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Hong Kong Vibrance Hong Kong was full of life and variety. The difference was striking. In mainland China, constant cameras, drones, police, and a secretiveness throughout. Hong Kong had restaurants, places to go without feeling like we were being watched. There was nearly zero evidence of the October 1 celebration of the PRC's 70th anniversary. Did find out that they keep a close watch on dog walking, which could result in a $200 fine for dog messes, all via closed circuit. |
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Shopping Shopping, finally! The Stanley Market was on the "wealthy" side of the island, so I'm especially glad we went there. It was the first non-western "wealthy" section in China. I don't know why I kept calling HK an island, but it had its own currency, and seemed to think of itself as its own country. Bought a chop in the market. It was made of stone, marble I think, and he carved in my business logo in 15 minutes. |
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Trouble in River City Photos on October 1 from my 17th floor hotel window. Riots, fires, guns popping out tear gas. It was an unforgettable afternoon. Our hotel was on Hennessey, on the path of the protesters. It was peaceful for the first couple of hours, but turned nasty as the afternoon wore on. All businesses were closed (so no food!) and the hotel's lobby doors were taped closed so tear gas and burning tire smoke didn't fill the lobby. I'll never forget the sound of the guns firing. |