Shanghai and now in Hong Kong

We're now in Hong Kong - we had yesterday in Shanghai and I have to say I was less than impressed. When we were there in 97 it seemed pretty vibrant and upwardly-mobile, but today it hardly seems to have moved since then. Sure, there are lots of new high-rises, but it lacks the depth Hong Kong has and the interest and historic features that Beijing has. Everywhere you looked there were signs for Prada, Coke, Pizza Hut, Pepsi, etc etc. All talk no substance basically.

We also went on what is possibly the worst thing in the world. It was advertised as a "Sightseeing Tunnel" which took you under the river in Shanghai. It turned out to be something like the lame haunted house rides you have at fairs etc...

Here's the website:

http://lyw.sh.gov.cn/en/scenic_spot/bundtunnel.aspx

I particularly like this review from the New York Times:

"For a look at Shanghai kitsch at its worst, you can take a trip across -- actually, under -- the Huangpu in plastic, capsular cars. The accompanying light show is part Disney, part psychedelia, complete with flashing strobes, blowing tinsel, and swirling hallucinogenic images projected on the concrete walls. The tackiest futuristic film of the 1960s couldn't have topped this. The five-minute ride will have your head spinning and you wondering if the Chinese central government isn't giving Shanghai just a little too much money."

Anyway - a few pictures:

This was on the check-in desk at the airport...

Me relaxing in the pool here in Hong Kong

Shanghai Skyline

Ditto

Tacky!

Street food

Hand Carry Crabs!

Skyline again.