Travel has a beautiful way of weaving faith, family, culture, and discovery into one unforgettable tapestry. Our journey across Hong Kong, Macau, Chongqing, and Shanghai, spanning Christmas 2025 to New Year 2026, was exactly that, a blend of sacred moments, modern marvels, ancient history, and warm human connections.
Day 1: Christmas in Hong Kong – Faith, Crowds & Comfort Food
Christmas Day began on a deeply meaningful note at Rosary Church, Hong Kong. As an ardent Christian, attending Christmas Mass is non-negotiable, and the serenity of the church set the tone for the celebrations ahead.
After breakfast at the Sheraton, we walked to the pier and took a ferry to Hong Kong Island. The Hop-On Hop-Off bus took us through the city, but once we hopped off at Victoria Park, Causeway Bay, we were swept into overwhelming Christmas crowds. It was chaotic, festive, and intense.
Seeking refuge, we ducked into a tiny, unassuming restaurant, and found the most delightful surprise: an authentic Christmas lunch. Sometimes the best meals are found far away from the spotlight.
Day 2: Hong Kong to Shenzhen – Robots, Borders & Plum Cake
Day two took us from Kowloon to Shenzhen. Immigration and customs involved long queues as it was the holiday season and we missed our train, but the delay led us to an unexpected highlight, the UBTECH Technology Centre. There, Viki introduced us to the fascinating world of robotics, showcasing China’s technological prowess.
Ubtech Technologies is one of the most prominent global players in humanoid and smart service robots. UBTECH robots are deployed in many countries across education, industry, and customer service applications.
The return journey to Hong Kong was thankfully smooth, reminding us that immigration between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, especially for foreigners, is strictly passport-based and requires patience.
Back in Hong Kong, the streets near our hotel were alive with revellers. Later that night, temptation won. A plum Christmas cake, was waiting for us in the hotel since Christmas Eve. It finally met its destiny. For every Christian family, plum cake is tradition and I indulged generously into it well into the early hours, completing my Christmas celebration in the sweetest way possible.
Day 3: Islands, Buddha & City Lights
We set out with Mini and Bram on a Hong Kong Lantau island tour, led by Sydney our tour guide. Our first stop was the Tai O Fishing Village, bustling with life and with an astonishing variety of fresh seafood.
Next came Ngong Ping Village and the majestic Big Buddha. The climb involved 268 steps, Mini and Bram tackled them bravely with Sydney, while Vasu and I chose a quieter vantage point. We also visited the serene Po Lin Monastery, soaking in the calm.
The evening unfolded beautifully with drinks at the Sheraton Sky Lounge (17th floor), offering stunning city views, followed by dinner at the Hyatt’s Chinese restaurant.
Day 4: Macau – Gondolas, Games & Goose
A ferry ride took us to Macau. Macau is very different from Hong Kong with Portuguese architecture, churches, cobbled streets, and Chinese temples side by side. We stayed at the iconic Venetian Hotel, a grand replica of Venice complete with gondola rides. Luck was on our side with Vasu on a roll at the gaming tables, winning plenty of free games, and for once, I too had a winning streak.
Dinner was at Marmeleira Seafood Restaurant, where Bram finally enjoyed the goose dish he had been eagerly anticipating.
Day 5: Flying to Chongqing – Above the Clouds
We took a shuttle bus to Macau International Airport and flew to Chongqing. Our hotel lobby which was on the 52nd floor was slightly unnerving, but Room 4126 rewarded us with breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Day 6: Dazu Rock Carvings & Hotpot Heaven
We stayed at The Westin and took a private tour to the magnificent Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the 9th–13th centuries, the intricate Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian carvings etched into cliff faces were awe-inspiring. The two-hour drive was absolutely worth it.
Lunch was at Lotus Panda Time, followed by a must-do Chongqing experience—hotpot dinner at Liberation Square. The meal was unforgettable, and what stood out most was the hospitality. Despite our insistence, tipping was firmly refused; payment was to be made only at the cashier—polite, professional, and principled.
As New Year’s Eve approached, Chongqing prepared for celebration. Thousands of revellers gathered on the streets with balloons and wearing costumes to ring in 2026, a breathtaking celebration of laser lights and drones showcasing Chongqing’s 8D city.
Day 7: Chongqing City Tour & New Year’s Eve
Another private tour revealed the city’s unique urban design, starting with the train that passes through residential buildings. Lunch was at the International Trade Centre, followed by a visit to Ancient Chongqing City, where we watched a cultural show featuring shadow play and traditional folk performances.
Due to New Year’s Eve traffic diversions, we returned to the hotel by evening. Liberation Square was overflowing with revellers. Vasu and I walked hand in hand—not for romance, but for support, navigating the crowd as seniors. Eventually, we found a restaurant with an English menu and enjoyed a comforting meal of shrimp, chicken, and garlic-flavoured lettuce—simple, satisfying, and memorable.
Day 8: Chongqing to Shanghai
We flew Juneyao Air to Shanghai via a stunning airport. A minor hiccup occurred when Mini’s power bank—made in China but purchased in the USA—was confiscated at security, a reminder of strict regulations.
Day 9: Shanghai – Heights, History & River Lights
Shanghai welcomed us with grandeur. Our first stop was the Shanghai Tower- 180 floors, reaching the 180th floor in just one minute. We then explored the oldest part of Shanghai near the river, visited a traditional tea house, and ended the day with a magical Huangpu River cruise, watching the city light up after dusk.
Day 10: Water Village & Temple Calm
A private tour took us to a picturesque Water Village, offering a glimpse into old-world China.
Jing’an Temple Complex
Day 11: A Gentle Pause
Our final day was a rest day. We strolled along Nanjing Road, visited a toy shop, and spent time in a bookstore—simple pleasures to wind down an extraordinary journey.
Reflections: What Stayed With Me
The friendliness of the people, especially their affection for babies-little Eden was a star wherever we went
Efficient immigration and customs, remarkably smooth despite the crowds
Cultural nuances-our guide Fay shared how Chinese locals usually wear white, cream, or black, and how wearing bright colours once led to questioning
Astonishing infrastructure, technology, and electronics
Exceptional food, rich in flavour and variety
A clear cultural norm: no tipping expected in restaurants
A Journey to Remember
From Christmas Mass in Hong Kong to New Year celebrations in Chongqing, this journey was not just about places—it was about faith, family, resilience, discovery, and gratitude. As we crossed borders and cultures, what remained constant was the joy of being together and the privilege of witnessing a world so vast, vibrant, and welcoming.
Dr. Daphne Pillai, CO-Founder of Pillai Group of Institutions was the recipient of the ASSOCHAM WOMAN ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR AWARD at the ‘Women’s Leadership and Empowerment Summit’ held in New Delhi on 13th November, 2019.
The award was conferred on her by the Hon. Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani. more…
