Since I started blogging a few years ago, I've learned a lifetime-worth of information about Hong Kong in the 1960s: Russian restaurants, Kai Tak airport, and various hotels. My heart always races (in a good way) when people from around the world e-mail me or send in comments … [Read more...]
Looking back at Hong Kong 50 years ago
If you've been following this site much, you'll notice I love anniversaries: the 100th anniversary of Double Ten, the 100th anniversary of the Republic of China, and the various anniversaries of the Fall of Saigon and the Hong Kong Handover. I suppose I'm into these milestones … [Read more...]
Thankful for small spaces
I love big cities and would usually choose to vacation in one over a secluded beach (although I'm changing a bit in my old age). What I find fascinating about super huge cities (or really densely populated ones) is the appreciation of small spaces.Because even for people who … [Read more...]
Once upon a time in Mongkok
At first glance, the scene on this Hong Kong postcard appears relatively recent. Without cars to identify the era, it's hard to tell when the photo was taken.The neon looks familiar, as do the buildings. But at closer look, I recognize certain shops and hotels from the 1960s. … [Read more...]
Variation on a theme
I found this photo of Nathan Road from a 1972 Hong Kong guidebook. It didn't take me long to recognize familiar landmarks from the photos I've posted of 1962 and 1966 Kowloon.The "EL" in the upper right corner looked familiar, like the same font used in the Sun Ya Hotel where … [Read more...]