BLAZING A
BURNING THE
TRAIL
MIDNIGHT OIL
DB’S BRUCE PYE MASTERS THE MARATHON DES SABLES
YEAR 13 STUDENTS REVEAL THE RIGOURS AND REWARDS OF THE IB
W in t Soc ickets cer HK t W S o th C h o e l s h M eve n s e , ir a Mus , Footlo le Voic i e o c Wh a t a al a n d s e t h e L ov O ely h, War !
MAY 2 014
o c E
alert!
Beach-art protest to protect Lantau’s glorious marine life Join your community online @ www.arounddb.com
Publishers in DB since 2002
MAY 2014
海澄湖畔 SIENA
$17K
逸澄閣 PEACEfuL
$21K
明蔚徑 PARKLAND
$55K/16M
T
EN
G EA
L
SO
Gross: 553’ Saleable: 442’ 1 1
Gross: 890’ Saleable: 631’
Charming lowrise apartment with garden, suitable for individual or couple, rare in market.
海澄湖畔 SIENA
$63K/17.3M
2
Fully renovated with open kitchen. Spacious bedrooms. Conveniently located for all amenities.
1
海蜂徑 SEABEE
Gross: 1442’ Saleable: 1153’ 3 2
$7M
3
Modern townhouse, full sea views, terrace, balcony and private roof.
2
尚堤 CHIANtI
Gross: 919’ Saleable: 776’ 3 2
Good location. Minutes away from all transport and amenities. High floor with sea view. Vacant sale!
尚堤 CHIANtI
$68K
2
$15.5M/65K
$7.8M
Nicely renovated, good condition with balcony. 24 hr Concierge service. A must see!
2
倚濤軒 CREStMONt VILLA
$16.5M
$105K
Gross: 2075’ Saleable: 1995’ 3 3
Absolutely stunning beach front unit with large terrace. Best location. Perfect condition. Must see!
海燕徑 SEABIRD LANE
Gross: 1163’ Saleable: 904’ 3
Renovated lowrise with small garden. Quiet area, close to all transport.
海馬徑 SEAHORSE
Gross: 1642’ Saleable: 1406’
Renovated lowrise, spacious layout with garden. Close to school & club Siena. Ready to move into
康慧台 HILLGROVE
Gross: 1176’ Saleable: 1103’ 3
$11.2M
Gross: 1280’ Saleable: 962’ 3 2
Beautifully renovated throughout. In the most popular location of DB. Great investment.
蘅欣徑 CAPERIDGE DRIVE
$18.7M
T
EN
G EA
L
SO
Gross: 2128’ Saleable: 1641’ 4 2
Combined unit. Practical layout with open plan kitchen. 24hr concierge service. Vacant Sale!
Gross: 1707’ Saleable: 1436’ 3 2
Nicely renovated, commanding unblocked sea view. Large roof terrace. For sale with tenancy.
Gross: 1600’ Saleable: 1405’ 3 2
Completely renovated family home with grass garden offering sea views. For sale with tenancy.
Brazil’s
Secret BEST-KEPT
Discerning customers all over the world and now in Asia, are increasingly looking for safer smoothening treatments and asking for Discovery by Ybera Professional.
The
first keratin smoothening treatment to use award-winning apple stem cell technology,
SUPER
Smooth
Discovery is the best-selling smoothening product on the Brazilian market, and contains natural active ingredients. Utilising the stem cells of a rare Swiss apple
Hair
Lustrous
which is famed for its regenerative power, Discovery acts directly on the hydrogen bonds within the hair strands, to provide an advanced smoothening action, whilst actively re-conditioning damaged or weakened hair, to leave hair healthy, glossy and with an intense, mirror-like shine. Exclusively distributed by the Asia Division of Ybera Professional, based right here in Discovery Bay, Discovery is now available in leading salons throughout Hong Kong.
Key Benefits:
The Ybera ‘Hair Clinic’ in Discovery Bay For a limited period only, Ybera Professional’s Asia Director, Aline Jahns, is offering complimentary hair care consultations at the Ybera
* COMBATS FRIZZ
Professional Technical Centre in DB North Plaza. Aline will conduct
* REDUCES VOLUME
a review of your hair and scalp condition to identify your key hair
* GIVES EXTRAORDINARY SHINE
concerns and recommend a course of treatment, for you to undertake at home or with your regular hair Stylist.
* STRENGTHENS & PROTECTS • MOISTURISES & RESTORES * LASTS UP TO 3 MONTHS*
0% FORMALDEHYDE** SAFE TO USE ON PREGNANT WOMAN & CHILDREN
To book a consultation, please contact 9333 0574 or for more information please visit www.ybera.com.hk
F OLLOW US F OR MORE HAI R TI PS & NEW S: YBERA HONG KONG
YBERA_ASIA
YBERA_ASIA
* In-salon smoothing treatment lasts up to 3 months. Continuous At-Home use will progressively improve the condition of the hair. ** Certified with SGS number
Summer time at
Waterball Startrite Fitted Shoes
$179 Australian Cancer Council Sun Care Range
from
Zoggs Swim Jackets 2yrs+
$398
$109
Giraffe Spray Pool
All Surface Netball Sand & Water Toys
$299 Pool Jet
$899
from
$165
RID & Mike Mossie Insect Repellents
from
$88
Sun Shade Pool
Weber Lights & Sounds BBQ
$169
$399
$325
Alphabet Game Crocket Jr
Noughts & Crosses Froggy Fun Baby Pool
$179 $450
$225 $150
Platypus Disc Deluxe Swimwear & Hats
Create Your Own Crayon Puzzles
$175
from
$199
$1,290 $135 from
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
www.facebook.com/bumpstobabeshk
MAY 2014 FEATURES 28 PROFILE Joey Lee and Doug Pieterse of 9 Dragons Fitness, Tung Chung 32 IN FOCUS Boosting your immune system with optimum nutrition 40 FAMILY MATTERS How Lantau teens survive the IB Diploma
28
45 MONEY MATTERS Teaching kids the financial facts of life 52 ESCAPES Climbing Mount Kinabalu 58 ACTION DB uber-athlete Bruce Pye conquers the Marathon des Sables 65 LIFESTYLE At home in DB with Stella Eloff
REGULARS 18 COMPETITIONS Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com
32
48 TALKING POINTS The Cheung Chau Bun Festival 50 HEALTH Choosing the right mattress 72 DB FACES Candid community snaps 84 OUT THERE Thoughts on island life
AGENDA 10 IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news
58
40
20 ACROSS LANTAU What’s happening island wide 69 HK HAPPENINGS Hot stuff from across the harbour 74 CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, businesses and more 78 PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent 81 LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau
48
OUR THE RIG REVEAL S OF THE IB ARD AND REW
L TRAI BRUCE PYE
DB’S THE MASTERS DES SABLES MARATHON
Readers with a feature story idea, please email editor@arounddb.com If you would like to publicise a local event, email hannah@arounddb.com For general enquiries, email info@arounddb.com To advertise, email lissa@arounddb.com AROUND DB, Bay Media Ltd, 7E Glamour Court, Discovery Bay Call 2987 0577 | Fax 2987 0533
For the latest AROUND DB updates, find us on
20
THE BURNING
L GHT OI TS MIDNI STUDEN S YEAR 13
A BLAZING
Facebook,
014 MAY 2
Ecoalert! t protest
Beach-ar Join your
ON THE COVER
Win ticke ts to the Socc HK Wels er Sevens, Choir, h Male Voice Footl Musical oose the and What a Love Oh, ly War!
t Lantau’s
to protec
ww online @ community
.com w.arounddb
glorious
Eco art on Lower Cheung Sha Beach
marine life Publishers
in DB since
2002
Photo by Albert Ling
Twitter and www.arounddb.com
Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@arounddb.com Editor Rachel Ainsley editor@arounddb.com
YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY EVENTS!
Photos by Terry Chow and Michael Denker
Editorial coordinator Hannah Ball hannah@arounddb.com Advertising Lissa Morris lissa@arounddb.com Art direction Terry Chow cckterrychow@gmail.com Photography Baljit Gidwani www.photosdb.net Nancy Paddison npaddison@gmail.com Illustration Fred Boot Rift Leschinsky Accounts Rebecca Wong accountant@arounddb.com Contributors this month Talla Buffery (intern) Angie Bucu Ellen Cannon Jane Clyde Jordan Connery Joe Dobbs Elizabeth Kerr Kathryn Plews Peter Sherwood Nic Tinworth Cecilia Yee
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.
WORLD-CLASS GOLF IN DB On April 16, DB Golf Club hosted the Hong Kong leg of the Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup. An amateur golf event on a global scale, the 2014 series has expanded to 50 qualifying events taking place in 35 different countries! Kudos to Terence Lau and Freddy Yip who finished first and second in the individual ‘Stableford’ competition in DB; they will go on to compete in the Grand Final in Turkey, this November.
Hosting the Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup! Organising a hunt for 30,000 Easter eggs! And celebrating with Marathon des Sables’ For more conquering event photos hero Bruce visit the Pye! It’s photo gallery at www.arounddb.com all been happening in DB!
IN&AROUND DB
Easter FUN!
Congratulations BRUCE!
On April 18 and 19, some 3,000 children hunted for 30,000 eggs hidden in the sand on Tai Pak Wan. (There was also a Happy Bunny Egg-hunting Party on April 18 at Club Siena.) Over the long weekend, kids and adults enjoyed games and stalls at the fun fair in DB Plaza, and the DBN Easter Family Kingdom in DB North Plaza.
Photos by Hannah Ball and courtesy of DBRC
Photos courtesy of Sports World and www.marathondessables.co.uk
Sports World’s managing director, DB resident Bruce Pye ran 240 kilometres through the Moroccan Sahara to complete the Marathon Des Sables, April 6 to 12. Bruce finished an incredible 58th out of 917 finishers in just over 31 hours. Talk about endurance! To read more about Bruce’s epic journey, turn to page 58.
May 2014
11
IN&AROUND DB
YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
www.mrthang.net/2010/07/11/mot-thoi-patin
INLINE SKATING
May 11
championships
Kids aged five to 12 can register now for the Discovery Bay 2014 Inline Skating Championships, sponsored by Sports World and organised by the Lantau Buffalos. Starting at Siena Park at 2.30pm, participants can choose between the 250-metre sprint and the 1,650-metre marathon. The enrolment fee is HK$100 before May 9, and HK$150 on race day. For more information and to sign up, visit www.lantaubuffalos.org.
OZZIE COZZIE
May 10-11
roadshow
Sign up for a table-tennis tournament, or a couples’ fitness challenge! Get the kids rollerblading and playing field hockey! Attend a talk on cancerfree living, or Naturopathic Detox! Celebrate Mother’s Day! And visit a new-and-improved www.arounddb.com. It’s all happening this month in DB! Friend us
on Facebook for event reminders
May 11 HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY
to all the wonderful mums of DB and Lantau!
For cool summer-wear from Australia, New Zealand, the US and Hong Kong, stop by the Ozzie Cozzie Roadshow at OpenSpace, DB North Plaza, from 10am to 6pm. www.ozziecozzieco.com
Advice on
May 11 SHOP THE HANDMADE HONG KONG bazaar in DB Plaza from 11am until 6pm.
May 11 JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP
at Nim Shue Wan, 1pm to 4pm, with DB Green and Plastic Free Seas.
12
May 2014
May 12
-Free LIVING
Attend Healthy Living in DB’s Cancer-Free Living talk by Graham Player from 7pm to 8.30pm at DB Multi-Purpose Hall. Graham, a Hong Kong based cancer researcher and author, is the founder of Naturally Cancer Free (www.naturallycancerfree.com). He will discuss beneficial nutrition, supplementation, lifestyle changes and more. Attendees pay HK100. To sign up for Graham’s lecture, and find out about other Healthy Living in DB talks being held in May, visit the Healthy Living in DB Facebook page.
IN&AROUND DB
Fitness Challenge
FOR COUPLES
May 17
TABLE TENNIS
8 May 1
tournament
Club Siena’s annual Table Tennis Tournament takes place from 9am to 7pm at the club’s Dance Studio. The tournament, for club members only, is comprised of five sections – Junior, Youth, Senior, Open, and Parent and Child. You need to enrol before May 11. The entrance fee costs between HK$55 and HK$140, depending on your chosen section. To find out more, visit www.dbrc.hk.
www.running.about.com
Sponsored by Hong Kong Yachting and organised by long-term DB resident Andrew Tasker, the Couples Fitness Challenge starts at DB North Plaza with a 5-kilometre run to Siena Pitch, where competitors can expect a series of strength-bodyweight challenges. The course finishes with a 200-metre swim and an inflatable obstacle course. Prizes include a twonight stay at The Sarann in Koh Samui, Thailand for the winners! For more information, visit the Couples Fitness Challenge Facebook page; to register, visit www.morechaos.com.
Photo courtesy of DBRC
DB BUS STOP relocating
Photo by Terry Chow
Due to construction work (more shopping areas being built), the Transport Department is planning to move the Discovery Bay bus terminus in Tung Chung to the other side of the road. But following protests by DB Islands District Council Member Amy Yung, Dr Francis Chiu, Chairman of Siena 2B Village Owners' Committee and other DB residents, the Transport Department is considering a more convenient location (near MTR Exit D and the Lantau taxi stand). For updates, look to the Around DB Facebook page or call the DB Transportation Division on 2987 7351.
Join the Lantau community online
AT THE ALL-NEW www.arounddb.com Check out Around DB’s brand-new website, providing everything you need to know about Discovery Bay, Tung Chung and South Lantau. You’ll find it supereasy to navigate as each Lantau district now has its own dedicated section, with a fully comprehensive business directory and property listings. Browse: • Local directories (schooling, medical centres, activities for kids and adults etc) • Lantau property listings • Magazine articles and expert tips Post: • Business and property listings, free of charge • Reviews of local businesses Check: • Upcoming events • Photos of past events
e in s bu E! r u yo FRE d or f Ad May 2014
ss
13
Email hannah@arounddb.com if you’d like to be included in this section
IN&AROUND DB
Help rescue
MOON BEARS! May 24 Photo courtesy of DB Pirates
FIELD HOCKEY CLINIC As of September 2014, DB Pirates is starting a new initiative: field mini hockey for kids aged 11 and below. To get the ball rolling, the club is offering a free field hockey ‘clinic’ at the Discovery Bay International School Pitch from 8am to 10am on May 24. To find out more, contact Ilona van Scheers on 9667 9745 or hockey@dbpirates.com. For tickets to the DB Pirates annual ball being held at the Auberge Discovery Bay on May 10, visit www.dbpirates.com.
Meet the
SPORTSMANSHIP GYMNASTS Don’t miss the ninth Sportsmanship Friendly Meet at Discovery College Sports Hall, 8am to 6pm. The event sees more than 200 Sportsmanship gymnasts, aged three to 15, show off their skills. Funds raised go to Harmony Home Association, Taiwan, a non-profit committed to helping people living with and affected by HIV/ AIDS. For more information, email sportsmanshiphk@gmail.com.
Spring into DETOX! Attend a free talk on Naturopathic Detox by Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI) founding director, Graeme Bradshaw at 7pm at IMI, DB North Plaza. Find out how an effective detox can help to restore health and wellness, learn the key differences between the many detoxes available, and discover the benefits of an IMI Naturopathic Detox. To find out more, visit www. imi.com.hk/Detox_DB_May2014. html; to register, contact 2537 1087 or events@imi.com.hk.
14
May 2014
5 May 2
Animals Asia is working to rescue 130 moon bears currently caged on a farm in Nanning, China. Not only will the charity rehabilitate and provide veterinary care for these bears, it will also transform the farm, with its bleak concrete walls and metal cages, into a sanctuary. Animals Asia’s fundraising director, DB resident Bianca Fischer is appealing to the local community Photo courtesy of Animals Asia to help fund this ground-breaking Peace by Piece rescue. Visit www.peacebypiece.animalsasia.org, or call Animals Asia on 2791 2225.
Coming soon:
DISCOVERY LAND Hyped as ‘Hong Kong’s largest indoor family entertainment centre,’ Discovery Land is set to open mid-May in DB North Plaza. Find out more at www.discoverylandhk.com.
www.discoverylandhk.com
Fair employment
FOR HELPERS! Photo by Tracy van Geest
9 May 2
If you are a foreign domestic worker (FDW) looking for work in Hong Kong, or you are seeking to employ someone to work for you, check out Fair Employment Agency, the first non-profit employment agency in Asia, co-founded by DB residents Scott Stiles and David Bishop. Founded in December 2013, the agency is focused on helping FDWs obtain gainful employment without being charged excessive and often illegal recruitment fees. To find out more, visit the Fair Employment Agency Facebook page.
DB DRAGON boating!
www.imi.com.hk
Get set for a weekend of dragon boating! As well as the racing off Tai Pak Wan, there’ll be stalls to shop, and game booths to enjoy in DB Plaza.
1 June
and 2
Photos by Vincent Ypersiel
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
The 9th DB Sportsmanship Friendly Meet 2014 More than 200 young gymnasts from 3 years old to elite level will take this chance to show their talents after day-by-day Sportsmanship training. Please join us to enjoy their day of glory! All gymnast participants’ entry fees (after cost) will be donated to Harmony Home to help the families affected by HIV/AIDS in China and Taiwan.
Date: 25 May (Sun) Venue: Discovery College Sports Hall, Discovery Bay Time: 8:30am - 6:00pm Special Thanks Enquiries: 2870 3524 Charles Chan sportsmanshiphk@gmail.com www.sportsmanship-gymnastics.webs.com
COMPETITIONS
Win tickets to Footloose the Musical
Here’s your chance to win great prizes!
Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter. You have until May 10 to submit your answers. To enter, email your answer to info@arounddb.com, click on the competitions link at www.arounddb.com or scan the QR Code below. Don’t forget to give us your name and telephone number!
A cast of over 30 young and dynamic performers is bringing Footloose the Musical to the Studio Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui, from May 29 to June 1. If you’ve seen the film versions (1984 and 2011), you’ll know to expect explosive dance moves, fierce vocals and a great storyline. Tickets, starting at HK$295, are available at www.urbtix.com.
Which production company is bringing Footloose the Musical to Hong Kong? Photo courtesy of Face Productions
Face Productions is offering three readers a pair of tickets (worth HK$395 per ticket) to see the musical on June 1.
Catch the Soccer Sevens
At the HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens, Hong Kong Football Club (HKFC), Happy Valley, May 23 to 25, youth and academy teams from some of Europe’s top clubs, like Aston Villa, Chelsea and Manchester City, play against more senior players from leagues around Asia. The Masters Tournament, meanwhile, features former stars of the European leagues. For tickets, priced at HK$160 per day or HK$300 for two days, visit www.cityline.com.
Name three UK clubs represented at this year’s HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens.
Photo courtesy of Discovery College
See the HK Welsh Male Voice Choir in DB
Who is the HK Welsh Male Voice Choir performing with on May 11?
Discovery College (DC) Cobra Choir is singing alongside the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir on May 11 at the DC Performing Arts Theatre. Tickets (HK$100 for adults and HK$50 for children), are on sale at www.ticketingover.com and at the DC Parent Teacher Association (PTA) shop. DC PTA is offering one reader four tickets, for two adults and two children (worth HK$300 in total), to see the show.
Oh, What a Lovely War! ticket giveaway Don’t miss Hong Kong Players’ stage production of the much acclaimed anti-war musical, Oh, What a Lovely War! at the Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wanchai on June 25 to 28. This tragi-comedy pays tribute to the millions who died from 1914 to 1918. Purchase tickets, starting at HK$250, at www.urbtix.hk.
In which war does this musical take place?
www.hksoccersevens.com
HKFC is giving away two weekend passes (worth HK$300 each) for the HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens.
www.hongkongplayers.com
Hong Kong Players is offering two readers a pair of A-reserve tickets for Oh, What a Lovely War! (worth HK$330 per ticket) on June 26.
Congratulations to last month’s winners Andrea Swedenklef and Jack Chen for tickets to see Cesar Millan Live; Lauren de Jager, Francesca Djie-Kwee and Renafin Prieto for tickets to Barney’s Birthday Bash; Paul Belcher, Karin Schneider and Choi Fong for tickets to Asia Contemporary Art Show. Please contact our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.
18
May 2014
ACROSS LANTAU
BEAUTIFUL DOLPHIN memorial On April 5, 98 life-sized dolphins were etched into the sand on Lower Cheung Sha Beach by over 30 volunteers, as a memorial for the 98 Chinese White Dolphins that have died locally since 2003. Local nonprofits Ark Eden, The Naked Islands Project - HK (TNIP) and Living Islands Movement (LIM) used the event to promote awareness about the Shek Kwu Chau Mega Incinerator, which the government is planning to build on an artificial island in the middle of the local dolphin and finless porpoise habitat. Hong Kong’s Public Works Sub-Committee is about to vote on whether or not to provide funding for the incinerator.
SEE WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS LANTAU!
Partying with eco intent at SPRING LOVE by South Lantau Groove, and creating beach art to protest against the proposed Shek Kwu For more Chau Mega event photos visit the Incinerator. photo gallery at It’s all been www.arounddb.com happening in Lantau!
“What I’d like to achieve from this event is a greater level of awareness from Hong Kongers, but more importantly, a sense of responsibility,” says event organiser and programme coordinator for Ark Eden, Jasmine Nunns. “People care about the dolphins and our natural environment; we just need to take that next little step called action.” TNIP co-founder Lindsey Price adds that, “the aerial shots of the dolphins formed a poignant and shocking realisation of what Hong Kong has allowed to happen to our unique marine eco-system.” To join LIM’s Anti-Incinerator Campaign, visit www.livingislands.org.hk/ category/campaigns/super-incinerator, or show your support by liking the Ark Eden, TNIP or LIM Facebook pages.
Photos by Albert Ling and courtesy of The Naked Islands Project - HK
20
May 2014
ACROSS LANTAU
SPRING LOVE groove! Cheung Sha Beach was packed out on April 4 for SPRING LOVE by South Lantau Groove. As well as top performances by The Groovy Crew, ONE Harmony, Salvaje, Michael Hazen and Karmen Cheung, there were eco-educational talks and games, co-organised by local non-profits Plastic Free Seas, Ark Eden and Friends of the Earth. The event raised HK$12,000 for Plastic Free Seas, with local restaurants The Stoep, High Tide and Lantana donating 20 percent of their day’s profits. Photos courtesy of Plastic Free Seas and Eva Ewins
Raidlight Extreme Light Waterpack - buy now at Lantau Base Camp for only $398 (original price $664). For more details email sales@vimtech.com.hk
www.lantaubasecamp.com
www.jumpingcastles.com.hk Jumping castle rentals hotline: 9662 1747 info@jumpingcastles.com.hk
OFFICE 3483 5003
www.homesolutions.hk
Kelly Merrick Sharon Riley Angie Lindsay Karmen Cheung
9331 8141 9664 4749 6175 0155 9520 8243
(S-365384) (S-415474) (S-472175) (S-417315)
NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG
16.28M Leyburn ViLLa - Cheung Sha - Sea ViewS 1382’ neT + Large garden
Gorgeous home in sought after complex. 3 Beds, 2.5 Bathrooms inc 1 ensuite, Office area & Helpers Room. Open kitchen/dining room. Private parking. Tennis court, swimming pool and security. Must See!
8.2M Tung Chung - Caribbean CoaST 987’ net
Lovely flat in desirable complex. 2 Beds, 2 Bath inc 1 ensuite. Large open plan living area with balcony and sea views. Kitchen separated by breakfast bar includes all appliances. Great value!
10.5M haM Tin ViLLage houSe 2100’ + 700’ roof
Beautiful home with landscaped rock garden. 3 large Beds, 2 Bath. 1 Office room. Open plan kitchen. Currently tenanted so great as investment property. Close to beaches and hiking trails.
36K Tong Fuk ViLLage houSe 2100’ + 700’ roof + garden
Beautifully designed newly built home in quiet village. 4 Beds, 2 Baths inc 1 ensuite. Open plan kitchen/ living area with plenty of storage. Large 700’ master with walk in wardrobe & ensuite. Stunning sea views.
23K Tung Chung - CoaSTaL SkyLine 874’ net + 40’ bay window
Making you feel at home is our business
Great flat with stunning sea views. 3 Beds, 2 Baths. Renovated kitchen with appliances. Complex with swimming pool, tennis courts and children’s play area. Close to City Gate Mall.
Call us any time at 3483 5003 or Email PROPERTY@HOMESOLUTIONS.HK
C-044849
ACROSS LANTAU
ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS FOR YOU TO ENJOY!
www.diellistravelholic.com
BUDDHA’S BIRTHDAY!
6 May
Where better to celebrate the Buddha’s Birthday than in Ngong Ping 360 (home to the world’s tallest, outdoor, seated bronze Buddha). Make your way to Po Lin Monastery from 9am to 4.30pm to attend a Grand Buddha Bathing Ceremony in The Hall of the Great Hero, and enjoy an outdoor cultural variety show, at 12.30pm and 3.30pm. Expect Shaolin Kung Fu, acrobatics and incredible face-changing performances. The celebrations start on April 30, culminating on the Buddha’s Birthday on May 6. Admission is free. For more information, call Po Lin Monastery on 2985 5248.
The charm of TAI O!
View the Vibram HK100 ultra-endurance race on film! Celebrate the Buddha’s Birthday at Ngong Ping 360 and enjoy Irene Flanhardt’s own photography at her gallery in Friend us Tai O. It’s all on Facebook happening for event reminders this month in Lantau!
More than A RACE!
May 31 h g u o r Th
Photo by Irene Flanhardt
View The Charm of Tai O, a selection of Irene Flanhardt’s stunning photos at her gallery Flanhardt Galerie und Atelier in Tai O, each weekend and public holiday until the end of May, 12 noon to 5.30pm. The photography on show also appears in Irene’s newly launched 80-page book of the same name, now on sale at stores across Hong Kong, including Dymocks DB. Irene is also one of seven photographers exhibiting their work in LANDMARK ATRIUM, Central through June 30. For more information, visit her website, www.fgua.com.hk.
24
May 2014
Photo courtesy of Lloyd Belcher
Check out the 35-minute short More Than A Race, filmed and produced by Tung Chung resident, photographer and videographer, Lloyd Belcher. Available for internet purchase or rental from May 3, More Than A Race focuses on the Vibram HK100, the ultra-endurance race that follows Hong Kong’s famous Maclehose Trail. Not only does it capture the runners’ journey across 100 kilometres of scenic trail, it offers insights into the ethos of the race and its connection with local charities. To view the trailer, visit www.vimeo.com/85918739.
Quality Meat, Fish, Poultry, BBQ packs and Value-Added Products for the best value-for-money in Hong Kong! Chilled Steaks, Marinated Chickens (Flatties / breasts / wings), Pork, Ribs, Lamb, Sausages, Burgers, Bacon, Cold Cuts, Hams, Salamis & Chorizo, Cheese, Smoked Chicken, Duck & Pork, Boerewors, Fresh & Smoked Salmon and a lot more… For home deliveries to DB and Tung Chung please check: www.foodhub.com.hk
OPENING HOURS: HOME DELIVERIES: Wednesday – Monday 9:30 am – 6:30 pm Available for Tung Chung and Discovery Bay Call Sami at 6504 or 4208 orinfo@chef-express.hk email info@chef-express.hk | More about us on Closed onFACEBOOK Tuesdays – Chef’s Express www.foodhub.com.hk email
HOW TO GET THERE Chef’s express and patChwork JaCk FROM THE DB BUS STOP IN TUNG CHUNG, WALK UP TO SUNSHINE HOUSE SCHOOL, CROSS THE ROAD AT THE TRAFFIC LIGHTS TOWARDS THE TUNG CHUNG PUBLIC SWIMMING POOL AND NGONG PING BUS PARKING AREA, TURN RIGHT TOWARDS THE TAXI STAND UNDER THE CABLE CAR. WE ARE JUST BEHIND THE TAXI STAND IN THE OPEN AREA.
NEW!! Summer cotton dresses and party dresses. Girls accessories OPENING HOURS: Monday, Wednesday - Friday 11am - 3.30pm Saturday and Sunday and public holiday 10.30am to 5pm Closed Tuesdays
Email: patchworkjack@gmail.com
Call Jenni 9762 1957
Photos courtesy of Joey Lee and Doug Pieterse
PROFILE
28
Joey and Doug with their two adorable boys Tayden and Maddyx
May 2014
PROFILE
FIGHTING FORM 9 Dragons Fitness owners Joey Lee and Doug Pieterse pretty much have it all since making the move to Tung Chung. Elizabeth Kerr reports
J
oey Lee and Doug Pieterse are the epitome of an old married couple – except for the old part. On a not quite grey but not quite bright Friday morning, they are milling around the front entrance of 9 Dragons Fitness, the CrossFit studio they own in Tung Chung, chatting with a client. The three banter like old friends, with the client loudly emphasising the agony of training with Doug. But it’s all in good fun and he’ll be back for more. Joey and Doug are the kind of couple who inspire irrational fury. Fit and attractive, with two adorable boys (aged two and three) and a successful business (two actually, including a personal training centre in Central), they are engaging and down to earth. Doug is the straight man to Joey’s more gregarious comic foil, and listening to them trade barbs (“I did a background check. He had no criminal record so I married him.”) is an entertainment in itself.
Background check Taiwan-born, Vancouver-raised Joey landed in Hong Kong in 2005 (at her Hong Kong-native mother’s suggestion). Having dumped her criminology studies, she was looking to further her Muay Thai boxing career. She got into personal training through fighting and rolled that into certified trainer status for her first job at Pure Fitness in Central. At the suggestion of a trainer from Vancouver, she
made her way to a gym in Mongkok, where the mostly 14-year-old boys spoke not a lick of English. Needless to say when Joey showed up heavier than any of the fighters in the gym – and a girl – it was her first taste of, for lack of a better phrase, culture shock. What Asian woman would want musculature? Even when I worked at Pure, people would be all, ‘I don’t want big muscles like you’,” she comments with an exasperated roll of the eyes. “I got that all the time, especially because I am Chinese.” A few years later, in 2008, a friend who needed a kids’ gymnastics coach tempted South African-born Doug to the SAR. He recalls expecting Hong Kong to be a third-world fishing village without electricity, where boats were the chief form of transport. “Of course I wound up working in a country far more sophisticated than my own,” he says with a smile. “I didn’t have a computer until I came to Hong Kong.” Eventually the pair met through mutual friends, and they were friends long before they became personal and professional partners. The turning point came when Joey needed some advice about children’s training (“He’s amazing with children.”) and made a date to talk shop. “He called me the morning of and said, ‘I can’t meet you today. I’ve busted out my front tooth. And I’m not leaving the house’,” she recalls. Joey got a dentist friend to fix Doug up over Easter weekend and the rest, as they say, is history.
Fit for Lantau Initially the couple were happy living in Mid-Levels and working as freelance fitness trainers. But Joey’s second pregnancy was a major wake-up call as the family found they needed more living space. Joey didn’t want to live in Sai Kung – the popular Tseung Kwan O was ruled out fast ( Joey: “I hated it!”) – and so they decided to check out Tung Chung, and specifically the Caribbean Coast. Both were soon sold on Lantau. It wasn’t long, however, before the commute became a problem. “We were always working,” Joey recalls, “and we had two kids who were at the age where we were missing everything. It was either move back into town or bring the business to us.” They lucked out finding just the kind of space that was perfect for CrossFit training not too far from Tung Chung MTR Station. “I love it out here. I love that my kids are safe. Since we opened in November, our closest friends are the group we have doing CrossFit. We’re within walking distance of each other’s homes,” notes Joey of the not inconsiderable perks. But, as with most small businesses, there are anxieties to contend with. “We often think about what happens if the business fails. It makes me hurt just to think about it,” Joey continues. “We’d have to go back to Central. We’d have to be away from the kids again. I couldn’t do the school run. All those luxuries would be gone. This has to work; that’s the driver behind 9 Dragons Fitness.” May 2014
29
PROFILE
Joey and Doug taking fitness to the max
Community goals It’s not surprising that Joey and Doug are where they are now. Joey has always been athletic, and early on her interest in criminology gave way to a passion for Muay Thai and then fitness training. “I started to lose a lot of faith in our justice systems, especially in the US and Canada,” she says. “So I started thinking about whether I really wanted to represent either side. I just couldn’t see myself doing that.” It’s a similar story with Doug, who incidentally is a proponent of jiu-jitsu, lest anyone believe Joey is the family’s only butt-kicker. A fully trained gym coach at 17, he started out working mainly with children, autistic children to be precise. “I had a guy come in with his kid who had no spatial awareness, no sense of self-preservation. What he needed was more confidence and an
Since we opened in November, our closest friends are the group we have doing CrossFit. We’re within walking distance of each other’s homes understanding of what he could and couldn’t do,” Doug recalls. “As soon as these kids figure out that they can physically keep up with the other kids at school, then it gets easy.” The day-to-day inspiration for both Joey and Doug now comes simply from seeing clients of all ages achieve their CrossFit goals. There is also the sense
Find more local heroes
30
May 2014
of community that comes from living and working in Tung Chung. “You come in here and we tell you what to do, but when you come in everyone knows your name. Everyone wants to see you do well and you get that community side that you can’t build with a commercial gym,” states Doug. “It’s the kind of camaraderie you get with a church, or the army as an extreme example.” He pauses for a moment, measuring his words before throwing caution to the wind and saying, “You do it so you don’t suck at life. You want to be good outside the gym”.
Find it • 9 Dragons Fitness, www.9dragonsfitness.com
Facebook and at www.arounddb.com
OZZIE COZZIE ROADSHOW SAT 10th & SUN 11th MAY
O a w F pi m n i ly S w i m e a r S h O p n g e StOp
ACTING SUMMER CAMPS
FULLY COSTUMED PERFORMANCE EVERY CHILD GETS A ROLE WITH DIALOGUE
Discovery College – Black Box Theatre
Senior Camps (7-12yrs)
Run 1:00-5:00pm Mon to Fri (performance at 5:30pm Fri)
Junior Camps (5-6yrs)
Run 10:00-12:00pm Mon to Fri (performance at 12:00pm Fri) MONDAY 30 JUNE - FRIDAY 4 JULY (We will be operating on Tuesday 1st public holiday) Senior DC Camp 1 “Wolf, Wolf & Wolf” Junior DC Camp 1 “The Adventures of Ruby & Red Riding Hood” MONDAY 4 AUGUST – FRIDAY 9 AUGUST Senior DC Camp 2 “I Wanna be a Pirate” Junior DC Camp 2 “Under the Sea” REGISTRATION & INFORMATION
www.actingantics.com / admin@actingantics.com
Tel: 8122 9475 / 6842 8092
OpenSpace Studio DB North 96 Siena Avenue, Unit 6/GF, Block Two Enquiries: 9462 0352
FEES (Early Bird specials close 30th May for June camp & 04th July for August camp) Senior Camp: Regular $3,200.00 - Early Bird $2,880.00 Junior Camp: Regular $1,800.00 - Early Bird $1,620.00
IN FOCUS
POWERING UP
Illustration courtesy of www.studentnurses3.blogspot.com Photos courtesy of Nana Minasian, and by Terry Chow and Nancy Paddison
Boosting your immune system by upping your intake of essential nutrients could be your ticket to year-round good health, says Angie Bucu
32
Immune system response
May 2014
IN FOCUS
T
alking to local experts, it becomes clear that compromised immunity can be caused by something as basic as a deficiency in critical nutrients. With our fast-paced lives, polluted air and poor food choices, we need to pay particular attention to our white blood cells – the little guys that protect our bodies against infection from viruses and bacteria. And as it turns out white blood cells are easily boosted by a nutritious diet and wellchosen dietary supplements. For those of you who are loathe to resort to supplements, Graeme Bradshaw, founding director of the Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI), now with a branch in DB North Plaza, opens with a note of encouragement: “I see more results through dietary supplements than asking people to improve their diet, because so often folks in Hong Kong are in poor control of their diet.” That said, one easy way we can all improve our health is to cut out sugary snacks and sodas. “Large doses of sugar can knock the immune system down for six to eight hours,” Graeme warns.
The value of Vitamin D Vitamin D is an essential nutrient required by the body for growth and bone development, and “it enhances the immune system’s response to bacterial and viral infections,” says Lisa Fossey, nutritional therapist and founder of The Nutrition Clinic in DB. “The main source of Vitamin D is through sun exposure (from UVB rays), because unlike other essential nutrients it is not possible to get adequate amounts from our diet,” advises Lisa. The general consensus is that Hong Kongers don’t spend enough time outdoors, in the sun. However if you are concerned about sun exposure, “then supplementing is a good option,” Lisa says. Graeme recommends that sporty people of all ages should have Vitamin D levels in the ‘optimum range’ to ensure healthy bones, good immunity and reduced risk of infection. Vitamin D levels are also important to monitor when pregnant – if mothers are deficient in pregnancy, infants will tend to be deficient as well. “Children (with deficiencies) tend to have 40 to 50 percent more colds during the year,” says Graeme. “If
Paula Lepore Burrough with Finn and Kieran
a simple virus goes on to the chest and becomes a wheezy cough, it can end up looking like bronchitis and be misdiagnosed when it is simply a Vitamin D deficiency.” Nana Minasian, DB resident and mother of Rouben 11 and Karina 10, advocates that supplements including multivitamins (with optimum levels of Vitamin D3) and probiotics, have benefited her kids’ health and wellbeing. “Recently Karina showed Influenza A and B symptoms but didn’t come down with the virus. The doctors were surprised that she didn’t contract it,” says Nana. Maintaining her intake of supplements, adequate rest and a healthy diet allowed Karina to recover within a few days.
Getting adequate zinc Zinc, another essential nutrient, is required for many biological functions, including reproduction, growth and brain and immune function. “A lack of zinc means that your white blood cells can’t mount a proper defence against infection. If you’re someone who gets coughs, sore throats or infections frequently, up your zinc levels,” Graeme advises. Getting adequate zinc into the diet is not difficult but getting it from the right sources and how it is combined, is essential for adequate absorption. Since zinc from animal protein is more readily absorbed than zinc from cereals, grains and legumes, Graeme advises that vegetarians and those who diet regularly should watch their zinc levels. Inadequate intake of zinc, can mean that the body isn’t producing sufficient enzymes, which then reduces the ability to taste and smell food, leading to a reduced desire to eat… hence picky eaters! “Zinc deficiency can also show neurological symptoms closely associated to anorexia,” Graeme adds, so correcting the deficiency can often correct the associated problem as well. May 2014
33
IN FOCUS
Iron and Vitamin C Iron is an important component of haemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. If you're not getting sufficient oxygen, you become fatigued, and that exhaustion can affect everything from your brain function to your immune system’s ability to fight off infections. Infants and toddlers need more iron than adults, in general, because their bodies are growing so quickly. “After six months of age breast milk is no longer an adequate source of iron, so iron rich foods should be included during weaning,” advises Lisa. Children eight to 18 months old require plenty of iron to support growth spurts, and parents should also be aware of the need for iron for maturing teens, especially physically active girls who have begun menstruating. DB resident Kristy Yeo, found that her son Alexander Braun, 11, was iron deficient at 18 months. “The first year and a half of his life was a string of colds, flus and gastro attacks, and eventually we tested and found that he was iron deficient. We put him on iron supplement therapy and homeopathics,” she says. While the best dietary source for iron is animal protein, Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron from vegetarian sources. “It’s a clichéd saying, but five portions of fruit and vegetables a day really does have a positive effect on your immune system,” adds Graeme. “Normally, 45 percent of colds develop into a secondary bacterial infection, but when you take a high dose of Vitamin C, this figure drops
34
May 2014
to just 10 percent. Taking Vitamin C shortens the cold and prevents bacterial infection from developing.”
Probiotics for a healthy gut The human body’s ‘innate immune system’ is the first line of defence against infection, consisting of cells and tissues, such as those lining the gastrointestinal system (GI). Maintaining a good balance of intestinal flora (good bacteria) is therefore essential for a healthy immune system. Extensive research in recent years has revealed insights into the benefits of probiotics (live microorganisms, in most cases bacteria, that are similar to those found in the human gut) for GI health. “We know that probiotics are required to absorb nutrients, that they aid digestion and they make the immune system work better because they have an anti-inflammatory effect,” says Graeme.
Backing this up, DB resident Paula Lepore Burrough, mother of Finn, four, and Kieran, 22 months, and founder of the popular Facebook group Healthy Living in DB, says, “Finn would come down with a sore throat and fever almost every month when he was two or three, but after supplementing with probiotics we no longer had a problem.” Graeme advises that the use of antibiotics affects the probiotic environment in the gut, restricting nutrient absorption leading to further infections and the possibility of developing food allergies and intolerances. He suggests that probiotics should be a priority for anyone who is or has been taking a course of antibiotics. “We were prescribed antibiotics [for Finn], but it was never suggested that we build up his immune system,” says Paula. “The worst part is that back then, no one told us about the benefits of probiotics,” concurs Nana, whose son Rouben was prescribed many courses of antibiotics at a very young age to treat an ear infection.
Nana Minasian with Rouben and Karina
www.yaalidesigns.com YOUR ONE STOP DESIGN SHOP IN DISCOVERY BAY
For practical storage solutions and great quality Furniture book your free initial consultation today. Interior Design | Furniture | Home Accessories
Tel: 9685 7785 Email: info@yaalidesigns.com
Spring into Fitness
Join us for an 8 week program to increase your fitness level, or get back into shape. Starting May 2nd, 2014. Core, Strength, Cardio, and agility training. Choose from 9 classes per week, including TRX and trail running.
Call 6974 7707 or visit www.dbefit.com for more details
IN FOCUS
Kristy shares that at age three her son Alexander was found to be intolerant to a large number of foods. Food avoidance for six to 12 months and supplementation with probiotics, fish oils, vitamins and zinc supported his eventual recovery from these intolerances. “I was fortunate that my doctor respected that I wanted to avoid antibiotic treatment, except as a last resort, so we were able to build Alexander’s immune system naturally,” she says.
Find it • Evolving Wellness, www.evolving-wellness.com • Healthy Living in DB Facebook page • Integrated Medicine Institute, www.imi.com.hk • My Health Coach Lulu, www.myhealthcoachlulu.com • The Nutrition Clinic, www.thenutritionclinic.com.hk
rs Power booste Supplement with a quality multi-vitamin, containing minerals. As a great start-up drink, try green tea or lemon, honey and warm water. Take Elderberry extract to reduce the symptoms and duration of a cold or flu. Eat salmon three times a week – it contains essential fatty acids, and linseed and flaxseed oil. Take Reishi which provides the body with rich antioxidants and feeds the immune system. Reduce your stress levels, stop smoking, exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep.
Alexander Braun
es Dietary sourc
• Vitamin D: oily fish, dairy products, mushrooms, liver • Zinc: liver, beef, lamb, oysters, tuna, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds • Iron: red meat, green leafy vegetables, nuts, legumes, beans • Vitamin C: fresh fruit • Probiotics: yogurt, fermented foods, coconut kefir Find more topical local topics
at www.arounddb.com
OPENING HOURS:
Monday to Friday 9am -7pm Saturday & Sunday 10am -7pm
Professional nail services in a relaxing environment, conveniently located in the Plaza.
Call us for an appointment
2987 2266
Natural Medicine Solutions for Your Children Our caring doctors and practitioners specialise in: • • • •
Strengthening children’s immunity Overcoming allergies, asthma, eczema Learning and behavioural issues Physical posture and coordination skills
at IMI’s new clinic in DB North Plaza.
Please call 2537 1087 for more information. www.imi.com.hk
enquiriesDB@imi.com.hk
Location: G02 Office Block Two, North Plaza, Discovery Bay
Not just for May 11! Celebrate Mother’s Day right through the month at
THE PIER BAR and UNCLE RUSS COFFEE!
Your first-stop for freshly brewed coffee, or an alcoholic brew, from morning ‘til late! Brew yourself a favour! Bring your full UNCLE RUSS COFFEE chop card to THE PIER BAR and enjoy a FREE drink of your choice!
Throughout May: Champagne Fridays (25% off all Champagne and Prosecco, by the glass and bottle!)
Any beer and pie combo available at a discounted price!
Bring your full THE PIER BAR chop card to any UNCLE RUSS COFFEE and enjoy a FREE drink of your choice!
Hours: Mon – Sun (12pm – 12am) www.unclerusscoffee.com.hk www.facebook.com/thepierbarhk
FAMILY MATTERS
SURVIVING THE
IB DIPLOMA
Photos by Terry Chow
IB Diploma students take their final examinations this month. So spare a thought for the secretly stressed-out and sleep-deprived 17- to 18-year-olds you spot in DB Plaza. Eighteen-year-old Discovery College student Jordan Connery reports
40
DC IB Diploma students photographed just prior to their exams, from left to right, Jordan Connery, Camille Thoreau, Max Carrey, Talla Buffery and Shinya Mizuno
May 2014
FAMILY MATTERS
T
he International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is the international uppersecondary school (Years 12 and 13) curriculum of many schools attended by students living in Lantau. That includes Discovery College (DC) here in DB, plus Island School, West Island School, Chinese International School and Canadian International School. The final examinations for most IB Diploma students in Hong Kong take place this month. The IB is reputedly a rigorous educational programme that creates rounded students, well prepared to adjust to and excel in the demanding world of university education globally. Students take six subjects – more than in the final year of most other secondary school curricula. They must also complete a 4,000-word Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge (ToK) course and Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) requirements. So how do students find attempting to complete and thrive in the IB Diploma years? How much stress is involved? How is their physical and psychological health impacted (not to mention their social life)?
The death of social life Nicholas Hingorani, a student at West Island School, says, “The IB is definitely relentless in its work requirements, and even if you do manage your time properly there still is not much time to relax.” Year 13 DC student Max Carrey says with his workload he easily averages three hours of after-school study every day and around eight hours on the weekends, and other students claim a similar or higher workload. Standards are high with a huge amount of aptitude and effort needed to get near the elusive 7/7 score we all want. Other interests we might have pursued in past years, such as sports or music, often get put on the
backburner during Year 13. We just don’t have time for them. According to IB Diploma English, Literature and ToK teacher at DC, Alan Kirk, there are a number of contributing factors and personal characteristics that help students succeed. “Being based on a curriculum that includes a wide range of disciplines, and incorporates an emphasis on participating in extracurricular activities, IB students need to be highly motivated, organised and methodical in their approach to their studies,” he explains. “Students who thrive in a demanding environment and like having options (like picking research topics and choosing how to present what they learn) do well in IB,” notes Anne Murphy, education consultant/ director at tuition and schooling advisory firm ITS Education Asia. “Other students feel overwhelmed by the intensity of the curriculum. Students who struggle in school or have serious extra-curricular commitments, such as playing a university sport or singing in a competitive choir, may not have the requisite time or energy for IB.” Alan claims that completing and doing well in the IB Diploma is achievable if students “set themselves goals which are realistic and achievable. Students should allot time on a weekly basis for socialising with friends and family. This is essential to maintaining a balanced life and a healthy state of mind.” Some of my fellow students do say that if you manage your time wisely you can enjoy some social or relaxation time, while still getting your mountain of work handed in to deadline. But others have dubbed the IB Diploma the ‘death of social life’.
What do we say to sleep? There is a page on Facebook dedicated to the high workload and lack of spare time the average IB
student has. It’s called ‘IB Memes,’ and it consists of witty remarks from students around the world regarding the IB. Though amusing, I find the comments sobering. For example one student states: “Got three straight hours of sleep! Today was a good day”. Another reworks Syrio Forel’s famous line in the Game of Thrones TV series, “There is only one thing we say to death. Not today,” into “What do we say to sleep? Not today!” Teens need about nine-and-aquarter hours of sleep each night to function best, according to the UK National Sleep Foundation. And, the foundation says most teens do not get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can cause a range of issues, from fatigue and dizziness to impacting mood and memory retention. Of the DB IB Diploma students I surveyed, 75 percent claim to have gone the entire night without sleep at least once to complete their work, and 33 percent say they have done this a number of times. DC Year 13 student Zach Kilbourne says that IB Diploma students “generally don’t get as much sleep as they should,” and claims that often he only gets five hours’ sleep a night due to study demands. Others, such as DC Year 13 student Shinya Mizuno, regularly pull ‘all-nighters’ to keep up with the workload. Dosed up on coffee, or more, IB Diploma students are burning the midnight oil across Hong Kong this month.
Pressured to achieve results With the high workload and, for many, sleep deprivation there is also talk of the resulting stress of the final year. Many IB students I know suggest that the expectation set for them – by themselves and/ or by their parents – feels unattainable. I know from experience that applying to a good UK university with an IB Diploma can be quite daunting, with high scores demanded. A student May 2014
41
FAMILY MATTERS
I know in Year 13 complains, “My university is asking me to get a 34 (out of a possible 45) to go there, I hope I can get that.” The typical prayer of an IB student is that a university will offer a place for a lower score. Alan, who has taught IB Diploma English and ToK for over a decade in a number of countries, says there are definitely times that are stressful for students, “with the examination period at the end of the two years being perhaps the hardest time of all. However, being organised and at times strategic in terms of approach to studies and to life in general is key to keeping that sense of balance and perspective, which reduces anxiety and those feelings of stress that can arise.” “In my 11 years involved with the IB Diploma, I have worked with a number of students who are intrinsically motivated, those who wish to do well because they enjoy overcoming challenges and reaching their own goals, but also a number of students who are extrinsically motivated, those who have set their hearts on certain universities or specific courses and endeavour to reach the target score that is pre-requisite to getting that ‘dream’ place,” Alan adds. And does Alan consider the IB Diploma more difficult than other uppersecondary curricula? “My experience of other ‘sixth form’ systems – the French Baccalaureate, the Turkish OSS curriculum, the British ‘A’ levels – has convinced me that the IB Diploma is both the most wide-ranging and the most challenging academically, but also the most beneficial to the student in terms of preparation for university – and, more importantly, for life,” he states. “Many students want the external benefits (weighted grades, advanced college standing, and so on) but the true benefit of earning the IB Diploma is intrinsic in nature,”
Max and Shinya revising in DB Plaza
Anne adds. “The change that occurs within a student academically and personally while pursuing the IB Diploma produces far greater personal growth and satisfaction than the IB Diploma itself.” Based on predicted grades, most Year 13 students across Hong Kong
on Exam preparati
May 2014
tips
What advice does Alan have for all the Year 13 IB Diploma students across Hong Kong who are about to sit their final exams? “Plan your revision schedule in detail to ensure you cover the range of areas that you will be questioned on and ensure that you enter the exams feeling confident of your ability to respond to whatever may come up,” he says. “Develop, or employ already tried-andtested strategies to deal with moments of anxiety and stress. Stay focused on being the best that you can be on the day and see this period as an opportunity to showcase what you have learned, not as an ordeal to be endured. Negative emotional states never help those who are about to sit exams.”
Competition To win a free one-hour consultation with ITS Education Asia about navigating the international schooling system, simply drop us an email at info@arounddb.com. The consultancy session will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t forget to give us your name and telephone number! • ITS Education Asia, www.itseducation.asia
Find more teen-centric stories
42
have already received a number of university offers. Exams finish at the end of May and students will then wait until July 5 to receive their final scores. Then for these teens it’s on to the next challenge, and the next adventure – finalising their university place or other plans for post-secondary school.
at www.arounddb.com
Interdisciplinary Children's Therapy Centre NEW Saturday Events!
Story telling, haircuts, photos, music and more! Supporting Children and their families with school readiness, classroom skills, social skills and special needs. t: (852) 2807 2992 contact@spot.com.hk www.spot.com.hk Location: Central & Wong Chuk Hang
Coomera Anglican College is a forward thinking, progressive Preparatory - Year 12 co-educational day school on the Gold Coast, Australia. Our students are supported to achieve their highest potential while excellence is inspired in everything we do. We offer high quality education, in a caring environment, at an affordable price. When relocating to Australia Think Excellence Think Inspiration Think Personal Best Think COOMERA ANGLICAN COLLEGE Visit our website www.cac.qld.edu.au for further information or give us a call on + 61 7 5585 9916. “The staff at Coomera Anglican College have been welcoming and understanding of our situation, which has made our transition to Australia from Hong Kong worry free.� - A. Niven
MONEY MATTERS
CASH SMARTS
Photos courtesy of www.underthegrapetree.com and www.beginnersinvest.about.com
How old do your kids have to be before you can start teaching them the financial facts of life, and how do you go about it? Joe Dobbs, a professional trader based in Lantau reports
I
knew by the time my daughter Amy was three that she had inherited her grandmother’s ‘consumer gene’. From when she was very small, Amy was into pretty things (particularly shiny, pink pretty things) and she wanted lots of them. She wasn’t born a window shopper. If she fell for a Hello Kitty lunchbox in a store, ‘just looking’ wasn’t enough, she wanted to own it. At this age, it was fairly easy for my wife and I to distract our budding shopaholic from potential pink purchases, but we quickly realised that we needed to teach her about money, and specifically that it doesn’t grow on trees. First lesson, and a hard one for any kid: you may have to wait to buy something
Even tiny tots can learn the value of money, where it comes from, and that it is finite
you want. How to get this message across? In a store, I’d explain that we were there to buy a gift for a friend that day, and that I didn’t have extra cash in my wallet to buy something for Amy. If an expensive item caught her eye, we’d discuss why this purchase would have to wait until October (birthday month), or Christmas. Once Amy was five or so, we began to look at the prices for treats she wanted in the supermarket, and she’d help me count out the money. Most days we’d have enough money for Jammy Dodgers and Custard Creams but occasionally we’d have to decide which packet of biscuits we wanted more. From early on, we also talked about earning money – introducing
the concept that people (mummy and daddy included) go to work in order to make a certain amount each month. Even tiny tots can learn the value of money, where it comes from, and that it is finite.
Introducing allowances The best way to learn about money is of course to have a little of your own, which is where allowances come in. Due in part to her inherited shopaholic tendencies, we started Amy off with a small allowance age six. We gave her HK$20 a week, and out of this she knew she had to buy her own afterschool sweets, sodas and stickers. Through trial and error, she quickly learned how to make her allowance May 2014
45
MONEY MATTERS
stretch. She discovered that if she blew all her money on a Monday, there’d be no more treats until the following week. From the beginning, we made it clear that Amy wasn’t being paid for doing her chores (these she knew she did for free) but we did give her the opportunity to earn bonuses. Each week we started with a bonus but she knew it could be removed as a consequence of bad behaviour. The main reason we give kids an allowance is to allow them to learn to spend wisely, save and share. Remember piggy banks? Until very recently, Amy had three jars in her bedroom, labelled ‘Saving’, ‘Spending’ and ‘Sharing’. She learned to divide her allowance between the jars, using the money in her spending jar for small purchases, the money in the sharing jar for donations to various causes, and the money in the saving jar for more expensive items. My wife and I always kept an eye on the saving jar in particular. It’s great for children to have a goal, such as to buy a toy, but you need to set them up for success. Make sure the item is not so pricey that they won’t be able to afford it for months. Early on, we came up with a matching programme to help Amy reach her goal (get her toy) in a reasonable time frame. Maybe we spoilt her but we put in a dollar, for every two dollars she saved.
Managing money Now, aged 13, Amy has her own bank account. She handles her own monthly allowance, and I’ve made sure that it’s large enough to allow spending beyond what is absolutely necessary, but not so large as to seem inexhaustible. The amount she receives mirrors that of most of her friends, though one boy at school gets a lot more. This lad’s excessive spending power led to an interesting and, I think, valuable discussion recently about the realities of our family’s financial situation.
To encourage kids to save money, come up with a matching programme to help them reach their goals
The main reason we give kids an allowance is to allow them to learn to spend wisely, save and share My wife and I continue to be very clear about what Amy pays for from her allowance. For example, we pay for things like ferry tickets and phone bills, she pays for ‘extras’, like movie tickets and food if she’s out with friends. We pay for the clothes she needs, if she wants yet another pair of flip-flops, or something special, she pays for it herself. In order to encourage saving, I’ve taught Amy to write everything down – to ‘keep the books’. Instead of relying on her end-of-month bank statement, she has a simple spreadsheet, with columns for the date, the allowance amount paid, and the running total. If she takes money out of her account, she notes down the date and the amount, and what she bought. This
Find more monetary advice
46
May 2014
way she can track her spending, and her savings. Rather incredibly (at least to me), Amy does have savings, and she doesn’t let the money in her account fall below a certain amount. If a purchase would reduce her account below her set minimum, she waits until she has more money before making that purchase. Of course there are occasions when Amy comes to me expressing a desperate need for some ‘essential extra’, which her savings can’t quite cover. For this I’m grateful, as it has allowed me to open a discussion about borrowing and debt. We talked the other day about credit cards – how getting money in this way is like taking out a loan. Amy understands that if you don’t pay your bill in full every month, you’ll be charged interest and owe more than you originally spent. I cannot bring myself to charge my child interest, but I do make sure that any amount borrowed is paid back within the allotted time period. It’s clear to my wife and I that time spent with Amy on all of this could be one of the most rewarding investments we’ll ever make.
at www.arounddb.com
Specialist Mortgage, the No.1 provider of Australian property finance to international investors
Australasian Taxation Services, the leading Australian Expat & property tax experts Why pay tax on your Australian Property investment when with legal tax planning it can be eliminated. If you own an Australian Property, you must lodge annual Australian income tax returns. ATS can ensure you remain fully compliant with Australian taxation requirements and can help you to a tax free investment and tax holiday through proper tax planning. Don’t risk high penalties and tax bills.
ATS
Making the right decisions on your Australia property
We can: •
Prepare your Australian Tax Return
•
Ensure tax free Australian property investment
•
Ensure you pay no tax for a period on your return to Australia
•
money and give you peace of mind for the future.
of all lenders and therefore can professionally guide you to the best loan
Expat tax planning
for your individual circumstances.
For a free, no obligation discussion contact: Helen Wong +852 3571 8700 Email: helen.wong@smats.net
•
We are fully independent
Provide full Migration and service
•
finance can save you
specialist mortgage
•
•
Choose from a range of interest rates in AUD, SGD, USD, HKD & GBP Access to over 30 banks and financial institutions ensuring the best range of loan products for your Australian property The most flexible lending criteria and repayment options Our service is FREE of charge
For a free, no obligation discussion contact: Dwight Stuchbery +852 3571 8700 Email: dwight@smats.net
Visit Our Website at www.smats.net
Since 1995
specialist mortgage
ATS
Level 24 Onfem Tower, 29 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong Australia | China | Dubai | Hong Kong | Malaysia | Singapore | Indonesia | UK | USA
Australian Credit License Number: 385201
Photos courtesy of www.en.wikipedia.org, www.dumplingdesigns.wordpress.com and www.besudesuabroad.com
TALKING POINTS
48
The Piu Sik (Floating Colours) Parade
SCRAMBLING
FOR BUNS With a spectacular parade, lion and dragon dances, and a bun-scrambling competition, the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, which runs this year from May 3 to 7, draws tens of thousands of local and overseas tourists every year. Hannah Ball gets stuck in
The 60-foot bun-scrambling tower
May 2014
TALKING POINTS
W
hen I took my parents on a tour of the outlying islands in May last year, I told them to expect fish balls and stinky tofu, houses built on stilts and beautiful scenery. What I didn’t tell them was that when we visited Cheung Chau, they would experience a festival like no other. Accompanied by loudly beating gongs and drums, and surrounded by a cloud of incense, we watched as people flocked to present offerings to their Taoist deities. A parade of colourfully dressed children passed by, suspended high above the crowd. Later that night, 12 climbers raced their way to the top of a 60-foot tower covered with 9,000 plastic buns. It’s no wonder the festival brings some 70,000 visitors to the island each year. According to the Cheung Chau Bun Festival Committee, well over a thousand people will attend the evening festivities on May 6 alone this year. But what’s it all about?
The purpose Many legends surround the festival’s origin, and all hinge on the Taoist God of the Sea, Pak Tai. Some say it all began when a terrible plague hit Cheung Chau in the late Qing dynasty, claiming numerous lives. Local fishermen petitioned Pak Tai, who brought the devastation to an end. Others maintain that the ceremonial rituals began (again in the Qing dynasty) when the islanders, plagued by the ghosts of victims of Cheung Chau-based Pirate Cheung Po Tsai, turned to Pak Tai for help. Whatever the origin, every year from the fifth to the ninth day of the fourth lunar month, the islanders organise a five-day thanksgiving festival in honour of Pak Tai. Many also go vegetarian during the first three days of the festival, with even the local McDonald’s taking meat off its menu.
mbling
ra Bun sc
The Bun Scrambling Competition is held at midnight on the festival’s penultimate day (Buddha’s Birthday), this year on May 6. Historically, young men would race up three towers to Lucky buns are stamped with the fetch real buns; the higher the Chinese symbol for peace bun, the better fortune it was supposed to bring to the holder’s family. However, after an accident in 1978, when a tower collapsed injuring around 100 people, the bun scrambling was banned. Reintroduced in May 2005, with tight safety measures, the competition now involves just 12 well-trained athletes climbing one 60foot tower opposite Pak Tai Temple. Each participant has three minutes to climb the tower and collect as many plastic buns as he or she can. The higher the bun, the more points you get.
The real action takes place on Pak Tai Temple soccer pitch. Locals queue to offer up fruit and ‘lucky’ buns, stamped with the Chinese symbol for peace, to three large papier-mâché effigies, representing the local Pak Tai, Pak Tai (from Tai Ping Shan district) and Tin Hau (Goddess of the Sea). Just before midnight, all the effigies (plus one of the King of the Ghosts) are burnt in order to appease any lingering ghosts and send them on their way. Islanders pray for their families’ safety and good fortune.
The parade Thanks to its ancient roots, this festival is a spectacular showcase of traditional Chinese culture. Spectators enjoy lion and dragon dances, Chinese opera and martial arts’ performances. And of course there’s the Piu Sik (Floating Colours) Parade on the afternoon of May 6. A procession of children, representing traditional deities and modern
Find more topical local topics
celebrities, makes its way through the streets on stilts; musicians, flag bearers and decorated floats follow to the sound of a gong which is believed to scare away evil spirits. For 12-year Tung Chung resident Jojo Cao who attends the festival most years, the parade is a highlight. “The colours are remarkable and to see the children dressed in traditional costumes, lifted up high, is unlike anything else you will see in the whole of Hong Kong,” she says. “I go to the festival whenever I can because it’s so beaming with colour and life.” In 2010 Time.com deemed this one of the world’s Top 10 Quirky Local Festivals. So why not pay Cheung Chau a visit this month and watch one of the most colourful events on our calendar.
Find it • Cheung Chau Bun Festival Committee, 2981 0542
at www.arounddb.com
May 2014
49
HEALTH Q&A
sleep ON IT
Getting a good night’s rest is essential for short- and long-term health, so you need a mattress that complements your body’s physical needs and sleeping patterns. Jane Clyde reports
If a mattress is too firm, fit it with a pillow-top mattress cover to soften the contact points
M
attresses have become so technological – some are even based on research from the US space agency NASA. But when considering a new mattress, don’t feel you have to choose one of the very latest, cutting-edge ‘sleep systems’. Here are some basic buyer tips. If you suffer from back problems, avoid soft mattresses, and buy a new mattress as soon as the old one starts to sag. Don’t opt for a water bed as they tend to contribute to joint pain. Note though that water beds can be good for people with allergies – you need to be aware of your unique needs.
Photo courtesy of www.wedo-mattresses.co.uk
Can a mattress be too hard?
50
A mattress should be firm enough to support your body without sagging in the areas of heaviest pressure (hips and shoulders). Too much resistance, however, (by too firm a mattress), causes the area touching the mattress to lose blood supply. If that happens, the joints in the immediate area (usually the pelvis) also have the joint fluid forced out of them. This leaves you stiff and creaky in the morning, and
prone to reactive joint inflammation and problems in your hips, lower back and shoulders. Try this simple ‘road test’: lie on the mattress on your side for 10 minutes. Stand up, and after a minute, check to see if there is a bright red, perfectly circular dot (about the size of a golf ball) over the hip bone that you were lying on. If so, the mattress is too firm for you. You’ll need to buy a ‘pillowtop’ mattress cover to soften the contact points. Equally, when buying a mattress for two people, you need a firm mattress to support the heavier partner, fitted with a pillow-top mattress cover to ensure that the lighter partner is also comfortable. Children’s mattresses need to be relatively firm but not so firm as to be uncomfortable. Sagging mattresses are likely to cause more damage than overly firm mattresses, as a soft mattress causes repeat strain throughout the body and is less supportive of a child’s growing frame. Note that as children grow and become heavier, the mattress that suited them well, when they were
Find more on health and wellbeing May 2014
half the weight, will tend to sag and possibly create spinal issues. Insider tips Pocket-sprung mattresses are initially more comfortable than other types, but they have a greater tendency to sag at the pressure points over time. It’s worth noting that Sealy Posturepedic® has a good range of mattresses providing excellent back support and targeted pressure relief. Be a little wary of new synthetic materials. Check that they breathe well, particularly if you tend to become hot or sweaty through the night. On the flip side, note that memory foam blends can get hard and cold in the winter. Find out whether the materials used can withstand the effects of humidity, mould and bugs. Also ensure that harmful toxins, particularly neurotoxins, have not been used in the manufacture. A quality mattress should last a good 10 years. But there’s no guarantee that it’s going to work for you personally. Go for a well-established brand and most importantly, ensure there’s a 30 to 90 day money-back policy.
at www.arounddb.com
ESCAPES
MOUNTAIN OF
ADVENTURE
Photos courtesy of Flight Centre Hong Kong
Looking for a challenge, Ellen Cannon, Kathryn Plews and Cecilia Yee make a vacation of climbing Malaysian Borneo’s Mount Kinabalu
52
H
aving decided on a climbing holiday, the trick is to find the right mountain. My friends and I wanted a challenge but as hiking novices we didn’t want to set ourselves up for a, well, fall. Searching the net, Mount Kinabalu immediately leapt out at us as being pretty approachable. It’s one of the most popular mountains to climb in Asia with truly incredible views. Standing at 4,094 May 2014
metres, it’s the highest mountain in East Malaysia and the fifth highest in Southeast Asia. The day before our climb, we took the three-hour flight to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah State and the gateway to Malaysian Borneo. The city is beautifully situated against a backdrop of lush tropical hills and it faces the luminescent emerald-green waters of the South China Sea. A
tropical paradise, known for its verdant rainforests and white sandy beaches, Kota Kinabalu is a two-hour drive from Kinabalu Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the home of Mount Kinabalu.
Getting started Two trails lead to the summit, Low’s Peak – the popular Timpohon Trail and the hard-core Mesilau Trail. We
ESCAPES
Spectacular Kinabalu South Peak (Mount Kinabalu’s most recognisable landmark) at 3,933 metres
decided to tackle the former, a two-day hike with an overnight at Laban Rata, halfway up the mountain. Due to the numerous steps, steep slopes and the altitude, you have to be in pretty good shape (and at least 10 years old) to climb Mount Kinabalu. So before taking up the challenge, we trained hard. We headed to Tai Tam Country Park and hiked The Twins every weekend, we ran and did steps
at the gym, and we practised yoga to ‘strengthen’ our breathing. Arriving in the afternoon, we decided to rest up in preparation for the strenuous days ahead. There are plenty of accommodation options in Kota Kinabalu, ranging from downtown budget hotels to rather more luxurious beachfront resort properties. People tackling the fasttrack Mesilau Trail often opt to
stay in Kinabalu Park at a highland resort in order to acclimatise to the high altitude before setting off.
Day one Our adventure began bright and early at 6.30am. We were picked up at our hotel for the drive to Kinabalu Park headquarters where we met our guide and collected our supplies for the 6-kilometre hike ahead. May 2014
53
ESCAPES
At the summit, Low’s Peak just in time for sunrise
The climb to Laban Rata
Ellen and Kathryn in Laban Rata
Timpohon Trail is lined with steps for the most part, and while the climb wasn’t too challenging, the heat and humidity meant we welcomed every opportunity to rest. Water and sandwiches are provided but it’s a good idea to bring some electrolyte tablets and energy bars to keep you going.
54
Due to the numerous steps, steep slopes and the altitude, you have to be in pretty good shape (and at least 10 years old) to climb Mount Kinabalu Day two
The steps got steeper and the air got thinner as we ascended. It was fascinating to watch the landscape change from dense rainforest, to scrub and finally to bare rock.
Wake-up call the next day was at 2am. After a quick bite to eat, we were ready to tackle the 2-kilometre stretch to the summit, definitely the most challenging part of the hike. Starting out in pitch darkness with only our headlamps to guide us, we took off up wooden staircases.
In the early afternoon we reached our overnight stop, Laban Rata. It is here, at about 3,200 metres, that we began to feel the effects of the altitude. After a briefing session, shower and hearty meal, we opted for an early night. Thankfully we had booked into one of Laban Rata’s three private rooms – the dormitories (and the showers in the dorms) are unheated.
Soon enough the staircases gave way to rock face. At points, we had to pull ourselves up with ropes and climb very steep steps. This part of the climb was incredibly slow going – the altitude and steep gradient of the rock meant we were taking breaks every few steps. Looking up and down the mountain and seeing everyone’s torches twinkling in the dark was a great sight.
May 2014
Cecilia (in blue) tackling a via ferrata
After a last push over bare rock, we made it to Low’s Peak just in time for sunrise. Watching the day dawn from above the clouds was a breathtaking experience and it more than repaid us for all our hard work. As it gets light you realise for the first time just how high up you are. We jostled with other climbers for the best photo opportunities and there was a real sense of achievement in the air. We didn’t stay at the summit for long as we had signed up for a via ferrata (iron road) challenge, where climbers walk up the steep face of the mountain on a ‘protected route’. You are securely fastened to a steel cable and the views are out of this world but this adventure is definitely not for the faint hearted. Later, having walked back to Laban Rata for a well-earned breakfast, we started our descent. Here, the views of 3,933-metre Kinabalu South Peak (Mount Kinabalu’s most recognisable
When You Feel Like A Workout Why Not Just DROP-IN When You Like. As Long As You Like.* *Only
During These DROP-IN ZONE Times
Monday
7:30 – 9:00am
Tuesdays
7:30am – 9:20am
Monthly Weigh-Ins, Thursdays Measuring, Body Fat % and BMI.
Fridays
11:30am – 2:30pm 2:00pm – 5:00pm 2:00pm – 6:00pm
7:30 – 9:00am
10:30am – 1:00pm
DROP-IN or Call For Details 2987 5852
With MYZONE® Heart Rate & Exercise Monitoring Belt. Ask For More Details Or Check Out: www.myzonemoves.com
PILATES | YOGA | SPINNING® | ZUMBA® | TRX® | KETTLEBELLS | PERSONAL TRAINING Unit 10, 1st Floor, Block 2, DB North Plaza. Tel: 2987 5852 - www.movementimprovement.com.hk
Valuable cargo It’s important to choose someone who’ll take extra care of the most precious things. Relocating is a big change for most people. It can be difficult and stressful, but it should be exciting and rewarding for everyone. Our experience and knowledge, built up from nearly fifty years as a worldwide relocations company, is shared by all our people in more than 200 locations. We’ll always be there to help you get the most from your relocation.
Tel: +852 2636 8388 hongkong@crownrelo.com
Go knowing
www.crownrelo.com/hongkong CR ad DB magazine_190x132-5.indd 1
4/17/2014 9:48:47 AM
ESCAPES
landmark) are spectacular. While a lot quicker than going up, the descent came with its own challenges – our legs were tired and our joints were sore. It started to rain and we were encouraged to quicken our pace, while being careful not to slip. We reached the park headquarters at around 3pm, and transferred swiftly to our hotel, Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort. Set on a wide stretch of beautiful beach with world-class facilities and a beautiful day spa, it was the perfect place to recuperate after our adventure. Needless to say we headed straight to the beach where we lay back and celebrated over cocktails. This last part of the trip is a bit hazy but I’m pretty sure we told quite a few of our fellow guests that we had just conquered a mountain.
o
g When to
August and September, and February through April are the best months to climb Mount Kinabalu. The Southwest monsoon hits from May to July, and the Northeast monsoon from October to January.
tact
on Who to c
Official Mount Kinabalu Climb Booking and Information Centre, www.mountkinabalu.com.
Flight Centre Hong Kong specialises in first-class yet affordable flights and holiday packages. To book your Malaysian 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.
Find more exciting travel destinations
at www.arounddb.com
A world of services, across the world.
An International Canadian Law Firm Registered as a Foreign Law Firm at the Law Society of Hong Kong Registered as a Foreign Law Firm by the Justice Ministry of Vietnam Registered as a Foreign Law Firm by the Justice Ministry of the People’s Republic of China Recognized as a Foreign Law Firm by the Lawyers’ Council of Thailand
www.harveylawcorporation.com dboffice@harveylawcorporation.com +852 2416 8618
Montreal - Hong Kong - Beijing - Ho Chi Minh City - Hanoi - Miami - Paris - Dubai - Istanbul - Bangkok - Manila - Annaba - St. Kitts
ACTION
NOT PYE IN THE
Photos courtesy of Sports World and www.marathondessables.co.uk
SKY
58
April 6 to 12, DB uber-athlete Bruce Pye took on the ‘toughest footrace on earth,’ the Marathon des Sables. Nic Tinworth catches up with him to talk motivation, training and race-week realities The MdS is a seven-day, 240-kilometre stage race through the Sahara Desert; competitors carry everything except water and tents in their packs
May 2014
ACTION
I
t's hot: 56 degrees centigrade hot, with no breeze; the sticky, sweltering, energy-sapping kind of dry heat that leaves you breathless without having moved a step. Not exactly the kind of environment that makes you want to be out walking through 10-storey-high sand dunes, let alone running on them, when all your feet do is sink deeply into the soft orange sand, arms flailing around wildly to maintain balance, hunched over from the weight of your gear-laden backpack, progress painfully slow. Yet this is what every April, some 1,000 international competitors from roughly four dozen countries do every day, for seven days, as they compete to finish a gruelling adventure race in one of the world’s most inhospitable climates – the Sahara Desert.
Zambian-born Bruce, who grew up in South Africa, took to sprinting at school, and he started running triathlons 18 years ago when he moved to Hong Kong. Living so close to trails it seemed a natural progression to begin running on them, and an affinity for trail running and adventure racing was born. Through experience in managing the ups and downs of the nutritional aspects of racing, he grew into longer distance running and races, drawn by the appeal of discovering what mental strength he needed to tap to achieve newer, loftier goals. “I've known about the MdS for a long time and have always had a calling for it,” Bruce said in early April. “This is really the first time in my life I can say that, mentally and physically, I’m ready for the challenge.”
The DB runner
Gear and training
Among the runners this year was long-time DB resident Bruce Pye. The chance to finally test his mettle on what has been described as ‘the toughest footrace on earth’ was a dream come true for the 45-year-old general manager of Sports World. Bruce trained to “expect the unexpected,” something he knew he would experience as he raced under the hot Moroccan sun up desert-mountains, through the remains of old towns and even into the odd sandstorm.
Mandatory gear that Bruce had to squeeze into his backpack included flares, an anti-snake venom kit, a sleeping bag, headlamp and compass. If that sounds more like something you’d pack for an expedition than a running race, you’re not far off. Competitors are so reliant on their packs and what is inside for day-to-day survival that getting the weight down to a minimum (Bruce’s pack weighed in at 7.5 kilogrammes, without water) becomes an art form and source of pride.
The Marathon des Sables (MdS) is a seven-day, 240-kilometre stage race – the equivalent of running almost six consecutive marathons. Started in 1986 by Patrick Bauer, the event is now in its 29th year. Organisers provide rationed water, an open tent to rest and sleep in after each stage (with six or seven other competitors) and emergency help. Other than that competitors must be completely selfsufficient, meaning that all the food, camping gear and other equipment they need for a week of living and running in the Sahara must be carried in their backpacks.
“I began training with 4 kilogrammes of rice in my pack,” Bruce recalls. “Over three weeks I built this up to 10 kilogrammes being able to run a 30-kilometre hilly road course at a comfortable 5:30 pace (five minutes, 30 seconds per kilometre). In between this, lots of three- to four-hour trail runs around Lantau with 6 to 10 kilogrammes on my back. Initially it was a huge shock to the system running with the weight, but it’s amazing how quickly the body adapts.” In the lead-up to the MdS Bruce built up his base fitness by completing the May 2014
59
ACTION
Ironman Frankfurt in July 2013 and the Vibram HK100 ultra-endurance race this January. In between those events he also did various other shorter races in Hong Kong, but serious, specific training for the MdS began in February with lots of trail running that included as many climbs as possible to make up for the lack of available ‘heat training’. A big part of the challenge when running a race like this is being able to adapt to conditions that might change. “This race is all about facing the unknown and the challenge of trying something completely new in [unfamiliar] surroundings,” Bruce says. “Every day was different and whatever got in my way, I knew I had to adapt to what was going on and push through it.”
Nutrition and hydration Everything that Bruce ate along the way he carried in his pack – over 12,000 calories of it, the equivalent
of eating 45 Mars bars and the bulk of the weight in his pack. With the help of a nutritionist and working with his base weight of 68 kilogrammes, he calculated he would need to consume 2,400 calories a day, which worked out as two dry-food 800-calorie meals a day. He made up the remaining calories from powdered drinks, gels and energy bars, and he relied on electrolytes and salt tablets. “The trick is to log into how your body is feeling and give it what it needs,” he says. “When going through a low, which happens, you need to know how to get out of it.”
Why the MdS? For many competitors, especially those who return year after year, the MdS is more than just a week-long running race. Tent mates spend hours together after the day’s running and with the complete array of emotions on display, it’s hard not to form strong bonds and lifelong friendships.
Athletes have acclimatised by Day 3 and begin to pick up the pace
Competitors start by tackling the Dunes of Merzouga DB resident Bruce Pye finished the race in an incredible 31 hours, nine minutes
60
May 2014
THE RED LANTERN Genuine antiques, small pieces of delightful furniture from the late Ching Dynasty.
4 minutes' walk from the ferry in Mui Wo in the direction of the Silvermine Beach Hotel.
Free Delivery to DB www.facebook.com/zenvarahk
Tel: 2987 0099 Fax: 2980 4833 glandam@netvigator.com
ACTION
Everyone is there for different reasons – to win, to beat a time, simply to survive – and there are as many green first timers as there are seasoned multi-year veterans. “The MdS is life changing,” says Bruce. “I shared a tent with seven others whom, for the duration of the race were my family – we encouraged and supported each other to the finish.” Despite all the preparation and training, there were a few unknowns in the way of a successful finish. “It’s really hard to simulate this training anywhere unless you’re in the desert,” Bruce explains. “The weather was another big factor with temperatures sometimes reaching up to 50 degrees centigrade in the
day and nights dropping to 6 degrees centigrade. People who know me well enough know that I always push myself to the extreme.” With so many variables to contend with, Bruce set himself small goals that eventually got him to the finish. By focusing on the present and using feel and intuition (as well as Ibuprofen when the need arose) his inaugural MdS was one to remember.
“I'll finish even if my race number 1,061 passes the finish line pinned to a camel,” Bruce said in the leadup to the race. As it turned out, he came in 58th overall (there were 917 finishers) in 31 hours, nine minutes. The race winner and 2011 victor, Rachid Elmorabity made it home in 20 hours, 27 minutes, while the last finisher took just over 75 hours! A seriously epic result for Bruce, in this his first MdS.
Find it • Marathon des Sables, www.marathondessables.co.uk • Sports World, www.sportsworld.hk
Find more sports activities
at www.arounddb.com
Swimming for Children Harry Wright International - The Premier Swim School Lessons from Parent & Infant through to competitive training • • • •
Club Siena & Discovery Bay Recreation Club Professional instruction Structured & progressive programme Indoor heated pool
Please call 2575 6279 or email swimming@harrywright.com.hk website: www.harrywright.com.hk Accepting Enrollment for Summer Holiday Programme 30 June - 15 August 2014
DB COBRAS JUDO CLUB • Offers Judo classes for children of all ages • Increase in physical fitness, strength & flexibility • Boosts self-esteem & confidence • Improves discipline • Self defense • Make new friends & have FUN!
Classes available on Mondays, Wednesdays & Saturdays
Location: Discovery College Email: elliot@cobrasportshk.com
FINANCIAL PLANNING ASK THE EXPERT 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. What’s more in recent years, after so many bank scandals and product scandals (think mini-bonds), many investment-linked insurance products have become over regulated, and unappealing. So what coverage do you really need in order to protect yourself and your family? What products are viable and essential when times are tough? My advice? Go back to the safe, traditional products, such whole-life, term-life and education plans.
Life insurance What you are looking for is guaranteed whole-life insurance, which equates to life insurance + dividends + savings with a fixed cash out. Note that with whole-life insurance you can also set payment/ contract terms. Payments can be made monthly or annually. And in addition, you can opt to pay a fixed amount over 10, 15 or 20 years and then never have to make a payment again. For people with kids and/ or mortgages, top-quality term-life insurance is particularly essential. When researching a product, look out for high death benefits and low premiums. With term-life you can cancel anytime upon annual renewal. Of course whole life-insurance products include: • Underwriting considerations • Medical exams • Suicide clauses • Waivers of premiums • Periods of contestability So, in addition to examining your needs and budget, be sure to do your homework and read the small print.
My offer: I can do a comparison shop for you free of charge, to ensure that you have made the right choice and check that you have the right product at the right price.
LIFESTYLE
T
his 2,000-squarefoot combined unit in Greenwood DB was already in pretty good shape when Stella Eloff moved in with her husband Anton and eight-yearold daughter Kaydee at the end of last year. But the family soon found that the heart of the home (the kitchenliving-dining area) needed work, and they called in fellow DB resident Cynthia Lie-Breit of Bricks & Mortar Design to touch things up. “We wanted a design company that would work with us and listen to our needs and input,” says Stella. “We didn’t want a company to move in and create a home in its style that in the end would look like everybody else’s. We wanted a warm, cosy, modern design that suits our lifestyle.”
Photos courtesy of Bricks & Mortar Design
While Cynthia’s signature style shines through, primarily in the use of (you guessed it) bricks and mortar (cement), and in the clean minimal aesthetic, Stella’s requests have been followed to the letter. “Being from South Africa we wanted to reflect our personalities and roots by using lots of natural elements in every room,” Stella says. Wood makes a big impression throughout, even in the otherwise edgy and industrial-look kitchen, as does richly textural leather, hide, brick and cement. Natural tones predominate too, and it is the red wall panelling that really makes a statement. “The bricks came from me and the red colour was something that Stella wanted right from the beginning of the project,” Cynthia says. “These two elements together create a rustic, homey, warm yet elegant atmosphere.” Stella and family spend most of their time in the free-flowing kitchen-livingdining-area. “The original kitchen was far smaller than this,” Cynthia explains. “The owners wanted to extend the kitchen into the living space so they could enjoy quality family time, while cooking together.” Incidentally Stella does the baking for her cupcake
1
HOME COMFORTS Where you live should reflect who you are, and cater to your needs and wants. Stella Eloff’s DB home does just that, says Jane Clyde
business, Sweet Cakes Hong Kong, in a newly constructed separate kitchen. Chic in wood, stainless steel and cement, the family kitchen is outfitted with all mod cons. There’s a built-in coffee machine, and a built-in water purification and filtration system (you can get boiling water directly out of the faucet). In addition to an oven, steam oven and microwave, a teppanyaki grill
sits on top of the work space in front of the breakfast nook. “It’s something Kaydee enjoys very much, as she can make her own stir-fry,” Stella says. Great dining aside, this is definitely the sort of home that invites you to kick off your shoes and relax. “We were aiming to create a happy and fun place to live in,” Stella says, “somewhere we could build memories.” May 2014
65
LIFESTYLE
2
66
Being from South Africa we wanted to reflect our personalities and roots by using lots of natural elements in every room
3
4
5 May 2014
6
LIFESTYLE
ok!
Get the lo
1 Use contrasting materials/ finishes. Rustic brick, warm wood, cool
stainless steel, polished cement and natural stone feature throughout the apartment. A contrast in materials and colours can transform a dull space into a vibrant living environment.
2 Have often-used areas custom designed. Here, the bar/ island
is designed in such a way that one side can be used as work space/ countertop (90 centimetres high) with drawers underneath, and the other side for dining. You don’t have to perch on bar stools as the ‘dining side’ is built a bit lower at standard dining table height (around 75 centimetres).
3 Think durable and long lasting. Industrial-strength cement and
stainless steel is a chic choice for the modern kitchen. Here, wooden elements and red wall panelling warm things up, and provide a visual link with the adjacent living-dining area.
4 Create a specific look/ mood with accessories. Ornaments are easily changed to suit your mood or evolving design style. As a general rule, accessories look best grouped in pairs — as an alternative choose large stand-alone items. This will further a clean, minimal design aesthetic.
5 Keep the backdrop plain and simple. The base design, everything
that is fixed and cannot be changed easily (walls, floor, built-in furniture etc.), need not make a statement. For a serene effect, sweep away all the service and utility aspects of a traditional home and move them to dedicated enclosed areas.
6 Design a sensually textural master bedroom. Natural wood combines well with raw silk and pure cotton. Have the bed fitted for storage: simply install an air-pump system to lift up the mattress and base.
Top trend The kitchen is getting bigger than the living room – literally! Families are cooking together, children are sitting in the kitchen to do their homework, friends and family members are enjoying a glass of wine while others are cooking… Food brings people together.
ip Hot goss Cynthia has been working with Patrick Chan of Erste on all her kitchen projects over the last few years. They are setting up a joint showroom in Wanchai this month. Bricks & Mortar Design is involved in client communication and design; Erste is in charge of manufacturing and installation.
Contact Bricks & Mortar Design at cynthia@bricksandmortar.com.hk.
Find more on stylish living
at www.arounddb.com
May 2014
67
HK HAPPENINGS
10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH!
k!
www.nytimes.com
LE FRENCH MAY
ic Editor’s p
Le French May is back celebrating 22 years, from May 2 to June 28, with more than 120 events taking place in venues across Hong Kong. From grand opera and ballet to hip-hop, movies, art exhibitions and of course fine dining opportunities and gastronomy workshops, you’re guaranteed a truly Gallic experience. For online bookings, visit www.urbtix.hk; for more information, visit www.frenchmay.com.
Wanting LIVE! Tune into the soothing sounds of Chinese-Canadian singersongwriter and pianist, Wanting Qu, who is performing at Star Hall, Kowloon Bay International Trade and Exhibition Centre (KITEC), May 23 and 24. Wanting’s first album, Everything In The World, released in 2012, went platinum in China in its first week. She sings in both English and Cantonese. For tickets, starting at HK$380, visit www.hkticketing.com.
www.asianfairsf.com
Indulge in French and Spanish culture with Le French May and La Feria. Get inspired at the Asia Contemporary Art Show and the Ocean Art Walk. Catch Wanting live, and be entertained by TAP DOGS! Stock up for the holidays at the Prestige Summer Friend us Gift Fair, and on Facebook get involved in for event an exhilarating reminders Action Asia adventure race!
EASY
FRENCH RECIPE! 1. To make Porc au Poivre, dredge each pork chop in seasoned flour, and shake off any excess. 2. Fry the chops, at medium heat, and cook through, around three minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and keep warm. 3. Reduce heat to mediumlow. Cook a shallot until soft, about one minute. 4. Add half a cup of brandy and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated, two minutes. 5. Remove from the heat; stir in a quarter cup of sour cream. Serve the pork chops with the sauce.
Dancing with TAP DOGS
Photo courtesy of Ralf Brinkhoff
Don’t miss Dein Perry’s tap dancing sensation TAP DOGS at the Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai, May 20 to 25. Performed on multi-level structures, ramps, moving surfaces and on water, the show which was first conceived 18 years ago, sees six dancers and two musicians bring an imaginary Australian steelworks to life. Tickets start at HK$350 and are available at www.hkticketing.com.
ASIA CONTEMPORARY
www.asiacontemporaryart.com
View the work of some of the art world’s top talent at the Asia Contemporary Art Show, running May 16 to 18 at the Conrad Hong Kong Hotel, Admiralty. With 100 exhibitor rooms to browse, the show features some 3,000 artworks, ranging from original paintings to sculpture and photography by both local and international artists. The event coincides with Art Basel Hong Kong, showing May 15 to 18 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai. Art lovers can purchase tickets for both events at www.hkticketing.com. May 2014
69
HK HAPPENINGS
Email hannah@arounddb.com if you’d like to be included in this section re!
awa Be eco
Photo courtesy of Liina Klauss
Art walk for the OCEAN! Catch the second eco-themed art walk, organised by Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation and Ocean Recovery Alliance, through May 4 in Stanley. The works on show collectively contain over 4,200 plastic bottles, 500 CDs and 350 glass bottles recycled from local waters. Drop by the hawker stall (pictured) run by Lantau resident and environmental artist Liina Klauss – it’s stocked entirely with flotsam. All events are free. For more information, visit www.hkyaf.com.
Live it up at LA FERIA
ECO-MARINE TOURS According to W WF Hong Kong, “A dazzling range of coastal and underwater natural resources, more than 1,000 fish species and over 80 hard coral species (more than the entire Caribbean) are found here.” So how do eco-marine enthusiasts get to see what Hong Kong has to offer?
1 Take a Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park
Get set for the fourth edition of La Feria on the weekend of May 10 at the Cyberport, Pokfulam. This is a great shopping opportunity, with over 100 different Spanish products on offer, and you can also expect flamenco dancing, language courses, games and food stalls. To purchase tickets, starting at HK$100, go to www.hkticketing.com.
Coral Eco-Tour in northern Sai Kung. After observing coral communities and diverse marine life (including angel fish) from glass-bottomed boats, you can check out various marine conservation projects. Visit www.wwf.org.hk.
www.actionasiaevents.com
Action Asia
CHALLENGE!
www.unionsquareblog.org
Get set for the Otterbox Action Asia Challenge taking place in Tai Lam Country Park in the New Territories on May 18. Choose between a 16-kilometre Trail Run, a 12-kilometre combined Kayak n Run, and a 40-kilometre Full Adventure race by bike and kayak, which also calls for swimming, rock scrambling and trail running. To enrol, visit www.actionasiaevents.com.
2 Hong
Kong Dolphinwatch has been operating eco-tours to see the Chinese White Dolphins in Hong Kong waters since 1995. To enjoy a day out with these gently pink marine creatures, visit www.hkdolphinwatch.com.
3 To explore the remote waters and
islands off the Sai Kung coast, visit www.hkecotours.com.
Summer GIFTING
www.prestigefairs.hk
70
May 2014
Check out the Prestige Summer Gift Fair in the Grand Ballroom of the Conrad Hong Kong Hotel, Admiralty, on May 19. An offshoot of the popular Prestige Fairs held each winter, this new summer fair offers thousands of great products from around the world – your chance to buy everything you need for the holidays. Entry is free. To find out more, visit www.prestigefairs.hk.
www.amazon.com
RS_GERMANCOMMUNITYAD.indd 1
AroundDB_May14_op.indd 1
25/03/2013 4:13 PM
4/15/2014 2:46:25 PM
DB FACES
COMMUNITY SNAPS!
Who do you know? Find more familiar faces @ www.arounddb.com
COMPETITION
Photos by www.photosdb.net and Wendy Seager
Email your photos for DB Faces to info@arounddb.com. Around DB accepts no liability for the photos sent
Great prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee!
A
B
C
Congratulations to last month’s winner Leah Gutierrez! Please contact our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.
Y
our challenge, this month, is to identify which of the three photos above is the exact copy of a photograph featured elsewhere in this issue of Around DB. You need to list the page number the photo appears on, as well as which of the three pictures is the exact copy. Contact us online via the competitions link at www.arounddb.com before May 10. This is your chance to win a complimentary coffee from Uncle Russ every day for a week. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer. Good luck!
AGS_HK_Around DB_92.5x270_en_1403_ctp.pdf 1 14/03/2014 08:21:34 AM
EXCITING DMR DANCE PROJECTS FOR THIS SUMMER “more than just dance”
C
M
Y
PERFORMANCE CAMPS
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Contact us for a free quote today AGS HONG KONG Room 905-6, 9/F, Eastwood Centre, 5 A Kung Ngam Village Road, Shaukeiwan, Hong Kong T. +852 2885 9666 E. ags-hongkong@agsfourwinds.com
DISNEY YOUTH PROGRAMME Classes held at our DB Studio: 112 DB Plaza For more information and registration visit our website www.dmr-hk.com or email us at info@dmr-hk.com
Tel: 29874338
View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com
WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am
CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME & RDB TEENS
Pastor James Buckner Tel: 2987 7061 wwww.dbicc.org
Visit the local business directories @ www.arounddb.com EMPLOYMENT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A COURIER? Michael, an Indian HK resident living on Lantau, seeks post of delivery person for mail/ documents/ small packages in HK. Full or part time, Call 9145 6731
DB/ TC PRIMARY SCHOOL SEEKS EMPLOYEES Part-time admin assistant & full-time learning support assistant with excellent command of English &/ or Cantonese. Mature, hardworking & detail oriented. Attractive remuneration packages for the right candidates. Email your full CV to hr@dmk.edu.hk
DB-BASED REALTOR SEEKS EAA-LICENSED AGENTS Must have a good command of spoken & written English & Cantonese, an extra language is an advantage. Strong communication & interpersonal skills, mature outgoing personality, proactive, hardworking & detail oriented. Attractive remuneration package for the right candidates. Email your full CV to info@lifestylehomes.com.hk
FINANCE & INSURANCE
HOME & REPAIRS
KIDS
AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS
EXPERT MOVER
EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP
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
• 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
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
HEALTH & WELLBEING
PETS GOLDING DECORATION UK
HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY
Quit smoking quickly. Divorce/ Post-Divorce Coaching. Resolve: • Fear of Flying/ Public Speaking • Overeating • Couples’ Conflicts • Career & Command-Training Stress • Anger Management • Phobias • Nail biting • Insomnia • Exam Strategies Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk
House painter, very experienced in maintenance work, & hanging wallpaper & artwork. 100% customer satisfaction guaranteed. Fast, clean & tidy, providing down-to-earth prices. Call Colin on 9074 5231
NEED SPACE / STORAGE!
Humidity controlled, small/ large storage space, short or long term. Competitive rates. Call 2566 4799 or visit www.expertmover.hk
Looking for a business in DB, Tung Chung or South Lantau? Go to
www.arounddb.com
GOOD NEWS FROM PETCODB
Micro Bubble Bath using Nano technology for pets is now available at PetcoDB. 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
RETAIL
ABBELLO WINES
Great value, high-scoring wines from around the world. Free delivery within Discovery Bay. Special offer: http://abw.hk/db or call 3170 8458. Visit www.abbelio-wines.com.hk
Greenland Pest Control Tailored Pest Control Solutions for Rodent, Cockroaches, Fleas, Mosquitoes, Termites, Ants, Ticks etc… For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or May 9774 3554 Email: greenlandpest@outlook.com
May 2014
75
Visit the local business directories @ www.arounddb.com
- Japan qualified – skilled piano technician in DB We can offer professional advice and services on all piano matters;
Such a great birthday party !
One of the keys to piano maintenance is - How to keep your piano in good condition with a subtropical climate www.88keys.com.hk E-mail: info@88keys.com.hk Tel : 9687 0726
Beat The Heat! Come and relax a while at Mypetshop in the North Plaza.
76
May 2014
Call 6710 0391 info@ecole-discovery.com
Visit the local business directories @ www.arounddb.com SERVICES
TUITION & COURSES
NOTARY SERVICES
Now available in DB at affordable rates. For enquiries, 9143 0799, notary@hpi.com.hk
JAPANESE PRIVATE TUITION
COMPUTER PROBLEMS?
Native speaker, 10 years’ teaching experience. Any level/ any purpose. Call 6050 1731 (WhatsApp, Line, Viber)
TRAVEL
Deadline for June issue classifieds
Free over the phone repair, or home/ office visit for a nominal fee! 15 years’ experience & a passion for resolving computer problems. Call 9649 9910
CONCORdE TRAVEL
Leisure Travel and Cruise specialists since 1978. Call 2526 3391 or visit www.concorde-travel.com Licence No 350343
May 12
TUITION & COURSES GUITAR TUITION
One of Hong Kong’s foremost players offers home tuition in Classical, Blues, Ragtime & Rock. Special rates for morning classes. Contact Graeme on 9627 3043, graememorris1000@gmail.com
CLARINET/ SAXOPHONE/ FLUTE TUITION Available in DB from professional musician with 25 years’ teaching experience & graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester, UK. For enquiries, call 9413 0498, janetwilliams.clarinet@gmail.com
CHINESE (MANdARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH
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
LEARN SPANISH
Native speaker. DELE examiner. Experienced teacher. IB, IGCSE, A-Levels & HKDSE. Business Spanish, & courses for adults. Flexible schedule & locations. (Special offers to students who live in DB & Tung Chung). Contact Erik R on 9666 9511, rerikm@hotmail.com
MANdARIN CHINESE CLASSROOM
In the Greens. Lessons for adults & children, individually & in small groups. Any level/ time/ purpose. Call 6071 9643, or visit http://tclearning.sinacool.com
NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO? Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents 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
Visit the all-new www.arounddb.com For everything you need to know about Discovery Bay, Tung Chung and South Lantau! • Each Lantau district now has its own dedicated section, with a fully comprehensive business directory and property listings. Find activities for kids and adults, plus information on schools, medical centres, restaurants, stores and more. Post a review of a store, club or restaurant and add your business, all free of charge • www.arounddb.com has over 1,000 Lantau property listings To advertise your property for sale or rent, simply login (either via your Facebook account or by filling in the login form on the website). There is no charge and the process takes seconds • Look to www.arounddb.com for upcoming community events, you’ll also want to visit the photo gallery of past events Read current (and back) issues of Around DB online for the latest on what’s happening throughout Lantau
Join your community online at
www.arounddb.com May 2014
77
Check out short-term rentals @ www.arounddb.com PROPERTY DB
STUNNING FURNISHED FLAT SHORT OR LONG-LEASE Designer 2-bed apartment, 1 minute from DB Plaza. Renovated to the highest standard. Weekly cleaning available. Contact Maeve on 6408 4227, maeveororke@hotmail.com
MODERN EXECUTIVE 1-BEDROOM FLAT FOR RENT Spacious open layout. Quiet, high floor. Fully equipped kitchen. Shower. Washer/ dryer. English movies & news, & wi-fi. Just unpack! Competitively priced. Contact 6680 2007, greenmountain123@gmail.com
PROPERTY DB
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
DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS 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, annie@appletravel.com
STUDIO FOR SHORT-TERM LET 2-BED APARTMENT FOR RENT At Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished. Contact 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
GREENDALE COURT RENTAL GREENDALE COURT RENTAL Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525
800’ 2-bed flat with balcony & nice sea view. Fully furnished, with wi-fi internet access. Contact Sonya on 5241 9806, syeung72@hotmail.com
PROPERTY OVERSEAS LUXURY MODERN FLATS TO LET Short- or medium-term rental at Siena 2. 600’ 1-bed flats with sea views, near DB 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
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
FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED RENTAL
PHUKET PROPERTY FOR SALE
Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view. Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished. Call Tiareti on 9732 8985
Perfect holiday house or investment property, close to Surin Beach. Small development, large pool, close to everything. HK$4 million. Contact 9124 0157, pea@hk.super.net
SHORT-TERM LET Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony. Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Charles on 6140 7971, charles@headlandhomes.hk
78
AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY
May 2014
PRIVATE SPEEDBOAT CHARTER PHUKET Crownline 252 for hire. Tailor-made itineraries, ideal for families. Boat only price, includes tour guide, Thai captain & fuel. Starting at HK$5,000. Contact Kim on 6077 2758, kim@bluewave-cruises.com, or visit www.bluewave-cruises.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 Kwai Bo Ind. Building 1,820’ 11.9M
• Walking Distance To Future MTR • With Balcony Sungib Ind. Centre 6,009’ 34.8M
ole
Grand Marine Centre 3,815’ 25M
• Remodeled into Open Plan Space • Stunning Waterfront Views
Sun Ying Ind Centre 1,882’~7,056’ 7.9M & up
• Very Quiet Location • Views Partially Mountain/Open
Derrick Ind. Bldg. 1,767’/1,979’ @5,980
Tin Fung Ind. Mansion 1,182’~17,587’ @5,150 & up
t
en
Ag
ole
S
Harbour Ind. Ctr. (Corner Side) 742’~2,315’ 4.4M & up / @9.5
• Ceiling Approx. 12ft High • Windows on 2 Sides of Space One Island South 1,004’~29,848’ 10M/25K & up
t
en
Ag
S
• Rare Whole Floor • Extraordinary Investment Opportunity in Wong Chuk Hang Global Trade Square 997’~9,820’ @9,000 up
• Grade A Office Space • 13.5ft High Ceiling with Raised Floor System Shui Ki Ind. Building 3,927’ 25M / 41K
• Mutli-Purpose Usage • Ready for Immediate Use Workshops on Ground 1,600’~4,000’ Sale by offer
• High Ceiling • Rare in Market
• Flexible Warehouse Space • Very Busy & Convenient Location in Wong Chuk Hang Southmark 871’~3,523’ 6.2M & Up / 13K
• Swimming Pool Facility • Greenery View Office Yan’s Tower 690’~6,300’ 4.2M & Up
• Central Air-Condition • Marble Lobby Design Sing Teck Ind. Bldg. 1,877’~3,396’ 8.2M / 18K
• Minutes Walk to Public Transports • Price Reduced
• Flexible Warehouse Space • Very Busy & Convenient Location in Wong Chuk Hang Kin Teck Ind. Building 3,750’~5,710’ @6,200
• Full Multi-functional Terrace • Fully Equipped Modern Kitchen with The Appliances Heung Wah Ind. Building 7,226’ 40M / @10
• High Ceiling & Rare Whole Floor • New Development Projects around the Site Hing Wai Ctr. 1,008’~28,000’ @4,000 & Up
• Unobstructed Seaview • Ample Loading Bay
• Opposite to MTR Station • Frontage to Enjoy Inspiring of Ocean Park Aberdeen Ind. Building 3,150’ 15.8M / @10
• Located Inside a Residential Shopping Arcade • Public Transport at The Door Step Fullagar Ind. Building 721’~12,262’ @9.8
• Internal Toilet • Town Centre at The Door Step Land Acquisition Projects Site Lot Area 6,000’~9,000’
• Revitalizing Industrial Building • Considering Re-zoning the Wong Chuk Hang Area
0911 9326 3293 / 6401 8889 / 9701 6622 3527 24 hours hotline Jeff
(S-130432)
Jacqueline (S-398189)
Dave (S-447427)
B USINESS OF THE MONTH
ACROSS LANTAU
sed bouncy-castle rental Ben White, owner of Cheung Sha-ba shop company, Jumping Castles HK talks When did you open Jumping Castles HK and what makes it unique?
Jumping Castles HK began operations in March 2011. We offer the highest quality products with exceptional, personalised customer service. We travel to wherever the client is to provide bouncy castles for children’s parties.
What resources did you need to start up your own business?
Top-quality innovative products, a website, storage facilities and a delivery truck! The most important resource is passion and motivation. You need to be 110 percent committed to your business endeavour.
Do you enjoy being self-employed?
Yes, we get immense satisfaction from seeing happy customers and their children.
What has been the most important contribution to your success? www.jumpingcastles.com.hk
Doing the simple things well, such as timely responses to emails and phone calls, turning up on time, offering clean and well presented products and always asking, “What can we do better?”.
Which well-known businessperson inspires you?
We’re inspired by the smiles on children’s faces as their bouncy castle comes to life.
Tell us three things you enjoy outside work?
I have a keen interest in cricket and rugby. On Saturday mornings I coach a junior cricket team called the mighty South Lantau Buffalos!
How do you keep your customers interested?
We’re always looking for new and innovative products and ideas. We receive new castles every six months. Repeat customers are at the heart of our success. It’s important to offer them something different each time they use our service.
How do you see your business looking in five years’ time?
We’d like to become the one-stop party event entertainment shop. This year we’ve expanded into helium balloons and water-sports inflatables.
Call Jumping Castles HK on 9662 1747, email info@jumpingcastles.com.hk, or visit www.jumpingcastles.com.hk
Join your Lantau community live @ www.arounddb.com
MUI WO FERRY SCHEDULES Mon-Fri (except Public Holidays)
Sat, Sun and Public Holidays
From DB 3.10pm
From DB
From Mui Wo
7.15am ＊ 8.45am # 10.45am 11.45am # 1.15pm 3.05pm # 4.15pm 6.15pm 8.05pm
7.45am ＊ 9.15am # 11.15am 12.15pm # 1.45pm 3.35pm # 4.45pm 6.45pm 8.30pm
From Mui Wo 7.20am -
(Above ferry route via Peng Chau)
＊ Operates on Saturday (except Public Holidays) only ＃ Operates on Sunday and Public Holidays only
Your ultimate guide in Tung Chung and South Lantau
LANTAU NUMBERS
TUNG CHUNG
SOUTH LANTAU
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
AQ Prettiness Jumping Castles Patchwork Jack Shoesee Foldable
FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS
9527 6202 9662 1747 9762 1957 9765 2798 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS
360° Sports Bar & Restaurant Airport Izakaya Andante Asian Taste Chef’s Express Deli Viet Bistro Delifrance Café Aficionado China Coast Bar & Grill Dragon Inn Erawan Essence Federal Palace Restaurant McDonald’s Delivery Moccato Olea Pizza Hut Regala Café & Dessert Bar Rouge Skycity Bistro Spaghetti House Starz Wine Bar Zentro Garden
2109 4360 2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4360 6504 4208 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
HEALTH & WELLBEING
Asian Hairdressers 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
3147 4088 2109 9396 2109 2288 2988 1534 2328 7282 2109 6800 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626
Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bombay Café Casa Brasil Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear Como Lake 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 HEALTH & WELLBEING
Dalcroze Impact Fitness Jill Marshall Pilates South Lantau Paddle Club Tony’s Salon
2421 8088 9625 1392 2988 1488 HOTELS
Novotel Citygate Regal Airport Hotel Hong Kong 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
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
2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1694
6627 4806 6385 0304 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
HOME & REPAIRS
Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering
2984 0222 2984 1847 2984 7471 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 6331 8974 2984 7982 2984 0418 2984 1265 2983 8931 2980 2582 9160 5986 2980 2699
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 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
LEARNING CENTRES
COMMUNITY & HEALTH 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, North Plaza Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Healthcare IMI (Natural Medicine Clinic) Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza
2987 0855 2259 3422 2988 1515 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 8120 7835 2666 6183 2834 7276 2537 1087 2987 7575 2987 9003 2259 3422
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
Lullaby Layette Online Boutique for Newborns & Infants 5600-7605, info@lullabylayette.com www.lullabylayette.com In Style Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic Start-rite shoes
2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098
FINANCIAL SERVICES HSBC Travelex Money Exchange, North Plaza Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd
2233 3000 2682 1210 2987 1851
Future Stars Dance Academy
2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 0061 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2765 5700 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428
Apple Travel
Dance classes based on the ISTD requirements conducted in a fun, disciplined and safe environment. 9740 0171 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com
The Best Travel Agency in DB 2987 2626 cas@appletravel.com
At Home in DB
HK School of Highland Dance
Information & Services for Residents of DB. Expat Relocation, Newcomer Orientation, Tours, Courses, Networking 9769 4701 sue@athomeindb.com www.athomeindb.com
Highland Dance classes now available at MI Studio.Teacher qualified by the SDTA. All ages welcome 9123 0863 highlanddancehk@gmail.com
Island Dance
Harvey Law Group
A dance school offering ISTD Freestyle, Hip Hop & Tap & RAD Ballet classes from Monday to Saturday at DBRC & Club Siena. All ages welcome. 2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk
International Canadian Law Firm in DB North Plaza offering you customised legal services on the many aspects of your personal and professional life 2416 8618 www.harveylawcorporation.com
PetcoDB Grooming & Pet Services With Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love 2914 0382 info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com
French kindergarten open for registrations for school year 2014-2015 from K1 to P6. LG-05, DB North Plaza 6710 0391 info@ecole-discovery.com www.ecole-discovery.com
Little Explorers
HOME Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre Marc James Design, North Plaza Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre
OTHER SERVICES
A fun place for little ones to play and have loads of fun, fun, fun! 9327 0507 littleexplorers@team-fear.com
Amity Shoe Care Bookazine, DB Ferry Dymocks Fotomax Movieland My Pet Shop, North Plaza Pen ‘n Paper Pets Gallery P-Solution The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services
REAL-ESTATE AGENCIES
Playtime Kids DB Playgroup run by Montessori-trained teacher. From 18 months to 4 years. 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com
LEARNING CENTRES
Musical Drama – Acting – Musical Theatre Tues & Wed classes at Discovery College 4 to 12 yrs - 2 fully costumed performances a year 8122 9475 admin@actingantics.com www.actingantics.com
Brightsparks Playgroup Fun, safe and interactive environment for your children. 9632 4287
British Studio of Art Hong Kong
New art studio in DB for 2 year-olds to adults www.bsoahk.com bsoahk@gmail.com 9132 5249
Dumper Trucks & Daisies A Montessori-based playgroup programme that focuses on the growth and development of the whole child. From 16 months to 4.5 years old 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com www.dumpertrucksanddaisies.com
82
May 2014
2987 4538 2987 1373 2987 8494 2914 2378 2987 7111 2987 8873 2987 8898 2987 0428 2987 1777 2987 1368 2987 5151
Lifestyle Boats & Homes Let us take the stress out of homework Homework Club and Private Tutoring, conveniently located. 9522 3297 info@wiseowl.com.hk www.wiseowl.com.hk
Woodentots
2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Centaline Property Agency Ltd EPS Property Consultants Ltd Headland Homes Hong Kong Boats & Homes Kingsland DB Land Master Property Savills Hong Kong Ltd
Woodentots is a Montessori playgroup providing a caring and nurturing environment in the Plaza. Run by a qualified Montessori teacher for children aged 2 1/2 - 5 years. 6108 9131 woodentotsdb@gmail.com Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Learning Centre HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten, North Plaza Treasure House
6114 2436 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
2987 8484 2987 2023 2987 2088 6055 0146 2987 2987 2987 6238 2987 1919
RESTAURANTS & HOTELS
% Arabica Coffee Roaster & Farm DB North Plaza 2885 1323 info@arabica.hk www.arabica.hk 22º North
2987 2298
Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza
2295 8288
Berliner
2987 8203
Café Duvet
2987 0966
Caramba Mexican Cantina
2987 2848
Ebeneezer’s
2987 0036
First Korean Restaurant
2987 9123
Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise
2987 4768
Hemingway’s by the Bay
2987 8855
DB NUMBERS RESTAURANTS & HOTELS Figos Seaside Café 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 Subway Super Super The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zaks
SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT 2987 2915 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 2914 0005 2914 1308 2777 8411 2682 0068 2682 8108 2987 6232
All your sporting needs right here in DB 2914 1323 info@sportsworld.hk
Personal Fitness Training (for one to one or small groups) Studio P/S Petra Seeholzer Lang 6605 2727 petraseeholzer@yahoo.com
The HIT Room Bodypump, Grit Strength, Boxing, Core, TRX, High Intensity Training. Located at North Plaza 6621 7410 www.thehitroom.com.hk info@thehitroom.com.hk
Tinytots A professional sports play program specially designed for children 16 months - 5 years of age. 34887724 info@tinytots.com.hk www.tinytots.com.hk
DB COBRAS JUDO CLUB Offering Judo classes for ages 5+ Mon, Wed & Sat classes available elliot@cobrasportshk.com
Club Siena Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club
Classical Pilates, Yoga and more! 6624 7812 susan@embody.hk www.embody.hk
2987 7382 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381
TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES
DB Party Lovers For all your party needs in DB 9132 5249 dbpartylovers@gmail.com www.dbpartylovers.com
Embody
Bo Bo House Toysland
2987 4230 2987 7859
TRANSPORT SERVICES
Movement Improvement Pilates, Yoga, Spinning, TRX, Zumba, Personal Training The complete solution on your doorstep at DB North Plaza 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk
Sportsmanship Gymnastics Programs, Health Consultancy, Weight Management & Nutritional Supplements 2870 3524 www.sportsmanship.usana.com
View the business directory @ www.arounddb.com
Limousine Rental
Limo service in HK & China • pick up from / to DB Tunnel • direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@gmail.com ACCESSDB Rehabus DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services
6283 9270 2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351 2987 6348 2987 0208 2987 9368
UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES 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
WELLBEING
Specialists in Pregnancy & Newborn Care Tel: 2851 9654 clientservices@amotherstouch.com.hk www.amotherstouch.com.hk
Body Talk Holistic therapy for illness, stress, sports injury & learning disorders 6683 5755 angie@bodytalksystem.com.hk www.bodytalksystem.com.hk
Child & Family Development Practice Developing potential, exploring possibilities www.childdevelopment.com.hk info@childdevelopement.com.hk
My Health Coach Lulu Improve your life balance through health and self awareness. I am able to offer a bespoke program just for you. lulu@myhealthcoachlulu.com www.myhealthcoachlulu.com
M Spa Provides door-to-door treatment service. Conveniently located in the Plaza. Reflexology, massage, pedicure/manicure. 2987 0614
Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266
MOW | Grooming & Skin Care
HK Dragons Football Club Football for 2.5- to 14- year old girls and boys 2987 4274 www.dragons.hk
2811 0788 2824 5000
A Mother’s Touch
Studio PS
CAISSA Chess Club HK The Club gets together at the DB North Plaza Community Center 9681 2896 contact@caissahk.com www.caissahk.com
Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department
Sports World
SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT
UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES
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
A unique retail & treatment space at DBN, that caters to your grooming, skin care & therapeutic requirements 2499 8826 / 6773 3103 www.mowhk.com mowhk@mowhk.com Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch Spa Siena
2987 0283 2987 2060 2987 4112 2987 9198 2987 7382
Around DB's June 2014 issue coming out
May 30 May 2014
83
OUT THERE
BENEVOLENT DESPOT Prepare for a Titanic-sized laugh as Peter Sherwood reveals what he would do if he was King of the World (or at least of Disco Bay)
I
n Australia around the time when the future island continent was beginning to separate from South America and drift west, I got ready to go to university. But I missed the bus. Since then I’ve tried to know everything. I am not yet King of the World, but when I reach that God-like status a few things around here will be very different. I won’t be heavy handed; a bit of a benign Putin – hard but fair. Sort of a Lee Kuan Yew on steroids but with none of that fake Singaporean democracy stuff, and minus the Chewing Gum Police – more fun and a lot less painfully tedious. Disco Bay, prepare for change!
By divine right For starters: anyone wearing Lycra on a bike will be sent to live in France.
Photo courtesy of www.workinginhongkong.com
The ferry will have a free bar. Travelling time to and from Central is increased to 90 minutes each way. Anyone who doesn’t like it can take the bus or stay home. This is not a discussion. The old, small and ohso-slow ferries to Peng Chau and Silvermine Bay will forever and always be old, small and oh-so-slow.
84
Stating the obvious will be an offence: anyone suggesting that DB is ‘inconvenient’ will be sentenced to 12 months in Singapore without parole. Local buses will play a loud and continuous loop of Celine Dion singing My Heart Will Go On – and a
centre and Asia’s biggest pub. Picnic in the Park will last a month – and you can camp out.
Further decrees People leaving trash on plaza tables will find that when they try to get up and return to their caves they are nailed to their seats. Stone paving in DB Plaza made to look like old Portugal will carry a huge painted sign saying, ‘Made to look like old Portugal’. Just for fun.
The old ferries to Peng Chau and Mui Wo get to stay
promotional video on the efficacy of moving the lower limbs. The ‘water’ at the beach will be changed for real water. The golf course will be turned over to allotments for organic farming and the recreational vegetation of your choice. Golfers are assigned to the more useful task of slashing jungle on hiking trails. Discovery College will be declared a space station – and launched there. Homework is abolished. All children must go crazy playing in DB Plaza every afternoon. (Intolerant King of the World? Not me.) Hong Kong Disneyland moves from Sunny Bay to the centre of Beijing. It is replaced with the Forbidden City which will be developed into a squash
Anyone employing jack hammers to renovate their property will be shoved on Air Canada to Winnipeg. (Avaricious Canadian tax authorities are duly notified.) Italian names for residential developments will be changed to the monikers of famous American Mafia bosses: Al Scarface Capone Cloisters, John Gotti Gardens, Bugs Moran Mansions, etc. Note to those living in Chianti: the outside straw packaging around a Chianti bottle is called a ‘fiasco’. Still feeling a bit superior? I will rename Seven Eleven ‘Eight Twelve’ – because I can. Don’t even think about arguing.
Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 15 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and he has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.
Find more from Peter May 2014
All golf carts will immediately be made to look like 1960s American classic cars. Note: golf carts will be clamped three times a week but I’m not telling you when.
at www.arounddb.com