Delayed Start

Hong Mutha Fuckin Kong

I planned on getting this thing going over two weeks ago when I got back from my Southeast Asia excursion, however I've been so busy getting settled and exploring that I haven't been able to sit down and start this up until now. I hope to keep this updated as much as possible.

So, I'm living in an apartment in Sham Shui Po, an area of old Hong Kong.  It's not exactly what I expected; however it has turned out to be a great place to truly experience HK culture. The walk from the apartment building to the MTR (metro) offers a vast assortment of street vendors and plenty of local activity.  Vendors sell everything from knock off clothes & local cuisine to used cell phones and telescopes.  Some vendors seem to be running a permanent garage sale.  Fortunately we are only five blocks from a MTR station so getting around has not been a problem.   

The MTR is a whole story in itself.  Asian people seem to have no concept of lines or order and just push and cut you off at any opportunity possible.   Unlike the US where people shy away from getting close to one another on public transport, HK residents squeeze onto each train  Being a foot taller than everyone around me has had its advantages in these situations. People are all at perfect elbow throwing level.  It’s quite strange being the tallest and whitest person on a train looking over 500 people down all the compartments.  However the MTR is extremely well air-conditioned and offers a pleasant escape from the constant humidity of Hong Kong. 

The first few days consisted of orientations and getting acquainted with the local area, people, university (City University of Hong Kong), and my matchbox of a room. <--(Since this room and closet set-up I have moved to a much roomier space). 

During these first few days before leaving for SE Asia, Hong Kong was hosting the equestrian events of the Beijing Olympics. Even though I have no real interest in any equestrian events I thought it was a necessary experience.  Anyways we went on the last night and lucky for us it was the dressage. This consisted of horses parading around performing timed trots and skips.  By far the worst of all the events we could of seen.  After an hour or so that even drinking couldn’t entertain, we decided to leave.