Sai Kung Magazine December2011

DECEMBER 2011

Six chefs a-cooking Five ski resorts Four storey mansion Three choirs a-singing Too many Santas One sweet escape And a partridge in a pear tree

T ES !

G er IG v B ee ur u O iss

BEST RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY INTERIOR CHINA No.6 Members Village, Chung Shan Hot Spring Golf Club

December 2011

the planner 4 What’s Happening in December 8 Book now Letters 10 Hey, Mr Postman Have your say News 12 What’s going on?

The latest from our neck of the woods Local 14 Shots from above Sai Kung’s favorite new book hits the shelves...and the streets Interview 16 Mara McCaffery Sai Kung local and orangutan saviour.

Sai Kung diary 18 Our new columnist talks life in Sai Kung.

Feature 20 All about Christmas From real trees to turkeys to fruit cakes, we’ve got you covered Hikes

Interiors 38 Winter warmers The latest in cosy homeware Education

28 Dragon’s Back Jackie Peers slays Hong Kong’s famous trail... outdoors 30 Paddle battle A recap of the annual Dragon Run. Eating 32 Turkey town Where to grab a festive feast in Sai Kung.

Property 34 Classy Glass Let it be light

40 Garden House A leaner, greener way to learn.

Family 42 The Gate Plus other family news

Gardening 50 In bloom Liz Remington on keeping orchids.

Marketplace 51 Your guide to shops and services Cool stuff to buy and do.

53 Bird at my window Local author David Diskin on Hong Kong birds.

Health & Beauty 44 Party pretty Getting ready for the season Pets 46 Puppy presents Dr Carmel on the gift that keeps on giving.

Travel 48 Ski resorts ...they’re closer than you think!

Classifieds 59 Local property, holiday lets And loads of other random stuff.

Last Orders 62 Bah, humbug.

Plus photo competition.

time you enjoy wasting, is not time wasted.

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planner

happening in December

DEC 2-4 Hong Kong International Boat Show Join the yachties cruising around the sailing boats, speedboats and superyachts that converge on Marina Cove for this annual carnival celebrating the finest property afloat. Club Marina Cove.

Picture: Graham Uden

Nov 30 - DEC 11 Cirque Mechanics Birdhouse Factory

Dec 1 - Jan 1 Ice Wonderland

FROM NOV 19 Disney’s Sparkling Christmas

Dec 1 - 4 Hong Kong Open

“Exceptional! Eye-catching! Excellent!” gushed the New York Times about this quirky circus in a factory setting. Tickets $295-$795 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Disneyland becomes a winter wonderland for the Christmas season with Main Street transformed into a delicious fairytale Gingerbread Village.

Watch out for the Let It Snow Christmas parade and a special themed Parade of the Toys.

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Ice skating under the Christmas lights. Skate hire $15-$30. Centenary Garden, East Tsim Sha Tsui, info@discoverhongkong.com.

The biggest golfing event of the year.

Participants include Padraig Harrington, Colin Montgomerie and José María Olazábal.

Tickets $120-$500 from www.cityline.com.hk, 2111 5333 and branches of Parsons Music.

Dec 2 Christmas Charity Quiz

Get your thinking caps on for this annual quiz, with brain-teasers, spot prizes, Call My Bluff and great food. 7pm, Garden Bar, Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Pak Sha Wan. Tickets $400, with profits to Operation Santa Claus. Reservations at saikungchristmasquiz@gmail.com.

Dec 2 Carols Under the Stars

Katterwall’s Community Carols will be bringing goodwill to all revellers in the Lan Kwai Fong amphitheatre. Song sheets from Baby Buddha, $60. Profits to Operation Santa Claus. 7.30pm, Lok Hing Lane Sitting Out Area, Central.

december Dec 10 The Snowman & The Bear

Dec 2-4, 8-11 Robin Hood, The Panto

City Chamber Orchestra performs a live accompaniment to the lovely Raymond Briggs animations. Hong Kong City Hall, Central. Tickets $150-$350 from Urbtix, 2734 9009, www.urbtix.hk.

It just wouldn’t be Christmas without the Hong Kong Players’ annual pantomime, complete with outrageous dame, slapped thighs and villains you’re allowed to boo. Oh yes, you can!

Tickets $250-$330 from www.urbtix.hk, 2111 2999.

Dec 10, 11 Clockenflap Music & Arts Festival

Hong Kong’s best family festival is back bigger than ever with five stages, film tent and children play area. Better still, this year it is free. info www. clockenflap.com

Dec 2-3 Punchline Comedy Club

Giving guests the giggles are Gina Yashere, James Dowdeswell and Will Hodgson. Tickets reduced to a recession-busting $240 from www. cityline.com.hk, 2111 5333, or Duetto, 2/F Sun Hung Kai Centre, Wan Chai, 2598 1222.

dec 3 Moonwalker

Thousands of walkers link arms on an overnight charity hike from Wan Chai Sports Ground to Repulse Bay Beach for ORBIS, a charity performing life-changing eye operations. 10.30pm6.30am, www.orbis.org.hk.

dec 3 Winter garage sale & market

Get ready to rummage for pre-loved goodies in the best garage sale in Sai Kung, with proceeds going to Operation Santa Claus. 9.30am-1.30pm, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clearwater Bay Road. Details from Jean Hudson on 9045 5942, gujean@ust.hk.

Dec 3-4, 10-11, 17-18 Black Kite Festival

Find out more about Sai Kung’s black kite population at these informational weekends, with telescopes set up along the waterfront. Friends of Sai Kung, www. friendsofsaikung.org.

Dec 9 Thrill Mountain Opens

Hear them scream at Ocean Park’s new themed area, with five rides, including a “floor-less” rollercoaster that leaves you dangling over the South China Sea. Shivers.

Details at www.oceanpark.com.hk.

Dec 9 Ladies Bubbly Lunch

It’s an all-girl affair at Hebe Haven Yacht Club.

Members and guests only. Tickets $198 from HHYC, 2719 8300, www.hhyc.org.hk.

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Dec 11 Carols in the Square dec 3 SKIP Christmas Fair

A fun-filled day with loads of activities, including arts & crafts, barbecue and bar, children’s show and a visit from Santa. Family tickets $150, or $50 a head. 10am-3pm, 159 Che Keng Tuk Road, Sai Kung, 2791 7354, www.skip.edu.hk.

Dec 7 Christmas List Shopping Walk

The List magazine’s night of special discounts, refreshments and private shopping in Central and Sheung Wan. 6pm-10.30pm, tickets $100 from thechristmaslist@asia-city.com.hk.

dec 8 Babushka late-night shopping

Christmas shopping made easy with wine and nibbles. 5pm-9pm, Babushka, Shop 12, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2791 9070, babushkahongkong@gmail.com.

Dec 8-9 A Glee-ful Kassia Christmas

The Kassia Men and Women Chorus does the Glee thing. Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre Theatre. Details from 2575 3931, 6149 3558, info@katterwall.com, www.katterwall.com.

Dec 9 KGV Christmas Carol Concert & Fair

King George V School is combining its annual fair with its brilliant Christmas concert. Carols, mulled wine, great food, games and shopping.

Free entry and open to all. 5pm-9pm; concert 7.30pm-8.15pm. 2 Tin Kwong Road, Ho Man Tin, 2711 3029, www.kgv.edu.hk. www.katterwall.com.

Join your friends and neighbours (because they're all bound to be there) for the annual evening of carols in the square, with performances from the children of New Song Christian Kindergarten and local choirs. 6pm, Waterfront Park, Sai Kung. Organised by Resurrection Church, www.resurrection.org.hk.

Dec 14 Christmas Gift Showcase

The mother of all Christmas fairs. 10am-8pm, Grand Ballroom, Conrad Hotel, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, 2521 3838.

Dec 15-18 The Wind in the Willows

Kenneth Grahame’s classic novel is brought to life by the talented kids of Faust International Youth Theatre. Join Ratty, Mole and Mr Toad on a journey through the Wild, Wild Wood, up the river and back again. Tickets $220 (children) and $270 (adults) from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Dec 16 Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir

Annual performance in the Garden Bar at Hebe Haven Yacht Club, with mulled wine and mince pies. Free for members and guests. 7.30pm8.30pm, HHYC, Pak Sha Wan, 2719 8300, www.hhyc.org.hk.

Dec 16 ESF Schools Close

The end of a long term for ESF students. Spring term begins January 3.

Dec 17 Little Hands Christmas Party

Drop by to say hello to this new creative workshop for children that opens this month. 60 Sun On Village, Sai Kung.

december Dec 24 Midnight Mass

Live choral performance and Anglican service at St John’s Cathedral, Central, 11.30pm. Details at www.stjohnscathedral.org.hk.

Dec 25 Christmas Day

He’s been!

Stockings, turkey and all the trimmings.

Dec 26 Boxing Day

A day off to play with your presents.

Dec 26 Treasure Hunt

Annual sailing fun day in Port Shelter for yachties, ending with a beach barbecue. Details from Hebe Haven Yacht Club, 2719 8300, www.hhyc.org.hk.

Dec 27 public holiday Dec 31 New Year’s Eve

Goodbye 2011... hello 2012.

Dec 31 Disco’s Revenge

Hed Kandi presents its own extravagant and funky spin on the New Year’s Eve ball. Dress code: disco chic & retro glam. The Great Room, W Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon.

Tickets $1,480-$1,880 from 8201 1027, www.entertainingasia.com.

Dec 16-24 The Nutcracker

Proving you can never have too much of a good thing, the Hong Kong Ballet returns for the 15th anniversary of its annual Christmas performance. Cultural Centre, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui.

Tickets $140-$1,000 from Urbtix, 2111 5999, www.urbtix.hk.

Book now Jan 10-29 Kidsfest 2012

Dec 31 Red, White & Blue Ball

Live shows of three popular children’s books: Stick Man, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.

Tickets $250-$395 from www.hkticketing. com, 3128 8288.

Hang out the bunting for the New Year’s Eve Ball at Hebe Haven Yacht Club, complete with piper at midnight, live music and 2am breakfast buffet.

Tickets $1,118, or $388 late-night, from HHYC, 2719 8300, www.hhyc.org.hk.

Dec 31 Prohibition Party

Hebe One O One channels a 1920s speakeasy, with unlimited supply of booze (don't worry, it's legal) and a slap-up five course dinner ($798).

Open bar from 7pm till close. 112 Pak Sha Wan, 2335 5515, info@101.com.hk.

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Jan 28-Mar 8 40th Hong Kong Arts Festival Jan 5 Scissor Sisters Live

Do you feel like dancing? AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $580-$680 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Get your bookings in early for the annual bonanza of cultural events. This year’s highlights include The Importance of Being Earnest, Cosi Fan Tutti, A Midsummer’s Night Dream ballet and The World of Wearable Art. Details and tickets at www. hk.artsfestival.org.

letters

have your say

No dinner for dogs

Sai Kung stand-off

Regarding "Doggy dining": Can anyone be seriously suggesting that dogs being fed as humans at restaurants is hygienic?

What utter nonsense. One would assume that prior to dining in restaurants, the dogs in question would have been running around poking their noses in, and trampling on, goodness knows what before sitting at the table and enjoying a nice bowl of pasta or burger. Seriously, there could be nothing more unhygienic and such conduct is disgusting.

Restaurants in Sydney, Australia, where I hail, were previously banned from catering for dogs. This has recently been amended to allow dogs at alfresco outlets. However, they must be leashed and they are strictly prohibited from eating although they are allowed water. This, I would suggest, is a more realistic approach.

Restaurants are in danger of losing regular customers over this.

Laurence Lau Po-kong

With regard to Sing’s comments comparing dogs to smokers last month, I found myself watching a stand-off over dim sum at the Beach Resort recently.

At one alfresco table sat a couple of smokers; at the next table, downwind, an elderly couple with family members and a small fluffy dog.

The two tables spent the next hour shooting dirty looks at each other. The smokers looked disapprovingly as the elderly lady placed the dog on a chair and fed it (from its own bowl) on the table. The senior grumbled and waved her hand at the smoke that occasionally wafted her way. Both had cause to complain, but neither had a leg to stand on.

Not Sai Kung dining’s finest moment.

Liz Richards

Eating elsewhere I have to agree with Sing and wholeheartedly support his comments. I have two dogs and they never sit on the chairs and eat with me. Neither should anyone else's, especially at public restaurants. Any place that allows this no longer gets my business.

Stuart Morton

Please email your letters to letters@saikung.com. We may edit for length.

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news

in the know

It’s a shore thing

Friends of Sai Kung (FSK) joined the annual Hong Kong International Coastal Cleanup last month, clearing flotsam and jetsam from a beach at Tsam Chuk Wan. Fourteen volunteers filled 20 large plastic bags with assorted debris, including plastic bottles, pieces of polystyrene, 11 odd shoes, three tyres and even a radio.

“We chose Tsam Chuk Wan because it is not normally cleaned by any government department,” says the group’s Carol Biddell.

The cleanup is part of FSK’s ongoing campaign, which earlier this year saw volunteers teaming up with the Food and Environmental Health Department to clean the coast from Tai Wan to Sha Ha. Next up is To Kwa Peng, between Wong Shek Pier and Chek Keng in Sai Kung Country Park. To join the cleanup crew, contact Biddell at carolfsk@gmail.com or 6531 8215.

Green light for Hiram’s Highway expansion

Sai Kung bikers down in the dumps

The government has authorized part of the planned expansion to Hiram's Highway, namely a dual carriageway between Clearwater Bay Road and Marina Cove, and a two-lane two-way access road between Hiram’s Highway and Ho Chung Road. The Modification Plan, published on November 11, can be viewed in detail at the Sai Kung Government Offices – at both the Public Enquiry Service Centre (2/F) and the District Lands Office (3/F) – 34 Chan Man Street, Sai Kung.

Cyclists are being warned against leaving their bikes unattended in Sai Kung after a recent clean-up operation saw dozens of two-wheelers being removed without notice from public areas.

This is despite the lack of a designated bicycle parking area in Sai Kung town.

Confiscated bikes wind up in a dump on Hiram’s Highway, near the junction with Clearwater Bay Road, which has grown to epic proportions. As there is no system for reclaiming the confiscated bikes from the government, they will eventually be auctioned in bulk to scrapmetal dealers.

Friends of Sai Kung chairman Guy Shirra, who has been in contact with the Transport

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Department requesting the provision of bicycle parking areas, was told in an email from the department’s K.L. Ma that “cycling activities are not popular in the area”. Which is news to many of us.

Ma states: “It is our current practice that, for places where no cycle track is provided and cycling is not popular, we normally do not provide any designated cycle parking facilities.”

However, he says there is a long-term plan to provide a bike park near Sha Kok Mei on Tai Mong Tsai Road on completion of the muchdelayed cycle track to Ma On Shan. There is no news yet as to when that might be.

Meanwhile, keep an eye on your bicycle.

local Publisher & Executive Editor Tom Hilditch Tom@saikung.com Editorial Jane Steer Jane@saikung.com Coco Marett Coco@saikung.com Adele Rosi Adele@saikung.com Art Direction Eric Luk design@saikung.com Accounts Clara Chan Accounts@saikung.com Advertising Heung Sai ads@saikung.com Distribution Barnaby Ding vip@saikung.com This month's contributors Graham Uden Aani Andriani Denise Li Dr Carmel Taylor MVB Jackie Peers Liz Remington Iain Lafferty Nikki Tallentire Zahira Danda David Diskin Printer Gear Printing 1/F, Express Industrial Bldg 43 Heung Yip Road Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Published by Fast Media PO Box 33093 Sheung Wan Post Office, Hong Kong.

Sai Kung is published by Fast Media 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. Sai Kung 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 pubishers.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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Photo book takes wing

Graham Uden’s new book of aerial photography, Above Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay, is flying off the shelves.

Award-winning photographer Graham Uden was in town last month to sign copies of the first ever aerial photo book of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay. The first copy was sold to a long-time Australian resident looking to send his mum a special present this Christmas. “It is the perfect gift to send home to my mum,” he said. “It captures everything my family and I love about living in Sai Kung – the wonderful boating, the mountains, the fresh air, the space and natural beauty of the place. Plus there are great aerial pictures of my house. I know she will enjoy showing it to her friends.”

Another early copy was bought by the Parent Teacher Association at Clearwater Bay School as a thank you gift for departing principal David Fitzgerald. “It’s a great souvenir - really the perfect memento of Clearwater Bay and Sai Kung,” said PTA co-ordinator Lindsay Stark.

The book, Above Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay, had already sold out more than two thirds of its first run of 1,500 copies as Sai Kung Magazine went to press.

eye in the sky

An exhibition of the aerial photographs from the book opened at the Lawrence Lai Gallery, at The Peak, on November 27. (Limited edition images range from small to epic and are priced from $3,400 to $26,000).

A second exhibition will open at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club on December 19 at 6.30pm. Feel free to drop by and have a drink on us!

“The response to the book has been fantastic,” said Uden. “I would like to thank everyone who has helped make the book such a success.”

At press time, the last copies of Above Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay could be bought at Dymocks, Jaspas, Ali Oli, Leisure Bookshop, Hebe 101, Steamers and The Reading Room.

If they are sold out, visit hkaerial.com which has 26 copies left. You can buy them online by PayPal and we will mail them anywhere in the world.

Merry Christmas!

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interview

wild thing

Mara of the forest

A confirmed animal lover, Sai Kunger Mara McCaffery embarked on a life-changing trip to Borneo in 2008 and a year later set up animal-welfare charity Orangutan Aid. that? Otherwise I enjoy hiking up Ma On Shan: it’s a punishing upward climb for the first 45 minutes, but the view and the lure of a coffee and pastry back in Sai Kung keeps you going.

Tell us about your relationship with Sai Kung.

Sai Kung is home. We arrived in Hong Kong nearly 11 years ago and during our research into where to live, we took a mini bus to Sai Kung.

As we came around the corner after Marina Cove and caught a first glimpse of the beautiful bay and headland we knew that this was it! We found a tiny flat in a great location and have been here ever since. To be living in Hong Kong yet surrounded by nature – wild boar, snakes, birds and feral cattle – is a great privilege. I love the feeling of community that still exists despite the many changes.

Favourite thing to do?

I enjoy social sailing as long as Iʼm “bribed” with a squid lunch at Pak A, but I prefer to keep my feet on terra firma. I love the walk to Trio beach – it’s in my backyard; I can step out of my door and be on the track in two minutes. Where else in the world can you live in an urban environment, and still be able to do

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Any local issue you are passionate about?

I am an animal lover and passionate about local animal welfare and environmental conservation issues. I volunteer for Hong Kong Dog Rescue and the Animals Asia Foundation.

If you could change one thing about Sai Kung what would it be?

I would make it illegal to keep those huge fish in inappropriately small tanks in some of the waterfront restaurants, it’s incredibly cruel. And I would make the waterfront a grassy area again.

Best piece of advice you were ever given?

“You can make it happen.”

When I was having doubts about starting my first business in 1990, I was encouraged to believe in my abilities – it’s become my motto.

Tell us about your latest project.

My latest project is

Orangutan Aid (www.orangutanaid. com), which came about after a life-changing trip to Borneo in 2008. Orangutans in the wild are on the verge of extinction mainly because of the wanton destruction of their rainforest habitat. Seeing this destruction first hand, and the terrible consequences for orangutans and hundreds of other species, not to mention the millions of tons of CO2 released into the atmosphere, galvanised me into action. The wider implication of my quest to help save the orangutan, is also to fight against issues such as global warming and climate change which affect us all, and the future generations. Through Orangutan Aid, Iʼm trying to increase peopleʼs awareness of the situation and educate the younger generation by giving talks and presentations. The money which is raised is used to support the work done by Orangutan Foundation International which runs the Care and Rehabilitation Centre where I spend one month a year as a volunteer. Being part of this supportive community in Sai Kung made it possible for me to embark on this project.

sai kung diary

vines

Department of repetition

Veteran journalist and long-time Sai Kung resident Stephen Vines gets a few things off his chest.

Something very strange happened on Hiram’s Highway. I was halfway down the so-called “highway” when I realized it was free of roadworks. This is not normal.

As this road regularly excites the venom of the Highways Department, I wonder what the good people of Sai Kung have done to deserve this treatment?

The department seems determined to ensure that obstruction is the norm on this flowchallenged road, causing endless inconvenience.

I’ve never known a piece of asphalt that has been so vigorously dug up, re-dug up and then dug up again for good measure.

One week it’s the turn of the drainage people, then the electricity guys have a go and then maybe it’s time for the good people from telecommunications to dig up everything that was dug up before. Surely the whole point of a highways’ department is to coordinate this stuff and ensure that all kinds of work involving major road closures is done simultaneously, or as closely together as possible.

This is hardly an original observation, and I know this issue is raised time and time again, but always with the same result – nothing happens.

Generally, Hiram’s Highway is in good company. At the time of writing, Clear Water Bay Road leading from Choi Hung is, yet again, being dug up and poor old Tai Mong Tsai Road on the way to Sai Kung Country Park is subject to yet more battery.

Maybe this is part of a dastardly plot to

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persuade Sai Kung residents that Hiram’s Highway should be turned into a superhighway burning into the quiet of the district? The logic being that a wider road could still be dug up on a daily basis (this requirement has clearly been inscribed somewhere in the “Great Book of How to Cause Inconvenience where No Inconvenience is Required”) yet the digging affects will be minimized by greater road width.

My, these chaps sitting behind dusty desks are clever.

The Mid-Autumn Festival has passed, the humidity has lifted and the cooler weather is on us. Now is the time for all good men and women to take out their barbecue forks, festoon the countryside with plastic bags and join tour groups penetrating the edges of the country parks accompanied by the ringing tones of a handheld microphone issuing instructions at a volume surely sufficient to reach Shenzhen.

Sometimes this level of noise and disturbance is considered too puny for the tastes of whoever it is in the bureaucracy that decreed helicopters need to be dispatched to swoop around the areas ordinary loudspeakers cannot reach and blast out largely unintelligible warnings about the many hazards of being in the country park. I’m thinking of contacting the film director Francis Ford Coppola to suggest he considers a sequel to Apocalypse Now, something on the lines of Apocalypse Pak Tam Chung – The Walking Fields.

Seriously, it ain’t right. Here is an area of breathtaking beauty and an abundance of wildlife, splendid vegetation and, if it were

allowed to be so, tranquillity.

Meanwhile, just to prove that living in the sticks doesn’t necessarily make you grumpy, let me say something really nice about one of the government services in these parts. Will the post office please take a bow.

Even those of us who live well away from any centre of population know the postal service is simply first class. Over the many years I’ve lived in Sai Kung, I have never encountered a postman who was not friendly and helpful. Even though it must be a pain to deliver small quantities of mail to inconveniently located villages, it is performed with great efficiency.

What happens after letters leave these shores is quite another matter. I have been embroiled in a three-month-long dispute with a company in one of Europe’s efficiency-challenged offshore islands, called Britain. The issue concerns non-receipt of a payment. The matter has now been settled after the people claiming this money finally admitted it somehow got lost in the post. Fortunately I was able to say with absolute certainty that this didn’t happen while the letter was in the hands of the highly competent Hong Kong Post Office.

The account’s guy in London, postal district EC4 (that’s right in the heart of the City), was forced to agree things regularly get lost in the London post and he was impressed by my resolute confidence in the Hong Kong service.

Guess what? Because everything is working so well, the government is thinking of selling off this unit, presumably so it does not offer an unfair competitive challenge to those other terrible services overseas.

All I want for

Christmas...

Your A-to-Z Sai Kung shopping list.

A is for...

Advent calendars – You’re never too old for the Christmas countdown. Babushka has funky modern designs by Rachel Ellen ($50), and Butcher King has more traditional calendars with a chocolate a day ($28).

B is for...

Baubles – Yellow House has all sorts of quirky Christmas tree decorations from mirror balls to gorgeous triple-decker baubles in neon pink, spots and stripes ($30).

Balloons – On the basis that you can never have too many balloons, set the Christmas scene with a giant candy cane balloon tower from dZona.

C is for...

Candy canes – Red and white or multicoloured from Butcher King for $6 a cane.

Cards – Dymocks has a large range of charity Christmas cards in all styles, sizes and prices. Or for a local flavour, try Cupcake Designs which has a card of Santa and his reindeer soaring over a silhouette of Hong Kong’s skyline.

Cheese – A slice of Colston Basset Stilton with a glass of tawny port is a fitting end to a fine Christmas meal. Treat yourself to some of the world’s finest artisan cheeses at Classified.

Crackers – Butcher King usually has Christmas crackers, although you’ll have more choice at Marks & Spencer now handily located in Tseung Kwan O.

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D is for...

Duck, Barbary – Leaner than the average duck, Barbary or Muscovy ducks are renowned for their firm, plump meat and make a great alternative to turkey. One duck should comfortably feed four to six people. Get yours from TC Deli (3.4kg for $699), which also has jars of duck fat and goose fat ($90) – the secret to delicious and perfectly crunchy roast potatoes.

E is for...

Eggnog – Once a drink of the English aristocracy, now a boozy, creamy alternative to sherry on Christmas morning. Here’s how to make a batch. You will need: 12 eggs, separated, 6 cups milk, 2 cups sugar, 2 cups thickened cream, 2 cups bourbon, three quarters of a cup of brandy, 2 tsp ground nutmeg. Beat the egg yolks and sugar together until firm and pale. Slowly add bourbon and brandy, then chill in the refrigerator. Just before serving, pour in the milk and 1tsp nutmeg. In a separate bowl, beat the cream until stiff. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff then gently fold first the egg whites, then the cream into the cooled eggnog mixture. Ladle into glasses and sprinkle with the remaining nutmeg.

F is for...

Foie gras – Decadent but delicious. TC Deli has 500g packs of sliced foie gras for $598.

G is for...

Goose – Europe’s original Christmas bird, goose meat is rich, dark, tender and juicy with deliciously crispy golden skin. A 6kg goose feeds 8-12 people. TC Deli has 5kg-6kg Polish or German geese for $1,300 each.

Gravadlax – Traditional Danish marinated dill salmon is the biz at TC Deli, which has 500g packs for $198.

H is for...

Ham – A home-cooked ham is almost as Christmassy as turkey. Butcher King has various options for smoked, unsmoked, bone-in and boneless, cooked and uncooked gammon hams (from $50/lb).

High tea – Sai Kung’s own Not Only Olives has a whole range of goodies for the traditional ham and leftover-turkey high tea, including Christmas Chutney, olives, cheese and more. Get a hamper and call it done.

J is for...

Julia Donaldson books – The reigning queen of young children’s books is on the top 10 list at The Reading Room. Other Sai Kung bestsellers include “Panda Myths”, “Stories from the Silk Road”, “Kids Go Green”, Time Almanac, cookbooks, princess stories, Levelled Readers series, People Shape and story treasuries.

Christmas A-Z

I is for...

Internet – Let your fingers do the shopping at these Hong Kong dotcoms.

HKAerial.com – Aerial photography of your Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay backyard, literally in many cases. Taken

by Graham Uden (see U, below), these are the same beautiful images that appear in “Above Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay” but as top-quality photographic prints.

Hocusdabra.com – Eco-friendly, educational and classic toys such as groovy magician’s cloaks, accordions, wooden firetrucks and more.

Paddyfield.com – Hong Kong’s answer to Amazon.com, with loads of great books but without the dodgy overseas postal services.

Verochocolates.com – Gorgeous, premium chocolates made right here in Hong Kong.

We’re loving this season’s truly tasteful chocolate baubles.

Winerack.com.hk – Some of the most reasonably priced wines in town, with plenty of familiar labels and awardwinning vintages. Also sells boutique beers and cider.

M is for...

Mince pies – We’re talking fruit mincemeat of the type that dates back to the 15th century in Britain and Europe, made with dried fruit, spirits, spices and often beef suet (take care, veggies). Rich and strongly flavoured, go the whole hog and enjoy yours with brandy sauce, custard or whipped cream.

Yum. Available at Mushroom Bakery ($7 each).

Mulled wine – Few things warm the cockles like a glass of hot, spiced wine. Here’s how to make your own. In a large saucepan, heat a bottle of red wine, the peel of one orange, a slug of brandy, about eight cloves, two or three large spoonfuls of honey or sugar, a couple of cinnamon sticks and a pinch of ground ginger. The trick is to warm it gently, without boiling, for about 25 minutes. Ladle the liquid into glasses leaving the spices and orange peel in the pan. Alternatively, Ali Oli has mulled wine kits for $170, including two bottles of red wine and all the ingredients you need.

K is for...

Kissing – Under the mistletoe, that is. It’s a fragile plant and lasts only a day or two in Hong Kong, says Cindy Liu of Cindy’s Florist. So order yours for the day you need it, and make it a hot date.

L is for...

Lights – As in fairy lights for your Christmas tree. The world seems to be divided into two types of people, those who like coloured lights and those who prefer them all white. However you like yours, Shun Kee City Houseware is sure to have something to please.

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Christmas A-Z One-stop shopping

Sai Kung gift guide for the shoppingphobic.

Babushka This is what all toy shops should look like: calm, colourful and full of toys you want to sit down and play with. Little princesses will love the Christmassy red and green frilled skirts and “Ho Ho Ho” shirts, Captain Jack Sparrow fans will spend hours playing with the large wooden pirate ship, and wannabe astronauts will go lunar for the three-foot rocket ship. For a truly painless shopping experience, pop along to the late-night opening on December 8 for wine and nibbles while you browse. Shop 12, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2791 9070, babushkahongkong@gmail.com.

Classified Everybody loves a hamper. Go one better than the usual tins and mass-produced biscuits, with Classified’s upmarket hamper range. For cheese-lovers, the Fete de Fromage hamper ($850) comes with vouchers

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N is for...

Nutcracker dolls – Available in huge variety at Yellow House.

O is for...

Oranges – Hand them out when you want everyone to go home.

P is for...

Panettone – Whether you consider it bread or cake, this Italian Christmas staple dotted with candied fruit goes down a treat. Get yours from Fusion, which has a variety of sizes at $27.90-$195.

Pudding – Ali Oli has two sizes of Christmas pudding in ceramic pots for $58 and $95. Mushroom Bakery has a pudding for $60, and Fusion has alcohol-free puddings by Coles Foods for $159.90, or luxury Waitrose versions for $64$188. Don’t forget the sixpence – and if you haven’t got a sixpence, 50 cents will do.

Q is for...

Quince paste – It’s a Christmas tradition in Provence, France, where quince paste makes up one of the season’s Thirteen Desserts, representing Jesus and the 12 apostles. But you may prefer it with cheese on a big old platter at Classified, which also sells it separately at $47/100g.

R is for...

Reindeer – There’s something appealingly cheesy about the two-foot silver tinsel reindeer at Shun Kee City Houseware. Put it outside your front door and ensure your guests arrive smiling.

Rum cake – Mandy Nathali of Mandy’s Private Kitchen has been making this delicious Caribbean rum cake for more than a decade, so you can be confident she has it cracked. She ferments fruit for a minimum of three months before baking it into a fruity, boozy mound of goodness. Mandy’s rum cake can be ordered in funsize muffins, 1lb or 6lb slabs.

Christmas A-Z S is for...

Stockings – Yellow House has stockings in any colour, size and almost any decorative motif from a pillowcase-sized red “Ho Ho Ho” sack to a stocking just big enough for a tangerine and a couple of walnuts. It also has mantlepiece stocking hooks – if you’re lucky enough to have a mantlepiece, that is.

Stollen – The German Christmas classic, with marzipan or without, is available at Butcher King in two sizes at $48 and $88.

Stuffing – How do you like yours? Fortunately, turkeys have space for two types of stuffing, which is just as well as we can’t decide which of TC Deli’s stuffings we like best: its own-recipe sausage stuffing, or Aussie imports fig-pistachio stuffing and macadamia-cranberry stuffing ($130 each).

T is for...

Tinsel – Available by the box-load outside Kong Ming Emporium (that’s the Konica shop). Pick a colour, any colour, and it’s sure to have tinsel to match.

Turkey – Ah, the big bird. Butcher King has US turkeys from Butterball ($22/lb) and Norbest ($20/lb), TC Deli has free-range chilled Australian turkeys for ($149/kg, or $67/lb). Allow approximately one pound per person (uncooked weight).

Tree skirts – For those who prefer their Christmas tree trunks to be tucked demurely out of sight, Yellow House has an extraordinarily large rangeAGS of FW skirts from modern red and white HongKong_saikung_11-05-551-D_93x120_en_1605_ctp.pdf varieties to glitzy gold numbers.

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One-stop shopping (cont'd) for its artisan cheeses, a board and cheese knives, chutney, relish, crackers, oatcakes and a copy of “Fromager – Affineur”.

Pantry Christmas ($550) includes mince pies, cake, shortbread and preserves from the new Classified Pantry Range. There are also themed hampers for wine lovers, Italian Christmas and French Christmas ($1,500 each) and the king of the crop, the Connoisseur Collection ($2,500).

Colour Brown Colour Brown sells pukka coffee-making equipment in the shop attached to its oldtown cafe. Coffee connoisseurs will plant a Christmas kiss on anyone who wraps up a home coffee roaster, a sleekly Italian Gaggia coffee-maker or one of the more HeathRobinson glass and steel contraptions from Tiamo. Also available are sacks of pureorigin coffee beans that can be roasted for you. While you’re there, try a kopi lewak – a distinctive and pricey brew made from beans that have passed through the digestive system of a palm civet. Now that’s what we call a stocking stuffer.

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Christmas A-Z One-stop shopping (cont'd) Dymocks Dymocks has something for everyone, with a range of best-sellers, local books, fiction and non-fiction, cookbooks and even books in German. It also has plenty of stocking stuffers such as book lights in myriad forms, Moleskine notebooks, and even an electronic dictionary bookmark – handy. For children, check out the great range of books, toys, boardgames and other fun stuff on the first floor.

G.O.D Fans of G.O.D-D.O.G and its tong gau village dog T-shirts will have noticed the new Goods of Desire shop in Sai Kung. After its eye-catching opening window display, we’re guessing there will be plenty of nipple-tassel and boxer aprons in Sai Kung stockings on Christmas morning. There’s plenty more where they came from, with witty interpretations of Hong Kong icons including “Not in Service” taxi-sign eyemasks, market lamp bracelets, Good Morning towelling bathrobes and, our favourite, triad tattoo sleeves.

Spa vouchers Who doesn’t like to be pampered? Slip a voucher for a massage, facial or mani-pedi into the stocking of anyone over the age of 12 and you’re onto a winner.

Top spots locally include Sabai Day Spa, Sense of Touch and Allure.

U is for...

Uden – As in photographer Graham Uden, who took the beautiful aerial photographs featured in the new book “Above Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay”. The perfect gift for anyone who lives in the area, their friends, your family and anyone who’s ever visited you. Easy-peasy!

W is for...

Wine – EuroCasa has an interesting range of Spanish wines, and try Classified for premium vintages from both the Old and New World.

Wrapping paper – Look for good-quality wrapping paper in shiny gold and silver, plus a variety of contemporary patterns at Dymocks.

V is for...

Village, gingerbread – In property-driven Hong Kong, perhaps it’s no surprise that the humble Hansel & Gretel gingerbread house has been gazumped by the gingerbread village, and the gingerbread sleigh, train, tree... (Fusion, $188 each). Traditionalists may prefer to keep it simple with the gingerbread house kit at Ali Oli, which is offering both prefab and DIY versions ($280), as well as gingerbread dough that you can take home and cook yourself (500g for $35).

X is for...

Xmas trees – Artificial trees may be more eco-friendly (arguably) but there’s nothing like the smell – and hoovering – that comes with a real tree.

Y is for...

Yule log – Okay, so Ali Oli calls it a “Christmas log”, but it’s a reassuringly familiar roll of chocolatey goodness of the type you probably remember granny making (from $150). The original yule logs were giant bits of tree that kept the home fires burning in Europe during the festive period.

Revive the tradition at your favourite barbecue pit.

Z is for...

Zombies – As in “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Zombies”, a book of zombie carols by Michael P. Spradlin that takes a twisted look at the Christmas classics.

Sample lyric: “Good King Wenceslas tastes great / We might as well eat Stephen”. It’s a nobrainer. Available at Paddyfield.com ($80).

“It’s the season to be jolly...”, but only guys, if you don’t fall for this line: ”You don’t have to give me anything, as long as we can spend Christmas together!”

Even if you’ll leave it till December the 24th, www.ignite-experience.com will have handpicked stocking fillers and gifts for her.

No need to slide down the chimney, as ignite gift wraps and delivers: romantic dates, imaginative surprises and playful presents!

Contact us: T : 852-6653-1545 // E : info@ignite-experience.com // fb : www.facebook.com/igniteexperience.com Anzeige ignite Dezember.indd 4

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16.11.2011 17:29:07

how to Christmas Christmas trees

Where to get it

Keep it real.

Ali Oli 11 Sha Tsui Path, 2792 2655, orders@

Kalok 1-K, Mang Kung Wor Road (near

Cindy’s Florist The ever-reliable Cindy Liu has noble firs ranging from 4ft to a whopping 10ft and more. A 5ft-6ft tree is $1,080 and a 6ft-7ft tree is $1,250. She also sells holly and poinsettias ($20-$200).

Allure 22-40 Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung, 2792

KK Horticulture Tai Chung Hau Road, Sai

Anthony’s Ranch 28 Yi Chun Street, 2791

Kong Ming Emporium 14 Wan King Path,

Babushka Shop 12, 66 Yi Chun Street, 2791

Mandy’s Private Kitchen 9816 9946,

Butcher King 24 Yi Chun Street, 2792 0159.

mandysprivatekitchen.com.

Ikea Ikea is running a tree-delivery service until December 17 on orders placed by December 14. There are three sizes available, 3ft American noble firs for $399 each, and Scandinavian firs at 4ft-5ft for $529 and 6ft-7ft for $599. Order in store only.

KK Horticulture Noble firs are available in a range of sizes, from two-foot tiddlers ($400) to eight-foot ceiling-scrapers ($1,750). Most people, however, go for the 5ft-6ft ($990) or 6ft-7ft ($1,330) trees.

Poinsettias are $40-$100, 24-inch Christmas wreaths are $350, and fresh table centrepieces $350.

Kalok Horticulture Kalok has both Douglas firs – which have softer needles – and noble firs, which have thicker, stronger branches and needles: 4ft-5ft trees at $780, 5ft-6ft at $900, 6ft-7ft at $1,080 and 7ft-8ft at $1,350. Also available are poinsettias ($50-$100) and wreaths ($250).

alioli.com.hk.

2123.

6116.

9070, babushkahongkong@gmail.com.

Kung, 2792 7440.

2792 1678.

mandysprivatekitchen@gmail.com, www.

Cindy Florist 1A Tak Lung Front Street, Sai

Marks & Spencer East Point City, Tseung

Classified 5 Sha Tsui Path, 2529 3454.

Mushroom Bakery 26 Yi Chun Street, 2792

Kung, 9365 0624.

Kwan O, 2926 6848.

Colour Brown 34 See Cheung Street, Sai

6866.

Cupcake Designs www.cupcakedesigns.biz.

meandjoe@netvigator.com.

Kung, 2791 7128.

Dymocks 7 Man Nin Street, 2791 9110. dZona 9711 5481.

EuroCasa 14 Tak Lung Front St., Sai Kung, 9870 3818, www.eurocasa.com.hk.

Fusion 5/F Silverstrand Mart, Clear Water Bay, 2335 5506.

HKAerial photo@saikung.com, www.HKAerial. com.

Ikea L4, MegaBox, Kowloon Bay, 3125

0888; 5/F Home Square, 138 Sha Tin Rural

Committee Road, Sha Tin, www.ikea.com/hk.

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Habitat), Sai Kung, 2719 5025.

Not Only Olives 6100 0253, email Sabai Day Spa 2/F, 10 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2791 2259.

Sense of Touch 77 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2791 2278.

Shun Kee City Houseware 6 Yi Chun Street, 2792 9850.

TC Deli 10B Hang Hau Village, Tseung Kwan O, 2358 2332, www.tcdeli.com.

The Reading Room 21 Hoi Pong Road, 9021 2397 / 9199 5900.

Yellow House 12 See Cheung Street, 2791 5599.

hikes

The way of the dragon

Jackie Peers tackles Hong Kong Island’s most popular walk, the famous Dragon’s Back.

No matter how much you love Sai Kung, no doubt you’d agree that we should also get to know Hong Kong Island – particularly when you have visitors. My husband and I made the mistake with good friend Kate of assuming she’d been to Hong Kong before. We spent a happy week following forgotten trails, crashing through bamboo, communing with feral cattle and eating at modest but charming dai pai dongs, only to discover on her last day that she’d never been downtown.

With Christmas being prime visitor season, here’s a way to take your guests to the Island, briefly wave your arm in the direction of the city’s spires, then hare off to enjoy the activities we love so much here.

Welcome to the Dragon's Back, a trail famously hailed by Time Magazine as Asia's best urban hike: “This is the city’s finest and most surprising ramble... the glory of it all is that you're so close to the city, but could hardly feel further away.”

It’s a beauty. The final eastern section of the 50km Hong Kong Trail takes you along the rugged,

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undulating spine of Hong Kong Island, where the earth is considered a living entity and its lines of force known as “dragon’s veins”. There are breathtaking views of dazzling seas, the distant Nine Pins Islands, sandy Big Wave Bay, Tai Tam Harbour, Stanley and the Red Hill peninsula.

Start the hike from the To Tei Wan bus stop, on Shek O Road. You can get there on the no.9 bus from Shau Kei Wan. The hike starts along a lovely cool path that winds through shady groves of bamboo and lush woodland, accompanied by cheerful birdsong. It emerges into open hillsides often covered with wild azaleas or rose myrtle: right now, jasmine and the mountain tea bush, Gordonia, are in flower. At the first crossroads, by the pagoda, continue up along the ridge, where you’re likely to find out why this corner of the Island is so beloved of paragliders and model-aircraft enthusiasts. Even on a calm day, you’ll see how the vegetation has been bent by the almostconstant wind.

On descent you’ll come to a fork in the path: turn

slayer

Collector and Restorer of Antiques Custom-made Solid Wood Furniture Architecture and Interior Design

left to complete the circuit back to the bus stop, or continue right and after another 30 minutes of flat, shaded walking come to a service road, with toilets on the left. From here, you can descend to Shek O Road and on down to Shek O itself for a yummy meal at the famous Shek O Thai & Chinese Restaurant or one of the other informal eateries. Or continue along the service road, and follow the signs (just past the picnic area) to turn off down the many steps to the pretty beach of Big Wave Bay. There you can have a drink and watch the surfers before catching a bus or taxi back to the bright lights of Central, if you have the energy. Red minibuses and the no.9 also return to Shau Kei Wan. This is probably our most popular hike at Walk Hong Kong, with good reason. It’s the perfect way to work off the turkey and show your guests the wilder side of the island.

Jackie Peers is a director of Walk Hong Kong, a unique company that reveals Hong Kong to visitors.

She also runs photography courses in the Sai Kung area. Details at www.walkhongkong.com.

Manufacturer of Double-glazing Windows and Doors with built-in Curtains

Showroom: G/F, No.1 Tai Mong Tsai Road, Sai Kung (Old Foam Factory) Factory: Dongliu Industrial Zone, Daikong Town, Punyu, Guangzhou, China

Tel: 2791 9662 / 2723 8990 www.eurocasa.com.hk

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outdoors

The Dragon Slayers

The world’s best paddlers took to Hong Kong waters last month for the Steelcase Dragon Run, the biggest surfski event ever held.

It was the strongest field ever assembled for a surfski race anywhere in the world, when 144 paddlers took to the waters off Clearwater Bay Beach on November 19. They had gathered for the fifth annual Steelcase Dragon Run, a gruelling 23km open-water race around the Ninepin Islands, past Shek O and Cape D’Aguilar, and across the finish line in Stanley.

They were competing in two types of craft: spear-like surfskis, which are just 17 inches wide and 20 feet long, and OC1 outriggers – based on traditional Polynesian canoes with a small outrigger for stability.

The craft seemed intimidatingly small to take to sea, but that’s part of the thrill for the competitors. Open-water paddling attracts adrenaline junkies who thrive on the excitement of challenging the elements. It requires endurance, strength – both physical and mental – courage and commitment.

But everybody has to dip their toe in the water somewhere, and the calm waters of Hong Kong’s sheltered bays make a great training ground for novices. Less experienced paddlers also got a chance to find out what they’re made of in a shorter course on flatter water. Known as the Chicken Run, it’s an excellent entry-level competition that this year attracted 14 competitors.

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paddle battle

Who dares wins First across the Dragon Run line was Aussie surfskier Tim Jacobs, who powered home in a scorching time of 1:32:36, beating three-time Dragon Run winner Dawid Mocke (1:33:28) and South Africa's world marathon K1 champion Hank McGregor (1:34:01). First in the women’s surfski race was South Africa's Alexa Cole (1:50:51).

In the OC1 category, line honours went to Hawaii’s Karel Tresnak (1:51:46), with Anna Mathison taking home the trophy for the women’s race (2:08:13).

Among the Hong Kong-based competitors, Rob Wall came first in men’s solo surfski (1:50:544), while windsurfing coach Rene Appel paddled a double ski with Hong Kong Sea School student Li Yin (1:50:56). Camille de Carmejane was the fastest local woman surfski paddler (2:04:55).

For more on the Steelcase Dragon Run, visit www.thedragonrun. com.hk.

Photographer Graham Uden awards winner Tim Jacobs with a copy of Above Sai Kung!

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eating

Talking turkey

O little town...

Sai Kung restaurants get in the Christmas spirit. close. Fringed frocks and pinstriped suits optional. To deal with the New Year hangover, it will be serving unlimited Bloody Marys until 6pm for just $101.

Reservations at 112 Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung, 2335 5515, www. hebe101.com.

Hebe One O One Hebe One O One has been busy creating Christmas feasts, plural. Kicking off with a five-course meal on Christmas Eve ($398) and an epic Christmas Day lunch-slash-dinner with turkey, ham and eggnog crème brûlée (oh yes!) from noon to 10.30pm ($498 a head). If you’re still peckish on Boxing Day, try the special rib-eye roast with all the trimmings for $198.

Roll on New Year’s Eve for the 1920s Prohibition Party. Like any good speakeasy, Hebe One O One has laid in an unlimited supply of drinks to fuel its booze-infused five-course dinner ($788) and open bar from 7pm until

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Classified Those looking for a Christmas feast with European flair will find plenty on offer at Classified, where the six-course menu includes a choice of four main courses: herb-crusted saddle of lamb with cranberry relish, roasted spatchcocked Norfolk turkey with giblet gravy and thyme, lemon and herb roasted darne of salmon or red wine-braised beef with wild mushrooms, chestnuts, shallots and winter truffles. The meal starts with heart-warming mulled wine and ends with pudding, ice-cream and mince pies. Even better, you don’t have to wait until Christmas Eve to try it. The Christmas menu is available from December 5 to 31 and costs $600 per person. 5 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, 2529 3454, www.classifiedfoodshops.com.hk.

Anthony’s Ranch Never one to pass up the chance to fill Sai Kung bellies with a big, hearty meal, Anthony’s Ranch has a delicious traditional American-style set menu for Christmas Day. Customers can choose between succulent roasted or smoked turkey with all the trimmings, including candied

yams, mashed potatoes, crisp green beans and cranberry sauce. Start your meal with soup or salad and finish with a slice of good ol’ pecan pie. All for $248. Whole turkeys are also available by request, so bring the family. 28 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2791 6113 Aguaplus If festive celebrations always seem to find you in the bar, don’t fight it – embrace it. Aguaplus will be serving a traditional Christmas dinner from December 20 to 27. It’s a straightforward, crowdpleasing menu that starts with pumpkin soup or salad, a choice of roast turkey or Burgundy ham for main (with all the sides, naturally), and finishes with Christmas pudding. And all for $128 – you can’t say fairer than that. There’s also a brunch available on Christmas Day. 72 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2791 2030.

Hebe Haven Yacht Club The restaurant will be busy carving turkey from December 5, when the traditional Christmas dinner goes on the daily menu for lunch and dinner ($138). Specials this year include a Kids’ Christmas Party (adult $188, child $128) from 1pm on December 18, a special Christmas dinner set from December 23-25 (adult $298, child $178), and a lunch buffet on December 25 (adult $268, child $178). The club’s annual New Year’s Eve ball has a Red, White & Blue theme this year, with dinner in the Garden Bar and a “nightclub” taking over the first-floor restaurant and bar, with live music, a piper at midnight and a breakfast buffet at 2am. Tickets $1,118 or late-night ticket for $388. Reservations through a member. Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung, 2719 9682, www.hhyc.org.hk.

property

Classy glass

Adele Rosi investigates how inspiration overcame an octagonal floor plan Designing any interior requires creativity and vision but when the property in question has an asymmetric octagonal floor plan, supreme inventiveness and inspiration are called for. Such was the case with this stunning duplex.

Adding to the architect’s challenge was

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the fact that ceilings in certain areas were not particularly high, and although there is an impressive five-metre-high window on one side, it didn’t allow sufficient daylight into the original apartment. Consequently, every area in the entire space had to be restructured.

In order to get the most out of the floor-toceiling windows, the architect removed part of the floor on the upper level to create a mezzanine effect with the void enabling maximum light to flood the apartment, making both floors seem more spacious. The addition of an eye-catching

let there be light pendant light becomes a feature in its own right and prevents the double-height space from appearing bare and boring.

Glass is used throughout the home to maximise the sense of light and space. Upstairs, transparent glass “walls” snake interestingly along the corridor, which is dotted with cleverly placed voids to link upper and lower floors. Glass is also used in place of concrete to partition off the mezzanine-style upper living area.

Next up was the staircase. The original was heavy and not in keeping with the modern theme requested by the owner, so it was replaced with contemporary steps. Fixed to the wall on only one side, the stairs are subtle, stylish and appear to “float”, increasing the sense of space through the lack of a banister.

The beauty of this apartment is its abundance of living areas and this is where the quirky shape of the property comes into its own.

Thanks to the open-plan layout, these areas are linked but also separate and “private” thanks to the octagonal angles.

Downstairs, a small study area hides behind a casual family den furnished with comfortable seating. In front of that – benefiting most from the

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property

huge picture windows and views over the garden – is a more formal lounging area and dining space. Broad, sliding doors bring the outdoors in and almost blur the difference between the two, making the narrow garden seem bigger.

Chocolate-brown leather and dark wood is predominant on the ground floor, but upstairs is a

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lighter affair. The client requested a comfortable, cosy master bedroom and the dĂŠcor is soft and gentle, making bedtime even more appealing.

There is a small walk-in wardrobe to the right of the en-suite bathroom and a row of wardrobes at the foot of the bed that offers even more storage.

The doors are made of fabric sandwiched

between glass to make them appear less solid and complement the muted oiled oak flooring.

This runs throughout the upper level from the bedroom along the corridor and into a further sitting room, furnished with a palette of gold and cream fabrics.

The en-suite bathroom is a haven: an

property inviting combination of the upper and groundfloor décor – all beige tiles and dark-wood cabinets – it features a rainforest shower scheme, a brilliantly lit dressing table and a wealth of mirrors.

Add to this some minimal but brilliant finishing touches such as Giacometti-style sculptures, boldly coloured pots and arresting art, this residence is as desirable as they come.

Giverny: $2,883/sqft

Recent property sales Property sqft Price Marina Cove 1,001 $20.8m Giverny 2,883 $38m Balmoral Garden 1,618 $13.5m Fairway Vista 2,100 $28m Portofino 2,710 $31.8m Marina Cove 1,907 $17.8m Hebe Villa 2,147 $23m Caribbean Villa 2,100 $18m Marina Cove 2,267 $45m Marina Cove 2,391 $30.8m

$/sqft 20,779 13,181 8,334 13,333 11,734 9,334 10,712 8,571 19,850 12,706

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interiors Softly softly

Go natural with simple, well-crafted pieces, textured accessories and pale wood for a soft look that is easy on the eye.

Floral pendant lamp by New Zealand designer David Trubridge, made from recycled New Zealand wood. Available in a range of colours from Mirth Home, $2,400.

Coloured storage boxes from Attic, $725 for set of three.

Oil candles, Zest of Asia, $220-$280.

Zebra cushions, Not in the Malls, price on application.

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snug addict Where to get it Attic, 12/F, Sungib Industrial Building, 53 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, www.attic-lifestyle.com.

Indigo, The Repulse Bay & 6/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing St, Ap Lei Chau, www.indigo-living.com.

Inside, The Repulse Bay & 12/F, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing St, Ap Lei Chau, www.inside.com.hk.

Mirth, M/F, BT Centre, Yip Kan St, Wong Chuk Hang, www.mirthhome.com.

Not in the Malls, www.notinthemalls.com.

Zest of Asia, www.zestofasia.com.

Cushion in copper and ivory tree design from Indigo, $459.

Brass Lantern from Inside, $790.

Brooklyn sofas from Indigo, $12,150-$19,750.

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education

Garden House

Cannie Bennett, who opened Garden House Preschool in 2008 on Waldorf Education principles, explains its back-to-nature approach to learning.

Join us at Babushka for late night Christmas Shopping on Thursday December 8th from 5pm -9pm, enjoy some festive refreshments & mince pies while you shop...

Babushka is also hosting a number of Christmas decoration work-shops, fun for all ages!

Please call or email for details.

Tell us about the school’s history.

I wanted to start a kindergarten that brings children closer to nature, with less traffic and plenty of space to explore. I spent months looking for a place with outdoor space for children, pets and plants. When I found our current premises, I knew instantly this was the place.

What are Garden House’s strengths?

It has a peaceful environment, with caring teachers, engaging activities and ample time for indoor and outdoor play. We spend time exploring nature, going for walks, caring for our rabbits and fish, planting vegetables and herbs on our farm and making snacks for our classes – using our homegrown produce where we can. We make a conscious effort to provide concrete learning experiences and to minimise academic pressure, which can sap young children’s vitality at a time when they should be growing strong and healthy.

What are the school's core values?

To educate the whole child. Our focus is to provide education that is developmentally appropriate, based on an understanding of the stages

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of a child’s physical, emotional and intellectual development.

What system does your school follow?

We follow the Waldorf Education philosophy [founded by Rudolf Steiner], which follows the developmental stages of the child, rather than the child following the stages of the curriculum. It strives to create balanced human beings, emphasising the importance of balancing the head, the heart, and the hands. The “hands” imply our actions and behaviour; the “heart” symbolizes what a person believes, values, hopes for and is committed to; the “head” represents our theories, knowledge and perspectives.

Any developments planned?

As staff we have year-round workshops and talks given by Waldorf educators from around the world. We are trying to get the children out on our farm on a more regular basis, emphasizing our desire to get the children closer to nature.

How do your students benefit at, say, university level?

The Research Institute for Waldorf

naturally...

Education has done a year-long study of high-school graduates over the past 10 years, and reported that Waldorf graduates attend not only the finest universities and colleges in North America but around the world.

Is your school multicultural?

We are proud to have many different nationalities within our community.

We share many different festivals and cultural activities within the school.

How do you balance creative and academic subjects?

We aim to provide an alternative way of educating children. Waldorf education believes that teaching children academic abstract thought too early forces them to use vital energy to think rather than grow and strengthen their bodies. So children are exposed to concepts such as maths and science in a subtle way, such as counting out plates and cups at snack time, or watching honey dissolve in warm water and the yeast bubble up when making bread. We believe that if children are allowed to use their imagination and creativity from a young age, they will become creative thinkers, enthusiastic learners with a zest for learning and for life.

Tell us about your staff.

One of the most important things for a teacher is a natural love of children and a desire to understand and work with them and their parents. We look for teachers who have pride and self-worth in doing a job to the best of their ability; a good role model, with warmth, patience and plenty of energy. Staff members also support a local charity by working in their childcare centre on Saturdays.

How have schools changed since you were a student?

We were encouraged to interact with the natural world more than the electronic one and were exposed to little electronic media. While I accept television and other electronic devices are an integral part of the world communication network, there are long-lasting effects on us, not all of which are good. It leaves people with no space to breathe. Stress, high-blood pressure, asthma and depression are found in a much younger generation than when I was a student. By living in the fast lane, we have lost the rhythm of life.

Garden House Preschool and Playgroup, 7 Silverstrand Beach Road, Clearwater Bay, 2358 1177, www.gardenhouse.hk.

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family The Gate

Liz Remington learns to talk business.

I’ve been a busy woman this month. A chance meeting with an old friend has put a new job opportunity my way. I love this about Hong Kong.

When I arrived in 1990, I left a Britain steeped in depression and recession. After graduating I posted countless job applications and received countless rejections from faceless employers who, I felt, if they met me in person would be fighting to hire me. Coming to Hong Kong was my chance to start again. I was bowled over by how generous people were with their time and contacts and here I am, 21 years later, still benefiting from this friendly network.

But if I am going to make the most of these new opportunities I’ve got to smarten up my act.

I may even get a name card. It’s time to go pro.

Most importantly I have to learn when to speak – and when to keep my own counsel.

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A couple of weeks ago, I found myself in a business meeting with a group of influential company directors. I didn’t have to do much – just introduce myself. But too many years spent yabbering with mothers and talking nonsense to children has loosened my tongue and I’m no longer able to judge when to keep quiet. I used to pride myself on being able to talk long enough on answer machines to reach the time-

out bleep and have to call again to complete the message.

I blather to my husband.

I blather to the children.

I know I repeat the same stories time and time over by the glazed look on my friends’ faces when I launch into the third telling of an anecdote. And it’s not that I think I am particularly fascinating or have anything earth shattering to share – I wish! I just can’t stop talking.

keeping mum

Green art New children’s art studio Little Hands Workshop opens this month offering ecofriendly art and craft classes that focus on recycling found items into works of art. Crucially, say its Canadian founders, mum Michelle Miao and kindergarten teacher Amy Liu, the pieces will be entirely produced by the children themselves.

Located on Hiram’s Highway, opposite the Esso station, Little Hands occupies a cheerful 650 sqft space, with recycledwood art tables and a large sunny patio for outdoor classes that is soon to be home to

I had to exercise super-human self-control at this meeting, afraid that just by opening my mouth to say my name I would unleash the loquacious beast within. If you really get me started I tend to blather on about all kinds of inappropriate personal stuff too. My eldest child is fed up with me telling my friends when she has nits/threw up on Christmas Day. As I write this she is looking at me – astonished that once again her personal life is being hung out for public consumption.

I thought the meeting with the directors went quite well. They seemed genuinely interested in my views on Robbie Williams reuniting with Take That – but time will only tell if this clinched the deal.

$1,499

$2,250

Super Sounds Drum Kit

$600

Santa’s workshop Get creative this Christmas and make your own decorations. Sai Kung toy shop Babushka is running special workshops for wannabe elves and their parents to make their own tree decorations. Contact Elizabeth for dates and details. Shop 12, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2791 9070, babushkahongkong@gmail.com.

Mini Micro Scooter Lights & blue, pink, red, yellow, Sounds Walker green, orange

Raleigh Micro Miss 12” 3yrs+

Red Retro Kitchen

a giant robot made from recycled cans.

The classes are available for children from the ages of two-and-a-half to 12 years, with options for three-class weekend workshops and after-school courses of nine to 12 weeks. Each class lasts from one hour to 90 minutes, depending on age, and parents are not expected to accompany pre-schoolers. Give it a whirl at the Winter Camps on Dec 19-21 and 27-29.

For more information email michelle@ littlehands.com.hk or visit www.littlehands. com.hk. Little Hands, G/F, 60 Sun On Village, Sai Kung.

Hospital Play Tent

$699 $450

$300

accessories available separately

Leapster Explorer

Catalogue now instore

Santa shops at Knights’ Fortress

$525

Folding Football Table

$630

Leapster Games from

$225

$2,999

Happy Land Ready to Play Village Set

$899

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 43

health & beauty

The glam squad Get ready to party...

The Perfect Wellness Solution

Mani/pedi Sense of Touch offers several manicure options, including a traditional manicure for $170, a French manicure for $200 or, if you’re in a rush, a $120 express manicure for glam hands in just 25 minutes ($150 for French tips).

Products include OPI and eco-friendly brand Spa Ritual, a vegan DBP-, formaldehyde- and toluene-free nail polish.

Tala’s scooped the Best Mani/Pedi award in our 2010 Readers Choice Awards. A classic manicure will set you back $130 (go French for $180), or the exclusive mani plus hand massage is $200. A classic pedicure is $240, or $300 including foot massage.

For a one-stop party-prep shop, head to Allure, where $999 will get you a manicure, deluxe pedicure and diamond peel deepcleansing facial.

For a more enduring manicure, Sabai Day Spa’s soft gel nails are painted on like polish, aren’t damaging like hard gel nails and stay put for up to five weeks. A steal at $380 or $480 for a soft gel French manicure.

Spray tan It’s winter – fake it. Tala’s offers the world-famous St Tropez spray tans for all-over golden goodness. A 90-minute, full body spray tan is $600.

At Sense Of Touch, go bronze with Europe’s leading tanning solution, Su-Do. Infused with woody and citrus oils, it’ll leave you smelling summer sexy. It costs $400 for a full body and face spray tan. Or dare to bare with a full leg wax and spray tan for $560.

Rejuvenating facials Looking fresh-faced throughout the party season isn’t easy. Try the Sense of

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prep talk Touch party package that combines an ultra-hydrating Exotic Moisture Dew Facial, detox massage and warm stone eye massage (a miracle for reducing puffiness and dark circles), reduced to $1,450 from $1,680. Get an extra 10 per cent discount from December 25 to January 6.

Sabai Day Spa is all about bespoke beauty, so your first consultation will be a gentle facial and skin analysis to determine what treatments could help you get the best out of your skin. Treatments from $720 to $930.

Promising instant results, Melo Spa’s Energizing Radiance Ritual sweeps all those late nights under the rug. In just 75 minutes, this energizing mineral facial will restore your skin back to glowing, radiant glory, $1,250.

Crowning glory When you’ve got a big night ahead, leave your hair to the professionals with a wash and blowdry at Tala’s: $80 to $200 for short hair, $100 to $230 for longer manes.

Hairdresser to the late great Bruce Lee, and Hong Kong’s leading stylist during the 1970s and 80s, Susan Ng now makes house calls. Call 9310 5844 or email susanwdm5@yahoo.co.uk to make an appointment.

Where to go Sense of Touch 77 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2791 2278, www.senseoftouch.com.hk.

Tala’s Hair and Beauty 56 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2335 1014, www.talashairandbeautycentre.com Sabai Day Spa 2/F, 10D Po Tung Road (Above Honeymoon Dessert), Sai Kung, 2791 2259, www.sabaidayspa.com.

Melo Spa 5/F, Hyatt Regency Sha Tin, 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, 3723 7684, www.melospa.com.

Allure Shop 67/G, Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung, 2792 2123

H A I R

&

B E A U T Y

C E N T R E

Brazilian Blowout Mastey Organic Color Great Lengths Hair Extensions Waxing Manicure and Pedicure Facials ear piercing ●

Refer a new client &

●

New clients receive 10% discount

●

10 days guarantee on all services

●

Free Consultation

receive 50% off your next haircut

Sai Kung: 56 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, N.T. Central: M/F, No.4 Shelley Street, Soho, Central

Tel.: 2335 1694 Tel.: 2521 9333

www.talashairandbeautycentre.com

Three disciplines, one package There’s more to fitness than pounding the pavements, which is why personal trainer Tim Stevens, yoga instructor Emma Linnitt and Sabai Day Spa’s Linda Chuen have joined forces to offer a unique Wellness package. It’s a balanced weekly workout combining different techniques and philosophies for a fit, healthy body, calm mind and general wellbeing.

This translates into resistance training to strengthen the core, bones and muscles and increase metabolism; yoga to improve muscle tone, increase flexibility and reduce stress; and relaxing massage to achieve mental and physical wellness. The package, which can be tailor-made to suit individual needs, includes six hours of wellness: two or three personal training sessions at Basecamp, two or three one-on-one yoga sessions, plus a one-hour therapeutic massage at Sabai Day Spa. Valued at $3,650, the package is available for a discounted price of $2,650 throughout December with a three-month expiry. So not only does it make an original and easy Christmas gift, it puts paid to all the excuses for not getting into shape come January.

For more information and bookings, call Tim on 9196 9442, Emma on 9268 9131, or Linda on 2791 2259.

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pets Gift of a lifetime

While a pet can make the perfect present, prepare to be in it for the long run, writes Dr Carmel Taylor.

It was all going so well until Mr Lam mentioned hip scoring. “I know this breed suffers from hip dysplasia,” he said. I looked in dismay at the rambunctious puppy tugging playfully at my sleeve and gulped.

“Er, sorry Mr Lam, just what breed is Adonis?”

“You don't know?” he glared contemptuously. “He is a rare white golden retriever.”

“Just like Oprah has,” Mrs Lam added “Well, hip scoring probably won’t be necessary. He's not a retriever, white or golden.”

“What do you mean?!” Mr Lam thundered.

It took some time to convince the Lams their puppy’s pointy ears and brown eye patch meant he would not be winning “Best in Show” at any upcoming Kennel Club competitions.

“But I paid $5,000 for him!

The breeder said he would get me papers,” shouted Mr Lam, angrily dialling on his mobile phone, which trilled “the number you have dialled has been disconnected..."

Mrs Lam broke into sobs. “But Ophelia will be heartbroken, she SO wanted a white golden… And it’s only two days to Christmas!”

“Look on the bright side,” I said cheerfully, sparing them the lecture about unscrupulous “breeders” on the internet, “he’s an adorable little guy, and seems to be in great health, which is more than can be said for many pet-shop puppies we see...”

“NO, NO! I need to sort this out,” yelled Mr Lam snatching Adonis and storming out of the room, with Mrs Lam in tow.

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Several minutes later, my nurse stuck her head round the door with a big grin on her face.

“Can you squeeze in a walk-in appointment? It's Becky.”

I was always happy to see Becky, who I’d got to know quite well while treating her dog for lymphoma that year. Sadly, the cancer won in the end.

“I just dropped in to leave some Christmas cookies and to ask where would be the best place to adopt a dog, when I heard those people in the waiting room arguing about whether they could be bothered taking him to the shelter,” she said, holding the wriggling Adonis. “I just couldn’t let them dump him! But I have a dilemma – apart from the fact that its chaotic at this time of year, I don’t want to give the kids the wrong message by bringing him home at Christmas time.”

So Adonis spent his first Christmas being fostered by my nurse, and finally made it to his new home in early January. Becky still sends us cookies every Christmas, along with a photo of Jingles, as he was renamed by his adoring family.

Jingles was luckier than the many thousands of “unwanted” animals euthanized by AFCD last year. Remember, pets are for life – not just for Christmas.

Dr Carmel Taylor MVB MRCVS DipAiCVD, a veterinary dermatologist, makes house calls and works part time at Best Friends Vetinerary Hospital, in Sai Kung Old Town. For appointments 9251 9588 or visit www.cutaneous.com.hk.

net vs vet

Presents for pooches

Three Dog Bakery plays Santa to Sai Kung pups this year...

Three Dog Bakery has an adorable range of Christmasthemed dog toys and specials to put under the tree for your fourlegged friend. Toys are priced from $150 to $250 and if you spend $1000, you’ll receive 4 handmade pies or pastries for your pup while $1400 gets you a 5 inch santa cake. Spend $3000 or more, you’ll receive a Venture photography voucher for a photo session and free table-size photo.

Three Dog Bakery, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6778, www.threedog. com.hk

Pet personals

Need a pet? These sweethearts are looking to shack up. For details, call Kirsten at 9490 2061 or email kirstenszoo@gmail.com Arctic & Igloo

Joey

Fluffy pups

Smaller than the average husky, but with larger than life personalities.

Easy going, looking for a good time.

Simply irresistible - and there’s more than one.

Maggie

Kittens

Cassie

She’ll win you over with her mesmerizing gaze.

Two boys...One girl... there’s one for you.

Sweet & shy.

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 47

travel

Let it snow

Hong Kong’s snow bunnies are just a short flight from some of the best skiing in Asia. It’s all downhill from here...

Niseko, Japan Winter storms whooshing down from Siberia make the Hokkaido ski resort of Niseko one of the snowiest in the world. As well as all that deep, fresh dry powder, Niseko offers one of Japanese skiing’s funkier experiences, with a buzzing apresski nightlife scene. But first, refuel and warm up

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at the area’s many cosy cafes, casual diners or first-class restaurants. It’s not hard to see why Niseko is the destination of choice for many snow bunnies.

It is divided into four resorts, each with separate but interlinked ski areas. All up there are 2,191 acres of groomed slopes to explore, all of

which can be accessed with one ski pass. A one day pass is 5,900 yen (about HK$586).

To get there, fly to Sapporo and take the Niseko Ski Express JR train via Kutchan.

Alternatively, hop on one of the buses from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport to all four Niseko resorts. For details, visit www.niseko.ne.jp/en.

ski do Yongpyong, South Korea Scheduled to co-host the 2018 Winter Olympic Games, Yongpyong is a “mecca for snow sports” in the Taebaek Mountains about 180km east of Seoul. The resort has 31 slopes, including South Korea’s largest at 180 metres, plus 15 chair lifts and a terrain park (Dragon Park) for snowboarders and skiers to practise their kicks and tricks. For a full list of the mountain’s runs, their level of difficulty and length, visit www. yongpyong.co.kr.

There are dozens of mountain restaurants to feed hungry skiers, including organic Korean restaurant Peak Snack. But if you’ve really worked up an appetite, hit charcoal grill restaurant Modurang for a hearty feast of sizzling meats and

seafood. There are also seven well-stocked snow gear shops in Yongpyong for those who squirm at the thought of wearing rentals.

Jisan, South Korea A stone’s throw from Seoul, Jisan is perfect for those who have only one or two days of snow time. Great for families, Jisan’s gentle slopes are suitable for beginners and mid-level skiers. When you’ve had enough of the snow, check out Hanteo Pony Farm for pony rides, farm animals to pet and fields to explore.

For couples and night-owls, two of Jisan’s slopes stay open past midnight from December 23 to February 12. Glittering lights, crisp air and powder-white snow by moonlight, what could be more romantic?

Jisan Forest Resort is a 40-minute drive from Gangnam, south of Seoul, and served by bus from Incheon International Airport.

For details, visit www.jisanresort. co.kr.

Nanshan Ski Village, Beijing, China Nanshan Ski Village is only a 30-minute drive from the hustle of the Chinese capital. It covers 150,000 hectares and has 21 runs, most of which are rated for beginners and intermediate skiers.

There are plenty of ski school classes available and the instructors speak good English. For thrillseekers, there’s a more challenging mogul field at the top of the runs. You can buy a one-day ski pass for RMB 380 (HK$470).

From Beijing, take the JingCheng Expressway to the Mi Yun Exit 16 and follow signs to Nanshan Ski Village. Visit www.nanshanski.com/english.

Yabuli, China China’s largest skiing area is worth the trek. Yabuli is the main training centre for the Chinese national skiing teams with 18 runs of different levels of difficulty, so there’s a run for everyone from the first-timer to the adrenalin junkie. For those who like a little luxe, Yabuli is also home to Club Med’s first resort in China.

To get there, fly to Harbin or Mudanjiang via Beijing, then catch a train or resort shuttle buses.

Alternatively, travel on an overnight train from Beijing to Yabuli.

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gardening

bloomin' Feeling fruity mad

Wild about orchids

A serial killer of orchids, Liz Remington learns how to keep the blooming plants alive.

I am pleased to say that since last month’s hypochondria scare, life in the garden is back on track. The bougainvillea is gloriously sprouting in unexpected places and I have another crop of bananas on the way.

Sadly, however, the time to enjoy relaxing among the blooms is going to be short-lived. I’ve already sighted the first Christmas decorations of the season and I’m braced to be overwhelmed by good tidings, joy to the world and the inevitable panic over presents, postage and a fear of overcrowded shopping malls.

As I was handing out lemons cut from the tree as leaving gifts for recent guests, I wondered if it would be easier to make all my presents plant-related this year.

The orchid is a magnificent flower and makes a very special gift, although it does come with a certain responsibility, like having a dog. I don’t have a great track record when it comes to orchids.

However, a conversation with Pedro from KK Horticulture dispelled a few orchid myths and produced some good tips for keeping this lovely present in top condition.

I’ve realized I’ve been committing a fatal mistake with my orchid care – anyone with a modicum of nous will be rolling their eyes when they learn I didn’t realize they are dry plants. An orchid extracts water from the atmosphere via the roots, and stores it in its leaves and stems. So zealous watering is

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the equivalent of committing orchid murder – I’ve been drowning the poor plants.

If you are given an orchid, Pedro recommends you check out how much moss is packed round the root ball – too much may trap water and rot the roots. Replace some of the moss with orchid stones if needs be. And snip away any black or brown roots, as they are likely to be rotten. The key to keeping an orchid alive is to water only when the moss is dry.

Orchids need natural light to thrive – electric lights just don't cut the mustard. And make sure the plant is in a pot with a drain hole – if it’s not, only mist the plant, to prevent drownings. Finally don’t be tempted to feed them with extra food or fertilizer, even if it is Christmas.

A good choice of orchid is the oncidium, or Dancing Lady, which has lovely small yellow flowers and blooms twice a year. It can be successfully grafted onto a willing tree trunk when you want to clear some space and bin the pot. The Thai orchid or dendrobium, is another frequent bloomer that enjoys the outdoor lifestyle – or look out for the phalaenopsis or butterfly orchid.

Whatever you may find under your tree this year, may I wish you a happy and bloom-filled Christmas.

If you have any gardening tips or questions please send them to ramblingrose@saikung.com

marketplace Your guide to shops and services

To advertise, email: ads@saikung.com BOOKS

Dymocks Sai Kung 2791-9110

The Reading Room (Sai Kung) 2719-5036 seasidereadingroom@gmail.com

BUILDERS

Yuki International Contractors 9884 5824

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES

Kids Golf - SNAG 2663-3524 kidsgolf@dynevents.com www.dynevents.com Little Hands Workshop 5431-3122 info@littlehands.com.hk www.littlehands.com.hk

CLOTHING

Little Parisians 2147-5506 contact@little-parisians.com www.little-parisians.com Brooks Thompson ltd 2851-3665 iqbalhk@netvigator.com

Carpet

DESIGN

Sai Kung Magazine, magazines and brochures 9811-9526 tom@saikung.com

DINING

Grand Opening Charity Event

Classified 2529-3454 www.classifiedfoodshops.com.hk Hebe One O One 2335-5515 info@101.com.hk www.hebe101.com Ambulance Centre 2735-3355

EMERGENCY

Marine Rescue 2803-6267

ESTATE AGENTS

Hong Kong Sotheby's International Realty 3108-2108 www.hksothebysrealty.com Pricoa Relocation Hong Kong Limited 2822-6663 www.pricoarelocation.com.hk Property Perfect 9754-5967 sue@propertyperfectsolutions.com www.propertyperfectsolutions.com The Property Shop 2719-3977 info@thepropertyshop.com.hk www.thepropertyshop.com.hk

FOOD & WINE

Sai Kung Wellcome Superstore 2791-1841 www.wellcome.com.hk

ads@saikung.com

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Wine Store Info@winestore.com.hk www.winestore.com.hk

GARDENS

Everything Under The Sun 2554-9088 info@everythingunderthesun.com.hk www.everythingunderthesun.com.hk PalmTreeHome (Outdoor furniture supplier) 2264-0416 enquiry@palmtreehome.com.hk www.palmtreehome.com.hk Wicka Design 2422-0885 enquiry@wickadesigns.com www.wickadesigns.com

GIFT EXPERIENCES

Online boutique shop for couples and gifts for her 6653-1545 info@ignite-experience.com www.ignite-experience.com

GOLF

Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course 2791-3388 jckscpgc@kscgolf.org.hk www.kscgolf.org.hk

HANDYMAN

Marco Electrician & Plumber 6190-8051

National Harbour Renovations & Removals 9085-1886 info@nationalharbour.com.hk

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Allure 2792-2123 www.allurebeauty.com.hk

Cambridge Weight Plan Hong Kong 9618-1777 / 9045-5942 www.cambridgeweightplan.hk Curves 2234-9800 www.curveshongkong.com J Fit Studio 6621-2279 www.jfitstudio.weebly.com Professional Acupressure & Foot Reflexology 9725-3628 hk.myblog.yahoo.com/skreflexctr Sabai Day Spa 2791-2259 sabaidspa@sabaidayspa.com www.sabaidayspa.com Seasons Fitness 2878-6288 (Central) / 2995-3009( Kowloon Bay) Sense of Touch 2791-2278 ask@senseoftouchhk.com www.senseoftouch.com.hk

ads@saikung.com

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STRESSED BY YOUR PET?!!!

PET BEHAVIOUR PROBLEMS? Hong Kong’s first and only Behavioural Veterinary Practice can help resolve aggression, fear, anxiety, separation related problems, compulsive disorders, inappropriate toileting, noise phobias etc.

Not all behavioural problems are simply training issues.

Dr. Cynthia Smillie BVM&S PG Dip CABC MRCVS

Tel: 9618 2475 cynthia@petbehaviourhk.com

www.petbehaviourhk.com

bird at my window

Chinese bulbul

a.k.a Pycnonotus sinensis Last month I wrote the red-whiskered bulbul was one of two bulbuls Hong Kong urbanites were likely to recognise. The second is the Chinese bulbul, the most common and widespread species in Hong Kong. The Avifauna of Hong Kong notes, “It is found from urban areas to small outlying islands, and from the top of Tai Mo Shan to sea level at Mai Po.�

Like the red-whiskered bulbul, it can be found in gardens and city parks and sometimes nests in close proximity to man. There is a record from June 1976 of a pair nesting in honeysuckle on the 6th-floor verandah of an apartment block in Mid Levels.

As the name suggests it can be found in southern, central and eastern China, but also occurs in northern Vietnam, Taiwan and the southern Ryukyu Islands in Japan. It is resident throughout most of its range, although northern populations are known to migrate. Numbers in Hong Kong increase in winter and flocks have been observed migrating in spring and autumn.

More than 1,000 birds were seen over the sea near Po Toi island on April 9, 2004, and large flocks of several hundred birds are regularly noted on the same island every November.

David Diskin David Diskin is the author of Hong Kong Nature Walks: The New Territories. Visit www. hknaturewalks.com or www.accipiterpress. com for more information.

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Super Natural nutritional advice 6039-2505 cjonkers@super-natural.info www.super-natural.info Tala’s Health and Beauty Centre 2335-1694 info@talashairandbeautycentre.com www.talashairandbeautycentre.com Zu San Li 2343-1866

HIKES

Walk Hong Kong 9187-8641 walks@walkhongkong.com www.walkhongkong.com

HOME DELIVERIES

Uppity Cupcakes 9526-6207 gileshudson@uppitycupcakes.com www.uppitycupcakes.com

HOME FURNISHINGS

AA Aquarium 2951-9539 service.hk@aa-aquarium.com www.aa-aquarium.com Chez Uno 2791-9662 info@eurocasa.com.hk www.eurocasa.com.hk

Comfort Living Furniture Gallery 2719-7118 / 2719-7138 clfurnituregallery@hotmail.com.hk G.O.D. Ltd. 2791-7122 info@god.com.hk www.god.com.hk Life's A Breeze 2572-4000 info@lifesabreezehk.com www.lifesabreezehk.com Inflatable AquaSpa 6687-0311 www.seafari.com.hk Sai Kung Gallery 2792-3939 saikung.gallery@gmail.com www.saikunggallery.com Taipo Home Centre tphc01@yahoo.com.hk www.tphc.com.hk Tree Limited 2870-1581 info@tree.com.hk www.tree.com.hk

HOTEL

Hyatt Regency Sha Tin 3723-1234 hongkong.shatin@hyatt.com www.hongkong.shatin.hyatt.com

ads@saikung.com

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Photography Courses

INSURANCE

Kwiksure Insurance 3113-1331 sophie.parkington@kwiksure.com www.kwiksure.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

THE XSS Limited 2739-8893 enquiry@thexss.com www.thexss.com

Investment

Lifestyle Brokers 3115-7620 / 3115-7617 nfo@lfsbrokers.com / info@lfsinsurance.com www.lfsbrokers.com / www.lfsproperty.com

Spend a day on location with Jackie Peers & your camera from bustling market place to the tranquillity of an abandoned village.

Groups are small, and customised to meet each person’s needs.

You can join a group, arrange your own small group or choose a private tour for one.

Prices are available for each.

Contact jackie@jackiepeers.com www.jackiepeers.com mobile 9121 1470

KEYHOLDERS

Keyholder-Services.com 9471-0608 / 2620-1588 enquiries@keyholder-services.com www.keyholder-services.com

MOVERS

AGS Four Winds International Movers 2885-9666 manager.hongkong@agsfourwinds.com www.agsfourwinds.com Elite Movers & Decoration 8209-1793 elite930@hotmail.com www.emdhk.com Expert-Transport & Relocations Warehouse 2566-4799 www.expertmover.hk FTC Logistics HK Ltd 2814-1658 www.ftc.hk sales@ftc.hk Warehouse Removals-Local & International Moving service 9125-2611 warehouse_removals@hotmail.com

PARTY DECORATIONS

dZONa Design Limited 9711-5481 chamwp@gmail.com

PEST CONTROL

Biocycle (Hong Kong) Ltd. 3575-2575 info@biocycle.com www.biocycle.com.hk

Christian Environmental Health 2370-9236 a-s-a-p@ceh.com.hk www.ceh.com.hk Hong Kong Ships' Fumigation Co., Ltd. 2891-2730 / 2891-9907 info@hkshipsfumigation.com www.hkshipsfumigation.com

PETS & VETS

Animal Behaviour Vet Practice 9618-2475 cynthia@petbehaviourhk.com www.petbehaviourhk.com Best Friends Veterinary Hospital 2792-8555 Dr Carmel Taylor MVB MRCVS DipAiCVD 2549-2330 www.cutaneous.com.hk

ads@saikung.com

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Faith International Enterprise Limited www.k9natural.com.hk Ferndale Kennel 2792-4642 boarding@ferndalekennels.com www.ferndalekennels.com Kennel van Dego 2792-6889 kennelvd@biznetvigator.com www.kennelvandego.com Pets Central Sai Kung Hospital 2792-0833 info@pets-central.com www.pets-central.com Whiskers 'N Paws 2552-6200 www.wnp.com.hk

PHOTOGRAPHY

Graham Uden Photography 9195-7732 uden@netvigator.com grahamuden.com Jackie Peers 9121-1470 jackie@jackiepeers.com www.jackiepeers.com

PRE-SCHOOLS

New Song Christian Kindergarten (Sai Kung) 2791-2472 newsong@netvigator.com www.newsonghk.com Woodland Group 2813-0290 saikung@woodlandschools.com www.woodlandschools.com

RECRUITMENT

Magnadea 3975-3338 info@magnadea.com www.magnadea.com

ads@saikung.com

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SCHOOLS

Hong Kong Academy 2655-1111 office@hkacademy.edu.hk www.hkacademy.edu.hk Hong Lok Yuen International School 2658-6935 info@hlyis.edu.hk www.hlyis.edu.hk Kellett School 2551-8234 kellett@kellettschool.com www.kellettschool.com

SPORTS

Hong Kong International Tennis Academy 9048-2810 lea.lai@hkita.com www.hkita.com Marine Divers info@marinedivers.com www.marinedivers.com Sai Kung Stingrays paul_white@cathaypacific.com saikungstingrays.com

Toys

Hocusadabra 2544-6835 info@hocusadabra.com www.hocusadabra.com Tickitey Boo / Online store info@tickitey-boo.com www.tickitey-boo.com

TRAVEL

Concorde Travel 2526-3391 info@concorde-travel.com www.concorde-travel.com Webjet HK onlinetravel@webjet.com.hk www.webjet.com.hk

ads@saikung.com

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TUITION

Ace Ltd. 9306-3967 vandana@aceltd.com.hk Antsmart Learning pro@playgroup.com.hk www.playgroup.com.hk E.nopi Maths 2335-1261 www.enopi.com HK Institute of Languages 2877-6160 info@hklanguages.com www.hklanguages.com Jumpstart Mandarin Learning Centre 2791-4838 jumpstart@netvigator.com www.jumpstartmlc.com La Petite France Ltd 2791-0082 www.lapetitfrance.com.hk Sai Kung English 6907-2514 info@saikungenglish.com www.saikungenglish.com Sai Kung Tutors 6907-2514 info@saikungtutors.com www.saikungtutors.com

WORSHIP

Resurrection Church 2358-3232 www.resurrection.org.hk

YOGA

Gecko Yoga for kids 6973-1792 info@geckoyoga.com www.geckoyoga.com Yoyo Yu 9302-3931 www.yoyoyoga.net To list your business in our new directory, or to guarantee a listing every month, please email ads@saikung.com

on patrol...

Join the Neighbourhood Watch Only Santa can gets in

It’s a busy time for many companies as they rush to meet deadlines at the end of a year. For police officers, too, it is a peak season in preventing crime. While most people are enjoying shopping sprees, going out to parties or going abroad during the festive season, criminals are looking for opportunities.

With Christmas and New Year coming, people usually keep more cash or jewellery at home ready for various functions they are attending. Unfortunately, these valuables are often not kept in a secure safe, or the house is not properly protected with security devices, such as an intruder alarm, closed-circuit TV, light sensors, strong window frames and reliable locks.

Although Hong Kong is a safe city to live in, we should make every effort to further reduce crime. In reality, those who are sensible about their home security succeed in driving burglars away, and those who take less care may become victims of crimes.

Moreover, villages are less vulnerable to criminals when there are more alert neighbours who are willing to come forward to the police either by phone or in person. The effectiveness of good neighbours, who keep an eye out for strangers or

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suspicious activity, is astonishing.

We understand one party alone is not enough to promote a sense of home security. That’s why the police has the assistance of the Sai Kung Neighbourhood Watch coordinators, expatriate residents who have been living in Sai Kung for a long time. They have been very helpful in passing on the message to their friends and neighbours. I appreciate their valuable contribution, and thank them from the bottom of my heart.

In order to make the scheme even more effective, we are also inviting local residents and domestic helpers to join us. Large posters will be appearing on village notice boards asking you “Not to be a Silent Witness” accompanied by a logo of two Chinese words that mean “Neighbourhood Watch”, which is also the essence of maintaining low crime.

We wish you and your families a Merry Christmas!

Senior Inspector Grace Mak Assistant Divisional Commander (Operations) Sai Kung Police Division

I'm a villa house sites in a peaceful area: walking distance to Bangtao & Surin beach. 3 bedrooms (2 with view) + 2 living rooms With private pool. www.PhuketVillaSurin.com We recommend for couples or families with young kids. email to phuketvillasurin@ gmail.com

SEA VIEW GARDEN HOUSE SOLE AGENT $50K / 18.8M 3 Bedroom Family Home with Gorgeous Sea Views, Lawn Garden & Shared Pool. New Décor, Fully Equipped Kitchen & Great Bathrooms.

High Ceilings. 2 c/p. Convenient Location close to Sai Kung Town. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 C-027656

WATER’S EDGE SOLE AGENT $88K / 32M Unique Waterfront 4 Bedroom Family Home. Stunning location. Extremely rare on the market. Large terrace leading to infinity pool. Great for entertaing. www.thepropertyshop. com.hk 27193977 C-027656

EXECUTIVE RESIDENCE SILVERSTRAND $125K / 62M Exceptionally Large Detached, 5 Bedroom Villa. Super High Ceilings.

2 Kitchens, Separate Living, Dining, Family, Study & Entertainment Rooms.

Terrace & Lawn Garden. Garage. Sea Views. www. thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 C-027656

STUNNING SEA VIEWS SOLE AGENT $55K 4 Bed Family Home. High Ceilings, Lots of Storage. Covered C/p. Children’s Playground. Good Management. Stroll to Sai Kung Town. Great Value ~ Must See www. thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 C-027656

PHUKET LUXURY FAMILY APARTMENT. Club Lersuang apartment. Sleeps 5. Great value. Master bedroom, 2nd bedroom (3 single beds), self-contained, fully fitted kitchen, pool, gym, restaurant. Visit www.tripadvisor.com and search “Club Lersuang” to see amazing reviews. E-mail: paul_stocker88@hotmail.com

WHISTLER HOLIDAY RENTAL 4 Bedrooms in Brio cul-de-sac. Walking distance to Whistler Village and 2 minute drive to kids ski camp.

Sleeps 10 plus helpers room. Modern kitchen, laundry, hot tub, internet and cable. Mountain views and backyard for snowball fights.

Email s.crozier@me.com http://www.vrbo.com/261825#photos

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Want to buy or sell your cars or boats?

Place your ad here. classifieds@saikung.com

Charities/Community Box of Hope www..boxofhope. org Children helping Children in need. Wrap and fill a shoe box with useful/educational gifts and drop it off at SKIP www.skip.edu.hk between 7-10 November. The boxes will be delivered to underprivileged children in Hong Kong and Asia in time for Christmas. For further information call 27917354.

DOG FOOD SPONSORS Sai Kung Stray Friends monthly dog food costs are $5,556 p/mth. On our meal supply is approximately 35 dogs.

If you would like to help please deposit directly into our a/c: HSBC 004-640-085-486-001 Receipts can be issued. Much appreciated!

DONATE CLOTHES, SHOES, BOOKS, toys and electrical appliances in good condition. Reach out to help the poor and disadvantaged men, women and children in our communities. All profits help the needy in Hong Kong and mainland China. Collection hotline: 2716 8778.

Donation hotline: 2716 8862. Website: www.christian-action.org.hk Blog: http://siewmei.cahk.org Email: ca@ christian-action.org.hk

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GIVE A FEW HOURS of your time to Sai Kung Stray Friends. If you want to do something worthwhile come and help at our holding facility. Any day or time suitable to you. Various tasks, sweeping, cleaning, dog walking, paddock Mum or just providing some love to the dogs. Dads are welcome too for mowing duty! Email: saikungstrayfriendshk@gmail.com

German Kids in Sai Kung Provide your children and toddlers with German language activities for their age, contact our Sai Kung German parents community for playgroups, lessons, and more. Contact: Uli, u.gast@egdshk.org

Enthusiastic tennis players of all abilities sort!

Mondays and Wednesdays 9-10 at Sai Kung courts-near the swimming pool.

Keep fit and meet new people at the same time. Just turn up and have fun!

New Song Christian Kindergarten Floral Villas, Commercial Area, 18 Tso Wo Road, Tso Wo Hang, Sai Kung.

T : 2791 2472 F : 2791 2477 Email : newsong@netvigator.com Website : www.newsonghk.com

WORKING TEAM: Sai Kung Stray Friends needs to establish a fundraising team who can be focused on ideas to help us raise donations to support our work to help the stray dogs and carry out desexing to decrease the breeding. We receive donations from our weekend homing sessions but it is insufficient to support our expenses of food, kennel costs and medical.. Lets make fundraising fun with some social events! Please register your talent & ideas. Email: saikungstrayfriendshk@gmail.com 2896 0000 The Samaritans 24 hour Multilingual Suicide Prevention Hotline. Problems? Depressed?

Lonely? Desperate? Need an empathic, non-judgemental listening ear in complete confidence? Bereaved

by Suicide? We facilitate an English speaking monthly support group.

Please call 2896 0000 or email: jo@ samaritans.org.hk SAI KUNG WATERCOLOR SOCIETY: Locations around Sai Kung town, villages and country park. Watercolour, drawing, or other medium. All levels welcome. Free, just bring your own equipment.

Meetings will mostly take place on Saturday mornings once or twice a month. Please see www.hkcolours. typepad.com/ or contact Laetitia at saikungcolours@gmail.com

NEW SONG CHRISTIAN KINDERGARTEN , Sai Kung T: 2791 2471 F: 2791 2477 Email: newsong@netvigator.com Website: www.newsonghk.com FINANICAL HELP NEEDED to purchase kennel facility for Sai Kung Stray Friends. Please Call Narelle, 9199.2340

Improve Your Body Shape Personal Training with Jenny Poon Phone:66212279 www.jfitstudio.weebly.com 1H, Po Lo Che, Sai Kung Fitness For Life

PROFESSIONAL ACUPRESSURE & FOOT REFLEXOLOGY: Established in 2000, professional training staff. We do provide Door-to-Door service in a very reasonable price. G/F., 7 Main Street, Sai Kung. Reservation: 97253628. hk.myblog.yahoo.com/skreflexctr No need to go to Central...

Cambridge Weight Plan is in Sai Kung and CWB. We help you create an easy-to-manage daily diet plan and provide motivation and support every step of the way. Call our friendly local consultants today! Alison Barnes 9618 1777 Jean Hudson 9045 5942 www. cambridgeweightplan.hk

ENERGETIC BODY: for everyday living and sporting with PILATES. Please call 91024975 or email mira. juntunen@gmail.com for private and group classes in Sai Kung, also at your home.

Gecko Yoga S: Children's Yoga Teacher : Hatha RYT200 & Radiant Child Yoga Program (RCYP) Facilitator- Kundalini L: English T: +852 6973 1792 E: info@geckoyoga.com W: www.geckoyoga.com Personal nutritional coach in Sai Kung/CWB. Tailor-made nutritional advice for a healthy lifestyle & weight management. Contact Christine Jonkers for more info: cjonkers@supernatural.info or 60392505

Domestic Help

Home Deliveries

Our family is moving back to the US in October and we have a wonderful helper to recommend. She’s very reliable and wonderful with small children. She would like to stay in the Clearwater Bay/Sai Kung area.

If you are interested please contact Rosana at 97942384.

Award winning wines from Australia and New Zealand, highest quality, lowest prices directly from the winery to your door! Visit us at www.winestore.com.hk or email justin@winestore.com.hk.

Are u looking for Driver, Gardener? ADONIS CANEDO, 33 years old, working in Hongkong for 2 years. Pls contact 5133 9984.

Expert-Transport & Relocations MOVER* HANDYMAN*STORAGE Local & International Relocation, Packing, Materials Supply Cargo Collection, Custom Clearance, Disposal Storage (Short or Long Term), Professional House Painting. All sort of Handyman Works, All-in one Professional Service at Lowest Rates Call 25664799, www.expertmover.hk

Super helper/driver looking for a job in Sai Kung. Excellent driver, great with kids, dogs, gardening and handyman jobs. Excellent ref from previous employer. Please contact Shantha, 6701 1512

Employment TREE, Hong Kong’s first ecochic furniture boutique, is looking for the right member to join our fabulous sales team in Sai Kung!

If you have: · experience in retail and/or interior design · a passion for meeting people and giving the best shopping and after sales service · a friendly and positive attitude · strong spoken Cantonese, Mandarin and English preferable then we would love to hear from you!

Please email your CV to hr@tree. com.hk Maths Tutor Needed. Native English speaker with international experience teaching primary and secondary students. Part-time in Sai Kung with excellent remuneration.

Phone Sean on 69072514.

Administrator / PA Part-time / Full-Time / FlexiTime A job as fun and fulfilling as you make it.

We need you to support Management in all areas of a growing enterprise. A Career Opportunity without the 2 piece suite - or a part-time job - you decide!

Fluency in English. Cantonese beneficial. Head Office in Sai Kung. Please email CV and Salary expectation. service@coolbanana.com.hk

CONCORDE TRAVEL CONSULTANTS – Leisure Travel specialists since 1978 See www.concorde-travel.com Tel: 2526 3391 Licence No 350343

East Coast Marine - Affordable Yacht Charters. Step up from a Junk and enjoy luxury on your next Sai Kung adventure. Starting at $7,880 for day trips - 26 people capacity. www.eastcoastmarine.000a.biz, eastcoastmarine.hk@gmail.com, +8526476-6530 HKMacs: British Macintosh Specialist 20 yrs experience + Apple Certification.

Personalised training, software installation/upgrades, computer set-up and parental controls. Networking, troubleshooting and data recovery. iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad management and Lion Server set-up. PC switchers welcome! Call Vince Loden Mobile: 9348 6884, Office: 2982 4274, Email: info@hkmacs.com. Website, Blog: hkmacs.com. Facebook: www. facebook.com/HKMacs Computer Repair - Professional, friendly computer specialist available to help with any computer related problems at home or in the office. Call Jan Boshoff 6403 6623, jan@edge-technology.net.

WWW.KEYHOLDER-SERVICES.COM For peace of mind use KeyholderServices while away from Hong Kong.

We will conduct regular checks and related services, call outs, emergency repair, liaison with alarm companies/ police. See Website for full range of services. Or call Jeff on 9471 0608 or email enquiries@keyholder-services.com

Piano Lesson @ HOME in English/ Cantonese by professional and qualified teachers. Annual Recital in Cityhall. Trial lessons available, visit www.grandpiano.hk for details.

ART Classes for all ages above 6. Small groups of less than 6.

Classes of 90 minutes each. Whether you are a beginner or looking for something different. All in a nice homely surrounding in Clearwaterbay with parking and access to public transport.

Please call Vandana at 93063967 or vandana@aceltd.com.hk for details.

Wanted LITTLE HANDS Recycled Art Workshop We want your garbage!!

We will come pick up all your old, pots, cans, bottles, books, clothes.......

Please call us at 54313122

FOR SALE Ready-to-run English language learning center for sale in Clearwater Bay. Sale includes all education materials, toys, story books, art & stationary supplies, copier, furniture and so on.

Current lease is very reasonable and can be negotiated on your behalf if required.

For inquiries please call: 61039577

Motoring European Motors Ltd of Sai Kung, established in 1975 serving the local community for buying and selling quality used cars. Commission sales or cash up front. We have our own workshop and mechanic - as we say - ' we dont just wash them and sell them'! 3 month's parts and labour warranty included with each car. Only good and straight cars, normally with service history to show, dealt with so if selling or buying, please drop by our showroom across the main road from the Police Station or call 9027 4846.

Opening hours are flexible / early / late.

Paul Gross (English and Cantonese spoken) - since 1975.

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back page

Last Orders McChristmas

With many Hong Kong public holidays determined by the lunar calendar, their positioning within each new Gregorian year can appear somewhat random. These seemingly arbitrary dates never quite get hard-wired into the brain so it’s a pleasant surprise when a working week is interrupted by an unanticipated bun festival. In a contemporary capitalist society, it is increasingly these holiday tidbits that provide the “opium of the masses” and not organised religion as suggested by Karl Marx.

Systems vary around the world but subtle control of the work force has always been the aim of national public holidays. Britain, the birthplace of Adam Smith and the source of modern economic thought, punctuates the year with bank holidays. Ironically rewarding the fat cats responsible for the world’s current economic woes with more time on the golf course while everyone else carries on working to pay their way out of negative equity.

In the US – where former employees of the defunct Lehman Brothers have been enjoying the ultimate bank holiday – the evangelical Christian right has yet to hijack the national calendar as it has the political debate. So public

holidays still revolve around the birthdays of assassinated politicians, tub-thumping independence celebrations and the mass poultry slaughter that is Thanksgiving.

But the most significant unifying holiday event for the non-Muslim world is Christmas. It has public holiday status in countries as diverse as Latvia, Burkina Faso, Fiji and Paraguay. More than ever celebrated as a materialistic, end-of-year, Santa-themed gift festival, Christmas has evolved into the holiday equivalent of a Big Mac. The fasting of Ramadan and the deprivations of Lent simply can’t compete with the convenience, predictability and calorific value of a super-sized secular Christmas.

The entertaining spiritual vacuum in the build up to December 25 is as important as the event itself.

Office parties give closure to the toil of another working year, providing a platform from which to insult or grope your colleagues.

The season of goodwill rises to a crescendo of overeating, drinking and merriment, with aggressive advertising whipping consumers into a frenzy of activity that engorges overdrafts, waistbands and carbon footprints to record sizes. And just when it seems to be all over,

photo competition Submit your shots Here at the Sai Kung Magazine office, we love receiving beautiful pictures of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay from our readers.

Each month we give readers the chance to have their photos published. To enter, simply email your best shots of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay, along with a brief description, to photo@saikung. com. A winner will be chosen every month and their photo will be printed in the next issue of Sai Kung Magazine. Get snapping!

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This Month’s Winner: Sheila Ann Peralta My boyfriend, Terry and I like hiking to Yau Ley to satisfy our seafood cravings.

We been there loads of time and every time I see this view from the reservoir it still blows my mind. It's just breathtaking. It is definitely unique to Sai Kung. I love this town! Let's keep it clean and green!

along comes Boxing Day, a festival of vague Christian origin that now provides the ultimate decadence: a day of grace in which to detoxify and sober up before returning to work.

These Christmas festivities seem rather shallow, and it’s easy to feel superior to those having their photographs taken with a giant plastic Christmas tree in an air-conditioned shopping mall. But is this any more misguided than celebrating the birth of a self-proclaimed prophet supposedly born to a virgin mother knocked up by an omnipresent deity? That the Christian Orthodox and Catholic churches can’t even agree on a date for Christmas undermines their credibility somewhat.

So after a boardroom battle of biblical proportions, Santa Claus has finally replaced Jesus Christ as the CEO of Christmas.com.

Furthermore, we know Mr Claus exists because we’ve seen him in Festival Walk, MegaBox, IFC Mall and Harbour Plaza. Now that’s omnipresence.

Iain Lafferty

shoot for it