December 2014 issue

WE WISH YOU A MERRY XMAS!

HEAD INTO

FAMILY

THIN AIR

FESTIVITIES

HIMALAYAN CLIMBS AND TEAHOUSE TREKS

WHY GAME PLAYING IS A GOOD MOVE!

D E C 2 014

L

s ’ et

W in ticket theatre s , ch comp ildren’s work uter m a t e r s h o p s an d ni t y w raps!

celebrate!

Life-changing inspiration for the holidays!

Join your community online @ www.arounddb.com

Publishers in DB since 2002

DECEMBER 2014

尚堤 Chianti

$15K/4.2M

康慧台 HILLGROVE

$20K

海堤居 LA COSTA

$36K

T

EN

G EA

L

SO

Gross: 665’ Saleable: 511’ 1

Gross: 699’ Saleable: 591’

Particle layout with balcony and 24 hr concierge service. A must see!

1

海澄湖畔二段 SIENA TWO

$60K

2 1

Well maintained with balcony, walking distance to DB plaza and pier. Ready to move into.

海堤居 LA COSTA

$65K/21M

Gross: 1037’ Saleable: 927’ 3 2

Nice decoration, open view, fully equipped kitchen & walking distance to DB plaza & pier.

悅堤 POSITANO

$65K

T

EN

G EA

L

SO

Gross: 1388’ Saleable: 1110’ 3

Rare in market. Beautiful large lawn and patio. Fully upgraded with all new appliances.

2

庭安閣 CHERISH COURT

Saleable: 1700’

Gross: 1355’ Saleable: 1189’

$4.6M

3 2

Nicely renovated house, terrace with stunning sea views & walking distance to DB plaza & pier.

寶珊閣 CORAL

$5.75M

3 2

Brand new duplex, spacious living, exclusive lift lobby and new standard luxury living.

康和閣 BRILLIANCE

$6.98M

T

EN

G EA

L

SO

Gross: 629’ Saleable: 546’ 2 1

Gross: 796’ Saleable: 689’

One of a kind renovation! Open plan kitchen.

A must see!

觀星樓 STARVIEW

$9M

2 1

碧濤軒 COASTLINE

Gross: 1243’ Saleable: 1028’ 4 2

Spacious and quiet combined unit, well equipped kitchen and rare in market. A must see!

Bright and airy renovated, balcony with great views and close to DB plaza and pier. Good value.

$13.5M

Gross: 919’ Saleable: 776’ 2 1

海澄湖畔 SIENA

2

Fully renovated lowrise, spacious living and balcony with open views. For sale with tenancy.

$18.8M

Gross: 2055’ Saleable: 1633’

Gross: 1560’ Saleable: 1347’ 3

Well maintained unit, open plan kitchen, balcony with amazing sea views. Convenience location.

4 3

Spacious & bright lowrise duplex, high ceilings, modern kitchen & close to schools. A must see!

Hong Kong’s First Exclusively Dedicated HairSPA. Do you want to improve the health of your hair and scalp with an exceptional therapeutic treatment?

Equipped with state of the art technology to perfect your hair and scalp with clinically proven results.

Giving you beautiful healthy shiny hair.

A relaxing therapeutic experience from the moment you enter the door.

SErvicES offErEd: Hair Analysis: Take the guesswork away.

Get a diagnostic approach to understand what hair type you really have .

Hair treatments: Detoxification, Moisturizing and Damage Repair, Oil Therapy and Smoothening, to make your hair the best it can be.

Get your individual personalized hair/ scalp home management plan to maintain beautifully healthy hair and scalp.

Healthy proven by Science Australia Certified Oils

Book now

your appointment

for Hair Treatment Tips like us on Flat 17 1/F Block 2 DB North Plaza (above Paisanos) | www.strandandscience.com | info@strandandscience.com |

Ph. 2886 3820

For making the Held on 16th November 2014 such a great success

The Production Team for

Picnic in the Park 2014 would like to express our gratitude for the continued generosity and support of our sponsors. Without them the event would not be possible.

We would also like to thank all of you braving the elements and joining the fun this year. We will see you again on November 7, 2015 for a very special 10th anniversary festival!

DECEMBER 2014 FEATURES

46

38

PROFILE Meet DB’s down-to-earth, self-help guru Marc Menard

42

IN FOCUS Foodie entrepreneurs, mixing business with pleasure

50

FAMILY MATTERS What kids learn through game playing

61

MONEY MATTERS Changing up financial habits over the holidays

68

ESCAPES Trekking in Nepal: a riot of risks and rewards

72

ACTION Thrills and spills at the Asian Open Regatta

77

LIFESTYLE Decorating tips for a magical Christmas

REGULARS 50

37

COMPETITIONS Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com

46

TALKING POINTS Pantomime fun for child actors

66

MOMENTS Highpoints of an epic swim around Lantau

84

DB FACES Candid community snaps

96

OUT THERE Thoughts on island life

AGENDA 68 38

72

10

IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news

33

ACROSS LANTAU See what’s happening island wide

81

HK HAPPENINGS Find fun things to do across the harbour

86

CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, businesses and more

90

PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent

93

LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau

WE WISH YOU A MERRY XMAS!

Readers with a feature story idea, please email editor@arounddb.com If you would like to publicise a local event, email hannah@arounddb.com For general enquiries, email info@arounddb.com To advertise, email lissa@arounddb.com Around DB, Bay Media Ltd, 7E Glamour Court, Discovery Bay Call 2987 0577 | Fax 2987 0533

For the latest Around DB updates, find us on

Facebook

ON THE COVER

FAMILY

S FESTIVITIE

HEAD INTO

PLAYING WHY GAME MOVE! IS A GOOD

THIN AIR N CLIMBS

HIMALAYA TREKS AND TEAHOUSE Win theatre tickets, children compute ’s workshops r maternity and wraps!

D EC 2 014

t’ celebrate!

Le

s

on for the ing inspirati Life-chang .arounddb.com

unity Join your comm

holidays!

Publishers

in DB since

DB self-help guru Marc Menard with realtor girlfriend Lea De Lara Photo by Terry Chow

2002

online @ www

Twitter and www.arounddb.com

YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY EVENTS!

Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@arounddb.com Editor Rachel Ainsley editor@arounddb.com Editorial coordinator Hannah Ball hannah@arounddb.com

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

Advertising Lissa Morris lissa@arounddb.com Accounts Beatrice De Magistris accountant@arounddb.com Art direction Terry Chow cckterrychow@gmail.com Photography Baljit Gidwani Leticia Lemos (intern) Koharu Urawa (intern) Emma Yong (intern) Illustration Fred Boot Rift Leschinsky Contributors this month Beverly Au Jane Clyde Gordon Franks Elizabeth Kerr Katrina Raimann (intern) Nina Rossiter (intern) Peter Sherwood Karmel Schreyer Nic Tinworth Kate Whitehead 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.

Photos courtesy of Mandy Woolf

er 24

Octob

Walk or roll FOR ATAXIA Tai Pak Wan

DB playgroup Dumper Trucks & Daisies’ first fundraiser, Walk or Roll for Ataxia, was held in support of one of its pupils three-year-old Kai Moreland, who has Ataxia.

75KM ENDURANCE SWIM! Around Lantau

Huge congratulations to the managing director of Sports World, 2 Bruce Pye and his coach, four-year DB resident Olivier Baillet, on r e b m Nove their epic swim around Lantau, for Plastic Free Seas. To donate er 29 – Octob to their cause, visit www.justgiving.com/75kmswimchallenge.

To read more turn to page 66.

Photos by Around DB and Vincent Ypersiel

IN&AROUND DB

er 31

Octob

Photos by Leticia Lemos and Koharu Urawa

HALLOWEEN FUN!

Headland Drive and DB Plaza ber Novem

21,000 BOXES OF HOPE!

3-7

Box of Hope, which collects useful/ educational gift boxes for underprivileged children across Asia, this year, collected a recordbreaking 21,000 boxes across Hong Kong, including 1,370 in DB and Tung Chung.

Photos courtesy of Alison Wyatt and Michelle Mouton

December 2014

11

IN&AROUND DB

PICNIC IN THE PARK Siena Park and Bayside • • • • • •

12

Performers: 500 Acts: 60 Volunteers: 50 Crowd: Over 10,000 Weather: Wet and wild, didn’t spoil the fun!

Funds raised: HK$150,000 to date for Hong Kong Student Aid Society and Hong Chi Association

December 2014

ber Novem

8 Photos by Leticia Lemos, Koharu Urawa and Emma Yong

For more info visit www.jewishlantau.com

4TH annual

BS”D

Ci nHt hAe N U K A H LANTAU

PL A Z A DB

Dec.16.2014

4:30pm-6:30pm

FREE CARNIVAL GIANT MENORAH LIGHTING Project of Chabad of Lantau

SPECTACULAR BUBBLE SHOW!

Proudly sponsored by:

By Bill &Missy In honor of Chabad By the Palant Family

IN&AROUND DB

DB 10KM RUN FOR CHARITY DB Plaza

• Overall winner: Thomas Kiprotich, 32 minutes, 17 seconds • First female finisher: Emma Bruce, 42 minutes and 20 seconds • Over HK$186,000 raised for Watchdog Early Education Centre

ber Novem

8

Photos by Koharu Urawa

ASIAN OPEN REGATTA DB and Peng Chau waters

• Overall winners: Michael Scantlebury and David Harris • Around the Island race: Chris Fraser and Ed Blondel • Dart 18 Division: Branco Ng and Henry Kwok • F18 Division: Michael Scantlebury and David Harris • Hobie 16 Division: Tong Shing and Kit Tong • Open Division: Steve and Jade Wallace To read more about the event, organised by Lantau Boat Club, turn to page 72.

14

December 2014

ber Novem

8-9 Photos by Terry Chow and James Branch

SUPERIOR TAILORS

“God made Men, we made them Gentlemen” Order your Custom Made Suits, Shirts, Jackets & Tuxedos with us!

We use high quality EUROPEAN fabrics at a most reasonable price.

We also provide convenience of getting measured up in your preferred location in Hong Kong and deliver the suit at your doorstep.

Book your appointment NOW!

Only HK$2990 for 1 suit, 1 shirt & 1 tie Open to the public WE DON’T SELL GIMMICKS, WE SELL QUALITY FABRICS ONLY Preview the fair at:

www.prestigefairs.hk

• designer jewellery • accessories • ladies fashion • maternity fashion • handbags • baby clothing • • health products •

• home decor • organic products • chocolates • travel guides • holiday offers

Organised by:

Call Mike on 9046 4799 Room 1528 Beverley Commercial Centre 87-105 Chatham Road, TST Kowloon Tel: 2770 3257 Email: superiortailorshk@gmail.com

IN&AROUND DB

DC Family FUN DAY! Discovery College

ber Novem

15

Photos by Leticia Lemos

Walk for OPERATION SANTA CLAUS

ber Novem

15

Discovery Mind Kindergarten, Coastline

A crowd of over 500 took part in the ninth Discovery Mind Operation Santa Claus Sponsored Walk around DB.

Photos by Terry Chow

16

December 2014

IN&AROUND DB

Team FEAR! Throughout DB

This year’s Team FEAR Junior Challenge saw an incredible 700 young adventure racers compete.

For race results, visit www.team-fear.com, or www.arounddb.com.

ber Novem

16 Photos by Vincent Ypersiel, Sandeep Jain and Stephen Chu

18

December 2014

IN&AROUND DB

DBIS International FOOD FAIR Discovery Bay International School

ber Novem

22

Photos by Koharu Urawa, www.highjumpphotography.com and courtesy of Beatrice De Magistris

Playgroups in

DB

BRIGHTSPARKS PLAYGROUP, PARKRIDGE VILLAGE

18 months to 3.5 years 9632 4287, brightsparksdb@gmail.com

A fun, safe and interactive environment that nurtures children’s creativity and self-discovery. Afternoon phonics, cooking and art classes for kids 3 years + are also offered.

DUMPER TRUCKS & DAISIES PLAYGROUP, DB PLAZA

16 months to 4.5 years 9667 6921, mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com

Using Montessori methods, the focus is on the growth and development of the whole child in a caring and nurturing environment. Mandarin and Yoga are included in the programme.

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP, GREENS

FUNFIT, CLUB SIENA

6 months to 3 years 9380 5771, info@funfit.hk, www.funfit.hk An active learning programme which helps develop children’s balance, coordination, fine and gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination and much more! Caring for your children’s future health and fitness!

LITTLE EXPLORERS, PHASE 1

18 months and up 9327 0507, littleexplorers@team-fear.com An established playgroup, providing a caring and stimulating learning environment with an emphasis on learning through play and having loads of fun!

MIDGET GEMS KIDS’ CLUB, DB PLAZA

2 to 4 years 6341 5764, dbmidgetgems@gmail.com A long-established and dedicated playgroup, that’s big on the fun factor! Encouraging friendships and independence through creative play, in a well-equipped and nurturing environment.

PLAYTIME KIDS, CHERISH COURT

6 months to 4 years 9054 0565, playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com A well-established playgroup, run by a Montessori-trained teacher with lots of experience. A great, supporting, stimulating and loving environment for little ones to learn from.

20 months to 4 years 9511 2107, 2987 9644, info@earlyadventures.net, www.earlyadventures.net

WOODENTOTS, DB PLAZA

A long-running playgroup with bright and spacious facilities. A warm and caring environment where children are offered exciting and interesting activities, so they can achieve their full potential.

A caring and nurturing environment, run by a qualified Montessori teacher, in which children grow and learn through self-discipline and self-discovery.

2.5 years to 5 years 6108 9131, woodentotsdb@gmail.com

AROUND DB

YOUNG WRITER’S COMPETITON 2014!

ALL SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS LIVING AND/ OR STUDYING ON LANTAU ARE ELIGIBLE TO ENTER!

Around DB’s Young Writer’s Competition (YWC) is your chance to prove and improve your writing skills, express your ideas and get published! From the articles submitted, our three mentors will each select a winning story and work on improving it with the author. The three finished articles will then be posted on the Around DB Facebook page for an online vote.

You are • A secondary school student living and/ or studying on Lantau The article is • A nonfiction account of 600 to 700 words, about a life-changing moment in your life or someone else’s • Authors submit their name, age, year group and school (the mentors will be given the age of the writers only) How it works • March 10: Deadline for submission to info@arounddb.com • March 11 to 16: The mentors select three winning entries • March 17 to April 13: Each mentor meets with one winning writer to provide advice on improving the article. The writer reworks the piece and resubmits it to his/ her mentor, who checks it and passes it to Around DB for online posting • April 14, 8am: The three winning articles are posted on the Around DB YWC 2014 finalists: Facebook page for readers to vote online Sean Ho Lok Sung, Laila Joy Albuquerque and Navin Jain • April 19, 6pm: Online voting ends • April 20: The results of Around DB Young Writer’s Competition 2014 are posted on the Around DB Facebook page and www.arounddb.com What you get • The winning article is published in the May issue of Around DB • All three finalists are profiled in the April issue of Around DB • HK$1,000, HK$500 and HK$400 Dymocks’ book vouchers for first-, second-, and third-place winners • A copy of Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand, for all three finalists, plus the three runners-up • Prize giving at Dymocks DB, the competition sponsor About the mentors DB residents Karmel Schreyer and Peter Sherwood are delighted to be reprising their role as YWC mentors, and this year Around DB is delighted to welcome Elizabeth Kerr on board to round out the mentoring team. All three mentors are writers and journalists of long-standing and, of course, Around DB contributors. Karmel, Elizabeth and Peter are thrilled to have this opportunity to share their insights and help Around DB’s young readers get published for the first time.

Be sure to check the YWC guidelines @ www.arounddb.com, or the Around DB Facebook page, and submit your article by March 10 to info@arounddb.com Find us on

Facebook

Twitter and @ www.arounddb.com

YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS!

IN&AROUND DB

Find more information and events @ www.arounddb.com

ber 1 to Decem

7

RESIDENT’S CHOICE AWARDS In the Around DB Resident’s Choice Awards 2014, you get to choose the best restaurant in Lantau! Three local restaurants, the ones reviewed the most on www.arounddb.com, were shortlisted last month, and you now have from December 1 to 7 (at 6pm) to vote for the winner. Simply go to the Around DB Facebook page to show your support – the restaurant that gets the most ‘likes’ during the online vote wins! You can check the results at www.arounddb.com from December 9, and read all about the winner in our January issue.

ber

Throughout Decem

TO ADOPT A PET through Protection

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

DC ARTS FEST! Discovery College

At the Discovery College (DC) Discovery Arts & Culture Festival, student activities range from Chinese dragon dancing and Capoeira to stage fighting, cartoon art and cake decorating. ber 2-10 emb The festival kicks off at 8.45am, ece De m er 2-10 c D with a carnival parade. The Photo by Nancy Paddison whole community is invited to a performance by UK-based children’s musical theatre performers Scotty & Lulu on December 5 at 4pm. For tickets, go to www.ticketingover.com, or the DC Parent Teacher Association shop. Email pta@dc.edu.hk for more information.

24

December 2014

NEW HAIRSPA IN DB! DB North Plaza

December 4

For a scientific approach to all things hair- and scalprelated, check out Strand and Science’s HairSPA, opening in DB North Plaza on December 4. Set up by the director of Ybera Asia, five-year DB resident, Photo courtesy of Aline Jahns, the spa offers up a relaxing environment Strand and Science for assessment, diagnosis and treatment. You can contact info@strandandscience.com or visit the Strand and Science Facebook page, and the www.strandandscience.com website launches on December 4.

BUILD HOUSES IN BATUG! DB non-profit, One Block for Batug is looking for donations and volunteers to help build homes for families in the village of Batug in Leyte Photo courtesy of Province, Philippines, Andrea Roa Buco which was devastated

by Typhoon Yolanda in November last year.

To volunteer in Batug next February, call the charity’s founder, 10-year DB resident Andrea Roa Buco on 9137 6269, or email ambikhadevi@yahoo.com. To find out more, visit the One Block for Batug Facebook page.

IN&AROUND DB

DB GOLFING

TOM NUNAN TRIO

December 1 is the deadline to sign up for the Discovery Bay Residents Golf Society (DBRGS) Annual Championship, taking place on December 5. There are just 56 spaces available, for DBRGS members and their guests, and entry is first come, first served. To take part in the Big Sai Wan (BSW) Masters, golfers can enrol any time before the event on December 19. For more on DBRGS, visit www.dbrgs.com; for BSW, visit www.bigsaiwan.com.

19 ber 5 & m e c e D

Hunker down with some smoothing jazz at 22˚ North, at 7.30pm. The Tom Nunan Trio is performing with top jazz guitarist, Eugene Pao, who has been playing and promoting jazz in Hong Kong for over 20 years. To book a table, call 2987 2298.

Discovery Bay Golf Club

22˚ North, DB Plaza

December 11 www.22north.com.hk

Parkinson’s CHARITY QUIZ McSorley’s, DB Plaza

For just HK$100 per person, you can enjoy live music, a free standard drink (donated

by McSorley’s) and a small auction, at the Parkinson’s Charity Quiz, organised by 10-year DB resident Carol Keen. Since her mother was diagnosed with the disease nine years ago, Carol has raised over HK$260,000 to support Parkinson’s research in the UK. Quiz teams number between four and six, and kick-off is at 7.30pm. To book a table, call McSorley’s on 2987 8280.

ber 12

Photo courtesy of DBRGS

Decem

December 6

JOIN A BEACH CLEANUP

at Sam Pak Wan, DB North Plaza, co-organised by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, from 1pm to 4pm.

Photo courtesy of Carol Keen

December 7

BUY AND SELL all your lightly used goods at the DB Flea Market in DB Plaza, from noon until 5pm.

SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY CHRISTMAS MARKET

December 14

put on by Handmade Hong Kong, in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm.

December 2014

25

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders

IN&AROUND DB

DENGUE FEVER ALERT! Lindsey Price, a Cheung Sha resident of nine years, has alerted us to the growing prevalence of Dengue Fever, both locally and across Asia; something that is confirmed by Dr Yau Wing Him of Quality HealthCare Medical Centre – Discovery Bay. “Most of these cases are imported by travellers from other South East Asian countries,” says Dr Yau. “But consider that there were 31 reported cases in 2005, compared to 103 in 2013.”

Lindsey’s 10-year old daughter, Lauren tested positive for the mosquito-borne tropical disease in October (in Bali), and the Centre of Health Protection in Hong Kong has confirmed that she could have picked up the disease locally, since her symptoms developed just two days into her holiday. While Lauren has fully recovered from the virus, she is still experiencing fatigue, and aches in her muscles and joints.

Symptoms vary but Dr Yau encourages anyone experiencing a sudden high fever, headaches, and muscle and joint pain (Dengue Fever symptoms) to contact a doctor immediately.

You can look to the Dengue Fever Support Facebook group, set up by Lindsey, for further advice.

Photo courtesy of Lindsey Price

WINTER-BREAK KIDS' CAMPS

hout Throug ber Decem

Throughout DB

The English Schools Foundation (ESF) Winter Sports Camps are open to both ESF and non-ESF students, age two to 11, at Discovery College, December 29 to 31 and January 2 to 3. With the kids divided into three different age groups, the focus is on improving key motor skills through fun, energetic sports. To find out more, visit www.esf.org.hk, or call 2711 1280.

www.esf.org.hk

You can also check out: • HK Dragons Football Club’s Christmas Camps, 2987 4274, www.dragons.hk • Mandarin for Munchkins Christmas Camp, 2480 3909, www.mandarinformunchkins.com • RugBees Christmas Classes, 2117 3055, www.rugbees.hk • Tinytots Soccer Christmas Camps, 3488 7724, www.tinytots.com.hk • Wiseowl’s Christmas Holiday Maths Workshops, 9522 3297, www.wiseowl.com.hk For more information on all these kids’ camps, visit www.arounddb.com.

CONGRATULATIONS DBERS’ HONG KONG GOTHIC Hong Kong Writers Circle

Two DBers have played a part in creating the Hong Kong Writers Circle’s (HKWC) tenth, annual anthology, Hong Kong Gothic, released on December 1. Edited by DB resident Edmund Price, the collection of 22 dark, Hong Kong tales, includes a short story by DBer Miguel Sevilla. To purchase a copy of Hong Kong Gothic, contact books@hkwriterscircle.com.

To win a copy, check the Around DB Facebook page.

26

December 2014

Photo courtesy of Cedric Sum

DB JUDO CHAMPS!

Po Kong Village Road Sports Centre

Photo courtesy of Crystal Lee

November 9 saw three DB kids, all Daruma Judo Club members, shine at the Hong Kong Student Judo Championships. Nitai Delgoshen, nine, was awarded a gold medal, while Daniel Charter and Hugo Marchand, both 10, took home bronze medals. For more on DB-based Daruma, visit the Daruma Sports Facebook page, or email darumasports@gmail.com.

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

and store PetcoDB, Owner of the pet-grooming salon p 21-year DB resident Peter Tse talks sho

List your Lantau business for free @ www.arounddb.com

Tell us a little about your business.

We opened in DB Plaza in 2010. We offer various grooming options for dogs and cats, plus a deep-cleaning MicroBubble Bath, which restores fur condition and moisture.

We use all-natural pet-cleaning products from the US. We also provide a home-like environment, and a one-on-one professional, caring service.

Which well-known businessperson inspires you?

Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer. He clearly has a love for both people and animals and knows exactly how to help both.

What’s the secret of your success?

The fact that caring for animals is my passion – if you look after people’s pets well, word spreads. I also acquired several internationally acknowledged licenses, when I was working for Petco in the US.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced in business?

Dealing with dogs who misbehave! We need to be observant, patient and safety conscious to ensure every dog has a good experience.

Do you have a funny, on-the-job moment to share?

One day, a client brought in a very messy, rescued doggie for grooming. At first, we couldn’t see her face but after one-and-a-half hours, she looked gorgeous! When the owner returned to pick her up, he didn’t recognise his own dog! That’s the best moment for us: turning a scruffy dog into a nice looking one, so that everyone goes home happy.

Tell us three things you enjoy outside work.

I like to relax with my wife Carol and my 23-year-old son, Francis, with or without red wine and saké! I also enjoy team sports, badminton and fishing.

How do you see your business looking in five years’ time?

Photos courte

sy of PetcoDB

We would like to stay in DB. With so many DBers owning pets, we know we will always have a market here.

Call PetcoDB on 2914 0382, email info@petcoDB.com, or visit www.petcodb.com

IN&AROUND DB

FUN AND FESTIVE DECEMBER HAPPENINGS! DBIS CAROLS ON THE PITCH

DB Pirates XMAS PARTY

CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

Discovery Bay International School

Jaspa’s, DB North Plaza

DB Plaza

You can expect performances from Discovery Bay International School students, plus congregational carols at this hugely popular, annual event, which last year attracted some 3,000 people. Head to the pitch from 6pm to enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and hot chocolate; the concert starts at 6.30pm.

To find out more call 2987 7331.

You don’t have to be a DB Pirate to attend the club’s Christmas Party, which starts at 7.30pm. Expect free-flow drinks and nibbles until 11pm, and bring your own hats, baubles and tinsel! To purchase tickets, at HK$150 for members and HK$400 for non-members, visit www.dbpirates.com.

ber 5

ber 7

Decem

mber 2

Dece

Photo by Nancy Paddison

Decem

Photo by Sharon McEneff

Photo courtesy of Nikki Boot

HOLIDAY TREATS

CHANUKAH IN THE PLAZA

Chef’s Choice, DB North Plaza

DB Plaza

For your top Xmas eats, don’t forget the all-new Chef ’s Choice, where you can pick up everything from US-imported turkey and whole gammon hams, to classic chestnut stuffing. Drop by the deli to see the full Christmas list (after December 8), or check the Chef ’s Choice DB Facebook page. Contact 6504 4208, or sami@chefs-choicedb.com.

HAVE YOUR XMAS TURKEY

(and all the trimmings) delivered right to your door by the Discovery Bay Recreation Club (DBRC) or Discovery Bay Golf Club (DBGC). To make an order, call 2987 7381 (DBRC), or 2987 7273 (DBGC).

December 2014

ber 8

Decem

Throughout December

28

DB Mothers & Friends, founded by DB resident Nikki Boot, is collecting canned food, winter clothes and blankets for the less fortunate in Hong Kong this Xmas.

You can drop off items, from 10am to 12pm, in DB Plaza on December 7.

For more information, visit the DB Mothers & Friends Facebook page, or www.2ndhanditem.wordpress.com.

www.wikihow.com

ber 16

Decem

Celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights (Chanukah), from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, with donut decorating, rides, and arts and crafts, plus a spectacular, bubbled-themed circus show by Hong Kong-based comedian, Big Ben. The event’s centrepiece is a 13-foot Chanukiah (nine-branch candelabrum) set up in the centre of DB Plaza. For more information, visit www.jewishlantau.com. www.arounddb.com

NATIVITY IN THE PLAZA DB Plaza See the Christmas story acted out from 4pm to 6pm, by members of DB’s Trinity Chapel Catholic Church, Discovery Bay Church, Church of the Incarnation and Discovery Bay International Community Church.

Donations go to World Vision Hong Kong, to help support those suffering from famine in the Sudan. For more information, call 2987 4210, or 2987 7610.

ber 21

Decem

www.arounddb.com

Help Spread the 9 Dragons Fitness Fever!

Bring in a friend for a free trial in December, and you will receive a lucky draw ticket, for the chance to win a year’s free membership at 9 Dragons Fitness, and a 9 Dragons Prize Pack!

To increase your chances, if your friend signs up for a membership, you will receive one additional lucky draw for every month they sign up for! There’s no limit to how many friends you can bring along, although they must reside in Hong Kong.

And since 9 Dragons is all about community, we have a challenge to extend to you! Our goal is to reach 100 new members by December 31, 2014. If we reach that number, we will reward all referring members with an additional free month of membership!

We will also be giving away amazing prizes to the three people, who introduce the most new members to 9 Dragons! Think Travel Voucher! Shopping Spree!

Rugby 7’s Prize Pack!

Visit www.9dragonsfitness.com for more information on the prizes up for grabs!

• CROSSFIT • 9DFIT • ZUMBA • KIDS PROGRAM • PILATES • YOGA • AERIAL SILK

Join us now!

Seaview Plaza, 8 Tung Chung Waterfront, Lantau, H.K.

www.9dragonsfitness.com Tel: 2786 9699, 9494 7178 Email: train@9dragonsfitness.com

IN&AROUND DB

FUN AND FESTIVE DECEMBER HAPPENINGS! ber 21

The Snowman & THE BEAR

Decem

HAVE A PHOTO TAKEN WITH SANTA and receive a free gift at Club Siena’s fun day, 1pm to 5pm. Call 2987 7382.

Sha Tin and Tuen Mun Town Hall Aussie-born actor and singer, 10-year DB resident Tania Martin is hosting/ narrating a Christmas production of Howard Blake’s The Snowman & The Bear. The screening is accompanied by the City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong and young, guest soloists. Standard tickets start at HK$200 from www.urbtix.hk. Visit www.ccohk.com.

SANTA’S GROTTO Discoveryland, DB North Plaza With Discoveryland transformed into a winter wonderland throughout December, Santa’s elves welcome kids inside, where they can enjoy all the usual activities, including trampolines, air trek, slides, minigolf and rock climbing. Once inside, entry to Santa’s Grotto is just HK$80, and children get a gift, plus a photo with Santa. You can also book your Discoveryland Christmas party by calling 2441 0098. Visit www.discoverylandhk.com.

7

er 21-2

b Decem

www.discoverylandhk.com

6 & 28

December 2

http://forum.blu-ray.com

THE RED LANTERN

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

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

Check out our website for enrolment information

Where Inquiry Begins

New! Tung Chung at The Visionary Tel: 3969 1066 Email: kinder@tc.esf.org.hk

Start your child’s learning journey with ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung

opening for the 2015/2016 School Year

Our purpose-built, spacious kindergarten will provide the perfect environment for young learners. As the largest of the ESF Kindergartens, our space is being carefully planned to provide places of beauty that will support learning, stimulate imaginations, nurture children, families and staff, and truly inspire the wonderful memories of childhood.

Our other Kindergartens: Abacus at Clearwater Bay an IB World School

With well-resourced classrooms, great access to current learning technologies and indoor and outdoor play areas, young children will be presented with multiple opportunities to learn, socialise and develop their skills. Through inquiry-based learning and play, we encourage children’s natural curiosity and creativity, develop their personal and social skills, inspire them with a life-long love of learning and the confidence to fulfil their potential.

To find out more about ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung please give us a call or send an email to kinder@tc.esf.org.hk.

Tel: 2719 5712 Hillside on Stubbs Road an IB World School

Tel: 2540 0066 Tsing Yi

an IB World School

Tel: 2436 3355 Wu Kai Sha

an IB World School

Tel: 2435 5291

www.esfkindergartens.org.hk Around DB - Half Page - Tung Chung - OCTOBER.indd 1

24/10/2014 16:15

SEE WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS LANTAU!

Photos by Claus Rolf and Isaac Wong

SALOMON LT 70

be r Novem

1

Lantau Trail

There were 290 finishers in Lantau Base Camp’s 70-kilometre Salomon LT 70 trail race, 28 of whom were Lantau residents. Among them were Pui O residents, Valerie Lagarde, the second female solo finisher, and Matthew Moroz, of Anders & Matt, the winning team in the Relay of 2. For the full list of results, visit www.racematix.com.

SALOMON LT 70 Lantau Trail There were 290 finishers in Lantau Base Camp’s 70-kilometre Salomon LT 70 trail race, 28 of whom were Lantau residents.

Among them were Pui O residents, Valerie Lagarde, the second female solo finisher, and Matthew Moroz, of Anders & Matt, the winning team in the Relay of 2. For the full list of results, visit www.racematix.com.

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

ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS FOR YOU TO ENJOY!

ACROSS LANTAU

www.marriott.com

CARNIVAL CHRISTMAS!

De

ua r r 1-Jan ce m b e

y1

Find more information and events @ www.arounddb.com

Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott, Tung Chung Over the holidays at Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott hotel, game booths are on offer during lunch and dinner hours, and kids can take part in a Hunt the Golden Santa Competition. You can expect carolling at 6pm on December 24, and in addition to the Christmas and New Year buffets, afternoon tea is served with mince pies, eggnog and mulled wine. To make a booking, call 3969 1888, or visit www.skycitymarriott.com.

MSIG LANTAU RACING!

December 5, 6-7

Start: Shui Hau Wan and Tung Chung Action Asia’s MSIG Lantau VK, starting at 5pm on December 5, sees runners race a short, but steep 5-kilometre course up Lantau Peak. Some see this as a warm-up for the MSIG Lantau 50 – HK 50 Series, which opens with an 88-kilometre race, at midnight on December 6. The 13-, 25- and 50-kilometre races all start on the morning of December 7. Visit www.actionasiaevents.com.

www.actionasiaevents.com

MANSAROVER BRANCHES OUT Tung Chung and Tsuen Wan

Known for its ‘curry to die for’, Mansarover in Tung Chung is celebrating the opening of its Tsuen Wan branch, Baba’s Station.

Lovers of Chef Kumar Raj’s incredible North Indian cuisine will be excited to learn that he is introducing a number of Middle Eastern dishes this month.

Mansarover can deliver anywhere in Tung Chung and South Lantau, and to the DB Tunnel. You can also call 2109 1927 for a lift to the restaurant from Tung Chung MTR!

FUN AT THE XMAS FAIRS

LIS, Tong Fuk Campus and YHKCC, Tung Chung There’s fun to be had for all the family at the Lantau International School (LIS) Fair, from 11am to 4pm on December 6, and at the YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) International Fun Fair, from 11am to 9pm on December 13. For LIS, visit www.lis.edu.hk; for YHKCC, visit www.ymcacc.edu.hk.

13 be r 6 & D ec e m

Photo courtesy of Mansarover

r Februa

y 14

REGISTER FROM DECEMBER 15 FOR THE RAIDLIGHT LBC 14 VALENTINE’S DAY

Photo courtesy of YHKCC

34

December 2014

race on February 14! Visit http://events.lantaubasecamp.com.

OFFICE 3483 5003

www.homesolutions.hk

Sharon Riley Kelly Merrick Angie Lindsay

9664 4749 9331 8141 6175 0155

(S-415474) (S-365384) (S-472175)

NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG

7.8M PUI O VILLAGE HOUSE 1800’ + 600” Rooftop

Modern home with stunning views. 3 Beds and 3 Baths (inc 1 ensuite). Open kitchen/living area with breakfast bar and lots of storage. Master bedroom with built in wardrobes and stylish ensuite. Partially covered trellised rooftop perfect for relaxing and admiring views.

12.8M/30K HAM TIN VILLAGE HOUSE 1400’ + 700’ Rooftop + Garden

Recently decorated contemporary home! 3 Beds & 3 Baths (inc 2 ensuites). Western style kitchen w/ open plan living area leading out to fenced/grassed garden. Stylish lighting, ceiling fans &11ft high ceilings! Walk in wardrobes in 2 bedrooms. Laundry room on decked rooftop.

7.6M VILLA IN CHEUNG SHA 787’ Net + Rooftop

Lovely villa in desirable complex & area! 2 Bed, 1.5 Bath. Large open plan kitchen/living area. Kitchen with stove top, oven, fridge and washing machine. Study area on 1/F next to 2 bedrooms. Rooftop w/ sea views. Beach house perfect for small family, couple or investment!

15.5K 2/F HAM TAM VILLAGE HOUSE 700’ + 700’ Rooftop

Lovely 2/F flat in the heart of Ham Tin. 2 Beds, 1 Bath. Large living/dining area with direct access onto balcony. Separate kitchen with fridge and microwave. Bedrooms with built in wardrobes. Great rooftop with stunning views. Won’t be on the market long!

12K G/F MUI WO VILLAGE HOUSE 700’ + Terrace

Making you feel at home is our business

Easily accessible ground floor flat. 2 Beds, 2 Baths (inc 1 ensuite).

Comes fully furnished! Large living area with direct access to terrace.

Separate kitchen with fridge freezer.

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

C-044849

Mothers en Vogue giveaway!

COMPETITIONS

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions right here). You have until December 10 to submit your answers.

Mothers en Vogue (MEV), the To enter, email info@arounddb.com, Singaporean specialist in lifestyle click on the competitions link fashion for nursing, maternity and at www.arounddb.com, or scan the babies, opened in Central in May QR Code below. Don’t forget to give us your name and 2013. While the clothing is made from telephone number! soft, natural and eco-friendly fabrics, the

nursing wear is cleverly designed with discreet breastfeeding access. To find out more, call the store on 2866 7171, or visit the Mothers en Vogue Hong Kong Facebook page.

www.tallstories.org.uk

Catch The Gruffalo!

Who wrote the book The Gruffalo?

www.facebook.com/mothersenvogueHongKong

Kicking off Kidsfest 2015, The Gruffalo, the stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning book, is showing at the Drama Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai, from January 15 to 18. Join Mouse on a journey through the deep dark wood, as he scares away hungry animals with stories of the terrifying Gruffalo.

Standard tickets, starting at HK$195, are available at www.hkticketing.com.

MEV is offering three readers the chance to win a Sangha Waterfall Wrap, a versatile light-weight cardigan which doubles as a nursing cover (worth HK$478 each).

ABA Productions is offering three readers a pair of A-Reserve tickets (worth HK$435 per ticket) to see the show on January 15 at 5pm.

In which country did MEV originate?

Attend First Code Academy!

Providing opportunities for students to learn software development through mentorship and hands-on instruction, Wanchai-based First Code Academy is hosting a Coding Camp this month. With class sizes ranging from four to eight students, the workshops introduce students of different age groups (Tinker, six to eight years; Explore, nine to 11 years; and Create, 12 to 15 years) to fundamental computing concepts. For more information, visit www.firstcodeacademy.com.

First Code Academy is offering three readers a day pass to any Coding Camp workshop (worth between HK$550 and HK$890 per pass, depending on the workshop).

Where is First Code Academy based?

www.firstcodeacademy.com

Congratulations to last month’s winners Melanie Aldridge, Rin Hayakawa and Catherine Chan

for A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Julie Mexted, Stine Bilidt and Sue Wong for Puss in Boots: The Panto; Marie Pelard and Sandra Wyatt for Ester & Erik candles; Gigi Fung, Cherry Lee, Michelle Yeung, Lui Wai Man, Angie Onwuka, Kimmy Lam, Sally Leung, Aisling O’Connor, Sarah Muirhead and Eileen Cummins for Discovery Bay Sweetwalk; Maxson Tsang and Mari Ferlic for SEUSSICAL The Musical; and Sushil Jadhwani and Micheline Stockton for Scotty & Lulu.

December 2014

37

PROFILE

Photos by Terry Chow

LUST FOR LIFE

38

For DB medical-insurance professional Marc Menard, whose road to success has been paved by hazard (and an illuminating dance with death), there are no accidents, only life lessons.

Elizabeth Kerr reports Marc Menard and his love, Lea De Lara dancing in Discovery Bay

December 2014

PROFILE

S

pirituality, to make a sweeping generalisation, is not something one immediately associates with the French. Existentialism, yes, but not spirituality. Then again, Marc Menard, 31, is not your average Frenchman. Or your average insurance-industry professional, or transplanted DBer for that matter.

Born in Lille and raised in the southwest of France, Marc moved to Hong Kong in 2008, at the height of the global financial collapse. Within months he got hit with salmonella poisoning and later, oddly, typhoid. His healthinsurance company played hardball on his claims. He was scammed by a fake cabbie and a money-grabbing landlord, and then suffered a near fatal heart attack in 2010, age 27. All in all, life here got off to a pretty bad start.

Now with Swiss Insurance Partners, Marc’s put all that experience and knowledge into the appropriately titled, self-help book, All For a Purpose.

“I’m convinced that this book will inspire anybody for whom difficulties in life obstruct their ability to progress, achieve fulfilment and realise their true inner potential,” he says. “All situations have a meaning and happen for a reason. We create them through our choices and actions.”

Spiritual awakening Born to a military lifer father and a painter mother – something he notes brought a balance of logic and spirit to the house – Marc says he never imagined making his life in Hong Kong. “Asia was totally off the radar for me,” he says. “But I needed it.” A shy kid, who was frequently told all the things he couldn’t do, the relocation to Hong Kong, initially to complete his MBA, was a rung on a long ladder of proving to others, but primarily to himself, he could do what he chose.

“These six years have been like 20 in real experience,” he says. “I’ve learned so much about myself, what I can do,

where I want to go and my vision. I don’t know the path yet, but I know the destination.”

Marc’s interest in all things spiritual, universal, or whatever label you prefer, started in his student days, and was brought to fruition by his dance with death in a Thai hospital in 2010.

Recalling this near-death experience, he says: “I had the sensation that I was speeding up into the sky, at the speed of light, then everything stopped. I had no sense of fear, neither of love. Out of the darkness, I found myself looking into a circle of very bright light. At that moment I knew exactly where I was. I heard a voice telling me to come closer but I realised that if I followed I would never be able to get back.

“I closed my eyes again and started to focus on my physical body,” Marc continues. “I remember concentrating for just a few seconds, during which time I could see myself lying on the hospital bed. Moments later I was back in my body. When I woke up, I knew everything would go well.”

All for a purpose Marc’s spiritual awakening has, he says, helped him make sense of his life, and even of his early, nightmarish years in Hong Kong. After leaving and coming back twice, he has finally settled down and committed to living by his own mantra. “I chose to come here. I chose to have an experience.

I accept that everything happens for a reason,” he says. “Hong Kong has a very powerful energy. But it’s about how you manage it. Yes, it’s very ‘money money,’ but it’s also very spiritual. Everything is very positive.”

Marc also sees Hong Kong as an incredible platform for creativity – he’s rarely confronted negativity or disbelief about his ideas or plans, and he appreciates the city’s overall give-ita-go attitude.

Interestingly enough, it was Marc’s heart attack that brought him to DB.

“I needed to find a peaceful place to relax my mind and also reconnect with nature and myself,” he says. “DB is the perfect place, as I can play tennis after work and hike at the weekend with friends. I also value the ferry ride as a chance to relax after work; we residents can take those 25 minutes for ourselves.”

Marc now shares his home with the lovely Lea De Lara, a Filipina realtor.

The couple met in Hong Kong two years ago and divide their time between Manila and DB. “We share the same passion for dancing, developing our own businesses and discovering the world,” Marc says.

Beyond religion Marc is the first to admit that once the subject of his writing, or the concept of spirituality comes up, the assumption is that he’s one of two things: a crystal-gazing, quinoaeating flake, or a religious fanatic.

“But for me it goes beyond religion,” he says. “I know there’s something out there, that’s very powerful and full of energy and we are part of it. You can call it god, the universe, whatever, but you can’t define it. For me, spirituality comes when we start to become aware of this huge energy, which is within and around us, and start to ask questions. Without questions, it’s hard to get answers.”

Marc’s not intolerant of organised religion; he just sees any dogma as a constraint. “Spirituality is about contact, and it comes from the inside,” he suggests.

To Marc, who teaches salsa when he has the time, spiritual pursuits are about connectivity – to the earth, to each other, to oneself. A long, rambling conversation with him can swing back and forth between subjects as diverse as corporate responsibility, food waste, and wealth for wealth’s sake, without ever getting preachy. And he gets the irony of his job within the system he gently rails against.

December 2014



39

PROFILE

“Yes, that’s why I wrote the book as well,” he says with a laugh. “If I were an artist and I talked about spirituality and so on people would think, ‘Well, he’s an artist’. As it is, I’m trying to spread my message from within.

“In the world we’re in, everything is led by big corporations,” Marc adds.

“And right now it’s all about profit, profit, profit – to no purpose. Yes, we need to make money but if we spread a part of our profits to help humanity, we’d get balance. You’d be surprised how many people (lawyers, pilots, finance guys) think like this but don’t act on it, because they’re afraid of how it would look.”

Marc is all too aware that with his book, he’s become one of dozens of ‘self-help’ type authors claiming to have the answers we all need to lead better, more fulfilled lives. He thinks of All For a Purpose as a memoir, since it’s based on his life, and he has no desire to push it on readers who aren’t open to the message. He also doesn’t have any illusions to being anything more than one person looking to help and inspire others.

“I’m a businessman talking about challenges and spirituality, and I want to link spirituality, action and business,” he says.

“I think I’m a good communicator. I love to listen to other people’s stories.

Marc checking out All for a Purpose online

And I really want to help others the way I helped myself,” Marc concludes, pausing for perhaps an existential moment. “I want to show people that this world is amazing once we start to realise who we are.”

Find more local heroes

Find it

• All For a Purpose is available on Amazon Kindle, www.amazon.com, and at www.allforapurpose.com

@ www.arounddb.com

All of our programmes are open to both ESF & Non ESF students

ESF WINTER SPORTS AND CLINICS CAMPS 29 – 31 December 2014 & 2 – 3 January 2015 9am - 12pm

AT DISCOVERY COLLEGE

Join us for our high-energy, fun-filled Winter Sports Camps. Move your body, play games, make friends, swim, laugh and have fun during the Winter school holiday. Our activities focus on improving gross motor skills and enhancing fundamental abilities in sport. Camps are available for children ages 3 - 11.

LOCATIONS: Australian International School HK Discovery College

Tennis and Gymnastics Clinics also available.

Check online for details.

Basketball Clinics ESF Basketball will be running a series of non-residential clinics which will focus on developing and improving both individual and team skills for players at all levels of the game. The U-10 and U-12 Clinics will have three days skill training and games on the last two days. For the older age group, U-16, it will be a concept of an Open Gym for games, and that can be half court of full court.

Check online for locations and details.

Football Camp ESF Football will run football camp from 9am-12pm at the incredible KGV artificial pitch in Kowloon. Players will take part in expert skills sessions, as well as mini games and tournaments.

2

YEARS

Around DB - Half Page - WINTER CAMP.indd 1

Kowloon Junior School (Dry Camp) Renaissance College South Island School

www.esf.org.hk sports@esf.org.hk Tel

2711 1280

14/11/2014 15:31

IN FOCUS

PUTTING FOOD ON

PLATES

Photos by Terry Chow, and courtesy of Cecilie Gamst Berg, Gillian Thompson and Olena Smith

In an era of fast food and pre-packaged meals, many of us are gourmand by nature, dilettante in scope. Karmel Schreyer finds five ladies committed to developing their culinary sensibilities, by mixing business with pleasure

42

From left to right: Angela Sayell, Cecilie Gamst Berg, Oksana Shevchuk and Olena Smith, and Gillian Thompson

December 2014

IN FOCUS

M

y working title for this article was ‘ladies who lunch’ but I had to have a rethink after meeting Angela Sayell, Cecilie Gamst Berg, Gillian Thompson, Olena Smith and Oksana Shevchuk. Certainly all these ladies are lunch (and dinner) providers but, as dedicated entrepreneurs, who really put the hours in, they are about as far from the idle ‘ladies who lunch’ stereotype as you can imagine.

While Angela, Gillian, Olena and Oksana say they look back fondly on a former life when they did have time for long, leisurely lunches with pals, Cecilie puts me smartly right. “Am I a woman who eats lunch? Yes. Am I a woman who’s dependent on a man and doesn’t work for a living? No. I’ve been working since I was 16. Fourteen, if you include the paper round.”

Sichuan private kitchen Cecilie Gamst Berg came from Norway to Hong Kong by train via the mainland over 25 years ago. Ecoguerrilla filmmaker, South China Morning Post journalist, Cantonese teacher, she has a sideline dear to her heart – a private kitchen. Here she brings together lucky diners for helpings of signature Sichuan cuisine and good conversation – a sort of Babette’s Feast on the rooftop of her Pui O pied-à-terre.

“My business is actually to make Cantonese a world language and I’ve been doing that since 1996,” Cecilie, a Lantau resident of 24 years, explains.

“However, after spending a month in Sichuan province in 2002 as a volunteer English teacher, I realised that Hong Kong chefs don’t know how to cook Sichuan food, so I’d have to do it myself! For example, everybody’s favourite dish, Fish Fragrant Aubergines, a riotous mix of spicy, sweet, sour and salty, is in Hong Kong ludicrously served with tiny salty fish and without spicy bean sauce. It’s just called ‘fish fragrant’ because its sauce is normally poured over fish.”

Cecilie has a repertoire of 15 or so dishes that she can do in her sleep, using whatever is available at the market in Mui Wo. She has also recently started providing a do-ityourself Sichuan cooking kit, with all the key ingredients. You can order the Sichuan CooKIT online, along with an e-book recipe and film clips showing how to do it.

Cecilie’s private kitchen, which she opened back in 2004, will stay ‘small potatoes’ though. “Cooking is fun but I wouldn’t like to cook for 10 people every day,” she says. “Sichuan food is precision cooking; one second too long in the wok can turn Wonderful into Crap. That’s why I don’t like people sauntering into the kitchen and putting their arms around me while I cook.”

And what about the business end? “I like to entertain large parties and make them happy,” Cecilie says.

“If when they leave they also leave money, it’s not my fault.”

Homemade British bounty You may already know Britishborn Angela Sayell and her popular Pantry Providore stall at the Handmade Hong Kong markets in DB. “I’ve always been involved and interested in food,” says the 20+-year Hong Kong resident. “It was moving to Park Island four years ago, plus the relocation of friends back to their home countries, that stirred me into establishing Pantry Providore.

“At my first DB market in 2012, I only produced two jams, a lemon curd and one pickle. Now, I produce five to six jams/ marmalades and curds, plus five to six pickles, chutneys and fruit pastes. I also do one patisserie item.”

The work is time consuming, but it is a labour of love. “I’m totally absorbed when in the kitchen, and it is hugely 

Cecilie’s Crispy and Numbing Potato Strips are a client favourite

December 2014

43

IN FOCUS

satisfying to see my produce in jars, labelled,” Angela says. She loves spotting new culinary trends and introducing new items, plus a regular ‘flavour of the month’. Two signature items always sell out: Lemon Curd and Bread & Butter Pickle. “The great thing about these little hotties is that ingredients are always available, so the quality remains consistent,” she says.

Not surprisingly, Angela, who has been involved in the food-andbeverage/ hotel industry for most of her working life, is looking to extend her reach. “I would love to expand, but the cost to rent/ kit out a purpose-built production kitchen is prohibitive,” she says. “I currently hand produce very small batches of seasonal, high-quality pickles and preserves; to justify such a large investment, production/ sales opportunities would have to increase.

“At the end of the day, there’s only so much you can charge for a pot of jam, no matter how great it is. It’s a dilemma. It would be wonderful if I could find another likeminded producer to share a larger production space.”

Online Eastern European grocery Two Ukrainian-born sisters, Tung Chung residents for almost 10 years, Olena Smith and Oksana Shevchuk have lifted the curtain on Eastern European cuisine here in Hong Kong.

They founded Xytorok (pronounced ‘Khutorok’) in 2012 with a mission to provide the Eastern European community in Hong Kong with the foods they had been pining for since moving to Asia, and offer something new and exotic to locals.

Says Olena, “Cooking is an art in many households across the Ukraine in which parents, grandparents and youngsters cook together in the kitchen, sharing family recipes

and secrets passed down from one generation to the next. Food is one of the ways we show our love to the family and others. Our family philosophy is ‘everyone eats, everyone cooks’.”

Operating out of a warehouse in Tsing Yi, Xytorok stocks over 300 products, such as caviar, herring, curd cheese, homemade pierogi (dumplings), sausages, pickles, buckwheat and vodka. It is billed as an ‘online grocery’ but walk-ins are welcome. They cater all types of events, from corporate venues, reunions, anniversaries and birthdays, to cocktail parties.

“The decision to open Xytorok has changed our lives and pushed us into a highly successful entrepreneurial journey,” says Olena. The sisters, both former bankers, don’t miss that world, either. “Our mission is to deliver a taste of home away from home. Let people discover our culture through food.”

Importing UK flavours For Gillian Thompson, a three-year DB resident, starting a food-importing business was also a family affair.

“In 2007, when we moved to Hong Kong, my brother bought a jam factory in York, in the UK,” she explains. “Shortly after the birth of my fourth child, he launched his first home label of jams and chutneys called York Preserves. I hadn’t worked since the birth of my first [baby] and I felt it was time to start something for myself. I wanted the flexibility that only working for yourself offers. So I

December 2014

Gillian got her business into gear by approaching three local supermarket chains in late 2009; she was soon contacted by the Dairy Farm Group’s head buyer. The brands York Preserves and The Mercers of Yorkshire now sell in Oliver’s, ThreeSixty, Market Place by Jasons and the DB North Plaza Wellcome. You can also find them at a few independent retailers in Mui Wo, including the Loi Chan Frozen Meat Company.

Last year Gillian, who is the administrator of the DB Mums Facebook page, added Godminster Cheddar to her list of wares. “I only sell this cheese to private customers and I usually only bring it in when I have a Handmade Hong Kong market in DB, where it sells out in a day,” she says. “For one delivery, I had no market stall to sell at, yet the cheese still sold out within six days.”

So far, the gig hasn’t become boring, and neither has the food. “I am always on the lookout for new products to add to my portfolio,” Gillian says.

“My favourites are the chutneys and cheese. They are great for easy dinners and dinner-party gifts. My best sellers are the Sweet Chilli Jam, Caramelised Onion Chutney, Salted Caramel Sauce and Lemon Cheese.”

Noting how much the UK’s reputation for food has improved in recent years, Gillian says, “We are an adventurous, open-minded and creative nation and our food industry is evolving in a positive direction. I love being part of that in some way.”

Find it • Cecilie Gamst Berg, www.happyjellyfish.com • GMT Foods Facebook page, www.yorkpreserves.com • Pantry Providore, pantryprovidore@gmail.com • Xytorok, www.xytorok.com.hk

Find more topical local topics

44

founded GMT Foods.”

@ www.arounddb.com

OZZIE COZZIE CHRISTMAS NE W ARRI

I VA L S R R I VA L VA L S N E S NEW A W ARR

503 Tak Woo House, 1-3 Wo On Lane, Lan Kwai Fong, Central

2810 1356 www.ozziecozzieco.com

IMI is a trusted natural medicine and wellness clinic. Our experienced and caring practitioners specialise in: • Strengthening immunity • Digestion and nutrition • Allergies, asthma and eczema • Stress, anxiety and insomnia • Women’s health

OPENING HOURS:

Monday to Friday 9am -7pm Saturday & Sunday 10am -7pm

Professional nail services in a relaxing environment, conveniently located in the Plaza.

Call us for an appointment

2987 2266

• Children’s learning and behaviour • Naturopathic detox and weight loss • Sports therapy, back and joint pain • Family and relationship counselling Call 2537 1087 now for more information.

Web: www.imi.com.hk Phone: 2537 1087 Location: G-02, Office Block Two, North Plaza

TALKING POINTS

Rehearsing Puss in Boots: The Panto; Matthew Collingwood, Jane Archibald and Gemma Brain, front row

PANTOMIME KIDS! In the lead up to panto season, Hannah Ball finds out why so many children choose to get involved, and what it’s like to work with them on stage

Photos courtesy of Hong Kong Players and Gemma Brain

I

46

t was the American comedian W.C. Fields who coined the phrase, ‘Never work with children or animals’, and when it comes to the stage, it’s pretty clear he has a point. Children are unpredictable and you can’t always be sure they’ll do what you want them to do, which can spell disaster for a company performing in front of a large audience.

But there’s also a lot to be said for employing child actors – especially when it comes to a family-oriented pantomime, which has kids at its very core.

Principal boys and girls Someone who’s worked with hundreds of kids on stage over the December 2014

years (including many from DB) is Teri Fitsell. Co-producer of the Hong Kong Players’ December offering, Puss in Boots: The Panto, this is the eighth pantomime Teri has co-written with children in mind.

Players’ pantomimes for the past six years. This month, she makes her Hong Kong Players’ debut as one of the 12-strong ensemble in Puss in Boots. What’s more, opening night, December 5, is her 11th birthday!

“Children play such a major role in pantomime because they form a connection with the kids in the audience,” Teri explains. “Kids love seeing people of their own age on stage because it makes them think ‘maybe I could do that’. In fact, many of the youngsters who audition for our productions are those who have grown up watching our pantomimes.”

Despite being the youngest member of the cast (and having only one line), Gemma knows she has a vital role to play. “I’m in a lot of scenes, singing the songs and dancing alongside lead roles,” she says. “Most of the time, I feel the same age as the people I’m on stage with; we’ve become one large group of friends who support each other on and off stage.”

This is certainly the case for 10-yearold, DB resident Gemma Brain, who has been a fan of the Hong Kong

While Gemma is the only child from DB with a part in Puss in Boots, five DB kids, were involved in Hong Kong

TALKING POINTS

Sleeping Beauty: The Panto 2013; Aria Kalmar, middle row, fifth from right

Players’ 2013 production of Sleeping Beauty: The Panto. Aria Kalmar, 13, who had a part in the chorus, says she gained a lot from the experience, and loved the adrenaline rush it gave her.

“My favourite part about pantomime is that you can be put on the spot; at any moment, someone in the audience can yell out something and you have to reply with your own sense of humour,” Aria says, adding that performing on stage has given her bucket loads of confidence.

For Tania, it’s all about starting small.

“Parts in the chorus or ensemble act are a perfect taster for children new to the stage,” she says. “In fact, you usually find that it gives those who want to pursue acting, a real fire in their bellies to gain a bigger role for next time.”

A participatory form of theatre Performing alongside Pantomime Dames (and divas) can do a lot for children, but here Aussie-born actor, singer and mother of two, Tania Martin, a DB resident of 10 years, has a word of caution.

She emphasises that kids should only be on stage if the production is a child-centred one, and the cast and crew are supportive.

“I’ve seen a fair number of children who get pushed into being on stage, in the hope that it will increase their confidence, but so often it can have the opposite effect,” she warns. “When directors get demanding and parents pushy, it shatters the child’s confidence and puts them off ever being on stage again.”

Find more child-centric stories

As to what it’s like working with child actors, Matthew Collingwood, a 16year DB resident, who plays the Dame in Puss in Boots, has this to say: “The worst thing about working with kids is that they are extremely noisy, fidgety, hyper and excitable, which tends to lead to a lot of “Quiet Please!” from the director, and can start to hurt the ears after a while! But kids bring great energy to the shows, and secretly we all enjoy being silly right along with them. They seem to take it all in their stride, leaving it up to the adults to handle the nervousness of performing.”

Teri concurs, saying, “When children arrive at that first rehearsal, it can be a bit like herding cats, but by the time opening night comes, their confidence has grown, and they’re a skilled and dedicated team.”

Find it

Ten-year-old, DBer Gemma all set to make her Hong Kong Players’ debut

• Puss in Boots: The Panto runs December 5 to 7 and 11 to 14 at the Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wanchai. Find out more at www.hongkongplayers.com • For tickets, starting at HK$250, visit www.urbtix.hk, or call 2111 5999

@ www.arounddb.com

December 2014

47

FAMILY MATTERS

Jake and Yvey Mexted

FUN AND GAMES When you select gifts for kids this Xmas, consider that creative and educational toys are their tools for learning. Kate Whitehead reports

Photos by Baljit Gidwani

P 50

lay is a huge and important part of children’s lives. The time spent playing dressup and dominoes, or trying to crack a puzzle or sing a song is valuable not just because the little ones are having fun, but because all these activities provide opportunities for learning.

Learning through play

Through play, children learn about themselves, their environment and the people around them. They also develop social, physical, emotional and intellectual skills.

“When children play with puppets and role play, they are improving their literary and speaking skills, it brings out divergent thinking,” says Pat, whose book Tips and Tidbits for

December 2014

Canadian Pat Kozyra spent 50 years in the classroom teaching young children – 13 of those years in Hong Kong – and says the value of play cannot be underestimated, whether it’s playing a classic board game or doing something more creative.

Parents and Teachers: Celebrating 50 Years in the Classroom and Sharing What I Have Learned was published in January 2014.

Pat, a mother of two, is a fan of traditional board games and even dedicates a whole chapter of her book to the value of playing with a ball, which she says not only develops hand-eye coordination and motor skills, but self-confidence and problem solving, too. Another classic, jigsaw puzzles, also get a special mention.

FAMILY MATTERS

“As they progress from a 12-piece to a 24-piece puzzle, you can almost tell the kids’ IQ,” Pat quips, explaining that each child has their own way of solving a puzzle, whether they work from the large picture to the smaller one or search for shapes or colour.

Discovery Bay family, the Mexteds enjoy doing the occasional large-scale jigsaw puzzle as a joint project. “We just did a 1,000-piece puzzle. We’d sit down every now and again and work on it; everyone got involved, even our youngest – it’s a good thing to do as a family,” says Julie Mexted, mother of Maddie, 10, Isabelle, 9, Yvey, 7 and Jake, 6.

The Destexhes: Emma, Lucie, Julie, mum Fiona, Charles and Rebecca

“The kids are at the age where they can do lots of interesting things with us. Playing together definitely brings a family closer together,” says Julie, an Australian who has lived in Discovery Bay since 1999.

Of course, as children mature, play needs to increase in complexity.

Strategy games can fascinate; toys that permit science experimentation or creative thinking expand children’s imagination and often tie play learning to school learning.

Gender stereotypes Age six, Julie’s son’s favourite toy is Lego; he even has a dedicated Lego table in his bedroom. “Boys love putting things together and taking them apart,” notes Julie. “Lego really engages Jake – it’s using his imagination to build different things and good for special awareness and orientation.”

While Julie’s older children preferred dolls to Lego when they were young, Pat says she was very pleased when the Danish toymaker began introducing Lego for girls.

It’s important that learning expands beyond gender-stereotyped toys. For example, boys, like Jake, are attracted to all kinds of building play, but it’s

Isabelle and Maddie Mexted

ing

d family bond

Social skills an

It’s difficult for kids to learn to take turns and play by the rules. They shouldn’t be allowed to win all the time, or they won’t learn important lessons about competition. If the game involves skill, they need to know how and why they’ve been given an advantage. It’s also simple enough to balance the loser’s disappointment by having him pick the next game.

It’s easy to make conversation over a game board, or when building structures or models together. Confidence in each other and bonding and togetherness flourish as family members win, lose, negotiate, create ideas and formulate game plans. It’s reasonable to believe that a family that plays together, stays together.

Source: www.sylviarimm.com/article_play.htm

December 2014



51

FAMILY MATTERS

Lucie and Rebecca Destexhe

worth encouraging such play for girls as well. Blocks enhance children’s spatial skills, which, in turn, can have a potential effect on their math.

Six-year Discovery Bay resident Fiona Destexhe has five children – Emma, 15, Julie, 13, Lucie, 10, Rebecca, 10 and Charles, two. She recalls the girls spending hours playing together: “We had a lot of dress up at home – Disney princesses – and playing with dolls. I think they are more imaginative and creative now because of all that time they spent playing together.”

Role playing (and arts and crafts) needs to be especially encouraged for boys, who aren’t as easily engaged in these tasks. It makes sense to encourage all children to express themselves in the arts for enjoyment and creative expression, and also for improved hand-eye coordination.

Computers in moderation For Fiona, as with so many mums, one of the challenges of parenthood

52

December 2014

is trying to keep kids back from all the screen time. “We did a lot more playing when I was a child than I see children doing now. I see children sitting with an iPad on the ferry,” she says, “and a lot of the homework that they have to do is computer based.”

while, Scots-born Fiona says she limits their usage at home and has a blanket ban on phones at the dinner table. Each of the children is allowed just 30 minutes a day and for the older kids, much of that half hour is spent doing homework online.

Admitting that computers can be useful to keep kids quiet for a short

Pat, who recently retired from teaching, has seen the world of play change

d Types of toys an

skills learned

• Arts and crafts: creativity, muscle coordination, spatial skills • Books: imagination, verbal and attention skills • Dominoes, puzzles and blocks: imagination, spatial skills, organisation, planning, number concepts • Letter and number cards and board games: pre-reading, cooperative and competitive skills, math • Music, nursery rhymes and board games: spatial, pre-reading and listening skills, muscle coordination • Puppets, dolls, dress-up: imagination, role play, expressiveness Source: www.sylviarimm.com/article_play.htm



Ad_190x132.5cm-print.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

19/11/14

10:03 am

FAMILY MATTERS

dramatically over her five decades in the classroom. Although she can see the advantages of technology and some computer-assisted learning, she is still concerned.

“The preponderance of electronic gadgets without parental monitoring is worrisome. It leads to a lessoning of real social interaction among their peers,” Pat says. “People also worry about what too much computer use does to kids’ vision, and about carpal tunnel syndrome, a painful condition, which occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist.”

Many pre-schoolers learn basic math and reading skills on the computer.

They also become comfortable with technology. But children should be learning how to interact socially, and interaction with the computer doesn’t provide practice for talking or playing with friends. Other children don’t respond as computers do, so for learning social skills, children simply require other children.

Active involvement What both Discovery Bay families have always understood, and something that Pat supports wholeheartedly, is the value of a bedtime story and having books in the house. “It’s modelling – parents have to show that they value books,” Pat says. “Books are something that can be discussed at the dinner table instead of asking your child, ‘What did

Find more child-centric stories

you do today?’ and they say, ‘Nothing’.”

“Reading at bedtime is going into their wee fantasy world, it’s very visual,” Fiona says.

For all the positives, Pat adds a word of caution for parents, who get worried that their children are slow to join in with other kids and play. She says that children, who stand on the sidelines, playing the onlooker, are mentally preparing to play.

“They might be intimidated and shy. Being the onlooker, they have the opportunity to manipulate their cognitive experience,” she says. “We should allow these children more time to watch and learn and not be so anxious to push full social interaction.”

@ www.arounddb.com

Hong Kong’s largest indoor family entertainmen t centre.

Welcome to Discoveryland

Your world to discover!

NEW! Classes... for all ages!

Kindermusik, Hiphop, Baby Jazz, Musical Theatre, Cheermastics, Zumba adults/Mum & Me

L AND    

ALSO Rugbees & Jungle Adventurer

Featuring Asia’s largest indoor slides Games & activities for all ages from babies to YOU! 14,000 square feet of pure exhilarating fun...

Discover your world of endless epic adventures!

SIGNUP for any of our 30 min FREE TRIAL classes!

FREE

00:30

Xmas promo... All thru December

Special Santa's Grotto!

Happy Hour - Only $80!

Mon to Fri 11.30am to 1.30pm Noon time - Come and play!

10% off school bookings!

Book your official end of school term party and save 10% - valid till Nov 30th.

Height restrictions apply.

A shoe free, sock only environment!

Enquire NOW... for annual/monthly/daily passes, corporate events & birthday party packages!

Call: +852 2441 0098 | Email: info@discoverylandhk.com | www.discoverylandhk.com

DANCE YOUR WAY INTO 2015!

Come along for a FREE trial class at our venues in DB • DBRC - Creative Dance, Disco Freestyle, Hip Hop & Tap • Club Siena - RAD Graded Ballet & Contemporary NOW ACCEPTING ENROLMENTS FOR JANUARY 2015

Wishing you Happy Holidays from the Island Dance Team Tel: 2987 1571 dance@islanddance.com.hk www.islanddance.com.hk

FAMILY MATTERS

HOLIDAY GIFTING! Try these creative diversions for cool kids 1. My First Blinglets, HK$150, Toys Club 2. Classic Etch A Sketch, HK$200, Toys Club 3. Uno Blast, HK$299.90, Toys Club 4. Kinetic Sand, HK$149.90, Toys“R”Us 5. Crocodile Hop, HK$350, Bumps to Babes 6. Robo Designer Book, HK$79, Bumps to Babes

1

2

5

6

3

4 December 2014

57

FAMILY MATTERS

1 2

4

3

5

SANTA IS COMING! Must-haves for Christmas stockings 1. Skip Hop Bandana Buddies, HK$199, Bumps to Babes 2. Little Ballerina, HK$120, Bumps to Babes 3. Gearup Baymax, HK$299.90, Toys“R”Us 4. 17” Light Up Colour Changing Bear, HK$199.50, Toys“R”Us 5. Gruffalo, HK$180, Toys Club 6. Peppa Pig Princess, HK$159, Toys Club

Find it • Bumps to Babes, www.bumpstobabes.com • Toys Club, www.itoysclub.com • Toys“R”Us, www.toysrus.com.hk

58

December 2014

6

Santa shops at

Shanghai Warrior

$550 Speaking Keyboard & Wooden Guitar

Powertools Work Bench

from

$650

$475

LeapBand™

pink or green

Dolls

from

$339.90

$120

Red Bus Sorter

Cash Register with Accessories

Princess Palace

Balance Bike Micro G

$350

$499

$999

$1,499

Raleigh Bikes & Trikes 18mths - 10yrs

Avalanche Fruit Salad

Junior Trampoline

Hairstyling Head & Hairdressing Case

$189

$599

from

$1,299

from $1,290 $225

MONEY MATTERS

MONEY TREE

Whether it’s paying down debt, planning for the future or simply getting your bank accounts organised, year-end is a great time to change up your financial habits. Gordon Franks reports

I

n the run up to Christmas, many of us are reviewing our income and spending for the last year, and also looking at plans for 2015. December is the perfect time to re-evaluate your financial situation and tidy up your bank accounts, budgeting, debts and investments.

and then the costs of transferring currencies around? These costs can appear small but actually turn out to be very high indeed, when you add them all up.

We are spoilt for choice when it comes to personal banking facilities here in Hong Kong but we need to be aware that this is not always the case elsewhere in Asia. There are restrictions on nonresidents opening accounts in many South East Asian countries, whether they are looking to do so for business purposes or to finance investment homes. If you have an account in South East Asia, or you are looking to open an account, be sure to check the inherent costs associated with transferring, holding and withdrawing funds.

One thing many people take for granted is their personal banking set up, particularly if they have accounts and expenses in several countries. It could be prudent, then, to look at your own personal arrangements before we move into the New Year.

Take stock of your accounts

Photos courtesy of www.picturesofmoney.org

We all know that bank accounts are essential. Living in Hong Kong, many of us juggle two – one for savings and the other for salary receipts – plus a credit account.

We use our Hong Kong accounts as a convenience facility, allowing us to manage our personal finances when it comes to receiving our salary/ other income, and paying bills (including setting up regular standing orders, so we don’t forget them). These accounts make cash available for us at ATM machines, so we can replenish our pockets and have resources available for everyday expenses.

In our increasingly international community, most of us likely also have bank accounts overseas.

It is rare for expats to completely cut ties with their home country, which means many of us have an account there too. Such accounts are useful, allowing us to receive local income without having to bear heavy international

bank charges, or have cash converted to Hong Kong dollars when exchange rates are not favourable.

The same principle applies to offshore locations, where we often form some sort of financial connection. By keeping money offshore, in tax havens, we can preserve its value with an added choice of currencies. This allows us, for example, to feed any offshore investment vehicles.

Review your overseas banking Having bank accounts in various locations and in a number of currencies is, therefore, often considered essential. It affords convenience and relatively easy financial management.

But there is a potential downside. Have you considered the costs you may be incurring to maintain your accounts,

When tidying up your personal banking, consider too, that if you have worked in other countries before Hong Kong, there may be an account there which you have forgotten to close. If you have left a small balance in the account, you could find that the balance is below the minimum for ‘free’ banking, and that you are gradually incurring debt.

Have you also weighed up the risk of having accounts open with certain banks, in certain countries? There were a number of investors who held accounts with Icelandic banks in 2008, in the Isle of Man and Jersey, because they paid a little more interest than their competitors. These banks collapsed during the financial crisis as Iceland was very badly affected, leaving depositors with significant losses to bear. There was also the famous Lehman Brothers’ debacle in 2008, which drove home the point that this can happen to any bank.  December 2014

61

MONEY MATTERS Consider a British expatriate living in Hong Kong with a number of bank accounts in various locations. He owns property in Australia, the UK and Hong Kong and so maintains accounts there to receive rent and pay his associated local bills in a like currency.

He also banks in the Isle of Man because he has investments there and keeps reserves in US dollars, British pounds and Euros. He is aware that if he held accounts in Europe, the UK and the US, internet banking would allow him to transfer money around the world, but unless it is all held with the same bank, and at a certain level, there could be more costs associated.

Dust off your financial statements Bearing all this in mind, it is important to review your banking arrangements

as carefully and regularly as you review your asset management. If you haven’t taken stock for a while, you may be shocked at the costs you are paying, whether explicitly or inexplicitly.

As an example, some banks charge you to move funds from country to country; others then charge you to take money out in different countries, and will then also charge you a foreignexchange fee. This means you could end up being charged three times for withdrawing money, from an account you seldom use.

ATS can ensure you remain fully compliant with Australian taxation requirements and can help you to a tax free investment and tax holiday through proper tax planning.

Don’t risk high penalties and tax bills.

ATS

Gordon Franks is managing director of Platinum Financial Services Ltd, an independent Hong Kong-based investment and financial advisory firm catering to professional expatriates across Asia. Email Gordon at gordonfranks@fsplatinum.com.

@ www.arounddb.com

Specialist Mortgage, the No.1 provider of Australian property finance to international investors

Australasian Taxation Services, the leading Australian Expat & property tax experts

If you own an Australian Property, you must lodge annual Australian income tax returns.

Do you regularly review your banking arrangements? Do you have accounts which are dormant and cost you fees and charges? Are you managing your cash at the bank in such a way that you are getting the best value for money from your accounts? If not, it’s time to assess your situation and ensure you are doing right by yourself.

By completing a banking review and closing accounts which are not required, as well as getting yourself organised to know precisely which cards to use and how to manage cash with each bank, you’ll reap the benefits. You’ll ensure that charges are kept to a minimum, and that you have a relationship with your bank, rather

Find more monetary advice

Why pay tax on your Australian Property investment when with legal tax planning it can be eliminated.

than the bank having the relationship with you.

Making the right decisions on your Australia property

We can: •

Prepare your Australian Tax Return

•

Ensure tax free Australian property investment

•

Ensure you pay no tax for a period on your return to Australia

•

money and give you peace of mind for the future.

of all lenders and therefore can professionally guide you to the best loan

Expat tax planning

for your individual circumstances.

For a free, no obligation discussion contact: Helen Wong +852 3571 8700 Email: helen.wong@smats.net

•

We are fully independent

Provide full Migration and service

•

finance can save you

specialist mortgage

•

•

Choose from a range of interest rates in AUD, SGD, USD, HKD & GBP Access to over 30 banks and financial institutions ensuring the best range of loan products for your Australian property The most flexible lending criteria and repayment options Our service is FREE of charge

For a free, no obligation discussion contact: Dwight Stuchbery +852 3571 8700 Email: dwight@smats.net

Visit Our Website at www.smats.net

Since 1995

specialist mortgage

ATS

Level 24 Onfem Tower, 29 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong Australia | China | Dubai | Hong Kong | Malaysia | Singapore | Indonesia | UK | USA

Australian Credit License Number: 385201

MOMENTS

BLUE ODYSSEY You’d have to be living at the bottom of the ocean not to have heard about Bruce Pye and Olivier Baillet’s epic swim around Lantau last month. But what did the key players gain most from the experience? Beverly Au reports

“M

entally, it all started after 600 metres, when we passed ‘the rock’ off Tai Pak Wan, in DB. This time, contrary to training days, we didn’t turn left; we swam straight into the ocean.”

In describing the start of his 75-kilometre swim around Lantau with pal Bruce Pye, Olivier Baillet immediately brings home the enormity of the task. Relying almost totally on their support teams (and Olivier’s wife’s hummus and quinoa salad), the DBers swam for around six hours a day, for five days, up against brutal waves and rough tides.

The swimmers It was Bruce who came up with the idea – to raise awareness about the effects of (local) marine pollution, and support the work of DB-based eco-charity Plastic Free Seas (PFS).

The result? A media frenzy, and over HK$100,000 raised to date.

right. “Suddenly, I saw the full body of a dolphin rising above the water,” Olivier says. “What an emotion!

And then… I saw the Big Buddha, enlightened (pun intended) by the radiant sun at his back. I was in ecstasy! The sun and the Big Buddha, Bruce and me, and the pink dolphins, all perfectly aligned.”

The swimmers experienced sunny days that showcased the beauty of wild Lantau, but also extreme conditions.

“The sea beaten by the wind, with waves and white crests in all directions, was a battlefield we had to cross,” says Olivier. The seasoned triathletes both stress that for once, this endurance test wasn’t about their egos; it was about “finishing for a noble cause”.

Olivier also reveals what that took: “We endurance junkies have quite an unusual relationship with pain: We look for it, we embrace it, we love it because it makes us feel more alive,” he Tracey Read, Olivier Baillet, Bruce Pye and Dana Winograd

Photo by Vincent Ypersiel

Talking about the challenge, Bruce mentions a special moment on day three, shortly after sunrise: “Olivier and I were swimming in perfect sync together, both in the zone and moving along at a strong, relaxed pace. We gave each other a big smile. That smile summed up our whole journey together; it was very clear to us at that moment why we were there.”

66

Olivier’s highpoint occurred just a few hours earlier, when the swimmers spotted two pinkish fins, 50 metres to their

Plastic Free Seas For Dana Winograd of PFS, a very different ‘moment’ stands out.

On the first day, Dana recalls standing on the deck of the PFS sea trawler, and spying a wrapper fly by, down into the water. “I couldn't believe it,” she says.

“And there standing near the edge of the boat was the boat boy. I asked the translator to confirm that he had thrown his trash overboard, and to reiterate our charity’s mission.

“That was the last piece of rubbish thrown overboard on our five-day journey,” Dana says with pride. “The captain and boat boy quickly came to understand our desire for clean seas, and took great joy in explaining to people in other boats what we were doing and why.”

“With this event, we managed to reach people, we might not have been able to reach before,” PFS founder, Tracey Read concludes. “With a bit of awareness and understanding, people can change their behaviour.”

Find it

Seru Rabeni set to beef up DB Pirates’ play

Find more local heroes December 2014

says. “We know that if we overcome it, we will be stronger.”

• To make a donation, go to www.justgiving. com/75kmswimchallenge • Find out more at www.plasticfreeseas.org, www.sportsworld.hk and http://blueodyssey226. wordpress.com

@ www.arounddb.com

Aqua Blu Season’s Greetings Boat/Yacht Sales & Brokerage - Berths/Debentures - Marine Insurance - Marine Problems/Resolution

傅 耀 宗

Over 30 years’ international and local experience in maritime and shipping matters and marine insurance.

Helping you safely navigate uncharted waters.

Pleasure craft Weekenders

Sailing yachts Holiday boats

Super yachts Boat charters

Professional - Discreet - Effective AquaBlu Marine Consultancy Limited Paul Fortune, LLB (Hons) (Cardiff)

Telephone: (852) 6017 7802 Email: Oceanblu@netvigator.com

* No commission is charged to buyers Covering: Discovery Bay | Gold Coast | Aberdeen | New Territories

ESCAPES

EVEREST

AND ALL THAT The mountains of Nepal: sensational, serious and sometimes silly.

Peter Sherwood revisits some highly memorable Himalayan treks

N Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

epal, perhaps the most spectacularly beautiful small country on earth, is about the same size as Florida. Were the mountainous Himalayan state flattened, it would likely be as big as the entire United States. Home to eight of the world’s 14, 8,000-metre mountains and with dozens over 6,000 metres, it’s a heady prospect for visitors.

68

Nepal has become such a magnet for mountaineers that in the spring climbing season, even Mount Everest can be crowded – on a single day in 2012, no fewer than 234 climbers reached the summit (8,848 metres).

Trekkers to Mount Everest South Base Camp (5,364 metres) number around 35,000 a year.

Ironic then that Sir Edmund Hillary, the first man to ‘conquer’ the world’s December 2014

highest mountain, said after his climb that he thought nobody would want to go there again.

Risks and rewards With all the human traffic on Mount Everest, it might be easy to imagine that much of the risk has been eliminated.

Not so. In April this year, 16 Sherpas, employed as guides and porters, were killed in an avalanche above base camp.

In October, at least 43 trekkers were killed on the Annapurna mountain range, when an out-of-season blizzard struck, creating avalanches and pinning people down in the high winds, deep snow and freezing, whiteout conditions.

Most were hiking tourists. They weren’t mountaineers, but amateur enthusiasts trekking teahouse to teahouse on one

of the region’s best-known ‘applepie circuits’, so-called because of the (delicious) bakeries en route.

Many will have been inexperienced and ill-equipped to handle extreme conditions. Non-technical, Himalayan climbs and treks, like these, average at around 6,000 metres – they’re high up, and they’re dangerous. They can also be inexpertly managed. On this occasion, no one expected a freak storm, and apparently no one checked.

Historically, all western mountaineers were elite climbers, now even Mount Everest is open to almost anyone.

With commercial outfits offering the summit as a product, Nepali highaltitude workers establish the routes and create a ‘rope and ladder road’ from base camp to the top.

It’s a risky business and not to be underestimated. As the great climbing

ESCAPES

Just try taking a bad photo in the Himalayas!

leader Rob Hall, who died tragically on Everest in 1996, told me prophetically, a couple of weeks before his final climb: “If you’re in trouble very high on the mountain, you might as well be on the moon.”

On meeting a Maoist Climbing at altitude into thin air is hard work. Almost 20 years ago, on a Mera Peak trekking trail, an American guide advised me: “This can be slow and painful, or fast and painful – time to choose.” But descending can be rich in hilarity.

In 2005, I joined a group trekking near Mount Dhaulagiri. Back then, Maoist guerrillas controlled the high terrain in most of Nepal and issued receipts to trekkers for a HK$115 ‘donation’. It was late October and there was a freak rainstorm, along with unexpected

heavy snow up high. My group sensibly retreated from an icy ridge to wait out the torrential rain in a teahouse.

As we played cards and devastated a shelf of watery Bagpiper whisky, in walked a diminutive Maoist. Everyone happily gave him a hundred bucks, except for three, obnoxious, young hikers, who offered instead a barrage of abuse. As he left, I quietly asked our guide, Rajendra, if their angry response and non-payment had been a good idea. He looked at me blankly and said, “Nope”. The Maoists had guns.

Early next morning Rajendra was laughing with a fellow guide: “Hey Peter,” he said. “My friend has a group of tourists from China, and last night they told the Maoist they wanted a discount! Can you believe that?

They got up at 5am to photograph the sunrise but they’ve been locked

in their rooms. They’ll go back down the trail today with the three, young hikers. And they’ll be met at the next village by men with AK47s saying, ‘Today it’s HK$230 each – would you like to donate now?’”

A bridge not nearly far enough Just as memorable, is an experience I had in Langtang National Park, just a few years earlier. After a hard, 10-hour drop down from Yala Peak, we hit a half-finished, Fred Flintstone-type bridge, which set out to cross a raging, glacial torrent. A thing of prehistoric beauty, it was fashioned from logs and branches.

We were confidently assured that this new structure had replaced a substandard crossing, now washed away. It was almost an arch, a magnificent primitive structure, with   December 2014

69

ESCAPES epic, ‘Barney Rubble’ pylons of rocks and logs thrusting out like Indian fertility symbols from both banks. The problem was the missing 3-metre bit in the middle.

Asked to wait an hour for a major infrastructure project to be completed, our group leaned towards hysteria.

Meanwhile, as the sun sank and the temperature nosedived, our leader, thirsting for thrills, began muttering about complicated mountaineering techniques involving a bit of rope.

Soon he was rummaging through his gear and explaining – mostly to himself – the art of fixing a Tyrolean traverse.

The ‘Tyrol’ involves using a fixed line to cross from one point to another, often over water. Wearing a harness, you clip onto the rope to pull yourself across. It’s a clever invention designed for climbers traversing yawning crevasses, gorges and the like. At least that’s the theory.

The power of prayer As our leader prepared to swing his rope, the rest of us kneeled and faced Mecca, made the sign of the cross, chanted Tibetan prayers for the dead and generally pleaded with our Flintstonian bridge builders. The major infrastructure works were not going to happen. We knew it and they knew it.

But I took the positive and unspoken view that if I was soon to be frozen blue and mangled over sharp rocks, it made sense to think pleasantly delusional thoughts. Like the bridge will be completed by 6pm.

It could have been my bleak ‘Om’ repetitions, or another guy in our party flogging himself with a thorny bush and reciting Hail Mary’s, whatever it was it worked. The Stone Age boys shoved across two poles, partly axeflattened and about 10 centimetres’ wide. These would constitute our way forward, hopefully without the need for a complicated Alpine thingamajig.

Mount Everest South Base Camp

A typical Annapurna teahouse

Sherpas: the unsung heroes of the Himalayas

Himalayan treks are available for large and small groups, of any fitness level

Darkness descended. One by one, we took tentative steps across the wobbly connection. The temptation was to remain prostrated in prayer with eyes closed, and crawl terrified over the swaying poles, but in situations like these, an irrational sense of macho annihilates reason. Once across, we began a long walk with fading headlamps towards ‘civilisation’.

When to go October to November is peak season – and crowded. From December to January, the visibility is still good, and the countryside is green and lush, although it can get very cold. The spring season is colourful with rhododendrons and other flowers in bloom.

Trekking and climbing options Nepal has dozens of trails and mountain climbs: easy/ strenuous/ difficult.

Itineraries of the popular routes, everything from teahouse and camping treks to serious ascents, are available online. For something a bit different with a small group, try the ‘trekking peaks’. These non-technical climbs average around 6,000 metres, visit www.nepaltrekkingpeaks.org.

Trekking guides For highly experienced guides, enabling cost-effective camping or teahouse treks, email Rajendra Gurung at trek2himalayas@gmail.com.

Peter Sherwood, a DB resident of 16 years, has been a regular visitor to Nepal for 36 years. He is the author of Everest: Legendary Victors and Vanquished.

Find more exciting travel destinations

70

December 2014

While crashing into thorny bushes, trees and large rocks, I glimpsed the outline of a small suspension bridge and the village beyond. Suddenly out of the darkness, behind a powerful flashlight, a drunken voice announced in a considered tone: “It is dark”. I thanked whoever it was for this vital piece of information, and forged ahead to where I’d been assured there was cold beer.

@ www.arounddb.com

ACTION

TIME TO RACE Justin Reynolds and Henrik Brockmeyer

Photos by Terry Chow

Wet weather conditions and high winds gave competitors in the Asian Open Regatta a particularly wild ride on the weekend of November 8. Nic Tinworth reports

72

S

year celebrated its 30th birthday. Based at the end of Tai Pak Wan in DB, the club caters for non-powered waterbased activities, including catamarans, dinghies, canoes, coastal rowing boats and windsurfers.

One of these clubs is, of course, the Lantau Boat Club (LBC), which last

In addition to weekend races and social sails for the 300+ active members, the LBC organises several key events every year. The oldest and biggest is the annual Asian Open Regatta which,

ailing is as synonymous with Hong Kong as our ubiquitous trams and red taxis. And ever since the first recorded local yacht races began, under the auspices of the Victoria Regatta Club in 1849, several local clubs and communities have spawned and continue to grow and prosper.

December 2014

like the club itself, has just turned 31, and has morphed organically into the largest multi-hull regatta in Asia.

Thrills and spills This year, 51 participating boats and a crew of 20 volunteers, plus onshore staff came together on the weekend of November 8 for some highly enjoyable racing. The Asian Open Regatta is open to anyone, with competitors

ACTION

often coming in from overseas. This year, the LBC entered 40 boats; the Hong Kong Hobie Club, nine; and the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, two.

The regatta offers a highly competitive experience on the water, and this is supplemented by excellent post-race social gatherings that are as revered as the racing itself.

As LBC chair, responsibility for making sure that everything runs smoothly before, during and after the races falls to seasoned sailor Steve Devlin, who has been involved with the club since 2012.

“The Asian Open Regatta is a full-on, no-holds-barred racing regatta”, he explains. “It involves endurance, has technical as well as tactical elements, is exhausting, and there are disputes at times as no quarter is given on the water!”

Cautioning that high pressure accidents are likely in an event like this, Steve caveats that post-race war stories are always a good topic for conversation between sailors. “Boats crash sometimes. There are breakages and sometimes there are injuries, although we do laugh about it after the event over several beers.”

With two dismastings, numerous capsizes, and one boat sailing off into the distance without her crew, this year’s regatta had its fair share of hairraising moments.

Steve and Andy Perret’s boat lost her mainsail in the very first race, with it tearing from luff to leach in around 16 knots of wind. “Saturday was a complete loss, as we sat on the beach whilst all the others raced,” Andy says ruefully. “But the new sail arrived at 9.15am on Sunday, meaning we could compete, and come second in, the Around the Island race.”

Jolly good boating weather As one of the premier cat-sailing events in Asia, the Asian Open Regatta is

At the start: Tai Pak Wan in DB

Andy Perret and Steve Devlin

Bo Fussing

Ross Jolliffe

Aaron Metz and Iain Short

open to beach catamarans of up to 20 feet. There are several classes of racing that include Dart 18s, Hobie 16s and a growing presence of high-performance F18 and F16 catamarans. Boats race to an internationally recognised handicap scale, that allows close racing between different sets of equipment.

The Saturday races consist of up to five Round the Buoys races, where competitors race on a geometric course set up in the waters off the coast of Discovery Bay and Peng

Chau. LBC race officer Bo Fussing strives to ensure the best possible courses on the day, which can often be tricky given the fickle nature of the winds at this time of year.

“Providing the race management, keeping the three fleets sailing as much as possible and providing challenging racing is a demanding aspect of the event,” he says. “Sometimes the wind does not cooperate around Peng Chau and we have to triage as best as possible, but this year, with the wind at 15 to 18  December 2014

73

ACTION

Cindy Chung

Round the Buoys racing

Steve Devlin

Benny Chan and Rita Yau

knots, it was an extremely wild ride, with the spinnaker boats hitting speeds in excess of 22 knots. Truly knife-edge stuff and very close racing!”

On the Sunday there are two further Round the Buoys races and a two-hour Around the Island Race. Always good for spills, Sunday’s racing, this year, saw wind speeds of up to 15 knots.

All competitors are given a map showing possible race locations, but it’s up to Bo to choose which to use, depending on conditions at the time.

His decisions are announced at the race briefing but can also be changed last minute and communicated by nominated flags, which can make for exciting starts and unexpected results.

Henrik Brockmeyer

“We often get close racing, especially in the Hobie 16 fleet, and it is not unusual that the winners emerge in the final few races,” he says. “This form of racing keeps the sailors on their toes and garners great feedback.”

Prizes are awarded to the overall winner, the winner of each of the classes racing and to the overall winner of the Around the Island race, and both days are finished with a barbecue and celebration on the beach.

Regular competitor and cat-sailor Michael Scantlebury sails to the regatta from the Hong Kong Hobie Club, in a ‘passage race’ from Tai Tam to DB called the Macleod Cup. This year, after some fearless sailing alongside

Find more clubs and activities

74

December 2014

LBC commodore Justin Reynolds, Peter Williams and Peter Mossop

David Harris, he placed first overall, and first in the F18 Division.

“The Asian Open Regatta has grown considerably in the past 10 years driven by commitment, enthusiasm and great organisation by the LBC committee,” Michael says. “Bo is an ex cat-sailor himself so he knows how to run a good regatta.”

Find it • For race results and event photos, turn to page 14, or visit www.arounddb.com/ event-gallery • To find out more, visit www.lantauboatclub.com

@ www.arounddb.com

LIFESTYLE

F

or me the holidays have always started on December 1, when the Xmas tree goes up and the box of decorations comes out. The nostalgia kicks in immediately, as I’ve had some of the baubles, Santas and stars in my collection since I was a child. What I like to do is use this memorabilia from Christmases past to decorate my home in new and novel ways each year.

For most of us, a good holiday decor is built on tradition – there’s the tree, a couple of themed centrepieces, candles and a wreath or two. But when working with these staples, you don’t have to play it safe. Meaning you don’t have to create the exact same atmosphere or look from year to year.

One of the top themes for Xmas 2014 is ‘excess’. Glamorous, glitzy and big on bling, it’s as over the top and decadent as can be. Play it that way if you want, but to me the more interesting look this year is the diametric opposite.

Rather than piling on the gold, silver, emerald and ruby, and going totally over the top with tinsel and streamers, we have the option to simplify, get innovative and style up.

Charming countdown

Photos courtesy of Jane Clyde

Before you jump to any conclusions, this won’t take the fun out of holiday decorating. Far from it! The plan is to set up just a few, key focal points and really make them sing.

As a starting point, remove as many year-round decor items as you can. By so doing you’ll create space, on shelves and side tables, for seasonal displays.

And as a bonus, when you reinstate your everyday ornaments on Twelfth Night ( January 6), you’ll find that you appreciate them all the more.

Step two: Decide on a two- or three-tone Christmas colour scheme and stick to it, religiously. You may find, for instance, that most of the pieces in your Xmas box are red. If that’s the case, pack away the lone, purple bauble and the single strand

1

FESTIVE

ARRANGEMENT Capture the magic of a classic holiday season by following Jane Clyde’s simply stylish and totally doable decorating tips

of gold tinsel, and limit your holiday decorating to red and white.

Red with apple or lime green, and silver with purple or turquoise are fashionable colour choices for the 2014 holidays. But basically anything goes, as long as you control the use of colour in your scheme.

Step three: Arrange key pieces innovatively, and work with what

you have. If the trend this year is to simplify, it follows that you won’t have to buy many new pieces. Vintage decorations are fashionable, as are homemade ones. All that’s required is that you think out of the box when arranging your displays.

Check out the tips overleaf! Here’s to a Xmas decor that provides blessed relief from all the bling and excess in the malls.  December 2014

77

LIFESTYLE

2

Rather than piling on the gold, silver, emerald and ruby, and going totally over the top with tinsel and streamers, we have the option to simplify, get innovative and style up

4

78

3

5 December 2014

6

LIFESTYLE

Get the look!

1 Xmas decorations can bring in an element of serenity that

may otherwise be absent during the holiday season. Rather than going over the top with your decorating, opt for a clean and calming Christmas theme. Simple seasonal stickers (pictured) are big this year, providing a fuss-free way to dress up a wall and create a chic focal point. Importantly, you won’t have to get out your roller brushes on Twelfth Night to repaint a wall, as these modern stickers peel off easily.

2 Vintage accessories continue to be popular, and they sit

well in even the most contemporary rooms. You can raid your Xmas box for old favourites, or pick up a few choice items in the stores. And remember, it’s the way you display time-old pieces that counts. Here, a vintage-look arrangement is placed under glass to create a fun but also classic and elegant still life.

3 Repurposing makes sense on many levels. Of course it’s

satisfying to work with what you have, and it also cuts costs.

Here, a group of glass vases are grouped together and styled up for Christmas with the simple addition of red baubles and candles. When setting up a still life like this, remember that a two-tone colour scheme, with white, works best.

4 Doing things differently introduces a touch of whimsy.

The easy and innovative arrangement pictured can be thrown together in minutes and placed on shelves, or used as a dining table centrepiece. Think out of the box and you can come up with hundreds of novel ways to decorate your home, while still using classic pieces. Why not suspend oversized baubles from a low-hung light fixture, or style up with a couple of miniature trees instead of the usual, 6-foot Douglas Fir.

5 Christmas crafts add a personal touch, and are, of course,

so much fun to make! You are ahead of the game if you saved last year’s Christmas cards and wrap, as these can be used to make anything from paper lanterns to baubles. All you need are scissors and a stapler. Here, basic paper curls have been used to craft a charming, trad-look Christmas wreath.

6 A few well-chosen statement pieces go a long way. With all

this repurposing and crafting, you’ll feel justified in splashing out on a few fashionable, yet timeless, decor items. Woodland holiday themes are bang on trend, as are retro designs, complete with candy canes and sprigs of pine (pictured). Key additions to your holiday scheme this year, might also include a frosted Christmas tree, chevron ribbons and just a little bit of burlap.

Find more on stylish living

@ www.arounddb.com

December 2014

79

International experience?

We have it too Many of our people are expats themselves – their expertise helps assignees and HR teams alike.

Crown service offerings include: • Transit Insurance • Pet & Car Transfers • Immigration & Legalization • Home Search • School Search • Expense Management

Tel: +852 2636 8388 hongkong@crownrelo.com

Go knowing

www.crownrelo.com/hongkong CR ad AustCham magazine Sept.indd 1

8/18/2014 9:13:02 AM

HK HAPPENINGS

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH! www.bodw.com

Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com

Business of DESIGN WEEK

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, r 1-6 e b Wanchai cem

De

Business of Design Week (BODW), Asia’s leading annual event on design, innovation and brands, attracts some 100,000 participants from more than 40 countries each year. Organised by Hong Kong Design Centre, the week of talks and exhibitions is open to all.

Featuring over 50 prominent international designers and business leaders, and with Sweden partnering the event, you can expect plenty of insight into product, fashion and ‘living’ design. Find out more at www.bodw.com.

WINTER FAIR

Island School, Mid Levels

r6

be Decem

Photo by Stephen Chu

As well as stalls to shop, kids can take part in a treasure hunt and visit Santa’s Grotto, from 12pm to 4.30pm. Admission is HK$10 and proceeds go to Island School Parent Teacher Association and Kenneth McBride Nicola Myers Trust. There’s a free shuttle bus to and from City Hall, Central, leaving every hour from 11.30am. The last bus leaves Island School at 4.30pm. Visit www.island.edu.hk.

A day at the RACES!

Ocean of LIGHT!

er 14

Decemb

31 er 13-

b Decem

The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin

Ocean Park, Aberdeen See Ocean Park transform into Hong Kong’s largest indoor lighting spectacle, lit up with millions of ecofriendly, rainbow-coloured LEDs. You can also check out the park’s 70-foot Christmas tree, listen to carols and watch dancers put on holiday street shows at Summit Plaza. Kids can pay a visit to Santa in his candy cottage at Waterfront Plaza each day. To find out more, visit www.oceanpark.com.hk.

The global racing calendar reaches a competitive climax with the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races, which attract some of the world’s leading horses, jockeys, trainers and owners. With top honours and millions of Hong Kong dollars at stake, there’s everything to race for in this annual four-race championship, comprising the Hong Kong Cup, Hong Kong Mile, Hong Kong Sprint and Hong Kong Vase.

Admission is just HK$10.

Visit www.racing.hkjc.com.

Dreamy KIDS' BEDDING

www.butterflydreams.com.hk

Butterfly Dreams, the Hong Kong-based, luxury bed-linen brand shares its profits with Savong’s School and Savong’s Orphan Center in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Rather appropriately, the company is introducing a new children’s line, Butterfly Dreams Kids. The collection comes in pastels and brights, and combines natural fabrics, like cotton, with recycled synthetics, such as polyester, to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. You can order online from www.butterflydreams.com.hk.

maisonchaplin.blogspot.com

December 2014

81

HK HAPPENINGS

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders www.hkballet.com

The NUTCRACKER

er Decemb-28 19-21, 24

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui Nothing says Christmas like The Hong Kong Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker, showing at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Choreographed by Aussie-born Terence Kohler, with live music by the Hong Kong Sinfonietta, the ballet tells the story of Clara, Fritz and the Nutcracker Prince. Standard tickets start at HK$140, from www.urbtix.hk.

AsiaWorld-Expo Arena, Chek Lap Kok

ber Decemary 18 u 21-Jan www.lunchbox-productions.com

vourite!

Family Fa 1. When The Nutcracker was premiered at St. Petersburg’s Imperial Mariinsky Theatre on December 18, 1892, it was a bit of a flop. But now, almost 120 years later, the ballet is an essential part of the holiday season for theatregoers worldwide.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has been translated into 13 different languages and won over 70 major theatre awards. A stellar international cast of 37, accompanied by a full live orchestra, takes on this heart-wrenching love story between the mysterious Phantom and the young opera singer Christine. Standard ticket prices start at HK$295, and tickets are available at www.hkticketing.com.

5 FUN FACTS: THE NUTCRACKER!

www.galleryhip.com

Ramsay’s BREAD KITCHEN LKF Hotel, SoHo Renowned British chef Gordon Ramsay’s first Hong Kong venue, Bread Kitchen and Bar in Lan Kwai Fong offers up the same mix of British/ European classics as its London counterpart. Sell-out dishes include honey short ribs, fish and chips and Eton mess. Adding some British rock to the equation, tickets for Ramsay’s Brilliantly British New Year’s Eve Party start at HK$588. Call 2230 1800.

2. The Hong Kong Ballet has performed The Nutcracker every December since 1997.

3. Major American ballet companies generate around 40% of their annual ticket revenues from performances of The Nutcracker.

4. Tchaikovsky’s score is now one of his most famous compositions, in particular The Nutcracker Suite, which features the Russian, Chinese and Arabian dances, plus the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

5. Cadbury’s brought the Dance of the Mirlitons (the Russian Dance) into the public domain in its 1976 TV advert; and in 2013, Baileys updated the love story for a starstudded Christmas promotion.

FOOD FESTIVAL!

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai Foodies are in for a treat at the 12th annual Hong Kong Food Festival. With some 500 exhibitors selling local and international culinary creations, this is the largest indoor food festival in Hong Kong. Food zones include Hong Kong Delicacies, Taste of Korea and Healthy Green. The festival runs from 10am to 9pm through December 28, and 10am to 7pm on December 29. Admission at the door is HK$20. Visit www.hka.com.hk/food.html.

82

December 2014

ber Decem29 25- www.93ab.com

www.hkballet.com

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!

Who am I? KayeKaye Khemlani (PIBA No. 0032-009006), a native English-speaking insurance advisor, with a strong presence in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong.

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 domestichelper insurance and automobile coverage), are always worth due diligence.

Your home is your castle, so why not protect it from the elements, drunk guests, clumsy kids and thieves?

A home package can do all that and more! Whether you rent or own your home, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

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.

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.

RS_GERMANCOMMUNITYAD.indd 1

25/03/2013 4:13 PM

DB FACES

COMMUNITY SNAPS!

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

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

COMPETITION

Photos by Baljit Gidwani

Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar!

A

B

Y

C

Congratulations to last month’s winner Samantha Sawyer!

Please contact our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.

our challenge this month is to identify which of the photos above is the exact copy of a photograph featured elsewhere in this issue of Around DB. You need to list the page number the photo appears on, as well as which of the three photos is the exact copy. You can contact us via the competitions link at www.arounddb.com, by clicking on one of the QR Codes, or by emailing info@arounddb.com by December 10. This is your chance to win a complimentary coffee from Uncle Russ, or a beer from The Pier Bar every day for a week. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer. Good luck!

Discovery Bay Church (Anglican / Episcopal)

Christmas Services in Discovery Bay Church!

Come & Celebrate the Birth of Christ

Sunday 7 December, 10am Nine lessons and carols at Wei Lun School Hall Sunday 21 December, 4pm Nativity in the Plaza Wednesday 24 December (Christmas Eve) 6pm Nativity play with Christingle at North Plaza Community Hall Wednesday 24 December at 11pm Midnight Mass at Wei Lun School Chapel (Bilingual) Thursday 25 December (Christmas Day) 10am Christmas Day Eucharist in Music Room, 3rd floor, Wei Lun School

Wishing you a peaceful and joyous Christmas Discovery Bay Church (Anglican / Episcopal) Email: markrogers@discoverybaychurch.org.hk Daughter Church of St.John's Cathedral Web: www.discoverybaychurch.org.hk SKH Wei Lun Primary School, Priest in Charge: Discovery Bay Road The Reverend Mark Rogers 10:00am (English) Sunday Tel: 2987 4210 Mob: 5180 5106

Church of The Incarnation Sunday Services at SKH Wei Lun Primary School Chapel 10:30am Sunday Contact The Church Office 2987 0723

View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME & RDB TEENS

- 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 -

Pastor James Buckner Tel: 2987

www.88keys.com.hk E-mail: info@88keys.com.hk Tel : 9687 0726 7061 www.dbicc.org

HOME & REPAIRS

View local BUSINESS DIRECTORIES @ www.arounddb.com EMPLOYMENT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A mEssENGER? Michael, an Indian HK resident living on Lantau, seeks post of delivery person for mail/ documents/ small packages.

Full- or part-time. Call 9145 6731

DB-BASED REALTOR SEEKS EAA-LICENSED AGENTS Must have a good command of spoken & written English & Cantonese, an extra language is an advantage. Strong communication & interpersonal skills, mature outgoing personality, proactive, hardworking & detail oriented.

Attractive remuneration package for the right candidates.

Email your full CV to info@lifestylehomes.com.hk

FINANCE & INSURANCE

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

RETAIL

KIDS

HEALTH & WELLBEING

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

INTERCULTURAL COUNSELLING

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

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

Assisting with cultural adjustments related to: • Intercultural relationships/ communication – personal & work • Identity & self-understanding (biracial/ multiracial/ multicultural) • Migration & settlement • Diversity (sexual orientation, gender, disability, faith, age etc.)

Extensive experience in intercultural counselling & training.

Taught Social Work, Psychology & Counselling at universities in HK & Canada for the past 23 years.

Biracial, multicultural & multilingual.

Contact Amoy Ong MSW at aymong@aol.com

DB MARINA CLUB DEBENTURES

PETS

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 us at info@lifestylehomes.com.hk

GOOD NEWS FROM PETCODB

Micro Bubble Bath using Nano technology for pets is now available at PetcoDB. This penetrating clean powers deep into the pores, restoring fur condition, regaining moisture & providing relaxation. No shampoo is used.

Recommended for pets with skin allergies, dermatitis & body odour.

Call 2914 0382

HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY

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

DOG SERVICES

Looking for a business in DB, Tung Chung or South Lantau?

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

www.arounddb.com

SINCE 1997

OUR SERVICES DOG & CAT GROOMING ( BY APPOINTMENT ) PET FOOD & ACCESSORIES SUPPLIES CAT SITTING SERVICE FREE DAILY DELIVERY Ground floor 11B, Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay (next to Island Vet) Tel: 2987 0428 / Fax : 2914 1313 / E-mail : petsgallerydb@yahoo.com.hk Open from 9:00 am till 7:30 pm (Mon - Sun)

Birth & Postnatal Support Antenatal Classes Breastfeeding support Placenta remedies

Jeanne Hauguel

DOULA

Trust in yourself when it matters...

NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO?  Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents  Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients  English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counselors

© Cyril Almeras

Call 2523 8979 Now for Appointment http://www.resourcecounselling.org Serving the community over 35 years

6496 4318 | jeanne@doulabirthstory.com | www.doulabirthstory.com

A Member Agency of the Community Chest

December 2014

87

View local BUSINESS DIRECTORIES @ www.arounddb.com

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

For that picture perfect look 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

88

December 2014

View local BUSINESS DIRECTORIES @ www.arounddb.com SERVICES NOTARY SERVICES

Now available in DB at affordable rates. For enquiries, 9143 0799, notary@hpi.com.hk

TRAVEL CONCORdE TRAVEL

Leisure Travel and Cruise specialists since 1978.

Call 2526 3391 or visit www.concorde-travel.com Licence No 350343

TUITION & COURSES PIANO LESSONS

One-on-one classes provided by a professional piano teacher with over 20 years’ experience.

At Caribbean Coast. For a free trial call Miss Chui on 9467 4633

CLARINET/ SAXOPHONE/ FLUTE TUITION

Available in DB from professional musician with 25 years’ teaching experience & graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester, UK. Contact 9413 0498, janetwilliams.clarinet@gmail.com

CHINESE (MANdARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH

TUITION & COURSES

JAPANESE PRIVATE TUITION

Native speaker, 10 years’ teaching experience in HK. Any level/ Any purpose/ JLPT. Contact 6050 1731, (WhatsApp, LINE, Viber) micado66@netvigator.com

FULLY QUALIFIEd SCIENCE TEACHER

With Honours, Bachelors Degree.

Offering tutoring for KS3 and IGCSE Science (all disciplines) and IB/A’ Levels Physics.

Email mr.m.walker@yahoo.com.uk or call/text 6079 2052

Deadline for January issue CLASSIFIEDS

December 10

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

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).

Contact Erik R on 9666 9511, rerikm@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 http://tclearning.sinacool.com

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

FRENCH TUITION

Learn or improve your French with a HKU SPACE adjunct lecturer. Tailormade lessons to suit your needs.

Contact Karine on 9338 1961, or email 88karina@live.fr

December 2014

89

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

PROPERTY DB

MODERN 1-BEDROOM FLAT

DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS

Spacious open layout. Quiet, high floor.

Fully equipped kitchen. Shower. Washer/ dryer.

English movies & news, & wi-fi. Just unpack!

Competitively priced. Contact 6680 2007, greenmountain123@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

STUDIO CLOSE TO PIER 2-BED APARTMENT At Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished.

Call 9108 5525

Comfortable, nicely decorated studio, close to DB Plaza & pier, with fully equipped kitchen. TV, DVD, wi-fi, linens & towels provided. Contact 9190 7348, niceroom_db@yahoo.com.hk

GREENDALE COURT 2-BED NEW 1-BED APARTMENT Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment in Greendale Court. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525

800’ 2-bed flat with balcony & nice sea view.

Fully furnished, with wi-fi internet access.

Contact Sonya on 5241 9806, syeung72@hotmail.com

CHERISH COURT SERVICED APARTMENTS SIENA 2 Quiet with sea views, near Club Siena & tunnel.

Fully furnished, with bed linen & kitchenware.

55’ TVs, wi-fi, Blu-ray home theatre, washer/ drier. Short or long lease. Contact 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 FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view.

Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

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

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

90

December 2014

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 SHORT-TERM RENT Deluxe, spacious 4-bedroom villa, with ensuite bathrooms & private pool.

Wireless internet access, sala, bar & BBQ area.

Kitchen is fully equipped with laundry area.

Close to Laguna. Contact Roenel on 9050 4772, atsea@netvigator.com

The Pine House is a beautifully designed one-bedroom serviced apartment in Midvale Village, Discovery Bay available for short term rental.

Minimum stay is 3 nights and daily rate is HK$850/night.

For bookings please contact +852 9187 7880 or email to cynthia.lie@mac.com

Samui Luxury Pool Villa Private pool villa for sale by owner, consisting of 3 buildings with a pool in the middle. Located in gated villa resort in the best area on the North Coast with sea-views to Koh Phangan, and a 3 minute walk from the beach.

The villa is fully managed by a local management company that takes care of all guest services and house maintenance, The villa resort provides 24 hrs security and pool and garden service. It is sold fully furnished and ready to use.

Current owner is renting out the villa with a 50% occupancy rate, making it an extremely good investement for an owner wishing to combine ownership with investment.

For more information and photos contact owner at: samuivilla4sale@gmail.com Sales Price: 4.3 M HKD

Website: samuivilla4sale.wix.com/plumeria

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

SOUTH LANTAU

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

AQ Prettiness Jumping Castles Shoesee Foldable

FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

9527 6202 9662 1747 5502 6128 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

360° Sports Bar & Restaurant Airport Izakaya Andante Asian Taste Chef’s Express Deli Viet Bistro Delifrance Café Aficionado China Coast Bar & Grill Dragon Inn 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

2109 4360 2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4360 6504 4208 2109 0036 2109 4187 2286 6238 2286 6898 2286 6878 3760 6633 3602 8808 2626 0181 2109 1927 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 3180 0000 2286 6618 2286 6868 3969 1888 2109 1297 2109 0612 2802 8000

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

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

6627 4806 6385 0304 9708 0187 6770 1462 2984 0990 HOME & REPAIRS

2786 9699 3147 4088 2185 6550 2109 9396 2109 2288 2988 1534 2328 7282 2109 6800 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488 HOTELS

Novotel Citygate Regal Airport Hotel Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott

3602 8888 2286 8888 3969 1888 LEARNING CENTRES

Clement Art School Discovery Mind International Play Centre Greenfield International Kindergarten Kidznjoy Kindermusik Little Academy Salala Kids House Soundwaves English Education Centre Sun Island Education Foundation Sunshine House International Preschool Tung Chung Catholic School (Yat Tung) Tung Yan Day Nursery YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College

9021 1502 2987 8070 2162 5538 6273 7347 6976 8867 3520 3500 2611 9193 2164 7210 2420 1068 2109 3873 2109 4962 3194 5120 2988 8123

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

Caribbean Coast Club House Coastal Skyline Club House Impact Fitness Seaview Crescent Club House Smash Cricket Socatots Stepz Studio Tung Chung Crescent Club House

2109 9277 2179 6678 6902 2250 3473 8700 5400 4109 2385 9677 3152 7535 2403 6770

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

2984 0222 2984 1847 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 5465 5511 3489 1282 5402 4154 2984 7982 2984 0418 2984 1265 9022 5737 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2980 2699

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HEALTH & WELLBEING

9 Dragons Fitness Asian Hairdressers Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre Island Veterinary Services Ltd Tung Chung Vet Centre Tung Chung Maternal & Child Health Centre Quality Health Dental Quality Health Medical Raffles Medical

LANTAU NUMBERS

2988 8282 2988 1809 3661 1694

Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering Mantech Electrical Wah Sing AV Company

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 2819 6823 2984 0587 HOTELS

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES

Buddhist Fat Ho College Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten

2985 5150 2984 0302 2980 3676 3689 6709 2984 0006

PROPERTY AGENCIES

Home Solutions Real Estate Proper Trip Real Estate

3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Friendly Bike Shop Lantau Base Camp Red Hall Chinese Antiques Renge House (clothes & accessories) The Red Lantern ZenvarA

2134 1234 2984 2278 5463 6060 2988 1368 2984 0080 2984 0099 9586 3459

SERVICES & OTHERS

Hop Sing Automobile Jumping Castles SPCA Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio)

2984 1410 9662 1747 2984 0060 9025 3949 3114 0030 6351 8923 TRANSPORTATION

Lee Hing Loong Hon Kee Transportation Company Lantau Tours New Lantau Bus Company Sun Rising Moving Company

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848 2984 7918

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

DB NUMBERS

LEARNING CENTRES

COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza 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 Healthcare IMI (Natural Medicine Clinic), North Plaza Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza

2987 0855 2259 3422 2988 1515 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 2666 6183 2834 7276 2537 1087 2987 7575 2987 9003 2259 3422

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

A fun place for little ones to play and have loads of fun, fun, fun!

9327 0507 littleexplorers@team-fear.com

2812 2660 2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098

Midget Gems Kids Club Established playgroup for children 2-4 years in DB Plaza 6341 5764 dbmidgetgems@gmail.com www.midgetgemskidsclub.com

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 Travelex Money Exchange, North Plaza Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd

Playgroup run by Montessori-trained teacher. From 18 months to 4 years. 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com

HOME Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre

2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 0061 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428

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

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

Dumper Trucks & Daisies A Montessori-based playgroup programme that focuses on the growth and development of the whole child.

From 16 months to 4.5 years old 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com www.dumpertrucksanddaisies.com

Future Stars Dance Academy

Dance classes based on the ISTD requirements conducted in a fun, disciplined and safe environment.

2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

94

December 2014

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

FÊTE Event Planners

Bespoke event planning services, from coordination to execution, making your event stand out.

5199 9743 www.fete-eventplanner.com

Harvey Law Group 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

Playtime Kids DB 2233 3000 2682 1210 2987 1851

Apple Travel

Little Explorers

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

OTHER SERVICES

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 Learning Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten, North Plaza Treasure House

6114 2436 2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2914 2202 2987 1201 2987 4338 9511 2107 9380 5771 2416 3088 8191 0813 2987 8608 2987 0813 2987 8143 2987 4217

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

5369 2329 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 Ltd EPS Property Consultants Ltd Headland Homes Hong Kong Boats & Homes Kingsland DB Land Master Property Savills Hong Kong Ltd

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

FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS

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

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

% Arabica Coffee Roaster & Farm DB North Plaza 2885 1312 info@arabica.hk www.arabica.hk

Around DB’s January issue coming out January 1

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Berliner Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Ebeneezer’s First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay Figos Seaside Café il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Kiraku Tei Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery Life Cafe McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Solera Subway Super Super The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zaks

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

2987 2298 2295 8288 2987 8203 2987 0966 2987 2848 2987 0036 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 2915 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 2886 2987 0767 2987 1829 2591 1422 2987 8280 2987 1337 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2555 0772 2914 0005 2914 1308 2777 8411 2682 0068 2682 8110 2987 6232

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

Sports World All your sporting needs right here in DB 2914 1323 info@sportsworld.hk

“Everyone is a swimmer” Affordable Swimwear, training equipment & accessories.

9725 3142 www.baysideaquatics.hk

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES 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

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

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

A Mother’s Touch

Specialists in Pregnancy & Newborn Care Tel: 2851 9654 clientservices@amotherstouch.com.hk www.amotherstouch.com.hk

Tinytots A professional sports play program specially designed for children 16 months - 5 years of age.

34887724 info@tinytots.com.hk www.tinytots.com.hk

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

Bayside Aquatics

DB NUMBERS

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

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

TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES Bo Bo House Toysland

2987 4230 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES

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

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

Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more!

6624 8712 susan@embody.hk www.embody.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

Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266

MOW | Grooming & Skin Care ACCESSDB Rehabus DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services

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

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES 24-hour Customer Service Hotline China Light & Power Emergency China Light & Power Information Line

3651 2345 2728 8333 2678 2678

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

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

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

Movement Improvement Pilates, Yoga, Spinning, TRX, Zumba, Personal Training The complete solution on your doorstep at DB North Plaza 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk

View the business directory @ www.arounddb.com December 2014

95

OUT THERE

GLAD TIDINGS! In wishing a Merry Christmas to Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Peter Sherwood discusses the students of the Umbrella Revolution, driving the Merc into DB Plaza and painting Lantau pink

D

ear CY, good of you to pop over to DB for a preXmas beer. It must have been a nerve-racking lead up to the holidays for you, what with thousands of ridiculously courteous kids protesting in Central.

Pretty sinister if you ask me; polite and responsible teens en masse are enough to give anyone the jitters.

No wonder you went scurrying into hiding feeling a touch discombobulated, particularly after your daughter Facebooked the planet about being an Imelda Marcos on taxpayers’ dollar. Then you get smacked for an alleged HK$50 million indiscretion, and then half a dozen police beat the hell out of a protester.

Anyway, old friends are always welcome; mi casa su casa and all that.

take the ferry. I mean, driving over is OK. It’s just that parking in DB Plaza arouses more interest than I would like. And please lose the black Range Rover – big blokes in dark suits and sunglasses roaming the plaza at night are a wee bit disconcerting.

Between you and me, people here think I’m just some hack journalist loser. If they find out I’ve got connections, I’ll be hounded relentlessly. Money and power, CY, drives ‘em crazy – and it’s the ultimate aphrodisiac.

Photo courtesy of http://johnib.wordpress.com

96

On the subject of beer, when I buy you two cans of Asahi it seems churlish of you to reciprocate with a carton of chocolate soy milk from 7-Eleven. No offence, but if I drank it I would never hear the end of it from these plaza types. You see them buried under cans and bottles at the tables, and it’s easy to imagine they don’t notice anything. But believe me, people here notice everything.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m with you when it comes to this wasteful green stuff. I mean, it just sits there doing nothing. As far as I’m concerned you can cement the entire island and paint it pink, and even build a mammoth incinerator on the beach. It’s just that some lefty Lantau provocateurs have very peculiar thoughts on things green – and I don’t mean money, if you get my drift.

Merry Christmas, CY! (P.S. Just kidding!)

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 December 2014

Anyway, I told the locals you were on a fact-finding mission to discover what ‘Lantau’ is. I’m pleased we got that sorted. My apologies for having confused you with obscurities like ‘trees’ and ‘green open space’.

Happy you enjoyed the fireworks.

We get those twice a night. It’s called Hong Kong Disneyland. Nobody watches but they keep doing it anyway. Maybe your lovely wife would like to take a look. Be nice for her to get out of the house, and you out of the office. No fun being shoved around all day by geezers in Beijing.

Not much of a life I suppose.

People here notice everything

You certainly attract attention, and not so much from falling down drunk in the shrubbery. Plenty of DB people do that. It’s a small thing but next time, leave the gold Mercedes at home and

Lefty Lantau provocateurs

@ www.arounddb.com