Southside Magazine April 2015

FAMILY | FOOD | HOME | SPORT | LIVING

April 2015 Free parking at The Pulse

Win a sandcastle competition in Shek O

South Island line arrives early

Bliss out at Sense of Touch

Get jazzed on Java at Cuppers coffee

Move ahead three spaces

Go home

Rise three spaces

Speed ahead two spaces

Score a table in Limewood

Go to Butchers Club’s

Your social status rises three spaces

Roll home

Your Pure South #healfie goes viral

Lose track of time in Stanley Market

Take an extra turn

Miss a turn

Typhoon damage

Home

Miss a turn

Stanley Prison

Traffic jam at Tai Tam dam

Score a try at the Beach 5s

Miss a turn

Go back one space

Move forward two spaces

Asphyxiated by tourist busses on Beach Road

Miss a turn while you recover

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The really useful magazine APRIL 2015

PEOPLE 2 Snapped!

Southside’s social life.

THE PLANNER 6 Happening in April What’s on in your neighborhood.

NEWS 10 What’s going on?

In your backyard.

LETTERS 14 Have your say From our readers.

LOCAL 16 Less Splash ’n’ Dash New beach rules upset Repulse Bay beach event.

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

18 Shutter bug HK Walls’ co-founder Stan Wu on Stanley’s new art scene.

NEWS FROM THE GREENS 20 Seating plan Why we need more minibus seats.

FEATURE 22 Readers’ Choice Awards And the winners are...

EATING 40 Nibbles News and happenings.

RECIPE

BIG DAY OUT 44 Jump off a cliff Abseiling and zip-lining on Tung Lung Chau.

TRAVEL 52 Atoll relief A family paradise in the Maldives.

PETS

MARKETPLACE 58 Your guide to shops and services Cool stuff to buy and do.

SOUTHSIDE SECRETS 64 Eight Houses Stanley’s 1930s hidden beachside neighbourhood.

56 The long goodbye Sally Andersen calls time on a fourlegged friend.

CREATURE FEATURE 57 Greater bandicoot rat The biggest and rarest rodent in town.

42 Easter chocolate cake Chef Lucy Humbert shares her seasonal favourite.

f

Find us on Facebook Southside Magazine

“BE YOURSELF; EVERYONE ELSE IS ALREADY TAKEN.” – OSCAR WILDE

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people Snaps from Southside

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say cheese Southside Market Long Lunch

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people

Photo credits: Prudential Beach 5s

Prudential Beach 5s

Share your event photos with us at photo@fastmedia.com.hk. Get snapping!

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planner

UNTIL APR 19 Ocean Art Walk Weekend art exhibition in support of the world’s oceans by the Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation, www.hkyaf.com. Free. Stanley Plaza, Stanley, 2214 0177.

UNTIL APR 5 Jump Cut Independent Film Festival Local and international independent films chosen by teenagers for the only youth-curated festival in Hong Kong. Various unconventional locations.

Free, www.hkyaf.com/jumpcut.

UNTIL APR 26 Cavalia

APR 2-5 Smurfs Save Spring

A modern circus on horseback from the people behind Cirque de Soleil, now with extra shows by demand. Big Top, Central Harbourfront.

Tickets $245-$1,195 3128 8288, www.hkticketing.com

The Smurfs on stage. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Smurfy seats $688 (including gifts), other seats $250-$588 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

APR 1 April Fool’s Day Don’t fall for it.

APR 1 Public pools open Yay! Dive in.

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happening in april APR 4 Hong Kong Pillow Fight Day

APR 5-6 Easter Carnival

APR 12 Bonaqua Action Sprint

Let the feathers fly. Bring a pillow, wear pjs. 4pm.

Chater Garden, Central, www.hongwrong.com.

The Easter Bunny, clowns and egg painting.

Ocean View Court, The Arcade, Cyberport, 100 Cyberport Road, Pok Fu Lam, 3166 3111, www.cyberport.hk.

A 12km adventure race starting 9am, Repulse Bay Beach. For details and registration, visit www.actionasiaevents.com.

APR 10-12 Grug

Look, no moon. 6pm.

Puppet show based on the Aussie children’s book.

For children aged one to six. Sha Tin Concert Hall.

Tickets $200 from 2111 5999, ticket.urbtix.hk.

APR 4 Easter at The Pulse

APR 10-12 Secrets of the Lost Circus

Make your own bunny ears. Free workshops with any purchase. Peek-a-Boo, L2, The Pulse 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2815 8888, www.thepulse.com.hk.

Post-apocalyptic aerialists, acrobats, ballerinas and jugglers. Drama Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wan Chai, 2375 8088. Tickets $180 from www.aerialartsacademy.com.

APR 4 Total lunar eclipse

APR 4-5 Le Meridien Easter egg hunt

APR 15-19 Ocean in Motion Film Festival Short fishy films at The Vine in Wan Chai, Shek O Back Beach and the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club. Tickets from $75 from Ocean Recovery Alliance, www.oceanrecov.org.

Find an egg, win a gift. $50, or free for children staying or eating at Le Méridien Cyberport. 100 Cyberport Road, Pok Fu Lam, www.cyberport.hk.

APR 16-MAY 6 Shakespeare in the Port Local theatre group presents outdoor performances of The Tempest, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and King Lear. 3pm, 7pm. Tickets $150-$300 from www.ticketflap.com, free for children. Cyberport Podium, Pok Fu Lam.

APR 3-4, 6-7 Public holidays Good Friday, Ching Ming Festival and Easter Monday (which is being celebrated on Tuesday).

APR 5 Easter Sunday Give thanks, eat chocolate.

APR 12 Southside Market Long Lunch Unlimited food, drink, music and entertainment from noon to 5pm. The Butchers Club Deli Rooftop, 16/F, 18 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, 2884 0768. Tickets $550 from www.ticketflap.com, free for children under eight.

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planner APR 16-19 Concert in the Dark

APR 22 Summer and Spring Bazaar

APR 23 Kids Ocean Day

Music and a singing contest without lights in aid of Dialogue in the Dark. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $480-$1,500 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Annual Shopping Hongkong fair with local and international stalls selling jewellery, accessories, clothing, wine, cupcakes and more. Noon-8pm.

The Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Road, Central, www.shoppinghongkong.net.

Thousands of children gather on Repulse Bay beach to form a picture and try to save the seas.

9am-1pm, www.facebook. com/KidsOceanWeek.

APR 20 Charli XCX Boom clap! Music Zone, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $490 from www.ticketflap.com.

APR 25 King’s Day Boatzilla

APR 20 Beauty Nest Party

Three junks, 150 people, one big party.

Boats depart Central Pier 9, 11am-6pm.

Tickets $450 from Gweilo Concepts, info@gweiloconcepts.com.

Sense of Touch’s new salon, Beauty Nest, launches with free hairstyling, makeup and express manicures, plus champagne and canapes. Book now. 6pm-8pm, G115-G116, The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2592 9559, www.beautynest.com.hk.

APR 22-23 Backstreet Boys – In a World Like This Tour

APR 27-MAY 9 Mega Ice Hockey 5’s Youth and adult icehockey tournament.

L10, Ice Rink, Mega Box, Kowloon Bay, www.megaice.com.hk

Backstreet’s back, alright.

KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $888-$988 at www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

BOOK NOW MAY 1-2 Katy Perry Prismatic World Tour

MAY 6-10 Showstopper!

The Improvised Musical

Hear her roar. Cotai Arena, The Venetian Macao. Tickets $380-$1,680 from www.cotaiticketing.com.

Top-class musical comedy that changes every night. Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai.

Tickets $295-$595 at www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

MAY 10, 31 Splash ’n’ Dash Aquathons Swimming and road races for kids and adults.

Repulse Bay (May 10) and South Bay (May 31). $200-$500 at www.revolution-asia.com.

MAY 15-JUN 7 The Sound of Music A few of your favourite things, direct from the West End. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai.

Tickets $395-$995 at www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

MAY 30, JUN 6 Summer Garage Sale Registration for tables opens at 8am on April 18. Get in quick to bag a spot at this popular twice-yearly secondhand sale. LG3 Car Park, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clearwater Bay, 9045 5942, gujean@ust.hk.

JUN 5-7 The Wind in the Willows Mole, Badger and Mr Toad come to life in a new production by Britain’s Talking Scarlet.

Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $195-$435 at www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editor@southside.hk.

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planner

news

in your backyard

What’s happening with The Boathouse? Benefit opens Stanley branch Permission has been granted for the demolition of The Boathouse, the longestablished restaurant on Stanley waterfront.

The Miramar Group sought permission from the Town Planning Board to demolish the local landmark. In 2010, the group was granted planning permission for a 10-storey hotel on the site in Stanley Main Street, although those plans were recently revised and scaled down from 28 rooms to 13.

A grade III historic building, the site currently operates as a restaurant under the Cafe Deco Group. When contacted the group maintained nothing would be changing for the moment.

A spokesman told Southside Magazine, “The lease was renewed recently and we will continue to operate The Boathouse as normal for now as we have had no word from the Miramar group to say otherwise.”

The Miramar group declined to comment.

Gong baths and other treatments

Half-price maternity wear

New Wong Chuk Hang yoga studio and meditation centre Red Doors Studios offers a whole new way to relax and unwind the body and soul. Sound healing uses special meditation gongs forged in Germany to perform “gong baths”. A therapist sounds the specially tuned gongs, letting them resonate and vibrate through the bodies of participants, helping them reach a state of spontaneous meditation.

“At the end of the yoga class is sivasana where you lie down for deep relaxation,” says studio founder Martha Collard, who has a wealth of experience providing wellness programmes for organisations such as Lane Crawford. “The gongs induce that state almost immediately and aside from clearing the clutter in your brain, it totally relaxes your body so that it may heal. I had a kidney stone dissolve during a gong bath so I am a convert.”

The studio will offer a range of classes including Kundalini yoga and aromatherapy in private and group sessions.

Red Doors Studio, Flat A, 21/F, Lee Fund Centre, 31 Wong Chuk Hang, 9673 8075, www.red-doors.com.

To celebrate the launch of its online store, Linea Negra Maternity is offering discounts of up to 50 percent on its stylish maternity wear and skincare. Launched in 2003, the brand offers stylish maternity wear by some of the world’s leading brands, as well as nursing bras, post-partum support and skincare.

Deliveries for online orders are $60 or free with purchases of more than $2,000. Unit 501, Pacific House, 20 Queen’s Road Central, 2522 7966, www.lineanegra.com.hk.

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Popular international beauty brand Benefit Cosmetics is opening a branch in Stanley Plaza on April 16. As well as makeup and skincare products, it will offer beauty services such as brow waxing, tinting, spray tans and body waxing. Looking good, Southsiders.

Shop 201, 2/F Stanley Plaza, Carmel Road, Stanley, www.benefitcosmetics.com.

Love the sea in April Celebrate all things briny for Ocean Appreciation Month. Organised by local charity Ocean Recovery Alliance, April brings a series of fun and interactive community events to raise money for ocean conservation and awareness projects.

First up is Ocean Art Walk. Running until April 19 at Stanley Plaza, it includes large visual-art installations, dance performances and workshops.

The Ocean in Motion Film Festival (April 15-19) will screen 35 short films by local and international filmmakers at various venues, including the Hong Kong Maritime Museum, Shek O Back Beach and The Vine in Wan Chai.

The films, which are all five to nine minutes long, include Arctic Swell by SmugMug. Tickets from bit.ly/HKOceanInMotion2015.

And on April 23, the Kids Ocean Day brings together 1,000 schoolchildren to form a human picture on Repulse Bay Beach. For details, visit www.oceanrecov.org.

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free stuff

win at www.southside.hk

Sooq Gift Set

BloomMe vouchers

Cavalia tickets

Pamper yourself with a Native Essentials gift set from online store Sooq (www.sooqcentral.com), which specialises in unusual and handmade products from premium brands. We are giving away a shampoo and conditioner set worth more than $500.

Native Essential products are 100 per cent natural and chemical free.

Deadline: April 12.

We are giving away three $1,500 and 20 $150 cash vouchers for beauty treatments booked through new mobile beauty booking app, BloomMe. Available at the Apple and Android app stores, the app can be used to book appointments at spas and salons across Hong Kong. Select a treatment, a spa or salon, confirm your booking and enjoy. The cash voucher balance will be added to our lucky winners’ BloomMe accounts. To qualify, please use coupon code “Southside” when registering. Deadline: April 30.

Roll up, roll up! Win tickets to Cavalia, the modern circus on horseback created by Normand Latourelle. Featuring spectacular flying acrobats, musicians and 50 galloping horses, the circus will be in town until April 26 in a big top on the Central Harbourfront (www.cavalia.hk). We are giving away a pair of tickets to the 8pm performance on April 14.

Deadline: April 7.

Two nights at Angsana Lang Co, Vietnam We are giving away two nights’ accommodation worth $3,230 for two people in a Deluxe Room at the luxury resort Angsana Lang Co in Central Vietnam. This modern, family-friendly hotel sits on a beautiful beach next to an 18-hole golf course and within easy reach of Unesco World Heritage sites in Hoi An, Hue and My Son. Deadline: April 26.

To enter, click the Giveaways tab on our website, www.southside.hk. Deadlines vary.

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Headline letters the rents are much cheaper and there are huge unserviced populations with very high demographics. Many companies reject Cyberport because of foot numbers, but build it and they will come. The pent-up demand on Southside for decent goods and services is HUGE! But, please, no more furniture.”

– Dannielle Harnett “Ban idling buses from Repulse Bay’s Beach Road and Stanley Market. Extend car-parking facilities at Shek O and Big Wave Bay beaches.” – Rachel Lawrence

On your mind In this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards, we asked how Southside could be improved.

More than 800 people responded, here’s what some of you had to say. “[There should be more] festivals on the beach or live music every weekend or kids entertainment on a Saturday – Universal Studios-style.” – Kate Campbell

“More outdoor playgrounds for children with swing sets and sand pits.” – Bonnie Chow, Bel-Air “More venues and practical shops. With the rents skyrocketing in Central and companies like H&M pulling out of Hong Kong because of costs, it’s crazy that big international brands don’t come out to Cyberport where

“Public transit that goes all the way from Aberdeen to Chai Wan.” – Joe Winston “Better traffic control, especially of tour buses on Beach Road in Repulse Bay who keep their engines running and pumping noxious fumes.

Better crowd/traffic control for the dragon-boat festival around Stanley Plaza. More communitybased events.” – Rachel Bourke

Email your photos or letters to editorial@fastmedia.com.hk. We may edit for length. Or tag us, #southsidemag on social media!

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have your say Last Night on Stanley Pier Last night I stood on Stanley pier, alone cold sea breezes on my cheek no stars in the sky grey mists hanging low the soft rhythm of waves on rocks and I recalled a tranquil moment shared in another time, another place.

A poem by Marianne Yeo

“The Irish turn out for Hong Kong’s first St Patrick’s Day parade.”

– Dylan Murphy

“A rainbow rarity in the city.”– Ashlee Schroth Email your photos or letters to editorial@fastmedia.com.hk. We may edit for length. Or tag us, #southsidemag on social media!

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local

not in the swim

Editorial

Promenade to Deepwater Bay and back, while the South Bay event includes a race along South Bay Road to Ruby Court. South Bay Road is cordoned off from 8am.

The LCSD says it needs to strike a balance between the needs of different stakeholders on Southside’s beaches.

“Due consideration must be given to a number of factors, including beach patronage, disturbance to other swimmers and beachgoers, public safety and impact on life saving operations,” it said in a statement.

Senior Consultant Editor Jane Steer jane@fastmedia.com.hk Managing Editor Hannah Grogan hannah@fastmedia.com.hk Editorial Assistant Cherrie Yu cherrie@fastmedia.com.hk Staff Writer Callum Wiggins callum@fastmedia.com.hk Acting Digital Editor Annie Wong annie@fastmedia.com.hk

Design

Art Director Kelvin Lau kelvin@fastmedia.com.hk

We don’t interrupt public swimmers during the race

Graphic Design Setareh Parvin setareh@fastmedia.com.hk Evy Cheung evy@fastmedia.com.hk

Thanks to Adele Brunner Carolynne Dear Sally Andersen Paul Zimmerman Lucy Humbert Steffi Yuen Alastair Grigg

Publisher

Popular aquathon events are under threat.

Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk

Less Splash ’n’ Dash

Published by

New beach rules have led to the cancellation of a family sports event, writes Carolynne Dear.

Fast Media Floor LG1, 222 Queens Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

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Southside’s popular Splash ’n’ Dash race series is under threat following a government squeeze on permits issued for sporting events on Hong Kong Island’s southern beaches.

Revolution Asia, which organises the popular aquathon races for adults and children, has had to cut its three-race series down to two this year following a ruling by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD).

Both races take place next month (May 10 at Repulse Bay Beach and May 31 at South Bay Beach) instead of being spread across May and June.

“The LCSD claims (the tightening up) is due to a complaint,” says Revolution Asia’s race director Jun Sat. “We have no idea where the complaint came from. We use only the western side of Repulse Bay Beach near the pier and, for the swimming section, our race takes place within the shark net but never the area within the orange buoys where the floating platforms are located, so we are confident we don’t interrupt public swimmers during the race. And we are all packed up by 11am.”

As well as the swimming section, during the Repulse Bay event racers run along the Seaview

The ruling effectively means no more than one organisation can apply for a permit on the same day.

“If an official volleyball match is granted permission to take place in one small section of the beach in the afternoon, for example, no other activity can apply for a permit that day,” Sat says.

However, Sat said the department was prepared to consider applications made for later in the summer by Splash ’n’ Dash if participants could leave the sand by 9am.

“The problem is this means participants will need to start the race by 7am or earlier, and set-up would have to start a couple of hours earlier than that. We feel this condition is impossible to fulfill.”

A spokesperson for Nippers Hong Kong children’s beach life-saving club said its summer programme at Deepwater Bay Beach would not be affected by the ruling as it takes place on private land owned by the Victoria Recreation Club.

For more information about Revolution Asia events, see www.revolution-asia.com.

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five minutes with...

Sales & Marketing Head of Sales & Marketing Karman So karman@fastmedia.com.hk

Business Development Manager Tristan Watkins tristan@fastmedia.com.hk Marketing & Comm. Manager Sharon Wong sharon@fastmedia.com.hk Sales Manager Oliver Simons oliver@fastmedia.com.hk Sales & Marketing Executive John Lee john@fastmedia.com.hk Sara Tomovic sara@fastmedia.com.hk

Accounts Manager Connie Lam connie@fastmedia.com.hk

Printer

Apex Print 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong

www.southside.hk ads@fastmedia.com.hk @southsidemag facebook.com/SouthsideMagazineHK

GIVE US A CALL! Admin: 3568 3722 Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772, 3563 9755 Southside Magazine 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. 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 pubishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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off the wall

Shutter bug Cherrie Yu meets the artist painting Stanley’s shutters, HK Walls director, Stan Wu.

HK Walls is in its second year.

It is a fairly simple concept: we get the owner of a shop wall or shutters to agree to let us paint, then we paint the shutters ourselves or a guest artist owns the project. Artists can paint whatever they want as long as it doesn’t cross the line.

Artist Jason Dembski and I started HK Walls last year before Art Basel Hong Kong. It was inspired by a similar concept at Art Basel Miami and we wanted to replicate it here. I began painting in 2001 and we have a team of about five volunteers who share a passion for art.

C

M

Y

So far, 28 walls in Sheung Wan have been donated and about 40 shutters in Stanley

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Last year, we painted only in Sheung Wan. We went around the neighbourhood asking shopowners to donate walls and the overall response was quite positive. Most of the art is around Po Hing Fong.

Some artists were in Hong Kong for Art Basel last year, which made it easy for us to invite them as guests without needing to pay for their flights. This year, Agnes b reached out to sponsor us so now we can fly artists to Hong Kong.

So far, 28 walls in Sheung Wan have been donated and about 40 shutters in Stanley. The feedback has been very positive. After the first few, the finished art attracted other shop-owners to want us to paint their shutters, or the owners

Painting the town red. And blue. And pink...

recommended us. Hughie from Print House helped us quite a lot.

a close community, giving rise to indie groups.

The art scene is Stanley has always been impressive. Though tourism is big, the indie scene is quite evident. There’s a lot of local culture and local brands in Stanley doing their thing, indie groups such as the wakeboarders’ community and another group that does hip hop. It’s a small area that connects people. They become

We welcome anyone to donate their walls. During Art Basel we concentrated on certain areas [with a big artistic community] such as Sha Tin, Sheung Shui and Sheung Wan, but we are hoping to paint in other districts.

For details or to donate walls, visit www.hkwalls.org.

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Headline news from

the greens

seating plan

More seats on minibus Paul Zimmerman campaigns for extra capacity on a vital mode of transport.

A common complaint I receive as a District Councillor concerns the waiting time for a seat on minibuses. Residents can spend more time waiting for the minibus than for the journey itself. Trying to hail a minibus en-route can be disappointing as there is no guarantee of empty seats on the next or subsequent minibuses during rush hours.

The minibus service began in the 1970s,

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initially with a maximum capacity of 14 seats on each vehicle. In 1988, the government amended regulations to increase the number of seats from 14 to 16. Over the past 26 years, our population has grown by 1.6 million, or 28.5 per cent. Yet the government, under pressure from bus companies and taxi drivers, continues to hold the view that minibuses are an auxiliary transport mode and any increase in seats could have a negative impact on other transport operators.

It’s time to change this. Minibuses are often the only mode of transport for residents in suburban areas across the territory. And with fares slow to increase, drivers’ salaries have not kept up with the economy resulting in a shortage of drivers.

Increasing the number of seats is the most efficient, economic, environmentally friendly way to reduce waiting time for buses, improve driver salaries and profitability for operators.

Newer vehicles in the existing fleet can be

retro-fitted with four extra seats by removing luggage racks. Older vehicles, however, cannot be retrofitted and will need to be replaced.

This will result in newer, cleaner buses benefiting the passengers with greater comfort and the public with a reduction in roadside air pollution. Moreover, with our narrow roads and short laybys, minibuses have less impact on traffic than big buses, which often block traffic lanes with their “dragon tail sticking out”.

The government is conducting a public transport strategy study and is inviting the public to submit views on this and other related issues. Join our campaign, “More seats on the minibus!”, by signing our online petition today at www.designinghongkong.com.

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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readers’ choice awards

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and the winner is‌

Readers’ Choice Awards The results are in! Based on votes from more than 800 readers, we reveal the winners of the third annual Southside Magazine awards.

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readers’ choice awards Best Restaurant & Best New Restaurant Limewood Scoring a big double with wins in two categories, congratulations to new Repulse Bay restaurant, Limewood.

Getting your vote for Best Restaurant and Best New Restaurant, Limewood specialises in barbecue, seafood and margaritas in a colourful double-sized space on the ground floor of The Pulse. It is part of the Maximal Concepts restaurant group, which also runs Fish and Meat, Blue Butcher and Stockton and will open its first overseas restaurant, Mott 32, in Vancouver this year. The menu was devised by the group’s culinary director Malcolm Wood and executive chef Russell Doctrove. They must have got it spot on, with an overwhelming percentage of voters naming Limewood number one. Since opening in November, it has proven so popular that advance booking of up to three weeks is recommended at weekends.

Limewood’s most popular dish is the 24-hour slow-cooked Wagyu beef ribs with mango-infused barbecue sauce, which are so meltingly tender the meat practically falls off the bone. Other dishes include jerked coconut corn with sriracha mayo and toasted coconut, and roasted sea bass with charred limes. Children don’t miss out either with a special kids’ menu featuring charred corn fritters, fish tacos and tasty chicken wings. And the under-age will love the frozen mockeritas as much as their parents enjoy the frozen margaritas.

Shop 103 & 104, G/F The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2866 8668. www.limewood.hk.

Best Cup of Coffee Cuppers, Stanley “We are very happy and surprised to get the award,” says Cuppers’ owner Cherry Chan.

“We took over The Cupping Room a year and a half ago, and changed the name to Cuppers.

Our speciality is single-origin coffee beans from Germany.”

It’s clearly a tasty brew, winning the thumbs up from Southside readers. But Chan is not resting on her grounds, with a new menu and fresh coffee taste sensations.

“We just got a new grinder and have a new selection of imported smoothies and Greek yogurt. Our coffee menu changes seasonally.

Currently, we recommend the hand-dripped coffee like the Farmami Costa which is $68 for a pot. Another of our signatures is the Finca Tamana Colombia which is an apple flavour.”

Shop 207, 2/F Stanley Plaza, Stanley, 9056 8698.

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readers’ choice awards Best Online Food/Beverage Delivery Service

Farmer’s Kitchen Since its launch in 2014, Farmer’s Kitchen has been winning hearts – and votes – across Southside for its deliveries of top-quality Australian meat. Directors Emma Pike and Katie Campbell believe that identifying what consumers prefer right from the outset has been a big factor in their success.

“Our products are all 100 per cent grassfed and flown in chilled rather than previously frozen, which has become a preference of consumers in Hong Kong. We truly believe in the product and promise to deliver the same top quality each time. Our plan in 2015 is to expand our product range to fulfill everyone's needs so we can satisfy the taste buds of all the food lovers of Hong Kong.”

Details at www.farmerskitchen.com.hk.

Best Private Dining The Butchers Club Deli at Ed1tus It’s been quite a year for The Butchers Club.

Since launching in 2013, it has grown from one restaurant to five, opened a retail shop, a food truck, a restaurant in Bali and started monthly Long Lunch events. It’s an impressive empire built on a top-quality product: dry-aged beef.

From the start, its private kitchen found a place in Southsiders’ meat-lovin’ hearts, and has now expanded from one table in the original deli to a huge space in Ed1tus, able to host dinner parties for 14 to 120 people, and cocktail parties for up to 800 in its rooftop event space.

“We are so happy to win. It feels like all our birthdays have come at once,” says founder Johnny Glover. “We have plans to open three more restaurants in Hong Kong in the next six to 12 months, and are in discussions with

Best Place to Grab a Drink

We

Repulse Bay

The big winner this year in our Readers’ Choice Awards was Repulse Bay, which took home awards for Best Neighbourhood and Best Beach, while The Repulse Bay took home the award for Best Residential Complex. The area has been revitalised with the opening of The Pulse – Best One-Stop Shopping Destination – after years of delay and it’s obvious that you are loving the area’s lively vibe and beautiful beach.

“The new mall with all the restaurants is perfect for the kids.”

– Nina Nilsson “I lived there for five years and loved the access to the shops, beach and transport.”

– Karen Abdallah

people in Singapore, London, Dubai and Indonesia to open more restaurants abroad.”

16/F, 18 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, 2884 0768, www.butchersclub.com.hk.

Delaney’s It’s all about the craic at the Southside’s favourite Irish bar. Guinness on tap, friendly staff and a warm atmosphere have made Delaney’s the go-to watering hole for Pok Fu Lam’s thirsty residents. Owner Noel Smyth is delighted to be announced as winner and is excited for the year ahead.

“This is clearly great news and a just reward for the efforts the staff make,” he says. “We are extremely lucky with our location here in Cyberport and the amazing terrace our patrons can chill on while quenching [their thirst] on a tasty beverage or two as the sun goes down.

With the summer arriving we are looking forward to bringing back live music to the terrace. Keep it Irish.”

The Arcade, Cyberport, Pok Fu Lam, 2677 1126, www.delaneys.com.hk.

“We live here and love the convenience of public transport, residential and tourist facilities, access to the outdoors.”

– Sarah Chung “It is so different there, yet there are so many interesting places to explore. Love the beach and restaurants. I would have picked Stanley, but I live there :-D” – Cathrin Jensen “Repulse Bay has a great shopping area and a nice variety of restaurants on offer.

At the same time, the ocean and beach are just in front of the door. You are not far from Stanley or the club – such as the American Club and the HK Golf Club – allowing you to really enjoy life.”

– Julia Rauscher “The sea is so nearby.”

– Wang Wei-wang “I like the atmosphere that reminds me of early 1900s Hong Kong. Old but refined and relaxed.”

– Monica Shin

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readers’ choice awards Best One-Stop Shopping Destination

Best Homeware

The Pulse It was a long time coming, but eager Southsiders have welcomed The Pulse by voting the new Repulse Bay centre Best OneStop Shopping. It’s not hard to see why, with its array of beachview dining options and attractive shops.

Shop at popular clothing stores Seed Heritage, Chickeeduck and Juliet & the Band, pick up funky beachwear and shades at Lovers & Friends or decorate your own ceramics at Loveramics. Eat at F&B outlets such as Classified, Coffee Academics and Limewood.

Workout at Pure South or be pampered at Pulse Aveda and Hair Spa. 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2835 6536.

Bumps to Babes Hong Kong’s largest mother-and-baby superstore, Bumps to Babes is a trusted choice for families. It understands that parents with small children need to be able to shop quickly for supplies then get on with their busy lives.

With thousands of products from reliable brands all around the world including furniture, formula, nappies, clothes, bedding, toys, and books, parents can find everything they need for their children under one roof.

As well as the superstore in Horizon Plaza, Bumps to Babes is more accessible than ever for Southside families with its newest branch at 2/F Stanley Plaza, Stanley, 2555 6318, www.bumpstobabes.com.

Best Children’s Shop

Indigo Living Voted Best Homeware for the third year in a row, Indigo Living remains a firm favourite with Southside residents with stores in Repulse Bay, Cyberport and Horizon Plaza (it also has outlets in Central, Sha Tin, China and Dubai). Look out for their new Spring collections including Tropical Delights, Left Bank Vibe, Modern Chinoiserie and a whole range of creative and fun pieces for kids’ bedrooms. As well as retail items, Indigo Living offers furniture rental, design consultancy, and a bespoke furniture service for commercial projects such as hotels, restaurants and casinos.

6/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau, 2555 0540, www.indigo-living.com.

Brand you'd most like to see open a local branch 28%

Marks & Spencer

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25%

13%

City’ Super

IKEA

13%

H&M

11%

10%

Others

Zara

readers’ choice awards Best Beauty Treatment & Best Spa Experience

Sense of Touch, Repulse Bay The runaway winner in our beauty and spa section, Sense of Touch picks up awards for Best Beauty Treatment and Best Spa Experience. They’re just the latest in a whole string of plaudits for the Repulse Bay centre.

“In 2014, we won Best Day Spa World Luxury Award, we won the Southside Magazine Reader’s award for Best Spa Experience, Best Beauty Treatment and Best Hairdresser and Winner for Favourite Mani-Pedi Spa. In 2014, we

also celebrated our 12th anniversary in the spa business,” says managing director Anna Treier.

“We always feel very blessed, honoured and exciting with every win. Thank you to our loyal supporters for continuously believing in us.”

The group continues to expand, with the opening of Beauty Nest, a one-stop destination for hair, face and nails, focusing on hair blowouts, mani-pedis and makeup. Check it out at the opening party on April 20 (see p.6).

“We are in the process of finalizing new

Best Workout or Gym Pure South – The Pulse Recently opened at The Pulse, Pure South is working out your bodies and winning your hearts. Part of the Pure Fitness chain, the centre offers both yoga and fitness classes, including specialist sessions such as aerial yoga, hot yoga and wall rope yoga, which are proving popular.

“We are so honoured and thrilled to learn this great news,” says assistant public relations and communications manager Michelle Chow.

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“The Southside Readers’ Choice Award means a lot to us because Pure South – The Pulse is our first hybrid location combining yoga, fitness and more under one roof. It’s very encouraging to be recognised for our efforts in serving the community of Southern district by promoting healthy and active living. Thank you for having us.”

Level 1, The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 8200 0908, www.pure-yoga.com.

projects internationally. Something exciting will be launched this year for Sense of Touch,” Treier promises.

1/F, The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2592 9668, www.senseoftouch.com.hk.

Best Hair Salon Capelli Hair Salon Narrowly beating out Central salon BYTHD (formerly The Hairdressers), Capelli Hair Salon in Repulse Bay is part of the Sense of Touch group. Located in a lovely naturally lit studio,it offers a full range of hair services from professional stylists who go the extra mile to ensure each customer gets the look and hair that suits them best, and advise on matching hairstyle with skin tone. As well as the Repulse Bay location, Capelli has opened a new hair salon and spa in Central. 1/F, The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2592 9668; LG/F The Ovolo, 2 Arbuthnot Road, Central, 2869 0939, www.capelli.hk.

readers’ choice awards Best Beach Winner:

Repulse Bay

Runners up:

Big Wave Bay

Deep Water Bay

Shek O Beach

Best Hike & Best Outdoor Activity

Pictures: Mark Lehmkuhler

Dragon’s Back My, but you love the Dragon’s Back trail. Winning Best Hike in our 2013 and 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards by a country mile, section 8 of the Hong Kong Trail follows the ridge from Wan Cham Shan to Shek O Peak, with fabulous views and a chance to end the walk with a dip and a meal in Shek O. Popular with hikers of all ages and abilities, it’s also a great place to take the plunge.

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Paragliders regularly jumping off Dragon’s Back and fill the skies over Shek O. In winter, they land on the main beach, but busy summer days relegate landings to the Back Beach. To take off with the Hong Kong Paragliding Association you must hold a valid license and be at an advanced level. Instructor Yuen Wai-kit offers lessons for beginners in Sai Kung and Ma On Shan ($1,000 a session; some people qualify in three lessons).

Details at pilotkit@yahoo.com.hk, 9620 0577.

Stanley Main Beach

readers’ choice awards Best Kindergarten Woodland Pre-Schools Woodland has nine preschools across Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. It offers classes for children aged one to six years, including preschool and extracurricular classes in a choice of Montessori and traditional teaching styles.

Accredited by the PreSchool Learning Alliance (London), the traditional classes follow the foundation stage of the UK National Curriculum.

It also offers a range of popular sports camps.

2559 4855, www.woodlandschools.com.

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readers’ choice awards Best Extracurricular Activity Faust International Established in 1999, Faust runs drama workshops for children aged three to 18 at venues across Hong Kong. In fun, lively sessions, Faust introduces children to the world of theatre and creativity, developing performance skills, theatre knowledge, teamwork, individual expression and confidence. Classes are open to everybody, with no previous drama experience needed. It organises several productions during the year, and gives every student a chance to perform in a professional theatre at its annual Faust Festival.

2547 9114, www.faustworld.com.hk.

Best Place to take kids on a Sunday afternoon Winner

Runners Up

Ryze Ultimate Trampoline Park

Dragon’s Back

Cyberport

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 33

readers’ choice awards Best Dog Walk

Pictures: Casper Chan

Tai Tam Reservoir With its amazing scenery, wildlife and plenty of space for dogs to run around, Tai Tam Reservoir wins your vote for the second year as your favourite dog-walking location. Tai Tam Country Park has four reservoirs surrounded by steep peaks and forest, and connected by a network of well-signposted paths. It offers some of the Southside’s loveliest scenery as well as city views from the upper stretches.

But your dogs won’t be interested in the vista: they love it for the chance to run for miles through the trees and flowers on shady, trafficfree paths, play with other dogs and maybe, if they’re really lucky, beg a sausage from families at the picnic areas and barbecue pits.

Best Vet Stanley Veterinary Clinic Southside Magazine voters made the day for veterinary surgeon Dr Michael Goodlet when he learned Stanley Veterinary Clinic had been voted Best Vet for two years in a row.

“This is just excellent, we really didn’t expect it,” he said. “This centre started in 1996 and I like to think we are proud to provide services to our limitations, meaning we are happy to refer patients to other professionals. Our staff is our greatest asset. They’re bright, cheery and happy.

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We are very lucky to have them, some have been with us for 15 years.”

This year, the clinic has expanded its services with new equipment such as a stereo microscope with a camera and a dental x-ray machine, and Dr Goodlet says there are plans to renovate.

“Currently, we are reviewing all existing equipment and hoping to do a revamp later this year. The space is 2,000 sq ft and is big enough, but we want to refurbish and are looking at getting a hydraulic table. For big dogs, such as German Shepherds, we have a lift if they have problem coming down the stairs.”

LG/F, 10-12 Wong Ma Kok Road, Stanley, 2813 2030, www.stanleyvetcentre.com.

Best Pet-friendly Restaurant Classified, Stanley Plaza Welcoming familiar faces and their pooches on a regular basis, senior supervisor Keem Barrientos wasn’t surprised Classified had been voted best pet-friendly restaurant.

“Every day we see groups of friends who bring their pet dogs and enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat,” he says. “We’re always happy to provide thirsty pets some water. Classified in Stanley is in a great location and our customers like to grab a spot outside in the open plaza under the umbrellas.”

G/F, Stanley Plaza, 2563 3454, www.classifiedfood.com.

readers’ choice awards Best Destination for Guests

Stanley Market Once again Stanley Market is your favourite place to take visitors. This hugely popular tourist destination can be busy at weekends, but savvy Southsiders who nip down during the week enjoy a far more laid-back ambience. There’s plenty of choice and always something new to find in its shady alleyways and little shops, many of which are run by families who have lived in Stanley for generations. Look for bedlinens, arts and crafts, souvenirs, fashion and sportswear as well as unusual local products such as Print House’s original T-shirts and South Bay’s animal onesies. We’re loving the silk at Lotus Village, liondancing puppet at Dragon and Hong Kong T-shirts at 1+1 co.

Best Hotel Le Meridien Cyberport For the second year, Le Meridien Cyberport takes the crown for best place to stash the in-laws. The hotel was the first in Hong Kong to introduce allergy-friendly rooms. Its dedicated Pure floor has 20 rooms with state-ofthe-art air-purification systems, hypo-allergenic pillow and mattress cases, and even tea-tree oil air cartridges for a relaxing and stress-free experience.

It has five restaurants and bars, including upscale wine bar Podium, Japanese restaurant Umami and Cantonese restaurant Nam Fong. But our favourite is Prompt, with its generous outside terrace overlooking the grassy areas and swimming pool. During the week, non-guests can enjoy the outdoor pool for $300 a day (excluding weekends), complete with Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, and food from Prompt. Memberships are also available (www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien). Cyberport 1, 100 Cyberport Road, Telegraph Bay, 2980 7000.

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Opposite page; inside Stanley Market. Above; a gallery owner poses for a picture.

Best Southside Event Winner:

Stanley Dragon Boat Festival

Photo credits: Prudential Beach 5s

Runners up:

Beach 5s

Pok Fu Lam Fire Dragon Dance

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 37

and the winners are...

Thanks to everyone who voted!

Here are the lucky prizewinners:

WINNER: Damien Campbell

Venture Photography package

Prize includes a one hour photography session, a one hour exclusive review, and one framed image to take home.

Valued $14,500 www.venturephotography.com.hk

WINNER: Wang Wei Wang

WINNER: Laila Nassar

WINNER: Aya Guillo

One-night stay and dinner at L’hotel Island South Valued at $10,819 www.lhotelislandsouth.com

Six-month contract at Pure South - The Pulse Valued at $7,600 www.pure-yoga.com www.pure-fitness.com

Six-months of top quality meat from Farmers Kitchen Valued at $6,000 www.farmerskitchen.com.hk

WINNER: Rachael Lawrence

WINNER: Sophie Swingewood

WINNER: Anna Yeung

Secret Ingredient private dinner for eight Valued at $5,200 www.secretingredient.com.hk

Feine Cashmere gift voucher Valued at $5,000 www.feinecashmere.com

Limewood dining voucher Valued at $5,000 www.limewood.hk

Congratulations to all winners. We will contact you shortly for prize redemption.

WINNER: Caroline Wong, Mary Law, Roy Ng, Chris Hall, Kathryn Bechdoldt Five dining vouchers for The Verandah and Spices Valued at $1,000 each www.therepulsebay.com

eating

Nibbles

News from the dining scene.

Easter fun at Cyberport Celebrate Easter with a special brunch at Prompt or tea buffet at PSI Bar in Le Meridien Cyberport on April 3-7. On April 4-5 weekend, it will also be holding Easter egg hunts on the grass at 1.30pm; free for families who stay or dine at the hotel or $50 per child. Inside the colourful eggs are grand prizes including hotel pool passes and lunch buffet vouchers. During brunch (11.30am-3pm), Prompt will also have a kids’ corner, with a magic show and balloon twisting. Adults $568, children $98. At PSI Bar, the tea buffet – think dim sum, desserts and scones – is available from 3.30pm-5.30pm.

Adults $298, children $149. Le Meridien Cyberport, Cyberport, Pok Fu Lam, 2980 7417, www.cyberport.hk.

Food on wheels Say hello to Black Betty, Butchers Club’s 1967 food truck which has been converted for off-site catering. Choose your favourite items from the Butchers Club’s varied menu, and Black Betty will pull up to your next event

and start serving. There is a minimum spend of $10,000, which includes a chef, server and disposable cutlery, plates and bowls. Tables, bench seating, marquees and wine glasses are available at extra cost. The barbecue and hog roast menus include dry-aged Angus burger, grilled and beer-basted boerewors sausage, and buttermilk fried chicken, all cooked to order by the food truck chef. Details at www.butchersclub.com.hk.

Harbour feast Top Hong Kong chefs join forces to present the Harbourfront Feast, a major three-day food event set against the city skyline on May 1-3. It is part of Dine & Design @ Central Harbourfront, a 36,000 sq ft festival of dining, design, fashion and music. Entry is free, with 12-15 top chefs serving up a smorgasbord of foodie goodness daily from 1pm-5pm. Central Harbourfront, Central, www.cvm.com.hk.

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Free home delivery on any mix of 6 Bottles - Order online at: www.winerack.com.hk 40 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

eating or expansive alfresco area. The barbecue is available at weekends and public holidays, noon to 3pm, $380. 3/F, 1 Tang Lung Street, Causeway Bay, 2771 3177, www.wooloo-mooloo.com.

The Chop House rooftop barbecue (left) and a strawberry tart from Kinsale’s new menu (right).

Spring calling Kennedy Town’s British-style Kinsale restaurant has a new spring menu featuring the best of the season’s specialities as well as a few old favourites. Dishes include handdiced poached shrimp ($158), New Zealand green-lip mussels ($168), warm salad of chilli seafood ($168), whole slow-cooked roasted rock hen ($238), and desserts such as peach and pineapple crumble ($78) and strawberry Bakewell tart ($78). Shop 3, G/F, New Fortune House, 3-5 New Praya, Kennedy Town, 2796 6004.

Take it to the roof The Chop House is offering a new barbecue menu on its rooftop terrace, with its stunning views over Causeway Bay. Part of the Wooloomooloo group, famed for its Aussie meat, the barbecue includes ribs, pork chops, lamb chops and Australian beef tenderloin. There is also a station to create your own burger, sandwich and hotdog. Other menu items include Cajun salmon fillets, mac ’n’ cheese, house pies and quiches. Another fun feature is the self-serve beer system, available in the dining room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, semi-outdoor bar

Congee on the beach Restaurateur Yenn Wong has opened a Cantonese cafe, Meen & Rice, at The Pulse.

It’s a funky little spot with a pop-culture interior and funny calligraphy on the walls. Meen & Rice will specialise in local comfort food such as home-style congee, fresh shrimp wanton noodle soup ($38), homemade rice noodle rolls ($32) and barbecue pork rice ($68). Level 1, The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2566 8886.

Dan Ryan’s TST reopens Dan Ryan’s Chicago Grill is reopening in its former location in Ocean Terminal. To celebrate, from April 20-29 it is offering selected items at the prices it charged when the chain opened in 1989. Items include potato skins at $48 and a rib and chicken combo at $138. Level 3, Ocean Terminal, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2735 6111, www.windy-city.com.hk.

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Alexander Croft 6539 8613 Ilkka Hyttinen 9091 7140 WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 41

eating

Lucy’s Easter chocolate cake In the first of a new column, chef Lucy Humbert whips up an Easter favourite.

A sweet treat for Easter.

Method - Pre-heat the oven to 150°C. -G rease a 24cm cake tin and line the base with baking paper.

-P lace the chocolate, butter, cocoa and water in a bowl set over a pan of simmering water.

Once melted, stir to combine and set aside.

- I n another bowl, place all the sugar and the eggs and lightly whisk to combine.

-A dd the chocolate and butter mixture, then the milk. Sieve the flour and baking soda

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and fold into the chocolate mix. Pour into the prepared cake tin.

- Bake for one hour. Leave to cool and wait until completely cold before decorating.

- To make the chocolate glaze, put the cream and chocolate into a bowl over a pan of simmering water to melt.

- Pour the mixture over the cake, spread evenly and decorate with Easter eggs.

- Serve with cream or ice cream.

Cake - 225g chocolate (50 per cent cocoa solids) - 200g butter - 2 tbsp cocoa - 75ml water - 150g soft brown sugar - 150g caster sugar - 3 eggs - 100g self-raising flour - 100g plain flour - ½ tsp baking soda - 100ml milk Chocolate glaze - 150g plain chocolate, chopped - 75ml whipping cream Small chocolate eggs to decorate Chef-restaurateur Lucy Humbert has been winning fans for her cooking for more than 20 years at Lucy’s, 64 Stanley Main Street, Stanley, 2813 9055.

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WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 43

Bay

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big day out

zip-a-dee-doo-dah

Hang on a minute: zip lining in Tung Lung Chau.

Look, no hands!

Abseil and zip-line novice Callum Wiggins jumps off a cliff.

Tung Lung Chau is a mecca for people who like to scale walls. Whether climbing up, down, sideways or jumping between them, there is no better location in Hong Kong. And now there’s a new way to join the thrill-seekers: abseiling and zip lining on our very own adventure island.

I don’t have great memories of climbing.

When I was 10 years old, I went on a school trip to an artificial climbing wall. What should have been a character-building experience learning to abseil turned to disaster. Leaning backwards over a precipice, tightly gripping a rope, I was paralysed by fear. I could not, would not move.

Eventually, I was hauled back to the top and had to take the stairs back down.

Fast-forward to 2015, I decide to set things right and sign up for an abseiling and zip-lining experience with Klook, a new booking platform

44 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

for travel activities and experiences in Hong Kong and around the region.

Weekends see rock climbing and adventure-sports enthusiasts packing onto the ferry to Tung Lung Chau from Sam Ka Tsuen

Leaning over the edge for the first time is nerve-racking pier. The route operates only a few times a day at weekends and public holidays, there are no scheduled ferries during weekdays.

After disembarking, our guide leads the Klook group on a short hike from the pier up to the main rock faces, picking up necessary

safety equipment on route: harnesses, helmets and safety ropes.

At the top of the abseiling cliff, expert instructors provide a short demonstration and ensure all the harnesses and ropes are attached correctly. The technique involves leaning back over the cliff with legs extended and the soles of your feet against the rock face, and allowing the harness and safety ropes to take your weight. Adopting an almost sitting position and continually feeding the rope through one hand allows you to descend while keeping your other arm outstretched for balance and to prevent you from hitting the rock face. The harness and safety rope controls the speed of descent even if you start to lose control.

Leaning over the edge for the first time is nerve-racking, but friendly encouragement

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 45

big day out

46 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

big day out from fellow participants and the exhilaration of the abseil keep my nerves (mostly) at bay. My descent is steady rather than spectacular, but soon my feet reach the ground and I complete the 30m abseil faster than expected. With a rush of confidence and a helpful buzz of adrenaline, I find the next few descents much more enjoyable.

Time to zip line. A 40-metre wire is suspended across a gorge between two cliffs, 30m above the crashing waves. On a platform of rock jutting from the cliff, an instructor waits to attach your harness to the zip line. Carefully edging along the platform, I have a good view of the ocean and jagged rocks below. A few deep breaths, a final tug on the safety rope (just to make sure), and I jump...

While the plunge over the edge and whizz across the wire to the other side takes only seconds, the adrenaline rush lasts much longer. I race back to the start of the zip line and fling myself off the edge without a second thought.

The Klook gang learns the ropes, abseiling down a cliff and dangling from a 40m zip line

Abseiling and zip-lining is $480 a head for two to three goes on each and participants must be at least 14 years old. To book, visit Klook (short for “Keep Looking�) at www.klook.com. For enquiries, call 3462 6208 or email support@klook.com.

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 47

sponsored column

Applying to US Universities ITS Education Asia gives tips for prospective students and their parents Applying for university in the US can be gruelling. On top of school grades, students are expected to sit the SAT or ACT, request recommendations from their teachers, fill their afternoons with extracurricular activities, and write short essays for each university application. Here is how to begin tackling the daunting task of finding the right university.

SAT or ACT? In the eyes of virtually all US universities, the SAT and ACT are equivalent so only one of these tests is required. The main difference is the ACT includes a Scientific Reasoning section and is widely considered a better test of intelligence, but the SAT is easier to study for. Never take either test more than twice.

Choosing a university There are more than 2,000 four-year colleges

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and universities in the US. Once students have a rough idea of their SAT/ACT scores, they can begin to search for universities at which their applications will be competitive.

Students should strongly consider what knowledge and skills they hope to attain from a university education, and look for schools that are strongest in those departments. A higher “ranking� does not mean a school is the best possible choice for the student. It may be a general guide of a university’s merits, but students should evaluate how it aligns with their passions.

Start writing early Common Application essay prompts are typically issued by early summer and most universities release their own by August 1.

Once term resumes, pressure of schoolwork means many students do not give application essays their full attention. By starting early, students are likely to produce cleaner, clearer and more thoughtful essays. Students should always have their essays reviewed by peers, family and someone familiar with the US application process.

Extracurricular passions Students seeking a place at a US university will not be admitted on the strength of grades alone. Top universities look for individuals who are passionate and compassionate, and have a life beyond academics.

ITS Education Asia provides consulting services for students applying to US and UK universities, as well as tutorial lessons for SAT/ ACT, IB, A-Level, IGCSE and a variety of other curricula. For more details, contact sat@itseducation.asia, 2116 3916, or www.itseducation.asia.

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 49

Seaplanes connect the Maldives’ far-flung atolls.

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travel

Pictures: Hannah Grogan and Cherrie Yu

oh my, maldives

Clockwise from left: arriving at the Sun Siyuam Iru Fushi resort; sunset colours vary nightly; the water villas.

Paradise unpacked

Hannah Grogan visits a family paradise in the “necklace islands”.

Think of every postcard you’ve ever seen of the Maldives, every Instagram feed, every Google search... none of them do the place justice. This island nation in the Indian Ocean is paradise writ large: strings of tiny, palm-dotted atolls fringed with white sand, blue lagoons and coral reefs (Maldives is a Sanskrit word meaning garland of islands). The colour of the sea alone makes the heart sing. Seen from the air, on a seaplane connection from the international airport to one of the further-flung atolls, it is idyllically, impossibly turquoise. Cerulean sea blurs with azure sky until the whole world seems to be a blaze of blue that goes on for miles and miles and miles.

Where to stay Maldives resorts take over entire islands. This is one of the world’s favourite honeymoon destinations and shiny new wedding rings seem de rigueur on many islands, but the Maldives is not just for lovers. The five-star Sun Siyam Iru Fushi (www.thesunsiyam.com) is an awardwinning family resort, 100km or a one-hour seaplane trip north of the capital, Malé.

With pristine beaches and martini-clear water, the island is small enough to walk around in 30 minutes, but big enough to lose yourself in. Its award-winning spa is the biggest in the Maldives. The resort also has six restaurants and two bars, with plans for a new underwater

restaurant next year. While it’s hard to nip over to the next island for dinner, the resort ensures there’s plenty of variety from Maldivian beachside grills to fine French dining.

Guests stay in luxurious villas on the beach or built on stilts over the sea. Can’t decide? The Lily and Rose package (from US$2,198 for two people) lets you stay for two nights in each.

Our vote goes to the water villa. Perched over the lagoon, which laps soothingly against the stilts below, each villa has a ladder descending into the water for easy access and a glass panel on the floor so you can watch the fish from bed.

Spend the days counting fish or relaxing on a sunbed on the private deck. Expert design means each water villa is completely private from its neighbours – although we swear some of those fish were watching us.

At last year’s World Travel Awards – the travel industry’s Oscars – Sun Siyam Iru Fushi was named the Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort. It’s easy to see why. Children aren’t just tolerated here, they’re positively encouraged with activity packs, a kids’ club, kids’ pool and babysitting services. Even better, children under 12 stay, eat and play for free.

Sunsets are spectacular and spectacularly different, lighting up the sky in new colours every night. Catch it at Reflections, the adultsonly infinity pool and bar for over-16s only.

Children aren’t just tolerated here, they’re positively encouraged with activity packs, a kids’ club, pool and babysitting services The two-for-one happy-hour sundowners are particularly popular, so get there early. It’s one of the few times we were aware that the resort was at 90 per cent occupancy. Other than breakfast, when the buffet gets a tad busy, the vibe is unhurried and uncrowded, with plenty of space and no shortage of things to do.

Things to do Circling the entire island, the perfect beach beckons with sunbeds on the sand. Cool off by snorkelling among the colourful fish in the lagoon – pick up free snorkel, mask and fins on arrival – or for something a little more challenging, head to the reef drop-off behind the island’s Dive Centre. The wary can hold onto a floating rope laid over the reef to an offshore buoy and don the lifejackets provided in the villas.

The Dive Centre’s multilingual PADI-certified instructors are on hand offering courses for novices or willing to act as guides for more seasoned divers.

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oh my maldives

The colour of the sea alone makes the heart sing Throughout the island are little pockets of games and activities, including a life-size chessboard, table tennis, a recreation centre, billiards, darts and even a karaoke room.

The water-activities centre has plenty of options for adventure seekers, including jetskis, kayaks, snorkel excursions and sunset cruises. Experience local culture (the Maldives is Muslim, so dress appropriately) with a guided excursion to neighbouring islands, take a yoga class on the beach or be pampered in the spa.

Discover the capital If you have time between flights, take the 10-minute ferry trip from the international airport to Malé (the ferry is US$1). The Republic of the Maldives celebrates 50 years of independence this year but Malé has relics that date back to the 12th century.

At just 195 hectares, it’s a colourful melting pot of a city, with buildings daubed in pastel

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Take a day trip to Malé (top and left) — if you can drag yourself away from paradise, that is.

oh my maldives colours and architecture reflecting Arab, Indian and colonial influences. Check out the heritage Friday Mosque and the Sultan’s Tomb, then head to the nearby fish market and shopping street for handicrafts and souvenirs.

How to get there Cathay Pacific (www.cathaypacific.com) and Mega Maldives (www.megamaldivesair.com) both fly non-stop between Hong Kong and Male. Some resorts require an onward seaplane journey with Trans Maldivian Airways (www.transmaldivian.com).

No GoPro? No problem Hong Kong company Rentasuitcase hires out GoPro cameras and accessories, and even suitcases by the day. GoPro rentals start at $55 a day, with accessories from $10 a day. 13/F, Radio City, 505 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, 6183 4588, www.rentasuitcasehk.com.

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 55

pets The long goodbye Sally Andersen makes the toughest choice.

With all the advances in modern veterinary care, many dog owners are faced with the awful decision about when to let their beloved companion go after many happy years together.

It’s a question I’ve had to ask myself recently.

It’s impossible to know when is exactly the right time. There are many factors to be taken into consideration, including some that concern not only the dog, but also human family members who find the pain of seeing their old friend struggling too difficult to bear.

Based on my own experiences, these are the factors to take into account: • When quality of life is so poor there is no enjoyment or interest in food.

• The inability to stand and walk, or to control bladder and bowels.

• When there is pain that can’t be eased with medication.

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No departed animal would want to know its owner was sad • When there is no hope for recovery, but only a slow deterioration until an inevitable end.

• When the emotional pain of seeing a muchloved pet suffering is affecting one’s own life.

Even after deciding to have a pet euthanised, there will be doubt about whether it was really the right time, along with overwhelming feelings of guilt and grief. This is natural and it’s at this time that the next question arises: when to get a new dog. It’s something people often ask me after the loss of their pet. I always reply that it’s too personal

last post

hong kong creatures Greater bandicoot rat aka Bandicota indica

a choice for me to make for someone else, however, I do think adopting another dog sooner rather than later can help fill a void and bring happiness again in loving and caring for a new friend.

One dog can never replace another, but I’m sure there is no departed animal who would want to know its owner was sad and grieving rather than laughing with another. Also, with animal-rescue groups constantly overloaded with dogs and puppies in desperate need of a home, opening your heart to another dog not only helps heal the pain, but can literally mean saving a life.

Sally Andersen is the founder of Hong Kong Dog Rescue, a charity that rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes unwanted or abandoned dogs.

The greater bandicoot rat is the largest of the five Asian species of rodents. Growing up to 29cm long, with an additional 28cm tail, this stocky rodent has broad yellow incisors and a black or dark brown coat with a profusion of long black and pale hairs.

Bandicoots have a lifespan of about a year, during which females will give birth to eight to 10 litters, each with eight to 14 babies. Young are born blind and naked, reaching sexual maturity in 50 to 60 days.

Given their rate of reproduction, greater bandicoot rats are not endangered worldwide, although they are rare in Hong Kong. They can be found throughout Asia, from Sri Lanka to the Nepalese lowlands and from Myanmar to Taiwan, typically on the outskirts of human settlements.

They are often seen near rubbish bins and in most countries are considered a pest.

Greater bandicoot rats can tunnel through brick and masonry, causing considerable damage, and carry diseases such as rat lungworm and, in Myanmar, murine typhus.

Where to find them in Hong Kong: Mai Po, Pat Sin Leng Country Park and Lantau.

Steffi Yuen

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marketplace

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marketplace

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marketplace

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distribution

where to find us

Southside Magazine continues to extend its reach in our community, here is the latest in distribution news.

Pok Fu Lam

- Kellett School - Kennedy School - Mount Davis - Safari Kid - The Merton - Sunshine House Chi Fu - Sunshine House Pokfulam - Woodland Pokfulam Pre-School

Cyberport

- Baguio Villas - Bel-Air Clubhouse - Cyberport Arcade - Delaney’s - Indigo Kids - Indigo Living - International (Park N Shop) - Le Meridien Hotel Cyberport - Scenic Villas - Starbucks - Strive Fitness - Thaima-V

Larvotto

Due to popular demand, we’ve increased distribution to Larvotto by 30%. This marine-themed luxury residential complex offers unmatched waterfront views and is only 5 minutes from upscale shopping at Horizon Plaza.

Southside Magazine can be found at the Larvotto clubhouse and on the coffee tables of many of its residents.

Ap Lei Chau

- Bumps to Babes - Chapin House - Everything Under The Sun - Indigo - Indigo Kids - Indigo Outlet - Larvotto - Little Picasso Studio - Mothercare - Okooko - Pacific Gourmet - Tequila Kola - Rimba Rhyme - Shambala Cafe - Toof Contemporary - TREE

Aberdeen

- Aberdeen Marina Club - Brain Child - Colour My World - Elite PT Studio - Flex Studio - GCX - Golden Goose Gourmet - MUM - One Island South - Ovolo Southside - Park N Shop - Sift Patisserie - South Island School - The Mirth - Woodland Harbourside Pre-School

The Peak

- Cafe Deco The Peak - Delifrance - Glenealy School - Haagen-Dazs - International (Park N Shop) - Pho Yummee - Starbucks - Sunshine House The Peak - The Peak Lookout Café - Woodland Pre-School The Peak

Manhattan Tower

This exclusive residential building, tucked away in a lush country park setting, houses some of the most stunning apartments on the Southside.

All 40 units are 2,400 square feet with fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms, teak floors and best of all, large balconies to soak up the breathtaking views of Deep Water Bay and the South China Sea. Southside Magazine is now conveniently placed in the Manhattan Tower reception.

Stanley

- Biva Deep Water Bay - The Boathouse - O Thai Restaurant and Beach Bar - Cafe Groucho’s - Hong Kong Country Club - Chez Patrick - Park N Shop - Cheers Real Estate Limited - Victoria Recreation Club - The Chocolate Room - Classified - Core Fitness - Lucy’s on the Front - Mayarya - Mijas - Pacific Pets - Pickled Pelican Pok Fu Lam - Paisono’s Pizzeria Chi Fu The Peak Parkview - Pizza Club Tai Tam - Print House Cyberport Shouson Hill - Ricacorp Properties Big Wave Bay Aberdeen - Saigon in Stanley Bel-Air Deep Water Bay - Smuggler’s Inn - Spiaggia - Stan Cafe Repulse Bay Red Hill Ap Lei Chau Wong Chuk Hang - Stanley Cave - Stanley Main Street Bar & Cafe The Manhattan - Stanley Veterinary Centre Shek O Chung Hom Kok - Starbucks - Taste Supermarket One Island - Vern’s Beach Bar

South

Located in the elegant surrounding of Wong Chuk Hang, this highly prestigious office building with spacious design offers a fresh new world of unlimited potential for work, life and innovation. One Island South is ideally located with inspiring sea views of Deep Water Bay and lush greenery of Shouson Hill. Employees at One Island South can now find Southside Magazine located in the lobby.

Sheung Wan & Central

- Epic MMA - Escapade Sports - ITS Educational Services - Seasons Fitness - Sense of Touch - Starlit Art Space - Wynd Co-Working Space

Stanley

Tai Tam / Shek O

Repulse Bay

- Anastassia’s Art House - Bayley & Jackson Dental Surgeons - Dymocks - Escapade Sports - HS Modern Art - Indigo - Manhattan Tower - Miles International School - Sense of Touch - Spices - The Club - The Lily - The Pulse - The Somerset - The Verandah - Woodland Beachside Pre-School - The Woodland Montessori Pre-School

- American Club - Black Sheep - Ben’s Back Beach Bar - Cococabana - Craigengower Cricket Club - Eton House International Pre-School - Fusion (Park'N Shop) - Happy Garden Restaurant - Hong Kong Cricket Club - Hong Kong International School - Hong Kong Parkview - Lulu Shop - The Manhattan - Ming’s Cafe - Pacific View Residential Clubhouse - PIPS Kindergarten - Redhill Clubhouse - Shining Stone Restaurant - Soma Spa - Sunshine House Tai Tam - Wellcome, Red Hill Plaza - Woodland Tai Tam Montessori Pre-School

To advertise, email ads@fastmedia.com.hk or call 2776 2772

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 63

southside secrets

last law

Eight Houses Built in compensation for Stanley Fort, this 1930s terrace still houses the last of the Law clan. Cherrie Yu visits Pat Kan Uk. At the far end of Stanley Market, beyond the souvenir shops and clothing outlets, is a little terrace of eight single-storey red-brick houses with tiled ridge roofs and Bilbo Bagginsgreen front doors. This is Pat Kan Uk, or Eight Houses. Relics from a bygone era, the houses were built during the 1930s as compensation for farmers who were relocated when the British military annexed their land to build Stanley Fort on Wong Ma Kok peninsula.

All the beneficiary farmers were part of the Law clan and today one of their descendants, Law Pak-kin, still lives in Pat Kan Uk with his wife and daughter. He works in Stanley Market, where he runs a shop selling belts, sunglasses and accessories to tourists.

“I am the fifth generation of the Law family to inherit one of the houses,” Law says. “I am the only one left – everyone else has left the

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They’re good neighbours; we greet each other in the morning country. I will pass it on to my daughter.

“I was born in Stanley, in a clinic where most of us locals were delivered by the same nurse. It has now become an office. After my great-great-grandfather’s family lost their farmland, they mostly sought out work in Kowloon because farmland was hard to fight for,” he says.

Many of the Eight Houses residents went to work for British families in the area.

“They were really good people, they treated everyone well – made sure you have a place

to live, enough to eat. A lot of local families worked for them,” Law says.

The other seven houses have been sold out of the family. Despite their tiny size – just 300 sq ft plus a loft – the last house fetched $6 million.

“Foreigners like living here,” Law says.

“They’re good neighbours; we greet each other in the morning.”

In demolition-happy Hong Kong, it’s easy to see the appeal. Although the old houses are small and have no gardens, they have charm and character, surrounded by and there’s a lovely view of Stanley’s secret back beach.

“It’s quiet and the house needs a lot of maintenance – at least every two years. And the trees are more than four stories tall, when a typhoon hits it’s very dangerous,” Mr Law grumbles. “But I wouldn’t sell now, even for $7 million.”

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