If you have been living in Taiwan for a number of years you get used to certain idiosyncrasies that come with getting things done here. I characterize Taiwan as still having a certain "wild west" flavor and there is a charm to this kind of environment. A culture of breaking all the rules (and ethics) in order to achieve whatever small gain possible. There is chaos on the roads, cronyism, bureaucratic inefficiencies, monoculture, lack of any international infrastructure, and a strong me before anyone else attitude. It's exciting and hair pulling lung screaming frustration all at the same time.
I'm sure that many of these attributes can be found in many other places as well.
A couple things struck me on this short visit to Hong Kong. From the time I arrived to the time I left every interaction was unbelievably efficient (in the context of Taiwan). The tourist information desk gave me the info I needed with a smile in 3 minutes, the hotel association spoke so fast and completed my request so fast my head spun, and check in a check out of hotel was under 3 minutes are few examples. They have a business attitude I can appreciate - don't waste time, smile, be helpful, and be friendly.
I was surprised at just how helpful and friendly the people I met there were to strangers. On one occasion when I asked for directions a very kind man took time from his schedule to walk with me for 10 minutes so that I could find the quickest route to the star ferry. Some of my friends in Taiwan must be the most helpful kind people I have ever met but I can't imagine asking someone for directions in Hsinchu and getting the same reaction. People here are too shy and in some cases unapproachable. Taipei might be different though.
This photo was taken in the SOHO area of Wanchai (?). It's a good are to walk in the rain as most of the way up is covered and via an outside escalator.
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