Among the top reasons for this is that it's home to High West, atop which one can get some truly marvelous views, particularly on super high visibility days. But even on a western Hong Kong Island hike which didn't involve ascending that 494 meter high peak, there still can be plenty to see and enjoy, especially on a beautiful sunny, blue sky day which say another hiking buddy and I trek from Victoria Peak down to Aberdeen via Sections 1 and 2 of the Hong Kong Trail:-
I never thought I'd see a blue-tailed skink hanging out in plain view
of tourists on Victoria Peak but... may wonders never cease! ;b
One of those views of Hong Kong that feels like
it's worth many millions of dollars to see ;b
If you ever are on Victoria Peak, be sure to head out to
the relaxing pocket park on its northwestern side
There really are places in this part of Hong Kong
where one can feel like -- even if one actually isn't --
a long way away from civilization! :)
One of those Hong Kong butterflies that are more
triangular-shaped than one normally expect butterflies to be
High West doesn't look as angular when viewed from
the southeast as it does from other angles! :O
Aberdeen and Ap Lei Chau viewed close to hike's end
I think this bird has 'bed hair'! ;b
2 comments:
Hi Yvonne,
Thanks for introducing me to the Blue-Tailed Skink! According to Wikipedia's description of this extraordinary reptile, "When they become frightened, they have the ability to pop their tail off and it will continue to wiggle and distract their predator while they run away." Evolution is miraculous.
The clear view from the Peak in the second photo is perfect. According to your site and others I've read, the cooler months are no longer dependable for clear views, and it is frequently the warmer months which are less overcast.
I hope Hong Kong succeeds in lessening the air pollution. I've been reading Christine Loh online for years. With such a knowledgeable person in the government, I'm hopeful she and others can work through the system to improve the environment...In the future I hope Hong Kong doesn't become just another murky, polluted city in China.
Bill
Hi Bill --
You're welcome re the introduction -- and I have to say that I get a real kick out of spotting (and photographing) the different cool skinks I've seen in Hong Kong. :)
And yes, the warmer months usually have better visibility and way bluer skies than the cooler ones -- though most years, November is wonderful in terms of high visibility, blue skies AND cool weather.
Re your hopes that Christine Loh will make an impact. I admire her too but am not sure that one person, even her, will be able to make a notable difference in Hong Kong's government... though, of course, I'll be very happy if she proves me wrong!
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