Random Junk

The thought that I am in Hong Kong still seems surreal, but then I leave my closet that they expect me to sleep in and say, "hey, there is nothing but Chinese people here." LOL. Quickly, I get knocked back into reality. It is so beautifully to truly be surrounded by another culture. Sure, my fellow Fulbrighters act as a wonderful safety net, but it is something intriguing about being the darkest thing on the block, you could find more color in Mountain Brook. I am loving it though, and I am sure that some of you have been waiting for a real update, pictures and all that.

Hong Kong Airport

I arrived tired and aching, but was too curious to care. I am an people watcher so I spent countless moments watching people while in the airport. After we all had gathered we hopped on a bus and headed for the Hong Kong Institute of Education (HKIEd), which took about an hour.

My room isn't the best of places, but I am not too picky. However, the view outside on my balcony makes up for the tightness of space. All of the following pictures were taken from my balcony.

As you can see, HKIEd was placed in a mountainous area, complete with hiking trails that my colleagues and I will explore once the temperature drops a little. Everywhere you go on this campus there is a magnificent scenery.

This is me early this morning talking to my boy Will on Skype. My good friend Will is in England at the moment (yes, all of my friends are movers and shakers), and will be most likely paying me a visit in the coming months.

To be more technical, orientation began today. We actually had a little session on Saturday, but we accomplished many task today. The most exciting part about today was that I opened a bank account where my living allowance will be deposited. WE received a tour of the campus earlier as well met some of the staff. Many people are very excited about our presence, since this is actually the first Fulbright program in Hong Kong, not to mention it may be the only university based one. Usually, one lives with a host family. In other words, we are truly trail blazers. We have gone into town a couple of times so far, but not into Hong Kong city. HKIEd is located in New Territories, while HOng Kong Island is about one hour south. If you want a better geography lesson consult a map (Sorry, I am actually a little sleepy while I am writing this). We have done some exploring in Tai Po and Shah Tin. In Shah Tin, there is a huge mall that was crowded and somewhat expensive. Tai Po is better as far as prices, and has more smaller shops. Sadly enough, we went to a pizza Hut in a Tai Po mall and it took us about 30 minutes to get the waitress to understand that we wanted two pizzas, one with cheese, and one half pepperoni and half chicken. I know, stupid Americans making things difficult.

Our Waitress was very nice and patient. She actually understood some English, otherwise we would probably had bits of eel on top of our pizza. We tipped her well for being so patient with us. So things are looking good so far. I know many of you are interested in what I will be doing, but I am still not too sure myself. When I know, I will let you know. I hope seeing my smile has put some of you at ease.