Jayden's Blogs

Hong Kong is a special administrative region on the southeastern coast of China, a former British dependency; population est. 7,346,600. The area comprises Hong Kong Island, ceded by China in 1841; the Kowloon peninsula, ceded in 1860; and the New Territories, additional areas of the mainland that were leased for 99 years in 1898. The June 1, 1997 transfer of sovereignty to China after 156 years of colonial rule in many ways, but for a few far flung little known remnants, effectively represented the end of the British Empire. Concern about the future of Hong Kong under China has, to a large extent, been dispelled. Officially known as a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, it enjoys a high degree of autonomy independent of most laws of mainland China. Agreement reached at handover guarantees the same previous rights and freedoms for a period of 50 years, including an independent political and judicial system in the British tradition. Hong Kong has become one of the world's major financial and manufacturing centers.

In spite of dire predictions at the time of the British handover, Chicken Little was wrong and the sky has not fallen on Hong Kong. Rather, the skyline still dazzles, capitalism thrives, and the same daily pulse beats on in the Pearl of the East. It has retained its reputation as the culinary capital of Asia with a diversity of cultural gastronomic tastes. The wide range of shopping choices at markets, boutiques, bazaars, antique stores, and upscale malls continue to tempt even the most jaded shopper. And as final proof that all is still right with the world, the Star Ferry, founded in 1888, still cheaply carries 70,000 passengers a day for the short hop between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Hong Kong shows no indication of either changing or slowing down anytime soon.

The crowding situation is made worse since numerous hills and limited flatlands mean that only 25 per cent of its landmass can be developed. Forced to grow up rather than out has earned its nickname as the world’s most vertical city. And my opinion as one of the most EXPENSIVE cities in the world :) Cheers!