It may be a day late, but here's a great video showing the New Year celebrations in Hong Kong, including the buildup, skyscraper countdown and fireworks display. Happy New Year, and all the best for 2009!

Here's the latest promo video for Hong Kong, combining the upcoming summer Olympics in Beijing, action movie star Jackie Chan and the equestrian events at the prestigious Hong Kong Jockey Club. There are many beautiful aerial and cultural images of the city, all supposedly viewed within a horse's imagination. Chan's appearance seems a bit cheesy, but nonetheless the the spotlight will be on China starting August 8!

Although I've only been to Hong Kong twice myself, this 60-second whirlwind through the city does show some of the more notable highlights. It mostly highlights Victoria Harbour and the Sky Ferry, the tram up Victoria Peak, and Lantau Island. I wish it covered a bit more of the bustling city center and the demanding walk up the peak, but if you have a minute, it's still worth a look!

From the BBC is this really interesting article about the changing political and nationalistic climate in Hong Kong, and how it relates to China. It discusses recent politics in Beijing, and how Chinese citizens with dual or multiple passports are being viewed, especially for residents of Hong Kong, many of whom retain citizenship from other countries such as Britain. To read the full article, click here.

Here's a video that shows the beauty of the Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lin Gardens (Nan Lian Gardens) in a sanctuary right within New Kowloon, Hong Kong. The Buddhist Monastery is incredible, and built within the use of nails! I imagine with the upcoming Olympics in Beijing, China and the equestrian events at the Hong Kong Jockey Club, this peaceful venue will have many visitors hoping to escape the pandemonium of the city...