April 2013
TEEN TRIUMPH
HOLDING COURT
MEET OUR YOUNG WRITERS’ COMPETITION
SPORTSMEN SCRIBES & MUSICIANS
FINALISTS
THE NEW GURUS
All the fun of the Tennis Nations Cup! Join your community online @ www.arounddb.com
Publishers in DB since 2002
APRIL 2013
海燕徑 SEABIRD
$95K
蘅欣徑 CAPERIDGE
$52K/13.8M
尚堤 CHIANTI
$39K/12M
T
EN
G EA
L
SO
Gross: 1442’ Saleable: 1442’ 3 2
Gross: 1594’ Saleable: 1381’
Contemporary open design, equipped kitchen, private terrace, great for entertaining.
海澄湖畔 SIENA
$40K
3 2
2
$38M
3 2
3
Sumptuous garden house with fantastic sea views. Great location and very privacy .
海燕徑 SEABIRD
$9.2M
Beautifully renovated, modern kitchen and bathroom, quiet location.
蘅欣徑 CAPERIDGE
Gross: 2099’ Saleable: 2094’ 4
$35K
Nicely renovated with balcony, spacious layout, and well management.
2
海澄湖畔 SIENA
Gross: 1037’ Saleable: 962’
Nice condition with balcony, high ceilings, great location.
朝暉徑 HEADLAND
Stylish renovated duplex with garden, modern kitchen and bathroom, unique.
海蜂徑 SEABEE
Gross: 1180’ Saleable: 963’ 3
Gross: 1165’ Saleable : 893’ 3
$11.8M
Gross: 742’ Saleable:593’ 2
Fully renovated, efficient layout, spacious living and dining areas. Unique.
1
海澄湖畔 SIENA
Gross: 1311’ Saleable:1171’ 3 2
Complete renovation to high standard, lovely wooden flooring, and great sea views.
旭暉閣 JOVIAL
$45K/9M
$25K
$11M
Gross: 1248’ Saleable: 968’ 3
Good renovation throughout, balcony with full great views, close to school and Club Siena.
2
康和閣 BRILLIANCE
$7.2M
T
EN
G EA
L
SO
Gross: 1037’ Saleable:962’ 3 2
Nicely renovated, spacious layout, open kitchen, a good investment opportunity.
Gross: 1446’ Saleable: 1220’ 5 2
Fully renovated joint unit, efficient layout, spacious living and dining areas.
Gross: 919’ Saleable: 776’ 3 2
Beautifully renovated, open kitchen, balcony with stunning sea views, walking distance to Plaza & pier.
Football Target Game
Zoggs 1st Trainer Swimseat 3mths+ or 12mths+
$270
$175 Platypus Swimwear & UV Hats
from
Parachute
Sand & Water Playtable
$489.90
$499
Summer Grobags
Spring is here at
$125
from
Bubble Machine
Explorer 200 Boat
$180
$299 Giant Water Soaker
$325
Iplay Swim Nappies
$150
from
$165
All Surface Netball
Popup Pool
$475
$375
Pedder Building Store 5/F Pedder Building,12 Pedder Street, Central T: 2522 7112 Horizon Plaza Store 21/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau T: 2552 5000 www.bumpstobabes.com
CONTENTS FEATURES 34
48
DEAR READER
58
30 34 38 43 48 52 58 64
PROFILE ADB’s Young Writers’ Competition – The Word IN FOCUS Why we love our lifestyle gurus SPECIAL FEATURE The Word winner: A Teen Perspective MONEY MATTERS Investing in rare stamps TALKING POINTS DB Youth Orchestra update ESCAPES Why a Balinese holiday is better than the rest ACTION The chilled-out DBees talk ice hockey STYLE Easy-to-implement bathroom design tips
REGULARS 10 26 50 70 72 74 78 81 84
IN & AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news ACROSS LANTAU What’s happening island wide TECH TREND Our resident techie answers some FAQs HK HAPPENINGS Hot stuff from across the harbour DB FACES Candid community snaps CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, local businesses and more PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau DB MOMENTS Visionary DBers running the London Marathon
Call it the guru issue! Get ready to be inspired! So many in the community are striving for excellence – and sharing it with others. This month we talk to voice coach Louise Thoreau, fitness trainer Zenny Kendall and ping-pong instructor Ivy Yeung – and their talented protégés. Top international musicians Patrick Pok-man Leung and Celeste Williams tell us why their own childhood passion for music has led them to found the Discovery Bay Youth Orchestra. And the dedicated dads-come-coaches of the DBees enthuse about getting young ice-hockey fans into the sport. All this brings me to Around DB’s first Young Writers’ Competition, The Word. (You can read Talla Buffery’s winning entry on p.38!) A big thank you, first, to all the entrants who made this, our first teen-writing competition, such a huge success. We were all blown away by your passionate and insightful feature writing! Thanks too to the mentors Lori C. Tighe, Karmel Schreyer and Lauren Gordon who met with the
three finalists to fine-tune their work. And of course thanks to you, the 1,000+ Around DB readers who voted online for your favourite article. The online response to The Word has left me in no doubt that we were right to go digital back in December 2012. Not that any such confirmation was actually needed – from the offset we have been bowled over by the number of hits and posts, with thousands of visitors getting online daily. Our articles, event updates and advertisements now have so much more reach – and of course they are so easy to share! I look forward to meeting up with you online at www.arounddb.com and www.facebook.com/AroundDB.
April 2013
TEEN TRIUMPH
HOLDING COURT
MEET OUR YOUNG WRITERS’ COMPETITION
SPORTSMEN SCRIBES & MUSICIANS
FINALISTS
THE NEW GURUS
All the fun of the Tennis Nations Cup! Join your community online @ www.arounddb.com
Publishers in DB since 2002
On the cover: Tennis Nations Cup Photo by Baljit Gidwani
Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@arounddb.com Editor Rachel Ainsley editor@arounddb.com Editorial Coordinator Dana Winograd dana@arounddb.com Advertising Lissa Morris lissa@arounddb.com Art direction Terry Chow cckterrychow@gmail.com Photography Tracey van Geest tracey@inspiredimages.co Baljit & Radhika Gidwani photosdb@hotmail.com Illustration Richard Leschinsky Accounts Lise Dooling accountant@arounddb.com Contributors this month Hannah Ball (Intern) Talla Buffery Marco Kaster Megaen Kelly Elizabeth Kerr Paula Lepore Burrough Karmel Schreyer Laura Watson General enquiries info@arounddb.com Published by Bay Media Limited Flat 230, Block D, DB Plaza Discovery Bay, Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2987 0577 Fax: (852) 2987 0533 www.arounddb.com facebook.com/AroundDB twitter.com/aroundDB youtube.com/AroundDB 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.
IN & AROUND DB
Tennis Nations Cup – a triumph! Photos by Baljit Gidwani, Amanda Thorsen, DBRC and Rosanna Sy-Siong
DB was all about tennis the weekend of March 9 and 10, with the annual Tennis Nations Cup taking over the Discovery Bay Recreation Club (DBRC). There was plenty of partying both on and off court, and if the younger spectators tired of the tennis, there was non-stop fun to be had at the carnival. The adults continued on well into Sunday evening at Club Siena, and just about everyone danced! For the tenth time since 2001, the Australian team came out victorious! Congratulations to all of the winners! To see more photos visit the Photo Gallery at www.arounddb.com. DBRC Nations Cup Winner: Australia Bradman Runner Up: Sakura Nippon
John Grimshaw Shield Winner: Philippines Runner Up: Korean Style
DBRC Trophy Winner: Chinese Kung Fu Pandas Runner Up: French Kiss
The Committee Plate Winner: Italy Runner Up: Oh Pilseung
The Donald Family Bowl Winner: India Runner Up: Great Britain
Best Dressed Day: Team USA Night: French Kiss
April 2013
11
IN & AROUND DB
DB Pirates celebrate a sensational season! Photos by Paul Christmas, Tony Crampton and the DB Pirates
Congratulations to the Discovery Bay Pirates Rugby Club (DBPRC)! As you will see below, they enjoyed many big wins this season. The club's two new netball squads also played extremely well, and the U13s claimed first place in the Primary Plate Division. Senior team: League and Cup winners in the Championship Division (in their second season!) U19 (boys): 10s Division 2 Cup, Division 2 Grand Champions Cup and Division 2 League winners U16 (girls): Standard Chartered 10s Tournament Cup, DB Beach Rugby Tournament Cup, 13-a-side League champions and 15-a-side League champions U12 (boys): Richard Hawks Cup winners (first team) and Richard Hawks Plate winners (second team) U9 (boys):
Unbeaten in all matches this season
The Pirates will be celebrating their successes at the annual Pirates’ Ball, a black-tie event at the Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong, Central on April 27. For more photos, check out the Photo Gallery at www.arounddb.com.
SOS Lanka Action charity dinner Photos by Rob Atkinson
On March 16 around 70 people headed to Café Duvet in DB Plaza for a delicious Sri Lankan curry buffet in aid of SOS Lanka Action. A whopping HK$29,000 was raised through the dinner and raffle. Fantastic prizes were donated by Sports World, PhotosDB.net, Dymocks, The Old China Hand, Hong Kong Yachting and Café Duvet! You can find out more about the DB-based charity in the Charity section at www.arounddb.com.
12
April 2013
Shining the light for children in DB.
Serving our community with continuity, flexibility and dedication since 1990. Sunshine House International Pre-Schools cater for children from 6 months to 6 years with two schools located in the heart of DB Plaza and DB North. Offering a bilingual and Mandarin immersion program following an adapted British National Curriculum. Extra-curricular activities available. Mother Goose playgroup program for "dad's and me" on Saturday Mornings. For further information contact our schools: Discovery Bay Plaza: 2987 8143 Discovery Bay North: 2987 0813 Tung Chung: 2109 3873 www.sunshinehouse.com.hk
IN & AROUND DB
Concert to aid the moon bears Photos by Tracey van Geest and Christine Lampert
The Globe at Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) was packed for the Moon Bear Concert on March 16, with everyone in attendance treated to an evening of superb music by a variety of performers including Benzine, Soul Trader and YRock musicians. The Animals Asia Foundation (AAF) slideshow left no one in any doubt about the cruelty of bear-bile farming. HK$50,000 was raised to support the AAF’s work in China and Vietnam, where some 12,000 bears are currently in captivity. Contact www.animalsasia.org to make a donation.
Win the ultimate
school guide!
COMPETITION
Finding the right school for our kids is a top priority. If you are moving your child from one school to another, locally or to the Lion City, you’ll need ITS’ The Unique Hong Kong & Singapore Schools Guide. Now in its fourth year of publication, it’s full of useful information on school options from preschool to secondary, application processes, curriculums and fees. ITS is registered with the Hong Kong Education Bureau, and provides private-tutor services in a comprehensive range of tertiary, secondary and primary school subjects. For more information, go to www.tuition.com.hk. For more education tips, go to www.arounddb.com and www.facebook/AroundDB.com.
14
April 2013
ITS Educational Services Ltd is offering five readers a copy of The Unique Hong Kong & Singapore Schools Guide. Simply log on at www.arounddb.com by April 10, click on the competitions link and tell us one piece of information you can find out about in the guide. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer.
Now open in DB Men | Women | Teens
C
atering to the therapeutic requirements of men, women and teens is the newly opened MOW | Grooming & Skin Care located in Discovery Bay North Plaza.
Co-owned by Kit Lau and David Sheehan, this pair has a different approach to the average spa, customising their treatments according to their clients. If you have a skin concern, they want to hear about it… they will then find a solution to this specific concern and adapt the facial accordingly. MOW is solution focused! With brands such as Somme Institute, VOYA, Rodial, Baxter of California, Gentlemen’s Tonic, The ShaveDoctor, Hierbas de Ibiza and The Laundress, MOW can provide products that suit your skin best. What’s more, if you like the products used on your skin, you can buy them from MOW’s shop. MOW offers customized massages and facials, specialized treatments for men such as traditional wet shaves, and a range of treatments for teens. They can advise you not only on the right products for your skin, but on how to use them for the perfect solution, whoever you are and whatever your skin type. For more information about MOW | Grooming & Skin Care and its services, please go to www.facebook.com/ mowhk.
Testimonials
“
Had the most wonderful facial here… treat yourselves! In addition, the results are right away visible. Someone asked me if I had had Botox!
Gill, beauty therapist for 20 years
”
“
Seriously the best massage I have had in my 12 years of being in Asia. It’s the first time in 4 weeks I haven’t had to take pain killers for my back problems and the staff were extremely knowledgeable, very professional and A1 brilliant! Being able to relax on the veranda afterwards in the sun with a view straight out to sea was an added bonus. LOVE! LOVE! LOVE!
Anna, back-pain sufferer
”
LG-01, Office Block Two, DBN Plaza, Discovery Bay, Hong Kong Tel: +852 2499 8826 www.mowhk.com | www.facebook.com/mowhk
APRIL 2013
APRIL AT A GLANCE
IN & AROUND DB
When
What
Where
April 6, 2-4.45pm
Plant Market
Nursery (across from Haven Court)
April 7, 8.30am
Bonaqua MHW Action Sprint
Mui Wo
April 7, 10am-5pm
Handmade Hong Kong bazaar
DB Plaza
April 12, 5.30-9.30pm
Island School Spring Cultural Fair
Island School, Central
April 14, 12-5pm
Flea Market
DB Plaza
April 14, 2-6pm
Good Habits with Money workshop
La Petite Enfance, DB North Plaza
April 20, 9am-12pm
DB Green Beach Clean Up
Sam Pak Wan (North Plaza Beach)
April 21, 3pm
Prince & Princess of the Hills trail run
Start: Seabee Lane steps
April 27, 7pm
The Pirates' 10th Anniversary Ball
Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong
April 28, 7am
Zoot SW Swim-Run-Fun
Tai Pak Wan (DB main beach)
If you organise an event, club or charity that you would like to see featured in this section, please contact dana@arounddb.com.
Please visit www.arounddb.com to participate in our competitions. (From the homepage you click on the competitions link.) You have until April 10 to submit your answers.
Hotel-quality bed sets
to take home!
COMPETITION
Sleep Naked provides the quality bed linen we enjoy at our favourite five-star hotels. The founders have been in the hotel-linen industry for over 20 years, and they know what works. They use 300 and 400 threadcount percale which launders well, is superbly durable and feels wonderful! Go to www.sleepnaked.hk to see the bed linens, pillows, duvets, towels and bath robes on offer. Sleep Naked is offering prizes to two readers. First prize is a Cross-Border Corded White Bedding Set (double, king or super king), made from 100% cotton with a modern cross-border design embroidered on the pillowcases and duvet cover, plus one plain white flat or fitted sheet. Second prize is a luxury three-towel set in 100% pure combed cotton weighing 650gms/m2. Click on the competitions link at www.arounddb.com by April 10 and tell us what thread counts are used in Sleep Naked’s linens for your chance to win. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer.
Congratulations to last month’s winners
Join the
Food Drive You’ll want to get involved with the fourth annual Curves Food Drive, organised by Club Siena-based women’s fitness studio Curves of Discovery Bay. From April 1 to 30, Curves is collecting non-perishable items and donations for Bethune House Migrant Women’s Refuge Ltd (BH). And the club is offering compelling incentives for both existing and potential members who participate. This is a company-wide month-long contest for the most food-drive donations collected at Curves locations across the globe. Contact the Curves team at 2987 0772, curvesdb@gmail.com.
Chin King Au and Natsumi Nishio for the Ozzie Cozzie vouchers; Seneca Chan and Karen Siuyanzi for the tickets to see Thomas and The Hidden Treasure; Linda Stuckey, Katherine Bryant and Maria Khrapova for the tickets to see The Sleeping Beauty; and Sarah Reynolds Turenne and Diana Marr for the Shaolin Fez concert tickets. Please call our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.
16
April 2013
APRIL 2013
IN & AROUND DB
Last chance to be a DMK PTA Family prince or princess Fun Day
It’s the third and final stage of the Prince and Princess of the Hills trail-running series, organised by the Lantau Buffalos and sponsored by Lantau Base Camp, on April 21. The race starts near the steps across from Seabee Lane and finishes at the lookout point. Registration begins at 3pm and most kids are expected to complete the run in 15 to 30 minutes. Any child born between January 1, 1997 and December 31, 2007 can enter. Sign up online at www.lantaubuffalos.org by April 19.
We’re really looking forward to the Family Fun Day May 5, being put on by Discovery Mind Kindergarten’s (DMK) PTA, in the Discovery College (DC) playground. Expect face painting, a bouncy castle, balloon art, games and a concert by the DMK kids. There’ll also be plenty of international food. One of the highlights of the afternoon is the baking competition, and everyone is invited to submit their creations. Contact dbbakeoff@gmail.com for more information. Admission is free; for some activities kids will need to buy coupons. Funds raised will go to Hong Kong charity Sunbeam Children’s Foundation ( w w w. s u n b e a m . o rg ) and DMK.
Free trial for a cleaner,
greener home!
COMPETITION
Kenlice (Hong Kong) Ltd has the lowdown on indoor air purifiers and cleaning systems. Try its Amaircare HEPA Air-Filtration System which cleans the air of pollen, dust, plant allergens, pet dander, smoke, domestic odours and more. The HYLA multi-function cleaning system from Germany, meanwhile, deeply cleans carpets, floors, upholstery and mattresses, using a state-of-the art waterfiltration system to trap dust, dirt, allergens, dust mites and bacteria. It is used by many 5- and 6-star hotels worldwide. Go to www.healthpoint.hk and www.kenlice.com for more information.
18
Kenlice (Hong Kong) Ltd is offering two readers the chance to have their mattresses cleaned with the HYLA water-based cleaning system. For your chance to win, click on the competitions link at www.arounddb.com by April 10 and tell us three causes of indoor air pollution. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer.
April 2013
does its bit
Last November, Picnic in the Park (PiP), Hong Kong’s largest live music and dance festival held annually in DB, raised an incredible HK$180,000. Cheques were personally delivered to the Hong Chi Association and the Hong Kong Student Aid Society in February. Visiting the charities’ care centres, along with DB resident and CEO of the title sponsor Platinum Financial Services Ltd, Mark Kirkham, the PiP team put on shows for the kids. Residents should note that funds were also donated to YRock and AccessDB. Planning for the eighth PiP on November 2 is already underway; to volunteer email pip@picnicintheparkhk.com.
Good Morning
Hong Kong You’ll want to catch the first showing of Good Morning Hong Kong, a homegrown musical about to make headlines internationally. Set in 1997 at the time of the handover, it centres on the trials, tribulations and triumphs of Rick Moon, a gweillo rock’n’roll singer and his Chinese wife, Fanny. Written by former Hong Kong Football Rugby Union executive director Allan Payne, it’s cochoreographed by Melissa Thornton of DB’s Island Dance. Good Morning Hong Kong will run from May 16 to May 26 at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai – and you are likely to see many familiar DB faces on stage. For tickets go to www.hkticketing.com or call 3128 8288.
APRIL 2013
IN & AROUND DB
Financial empowerment
Action Asia events
Have some
to watch swim-run fun! for – or race helpers
Enrich, a Hong Kong charity working to empower migrant women through financialliteracy and life-skills training, is now holding money-management workshops for helpers in DB. Enrich is encouraging employers to sponsor their helpers for the courses. These Good Habits with Money training sessions, being held on April 14 and May 5 at La Petite Enfance in DB North Plaza, cost just HK$250 per workshop. Read more about the organisation and the life-changing courses on offer at www.enrichhk.org.
Congratulations to DB’s Emma Bruce who was the fastest woman at the Action Asia Hysan Healthy Hike & Run, March 17. She completed the 21-kilometre Tai Lam trail course in two hours, 15 minutes and 48 seconds. You can catch the next big Action Asia race series, the four-part Bonaqua MHW Action Sprint, in Mui Wo (April 7), Sai Kung (April 21), Repulse Bay (April 28) and DB (May 5). The 12- to 13-kilometre trail races, suitable for all runners and fast hikers, also take in some rocky sections, gullies and coastlines. To enrol or find out more, go to www.actionasiaevents.com.
On April 28, Sports World is hosting a SwimRun-Fun race for adults, and children age eight to 16, centred around Tai Pak Beach. As the name suggests, participants will be swimming and running various distances – the adults slightly further than the kids! The registration fee is HK$150 by April 5, HK$200 by April 26 and HK$300 after that. Race day opens at 7am with staggered race starts beginning at 8.30am. Proceeds are going to the Love For Luke campaign started by Lantau residents Luke Inkin and his family to provide wish gifts to children facing cancer. Luke, recently diagnosed with Leukemia, is now in remission. To register and for more information, visit www.sportsworld.hk.
Since 2002, Chef pour Toi has been catering for a wide variety of customers, be it either business or pleasure. 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 the knowledge to turn your event into a success, allowing you to focus on your guests while we do what we know best.
Contact us to get a quote for your tailor-made party.
Chef Pour Toi Ltd. 2987 5797
chef@chefpourtoi.com www.chefpourtoi.com
APRIL 2013
IN & AROUND DB
Win tickets for the
Asia Contemporary Art Show
COMPETITION
JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong will be the temporary home for over 2,000 pieces of unique artwork from May 23 to 26 (5.30pm to 8.30pm on the 23rd; 12.30pm to 8.30pm on the other days) as it hosts the Asia Contemporary Art Show. Original paintings, limited editions, sculpture and photography will be displayed in over 70 gloriously transformed rooms! Browse and buy works from young, emerging and mid-career artists from Hong Kong, China, Southeast Asia, Australia, the USA, Spain and the UK. Visit www.asiacontemporaryart.com for more information and to buy tickets. The Asia Contemporary Art Show is offering readers six pairs of VIP Invitations (valued at HK$480 per pair), entitling the winners to a show catalogue and access to the exclusive VIP Preview on May 23, as well as a free weekend pass to the show and VIP Lounge. Simply log on at www.arounddb.com by April 10, click on the competitions link and tell us on which day the exhibition starts. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer.
Get connected! Your ultimate online guide to DB, Tung Chung and South Lantau! Upcoming events, useful information, property listings, business directory, competitions and more! Extend your reach! Join your community live @ www. arounddb.com
Time for a
dip
Good news! The outdoor swimming pools at Club Siena opened on March 29. All of the Club Siena pools open at 7am and don't close till 10pm, except on Mondays when the indoor pool opens at 10am, the outdoor pools at noon. As for the DBRC, the swimming pool complex is expected to reopen in June once a major refurbishment is completed. A shuttle bus will run between the clubs for members' use: hourly on weekdays from the DBRC, 7.45am to 3.45pm (skipping 11.45am) and from Club Siena, 8.15am to 4.15pm (skipping 11.15am). On weekends, the last bus leaves the DBRC at 7.45pm and Club Siena at 8.15pm, including the 11am runs. Visit www.arounddb.com under Members’ Clubs to find out more.
Scorpion Sport 65.....
...now available in Hong Kong tel +852 9199 3860 email scorpionribshk@gmail.com
wwwscorpionribs.com
Official supplier of Ben Ainslie Racing for the Americas Cup World Series
The Child & Family Development Practice opened in DB, offers a range of individual counselling services including child therapy, parent counselling, behaviour management, speech & language therapy and occupational therapy.
GROUPS OPENING IN APRIL 2013: THINK GOOD FEEL GOOD! (7Y-9Y & 10Y-13Y) Designed to teach helpful strategies for coping with new/ challenging situations, problem solving skills and strategies for controlling worries and thoughts(based on CognitiveBehaviour approach). GIRLS -Girls In Real Life Situations (7Y-9Y & 10Y-13Y) During sessions, girls will develop coping strategies and improve problem-solving skills. SUPERFLEX program – (4Y-6Y & 7Y-9Y) Focuses on skills like: flexible thinking, different perspectives, social expectations and problem solving skills (combining some CognitiveBehaviour approach). All programs are suitable for children of all abilities. For more information and registration contact us at: info@childdevelopment.com.hk www.childdevelopment.com.hk
Tel: 2914 2223
info@childdevelopment.com.hk
Natural Prenatal Care IMI offers a natural approach to a drugfree, safe and optimal childbirth with services in Naturopathic pre- and postnatal care, Traditional Chinese Medicine as well as Osteopathy for the mother and baby. Come to our FREE Prenatal Care Workshop on Thursday, 25th April, 6:30pm. Meet our team of practitioners and find out more about natural pregancy care. Topics include: • • • •
How to chose the right birth plan for you Natural therapies for common symptoms Beyond basics pregnancy nutrition Emotional wellbeing during pregnancy
Call 2523 7121 or email events@imi.com.hk to reserve your seat today! 13 & 17/F, Kailey Tower, 16 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong
ADVERTORIAL
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ACROSS LANTAU
APRIL 2013 EVENTS
Beer dash – a blast! Photos by Terry Spring
Approximately HK$95,000 was raised for the Lantau Buffalo Association, PALS and other South Lantau animal welfare groups at the fifth Lantau International Beer Dash on March 9. Nicholas Ball was the first man, Rada Tunasood the first woman, and the Thirsty Buffalos the first team to cross the finish line. The 350 participants outdid themselves this year with their creative costumes. Sea Creatures won Best Dressed, and the Lego Blocks won Most Child-Friendly Without Any Children. Check out the Photo Gallery at www.arounddb.com for more photos and the full list of winners.
APRIL 2013 EVENTS
www.homesolutions.hk
ACROSS LANTAU
Kelly Merrick
9331 8141
(S-365384)
Kendri So
9211 4223
(S-301473)
Sharon Riley
9664 4749
(S-415474)
NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG
30K CHEUNG SHA - Leyburn Villas 990’ - 1150’ + balcony
Renovated 3 bed, 2 bath home with private car park close to beach! Fully equipped kitchen! Communal pool!
18M
8.5K MUI WO Flat 382’ net
Lovely 1 bedroom flat offers great lighting and beautiful sea views! Easy commute to Central.
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MUI WO Village House 2100’ + 700’ roof
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ACROSS LANTAU
APRIL 2013 EVENTS
Lantau50 race day Photos by Michael Shoaf and Chung Yuk Fai
In its second year, the Raidlight Lantau50 on March 16 saw almost 1,400 athletes participating in the three different races: the 15 kilometre, 50 kilometre and the new 100 kilometre. The organisers also managed to collect two full boxes of backpacks from participants to donate to Hong Kong charity the Child Welfare Scheme (CWS) for distribution to children in Nepal. To find out more about CWS, go to www.cwshk.org. Check out the Photo Gallery on w w w.arounddb.com for race results and more photos.
APRIL 2013 EVENTS
ACROSS LANTAU
THE RED LANTERN Genuine antiques, small pieces of delightful furniture from the late Ching Dynasty.
Lantau International School Established in 1995. A few places are still available for this academic year in most year groups. British Curriculum, small classes, rural environment of South Lantau.
4 minutes' walk from the ferry in Mui Wo in the direction of the Silvermine Beach Hotel.
Free Delivery to DB Tel: 2987 0099 Fax: 2980 4833 glandam@netvigator.com
MUI WO FERRY SCHEDULES Mon-Fri (except Public Holidays) From DB 7.15am 3.05pm
From Mui Wo 7.45am 3.35pm
Sat, Sun and Public Holidays From DB 7.15am ＊ 8.45am # 10.45am 11.45am # 1.15pm 3.05pm # 4.15pm 6.15pm 8.05pm
From Mui Wo 7.45am ＊ 9.15am # 11.15am 12.15pm # 1.45pm 3.35pm # 4.45pm 6.45pm 8.30pm
＊ Operates on Saturday (except Public Holidays) only ＃ Operates on Sunday and Public Holidays only
School buses from DB (40 minutes), Tung Chung (20 minutes).
www.lis.edu.hk lisadmin@lis.edu.hk
Reception: Mui Wo 2984 0302 Lower Primary: Tong Fuk 2980 3676 Upper Primary: Pui O 2984 0302
PROFILE
the word Talla Buffery
reen
Sophie G
T
hrough The Word, our first Young Writers’ Competition, secondary-school students across Lantau were given the opportunity to write on the topic ‘Life in DB/ Lantau’. Creative and innovative entries made for interesting reading, and Around DB’s three mentors, Lauren Gordon, Lori C. Tighe and Karmel Schreyer decided on three winners: Talla Buffery (Year 12), Ken Arima (Year 10) and Sophie Green (Year 13). “We were so impressed with all the entries, and especially the attempts students made to make their work interesting to the reader,” says Karmel. Next up (before you all got to vote for your favourite article online), the three winners were each assigned a mentor who met with them just once to go through their work, giving them helpful suggestions for improvement. “I think each of
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April 2013
Ken
Arim
a
us had our own style for mentoring, and we discussed in detail beforehand the different approaches we would take with the young writer we were meeting,” explains Lauren.
Life in DB — A teen perspective “Overall, I was impressed with the general standard of writing,” Lauren, who mentored Talla, the writer of online article one, adds. “The writers’ powers of observation were excellent, and a lot of what they had to say was very insightful. Some of the entrants showed a talent for clearly and succinctly communicating facts about their subject, and that’s good journalism. Some also had a flair for colourful and creative writing that would really help a reader visualise what they were writing about, which is a good skill when developing feature articles.”
PROFILE
Over 1,000 people voted for their favourite article online
Over the past two months, local students have been racking their brains and lifting their pens for Around DB’s Young Writers’ Competition. Hannah Ball introduces the winners and meets the mentors to reveal what makes a true wordsmith With a BA in Journalism, Australian-born Lauren gained her chops working as a writer and editor for business magazine B&T in Sydney. On moving to London, she joined The Institute for International Research (IIR), a leading international business events company, as an awardwinning producer, then division manager. In 1995 she was promoted to managing director of IIR’s Asia operations, based in Hong Kong. Now a 13-year DB resident, Lauren made the move to freelance writing and editing when she started a family. “There were a number of things that, to me, really stood out about the entry I chose,” Lauren says. “Firstly, Talla obviously had a skill for writing with humour and addressed subjects that most other entrants had not. At the same time the writing covered delicate issues with a mature sense of
wit and sarcasm. The work stood out as well written, at times funny, clever and some might think a little brave. It also showcased excellent grammar, punctuation, spelling and good flow – that’s so important to get right if you want to be a writer.”
Encore: Watching the show of DB A DB resident since 1995 and a professional writer of 25 years, Karmel mentored Sophie, the author of online article two. Karmel works primarily as a writer and editor of English and Humanities text books, alongside writing magazine, newspaper and radio features. For a time, she also had a weekly column in Canada's National Post called It's HUGE in Asia. The Canadian-born mother of two has also published several children's books.
April 2013
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PROFILE
Mentors Lauren Gordon (left) and Karmel Schreyer (photo by Tracey van Geest)
Commenting on the competition entries received, Karmel notes that “some showed a good attempt to include certain protocols of magazine feature-writing such as sidebars and ‘useful info’ sections. Some, however, were a departure from the norm, such as the one I chose. “Sophie demonstrated a subtlety of thought and perception, worthy of The New Yorker,” Karmel explains. “Right away, I got the sense that she had the rare skill to translate observations in a way that would speak to readers. I saw a passionate/ compassionate eye, a vivid imagination, a love of metaphor, a flair for the dramatic, a bit of innovative wordsmithing, and a sprinkling of wry wit. I felt like I was reading not only an entertaining essay or memoir, but a piece written with love – unconditional love – for this community.” Mentoring students from schools in Los Angeles through the Daniel Pearl Youth News programme, as well as having taught creative writing courses at Hong Kong’s YMCA, Karmel certainly knows her stuff. “The best writing is ‘honest’ writing, whether its fiction or non-fiction, and I saw a lot of honesty in the piece I chose,” she explains. “But more than that, writing can be an act of bravery. To be forthcoming in your own perception of things is a great quality for any writer to have, and a quality that Sophie certainly possesses.”
Diary of a DB teen Lori has been writing and editing for 15 years with US
Read all three prizewinning articles
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April 2013
Mentor Lori C. Tighe
magazines and newspapers, including the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel and the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, covering investigative news, as well as environmental, family and health feature stories. Originally from New York, she has lived in DB with her husband and two sons since 2007. Lori, the librarian at Discovery Bay International School Kindergarten, mentored Ken, the writer of online article three. “The entry I chose surprised me with its humour and creativity,” Lori notes. “The author, Ken, used fantasy reminiscent of Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure to overcome the powerlessness of teens waiting for ‘real’ life to begin. Yes, teens feel bored even in the beachy, mountainous, country club haven of DB. But this writer used his Sponge Bob ‘imaginaaaaaaation’ to make it fun. “Other submissions showcased a whole variety of styles and genres. Some were commentaries, some fictional pieces. Some used humour particularly well, several even made me laugh out loud,” Lori adds. “One thing I do know is that there are lots of very creative young people in Lantau.” With over 1,000 people casting their online votes, Talla Buffery was announced the overall winner on March 17 for Life in DB — A Teen Perspective, Sophie Green came in second with Encore: Watching the Show in DB, and Ken Arima placed third for Diary of a DB Teen. Around DB hopes that everyone who took part in the competition found it an enjoyable and rewarding experience. You can read Talla’s winning entry on page 38.
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IN FOCUS
Songbirds Louise and student Lauren
G
urus come in all shapes and forms, not just spiritual. We seek out gurus to assist with our personal development, and act as guides. True tutelage is more than just answering occasional questions or providing ad hoc help. It is about an ongoing relationship of learning, dialogue and challenge. Put simply, we look to our gurus for the transmission of knowledge. The process entails informal communication, usually face-to-face and during a sustained period of time, between a person who is perceived to have greater relevant knowledge, wisdom, or experience (the guru) and a person who is perceived to have less (the protégé). Let’s hear it from three local devotees, who find their (voice and fitness) coaches indispensable.
Voice coach extraordinaire Louise Thoreau, a familiar face on stage here in DB, has been teaching voice and music theory for decades, giving
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our aspiring musical artists the benefit of her experience in classroom teaching and performing. “As a coach or teacher my role is to figure out what my client needs – to take their weaknesses and turn them into strengths,” she says. Louise explains that a lot of psychology goes into her lessons. “Students bring their day with them and this affects how they perform. The first thing I ask is, ‘How was your day’?” Louise also has to adjust her teaching style to suit the individual, as she meets extroverts, introverts and everything in between. “But the main thing is that all my students know their sessions with me are a ‘safe place’ where they can feel free to express themselves,” she adds. One of Louise’s younger students, 12-year-old Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) student Lauren Miller is eager to share her thoughts about her relationship with her beloved voice coach. “Louise is not only extremely good at what she does, she is kind, easy to get on with
IN FOCUS
guru love Karmel Schreyer talks to three of DB’s busiest coaches, and some of their protégés, for an insightful look at successful relationships and the synergy they create
and has a lot of patience. She listens to my song choices and is very supportive but she will be honest if she does not think a song will suit my voice. She is constantly searching for new material for me and is always willing to help out with extra practice sessions if I have an audition coming up. Louise is always available to give advice and support and frequently texts my mum with progress updates and suggestions on how to take care of my voice.” Mother Lesley agrees,
“Louise is not only a wonderful voice coach but she is also a role model. Kids may not always listen to their mums but they will take advice from other adults they respect. So, as a single mother, I have to say Louise is a godsend.”
Ping-pong diplomat Kids waiting for their dance lessons will know Ivy Yeung; the woman teaching table tennis in the Discovery Bay Recreation Club (DBRC) squash court after school. Of course Ivy, who has made the trek to DB from Shatin every Jasper with his beloved teacher Ivy
April 2013
35
IN FOCUS
workday for over ten years, has her own students too – the legions of table-tennis enthusiasts who are excelling in the sport under her dedicated and expert tutelage.
music and I loved it from the first moment!” she says. Ever since then, Bea has been training with Zenny at least three times a week. She gets the most out of kickboxaerobics. “It is a high intensity class that is really hard work, with movements based on Jasper Ros, nine years old and in Year 5 martial arts,” Bea explains. “Even though at DBIS, has been taking lessons from Ivy it is a group activity, I feel like I have a for almost two years. He says he loves Zenny, and with Bea above (right) personal trainer. Zenny has many years his coach, who he calls Laoshi (honoured of experience and knows about human teacher). “She's taught me the techniques anatomy and how we can build it up in the of ping-pong. I can now spin the ball and best way. She is responsive, showing us different ways of smash,” Jasper, who now regularly beats his father and doing the exercises depending on our strength or problem older brother at the game, says with glee. ‘Have a good areas. She challenges me towards my goals!” time’, and ‘practice, practice, practice’, Jasper cites as some of his teacher’s best advice. “She's very funny, we laugh a lot, and she pushes me to do my best,” he says. Zenny says she tries not to take herself too seriously and “She also gives me candy!” encourages students to do the same. “I keep my classes light-hearted and fun,” she says. She also draws on over 20 years’ experience as a yoga practitioner in her approach to It’s clear that Ivy is equally attached to her students, and fitness training. admits that it is hard when they move on – even if it means they have been selected for the Hong Kong national team and must continue their training in town. This, of course, is “I encourage my students to be in the moment,” Zenny a testament to her coaching abilities, and so she takes it explains. “Each time we come to class we have an in stride. “My students, even when they are grown up and opportunity to put down our daily problems, concentrate playing overseas, come back to see me,” she says. “They on connecting the movement with our breathing and let bring me t-shirts from their tournaments.” the body flow. It couldn't be easier and yet to empty the mind and just breath is, for many, so difficult.” This, as we all know, is a part of existing on the Hong Kong treadmill but as Kick-boxing Zen master Zenny says, “It’s the place that [we] want to live”. So let’s get by – with a little help from our gurus! Zenny Kendall is one of DB’s most popular fitness trainers, with several areas of expertise, including cardiostep-, toning-, zumbastep-, and kickbox-aerobics. She is a blackFind it belt karate instructor and uses this proficiency in her classes. • Zenny Kendall, via the DBRC, www.dbrc.hk Bea Hagglund moved to DB from Sweden two years ago, • Louise Thoreau, louthorea@aol.com and after six months without exercising she decided to give • Ivy Yeung, via the DBRC, www.dbrc.hk Zenny’s class at the DBRC a go. “It is full of energy and great
Find more inspirational local stories
36
April 2013
www.arounddb.com
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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April 2013
SPECIAL FEATURE
a teen
perspective Talla Buffery, the winner of this year’s Around DB Young Writers’ Competition, gives us a no-holds-barred teen take on resort living
T
he prams, the golf carts, the umbrella tables… wait, and we’re not in a holiday resort? Discovery Bay – what is the first thing you think of? Masses of teenagers, a somewhat quiet, convenient little island home to expat families? Well, living in the bubble for a good 16 years has given me the right to say you’re correct – yet of course, there’s more to it. While this ‘picture perfect’, holiday-themed attracts the eyes of many, it’s no surprise that a majority of teenagers venture out into the welcoming arms of places like Lan Kwai Fong on the weekends – there is nothing of teenage interest to do in DB. Hang out in McDonalds or sit at the plaza tables with a bottle of sprite? That doesn’t necessarily spell out ‘fun’ to a bunch of 14 to 18 year olds.
bay
undeniable want to expel yourself outside of DB into Hong Kong’s nightlife. Another recent development has caught my attention – DB is starting to turn into a very commercial area; an attraction for tourists rather than a home. There is no point in denying this, because unless the hotel in DB North Plaza is being built so I can live The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, and the horses are here to run wild and free, you are lying to yourselves. After the hotel development is finished, I’m about 110% sure that DB will become packed with tourists, and we may even resort to calling ourselves Beijing number two just for the sake of it.
The Suite Life of Zack and Cody Designed mainly for toddlers, children and adults, it’s fair to say that there is no entertainment for teenagers here in DB, and it drives them a little crazy. On a positive note, it makes you want to stay indoors and try to convince yourself to study… only resulting in hours upon hours of endless roaming on the internet. Or, as mentioned before, an
Despite this, DB is an extremely safe place – but this can be good and bad. Kids might become so accustomed to this that they forget about safety when going out of the country. It may be normal to see seven-year-olds wandering about in the evening here, but in America, the UK, or basically anywhere but DB, it’s a ‘kidnap waiting to happen’ in anyone’s eyes. But don’t fret! DB has employed several guards who do their job very well – so well that any attempt of 'freedom' and 'fun' is stopped by the bright light of their majestic torches.
I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else
Around DB Young Writers’ Competition winner, Talla Buffery
To shed a brighter light, I’d say the best thing about DB is how close everything is. School is 10 to 15 minutes away (five for some!), and visiting a friend only takes
April 2013
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SPECIAL FEATURE
a walk, bus ride or a climb through the window. Those who go to a DB-based school have the luxury of ‘sleeping in’ 30 minutes more than the ones who attend Hong Kong Island and Kowloon schools, and all have the freedom to buy loads upon loads of junk any place that sells cheap food. DB kids are basically living the life off fast food. Convenience stores such as 7-11 are open at all hours, and are within five minutes of any location (even 0.5 seconds for the two next to each other at the plaza), allowing everyone the gift of buying a truckload of inexpensive food to binge on. Now who wouldn’t want that? What would be the best thing about DB is if it wasn’t
so polluted (thankfully not as much as Central). At night
when all the children are tucked into their beds, and the adults are either down at the plaza getting drunk or already asleep by 8pm… everything is so quiet. Sometimes it’s okay for about two minutes until I realise I’m a teenager again – but at other times when I allow myself to appreciate the relative silence of my home, and look at the only few stars I manage to find past the pollution in the sky, I realise that I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Well, except for the plaza on Friday nights… everyone should stay at least 100 metres from the good old drunken lads.
Talla celebrating her win with her mother in the Around DB office
Find more topical local topics
40
April 2013
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DMR
School of Ballet
Est. 1984
Establishing
standards of international excellence... since 1984 MAIN STUDIO:
112 DB PLAZA, DISCOVERY BAY, LANTAU Tel: 2987 4338 www. dmr-hk.com
MONEY MATTERS
stamp of
Photos courtesy of Stanley Gibbons (Asia)
approval
Investors seeking wealth preservation, portfolio diversification, prestige and exclusivity are looking to rare stamps as an alternative investment strategy. Marco Kaster reports Highly collectible though not considered very rare, the Penny Black is the world’s first adhesive postage stamp
I
n the month that Hong Kong Resort International Ltd (HKRI) announced its plan to build six ‘super’ houses next to the golf course and the Discovery Bay Pirates Rugby Football Club rounded up its double in the Hong Kong Rugby Championship, a world record was broken in a rather stuffy auction room on Hong Kong Island. I was buying Chinese stamps on behalf of the company for our investor stock; that is, rare investment-grade stamps that are expected to go up in value and which form the basis of many a diversified investment portfolio.
stamps do, however, appear in local, regional and even global media from time to time – when the price is right – notably a pair of relatively ‘young’ stamps featuring Dr Sun Yat-sen that sold for HK$5.52 million at auction in Hong Kong last October. What makes these stamps rare, and therefore valuable, is that the portrait of Dr Sun is inverted, with only one sheet of just 50 stamps ever printed and put into circulation in 1941. By contrast, the ‘normal’ stamp is very common and sells for around HK$8.
Investment-grade stamps My late-February purchase, despite being a world record for a set of 11 stamps issued by China’s Imperial Post, but overprinted with Tibetan values (Annas and Rupees) in 1911, did not make any headlines, as I paid only HK$28,000. Rare
So what constitutes an investment-grade stamp and, more importantly, why are investment-grade stamps expected to continue to go up in value?
April 2013
43
MONEY MATTERS
First off, it’s essential to understand the distinction between collectible and investment-grade stamps. Collectible stamps are amassed by people who are interested in philately; they collect for the joy of it. Investment-grade stamps, on the other hand, are stamps identified as having the potential to grow in value based on rarity, condition, liquidity and certain other characteristics. Consider the Penny Black – the world’s first adhesive postage stamp, issued in the UK in 1840. Despite its significance to collectors it is not that rare a stamp, since 68 million were printed. A used Penny Black in poor condition can cost as little as HK$4,000, an unused or mint example could cost up to HK$200,000, depending on whether it has the original gum or not and whether the margins around the stamp are close or wide. Only a very small fraction of all stamps ever issued are considered rare and as such likely to increase in value. It is these stamps that investors use for diversification and as an anchor for wealth preservation. In addition, rare stamps are uncorrelated to other asset classes and largely unaffected by economic events making them a very viable and stable alternative asset class with significant growth potential. To illustrate this, let’s look to US investor Bill
Gross, the co-founder of global investment firm PIMCO, who has amassed a complete collection of 19th-century US stamps; a feat accomplished by only two other collectors in the past. In 2007, Gross’ collection of British stamps, purchased during the preceding decade for about US$2.5 million (HK$19 million), sold at auction for US$10.5 million. “It’s four times profit,” said a delighted Gross at the time. “It’s better than the stock market!”
An affordable asset Now of course, most people are not in the market for a multi-million dollar stamp or able to amass a collection worth millions. Some have young families and are looking to invest for their children’s education; others, approaching retirement, may be aiming to protect their pension; and others still are looking for true portfolio diversification. Much of the appeal lies in the fact that this type of investment product is easy to understand, and straight forward to execute. Investors own the asset (the stamps) – there is nothing virtual about it. The average investment in rare stamps is around HK$600,000 and consists of five to six stamps, so a typical investment-grade stamp costs around HK$120,000. That said, prices for investment-grade stamps start at around HK$10,000, and one can establish a portfolio with an initial outlay of as little as HK$120,000. The GB250 Rare Stamp Index which tracks prices of all British stamps valued at approximately HK$120,000 and above, and which is quoted on Bloomberg
1968 Directives of Mao Tse-tung, pictured under 1897 Red Revenues (inverted) – both are sought-after investment-grade stamps
Find more financial advice and services
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April 2013
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AroundDB_Apr13.indd 1
3/15/2013 11:47:37 AM
MONEY MATTERS
Professional®, has shown an average compound annual growth rate of 13.9% since it was first compiled 10 years ago. The index also showed an increase of 32.7% between 2007 and 2008 when the global markets crashed, demonstrating the lack of correlation to other asset classes referred to above. So why are rare stamp prices so stable? Well, the vast majority of stamps belong to collectors, not investors. A prestige collector might have to wait five or 10 years before he finds the particular stamp he is looking for – and when he gets it, he is likely to hold on to it for years and years. Collectors do not rush to sell their stamps at the first sign of a downturn in the stock markets or currency de-stabilisation. If anything, they hold on to their precious collections even more.
The five golden rules There are five golden criteria to follow when investing in rare stamps. Firstly, only invest where there is a small number of surviving examples. Secondly, only invest in the best quality examples. Many factors influence the condition of a stamp, from the margins around it (early stamps were
cut by postmasters and had no perforations) to the gum on the back, to freshness of colour, and all need an expert appraisal. Thirdly, ensure authenticity can be proven – a certificate is only as good as the person or body issuing it. Fourthly, only invest in areas where there are a healthy number of collectors, as collectors drive prices. And lastly, follow the classic value-investment principle – seek to buy at below fair value. Determining the quality and value of a rare stamp is a specialist skill and should be left to an expert as there are numerous factors which are taken into consideration. Buy from a name you can trust – a knowledgeable dealer with many years of experience who has a valued reputation to uphold.
Marco Kaster is investment director for Stanley Gibbons (Asia) Ltd, the world’s premier stamp and prestige collectibles merchant with offices in London, Jersey, Guernsey and Hong Kong. You can contact Marco at 3975 2988, mkaster@stanleygibbons.com.
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TALKING POINTS
classic ensemble
F
ounded just last summer by the talented Hong Kong-born musician, Patrick Pok-man Leung and his Canadian collaborator, Celeste Williams, the Discovery Bay Youth Orchestra (DBYO) now has 25 dedicated young members aged six to 18. Its first concerts performed at BSME in DB North Plaza and at the Hong Kong Science Museum, Tsim Sha Tsui last summer were hugely successful. A Beethoven programme is in the works for this coming August. Patrick and Celeste studied at the Mozarteum University Salzburg, Austria, and now form a Four-Way Duo of piano and violin (Patrick) and violin and viola (Celeste). In fact, the prestigious pair are quietly hitting the big time, winning international competitions, being broadcast on television and radio, and touring Europe. They teach at Mozarteum Salzburg for seven months of the year. “We want to give children the same feeling we have when we play music, a rare joy that cannot only be held by the individual but shared with others,” explains Patrick. Hence the DBYO.
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April 2013
Sound bites The DBYO is open to anyone in Hong Kong who plays an orchestral instrument and has an enthusiasm for music; there is no auditioning process. While the majority of members are under 18, adults are also encouraged to join. Beginners start on simple pieces, building up to concertos and symphonies. The orchestra meets each summer in the DB home of Isabelle Chedin to perform and rehearse. “I’m so grateful to be part of such a beautiful human adventure,” says Isabelle, who returned to piano playing after a 20-year gap having attended a master class with Patrick.
One talented member of the DBYO, David Lunn, 16, a solo violinist, takes master classes with Celeste. “I love playing with the DBYO, making music and being a part of something great when it all comes together,” he explains. “Currently in Year 12 at Discovery College, David has plans to take his passion to the next level by studying music at university in England. “Quite often I listen to different types DBYO founders Patrick and Celeste
TALKING POINTS
Connecting the many cultures of Hong Kong through the universal language of music, Discovery Bay Youth Orchestra aims to engender true musicality. Hannah Ball reports
The DBYO is open to kids aged six and up – it also welcomes adult members
of classical music on the MTR. It just seems to add more colour to life,” he says. “We want children in Hong Kong to have a real appreciation for the musicality of a piece, rather than merely learning how to have perfect technique,” Celeste notes. “We aim to get members of the DBYO to think outside the box and understand what the music is really all about.”
music in particular. Celeste’s talent was also nurtured from a very early age, and she made her first solo debut with a professional symphony orchestra at the age of eight. “Both Patrick and I have had great training, and that’s why we teach in Discovery Bay – we want children in Hong Kong to have the same opportunities we had,” she explains.
Future plans for the DBYO include more frequent concerts, master classes and chamber music workshops. “Maybe someday, we will see the DBYO DBYO’s 15-year-old solo pianist, performing in other countries as well Tiffany Sy, a student at St Stephen’s On stage last summer at BSME in DB’s North Plaza as Hong Kong,” suggests Patrick. “As Girls College in Mid-levels, has been a starting point, we would love to see more participants. At playing the piano for nearly 10 years. Joining the DBYO at the the moment we don’t have enough brass, woodwind or viola onset, Tiffany now takes master classes with Patrick. “I love players, so it would be great to find musicians with those how every musician can play their instrument in their own particular skills.” For now the DBYO is looking forward to its personal and unique way,” she confirms. “Patrick is such a summer show: rehearsals start on July 15. brilliant teacher, I’m so lucky to be able to learn with him.”
Orchestral manoeuvres Learning to play the piano at the age of five and the violin age seven, Patrick has always loved classical music and chamber
Find more local clubs and activities
Find it • Discovery Bay Youth Orchestra, www.piano-violin.com
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TECH TREND
apply yourself Is the sheer volume of apps available, preventing you getting it on with your iPad? Paula Lepore Burrough has the in
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I love my iPad, what apps should I get? (www.composecreate.com)
AppAdvice
Apps Gone Free
Discovr
Appsfire
AppAdvice makes it easy to find the perfect app whether using the app itself or through its online site. A team of enthusiasts create 24+ articles each day to keep readers up to date. They are basically watching the app store for you. Browse the website to scan the top 100 free and paid iPad apps. Or view the app which contains news about the latest IOS devices, lists hand-picked apps for specific activities, and helps you find the best app for a specific need. If you are an iPad virgin, the AppStart app is a fun first time. Think of it as an app of greatest hits.
The 2012 Best App Ever Award winner allows for lots of foreplay before you purchase the best free apps of the day. The Apps Gone Free techies find quality apps that developers are offering free of charge. You’ll find summaries written by experts, who tell you all about each particular app, and why you need it! No more time and money wasted on useless apps – this is an effective filter for the trashy ones. You can also install the AppBump app and vote for apps that are expensive, but well worth trying. Apps Gone Free tempts developers to stop charging their community of users.
Discovr has more than 2.5 million users and, Number One in 17 countries including the US and Japan, it certainly gets around. Its refreshingly clean front page requests the name of an iPad app you particularly like. Then a charming spider map appears recommending similar/ related apps. You can click on this potentially never-ending map to expand it, and save or share it at any point. To discover more about an app, double tap to view a description, ratings and screenshots. You can also finger-tap and hold to add it to your online favourites or wish list.
Marketed as ‘the one app you should not be without’, Appsfire is certainly a sure fire way to find the apps you’ll love. When ready to use the app, you will be prompted to answer if you are a professional, a student, an athlete, a networker, a parent, a gamer, a traveller, or a creative. You are also asked if you are simply looking for free apps or games. Then Appsfire can hone its hunt to tantalise you with nicely packaged folders of apps. You can also opt to have your matches sent to you via email or Facebook. Simply adjust the filters, if you decide you need fresh blood.
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ecently, I attended an iPad weekend workshop Discovering Great Content in Shekou, China, led by Marty Ruthalvilavan (tweet him @mmrythatl). Why did I find it useful? It can be an overwhelming task finding the right app amongst the 300,000+ to choose from. And I can’t keep track of the number of times I have been asked, ‘What should I install on my iPad?’. Since an app is as unique as the person using it, my recommendation would be to use a few of the following to get you back in the game. It will transform your relationship with your iPad to happily ever after.
April 2013
www.arounddb.com
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 HK Government (including domestichelper insurance, house insurance, automobile coverage and life insurance), are always worth due diligence. This month, I want to wake you up to some things you may not have considered about your health insurance policies.
Health The different types of medical insurance available in Hong Kong are confusing, and the premiums vary tremendously. Here’s how to make sense of a four- tier medical system: 1. Government hospitals – you know how that works. 2. Lower tier insurance – basic coverage for those of you on a budget. This type of insurance is good for the self-employed and for non-travellers (limits can be really low for Europe, Australia and North America). It can be used at local private hospitals but may leave you short if any major surgery is needed. Be aware too that if you have a large claim your next premium will increase considerably. For outpatient claims, reimbursements are not so high especially if your doctor is in Central or DB. 3. Middle tier insurance – high local coverage that is also sufficient to cover outpatient claims and doctors’ bills in DB and Central. This type of insurance is typically for those at managerial level. It works for frequent travellers, even those heading to Europe, Australia and Canada but those travelling to the US will need a bit more protection. 4 Top-tier insurance – high-end cover for just about any hospital, anywhere in the world. This type of insurance provides all kinds of benefits, including private rooms, and free delivery for pregnant women. Top-tier insurance is popular with senior executives, independently wealthy people and women who want kids.
My offer: These are oversimplified concepts and different people have different budgets. 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.
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island of the Photos courtesy of Flight Centre Hong Kong
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t’s mid-afternoon and I am relaxing by the pool, sipping some glorious concoction out of a large coconut. To put it simply, I’m in heaven! A seasoned Bali vacationer, this is my tenth visit and I am already planning my next trip back. Why? Because I always know what to expect. An established holiday destination for more than 30 years, with an abundance of resorts, trendy restaurants and bars, and family-friendly activities, Bali really does have what it takes.
My 90-minute spa treatment is sensational and worth every penny; I leave feeling famished. Time then for an aperitif and a bite to eat. Another great thing about Bali is the variety of cuisine on offer – expect everything from traditional local delicacies to fine French cheeses. But don’t think that your stay need be limited to resort lounging – there’s so much more to the island than that!
Heaven on Earth After an hour of pure laziness, I eventually decide it’s time to do something. Unfortunately (or fortunately, perhaps!), I have just missed my chance to head out on an adventure tour involving white-water rafting and an elephant safari. Plenty of time then to relax, enjoy a spa treatment and look forward to my cooking class tomorrow.
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The word ‘paradise’ is used a lot in Bali and not without reason. The combination of friendly hospitable people and a magnificently visual culture infused with spirituality truly engages visitors. Unlike any other island in largely Muslim Indonesia, Bali is a pocket of Hindu religion and culture.
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Exploring the cultural and geographical diversity that is Bali, Laura Watson reveals why she need never holiday anywhere else
Not just for surfers, Sunset Beach, Seminyak
Hanoi street scene
Every aspect of Balinese life is suffused with religion, but the most visible signs are the tiny offerings (canang sari or sesajen) found in seemingly every Balinese house and workplace. These leaf trays are made daily and can contain an enormous range of items: flowers, glutinous rice, cookies and salt, and even cigarettes and coffee! Some 144 kilometres east to west, and 80 kilometres north to south, Bali’s diverse geography will take you from the active volcano Mount Agung in the east, all the way to the low plains of the south, and across the lush forests and stepped rice paddies of the island’s centre. The beaches of the north are mostly black sand, while the tourist beaches of the south are white, and the entire island is surrounded by coral reefs, making it perfect for diving and snorkelling. Each area offers
something different. So it’s worth exploring the entire island. Here’s a guide to help you plan your next Bali getaway.
Relaxing Nusa Dua The place name Nusa Dua is used in two ways: either it refers to the entire eastern side of the Bukit Peninsula at the southern tip of Bali, or it refers to the purpose-built tourist enclave at the southeast side of this peninsula. Ensuring visitors’ peace of mind, the Nusa Dua enclave has three manned gates and everyone entering is subject to a security search. The whitesand beaches are wonderful – long and safe for swimming – and water-sports activities abound. The ‘real’ Bali of rice fields and small villages is a good drive away, but if you’re simply here to relax, swim and eat, then it’s the perfect option.
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ESCAPES Nusa Dua is home to many of Bali’s large, all-inclusive, familyfriendly resorts but if you want some time away from the kids, check out Kayumanis Villas. This adult-only property is an oasis for couples wanting to relax in the privacy of their villa yet still access all the beach-side facilities. Nusa Dua is also renowned for some of Bali’s finest spas, check out my favourite: Boutique Spa Sekar Jagat. Should you feel like getting out and about, a boat trip to Serangan Island (Turtle Island) is a must do. As the name suggests, Serangan is a turtle conservation area, and the glass-bottomed boats allow for non-invasive observation of marine life.
ing boats Local fish
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ount Agun
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A visit to the Pasifika Museum is a real treat for anyone interested in the art of Bali, Southeast Asia and the South Pacific region. Look out for the exhibitions focused on European artists who have made Bali their home, as well as renowned local painters.
Sophisticated Seminyak Situated on the west coast just north of long-time tourist destinations Kuta and Legian, Seminyak is possibly the trendiest area in Bali. For good food and cocktails in a stylish environment, head to Ku De Ta which holds regular events, and has become something of an island institution. Another chic destination for drinks is Potato Head Beach Club, which blends daytime beach chill-out destination, upscale restaurant and hip night club.
Life’s a beach in Nusa Dua
This seafront town easily charms with its laid-back vibe. Stroll down the beach for a lesson at the Rip Curl School of Surf. At the end of the half-day lesson you will be standing up and waving to the camera. If not, the next lesson is free. Then, to wind down from the adrenaline rush head to Body Works, which offers the traditional Balinese mandi lulur — an hour-long massage followed by an exfoliating scrub made from turmeric, sandalwood, cinnamon and ground rice. The expert manicures and pedicures leave fingers and toes glowing and ready for a night out. I stay at the Dusun Villa, Seminyak Hotel just a minutes’ stroll from Sunset Beach and Seminyak’s main strip. The Dusun is a blissfully quiet property with 14 private villas, just perfect for families or groups. Samaya Villas and Spa is another good bet. Occupying prime position on the beachfront with spectacular, unobstructed ocean views, it’s arguably the finest location in the area to catch the famous Seminyak sunset.
Sublime Ubud f r Temple o The Mothe
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Besakih
If you’re seeking culture, comfort, nature and inspiration, head to Ubud, a charming village set in the cool mountains
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HK Boats and Homes Ltd.
Largest portfolio of liveaboards in Discovery Bay
6055 0146
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michelejcameron@msn.com
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of southern central Bali. It represents everything that attracts people to the island – from the scenic rice fields and plunging valleys, to the thriving arts-and-crafts communities. This is the time to do all your last-minute shopping. There are some wonderful shops along Monkey Forest Road where you can purchase beautiful batiks, sculptures and other mementos. Make time too to stop by the sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal – an important sacred site in Bali, and home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques. I like to stay at Alila Ubud. Located on top of a gently terraced mountain, with magnificent views over the Ayung River Valley, this idyllic little getaway provides a peaceful atmosphere for those who want to escape and just relax. Who said Bali is all about the beach?
Flight Centre Hong Kong specialises in first-class yet affordable flights and holiday packages. To book your Balinese 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.
Insider tips 1. Pristine dive sites. Menjangan Island in the Bali Barat National Park offers the best coral walls in Bali and some of the most colourful dive sites in Indonesia. 2. Dance with dolphins. The quiet beaches of Lovina in the north provide a fantastic marine sanctuary. You can take a boat trip out to swim with the dolphins in the calm waters. 3. Mother of all temples. Perched on the side of Mount Agung in the east, the Mother Temple of Besakih, is the largest and holiest temple complex in Bali. It’s simply stunning at sunset. 4. All the fun under the sun. South Kuta is a fantastic family destination, with safe beaches, resorts with amazing kids’ clubs and of course the fabulous waterpark, Waterbom Bali. 5. MasterChef – Bali-style. Alila Manggis in eastern Bali opened the island’s first cooking school, and offers a range of cooking adventures and master classes in Balinese cuisine.
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ACTION
smooth moves
Photos by Michael Mak
You may be surprised to learn that Hong Kong has a thriving ice-hockey culture, and that DB is an epicentre for youth ice hockey in the territory. Megaen Kelly reports
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his month, local ice-hockey enthusiasts are gearing up for the Mega Ice Hockey 5’s Tournament (MI5), the biggest youth ice-hockey tournament in Asia. Held annually at Mega Ice at MegaBox in Kowloon Bay since 2008, teams from around Asia descend on the territory, for a week of premier ice hockey. MI5 2013 runs from April 29 to May 4 for the youth divisions, May 7 to May 11 for adults. This year a lot is expected of the DBees junior players – a 30-strong squad based out of Discovery Bay. Chairman Stuart Winchester has high hopes for his club, noting “we have the respect of the league”. To prove his point, in December last year Hong Kong fielded a youth ice-hockey team – the Hong Kong Ice Scrapers – in the Atom Major A division of the Bell Capital Cup which takes place in Ottawa, Canada. Half of the squad comprised DBees.
The DBees Travis Dashkewytch founded the DBees six years ago to help DB children who were interested in ice hockey gain access to the sport. Fabio Lavarone and Mark Hinch, both DB residents, now manage the club. In the early days, the club met at Mega Ice; now the practices, held early on Saturday mornings, take place on the ice at Elements in Kowloon. Children as young as four years old can join the DBees, although the majority of players are age five to 14. Juniors transition into the adult league at 18. While several full-time coaches with various hockey backgrounds contribute to the programme, parents assist in various club capacities including coaching and supervision. Being a parent who played ice hockey as a youngster is a common thread among many involved with the DBees. Canadian-born Darrell Zawada, whose three children all play for the DBees, sees the club as, “a great way for us to introduce our children to our national game. It is a great community programme, both parents and kids enjoy the bus trip and the treats at Starbucks after the practice session.” Phil Sachs, another Canadian-born parent with a son in the DBees says, “I had been playing and coaching [ice hockey] in Beijing and when I was transferred here, I got my son involved first and then began playing adult hockey shortly afterwards. Once my son joined the DBees, I was asked to help train the goalies. I taught at two of the top goalie schools in Canada when I was young and saw a need to help teach the fundamentals to many new [local] goalies.”
Community on ice Coach Mark Hinch giving some of the DBees instructions for the next drill
According to Stuart, there are around 400 young people playing ice hockey competitively in Hong Kong. If the 30
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Coach Stuart Winchester directs a training session
spots on the DBees aren’t filled on a regular basis, then places are offered to non-DB players. The club is also opening up its teams to the charity Society for Community Organisation (SoCO), so that disadvantaged youth have the opportunity to play this fun, fast-paced sport. Ice hockey in Hong Kong, despite the limitations placed on it due to the few ice surfaces available, is well organised. There is the Hong Kong Ice Hockey Association Ltd (HKIHA), which was established in 1980 and is a member of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and an associate member of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China. Then there is the HK Typhoons, which aims to promote and develop hockey in Hong Kong while providing a safe and fun league for children. Its goal is to promote fitness, personal growth, sportsmanship, and life values in the children who play in its league.
Cool skills and benefits “Ice hockey, being a team sport, helps young people learn to work together, and depend on and support each other while working towards a specific set of goals,” comments Phil. “Hockey also improves strength, balance and overall fitness. There is a great deal of strategy and skill involved Francesca Lavarone getting ready for goalie training
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April 2013
www.arounddb.com
ACTION
which adds to the appeal and gives limitless opportunities to learn and improve.” Mark adds, “Ice hockey is a fast-paced, high intensity sport that requires the development of many skills. It is a challenging sport in terms of physical conditioning, commitment and decision making. It also doesn't hurt that a hockey rink offers some respite from a hot, humid Hong Kong day outdoors!” We’ll leave the final say to Stuart. “At the DBees we focus on working on self-esteem, so the kids feel good about themselves. We provide positive reinforcement, making sure the kids enjoy what they are doing. We encourage any young person interested in ice hockey to come on out and check us out.”
Find it • DBees, www.dbeeshockey.com • Hong Kong Ice Hockey Association Ltd (HKIHA), www.hkiha.org • HK Typhoons, www.hktyphoonsicehockey.org • Society for Community Organisation (SoCO), www.soco.org.hk
Coach Darryl Mueller helping the team improve their hand-eye coordination
Seeking sponsorship Two weeks ago, Elements rink informed the DBees that the rental fee for ice-time is going to increase by 100%, from HK$5,000 per hour to HK$10,000 per hour. “As Hong Kong has a limited number of rinks where we can play ice hockey, we are at the mercy of the rink operators,” notes DBees general manager Fabio Lavarone. “We are a non-profit organisation, so all our fees go towards the youngsters playing the sport. We are now pulling out all the stops to raise sponsorship money, so that we can keep on providing ice hockey to the DB community.” If anyone is in a position to sponsor the DBees or make a donation towards the club, please email Fabio at flavarone@netvigator.com.
www.rugbees.com
Photos courtesy of Design + Living Ltd, Dornbracht and Indigo Living
STYLE
vanity
fair
It may be small but there’s every reason the bathroom should be treated like a swan rather than the home’s ugly duckling, says Elizabeth Kerr
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f all the rooms in the home, the bathroom is most likely the freaky sibling in the attic no one talks about. Unless you have a gigantic space, the bathroom is, more often than not, going to be purely functional. But a clean and moderately attractive bathroom is a deal-breaker in a hotel, so why not at home? Residential bathrooms deserve a bit of respect and thought, be it in wholesale redesign or little cosmetic touches.
more important as refuges from the stresses of everyday life, the bathroom has emerged as a refuge within the refuge,” theorises DB designer Cynthia Lie-Breit at Bricks & Mortar. “Until not so long ago it was not unusual for bathrooms to be the smallest room, designed and fitted for utility rather than comfort. Its role as a private sanctuary now comes a very close second [to its primary function].”
Hello home spa And things seem to be heading that way. “Bathrooms have not only grown bigger but they have also become the focus of considerable design attention. As homes have become
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Even in small Hong Kong flats, bathrooms are going increasingly glam. “There is a strong trend in the market
STYLE
Dornbracht’s decadent horizontal shower at colourliving
towards day spas,” begins Dornbracht’s managing director Andreas Dornbracht, whose new decadent horizontal shower drives the idea home. “People enjoy the intimacy of the home.” Combine that with a rising penchant for all things natural, and it’s clear a move toward holistic bathrooms is gaining traction. “The trends in the bathroom are focusing more on the natural and using more raw textures,” adds interior designer David Lai of design + living. “I think living within a concrete environment, we need more green when we have a rest.” And really, what’s more restful than a spa?
Dornbracht’s latest horizontal shower is pricey, but it’s simply hardware; the shower itself will fit into whatever space is available on a reasonable budget. But as Andreas sees it, “The cost of innovation demands we start in the luxury sector. I believe any good idea that is accepted in the high-end market will sooner or later trickle down into other sectors. We were the first to design the contemporary rainshower and now it’s everywhere.” When it comes to redesign, fundamentally small spaces are indeed the biggest, though not insurmountable, hurdles. “Basically, I need to measure the existing area including
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storage, kitchen and bathroom, and try to determine if there is any possibility for space extension, or even merging two different areas into one and making more space,” says David. He’s confident that storage can be created too, given enough novel thinking. Corridor remodelling is an excellent way to make use of dead space if it’s there, and is just one example of a way to get towels and toilet tissue near the actual bathroom. But like most design in Hong Kong, creativity is the key. In the end, a ‘good’ bathroom is one that, “draws in more daylight and uses more clear or frosted glass”, in David’s eyes. “Because the bathroom is part of your house it needs to be semi-transparent, and make the interior space more interactive. I like the space to be an integrated one.” See? Respect. Suggestions aside, David has only one major ‘do’ for your own bathroom design. “Choose the one you like.”
Expanding the bathroom into a corridor at Design + Living
Find more DB-friendly design
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April 2013
Chic bathroom accessories at Indigo Living
www.arounddb.com
BSD
INTERIOR DESIGN CONTRACTING
BSD DESIGN LTD is an interior design and contracting company which has been established in Hong Kong for over 25 years. We specialise in both residential and commercial interiors and pride ourselves on being able to work closely and successfully with our clients. Experience tells us that most professionals appreciate someone who is willing to listen and at the same time offer advice concerning the ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ of of interior decoration. We would be more than happy to talk over your requirements. For more information, please call: Brian Davies 9077 4193; Shirley Leung 9082 4816; Tel: 2567 2562 Fax: 2580 9813 Email: bsddesignhk@gmail.com
STYLE
Goodbye bathroom blues Beautifying a bathroom, even on a budget, is possible. If you have the cash to spare, new tiles will instantly refresh the space. Throw some aesthetically appealing stones in the sink and you have an instant spa vibe. Tea lights, flowers (fresh or faux) and layering rich, coloured towels add to the final look. Of course, you can play with your shower curtain and bath mat as well. “Most bathrooms have either a window ledge or a back of toilet [for accessories], whether they have counter space or just a plain sink,” says Indigo Living CEO John McLennan. “You can also dress up a bathroom with a mirror. Particularly in a guest bathroom where the function of the mirror is important but it’s not used every day. Funk it up with that, or even the light.” John’s a firm believer in ambient lighting over standard, glaring bulbs. Most of Indigo’s pendant lamps are easy to install and don’t require major renovations for anyone looking to jazz up their bathroom. Finally, accessorising a bathroom has its hazards. For various reasons, the room is aromatic. The volume of soaps, shampoos and towels rinsed in fabric softener make for a sizzling olfactory cocktail. Surfaces can be at a premium
and if you have space for flowers, you’ll need to ensure that the vase isn’t perpetually splattered with toothpaste. If the room is short on windows, an ambient aroma that’s less artificial than a Glade Plugin is a must. Scented candles are always an option, and unwrapped scented soaps provide a slow releasing, understated fragrance. For every-day use though, reed diffusers could be the best choice. “They come with 12 sticks. Take it down a bit – one stick, maybe two. It really makes a big difference,” John recommends. “I must admit though, one stick looks a bit sad.” But no sadder than a disrespected bathroom.
Find it • Bricks & Mortar, 2333 8814, www.bricksandmortar.com.hk • David Lai of design + living, 3111 2062, www.dlcchk.com • Dornbracht (at colourliving), 2510 2666, www.colourliving.com, www.dornbracht.com • Indigo Living, 2555 0540, www.indigo-living.com
APRIL 2013
HK HAPPENINGS
What's
new
around
Animal magic at
Ocean Park It’s Animal Month at Ocean Park, so why not treat the kids to a fun-filled and informative day out? They’ll discover how the theme park breeds and cares for its animals, and learn fun facts about animal growth along the way. As well as special behind-the-scenes tours, there are plenty of animal-themed games and competitions on offer. What better time to visit the adorable dolphin calves, join in with penguin-themed interactive shows, view the giant aquariums and of course drop in on Ying Ying and Lee Lee. For more information call Ocean Park on 3923 2323.
Hong
Kong
Fine French
bistro dining A taste of Paris at Metropolitain
A truly authentic Parisian-style bistro, Metropolitain, has just opened its doors in Sai Ying Pun. Open to the street, with cosy seating and a long bar, it certainly looks the part, and your favourite home-cooked French cuisine is prepared right before your eyes at the open kitchen. Chef Frank Lebiez’s classic creations include onion soup, homemade foie gras and tempting traditional casseroles like Boeuf Carotte. Check out the nicely priced set menu available Tuesday through Friday, and the sumptuous weekend brunch. To reserve a table, call 6292 3779.
For all you
The giant aquariums open up a whole new world
fashionistas Designed by Meng Baishen
Ying Ying and Lee Lee at home
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K11’s Designer of the Year, Simon Gao
See fashion and art fuse together in the Paris Fashion and Art Exhibition Fascination/ Imagination, touring Hong Kong this month. The showing at K11 Art Mall Tsim Sha Tsui brings together established stylists, fashion designers, photographers and cinematographers, alongside rising young artists seeking to make a name for themselves. One of the aims is to nurture Asian talent, and you can check out new creations by big-name designers like Alvin Goh, Simon Gao and Charles Guo. Don’t miss the spiritually focused work of emerging Chinese artist Meng Baishen. This year, K11 is being positioned as an international brand, under New World Group. For more information, call Shanice Wong on 2533 9911.
APRIL 2013
HK HAPPENINGS
Compiled by Hannah Ball
International
Pillow Fight Day Ever wondered what it would be like to take part in a pillow fight outside your own bedroom? On April 6, people all over the world will be participating in International Pillow Fight Day – and Hong Kongers are no International Pillow Fight Day, Hong Kong exception. Bring your own pillow (no feathers) to Chater Garden in Central at 4pm and unleash the child within. There’ll be a winner on the day and extra points awarded for the most ridiculous costume. If you can’t think of anything else, why not go in your pyjamas? To check out more photos of last year’s pillow fight, go to www.hongwrong.com/hong-kong-pillow-fight-2013.
Birch at
his best
Be part of
Beertopia Drink ‘til you drop at Beertopia, April 13
Beertopia, Hong Kong’s largest international beer craft festival is back for the second year running. On April 13, West Kowloon Waterfront will be overflowing with beer – almost literally! Discovering a general apathy toward the drink in Hong Kong, Toronto-born Jonathan So is giving people the chance to taste and learn about quality beers, in a fun and lively environment. This year’s festival presents over 200 beers from around the world for your tasting – there’ll also be The Beer Necessities Homebrew Corner, and beer lectures to attend. Make a day of it, and enjoy the live music on the day. To find out more, go to www.beertopiahk.com.
Find local event updates
From Simon Birch’s Hooligan
This month, acclaimed Hong Kong-based artist, Simon Birch is showcasing his latest series Hooligan, a new take on the female form in oil on canvas. Famous not only for his dramatic paintings, Birch has produced overwhelming installations, curated exhibitions, collaborated with leading international artists, and produced high-profile commissioned works. A DJ and graffiti artist, he also part owns Yumla, arguably the most happening bar in Hong Kong. Showing at Ben Brown Fine Arts Gallery in Pedder Building, Central from April 11, Hooligan is a definite must see. Call 2522 9600 for more information.
www.arounddb.com April 2013
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DB FACES
C O M M U N I T Y
S N A P S
Who do you know? Find more familiar faces @ www.arounddb.com
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COMPETITION
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our challenge this month is to find which two of the DB Faces above also appear on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AroundDB). The prize is a complimentary drink at Uncle Russ in DB Plaza every day for a week.
For your chance to win, simply check out the Uncle Russ Competition post on our Facebook page, and note down the number of both photos. Then contact us online via the competitions link at www.arounddb.com (homepage) before April 10. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer. Good luck! Congratulations to last month’s winner David Sheehan. Please contact our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.
Photos by Baljit Gidwani (www.photosdb.net), Tracey van Geest and Amanda Thorsen, Discovery College
If you’d like us to consider your photos for DB Faces, email them to info@arounddb.com (subject line: db faces). Around DB accepts no liability relating to the photos sent.
Alcoholics Anonymous 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 www.aa-hk.org
PRACTICE MANAGER We require a full-time Practice Manager for our family-friendly and rapidly expanding expat Practice Group with 2 practices in Central and one in North Plaza, Discovery Bay. Candidate must have excellent communication, computer, administrative, marketing, general business skills and experience managing staff. Some reception work required at times. The job requires management of all our practices including Discovery Bay. We are currently recruiting for other part-time positions, so if you have any dental experience and living in Discovery Bay, please feel free to call us. Please call Stella/Megan at Bayside Dental Practice on 3481 0210 or email your CV to: info@baysidedentalhk.com Unit 1, G/F Office Block 1 (just pass Wellcome), 92 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay North Plaza www.baysidedentalhk.com
Outdoor Group Training experts now in Discovery Bay! Shred Unwanted Fat Build Lean Muscle Cardio & Strength Training in 1 Workout Classes on the beach front on Tuesdays & Fridays from 8 - 9 am. Don’t miss out!
register online NOW! www.impactfitness.com.hk
Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com COMMUNITY
EMPLOYMENT
DB GREEN DB’s local non-profit environmental group. We focus on recycling, tree planting, have monthly beach clean ups & a stall at the DB flea markets. You are welcome to donate any gently used items for us to sell. For more information or to get involved, visit www.dbgreen.org or our Facebook page
INDONESIAN MALE 24, looking for a job as a helper, gardener or private driver. Speaks English, & has 2 years’ experience as private driver. Please call Riya on 9258 5170
DBEES is DB’s non-profit, community-based ice-hockey team for kids age 5 & up, at any playing level. If your child is interested in playing, please email stuart. winchester@hk.rcm.com or flavarone@netvigator.com. The club is looking for more 5 to 8 year olds to get involved. Check out www.dbeeshockey.com for more information
EMPLOYMENT ARE YOU THE RIGHT SIZE?
European high-end lingerie brand is looking for fitting models sizes 75A to 85F. Fitting upon demand under freelance contract. No previous experienced required. Please contact 2301 5008 or ida.lam@marliesdekkers.com
LOOKING FOR EMPLOYMENT Domestic helper looking for a job, 13 years working experience in HK. Great with babies, children & pets. Very honest & reliable. Can cook & clean. Reference available. Please call 5138 3602
SRI LANKAN HELPER with 15 years’ experience in HK, looking for a new family. Cooks Asian & Western food; is skilled at cleaning, child care & pet care. Please call 9156 8520
FINANCE & INSURANCE AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS 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
DO YOU HAVE AN AUSTRALIAN OR NEW ZEALAND PASSPORT?
Are you interested in saving 30-50% off your Life, Critical Illness & Income Protection insurance premiums? For a no-obligation quote, contact Carolyn on 2827 1199, carolyn.gray@f-p.hk CIB License: 01795
HEALTH & WELLBEING
HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY
KIDS MIDGET GEMS KIDS’ CLUB
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 Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk
HOME & REPAIRS
EXPERT MOVER
• Packing & moving • Cargo collection • Disposal service • Handyman services • Packing material supplies • Storage, with humidity control Professional quality service at a low rate. Contact 2566 4799, sales@expertmover.hk, or visit www.expertmover.hk
Established playgroup for children from 2 to 4 years. Morning sessions with afternoons coming soon. A wonderful environment where children learn through play with our qualified & experienced teachers. Also offering Bilingual Gems, afternoon sessions in German & Mandarin. Please contact 2987 0272, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com
GEMS OCCASIONS
Looking for that perfect party venue for your little gem? A colourful, safe & fun environment with toys & dress-up clothes. We can provide an entertainer. We also tidy up! Please contact 9176 2990, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com
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
WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am
CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME & RDB TEENS
Pastor James Buckner Tel: 2987 7061 wwww.dbicc.org
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Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com KIDS MIDGET GEMS RENTAL
Have an idea for a children’s business? We have a clubroom available for rent, afternoon time slots. Please call Koren on 9176 2990
PETS WOWOW SALON!
Looking good & feeling great from head to tail? More than just a grooming salon, we provide dog-sitting, dog-walking & dog-training services. Please call Kelvin on 6038 9121
design + living
GOOD NEWS FROM PetcoDB!
NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO? Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents
interior architecture design & build
space planning project managment
Tel. 31112062 www.dlcchk.com
dlconsultant@gmail.com
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Micro Bubble Bath using Nano technology for pets is available now. This penetrating clean powers deep into the pores, restoring fur condition, regaining moisture & providing relaxation. No shampoo is used. Recommended for pets with skin allergies, dermatitis & body odour. Call 2914 0382
SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL EDITING SERVICES
Doctor of Edit offers specialised editing & copy-editing services for busy academics, business executives & students. My skills in editing (punctuation, grammar, vocabulary, syntax, etc.) & copy-editing (consistency of style, clarity, fluency, effective & concise language & organisation), extend to PhD theses, manuscripts for journal publication, reports, proposals, brochures, newsletters & speeches. For more details, please contact doctorofedit@gmail.com
TRAVEL
CONCORDE TRAVEL CONSULTANTS
Leisure travel specialists since 1978. Licence No. 350343. Call 2526 3391, or visit www.concorde-travel.com
Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counselors Call 2523 8979 Now for Appointment http://www.resourcecounselling.org Serving the community over 35 years A Member Agency of the Community Chest
Looking for a place to stay?
www.arounddb.com
Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com TUITION & COURSES
TUITION & COURSES
MANDARIN CHINESE LESSONS
CHINESE (MANDARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH
• For children & adults; small groups or individuals • Any level / place / purpose Call DB Mandarin Room on 6071 9643, or visit http://tclearning.sinacool.com
INTENSIVE MODELLING, GLAMOUR & ETIQUETTE COURSE
Taught by a certified modelling trainer, TV presenter & VS in-house model (8 weekends – 2-hour classes) In DB & Central, age 7 & up • Catwalk & glamour • Etiquette & protocol • Make-up & photography • Drama & nutrition Contact LB_MEMODEL@yahoo.com, 9046 7479
MATHEMATICS (GCSE, AS, SAT, IB, GMAT, ETC.) & ENGLISH TUITION
Offered by a London University graduate (First-Class Honours). Experienced in teaching adults, ESF & international school students. Call 9121 0389
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, gracias8@hotmail.com, or visit www.chinesemandarinsite.com
SPANISH LANGUAGE SERVICES
One on one. Any time, any day Intensive courses & IB/ IGCSE tuition services.Translation & interpretation Commercial & tourist guide For Hong Kong & South America. Call 9046 7479
Deadline for May issue Classifieds
April 15
Selling trinkets and treasures for girls and boys, made from only the best materials. www.littlemilly.com | candiceb@littlemilly.com Also available at Toysland, DB and Bizzie Lizzie, Mui Wo For HK orders please contact Candice at 6596 1817
La Petite Enfance Kindergarten is open for registrations for school year 2013-2014. K1 to K3 classes available. French curriculum as per the French Ministry of National Education with English and Mandarin as additional languages. For more information, please call 6710 0391 or email us at info@la-petite-enfance.com
L’Ecole Pierre et Marie Curie is open for registrations for school year 2013-2014. Full-time French Primary One (CP) and Primary Two (CE1) classes available. French curriculum as per the French Ministry of National Education with English and Mandarin as additional languages. For more information, please call 6071 3136 or visit our website at www.pmcuriehk.com or send an e-mail at info@pmcuriehk.com.
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Find out more @ www.arounddb.com PROPERTY DB
PROPERTY DB
SHORT-TERM LET
DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS
Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony. Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Brian on 9098 6951, brian@headlandhomes.hk
For lease. Fully furnished 1-2-bed apartments with beautiful decor, wi-fi & broadband. Well-equipped kitchen, luxurious bedding, weekly cleaning service. Contact Cherry on 2987 2626, cherry@appletravel.com
MODERN FLAT FOR SHORT- OR MEDIUM-TERM RENTAL
STUDIO FOR SHORT-TERM LET
Fully furnished, 1 bed plus study with extra beds & fully equipped kitchen. Sleeps 4. Broadband, wi-fi, DVD, LCD TV & split A/C. Linen & towels provided. Serviced twice a week. Contact 6475 2035, sharmilaproperty@ gmail.com or visit www.dbayhillsuites.com
GREENDALE COURT RENTAL Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525
Comfortable, nicely decorated studio, close to DB Plaza & pier, with fully equipped kitchen. 37” TV, DVD, wi-fi, linens & towels provided. Contact 9190 7348, niceroom_db@yahoo.com.hk
SHORT-TERM RENTAL Greenery Court, 553’, 1-bedroom flat, newly renovated, modern & fully furnished with internet, LCD TV & DVD. Contact Sandy on 9654 8862, sandylamdb@yahoo.com.hk
LUXURY MODERN FLATS TO LET Short- or medium-term rental at Siena 2. 600’ 1-bed flats with sea views, near the North Plaza, Club Siena & tunnel. Serviced & fully furnished with washer/ dryer, bed linen & kitchenware. Plus wi-fi, broadband, blue-ray & home theatre. Contact 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com
2-BED APARTMENT FOR RENT At Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished. Contact 9108 5525
PROPERTY OVERSEAS FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED RENTAL Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view. Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished. Call Tiareti on 9732 8985
FIVE VILLAS IN PHUKET Three-bed villas with pool for rent. Ten minutes from Phuket International Airport. On the 8th hole of Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa. Contact 8thonmissionhills.com, 8thonmissionhills@gmail.com
CHERISH COURT TO LET Fully furnished 2-bedroom, newly renovated flat. Tranquil with sea & Disneyland view, & wi-fi. Photos available. Contact Jacqueline at 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com
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
FLAT FOR RENT 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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Search 1000s of DB property listings!
@ www.arounddb.com
Looking for investment opportunity? 4/F., Lee Fund Centre, No. 31 Wong Chuk Hang Road, HK E-mail: grea@grea.com.hk C-049044
South lsland Industrial & Office Sales / Lease
Developers Designated Agencies Marinella South of Island Luxury by Nature
The Photographs, images, drawings or sketches of the property shown above only represent the artist’s imaginative impression of the development concerned. They are not drawn to scale and/or may have been edited and processed with computerised imaging techniques. Prospective purchasers should make reference to the sales brochure for details of the development. The developer also advises purchasers to conduct on-site visit for a better understanding of the development site, its surrounding environment and the public facilities nearby.
Southmark 871’~11,439’ @11All-in/@6500up
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Tin Fung Mansion 7,877’~17,857’ @4500
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Ag
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• Lorry Parking • A Grade commercial office
• High efficiency • Potential Acquisition Harbour Industrial Ctr 1,010’~2,800’ @5,200 up
• Quiet location • Spacious loft
• Good for Storage • High Investment Regency Centre 1,804’~3,964’ @13.5
• Multi Purpose Industrial Centre
Sungib Ind. Ctr. 6,009’ 36M
en
Ag
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Shui Ki Ind. Bldg. 3,927’ 23.98M
One Island South 704’~6,601’ @20/@11K
• Nearly MTR Exit • Enjoyable view of Ocean Park Aberdeen Ind. Bldg. 3,150’ 15M
• Convenient Location • Seldom Available
Sing Teck Ind. Bldg. 1,927’ 9.5M
• Floor with Flat Roof
Grand Marine Center 1,852’~3,815’ 25M
• Water Front View • 3 sides of windows
Hing Wai Ctr. 1,240’~28,000’ about @10/@4400 up
• Sea & Mountain View • Central A/C
• Vacant Possession • Whole Floor
Derrick Ind. Bldg. 2193’ 14.28M
• Mountain View
9326 3293 / 6401 8889 2527 0911 Jeff
(S-130432)
Jacqueline (S-398189)
24 hours hotline April 2013
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ACROSS LANTAU
BUSINESS OF THE MONTH This issue, we want to draw your attention to fashion boutique ZenvarA HK in Cheung Sha Upper Village. A real hit with Lantau ladies, the driving concept is ‘relaxed glamour from day to night’. We talk to owner Anita Beevers about her blossoming business. •
When did you start up ZenvarA HK and what makes it unique? ZenvarA HK first launched in July 2012. It’s a unique brand in that it offers a gorgeous range of styles that can take you from day to evening. Perfect for our Lantau and Hong Kong lifestyle of relaxed lunches and dinners, beach or junk trips, and glamorous nights, the clothes will make you feel comfortable as well as stylish. Our stunning fashion lines sourced globally combine beautifully soft, flowing voiles, silks and organic cottons. You will love the gorgeous hand embellishments, and the use of lace and alluring prints and colours.
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What inspired you to start up the business? My inspiration came after travelling extensively throughout Asia and Australia, and seeing the work of so many amazing fashion designers, whose designs fit so perfectly into our own outdoor/ beach lifestyle. I was also motivated by the need I saw locally for affordable yet super-stylish clothing. Here in Hong Kong, Zara and H&M seemed like the only choices available if you didn’t want to spend a fortune on comfortable, stylish clothing. I dreamt up ZenvarA HK to fit this market. The lines on offer won’t break the bank and they are also made to last.
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How did you first get the word out? Living in South Lantau, I am from a small, close and very supportive community. I started by emailing everyone I knew and waited for interest to build. Facebook has also been a great marketing tool. From the offset, the ladies in Lantau loved the clothing and jewellery on offer and kept coming back for more! I continue to rely on word of mouth, and I also host plenty of Shopping and Bubbles events at my house. I have also immersed myself in the local bazaar and fair circuit, which has proved a fantastic way to raise brand awareness.
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How has the business expanded? The ever-increasing demand for ZenvarA HK has allowed me to introduce a fabulous new range of clothing and jewellery for Spring/ Summer 2013. I am very excited to be bringing on board some incredible new designers never seen before in Hong Kong.
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What are your future plans for ZenvarA HK? I’m intent on developing wider brand awareness for ZenvarA HK. The brand is continually evolving but I want to continue to provide amazing fashion that the ‘real women’ of Hong Kong can wear on a daily basis and feel stylish in. Ultimately, I want to continue making all our local ladies feel fabulous.
Contact Anita Beevers at 9586 3459, email anitabeevers@zenvara.com Track ZenvarA HK events on the Facebook page http://on.fb.me/KVhaH2
Open every Friday: 9.30am-4.30pm or by appointment
Your ultimate guide in Tung Chung and South Lantau TUNG CHUNG
SOUTH LANTAU
CLOTHINGS & ACCESSORIES
AQ Prettiness Jumping Castles Shoesee Foldable
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
9527 6202 9662 1747 9765 2798 HEALTH & WELL-BEING
Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre Island Veterinary Services Ltd Pets Central Tung Chung Maternal & Child Health Centre Quality Health Dental Quality Health Medical Raffles Medical
2109 9396 2109 2288 2988 1534 2328 7282 2109 6800 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626
HOME & REPAIRS
Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering
2421 8088 9625 1392 2988 1488 HOTELS
Novotel Citygate Regal Airport Hotel SkyCity Marriott
3602 8888 2890 6060 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
5360 0991 2987-8070 2162 5538 6273 7347 6976 8867 3520 3500 2611 9193 6204 7387 2420 1068 2109 3873 2109 4000 3194 5120 2988 8123
RESTAURANTS & BARS
Airport Izakaya Andante Asian Taste Deli Viet Bistro Delifrance Café Aficionado China Coast Bar & Grill Dragon Inn Erawan Essence Federal Palace Restaurant McDonald’s Delivery Moccato Olea Pizza Hut Regala Café & Dessert Bar Rouge Skycity Bistro Spaghetti House Starz Wine Bar Zentro Garden
2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4360 2109 0036 2109 4187 2286 6238 2286 6898 2286 6878 3760 6633 3602 8808 2626 0181 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 3180 0000 2286 6618 2286 6868 2969 2500 2109 1297 2109 0612 2802 8000
SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT
Caribbean Coast Club House Coastal Skyline Club House Impact Fitness Seaview Crescent Club House Smash Cricket Socatots Stepz Studio Tung Chung Crescent Club House
2109 9277 2179 6678 6902 2250 3473 8700 5400 4109 2385 9677 3152 7535 2403 6770
UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES
Tung Chung Ambulance Depot Tung Chung Fire Station Tung Chung Police Station
LANTAU NUMBERS
2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1694
Dalcroze Impact Fitness Jill Marshall Pilates South Lantau Paddle Club Tony’s Salon
6627 4806 9473 3976 9708 0187 6770 1462 2984 0990 HOME & REPAIRS
Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering Mantech Electrical Strong Engineering Wah Sing AV Company
2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 2819 6823 9373 0792 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 0069 2984 0302 3689 6709 2984 0006
PROPERTY AGENCIES
Easy Reach Real Estate Home Solutions Proper Trip Real Estate
2984 0618 3483 5003 2984 1666 RESTAURANTS & BARS
Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bombay Café Casa Brasil Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar High Tide Restaurant La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Rome Restaurant Sun Fat Restaurant Tak Chai Kee Seafood The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep
2984 0222 2984 1847 2984 7471 2984 0498 2984 9720 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 6331 8974 2984 7982 2984 0418 2984 1265 2983 8931 2980 2582 9160 5986 2980 2699 RETAIL
Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Bizzie Lizzie (childrens clothes and toys) Friendly Bike Shop Red Hall Chinese Antiques Renge House (clothes & accessories) The Red Lantern ZenvarA
2134 1234 2984 2227 2984 2278 2988 1368 2406 8122 2987 0099 9586 3459
SERVICES & OTHERS
Hop Sing Automobile Jumping Castles SPCA Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio) Zoe Lyle Photography
2984 1410 9662 1747 2984 0060 9025 3949 9062 0148 6351 8923 9834 5498 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 9036 3132
Your ultimate guide in DB
DB NUMBERS
Discovery Speech Therapy Cabinet d’Orthophonie Clear Communication in French LG-06, Office Block One, DB North Tel: 8120 7835 info@discoveryspeechtherapy.com Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza BMSE, North Plaza Catholic Church (Trinity Chapel) DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Discovery Speech Therapy, Cabinet d’Orthophonie Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Healthcare Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza
LEARNING CENTRES
HOME
COMMUNITY & HEALTH
2987 0855 2259 3422 2988 1515 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 8120 7835 2666 6183 2834 7276 2987 7575 2987 9003 2259 3422
Interior 18 Japan Home Centre Marc James Design, North Plaza Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Season Art Kitchen Perfection Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre
2987 7803 2987 1041 2765 5700 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2987 1990 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428
Island Dance Freestyle, Jazz, Ballet & Tap Tel: 2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk
LEARNING CENTRES
Musical Drama – Acting – Musical Theatre
French kindergarten open for registrations for school year 2013-2014 from K1 to K3. LG-05, DB North Plaza Tel: 6710 0391 Email: info@la-petite-enfance.com www.la-petite-enfance.com
Tues & Wed classes at Discovery College 4 to 12 yrs - 2 fully costumed performances a year Tel: 8122 9475 Email: admin@actingantics.com www.actingantics.com
Little Explorers A fun place for little ones to play and have loads of fun, fun, fun!
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
Tel: 9327 0507 Email: littleexplorers@team-fear.com
Bayview House of Children
Early Childhood Educational Center (Bilingual English-Mandarin) 12 months to 6 years old For details call Ramesha on 6114 2436 ramesha@bayview.hk; www.bayview.hk
Lullaby Layette Online Boutique for Newborns & Infants Tel: 5600-7605, info@lullabylayette.com www.lullabylayette.com
rush yoga ∙ fitness ∙ swim G/F, G35, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay Tel: 2526 0720 Mon–Sun: 10:30am to 7:30pm www.rush.com.hk
Playgroups, parties, art-jamming and art classes for all ages!
International Bodyfit Swimwear Exercise and Yoga Wear
Tel: 2325 3999
2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098
DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven Convenience Store Fusion by PARKnSHOP GNC Just Green Mannings Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome
2987 4401 2987 7486 2987 9331 2448 1180 2987 1720 2987 4089 2947 9092
FINANCIAL SERVICES
AlcaMat Financial & Accounting Services Ltd Accounting & Taxation, Business & Operation Consulting, China Trade Advisory, Company Formation & Secretarial, Immigration Assistance Tel: 2851 8081, info@alcamat.com, www.alcamat.com
HSBC Travelex Money Exchange, North Plaza Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd
2233 3000 2682 1210 2987 1851
HOME Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co
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2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 0061 2987 5087
April 2013
Tel: 2987 0272 info@ midgetgemskidsclub.com www.midgetgemskidsclub.com
British Studio of Art Hong Kong
Sunwood by Design
In Style Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic Start-rite shoes
Established playgroup for children 2-4 years
New art studio in DB for 2 year-olds to adults www.bsoahk.com bsoahk@gmail.com Tel: 9132 5249
ColourStorm Art Centre
Tel: 6626 5470 www.sunwood-by-design.com
Midget Gems Kid’s Club
Address: LG-10, Office Block One, DB North Plaza. www.colourstormartcentre.com
Craftybabes
Sensory Play for Babies, Toddler Art and Craft, Adult Craft Evenings. Located in the Plaza. Tel: 9239 6447 Email: crafty.babes@hotmail.com, www.craftybabes.com
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 Tel: 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com www.dumpertrucksanddaisies.com
First Friends & Second Friends DB’s largest & longest running playgroup Iin Porter 9151 5545 firstsecondfriends@yahoo.com www.firstfriendshk.com
Playtime Kids DB
Playgroup run by Montessori trained teacher. From 18 months to 4 years. Tel: 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School Discovery Montessori School DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Learning Centre HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten Treasure House
2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2914 2202 2987 1201 2987 4338 9511 2107 2416 3088 8191 0813 2987 8608 2987 0813 2987 8143 2987 4217
MULTIMEDIA Bookazine, DB Ferry Dymocks & Gallery Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd Fun to Read, North Plaza Movieland Pen’n Paper P-Solution The Bookshop
2987 1373 2987 8494 2914 2378 3105 3588 2987 7111 2987 8898 2987 1777 2987 9372
OTHER SERVICES
Apple Travel The Best Travel Agency in DB
HK School of Highland Dance
Tel: 2987 2626
Highland Dance classes now available at MI Studio.Teacher qualified by the SDTA.
Email: cas@appletravel.com
All ages welcome Tel: 9123 0863 Email: highlanddancehk@gmail.com
Around DB's May 2013 issue coming out
May 1
DB NUMBERS OTHER SERVICES
RESTAURANTS, COFFEE SHOPS Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zak’s
At Home in DB Information & Services for Residents of DB. Expat Relocation, Newcomer Orientation, Tours, Courses, Networking
2682 8108 2987 6232
SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT
Tel: 9769 4701 Email: sue@athomeindb.com www.athomeindb.com
Women’s Fitness Centre Club Siena Tel: 2987 0772 curvesdb@gmail.com www.curves.com
International Canadian Law Firm in DB North Plaza offering you customised legal services on the many aspects of your personal and professional life
Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more!
Tel: 2416 8618 www.harveylawcorporation.com
Tel: 6624 7812
Grooming & Pet Services Wth Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love Tel: 2914 0382 Email: info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com Amity Shoe Care My Pet Shop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services
HK Dragons Football Club Football for 2.5- to 14- year old girls and boys Tel: 2987 4274 www.dragons.hk
2987 4538 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151
Movement Improvement Pilates, yoga, posture & fitness 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk
REAL-ESTATE AGENCIES
DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Rehabus Wiselink Golf Cart Services
2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351 2987 6348 2987 0208 6283 9270 2987 9368
UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES
embody-hk@live.com www.embody.com.hk
PetcoDB
Limousine Rental
Limo service in HK & China pick up from / to DB Tunnel direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport Tel: 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@gmail.com
Curves
Harvey Law Group
TRANSPORT SERVICES
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 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
3651 2345 2728 8333 2678 2678 2987 4242 2987 7502 2238 3601 2525 6798 2238 3388 2987 4052 2987 6046 2435 4511 2988 2369 2987 6738 2835 1473 2811 0788 2824 5000
WELLBEING
Body Talk
Sportsmanship Gymnastics Programs, Health Consultancy, Weight Management & Nutritional Supplements Tel: 2870 3524 www.sportsmanship.usana.com
Lifestyle Homes Tel: 2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Casa Real Estate Ltd Centaline Property Agency Ltd EPS Property Consultants Ltd Headland Homes Hong Kong Boats & Homes Kingsland DB Land Master Property Savills Hong Kong Ltd
2914 2987 2987 8484 2987 2023 2987 2088 6055 0146 2987 2987 2987 6238 2987 1919
Sports World All your sporting needs right here in DB Tel: 2914 1323 Email: bruce@sportsworld.hk
RESTAURANTS, COFFEE SHOPS
Tinytots A professional sports play program specially designed for children 16 months - 5 years of age. Tel: 34887724 info@tinytots.com.hk www.tinytots.com.hk
% Arabica Coffee Roaster & Farm DB North Plaza Tel: 2885 1323 Email: info@arabica.hk www.arabica.hk 22º North Berliner Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Ebeneezer’s First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Kiraku Tei Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery Life Cafe McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Solera Sopranos Subway Super Super Uncle Russ, DB Plaza
2987 2298 2987 8203 2987 0966 2987 2848 2987 0036 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 2886 2987 0767 2987 1829 2591 1422 2987 8280 2987 1337 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2555 0772 2987 2915 2914 0005 2914 1308 2682 0068
Holistic therapy for illness, stress, sports injury & learning disorders Tel: 6683 5755 angie@bodytalksystem.com.hk www.bodytalksystem.com.hk
Club Siena Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club Spin Works
2987 7382 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381 5145 2776
TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES
DB Party Lovers
Child & Family Development Practice Developing potential, exploring possibilities www.childdevelopment.com.hk info@childdevelopement.com.hk
Gillian - The Skin Therapy Centre Fully qualified International Beauty Spa /wellness trainer with over 16 yrs experience in the Spa industry offering full range of beauty services here on DB Tel: 9604 6920, 2987 0764 (Gillian) www.theskintherapycentrehk.com
M Spa Provides door-to-door treatment service. Conveniently located in the Plaza. Reflexology, massage, pedicure/manicure. Tel: 2987 0614
For all your party needs in DB Tel: 9132 5249 Email: dbpartylovers@gmail.com www.dbpartylovers.com
Nailed It
Little Milly Trinkets & treasures for girls and boys Tel: 6596 1817 candiceb@littlemilly.com www.littlemilly.com Bo Bo House Toysland
2987 4230 2987 7859
Professional artificial nail services in DB Tel: 2987 2266 Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care MOW Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch Spa Siena
April 2013
2987 0283 2987 2060 2499 8826 2987 4112 2987 9198 2987 7382
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Photo by Baljit Gidwani (www.photosdb.net)
DB MOMENTS
race for sight To celebrate their son’s complete remission from eye cancer, DB parents run with a clear vision for those without. Hannah Ball takes a look
O
n April 21 long-term DB residents, Julian and Alison Wyatt are competing in the London Marathon to support the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT). Their youngest son Toby was diagnosed with medulloepithelioma, a rare and highly aggressive form of eye cancer at the tender age of four; now aged 10 he has been in complete remission since last September. “We want to run this marathon for several reasons,” Alison explains. “Firstly, we want people to know the facts about childhood eye cancer, and how to recognise the signs. We want anyone going through it to know that children can recover and still have a perfectly normal and healthy life. Secondly, we want to raise money for CHECT which has been so incredibly helpful in giving us information and support. The charity needs funding to continue its awareness campaigns – this is such an unknown form of cancer that only affects young children.”
Photos courtesy of Alison Wyatt
Alison goes on to explain how Toby was first diagnosed in the summer of 2007. After returning from a holiday, Toby complained of a slight headache. Two days later, his headache reappeared, accompanied by acute pain in the left eye. After a visit to Dr Winnie Siu at Island Health, he was rushed to the Adventist Hospital in Hong Kong. That same evening, Toby was diagnosed with eye cancer. “We were told that the tumour had probably been growing for at least 12 months and that it was too large for the eye to be saved,” Alison recalls. Dr Christopher Yu, the leading eye specialist in Hong Kong, went on to perform a groundbreaking operation, whereby Toby was given a ‘new’ left eye that looks perfectly natural. Toby was back at school within three weeks. “It helped that he had such a supportive teacher, and that his friends were
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April 2013
all very understanding,” Alison says. “Toby also has two older siblings who both knew he was sick, but never treated him any differently. They were always very down-to-earth with him, and above all, they’ve supported him throughout the whole experience.” Although Toby has lost all sight in his left eye, he still has a 70% field of vision. Now in Year 5 at Discovery Bay International School, he is very active. “He just gets on with life; he can do everything,” remarks Alison. “He plays sports and goes skiing every year; he loves to sing and act and take part in any event going.” In fact, earlier this year, Toby wowed audiences as Pharaoh in the school’s production of Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat. Julian and Alison are running the London Marathon to celebrate Toby’s complete remission. In the lead up to the 26.2-mile run, they have been training five days a week, following a strict regime of long and short runs, cross-training, hill-training and speed-tempo training. Two mornings a week they start their workout at 5.15am. “We emailed Fiona Heath, CHECT’s fundraising manager, asking if we could run the marathon in support of CHECT, and she could not have been more helpful,” explains Alison. “Each year the charity is designated 10 to 15 spaces at the event. We were very excited to be given the opportunity to run for such a great charity.”
Find it • Visit the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT) to understand more about childhood eye cancer and how it is diagnosed, www.chect.org.uk • Read more about Toby’s story and make a donation to CHECT, www.justgiving.com/JAWyatt
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