A view from the top

The Peak is Hong Kong's leading tourist attraction. At the top of The Peak, is Peak Tower, a wok-shaped building that many claim is the most photographed sight in Hong Kong.

After spending the day at Hong Kong University for a series of lectures on education and society in Hong Kong, the group celebrated with dinner at the Peak Overlook. The Peak is the highest part of Hong Kong. Located on Hong Kong Island, it provides the best view of Hong Kong. It was Gail's birthday so the group took the Peak Tram to the highest part of the city where we started the evening with some shopping before dinner.

The view was spectacular. We were able to see a 360-degree view of the city during the day, and again at night. We got to the top of the Peak on a cable-pulled tram that has been operating since 1888. It was facinating to see the beautiful scenery. At the Peak Overlook Restaurant, we enjoyed a delicious non-Chinese-food dinner. I had lamb with baked potato. Gail treated us to birthday cake and champagne. She also had small gifts for us as well. Gail wanted to be sure she purchased the cake as it is tradition in France - where she lived for several years - before returning

The Peak's wok rocks. So do the spectacular views from the rooftop observation aera.

to teach French in the Washington, DC area. The food was great, but the company was the best. We had a wonderful time talking about our adventures during the past five weeks. We also took the time to thank Dick, our leader, and give him a small token of our appreciation.

We have one day left in Hong Kong before we begin the journey home. We are unclear what we are doing for sure on Friday, but keep checking for the details. And Friday will be our first full free day since leaving San Francisco!

The view from The Peak at night. I always thought Chicago's skyline was hard to beat, until I saw this.

Comments

[Debbie Gallas]

OMG -- This view is absolutely breathtaking! I'm with you -- I love driving into the city (Chicago -- being "the city"); I can't even imagine seeing this one in person!

[Anne Bodman]

Flora,
I guess I've been "lurking" on your blog for the last few weeks and enjoying second-hand your trip to China very much. I want to thank you for helping me visualize so clearly a lot of your experience. I have especially loved your descriptions of the students you have met and the Food with Heads that has been served at your banquets. Your students at home are lucky to have such an enthusiastic mentor.

By the way, Professor Dick is my kid brother. I talked with him yesterday, and I know your journey has been very intense but that he has enjoyed being with your group very much. Good luck to you back in Indiana, and thanks for making my hot and dry South Dakota summer much more fun. Anne Bodman