Hong Kong Living New Arrivals' Guide
2020
WHERE TO PLAY, WHERE TO EAT, WHAT TO DO
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Hong Kong Living WELCOME TO HONG KONG 4
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New Arrivals' Guide 2020
You’re going to love it
The ultimate Hong Kong bucket list
Where it all began
Becky Love shares her arrival story
First things first
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Everything you need to know to get started
10 Howdy neighbour
Your neighbourhood guide
GET SETTLED 14 Make your house a home
Renting and decorating your space
18 Schools in
Hong Kong schools and activities
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24 Join the club
Private members' clubs
TREAT YOURSELF 30 Wine & dine
The best restaurants and bars
37 Health is wealth
Hospitals, fitness and beauty centres
40 Hike-arumba
Challenging trails to tackle
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PART OF THE FAMILY 45 For your furry friends
Pet relocation and adoption
BONUS READ 48 Time to explore
Hong Kong's hidden beaches
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who’s in charge? Editorial editorial@hongkongliving.com Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater
Contributing Editor Melanie Cox
Editor’s letter So you’ve just touched down amongst the humidity and skyscrapers - now what?
Senior Staff Writer Charmaine Ng
First and foremost, welcome to Hong Kong. While it may be a bit of a strange year to be relocating to the city, all Hongkongers will tell you - it’s the best place to be right now
Design vicky@hongkongliving.com Graphic Designer Vicky Lam
Graphic Designer Yankee Tsang
While this multicultural city may seem a little daunting at first, we hope this guide can provide you with all the basic information along with some tricks and tips to help you settle in.
Sales & Marketing ads@hongkongliving.com Director of Content Hilda Chan
Head of Digital Content Isamonia Chui
Partnership Mangers Chrissie Ip
Partnership Mangers Elaine Li
Digital apple@hongkongliving.com Digital Editor Apple Lee
Publisher matt@hongkongliving.com Matt Eaton
From the best international schools in the city to private members' clubs to join, you’ll be feeling at home in no time. If you need some inspiration to get started, our Hong Kong bucket list is filled with amazing things to do from temples to parties. Start ticking them off on page 4. We love Hong Kong and hope that this new guide will be the start of your very own long love affair with this wonderful city we call home.
Director tom@hongkongliving.com Tom Hilditch
Contributors
Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Fast Media Ltd, LG1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen's Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong
HONG KONG hongkongliving.com Hong Kong New Arrivals Guide is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Hong Kong New Arrivals Guide cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or the pubisher. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.
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Ellie Rampton Our wonderful cover artist and Hong Kong expat Ellie Rampton, founded Biscuitmoon Designs in 2012. The brand produces a wide range of fun and quirky greeting cards, bespoke personalised stationery and prints and canvases for the home. biscuitmoondesigns.com
Becky Love Our not so trailing spouse, Becky moved to Hong Kong in 2017 and welcomed a third member to her family last year. When she isn’t snapping pictures of her adorable baby, she’s exploring all the wonders this city has to offer.
Apple Lee Born and raised in Hong Kong, Apple loves exploring this place she calls home. A city girl and nature lover all at once, her favourite things to do include hitting the trails, going yum cha and checking out new restaurants around town.
we love hong kong
The Hong Kong 7 Bucket List 6
PARTY IN LAN KWAI FONG
The infamous party street Lan Kwai Fong is home to an array of bars, restaurants and clubs making it the perfect night out!
Top ten things to do around the city during your time here
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RIDE THE STAR FERRY
Cruise across Victoria Harbour on board one of Hong Kong’s most iconic boats. Having carried passengers to and from Hong Kong Island since the 19th century, the Star Ferry is a reminder of the city’s rich history and for just $2.7 it’s a great activity for the family. starferry.com.hk
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AFTERNOON TEA AT THE PENINSULA
The Peninsula afternoon tea has become a classic Hong Kong tradition since the hotel opened its doors in December 1928. Served daily in The Lobby, the set includes a selection of finger sandwiches, home-made afternoon tea pastries and of course, no traditional afternoon tea set would be complete without freshly baked raisin scones. peninsula.com
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With street markets on every corner, deals and discounts are just a stone's throw away in this city. Popular markets include Temple Street Night Market and Ladies Market, which offer a range of Hong Kong souvenirs, clothing and gadgets.
5 HIKE THE DRAGON'S BACK
Taking its unique and powerful name from the hilltop undulations, spanning between Wan Cham Shan and Shek O Peak, The Dragon’s Back is a must for all residents and visitors. The hike offers spectacular views of the Shek O mansions, beautiful beaches and the glistening South China Sea.
GRAB A DEAL AT THE MARKETS
TAKE A DIP AT SHEUNG LUK STREAM
Tucked away in the greenery of Sai Wan Beach, Sheung Luk Stream is magnificently large, made up of four connecting pools. Daredevils and thrill-seekers will love jumping into the fresh waters, but do so at your own risk.
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PRACTICE YOUR CHOPSTICK SKILLS AT TIM HO WAN
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THROW A JUNK PARTY
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WIN BIG AT THE RACES
Dim Sum is a traditional Chinese cuisine prepared in small bite-sized portions often served in steamer baskets. As one of the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, Tim Ho Wan frequently has diners queuing around the block for itsdelicious delicacy and reasonable prices. timhowan.hk
One of Hong Kong’s ultimate summer pastimes is a day out on the water. Hire a boat and do it yourself or select all inclusive packages for boat rental, food and activities.
Also referred to as Happy Wednesday, the weekly horse races held at Happy Valley Racecourse are the perfect excuse for a party. Cheer on your favourite horses while enjoying live performances every Wednesday from September to July. happywednesday.hkjc.com
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ADMIRE THE VIEW FROM THE PEAK
As the highest viewing point on Hong Kong Island, The Peak offers panoramic views sweeping across Hong Kong and the New Territories. Hike up via the Morning Trail and enjoy breakfast in the clouds at one of the many restaurants up there.
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trailing spouse
TRAILING SIDE-BY-SIDE SPOUSE Becky Love recounts her journey to expat life in Hong Kong
H
ong Kong was never on the cards for us. If someone had told me that I would one day be living overseas with my husband and son, I wouldn’t have believed them. Life was good in Australia. We owned our own home, had a fur baby, were recently married and both had steady jobs. Why leave a life that felt like a well oiled machine? Because, I suppose, that’s exactly what it was. A machine. We’d get up, get dressed, drive the same route to work, drive home, cook dinner, watch Netflix and be at it again the next day. Sure, we were content and certainly not unhappy, but for a newly married couple, we didn’t want that to be our life just yet. So in 2017, when the opportunity arose for my husband to fly for an airline in Hong Kong, we got the shake-up we didn’t realise we needed. We bid farewell to friends and
family, packed up our life into cardboard boxes and began our expat journey. Now, I had one condition for myself when making this move and it was to not end up a ‘Pilot’s wife’. Even the term ‘Trailing Spouse’ doesn’t sit right with me, because it implies I followed him over like an obedient little labrador. People told me that I would end up doing yoga and brunches with other pilot wives and that would be my new existence. As wonderful as that may sound, that’s not me. If I didn’t continue to chase what I had worked hard for, I would feel like I failed myself. I needed my own world in our new world, for both our sakes. So I found my own group of friends, a full-time job and an ever-growing love for our incredible new home. We both worked hard, as expats in Hong Kong generally come here to do, but also spent time eating new and exciting foods and exploring everything from
markets to mountains. I would head out to Wan Chai for girls nights while my husband would have drinks at the plaza. We would grab lunch by the beach together and take walks along the shore. It was perfect. It was different. It was us. Until two became three. Yep, one year later, I fell pregnant and oh how things have changed yet again. Now it’s all about learning which pram can easily fold down on transport, where to buy baby supplies and making a mental note of every change room as I pass it. Just as Hong Kong is transient and ever changing, so too is our life here. From new friends to new jobs, new hobbies, adventures and kids - we’ve learned to run with whatever life throws at us. And lucky for us, life has thrown us some pretty spectacular moments and memories - and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
IMMIGRATION AND VISAS Although it depends on the passport you hold, most people are allowed to land and stay in Hong Kong as a visa-free visitor from seven to 180 days. WORKING VISA Unless you have a Hong Kong “Right of Abode” or “Right to Land”, you will need a visa to work in Hong Kong. Having your company sponsor and issue your visa (and any dependent visas for your family) before you arrive is the most efficient process. You are not legally entitled to work without a visa but you can land and then set about getting one. Expect the visa process to take about six to eight weeks.
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DEPENDENT VISA AND TRAILING SPOUSES Unless your spouse has a job in Hong Kong and a visa in his/her own right, dependent visas are a must for your spouse and children under the age of 18 to be able to live full-time in Hong Kong. Holding a dependent visa allows your spouse to find a job and work without being tied to one sponsoring company.
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getting settled
YOU HAVE ARRIVED…
NOW WHAT? Your checklist to making Hong Kong home Hong Kong ID card Anyone in Hong Kong aged 11 or over is required to hold a Hong Kong ID card. If you are planning to stay longer than six months, an application must be made within 30 days of landing. Online appointments are recommended before you go in person to the Immigration Office. Details of the process and the five locations where applications are processed can be found on the Immigration Department website (immd.gov.hk). Immigration Tower (7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai) is the busiest office but the one most frequented by expats. Don’t forget to take: • Passport • Valid visa • Completed application form You should keep your ID on you at all times as Hong Kong police have the authority to stop and demand identity checks from anyone, at any time. It’s also a good idea to memorise the number since it’s routinely used as an identifier
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when calling banks or arranging services. Cards are fitted with a smart chip and can be used as a library card. Once your fingerprint has been registered to the chip, you can also use your HKID for quick immigration access via e-Channel in and out of Hong Kong International Airport, Macau and borders crossings with Mainland China.
Octopus card This Hong Kong essential is a debit style card most commonly used for public transport, car parking and vending machines, but can also be used to buy things like groceries, coffees and settling bills. Cards can be applied for and topped up most commonly at MTR stations, branches of 7-Eleven and Starbucks. You can also apply for the auto top-up so you never run out of credit.
Mobile networks The cheapest way to stay connected in the city is to buy a local SIM card. You’ll need a phone that is unlocked and you can buy a SIM card
Currency Hong Kong dollar
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Language English and Cantonese; Mandarin is becoming more widely spoken Population Over 7 million Weather Subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and frequent rain. Winter is cooler and drier. Time GMT +8 (+7 in winter months) Electricity 220 volts 50 hz. Three-pin UK-style plugs are most common International dialling code: +852 Emergency number: 999
Expatriate Tax Once you are settled in, then you’ll want to get your head around Hong Kong tax. If you are a UK or US citizen living away, there’s help available. See buzzacott.hk/ expatriate-tax
in the know from any mobile-phone shop or 7-Eleven. You will need to top it up with vouchers as your credit runs out. All networks offer Englishlanguage instructions for registration. Once you’re more settled, move onto a tariff with one of Hong Kong’s major networks. The biggest is China Mobile, followed by 3, CSL, PCCW Mobile and Smart Tone Vodafone.
Internet providers When it comes to a home internet service, you must first check who services your address. PCCW is the most widely available and therefore also the priciest. Other internet providers such as Hong Kong Broadband (HKBN) and i-cable are cheaper and just as reliable, but may not be available in your building.
Banking It is said that Hong Kong has more banks per square mile than any other city in the world.
Most banks offer the same type of generic services and credit and debit cards are widely used. Cheques are not commonly accepted in high-street shops and supermarkets, but can be used to pay for utilities, to settle bills with smaller companies or individuals and are often used to make school payments. HSBC, Standard Chartered, Citibank, Hang Seng and Bank of China are the most popular banks in Hong Kong and therefore the ones with the most branches and ATMs. As a general rule, you’ll need the following to open an account: • Your official ID, such as your passport or HKID card • Proof of address, such as a utility bill or mobile phone bill • Proof of address in your home address • A valid visa
Online food supplier Eat the Kiwi An online grocer that delivers high quality groceries from producers and farmers in New Zealand. Fruit and Vegetable are packed loose and in a recyclable box with biodegradable insulation, to ensure everything stays fresh. Shop now! eatthekiwi.com
Cantonese phrases Good morning: jou-sen (sounds like joesan) Good night: jou-tau (sounds like joe-towe)
Getting around the city •
MTR: With 14 unique lines, the Mass Transit Railway is one of the best transport systems in the world, connecting most of Hong Kong to the city.
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Taxis: Hong Kong taxis are some of the cheapest in the world, making it easy to get across the city. Passengers have to cover the tunnel tolls and the driver’s return toll. Look out for cross harbour taxi stands where drivers will accept a one-way tunnel fee.
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Buses: Mini bus and double decker bus routes cover almost all areas of Hong Kong, except outlying islands. Pay by cash or Octopus.
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Ferries: Ferries run between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon as well as to Discovery Bay, Lamma, Lantau and other outlying islands such as Cheung Chau or Peng Chau from designated Central ferry piers.
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Trams: Board the tram at the rear end and get off at the front. Pay by cash or Octopus on exiting the tram. No change is given.
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neighbourhoods
WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBOURHOOD Find your perfect spot in the city
SOUTHSIDE Stanley This scenic neighbourhood offers a picturesque promenade and British-era architecture attracting a healthy number of local and overseas visitors. Spend a day lazing at one of Stanley’s sandy beaches, shop til you drop at the street market and for those with kids, the International Montessori School which is in close proximity to the town is a popular choice for expats.
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Repulse Bay Famously referred to by Forbes magazine as, ‘the most expensive real estate per square foot in the world’, Repulse Bay is home to one of Hong Kong’s longest beaches and a range of beachside bars and restaurants at The Pulse. ESF’s second campus, South Island School, is not too far away.
Pok Fu Lam Situated to the southwest of The Peak area, Pok Fu Lam offers fabulous views of the sea and Pok Fu Lam Reservoir. This historic area was home to Hong Kong's first dairy farm and Pok Fu Lam Village, which was included
in the 2014’s World Monuments Watch, an organisation that calls international attention to cultural heritage around the world. The neighbourhood has multiple private housing estates and is in close proximity to Kennedy School and West Island School.
HONG KONG ISLAND Kennedy Town Located away from the hustle and bustle, this area has a quaint seaside town vibe whilst still being easily accessible to Central. The neighbourhood offers hipster cafés, independent eateries and a generally younger demographic of singles and couples.
Mid-Levels In the centre of all the action, Mid-Levels is home to many international restaurants and bars, including the infamous Lan Kwai Fong street. Homes here offer fabulous urban views,
howdy neighbour
convenient transportation around the city and great hiking trails. The neighbourhood is also home to ESF's first ever school, Island School.
The Peak Once exclusive to wealthy residents, most of whom would be carried up to their homes in sedan chairs, The Peak is a high-end neighbour with stunning views over the city. Today of course, properties in the area are accessible to anyone with the means to buy. The area is also home to major tourist attractions such as Victoria Peak and the Peak tram.
Happy Valley Ironically named for being the home to Hong Kong’s first Christian cemetery, Happy Valley has grown up around the central and iconic Happy Valley Racecourse. It has its fair share of modern high rises but low-rise developments are also available, although the further up towards Jardine’s Lookout you go, the larger and more expensive the flats become.
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neighbourhood
NEW TERRITORIES Sai Kung Referred to as the city’s ‘back garden’, Sai Kung will have you wondering if you’re still in Hong Kong. The town’s laid back vibe has attracted many expats and families. Local businesses thrive in this neighbourhood due to its isolation from the city, but when you need to travel to the Island, Hong Kong’s trusty transport system will get you there in an hour
Clearwater Bay For a higher-end experience whilst retaining the seaside tranquility of Sai Kung, look no further than Clearwater Bay. With sweeping views over the port shelter and plenty of lush greenery, this neighbourhood is perfect for those looking for a spacious home. The area is also home to the Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club where members can socialise with other residents.
Tseung Kwan O Located at the end of the purple line, Tseung Kwan O is ideal for those who commute to the city but want to escape on the weekend. The up-and-coming neighbourhood is home to shopping centres, restaurants and a 14-kilometre cycle track.
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OUTLYING ISLANDS Discovery Bay Ah, DB or as some might refer to it, “dogs and babies.” Although this area has quite the reputation for being the subject of location related jokes, this neighbourhood is perfect for families and expats looking to settle down. Grab a pint and overlook the white sandy beach at D-Deck seaside plaza. Discovery Bay International School and Discovery College are convenient options for children.
Lamma Island Consider yourself artsy? Then Lamma is the place for you. Just one 30-minute boat ride from the city, you’ll be transported to a calm and tranquil destination, home to a younger, more artistic crowd. This unique neighbourhood has significantly cheaper property prices compared to other areas of the city.
One-stop property search HomeinHK work with big and small estate agencies across the city to help clients secure ideal properties at the best rates and low commission. homeinhk.com
howdy neighbour
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home & living
Indigo Living
A PLACE TO CALL HOME How find the perfect home and decorate it like a pro
RENT ING A standard tenancy agreement is a two-year lease with a break clause after one year. Two months’ termination notice is usually required. The lease can be in the name of the company you work for or a personal lease in your own name.
DOs • Find a good estate agent and brief him/her fully on your needs, your priorities and what you’re prepared to compromise on. • Go house hunting with an open mind. You might have to wade through a lot of average pads before you find the gem that ticks your boxes.
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• Do your own research. Walk around the neighbourhood you’re considering and work out travelling time to your office/to your kids’ schools.
• Don’t sign any agency forms prior to looking at property. Some agents will use these forms to make a claim on your commission even if you don’t end up renting through them.
• Ask if rent is inclusive or exclusive of management fees, government rent and property rates.
SERVICED APART MENTS
• Act quickly and sign on the dotted line once you’ve found a suitable property. Good ones tend to go fast.
DON’Ts • Don’t expect to find a replica of what you had back home. Particularly if you wish to live on Hong Kong Island, cast your net wider and you’ll be able to find a house although it will still cost you top dollar.
de Ricou Serviced Apartments Just steps from the sandy shores of Repulse Bay Beach and in one of Hong Kong’s prime locations, de Ricou Apartments features spacious living areas, breathtaking views and great amenities. Apartments are available both furnished and unfurnished and for short and long term lease. therepulsebay.com
home interiors clock security and maintenance services. Residents can also enjoy privileged access to the exclusive Pacific Club, which offers a plethora of recreational and dining facilities. gatewayapartments.com.hk
DECOR AND F URNISHINGS Waterfront Suites Located in Shau Kei Wan close to Sai Wan Ho MTR station on the Island line, these new serviced apartments offer sea-view studios and one and two-bedroom apartments. There is an emphasis on wellness with services centred around lifestyle including rooftop yoga and a lounge offering breakfast, coffees and cocktails. waterfrontsuites.lansonplace.com
Gateway Apartments Located within Harbour City in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, Gateway Apartments features 256 fully-furnished units with panoramic sea views. Contract terms are flexible, from one month to 24 months, and there are daily housekeeping, concierge, round-the-
TREE TREE’s flagship store occupies the entire 28th floor of Horizon Plaza and is packed with reclaimed and recycled timber furniture, colourful chairs and accessories. There’s a tailor-made service, cool kids range and vintage and modern styles to choose from. They also have a lovely cafe serving drinks and food to takeaway and a play area for little ones. tree.com.hk
Indigo Living In addition to a vast and stylish selection of home furnishings to buy online and in its stores, popular interiors store Indigo Living also offers flexible furniture rental solutions and a full range of interior services including home styling and renovation. indigo-living.com
Homeless This quirky furniture and decor store offers modern and cutting-edge design products for adults and kids, including items imported from Scandinavia, Europe and Asia. With eight locations across Hong Kong, itsstores are always a delight to walk through and discover new knick-knacks you never knew your home needed. homeless.hk
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home & living
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home interiors BoConcept Founded in Denmark in 1952, BoConcept has opened nearly 300 stores across the world. The lifestyle brand stocks a range of contemporary designs for the modish urban dweller and even offers interior design services. Check out its selection of designer sofas including chaise Longue, open-end and daybed options. boconcept.com
On the move Redbox storage is an easy and hassle free storage solution for short and long term usage. They also provide packing materials, movers and even security facilities. redboxstorage. com.hk
Maximising small spaces By Hong Kong-based Interior designer, Oliver Corrin • Look for multi-purpose furniture, whether it’s a sofa with a hidden compartment, or a bench with open storage. • Mirrors create the illusion of space. A large decorative floor mirror can really open up your space and make it brighter. • Love her or hate her, Marie Kondo knows a thing or two about small spaces. Follow her lead and consider whether you actually need every item in your apartment. • Don’t assume that small furniture pieces are the only option. A large rug coupled with a feature sofa can make a room feel airy and luxurious.
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education
HOW TO GET A SCHOOL PLACE Amelia Sewell, Education Editor for Hong Kong Living, explains the Hong Kong school system
Hong Kong Academy Primary students
H
ong Kong regularly features high on education barometers as a leading city in which to be schooled. But the system behind the hype is not a straightforward one, so it’s important to get a grasp of a few things before your search for a school can begin.
Local vs international Broadly speaking, schools in Hong Kong fall into two camps: local schools and international schools. The criterion for this segregation is that local schools teach the Hong Kong curriculum, predominantly in Cantonese. They are also largely free or heavily subsidised. Meanwhile, international schools can teach any of the global curricula (IB, A Levels, HSC, Le Bac etc). The dominant language at international school is English, however where English is not the mother tongue, they usually have two streams: one taught in the native language and
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the other taught in English. And in case you didn’t already know, you will soon find out that international schools are the opposite of free – they are in fact notoriously expensive.
ESF Beneath the international schools umbrella is a subgroup called English Schools Foundation, more commonly known as ESF. As there are nearly 20 ESF schools catering for 12,000 students, this is an acronym that any schoolhunting parent in Hong Kong will hear repeatedly. Strictly speaking, the schools under the ESF banner are not international schools, but that is essentially just a technicality. They offer a combination of English and international curricula, so from the perspective of the type of education a child receives it’s easiest to look on them as international.
Time and research It's no secret that school places in Hong Kong are hot property. Therefore the two things that will help you most when selecting a school for
your child are time and research. The more time you give yourself, the greater your chance of being offered a place at your preferred school. But if time is not something you possess, you will have to rely on research. In most cases, this means making a long list of possible schools and then calling them directly in order to understand whether they have space and what their admission criteria are. It is important that your list is long because most people’s first choices are also the most popular ones.
Location, location, location One area you definitely need to spend some time considering is where you plan to live in relation to where your children might go to school. Geographically, Hong Kong is fairly small, but that doesn’t mean it is always convenient to get around. If you’re planning to live on Lamma, nipping to Harrow for a parent-teacher day might not be easy. As accommodation is often easier to arrange than schooling, it could be advisable to secure school places before settling on where to live.
school place Visiting the schools
The older, the easier – possibly
Once some possible places are located, the next step is to go and visit. Choosing a school is a personal process – so while word of mouth can be helpful, it is unwise to rely on hearsay alone; go and visit the schools to get to know them in relation to your own family and priorities.
Generally, places are easier to find for older children. This is partly because teenagers in Hong Kong often head off to boarding school in other countries. In addition to this, many families choose to leave Hong Kong once their children are a little older, as the pull of being closer to family grows. So those with older children may find the process slightly easier.
Seeking advice While it’s not always wise to rely on hearsay, if you have questions about schools there are some helpful Facebook groups where you can pick the brains of the more experienced. The main one is called Hong Kong Schools, and there are also a number of nationality-based groups (e.g., British Mums in HK) where you can post questions for those who have previously made the same move as you.
In the know •
Many schools, such as the ESF schools, base their Primary One admissions on the calendar year (children born from January to December.) Others such as Kellett go by the academic year (children born from September to August).
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Kindergarten education is not mandatory in Hong Kong, so you can always opt out.
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Most ESF and international schools offer Mandarin as part of the weekly curriculum.
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Many international schools (French International, German Swiss and Chinese International) offer bilingual as well as English streams. Kiangsu Chekiang International uses Mandarin as its main language of instruction.
New school, new places Similarly, the selection process can possibly be shortened if you are willing to consider schools that are just opening in Hong Kong, because logic dictates that their admissions list will be newer and therefore not as many people will be signed up for them than for schools that have been around for longer.
Terminology
Money, money, money
There is no uniform terminology between the schools – different schools refer to the same things by different names. So what is known as Year 1 in one place could be known as Kindergarten at another school, and may also moonlight as K3 or Prep somewhere else. It is therefore crucial to understand the terminology of each school so that you’re applying for the correct year.
And lastly, a word on debentures. There is much to get your head around when moving to Hong Kong, and not the least of these is the financial structuring of the international schools. In other countries, debentures are associated with sports stadiums and finance houses; in Hong Kong, they are likely to be a major factor in whether or not you choose a certain school for your child. As with other issues, research is key.
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schools
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education
SEARCH FOR A SCHOOL Find the right fit for your child
Malvern College Pre-School Hong Kong
Kindergartens
Frameworks and Hong Kong Kindergarten Education Curriculum Guide Location: Tin Hau Website: fairchild.academy
Curriculum: British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Address: Sai Wan and Yau Ma Tei Website: malvernpreschool.hk
Age: 2 to 6 years Curriculum: Canadian Early Learning Framework and Hong Kong Kindergarten Education Curriculum Guide Location: Sai Ying Pun Website: fairchild.edu.hk
City Kids Pre-School and Playgroup
Woodland Pre-Schools
Age: 2.8 to 5 years Curriculum: UK Early Years, Foundation Stahe Curriculum (EYFS) Address: Mid-Levels Website: citykidshk.org
Fairchild Junior Academy
Sai Kung Montessori
Age: 8 months to 4 years Curriculum: Canadian Early Learning
Age: 3 to 6 years Curriculum: Montessori Address: Sai Kung Website: saikungmontessori.com
Age: 6 months to 6 years Curriculum: Montessori and traditional methods based on the Early Years Foundation (British National Curriculum) Address: Mid-Levels, Repulse Bay, Kennedy Town, Happy Valley, Pokfulam, Aberdeen and Sai Kung Website: woodlandschools.com
Fairchild Nursery & Kindergarten
Nord Anglia International Pre-School Hong Kong Age: 3 to 5 years Curriculum: British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Address: Sai Kung Website: nordangliaeducation.com
Malvern College Pre-School Hong Kong Age: 2 to 5 years Fairchild Junior Academy
Woodland Pre-Schools
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education
Primary schools Anfield School Age: 18 months to 11 years Curriculum: British National Curriculum, British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Address: Kowloon Tong, Hung Hom and Tai Wai Website: anfield.edu.hk
Mount Kelly Hong Kong Age: 6 months to 13 years Curriculum: The English National Curriculum, British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Address: Jordan and Tsim Sha Tsui Website: mountkelly.edu.hk
The International Montessori School
The International Montessori School Age: 2 to 12 years Curriculum: Montessori Dual-Language Programmes Address: Mid-Levels, South Horizons, Stanley and Aldrich Bay Website: ims.edu.hk
Chinese Academy
Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong
Age: 5 to 9 years Curriculum: Bilingual immersion globalised curriculum, inquiry-based learning. IB MYP and DP in secondary school Address: Causeway Bay Website: caps.edu.hk
Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong
Malvern College Hong Kong
Hong Kong International School
Hong Kong Academy
Age: 5 to 18 years Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP & DP) Address: Providence Bay Website: malverncollege.org.hk
Age: 4 to 18 years Curriculum: American curriculum; Advanced Placement (AP) courses available in High School Location: Tai Tam and Repulse Bay Website: hkis.edu.hk
Age: 3 to 18 years Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP & DP) Address: Sai Kung Website: hkacademy.edu.hk
Chinese Academy
Age: 3 to 11 years Curriculum: English National Curriculum Address: Tseung Kwan O Website: shrewsbury.hk
Secondary & through schools Canadian International School of Hong Kong Age: 3 to 18 years Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP & DP), Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) Address: Aberdeen Website: cdnis.edu.hk
Kellett School Age: 4 to 18 years Curriculum: English National Curriculum Address: Pok Fu Lam (Preparatory) and Kowloon Bay (Preparatory and Senior) Website: kellettschool.com Canadian International School of Hong Kong
Yew Chung International School of Hong Kong Age: 6 months to 18 years Curriculum: International Address: Kowloon tong and Tseung Kwan O Website: ycis-hk.com Hong Kong Academy
Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong Age: 3 to 18 years Curriculum: British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), British National Curriculum, IBDP Address: Kowloon Website: nais.hk
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clubs
JOIN THE CLUB Sports, social and recreation clubs for all budgets and interests 24 | New Arrivals' Guide
where to join
Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club Established in 1982, this prestigious country club is the perfect place to bond with fellow Clearwater Bay residents. With a 18-hole golf course, outdoor swimming pool and two restaurants, the club provides a great space to relax and socialise. cwbgolf.org
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where to join Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club Founded in 1890, this is one of the largest yacht clubs in the world. It was the only Hong Kong club that kept the ‘Royal’ in its title posthandover. Training programs are open to all abilities and ages. Membership is contingent on an interest in rowing or sailing. rhkyc.org.hk
Aberdeen Boat Club Known as the ‘friendliest club in Hong Kong’, ABC has been a key location for film shoots with scenes from movies including Enter the Dragon (1973) starring Bruce Lee. The club also offers great watersports including dinghy and keelboat sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, dragon boating, Stand Up Paddle Board, fishing and scuba diving. Land-based activities include golf, karate and yoga. abclubhk.com
Hebe Haven Yacht Club This friendly Sai Kung-based club is ideal for boating, yacht racing and watersports enthusiasts, offering easy access to some of Hong Kong’s best sailing waters and beaches. It actively promotes youth sailing at its sail training centre and runs regular sailing courses for adults too. hhyc.org.hk
Hong Kong Cricket Club
Aberdeen Marina Club AMC is one of the most polished clubs in Hong Kong providing world-class Shangri-la service. Facilities include seven restaurants, 10 banqueting venues, an amazing children’s playroom and laser-tag zone, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and various racquet sports, as well as an ice-skating rink. aberdeenmarinaclub.com
Foreign Correspondents’ Club Cited as the most famous press club in the world, FCC Hong Kong has a rich past dating back to 1943. Housed in a beautiful, colonial building in Central, it is still an important media hub that provides a neutral platform for an impressive selection of local and international speakers. Correspondents and journalists can join at the rate of $3,000 with a monthly subscription fee of $1,100. fcchk.org
Established in 1851, the HKCC is the oldest cricket club in Asia. It had a pitch in Chater Gardens until 40 years ago when it moved to Wong Nai Chung Gap. Activities on offer include swimming, squash, rugby, netball, dance and bridge. The Annual Garden Party is spectacular and the club’s biggest event of the year. hkcc.org
Hong Kong Football Club
Sports and recreation are the lifeblood of the HKFC, fantastic facilities make it one of the best sports clubs in the region. While football and rugby continue to be core sports, other sports include netball, field hockey, tennis, lawn bowls and squash, and also offers a good range of leisure facilities. The Club presently has approximately 3,300 members and sports membership is open to individuals who are able to play sport at a team level. hkfc.com.hk
The American Club Founded in 1925, this member-owned club offers a small taste of home to Americans (the burgers are particularly good), with membership options for non-US citizens as well. Patrons can visit two clubhouses, one in Central and one in Tai Tam, both providing luxurious dining, fitness centres and a country store with products shipped in from America. The renovated bar in Central is actually a 130-year old bar brought across from the first family-owned restaurant in New York, which once hosted patrons including Marilyn Monroe. americanclubhk.com
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clubs
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wine & dine
A VIEW TO DINE FOR Take in the million dollar views at these restaurants
Harbourside Grill Located at Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, Harbourside Grill boasts sweeping views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island’s skyline. Helmed by Executive Chef Armand Sablon the steakhouse puts forward a grillcentric menu with a French flare. Alongside a wide selection of beef, including USDA prime ribeye and Japanese A5 Wagyu sirloin, the restaurant also offers seafood and poultry dishes. harboursidegrill.com.hk
SEVVA Located in the penthouse of Prince’s Building, SEVVA offers unobstructed, panoramic views of the stunning Hong Kong skyline. The restaurant is split into five areas – two dining rooms serving
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a range of luxury dishes including ‘double take’ Wagyu tenderloin, a wraparound terrace, a taste bar and the SEVVA Sweets Corner. sevva.hk
ALTO Perched on the 31st floor in Causeway Bay, ALTO spoils its guests with breathtaking views of the harbour and Tsim Sha Tsui from both the rooftop bar and restaurant. The restaurant is Tom Dixon Design Studio’s first project in Asia
impress your guests
Harbourside Grill
and features blackened timber tabletops as well as Dixon’s signature hanging pendant lights. The classic grill menu includes prime steaks and Australian lamb. diningconcepts.com
out onto the surrounding high-rise buildings. Dine on Chef Didier Quennouelle’s Europeaninspired menu and head out onto the outdoor terrace to get that perfect Instagram picture. niccolohotels.com
Wooloomooloo Steakhouse Wooloomooloo overlooks the famous Happy Valley Racecourse and surrounding buildings. Enter on the 31st floor to reach the restaurant, where you can dine on luxurious steaks while drinking premium Penfolds wine. After dinner, head upstairs to the rooftop bar to indulge in a Wooloomooloo Flirtini and take in Hong Kong’s spectacular scenes. woo-steakhouse.com
Popinjays Popinjays takes its name from the resident
cockatoos that can be found along Garden Road, Hong Kong Park and Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. The rooftop restaurant, bar and terrace is located in the Penthouse of The Murray hotel and looks
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wine & dine
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family friendly
Burger Circus
FAMILY-FRIENDLY The best places to bring your kids
Limewood
KIDS This colourful EAT F REE Repulse Bay MON D AY TO restaurant makes WED NESD for a fun pitstop for AY a day at the beach. Specialising in barbecue, seafood and margaritas, Limewood serves up a fusion of Hawaiian and Caribbean cuisines. It’s also pet-friendly, so bring your furry friends too limewood.hk
Chaiwala The vibrant Indian restaurant has a weekend Holi brunch where families can enjoy elevated Indian classics like pani puri, dosa and a range of curries. Upgrade to a free-flow drinks package while the little ones sip on bottomless lassi. There’s also a cotton candy station and play area filled with toys so you know your kids will be having a grand old time. chaiwala.hk
Fini’s Fini’s is all about farm-to-fork, familystyle Italian food. The casual-cool New York vibes here will please
KIDS E WEEK AT FREE DAYS FR 4-7PM OM
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family friendly adults and kids alike. The fresh pasta is always a hit, as are the mac and cheese pizzas. linguinifini.com
Yum Cha Yum Cha serves up some of the cutest, most Instagrammable dim sum in town, with a signature custard molten bun decorated with googly eyes. Kids are sure to love the photogenic dishes, and parents will love that the food contains no MSG. yumchahk.com
The Pawn Best for long weekend brunches, KIDS EAT make your way up to FREE DURI the second floor of WEEK NG EN this iconic colonialBRUN D style building, and CH you’ll be treated to some kid-free time as the little tykes make the most of the dedicated play area. Go on and take advantage of the free-flow drinks packages on offer. thepawn.com.hk
Burger Circus Designed to look like the inside of a train carriage, Burger Circus has an old-school American diner vibe that children will love. Wash everything down with a delicious
Fini's
house-made milkshake or candyshake. burgercircus.com.hk
Local favourites Tim Ho Wan Michelin-starred dim sum? Yep, Tim Ho Wan is the real deal. Serving the cheapest Michelin-starred food in the world. Awarded for its food rather than service, the taste and price make this place a must-try be prepared for long lines on weekends. timhowan.com Lee Lo Mei Quirky Hong Kong-style restaurant and bar Lee Lo Mei serves up a range of classic Cantonese dishes including fried rice and ‘ping pong buns’. The nostalgic flavours and retro style interiors will bring back those Hong Kong childhood memories. leelomei.hk The Chairman Hongkongers are no strangers to The Chairman. The Chinese restaurant nabs the highest spot of any local establishment at number 2 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2020. Make sure to order the razor clams and smoked baby pigeon, both of which the restaurant is renowned for. thechairmangroup.com
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health & wellness
HEALTHCARE IN HONG KONG Hong Kong is blessed with excellent healthcare facilities. Here’s what you need to know
H
ong Kong’s healthcare system is divided into public and private providers. Residents are lucky to have access to a world-class public healthcare system at virtually no cost. There is also an abundance of private healthcare options available to keep you and your loved ones healthy.
Private Hospitals Hong Kong Adventist Hospital With state-of-the-art equipment and highlyskilled staff, the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital provides patients with attentive care in a safe and comfortable environment. 40 Stubbs Road, Happy Valley. hkah.org.hk
Matilda International Hospital A leading healthcare provider and world class private hospital with a reputation for personalised patient care and a highlyrespected maternity service. 41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak. matilda.org
Gleneagles Hong Kong Hospital A state-of-the-art, multi-specialty private tertiary hospital designed to provide patients
with high-quality and accessible healthcare services. 1 Nam Fung Path, Wong Chuk Hang. gleneagles.hk Hong Kong has over 43 public hospitals and
Public HOSPITAL medical institutions, 49 specialist out-patient clinics and 73 general out-patient clinics, located around the city. Details of all public hospitals in Hong Kong can be found on the Hospital Authority website: ha.org.hk If you ask whether or not you need health
Leading health insurance broker in Hong Kong AD MediLink provides exceptional service and unbiased advice on local and international medical plans. Some of their core expertise include maternity and family plans. admedilink.hk
Private clinics Stanley Wellness Centre A natural, family health clinic which offers multiple allied and complementary health disciplines to ensure each patient receives optimum health care. stanleywellnesscentre.com
Health insurance insurance in Hong Kong, you will most likely receive the same answer across the board: “It depends”. Unlike places like the US where healthcare costs are high and health insurance is extremely beneficial, Hong Kong gives us the option of a much cheaper government system, or on the flipside, one of the most expensive private systems in the world. So basically, you just need to work out which system is going to be best for you and your family – private or public. If going private, chances are you will opt for health insurance to cover those hefty fees.
OT&P One of the city’s leading healthcare providers and the first medical clinic in Hong Kong to receive an Australian Council of Health Services (ACHS) accreditation. Multiple locations. otandp.com
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health & wellness
FEEL GOOD ON
Stay fit, healthy and pampered with these fabulous exercise classes and beauty treatments
THE inside Pure Fitness With 12 conveniently located outlets dotted across the city, this mega gym chain offers a range of popular group classes including yoga, TRX and dance fitness. pure-fitness.com
TopFit This uber-chic boutique gym offers a personalised approach to fitness training with one-on-one personal training sessions and small group classes designed to cater to each individual. top-fit.com
Mindful Wing Chun
Iso Fit
Balancing both physical and mental health, Mindful Kung Fu kids’ classes aim to develop the whole human essence. The students can learn how to express themselves, look after themselves, get fit and be active in a supportive, clean and calming environment. mindfulwingchun.com.hk
Established by Dawnna Wayburne in 1998, Iso Fit studios are fully equipped with Pilates and Gyrotonic equipment. The studio also has a team of dedicated professionals who run regular sessions for a range of exercises. isofit.com.hk
LIGHTS//OUT A unique high-intensity boxing and fitness workout in a fun party-style atmosphere. Its BootyBox classes tackle major muscle groups of the lower body, and are guaranteed to leave your legs and bums on fire. lightsouthk.com
Anahata Yoga Anahata Yoga offers more than 100 classes per week. Its popular back care yoga is designed for office workers who often sit at their desks for long hours. anahatayoga.com.hk
Enhale Meditation Studio Enjoy deep relaxation experiences aimed at alleviating stress and rejuvenating energy. Classes include sound baths with Malbert Lee and aromatherapy. enhalems.com
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Barre 2 Barre Get your quads working with a variety of barre workouts including Barre and Yoga, Barre and Suspension and BarreAmped Bounce. Barre shakes and great feelings guaranteed. barre2barre.com
be well
hotels, Asaya offers an extensive wellness programme including luxury spa and facial treatments, physical therapies, nutritional consultation and more. Tsim Sha Tsui. rosewoodhotels.com
Freedas
And outside W52 Hair • Nails Set in a sophisticated and well-lit space, the friendly staff and professional stylists at W52 are ready to pamper you and turn your beauty dreams into reality. If you hadn’t guessed it from the name, W52 also does fabulous nails. w52hair-nails.com
Sense of Touch Known for its friendly service and relaxing spa experiences, Sense of Touch is a multiaward winning spa with locations across Central, Repulse Bay and TKO. Indulge your senses with a range of treatments from facials to massages. senseoftouch.com.hk
Asaya, Rosewood Hong Kong Set inside one of Hong Kong’s suaviest
Popular, no-frills Freedas offers cheap and colourful beauty experiences including eyebrow threading and waxing. Multiple locations. freedashk.com
Handsome Factory This retro, black and white themed barber shop has a range of vintage decor including the slick barber uniforms. The shop provides a range of hair treatments from cuts to wet shaves and beard trimming. handsomefactory.com
Paul Gerrard Paul Gerrard and his international team are a firm favourite among the expat community. With a range of high quality hair, skincare, professional makeup and well-being services, the experience offered here is much like a visit to a high-end salon back home. paulgerrard.com
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hikes
HIKE-ARUMBA
Enjoy every Hongkongers favorite pastime with these challenging trails
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off the beaten track
Tai Long Sai Wan Considered one of the most beautiful places in Hong Kong, this secluded spot requires an easy downhill hike through Sai Kung East Country Park to reach its powdery sand and clear waters. Those wanting a challenge can hike up the trail back or take a speed boat to Sai Kung from one of the nearby restaurants. Sai Wan is also a very popular surfing and overnight camping spot.
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home & living
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hikes Sunset Peak
Photo: hangraffiti Flickr
Hong Kong’s third highest STUN NING peak and Lantau’s second VIEW highest mountain, Sunset S Peak is known for its gorgeous sunset views overlooking the Lantau coastline. The sunsets here are so beautiful, they have even been featured on Cantopop singer Eason Chan’s album Taste the Atmosphere. Be sure to bring along a flashlight since descending from the peak after dark can be dangerous. If you are new to hiking, consider catching the sunrise instead.
Dragon’s Back Dragon’s Back took home BEST the prize for Hong Kong’s FO favourite hike in our Hong NEW R B IES Kong Living Awards 2020 and it’s not difficult to see why. Popular with both locals and tourists, beginner or expert, the Dragon’s Back trail boasts beautiful coastal views of Shek O, Tai Long Wan and Tung Lung Island. It is easily accessible from the city which means it gets busy, particularly during weekends. Get there early, or prepare to queue just to get onto the trail.
Twin Peaks and Violet Hill If you’re looking for a challenge then Twin Peaks and Violet Hill is the hike for you. This workout packs a serious punch and is commonly referred to as the “Terrible Twins” due to its seemingly never-ending FANC series of steps (over 1,000 CHAL Y A LENG E? actually). We strongly advise doing this hike from Parkview to Stanley, rather than in the opposite direction as when you’re halfway up the first peak, thinking you should have gone for brunch instead, the visions of Stanley’s restaurants, along with the gentle ocean breeze, will keep you going. The first peak is much harder than the second. You begin the hike with an ascent up Violet Hill barely a warm up for what’s to come.
Lion Rock There is a roaring lion to STUN the north. This hike is NIN slightly lesser known but NIGH G T certainly up there in terms VIEW S of grandeur. Conquer this rugged ridge to witness some of Hong Kong’s finest views. Feel the intense sprawl of Kowloon against the scenic backdrop of the island. When you reach the peak, you’ll feel incredible and the hiking conditions on either side are also most enjoyable. Keep an eye out for wildlife along
views of Hong Kong island from above, far better than any rooftop bar! From this point, head back down to Choi Hung and take care descending as the path can be slippery with loose rocks along the way.
Peak Circle Walk
the way, in particular monkeys. The path will undulate for an hour or so before arriving at the foot of Lion Rock. Upon reaching the summit at 495 metres above sea level, the footpath emerges from the undergrowth to reveal unrivaled panoramas of Kowloon and its surroundings.
Suicide Cliff at Kowloon Peak Standing at 603 metres above sea level, Kowloon FOR Peak offers panoramic INSTA GRAM views of bustling Victoria MERS Harbour from one direction and serene Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay from the other. The hike starts with a steep incline up to the summit which takes around an hour. Once there you can follow the trail down to Suicide Cliff (called so because of its rocky feature which resembles a diving board). Here you’ll enjoy stunning
A concrete path runs FOR L around the top of The Peak, ITTL making this hike perfect LEGS E for families. Starting from Lugard Road, near The Peak Galleria, follow the shaded path in a circular fashion until you return to your starting point, along the way you’ll enjoy great views of Hong Kong’s skyline from all angles. The route will take around 45 minutes and offers many seated areas and places for little ones to run around and let off steam.
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pets
PAWSOME PETS
In the market for a new best friend? All your need to know about animal adoption and pet ownership in Hong Kong
IMPORTING
You must apply for a special permit from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD; afcd.gov.hk) in order to bring your animal to Hong Kong, which currently costs $432 for each cat or dog, and slightly less for reptiles. It takes at least five working days for the government to issue a permit, and expires after six months
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pets of receiving it. You may be asked to submit proof that your pet has recently received health checks, vaccinations and blood tests as part of the application.
Be warned; if you fail to acquire a permit for your pet, you could face it being put in government quarantine for four months, or even sent back to your country of origin.
EXPORTING
Consider a plan to export your pet way in advance of your leaving date, as you may find some countries require you to undertake lengthy procedures. Consider enlisting a pet relocation agent, such as PetExportVet, Ferndale Kennels and Cattery or International Pet Travel to help you ensure you get all the practical arrangements right. In particular, choosing the right cargo crate for your animal is essential to ensure its welfare. Bear in mind some airlines have restrictions on which breeds they will transport.
VETERINARY CLINICS
Pets Central
Providing your pet with one stop veterinary care, Pets Central have hospitals in Mong Kok, Sai Kung, North Point and Tseung Kwan O and mobile clinics in Fairview Park and Park Island. Many of its clinics offer 24 hour nursing care, with the North Point clinic open 24 hours a day. pets-central.com
Stanley Veterinary Centre This multi-vet practice in Stanley caters to all your pets needs including general advice, diagnostics, surgery, wellness and housecalls. Their friendly and experienced team does its best to make you and your pet feel relaxed and comfortable. stanleyvetcentre.com
East Island Animal Hospital Founded in 2003, East Island Animal Hospital caters to every animal need including routine checkups, vaccinations and emergency visits. It provides advanced diagnostic facilities with continued upgrades to make sure your pet has the best healthcare available. For afterhours care, the Animal Emergency Centre operates at its hospital premises from 9pm to 8am, seven days a week. eastislandvets. com.hk
Want a new best friend? We are big supporters of adopting not shopping. There are some excellent and dedicated animal charities which help to rehome abandoned animals, including: • • • • • Hong Kong Dog Rescue
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SPCA spca.org.hk Hong Kong Cats hongkongcats.org Hong Kong Dog Rescue hongkongdogrescue.com Kirsten’s Zoo kirstenszoo.com Sai Kung Stray Friends saikungstrayfriends.org
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HONG KONG’S HIDDEN BEACHES Tai Long Sai Wan
Hap Mun Wan
Considered one of the most beautiful places in Hong Kong, this secluded spot requires a hike through Sai Kung East Country Park to reach its powdery sand and clear waters.
Taking the name of "Half Moon Bay", this beach is located just off the coast of Sai Kung has been given a Grade 1 water quality.
Pui O Famous for its stunning sunsets, this relaxed, laid back beach is popular amongst Lantau locals.
Big Wave Bay Hailed as the birthplace of Hong Kong’s surf scene, this beach is naturally popular with local surfers.
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Cheung Sha
Shek O
Located on southern Lantau, this is one of Hong Kong’s longest beaches stretching from Lower Cheung Sha to Upper Cheung Sha.
The dramatic scenery, sheltered location and clean, fine golden sands make Shek O a popular choice during summer months.
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