HONG KONG: A month on the streets has given young Hong Kong democracy protesters a taste of life outside the city's cramped shoebox apartments -- and away from the prying eyes of overprotective parents.
In this city of high tower blocks and even higher property prices, many Hong Kongers reach their 30s before they get married and move out of crowded family homes. Space, tranquility and privacy are all in short supply in one of the most densely populated spots on earth.
But at the main protest camp outside government headquarters, where thousands of youngsters have been gathering since September 28 demanding free leadership elections, there's a little more room to breathe.
They may be camped on a concrete highway, but their sprawling tent city offers free snacks, a study area, and a place for young lovers to enjoy a late-night stroll.
There are suspicions that more goes on in some of these tents than earnest political debate, but bashful protesters insist it's simply a chance to make new friends with the same lust for democracy.
"It's just easier to break the ice and start a conversation here. It's very open," said Serene, who works as an office manager by day and comes to help run a supplies tent by night.
"And it helps having somewhere to hang out that's a bit different."
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