HKG NYE 2018

I’ve visited Hong Kong (HKG) for New Year’s Eve (NYE) party in 2018. And I came back with great impressions: the Chinese markets and foods mixed with English bars and modern clubs. Beach, harbour and port all in one. Amazing modern architecture and buildings combined with old and modern handcraft shops and workshops every where. Young street musicians at any corner and beautiful parks to rest, relax, making sport or play.

You can find the portfolio in the following galleries: Cityscapes | Streetscapes | Working Streets | Nightlife.

Nevertheless, something strange was already in the air, but you couldn’t tell it.
There were some little demonstrations everywhere in the city. But it was still at NYE where the police was helping the people to spot the fireworks. I was strolling around to enjoy the great atmosphere in the streets and to find my place to watch the fireworks.

I’ve found a great spot, but there were so many people on the street, that it was impossible to keep your place while waiting for hours until the HKG NYE 2018 fireworks would start. So I went back to the hotel to view the fireworks from the roof top bar. I just wanted to warm up and refresh myself in the room and then go up to the party.
For sure I woke up the next morning, just in time to visit the Lion and Dragon Dance Festival and Extravaganza (→) at the harbour.

Finally and unfortunately the overall situation escalated into protests in the course of the year 2019 – see also the BBC The Hong Kong protests explained in 100 and 500 words (→) and the Human Rights Watch reportage (→).
For me it was very hard to watch the scenes on television.
The police method to work with banners was the same when directing the people to the best viewing spots of the NYE firework. But this time they where threatening severe violence to people demonstrating for their human right of freedom.

My thoughts and sympathy are with the people. It is them who make this great city to what it is, simply amazing. I’m crossing my fingers, may be they will still win at the end!

Yours
Sven Michael