The love-hate relationship with Hong Kong
With some intertwined annoyances and pleasures gone, the city has lost a certain kick
Add BT as a preferred source
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.
Decoding Asia newsletter: your guide to navigating Asia in a new global order. Sign up here to get Decoding Asia newsletter. Delivered to your inbox. Free.
Share with us your feedback on BT's products and services
TRENDING NOW
True Fitness, True Yoga close all outlets; liquidators start winding-up process
DBS chief Tan Su Shan rules out entering politics, calls for diverse talent to boost policy debate
Ng family’s Far East group sells Watten Estate property for S$84.2 million to Aurum Land
‘The answers are all uncertain’: True Singapore ex-employees in limbo over salaries, CPF contributions for September
