Today when I mentioned having visited a notorious landmark in Hong Kong, the Chung King Mansions, a city native responded, “Wow. I’ve never been there but I’ve seen it on TV.” Now it’s quite understandable why someone might not want to visit a place known for its seedy stores and questionable activities. Nevertheless I find it interesting that life-long locals have often never visited the very places in their neighborhoods which tourist come to see. It’s the New Yorker who has never visited the Statue of Liberty or, closer to my own home town, the Pittsburgher who has never visited Falling Water.
As I settle into Hong Kong I’ve often silently promised myself that I’ll continue to explore this amazing city, visiting all the sites and scenes that others travel around the world to glimpse. Likewise, wherever you may happen to be, consider the local treasures that out of familiarity have failed to attract you. Someday you may find yourself on the other side of the world unable to turn the corner and visit them. I’ve yet to visit Falling Water myself.
§Commentary
Well the analogy of never visiting say, Falling Water compared to a place in Hong Kong that is consisted “seedy” may have been better compared to the Hill District in Pittsburgh.
I’ve never been to Falling Water either… I do however, drive through the Hill District almost everyday :) I’ll take you on a tour when you get back