Macau

So having arrived at the airport safely - 4.5 hours early in fact - and drunk our last baht away in the cafe, Kirsty left to go back to England, a job and being cold for a few weeks while she gets used to the weather again, and I left for Macau - where I now am. Despite what I'd been told I quite like it here. Although it was a bit concerning when the plane was taxiing (spelling?) up to the airport and all I could see was water out of one side, it really does seem like an attractive - if polluted - place. Furthermore, it's not all that full of casinos other than on the water front where there is something of a sense that there might be a slot machine element to the parking meters. My room is very nice - although more expensive than I'd hoped for; I suspect the olympics are to blame. In my afternoon here, other than just taking a bit of a stroll (after a much needed shower) I've walked up to the ruins of a church (much better that way, and lovely views too), and from there a short bit further up to a fort, with yet more good views. I tried to eat at a nice Italian place recommended in the guide - but alas it was being renovated..so I went to pizza hut instead; my stomach needs a break from rice.

Tomorrow I'll leave for HK via ferry for maybe 6 nights, possibly includingi a night or two on Lantau (one of the islands), and certainly some of my day plans are to see some beaches and mountains (as well as getting a visa and booking my train to Shanghai [25 hour journey]). While there I will also see Vicky which should be nice. Anyway, I have applying to be a teacher things to do. Will update more from HK.