Some interesting facts about Hong Kong

Apts_HK, originally uploaded by tgolamb.

I found so many contrasts and blends of new and old technology while touring the city. The apartments in the picture are about forty stories or more. What I found the most facinating is that they still use bamboo lashed together for scaffolding on all construction, even on modern towers rising to eighty stories.

It is truly amazing, but when you think about it, it makes perfect sense. It is light, incredibly strong, and can be easily modified to suit any need. I have to admire those guys working on the stuff. Even the assembly of bamboo on the outside of the building is very impressive.

Cars are a total luxury in Hong Kong. The streets are packed with them, even very expensive ones like Porche and Ferarri. Since every car must be imported to Hong Kong, the government poses heavy taxes for anyone wanting to drive a car.

What is the tax for a car in Hong Kong you ask? The minimum tax to license a car there is 100%! That's right boys and girls... the tax is the value of the car. This means if you want to put your $40,000 BMW on the road, it's going to cost you an additional $40,000 in tax to do it. Ouch!

And it gets worse as the car becomes more exotic. That tax on a Ferarri or Rolls Royce you love so much, 130%. If you're on top, life is good in Hong Kong.

Of course you know gas prices is between $5 and $6 a gallon, and I'm sure insurance costs are commensurate as well. Maybe I'll just walk. I need the exercise anyway, and shoes are much less expensive.