February 1999

Wild Camping Can Be Easy and Safe

     A big knapsack seems to be a 'must' to wild campers. But if they join the wild camp program organized by Leisure Club, they can go wild camping on a well-equipped site with just a tiny bag.

     "Our primary aim is to provide a wild camp program for families with children," said Mr. Wu Chi Hung, manager of the Club.

     It is difficult for modern couples, especially those with children, to go wild-camping.

     To make camping more convenient for them, the Club developed a site on a small island in Sai Kung with comprehensive facilities.

     For example, hygiene facilities including washrooms and bathrooms with hot water are provided.

     Also, there is no need to carry any big and heavy knapsack because tents, cooking utensils, food and drinks are prepared for campers.

     Said Mr. Wu: "Participants will be required to set up their own tents and cook by themselves. We will ask the children to collect fire wood and set the fire for barbecue with their parents."

     In addition, breakfast has to be prepared by the participants themselves, while they can eat in a wild and natural setting.

     These activities are aimed to offer chances for families to get better understanding with each other through cooperation.

     "The campers enjoy cooking in the wild," said Mr. Wu.

     Ms. Sam Yeung, 37, housewife, joined the program with her husband and her two children because she wished to have a family day in the form of wild camping.

     Ms. Yeung and her family were fully satisfied with the great variety of activities provided.

     Said Ms. Yeung: "The program was more interesting than I expected.

     "We could let our children experience wild camping without taking care of the troublesome preparation. It also enabled us to go wild camping without spending a lot of money on equipment which is rarely used.

     "On the other hand, it freed us from worrying about my children while they were enjoying exciting activities. Parents derived enjoyment and relaxation from the program as well."

     Though the fee is not low, Ms. Yeung thought that the program is worth trying.

     "I feel that I have become younger since I joined the program. It reminded me of the time when I went wild camping when I was still a student.

     "After I got married and had children, going wild camping became difficult.

     "However, this program gave us a convenient and safe wild camping experience."

     A more meaningful outcome of the program is closer relationship between parents and children.

     Mr. Wu said that family values are enhanced through cooperation among family members in activities like setting up tents and preparing meals.

     Ms. Yeung agreed: "Family relationship is strengthened because we had more chances to communicate and my children became more eager to talk to us.

     "My children were reluctant to leave when the program was over. They were proud of what they had managed to do.

     "They urged me to bring them there again and I have decided to do so," she said happily.

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