Myself and 18 others are on an 11-day journey in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta region of mainland China (Guangzhou, Dongguan, and Shenzhen). We arrived Saturday evening in Hong Kong, and we head to the mainland of China Thursday.
Sunday: we did a full day tour of Hong Kong. We started with a tram ride up to Victoria’s Peak to overlook the harbor. We then headed to the famous Stanley Market for shopping. After that, we went to Repulse Bay, where we not only saw a local beach, but we also observed Daoist temple with active worshippers. From there, we went to Aberdeen, an old fishing village, where we ate at the Jumbo Floating Restaurant and road on a Sampan (small fishing boat).
Monday: We visited the headquarters of Cathay Pacific. After a presentation and Q&A with one of their executives, we took a tour of their training facilities and simulators. They then treated us to a large buffet that was amazing…I noticed a few students take multiple creme brules and other desserts too. After that visit, we went to the US Consulate to visit with the Senior Commercial Services Officer to explore trade opportunities for US firms and understand how they can help US based companies export to Hong Kong, Macau and China.
Tuesday: We spent the morning at Hong Kong Baptist University. We first had a lecture on Chinese Wisdom and Modern Management. This lecture provided a fascinating insight into the mindset of Chinese businesspeople. We then had a session with the retired Executive Director of HSBC’s Asian operations. He discussed the role Hong Kong plays as the 3rd leading financial market in the world (behind only London and New York). We were then treated to a Dim Sum lunch with HKBU MBA students and faculty, providing a great networking and learning opportunity. After lunch, we visited the School of Chinese Medicine to learn more about this approach to health and wellness. Lastly, we visited the Hong Kong Trade Development Council to better understand trading opportunities.
On top of those official activities, we have all been exploring Hong Kong. We have eaten at a amazing restaurants, shopped in local markets, shopped in high end retail stores, taken ferry rides across the harbor, listened to music, and much more. Hong Kong is an amazing metropolitan city with something for everyone.
While the trip has been fun, the learning has been amazing!
