On November 4, 2019, FHTM students (DE3 – 5) of “Travel and Hotel Service Management” and DE1 of “Travel Agency Operations and Management” participated in a day tour, organized and guided by Dr. Salott Chau, to Tai O fishing village which is renowned as “Hong Kong Venetian” and Tai O Heritage Hotel which has granted the Asia Pacific Awards of Cultural Heritage Conservation from UNESCO. This educational tour provided students with opportunity to experience the convenience of the transportation of “Hong Kong Zhuhai and Macao Bridge”; the original feature of Tai O fishing village and the history and characteristics of the Tai O Heritage Hotel; and the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery.
Tai O is in the western part of Lantau Island in Hong Kong. Its unique style of fishing village is formed by its water passages and water sheds. The hut looks simply, but it's durable. The huts were built by woods which have received special treatments. The huts can last for at least 50 years or even 70 years.
Tai O Heritage Hotel, located on the hill next to the ferry pier on Shichai street, Tai O, Lantau Island, was once used by the British marine police to inspect the sea area. It has a history of more than 100 years and it’s a second-class heritage owned by the government. The main building of the hotel is full of traces of historical relics; guns, flagpoles in the square, air raid shelters and bullet holes behind the main building – signifying the history of this building.
The front desk is transformed from the reception room of the original marine police station. The hotel rooms were rebuilt from the office, dormitory and mechanical warehouse that now consist of perfect internal facilities and excellent views. The restaurant is built on the second floor, which is a transparent glass building. In order to solve the problem of mosquito density, many anti-mosquito lamps are placed around the main building, which greatly reduces the invasion of mosquitoes. Tai O Heritage Hotel is a conservation hotel. Its purpose is to protect cultural relics, promote culture and create jobs for local people.
This was the first time the students visiting this non-profit conservation Hotel, with conservative and unique cultural history. The design is extremely innovative, and the services are attentive. This was a good opportunity for them to be in touch of the natural feature of a busy Hong Kong and observe the historical value of the Tai O Heritage Hotel; the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery; a valuable experiential learning and an enjoyable journey to the participants indeed.
