"Good Friday" Birthday in Macau

I turned another year older last April 2. It so happened that it was a Good Friday. During my younger years, Good Friday would have spelled gloom and boredom. It meant no meat, no laughing, no bathing (no kidding!) and no fun. Good thing I am way past that tradition! So, my family and I decided to enjoy the holy week instead outside of my country. Our choice: Hong Kong and Macau for a five days/four nights shopping extravaganza!

Actually, it wasn't the best time to be in Hong Kong that time. Smog covered the entire peninsula. You could hardly see the harbour and its famous skyscrapers. But what could we do??? We just decided to make the most of our trip.

Our first stop upon arrival was Victoria Peak. My family have been to Hong Kong in the past. But my sons have never been to the Peak. And they say, you've not seen Hong Kong unless you see the Peak. Despite the smog, we got to appreciate the skyscrapers Hong Kong is famous for.

My sons Matthew, Timothy and Andrew

That was much about sightseeing we did in Hong Kong. After the Peak experience, we just roamed around Tsim Tsai Tsui, Causeway Bay and Central during our entire stay. We enjoyed the food and the shopping. But, boy, did our feet hurt at the end of each day!!!

Timothy and Andrew's favorite shop, H & M

On the third day of our trip, which was my birthday, we decided to take a day tour to Macau. I was 15 years old the first time I went there. The facade of St. Paul's Church is the only thing I remember. Of course, Macau is more known for its magnificent casinos, now rivaling even the grander casinos of Las Vegas. We toured around the popular tourist destinations which weren't that interesting. I guess the highlight of the day's trip was a tour of the Venetian Hotel. It is true that it is even bigger than its sister in Las Vegas. Its owners really spent a fortune building this magnificent structure. Caloy and my eldest son Matt tried the slot machines while my two younger sons and I decided to take a stroll around the picturesque surroundings.

In front of St Paul's Cathedral facade

Inside the Venetian Hotel

Tourist flocking Macau

We left Hong Kong for Manila last April 4 on a Hong Kong Express plane. It was a fruitful and enjoyable experience. The food we ate was superb; the shopping was fun; the walks were purposeful. But most of all, we were able to bond as a family. I am looking forward once again to more bonding time outside of the country with my boys - Matt, Drew and Tim.

Yes, Timothy! Love is spelled F - A- M- I- L- Y!