1. Cambodia

In January, I went to Cambodia and finally got to see Angkor Wat, the remains of a once great empire and civilization. The visit to the killing fields where the Khmer Rouge committed their atrocities was also sobering and is a good reminder to humanity of the mistakes of the past.

2. Finishing the second semester of university in May

One more semester down!

3. The passing of my granduncle in early June

My fifth granduncle was like the grandfather I never had. He succumbed to cancer on 1 June and I returned to see him off on his final journey. It was a sad moment for his immediate and extended family.

4. Scandinavia

In June, I sat foot in Finland, Norway, Sweden and Denmark on a whirlwind trip through these four countries. I wished I had more time to hike in Norway as its countryside is stunning with waterfalls streaming down soaring cliffs in the fjords that are filled charming villages dotting the waterways.

5. Visiting my ancestral village on my maternal side

In July, my mum, uncles and their families came to Hong Kong for a visit. While we were together, we went to visit our ancestral village in 花刀村 (Huadao village) in Guangdong province for the first time. It was an interesting experience for all of us and was good to spend time together as an extended family. I doubt there will be another chance like that and I really cherished the time I spent with my family.

6. Oxfam Trailwalker

I started training for the 100km Oxfam Trailwalker in July. Training took place throughout the hot summer and it was a real test of resilience to last through the trainings in the brutal heat. But oh, it was a good feeling to be utterly spent at the end of each training. All the trainings culminated in the actual event on 14 November which happened to be my birthday. It was a memorable birthday spent with hiking friends followed by a great sense of accomplishment upon completing the race as a full team in 24h 33min.

7. Finishing the third semester of university in December

Three semesters down. Just two more to go!

8. Getting published in the SCMP

It was a small thrill to have my letter to the South China Morning Post published. My letter suggested that the government promote eco-tourism instead of building in Hong Kong country parks.

9. Job offer

I interviewed for a job which I thought offered more career prospects and was offered the role. I start in early Feb 2015.

10. Cape Town, South Africa

After a few hectic months juggling work, school and training, I took a two-week break in Cape Town. I was there on my own for five days before a friend joined me. Cape Town is a gorgeous city and Table Mountain stands at the centre of it all. The imposing and powerful presence of this flat-top mountain is what makes this city special, together with its  beautiful coastline, roaring oceans and gusty winds. Apart from having my bag stolen (money, phone, credit cards, keys to my HK flat gone), I enjoyed myself and had a relaxing time.

 

So 2014 had quite a number of highlights and overall I think I had a good year. Happy New Year to all and here’s to more adventures in 2015!