Around DB February 2025

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F E B R u A R Y 2 0 2 6 | D I S C O V E R Y B AY ' S O R I G I N A L C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E - P U B L I S H E D S I N C E 2 0 0 2

LOVE, INTERRUPTED Be my Valentine? What romance really looks like once children run the house

ONE WORLD SPIRIT The DB nonprofit helping neighbours connect through culture

PRESENT PASTOR How Reverend Drew Courtright finds faith in the everyday

Happy Chinese New Year!

WHAT THE YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE HAS IN STORE

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Welcome to Co-Working Space@DB, where innovation meets comfort! Nestled in the heart of Discovery Bay, our unique workspace offers a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor environments designed to cater to today’s dynamic work needs.

Experience the freedom to work in our thoughtfully designed hybrid workspace. With adjustable-height tables and ergonomic chairs indoors, combined with a sun terrace and lounge area outdoors, our space promotes flexibility and comfort. Whether you prefer the tranquility of indoor environments or the refreshing open air, we have the perfect spot for you – with views!

Our layout encourages integration and interaction among members. Engage with fellow professionals and cultivate relationships in an inspiring setting that encourages creativity.

L/G UNIT 3, BLOCK 1, DB NORTH PLAZA, DISCOVERY BAY, LANTAU ISLAND +852 2426 8828 | INFO@COWORKINGDB.HK WWW.COWORKINGDB.HK

Our workspace is equipped with everything you need for a productive day, including a printer, scanner and shredder, a full kitchen and outdoor BBQ for social gatherings. We also provide free coffee and snacks to fuel your work!

Join us and become a part of a vibrant community that celebrates creativity and collaboration.

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FEATURES 12 PROFILE Reverend Drew Courtright reflects on his first year as Priestin-Charge at DB Anglican Church

16 COMMUNITY DB non-profit One World Spirit Association promoting cultural diversity and exchange

24 INSIDER A wild ride at CNY: discover what we can expect from 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse

30 PARENTING

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Happy Valentine’s Day: a candid look at marriage, parenthood and redefining romance AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

REGULARS

AGENDA

28 ESCAPES

03 ADB SCAVENGER HUNT

Prague: City of Spires

33 GOOD READS

Six classic love stories

34 KIDS CORNER

Fun facts, games and crafts

40 AT A GLANCE

Valentine’s Day 2026 stats

C O M M U N I T Y

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L O C A L

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L I F E S T Y L E

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P A R E N T I N G

LOVE, INTERRUPTED

ONE WORLD SPIRIT The DB nonprofit helping neighbours connect through culture

PRESENT PASTOR How Reverend Drew Courtright finds faith in the everyday

Happy Chinese New Year!

WHAT THE YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE HAS IN STORE

AROUNDDB.COM

08 EVENT ROUND-UP 22 AT THE MOVIES QUIZ 27 CNY WISH LIST 38 LOCAL NUMBERS

ON THE COVER

If you have an event we can help

Celebrating CNY 2026: the Year of the Fire Horse

featured or an idea for an article,

F E B R u A R Y 2 0 2 6 | D I S C O V E R Y B AY ' S O R I G I N A L C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E - P U B L I S H E D S I N C E 2 0 0 2

Be my Valentine? What romance really looks like once children run the house

04 DB NEWS

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February 14 and 15

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CNY FLORAL CONE-MAKING WORKSHOP

Get ready for the holidays by making your own CNY floral cone on February 7 from 11am to 1pm at Discovery Bay Office Centre. The family-friendly class is led by Let Hope Bloom Florist (lethopebloomhk.com), with residents of all ages welcome – groups of up to three people get to make one flower cone. Register on a first-comefirst-served basis at FB @db.community.hk.

February 14

CONT R I B U TO RS

Sam Agars, Ray Au,

Elizabeth Kerr, Andrew Spires, Inka Viirret, Elena M. Zepeda

Promise Network Printing Ltd, Kwun Tong Industrial Centre, Kwun Tong Rd, Kowloon A D B O FFI C E

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STUFF TO KNOW

Another highlight for Februar y 14 is DB’s Valentine’s Day Bouquet & Dining Of fer, available for preorder via Klook until Februar y 8, with packages star ting at HK$1,530. Six DB restaurants – Peony’s, Figo’s, JOO, ONA and Café Bord de Mer & Lounge – are presenting themed menus across Chinese, Western, Korean and Mediterranean cuisines, making it easy to tailor the per fec t date-night experience.

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DB is set to become Hong Kong’s most romantic destination this Valentine’s Day with Tai Pak Beach transformed once again into a breathtaking candlelit spec tacle. More than 7,0 0 0 LED candles arranged to form an 8-metre illuminated hear t, surrounded by a galaxy of smaller hear ts, create the per fec t set ting for a romantic photo op. You can also expec t live music, with local buskers The Flame per forming at 6.30pm, 7.45pm and 9pm. And you can catch Disney’s dazzling drone display from the beach at 9pm – a magical moment not to be missed.

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© AROUND DB 2026

The DB Weekend Market is living up to its (new) name this month, providing a lively CNY celebration over t wo days. As you browse the outdoor stalls in DB South Plaza on Februar y 14 and 15 be sure to pick up a free Fai Chun – Lǎoshī Yeung of Hong Kong Calligraphy (hongkongcalligraphy.com) is providing residents with handwrit ten spring couplets to welcome good for tune, prosperity and happiness for the coming year.

DATE NIGHT

PRIN T I N G

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.

CNY WEEKEND MARKET

Each thought fully designed package includes dinner for t wo, a bouquet of premium Ecuadorian roses from Bloom, an exclusive Love Lock gif t box and t wo return ferr y tickets (should you need them). Couples can also choose to have their personal love messages displayed on huge screens at DB Ice Rink and Central Pier 3, a charming oppor tunit y to share your stor y in a grand way.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

Introducing ADB’s Kids Corner

February 20

DB NEWS

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Dear readers,

LAI SEE PACKET RECYCLING Do your bit by get ting behind CM’s Lai See Packet Recycling Campaign running from Februar y 20 to late March. You’ll find recycling boxes, where you can deposit as-new red packets at the DB Of fice Centre, DB Pier ticket counter and local management of fices. To find out more, visit FB @db.communit y.hk.

! s t n e v E &

We’ve heard on the grapevine that n the youngest DB residents enjoy flipping througheve Ar oun d we’re excited to introduce a brand--new mo DB, so Corner starting with this issue ! Designede nthly Kids specially for our junior readers, the column is packed with crafts and games to spark imagination and fun facts, minds busy. We’re inviting kids to play keep curious create!! Each month will feature a mini ‘b, think and (February’s is CN Y-- themed)) and there’ll berain booster’ something to make, plus bonus puzzles and games.

Wed’ love to know what you – and r kids – think!!

Turn to page 34 and email rachel@@aroyou .db.com to tell und us what youd’ like to see more of..

With best regards, The Around DB team

IN FEBRUARY!

February 18

CNY LION DANCE PARTIES

It’s CNY Lion Dance Party-time on February 18, the second day of the Lunar New Year, at Club Siena (11.10am) and DBRC (1.15pm). Expect traditional dot-the-lion-eyes and catch-thelettuce ceremonies, followed by a festive lion dance performance.

Everyone is invited to get into the spirit by dressing in traditional Chinese costume. To find out more, visit dbrc.hk.

February 15

VALENTINE’S DAY RACE The Trail Hub’s annual Valentine’s Day Race is scheduled for Februar y 15 this year.

Star ting and finishing at Treasure Island on Pui O Beach, you can choose to run either the 15 -kilometre Tough Love or the 9-kilometre Easy Love, both open to teams of t wo. All par tners must finish the course together. To find out more and enrol, visit thetrailhub.com.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY FEB 07 | GATHER AT THE CNY PLANT MARKET in Community Green Square from 2pm to 4.30pm. Visit FB @db.community.hk.

FEB 08 | JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP! Meet at the Nim Shue Wan gate at 2.10pm. Email dana@plasticfreeseas.org.

FEB 14 & 15 | SHOP THE DB WEEKEND MARKET in DB South Plaza from 11am to 6pm. Visit handmadehongkong.com.

ALL MONTH | DONATE PRELOVED FURNITURE to people in need through DB Mothers & Friends. To arrange for pick-up, visit FB @dbmf.collection.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

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DB NEWS

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Out now!

New in DB North!

AXIS PERFORMANCE

Physio recover y hub A xis Per formance launched on Januar y 24 in DB Nor th promising real results for ac tive lifest yles.

The team’s exper t physiotherapists provide the human touch – personalised recover y programmes with assessment and progress tracking – and you can also get a free AI-driven body assessment. Find out more at db_axisper formance.

DB ESG FAIR

February 28

With a focus on eco-friendly, sustainable living, DB ESG Fair is scheduled for February 28 this year, from 1pm to 5pm at DB South Plaza. You can expect educational exhibits, engaging booths, interactive games and live performances, plus an emphasis on well-established community-wide initiatives, such as the DB Food Waste Collection Scheme, DB Family Farm Project and Green DBers Programme. [PHOTO BY Sarin Ale]

A BREATH OF DISCOVERY 2.0 The second edition of DB nature guidebook A Breath of Discover y is out now, inviting you to immerse yourself in DB’s glorious flora and fauna. The compac t guide lists scenic local hiking trails, ecological highlights, Instagram-wor thy spots and cultural places of interest. Pick up a free copy at either plaza or download a digital copy at visitdiscover ybay.com.

February 2 to 7 February 8

BAKE SALE FOR GOOD

Preeti Sharma of My Pet Shop at DB Nor th Plaza is hosting a Bake Sale on Februar y 8 from 10.30am to 2pm. DB bakers are invited to donate their creations with proceeds going to local animal shelters (Catherine Puppies, Four Paws and Tails of Lantau); Helping Hand (a local non-profit suppor ting the elderly) and a Hong Kong-based domestic helper with stage- 4 cancer.

Preeti is also running a raf fle to help boost contributions. To get involved, call 2987 8873.

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

THE SNOW QUEEN DB’s The Per former’s Studio Theatre Company – a semi-professional troupe of 30+ child ac tors led by direc tor-producer Emma Tielus-Ward – is staging Paul Boyd’s The Snow Queen from Februar y 2 to 7 at the Hong Kong Ar ts Centre’s Shouson Theatre. A modern interpretation of the classic Hans Christian Andersen fair y tale, the show brings catchy songs, fastpaced choreography and larger-than-life charac ters. To find out more and book tickets, visit w w w.theper formersstudio.com.

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K H ss o r c A g in n e pp What's Ha

A C R O S S H O DN BG NK EOW N GS

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17 February

February 6 to 7

DREAM CONCERT WORLD TOUR

Dream Concert, South Korea’s biggest and longestrunning annual K-pop festival, has morphed into a world tour, and the first stop is Kai Tak Stadium. The lineup for February 6 and 7 includes EXO vocalists CBX (Chen, Baekhyun and Xiumin) and The Boyz, plus solo sensations Taemin of SHINee, Hwasa of Mamamoo, and BamBam of GOT7.

Tickets, priced from HK$788 to HK$2,488, went on sale in January at HK Ticketing.

February 19

CHINESE NEW YEAR NIGHT PARADE The annual Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade returns to Tsim Sha Tsui on February 17, with the main event setting off from Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza at 8pm. Expect huge floats, lion and dragon dances, drummers, acrobats and performers from all around the world.

You can enjoy the event from street level or from designated viewing stands, with tickets available at Klook.

CHINESE NEW YEAR RACE DAY Chinese New Year Race Day invites you to enjoy a blend of traditional festivities and live horse racing as par t of Hong Kong’s Lunar New Year celebration. The annually anticipated event is scheduled for Februar y 19 at Sha Tin Racecourse, with world-class races, lion dance per formances, floral displays and live music. Admission: HK$10.

February 17 to 23

MARGARITA MILE

LUMINOUS NEON

31 Through March

Showing at The Galler y in Sham Shui Po through March 31, the Luminous Neon exhibition explores the craf t, culture and creativit y of Hong Kong’s iconic neon signage. View legendar y signs such as those previously in place at Golden Phoenix Grill Restaurant and Nam Cheong Pawn Shop, plus bold new creations by contemporar y neon ar tisans. Entrance is free.

Sip your way down Holly wood Road during Margarita Mile, a tequila and cock tail celebration running from Februar y 17 to 23. Punters can pick up a Margarita Mile passpor t and visit 10 of the cit y’s top bars (Call Me Al, The Holly well’s, COA, Dead Poets, The Globe, Cour troom, Socio, The Pontiac, Green Door and Lockdown) collec ting stamps to unlock rewards such as free shots and prize draw entries. To find out more, visit drinks99.com.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

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! t u o b A & Out

EVENT ROUND-UP

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WHAT YOU'VE BEEN UP TO! AT THE 18TH TENNIS CHARITY CUP DBRC hosted the 18th Tennis Charity Cup on January 24, with teams made up of eight players: four men and four women. Club members’ guests were invited both to spectate and get on court (maximum three members’ guests per team). Proceeds from the day went to Watchdog and the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association, two local charities that focus on children and adults with individual needs. [PHOTOS BY Andrew Spires.]

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

EVENT ROUND-UP

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

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EVENT ROUND-UP

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AT THE DB OPEN FS CHALLENGE DB Ice Rink hosted the second ISIAsia-endorsed DB Open Figure Skating Challenge from January 2 to 4. There were opportunities for young skaters and beginners to gain competitive experience, and for advanced skaters to showcase fully choreographed freestyle routines.

[PHOTOS COURTESY OF HKRI.]

BEST MUSIC. BEST TASTE @DB TVB’s Midlife, Sing & Shine! season one stars Albert Chau and Ramon Lo performed live at DB North on December 26, alongside up-and-coming Hong Kong girl bands Beanies and IdG Bubbles. [PHOTOS COURTESY OF HKRI.]

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

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! y a d y r e v E e th in R ooted

PROFILE

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BUILDING TRUST, ONE CONVERSATION AT A TIME

A year into his role at Discovery Bay Anglican Church, Reverend Drew Courtright is less interested in milestones than in building trust – one conversation, one coffee, one ferry ride at a time REPORTING BY Elena M. Zepeda

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew Spires

n a weekday morning in Discover y Bay, Reverend Drew Cour tright might be walking his three daughters to school, grabbing a cof fee in DB Nor th Plaza, or heading to the ferr y for a day at St John’s Cathedral in Central. Like many residents, his life unfolds between playgrounds and timetables, school pickups and commutes. The dif ference is that, for Drew, those ever yday interac tions are also the foundation of his work.

Drew arrived in DB in early 2025 to take up the role of Priest-in-Charge at Discover y Bay Anglican Church.

His first ser vice was Epiphany Sunday, Januar y 5 – a fitting date, perhaps, for someone stepping into a new chapter. Now, a year on, he reflec ts on what it means to lead a small but growing congregation in a place defined as much by community life as it is by geography.

community. “Hong Kong feels ver y safe, ver y clean.

There’s a lot of suppor t in DB and we’re grateful to be raising our kids here at this stage of our lives,” he says.

Originally from the US, Drew was born in Greensboro, Nor th Carolina and spent much of his ministr y career on the East Coast. Before moving to Hong Kong, he ser ved as the Associate Rec tor at St Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Bedford, New York, where he worked through the challenges of Covid, helped grow youth and children’s programmes, and also ser ved as a prison chaplain. Earlier still, he trained as a Curate in New Hampshire, attended seminar y in Sewanee, Tennessee and did his undergraduate at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, an experience that broadened his sense of what life – and work – could look like beyond familiar borders.

“DB stood out as a per fect fit,” Drew opens. “When I saw the job posting in March 2024, it wasn’t just the role that caught my attention, I thought, this looks like a great place to live – especially with kids.”

“My wife travelled a lot growing up, and I spent four years in the UK for university,” he says. “So we were open to living abroad if the right oppor tunity came along. We didn’t want to force it – but when Hong Kong came up, it just felt right.”

He and his wife arrived with their three daughters, now aged nine, seven and four, who quickly settled into Discover y Montessori Academy in the Nor th Plaza. “All three are at the same school, just dif ferent age groupings. Same drop-of f, same pickup,” he says, clearly appreciating the logistical win.

“It’s a small school, a good fit for them, and they’re happy. And my wife’s happy,” he adds with a laugh.

“Happy wife, happy life.”

The role itself is split between DB and Central.

While Drew’s primar y responsibility is the DB congregation, he is also par t of the clergy team at St John’s Cathedral, one of Hong Kong’s most historic religious institutions. The cathedral runs multiple ser vices across several languages each weekend and hosts a range of outreach programmes, including counselling ser vices and long-standing suppor t for migrant workers.

For Drew, family life isn’t something that runs parallel to his role – it’s par t of how he understands

“That balance really appealed to me,” Drew explains. “In DB, it ’s ver y parish-based – I’m out

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PROFILE

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

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PROFILE

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in the communit y, meeting people, becoming par t of ever yday life. At the cathedral, there’s histor y, resources, colleagues and a lot of social outreach.”

Discover y Bay Anglican Church itself was founded in 1983 and became a daughter church of the cathedral a decade later. “It’s young but not brand new,” Drew says. “It’s seen dif ferent seasons of Hong Kong life and a few dif ferent pastors. Right now, it feels like a healthy, happy season.”

When Drew arrived, average Sunday attendance hovered around 60. Over the past year, that number has grown steadily, with recent averages just under 100, and 240 attending the church's 2025 Christmas Eve Nativity Pageant and Christingle ser vice. But numbers aren’t what he leads with when talking about success.

“The most impor tant thing in the first year was building trust,” he says. “Getting to know ever ybody, learning about the church and the wider community, and making small changes that seemed easy and necessar y and wor thwhile.”

Some of those changes are personal: the bible studies class Drew runs on Wednesdays at his home, the stickers and badges he’s had made with the church’s logo for children’s backpacks. Others are more prac tical: a refreshed website, a modest Instagram presence, an adver tisement in Around DB, and a brand-new banner outside S.K.H. Wei Lun Primar y School, where the church meets ever y Sunday at 10am.

“People need to know we’re here,” Drew says, “but they also need to know we’re not tr ying to sell them something. The truth is people don’t often look for spiritual help until they know they need it. My role is to be friendly and connected… but not overly pushy, because if you push church, people push it back.”

Sunday ser vices, Drew explains, are intentionally straightfor ward. The gathering lasts an hour.

Children begin the ser vice with their families before heading of f to age-grouped ‘Discoverer’s classes’ run by parent volunteers. “I think less is more,” he says. “People are busy. I like to of fer something

SUNDAY SERVICE AT S.K.H. WEI LUN PRIMARY SCHOOL 14

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

grounding and meaningful, and then let them get on with their day.”

Beyond Sundays, Drew spends much of his time meeting people one-on-one for cof fees, lunches, walks, and conversations that may or may not circle back to faith. He stresses that his role isn’t limited to church members. “Living in a community like this, you get to meet people from ever y where: dif ferent backgrounds, dif ferent beliefs, dif ferent stories. It’s not about them coming to church or not; it's about providing some care and a listening ear. So readers can reach out to me. We have a website; I've got an email address – dcourtright@stjohnscathedral.org.hk – I’d love to meet up and listen and talk.”

That approach seems to resonate with the community. The DB congregation includes families, single professionals, retirees, domestic workers, and residents whose first languages range far beyond English. Roughly 15 percent of attendees are Chinese, with both Mandarin and Cantonese speakers represented, alongside expats from more than a dozen linguistic backgrounds.

“What brings people together here isn’t hobbies or social circles,” Drew reflec ts. “It’s something deeper. And that can be quite power ful in a transient city. Church can hold a community together and provide a home-away-from home.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Drew isn’t planning dramatic reinvention. “More of the same, but deeper,” he says. “Helping people get to know each other and experience community together, suppor ting children and youth programmes, expanding the choir, and focusing on my school chaplain role at S.K.H. Wei Lun Primar y School.

“We like to have fun, we like to laugh,” Drew finishes.

“This year, we had a Blessing of the Backpacks ser vice when back-to-school time came around, and a Blessing of the Costumes just before Halloween.

I’d like to say that I take God seriously, but I don’t take myself or church too seriously. You know, we want reverence and appropriateness, but I’m not fussy, and if kids are making a little noise in the congregation, it’s great. It’s a sign of life.”

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COMMUNITY

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Living without Borders!

SHARING THE LOVE

Founded back in 2020, One World Spirit Association has grown into a vibrant community force, connecting cultures, generations and neighbours through education, celebration and shared experience. Sam Agars reports PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew Spires & courtesy of OWS 16

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

COMMUNITY

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tar ted in the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic as a way of “cheering up” Discover y Bay residents, One World Spirit Association (OWS) continues to go from strength to strength as it surges into its sixth full year in operation. Launched by Shirlee and Hans Dicker t in August 2020, the non-profit, volunteerrun charity constantly finds new and improved ways to promote cultural diversity and exchange within the community and beyond.

Specialising in cultural education, Shirlee, Hans and Co. cover a lot of ground – facilitating cultural immersion seminars in schools, kindergar tens and public libraries; organising whole-community DB events and workshops; and of fering corporate and institutional team building.

YUM CHA ETIQUETTE SEMINAR, OCTOBER 2025

Upwards of 15 people can be seen joining Hans and Shirlee as volunteers on a regular basis, while OWS also works to raise funds for small, hands-on local charities, such as Love to the Moon Foundation.

CNY HANFU CLOTHING WORKSHOP, JANUARY 2025

“We star ted as an NGO because of the tough times with the pandemic in Hong Kong but ac tually the East-meets-West cultural exchange idea had been in our minds for many years,” says Shirlee, who was born in Guangzhou, came to Hong Kong as a student and has lived in DB with German husband Hans for over 16 years.

“We wanted to do something more positive to cheer up the people and we thought Covid was a good time to star t the cultural programmes. Many residents couldn’t make it back to their home countries for Christmas so we star ted our St Nicholas visits.”

CHINESE TEA SEMINAR, MAY 2025

While those initial visits of St Nicholas – the thirdcentur y Catholic saint who inspired the modern version of Santa Claus – were confined to WhatsApp video calls in year one, physical home visits have subsequently become an annual highpoint on the DB event calendar.

“Our core mission is upstream: character building for youth through cultural education,” Shirlee says. “If we can help young people develop strong values – like the generosity embodied by St Nicholas – they will grow into adults who suppor t the underprivileged.

That’s sustainable, leveraged impact.”

OWS’ Bridging Cultures, Building Charac ter projec t, which brings Chinese and Western traditions to life for students aged 6 to 18, is a major focus.

Seminars are provided by a dedicated team of DB volunteers and designed to “go beyond theor y, of fering prac tical understanding of histor y, culture and ethics that students can apply in their academic work and daily interac tions”, with learning in both English and Chinese woven naturally throughout.

CNY VILLAGE PARTY, JANUARY 2025

ST NICHOLAS VISIT, DECEMBER 2025 AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

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COMMUNITY

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Schools and kindergar tens from across Hong Kong have engaged OWS to help children gain cultural understanding and learn about diversity. The most recent seminar in the series focused on Yam Cha Etiquette and was held at C.M.A. Secondar y School, Shek Kip Mei in Oc tober. Last year also saw the launch of OWS’ Chinese Splendid Culture series at Tin Shui Wai Public Librar y, plus a school pairing projec t between Hong Kong and Germany.

CULTURAL TOUR OF GUILIN, MARCH 2025

Working within DB, the team provides a vibrant series of multicultural events that bring the community together and also ser ve as a recruiting ground for new OWS volunteers. The offering has included those annual Xmas visits, numerous CNY par ties and workshops, a flurr y of bazaars, cooker y workshops, even a small-scale Oktober fest, and you can bet your bottom dollar there is always more to come.

Right now, Hans and Shirlee are preparing for a CNY par ty at Midvale Village featuring Hanfu, throw pot, paper cut and calligraphy, which they hope will be as big a success as last month’s International Food & Beer Fest, also held at Midvale. The latter brought neighbours together to share homemade dishes representing their hometowns or cultures.

There was a global beer tasting challenge and a best hometown cuisine award.

“We believe that food has culture and histor y, so ever yone can share the stor y behind their hometown food. It’s one of the easiest and most down-to-ear th ways to promote diversified culture,” says Shirlee.

“We want to do more cooker y workshops and get more people, from more par ts of the world involved.”

“DB is one of Hong Kong’s most unique residential distric ts where East meets West naturally. OWS ac ts as a cultural bridge helping residents of all ages connec t though language, tradition and shared cultural experiences,” adds Hans, who also organises regular Greater Bay Area Foodie Culture Tours for OWS’ core members and volunteers.

OWS par tners with the German Chamber of Commerce to deliver cultural team-building through dragon boating training, combining spor ts, tradition and teamwork, and fur ther oppor tunities to work in the corporate space are welcomed.

“Because we are an NGO, we also need some suppor t and we tr y to target cultural and corporate par tners,” says Hans, who works for a German industrial tech firm, while Shirlee is a financial adviser. “Our job is not in the NGO, the NGO is our hobby.”

Shirlee and Hans have seen plenty of change in recent years, and have enjoyed watching the local community evolve. “DB now welcomes more Mainland Chinese families and residents from various international backgrounds, creating a richer, 18

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

INTERNATIONAL FOOD & BEER FEST, JANUARY 2026

more diversified cultural landscape,” says Shirlee, who prides herself on her proficiency in Putonghua and the value that brings when promoting Chinese language and culture. “In turn, OWS has also become more experienced, struc tured and optimised in delivering its community programmes, school and kindergar ten cultural education and cross-cultural ac tivities for both children and adults.”

“We have maintained a stable commitment to contributing meaningfully to DB and beyond,” Hans adds. “In spite of our busy lifestyles – our work and family responsibilities – we believe community contribution matters. Our work is driven by passion, consistency and local understanding.”

Looking ahead, OWS will continue with more of the same – “We aim to deepen collaboration with DB schools and kindergartens, expand community-based cultural programmes and partner with city management offices, NGOs and institutions,” says Shirlee.

“There is a lot coming up this year,” Hans concludes.

“There are always a lot of newcomers to DB, so I’m considering taking small groups to explore Hong Kong and I can show them some interesting spots. There are some hidden gems in Hong Kong. Or we could go to China – the Greater Bay Area. We want to bring cultural understanding and community bonding.”

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CLIENT TALK

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DISCOVERING THE DUTCH ADVANTAGE HARVEY L AW GROUP UNPACKS THE NETHERL ANDS STARTUP VISA PROGRAM C ele b r ate d as o ne of t he hap pie s t co u nt r ie s in t h e wo r l d, t h e N e t h e r la n d s i s c h e r i s h e d f o r i t s progressive values, pic turesque landscapes and a lifest yle that per fec tly balances work, leisure and wellbeing. W hat you might not k now is t hat t he Netherlands is also one of Europe’s fastest-growing star tup hubs, and that the Dutch government reaches out to overseas entrepreneurial talent through the Netherlands Star tup Visa program.

In place for over a decade, the Netherlands Star tup Visa program is recognised as a fast-track gateway for ambitious foreign entrepreneur s to launch an innov ative s t ar t up b u s ine s s in t he Net her lan d s.

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

BENEFITS OF THE PROGR AM The Netherlands Star tup Visa progr am has no upper age limit for applicants and does not impose any per sonal net- wor th requirement s or minimum busines s inves tment requirement.

A d d i t i o n a ll y, t h e p r o g r a m b o a s t s a f a s t 9 0 - d ay proces sing time.

I n 2 0 24 , t h e N e t h e r l a n d s s e c u r e d i t s s p o t a s o n e of t he s t r o ng e s t e co n o mie s i n t he EU, w i t h a G D P p e r c a p i t a of EU R6 3, 0 0 0. T hi s e c o n o mi c strength creates significant oppor tunities for entrepreneurs looking to establish and grow s t ar tup busines s es. In ad dition, t he gover nment of fer s favour able t ax benefit s for new busines ses, i nc lu d i ng t he s t ar te r ’s d e d u c t io n, w hic h c a n b e utilised up to three times within the first five year s of entrepreneur ship.

CLIENT TALK

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Once you have accumulated five continuous years of legal residence in the Netherlands, you can apply for either permanent residency or citizenship. Both applications require you to pass the civic integration ex am at a minimum lang uag e level of A 2. Ke e p in mind that applying for Dutch citizenship of ten requires you to renounce your current nationalit y, unles s you meet specific exemptions. Given this, many people choose to pursue permanent residency instead, which allows them to maintain their original France nationalit y while enjoying the benefits of living in Türkiye the Netherlands indefinitely.

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The Netherlands Star tup Visa is of fered to United European Kingdom individuals from countries outside of the Canada U ni o n ( EU ), Eu r o p ea n Ec o n o mi c A r ea ( EE A ), o r Swit zerland. To qualif y, you must present a viable and innovative business idea, which can contribute Myanmar Unitedt he StatesD utc h economy. You mus t als o p ositively to India KEY NOTES prove that you have suf ficient funds to reside and Cambodia Dominica develop your star tup business in the Netherlands.Ivory Coast W h e n w o r k i n g w i t h a n e x p e r i e nVietnam c e d f a c i l i t a t o r, Grenada t h e a p p r ov a l r a t e f o r N e t h e r l a n d s St a r t u p V i s a Another critical aspect of the eligibility criteria is that applications is an impressive 90% but it is crucial applicants must secure support from a governmentt o r e c o g ni s e t h a t t h e p r o c e s s p r e s e n t s i t s o w n ap p rove d f acilit ator. T he f acilit ator s er ves as a South Africa challenges. With over 30 recognised governmentmentor, and provides tailored suppor t to address a p p r ove d f a c ili t ato r s, s o m e c ate r exc l u s i vel y to specific needs during your time in the Netherlands. niche sec tors, and each facilitator has distinc t s e l e c t i o n c r i t e r i a, c o m p l i c a t i n g t h e p r o c e s s o f VISA APPLICATION PROCESS finding the right match for your star tup. Developing your business as planned is equally critical. If the The process of applying for the Netherlands Star tup facilitator provides inadequate guidance, this can Visa typically star ts with draf ting a comprehensive hinder your star tup’s grow th and viabilit y. busines s plan t hat highlight s your ac tive role in Founded in 1992, Harvey Group is as premier F u r t multinational h e r m o r e, e nlaw s u r ifirm, n g t specializing h a t y o u r s tin ar tup visa developing the proposed venture.Law This busines ation is prepared ately With is a vit al s tep plan is then reviewed your chosen governmentResidency bybyInvestment (RBI) and Citizen byapplic Investment (CBI) for overaccur 30 years. in different the process and present s it srespective own complexities. approvedover facilitator, who worldwide may request an inter view.

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Harvey Law Group remains the only legacy law firm that specializes in Investment p e r mi t a p p lic at io n p ac k ag e to t he Net he r la n d s Immigration as aTodiscipline. successfully navigate these challenges, engaging immigration authority (IND). wit h re p ut able legal couns el w ho have a s t rong reputation in the field is essential. At Har vey Law PATHWAY TO PERMANENT RESIDENCY Our programs: Gr o u p, we have ove r 3 0 year s of ex p e r ie n c e i n immigration law and have established par tnerships Successful applicants receive a one-year startup visa with facilitators. Our team specialises in reviewing residence permit.

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QUIZ

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! s e i v o M e th t A

20 QUESTIONS How much do you know about Audrey Hepburn and her films?

01. When was Audrey Hepburn born?

A.

Februar y 27, 1927

B.

March 1, 1928

C.

May 4, 1929

02. In The Nun’s Story, what is the name of Hepburn’s character?

A.

Sister William

B.

Sister Luke

C.

Sister Jenny

03. Which meal is referenced in the title of one of Hepburn’s films?

A.

Breakfast

B.

Lunch

C.

Dinner

04. Which 40s film marks Hepburn’s European debut?

A.

Dutch in 7 Lessons

B.

It’s a Wonderful Life

C.

The Best Years of Our Lives

05. What was Hepburn’s middle name?

A.

Katie

B.

Kaitlyn

C.

Kathleen

22

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

QUIZ

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06. How many William Wyler films does Hepburn star in?

14. What is Hepburn’s character’s cat called in Breakfast at Tiffany's?

A.

2

A.

Fred

B.

3

B.

Cat

C.

4

C.

Doc

07. In which country was Hepburn born?

A.

England

B.

Belgium

C.

France

08. What was Hepburn’s favourite food?

A.

French fries

B.

Tiramisu

C.

Pasta

09. Who plays opposite Hepburn in Funny Face?

15. How old was Hepburn when she made her acting debut?

A.

17

B.

19

C.

22

16. What was Hepburn’s favourite designer brand?

D.

Chanel

E.

Burberr y

F.

Givenchy

A.

James Stewar t

B.

Gene Kelly

17. Which film sees Hepburn star alongside Albert Finney?

C.

Fred Astaire

A.

How to Steal a Million

B.

Two for the Road

C.

Paris When It Sizzles

10. Which movie starring Hepburn is titled after a woman’s name?

A.

Sabrina

B.

Mar y

C.

Dorothy

11. How many Best Actress Oscars did Hepburn win?

A.

1

B.

3

C.

5

12. What was Hepburn’s final acting role?

A.

The Unforgiven

B.

Always

C.

They All Laughed

13. Which film launched Hepburn to international stardom?

A.

Charade

B.

Roman Holiday

C.

The Children’s Hour

18. Who does Hepburn play in Charade?

A.

Elizabeth Roffe

B.

Regina Lamper t

C.

Susy Hendrix

19. During WWII, what was Hepburn’s name temporarily changed to?

A.

Edda Van Heemstra

B.

Lieke Van Dijk

C.

Esmée De Smet

20. In which film does Hepburn’s character tell a horse to “move [its] bloomin’ arse”?

A.

My Fair Lady

B.

Wait until Dark

C.

Bloodline You can check your score at www.arounddb.com>post>atthe-movies-audrey-hepburn-quiz AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

23

INSIDER

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! s p i T Top

HARNESSING FIRE HORSE ENERGY

As the Horse canters to centre stage, Ray Au outlines what we can expect from 2026 ILLUSTRATION BY Sarin Ale

Y

ou’re likely aware that, according to Chinese astrology, each year corresponds to one of 12 zodiac animals, in a c ycle that repeat s ever y 12 years. To complicate things a lit tle, each year also corresponds to one of five element s (Fire, Ear th, Metal, Water and Wood), in a c ycle that repeat s ever y five years. 2026 is the Year of the Horse (the last one was in 2014). More specifically, it is the Year of the Fire Horse (the last one was in 1966). So, what does that mean for you?

disposition encourages us to do just that. 2026 is all about moving for ward and embracing new chapters; it calls for transformation, innovation and decisive moves in career, love and lifestyle. For many, it will be a year of significant changes – steel yourself for some big shif ts, par ticularly in relationships.

In Eastern culture, the Horse represent s ac tion, freedom, speed and break through. He reflec t s a stage of life that moves boldly for ward without the fear of obstacles, placing emphasis on being in motion rather than standing still. In simple terms, think: rapid change, fresh oppor tunities, personal grow th and a faster pace of life.

In predic ting what 2026 will bring, we need to take a good look at the Horse’s charac teristics many of which are revealed by his showing at the Great Race.

Folklore tells us that the race was held by the Jade Emperor, the ruler of the heavens, to decide the order of the animals in the Chinese zodiac.

The strong, fast Horse placed seventh, much lower down the leaderboard than most expec ted.

The Year of the Fire Horse is not a quiet guest – it arrives with spark in it s eyes and wind in it s mane, calling each of us to rise, to move, to feel more alive. This is a year that asks us not to hold back – to take the leap, to speak with clarit y, to ac t with courage, and to trust that our inner compass knows the way, even through unfamiliar terrain. 2026 is the year to stop waiting for the ‘right moment ’ and star t listening to the rhy thm of our own steps.

When it comes to major life decisions, it can be dif ficult to let go the reins and just go for it. But this year, the Horse’s optimistic and energetic 24

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

A WILD RIDE

So what went wrong? A crowd favourite, the Horse lingered at the star ting line, soaking up the admiration and applause, and began the race too late. Though he made a power ful comeback and seemed destined for six th place – just behind the super-powered Dragon – he fell vic tim to the

INSIDER

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

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25

INSIDER

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Snake’s cunning. Unbeknownst to the Horse, the Snake had hitched a ride on his leg… the Snake uncoiled at the finish line, star tling the Horse and sneaking ahead. Caught of f guard and losing his footing, the Horse set tled for seventh place, seconds af ter the Snake but still a good way before the Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Within this origin stor y lies the true message of a Horse Year – summon your speed and strength, get back in the race when faced by surprise setbacks, and acknowledge that your naivet y can leave you vulnerable to tricker y.

headed. Staying grounded is key. Not ever y urge needs to be chased, and not ever y oppor tunit y is the right one.

Something else to consider: the fast-moving nature of a Horse Year can easily lead to burnout, so it ’s impor tant to honour the need for movement, while prioritising recover y and self- care. Fire brings additional intensit y, urgenc y and passion, which can feel motivating but also exhausting. Keep an eye on your body’s limit s and energy reser ves, on your emotions and expec tations, especially when new possibilities keep popping up out of nowhere and decisions pile up fast. The Horse encourages you to move with hear t, but Fire reminds you to tread carefully. This year calls for braver y, no doubt, but it also asks for wisdom.

So we know the Horse is strong and resilient, with an innate ability to overcome obstacles, but we also know him to be flighty, headstrong and easily distrac ted. When the Horse has a goal, he reaches his destination ver y quickly but if he is unfocused, he can just as easily run of f a clif f. This year, it matters where you are headed. Set a goal and keep moving toward it, and you can accomplish a great deal.

LUCK AND COMPATIBILITY

Horse years, like 2026, are all about ac tion, ambition and achievement – they’re an oppor tunit y to star t new projec t s, ac t on long-held plans and step into new oppor tunities. Synonymous with yang energy — vitalit y, vision and vigour – the Horse is confident, agreeable and responsible; he’s fit and intelligent, which bodes well for success in the workplace and at home. Just be aware that the Horse is also easily swayed and impatient; he can be reckless and dislikes being reined in by others.

In 2026, therefore, you are well advised to curb that untamed horse energy just a lit tle, and focus on making balanced decisions.

How we will fare in the Year of the Horse also depends on the year we were born – on how well our ‘bir th animal’ get s on with the Horse. The Chinese zodiac animals most compatible with the Horse are the Tiger, Dragon, Goat and Dog, which is fantastic news for all Tigers, Dragons, Goat s and Dogs heading into 2026. In the Tiger and Dragon, the Horse finds a passionate and charismatic companion well able to keep up with his breakneck speed. Conversely, the calming influence of the Goat and Dog vibes well with the high-strung Horse, helping him to feel grounded, while placing him firmly in the alpha role.

THE FIRE ELEMENT The Horse embodies freedom, energy and charm. He craves wide- open spaces and endless skies, never one to stay still for long. Lively and independent, the Horse chases new horizons with a natural confidence that pulls others along for the ride. Now, throw in the Fire element, and you’ve got a Horse that ’s all passion and unstoppable momentum. Fire fuels his ambition, sparks his creativit y and amps up his boldness but it can also make the Horse restless or prone to ac ting on impulse. It ’s a brilliant, blazing force, burning bright and fast.

The Year of the Fire Horse will carr y this same elec tric vibe. It ’s a year to trust your gut, let your emotions shine and express yourself fully. But a word of caution: too much fire can burn out as fast as it flares up. This is a time to take ac tion but with intention. Move for ward, but know where you’re 26

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

Likewise, Rabbit s, Monkeys, Roosters and Pigs should do well in 2026, since they also have a lot to of fer the Horse. The Rabbit ’s pluck y vulnerabilit y appeals, as does the Monkey’s quick wit, the Rooster ’s ambition and the Pig’s optimism.

However, if you were born in the Year of the Rat, Ox or Snake, you should brace yourself for a dicey 2026, with some power struggles and financial challenges ahead. The Rat is too headstrong to appeal to the equally impetuous Horse, the Ox is too steady, and with the Snake there’s simply too much past histor y to overcome (remember what happened in the Great Race).

Meanwhile, those born in a Horse Year are not in as power ful a position as you might think. According to Chinese astrology, we offend the Tai Sui gods in a year that is governed by our bir th animal, meaning we can expect many challenges and unexpected changes. In 2026, Horses are advised to tread with caution, and to invest in some tried-and-tested feng shui remedies. Be sure to carr y a lucky Tiger trinket… and wear red under wear. Gong Hei Fat Choy!

CNY WISH LIST

YEAR OF THE HORSE 2026 SCULPTURE, BACCARAT, HK$4,600 BACC AR AT.COM/ZH _ HK

JACK DANIEL’S TENNESSEE WHISKEY YEAR OF HORSE LIMITED EDITION, HK LIQUOR STORE, HK$308 HKLIQUORSTORE.COM

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RED HORSE TEA, GRAND MODE TEA COLLECTION (110G), TEA WG, HK$388 TEAWG.COM

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE The Year of the Fire Horse gallops in on February 17, here are our must-haves

U YOTH CREW GRAPHIC (BACK), THE NORTH FACE, HK$748 THENORTHFACE.COM.HK

LUNAR NEW YEAR ST HENRI SHIRAZ 2021 (750ML), PENFOLDS, HK$668 PENFOLDS.COM

2026 YEAR OF THE HORSE WEALTH BOWL, ROYAL SELANGOR, HK$1,820 ROYALSELANGOR.COM/HK TANG GINGER FLOWER JEWELLERY BOX, SHANGHAI TANG, HK$597 SHANGHAITANG.COM

HAND-WOVEN, FLORAL APPLIQUÉ TOP, PINKOI, HK$4,700 EN.PINKOI.COM

TANG HORSE WINE STOPPER, SHANGHAI TANG, HK$880 SHANGHAITANG.COM AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

27

! e im T Vacation ESCAPES

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PRAGUE City of Spires REPORTING BY Elena M. Zepeda PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels

DELIVERING THE CHARM OF CENTURIES PAST with a fresh modern vibe, Old Town Prague is a visually rich living museum. It s winding cobblestone street s are lined with a vibrant mix of historic architec ture and trendy cafés and galleries. With more than 30 0 churches rising above it s roof tops, the Czech capital truly earns it s nickname: the Cit y of Spires.

DIVIDED BY THE VLTAVA RIVER,

Prague is united by the iconic Charles Bridge. Built in the 14th century out of Bohemian sandstone, the bridge is lined with 30 baroque statues, plus a throng of street artists, musicians and souvenir sellers.

It’s best seen at sunrise in the early morning mist, or at sunset right when the sky turns gold.

HEARTY AND COMFORTING CZECH CUISINE is all about tradition and rich

flavours. Think tender beef in creamy svíčková sauce, crispy pork knuckle and the ever so wonderful trdelník pastries packed full of sugar and nuts.

Remember to pair your meal with a famous local beer like Kozel or Pilsner Urquell. Savour the city’s culture one bite (and sip) at a time!

28

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

PERCHED HIGH ON HRADČANY HILL, Prague

ESCAPES

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Castle is a masterpiece of medieval and early Renaissance architecture.

Spanning over 70,000 square metres, it is one of the largest castle complexes in the world, also home to St Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace. Golden Lane, on the castle’s southern wall, is lined with tiny, 16th-century houses – many just a few metres wide.

JOSEFOV, PRAGUE’S JEWISH QUARTER, preserves centuries

of culture and history. Visit the Spanish Synagogue, built in 1868 in ornate Moorish Revival style, and the Gothic Altneuschul, Europe’s oldest active synagogue, built in 1270. As you wander Josefov’s narrow streets, be sure to explore the Old Jewish Cemetery with its tightly packed tombstones dating back to 1439.

PRAGUE IS A CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS and arguably

it’s the nightlife that makes it one of Europe’s most-visited cities. Whether you’re up for a classic cocktail at Hemingway Bar, live jazz at U Malého Glena, or an avant-garde, steampunk experience at Cross Club, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for, and more.

AT OLD TOWN SQUARE the incredible architecture spans 800 years from

medieval to Art Nouveau and it’s here you find Prague Orloj, the oldest astronomical clock still operating. Built in 1404, it has an astronomical dial showing the location of the sun and moon, and a calendar dial indicating the month. Sculptures of the apostles pop out when the clock strikes the hour.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

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PARENTING

/

THE SPIRES FAMILY IN DB, 2025

! d e r i T t s u J , s U Still ROMANCE AFTER KIDS

After kids, sexytime doesn’t disappear — it just gets quieter, messier and far more strategic. Andrew Spires reflects on love in the age of bedtime battles PHOTOGRAPHY BY Laura Babb & Depiction by Svetlana

M

30

y wife and I have had some wonder ful Valentine’s days full of excitement and pas sion. A nd then we had kids.

Romance is ver y dif ferent these days though it ’s s till wor th fighting for.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

Keeping a mar riage alive and kicking is challenging at the bes t of times. I met my wife when I was 24, 20 year s ago. We’ve been mar ried for 12 year s and we’re luck y that, for the mos t par t, we’ve ‘grown’ in vaguely the same ment al direc tion, although

PARENTING

/

NANCY AND ANDREW’S PRE-WEDDING SHOOT, 2014

pools of starlight, reflec ting the infinite cosmos of my soul.” Post-Kid: “Have you seen their school trousers? They’re not in the laundr y pile. You get the small one to bed and I’ll sor t the dishes.”

my wife has definitely grown up more than me. I reckon we’re doing OK. Before kids, keeping the romance alive meant lazy weekends cavor ting in various cradles of civilisation, spontaneous weekend getaways to a cosy Cotswold cottage, and stealing a drunken kiss in an alley af ter a night out. Af ter kids, romance is finishing a sentence without being interrupted by a tiny philosopher asking “which is hotter, the sur face of the sun or the centre of the ear th?”, and the greatest luxur y known to humankind is half an hour of total silence.

Af ter 10 rounds of “I’m itchy, I’m thirsty, I’m hungr y and I don’t want to go to school tomorrow”, both monkeys are finally asleep and I’ve fought hard to retain consciousness, the last thing on my mind is a passionate tussle with my wife.

I used to go all out with Valentine’s Day. We’d mostly eat in and I’d spend hours prepping a gastronomic feast. I’d craft a romantic playlist and have Marvin Gaye serenading us as we sipped wine and tucked into Tournedos Rossini before retiring to the bedroom which would be decorated with petals and beautifully scented candles. I’d gift my wife a massage and we’d fall asleep content and cuddled up together.

The arrival of children is less like gaining a family and more like having two adorable, chaotic roommates who have never paid rent, demand constant catering and boast a laissez-faire attitude to cleanliness.

In this delightful chaos, romance doesn’t die; it just goes underground to hibernate, and when it does show its head, sexy time becomes a carefully planned cover t mission executed with the precision of a heist movie.

Once we had kids, the candles became a fire hazard as one child is a moth-like creature drawn to the light and the other would use the candle to set fire to a breadstick. Mar vin Gaye was replaced by the Huntrix soundtrack on a continuous, soul-crushing loop. The wine became a form of sedative to make the mess more bearable and take the edge of f doing the dishes for the 12th time that day. The gourmet meal is reduced to whatever all four of us will eat without complaining and I can knock-up around my work, their homework and the laundr y. The only use Vaseline gets in my house is for dr y elbows.

Romance in the Spires’ household has morphed from: Pre-Kid: “My darling! Your eyes are like

The romantic gesture is no longer a surprise weekend in a ritzy five-star hotel. It’s the slow dance in the AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

31

PARENTING

/

SO, IS THE ROMANCE DEAD? NO. IT HAS SIMPLY EVOLVED FROM A BLAZING, CAREFREE BONFIRE INTO A PILOT LIGHT kitchen at 11pm after the kids are down, the dishes are done and the house has been put back to some sor t of order – the music replaced with the wonder ful sound of silence. It’s a foot rub on the sofa as we stare mindlessly at something dreadful on Netflix.

still knows I love her. I make her a cup of tea ever y morning whilst she sleeps. I leave little notes in her suitcase if she travels for work. I send her random unsolicited messages of profanity but I’m not sure how much she appreciates those.

What’s to be done? Date Night is a great idea but it never quite works out the way we plan. We don’t have a helper so we require my wife’s mother to help out, meaning it’s always on the back of our minds that we can't stay out too late, and the entire evening is haunted by the spec tre of our children.

We make a pac t not to mention the kids but that usually lasts for about half an hour at best.

Romance for us, these days, is holding hands whilst we walk behind the kids as they chat nonsense, catching a look together to acknowledge the little superstars we’ve brought into the world. It’s suppor ting each other in our various endeavours and appreciating life isn’t all roses on the other side of the work fence, and impor tantly, it’s checking in with one another to make sure we’re OK.

So, is the romance dead? No. It has simply evolved from a blazing, carefree bonfire into a pilot light.

It’s there, perpetually on, ready to flare up when given the slightest fuel. A break in childcare due to a tutor visit – bingo! A sleepover at a friend’s house (the kids, not us) – get in there! You need to be ready for any lucky break. The alternative is routine. I have a friend based in the UK, who books a session of bedroom gymnastics with his wife at the same time and same day each week. That does rather take the frisson of excitement out of it but it gets the job done.

I like to break my life down into phases. When I was a young kid growing up on a farm – that’s phase 1.

Then a teenager, phase 2. Then a young adult finding my way through terrible jobs and relationships.

Then meeting and marr ying my wife of nearly 20 years – that’s phase 4. Then came the tiny terrorists, which put me on phase 5. I call this phase of my life ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ – based on the true stor y of Chris Gardner who battles homelessness and single-handedly raising a kid whilst tr ying to make it at life.

In the end, the secret to keeping romance alive af ter kids is to radically redefine what romance is.

So much of my time revolves around the kiddos that I of ten forget my wife is the same person she was before the kids came along. She has the same need to be loved, thought about and cared for that she’s always had. I do my best to make sure she 32

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

Whilst I do have a roof over my head, I’m juggling work, kids, the house and a marriage… and I’m not scared to admit it’s hard. But the thing about phases is they come to an end, and this phase too shall pass.

That’s a shame as having small(ish) kids is really fun and I’ll miss this phase a lot once it slides out of view. But I am looking for ward to date night and a romantic lie-in on a weekend with my beautiful wife.

! t s i L t e k c Bu

GOOD READS

/

MUST-READ ROMANTIC NOVELS 6 classic love stories

GONE WITH THE WIND: MARGARET MITCHELL (1936)

REBECCA: DAPHNE DU MAURIER (1938)

JANE EYRE: CHARLOTTE BRONTË (1847)

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY: JANE AUSTEN (1811)

LITTLE WOMEN: LOUISA MAY ALCOT (1868)

WUTHERING HEIGHTS: EMILY BRONTË (1847)

Scarlett O’Hara is a beautiful and smart Southern belle who always gets what she wants… that is, until her beloved Ashley Wilkes marries someone else.

When dashing Rhett Butler arrives on the scene, he falls for Scarlett, admiring her strength and ambition.

Though they marry, Scarlett’s continued obsession with Ashley undermines their chance of happiness.

Jane, an orphan who suffered from constant mistreatment in her childhood, grows into a strong and independent young woman. She becomes the governess at Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with her mysterious boss, Mr Rochester. When he reveals the shocking truth about his past, Jane must choose between following her heart or her principles.

Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy, the March sisters, grow up in New England with big dreams and even bigger hearts. They each want different things out of life: Meg seeks the domestic ideal, Jo wants independence, Beth hopes to never leave the family home, and Amy pursues status and security. Each sisters’ wish is fulfilled though in ver y unexpected ways.

A young, unnamed narrator embarks on a whirlwind romance with Maxim de Winter, a wealthy widower – they marry in Monte Carlo before moving to Manderley, his grand Cornish estate. There, she finds herself overshadowed by the lingering presence of his first wife, Rebecca, and she begins to realise that some pieces of the past refuse to stay buried.

Elinor and Marianna Dashwood are two sisters who could not be more different: one is ruled by her head, and the other by her heart. After their family fortune passes to their brother, the sisters, confined by society’s expectations, must find financially viable husbands. Marianne’s romantic approach stands in her way and, surprisingly, so does Elinor’s cautiousness.

Growing up together, Catherine Earnshaw and the orphaned Heathcliff form a deep, passionate bond – they run wild on the Yorkshire moors, share secrets and understand each other completely. When Catherine breaks up with Heathcliff, and marries Edgar Linton for his money, Heathcliff is consumed by bitterness and sets out to wreak his revenge.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

33

Q UKI IZD S / C O R N E R

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! y a B y r e v o c s i D in te a e r C k in h T y la P BRAIN BOOSTER!

CHINESE NEW YEAR FUN FACTS!

Chinese New Year is one of the most exciting festivals in Hong Kong, and this year it starts on February 17! Learn how to say Gong Hey Fat Choy (pronounced Gong-hee-faat-choy) – Happy New Year in Cantonese.

RED PLUS GOLD EQUALS LUCK

DUMPLINGS LOOK LIKE TREASURE

Red and gold decorations are used to bring happiness and good fortune.

Because of their shape, eating dumplings is a way to wish for wealth and good fortune.

DRAGONS BRING STRENGTH

LANTERNS SHOW THE WAY

Dragon dances are performed to scare away bad luck and welcome a happy new year.

Brightly lit lanterns stand for hope, happiness and good luck.

RED PACKETS SHARE BLESSINGS

2O26 YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE

Adults give kids (and people who help them) red packets (lai see) containing a HK$20 note

Each year is named after an animal in the Chinese Zodiac, like the Horse, Goat or Monkey.

THIS MONTH’S CHALLENGE! Draw a CNY Fire Horse!

Use paints, crayons, pencils, or anything you like. Any size, any style – just have fun!

The CNY Fire Horse loves red, so don’t be shy with bright, fiery colours!

Ask a grown-up to email your artwork to rachel@arounddb.com.

You might see it in the next issue!

34

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

You can discover more about CNY by picking up Hong Kong author Sarah Brennan’s Chinese zodiac series of children’s books. The one to read this year is The Tale Of A Dark Horse: it’s 135BC and Emperor Han Wudi is desperate for a horse… but not just any horse. The horse he wants is tall, dark, handsome, and as free as a gipsy. Will Wudi get his wish? @sarahbrennanblog.com

K I D S C O R N QE UR I Z / /

MAKE IT!

HEART MESSAGE JAR FOR VALENTINE’S DAY A sweet surprise filled with kind words for someone you love YOU’LL NEED: •

An empty jar or small container

•

Coloured paper (pink, red, white)

•

Scissors

•

Pen or marker

•

Stickers or washi tape

•

Optional: ribbon or glitter

TRY THIS!

HOW TO MAKE IT:

•

Make one for mum, dad, grandparents, or a friend

•

Add one heart for every day of February

•

Use different colours for different people

1.

Cut your paper into small heart shapes

2.

Write kind messages on each heart (You make me smile, I love you, You’re the best!)

3.

Fold the hearts and place them inside the jar

4.

Decorate the outside with stickers or ribbon

5.

Give it to someone special on Valentine’s Day

BONUS PUZZLE! WILD MAZE FUN

Think smart and find the path AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

35

' s e r i p S w e Andr

DB FACES

/

COMMUNITY SNAPS

PHOTOS BY Andrew Spires andrew.j.c.spires@gmail.com

36

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

CLASSIFIEDS

Help expand the ADB archives!

The magazine archives at arounddb.com go back to our first ever issue in October 2002 but we are missing some issues from the very early days – 2002 to 2010.

Weʼd love to hear from you if you have any old copies that would help us fill these gaps.

Weʼd scan and return them! Please email us at admin@arounddb.com.

• Use the food-waste bins and the plastic-bottle, paper, metal, glass and drink-box recycling bins located in every village • Recycle contact lens packaging at South Plaza

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• Deposit good-condition toys in the DB Mothers & Friends’ collection boxes (located at Costa Court, Brilliance Court and Midvale bus stop), and barely-used clothes in one of the many smart bins located around DB

a unique open-air shopping experience in DB South Plaza

WEEKLY RECYCLING POP-UP (EVERY TUESDAY) Did you know you can ONLY recycle plastic bottles #1 and #2, paper, metal and glass in your building's recycling bins?

Infront of Parkridge 10am - 1pm, 2.30 - 5.30pm

Recycle other plastics, including polyfoam (polystyrene), liquid cartons (Tetra Paks), rechargeable batteries, energy-saving light bulbs and waste electronics,

at the WEEKLY RECYCLING POP-UP Find out more at the Islands Recycling Station FB page.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

37

LOCAL NUMBERS

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DISCOVERY BAY EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 China Light & Power ················································· 2728 8333 DB Fire & Ambulance ················································ 2987 7502 DB Transportation Services Limited ··························· 2987 7351 Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline ······························· 2435 4511 Lantau North Police Report Room ····························· 3661 1694 Water Fault Reports ················································· 2811 0788 FINANCE & BUSINESS Co-working Space@DB Hybrid workspace encouraging interaction between members.

The hi-tech, ergonomic interior is boosted by a spacious outdoor lounge area Located at DB North. Call 2426 8828

Bank of China ·························································· 2160 8585 HSBC ······································································· 2233 3000 Monx ······································································· 5286 0155 T8 Consulting ··························································· 2517 8248 HOME & REPAIRS Chameleon Design & Interiors ··································· 9219 8169 Good Luck Engineering ············································· 2987 1313 Green Clean ····························································· 5644 1167 Greenland Pest Control ············································ 9871 0771 Island Cleaning Solutions ········································· 6091 5176 Open Kitchen Contractor ········································· 9278 9319 Rich Point Hardware Materials ··································· 2987 0789 Synergy Pest Control ················································· 5604 3950 Tai Fat Hardware Store ·············································· 2987 0789 HOTELS Auberge Discovery Bay Five-star hotel in DB North with 22 mountain/ ocean-view rooms & suites. Meetings & events, dining, wellness & recreation. 25 minutes from HKIA. Call 2295 8288

LAWYERS & INSURANCE Harvey Law Group International law firm offering a wide range of commercial & personal legal services, including investment residency programmes. Meeting facilities in DB North. Call 2416 8618

Manulife ··································································· 9172 9152 KIDS CLUBS DBees ······································································ 9867 9240 Funfit ······································································· 6302 6327 HK Dragons Football Club Coaching for girls & boys aged 2.5 to 14 years at DBIS & DB North pitches. The professional coaches (FA level 2 or above) are First Aid & CPR qualified. Call 2987 4274

Harry Wright Trusted swim partner offering expert-led lessons at Club Siena with a structured progression system, small group sizes & international-standard coaching. Call 2575 6279

iGym Gymnastics ······················································ 6077 2758 Jungle School ··························································· 9095 7250 Living Oceans ··························································· 6701 9203 Tekkerz Curriculum for U3 to U14 boys & girls designed to develop technical skills & overall game play by using a ‘maximum touch’ approach. Training at DB North pitch. Call 9770 4548

38

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

The Performer’s Studio Theatre Company ·················· 6894 7243 Tinytots Soccer ························································ 3488 7724 Treasure House ························································ 2987 4217 YRock ······································································· 6180 0817 LANGUAGE TUITION Dr Bear Education Centre ········································· 9685 7856 Japanese Private Tutor ·············································· 9462 0550 Mandarin for Munchkins ············································ 2480 3909 Mandarin Time ························································· 6111 0523 Yifan Mandarin ························································· 9208 7611 Zhi Zhi Chinese ························································· 9648 2966 LEARNING CENTRES & SCHOOLS Bayview House of Children ········································ 6114 2436 Discovery Bay International School ···························· 2987 7331 DBIS Kindergarten ···················································· 2914 2142 Discovery College ···················································· 3969 1000 Discovery Mind ························································· 2987 8088 Discovery Montessori Academy ································· 2812 9206 Discovery Montessori School ····································· 2987 1201 Guidepost Montessori················································ 2185 6134 HKILA ······································································· 2416 3198 La Petite Enfance Kindergarten ·································· 6071 3136 Mathemagic (home tutoring) ····································· 9135 4724 Open Book Learning Hub Phonics & literacy programmes designed to nurture kids’ reading, writing, spelling & language skills through personalised instruction. Located in DB South. Call 9665 8740

S.K.H. Wei Lun Primary School ·································· 2987 8608 Woodentots Montessori Playgroup ···························· 6108 9131 MEDICAL Bayside Dental (DB Plaza) ·········································· 2285 8068 Bayside Dental (DB North) ········································· 2987 0855 Central Health at Discovery Bay ································ 2987 7575 North Lantau Hospital ··············································· 3467 7000 Quality Health Medical Centre ·································· 2987 5633 Lok Kwan Home Care Service ···································· 2803 2103 MOVERS Bernardo Removals ·················································· 9854 4410 FTC Relocations ······················································· 2814 1658 ReloSmart ································································ 2561 3030 Rocket Movers ·························································· 5134 0044 PLACES OF WORSHIP DB Alliance Church ··················································· 2987 8136 DB Anglican Church ·················································· 2987 4210 DB International Community Church ·························· 2987 7061 Trinity Chapel ··························································· 3590 8017 REALTORS Centaline Property Agency ········································ 2987 8484 Century 21 Newcourt Realty ······································ 2987 9729 EPS Property Consultants Ltd DB’s trusted property consultants for buying, selling & renting homes. Top listings & expert guidance provided for first-time buyers, seasoned sellers & renters. Call 2987 2023

Headland Homes ······················································ 2987 2088 Homes R Us ······························································ 2662 1878 Kingsland ································································· 2987 2987 Land Master Property················································· 2987 6238 Midland Realty ·························································· 2987 2888 Okay.com ································································· 2102 0888

LOCAL NUMBERS

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DISCOVERY BAY Pacific Estate ····························································

2987 2928

RECREATION BMSE Community Centre ········································· 2259 3422 Club Siena ······························································· 29877382 DB Football Club ····················································· 9770 4548 DB Golf Club ··························································· 2987 7273 DB Ice Rink ······························································ 2234 0187 DB North Community Centre ···································· 2987 8136 DB Recreation Club ·················································· 2987 7381 Lantau Boat Club ······················································ 9377 3074 Lantau Yacht Club ····················································· 2987 9591 RESIDENTIAL SERVICES DB Office Centre ······················································ 2238 3388 DB Lost & Found ······················································ 3651 2345 DB Services Management ········································· 2238 3601 RESTAURANTS Café Bord de Mer & Lounge ····································· 2295 8299 Coffee Academics ···················································· 2882 2280 DBrasserie ······························································· 9848 1101 Dough Bros ······························································ 2408 0448 Ebeneezer’s ······························································ 2987 0036 Quality Cuts ····························································· 2172 6111 Feather & Bone ························································ 5198 1831 Figos Seaside Café ··················································· 2987 2995 il Bel Paese Heart-warming dishes made from the freshest ingredients provide the ultimate Italian experience. Simple & inviting decor. Located in DB South Plaza. Call 2987 0202

JOO Korean Grill & Bar ············································· 2234 6118 Koh Tomyums Thai ···················································· 2987 0767 Levain Bakery ··························································· 2726 4922 Liang She Han Buy Good ·········································· 3618 7827 McDonald’s ······························································ 2987 1033 MOOJOO Lifestyle Café ··········································· 5122 5928 ÓNA ········································································ 3619 0937 Osmanbey Turkish Restaurant ··································· 5401 8350 Pachanga ································································· 2626 3008 Pasha ······································································· 6340 0903 Peony ······································································· 2215 0833 Pho Bay ···································································· 3619 0932 PizzaExpress ····························································· 3164 1340 Smokey Joe’s ···························································· 5784 7101 Spicy Tiger ······························································· 2328 3383 Subway ···································································· 2914 0005 Sunset Bay Bar & Grill ··············································· 2787 7788 Sushi No En······························································· 3705 9984 Taste of Thai······························································ 2987 2010 The Chippy ······························································· 2987 8688 The Pier Bar······························································· 2520 2166

European Touch ························································ 2918 0868 Fusion ······································································ 2987 7486 Genius Loci ······························································ 5633 5088 Gillian Florist ··························································· 2529 8256 Greenmont Kids ······················································· 5345 1451 il Bel Paese Express ·················································· 2997 6303 Island Wake ······························································ 2636 0601 Japan Home Centre ·················································· 2987 1041 Market Place & IKEA ················································· 2947 9092 P-Solution ································································ 2987 1777 Star Mart ·································································· 2366 6534 The Optical House ···················································· 2987 1368 Toysland ··································································· 2987 7859 Watson’s ··································································· 2987 4089 Watson’s Wine ·························································· 2987 0268 SPORTS 24/7 Fitness ······························································ 6538 2247 DB Pirates ································································ 9255 6133 DB Runners ······························································ 5646 2946 DMR ········································································ 5210 7208 Embody ··································································· 6624 8712 HK Yoga ··································································· 6113 6770 Island Dance ···························································· 9159 0663 Kaisei Ryu Ju Jitsu ···················································· 5315 0227 Kipmovin ································································· 6436 3308 Korea Taekwondo Cheung Do Kwan ·························· 9663 8077 The Beat ·································································· 5721 3000 The Golf Bay ···························································· 2856 5188 The Running Cult ······················································ 5629 8123 Yoga Bay ·································································· 6704 9851 Yogika ······································································ 6749 7836 YogaUP ···································································· 6805 4996 Zumba with Dionina De Guzman ······························· 9317 6793 TRANSPORTATION DB Golf Cart Services ··············································· 2914 2727 DB Transportation Services ······································· 2987 7351 Limousine Rental ······················································ 5303 3489 VETERINARY SERVICES & PETS Island Veterinary Services ········································· 2987 9003 My Pet Shop ····························································· 2987 8873 Pet Space Club ························································· 2788 1599 The Dog’s Garden ····················································· 2987 2077 WELLBEING & BEAUTY Afflatus Hair Workshop ············································· 2987 0283 DB Bay Spa ····························································· 9837 0969 Dream Nail ······························································· 9206 7349 Elly House Of Beauty ················································ 6131 9039 Herbal Health Care ··················································· 2834 7276 Salon De Coiffure ····················································· 2987 4112 Sophia Essentials ······················································ 2527 0118 Spa Botanica ······························································ 2295 8129

The Rink – Bar Grill & Restaurant Steakhouse, specialising in modern international cuisine with a dedicated kids’ menu. Pet-friendly, located in DB South Plaza Extension overlooking DB Ice Rink. Call 5444 6046

Three Sheets Marquee Bar ········································ 2987 0966 Uncle Russ ································································ 2840 1188 Viet Bu Tong Kitchen & Bar········································ 2338 8970 SHOPPING 7-Eleven ··································································· 2299 1110 Bloom ······································································ 6117 7653 Circle K ···································································· 2991 6337 Coco Express ··························································· 9220 3527 Cosmo Computers ···················································· 5136 1799

VIEW OUR ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY AT AROUNDDB.COM To add your directory listing, call the Around DB office on 6117 1889 or email info@arounddb.com

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

39

AT A GLANCE

/

! y a D s ' e Valentin

LOVE BY THE NUMBERS How the world celebrates February 14

THE BUSINESS OF LOVE

O WE CELEBRAT H W E 9

KEY STATS

%

spent on jewellery – love a bit of bling

41%

145 MILLION

$6.4 BILLION 13%

Valentine’s cards exchanged each year

on experiences – dinners & shows

6 MILLION

15 %

couples get engaged on Valentine’s Day

53%

ps Tuli

12%

ons ati rn

11%

8%

TRENDS FOR 2026 AI-generated love notes & custom poems

on cards – the all-time classic

Ca

oses kr in

P

R

$1.2 BILLION

69%

40

on chocolates – half the world agrees

on flowers – roses still #1

22%

FLOWERS SENT

Eco-friendly gifts (recycled cards, sustainable flowers)

$2.3 BILLION $1.9 BILLION

of people plan to celebrate

s rose ed

$4.2 BILLION

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ALGORITHM it’s too 47% say commercial

Virtual date experiences (VR concerts & tours)

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2026

Personalised gifts powered by design tools

Solo Valentine’s Day becoming mainstream

pressure to 26% feel spend singles celebrate 39% ofAnti-Valentine’s Day

We’re

Hiring

Do you love Discovery Bay as much as we do? We’ve been covering local life for 20+ years, and as we continue to grow, we’re inviting creative and motivated DBers to become part of our small but dynamic team.

Available Positions

Business Development Manager Deputy/ Assistant Editor (experience dependent)

What We’re Looking For

What We Offer

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Creativity, initiative and ability to work independently • Experience in media, publishing, sales or marketing (role dependent) • Discovery Bay resident

• Friendly, community-focused working environment • Opportunity to be part of a respected local publication • Flexible working arrangements (full-time, part-time, WFH) • Competitive remuneration + commission

Office Location: Discovery Bay North Plaza, Lantau Island To Apply: Please send your CV, a brief introduction and relevant portfolio (if applicable) to contact@harveylawcorporation.com.

HARVEY LAW GROUP (HLG) a worldwide presence expediating your immigration goals

United Kingdom France

Canada

Türkiye

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Founded in 1992, Harvey Law Group is a premier multinational law firm, specializing in Residency by Investment (RBI) and Citizen by Investment (CBI) for over 30 years. With over 20 offices worldwide representing over 30 different countries and their respective Investment Immigration programs, Harvey Law Group has provided its services to over 10,000 families from all around the world. As the demand for Investment Immigration programs grows, various emerging companies have latched on to the service offering, but Harvey Law Group remains the only legacy law firm that specializes in Investment Immigration as a discipline.

Our programs: Residency by Investment in over 6 continents over 20 countries

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T: +852 2416 8618

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