Tag Archives: skyline

About Hong Kong

First thing you recognize in Hong Kong is left-hand traffic. But you are reminded at almost every crosswalk: “Look Right!”. Obviously, this is not astonishing at all as they were British until 12 years ago.

Hong Kong Traffic

Something else, which you’ll inevitably run into and which is quite unusual (but not unique though) is that three banks are licensed by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority for issuing Hong Kong Dollar bank notes. So don’t wonder once you have three different looking 20-Dollar notes in your purse. Also remarkable is the Ten-Dollar polymer note.

Time Square Shopping Center

However, what amazed me most is the Octopus Card. Initially, I perceived it as an RFID card for prepaid public transit payment (similar to the Breeze Card of MARTA in Atlanta, GA). But it turned out that this card is also widely accepted at grocery and convenience stores, coffee shops and even restaurants. So this card became a very convenient payment method–the most convenient I experienced so far. The idea is similar to the Quick system in Austria, but since the Octopus is contactless, it is way more practical.

Hong Kong Skyline from Kowloon

In general, Hong Kong is very much a western city. All the American chains are there, huge flagship stores of Europe’s and America’s most exclusive fashion brands are marking the city center. One will definitely smell the sea. It is very easy to get along with English only. And of course all the skyscrapers that are shaping one of the world’s most astonishing skyline.

Hong Kong Skyline from Victoria Peak

Here’s the updated photo stream!

Atlanta – The Story So Far

When I decided for a live as full-time student I was driven by two things: to finish my studies as fast as possible and to spend a year abroad. I guess this is indispensable to get a basic idea about things happening in the world. Further, language improvement and becoming familiar with other cultures are important facts. Moreover, moving abroad is crucial for self-development.

Emory University Seal

So I started my preparations in September last year by reading several reports from former exchange students to get a basic idea about studying abroad. I have also met some students and they shared their experiences. Soon, I decided to go to an English-speaking non-European country. The application was handed in on January 31st and after a waiting period of several weeks I got the invitation for the personal interview which was on March 4th. Thereafter, I received the nomination for Emory University / Goizueta Business School after a couple of days on March 17, which was the kickoff for extensive preparation work. Vaccinations need to be done, lots of certificates had to be obtained. And the courses have to be selected. Now, this work is almost finished and the documents are going to be sent in the next few days. I’m looking forward to spend a great time in Atlanta!

Atlanta Downtown (Wikipedia)

Header photo “Downtown Atlanta Night” by Evilarry