Is Hong Kong safe?
Despite the teargas tango, it's a crying shame that travellers have fled. Some incredible deals may yet tempt many back
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HONG KONG is at a crossroads as a new generation struggles to come to terms with the "One Country Two Systems" concept that has curiously underpinned this dynamic city since the handover to China in July 1997.
It has brought teargas, tension, tears and confusion. The city has been flagged in a barrage of advisories - from the United States and Canada to Finland, Ireland, Japan, Singapore and New Zealand. Visitor cancellations are estimated at over 30 per cent since June, crashing retail, and forcing hotels to cut staff. While all these advisories state low levels of risk it is cold comfort to would-be peripatetics.
Through all this, the city has remained "safe" for travellers who employ the one tool that works best - common sense.
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