Dear Hong Kong,

You are truly the “love of my life city”. With your bright twinkling lights, bustling harbor and high-octane street life – you captured me from the very start.

My first trip in 1980 welcomed me with the spicy scented air of a vibrant city that knows no “time-out”, “no let’s do it later” but host a 24/7 lifestyle ready to bring everyone into the fold.

More than a city, when we say Hong Kong you are really a sprawling sea of islands each uniquely presenting diversity and multiculturalism to visitors from around the world. I love most the all-inclusive style of this city. Walk the busy streets and you see it all – everything is included in your Hong Kong experience. All ages, races, cultures, styles and it’s all good.

I love to hop the Star ferry between Hong Kong and Kowloon for a quick eight minute ride. Passing fishing vessels, Junk boats and Victoria harbor full of life; what a perfect escape to the sea. Take a ride just before 8pm, grab a front row seat, panoramic view as the city transforms into a light show of colors beaming to the sky.

I love how you let me show – move past the shopping malls and check out the street markets – from

The ladies market with over 100 stalls – hawking bargains of all kinds – clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and men should not shy away because of the name – there are trinkets and other gifts items there too.

What other city brings to life a Cat Market where antiques and secrets finds are around every turn. Or a traditional Chinese Garden with stall after stall of exotic birds – ready to sing a song from their bamboo cage.

Make a stop at the Jade market for the age-old stone known for beauty and purity – thought to bring long life and good healthy – the main jingle you want on a charm bracelet.

Sneakers Street –a gathering of sports and image – this market sells dreams and coolness to the seekers of sneaker style.

My most favorite thing I love to do in the city is visiting the quaint little village of Stanley and shopping in the Stanley Market. With the reputation for designer knock-offs, you can also find beautiful linen and cashmere. Take a scenic bus ride – it’s like a city tour as you drive through the city, along the shore and into residential areas. With lots of little cafes stop for a bite to eat.

There is a bar scene and I love to sing the night away – strolling from Karaoke to Karaoke bar – picking songs and belting tunes. That is simply the best fun friends can do together and Neway Karaoke never fails.

Each tie I’m in the city I must go to the Flowery Market tucked away on a little street away from the busy flow of people and cars– as a lover of orchids – with dozens and dozens of sops popping with color & filling the air with sweet waves of fragrance.

Hong Kong with your vibrant energy and way of life – you are a non-stop city. And I love to view it all from Victoria Peak – high above it all – I bask in the liveliness and get-up and go.

You have taught me from the beginning to get out and live life – to be alive and experience every minute. Live in the present and love what you have right in front of you.

Thank you for that – you are my true love.