More Lamma Island

I don't know if my surprise is a big factor in this, but I am finding Lamma Island incredibly beautiful and picture-worthy! If not for the fact that I'm being eaten alive by mosquitoes (the locals say that they like my new foreign blood :P), I'd want to stay here longer.

So I've been hiking around the island the past few days. I must be getting used to the heat because I walked around for almost 3 hours today, and the humidity isn't bothering me at all now. Lamma Island is quite hilly, and the trails often start at beaches and end on hilltops, so the views have been quite breathtaking in person. It doesn't quite translate on camera, but it definitely didn't stop me from trying!

I felt like I was an explorer trekking through the
jungle, getting glimpses of beautiful scenery
between the trees.

Of course, the sight of the gigantic power station dispels any notions
of being on undiscovered land. Pretty valley though, no?

And of course, all the trails were very civilized,
paved and marked clearly.

Seriously, this looked SO much more huge in person.

I think I ended up hiking about 300 feet up. Doesn't sound nearly
as impressive that way though.

View of another bay and village.

Rolling down the side of the mountain to get downhill is not an option.

And a view from below, on beach level. Extra large because it is extra gorgeous!

The water was surprisingly clear and clean!

My sea glass souvenir. Yes, I know it's just broken bits of beer
bottles that have been worn smooth from the ocean. It's still pretty!

This is 20 minutes from HK?!?!

So where am I now, to get some much-needed rest and relaxation? I'm currently surrounded by green trees and chirping birds. There are shaded hiking trails that lead to pretty mountain views. There is abundant seafood, and beautiful views to enjoy while eating it. And all this is just a short ferry ride from Hong Kong Island!

I am, of course, on one of the outer islands of Hong Kong. Lamma Island, specifically. I found an apartment share and booked a room for a few days to see what 'getting away from the HK bustle' was like. And you know, it's pretty darn nice!

I didn't expect such peacefulness near HK!

The place I'm staying at is about a 15 minute walk uphill in Yung Shue Wan village (榕樹灣). Getting there from the ferry with my luggage was one tiring, sweaty hike!

Oh, it gets steeper.

View of the power station towers as I head uphill.

So far, I'm really enjoying my time here. There's a nice mix of local tourists and expat vacationers, and everyone is very laid back. Local shops sell handmade items as well as imported souvenirs (seriously, I just saw that in Bangkok!), and there's lots to eat as well. The pace is completely different from Kowloon/HK Island... nobody is rushing anywhere!

I had to try it! Of course it doesn't compare to dad's version! :)

There's some hiking trails and beaches that I'm planning to see in the next few days. I love roaming around with no agenda!

This was dinner's accompanying view.  Gorgeous!