Am I really in a former British colony?

Welcome and thank you to those friends & family who read my blog. 

This Friday morning, the weather is less hot and humid. More comfortable! But I left for work later than usual (at 8:30am rather than 7-7:30am). Its so crowded at this time, especially Central. I almost could not exit the train!

In general the people walk *inconsistently* here. Some people walk super fast and push you over. Others are STROLLING. Also they inconsistently walk on the right or left side of any stairway or aisle. Is this really a former British colony? Shouldn't people walk on the left? Even the arrows on the ground are inconsistent!


My observation is that people are really good at making money here. For example, even though I get a free California Fitness membership with my service apartment, the gym keeps calling me for my "free" orientation visit. Maybe they're trying to upgrade my membership, or sell me a nice logo towel or clothes?  I will try to resist as I get free towels at my apartment, and would never be caught dead in gym logo clothes outside! And food shops do not provide tissues/napkins! This way, the owner will take money more profit by spending less. I need to go to Watsons and buy some travel tissues. Shrewd.


Yesterday and Today (Friday) I am forgetful. If you recall, I showed up an hour early at my tax consultant appointment. Also I forgot to bring my HKID card, which I needed then and later for my PCCW mobile phone / blackberry registration! Oops. Anyway I scanned it today.  I also sent all my colleagues my temporary HK mobile number, and today, I FORGOT my mobile at home! Thank God its Friday (TGIF!).  I hope I don't forget my customer visit this afternoon (let me make a note now!).


Overall, I like Hong Kong. Its a busy and bustling place, extremely efficient, at times hot, but the food choices are good and relatively affordable. The inconsistent walking kills me though :)  I may do a bit of shopping and unpacking this weekend (after my darn gym orientation), then try to eat a bit more out of my fridge... I didn't even open it yesterday!