FAMILY | SUMMER | DETOX | TATE’S CAIRN
JULY 2020
Get wavey At these beachside
Brendan Fitzpatrick Moves into his Wong Chuk Hang studio
restaurants
Selina Kong’s BIG idea Keeping the kids entertained all summer long
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The really useful magazine July 2020
2 CONTRIBUTORS Meet the team
22 DINING
16
Beachside dining. Plus nibbles
6 PEOPLE
26 HEALTH & BEAUTY
Southsiders out and about
8 THE PLANNER What’s on in July
The best detox treatments this summer
28 BIG DAY OUT Rory Mackay hikes Tate’s Cairn
12 NEWS
31 SOUTHSIDE SECRETS
What’s happening in our backyard
14 FIVE MINUTES WITH Brendan Fitzpatrick, award-winning figurative artist
The grisly history of Stanley Prison
32 PETS Dr Pauline on the responsibilities of a dog owner. Plus walkies
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16 MUST HAVES THIS MONTH 36 ZIM CITY Your summer essentials
18 COVER STORY
Paul Zimmerman on improving Hong Kong’s waterfronts
Meet Selina Kong, founder of The Big Things. Plus entertaining kids this summer
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31 CAUSE A LITTLE BIT OF SUMMER IS WHAT THE WHOLE YEAR IS ALL ABOUT - JOHN MAYER
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I
editor’s letter
f there’s one season that makes Southside shine, it’s summer. Whether you’re relaxing at Repulse Bay or overlooking the ocean views from Dragon’s Back, Southside gives any topical location a run for its money. While Hong Kong gears up for a travel restricted summer, you can sit back and enjoy what’s right on our doorstep. Our cover star this month is Selina Kong, founder of play centre and kitchen The Big Things. After a difficult few months, she is ready to welcome parents and children back into the centre for a summer of fun. Read all about her tips for keeping children entertained on page 18. No summer is complete without a boozy beachside dinner, so we’ve rounded up the best local and farout beach bars to tick off your bucket list this season on page 22. When it all gets a bit too much, treat yourself to a detox at some of the city’s most relaxing locations. From facials to mud wraps, you can find your zen in the city over on page 26. Take advantage of what this wonderful city has to offer, you’ll never have a summer like this again.
Editorial Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Editorial Director Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Senior Staff Writer Charmaine Ng, charmaineng@hongkongliving.com Contributing Editor Melanie Cox, melanie@hongkongliving.com
Design Graphic Designer Vicky Lam, vicky@hongkongliving.com Alvin Cheng, alvin@hongkongliving.com
Sales & Marketing Director of Content Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Head of Digital Content Isamonia Chui, isamonia@hongkongliving.com Partnership Manager Chrissie Ip, chrissie@hongkongliving.com Elaine Li, elaine@hongkongliving.com
Digital Digital Editor Apple Lee, apple@hongkongliving.com
Publisher
Things we love
Matt Eaton, matt@hongkongliving.com
Founding Director Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com
Thanks to Paul Zimmerman Matt Lough
Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
Afternoon tea on the go
Breezy staycations
British department store Fortnum & Mason is offering a new takeaway option for its signature baked scones. Pick up a box and enjoy them from the comfort of your own home or office. fortnumandmason.com
Harbourside hotel K11’s summer staycation package is the perfect weekend escape from the city. The package includes breakfast, afternoon tea set, a personal training session and access to the pool and gym. hk.k11.com
HONG KONG hongkongliving.com
Stay strong Hong Kong
You may have noticed that we’re at a reduced number of pages. These are tough times for everyone and just like other small businesses in Hong Kong, we are rationing. Hopefully things will return to normal soon. For now, we’ve squeezed the same great content into this slightly smaller issue. We hope it fills you with positivity for this great city in which we live.
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Photo credit: Gervin Cheng
Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong
Southside Magazine is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Southside Magazine cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.
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contributors
Thank you to our contributors
Alvin Cheng Alvin is an experienced graphic designer who has worked on Hong Kong publications including HK Magazine, New Travel Magazine and Kee Magazine. He is also heavily involved in the fitness scene and is a NASM certified trainer. Using both sides of his brain helps Alvin maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Alec Lastimosa Joining the Hong Kong Living team this month is third-year Hong Kong Baptist University student Alec. He is currently studying journalism with a sub-degree in media and communications. This month he met award-winning figurative artist Brendan Fitzpatrick to discuss his new Wong Chuk Hang studio. Read all about it on page 14.
Karin Bremer Dutch-Australian photographer Karin runs photography company “Karin Bremer Photography”, offering a range of photography services including family portraits, events and commercial product services. This month she headed over to Stanley to snap all your smiley faces, check them out on page 6. karinbremer.com
Paul Zimmerman Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, the co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks and Southern District Councillor of Pok Fu Lam. In his column this month, he suggests how Hong Kong can make the most out of its waterfronts on page 36.
Rory Mackay Avid hiker and thrill-seeker, Rory owns adventure company Wild Hong Kong. This month he hikes over Tate’s Cairn in our Big Day Out. Read all about his route on page 28. wildhongkong.com
Dr Pauline Taylor Pauline is a senior vet at Pets Central and specialises in small animal medicine. She graduated in Scotland and spent 10 years practicing in New Zealand before moving to Hong Kong with her various four-legged family members. Pauline answers your pet queries on page 32. pets-central.com
Want to write for Southside Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com SOUTHSIDE | 5
people Snaps from Southside
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say cheese
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planner
JUL 3
Expert Series: Taste like a Master with Debra Meiburg MW
Master of Wine, Debra Meiburg shares the trusted techniques used by the world’s top wine professionals in a unique workshop. 7-9pm. $750. MWM Wine School, 9/F, Aberdeen Industrial Building, 236 Aberdeen Main Road. mwminternational.com
meditation and a light breakfast at a local organic farm on Lamma Island every Saturday in July. 8.15-10am. $250. vatayogaretreat.com
JUL 5
Porgy and Bess The Foundation of Arts and Music in Asia presents the James Robinson production of Porgy and Bess. 5pm. $200. Béthanie Theatre, HKAPA Béthanie Landmark Heritage Campus, Pok Fu Lam. premier.hkticketing.com
UNTIL JUL 19
JUL 1
A diverse presentation of artwork by 31 shortlisted artists from across the Asia-Pacific region. Visitors will be invited to cast a vote for their favourite artist until July 12. Free. L2, K11 ATELIER, 728 King’s Road, Quarry Bay. sovereignartfoundation.com
Let’s start the month off with a public holiday.
The 2020 Sovereign Asian Finalists Exhibition
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Special Administrative Region Establishment Day
JUL 4 - 25
Organic Farm with Ayurveda Yoga & Breakfast Start your weekend with Ayurveda yoga,
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what’s on JUL 6
JUL 19
Hit the trails by Bowen Road on the first Monday of each month with resident running coach, Mark Herman. 8-10am. Free. Meet at the hotel entrance. The Upper House, 88 Queensway, Admiralty. upperhouse.com
Craving adventure? The XTE Challenge Series is organising an action-packed race through some of nature’s wondrous places. From $200. Kam Shan Country Park. xterace.com
The Upper House Running Club
Spring Race
writers. $25. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. hkbookfair.hktdc.com
JUL 7
World Chocolate Day You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy chocolate.
JUL 15-21
HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair Attention all bookworms - the Hong Kong Book Fair is back with book deals, compelling conferences and seminars featuring famous
BOOK NOW
JUL 15-21
HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo Get your health tips at the Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo, with a variety of fitness and bodybuilding equipment available to try. 10am-8pm. $25. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. event.hktdc.com
Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editorial@hongkongliving.com
AUG 17
Gin Festival HK Sample over 100 varieties of gin and learn how gin is made from professional distillers and ambassadors. 1pm-9pm. $190. Renaissance Hotel, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. ginfestival.asia
SEP 18-20
Rotten Head Festival
AUG 22
Tigershead GreenRace The first of two recess for Tigershead GreenRace, spanning 16km around Lantau Island, 9am-1pm. $830. Mui Wo Ferry Pier, Lantau Island. runnerreg.com
Jam to 20 live music acts and sip on a range of local craft beers at the family-friendly music festival. 5pm-10pm and 11am-6pm. From $150. Hong Kong Observation Wheel, Central. rottenheadfest.com
SEP 22-27
Hong Kong International Jazz Festival Jazz it up. Jazz musicians from Hong Kong and the globe are ready to jam out. 7pm. $200. Hong Kong City Hall, 5 Edinburgh Place, Central. hkijf.com
AUG 13-17
HKTDC Food Expo 2020 Sample international cuisines at affordable prices across three large halls. Opening hours vary depending on the hall you visit. $40. Hong Kong Convention Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. event-hktdc.com
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news
HOLIDAY AT HOME OCEAN PARK REOPENS In response to the coronavirus outbreak, many governments have implemented travel restrictions, which means any idea of an overseas vacation is out of the question at the moment. Luckily, it is not difficult to find joy travelling within Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has recently launched the “Holiday at Home” campaign to encourage Hongkongers to be a tourist in their own city and to view Hong Kong with a new perspective. The campaign has received great support from the tourism, retail and dining industries, which are working together to boost local consumption. “By encouraging local tourism, we hope to rebuild the city’s vibrant atmosphere and give the world a positive impression so that visitors will feel confident about coming to Hong Kong again,” says HKTB Chairman Dr YK Pang. discoverhongkong.com
LIFE IN HONG KONG RESUMES After months of social-distancing restrictions and ‘quarantini’ happy hours at home, life in Hong Kong is getting back to its regular programming schedule. Hongkongers can now gather in groups of up to 50 people for weddings and other large-scale events. Bars, pubs and nightclub restrictions have also been eased, along with those for live entertainment.
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After months of closure, Ocean Park resumed operations in mid-June with a series of precautionary measures to safeguard the health and safety of visitors. An array of local resident exclusive offers have launched, alongside a brand new edutainment experience titled Redd’s 5 Senses Discovery. Adding on to that, an exciting new animal exhibit, Little Meerkat & Giant Tortoise
Adventure, is scheduled for unveiling later this month. Meanwhile, the Giant Panda Adventure remains closed temporarily to allow staff to focus on taking great care of pandas Ying Ying and Le Le, who succeeded in natural mating for the first time. Ocean Park currently opens six days a week, except Tuesdays, until July 31. For more information, visit oceanpark.com.hk
in your backyard
PEAK TRAM TO RESCHEDULE SECOND SERVICE SUSPENSION The Peak Tramway has recently announced that the second phase of its tram service suspension originally scheduled for autumn, will now commence in 2021. The delay is due to the outbreak of Covid-19, which has negatively impacted The Peak Tram’s overhaul in terms of the sourcing of materials and production delays in
Asia and Europe. Although postponed, the entire upgrade project is still planned to be completed in the same year, 2021. Meanwhile, the muchloved Peak Tram remains open for business and with new special packages for local residents. thepeak.com.hk
BEACHES ARE BACK More good news just in time for the sweltering summer months. Beaches, parks and libraries have reopened. A handful of our most beloved swimming spots, including Big Wave Bay, Silverstrand Beach and Trio Beach have opened, along with Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park and Kowloon Park. Time to dust off that picnic basket.
NEW WORLD DEVELOPMENT’S ‘MASK TO GO’ DISPENSERS START SERVICE Since the outbreak of the coronavirus, New World Development (NWD) has launched a series of relief measures. Building its own mask production lines in Hong Kong with an aim to produce 7 million masks per month for distribution, its much-anticipated “Mask To Go” dispensers began service in May. This creative initiative
enables 40,000 pre-registered beneficiaries to collect a free pack of five medical masks over 10 consecutive weeks. The masks are available at 37 designated centres run by NGOs across all 18 of Hong Kong’s districts, easing citywide anxiety about the shortage of masks. nwd.com.hk
PLASTIC WITH PURPOSE Hong Kong-based company Rupert & Bird has introduced a new line of eco-friendly towels. Each towel is created from recycled plastic bottles, equaling to an overwhelming 22 bottles per towel. This fresh line breathes new air to six eyecatching designs with its first collection devoted to Hong Kong. rupertandbird.com
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five minutes with
Five minutes with
Brendan Fitzpatrick 14 | SOUTHSIDE
Alec Lastimosa talks to the award-winning figurative artist in his new Wong Chuk Hang studio
brendan fitzpatrick I returned to Hong Kong in the summer of last year. I wanted to reconnect with my family’s Cantonese roots and take part in Hong Kong’s growing art scene.
If I couldn’t do this as my job, I would work to make sure that I could paint. I’m lucky to have the business side of what I do, which includes portraits.
Coming back was both nostalgic and comforting. It still feels like the Hong Kong I remember, but the people keep growing and the sights keep expanding (the rent prices keep getting higher too).
The biggest challenge is holding myself to a harsher lens because I can be self critical at times. I occasionally take up projects that allow me to take a break, like painting landscapes and do other things I can allow myself to enjoy and at the same time, constantly do better and better.
The commercial art scene here just has a natural attraction for me. It’s growing and being able to be a part of something that is new and flourishing was an opportunity I just wanted to pull myself into. Not only has interest in the market increased but also art as a cultural expression. I hope there will be more institutions and collectives coming up. I want people to be able to nurture the talents or ideas of theirs and allow them to flourish and have the spaces to do so. I want to bridge the gap between the East and West. When you have an international city with people stacked on top of each other, the fusion of cultures helps forge new approaches and brings something interesting to the table.
Each interaction adds on layer to the painting. As more glazes and varnishes are added, it brings even more depth to a deeper and more fleshed out narrative in the piece.
I have to be my own manager at times. It’s something that you don’t get a lot of training for in art school. I’m lucky that my partner helps me out because she’s a lot more collective than I am. I prefer to do my portraits live as much as possible. Directly painting from life through the interactions with my subjects brings so much more life and movement in the piece. The images I create are a summary of every experience I have with the sitter.
Southside provides the best conditions for my line of work. I needed a north-facing studio as north lights are the best to paint under, I can monitor the colours and tones so they don’t vary too much. Wong Chuk Hang has the perfect harmony. It’s a studio that is viable to use as an artist especially in the way I work and is also accessible for my clients to get to.
For more information or to book an appointment for Brendan’s commission portrait consultation or portrait modelling session, visit brendanfitzpatrickart.com
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must haves this month
Life’s a beach Your summer essentials. By Nicole Slater
Floral escape malachite wrap bracelet $1,008 from Anthea Cooper antheacooper.com
Manarai one-piece swimsuit $349 from Black Coral xo blackcoralxo.com Amazonite midi wrap ring $426 from Anthea Cooper antheacooper.com
Pom Pom straw bag $359 from Black Coral xo blackcoralxo.com
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beach bums
Eric Javits raffia fringe floppy hat $2,940 from Lane Crawford lanecrawford.com.hk
Tied flat leather sandals with jute $399 from Zara zara.com/hk
Sunkissed bottle $270 from S’well swell.com
Eco beach towel $380 from Rupert and Bird rupertandbird.com
Orange gold babani cover up $11,626 from Marie France Van Damme mariefrancevandamme.com
Active pink sunscreen 110ml $129 from Cancer Council Australia cancercouncilshop.org.au Sampans at sunset $1,000 from Mazu Resortwear mazuresortwear.com
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cover story
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A BIG summer of fun
Selina Kong shares her tips for keeping the kids entertained this summer. By Nicole Slater
W
ith quarantine restrictions in place, many Hongkongers will be staying in the city over the summer holidays. Founder of The Big Things Selina Kong shares how the themed playground can keep everyone happy and busy over the holidays. What was your inspiration behind The Big Things? When I first had my daughter Scarlett, I travelled with her a lot and spent much of our time in playgrounds and parks. As a mum, I always felt that it would be wonderful if there was a playground centred around nature. In Hong Kong, it’s difficult for young children to explore wildlife, so I created The Big Things playground which encourages child development through play and uses sustainable materials in an effort to be environmentally friendly. Our cooking studio soon followed, serving creative Asian comfort food.
Can you tell us a little more about your cooking studio? What makes our cooking programmes unique is the fact that our students cook all the dishes from scratch. For example, when making seafood chowder, we teach everything from how to choose the right fish and deboning it, followed by how to create a delicious chowder with pan-fried fish fillet. Our classes have proven to be very popular with both kids and adults. Do you have any advice to keep a positive atmosphere at home during the summer holidays? The last six months have been very challenging with everyone spending more
selina kong time together in small spaces, so it’s important to keep things varied and get outside as much as possible. Keeping busy and active will help to create a positive mindset. How have you and your company coped over the last six months? In an effort to maintain safety, we closed the playground for a month. We have increased our sanitary procedures to make sure that upon reopening, families were protected as much as possible. We also utilised the time that the playground was closed to launch our healthy bento delivery service. This has been a very exciting process and couldn’t be more relevant to people’s lives right now since health is so important. Learn more about The Big Things and The Big Things Kitchen, and head over to Shops 204, 205-207, 2/F, The Mills, 45 Pak Tin Par Street, Tsuen Wan or visit online at thbigthings.com, thebigthingskitchen.com
Bento delivery service
Selina attending to her herbs
Why is it important for children to connect with nature? The environment is very important; the more children understand nature, the more it will encourage young generations to respect our planet and its resources. How do your educational services differ from traditional education? Play is essential to a child’s development, so we wanted to create a space where play, discovery and creativity are fostered in a healthy, eco-conscious and enjoyable environment. The Big Things offers different education programmes, such as Kids Science and MasterChef Academy, which reflects the spirit of the famous TV show.
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cover story
10 things to do this summer Victoria Harbour and boasts an open air pool, 24-hour gym, sauna and sun terrace. This summer the residence is offering a ‘Breezy Staycation by the Water’ package, which includes a nights stay, breakfast, Artisan Lounge ARTISANAL Afternoon Tea Set for two, a 60-minute personal training session for two and access to the pool and gym until 6pm on check-out day for $4,200. The package is available from now until August 31. artus.com.hk
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Look for treasure in a pirate cave Located on Cheung Chau Island, the Cheung Po Tsai Cave was thought to be a stash house for pirates in the 18th century. Climb through the winding passage and keep on eye out for gold.
Go glamping Gaze at the stars while relaxing in your very own air-conditioned Geodesic Dome at Sai Yuen Farm. saiyuen.com
Splash around with pink dolphins Hong Kong Dolphinwatch offers ecological boat tours to spot the pink dolphins off Lantau Island. Tours include four to five hours at sea, a presentation, information sheets and light refreshments. hkdolphinwatch.com
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Scout out a deal at the market Head over to Stanley Market for a day of bargain hunting. With everything from souvenirs to gadgets and more, there really is something for everyone.
Enjoy a romantic getaway With travel restrictions in full force, why not indulge in a staycation in the city? Located at Victoria Dockside, K11 ARTUS offers panoramic views of
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Get active at Crossfire The 6,000 square foot venue boasts a range of indoor games and sports including bubble soccer, laser tag, dodgeball and combat archery. crossfire.hk
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summer fun Retrace your roots at the History Museum Witness thousands of years of Hong Kong history from the prehistoric era to the Opium War over eight sprawling galleries featuring a life-sized tram and reconstructed street. hkhistory.museum
Hike the Dragon’s Back Popular with both locals and tourists, beginner or expert, the Dragon’s Back trail boasts beautiful coastal views of Shek O, Tai Long Wan and Tung Lung Island.
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Explore the city on a walking tour Walk Hong Kong offers tours across Hong Kong. From Lantau to Kowloon, you can learn about the city’s unique history and discover some hidden gems. walkhongkong.com
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Relax at the beach No matter where the summer takes you, make sure you save time to relax and enjoy what’s right on our doorstep. From Shek O to Repulse Bay, there’s a beach for every day of the week.
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dining
A view to dine for
Transport yourself to the tropics at these beachside restaurants. By Nicole Slater Cococabana
SHEK
O Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding hills of Shek O while dining on fresh seafood with Mediterranean flavours. Cococabana has received praise worldwide from the Lonely Planet guidebook
to celebrities including Chris Martin and Jeremy Clarkson. Chef-owner Jean-Paul Gauci places an emphasis on sustainability with much of the meat and fish sourced organically and sustainably. toptables.com.hk
Bathers Restaurant and Bar
Sip Song
RE
PUL Set on the sandy shores of Repulse BAY SE Bay, Sip Song serves up southern Thai cuisine in a relaxed, informal space. Located at the far end of The Pulse, the Maximal Concepts-owned restaurant should feel right at home with sister restaurant Limewood just steps away. The no-frills food, which is inspired by Bangkok’s night market scene, delivers bold flavours and is great for sharing. sip-song.com
Cococabana
Treasure Island Restaurant and Bar
SOU LAN TH TAU
Located at one of the hippest beaches in Hong Kong, Treasure Island’s beach restaurant and sun terrace is a popular hangout in South Lantau. The Pui O Beach restaurant offers classic comfort food like steak, sliders and burgers alongside a range of
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beachside dining The Boat House
vegetarian and vegan dishes. It is open every Friday evening, weekends and public holidays. treasureislandhk.com
The Bay
L
AM Tucked away on Mo Tat Wan, enjoy ISLA MA ND delicious Mediterranean cuisine while taking in spectacular views of the crashing waves. The Bay offers a laid back atmosphere with friendly staff, comfortable chairs and reasonable prices. Its menu features a range of seafood, salads, pastas and grill options. thebayhk.com
Amalfitana
RE
PUL Enjoy classic Italian dishes inspired BAY SE by the colourful Amalfi coast while overlooking the sandy Repulse Bay Beach. The restaurant uses long rising dough to make its pizzas lighter and easier to digest. For those who are dining with kids in tow, the Bambino menu features fun fish-shaped pizzas with a number of kid-friendly toppings including pepperoni, cheese and tomato. While you are waiting for the food to arrive, keep your little ones entertained with games and colouring activities offered by the restaurant. amalfitana.hk
Bathers Restaurant and Bar
Located on the edge of Lower Cheung LANTAU Sha Beach, Bathers exudes a relaxing resort vibe while serving up a range of international seafood dishes, fresh salads and classic holiday staples. Only a few steps from the ocean, parents will love having a leisurely lunch while the little ones splash around in the sun. bathers.com.hk
The Boat House
ST
ANE Overlooking Stanley Bay, The Boat LY House has been a popular seafood spot in the community since 2010. The three-storey restaurant reopened earlier this year and boasts a new menu by Executive Chef Sai Hsu. cafedecogroup.com
Zaks
from pastas and Singapore noodles to baby back ribs and salad. casteloconcepts.com
DISCO
VE Be it dining from the upper lounge or BAY RY relaxing on the alfresco deck enjoying vast views of the beachfront, this spacious restaurant is a favourite amongst Discovery Bay residents. With an extensive menu boasting international flavours, guests can enjoy everything
Amalfitana
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nibbles
Dining News Breakfast on the beach Repulse Bay favourite Limewood has introduced a new breakfast menu this summer. The new menu has something for everyone including a range of healthy options for those looking for a light bite as well as heartier numbers like the bacon and egg roti. Available every weekend from 9-11am. The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay. limewood.hk
Summer happy hour Wind down and chill out with Repulse Bay’s happy hour from 6-9pm. Order a glass of house champagne or white wine from the Bamboo Bar and enjoy $10 French oysters.
Oysters are limited to half a dozen per drink. The Repulse Bay, 109 Repulse Bay Road. therepulsebay.com
A taste of summer meadow
Hong Kong’s hottest new food hall is now open
The Ritz-Carlton is ushering in summer with a new afternoon tea set featuring artisanal French cocktails made with St Germain Elderflower Liqueur. Enjoy the summer inspired menu while taking in sweeping views of Victoria Harbour from now until September 13. Guests can also redeem the St Germain Gift Box at a discounted price, so you can shake up your own drinks at home. Starting from $418 for one. 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon. ritzcarlton.com
Taking over the lower ground level of Jardine House where beloved institution Grappa’s Cellar once stood, BaseHall is a new food hall concept bringing together 10 of the city’s top restaurant and bar vendors. You’ll find Roti Tori (Japanese rotisserie by Yardbird), Westside Taqueria (brought to you by the folks at 11 Westside) and our favourite plant-based eatery Treehouse, to name a few. Shop 9A, 9B, 9C, LG/F, Jardine House, 8 Connaught Place, Central. baseball.hk
Enjoy Fortnum & Mason’s signature baked treats from the comfort of your own home or office with its new scone takeaway. Prepared three times a day at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm, the freshly baked scones are available to pick up in signature Eau de Nil green and white takeaway boxes. The delicious baked goods are available in both plain and raisin and are sold in sets of two $76 and four $142. G/F, K11 Atelier Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. fortnumandmason.com
Guilt-free afternoon tea
Peel Street gets new all-day eatery Meraki Hospitality’s Mamma Always Said is Peel Street’s newest neighbourhood hotspot, serving up a selection of lunchtime bites, sharing-style dishes and drinks for five o’clock happiness all day long. With comfort and
Scones on the road
familiarity at the heart of the menu, the casual kitchen and bar takes inspiration from comfort eats around the world while fusing modern flavours and locally-sourced ingredients. 42 Peel Street, Central. mammashk.com
W Hong Kong has launched a new ‘Fuel Up and Detox’ afternoon tea set featuring a range of sweet and savoury delicacies inspired by Eastern wellness traditions. For those looking to detox and stay fit this summer, you’ll be pleased to hear that the afternoon tea is packed full of ingredients that are actually good for you – like Chinese yam, snow fungus, goji berry and butterfly pea flower. Starting from $244 for one. Available until August 31. 1 Austin Road, West Kowloon. marriott.com
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health & beauty
Detox Your Life Nicole Slater rounds up the best to help you relax and unwind this summer
Bliss Spa Step onto the 72nd floor of W Hong Kong this summer and enjoy a 10-step Diamond Cocoon Extreme Repair Experience. The 90-minute facial is the perfect way to remove toxins gathered from prolonged mask wearing, pollution and screen usage. With a 360 rotating pore steep clean system, prebiotic extreme repair formula from Natura BissĂŠ and a repairing balm mask, the facial cleanses and clears each layer of skin. This is the perfect treatment for those looking to repair and strengthen the skin from the inside out. W Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road West. marriott.com
Sense of Touch Multi-award winning day spa operator Sense of Touch’s 90-minute Detox Massage includes Lymphatic drainage which helps to release toxic build-up, reduce water-retention and improve energy levels. The massage is also fused with aromatherapy and detoxifying oils to help boost the immune system. With every booking of the Detox Massage, Cellu M6 Lipomassage or VelaSmooth Body Shaping, guests can receive a complimentary Sculpting Cocoon. 1/F, The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road. senseoftouch.com.hk
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summer detox
Float On
Plateau Spa
Want to get away from it all for an hour or two? Lay in 10 inches of water, sprinkled with 500kg of Epsom Salts and float away your problems in Float On’s tranquil pods. By floating, your body can reset, rejuvenate and heal while your mind can enjoy a peaceful environment to detach from everyday stress. 89 Caine Road, Central. floatonhk.com
Offering a private and secluded sanctuary above the hustle and bustle of the city, Plateau Spa at the Grand Hyatt is the perfect escape. The spa’s new Hungarian Mud Wrap cleanses the body and relieves muscular tension with a purifying buffing balm, magnesium carbonate moor mud mask finished off with a scalp and body massage. 11th Floor, Grand Hyatt, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. hyatt.com
Life Hub LifeHub is offering three heavy metal toxicity detoxification programmes to help clear up the backlog of toxins from the body. Each programme can be incorporated into your lifestyle and helps to clear skin, improve gut health and even health with weight loss. Choose from three hour, 10-day or 21-day detox programmes and feel refreshed and rejuvenated all summer long. 1/F, The Loop, 33 Wellington Street, Central. thelifehub.com
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unsets
big day out
Hong Kong from another perspective Rory Mackay discovers sprawling views of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island up Tate’s Cairn
F
or those who think The Peak is the most dramatic summit overlooking Victoria Harbour, think again. There are incredible vistas north of Kowloon. It may not be as well known, but Tate’s Cairn and the adjacent Kowloon Peak is right up there in terms of grandeur. Conquer this rugged ridge and you will be rewarded with some of Hong Kong’s finest views. Feel the intense sprawl of Kowloon and enjoy the iconic backdrop of Hong Kong Island behind. Meanwhile, a gaze around the other side reveals Sai Kung Country Park, Sha Tin Valley and the expansive hills of the New Territories. Not only is being at the top incredible, but the journey to get there is really enjoyable. Mid-afternoon is an ideal time to set off, ensuring cooler temperatures and sunset vistas from the summit ridge. The route up is easily accessed from Wong Tai Sin MTR Station. Find exit E and begin climbing up Sha Tin Pass Road. Stay on this road, which gradually rises above the tower blocks of Kowloon. After about 45 minutes of walking, you’ll intercept the Wilson Trail (Stage 4). Turn right and follow the road up towards
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the ridgeline. Walk through the lush forests of Lion Rock Country Park before emerging upon more grassy terrain. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, in particular monkeys. If
you want a much shorter stroll, upon reaching the junction between Fei Ngo Shan Road and Jat’s Incline, simply walk back down into Choi Hung via Jat’s Incline. Otherwise,
Photo credit: via Wiki Commons
tate’s cairn
I recommend following Fei Ngo Shan Road to the mountain ridge where the Tate’s Cairn Weather Observatory is located. Upon reaching the summit at 583 meters above sea level, the route emerges from undergrowth to reveal unrivaled panoramas of Kowloon and its surrounds. Pose for dramatic photos above large granite outcrops dating back to the Jurassic Period. Or take a perch, soaking up the relaxing vibes as the skies darken and the vibrant lights from the city below come to life. A quick dash up one of many small tracks running above the road reveals stunning natural vistas over Ma On Shan and the Sai Kung Country Parks—the contrast to Kowloon couldn’t be starker. The return route down is fairly simple—if you want it to be.
Keep walking down Fei Ngo Shan Road to Choi Hung if you want to play it safe. Otherwise, there are a few awesome alternatives for onwards adventures which ultimately descend back to town. For longer walks, remain with the MacLehose or Wilson Trails as long as you wish. However my pick for the super intrepid is the ridge walk over Kowloon Peak, past “Suicide Cliff” and down the East Face to Clearwater Bay. Be forewarned that this is a very technical and dangerous option, only to be attempted by the most experienced of hikers. If in any doubt whatsoever then take a guide with you or—at the very least—do the route in reverse so you’re climbing the trickier parts. The whole walk should take the best part of three to four hours. Be sure to bring a few
snacks and plenty of fluids for consumption along the way as there are no facilities up there. If you are feeling lazy or want to shorten the duration, it is possible to cycle, drive or take a taxi up Fei Ngo Shan Road instead. Tate’s Cairn is a classic year-round spot that anyone can have a crack at, yet it has detours that will keep even the most seasoned of hikers more than honest. Its enchanted forests below and spectacular vistas above will leave you wanting to revisit. Rory Mackay runs adventure company Wild Hong Kong. For more details, visit wildhongkong.com
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southside secrets
Prison Break T
Revist the grisly history of Stanley Prison. By Nicole Slater riad members, white-collar fraudsters and top-level politicians have all done time in Stanley Prison which is still a functioning goal with more than 1,000 inmates. Established in 1937, the prison has an intriguing and somewhat gruesome history. During the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong, the prison and St Stephen’s College were used as a prisoner-of-war camp (19421945), housing 2,800 mostly British men, women and children appalling conditions. Food was scarce and there were few medical facilities, although there were many doctors and nurses among the internees, which
probably prevented any epidemics. “The prison grounds, the cemetery and St Stephen’s College were the site of the civilian internment camps, whereas the prison itself was used by the Japanese to intern those they wanted to interrogate,” says historian Tony Banham, who has written several books about wartime Hong Kong. While it’s not possible to visit the prison itself - guards at the gate turn away curious tourists - the Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum located next door offers a fascinating insight into its history. There are displays that demonstrate the conditions experienced by former inmates
and plenty of grisly details about Hong Kong’s pineal system. The musemen has 10 galleries displaying about 600 artefacts on two floors, including rudimentary weapons made by inmates and smuggled contraband. There are replicas of gallows and two cells from colonial-era Hong Kong. Instruments used for flogging and other forms of corporal punishment send shivers down the spine. Gallery Six is particularly interesting. It details the plight of the Vietnamese boat people in Hong Kong. Through photographs, video and witness testaments, it traces the history of the refugee crisis, the internment camps, riots and forced repatriations. Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum, 45 Tung Tau Wan Road, Stanley
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pets
Ask a vet...
Dr Pauline Taylor on how to be a responsible dog owner Dr. Pauline Pets Central veterinarian Our pet dogs are usually warm loving creatures who are always ready to welcome us home. They don’t hold grudges if treated respectfully and are well fed, watered and are allowed to exercise and socially interact with other dogs. I love my own dogs immensely but I never forget their natural instincts and understand my responsibility as a pet parent is to be aware of their predator instincts at all times. A few weeks ago my beautiful hand reared domestic cat Georgie was sleeping happily in the sunshine under a kayak, when he was attacked by two large off leash adult mongrels, each weighing between 2832kg. I was startled by the shouts of “Dog come!” “Dog come!” by the person allegedly in charge of these two dogs. The control she had over them in this situation was absolutely nil. They had either no ears and were deaf, or ears trained not to listen to hysterical cries to “come” when they were excitedly barking, trying to tear apart my pet cat. Even when they eventually did come out from under the kayak, the ill-fitting neck collar on one dog meant it slipped over the head when the alleged controller tried to leash it up. So in other words two approximately 30kg killers, registered with the government (I have to assume), were on the loose in a small New Territories village having fun tearing apart my cat. While I accept it’s fairly natural for dogs to try and chase cats and other moving objects considered prey, it is not acceptable to keep dogs that you cannot control in society. We have a social responsibility to each other to maintain harmony and good relations with neighbours, even though we may dislike them and as dog owners, we are by law supposed to control them at all times. In Hong Kong, we have a Dogs and Cats Ordinance (Cap.167) and Dangerous Dogs Ordinance (Cap.134) that sets rules on how we should behave being keepers of canines. By law under the Rabies Ordinance (Cap.421), we are required to register our dogs vaccinated against Rabies with the Government and we must abide by the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap 169). In other countries, the above dogs wouldn’t be so lucky and walk away from their socially unacceptable crime. They would, for attacking another living creature, be immediately put on “death row” by government officials and their keepers summoned to court. So please, if you want the “kudos” of owning a dog, learn your responsibility and be responsible for every person you allow to take your dogs out of your property. There is no substitute for good behavior and training. This time it was my cat. Next time it could be a child.
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woof
Walkies Explore the wonderful Victoria Peak Gardens with Rex the dog Want to take a break from your stress at work and spend some valuable time with your lovely pooch? Victoria Peak Gardens is famous for being the former Mountain Lodge site, a residence for the Governor of Hong
Kong. In 2010 the residence was renovated into a gorgeous Victorian-style public park. Take a slow walk on the paved pathways, bathe under the sunlight and enjoy your time relaxing on the open green lawn. Make sure
you bring plenty of water and snacks for you and your pooch, perhaps you can have a small picnic under the tree. Don’t forget your camera and capture the spectacular views of Hong Kong Island from multiple angles. After the small journey around the gardens, why not stay and enjoy a nice meal at The peak? It surely is the best way to end this amazing day. How to get there: Dogs are not allowed on both public buses and the Peak Tram, so drive or take a taxi to The Peak. You can also get to Victoria Peak Gardens by hiking up Mount Austin Road. The gardens are located just 10 minutes away from the peak.
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marketplace
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marketplace
marketplace
To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772.
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Copyright: West Kowloon Cultural District Authority
zim city
Great waterfronts bend the rules Paul Zimmerman on making use of the opportunities Hong Kong’s waterfront settings provide
T
he experience of the Sai Kung waterfront is greatly enhanced by the unauthorised floating market and the restaurant seating extending onto public space. The appreciation by visitors of the restaurants and market shops in Stanley has resulted in the government regularising their unauthorises encroachment of public space. Dogs and scooters breach the rules of the waterfront park at Cyberport to the delight of thousands who descend on the park every holiday. The popularity of sunset at the western cargo working area can be gleaned from its nickname “Instagram Pier’’ despite the large signs warning of jail time for visitors. Besides informal community pressure and free market enterprise, there are institutional setups which allow better for bending the rules of the myriad of government departments to create enjoyable experiences. The waterfront and adjacent piazza at the pier in Discovery Bay is an example of vibrancy as a result of having a single owner determined to make it happen. The same can now be seen at the Art
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Park where the management team of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority has worked hard to bend the rules to create a magnificent waterfront with long benches, no vehicles, no railings and restaurants with ample outdoor seating. For the same reason – the ability to bend rules - we called in 2004 for the setting up of a Harbour Authority to look after the waterfronts of Victoria Harbour. That never happened and we are trying to make due in the fight for better spaces with a committee advising a Harbour Office under the Development Bureau. The outcomes are mixed. The space under the Kwun Tong bypass is generally seen as a success. The new waterfronts at the North Point Ferry Piers, the Hung Hom ferry piers and Tsuen Wan West Rail station are abysmal failures. Planter boxes to meet greening ratios, emergency vehicle access devoid of amenities, adjacent building fronts which fail to animate the public space, hard division between public and private, long lists of activities which are disallowed, and so forth, are testament to the failure to bend the rules of the many
departments involved. The drawings we were presented looked nice but the outcomes are dismal in making use of the opportunities these waterfront settings provide. It is upon the Development Bureau to figure out soon how to avoid the same at waterfronts which are in progress in Yau Ma Tei, Kai Tak, Yau Tong and elsewhere. It is upon us all to push for retrofits of waterfronts which have been completed.
Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, a Southern District Councillor and the co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks alliance.
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