East meets West

Though it sits on China’s south coast, and is ethnically 95% Chinese, Hong Kong is perhaps just as much western metropolis as it is an East-Asia hub. Owing to nearly 300 years of British influence, this staunchly capitalist city has prospered with low tax rates and a free economy. In 1997, although the Brits transferred the city’s sovereignty to mainland China, Hong Kong retained its same basic governance and freedoms that it has had under British authority.

It’s a fascinating mash up of influence. Education, politics, and law all follow their basic counterparts in England. Other aspects of the city more closely relate to mainland China – food, entertainment and spiritual beliefs.

East meets West aside, Hong Kong is simply one of the most well developed cities on earth.  Efficient transportation, towering skyscrapers, and often overwhelming density.

As the routine goes, click here for this gallery of Hong Kong.