Hong Kong: The Ideal Backdrop for 'Under Parallel Skies

 All the places we’ve been to have a story to tell. Every location we visit tends to keep a piece of us until the next time we encounter it. In 28 Squared Studios’ film “Under Parallel Skies,” every scene is a picturesque display of a love story unfolding against the timeless beauty of Hong Kong. 

Filipino actress Janella Salvador and Thai actor Win Metawin come together as an unlikely pairing but with surprisingly good onscreen chemistry in this romantic tale set in Asia’s World City.. The story unfolds as Iris (played by Janella) helps Parin (portrayed by Win) find his missing mother, leading their relationship to flourish and grow amidst the backdrop of Hong Kong. “Under Parallel Skies'' spotlights the city’s hidden charm through the various locations and attractions featured, showing a different perspective on what people usually expect when it comes to Hong Kong.

 

If you think a serendipitous trip to Asia’s World City is in the stars for you, then these locations from “Under Parallel Skies” might be some of the best places to start.

 

Peng Chau

 

Lead actress Janella said it herself that Peng Chau is “a place you don’t usually see from Hong Kong”. She goes on to gush over the slow-paced lifestyle on the island, where people ride bikes instead of cars.  In the film, Parin finds the time to bring a bit of humor by coaxing Iris to try a Thai delicacy: silkworms. The location where they bought the snack is a real establishment called Siyamon Thai Cooking which you can find on the island. My Secret Garden is an open art space with fun installations and is where a number of Parin and Iris’ more playful moments were filmed. And finally, (spoiler warning) the cafe that played a significant role in the film is a real cafe named Chill Chill Country.

 

Peng Chau is truly a scenic location that gives you a taste of real village life. The charming island is dotted with Instagram and photography-worthy spots — from remains of an old factory, beaches, and temples, to street arts which add vibrancy to this tranquil community. Walking its trails gives the inspired feeling of a possible meet-cute, or is simply the perfect place to be alone with your own thoughts and the nature around you.

 

Getting to Peng Chau is easy. Take a ferry from Central Pier No. 6, which is accessible from MTR Hong Kong Station. This trip takes about 30 minutes. More info about Peng Chau.

Avenue of Stars

 

Some of the most poignant scenes in the movie take place at the Avenue of Stars, a Hong Kong staple that is sure to dazzle anyone who visits. Standing in the midst of all the lights while taking in the view of the water will surely bring the same feeling that some scenes from the movie evoke. Surrounded by the visually refreshing architecture and with a front-row seat to the city’s iconic Symphony of Lights show, you can have your own romantic city moment.

 

Bird Market

 

Birds were a recurring symbol throughout the film and the Bird Market is an interesting spot for those who love being close to animals, as well as those who are looking to adopt unconventional pets. Exotic and colorful birds line the street, and it is definitely a unique place to make lasting memories on your trip to Hong Kong

 

Have a look at the exotic birds at Yuen Po Street Bird Garden atYuen Po Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong.

 

Luk on Kui

 

The old-school trolley dim sum is a must for foodies and dim sum lovers. Iris and Parin had the chance to deepen their understanding of each other while they talked over this dim sum place’s esteemed food. Heralded as Hong Kong’s best dim sum, Luk on Kui is a testament that the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach. If you want the most authentic dim sum experience, then having a meal at Luk on Kui will surely make your entire trip.

 

Fulfill your dim sum dreams at Luk on Kui at 40-50 Des Voeux Rd W, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong.

 

Causeway Bay Sogo crossing

 

In the film, Iris mentions something about transitions and changes in life. The Causeway Bay crossing is the best visual representation of this, as it's where the biggest transitions happen in the city. It’s the very definition of a bustling spot and a representation of the fast-paced city life of Hong Kong.

 

Tin Hau Temple at Yau Ma Tei

 

One theme touched upon by the film is fate, with Iris and Parin visiting the Tin Hau temple to find out their fortune and what the future holds for them. The temple is a declared monument of Hong Kong where fishermen flock to worship the Goddess of the Sea. It’s a place for those more spiritual of mind, wherein a quiet moment spent here is the perfect escape from the fast-paced city life in Hong Kong.

 

Visit this tranquil shrine at 56-58 Temple Street, Temple St, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong.

 

Tai O Fishing Village

 

On the subject of fishing and fishermen, Tai O is the resident fishing town of Hong Kong hidden away at the far end of Lantau Island. The movie shows its tranquil waters and how life can be simpler in a place like Tai O. The little boats and the salty fragrance of the water will surely make this a memorable spot, It is also home to the iconic Tai O Heritage Hotel, scenic hiking trails, traditional restaurant fare, and street snacks. Keep an eye out for local Tai O souvenirs such as shrimp paste, salty fish, and dried seafood.

There are a few ways to get to Tai O. One of them is to take the train from Central to MTR Tung Chung Station followed by bus 11 to Tai O. The journey takes about 45 minutes. Learn more about the tranquil village of Tai O here.

 

 

Little Thailand

 

Within Kowloon City, Little Thailand can be found. A comedic scene in the film references this location and offers a sweet and thoughtful reference to Win’s home country. Little Thailand also serves as the backdrop to Parin’s biggest conflict in the movie. The shops and establishments are certainly authentic, transporting you to Thailand in an instant.

 

Experience a taste of Thailand in the Kowloon City Market at 100 Nga Tsin Wai Rd, Kowloon City, Hong Kong. Other Thai-inspired locations nearby are the shops along South Wall Roadand Ruamjai Thai Grocery at G/F, 21 South Wall Road, Kowloon City, Kowloon.

Jimmy Bridge

 

The Jimmy Bridge is uniquely designed and offers a picture-perfect atmosphere for everyone crossing it. One of the more dramatic sequences in the movie takes place at this bridge, a sure tearjerker for those who have yet to see this film. 

 

Iris and Parin may be from two different worlds, but Hong Kong is where they came together to tell their story. From a remote fishing village to a busy main street, these characters pieced together their journey with memories from all of the unique spots and attractions they visited in the city.

 

“Under Parallel Skies” premiered nationwide on April 17, 2024, and is directed by award-winning director Sigrid Bernardo. This story of love, grief, and transitions will also be shown in several countries, including Singapore and Thailand, and is thoughtfully co-produced by Hong Kong native Richard Juan. 

 

To learn more about the featured locations and embark on your own journey under the stars, check out discoverhongkong.comfor more information.

(PTIC) in Hong Kong is set to unveil its latest campaign called "Philippine Flavours" on August 5

The Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC – Hong Kong) will conduct an unveiling ceremony for its new brand marketing campaign entitled, “PHILIPPINE FLAVOURS,” in the Hong Kong market together with the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong (PCGHK), the Philippine Trade and Investment Center – Beijing, the Philippine Trade and Investment Center – Shanghai, the Philippine Trade and Investment Center – Guangzhou, the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, the Department of Trade and Industry  – Export Marketing Bureau, the Department of Trade and Industry Baguio – Benguet, and the Office of Agriculture Counsellor of the Philippines in Beijing, on 5 August 2021 at 2:00PM.

The unveiling ceremony will be streamed live via zoom and via the Facebook account PTIC-Hong Kong. During the event, Consul General of the Philippines to Hong Kong Raly L. Tejada, will welcome and thank all the participants to the unveiling. The main launch will feature a Philippine local Chef – businessman and a Hong Konger Key Opinion Leader – chef using Filipino ingredients in cooking three (3) dishes which are popular in Hong Kong. After the video, a panel will discuss how the concept of Philippine Flavours came to be and its relevance to the Philippines and Hong Kong today.  The Secretary of the DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez will further the importance of supporting Filipino products in his closing remarks. 

 

The Philippines, being located close by Hong Kong, has been untapped by the Hong Kong market for the Philippines food, beverages, and ingredients. The presentation will highlight the different possibilities that Filipino products may take part of in the Hong Kong market. On the other hand, the Hong Kong market will be informed about the similarities of the Filipino and Hong Kong palates and flavours with respect to their own cuisines, so the Hong Kong market can make use of a lot of Filipino products in their daily needs.

 

We welcome everyone to register thru https://tinyurl.com/4rtb2upv to join the unveiling ceremony if you are interested.

 

For more information, please visit PTIC-HK’s microsite at www.dti.gov.ph/overseas/hongkong or send emails to hongkong@dti.gov.ph.

 

Hongkong Disneyland: Before and After Corona

Just because I love Hongkong.  It was last year that I've decided to book a flight  na ako lang sana mag isa. It was originally planned on Dec 4-8.  Try ko sana mag solo backpacker. Read my first posts here. 

http://www.lemongreenteaph.com/2020/01/what-to-do-in-hongkong-2nd-day-with-or.html

http://www.lemongreenteaph.com/2019/12/what-to-do-in-hongkong-first-day-with.html

But my partner advised against it,  na dapat kasama sya at ano naman daw ang gagawin ko dun mag isa?  Kaya ayun we booked a Cathay Pacific flight from Dec 18-24, 2019 and spent christmas eve sa HK airport. 

Hongkong is my favorite country, sa dinami dami ng pagpipilian between Korea and Japan,  sya pa din  ang pinili ko. Been there 5x already. The first time was in 2009 together with my daughter and friends, and after that 2013, 2015, 2017 and  2019 respectively, with of course @whereiseduy, my partner in crime.

Hongkong never fails to amaze me, ang dami kse attractions and ang lakas lang maka bata. 

We always include Macau sa trip namin.  For visa stamping and all, hahaha. 

But not this time, we decided to explore HK by train and shopping na din on the side. Then syempre sa aming "happiest place on earth" Disneyland.  Dahil sa maniwala kayo at sa hindi isip bata pa din ako kahit lola na. =) 

We booked our hotel through Agoda. Ang daming murang hotel last year, because of the protest going on since August extended until December. Nag stop lang  because of Corona virus. 

We stayed along Nathan Road para malapit sa MTR,  Mongkok, Jordan, fast food, restaurant and buses. Ayaw namin magutom noh. Hahaha.

Our itineraries included yung galaan sa Wan Chai for my partner dahil sa toys, Causeway Bay for Sephora, IKEA, Decathlon,  H&M . Maswerte din lang kami kse nsa tabi lang namin Dondonki for those cute "japan japan" things . And of course, nag ikot din kami ng milk tea shops. Mas masarap and mura pa din ang "teas" sa Taiwan. 

Mostly, shopping lang talaga ang ginawa namin and included Disneyland sa 3rd day para ma feel na din yung Christmas sa Disney.

The first day that we arrived in Hongkong halos lahat naka facemask na sa kalye. Windy kse that time and mejo malamig na kaya most of the people na masalubong namin ay may ubo or sipon. It never occured to us that covid-19 would strike any time during those month. Mabuti na lang din at naka vitamins kami so that mejo malakas ang immunity namin sa sakit. 

Guys, I know matatapos din etong pandemic. I hope by the time na mabasa nyo eto ay meron ng cure or vaccine. Lets all pray and hope for the best.

WISHFUL THINKING PO AKO!

If next year by December ay okay na ang Hongkong and you have booked your hotel along Nathan Road. This is how to get to Disneyland coming from TST or Nathan Road. 


HOW TO GET TO DISNEYLAND FROM NATHAN ROAD VIA MTR

You can use your Octopus card going to Disneyland. So, bumili ka na ng Octopus card when you get to HK airport or you can order it via Klook, then pick up na lang sa airport.

You can go via MTR from Tsim Sha Tsui Station, on Nathan Road the journey to Disneyland Resort Station takes about 45 mins including interchanges at Lai King (to the Tung Chung Line) and Sunny Bay (to the Disneyland Resort Line). 

This is by far the fastest way going to Disneyland. I would not recommend taxi or bus. But if you have the budget to splurge for the taxi eh di sge go. 

Last train from Disneyland is just after midnight. The last leg of the MTR journey from Sunny Bay to Disneyland is on a Disney-themed train. 

Eto yung bungad sa min madami pang tao but we were expecting na konti na lang eto since may protest during that time. 

This was the attraction/scene before the corona virus..

Disney Popcorn!

And this was taken last January when Covid-19 took Hongkong and China..

It became a ghost town in an instant. According to news,  Shanghai Disneyland and Hong Kong Disneyland in succession on January 25 and 26  both have remained closed since. To contain the spread of Covid-19, as the danger of the virus and the disease became clear. 

May 15-30 marked the 2nd month of lockdown here in Metro Manila. 

Lockdown has been enforced to other countries like Italy, Ireland, US and  Spain. 

I am praying for everyone's safety. Prevention is cure so always bring your alcohol/sanitizer with you to disinfect. Wash your hands thoroughly. Take your vitamins and stay indoors. 

Hongkong MTR station

This is the new normal. Praying that a cure and or a vaccine would be up in a month or so. But for now, take care and stay safe everyone. 

Travel safely if you must. See you all soon in Hongkong when everything get back to normal.

What to do in Hongkong: 2nd Day with or without protesta

Second Day in Hongkong..
#DondonDonki
#MonsterBuilding
#Ichiran
#Ikea
#Sephora

Back in one of my favorite places in the world!

We've been to Hongkong , 5x na. Last time namin is 2017. Yes, until now di pa din ako nagsasawa sa HK. Sya ang pinaka favorite ko sa lahat. Marami pa din ako gusto iexplore at puntahan sa HK. With that said, may protesta o wala tumuloy pa din kami last December 2019. 


So napagusapan namin ni Ed na wala na muna  Ngong Ping, Victoria Peak and Ocean Park. Napuntahan na kase namin yun the previous years. Kaya puro shopping ang ganap.

So far,  ok naman kami sa itinerary namin ngayon December 2019. 

On our second day, medyo maaga kami nagising sabi ko mag Dondon Dondonki muna kami since malapit lang din naman to sa hotel namin. (wala eto sa itinerary).  Lakad lang ng konti malapit na din sa TST along Nathan Road lang,  na madami kang mabibili from Japan na mga goodies. 

Sobrang kumpleto dito from batteries, to strawberries to sex toys opo ganun merun sa loob nakatago sya sa kurtina sa may bandang dulo left side malapit sa cashier, hahaha. 

maga ang mata sa kakatulog hahahaha

Pagtapos namin maglibot sa Dondon Donki nagutom na kami at nag breakfast sa dyaraaaan Cafe de Coral sa Carnarvon Plaza , wala kaming choice, pero masarap naman dito and mura pa. 

Pramis masarap ang hot milktea nila..

Pagtapos mag brekkie ayun at naexplore na din namin ang MTR jusmeee after one day ng lakaran ayoko ng maglakad pa ng madami at may 3 araw pa kmi itinerary..

TIPS
Swerte lang namin at naitago pa namin ang Octopus card namin before at nagpa reload na lang kami ng 150HKD sa Airport nila. Magagamit nyo din ang Octopus card sa 7-11, Bus, Cafe de Coral, McDo,  pede ka magpa reload sa 7-11. 

Most of the times, puro MTR talaga ang sasakyan mo or bus , kung nagtatapon ka ng pera, or may budget ka  and or may seniors kang kasama, taxi. 

Yung SIMCARD pede kayo bumili din sa airport , pero inavail namin eto sa Klook, mas mura at convenient pa. Pick up lang sa HK airport. Hindi po eto sponsored. Nag try din kami ng KKDay sa Disneyland. Next topic ko sa blog..

Anyway, nag MTR kami papunta sa Monster Building along Quarry Bay, madali lang sya hanapin pag naka MTR. Mag dl ka ng MTR app nila or google maps lang. 

Lakad konti at dyaraaaan ayan na si Monster Building, pumunta kayo dito ng maliwanag pa para makakuha kayo ng pwesto sa ilalim ng stairs na semento. Medyo tricky ang pag anggulo. Pero worth it kase maganda kalalabasan. Wag lang madaming tao at mahirap na umanggulo.

Pagkatapos ng pagkarami raming pictorial at posing , nagutom kami at nag try kami sa Ichiran along Causeway Bay na po eto. Maganda yung place kase tago. parang yung street yung napapanood ko sa mga action movies na papasok ang bida pag na corner. Hahaha.

Eto yung sa ibaba papunta ng Monster Bldg

Yung MTR nila na mabilis, maluwag at walang tulakan hahaha..nakakamiss

Yung lahat ng nasa MTR busyng busy sa phone

At syempre pichuran na naman hahaha

Naka smile pero PGng PG na sa gutom hahaha

Para safe,  ang inorder ko yung walang masyadong kaeklatan na ramen, I mean yung normal lang for a first timer like me sa Ichiran , pricey sya for a bowl 95HKD  hello naman. Tsaka di ko pa alam ang lasa pero pede mo icustomize sya. Tick lang ng tick sa order sheet..Ano ang aking verdict?? Kakaiba yung broth creamy, masarap. Di ko sya ma compare sa iba dahil naka customize every order. 

So after Ichiran naglakad lakad na kami looking for H&M, pero eto nakita namin  IKEA, Decathlon and Sephora yehey!!!

Nung ang buhok ko ay nakikisama pa 

Bago IKEA marami kaming nadaanan na SALE na makeup and skincare. Di ako masyadong na excite dahil meron pa akong Drunk Elephant , Kiehls and Shiseido. At mas tutok ako sa kung anong bag ang bibilhin ko.

TIP
Kung bibili ka ng make up or skincare mas okay na sa Sephora ka na mag shopping kase mas mura sila. Real talk yan. Yung Revlon Colorstay foundation nasa 150HKD lang sa kanila, sa ibang store like Sasa, Bonjour and Colourmix nasa 180HKD. 

yung nakipila sa Hermes, poser wahahaha

Pumasok din kami sa GU, Bershka at kung saan saan pa pagkatapos ng IKEA

Medyo napagod na ko sa IKEA, maraming okay na bilhin pero di namin alam kng magkakasya pa sya sa bagahe namin, nakabili lang kami ng potpourri and mga sako bags, hahaha.

Pagtapos umuwi na kami at patay gutom ako hahaha, kumain kami sa Food Republic along Nathan Road din malapit sa Jordan Station exit B. Okay din ang food choices nsa 50HKD pataas ang meal combo nila. Verdict: masarap!

PG ang peg jusko pero infer mesherep yung inorder kong meal combo chicken with

pata =) 

Day 3 to be continued...