It may just be one of those dumb internet factoids. But according to one internet search, the only major city farther away from Houston than Hong Kong is Perth, Australia.

It’s another way of saying that on my trip last week delivered me literally to the antipodes.

For many of my fellow Houstonians, traveling to Hong Kong for work, pleasure, or family is a workaday journey.

But for me, there was nothing quotidian about it. It wasn’t just my first trip to China but my first trip to Asia as well.

Here are some of the highlights from my unforgettable experience.

That’s a selfie, above, that I took at Victoria Peak, highly recommended.

Late night street food.

Dim sum at Yixin.

The James Suckling “Great Wines of Italy” tasting at the Four Seasons where I poured wines by my wonderful client Amistà.

A view of the island from the other side of the bay.

Superb Piedmontese cuisine at Castellana. This restaurant was extraordinary.

I had the opportunity to lead a class for Vino Condiviso, an awesome study group led by some of the city’s leading wine educators.

The audience for our class. The wine knowledge there is top.

Pork belly at Kin’s Kitchen. Excellent and corkage allowed.

My first taste of Chinese wine, a Bordeaux blend from clay soils. This wine was delicious, classic in style. Warm thanks to my friend Natalie, one of the best wine writers I know.

Osteria Marzia felt like the kind of place I would hang out if I lived there. Loved the vibe and the food.

Wine isn’t taxed in Hong Kong. Wine list prices were extremely reasonable. This drank great at Marzia!

Thank you to everyone I got to interact with in Hong Kong and thank you to Amistà for bringing me there! It was a great and unforgettable experience.