A Trip to Lamma Island
An unplanned trip that turned into one of my most cherished memories.
I left behind the crowds, the stifling heat, and the oppressive high-rises of Hong Kong’s city center, boarding an old double-decker ferry from Aberdeen Pier. Aqua had recommended this route, and it was a delight — open sides, a steady breeze, and an unobstructed view of the sea. A far cry from peering through the foggy windows of modern ferries.
On Lamma Island, I followed Aqua’s directions to her house: a charming blue-and-white two-story building with greenery framing the entrance. Inside, it was warm and lived-in — filled with books (not quite my usual taste), quirky knick-knacks, and small pieces of furniture that spoke of someone who knows how to enjoy life. Aqua herself was thoughtful and generous, suggesting several hiking routes around the island. I also met her neighbor, a French woman, and got to cuddle her big dog.
A twenty-minute walk from Sok Kwu Wan brought us to Lo So Shing Beach — the perfect spot to watch a full sunset. It was quiet, clean, and stunningly beautiful. Honestly the most gorgeous beach I’ve ever seen.
The next day, I tackled a two-and-a-half-hour hiking trail across the island. An hour of climbing to reach the summit, brutal under the summer sun. But the exhaustion melted away the moment I looked out — the most spectacular view I’ve encountered in my life. A perfect island.
That afternoon, before our hike, Aqua spent an hour doing yoga in the living room. Then she sat on the front balcony surrounded by greenery, sipping tea, daydreaming, basking in the sun alongside her neighbor’s dog. An idyllic weekend scene. I thought: someone who savors life this deeply must be a wonderful person.
In the evening, Aqua and I walked back to Lo So Shing Beach together. Along the way she switched effortlessly between Cantonese and English, greeting old acquaintances and calling every dog by name. We chatted, waded in the water, watched the sunset, and got to know each other better. She’s a fascinating person — a literature researcher at a Hong Kong university who moved to the island three years ago, and just last month spent a month in Paris watching the Olympics. Later we cooked dinner together. I made my signature Braised Chicken with Rice (黄焖鸡米饭); she stir-fried eggs with chives. We talked for hours. I was so happy to have found such a great new friend.
The whole experience was wonderful — every detail thoughtfully arranged. The island’s beauty and quiet, combined with the warmth of Aqua’s home, make it a true haven from the city. More than just a trip, it’s an ideal retreat for anyone seeking stillness — for reading, writing, thinking, or simply resting. Aqua is an exceptional host; I can’t recommend her enough.
An unforgettable journey. The scenery, the people, the weather, the food — all of it came together perfectly. I’m so glad it happened.
