Hikers and Monkeys and Goats, Oh My!

 We continue P-day hikes as everything else is closed and the weather is perfect.  I'll share photos from two recent experiences.

We began our hike to Smuggler’s Pass in the new territories one Saturday in January.  Monkey’s lined the beginning of the paved trail hoping for a handout.  I tried to inch as close as possible to this creature.

The trail didn’t seem right.  This lovely family watched over us and led us through a forest like area then pointed the direction to our intended path.  Rex insisted I take his number and call or text if we couldn’t find our way.    Our course was too far from the intended hike so we enjoyed the new adventure.  I did text Rex, sent pictures of their group and thanked him for the guidance he offered.  They read our name tags and know who we are.  This exposure provides the best atmosphere for casual discussions.

                                                We overlook a different part of the city.

Back to the beginning, the monkeys seem livelier.  People disregard the signs about not feeding the monkeys.  

As we leave the monkey area I’m ready to munch on an apple.  What a mistake – the very appearance drew a crowd of monkeys.  I was surrounded and held the apple over my head.  One aggressive “friend” jumped to my shoulder and scratched my arm on his descent.   The fruit was immediately placed in Rick’s backpack as the crowd dispersed.  

Rick crosses the dam to catch the bus as we finish a day of unknown hikes that never led to our intended trail.  We call that an adventure of nearly 9 miles.

February weather is warm and humid as we begin a new hike.  Black goats line the trail to Thousand Island Reservoir.

                    We notice the goats run to this man and his child.  Mom films the event.

He offers carrot sticks and the goats eat gloriously and jump for more.  That was cheap entertainment for their little boy.

                                        The view of 1000 Islands is well worth the hike.

        The hazy day slightly diminishes the beauty of Rick’s photo of Thousand Island Reservoir.

                                            Hong Kong trails use a lot of stone steps

Rick descends the log and sand steps.  Coming down is easier but we must carefully watch our feet.

Gardens line a beginning portion of the trail.  This mother and her son sell beautiful greens and only ask 8 times the cost of veggies in the wet market.   Organic produce fetches a much higher price. 

Ahh!  This Little Softie seller found the perfect location.  He never took a break as customers returning from the hike gladly purchased a cool refreshing treat.