Around DB July 2025

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J U LY 2 0 2 5 | D I S CO V E R Y B AY ' S O R I G I N A L CO 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

PLASTIC FREE JULY

Get serious about reducing your plastic footprint

BEST PARTY IN TOWN Behind the scenes at Nextwave XX25

Splashtastic!

MARY CRUZ’S LIFE-CHANGING JOURNEY

FROM SWIM TRAINEE TO VOLUNTEER COACH

DB REAL ESTATE

Cash in now while prices are still below peak

SUMMER STAYCATION Our round-up of HK’s best beaches

AROUNDDB.COM

500 HOURS Yoga Teacher Training Courses in Discovery Bay

Daily Yoga classes and packages also avaliable

DB North Plaza, Block 2, LG Unit 2 | 6113 6770 | hkyoga.ru/db

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SUMMER HOLIDAY 2025 暑期游泳班 OPEN FOR ENROLMENT 現正招生 Club Siena, Discovery Bay 愉景灣海澄湖畔會所 Daily Programme: Monday to Saturday, June 30 - August 15 Weekly Camps (3 and 5-day Camps): June 30 - August 15

Join any time! Our classes are pro-rated, so you only pay for the lessons left in the term when you sign up. Don't wait, join Hong Kong’s Premier Swim School Today!

游泳課程按堂數收費 (由報名當日至課程 結束)，報名時只需付餘下堂數即可，歡迎 您隨時參加！ +852 2575 6279

Indoor Heated Pool

Low Ratios

Pro-Rated

Enrol at Club Siena or DBRC Reception Members & Non-members

swimming@harrywright.com.hk

Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence Harry Wright Swim School Established in 1975

www.harrywright.com.hk

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J U LY 2 0 2 5 W W W. A R O U N D D B .CO M

POGGIBONSI

16 PROFILE Mary Cruz discusses Splash Foundation, and how learning to swim has helped her find her voice

20 COMMUNITY It’s Plastic Free July: have you pledged to get serious about reducing your plastic footprint?

28 PARENTING Planning a getaway with the kids? We have some essential travel tips to get you started

32 INSIDER DB is on the road to real estate market recovery: cash in now while prices are still below peak AROUND DB / JULY 2025

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FEATURES

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REGULARS

AGENDA

36 ESCAPES

06 DB NEWS

HEADLAND DRIVE

HK’s best beaches

41 HOME CHEF

Energising snacks

42 QUIZ

20 questions

52 AT A GLANCE

Nextwave XX25

C O M M U N I T Y

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I N F L U E N C E R S

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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

Get serious about reducing your plastic footprint

BEST PARTY IN TOWN Behind the scenes at Nextwave XX25

Splashtastic!

MARY CRUZ’S LIFE-CHANGING JOURNEY

FROM SWIM TRAINEE TO VOLUNTEER COACH

DB REAL ESTATE

Cash in now while prices are still below peak

SUMMER STAYCATION HK’s best beaches

AROUNDDB.COM

12 EVENT ROUND-UP 44 PUZZLES 47 DB FACES 49 LOCAL NUMBERS

ON THE COVER

If you have an event we can help

Splasher Mary Cruz training at DBIS pool

featured or an idea for an article,

J U LY 2 0 2 5 | D I S CO V E R Y B AY ' S O R I G I N A L CO 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

PLASTIC FREE JULY

10 SUMMER CAMPS

PHOTO BY Andrew Spires

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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. © AROUND DB 2025

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AROUND DB / JULY 2025

DISCOUNTS FOR ADB READERS AT HK YOGA Maxim Gagarin at HK Yoga in DB North Plaza is offering a 10% discount to Around DB readers who sign up for a 500-hour Teacher Training Course

by August 31. The course starts on September 8 and finishes at the end of December – it is held in two groups: weekday group (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 11am to 3pm) and weekend group (Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 3pm). Daily yoga classes and packages are also available. To enrol with a 10% discount, scan the QR code.

The Next wave X X25 Beach Music Festival is ready to rock Tai Pak Beach on July 5 and 6. Headliners to catch include Joey Hung Ka Ho and Eric Chou on July 5, and ITZ Y and Chung Ha on July 6. The fun kicks of f at 3pm on July 5 and 3.30pm on July 6. General admission tickets are priced at HK$788, with special discounts available on Klook. To find out more, turn to page 52, or visit w w w.visitdscover ybay.com. To grab tickets, head to w w w.klook.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF HKRCL.]

s g in n e Happ

STUFF TO

DBEE OASIS: CREATING A BUZZ

Take a stroll through Central Park and you’ll find the all-new DBee Oasis right by the kids’ playground. The projec t was initiated by HKRI’s corporate volunteer team HKRI Care & Share with the aim to ensure a sustainable future for both bees and humans.

Bee species are facing a decline in population worldwide, with wild bee populations particularly at risk. Threats include habitat loss, climate change, pesticide use and disease. The ‘bee hotels’ at DBee Oasis are designed to provide essential floral and water sources, along with safe resting spots for bees. The initiative will contribute to the sustainable growth of the urban ecosystem by supporting pollinators within a 2km radius, including Siu Ho Wan Bus Depot and Discovery Bay Golf Club.

The HKRI Care & Share team has par tnered with Hong Kong Metropolitan Universit y to install instruments to monitor pollinating insec ts and study the genetic make-up of plants. Samples and valuable data will be collec ted and used for assessing biodiversit y; it is hoped that statistical analysis will lead to ac tionable recommendations for enhancing urban sustainabilit y.

DBee Oasis of ficially launched on May 15 to coincide with World Bee Day (May 20) and International Biodiversit y Day (May 22). Jill Kwong, co-founder of local bee conser vation organisation Beetales, was a guest of honour, alongside HKRI representatives and DB stakeholders. DBee Oasis marks a new chapter in conser vation ef for ts in our communit y with the HKRI Care & Share team set ting out to raise awareness and encourage biodiversit y.

DB NEWS

DB SUMMER SPLASHTOPIA

DB Summer Splashtopia kicks of f on July 24, and will be in place through August 31. Open daily from 10.30am to 1.30pm and 3pm to 6.30pm on Tai Pak Beach, it’s billed as Hong Kong’s biggest beach water park. You can expec t eight massive inflatable bouncy areas and a 10 -metre water slide, along with a myriad splashtastic games and spor ts. [PHOTO BY Sarin Ale.]

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ORGANIC FARMING WORKSHOP Sign up for a hands-on introduc tion to organic farming at DB Communit y Green Square on July 12 from 2pm to 5pm. The class is conduc ted in English and Cantonese by instruc tors from K-Farm. Each par ticipant gets a plastic flower pot, pot ting soil, organic fer tiliser, seeds and seedlings. You get to learn ever y thing from pre-planting preparation and seedling cultivation to planting, watering, fer tilising and pruning. To enrol, call 5469 1748.

KNOW IN JULY!

SPECIAL OFFERS AT DISNEYLAND

If you’re looking to create magical memories at Hong Kong Disneyland this July, check out the exciting discount s on of fer. If you book a stay at a resor t hotel for t wo night s or more, you can enjoy 30% of f the realtime room rate. And for just HK$10 0 more than the full price of a one- day ticket, you can enter the park t wo days in a row. To make a booking and f ind out more, visit w w w.hongkongdisneyland.com.

OFFLOAD UNWANTED HOUSEHOLD ITEMS DB PIRATES: NEW SEASON SIGN-UP DB Pirates is on the lookout for new players of all ages and gender to join its hockey, netball, rugby and dragon boat teams. Founded in 20 03 and known as DB’s ‘friendliest spor ting club’, DB Pirates continues to go from strength to strength, with teams competing successfully across Hong Kong and beyond. To register for the new season, and learn about volunteering and sponsorship oppor tunities, visit w w w.dbpirates.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Hank Terrebrood.]

Relocating this month or simply having a clear-out? Know that you can donate preloved household items to people in need through DB Mothers & Friends. The DB-based social enterprise provides door-todoor collec tion for ever y thing from furniture and elec tronic appliances to toys, clothes and books, and then delivers them via social workers to local charities, schools, churches and people in need. To arrange for pickup, WhatsApp 9677 6676 or visit FB @dbmf.collec tion.

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

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DB NEWS

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LANTAU 2 PEAKS REGISTRATION

Registration is open for the CBRE Lantau 2 Peaks, organised

by Action Asia Events, and the two peaks in question are, of course, Lantau and Sunset. There are two distances: the 23km (two peaks: elevation gain 1,889m), which you can run solo, with a partner or in a team of four, and the 15km (half peak: elevation gain 854m), which is run solo. To sign up to race on October 5, visit www.actionasiaevents.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Action Asia Events.]

AQUARIUM-MAKING WORKSHOP

Sign up solo or as a group to take par t in an aquarium-making workshop at the Multipurpose Hall, DB Of fice Centre on July 12 from 10am to 12pm. You get to take home an aquarium (12cm x 8cm x 10cm) containing t wo small fish, t wo figurines, decorative rocks and aquatic plants. The family-friendly class is taught in Cantonese and English by instruc tors from Concept X Plus. To know more and enrol, call 5469 1748.

ZHUANG YUAN JAYLEN Congratulations go to Year 1 Discovery College student Jaylen Zheng, who was named Overall Champion (Zhuang Yuan) at this year’s Chinese Language Festival.

Jaylen took part in five competitions at the festival, competing against native-speaking kindergarten-aged students from all over the world. He placed first in Western Instrument Performance, Ancient Poems Solo Recitation, Tongue Twisters and Reading out Pinyin Words, and second runner-up in Modern Poems Solo Recitation. The awards ceremony was held on June 7. Bravo Jaylen!

NO BUTTS DAY

On No But ts Day – July 5 – thousands of volunteers collec t hundreds of thousands of plastic cigaret te filters from their local streets, parks, trails and beaches. No But ts Day is an ef fec tive way to raise awareness about the environmental damage caused by cigaret te lit ter, and call for a ban on plastic cigaret te filters, a major source of toxic pollution. You can take par t by organising your own event or joining an existing one. Count your but ts and fill in the form at the QR code to get your data included in the global count.

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AROUND DB / JULY 2025

CONTACT LENS PACKAGING RECYCLING Contact lens packaging – particularly plastic blister packs and their foil lids – is notoriously difficult to recycle. While many opticians and retailers offer specialised recycling programmes for these items, there’s a simpler solution for DB residents. You can drop separated blister packs and lids at the DB Office Centre weekdays (9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm) and on Saturdays (9am to 1pm).

AC CLEANING AS LOW AS

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Established in 2011, we relocate homes and offices throughout Hong Kong. We also have experience moving families on and off boats, ensuring smooth transitions. Full packing and unpacking services are available if required, as is furniture disposal.

Look to us too for handyman jobs like hanging TVs, frames and mirrors.

www.gchongkong.com

Home and office relocation all around Hong Kong, including inner and outer islands.

Call us for a quotation.

9854 4410 berndacosta@gmail.com

Storage space rental also available in DB. CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS

Summer Camps!

Activities Guide for DB Kids

CHILD DEVELOPMENT

GYMNASTICS

MANDARIN

SP OT C H I LDRE N ’S TH E R APY C E NTRE

I GYM GYM N A S T I C S

MANDARIN TIME

www.igymhk.com

www.mandarintimeschool.com

SPOT Summer Camps, in Central and Wong Chuk Hang, are focused on social skills, emotional regulation, fine motor skills and literacy. Each venue features a purpose -built, sensorymotor therapy gym that allow kids, aged 3 to 11, to engage in enriching sensory experiences and group activities. Fun-filled sessions are on offer until August 15, helping kids thrive in a supportive environment.

The iGym Gymnastics and Ninja Camp is open to joiners until August 22 at iGym’s newly launched Gymnastics Academy in DB Nor th Plaza. M orning, af ternoon and full - day sessions are on of fer M onday to Saturday. Fun, age - appropriate activities in both gymnastics and ninja zones give kids, aged 3 to 10, the oppor tunit y to develop their skills, make new friends and have a blast.

The Mandarin Time DB Camp runs from July 7 to August 15 in DB Nor th Plaza and provides children, aged 10 to 15, with a 10 0% M andarin speaking environment. Courses are available M onday to Friday from 9.30am to 3pm: kids, aged 13 to 15, focus on IGCSE Chinese preparation, and there are three levels of tuition (upper elementar y, intermediate and native) for kids aged 10 to 13.

Tel: 2807 2992 Email: contact@spot.com.hk

WhatsApp: 6077 2758 Email: igymhk@icloud.com

WhatsApp: 6153 7108 Email: info@mandarintimeschool.com

w w w. s p o t . c o m . h k

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AROUND DB / JULY 2025

MANDARIN

MONTESSORI

NATURE

Y I FA N M A N DA R I N

GUIDEPOST MONTESSORI

ARK EDEN

www.yifancamps.com The Yifan Mandarin Summer Camp at DB North Plaza is fully immersive and activit y based. The week-long camps run from July 7 to August 8, Monday to Friday, 9.10am to 10.40am (ages 3 to 5) and 10.45am to 12.15pm (ages 6 to 9). Multi-week discounts are available until June 30.

w w w.guidepost.hk

www.arkedenonlantau.org

孩子們快樂學中文，語言能力大提升！

Guidepost Montessori’s Cosmic Adventure Summer Camp runs weekly from July 2 to July 25 at the DB North Plaza campus. Children, aged 2 to 6, get to explore life on Earth and beyond through hands- on activities, stor ytelling, creative crafts, science discoveries and sensor y experience, fostering curiosit y and empathy about the universe.

Ark Eden is a magical space nestled on a hillside in Mui Wo where children, aged 5 to 11, can explore the great outdoors, make new friends and build confidence through engaging, nature -based play. Choose from weekly camps on offer until August 22. Camp leaders are skilled in Experiential Education, Forest School principles, Social Emotional Wellness and Wilderness First Aid.

WhatsApp: 9208 7611 Email: admin@yifanmandarin.com

WhatsApp: 9126 6211 Email: admissions@guidepost.hk

Tel: 2988 5355 Email: angus@arkedenonlantau.org

OUTDOOR

SURFING

THEATRE

TREASURE ISLAND GROUP

H O N G KO N G S U R F I N G LE SS O N

FAUST INTERNATIONAL YOUTH THEATRE

一帆中文夏令營在愉景灣開展超過十六年；助

www.treasureislandhk.com Treasure Island Group’s Summer Camps – Surf, Adventure, Explorers, eXtreme and Little Kids Club – are running until August 22 at Pui O Beach and are bookable by the week or day. From surfing and kayaking to wetland tours and waterfall hiking, kids, aged 4 to 14, get to experience a wide range of outdoor activities, whilst making new friends and developing eco - awareness and life skills.

www.hongkongsurfinglesson.com

w w w.f a us t wo r l d .c om

Hong Kong Surfing Lesson’s one- or threeday, non-overnight camps are on offer until August 27 at Lower Cheung Sha Beach. Children, aged 5 to 14, get their own surfboard to maximise their surfing time. Camps are run by professional ISAqualified instructors, who help kids progress by making surfing fun and safe. Lessons are also available daily for beginner to intermediate surfers of all ages.

Faust’s HK-wide summer programme is available until August 22, with weeklong courses in Summer Theatre for 3- to 18-year-olds, Musical Theatre for 8- to 18-year-olds, and Creative Writing for 6- to 14-year-olds. In any given week, children experience a funfilled learning environment in which to develop leadership and teamwork skills, individual expression and confidence.

Tel: 5236 7016 Email: inquiries@treasureislandhk.com

WhatsApp: 6199 0904 Email: info@hongkongsurfinglesson.com

Tel: 2547 9114 Email: info@faustworld.com

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

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EVENT ROUND-UP

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! t u o b A & Out

WHAT YOU'VE BEEN UP TO! AT THE COMMUNITY GALA BALL Discovery College PTA and Discovery Bay International School PTSA hosted a joint-school gala ball on the evening of May 24. The glitzy parent-driven, parent-organised event was open to the whole community and themed ‘A Night in Old Hong Kong’. [PHOTOS BY Col Sim.]

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AROUND DB / JULY 2025

EVENT ROUND-UP

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IGYM’S GYMNASTICS ACADEMY LAUNCH

iGym launched a Gymnastics Academy in DB North Plaza on May 22 to coincide with its 12th anniversary. The fully-equipped junior gymnastics centre is an ideal training space for children aged 18 months to nine years. Kim Doherty and her team will continue to coach iGym seniors (nine years and above) out of DBIS. [PHOTOS BY Andrew Spires.]

AT ALICE: THE MUSICAL

Performers Studio staged Paul Boyd’s Alice: The Musical on May 17 at Y Studio, Chai Wan. The all-DB cast included Lucie Decamps as Alice, Sophia Rumsam as The Queen of Hearts, Verabella Tsang as The Cheshire Cat, Jia Toong as The Caterpillar and Lucia Torresi as The Mad Hatter.

[PHOTOS BY Stuart at Six Cat Studios & Mirko Sciolan.]

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

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EVENT ROUND-UP

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AT A COMMUNITY BEACH CLEAN-UP Plastic Free Seas held a beach clean-up on June 15, with volunteers meeting at the gate to Nim Shue Wan. Gloves and trash bags were provided. The team is taking a break in July but you can sign up to help clean a beach in August by emailing dana@plasticfreeseas.org. [PHOTOS

BY Andrew Spires.]

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AROUND DB / JULY 2025

#NOPLASTICFILTER

JOIN THE GLOBAL

BUTT CLEANUP MOVEMENT July 5th, 2025

Why?

OXIC T S I THIS ASTIC PL TION U POLL

People around the world are joining forces to collect and count cigarette butts, to highlight the huge amount of butts found in the environment.

Butts on the street can easily end up in the ocean.

We want people to dispose of their butts responsibly and to encourage manufacturers to find an alternative for plastic butts.

Call to Action!

1. Find a spot to collect cigarette butts - on your own or with friends. It can be outside a building, on a street, a trail, a beach. Anywhere!

2. Count your butts and fill in the form at the QR code straight away so the data can be included in the global count.

PROFILE

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! r e h s a l p S

DIVING IN HEAD FIRST

Having learnt to swim with Splash Foundation, Mary Cruz has found her voice and her second true calling as a volunteer coach.

Elizabeth Kerr reports PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew Spires

M

anila native Mar y Cruz claims that at one time not too long ago, she was a social klutz. That’s hard to believe given the fact that the fit, entirely engaging woman sitting in Coffee Academics in DB Plaza is chattering up a storm – about travelling, her son, swimming, Hyrox, Coldplay and the seven- and 10-year-olds in her charge as a domestic helper (or auntie, Mar y’s much warmer word), who she clearly adores. The reference to her klutzy days comes when she recalls Splash Foundation asking if she’d be keen to coach other new swimmers as one of their volunteers. Initially she balked.

“I didn’t think my social skills were strong enough,” she says with a little grin. “Before I star ted Splash I was a five-minute person, you know? ‘Hi.’ ‘How’s ever ything?’ ‘Are you liking this or that?’ That was it.

I didn’t have anything more to say.” Those days are clearly over. The 2025 version of Mar y is confident and outgoing, curious and a fun hang. And she looks about 26. At a push.

A nursing student until she had her son at 19, Mary always had a touch of wanderlust to go with an eye for a better, more informed future. It’s what inspired her to relocate to Saudi Arabia for her first job. Naturally, everyone wondered why she’d didn’t head to Hong Kong, where she had family. “I wanted to do it on my own,” she says. That job was as personal assistant to a couple in the hospitality business, a role that segued into childcare when the family’s existing nanny left. The job also meant frequent trips to Europe and the Middle East as a bonus, but Saudi was “too much luxury, it was too lavish,” Mary says. “I wanted something that would show me the good stuff and the bad. Seeing other perspectives from around the world is valuable.”

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AROUND DB / JULY 2025

Mar y spent three years in Saudi before coming to Hong Kong for a visit. That was 13 years ago. Fixed contracts and frequent repatriation meant she had four employers before finally landing on her current family nine years ago. “You learn from the first one, what you don’t like, what you’re really looking for and what you’re good at,” she says, crediting her current boss with much of her personal growth over the last decade and suppor ting her choices. Like learning to swim.

Despite hailing from an island nation (hey, not all Canadians can skate) Mar y never learnt to swim, sticking close to shore during beach holidays as a kid or dangling her feet off the side of the pool as a teen. “Then I read about Splash on Facebook.”

Mar y signed up for one of the free lessons Splash Foundation (www.splashfoundation.org) provides to migrant domestic workers, refugees and underprivileged children as soon as classes for MDWs opened in DB in 2017. “I remember the first thing they asked was ‘Do you know how to float?’

And I said I think so.” She did not, but she stuck with it and saw rapid progress. “I’m a person who will always give something I don’t know a tr y,” she says.

“In my experience at first, it’s scar y but in the end, you star t liking it.”

“We have amazing senior coaches – Coach Jenn, Coach Estelle and Coach Linda – they’re all DB residents and they volunteer their time for free,” Mar y adds. “They are ver y suppor tive and they guide us: I’ve learnt so much and I’m still learning more. I’m ver y happy with the way we all work together with so much unity. To be surrounded by people who bring out the best in you… this is what I truly enjoy.”

PROFILE

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“I ENJOY TEACHING OTHER HELPERS HOW TO SWIM – I LOVE TO SEE THE PROGRESS THEY MAKE AND HELPING THEM SEE THEIR POTENTIAL. IT ALSO WORKS BOTH WAYS, THEY HELP ME BOOST MY SOCIAL SKILLS AND SELF-ESTEEM

- MARY CRUZ AROUND DB / JULY 2025

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PROFILE

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MARY CRUZ WITH FELLOW DB SPLASHERS ANGELITA (ANGEL) BELLEZA & JOYCE TADENA

No doubt, swimming is more than a spor t or extracurricular activity. As Splash Foundation’s director of communications Victoria Ahn points out: “It’s a life skill and a vehicle for personal growth, resiliency and connection... Our MDW par ticipants feel less lonely and most are less stressed or anxious in their professional life after our programmes.”

Mar y indeed likes swimming (the cross-harbour swim is on her bucket list), which is why she volunteered as a swim captain on graduating from Splash in 2017. She star ted the next month as a coach and never looked back – except for those few minutes of hesitancy. As the years went by Mar y also realised Splash had made her more confident. “When I talk to our coaches and the Splashers it helps me. I enjoy teaching other helpers learn how to swim – I love to see the progress they make and helping them see their potential. It also works both ways, they help me boost my social skills and self-esteem.”

This past April, Mar y completed her third Splash Dash Relay alongside the DB squad that meets ever y Sunday at Discover y Bay International School (as one of Splash’s Good Pool Par tners DBIS provides free use of its pool space). The DB Splashers took the prize for team spirit after winning for most laps last year. “But [the accolade] doesn’t really matter, because the point was to raise money to help more aunties, refugees and underprivileged kids learn to swim,” Mar y says with a shrug. Splash, now in its 10th year, rustled up just shy of HK$550,000.

Another bonus: rumoured avid swimmer Chris Mar tin was in town with Coldplay in April and went for a dip at Kellett School with a group of Splashers. Mar y didn’t meet Mar tin. “But I went to the concer t,” she declares. The band donated tickets to Splash, 18

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

and though she’s claustrophobic, her self-described impulsive side reared its head and she attended her first concert. Ever.

“It was like a fear was unlocked,” she explains. “It was really nice and it wasn’t what I expected. I also didn’t know many of their songs. I have friends going to Blackpink in 2026 who asked if I wanted to go and I said no, but for some reason, with Coldplay, I thought ‘Why not?’ And I liked it. I liked the positive vibes.”

Victoria says that kind of trickle down is common among Splash’s graduates. “Our par ticipants are more willing to tr y new things after Splash and many of our MDW par ticipants develop more career ambitions and wider personal interests,” she says.

“Learning to swim as an adult is a transformative experience… [and] we’ve designed a curriculum that empowers our par ticipants and helps them see what they’re capable of.”

How much more Mar y chooses to do is up to her.

She’s not heading back to Manila this summer; she’s got too much to do here. In vowing to get fit by 40 a few years back (she’s 41 now) not only does Mar y swim and coach, she does strength training with DBDB ahead of this month’s Hyrox, plus a little yoga.

It’s fine with Mar y, who’s spent all her 13 years in Hong Kong in DB – where she’s staying as long as it’ll have her. She likes the work, the comfor t and, yes, the profit. But she also likes the downtime when she gets it, be it painting, an afternoon in the Museum of Ar t, or some good sleep.

“There are times I go to the beach and just enjoy the feeling of laying down on the sand and having a nap.

I love sunset. That’s downtime for me, even if my brain is still going.”

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PLASTIC FREE JULY

Close to 2 million people have pledged to reduce their plastic footprint this month. If you’re planning to join them, Dana Winograd of Plastic Free Seas has some tips. Mervyn Black reports PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew Spires

I

t’s something almost ever yone is conscious of these days but something most of us still have trouble getting a complete handle on – significantly reducing our plastic footprint. In a busy place like Hong Kong, even the simplest of fixes – like packing a reusable water bottle – can go by the wayside as life gets in the way.

There’s no doubting the intentions of many, but most still need constant reminders to avoid slipping into old habits. One such reminder comes this month in the form of Plastic Free July: the per fect time to fire up some old habits and create some new ones.

Launched in 2011, Plastic Free July has grown from humble beginnings in Australia to become a global movement attrac ting millions of par ticipants: 174 million in 2024. The campaign provides resources and ideas to help reduce plastic waste, describing July as “the global month of ac tion against plastic pollution”. When you sign up to take par t, you pledge either to avoid single-use plastic packaging, target takeaway items (bags, bottles, straws and cups) or go completely ‘plastic free’. You pledge to do this for one day, one week, one month or from now on.

While there are myriad suggestions on where to get star ted on the Plastic Free July website (www.plasticfreejuly.org), who better to consult than 27-year DB resident Dana Winograd, executive director and co-founder of Plastic Free Seas (PFS), a Hong Kong-based environmental charity focused on changing the way plastics are viewed and used, through education and action campaigns.

“People get interested when they think they are part of a global movement like Plastic Free July,” opens Dana. “While some people don’t need that, for other people it’s really inspiring. That’s why we promote it.”

Whether as an individual, as a family or as par t of a larger group – with more people to hold you accountable – the concept of Plastic Free July is simple. “The goal is to choose a behaviour you’d like to change or an item you’d like to eliminate from your daily life and star t it in July and hopefully continue it on,” says Dana. “It’s great to do at work: if you know too many people buy bottled water in your office, push for a reduction of that. It could also be in your friendship group, at kids’ bir thday par ties or on trips to the beach.”

Dana points to reducing one’s reliance on buying bottled water as the best star ting point for most people. And here she has a handy tip: “Check out Water For Free, an app for your phone that lists all the free water stations in Hong Kong.

“New water fountains pop up in DB regularly,” she adds. “The one in Siena Park even measures the amount of single-use plastic bottles it has saved people from buying.” Over 17,000 at last count.

“It’s just about making that little bit of effor t,” says Dana whose environmental crusade began in 2007 when DB Green, DB’s green community-led group, was conceived. She focused on getting recycling bins into ever y building in DB, while her co-founder at PFS, Tracey Read, star ted organising monthly beach clean-ups in DB which are still happening 18 AROUND DB / JULY 2025

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years on. “Although ever yone knows what they can do and it’s not rocket science, they don’t always do it. At PFS, we work hard to keep plastic pollution – and what individuals can do to combat it – at the forefront of ever yone’s minds.”

When it comes to cutting out single-use plastic packaging, Dana’s advice goes way beyond carr ying reusable water bottles. “It’s about bringing your own bag to the grocer y store, and not only your own shopping bag but your own produce bag. It’s about replacing zip-lock bags with reusable food containers and resealable silicon pouches – whether that’s for takeaways, or your kids’ school lunches, or storing food in the fridge. It’s about bringing your own coffee cups...

“Even though it’s Plastic Free July and we’re focused on plastic, the bigger picture is reducing single-use waste. Whether it’s a paper bag, a paper straw, or a wooden fork, if you don’t need to take it, don’t. We want to be looking for the reusable option.”

Dana also suggests using refillable personal care products and shampoo bars instead of bottled liquid if you want to take things that one step fur ther, as well as being selective about where you shop.

“If you’re disappointed with the amount of packaging used on produce in the grocer y stores in DB, Tung Chung market is just a bus ride away,” she advises.

“If you do your grocer y shopping in DB, look out for the ‘Share your bag’ spot at Fusion which encourages people to leave behind their used bags so others can reuse them – an initiative PFS helped implement some years ago.”

In regards to other initiatives, Dana is full of praise for the way government suppor t has enabled HKRCL make recycling a viable and convenient option for DB residents. “From ever y building you don’t have to go far to recycle not only paper, plastic and metal, but liquid car tons, glass and food waste. From that point of view, it’s really good,” she says.

What’s key though is that we reduce the need for recycling in the first place. Dana points to the reusable food container and cup programmes offered in Taikoo Place and Airside as per fect for DB. The systems see customers ask for reusable containers or cups when ordering and then returning them to par ticipating outlets once they are done. “DB is the per fect location for that because ever ything is so close together; ideally there would be some government incentives to entice restaurants to take par t,” she says.

But first, Plastic Free July – “the global month of action against plastic pollution”. It’s time to make an action plan of your own, and remember – ever y little bit helps.

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BEST WAYS TO RECYCLE IN DB Did you know you can only recycle plastic bottles #1 and #2 in your building’s communal plastic collection bin? The government-funded Green@Community collection point, open on Tuesdays from 10am to 1pm and 2.30pm to 5.30pm, at the Green Icon@DB near Parkridge is the place to dispose of most other plastic items like soft plastics (film), trays, containers and polyfoam, along with rechargeable batteries, fluorescent and energy-saving light bulbs, disposable coffee cups and fibre food containers. In addition to plastic bottles, paper, metal and food waste, you can also find liquid carton (Tetra Pak) collection bins at most buildings in DB. Disposing of recyclables at designated collection points like Green Icon@DB is easy, effective and, of course, free of charge. But it’s not the only option. You’ll also find a set of Smart recycling bins for plastic bottles, metal, and paper in Siena Two near the Graceful Mansions bus stop, and Smart textile collection bins are located around DB. Last but not least, in order to get your food waste sent to O PARK1 for recycling, remember to keep it separate and put it in one of the many purple food-waste bins you’ll find across DB. You can find the location of all types of collection bins across DB here: www.dbcommunity.hk > What’s key is that all recyclables are cleaned and properly sorted. In order to be recycled, all liquid cartons need to be cut open and washed with the plastic spout and lid removed, and they should be dried and flattened. Polyfoam items, including food trays, fruit nets and product packaging also need to be clean and dry, with no food residue, tape, stickers or any other contaminants.

Beverage bottles must be empty of liquid, though you can leave the cap and label on.

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Economic shifts and technological advancements are reshaping industries, making it crucial to continuously enhance skills and knowledge.

In Discover y Bay, a vibrant communit y known for it s dynamic professionals, Jason Hong and Du Zhiyuan found their path to career grow th through the HKUST MBA . As ambitious individuals navigating demanding roles, they sought a programme that would allow them to balance work “HKUST’s part-time MBA has become my personal growth journey – expanding knowledge and networks, while maintaining work-life balance.

The bi-weekly module connects me with classmates across the Greater Bay Area, broadening my perspectives,” says Jason Hong (HKUST Part-Time Bi-Weekly MBA, Intake 2024).

“Pursuing a part-time MBA while working fulltime always requires discipline and commitment.

Many electives are conveniently held at HKUST Business School in Central, right on my way home to DB. Time management and employer support are key. I’ve even connected with fellow DB alumni – we often share stories and taxis to campus,” says Du Zhiyuan (HKUST Part-Time Weekly MBA, Intake 2024).

and study without compromising their careers or personal lives.

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GREECE GOLDEN VISA HARVEY L AW G ROU P P R E S E N TS A MED I T E R R A NE A N PAT H WAY TO EU R E S I D E N CY As with the Por tugal Golden Visa we explored in this magazine’s June issue, the Greece Golden Visa (or Greece Investment Residence Permit) remains one of Europe’s most accessible residency programmes for non-EU nationals.

Even with the recent changes to the minimum investment thresholds, the Greece Golden Visa continues to of fer multiple proper ty-based routes to residency, with these amendments helping to ensure the long-term sustainability and flexibility of the programme.

High-demand areas such as Attica (including central Athens and Piraeus), Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini and any island with over 3,100 inhabitants now require a minimum real-estate investment of EUR800,000; whereas for all other locations across the countr y, including hidden gems and charming mainland towns, the entr y point remains lower at EUR400,000. For those willing to think creatively, a EUR250,000 investment remains possible – either by conver ting commercial proper ties into residential use or restoring buildings of cultural or historical significance.

The Greece Golden Visa allows applicants (and family members) to obtain a five-year renewable residence permit, with no minimum stay requirement and no language test, unless pursuing eventual citizenship. Greek residents are able to enjoy the same benefits as Greek citizens, notably access to free public healthcare and education, and they are granted the freedom to travel throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180 day period.

Although the profiles of applicants are fairly varied, we would say that they usually have in common a love for Southern Europe and rich historic culture, 26

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

and the desire to spend quality time in Greece, either during holidays or upon retirement. The realestate option enables investors to acquire a holiday home in which to enjoy annual family reunions.

From its ancient cities to its hundreds of islands, Greece of fers a lifestyle that is relaxed, safe and rooted in culture. It is quite simply a beautiful place to spend time. From an investment perspec tive, Greece of fers af fordable entr y into the EU proper ty market, with low annual proper ty tax, no wealth tax and the potential for long-term capital appreciation.

When we decided to introduce the Greece Golden Visa to Around DB readers, one of our colleagues asked us to share her personal experience: “I had the privilege of exploring Greece on my solo trips to Cor fu and Santorini, two vastly dif ferent islands, each with their own unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm and cultural depth. It is one thing to read about Greece; it is another to understand what it feels like to be there. I would encourage anyone to go visit.”

If you are considering applying for the Greece Golden Visa, you may contac t Har vey Law Group.

With over 32 years of experience in investment residency and citizenship programmes all over the world, we would be happy to advise you.

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5-DAY ITINERARY: ATHENS AND SANTORINI

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! t g in Wing

FAMILY HOLIDAY HOW TO Planning a getaway with the kids this month? Andrew Spires has some essential travel tips to get you started

T

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew Spires

he stages of a family holiday closely mirror the stages of having a family. When your first child is born, terror keeps you rooted to within a mile of home, but then slowly, as you get used to each other, the fear subsides and the adventures begin. A wise woman once told me that “fear is simply inexperience” and that ’s a great lesson to take on your family holiday.

When the kids are lit tle… avoid aeroplanes. Saying this, flying with an immobile baby is leagues 28

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

easier than f lying with a wriggling toddler who’s obses sed with walking the c abin aisles, but if you c an avoid the obs t acle cour se of air por t securit y with a pr am and all the accoutrement s that follow a small child, do so.

Here’s a fun stor y. I took my kids (then aged 3 and 1) back to the UK single-handedly and it’s not an experience I want to repeat. I was so stressed getting off a packed train with the kids and their bags and prams that I left all our passpor ts and ID cards

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behind. These useful bits of paper work were quickly destroyed by Her Majesty’s Government. Per fect!

Back to air travel. With the three-year- old sleeping, I nipped back to change the baby. I didn’t realise there’s a folding changing table in a plane toilet, so I at tempted the nappy change on my knees. My lit tle sweethear t had filled it and was proceeding to kick her legs violently whilst windmilling her hands, covering me in what looked like a mix of Hershey’s syrup and French’s mustard. The cabin crew were tr ying ver y hard not to laugh when I emerged covered head to toe in poop with a giggling baby.

GET INTO STAYCATIONS

Hong Kong has loads of great spot s that are far enough that it feels like you’re on holiday but close enough that you can max your time without losing it all to travelling. If it ’s culture you’re af ter, I can’t recommend Cheung Chau highly enough. Take the slow ferr y and sit up on Level 2, out the back. The breeze is heavenly and the view will keep the lit tle ones enter tained.

There are a few AirBnBs on the island that include a barbecue on the roof, so you can relax in the evening with the children close enough to hear their cries. If you’re in the mood for a lit tle adventure, Saiyuen Camping Adventure Park, on Cheung Chau’s southwestern tip, is an oasis and of fers an array of pre- erec ted tent s and star domes. But be warned: while Saiyuen makes camping easy and semi-luxurious (aircon!), you’ll pay more for a night there than you would at the W in West Kowloon.

EAT WEIRD FOOD

TAKE SHORT FLIGHTS

BE CULTURE VULTURES

Just as easy to reach from DB, Gold Coast Hotel is class if you have lit tle ones. There is a mini watersplash park built into the grounds, an elec tric- car racetrack, a beach not a Frisbee throw away and a great parade of shops, restaurant s and bars. The hotel also boast s a huge jungle gym and sof t-play area that you can use to knacker out the lit tle ones.

The fee is HK$80 per kid. Well wor th it!

From Gold Coast Hotel, it ’s only a 10 -minute taxi ride to Tuen Mun Park which is my favourite kidcentred park in Hong Kong. Make the most of it s fantastic playground and water-splash area, then have a peek into the free-to -visit reptile house with giant tor toises and ball py thons.

Once the kids are old enough to walk unaided through airpor t securit y, it ’s time to venture fur ther afield. Vietnam has always been our go -to. The people are lovely, the food delicious; it ’s a shor t flight and it ’s beautiful and cheap once you get there. I’d avoid the t wo big cities until the kids are older, and instead venture to Hôi An or Phú Quôc. 

˙ Hôi An is a beautifully preser ved trading por t dating ˙ back to the 15th centur y and is now a UNESCO

RENT BIKES

World Heritage Site. The flight from Hong Kong is only one hour 55 minutes, then it ’s a half-hour taxi ride from Da Nang International Airpor t. The town is pret t y by day but comes alive at night. Take a boat trip down the Thu B ồn River and check out the floating flower candles that people send of f as wishes. Grab a banh mi roll from a street vendor: a sof t baguet te filled with crunchy grated cabbage, carrot and onion; a thick spread of paté; sliced chicken and fish sauce. Pair your banh mi with a cold can of Saigon beer and you’ll be chasing that food dragon as long as you live.

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Most Hôi An hotels have bikes you can borrow or ˙ fic out in the fields to the west of the town hire. Traf is ver y light so c ycling is safe and a great way to explore smaller villages. We did a c ycle tour that included lunch, but we could quite easily have done this ourselves and avoided an obnoxious American chap banging on about the Vietnam War. Don’t be that guy.

Although it ’s not great, there is a beach 10 minutes out of Hôi An town. If it ’s sea and sand you’re af ter, ˙ take a taxi back up to Da Nang, or book a hotel along the Da Nang seafront. Be sure to get a room with a balcony.

HAVE FUN ON BOATS

Phú Quôc  is a little fur ther from Hong Kong but wor th the three-hour flight. Nestled at the junc tion of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, it’s a gem of an island that’s still ver y underdeveloped. Book accommodation close to the beach and night market. Although the market itself isn’t much to write home about, there are some great little cafés and restaurants in that area. Phú Quôc’s three main  ‘attrac tions’ are a water park, a safari park and Star fish Beach. Take the cable car to the waterpark: it ‘takes of f ’ from a bizarre, fake-Roman town built in 2018 and then flies you over pic turesque fishing villages to the south side of the island.

The standout at trac tion for us was Star fish Beach.

Any where else, this would be a chaotic tourist trap but there can’t have been more than 15 people when we visited in April. My kids and I rented a scooter and the hour ride from our beach shack to the star fish was an adventure in it self. They have Grab (like Uber) on the island which is cheap and reliable, but not as fun!

RENT A BEACH SHACK

FIND STARFISH

ONCE THE KIDS ARE OLD ENOUGH TO WALK UNAIDED THROUGH AIRPORT SECURITY, IT’S TIME TO VENTURE FURTHER AFIELD 30

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

Once at the main pier, you ditch wheels for a hulland-zoom speedboat ride over the water to a pristine beach festooned with star fish. There are rope swings over the water and the option to rent loungers. It was a magical experience and one I hope the kids don’t forget.

What I’ve learned about holidays with kids is not to squeeze them into your old kid-free life, but to be water, and flow them into your new one. Shor t journey times are your friends. Snacks, plain paper and colouring pencils are your life raf t in a sea of boredom. The ABC game is indispensable for kids aged 5 and up: think of a topic – names, for example – then think of one for each let ter of the alphabet. Keeps us busy for ages.

I asked my t wo, aged 7 and 9, what their best bit of Phú Quôc  was. Remember, we’ve had motorbike journeys into the forest s and swings over star fish…

Their answer “that blue-ice drink” and “King Kong Supermarket”. So I guess it doesn’t mat ter where you go, so long as you spend qualit y time together.

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Rediscovery!

DB HOUSING MARKET UPDATE

The road to real estate market recovery could have an offramp through Discovery Bay. Elizabeth Kerr reports PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew Spires

POGGIBO NSI

NEO

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HEADLAND DRIVE

HOR

IZON

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ong Kong’s real es t ate mar ket s are nothing if not volatile. In one of the world’s mos t dynamic mar ket s, minor ex ter nal fac tor s c an have an out sized impac t in the SAR, and event s that bring major centres such as London or Tok yo to a screeching halt c an barely c ause a ripple. Per haps unsur prisingly, 2024 proved to be another unpredic t able year, and the November elec tion of Donald Tr ump to another presidenc y – and the ensuing chaos his adminis tr ation has wrought – has c aused inves tor s to proceed with c aution, if at all, and sent global monet ar y polic y into damage control. So what does this mean for Discover y Bay? Hong Kong’s residential market overall star ted showing signs of post-pandemic recover y late in 2024. Then the 2025/26 budget increased the threshold for homes subjec t to the HK$100 stamp duty to HK$4 million – a boon for firsttime purchasers and a complement to last year’s elimination of cooling measures in place since 2012 – and increased the LT V ratio. With fur ther interest rate cuts anticipated, the forecast was for continued recover y and transac tions rose, par ticularly in the primar y market, where luxur y residential flat rents crept up 0.8% and investment spiked 70% according to JLL. But data takes time to compile and by Q2/2025 global trade policy and relations caught fire, making a lot of people hit pause on major purchases – including in Hong Kong.

“T he ongoing t r ad e war r is k s s tif ling economic grow t h and s to c k mar ket d ecline, p res s ur ing resid e ntial p ro p er t y values. We ex p ec t mas s and lu xur y resid e ntial c apit al values to dro p by ab out 5% in 2025,” conclud e d JLL in it s May APPD Mar ket re p or t. “However, lu xur y re nt s are p rojec te d to continue r ising, dr ive n by an inf lu x of mainland Chines e f amilies and s ome ret ur n of ex pat r iates, par tic ular ly t hos e in t he f inance and inves t me nt s ec tor s.”

In DB prices are still as much as 20% below their peaks in 2021 as of Q2, with some proper ties transac ting below bank valuation. Rents have stabilised but remain lower than comparable distric ts af ter tumbling nearly 40% between 2019 and 2024. “This makes DB relatively af fordable, especially for larger family units,” says Sdever Li, direc tor of residential ser vices at Savills Hong Kong. According to Savills, flats on The Peak and in Mid-Levels leased for well over HK$100,000 late in 2024, over HK$75,000 in Kowloon (Austin) and HK$54,000 in Sai Kung. By comparison, two houses in DB rented for HK$40,000 and HK$48,000.

“DB is cur rently seen as a value buy in the Hong Kong mar ket, especially for those seeking space, greener y and a communit y vibe,” Li adds.

INSIDER

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“RECENTLY THERE HAS BEEN AN INFLUX OF TENANTS AND BUYERS, ESPECIALLY AT THE LUXURY END OF THE RENTAL MARKET. I CAN’T SAY IF HONG KONG IS DOING BETTER THAN US… BUT WE’RE POPULAR WITH FAMILIES AND PEOPLE WHO PREFER COMMUNITY LIVING - CHRISTINE KING, DIRECTOR OF HEADLAND HOMES

Chris tine King, direc tor of DB - based Headland Homes, however, argues that recent price cor rec tions prompted many to t ake the oppor tunit y to buy what was once unaf fordable and that window could be closing. “Recently there has been an inf lux of tenant s and buyer s, especially at the luxur y end of the rent al mar ket.

I c an’t say if Hong Kong is doing bet ter than us… but we’re popular with families and people who prefer communit y living.”

DB cer t ainly wasn’t immune to the tur moil of the pas t few year s. It was subjec ted to cooling measures like all other dis tric t s, hot inves tment money and, of cour se, COVID -19.

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

33

INSIDER

/

“DB was signific antly af fec ted by the emigr ation wave during 2022-23,” s t ates Li. “A s many ex patriates and loc al families lef t Hong Kong, DB – tr aditionally popular with ex pat s due to it s resor tlike lifes t yle and inter national school acces s – saw a shar p drop in demand. This led to falling prices and rising vac ancies.” That said, Li notes signs of recover y thanks to ex pat s retur ning from the UK and Singapore in par ticular, and increasing number s of mainland buyer s equally keen on DB’s schools and family-friendlines s. Favour able polic y shif t s like those reduced s t amp duties, interes t r ate cut s and more feasible mor tgage r ules have also improved buyer sentiment. “However, DB’s recover y is s till sensitive to broader economic sentiment and buyer confidence,” c autions Li. DB isn’t of ficially lis ted among Hong Kong’s luxur y dis tric t s, but in a mar ket where the fundament al concept of ‘luxur y ’ has been redefined in recent year s to include fac tor s such as a neighbour hood feel, natur al environment s and wellbeing, it slot s in nicely with emerging dis tric t s such as Sai Kung, Shek O and St anley. A s Li point s out, prices and rent s are s till below peak, making DB a relative bargain and pos sibly an inves tment des tination.

ELEGAN

CE COU

“DB has always been positioned more as a lifes t yle enclave than a tr aditional luxur y dis tric t like The Peak or Repulse Bay,” notes Li, appealing for it s beaches, greener y, inter national schools and low-tr af fic s treet s. “A s an inves tment, DB is les s speculative and more yield -focused, especially in the rent al mar ket. Capit al appreciation has been modes t, but rent al yields are improving as prices remain sof t and demand retur ns.”

King agrees, refer ring to DB as a mixed bag that has always had it s share of luxur y – such as af fordable garden homes, a r arit y in Hong Kong – and always will. “There seems to be a larger amount of owner- occupier s now,” she says, adding, “Considering the loc ation, the air por t brings many air por t s t af f to live in DB, the Mac au bridge is convenient for commuter s to that region and [it ’s] an easy commute to Shenzhen, I think the inves tment potential is s till there.”

The res t of 2025 is poised to be a challenging one for many indus tries, from ret ail to tourism. In real es t ate, challenges include over supply in some sec tor s and economic uncer t aint y, and as Li sees it DB has unique hurdles that could negatively impac t it s mar ket, among them: limited tr anspor t connec tivit y and reliance on volatile ex patriate demand. Finishes Li, “That said, if Hong Kong’s broader recover y continues, DB could benefit from spillover demand from buyer s priced out of more centr al areas.”

34

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

C H IA N TI

LOCAL REALTORS •

Centaline Property Agency, 2987 8484

•

Century 21 Newcourt Realty, 2987 9729

•

Headland Homes, 2987 2088

•

Kingsland, 2987 2987

•

Land Master Property, 2987 6238

•

Midland Realty, 2987 2888

•

Okay.com, 2102 0888

•

Pacific Estate, 2987 2928

RT

! p e t s r oo D On your ESCAPES

/

HK’S BEST BEACHES Time to swim, tan and get social PHOTOGRAPHY BY Sarin Ale & courtesy of Pexels

A DENSELY POPULATED URBAN HUB, Hong Kong is in fact awash

with fantastic beaches. Within Lantau, Pui O Beach is our top pick: a wild and windswept water-sports’ hub, with intriguing brown-black sand and incredible sunsets. There’s a government-run campsite with barbecue pits, plus the option to eat and overnight at Treasure Island Beach Club.

KNOWN FOR ITS POWERFUL SURF BREAKS and rugged cliffs,

Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay) is quite a hike to get to – 45 minutes from Sai Wan Pavilion in Sai Kung town. The lure? You’re rewarded by four interconnected, often deserted beaches – Sai Wan, Ham Tin Wan, Tai Wan and Tung Wan – which stretch across 3 kilometres of coast.

THE CRESCENT-SHAPED SHORELINE and palm-fringed

promenade of Repulse Bay Beach makes it one of the most popular in Hong Kong. It’s a great spot for people watching, packed at weekends, with every amenity on tap. Find a beachfront mall, high-end restaurants and bars, changing rooms, raft rental and even a beach volleyball court.

36

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

ENCAPSULATING COASTAL LIVING, Stanley

ESCAPES

/

Main Beach is as vibrant and bustling as the village that homes it. (To avoid the crowds, walk 15 minutes to St Stephen’s, a pretty little cove just east of the village). Once you’ve topped up your tan, explore Stanley’s markets and eateries, and take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade.

DUBBED THE MALDIVES OF HONG KONG, Long Ke Beach

exceeds expectations, delivering fine white sand and bright turquoise waters. You can expect a real Robinson Crusoe experience as it’s well off the beaten track; facilities are limited so bring your own food and water supplies. Hike there from Sai Kung East Dam, or hire a speedboat at Sai Kung Pier.

DETERMINEDLY LOW KEY,

Shek O Beach has everything it takes, particularly for families, with a tempting expanse of sand, calm waters and great facilities including changing rooms and barbecue pits. The laid-back vibe continues into the village, where there are plenty of sleepy cafés serving up quality eats.

CALL US BIASED BUT this guide would not be complete without a shout-

out to DB’s own Tai Pak Beach. The city’s first man-made beach, backed by rolling hills, it’s our go-to for leisurely swims and long walks, sun worshipping and beach games. Family-friendly amenities include a kids’ playground at the far end by Lantau Boat Club.

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

37

ESCAPES

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! t s i L t e k c Bu

CLASSIC SUMMER READS 6 sizzling novels to take on holiday

A ROOM WITH A VIEW: E.M. FORSTER (1908)

TIGERS IN RED WEATHER: LIZA KLAUSSMANN (2012)

BRIDESHEAD REVISITED: EVELYN WAUGH (1945)

THE BEACH: ALEX GARLAND (1996)

CALL ME BY YOUR NAME: ANDRÉ ACIMAN (2007)

THE MAGUS: JOHN FOWLES (1965)

Lucy has her horizons broadened on a trip to Florence where she meets George, a radical freethinker. The pair share a passionate kiss in Fiesole. Whisked back to England by her chaperone, Lucy gets engaged to a ‘suitable’ – and suitably wealthy – suitor, Cecil. At the end of the novel, Lucy returns to Florence on her honeymoon. But who is she married to?

The first time Charles stays at Brideshead, he and Sebastian have the Flyte family’s opulent stately home to themselves. They spend a hedonistic summer exploring the estate and raiding the wine cellar, before taking the train to Venice where Charles is introduced to Sebastian’s enigmatic father. In the autumn, the young men return to Oxford to face some harsh realities.

A sudden and powerful attraction develops between 17-year-old Elio and Oliver, a 24-year-old archaeology student, who are holidaying with Elio’s parents on the Italian Riviera. At first each feigns indifference but during the restless summer weeks that follow, undercurrents of obsession and fear, fascination and desire intensify their passion.

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AROUND DB / JULY 2025

Nick and her cousin, Helena, have grown up together, sharing long hot summers at Tiger House, the family’s estate on Martha’s Vineyard. With husbands and children of their own, they keep returning.

But beneath the familiar buzz of parties, cocktails, moonlight and jazz, all is not what it seems. This year the glamourous façade finally begins to crack.

Richard, a backpacker in Thailand, is given a map to a hidden island beach that is said to be a heaven on earth, inhabited by a select few. He sets out to find the beach and discovers a small community of travellers who have left the outside world to live a largely self-sufficient life of leisure. Richard finds the lifestyle idyllic. Then things start to unravel.

Nicholas breaks up with his girlfriend and accepts a teaching position on a remote Greek island, where he meets Maurice, a wealthy Greek recluse with interests in art, psychiatry, theatre and perhaps the supernatural. As the school term unfolds, Nicholas is drawn into an elaborate psychological game, which gradually unravels his sense of reality.

Enjoy sundowners on board!

Spend an evening cruising Hong Kong’s beautiful harbour with our special night junk packages.

BOOK NOW FOR THE FINEST JUNK EXPERIENCES T: 2516 7397 / M: 5431 8894 bookings@charterjunkshk.com www.charterjunkshk.com

Venue Rental (200 guests max) Catering & Entertainment BBQs & Picnics Workshops & Corporate Retreats Allotment Rental School Camps Little Farmer Weekend Program Chinese Culture Explorer Program

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+852 6051 7405 lantaufun@wellbeingfarm.com.hk www.wellbeingfarm.com.hk

ARK EDEN ON LANTAU

A PLACE FOR REGENERATION, RESTORATION & TRANSFORMATION

HOME CHEF

/

Recipe of the Month!

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels

140g raw almonds

15 dates, pit ted

30g unsweetened shredded coconut

50g unsweetened cocoa powder

1t sp vanilla ex trac t

40g mini chocolate chips

COCONUT & CHOCOLATE ENERGY BALLS Serves 4

Blitz the almonds to create a fine almond meal. (Don’t blend the almond meal too long or it will turn into nut but ter.) Add the remaining ingredients and blitz to combine.

Then, scoop a heaped tablespoon of dough into your hands and roll it into a ball. Roll the ball in additional shredded coconut (optional) and place it on a baking sheet. Repeat until you’ve used up all the dough.

Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 15 minutes and then transfer the energy balls to a freezer-safe bag.

You can store these healthy bites in the freezer for up to 3 months.

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

41

QUIZ

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A

! a i v i r T f o it L ittle B

20 QUESTIONS How much do you know about the month of July?

BY Kayli Liebenberg

01. Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the moon on July 20 in which year?

A.

1960

B.

1965

C.

1969

02. What is July’s full moon called?

A.

Buck Moon

B.

Deer Moon

C.

Fawn Moon

03. When does HKSAR Establishment Day fall?

A.

July 1

B.

July 20

C.

July 31

04. Who did Julius Caesar name the month of July after?

A.

Himself

B.

His family

C.

Cleopatra

05. Which civil rights activist was born on July 12, 1997?

A.

Thandiwe Abdullah

B.

Greta Thunberg

C.

Malala Yousafzai

42

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

QUIZ

06. Which album did Taylor Swift release on July 7, 2023?

14. The inaugural FIFA World Cup was held where in July 1930?

A.

Red (Taylor's Version)

A.

Argentina

B.

Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)

B.

Bolivia

C.

1989 (Taylor's Version)

C.

Uruguay

07. What is July’s birthstone?

A.

Ruby

B.

Emerald

C.

Pearl

08. On July 25, 1909, who was the first man to fly an aircraft across the English Channel?

A.

Sully Sullenberger

B.

Charles Lindbergh

C.

Louis Bleriot

09. What do the French celebrate on July 14?

A.

Bastille Day

B.

Armistice Day

C.

Ascension Day

10. Which South African president was born on July 18, 1918?

/

15. At which Spanish festival, held in July, do people run with bulls through the streets?

A.

Las Fallas

B.

Fiesta de San Fermín

C.

Feria de Sevilla

16. Which movie made US$356 million worldwide during its opening weekend in July 2023?

A.

Barbie

B.

Oppenheimer

C.

Sounds of Freedom

17. Which popular item of summer clothing was showcased in Paris in July 1946?

A.

Bikini

B.

Flip flops

C.

Crop top

A.

Desmond Tutu

18. Who wrote 4th of July – Ashbury Park (Sandy)?

B.

Nelson Mandela

A.

Bruno Mars

C.

Jacob Zuma

B.

Billy Joel

C.

Bruce Springsteen

11. Which major cycling event traditionally starts in July?

A.

Milan-San Remo

B.

Tour de France

C.

Tour Down Under

12. Which US actor born on July 3, 1962, starred in Born on the Fourth of July?

A.

Stanley Tucci

B.

Tom Cruise

C.

Sean Penn

13. Where did the first Disneyland open on July 17, 1955?

A.

Anaheim, California

B.

Penny’s Bay, Lantau

C.

Marne-la-Vallée, France

19. Which sporting event, held in July 1967, was the first UK television programme to be broadcast in colour?

A.

Rugby World Cup

B.

Wimbledon Tennis Championships

C.

Cricket World Cup

20. Amazon opened as an online bookseller in July of which year?

A

1995

B.

1997

C.

2000 You can check your score at www.arounddb.com>20 questions>july-quiz AROUND DB / JULY 2025

43

! h c r a e s d or Lantau W PUZZLES

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SOUTH LANTAU ROADS CHEUNG FU STREET

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SUDOKU

Lung Shing Street Cheung Fu Street Lung 9Chi Ma Wan 5 Road 8 7 Tin6Street Chung Shing Street Ma Po Ping Road 1 5 Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road Kat Hing Street 6 Keng Shan 8 Road 3 Ngan 7 Kwong5Wan2Road

6

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3 H Answers 44

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

Medium Puzzle #1

8

3

9

7

5

7

2

1

4

9

5

1

3

Ngan Shu Street 3 Shek Pik Reservoir 4 Road7 Shek Tsai Po Street 4 6 9 South Lantau Road 6 Tai 7 O Road 2

3

7

3

Fill in the puzzle so that every row across, every column down and every 9 by 9 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

Medium Puzzle #2

5 8

8

2

7

7

3

4

1

8

Tai O Tai Ping 9 Street Tai O Wing On Street 7 2 8 Wang Pui Road

1

4 8 9

1

4

5

Fill in the puzzle so that every row across, every column down and every 9 by 9 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

CONNECT WITH KRISTIN JIANG TO REACH AN ENGAGED AND AFFLUENT AUDIENCE IN DISCOVERY BAY!

Special

advertising packages available for

2025

Discovery Bayʼs original community magazine, Around DB is the trusted provider of local information for DB residents. The magazine is delivered to every village in DB, plus key local businesses throughout the resort and we now also have a very active online presence. Our website receives over 45,000 visitors per month, and the Around DB Facebook and Instagram pages have close to 25,000 followers.

We are currently offering special advertising packages (both print and digital) for 2025.

For tailor-made advertising packages to reach our unique readership, email our sales manager Kristin Jiang at kristin@arounddb.com

www.arounddb.com

JOIN OUR 25,000+ Facebook & Instagram followers Scan to follow us!

WIN EXCITING PRIZES! GET LOCAL NEWS UPDATES! REGISTER FOR OUR NEWSLETTERS!

b dd

re a photo with #a rou Sha n

Your mission this month is to share your favourite photo of DB on Instagram #arounddb. You have until the 20th of the month to enter. This is your chance to win four complimentary drinks from Uncle Russ and The Pier Bar.

The Warriors CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST MONTH’S WINNER: Mitch Elle @marckyximitch016

We will contact the winner on Instagram #arounddb.

Good luck!

' s e r i p S w e Andr

DB FACES

/

COMMUNITY SNAPS

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

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

47

CLASSIFIEDS

/

WEEKLY (EVERY TUESDAY)

E V E RY C H I L D D E S E RV E S TO C E L E B R AT E T H E I R B I RT H DAY TO K E E P A S A L I FE- LO N G M E M O RY

RECYCLING POP-UP Did you know you can ONLY recycle plastic bottles #1 and #2, paper, metal and glass in your building's recycling bin?

In front of Parkridge

Birthday Happiness Asia strives to create exciting and special memories for children who do not have the same advantages as most of their peers.

10am - 1pm, 2.30 - 5.30pm

e cy c l e o t h e r p l a s To r ti cs , i ncl u di n ystyrene) c d a i r u t q o g p o l y f oa m ( p o l li ns (T , e tra Paks), s , e r i r e e c t h arg e a ble bat r gy s a v i n g l i g h t bul ene bs an d w aste e l e c t r on ic s , t a k e i t to the WEEK

VOLUNTEER

DONATE b i r th d a y h a p p i n e s s a s i a @ g m a i l .co m

+ 852 9635 3349

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TOILETR

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PROGRAM

DONATE NOW

SUPPORT PEOPLE IN NEED AND HELP REDUCE WASTE! The Amber Foundation collects unused airline and hotel amenities and toiletries and distributes them to Hong Kong’s homeless, refugees, women in shelters, the elderly and people in need. www.theamberfoundation.org

48

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

w w w. b h a s i a .o rg

Volunteer Donate Adopt

LY RE CYCLIN G P OP-UP

Find out more at the Islands Recycling Station FB page.

Help us deliver birthday happiness to many less fortunate children

www.vkblantau.com

HELP US TO HELP THEM

PHONE DIRECTORY

LOCAL NUMBERS

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TUNG CHUNG

EMERGENCY SERVICES (999) Tung Chung Ambulance Depot ································· 2988 8282 Tung Chung Fire Station ··········································· 2988 1898 Tung Chung Police Station ········································ 3661 1999 HOTELS Four Points by Sheraton ··········································· 2352 8000 HK SkyCity Marriott ·················································· 3969 1888 Novotel Citygate HK ················································ 3602 8888 Regal Airport Hotel ·················································· 2286 8888 Sheraton Tung Chung ··············································· 2535 0000 The Silveri HK ·························································· 3602 8989 LEARNING CENTRES CWCC ······································································ 2817 2318 ESF Tung Chung ······················································· 3742 3500 Discovery Mind HK ··················································· 2987 8070 Greenfield International Kindergarten ······················· 2162 5538 Sun Island Education Foundation ······························ 2420 1068 Tung Chung Catholic School ····································· 2121 0884 YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) Direct Subsidy Scheme, Tung Chung-based secondary school providing an international-style education with English as the medium of instruction. Call 2988 8123

MEDICAL Bayside Dental ························································· 2185 6550 Essential Health Family Clinic ··································· 2109 9396 North Lantau Hospital Rural general hospital in Tung Chung with a 24-hour accident & emergency service. Outpatient services include the North Lantau Community Health Centre. Call 3467 7000

Quality Health Dental ··············································· 2403 6623

RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY A Tavola Bar & Grill Multi-cuisine dining concept at Seaview Crescent Plaza, Tung Chung, specialising in pasta, pizza & mains from the grill. Indoor & outdoor seating. Call 2321 5500

Basic Bistro ······························································ 2305 5508 Cabana Breeze ························································· 2777 8982 Café Aficionado ······················································· 2286 6238 Handi ······································································· 2988 8674 Jasmine ···································································· 2162 8018 Mint & Basil ······························································ 2762 8077 Moon Lok Chiu Chow ················································ 2116 8149 My Thai ···································································· 2907 6918 Sunset Grill ······························································· 2535 0025 The New Chapter ······················································ 2907 6988 Upper Deck ······························································ 2757 8889 Yue ·········································································· 2535 0028 Velocity Bar & Grill ···················································· 3969 1888 Vibe The Fusion Corner ············································· 2338 3177 Wok n Roll ································································ 5182 7646 SPORTS Tung Chung Public Swimming Pool ···························· 2109 9107 Tung Chung Sports Centre ········································ 2109 2421 Tung Chung Rugby Club ··········································· 6079 0825 VETERINARY SERVICES & PETS Royal Pets (Pet Sitting) ·············································· 6314 9887 Tung Chung Animal Clinic ········································· 2988 1534 Tung Chung Vet Centre ············································· 2328 7282 WELLBEING & BEAUTY Max Beauty Spa ························································ 2162 5752 OM Spa ···································································· 2286 6266 Nail Ninjas ································································ 6909 9229 Quan Spa ································································· 3692 1888

SOUTH LANTAU EMERGENCY SERVICES (999) Lantau South Ambulance ·········································· 2980 2254 Lantau South Police ·················································· 3661 1696 Mui Wo Fire Department ··········································· 2984 1570 HOTELS Silvermine Beach Resort ············································ 6810 0111 Tai O Heritage Hotel ················································· 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES A Collective Space ·················································· 9848 8552 Ark Eden ·································································· 2984 5355 Buddhist Fat Ho College ··········································· 2985 5365 Lantau International School ······································· 2984 0302 Silvermine Bay School ··············································· 2984 0006

La Pizzeria ································································· 2984 8933 Lantana Italian Bistro ················································· 5465 5511 Long Island ······························································· 2320 2001 Pause Cafe ································································ 5267 5549 Po Lin Monastery Vegetarian ····································· 2985 4736 Solo ········································································· 9153 7453 The China Beach Club ··············································· 2983 8931 The Gallery ······························································· 2980 2582 The Kitchen ······························································ 5991 6292

REALTORS Findley Leung ··························································· 2984 8334 HomeSolutions ·························································· 3483 5003

SHOPPING Bella Ciao Lantau ······················································ 9321 0487 Friendly Bike Shop ···················································· 2984 2278 Garden Plus ······························································ 2980 2233 Island Wines ····························································· 9521 8481 Lantau Grocer ··························································· 2702 0050 Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. ········································· 9095 4543 Value Vigilantes ························································ 6132 9120 VIBE Book & Music Shop ··········································· 9088 2370

RESTAURANTS Caffé Paradiso ··························································· 2984 0498 China Bear ································································ 2984 9720 Grill House by Capo ·················································· 9263 5840

SPORTS Long Coast Seasports ················································ 5545 5625 South Lantau Paddle Club ········································· 6058 8843 Treasure Island Group ················································ 2546 3543 AROUND DB / JULY 2025

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DISCOVERY BAY EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 China Light & Power ················································· 2728 8333 DB Fire & Ambulance ················································ 2987 7502 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. 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. 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

The Performers Studio ·············································· 6894 7243 50

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

Tinytots Soccer ························································ 3488 7724 Treasure House ························································ 2987 4217 YRock ······································································· 6180 0817 LANGUAGE TUITION Dr Bear Education Centre ········································· 9685 7856 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 Authentic Montessori programme scientifically structured for children aged 6 months to 12 years. Seafront views & an outdoor play space at DB North Plaza. Call 2185 6134

HKILA ······································································· 2416 3198 La Petite Enfance Kindergarten ·································· 8191 0893 Mathemagic (home tutoring) ····································· 9135 4724 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 DB-based, HK-wide service: home & office relocations. Full packing & unpacking services, plus handyman jobs & furniture disposal. Storage space rental in DB. Call 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 Headland Homes ······················································ 2987 2088 Kingsland ································································· 2987 2987 Land Master Property················································· 2987 6238 Midland Realty ·························································· 2987 2888 Okay.com ································································· 2102 0888 Pacific Estate ···························································· 2987 2928 RECREATION BMSE Community Centre ·········································· 2259 3422 Club Siena ································································ 2987 7382 DB Football Club ······················································ 9770 4548 DB Golf Club ···························································· 2987 7273 DB Ice Rink ······························································ 2234 0187

LOCAL NUMBERS

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DISCOVERY BAY 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 Epic Foods ······························································· 2172 6111 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 Plaza. Call 2987 0202

Island Café ······························································· 2987 9311 JOO Korean Grill & Bar ············································· 2234 6118 Koh Tomyums Thai ···················································· 2987 0767 La Creation ······························································ 2987 1829 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 Shanghai Breeze ······················································· 2987 7808 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 The Rink – Bar Grill & Restaurant.

Steakhouse, specialising in modern international cuisine with a dedicated kids’ menu. Pet-friendly, located in DB 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 European Touch ························································ 2918 0868 Felix & Mina ····························································· 2130 7013 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 Boutique yoga studio in DB North Plaza offering regular yoga classes (hatha, power flow, yin etc), plus a 500-hour Teacher Training Course. Call 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 Herbal Health Care ··················································· 2834 7276 Salon De Coiffure ····················································· 2987 4112 Sophia Essentials ······················································ 2527 0118 Spa Botanica ······························································ 2295 8129

VIEW THE ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY @www.arounddb.com To add your directory listing, call the

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AROUND DB / JULY 2025

51

AT A GLANCE

/

! t h g i l t o p S

NEXTWAVE XX25

Behind the scenes at Hong Kong’s biggest beach music festival

7

50,000

PERFORMANCES PER DAY

SQUARE-FOOT outdoor event space

with ERIC CHOU, CHUNG HA and ITZY headlining

4,000

1

FESTIVALGOERS EXPECTED

DJ SESSION PER DAY SHOW YOUR WRISTBAND or e-ticket to redeem

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS from participating DB restaurants

GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS HK$788 2-DAY PASS HK$988 1-DAY PASS FOR UNDER 18 HK$388 1-DAY PASS (BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE) HK$988 Buy discounted tickets at www.klook.com

52

AROUND DB / JULY 2025

JULY 5-6

TAI PAK BEACH

VENUE HIGHLIGHTS Food stalls, a marketplace and large-scale sea park complete with water slides

DAYS OF INCREDIBLE LIVE PERFORMANCES

HOURS OF NONSTOP MUSIC PER DAY

THEME: FRIENDSHIP AND ROMANCE A colour-coded Pairing Wristband Social System categorises festivalgoers by their relationship status – helpful if you’re looking to meet new people or fall in love

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