And Then Some News

Thursday's Essay Preview

This is the eighth of 17 essays that cover our Southeast Asia cruise (March, 2010).  The first paragraph of the eighth essay reads as follows:  "It is 4:10 p.m., and our ship will be leaving soon for Taiwan.  We are anchored just beyond the entrance to Victoria Harbour away from the sea lane, and if I were to write about Hong Kong based on what I can see around the ship from here, this essay would consist of nothing — nothing but a gray mist.  We are completely shrouded in pollution.  No day (we’ve had two) has been clear, and those visiting Victoria Peak (about 1,817.6 feet above sea level and the highest point within Hong Kong) — one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hong Kong — said they were disappointed because little could be seen except buildings in the immediate vicinity."
                                                                  

Thursday's Essay Excerpt - from the last two paragraphs of the essay

Close to the Tai Chi Court is the Aviary where there are over 600 different kinds of birds.  The walkway is long and winds midway between the ground and enclosed fencing above, and overlooks a flowing stream, waterfall, a small lake, and lush tropical foliage broken by the constant movement of birds with brilliant plumage.  Feeders suspended near the walkway bring the birds to eye level.
    
With the park experience, Hong Kong suddenly and dramatically became interesting and unique.  The omnipresent pollution, normally worn like a tight body shroud, seemed to lift momentarily within the park; unfortunately, it returned as we left the park and headed back to our ship.

And Then Some News