Explore Cappadocia’s hidden underground cities and magical landscapes

I recently visited Cappadocia, and it was like stepping into a fairytale! The landscape is filled with strange, tall rock formations called 'fairy chimneys.' I explored an underground city where people used to hide from enemies; it was huge and a bit spooky but very interesting. Above ground, I saw beautiful rock-cut churches with old paintings inside. The views from the hot air balloon ride at sunrise were breathtaking, with the sun casting a golden glow over the rocky valleys. Cappadocia is truly a magical place!

Disney Land Hong Kong Travel Blog

 Welcome to Disneyland! In April 2024, my family and I had the most magical experience at this captivating theme park.

The kids were absolutely thrilled as they boarded on thrilling rides that made their hearts race and their laughter fill the air. Some of the rides were a little scary, but that only added to the excitement and made the experience even more memorable. We were also treated to spectacular shows that dazzled our senses and left us in awe. From colorful parades to enchanting performances, there was never a dull moment at Disneyland. Of course, no trip to Disneyland would be complete without indulging in delicious food and drinks. We savored tasty treats like cotton candy, popcorn, and churros, and cooled off with refreshing drinks to beat the heat.

While the prices were a bit steep, we felt that every penny was worth it for the incredible experience we had. The joy and laughter shared with my family made it a trip we will never forget. Overall, our visit to Disneyland was a magical adventure filled with thrills, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

One Day Macau Tour

 On April 2024 we visited Macau, Here, we had an amazing time exploring cool places! We visited the St. Paul Cathedral, where we saw old, beautiful buildings and learned about history.

Street near St. Paul Cathedral

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Macanese cuisine, from savory egg tarts to succulent seafood delicacies, each bite a culinary delight to be savored together.

Egg Tart

The iconic Londoner Hotel, a majestic homage to the timeless allure of British charm. From its elegant facades to the bustling streets adorned with red telephone booths, every corner whispered tales of London's rich heritage.

Next, we stepped into the enchanting world of magic and wonder at the Harry Potter Museum, where spells and potions came to life amidst a treasure trove of memorabilia and interactive exhibits. Imagination soared as we wandered through the halls of Hogwarts, casting spells and discovering the secrets of the wizarding world.

Inside Harry Potter Museum

 

Finally, we ventured into the digital realm of TeamLab, where art and technology converged to create a mesmerizing playground of light and color. The immersive installations sparked wonder in the eyes of our little ones, as they danced amidst digital landscapes and lost themselves in a world of pure imagination.

TeamLab Macau

As our adventure in Macau drew to a close, we carried with us memories of moments shared and wonders discovered., each experience a testament to the magic of travel and the boundless possibilities that await those who like to explore.

https://youtu.be/ARs9lqxWiWw

My Travel Diary - HONG KONG

We started our journey from Kochi to Delhi, and then from Delhi to Hong Kong. When we arrived at Hong Kong International Airport, we went straight to Lantau Island to see the Big Buddha. We left our luggage at the airport storage and took a taxi to Tung Chung.

 It's a good idea to get an Octopus card as soon as you arrive at the HK airport. It's cheaper to travel around HK with the Octopus card, whether by tram, bus, metro, or even the airport express. Taxis can be a bit pricey. As an Indian, I found HK to be a bit expensive.

 

Man no Temple at Sheung Wan street in Hong Kong

On our first day, we visited Lantau Island. Then we went to Hong Kong and stayed at Tsim Sha Tsui situated at southern Kowloon, in a hotel called Holiday Inn, which was in a convenient location. Taxis, metro trains, and buses are available almost everywhere in Hong Kong. There are food stalls and shops selling daily essentials on the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui.

 In Tsim Sha Tsui, we explored attractions like Lego Land, walked along Victoria Harbour, and watched the spectacular Symphony of Lights night show. We also visited the Avenue of Stars and the Science Museum. The next day, we took a hop-on-hop-off bus ride. We then went to Victoria Peak on a peak tram and visited the Hong Kong Zoo and Park, which was a fantastic experience.

Symphony of Lights at Victoria Harbour

Avenue of Stars of Victoria Harbour

 

Bruce Lee at Victoria Harbour

Hong Kong Zoo and Park

Victoria Peak View

A view from Victoria Peak

We couldn't explore the city more because my younger son, who is only six years old, was feeling homesick at times and wanted to go back to Kochi. But my elder son had a great time. We also spent two days in Macau and Disneyland. On the last day, I went shopping for myself and bought gifts for our friends and family. The Ladies Market was a fun place to bargain, and I got Hong Kong souvenirs, bags, and accessories at really cheap prices. Then I went to Granville Road, where I found good quality clothes and other items at reasonable prices. The next morning, my kids, husband, and I travelled back to Delhi and then from Delhi to Kochi.

Ladies Market on Tung Choi street at Mongkok

Mystical Lantau: Exploring Amidst Nature's Veil

On April 6th, 2024, Me, my husband and our two kids went to Lantau Island.  It is, nestled in the heart of Hong Kong's territory, is a captivating blend of natural splendor and cultural treasures. 

Boasting lush greenery, pristine beaches, and scenic hiking trails, it offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life. At its heart lies the iconic Tian Tan Buddha, a towering symbol of serenity and spirituality, surrounded by the serene ambiance of the Po Lin Monastery. 

How to reach Lantau Island?

We hired a taxi from Hong Kong International Airport to Tung Chung station. The fare was about 50 Hong Kong Dollars (HK$). Bus would be the cheapest but we didn't have the octopus card. An Octopus is an essential purchase in Hong Kong. It's a smart payment tool that allows you to travel and pay cash-free at over 180,000 acceptance points, covering an extensive range of public transport, dining, entertainment, shopping, and more. Below is the picture of an Octopus card.

Then we hired cable car, from Tung Chung to Lantau's Ngong Ping Village where the Big Buddha is located. The cable car costs around 200 HK$ person. If you go for crystal cable car then it costs around 300 HK$. Bus would be the cheapest one, but time taken by bus will be two hours approx. Cable cars would take around 20 minutes. 

It was a windy and rainy day, but the island was still beautiful. We saw the Big Buddha, which looked amazing even in the mist and rain. Then we visited the Po Lin Monastery, which was very peaceful. We also went to some museums and shops to stay dry and have fun. Whether immersing oneself in the island's natural beauty, delving into its rich history, or savoring local delicacies, Lantau Island promises an unforgettable journey filled with wonder and discovery.

 A word of caution to fellow traveler's: be sure to check weather conditions before boarding on your own Lantau Island adventure, for nature's whims may paint a different picture with every visit.