Category: Uncategorized

An Unplanned Getaway to Petawawa: Halloween Parties, Hiking Trails, and Unexpected Adventures

November 1st, 2024

Sometimes the best trips are the ones you don’t plan. This past weekend, I found myself on an impromptu adventure to Petawawa, a small town that’s big on charm. From a Halloween party to hiking in Algonquin, and a dash of spontaneous driving attempts, it was a weekend I won’t forget.

It all started with a rideshare to Ottawa, where I met a fellow passenger—a fresh graduate Bangladeshi engineer. It’s always nice to meet someone from home, especially when they’re just starting out in their career. Our conversation made the journey feel shorter, and by the time I reached Ottawa, I was already in a good mood. My friend Sarah picked me up, and we were off to Petawawa.

We reached Petawawa around 1 a.m., but instead of heading straight to her place, we went directly to the town’s most popular club BLVD, where a Halloween party was in full swing. It was surreal to walk into a room filled with people dressed in all sorts of spooky, funny, and creative costumes, dancing the night away. Though we were both exhausted, it didn’t take long for us to join in. In a crowd of lively twenty-somethings, Sarah and I might have looked like ghosts ourselves—barely hanging on after a long day—but we danced until we couldn’t anymore.

The next morning started on a relaxing note with a good breakfast, exactly what we needed to recharge. By noon, we decided to explore Algonquin Park and hit the Track and Tower Trail. This trail is beautiful, but it’s also challenging, with plenty of ups and downs. Tree roots and rocks covered in fallen leaves made it hard to predict our footing, and it was muddy, adding an extra layer of difficulty. Sarah was taking it slow, and even though she kept encouraging me to go ahead, I couldn’t just leave her behind. So we stuck together, making the journey longer but also more memorable. The sun was setting as we finished, and I nearly twisted my ankle a couple of times navigating the tricky terrain, but we made it out before darkness completely settled in.

But the real adventure was still waiting for us. Just a few minutes after getting back on the road, Sarah stopped at a roadside washroom in Algonquin. She took longer than expected, and when she returned, she asked if I could drive. The problem? I’d only had a few driving lessons, and her vehicle wasn’t just any car—it was a truck. And we were on a highway! But with no other choice, I hopped into the driver’s seat, trying to remember which pedal was the gas and which was the brake. After a nerve-wracking half-hour, Sarah felt well enough to take over, and we made our way to a nearby tavern.

The tavern was cozy, decorated for Halloween with neighborhood folks dressed up for the occasion. We had a warm meal and enjoyed some music, soaking in the festive atmosphere. By the time we returned home, we were both ready to collapse.

The next day, we took things slow. A lazy brunch followed by a relaxing soak in the hot tub felt like heaven after the previous day’s adventures. Later, we visited the Petawawa Military Museum, which was a fascinating dive into the history and sacrifices of Canadian military personnel. The exhibits gave us a lot to think about, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the lives dedicated to serving the country.

After a quick lunch, Sarah took me to some lookout points around Petawawa. The views of the river were stunning, though the cold wind made it hard to fully enjoy them. There was a quaint café at one of the lookout points, so we grabbed ice cream coffees and rushed back to the car, laughing as we escaped the chill.

Finally, it was time to head back to Ottawa. After packing my bag, my rideshare arrived to take me to a sports bar near IKEA in Ottawa, where all the youngsters seemed to gather. I met one of my closest friends, Ashiq, who came by to say hi. We caught up briefly, and he saw me off at the bus counter nearby around midnight.

By the time I was on the bus back to Toronto, I was filled with gratitude. The trip may have been short, but it was packed with unforgettable moments. Nothing beats an unplanned adventure with friends, and this weekend was a reminder of that.
A Journey Through Agawa Canyon: Nature, New Friends, and Unexpected Anxiety

October 21st, 2024

The day started early, far earlier than I’m used to, with a ride share booked in the dark hours of the morning. My nerves were already on edge, as the unfamiliarity of the journey ahead lay thick in the air. I had one goal: make it to the Agawa Canyon train on time and savor the adventure. Little did I know how much more this day would offer.

The Agawa Canyon train itself was a spectacle, a relic of comfort and old-world charm. As the train snaked its way through dense forests and towering cliffs, I marveled at the sweeping views that seemed to be pulled straight from a postcard. The fall foliage was in full bloom, with shades of gold, amber, and fiery reds painting the landscape in an unforgettable palette. As we rumbled toward the canyon, I found myself sitting near three couples, all of them lovely in their own way.

Two of these couples were celebrating their wedding anniversaries, and it was a peculiar coincidence that it happened to be my parents’ anniversary on the same day too. This realization created an instant bond. The couple right beside me was young, perhaps still freshly navigating life’s early chapters, but they had a warmth and kindness that touched me deeply. There was something about them – they radiated empathy, as if they could sense I was traveling solo. They took me under their wing, quite literally treating me like their own child, making sure I wasn’t left alone.

When the train finally stopped at the Agawa Canyon, it was as if we’d entered a living painting. The crisp air filled my lungs as we embarked on a hike together, the young couple leading the way. We reached a towering staircase – over 300 steps, a daunting task – but the promise of the lookout point kept us going. Step after step, the excitement grew.

Finally, we reached the summit. The view was nothing short of breathtaking. Below us, the Agawa Canyon spread out in all its grandeur, the river winding through it like a shimmering ribbon. The surrounding hills were ablaze with autumn colors, and the serenity of the place was palpable. For a while, we stood in silence, simply soaking in the beauty of the moment. It was one of those rare times when nature renders you speechless.

The hike back down felt lighter, the thrill of accomplishment still buzzing in our veins. As we boarded the train to head back, the sense of camaraderie with my new friends made the journey even more special.

After we returned, I strolled down the boardwalk, watching as the sky transformed into a vivid canvas of pinks, oranges, and purples. The sunset mirrored the tranquility I felt within, each passing minute a reminder of the beauty of the world. The reflection of the fiery sky in the calm waters was mesmerizing – it felt like time had slowed down just for me to savor that peaceful moment.

Returning to the motel, I was exhausted but content, knowing the day had given me more than I had expected. But as the night grew darker, so did my anxiety. I had an early flight to catch for work the next morning, and the ride share I had booked wasn’t responding. Panic started to set in. What if I missed my flight? In a rush, I booked another ride, hoping it would arrive in time. As fate would have it, both drivers showed up at my motel at the same time. A fitting end to an eventful day, I suppose.

That night, as I boarded my flight, my mind wandered back to the canyon, to the couples I had met, to the stairs I had climbed, and to the stunning views that made everything else seem trivial. I smiled, grateful for the journey, both the physical one and the one within.
From Setbacks to Serendipity: My Adventure in Sault Ste. Marie

October 14th, 2024

It had been two long years since I traveled anywhere, all thanks to the pandemic. Even my San Francisco trip got canceled, making it the sixth canceled trip in a row. So, I finally decided to break the streak and head to Sault Ste. Marie to catch the fall colors in Agawa Canyon.

But after two years of not traveling, I must have lost my edge. When I arrived at the Porter Airlines counter, the agent told me my health card had expired a month ago, and my driver’s license had been expired for a year. The only valid ID I had was my passport, and it was sitting at home. To top it off, I had just 30 minutes to check in.

In true James Bond fashion, I dashed home, grabbed my passport, and was back at the counter with two minutes to spare—mission accomplished!

On the plane, I sat next to a lady, and we spent the entire time chatting about travel. For some reason, she was fascinated by the fact that I was traveling alone just to see the fall colors. She was so kind and even shared a local ride-sharing app that I wish I’d known about earlier—I had already booked an expensive ride to my motel since there was no Uber in Sault Ste. Marie. Her thoughtfulness really touched me.

When I arrived at the motel, I found out I had accidentally booked only two nights instead of three. To make matters worse, I had to pay double the price for booking that extra night on the same day, all for a not-so-great motel. The only upside was its prime location, which was exactly where I wanted to be.

My brain doesn’t fully wake up until I’ve had my black coffee in the morning. Unfortunately, the Starbucks near my motel was closed, but their drive-thru was still open. So, there I was, standing at the drive-thru, yelling my order, but the auto-prompt wouldn’t recognize me. Just then, a kind woman pulled up in her car and asked what kind of coffee I wanted. Her sweet gesture really touched me. I even offered to pay for both of us, but she smiled and said, “Happy Thanksgiving!” I genuinely felt grateful.

Later that day, I visited the local aircraft museum called Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, and it was an absolute highlight of my trip. From the moment I stepped in, I was transported back in time. The museum was filled with vintage planes, each with its own history and story. Walking around, I felt a deep connection to the past, imagining what it must have been like to fly in those incredible machines. I even got to sit in a cockpit, and I couldn’t stop smiling—it was like being a kid again, full of wonder and excitement. The whole experience was both fun and inspiring, reminding me of the incredible progress of aviation. By the time I left, I was grinning from ear to ear, having had much more fun than I anticipated.

After the museum, I headed to the historic lock nearby. Standing there, watching the massive gates open and close, was mesmerizing. The power and precision of the lock system were impressive, and I couldn’t help but admire how it all worked together. The peaceful surroundings of the water, the quiet hum of the machinery, and the sight of boats passing through made me feel like I had stumbled onto a hidden gem. It was a perfect, calming way to round off my day, and I left feeling connected not only to the history of the place but also to the beauty of the simple, natural moments I had experienced.

While visiting the lock, I met a lady who was relaxing nearby. We struck up a conversation and ended up chatting for a while. She told me she was concerned about my safety since I was traveling alone, and to my surprise, she offered to take me for a hike on the other side of the lock. As we walked, she shared the history of the area, telling fascinating stories about its past. After the hike, she even insisted on driving me back to my motel because she didn’t feel comfortable leaving me alone. I was absolutely spellbound by her kindness. It was such a heartwarming experience to meet someone so thoughtful and generous.
Breaking Free: My Unforgettable Journey to Thailand

September 3rd, 2024

A girl’s life begins with a rule- what she can do, what she can’t do. Being an only child I also couldn’t go beyond that. What ever I did, wherever I have been, every time my parents were always with me. Even I was never allowed to join in any study tour with my university mates. Recently I have passed 26 springs of my life. The next phase of my life is supposed to be taken care of by someone who will be socially committed to me. Inshallah he will keep his commitment through his wholehearted love. Though one thing has been poking me for the last few times- what about me? What about my life? Have I lived it?

Here I would like to add something that I have always believed: Whatever we want from the bottom of our heart, Almighty Allah always gives it to us. And that actually happened. I don’t know when I had Asfara & Simin in my dream. We just decided and went for it- only three single girls on a foreign trip and destination called THAILAND!!!

Spanning my 14 generations, nobody came back from the airport. I had to! Because it was none other than GMG Airlines! Despite a lengthy 10-hour delay the flight couldn’t take away our enthusiasm of having fun. Even in the immigration counter! Rest of the passengers couldn’t get the chance to think about fear while the plane was taking off due to our loud screaming. Yup! We made it with a bang.

We landed in stunning Subornobhumi Airport around 2am. Then we were off to Pattaya. We knew that it was exotic but we didn’t know to what extent!! We realized that, when we took a walk in the weird Walking Street at 6am. Oh! Some unforgettable scenes there will remain with us for the rest of our lives. But actually I felt bad to read the unsaid lines of their eyes, the girl’s eyes. And there were nothing but sorrow.

The real trip started with the speedboat towards coral island. On the way, we stopped for Paragliding. That was on my list of dreams to fulfill. Despite a height-phobia, I was surprisingly okay at flying in the sky. Around 200-ft above the sea I thanked Allah for giving me this amazing opportunity. The experience was just beyond any words.

The best part of the sea was water: clean and light green in color. The speedboat journey was something else. The coral island was just like what we used to see in the Hollywood movies. I couldn’t stop myself from jump into the water to swim. I am always very passionate about swimming and then I had the best one in such a beautiful environment.

After returning from the island we had lunch and after that I slept till evening. Around that time, Thai Massage was on top of my to-do list then. I found it just beside our hotel Beverly Plaza. OMG!!! The full body Thai massage made me surrender myself to it! The masseuse was outstanding. And the pleasure was simply out of world. Yes! I would say- pleasure

We sat beside the swimming pool for a long time after dinner. The night was so cozy, so quite, so relaxing. In that time we were truly ourselves, wholeheartedly.

The next morning we were off to Bangkok. Bangkok has given us nothing but to feel the lifelines. It’s a city where you would like to live. The life was so smooth there. It seemed like we spread our wings there and nobody were around to stop us. We literally flew there.

From one place to the other: so many things to buy, so much to see. We used to be busy till 12am. The next day was hair re-bonding day. Yes! We got new looks!!! After coming back from MBK, we went for Pat-pong night market. We didn’t know that the place was famous for Go-Go-Bars. However, we were stunned to see the long legs of the girls!! How could they maintain!!!

Around midnight, we went for another body massage. That was not so amazing although my moan of pleasure with every press irritated others.

As it was our last night in Thailand, it was still young to us.

We sat on the roadside cocktail bar just in front of our hotel named Ambassador. It was a time when we fully opened our hearts and put them on the table. I would say that was the moment of the trip. We were also feeling sad that this trip would soon end.

The trip ended with the pain of another delayed flight. But I had a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Those five days were my lifetime’s asset. I would love to go back there again and again, not live only my own life, but to live the rest of my life.

PS- I wrote this write up in 2010.
Banff Hates Me! But the Feeling is Mutual

September 2nd, 2024

Let me tell you, Banff and I have a complicated relationship. For three consecutive years, I’ve planned a picture-perfect trip there, only to cancel every single time. But anyone who knows me knows I’m as stubborn as a mule with a grudge. So, once again, I set my sights on Banff, determined to catch the sunrise at Lake Louise on my way to Las Vegas. Ambitious? Absolutely. Especially since I don’t drive.

December 24, 2022—two days before Toronto Pearson Airport decided to have its luggage meltdown—WestJet did what WestJet does best: delay my flight by a casual 2-3 hours. By the time I stumbled into Calgary Airport, it was 9 p.m., and I was ready to drop. But no, I had a pre-booked shuttle to Banff to catch. I arrived at my hostel around noon (yes, it felt like noon), during one of the heaviest snowfalls Canada has ever seen.

Now, you’d think I’d be used to winter by now, but no. I learned there’s no Uber in Banff—shocking, I know. And even the taxis were apparently on vacation until 8 or 9 a.m. Great. I had planned to call an Uber and glide smoothly into my sunrise adventure, but instead, I spent the night tossing, turning, and contemplating my life choices, all while my body screamed in pain from the journey.

The next morning, after a dramatic internal debate that would make Shakespeare proud, I braved the public transit system. With my backpack and carry-on in tow, I trudged through what felt like miles of snow to the bus stop. After waiting for what seemed like an eternity, the bus finally arrived, only for me to realize it was cashless. Cue the mad dash to the ticket machine, decked out in a winter jacket, two bags, and the grace of a waddling penguin. By the time I caught my breath and reboarded, the bus sat there for another 20 minutes. Why did I even run?

But the fun didn’t stop there. After a bus change and being dropped off on a road next to Lake Louise, I bolted through knee-high snow, dragging my carry-on behind me like a stubborn child. When I finally reached the frozen lake, the sight of the sunrise over the snow-capped mountains made every ounce of pain worth it. It was just me, minus 21 degrees, and the most breathtaking view you can imagine.

After freezing my toes off, I decided it was time for breakfast at the Fairmont Lake Louise. At first, they tried to turn me away—something about not being a guest—but who can say no to this face? So, I enjoyed a breakfast that felt like a feast, and the view through the massive windows was so stunning, I just kept eating to prolong the experience.

Then, disaster struck. When I went to collect my luggage for the shuttle back to Calgary, the receptionist casually mentioned that my shuttle was actually booked from the Banff Fairmont, not the Lake Louise Fairmont. My heart sank as I realized I had less than three hours to make my connecting flight to Vegas. In a panic, I did what any rational person would do: I booked a $650 CAD limousine. Merry Christmas to me!

The limo driver, bless his heart, decided to lecture me on working Christmas Day because of my poor planning. I smiled, nodded, and in my mind, I was hurling him out the window like a villain in a movie.

Calgary, you may hate me, but I’m not giving up. Until next time.
Hanoi Hustle and Ha Long Bay Chill: A Tale of Two Travels

June 7th, 2024

Hanoi is a city that hits you hard – a sensory overload of honking scooters, exotic smells, and ancient buildings with faded grandeur. The narrow streets of the Old Quarter are a maze of colorful shops and friendly faces. It’s a city alive with history and buzzing with modern energy.

But this bustling city wasn’t all I craved on my Vietnamese adventure. I was also yearning for a relaxing escape, and Ha Long Bay beckoned with its emerald waters and towering limestone pillars. So, after a whirlwind exploration of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, I hopped on a pre-dawn boat ride towards this natural marvel.

Stepping onto the Stellar of the Seas cruise ship was like entering another world. The honking traffic was replaced by the calming sound of waves lapping against the hull. The crew’s warm smiles were inviting, and my room was amazing – a comfy haven with a stunning balcony view of the bay.

This wasn’t just any cruise; it was a luxurious boutique experience. But luxury wasn’t the only thing on the menu. Adventure awaited!

Onboard the cruise, I met some amazing people, including a friendly couple from Australia, Stuart and Tina. We instantly clicked and became adventure buddies. Together, we explored the hidden coves and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay by kayak. Paddling past the giant limestone cliffs felt like being in another world. We shared stories and laughs, and even discovered a secret beach! I even gravitated towards the Stellar of the Seas’ swimming pool, a perfect spot to cool off and soak in the incredible scenery.

The mornings on the cruise were a perfect blend of relaxation and rejuvenation. After our morning adventures, we’d refuel with a delicious breakfast buffet – a symphony of fresh fruits, steaming noodles, and fluffy pancakes that fueled us for the day’s adventures.

As the day drew to a close, we indulged in a feast for the senses. The dinner buffet on the cruise deck was overflowing with fresh seafood, fragrant curries, and melt-in-your-mouth desserts. Under the starlit sky the gentle sway of the ship and the twinkling lights on the water creating a magical ambience. Live music filled the air, adding a touch of romance to the evening as we sipped cocktails and shared stories with newfound friends.

Saying farewell to Ha Long Bay was bittersweet. We disembarked from the Stellar of the Seas, carrying with us not just photographs, but a treasure trove of memories – the majestic limestone cliffs, the emerald water reflecting the sky, the camaraderie with fellow travelers, and the unparalleled tranquility of this special place.

Ha Long Bay wasn’t just a destination; it was an experience that etched itself onto my soul, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that awaits in the world.
A Coastal Affair: My Nha Trang Adventure

June 2nd, 2024

In the heart of Vietnam, there lies a coastal paradise called Nha Trang, where the sea kisses the sky, and adventure dances on the horizon. My journey to Nha Trang began with a plane ride that painted the coastline in hues of turquoise and emerald, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

Arriving at Cam Ranh International Airport, the warm sea breeze greeted me, whispering tales of sandy beaches and hidden coves. The Novotel Hotel, my sanctuary for the trip, welcomed me with open arms and a balcony that framed the ocean like a masterpiece.

Each morning, as the sun rose in a symphony of colors, I found myself captivated by the sunrise from my balcony. The sight was so enchanting that I couldn’t help but start my day with a smile, knowing that Nha Trang had more wonders in store.

One of the highlights of my trip was the day spent island hopping. Boarding a boat, we set off to explore the jewels of Nha Trang’s coastline. Hon Mun Island greeted us with crystal-clear waters, inviting us to dive into a world of vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life.

Next, Hon Mot Island offered a tranquil respite, where I floated in the gentle embrace of the sea, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin. Hon Tam Island was a playground of adventure, where people try their hands at jet skiing and parasailing, feeling the wind in their hair and the sea spray on their face.

Returning to the mainland, I felt invigorated and alive, ready to explore more of Nha Trang’s treasures. One evening, I found myself at the rooftop bar of the Sheraton Hotel, watching the sun paint the sky in shades of gold and crimson. It was there that I met a fellow traveler from Australia, and together we wandered through the bustling night market, sharing stories of our adventures.

But it was Hon Tam Island that truly stole my heart. I decided to return and spend a day in its tranquil embrace. Booking a ferry, I arrived early in the morning, ready to indulge in the island’s offerings.

A mud bath was the perfect start to my day, followed by a refreshing swim in the infinity pool. As I lounged on the beach, I struck up a friendship with a Vietnamese girl, our laughter mingling with the sound of the waves.

The island remained deserted until noon, allowing me to revel in its beauty undisturbed. A lunch buffet overlooking the sea was a feast for both my eyes and my palate, and as I bid farewell to the island, I knew that a piece of my heart would always remain there.

As my time in Nha Trang drew to a close, I reflected on the memories I had made. From the stunning sunrises to the exhilarating adventures, Nha Trang had captured my heart in a way that no other place had.

Leaving Nha Trang was bittersweet, but I knew that the memories of this coastal paradise would stay with me forever. As I boarded the plane the next day, I whispered a silent promise to myself to return one day, to once again lose myself in the beauty and magic of Nha Trang.
Exploring the Vibrant Pulse of Ho Chi Minh City

May 26th, 2024

When I reached Ho Chi Minh City, it was late evening. I called a taxi using Grab, the local version of Uber, to take me to my hotel. After checking in, the first thing I did was look for a massage parlor to unwind after the long journey. Feeling refreshed, I enjoyed a delicious dinner and then headed to bed for an early sleep.

The next morning, I woke up early and searched online for a top-rated coffee shop for breakfast. I found one that looked promising and decided to walk there, soaking in the morning breeze. As I strolled through the city, I saw many people exercising in the park, which was a lovely sight. I arrived at a charming boutique café where both the breakfast and the coffee were exceptional.

After my delightful meal, I set out for the War Remnants Museum. Visiting the museum was a deeply moving experience. The exhibits provided a powerful and somber insight into the Vietnam War, highlighting the resilience and struggles of the Vietnamese people. The displays, including photographs, artifacts, and personal stories, painted a vivid picture of the war’s impact on the country. It was a profound reminder of the importance of peace and the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of adversity.

I decided to do a bit of shopping, hoping to find some unique items, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a bit disappointing. However, I did manage to exchange my US dollars for local currency at a gold shop, which is known to offer the best exchange rates in Vietnam. Feeling a bit weary from the heat, I returned to my hotel for a refreshing nap.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to the Social Club Rooftop Bar, renowned for its breathtaking views of the city skyline. The atmosphere was lively, and the setting sun cast a warm, golden glow over Ho Chi Minh City. I found a cozy spot and settled in, enjoying a drink while taking in the panoramic views. The cityscape transformed into a dazzling array of lights as night fell, creating a mesmerizing backdrop. I spent the evening there, soaking in the vibrant ambiance and watching the city come alive. The experience was both relaxing and exhilarating, a perfect way to end the day.

The next morning, I headed to Little Hanoi Cafe, famed for its delicious egg coffee. Egg coffee is a unique Vietnamese delicacy, made with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robusta coffee. The result is a creamy, rich beverage that is both sweet and strong. The journey there was an adventure in itself, navigating the bustling streets and heavy traffic of Ho Chi Minh City. Crossing the road was a challenge, with a constant stream of Vespas and motorbikes zipping by, but it added to the authentic experience of the city’s lively pace.

Upon arriving at Little Hanoi Cafe, I was immediately charmed by its cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. The interior was reminiscent of Hanoi’s old quarters, with vintage decor, warm lighting, and wooden furnishings that exuded a sense of history and tradition. The café felt like a serene oasis amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

Sipping on the velvety egg coffee while soaking in the charming ambiance was a delightful experience. The rich, creamy texture and the unique flavor of the coffee were truly memorable. It was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a taste of traditional Vietnamese culture.

With my time in Ho Chi Minh City coming to an end, I packed up and departed for Nha Trang to catch my flight. Reflecting on my experiences, I felt a deep appreciation for the vibrant culture, history, and warmth of the city.
My Hong Kong Layover Adventure

May 19th, 2024

It was my first long-haul flight post-COVID. Two hours before takeoff, I popped two melatonin. Guess what? I fell asleep at the gate! I woke up just in time and sprinted to board. My Cathay Pacific flight took an unexpected route from Toronto, flying over the North Pole. So, can I now say I’ve been to the North Pole? I think so!

Fourteen hours in the air flew by as I mostly slept and ate. When I landed in Hong Kong, it was 5 AM. I had an 8-hour layover and planned to explore downtown, but I had to wait for the trains to start running. At 6 AM, I took a train to Hong Kong Harbour. On the way, I saw the island and the city.

I was directed to the wrong side of the harbour and got off at a station where I needed a coin for the local train. No one wanted to help because they didn’t speak English. I returned to the train station and explained my situation to customer service. They extended my pass manually and noted my departure time. They assured me that if I returned within that time, the next person on duty would let me back in.

It was a bit of a walk from the nearest train station to the harbour. Along the way, I saw nothing but high-rise apartments. When I finally reached the harbour, I could feel the contrast of a city full of concrete surrounded by mountains. Sitting there, I felt the unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, with towering buildings behind me and serene waters in front of me.

After exploring the harbour, I decided to visit the ICC building. The journey there felt like traveling from a village to a metropolis. The ICC building was impressive, with luxurious brands in the malls that made me feel out of place.

One of the highlights was visiting the observation deck at the ICC building, Sky100. As I ascended to the 100th floor, the views became more breathtaking with each passing second. Once on the deck, I was treated to a 360-degree panorama of Hong Kong. The city sprawled out beneath me, with its iconic skyline, bustling harbour, and surrounding mountains. It was a mesmerizing sight that made all the high-rise apartments and concrete feel small and distant.

I spent a lot of time at the Ritz Carlton in the ICC building, mainly eating and relaxing because I had no energy to go anywhere else. The opulence and comfort of the Ritz Carlton were a stark contrast to my earlier adventures, and it provided a much-needed respite.

After soaking in the stunning views, I realized it was time to head back. I made my way directly to the airport to catch my connecting flight to Ho Chi Minh City, feeling a mix of exhaustion and excitement for the next leg of my journey.
Hike through Niagara Glen

May 13th, 2024

On a cloudy morning, I left Toronto on a GO Train, heading for an adventure at Niagara Glen. The train ride was smooth, but I felt a bit nervous about leading the hike because the trails there are rocky and challenging.

When I arrived, I met 22 people from our Facebook group who came for the hike. Niagara Glen is right above the fast-moving Niagara River and a big whirlpool that the river creates as it turns back on itself. This always impresses visitors. We went down the steep trails into an area with old rocks and interesting history.

The trails at Niagara Glen are tough. They go through big rocks and thick forest, and you have to be careful. The paths are well-marked, though, and they take you through wild but welcoming nature. We all stayed together, sometimes stopping to look at unusual plants or birds. We helped each other over the hard parts of the trail, which brought us closer together.

After hiking for about 1.5 hours, we finished feeling proud and happy to learn about the area’s special rocks and plants. Then, I went to cross the US-Canada border by walking across the Rainbow Bridge. The view from the bridge was amazing, with a full view of Niagara Falls.

The US side of the falls has many things to do and learn about, but the Canadian side has better views of both the American and Horseshoe Falls. Even though the US side is advertised more, many people think the views are better from Canada.

As the day ended, I went to the Table Rock Restaurant on the Canadian side for dinner alone. The restaurant is very close to the Horseshoe Falls, and it felt special to eat with such a beautiful view. There was also a little boy at the next table who came over to talk to me before he left, which was sweet. Everyone at the restaurant was celebrating Mother’s Day, which made me nostalgic and melancholic.

Getting home was another adventure because the GO Train was canceled, and they put us on a bus instead. The bus ride took four hours, but I didn’t mind. It gave me time to think about the wonderful places and people I had experienced that day.