My tram ride experience in Hong Kong brought back memories of a poem by John Keats, Ode on a Grecian Urn.
Hong Kong’s tram has been around since 1904. When I hopped on this retro machine, it appeared that time has little effect on it and I wondered if aging has become a slower process. To me, this capsule in time was capable of being seen as an eternal piece of artwork that tells a story with the sights from it’s cold, metal window.
Hong Kong Tramways operates 6 main routes running between Kennedy Town and Shau Kei Wan everyday from 6:00 to 24:00. Since we are staying at Causeway Bay, we went on the Causeway Bay-Kennedy Town route. This must be the most affordable transportation ever. Regardless of distance, only HK$2.00 will be charged for each adult passenger.
Here’s a picture I took of a fellow backpacker from UK, Shaun Cabey who joined us for a tram ’story’ experience.
We quickly got into the drama happening along the tram trail. Shaun looked so reflective.
Unlike Keats who passively wondered about the ’story’ engraved on the urn, we were thrilled at the frenzy action portrayed along the streets. Everyone looked purposeful, in pursuit of something. Where were they rushing to? What was their story? We could only guess.
Looking at the crowd from the tram, they painted fleeting pictures of a vibrant city and we wondered if Hong Kong would be a good place to stay for the better. Then again, the grass is always greener on the other side.
Having no idea who the actors were actually doing, or where they were going, we kinda reveled in this mystery. Another reason why the tram ride was so entertaining.
I thought that the heart and soul of Hong Kong lied amid its bustling streets and local markets. Well, not sure how the locals feel about tram rides but I prefer it so much more than other modes of transport on the island. It was a breezy, romantic way to see the bustling city. Time passed slower when I’m on this noteworthy public transport.
It was a wonderful experience to see Hong Kong at my own pace. Another reason why I prefer to plan my own trip instead of going with a tour. Well, go on the tram ride with a relaxed mind! You’ll be intrigued by the ’story’ which will unfolds along the tram trail.
(:
Beautifully written. Nice reflection on a moment captured. I am sure that you will remember this moment more than your shopping trips years later!
Thanks for dropping by VOAL! Yup you’re right. I enjoyed the tram ride more than the shopping.
(:
“Moist” affordable indeed.
‘moist’ marcky?
You apparently didn’t proof-read your post. Go read yourself and see.
uh oh. thks!