Gone skiing

Let me assure all you shoppers out there, that Hong Kong is still the great shopping mecca of this part of the world. Every big name retailer is here, and not just with one branch All the big hotel chains have large shopping centres attached, Ferragamo, Fendi, Chanel--all the gang. And you see the names over and over. The rents are very high, apparently, so the prices are not bargains as far as I am concerned. I am not a shopper by nature so this is not an expert account. Between the big new beautiful hotels, office towers, wide streets, are literally millions little street vendors, and markets so there is something for all. Hong Kong has 7 million people in this crowded area, and goodness knows how many visitors so I guess there are lots of customers. Some of the group found some real bargains by hoping a train and going over the border into China. There are sort of outlet stores there where they sell seconds from the factories. These are not knock offs, but last years styles etc. At least that is the claim!
We have had a grand time exploring all over Kowloon and Hong Kong. And we haven't really scratched the surface. Although distances are short, the streets are so crowded, and traffic so heavy it takes awhile to find things. I am still in awe of the metro system and know that the bus system is exceptionally good as well. And the prevalence of English pretty much everywhere makes this a good place for a North American visitor. So exploring is fun. It you get lost you can just ask for help from most.
We were treated last night to a Harbour Dinner cruise. All the meals have been varied and exceptionally good. This is such a cosmopolitan city that there is something for all to eat. We have seen vegetarian option offered everywhere. This is not just a current"fad" practice, but a way to look after those whose dietary religious laws require same. The theory is it is good for business to make everyone happy!
The shear magic of the Harbour all light up leaves one quite breathless. And every night at 8 o'clock, there is a light show in the Harbour. There are lazer lights on both sides of the water, the lights play off each other accross the way and race up and down the building sides. And music plays at the same time. Hundreds line up to stop and stare.
To come tomorrow: Our trip to Macau and lasting thoughts from Hong Kong.
as ever Katie