Ladder Street

Hey Everyone,

So, not too long ago, Aunt P and I were walking around and we stumbled upon Ladder Street. I had heard a lot about ladder streets, but I did not realize that there was an actual street named "Ladder Street". Ladder streets make reference to the spaces that were built as pedestrian corridors which allowed people to move from one lateral street to the next, via several flights of stairs.

The actual Ladder Street

Along these pedestrian spaces and smaller streets were a bunch of little shops selling "traditional" and old fashioned knik knaks. Now, I'm not one to usually wander into an antique shop, but how could I not browse what was already around me. Some of the items on display were really neat. All of the shop keepers were happy that I was taking an interest in their items and many made small talk as we examined their wares.

These are bracelet cases that were designed
to protect Jade Bracelets, personally I think they look like
colourful bagels

Making small talk with the store owners was very interesting. Many were happy to share some history behind specific items, but I think that it was because Aunt P was so friendly that they felt inclined to give me a short history lesson.

Now, this has been mentioned time and time again, and I don't quite understand it, but apparently I don't look full Chinese. Since I've arrived here in Hong Kong I can recall at least 5 occurrences in which my ethnicity has been put into question. The latest one though I had to share and this was from one of the shop keepers. Please note that I am paraphrasing this:

"I don't mean to be rude, but you don't look Chinese. It must be the different food, and being exposed to all [the Caucasian] people that your face has changed to look like them"~ Street Vendor

He of course said this jokingly,... I think. I find these comments amusing, only because half the time people make them without realizing that I can understand them. There will probably be another post on the collection of phrases that I've overheard but you'll have to be patient with me.

A fish shaped lock

This was just a sample of all the cool things that were available for sale. I mean, look at the detail! Each scale was engraved and this thing was massive, as large as my palm. I had to seriously consider whether or not I should have bought this trinket, but the weight itself deterred me from wanting to carry it around. What does one use a massive fish shaped lock for anyway?!... oh wait I know! Paperweight!

Dragon Statues

Among the many things that I wanted to get my hands on were a few dragon statues. I know, its completely typical for me to want something that has no use what-so-ever, but look at them, they were just begging to be bought. (No dad, I didn't buy them... but it would have made an awesome paperweight... not that I need any more)

One of the many shops that displayed their merchandise

I can safely say that I did not return with a bag full of new souvenirs, but for future reference, for those of you in Winnipeg, if you see something you like, let me know and I'll keep an eye out for you.