That's Guangzhou - October 2018

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国内统一刊号: CN 11-5234/GO

OCTOBER 2018

城市漫步珠 三角英文版 10月份

China’s Tech Firms Soon to Blur Bounds of ‘Reality’




that’s PRD 《城市漫步》珠江三角洲 英文月刊

主管单位 : 中华人民共和国国务院新闻办公室 Supervised by the State Council Information Office of the People's Republic of China 主办单位 : 五洲传播出版社 地址 : 北京西城月坛北街 26 号恒华国际商务中心南楼 11 层文化交流中心 11th Floor South Building, Henghua lnternational Business Center, 26 Yuetan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing http://www.cicc.org.cn 社长 President: 陈陆军 Chen Lujun 期刊部负责人 Supervisor of Magazine Department: 付平 Fu Ping 编辑 Editor: 朱莉莉 Zhu Lili

发行 Circulation: 李若琳 Li Ruolin

Editor-in-Chief Matthew Bossons 马特 Guangzhou Editor Ryan Gandolfo Shenzhen Editor Bryan Grogan Senior Staff Writer Tristin Zhang 张岳烽 Staff Writer Jonathan Zhong 钟云帆 National Arts Editor Sarah Forman Contributors Edoardo Donati Fogliazza, Lena Gidwani, Mia Li, Erica Martin, Noelle Mateer, Dominic Ngai, Bridget O'Donnell, Valerie Osipov, Pete Reilly, Adam Robbins, Zhuorui Wang

HK FOCUS MEDIA Shanghai (Head Office) 上海和舟广告有限公司 上海市蒙自路 169 号智造局 2 号楼 305-306 室 邮政编码 : 200023 Room 305-306, Building 2, No.169 Mengzi Lu, Shanghai 200023 电话 : 021-8023 2199 传真 : 021-8023 2190 Guangzhou 上海和舟广告有限公司广州分公司 广州市麓苑路 42 号大院 2 号楼 610 室 邮政编码 : 510095 Rm 610, No. 2 Building, Area 42, Luyuan Lu, Guangzhou 510095 电话 : 020-8358 6125 传真 : 020-8357 3859 - 816 Shenzhen 深圳联络处 深圳市福田区彩田路星河世纪大厦 C1-1303 C1-1303, Galaxy Century Building, Caitian Lu, Futian District, Shenzhen 电话 : 0755-8623 3220 传真 : 0755-6406 8538 Beijing 北京联络处 北京市东城区东直门外大街 48 号东方银座 C 座 G9 室 邮政编码 : 100027 9G, Block C, Ginza Mall, No. 48 Dongzhimen Wai Dajie, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100027 电话 : 010-8447 7002 传真 : 010-8447 6455 General Manager Henry Zeng 曾庆庆 Operations Manager Rachel Tong 童日红 Finance Assistant Sunnie Lü 吕敏瑜 Production Supervisor Jack Lin 林川青 Designer Felix Chen 陈引全 Sales Managers Celia Yu 余家欣 , Justin Lu 卢建伟 Account Manager Wesley Zhang 张炜 Senior BD Executive Nicole Tang 汤舜妤 Account Executives Annie Li 李咏仪 , Tia Weng 翁晓婷 Marketing Supervisor Fish Lin 林洁瑜 Senior Marketing Executive Shumin Li 黎淑敏 Marketing Executives Peggy Ni 倪佩琪 , Kathy Chen 陈燕筠 , Marketing Assistant Wyle Yuan 袁咏妍 Distribution Luo Zhi 罗志 , He Wei Wen 何伟文 National Operation CEO Leo Zhou 周立浩 Financial Manager Laura Lu 陆晓岚 Communications Director Ned Kelly National Digital Business Director Vickie Guo 郭韵 Digital Content Manager Bridget O'Donnell Digital Miller Yue 岳雷 , Amanda Bao 包婷 , Orange Wang 王爽 , Yu Sun 孙宇 , Elsa Yang 杨融 , Kane Zhu 朱晓俊 General enquiries and switchboard (020) 8358 6125 info.prd@urbanatomy.com Editorial (020) 8358 9847 ext 808 editor.prd@urbanatomy.com Sales (Guangzhou) (020) 8358 9847 ext 802 sales.prd@urbanatomy.com (Shenzhen) (0755) 8623 3210 ext 801 Distribution/Subscription (020) 8358 7749 ext 828 Listings & Events (Guangzhou) (020) 8358 9847 ext 808. (Shenzhen) (0755) 8623 3220 Web & IT (021) 5238 5459 Fax (020) 8363 3759 ext. 816

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Distribution across the Pearl River Delta: 63,000 copies


Editor's Note

OCTOBER 2018

WIN

October has to be one of my favorite months of the year. In South China,

it means the heat and humidity will begin to temper themselves and you

can enjoy an outdoor meal without melting. Of course, October also means

Halloween, which equates to boozy parties and fun costumes (and who the hell doesn’t enjoy dressing up?).

To celebrate the arrival of autumn, we’ve assembled a fantastic issue of

That’s PRD for you to sink your teeth into. In addition to a fascinating Cover Story on China’s development of augmented reality tech (page 38) and an

interesting feature piece about Guangzhou’s super-late night markets in our City section (page 10), we also unveil the big winners from our second annual That’s Hospitality Awards (page 20).

Also in this issue, I recap Typhoon Mangkhut (page 7) and That’s Shanghai

We’re giving away tickets to some of the very best events in the Pearl River Delta, alongside a host of free meals and other goodies. Follow our official WeChat feeds and sign up for our weekly newsletter for your chance to win major prizes! To stay up to date, visit www.thatsmags. com or scan the QR codes below and follow our WeChat accounts.

Editor-in-Chief Dominic Ngai introduces readers to an out-of-this-world cafe in Guangzhou (page 26). As always, the latest F&B news awaits you in the second half of this issue!

And finally, I’d like to take this chance to welcome a number of new

ThatsGuangzhou

editorial members to the team: Ryan Gandolfo (aka Gandalf) is our new

Guangzhou editor, Bryan Grogan has taken over the reins as Shenzhen editor and Jonathan Zhong is our newest Shenzhen staff writer. All three of these

individuals come with media experience and we are excited for them to share their work with you in the coming months and years.

ThatsShenzhen

Happy Halloween!

Matthew Bossons Editor-in-Chief

Hourly updates on news, current affairs and general weirdness from around the PRD and China. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

facebook.com/ThatsPRD twitter.com/ThatsPRD youtube.com/thatsonline #THATSPRD

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38 COVER STORY

6 CITY

YOUR LIFE AS NEVER SEEN BEFORE

7 INTO THE STORM

China’s tech firms soon to blur bounds of ‘reality.’ .

Life on the front line of Typhoon Mangkhut.

10 DEALING IN DARK HOURS Exploring Guangzhou’s ‘ghost markets.’

15 CHARLOTTA GANDOLFO

Entrepreneur and designer.

20 THAT'S HOSPITALITY AWARDS 2018

60 EVENTS

THE WRAP

14 LIFE & STYLE

GZ

Forget the journey, go for the destination.

OCT 25-28 Riverdance

GZ

30 ARTS 31 PHILIP GREFER Founder of WISE, and co-founder of Fake Music Media & NEU.

NOV 3

36 CHINA MUSIC CORNER

Wang Feng

Three new homegrown albums on our radar this month.

HK

48 EAT & DRINK 54 THE LAST STRAW Restaurants in Guangzhou go green.

56 J&V VICTUALS Spice up your life.

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OCT 5-6 Beertopia MO

OCT 19-21 The 21st Lusofonia Festival



CITY

Early Retirement P8 6 | GZ | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

Dealing in Dark Hours

Exploring Guangzhou’s ‘ghost markets,’ p10

City Snapshot P9


TALES OF THE CITY

INTO THE STORM

Life on the Front Line of Typhoon Mangkhut By Matthew Bossons

A

storm of epic proportions touched down in South China last month, leaving widespread devastation in its wake. On the morning of September 16, Typhoon Mangkhut began a 12-hour long attack on the coastal regions of Guangdong province; the storm, according to AccuWeather, had the power of a Category 2 hurricane. On the previous day, at around 2am on September 15, Mangkhut made landfall on the Philippines’ largest and most populated island, Luzon. The storm – which was classified as a ‘super typhoon’ when it arrived in the Philippines – claimed well over 60 lives on Luzon, including at least 44 people in the town of Itogon after a massive landslide. In anticipation of the storm, schools across Guangdong province announced they would be closed on Monday, September 17, as a precaution. Transportation in the Pearl River Delta also ground to a halt: ferries were canceled, train routes suspended and roads closed. When the storm arrived in Guangdong, I was staying at a hotel on Dameisha Beach, in Shenzhen, with my family. When we had breakfast at around 9am on Sunday, September 16, storm swell was rushing from the beach onto the hotel’s patio and pool area. Hours later, powerful waves forced open the doors on the hotel’s ground floor and flooded the buffet restaurant. “This is the strongest storm to hit Shenzhen in 20 years,” the hotel manager told me over breakfast. “But we’re prepared and our staff members are familiar with how to deal with storms.” And prepared they were. Staff at the hotel were quick to relocate guests from areas deemed dangerous and power was maintained throughout the hotel for the entirety of the storm. Despite the onslaught of water into the hotel’s buffet eatery, staff were able to provide breakfast, lunch and

dinner on the second floor. No one went hungry, and life inside the hotel went on with relative normality despite the mega storm unfolding outside. Others were not so lucky. Inside the beach-front hotel, guests sat glued to their phones, videos were being frantically shared, both from inside the hotel and other areas of the Pearl River Delta. Footage of windows falling from skyscrapers in Shenzhen, Hong Kong and Guangzhou; paper and office supplies flying from windowless office towers; flooded streets and submerged parking garages; all of it horrifying, all of it very real. Despite planning to stay just one night at the resort, Mangkhut’s wrath meant that a Sunday departure was simply not possible. When my wife, daughter and myself finally departed the hotel on the morning of September 17, the sheer power of the storm was quickly put into perspective on our way to Shenzhen North Railway Station. Trees and lamp posts slashed clean in half, glass-strewn sidewalks and windowless apartment buildings: the damage laid bare

for all to see. Early estimates put the damage caused by Mangkhut in Guangdong at RMB200million, possibly more. In Shenzhen alone, over 8,000 trees were destroyed, while 68 street lights and over 90 vehicles fell victim to the mighty storm. Tragically, four deaths were reported in Guangdong province. In response to the natural disaster, the National Ministry of Emergency Management and the National Commission for Disaster Reduction activated a LevelIV National Emergency Response, sending crisis teams to aid in disaster-relief in some of the province’s more severely hit areas, such as Jiangmen and Yangjiang. While some may be quick to dub Mangkhut an anomaly (perhaps rightly so, based on past false alarms), large storms are predicted to grow more frequent in the future due to climate change. If you haven’t already, it may be time to invest in an emergency kit to keep around the house – I know I will.

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THE BUZZ RANDOM NUMBER

DON’T YOU KNOW WHO I AM?

9 hours

Horse Riding Woman

That’s how long it takes to travel from Beijing to Hong Kong via high-speed rail, with the opening of the GuangzhouShenzhen-Hong Kong High-Speed Rail on September 23. The new route is the first high-speed route to Hong Kong from the Chinese mainland. Ticket prices for the Beijing-Hong Kong route start from RMB1,077. The journey from Shanghai’s Hongqiao Station to Hong Kong’s new West Kowloon Station can be completed in eight hours and 17 minutes for the price of just RMB1,008 (second class seats) on the new train. The train will also significantly cut travel times within the Pearl River Delta region. The 48-minute journey from Guangzhou South to Hong Kong will cost as low as RMB214 (HKD260), while fares from Futian and Shenzhen North will start from RMB66 (HKD80) and RMB74 (HKD90), respectively. The trip from Shenzhen Futian Station to Hong Kong will take just 15 minutes.

Videos and images of a woman riding a horse in downtown Shanghai went viral last month. The 26-year-old woman wearing a black tank top and high-heeled boots was seen with her steed near the Yan’an Lu elevated road. When passersby asked what she was doing, she responded: “Nothing, this is my pet.” The woman and her horse were temporarily detained by police following the incident, but it wasn’t her first run-in with the law as she had received a warning from police the day before her stunt for keeping the horse in her residential compound, which is illegal in Shanghai’s urban areas. Authorities told the woman and her equine companion to GTFO ASAP. The horse has not been seen since. Scan the code to see more photos and video from the incident.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

Scan the code to learn more about the new high-speed rail.

“No one can shoulder the responsibilities of chairman and CEO forever.” So wrote Alibaba cofounder and chairman Jack Ma in a letter announcing his plans to retire next year. Under the 12-month succession plan, the tech billionaire will hand the reins over to 46-year-old Daniel Zhang in September 2019. Ma will also remain on Alibaba Group’s board of directors until the annual general meeting of shareholders in 2020. Following his retirement, Ma plans to spend more of his time and fortune pursuing philanthropy and education. Scan the code to see a video of Ma giving a motivating pep talk to Alibaba employees in 1999.

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E D I T O R . P R D @ U R B A N A T O M Y. C O M

kejin / kè jīn / 氪金 v. to spend a lot of money playing a game, or on ingame purchases Ah that guy just killed me! I didn't do anything to him. Why?

Because he can. Look at all the weapons he has. He is a kejin player. But I want revenge! Then you better kejin too!

CITY SNAPSHOT

In case you missed it in the news, the global economy is not doing so hot right now. Scientists have discovered that the gaming industry does especially well when the economy is bad, possibly because gaming helps us escape to a fantasy world where we have special powers, can buddy up with our best friends and conquer exotic lands, and have fulfilling lives. The gaming industry in China is booming right now, and many Chinese gamers are willing to pay hundreds – sometimes thousands – for features and weapons in games, with per-user spending growing 10-fold year-on-year. When you drop serious money in an online game, it's called kejin. To be clear, we are not talking about the measly 5 yuan spent so you can customize your character's haircut here. Kejin is dropping one month's rent so your character in the game looks really fly, or has exclusive powers and spells, or to even take your virtual girlfriend out in style. Those who support kejin say it's okay to spend money to have fun, while those who are opposed to it say if you always kejin to take your virtual girlfriend out, she'll be the only girlfriend you'll ever have. More cynical players even say that the ke in kejin comes from the word 'lesson,' and jin means money. Together, kejin means 'lessons you pay for,' as in you'll regret doing it but hopefully learn to know better next time. If you don't kejin, it might take you months to get to the same level as the kejin players. The things you toil for, other players can just kejin and get it instantly. But wait a minute, we thought games were supposed to be our escape from the real world... Well, at least happiness is guaranteed in games when you pay. Another round of World of Warcraft, anyone? Mia Li

‘Futian Rising’ This month’s featured image was captured by Instagram user @this_is_sammy_samosa in Shenzhen’s Futian District shortly after sunrise last month. In the back of the photo, you can see the top of Ping An International Finance Centre – Shenzhen’s tallest building and the fourth tallest building in the world at 599 meters. Tag #thatsguangzhou or #thatsshenzhen for a chance to be featured on our feed and in the magazine.

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CIT Y | F E AT URE

DEALING IN DARK HOURS Exploring Guangzhou’s ‘Ghost Markets’ By Tristin Zhang

Y

ou’d be forgiven for thinking the pedestrian pathway on Haizhu Bridge would be dead quiet at 4am, but you’d be wrong. Every morning, from around 3am until whenever the chengguan show up (usually between 6-7am), the tranquility of nighttime along the Pearl River is broken by the bustle of commerce, with a motley crew of street vendors and antique peddlers setting up shop along the western side of the iconic bridge. On a Saturday morning back in May, we pulled ourselves out of bed sometime between 2 and 3am to pay a visit to this latenight phenomenon. Known as a ‘ghost market’ to Guangzhou locals, we were tipped-off to the existence of the Haizhu Bridge market by word of mouth. Admittedly skeptical (and half expecting to find a deserted,

dark bridge), we arrived at the river crossing sometime around 4am and were surprised to find a hive of activity. Stretching from Nanhua Dong Lu, in the south, over the entirety of the bridge’s western sidewalk, the first and most famous ghost market on our list was crammed full of buyers and sellers. Old fishing equipment, Republic of China-era coins, pornographic DVDs, baijiu, a violin with broken strings: the items on offer at the Haizhu Bridge ghost market ran the gambit. Old women sifted through secondhand dresses, mixed amongst heaps of assorted garments. Middle-age men scrutinized jade stones, antiques and old badges under the light of handheld torches, their shadows cast long over the trinkets strewn across the surface of the sidewalk. We started our early morn-

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F E AT URE | CIT Y

ing shopping excursion at the south side of Haizhu Bridge. On our way up the bridge deck, we encountered a vendor hawking Chinese medicine-related items. As we passed, he bragged aloud about his collection of high-quality mushrooms; in front of him, a copy of American Drug Index (1982) rests amongst a selection of Chinese cookbooks. Also in his possession: a copy of Mao’s Little Red Book, an ancient Herica camera, a handbag and a stone grinder for herbs. As for the prices at the market? Dirt cheap. We asked Ms. Wang, another vendor on the bridge, the price of a ‘power twister bar’ (a piece of exercise equipment comprised of a metal coil and two grips), to which she replied “8 kuai.” We made small talk with Wang (in Chinese, gasp!), asking here where she is from. “Ai ya! He is speaking Chinese? Where is he from?” asked Wang. “Canada. Vancouver,” we responded in Chinese. “Vancouver! My friend is living in Vancouver. Her whole family has moved over there,” Wang

stated with unbridled enthusiasm. With a smile, Wang told us about her friend who had left China for Canada, before filling us in on the nuances of dumplings – the preferred edible in her home region of North China. As the hands on the clock neared 7am, traffic on the bridge began to pick up. Around this time, a posse of chengguan arrived at the makeshift market. “Pack up and leave,” they ordered.

---------------------------------

T

he origin of the ghost markets is difficult to trace. Also referred to as ‘tianguang xu,’ or ‘daybreak markets,’ ghost markets generally sell secondhand goods, collectables and antiques (some more authentic than others…). They are the Chinese equivalent of flea markets, but with one important distinction: vendors do not pay rent.

As the name implies, these open-air marketplaces operate, for the most part, during the early hours of the morning, owing to their illegality by city management regulations. Similar markets are also run in Hong Kong and Jiangmen, west of Guangzhou. Today, there are only two ghost markets left in Guangzhou. In earlier times, there were as many as six of these unique flea markets operating in the old parts of town. The ‘ghost market’ on Renmin Bei Lu, which runs south from Guangzhou Railway Station, closed in October of 2016, but the way it initially came into being is an intriguing story. “After the Reform and Opening-up Policy, grave robbers from Henan would carry artifacts down to Guangzhou to sell. Because the only train back then arrived in Guangzhou at 3am, they would just sell [the artifacts] on Renmin Bei Lu,” Wu Kaisi told us over early morning dim sum, after showing us around the market on Guangta Lu, where Guangzhou’s oldest mosque is situated. On our second visit to the Haizhu Bridge market, Wu, 23, served as our guide. A law major graduate from South China University of Technology, Wu is a ‘professional ghost market’ goer who has a passion for vintage, secondhand trinkets. He has been running a daybreak market tour every Saturday (aside from rainy days) for two years. “Hey, you there!” a vendor called to Wu in a friendly man-

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CIT Y | F E AT URE

ner as we walked past his post on the bridge deck. With us were two other ‘tourists,’ one of whom locked her eyes on a pair of earrings. In an attempt to barter, the woman asked for the accessories at a much lower price than the given cost of RMB30, irritating the owner, who snapped at the woman in Cantonese. Continuing our confrontational visit to the market, Wu later engaged in a fiery exchange with a shirtless male vendor, telling the salesman to “shut up” as we walked away. ---------------------------------

B

ack in October of 2017, Wu was interviewed by CCTV. The news network was interested in why he chose to become a ‘junkman’ after graduating with a law degree from one of the best universities in China. While court rooms and legal documents are something Wu has shunned, he does more than just run late-night shopping tours. Wu also operates a vintage store in Xiaozhou village, where a collection of his timeworn collectibles are available for purchase. In his house near the shop, Wu’s living room is chockfull of bizarre items, from African masks, old books and aged porcelain, to old cameras, Buddha figurines and boom boxes. According to Wu, the vendors on Haizhu Bridge are a mix of vagrants, scavengers, antique resellers and “those who sell gold bricks,” otherwise known as folks selling high quality knockoffs at rock-bottom prices.

During our visit to the bridge with Wu, he purchased himself a pair of fake Nike shoes at the wallet-busting cost of RMB2. Vendors at the Haizhu Bridge market only gather on the west side of the river crossing, owing to the fact that the opposite side of the bridge is under the jurisdiction of Yuexiu District. The west side is under the authority of Haizhu District. If the vendors decided to open shop on the east side of the bridge in addition to the west, it would mean dealing with chengguan from both districts and a complicated regulatory process. Tolerated until 8.30am each morning, the Guangta Lu market in Liwan District is more self-

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After the Reform and Opening-up Policy, grave robbers from Henan would carry artifacts down to Guangzhou to sell. Because the only train back then arrived in Guangzhou at 3am, they would just sell [the artifacts] on Renmin Bei Lu regulated, with the majority of vendors consisting of antique shop owners (which, we might add, means higher prices). From old books, sketches and Chinese ink paintings, to old coins, vases and pornographic posters, the material scope of this market doesn’t fall short either. When we visited the Guangta Lu market, vendors were lined up on both sides of the street, as well as the adjoining Haizhu Zhong Lu. As we were examining some old Yuan Shikai coins, Wu came over and patted our shoulders, a sign to inform us that the ‘vintage’ coins were not real. “This market is a platform

where buyers and vendors get acquainted with each other,” Wu told us, noting that he has met and befriended several like-minded individuals at the Guangta Lu market. For city management officials, the ‘ghost markets’ are clearly a nuisance, a ‘tumor’ to be removed from the city’s streets. For the vendors, however, the markets are a place they can make a living, and be part of Guangzhou’s cultural heritage. For us, the thrifty shopper, the markets serve as a real-life Treasure Island, where the chance to discover something truly special brings us back time and time again.



LIFE

P HO T O E S S AY | CI T Y

CI T Y | P HO T O E S S AY

&

STYLE Gone Dark

A concrete jungle-inspired cafe in Guangzhou, p26

Qinghui Garden P18 1 4 | | GGZZ | | OOCCTTOOBBEERR 22001 188 | | WWWWWW. .TTHHAATTSSMMAAGGSS. .CCOOMM

That's Hospitality Awards 2018 P20


SPOTLIGHT

CHARLOTTA GANDOLFO

Entrepreneur and Designer Interview by Dominic Ngai

Originally from Sweden, Charlotta Gandolfo launched her eponymous womenswear label a little more than a year ago in Shanghai. Bringing a minimalist touch to traditional resort wear, Gandolfo’s dresses are inspired by her upbringing and adventures around the world. What’s the inspiration behind your brand? I design for internationally minded women who travel. I decided to create the brand because there wasn’t really anything that caters to us and our needs: versatile clothes that are both elegant and effortless and made with high-quality material. What is Scandinavian resort wear?

Growing up in Scandinavia, my taste is influenced by the minimalistic aesthetic from the region. This allows me to bring a unique perspective and an understated tone to resort wear, a category dominated by overly ethnic designs and material. With my designs, you can dress up or dress down for different occasions, and they’re versatile enough to transition from beaches to the streets of urban metropolises. What occasions are your dresses most suitable for?

For us, resort is neither a season nor a place, but a state of mind. With an air of playfulness and ease, my dresses aren’t only for being worn at a specific place – it’s an aesthetic, or a mood. I’ve seen my customers wear them at weddings, nightclubs in Ibiza, swimming pools of resorts, casual dinners with friends, date nights, parties, attending red carpet events and even during their travels to exotic destinations. How has customer feedback been since you launched your brand last September? The customers love it. Despite having pro-

duced a large quantity, everything sold out quickly and now there is a waiting list for most of the items for the summer collection.

What are your top bestselling items at the moment, and why do you think they’re so popular? One of the most popular is the Slip Dress, which looks simple, but the cut makes every woman look amazing. I have several customers who bought it in every color because it’s so easy to wear and very comfortable. Another one is the Biker Jacket, a sequin jacket in pale gold or snakeskin that adapts the brand’s design concept for fall and winter. My customers wear it as an evening jacket with a statement skirt, or with jeans, sneakers and a tee for a chic and casual look. What’s your personal favorite item from your collection, and what accessories would you pair with it?

I love all items in my collection but an outfit

I wear a lot is the Black Jerry Silk Jacket and the Black Silk Harem Pants, that I usually pair with black simple pointy flats during the day, and metallic heels and clutch at night. I also wear the Grace Maxi Skirt and the white silk tank top a lot. They’re perfect for hanging out at my country house in the Stockholm archipelago, as well as for attending a Mediterranean wedding. The Flora Sandal in Pink Gold from the collection goes very well with this fabric. What’s next for the brand?

This winter, I’m adding gorgeous knitted silk essentials – think cardigans and shrugs – to my collection. I’m also working with a friend, and Italian female artist, to develop the next generation of metallic jacquard pattern as well as a new delicate floral print. In addition, some of the world’s most exclusive resorts are reaching out to me to sell my collection in their shops. There’s a lot to look forward to. Find out more at charlottagandolfo.com

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STYLE RADAR COVET

UNDER THE LENS

Angel Chen’s NYFW Debut

New Women’s Watch Collection by Kate Wood

Last month, Shenzhen-born designer Angel Chen made her debut at New York Fashion Week to showcase her SS19 collection. The Central Saint Martins alum wowed the audience with her penchant for loud colors, bold patterns and ethnic elements, which all take center stage in her latest work. Scan the QR code to watch a full recap of her show.

Known for their watches, sunglasses and bicycles made with natural wood and bamboo, Shanghai-born lifestyle brand Kate Wood has been busy planning its expansion to Bali and Amsterdam while simultaneously working on a new three-piece collection of women’s watches. Named after European cities – Geneva, Vienna and Turin – all three feature wooden cases and leather straps of different colors, as well as a touch of metallic finishing.

nyfw.com/tmall-china-day-angel-chen

katewood.com

OVERHEARD

“Can I get a mantou with that?” So writes one Weibo user in response to the Lao Gan Ma hoodie that went viral during last month’s Tmall China Day event during New York Fashion Week. Tao Huabi, the 71-year-old founder of the world famous Guizhou-style chili sauce, became an unlikely fashion sensation overnight after the sauce’s logo (her face) was designed onto hundreds of bright red sweaters and sold at an Opening Ceremony pop-up shop. These sweaters are also available via Tmall for approximately RMB130 each. Get them while they’re hot. tmall.com

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LIFE & ST YLE | F E AT URE

DAYTRIPPER

Qinghui Garden

S

hunde: that far-flung district in Foshan that you’ve never been to. The area provides an inside look at the unglamorous lifestyle found on the fringes of first-tier cities across South China. However, what Shunde lacks in infrastructure and fancy buildings, it makes up for with rich culture and great food. Qinghui Garden, located in Daliang, a bustling section of Shunde, is one of the district’s must-visit locations. The site was formerly the home of a top scholar, Huang Shijun, but was later purchased by a man named Long Yingshi. Long’s eldest son, Long Tinghuai, started to build Qinghui Garden during the Qing Dynasty in 1805. His sons and grandsons continued to build and renovate the site until the beginning of the Republican era. With an affordable RMB15 entrance fee, Qinghui Garden is home to tranquil ponds and stunning architecture. Wandering through the garden, we saw firsthand the effort that goes into maintaining such a scenic spot, watching one maintenance worker trim a bush while balancing on a 4-foot tall rock. While walking through Qinghui, we were continually transferring between indoors

and outdoors, as the garden is home to several structures that function primarily as a museum. The intricately designed buildings host various exhibits that display exquisite rock formations, glass window paintings and calligraphy. With a network

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of passageways linking the buildings, the museum portion is aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate. The garden itself is a brilliant blend of art and nature. The water features are mesmerizing to watch and listen to, and turtles, ducks and koi fish navigate the waterways at a leisurely pace – occasionally snapping up food tossed into the water by curious children. A rock-carved stairway, located at the back of the garden, led us to a secluded hilltop spot, housing a quaint pagoda with smooth, cool wooden benches. We took some time here to relax, looking out at the city and the gardens below. Next, we ventured to the park’s manmade cave, a popular spot on a hot South China day due to the cool temperatures within. You can access the cave via a staircase on the backside of the aforementioned hill, or enter from the cavern’s waterfront entrance by hopping from stone to stone across Qinghui’s largest pond. Once we were finished exploring the garden, which took about two hours at a relaxed pace, we sauntered over to a small restaurant across the street for Shunde’s must-try

shuangpinai, a creamy milk-skin custard served either hot or cold. The restaurant, Minxin Laozhen, is located on Dongle Lu and is the perfect place to unwind with the locals after exploring Qinghui Garden. We suggest arriving at the park as early as possible, as the garden starts to fill up after 10am (especially on weekends). Also, be prepared to pay for the entrance fee in cash. RG

How to get there:

From Guangzhou: take Metro Line 3 to Shiqiao Station. Take exit D and walk about 100 meters to the bus stop at Baiyue Plaza East Gate. Take the No.349 bus (RMB6) to Guangzhu Chenggui Shunde intersection bus stop and transfer to bus No.314 (RMB2).

From Shenzhen: take the train to Guangzhou South Railway Station and purchase a ticket to Shunde Railway Station. Once you arrive at Shunde Station, take bus No.314 or a taxi to Qinghui Garden.



LIFE & S T YLE | HO SP I TA L I T Y AWA RD S

A

fter months of preparation and anticipation, the That’s 2018 Hospitality Awards were held on August 30 at the Conrad Guangzhou, the event’s first appearance in the Pearl River Delta. Launched last year, That’s Hospitality Awards celebrates the very best of China’s diverse and world-class hospitality industry. The ceremony and gala dinner were attended by over 220 prominent personalities from around China, among them hotel professionals, industry suppliers and members of the diplomatic and business community. The That's 2018 Hospitality Awards party kicked off with a lovely wine and cocktail reception outside the Conrad Guangzhou’s grand ballroom. We then moved into the ballroom for the awards ceremony. The ceremony bestowed honors on the most innovative, ambitious and acclaimed hotels in China. Thirty-three awards were given out over 10 categories, with over 100 hotels honored. A huge thanks to our wine sponsor Summergate Fine Wines, water sponsor FIJI Water, spirit sponsor Camus and our ‘Gold Sponsor,’ Cathay Pacific and Cathay Dragon Airways. And of course, a major thank you to the team at Conrad Guangzhou for hosting us in their fabulous ballroom! Without further ado, we give you the winners of the That’s 2018 Hospitality Awards.

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HO SP I TA L I T Y AWA RD S | LIFE & S T YLE

NEWLY-OPENED HOTEL OF THE YEAR

THE MOST POPULAR HOTEL FOR BUSINESS TRAVELERS

Bellagio Shanghai The Sukhothai Shanghai W Suzhou The Shanghai EDITION Dhawa Jinshanling InterContinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center Hyatt Regency Shenzhen Airport

Pudong Shangri-La, East Shanghai The Westin Bund Center Shanghai InterContinental Shanghai Expo Greenland World Center Hotels Cordis, Shanghai, Hongqiao Days Hotel Beijing New Exhibition Center Ascott Macau

THE MOST HIGHLY ANTICIPATED NEW HOTEL OF THE YEAR

MICE HOTEL OF THE YEAR Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai Kerry Hotel Pudong, Shanghai Sheraton Grand Shanghai Pudong Hotel Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town Renaissance Beijing Wangfujing Hotel Langham Place, Guangzhou LN Garden Hotel, Guangzhou Pullman Guangzhou Baiyun Airport Marco Polo Shenzhen

InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland Le Méridien Hangzhou, Binjiang InterContinental Zhuhai

NEWLY-OPENED SERVICED APARTMENT OF THE YEAR Marriott Executive Apartments Hangzhou Fraser Place Binhai Tianjin Shama Changfeng Shanghai

THE MOST HIGHLY ANTICIPATED NEW SERVICED APARTMENT OF THE YEAR Shama Hongqiao Shanghai Oakwood Apartments Sanya LN Residence

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LIFE & S T YLE | HO SP I TA L I T Y AWA RD S

NEWLY-OPENED BUSINESS HOTEL OF THE YEAR

LUXURY SERVICED APARTMENT OF THE YEAR

THE MOST POPULAR RESIDENCE FOR BUSINESS TRAVELERS

Marriott Shanghai Kangqiao Hyatt Place Shanghai Tianshan Plaza

GTC Residence Beijing Ascott Raffles City Shenzhen

Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East Jing An Kerry Residences

THE MOST HIGHLY ANTICIPATED CO-LIVING APARTMENT OF THE YEAR Cohost West Bund

NEWLY-OPENED FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTEL OF THE YEAR The Qube Hotel Shanghai Sanjiagang

TRENDY LUXURY HOTEL OF THE YEAR Conrad Guangzhou

AWARD FOR EXCELLENT HOTEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY Suning Hotels & Resorts

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HO SP I TA L I T Y AWA RD S | LIFE & S T YLE

AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CITY VIEW Le Royal Méridien Shanghai The St. Regis Shenzhen

LUXURY HOTEL OF THE YEAR The St. Regis Shanghai Jingan Jumeirah Nanjing Jing An Shangri-la, West Shanghai Four Seasons Hotel Pudong, Shanghai Grand Hyatt Shanghai Waldorf Astoria Chengdu Fairmont Peace Hotel Waldorf Astoria Beijing W Guangzhou The Langham, Shenzhen

HOTEL SPA OF THE YEAR The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou FLARE Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Pudong, Shanghai

THE MOST POPULAR SERVICED APARTMENT FOR LONG STAY GUESTS One Sunland Serviced Suites Managed by Lanson Place Oakwood Residence Damei Beijing Grand Gateway 66 Serviced Apartments Somerset Grandview Shenzhen

BUSINESS HOTEL OF THE YEAR Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai Okura Garden Hotel Shanghai Hyatt on the Bund Golden Tulip Shanghai Rainbow Jinling Hotel

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LIFE & S T YLE | HO SP I TA L I T Y AWA RD S

FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTEL OF THE YEAR

FAMILY-FRIENDLY SERVICED APARTMENT OF THE YEAR

GETAWAY HOTEL OF THE YEAR

Hilton Dalian Golden Pebble Beach Resort Hilton Huizhou Longmen Resort Hyatt Regency Chongming

Kerry Parkside Residences Ascott IFC Guangzhou Oakwood Gold Arch Residence Guangzhou

Annshe Resort Hotel Sunrise Kempinski Hotel Beijing & Yanqi Island Hilton Zhoushan

BOUTIQUE HOTEL OF THE YEAR

ART HOTEL OF THE YEAR

AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING HOSPITALITY DESIGN

Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund

LN Hotel Five, Guangzhou

Indigo Living

LANDMARK HOTEL OF THE YEAR Park Hyatt Shanghai Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen

URBAN RESORT HOTEL OF THE YEAR Crowne Plaza Shanghai Harbour City Sheraton Dameisha Resort Shenzhen

CONTEMPORARY LIFESTYLE HOTEL OF THE YEAR W Shanghai - The Bund NUO Hotel Beijing

Sponsor 24 | GZ | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM


HO SP I TA L I T Y AWA RD S | LIFE & S T YLE

AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING HOTEL DESIGN

AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

The Middle House Andaz Xintiandi, Shanghai Niccolo Chengdu

Shanghai Jin Jiang Louvre Asia Hotel Management Co., Ltd Greenland International Hotels Group

HISTORIC HOTEL OF THE YEAR

OUTSTANDING HOTEL SWIMMING POOL OF THE YEAR

Pan Pacific Suzhou

Rosewood Sanya

OUTSTANDING HOTELIER OF THE YEAR Ken Chow Jimmy Sung Florian S. Kuhn Marco Avitabile Michael Zhu

AWARD FOR EXCELLENT RESIDENCE SERVICE Parkside Serviced Suites by Lanson Place Oak Chateau Atlantic Heights Beijing Kerry Residence Tyms Residence

The official water of the That’s 2018 Hospitality Awards

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LIFE & STYLE | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

GONE DARK A Concrete Jungle-inspired Cafe in Guangzhou Words by Dominic Ngai, Photos by Cao Haochang

Project name: .JPG Cafe Location: Tianhe District, Guangzhou Area: 24 square meters Design company: Infinity Mind The brief: Located in Guangzhou’s Zhukong International Center, the design of .JPG Cafe is inspired by the fast-paced and pressurized lifestyle of the city. Inside the small 24-square-meter space, charred reclaimed wood pieces of various lengths jut out from the ceiling and walls to create an almost claustrophobic atmosphere around the shop while bringing visual focus on its centerpiece – the coffee bar. infinitynide.com

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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN | LIFE & STYLE

A rectangular concrete coffee-making station sits in the middle of the room. There are no seats or tables available in this grab-and-go concept.

The cafe’s bright yellow entrance serves as a strong color contrast with the building’s metallic exterior. Walls and ceiling of .JPG Cafe are covered with leftover pine wood pieces that have been blackened after a carbonation process.

A barista shows off his craft at the bar counter amidst a sea of blackened wood pieces assembled in a random manner to resemble the chaotic life in modern China.

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LIFE & STYLE | ADVERTORIAL

A TRIP TO

URUMQI

Discover the Dramatic Landscape and Delicious Food of Xinjiang Compared to places like Shanghai and Beijing, Urumqi in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region rarely gets the spotlight for being a hot tourism destination in China. Nevertheless, this city is as mesmerizing as many other major cities. Geographically positioned along the historic Silk Road, Urumqi has long been a melting pot of different cultures. Composed of Uyghur, Hui Muslim, Kazakh, Manchu, Mongols and more ethnic minority groups, the modestly sized old town is packed with a vast array of business establishments. From street vendors selling aromatic local bread to traditional musical instrument stores, there is so much to see and taste in this vibrant place.

Landmarks

XINJIANG UYGHUR AUTONOMOUS REGION MUSEUM For a dose of insider knowledge of Xinjiang’s natural history and ethnographic makeup, head to the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum. There’s a remarkable collection of mummies, most remarkably the ‘Loulan Beauty,’ which dates back to 1,800 BCE. Although not intentionally mummified, these bodies have been extremely wellpreserved by the nearby desert for centuries until their excavation in the 1980s.

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NANG BREAD Nang is the culinary backbone for the Uyghur community. While it only has one name in Chinese, nang comes in all shapes and forms: from the donut-shaped buns that resemble a bagel to the gigantic flatbreads, they can easily fill up entire families for dinner. The breads are traditionally baked in tonur stoves, and you can see people carrying stacks of these home around the old town area.


ADVERTORIAL | LIFE & STYLE

THE INTERNATIONAL GRAND BAZAAR This iconic complex is a place you must visit in Urumqi. Built in 2003, International Grand Bazaar houses a myriad of vendors selling produce and traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. The nearby square also serves as the stage for ethnic dance and music performances, including a recital of the 12 muqams commencing at 8pm every evening.

TIANSHAN MOUNTAINS The formidable Tianshan or ‘heavenly mountains’ flanking the southern edge of Urumqi is an easy one-hour drive from the city. With the highest peak reaching an altitude of nearly 7,500 meters, Tianshan and its dramatic snow-capped terrains are well-worth visiting for excursionists, while fainthearted travelers can still drive up the National Forest Park and snap a breathtaking view at Tianchi (‘heavenly lake’).

Daytrips

THE TURPAN BASIN A three-hour drive away from Urumqi lies the old town of Turpan. Engulfed by the Turpan Basin (also known as the Death Valley of China), temperatures here can reach a baking 50 degrees Celsius in July and August. But don’t let that put you off from visiting the historic Jiaohe Ruins (or ‘Yarkhoto’), which remains one of the region’s largest and most well-preserved ancient citadel. Flights depart daily from Shanghai to Urumqi and are approximately 5.5hrs each way.

Food

MUTTON POLO You can find mutton polo – tender spiced lamb chops served with rice – in almost every alleyway around the city. This hearty dish is garnished with shredded carrot and sometimes apricot for sweetness, and cooked in a sizable pot that easily serves a dozen eaters. A small plate of finely sliced and pickled carrots is a common pairing to add a touch of zing to the palate.

PEPPERED CHICKEN This dish is a common sight at Hui Muslim family restaurants behind the Grand Bazaar. The chicken comes in halves or whole, and is braised until it’s tender before getting tossed with finely sliced red onions and marinated in a piquant chilipeppercorn sauce. The taste is fresh and pleasantly numbing, and is suitable for those with a penchant for Sichuan dishes.

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ARTS

Wednesday Campanella Bamboo Princess, p34

Coming to a Theater Near You P32 30 | GZ | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

Sino Celeb P33


DRUMROLL

PHILIP GREFER Founder of WISE, and Co-founder of Fake Music Media & NEU Interview by Edoardo Donati Fogliazza

Fake Music Media is one of the most respected and well-known record labels in China. Having brought the likes of Röyksopp, Hot Chip and Faithless to China while managing domestic artists like Nova Heart, SHAO and The Hormones, their co-founder Philip Grefer has gone on to develop a conference exploring the intersection of creativity, business, science and technology. Under the name WISE, on October 26, they’ll partner with UCCA, China´s leading contemporary art museum. Grefer talks to us about telling his parents what he does, AI and how technology affects the music ecosystem. What have been the greatest challenges and satisfactions of bringing Chinese musicians to the international stage with your label FakeMusicMedia? When we started FMM in 2008, it was an absolute novelty to tour a Chinese band abroad or bring international acts to China. So when we brought electro punk outfit Pet Conspiracy to Berlin, Cologne, Barcelona and Budapest, it was big news back here. They also played a legendary gig at one of the first editions at Hong Kong´s Clockenflap festival – every year when I go, people still ask me about it. Then, unfortunately, lead singer (and FMM co-founder) Helen Feng quit the band. We were just in Istanbul where we met Rodion, who would go on to become the producer of Nova Heart´s first album, so we put all our focus on this new project. Now Nova Heart is one of the best-known Chinese indie bands here and abroad. When we got a full page in Germany´s most important newspaper, I finally could tell my parents what I was doing all that time in China. Now we have our new signing, The Hormones from Chengdu, playing in Australia in November. It’s their first time playing outside of China, so that’s quite exciting.

“...I finally could tell my parents what I was doing all that time in China” How did you go about combining music and technology?

What should we expect from the upcoming WISE event?

It probably all started with Kraftwerk. When I was studying in California in the mid-2000s, you could already see that music was one of the first industries to be disrupted by tech. Companies like Spotify, Tencent, Apple or YouTube play an ever increasingly important role in the music ecosystem. But also, how music is produced has changed drastically. AI can now write music by itself, and it might soon be produced in VR or AR.

WISE is a platform for big ideas as well as practical knowledge. It’s all about learning, for your job, for life, in a fun and inspiring way. It’s about looking at the world from different perspectives and having them clash to create new insights. We have a wide range of speakers at the crossroads of creativity and tech. We’ll talk about China´s emerging youth cultures, the state of the electronic music scene, hip hop, voguing and where design is heading in the future.

Tell our readers about your most recent endeavor, WISE.

I wanted to create something where I can make good use of all the experience I’ve gathered in the last three decades and surround myself with people who are smarter than me. I studied political science, economics and history, worked in media, PR, a government agency, a gaming company, as an entrepreneur, and have been lucky enough to be one of the few foreigners involved in the Chinese music industry. It´s like a think tank for millennials, where we try to find answers to how we want to live in the future.

Your career spanned several disciplines and industries. What advice do you have for aspiring polymaths?

Try to stay ahead of AI, use your full human and creative potential to do so and enjoy your life. Find out more at wisenotwise.com and fakemusicmedia.com

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COLL AGE COMING TO A THEATER NEAR YOU TRANSCRIBED

“This AI’s heart is too dark, the music is shallow,” Shadow

SEPTEMBER 30

Director Zhang Yimou brings to the screen a story of ‘struggle and survival’ in a film that translates the visual style of traditional ink painting into a new kind of art. Set in the Three Kingdoms Period, an exiled king goes up against his doppelganger in a fight to reclaim his land and his title. Having been screened at multiple film festivals in the last year, this will be the official public release of the action-packed tale of darkness and redemption.

OCTOBER 16

Brothers of the Wind

After the death of his mother, a teenage boy named Lukas (Manuel Camacho) struggles to navigate his relationship with his grieving father (Tobias Moretti). As the two grow further apart, Lukas increasingly turns to nature to find his own path, upon which he discovers an abandoned eaglet. What ensues is a coming-of-age story of growth, perseverance and the relentless pursuit of freedom.

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a QQMusic user said of AI composer AIVA’s newly released album of Chinese music. While Aiva Technologies SRL’s music writing AI technology isn’t new, its foray into East Asian art certainly is. Their eponymous program has been composing music through ‘studying’ the works of Bach, Beethoven, Mozart and other canonical greats. Recently, ‘she’ chose to switch up her musical styling and released an album of Epcot-esque, Chinese-inspired classical music, which you can find on Spotify, Apple Music and QQMusic. AIVA’s Chinese name, 艾娲 (Aiwa), was specifically chosen because of its relationship to the terms ‘elder,’ suggesting knowledge, and ‘Nüwa,’ the mother goddess of Chinese mythology. Impressive as it sounds, it seems the AI sister from another mister may have yet to fully grasp the taste of audiences in the Middle Kingdom.

HAO BU HAO

Hao Twenty-one out of 324 films being screened at the 2018 Busan International Film Festival were either partially or completely filmed in China. While some of the nominees have already made it to theaters, like Chinese blockbuster Dying to Survive, others like The Island, directed by Huang Bo, will be making their debut on the global stage. These films will air alongside a roster of representatives from 28 countries in a nine-day celebration of emerging talent in Asia.

Bu Hao With a Crazy Rich Asians sequel set to be filmed in Shanghai and Hong Kong, Chinese audiences are still left waiting on the first film. The movie, featuring an all-Asian cast, was a smashing success worldwide, though currently has no release date in China. Here's hoping it hits theaters here soon.


E D I T O R . P R D @ U R B A N A T O M Y. C O M

SINO CELEB

Xu Zheng Not acquainted with Xu Zheng’s work? You should be. While we’ll forgive you for not being familiar with his role as a pig-like beast in the film adaptation of Journey to the West, Xu’s part in this summer’s hit black comedy Dying to Survive is credited with the film’s massive success (RMB3-billion at the box office). Here are five things you should know about Xu Zheng:

Born to Act: The Shanghai-born actor has been fascinated with acting since he was in primary school, when he took part in a plethora of school performances. In 1994 Xu then went on to graduate from Shanghai Theatre Academy, one of the best of its kind in the Middle Kingdom.

He Married His Co-Star: Xu made his mark with his comical portrayal of a pig-like character on the 2000 TV series roughly translated as ‘Sunny Pig,’ where he met his current wife, Tao Hong, while working on set. A Box Office Guarantee: After taking center screen in Lost on Journey, Xu directed and starred in two sequels – Lost in Thailand and Lost in Hong Kong, both of which were box office hits.

Sophomore Baldy: His signature bald head wasn’t a blessing to his acting career, causing problems for him at a young age. In college, classmates ridiculed him during his sophomore year when he started losing his hair.

He’s Socially Responsible: Xu was recently ranked No.1 on a social responsibility list compiled by Beijing Normal University and the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. Recognized for his charitable deeds, Mr. Xu is the face of a charity that provides health insurance for underprivileged households.

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ARTS | MUSIC

BAMBOO PRINCESS

Wednesday Campanella’s KOM_I Talks Fashion and Dancing Herself Clean By Valerie Osipov

I

t’s pouring outside. In the middle of the stage, a sphere-like figure made of gold foil flitters as it fills with air. The music has already started and seems to build with the rain, though the crowd at Beijing’s Strawberry Music Festival has long forgotten about their muddy shoes and dripping wet ponchos. Everyone is fixated on the stage, scanning every corner in hopes to catch a glimpse of KOM_I before she makes her grand appearance. The trendy frontwoman of Japanese dancepop group Wednesday Campanella is notorious for her quirky and unconventional live performances. She surely doesn’t disappoint this time – the glistening foil orb slowly opens, unveiling KOM_I’s dollish face as she peers out at the unsuspecting crowd with delight. Her vibrant stage presence can be compared to that of Icelandic indie enigma Björk, and is nothing short of mesmerizing – wideeyed fans stand hypnotized as the vivacious pop pixie prances across the stage, fluidly moving with her music. Though despite her incredible liveliness, out of the spotlight, she admits she’s quite the opposite. “I’m not [really an] energetic person. [My] performance is [like] washing myself. It sounds cheesy but [it’s a] ritual session for [myself] and the audience.” The group consists of two other members – Kenmochi Hidefumi and Dir.F, who are longtime friends and collaborators. From their first gig together in Tokyo to landing

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slots at festivals overseas – such as Tyler, the Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival in Los Angeles last year – Wednesday Campanella is well on their way to becoming an international sensation. But if you ask KOM_I, she still feels tiny. Bold, electric hits like ‘Audrey’ and ‘Aladdin’ from their sophomore release SUPERMAN playfully push the boundaries of bubblegum pop, enhanced with bouncy club beats that are dangerously danceable, while more surreal techno tracks like ‘Melos’ and ‘The Bamboo Princess,’ from their most recent album Galapagos, experiment with traditional sounds and showcase the purity of KOM_I’s angelic voice. “When I write, [I] like to preserve [a] scene or emotion I had before,” the singersongwriter says, stating that she embraces all

vibes as inspiration and the transformations they bring. “We are always changing, like liquid.” She does just that on her tracks, organically progressing from delicate vocals to edgy rap verses. Recently, the band gained even more exposure after being featured on Scottish synthpop trio CHVRCHES’ new single ‘Out of My Head,’ which KOM_I contributed lyrics to. Aside from being a music icon, the J-pop oddity is a fashion force as well, having been voted one of Vogue Japan’s ‘Women of the Year’ in 2017. “My current mood is 90s bitch,’” says KOM_I (though she never leaves the house without her wireless headphones.) “And I’m following many Chinese girls on Instagram. I’m really inspired [by] them because their fashion is fearless and they have [the] energy of [a] young country. I feel like China is the oldest and youngest country [at the same time].” Wednesday Campanella’s China tour includes stops in Beijing, Guangzhou and Shanghai. Though it’s not her first time, KOM_I is excited to see some new places in each city by day – especially Shanghai as she’s eager to go to Disneyland – and hit the clubs by night. “And hotpot! I would love to have hotpot after clubbing.”

Wed Oct 17, 8.30pm; RMB240 presale, RMB320 at the door. Mao Livehouse, 1/F, Zhongzhou Trading Center, Huizhan Nan Wu Lu, Haizhu District 海珠区会 展南五路中州交易中心1楼



ARTS | MUSIC

CHINA MUSIC CORNER

Three New Homegrown Albums on Our Radar This Month

By Sarah Forman

Flow West to You by 白百Endless White Xi’an-based 白百Endless White have just released their first album in two years, Flow West to You. While they’ve been around since 2015, they’ve swapped out a few of the original members, making for a new four-piece outfit that is really cementing their sound. Signed to Ruby Eyes Records, their shoegaze guitars, high-pitched vocals and frenetic power chords make for a 10-track dreamy kind of heartbreak. The indie rock band’s most recent album is more focused with a stronger production value to back it up. With each song featuring vocalist Zhang Wanyi more predominantly than their 2016 release, this album is bright and bittersweet, giving you feels all the way from the inside out. Listen here: endlesswhite.bandcamp.com/album/flow-west-to-you

Yoyogi by Kaygeeci Harsh lyrics can be heard on Kaygeecii’s second EP Yoyogi. The third song ‘-w-’ sports the lyric “I found your b*itch on Tinder, she called me little Bieber,” but the only thing this Beijing-based rapper has in common with the Canadian banned from entering the country is an affinity for Ferraris. It starts out with heavy, trap beats, followed by old school hip hop splicing, and ends with the track ‘Savagest,’ which pays homage to Tricky’s haunting, slow pace. Despite its short length, the four-track EP showcases a diverse range of rap produced by YUNGDOW and an entertaining array of styles from the capital’s underground scene. Listen here: kaygeecii.bandcamp.com/releases

Aerodynamics by Parachutes on Fire Parachutes on Fire have brought their latest album, Aerodynamics, in for a landing. All of their groovy, psychedelic tracks boast aviation-centric lyrics and titles. ‘Holiday’ has a beachy, piña colada-craving vibe, whereas ‘Tailspin’ takes cues from classic, space age ’60s rock. The band’s members are veterans of the Shanghai music scene, and their bold harmonies and appreciation for acoustic guitar bring elements of folk into the mix. Smooth sailing! Listen here: parachutesonfire.bandcamp.com/album/aerodynamics

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ADVERTORIAL | LIFE & STYLE

HOTTEST DEALS The Bestsellers on thMart Reusable coffee cups, traditional Korean wines and healthy, delicious oat drinks

Keepcup, from RMB95 Available in different sizes and colors, these Australian made reusable coffee cups are environmentally friendly, welldesigned, and most importantly, That’s readers can enjoy a 30 percent discount on these items during the month of October. Simply scan the QR code and get yours on thMart.

Bohae Matchsoon Korean Plum Wine, from RMB49

Made with green plums and aged for 10 years, this traditional drink is the perfect companion for a Korean barbecue feast.

Bohae Bokbunjajoo Korean Raspberry Wine, from RMB60

This award-winning Korean wine is made from locally grown raspberries and has been endorsed by many celebrities.

Oatly Oat Drink Original/Chocolate, from RMB150 Get these healthily delicious oat drinks by the dozen and share them with your loved ones.

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COVER STORY

YOUR LIFE AS NEVER

SEEN BEFORE

38


China’s Tech Firms Soon to Blur Bounds of ‘Reality’ By Adam Robbins, art by Dave Alber

39


COVER STORY

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Imagine T the Optimists' Future echnology progresses by leaps and bounds, radically changing everything. It frees us from our fossil fuel addiction; it even filters out the poisons and excess carbon in our air. Our livestock are spared as we grow new proteins people actually want to eat. Our lives are freed from labor, as ever-smarter robots do the heavy lifting and relieve us from our tedium. We’re free to expand our minds, internalize our technology or change our DNA to achieve impossible things. We join Elon Musk on Mars and live among the stars. While this could all come to pass – assuming we avoid the worst devastation, natural or manmade – one realm of technology has the potential to blur our understanding of reality itself. Augmented reality (AR), or mixed reality, is distinct from the full sensory-replacement of virtual reality (VR). In VR, our sight and hearing are completely filled with an artificial world of code, where nothing real remains. It’s exciting and potentially limitless, but most futurists consider it a niche technology, best suited for games and training exercises. With mixed reality, the world is still visible and audible, but enhanced with signs and sounds to show us more. “It’s not just a gimmick. Today, it’s around games and marketing, but I really believe it’s a shift. We’re not locked into a small 2D screen. We’re 3D creatures in 3D space – it can be augmented in the way it’s connected, way more than just a small tag. We’re trying to get closer to what we naturally do – we grab an object, we don’t click on it.” This eager movement to the future comes from Loïc Kobes, co-founder and CEO of the Shenzhen-based startup CoolHobo. The firm is working to create augmented stores for shops like CityShop or even Walmart. When it’s ready to launch, the app will provide info

on the history and rankings for products: the IBU of a beer, the organic content of a packaged meal and much more. But they’ll also provide a 3D model of the store, visible through your mobile device, so you can name an item and a virtual character will guide you there. True to form, Kobes serves as our guide to the state of AR today and the wonders it could become. “Tech isn’t going to stop – it’s still accelerating, with more GPU, more brain power working on it,” Kobes explains. “AI is working on it – analyzing algorithms, machine learning to classify what it sees.” And in mobile-saturated places like China, those machines can see a lot. “If 20,000 people run their cameras over a space, it’s incredibly accurate. You can start to make it very interesting in 3D.” The whole world could be mapped that way. Imagine going for a run in the near future, wearing comfortable mixed reality glasses (or contact lenses). The sky is a brighter blue, the path looks clear and you can see and hear a rushing river where otherwise there’d be an empty drainage bed. Your device recognizes potholes before you do and they glow to help you avoid them… or, if your autopilot is on, your headset adjusts your internal equilibrium so you veer to avoid the obstacles without ever knowing it. Configreality, also based in Shenzhen, has already developed algorithms to take the first steps toward that. Their ‘5x10’ project, commissioned by Shenzhen’s Design Society, shows the power of visual perception – shifted by VR headgear, novel space design and complicated math – to change a person’s walking path. “For now the algorithm is not in realtime scanning the physical space. So if you suddenly put a chair somewhere… the audience will have no way to avoid it,” Leo Liu of Configreality tells us. We can’t run on autopilot today because “the current headset is not

providing the related function… But yes, probably in the future.” Or imagine stepping before a mirror. With a gesture you see how you’d look in a dozen hair styles, various cosmetics or fashion statements. You can even reach out and feel them. Actimirror is giving customers some of those options right now. In your virtual reflection you could see that exclusive virtual pet that cost you thousands of points, or a tiny angel of your spiritual persuasion sitting on your shoulder with situationallyappropriate advice. Or you could visit with friends and family, who live on the other side of the world but are sitting in the chair right before you. Or consider work. “You won’t need people to be physically in the same room,” Kobes explains. “Give the sense of presence and there’s no need to take a flight for all those hours. It will change the way we work and perceive information. Helping humans to collaborate more because they can see the same thing at the same time.” Dealing with anger, trauma or despair? Your device could read your pulse and the chemicals in your sweat, then manifest that stress into view while a therapist helps you through calming exercises. Real-time monitoring would let you watch that distress dissipate. Or that AR mirror could reflect back your image as a person of another gender or race, helping to break down our biases. And of course any new technology will be conscripted to the search for love. When viewing potential mates through your device, you could see their availability, orientation, preferences, birth sign, diet and aura (of course there’ll be an app for that). Gaze into a crowd and the artificial intelligence can reveal your perfect potential match, enhanced and shining brightly as everyone else is dulled to grey.

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COVER STORY

Ahead of the Game W

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e’ve already seen the first dawn of this new era. Google Glass catapulted augmented reality into public awareness in 2013, though all agree that this was only a primordial version of what we’ll see. The display was tiny (a 13-degree field of view) and only offered text in the peripheral vision of one eye. But it was proof of concept and designers continued to innovate. In the years since, startups and tech behemoths have thrown money at the problem, with varying success. After a wave of VR headsets were released to general indifference in 2016, attention turned to AR options. Microsoft released its HoloLens visor in 2016 with industrial

applications – 3D modeling, architectural design – and a more consumer-friendly version is planned for 2019. Apple is rumored to release glasses of their own in 2020 and, sometime before 2025, Beijing’s nreal.ai should release “the lightest and most immersive MR smartglasses in the world,” according to Product Manager Zhao Zhihao. “Our glasses will have a 1080p high resolution and 52 [degree field of vision] and only weigh about 70 grams, twice as much as a normal pair of glasses.” The latest whizz-bang device is Magic Leap – funded by behemoths like Alibaba and Google, and promised to reach consumers by the end of summer 2018.

But Magic Leap has suffered through the cycle of overinflated expectations. An earlier promo, showing a fully-rendered whale splashing into a school gymnasium, seems a far cry from the reality that people have been able to demo: a tiny monster appears on your desk to toss rocks at your head. “There’s huge hype on these new technologies — people have too high expectations, too early,” Kobes notes. “You’ll have to be patient with the developer that the demo isn’t as impressive as they want… It’s easy to make a cool video about it – so there’s disappointment when you actually get it. It requires patience. It will happen, eventually.”


The Future is in Your Hand W

hile we wait for amazing new headware, developers in China and abroad have turned to the supercomputer that’s already in the palm of our hands. Pokémon Go was 2016’s killer app for this round of mobile device-based AR… though, of course, the app was banned in the Middle Kingdom. No worries, though: a Journey to the Westtinged copycat, “一起来捉妖” (Let’s Hunt Monsters), hit China’s Android app store in May 2018, courtesy of Tencent. Alibaba made a splash partnering with Starbucks for an AR tour of the coffee chain’s Shanghai flagship. Scan your mobile device over certain areas to watch videos or scan the menu to order instantly. In its Taobao app, the promise of augmented reality shopping is postponed as the company focuses on VR stores, available when shoppers buy a simple Buy+ headset – similar to Google Cardboard – slip their mobile device inside, press it to their face, and check out a few stores’ items. But if you want to handle all the different varieties of an item, you’ll have to wait. “If you are just creating a VR setting for one dress, it’s relatively easy. But if you need to adjust the model of the dress to fit different sizes and achieve it at scale, it’s extremely technically challenging,” Zhuang Zhuoran, senior director at Alibaba, acknowledged to Vice News in 2016. “We need to make some technological breakthroughs.” Baidu, the third part of China’s tech triumvirate, launched an AR Lab in January 2017, but hasn’t yet realized its marketing, healthcare and education aspirations. Instead, the company’s DuSee feature displays fixed 3D images and animations on your screen. Advertisers can add markers to print advertisements, which

(for Now)

reveal animated displays when seen through your smartphone. Or passengers riding Line 2 of the Beijing Metro can use their smartphone to view renderings of the capital’s nine city gates in their original form. It’s cool enough, but instead of a towering edifice that you could walk through and explore, the 3D image just pops up in your hand at that spot in the subway station. Of the BAT trifecta, Tencent is investing the most in technologies that could pay off with workably fantastic AR experiences. Besides their monster game, they’re spreading their massive cash reserve as venture capital to SnapChat’s World Lenses – 3D stickers you add to the world, as seen through your phone – and ObEN, a startup making strides in turning avatars from their current cartoonish proportions into something more lifelike. ObEN’s aim is to build the online representations of real-life celebrities – and create virtual celebrities of their own, recognizable and ubiquitous as Black Mirror’s Waldo the bear. Each technology will be essential if we’re to make people and virtual objects real in any meaningful way. Tencent also has a USD3 million stake in Innovega, a startup developing the least obtrusive headware we’ve seen. Their eMacula device combines contact lenses with normal-looking sunglasses for a lightweight device that’s ready for extended wear. The company has reported successful clinical trials and is now waiting for review by the US Food & Drug Administration, since contact lenses are involved. More promising still is Tencent’s patent-exchange agreement with Google, announced January 2018. Though tight-lipped about what exactly is included, Tencent likely received early access to ARCore, Google’s platform that shifts AR from only

recognizing specific markers to a much more dynamic system that recognizes surfaces and, eventually, everyday objects. The marker-based platform has been the standard for the past decade but “it’s very limited, if it’s not in the database,” Kobes reflects. “What Google [with its ARCore] and Apple [with its similar ARKit] did was recognize surfaces like tables and floors. You can place your experience and walk around.” But Google also gave developers in America and Europe an advantage in its March 2018 release. “For the first six months, that upgrade was not available in Asian phones. Because it’s a US company that controls the software, they get six months’ lead on experimenting.” Now that the advantage is starting to expire, Beijing-based Xiaomi announced the addition of ARCore to the company’s Mix 2S devices while TechCrunch reports that Shenzhen’s Huawei is in line to ink a similar deal for their devices. “When it’s here, the adoption rate by users is huge. Hundreds of millions using it, and all that feedback,” Kobes explains. “That’s why China is so much better at the applications, using all that feedback. If you don’t need to be concerned about the user and how you’re using their data – you have to accept that the government accesses all your data and that’s the end of the story – then just get things done without having to worry. “China is beating everyone on applications and using existing technologies. But not that deeper tech. For pure tech, other countries still have an edge. China is putting a lot of money [towards developing] this, but you can’t change a whole culture that quickly. Western scientists will push to the end, no 50-percent chabuduo.”

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B

ut where there’s a will (and cash), there’s a way. As part of China’s 13th Five Year Plan, governments from the local to the national level are investing in technical research – for artificial intelligence (the foundation for any workable AR system), neural networks inspired by the structure of the brain, interactive film and other fields that could help mixed reality take off. SenseTime, with offices in Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Japan, has emerged as the world’s highest-valued AI company. With over USD1-billion in investment and huge contracts with the Chinese government, it’s working to process the firehose of data coming from the nation’s surveillance cameras, to recognize individual faces and connect them with relevant databases. Beyond facial recognition, they’re researching technology for image recognition (‘computer vision’) in hospitals and everyday settings, like self-driving cars. This, too, is AR. Our future cars don’t need to augment reality, Kobes explains, “but they need to understand it. And that’s what’s going on behind AR.” And nreal.ai, which sees “the latest computing platform – the smartphone – has almost reached its full potential, manifested by the declining sales figures and the slowdown of innovation,” according to Zhao. To capture the immense market opportunities of AR, they’ve built a team of “seasoned experts from Google, Microsoft, Yale University, Columbia University, Zhejiang University and Peking University, with deep expertise in software and hardware development.” So, with all this promise and investment, why are all the current AR applications so underwhelming? What’s standing in the way?

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When Money Talks, Robots Listen There are still “many hurdles in optics, software algorithms, design and hardware integration [that] need to be overcome,” Zhao admits. And the Director of Strategy and Planning at Futurewei, Huawei’s US outpost, points to “very serious network challenges.” In a 2015 interview, José Roberto Alvarez explained that “Tremendous bandwidth is needed to be able to capture reality and then superimpose virtual objects on top of that reality. “Tracking means that I need to analyze the image, perhaps, over the network, perform a computationally-intensive process, and then relay it back to this display. That is latency. That latency has to be on the order of much less than 100 milliseconds. Today, we are not approaching that. It’s one of our biggest challenges in the network.” So even if we could get the best cameras and displays to rest like a feather on the bridge of our nose, we’re still looking at a computing challenge. Happily for us, that’s where China is leading the way.

Tremendous bandwidth is needed to be able to capture reality and then superimpose virtual objects on top of that reality


T

encent Cloud currently holds the world record in four categories of computing speed, as measured by Sort Benchmark. In 2016, WeChat’s parent company smashed the previous year’s records, processing up to 60 terabytes per minute, or roughly 1,000 gigabytes a second. This was more than three times as fast as the 2015 record. Though no tests were announced for 2017 and the results for 2018 are still pending, we can expect the internet behemoth to stay on top. In celebrating the 2016 benchmark, the general manager for Tencent’s Data Platform Department vowed to “continue to improve the backend technology for our cloud service by optimizing architecture, software and hardware to help global enterprises solve complex business challenges by leveraging hyper-scale computing platforms.” China’s scientists have already announced the stronger, faster microprocessing chips needed to stay ahead, ready to power devices equipped for faster-than-ever 5G mobile service. Huawei researchers, along with others in China, are issuing more patents than ever

Faster than the Speed of Thought

for 5G-enabling technology, still just a collective 10 percent of the world’s total, but enough to start lobbying for international standards with Chinese characteristics. Within five years, 5G is projected to be fully mainstreamed, with CCS Insight predicting 1.3 billion people on these networks worldwide. Chinese users will make up more than half. The world of 2023 isn’t far away, but the changes in store are potentially more radical than any we’ve yet seen. Remember that five years ago, China had neither Ofo nor Mobike, and WeChat Wallet was only just introduced. If research continues at its current pace, by the mid-2020s the world will have achieved some of the crucial underlying technology to make AR living a reality. Most exciting is the combination of open-air gesture control and ultrahaptics. With the first, sensors (including tiny radar) will track the subtle motions of our hands, allowing us to swipe and pinch our way through mixed reality. The second will let us actually feel those virtual objects. With enough computing power, our devices can manipulate sound waves beyond the range of human hearing. Condense enough of those sound waves onto the same location, and we can feel it with our fingertips. No special gloves required. By 2025, China will have access to these technologies – and probably the massive computational power of quantum computing, thanks to the USD10billion National Laboratory for Quantum Information Sciences opening in 2020 in Hefei, Anhui province. Combine those breakthroughs with the advances from wide-reaching 13th and 14th five-year plans, along with the Made in China 2025 program that aims to shift Chinese tech onto domestic platforms from Huawei, Tencent and the like, and China stands ready to make possible all those futurist dreams. But is there anything that should keep us up at night?

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eyond the dangers of distraction and advertisement overload that come with on-your-face media – beautifully and horribly portrayed in Keiichi Matsuda’s Hyper-Reality – China faces its own unique possibilities. In the country’s recent tech boom, convenience and prosperity have flourished alongside the decay of privacy and anonymity. The facial recognition technology that alllows you to unlock your phone with a glance also allows the cameras on the street to track you anywhere in the city. One of the first pure AR wearables in China is produced domestically by LLVision for use by police at a train station in Zhengzhou, Henan province, and highway checkpoints in Beijing. With a glance, authorities can match a person’s face against a database of suspects, displaying a red warning if there’s a match. By 2020, China will also see a nationwide social credit system. Currently, the system is a variety of lists at the city, regional and national level, recording actions that are commendable or discouraged. Reporting by Foreign Policy, Business Insider and others indicate that citizens are added to the blacklists for violations like shirking debts, acting badly on a flight, smoking in non-smoking sections, jaywalking, driving badly, or “buying too many video games and posting fake news online.” Right now the consequences vary and are limited to inconveniences like throttled internet speed, or more serious restrictions regarding which trains they can ride, which jobs they can take and which schools their children can attend. “Once untrustworthy, always restricted” is the heart of the plan. In a future where the world you experience can change with a few lines of code, that principle could breed extreme consequences. In our augmented future, people with high social credit could simply live a better life – not just better schools and better jobs, but a world that literally looks and sounds better: full ac-

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Electronic Sheep for Robot Dreams

cess to landscape beautification, lifelike AR interactions and all the unbridled creativity that follows from a limitless virtual world. With a low score, access could be denied, throttled, left cartoonish and pixelated, or dimmed and gray. Fall far enough in your social credit and it’s easy to imagine a Black Mirror scenario where you’re persona non grata: instead of you, others would see a grey blob. Or worse, through their glasses your fellow citizens don’t see you at all and the device adjusts their equilibrium so they unconsciously

walk around you. When AR penetrates our reality, the process of removing undesirable info from the internet can be transferred into reality. We could be unpersoned with a flick of a switch. Of course, any vision of the future is bound to fall short. There are too many variables to be completely certain. But the course of recent history is clear: with these leaps in technology, massive adoption and unrestricted access, China’s technical wizards are at the cusp of shifting our reality in ways only our computers can imagine.



FOOD, DRINK

& EVENTS

Trade Fair Tastes

Four dining hot spots to check out over Canton Fair, p52

IN GUANGZHOU

Kitchen Confidential P51 48 | GZ | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM 48 | GZ | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

The Last Straw P54


When Sichuan-Style Fish Meets an Italian Classic By Ryan Gandolfo

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his month we have a new and undoubtedly bizarre pizza to share with you: pickled cabbage fish pizza. The inspiration behind the unique pie?

Sichuan’s renowned spicy, sour fish dish. For those not in the know, spicy, sour fish is a deliciously tangy and zesty bowl of soup that comes composed of Sichuan peppercorns, celery, pickled cabbage and slices of white fish flesh (the fish used in the dish may vary from shop to shop, but it’s usually a species of carp). While we are unabashed fans of the famed Sichuan dish, we have to admit we were skeptical about the pizza version. We ordered pickled cabbage fish pizza from Pizza Bear, also known as Supreme Pizza (very different names, we know), for the discounted price of RMB56 (originally RMB99, but it turns out waimai apps offer some pretty good deals). The pizza arrived with a plethora of ingredients set atop its cheesy surface: fried fish, corn, onions and peppers. Chefs at Pizza Bear decided to hide the pizza’s most… err… unique ingredient – pickled cabbage – beneath the hood (read: cheese). We admittedly went into the dining experience with pretty low expectations, but were pleasantly surprised to find that the Dr. Pizzensteins working at Pizza Bear simply took inspiration from Sichuan’s spicy, sour fish, and had not tried to replicate the dish in pizza form. The pizza offered an invigorating kick with its baked-in pickled cabbage, and the crust was crunchy and golden brown – just

like we like it. Unfortunately, the fish portion of the pie was a huge letdown. Mistaken for pork by some in our office, while others couldn’t fathom another bite due to its overwhelming fishy flavor, the seafood had been poorly distributed across the surface of the pizza. (Either that or some slices were sprinkled with genuine pork, who knows). While it was fun(ish) to try, we reckon we won’t be craving a bite of Pizza Bear’s pickled cabbage fish pizza anytime soon. In the future, if the desire for both a cheesy disc and spicy marine creature hits us at the same time, we’ll opt to order a traditional spicy sour fish bowl and a pepperoni pizza – separately. Order this bizarre pizza on Ele.me by searching 至尊 比萨 (zhizun bisa)

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WE TRY IT

WHAT THE FISH!?

When you hear the words ‘China’ and ‘pizza’ in the same breath, the thought doesn’t usually end with high praise. We can attribute this to the country’s oft-whacky renditions of the classic Italian dish. In China, American pizza chains, such as Papa Johns and Pizza Hut, have created a variety of new pizza recipes catering to the local palate. With toppings ranging from corn and durian to mayonnaise and ketchup, it’s easy to understand why many laowai shun Chinese-style ‘za.


GRAPE VINE THE SCANDALOUS SCOOP

We’re digging:

OLDIE BUT GOODIE

BB Bao

Brasston’s relocation from Haizhu to Zhujiang New Town; a new craft beer hangout in Liwan District, courtesy of brewmaster David Strand (stay tuned); the official arrival of Bandidos Mexican Cantina (page 58); Guangzhou’s first ‘smart’ restaurant (page 57); and The Happy Monk, Social&Co and Revolucion making the move away from single-use straws (page 54).

We’re done with:

the sudden closure of About Bagel, our favorite shop for round, dense and chewy bread in Yuexiu District; the continued use of plastic straws at many of Guangzhou’s most popular bars and restaurants (c’mon guys, get with the program); Not Club (page 59); and the predictable hordes of Canton Fair attendees that will soon make getting a taxi a living nightmare.

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One of our favorite burger joints in Guangzhou, BB Bao dishes out delicious, thick and juicy burgers at prices that are comparable to McDonald’s. The pan-fried beef burger (RMB28) is BB Bao’s generic burger offering, and comes topped with lettuce, onions, tomatoes and a slice of cheese – all tucked into a homemade, sesame-topped bun. Those hankering for a twist on the standard burger would be wise to order the kimchi minced pork burger (RMB24). Succulent minced pork is crafted into an inch-thick patty and then topped with an invigorating serving of pickled Korean cabbage, before being wedged (with care) into one of BB Bao’s homemade buns. Lettuce

and tomatoes also make an appearance on this pork burger, which, in our so humble opinion, is a strong contender for the title of ‘best meal in a bun’ in Guangzhou. If your hunger is as big as your head, we suggest ordering the jumbo burger (RMB88). Cut into six slices, this massive burger boasts all the same toppings as BB Bao’s pan-fried beef burger and can easily feed three people. Price: RMB24-88 Nearest Metro: Taojin (Exit A), 10 minutes

6-8 Dongsi Jie, Jianshe Er Malu, Yuexiu District 越秀区 建设二马路东四街6-8号首层 (2987 5146)


E D I T O R . P R D @ U R B A N A T O M Y. C O M

WHAT’S ON WAIMAI

KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

Salmon Please, Hold the Fish Rodrigo González is, for lack of a better term, the man. Having cooked in kitchens in Guangzhou, Shanghai and now Shenzhen, González has had his fair share of wild F&B experiences. Below, he shares his thoughts…

On outrageous drink orders…

Some people like to order whiskey on the rocks with no ice. One time I saw a customer mixing sugar bags into white wine.

On dumb food requests…

“I want my steak super well done, but also super juicy… Please, I want the salmon but I don’t want it to taste like fish.”

Pizza vs. pasta… I’m more of a pizza guy, it’s a dish that you can eat alone or with friends. I think good food brings people together and pizza is one of those dishes. Pizza is perfect, simple but perfect.

Muine Vietnamese Cuisine Delicate beef pho, refreshing mango rice paper rolls and flavorful bun bo: time-tested Vietnamese culinary delights that are some of our favorite take-out options in the Pearl River Delta. With eateries in both Guangzhou and Shenzhen, Muine Vietnamese Cuisine expertly prepares an array of Southeast Asian classics – from tom yum soup and Vietnamese curries to Saigon shrimp on sugarcane and deboned chicken feet salad. Prices vary by location, but an average meal will run you around RMB90. Muine has Guangzhou’s CBD dwellers covered with two branches, while Shenzheners can choose from any of Muine’s six locations spread across Futian and Nanshan.

Price: RMB90 Good for: signature Vietnamese dishes Search for: 美奈小馆 (meinai xiaoguan) Available on: Meituan, Baidu, Ele.me

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E AT & DR INK | P R OMO T ION

TRADE FAIR TASTES Four Dining Hot Spots to Check Out Over Canton Fair By Rakini Bergundy

It’s back! Running from October 15 till November 4, the Canton Fair is one of Asia’s largest trade shows, bringing to town a plethora of businessfolk looking to source everything from office supplies to patio furniture and everything in between. If you are visiting Guangzhou for this autumn’s fair – or live here and want to check out some quality eats – we have four must-try restaurants for your consideration!

Qing Man Party Restaurant One of Guangzhou’s most popular party restaurants, Qing Man Party Restaurant delivers authentic and delectable Thai fare coupled with a cheerful atmosphere. In addition, the eatery offers diners some of the best river views in the city. During the Canton Fair, the much-loved spot is offering a delightful set dinner for the bargain price of RMB158 (normally RMB200). The set meal includes grilled short rib, avocado bacon salad, a traditional soup and a refreshing beverage made from grapefruit and cranberry or Thai green coconut. 2/F, B Zone, Party Pier, 118 Modiesha Dajie, Xingang Dong Lu, Haizhu District 海珠区新港东路磨碟沙大街118号琶醍B区二楼 (8386 6998)

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P R OMO T ION | E AT & DR INK

Antidote Restaurant and Bar Tucked away among residential buildings in the Tianhe North neighborhood, Antidote Restaurant and Bar is one of our favorite dining options in the laidback area. The restaurant lures diners in with its artsy aura and beautifully presented Western fare. Adorned with conceptual, grandstanding paintings created by sought-after artists, the intimate, soft-lit dining area has a pleasant, welcoming ambience also reflected in the wait staff. Artworks, which are swapped out every two or three months, are also for sale. 39 Qiaoyi Yi Jie, Tianhe Bei Lu, Tianhe District 天河区天 河北路侨怡一街39号 (186 2071 9898)

Slow Life Kitchen Elite Wholesome edibles crafted with organic ingredients have gained traction in Guangzhou over the past couple years, with diners in the city taking an increasingly health-conscious approach to dining. Slow Life Kitchen Elite popped up this past summer to cater to this growing market. The restaurant aims to introduce patrons to the ‘rarity’ of authentic Western fare through a selection of well-crafted, eye-pleasing dishes and a delectable array of tapas. Highlights from the tapas menu include the highly-recommended Spanish-style garlic shrimp (RMB75), a full-flavored dish with thumb-sized crustaceans steeped in a sour and spicy soup, as well as the roasted asparagus and scallops with truffle cream sauce (RMB90), which mashes up flavors to deliver a juicy yet delicate mouthful of shellfish. During the Canton Fair, dine at Slow Life Kitchen Elite and get 10 percent off your bill by showing your exhibitor’s pass. Shop 205, 2/F, Kaihua International Center, 5 Xiancun Lu, Tianhe District 天河区冼村路5号凯华国际中心二楼205铺 (2818 7263)

Zapata’s Zapata's has something for everyone, whether it is a quiet drink or an outrageous party. The ground floor features a huge bar top where you’re encouraged to dance the night away as DJs, the Money Maker Party Band and Tequila Girls perform the biggest hits from the last four decades. Located in Party Pier, just a stone's throw away from the Canton Fair complex, the hot venue also comes with an outstanding riverside terrace, which is perfect for an evening of drunken merrymaking. Show your exhibitor’s pass and get a 15 percent discount during the Canton Fair. Shop A21, Party Pier, Yuejiang Xi Lu, Haizhu District 海珠 区阅江西路珠江啤酒厂琶醍文化区A21 (8977 9596)

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E AT & DR INK | F E AT UR E

THE LAST STRAW Restaurants in Guangzhou and Shenzhen Go Green By Bryan Grogan

If you find yourself refusing the single-use plastic straw offered to you in 7/11 and Family Mart every time you go in to buy a can of coke, then you are not alone.

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ecently, plastic waste has become one of the hottest issues that restaurants and bars face in China, with the careful use of singleuse plastic straws right at the center of the issue. Simply getting bums in the seats continues to be a constant struggle for F&B outlets. However, the impact that items such as plastic takeout containers and single-use straws have on the environment has become a prevailing worry in recent months. According to a National Geographic article published in June, over one million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals are killed each year by the plastic materials that find their way into our oceans. Plastic straws are one of the main culprits, as their small size makes them more difficult to recycle. The rise of online takeout

companies such as Meituan and Ele.me have resulted in more plastic consumption, as takeout deliveries generally require plastic packaging and arrive in a plastic bag. At the start of this year, the Chinese government announced a ban on the import of plastic waste from around the world in a move that is meant to limit the amount of harmful plastic that is coming into the country. And as awareness of the plastic problem grows, restaurants have begun to take a first, fundamental step by introducing more environmentallyfriendly straws – a small, but important move in the right direction. Australian Kent Highet is a Guangzhou resident who has been making the rounds of the local F&B scene, lobbying for increased awareness of the harmfulness of single-use plas-


F E AT UR E | E AT & DR INK

tic. An ardent scuba diver, Highet is concerned and befuddled by folk’s unwillingness to change when it comes to the plastic that is polluting our oceans. “It's a no brainer, why don't people recycle more and use [reusable] shopping bags? I just don't get it; we can all help by doing the right thing,” says Highet. “Everybody I talk to agrees about one-use plastic but they don't all take action.” Despite his cynicism regarding people’s lack of action, Highet’s lobbying is beginning to work. Last month, popular Guangzhou-based eatery Social&Co introduced biodegradable paper straws as an ecofriendly alternative to single-use straws. Across the Pearl River, at Party Pier, Revolucion Cocktail Bar has introduced reusable bamboo straws. Revolucion’s bamboo straws

are a real winner, being both environmentally friendly and gorgeously lightweight. When we visited on a quiet Tuesday evening last month, we were thrilled to be helping our planet’s oceans all whilst looking stylish in the process. Over at The Happy Monk, a popular chain of restaurants in Guangzhou, management made the switch from plastic to paper products over the summer. “For me, one of the main things is that we are instilling a sense of environmental importance within the team we employ,” says Jeremy Sargent, proprietor of The Happy Monk restaurant chain. “We have over 200 staff and a lot of them are young. They wrote all about plastic waste in our internal staff publication. It is starting conversations, it is raising awareness, both with our staff and our customers. “Some customers have already complained, asking why we aren’t using plastic straws anymore, so there is a conversation there.” In addition to biodegradable straws, The Happy Monk has also introduced biodegradable takeaway packaging in an attempt to totally reduce their single-use plastic consumption. In Shenzhen, some establishments are taking a similar tack when it comes to their impact on the planet. Jolly Roger Bar, locat-

ed in Nanshan District, has introduced reusable metal straws in many of their cocktails. Taylor Chen, manager at the bar, tells us that his team has realized the impact that plastic can have on the environment and have subsequently decided to limit their use of plastic straws. Back in Guangzhou, Social&Co’s owner, New Zealand native Aaron McKenzie, told us that he decided to make the switch to reusable straws after seeing just how much waste is created when using plastic straws. “We go through over 2,000 straws per month for our cocktails, soft drinks and other drinks, so the impact that we have alone seems quite high when you see how many straws are in the bin at the end of a busy night,” says McKenzie. Speaking about the effect that small changes like this can have on the F&B industry, Aaron told us: “I guess the impact of videos circulating on social media, which then started people talking, instigated the thought process of a move away from plastic to something a little more environmentally friendly.” One of the major issues that outlets such as Aaron’s face is finding a reliable and cheap retailer of environmentallyfriendly products. “When we bought biodegradable bags from an adver-

tised supplier they all fell apart, and when we questioned them, they told us that even if a supplier in China tells you they have this type of product, it doesn't always mean that they are telling the truth,” said McKenzie. “That was a shock. So he had to make us all new bags, which weren't biodegradable.” According to McKenzie, for his business, straws are just one part of the overall impact that the F&B industry in China has on the environment. “When I opened my eyes more to daily eating habits, I saw there is much more going on than just straws.” With that being said, Social&Co is also looking to change its approach to takeaway packaging, taking steps to introduce more reusable and environmentally-friendly packaging as demand for these changes increases. “After about two months of researching and looking at all options, we decided to go for paper straws starting from mid September. But also we will look at more reusable and environmentally-friendly takeaway packaging as we see an increase in this demand as well,” said McKenzie. “That should be by October once we track down the suppliers who are actually creating these recycled products.”

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J&V VICTUALS INDIAN CUISINE Spice Up Your Life By Lena Gidwani

The Place Indian food aficionados now have a reason to brave Guangzhou’s dodgy taxis and visit Liede: J&V Victuals Indian Cuisine. Once a dingy late-night dive, the now homely, unpretentious space isn’t cluttered by too much furniture or unnecessary frills. Rather, it is brought to life by ruby-red walls, mood lighting and a welcoming, dome-shaped ingress to the main dining area and bar.

The Food

Serving up rich Mughlai gastronomy, the kitchen’s three North Indian chefs are sticklers for tradition. They don’t claim to reinvent, refine or modernize; after all, if it ain’t broke, why fix it? Like true Indianstyle menus, vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are separated. Chicken lovers, eat your heart out with the kebab platter (RMB120), featuring five varie56 | GZ | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

ties of chicken in bright colors and charred flavors. The meat is moist and pulls apart effortlessly, a worthy nod to their in-house tandoor oven. If it’s seafood you hanker for, try the tandoori prawns (RMB70/six pieces) and the fish Amritsari tikka (RMB70/six pieces); both exude a smoky flavor that lingers on the palate. Our vegetarian favorite is the samosa chaat (RMB50), a popular crispy-crunchyspicy-tangy classic street snack. Our only peeve was the addition of the ginger slivers; request to leave it off and whilst you’re at it, ask for the onions and green chili slices to be cut a tad bit finer. For some golden, crunchy goodness, sink into the dahi ke sholay (RMB50). We’re told that even those who have lost their teeth still enjoy these fried bread rolls stuffed with hung yogurt and spices, especially when dipped into some homemade green chutney. Now, time to splash out on the curries. The ultimate comfort food is, of course, the formidable butter chicken, and at RMB80, J&V’s version is an ask. The sauce doesn’t disappoint, with a mildly spiced and slightly sweet favor that mingles with generous swirls of melted butter. We’ve been told that spice levels can be cranked up, so do ask if your palate craves it. Pair it with crispy garlic naan (RMB30), and you could very well call it a day. But don’t, for the palak paneer (RMB75) is quite frankly a stroke of culinary genius, especially when paired with some laccha

paratha (RMB30). The mutton rogan josh (RMB90) came with fatty chunks and could have done with less of it. Fancy a rice dish? Our portion of chicken dum biryani (RMB70) was aromatic and fluffy, with rich flavors bursting in our mouths. There are two pages of classic alcoholic pours too, but you’ll be right if you choose the mango lassi (RMB40), a thick, delicious smoothie concocted to blissfully extinguish any fires in your mouth.

The Vibe

Uncomplicated and authentic, a meal at J&V warrants the grabbing of hungry mates and Sunday casuals, for a menu this vast deserves a few visits and some dosh to get through it all. Service is not particularly speedy, as food is cooked to order and fresh. That being said, much can be achieved if you make chummy with their obliging and gregarious manager, Das. Does Das work fast? Oh yes, he does, and you will get your curry in a hurry. The verdict? Wobble bobble. And all is well. Price: RMB180 Who’s going: hot stuff Good for: moist meats cooked in a proper tandoor oven, classic favorites Nearest metro: Liede, Exit D, 5 minutes’ walk Open daily, 11am to midnight (last order 11.30pm); No. G17, Xingsheng Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District 天河区兴盛路10号 (3889 4035)


NE W R E S TAUR A N T | E AT & DR INK

BAOTOP 'SMART' DIM SUM SHOP Traditional Eats Meet Modern Tech By Ryan Gandolfo

The Place When we stepped inside Baotop for the first time, it was a bit overwhelming. Despite the shop’s small size (no more than 23 square meters, excluding the kitchen), there’s a lot going on. To make your visit easier, we’ll give you the rundown on how this new ‘smart restaurant’ works. First, make your way to the nearest QR code and scan it. This will set off a chain reaction of permission requests and a link to download their partner app, Koubei, which

allows you to select items off the menu. Once you’ve decided what you'd like to order, you can pay the bill using Alipay. Don’t use Alipay? An attendant at the shop informed us that customers can also order and pay at the take-out window (not so ‘smart’ after all). After placing your order, you will receive an electronic receipt that tells you which cubby your food will be deposited in.

The Food

What good is a ‘smart’ baozi shop if they don’t have competent chefs? We put them to the test, ordering an assortment of steamed delights ranging from tasty shrimp dumplings to brown sugar mantou. “It’s like a hamburger,” the attendant relayed to us as we ordered the meat baozi (RMB1.5 per piece). Freshly made and steamed, the minced pork is housed nicely inside a cloudlike bun. Baotop really piqued our interest with their ‘emperor’ shrimp shumai dumplings, which boasted a delicious shrimp flavor inside a thin layer of dumpling skin wrapped around the crustacean like a vacuum-sealed blanket (RMB10 per five pieces). The delightful morsels brought back simpler times, rekindling fond memories of eating pigs-in-a-blanket at childhood parties.

From there, the quality dropped off a bit. Baotop’s meatballs (RMB3.5 per piece) will leave you questioning where the meat came from. The squishiness was unpleasant and lingered far too long. The brown sugar mantou (RMB2 per piece) fared no better, with a serious lack of flavor. After the meatballs and depressing mantou, we took our doujiang to go. Although nothing about this cup of doujiang stood out, it did complement Baotop’s selection of small treats and left us feeling full.

The Vibe

For Guangzhou's first smart restaurant, Baotop was a fun experience. It's certainly not a place to linger around, but provides decent food fresher than the street-side, dim sum-wheeling ayi's down the block. Price: RMB5-30 Who’s going: curious folk, young couples, the tech savvy Good for: morning dim sum, fresh and convenient snacks Nearest metro: China Normal University (Exit B), 15 minutes

Open daily, 6.30am-8.30pm 561 Tianhe Bei lu (Underneath Park-n-Shop) 天河北路561号太平洋保险大 厦101铺 百佳超市楼下 (180 2729 3004)

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BANDIDOS MEXICAN CANTINA Viva la Mexico! By Matthew Bossons

The Place Compared to our friends down in Shenzhen, Guangzhou has suffered from a lack of authentic Mexican eats. That is slowly starting to change, with more restaurants specializing in tacos, nachos and ceviche beginning to pop up. The latest edition to Guangzhou’s growing burrito brotherhood: Bandidos Mexican Cantina. Located in the space formerly occupied by The Brew Bistro & Bar in Zhujiang New Town, the interior layout of Bandidos is virtually unrecognizable from its predecessor. Colorful Day of the Dead-inspired murals reinforce Bandidos’ Mexican theme, while newly installed booths offer an air of privacy that just wasn’t present at The Brew.

The Food

Currently in a ‘soft opening’ phase, Bandidos is only offering a nine-item tasting menu for the time being. Despite the small size of the current food list, big flavors await curious patrons as proprietor Rob Turnbull tells us that additional dishes (including burritos, enchiladas and soups) – as well as brunch and lunch menus – will be rolled out in the near future. 58 | GZ | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

The man behind the menu, Arturo Villegas Rosas, is originally from Mexico City, but has spent time living all over Mexico. Described to us by Turnbull as a man who “takes food seriously,” Arturo has been preparing traditional Mexican cuisine for 16 years – and his expertise is evident in Bandidos’ food. We started our gastronomic gallivant through the menu with the aguachile (RMB48), one of the Arturo’s signature dishes: a hearty portion of fresh shrimp mixed with purple onions and cabbage, tomatoes and cucumber, all soaked in piquant lime juice. Flavorful and texture-rich, this refreshing dish is served with a bowl of corn tortilla chips for scooping. We’re willing to bet the aguachile will be a popular snack on Guangzhou’s hotter, more humid days. Another favorite was the taquitos pollo picante (RMB48), spicy Mexican-style chicken entombed in a deep-fried corn tortilla and served with a side of sour cream. Chopped into crispy, bite-size morsels, Bandidos’ taquitos are an easy-to-share, pre-meal snack. And of course, no trip to a Mexican cantina is complete without tacos! We sampled two of the three taco varieties currently available: tacos de carne asada and tacos de pastor (both RMB68 for three tacos). The tacos de carne asada come on a double corn tortilla, stuffed with roasted beef with a touch of cumin, corn and coriander, while the tacos de pastor boast Mexican-style roasted pork with pineapple pico de gallo. We found the portion sizes for both orders to be quite fair, particularly when compared with

some of Guangzhou’s other taco purveyors (looking at you, Mi Casa). While we didn’t sample Bandidos’ third taco option, vegetarians will be happy to know that it is meat-free, filled with peppers, eggplant and pumpkin (tacos vegetarian, RMB68). We capped our meal off with a giant pile of Arturo’s nachos, nachos with cochinita (RMB88). Different from standard pub nachos, this rendition of the classic chip-based dish is made with Yucatan-style pork and vinegar-cured onions.

The Vibe

The vibe here is a double whammy: sociable and somehow private all at the same time. Fun and lively on our visit, Bandidos Mexican Cantina succeeds in bring the festive atmosphere so commonly associated with Mexican celebrations to Guangzhou. But, if you aren’t looking to sip a margarita and mingle with our city’s taco lovers, rest assured you can find privacy in the restaurant’s booths. Price: RMB150 Who’s going: virtually everyone (on our visit anyway) Good for: authentic Mexican eats, margaritas, feeling like you’re not in China Nearest metro: Zhujiang New Town (Exit B2), 10 minutes

Open daily, 11am to 1-2am (reduced hours during soft opening, call restaurant for more info); 2 Huaxun Jie, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District 天河区珠江新城华讯 街2号 (137 1100 7745)


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NOT CLUB

To Club or Not to Club? By Lena Gidwani

The Place We are convinced that no one actually likes nightclubs. They reek of day-old sweat and hair gel, and unless you’re on mood-altering substances designed to make the ordeal seem almost bearable, we just can’t fathom why anyone would want to give their delicate eardrums a solid thrashing. Still, we figured we should give it a shot. After all, everyone sometimes needs a reason not to have a conversation. Not Club, at the crossroads of Xiancun Lu and Xingsheng Lu, takes you on a journey… to the second floor. There’s turnstiles and security checks as you enter the space. There’s an elevator. Plenty of perky neon lights. And as you step out, a bronze statue of a deity sits there, for blessings of course. Follow the sound of thumping tunes, past a bar and low seats, to enter the main club space. As LED lights (ACME, no less) and high ceilings blind you, squint a bit and you should be able to spot almost everyone trying too hard on their phones, visibly attempting to out-cool each other by wearing expressions of those waking up to their first day in a jail cell. Look closer and you may be able to spot some lurkers on the VIP periphery – the older chaps in suits, drinking expensive champagne with young birds. Paid European models feature too; glance around for them in tight dresses standing around in factions, pretending to have a

great time. It’s riveting stuff. But wait, there’s more.

The Drinks

Yes, more. At prices more than bars at good five-star hotels, to be able to afford a drink you must either be: a) a Liede homeowner; b) so drunk that you don’t check the menu first, or; c) banned from other clubs. Fancy a G&T? At RMB110, it’s a steal. Bloody Mary’s are RMB130, as is their signature cocktail ‘Yes I’m Not.’ We’d love to tell you what it’s made of, but the servers were sorry (not sorry) and couldn’t tell us. Bottles? Well, as long as you’re willing to pay up, it’s all up for grabs. Sadly, we couldn’t get our hands on a menu to tell just how much. Maybe the fact that drinks are so overpriced means that we should be impressed to be at Not, as if that somehow validates us as proper clubbers. We’re still undecided.

club, lounge, KTV rooms and private digs), Not aims to be exclusive and expensive, and their target audience seems to enjoy it. Is it the worst party space in Zhujiang New Town? Probably not. But do note that it is not for the faint-hearted (literally) or for those seeking a relaxing, intimate evening, as their electronic house music calls for some intense fist pumping and head-bobbing. Instead, Not provides consistency i.e. it will pretty much be the same every night you go. If that isn’t a compliment, then we do not know what is. Price: RMB250 (two drinks) Who’s going: we’re still not sure, but they have money Good for: expensive drinks, blessings Nearest metro: Liede (Exit D), 5 minutes

Open daily, 8.30pm till the music stops; 6 Xingsheng Lu (next to Starbucks and Gail’s), Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District 天河区兴盛路6号 (8188 8185)

The Vibe

We’re not going to deny that Not is immensely chic. Their ruby red spiral staircase, mandalalike metallic decor, mammoth state-of-the-art LED screens and immensely well-designed DJ booth with Bose acoustics that can rival any world club is commendable. At 3,000 square meters spread over three floors (the main WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | OCTOBER 2018 | GZ | 59


OZMA Jazz

Macondo Math Rock

HEAR Vienna Boys’ Choir

Chorus

With a history spanning five centuries, the celebrated Vienna Boys’ Choir are, without a doubt, one of the world’s best and share a reputation comparable to that of the Vienna Philharmonic. Worldclass composers and conductors such as Mozart, Haydn, Schubert and Bruckner were once members of the choir, which is divided into four touring groups named after these four musical masters. Though based in Austria, the choir is comprised of talented young vocalists from all over the world. Sat Oct 27, 8pm; RMB180-680. Xinghai Concert Hall, Xinghai Concert Hall, 33 Qingbo Lu, Ersha Island, Yuexiu District 越秀区二沙岛晴波路 33号星海音乐厅 (8735 8735, ticketeasy.cn)

Jazz ensemble OZMA is set apart by their unique blend of jazz, electro-trance and ‘greasy’ rock. Their music exhibits energy, openness and freedom through groovy compositions and formidable teamwork. The French quintet have released a total of six albums and have performed over 300 times worldwide since winning the prestigious International Jazz Competition in Paris in 2006. Fri Oct 19, 8pm; RMB100 early bird, RMB180 presale, RMB260 at the door. Zhile Art Space, 1/F, Zhujiang Orchestra, Starlight Walk, Xin'gang Zhong Lu, Haizhu District 海珠区新港中路珠影星光城珠江交响乐团一楼知乐艺术空间 (showstart. com)

win! We have two tickets to this show to give away! Message our official WeChat account (ThatsGuangzhou) before October 16 with the subject ‘OZMA’ and why you should win. Please include your full name and contact number.

Beijing-based Macondo is a mathcore slash instrumental rock group that captivates audiences by veering wildly from haunting dreamscapes to calculated fury. Thrilling drum beats, complex guitar riffs, aggressive bass and transcendent synth characterize their hard-hitting music, as demonstrated in their self-titled album. Fri Oct 12, 9pm; RMB60 presale, RMB80 at the door. T:union, 361-365 Guangzhou Dadao Zhong, Yuexiu District 越秀区广州大道中361-365号 东方花苑1层凸空间 (showstart.com)

Modern Maori Quartet

Classical Music

AVA Trio Jazz Dé Dé Mouse

Indietronica

Dé Dé Mouse bases his music on Eurobeat, house and American pop music from the 1980s and ’90s, while adding the essence of soul music and R&B to create a sound often dubbed post-EDM. The Japanese musician is famous for keeping his live performances interesting: sometimes he busts out a double drum or piano solo, or drops a thumpin’ dance music remix. Witness the magic yourself at Mao Livehouse this month. Sat Oct 13, 8.30pm; RMB120 presale, RMB150 at the door. Mao Livehouse, 1/F, Zhongzhou Trading Center, Huizhan Nan Wu Lu, Haizhu District 海珠区会展南五路中州交易中心1楼 (showstart.com)

Drawn together by their collective love of jazz music, AVA Trio was formed in in 2015. Last year, the trio released their debut album, Music from an Imaginary Land, to much fanfare. Although they owe more to jazz than other influences, the trio strives to incorporate unique instruments and musical elements into their songs. Thu Oct 11, 8pm; RMB180 presale, RMB260 at the door. Zhile Art Space, 1/F, Zhujiang Orchestra, Starlight Walk, Xin'gang Zhong Lu, Haizhu District 海珠区新 港中路珠影星光城珠江交响乐团一楼知乐艺术空间 (showstart.com)

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win!

We have two tickets to this show to give away! Message our official WeChat account (ThatsGuangzhou) before October 9 with the subject ‘AVA’ and why you should win. Please include your full name and contact number.

The Modern Maori Quartet presents classic Maori art and waiata music made using modern techniques. The group proudly displays the great Maori band traditions that originated in their homeland of New Zealand in the 1950s and ’60s. Often referred to as the ‘modernday Rat Pack,’ their show is composed of elegant harmonies, remarkable stage presentation and the transboundary humor of the four Maori gentlemen. Fri Oct 19, 8pm; RMB80-280. Guangdong Performing Arts Center Theater, 1229 Guangzhou Dadao Zhong, Tianhe District 天河区广州大 道中1229号广东演艺中心剧院 (damai. cn)


Rudolf Buchbinder

Classical Piano

One of the world’s top classical pianist today, Rudolf Buchbinder has enjoyed an international repute throughout his five-decade career. The Golden Hall of Musikverein in Vienna, Carnegie Hall in New York and The Berliner Philharmonie have all seen Buchbinder’s celebrated performances, where the Austrian musician collaborated with worldrenowned orchestras. His interpretation of Beethoven is widely recognized in the classical music domain, and he will be performing work from the renowned composer at Xinghai Concert Hall this month. Sun Oct 21, 8pm; RMB80-880. Xinghai Concert Hall, 33 Qingbo Lu, Ersha Island, Yuexiu District 越秀区 二沙岛晴波路33号星海音乐厅 (8735 8735, ticket-easy.cn)

Wang Feng Rock/Folk

FortePiano Trio Classical Music

Graffiti Classics are a highly entertaining British string quartet that break the mold in their approach to classical music, aiming to make the genre comical and exhilarating. The group’s performances fuse classical tunes, gypsy-folk romp, opera, stand-up comedy and dance, and never fail to get the audience laughing, clapping and singing along! Fri Oct 19, 7.30pm; RMB100-280. Xingfan Theater, 298 Dashadi Dong, Huangpu District 黄浦区大沙地东298 号星帆剧院 (showstart.com)

A flutist, cellist and pianist make up FortePiano Trio. Hailing from Italy, the threesome actively explores the range of their instruments by tackling extended compositions, adding their own unique twist to classic arrangements. Having dedicated themselves to music from a young age, the trio has studied intensely at musical institutions devoted to theory and skill refinement. Don’t miss their performance this month at Guangzhou Opera House. Sun Oct 28, 3pm; RMB180. Guangzhou Opera House, 1 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Tianhe District 天河区珠江西路1号广州大剧院 (3839 2888, gzdjy.org)

Los Crasher Glam Rock

win!

We have a pair of tickets to this show to give away! Message our official WeChat account (ThatsGuangzhou) before October 26 with the subject ‘FortePiano’ and why you should win. Please include your full name and contact number.

The Samans Industrial

Rock

One of the most sought-after rock stars in the Middle Kingdom today, Wang Feng is slated to perform in Guangzhou at the beginning of November. With hit singles such as ‘Flying Higher,’ ‘Brave Heart,’ ‘Beijing, Beijing’ and ‘Existence,’ Wang cemented himself at the top of the musical pyramid in the Chinese mainland. As a classical music major attending one of the best music academies in Beijing, Wang encountered (and fell in love with) rock ‘n’ roll in the early 1990s. Since then, the spirit of rock has carried his music for more than 20 years. Sat Nov 3, 7pm; RMB380-1,380. Guangzhou International Sports Arena, 2666 Kaichuang Dadao, Huangpu District 黄埔区开创大道 2666号广州国际体育演艺中心 (damai. cn)

Graffiti Classics

With members hailing from Inner Mongolia and Northeast China, The Samans, meaning ‘shaman’ in English, have long cast a spell on their audiences. Recognized as one of the best in the Chinese industrial rock sphere, the quintet has also been performing folk metal onstage since their formation in 2007. See The Samans live in Guangzhou this month at SD Livehouse. Sun Oct 7, 8.30pm; RMB120 presale, RMB150 at the door. SD Livehouse, Building No. 7, Huacheng Wangshi Creative Area, 132 Gongye Dadao Bei, Haizhu District 海珠区工业大道北 132号花城往事创意园7栋 (showstart. com)

Crystal Lake Metalcore

According to lead singer Ryo Kinoshita, Crystal Lake’s music focuses on how to combat life’s most difficult times, as well as the agony and conflict that come with such experiences. The quintet, formed in 2002, is one of the few remaining groups playing metalcore in Japan, although the band has seen members come and go over the years. This month, Crystal Lake will commence their first tour in the Chinese mainland. Be sure to catch them at Mao Livehouse on Halloween! Wed Oct 31, 8pm; RMB220 presale, RMB300 at the door, RMB480 VIP. Mao Livehouse, 1/F, Zhongzhou Trading Center, Huizhan Nan Wu Lu, Haizhu District 海珠区会展南五路中州 交易中心1楼 (showstart.com)

Chinese hard rockers Los Crasher are set to perform tunes from their latest album, ‘Coz I’m Like No Other, in Guangzhou this month as part of their China tour. Heavy-rhymed songs like ‘Solo Ride till I Die,’ ‘Evil Shot’ and ‘Trash Crash Rock N’ Roll’ will have you headbanging till your neck hurts this month at SD Livehouse. Sat Oct 6, 8.30pm; RMB80 presale, RMB100 at the door. SD Livehouse, Building No. 7, Huacheng Wangshi Creative Area, 132 Gongye Dadao Bei, Haizhu District 海珠区工业大道北 132号花城往事创意园7栋 (showstart. com)

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The Ventriloquist Convention Ventriloquism

Riverdance II Dance

SEE 13 Tongues by Cloud Gate 2 Modern Dance

Cloud Gate 2 is an independent branch of Taiwan’s iconic modern dance theater – Cloud Gate. The New York Times said of Cloud Gate 2’s debut show in NYC in 2012, “The performers demonstrate how they can make the inside of a dance phrase exciting… Cloud Gate 2 has those virtues, it’s only right that they should be shared with the rest of the world.” With such praise, the young dance troupe have strived for the utmost excellence in their later productions, including 13 Tongues, a ‘messy’ stage production with background music that mixes folk songs with electronic music. Fri-Sat Oct 12-13, 7.30pm; RMB80680. Guangzhou Opera House, 1 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Tianhe District 天河区 珠江西路1号广州大剧院 (3839 2888, gzdjy.org)

Inspired by the annual convention in Kentucky where ventriloquists from around the world gather, The Ventriloquist Convention is performed by a total of nine ventriloquists and puppeteers who are able to create 27 unique voices. Designed by French artist Gisèle Vienne, the show takes audiences to the craziest corners of ventriloquism, where the dummies are integrated into daily life. Fri-Sat Oct 12-13, 7.30pm; RMB80-280. Guangzhou Opera House, 1 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Tianhe District 天河区珠江西路1号广州大剧院 (3839 2888, gzdjy.org)

win!

We have a pair of tickets to this show to give away! Message our official WeChat account (ThatsGuangzhou) before October 10 with the subject ‘Ventriloquist’ and why you should win. Please include your full name and contact number.

Mr. R – Outsider Modern Dance

A theatrical show of traditional Irish dance and music, the renowned Riverdance has been a global sensation for more than two decades. Winning a Grammy and selling more than 10 million copies, Riverdance has attracted celebrities like Madonna, Lady Gaga and the Beckhams, as well as 114 heads of state. Its newly unveiled edition, Riverdance II, will grace the Guangdong Performing Arts Center this month. Buy your tickets now to see the “face of Irish dancing” while they’re still available. Thu-Sun Oct 25-28, 3pm/8pm; RMB180-1,280. Guangdong Performing Arts Center Theater, 1229 Guangzhou Dadao Zhong, Tianhe District 天河区广州大道中1229号广东 演艺中心剧院 (damai.cn)

Long March Project: Building Code Violations III – Special Economic Zone Exhibition

win! We have a pair of tickets to this show to give away! Message our official WeChat account (ThatsGuangzhou) before October 10 with the subject ‘13’ and why you should win. Please include your full name and contact number.

Sleeping Beauty Ballet

Of Tchaikovsky’s three classic ballets, Sleeping Beauty, in contrast with Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, stands out in its presentation with a grand setting, spectacular scenes and demanding dance moves. This month at the Guangzhou Opera House, the highly-acclaimed, century-old Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre will present their rendition of this all-time ballet classic. Tue-Wed Oct 23-24, 7.30pm; RMB80680. Guangzhou Opera House, 1 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Tianhe District 天河区 珠江西路1号广州大剧院 (3839 2888, gzdjy.org)

Mr. R – Outsider is a modern dance performance set against the backdrop of a modern social network. The dancer, wearing a rabbit mask that shields him from the world and allows him to pursue his dreams, slowly finds himself a castaway. The story tackles concepts such as ego, dreams and one’s interpretation of the world. Narrated through a blend of choreography, visual effects and background music, this dance performance from Taiwan has won critical acclaim after being staged at various art festivals in Europe. Sun Oct 21, 3pm; RMB180-380. Guangzhou Opera House, 1 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Tianhe District 天河区珠江西路1号广州大剧院 (3839 2888, gzdjy.org)

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win!

We have a pair of tickets to this show to give away! Message our official WeChat account (ThatsGuangzhou) before October 19 with the subject ‘Mr. R’ and why you should win. Please include your full name and contact number.

Studies of free trade zones around the world focus on how these operational spaces serve as policy tools and infrastructure to facilitate global economic integration. Yet in China, Special Economic Zones – which sprang up right after the nation’s economic reform began in 1978 – are not simply just windows to the outside world welcoming foreign capital and technology, but experimental sites to cope with a series of epistemological ruptures created by the reform in almost all aspects of life. Through the eyes of the 15 participating artists, the exhibition enters into the theoretically-rich arena of various technologies and special areas, sharing multiple views on the story of science and technology’s growth in contemporary China. Tue-Sun until Nov 11, 10am-6pm; RMB30/15 for students. Time Museum, Times Rose Garden, Huangbian Bei Lu, Baiyun Dadao, Baiyun District 白云区白云大道北黄边 北路时代玫瑰园时代美术馆 (timesmuseum.org)


Crab and Oyster Feast Buffet Dinner

Give Me Five Happy Hours

TA S T E Weekend Piattini Lunch

G Restaurant is bringing a brand new dining experience to town this month with the launch of a special lunch menu created by Executive Chef David Jean Marteau. Indulge in a range of new gastronomic delights with your friends and family every Saturday and Sunday until the end of the year. Sat-Sun until Dec 31, 2.30-5pm. G Restaurant, Grand Hyatt Guangzhou, 12 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Tianhe District 天 河区珠江西路12号广州富力君悦大酒 店 (8396 1234)

Do you enjoy a good deal and a great view? Then look no further than this fantastic promotion from the folks at LN Hotel Five: on the 5th, 15th and 25th as well as on each Monday and Wednesday of October, choose any beer from Roof Top Bar's selections, each priced at only RMB5, or enjoy a free flow of house wine at RMB55 per person. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other hotel promotions. Call 8931 0505 for more information. 5th, 15th, 25th, Mon & Wed until October 31, 5.30-7.30pm. Roof Top Bar, LN Hotel Five, Guangzhou, 277 Yanjiang Zhong Lu, Yuexiu District 越秀区沿江中路 277号广州岭南五号酒店 (8931 0505)

It’s autumn, which means one thing: crab and oyster season (and changing colors, we suppose). Senses restaurant in Hilton Guangzhou Baiyun offers an extravagant spread of fresh seafood this month, featuring an appetizing selection of crabs as well as oysters from France, New Zealand, Australia, Japan and Namibia. Free flow of house wine and soft drinks as well as a live band performance will entertain guests each evening. For reservations, call 6667 8076. Daily all month, 6-10pm; RMB328 (Mon-Thu), RMB368 (Fri-Sun), prices are subject to a 15 percent service charge. Sense All Day Dining, 1/F, Hilton Guangzhou Baiyun, 515-517 Yuncheng Dong Lu, Baiyun District 白 云区云城东路515-517号白云万达希尔 顿酒店 (6667 8076)

Color Run

DO Halloween Party at SD Livehouse Festival

Expect thrilling music, dancing zombies, scary clowns, customized makeup and more at SD Livehouse this Halloween. The live music venue is playing host to an ‘evil women’-themed party, where live electronic and rock music are set to liven up the evening on October 27. There will also be a variety of games to entertain partygoers. Sat Oct 27, 7-8.30pm/9.30-11pm; RMB128, RMB188 VIP. SD Livehouse, Building No. 7, Huacheng Wangshi Creative Area, 132 Gongye Dadao Bei, Haizhu District 海珠区工业大道北132号花城往事创意园7栋 (showstart.com)

The famed Color Run, the world’s largest running series, is often referred to as “the happiest 5 kilometers on earth” for bringing people together to promote healthy living. A total of 225 runs were held in 35 countries in 2015, four years after the event’s inception. It’s not about speed nor ranking, but sharing joy with friends and strangers alike. Participants will receive a running package containing a T-shirt, headband, tattoo sticker, bag of colorful powder, colorful glasses and a Color Run bag. The Guangzhou event is taking place on November 24, but we recommend snagging your tickets now – as this event is known to sell out up to a month in advance. Sat Nov 24, 9.30am; RMB228/288. Sports Park, Ersha Island, Yuexiu District 越秀 区二沙岛体育公园 (247tickets.com) WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | OCTOBER 2018 | GZ | 63


HOTEL NEWS NEWS LN Garden Hotel Hosts the Gala Dinner for ‘World Routes 2018’ On the evening of September 17, LN Garden Hotel hosted an extravagant gala dinner for more than 3,000 distinguished guests from the 24th World Route Development Forum, which was held in our fair city from September 15-18. With participation of more than 3,000 delegates, 130 tourist authorities and 300 airlines, who represent more than 100 countries, the occasion presented an unrivaled platform for route development professionals to discuss, develop and plan transportation network strategies. The LN Garden Hotel took this as an opportunity to showcase an excellent gastronomic experience and superior service, which were delivered at first-class standards. In anticipation of the event, the hotel actively approached the relevant government departments, conducted a number of field tests and provided extensive training to more than 800 staffers.

Gentle Play Vol.2 Fashion Show at Courtyard by Marriott Shunde Longjiang

Crowne Plaza Zhongshan Xiaolan Exhibits High-End Wedding Ceremony On September 6, Crowne Plaza Zhongshan Xiaolan teamed up with Big Day, a high-end wedding planning company, to host a demonstration reception. The event was intended to display the hotel’s proficiency at hosting high-end wedding ceremonies. Held in the ‘Crown Hall’ on the third floor of the hotel, the reception was attended by nearly 130 guests.

Courtyard by Marriott Shunde Longjiang occupies a prime location in the heart of Longjiang Commercial Center in Foshan’s Shunde District. The hotel is located a short 15-minute drive from the Guangdong International Furniture Exhibition and only 75 kilometers from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. Last month, Courtyard by Marriott Shunde Longjian hosted the the Gentle Play Vol.2 Fashion Show.

PROMOTIONS ‘Escape to the Stars’ Room Package

InterContinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center Officially Opens Char Restaurant After a few months of trial operation, Char has officially opened at Intercontinental Guangzhou Exhibition Center. The restaurant boasts clean and simple decor and specializes in delicious American fare. The fourth branch in China, Char undertakes a strict selection process for ingredients and focuses heavily on the details that contribute to a memorable dining experience.

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To celebrate receiving 15 stars from Forbes and recognition from the Michelin Guide this year, Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou is offering a delightful room package from September until the end of March. The hotel’s new ‘Escape to the Stars’ room package offers a luxurious, one-night hospitality experience for two people in a Club Executive Suite. The promotion includes breakfast for two, a set lunch for two at Jiang by Chef Fei (a one-star Michelin restaurant), a semi-buffet dinner at Ebony (a Michelin Plate winner) and a onehour massage for two at The Spa. This room package is priced at RMB6,888 plus an additional 16.6 percent added to cover service charges and tax. Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou, 389 Tianhe Lu, Tianhe District 天 河区天河路389号广州文华东方酒店 (3808 8881)


HONG KONG & MACAU CALENDAR HK

OCT 1 SAT

National Day Race Meeting, 12 6pm; HKD10-130. Sha Tin Racecourse (Sha Tin Racecourse and selected off course betting branches) Get into the holiday spirit this National Day at Sha Tin Racecourse with a fun and exciting day at the races. Tourists to the city can enjoy free entry to the racecourse upon presentation of valid travel documents. Enjoy local delicacies as you watch jockeys compete for the chance to win The National Cup and The Celebration Cup. Also be sure to make it in time for the opening ceremony which will feature the impressive Guangxi Acrobatic Troupe.

OCT 5-6

WED-THU

Beertopia, 6-11pm/12-11pm. HKD250-495. Central Harbourfront Event Space.(beertopiahk.com) International craft beer festival Beertopia brings together over 500 different beers from around the world, with food stalls and live musical performances thrown in for what promises to be a fantastic weekend for fans of Asia’s growing craft beer scene. Now in its fifth year, Beertopia is Hong Kong’s biggest beer festival and features local Hong Kong breweries such as Meow Beer, Hong Kong Beer Co. and many more.

OCT 18-20 WED

One Belt One Road Experimental

Theatre, 4/8pm; HKD100-200. Hong Kong Cultural Centre.(urbtix.com) Hong Kong’s place as one of the most important cities on China’s One Belt One Road makes it a prime location to discuss the culture and history of other locations dotted along the mainland’s economic super project. Head to Hong Kong Cultural Centre between October 18 and 20 to watch artists perform together in a mirrored theater for what should be a mindblowing event of abstract ideas.

OCT 19 - NOV 18 DAILY

New Vision Arts Festival, 8.30pm. Hong Kong Cultural Centre/Sha Tin Town Hall/Kwai Tsing Theatre This biennial festival will feature music by Mercury Prize winning producer Jamie XX at the opening ceremony, modern takes on old classics such as Swan Lake and Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s Notes from the Underground, as well as a ton of other art events across an array of media. Set in various locations over the course of a month, New Vision Arts Festival has something for creative folks from all walks of life.

OCT 25 TUE

The Fratellis, 8pm; HKD450 presale. Music Zone @ E-Max (cityline.com) After finding fame with singles such as ‘Chelsea Dagger’ and ‘Whistle for a Choir,’ this Scottish band has gone on to release five albums since forming in 2005, despite a three-year hiatus from 2009-2012. The group arrive in Hong Kong on the back of their world tour in support of their latest album, In Your Own Sweet Time. Fans of upbeat garage rock can make their way down to Music Zone @ E-Max in the city’s Kowloon Bay.

MO

MID-OCT (TBC)

A-Ma Cultural and Tourism Festival, all day; free. A-Ma Cultural Village, Mt. Coloane (macautourism.gov.mo) The 2018 edition of Macau’s A-Ma Cultural and Tourism Festival, one of the city’s many UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage gems, will see a golden statue of Mazu – the Chinese goddess of the sea – paraded through the streets near A-Ma Cultural Village and Lao Hon Park. The pious procession will be accompanied by traditional folk dances.

OCT 19-21

Mariah Carey: World Tour 2018, 8pm; MOP480-1,280. The Venetian Macau Pop legend Mariah Carey is coming to Macau! One of the bestselling artists of all time and the recipient of five Grammy Awards, Mariah Carey is credited with inspiring a generation of pop and R&B singers worldwide. Catch the diva's celebrated voice and charttopping hits, including ‘Hero’ and ‘When You Believe,’ on October 20 at The Venetian Macau.

ONGOING DAILY

Keith Haring Maze Macau, 1-9pm; MOP100. Cotai Expo Hall F, The Venetian Macao (macauticket.com) Conceived by local artists in collaboration with New York-based art studio Artestar, the Keith Haring Maze Macau is a distinctive pop-art experience, in which audiences are introduced to sculptural renditions of artworks by Keith Haring, an iconic artist in the LGBT world.

FRI-SUN

ONGOING The 21st Lusofonia Festival, all day; free. Taipa Houses Museum (taipavillagemacau.com) First held in 1998, the Lusofonia Festival is a fun-filled, actionpacked carnival that celebrates the Portuguese heritage of Macau, with participation from both the Chinese and Portuguese-speaking communities. Featuring music, gastronomy, handicrafts and more from Portuguese-speaking countries like Cape Verde, Brazil, Mozambique, Angola, Goa and Timor Leste, this festive occasion will make for a fantastic family outing, as surrounding streets and lanes at Taipa village will be decked out in style.

OCT 20 SAT

TUE-SUN

Landscape of Change – Macau Watercolor Paintings, 10am-7pm; free. Macao Art Museum (mam. gov.mo) Check out an eclectic range of beautiful watercolor paintings currently on display at the Macau Art Museum. Categorized into four themes – The Coastline, Peaceful Time, Fishing Sceneries and Modern Glitz, these top-notch watercolors, which are part of the precious collections of the museum, showcase the SAR in different times and from unique perspectives, offering audiences an aesthetic look at the transformation of Macau from a fishing village to a major metropolis.

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CITY SCENES Spanish Chamber of Commerce in South China Gala Dinner Supported by

On September 14, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in South China held the sixth edition of its annual awards gala dinner. Representatives from the Embassy of Spain in the PRC, along with chairmen from various European chambers, institutions and companies, flew in from Beijing, Shanghai, Madrid and other cities to attend the ceremony. Also invited were media companies such as CCTV and That’s PRD. The ceremony underlined the healthy business relationship between Spain and China.

IWCC Founding Ceremony Supported by On September 19, the International Women in China Club held its official launch party. The organization, which is cofounded by iBorn Women’s Hospital, is devoted to women’s health issues, childhood education, family healthcare and charity, as well as forwarding the lifestyle and career aspirations of women living in China. The launch party was sponsored by many a chamber of commerce, That’s PRD and Urban Family, among others.

TEDxXiguan 2018 Conference Supported by TEDxXiguan 2018 landed in Guangzhou on August 26, being held once again at the LN Garden Hotel, Guangzhou. The event saw 15 distinguished speakers take the stage and was attended by 800 eager learners. Speakers included anthropologist Gordon Mathews, advocate Yi’ou Wang, photographer and artist Stefen Chow, executive business coach Mette Pausgaard and blockchain entrepreneur Warren Burke, among many other talented and creative individuals. Topics tackled at the event ranged from ‘Is China for the world, or just for Chinese’ to ‘Why you should travel solo with your toddler.’

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PRD FOCUS O

n September 7, The British School of Guangzhou held a ‘Stay & Learn’ session at its South Park building. The event invited parents to experience the school’s newest educational programs alongside their children.

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n concert with That’s PRD, Morton’s Grille hosted a glamorous reception on September 21 at its newly opened, breath-taking terrace on the sixth floor of IGC Mall. The launch party was attended by members of Guangzhou’s expat community, including international school teachers, restaurateurs and staffers from consulates and chambers of commerce.

A

s part of the fifth edition of the FrancoChinese Month of the Environment in Guangzhou, the exhibition When Artists Sit Down to Eat was launched at Art23 Contemporary Gallery on September 17. The exhibit was curated by the founders of a famous French food culture platform – Alimentation Générale.

O

ne of the hottest events of the year for Guangzhou’s fashionistas, W Fashion Week brought together fashion brands and up-and-coming designers to stage their latest creations at W Guangzhou from September 18 to 21.

O

n September 11 in Hong Kong, Genting Cruise Lines announced their latest addition to the Dream Cruises family – Explorer Dream, a 75,338-ton cruise ship capable of hosting 1,870 passengers. It will join the fleet in the spring of 2019 and take up the role of pathfinder for the brand’s global aspirations.

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eptember 14 saw the 208th anniversary of the independence of Mexico, which was observed by a roomful of distinguished guests from the Consul General of Mexico in Guangzhou. On this day of remembrance and celebration, Ambassador Carlos GiraltCabrales hosted a reception at the Grand Hyatt Guangzhou.

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ast month, AustCham South China and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce hosted the Women in Business Forum, a panel-based discussion on gender equality in the workplace and industry-specific career development.

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n 2015, the first upscale boutique hotel in Guangzhou officially opened its doors: LN Hotel Five. On the evening of August 31, the hotel celebrated its third anniversary with a sports-themed party. Among those invited were loyal patrons, hotel guests and media companies based in the city.

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he French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China (CCI France Chine), in partnership with the French Embassy in China, Valeo, ESSEC Business School and AUF (Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie), held its sixth China Talents Trophy Awards ceremony in Guangzhou on September 18 at Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich.

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LISTINGS FOOD & DRINK

Antidote Restaurant and Bar 39 Qiaoyi Yi Jie, Tianhe Bei Lu, Tianhe District (186 2071 9898) 天河区天河北路侨怡一街 39 号 Aroma Bistro Shop 117, 1/F, Voka Street, 460 Tianhe Bei Lu, Tianhe District (185 0200 1416) 天河区天河北路 460 号沃凯街首层 117 铺

Oggi Pizzeria 1) Shop 119, 8 Xingsheng Lu, Tianhe District (3805 1282); 4) 1 Tianlun Garden, Jianshe 4 Lu,Yuexiu District (8356 1196) www.oggirestaurant.com 卡布里西餐厅 1) 天河区兴盛路 8 号 119 铺 ; 2) 越 秀区建设四马路天伦花园首层

Qing Man Party Restaurant 2/F, B Zone, Party Pier, 118 Modiesha Dajie, Xingang Dong Lu, Haizhu District (8386 6998) 海珠区新港东路磨碟沙大街 118 号琶醍 B 区二楼

Scan here for complete Guangzhou listings

Want to see all restaurants, hotels and more in Guangzhou? Check out www.thatsmags.com or follow our official WeChat account by scanning the QR code. Winner of a That's PRD 2017 Food & Drink Awards www.summerhouse.com.cn) 佛山市禅城区岭南天地协天里(嫁娶屋正后面)粤 天地 112-116 号铺

188 9857 0042 (French, Chinese & English), 133 3287 0750 (Persian), 185 8876 4470 (English), www.nachina.com)

Sultan Restaurant Turkish BBQ 1) 1-3/F, 367 Huanshi Dong Lu, between Baiyun Hotel and Friendship Store, Yuexiu District (8349 4170, 8349 4171); 2) Shop 102 & 114, Zhonghai Jinghui Huating, 31 Xingsheng Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, TianHe District(3801 5002) 1) 苏坦土耳其烧烤餐厅 , 越秀区环市东路 367 号 1-3 楼 ( 白云宾馆与友谊商店夹位处 ); 2) 广州市天 河区珠江新城兴盛路 31 号中海璟晖华庭二期商铺 102 & 114

H&H Dental Center 1/F, Mingmen Building, 4 Huacheng Dadao, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (3808 0700, 3808 0729; 24-hour hotline: 139 2516 2826; E-mail: hnhdental@163.com) H&H 牙科中心(嘉茜医疗门诊 ), 天河区珠江新城花 城大道 4 号名门大厦正门首层

Morgan's Public House Traditional English style bar that fosters a cosy intimate atmosphere. Both Taverns offer an extensive menu of Western favorites and different theme nights throughout the whole week. 1) Poly 108, 6 Huajiu Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (8550 3038); 2) On the right side of the Huanan Country Garden, Yingbin Lu, Panyu District (3482 4882, www.tavernchina.com) 致盛 1) 天河区珠江新城华就路 6 号保利 108 公馆 ; 2) 番禺区迎宾路华南碧桂园大门右侧

Rebel Rebel 42 Tiyu Dong Lu, Tianhe District (8520 1579) 天河区体育东路 42 号

Ricci Creative Eats Shop 015B, G/F, Popark Mall, No.63 Linhe Zhong Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China (Across the street from IKEA) (3809 6330) 天河区林和中路 63 号东方宝泰购物广场首层(宜 家家居对面)

Bravo Shop 114-115, 6 Huajiu Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District 天河区珠江新城华就路 6 号 114-115 铺 Buongiorno 1) 3/F, Yi An Plaza, 33 Jianshe Liu Malu, Yuexiu District (8363 3587); 2) A7, Xinshijie Haoyuan Diyi Ju, 168 Dongcheng Nan Lu, Dongguan (0769 2339 6499) 邦奴意大利餐厅 1) 越秀区建设六马路宜安广场 3 楼 ; 2) 东莞市东城南路 168 号新世界豪圆第一居 A7 号

Element Fresh 1) Shop L302, TaiKoo Hui, 383 Tianhe Lu, Tianhe District (3808 8506); 2) G/F, 42 Qingfeng Jie, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (3828 8482) 新元素 , 1) 天河区天河路 383 号太古汇广场 L302 店 ; 2) 天河区珠江新城清风街 42 号首层

Slow Life An organic, healthconscious Western restaurant that excels in Spanish cuisine, Slow Life aims to be a place where guests can take a break from their busy schedules to visit with friends and family over a feast of delicious fusion dishes. Shop 107, 1/F, Gaozhi Dasha, 120 Huangpu Dadao Xi, Tianhe District; Shop 205, 2/F, Kaihua International Center, 5 Xiancun Lu, Tianhe District 天河区黄埔大道西120号高志大厦首层107铺 (3788 7173, 3788 7172); 天河区冼村路5号凯华国际中心 二楼205铺 (2818 7263) Shami House 2/F, Zhao Qing Da Sha, 304 Huanshi Zhong Lu, Yuexiu District (8355 3012 / 8355 3091) 莎 米 屋 , 越 秀 区 环 市 中 路 304 号 肇 庆 大 厦 2 楼

Gail’s American Cuisine & Bar Shop 11, 2/F, 6 Xingsheng Lu, Tianhe District (8928 0920, 3759 4226) 天河区兴盛路 6 号尚东君御二楼 11 铺

Hooley’s Irish Pub and Restaurant 1)101, 8 Xingsheng Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (3886 2675); 2) Section 2, Yijia Yuan, 7 Xingzhongdao, Zhongshan 1)爱尔兰西餐酒吧, 天河区珠江新城兴盛路8号101; 2) 中山市兴中道7号颐嘉苑2卡

HEALTH All Smile - Dr. Lu Int'l Dental Clinic Rm 603-604, 6/F, Metro Plaza, 183 Tianhe Bei Lu (24-hour hotline: 8755 3380). Mon-Sat 9am6pm (other times by appointment) 大都会牙科,天河北路183号大都会广场六楼 603-604 Bellaire Medical Center Rm 302D, Fuli Park, 28 Machang Lu (3891 0511/ 24-hr 152 1881 8990), Bellaireclinic.com 贝利尔诊所, 天河区珠江新城马场路富力公园28 商业区302D Deron Dental 3905-3909/F, Tianying Plaza East Tower, No.222 Xingming Lu, Tianhe (3886 4821,www.kaiyiyk.com) 德隆齿科诊所,广州市天河区兴民路 222 号天盈广 场东塔 39 楼 3905-3909 Dr. Sherily Xiao Master of Medicine. 21 years of TCM & Acupuncture & Physiotherapy & Massage 5 years International Clinic Experience. Only for appointment. Nr.132, Taojin Road, Yuexiu District(Tel: 137 1052 6617; E-mail: xiaoshuilan@hotmail.com) 越秀区淘金路132号

Happy Monk 1) Back of Yi’an Plaza, Jianshe Wu Malu, Yuexiu District (8376 5597) ; 2) No. 109, 7Xingsheng Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (3877 8679); 3) Outdoor Plaza, Happy Valley Mall, 36 Machang Lu, Tianhe District (3832 5317) 1) 越秀区建设五马路宜安广场后门 ; 2) 天河区珠江 新城兴盛路 7 号 109 号铺 ; 3) 天河区珠江新城马场 路 36 号太阳新天地户外广场

Summer House Directly behind the Marriage House, Xietian Li, Lingnan Tiandi, Chancheng District, Foshan (133 9223 6374,

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iBorn Women’s & Children's Hospital No.6 Longkou Dong Lu, Tianhe District (2811 6375/185 2018 8335) 广州爱博恩妇产医院 , 天河区龙口东路 6 号 Sing Health Medical 2 Xian Cun Rd, Zhu Jiang New City, Tian He District, Guangzhou, Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, SatSun 9am-3pm, Tel:3739 2500 Open Every Day 广州新宁门诊, 天河区 珠江新城 冼村路 2 号 United Family Guangzhou Clinic 1/F, Annex Bldg, PICC Bldg, 301 Guangzhou Dadao Zhong (4008 919 191, 24-hr urgent care: 8710 6060) 广州越秀和睦家门诊部 , 广州大道中 301 号人保大 厦南塔副楼首层 Guangzhou United Family Hospital Open 24/7. 24-hr Service Center: 4008 919191, 24-hr Emergency Hotline: (020) 3610 2333 No. 28, Fangyuan Lu, Haizhu District, Guangzhou 广州和睦家医院 广州市海珠区芳园路 28 号

Zapata’s Shop A21 Party Pier, Located in Party Pier, just a stone's throw away from the Canton Fair complex, the hot venue also comes with an outstanding riverside terrace, which is perfect for an evening of drunken merrymaking. Yuejiang Xi Lu, Haizhu District (8977 9596) 海珠区阅江西路珠江啤酒厂琶醍文化区 A21

Join the Bravo Mug Club to enjoy the following benefits: 1) points earned on every RMB1 spent at Bravo; 2) an exclusive pint glass; 3) four E-vouchers that can be redeemed for house brewed beer; and so much more! Annual membership costs RMB288. Visit Bravo for more details.

iBorn Clinic Rm 2202-2203, Qiaoxin Kingold Century, 62 Jinsui Lu, Tianhe District ( 3736 2020/ 24-hr 3736 2110) 爱博恩综合门诊 天河区珠江新城金穗路侨鑫金融 中心2202-2203

Eur Am Medical & Dental Center 1/F, North Tower, Ocean Pearl Bldg, 19 Huali Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng (3758 5328, 24hr urgent care: 137 1041 3347, www. eurammedicalcenter.com) 广州康辰医疗 , 珠江新城华利路 19 号远洋明珠大厦 北座首层 Guangzhou Narcotics Anonymous Meetings: Monday 6.30pm and Friday 7pm. (For help:

LIFESTYLE Guangdong Int’l Volunteer Expatriate Service (GIVES) Contact Rosaline Yam (8778 2778; givescn@ yahoo.com) www.gives.cn Guangzhou Women’s Int’l Club (GWIC) For contact information, visit www.gwic.org SO’ O LK (Hair Salon) 1) G/F, 545 Binjiang Dong Lu, Haizhu District (3425 7429); 2) Shop 103A, World Trade Centre, 371-375 Huanshi Dong Lu, Yuexiu District (8760 6299); 3) Shop101, 712 Binjiang Dong Lu, Haizhu District (8419 1022); 4) Shop101, Fuli Edinburgh Apartment, 2 Huali Lu, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District(3826 3718); 5) Shop 15 2/F, Chateau Star River Hotel, Yingbin Lu, Panyu District(3479 0641); 6) Shop81-82, G/F, New City Plaza, Olympic Garden, Luoxi New Town, Panyu District(3452 1826); 7) Shop 21, Agile Phase II, Fenghuang Bei Lu, Huadu District(3692 8686) 苏豪路易士,嘉玛发廊,1) 天河区天河北路 366 号 都市华庭 13 铺 ; 2) 越秀区环市东路 371-375 号世 界贸易中心首层 103A; 3) 海珠区滨江东路 712 号 101 铺 ; 4) 天河区珠江新城华利路 2 号富力爱丁堡 公寓 101 铺 ; 5) 番禺区迎宾路星河湾酒店 2 楼 15 号铺 ; 6) 番禺区洛溪新城奥园城市花园首层 81-82 号铺 ; 7) 花都区凤凰北路雅居乐二期 21 号铺 True Pilates China Studio provides Pilates & Gyrotonic lessons for everyone. Add: 503-12 Huajiu Road, Zhujiang New Town (South of GZ American Consulate) www.truepilateschina.com 18620076022 珠江新城华就路 12 号 503

EDUCATION American International School of Guangzhou (AISG) 1) 3 Yanyu Nan Lu, Ersha Island (8735 3393); 2) 19,Kexiang Road Luogang District,Science Park, Guangzhou (3213 5555) 1) 广州美国人 ,二沙岛烟雨南路 3 号 ; 2) 广州罗岗 区科翔路 19 号


Canadian Foreign Language School Cambridgshire Garden, Panyu District (39191868 ext. 0) 广州市番禺区剑桥郡加拿达外国语学校,广州市番 禺区剑桥郡花园 Canadian International School of Guangzhou Merchant Hill, Dongyi Lu, Panyu District (3925 5321, www.cisgz.com) 广州加拿大人国际学校,番禺区东艺路招商金山谷 Canadian Internatioanal Kindergarten Agile Garden, Yinbin Lu, Panyu District (8456 6551). 加拿大国际幼儿园,番禺区迎宾路雅居乐花园 Canton Global Academy 4 Chuangjia Road, Jinshazhou, Baiyun District, Guagnzhou (180 2401 1757) 广州寰宇外籍人员子女学校 , 广州市白云区金沙洲 创佳路 4 号 Clifford School International International Building, Clifford School, Clifford Estates, Shiguang Lu, Panyu District (8471 8273; 8471 1441; 8471 1694) 祈福英语实验学校,番禺区市广路

Langham Place Guangzhou 638 Xingang Dong Lu, Haizhu District(8916 3388) 广州南丰朗豪酒店 , 海珠区新港东路 638 号 LN Garden Hotel, Guangzhou 368, Huanshi Dong Lu (8333 8989, www.thegardenhotel. com.cn) LN Garden Hotel, Guangzhou, 368 Huanshi Dong Lu, Yuexiu District 广州花园酒店 , 越秀区环市东路 368 号花园酒 店 (8333 8989) LN Hotel Five, Guangzhou 277 Yanjiang Zhong Lu, Yuexiu District (8931 0505) 广州岭南五号酒店,越秀区沿江中路 277 号 Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou 389 Tianhe Lu, Tianhe District (3808 8888) 广州文华东方酒店 , 天河区天河路 389 号 Park Hyatt Guangzhou 16 Huaxia Lu, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou (3769 1234) 广州柏悦酒店 天河区珠江新城华夏路 16 号 Shangri-La Hotel Guangzhou 1, Huizhan Dong Lu, Haizhu District (8917 8888, www. shangri-la.com) 广州香格里拉大酒店 , 海珠区会展东路 1 号

Eclipse English Education 18D, No.368, Tianhe Bei Road, GZ (Tel:38780382,18922769713) 爱誉英语, 天河北路, 368号, 18D

Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich 988 Guangzhou Dadao Zhong, Tianhe District (3883 8888) 广州圣丰索菲特大酒店 , 天河区广州大道中 988 号 . www.sofitel.com

Guangzhou Nanfang International School No. 1, Yucuiyuan North, Yinglong Lu, Longdong, Tianhe District (3886 6952, 3886 3606, Fax: 3886 3680, www.gnischina.org) 广州南方外籍人员子女学校,天河区龙洞迎龙路 瑜翠园北一号

The Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou 3, Xing’an Lu, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District (3813 6688, www.ritzcarlton.com) 广州富力丽思卡尔 顿酒店, 天河区珠江新城兴安路3号

ISA International School Guangzhou Block C2-2, 128 Yuancun Siheng Lu, Tianhe District (8890 0909, info@isaschool.com) 广 州爱莎国际学校, 天河区员村四横路128号红专厂 创意园C2-2

W Guangzhou 26 Xiancun Lu, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District (6628 6628) 广州 W 酒店 , 天河区珠江新城冼村路 26 号 White Swan Hotel 1 Shamian Nan Jie, Liwan District (8188 6968) 白天鹅宾馆 , 荔湾区沙面南街 1 号

Stone Eden Nursery School A316, Guangzhou Opera House, 1 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Tianhe District (8852 6503, info@ stoneedennursery.com) 英诺儿英国早托 , 天河区珠江西路 1 号广州大剧院 A316

CONSULATES

The British School of Guangzhou 983-3 Tonghe Lu, Baiyun District (8709 4788) 广州 英国学校, 白云区同和路983-3

Argentina 2405, Teem Tower, 208 Tianhe Lu, Tianhe District (3888 0328, cguan@ mrecic.gov.ar) 阿根廷共和国领事馆 , 天河区天河路 208 号粤海天 河城大厦 2405 单元

Trinity International Kindergarten 663 Huacheng Dadao, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District (8558 3287) 圣心国际幼稚园, 天河区珠江新城花城大道663号 Utahloy Int’l School www.utahloy.com 1) 800 Shatai Bei Lu, Baiyun District (8720 2019, fax 8704 4296); 2) Sanjiang Town, Zeng Cheng (8291 4691 fax: 8291 3303) 广州誉德莱国际学校,1) 白云区沙太北路 800 号 ;2) 增城三江镇

HOTEL Chimelong Hotel Panyu Dadao, Panyu District (8478 6838, gz.chimelong.com) 长隆酒店 , 番禺区番禺大道 Chimelong Hengqin Bay Hotel Hengqin New District, Zhuhai (0756-299 8888, www. chimelong.com) 长隆横琴湾酒店 , 珠海市横琴新区 Chimelong Penguin Hotel Hengqin New District, Zhuhai (0756-299 3366, www.chimelong.com) 长隆企鹅酒店, 珠海市横琴新区 Chimelong Circus Hotel Hengqin New District, Zhuhai (0756-299 3399, www.chimelong.com) 长隆马戏酒店, 珠海市横琴新区 China Hotel, A Marriott Hotel 122, Liuhua Lu (8666 6888) www.MarriottChinahotel.com 中国大酒店 , 流花路 122 号 Conrad Guangzhou 222 Xingmin Lu, Tianhe District (3739 2222) 广州康莱德酒店,天河区兴民路222号 DoubleTree by Hilton Guangzhou 391 Dongfeng Lu, Yuexiu District (2833 7215; 2833 2888) 广州希尔顿逸林酒店 , 越秀区东风路 391 号 Grand Hyatt Guangzhou 12, Zhujiang Xi Lu, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District (8396 1234 www.guangzhou.grand.hyatt.com) 广州富力君悦大酒店 , 天河区珠江新城珠江西路 12 号 Guangzhou Marriott Hotel Tianhe 228 Tianhe Lu, Tianhe District (6108 8888) 广州正佳广场万豪酒店,天河区天河路 228 号

Brazil Rm 1403, 10 Huaxia Lu, R&F Center, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District (02083652236; cg. cantao.itamaraty.gov.br) 巴西驻广州总领事馆 , 珠江新城华夏路 10 号富力 中心 1403 室 Australia 12/F, Zhujiang New City, Development Centre, 3 Linjiang Lu (Tel: 3814 0111; Fax: 3814 0112) www.guangzhou.china. embassy.gov.au 澳大利亚领事馆,临江路 3 号珠江新城发展中心 12 楼 Belgium Room 0702, 7/F, R & F Center, Unit 2, 10 Huaxia Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (Tel: 3877 2351; Fax: 3877 2353) 天河区珠江新城华夏路 10 号富力中心 7 楼 0702 室 Cambodia Rm 802, The Garden Hotel (Tower), Huangshi Dong Lu (Tel: 8333 8999 - 805; Fax: 8365 2361) 柬埔寨领事馆,环市东路花园酒店大楼 808 室 Canada 26/F, Tower 1, Taikoo Hui, 385 Tianhe Lu, Tianhe District (Tel: 8611 6100, Fax: 8667 2401) www.guangzhou.gc.ca 加拿大领事馆,天河区天河路 385 号太古汇一座 26 楼 Colombia Unit 12, 36/F No 5, Zhujiang West Road, Tianhe, Guangzhou (8883 4826, cguangzhou@cancilleria.gov.co) 哥伦比亚驻广州总领事馆,珠江西路 5 号广州国际 金融中心主塔写字楼 36 层 12 单元 Cuba Rm 2411, West Tower, Huapu Plaza, 13 Huaming Lu, Zhujiang New Town (Tel: 2238 2603 / 2238 2604; Fax: 2238 2605) 珠江新城华明路 13 号华普广场西塔 2411 Denmark Rm 1578, China Hotel, A Marriott Hotel, 122 Liuhua Lu (Tel: 8666 0795; Fax: 8667 0315) 丹麦领事馆,流花路 122 号中国大酒店写字楼 1578 室  Ecuador Room 1801, R&F Building, 10 Huaxia Lu, Zhujiang New Town (Tel: 3892 7650; Fax: 3892 7550) 厄瓜多尔共和国驻广州领事馆,珠江新城华夏路 10 号富力中心 1801 室 France Rm 1901-1907, Central Tower (Kaihua International Center), 5 Xiancun Lu,

Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (www. consulfrance-canton.org; Tel: 2829 2000; Fax: 2829 2001) 法国驻广州总领事馆,天河区珠江新城冼村路 5 号凯华国际中心 1901-1907 室 Germany 14/F Teem Tower, 208 Tianhe Lu, Tianhe District (Tel: 8313 0000; Fax: 8516 8133) www.kanton.diplo.de 德国领事馆,天河路 208 号粤海天河城大厦 14 楼 Greece Rm 2105, HNA Building, 8 Linhe Zhong Lu (Tel: 8550 1114; Fax: 8550 1450; grgencon.guan@mfa.gr) 希腊领事馆 , 林和中路 8 号海航大厦 2105 室

Thailand Rm M07, 2/F, Garden Hotel, 368 Huanshi Dong Lu (Tel: 8385 8988; Fax: 8388 9567) 泰国领事馆,环市东路 368 号花园酒店 2 楼 M07 室 The Russian Federation 26/A, Development Centre, 3 Linjiang Dadao, Zhujiang New Town (8518 5001 Fax: 8518 5099 (office)/ 8518 5088(visa section)) 俄罗斯联邦驻广州总领事馆 , 珠江新城临江大道 3 号发展中心 26/A Turkey Rm. 23A, Development Center Building, 3 Linjiang Dadao, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (3785 3466, bkesmen@mfa. gov.tr) 天河区珠江新城临江大道 3 号发展中心 23A

India 14/F, Haichuan Dasha, 8 Linhe Zhong Lu, Tianhe District (8550 1501-05) 印度领事馆,天河区林和中路 8 号海船大厦 14 楼 Indonesia Rm 1201-1223, 2/F, West Building, Dong Fang Hotel, 120 Liuhua Lu (Tel: 8601 8772; fax 8601 8773; kjrigz@public.guangzhou. gd.cn) 印度尼西亚领事馆,流花路 120 号东方宾馆西座 2 楼 1201-1223 室 Israel 19/F, Development Center, 3 Linjiang Dadao, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District (8513 0509) 以色列领事馆,天河区珠江新城临江大道 3 号发 展中心 19 楼 . Guangzhou.mfa.gov.il Italy Rm 1403, International Finance Place (IFP), 8, Huaxia Lu, Zhujiang New Town (Tel: 3839 6225; Fax: 8550 6370) 意大利领事馆,珠江新城华夏路 8 号合景国际金融 广场 14 楼 1403 室 Japan 1/F, East Tower, The Garden Hotel, 368 Huanshi Dong Lu (Tel: 8334 3009; Fax: 8333 8972) www.guangzhou.cn.emb-japan. go.jp 日本领事馆,环市东路 368 号花园酒店东塔 1 楼 Korea (Republic) 18 Youlin Lu, Chigang Consulate Area, Haizhu District (Tel: 2919 2999; fax 2919 2980; Guangzhou@mofat.go.kr) 韩国领事馆,海珠区赤岗领事馆区友邻路 18 号 Kuwait 10A-10D, Nanyazhonghe Plaza, 57 Lingjiang Dadao, Zhujiang New Town (Tel: 3807 8070; Fax: 3807 8007). 科威特国总领事馆,珠江新城临江大道 57 号南雅 中和广场 10A-10D Malaysia Rm 1915-1918, 19/F, CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe Bei Lu ((Tel: 3877 0765; Fax: 3877 2320) 马来西亚领事馆,天河北路 233 号中信广场 19 楼 1915-1918 室 Mexico Rm2001, Teem Tower, 208 Tianhe Bei Lu (Tel: 2208 1540; Fax: 2208 1539) 墨西哥领事馆,天河路 208 号粤海天河城大厦 20 楼 01 单元 Netherlands 34/F, Teem Tower, 208 Tianhe Lu, Tianhe Bei Lu (Tel: 3813 2200; Fax: 3813 2299) www.hollandinchina.org 荷兰领事馆,天河路 208 号粤海天河城大厦 34 楼 New Zealand Rm C1055, Office Tower, China Hotel, A Marriott Hotel, 122 Liuhua Lu (Tel: 8667 0253; Fax: 8666 6420; Guangzhou@ nzte.govt.nz) www.nzte.govt.nz 新西兰领事馆,流花路 122 号中国大酒店商业大 厦 1055 室 Norway Suite 1802, CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe Bei Lu (3811 3188 Fax: 3811 3199) 挪威领事馆,天河北路 233 号中信广场 180 室 Peru Unit 01 on 32/F 5 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Tianhe (Tel: 6184 6244; Fax: 6631 1804) 秘鲁驻广州总领事馆,珠江西路5号广州国际金融 中心主塔写字楼32层01单元 Philippines Rm 706-712 Guangdong Int’l Hotel, 339 Huanshi Dong Lu (Tel: 8331 1461; Fax: 8333 0573) www.guangzhoupcg.org 菲律宾领事馆,环市东路 339 号广东国际大酒店 主楼 706-712 室 Poland 63 Shamian Da Jie (Tel: 8121 9993; Fax: 8121 9995) 波兰领事馆,沙面大街 63 号 Singapore Unit 2418, CITIC Plaza, 233 Tianhe Bei Lu (Tel: 3891 2345; Fax: 3891 2933) 新加坡领事馆,天河北路 233 中信广场 2418 室 Spain Rm 501/507/508 5/F, R&F Center, 10 Huaxia Lu, Pearl River New City (Tel: 3892 7185 / 3892 8909; Fax: 3892 7197). www. maec.es/consulados/canton 西班牙驻广州总领事馆,珠江新城华夏路 10 号富 力中心 5 楼 501/507/508 室 Switzerland 27/F, Kingold Century, 62 Jinsui Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (Tel: 3833 0450; Fax: 3833 0453) 瑞士领事馆,天河区珠江新城金穗路 62 号侨鑫国 际金融中心 27 层

United States 43 Huajiu Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (Tel: 3814 5000) http://guangzhou-ch.usembassy-china. org.cn/   美国领事馆,天河区珠江新城华就路 43 号 Vietnam 2/F, Hua Xia Hotel, Haizhou Square, Qiaoguang Lu (Tel: 8330 5911; Fax: 8330 5915) 越南领事馆,侨光路华沙大酒店 B 座 2 楼北部

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE American Chamber of Commerce Suite 1801, Guangzhou International Sourcing Center, 8 Pazhou Dadao Dong, Haizhu District (Tel: 8335 1476; Fax: 8332 1642; amcham@amcham-sunthchina.org) www. amcham-southchina.org 美国商会,海珠区琶洲大道东 8 号广州国际采购中 心 1801 室 Australian Chamber of Commerce Rm1714 -15, Main Tower, Guangdong International Building, 339 Huanshi Dong Lu (Tel: 2237 2866; Fax: 8319 0765; mail@ austcham-southchina.org). www.austcham-southchina.org 澳洲商会,环市东路 339 号广东国际大厦主楼 1714 – 15 室 BenCham, Benelux (Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg) Chamber of Commerce in China, Pearl River Delta, Floor 34, 208 Teem Tower, 208 Tianhe Lu (155 2118 2708 ). 荷比卢商会 , 天河路 208 号粤海天河城大厦 34 楼 www.bencham.org British Chamber of Commerce Unit 2201B, International Financial Center, 5 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Tianhe District ( Tel: 8331 5013; Fax: 8331 5016; events@britchamgd.com) 英国商会,天河区珠江西路 5 号国际金融中心 2201B European Union Chamber of Commerce Rm 2817, Tower A, Shine Plaza, 9 Linhe Xi Lu, Tianhe District (Tel: 3801 0269; Fax: 3801 0275) 中国欧盟商会,天河区林和西路 9 号耀中广场 A 塔 2817 室 French Chamber of Commerce in South China (CCIFC) Room 802, 8/F, Leatop Plaza, 32 Zhujiang Dong Lu, Zhujiang Xincheng, Tianhe District (2916 5535) 天河区珠江新城珠江东路 32 号利通广场 8 层 02 单元 German Chamber of Commerce 1903 Leatop Plaza, 32 Zhujiang Dong Lu, Tianhe District (Tel: 8755 2353; Fax: 8755 1889; chamber@gz.china.ahk.de) china.ahk.de 天河区珠江东路 32 号利通广场 1903 室 Italian Chamber of Commerce Rm 948, Office Tower, the Garden Hotel, 368 Huanshi Dong Lu ( Tel: 8365 2682; Fax: 8365 2983) 意大利商会,环市东路 368 号花园大厦 948 房 www.cameraitacina.com China-Philippines Chamber of Commerce Rm 1613, Main Tower, Guangdong International Hotel, 339 Huanshi Dong Lu (8331 1888-71613; Fax: 8331 1983; E-mail: cpcc2005@21cn.com) 中国菲律宾商会,环市东路 339 号广东国际大酒 店主楼 1613 室 Spanish Chamber of Commerce Rm. 1305, 13/F, Main Tower, Guangdong International Building, 339 Huanshi Dong Lu, Yuexiu District (Tel: 3892 7531; Fax: 3892 7127; www. spanishchamber-ch.com) 越秀区环市东路 339 号广东国际大厦主楼 1305 室

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | OCTOBER 2018 | GZ | 69


CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS SERVICES

4. Landscaping/Indoor Plant 5. Carpet Cleaning 6. Pest Control Tel: (86 20) 2816 5345 Email: guangzhou@centuryrelo.com

ACCOUNTING FIRMS

HiTouch Consulting • Hong Kong Company • Company Registration • Tax & Accounting • Trademark & Patent • China Visa Tel: 400-9999-793 Website: www.hitouch.com Guangzhou丨Shanghai 丨Yiwu Asiabs & B.string Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai 1) Setting-up HK, BVI and other offshore company 2) Setting-up WFOE, JV, Representative Office in China mainland 3) Accounting, Taxation, HR, Visa & Trading service Tel: 852 8102 2592 /  86 21 58362605       86 10 65637970 Website: www.AsiaBS.com www.Stringbc.com E-mail: info@stringbc.com CENTURY, a Comprehensive Office Services Company 1. Office Relocation, Personal Relocation 2. Second-hand Office Furniture Resell 3. Office Cleaning Services

Harris Corporate Solutions Ltd Guangzhou | Shanghai | Beijing | Hong Kong Established since 1972 • WFOE & Rep. Office Set Up • Accounting & Tax Compliance • Payroll, HR & Visa Solutions • Hong Kong & Offshore Company Registration • Hong Kong & China Bank Account Opening Serving all your business needs for investing in China. Call us for a free consultation. Tel: (86)20-8762 0508 Mobile: 135-703-48815 Email: info.gz@harriscorps.com.cn Romeo Lau & Co. work visa, WFOE, JV, RO, HK company, auditing, car rental,driver license. www.romeolawoffice.com Mobile: 13570993252, 020-38865269, dmc_ canto@yahoo.com

CHURCH CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Expatriates welcome! Large group multinational, non-denominational expatriate Christians hold English services Sundays 10.00am to 11.30am. Need foreign citizenship proof. Website: www.gicf.net Tel: 177 2768 5019.

JOBS OFFERED South China HR English Website

(English.job168.com) China's most famous & professional job hunting website 8/F, Nanfang Jingdian Building, No. 198 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou 1/F,Huapu Building, No.104 Tianhe Road,Guangzhou (Tel: 85584676) 南方人才网英文站(english.job168.com) 广州市天河路198号南方精典大厦八楼 广州市天河路104号华普大厦西座一楼 Eclipse English Education Native English teachers wanted. Competitive pay with flexible scheduling. Free Chinese classes for employees.Tianhe location. 13902273359 or (020) 38780382 Mrs.Wong The Australian Chamber of Commerce South China is hiring an Events and Communications Manager to facilitate Australia-China business relations through industry event management and China-ready marketing. The Events Coordinator is responsible for the Chamber's events program and related communications. The events program is one of the Chamber's main streams of revenue. For more information, please call the AustCham office at +86 020 22372866 and to apply, please email a 1-2 page CV and 1-page cover letter to asha.forsyth@ austcham-southchina.org.

REAL ESTATE Life Partner provides house leasing, housekeeping and other personalized services to expatriates from Multi Corporations and foreign institutes as well as to individuals. Guangzhou/Foshan/Zhaoqing/Zhengzhou/Wuhan Since 2004 Contact Person: Ellen Pan, Tel: 020-3881 3137, Mobile: 159 1878 3607 Email: panhj@lifepartner.cn Web: www.lifepartner.cn

TRAVEL Free N Easy Travel An International Travel Agency in GZ, offers you the most competitive airfares, best discounted hotels worldwide and great getaway packages. Call our Toll free no.800-830-2353 or Tel 3877 2345 or email us at Guangzhou@ fnetravel.com or visit us at our travel center at 218 Sky Galleria, CITIC PALAZA, 233 Tianhe North Road or check for more details at our website---www .fnetravel .com Turkish Airlines Rm. 6107, Citic Plaza, 233 Tianhe Bei Lu, Tianhe District (3877 1690, 3877 1691, www.turkishairlines.com)天河区 天河北路233号中信广场6107室

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ARGENTINIAN WINES UNCOVERED Chile has dominated South American wine exports for many years, however, slowly the tides are turning with Argentina quickly catching up. Argentina is the world’s fifth largest producer of wine and produces almost five times more more wine than Chile, so it should come as no surprise that we’re beginning to see more Argentinian wines in China.

Argentina’s wine story starts in earnest in the 90s, when serious investments began to drag the nation’s wineries into the 20th century. The most famous grape variety in Argentina has always been malbec, which is easy to drink and full of juicy, red fruit flavors. While malbec grapes struggled with disease in France’s cold, wet climate, the variety has thrived in the hot, high-altitude region of Mendoza. Malbec pairs exceptionally well with BBQ meats, which form a large part of the Argentinian diet. 70 | GZ | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

Argentina also makes exceptional cabernet sauvignon as well as sauvignon blanc and traditional method sparkling wines, including chardonnay and pinot noir. Below, we’ve selected Argentinian wines for you to taste this month:

Pascual Toso Estate Malbec

This malbec is a vibrant purple color and has a lovely floral nose. The palate shows juicy blackcurrants and redcurrants sitting on subtle notes of leather, coffee, dark chocolate and vanilla.

Pascual Toso Estate Cabernet Sauvignon This cabernet shows a fruity nose with plums and quince and a subtle touch of elegant oak. The mouth feel is mild with flavors of blackberries and licorice on a lingering vanilla finish. Where to find these wines: Social&Co will be featuring the cabernet sauvignon and sauvignon blanc as wines of the month in October, while Fuel French Restaurant offers the malbec and sparkling on their wine list. You can order these wines for home delivery at www.thewinepeople.cn

We offer free home delivery within Guangdong for orders of 6 bottles and above. Please scan the QR code to get in touch with us and let us know your order.


CLASSICAL CLASSICAL CHINESE CHINESE POETRY AND PROSEAND PROSE POETRY An Accomplished Writer on the Art of Translation An Accomplished Writer on the Art of Translation Written by Xu Yuanchong

out the Author:

Written by Xu Yuanchong

About the Author:

in Nanchang, Jiangxi in 1921, XuBorn in Nanchang, Jiangxi in 1921, Xu chong graduated from the Southwest Yuanchong graduated from the Southwest ciated University and UniversitéAssociated de Paris University and Université de Paris worked as a professor of literaryand translaworked as a professor of literary translaat Peking University. During his decadestion at Peking University. During his decadescareer, Xu has published On Chinese longVerse career, Xu has published On Chinese Verse glish Rhyme and Vanished Springs, which Rhyme and Vanished Springs, which in English red a preface by Nobel Prize winner for a preface by Nobel Prize winner for featured cs, C. N. Yang. In addition to Songs of the C. N. Yang. In addition to Songs of the physics, ortals published by Penguin Books, he Immortals published by Penguin Books, he ranslated many Chinese literaryhas clastranslated many Chinese literary clasnto English or French. Some of his sicsmost into English or French. Some of his most ble work include Book of Poetry, notable Elegies work include Book of Poetry, Elegies South, 300 Tang Poems, 300 Song Lyrics, of the South, 300 Tang Poems, 300 Song Lyrics, ted Poems of Li Bai, Poems and Lyrics of Poems of Li Bai, Poems and Lyrics of Selected ngpo, Romance of Western Bower Suand Dongpo, Romance of Western Bower and elected Poems of Mao Zedong. HeThe hasSelected Poems of Mao Zedong. He has ranslated some world literary classics, also translated some world literary classics, as Gustave Flaubert’s Madame Bovary such as Gustave Flaubert’s Madame Bovary Chinese. Prof. Xu received the Lifetime into Chinese. Prof. Xu received the Lifetime vement Award in Translation conferred Achievement Award in Translation conferred e Translators Association of China (TAC) by the Translators Association of China (TAC) 10. in 2010.

TSMAGS.COM

About the Book:

About the Book:

More than 2,000 years ago, Chinese poets More than 2,000 years ago, Chinese poets wrote the beautiful works The Book of Songsthe beautiful works The Book of Songs wrote and The Songs of Chu. Later, they created and The Songs of Chu. Later, they created more beautiful poems during the Tang more beautiful poems during the Tang and Song dynasties. Classic works like The and Song dynasties. Classic works like The Analects of Confucius and Lao Zi are Analects not only of Confucius and Lao Zi are not only symbols for traditional values and ideology, symbols for traditional values and ideology, they’re also an important bridge between thealso an important bridge between the they’re rest of the world and China. rest of the world and China.

66 | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | OCTOBER 2018 | GZ | 71


That’s

OCTOBER

ou angzh

Gu

Horoscopes

Finally, a horoscope that understands your life in Guangzhou. BY DOMINIQUE WONG

9.24~10.23

Libra

10.24~11.22

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

After all the glutinous mooncakes you ate last month, it’s finally time to hit the gym again. Make sure to wear red workout gear for good luck.

Halloween falls right in the middle of your sign, which is the only time of year in which you can unleash your inner darkness and no one would bat an eye. Don’t eat too much candy though – a sugar rush will make you do something truly embarrassing and it’ll go viral.

Attending multiple farewell parties this month will lead you to start t h i n k i n g a b o u t y o u r ow n C h i n a exit but all those free flow sangria brunches are still calling your name. Fine, maybe another year...

Refuse all group chat invitations this month. For groups you’re already in, don’t participate in any conversations unless they’re directed at you. If you must reply, only respond in five words or less. Don’t ask why.

Aquarius

Pisces

Aries

Taurus Your regular breakfast dim sum place is closed for good so it’s time to try something new. It’s a huge challenge for you since you’re a creature of habit, but those 7-Eleven baozi aren’t that bad... just get the ones with vegetarian fillings and skip the mystery meat. Yum!

11.23~12.21

1.21~2.19

2.20~3.20

3.21~4.20

There will be more than a few hiccups with your Didi rides this month, so we recommend sticking with the metro. Avoid any south-facing station exits, and remember to only take the escalators.

Overspending on your Golden Week trip means you’ll have to make some major cutbacks. Hunt for those cheap Meituan deals, or just cook your own food for once, you lazy fish. And don’t even think about splurging on any fancy French cheese at Olé .

A friendly face will confront you about your questionable WeChat sticker choices this month – don't fight it. Listen to them to avoid further damage to your reputation and invest your energy elsewhere. Blow off some steam with a boxing class.

Gemini

Cancer

Leo

12.22~1.20

4.21~5.21

Virgo

5.22~6.21

6.22~7.22

7.23~8.23

8.24~9.23

Alipay will fail you when you need it most this month, so have some backup cash in your wallet at all times. Or just ask your hot Tinder date to pay for your pricey drink at Arch Bar and expect to never see them again. Your call.

Feeling a little crabby, Crabby? You should totally do a lavish staycation with your BFF using that hotel voucher you won a while back. Double check the expiry date before you go though – you definitely can’t afford it.

A stranger will approach you on the metro, introduce himself in Chinese as a modeling agent and ask for your WeChat. Whatever you do, don’t give it out. Just pretend to be a tourist and act confused. That always works.

You promised your partner that you’d try to become less controlling, but your regular Starbucks order is still a ‘venti, non-fat, extra hot, no foam, vanilla latte.’ That's fine. Just don’t yell at the barista if they mess up your drink again, OK?

72 | GZ | OCTOBER 2018 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM




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