Hello All;

I recently just returned from an incredible trip to Hong Kong and Beijing. Although both destination were awesome, I have to mention the special time that my wife Colleen and I had in Hong Kong.

Being a member of the IPA I reached out, a few weeks before going on the trip, to my IPA rep who in turn made the required request to the National Travel Secretary who in turn made contact with the Hong Kong IPA Vice President.

What I was asking for was recommendations for a hotel and sites that might be of interest.

The reply that I received was unexpected and very much appreciated. Not only did I get a great hotel recommendation but was also advised that I would have Hong Kong IPA hosts for two days while in Hong Kong.

The first Hong Kong IPA host was Ray Lau, a serving sergeant. He met us after his shift ended and took us a tour of the Hong Kong Police Headquarters. Very impressive. It reviles any police headquarters that I have seen during my 33 year police career. During dinner at the police headquarters’ dining room Ray explained the Hong Kong Police organizational structure and how things work in Hong Kong. What was also nice while having dinner was the opportunity to watch the evening light show along the Hong Kong Harbour.

After the visit to the police headquarters Ray took us on a walking tour, on our way to the subway station, and pointed out some very impressive building and some background about each one.

The subway. The Hong Kong subway was trip in itself. Very impressive.

We ended the night with the sights and sounds of the Temple Street Market. Truly a night to remember.

The next day we were met at our hotel by retired Hong Kong Police Inspector Frankie Wong. We started the day by having tea and dumplings at the Hong Kong Police Recreation Centre. What an amazing facility. Besides the formal dining room and bar with a band, this facility offered just about every type of sport or activity that you can think of.

While having tea Frankie took the time to share with us the history of the Hong Kong Police and we each talked each of our families. The rest of the day was spent walking the streets of Hong Kong visiting many of the shops and street food vendors. The afternoon was wrapped up with a visit the Ladies Market. It was an excellent day.

I hope someday I can return the hospitality to the Hong Kong IPA and to Ray Lau and Frankie Wong.

A big thank you to all for making this a most memorable trip.

Peter & Colleen Abi-Rashed