The love-hate relationship with Hong Kong

Hong Kong

THESE days, it is almost unheard of for anyone in Hong Kong to complain of overcrowded public places. The obnoxious tourists and a never-ending stream of business travellers thronging the streets and malls are no more, long faded into memories of better days for the suffering retail economy.

The local population has declined the most this year since the government started keeping records a half-century ago in 1961. This is certainly comfort for those preferring the peace and quiet. Pollution levels, including those from noise, have eased considerably. With the crowds out of the way, does that mean the experience of living in Hong Kong has turned for the better? Has the city become more bearable? Famous restaurants are readily available for booking any day, with seats available even for walk-in diners - even if it means less budding excitement for that highly anticipated meal.