Springtime in Hong Kong

There is something about Hong Kong that compels you to spend. Maybe it was the agreeable spring weather. Or the throngs of people doing the same thing. For a first-time visitor, the entire city was like one big mall.

There are more luxury stores here, with a greater range of gawk-worthy displays, making those in Sydney and Singapore seem like poor suburban cousins.

This is a city truly awash with Birkins. Real ones, fake ones, vintage resale ones. Of course, there are lovely things other than cult bags. Like those one-of-a-kind designs from indy shops. (Spend.) Discount cosmetics piled up so high, they look like candy mountains from afar. (Spend.) And of course, minimalist gym clothes from the giant Muji store at Times Square. (Spend.) And when you're tired, there's always heaps of food places lurking in corners. (Spend.)

I like it that the shopping zones are super-illuminated such that night seems like day. And shops and eating places are open till 11 pm, some even till midnight.

Service people were nowhere near as haughty as they're reputed to be. In fact, they actually seemed pleased to see you, which is a huge change from "it's all on the rack'' Singapore salespeople.

While Boy was busy working, I diligently racked up a four-figure shopping bill, before you can say "credit limit''.

"In Hong Kong dollars?'' he asked hopefully. Um ...n-n-nope.

But Boy was kind enough to be my self-appointed urban sherpa the next few days, when work was done.

One reason why I didn't like Lost in Translation was this: I don't understand how one can be lucky enough to stay in luxury, in one of the most happening cities in the world, and wallow miserably in the hotel instead of exploring the city. Life's too short.

I will miss Hong Kong.

As I lug my two suitcases back home (one newly bought and stuffed with goodies), I'll remember the chic little cafes and bars hidden in this ghetto-like enclave called Soho, high up the hills. The baked egg balls sold in pushcarts at the night markets. The 50 cent ferry ride that is really a 5 minute lightshow. The mix of old and new, glittery and grubby, east and west. It is a charming atmosphere money cannot buy.