User:PeterKa
Back from Hong Kong
I'm back from Hong Kong and it was certainly quite a week to be there (Oct. 1-7). Hong Kong was once a British colony, but it has been ruled by China since 1997. The city has a unique "one country, two systems" form of government that allows a British-style legal system to continue despite the fact that the local government is now appointed by the Chinese Communist Party. There have been pro-democracy protests in the city for the past four months. The protests expanded dramatically after a decree banning masks took effect on Oct. 5. Vandalism was so intense that the entire subway system had to be closed.
Hong Kong has one of the most serious housing bubbles in history. Rising land values make the rich richer and leaves young couples without homes of their own. Everyone wants a piece of the action, including Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi has a villa in Hong Kong at Repulse Bay. When I talked to the protesters, I suggested that they take a look at that.
This barricade was built in Mongkok District on Oct. 5. Although defended by a catapult, the police had little trouble removing it.
While a puppet "chief executive" preens for the media, this tower in Sai Ying Pun is the city's real center of power. It is the "secret" headquarters of the Communist Party.
The subway has been overwhelmed by a wave of vandalism. This pane is at Mei Foo Station.
This poster addresses a phenomenon I find inscrutable: Why do the protesters attack the subway?
This is at a march in the Wanchai District, site of some of the most serious rioting. I wore a mask just in case the police launched another tear gas attack.
Dim sum is what Hong Kongers eat for breakfast.
Jenny Bakery in Mirador Mansion makes the city's favorite cookies.
You can get a magnificent view of the harbor aboard the white and green Hong Kong ferry.
