Sai Kung August 2021

FA MI LY | S UR FI N G | S E A FOO D | T KO

hongkongliving.com

August 2021

GO WITH THE FLOW

Explore the best waterfalls in the New Territories

Surf’s up Meet Tap Mun’s surfboard shaper, Chris Tilbe

Under the sea A beginners’ guide to scuba diving in Sai Kung

CONTENTS — 08/ 21

16

COVER STORY The best waterfalls in the New Territories

4 PEOPLE

Sai Kungers out and about

6 THE PLANNER

What’s on this August

8 NEWS

What’s going on in your backyard?

10 LOCAL

Check into Sai Kung’s new hotel

11 FIVE MINUTES WITH..

Chris Tilbe, founder of Makara Surf

15 POLICE BLOTTER

Senior Inspector Ron Yung talks crime

20 DINING

Sai Kung’s top seafood restaurants

24 SPORTS

Scuba diving in Hong Kong 101

Get salty at Sai Kung’s salt pans

32 PETS

Dr Pauline Taylor answers your pet questions

33 IN THE GARDEN

William James Tutcher F.L.S. on what to plant this August

36 DIRECTORY For all your Sai Kung needs

26 NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE Explore Tseung Kwan O

28 MUST HAVES

31 SECRETS

31

It’s time to go back to school

30 HOROSCOPES What do the stars hold for you

this month?

16

8

24 6

4

32 “Sometimes, it’s hard to tell how fast the current’s moving until you’re headed over a waterfall” - Kimberly McCreight

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editor’s letter It’s been a busy month at Sai Kung Magazine. To kick things off I had the pleasure of joining James Ross on the RTHK Radio 3 Morning Brew show to talk about everything going on in Sai Kung this summer (before the black rainstorm and two typhoons put a damper on our plans).

Secondly, Sai Kung Magazine is back online!

We recently launched our new website, saikung.com and can’t wait to keep you updated on all the goings-on around town.

Now onto this month’s magazine. Since it’s been raining (a lot) the waterfalls are overflowing, making it the perfect time to see them in their full glory. We’ve rounded up the best falls in the New Territories to cool off this summer (page 16).

Speaking of summer, we interviewed Sai Kung’s very own surfer dude Chris Tilbe (page 11). While he is currently spending time in his hometown, his Tap Mun Island shop is still going strong with plans to open a second soon.

And finally, the new hotel will be opening this month. After years of delays, WM Sai Kung is set to be the town’s latest attraction. We take a peek inside (page 10).

With so much going on we appreciate the time you take reading and supporting our magazine each month.

Editorial Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Features Editor Cheyelene Fontanilla, cheyelene@hongkongliving.com Senior Writer Charmaine Ng, charmaineng@hongkongliving.com Dining Editor Amber Lai, amber@hongkongliving.com

Design Senior Graphic Designer Vicky Lam, vicky@hongkongliving.com Assistant Graphic Designer Natalie Cheung, natalie@hongkongliving.com

Sales & Marketing

Director of Content Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Partnership Manager Debbie Ky, debbie@hongkongliving.com Elaine Li, elaine@hongkongliving.com Events Manager Pranali Gupta, pranali@hongkongliving.com

Publisher

Matt Eaton, matt@hongkongliving.com

Founding Director

things we love this month...

Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com

Local businesses

Contact us Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772

Last month three businesses run by local Sai Kung ladies, including The Bali Box, Aphrodite Mulberry Silk and Vino - Artisan Italian Wine joined together for a night of wine, shopping and socialising. Keep your eyes peeled for any upcoming events and support local businesses at the thehivesaikung.com.hk

Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 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

Sustainable shoes

hongkongliving.com

The fast fashion industry is a continuous problem for the environment so Hong Kong resident Ben Hui decided it was time to change. He spent years researching sustainable alternatives for footwear and launched the first plant-based sneaker under his brand LONO this year. lonowear.com

talk@hongkongliving.com

Covid-19 update

As Sai Kung Magazine goes to print we have done our best to keep our content as accurate and up-to-date as possible, but life under Covid-19 regulations means things tend to change, often from day-to-day. Please check with local businesses for operation hours and services available and remember, stay safe.

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@hongkongliving

facebook.com/SaiKungMagazine

HONG KONG Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Magazine 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 Living Ltd 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 publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any way, part or format without written permission from the publisher.

SAIKUNG.COM SAI KUNG | 3

people

Snaps from Sai Kung

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say cheese

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planner

AUG 29

Hong Kong Living Summer Kids Carnival Enjoy an afternoon packed with exciting activities including dance classes from Sky Dance Avenue and Move for Life, interactive workshops and bowling. Dress up in your best Hawaiian attire for a chance to win great prizes. 11am-4pm. $50. Tikitiki Bowling Bar, 4/F, Centro, 1A Chui Tong Road, Sai Kung. hongkongliving.com/shop

outdoor recreational activities including a series of 3D summer smileys, light maze and handicraft workshops. Free. 9 Lung Wo Road, Central. summerfest-centralharbourfront.hk

UNTIL AUG 31 Hebe Haven Yacht Club photography competition

THROUGHOUT AUG Friendly Fridays Celebrate the end of the week with Tikitiki Bowling Bar’s Friendly Friday deal. Adults can enjoy two hours of bowling and free-flow drinks for just $199. 9pm-11pm. tikitiki.hk

UNTIL AUG 6 SummerFest SummerFest returns to the Central Harbourfront Event Space to provide Hongkongers with a wide range of large-scale

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Submit your best sailing photos for a chance to win some water sport themed prizes and be displayed in the Club Restaurant. The results will be announced in early September. hhyc.org.hk

AUG 3 Treasures from the Moscow Kremlin Museum - Private tour An arranged tour on a day when the museum is closed, showcasing a range of weapons, holy relics, ceremonial apparel, armour and decorative items from 16th to 18th Century Russia. 11am-12pm. $150. Hong Kong Heritage Museum, 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin. heritagemuseum.gov.hk

what’s on AUG 13-15 ALICE

AUG 26 - 29 Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong

Get ready for a wild ride down the rabbit hole with Hong Kong Ballet’s latest performance, ALICE (in wonderland). With captivating costumes by Cirque du Soleil designer Liz Vandal, this show is set to be one of their most eye-catching yet. 7.30pm. $90. Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. hkballet.com

The Affordable Art Fair is back, showcasing over a thousand contemporary artworks from 40 local and international galleries.

Workshops and tours are available. Times vary. $120. Hall 1E, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. affordableartfair.com

AUG 28 Midsummer Race part 2

Photo: Hong Kong Ballet

The second installment of the Midsummer Race has been scheduled for those that couldn’t make the first. Race across Shing Mun Reservoir in a range of age categories from junior to veteran. 3pm. $220. Shing Mun Reservoir Main Dam, Lower Shing Mun Road, Kam Shan. xterace.com

AUG 27 - 29 Hong Kong Wedding Fair Divided into eight themed zones, this fair offers collections of wedding products and services for newly engaged couples. 128pm. $20. Hall 3, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. wedding-show.com

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news

Planning permission resubmitted for Sha Ha Archaeological Site

The Sai Kung Town Planning Board has received an updated planning application from New World Development, for land near a site of historical importance in Sha Ha. Covering 3,000 square metres, the Sha Ha archaeological site was discovered in 1996 and features artefacts dating back to the Late Neolithic period and Bronze Age, along with relics from the Han, Song and Ming dynasties.

Located in an already built-up area on the Tai Mong Tsai Road, New World Development Group have submitted their proposal for a new residential project, which would dramatically increase the number of homes available in the region. If approved, the project would construct 15 residential buildings over an area covering 59,263 square metres. These towers, which would each stand four to ten floors tall, would be home to 972 individual units. The application also includes plans for a clubhouse and 816 parking spaces.

New World’s previous application, submitted in 2018, was rejected in June last year due to concerns for the neighbouring archaeological site.

In response, the new plan has reduced the number of buildings in the new proposal from 86 to 15.

Savings on longhaul bus fares The Kowloon Motor Bus Company (KMB), has rolled out a new Regional Short-journey Sectional Fare Scheme between Sai Kung and Tseung Kwan O. Passengers with an Octopus card can enjoy budget fares on 16 different KMB routes, starting from just $4. Sai Kung is the second region in Hong Kong to adopt the scheme, following its success in the north–west New Territories of Tuen Mun, Yuen Long and Tin Shui Wai. One such service that’s sure to be a hit with local residents is Route 94, which connects Sai Kung to Wong Shek Pier. KMB have confirmed a new sectional fare of just $6 for the journey.

Simply tap the card on the onboard validator before alighting and enjoy a discounted trip.

Registration open for $5,000 consumption vouchers for permanent residents The Hong Kong government has officially launched a new scheme that means free money for permanent residents and some HKID holders. Each eligible individual can receive a $5,000 consumption voucher.

Accepted payment methods under this scheme are Alipay HK, WeChat Pay HK, Tap & Go and Octopus. The $5,000 consumption voucher can be used at retail shops, market

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stalls, department stores, supermarkets, convenient stores, restaurants and fast food shops. Some recreational facilities, beauty salons and public transport are also open as long as they accept the agreed payment methods. This means everything from Sasa, Mannings and McDonald’s to Fortress, Broadway and even Gucci, Dior or Chanel.

Applications must be submitted by August 14.

in your backyard

Sai Kung waters became a little safer last month, as officials confirmed an upgrade project is now underway in the fleet of vessels used for offshore policing and rescue operations. A total of 11 new craft were officially launched on June 18 during a ceremony at Joss House Bay in Sai Kung. The new additions to the Sai Kung Marine Police include two amphibious hovercraft, eight multi-mission interceptors and a high-speed training boat. Sai Kung can expect to see 124 launches and smaller support craft put into service within the next few years.

Sai Kung author takes aim at property injustice Peter G de Krassel is a well-known member of the Sai Kung community.

Last month he published his fifth book, Custom Maid Backspin for New World Disorder, proposing major reforms to laws governing rental property in Hong Kong.

A contemporary social commentator, columnist, landlord and environmental activist, de Krassel has dedicated his career to tackling systemic injustice and highlighting the hypocrisies at the heart of society. In Hong Kong, he sees extortionate rent as a dragon that must be slayed.

“One of our landlords demanded a 120 percent increase last year, which propelled me to write this book,” said de Krassel in a recent statement. The book will be released in stages, one chapter at a time starting on July 13.

It will then become available in its entirety from April 2022 onwards, all

Credit: Mark Caparosa

Sai Kung Marine Police launch new fleet

proceeds from this year will support the PetsCentral Animal Welfare Foundation.

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local

Check into Sai Kung’s new hotel

After years of delays WM Sai Kung will open this August. Christopher Alexander reports.

After years of delay, Sai Kung’s second hotel WM Sai Kung will be opening its doors to guests this August. Located on Tai Mong Tsai Road, the new five-storey hotel from WM covers a total area of around ​​ 2,800 square metres in Sai Kung’s beautiful waterfront area.

The hotel will feature ocean views, multiple dining options, eye-catching decor and an open-air bathtub in every room. The property also has a rooftop infinity pool and a garden terrace where guests can enjoy uninterrupted sea views.

With a total of 260 guest rooms, the hotel has six different room configurations: Superior, Deluxe Terrace, Deluxe Sea View Terrace, Premium Private Garden, Special Sea View Terrace and Special Sea View Private Garden. These rooms feature either private gardens or terraces with sea views; all come with an open-air bath as standard.

The hotel itself is bathed in natural light, thanks to elegant floor-to-ceiling windows.

Interiors combine stylish, minimalist décor, while eye-catching architecture contrasts natural, earthy elements with futuristic, almost space-age design.

When the sun sets, WM Sai Kung’s

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collection of restaurants spark into life – cooking up a mix of local culinary delights and classic international fare in at least four different outlets, with indoor and outdoor seating available.

Owned by the Shaw Group and managed

by Rosedale Hotel Jiwei (also known as Greater Bay Area Fusion Power Holdings), the WM Sai Kung Hotel has been fully booked since its opening.

five minutes with

Five minutes with Chris Tilbe Nicole Slater meets the founder and eco-surf board shaper at Makara Surf

Chris Tilbe’s passion for the surfing world began when his friend’s dad introduced him to windsurfing on Vancouver Island in the early 1990s. Since then his passion for the sport has grown with the creation of his own surf brand, the Makara Surf Company.

While he is now living his dream, Tilbe originally moved to Hong Kong for a co-op job placement during his degree. After graduating he returned to the city in 2002 working between Guangzhou and Hong Kong before settling permanently in 2005.

Tilbe put his surfing passions aside and focused on his career as a consultant for nearly ten years before deciding it was time to get back on the board. “I registered Makara in 2014 with the intention to produce my own boards by hand in the most responsible way that I could. I started

shaping boards and they turned out pretty good and so I just kept going with it,” he says.

Starting out with a workshop in Fo Tan, Tilbe eventually moved to Tap Mun Island in 2017 where he began making waves in the sustainable surfboard market. “Like any decision we make, we need to not only consider the cost to our bank account but also the cost to the environment,” he says.

“The average surfboard maker creates more waste than the board itself. They can easily produce over 10Ib of waste for a 6Ib surfboard. By focusing on efficient material usage and responsible disposal of excess materials, you can easily get that waste

weight down. My goal is to reach 1 percent for the weight of the waste in comparison to the weight of the final surfboard.”

His workshop and boards have gained local and international interest, resulting in plans to open a second workshop in his hometown on Vancouver Island. “The original plan was that I would set-up a workshop on this side of the Pacific and then spend my time between Tap Mun and Vancouver Island,” he says. But like many business stories this past year, things did not go quite as planned for Tilbe.

“The pandemic has made it difficult for me to return to Tap Mun and my progress on the second workshop is extremely slow.

I spent last year renovating a 1947 log cabin to make it somewhat liveable and this year switched over to the workshop.” But his original workshop remains in the safe hands of his colleague, Jess who keeps the shop open for repairs and accessories.

While navigating through the pandemic has been a challenge, it has given Tilbe the valuable time to assess his priorities, “about three years ago I realised that the more time I spend away, the fewer people that meant something to me are still around when I visit.

I’ve spent the last 19 years abroad and now my mother is 78, I should probably spend more time closer to her,” he says.

“Tap Mun Island will always be the home of the Makara Surf Company and I have my whole life still ahead for me to be in Hong Kong. But for now, it means regular trips between the two places when we can finally start travelling again.”

Follow his journey on Youtube at youtube.com/makarasurf

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on patrol

Senior inspector Ron Yung reports on recent cases around town

Disappearing act Last month a 40-year-old man bought a smart watch via Facebook for $600. After making the payment, he could no longer reach the point of contact and reported it to police on July 11.The case is still under investigation.

Unpawful behaviour A 43-year-old woman was walking her dog on the roof of a building on Man Nin Street, when a man began berating her for failing to keep the dog on a leash. An argument ensued and the man took hold of the woman’s arms and allegedly hit her thigh. A witness called the police. The case is still under investigation.

Look both ways On June 21 a boy, aged eight, ran onto the zebra crossing on Fuk Man Road. A vehicle failed to stop in time and the boy was knocked down, sustaining an injury to his elbow. The police were called and the boy and his mother were taken to Tseung Kwan O Hospital for treatment.

Petty prank On June 19, a 49-year-old female, the owner of a kiosk on Sharp Island, returned to her shop to find that the keyholes on four door padlocks had been filled with glue. She reported it to the police, but there was no indication or evidence that could help determine the culprit.

A yacht hoax A woman found an Instagram account promoting affordable yacht rentals in Sai Kung.

After communicating with the yacht owner on Whatsapp, she transferred $5,000 via FPS, agreeing to meet on July 1 at 1.45pm. By June 30, the contact was no longer reachable. The woman reported the case to the police.

Faulty footing On the morning of July 7, a 37-year-old female went hiking to Sheung Luk Stream with a friend. Upon their Burglary prevention: • • •

Secure doors and windows Activate anti-burglary measures Call 999 if you encounter a suspicious person

arrival at the stream, she slipped on a rock and fell two metres, landing in the water. Her friend called the police and she was airlifted to PYNEH in a conscious state. She was admitted for observation and treatment at 4pm.

What’s happening at sea Unfortunate diving incident On the afternoon of June 30, a male reported his friend missing at Tai Long Sai Wan. The Marine Police conducted a search and rescue operation and at 2.58pm a diver from the Fire Services Department spotted a person underwater. The man was certified dead at Tseung Kwan O Hospital.

Too hot to handle At 2pm on July 5 a male reported feeling dizzy and exhausted while kayaking at Hap Mun Bay. The Marine Police located and rescued the man, taking him to MEDIV base. He was later brought to Tseung Kwan O Hospital and treated for heat stroke.

Tough day on the water Another male and his friend reported feeling tired while kayaking on the afternoon of July 12. The Marine Police rescued the duo from Sheung Sze Wan and returned them safely back to shore.

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cover story

CHASING WATERFALLS

Nicole Slater explores the best secret waterfalls in the New Ter

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waterfalls

rritories SAI KUNG | 17

cover story Many Sai Kung residents talk of waterfalls and vow never to disclose their locations for fear of the weekend crowds descending to them. But we’ll let you in on a few secret spots to cool down this summer.

Sheung Luk Stream One of Hong Kong’s most popular and Instagrammable waterfalls is Sheung Luk Stream. Tucked away in the greenery of secluded Sai Wan Beach, this waterfall is made up of three connecting pools each offering a freshwater swimming pool and gushing streams. The overflowing rock pool at the top has become a must-see for visitors and locals, particularly in the summer months.

How to get there: From Sai Kung centre take bus 29R from Chan Man Street or a 25-minute taxi ride to Sai Wan Pavilion. Hike from Sai Wan Pavilion down to the beach then head across towards a narrow path leading into the jungle, after you leave the track you’ll come across a concrete bridge, walk over and find Sheung Luk stream to the right.

Hau Tong Kai Hidden in plain sight, this waterfall can be easy to miss as you walk along Sai Kung Country Park towards Hoi Ha. The half-natural, half-man-made rock pool is the perfect place for a refreshing swim after heavy rainfall. Head up the stream further into the overgrown jungle to discover a few more rock pools and streams sheltered from the road.

How to get there: Take bus 92 or green minibus 7 from Sai Kung Town Centre.

Alight at Hau Tong Kai. From the road you’ll notice a bridge with blue railings, cross this bridge over the dam and follow the path on your left to get to the first waterfall.

Bride’s Pool Taking its unique name from an old Chinese legend, Bride’s Pool is a magnificent tiered waterfall with a dark secret. Legend has it that a bride fell into the pool and drowned on her way to meet her groom. To this day, people report seeing her ghostly foot in the middle of the waterfall. But don’t let this put you off, this beautiful location makes for the perfect day out, with jungle trails and smaller waterfalls surrounding the location.

How to get there: From Sai Kung, take the 299x bus to Sha Tin Centre. From here hop onto the MTR to Tai Po Market Station and take minibus 275R straight to Bride’s Pool on weekends. There’s also free parking.

Ma Dai Stream Located up in the mountains by Ma On Shan, this unique waterfall overlooks some of the area’s tallest skyscrapers while still being surrounded by nature. Large rocks surround the pool and offer privacy, a place to sunbathe and a platform to dive into the cool waters. The pools vary in depth, getting deeper the higher up you venture.

How to get there: From Sai Kung, take bus 99 to Heng On and hop on the MTR one stop to Tai Shui Hang. Take exit B and walk five

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waterfalls minutes down Hang Tak Street, turn left when you get to a small manmade river between Tai Shui Hang Village and Chevalier Garden.

Luk Wu Country Trail This hike in Sai Kung Country Park will take you to not one, but three hidden waterfalls varying in depths. The first stream is just one kilometre into the trail and offers a fresh water pool for hikers to cool down in before continuing with the trail. The next two waterfalls are shallower but still offer dramatic views along the way.

How to get there: From Sai Kung centre take bus 29R from Chan Man Street or a 25-minute taxi ride to Sai Wan Pavilion. From Sai Wan Pavilion, walk back 100 metres along the road and take the steep steps up to the right to start the Luk Wu Country Trail.

Safety warning These waterfalls are natural locations that are unsupervised and do not have safety procedures. Always proceed with caution, and if you are unsure of the depth do not jump or swim.

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dining

Catch of the day

Kylie Chan rounds up Sai Kung’s best seafood restaurants Cheung Kee Located along the waterfront, Chuen Kee is an eye-catching seafood restaurant with golden decor with an alfresco seating area overlooking the water. Diners can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes made with freshly caught ingredients everyday.

Sing Kee As a one Michelin starred restaurant, Sing Kee has been offering fresh seafood from the waters of Sai Kung for the past 10 years.

Customers are able to enjoy Cantonese delights such as steamed garlic abalone, deep fried tofu and Mantis shrimp prepared by experienced chefs. A popular dish at Sing Kee is the cheesy lobster noodles with a twist, using rice vermicelli noodles instead of e-fu noodles.

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Big Fish Seafood and Grill If you’re dining with non-seafood lovers, Big Fish Seafood and Grill serves a range of other dishes including ribs and salads to cater to everyone’s preferences. The restaurant also has a special oyster promotion where diners can receive two glasses of prosecco free with every dozen oysters ordered.

seafood spots Thai Dao Enjoy Northern Thai food served by skilled Thai chefs along Sha Ha Beach. As well as classic Thai dishes including green curry and pad Thai, the restaurant also has an extensive seafood menu featuring mud crab, prawns, clams and mussels.

Loaf On Established in 2006, Loaf On was honoured a Michelin Star in 2010 for its unique technique and home-cooking recipes with fresh seafood. The signature chilli pepper crispy skin chicken is one of its most popular dishes so be sure to pre-order it when making a reservation.

Top Tip Camden Town While this may not be the seafood you were expecting, this British style restaurant serves up classic fish and chips which has remained their best selling dish for the past 14 years.

Fancy cooking some fresh seafood at home?

Head over to the Sai Kung Public Pier and buy the catch of the sea from local fishermen on their boats.

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dining

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nibbles

Dining news Momentai closes its doors Sai Kung’s beloved waterfront restaurant and bar Momentai, will be closing its doors on August 15. After four years of sundowners, the restaurant’s lease is up and while the team waits to hear the verdict on the location, they have to vacate the space until early next year.

But it’s not all bad news, the brand is excited to open a new concept, Graceland, in Mong Kok this September and will continue to operate

Joe-San next door. In an announcement on the restaurant’s Facebook page the team stated, “we hope to come back and we’re optimistic about our chances. However there are no guarantees so we all have to be fully prepared for the chance that the lease will be given to someone else. Thank you all so much for an incredible four years, it’s been a dream come true and hopefully we’ll be back to keep it going.”

Ali Oli’s launches mooncakes This year the popular bakery has joined forces with Local Hong Kong Artist, OH! You Made My Day, to create a limited-edition mooncake gift box. The set includes six flavours of mooncakes, three for humans and three for pet owners, including adzuki bean & tangerine peel, classic golden yolk, espresso walnut along with three chicken-based mooncakes.

The mooncakes will be available for delivery or collection from August 23 to September 23. alioli.com.hk

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sports

Underwater adventures A beginners’ guide to scuba diving in Hong Kong. By Nicole Slater With many of us missing our topical destinations this summer, you will be thrilled to know that you can still get your underwater fix in Hong Kong. While it’s not one of the world’s top scuba diving destinations, there is still plenty of marine life and seabeds to explore. Here is your guide to diving in Hong Kong.

When to dive Although you can drive all year round, the best times are from late March to early June and then again from September to early November. The warmer months can be affected by typhoons and prevailing southwest monsoons can bring in murk from the Pearl River to the west, which can dull the visibility. But on the up side the water temperature is mostly warm, making for an overall comfortable dive on a calm day. Be 24 | SAI KUNG

under the sea South China Diving Club

sure to plan ahead as good weather and a little luck are the main factors when it comes to scuba diving in Hong Kong.

Offering a range of programmes covering everything from knots and navigation to first aid and rescue techniques, South China Diving Club has something for all levels of divers. Founded by a group of avid divers in 1979, the club hopes to help their members become better divers. scdc.org.hk

Where to dive Po Toi Islands Just off of Stanley, Po Toi Island is a popular diving spot from March to May, as the surroundings are relatively untouched, making it a great spot for marine life.

The islands also feature interesting rock formations.

Perfect for beginners, Bluff Island offers plenty of marine life and even has a submerged car wreck which, according to local legend, was once used by smugglers.

The island makes for a great day trip location, with plenty to see in and out of the water.

Ninepin Islands A string of jewels in the crown of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, make up

Who to dive with Splash Hong Kong Located in Sai Kung, Splash Hong Kong offers a range of diving lessons and days out for beginners and professionals. The Splash Days out will take you to crystal clear waters around Sai Kung and includes lunch onboard and two dives throughout the day. splashhk.com

On a mission to promote sustainable, safe and environmentally friendly scuba diving, Diving Adventure started out as a dive shop in 1988 but quickly expanded to an educational centre. The company offers diving training and dive tours across Hong Kong. divinghk.com

What to spot:

Photo: Andy A. Lewis

Bluff Island

Diving Adventure

the Ninepin Islands. Divers can explore hexagonal columns of rock with underwater visibility stretching up to 17 metres.

Octopus, eels and even scorpionfish are often spotted here. Being an isolated sea mount, the currents can be quite a challenge, so this is best for divers with some experience.

Photo: Daiju Asuma

Chaetodon plebeius

Hong Kong grouper

Another spot that’s ideal for beginners is Sharp Island. Don’t let the name put you off: Sharp is a gently undulating tropical islet that’s home to warm, shallow waters and sheltered bays, protecting divers from open water currents.

Photo: Izuzuki

Sharp Island

Amblyeleotris japonica

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neighbourhood guide

Tseung Kwan O

Nicole Slater explores the ever-growing neighbourhood on the purple line Encompassing four MTR stations, Tseung Kwan O is one of nine new towns built on reclaimed land in southeastern New Territories. Here are our recommendations for how to explore this verdant and pet-friendly neighbourhood.

Where to go Tseung Kwan O waterfront promenade Stretching between Tseung Kwan O and Lohas Park, the waterfront promenade is the perfect place for a quiet stroll. Take in the panoramic views of the harbour or set up a picnic for a fun family day out.

Visit the Little Hawaii waterfalls If you fancy a little hike on your day out, the Little Hawaii Waterfall Trail is a 1-2 hour hike located by Tseng Lan Shue on Clearwater Bay Road. Travel up the stream and find multiple falls tucked away behind the city.

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High Junk Peak Looking for more of an adventure? High Junk Peak is a 6.4 kilometre hike which will take you up over the Clearwater Bay peninsula overlooking the city.

What to do Shop at East Point City Those who frequent Hang Hau MTR would

have walked past this centre on the way to the 101M. Head inside and you’ll find an array of local and international stores including everyone’s favourite Marks & Spencer.

Hop on your bike at the Hong Kong Velodrome Park The first-ever local indoor cycling facility that meets the standards of the International Cycling Union and is the perfect day out for the whole family. If you don’t have a bicycle, stop by the

tko bike rental company that caters to both adults and children.

Jump into Tseung Kwan O Swimming Pool As one of Hong Kong’s largest public swimming pools, this facility offers eight pools for all kinds of swimmers from children and professionals along with four giant water slides. What’s even better, the pool is only $8 per session.

Visit the spa Located in the Crowne Plaza, Sense of Touch day spa is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Occupying 6,500 square feet, the spa features Balinese inspired villa-style suites and provides full body treatments. senseoftouch.com.hk something for everyone. The restaurant also offers a discounted tea set from 3-6pm every Monday to Friday.

Chilli Lime Offering a unique combination of Indian, Thai and vegetarian cuisine, Chilli Lime will take your taste buds on a vacation (even if you can’t go). The restaurant also offers a two-course weekday lunch set starting from just $98. chillilime.com.hk

How to get there From Central, take the MTR Island Line and Tseung Kwan O Line to Tseung Kwan O Station.

Where to eat District 8 Overlook the Tathong Channel while tucking into a delicious selection of French classics and comfort food including escargots, double-baked cheese souffle and elevated steak and frites. The restaurant features both indoor and alfresco seating with a semi-covered alfresco patio. district8.com.hk.

Cielo You don’t have to go all the way to the island to enjoy a rooftop bar, Cielo Steakhouse & Bar offers city views over East Kowloon. Located on the 47th floor of the Crowne Plaza, the restaurant offers a wide selection of wines and cocktails along with a lunch and dinner menu. ihg.com

AMARE Bistro & Wine Transport yourself to Italy with AMARE Bistro & Wine’s waterfront restaurant. Serving up a range of handcrafted pizzas and pastas, the menu has

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must haves

Herschel Anchor Laptop Sleeve Hexagonal water based pen set

$330 from Herschel herschel.com.hk

$48 from muji muji.com.hk

Cool kids on the block

Organic bamboo kids face mask $110 from Bamboa bamboahome.com

Back to school essentials

Rainbow hardbound journal $160 from Bookazine bookazine.com.hk

Quilted personal planner 28 | SAI KUNG

$590 from Kikki.k kikki-k.com

back to school Brass ball point pen $230 from LOG-ON logon.com.hk

Beans pro 2 wireless earbuds $699 from the coopidea thecoopidea.com

Stainless steel water bottle $129 from Decathlon decathlon.com.hk

Leçons de choses pencil case $186 from Leçons de choses en.smallable.com

Plush sticker pack $22 from Typo cottonon.com

Make a list 3-pack notepad $119 from Typo cottonon.com

Moral Budd backpack mini $479 from LOG-ON logon.com.hk

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horoscope

Written in the stars Letao Wang, The Kingdom Healer shares his insights on what the stars hold for you this month thehealingkingdom.com

AQUARIUS You may feel a certain degree of dissatisfaction with your presentcircumstances. The future is approaching, but you are afraid that your beliefs have an irreversible change. This is not a bad thing, Aquarius. Accept change and all that comes with it. Attachment to old structures will only bring problems into your life.

TAURUS Personal relationships take relevance during this period. It will be easy for you to be objective and conciliatory with others, Taurus.

Therefore, do not shy away from necessary discussions. Listen to your heart’s desires and guide yourself through them to reach out to others.

LEO You will experience an aggressive and intolerant attitude toward other people, Leo. However, this may have to do with some dissatisfaction you are having with your life.

Try to change something within you to find inner balance again.

SCORPIO Your career and work-related matters will require your special attention. You may acquire a more senior position and have to carry numerous responsibilities that will leave you exhausted. However, do not be discouraged, Scorpio. What you cultivate today will be the fruits of tomorrow.

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PISCES This month is a time of intense transformation, Pisces. However, it will bring very positive consequences in your life. Relationships that are no longer beneficial will have to die and will leave fertile ground for new experiences. After this period, a much more powerful version of yourself will emerge.

GEMINI You tend to be a little scattered, Gemini, but the planetary alignment will encourage you to be thorough this time. Your rationality and analytical skills will be sharper than ever, which will help you to improve various aspects of your life.

VIRGO Your flexible thinking and perspicacity will help you grow in your workplace. This may result in more responsibilities than you had intended, but you will be more than willing to accept the challenge. Beware of excessive self-criticism and bouts of stress caused by the pursuit of perfectionism.

SAGITTARIUS It’s a time to venture into new creative projects, Sagittarians. If you were thinking of doing something with your group of friends, don’t hesitate to do so. The astral energies promote a propitious environment for group work and for embarking on new ventures.

Therefore, stop analysing it so much and go forward.

ARIES If you’re taking too much time making up your mind, you will never risk doing something new, Aries. The planetary alignment encourages you to let go of worries and trust your intuition. Remember that the more unexpected your reactions, the better your chances of improving your personal affairs.

CANCER It’s going to be a very intense month, Cancer.

You will have to face uncomfortable situations that you previously avoided. It may be painful, but the sooner you accept it, the more favourable your life will become. So embrace the process of change and focus on the future.

LIBRA The planetary configuration will stimulate your curiosity and your thirst for knowledge. It’s an ideal opportunity to resume your studies or to start a course. Your point of view is relevant, so don’t be afraid to share it with others. Be attentive to the events that arise during this season, as they will become important later on.

CAPRICORN Creative and artistic activities will be highlighted this month, Capricorn. If it’s not something you were interested in before, someone in your group of friends will get you on that path. You may resist at first, but then you’ll notice that you’re much more talented than you thought.

Photo: Hong Kong Tourism Board

secrets

Seasoned professionals Sai Kung salt farm keeps tradition alive. By Christopher Alexander Located just 15 minutes by boat from Sai Kung Pier, Yim Tin Tsai is the only place in Hong Kong that produces salt.

Measuring just 500 metres across and standing only 37 metres above sea level, Yim Tin Tsai (meaning ‘Little Salt Pan’ in Cantonese) was named by its first inhabitants; members of the Hakka tribe who arrived from Southern China in the seventeenth century and immediately saw its potential for producing salt (a rare and valuable commodity at the time).

However, by the early twentieth century, demand for the island’s produce – like the saltwater itself – had all but evaporated. By the 1980s, only four people remained on Tim Tin Tsai, by then more commonly known as ‘Ghost Island.’

After several decades of abandonment, a group of residents and volunteers decided to revive their history and restore the salt pans to working order. The island was back in business by 2013 and even earned an UNESCO protection status for its commitment to heritage.

Along with restoring the salt pans, the group also built a Salt and Light Preservation Centre, to conserve and promote the unique culture and ecology of the island. “Our priority is the revitalisation of the culture,” says David Ip, coordinator of the island’s preservation society. “We use traditional methods to do the salt production and respect the ancestors of Yim Tin Tsai.”

The traditional salt has given many visitors a chance to take a piece of Sai Kung

home with them after their trip. The salt has even become popular with gin fans after Hong Kong-based gin distillery, Two Moons Distillery, released a new gin made from local ingredients including a sachet of artisan sea salt from the island with every bottle.

Today, visitors can explore the area, take guided tours of the salt pans and purchase bottles of the iconic seasoning they produce.

A newly built seawater workshop also reveals the manufacturing process of sun-dried salt and lets visitors try their hand at the process for just $30.

How to get there To visit Yim Tin Tsai from Sai Kung Town, simply head down to the waterfront, where you’ll find the booth for the Yim Tin Tsai ferry at the western end. A return ferry ride costs around $60; the fare includes access to the island, its chapel and the salt pans.

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pets

Ask a vet

Dr Pauline Taylor on obesity in cats cat’s predatory instincts. Replace food treats with more interactive activities, such as extra play time or holding and petting.

Use food treat toys stuffed with normal daily diet, not treats and hide food around your home to make your cat search for the food.

How many calories should an average-sized cat usually have per day?

I never advise on calories/day in this general situation because I have seen too many pets starved because pet parents were following instructions given to them. The amount of food depends on many things including the brand/type of food and its ingredients and age species/type of cat and its life cycle.

If your cat is overweight, ask your vet for advice on an appropriate feeding regime to ensure they get enough nutrients, without being overfed.

My cat sits by her food bowl all day; how can I encourage her to do something else?

There could be a few reasons for this that are medically induced. Could it be the water she craves rather than the food? If you are dieting her you must be very careful she gets enough daily nutrients from the food you give her. It’s dangerous to try and make a cat lose weight too quickly. Slow and steady weight loss is what is important for cats.

Many charts are available to help define “fat cats” but in general, obesity in cats is defined as cats that are more than 30 percent over their ideal weight. You should be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily when you stroke their body lightly and you should clearly see a waistline when you look at them from above.

What are some of the health issues which come with obesity?

Being overweight generally means your cat will be less active and have a reduced quality

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of life and may reduce life expectancy as much as two years. Fat cats simply cannot groom themselves like they should while the extra weight plays havoc on aging joints.

Other weight-related illnesses exist including diabetes mellitus and urinary tract infections.

What exercises are good for my cat to lose weight?

Establish a regular and fun exercise routine.

Exercises involving moving objects for example a feather wand to stimulate the

Dr Pauline Taylor, Pets Central veterinarian.

marketplace

What to plant in August August weather facts Average high temperature: 32.2°C Average low temperature: 26.7°C Average rainfall days: 16.9 days

With the midsummer month’s dream forthcoming, August represents a meager cooldown from July’s peak sizzling weather, granted it’s still a tad too hot for most.

With social distancing still measures in place, there is no better time to tend to our gardens and enjoy the fresh air from the comfort of our own home.

The key practice this month is to inspect your plants or any diseased foliage for any plant diseases carried over by the heat and humidity then dispose of it properly. Like the month before, remember to use disinfectant fluid to protect your seedlings from pests. Monitor weeds as they compete with your plants for nutrients and water, and dig over all vacant ground in your garden to ensure good conditions for sowing seeds in the next few months.

Seeds of the following may be sown: mustard and cress, Chinese spinach, lettuce, sweet corn, Chinese green and white cabbage, celery, tomatoes and carrots. Short beans sown last month will also require staking.

From the hottest to the wettest month of the year, August carries over sudden showers and occasional typhoons shutting everything down.

However, as the saying goes, ‘You can’t have a rainbow without a little rain’. May this month reward you with a budding backdrop of captivating crops and flowers for your garden.

By William James Tutcher F.L.S. (1867-1920) Superintendent of Hong Kong Botanical Gardens.

Paraphrased from his seminal 1906 work Gardening for Hong Kong.

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marketplace

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To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772

marketplace

To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772

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directory

Sai Kung Back Page

Directory

AFCD

PHONE REPAIR: NEW TECHNOLOGY

SCHOOL: SHREWSBURY

afcd.gov.hk 2708 8885 Agriculture, fisheries, management of country parks and conservation projects

2407 2377k Cheap repairs and phone accessories

shrewsbury.edu.hk 2480 1500 A British international school providing preschool and primary education

DISTRICT COUNCIL districtcouncils.gov.hk 3740 5200

POLICE (SAI KUNG HQ) police.gov.hk 3661 1630 24/hr report room

SNAKE IN THE HOUSE Dave Willott on 999 There’s nothing he can’t handle

RENTOKIL FITNESS: SALLGPILOXING facebook.com/SallyGPiloxing 9529 0477 A combination of pilates, boxing and dance

HAIRDRESSER: TALA'S HAIR AND BEAUTY talashair.com 2335 1694 Luxury salon owned and managed by Mojdeh Kazemi

HOMEVET homevet.com.hk 9860 5522 Dedicated mobile veterinary service

KEY CUTTER: TUNG TAI KEY CUT tungtai26@gmail.com 63235232 Locksmith, electrician and plumber too!

LOST DOG? SAI KUNG STRAY FRIENDS saikungstrayfriends.com Call Narelle: 9199 2340 Group of volunteers who rescue stray, abandoned and sick dogs

MECHANIC: HP CARS SERVICING AND REPAIRS hpcarshk.com 2791 4145

NEED HELP: ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS aa-intergroup.org 9073 6922

OWN A HOME: OKAY.COM okay.com 2102 0888 Expert real estate services

PEST CONTROL: BIOCYCLE biocycle.com.hk 3575 2575 Fighting pests with safe and ecological products

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rentokil.com/hk 5803 3055

RESURRECTION CHURCH resurrection.org.hk 2358 3232 An English-speaking Anglican Church

SPEEDBOATS: BLUE FLAG Miss Ma: 9489 3297 Wherever you want to go, they’ll take you!

TAXI LOST PROPERTY td.gov.hk 1872 920 Helping you reunited with your belongings

VET: PETS CENTRAL pets-central.com 2792 0833

beaches

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