June 2012 issue

YOUR

DRAGON BOAT

BIRTHING OPTIONS

SEASON Introducing

Where to do it in Hong Kong

DB's paddlers “We are all meant to shine, as children do.”

NELSON MANDELA

Anita

One DBer shares lessons from the afterlife JUNE 2012

Publishers in DB since 2002

JUNE 2012

海馬徑 SEAHORSE LANE 2075

3 3

Stunning sea views, tastefully furnished, private terrace, great for entertaining.

寶珊閣 CORAL COURT 1267

3 2

$95K

$38K

Combined unit with fantastic renovation.

Amazing view.

碧濤軒 COASTLINE VILLA 2174 $24M/85K

5 3

Tranquil views overlooking The Marina.

Large and spacious. Fantastic renovation.

靖山閣 Greenery Court 1373 $8M/38K

4 2

Fully renovated combined unit, large open kitchen with balcony, sea views.

海蜂徑 SEABEE LANE 3100

4 3

Renovated throughout, large entertainment areas inside and out, great sea views.

寶琳閣 WOODLAND 1134

3 2

2

1

$19.5M

Garden house open plan beautiful renovation.

Lots of outdoor space. Sea views.

天澄閣 SKYLINE MANSION 858

2

$29K

Very spacious family home with sea views.

海蜂徑 SEABEE LANE 1642

2

$130K

$4.5M

Good condition throughout. Light and bright, with sea views.

海澄湖畔2座 SIENA TWO 1732

3 3

Renovated, large terrace, high ceiling with sea views.

觀霞樓 SUNRISE 713

2 1

2

1

$12.3M

Stylishly renovated. Spacious w/roof terrace.

Sea views.

寶珊閣 CORAL COURT 432

0

$17K

Great renovation throughout.

蘅欣徑 Caperidge Drive 1600

3

$58K

$2.88M

Beautifully renovated studio flat, bright and airy.

Lascal M1 Carrier

Maclaren Triumph

colours may vary

$1,659

CARES Airline Harness

LeapFrog - LeapPad Explorer

$899

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Buds for Baby Organics Sun & Bug Protection Range

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Skip Hop Little Kids Zoo Luggage

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$379

Phil&Teds Traveller Cot

Pop up Pool

$1,950

$375 Fred’s Swimtrainer Seat

GoGoKids Travelmate

(car seat available separately)

$750

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CONTENTS FEATURES 22

26

DEAR READER

44

22

PROFILE Meet the fun, fit and fabulous DB dragon boaters

26

IN FOCUS Be enlightened by one DBer’s near-death experience

32

FAMILY MATTERS Where to give birth: private vs public hospital

39

MONEY MATTERS How compound interest can kick-start your retirement

44

TALKING POINTS Has your child got what it takes to model?

50

ESCAPES Heaven on earth in the Seychelles

56

ACTION Geocaching in DB; it’s orienteering with benefits

61

STYLE What you want in your media room

REGULARS 10

IN & AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news

20

SOUTH LANTAU What’s happening island wide

64

HOTSTUFF Hip happenings around Hong Kong

66

LOCAL FACES Community snaps in DB and Lantau

70

CLASSIFIEDS Great deals

72

PROPERTY Hot local listings

74

DB NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB

76

HEALTH Q&A How alcohol affects your body and mind

There’s heaps happening on DB this month, as you’ll see in our opening pages. Of course we’ve got the dragon boat festival, and I’m also planning to hit the flea market in DB Plaza, help in the beach clean-up at Sam Pak Wan, and tune into some Jazz at 22º North. See you there!

Our lead story this issue is going to blow you away, as DB resident Anita Moorjani shares her incredible near-death experience with us, and reveals the lessons she learnt in the afterlife. Anita believes there are no divisions of race or religion, and her inspiring message of love is that we all must live life fearlessly and to the full. Incidentally, Anita’s book, Dying to Be Me, is climbing bestseller lists around the world, and Oprah loves it! Quite a scoop for Around DB! For the rest, find out what it takes to be a competitive dragon boater, how to update your home-entertainment system, and why a big-ticket

trip to the Seychelles is a definite must-do. And if you are thinking of going on the waggon (or falling off it) turn to the very last page, so that Dr James Oliver of Island Health can inspire you into sobriety.

This month, we also look at your birthing options here in Hong Kong (all you DB parents will love Richard Leschinsky’s brilliantly funny illustration), and hear from an anonymous DB family about the latest in online/ outdoor orienteering. Geocaching, anyone?

YOUR

DRAGON BOAT

BIRTHING OPTIONS

SEASON Introducing

Where to do it in Hong Kong

DB's paddlers “We are all meant to shine, as children do.”

NELSON MANDELA

Anita

DB Pirates’ Annual Ball Photos by Karen Sisterson and James Branch

Some 220 DB Pirates and dazzling damsels celebrated the end of the season at Zaks in the Plaza on May 19.

On the night, there was a blood-curdling ‘year in review’ video screening and an awards’ presentation. While Coach of the Year went to Ed Sisterson for his work with the Under 11 boys, Clare Hotchin was named Pirate of the Year for her services to the club – particularly for overseeing all the travel arrangements (DB does not yet have a proper rugby pitch for training/ games). Phil Baldwin, club chairman was honoured by the club as he steps down this month. After dinner, the party moved onto 22° North and Hemingway’s for live music from @One and Rubicube. Registration for the DB Pirates 2012/ 13 season will open in mid-June, go to www.dbpirates.com.

One DBer shares lessons from the afterlife JUNE 2012

Publishers in DB since 2002

On the cover: Anita Moorjani’s lessons beyond dying

Publisher

Corinne Jedwood corinne@arounddb.com Editor

Rachel Ainsley editor@arounddb.com Community news

Dana Winograd dana@arounddb.com Advertising

Lissa Morris lissa@arounddb.com Art direction

Terry Chow cckterrychow@gmail.com Photography

In DB: Tracey van Geest tracey@inspiredimages.co In South Lantau: Zoe Lyle zlyle@me.com Illustration

Richard Leschinsky Accounts

Lise Dooling accountant@arounddb.com Contributors this month

Andrew Dembina Gordon Franks Megaen Kelly Elizabeth Kerr Catharine Nicol James Oliver Sarah Sanesi Mary Singer Lori Campbell Tighe General enquiries

info@arounddb.com

Congratulations to the DBees, who competed in the Mega Ice Hockey 5s Tournament, the largest icehockey tournament in Asia, May 8-12 at MegaBox in Kowloon. This year the competition was very tough. The four DB teams had a great time, learned a lot and can’t wait for the season to begin again in September. To become a DBee visit www.dbeeshockey.com.

Photos by Chris Riggs

Rehabilitation Bus – DBers raising funds Photos by Tracey van Geest and courtesy of DB Services Management Ltd

Published by

Bay Media Limited Flat 230, Block D, DB Plaza Discovery Bay, Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2987 0577 Fax: (852) 2987 0533 Disclaimer The views expressed in Around DB

are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.

Inter-Asian ice hockey

Edwin Stevens

ACCESSDB officially kicked off on May 6 in DB Plaza. This event was held to raise awareness about the DB rehabilitation bus which will provide much-needed transportation for residents with disabilities. So far HK$650,000 has been raised: HK$500,000 from Hong Kong Broadband Network Ltd and HK$150,000 from private donations from three City Owners Committee members. There is still a long way to go before reaching the target of HK$1.3 million, so the community appeal continues. At the event, Edwin Stevens, a young DB resident, volunteered to be the project ambassador. For more information, call 2238 3601.

DBIS Olympic torch walk and relay Photos courtesy of DBIS

As the entry point into its International Primary Curriculum (IPC) unit on the Olympics (which all of the primary year groups studied), Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) held an Olympic torch walk and relay on May 8. Starting at the kindergarten campus, students walked together, picking up more students – and colour – along the way, finally reaching the primary campus for the opening ceremony. The morning's festivities also included singing, dancing, karate, gymnastics and an orchestral performance by the students.

Local sprinters succeed at Action Asia Photos by Beverley Smith and courtesy of Michael Maddess

There was a record entry of over 500 participants for the fourth and final segment of the Bonaqua Mountain Hardwear Action Sprint, which headed out from the Plaza on May 6. DB names featured amongst the top winners: Emma Bruce (second place Overall Women) and Cheung Wai Hung (third place Overall Men). Cameron Smith, Andreas Thorsen and Emile Touzard were the top three in the boys’ 14 to 19 category and Natasha Christensen and Amanda Thorsen placed first and third respectively in the girls’ 14 to 19.

Lantau Island was well represented with Clement Dumont from Mui Wo and Zein Williams from Pui O both taking first place in their categories.

Check www.actionasiaevents.com for exciting year-round events.

DB netballers score big Having put a lot of effort into their weekly training and league games since October, the DB Pirates Netball teams’ hard work finally paid off on May 5. The Black Pearls won the second division grand finals against the Valley Pumas in a nail-biting game which ended with a score of 35-26. The Buccaneers came in second in the third division. Although the Jolly Rogers didn’t make the finals, they must be commended for their tremendous improvement over the season and for their fighting spirit on tournament day. Contact the DB Pirates at jessicajbowden@yahoo.co.uk.

June 2012

11

DB teams excel at Soccer 7s Photos by Karen Sisterson and courtesy of Neil Jensen

Congratulations to the Discovery Bay Football Club (DBFC) team who made it to the semi-finals of the Masters Cup at the HKFC Citibank International Soccer 7s. At the Hong Kong Football Club, May 1821, the DB team put up a great fight but lost 2-1 to the Ajax All Stars, who went on to win the final 6-1. DBFC player Teddy Sheringham later met up with fans in the Plaza for a signing session. The DB Dragons were also a force to be reckoned with at the Soccer 7s: both the Under 12s and Under 11s won the plate; the Under 9s made it to the cup semi-finals and the Under 8s were the runners up for the cup. The Under-9 second team just missed winning the plate, and the Under-8 second team made it to the cup semi-finals. To play for the DB Dragons next season, contact greg@dragons.hk or go to www.dragons.hk.

Family fun day triathlon Photos by Jenny Mathers and James Branch

DB was abuzz with multi-sports activity on May 20, when 100 kids and their parents joined the AgeasSports World Triathlon Relay at Club Siena. The child-parent team format made for some excellent bonding.

Parents had the hardest time during the bike leg, as they had to ride their offspring's oftentimes tiny bikes, giving rise to some hilarious scenes! Both kids and parents had a great time, and the Lantau Buffalos plans to organise this tri-relay once a year from now on.

Check out www.lantaubuffalos.org for more information.

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JUNE 2012

JUNE AT A GLANCE

IN & AROUND DB

WHEN

WHAT

WHERE

June 3

Capoeira Graduation

Tai Pak Beach

June 3

DB Flea Market

DB Plaza

June 8, 9am-1pm

DB Green Beach Clean-up

Sam Pak Wan (North Plaza)

June 8, 6.30pm-9pm

Apron Strings – Sharpen Your Palate

Discovery College

June 8-10

Island Dance – The Voyage of Dance

Y-Theatre, Hong Kong

June 9, 4pm

DB Tigers Exhibition Baseball Game

DB North Plaza Pitch

June 16, 11am-12.30pm

Annual Graduation Ceremony of YMCA

YMCA HKCC School Hall, Tung Chung

June 17, 4.30pm

DMR School of Ballet – Bella Ballerina

Discovery College

June 21

The Treble JazzSeries – Guy LeClaire

22˚ North

June 23, 8am-6pm

Dragon Boat Festival

DB Plaza, Tai Pak Beach

June 23, 11am-12.30pm

Free Seminar on Breast Feeding by Heidi Lam

Club Siena

June 23-24

DMR School of Ballet – Peas, Carrots and Candy Floss

Discovery College

June 24, 11am-6pm

Dragon Boat Festival

DB Plaza

June 30

Sai Kung Boat Trip

Contact Discovery Bay Recreation Club

If you organise an event, club or charity that you would like to see featured in this section, please contact dana@arounddb.com.

Win a water

dispenser

COMPETITION

Natural Springs Australia is serious about its water. Sourced from one of Australia’s finest protected aquifers in the ancient mountains of Victoria, its natural spring water undergoes a rigorous annual testing process, governed by the Australasian Bottled Water Association.

To suit your needs, Natural Springs Australia delivers hot and cold floor-standing dispensers, desktop dispensers, room-temperature desktop dispensers and kiddie dispensers to homes and offices across DB and Hong Kong. Dispenser setup and maintenance services are also available.

For more details, visit www.naturalsprings.hk.

Natural Springs Australia is offering two lucky readers the chance to win a water dispenser (for one year) and six 15-litre bottles of water (value HK$1,138).

This offer includes delivery and dispenser set-up. The first two readers who can tell us which state the water is sourced from will win. Please email us at info@arounddb.com (subject line: Natural Springs Australia).

Father’s Day celebrations

The third Sunday of June (this year: June 17) is the most popular day to honour fathers in many countries around the world, including Hong Kong. The other popular months for Father’s Day celebrations are March and September, the latter being the month chosen by our Antipodean neighbours. Book your favourite restaurant in D Deck or the North Plaza early, as we are sure everyone will want to spoil their Dads with a special dinner out. Happy Father's Day!

Congratulations to last month’s winners Mary Inns for a pair of two-day admission programmes to the HKFC Citibank International Soccer 7s; Jamie Frank and Susie Kwan for a pair of tickets each to see The Punchline Comedy Club; Kristy Baron and Ong Kim Lian for one month’s free art classes at ColourStorm Art Centre; Frances Yip and Vamsi Potukuchi for a copy of Driving Lantau – Whisper of an Island. Please call our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.

If you organise an event, club or charity that you would like to see featured in this section, please contact dana@arounddb.com

14

June 2012

JUNE 2012

Dragon Boating

Take home Steve Barnes'

new kids’ book

in DB

On June 23 and 24, don’t miss DB’s annual Dragon Boat festival on Tai Pak Beach and in DB Plaza. The real highlight of the weekend is the fierce-looking dragon boats racing to the beat of heavy drums. The boat races will take place on June 23 from 8am to 6pm.

The carnival in the Plaza will be held from 11am to 6pm on both days and will include vendors, food stalls and game booths. You can read more about the DB dragon boat paddlers from the Lantau Island Outrigger Canoe Club (LIOCC) in this month’s profile.

Steve Barnes is a British interior designer, artist and writer, who has lived in DB for the past 19 years. Steve's first (beautifully illustrated) children's book has just been published in the USA and is now available locally at Bookazine. Hector is the story of a hippo with unusual black-and-white skin which makes him the target of hurtful teasing from the other hippos on the riverbank. But when a chance encounter opens Hector's eyes to true friendship, and a dangerous circumstance puts him to the test, he begins to realise qualities of character he never knew he had. This poignant story underscores the values of forgiveness and respect for differences, and the need to see beyond external appearances – important messages for kids growing up in a globally aware era.

COMPETITION

Photo courtesy of LIOCC

Steve Barnes is offering a signed copy of Hector to five lucky readers who can tell us how many years he has lived in DB. The first five readers to email us the correct answer will each win a copy of the book. Please email us at info@arounddb.com (subject line: Hector).

Nutrition-boosting Giveaway At Nutrition Plus, the aim is to help you get more out of life by improving your overall wellness through great nutrition. For your convenience, founder and nutritionist Megan Jack offers home visits in DB. She focuses on improving your health by providing specialised and targeted nutritional advice. During the consultation you’ll be asked questions about your medical and food history, and provided with advice on portions and what to eat. By addressing your challenges and stresses, Megan tailors each consultation to enable you to achieve your goals. For more information, check out www.nutritionplushk.com.

COMPETITION

IN & AROUND DB

Nutrition Plus is offering one lucky reader a home consultation with Megan worth HK$700. To win this great prize, be the first reader to name three health conditions which, in your opinion, can be helped through proper nutrition. Email your answer to info@arounddb.com (subject line: Nutrition Plus).

DBICC supports Mother's Choice

Mother's Choice, a well-respected organisation which provides pregnancy services, foster care, and care for orphans and children with special needs is recruiting local families to foster children, usually new-borns to eight years of age, with special needs.

Last month, Discovery Bay International Community Church (DBICC) organised a presentation with them to encourage DB families interested in providing foster care. To find out more, contact Mother's Choice at 2537 4122 or email foster@motherschoice.org.

June 2012

15

JUNE 2012

IN & AROUND DB

Lantau New chef at incinerator McSorley’s

on hold

Photo courtesy of www.epd.gov.hk

The good news is that the decision regarding the Shek Kwu Chau incinerator has been officially postponed till mid-June to allow for the new government of C.Y. Leung to better understand the situation. While many island dwellers are up in arms about having a gigantic waste incinerator so close to our shores, the government’s concerns are typically thought to be financial, rather than environmental. For an update, contact Tom at skcincinerator@gmail.com or take a look at the Living Islands Movement website, www.livingislands.org.hk.

Bengali-born chef, Zurath Kamdin has promoted Indian regional cooking in Saudi Arabia and Dubai, and now he’s all set to spice up McSorley’s in DB. “India is a country with timeless culture and cuisine, where the flavour of food, language and lifestyle changes every 200 kilometres,” Zurath tells us. “Food is perhaps the most important and debated subject in India, where the saying, ‘Roti, Makaan aur Kapda’ expresses the belief that ‘food precedes the home and clothes’.” If you want some authentic Indian food right here in DB Plaza, we suggest you head to McSorley’s and experience Zurath’s new recipes.

Free hair-cut or makeup session,

anyone?

COMPETITION

Kathleen Kipper is an international hair and makeup artist who has chosen Hong Kong as her latest stop in a whirlwind international career with over a decade in the industry. Her talent covers everything from that great, low-maintenance haircut, to beautiful colourwork to high-end fashion looks, evening or wedding styles. (She speaks German, English and French and is confident she can create individual looks for all nationalities). Kathleen offers a private home service for clients’ ultimate convenience. For more information, check out www.kathleenkipper.weebly.com.

16

Kathleen Kipper is offering three lucky readers the chance to win a consultation, haircut and style or a one-hour full makeup consultation and application (value HK$400 – HK$700). Be one of the first three readers to email us at info@arounddb.com (subject line: Kathleen Kipper) the three languages that Kathleen speaks to win.

June 2012

Brazilian martial-arts’ batizado

Photo courtesy of William Indio

On June 3, DB will host Hong Kong’s firstever batizado (baptism) for local Capoeira students, who have recently started learning the Brazilian martial-art that combines elements of dance and music. At the event, being held on Tai Pak Beach, the students will demonstrate everything they've learned with DB-based teacher, William Indio – from acrobatics to kicks. The main point of the event is to welcome all the new participants into the Capoeira community; many teachers are attending from outside Hong Kong, including Contra-Mestre Nego Bola, the founder of Capoeira Camar. Interested? Contact William at hongkongcapoeira@gmail.com.

Launch of Soul Traders’ CD

Soul Traders has recorded its debut CD, Fragile, to raise awareness and funds for Animals Asia's work to end bear-bile farming. Local DB members are Jon Rebbeck, Vladimir Mikic and Vicky Lawrence. You can purchase a CD for HK$100 from Uncle Russ, Dymocks and Sports World, or you can download from Soul Traders’ website, www.soultraders-hk.com, the Soul Traders’ Facebook page or at www. animalsasia.org. Dates for your diary: Soul Traders will perform at D Deck on July 7 and 8, and August 4 and 5.

PLAYGROUPS IN DISCOVERY BAY BAYVIEW HOUSE OF CHILDREN, DB North Plaza 6114 2436; 8 months to 6 yrs; ramesha@bayview.hk; www.bayview.hk Bilingual English-Mandarin environment following AMI Montessori curriculum.

Unique in DB with an outdoor play area, gardening activities, pet caring, daily art education, themed-based circle times, science activites and more.

DUMPER TRUCKS AND DAISIES, DB Plaza 9667 6921; 6 months to 3 yrs; mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com A modern approach to both traditional and Montessori methods, all geared towards the needs of your children and their preparation for further education.

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP, The Greens 9511 2107; 2987 9644; 20 months to 4 yrs; info@earlyadventures.net; www.earlyadventures.net Warm and caring environment where children are offered exciting and interesting activities so they can achieve their full potential. A well-established playgroup with bright and spacious facilities. Morning and afternoon sessions available.

FIRST FRIENDS, SECOND FRIENDS, Club Siena 9151 5545; 8 months to 3+ yrs; firstsecondfriends@yahoo.com; www.firstfriendshk.com DB’s longest running playgroup. Parents and children’s groups. Small classes. Thousands of toys and lots of fun!

FUNFIT, Club Siena 6302 6327; 6 months to 6 yrs; melissa@funfit.hk; www.funfit.hk Active learning programme which helps to develop your child’s balance, coordination, fine and gross motor skills, hand eye coordination and much more! Caring for our children’s future health and fitness!

LES PETITS LASCARS DE DB, DB Plaza 2526 8892; 16 months up; db@petitslascars.com; www.lespetitslascars.com French/ Biligual (French & English/ Mandarin) kindergarten for children aged 2 to 6. French playgroups for children aged 16 months up. New location from Sept 2012.

LITTLE EXPLORERS, Phase 1 2987 2897; 9327 0507; 2 yrs up; littleexplorers@team-fear.com A well-established playgroup in DB. Caring and stimulating learning environment with an emphasis on learning through play and having loads of fun!

MIDGET GEMS KID’S CLUB, DB Plaza 2987 0272; 2 to 4 yrs; info@midgetgemskidsclub.com; www.midgetgemskidsclub.com Established and dedicated DB Plaza playgroups in English, German, Mandarin and Spanish. It’s a great environment with the emphasis on the fun factor.

MOUNTAINVIEW MONTESSORI, Phase 1 33 months to 6 yrs; mountainview_montessori@hotmail.com Run by Montessori-trained teacher. The Montessori method nurtures every child’s natural curiosity for learning. It ignites creativity and self-worth.

JUST ARRIVED – fabulous tankinis!

MYKIDZPLACE, Siena 2 6496 8662; 18 months to 6 yrs; my_kidz_place@yahoo.com.hk Mandarin playgroup sessions for children. Native teacher speaking only Mandarin throughout the class to create an environment where children can pick up the target language effortlessly with various interactive activities.

PLAYTIME, Cherish 2623 4099; 9054 0565; 18 months to 4 yrs; playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com Playgroup run by a Montessori-trained teacher with lots of experience. A great place to learn in a caring environment. The playgroup is open five days a week.

www. sunwood-by-design.com At Treat Boutique Tuesdays to Fridays 10am to 2.30pm

6626 5470

Available in these three body enhancing colors.

Sizes: 34-36”, 36”-38”, and 38”-40” chest

SUNDAY 17TH JUNE, SHOP 106A (NEXT TO THE GAS SHOWROOM) 10.00AM - 6.00PM (CHANGING ROOMS ARE AVAILABLE) Swimwear for the “real women”. Sunwood will mix your bikini top and bottom sizes at no extra cost to you.

Sarongs, cover-ups, beach bags and hats - all you could want for a day by the pool or on the beach.

YOUR GUIDE TO SUMMER CAMPS 2012 Get wild! Get sporty! Get creative! Get wise!

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

MOTIV8 at Club Siena, DB

Age 4 to 11; June 25 to Aug 13 (9.15am to 1pm) 2987 7382, 2987 7381 Tennis, soccer, rounders, basketball, cricket, kids’ yoga, indoor games, drawing and painting, and more.

Palm Beach Board Riding Camp, Cheung Sha

Age 7 to 14; July 4 to Aug 17 2980 4822, www.palmbeach.com.hk Stand Up Paddle Boarding, SkimBoarding and Indo Boarding.

Kids will quickly learn the correct techniques to skim and paddle effectively.

TIG Surf Camp in Pui O, Lantau

Age 5 to 15; June 25 to Aug 17 2984 8711, www.treasureislandhk.com Catch the waves this summer! At Treasure Island Surf Camp, kids learn surf skills and ocean safety. (See p.19)

12 13 14

DB Dragons Football Club, DBIS, DB

Age 5 and up; July 2 to Aug 17 (9am to 12pm) www.dragons.hk Week-long themed camps where kids play games, have fun, learn skills and compete in matches. The camp is open to everyone (not only DB Dragons’ members).

The British Studio of Art, DB

Age 5 to 12; July and Aug (mornings) www.bsoahk.com Arts-and-crafts include clay modelling, needle felting, painting on canvas, and more! All classes (10 kids max/ class) are taught in English by native-English speakers.

ColourStorm Art Centre, DB North Plaza

Age 4 and up; July 3 to Aug 17 2325 3999, www.colourstormartcentre.com Make it a creative summer: kids learn how to do acrylic and porcelain paintings, make tote-bags and t-shirts, and more.

(Early-bird special rate for advance bookings!) (See p.19)

La Petite Enfance, DB North Plaza

Age 2 to 12; July 3 to Aug 31 6710 0391, www.la-petite-enfance.com Designed to teach children French through fun activities and interesting experiences. Classes will take place every day from 9.15am to 11.45am and from 2pm to 4.30pm. (See p.71)

DMR School of Ballet, DB Plaza

Age 5 to 16; July 2 to14 (9.30am to 3pm) 2987 4338, www.dmr-hk.com More than just dance! Aside from the usual classes, DMR is also offering two special choreography camps this summer. (See p.25)

15 16 17 18

Early Adventures’ Learning Centre, The Greens, DB

Age 2 to 4; July 3 to Aug 31 (mornings) www.earlyadventures.net Different themes offered each week in a bright, fun and safe environment. Little Adventures is also providing special afternoon sessions for tiny tots aged 8 to 30 months.

Discovery Mind Kindergarten & Play Centre, Coastline & DB Plaza

Age 15 months to 8; July 9 to Aug 10 2987 8088, 2987 8028, www.dmk.edu.hk Different programmes for each age group: Summer Joy (age 3 to 6), Bilingual Playgroup (age 2 to 3), Art Camp (age 3, and 5 to 8) and English ‘Tworriffic’ (15 months to 2). (See p.4)

Wiseowl, DB

Age 6 to 11; June 25 to Aug 18 (9am to 12 noon) www.wiseowl.com.hk Wiseowl is hosting its popular ‘Published by You’ writing programme this summer! The children come home with their own bound book, personally written and illustrated. (See p.17)

Discovery Bay International School, DB

Age 4 to 8; July 2 to 27 (9am to 12 noon) 2987 7331, www.dbis.edu.hk DBIS is offering The Junior Active Programme; multi-disciplinary five-days courses to keep kids active all morning!

ESF Educational Services, Discovery College, DB

Age 3 and up; July 9 to Aug 11 2711 1280, www.esf.org.hk Summer-school courses for languages and sports. There will be Beginners’ Spanish, English through Sciences, Shakespeare In Summer and more! (See p.19)

Mandarin for Munchkins, DB North Plaza

Age 1 to 8; July 3 to Aug 31 2480 3909, www.mandarinformunchkins.com At this exciting and educational summer club, different activities are offered in Mandarin from Kung Fu Munchkins, to Story and Drama, and Mandarin Chef. (See p.73)

Sunshine House, DB

Age 12 months to 6; July 23 to Aug 24 www.sunshinehouse.com.hk This summer sign the kids up for some sunshine! Fun and inspiring activities include creative play, painting, arts, drama, poetry and singing, plus some interesting outings. (See p.77)

Acting Antics, Discovery College, DB

Age 5 to 12; June 25 to Aug 10 8122 9475, www.actingantics.com Do your kids love to act? If so let them take part in fun-filled, fully costumed original plays and musicals. At this camp, children can act, sing and dance to their hearts’ content! (See p.37)

TIG Sur f Cam

p

Bayview House of Children, BSME, DB North Plaza

Age 3 to 6; July 3 to 27 (8.45am to 11.45am) 6114 2436, www.bayview.hk Have a memorable summer with Bayview, offering amazing and captivating programmes for your child. (See p.17)

British School of Art

Midget Gems Kid’s Club, DB Plaza

Age 3 to 6; July 2 to Aug 17 (9am to 12 noon) www.midgetgemskidsclub.com Kids can expect games, arts and crafts, music and movement, role play, stories, and lots, lots more.

DMR Sc

h o o l of B

allet

Motiv8

Summer School Programme 2012 July 9th – August 11th Courses running at Discovery College and other ESF Schools throughout Hong Kong

Up

Up

& Away

Language & Sports Programmes for students aged 3+ Specialist Courses for Primary and Secondary Students Beginner Spanish Summer Programme NEW! English through the Sciences NEW! Shakespeare in Summer

VISIT

www.esf.org.hk

AND ENROL ONLINE TODAY!

Tel:

2711 1280 www.esf.org.hk In association with the English Schools Foundation

Hot ticket – Palm Beach fun day Palm Beach in Cheung Sha is hosting a SUP Board Crossover Skim Board Fun Day on June 3, from 11am to 6pm. The centre will be open for everyone to enjoy free try-outs of SUP Boarding, Skim Boarding, Grass Skim Boarding and Balancing Indo Boarding. There’ll be demonstrations from pro-riders, and professionals on hand to provide free introductory tips. From 6pm to 10pm, there’ll also be a barby on the beach – bring a plate of something to share. Email party@palmbeach.com.hk to confirm your space.

Photos courtesy of Palm Beach

Beachside Italian bistro now open

Be one of the first to stop by Lantana, an all-new Italian restaurant/ café/ bar on Cheung Sha Lower Beach. Officially opening this month, it’s a superb little al fresco diner specialising in freshly homemade pasta and pizza. Chef Mark, formerly of The Kitchen in Mui Wo, is already a favourite with Lantau foodies, and we can’t get enough of his tiramisu! The Around DB team also recommends the Italian wine by the glass, or better still by the bottle – Lantana is a member of Vintelligence, the Wanchai wine club. To reserve a table (Lantana is open seven days a week, for lunch and dinner), call Mark on 6331 8974.

SOUTH LANTAU Kelly Merrick 9331 8141 Kendri So 9211 4223 Andrew Merrick 3483 5003

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Great location with private feeling and lots of light.

Amazing mountain views! Live in the whole house or could be a duplex and lease out the G/F.

at Buddhist Fat Ho Memorial College (BFHMC) • Small classes • Low tuition: HKD300/month (10 months) • Culturally-diverse student population • Full English stream • Full Chinese stream • Local curriculum (HKDSE) • GCSE Chinese • School buses from Tung Chung and Mui Wo • Boarding houses available

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20

June 2012

EVENTS Lantau Youth Choir Open to children age seven and up, from all over the island, the Lantau Youth Choir puts the emphasis on fun – while no experience is necessary, enthusiasm, discipline and commitment are essential. The first six-week term started on May 19. Term two will start in September. Rehearsals are on Saturday mornings from 9.30am to 11am at the Mui Wo Sports Centre, with musical director, professional musician and piano teacher Rachel Thomas. The choir sings a mixture of classical, traditional, folk, pop, jazz and hip-hop.

Contact the choir at bizzielizzie.hk@gmail.com.

Disco parties for kids Did you know that a fantastic group of volunteer parents headed by Katie Norman has been organising kids’ discos for three years at Mui Wo Community Centre? At last month’s disco, the first hour was for five-year olds and under, with games and music to suit; the second hour was for children six years and over. It was fantastic to see so many parents dancing with their children, and families enjoying spending time together!

Send an email to katiebray@live.com.au for more information.

Photos by Eric Niemy

DB/ Mui Wo ferry service update Photos by Liz Hemmings

Most residents would agree that while they might not use the Mui Wo/ DB ferry on a regular basis, they would be disappointed if it stopped running. Kai To Ltd, the company who runs the ferries between DB and Mui Wo, tells us that its contract ends on August 8. But don’t worry, it’s unlikely we will lose the service. You can call 2983 8617 for information, and it might be handy to have a Chinese speaker close by.

Now you can shop online at Bizzie Lizzie Visit http://www.bizzielizzie.wazala.com

FERRY SCHEDULES From DB From Mui Wo

From DB From Mui Wo

www.bizzielizziehongkong.com Email: Bizzielizzie.hk@gmail.com Tel: 2984 2227 Tuesday to Saturday 10.30 to 6.30, Sunday 10.30 - 6.00, Monday closed.

Mon-Sat (except PH) Sun and PH only Sat, Sun and PH Mon-Fri (except PH) Sun and PH only

7:15am 8:45am 10:45am 11:00am 11:45am

7:45am 9:15am 11:15am 11:30am 12:15pm

Sat, Sun and PH Daily except Sat Daily Daily Sat, Sun and PH

June 2012

1:15pm 3:00pm 4:15pm 6:15pm 8:05pm

1:45pm 3:30pm 4:45pm 6:45pm 8:30pm

21

PROFILE

The 22 LIOCC paddlers, flanked by the drummer and steersman

pride of

Discovery Bay

Fitness, fun and friendship: Megaen Kelly finds out what drives the paddlers of dragon boats

Y

DB article that Kobi trekked the 250-kilometre International Gobi Marathon in 2011, and that she founded the DB 10K Charity Run. And while running is usually a solitary activity, Kobi enjoys the social aspect of being on a dragon boat team very much.

Women power

“We are friends out of the water as well as on the water,” Kobi says, when asked what makes a successful member of a dragon boat team. “You need teamwork and to be able to take direction. But no one yells at each other, even though we’re very competitive and want to win.”

ou’ve probably seen them training in the mornings while you are hurrying to catch the ferry to work. They look so fit, in addition to having so much fun. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a member of the Lantau Island Outrigger Canoe Club (LIOCC), and one of only two dragon boat teams on Lantau? Here are what a few of the members have to say about the excitement of being on a competitive dragon boat team.

Kobi Janssen, mother of two from Belgium, was already very athletic when she joined her first dragon boat team in 1998. Back then the DB racers were sponsored by Foster’s.

Kobi says she joined the team “because friends asked me, plus my husband was already a member”. She paddles for both the women’s team and the mixed team.

Prior to coming to Hong Kong in the 1990s, Kobi hadn’t participated in any sports. Now, in addition to outrigging – which is the primary focus of the LIOCC as dragon boat racing is seasonal – she participates in trail walking and beach volleyball. You’ll remember from a previous Around

22

June 2012

This sentiment is echoed by Lecia Pringle, also a member of the LIOCC women’s and mixed teams. “Once we’re on the water, it’s game on. The racing makes the training all worthwhile.” Lecia hadn’t taken part in any sports activities prior to joining the team four years ago. A teacher at Discovery College with two children of her own and originally from Canada, Lecia – like Kobi – joined the dragon boat team on the urging of her husband.

Lecia has some advice for people who are considering joining a dragon boat team. “Don’t wait another second,” she says. “There are no prerequisites to joining, and if you are

Photos by Tracey van Geest

PROFILE

Joost Ameye, committed coach since 2005

ď‚„

June 2012

23

PROFILE

All-aboard for the DB dragon boat races!

comfortable in the water as well as on the water – because the boats can be flipped – then becoming part of a team is enjoyable. I really like the camaraderie we have.

“Dragon boating takes sports to another level,” Lecia adds.

“Getting a large group of people to work together in sync is not easy, but it’s a terrific team sport.”

43 centimetres-deep space – facing the bow. There is also a drummer and a steersman.

In Hong Kong, dragon boat season runs from April to June.

The LIOCC usually practice twice a week for the various races held during this time. This training is crucial, as new paddlers have to learn the various strokes required, plus getting 20 people to do something simultaneously takes effort.

In charge, but not the drummer Coach Joost Ameye, from Belgium (he’s the person who got Kobi to join!) agrees with Lecia. For him the most enjoyable (and challenging) part of the experience is getting “all the people together in timing and power, so that the boat jets forward like a well-oiled machine”.

Joost joined the Foster’s team back in 1998. Then it morphed into Team Fear (Far East Adventure Races) around 2001. The LIOCC formed in 2005, and it has been going from strength to strength ever since. Joost has been the coach since 2005.

Now comprising more than 50 paddlers, the LIOCC welcomes both members and non-members to participate in its activities. At the DB dragon boat races, sponsored by the City Owner’s Committee (COC) under the auspices of HK Resort International, the LIOCC fields four teams: two mixed, a men’s and a women’s.

“People have to understand their own fitness level,” Joost notes. “And incidentally, since women are more technical than men, they pick up the strokes more quickly.”

Joost joined the team originally because “it was a different team sport on water that had a Chinese tradition. Plus it looked like a lot of fun!”

The ins and outs of dragon boating A traditional dragon boat is made of teakwood, although the LIOCC practices in a fiberglass boat these days.

Back when Joost and Kobi joined, they had an original teakwood boat, weighing over 1,000 kilograms. But it was difficult and expensive to maintain, and has since gone to dragon boat heaven.

Racing teams typically field 22 people in a boat – 20 racers who sit side-by-side in a 11.6 metres-long, 1 metre-wide,

24

June 2012

And while the yearly membership fee and race fees may look expensive on paper, Joost says that compared to many other sports in Hong Kong, it is really a bargain. As he puts it, “If you want some serious fun, look for a team that is serious in the boat and has fun out of it!” That sounds like what DB dragon boating is all about.

2012 DB dragon boat weekend Races: June 23 from 8am–6pm on Tai Pak Beach, Discovery Bay Carnival: June 23-24 from 11am–6pm, Discovery Bay Plaza, with a cheerleading show as well as music and dance performances Contact: the LIOCC at www.liocc.com

Did you know?

• The Dragon Boat Festival, which falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese calendar, is said to have originated in 278 BC, when Qu Yuan, a poet and statesman during the Warring States era, who was rebelling against a corrupt ruler, committed suicide by drowning. The story goes that the local people, who admired Qu Yuan, dropped sticky rice triangles wrapped in bamboo leaves into the river to feed him in the afterlife. Locals were also said to have paddled out on boats, either to scare the fish away or to retrieve his body • Dragon boats are decorated with the head and tail of a dragon to help bring good luck to paddlers • If you swim in the water just after a dragon boat race, many believe you are guaranteed good health for the rest of the year

Summer Program 2012 More than just Dance!

Check out some of our dance classes!

Fun ballet, Song & Dance, Fun Jazz or Tap Class JUNIOR CHOREOGRAPHY CAMP 5-day fun camp during which time our young participants take part daily in a dance class, an art and design session, a choreography session and yummy snack breaks. All of the work will be put together for a final show scheduled during the final class.

5-9 years, July 9 – 14, 2012 – 9.30am to 3.00pm TEEN CHOREOGRAPHY CAMP 5-day fun camp during which time our teen participants take part daily in a dance class, an art and design session, a choreography session and surprise field trips. All of their work will be put together for a final performance scheduled during the final class.

11 - 16 years, July 2 – 7, 2012 – 9.30am to 3.00pm

Get ready to be part of the fun and Have a Hip Hop Holiday!

TELL A FRIEND !

MAIN STUDIO:

112 DB PLAZA, DISCOVERY BAY, LANTAU www. dmr-hk.com / info@dmr-hk.com Tel: 29874338

INFOCUS

Photos by Tracey van Geest

Anita Moorjani with her bestselling book, chronicling her path from cancer through death to total healing

26

June 2012

INFOCUS

lessons

beyond dying A

nita Moorjani never felt she belonged in her life. She grew up in Hong Kong speaking fluent Cantonese, English and an Indian dialect, yet she felt she failed at all three cultures. British school bullies called her ‘Sambo’, ‘Pakkie’ and ‘wog’. Her Indian community reproached her for breaking traditions. Her beloved Chinese amah’s world remained impassable to her.

But as much as she feared living, she feared dying more.

Cancer of fear

Death prematurely arrived for her in 2006, when Anita fell into a coma from end-stage Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at age 40. Anita heard doctors tell her distraught husband she couldn’t be saved. Then she felt herself expand from her body to another dimension. Brilliant, unconditional love surrounded her and she understood why she had cancer, what her life’s purpose was, and why she wanted to live.

She awoke from the coma and then rapidly healed from cancer, to her doctors’ disbelief.

Anita feared chemotherapy because her friend died during treatment, so she went the holistic route. After four years of fighting, the cancer ravaged her body and shrouded her in pain. “It was horrible,” she says quietly. “I weighed 86 pounds. I had to use a portable oxygen tank. I couldn’t hold my head up. I had open, weeping skin lesions. I had lemon-sized tumours throughout my torso and neck. It was extremely painful.”

Anita, a DB resident for three years, began an international tour in February speaking about her new debut book, Dying to be Me, recounting her near-death experience and dramatic recovery. She believes her lessons from the afterlife triggered her healing. She is also a subject of a public television special, Wishes Fulfilled, which aired in the US in March, hosted by Dr Wayne Dyer, bestselling author and motivational speaker.

Anita’s story ‘stands out’ among a decade of more than 2,500 recorded near-death experiences (NDEs), according to Jeffrey Long, M.D., founder of the non-profit Near Death Experience Research Foundation in the US. “Anita's NDE is among the most remarkable ever shared with the foundation,’’ says Long, who published the book, Evidence of the Afterlife, in 2010.

Photos by Tracey van Geest

DBer Anita Moorjani speaks with Lori Campbell Tighe about her incredible near-death experience and her new book, now on the New York Times bestseller list, Dying to Be Me

Prior to her illness, fear ruled Anita’s life: fear of offending people, fear of disappointing them, and fear of dying from cancer. In suspended disbelief, she watched two people, her best friend and her brother-in-law, both her age, die from cancer. Then in December 2002, a full-body scan revealed she had Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

Finally Anita’s organs began shutting down and she didn’t wake up on February 2, 2006. As paramedics rushed her swollen, comatose body to the Hong Kong Sanatorium Hospital, her surroundings turned dreamlike and her senses intensified. She saw and heard everything around her, even through walls. She no longer experienced any pain, instead she felt ecstatic. She wanted to tell her family, ‘Please don’t cry for me, I’ve never felt better in my life!’ “I felt euphoric,” she says. “Heaven is a state of being, not a place. It felt like coming home.”

Love yourself, live fearlessly In the afterlife, everything became clear to Anita. She realised she had been blind to her true self before the coma. “It was like living in a dark warehouse and then the lights turned on. For the first time I could see everything,”

June 2012



27

INFOCUS

she says. Anita felt her ‘magnificence’, a word she uses frequently in her book. “I felt invincible, powerful. We’re a lot greater than who we think we are. We’re all a part of God and connected to each other,” she says.

Anita began to understand why she had developed cancer.

“I did everything out of fear, not out of love,” she says.

“We’re not supposed to live a life of fear. I had been afraid to be who I am.”

Anita discovered her purpose in life was simple: to love herself and be true to herself. Her emotions would guide her and she shouldn’t repress them. Even the ‘bad’ emotions, like anger and jealousy, should be felt and then allowed to pass.

“Living from a point of self-love makes it difficult for people to harm themselves or each other,” she says. “If we all loved ourselves and were true to ourselves, we wouldn’t need hospitals or prisons.

We are all pure love. There are no divisions of religion, race or culture.”

the coma, believes the chemotherapy cured her cancer, according to a South China Morning Post story in 2007.

Up to her coma, Anita had refused chemotherapy and sought holistic treatment from Dr Brian Walker, who believes it changed her cell structure, allowing the chemo to work.

But Ko disagrees. “Based on my own experience and the opinions of several colleagues, I am unable to attribute her dramatic recovery to her chemotherapy,” he said in 2006.

“The exact result mechanism is unknown to us, but not

Then to her amazement, Anita felt the presence of her father who had died 10 years ago. For much of her life she had struggled internally against her father’s unyielding beliefs, but those feelings fell away. “My father said to me, ‘This is the farthest you can go.

Anita with her husband Danny, who says I want you to go back and live life his gorgeous wife is no guru fearlessly.’” At first, Anita didn’t want to return to her sick, withered body.

“As I started understanding my body would reflect who likely to be the result of cytotoxic drugs.” Ko speculated I am, I understood I would have a total healing. I just that some non-physical information switched off Anita’s needed to allow it, not pursue it.” mutated genes.

Anita woke from her coma 24 hours after it began. Two days later she breathed on her own. Four days later, they moved her out of intensive care. Tests soon showed all signs of cancer left her body. The open lesions, which doctors said required skin grafts, began healing on their own. Anita says simply, “I knew something huge had happened.”

Believers and sceptics

28

Six years on, Ko still considers Anita’s recovery ‘extraordinary’. “Whatever holistic treatments she underwent, her condition progressed to the point of multiple organ failure and impending death,” he says.

“While the lymphoma is a chemo-responsive cancer, the advanced stage and vital organ dysfunction made it a very treacherous battle. Hence, her response was ‘dramatic’ from a clinical perspective.”

Anita says matter-of-factly, “I know it wasn’t the chemo that cured me and it wasn’t the holistic medicine – it was the altered state of my consciousness.”

Doctors connected to Anita’s case all said she was lucky to be alive. Dr Peter Ko, an American oncologist who came to Hong Kong from the University of Southern California to review her case in October 2006, joked with her, “Lady, whichever way I look at it, you should be dead!”

He has the bounce

Doctors disagree about what caused her recovery, but all call it ‘remarkable’. Dr T.K. Chan, who treated her in

Whatever lay behind it, her family considered Anita’s recovery a miracle. “You know the cartoon Ziggy? When 

June 2012

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INFOCUS

he’s happy he has the bounce. That’s how I felt with a big, silly grin on my face. I was bouncing up and down,” says her husband, Danny Moorjani, also raised by Indian parents while attending British schools in Hong Kong.

When Anita awoke, she told Danny and her mother, she knew she would heal. “I thought, ‘That’s fine, but is it delusional toxic build-up?’” Danny says. “Then she started to describe stuff she shouldn’t have been aware of, like when the doctor said she’s not going to make it. You hear about these things (NDEs) with some level of scepticism. I witnessed it first-hand – holy crap.”

As Anita continued to talk about her near-death experience in the coming months, her husband urged her to write about it for cathartic release. She posted her NDE on the Near Death Experience Research Foundation website.

People began reading her story and interest grew. “At first I was hesitant to share my story,” Anita says. “I don’t want people to resent me. I don’t feel special. But a lot of people told me your story needs to be told. It brings hope and healing.”

Her unfolding path led her in 2011 to motivational speaker, Dyer, who was diagnosed with cancer (chronic lymphocytic

leukemia) two years ago. He was struck by Anita’s story, which confirmed like ‘an exclamation mark’ many of his beliefs, including his faith in Jesus’ words: “With God, all things are possible.” Dyer wrote in his foreword to Anita’s book, “Anita was able to heal her body and told me on many occasions that she felt she came back to teach this simple but powerful lesson, which could not only heal you, but transform our world as well.”

Dyer encourages Christ-like and Buddha-like living, but opposes organised religion because he says it divides people. “Anita’s story suggests,” he says, “that in the true presence of the God-realised, the laws of the material world do not apply.”

Although his wife escaped death and now touts her NDE message, Danny Moorjani doesn’t recommend anyone call her a guru.

“She’s not comfortable with that. She’s trying to say to people, let’s get off the guru crap. You be you and I’ll be me and let’s get on with life. I do not see a guru,” Danny says. “I see a woman who’s very, very, very comfortable with herself,” he chuckles. “I wish I could be as comfortable as she is.”

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FAMILY MATTERS

32

June 2012

FAMILY MATTERS

oh baby!

Where and how you choose to give birth can either enhance the life experience or diminish it.

Sarah Sanesi advises on the best hospital options for DBers in Hong Kong

S

o you’ve just received the wonderful confirmation that you are pregnant, and now you have a very big decision to make: where is this bundle of joy going to be born? The two most popular options in Hong Kong are either The Matilda International Hospital (private) or Queen Mary Hospital (public) but of course these are not the only places offering great maternity facilities.

Although home-births may be a popular choice in your hometowns, they are not so easy to organise in Hong Kong, as most doctors believe in having the accessibility of emergency facilities should anything go wrong. It is possible, however, to arrange a home-birth privately with a midwife as long as you meet her strict criteria.

As a starting point, I would suggest that you sit down with your partner and discuss your needs and expectations. Then you can proceed with your research: attending hospital tours, educating yourself by talking to an experienced midwife and/ or getting the support and valuable information you need from a qualified baby planner. Of course you can always speak with friends who have experienced giving birth in Hong Kong but you will often find this information is bias to their requirements rather than yours.

Public versus private When choosing between public and private hospitals, there are numerous factors to take into consideration.

Firstly, do you have insurance to cover or help pay for the medical bill. Private hospital bills can be extremely costly, especially if you have an unplanned emergency,

June 2012

ď‚„

33

FAMILY MATTERS whereas public hospitals are very cost-friendly. Note too that there is a higher Caesarean (C-section) rate in private hospitals; approximately 50% of all births compared to an estimated 25% at public hospitals.

In a private hospital the obstetrician/ gynaecologist (OBGYN) who followed you through your pregnancy will deliver your baby and respect your birth plan, whereas you will not be able to access your own OB-GYN in a public hospital nor are birth plans always respected. In addition, some of the public hospitals are ‘teaching hospitals’ so you may be assisted by students, who can also observe your delivery.

Consider too that partners are not always allowed to witness the birth nor are private midwives allowed to enter the labour room in public hospitals, whereas if you go private your back-up team can even accompany you into the operating room in case of an emergency or planned C-section. Likewise the ratio of patients per midwife is very low in private hospitals, which guarantees the patient a great deal of personalised support for breastfeeding, nursing etc.

Private hospitals offer private, semi-private and shared wards of four patients, whereas public hospitals can have up to 10 patients on a ward. English is spoken in all private hospitals whereas most nurses in public hospitals speak Cantonese and/ or Mandarin with maybe some English.

At public hospitals, meanwhile, you will be given Chinese food, with the emphasis on health and weight loss. Private

Talk to a baby planner about your hospital options

hospitals often offer an extensive international menu – something that sounds great but can encourage you to consume too many calories.

Another point to consider when choosing your hospital is the distance you will have to travel from Discovery Bay, taking into account whether you will get a bus and a taxi (to Kowloon) or whether you will need to get a ferry (to Central) and then a taxi to the hospital. I would highly recommend that a route plan is put in place and a practice run is carried out before the big day.

I would also point out at this stage that the popular hospitals, private and public, get booked up very early. It’s advisable 

Public & hospitals HOSPITAL

WEBSITE

ADDRESS

CONTACT INFORMATION

Queen Mary Hospital

www.ha.org.hk/qmh

102 Pokfulam Road, Pokfulam

qmh_enquiry@ha.org.hk 2255 3111 or 2255 3838

Queen Elizabeth Hospital

www.ha.org.hk/qeh

30 Gascoigne Road, Kowloon

qeh_webmaster@ha.org.hk 2958 8888

Prince of Wales Hospital

www.ha.org.hk/pwh

30 Ngan Shing Street, Shatin, New Territories

pwh_enquiry@ha.org.hk 2632 2211

Princess Margaret Hospital

www.ha.org.hk

2 Princess Margaret Hospital Road, Lai Chi Kok, Kowloon

pmh.enquiry@ha.org.hk 2786 3629

Tuen Mun Hospital

www.ha.org.hk/tmh

23 Tsing Chung Koon Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories

ntwc.spa@ha.org.hk 2468 5404 or 2468 5417

HOSPITAL

WEBSITE

ADDRESS

CONTACT INFORMATION

Adventist Hospital

www.hkah.org.hk

40 Stubbs Road, The Peak

hkahinfo@hkah.org.hk 3651 8888

Tsuen Wan Adventist Hospital

www.twah.org.hk

199 Tsuen King Circuit, Tsuen Wan, New Territories

info@twah.org.hk 2276 7676

Hong Kong Baptist Hospital

www.hkbh.org.hk

222 Waterloo Road, Kowloon

2339 7200

The Matilda International Hospital

www.matilda.org

41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak

2849 0321

Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital

www.hksh.com/en

2 Village Road, Happy Valley

hospital@hksh.com 2572 0211

Canossa Hospital

www.canossahospital.org.hk

1 Old Peak Road, The Peak

enquiry@canossahospital.org.hk 2522 2181

St. Paul’s Hospital

www.stpaul.org.hk

2 Eastern Hospital Road, Causeway Bay

stpaulhk@stpaul.org.hk 2830 3755

Union Hospital

www.union.org

18 Fu Kin Street, Tai Wai, Shatin, New Territories

csa_cc@union.org 2608 3388

Private hospitals

34

June 2012

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FAMILY MATTERS

to submit a deposit early on in order to confirm your place and avoid disappointment. Note too, that a public hospital has to admit you and provide you with labour-room facilities, whereas in a private hospital your spot is not guaranteed until the day you go into labour and you can be turned away.

Finally, a very wise friend of mine said to me, it is always worth remembering that in the event of an emergency the baby would always be admitted to a public hospital. Private hospitals are not well-equipped to handle unexpected and/ or unusual medical emergencies.

Hear it from some DB mums One DB mum says, “I had a scheduled C-section at The Matilda and I am very, very happy with my hospital choice!

I really wish to have number two there one day! I had a lot of problems with breastfeeding at the beginning and the midwives were extremely helpful. I can't imagine having better support! There was always somebody who helped me day and night. Nurses taught us everything, how to bathe our baby, change nappies, etc. When you're a first-time parent this is really important. We stayed in the hospital for five days and the last two days were our first family holiday: good food, nice view! I didn't want to go home. That said,

I didn't go for check-ups at The Matilda mostly because it was too far away for us.”

Another local mother says, “I had my first child at the Adventist Hospital and it was a wonderful experience but for my second child I decided to ‘go public’ and I had all my check-ups at Queen Mary Hospital. I didn’t find seeing a different OB-GYN each time a problem at all. The birth itself was fairly quick, although my husband still jokes about the oceans of blood! It’s true that since this was my second child I knew what to expect from the birth, and how to care for her, but I’d recommend the Queen Mary even to firsttime mums. The facilities were fabulous and I felt in very safe hands. I stayed on the ward for two nights after the birth and the nurses were always there to help. It’s true the shared ward was a bit of a challenge after my Adventist stay but totally do-able. And let’s face it, public hospitals provide an excellent price point!”

Sarah Sanesi is a holistic health practitioner, a certified baby planner and a ‘greenproofer’. She founded Baby Bloom in May 2011 to offer a wide range of services for families, including baby planning, greenproofing, domestic-helper services and eco-party planning. For more information, visit www.babybloom.com.hk

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MONEYMATTERS

Lead photo by Tracey van Geest, additional photo courtesy of Platinum Financial Services Ltd

let the good times roll

Retired DBers enjoying their financial independence

It’s never too early – or too late – to start planning for financial independence in your golden years, Gordon Franks reports

S

higher wages, housing allowances, education subsidies, health insurance and other perks. Expats may also find themselves with greater freedom when it comes to making investment decisions, as, unlike domestic investors, they are not usually caught in a restrictive regulatory net.

However, every silver lining has a cloud, and that cloud, for many expatriates, is retirement planning.

urvey after survey shows that ever-increasing numbers of people have active plans to leave their home countries either to work or to retire abroad.

In fact recent analysis from the UK indicates that an astonishing 75% of people had considered or were considering a move overseas. In Discovery Bay a large majority have already made this decision and a global trend has found that expats are tending to save more, perhaps in response to uncertain economic conditions.

Maintain your standard of living

Financially, expatriates could be said to be in a uniquely privileged position – if a company chooses to send an employee overseas, it will usually compensate them with

Many expats recoil at the words retirement or pension.

They sometimes state they will never retire, whereas I say ‘never say never’. But it is understandable that many long-

June 2012

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MONEYMATTERS

cannot access these except as income from a certain age. Most expats also have an asset pool which will supplement these pension provisions to provide for them in their golden years.

term expats feel they are invincible and will work until they drop. So maybe the word retirement is on a far horizon in many minds. It could be more aptly described as providing a standard of living or achieving financial independence.

Despite the fact that many actually choose to continue in business, they don’t need to rely on the income it produces.

Smarten up to compound interest

Others baulk at the word pension because perhaps they have the wrong impression of the intention of the word as used here. It is intended to describe assets, in any form you care to imagine, which will produce an income to maintain your financial independence.

So should you be doing anything about planning for your financial independence? The answer is a capital YES. No matter what age you are it is never too soon or too late to look at what you have today and then plan for your future.

The earlier you start the easier it will be for you.

Many of us have formal ‘pensions’ from our home governments and perhaps even previous employments. We

For example, a friend of mine, a DB expat, had a daughter and decided to begin a personal asset-accumulation plan for her from the time she was born. So he began a regular savings plan with HK$100 per month. He increased the amount saved each year by 10%. So in year two, for example, he was saving HK$110 each month. By the time his daughter was 18 he ceased the payments and gifted her the plan as a starter for her pension. At that point he had contributed a total of HK$54,719 into his daughter’s savings plan. She did not touch the assets but continued to leave them invested in the scheme.

At an average accumulation of between 7% and 8%, when she is in her mid-50s, the fund will have grown to a value in excess of HK$1 million – not a bad gift from Daddy!

Einstein once said that the most powerful force on earth is compound interest. Once the growth begins it tends to snowball more and more as time goes by. If you add the advantage of dollar-cost averaging to this, your assets can grow in a very powerful way. When you utilise dollar-cost averaging into investments, you buy in over a period of time and take advantage of price fluctuations for your asset purchase. So even if you feel you have left it a little late for pension planning there is still time to take advantage of these phenomena.

Make the most of a private-pension plan A professional adviser will be able to help you build a comprehensive plan toward the accumulation and management of wealth for your future. Planning and implementation as early as you can is the key. An expert should also be able to advise you on the use and management of any deferred pension schemes you have collected along the way. He/ she will also help you restructure your affairs to incorporate the combination and plan your future financial independence, or retirement at your planned 'slow down' date.

The sooner you seek advice on your private-pension plan the better

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If you have ever worked in the West you have very likely been part of a private-pension



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

My thoughts: I understand we all go through different stages of life and so do our insurance needs. Besides work, we need to consider: Mandatory insurances required by HK Government: 1. Domestic Helper insurance (eg ING) for all helpers including those living at the Marina 2. Office Package Employee Compensation 3. Home owner insurance and public liability 4. Houseboat cover (eg ING, Generali) and public liability 5. Home renters 6. Medical insurance (individual or group) including high-end expat medical covers such as IHI, A+, AETNA and BUPA 7. Life insurance (eg Trans-America, Sunlife) 8. Automobile coverage Optional insurances: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Travel insurance Accident Education and saving plans Term life for breadwinner And many more‌.

My offer: I can do a comparison shop for you free of charge, to ensure that you have made the right choice and check that you have the right product at the right price.

MONEYMATTERS

scheme there, even as an expat from another country.

Once you leave, the pension is deferred and you are only allowed to take the benefits at the scheme’s official retirement age, which could vary from 55 to 65. Even then pension payments will be paid out from the scheme and will be taxable at source.

But there are ways round this, as this example from the UK shows. Since 2006 it has been possible to transfer your UK private-pension scheme offshore to a Qualified Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS). These schemes offer a number of advantages over leaving the pension in the UK. First, you will never be required to convert your scheme to an annuity where you lose the ownership of the asset, because you swap this for an income. Instead you draw an income from the QROPS fund when you want to do so. QROPS pension payments are free of UK income tax and offer much broader investment flexibility. Through a QROPS you set up a fund which you own and can pass to your heirs, rather than offering a simple widow’s pension and then nothing. You also leave the residual sum free of any UK inheritance tax when you die.

The advantages offered to the expat, no matter what nationality, with these schemes are substantial. It is however essential that you take professional advice when looking at a QROPS transfer, as the rules are complex and interpretation can often lead to confusion.

Pension planning can appear daunting but the sooner you look into providing for your later years the better. Start your retirement planning today so that you can secure a decent standard of living for yourself and your dependents.

Gordon Franks is managing director of Platinum Financial Services Ltd (PFS), an independent Hong Kong-based investment and financial advisory firm catering to professional expatriates across Asia. PFS advises on all aspects of personal financial planning, including portfolio optimisation, retirement planning, savings, investments and inheritance-tax planning.

Email Gordon at gordonfranks@fsplatinum.com

TALKINGPOINTS

model chil

Photos by Raya www.rayaphotographer.com

Mary Singer tags along at a fashion shoot exclusively for the winners of a recent Around DB competition – and finds out what’s involved

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ldren

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t h a n, A m e l i a , A n n a , L i l y, D a i sy a n d K a t y we r e t h e l u c k y youngsters picked to model the designs on offer from Prince and Princess, the DB North Plaza boutique specialising in children’swear and accessories. As Around DB competition winners, these kids not only got to pose with the clothes, but were invited to take their pick from the shop afterwards. And judging by the smiles all round for a group shot, they were pleased with the deal.

“He’s the biggest ham,” said mother Nina Kong of her son Ethan, aged two-and-a-half, who was dressed in khaki pants, a Batman t-shirt and a unique hat with faux goggles.

“It wasn’t hard to get Ethan out of his Lightning McQueen t-shirt when he saw Batman,” Nina added.

Lily, three-and-a-half, looked adorable in a cream-coloured dress with lace skirt, champagne satin ribbon round a dropped waist, and a strand of pearls sewn on at the neckline. “That’s her,” said mum Candice Rink. “She loves dresses and shoes. She’s such a girly girl.”

Five-year-old Amelia was brought to the shoot by her aunt, Zoe Davies, who had entered her in the competition. She looked gorgeous in a dark-blue denim sundress and soon learned to pose in a way that best showed off the dress’s unique design; backless, but with a cape of sorts. Amelia offered the photographer an over-the-shoulder pose that got applause from everyone in the studio.

Anna, also five, is a dance student of Miss Melissa at Island Dance and was therefore used to the costumechange and hair-and-makeup session. She wore her hair in braids which nicely suited the bohemian-style one-piece outfit, comprised of harem-style leggings, rouched bodice and spaghetti straps. “We don’t do jeans,” said her mum Kanella Vogiadjis. “She’s a skirts and dresses girl.”

Raya was the internationally regarded photographer chosen to do this shoot. She’s a high-fashion photographer who is at home among the studios of Paris and New York, having spent the last 10 years working with prestigious magazines such as Harpers Bazaar, ELLE, Dansk, and luxury brands like Cartier and Thierry Mugler. But for the last year-anda-half, Raya has been based out of Discovery Bay. She’s a frequent flyer though. “I am still busy… my work is creative, it takes me all over,” she says.

Have your kids got what it takes?

Ethan, Amelia, Lily, Anna, Daisy and Katy posing in outfits from DB’s Prince and Princess

Modelling – and fashion photography – is indeed one of those lucky-sounding professions that can offer opportunities far removed from the mundane office job.

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TALKINGPOINTS

Ethan, the ham, age two-and-a-half

Even young people see it as exciting, as a possible dream career. But there’s more to modelling than the glamorous photos. One mother of two busy pre-teen models here in Hong Kong, Jane Ritchie (not her real name) has this to say.

“It’s a lot of work. My girls know that now. They don’t see it as fun anymore, just a job, though it is something they take pride in. A three-hour photoshoot can involve dozens of clothing changes, and the constant fiddling with hair and makeup can be very tedious.”

Since Jane’s two daughters began modelling through a Hong Kong-based agency three years ago, their images have appeared in the catalogues and websites of several Chinese and international children’s clothing manufacturers, been on display in the windows of the Prince’s Building, and even on the website of a Hong Kong language school.

One of the girls has been especially busy in recent months, having been called back three times by a company for successive seasonal catalogue shoots. “I was told that they liked her personality,” explains Jane. “She appeared to be having fun in front of the camera, and I know she was. It makes everyone’s job easy – no one wants to stay around at work longer than they have to. When I saw video footage of the shoot with the boy modelling with her, I could see how much work it was for them both. They must have been tired,

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June 2012

Gorgeously girlie Lily, age three-and-a-half

but they kept on smiling and having fun, taking direction, moving around… anything but standing still.”

How about the agent-client relationship?

There are several modelling agencies in Hong Kong that take on children. Normally this means doing a photoshoot and having the photos posted online, with basic information such as height, weight, eye colour and hair colour, then biding your time.

Jane makes a point of having her helper go with her children to shoots, so as not to be a distraction. “I don’t want them looking at me,” she says. “But I have learned to make sure I know all the details from the agent. Once I was told that the studio was small and so the helper would have to wait elsewhere but I refused and the client backed down. I have refused jobs that I thought were inappropriate [dancing in a shopping mall]. I have also refused requests for fittings – if the kids have already tried on the clothes – unless the client is willing to pay for my child’s time.”

Once the work is done, the financial reward can be a confidence booster, but seeing one’s face on a 10-foot poster, or one’s image ‘photoshopped’ in a way that makes it look as big as Big Ben, may take some getting used to. “I

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TALKINGPOINTS

have talked to my kids about the concept of professionalism; it means doing the job as required without complaint, and accepting the fact that it is not really about the model at all.

They are part of a process and part of a team,” says Jane.

“So far, both my girls are enjoying the creative experience, as well as meeting kind and creative people like makeup artists and photographers. But I have always told them that when they want to stop, just say the word.”

Practical matters

Amelia, the natural, age five

• Reputable agents won’t ask for money for a portfolio shoot, unless you want to buy some of the photos for yourself • An agent who finds work for your child will take around 20% of the earnings • Modelling fees vary depending on the nature of the job, but should not be lower than HK$600 per hour with a two-hour minimum • If it's a full-day shoot, the client should offer breaks (bring your own refreshments) and a meal • Don’t be tempted to freelance if the client asks for your contact information for another shoot later on; agents don’t like it, obviously, and they will remove your child from their roster

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Discovery Bay Property Agents & Boat Brokers

ESCAPES

The new-breed Seychelles’ resorts, like Fregate Island Private, are all about preserving the natural environment

Photos by Catharine Nicol

paradise

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ESCAPES

A thousand miles from civilization, in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles was once thought to be the original Eden. Catharine Nicol explores a modern-day garden of earthly delights

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’m draped over a weather-softened string hammock, dappled light sweeping across my eyelids, the sound of the waves a dozen metres away. When I open my eyes, between the pale sand and the palm stretching above me is a brazen-blue sky merging into the brilliant turquoise of the Indian Ocean.

There’s no one here but me at Anse Maquereau on Fregate Island Private, and the ‘do not disturb’ sign at the top of the stairs means there won’t be. In fact, there’s nothing that doesn’t exude an intense natural beauty prompting a feeling of absolute tangible bliss. I’m absorbing this energy, storing it up, ready to pull it out of my memory during monochrome moments back home.

Private-island life The Seychelles doesn’t have to be a big-ticket holiday, but it usually is. While there are places to stay on Mahe, the main island of the archipelago of 115, which cover pretty much every budget, it is the private-island resorts that provide that perfect beach holiday our imaginations dream up. Think villas with extensive terraces for late breakfasts and night-time star- and electric storm-gazing; grassy paths leading to soft sand and the clear, warm ocean; and hikes up through the interior rainforest to rocky outlooks with panoramic views. Add local cuisine in all its forms and flavours, and the laissez-faire relaxation of an island existence.

The Seychelles sounds idyllic, and I can honestly say that it really is. You can follow in the footsteps of British royals Kate and Will, who hid away on North Island for their honeymoon in the company of charming staff, friendly giant tortoises, local Takamaka rum cocktails at Sunset Bar and picture-perfect villas. Or put yourself in the capable hands of the colonially dressed private butlers on Fregate Island Private, where environmentalists take you on island walks and lizards share your afternoon tea. There’s Cousine

Island where it’s all about the birds, Hawksbill and Green Turtles being kind enough to share their island with you, rather than the other way around; or perhaps you’d prefer super-secluded Desroches Island Resort, 230 kilometres south of Mahe and just 4 degrees south of the equator...

If you are frazzled enough, and only a wannabe A-type, living the private-island life for a week may be all you need.

What you get is maximum luxury in an all-natural setting.

But what makes the Seychelles the kind of place you can return to again and again is the culture.

Cultural mixology Back in the 15th century, Arabs were the first to step foot on the Seychelles, closely followed by explorer Vasco da Gama, then merchant and slave ships stocking up on supplies and, of course, the pirates that accompanied them. The French ruled the archipelago in the 18th century, then the British, and when Britain abolished slavery in 1835 most of the inhabitants, from Africa, Madagascar, India and Mauritius were suddenly ‘liberated’. The Seychelles, by then an official British colony, gained independence in 1976.

You can feel the mix of cultures throughout the Seychelles.

The language, Creole, is a variant of French; the Victorian clock tower on Mahe is a mini Vauxhall Clock Tower from London and central focal point. The Seychellois look like they represent every culture in the world and their cuisine does too: tuna and king fish are staple, grilled or steamed with ginger and chillies. You will enjoy Indian-influenced curries, plenty of coconut milk- and lemongrass-based recipes, and rice with every meal.

Mahe’s mostly tranquil capital, Victoria, is made up of colourful homes set higgledy-piggledy along the streets, with strings of stalls and shops exuding practicality rather than sophistication, save for a few art galleries. Walk past a school and the kids will compete in jumping up and down, 

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An unspoilt coastline offers up deserted beaches

waving for your attention. Stroll the botanical gardens, or buy spices – the Seychelles is known for cinnamon and vanilla – at the bustling fish, vegetable and fruit market.

Long before sunset, pop into Creole hotspot The Pirate’s Arms and watch the world idle by as you sip a Seybrew, the local beer.

The rest of the island, with 65 beaches, is just as charming.

Stop in for lunch at the Marie Antoinette, where the same seven dishes have been delighting travellers for 30 years.

Relax over a sundowner or three at Bliss, and soak up the rum cocktails with a bat curry (no joke) at the Four Seasons.

Ultimate relaxation Praslin Island is even sleepier, but famous, or perhaps infamous, for the giant nut that is shaped like a woman’s derriere. You can walk within the forest in the UNESCOprotected Vallèe de Mai, where the coco de mer grow, to get a glimpse of them in their natural habitat.

La Digue is sleepier still, loved for its tiny town, through which you cycle to reach the granite boulder-strewn beaches. My lovely guide Noella shook her head when I described Victoria as quiet. To people from the rest of the

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Praslin Island is known for its anatomically shaped coco de mer



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ESCAPES

world Mahe is slow. But to people on La Digue and Praslin, going to Mahe is too stressful.

Also taking advantage of the island life is British painter Michael Adams MBE, who has lived in the Seychelles for nearly 40 years. He looks at the sensory overload of sunshine-saturated colours – the seductive turquoise of the sea sparkling with white seahorses and diamond flashes of light; the rich reds and pinks of bougainvillea and other blossoms – and transforms them onto paper. Add to this palette the fresh shades of green forest reaching up to the islands’ natural skylines, and the brilliant patterns and hues of Seychellois clothes. A visit to his gallery on Mahe may well be one of the highlights of your trip.

Hearing from Michael about his Seychellois life puts city living into harsh perspective. It makes you wonder: why live surrounded by buildings? Why live somewhere with such a demanding work ethic? I resolve to return to the Seychelles for longer next time. Until then I’ll just beam myself into that turquoise world when I need to. I’ll feel my pulse slow, my skin warm as if under the sun, the colours and waves of the ocean infuse me with energy. It’s been a while since my visit and I can still feel that bliss, the enduring legacy of the Seychelles.

When to go The Seychelles has a wonderful climate most of the year, although January can often be wet. May to September is the most popular time to visit

How to get there Air Seychelles flies from Singapore, taking approximately seven hours, www.airseychelles.com

Where to stay • North Island, www.north-island.com • Fregate Island Private, www.fregate.com • Cousine Island, www.cousineisland.com • Desroches Island Resort, www.desroches-island.com • Bliss Hotel, www.bliss-hill.net • Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, www.fourseasons.com/seychelles

Who to travel with Select-Seychelles, www.selectseychelles.com

ACTION

geocaching – Photos by Intrepid Family X

your entrée Intrepid Family X digs up the secrets of a little-known outdoor sport that is catching on globally – and finds it’s going on right under our noses here in Discovery Bay!

Junior members of Intrepid Family X geocaching in DB (as this is a secret society, names cannot be disclosed)

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t’s a little bit orienteering, a little bit treasure hunt – and a whole lot of fun! For Intrepid Family X, it has proven to be a great way to motivate the younger members who don’t want to take that hike to Mui Wo and beyond with Mum and Dad for the umpteenth time. For you Alphamales and females, it could be a way to take the boredom out of your training run. It’s also a chance to feel like Tom Cruise or Angelina Jolie, if you want to take it further and act the part. Geocaching can do all that!

The secret society Geocachers have a forum. They go online to register their caches for others to find, and they also chronicle their own adventures and offer advice. Judging by the forum posts, geocachers are eloquent people. The forum is free to read, but if you want to hide caches and make your own posts, you need to become a member.

A cache discovered by Intrepid Family X in DB

Geocaching.com is a popular forum, with several caches in Discovery Bay listed, and active cachers posting regularly.

Caches are registered of course, and their coordinates entered, so that others can find them using GPS (Global Positioning System) devices. Sometimes there are posts that caches have gone missing, in which case the geocacher who set it up in the first place will do some owner maintenance – returning to it to see if it has been moved slightly or has disappeared altogether.

As well-hidden caches can stay in place for years, the etiquette is for geocachers to replace the caches exactly where they have been found. As for interlopers who come across caches serendipitously, we kindly ask that you respect the laws of the secret society and replace the geocache with care.

The gear As sports go, geocaching lets your wallet off lightly. All you really need are sturdy walking shoes and a pen or pencil, so that you can write your member name and a message when you find a cache. You also need a computer of sorts, so that you can access the forum and find out where caches are placed. In some cases, geocachers leave ‘hints’ in the form of cryptic comments, descriptions of the cache, or even close-up photos, in addition to their encouraging words.

Intrepid Family X, who has found four caches since it joined the secret society officially on the last day of 2011, found its most recent cache by printing out a forum hint – a photo of a rock pile. But this was only because Intrepid Family X (Member B) had accidently left his/ her iPhone with a friend. Which is to say that, really, half the fun is in finding a cache with the help of a GPS-enabled device. You can buy a dedicated device or use your iPhone. You might want a compass, too. And don’t forget hat, sunscreen, water, and the like.

It’s like orienteering to find hidden treasure

The lingo Now you know what geocaching actually is, and have checked the definition of cache (a collection of items of the same type stored in a hidden or inaccessible place), there’s not much to the lingo. Micro (or microcache): a small cache container. Nano (or nanocache): a super-small cache container. Muggle (or Muggler): a non-geocacher.

The cache Geocaches can come in all shapes and sizes, and don’t need to cost a lot. Some caches come in the form of Tupperware containers. Others, such as nanos, are specialty items. They are minute, magnetised for easy placement and retrieval, and can be purchased online. Intrepid Family X was given a tin can full of cookies for Christmas (since eaten) and the tin will be reused as a geocaching capsule in the future.

What you put in a cache is up to you. If your cache is small, you may need help. Geocaching.com offers a minisized instruction document for download. But if you opt for the canister or Tupperware route then there’s room for all sorts of goodies, which you are welcome to add to, or exchange. In one Discovery Bay-area cache, Intrepid Family X (Member D) swapped a little rubber duck – which he/ she had optimistically brought for the occasion – for

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ACTION

a small, royal-blue carabiner. (The Shrek doll remained in the cache.)

You can also buy ‘geocoins’ with serial numbers, which are meant to be taken and then deposited in another cache (ideally, on the other side of the planet), so diehard geocachers can track their whereabouts. Just call it geo-trainspotting. And don’t forget the requisite logbook and pencil.

“Finding a cache is like winning at something,” says Intrepid Family X (Member C). “It’s better than Bingo,” says Member D. Intrepid Family X could tell you more about this great sport – about how the foursome had tried for weeks in vain to find a geocache in their home DB village, one rated ‘easy’ on the forum, and which others had found quickly, though the cache had been declared ‘cleverly hidden’. They had gone to other DB villages, too, and had come up emptyhanded each time. For a while, Member B had come to the conclusion that geocaching was a stunt, or that geocaches were being removed. But then one day, Intrepid Family X (Member C) found something on his/ her first try. It was a nano. He/ she unscrewed the pellet and gingerly pulled out a tiny scroll of paper. The family’s first cache had finally been found. Member B said it was reminiscent of the inside

of his/ her Tibetan prayer wheel – but that would be telling.

If you join the secret society, just mind your manners – and stay clear of Muggles.

You can buy minute, magnetised nanocaches online

Websites worth a look • www.geocaching.com • www.geocaching-u.com

Savills (Hong Kong) Limited Rm 605, Block A, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay, Lautau Island

2987 1919

residential.savillsproperty.com

EA Licence: C-002450

sole agent

sole agent

sole agent

sole agent

SEABEE LANE

GREENWOOD COURT

LA SERENE

CRESTMONT VILLA

HK$18.5M/HK$68,000

HK$64,000

HK$47,000

HK$12.95M/HK$42,000

Townhouse, 3 bedrooms plus study, nice decoration, private garden & roof.  1,642 sq ft

Combined with 5 bedrooms, excellent decoration, open kitchen, sea view.  2,087 sq ft

sole agent

Spacious duplex apartment, wide terrace, commanding sea view.  1,675 sq ft

sole agent

3 bedrooms plus maid’s room, tile floorings, landscaped garden.  1,268 sq ft

sole agent

sole agent

CRESTLINE MANSION

SIENA TWO

CRESTMONT VILLA

GREENDALE COURT

HK$36,000

HK$30M

HK$8.6M

HK$4.28M

SIENA TWO

SIENA ONE

SEAHORSE LANE

GRACEFUL MANSION

HK$48,000

HK$60,000

HK$55,000

HK$4.6M/HK$20,000

Combined unit, 3 bedrooms with one en suite and maid’s room, open view.  1,416 sq ft

Semi-detached house, superb layout, private garden terrace & garage.  2,180 sq ft

3 bedrooms plus laundry, facing beach and nice sea view, quiet surroundings.  1,298 sq ft

Sale with tenancy, renovated 3 bedrooms, high yield return.  865 sq ft

lead agent

4 bedrooms plus store room, spacious living & dining, terrace with open view.  1,570 sq ft

3 bedrooms, totally upgraded, new kitchen & bathroom, big garden.  1,432 sq ft

3 bedrooms plus study room and maid’s room, garden & yard, sea view, close to pier.  1,357 sq ft

High floor, 2 bedrooms plus store room, close to tunnel.  933 sq ft

Savills (Hong Kong) Limited. Rm 605, Block A, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island. Subject to contract and availability (V/12).

Selling or leasing this spring? Talk to Savills AroundDB-JUNE.indd 1

5/11/2012 11:39:41 AM

in to Summer at Sports World Your local Sport Store for all your swimming apparel and accessories DISCOVERY BAY Shop 1- 05 B, North Plaza 2914 1323 CENTRAL 5/F Wong Chung Ming Comm Bldg 14-16 Wyndham Street, Central T: 2525 8810 info@sportsworld.hk www.sportsworld.hk

GOGGLES SWIM WEAR CAPS TRIATHLON GEAR GOGGLES GOGGLES SWIM WEAR CAPS TRIATHLON GEAR GOGGLES GOGGLES SWIM WEAR CAPS TRIATHLON GEAR GOGGLES GOGGLES SWIM WEAR CAPS TRIATHLON GEAR GOGGLES GOGGLES SWIM WEAR CAPS

HK Boats and Homes Ltd.

Broker lives in DB Marina and exclusively focuses on liveaboards.

Largest portfolio of vessels in Discovery Bay from 1300 sq. ft starting from HK$4M, rentals from HK$40,000. We have the connections, local knowledge and coverage to offer you the very best possible brokerage services.

For full listing, contact Michele on 6055 0143 or email michelejcameron@msn.com If you are thinking of selling or letting your VESSEL now or in the future, we would be delighted to give you a free, no obligation market appraisal.

C-031541

Designs For Life Skagerak Lido Chair

Pedrali Plus

Skagerak Director Chair

Italesse Vinocchio Decanter

Maruni Lightwood Chair

STYLE

the entertaining

home

Gamers need plenty of room to manoeuvre in front of their monster TVs

We’re consuming entertainment at home in record numbers.

Here’s how to make the most of it, from Elizabeth Kerr

R

emember all those years ago – 2009 to be precise – when Avatar ‘revolutionised’ the cinemagoing experience? Its next step was quickly transforming 3D technology into a gimmick that infuriated consumers for the resulting studio and exhibitor price gouging. But there has been bigger news than Avatar’s US$2.8 billion worldwide gross. Upon its release, Activision’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (CoD) sold US$1 billion worth of games in just 16 days. It took Avatar’s 17 to cross that threshold. The argument can be made that a video game costs four times a movie ticket, but geeky viewers see movies like James Cameron’s ground-breaker four times. There are no repeat buys for CoD. The point is not who’s selling more merchandise but the idea that home entertainment, which comprises gaming, is an entrenched part of life. Gone are the days of clunky Beta VCRs and grainy rear-projection televisions. In 2012, it is easier than ever to have a truly cinematic experience at home that integrates gaming, TV, movies and music.

High definition 3D-TV units have been available for residential purposes for a few years (though the unwieldy glasses are still required), and very few aficionados with the space don’t have 5.1-channel surround sound to go with their new mp3/CD/USB-ready 3D Blu-ray player. And interestingly enough, turntables still haven’t vanished,

what with vinyl audio maintaining a cool factor stronger than ever.

Calling all couch potatoes It seems we want to stay at home too. “Almost every project requires a setup for a home-theatre system in the house,” says interior designer Rashida Hashim of Yaali Designs in Discovery Bay. “Together with a good surround-sound speaker system, clients are now keen on setting up a proper wi-fi networking system too.

This allows them to connect the devices in different rooms to the main system.” Users are increasingly consolidating their home entertainment, making the TV a multi-purpose monitor for internet access as well as old-fashioned broadcasts.

The traditional locus for viewing has been the living room; actually a step down from the recreation rooms of the 1970s, which could be primed for a makeover (bye-bye shag carpet and wood panelling). As Rashida sees it, “If you are lucky and can spare a room in your house as a media room then [designing for] it is not a very difficult task.”

A regular technician is fine for your circuitry, but professionalbias aside, Rashida believes a designer can lend a hand here too. “Good-quality wiring in the room is the key to

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STYLE

success,” she says. “Choose the right equipment and then ask the designer to help you with the right placement of everything, including the furniture.”

So you have a room. What do you put in it? Technology moves too quickly to be able to comfortably pinpoint the Next Big Thing, but if fantasy is acceptable, some hints can be culled from January’s Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show (CES) – the mother of all tech shows. Brand-specific glasses and a backlash made 3D TVs the biggest nonstarter of 2010. This year’s buzz was about Toshiba’s glasses-free set and other manufacturers rumoured to be readying ‘passive’ glasses that could be used with any model. But the biggest story was the arrival of IMAX-level 4K-resolution TV, with four times high-definition (HDTV) resolution. First out of the gate will be LG, with an 84-inch (!) behemoth boasting 3840 x 2160 (ultra-definition) resolution.

Loewe’s entertainment systems are ultra chic

Best buys If you’re interested in what you can actually purchase today (and what might fit through your front door), German electronics giant Loewe makes a complete homeentertainment range, with 3D TVs in its Home Cinema Set 5.1 with complementing MediaVision 3D. The TV has an integrated Blu-ray player, iPod/ iPhone interface, and boasts internet connectivity among other features. It goes without saying Loewe’s hardware is pretty easy on the eyes.

A more mainstream (read: less pricey) option comes from LG again. The other Korean tech titan’s newly updated 55inch OLED 3D unit (with passive glasses) should be rolling off factory floors in the middle of the year. It’s thinner and lighter than previous models (a 4-millimetre deep screen) and its picture quality is among industry leaders. For now, however, the existing 55LW6500 Cinema 3D will do the job nicely – assuming you want a 3D set. Both Loewe and LG (and every other manufacturer out there) still stock myriad regular old 2D HDTVs. Of course there’s more to home media than just a TV, but the boob tube remains the core component. Those monster TVs are like catnip to gamers, and can go a long way to boosting the gaming experience, but sadly no new game consoles are in the pipeline. Sony and Microsoft are rumoured to be readying the next generation of PlayStations and Xboxes for 2014; Nintendo is allegedly prepping to announce a successor to Wii at the upcoming E3 – the third arm of the geek-show holy trinity after CES and Comic-Con. So you may have to wait to play Call of Duty 117 on the entire wall in ear-shattering Dolby.

A final note of caution, however. If you buy great shoes that kill your feet, what’s the point? As Rashida notes, we

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A dedicated and high-tech media room

can be so infatuated with high-tech gear we forget about comfortable seating and the overall environment of the room. Just because you’re watching a cheesy medical series or playing an adventure game doesn’t make the room’s colour, light and texture less crucial than it is in the dining room. “Your room may be equipped with the most expensive technology,” she says, “but if the light, mood and the seating is not appropriate you cannot enjoy the whole experience of having a media room in the house.”

Find it Loewe Times Square, Causeway Bay 2777 8988, www.loewe.tv LG iSquare, Tsim Sha Tsui 2555 6088, www.lg.com Yaali Designs Shop 119 DB Plaza, Discovery Bay 3482 5785, www.yaalidesigns.com

HOTSTUFF

What's

new

around

Hong

Kong

c o m p i l e d b y A n d re w D e m b i n a

Family escape to

Italian June –

Sanya

a real treat

Planning a vacation or long weekend where you want star treatment for your little ones? At Ritz-Carlton Sanya, Yalong Bay, Hainan Island in China, a Petit VIP programme recently launched. Offering a host of activities for kids from around three to 11, some include parents, while others do not – allowing ma and pa a break. Petit VIP, a French company, tailor-makes family experiences at properties across the globe, and this is the first one in Asia. Activities are designed to be both fun and educational. Some activities are chargeable but many sports and arts ones are free. Don’t miss the ‘secret garden’ – home to farmyard animals, Chinese guinea pigs, squirrels and turtles. The resort itself is an excellent beach bolthole with three swimming pools and an understated luxe factor throughout. Check it out at www.ritzcarlton.com.

During the Italy 2012: Quality & Lifestyle festival – an annual event promoted by the Italian Chamber of Commerce, running through June – some of the best Italian restaurants in town are offering special regional menus under the banner A Tavola! (Come to the table!). For every HK$250 spent Master chefs chosen at participating restaurants, you to participate can enter a competition to win a return flight to Italy with four nights stay in Verona for two. The restaurants taking part are 208, Abruzzo, Angelini, Assaggio, Campania, Cova, DiVino, Domani, Gaia, Goccia, Isola, Joia, The Mistral, Osteria, La Piola, Spasso, Va Bene and Zeffirino. Find out more about this, other food promotions in more casual restaurants and cultural events at www.icc.org.hk.

All-Japanese

sustainable skewers A ritzy luxury getaway

Dedicated fun for kids

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June 2012

Bored of eating the same old? Sustainable crocodile and sturgeon are newly on the menu of a small Japanese grill and bar, just off Lan Kwai Fong. At cosy Robata Zawazawa, set around an open showTry a savoury stick kitchen, the main listings at Robata Zawazawa are Japanese robatayaki (charcoal-grill) skewers.

Besides his marinated meat, seafood and vegetable skewers, chef Daisuke Nakano also prepares seasonal dishes like those served at popular Japanese izakaya (barcum-restaurant) establishments. Sturgeon, the traditional source of caviar, flakes a little like salmon. Crocodile, a white meat often eaten in Australia and South Africa, is surprisingly delicately flavoured. Call the restaurant on 2536 9898.

HOTSTUFF

Requiem for

the earth Minamata: A Requiem, a home-grown music-theatre production raises questions about the physical, moral and spiritual costs of environmental pollution.

Composer and musician Kung Chi Sing and new media artist Kingsley A taster from the production Ng collaborate on this company’s last performance production that takes as a historical starting point the discovery in the 1950s of the disastrous effects of toxic pollution on the people of the fishing villages of Minamata, Japan, many of whom were slowly poisoned by mercury in the water. Minamata: A Requiem shows on June 15 and 16 at the Multi-Media Theatre, HKICC Lee Shau Kee School of Creativity in Kowloon. For tickets, go to www.urbtix.hk.

Day-long

rugby fest

Mils Muliaina

Indie festival for

movie buffs A local avant-garde film festival is set to roll for its second year this month. The Pineapple Underground Film Festival (PUFF) is showing six categories of flicks: feature film, nobudget feature, short film, animation spotlight, feature documentary, and sound and visual performance. Many of them are free to watch. The venues are EXPERIMENTA and The Fringe Club both in Central, and Hidden Agenda in Kowloon – all champions of contemporary arts. The films at The Fringe – award-winning UK feature Patient 17 and PlayGirls from Japan – are the two screenings that require ticket purchases. Find more information at hkpuff.com.

Look no further for the avant garde

John Smit

A top-tier rugby tournament takes place on Saturday June 9 at the Hong Kong Stadium. There’ll be minirugby and veterans’ tournaments but the centrepiece of the day is The Chartis Cup. English Premiership rugby champion team the Saracens will play its Asian rugby debut against a star-studded BGC APBs team – which will feature the best of rugby talent from Asia Pacific, including top players from New Zealand and Fiji.

Don’t miss seeing Mils Muliaina, who has played 100 times for the All Blacks and was a World Cup winner last year. The Saracens’ multi-national squad from England, Wales, South Africa and Italy, boasts South Africa’s 2007 World cup winning captain John Smit, and former England captain Steve Borthwick. Visit www.chartiscup.com for more details.

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DBFACES

COMPETITION

C

O

M

M

U

N

I

T

Y

S

N

A

P

If you'd like us to consider your photos for DB Faces, email them to info@arounddb.com (subject line: DB Faces).

Around DB accepts no liability relating to the photos sent

Great prizes from Uncle Russ!

A

Y

B

C

Congratulations to last month’s winner Paige Bailey who correctly identified picture C featured on page 9 of our May issue. Please contact our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.

our challenge, this month, is to identify which of the three photos above is the exact copy of a photograph featured elsewhere in this issue of Around DB. You need to list the page number the photo appears on, as well as which of the three pictures is the exact copy. The first person to send us the correct answer will win a complimentary drink at Uncle Russ in DB Plaza every day for a week.

Email your answer to info@arounddb.com (subject line: Uncle Russ competition). Good luck!

S

Professional Hairdresser and Makeup artist,with international experience, offers home visit services for your convenience!

Fluent in German, French and English!

• Haircut & Style for women, men and children • Colour service & Highlights • Styles and Up styles • Full Make Up and /or basic lessons and consultations

KATHLEEN KIPPER

www.kathleenkipper.weebly.com | kath_kipper79@hotmail.com | +852 9708 6959

More than 50 years international experience supporting businesses.

• Accounting & Taxation • Business & Operation Consulting • China Trade Advisory • Information Technology Implementation • Company Formation & Secretarial • Pre-Initial Public Offering Advisory & Corporate Finance • Financial Planning • Immigration (Visas & Capital Investment Entrant Scheme Application) For a free consultation, please contact Martha Tang or Alice Chung Suite 1801, 18th Floor New Victory House 93-103 Wing Lok Street Hong Kong

Tel: Fax: Email: Website:

(852) 2851 8081 (852) 3590 9901 info@alcamat.com www.alcamat.com

LANTAU FACES

Photos by Zoe Lyle www.zoelylephotography.com

If you’d like us to consider your photos for Lantau Faces, please email them to info@arounddb.com (subject line: Lantau Faces).

Around DB accepts no liability relating to the photos sent

LANTAU NUMBERS HEALTH & WELL-BEING

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

9473 3976 9708 0187 6770 1462 2984 0990

HOME & REPAIRS

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

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 2819 6823 9373 0792 2984 0587

HOTELS

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort

2984 7225 6810 0111

LEARNING CENTRES

Buddhist Fat Ho College Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Little Owls Kindergarten Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten

2985 5150 2984 0069 2984 0302 2984 0006 3689 6709

PROPERTY AGENCIES

Easy Reach Real Estate Home Solutions Proper Trip Real Estate

2984 0618 3483 5003 2984 1666

RESTAURANTS & BARS

Families Maternity Babies Events Capturing special moments in a natural, warm and casual manner.

Stunning portraits to capture the spirit and energy in everyone. zlyle@me.com | www.zoelylephotography.com | +852 9834 5498

Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bombay Café Casa Brasil Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar High Tide Restaurant La Pizzeria Pui O Delicious Rome Restaurant Sun Fat Restaurant Tak Chai Kee Seafood The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep

2984 0222 2984 1847 2984 7471 2984 0498 2984 9720 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 2984 2298 2984 7982 2984 0418 2984 1265 2983 8931 2980 2582 9160 5986 2980 2699

RETAIL

Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Bizzie Lizzie’s (childrens clothes and toys) Friendly Bike Shop Park ‘N’ Shop Red Hall Chinese Antiques Renge House (clothes & accessories) The Red Lantern Wellcome

2134 1234 2984 2227 2984 2278 2984 0249 2988 1368 2406 8122 2987 0099 2984 7884

SERVICES & OTHERS

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

2984 1410 9662 1747 2984 0060 9025 3949 9062 0148 6351 8923 9834 5498

TRANSPORTATION

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

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848 9036 3132

THE RED LANTERN Genuine antiques, small pieces of delightful furniture from the late Ching Dynasty.

Feijoada, Seafood Muqueca, Cheese Bread and many more..

Private Bookings - Kit for parties - Takeaway - Catering Shop A, G / F, Silver Centre Building, Mui Wo - Lantau Island Open: Monday to Friday

2 pm to 10:30 pm

Saturday and Sunday 12 pm to 10:30 pm

Tel: 2984 7471

casabrasil.hk @ gmail.com

4 minutes' walk from the ferry in Mui Wo in the direction of the Silvermine Beach Hotel.

Free Delivery to DB Tel: 2987 0099 Fax: 2980 4833 glandam@netvigator.com

COMMUNITY DBEES ICE HOCKEY We are committed to the development of youth ice hockey in Hong Kong. From children age 5 & up. Visit www.dbeeshockey.com DB ANGELS FOOTBALL CLUB The first girls-only football club in DB. For more information visit www.dbangelsfc.hk DB PIRATES RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB We offer Under 6 through senior team rugby. To join visit www.dbpirates.com DB TIGERS BASEBALL CLUB Join us for an Exhibition Game on June 9 at 4.30pm. For children age 5 to 13.

Visit www.dbtigers.com

EMPLOYMENT ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Excellent MS & organisational skills required. Full-time position (negotiable but preferred), based in DB North Plaza.

Please send your resume to jannette.mak@amttraining.com L’ECOLE FRANCAISE DE DISCOVERY LTD We are looking for a native French-speaking Speech Therapist (Orthophoniste). For more information, contact 6538 1578, info@ecole-discovery.com LA PETITE ENFANCE We are looking for a certified French-qualified teacher (Professeur des Ecoles) to work at our kindergarten in DB North Plaza as of September 2012. For more information, contact 6710 0391, drh@la-petite-enfance.com

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT- TERM THERAPY

Quit smoking quickly.

Post-divorce coaching.

Resolve: • Fear of flying/ public speaking • Overeating • Couples’ conflicts • Career & command-training stress • Anger management • Phobias • Nail biting • Insomnia Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk

NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO?  Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents  Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients  English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counselors Call 2523 8979 Now for Appointment http://www.resourcecounselling.org Serving the community over 35 years A Member Agency of the Community Chest

70

June 2012

HEALTH & WELL-BEING THE SKIN THERAPY CENTRE IN DB

Fully qualified, UK-trained beauty therapist with over 16-years’ experience.

• C.A.C.I. – the new CACI ultimate, incorp MICRO-DERMABRASION, L.E.D LIGHT THERAPY, to treat lines & wrinkles plus facial toning using microcurrent exclusive to C.A.C.I • FACIALS – Nobel-prize winning SKEYNDOR stem plant system cell facials & homecare, DERMATOLOGICA products & Dr Murad VIT C, Glycolic peels & anti-aging treats GUINOT - HYDRADERMIE with Lifting Plus treatment • AROMATHERAPY - using 100%-certified organic oils • BODY MASSAGE / BODY SCRUBS/ WRAPS for slimming & detoxifying • REFLEXOLOGY • WAXING & EYELASH TINTING • COLOUR ME BEAUTIFUL make-over & colour analysis • GIFT VOUCHERS Call Gillian on 9604 6920, 2987 0764

HOME & REPAIRS BIOCYCLE (HK) LTD

Safe & Ecological Pest & Termite Management. ISO14001 & ISO9001 Certified. Unique biocide, BioKill®, ‘poison’ label exemption.

Contact 3575 2575, info@biocycle.hk or visit www.biocycle.hk

HOME & REPAIRS FTC LOGISTICS

• Local & international • Moving & storage • World-class service • Competitive rates Call 2814 1658, or visit www.ftc.hk

EXPERT TRANSPORT & RELOCATIONS MOVER

For local & international moves.

Collection, storage & disposal.

All sorts of handyman work: painting & tiling, installation of TVs, pictures, fans etc. All-in-one professional service at attractive rates. Call 2566 4799, or visit www.expertmover.hk

NEED STORAGE?

• Low-cost storage • For a box to a whole house • Humidity controlled From HK$550/month.

We collect & deliver.

Call 2578 1865 or visit www.expertmover.hk

AKASH MOVERS

For all your moving needs, including packing materials & full packing & moving services. Plus small deliveries & handyman services.

Payment upon complete satisfaction.

Best move - Best rates.

Call 2421 8088 or visit www.akash.hk

KIDS

KIDS

MIDGET GEMS RENTAL

MIDGET GEMS AUGUST/ SEPTEMBER ENROLMENT

Have an idea for a children’s business? We have a clubroom available for rent, afternoon time slots.

Please call Koren on 9176 2990

MIDGET GEMS KIDS’ CLUB

Established playgroup for children from 2 to 4 years.

Morning sessions with afternoons coming soon.

A wonderful environment where children learn through play with our qualified & experienced teachers.

Also offering Bilingual Gems, afternoon sessions in German & Mandarin.

Please contact 2987 0272, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com

We are enroling now for the next school year. Please have a look at our website & arrange a visit to meet our wonderful team! Email info@midgetgemskidsclub.com or log onto www.midgetgemskidsclub.com

LITTLE ADVENTURES

July & August only.

For kids age 8 to 30 months.

• Monday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons, 2pm-4.30pm • Drop-in sessions with ageappropriate toys & books • Parent/ helper must attend with child • Location: The Greens Contact sarah@earlyadventures.net

EARLY ADVENTURES SUMMER PROGRAMME

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play.

Activities to stimulate all areas of development.

Come & look at our facilities.

Classes for kids from 20 months to 4 years.

Morning & afternoon sessions.

Call 9511 2107 or visit www.earlyadventures.net

July 3 to August 31, for kids age 2 to 4 years. Weekly themes, sessions offered five days a week Please email sarah@earlyadventures.net

EARLY ADVENTURES PARTY TIME!

Need a venue for a party? Ideal playgroup environment with toys & activities. For further information, please call 9511 2107

New FRENCH cooking programme designed for domestic helpers available this summer.

French kindergarten located in DB North open for registrations for school year 2012-2013.

French summer camp with fun activities, games and workshops for littles ones designed and led by experienced professionals available from July 3 to August 31, 2012.

Everything they need to know about cooking you and your family great value meals with simple French recipes, making the most of your grocery budget, and respecting hygiene, safety and security rules.

For more information, please call 6710 0391 or email us at info@la-petite-enfance.com

Training will be in English.

For more information, please call 6538 1578 or e-mail us at info@ecole-discovery.com

This year, Something New for your kids to spend time on during the holiday.

Learn How To: 1. Identify the problems 2. Solve the problems 3. Handling stress

4. Set Goals 5. Achieve these Goals 6. Build up their self esteem

Programme Designed by Our Specialist (Early Childhood Stage, MA in Education) Do you want your kids to learn something very important to their future?

Personal Professional Life Coaching Services • Summer Program 12 lessons • June 16 - August 30, 2012 • Age Group: 6 to 12 years old

For more details: Please call 9107 5655 or email to gracias8@hotmail.com

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME TEENS FOR CHRIST

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

June 2012

71

PROPERTY DB

PROPERTY DB

SHORT-TERM LET

DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS

STYLISH SHORT-TERM RENTAL

NEW SHORT- OR LONG-TERM RENTAL

Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony.

Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Brian on 9098 6951, brian@headlandhomes.com

Fully furnished, with cable TV, DVD, linens & towels provided.

Contact 9159 2476, sweet_castillo2001@yahoo.com

GREENDALE COURT RENTAL

Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525

LUXURY MODERN FLATS TO LET

Short- or medium-term rental at Siena 2. 600’ 1-bed flats with sea views, near the North Plaza, Club Siena & tunnel. Serviced & fully furnished with washer/ dryer, bed linen & kitchenware. Plus wi-fi, broadband, blue-ray & home theatre.

Contact 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com

LUXURIOUS 1-BED APARTMENT

Newly renovated, 550’ flat on a high floor with split-type air conditioning. Fully equipped with DVD & free wi-fi. Bedding & towels provided. Weekly cleaning available. Email dbaygreenish@gmail.com

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

Greenery Court, 1-bedroom flat with deluxe renovation. Modern & fully furnished with internet, 37’’ LCD TV & DVD. Contact Sandy on 9654 8862, sandylamdb@yahoo.com.hk

NICE SHORT-TERM RENTAL

Newly renovated studio flat with open kitchen, 5 minutes to pier. Fully furnished, with cable TV & broadband. Contact 2987 2468, dbshortlet@yahoo.com.hk

PROPERTY DB STUDIO FOR SHORT-TERM LET Comfortable, nicely decorated studio, close to DB Plaza & pier, with fully equipped kitchen. 37” TV, DVD, wi-fi, linens & towels provided. Contact 9190 7348, niceroom_db@yahoo.com.hk 2-BED APARTMENT FOR RENT Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished. Contact 9108 5525

PROPERTY OVERSEAS

AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY

FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED RENTAL

Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view.

Close to pier & DB Plaza.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

Everything you need to know about buying a property in Australia. Information on property markets, taxation, finance, migration & legal.

Free online at www.aussieproperty.com

SPANISH VILLA FOR SALE

CHERISH COURT TO LET

Fully furnished 2-bedroom, newly renovated flat. Tranquil with sea & Disneyland view, & wi-fi. Photos available. Contact Jacqueline at 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

20 minutes from Valencia airport. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Large living room/ dining room & kitchen plus garage. Mature terraced gardens with Roman-style pool. Good holiday rental returns: 240,000 euros. For more details & photos, email snr.cranmer@gmail.com

Advertise your business and get great results with Around DB SHORT-TERM 3-BED RENTAL

Fully furnished, 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom flat in Jovial Court. Linen & fluffy towels provided, baby items available. LCD TV, DVD, wi-fi, telephone, washer & dryer. Fabulous views. Non-smoking flat. Call 6905 3765 evenings & weekends or email jovialflat@gmail.com

FLAT FOR RENT, DB

Bright, fully furnished flat, sleeps 4.

Fully equipped kitchen, wi-fi & broadband, towels & linen. Minimum stay 1 month.

Email dbstay4@yahoo.com

RENOVATED MODERN EXECUTIVE FLAT FOR RENT

550’ 1-bed apartment. Quiet, on a high floor, with mountain view. Fully furnished with open-plan kitchen. Well-equipped with LCD TV, broadband, telephone & wi-fi. Contact 6680 2007, greenmountain123@gmail.com

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2987 0577

KIDS GEMS OCCASIONS

Looking for that perfect party venue for your little gem? A colourful, safe & fun environment with toys & dress-up clothes. We have an entertainer upon request. We also tidy up!

Please contact 9176 2990, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com

MIDGET GEMS KIDS CLUB SUMMER CAMP Enrol now for our fun-filled summer camp! Hurry as spaces go quickly!

• Ages 3 to 6 years • Weekly themed programmes • 9am-12pm Please email us for details at info@midgetgemskidsclub.com

PETS

SERVICES & OTHERS

TUITION & COURSES

AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS

CHINESE MANDARIN LESSONS

Need to lodge your Australian tax return? If you are an expat or collect rental from Australian property, you must lodge an annual return.

Let us do it for you here in Hong Kong. Contact Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, helen.wong@smats.net or visit www.smats.net

TRAVEL

FLIGHT CENTRE

We have opened a new store in SoHo, 49 Caine Road!

Speak to our travel experts to check out all the special offers and endless holiday possibilities!

Contact 2830 2866, enquiry@flightcentre.com.hk, or visit www.flightcentre.com.hk

QUO QUO CLUB DOG SERVICES

Grooming, boarding & behaviour classes. Responsible, patient & detail-conscious in a hygienic & relaxed environment.

Call Dave Chan, Associate Member of The Animal Care College, Berkshire, UK, on 9872 5439 or visit http://quoquoclub.com

DB Mandarin Room at Phase 1.

For Year 1 to 13 students: schedule on demand. Many groups of different levels to meet each student’s needs. Help with homework, revision, exams & more.

For adults: beginners, intermediate & advanced classes every Monday, Wednesday & Friday, 10-11am.

Please call 6071 9643 or visit http://tclearning.sinacool.com

MATHEMATICS (GCSE, AS, SAT, IB, GMAT, ETC.) & ENGLISH TUITION

Offered by a London University graduate (First-Class Honours).

Experienced in teaching adults, ESF & International School students.

Call 9121 0389

I DON’T CARE WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER!

YANGTZE GORGES WITH JASON WORDIE

Tour ‘Vinegar Joe” & the “Flying Tigers”. Six days.

Departs June 17, 2012.

(Licence 350343).

Call Concorde Travel on 2526 3391, or visit www.concorde-travel.com

Summer Course (Cantonese/ Mandarin) • Summer course for kids • Easy-to-learn Chinese (Cantonese or Mandarin) • 12 lessons • From June 15 to August 30 Please contact 3612 5387, gracias@chinesemandarinsite.com

2012 Summer Camp Jul 3rd – Aug 31st Activities in Mandarin Kung Fu Munchkins Story & Drama Mandarin Chef…and much more!!

Tel : 2480 3909 Venue: LG 01, Office Block One, North Plaza Email: db@mandarinformunchkins.com

CHINESE (MANDARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH

Personal Professional Tutoring Service.

• Curriculum: HSK, IB, GCSE, SAT • ESF & all international schools welcome • For Students Year 1 to13 (Children to adults; homework/ exam to business) • Chinese: Mother-tongue tutors from PRC www.chinesemandarinsite.com (Levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) • Mathematics: Tutors (UK B. Sc. Mathematics) • English: Native tutors (MA in Education, specialising in Early Childhood Stage) Contact 9107 5655, gracias8@hotmail.com

June 2012

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Your ultimate guide in DB

DBNUMBERS COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza BMSE, North Plaza Catholic Church (Trinity Chapel) DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Healthcare Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza

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

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre Marc James Design, North Plaza Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Season Art Kitchen Perfection Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre

LEARNING CENTRES 2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 0061 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2765 5700 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2987 1990 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428

LEARNING CENTRES

L’ecole Pierre Et Marie Curie

L’Ecole Francaise de Discovery Limited French classes, specialised and tutorial services Block One, LG6, DB North Plaza Tel: 6538 1578 Email: info@pmcuriehk.com

Prince & Princess

Kids Wear & Accessories Shop G13B, G/F., North Plaza Tel: 2947 9228 Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm www.prince-princess.com.hk

Kindergarten, French classes and tutorial services.

French kindergarten open for registration for school year 2012-13 Accepting registration for 2011-12 LG-05, 92 Siena Avenue, DB North Tel: 6710 0391 Email: info@la-petite-enfance.com

International Academy of Performing Arts Little Explorers

Discovery College www.actingantics.com Contact deborah@actingantics.com Tel: 6842 8092 / 8122 9475

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

rush yoga ∙ fitness ∙ swim G/F, G35, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay Tel +852 2526 0720 www.rush.com.hk Mon – Sun: 10:30am to 7:30pm

Sunwood by Design

Tel: 9327 0507 Email: littleexplorers@team-fear.com

Apron Strings

Hands-on classes specially tailored for children, teens & adults

Island Dance

Tel: 9735 5724 www.apronstrings.com.hk

Freestyle, Jazz, Ballet & Tap Tel: 2987 1571

International Bodyfit Swimwear Exercise and Yoga Wear Tel: 6626 5470 www.sunwood-by-design.com

Treat Boutique "Treat yourself, Treat your wallet"

US depatment store handbags, jewelry, ladies wear, men's wear and more...

Tel: 6163 3421 In Style Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic Start-rite shoes

2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098

DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven Convenience Store 7-Eleven Food Kiosk Fusion by PARKnSHOP GNC Mannings Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome

2987 4401 2914 1183 2987 7486 2987 9331 2987 1720 2987 4089 2947 9092

FINANCIAL SERVICES AlcaMat Financial & Accounting Services HSBC HSBC Expat Travelex Money Exchange, North Plaza Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd

2851 8081 2233 3000 2822 3927 2682 1210 2987 1851

www.islanddance.com.hk

Bayview House of Children

Early Childhood Educational Center Programmes from 18 months to 6 years old For details call Ramesha on 6114 2436 ramesha@bayview.hk

British Studio of Art Hong Kong

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Midget Gems Kid’s Club Established playgroup for children 2-4 years Tel: 2987 0272 info@ midgetgemskidsclub.com www.midgetgemskidsclub.com

ColourStorm Art Centre Playgroups, parties, art-jamming and art classes for all ages!

Tel: 2325 3999 Address: LG-10, Office Block One, 92 Siena Avenue, DB North Plaza. http://www.colourstormartcentre.com

Dumper Trucks & Daisies

Crawlers & Explorers - Wed afternoon Tots & Toddler’s - Tue & Thur morning, Mon & Thur afternoon Preparation Class - Mon, Wed & Fri morning Tel: 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com www.dumpertrucksanddaisies.com

DB’s largest & longest running playgroup Iin Porter 9151 5545 firstsecondfriends@yahoo.com www.firstfriendshk.com

HK School of Highland Dance Furniture, Wall paper, Interior Design and Home Furnishings Shop 119 DB Plaza Tel: +852 3482 5785 www.yaalidesigns.com, info@yaalidesigns.com

Call 2480 3909

New art studio in DB for 2 year-olds to adults www.bsoahk.com info@bsoahk.com Tel: 9132 5249 / 6170 2875

First Friends & Second Friends “Luxury that doesn’t cost the Earth” Tel. ( 852 ) 9770 4474 / 9779 9424 www.butterflydreams.com.hk

For kids 1 year and up www. mandarinformunchkins.com

HOME

Butterfly Dreams Luxury Bed Linens Ltd.

Mandarin for Munchkins®

Highland Dance classes now available in DB All ages welcome Teacher qualified by the SDTA Tel: 9123 0863 Email: highlanddancehk@gmail.com

Mountainview Montessori Run by Montessori trained teacher Come and Join the Fun! mountainview_montessori@hotmail.com

ColourStorm Art Centre, North Plaza DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) DB Garden House Montessori Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Montessori School DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Learning Centre HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Les Petits Lascars de DB SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten Treasure House

2325 3999 2914 2142 2987 7331 6114 2436 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2987 1201 2987 4338 9511 2107 2416 3088 2526 8892 2987 8608 2987 0813 2987 8143 2987 4217

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

2987 1373 2987 8494 2914 2378 3105 3588 2987 7111 2987 8898 2987 1777 2987 9372

DBNUMBERS SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

OTHER SERVICES

PetcoDB

Lantau Island Outrigging Canoe Club

Grooming & Pet Services Wth Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love Tel: 2914 0382 Email: info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com Amity Shoe Care Apple Travel Co Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

Training at Lantau Boat Club, Tai Pak beach www.liocc.com

2987 4538 2987 2626 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151

Movement Improvement Pilates, yoga, posture & fitness 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk

REAL-ESTATE AGENCIES

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

Lifestyle Homes Tel: 2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Centaline Property Agency Limited Century 21 Newcourt Realty EPS Property Consultants Ltd Headland Homes Kingsford DB Ltd Land Master Property Midland Realty

2987 8484 2987 9729 2987 2023 2987 2088 2987 6888 2987 6238 2987 2888

Sports World All your sporting needs right here in DB Tel: 2914 1323 Email: bruce@sportsworld.hk

RESTAURANTS 22º North Berliner Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Ebeneezer’s First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Ippu Japanese Restaurant Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery McDonald’s & McCafé McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Sopranos Subway Super Super Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Wildfire Fresh Zak’s

2987 2298 2987 8203 2987 0966 2987 2848 2987 0036 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 2886 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 0767 2987 1829 2987 1033 2987 8280 2987 1337 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2987 2915 2914 0005 2914 1308 2682 0068 2682 8108 2987 8202 2987 6232

Club Siena Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Residents Club

TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES

Tel: 2987 4274 www.dragons.hk

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

WELL-BEING

Body Talk Holistic therapy for illness, stress, sports injury & learning disorders Tel: 6683 5755 angie@bodytalksystem.com.hk www.bodytalksystem.com.hk

Child & Family Development Practice

Penny Scallan Design Unique and individual Tel: 6015 4050 hk@pennyscallan.biz www.pennyscallan.biz

Planting Ideas, Growing Minds.

Tel: 2987 2608 soyhongkong@gmail.com www.seedling.com.hk

Stuck on You Label It, Own It, Keep It! Tel: 2549 2245, 2987 2608 sales.hk@stuckonyou.biz www.stuckonyou.biz Bo Bo House Toysland

2987 4230 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES

Limousine Rental

Professional beauty treatments

by qualified RN & Medical Aesthetics Consultant kittytang@professionals-beauty.com Tel: 5116 1617 www.professionals-beauty.com

HK Dragons Football Club Football for 2.5- to 14- year old girls and boys

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

Nailed It

Tel: 2987 0772 curvesdb@gmail.com www.curves.com

embody-hk@live.com www.embody.com.hk

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

Professional artificial nail services in DB Tel: 2987 2266

Women’s Fitness Centre Club Siena Discovery Bay

Tel: 2987 8923 / 9060 5240

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

Eco Party Supplies, Toys, Games & Gifts www.missgreenpartyqueen.com

Curves

Classical Pilates, Yoga and more!

DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services

Developing potential, exploring possibilities www.childdevelopment.com.hk info@childdevelopement.com.hk

Little Miss Green The Party Queen

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

Embody

2987 7382 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381

TRANSPORT SERVICES

limo service in HK & China.  pick up from / to DB Tunnel  direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport Tel: 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@yahoo.com

Spa Siena Ladies-only day spa providing a wide range of massage treatment Tel: 2987 7382

Sher Martelle-Climas, R.M.T. Canadian Trained Therapist offers clinical massage for stress, sports injuries, chronic back pain, pre- & post- natal.

EFT also available. My home or yours.

Call for rates: 9503 9117 Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch

2987 0283 2987 2060 2987 4112 2987 9198

Around DB's July 2012 issue coming out

June 29 June 2012

75

HEALTH Q&A

Recreational drinking? Go easy with that! Alcohol can be a contributing factor to more long-term health issues than you realise, says Dr James Oliver of DB’s Island Health

1. Does alcohol have any health benefits?

It would appear that alcohol has some cardiovascular health benefits when drunk in moderation. But don’t be misled by the so-called French Paradox – the observation that the French, although seeming to consume ‘unhealthy’ food (cheese, milk, fatty foods), have a lower risk of heart disease than other Westerners. It was thought that red wine may be the explanation for this but the answer is probably more complex and to do with the proportion of fried foods, freshness of ingredients and lack of snacking as well as red wine.

There is also a problem with looking at only one part of the health picture. For example the rate of death from alcoholic cirrhosis is twice as high in France as it is in the UK, although Austria rather surprisingly tops the European table with a rate 1.4 times that of the French. If alcohol (drunk in moderation) has health benefits then they are fairly marginal when the whole picture is considered.

2. Just how moderate is moderate drinking?

The US definition of moderate is one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men. A standard drink is about the same as a 150-millilitre glass of wine or a 350-millilitre can of beer – notwithstanding the varying alcohol concentrations in different wines and beers.

3. Do you know when too much alcohol is really too much?

I suspect the answer for most people is no. The adverse effects of alcohol are generally gradual and come on over many years and by the time they are detectable there is likely to be some permanent damage done. Alcohol causes brain damage that can initially be very subtle, but with time, can become more severe and permanent. Poor awareness and alcohol dependency can lead to a tendency to ignore any warning signs. In addition, consuming more than seven drinks a week increases the risk of bowel cancer by 60%.

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June 2012

4. What does alcohol do to your blood and liver?

In the short term, alcohol induces required enzymes in the liver to metabolise alcohol more quickly. However, over a longer period, heavy consumption will lead to permanent scarring of the liver – cirrhosis, and eventually there will be insufficient healthy liver remaining which can result in liver failure. Livers have a remarkable ability to recover in excess Wine Still Life, drinkers but once cirrhosis sets in the Robert Burridge changes are permanent.

The short-term effects of alcohol in the blood makes red blood cells larger, which is not especially harmful. However alcoholics tend to eat poorly; the alcohol suppresses appetite and good nutrition is neglected. This can lead to vitamin deficiency resulting in anaemia.

5. Can you counterbalance negative effects of alcohol?

the

If you can’t say no to alcohol, eating adequate healthy foods, including fresh fruit and vegetables will help.

There are many advocates of vitamin supplements, especially B vitamins which can help offset the malnutrition aspects of alcohol, but there is no magic cure for the adverse effects of it.

6. Why are some people more addicted to alcohol than others?

It is thought that approximately 50% of the risk of becoming an alcoholic is genetically determined and 50% is environmental.

This has been assessed by many twin studies to try and determine the proportional effect of nature and nurture.

Also genetic is the inheritance of metabolism, particularly of the liver, which is more, or less tolerant of alcohol abuse. Of interest in Hong Kong, is the variation in the inheritance of the alcohol dehydrogenase enzyme, which when absent leads to reddening of the face, nausea and a fast heartbeat when drinking alcohol. This is much more common in people of Asian descent.

You can contact Dr James Oliver at Island Health on 2987 7575