Hong Kong, Part 2

My school trip continues in this post, Hong Kong, Part 2. If you missed Part 1, then check it out before continuing here. :)

Day 6: This was our "travel" day. Disney is located on the outskirts of Hong Kong, so we rented a bus and visited two spots on the way. First up was a park and monastery. They were so beautiful and tranquil that it was hard to believe we were still in Hong Kong!

I love the contrast of the skyscrapers behind.

Next was 10,000 Buddha's Monastery. A short hike up this hill takes you past 10,000 buddhas, which is incredible enough on its own, but every single one is distinct! We also enjoyed a vegetarian lunch at the monastery's restaurant up top.

Backpack, sunglasses, steps... this reminds me of my Camino days!

The video below gives you a peek of what it's like. This spot is a must-visit when you go to Hong Kong!

Changing completely from the tranquil and introspective moods inspired by the temples, we once again boarded our bus, this time to arrive at our destination: The Disneyland Hotel.

Complete with hedge maze. Of course.

Here's where I slept, mamá!

Detail on my bed :)

After a little rest and a lot of squealing over the rooms (students and chaperones alike), we dolled up and headed to our character dinner. Our meal was interrupted by Mickey, Minnie, Pluto and Duffy (a character unique to Hong Kong Disney) and photo-taking opportunities ensued.

Group shot with Duffy

Pluto gives great hugs!

After some playtime outside in the hedge maze, we encouraged the students to settle in and sleep for Disneyland the next day. Who says a chaperone's job is easy?!? ;)

Day 7: Here we go, the first full day at Disneyland! We began with a 3 hour class, led by a teacher from Disney's Youth Education Series. The class was interactive, included going on rides (!) and focused on respecting cultures, which is a key part of Hong Kong's story.

Main Street at Hong Kong Disney!

Wait, am I back in Arizona? No, this is scenery by the runaway train ride.

The Lion King Musical

Mystic Manor - haunted house experience.

After the class we had lunch, went on rides and explored the park, staying until the fireworks show signalled closing. Many of the students stated that it was the "perfect day."

Day 8: Day 2 at the happiest place on earth. Today was our big day to dig in at the park, for the students to complete their photo challenge and to just have fun!

My co-chaperone and roomie for the week shows off her breakfast!

R2D2 and me!

Chewbacca!

Day 9: Though it was our last day, it was still a big one. We had the entire day, as our flight didn't depart until late Saturday evening. We began with breakfast at Disney's Hollywood Hotel, which included more photo opps, this time with Chef Mickey.

Chaperones and Mickey!

Group shot!

We all frolicked in the grass and sun (the temps reminded me of San Diego ~ perfect!) and then walked back to our hotel along the waterfront path.

After a little more last minute packing and a brief rest in the rooms, it was time for our 10-course lunch, complete with charger plates.

And then onto Disney Dim Sum! In this interactive class we learned how to make two different characters. It was fun to see all of the students so engaged and how everyone's creations turned out slightly different. 

Working hard

I made Chicken Little!

What 40 travellers' luggage looks like...

We enjoyed our last day on the Disney properties, but as the light started to slant in that late afternoon way, it was time to board the bus one last time and return to the airport. All went smoothly and I jokingly told my students "hasta mañana" as we bid goodbye at the Yangon International Airport. It was too true... we had school the next day!

Time to head home!

Although we were all a little tired that first week back, the students seemed genuinely delighted with their experience and I count myself as very fortunate to be able to travel as part of my job. 

Til next time!

Just Finished Reading:
Whisky Tango Foxtrot by Kim Barker. I watched the film with family over the holidays and after reading a few articles about the journalist's work in reporting in Afghanistan and Pakistan, I was intrigued to know more. The movie and book are quite different, but I recommend both!

The Elephanta Suite by Paul Theroux. This book is really three short novelas in one cover, though the thread that binds all three stories together is that at some point the characters all stay in the Elephanta Suite, a hotel room in Bombay. A fascinating peak into India and a psychological journey through the characters' experiences there. I'm passing my copy onto a friend who is going to India during spring break, but if any of this sounds interesting to you, then I think you would like this one.