Travel Diaries – Hong Kong & Macau

Hong Kong Harbour
Hong Kong as seen from across the harbour in Kowloon.

Hong Kong was the first stop on my three week tour of China. I timed the visit so that I could run the Hong Kong Half Marathon. I had about a week to take in the city and see the sights. It was barely enough time in my opinion but those are the risks when you combine a race together with a vacation.  Continue reading “Travel Diaries – Hong Kong & Macau”

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Travel Diaries – Lisbon, Portugal

lisbon_rooftops
A rooftop view of the Alfama district complete with a view of mouth of the Tagus River.

Sometimes I travel and not just to run races but to explore and to experience new cultures. I recently travelled to Lisbon, Portugal with friends for a much needed break. Even though it was a short trip, we still managed to take in quite a few of the sights. A few quick facts about Lisbon:

• Lisbon is the capital and the largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe.

• Alfama is the oldest district in Lisbon and the only to survive the earthquake of 1775 which destroyed most of the city.

• Lisbon is nicknamed “The City of Seven Hills”; the city streets often traverse steep inclines and many are paved with cobblestones.

• Many in Lisbon speak both English and Portugese, tourists who don’t speak Portugese should be able to get by. Continue reading “Travel Diaries – Lisbon, Portugal”