For a fun weekend getaway, Julian and I decided to go to Stanley Market for the day. I had never been, and Julian explained it as a "must-go" place for tourists, especially those from the United States or Europe.
When we got there, I understood what he meant. A 30 minute bus ride from the Wan Chai area of Hong Kong Island through the twists and turns of the mountains, we finally arrived in front of a bustling street market with an array of little shops.
When we got there, I understood what he meant. A 30 minute bus ride from the Wan Chai area of Hong Kong Island through the twists and turns of the mountains, we finally arrived in front of a bustling street market with an array of little shops.
It was definitely "touristy", and we winded through the market looking at trinkets, clothes, Hong Kong art, jewelry, silk, little souvenirs, and postcards. I bought a small journal to write notes in and some postcards to send back home to my family.
When we came out of the actual market, to my surprise I realized that there was more this place had to offer. It was situated right on the water, overlooking a small cove with fishing boats spotting the ocean. A boardwalk traced the outline of the water, with a variety of restaurants and cafes that gave you a perfect view of the dreamy orange-red sunset.
When we came out of the actual market, to my surprise I realized that there was more this place had to offer. It was situated right on the water, overlooking a small cove with fishing boats spotting the ocean. A boardwalk traced the outline of the water, with a variety of restaurants and cafes that gave you a perfect view of the dreamy orange-red sunset.
I felt like I had teleported to Spain or France, because it reminded me so much of the waterfronts in Europe. There was even a boutique hotel, and if you walked past the boardwalk there were some unique pop-up shops, local art galleries, and restaurants in the sand.
Of course, there is an area that is more commercialized, the Stanley Plaza shopping center with a Starbucks and some more expensive stores. But the highlights of Stanley are the more local spots where you can enjoy some inexpensive, delicious food and light shopping.
Julian was ecstatic when we came across Mr. Softee ice cream, and he made me try it for old-times-sake. He had loved it as a kid, and even though I am lactose-intolerant I had to give it a try! It comes in one flavor, vanilla, and they serve it out of old-school ice cream trucks, not at a store. I have to admit, it was the best soft serve ice cream I have ever had.
Julian was ecstatic when we came across Mr. Softee ice cream, and he made me try it for old-times-sake. He had loved it as a kid, and even though I am lactose-intolerant I had to give it a try! It comes in one flavor, vanilla, and they serve it out of old-school ice cream trucks, not at a store. I have to admit, it was the best soft serve ice cream I have ever had.
In the late afternoon, we sat at a restaurant on the boardwalk (I forget the name!) and had a glass of wine while watching the sunset.
What a relaxing way to spend a Saturday afternoon, only a short bus or car ride away from the heart of the city. I told Julian this was definitely going to be our new frequent getaway spot. And if you ever decide to go, make sure you have a taste of Mr. Softee!