IB CAS in Hong Kong & Macao

Today we escape the metropolis to visit Lantau Island and take the Ngong Ping 360 to visit the Big Buddha. The cable car ride is described by CNN as one of the world’s top ten cable car rides and stretches for over 5 kilometers over Hong Kong’s mountains. Next, it’s off to Tai O for a look at how the traditional boating communities live. Take a short boat trip for a chance to see the endangered pink dolphins (sightings are rare). Finally, students hit the beach to learn Ocean-Kayaking or Skim Boarding on the pristine coastlines of Lantau.

Students wake early today to go to Macao via ferry at the Hong Kong-Macao Ferry terminal. A former colony of Portugal, Macao is best known for its casinos, but also their egg tarts and beautiful colonial architecture. Students have the option of a guided tour, or participating in our 1-day Macao Challenge; an ‘Amazing Race’ type adventure game. Upon returning in the evening, we go to experience the hustle and bustle of the Temple Street Market.

The Lion’s Rock Hike is one of the more challenging, yet rewarding, hikes in the Hong Kong area. They are home to many macaque monkeys and students will have the chance to see real monkey colonies in their natural habitat (special safety briefing provided prior to hike). While they eat their packed lunches, students have the opportunity to sketch the incredible views of Kowloon and the whole of Hong Kong. After a short rest back at the accommodation, we will be mobilizing to do some service work in and around the streets of Hong Kong. Service projects depend on need and availability, typically, options include working with the homeless, underprivileged children, the elderly, and urban clean-ups. (Already know what type of service project you’d like to work on? Let our specialists know).

If there is time prior to the flight, we visit Stanley Market, a beautiful market area located next to a prime beachfront area. We say goodbye to our guides and trip leaders and transfer to the airport. Apply what we’ve learned from our experiences here back at home.