Sunday, 19 February 2017

Warmed by some winter views

November/December 2016

HENGSHAN (HUNAN) ,  ZHUHAI, more HONG KONG camping.


As one of the five holiest mountains in China, Mount Heng provided an opportunity for us to exercise our eyes and bodies.
A glorious, if somewhat brisk, winter's day, perfect for a climb to a temple on top of a mountain. The effort was certainly worth it.
As was Nanyue  temple; supporting Buddhist, Taoist and Confucianism it is the largest temple in the Mount Heng region.

Part of the beautiful Mount Heng Mountain Range
(stretching 150 kilometers from  Hengyang to Changsha)

Just not warm enough for a dip.

Onwards and certainly upwards.

A sneak, peek at the peak.

A small temple on the way
Note the  Nun texting the Buddha for advice!

Despite being clocked in snow and ice,  Laozi  (father of Taoism)  exudes wisdom and strength.

More Holy snow and Ice.

Ice view!!

Even nicer view :-) 

The Temple on top of the Mountain
a popular spot, especially for pilgrims, despite the 1300 meter climb.

Sun....... warm me up 

Finally, below the snow line.

Streets of Hengshan

Nanyue Temple

The following weekend we were fortunate to travel with school staff to Zhuhai.
A city on the Guangdong coast, bordering Macau, south of Shenzhen; famed for its spa resorts and the largest aquarium in the world.

Our Hotel/Resort - very nice :-) 

The small resort beach a very popular spot for pre-wedding photos.
(It is a Chinese traditions to take photos of the Bride and Groom in full hired wedding outfit before the actual ceremonial day  - the photos are then shown on the big day.

Guess what we are going to see?

We were not disappointed
Image having to clean this fish tank?

I saw all manner of strange creatures!! 

Couldn't get these fish to smile for the camera!

Fluorescent Jellyfish!!!! 

We have not seen a Panda yet but we have now seen a Polar Bear - in China!

Not the happiest of chappies!!

March of the Penguins.

JAWS!!!!

A Dugong - usually found off Australian waters.




















Not usually fond of theme parks or Zoo type exhibits,  Chimelong Ocean Kingdom was amazing. Education as well as entertainment was emphasised, and measures that support the preservation of our threatened planet and wildlife is a positive step forward.

Just before the Christmas holiday we were lucky enough to have glorious weather and scenery for our last  International Award camping trip for 2016.
Three days exploring Lantau Island in Hong Kong - exhaustingly magic.

Yi Tung Shan - 749 metres.

Imagine waking to this beautiful view 

We did on our first camping night.

Another highlight
Lin Fa Shan 766 meters.

Morning blessing

Another colourful IA campsite 

Sunset from our apartment - on our return to Shenzhen

Scene in the scenery

Nov 2016
ZHANGJIAJIE & FENGHUANG


Visiting Zhangjiajie, familiar to Avatar fans, with eight intrepid  SWIC (Shenzhen Women's International Club) ladies is a memory that was worthy of an Oscar -Best adventure by a group of foreign ladies carrying umbrellas.

Despite the damp, cold, windy and cloudy weather we had an amazing time,  in amazing scenery. The food,  landscapes, cultural experience and most of all the company over 5 days  more than made up for any hardships nature could throw at us.

If you want to relive James Cameron's inspiration (before Avatar 2 comes out in 2018) then Zhangjiajie is a must do.



Umbrellas at the ready - let the fun begin!


It didn't look like this in the movie!
Looks better on the screen

Breathtaking scenery

Adding to the view

Elevator to the Top floor - stunning scenery, breathtaking views, Toilets.


Phew, made it.
When you have to walk on the side of the mountain
Beats walking

Glad I forgot to pack my pushbike. 

It is not supposed to be this cold in early November ...

... but a smile always brightens the day.

And when the sun comes out - Traditional teahouse in a traditional setting.

A good breakfast is a good day.


Picturesque Fenghuang added some cultural beauty.

A setting befitting an historical Chinese drama 

So much to see, especially now the sun is out.