Hiking in Hong Kong

Hiking along Dragon's Back.

In Hong Kong, I acted as a trip liaison for the first time on this voyage. Semester at Sea appoints a trip liaison to be the leader of each field program. The trip liaison is a go-between for the student participants and the tour guide, ensuring that the day runs smoothly, and is also in charge should a safety or security situation arise.

I was a bit nervous to be a trip liaison but it turns out, there was no need to worry. I had a wonderful day and a great group of students who made the field program a success.

Twenty-five students and I went hiking on Dragon’s Back in Hong Kong. I love Hong Kong because you can be in one of the most cosmopolitan areas in the world and 30 minutes later, you can be hiking up a mountain surrounded by trees in what seems to be the middle of nowhere. The balance of having both the city life and nature close by is wonderful.

I’m so glad I did this field program. Not only was it great to experience being a trip liaison, the field program was also very relaxing. My time in China was very busy so being able to get back into nature was just what the doctor ordered. Plus, what great views!

Here we go on Dragon's Back Hiking Trail.

Views during our hike.

My lovely hiking group.

View during our hike on Dragon' Back.

Refueling in Honolulu

Welcome to Honolulu, Hawaii!

After a quick visit to Hilo on Saturday, we spent yesterday refueling in Honolulu. Unfortunately, we were not allowed off the ship as the stop was just for the ship to refuel and restock in preparation for our upcoming Pacific crossing. Today made me realize that if you look up the word “torture” in the dictionary, you’ll find one of the meanings is “making someone sit on a ship with paradise sprawling out in front of them.” Although we were not able to disembark, I was able to take some photos of Honolulu from deck 7 while enjoying the warm sunshine.

Now we are on to Japan with 10 days until we see dry land again. This Pacific crossing will be a true test of my patience and also my ability to not get seasick. The Pacific is supposed to be some of the roughest waters we’ll endure during the voyage. Full steam ahead-wish me luck!

View of Honolulu from deck 7 of the ship.

Port #1 - Check

After six sea days, yesterday we docked in Hilo, Hawaii, for the day. I had to work in the morning but was able to spend the afternoon and early evening in the city. I spent the day relaxing, walking along the bay and checking out the downtown area. Hilo is beautiful! The weather was gorgeous-sunny skies and warm sea breezes.

There are many outdoorsy things to see and do around Hilo including hiking Mauna Kea, going to Volcanoes National Park and checking out Rainbow Falls. Unfortunately since I had to work, I did have time to venture very far from this ship. While I don’t think the Big Island is an attractive of location when considering a trip to Hawaii, I would love to venture back someday to do some more exploring.

This one's for my Dad and no, I don't know what type of tree this is but it was big and impressive!

Kamehameha the Great, a former ruler in Hawaii.

Welcomed to Hilo by a beautiful sunrise and a whale sighting!

Watch out!

Trying out the fish eye effect on my camera at Hilo Bay.

Exploring Hilo Bay.