\nI joined California Fitness two weeks ago. I actually hate gyms as I find them to be such sterile environments. But for the sake of having something to do and also just to keep healthy, I decided to join one. However, I went to the branch in Causeway Bay (the usual one I go to) only to have a shower after paddling yesterday and today after my hike. Those are expensive showers I’m having. Haha. I was desperately in need of a shower and it was nearer to head to the gym rather than go home. I mean, why not, since I’ve already paid for my membership???
\nAnyway, I’ve decided that henceforth my Sunday activity will be hiking. I found a hiking group online that organises hikes every Saturday and Sunday. Today’s hike was from Repulse Bay, through the back of it via Tai Tam Reservoir and then we ended up in Chai Wan. The 13km hike took us 3 hours in total and we had to walk up hills, cross streams, balance our footing on water pipes, toe our way through narrow paths lined with bushes, and walk up narrow stairs. For our efforts in the afternoon sun and humidity, we were rewarded with beautiful views of Hong Kong Island’s south side, the sight of cool fresh spring water streaming down and circling their way around rocks, small waterfalls, lush greenery and the pleasure of being away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It was really nice just getting out to soak in some sun and meet new people. There were about 35 people who turned up for the hike and it was a 50-50 mix of locals and foreigners.
\n
![\"IMG_8277\"](\"http:\/\/farm3.static.flickr.com\/2492\/3870041597_ee0a8e2b5b.jpg\")
<\/a><\/br>\nA fork in the road
\n
![\"IMG_8281\"](\"http:\/\/farm3.static.flickr.com\/2543\/3870829076_cbf466b898.jpg\")
<\/a><\/br>\nA view of Tai Tam Reservoir
\n
![\"IMG_8285\"](\"http:\/\/farm3.static.flickr.com\/2671\/3870832436_87694f2148.jpg\")
<\/a><\/br>\nWe walked across the bridge after that to get to the dam
\n
![\"IMG_8287\"](\"http:\/\/farm3.static.flickr.com\/2594\/3870051153_4edda65a5c.jpg\")
<\/a><\/br>\nThe dam
\n
![\"IMG_8290\"](\"http:\/\/farm4.static.flickr.com\/3436\/3870053859_3b4aeff6dd.jpg\")
<\/a><\/br>\nOne of several streams we came across
\n
![\"IMG_8291\"](\"http:\/\/farm3.static.flickr.com\/2520\/3870054889_ffa5ab1c0c.jpg\")
<\/a><\/br>\nOne of several uphill stretches of the hike
\n
![\"IMG_8292\"](\"http:\/\/farm3.static.flickr.com\/2497\/3870056287_20678fb25a.jpg\")
<\/a><\/br>\nFresh and cool water piped from the streams. Such a refreshing treat to splash the water on one’s self to cool down in the heat!
\n
![\"IMG_8295\"](\"http:\/\/farm4.static.flickr.com\/3444\/3870058951_cdce9e3f3f.jpg\")
<\/a><\/br>\nI wore my TEVA sports sandals to the hike today but decided that this and my pair of New Balance running shoes wouldn’t do for hikes as the soles and design of these two pairs of footwear aren’t suitable for hiking terrain. Though nothing happened to me today, I figured I had to have proper hiking footwear to minimise my risk of injury. Hence I headed to Causeway Bay after the hike to look for some suitable hiking gear. My sporting pursuits are costing me a lot of money!!! Nonetheless I’m pleased with this pair of hiking shoes from Columbia that cost me HKD1000. I opted for this water-proof one rather than a normal one that would have cost me half the price as it was on sale. Figured it would be worthwhile to pay more for something that might come in useful. Having wet feet wrapped in wet socks is no fun!
\nPeople who visit Hong Kong seldom see this side of Hong Kong. Many are even unaware of it. But Hong Kong is truly beautiful and there are so many kinds of outdoor activities to do. I wished more people would explore this side of Hong Kong, instead of knowing Hong Kong only for shopping and bars in Lan Kwai Fong (*yawn*). Anyway, am looking forward to more hiking pursuits!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"