Just two short weeks from this very moment, I will be on a plane headed east for the biggest adventure I've ever decided to pursue! I'll be flying to San Francisco, then on a direct flight to Hong Kong. I find it thrilling that this will take me farther away from home than I've ever been before! In my excitement, I find myself hungry for information about China. I've researched and tried my share of Asian influenced recipes. I've learned that "How are you?" in Chinese, literally translated, means "Have you had your rice today?" I've even borrowed Cantonese language tapes from the library, hoping to prepare for bartering with marketers over the price of cilantro.
Still, I have no idea what to expect. Brett tells me I'll get goosebumps and that the first few hours are unforgettable. In all my neurotic planning, I find one thing abundantly clear; I continue to find myself ignorant. And so I'll go with an open and curious mind.
Tai Po with be home base for the trip. On the map below, look to the darker line. There is a bay on the eastern side of the New Territories. There you will find Tai Po. I will learn more about travel to Kowloon and Downtown Hong Kong.
And so it is with these thoughts that I introduce you to my Hong Kong blog. (I must credit Vanessa with the clever URL "Emily" within the words Hong and Kong- aka "Emily IN Hong Kong). I plan to record as many cultural misunderstandings and snafus I get myself into. And perhaps more importantly, I want to show pictures of what I'm experiencing. I hope you will comment and let me know what you're all up to while I'm away.
To my those who may not know how to comment on my blog: Click the "comment" button below, which will show a new screen where all other comments are posted. Type in the text box and select "Post Comment." (Or, you can always ask a super-savvy grandchild!)
Speaking of comments...I welcome your packing suggestions (especially to those of you who've survived 14-hour flights!)
love, love, love!
Mom said to always pack enough clean underwear!
ReplyDeleteso so so so so so so excited for you!
ReplyDeletei just remembered that before i went to france, i read a book called Culture Shock: France, which told you all about "what to expect," and how basic things like social interaction differ from here at home.
OH LOOK!
http://www.amazon.com/Culture-Shock-Hong-Kong/dp/1558681671
Contrary to popular belief, I have heard (from VERY credible sources) that China is actually just like Enumclaw, both socially and fashionably. My best advice is to become fluent with popular country music and pack plenty of suspenders and John Deere hats. China's best kept travel secret: If you speak with plenty of "twang" in your voice, even those who were not previously fluent in English will be able to understand you! I'm sure this credible advice will make your journey all the easier!
ReplyDeleteVanessa- I found "Culture Shock: Hong Kong!" And it's my planned in-flight reading. Thanks for the tip~ LOVE Em
ReplyDeleteDad-
ReplyDeleteI love you SweetestEM!
"Have fun storming the island!"
Emily, I'm so glad that you are there with Brett and that your flight was safe. And thanks for creating this blog so we can visit along with you. Don and I are looking forward to pictures!
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