One of the saddest things about becoming an adult is losing summer. Of course, there's still the season, which honestly I'd happily lose in Hong Kong, its oppressive humidity and all. But the deliciously lazy six to eight weeks of nothingness and boredom I remember from childhood vanish for most of us in the workforce. (Though, perhaps they've already disappeared for the modern era's chronically overscheduled children, too.)
In the middle of these laid-back weeks, one might find a family outing to disrupt the pleasant monotony of idleness. This could involve a day at the beach, a trip to see the grandparents, or maybe even an exciting voyage overseas, should fortune smile upon you.
With that mindset of grand and modest escapades alike, let me present our summer travel feature. Regardless of whether you've locked in your travel arrangements or plan to stay within the city limits, I trust this edition will spark inspiration just as it did for me.
Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge , our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.
I really enjoyed learning about the fresh vitality revitalizing Bangkok’s Yaowarat district, also known as Chinatown. In his conversation with Vincent Vichit-Vadakan, the emerging leaders spearheading this transformation discuss their efforts to restore historic structures and revitalize the neighborhood through innovative eateries, cocktail lounges, and contemporary art venues. Based on feedback from others, I am persuaded that visiting Bangkok at present would be an ideal experience.
Through his stunning photographs, Christopher Wilton-Steer captures the concluding segment of his extensive 40,000-kilometer trek along the historic Silk Road. His newly released book takes readers on an eastern voyage starting from Italy until reaching Beijing, blending tales of this ancient trading path’s past with contemporary realities. This time, Wilton-Steer showcases the latter part of his adventure as he traverses from the Pakistani frontier through to China. Although these distant corners of mainland have been unexplored territories for me so far, the captivating scenery of Dunhuang and the vastness of the Gobi Desert beckon my interest.
Cameron Dueck treks through Japan's largest national park, Daisetsuzan. I'll be honest, the prospect of brown bears lessens its appeal for me but I have faith you might be braver. What does the height of indulgence look like to a newly christened Hongkonger? The solitude and vast expanses of wilderness that he encounters.
In another part of this edition, we have plenty to fuel your sense of adventure. Thomas Bird talks to longtime residents of Kunming about must-see sights, activities, and local cuisine in the provincial capital of Yunnan. Having spent a few summers there myself, I agree—it offers a refreshing escape from the often oppressive warmth and moisture found throughout much of Southeast Asia. Our Interior section features Peta Tomlinson taking us on a journey to England’s picturesque countryside, where ex-Hong Kong resident Alice Fortescue has rejuvenated her family's historic 15th-century mansion and turned it into an inviting retreat for visitors. Lastly, in Then & Now, Jason Wordie reminisces about past summertime getaways.
Although we may no longer enjoy extensive summer vacations like we did before, adulthood brings the advantage of selecting our own summertime getaways. Here’s hoping you have some enjoyable trips lined up.
More Articles from SCMP
Bruno Fernandes to Saudi Arabia? Manchester United manager Amorim shares his thoughts in Hong Kong
When I mention being Chinese, people often laugh at me. Who cares?
The Hong Kong-based legal organization could address the 'significant' worldwide void, according to the justice minister.
Qu Yuan, the Chinese patriot whose demise is believed to have inspired the traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival.
This article originally appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), the leading news media reporting on China and Asia.
Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Posting Komentar