APRIL 2015
t r e t s, hea ticke t Win ncert play co by- nd a ! and rug ses a book s cla based DB
DB Tennis:
It's all about the LOVE! Join your community online
Publishers in DB since 2002
APRIL 2015
海濤閣 ONDA COURT
$16K
康慧台 HILLGROVE
$20K
海澄湖畔 SIENA
$22K
T
EN
G EA
L
SO
Gross: 527’ Saleable: 439’ 1
Gross: 699’ Saleable: 591’
Renovated apartment with balcony, walking distance to DB plaza and pier. A must see!
1
海寧居 LA VISTA
$32K
2 1
尚堤 CHIANTI
$5.7M
5 3
Renovated, in good condition. Convenient for all bus routes and near schools.
1
觀濤樓 MARINE VIEW
朝暉路 HEADLAND
$11.5M
$6M
4 3
2
Fully renovated apartment with green views. Convenient for all amenities. Vacant sell.
倚濤軒 CRESTMONT
$130K/42M
$13.75M
Fantastic garden house offering spacious living and high ceilings. A must see!
倚濤軒 CRESTMONT
Gross: 903’ Saleable: 771’ 3
Fully furnished apartment with green views. Just bring a suitcase and you’ve moved in.
Gross: 2099’ Saleable: 2094’
Stunning reno town house, big terrace & sea views. Close to school.
霞暉閣 HAVEN
Gross: 796’ Saleable: 625’ 1
$65K
1
Gross: 1642’ Saleable: 1406’
Nicely renovated lowrise, walking distance to the pier with sea and mountain view.
2
Well appointed unit with good size living space. Balcony with great views and close to DB plaza and pier.
海蜂徑 SEABEE
Gross: 948’ Saleable: 850’ 3
Gross: 832’ Saleable: 600’ 2
$9.75M
Gross: 1298’ Saleable: 1108’ 3 2
Nicely renovated lowrise, equipped open kitchen, spacious living and sea views.
海蜂徑 SEABEE
$20.5M
T
EN
G EA
L
SO
Gross: 1486’ Saleable: 1206’ 3 2
High quality renovation throughout with panoramic sea views and in a tranquil location. For sale with tenancy.
Gross: 1642’ Saleable: 1406’
Gross: 1290’ Saleable: 1108’ 3 2
Beautifully renovated lowrise with great views. Open modern kitchen and in a tranquil location.
5 2
Beautifully renovated townhouse. Terrace w/ stunning sea views. Popular choice for investors. Vacant Sale!
Hong Kong’s First Exclusively Dedicated HairSPA. Do you want to improve the health of your hair and scalp with an exceptional therapeutic treatment? Equipped with state of the art technology to perfect your hair and scalp with clinically proven results.
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APRIL 2015 FEATURES
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30
PROFILE Meet Uncle Russ’ new operations manager, Scottie Callaghan
36
IN FOCUS A satirical look at how writers write
46
FAMILY MATTERS How to be a yummy mummy, or daddy
55
MONEY Peer-to-peer lending with DB resident Mukesh Bubna
58
ESCAPES Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
65
ACTION Why learning to swim is a must for kids
71
LIFESTYLE Time to decorate your doors
REGULARS
52
25
COMPETITIONS Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com
43
HEALTH Overcoming insomnia
52
TALKING POINTS Take to the trails with Sue Meldrum of At Home in DB
76
DB FACES Candid community snaps
88
OUT THERE Thoughts on island life
AGENDA 30
55
58
IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news
74
HK HAPPENINGS Find fun things to do across the harbour
78
CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, businesses and more
82
PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent
85
LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau
APRIL 2015
ON THE COVER
Readers with a feature story idea, please email rachel@baymedia.com.hk If you would like to publicise a local event, email hannah@baymedia.com.hk For general enquiries, email info@baymedia.com.hk To advertise, email lissa@baymedia.com.hk Around DB, Bay Media Group, 7E Glamour Court, Discovery Bay Call 2987 0577 | Fax 2987 0533
For the latest Around DB updates, find us on
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, tre kets thea t tic Win ncer play d a ! yd co rugb s an book se ed clas-bas DB
Hustle and heart set the Tennis Nations Cup apart!
an
ennis:VE! DBabT out the LO
It's all
e munity onlin Join your com
Publishers
in DB since
2002
Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com
Twitter and www.arounddb.com
YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY EVENTS!
Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk Managing editor Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk Production & operations manager Danielle Higgins danielle@baymedia.com.hk Advertising & sales manager Lissa Morris lissa@baymedia.com.hk Art direction Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk Editorial assistant Hannah Ball hannah@baymedia.com.hk Accounts Beatrice De Magistris accountant@baymedia.com.hk Photography Baljit Gidwani Illustration Fred Boot Rift Leschinsky Contributors this month Beverly Au Angie Bucu Josh Clery (intern) Jane Clyde Richard Cowley Joe Dobbs Peter Sherwood Koharu Urawa (intern) Kay West Cecilia Yee Emma Yong (intern) Disclaimer The views expressed in Around DB are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.
Find more photos of community events @ www.arounddb.com Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com, Emma Yong and Rosanna Sy-Siong
TENNIS NATIONS CUP Discovery Bay Recreation Club
The 22nd Tennis Nations Cup over the weekend of March 21 was a blast both on and off court! Congratulations to Team China Angry Goats, the winners of the Tennis Nations Cup; and to the runners-up Australia Grange. USA Lightning won the prize for the best-dressed on court, and the whole US contingent combined took home best-dressed at the after-party. For the full list of results, visit www.arounddb.com.
IN&AROUND DB
April 2015
9
IN&AROUND DB
Concert for MOON BEARS Discovery Bay International School
The annual Moon Bear Concert on March 14 saw great music performed by top DB acts. Funds raised went to Animals Asia Foundation, to support its work to help end bear-bile farming.
Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com
Lantau Calves DUATHLON Siena Park
More than 60 kids aged six to 14 ran and cycled around DB on March 7 in the Lantau Calves Duathlon, organised by Lantau Buffalos. For the full list of results, visit www.arounddb.com.
Photos by Koharu Urawa
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April 2015
OZZIE COZZIE NE W ARRI
I VA L S R R I VA L VA L S N E S NEW A W ARR
503 Tak Woo House, 1-3 Wo On Lane, Lan Kwai Fong, Central
2810 1356 www.ozziecozzieco.com
IN&AROUND DB
Festival of COLOUR Tai Pak Wan
The Indian community in DB gathered on the beach to celebrate Holi Day (the Festival of Colour) on March 8. A crowd of 150 threw water balloons at each other, and had their faces smeared with coloured powder, before enjoying a delicious Indian meal, singing and dancing!
Photos courtesy of Sandeep Jain
A DAY OF ROMANCE
Auberge Discovery Bay, DB North Plaza White Day Romance for Senior Couples held at Auberge Discovery Bay’s White Chapel on March 14 saw 22 senior couples, all married for no less than 30 years, celebrate their love in a group ceremony.
www.hkri.com
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April 2015
Triathlon
At Sky Blue Bikes we have a wide range of bikes and accessories suitable for triathlon.
Quintana Roo
From the company that invented the tri bike in 1989, and continues to be at the forefront of its development, we have a selection of their latest models and can help you choose and get properly fitted on one of these beauties.
Speedfil
Hydration is vital in Asia’s climate and Speedfil produces a range of products that will help keep you hydrated and on the go.
TORQ
Everything you need for training, recovery and race-day from this endurance sports nutrition company, plus we have the knowledge to advise you on their use.
BioRacer
We will soon be stocking triathlon gear from this respected Belgian manufacturer, give us a call and we’ll let you know when it arrives.
and more…
G/F 4 Bonham Strand West, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong (+852) 2545 2333 info@skybluebikes.com www.skybluebikes.com Monday-to-Saturday: Sundays:
11am-7.30pm 1pm-6pm
IN&AROUND DB
World DOWN SYNDROME DAY DB and Lantau schools
School kids from all over DB and Lantau wore colourful and mismatched socks on March 20, to raise awareness for the 10th World Down Syndrome Day (March 21).
Photos courtesy of DBIS and DMPS
is getting a makeover!
Nailed It will be renovating for 10 days from 30th March. We will be upgrading the whole look and feel of the salon, to create a comfortable, relaxing environment for you to return to. Please visit us when we reopen at 9am on April 10th. To make a booking during the renovation period,
please call 2987 2266. Follow us on Facebook for updates: Nailed It DB. Thank you to the DB community for your continuous support. We look forward to welcoming you back soon!
YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS!
IN&AROUND DB
WINNING WRITERS! Congratulations to the three finalists of Around DB’s Young Writer’s Competition 2015, Maria Andreeva, 13, Janica Bergas, 16, and Ruhi Kumar, 16. And to the three runners-up, Maria Bateman, 12, Victoria Cherrington, 18, and Haram Yoon, 14. To read the winning entries and vote for your favourite to win, visit the Around DB Facebook page from April 14 at 8am to April 19 at 6pm. The results will be posted on the Around DB Facebook page and www.arounddb.com on April 20; the winning article will be published in the May issue of Around DB.
EASTER FUN FOR DB KIDS! Throughout DB
• Happy Bunny Egg-Hunting Party – April 3, Discovery Bay Recreation Club. Call 2987 7381 • Kinder Joy Discovery Bay Easter Egg Hunt on the Beach + Fun Fair – April 3-4. Visit www.ddeck.com.hk • Easter Carnival – April 3-7, Café bord de Mer terrace, Auberge Discovery Bay. Call 2295 8288
• Treasure Island’s Spring Adventure Camp – April 6-10, Pui O. Kids aged eight to 16+ can take part in kayaking, coasteering, gorging, hiking, biking, fire-making and racing. www.treasureislandhk.com
April 3-7
April 5
• Hong Kong Scottish Easter Rugby Camp – April 7-8, Siena Pitch, DB North Plaza. Rugby training for kids aged six to 12. www.dbpirates.com www.aubergediscoverybay.com
Photo by Hannah Ball
In addition to their individual services, you can join DB Trinity Chapel, Discovery Bay Anglican Church and Discovery Bay International Community Church, as they celebrate Easter on the beach at 6am. Visit www.dbicc.org.
• Easter Adventurer’s Holiday Camp – April 7-10, Discoveryland, DB North Plaza. Kids aged five to eight can get active in Hong Kong’s largest indoor adventure playground. events@discoverylandhk.com • Movement Improvement and Mandarin for Munchkins Easter Camp - April 8-11, DB North Plaza. Kids aged three to eight can boost their Mandarin, learn to cook Chinese cuisine and take part in Zumba and yoga. www.movementimprovement.com.hk and www.mandarinformunchkins.com
BE A DB FAMILY Deadline: FARMER! April 8
ut
Througho April
Siena Park
TO ADOPT A PET through
Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS), call Jacqui Green on 9197 4371; for Hong Kong Paws Foundation (PAWS), call Kat Cheung on 9485 5188.
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6-11
April 4 COOL EASTER-TIME CAMPS
Throughout Lantau
EASTER SUNRISE CELEBRATION Tai Pak Wan
Find more information and events @ www.arounddb.com
April 2015
Photo by Hannah Ball
Sign up now for a place to grow your own vegetables, free of charge, at the DB Family Farm. Sponsored by Hong Kong Resort Company, you can rent a 1-metre by 3-metre plot from April 18 to August 18. To book your space, call 2238 3601.
IN&AROUND DB
Caissa CHESS TOURNAMENT
April 11
BMSE Community Centre, DB North Plaza
STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET
Sign up before April 9 for Caissa Hong Kong Chess Club’s Spring Open Blitz tournament, organised by 10-year DB resident David Garceran Nieuwenburg. Open to all ages, the tournament, running from 12pm to 5pm, sees participants each play nine, 20-minute games. To register, costing HK$250 for club members and HK$350 for non-members, visit www.caissahk.com.
across from Haven Court, 2pm to 4.45pm. For more information, call 2238 3617.
April 11
Photo by Hannah Ball
BOOK SIGNING
April 11 Head to Dymocks DB from 3pm to 5pm for the book signing of Bright Lights and White Nights. The new Hong Kong-based crime fiction novel written by British-born Andrew Carter features characters and scenes from DB. You can buy the book, priced at HK$120, from Dymocks DB or online at www.proversepublishing.com from April 9. To win a copy, turn to page 25.
Dymocks DB Plaza
l 12
Apri
SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET
in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm. Visit www.handmadehongkong.com.
DC BOOK WEEK Discovery College il 19
Apr
SHOW-OFF YOUR SPRING BONNET at
Bookazine’s Spring Hat Parade from 2pm to 4pm in DB North Plaza. Email enquiries@bookazine.com.hk.
24 l 20-
Apri
Students at DC are gearing up for their annual Book Week. Last year, the kids raised over HK$21,000 to fund a library in Tai Xi Teaching Spot, an elementary school in Guangdong Province, www.discovery.edu.hk which opened in September 2014. For more information, call DC on 3969 1000.
Be EPILEPSY AWARE!
Eighteen-year DB resident Shyamala Padmasola is moving on from Enlighten-Action for Epilepsy, the only epilepsy-focused charity in Hong Kong, after three-and-a-half years. “My final request to you would be to help spread the word,” she says. “If you can tell even 10 people over the next three months that epilepsy is not contagious and it is not a mental illness, you will be lending your support to all those with epilepsy who are forced to still remain silent.” To get involved, visit www.enlightenhk.org. Photo courtesy of Shyamala Padmasola April 2015
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IN&AROUND DB
EARTH DAY ON DB
Sam Pak Wan, DB North Plaza Beach
April 22
Bayview House of Children is celebrating Earth Day by encouraging students to walk to school and then take part in a beach clean-up from 9.30am until 11am. The event is co-organised by local non-profit Plastic Free Seas and around 100 parents and students (aged three to six) are expected to take part. To find out more, call Ramesha Backelandt on 6114 2436, or email ramesha@bayview.hk.
TOP DB PHOTOGRAPHER Polish photographer and 13-year DB resident, Marcin Klocek has been shortlisted in the Sony World Photography Awards (Professional Sport category). The winner, competing for the US$25,000 prize in this, the world’s biggest photography competition, will be announced on April 23. Marcin’s series Sweat and Blood, featuring sumo wrestlers in Tokyo, was selected from 173,444 images from 171 countries, the highest number of entries in the awards’ eight-year history. All the shortlisted images are set to be exhibited in London from April 24 to May 10, and published in the Sony World Photography Awards book. Sweat and Blood was photographed in the Miyagino sumo stable in Ryogoku, Tokyo. To see Marcin’s photographs, visit www.traveller.pl. 23 April
Photo courtesy of Bayview House of Children
CYCLE THROUGH CHINA Guangzhou, China
DB charity Life Cycle is organising a family-friendly cycling trip in Kaiping, Guangzhou. This fun, weekend ride, led by threeyear DB resident Steve Chitty, passes through lush farmland and character-filled villages. Cyclists choose to cover around 40 to 60 kilometres per day. For more information, email Steve at info@lifecycleasia.org. 4-26 April 2
Photo courtesy of Steve Chitty Photo by Marcin Klocek
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April 2 Photo by Marcin Klocek
Photo courtesy of Lauren Gordon
l 24 Apri
HEAR YOUNG YROCKERS performing
live at The Venue, DB North Plaza, from 5pm. To sign up to YRock, call Belinda Howard on 9464 8723, or visit www.yrock.com.hk.
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April 2015
ril 25
Ap
JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP at Nim
Shue Wan, organised by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, at 9am. Visit www.dbgreen.org.
See the HONG KONG WELSH MALE VOICE CHOIR! Discovery College
Don’t miss the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir performing in concert alongside DC’s Cobra Choir at the DC Performing Arts Theatre at 3pm. Purchase tickets, costing HK$100 for adults and HK$50 for kids, from www.ticketingover.com, or from the DC Parent Teacher Association shop. For more information, visit www.discovery.edu.hk/pta.
Chef Pour Toi
DB-based private catering service
Providing catering for a corporate or private cocktail reception, dinner party at home for friends, lavish buffet or barbeque, Chef Pour Toi guarantees an exquisite dining experience. Our dedicated chefs use only the freshest ingredients to turn food into art. We provide you with the knowledge to turn your event into a success, allowing you to focus on your guests while we do what we know best.
Contact Chef Pour Toi to get a quote for your tailor-made party. Email chef@chefpourtoi.com.
IN&AROUND DB
Bonaqua ACTION SPRINT Start: DB Plaza
There’s still time to register for the third race in Action Asia Events’ Bonaqua Action Sprint Adventure Run series. Starting at 9am, the 13-kilometre route sees up to 450 participants hike or run through streams, across coastlines and up the mountains of DB. Entry costs HK$380. To sign up, visit www.actionasiaevents.com.
SCHOOLING TALK
Friend us on Facebook for event reminders
OpenSpace, DB North Plaza
Get information on the admissions process, curriculums, what schools expect from a prospective student and how to prepare your child for university at the 9.30am talk being given by DB resident Anne Murphy, director of ITS Education Asia. To register, costing HK$150, email es@itseducation.asia. For more information, visit www.itseducation.asia.
il 26
Apr
il 30
Apr www.actionasiaevents.com
www.itseducation.asia
NEW IN DB FÊTE EVENT PLANNER Planning a birthday, wedding or event? Check out FÊTE event planner, introduced to us by the company’s chief event planner, Kim Williams-Waaijer, a DB resident of six months. Operating throughout Lantau and Hong Kong, FÊTE plans everything from destination weddings and milestone birthdays, to themed children’s parties and corporate events. Find out more at www.fete-eventplanner.com.
CENTER FOR PREGNANCY AND NEWBORN
Photo courtesy of Michelle Mouton
DC’S NEW HEAD OF PRIMARY Chris Bar, the former vice principal at Clearwater Bay School, is joining the community as the new head of primary at DC on April 13. In his role, Chris will lead and manage the growing primary sector at DC, which supports the education of nearly 700 students.
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April 2015
Photo by Hannah Ball
Photo courtesy of Kim Williams-Waaijer
Twenty-year DB resident and Sophrologist Aude Mahoudeau set up the Centre for Pregnancy and Newborn in Greenmont Court in February. Working with certified doula, Jeanne Hauguel and nurse AnneLaure Lemaitre, the centre provides advice and care for women before, during and after pregnancy. For more information, call 6256 0406.
ADVERTORIAL
THE PIANIST
“M
usic is for a lifetime and I want this to be my gift to all my students,” says Hong Kongborn Stephanie Fung Sin Tung, an accomplished concert pianist, accompanist and piano teacher who moved to DB with her husband, Tim and one-year-old son, Foster, in May 2014. Through her business, Piano Lessons DB, launched in February this year, Stephanie provides piano lessons for students of all ages and abilities – her youngest student is four and the oldest is 60. She also offers piano accompaniment for public performances, examinations and auditions.
The gift of music
Photo courtesy of Stephanie Fung Sin Tung
Having taught piano in Hong Kong for the past 15 years, Stephanie has plenty of practical advice for students, delivered both in person and on her website. Lessons, given on a grand piano in Stephanie’s DB studio, vary from 30 minutes for beginners, to an hour or more for higher levels. “Many of my students gain distinctions in their examinations,” she says. “They frequently win prizes at piano competitions and perform in recitals in Hong Kong, and some have even pursued successful careers in music.”
Stephanie encourages her students to choose a professional accompanist for examinations. “So many people assume that the accompanist is unimportant, but they couldn’t be more wrong! If the accompanist messes up, so will the student,” she says. “But if the accompanist plays well, it will bring out the best in the student’s performance, pushing it to a higher level.”
The making of a maestro Stephanie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Music (Hons) majoring in piano performance from Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) in 2004. In 2006, she gained a Professional Diploma in piano performance from the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA). Due to her outstanding performance at HKAPA, she received a full scholarship for her Master’s Degree at Sydney Conservatorium of Music (SCM), plus two additional scholarships from Sydney University and SCM. Stephanie credits three people with shaping her playing and the way she teaches piano today. “Firstly, my Grandmother encouraged me to do what I loved,” she says. “Secondly, my teacher at HKBU, Raymond Young
not only became a very good friend, his success and attitude inspired me to be the best I could possibly be. Finally, Gabriel Kwok, the Head of the Keyboard Department at HKAPA, took my musical knowledge to another level.” Over the years, Stephanie has performed as a solo pianist, orchestral pianist and oboist with the HKBU and HKAPA orchestras, the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and the Charity Orchestra in Sydney. In 2012, she co-founded the SMS Trio, a Hong Kong-based chamber music trio for piano, violin and French horn, and in October 2014 she acted as an adjudicator for the Hong Kong Students Open Music Competition. In September, she has been invited to play a piano concerto with the prestigious Classicarts Chamber Orchestra in Tokyo, Japan, where she will also run master classes. “I’m truly amazed and in awe of her incredible talent,” says husband Tim. “There is this presence of confidence in her style of playing the piano, and knowledge in her method of teaching that makes understanding music and learning music easy. I’d recommend her in a heartbeat.”
To find out more, visit www.pianolessonsdb.com or the Piano Lessons DB Facebook page. You can also Whatsapp or call 9632 9644, or email pianolessonsdb@gmail.com.
April 2015
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IN&AROUND DB
LANTAU EVENT HIGHLIGHTS DENTAL WORKSHOP FOR KIDS Bayside Dental, Caribbean Coast, Tung Chung
il 18
Apr
Photo by Terry Chow
LANTAU BEER DASH
Start: Ma Po Ping Prison, Tong Fuk Head to the beach to support the 350 runners taking part in the seventh Lantau International Beer Dash, starting at 10.30am. Participants dress up in whacky costumes and drink a different international beer at each of the five checkpoints along this fun 5-kilometre run. To find out more, email Lantaubeerdash09@live.com.
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH
For more Lantau events, read Life on Lantau magazine, check the Around DB Facebook page, or visit www.arounddb.com
Kids aged three to 10 can take part in Bayside Dental’s free Kids’ Dental Health Workshop, from 2.30pm to 4pm. They’ll have fun learning the do’s and don’ts of dental care, and they can expect snacks and drinks, plus giveaways from the clinic. To sign up, call 2185 6550. il 25 Apr
the owner of Chris Brazilian-born Christiny (Chris) Coelho, ng resident of eight Coelho Photography and a Tung Chu years talks shop
Photo courtesy of Bayside Dental
List your Lantau business for free @ www.arounddb.com
Tell us something about your business.
I launched Chris Coelho Photography in June 2009 and specialise in maternity, newborn and family photography. I seek to create beautiful images that can be treasured for a lifetime.
What is the secret of your success?
Photography has been my passion since I was a child. Over the years I have moved that passion to the front of my life and now I’m able to do what I love as a career. When taking photos, I like to go the extra mile to make mothers, babies and families feel as comfortable as possible. I also try and keep the photo styles unique and add an ounce of fun.
Do you have a funny on-the-job moment to share?
All I can say is that working with newborns, I have a Master’s Degree in poo and pee! In fact, I now carry a spare set of clothes just in case.
What inspires you?
That’s easy: the look on my clients’ faces when they see their photos for the first time. It’s also great to see my work up on the walls in people’s homes. Several photographers inspire me, but American-born Ana Brandt comes out tops. I have taken several courses with her and she truly has a gift for taking photos of babies.
Tell us three things you enjoy outside work.
When I have free time, I spend it with my family: My husband, Paulo, my two kids, Mariana and Pedro, and our very spoilt dog, Zara. I practise Muay Thai to relax and I enjoy going on photography tours around Hong Kong with a group of friends.
Photos courte
sy of Christiny
How do you see your business looking in five years’ time? Coelho
I hope to make Chris Coelho Photography the premier name in Hong Kong for maternity and newborn photography.
Call Chris Coelho Photography on 9258 0971, email chriscoelhophotography@gmail.com, or visit www.chriscoelhophotography.com.
OFFICE 3483 5003
www.homesolutions.hk
Sharon Riley Angie Lindsay Kim Jomar
9664 4749 6175 0155 3483 5003
(S-415475) (S-472175) (E-352962)
THE RED LANTERN
Genuine antiques, small pieces of delightful furniture from the late ‘Ching Dynasty’
NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG
23M BUTTERFLY CREST - CHEUNG SHA VILLA 1930’ Net + Rooftop + Terrace
Split level villa in a sought after gated estate. 3 Beds & 2.5 Baths inc 1 ensuite. Semi open dining, stylish cabinetry, lower level lounge opens onto manicured garden, decked patio, BBQ area. Private car park.
40K TONG FUK VILLAGE HOUSE 1800’ + 6000 Garden
Rare on market. 3 Beds & 3 Baths all ensuite. Large house w/ huge garden perfect for kids & pets. Gorgeous conservatory dining/living area & open plan kitchen w/ gas stove. Additional room on rooftop w/ paved terrace. Large private parking.
10.5M SHUI HAU VILLAGE HOUSE 2100’ + 700’ Rooftop
Unique western renovated house in quiet location. Currently tenanted. 3 Beds & 2.5 Baths inc 1 ensuite. Open plan kitchen w/ modern appliances inc wine fridge. Spacious living area w/ floor to ceiling windows spanning 3 floors. Green views & close to the beach.
Six minutes walk from the Mui Wo ferry to the direction of the Silvermine Beach Hotel.
TEL: 2984 0099 FAX: 2980 4833 EMAIL: glandam@netvigator.com
36K TONG FUK VILLAGE HOUSE 2100’ + 700’ Rooftop
Beautiful 3 Beds & 4 Baths home w/ private grassed area. Open kitchen, large living spaces, tiling & wooden flooring throughout. Gorgeous sea views from fantastic rooftop. Quality fittings in modern bathrooms. Maids quarters. Renters Dream!
10.9K 1/F HAM TIN VILLAGE HOUSE 700’ + Balcony
Making you feel at home is our business
Newly renovated in popular location. Bright, airy, 3 Beds & 1 Bath flat. Full balcony accessed from master bedroom and spacious living/dining. Green village views, a short walk from the beach and hiking trails.
Call us any time at 3483 5003 or Email PROPERTY@HOMESOLUTIONS.HK
C-044849
WWW.RUGBEES.HK
COMPETITIONS
Here’s your chance to win great prizes!
Win tickets to see THE SOUND OF MUSIC YOUR PRIZE: Lunchbox Theatrical Productions and David Atkins Enterprises are offering three readers a pair of A-reserve tickets (worth HK$795 per ticket) to see THE SOUND OF MUSIC on May 19 at 7.30pm.
Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions right here). You have until April 10 to submit your answers. Comment with your answer below, or email us at info@baymedia.com.hk. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer. Good luck!
Where can you see THE SOUND OF MUSIC?
What genre is Bright Lights and White Nights?
Photos courtesy of Andrew Carter Photo courtesy of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions
FIND THE ANSWER: Catch THE SOUND OF MUSIC, showing from May 15 to June 14 at the Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai. The show features a 30-strong international cast, plus local youngsters cast as six of the seven von Trapp children. For tickets starting at HK$395, visit www.hkticketing.com, or call 3128 8288.
Crime-fiction giveaway! YOUR PRIZE: Andrew Carter is offering four readers a copy of Bright Lights and White Nights (worth HK$120 each). FIND THE ANSWER: Check out the Hong Kongbased crime-fiction novel written by British-born Andrew Carter and published by DBers Gillian and Verner Bickley of Proverse Hong Kong. Set for release on April 18, the novel features characters and scenes from Discovery Bay. You can purchase the book, costing HK$120, from Dymocks DB, or online at www.proversepublishing.com.
See The Piano Guys YOUR PRIZE: PA House Limited is offering three readers a pair of A-reserve tickets (worth HK$1,080) per ticket) to see The Piano Guys at AsiaWorld-Expo on April 18 at 8pm. How did The Piano Guys get famous? Photo courtesy of Sony Music
FIND THE ANSWER: The Piano Guys rose to fame on YouTube, where they posted piano and cello renditions of popular songs and classical music. Their first four majorlabel albums The Piano Guys, The Piano Guys 2, A Family Christmas and Wonders each reached number one on the Billboard New Age Albums and Classical Albums charts.
Congratulations to last month’s winners Sharon Wong and Mina Dizdarevic for tickets to see The
SMURFS Live on Stage; Samantha Murray and Alex Jone for the Chef ’s Choice gift vouchers; Andy Green, Emma Wall and Zoe Davies for tickets to see CAVALIA; Rosine De Leacy, Kylie Horsfall, Kate Senior, Maria Devlin, Sophie Bonnin-Rocher and Uschi Mirus for the Art is a Verb giveaway. April 2015
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COMPETITIONS
Take home classes at RugBees YOUR PRIZE: RugBees is offering one reader five RugBees classes (for under 5’s only) at Discoveryland, any Thursday afternoon from April 8 to July 5, plus a RugBees’ kit, which includes a t-shirt, shorts, kitbag and activity bag (worth HK$1,500 in total). RugBees is for kids of what age? www.rugbees.hk
Win tickets to two show-stopping performances! YOUR PRIZE: ABA Productions is offering one reader three A-reserve tickets (worth HK$595 per ticket) to see Showstopper! The Improvised Musical at 7.45pm on May 7, and one reader three A-reserve tickets (worth HK$435 per ticket) to see The Fantastical Story Factory at 3pm on May 9.
FIND THE ANSWER: RugBees, Asia’s first dedicated rugby-play programme for children from walking to four years old, runs weekly Thursday afternoon classes at Discoveryland, DB North Plaza. Children are taught key motor skills geared towards rugby principles, such as catching, kicking, balance, coordination and teamwork. To find out more, visit www.rugbees.hk.
See the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir in DB YOUR PRIZE: Discovery College (DC) ParentTeacher Association is offering one reader four tickets, for two adults and two children (worth HK$300 in total), to see the show. Who is the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir performing with?
Where are the Showstoppers performing? Photo courtesy of ABA Productions
FIND THE ANSWER: Creating spontaneous musicals since 2008, the award-winning Showstoppers are performing two live shows at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai. At both Showstopper! The Improvised Musical, running May 6 to 10, and The Fantastical Story Factory, showing May 9 to 10, the action is made up on the spot entirely from audience suggestions. Purchase tickets for both shows at www.hkticketing.com.
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April 2015
Photo courtesy of Lauren Gordon
FIND THE ANSWER: Catch the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir performing alongside the DC Cobra Choir at 3pm on April 26 at the DC Performing Arts Theatre. Purchase tickets, costing HK$100 for adults and HK$50 for children, from www.ticketingover.com, or from the DC PTA shop. For more information, visit www.discovery.edu.hk/pta.
CROSS-BORDER PLANNING As part of our Legacy Planning Services, we offer Cross-Border Planning which includes mixed nationality spouses and overseas ownership of assets. Very often this area of planning comprises tax integration and/or mitigation. When we marry or move to another country or invest in an asset away from home, we rarely consider the overall tax status that we put ourselves in. Also, as expatriates, our lifestyle can change our children’s future path; their best friends at school may not be the same nationality, our friends are from different cultures and backgrounds and lot of us have lived in different countries throughout our career. Maybe we will go home, maybe not? I would like to explain this further through a recent meeting I conducted with a mixed nationality couple holding assets in multi-jurisdictions:- (names and details have been changed for confidentiality reasons.)
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
NAME
AGE
NATIONALITY
James Adams
36 (15 July 1979)
British
Carrie Adams
32 (18 September 1982)
American
JOB TITLE Chairman
INCOME HKD $2,000,000 p.a
ASSETS
HKD $ (GBP 1.00 : HK$ 12.00)
Home In HK London Property Cash in the Bank Stocks and Shares Savings Plan
$28,000,00.00 $12,000,000.00 $10,000,000.00 $75,000,000.00 $624,000.00
TOTAL ASSETS:
(joint) (joint) (joint) (James) (joint)
(Mortgage: $10,000,000.00)
HKD $125,624.00
Mortgage 10,000,000.00
Summary and Findings: James and Carrie are currently resident (3 years) in Hong Kong but have recently moved over from Britain which means that James is still a UK domiciled person. Being UK domiciled does not mean that he is liable for income taxes to UK whilst overseas but does mean that when he dies, his global assets are valued by HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) and anything over the nil rate band (NRB) which is currently GBP325,000, will be taxed at 40% when Carrie through Inheritance Tax (IHT). You can never remove your domicile of origin but can acquire a domicile of choice, which HMRC have to see is your ultimate intent. A Brit married to a Brit is exempt from any IHT so when one British spouse dies, the deceased spouses’ estate passes to the other tax-free. Any children they then have are taxed 40% on the value of the estate when the remaining spouse dies on a value of GBP650,000 as the two spouses both hold a NRB. Carrie, is not British, so not entirely exempt of IHT on James’ estate – she would also be given GBP325,000 as an allowance (NRB) so any children would get an IHT bill of 40% on anything over GBP650,000 of their joint estate. However, Carrie could claim UK domiciled and as long as she doesn’t earn any money in the UK during the first 3 years and survives until the end of the 4th year and James passes, she can “take” the whole estate from the UK and there would be no further liability to HMRC. If she does this though, under the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) as an American, she has an overall allowance of US$5,340,000 against death taxes CAT (Capital Acquisitions Tax). Anything over this value is also taxed at 40%. Current Tax Liability: UK IHT Value:
GBP 10,000,000.00
NRB:
GBP 650,000.00
Balance:
GBP 9,350,000.00
UK & US
US CAT:
USD 15,000,000.00
Allowance*
USD 5,340,000.00
Balance:
USD 9,660,000.00
TAX (40%) GBP 3,740,000.00 TAX (40%) USD 3,864,000.00 *The US CAT is calculated on a sliding scale so this interpretation is a very basic for illustration purposes. There is, fortunately, a double taxation agreement (DTA) between UK and USA and a formula set to pay the UK first, then the balance of the value of the estate payable to IRS.
Photos by Josh Clery and courtesy of Scottie Callaghan
PROFILE
30
Champion barista Scottie Callaghan, the new director of operations at Uncle Russ Coffee
April 2015
PROFILE
LIFE IN THE FAST LANE Scottie Callaghan, the new director of operations at Uncle Russ Coffee, enjoys an endorphin rush as much as a caffeine high but for all that he’s surprisingly mellow. Jane Clyde finds out what makes him tick
F
ifteen or so years ago, working as a barista in a coffee shop in Sydney, Scottie Callaghan had no idea he would soon be travelling the world. Since 2006, he’s visited 20 countries, and settled in Discovery Bay with his Australian wife Jemima and their three children, Peach, six, Esther, four, and Banjo, two. As the new director of operations at Uncle Russ Coffee, Scottie’s determined to bring DB’s favourite coffee shop to another level, and in his spare time he’s dedicated to something quite different – long-distance running.
World champion barista Talking to Scottie makes for a fastpaced introduction to a high-powered, coffee-orientated world that I for one was not previously aware of. A master roaster, he’s super enthusiastic about latte-art smack-down parties, barista jams and international coffee-making competitions, all of which he intends to bring to DB. Basically, he makes making a mochaccino macho. Working as a not-so-humble barista in a popular, boutique coffee shop
in Sydney – where even experienced coffee makers are trained for six months before they get to serve customers – provided Scottie with a world of possibilities. In 2006, his boss put his name down to represent Australia in the World Latte Art Championships in Bern, Switzerland. He ended up winning after giving up ‘work’ and practising for a month, going through 20 to 30 litres of milk a day. In subsequent years, he was twice voted the Barista Champion of Australia, placing third in the World Barista Championships in London in 2010. Taking a break from competing in 2008, Scottie wrote Café Republic of Australia: Sights, Stories and Flavours of Café Culture, with fellow Sydneysiders Hayden Wood and Sally Ashton. Read it to dust up on your coffee, tea and chocolate knowledge, while getting a hot dose of personal stories from 30-odd Australian café personalities.
and he now counts farmers in Sumatra, Columbia and Peru as friends. “The heart of it is the farm,” he says. “This is where coffee comes from; there’s no fridge and you’re living in shacks with dirt floors.” Describing a visit to a remote farm in San Martin, northern Peru in 2010, Scottie paints a memorable picture. “We drove to a market in Moyobamba to pick up supplies, a lovely market with incredible fresh produce,” he says. “And on the way back, my host, Dionicio Aguilar asked me to jump out of the truck and pick up a sack from a farmer. I looked inside and there was a donkey’s head – they use it to make soup for strength.” In 2013 at the same farm, Finca la Encanada, Scottie recalls seeing a cow killed to celebrate his arrival. “Dionicio asked me to kill it, which was a real honour but I couldn’t,” he says. “What amazed me though was that they used every bit of that cow – for food, for clothes, you name it.”
Book writing and prize-winning aside, the goal of most baristas, Scottie says, Marathon man is to go to the country of origin and Michael Kong’s go-to human-rights addicted as he islawyer to the world of visit the producers. This he has Vidler done,is HongAs April 2015
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PROFILE
specialty coffee, there’s room in Scottie’s life for a serious hobby, namely longdistance running. And he speaks of it with just as much evangelistic fervour. “You don’t have to be young to run, or get into running,” he says. “My first race was in 2012, a 10-kilometre sprint in Sydney. I finished in 52 minutes. Now, running at a comfortably hard pace, I could do it in 39 minutes.”
where he came first in his age category (men: 18-39), second for the men and third overall. “What this means is that a man older than me and a girl beat me,” he says with a typically selfeffacing grin.
Of course living in DB, Scottie is in the right place for trail running and he’s competed in both the Salomon LG70 (November, 2014), and the Northface 100 (December, 2014). He trains on the hills, mostly alone but sometimes with big name local runners like Nora Senn, Nikki Han and Katia Kucher.
Interestingly, Scottie doesn’t enter all the major local races. “It’s easy to get fatigued if you race all the time,” he says. “I prefer to take time out for recovery and to let the body rebuild itself.” Unlike some local athletes, who will enter a race purely as a training exercise, with no intention to win, one gets the feeling that Scottie will be in it to win it – as he was at the World Latte Art Championships in 2006 – or not at all.
Scottie’s biggest win to date was in the MSIG 88, also in December last year,
When we meet, Scottie is in training for the 100-kilometre TransLantau, held
on the weekend of March 13, in which he ultimately placed a superb fifth overall. To achieve this, he was running a minimum of 40 kilometres every Saturday, and tackling the Tigers Head Olympic Trail every other day. “The TransLantau is a night run covering most of Lantau from Mui Wo to Tigers Head, and all the way to South Lantau via Sunset Peak and Lantau Peak,” he explains. “Doing repeat-runs from DB to Tigers Head is a good way to train, that’s 4 kilometres for each round trip, with a 360-metre elevation. “I’m addicted to the endorphin rush – the runner’s high,” Scottie adds. “For hours afterwards, if you’ve really pushed yourself, you feel elated, hungry, thirsty, excited. Nowadays, just looking at the mountains, my heart beats faster.”
Scottie with wife Jemima and their children, Peach, Esther and Banjo
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April 2015
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PROFILE
The day job Low key and full of fun, as he tucks into an athlete’s power brunch of fruit, muesli and yoghurt, Scottie is a born raconteur. Should he ever tire of the coffee trade he might become a motivational speaker. He has me all excited about the idea of hitting the trails (at least for the duration of our chat) and I’d love to attend a latte-art smack-down party, maybe even try my hand at it.
Scottie in training on the Lantau Trails
Working at Uncle Russ, it’s clear Scottie is having a similar effect on his colleagues. “We focus on and care about quality and this involves training the staff,” he says. Find more local heroes
“Some of them have already been on visits to farms, to the countries of origin, and we are encouraging them to take diplomas in specialty coffee making.” Scottie hooked up with YB, the much-loved DB owner of Uncle Russ in October 2014, and he’s pledged to help make it the top coffee house in Hong Kong. It was clearly a fortuitous meeting, as the men are well-matched in terms of passion and personality. In June last year, YB was awarded Family-Friendly Employer 2013/2014, and Scottie definitely gets my vote for Hong Kong’s friendliest director of operations.
@ www.arounddb.com
Illustrations courtesy of www.wikimedia.com
IN FOCUS
36
April 2015
IN FOCUS
HOW
IT’S DONE This month you can vote for the winner of Around DB’s Young Writer’s Competition, and to get you up to speed, Peter Sherwood, one of this year’s mentors, takes a light-hearted look at how he writes
I
f ever you hear someone say, “I am often asked…” run and hide. Maybe they were asked once. More likely never. But I have been, and often. When I wrote a regular newspaper column they asked me how I wrote and where I got my ideas. Truth is, I don’t think I ever had an original idea. For satire, I needed only to acknowledge the world as a crazy and dangerous place. Then it became a straight reporting job.
Don’t be precious about writing Do I take notes? Almost never. Being slothfully lethargic, I absorb by osmosis and let stuff filter through the limestone crevices and fine sand of my twisted mind. It seems to work. (Though I wouldn’t recommend this course of action to everyone.) How do I remember things? I don’t. I somehow take in the insanity around me, then weeks, months or years later,
I spit it out on the page. Were the process of any value to the future of civilisation, I might be pushed to call it a miracle – or at least worthy of a Pulitzer Prize. Do I make a lasting impression? Hell, no. This is at best an ephemeral craft and, as they say, perhaps its usefulness is as a liner the next day for some kid’s hamster cage. But it remains a worry. Firstly, that irate and unreasonable readers might take a swing at me (it has happened) and mostly, as the late great James Cameron wrote, that they will “find out today that I’m a fraud”. Cameron rightly felt that all he’s giving is an opinion which, like my own, is no more valid than shrieks from a congress of baboons. Do I write to deadline? Of course. Firstly, I keep my promises. And secondly, it’s the only way to write. With two hours to compose something, anything… terror takes over. The words come quickly because they have to. And what I write isn’t
exactly quantum physics. Because, like I said, the planet is a madhouse. Tina Fey has something useful to say about getting the words down, and not being too precious about writing. “You have to try your hardest to be at the top of your game until the last possible second, and then you have to let it go. You can’t be that kid standing at the top of the waterslide, overthinking it. You have to let people see what you wrote.” Now, this is interesting, at least to me. Many years ago, there was a period of lunacy when I ran 5 kilometres a day. The endorphins sometimes kicked in and had me believing I could fly. The interesting part? The wonder drug would then take over and manufacture a 1,200-word piece as I ran, with no help from me. It would be perfect, from its original concept to every hilarious (to me) word. It was all there, I just had to type it. But – and it’s a big but – as April 2015
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IN FOCUS
soon as I sat my sweaty carcass down it disappeared; the idea, the title, everything evaporated faster than whisky on Burns Night.
Write the book you want to read Speed is everything. I write fast and tend not to look back. That was particularly true when a lawyer friend, Gary Alderdice and I wrote the Best Ever series. These books of unabashed schoolboy humour surprised everyone, including us, by selling tens of thousands worldwide. Like Toni Morrison says: “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” The formula was hardly sophisticated. I would go off to London and spend a few days raiding photo libraries and amassing historical stuff on the subject at hand and then, aided by a few cases of amber intoxicant from Australia, we would work through the night. We’d churn out mountains of madness in captions, photo bubbles and reworked historical drivel, zip it off to our brilliant designer/ cartoonist in Sydney, and bingo! From concept to bookshop could take as little as six weeks. Possibly a world record. Hampered only by demented and uproarious cackling (at our brilliant selves), we could assemble enough material in one raucous night for a trilogy. Next day we would paw through it, appalled by some of our own nonsense, and begin the culling process. “Write drunk and edit sober.” Ernest Hemingway got that right.
Ignore your critics This epic seven-tome burst of ridiculousness ended with an idea that was Gary’s: The World’s Best Horse Racing Book Ever. I had no interest in the gee-gees and convinced him to have his name alone on the cover, as a
38
April 2015
he winner Vote for t B’s Young D of Around mpetition o C Writer’s The kids of DB and Lantau aren’t suffering from writer’s block! From all the fabulous entries received, our mentors have chosen Maria Andreeva, 13, Janica Bergas, 16, and Ruhi Kumar, 16, as the three finalists in this year’s Around DB Young Writer’s Competition. Check the Around DB Facebook page between April 14 and April 19 to vote for your favourite to win!
be writers
Advice for wanna
“Notice how many of the Olympic athletes effusively thanked their mothers for their success? Writing is not figure skating or skiing. Your mother will not make you a writer. My advice to any young person who wants to write is: leave home.” – Paul Theroux “Read Becoming a Writer by Dorothea Brande. Then do what it says. You will particularly hate the advice to write first thing in the morning, but if you can manage it, it might well be the best thing you ever do for yourself.” – Hilary Mantel “Don’t labour over little cameo works in which every word is to be perfect. Technique holds a reader from sentence to sentence, but only content will stay in his mind.” – Joyce Carol Oates “I am always chilled and astonished by the would-be writers who admit, quite blithely, that they “don’t have time to read”. This is like a guy starting up Mount Everest saying that he didn’t have time to buy any rope or pitons.” – Stephen King “First rule: Do not use semicolons. They are transvestite hermaphrodites representing absolutely nothing. All they do is show you’ve been to college.” – Kurt Vonnegut “Writing books begins in talking about it, like most human projects, and in being close to those who have already done what you propose to do.” – Walter Kirn “Learn to trust our own judgment, learn inner independence, learn to trust that time will sort the good from the bad – including your own bad.” – Doris Lessing “Don’t write about Man, write about a man.” – E.B. White “Becoming a writer is about becoming conscious. When you’re conscious and writing from a place of insight and simplicity and real caring about the truth, you have the ability to throw the lights on for your reader.” – Anne Lamott
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IN FOCUS
Christmas gift for his kids. His spark of delight was soon rudely extinguished. Punch magazine got hold of a copy from our British publisher, and it landed in its time-honoured Christmas list of The Ten Worst Books of the Year. Of more than 23,000 books published in the English language in 1981, we (he) came in at number eight. The review read: “A tree is felled in the forests of Norway and is pulped into dross to make such things as The World’s Best Horse Racing Book Ever. It’s a pity the same fate didn’t befall the author.” But if it’s not controversial and a bit irritating and antagonistic, I’m not doing my job. Anne Rice helpfully Find more topical local topics
advises, “Ignore critics. Critics are a dime a dozen. Anybody can be a critic. Writers are priceless.” Somehow it seems to get done because I like to do it. That’s the key.
Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 16 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and he has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.
@ www.arounddb.com
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HEALTH
REST ASSURED
Insomnia: Hannah Ball consults Dr James Oliver of DB’s Island Health Family Practice for some solutions
D
o you ever lie awake unable to sleep at night? If you eventually fall asleep, do you wake too early, feeling drained and unable to face the day? If the answer is yes, you’re probably experiencing insomnia. So why do so many of us struggle to sleep? According to Dr James Oliver of Island Health Family Practice in DB, the most well recognised cause is, you guessed it, stress. Both acute insomnia, which lasts a few days, and chronic insomnia, which renders sufferers unable to get a good night’s sleep for a month or more, are often the result of long, demanding working hours, problems at home, or quite simply an overly busy lifestyle.
Illustration courtesy of www.becuo.com
“Interestingly, though it is not understood why, statistics show that women are more likely to have insomnia than men,” Dr Oliver says. Older people, those in pain and people suffering from depression are also particularly susceptible to sleeplessness.
lifestyle. “Our bodies like rhythm and our circadian rhythms vary throughout the day, causing us to feel sleepy at certain times and awake at others. Irregular habits disrupt that,” he explains. “Relaxation techniques can also be beneficial,” he adds. “Any technique that involves creating a relaxed environment (preferably internally and externally) and controlling your breathing is worth a try.” Insomniacs should also take a good look at their diet. Carbohydrates like rice and cereal will aid sleep, but if you’re after a healthy night-time snack, Dr Oliver recommends cherries. “They contain melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone,” he says.
Tried-and-tested remedies Interestingly, the old-wives’ tale about
Dr Oliver warns that certain medications can cause insomnia. “If you read the data sheet of almost any medicine, insomnia will be listed as a possible side effect,” he says. “Cold medications are the most common culprits. Certain anti-depressants can also cause wakefulness if taken at night, and several of the antihypertensives (used to treat high blood pressure) may also result in poor quality of sleep.”
Finding relief To combat the problem, Dr Oliver recommends sufferers regulate their Find more on health and wellbeing
warm milk making you feel sleepy holds true. “Milk contains tryptophan which is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter which can help with sleep,” Dr Oliver explains. “And insomniacs do need to cut out caffeine and alcohol. Although alcohol can make us feel sleepy initially, it can lead to excitation, poor sleep quality and tiredness in the morning.” There’s some truth too in the sedative power of counting sheep. If you find yourself unable to drop off, don’t just lie there fretting – think about something else, or get up and walk around for 10 minutes or so. And what about sleeping pills? “Although night sedation is very effective, the more recent medications don’t last very long and users tend not to be sedated in the morning, causing them to wake early,” Dr Oliver says. “The older medications, like benzodiazepines and sedating antihistamines, have a risk of morning sedation or hangover. In general, sedation should be used as little as possible and in the smallest dose that will work.” Warning that some sleeping pills are addictive and most tend to work less effectively the longer you use them, Dr Oliver concludes: “It is always better to try and identify the problem causing insomnia and act on that.” You can contact Dr James Oliver at Island Health Family Practice, DB on 2987 7575.
@ www.arounddb.com
April 2015
43
B U S I N E S S
C L A S S
Photos courtesy of Au Lait Maternity, A Mother’s Touch, Bumps to Babes and Mothers En Vogue
FAMILY MATTERS
46
YUMMY MUMMIES
(AND DADDIES) Becoming a parent is an exciting process, and you’ll want to look good while you’re at it. Kay West checks out everything from sexy swimwear to state-of-the-art strollers
New-look maternity wear includes sexy swimsuits, like the Rio tankini at Au Lait Maternity
April 2015
FAMILY MATTERS
T
he arrival of a new baby in the house comes with calls for a host of paraphernalia. Particularly for first-time parents, it can be hard to work out what are the absolute essentials and what are baby gimmicks that you can do without. Your best bet is to talk to friends who already have children. They’ll not only be able to advise you on the musthaves that are worth splashing out on, they might be able to give you a crib or stroller that their kids have outgrown. And while it may seem that the shops are full of cute products that you don’t really need, the good news is that smart design, technology and new materials have led to some innovations that help take the stress out of early parenthood.
Access all areas There has been a significant shift in approaches towards parenting in the last decade and while most of the products are aimed at women, there are more on the market that are suitable for new dads, too. But breastfeeding will always be done by women, and this is one of the areas of childrearing that has seen a significant change in attitudes. “In Hong Kong there are more and more people – including locals – who understand the value and benefits of breastfeeding and are open to it, and keen to try it,” says Vicki Soh, who opened Mothers En Vogue – a franchise of the 11-year-old Singapore brand – two years ago. Vicki says that despite the challenges of restrictive maternity-leave policies, she is seeing women spend more money on nursing clothes. “The fear of milk powder being tainted is just one of the factors convincing women to try breastfeeding and do it for longer,” she explains. “I definitely see mums putting in more effort to breastfeed.” And with the rise in breastfeeding, comes a whole new range of garments
Slings let baby snuggle with dad as well as mum, at A Mother’s Touch
designed to allow women to nurse their babies wherever they are. Mothers En Vogue has an X.tended range that can be worn through pregnancy, nursing and after nursing, rather than just for the first few months after birth, making for a more sound investment. Bestsellers include a jersey cardigan made of soft bamboo rayon knit, known as a Waterfall Wrap that can be draped over the baby and used as a nursing cover. “A lot of maternity and nursing wear is now made with eco-friendly fabrics like cotton, linen and bamboo. They are soft, breathable and absorbent, which is good for mums and babies and helps stop skin irritations,” says Vicki.
Dare to bear The increase in women, who are not only confident about bearing their baby bellies in public but also breastfeeding, has spawned a new-look range of maternity wear that includes sexy swimwear. “When I was pregnant six years ago, I struggled to find breastfeeding clothes let alone swimwear – it’s all very new. Breastfeeding has only recently become more prevalent and acceptable in public places,” says Joanna JonesTan, mother of two and founder of Au Lait, a specialist online boutique dedicated to mothers-to-be and breastfeeding mums. April 2015
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FAMILY MATTERS
Joanna says she reluctantly ended up buying expensive swimwear because there were no other options. Now there are. Cache Coeur swimwear – Rio, Calypso and Nairobi – is just one of the gorgeous options available at Au Lait. Joanna believes a tankini is the most flattering style of swimwear for expectant mothers – it can accommodate a large bump and still look good. And for especially confident women there are plenty of bikinis, too.
Have baby will travel Attitudes have also changed in recent years as to how to get out and about with your newborn and there is a move towards keeping a baby in close body contact with a mother or carer.
For cool gadgets, like the Motorola MBP27T baby monitor, try Bumps to Babes
“For the first two months of life, babies should be kept close to you, and one of my favourite products is the sling, which emulates the womb and keeps the baby close to mum,” says childbirth expert and South Lantau resident Liz Purnell-Webb, co-founder of A Mother’s Touch. “The nice thing about the sling is that dad can use it too, and baby can snuggle up close to him.” Soon-to-be-parents should also note that there are now 101 great rides available for baby. In fact, shopping for a stroller can be almost as complicated as shopping for a car, so you might leave it to papa. Babies “R” Us is of course a great one-stop-shop for big name, high-fashion prams and buggies, like Orbit, Graco, Bugaboo and Maclaren. The interesting thing about the latest strollers is that they are high tech, as well as good looking. Take the 4moms Origami power-folding stroller that collapses with a push of a button. It also has running lights, and an LCD screen that tells you how fast you’re going, how far you’ve walked and the temperature. You can even charge your phone with it. Or how about the BOB Revolution? It’s fitted with handactivated, rear drum brakes (perfect for conquering inclines), plus all-terrain tires and a swivelling front wheel.
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Stylish garments, like the Waterfall Wrap at Mothers En Vogue, help make breastfeeding a breeze
If versatility is your priority, check out the convertible UPPAbaby VISTA stroller system. Newborns ride in the detachable bassinet, infants are carried in an attachable ‘car seat’, and toddlers can sit every which way — forward, backward, upright or lying flat.
Gadgets to get dad going Baby-centric gadgets and devices are also booming, and as often as not these high-tech baby products are designed to promote peace of mind for parents.
Investigate kGoal, a new pelvic-floor fitness device, at A Mother’s Touch
A case in point is the Motorola MBP27T baby monitor, which you can pick up in Hong Kong’s other top onestop parenting shop, Bumps to Babes. It features a 2.4” colour screen, so you can see your baby even when you’re not in the same room; and you can pan, tilt and zoom the camera of the babymonitoring unit remotely. A two-way communication feature means you can speak to your baby, and there’s also a no-touch thermometer, allowing you to keep an eye on his/ her temperature, and monitor room temperature.
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FAMILY MATTERS
While hi-tech toys like these are bound to keep dads interested, Liz suggests – with a wink – that they might also want to get involved with kGoal, a new pelvic-floor fitness product she is launching this month. The interactive training system – a device that comes with a smartphone app – is designed for female pelvic-floor exercises. When the user squeezes her pelvic floor, the app registers the degree of exertion thus helping her train her muscles. “We are always trying to teach women the importance of good pelvicfloor muscles, but the exercises are something they often forget to do,” says Liz. “To make it into more of a game, you could get your husband to hold the app and tell you how much you have exercised.” Pretty sexy, huh?
Find it • A Mother’s Touch, www.amotherstouch.com.hk • Au Lait Maternity, www.aulaitmaternity.com • Babies “R” Us, www.babiesrus.com.hk • Bumps to Babes, www.bumpstobabes.com • Mothers En Vogue, www.mothersenvogue.com • Ozzie Cozzie, www.ozziecozzieco.com
Find more child-centric stories
For high-fashion, high-tech prams and buggies look to Babies “R” Us
@ www.arounddb.com
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TALKING POINTS
PACE YOURSELF Regular walking has definite health benefits and it can also provide a better workout than running. Time then to join all the other DBers walking the Lantau trails, says Beverly Au
At Home in DB hikers Merridy Smits, Emma Cameron, Elspeth Shaw, Tess Dolk, Zara Horner and Denise Boonstra
Photos courtesy of At Home in DB
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’ve been wearing a pedometer (step counter) for seven months now, and I genuinely believe that it has helped motivate me to get fit and lose weight. A total of 10,000 steps per day, equivalent to 8 kilometres, is recommended as the benchmark for an active lifestyle, and I find this pretty easy to achieve. Five days a week I walk to and from the ferry as part of my daily commute, and I make a point of getting out in my lunch hour and walking around for 30 minutes or so. Most days I reach my goal of 10,000 steps even if I have to pace a little around my flat April 2015
in the evenings, or wander down to the plaza. At the weekends, to really compete with myself, and up my step count, I’ve taken to walking the Lantau trails.
At home on the trails While you wouldn’t catch me racing round a track, and I’m no gym bunny, walking appeals because it doesn’t really feel like exercise. There are times when I’ll break a sweat and even feel the burn, but for the most part I’m in a tranquil headspace, focused on the people around me – or the glorious views.
Where you walk certainly makes a difference. Switch from pavements to grass and you’ll burn 50% more calories; walking uphill, on sand or rough trail burns twice as many calories as road walking. This can only be good news for all the keen hikers who have joined the trail-walking group Elspeth Shaw launched with Sue Meldrum of At Home in DB in March. According to Sue, people have signed up for a variety of reasons. “Firstly, hiking is a social form of exercise and a great way to get to know people,” she says. “Secondly, having an experienced guide takes the stress out of
TALKING POINTS
undertaking a solo hike, plus you learn about the history of a particular trail and the villages and places you pass through. People also enjoy escaping their daily routine and taking time out for themselves.” Another draw is that anyone of any fitness level can hike, and it contributes to an overall feeling of wellness. “Hiking can certainly help you tone and lose weight but it also benefits the mind and soul,” says Sue. “It releases stress, helps reduce insomnia and builds a positive sense of achievement as you conquer longer and more difficult trails.”
Stage 7 of the Lantau Trail looking down to Fan Lau Tung Wan
Walk, don’t run The real benefit of walking is that mile for mile, it burns more fat than running. Even after two weeks of daily, 10-minute walks, you should start to see big changes in your shape. More good news: walking trims the hips, thighs and bottom better and quicker than running. The walking movement lengthens and strengthens muscles in the lower body, and helps you lose weight in all the right places. Walkers are toned rather than sinewy, and ladies you won’t lose weight around the bust. With the right technique, walking can also give the abdominal muscles a good workout. Imagine you have a glass of water on each hip, so you don’t swing them. This naturally engages and strengthens the core muscles. The aim is to walk steadily at a pace that leaves you a little breathless when talking. “New hikers need to be realistic about their fitness level and choose hikes which are in keeping with their physical limits,” says Sue. “Newbies should start with a short, easy hike and ensure they pace themselves, settling into a natural stride and rhythm.”
The climb up Lantau Peak – Hong Kong’s second tallest!
Tess Dolk, Merridy Smits, Denise Boonstra, Nikki Han, Elspeth Shaw and Sue Meldrum
Three top DB hikes 1 Climb 465-metre Tigers Head (from Golf Course Road in DB), then it’s all downhill to Mui Wo. On a clear day at the summit, you can see for miles across Tung Chung, Hong Kong Island and the New Territories. 2 The trail from behind Neo Horizon along the ridge to Sunny Bay features hidden valleys and a 360º view of DB. You’ll glimpse the airport and Tuen Mun, and further along there’s a fantastic bird’s-eye view of Hong Kong Disneyland. 3 Hiking from La Serene to the Trappist Monastery is challenging but you are rewarded with lovely views of Peng Chau and Hong Kong Island.
To join At Home in DB’s free hiking group, visit www.athomeindb.com. As for technique, most of us don’t walk as efficiently or as safely as we could. Make sure that, as each foot lands, you transfer weight down the outside of the sole to the ball. Don’t lift the back foot until the big toe of the front one has landed. Keep the
Find more clubs and activities
leg muscles relaxed, avoid locking the knees, and make sure your arms are bent at 90º, swinging them close to the body. Shoulders should be loose, hands gently cupped and eyes looking straight ahead – unless of course, you get distracted by the view.
@ www.arounddb.com
April 2015
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MONEY MATTERS
FINANCIAL NETWORKING
Illustration courtesy of www.ideastream.org, photo by Josh Clery
Are you looking to lend and borrow for better income at better rates? Joe Dobbs finds out how
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either a borrower nor a lender be.” Polonius says that in Hamlet to his college-bound son Laertes, and on the surface it’s sound advice. But should we really adopt this as a maxim to live by?
For most of us, borrowing and lending money is a fact of life. That there will be times when we decide to borrow money – and lend it – is as true now as it was in Elizabethan times. The question is how are we best advised to go about it.
Since Polonius is one of the most consistently misguided characters in all of Shakespeare – he even puts himself in a position where he is killed (by Hamlet) by mistake – the answer is probably not.
Conventional options Let’s say that you have a bit of money – as little as HK$100,000 – that you want to grow. You could put it in a bank but with the interest rate at 0.001% and inflation
at 3.5%, you’ll find that after a year, rather than making a profit, your money will in fact be worth less than it is now. So you might decide to take a risk, and invest in equities or bonds. But the prospect can be daunting due to the volatility of the markets. Even HSBC stocks, which everybody loves to buy, are currently down 10% year on year. And it’s the same story with bonds, since returns are likely to be as low as inflation. April 2015
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MONEY MATTERS What would you say then to the prospect of getting a return of up to 15% by lending directly to your peers? Sound interesting? Then check out Monexo Innovations, the online marketplace for peer-to peer lending, set up in July last year by DB resident and former banker Mukesh Bubna.
Peer-to-peer lending Monexo helps lenders beat inflation as well as diversify beyond equities and bonds in return for monthly repayments of principal and interest. “You go online and choose who you want to lend to,” Mukesh explains. “You’re diversifying among many borrowers, so risks are lower, added to which Monexo manages the process for you. Online transactions are secured by https technology and a one-time password (OTP) on your mobile phone.” Sit down with Mukesh in the plaza and you’ll find he’s a very likeable chap, but of course you’ll want to know more before signing over your hard-won savings. Do your due diligence and Monexo’s partners will fill you with confidence. Robertsons Solicitors has drafted all the legal paperwork, Hong Kong Trust Company holds the money not yet lent, and Thomson Reuters’ Accelus software is used to screen everyone involved. Another obvious plus is that Mukesh worked in Citibank’s Asian division in India, Singapore and Hong Kong since 1994. “Monexo is a new venture but I have the skill set to help people make money,” he says with a smile. “I’m not looking to open a Michelinstar restaurant!” The big thing here is that Mukesh, who has one son, Kabir, 16, has chosen to leave a relatively cushy, corporate position in the banking world to launch Monexo. Introducing a start-up like this has to be seen as a brave move, particularly in this part of the world where banks control the borrowing/ lending market.
DB resident Mukesh Bubna is bringing peer-to-peer lending to Hong Kong
“I’m passionate about coming up with new solutions, and creating a better tomorrow,” Mukesh says. “Everything starts with a dream. As John Lennon so eloquently put it, “A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.”
Advantages for borrowers Monexo may be new to Hong Kong but peer-to-peer lending is proven globally. Take Zopa, which has been big in the UK for some 10 years. In 2014 the UK government lent its people GBP100 million through Zopa. Likewise, Lending Club in the US, which formed in 2007, is going strong and now lends US$1 billion plus every quarter. Mukesh has built Monexo along similar lines, to give those with cash flow (rental income) the opportunity to borrow. “People borrow money because they have a need,” he says. “If
April 2015
You can borrow up to 48 times your monthly rental income at as little as 7% interest through Monexo, as long as you are a Hong Kong Permanent ID holder. “This is a cheap and transparent option when you consider that you get 34% interest on a credit card, and 15% to 30% on a second mortgage,” Mukesh says. “Go to a money lender and you’ll be charged no less than 20%.” As Mukesh explains it, peer-to-peer lending is a truly innovative solution to real-life financial problems. “The wheel of possibility eggs us on to question the status quo and do things differently,” he says. “We are creating a place where we can exceed expectations, and where we don’t just satisfy people, we wow them.”
DB resident Mukesh Bubna is the founder and CEO of Monexo Innovations, the first company in Hong Kong to facilitate direct peerto-peer lending. You can email him at mukesh.bubna@monexo.co, or visit www.monexo.co.
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you want to break out, for instance start a new business, you have to take on some risk.”
@ www.arounddb.com
ESCAPES
ON THE ROOF OF
AFRICA
How would it feel to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest free-standing mountain in the world? Cecilia Yee shares the experience of a lifetime
Photos courtesy of Cecilia Yee
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never thought I’d go all the way to Africa to climb a mountain, least of all the highest freestanding mountain in the world. But I’m a sucker for challenges: Mount Kilimanjaro – 5,895 metres above sea level. Annually, approximately 15,000 people attempt to reach the summit, around 40% make it. I started planning the hike, which I made last December with five girlfriends, about a year in advance. Instead of just climbing the mountain, we decided to do it for charity. Leading April 2015
up to our climb, we organised a couple of fundraising events for two Philippine charities, St Rita Orphanage and Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation, and we received a tremendous amount of support from the community. In preparation for the climb, we trained hard. We hiked, ran and climbed endless steps… but I don’t think any kind of training can prepare you fully for the experience. We arrived in Africa hugely excited, yet scared.
Machame Gate to Shira 2 Camp After the long journey to the town of Moshi in Tanzania, we were briefed about the mountain and given an itinerary. We came away reassured that as long as we listened to the G Adventures’ guides, they’d get us to the top. We woke early the next day to begin the journey of a lifetime. Heading out on the Machame Route, considered by many to be the most scenic path to the summit (Uhuru Peak), we were
ESCAPES
Cecilia (front) with climbing buddies Ellen, Amanda, Jo and Lauren
beyond excited. The path would lead us through magnificent rainforests to Shira Plateau, a collapsed volcanic crater that stretches 13 kilometres. We were promised amazing scenery beneath the glaciated precipices of Kilimanjaro’s southern ice fields before summiting from Barafu Camp. The first day of our hike was spent in Kilimanjaro’s gorgeous rainforests. Early on it began to rain, making the trail soggy and muddy, but this didn’t dampen our spirits. We finished the 18-kilometre trek in five hours, and
quickly settled in at Machame Camp. It was incredible how quickly our porters got to the campsite. We set out first, but when we got there, our tents were already pitched and everything was in order. An afternoon snack of popcorn, biscuits and hot chocolate followed. And for dinner, we were served a full meal – soup, rice and hot stew. Day two started early as we climbed steeply through sparsely vegetated heathland. I started to feel the altitude,
and ran out of breath pretty quickly. As we climbed over massive rocks and boulders, the rain continued. It took us five hours to finish the 9-kilometre hike, which included a gentle ascent through alpine moorland, dotted with flowering plants. We reached Shira 2 Camp just after noon, very ready for an afternoon nap.
Trekking to Base Camp On day three, the rain continued to pour as we climbed through rocky April 2015
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ESCAPES
and barren terrain. Atop Lava Tower (4,630 metres), it was so cold that the rain turned to snow. From there, a 600-metre path descended steeply into the Great Barranco Valley, amidst giant, yellow groundsels and hanging glaciers. We had fantastic views of the Western Breach, a gap formed by lava flow on the western outer rim of Uhuru Peak.
me Route The Macha
One of the benefits of the Machame Route is that the downhill sections provide you with extra time to acclimatise. We felt the benefit as we lost altitude heading down to Barranco Camp. On day four, which is billed as the ‘fun hike’, we tackled the Great Barranco Wall – an imposing rock face that takes about one-and-a-half hours to scale. Here at the base of Heim Glacier, the skies finally cleared and we watched as the highest mountain in Africa slowly revealed itself. Just like that, we experienced the magic of Kilimanjaro.
Bondin g at K
Our trail continued down into the Karanga Valley, where we climbed another imposing wall and crossed alpine desert to get to the campsite. I had to stop every few steps to catch my breath; the air was thinning, and I was feeling increasingly nervous about summit night.
w n a narro Perched o
aranga Camp
ase Camp ridge at B
This was the first day that the sun shone on us, and we were just thrilled to be right where we were. The five of us had truly bonded by the time we reached Karanga Camp. Fully connected to each other and totally disconnected from the world, all we had to focus on was reaching the top of the mountain. We played music, our guides and porters sang to us, we had fun! On day five, the shortest hike of the trip had us climbing through a dry and empty landscape to Barafu Camp – Kilimanjaro Base Camp. As we camped on the narrow, exposed ridge, harsh winds blew down from the peak. We spent all afternoon and much of the evening sleeping, in preparation for our trek to the summit.
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Majestic Mount Kilimanjaro from the
Summit night The guides woke us up at 11pm. When I got out of the tent, I was greeted by the full moon in all its glory. I didn’t
foothills
need to use a torch. The temperature had dropped to -20ºC. We began the final ascent passing between imposing glaciers on rough
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ESCAPES
The descent
scree. For the first time, I was hit hard by altitude sickness. As I struggled for breath, the guide told me to continue walking. He could tell that I was fit enough to continue, and he waited patiently for me while I stopped every 10 steps or so to catch my breath. After six long hours, we finally reached Stella Point, the rim of the main crater (5,686 metres). We took in the glorious sunrise, before continuing up to Uhuru Peak. Every step of this one-hour ascent was a challenge. At 5,895 metres, Uhuru (meaning freedom in Swahili) is the highest point in Africa.
Bone tired, unable to breathe properly yet beyond elated, we started our descent back to Barafu Camp. After a short rest, we continued down the rock and scree path through moorland and rainforest, before eventually arriving at Mweka Camp. Here I was overjoyed simply to find I could breathe.
It was a long journey for all of us – training, fundraising, freaking out – and by far the toughest challenge I’ve faced in my life. But the experience is unforgettable, not just because of the successful climb, but also because of the friendships I forged with my fellow climbers, Ellen Cannon, Amanda Hageman, Jo Knight, Alexa Reason and Lauren Anderson.
Day seven: the final stretch. We woke up full of oxygen, ready for the short hike down to Mweka Gate, and the long flight home.
And the icing on the cake? We were able to raise over HK$150,000 to help children and families in the Philippines.
Flight Centre Hong Kong specialises in first-class yet affordable flights and holiday packages. To book your African getaway, give the expat travel consultants a call on 2830 2776, visit www.flightcentre.com.hk, or drop by the retail stores in Central or Happy Valley.
Due to the altitude, we were only allowed to stay at the summit for a couple of minutes. How can I begin to explain what it feels like to stand on the roof of Africa?
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KIPMOVIN
fitness and running class for kids Available in Discovery Bay and Tung Chung. Suitable for all fitness levels. Ages 5 years and older For details please contact thomas@kipmovin.com www.kipmovin.com Like us on facebook to keep up-to-date with KIPMOVIN Tel: +852 61803256
ACTION
TAKE THE
Photos courtesy of DASC, ESF Sharks and Harry Wright International
PLUNGE Unlike many animals, humans are not born with the ability to swim; it’s something we have to learn. But why is it important to master swimming at a young age? Richard Cowley reports Swim class with coach Marvin Johnson, Harry Wright International’s aquatic manager for DB
April 2015
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ACTION
T
he obvious reason for kids to learn to swim is to acquire the ability to survive in water. Additionally of course, swim lessons teach children lifesaving skills. From how to enter the water to pool safety rules, kids learn techniques that may one day save a life. Swimming is an essential life skill for children to learn. Not only does it teach them how to be safe and have fun in the water, it also plays an important role in their social and physical development. Provided they can swim, kids can get involved in countless water-based activities with friends. Surfing, waterskiing and even fishing are difficult for non-swimmers to enjoy.
(ESF) Sharks, at Discovery College (DC), are top local choices. Both clubs’ infant aquatic programmes begin with parent-andchild lessons; having mum or dad in the water helps children relax. Parents are taught how to submerge and release their babies safely and happily, and how to introduce the basics of kicking and pulling. The lessons allow mum and dad to spend quality time with their children, and help tiny tots develop social and motor skills, and build confidence.
Many young children are terrified of getting their faces wet or putting their heads underwater, and would likely panic if they fell into the water. So, parent-assisted classes start with the basics, like blowing bubbles in the water, to get children used to having their faces near water. Swim lessons can also, of course, help kids build confidence as they grow. The learn-to-swim programmes at ESF Sharks and Harry Wright International provide a safe, positive and structured environment for beginners. The
Health benefits Also of course, all that splashing around is great exercise. Swimming requires kids to use many of the muscles in their bodies; it improves strength and flexibility, increases stamina and even improves balance and posture. An excellent cardiovascular workout that promotes heart and lung health, swimming also puts less strain on joints and connective tissues than other forms of exercise. Water provides a natural resistance (over ten times that of the air), which means swimming will get kids fit – but it’s not draining on the body. All this makes swimming a proven way to prevent childhood obesity, something that has been linked to juvenile diabetes. An hour of vigorous swimming will burn up to 650 calories (more than walking or biking). Swimming can also improve overall mood, and help combat depression.
Water babies If you are looking for parent-andinfant classes, for babies as young as four months, Harry Wright International, based at Club Siena, and English School Foundation
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April 2015
ESF Sharks’ swim squads compete locally and internationally
SWIMMING LESSONS FOR AGES 4 MONTHS AND ABOVE Open to ESF & Non ESF Students
SWIMMING LESSONS AT DISCOVERY COLLEGE Learn to swim or improve your child's current skills in the Discovery College pool. With professional coaches and individualised attention, the ESF Sharks Swimming programme provides a positive and fun swimming experience for all levels. • • •
First Aid, CPR, AED, Junior Lifeguard and Triathlon Training also offered.
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Our programme is growing at Discovery College and we look forward to welcoming you to the pool. Contact us to meet our new Swimming Programme Manager, Vincent Alacon and arrange for a free swimming assessment.
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ACTION
modern curricular is based on goals and attainment tasks. Lessons are often taught in stages, so with each round a child learns new skills and then graduates to the next level.
Stronger swimmers The purpose of swim class isn’t to turn your child into the next Olivier Baillet of Beyond the Line, who swam around Lantau with fellow DBer Bruce Pye late last year. But who knows? Classes could spur a love of swimming in your child and open up opportunities for him or her to swim competitively. Both the Harry Wright International and ESF Sharks swim squads are affiliated to the Hong Kong Amateur Swimming Association (HKASA) and kids regularly take part in local and international competitions. Coach Marvin Johnson, Harry Wright International’s aquatic manager for DB, says, “The emphasis of our squad programme is to introduce young swimmers to the training fundamentals and skill developments of competitive swimming. We pay a lot of attention to developing all four strokes and work on technique. The coaches aim to develop good communication and relationships with swimmers.”
At a parent-and-infant class with Harry Wright International
Amateur meets Run as a non-profit community club, staffed entirely by parent volunteers, Discovery Amateur Swimming Club (DASC) has been holding club nights at the DC pool since March 2009. Members aged six to 14 years get to compete in up to three races at each meet. The idea is that kids have fun and improve their technique, DASC swimmers Nathan Adcock, Daniel Bruce, whilst competing. “At the club Gabe Kennish and William Walsh nights children participate in friendly races,” committee member Amanda Walsh says. “The emphasis is firmly on ‘swimming against yourself ’, that is, improving against your previous times. We encourage the children to challenge themselves to improve their swimming, and they are rewarded through a points scoring system.”
The ESF Sharks’ advanced programmes offer an equally competitive pathway for talented, young enthusiasts. “The focus of the new programme is on refining strokes and methods, while constantly challenging swimmers,” says Vincent Alarcon the newly appointed ESF Sharks’ swimming programme manager.
non-profit Plastic Free Seas, include a 45-kilometre swim around Manhattan Island, which he completed in less than nine hours.
We’ll give the last word to Ironman Olivier, who coaches adult swimmers, cyclists, runners and triathletes looking to get to the next level. Endurance swims under Olivier’s belt, aside from the 75-kilometre Lantau swim for DB
“Endurance sport has always been part of my life, and I grew up swimming,” Olivier says. “Not only does it teach children discipline, it also teaches them about dedication and how to work hard to achieve their goals.”
Find more clubs and activities
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April 2015
Find it • Beyond the Line, www.facebook.com/ beyondthelinecoaching • Discovery Amateur Swimming, www.dbswimclub.com • ESF Sharks, www.esf.org.hk • Harry Wright International, www.harrywright.com.hk
@ www.arounddb.com
From Infants...
To Beginners...
Indoor heated pools
Aberdeen Marina Club
Convenient locations
Club Siena Discovery Bay
Professional instruction
Kellett School Kowloon Bay
Perfect safety record since est. 1975
South China Athletic Association
Structured and progressive programme
West Island School
To Champions...
Learn to Swim with Harry Wright International. (+852) 2575 6279 swimming@harrywright.com.hk www.harrywright.com.hk
Tuuci Around DB Magazine_AD_op.pdf 3 12/3/15 12:38 pm
LIFESTYLE
I
n spite of their significance and potential, doors are often overlooked in modern, decorative schemes. We plan the walls and floors first, followed by the furnishings, and then we unthinkingly paint the doors white, cream or brown – and leave them to merge into the background. This is not to say that in many circumstances, white, cream or brown is not exactly the right colour for a door. The point is that whatever treatment you decide upon, your choice should be a positive one, not simply a case of making do. Consider that interior doors make a big impact in our homes, especially open-plan ones in which rooms lead off the living-dining area. Even in the smallest DB flat, you’ll likely have two bedroom doors, a bathroom door and (if you’re lucky) a door opening onto the balcony. So it’s worth giving their decoration a little thought.
Photos courtesy of Jane Clyde
Free to enter Ready-made doors come in innumerable shapes, styles and finishes. Flush doors (a relatively modern invention) are flat on both sides; panelled doors have recessed sections often edged with moulding. Two or six panels if Georgian or colonial, three if early 20th Century.
OPEN SESAME!
Glass doors are becoming standard as they allow spaces to stretch out and interconnect with no visible barrier. Similarly, sliding and folding doors are popular and useful, particularly in space-constrained rooms.
Functional and clean lined, doors have a lot going for them. Why not give their design some thought and make them a pleasure to look at, suggests Jane Clyde
White-glossing all your doors and windows makes for a consistent look but it isn’t the only way to go. You can use coloured paint in any number of ways to draw a door into a decorative scheme. In fact, if you want to make a feature of your doors, you can cover them with materials as diverse as fabric and sheet metal. Note that a statement door will need to be painted or treated differently
1
on each side, corresponding to the decoration of the rooms or areas it links. Remember too, doors, opening onto a balcony or garden, will almost always need to be finished differently inside and out. With external doors, you obviously need to take sound proofing, privacy and security into account. Here, many of us DBers are at an advantage, as we
in fact have two entrance doors, if you include the heavy, steel outer one. For consistency’s sake, when designing your entrance, choose a front door that’s a more elaborate version of your interior doors, smartly fitted with bolts and locks, a spy hole, bell and flat number. This is the first impression visitors get of your home, so make sure it’s a good one! April 2015
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LIFESTYLE
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Consider that interior doors make a big impact in our homes – especially open-plan ones in which rooms lead off the living-dining area
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5 April 2015
LIFESTYLE
Get the look! 1 Wooden doors don’t have to be painted to look good. Stripped woodwork in pristine condition can be left bare, or it can be varnished, oiled or waxed to reveal the natural beauty of the grain. For high contrast in a minimal whitewashed space, stain the doors dark brown (almost black), in a rustic or classically driven scheme bleach them blonde.
2 A statement door, painted in a solid colour, adds interest to a room. Use your chosen colour in the surrounding scheme, in the soft furnishings and accessories, to create a coordinated look. Remember too, that you can panel-up nondescript plywood doors, at a fraction of the cost of replacing them, by adding decorative mouldings. Panelled doors provide the opportunity to have even more fun with colour. Paint recessed panels a shade darker than the surrounding mouldings to create additional depth and contrast.
3 White-glossed doors match the window frames and help create a cohesive looking scheme. You can use them to create contrast against coloured walls, or to combine discreetly with whitewashed walls. Be sure to paint the door frames to match. In a space with many doors leading off it, keeping all the doors identical ensures that the decor looks well-planned.
4 Concealed doors perform their functional purpose,
without attracting attention to themselves. And of course they add an element of surprise when open. You can secrete them behind swing-out bookcases, or fit them flush against the wall. If you opt for the latter, dress them with special touchcontrol opening mechanisms, so that no hardware is visible and they form a natural extension of the walls.
5 A feature door reveals your personality, as well as what’s
concealed within. You can dress it in almost anything, with wallpaper and fabric offering 101 possibilities. For a fast textile cover-up, simply face the door with a single piece of fabric, such as baize, suede, or leather. Padding gives an even more generous, luxurious look and works well for bedroom doors. For a really dramatic, industrial-style finish, face a door with sheet metal, such as zinc or stainless steel.
6 Sliding or folding glass doors stretch out space and
encourage the flow of natural light. They work equally well as the entry point to balconies, or as room dividers. If privacy is paramount (for instance for a bathroom door) opt for frosted, coloured or patterned glass. Embossed or etched glass fits the bill, whether it’s used to cover the whole surface or in panel form.
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Find more on stylish living
@ www.arounddb.com
April 2015
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HK HAPPENINGS
ugh Thro il 19 Apr
10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH! Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com
www.hkyaf.com
Art walk for THE OCEAN Stanley Plaza, Stanley
Ocean Art Walk 2015, co-organised by Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation and Ocean Recovery Alliance, features a series of art exhibitions, dance performances, movie marathons (including a free screening of Emmy Award-winning documentary Chasing Ice) and workshops, each encouraging an appreciation of Hong Kong waters. Admission is free. To find out more, visit www.hkyaf.com, or call 2877 2779.
THE INEVITABLE
Ben Brown Fine Arts Hong Kong, Central
gh Throu 9 2 April
Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai
-12
April 10
www.benbrownfinearts.com
Internationally acclaimed, Hong Kong-based, British artist Simon Birch is best known for his kinetic oil-on-canvas pieces, which reveal the angst and energy of his sitters. A committed figurative painter, Simon has also made a name for himself with large-scale, multimedia installations. He has shifted to a more abstract approach in his recent paintings, on show in The Inevitable. To find out more, visit www.benbrownfinearts.com.
Hong Kong’s first locally produced, multi-media, circus-dance spectacle, put on by Aerial Arts Academy and the physical theatre troupe Viva Circus, is set to wow audiences. Aerialists, acrobats, ballerinas, dancers, jugglers, mimes and spinners tell the post-apocalyptic story of a lost boy, as he tries to get back to civilisation. For tickets, starting at HK$188, visit www.hkticketing.com.
LE SPA BY JAN
ed!
n Just ope
CONCERT IN THE DARK April 16-19 Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Kowloon Bay Concert in the Dark, the world’s first concert held in complete darkness, is being put on by over 40 people, all of whom are visually impaired. Organised by Dialogue Experience, the event features eight musical concerts, each bringing out the spirit of inclusion. Net proceeds go to Dialogue in the Dark (HK) Foundation. For more information, visit www.dialogue-experience. com.hk. For tickets, starting at HK$480 for those aged 12 and above, visit www.hkticketing.com.
Queen’s Road Central
www.lespa.hk
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Secrets of THE LOST CIRCUS
April 2015
This luxury getaway in the heart of town offers everything from mani-pedis and waxing, to body scrubs, facials, massages and body contouring. Try its algae-based Thalgo skincare range; nonanimal-based Springfields massage oils; and vegan nail-and-body SpaRitual products. For the full spa menu, visit www.lespa.hk; to make an appointment, call 2815 3308.
www.dialogue-expereince.com.hk
HK HAPPENINGS
Friend us on Facebook for event reminders www. floridatheatre.com
THE PIANO GUYS
April 18
AsiaWorld-Expo, Chek Lap Kok
What started as a few fun piano and cello renditions on YouTube has led to worldwide fame for American musicians, Jon Schmidt, Steven Sharp Nelson, Paul Anderson and Al van der Beek, aka The Piano Guys. With five albums, millions of online views and a recording contract with Sony under their belt, you won’t want to miss their Hong Kong debut at 8pm. For tickets, starting at HK$480, visit www.hkticketing.com; to win tickets, turn to page 25.
Catch chart-topping English singer/ songwriter, Charli XCX performing live at 7.30pm. Not only did she collaborate with Australian rapper Iggy Azalea last year on the hit song, Fancy, her feel-good tune Boom Clap featured on the soundtrack of the 2014 teen flick, The Fault in Our Stars. For tickets, costing HK$490, visit www.ticketflap.com.
April
20
www.nypost.com
Cyberport, Pokfulam
• Tickets start at just HK$100 for a weekday pass, and kids under 12 get in for free
2-23
il 2 Apr
www.gala.de
BACKSTREET’S BACK! Kowloonbay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Kowloon Bay
Grab your tickets fast for the Backstreet Boys, performing live in Hong Kong at 8pm as part of the In A World Like This tour. Garnering endless huge hits, including I Want It That Way, Everybody (Backstreet’s Back) and As Long As You Love Me, the multi award-winning 90s band has sold 130-million records worldwide. For tickets, starting at HK$888, visit www.hkticketing.com.
Mega Ice HOCKEY 5’S Mega Ice, Kowloon Bay
3 -May 6 1 l i r Ap • Back for the second time, Shakespeare in the Port brings affordable, accessible Shakespeare to Hong Kong
CHARLI XCX LIVE!
Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Kowloon Bay
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PORT
• The event features 21 main stage performances and seven special events • Top billing goes to a physical theatre production of The Tempest; a Cantonese version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with bilingual narration; and an English production of King Lear • Highlights include the 24-Hour Play Festival starting at 6pm on April 25, and an outdoor showing of Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 movie, Romeo + Juliet on April 29 at 7.30pm • Buy tickets at www.ticketflap.com; go to www.hongkongshakes.com to find out more
April 27-May 2 & May 4-9
Don’t miss the largest ice-hockey tournament in Asia, the Mega Ice Hockey 5’s. Attracting 100 leading teams and 1,000 players from around the world, the event begins with the youth divisions on April 27; the adult divisions start on May 4. Don’t forget to show your support for DB-based ice-hockey team, the DBees (www.dbeeshockey. com) who are entering three youth teams. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.megaice.com.hk, or call 2709 4023.
www.ishot.hk
Photo by Aaron Michelson
April 2015
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DB FACES
COMMUNITY SNAPS!
Email your photos for DB Faces to info@baymedia.com.hk. Around DB accepts no liability for the photos sent
Who do you know? Find more familiar faces @ www.arounddb.com.
COMPETITION
Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com
Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar!
A
B
Y
C
Congratulations to last month’s winner Julia Lai! Please contact our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.
our challenge this month is to identify which of the photos above is the exact copy of a photograph featured elsewhere in this issue of Around DB. You need to list the page number the photo appears on, as well as which of the three photos is the exact copy. You can contact us via the competitions link at www.arounddb.com, by clicking on one of the QR Codes, or by emailing info@baymedia.com.hk by April 10. This is your chance to win a complimentary coffee from Uncle Russ, or a beer from The Pier Bar every day for a week. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer. Good luck!
FINANCIAL PLANNING ASK THE EXPERT HELLO RESIDENTS OF DB, LANTAU AND THE REST OF HONG KONG! It’s time to consult THE EXPERT about your financial planning!
Who am I? KayeKaye Khemlani (PIBA No. 0032-009006), a native English-speaking insurance advisor, with a strong presence in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong.
My thoughts I understand we all go through different stages of life and so do our insurance needs. But the mandatory insurances required by the Hong Kong Government (including domestichelper insurance and automobile coverage), are always worth due diligence. Your home is your castle, so why not protect it from the elements, drunk guests, clumsy kids and thieves? A home package can do all that and more! Whether you rent or own your home, it’s better to be safe than sorry! Homeowners insurance is a security blanket. It is designed to protect you in the event of a catastrophe. Therefore, when you are choosing a policy, don’t always look to save money – the best deal may cost you more in the long run. But be sure to shop around. When you receive your annual renewal statement, check to see if you can snag a better deal elsewhere. Consider whether you have too much coverage. It’s common for policies to contain inflation-protection provisions that automatically increase your coverage amount. You may want to adjust your coverage amount to a more realistic figure.
My offer: I can do a comparison shop for you free of charge, to ensure that you have made the right choice, and check that you have the right product at the right price.
View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com
WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am
CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME & RDB TEENS
Pastor James Buckner Tel: 2987 7061 www.dbicc.org
HOME & REPAIRS
View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com COMMUNITY
FINANCE & INSURANCE
THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS (MORMONS)
AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS
Sunday 1pm. 4/F Discovery College. Visitors welcome. Call 9029 1251
EMPLOYMENT
Need to lodge your Australian tax return? If you are an expat or collect rental from Australian property, you must lodge an annual return. Let us do it for you here in HK. Contact Dwight Stuchbery, Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, dwight@smats.net, or visit www.smats.net
HOME SERVICES
PETS
EXPERT MOVER
THE PLACE WHERE THE PETS GO - PETCODB
• Mover • Storage • Handyman Competitive rates. Professional quality service. Contact 2566 4799, sales@expertmover.hk. Visit www.expertmover.hk
Grooming & Pet Care Services. Trust us to provide loving & safe care for the ones you love! Contact 2914 0382, info@petcodb.com. Visit www.petcodb.com
DOG SERVICES
EUROPEAN GOURMET FOOD IMPORTER
Seeks part-time corporate sales staff, who have good connections in local companies’ HR departments. • Work from home • Flexible hours • HK$40 per hour plus commission Email your CV to info@sinoherofoods.com
MOVEMENT IMPROVEMENT DB NORTH PLAZA We are looking for a part-time book keeper/ accounts administrator with accounts experience & qualifications (UK - AAT qualification level or equivalent), plus experience using accounting software. Working 4.5 hours per week, ideally Friday afternoons. Fair hourly rate is boosted by free fitness classes! Email your CV & salary expectations to Jacqui Sellar, Jacqui@ movementimprovement.com.hk
HEALTH & WELLBEING
HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY
Quit smoking quickly. Divorce/ Post-Divorce Coaching. Resolve: • Fear of Flying/ Public Speaking • Overeating • Couples’ Conflicts • Career & Command-Training Stress • Anger Management • Phobias • Nail Biting • Insomnia • Exam Jitters Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk
KIDS
EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP
A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play. Activities to stimulate all areas of development. Come & look at our facilities. Classes for kids from 20 months to 4 years. Morning & afternoon sessions. Call 9511 2107, or visit www.earlyadventures.net
Looking for a place to stay?
www.arounddb.com
Home boarding, behaviour modification, Tui Na Massage & grooming. Reliable & honest. 100% safety record over the past 11 years. Contact Dave Chan on 9872 5439, www.quoquoclub.com
RETAIL ABBELIO WINES
Great value! High scoring! Wines from around the world! Free delivery & special offer for Discovery Bay residents. For details, visit http://abw.hk/db, or call 3170 8458
DB MARINA CLUB DEBENTURES
Do you have a C Class or B Class Debenture you are not using? Or one that is expiring, or coming up for extension? Lifestyle Homes has interested buyers. To find out more, contact info@lifestylehomes.com.hk
DB-BASED REALTOR SEEKS EAA-LICENSED AGENTS
Must have a good command of spoken & written English & Cantonese, an extra language is an advantage. Strong communication & interpersonal skills, mature outgoing personality, proactive, hardworking & detail oriented. Attractive remuneration package for the right candidates. Email your full CV to info@lifestylehomes.com.hk
Looking for a business?
www.arounddb.com
SINCE 1997
OUR SERVICES ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A MESSENGER?
Michael, an Indian HK resident living on Lantau, seeks post of delivery person for mail/ documents/ small packages. Full- or part-time. Call 9145 6731
DOG & CAT GROOMING ( BY APPOINTMENT ) PET FOOD & ACCESSORIES SUPPLIES CAT SITTING SERVICE FREE DAILY DELIVERY Ground floor 11B, Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay (next to Island Vet) Tel: 2987 0428 / Fax : 2914 1313 / E-mail : petsgallerydb@yahoo.com.hk Open from 9:00 am till 7:30 pm (Mon - Sun)
April 2015
79
View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com
Alcoholics Anonymous THE MIRA HOTEL, TST air! ping Aff
nd Shop
A Gra
11AM TO 8PM y nt b eve An
For bookings & information, contact us on+852 2333 4421 bazaar@printplus.com.hk | www.KowloonBazaar.com
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April 2015
If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can help. No dues or fees. 24 hour hotline: 9073 6922 Lantau hotline: 5668 2667 www.aa-hk.org
View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com SERVICES ACCOUNTING & COMPANY SERVICES
Prepare management accounts, weekly, monthly or yearly. Whatsapp 9673 7730. Email et@ponyservices.com
NOTARY SERVICES
Now available in DB at affordable rates. For enquiries, 9143 0799, notary@hpi.com.hk
TRAVEL CONCORDE TRAVEL
Leisure Travel and Cruise specialists since 1978. Call 2526 3391, or visit www.concorde-travel.com. Licence No 350343
Birth & Postnatal Support Antenatal Classes Breastfeeding support Placenta remedies
TUITION & COURSES
DOULA
Trust in yourself when it matters...
CHINESE (MANDARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH
Ellie says come visit Mypetshop in the North Plaza. Shop G09-92 Siena Ave. DB North Plaza Tel: 2987 8873 Open Daily 10am – 7:30pm
© Cyril Almeras
Personal Professional Tutoring Service. • Curriculum: HSK, IB, GCSE, SAT • ESF & all international schools, Year 1 to 13 • For students & adults (homework/ exams/ business) • Mother-tongue Chinese tutors from the PRC (Levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) • Mathematics tutors (UK B SC) • Native English tutors. (MA in Education, specialising in Early Childhood Stage) Contact 9107 5655, graciasx@hotmail.com
Jeanne Hauguel
6496 4318 | jeanne@doulabirthstory.com | www.doulabirthstory.com
Importing all natural, handmade products from small British producers
MANDARIN CHINESE CLASSROOM
In the Greens. Lessons for adults & children, individually & in small groups. Any level/ time/ purpose. Call 6071 9643, or visit http://tclearning.sinacool.com
FULLY QUALIFIED SCIENCE TEACHER
With Honours Bachelors Degree. Offering tutoring for KS3 & IGCSE Science (all disciplines) and IB/A’ Levels Physics. Contact 6079 2052, mr.m.walker@yahoo.com.uk
•Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents • Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients • English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Russian, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counsellors
www.resourcecounselling.org Serving the community over 40 years A Member Agency of the Community Chest
GMT FOODS Tel: +852 6647 2292 email: gillian@gmtfoodshk.com www.gmtfoodshk.com www.facebook.com/gmtfoods twitter@gillian_GMT
est. 2009
Deadline for May issue CLASSIFIEDS
April 10 April 2015
81
Find short-term rentals @ www.arounddb.com PROPERTY DB
PROPERTY DB
MODERN 1-BEDROOM FLAT
DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS
Spacious open layout. Quiet, high floor. Fully equipped kitchen. Shower. Washer/ dryer. English movies & news, & wi-fi. Just unpack! Competitively priced. Contact 6680 2007, greenmountain123@gmail.com
Fully furnished 1-2-bed apartments with beautiful decor, wi-fi & broadband. Well-equipped kitchen, luxurious bedding, weekly cleaning service. Contact Annie on 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com
2-BED APARTMENT At Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished. Call 9108 5525
Search 1000s of DB property listings!
www.arounddb.com NEW 1-BED APARTMENT Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment in Greendale Court. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525
CHERISH COURT SERVICED APARTMENTS SIENA 2 Quiet with sea views, near Club Siena & tunnel. Fully furnished, with bed linen & kitchenware. 55” TVs, wi-fi, Blu-ray home theatre, washer/ drier. Short or long lease. Contact 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com
Fully furnished, 2-bedroom flat with wi-fi & Now TV. Full sea view & Disneyland-firework view. Photos available. Contact Jacqueline 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com
COSY NEW 1 BEDROOM FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view. Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished. Call Tiareti on 9732 8985
Cosy & brand-new 1-bedroom flat with sea view, convenient location, fully furnished with bed linen, kitchenware, washer/ drier & English & Chinese TV channels. Free cleaning once every 3 days upon request. Minimum stay 3 nights. Contact Mary on 9726 6219, marydbay@gmail.com
PROPERTY OVERSEAS
LUXURY 2-BED Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony. Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Charles on 6140 7971, charles@headlandhomes.hk. Contact Katie on 9150 7319, katie@headlandhomes.hk
SLEEPS 4 Bright, fully furnished flat, sleeps 4. Fully equipped kitchen, plus wi-fi & broadband. Towels & linens provided. Minimum stay 1 month. Email dbstay4@yahoo.com
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April 2015
AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY Everything you need to know about buying a property in Australia. Information on property markets, taxation, finance, migration & legal. Free online at www.aussieproperty.com
PHUKET VILLA SHORT-TERM RENT Deluxe, spacious 4-bedroom villa, with ensuite bathrooms & private pool. Wireless internet access, sala, bar & BBQ area. Fully equipped kitchen with laundry area. Close to Laguna. Contact Roenel on 9050 4772, atsea@netvigator.com
Greenland Pest Control Tailored Pest Control Solutions for Rodent, Cockroaches, Fleas, Mosquitoes, Termites, Ants, Ticks etc‌ For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or May 9774 3554 Email: greenlandpest@outlook.com
It is all about the right equipment
GMT Foods is a DB based Importer of award winning, handmade and all natural fine foods from small British producers.
Products include: • York Preserves (chutneys & double fruit preserves) Available at Oliver’s, Market Place by Jasons’, Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. in Mui Wo. • The Mercer’s of Yorkshire (chutneys, conserves and dessert sauces) Available at Oliver’s, DB North Plaza Wellcome Store and Market Place by Jasons’. Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. in Mui Wo. • Godminster (organic vintage cheddar) Available at the next HMHK Market in Main Plaza. For further details contact: Gillian Thompson, Gillian@ yorkpreserves.com, www.facebook.com/gmtfoods, twitter @Gillian_GMT.
GIVING LIFE SHOULDN’T BE SO DEADLY Ramatoulaye, who lives in Burkina Faso, was about to give birth to her fourth child, but the boatman was nowhere to be found. Unable to get to the health centre across the river, she gave birth alone on the river banks. Maternal health is a human right — join Amnesty International to defend human rights for women like Ramatoulaye. Learn more at www.amnesty.org.hk.
© Anna Kari
Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com TUNG CHUNG
SOUTH LANTAU
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
AQ Prettiness Jumping Castles Shoesee Foldable
FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS
9527 6202 9662 1747 5502 6128 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS
360° Sports Bar & Restaurant Airport Izakaya Andante Asian Taste Chef’s Express Deli Viet Bistro Delifrance Café Aficionado China Coast Bar & Grill Dragon Inn Erawan Essence Federal Palace Restaurant Mansarover Indian Cuisine McDonald’s Delivery Moccato Olea Pizza Hut Regala Café & Dessert Bar Rouge Skycity Bistro Spaghetti House Starz Wine Bar Zentro Garden
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Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bombay Café Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear Como Lake Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar High Tide Restaurant La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Lantau Taste Restaurant Maverick’s Restaurant, Pui O Rome Restaurant Sun Fat Restaurant Tak Chai Kee Seafood Taco Loco The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep
Dalcroze Impact Fitness Jill Marshall Pilates South Lantau Paddle Club Tony’s Salon
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HOME & REPAIRS
Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering
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Novotel Citygate Regal Airport Hotel Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott
3602 8888 2286 8888 3969 1888 LEARNING CENTRES
Clement Art School Discovery Mind International Play Centre Greenfield International Kindergarten Kidznjoy Kindermusik Little Academy Salala Kids House Soundwaves English Education Centre Sun Island Education Foundation Sunshine House International Preschool Tung Chung Catholic School (Yat Tung) Tung Yan Day Nursery YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College
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SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT
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UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES
Tung Chung Ambulance Depot Tung Chung Fire Station Tung Chung Police Station
2984 0222 2984 1847 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 5465 5511 3489 1282 5402 4154 2984 7982 2984 0418 2984 1265 9022 5737 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2980 2699
HEALTH & WELLBEING
HEALTH & WELLBEING
9 Dragons Fitness Asian Hairdressers Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre Island Veterinary Services Ltd Tung Chung Vet Centre Tung Chung Maternal & Child Health Centre Quality Health Dental Quality Health Medical Raffles Medical
LANTAU NUMBERS
2988 8282 2988 1809 3661 1694
Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering Mantech Electrical Wah Sing AV Company
2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 2819 6823 2984 0587 HOTELS
Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel
2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES
Buddhist Fat Ho College Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten
2985 5150 2984 0302 2980 3676 3689 6709 2984 0006
PROPERTY AGENCIES
Home Solutions Real Estate Proper Trip Real Estate
3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL
Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Friendly Bike Shop Lantau Base Camp Red Hall Chinese Antiques Renge House (clothes & accessories) The Red Lantern ZenvarA
2134 1234 2984 2278 5463 6060 2988 1368 2984 0080 2984 0099 9586 3459
SERVICES & OTHERS
Hop Sing Automobile Jumping Castles SPCA Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio)
2984 1410 9662 1747 2984 0060 9025 3949 3114 0030 6351 8923 TRANSPORTATION
Lee Hing Loong Hon Kee Transportation Company Lantau Tours New Lantau Bus Company Sun Rising Moving Company
2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848 2984 7918
Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com
DB NUMBERS
LEARNING CENTRES
COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza Beautiful Gate BMSE, North Plaza Catholic Church (Trinity Chapel) DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Health Cares IMI (Natural Medicine Clinic), North Plaza Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza
2987 0855 2323 0738 2259 3422 2988 1515 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 2666 6183 2834 7276 2537 1087 2987 7575 2987 9003 9029 1251 2259 3422
Island Dance A dance school offering ISTD Freestyle, Hip Hop & Tap & RAD Ballet classes from Monday to Saturday at DBRC & Club Siena. All ages welcome. 2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk
A fun place for little ones to play and have loads of fun, fun, fun! 9327 0507 littleexplorers@team-fear.com
2812 2660 2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098
7-Eleven Convenience Store Fusion by PARKnSHOP Just Green Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome, North Plaza
2987 4401 2987 7486 2448 1180 2987 4089 2947 9092
Playgroup run by Montessori-trained teacher. From 18 months to 4 years. 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com
2233 3000 2682 1210 2987 1851
International Canadian Law Firm in DB North Plaza offering you customised legal services on the many aspects of your personal and professional life 2116 1333 www.harveylawcorporation.com
Grooming & Pet Services With Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love 2914 0382 info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com Amity Shoes Care Gillian florist, North Plaza Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services
FINANCIAL SERVICES HSBC Travelex Money Exchange, North Plaza Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd
The Best Travel Agency in DB 2987 2626 cas@appletravel.com
PetcoDB
Playtime Kids DB
DAILY NECESSITIES
Apple Travel
Harvey Law Group
Little Explorers
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES BtoKidz, North Plaza In Style Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic Start-rite
OTHER SERVICES
Previously Midget Gems Kids Club www.positivestepsplaygroup.com positivestepsplaygroup@gmail.com
5369 2329 2529 8256 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151
PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS
HOME Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre May’s furniture & curtain design Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Tactful Design & Build Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre
2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 0061 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2987 0222 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2886 8555 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428
Let us take the stress out of homework Homework Club and Private Tutoring, conveniently located. 9522 3297 info@wiseowl.com.hk www.wiseowl.com.hk
Woodentots is a Montessori playgroup providing a caring and nurturing environment in the Plaza. Run by a qualified Montessori teacher for children aged 2 1/2 - 5 years. 6108 9131 woodentotsdb@gmail.com
LEARNING CENTRES
Musical Drama – Acting – Musical Theatre Tues & Wed classes at Discovery College 4 to 12 yrs - 2 fully costumed performances a year 8122 9475 admin@actingantics.com www.actingantics.com
Brightsparks Playgroup Fun, safe and interactive environment for your children. 9632 4287
Dumper Trucks & Daisies A Montessori-based playgroup programme that focuses on the growth and development of the whole child. From 16 months to 4.5 years old 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com www.dumpertrucksanddaisies.com
Future Stars Dance Academy
Dance classes based on the ISTD requirements conducted in a fun, disciplined and safe environment. 2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com
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April 2015
Art is a Verb, North Plaza Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Learning Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Kumon, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza Links Parenting, North Plaza Mandarin for Munchkins, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten, North Plaza Treasure House
2682 8099 6114 2436 2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2914 2202 2987 1201 2987 4338 9511 2107 9380 5771 2416 3088 2459 8808 8191 0813 6114 2436 2480 3909 2987 8608 2987 0813 2987 8143 2987 4217
MULTIMEDIA Bookazine, North Plaza Dymocks & Gallery Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd Fun to Read, North Plaza Movieland Pen’n Paper P-Solution
2987 1373 2987 8494 2914 2378 3105 3588 2987 7111 2987 8898 2987 1777
AQUABLU
Boat/ Yacht Sales & Brokerage - Berths/ Debentures - Marine Insurance - Marine Problems/ Resolution 6017 7802 Oceanblu@netvigator.com
Lifestyle Homes & Boats 2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Centaline Property Agency EPS Property Consultants Headland Homes Hong Kong Boats & Homes Kingsland DB Land Master Property Okay.com Savills Hong Kong
2987 8484 2987 2023 2987 2088 6055 0146 2987 2987 2987 6238 2102 0888 2987 1919
FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS
% Arabica Coffee Roaster & Farm DB North Plaza 2885 1312 info@arabica.hk www.arabica.hk 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Berliner Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Chef’s Choice, North Plaza Ebeneezer’s Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay
Around DB’s May issue is coming out May 1
2987 2298 2295 8288 2987 8203 2987 0966 2987 2848 2172 6111 2987 0036 2987 2915 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855
Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Kiraku Tei Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery Life Café McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Nevale Kitchen, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Salt & Pepper Solera Subway Super Super The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zaks
2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 2886 2987 0767 2987 1829 2591 1422 2987 8280 2987 1337 2172 7099 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2336 8001 2555 0772 2914 0005 2914 1308 2777 8411 2682 0068 2682 8110 2987 6232
SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT
The HIT Room Bodypump, Grit Strength, Boxing, Core, TRX, High Intensity Training. Located at North Plaza 6621 7410 www.thehitroom.com.hk info@thehitroom.com.hk
Tinytots A professional sports play program specially designed for children 16 months - 5 years of age. 34887724 info@tinytots.com.hk www.tinytots.com.hk Club Siena DBees Ice Hockey DB Pirates Ltd. Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club
SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT
2987 7382 6473 4277 2517 8248 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381
CAISSA Chess Club HK The Club gets together at the DB North Plaza Community Center 9681 2896 contact@caissahk.com www.caissahk.com
UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES Discovery Bay Medical Services Discovery Bay Office Centre Discovery Bay Police Discovery Bay Post Office Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Report Room San Hing Gas Co Typhoon Signal Enquiries Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department
2525 6798 2238 3388 2987 4052 2987 6046 2435 4511 2988 2369 2987 6738 2835 1473 2811 0788 2824 5000
WELLBEING .
A Mother’s Touch
Specialists in Pregnancy & Newborn Care Tel: 2851 9654 clientservices@amotherstouch.com.hk www.amotherstouch.com.hk
Child & Family Development Practice
TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES
Developing potential, exploring possibilities 2914 2223 www.childdevelopment.com.hk info@childdevelopement.com.hk
Bayside Aquatics “Everyone is a swimmer” Affordable Swimwear, training equipment & accessories. 9725 3142 www.baysideaquatics.hk
DB NUMBERS
My Health Coach Lulu
FÊTE Event Planners
Bespoke event planning services, from coordination to execution, making your event stand out. 5199 9743 www.fete-eventplanner.com Babyland Bo Bo House Discoveryland Toysland
2997 8080 2987 4230 2441 0098 2987 7859
TRANSPORT SERVICES
Improve your life balance through health and self awareness. I am able to offer a bespoke program just for you. 9154 1570 lulu@myhealthcoachlulu.com www.myhealthcoachlulu.com
M Spa Provides door-to-door treatment service. Conveniently located in the Plaza. Reflexology, massage, pedicure/manicure. 2987 0614
DARUMA SPORTS Offering Judo classes for adults & children at Discovery College & Community Hall 6244 6093 darumasports@gmail.com
Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more! 6624 8712 susan@embody.hk www.embody.hk
Limousine Rental
Limo service in HK & China • pick up from / to DB Tunnel • direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@gmail.com ACCESSDB Rehabus DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services
6283 9270 2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351 2987 6348 2987 0208 2987 9368
UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES
HK Dragons Football Club Football for 2.5- to 14- year old girls and boys 2987 4274 www.dragons.hk
24-hour Customer Service Hotline China Light & Power Emergency China Light & Power Information Line Discovery Bay Commercial Services Discovery Bay Fire & Ambulance Discovery Bay Management
3651 2345 2728 8333 2678 2678 2987 4242 2987 7502 2238 3601
Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266
MOW | Grooming & Skin Care A unique retail & treatment space at DBN, that caters to your grooming, skin care & therapeutic requirements 2499 8826 / 6773 3103 www.mowhk.com mowhk@mowhk.com Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Body Talk Maximum Care Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch Spa Siena Strand and Science HairSPA, North Plaza
2987 0283 6683 5755 2987 2060 2987 4112 2987 9198 2987 7382 2886 3820
Movement Improvement Pilates, Yoga, Spinning, TRX, Zumba, Personal Training The complete solution on your doorstep at DB North Plaza 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk
Sportsmanship Gymnastics Programs, Health Consultancy, Weight Management & Nutritional Supplements 2870 3524 www.sportsmanship.usana.com
View the business directory @ www.arounddb.com April 2015
87
OUT THERE
APRIL FOOL For fans of the spaghetti-tree hoax and the Great Blue Hill eruption prank, Peter Sherwood adds his penny’s worth to the All Fools’ Day canon
A
pril 1, a year ago: I was relaxing at home writing my acceptance speech for the Nobel Prize for Literature, when a small figure appeared outside my window. I live on the 12th floor. Short and with a large head like a cabbage he/ she/ it had a Muppet-like mouth which appeared to serve for both staccato speech and hearing. I naturally bid him good morning. Finally he spoke: “I have come about the ‘flog’”. “You what?” “I am from a universe light years from your irrelevant speck of cosmic dust,” he continued. “We have closely monitored planet Earth and catalogued everything about your crude science and innate urge to butcher each other. We have had not the slightest desire to visit you. But I volunteered to drop by and answer the only question that remains a puzzle.” “And what is that?” I asked. “Why, the flog of course.” “I’m sorry?”
have been meticulously analysed and show unhealthy signs of anger, bitterness and resentment.” “You must mean golf.” “Flog, golf, whatever. What is it, this ‘golf ’?” I explained: “It’s a game, a recreational activity, a sport, you know, fun and exercise for relaxation.” “And what is the point?” “Well, I suppose it’s to enjoy oneself.” “We have witnessed this mania and have yet to detect signs of enjoyment. We have recorded only frustration, great seriousness and many of your kind falling down on the green strip frothing at the mouth. Am I to report that this is ‘fun’?”
Illustration courtesy of www.galleryhip.com
What’s with the flog?
88
He looked bewildered. “You mean some humans can accumulate stacks of paper for shambling aimlessly around and chopping lumps out of the green strips?” “They have to hit a small white ball into a hole.” He shook his head in disbelief: “Why?” “Because the object of the game is to see who can get the ball into all 18 holes with the fewest hits.”
Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 16 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and he has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.
Find more from Peter April 2015
“We have no name for it, but our investigations show that much of this paper is given to some humans who appear on the green strips on a regular basis.” “That’s correct, they are called professional golfers.”
He began to shake with incredulity. “You mean the one who is laziest gets the most pieces of paper?! No wonder your species is backward. You reward those who do the least work, like those sub-humans you call ‘bankers’. We noted that they get more paper for less work than any species in the universe.”
“We have observed on your dreary sphere many thousands of long green strips devoid of any natural wilderness, habitat, or wildlife. They appear to be sterile except for small groups of human people wandering on them without purpose.” “Flog, you say?” “Yes, these humans often shuffle about in white shoes and tasteless, neon-bright garb. Periodically they hit the green strip with iron bars, and with unnatural aggression. Many of these humans
“I guess so.” “Everything is known to us. Only your golf remains a mystery. I must assume it is one of your ancient tribal rituals designed to provide a misplaced sense of certainty, like your football. Or your senseless drive to accumulate soiled pieces of paper with pictures of dead people on them.” “Oh, you mean money.”
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