But after winning a United World College Scholarship, the 17-year-old Saltus graduate will be spending the next two years of his life there.

"When I saw the options I chose Hong Kong because it's completely on the other side of the planet,'' he says.

"Hong Kong is as far away as I can imagine. Everywhere I have ever travelled so far has been very Westernised -- but this gave me the opportunity to do something completely different. I've never been to Asia and I'm hoping it's going to be a culture shock.'' "I wanted to go because of a sense of adventure, the chance to experience something new and unimaginable. I am hoping that it will be something completely different from anything I have ever experienced.'' Adrian will be leaving for Hong Kong at the start of September.

"I just can't wait to get off the Island and get there,'' he says. "I love Bermuda, but I really feel the need to go out and see more of the world.

"A lot of people had been telling me it was a really great programme and opportunity of a lifetime. They said I'd be suited for it, so I thought I'd check it out.'' Adrian is planning on throwing himself wholeheartedly into Chinese life.

"I should get a chance to travel to mainland China and get a real feel for the Asian environment. I'll be taking courses in Cantonese also. I figure it will be useful since a third of the world speaks it!'' Adrian was one of four young Bermudians to win a scholarship from United World College this year.