Around DB November Issue 2015 by Around DB Magazine

UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE

FESTIVAL EXPRESS GET ON BOARD FOR PiP 2016

APPLICATIONS THAT WIN KIDS PLACES

e h t n i Jo

Wi n the activ a ch atr ity ild’ e t ta s tep a lo icket ble, pan bst s a yak er nd i se t!

crew

Fancy a taste of the action? DB’s sailing scene is open to all! Join your community online

Publishers in DB since 2002 NOVEMBER 2015

SALES / RENTALS 康慧台 HILLGROVE

$15K

NOVEMBER 2015

康慧台 HILLGROVE

$18K

倚濤軒 CREStMONt

G EA

$55K

G EA

Call Charles for viewing (+852) 6140 7971

Gross: 472’ Saleable: 398’ 0

Gross: 699’ Saleable: 591’

Fully renovated studio with balcony. Partially Furnished. Walking distance to DB Plaza and pier.

碧如臺 BIJOU HaMLEt

$105K

2 1

Nicely renovated garden house, modern kitchen, spacious living and in a tranquil location. Must see!

哥爾夫球車 EZGO GOLf CaRt

$2.1M

Nicely renovated, balcony with great views. Close to DB Plaza and pier.

海馬徑 SEaHORSE

Gross: 1801’ Saleable: 1556’ 4

Gross: 1707’ Saleable: 1436’

$120K

Gorgeously renovated duplex w/ a 360° open view & renovated to a high western standard. Great family home!

朝暉徑 HEaDLaND

Gross: 2099’ Saleable: 2094’

Gross: 2075’ Saleable: 1995’ 5 4

Lovely bright duplex, highly efficient layout and well equipped kitchen. Great for entertaining. Ready to move into.

寶峰徑 PaRKVaLE

$6.5M

Perfect family home, unobstructed green and sea views, spacious living and in a tranquil location.

觀濤樓 MaRINE VIEW

G EA

$10.8M

G EA

$138K/49.8M

Gross: 796’ Saleable: 689’

Call Charles for viewing (+852) 6140 7971

Under value. Last sale was 2.26M. Well maintain and kept like new!

海澄湖畔 SIENa

$8.28M

2 1

Nicely renovated apartment, bright and breezy and in a quiet area. Balcony with great views. Vacant Sale!

寶峰 PaRKVaLE

$13.8M

Gross: 1412’ Saleable: 1157’ 3

Lovely renovation apartment with amazing sea views. Ideal for family. For sale with tenancy.

朝暉徑 HEaDLaND

$115M

G EA

Gross: 742’ Saleable: 593’ 2 1

Renovated lowrise, balcony with great views and close to school.

Saleable: 3187’

Gross: 1213’ Saleable: 1138’ 3 2

In very good condition. Bright apartment with balcony and roof terrace. Great for entertaining. Must see!

5 4

Renovators delight. House w/ private swimming pool & huge garden. Company sale & Vacant possession.

www.headlandhomes.hk

2987 2088

EAA LIC C-033418

NEW MANDARIN STUBBY 60 COMING APRIL 2016

Boosting over 2500 sq ft with 3 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, separate laundry, twin desk study, comprehensive kitchen, large lounge and dining, wheel house open to roof deck bbq. Rare opporturnity to secure this beautiful boat.Order now to enjoy 12 month free berthing. 9.1m

Enqu i r y : i n fo @ ma nd ar in ya cht .c om .hk

Large House Boat for sale with two years free berthing

Only 5 years old, one owner. 5 bedrooms over 3500 sq. ft. Totally renovated with new floor, new carpet, new paint, new blinds. Quiet F dock with private tender. Roof deck: large wheel house/family room open to alfresco bbq and jucuzzi. Main deck: Large lounge with balcomy, 1 ensuite double bedroom, kitchen and dining. Lower deck: Maids room or study, bathroom, 1 ensuite double bedroom, 1 nursery room adjacent to master bedroom ensuite with jucuzzi bathroom and walk in wardrobe. Large basement storage.

Reduced to 7.9 M

E nqu i r y : i n fo @ ma nd ar in ya cht .c om .hk

AquaBlu Marine You only live once

Contact us for an alternative lifestyle! Boat/ Yacht Sales & Brokerage - Berths/ Debentures - Marine Insurance - Marine Problems/ Resolution

PLEASURE CRAFT

傅耀宗

STAY-ON-BOARDS

SUPER YACHTS

* Contact Paul for all boat listings from $5-12M

Paul Fortune, LLB (Hons) +852 6017 7802 Email: Oceanblu@netvigator.com

Professional - Discreet - Effective

33 years international and local experience in maritime and shipping matters and marine insurance. *No commission is charged to buyers

Covering: Discovery Bay | Gold Coast | Aberdeen | New Territories

NOVEMBER 2015 FEATURES 28

PROFILE Meet 17-year, eco-queen of DB, Catherine Touzard

IN FOCUS Hong Kong’s festival culture (and introducing PiP 2016!)

FAMILY MATTERS Timely advice for university applicants

MONEY Budgeting ahead of the Xmas holidays

ESCAPES Argentina’s Mendoza province – food, wine, horses and more

ACTION DB’s burgeoning sailing scene

REGULARS 25

COMPETITION Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com

MOMENTS Cycling for Tom Smits

TALKING POINTS Competing in Team FEAR Junior Challenge

DB FACES Candid community snaps

OUT THERE Thoughts on island life

AGENDA 52

IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news

HK HAPPENINGS Find fun things to do across the harbour

CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, businesses and more

PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent

LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau

39 60

UNIVERSITYE NG CHALLEONS THAT

FESTIVAL EXPRESS

APPLICATI ES WIN KIDS PLAC

D GET ON BOAR FOR PiP 2016

Readers with a feature story idea, please email rachel@baymedia.com.hk If you would like to publicise a local event, email info@baymedia.com.hk For general enquiries, email info@baymedia.com.hk To advertise, email lissa@baymedia.com.hk Around DB, Bay Media, 7E Glamour Court, Discovery Bay Call 2987 0577/ 2787 0886 Fax 2987 0533

For the latest Around DB updates, find us on

ON THE COVER Wi

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2002 in DB since Publishers 2015 NOVEM BER

LBC sailors Gabriel Kicks and Tom Nunan

Photo courtesy of the LBC

and www.arounddb.com

HK D8 . 3M

HK D 6 .9 M

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YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY EVENTS!

Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk Managing editor Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk Advertising & sales manager Lissa Morris lissa@baymedia.com.hk Art direction Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk Digital editor Melissa Stevens melissa@baymedia.com.hk Office manager Beatrice De Magistris accountant@baymedia.com.hk Photography Baljit Gidwani Contributors this month Sam Agars Angie Bucu Barbara Cooper Joe Dobbs Elizabeth Kerr Peter Sherwood Printing Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion, 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong Disclaimer The views expressed in Around DB are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.

www.evoqueportraits.com

DBRC CHARITY TENNIS CUP The DBRC Charity Tennis Cup on October 10 was a huge success, with a record-breaking HK$322,480 raised for the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association and Watchdog Early Education Centre. Happy Kitchen won the Charity Cup and The Old Stars took out the Goodwill Cup for the team that raised the most money, with a total of HK$71,000.

Find more photos of community events @ www.arounddb.com

IN&AROUND DB

FLIGHT CENTRE GRAND OPENING Flight Centre Discovery Bay held its grand opening on October 17, with locals gathering to meet the Flight Centre team and enjoy food and drinks.

www.evoqueportraits.com

DB PIRATES RUGBY INTERNATIONAL The DB Pirates Under-12s hosted Hunters Hill RFC from Sydney, Australia on September 26 for the first international rugby match to be held in DB. A hard-fought match in hot conditions saw Hunters Hill win seven tries to four.

Photos courtesy of Neil Robbins

November 2015

IN&AROUND DB

DISCOVERY MIND SCHOOL FUNFILLED DAY Discovery Mind schools held a joint Funfilled Day in DB Plaza on October 10, with art and craft activities, games, face painting, African drumming and a balloon artist creating a carnival atmosphere for the children to enjoy.

Photos courtesy of DMK

LIVING ISLANDS MOVEMENT FUNDRAISER More than 70 people attended the Living Islands Movement (LIM) fundraising barbecue in Tong Fuk on October 17. Over HK$8,000 was raised for ongoing conservation projects, such as preserving the Pui O wetlands and opposing plans for an incinerator at Shek Kwu Chau. Two Islands District Council election candidates were present, ostensibly looking for the ‘green’ vote. To get involved, visit www.livingislands.org.hk.

Photos courtesy of Martin Lerigo

DB-POWERED TEAM BACCHUS CROWNED TAG CHAMPS Team Bacchus, captained by DB resident Andrew Tasker and fielding 10 DBers, won the first ever Hong Kong Tag Championship at King’s Park Sports Ground, Ho Man Tin, on October 21. DB resident Mathew Zoller was named man of the tournament and another DBer, Oliver Rendal, took out the most improved.

November 2015

Photo courtesy of Andrew Tasker

ADVERTORIAL

DISCOVER MORE EPIC FUN AT EPICLAND IN

DB NORTH PLAZA

Photos courtesy of EpicLand

ow that so many of us have ‘discovered’ Discoveryland – Hong Kong’s largest indoor family entertainment centre – it’s taking on an epic new name. Your favourite adventure playground is now EpicLand!

Photos courtesy of EpicLand

Epic is not only the initials of the company’s name, (Entertainment Projects Investments Company Ltd), it describes the experience adventurers are already enjoying at the DB North Plaza facility. Featuring the longest indoor slides in Asia and a variety of fun and educational games and activities, EpicLand provides epic adventure and hours of fun, captivating residents and

visitors of all ages – from babies right through to their parents! EpicLand covers a full 14,000 square feet and it soars 12 metres high. Challenge yourself on air trek, Hong Kong’s only indoor aerial rope course. Reach for the skies on the heartpumping climbing walls. Navigate an intricate web of laser beams to reach your targets in the newest addition – the d’laser maze. (Grown-ups can even host a laser-tag event and challenge friends or work colleagues to an epic, team-building shoot out!)

A ballistics area, mini golf, caged playground, toddler area and much much more awaits you. And when you need to cool off with some refreshments, you can head over to the in-house Epic Café. EpicLand relies on state-of-the-art technologies and follows international safety standards in order to provide a fun, safe and clean environment for the whole family to enjoy. Hygiene is of the utmost importance, which is why it is a shoe-free, sock-only, totally epic facility.

EpicLand is located at G/F Family Recreation Centre, 31 DB North Plaza, Discovery Bay. To find out more, visit www.epiclandhk.com.

November 2015

YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS!

IN&AROUND DB

Find more information and events @ www.arounddb.com er emb v o N 2-6

Photo courtesy of Box of Hope

BOX OF HOPE

Throughout November

All DB schools

TO ADOPT A PET

through Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS), call Jacqui Green on 9197 4371; for Hong Kong Paws Foundation (PAWS), call Kat Cheung on 9485 5188.

DB kids can do their bit to help underprivileged children in Hong Kong and elsewhere in Asia by filling a shoebox with new and interesting educational gifts for this year’s Box of Hope initiative. After collecting an amazing 21,000 boxes last year, Box of Hope is aiming to distribute as many as 25,000 boxes in 2015. Email dana.winograd@gmail.com or head to www.boxofhope.org to get involved.

STAND-UP COMEDY NIGHT

er 7 Novemb

Discovery College

STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET

across from Haven Court, 2 to 4.45pm. For more information, call 2238 3617.

PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF THE HILLS 7 vember Discovery Bay Lookout

Catch top-notch stand-up right here in DB at the Discovery College (DC) Stand-Up Comedy Night. With a galaxy of leading Hong Kong comedians, who are usually found wowing the crowds at the Take Out Comedy Club in SoHo, it is sure to be an entertaining evening. Grab your tickets (HK$200) at www.ticketingover.com, or at the DC PTA Shop.

er 7

mb Nove

Kids aged 6 to 14 test their trail running abilities in Lantau Buffalos’ Prince and Princess of the Hills. All proceeds from the race, which costs HK$170 to enter, will be donated to DB eco-charity Plastic Free Seas. The race is limited to 100 participants, so head to www.lantaubuffalos.org to secure your child’s spot before 10pm on November 4.

Photo courtesy of Lantau Buffalos

November 2015

Photo courtesy of DC

IN&AROUND DB

ITALTENNIS DBHK DB Marina Club

November 7-8

Discovery Bay’s Italtennis DBHK is holding its second singles and doubles tennis tournament. Reserved for Italian players and their partners, the event concludes with a gala dinner. Find out more, at https://m.facebook.com/italtennis.db.9.

ALL CLEAR FOR DB TAP WATER Good news for DB residents! Further tests by City Management have revealed that DB tap water does not contain excessive levels of lead. In an email to residents on September 24, Islands District Council Member (Discovery Bay) Photo courtesy of www.wikimedia.org Amy Yung shared that 28 water samples taken throughout DB, between July 20 and September 4, had come up clean. Read more at http://arounddb.com/articles/news/34506-all-clear-for-dbtap-water.

ber Novem Photo courtesy of ItalTennis DBHK

DB 10KM RUN FOR CHARITY DB Plaza Don’t miss your chance to get involved in the 11th annual DB 10km Run for Charity. After raising HK$186,629 for Watchdog Early Education Centre last year, all proceeds from the run will go to Food Angel, a programme that redistributes surplus food from the food industry to Hong Kong’s underprivileged. You have until November 7 to register to run, or volunteer to help, so head to www.dbrunforcharity.org. er 14 Novemb

www.dbrunforcharity.org

8 & 29

SHOP THE DB SUNDAY MARKET in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm.

WALK FOR OPERATION SANTA CLAUS Discovery Mind Kindergarten Get decked out in your festive garb and join in the 10th annual Discovery Mind Operation Santa Claus Sponsored Walk. Proceedings kick off at 9am, with walkers starting at Discovery Mind Kindergarten (DMK) and finishing at Siena Park, where the children are greeted by the Around DBsponsored clown. Pick up a sponsor form at DMK, or find out more at www.dmk.edu.hk. er 21 Novemb

Photo courtesy of Discovery Mind Kindergarten

November 2015

IN&AROUND DB

November 21

JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP

at Nim Shue Wan, organised by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, from 9am to 12pm. Visit www.dbgreen.org.

November 22

VOTE FOR DB’S NEW ISLANDS DISTRICT COUNCIL MEMBER between 7.30am and 10.30pm at Wei Lun Primary School, DB.

RESIDENT’S CHOICE AWARDS

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders ecember 3 November 25-D

Throughout Lantau A huge success last year, the Resident’s Choice Awards give you the chance to vote for Lantau’s best restaurant. To get your favourite diners nominated, simply post your restaurant reviews at www.arounddb.com, or email them to us at info@baymedia.com.hk by November 25. The two restaurants with the best ratings will be shortlisted and posted on the Around DB and Life On Lantau Facebook page for an online vote, December 1 to 3. For competition details, visit www.arounddb.com.

DC FAMILY FUN DAY

9 November 2

Discovery College

DC Family Fun Day, running from 12 to 5pm, is set to entertain the whole family, with music, games and face painting. Take the chance to do a bit of Christmas shopping at the commercial and charity stalls. To rent a stall (HK$500 for DC parents or staff, HK$1,000 for others), email Koren Thomas on korenthomas555@me.com or visit the DC PTA shop. The deadline for booking a stall is November 24.

8 November 2

Photo by Vincent Ypersiel

TEAM FEAR Throughout DB

Photo courtesy of DC

November 2015

Kids, aged eight to 18, hike, run, cycle, climb and kayak in the annually anticipated Team FEAR Junior Challenge. The race, which has been going since 2001, raises funds for Hong Kong charity Youth Outreach. To find out more, turn to page 52, or visit www.team-fear.com.

RESIDENTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHOICE AWARDS 2015

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THE BEST RESTAURANT IN LANTAU? How it works Review your favourite Lantau restaurants and help them get nominated! Post your reviews at www.arounddb.com, or email us at info@baymedia.com.hk. Deadline: November 25. The two restaurants with the best ratings will be shortlisted and posted on the Around DB and Life On Lantau Facebook page for an online vote, December 1 to 3.

Criteria to consider

In making your recommendations, consider not only the quality of the food, but also the ambience, standard of service and value for money. Note that fast food joints do not qualify.

AU EO T N LAN

Awards for finalists FIRST PLACE: The winning restaurant will be promoted on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook page, and featured in an article at www.arounddb.com and in either Around DB or Life on Lantau magazines. SECOND PLACE: The runner-up will be promoted on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook page, and featured in an article at www.arounddb.com.

List your business for free @ www.arounddb.com

Review your favourite Lantau restaurant now, for its chance to be nominated! For competition details, visit www.arounddb.com

IN&AROUND DB

NEW IN DB ACTION X Outdoor sports store Action X stocks top brands including Hoka One One, The North Face, Salomon, 2XU, Icebreaker Merino, Julbo, Fjallraven and Camelbak. Action X is opening in early November, at Shop G16A-G16C, DB North Plaza. Call 2911 4833 or visit www.actionxstore.com.

www.evoqueportraits.com

EPICLAND Discoveryland, in DB North Plaza, has changed its name to EpicLand! This is not only the initials of the company name (Entertainment Projects Investments Company Ltd), but also the experience you can expect at Hong Kongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest, indoor adventure playground. Visit www.epiclandhk.com.

th afric

ng kong

shop an

The sou

Photo courtesy of Action X

IN&AROUND DB

SAVE THE DATE

December 5-6

CAROLS ON THE PITCH

y 30

r Janua

Discovery Bay International School

Photo courtesy of Action Asia

MSIG HK50 TRAIL RUN & HIKE SERIES

This well-loved community event welcomes parents, families and friends â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just bring a blanket, a picnic and your singing voice. Look to the Around DB Facebook page and www.arounddb.com for further details.

December 10

Lantau Trail

The MSIG HK50 Trail Run & Hike Series is set to hit Lantau, with back-to-back events. Athletes are gearing up for the 5-kilometre vertical run on the first day and 16-, 27- and 50-kilometre races on the second. To find out more and secure your spot, visit www.actionasiaevents.com.

Photo courtesy of DBIS

Photo by Leticia Lemos at PiP 2014

PICNIC IN THE PARK IS BACK! Picnic in the Park, PiP, will be back on January 30, 2016, celebrating 10 wonderful years of live music and dance. Over 60 acts are expected to perform across two stages in Siena Park. The organisers would like to thank the Discovery Bay City Ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Committee, Discovery Bay City Management and HKR International for making the event possible. For more information, turn to page 33 or visit www.facebook.com/picnicintheparkhk.

OFFICE 3483 5003

www.homesolutions.hk

Sharon Riley Misako Takato Anne Gnadig

9664 4749 9757 0927 9261 2761

(S-415475) (S-287062) (E-225483)

NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG

20M VILLA IN CHUENG SHA 1472 Net 3500 Gross inc/ Roof & Garden

Stunning Villa in desirable area. 3 large beds, 2.5 baths inc ensuite. Open plan kitchen adjoins entrance/dining/sitting room. Sweeping views of sea and mountains. Private car park. Quiet cul de sac. 2 mins to Palm beach.

39K VILLA IN CHEUNG SHA Approx 1400 sqft Gross + Garden

Located in quiet gated community. 3 beds, 2.5 baths incl 1 en suite. Fully equipped open plan kitchen and dining room on GF, leading onto landscaped garden. Private undercover carport. Complex has shared indoor gym and outdoor children’s play area.

12.8M TONG FUK VILLAGE HOUSE 2100’ + 700’ Rooftop

No expense spared designer home! 2 large beds, 2 ensuite baths. Maids quarters. Open kitchen/dining area with folding doors leading to patio area. Further living area on 1F. Concealed air con and media area. Nr beach and easy parking.

35K VILLA IN CHEUNG SHA 1091’ Net + Large garden + Car park

Located in fashionable Cheung Sha. 3 beds, 2.5 bath inc 1 ensuite. Multi levelled home ensures great use of space. Partially furnished. Green garden perfect for entertaining and great rooftop with sea views. Mins from Palm Beach.

9K MUI WO FLAT 352’ + 343’ Rooftop

Making you feel at home is our business

Conveniently located flat for commuters. 2 beds, 1 bath. Open plan, tiled dining/living kitchenette with fridge. Rooftop with stunning mountain and sea views. Amenities of Mui Wo just downstairs.

Call us any time at 3483 5003 or Email PROPERTY@HOMESOLUTIONS.HK

C-044849

Thanksgiving Day Turkey Basket | Takeaway Order Form $788 (around 5.5-6kg each) Including Classic Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce & Red Wine Gravy Please order at least 4 days in advance | Collection Point : D’Cafe at Discovery Bay Recreation Club

Name : Contact Tel. : Contact Email : Collection Date : □ 26 Nov Thanksgiving Day □ Other date (13 - 25 Nov only)

Time:

(12noon - 9pm)

Date: Time:

Stuffing Request : □ With Stuffing □ Without Stuffing □ Stuffing on the side □ Extra condiments & sauce ( $30 per bottle ) Prepayment Method : □ Credit to my Membership Account □ Payment by cash upon ordering □ By credit card

(12noon - 9pm)

Photo is for reference only.

2500 1942 1/F, Discovery Bay Recreation Club, Discovery Bay www.dbrc.hk

Training Unlimited! Burn for Fabulous Body HK$1880 only 12-month Unlimited Fitness Plan HK$1280 only 6-month Unlimited Fitness Plan With only HK$1280 or HK$1880, you can have unlimited access to fitness centers and weights rooms at both Discovery Bay Recreation Club (DBRC) and Club Siena for 6 months and 12 months respectively. Enquiry: 2500 1849 (DBRC Fitness Centre) 3156 7421 (Club Siena Fitness Centre) Valid for DBRC members only Terms & conditions apply

Welcome to visit our website for more promotions

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

Take home a 2 in 1 Activity Table!

COMPETITIONS

Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions right here). You have until November 10 to submit your answers. To enter, email info@baymedia.com.hk, click on the competitions link at www.arounddb.com, or scan the QR Code below. Don’t forget to give us your name and telephone number!

YOUR PRIZE: Toys Club is offering one lucky reader a 2 in 1 Activity Table from KidKraft featuring a LEGO-compatible brick board and a flat surface train scene. Valued at HK$1,499 and recommended for ages four and above, the sturdy wood table includes a 30-piece train set, 200 building bricks and ample storage.

Who wrote the book The Witches? Photo courtesy of ABA Productions

See Roald Dahl’s The Witches Where does Toys Club get its toys from? www.itoysclub.com

FIND THE ANSWER: Toys Club brings you the hottest and trendiest toys, including educational options, shipped directly from the UK and the US. Visit www.itoysclub.com.

YOUR PRIZE: ABA Productions is offering two readers, three A-reserve tickets (valued at HK$595 per ticket) to see The Witches at 5pm on November 27. FIND THE ANSWER: The stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The Witches offers a terrifying treat for the whole family at the Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai, from November 27 to 29. Join a brave young boy as he and his grandmother battle evil witches in a tale that will keep you enthralled until the very end. For tickets, visit www.hkticketing.com.

Win a lobster teppanyaki set

How many people does Airport Izakaya’s teppanyaki bar seat?

YOUR PRIZE: Airport Izakaya at the Regal Airport Hotel is offering one reader, two lobster teppanyaki sets, valued at HK$867 per set.

Photo courtesy of Regal Airport Hotel

FIND THE ANSWER: Airport Izakaya’s new menu focuses on authentic teppanyaki, tonkatsu and sashimi straight out of Japan. The newly renovated teppanyaki bar seats up to 16 people and offers a first-hand view of the flame shooting action. As well as lobster, you can expect oysters, abalone, Wagyu beef and Hokkaido scallops. Visit www.regalhotel.com/regal-airport-hotel.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Alfreda Wright and Marie Pelard for tickets to see Charlie and Lola's Best Bestest Play; Kal Heathe, Sonia Mcneil and Ann Whittle for tickets to see Hairy Maclary's Cat Tales; Andy Green for the the Abbelio Wines giveaway; and Monica Sung and Jennifer Anderson for a team spot in Team FEAR Junior Challenge. November 2015

COMPETITIONS

Win with the City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong YOUR PRIZE: City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong is offering one reader, two tickets (valued at HK$480 per ticket) to see Warsaw Boys Choir at 7.30pm on December 15 and one reader, two tickets (valued at HK$380 each) to see Wells Cathedral School Choralia at 7.30pm on December 16.

How many years has the Hong Kong Players’ Christmas panto been running? www.hongkongplayers.com

The two shows are part of which series?

Catch Hong Kong Players’ Cinderella www.ccohk.com

FIND THE ANSWER: Warsaw Boys Choir and Wells Cathedral School Choralia are both playing at the Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall and will be delivering Christmas choral showcases as part of the Cheers! series. For tickets, head to www.urbtix.hk; for further information visit www.ccohk.com.

YOUR PRIZE: Hong Kong Players is offering two readers, two tickets (valued at HK$390 per ticket) to see Cinderella – The Panto at 7pm on December 10. FIND THE ANSWER: Cinderella – The Panto is showing at Udderbelly, Central Harbourfront Event Space from December 4 to 6 and 10 to 13. It is Hong Kong Players’ 55th annual Christmas panto and provides an allsinging, all-dancing musical extravaganza for the entire family. For tickets, visit www.hkticketing.com; for more information, head to www.hongkongplayers.com.

Win tickets to Cirque Adrenaline! YOUR PRIZE: Lunchbox Theatrical Productions is offering two readers, three tickets (valued at HK$595 per ticket) to see Cirque Adrenaline at 7.45pm on December 22.

How many performers does Cirque Adrenaline feature?

Photo courtesy of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions

November 2015

FIND THE ANSWER: Cirque Adrenaline is set to wow audiences at AsiaWorld-Expo, Chek Lap Kok, from December 22, 2015 to January 3, 2016. The show features dangerous and death-defying circus acts, clowns, trapeze artists and complex aerial stunts. The troupe of over 50 performers has been handpicked from the best and most original circus acts in the world. Grab your tickets now at www.hkticketing.com.

AT THE FRYDERYK CHOPIN UNIVERSIT Y OF MUSIC

.2015 (Tue) 7:30pm

Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall

$480 $380 $200

.2015 (Wed) 7:30pm

Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall

$380 $280 $180

Featuring seasonal selection of Christmas music, traditional carols and choral favourites performed by the CCOHK, violin soloist Amelia Chan and the angelic voices of two award-winning choirs from Poland and England.

Tickets available from URBTIX

3761 6661 Ticketing Enquiries Internet Booking www.urbtix.hk Credit Card Telephone Booking 2111 5999 Programme Enquiries 2864 2156 / info@ccohk.com

Audience members are strongly advised to arrive punctually. Latecomers will not be admitted until a suitable break in the programme. City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong reserves the right to change the programme and the artists.

CCO HK is f inancially supported by the ADC 香港城市室樂團為藝發局資助團體

FLOWERS & DESIGN

PROFILE

QUEEN GREEN Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com

Looking for a role model to prove that it’s possible for us to live sustainably with our environment, Angie Bucu consults 17-year DB resident Catherine Touzard

s I sit across from Catherine Touzard in her Frenchinspired rustic kitchen, we reflect on how cool and comfortable it is despite the blistering 33°C heat outside, even though she hasn’t turned on the air conditioner.

energy bills year round and reduces noise pollution. There’s also a solarwater heating system and an active worm farm, providing nourishing compost for the virtual forest of plants, fruit trees and vegetables growing on the balconies.

Since arriving in Hong Kong and DB in 1998 with husband Olivier and their two kids, Hugo and Emile (now four with Joseph and Anna), Catherine has experimented with a series of eco-aware renovations in their Beach Village apartment. Double glazing saves on

Sitting in this cool, green oasis, Catherine reveals that the family are about to move Hong Kong-side, principally to reduce the school commute for the children. Leaving this home cannot be easy – it’s a lovely family retreat. More than this, it’s an

November 2015

example of the holistic approach to sustainability Catherine emphasises in her environmental work, a journey which began 17 years ago.

Going Green in Hong Kong Many in DB got to know Catherine through her Going Green in Hong Kong guidebook, published (initially with former Hong Kong resident Fabienne Malaval-Dupre) in 2007. Each chapter addresses major lifestyle components, like food, home, shopping, waste, water, energy etc., and details the flaws

PROFILE

gardening and flea markets, are all quite unique in Hong Kong. She supports the efforts of local eco groups, DB Green and Plastic Free Seas (of which she is an advisory member). Catherine doesn’t consider herself an activist but she tries “to have an active role in finding solutions”. Her efforts have resulted in positive outcomes on a number of initiatives in DB. She was, for instance, instrumental in saving the pine trees from being cut down in Beach Village, in 2012.

Catherine Touzard with daughter Anna in the woods near Beach Village

within our usual modus operandi and how little changes can make a big difference. A new and improved edition, in English and Chinese, was picked up for distribution by ParknShop in 2009, and it’s as relevant today as it was then. Post publication, Catherine has been invited to speak to companies, at public and private events, rotary clubs and parent groups. She takes the view that information is the key to getting people and communities on board about the environment. “Sustainability shouldn’t go against people’s will, health or money; it really should be a pleasure,” she says. “I never try to discourage people or act like the teacher telling them what they are doing wrong. You need to give people

the information, so they naturally come to the right conclusion.”

Greening Discovery Bay Life in DB has been good to the Touzard family and has given Catherine an opportunity to really embody the environmentally sustainable life that she teaches. She is full of praise for her home of 17 years. “The design of DB from the start was meant for a lowcarbon lifestyle, it’s in the DNA of the place,” she says. “The green space helps reduce pollution, whilst refreshing and lowering air temperature, and it’s simply beautiful with a direct access to nature.” Catherine points out that DB’s cycling and pedestrian zones, social hub, and green initiatives like recycling,

“For me cutting down a tree is like cutting a leg off,” Catherine says, sharing that the Beach Village trees reduce the heat effect, whereas low bush-like plants (which were proposed to replace the trees) would result in the area and buildings being significantly hotter, therefore requiring more energy use. It would be foolish to suggest to Catherine that cutting a tree down could be justified by someone finding it aesthetically unappealing or wanting a better sea view. As a member of the Environmental Protection Sub-Committee of the City Owners’ Committee from 2010 to 2013, Catherine tried to introduce many green initiatives but found that her ideas were often ahead of the times. Picking her battles, her focus has been on health issues and, at the time of the ferry-fare increase saga, in 2011, she introduced the idea of testing an auxiliary combustion system on the ferries to investigate the possibility of reducing pollutants and fuel costs. Apparently these tests were very successful, however the results have not been made public by the transport services.

Focused on sustainability Catherine is a certified carbon auditor and permaculturist, and the recipient of an Outstanding Earth Champion Award for Going Green in Hong Kong. Sustainability co-ordinator at all campuses of the French International November 2015



PROFILE School for the past five years, she also works as a sustainability consultant for various local organisations, advising on circular economy issues, such as design, waste reduction and carbon footprint assessment. Working on a lower carbon approach has proved to be both an environmentally and financially sound move for many Hong Kong based companies, including Para’Kito, cofounded by Olivier Partrat, a two-year DB resident. Catherine also works with Jenny Quinton, at Ark Eden in Mui Wo, on climate change workshops with schools and businesses. “Some companies want to Find more local heroes

The Touzards have just moved over to Hong Kong-side but intend to spend weekends in and around DB

offset their carbon footprint, so I do the calculations and help them with reforestation of native trees around the valley,” says Catherine. “It’s not simply about having a nice outing in nature; it is teaching participants about air pollution and landslides, and the effects of soil erosion on the streams. “Bringing the right conditions to the valleys and villages [around Lantau] supports biodiversity, and by boosting the ecosystem we are helping more animals and birds to live there,” Catherine continues. “Really there is nothing new to this ‘green’ way, we are merely retrieving or restoring how things were in the past. Lantau is fantastic and offers a contrast to the rest of Hong Kong – another lifestyle that is open to nature and spirituality.”

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IN FOCUS

Hong Kongers come out in their hoards for a good music festival, as witnessed at Clockenflap 2014

THE MUSIC MEN Photos courtesy of Clockenflap and by Emma Yong at Picnic in the Park 2014

Despite its self-proclaimed status as Asia’s World City, Hong Kong lacks world city music status. But there’s hope for the future, not least because PiP is back, says Elizabeth Kerr

espite Hong Kong boasting the numbers to support major touring acts and a well-travelled, cosmopolitan population, if you’re not Andy Lau you’re not getting a date at the Hong Kong Coliseum. Venues are a problem for the SAR’s live music scene, one of the reasons precisely zero of 2015’s biggest touring acts touched down here. Back in the early 2000s when Rockit was trying to create a home-grown music festival, its organisers eventually threw in the towel; their Victoria Park location made for multiple noise complaints from nearby residents. In all fairness, our current lack of festival

culture is largely a space issue; land is expensive and scarce. So finding an outdoor location sustainable over the long term is very tough. That being said, there are still some brave and crazy souls trying to keep the concert series or festival event home fires burning. Right here at home, there’s Picnic in the Park (PiP), billed as Hong Kong’s largest Music and Dance Festival, held annually in November since 2005 but postponed this year to January 30, 2016, due to funding issues. Then, of course, there’s 2008-founded Clockenflap, the annual big-name, three-day music and arts festival, being held this year from November 27 to 29.

Festival culture “The main reason we started Clockenflap is because we felt that Hong Kong only had indoor concerts on offer eight years ago, which were mostly very passive, unreceptive twohour experiences,” explains artistic director Jay Forster. Its establishment also hinged on hometown pride and a desire to showcase Hong Kong culture – a delicately defiant digit to the idea of Hong Kong as a cultural desert. “We wanted to create a place for people to exchange thoughts and ideas and cultivate creativity. This is what Clockenflap is all about – celebrating Hong Kong through music and art for the people, by the people.”  November 2015

IN FOCUS

PiP attracts more than 10,000 music lovers and is performed across two stages in Siena Park

Clockenflap has managed to lure the likes of The Flaming Lips, Mogwai and Kool & The Gang for the old folks, and local acts Yuki Lovely and Lil’ Ashes among others. The festival cracked 45,000 attendees in 2014, and while not on the Coachella or Glastonbury scale, these are solid numbers in a city without giant farms for hire. Returning this month to the West Kowloon Cultural District, Clockenflap continues to grow, a fact reflected in this year’s initial line-up release, with headliners New Order, The Libertines and Damien Rice.

Glastonbury: smaller, more local, more relaxed. “Picnic in the Park was conceived as a vehicle for promoting local talent in the Discovery Bay community and as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for deserving Hong Kong children’s charities,” explains organising committee member Duncan Nott. In its nine years, PiP has grown to attract well over 10,000 attendees – not just from DB. A fun-filled family day, it’s a unique opportunity for aspiring local musicians and artists, of all ages, to showcase their talent. Duncan admits that like many transplanted Hongkongers, he missed his weekends flaking out on the grass, taking in some live tunes. He and his committee couldn’t resist the Siren song of guitar-shaped Siena Park for just that kind of event. Fortunately, HKR International agreed.

Jay has also noticed a proliferation of similar events, at varying scales, since Clockenflap’s inauguration, and he isn’t beyond taking a bit of credit for the sea change. “People are more open to the idea of it now and I am very happy to see that Clockenflap has sparked that ‘festival culture’ in Hong Kong,” he says.

The question of funding

Three years Clockenflap’s senior, PiP is the Bonnaroo to Clockenflap’s

For the PiP team, one of the earliest decisions was what the festival’s

November 2015

mandate would be. “You face two alternatives. Either you monetise the event and accept the financial risk that you may not recover your investment, or you go down the non-profit road and cover your costs through sponsorship,” Duncan says. “Either way, the demands are huge, and the energy required is the same.” PiP opted for the non-profit route, and since its inauguration has managed to raise HK$1.5 million for the Hong Chi Association and the Hong Kong Student Aid Society. The target for January 30, 2016 is HK$500,000. “None of the organisers or the acts draw any fee for participating and all the proceeds from the event go to charity. This is what makes PiP unique,” Duncan explains. Having never launched a project like it before, Jay admits that Clockenflap’s process, especially in the early years, was hit and miss, trial and error. Notably, Clockenflap December 2011, unlike previous (and subsequent) years, was 

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completely free to the public since late stage venue restrictions prevented the sale of tickets. For the organisers, it’s been a case of building from the ground up – and the show must go on. Whether on a large or small scale, there are challenges in mounting an outdoor music and arts festival. Lack of infrastructure is one, a noticeable dearth of public or private funding is another. And there will always be naysayers who expect the worst. Jay has proudly dispelled the idea that local and international audiences and acts could not exist side-by-side and he’s happy to continue in that vein. “If someone tells us, ‘It can’t be done’, we get a bit hot under the collar and then seek to prove them wrong,” he says.

The challenge at PiP is securing a headline sponsor that can help mount the event. “Over the years, we’ve had some great sponsors, who have stepped up time and again and we’re very thankful,” Duncan says. “It would be great if there was more government interest in promoting the live music scene in Hong Kong, but realistically that’s not about to happen any time soon.” Typically of Hong Kong, it will get done anyway. “It will be up to private organisations like ourselves, Clockenflap, YRock

and The Underground to do our best to promote live music in this town,” Duncan adds. While sponsors are still being onboarded, PiPsters have to thank the City Owners’ Committee (COC), Discovery Bay City Management and HKR International for the January 30, 2016 edition. “The COC has undertaken to support the event financially,” says Duncan. “This support means that we can engage the logistics necessary to put on the event.” Rock on!

Find it • Clockenflap, www.clockenflap.com • Picnic in the Park, www.picnicintheparkhk.com

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MOMENTS

TAUPO FOR THOMAS In taking on the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge this month, DB cyclists are opening up a world of educational possibilities for 10-year-old DB resident Tom Smits – and the chance to play Candy Crush. Sam Agars reports

hen Scott Fitzgerald and a group of six fellow Discovery Bay cyclists take on the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge on November 28, 10-year-old Thomas Smits will be urging them on all the way from DB. Thomas, or Tom, as he likes to be called, suffered a severe brain injury at birth and was diagnosed with grade-five cerebral palsy. Scott and the group, which includes Tom’s dad Rick, a 17-year DB resident, have turned their ride into a fundraiser for Tom and are on track to make a big difference to his life.

primarily a communication device, and using Windows on it is tricky. The PC Eye Go is compatible with any windows tablet, laptop or computer, which will allow Tom much more flexibility and portability. “As he is going up through his schooling, he needs to be able to make a word document, a PowerPoint and things like that,” says Merridy. More importantly, if you ask Tom, it will offer him more choice when

Future plans

And while it will be Rick grinding out the kilometres this time around, he has high hopes of taking to the roads with Tom in tow at some stage. “He is only 10 years old but in the future, I would like to get a tandem bicycle and see if he wants to go for bike rides,” Rick says. “Something like this [the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge] might be a thing I do with him. It’d be great.”

A game changer

Photo by Sam Agars

Mention the PC Eye Go and Tom’s face simply lights up. “I feel excited about the new computer,” he says. “It’s awesome.”

Dad Rick, who is busy preparing for the 160-kilometre ride, has been stunned by the way the community has embraced the concept. “The kindness of people blows me away,” he says. “The support has been absolutely amazing. We had a few things in mind and we have exceeded the expectations that we had for it.”

For Scott, recalling a recent Big Sai Wan Golf Society fundraiser for Tom, the idea of using the ride to help the Discovery Bay International School student “just clicked”. In time the title Taupo for Thomas was coined and, with what Scott describes as an overwhelming amount of support coming from the community and a range of local businesses, there’s been no looking back. Already HK$84,789 of the targeted HK$113,000 has been raised.

When Tom, who uses eye-gaze technology to communicate with his eyes via a computer, was asked to decide what he wanted most from the fundraiser, it came as no surprise to his mum Merridy that he opted for a new and improved computer, the PC Eye Go, “just like any other 10-year-old boy would”. The computer Tom currently uses is

deciding what to do with his spare time. “It will enable him to play games,” Merridy says. “He is slightly obsessed with Candy Crush – he watches others play it on YouTube. If he could actually play Candy Crush himself that would be very cool.”

To sponsor the DB cyclists in the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, visit www.gofundme.com/ taupo4thomas. Thomas his parents, Seru Rabeni setSmits, to beefwith up DB Pirates’17-year play DB residents, Rick and Merridy

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FAMILY MATTERS

At the DC University Fair

THE RIGHT FIT

In order to piece together the university application jigsaw puzzle and make the right choices, Year 13 students need to balance advice from parents and teachers with their own hopes and dreams. DB resident Barbara Cooper reports

Photos courtesy of YHKCC and Highjump Photography for Discovery College

t’s the time of year when parents and teachers discuss university applications with children who are graduating in 2016. Deadlines vary according to the country students are applying to study in, and individual schools set their own application deadlines. For the UK, in order to be competitive, both A-level and International Baccalaureate (IB) students apply from September through to Christmas, US application deadlines tend to be a little later. For practical advice, there’s no better place for students to start than school – whether applicants consult a favourite teacher who knows them well, or a dedicated counsellor. Focusing exclusively on Lantau secondary schools, Edith Mok, careers and university counsellor at YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC), provides advice and organises workshops about further studies and university applications. At Discovery College (DC), higher education counsellors, Susie Blomfield and Amanda Yan, play a similar role. November 2015

It’s likely that most local Year 13 students planning on heading to university next year will have attended the DC University Fair, held annually in September. With representatives from over 120 colleges and universities from the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and Hong Kong, the fair is a one-stop information provider, open to students and parents from any school.

What admissions tutors seek With the vast choice of universities worldwide, deciding where to apply can be stressful. Outcomes rely not only on knowing what a university offers and what it is looking for, but also how to interpret our children’s abilities and passions. Let’s take the perspective of an admissions tutor from a well-known UK university, looking to fill 30 spots in a Business Management course. What factors influence the tutor’s choice of applicant and whether a conditional offer is made? Demand

for the course is obviously important as popular subjects generate more competition for places. A brand-name university means more competition too. Within Business Management, some courses are quantitatively focused, others are not. In the case of the former, a tutor can be more selective about an applicant’s predicted final exam grades, math ability, level of English and International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores for second-language speakers. Grades and scores outline an applicant’s academic abilities, but the personal information they provide to backup their application, for instance the Personal Statement (for UK applications) and the Individual Essay (for US applications), fills in their human side. What have applicants done with their first 17 years of life? How committed are they to their interests? Do their passions line up with their academic profile? Admissions tutors read hundreds of Personal Statements and Individual

FAMILY MATTERS

Year 13, DC students

Year 13, YHKCC students

Essays, so it’s easy for them to spot young people with a unique ‘edge’, particularly at interviews. These students have intangible skills to offer universities. Tutors are tasked with seeking them out and building a class of confident, bright young talent, who provide creative perspectives at discussion seminars and enliven university life.

Parental priorities Parents’ perspectives, however, can sometimes be at odds with tutors’ priorities. We all want our children to join top classes at highly ranked universities and go on to get well-paid jobs. Our natural focus is to ensure our children’s future security. So the discussion points are not always the same as an admissions tutor’s, who is building an inspired class of critical thinkers who will generate ideas. As parents, how much do we invest in matching our children’s abilities, skills, passion and personalities with three years of study in a particular subject area? Is Law or Accountancy really in a child’s interest? Or, are we biased because we want them to be employed in a secure occupation? Given the amount of change in the world today, can we reliably predict the job market in a decade? How does one do a cost-benefit analysis of supporting a passionate student through a college course that shows poor employability? What about the opposite scenario? These are questions one needs to consider.

cants

4 tips for university appli

1. Take a personal interest: Measure a university not by its national ranking, but by the programmes, organisations and opportunities that align with your passions. If you take a strong personal interest in selecting universities, you will usually find some that match up with your personality and ambitions. 2. Start writing Personal Statements/ Individual Essays early: By so doing, you can ensure that you have put optimal thought into your application and that you have presented yourself to best advantage. 3. Be perfectly lopsided not perfectly well-rounded: Universities are not looking for students who can tick all the boxes. They are looking for students who have realised their passions and ambitions and are looking to pursue these interests and find like-minded individuals. So when you’re choosing your extracurricular activities, don’t choose them because someone else suggested them, or you think they will look good on your application – choose them because you actually enjoy them. 4. Identify your favourite teachers: You’ll need teacher recommendations. So while you don’t need to be a teacher’s pet, you do need to try to achieve exceptional recommendations from teachers in classes that you enjoy the most.

3 tips for parents 1. Let your children focus on school: The IB programme and A-Levels are infinitely more beneficial to your child’s development than studying for university entrance. While they do need proper preparation to excel in these essays, tests and interviews, the real learning they do happens in class and this should never be sacrificed for extracurricular activities or test preparation. 2. Investigate financial aid: Many schools offer merit and non-merit based scholarships. Since the cost of university can be expensive, start saving early and look for opportunities to reduce your child’s tuition fees. 3. Work with an admissions consultant: Your child will get generic information from their school counsellor, but you should definitely seek out the personalised attention and expertise of an admissions consultant – even if just for a few hours. Tips provided by Michael Li, director of US admissions at ITS Education Asia. Visit www.itseducation.asia.  November 2015

FAMILY MATTERS Our experiences as parents and employees show that the international employment market thrives on innovative, critical thinkers, who nurture positive work relationships and contribute individual efforts towards collective results. We know that university degrees provide us with knowledge and skills, and the ability to acquire them. Yet, these can often receive less priority than softer, more intangible skills as one moves towards top leadership roles. Where is the ‘natural fit’ for our child in the work world?

high exam results. The task is immense and it can be difficult for them to envisage life beyond it. Sometimes their university discussions can be very random: “My friend is applying to the same college.” “Someone, last year, said it was a great course.” They may not be looking at university choices thoroughly enough.

Student perspective

For the jigsaw puzzle pieces to fit

Listening to applicants as young adults is important. Some children may lack world experience, but their selfunderstanding can be quite realistic if they’ve done the proper research.

We need to have meaningful discussions with our children in order to better understand their potential. Where do they see themselves in five, 10 years? Year 13 students in particular, are under pressure to ‘tick boxes’ and earn

together easily, parents and students need to have a realistic discussion about ability and the eventuality of success early on. Talking as a family before the university application process starts raises understanding, clarifies choices and better ensures that a school can effectively support a child’s university application with more meaningful written recommendations. This is a partnership where keeping to deadlines is highly important, eases stress and aids progress. Schedule time for redrafting essays, and for on-going discussions. Be ahead of the game, it pays off.

A former international school teacher in Hong Kong, DB resident Barbara Cooper now works independently in supporting families making university selections and applications. Contact her at 9754 2244, info@barbaracooper.me or www.barbaracooper.me.

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November 2015

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Meet the teachers YCIS offers regular private tours and provides information sessions throughout the year. To gain a better understanding of the YCIS International Curriculum, background and educational philosophy, don’t miss the information session on November 26, where you will hear from the Co-Principals and other school leaders.

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MONEY MATTERS

HOLIDAY BUDGETING Joe Dobbs, a professional bond trader based in Lantau, advises on surviving the silly season with at least some of your savings still intact

A Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

t the risk of being considered a Scrooge, my belief is that Christmas should be about giving as much as you can, not all that you have and especially not what you don’t have. Take it from me, holiday spending can quickly snowball into a financial disaster. In our 16 years together, my wife and I have had to recover from our fair share of Xmas overspends. In the early years, we tended to put it all on credit, blithely agreeing to suffer the consequences later. There was no budget, so we were under the illusion that there were no limits – and no limits over Christmas can lead to a pretty bleak January.

For some years now, to avoid getting caught out, we’ve held a dedicated savings account, into which a monthly sum is transferred automatically. Rather like the piggy bank, my daughter Amy, 14, still swears by, it allows us to save gradually and methodically for our (festive) goals. We have ATM and online access to the account, so we can draw directly from it. This helps ensure that the money we’ve set aside for Xmas is the money we actually spend – no juggling between accounts. Using a single, dedicated account also helps us keep an eye on the balance as the holidays progress, and track the true costs without too much effort.

It’s November already, and a bit late in the day for me to advise you on starting a 12-month savings plan – do that next year. For now, here are some practical tips that you can start implementing right now, to help avert post-holiday debt.

Christmas countdown Before the silly season gets into full swing, work out how much you’re able and prepared to spend. The amount will depend on how much you've already saved, how much you can set aside from current funds, and how much you can spare in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Give yourself a little room to manoeuvre and then  November 2015

MONEY MATTERS

stick to your budget – it’s the indicator of what you can and cannot afford. Then it helps to get specific. What are your essential Xmas buys? How much, for instance, would you like to spend on gifts, decorations and food? Create a detailed list for each ‘category’ and add it all up. If what you want to spend and what you actually have to spend doesn’t tally (and let’s face it, it probably won’t), you need to get realistic and make some reductions.

HK$500 or so to a friend’s favourite charity is an interesting gift option, and one that’s become more and more popular in recent years. At the very least, think carefully about where you shop. The IFC and Pacific Place malls are not your only options, and neither are the dedicated Xmas bazaars, where (trust me) you can blow your entire budget in an afternoon.

When cutting costs, look first to your itemised gift list. Xmas is a time for giving, sure, but is there anyone on your list, who you can get away without gifting this year? Does it include people you haven’t seen for years and are no longer close to? If the answer is yes, cross them off. Like I said, get realistic. Do you need to present everyone in your office with an expensive token, or would a well-chosen card suffice? Remember that any gifts you buy that are not covered by your budget will hit your credit card come January.

Restraint begins at home, so talk to your family about the costs involved at Xmas. Reducing your holiday supermarket spend should be easy enough – cutting down on gifts can be more complicated, so sit down and make joint decisions about limits.

It’s easy to get carried away when Christmas shopping, whether in the mall or supermarket, but don’t be fooled into buying things you don’t need. Stick to the lists you’ve made, and avoid impulse buys. ‘Tis the season to be jolly, but no one said anything about giving way to shopaholism.

Last year, I bought all ‘my’ presents online, and it worked out very well. At a site like Amazon, you can limit your search to products that fall within your chosen price range. At this time of year, you’ll find some really good discounts, too. It’s a win-win situation – by finding some of the gifts you want for less, you end up with a little extra to spend elsewhere.

Gifts are the biggest drain on a Xmas budget, and if you have a hard time not overspending in the malls, it’s best to wise-up to the alternatives. Donating

My wife chooses gifts wisely and well. As she says, thoughtfully chosen gifts are worth much more than expensive ones.

Find more monetary advice

November 2015

Just as a gift’s worth is not dependent on its price tag, you can’t judge a gift by its packaging. Cutting down on superfluous Xmas wrapping – bows, bells and gift bags – is a surprisingly effective way to reduce your annual spend. I’m not suggesting you hand over your presents without wrapping them, but why not streamline the packaging? Most of it ends up being recycled, anyway.

Family hold back

Once you have refined your list, and come up with reasonable sums that you would like to spend on each remaining person, add up all of those amounts. If the total is still more than your budget allows, go back and play with the numbers.

Savvy spending tactics

With this in mind, shopping for kids at Christmas is a piece of cake. We like to look past all the high-priced tech toys and Disney gizmos, and find something a little different. Last year, I sent my three-year-old nephew a set of bath toys and a selection of powders to colour his bath water. This little package came in at less than HK$200 and was, I am told, the best present ever.

The costs of buying a gift for every member of the wider family can soon add up, so get on Skype and seek agreement that you’ll only spend so much per person. Deciding to give gifts only to the children will also reduce your costs considerably. At our Christmas party this year, each family is going to bring just one present. All the frugally wrapped gifts will go into a box, or maybe a pillowcase, and we’ll play Luck Dip. I know we’ll have a good time – and save heaps of money. This year too, instead of buying each other 101 small presents, my wife and I are getting ourselves an Apple TV. This way everyone (including Amy, of course) gets the gift that keeps on giving.

@ www.arounddb.com

Photos by Vincent Ypersiel and Sandeep Jain, and courtesy of Jennifer Atepolikhin and Jenny Buck

TALKING POINTS

THRILLS Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

SPILLS

DB kids are training avidly for the Team FEAR Junior Challenge on November 29. Three former competitors (and their mums) tell Melissa Stevens what they got out of it

The water jump off a boat or pier, though not compulsory, is a highpoint for many young competitors

November 2015

TALKING POINTS

re training wheels allowed on bikes? It’s not the question you would typically expect from an adventure race participant but Team FEAR Junior Challenge is not your ordinary adventure race. While participants take part with the guts and gusto associated with adults competing in these types of races, they can be as young as eight years old. This unique event aimed at racers aged eight to 18 years came to be in 2001, after founder Steve Corbin and a friend, Grant Mason, decided to put on a junior version of an adventure race in the villages, waters and hills of Discovery Bay.

Rianna and Rebecca Tilbrook gearing up for last year’s challenge

Steve, a DB resident of 19 years, had been doing a lot of adventure racing in Asia when his son saw him being interviewed on television after a race. “My then eight-year-old son saw me on the show and said, ‘I want to come and do this with you next time’,” Steve recalls. “Obviously that wasn’t possible but Team FEAR grew from there.” There are three courses set from 6 kilometres to 10 kilometres for juniors, intermediates and seniors. While the design of the course varies each year, components have included mountain biking, swimming, canoeing, doing a water jump off a boat or pier (which is not compulsory) and trail running. The course usually takes two to four hours to complete. The event has gone from strength to strength since 2001, attracting more than 700 students from the initial field of 40, and now raising more than HK$100,000 annually for Youth Outreach Hong Kong, from competitor fundraising and sponsor support.

What the kids have to say DB resident, Maxim Atepolikhin, 11, took part in last year’s challenge as he had a lot of friends involved. “I wanted to see what it was like,” the Island School student says. “Every few weeks, before the race, I would practice

Maxim Atepolikhin, back left, at the start of Team FEAR Junior Challenge 2014

running. (I was already pretty good on my bike.) The best part was when we got to jump from the dock into the water. It was also good to race with my friends. We helped each other. I was glad I made it to the finish even though I felt really sick.” Maxim’s mother, Jennifer Atepolikhin, describes Team FEAR as an amazing institution and something DB youngsters gain so much from. “I like the fact that parents run it and that so many kids are involved,” she says. “I felt proud that Maxim wanted to take part last year. He gained a lot from competing as part of a team, and

having the chance to cycle and run and do all the different challenges.” Jenny Buck’s two daughters, Rebecca and Rianna Tilbrook, both at Discovery Bay International School, also took part in the event for the first time last year. “I wanted to encourage them to get off the sofa and off their electronic devices,” Jenny says. “Whenever we have taken them for hikes on the weekends before, we normally get a lot of whinging, but I thought they would be keener if they were training for something, and with friends. They definitely did enjoy the training, and my elder daughter asked  November 2015

TALKING POINTS to continue after the race was over.” Rebecca, who was 10 last year, raced in the Under-12 category and prepared by training every weekend in the leadup. Explaining that the event was harder than she expected in some parts, especially the uphill hiking, Rebecca says: “I had a great sense of achievement afterwards. The best part for me was jumping off the roof of the boat (which is really high, higher than a junk). That was totally cool and gave me an adrenaline rush.” Her sister, Rianna, who at the age of eight was one of the youngest participants last year, also got a lot out of the event. “Some parts were exhausting but I loved wading through the river near DB North Plaza and the swim out to sea from the beach,” she says.

2014 Team FEAR volunteers, with founder Steve Corbin, back left

Find it • Team FEAR Junior Challenge, www.team-fear.com

Find more clubs and activities

@ www.arounddb.com

ESCAPES

GOBLETS AND

GAUCHOS

Photos courtesy of Elizabeth Kerr and www.wikimedia.org

Food, wine, horses, mountains… Argentina’s Mendoza province has it all. Elizabeth Kerr reports

“D

A world away

Under normal circumstances the idea of getting thrown off a horse is no joke,

A 90-minute flight from Buenos Aires and an hour from Santiago, Chile, Argentina’s Mendoza province is the kind of holiday location that is meant to be experienced rather than seen: There are no ‘must-see’ landmarks or ancient sites, no bustling cities with relics spanning the entirety of western civilisation. For anyone travelling from Hong Kong, however, the province’s vast plains, towering mountains,

on’t pull the reins! Stop pulling on the reins!” yell a group of horse trekkers. By then it’s too late. The novice rider has committed the fatal error of pulling on a horse’s reins while the horse was standing still, counterintuitive though it may be, and making the horse rear up. The novice rider? Now sitting comfortably in the tall, soft tufts of grass that dot the plain in the foothills of the Andes, having been deposited there by her steed.

November 2015

but this is a leisurely walk across the Precordillera, part of the Uco Valley in Argentina’s west-central Mendoza province. And it didn’t hurt much.

riding, biking, hiking, beefy cuisine and spectacular under-the-radar wines make it an unforgettable trip. Then there’s the relaxation. Argentineans don’t rush. Pack away your Hong Kong penchant for expecting the menu and the bill 20 minutes apart, and whatever you do, don’t go out for dinner before 9pm. A good place to start a Mendoza journey is in Chacras de Coria, a small town approximately 30 minutes from the provincial capital at Mendoza City. A short drive from Luján de Cuyo and Maipú, and two hours to Tupungato, one of the highest mountains in the

ESCAPES

Uco Valley in Argentina’s west-central Mendoza province with the Cordón del Plata in the distance

Americas, put it at ground zero for wine explorers. One of the best ways to visit the wineries, as well as tour the surrounding area, is by bicycle. Chacras de Coria’s side streets are cobbled but the main roads are not heavily trafficked and Mendocinos are courteous drivers (or simply terrified of hitting tourists). The bike-hire stores will set you up with a map and help you plot a course for the day, pointing out which roads to skip and which spots along the way are suitable for families. The tree-lined streets make riding

comfortable and an easy way to soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Make sure you get an early start and plan carefully, as Mendoza still observes siesta. Things can be pretty quiet between 1 and 5pm.

the town square. Hotels in the city are small and tend to be family-owned and operated, lending a personal touch. Villa Viamonte is a great choice for families, as it has a pool, a playground and self-catering options.

Wine country

Excellent winery choices include industrial Lagarde, 5 kilometres from central Chacras, if only for a spectacular tasting menu at lunch; Clos de Chacras in town for its casual local fare; and organic winery Pulmary, on the main road.

Wine is a big part of any trip to Mendoza. The province has roughly 900 wineries – or bodegas – and many have restaurants, ranging from casual outdoor grilling to refined tasting menus that highlight the high altitude terroir. Chacras de Coria has an unusually high concentration of bodegas in walking distance from

You’ll find Pulmary’s ownerwinemaker Ramiro Maures putting around the warehouse, entertaining   November 2015

ESCAPES visitors with samples and helping them bottle their own port-style wine. Lunch is served up in a relaxing, quirky yard space, and kids can play with the clearly indulged Labrador that lurks in the shade, waiting for beef scraps. Ramiro dropped out of law school to get into the family business and wouldn’t have it any other way. “As a lawyer, people come to you with problems, they’re unhappy,” he quips. “In this job, everyone’s in a good mood and they’re happy to be here.”

Riding into the Uco Va lley

Working ranch stays For part two, a must is getting out to the Uco Valley leading to the Andes. Here, an essential Mendoza, and Argentina experience is staying on an estancia – a ranch. An estancia like the traditional La Alejandra, tucked away near Tupungato, is a working ranch; don’t be surprised if you wind up rustling some cattle while you’re there. And be prepared, everywhere you turn the Cordón del Plata looms in the distance. Soaring 6,000 metres up, it’s not unusual to see snowstorms brewing at the peaks, while bright blue skies stretch for miles right above your head.

ery Outdoor grilling at a win

Take the opportunity to trek the mountains, bike to the nearby wineries (of course), investigate the local music culture or squeeze in a yoga session.

Sleepy, tr ee-lined C

hacras d e Cor

Mendoza province has roughly 900 wineries

Polo may have originated in Asia but it took root in Argentina because of its long gaucho history, and riding shouldn’t be missed, by beginner or seasoned riders, kid or adult. Hundreds of years of history, legends and ballads have helped define the cultural traditions of gauchos (nomadic horsemen and cowhands), and they remain proud and skilled horsemen. If you’re feeling truly adventurous, a gaucho will pack a horse and escort you on a five-day trek over the Andes into Chile. But that’s a trip for another day. Mendoza’s enough for now.

at working ranches Gauchos share their skills

Find more exciting travel destinations

November 2015

Biking a round

@ www.arounddb.com

Chacras de Coria

FINANCIAL PLANNING ASK THE EXPERT HELLO RESIDENTS OF DB, LANTAU AND THE REST OF HONG KONG! It’s time to consult THE EXPERT about your financial planning! My thoughts I understand we all go through different stages of life and so do our insurance needs. But the mandatory insurances required by the Hong Kong Government (including domestic helper insurance and automobile coverage) are always worth due diligence. Note that if you rent your home, you need insurance to protect yourself from public liability lawsuits. And if you have a mortgage, your bank may demand that you take out both fire coverage and mortgage protection insurance. Homeowners insurance is a security blanket. It is designed to protect you in the event of a catastrophe. Therefore, when you are choosing a policy, don’t always look to save money – the best deal may cost you more in the long run. But be sure to shop around. When you receive your annual renewal statement, check to see if you can snag a better deal elsewhere. Consider whether you have too much coverage. It’s common for policies to contain inflation-protection provisions that automatically increase your coverage amount. You may want to adjust your coverage amount to a more realistic figure.

I AM: KayeKaye Khemlani (PIBA No. 0032-009006), a native Englishspeaking insurance advisor, with a strong presence in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong. MY OFFER: I can do a comparison shop for you free of charge, to ensure that you have made the right choice, and check that you have the right product at the right price.

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ACTION

PLAIN SAILING For passionate ‘boaties’, Discovery Bay’s thriving social and racing agenda has all the bases covered. But what would take sailing to the next level in DB? Sam Agars investigates

W Photos by James Branch for LBC, and courtesy of DBYC

ith two thriving sailing clubs, Lantau Boat Club (LBC) and Discovery Bay Yacht Club (DBYC), and an increasing number of participants, sailing is alive and well in Discovery Bay.

More and more DB residents are developing a love for being on the water, whether for the thrills or as a therapeutic pastime, and there are opportunities for budding sailors to get involved. But, despite the healthy state of the sport here, popular opinion suggests there is still plenty of room for growth.

Strength to strength Between them, Discovery Bay’s two major sailing clubs, the LBC and the November 2015

DBYC, have all the bases covered, with the LBC focusing on small boat sailing, including catamarans and dinghies, and the DBYC boasting yachts as long as 60-foot. Both clubs attract the majority of their members directly from Discovery Bay, although there is also a smattering of keen ‘boaties’ from Mui Wo, Pui O and beyond. “We are certainly seeing increased participation levels at the Lantau Boat Club,” LBC sailing chair Steve Devlin says. “Most of our weekly events are attracting 15-plus boats and 30 sailors.” Whether it is action, or relaxation you seek, you will find it in the plethora of races, regattas and social events that are held by both clubs throughout the year. “The events we organise are more social boat racing events and outings

to get out into the islands around DB,” DBYC commodore Lindsay Pickles says. For Lindsay, nothing beats a sea breeze and the sound of water lapping on a boat’s hull. “Even if you have been doing all sorts of stuff during the week, at the weekend you can sail out of DB and into the open water to places and beaches that no one else is at,” she says. The good news for the common punter, who likes the sound of all of this, is that you don't have to own a boat to become involved. Both clubs welcome new members with open arms and there are always boats looking for crew. “Come down to the club and introduce yourself and we will do our utmost to

ACTION

LBC boaties Gabriel Kicks and Tom Nunan, Bart’s Bash

get you on a boat early in the season (May to January), before the serious stuff sets in,” Steve says. “We do some basic training courses where we give people an understanding of sailing, how the winds react and what goes on,” Lindsay says. “We’ve had people who have come along and learnt and have now got their own boats.”

Bart’s Bash and the Asian Open One of DB’s most popular annual sailing events is Bart’s Bash, held this year on September 20. The race saw the clubs join forces to raise funds for Operation Breakthrough Hong Kong, a charity which uses sport as a means to help, rehabilitate and positively reinforce young people

from disadvantaged or families.

backgrounds

Bart’s Bash is named after English Olympic gold medal winning sailor Andrew ‘Bart’ Simpson, who was killed in a sailing accident in 2013. The concept sees clubs the world over band together to raise money for charity, and the event has struck a chord in DB. “Bart’s Bash was an enormous success yet again this year,” Steve says. “It is hard to put a finger on why it has such appeal but the numbers keep coming through.” Then there is the Asian Open Regatta, organised by the LBC, which is the largest multi-hull regatta in Asia and by far the biggest race to grace Lantau’s waters each year. This year’s

event was held over the weekend of October 31, attracting competitors from as far as Australia, Singapore and Japan. Into its 32nd year, the event is known for its fierce and exhilarating competition. “It’s fantastic racing,” LBC commodore Justin Reynolds, who was sidelined from this year’s edition due to a shoulder injury, says. “It’s professional racing and you don’t often come across professional racing in DB, you have to go over to the other [Hong Kong] clubs.”

Room for improvement Despite the aforementioned positives, it is obvious that there is still plenty of room for improvement in the DB sailing landscape. Lindsay throws up  November 2015

ACTION a lack of moorings as a reason that growth is not quicker, with DB close to capacity. “We would have more people who would have boats – yachts – and join us if there were more places to put them, but moorings are very difficult to come by,” Lindsay says. “I think we are pretty much full here and the government won’t give us anymore.”

Fierce multi-hull competition at the Asian Open Regatta

But there is something else that would fast-track DB into one of Hong Kong’s sailing strongholds – a genuine sailing school, focused on the younger generation. “The state of sailing in DB is very good, but my hesitation is that it could be a lot better,” Justin says. “There are a lot of schools in DB and I’ve spoken to some of the principals and they are all very keen on getting a sailing school up and running.” The idea of a sailing school is very much in its infant stages, with significant hurdles standing in the way. There is the issue of a venue, the high costs involved in setting up the school and covering insurance, and the small matter of finding instructors. But Lindsay is a big advocate of the concept and is confident it could be done. “It’s just a case of working out what to do and how to do it,” she says. “The location just by DB North Plaza between Club Siena and the Auberge would be perfect for a sailing school. You would have to build it over the water to get the boats out of the water and have shutters that came down for typhoons. It’s not unreasonable to do that and it would be just brilliant because all the leisure facilities are already there.” There are a number of sailing programmes for children in Hong Kong, at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club and Aberdeen Boat Club to name a couple, and the sport is growing in profile locally. Earlier this

Andy Perrett and LBC sailing chair Steve Devlin, Asian Open Regatta

DBYC commodore Lindsay Pickles with her husband Andy, Sue and Julian Tyson and Steve Hart, Bart’s Bash

year it received Tier-A status, meaning it receives government funding to help mould the next generation of international stars. “When I talk to people, they all want to go sailing,” Lindsay says. “Kids in the marina have grown up with dinghies and lasers but there is nothing organised in DB, which I think is a shame.”

November 2015

With keen kids and the possibility of international recognition, it would seem a no-brainer to start the pathway to the top right here in DB, a sentiment not lost on Steve. “With two large schools close by sailing in DB has huge growth potential,” he says. “If we can get it into a school sport, then the potential is enormous.”

Find it • Discovery Bay Yacht Club, www.dbyc.net • Lantau Boat Club, www.lantauboatclub.com

Find more clubs and activities

LBC commodore Justin Reynolds injured but on board, Asian Open Regatta

@ www.arounddb.com

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HK HAPPENINGS

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH! Photo courtesy of Renaissance Harbour View Hotel

HAIRY CRAB SEASON

Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com

t hou g u Thro ember Nov

Renaissance Harbour View Hotel, Wanchai Said to taste best at this time of year, hairy crab has sumptuous tender meat and beautiful, creamy roe. Dynasty Restaurant at the Renaissance Harbour View Hotel is offering a wide range of delicious hairy crab roe delights, including a six-course hairy crab set menu (HK$1,180 a head, with a two person minimum). For reservations, call 2802 8888.

GEORG BASELITZ EXHIBITION White Cube, Central

out h g u Thro ember Nov

www.whitecube.com

View the work of Georg Baselitz, one of Germany’s most celebrated living artists, at his first ever show of new works in Hong Kong. Baselitz is an acclaimed painter, sculptor, printmaker and draughtsman with a career spanning over 50 years. The exhibition features a series of new paintings, as well as Winterschlafer, a large bronze statue which takes possession of the gallery’s top floor. Visit www.whitecube.com.

er 14 Novemb

WINE AND SPIRITS FAIR

PRESTIGE CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIRS Conrad Hong Kong, Pacific Place

November 5–7 Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai The Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair is Asia’s premier wine event. On top of a wide range of highquality wine, spirits, beer and other alcoholic beverages, there is information about wine production, investment and services. Head to www. hktdc.com/fair/hkwinefairen for tickets and more information.

The Prestige Christmas Gift Fairs provide a comprehensive one-stop shopping experience, with the latest in designer jewellery, fashion, homewares, lifestyle products and more. The Gift and Lifestyle Fair is on November 9, and the PreChristmas Gift Parade hits town on November 25. Visit www.prestigefairs.hk for more information; to sign up as a vendor call 2792 0096.

r mbe e v o N 5 9&2

ISLAND SCHOOL WINTER FAIR Island School, Mid-Levels

Photo courtesy of Island School

Expect commercial stalls, a haunted house, food stalls, a silent auction and plenty more at the Island School Winter Fair, which runs from 12 to 4.30pm. To get there, you can hop on a free hourly shuttle bus at City Hall starting at 11.30am. The entrance fee is just HK$10. For more information, contact mindyoh@me.com. November 2015

www.prestigefairs.hk

HK HAPPENINGS

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders

Photo courtesy of HK Ballet

ROMEO AND JULIET

ber m e Nov 0–22 2

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui Take a trip to 16th century Verona, Italy with Hong Kong Ballet’s stirring performance of Shakespeare’s timeless love story Romeo and Juliet. Choreographed by Rudi van Dantzig and set to Sergei Prokofiev’s rich orchestral score, the ballet is accompanied by the Hong Kong Sinfonietta. Tickets start at HK$140, and there is a limited run of five performances, so head to www.urbtix.hk to grab your seat.

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai

ber 24

Novem

https://vec.wikipedia.org

ber m e v o N 27-29

Photo courtesy of Clockenflap

CLOCKENFLAP

November 2015

1 The Hong Kong Rugby Union

Purse Day, formerly Ladies’ Purse Day, is one of the oldest horseracing events in Hong Kong. A highly anticipated social event, it attracts thousands of ladies (and gents) dressed in their finest. See for yourself, on November 8, at Sha Tin Racecourse.

West Kowloon Cultural District

3 Head to the Hong Kong Coliseum,

Hong Kong’s biggest annual marquee music event, Clockenflap is set to explode, with a world-class line-up featuring the likes of The Libertines, Damien Rice and New Order. Expect international, regional and local music, film and art. For tickets, starting at HK$810 but gradually increasing in price as the event approaches, head to www.clockenflap.com/tickets.

Purchase tickets for all these events at www.urbtix.hk.

Hung Hom, to catch the Hong Kong Open Badminton Championships, part of the World Superseries, from November 17 to 22.

9 November 2

Do your bit to help combat climate change by hitting the streets in the Global Climate March, a worldwide initiative held hours before world leaders meet at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris. The event attracted nearly 700,000 people last year, with organisers hoping even more people will turn out in 2015. For updates on a Global Climate March near you, look to the Around DB Facebook page and www.arounddb.com.

While top-level sport in Hong Kong can be limited, at this time of year there is plenty of quality action.

2 First held in 1846, Sa Sa Ladies’

GLOBAL CLIMATE MARCH Throughout Hong Kong

Throughout Hong Kong

Premiership is underway, offering a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Matches are predominantly held at King’s Park in Ho Man Tin and the Hong Kong Football Club in Happy Valley. Don’t miss the Asia Rugby Sevens Qualifier, November 7 to 8.

ELTON JOHN LIVE

Superstar musician Elton John returns to Hong Kong for an intimate evening with his band as part of his All the Hits Tour. With timeless classics like Bennie and the Jets, Rocket Man and Crocodile Rock, among many others, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member is guaranteed to deliver a show not to be missed. For tickets, starting at HK$488, visit www.hkticketing.com.

GET YOUR SPORT FIX

https://en.wikipedia.org

www.wikimedia.org

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25/03/2013 4:13 PM

50 Years of big adventures And countless life-changing experiences In fifty years we’ve learned a lot about what makes relocations more successful for everyone. With experienced and knowledgeable people on the ground in more than 60 countries we equip you well for your relocation: • We’ll help you get to know the destination well before you go • Show you how to make it easier and more exciting for children, and less stressful for pets • We’ll look after your belongings with expert packing and transport • And when you arrive, we can help you get settled quicker and enjoy the thrill of a new place or a different culture.

Tel: +852 2636 8388 hongkong@crownrelo.com

Go knowing

www.crownrelo.com/hongkong CR Ad-Around DB magazine-19 x132.5.indd 1

11/2/2015 4:41:03 PM

DB FACES

COMMUNITY SNAPS!

Email your photos for DB Faces to info@baymedia.com.hk. Around DB accepts no liability for the photos sent

Who do you know? Find more familiar faces @ www.arounddb.com.

www.evoqueportraits.com

Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar! Congratulations to last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner: Gillian Thompson (@gillians_kitchen)

he best snap wins! Your challenge this month is to share a photo of your favourite place in Discovery Bay on our @around_db Instagram page and hashtag it #arounddb. You have until the 10th of this month to enter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so get tagging.

This is your chance to win a complimentary coffee from Uncle Russ, or a beer from The Pier Bar every day for a week. We will contact the winner via Instagram. Good luck!

oasiq ardDB_op.pdf 2 25/8/15 10:25 am

N E W YO R K

View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com COMMUNITY

HEALTH & WELLBEING

KIDS

RETAIL

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS (MORMONS)

HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

DB MARINA CLUB DEBENTURES

Sunday 1pm. 4/F Discovery College. Visitors welcome. Call 9029 1851

EMPLOYMENT

LANTAU-BASED COURIER

Michael, HK resident, seeks a post as a courier, delivering mail/ small parcels throughout HK. Call 9145 6731

Quit smoking quickly. Divorce/ Post-Divorce Coaching. Resolve: • Fear of Flying/ Public Speaking • Overeating • Couples’ Conflicts • Career & Command-Training Stress • Anger Management • Phobias • Nail Biting • Insomnia • Exam Jitters Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk

AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS Need to lodge your Australian tax return? If you are an expat or collect rental from Australian property, you must lodge an annual return. Let us do it for you here in HK. Contact Dwight Stuchbery, Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, dwight@smats.net, or visit www.smats.net

SERVICES

PETS VERIDIAN LTD

HOME SERVICES FINANCE & INSURANCE

Do you have a C Class or B Class Debenture you are not using? Or one that is expiring, or coming up for extension? Lifestyle Homes has interested buyers. To find out more, contact info@lifestylehomes.com.hk

A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play. Activities to stimulate all areas of development. Come & look at our facilities. Classes for kids from 20 months to 4 years. Morning & afternoon sessions. Call 9511 2107, or visit www.earlyadventures.net

SONTHRA HANDYMAN

Furniture repairing by indoor/ outdoor & polishing specialist. Any kind of solid wood plus hanging pictures (any wall work). • Better quality • Great value • Low prices • Satisfaction guaranteed Contact Peter on 9674 7531, Sonthrapeter@gmail.com

HOUSE DOCTOR HANDYMAN

Fluent in English. Hong Kong permanent resident. • Plumbing • Electrical • Aircon installation & repairs • Curtain, blind, picture, mirror, shelf & picture hanging • Ceiling fan & light installation • Kitchen & bathroom renovation • Assembly of Ikea products • House painting Contact Frank on 9141 5706, housedoc999express@gmail.com

THE PLACE WHERE THE PETS GO - PETCODB

Grooming & Pet Care Services. Trust us to provide loving & safe care for the ones you love! Contact 2914 0382, info@petcodb.com. Visit www.petcodb.com

DOG SERVICES

Home boarding, behaviour modification, Tui Na Massage & grooming. Reliable & honest. 100% safety record over the past 11 years. Contact Dave Chan on 9872 5439, www.quoquoclub.com

RETAIL ABBELIO WINES

Great value! High scoring! Wines from around the world! Free delivery & special offer for Discovery Bay residents. For details, visit http://abw.hk/db, or call 3170 8458

Bookkeeping & Accounting Services. (Manual/ Quickbooks/ Xero/ Kashoo.) Specialising in personal & small businesses. Contact 2987 2146 / 9444 0405, jrh4966@netvigator.com

SONTHRA TAILORING SERVICES

Tailoring for ladies & children. (Shirts, pyjamas. Shalwar Kameez, baby dresses.) Individual designs, copies, alterations & modifications. Bespoke drapery, upholstery, bed & table linens. High quality, excellent service, competitive pricing, satisfaction guaranteed. Contact 9637 1620, sonthrafarnaz@gmail.com

Looking for a place to stay? www.arounddb.com

EXPERT MOVER

• Mover • Storage • Handyman Competitive rates. Professional quality service. Contact 2566 4799, sales@expertmover.hk. Visit www.expertmover.hk

Looking for a business? www.arounddb.com

A fun, happy and safe environment for your children to grow

- Japan qualified – skilled piano technician in DB We can offer professional advice and services on all piano matters; Creating a good sound to make harmony with your heart!

One of the keys to piano maintenance is - How to keep your piano in good condition with a subtropical climate www.88keys.com.hk E-mail: info@88keys.com.hk Tel : 9687 0726

Drop off playgroup for 18 months to 3 ½ years Monday to Friday 9.15-11.45am Teachers qualified in:  Child Development  Behaviour Analysis  Early Childhood Education  Play Therapy

For more information please contact: (852) 96324287 brightsparksdb@gmail.com

November 2015

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com

Meet our Customers of the Month

Sony Mypetshop in the North Plaza. Shop G09-92 Siena Ave. DB North Plaza Tel: 2987 8873 Open Daily 10am – 7:30pm

Greenland Pest Control Tailored Pest Control Solutions for Rodent, Cockroaches, Fleas, Mosquitoes, Termites, Ants, Ticks etc… For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or May 9774 3554 Email: greenlandpest@outlook.com

November 2015

Alcoholics Anonymous If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. No dues or fees. 24 hour hotline: 9073 6922 Lantau hotline: 5668 2667 www.aa-hk.org

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com TRAVEL concoRdE TRAVEL

Leisure Travel & Cruise specialists since 1978. Call 2526 3391, or visit www.concorde-travel.com. Licence No 350343

TUITIon & coURSES

LEARn SPAnISH

Native speaker, DELE examiner. Experienced teacher. IB, IGCSE, A-Levels & HKDSE Business Spanish & courses for adults. Flexible schedule & locations. (Special offers to students who live in DB & Tung Chung.) For enquiries please contact Mr Erik R at 9666 9511, rerikm@hotmail.com

BLACKOUT BOXING Formerly Boxfit

cHInESE (MAndARIn & cAnTonESE), MATHEMATIcS & EnGLISH

Personal Professional Tutoring Service. • Curriculum: HSK, IB, GCSE, SAT • ESF & all international schools, Year 1 to 13 • For students & adults (homework/ exams/ business) • Mother-tongue Chinese tutors from the PRC (Levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) • Mathematics tutors (UK B SC) • Native English tutors. (MA in Education, specialising in Early Childhood Stage) Contact 9107 5655, graciasx@hotmail.com

MAndARIn cHInESE cLASSRooM

In the Greens. Lessons for adults & children, individually & in small groups. Any level/ time/ purpose. Call 6071 9643, or visit www.dbmandarin.com

FULLY QUALIFIEd ScIEncE TEAcHER

With Honours Bachelors Degree. Offering tutoring for KS3 & IGCSE Science (all disciplines) & IB/A’ Levels Physics. Contact 6079 2052, mr.m.walker@yahoo.com.uk

Sunday 2pm at Movement Improvement. Learn precise boxing techniques to strengthen and condition your body. Call: 6926 2168 or 6338 0283 for bookings. Email: Errofit168@yahoo.com

THE RED LANTERN

Genuine antiques, small pieces of delightful furniture from the late ‘Ching Dynasty’

•Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents • Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients • English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Russian, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counsellors

www.resourcecounselling.org Serving the community over 40 years A Member Agency of the Community Chest

Six minutes walk from the Mui Wo ferry to the direction of the Silvermine Beach Hotel.

TEL: 2984 0099 FAX: 2980 4833 EMAIL: glandam@netvigator.com

MUSIc TUToR

Experienced international school teacher, UK conservatoire trained with 17 years successful teaching experience & excellent exam result record. Available to tutor in international exam boards, ABRSM Music Theory & Cello, plus GCSE/IB/AL Music Tuition. For rates, contact 6076 6740, or debsinhk@hotmail.com

November 2015

Find short-term rentals @ www.arounddb.com PROPERTY DB

PROPERTY DB

BRIGHT LUXURIOUS 2-BED

DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS

Fully-furnished sea-view apartment, with fully equipped kitchen, towels & linen, wi-fi & broadband. Very close to DB North Plaza, Club Siena & DB Tunnel Email qiushengproperties@gmail.com

Fully furnished 1-2-bed apartments with beautiful decor, wi-fi & broadband. Well-equipped kitchen, luxurious bedding, weekly cleaning service. Contact Annie on 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com

CHERISH COURT 2-BED APARTMENT At Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished. Call 9108 5525

LUXURY APARTMENTS IN SIENA 2 Spacious 600’ apartments for short- or long-term rental. Quiet with sea views over park, near Club Siena & DB Tunnel. Fully furnished with washer/ drier, bedlinen, kitchenware, 55” TVs, wi-fi, blu-ray home theatre. Contact the owner on 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com

Fully furnished, 2-bedroom flat with wi-fi & Now TV. Full sea view & Disneyland-firework view. Photos available. Contact Jacqueline 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

COSY NEW 1 BEDROOM Cosy & brand-new 1-bedroom flat with sea view, convenient location, fully furnished with bed linen, kitchenware, washer/ drier & English & Chinese TV channels. Free cleaning once every 3 days upon request. Minimum stay 3 nights. Contact Mary on 9726 6219, marydbay@gmail.com

PROPERTY OVERSEAS MODERN 1-BEDROOM FLAT Spacious open layout on a quiet, high floor. Shower & fully equipped kitchen, washer/ dryer. Wi-fi, English movies & news. Just unpack! Competitively priced. Contact 6680 2007, greenmountain123@gmail.com

LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA

FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED

53’ SAILING YACHT, LANGKAWI & THAILAND

Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view. Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished. Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

Stunning 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom sailing yacht in a Langkawi marina, for overnight stay or private charter around Langkawi and Southern Thailand. For details, contact 9732 2544, garry@saffron-marina.com

Stunning cliff-top 2-bedroom beach cottage offering uninterrupted 180 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, just a 5-minute walk to Laguna Beach. For more information, contact 9732 2544, garry@saffron-marina.com

LUXURY 2-BED Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony. Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Charles on 6140 7971, charles@headlandhomes.hk. Contact Katie on 9150 7319, katie@headlandhomes.hk

SLEEPS 4 Bright, fully furnished flat, sleeps 4. Fully equipped kitchen, plus wi-fi & broadband. Towels & linens provided. Minimum stay 1 month. Email dbstay4@yahoo.com

November 2015

AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY Everything you need to know about buying a property in Australia. Information on property markets, taxation, finance, migration & legal. Free online at www.aussieproperty.com

PHUKET VILLA Deluxe, spacious 4-bedroom villa, with ensuite bathrooms & private pool. Wireless internet access, sala, bar & BBQ area. Fully equipped kitchen with laundry area. Close to Laguna. Contact Roenel on 9050 4772, atsea@netvigator.com

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME & RDB TEENS

Pastor James Buckner Tel: 2987 7061 www.dbicc.org

Importing all natural, handmade products from small British producers

GMT FOODS Tel: +852 6647 2292 email: gillian@gmtfoodshk.com www.gmtfoodshk.com www.facebook.com/gmtfoods twitter@gillian_GMT

est. 2009

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com TUNG CHUNG

SOUTH LANTAU

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel

FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

2428 2566 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

Airport Izakaya Andante Bistro Delifrance Café Aficionado Chef’s Choice China Coast Bar & Grill Deli Viet Erawan Essence Federal Palace Restaurant Mansarover Indian Cuisine McDonald’s Delivery Moccato Olea Pizza Hut Regala Café & Dessert Bar Rouge Skycity Bistro Spaghetti House Starz Wine Bar Zentro Garden

2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4187 2286 6238 6504 4208 2286 6898 2109 0036 3760 6633 3602 8808 2626 0181 2109 1927 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 2330 0000 2286 6618 2286 6868 3969 1888 2109 1297 2109 0612 2802 8000

Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear Como Lake Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar High Tide Restaurant La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Mavericks Restaurant, Pui O Tak Chai Kee Seafood The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep

Dalcroze Impact Fitness Jill Marshall Pilates South Lantau Paddle Club Tony’s Salon Treasure Island

6627 4806 6385 0304 9708 0187 9688 9112 2984 0990 2546 3543 HOME & REPAIRS

3147 4088 2185 6550 2109 9396 2109 2288 2988 1534 2328 7282 3575 8370 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488 HOTELS

Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong Regal Airport Hotel

3969 1888 3602 8888 2286 8888

LEARNING CENTRES

Clement Art School Discovery Mind International Play Centre Greenfield International Kindergarten Kidznjoy Sakura Kids Salala Kids House Soundwaves English Education Centre Sun Island Education Foundation Sunshine House International Preschool The Story Studio Tung Chung Catholic School (Yat Tung) YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College

9021 1502 2987 8070 2162 5538 6273 7347 6674 6194 2611 9193 9045 2914 2420 1068 2109 3873 6341 3989 2109 4962 2988 8123

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

9 Dragons Fitness Asia Pacific Soccer Schools Caribbean Coast Club House Coastal Skyline Club House Dance for Joy Edge’n Pointe Dance Centre Jumping Castles Perun Fitness Seaview Crescent Club House Smash Cricket Tung Chung Crescent Club House

2786 9699 2385 9677 2109 9277 2179 6678 9264 8597 6688 2167 9662 1747 6443 6597 3473 8700 5400 4109 2403 6770

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

Tung Chung Ambulance Depot Tung Chung Fire Station Tung Chung Police Station

2984 0222 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 5465 5511 5662 8552 2984 1265 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2980 2699

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Asian Hairdressers Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung Chung Vet Centre Tung Chung Maternal & Child Health Centre Quality Health Dental Quality Health Medical Raffles Medical

LANTAU NUMBERS

2988 8282 2988 8733 3661 1694

Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering New Look Design Unitek

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 9783 5840 9156 0360 HOTELS

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES

DEI Kindergarten Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Lao Shi Lantau Mandarin lessons Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten The Story Studio

2109 9886 2984 0302 2980 3676 5197 4647 3689 6709 2984 0006 6341 3989

PROPERTY AGENCIES

Findley Leung Real Estate Home Solutions Real Estate Proper Trip Real Estate

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Friendly Bike Shop Lantau Base Camp Quay House Red Hall Chinese Antiques The Red Lantern ZenvarA

2134 1234 2984 2278 5463 6060 2882 8710 2988 1368 2984 0099 9586 3459 SERVICES & OTHERS

Jumping Castles SPCA Phoenix Wills Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio)

6108 3400 2984 0060 6108 8471 9025 3949 3114 0030 6351 8923 TRANSPORTATION

Lee Hing Loong Hon Kee Transportation Company Lantau Tours New Lantau Bus Company

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

DB NUMBERS

LEARNING CENTRES

COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza Beautiful Gate BMSE, North Plaza Catholic Church (Trinity Chapel) DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Health Cares IMI (Natural Medicine Clinic), North Plaza Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza

2987 0855 2323 0738 2259 3422 2987 9909 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 2666 6183 2834 7276 2537 1087 2987 7575 2987 9003 9879 0469 2259 3422

Little Explorers A drop-off playgroup for ages 18 months upward. Your child will have heaps of fun and make lots of new friends. 9327 0507

Playtime Kids DB

2812 2660 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098

DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven Convenience Store Fusion by PARKnSHOP Just Green Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome, North Plaza

2987 4401 2987 7486 2448 1180 2987 4089 2947 9092

FINANCIAL SERVICES HSBC Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd

2233 3000 2987 1851

2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2987 0222 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2886 8555 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428

LEARNING CENTRES

Musical Drama – Acting – Musical Theatre Tues & Wed classes at Discovery College 4 to 12 yrs - 2 fully costumed performances a year 8122 9475 admin@actingantics.com www.actingantics.com

Brightsparks Playgroup Fun, safe and interactive environment for your children. 9632 4287

Future Stars Dance Academy

Dance classes based on the ISTD requirements conducted in a fun, disciplined and safe environment. 2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

Island Dance A dance school offering ISTD Freestyle, Hip Hop & Tap & RAD Ballet classes from Monday to Saturday at DBRC & Club Siena. All ages welcome. 2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk

November 2015

2987 1373 2987 8494 2914 2378 3105 3588 2987 7111 2987 8898 2987 1777

OTHER SERVICES

The Best Travel Agency in DB 2987 2626 cas@appletravel.com

Harvey Law Group Previously Midget Gems Kids Club 6341 5764, www.positivestepsplaygroup.com positivestepsplaygroup@gmail.com

Tree of Joy A playgroup offering a variety of fun classes to children from 14months to 3years+ under a nurturing and enriching environment. 9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com www.treeofjoydb.com

HOME Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre May’s furniture & curtain design Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Tactful Design & Build Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre

Bookazine, North Plaza Dymocks & Gallery Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd Fun to Read, North Plaza Movieland Pen’n Paper P-Solution

Apple Travel Playgroup run by Montessori-trained teacher. From 6 months to 4 years. 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES BtoKidz, North Plaza Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic Start-rite

MULTIMEDIA

Let us take the stress out of homework Homework Club and Private Tutoring, conveniently located. 9522 3297 info@wiseowl.com.hk www.wiseowl.com.hk

Woodentots is a Montessori playgroup providing a caring and nurturing environment in the Plaza. Run by a qualified Montessori teacher for children aged 2 1/2 - 5 years. 6108 9131 woodentotsdb@gmail.com Art is a Verb, North Plaza Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Playgroup Eye Level Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Kumon, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza Links Parenting, North Plaza Little Explorers English For Kids Mandarin for Munchkins, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten, North Plaza Treasure House

2682 8099 6114 2436 2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2914 2202 2987 1201 2987 4338 2987 9644 9366 0000 6302 6327 2416 3088 2459 8808 8191 0813 6114 2436 9327 0507 2480 3909 2987 8608 2987 8143 2987 8143 2987 4217

Around DB’s December issue is coming out

December 1

International Canadian Law Firm in DB North Plaza offering you customised legal services on the many aspects of your personal and professional life 2116 1333 www.harveylawcorporation.com

PetcoDB Grooming & Pet Services With Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love 2914 0382 info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com Amity Shoes Care Gillian florist, North Plaza Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

5369 2329 2529 8256 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS

AQUABLU

Boat/ Yacht Sales & Brokerage - Berths/ Debentures - Marine Insurance - Marine Problems/ Resolution 6017 7802 Oceanblu@netvigator.com

Lifestyle Homes & Boats 2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Centaline Property Agency EPS Property Consultants Headland Homes Hong Kong Boats & Homes Kingsland DB Land Master Property Okay.com Savills Hong Kong

2987 8484 2987 2023 2987 2088 6055 0146 2987 2987 2987 6238 2102 0888 2987 1919

FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS

% Arabica Coffee Roaster & Farm DB North Plaza 2885 1312 info@arabica.hk www.arabica.hk 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Berliner

2987 2298 2295 8288 2987 8203

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Chef’s Choice, North Plaza Ebeneezer’s Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Kiraku Tei Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery Life Café McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Nevale Kitchen, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Salt & Pepper Solera Subway Super Super The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zaks

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

2987 0966 2987 2848 2172 6111 2987 0036 2987 2915 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 2886 2987 0767 2987 1829 2591 1422 2987 8280 2987 1337 2172 7099 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2336 8001 2555 0772 2914 0005 2914 1308 2777 8411 2682 0068 2682 8110 2987 6232

Junior Cricket Academy Cricket for 3.5 to 15 year old girls and boys Tel: 9011 1319 www.dbcricketclub.com

Movement Improvement Specialized training in Pilates, Yoga, TRX, Spinning, Circuits and Personal training. The complete solution on your doorstep at DB North Plaza 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk

Gymnastics Programs, Health Consultancy, Weight Management & Nutritional Supplements 2870 3524 www.sportsmanship.usana.com

The HIT Room Bodypump, Grit Strength, Boxing, Core, TRX, High Intensity Training. Located at North Plaza 6621 7410 www.thehitroom.com.hk info@thehitroom.com.hk

Tinytots

Bayside Aquatics

A professional sports play program specially designed for children 16 months - 5 years of age. 3488 7724 info@tinytots.com.hk www.tinytots.com.hk

“Everyone is a swimmer” Affordable Swimwear, training equipment & accessories. 9725 3142 www.baysideaquatics.hk

Vikings Football Club Professional Soccer Coaching From ages 18 months to 8 years Tel: 9533 2600 vikingshk@outlook.com www.vikings.hk

CAISSA Chess Club HK The Club gets together at the DB North Plaza Community Center 9681 2896 contact@caissahk.com www.caissahk.com

DARUMA SPORTS Offering Judo classes for adults & children at Discovery College & Community Hall 6244 6093 darumasports@gmail.com

Club Siena DBees Ice Hockey DB Pirates Ltd. Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club GigaSports

2987 7382 6473 4277 2517 8248 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381 2320 1238

TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES

Discovery Bay Cricket Club An internationally acclaimed club which provides a structure under which players, regardless of age or ability, can thrive. Tel: 9011 1319 www.dbcricketclub.com

Babyland Bo Bo House Discoveryland Toysland

2997 8080 2987 4230 2441 0098 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES

Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more! 6624 8712 susan@embody.hk www.embody.hk

HK Dragons Football Club Football for 2.5- to 14- year old girls and boys 2987 4274 www.dragons.hk

Limousine Rental

Limo service in HK & China • pick up from / to DB Tunnel • direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@gmail.com ACCESSDB Rehabus DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES 24-hour Customer Service Hotline China Light & Power Emergency China Light & Power Information Line Discovery Bay Commercial Services Discovery Bay Fire & Ambulance Discovery Bay Management Discovery Bay Medical Services Discovery Bay Office Centre Discovery Bay Police Discovery Bay Post Office Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Report Room San Hing Gas Co Typhoon Signal Enquiries Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department

3651 2345 2728 8333 2678 2678 2987 4242 2987 7502 2238 3601 2525 6798 2238 3388 2987 4052 2987 6046 2435 4511 2988 2369 2987 6738 2835 1473 2811 0788 2824 5000

WELLBEING

Sportsmanship

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

DB NUMBERS

6283 9270 2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351 2987 6348 2987 0208 2987 9368

Child & Family Development Practice Developing potential, exploring possibilities 2914 2223 www.childdevelopment.com.hk info@childdevelopement.com.hk

My Health Coach Lulu Improve your life balance through health and self awareness. I am able to offer a bespoke program just for you. 9154 1570 lulu@myhealthcoachlulu.com www.myhealthcoachlulu.com

M Spa Provides door-to-door treatment service. Conveniently located in the Plaza. Reflexology, massage, pedicure/manicure. 2987 0614

Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266

MOW | Grooming & Skin Care A unique retail & treatment space at DBN, that caters to your grooming, skin care & therapeutic requirements 2499 8826 / 6773 3103 www.mowhk.com mowhk@mowhk.com Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Body Talk Maximum Care Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch Spa Siena Strand and Science HairSPA, North Plaza

2987 0283 6683 5755 2987 2060 2987 4112 2987 9198 2987 7382 2886 3820

View the business directory

@ www.arounddb.com November 2015

OUT THERE

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Earlier this year, Time magazine reported that 100,000 tons of smuggled frozen meat, some of it over 40 years old, had been discovered in China. The idea was to sell it off cheaply, like so many exploding watermelons. Peter Sherwood gets involved

ne am on the Discovery Bay ferry from Central; a whisper from the seat behind me: “Psst! Hey you, Peter. Wanna make some serious money? Listen up. You’ve got what I need.” “Why me?” “Your reputation. You’re a journalist, a seeker of truth, you tell it as it is.” “And what have you got?”

rice were found contaminated with cadmium, and that stuff can metalplate your kidneys. You want alarming? Try this: fake honey flavoured with enough industrial poisons to perforate a hedgehog.” “Yes, but that’s no reason to resolutely and with malicious aforethought threaten the lives of millions.” “That’s it, Peter, now you’re getting it. Use lots of big, intelligent sounding words in your article.”

“Meat, baby, 100,000 tons of the stuff. It’s half frozen and in what you might call a state of advanced entropy. Got it on the cheap. We can smuggle it into China and flog it for millions.” “Is this a joke?” “Nope. You write something praiseworthy about the magical nutritional properties of these putrefying products and we can dump the lot for big bucks.” “You’re serious?” “Deadly, if you’ll forgive the pun. Some might call it slime, but you can refer to it as mature organic. We need to move fast, the stench is terrible.”

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“But it would make people ill.” “Yeah, well, no one’s forcing them to eat it… freedom of choice and all that.”

“You’re crazy.” “Sure, but you’re impoverished. I know, ‘cause you’re a writer, and unless you’re J. K. Rowling, you blokes don’t make enough to feed my dog. So, what do you say?”

Food, dangerous food “I say it’s outrageous.” “Maybe, but it’s hardly new. In China they can produce food not fit for a landfill. What about

the rat meat they passed off as mutton, and the infant milk formula fiasco?” “Well yes, there have been incidents.” “Incidents?! Like the Titanic was an ‘incident’? Wake up! What about the exploding watermelons, and the fake eggs. Hell, that’s nothin’. Vast silos of

“But… ” “But, nothin’. Let me take you back to the thousands of tons of gutter oil full of dangerous toxins sold to food manufacturers, and the fake whiskey full of a poisonous plasticizer.” “OK, OK, I get it. But exploding watermelons?”

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 16 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and he has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

Find more from Peter November 2015

“Look, I really don’t think…” “C’mon, this is routine across the border. Remember the 3,000 bloated pig carcasses they found drifting serenely down the Huangpu River, and that’s where Shanghai gets its tap water. Get this: the authorities were faster than a frozen frog in an icefall to declare it safe to drink.”

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