Welcome | Hong Kong | Monocle issue 33

A great article to share

Hong Kong. A gleaming steel and glass powerhouse where the world’s financial forces converge on Asia, a neon edifice of connectivity and consumer culture, a place where customs mix and people live their lives in fast-forward.

While this image of city is certainly true, it doesn’t tell half the story. From Alex Daye and Ellis Kreuger’s fresh designs at boutique Moustache in Sheung Wan and Que Vinh Dang’s innovative dishes at TBLS in Central to chief secretary Henry Tang’s push to develop West Kowloon into a bustling art and culture district, there’s an inspiring drive by Hong Kongers to make their city an even more vibrant place to live.

The search for a better quality of life also takes Hong Kongers off the frequently cramped high-rise of Hong Kong island and into the hills of New Territories. Here neighbourhoods in Sai Kung and Clear Water Bay offer alternative view of one of the most densely populated cities on earth, with spacious residences surrounded by jungle and pristine beaches.

Hong Kong’s geography is more than pretty panorama. Sitting on the doorstep of the world’s fastest growing economy, Hong Kong is in a unique linguistic, historical and cultural position and bears the key to China’s door. Hong Kong is building even closer ties with its first high spped rail link to the mainland, deepening the economic relationship that has strengthened since the 1997 hand-over.

Perhaps more than eve, the city needs to be one its toes as everyone across Asia is vying for financial pole position and cultural credibility. Hong Kong may have enviable geographical advantage but this needs to be defended from regional competition on all fronts.