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.
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Part of the beautiful Mount Heng Mountain Range
(stretching 150 kilometers from Hengyang to Changsha) |
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| Just not warm enough for a dip. |
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| Onwards and certainly upwards. |
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| A sneak, peek at the peak. |
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A small temple on the way
Note the Nun texting the Buddha for advice! |
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| Despite being clocked in snow and ice, Laozi (father of Taoism) exudes wisdom and strength. |
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| More Holy snow and Ice. |
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| Ice view!! |
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| Even nicer view :-) |
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The Temple on top of the Mountain
a popular spot, especially for pilgrims, despite the 1300 meter climb. |
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| Sun....... warm me up |
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| Finally, below the snow line. |
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| Streets of Hengshan |
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| 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.
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| Our Hotel/Resort - very nice :-) |
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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. |
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| Guess what we are going to see? |
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We were not disappointed
Image having to clean this fish tank? |
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| I saw all manner of strange creatures!! |
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| Couldn't get these fish to smile for the camera! |
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| Fluorescent Jellyfish!!!! |
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| We have not seen a Panda yet but we have now seen a Polar Bear - in China! |
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| Not the happiest of chappies!! |
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| March of the Penguins. |
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| JAWS!!!! |
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| 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.
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| Yi Tung Shan - 749 metres. |
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| Imagine waking to this beautiful view |
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| We did on our first camping night. |
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Another highlight
Lin Fa Shan 766 meters. |
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| Morning blessing |
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| Another colourful IA campsite |
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| Sunset from our apartment - on our return to Shenzhen |
