Day 3 - Jet lag (Monday)

Today I'm so thankful for living on the West Coast of the US - makes the time difference to Hong Kong less painful. Yes you instantly lose a day the minute you begin your flight but then you get 8 hours to sleep in before the next day starts.

Very happy last night I decided not to venture out into the darkness of Hong Kong. This morning I am able to get my baring a little bit and decided to use today as time to acclimate to the climate. The plan - follow the water east and go until I reach an end then cross over the water, go down a few dark and maybe scary streets, work my way generally west and to finish the day off, eventually find a way to cross the water back to the hotel. I'm a great planner if I do say so myself.

Good morning Hong Kong

Looking towards the old airport which is the new cruise terminal

Christmas lights appearing on more buildings

This city seems to have a bit of a struggle happening with the direction it's headed. Parts want to remain traditional with nods to the long history of this area while other places want to be new, modern, "cold". There's no question walking around today that the youth of this area are wanting exclusively Western things (electronics, clothing styles, etc). Construction is everywhere!

	Remind anyone else of Vegas?	Store was packed with kids shopping
Disneyland HK is sponsoring this Christmas display in celebration of their 10th anniversary

I'd like to know how in the world the people here remain so slim given the amazing food that's everywhere! The most delicious pastries & noodles are in every dish. What took me a bit back was the fact most prices are near-US prices even for items which shipped from the States.

	Most items are $6USD
Roughly $2USD

The city does an amazing job of ensuring there are green open spaces quite often within the ever higher buildings. Hong Kong is also a city where basically no one drives. Some take taxi's but most use the subway or various boats. And why would you want to drive given how close everything is to anything you'd possibly want. Plus, you'd miss a stroll past so much nature that just happens (read: not a caged display)