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Published: November 16th 2007
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Sat Nov 10 to Mon. Nov 12 (Weekend in HK)
“Nihao” from Hong Kong! (that’s Cantonese for 'Hello')
We boarded from Osaka to the comfort of our private jet. This plane has become our own living room, (but with better wine)
Our lovely Icelandic Air hostesses dressed in Kimonos today to welcome us with the usual champagne. (I guess they got the kimono idea from us).
Hong Kong has an energy and spirit unlike anywhere else. Those of you who have been here know it is a unique, glittering, glitzy city of contrasts. One is constantly overwhelmed by the sights, sounds and smells of the streets. Like every great world city it exudes it's own sense of style and excitement.
The rich are richer than anywhere else in the world. Would you believe there is even a Mercedes Maybach dealership on Hong Kong Island? Luxury cars abound, homes on the Peak cost (upward of $20 million U.S.), and towering buildings seem to reach the sky, so on the surface, the overt wealth seems staggering.
However in this city of over 7 million, sadly, almost half live in poverty. Apartment blocks comprised of units of only one room, with
only one window are called “pidgeon holes”. These tiny spaces house large families. Many people sleep outside in the summer to escape the fetid air inside. There is a burgeoning middle class, but entry to Hong Kong from mainland China is difficult and limited.
Even though Hong Kong was returned to China over 10 years ago from the 99-yearlong British lease, it still governs itself independently from the mainland.
Views from the almost vertical Peak Tramway ascent and at the top of the city are breathtaking. All lit at night in every possible colour of neon, the skyline pulses along with this frenetic city. We dined at the famous Cafe Deco at the summit, and enjoyed the views on our first evening and then spent some time wandering the fascinating streets near our hotel.
HK is a shopper’s paradise, ----famous Stanley Market, the Ladies’ Market, and the Night Market with a flavour all its' own,. as well as the huge shopping malls, custom made clothing and fancy boutiques, all beckon.
There is a total assault on the senses here, ( especially olfactory). Ironically Hong Kong means “Fragrant Harbour” which it is not. Since neither of us
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Poster at the Star Ferry enjoy Chinese food, we have nothing memorable to report in the food department. Even though there are wonderful cosmopolitan restaurants here, due to limited time, we didn’t have an opportunity to try them this visit.
However, M.E. scored in the shopping department with a gorgeous handmade cut work linen table cloth (actually, she claims it was the entire reason for her trip)…(Note to Harvey, Lindsay bought Nothing. Really. )
Some tidbits you may or may not know. The Chinese people are very superstitious. We learned that the number 9 is for long life and # 99 is the very best of luck. (Sort of like our # 18, Chai). Forget number 4...big problem. You don't even want to know.
Avoid the colour green for a hat—it means you are a cuckold. But a green roof on a house is very good luck (go figure)
Jackie Chan, the famous actor lives in the Harbour facing water for long life, with mountains behind him for strength and power. The number of his house is 9 and it has a green roof.. Very good “Feng Shui”.
By the way the wealthy hire Feng Shui masters to facilitate the process of
being sure their homes are appropriately "feng shuied"
We could go on and on about Hong Kong, but for now we'll just say " XieXie" (that's "Thank you " in Cantonese) for reading our blog and say "Ziagian" (good bye). for now. Enjoy the pix.
Now on to our next stop…….Vietnam.
F.Y.I. We're still having a few access problems, so this may be a little late getting to you..Thank you for your responses--.Cindy, Ellen, Lois, Nancy and Maya, and our respective sisters Kare and Care, (M.E. has 4 and Linds has 1 ) and of course, to our lovng husbands, Sending you all our love.
We look forward to hearing from you soon
Love and hugs. xxoo
Lindsay and MaryEllen
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ruth halperin
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we're on our way to the airport and Melbourne. We feel like we're right there with you-you are both amazing bloggers. Glad you're having such a ball- very inspiring! You rock ladies! xoxox