Lessons from Hongkong

It has been a while since I last travelled abroad and my recent vacation in Hongkong was a breath of fresh air to my seemingly busy schedule.

There were lot of 'firsts' in this family travel of ours. It was the first time that we travelled together as a family; first time that the kids boarded an airplane and went overseas; first time for all of us to see Hongkong (and Macau) and its amusement centers; and first time for us to see my two sisters' humble abode and workplace.The trip was generally tiring but exciting and fun.

Talking as a first timer, I would say that Hongkong is generally orderly and clean . I was amazed at their transport systems especially their MTR, a much better version of our LRT/MRT's combined. Their double-decker buses have well defined routes and stops and would not mind if there are passengers on board or none at all. Their parks and amusement centers are well maintained and refreshing in sight and in smell. Men and women in their business districts look neat and are properly dressed.

I have to admit that up to now, a week after the vacation, thinking of the sights of the place makes me feel envious and wanting to go back there. If only I could speak their language, I would really consider applying for a job and stay there.

Indeed, it is only when you see other places that you realize how good or bad our country is.

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