Among the popular tourist destinations in East Asia, close to Thailand, "Hong Kong Island" is undoubtedly on many people's travel lists. This Hong Kong trip wasn't even on my 2015 travel plan, but when I stumbled upon a Cathay Pacific flight promotion for a roundtrip ticket at 2480 baht (net), who could resist? I'm sure you won't find such a deal again in this lifetime, as the lowest price would be around 4000 baht or more. Lucky me, this Hong Kong trip became my first solo travel experience. I initially thought Taiwan would be my first solo adventure.

Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China

It is one of the most popular tourist destinations for Thai people who hope to visit this land at least once. But this time, I'm not here to play. This time, I'm serious about traveling to find something that may have been lost from the memories of many Thai tourists.

When it comes to Hong Kong, everyone's eyes and senses will think of a center of delicious food, a shopping paradise, and a massive island-wide sale, right? And when you mention Lantau Island, everyone will probably say in unison: Of course, there's Chek Lap Kok Airport, Hong Kong Disneyland, and the Big Buddha at Tian Tan, right? Now everyone might be wondering: So, what are you taking me to see?

Now I want everyone to close their eyes and erase the image of Hong Kong as a bustling metropolis, escaping the shopping, food, and other attractions in Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, and so on. Is there anywhere in Hong Kong that has a sense of the past, where we can search for the origins of this land? The answer is close to Hong Kong Airport. If so, follow me.

In Search of Hong Kong's Past!! 200 Years Ago

Tai O Fishing Village

At Suvarnabhumi Airport (the pride of Thailand)

My trip to Hong Kong (in August 2015) with Cathay Pacific Airways at Suvarnabhumi Airport, the pride of all Thai people. On this trip, the plane will fly to Hong Kong Island at 5:10 AM.

After boarding the plane, I slept and waited for the beautiful flight attendant to serve me food. Then I slept all the way to the airport.

Let me take a look at the flight route map (guess how many countries I visited on my 2015 trip). I guarantee they're all on here.

After a long sleep, I finally arrived in Hong Kong (this is my first time visiting Hong Kong). I was excited to see the many signs, and it just so happened to coincide with the island-wide sale extravaganza.

This is a photo of the bus routes to various parts of Hong Kong. I took it to share with everyone.

The bus I will be taking is the S64 line to TUNG CHUNG STATION. Let's take a look at the atmosphere at Hong Kong Airport in the early morning.

As soon as the S64 bus arrived, I went straight to the second floor and sat in the front seat without further ado. I was ready to capture the morning view of Hong Kong. The clear blue sky was so refreshing. Then, I arrived at TUNG CHUNG STATION.

I then walked into the City Gate shopping mall and crossed the street to catch the number 11 bus to the Tai O Fishing Village.

The picture above shows bus route 11 (which goes to the TAI O fishing village) will stop at the front bus, while the bus behind is route 23, which goes to the Ngong Ping village (not to Thewet).

Traveling to Tai O Fishing Village (Lantau Island)

• Take bus number 11 (at City Gate shopping mall) and ride to the end of the line.

- Bus fare (as shown in the picture above)

On the first day of my arrival in Hong Kong, I decided to follow my heart and explore the city's roots. I have always believed that during our youth, when we are still full of energy, we should seek out the natural beauty and historical roots of each place we visit. I believe that eating and shopping can be done at any time in life, but nature may not wait for us when time changes.

The journey from TUNG CHUNG (near Citygate Mall) to Tai O Fishing Village takes about 1.30 hours. As you travel, you will be greeted by natural views and tranquility. Finally, the bus will reach the end of the line at the village. The sign that you have arrived is a clear welcome sign.

The sky cleared over the Tai O fishing village, revealing the vibrant colors of the mountains, sky, and seawater, creating a refreshing contrast. After enjoying the refreshing scenery for a while, the sun began to beat down. But since we were already there, we decided to brave the Hong Kong sun. From here on, let the quality of the photos tell the story, hehe (focusing on the images).

Tai O Fishing Village

TAI O FISHING VILLAGE

Additional Information

• This village is so beautiful in its own way that it has been nicknamed the "Venice of Hong Kong". In the past, this village was called Tangka Village because it was home to the Tangka people.

The atmosphere of the Tai O village is similar to the Mahachai or Chonburi area, isn't it? As soon as I entered, I smelled the saltiness and it reminded me of Thailand.

A school of small fish in the Taiok River swims on a bright day.

The Tai O Fishing Village, with the village itself divided into two sections by the river, is connected by a blue steel bridge. From the beginning of the bridge, if you turn right for a short distance, you will find a shop selling dried seafood by the roadside.

The boat tour takes you around the Tai O fishing village, including a chance to see the local dolphins. It's a shame I didn't get to go on it, but I'll be sure to review it next time I'm in Hong Kong.

The houses in Tai O Village are typically built on stilts (as shown in the picture), which is a common sight in this village.

I was tired from walking, so I stopped to buy a cup of lime tea to quench my thirst. I haven't eaten anything yet, so I'll save it for dessert at Ngong Ping. Mango, mango.

After enjoying the atmosphere of the Tai O fishing village, I thought it was time to move on to the Ngong Ping Village. The bus stop is clearly visible, located right at the entrance of the village.

The bus from Tai O Fishing Village to Ngong Ping Village can be taken on bus route 21, which takes only 15 minutes. Here is the bus schedule for route 21. After that, walk to the bus stop and wait for the bus.

The bus finally arrived. Taking the bus in Hong Kong is convenient no matter where you are, just tap your EasyCard (oops, that's Taiwan, Hong Kong is Octopus, I've been reviewing Taiwan so much I'm a bit confused haha). Then the bus took us to Ngong Ping. That's all for my review of Hong Kong's trip down memory lane for now.

The Hidden Gem of Hong Kong: A Glimpse into the Past

Close your eyes and forget the Hong Kong you know – the bustling streets, the endless shopping, the delicious food. Instead, imagine a place of tranquility, a window into the past that reveals the true essence of Hong Kong. This is the story of a village that has stood strong against the tide of time, preserving its unique identity amidst the rapid changes of the modern world.

Venture beyond the city's clamor and discover a hidden gem, a place where time seems to stand still. Here, you'll find a glimpse into the lives of Hong Kong's people in days gone by. The village's traditional charm remains untouched, offering a stark contrast to the fast-paced world outside.

Come, explore this hidden treasure and uncover a different side of Hong Kong. Experience the echoes of the past that resonate in the present. (Stay tuned for my next adventure, where I'll take you on a boat tour of this captivating village. Don't miss it!)

For now, farewell. Thank you.

Stay tuned for the next review: "Hiking the Dragon's Back"