As a kid, watching the movie “The World of Suzy Wong” in San Francisco was a magical experience for me. It took me to a place I had never dreamed of—Hong Kong. Just hearing the name of the city made me smile One of the most unforgettable moments in the film was when the scene was set on the famous Star Ferry called “Twinkling Star.” I loved that name and often daydreamed about what it would be like to be riding that ferry.
Fast forward many years, and what do you know?
One day I was standing at the Star Ferry Terminal in Hong Kong, waiting to board that ferry for the first time. The ride offers up one of the great bargains in the world, especially if you opt to ride in second class, which is on the main deck. Occasionally I’d splurge and go first class on the top deck, but that wasn’t where Suzy (and Bill Holden) rode, so neither would I.
I lived in Hong Kong with my family for four years and, over that time, had ample opportunity to ride the many Star Ferries back and forth. I’d often wait for the next one if it happened to be “Twinkling Star.” My daughters thought I was nuts, but in time, they also understood my quirks (one of many, I assure you.) Who knew how much that movie would affect my life?
Are we there yet? 