Around DB December 2021

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D I S COV ERY B AY ' S O R I G I N A L CO M M U N I T Y M AGA Z I N E - P U B L I S H ED S I N C E 2 0 0 2

TIME TO SPARKLE

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PA R E N T I N G

D ECEM B ER 2 0 21 | A R O U N D D B.CO M

GLAD TIDINGS

A YEAR OF FUN AT DB ICE RINK

ACRODANCE YOUR WAY INTO 2022

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

OUR MERRIEST AND BEST XMAS ISSUE EVER! FOLLOW US

Wishing You A Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year!

GREAT DRINK • GREAT FOOD • GREAT COMPANY

Address: E&F G/F, Seaview Crescent Plaza, Tung Chung, Lantau Island Website: www.atavola.hk Tel: 2321 5500

REASONS TO VISIT US: An amazing sunset, al Fresco Dining OUR POLYNESIAN CUISINE AND SERVICE Address: Shop G-12-G15, Sheraton Tung Chung No 9 Yi Tung Road, Tung Chung, Lantau Tel: 2777 8980, 2777 8982 Email: info@cabanabreeze.hk

THE UPPER DECK WEEKEND SPECIALS: LIVE BAND FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 9 PM BRUNCH MENU AND FREE FLOW CONTACT INFO Shop 101, 1st Floor, T Bay, Tung Chung, No 9 Yi Tung Road, Lantau. +852 2757 8889 info@theupperdeck.hk

Christmas Takeaway Order Form 2021

Free Delivery within

Discovery Bay for orders exceeding

HK$2,000

Orders can be made between 15 November and 27 December 2021. Please complete this form and fax to us at 2295 8188, or e-mail to cafe@aubergediscoverybay.com. For enquiries, please call 2295 8299.

Price Quantity

Party Canapés Smoked Salmon Lemon Cream Cheese Bruschetta (Half Dozen)

HKD$158

Parma Ham and Melon Skewer (Half Dozen)

HKD$158

Salad (2kg) Seared Peppered Tuna Nicoise Salad

HKD$388

Chicken and Grape Waldorf Salad

HKD$388

Special Dishes Baked Macaroni with Ham and Mushroom Cream Sauce (2Kg)

HKD$388

Grilled Pork Sausage Spiral with Home-made Black Truffle Honey Mustard (1.5kg)

HKD$388

Festival Dishes Christmas Vegetable Platter Glazed Chestnut, Braised Red Cabbage, Vicky Carrot, French Bean, Sesame Roasted Sweet Potato

HKD$238

Christmas Glazed Boneless Ham with Honey Orange (2-2.5kg)

HKD$538

Christmas Roasted Whole Turkey with Port Wine Sauce (14-16lbs) Served with Chestnut Sausage Bread Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce

HKD$888

Dessert Christmas Stollen

HKD$168

Christmas Cup Cake (Half Dozen)

HKD$268

Christmas Yule Log (2lbs)

HKD$568

Guest name

Or

Contact number

Delivery date

E-mail

Delivery time

Self-collection date and time

Delivery address

11am — 1pm

1pm — 3pm

3pm — 6pm

I hereby authorise Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong to charge the agreed amount listed below to my credit card provided herein.

I agree that I will pay for this purchase in accordance with the issuing bank cardholder agreement.

Payment Method Total amount

HK$

Card type

VISA

Card Issuing Bank Master

Credit card number

Signature

Card holder’s name Expiry date MM/YY

Signature must correspond to the specimen signature of the above credit card account.

__ __ / __ __

Terms & conditions The above Christmas order cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotions or discount offers. Order has to be placed at least 48 hours in advance.

Full prepayment is required for order confirmation. No cancellation or refund will be accepted. Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong reserves the right of final decision in case of any dispute. In the event of supply difficulties, we reserve the right to substitute goods with equal quality and value.

Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong

T: (852) 2295 8288

F: (852) 2295 8188

88 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

E: enquiry@aubergediscoverybay.com

www.aubergediscoverybay.com

Founding Member of

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SIGN U P N OW A T IN FO@T HEBEA T .C OM . H K WW W.T HEB EA T. CO M . H K 57 21 3 00 0 @THEBEA TP REM IU MS TU D IOS

DECEMBER 2021 W W W. A R O U N D D B .CO M

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FEATURES 30

Profile The DBers in the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir

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Community A year of fun at DB Ice Rink and what to expect in 2022

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Fitness Sarah Hassall of Island Dance introduces AcroDance

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Parenting Tried-and tested cheats to simplify the silly season

51 ESCAPES Winter wonderland: Salzburg

61 RECIPES Spectacular holiday desserts

72 OUT THERE

Peter Sherwood talks back

20 WINTER CAMPS 24 EVENT ROUND-UP 28 GIVEAWAYS 66 CLASSIFIEDS 69 LOCAL NUMBERS

O N T H E C OVE R 18

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PHOTO BY Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

YOUR GUIDE TO HONG KONG’S ‘GREEN JEWEL’

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Thanks to the DB families who joined us at the Christmas Tree in DB Plaza to help create this fabulously festive December cover!

WE AL S O P UB L IS H AR

AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

At Bones & Blades

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10 DB EVENTS

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Learn to trade options! It’s a lot simpler than you think

40 DINING OUT

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Insider

AGENDA

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REGULARS

2019 / 2020

FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF FOOD & DRINK • LIVING • PETS • SPORTS • PASTIMES • EDUCATION • HEALTH • BEAUTY • SERVICES • TRAVEL & EXCURSIONS • COMMUNITY

CONTACT US @ B AY ME D IA GROU P P:

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P RI NTI NG

C H A MP I ON D ESIGN & P RODU CT I ON CO LTD Flat C & D, 9/F Sing Teck Factory Bldg, 44 Wong Chuk Hang Rd, Hong Kong

B AY M EDI A GRO UP

BROWNIES’ CHARITY SALE

DB Brownie Pack B is holding a Christmas Charity Sale on December 4, from 10am to 12 noon, in Siena Park. It’s a great place to pick up handmade Christmas decorations, handmade baked goods and pre-loved books and toys, with all proceeds going to WWF, Soap Cycling and the Conservancy Association. To donate books and toys, call 6301 5320.

PRESTIGE XMAS BAZAAR

Prestige Fairs is holding its annual Christmas bazaar on December 9 at the Grand Ballroom, Conrad Hong Kong. The lifestyle and gift fair has been running for 20+ years, and it features a range of pop-up shops with unique and unusual products, perfect for holiday gifting. Visit www.prestigefairs.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Prestige Fairs.]

s g in n e pp a H STUFF TO KNOW

ST NICHOLAS IS IN TOWN

One World Spirit Association has arranged for St Nicholas, the third-century Catholic saint who inspired the modern version of Santa Claus, to pay a visit to DB homes on December 5. Families with children aged two to six years old can sign up for a visit, and then prepare a small gift for St Nicholas to deliver when he knocks on their door. To enrol, WhatsApp 6219 3817, or fill the Google form at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxdoMZUlXt 0iSDhH5eFx5cmv83n9FP0PgSCc7_s8M0ipTqdA/viewform?usp=sf_ link. [PHOTO BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com.]

Flat 6E Elegance Court, Hillgrove Village, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island

D I S CL AIME R 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. © BAY MEDIA GROUP 2021

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CHURCH SERVICES

Discovery Bay Church is holding its annual Christingle Candlelighting service and Nativity play on December 24 at 6pm. You can celebrate the season of advent at the Nine Lessons and Carols service on December 5 at 10am, and ring in Christmas Day at the Family Eucharist service on December 25 at 10am. To get involved, visit www.discoverybaychurch.org.hk.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK: THE PANTO

For 2021, Hong Kong Players is performing Jack and the Beanstalk: THE PANTO, with shows running from December 3 to 12 at Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wanchai. Hong Kong Players’ longrunning festive tradition gathers performers and backstage crew members from across Hong Kong, and this year DB resident Matt King is playing the Dame. To book tickets, head to www.popticket.hk.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF Hong Kong Players.]

DB EVENTS

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GINGERBREAD DIY KITS

If Christmas 2021 is your year to bake gingerbread, check out Complete Deelite’s handy DIY kits – the Gingerbread Boy Cookie Kit and Gingerbread House Kit. Each kit contains easy-to-follow instructions and all the ingredients you need for a delicious, preservative-free treat. Shop at the store in Central, or online at www.completedeelite.com.

& Events!

TURKEY TAKEOUT

You can pre-order turkey and all the trimmings from Discovery Bay Recreation Club (club members get a discount) and some DB restaurants. The Auberge’s Christmas Takeaway looks like a particularly good bet with party canapes and salads, as well as festive mains and desserts. To place an order, visit www.dbrc.hk or email cafe@aubergediscoverybay.com.

IN DECEMBER! XMAS ON THE BEACH

It’s all happening on Pui O Beach this Christmas, with Treasure Island kicking off the festivities with its annual Christmas Market on December 5 from 12pm to 6pm. The Beach Club Restaurant & Bar is open December 24, 26 and 27 serving up a special Christmas Party Menu. Family camping, cabanas and water-sports rentals are available.

Visit www.treasureislandhk.com.

COUNTDOWN AT THE SHERATON

At Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung’s New Year’s Eve Countdown Party, you can enjoy live DJ sets on the rooftop of Sunset Grill.

The hotel’s New Year Staycation package (HK$3,000) includes admission for two to the countdown party, one night in a deluxe ocean view room and buffet breakfast at Café Lantau. To make a booking, head to www.sheratonhongkongtungchung.com.

HOLIDAY MARKETS

There are two Handmade Hong Kong Christmas Markets in DB Plaza this month, the first on December 12, the second on December 19, both running from 11am to 6pm. Gathering local merchants from all corners of Hong Kong, the markets showcase an array of goodies just waiting to be gifted, plus Christmas delicacies and decorations.

AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

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DB EVENTS

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LES BIRD’S NEW BOOK In his latest book, Along the Southern Boundary, former Marine Police of ficer Les Bird tells of the harrowing sea journey to Hong Kong made by tens of thousands of refugees in the years that followed the end of the Vietnam War. On December 10, 10 -year DB resident Les is giving a talk and presentation of stories and photographs from the book at Hemingway’s. Along the Southern Boundary and Les’ bestselling memoir, A Small Band Of Men, are available at bookshops throughout Hong Kong. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Les Bird.]

DMR DISNEYLAND PARADE

DB 10K RUN FOR CHARITY Head to Central Park, Siena One at 8am on December 4 to support participants in the 16th DB 10K Run for Charity. Sponsors include HKR, Tanner De Witt and Kapuhala, with local volunteers helping out on the day. This year’s proceeds go to Hong Kong charity RUN. Runners are requested to bring their own water bottle to enjoy free Brita-filtered water. To find out more, visit www.dbrunforcharity.com.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF Crystal Lee.]

DMR dancers are leading the parade at Hong Kong Disneyland on December 4. This is the sixth time since 2017 that DMR dancers have been invited to perform at the theme park, and residents are invited to show their support as they dance along Main Street. For more on DMR, now in DB North Plaza, visit www.dmr-hk.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF DMR].

MAISON LOMBARD HK: GUILT-FREE SNACKING FELIX & MINA FOR ADULTS TOO In DB Plaza for 10 months already, felix & mina is best known for its eco-friendly range of toys and own-brand sustainable kids clothing. What you may not know is that almost half of the products in the store – clothing, shoes, accessories and jewellery – are designed for adults. Free delivery and instore pick-up options are available if you prefer to shop online at www.felixandmina.com/shop. [PHOTO COURTESY OF felix & mina.]

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Eco-conscious, family-run business Maison Lombard HK sources and imports 100% raw superfoods (nuts, dried fruit and seeds) from South African farms. Its packaging is designed for optimal freshness and longevity and branded packs are available in different sizes. Products come in fully recyclable plastic packaging and have an eco-friendly, resealable opening. Place an order for free next day delivery at www.maisonlombard.com. To win a HK$1,000 voucher to spend at the online store, turn to page 28.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF Maison Lombard HK.]

DB EVENTS

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COMMUNITY FUNDRAISERS FOR ELLE WHITE

The community has come together to support fellow resident Elle White, who is currently battling cancer. Numerous fundraising events were held in November, including a fitness class led by Kristen Handford, a charity raffle at Hemingway’s organised by Victoria Baille and a Caperidge and Crestmont Community Bake Sale.

Elle and her husband Rob would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has donated and been in involved in fundraising events: “We feel so fortunate to be in a community as wonderful as DB during this difficult time in our lives.”

To support the Elle White Foundation, you can make a donation by searching Elle White on www.justgiving.com or take part in one of the many benefits planned for December (a few of which are listed below). [PHOTOS COURTESY OF Rob White & www.richardgordonphotography.com.]

ELLE WHITE CHRISTMAS CAMPAIGN

• Family Hike Fundraiser on December 5, organised by the Chile Chamber of Commerce. Contact Carlos at 5500 1261 • TI5 Cricket Tournament on December 4, 5, 11 and 12 at DB North Plaza Pitch, fielding four clubs, adultsonly – DB Smashers, Kai Tak, USRC and Pacific Basin.

(The Whites to be presented with a donation at the final on December 12.) Contact Michael Noonan at 6274 3247 • White Christmas Charity Football Tournament on December 11, 7am to 7pm, at DBIS Football Pitch.

(Up to 24 teams, adults-only, minimum HK$1,000 per team.) Contact Baz Brown on 9043 3095 • Live Music Show at Hemingway’s on December 11.

(Local bands and DBIS music talents from 5pm.)

Contact Ada Wong on 6129 2622 • Helper and Child Photography Promotion at Evoque Portraits throughout December. (Each session fee of HK$450 is donated to the Elle White Cancer Fund Foundation.) Contact Baljit Gidwani on evoqueaunties@gmail.com

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AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

DB EVENTS

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JOIN THE DB GIRL GUIDES AS A LEADER What do Kate Moss, JK Rowling, Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Michelle Obama all have in common? They are all proud to say they were Girl Guides (UK) or Girl Scouts (USA) in their youth.

Did you know Discovery Bay is home to a thriving Girl Guiding population? Now in their fourth year, Happy Bees, Brownies and Guides meet on Saturday mornings at Discovery College and are supported by a small group of volunteer leaders. Even with recent challenges the units have been making a dif ference with their community work, including charity fundraisers, beach clean-ups, letter writing to children in hospital and online English teaching for underprivileged children, together with first-aid training, Brownie revels, ukulele workshops, Guide day camps and of course, earning lots of badges.

These groups can only exist with the support of dedicated volunteer leaders from DB and beyond. The team currently comprises women from all over the world (UK, Canada, Sri Lanka, USA, India, Sweden) with a whole host of dif ferent interests including craf ts, outdoor activities, sports, leadership skills, cooking and music. With the transient nature of life at the moment, they are in need of more women to join the team to ensure that the girls can continue their Guiding journey.

Absolutely no previous experience is required as all training is provided, and there’s a network of leaders across Hong Kong to lean on and learn from. It’s also good to know that if you volunteer as a leader, your daughter is guaranteed a spot in a unit. There are few better ways of paying it forward to the next generation of young women than by volunteering with a unit of girls, here in DB. To get involved, visit www.dbbrownies.com or send an email to dbbrownies1@gmail.com. [PHOTOS BY Peggy Li.]

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SPONSORED CONTENT

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WHIMSICAL WONDERL AND 2021 @ DISCOVERY BAY

Christmas is just around the corner and the festive decorations are already in place across Discovery Bay encouraging all of us to get into the spirit of this most joyous of seasons.

This year, Discovery Bay has joined hands with upcoming local illustrator and designer Missquai to transform Discovery Bay into an extraordinary WHIMSICAL WONDERLAND complete with sparkling lights, playful pop-up displays and a towering eight-metre-tall Christmas tree.

We are invited on a merry Christmas adventure – WHIMSICAL WONDERLAND is ours to explore; somewhere we can hang out with friends and loved ones, and enjoy creating beautiful memories together. A rising talent who enjoys the little things in life, Missquai believes that design can make the world a better place, and her iconic Christmas displays and vibrant, hand-drawn illustrations achieve just that. Discovery Bay has never looked more magical!

From Christmas wreaths to sparkling lights, colourful garlands and more, festive decorations dot the path from Discovery Bay Pier to DB Plaza and D’Deck waterfront promenade. Unique light poles and ornaments make dining on D’Deck an enchanting 18

AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

other-worldly experience, while highlighting the chic Southern European vibe that’s unique to Discovery Bay. More captivating seasonal decorations embellish the coastal Love Locks Promenade, making it a wonderful destination for lovebirds.

Missquai believes that the pandemic has helped people get closer to one another and to cherish their time with friends and family. For this reason, WHIMSICAL WONDERLAND is a place for everyone to get together, put their worries aside and have some festive fun! The interactive pop-up displays are beautifully lit, so they can be enjoyed after dark as well as during the day, and they provide the perfect backdrop for photos that can be cherished for years to come.

There are photo-worthy displays dotted throughout the resort – gigantic mushrooms, poker cards and other larger-than-live whimsies in DB Plaza, plus of course the glorious eightmetre-tall Christmas tree. Over in DB North, inviting set-ups include a five-metre-tall ‘tea party set’ and another beautifully decorated Christmas tree.

WHIMSICAL WONDERLAND is yours to enjoy through January 2, 2022. Happy Holidays, everyone!

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Holiday Highlights SHOP AT THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS: There are two Sunday Christmas Markets in Discovery Bay this year (December 12 and 19) both running from 11am to 6pm in DB Plaza. Take a leisurely stroll, greet friends and neighbours and pick up some gorgeous last-minute Christmas gifts.

HANG OUT ON THE ICE: DB Ice Rink celebrates this Christmas with Monchhichi – endearing winter decorations are in place to help guests enjoy the beauty of the season on the ice. DB Ice Rink is presenting a series of festive events in December to celebrate its first Christmas! Check out the Christmas Figure-Skating Shows, performed by the skating school’s coaches and students (December 18 and 19); Photo Time with Santa Claus (December 25); ‘Busking on the Ice’ (December 24 and 25), Christmas IceHockey Tournaments (December 27 to 30) and New Year’s Eve Skating Countdown Party (December 31).

ENJOY UNMISSABLE REWARDS: From now until

January 2, 2022, upon same-day spending of HK$500 or above (maximum two receipts) at designated Discovery Bay F&B and/ or retail outlet(s) by electronic transaction, you can redeem one HK$50 Dining Voucher and one HK$50 Shopping Voucher. Available on a first-come-first basis while stocks last, at the Concierge in DB Plaza from 12 noon to 9.30pm.

Email: explore@visitdbay.com Facebook: @VisitDiscoveryBay Instagram: @visitdiscoverybay Website: www.visitdiscoverybay.com

AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

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ISLAND DANCE

CHESS

ART

ACRODANCE CHOCO

STUDIO

www.islanddance.com.hk

w w w. c h o c o l a r t . c o m . h k

Island Dance is introducing new AcroDance classes at Discovery Bay Recreation Club. Bringing a fusion of dance techniques and acrobatics, AcroDance gained popularity with the success of Cirque du Soleil. Classes, for kids aged 4 and above, are taught

by Acrobatic Arts instructor Sarah Hassall on Thursdays and Fridays.

Choco LʼArt Studioʼs one- to four-day winter camps, for children aged 3 to 15, run from December 15 to January 5 in Central and Wanchai.

Children choose from different mediums such as watercolour, acrylic and pastels, with oil painting for kids aged 13+. Thereʼs sketching in pencil and charcoal for younger kids, plus crafts (clay and mosaic). All activities are guided by trained instructors.

Tel: 2987 1571 Email: dance@islanddance.com.hk

Tel: 6695 1161 Email: info@chocolart.com.hk

CAISSA HONG KONG www.caissahk.org Caissa Hong Kong Chess Club is running three five-day winter camps from December 20 to 24 – an alllevels camp in DB Plaza and two camps in Sheung Wan for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels.

Led by FIDE certified trainers, the 15-hour intensive camps are action packed, and both fun and serious.

Kids, aged 6 to 16, learn tactics, strategy and more.

Tel: 6938 7603 Email: contact@caissahk.com

DMR

HK DRA

FC

HAPPY NEWS EDU

www.dmr-hk.com

www.dragons.hk

@happynewsedu

DMR is running a four-day dance camp in DB North Plaza from December 20 to 23. This choreography camp allows dancers, aged 6 to 12, to get creative with costume, prop and scenery design, as well as choreography and some acting. New this year, thereʼs also a mini-dance camp for dancers, aged 3 to 5, to learn new styles and fun movements.

HK Dragons FCʼs winter camps, for children aged 4 to 15, run from December 20 to 24 and December 27 to 31. The five-day camps are led by experienced coaches and are open to players of all abilities.

Fun training sessions in DB and Pui O are based on daily themes like dribbling, passing, receiving, finishing and possession.

Happy News EDUʼs winter holiday programmes run from December 20 to 23, December 28 to 30 and January 3 to 7 in DB North Plaza. Classes for children aged 5+ and 8+ are based on the LEGO Education programme and approach (4C approach) that focuses on robotics and coding. During term time, classes are held on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

WhatsApp: 5210 7208 Email: info@dmr-hk.com

Tel: 6417 3303

WhatApp: 6360 1715 Email: happynewsdsg@gmail.com

Email:

OUTDOOR

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS

ARK EDEN w ww.marcguyon.hk

www.arkedenonlantau.org

Fight Club is running three sports club experiences, each comprising five half days, from December 12 to 31 in its one-of-akind DB gym. Youths, aged 5 to 15, get to hone their skills in boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, wrestling, MMA and selfdefence. Daily training comprises warm-up, conditioning games, skills practice and downtime.

Ark Edenʼs camps develop childrenʼs confidence and love of the outdoors.

Children, aged 5 to 11, spend time in the foothills of Mui Wo camping in tents under the moon, cooking tribal feasts, building dens and so much more. The winter camps, running from December 20 to 24 and December 27 to 31, are designed to reconnect kids with nature and increase their eco awareness.

Tel: 9688 4744

Tel: 2988 5355

TREASURE ISL AND www.treasureislandhk.com Treasure Islandʼs five-day Christmas Adventure Camps run for three weeks, from December 13 to 31 at Pui O Beach.

Kids, aged 5 to 16, enjoy various outdoor activities like kayaking, gorging, raft building and hiking. Lunch and snacks are included, plus one overnight under canvas for adventurers aged 7+.

Camp leaders aim to develop kidsʼ leadership, equipment management and self-organisational skills.

Tel: 5236 7016 Email: enquires@treasureisland.com.hk

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Dump Less, Save More, Love DB!

NEW PILOT SCHEME IN DB

FOR FOOD WASTE COLLECTION

KNOW MORE & ENROL NOW!

COMMUNITY MISSION Discovery Bay Services Management Ltd (City Management) is pleased to launch a new pilot scheme for food waste collection with the support of the Environmental Protection Department (EPD). The scheme has been in place since December 1, 2021 and all residential units in DB are invited to participate.

With the support of City Owners’ Committee, 49 designated purple bins for collecting domestic food waste have been placed in 17 villages in DB. The food waste collection bins are leak-proof, impervious to moisture and fitted with lids that close tightly and securely.

The EPD will collect domestic food waste on a daily basis from DB and transport it to O•PARK1 in Siu Ho Wan (Hong Kong’s first organic resources recovery centre) for recycling. The aim is to have 1,000 kilogrammes of food waste collected per day.

Let’s work together to reduce waste generation and create a greener living place for the DB community!

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THE MORE THE MERRIER! Food Waste Collection 1,000kg/ day

! t u o b A & t u O WHAT YOU'VE BEEN UP TO!

EVENT ROUND-UP

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HALLOWEEN ON HEADLAND DRIVE PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

Life felt normal again on October 30, with ghouls and goblins, witches and warlocks trick or treating on Headland Drive.

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EVENT ROUND-UP

AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

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EVENT ROUND-UP

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LBC PINK DAY

PHOTOS BY Nigel Baillie Photography

To show support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Lantau Boat Club (LBC) held a Pink Day on October 30 raising HK$55,680 for the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation. There was fun on the water, a Pink Beach Village market, and a pink event shirt to wear on the day.

FRIGHT NIGHTS AT EPICLAND PHOTOS COURTESY OF EpicLand

Every weekend in October, there was a spooky lights-out Halloween theme at EpicLand in DB North Plaza, and from October 16 to 31, kids had the chance to play Haunted House Laser Tag.

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GIVEAWAYS

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YIFAN MANDARIN IS OFFERING TWO YOUNG READERS (3 TO 5 YEARS) A CHRISTMAS CAMP PASS (EACH WORTH HK$530) Yifan Mandarin’s half-day Christmas camps run from December 20 to 31 in DB North Plaza. Kids, aged 3 to 9, are taught exclusively in Mandarin, and can choose from various fun, immersive activities including moss-terrarium making, clay sculpture, mochi making and STEM projects.

Yifan Mandarin specialises in teaching Mandarin as a second language to children. Its mission is to provide professional Mandarin learning options for students who do not have enough exposure to the language in their daily life. To find out more, call 2486 9012 or email learn@yifanmandarin.com.

MAISON LOMBARD HK IS OFFERING ONE READER A GIFT VOUCHER WORTH (HK$1,000)

Maison Lombard HK sources and impor ts its 100% natural and organic nuts, dried fruits and seeds from farming communities in South Africa. The nuts and seeds are not roasted or salted and the dried fruit is sugar-free, sulphur-free and colourant-free.

Nine years in Hong Kong and four in DB, Maison Lombard HK is a family-run business rooted in the Cape Winelands since 1688. Maison Lombard HK of fers free next day deliver y to DB from its online store. To place an order, visit www.maisonlombard.com.

HOUNDS OF HONG KONG IS OFFERING ONE READER A 30-MINUTE OUTDOOR SHOOT FOR ONE DOG (WORTH HK$800) Hounds of Hong Kong is offering a special 30-minute outdoor shoot for one dog in either DB, Mui Wo or Peng Chau. One fully edited, web-ready digital jpeg is included, plus the option to purchase printed artwork from the session at a 10% discount.

Founded by Frankie Adamson, a British photographer specialising in dog portraiture, Hounds of Hong Kong offers bespoke experiences complete with planning meetings and shoot advice. Frankie focuses on capturing portraits of dogs with the aim of creating lasting and impactful wall art. To find out more or book a session, visit www.houndsofhongkong.com.

CONGRATUL ATIONS TO L AST ISSUE’S WINNER

Candice Cheng for a HK$500 gift voucher to spend at She Creates Stories

HOW TO WIN!

Around DB prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until the 10th of the month to apply.

Simply scan the barcode or go to www.arounddb.com/giveaways, select the giveaway you want, and enter your details into the online form.

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PROFILE

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PROFILE

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THE BOYS ARE BACK

The DBers in the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir sit down with Elizabeth Kerr for a muchneeded, socially distanced catch-up and to discuss plans for the holiday season PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

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n meeting up with the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir (HKWMVC) in early November a distinct sense of déjà vu descends. We meet in a Starbucks tucked away in a busy office tower again – this time at the Hopewell Centre in Wanchai, before the short walk to the choir’s rehearsal space, currently inside the Methodist International Church on Queen’s Road East.

In truth the similarity ends there, because this time de facto PR director Neil Juggins, in-house dispenser of amusingly dry anecdotes Dennis Wan, and one-time toy guru Richard Crosbie are joined by new members Simon Li and Gil De Clercq, Bernard Murphy, who missed the confab in 2018, and 33-year veteran John Walsh – an interloper who lives in Kowloon. The boys – and they’re buzzing like school kids, so boys it is – have commandeered the entire bench on the café’s left side and occupy four socially distanced tables for two. A girl could get used to having seven dudes demanding her attention.

But the members of the HKWMVC (www.hkwmvc.com) are perfect gentlemen, and for the first time in 18 months their rehearsals are working towards actual public performances for the Christmas season. Gigs already lined up include the tree lighting at Taiko Place on December 2, Light Up A Life concert to support hospice care at St John’s Cathedral on December 7 and a season-closing four shows at The Peninsula starting on December 18.

None of which precludes them acting like a bunch of kids hanging out after class. To be fair it has been 18 months of isolated Zoom rehearsals. The choir’s making up for lost time, but the camaraderie clearly hasn’t vanished.

Conversation bobs and weaves and comes back around, and there’s a lot of joking.

PRINCES OF WALES Asked if he was nervous for his first performance in front of his wife and children, and Gil throws out a deadpan, “I was nervous they wouldn’t be quiet.” Bernard laments his poor second language skills, pointing at Simon with a vaguely accusing, “But at least he speaks Welsh!” To that, Simon comes back with a panicked, “I’ve got two thick books of songs to learn, just for the Christmas stuff.” For his part

The Christmas slate adds new dates every few days, proving Hongkongers are looking forward to hearing Welsh voices at year’s end Richard is just happy that Gil and Simon “are helping to bring the average age of the choir down.”

At some point everyone pauses long enough for Dennis to launch into a twisty story about his uncle A-suk (a fellow choir member), his grandmother, a neighbour’s daughters and, ultimately, A-suk’s poor recruiting techniques. “My point is my uncle is the worst recruiter in the world; he’s the close the deal guy. The day after my first visit he’s going hard, calling, texting. ‘Are you joining?’ Which goes to another point: We are recruiting.”

Indeed they are. Things have changed since 2018. For starters long-time member Patrick Budden, and several others, left Hong Kong. “We’ve lost a lot of members for various reasons, and we are losing people because of the long quarantine,” laments Neil. He himself gave up equity analysis for education when his small bank’s business dried up due to COVID and his young son was learning online. After helping out, he decided to retrain as a [primary] teacher and is currently doing his PGCE. “I’m completely mad,” he says with a chuckle.

“It’s exhausting. They never stop. But I am loving it.”

For his part Richard moved out of toy design – he had been working with Toys R Us in the US – and into art (watch this space). Dennis is taking a much-needed break from investment banking after two straight years of chaos.

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A WALES OF A TIME Neil et al’s arrival at the Methodist International Church brings the total number at practice to around 30. A-suk is here; Simon and Gil settle into their spots after some social milling about. English composer and former University of Warwick music director Colin Touchin is still conducting, and it’s a matter of seconds for him to make the schoolboy vibe evaporate.

The choir sounds remarkably clear though their masks as Colin puts them through their paces. “Baritones!

Tenors! Let’s try that one more time,” and “Everyone stand, please.”

THE HKWMVC AT DB’S THREE SHEETS IN OCTOBER

But the news isn’t all grim. Richard claims the choir has made up the departures with new members, like Simon and Gil. Simon has been in Hong Kong 11 years and is one of the choir’s few actual Welsh speakers, which he admits came through ulterior motives. “This is a weird story,” he begins. “Another one!” Neil interjects, but Simon is uncowed. The UK-born filmmaker explains how a friend of his Welsh wife’s father invited them boating one day, and he and Simon’s future wife randomly broke out into a few Welsh songs. He was an HKWMVC member, and in an effort to be a good fiancé Simon contacted the choir and had about 40 show up at Pier 8 on their wedding day.

The HKWMVC runs through a couple of tunes from its Christmas programme – Deck the Hall, In the Bleak Midwinter and a rousing When a Child is Born.

There’s no time for Abba these days. Bookings for performances are trickling back in as fast as possible given ongoing restrictions, and the boys in the band are already looking ahead to 2022. The Christmas slate adds new dates every few days, proving Hongkongers are looking forward to hearing Welsh voices at year’s end.

Dennis sums it up best. After missing two years of choir to work he found stepping into a performance at DB’s Three Sheets in October (the choir’s first show post-COVID) like riding a bike. “I was resistant.

I hadn’t done this in two years. No way was it going to work. Oddly enough all the Welsh stuff just came flooding back. The English stuff? I had no clue. But the Welsh songs stuck,” he finishes. “Because they’re so beautiful.”

“They sang for us before we got on a junk. She thought it was a rugby team. It was a great son-in-law flex.” All kidding aside, Simon’s enjoyed his first week in the HKWMVC. “I’m really struck by how welcoming everyone is,” he says.

Animal nutritionist Gil’s road to the HKWMVC isn’t as serendipitous. He followed his banker wife to Hong Kong from their home in Belgium, and it was she who saw the choir and suggested he look them up. That was almost four years ago when the couple relocated. “It took me two years to send an email to the committee. I was still travelling at that time, but this past year was a good time to start. I was here, and had the time to commit to practice,” he says.

Newcomer or veteran, the one commonality at all four tables is a genuine love of singing. Bernard came to Hong Kong in 1992 with the British army’s medical corps before he segued into law. A healthcare solicitor living in DB for 16 years and a choir member since 2014, Bernard’s connection came through John; both were previously in The Hong Kong Singers. “He told me he also sang in the Welsh choir and I should come along. So I put it in my diary and about 25 years later I finally turned up for a rehearsal. But it’s a delight, and I wish I had joined earlier,” Bernard says.

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NEIL JUGGINS, RICHARD CROSBIE, BERNARD MURPHY, DENNIS WAN AND GIL DE CLERCQ

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! s e d a p a C Ice AT THE RINK

A state-of-the-art facility designed to nurture excellence in ice sports, while providing a new and unique entertainment venue for residents, DB Ice Rink gets our vote!

REPORTING BY Rachel Sadler PHOTOS COURTESY OF DB Ice Rink

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COMMUNITY

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he ice-rink-in-a-mall formula has been proven to work in Hong Kong, and Discovery Bay’s latest attraction – an international-standard, indoor ice rink in DB Plaza – is no exception. Opened in May this year, DB Ice Rink is both a brand-new sports venue and a much-needed recreational hub – a welcome addition to the community.

In addition to the leisure-skating sessions, a series of special community-led events and themed nights have appealed directly to residents. There’s also the skating school, providing training for all levels in figure skating and ice hockey, plus a regular lineup of performances, competitions and ice-hockey tournaments – all delivered in line with the strictest social distancing protocols.

CHINA HOCKEY GROUP TOURNAMENTS

“Residents have welcomed the opening of a new world-class ice rink in DB,” opens Raul Gomes Senior Manager at DB Ice Rink. “We’ve received an overwhelming response from people who want to enrol in our classes and skate in the public sessions.”

COMMUNITY EVENTS From the outset, DB Ice Rink has positioned itself as a community hub, somewhere for residents to build their skating skills and most importantly have fun.

One of the first initiatives, back in May, was a series of free figure-skating performances put on by DB Ice Rink coaches to inspire everyone onto the ice.

Residents-only skating nights have also proved extremely popular with DBers of all ages. “Being part of the DB community, we want to offer something special for DB residents,” says Raul. “Since September, we have organised skating nights for residents at a special discount.” The next residentsonly skate night is scheduled for December 10.

The first themed night at DB Ice Rink was held over Halloween weekend, and it was a huge success, complete with scary decorations, trick-or-treating staff and an Instagram-based best-dressed competition. The evening session on October 30 was a skate in the dark party, with glow paints provided.

FIGURE SKATING PERFORMANCES

“It was a fun night and we had a good attendance,” says Raul. “Participants dressed up as different characters to join the Spooky Halloween Skating Party and the kids were very excited with the face painting, trick or treating and giveaways. For the best-dressed competition on social media, we received many stunning photos and it was not easy for us to pick the winner.

“The positive response from residents encouraged us to continue this initiative and organise more themed nights in the future,” adds Raul. “This holiday season, we have decided to partner with Japanese cartoon character Monchhichi to present the first Monchhichi-themed ice rink in Hong Kong.”

DB Ice Rink’s first Christmas programme is in fact packed with fun activities. There’s a Christmas Figure-Skating Show, performed by the skating school’s coaches and students (December 18 and 19); Busking on the Ice (December 24 and 25); a Meet with Santa Claus photo opportunity on December 25; a China Hockey Group Ice Hockey Tournament (December 27 to 30); and a Skating Countdown Party (December 31).

REGULAR THEMED NIGHTS

“At the Christmas Figure-Skating Show, our coaches will perform together with the students, showcasing the talents of our skating school,” says Raul. The show’s uptake has surpassed expectations with around 200 students expected to perform together with their coaches and special guest skaters from the Hong Kong National Team.

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COMMUNITY

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FIGURE-SKATING CLASSES Diverse programmes, designed for figure skaters of all levels, are on offer at DB Ice Rink’s skating school – and Raul says the response from those looking to enrol has been fantastic, particularly among DB residents.

“Currently, we have a waiting list of over 400 students waiting for the schedule to free up so that they can join our classes. Over 80% of our students are DB residents.”

Harry Lee, a six-time Hong Kong champion figure skater (former world ranking 130), heads up a team of four professional ice-skating coaches at the skating school.

Classes follow Ice Skating Institute Asia guidelines, taking skaters from beginner to competition level.

Kids can start their training aged three, with coaches focusing on fun, technique and stamina. Semi-private, private and walk-in classes are available.

“The semi-private classes are the most popular as many people like to learn skating with friends or family,” Raul says. “Many adults have enrolled in our skating classes and many are enrolled in our Christmas show too.”

ICE SPORTS As part of its bid to support the development of ice sports in Hong Kong, DB Ice Rink has partnered with the China Hockey Group (CHG). Now in its third year, CHG is at the centre of growth driving ice hockey forward in the region.

“Our goal is to create a world-class venue for international competitions, such as ice-hockey tournaments. Therefore, we decided to partner with China Hockey Group, which champions a number of hockey initiatives,” Raul explains.

“We are excited that the CIHL Division 1 League, Division 2 League and Women’s League will be held at DB Ice Rink next season. We will be hosting the CIHL finals in April 2022, and the Greater Bay Championship in May 2022.”

CHG now provides training programmes at DB Ice Rink, with the aim to nurture young talent and prepare players to compete at a high level. “China Hockey Group’s Junior Tiger programme offers various training sessions, leagues, camps and tournaments throughout the season, catering to children of all ages and abilities,” says Raul.

DB Ice Rink is now also home to non-profit communitybased ice-hockey team the DBees, who previously had to commute to Kowloon to train.

“In June, as part of our commitment to develop local icehockey talent, we offered four, free sessions to the DBees to help them recruit new members,” Raul says. “After the four sessions their membership quadrupled, and they are now training here twice a week.

“The state-of-the-art facilities offered by DB Ice Rink create an inclusive environment for players to learn and develop their skills and potential,” adds Raul. “DBees’ Founder Stuart Winchester is a highly respected coach.

He is committed to developing serious talent in DB.” Children as young as four can join the DBees, and young players compete in CHG’s Junior Tiger programme. While the majority of the DBees players are aged five to 14, juniors transition into the DBees’ adult league once they turn 18.

In November, the DB Curling Club also started practicing at DB Ice Rink, and Raul is expecting more collaboration with the team in the future.

Looking ahead to 2022, Raul says nurturing young talent will remain a top priority, as will providing an exciting programme of recreational activities for both residents and visitors. “We will continue to organise different themed nights, professional figure-skating contests, and local and international ice-hockey tournaments,” he says.

“We are working with different partners and wish to bring more sport-related events to DB Ice Rink next year.”

DBEES’ SCRIMMAGE

HEAD COACH HARRY LEE 38

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DB Ice Rink is open from 10am to 9pm Monday to Friday and from 10am to 10pm at the weekends.

To find out more, visit www.dbicerink.com, and follow @db.icerink on FB/ IG

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DINING OUT

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! th on M e th f o t n Restaura BONES & BLADES REPORTING BY Rachel Sadler PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon – www.richardgordonphotography.com

F

ollowing up on its success in Sai Ying Pun, Sai Kung and Yuen Long, Bones & Blades opened in DB Plaza in February this year. The combined butcher shop-restaurant concept has proved a real hit locally not least because it’s a place for foodies to ask questions and learn more about the quality produce on offer.

“The concept of buying meat from a butcher was slowly dying out but people enjoy the social side and the interaction with butchers, that’s why I knew Bones & Blades would be a success,” opens COO and Founder Andre L’Herminier.

THE BUTCHER SHOP At Bones & Blades the focus is on well sourced products imported chilled from small, family-owned farms across the globe. Andre has plenty of tips for conscious carnivores who want to bring home quality meat, starting with the associated price tags – “premium cut, 40

AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

premium price!” – but he does in fact provide plenty of delicious cuts to suit every wallet.

Most of Bones & Blades’ meats are ‘pure natural’ and not all of them have the organic label. “You are what you eat, and you are better off buying less meat of better quality; people are now being fooled by the word organic and should start looking for a purer and more natural approach,” Andre says. “Animals are meant to graze on grass, so we keep grass-fed as our main product but have a few other items to accommodate our customers’ demands.”

Bones & Blades is popular for its meats and cheeses but also for its homemade items like lasagnes, freshly baked pies, 24-hour simmered bone broths, country style patés and sensational sauces.

If you’re planning on entertaining at home, items can be prepped in the shop to make them look pretty and presentable. “We’re so used to seeing prepacked food in supermarkets, that we forget about nice things like beef roasts or a leg of lamb to enjoy amongst family and friends,” says Andre.

DINING OUT

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THE RESTAURANT The meals in the restaurant are prepared using the high-quality meats and homemade items on offer in the butcher shop. Bones & Blades beefburgers are one of its bestsellers, prepared daily for maximum freshness, and there are four other burger choices on the menu: Buttermilk Chicken, BBQ Pulled Pork, Lamb Merguez and Veggie Mushroom. “Our burgers are really tasty,” Andre says. “I believe in keeping things simple – we don’t overload them with too much rubbish, so you can enjoy the full flavours of the meats.”

Andre goes on to highlight Bones & Blades’ signature beef tar tar, heritage chicken liver paté and pork belly bites. There are over eight cuts of grass-fed steak, plus cuts of pork and lamb to satisfy your meatiest expectations.

On weekdays, Bones & Blades has a set lunch on offer, with a special that changes ever y two months, and from 6pm onwards there are some great promotions, like Friday’s Prosecco Countdown – the first glass of prosecco is 30 dollars, the next one is two dollars cheaper and so on from there, until it’s on the house.

CHOOSE FROM OVER EIGHT CUTS OF GRASS-FED STEAK

With the Cooked Turkey Package for six, you get free-range KellyBronze turkey impor ted from the UK, plus all the trimmings (gravy, mash and veggies). Alternatively, if you’re a dab hand in the kitchen, order the raw version from the butcher shop, which comes oven-ready with cooking instructions and a vegetable stuffing mix.

Another sure-fire Christmas crowd-pleaser? Hot Smoked Honey Ham glazed with maple syrup – ready to eat, you just need to reheat.

THE CATERING MENU Bones & Blades’ catering menu is extensive, and you can book five days in advance for par ties and events with a minimum spend of HK$2,000.

In the lead-up to Christmas, the seasonal menu looks to be a real cracker and again, there are plenty of catering options available if you’re planning on enter taining at home.

THE BEEFBURGERS ARE A BESTSELLER

YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBOURHOOD BUTCHER

Bones & Blades in DB Plaza is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

Call the butcher shop on 2383 0683, call the restaurant on 2383 0792 . To place an order, WhatsApp 5200 3952 . To find out more, visit www.bonesandblades.com.

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During the holiday season, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our success possible. It is in this spirit that we say thank you and send best wishes for the holidays.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

JEAN-FRANCOIS HARVEY Worldwide Managing Partner

! s k c i r T & s n r u T WINNING COMBO

FITNESS

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If you love Cirque de Soleil, you already love AcroDance.

Certified instructor Sarah Hassall of Island Dance takes Rachel Sadler centre stage

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com

ACRODANCE COMBINES ACROBATIC SKILLS AND DANCE ELEMENTS, relying on seamless transitions to create dramatic and highly energetic routines. Defined by its athletic character and unique choreography, it is a popular dance style in amateur competitive dance as well as in professional dance theatre, notably Cirque du Soleil.

THE ACROBATIC SKILLS (OR TRICKS) in AcroDance are centred around strength, flexibility, limbering and tumbling. Limbering can include skills such as bridge variations, scorpions and needles, while tumbling can include handstands, cartwheels, walkovers and aerials.

THE DANCE MOVEMENTS IN ACRODANCE

are founded in ballet, jazz, lyrical and modern dance styles. A routine must have a significant percentage of dance movement, with respect to its acrobatic content, in order for it to be categorised as AcroDance. Pirouettes, leaps and piques are all popular and highly expressive moves.

A GOOD ACRODANCER HAS A LOT OF STRENGTH AND FLEXIBILITY.

Determination is another good trait to have for AcroDance.

Showing up to class with a willingness to progress and the motivation to push yourself are important if you are to succeed.

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ACRODANCERS PERFORM BOTH SOLO AND IN PAIRS OR GROUPS. Training promotes team building skills, while

encouraging dancers to express themselves and feel confident.

AcroDance brings about a sense of achievement and its structure instils discipline.

DANCERS AS YOUNG AS FOUR can learn AcroDance.

At this age, children generally have a good enough attention span and can better understand the safety element. AcroDance requires dancers of similar abilities to be taught in the same class, so dancers are placed according to their ability and not by age.

WORKOUTS ALWAYS STARTS WITH CARDIO,

followed by strength exercises, such as the plank and handstands, before moving on to flexibility training.

AcroDancers can benefit from par ticipation in various other spor ts – boxing and rugby help with strength and fitness, gymnastics improves flexibility.

SAFETY IS PARAMOUNT

and for this reason, classes are limited to 10 dancers. To teach AcroDance, you need quick reac tions and good spotting skills to suppor t dancers’ safety when prac tising acrobatic elements.

ACRODANCE PUTS YOU IN THE MOMENT. It’s an escape, allowing you to feel safe and work towards a goal. Dance in general is good for mental health and anything to do with fitness. Working and per forming with music is a great way to have fun and let go of outside stress.

Island Dance now offers AcroDance classes at the Discovery Bay Recreation Club. Classes, for kids aged 4 and up, are taught by certified AcroDance instructor Sarah Hassall on Thursdays and Fridays.

To find out more, email info@islanddance.com.hk or visit www.islanddance.com.hk.

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! y s a E e d a M s a Xm

SIMPLIFY THE SILLY SEASON!

Kate Farr hacks the hassle out of choosing a tree, decking the halls and serving up a gourmet Christmas lunch PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels

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hristmas in Hong Kong can be a magical time of year. It can also be a frankly stressful one, with food, decorations and gifts to arrange… that’s before you even start thinking how to fill the school holidays. Here are a few helpful hints to making the festive season fun and hassle-free this year.

TRIM THE TREE One of the biggest Hong Kong Christmas dilemmas comes from choosing a tree. While many swear that nothing compares to the scent of a real spruce, others cite environmental concerns (not to mention all those spiky needles) as a reason to fake it through the festive season. Whether you’re on team real or team reusable, there are a few crafty shortcuts to make your tree a towering success.

Order your real tree well in advance to avoid disappointment; they tend to get snapped up quickly from the beginning of December. Look for Nordmann Firs – a special breed that not only has softer needles, but also sheds less as it dries out, making it a friendlier option for those with young kids or pets. Don’t forget accessories such as tree stands and wreaths; Garden Plus in Mui Wo stocks everything you need, along with the ultimate in convenience – a removal service. Keep the tree in a cool and draughty spot to minimise the needle fall.

If you prefer plastic and its shed-free durability, then City’super’s luxury artificial trees will see you through year after year. Failing that, good old Japan Home Centre (JHC) has an abundance of cheap and very cheerful trees – you can also find every possible permutation of lights and tinsel here for pocket-change prices. Missing the authentic scent of the season? Splash out on a few scented candles (in pine, cinnamon and winterberry) that will more than compensate for the lack of puncture marks in your feet.

PARENTING

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LOOK FOR NORDMANN FIRS – A SPECIAL BREED THAT NOT ONLY HAS SOFTER NEEDLES BUT ALSO SHEDS LESS AS IT DRIES OUT DECK THE HALLS Aside from the aforementioned JHC tinselfest, Christmas decor opens up all kinds of opportunities for young kids to get crafty with an abundance of glitter glue, pipe-cleaners and felt.

If they’ve brought home sackfuls of art projects from school, consider collating them all into an artwork print – a beautiful personalised memento which you can bring out for years to come.

ENCOURAGE KIDS TO HELP WITH THE HOLIDAY DECORATING

For little ones who want to get hands-on, empty yoghurt pots can be decorated with Christmassy stickers – poke a small hole in the base and hang a button for an instant ‘bell.’ Spray pinecones in gold or silver and make strings of gingerbread men – a couple of coats of varnish will make them last for years to come. Store everything away safely for next year in empty egg boxes and wind Christmas lights around a coat hanger to keep them tangle-free.

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PARENTING

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DARE TO BE DIFFERENT No doubt, Christmas is a time for sharing gifts with our nearest and dearest; but in our eagerness to treat our loved ones to something special, it can be easy to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas.

How about trying a few festive alternatives that put over-consumption firmly back in its box?

Begin by asking questions such as ‘What do the children have?’ ‘What do they need?’ and ‘What is our financial situation like?’ Once you have those answers, it’s easier to decide on – and stick to – a budget for gifts.

MAKE TIME FOR FUN BY ORDERING TURKEY TAKEOUT

WINING AND DINING Craving an old-fashioned Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, but stuck with a tiny Hong Kong-sized kitchen? Before you Google ‘how to microwave a 21lb turkey,’ don’t panic – there are always crafty cheats to ensure that both your dinner, and more importantly, you, are beautifully presented on the big day.

The ultimate hack is, of course, to forgo slaving away in the kitchen altogether and head out for Christmas lunch. However, if your big day wouldn’t be complete without a heated debate over the gravy boat, then you can pre-order turkey and all the trimmings from Discovery Bay Recreation Club (club members get a discount) and some DB restaurants. The Auberge’s Christmas Takeaway looks like a particularly good bet with party canapes and salads, as well as festive mains and desserts available through December 27.

Another trick worth employing when it comes to Christmas shopping for children comes in the form of an easy mantra: “Something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read.” This leaves plenty of scope for practical gifting with a few treats that will be genuinely well-received.

Give simple stockings filled with small gifts including things like a piece of fruit… try something different. If you refuse to buy into the societal pressure of having to have a ‘perfect’ Christmas, you can relax and enjoy the time together, while reminding children what Christmas is about, according to your own philosophy.

And if you’re looking for alternatives to the traditional avalanche of gifts in favour of making lasting memories, the options are endless: Decorate your apartment and Christmas tree together, involve the kids in Christmas dinner preparation, head to festive events such as carol services or theatre shows as a family, do something for charity or take a special family outing.

And what’s Christmas without a tipple or two?

Watson’s Wine right here in the South Plaza is offering discounts on champagne and wine throughout the holiday season, and Two More Glasses delivers for free in Discovery Bay for orders over HK$1,200.

Forgotten to stock the fridge and have guests arriving? You can speed-chill your drinks in one of two ingenious ways. The first is to wet a tea towel, wrap it around your bottle and then place it in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes. The cold travels faster through water than through air, resulting in a nicely icy bottle. The second is to fill an ice bucket (or at a pinch, a washing up bowl) with water and ice, then add a generous handful of salt. Salt water chills your drink considerably faster than fresh water, leaving you ready to pour in record time.

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FOCUS ON WHAT YOUR KIDS LIKE DOING BEST

clothing | accessories | footwear

~ J.H Pilates

SHOP WITH US FOR FEMININITY & FUN

5205 3736 WE SOURCE STYLISH CLOTHING FROM AUSTRALIA Embody Studio FOR STYLISH Plaza Lane, Room 225 WOMEN IN HONG KONG Discovery Bay

9166 8077

www.shecreatesstories.com

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She Creates Stories

Quality Frozen Meat dondonshop.com

WINE BROTHERS HP AD

Let us help you take care of your family. enquiry@profwills.com +(852) 2561 9031

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Adding sparkle and wonder to inquisitive minds through creativity, exploration, observation, life skills and outdoor learning.

Playgroup - for little ones from 18 months old 2 years old

Drop off Stepping Stones classes for 2-3 year olds

Pre-School K1, K2 & K3 3-6 year olds

enquiry.db@sunshinehouse.hk | www.sunshinehouse.hk / 2185-6134

ESCAPES

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SALZBURG CHRISTKINDLMARKT IS ONE OF THE MERRIEST

and oldest Christmas markets in the world. An annual event in Cathedral Square since way back in the 15th century, it’s all about nostalgia for Christmases past. Treat yourself to mulled wine and stollen as you shop, and then go for a spin on the outdoor ice rink.

! l e v a r t r i mcha r A A TRULY COOL YULE Feeling nostalgic for Christmases past in Salzburg

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Sarah Muirhead & Unsplash

WITH ITS MIGHTY DOME AND MARBLE FACADE, SALZBURG CATHEDRAL (Salzburger Dom) is an impressive tribute to the early baroque. The three gates stand for Faith, Love and Hope, with the middle gate (for Love) somewhat larger. The seven bells also have names, ranging from Salvator (the biggest) to Barbara (the smallest).

HOME TO APPLE STRUDEL,

The Sound of Music and Mozart, Salzburg really is the perfect place for a Christmas vacation. Stay in the old town, with its beautifully preserved baroque architecture backed by the snow-capped Austrian Alps.

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ESCAPES

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WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART WAS BORN

in 1756 at the Hagenauer Haus on Getreidegasse in Salzburg. Mozart’s Geburtshaus is now one of the most frequently visited museums in the world, somewhere fans gather to learn about the composer’s early life.

MIRABELL PALACE GARDENS are incredibly beautiful

HOHENSALZBURG FORTRESS IS ONE OF THE LARGEST and best-preser ved medieval castles in

even in winter and they boast fabulous views of Salzach River, the old town and for tress skyline. As you stroll the grounds, you will likely recognise the Pegasus Fountain, which Maria and the von Trapp kids danced around in The Sound of Music.

Europe. First built in 1077, it looks like it’s been pulled straight out of a fair y tale and towers 199 metres above the city. Jump on the funicular railway to explore the imposing state rooms, the chapel and historic marionette museum.

SALZBURG’S STORYBOOK CHRISTMAS MARKETS are a world away from the

commercialised glitz of a Hong Kong mall. Each year, hundreds of vendors set up wooden huts at various locations throughout the old town from which to dole out traditional crafts, local produce and Christmas ornaments.

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- Coming Soon to Discovery Bay Pottery and Hand Clay Classes for All Levels of Adults and Children Pottery Parties Can Be Arranged Hand Building and Painting Classes For more information please email us at

clayatthebay@gmail.com

HATHA YOGA Enquiry:

9685 8366 likegreenwich@gmail.com

當內心像天空的雲一樣輕， 你便能打開心窗，獲得 「寧靜」 與「和平」」

www.greenwich-vinyasa.com.hk

! l e s n u o C Good ANISHA KUMAR RAMANATHAN, SENIOR ASSOCIATE AT WITHERS, DISCUSSES THE BENEFITS OF A PRE-NUPTIAL AGREEMENT

More and more couples are discussing getting a PreNuptial Agreement (PNA) in anticipation of marriage.

Such agreements are already very common in the US and in Europe, and their popularity in Asia continues to grow.

Though not yet legally binding in Hong Kong per se, since a Court of Final Appeal ruling in 2014, the presumption is that Family Courts should uphold PNAs if they are fair and both parties fully understand the implications. A properly drafted PNA is crucial to protect the assets of the party bringing the most wealth into the marriage or to safeguard any potential inheritance or business interests.

For most, the challenging aspect of a PNA is broaching the subject with their partner in the first place. It is a sensitive and awkward topic which could lead to a negative reaction during a time meant to be filled with happiness and excitement.

Strong marriages are built on good communication so the best way to avoid awkwardness is to broach the subject as early as possible in a relationship, and to have a frank and open discussion about your future together.

DOS AND DON’TS TO CONSIDER Be fair and honest. One of the fastest ways for a PNA to be invalidated is if one of the parties has not fully disclosed their assets. A schedule of assets should be attached to the PNA so the parties are ‘full and frank’ with each other about their financial position when entering into the marriage.

Do not allow emotions to prevail. If the drafting of the PNA is causing undue stress and arguments, take a short break from the process. This is why it is advisable

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to start the process early. It is better to wait until you are able to put your emotions aside and proceed with your best interests in mind.

Treat it as insurance. You would insure against burglary or upon entering a business contract, in the hope that nothing bad will happen. It should be the same for a marriage.

Encourage review. Both parties should know exactly what the PNA says and what the terms require. Often one party will have the document drafted by his or her lawyer first and then sent to the other for review. You should encourage your partner to obtain independent legal advice and review the document as it is important that they also have their interests protected.

Do not include anything that is illegal or would be considered unconscionable and do not include anything that may encourage or trigger divorce.

A good lawyer will advise against this as it would defeat the purpose of having a PNA in the first place.

Do not leave it until the last minute. If the PNA is drafted too close to the wedding, the spouse may try to invalidate it. It is always wise to have the agreement signed and sealed at least 28 days before the big day. The document can then be filed away and in ideal circumstances, forgotten about.

However, if the worst does happen, the PNA will be an excellent insurance.

For more information on PNAs and protecting yourself in the unfortunate event of a divorce, reach out to Anisha Kumar Ramanathan, Senior Associate at Withers, at anisha.ramanathan@withersworldwide.com.

Withers, 30/F United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty, 3711 1600, www.withersworldwide.com.

Contact us today for a free assessment.

Mathnasium of Discovery Bay WhatsApp/Phone : 2628 3362 mathnasium.com.hk/discoveybay Shop 105-B North Plaza

! s p i T Top

SELLING OPTIONS Options sellers have good odds of a trade working out in their favour. Boon Tiong Tan explains how it’s done PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels

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L

ast issue, we talked about high-dividend stocks and why they’re not as safe a bet as many investors assume. What is an alternative way to achieve a similar return? The answer is to sell options. Options are more complicated than dividends but it is not rocket science. Anyone who has a grasp of basic mathematics can learn to trade options.

Let’s start with an example. Say Apple’s share price is US$140. You think it is too high and you are happy to buy 20% lower at US$110. You can sell a put option with an exercise price of US$110 with one year expiry to earn a premium of US$5.5. This is the income you earn for setting aside US$110 to buy the Apple stock in case it drops below US$110 in one year’s time. The return on the cash you set aside is US$5.5/ US$110 = 5%. Doesn’t that sound like a good deal? You earn a 5% annual return on your cash and get a chance to buy Apple shares at a 20% discount.

No matter what happens to Apple’s price a year later, this US$5.5 is in your pocket. If Apple’s stock price is above US$110 then, you can sell another option (either Apple or another company) to earn more income from your US$110 cash. You can keep repeating this and keep earning the premiums if your options are not exercised. If Apple’s price is below US$110 in a year’s time, you are obliged to buy it at US$110.

WHAT IS A STOCK OPTION? It is a legal contract giving the buyer the right to trade a stock at a contractual price (known as an exercise price) within a timeframe. A buyer of an option pays a premium and the seller earns the premium. The value of a premium is derived from a stock. The premium of an Apple option is derived from Apple.

The value of a premium is determined by many factors.

The three most important are volatility, exercise price (or strike price) and expiry date. The more volatile the stock, the higher the premium. Gamestop’s premium is multiple times that of Apple because it is a much more volatile stock. The nearer the exercise price to the stock price, the higher the premium. Lastly, the further away the expiry date, the higher the premium. An option that expires in three months has a higher premium than one that expires in one month.

INSIDER

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AN OPTION IS LIKE A LAMBORGHINI WITH A TOP SPEED OF 350 KM/H – IT CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS IF YOU DRIVE IT RECKLESSLY. HOWEVER, YOU CAN CHOOSE TO DRIVE IT SLOWLY AND SAFELY 350 km/h – it can be very dangerous if you drive it recklessly. However, you can choose to drive it slowly and safely. One way to do that is to follow the Apple example given at the beginning of this article – sell a put option only if you have enough money to buy the stock.

What you are doing here is similar to an insurance company selling an insurance product. The company collects the premium now and pays the claim later if need be. You ‘pay the claim’ by buying the stock if the stock price drops below your exercise price at expiry.

There are two types of options: call and put. Call options give buyers the right to buy a stock at an exercise price. Put options give buyers the right to sell a stock at an exercise price. A buyer of a call option believes the stock price is going up and a buyer of a put option believes the stock price is going down.

Their options are profitable if the prices move far enough in the direction they anticipate.

It’s true that options prices are, by nature, much more volatile than the underlying stocks; it’s not uncommon for a stock price to move a few percent and the option price to move a few hundred percent.

An option is like a Lamborghini with a top speed of THE PREMIUM YOU EARN IS CERTAIN AND UPFRONT AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

57

INSIDER

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What is the risk? As a put option seller, you are obliged to buy Apple at US$110 at expiry no matter how low the stock price goes, even to zero. While this may sound scary, it is the same risk as investing in a stock. Selling a put option with enough cash to buy the stock is no riskier than owning a stock.

The advantage of selling a put option over owning a stock is you earn a premium and have a chance to buy a stock at a lower price.

PLAYING THE MARKET Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) have options too.

All big ETFs like SPY (S&P 500 ETF) and QQQ (Nasdaq 100 ETF) have very active option markets.

If you sell a one-year-expiry QQQ put option at a 20% lower exercise price, your annual return is 4.3%. For SPY, it is 3.7%. You get to earn about 4% while waiting for the major US indexes to drop 20%.

You can also sell a put option on a high-yield stock.

Ping An Insurance has a 4.6% dividend yield. A 20% lower exercise price earns you a 9% return. Not only is the return higher than the dividend yield, selling the put option is also safer. You don’t have the risk of owning Ping An – until you own it at 20% lower.

If you want to buy a stock with high volatility, the return is juicier. Take Zoom, the current price is US$260. If you sell a put option at a 20% lower exercise price of US$210, your annual return is 11%.

If the exercise price is 30% lower, the annual return is still a good 6.8%.

If you believe cinemas will come back strongly and are happy to buy AMC, your annual return for a 20% lower exercise price is an amazing 40%. Even if you only want to buy at 60% lower than the current price, you can still pick up a 20% return. For stocks like Gamestop and Kodak during their most volatile days, you could earn a decent return of above 5% for an exercise price 90% lower than the current price.

A few warnings about the options market. Don’t be tempted to become an options buyer. Most options expire worthless, which means most buyers lose money.

The occasional wins aren’t enough to pay for the frequent losses. Don’t treat options as lottery tickets.

Something else you need to know: You can potentially lose the premium hundreds of times if you sell a call option without owning the stock. Never do that.

OPTIONS VERSUS HIGH-DIVIDEND STOCKS So, should you buy high-dividend stocks or sell put options? One advantage of selling put options is

YOU CAN CHOOSE A PRECISE RISK/ REWARD

that the premium you earn is certain and upfront.

Dividends are never a sure thing and you have to wait a year to collect. Another advantage of options is you can choose a precise risk/ reward. If you are a risk taker, you can choose a 10% lower exercise price to enjoy a higher return. If you are more cautious, you can choose a 30% lower exercise price for a lower return. Selling options will suit you if you are not comfortable with your stocks’ price swings. You only have stock risk when the stock price falls below the exercise price.

Options require you to choose and trade at least once a year. If you choose a shorter than one-year expiry, you have to work even harder. High-dividend stocks have the advantage of requiring less work.

You spend some time choosing and buying one, then you simply sit back and collect your dividends.

However, such good high-dividends are rare and hard to find.

Selling put options has some advantages over selling high-dividend stocks. But which is better comes down to your personality. One key to the success of investing is to find the right product and market that suits your character. Still can’t make up your mind?

Do them all and have the best of both worlds!

DB resident Boon Tiong Tan (CFA) has worked as a trader with banks like HSBC and Morgan Stanley for over 20 years, and he is the author of A Stock Investment Book For The 99%. For information about the one-on-one courses (money management, stock investment, options trading and chess) that he provides for both adults and kids, email tbt444@gmail.com.

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CENTRE MINDS

COUNSELLING SERVICE

WHAT CAN COUNSELLING DO FOR YOU? REGAIN EMOTIONAL BALANCE ABILITY TO SET BOUNDARIES INCREASE ASSERTIVENESS BUILD GREATER SELFCONFIDENCE BETTER RELATIONSHIPS TRAUMA RESOLUTION STRESS RELIEF LESS ANXIETY

www.centreminds.com Tel or Whatsapp: 5322 6674 Level 12, Infinitus Plaza, 199 Des Voeux Road, Sheung Wan

CREATE A LIFE WHICH FEELS GOOD ON THE INSIDE AND SHOWS ON THE OUTSIDE.

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Eat drink & be merry!

RECIPES

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Want to really push the boat out this year? These time-honoured showstoppers capture the essence of traditional Christmas baking and are sure to wow your guests

Christmas Trifle

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock

Serves 6 5 trifle sponge cakes Raspberry jam 225g frozen raspberries 55ml sherry 550ml double cream 3 egg yolks 25g caster sugar 1tsp cornflour 2 small bananas, peeled and sliced thin 50g flaked almonds Break the sponge cakes into pieces and spread a little raspberry jam on each piece. Place them in a large glass bowl and sprinkle the frozen raspberries and sherry over. Stir well.

To make the custard, heat 275ml double cream in a small saucepan. Blend the egg yolks, sugar and cornflour together in a basin, and when the cream is hot pour it over the egg mixture, stirring constantly. Return the custard to the saucepan and stir over a very low heat until thick. Leave to cool.

Sprinkle the bananas in amongst the raspberries and pour the custard over the top. Garnish with the remaining (whipped) cream, additional berries and the almonds. Cover and chill well before serving.

AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

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RECIPES

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Baked Alaska Serves 8 300g caramel ice cream 200g black cherry conserve 400g vanilla ice cream 5 egg whites 200g caster sugar 400g Christmas cake (with icing removed) Line a 900ml pudding basin with a double layer of cling film. Scoop the caramel ice cream into the bowl, patting it down well. Top with the conserve, followed by the vanilla ice cream. Pat down firmly, cover with cling film and freeze for at least 2 hours.

Heat the oven to 200°C. Whisk the egg whites until stiff, then slowly whisk in the sugar until firm and glossy. Slice the cake and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, to make a round the same size as the top of the ice-cream bowl. Press together well to make sure there aren’t any gaps.

Lift the ice cream out of the bowl, remove the cling film and turn onto the cake. Spread the meringue evenly over the ice cream and cake, making sure there are no gaps. Bake for 4-5 minutes until nicely coloured. Serve immediately.

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樂群家居照顧服務

電 申請服務H致 otline︓ Application

Lok Kwan Home Care Service

Caregiver Support 照顧者支援服務

Nursing & Personal Care 護理及個人照顧

Clinical Psychological Service 臨床心理服務

可自行申請服務 May apply on your own 服務時間︓星期一至六︓早上八時至下午六時 逢星期日及公眾假期休息 Service Hours: Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm (Close on Sunday and Public Holidays)

Physiotherapy 物理治療 Case Management 個案管理

綜合到戶家居服務

Package of home-based support service

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Speech Therapy 言語治療

Occupational Therapy 職業治療

為殘疾人士提供服務 Serve the people with disabilities

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PH O T OS BY Bal j i t G i dwani w ww.evo q uepo r t rai t s .c o m

UNCLE RUSS INSTAGRAM COMPETITION

WIN PRIZES FROM UNCLE RUSS COFFEE AND THE PIER BAR! The best snap wins! Your mission this month is to share your favourite photo of DB on Instagram, hashtag #arounddb. You have until the 10th of the month to enter.

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

CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST MONTH'S WINNER: Ingrid Mak @makingrid

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CLASSIFIEDS

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Discovery Bay Church (Anglican / Episcopal)

Christmas Services in Discovery Bay Church!

Come & Celebrate the Birth of Christ

Sunday 5 December 10am Nine Lessons and Carols Friday 24 December (Christmas Eve) 6pm Nativity Play and Christingle Candle-lighting Saturday 25 December (Christmas Day) 10am Family Eucharist with Carols

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

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Unit 17, 1/F, Office Building Block Two, North Plaza, Discovery Bay

+852 9685 7856

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DrBearSchool@gmail.com

Mandarin Fun Playgroup COURSE INFO Age From 2 To 3.5 Years Old A Creative, Motivating and Cheerful Environment Various Activities of Singing, Dancing, Storytelling, Playing Games, Artwork and Others Develop Children’s Gross & Fine Motors, Collaboration Ability, Social Skills and Aesthetic Sentiment Daily Life Topics Such As Autumn, Community, X’mas and Others.

Alcoholics Anonymous

If you want to drink, that’s your business.

If you want to stop, we can help.

No dues or fees.

24hr hotline: 9073 5922

www.aa-hk.org

Is It Possible to Buy Custom-Made Household Items at a Reasonable Price?

Yes! CREATE YOUR OWN

UNIQUE HOME STYLE WITH TAILOR-MADE FURNITURE,

TO HOME DECOR AND MORE! Contact El Heng of Lewis & Co., Limited at 6333 6891 to Discuss Further

The finest selection of lavender essestial oils, shampoos, hand creams, Foam Bath, Wildflower & Geranium, body lotions imported from the U.K. Lavender grown and harvested in the Cotswold with no artificial fragrances.

Ginger extract hair serum and herbal teas from Thailand.

A range of branded alcohol hand & hand Sanitisers.

Tel: 2527 0118 / 6050 5737 Gmail: essentialssophia@gmail.com

https://sophiaessentials.com

AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

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2109 9886 2985 5365 2984 0302 2984 0302 2980 3676 2984 0302 3689 7033 5511 6107 2984 0006

RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY BahçeTurkish Restaurant 2984 0222 Bathers 2504 4788 Cafe Isara 2470 1966 Caffe Paradiso 2984 0498 China Bear 2984 9720 La Pizzeria 2984 8933 Lantana Italian Bistro 5465 5511 Long Island 2320 2001 The China Beach Club 2983 8931

RETAIL Friendly Bike Shop 2984 2278 Garden Plus 2980 2233 IslandWines 9521 8481 Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. 2984 8346 Lantau Base Camp 9889 4375 Lantau Grocer 2702 0050 Red Hall Chinese Antiques 2988 1368 Tony’s Salon 2984 0990 ValueVigilantes 6132 9120 VIBE Book & Music Shop 9088 2370 SPORT & RECREATION Long Coast Seasports South Lantau Paddle Club Treasure Island Beach Club

5545 5625 6058 8843 2546 3543

WELLBEING & BEAUTY Pause by the Banyan Spa Ambiance

9708 0187 2984 2488

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LOCAL NUMBERS

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DISCOVERY BAY EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 China Light & Power Emergency DB Fire & Ambulance Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Police Report Room

2728 8333 2987 7502 2435 4511 3661 1694

FINANCIAL SERVICES Bank of China 2160 8585 HSBC 2233 3000 Parsons White Wealth Management 2433 6981 The Stephen Putnam Practice 2914 0388 HOME & REPAIRS China Light & Power Information DRS Company Good Luck Engineering Hung Kee Co May’s Furniture & Curtain Design Rich Point Hardware Materials Water Fault Reports

Water Supplies Department Well Supreme Laundry

2678 2678 9156 0360 2987 1313 2987 5087 2987 0222 2987 0789 2811 0788 2824 5000 2987 5151

HOTELS Auberge Discovery Bay

2295 8288

LAWYERS & INSURANCE Harvey Law Group International law firm offering a wide range of commercial & personal legal services. Meeting facilities available in DB. Contact 24168618, dboffice@harveylawcorporation.com,

Manulife 9172 9152 LEARNING CENTRES Discovery Montessori School A reputable & well-known international school for authentic Montessori bilingual (English & Chinese) education for children aged 1 to 12 years. Beautiful campus & highly qualified teachers. Contact 2987 1201, enquiry@dms.edu.hk, www.dms.edu.hk Little Explorers The longest running playgroup in DB, Little Explorers eases the transition between home play and kindergarten for children aged 18 months and up. Contact 6331 7215, littleexplorersdb@gmail.com Tree of Joy A fun, engaging & supportive environment in which children play & learn. Programmes include a drop-off nursery class, parent-toddler class, afternoon camp & cooking class. Contact 9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com

Bayview House of Children 6114 2436 DBIS 2987 7331 DBIS Kindergarten 2914 2142 Discovery College 3969 1000 Discovery Mind International Play Centre 2987 8088 Discovery Mind Kindergarten 2987 8088 Discovery Mind Primary School 2914 2202 Discovery Montessori Academy 2812 9206 Dr Bear Education Centre 9685 7856 Epic Adventurers 2441 0098 Eye Level Education Learning Centre 9366 0000 Funfit 6302 6327 HKILA 2416 3198 La Petite Enfance Kindergarten 8191 0813 L’Ecole Pierre et Marie Curie 8191 0813 Links Parenting 6114 2436 Mandarin for Munchkins 2480 3909 Mathemagic (home tutoring) 9135 4724 Mathnasium 2628 3362 70

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SKH Wei Lun Primary School 2987 8608 Sunshine House International Preschool 2987 8143 Treasure House 2987 4217 Woodentots 6108 9131 Zhi Zhi Chinese 9648 2966 MEDICAL Bayside Dental Practice 2987 0855 DB Medical Centre 2987 5633 Health & Care Dental Clinic 2666 6183 Island Health 2987 7575 North Lantau Hospital 3467 7000 Quality Health Medical Centre 2987 5633 Quality Health Physiotherapy 2473 6200 Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Lok Kwan Home Care Service 2803 2103 Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Lok Kwan District Support Centre (Islands) 2548 0060/ 2546 3739 PLACES OF WORSHIP DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB Anglican Church DB International Community Church Trinity Chapel

2987 8136 2987 4210 2987 7061 2987 9909

REALTORS Headland Homes 2987 2088 Kingsland 2987 2987 Land Master Property 2987 6238 Okay.com 2102 0829 Savills 2987 1919 REMOVALS & RELOCATION Akash Removals 2421 8088 FTC Relocations 2814 1658 Hoi Yu Transportation 2987 4488 ReloSmart 2561 3030 SwiftRelo 2363 4008 RESIDENTIAL SERVICES DB Office Centre DB Lost & Found DB Management The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council Typhoon Signal Enquiries

2238 3388 3651 2345 2238 3601 2259 3422 2835 1473

RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY 22º North 2987 2298 Bones & Blades 2383 0792 Café Bord de Mer & Lounge 2295 8299 Caffe Pascucci 2591 1426 Cali-Mex 2904 7698 Coyote Mexican Cantina 2987 2848 Ebeneezer’s 2987 0036 Epic Foods 2172 6111 Figos Seaside Café 2987 2915 First Korean Restaurant 2987 9123 Hemingway’s 2987 8855 il Bel Paese 2987 0202 Island Café 2987 9311 Koh Tomyums 2987 0767 La Creation & Châteraisé 2987 1829 Lekker Laa 6857 1620 McSorley’s Ale House 2987 8280 Mirch Masala 2987 1337 Moofish 2987 6318 Pacific Coffee 2987 1662 Paisano’s 2673 4445 Peony 2500 1950 PizzaExpress 2465 2426 Solera 2555 0772 Starbucks 2246 8372

LOCAL NUMBERS

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DISCOVERY BAY Subway 2914 0005 The Pier Bar 2520 2166 Three Sheets Marquee Bar 2987 0966 Uncle Russ 2840 1188

Yoga Bay 6704 9851 Yogika 6749 7836 YogaUP 68054996

RETAIL & DAILY NECESSITIES Bones & Blades Butcher 2383 0683 Bookazine 2987 1373 DB Post Office 2987 6046 felix and mina

2130 7013 Fotomax 2914 2378 Fusion by PARKnSHOP 2987 7486 Gillian Florist 2529 8256 Japan Home Centre 2987 1041 P-Solution 2987 1777 Rapee-living 2987 7082 She Creates Stories 9166 8077 Sloowood 2944 5189 Star Mart 2366 6534 Tai Fat Hardware Store 2987 0789 The Optical House 2987 1368 Nomadic 2987 8460 Red Velvet 9010 5832 Toysland 2987 7859 Watson’s Pharmacy 2987 4089 Wellcome 2947 9092 Wing On Department Store 2987 9268 Yours Electrical Centre 2987 4428

TRANSPORTATION DB Golf Cart Services DB Transportation Services Limousine Rental Wiselink Golf Cart Services

2914 2727 2987 7351 5303 3489 2987 9368

VETERINARY SERVICES & PETS Island Veterinary Services

My Pet Shop Pets Gallery Ready, Pet, Go!

2987 9003 2987 8873 2987 0428 5721 6181

SPORT & RECREATION HK Dragons Football Club

WELLBEING & BEAUTY Ingredients of Wellness Mindfulness training for children, teens & their parents and teachers. Offering Mindfulness Matters, Mindfulness in Education (for adults), AMT Mindfulness Teacher Training.

Contact 9048 5425, angie@ingredientsofwellness.com, www.ingredientsofwellness.com

Afflatus Hair Workshop 2987 0283 Bay Spa 9837 0969 DB Pure Spa 9794 0918 Herbal Health Care 2834 7276 Maximum Care 2987 2060 Nailed It! 2987 2266 Nest Care 2499 8826 Salon De Coiffure 2987 4112 Sophia Essentials 2527 0118

Football for girls & boys aged 2.5 years to 14 years.

Contact 2987 4274, dragons.hk

Island Dance ISTD Freestyle, ISTD Hip Hop, RAD Ballet, Tap & AcroDance classes at DBRC, Club Siena & DB Plaza.

Five professional instructors, teaching six days a week.

Contact 2987 1571/ 9159 0663, info@islanddance.com.hk, www.islanddance.com.hk Tekkerz Football programmes for boys & girls for age groups U5 up to U14. Contact 9770 4548, train@tekkerzfootball.com, www.prosportsasia.com

The Beat

VIEW THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY @

www.arounddb.com

A premium fitness centre situated in two convenient locations at north and south plaza.

Offering group fitness, pilates reformer, barre, yoga, kids fitness, personal training and latin dancing. Contact 5721 3000, info@thebeat.com.hk, www.thebeat.com.hk

BMSE Community Centre 2259 3422 Club Siena 2987 7382 DBees 6473 4277 DB Ice Rink 2234 0187 DB Pirates 9255 6133 DB Golf Club 2987 7273 DB Recreation Club 2987 7381 DMR 5210 7208 Embody 6624 8712 EpicLand 2441 0098 Fit 852 9680 7665 Future Stars Dance Academy 2987 6867 Greenwich Yoga School 9685 8366 Harry Wright International 2575 6279 Kapuhala Train-in-Space 6101 8434 Lantau Yacht Club 2987 9591 MGK Fight Club 9303 2996

To add your own directory listing box, call the Bay Media office on 2987 0167, or email info@baymedia.com.hk AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021

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OUT THERE

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! n oo p m a L DB

THE JOYS OF SLEEPING AT ALTITUDE Recalling a couple of bad nights on Mera Peak, Peter Sherwood decides he’s happy to settle for a hike in South Lantau this Christmas PHOTO COURTESY OF Unsplash

M

era Peak in Nepal is no big deal – a trekking peak of 6,476 metres. I tried it twice to prove that my near-death clash with altitude sickness on Mount Elbrus was a fluke. On the Russian mountain, I’d watched in horror as two guides rushed a man down the mountain in a raging blizzard to save his life: He was foaming red at the mouth. I already felt pretty sick and wondered if I would reach that point of almost no return.

There followed a few days of throwing up and cursing: No choice but to lie there with my head about to explode contemplating one of the playful edemas – lungs or brain, take your pick.

(Not an issue for our Russian guide who would stop for a break in the thin air and light up a thick, black, filter-free cigarette).

The first 16-day Mera trip involved a cavalier ascent – too high, too fast and with the inevitable result (the mountaineering maxim ‘climb high, sleep low’ was not on the itinerar y). It was embarrassing, but not nearly as bad as struggling up steep rock and ice only to be over taken at speed by a 15-year-old kid carr ying the contents of an apar tment on his head – wearing a t-shir t, shor ts and ancient flip flops. Worse, by the time I staggered into camp he’d set up my tent and made me an apple pie.

There followed a titanic sinking of spirit and the crushing to oblivion of my ego – with altitude sickness the icing on the apple pie. I made it through the night when each minute seemed like six weeks, before descending in the right direction and down about 500 metres. (Nepalese

SHERPAS MAKE IT LOOK EASY

geography dictates that for ever y strenuous altitude gain there will follow a descent designed to make you feel inadequate).

I imagine that, like childbir th, some silly psychological delusion makes us forget the agony, or we wouldn’t do it again. A few inter vening years of slow hikes over 5,000 metres with no ill effect and I was back to Mera. It went well, until it didn’t.

Up high and feeling like I’d been hit by a bullet train, I had to head down in the dark for some relief, accompanied by another half-naked flip-flopper bouncing blindly from rock to rock. Depression worsened as illness dimmed. I took solace, but not much, in Everest-summitting Sir Edmund Hillar y’s collision with altitude sickness at just 4,000 metres.

He had to be helicoptered out.

What’s it like? It makes seasickness feel like lying on a beach in Hawaii with supermodel Bella Hadid.

It’s like food poisoning plus Arnold Schwarzenegger whacking a white-hot spike through the top of your head with a sledgehammer. But it’s free and full of surprises. You might get it and then again you might not. What you need is a skinny teen to lead your sorr y soul down to thicker air.

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 20+ years. The former head of an international public relations firm, he is the author of 15 books and has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

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AROUND DB / DECEMBER 2021