Tai Chi, Tai Hang and Dancing OAP’s

Promenade Run

Up bright and early I began my morning with some light exercise astride the bustling waterfront. Tower blocks rose to my left whilst cargo ships plied their trade to my right. I was joined on my run by a whole host of interesting characters. One elderly gent banged out sit-ups on the concrete prom and another stripped down to his briefs for a dip in the murky waters of the bay, whilst a trio of octogenarian (at least) ladies danced to music emanating from their crackling boom box. Some of the younger generation preferred more conventional forms of exercise, such as bicep curling overpriced coffees or lateral raises with their selfie sticks. All in all an enjoyable start to the days proceedings.

Victoria Park

After breakfast we decided a mooch across the water was in order. Causeway Bay was our intended destination but we soon found ourselves disenfranchised with the maddening crowds and high end boutiques. In a bid for some peace and quiet we headed for the nearby Victoria Park. Our initial thoughts were ones of disappointment as grafters scurried back and forth as they prepared temporary seating for an upcoming tennis competition but first impressions can often be misleading. We eventually found a bench on the edge of the ‘grand lawn’ and watched as locals of all ages undertook various forms of exercise. For many the activity of choice was Tai Chi - a gentle series of flowing movements that incorporate meditation and breath-work. Though a little strange upon the eye to those of a western persuasion, this ritual like recreation must be of some benefit (HK has the highest average life expectancy in the world). An hour or two passed and we left the park feeling revitalised. Honourable mention for the magnificent statue of Queen Victoria after whom the park is named.

Tai Hang

Only a five minute walk from Victoria Park sits the neighbourhood of Tai Hang - a small but charming slice of the Causeway Bay monstrosity. Between body shop’s refitting battered old cherry red taxis and Chinese temples burning incense, we immediately felt more at home here. We spent an hour wandering the tight knit streets bathed in the warm glow of the late afternoon sun and rounded things off with a drink in one of the areas quirky bars. Speaking of quirky I opted for an ‘orange black’ (two thirds fresh orange/one third black coffee) which I must admit went down like a treat. According to the waitress they’re on trend - maybe I’ll stick to tap water next time.