Ava’s Lucky Layover

This is my story about my layover in Hong Kong!

After 14+ hours of operating the flight from Toronto to Hong Kong, I’d most look forward to checking-in at the hotel at Cathay City. I’d get the chance to enjoy a long slumber, often just as long as the flight! Cathay City is the headquarters of Cathay Pacific that includes a crew hotel, office buildings, a flight training centre with a safety training school. To access Cathay City all patrons must be employees and crew who are required to show electronic passes.

With a two-day layover, I had plenty of time to explore Hong Kong after a good night’s rest. One of the first things I’d do is savor local dim sum which is a meal of small dishes served with tea. It’s an integral part of Hong Kong’s food culture so they know how to make it well. My favorite staples are shrimp dumplings (har gow), steamed barbeque pork buns (char siu bao), deep fried dumplings (hahm sui gohk) and egg tarts (daan taat). With food cravings satisfied, I’d look forward to visiting the shopping malls and night markets for clothes, cosmetics and snacks. The main shopping sites are Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei. Shopping in Hong Kong is so popular because there is no sales tax or import taxation. I’d end the day with a relaxing massage treatment at a spa in the city to prepare for the flight home the next day!

~ Ava