Around DB May 2015 Issue

LENDING A HELPING HAND DBERS CHAMPIONING DOMESTIC HELPER RIGHTS

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A FAMILY AFFAIR MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS IN BUSINESS TOGETHER e at r nd k the eeke tiban n i W , a w C Ci d a e t s H K F s an t i c k o t h e eve n c h e n s t r S K it pas Socce mer’s her! c Far vou

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Meet the finalists in Around DB’s Young Writer’s Competition 2015 Read the winning story on page 30 Join your community online

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MAY 2015

MAY 2015

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明翠台 PARKRIDGE

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Well appointed unit with good size living space.

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觀星樓 STARVIEW

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Renovated two beds on high floor, sea views and easy access to all transport. Vacant sale.

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Beautifully renovated apartment with amazing sea views. Ideal for family. Vacant Sale.

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High quality renovation throughout with panoramic sea views and in a tranquil location. For sale with tenancy.

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MAY 2015 FEATURES 32

32

PROFILE Meet this year’s finalists in the Around DB Young Writer’s Competition

38

IN FOCUS Find out who is making May, DB Helper Appreciation Month

44

FAMILY MATTERS Mothers and daughters in business together

53

MONEY Cross-border planning – your taxes and estate

58

ESCAPES Hiking the Camino de Santiago across Spain

65

LIFESTYLE Outdoor living trends

28

COMPETITION Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com

30

TALKING POINTS Around DB Young Writer’s Competition: Read the winning story

51

MOMENTS DB pilot Matt McLaughlin publishes Papua New Guinea memoir

72

DB FACES Candid community snaps

84

OUT THERE Thoughts on island life

REGULARS

38

AGENDA 44

10

IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news

69

HK HAPPENINGS Find fun things to do across the harbour

75

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

51 58

LENDING A ND HELPING HA

Readers with a feature story idea, please email rachel@baymedia.com.hk If you would like to publicise a local event, email hannah@baymedia.com.hk For general enquiries, email info@baymedia.com.hk To advertise, email lissa@baymedia.com.hk Around DB, Bay Media, 7E Glamour Court, Discovery Bay Call 2987 0577 | Fax 2987 0533

For the latest Around DB updates, find us on

Facebook

PIONING DBERS CHAM ER RIGHTS HELP DOMESTIC

A FAMILY AFFAIR

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2015 Competition ng Writer’s nd DB’s You on page 30 lists in Arou ing story 2002 Read the winn in DB since Publishers

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Instagram

MAY 2015

ON THE COVER The winners: Around DB Young Writer’s Competition 2015 Photo by Terry Chow

Twitter and www.arounddb.com

YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY EVENTS!

Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk Managing editor Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk Production & operations manager Danielle Higgins danielle@baymedia.com.hk Advertising & sales manager Lissa Morris lissa@baymedia.com.hk Art direction Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk Editorial assistant Hannah Ball hannah@baymedia.com.hk Accounts Beatrice De Magistris accountant@baymedia.com.hk Photography Baljit Gidwani Illustration Fred Boot Rift Leschinsky

Find more photos of community events @ www.arounddb.com

Photos by Terry Chow

WINNING YOUNG WRITERS! Dymocks, DB Plaza

Congratulations to the winner of the Around DB Young Writer’s Competition 2015, Janica Bergas, whose story, posted on the Around DB Facebook page from April 14 to 19, gained an impressive 615 votes. Coming a worthy second and third place respectively, were Ruhi Kumar and Maria Andreeva. This year’s three finalists, and the three runners-up, were presented with their prizes at a ceremony in Dymocks DB on April 23. To read more about these winning young writers, turn to page 32; to read the winning article, turn to page 30.

EASTER FUN!

Contributors this month Angie Bucu Josh Clery (intern) Jane Clyde Peter Sherwood Annette M. Houlihan Rebecca Tomasis Printing Fantasy Printing 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion, 63 Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong 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.

Throughout DB

Photos by Josh Clery and courtesy of DBRC and Auberge Discovery Bay

On April 3, kids hunted for 30,000 eggs hidden in the sand on Tai Pak Wan, and Discovery Bay Recreation Club held its Happy Bunny Egg Hunting Party. At Auberge Discovery Bay’s Easter Carnival, April 3 to 7, kids enjoyed games, a magic show and bubble soccer.

IN&AROUND DB

SPRING HAT PARADE Bookazine, DB North Plaza

A 50-strong crowd showed off their handmade spring bonnets at Bookazine’s Spring Hat Parade on April 19. Hats were designed by children using bows, flowers, beads and gems.

www.evoqueportraits.com

EARTH DAY Sam Pak Wan

Around 100 parents and students from Bayview House of Children Discovery Bay teamed up with local eco-charity, Plastic Free Seas, on April 22, to celebrate Earth Day with a beach clean-up.

Photos courtesy of Bayview House of Children - Discovery Bay

May 2015

11

IN&AROUND DB

BOOK WEEK Discovery College

Discovery College’s annual book week, April 20 to 24, saw students take part in a reading challenge to raise funds for a school library in Hebei, China. At the end of the week, students dressed up as their favourite fictional characters for the Book Week Parade on April 24.

Photos by Danielle Higgins

BONAQUA ACTION SPRINT Start: Tai Pak Wan

On April 26, the third race in Action Asia Events’ Bonaqua Action Sprint Adventure Run series saw over 400 athletes hike and run 13 kilometres in and around DB. Congratulations to the first male finisher, Mui Wo resident Clement Dumont, and to Pui O resident Zein Williams, winner of the women’s title in all three races in the series both this year and last. DB runner Emma Bruce placed a worthy second on April 26.

www.actionasiaevents.com and www.evoqueportraits.com

DB HELPER’S HIMALAYAN CLIMB Congratulations to DB resident and domestic helper Liza Avelino, who last month ventured to eastern Nepal to climb 6,189-metre Island Peak. We are featuring Liza in the next issue of Around DB, and you can hear all about her Himalayan climb at Hemingway’s on May 5 at 7.30pm. This talk is one of many events being organised in DB in May as part of Helper Appreciation Month. To find out more, turn to page 38.

12

May 2015

Photo courtesy of Liza Avelino

OZZIE COZZIE ROADSHOW SAT 2 nd & SUN 3 rd MAY

Discovery College - Black Box Theatre

Audition, rehearse & perform in a fully costumed play!

Fabulous Costumes Every student gets a meaningful role with dialogue Learn acting, stagecraft, presentation & performance skills Improve thinking, reading & speaking in clear expressive English Program 1 (5-6yrs): 10:00am-12:00pm “The Music Box” Program 2 (7-12yrs): 1:00pm-5:00pm “A Case to Answer” “The Music Box” Is it really just a music box, or is there something magic about it. Pip & Squeak, two talking mice have their suspicions as do Maisy & Mack, the children who found it. What adventures will the music box take them on?

“A Case to Answer” Minty & Monty have had their world rudely interrupted by Tick & Tock, two talking clocks that never stop arguing. To top that off, Romus, a spoilt mean boy, has stolen the toy soldier from Fran & Fritz’s toyshop. Join Minty, Monty & the rest of the toys as they brave the wicked cats, TC, BC, AKA to rescue the toy soldier.

EARLY BIRD FEES : Program 1: $1620.00 - Program 2: $3240.00 (EB offer ends May 30th – Fees include costumes, performance rights & certificate) Register online at http://ctchk.actingantics.com REGISTER: ENQUIRIES:

Phone: 8122 9475 (if unanswered please leave a message) Email: deborah@actingantics.com

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BEER DASH South Lantau

DB and Lantau residents had a blast at this year’s Lantau International Beer Dash on April 18. Congratulations to the first male finishers, Kurt Lynn and David Gallagher, and the first female finisher, Jo Seymour. The prize for bestdressed team went to Lok Wah 101-108, who came as Egyptians and cavemen.

Photos by Terry Chow

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To make a booking please call 2987 2266 • Follow us on Facebook for updates: Nailed It DB Thank you to the DB community for your continuous support. See you soon!

Coming to Discovery Bay from September!

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Find more information and events @ www.arounddb.com

HELPER APPRECIATION MONTH Throughout DB

May is Helper Appreciation Month – a community-driven initiative set up to ‘inspire public and private acts of gratitude and appreciation towards domestic helpers’. Turn to page 38 to meet the DB founders, and encourage your helper to attend some of the free, month-long events: • May 5, 7.30pm, Hemingway’s. Four inspirational DBers (Liza Avelino, Phil Smith, Joy Carbonell and Adam Nichols) share their experiences of personal empowerment • May 13 and 20, 7.30pm, Discovery Bay International School, Stressmanagement workshops with Céline Pellarin of www.sophrology.hk and Sophie Grangier of www.sophrologydb.com • May 19 and 21, 7pm, Discovery College. Enrich training sessions: Money Wise Migrants • May 28, 7pm, Discovery College. Enrich training session: Speak Up For more event details, visit www.arounddb.com.

20 YEARS OF RUNNING! Throughout DB

May 1

Happy 20th anniversary to the Discovery Bay Running Club (aka the DB Runners). Inaugural members, Andy Pickles and Dave Smith are still running with the club and encourage anyone who loves to run, either to keep fit or compete, to get involved. Club members run together on a weekly basis and many enter races around Hong Kong. For more details, contact Martin Knight on martink101@icloud.com.

HONG KONG: PAST AND PRESENT The Kinnet, Sheung Wan Check out John Thompson’s Hong Kong: Past and Present, a brand-new exhibition curated by DB resident Ed Stokes, founder and director of The Photographic Heritage Foundation. Images taken by John in 1868 are shown alongside photos commissioned this year by The Photographic Heritage Foundation. The Kinnet is open from 10am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday. To find out more, call 3968 7600. ut Througho y a M

Photo courtesy of Discovery Bay Running Club

ut

Througho May

Photos courtesy of The Photographic Heritage Foundation

18

May 2015

TO ADOPT A PET through Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS), call Jacqui Green on 9197 4371, for Hong Kong Paws Foundation (PAWS), call Kat Cheung on 9485 5188.

IN&AROUND DB May 2

STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET

across from Haven Court, 2pm to 4.45pm.

For more information, call 2238 3617.

OZZIE COZZIE ROADSHOW

3 May 2-

OpenSpace, DB North Plaza Kit yourself out with top-quality swimwear from Australia, New Zealand, the US and Hong Kong at the Ozzie Cozzie Roadshow from 10am to 6pm. To view the collection online, visit www.ozziecozzieco.com.

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BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Discovery Bay International School Discovery Bay International School’s Battle of the Bands, taking place at the school’s Globe Theatre from 3.30pm to 5.30pm, sees student bands (from both primary and secondary age groups) each perform two songs. Performances are judged on originality, musicality, stage presence and the ‘X Factor’. Prizes include the chance to perform live at Hemingway’s. For more information, visit www.dbis.edu.hk.

May 5

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y 10 Ma

May 10

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY to all

SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET

the fantastic mothers in our DB and Lantau community! Read all about DB mothers and daughters in business together, on page 44.

in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm. To book a stall at the August 9 market, sign up from May 13 to 27 at www.handmadehongkong.com.

DB AID FOR NEPAL

Relief efforts are underway to aid those in Nepal, India and Bangladesh affected by the devastating, 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck the region on April 25. DB resident Parmila Gurung Christensen and Uncle Russ owner, YB Rai are among the first collecting food and clothing, planning fundraising and coordinating aid efforts with the Red Cross and other charities. For updates, look to www.arounddb.com and the Around DB Facebook page. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this disaster.

IMI HEALTH TALK Discovery College

Attend a free child-focused health talk at 6.30pm. Integrated Medicine Institute’s founding director, Dr Graeme Bradshaw and homeopathic/ naturopathic physician, Dr Benita Perch are suggesting natural solutions to break the cycle of antibiotics, overcome allergies, asthma and eczema, effectively reduce environmental toxicity and support the wellbeing of children and teens.

To reserve your seat, email pta@dc.edu.hk; for more information, visit www.imi.com.hk. y 12 Ma

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May 2015

19

IN&AROUND DB

DB BROTHERS IN THE SOUND OF MUSIC!

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai Look out for DB brothers, Jonny and Teddy Sealey, who (both) play Friedrich von Trapp in THE SOUND OF MUSIC, showing in Hong Kong this month. The brothers, who have lived in DB 1 2 e for the past three years, were selected from 600 local children who auditioned. Just 20 local kids n u May 15-J were chosen to share the roles of six of the seven von Trapp children. Read more about Jonny and Teddy in our June issue.

Photo by Josh Clery

10TH SPORTSMANSHIP MEET Discovery College

17 May

JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP at Sam Pak Wan,

organised by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, at 1pm. Visit www.dbgreen.org.

4 May 2

Don’t miss the 10th Sportsmanship Friendly Meet, which sees more than 200 Sportsmanship gymnasts, aged three to 15, show off their gymnastics skills from 8.30am to 6pm in the Discovery College Sports Hall. Funds raised go to the nonprofit, Harmony Home Association, Taiwan, which helps those living with HIV/ AIDS. “Sportsmanship Gymnastics has been www.arounddb.com running in DB since 2003. We’re excited to have our 10th meet, since it means over 2,000 gymnasts have had fun and gained recognition with us,” says the company’s founder, 18-year DB resident Charles Chan. To find out more, visit the Sportsmanship International Facebook page.

DB FOOTBALL CHAMPS! Hong Kong Football Club

-31

29 May

Catch Discovery Bay Football Club, who were crowned League Champions in the Hong Kong Legal League on April 18, taking part in the HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens, alongside teams from some of Europe’s top clubs. To win tickets to see them play, turn to page 20.

Photo by Marcin Klocek

Photo courtesy of Discovery Bay Football Club

Celebrating Sportsmanship 10th Anniversary Friendly Meet in Discovery Bay After Party!

May 24 (Sunday) from 6.15pm to 9pm Bayside Dental Terrace (Unit 1, G/F, Office Block 1, DB North) Invite your friends & family to celebrate a joyful & memorable time at the Sportsmanship Friendly Meet After Party!

Meet and mingle with Harmony Home kids and volunteers! Lucky draw and plenty of food & drink!

Thank you Bayside Dental for all the food & drinks with the fantastic venue and BBQ! Looking forward to sharing your experience with all performers, Ex-Sportsmanship Gymnasts, teachers, parents and supporters!

RSVP Sportsmanship Charles Chan facebook by May 23 sportsmanshiphk@gmail.com

IN&AROUND DB

SAVE THE DATE DB PIRATES’ BALL

-7 June 5

Auberge Discovery Bay The whole community is invited to attend the annual DB Pirates Ball, themed this year on the 1920s. For early-bird tickets, available through May 18, visit www.dbpirates.com.

June 6

0 June 2

www.islanddance.com.hk

ISLAND DANCING

Photo by Terry Chow

Y-Theatre, Chai Wan

Tickets to see DB’s Island Dance students performing in their annual end-of-term show, Once Upon a Dance, go on sale on May 5. To book tickets, visit www.urbtix.hk, or call 3761 6661.

DB DRAGON BOATING Tai Pak Wan and DB Plaza

Photo by Sharon McEneff

Mark your diaries for the annual DB Dragon Boat Races and Carnival – one of the biggest events of the year!

NEW IN DB NEW-LOOK NAIL SALON Check out the newly renovated nail salon Nailed It, which celebrated its re-opening in DB Plaza on April 17. To book an appointment, call 2987 2266. For updates, check the Nailed It DB Facebook page.

Photo courtesy of Errol Samuels

Photo courtesy of Stephanie Fung Sin Tung

PIANO LESSONS

BLACK-OUT BOXING

DB resident Stephanie Fung Sin Tung is an accomplished concert pianist offering piano lessons for students of all ages and abilities through Piano Lessons DB, launched in February this year.

She also offers piano accompaniment for public performances, examinations and auditions. To find out more, visit www.pianolessonsdb.com, call 9632 9644, or email pianolessonsdb@gmail.com.

Sixteen-year DB resident Errol Samuels (formerly of Boxfit) is offering high-level boxing coaching through Black-Out Boxing at the Movement Improvement fitness studio in DB North Plaza.

Classes, held on Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays, focus on precise boxing techniques to strengthen and condition your body. To sign up, call 6926 2168, or email errofit168@yahoo.com.

22

May 2015

Photo by Hannah Ball

Your Dream Bike At Sky Blue Bikes we stock a wide range of bikes suitable for all types of cycling, but for many, the ultimate bike is one that is made for you.

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We Can Help We are the sole Hong Kong distributor of Legend from Italy. Legend make some of the most desirable frames available in your choice of Carbon Fibre, Titanium, Steel or Aluminium. We work with you and Legend from your first enquiry until you pick up the bike at our shop, or directly from the factory in Italy. We fit you as part of your order and go through the details of the ordering process to make sure that the bike delivered is in fact your dream bike.

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IN&AROUND DB

LANTAU EVENT HIGHLIGHTS RAIDLIGHT LANTAU

For more Lantau events, read Life on Lantau, check the Around DB Facebook page, or visit www.arounddb.com

Start: Nam Shan Lantau Base Camp’s RaidLight Lantau is the first of two races in the RaidLight HK Stairmaster series. The 20-kilometre course takes runners over both Sunset Peak and Lantau Peak twice. The race starts at 9am, and entry is limited to runners aged 18 and up. To enrol before May 10, or find out more, visit http://events.lantaubasecamp.com.

May 17

16 May

Photo courtesy of Eva Ewins

MOTHER EARTH GROOVE Cheung Sha Lower Beach

yamnut.wordpress.com

Head to the beach for a family fun day, organised by Lantau volunteer group South Lantau Groove, from 2pm to 6pm. Entry to Mother Earth Groove, which supports the local environmental charity, Ark Eden, costs HK$100 per person. For more information, call 9861 6657, email eva@dragons.hk, or visit the Mother Earth Groove Facebook page.

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FREE information evening at Discovery College, for parents and teachers of children and teens:

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IMI’s Founding Director Graeme Bradshaw and Homeopathic & Naturopathic physician Dr Benita Perch share their extensive wisdom and clinical experience, and discuss how common health challenges can be overcome by addressing the root cause, without dependence on drugs and medications.

Discover natural solutions to: • Break the cycle of antibiotics: Beat recurrent coughs, colds and flu, strengthen immunity and improve attendance at school • Overcome allergies, asthma and eczema: Are food intolerance and digestive disturbances the hidden link?

• Cope with environmental toxicity: How to effectively reduce toxic load for your family?

• Support emotional wellbeing for children and teens: Improve concentration, learning and behaviour; reduce anxiety, depression and mood fluctuations

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KIP KIDS Get Moving For Summmer!

• Limited places available • Ages 5 years and up

Join us and KIPMOVIN! For details please contact thomas@kipmovin.com Like us on facebook to keep up-to-date with KIPMOVIN Tel: +852 61803256

WE ARE NOW LOOKING FOR THE FOLLOWING Head Chef

With speciality in modern Western nutrition and health cuisine, including gluten free cooking, low sugar and low sodium.

Must have working knowledge of food allergies and intolerances.

Assistant Manager –

Must speak Cantonese and English

Bar tenders

Must speak Cantonese and English

Chefs

Must speak Cantonese and English.

5 day week, medical benefits and good working environment for new modern Western beach café and bar opening in Cheung Sha in June

Please email your CV and references to info @ thebeachhousehk.com

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

d importer and Owner of high-end, British foo DB resident, Gillian distributor GMT Foods, four-year Thompson talks shop

List your Lantau business for free @ www.arounddb.com

Tell us something about your business.

I started GMT Foods in 2009 when I began importing my brother’s handmade preserves (York Preserves and The Mercers of Yorkshire) into Hong Kong. I have since added Godminster Vintage Cheddar and Cotswold Curers (chorizo and salami) to my range, plus organic Fair Trade teas from the English Tea Shop. My aim is to source high-end, British products made by small producers, and to make them available here.

Who inspires you?

Successful business people, who take the risk of walking away from established careers to follow their dreams, like many of my suppliers have done. I also admire chefs like Jamie Oliver for his School Dinners initiative and Rick Stein for his Food Heroes programme. I think that if you do anything with a passion you will succeed!

How did you get GMT Foods on the map?

I approached three local supermarket chains in late 2009, and have been supplying Dairy Farm Group ever since. You’ll also find GMT brands at a few independent retailers like Salt and Pepper in DB, and Loi Chan’s Frozen Meat Company and The Village Bakery in Mui Wo. I love getting to know my customers, so once a month, I have a stall at the Discovery Bay Sunday Market in DB Plaza.

Are you active online?

We now deliver all over Hong Kong through online stores, like DB-owned www.sooqcentral.com and www.kinoa-shop.com. And I’m designing a new website, with a page dedicated to my family’s favourite recipes. I use our Facebook page to introduce new products, and post special offers, food photos, tips and recipes.

Photos courte

sy of Gillian

Thompson

How do you see your business looking in five years’ time?

I see myself remaining niche and only dealing in the high-end food market, but with more emphasis on assisting small British food producers entering the Hong Kong market.

Call GMT Foods on 6647 2292, email gillian@gmtfoodshk.com, like www.facebook.com/gmtfoods or visit www.gmtfoodshk.com.

Probiotics, Supplements, Cleansing & Detox

Available in DB at Just Green or at bodyawakening.net

THE RED LANTERN

Genuine antiques, small pieces of delightful furniture from the late ‘Ching Dynasty’

Six minutes walk from the Mui Wo ferry to the direction of the Silvermine Beach Hotel.

TEL: 2984 0099 FAX: 2980 4833 EMAIL: glandam@netvigator.com

COMPETITIONS

See The Incredible Book Eating Boy or The Wind in the Willows!

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions right here). You have until May 10 to submit your answers. To enter, email info@baymedia.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!

YOUR PRIZE: ABA Productions is offering one reader four A-reserve tickets (worth HK$435 per ticket) to see The Incredible Book Eating Boy on May 29 at 5pm, and one reader four A-reserve tickets (worth HK$435 per ticket) to see The Wind in the Willows on June 5 at 5pm.

Where is the HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens held?

Photo courtesy of Power Sport Images for HKFC

Win tickets to the Soccer Sevens!

Where can you see these shows?

Photos courtesy of ABA Productions

FIND THE ANSWER: Kids aged three to eight will love the stage production of The Incredible Book Eating Boy at Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai, May 29 to 31. Kids of all ages can also delight in the fight to save Toad Hall in The Wind in the Willows, showing June 5 to 7 at the same venue. For tickets, starting at HK$195, visit www.hkticketing.com, or call 31 288 288.

YOUR PRIZE: Hong Kong Football Club is offering one reader three weekend passes (worth HK$300 per pass) to the HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens.

FIND THE ANSWER: At the HKFC Citibank Soccer Sevens, being held from May 29 to 31 at the Hong Kong Football Club, Happy Valley, teams from some of Europe’s top clubs play against sides from Hong Kong, China, Singapore and New Zealand. For tickets, costing HK$160 per day, or HK$300 for a weekend pass, visit www.cityline.com; for more information, visit www.hksoccersevens.com.

Farmer’s Kitchen giveaway YOUR PRIZE: Farmer’s Kitchen is offering two readers a HK$500 Farmer’s Kitchen voucher.

Where does Farmer’s Kitchen source its meat?

Photo courtesy of Emma Pike

FIND THE ANSWER: Farmer’s Kitchen is the first naturally farmed meat company to deliver to both Discovery Bay and Tung Chung. The online store offers high quality, chilled, 100% grass-fed, Australian beef and lamb, and other fine foods.

All orders placed before 12 noon are delivered the next day, excluding Sundays and Mondays. Visit www.farmerskitchen.com.hk.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Vivian Leung, Melissa Stevens and Nicole Woo for tickets to THE SOUND OF MUSIC; Annemay Harnett, Susan Ho, Mike Chow and Patrick Smidts for the crime-fiction giveaway; Samaara Malhotra, Daniel Lam and Momoko Au for tickets to The Piano Guys; Shirley Lo for RugBees’ classes; Keith Hanson for tickets to Showstopper! The Improvised Musical; Suki Yu for tickets to The Fantastical Story Factory; and Paul Aubert for tickets to the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir.

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May 2015

Illustration by Fred Boot

TALKING POINTS

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May 2015

TALKING POINTS

THE ROLE OF

A FATHER

Read the 2015 winning story in the Around DB Young Writer’s Competition, written by 16-year-old Janica Bergas

“D

addy, is he going to be fine?” she asked me, gripping my hand ever so tightly.

Her wide eyes, filled with innocence and hope, tempted me to lie to her, to sugar-coat the sour situation, but she was too smart for that; I couldn’t fool her. All around the crib were nurses going back and forth, adjusting the tubes connected to my son. There’s no way she doesn’t already have a clue about the answer to her question. It’s all so clear, although I wish it wasn’t.

I wish I didn’t already know the answer.

I wish the doctor would have at least given me that small glimmer of hope.

My father had always taught me, ever since I was a young boy, how to be the father of my own family: understanding, fair, and most importantly, loving. I always took into account how he handled tough situations, how strong he was during rough times. He was a great leader and I still had much to learn from him; I had yet to become the leader of my own family.

A leader is someone who would make a decision that would benefit everybody, even if it meant putting himself at risk.

It’s an easy choice between the one that would affect the majority and the choice that would only affect one.

But what if the choice meant that your newborn would die if he were disconnected from life support? What if the choice meant that he had to die by your own hand?

I could think of no proper answer for my daughter at the moment, so I told her to watch him while I went to talk to her mum. If thinking of a way to tell my daughter about the situation was tough, the thought of telling my wife was overwhelming; the immediate future was daunting. She had just given birth to my son believing him to be healthy and normal; probably even excited by the thought of taking him home with us after nine months of waiting, pain and sacrifice.

I told her everything as calmly and as sympathetically as I could.

Everything from how our son was born with an extremely rare disease called Trisomy 13 that required him to stay and be treated in the ICU, to how he wouldn’t survive it.

To my surprise my wife kept her composure. She took a deep breath and looked me square in the eyes.

“And?” she asked me, sensing the concealed thought in my words. I took a deep breath and told her, “Our only two options are either he stays connected to the machine forever or… we shut it down.”

Read all six of the YWC 2015 winning stories

During those few days, I learned so much from my wife, my children, and everyone around me. My kids made each day less of a burden; it made me realise how much they meant to me and how much I should treasure each smile and the laughter that they offered. Together with my wife, they made me see that this was only temporary pain for a lifetime’s worth of happiness. My wife taught me how to regain the strength I lost; she helped me become whole again.

Throughout this hardship, people who I never expected to be were there for us, and helped me appreciate the true friends and family we had.

“Daddy, am I going to be fine?” his eyes ask me on his fifth and last day.

It’s ironic how it takes a life to change a life. He was only with us for a brief amount of time, but he was still able to teach me countless things that would have taken many years to learn.

I saw in his eyes how to live, laugh, and love; how to make each day a day worth living. He really did change my life.

I nodded with a smile, then leaned forward and kissed his forehead.

I whispered, “Thank you”, as I switched the machine off, and watched him take his last breath and withdraw into a permanent imprint on our hearts.

@ www.arounddb.com

May 2015

31

Photos by Terry Chow

PROFILE

32

The three winners: Maria Andreeva, 13, Janica Bergas, 16, and Ruhi Kumar, 17

May 2015

PROFILE

THE WRITE

STUFF

Check out the six best young writers in DB and Lantau. Talk about girl power! Around DB managing editor Rachel Ainsley reports

I

’ve been involved with the Around DB Young Writer’s Competition (YWC) since its conception in 2013, but this year is the first time I’ve taken the opportunity to get on board with the selection process, and mentor one of the finalists. As it turned out, YWC 2015 was a revelation to me.

The calibre of the writing submitted by students as young as 11 was, in my opinion, outstanding, and don’t forget I work with writers’ words for a living.

To say that we mentors, Liz Kerr, Peter Sherwood and myself, had a hard time shortlisting six stories, never mind narrowing our selection down to three, is putting it mildly.

Ultimately, we selected three winners: Janica Bergas, 16, Ruhi Kumar, 17, and Maria Andreeva, 13. And three runners-up: Victoria Cherrington, 18, Haram Yoon, 14, and Maria Bateman,

12. YWC mentors judge the stories submitted ‘blind’ – we know the authors’ ages only – so it strikes me as particularly interesting that all the finalists this year are girls.

All the YWC 2015 finalists are also DB/ Lantau residents (that entrants live or are at secondary school in DB/ Lantau is a YWC requirement). Janica Bergas and Haram Yoon attend YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, Ruhi Kumar is at Discovery College, Maria Andreeva is at Discovery Bay International School, and Victoria Cherrington and Maria Bateman attend West Island School.

In the online vote, conducted on the Around DB Facebook page, April 14 to 19, to which a satisfying 17,000 people responded (by viewing, voting, commenting and sharing), Janica Bergas placed first, Ruhi Kumar second, and Maria Andreeva third.  May 2015

33

PROFILE

Ruhi with her mum

Janica with her mum and school friends

Janica: The role of a father

For YWC 2015, we asked our young, local readers to write a factual account about a life-changing experience, either in their own life or someone else’s. What amazed me, from the entries received, was both the technical calibre and emotional maturity of the writing, and also the sheer scope of the life-changing experiences recounted.

Janica’s first-place story, which you will have already read on the previous pages, focuses on the death of her baby brother, and it’s written from her father’s perspective. Insightful and full of wisdom, it’s an incredible feat of storytelling, particularly from one so young.

In putting this year’s theme out there, we were wide open. We half expected to receive non-fiction accounts about life-changing experiences that have happened to popular celebrities – David Beckham, Guy Ritchie and the like. But as it turned out, all but two of the stories were personal accounts, told from the writer’s point of view.

Interestingly again, it was these two stories, told by Janica and Victoria, about a parent’s experience, that ended up making the final six.

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The six finalists: Maria Andreeva, 13, Ruhi Kumar, 17, Janica Bergas, 16, Maria Bateman, 12, Victoria Cherrington, 18, and Haram Yoon, 14

A life-changing experience

Consider the range of subjects covered by the six finalists alone. From the winners, there is the death of a sibling, the death of a friend, and the onset of a serious illness. And then from the runners-up, there’s an escape from China (in the 1970s), an allnight adventure fuelled by panic over forgotten homework, and an obsessive love affair with a computer.

May 2015

Maria with her parents

Janica’s mentor Liz says: “People say write what you know, but there’s no creativity in that, and it’s cowardly.

Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes, looking at something from another’s perspective, is the point of art and the basis of empathy.

“There’s also the simple fact that Janica made a moment totally alien to me – an only child from a single parent home – ‘get’ the loss of a child and his impact nonetheless,” Liz adds. “That’s hard, and she did it without being maudlin or sensational.”

Reading Janica’s story for the first time, one simply assumes that all will be well by the end, and that the baby will survive. But Janica doesn’t pull any punches; she doesn’t sugar-coat the story with a fictional, Hollywoodstyle happy ending. If the unexpected is the essence of a good short story, she achieves that. What is also striking,

is that in telling it like it is, Janica manages to find so many positives.

Janica, who has lived in Tung Chung for three years, plans to enter a lot more writing competitions in the future, and she’s considering studying Journalism at university. Her favourite authors include J.K. Rowling, Cornelia Funke and C.S. Lewis.

Ruhi: Diagnosed!

Ruhi’s article, which won her second place in this year’s YWC, is by its very nature unexpected. Being diagnosed diabetic is not something many teenagers have to go through, and she talks about the experience with a touching degree of maturity, acceptance and candour.

Ruhi’s skill, and what makes this story so memorable, is the way she ensures we relate, if not to the actual illness itself, to her, as a person. We feel for the child Ruhi, whose symptoms began on the day she first visited Hong Kong Disneyland, and we applaud the now 17-year-old for the way in which she has chosen to deal with her diabetes.

“I chose her article because a diagnosis of diabetes at such an early age can be overwhelming,” says Ruhi’s mentor, Peter. “She clearly made a decision 

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PROFILE not to let the condition define her life and who she is. That is very insightful and positive.

“Ruhi writes about her diabetes positively and without sentimentality, or demands for sympathy.” Peter adds.

“A very powerful and instructive article, that’s also very well written.”

Ruhi, a 17-year DB resident, already has a book under her belt, The Bitter Sweet Life, in which she talks more fully about living with diabetes. She has a Performing Arts scholarship at Discovery College, and is considering studying Law at university here in Hong Kong. Her favourite authors include Sylvia Plath, Margaret Atwood and Mitch Albom.

Maria: Life is changing very fast Maria’s story, in which she recalls the

death of her friend, on the very day she had decided to tell him she loved him, placed a worthy third in the YWC online vote. As her mentor, I will try not to show bias in presenting it to you.

I elected to mentor Maria simply because I can’t get her story out of my head. It reminds me why I love literature, and authors like Donna Tartt, Angela Carter, Lisa St Aubin de Terán and Maggie O’Farrell.

While the subject matter is haunting, so is the quality of Maria’s descriptive language. The writing is poetic and also very immediate. Maria makes this time in her life and the people who influenced her, real to us. The complex way Maria has chosen to present this experience – the story jumps between timelines – is also hugely impressive. It’s ambitious but she pulls it off, with panache.

Read all six of the YWC 2015 winning stories

Something that really surprised me, as I think it will you, is that English is not Maria’s first language. (She is Russian.) She should be applauded for writing so beautifully in a language that is not her mother tongue, and simply for having the courage to enter this year’s YWC. Maria has lived in DB for a little less than a year, and she says she much prefers it to living in her native Russia (Moscow). Life is changing very fast is the first story Maria has written in English, and it won’t be her last. Her favourite authors include Lewis Carroll, Philip Pullman and Georgia Byng.

Power then, to all you all-girl finalists in this year’s Y WC. It’s clear that you have oodles of natural talent, and that your schools are serving you well. @ www.arounddb.com

IN FOCUS

HELPING OUR Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com; illustration by Rift Leschinsky

HELPERS

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As we move into Helper Appreciation Month, Angie Bucu talks to some of those in our community who have committed their time and talent to help improve the lives of migrants and domestic workers here in Hong Kong

T

his May, the whole community has the opportunity to recognise the women and men who are our helpers, carers, friends and family, through Helper Appreciation Month. The idea is very simple: It’s all about inspiring public and private acts of gratitude and appreciation towards Discovery Bay’s domestic workers.

“For a helper it can be an incredibly May 2015

positive thing coming to Hong Kong and what happens at home as a consequence.

Yet the sacrifice to get your family ahead is far greater for a domestic worker than it is for someone like me, who can bring my family with me,” says Steve Chitty, a DB resident since 2012, who has been working with others in the community to set up Helper Appreciation Month. “It is about raising the kindness barometer and drawing out the best in willing people in the community.”

Steve hopes that over time this community-driven initiative, which he credits three-year DB resident Bree Ainsby with having shaped, will generate as much interest as Breast Cancer Awareness month, or Movember for men’s health.

Enabling empowerment Of the many events being organised, a discussion panel at Hemingway’s

IN FOCUS

Solving the debt cycle Delving into the topic of migrant workers and their plight, the subject of debt bondage comes up again and again. Agency ‘placement fee’ loans appear to start the cycle. Then more loans are taken out to pay off these and other loans, always at exorbitant interest rates. It all seems too incredible but everyone tells the same story. It is these injustices that have brought together so many DBers, who volunteer their time and talent to help migrants in need.

Holly Allan has been lending her helping hands to domestic workers for the past 15 years, since she arrived in Hong Kong and DB. “I am passionate about social equality and I wanted to make a difference to empower the weak to fight for their rights and obtain justice,” says Holly. She has the ability to do so as the manager and executive director of Helpers for Domestic Helpers (HDH), a charity that offers free counselling and advice to helpers and connects them with pro-bono legal services through a large network of local and international law firms.

Back Row: Holly Allan, David Bishop, Scott Stiles, Steve Chitty, Francis Chiu and Myriam Bartu Front Row: Maria Garcias, Jinky Cabello, Bree Ainsby, Jennifer Vicencio and Joy Carbonell

on May 5, on the subject of personal empowerment and the effect this can have on those in the migrant and domestic worker community, is sure to draw a lot of interest. Proceeds from the event go to Enrich, a charity co-founded by Myriam Bartu, a DB resident since 2006, that empowers domestic workers to lift themselves out of debt and poverty.

From humble beginnings in 2007, teaching courses from her own apartment here in DB, Myriam now has permanent training premises and an impressive list of corporate sponsors, whose employees can volunteer their time to work with Enrich. The volunteers help in many ways, from training migrants in their own language, to offering mentoring and working on

the financial help desk available on Sundays for one-on-one consultations.

Myriam is driven by her determination to do away with inequality, and by the appreciation that, like the domestic helpers she works to empower, she too is a migrant. “I’ve lived in different countries throughout my life,” she says. “And it’s really just the circumstances of my birth that make my experience different to other ladies, who leave their homes for not so different reasons.”

After participating in the Enrich workshops, 60% of helpers say they are out of debt after two years, 93% are more confident in managing their debt and finances, and 85% say they are able to save regularly.

Holly is very aware of the major issues faced by domestic workers and debt bondage is at the top of the list.

Hong Kong law prohibits agencies from charging domestic workers placement fees of more than 10% of their first month’s wages, but many unscrupulous agencies commonly charge fees in the thousands of dollars.

If domestic helpers can’t pay this fee it is ‘loaned’ to them. So the problems of debt bondage begin here.

Providing free recruitment services DB residents David Bishop and Scott Stiles are in the business of solving this problem at its root through their new commercial enterprise, Fair Employment Agency (FEA), which got into gear in 2013.

While David, principal lecturer at University of Hong Kong’s School of Business, has been involved in helping  May 2015

39

IN FOCUS domestic workers since 2008, Scott became aware of the debt-bondage problems while he was interning in Hong Kong in 2012. “It made me mad,” he says. “It’s the sort of problem that doesn’t need to exist.”

Likewise, Myriam shares the story of Joanne, whose rice trading business in the Philippines sadly failed. A single mum and in debt, she accepted an offer to work in Hong Kong. Within a month she was introduced to Enrich and was able to make a plan to save and repay her debt. Joanne went on to train her daughter in financial management, impacting the next generation by ensuring her daughter won’t have to follow the same path.

FEA’s mission is to “set the market standard for ethical recruitment practices in Hong Kong”, and it does this simply by not charging domestic workers for recruitment services. Scott says: “The response from employers [seeking a helper] has been amazing, and although a lot of people are using us because we do the right thing, a lot are coming to us because we just do a better job [than other agencies].”

The FEA model is a win-win for everyone, says David. “You don't want the person sleeping in the room next to you, who is watching your children or your parents, to be focusing on anything but your children and your parents. You don’t want them to be threatened by others and you yourself don’t want to be threatened by others, and more importantly you’re already being charged for it!”

Scott also has an inspiring story about a helper, who has worked with the same family for many years. When she found herself very ill, the family hired another helper to take care of her.

“One of the neat things about this job is you are reaffirmed about how many good people there are out there in the world. I think in general people want to do the right thing,” says Scott.

DB-based pilot Rift Leschinsky created this stunning logo for Helper Appreciation Month using an imprint of his helper’s hand

Some success stories

There are many win-win stories to share throughout May. Here’s hoping that the generosity and humanity such stories reflect may be the catalyst for Helper Appreciation Month to spill over to other parts of Lantau and Hong Kong in the future.

So many people in our community do what they do, in order to empower migrants and domestic workers, and Helper Appreciation Month draws our attention to their enthusiasm, commitment and successes.

Although the cases that come across Holly’s desk at HDH often have sad beginnings, she shares details of a case that reaffirms that kindness can lead to justice. “A woman brought her domestic worker to HDH for help in filing a case against an agency for forcing her to take out a loan, so that she could pay illegal and extortionate fees to the agency,” Holly says. “We took the matter to the Labour Department and after a lengthy investigation, with the help of the employer’s testimony, the agency was eventually prosecuted and lost its licence to operate.” That’s one less unethical agency in business.

Find it • Enrich, www.enrichhk.org • Fair Employment Agency, www.fairagency.org • Helpers for Domestic Helpers, www.hdh-sjc.org

Helper Appreciation Month • For event highlights, turn to page 18 • For the full lineup, visit www.facebook.com/ pages/May-is-Helper-Appreciation-Month

Find more topical local topics

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May 2015

@ www.arounddb.com

EW

IN

DB

N

We’re all about pregnancy: before, during and after!

Come and visit our new DB Centre Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga (Every Monday Morning) Prenatal - Provides a gentle and safe practice for pregnant women - Offers a supportive environment with other expectant mothers - Reduces stress, strengthens the body’s physical, mental and emotional state, and soothes the discomforts of pregnancy

Postnatal - A great way to support the body’s recovery after birth - Helps the body to be healthy, relaxed, vital and strong again after childbirth, supporting healing, relaxation, and toning

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Help and advice provided by:

- Sophrology therapist Aude Mahoudeau - Doula and yoga instructor Jeanne Hauguel

Contact: 6256 0406

www.centreforpregnancyandnewborn.com

FAMILY MATTERS

A FAMILY

AFFAIR

Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org, Complete Deelite, Island Dance and The Earth Collection

Hanne Nielsen with daughter Christina Jensen

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Helping us celebrate Mother’s Day this month, Rebecca Tomasis takes a look at the special bond mothers and daughters share, and how this can be extended into good business practice

T

here can be no denying that the love we have for our mothers, and then in turn for our daughters, creates some of the most important and at times complicated relationships in our lives. Whether we talk to our mothers every day, once a week or barely once a year, the bond between us can be both an incredibly strong one, and one with the potential for plenty of friction too.

Psychologist Deborah Tannen of Georgetown University in the US puts this down to the fact that women talk more than men do, and that this in turn increases the opportunities for May 2015

disagreements. She argues that the best way to counteract this, and to strengthen the bond between mothers and daughters, is for them to pursue constructive activities together. This could involve learning a new skill, or indulging in a shared hobby.

Certainly, for mother and daughter duo Darit and Inbar Michaelis playing for the same DB Pirates rugby team has been a great way to ensure they experience some of the same joys and challenges. For Darit, the owner of Kidznjoy in Tung Chung, it has proven to be a rewarding way to share time with her teenage daughter, before she heads off to university later this year.

That unique and special bond Famous mother and daughter teams have, of course, achieved some remarkable things together over the years. The scientist Marie Curie and her daughter, Irène JoliotCurie co-conducted pioneering research on radioactivity and both went on to win Nobel Prizes, albeit in different years. The British suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst was supported in her campaign to win women the right to vote by her two daughters, Christabel and Sylvia, and the three founded the Women's Social and Political Union to achieve just that.

FAMILY MATTERS

ta Yu er Jacin daught h it w Chin Agnes

Established as a national holiday in the US in 1914, Mother’s Day has been held ever since to commemorate mothers everywhere. The concept originated in 1908, following a successful campaign by a daughter, Anna Jarvis who wanted a day to honour her own mother’s work as a peace activist during the American Civil War, but also a day to honour mothers everywhere.

To celebrate Mother’s Day, which takes place in Hong Kong on the second Sunday in May, I spoke to some Discovery Bay-based mothers and daughters, who are using their bond to run businesses together.

Madhu Kashya p with d aughter Nimesh a Kashy ap

Whether that sounds like something you might conceivably enjoy doing or your worst nightmare, these mother and daughter duos have found that it works for them both personally and professionally.

A direct line to the boss Madhu Kashyap has owned and run Island Dance in DB since 2008. In 2012 when a vacancy for a dance teacher came up, Nimisha, her daughter, seemed a perfect fit for the role. Both dancing and teaching were something that came naturally to Nimisha, and with a background in marketing also, she has been able

to offer a new and younger vibe to the company.

Talking to Madhu and Nimisha, it is obvious that what drives their success is their shared passion for what they do. While they both focus on different parts of the business and their working days rarely intersect, it is clear that they are both incredibly passionate about teaching children. “Selling confidence” as Madhu puts it, is what unites them and it is their shared ideals that enable them to work so well together.

Agreeing to work with Mum was not without its challenges, notes Nimisha.

Born and raised in DB, she was worried May 2015



45

FAMILY MATTERS

initially about how people would react to a teacher with such a close relationship to Madhu. But her fears proved unfounded, and the pair now combine their experience to appeal to a wide range of parents and children.

Nimisha has found that with her direct line to the boss, minus the micromanagers in between, she is able to express herself freely and put forward ideas that have helped the business. The pair argues that there is less conflict as a result, because they are able to talk directly to each other, without the need to sugar-coat anything.

Clearly defined roles DB resident Agnes Chin and daughter Jacinta Yu of Complete Deelite fell into working together gradually. Some 10 years ago, Jacinta won the rights to the Wilton distributorship in Hong Kong, and she began selling these baking and cake decorating supplies out of the family’s café in DB. The pair now run their business from their shop in Central, where they also provide classes and catering services. Agnes insists the business was driven by her daughter’s passion; she came on board only when asked and when the business had grown to such an extent as to need her.

The key to their success, believes Agnes, lies in their having clearly defined roles within the company.

Agnes deals with business strategy, Jacinta with the marketing and creative side. They don’t interfere in each other’s roles, but their shared creativity brings them together. They also draw a clear line between their personal and business roles. This is something Agnes learned from her own mother, who was once her school principal and English teacher.

Jacinta admits that disagreements inevitably arise between herself and her mother in the course of business, but because of their shared goals, and the clear divide they maintain between home life and work,

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challenges are jointly overcome. Their mission is to better their business for their customers and on that they always agree.

One obvious benefit of this partnership is that as Jacinta has become a mother herself, she has been able to spend time at home with her children, secure in the knowledge that Mum has control of the business. For Agnes, there is nothing more important than strong personal relationships, which must always come before business,

and this seems to drive both of them in everything they do.

Agnes puts it best when she says, “Mothers are born to be elastic, and our daughters should stretch us. As mothers it is our responsibility to stretch, in order to always be there.”

Shared goals and ideals For DB mother and daughter duo, Hanne Nielsen and Christina Jensen of The Earth Collection, working 

ST OWS BE

KN MOTHER

Would you go into business with your mother?

Either way you can celebrate Mother’s Day on May 10

In the lead-up to Mother’s Day, we’ve been out and about asking DBers to share the love – the best part about their relationships with their mums. What’s the best advice their mothers ever gave them? Find out by watching www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXdhf JEg6VU.

FAMILY MATTERS

together was a spontaneous event.

While Christina spent many years pursuing a career in dance and choreography, and Hanne has busied herself with the eco-clothing business since 1993, an offer from Christina to help out in the DB Plaza store has led to what is now a successful and thriving partnership.

the importance of respecting each other in their new working roles. But now almost three years on, the pair say working together has improved their relationship in a number of ways. They communicate better than ever before, and are better able to appreciate and recognise each other’s individual strengths.

Hanne and Christina both find that knowing each other so well makes it easier for them to work together, if only because there is no time wasted trying to figure each other out. And as with all these mother and daughter teams, the fact that they share common business goals (raising money for Anakatira, their charity in Cebu) means they enjoy a great working chemistry.

Mothers and daughters and business seem then to be a recipe for success,

at least on Lantau. The key? Good communication, a shared passion for what you do, clearly defined roles, the ability to draw a line between home and work life, and respect for each other no matter what.

Maybe this is the year we will all be inspired to work a little more closely with our mothers and our daughters.

A very Happy Mother’s Day to you all!

Find it • Complete Deelite, www.completedeelite.com • Island Dance, www.islanddance.com.hk • The Earth Collection, www.theearthcollection.com

What was paramount for Christina and Hanne was learning to understand Find more family-centric stories

@ www.arounddb.com

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MOMENTS

FLYING HIGH DB resident Matt McLaughlin gives Hannah Ball the scoop on his recently published biography, Flying the Knife Edge: New Guinea Bush Pilot

“S

ometimes it’s not about the destination... it’s about the journey,” reads the first line of the blurb on the back of Flying the Knife Edge: New Guinea Bush Pilot, a non-fiction, biographical adventurenarrative written by Matt McLaughlin, pilot, Around DB contributor and DB resident of 17 years.

Due out towards the end of this month, Matt’s book follows the career path that led him to Hong Kong, and to his current position as a captain, flying wide-body international jets for Cathay Pacific Airways. “The last chapter of the book covers the history of Cathay Pacific Airways,” explains Matt. “But the main body of the work describes my three-and-a-half years in Papua New Guinea (PNG), where I gained experience as a bush pilot in one of the world’s most dangerous flying environments.”

terrain – from the perilous Owen Stanley Range to the wreckage-strewn approaches of Mendi and Tari airports.

Cathay Pacific pilots come from all over the world, but it’s doubtful that many have flown such a hard path to Lantau.

“PNG is one of the most rugged places on earth,” says Matt. “It’s beautiful, scary, chaotic and unforgiving. Back in the 1990s, around 10% of PNG’s aeroplanes were lost to accidents each year, and I had many close shaves.

“I began writing notes and stories about my experiences – a sort of trauma release I guess. That’s how

Matt with his enthralling memoir

The journey

Photo by Josh Clery

In this beautifully written memoir, we learn that New Zealand-born Matt volunteered as a missionary pilot in 1992 with the Catholic Overseas Volunteer Service in PNG. “I guess I was after the adrenaline rush I’d had in the New Zealand Air Force – that and the eagerness to gain hours to put in my log book,” says Matt, who notes that during his time in PNG, he completed around 3,500 take-offs, with up to 15 flights a day, six days a week.

Based out of Port Moresby (with no road access) and the remote Southern Highlands Province, Matt describes flying locals across inhospitable

the book began,” Matt adds, explaining that while in PNG, he lost both his roommate and his boss to flying accidents.

Pen to paper With the makings of a book in his head, Matt, a DBer since 1997, who met his wife “on a sunny afternoon in the plaza in 1999”, began putting pen to paper in 2005. “I took two trips back to visit the archives of the PNG Accident Investigation Commission,” he says. “I wanted to write a book that would not only tell my own story, but also the story of others who lost their lives flying, and those still flying there today.

“Last year, I got serious about getting the book finished and I locked myself in my office for several weeks,” Matt explains. “After that it was endless hours spent getting the book self-published.

Even my hobbies – adventure racing and playing the electric violin for DB bands BenziNe and Midlife Crisis – fell by the wayside. Thankfully, my wife Anna is very understanding, as are my two boys, Joshua and Noah!”

As for writing advice, Matt has this to say: “Pick a topic that’s personal to you. Then simply tell your story and do it for no one but yourself.”

Find it

Seru Rabeni set to beef up DB Pirates’ play

Find more local gossip

Flying the Knife Edge: New Guinea Bush Pilot will soon be available at Bookazine in DB North Plaza, and as an ebook.

@ www.arounddb.com

May 2015

51

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MONEY MATTERS

CROSS-BORDER PLANNING Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

Overseas ownership of assets requires you to think carefully not just about taxation but about your estate planning. Eighteen-year DB resident Annette M. Houlihan takes an internationally informed look

I

have now been in Hong Kong almost 20 years and have met an amazing number of people during that period. I have lived on Discovery Bay for nearly 19 of those years, and one of the most common traits to everyone that I have met is the drive to progress and succeed with their lives.

so we have a main residence. We also like to buy houses, condos, boats and the like with some of the excess cash that we have… all in the different parts of the world that we travel to.

Many of us are in mixed-nationality marriages because of this, or perhaps we have travelled somewhere to live because of our partner.

While we are busy gaining wealth and a comfortable status, we accumulate assets – very often property and land. We need a ‘home’,

Before investing overseas, we check the current legal and taxation system under which we buy – stamp duties, property taxes and the like – but we

rarely check the effect our premature demise or the potential changes in tax regimes could have on our investments.

Country of residence Living in Hong Kong allows us the luxury of low income taxes, zero pension or investment taxes, zero capital gains and death duties… in fact, we pay out very little. But if we move back home or to a high tax jurisdiction, our houses, land and investments may cause a severe May 2015

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MONEY MATTERS

problem with taxes. The more we own, the more at risk we are.

For example, Spain introduced income tax for global assets in January this year, for those resident there for more than 183 days per year. This means that all of your assets are calculated and the income you receive, whether dividends, growth, rental, or pension, is added up and taxed up to 50%, depending on the amount. Many people have been buying retirement homes in Spain because before this January, Spain’s taxation was low and favourable. What will these people do now? (Britain would be cheaper to live in for a higher rate tax payer.)

In the UK, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has raised over GBP8 billion in revenue from reformed taxes since April last year. While it has not touched income taxes, it has increased pension, death, wealth and capital-gains taxes. In some cases, it has also reduced allowances to ensure that higher taxes are paid. For example, the Lifetime Allowance on pensions (the amount you could hold) was GBP1.5 million in 2014 but this dropped to GBP1.25 million last month.

Apart from potential taxes on your income, you could pay a further 25% in wealth tax – if you earn extra as a lump sum, this figure rises to 55%. (Pension Transfers (QROPS) is a valuable way to avoid this extra imposition as it takes it out of the UK loop.)

Mixed-nationality marriages can cause havoc with unintentional taxes.

Wherever you buy properties or intend to live will require planning and knowledge; you need to know how to remove your wealth from Hong Kong and minimise the taxable effects in your new country of residence.

Sometimes, you should plan to reside in more than one country; most allow 183 days or less as residence.

Death and taxes Cross-border planning simply allows you to know if what you own is going to cause problems for you and/ or your loved ones in the future. The first

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step in this, through estate planning, is to have your will in order. This document gives instructions for who should gain your assets when you die and who will look after them, if need be, while distribution is being made.

For those of us with minor children, it is particularly important to have some documentation in place.

in Inheritance Tax (IHT). This could have legitimately been mitigated through proper planning.

You should not state where you want to be buried or cremated in your will but, by all means, detail the ceremony in your ‘letter of wishes’. This is because if you state where you want to be buried/ cremated, you are declaring that you want to return to that place. And this could affect your taxes.

Trusts and life insurance

Richard Burton, the actor, had been living in Switzerland for over 23 years when he died but when his will was opened, he’d stated that he wanted to be buried back in Wales, UK, even with the flag. This told HMRC that his intent was to return to the UK, so it charged his estate GBP2.8 million

Note too that although your country of choice may not be liable for death taxes now, these may be introduced in the future as tax regimes are tightening around the world.

If you want your estate distributed in a certain way – say income rather than chunks of money – you need to set up a trust, which details how your estate is distributed as well as to whom. If you are concerned with how your minor children receive funds, trusts allow you to direct information to your trustees.

Note that trusts outweigh your will, as they do not have to go to court (probate) and can be instantly given out to beneficiaries.

Trusts are also exceptional documents for mitigating taxes in many

MONEY MATTERS

ns Frequently asked questio • As a French resident, you cannot hold a trust in addition to your will.

What is the alternative?

• Many children have a USA passport and one other. Will they be liable for US taxes when they start work, even if they have never lived there?

• Does holding a UK passport mean that you are liable for IHT? • Most of Europe charges a global tax when you become resident. How do you mitigate the wealth that you have accumulated offshore?

Cross-border planning puts you one step ahead of the Inland Revenue

situations. The British (UK domicile) are liable for IHT on their estates for anything over GBP325,000 at 40%. If the Brit is married to another Brit, this allowance increases to GBP650,000, as they both have the Nil Rate Band (NRB.) The NRB will stay the same until 2018, which means that if the value of your estate increases in the next three years, you will have more to worry about, not less.

For example, if your estate is worth GBP1 million (including home, life insurance and assets) then the IHT for your children would be GBP140,000 (GBP1 million – GBP650,000 x 40% = GBP140,000). This would have to be paid to HMRC through some means.

Using trusts to avoid some or all of the IHT is completely transparent when set up. Planning is required but this doesn’t have to be complex.

• Are your assets, on return to your home country, taxable, either where you have left them, where you have moved to, or both?

Note too that any life insurance you hold should not be in your own name.

What is the point? This money is to be paid to your loved ones in the event of your demise, so you don’t need to own it. In some parts of the world, owning your own life insurance can cause a taxable event.

Again, the UK has IHT, so if you have your own life insurance it is paid into your estate when you die.

HMRC will add up the value of your estate including life insurances.

You should, therefore, have it made

payable to your beneficiaries via a trust, or change the policyholder (if possible) to your beneficiaries. The money is then paid to them when you die, so it not calculated as part of your estate. Many people make the mistake of taking out life insurance on themselves and adding to the very problem they were trying to avoid.

Why accumulate wealth to have the Inland Revenue, wherever they are, collect it in taxes? Why not get yourself some good advice on crossborder planning, instead?

Annette M. Houlihan, an 18-year DB resident, is managing director of Central-based financial advisory firm Carey, Suen & Associates. You can contact her at annette@careysuen.com for a no-obligation discussion, or call her on 2388 2331.

Find more monetary advice

@ www.arounddb.com

May 2015

55

ESCAPES

THE WAY

Photos courtesy of www.flexitreks.com

The 1,000-year-old Camino de Santiago pilgrimage is more than just a long walk across northern Spain, says Peter Sherwood.

From camaraderie to enlightenment, it offers refreshing insights on how little it takes to be content

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walking could be covered by car in an hour and a half. Groups and individuals hike as if in a bubble, extraordinarily happy to be encapsulated beyond that mechanised, modern universe – and with each other.

and poor, trod the perilous path to Santiago de Compostela to pray at the tomb of St James, where the pilgrim mass and certificate of pilgrimage ensured they would spend less time in purgatory.

The Camino proves that life truly is about the journey. A week of hard

Officially designated The Camino Francés and, as a World Heritage site The Way of St James, the Camino is the major pilgrimage route across northern Spain. During the Middle Ages, it was responsible for the largest movement of human beings in Europe. Millions of people, both rich

Originally a 10th century journey, it remains for many a religious epic.

The scallop shell, often found on the shores in Galicia in northwest Spain, has long been the symbol of the Camino and most pilgrims today carry one around their neck, or on their backpack.

he 800-kilometre Camino de Santiago pilgrimage from St Jean Pied de Port to Santiago de Compostela takes about a month. I first walked the trail a decade ago on an extended version of this historical track – a total of 1,600 kilometres from Massif Central in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. I’ve been fortunate to return many times to wander some of the less travelled paths.

May 2015

ESCAPES

On the pilgrim way: iron sculpture at windy Alto de Perdŏn just beyond Pamplona, Spain

The secret of the Camino Many experience the journey as one of the most enriching times of their life; it certainly has been for me.

Glorious scenery aside, the so-called ‘secret of the Camino’ seems as much bound in myth and new-age hocuspocus as the trail’s origins. What really drives the persisting spirituality of the walk and why it can be powerfully transformative, became clear to me only months later.

While for many it remains a pilgrimage

and for others a long walk through history, over a period of weeks walking together and staying in dormitory refuges, people can become generously introspective, sharing their innermost thoughts and feelings.

Around friends and family, we can keep everything locked up – our ‘deep, dark secrets’ are deep and dark simply because we don’t expose them. With strangers, we feel free to spit it all out in the knowledge that we will probably never meet again. In this way, the trail can be therapeutic… and then

there is the problem of shared pain.

Most walkers suffer sore feet, aching knees and painful blisters, which often require help to apply dressings, also drawing people closer.

People help and befriend each other, bonds are established, and a gradual awakening begins: I have no need for any mechanised transport; I am moving slowly with the seasons; I have a change of clothes, some new friends – and I’m not certain if I have a bed for the night. I have no bills to pay and no job to worry about. I have taken time   May 2015

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out to be with myself in a unique way – and I feel wonderful.

To Santiago – the long way I recommend starting in France at St Jean Pied de Port in the foothills of the Pyrénées, traditionally an important point on the Camino where other routes meet. Route Francés is the main Camino de Santiago route, but it is not the only one.

No getting lost: just follow the scallop shell symbols

The Le Puy Route starts in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Le Puy en Velay and joins the main route at St Jean Pied de Port. It’s a beautiful and varied trail through some of the most delightful towns and countryside in France and on to the stunning Pyrénées.

The Arles Way was traditionally used by people from Italy and the South of France. The traditional starting point is Arles in Provence.

The Vézelay Route is one of the four major historical routes to Santiago de Compostela. It runs southwest from the beautiful village of Vézelay in Burgundy, famous for its shrine of Mary Magdalene. It joins either Route Francés at St Jean Pied de Port, or the North Coast Route in Spain.

Pilgrim statue at O Cebreiro, Spain, 1,300 metres

Chemin de Piémont is an interesting French route along Canal du Midi and through the foothills of the Pyrénées, from Narbonne to St Jean Pied de Port and beyond.

The North Coast Route takes in some stunning, Spanish ‘green coast’, although about 60% of it is now on busy roads.

Route Primitivo is a 10-day trail beginning at Oviedo in Spain, then winding its way through the Cantabrian Mountains. Life and landscapes don’t get much better than the Principality of Asturias.

The practicalities You’ll need a ‘credential’, a passport stamped at every refuge for

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Walking with different people, making new friends, is a feature of the Camino

presentation to the church office in Santiago de Compostela. You can get one either online, or at almost every important village in the Camino, which means that you can choose your starting point.

Don’t carry much. Limit yourself to a change of drip-dry clothes, a firstaid kit, a good pair of boots, walking trousers and shorts. (My towel is A4 size.) If your backpack weighs more

A 17th century refuge at Roncesvalles in the Pyrénées

than about 8 kilogrammes without food and water, you’re overloaded.

Most walkers eat on the trail except for dinner when they get together in large groups. Every town and village along the way offers a pilgrim’s menu of three courses with plenty of wine for around 10 euros – a bargain. After dinner, the special midnight services in cathedrals and chapels can be very moving, even for non-believers. 

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ESCAPES Make the most of the cheap dormitory accommodation en route. These can be anything from town halls or school gyms, to monasteries and convents – and a night’s stay costs a few euros.

Bring ear plugs (seriously) as the snoring can be horrendous.

To maximise the experience, do not stay in fancy hotels and isolate yourself, or look at your smartphone all day. Do not join an organised Camino tour for a short distance, and with a car carrying your pack. Do not take transport, or fail to walk with strangers.

Before you set out, watch The Way, a 2010 movie starring Martin Sheen and directed by his son Emilio Estevez.

Shot on location in France and Spain, it captures the spirit of the Camino.

Estevez called it “pro-people, pro-life, not anti-anything”. Pretty much like the Camino.

Traditional routes converge on the main trail across Spain, Camino Francés

Find out more • For detailed information on all the Camino routes, visit www.csj.org.uk • Camino community chat site, www.caminodesantiago.me

Find more exciting travel destinations

@ www.arounddb.com

LIFESTYLE

ROOM WITH A Photos courtesy of Aloha Outdoor Living, Blume Living, Everything Under The Sun, Indigo Living and Jane Clyde

VIEW

Gorgeously decorated outdoor rooms are hot for summer 2015, says Jane Clyde. And whatever their size, they need to be easy, breezy and natural looking but strong enough to withstand the elements May 2015

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LIFESTYLE

table in Cane-line, On The Move side

powder-coated aluminium, Everything Under The Sun

Baleares daybed in high-density, polyethylene wicker, Aloha Outdoor Living

Dresden club chair set, with

synthetic wood slats and quick-dry cushions, Blume Living

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May 2015

Living ght, sustainable bamboo, Indigo Round, white lanterns, in light-wei

LIFESTYLE

T

ime was, outdoor furnishings consisted of a few inexpensive folding chairs placed around a flimsy plastic table. Our balconies, terraces and patios weren’t so much designed as thrown together, and as a result, even though we enjoy a subtropical climate, we didn’t get that much use out of them.

Creating a separate, fully furnished room outdoors is a large undertaking even in a small space, but the rewards are worth the time, effort, and money spent. With a little thought, you can create an attractive and fully functional retreat that you can use for entertaining, cooking, or relaxing, whatever you want.

Getting the right look can be tricky: You don’t want it to seem like you dragged an old living room sofa outside, dashed into Horizon Plaza for a shiny new barbecue grill and some chic standing lamps, and declared the job done.

So start small, with a few pieces that are essential to you – anything from deckchairs to pizza ovens – and then add interest and personality with wellchosen decorative items, like plants and wind chimes. The space will soon start to feel like an extension of your home.

Note that the best outdoor rooms are natural looking, fluid and convenient to use. While dedicated dining areas remain popular outdoors, there’s also a trend towards chat-and-chill configurations of furniture. Indoorstyle seating includes comfy lounge chairs and sectional pieces that can be grouped or separated, with side tables that can also be used for casual dining.

Watch out for the all-new, portable fire pits, bars and coffee tables.

Ottomans, furniture pieces, usually used for seating, that don’t have a back or obvious legs, are particularly fashionable this year. Traditionally round or square, they now come in just about any size and shape you desire. They are built for comfort and style, and can be paired

with a table, or left to stand on their own as a relaxed seating option.

of every type, are resistant to water, resistant to sunlight and easy to clean.

Material matters

The trick here is to read the labels.

Aluminium frames are always a good bet but make sure they have a (polyester) powder coating.

For fabrics, opt for task-specific, weatherproof weaves, and go with quick-dry foam seat cushions that can be left out in the rain.

You’ll want your outdoor furniture to be both versatile and practical, durable and low maintenance, so limit your choice to pieces that have been purpose-built to withstand the elements. Today’s outdoor chairs might be wrought iron or wrought aluminium, with upholstered seats.

The table might be stone or wood, or an elegant faux version of either, and it would not look out of place indoors.

Getting the right look can be tricky: You don’t want it to seem like you dragged an old living room sofa outside, dashed into Horizon Plaza for a shiny new barbecue grill and some chic standing lamps, and declared the job done Wood, preferably recycled, always looks great outdoors, but note that it needs to be specially treated in order to be weather resistant. Teak is a perennially popular choice, as is superstrong and sustainable bamboo.

Happily, some of the synthetic woods now look almost as good as the real thing, as does high-density, polyethylene wicker. Likewise, the latest wood- or leather-look resins, used to make outdoor furnishings

Colour commentary With natural hues likely forming the basis of your furnishings, you’ll want to introduce a little colour in the accents, like upholstery, cushions and lamps. Here there are no rules but neutrals – sand, mocha, charcoal and cream – stay strong for 2015. For a bolder effect, look to the more vibrant natural colours, like leaf green, harebell blue, rose or aubergine.

Navy paired with crisp white is a classic choice, both nautical and preppy, but this year, dark blue is also being combined with apple red and sunshine yellow. Consider putting the brighter hues on the furniture pieces – a wicker chair, perhaps – and the blue on accent pieces. Varying shades of pink are also popular in 2015; deep indigo looks fresh and new, as does coral. Consider that colourful flowering plants can add cut-price pops of colour and a seasonal facelift to any outdoor setting.

Mixing textures, materials, colours, or even design styles leads to a lively looking outdoor living space, just as it does within the home. This eclectic trend is likely to expand in 2015. So why not give global style a whirl? Look for Moroccan influences in lanterns, Mediterranean motifs in textiles, and Asian accents everywhere.

Find it • Aloha Outdoor Living, www.aloha-outdoor.com • Blume Living, www.blume-living.com • Everything Under The Sun, www.everythingunderthesun.com.hk • Indigo Living, www.indigo-living.com

Find more on stylish living

@ www.arounddb.com

May 2015

67

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HARBOURFRONT FEAST Central Harbourfront, Central

Thirteen chefs, representing some of Hong Kong’s most popular eateries, are set to serve up a delicious harbour-side feast during Dine & Design 2015, May 1 to 3. This spotlight event, starting at 1pm, sees each chef cook or prepare one dish at their individual station in the marquee area, and guests enjoy the food buffet-style.

For tickets, costing HK$680 per person (HK$320 for kids under 10), visit http://harbourfrontfeast.ticketflap.com.

SHOWSTOPPING PERFORMANCES!

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai

-10 May 6

Photo by Steve Ullathorne

The award-winning, London-based Showstoppers are performing two live, improvised shows this month: Showstopper! The Improvised Musical, running from May 6 to 10, and The Fantastical Story Factory, especially for kids, May 9 to 10. You can purchase tickets for both shows, starting at HK$195, from www.hkticketing.com.

2 May

ALL-GIRLS WHISKY CLASSES Hullett House, Tsim Sha Tsui

14, May 7,28 21 & Ladies can get clued up about the world of whisky by attending a Ladies Who Whisky class in Hullett House. Courses on offer include Whisky and Oysters, Whisky and Fashion, and Whisky and Flowers. All classes start at 7pm and prices range from HK$350 to HK$500. To find out more or to sign up, call 3988 0104, or visit www.hulletthouse. com/ladies-who-whisky.

Action Asia CHALLENGE Start: Tai Lam Country Park, New Territories Enrol now to take part in the Otterbox Action Asia Challenge, starting at 7am.

Solo participants can sign up for the 15-kilometre trail run, while teams of two can tackle the 12-kilometre combined kayak and run. For those up for the challenge, the full 30-plus-kilometre adventure sees teams of two trail run, mountain bike, abseil and ocean kayak. Entry for solo participants costs HK$230, or HK$700 for teams of two.

For more information, visit www.actionasiaevents.com.

May 10

THE SOUND OF MUSIC

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai

une May 15-J

21

Photo courtesy of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions

THE SOUND OF MUSIC, harking from London’s West End, is the ultimate feel-good musical. You can sing along to musical classics like My Favourite Things in the true story of Maria, the fun-loving governess who changes the lives of the widowed Captain von Trapp and his seven children by re-introducing them to music. For tickets, starting at HK$395, visit www.hkticketing.com, or call 31 288 288.

www.actionasiaevents.com

 May 2015

69

HK HAPPENINGS

HK HAPPENINGS

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders

www.affordableartfair.com/hongkong

AFFORDABLE ART FAIR

May 22-24

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai Following a record attendance of 29,000 visitors in 2014, the Hong Kong Affordable Art Fair is back with more than 1,000 internationally sourced artworks. Prices start at HK$1,000! To find out more, visit www.affordableartfair.com/hongkong; to purchase tickets, costing HK$150, go to www.hkticketing.com.

Cheung Chau

1 9-3 2 y Ma Photo courtesy of ABA Productions

The Incredible BOOK EATING BOY! Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai

2-26 May 2

en.wikipedia.org

THE SAINT Elgin Street, SoHo

Kids age three to eight will be thrilled by the Australian stage adaptation of Oliver Jeffers’ bestselling picture book The Incredible Book Eating Boy. A cast of three use song, movement and puppetry to tell the story of Henry, who loves to eat books. For tickets, starting at HK$195, visit www.hkticketing.com, or call 31 288 288.

ened!

Just op

For great home-cooked British food, try The Saint which opened in SoHo in March. Offering a fresh take on the traditional gastro pub, you can enjoy hearty mains like beef pie and Lincolnshire sausages, followed by classic desserts like Toffee Banoffee, or Grandma’s Apple Pie. To add to the draw, The Saint stocks 17 different gins from around the world. Visit www.thesaint.com.hk, or call 2522 2646 to make a booking.

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May 2015

June 30 h g u o r h T Various locations across Hong Kong Le French May Arts Festival is back for the 23rd time, offering more than 120 exciting cultural programmes, including films, exhibitions, performances and gastronomy. Here are four top events:

Cheung Chau BUN FESTIVAL The wonderfully wacky Bun Festival brings some 70,000 visitors to Cheung Chau each year. You can expect parades, Taoist ceremonies, effigy burning, Chinese opera, martial arts and lion dancing. The festival culminates in a bun scrambling competition, which takes place at midnight on May 25. Find out more at www.cheungchau.org.

LE FRENCH MAY!

Photo courtesy of Eclipse Hospitality Group

1. Paris My Dream, May 1 to 31, Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui.

Appreciate the City of Lights through the eyes of French photographer Michel Eisenlohr.

2. Innovative Pianist – David Greilsammer, May 4, Hong Kong City Hall, Central. Witness a unique musical conversation between Baroque and contemporary composers.

3. French Day, May 20, Happy Valley Racecourse. As well as the races, enjoy some fabulous French arts performances, plus delicious French wine and food.

4. Paul Meyer & Hong Kong Sinfonietta, May 23, Hong Kong City Hall, Central. Hear works by Ravel, Nielsen, Debussy and Sibelius.

For online bookings, visit www.urbtix.hk; for more information, visit www.frenchmay.com.

www.wikimedia.org

FINANCIAL PLANNING ASK THE EXPERT HELLO RESIDENTS OF DB, LANTAU AND THE REST OF HONG KONG! It’s time to consult THE EXPERT about your financial planning!

Who am I? KayeKaye Khemlani (PIBA No. 0032-009006), a native English-speaking insurance advisor, with a strong presence in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong.

My thoughts I understand we all go through different stages of life and so do our insurance needs. But the mandatory insurances required by the Hong Kong Government (including domestichelper insurance and automobile coverage), are always worth due diligence.

Your home is your castle, so why not protect it from the elements, drunk guests, clumsy kids and thieves?

A home package can do all that and more! Whether you rent or own your home, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Homeowners insurance is a security blanket. It is designed to protect you in the event of a catastrophe. Therefore, when you are choosing a policy, don’t always look to save money – the best deal may cost you more in the long run.

But be sure to shop around. When you receive your annual renewal statement, check to see if you can snag a better deal elsewhere.

Consider whether you have too much coverage. It’s common for policies to contain inflation-protection provisions that automatically increase your coverage amount. You may want to adjust your coverage amount to a more realistic figure.

My offer: I can do a comparison shop for you free of charge, to ensure that you have made the right choice, and check that you have the right product at the right price.

DB FACES

COMMUNITY SNAPS!

Email your photos for DB Faces to info@baymedia.com.hk. Around DB accepts no liability for the photos sent

Who do you know? Find more familiar faces @ www.arounddb.com.

COMPETITION

www.evoqueportraits.com

Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar!

A

B

Y

C

Congratulations to last month’s winner Rhona Hanson!

Please contact our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.

our challenge this month is to identify which of the photos above is the exact copy of a photograph featured elsewhere in this issue of Around DB. You need to list the page number the photo appears on, as well as which of the three photos is the exact copy. You can contact us via the competitions link at www.arounddb.com, by clicking on one of the QR Codes, or by emailing info@baymedia.com.hk by May 10. This is your chance to win a complimentary coffee from Uncle Russ, or a beer from The Pier Bar every day for a week. Don’t forget to include your name and telephone number with your answer. Good luck!

Do it with the right barbecue!

View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com

WORSHIP SERVICE

HOME & REPAIRS

Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME & RDB TEENS

SINCE 1997

OUR SERVICES DOG & CAT GROOMING ( BY APPOINTMENT ) PET FOOD & ACCESSORIES SUPPLIES CAT SITTING SERVICE FREE DAILY DELIVERY

Pastor James Buckner Tel: 2987 7061 www.dbicc.org

Ground floor 11B, Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay (next to Island Vet) Tel: 2987 0428 / Fax : 2914 1313 / E-mail : petsgallerydb@yahoo.com.hk Open from 9:00 am till 7:30 pm (Mon - Sun)

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com COMMUNITY

FINANCE & INSURANCE

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS (MORMONS)

AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS

Sunday 1pm.

4/F Discovery College.

Visitors welcome. Call 9029 1251

EMPLOYMENT

Need to lodge your Australian tax return? If you are an expat or collect rental from Australian property, you must lodge an annual return. Let us do it for you here in HK. Contact Dwight Stuchbery, Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, dwight@smats.net, or visit www.smats.net

HOME SERVICES

PETS

EXPERT MOVER

THE PLACE WHERE THE PETS GO - PETCODB

• Mover • Storage • Handyman Competitive rates.

Professional quality service.

Contact 2566 4799, sales@expertmover.hk.

Visit www.expertmover.hk

Grooming & Pet Care Services.

Trust us to provide loving & safe care for the ones you love!

Contact 2914 0382, info@petcodb.com.

Visit www.petcodb.com

DOG SERVICES

HEALTH & WELLBEING THE BEACH HOUSE

We are now looking for the following staff for new modern Western beach café & bar opening in Cheung Sha in June.

• Head chef – specialising in modern Western nutrition & health cuisine, including gluten free cooking, low sugar & low sodium.

Must have working knowledge of food allergies & intolerances • Assistant manager – must speak Cantonese & English • Bartenders – must speak Cantonese & English • Chefs – must speak Cantonese & English Five-day week, medical benefits & good working environment.

Please email your CV & references to info@thebeachhousehk.com

HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY

Quit smoking quickly.

Divorce/ Post-Divorce Coaching.

Resolve: • Fear of Flying/ Public Speaking • Overeating • Couples’ Conflicts • Career & Command-Training Stress • Anger Management • Phobias • Nail Biting • Insomnia • Exam Jitters Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk

KIDS

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play.

Activities to stimulate all areas of development.

Come & look at our facilities.

Classes for kids from 20 months to 4 years.

Morning & afternoon sessions.

Call 9511 2107, or visit www.earlyadventures.net

Looking for a place to stay?

www.arounddb.com

Home boarding, behaviour modification, Tui Na Massage & grooming. Reliable & honest.

100% safety record over the past 11 years.

Contact Dave Chan on 9872 5439, www.quoquoclub.com

RETAIL ABBELIO WINES

Great value! High scoring! Wines from around the world!

Free delivery & special offer for Discovery Bay residents.

For details, visit http://abw.hk/db, or call 3170 8458

DB MARINA CLUB DEBENTURES

Do you have a C Class or B Class Debenture you are not using?

Or one that is expiring, or coming up for extension?

Lifestyle Homes has interested buyers. To find out more, contact info@lifestylehomes.com.hk

DB-BASED REALTOR SEEKS EAA-LICENSED AGENTS Must have a good command of spoken & written English & Cantonese, an extra language is an advantage.

Strong communication & interpersonal skills, mature outgoing personality, proactive, hardworking & detail oriented.

Attractive remuneration package for the right candidates.

Email your full CV to info@lifestylehomes.com.hk

PRIMARY SCHOOL SEEKS ADMIN ASSISTANT

(Full Time) Excellent command of English &/or Cantonese required.

Job location: Discovery Bay. Mature, hardworking & detail-oriented.

Good PC skills & MS office application.

Interested parties please email your full CV to: hr@dmk.edu.hk

Looking for a business?

www.arounddb.com

HOUSE RENOVATIONS & PAINTING BY UNITEK HK All works undertaken by UK Tradesmen including electrics, plumbing, tiling, carpentry and many more!

www.unitekhk.com Tel: 2984 9381 / 9491 2605 May 2015

75

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com

Alcoholics Anonymous If you want to drink, that’s your business.

If you want to stop, we can help.

No dues or fees.

24 hour hotline: 9073 6922 Lantau hotline: 5668 2667 www.aa-hk.org

76

May 2015

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com SERVICES ACCOUNTING & COMPANY SERVICES

Prepare management accounts, weekly, monthly or yearly.

Whatsapp 9673 7730.

Email et@ponyservices.com

NOTARY SERVICES

Now available in DB at affordable rates. For enquiries, 9143 0799, notary@hpi.com.hk

TRAVEL www.sooqcentral.com

CONCORdE TRAVEL

Leisure Travel & Cruise specialists since 1978.

Call 2526 3391, or visit www.concorde-travel.com.

Licence No 350343

Birth & Postnatal Support Antenatal Classes Breastfeeding support Placenta remedies

TUITION & COURSES

DOULA

Mypetshop in the North Plaza.

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

Importing all natural, handmade products from small British producers

•Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents • Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients • English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Russian, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counsellors

www.resourcecounselling.org Serving the community over 40 years A Member Agency of the Community Chest

2168

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Ema

BLA

GMT FOODS Tel: +852 6647 2292 email: gillian@gmtfoodshk.com www.gmtfoodshk.com www.facebook.com/gmtfoods twitter@gillian_GMT

est. 2009

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oo.c

: 6926ofit168@yah TEL

G O XasI BNoxfit B T - O U nown

C K Formerly k

- Japan qualified – skilled piano technician in DB We can offer professional advice and services on all piano matters;

FULLY QUALIFIEd SCIENCE TEACHER

With Honours Bachelors Degree.

Offering tutoring for KS3 & IGCSE Science (all disciplines) & IB/A’ Levels Physics.

Contact 6079 2052, mr.m.walker@yahoo.com.uk

Shop G09-92 Siena Ave. DB North Plaza Tel: 2987 8873 Open Daily 10am – 7:30pm

6496 4318 | jeanne@doulabirthstory.com | www.doulabirthstory.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, graciasx@hotmail.com

Tiger and Bunny want you to Hike on down to

© Cyril Almeras

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.)

For enquiries please contact Mr Erik R. at rerikm@hotmail.com, or call 9666 9511

Jeanne Hauguel

Trust in yourself when it matters...

LEARN SPANISH

info@sooqcentral.com

Creating a good sound to make harmony with your heart!

Sunday, Monday & Wednesday at Movement Improvement.

Learn precise boxing techniques to strengthen and condition your body.

One of the keys to piano maintenance is - How to keep your piano in good condition with a subtropical climate -

Deadline for June issue CLASSIFIEDS

May 10

www.88keys.com.hk E-mail: info@88keys.com.hk Tel : 9687 0726

May 2015

77

Find short-term rentals @ www.arounddb.com PROPERTY DB

PROPERTY DB

MODERN 1-BEDROOM FLAT

DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS

Spacious open layout. Quiet, high floor.

Fully equipped kitchen. Shower. Washer/ dryer.

English movies & news, & wi-fi. Just unpack!

Competitively priced. Contact 6680 2007, greenmountain123@gmail.com

Fully furnished 1-2-bed apartments with beautiful decor, wi-fi & broadband. Well-equipped kitchen, luxurious bedding, weekly cleaning service.

Contact Annie on 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com

CHERISH COURT 2-BED APARTMENT At Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished.

Call 9108 5525

Fully furnished, 2-bedroom flat with wi-fi & Now TV. Full sea view & Disneyland-firework view. Photos available.

Contact Jacqueline 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

COSY NEW 1 BEDROOM NEW 1-BED APARTMENT Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment in Greendale Court. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525

Cosy & brand-new 1-bedroom flat with sea view, convenient location, fully furnished with bed linen, kitchenware, washer/ drier & English & Chinese TV channels. Free cleaning once every 3 days upon request. Minimum stay 3 nights. Contact Mary on 9726 6219, marydbay@gmail.com

PROPERTY OVERSEAS SERVICED APARTMENTS SIENA 2 Quiet with sea views, near Club Siena & tunnel.

Fully furnished, with bed linen & kitchenware.

55” TVs, wi-fi, Blu-ray home theatre, washer/ drier. Short or long lease. Contact 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com

FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view.

Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

LAGUNA BEACH, CALIFORNIA Stunning cliff-top 2-bedroom beach cottage offering uninterrupted 180 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, yet a 5-minute walk to Laguna beach. For more information, call 9732 2544 or email garry@saffron-marina.com

53’ SAILING YACHT LANGKAWI, THAILAND Stunning 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom sailing yacht in Marina for overnight stay or private charter around Southern Thailand. For more details, call 9732 2544 or email garry@saffron-marina.com

LUXURY 2-BED Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony.

Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Charles on 6140 7971, charles@headlandhomes.hk. Contact Katie on 9150 7319, katie@headlandhomes.hk

SLEEPS 4 Bright, fully furnished flat, sleeps 4. Fully equipped kitchen, plus wi-fi & broadband.

Towels & linens provided. Minimum stay 1 month. Email dbstay4@yahoo.com

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May 2015

AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY Everything you need to know about buying a property in Australia. Information on property markets, taxation, finance, migration & legal.

Free online at www.aussieproperty.com

PHUKET VILLA SHORT-TERM RENT Deluxe, spacious 4-bedroom villa, with ensuite bathrooms & private pool.

Wireless internet access, sala, bar & BBQ area.

Fully equipped kitchen with laundry area.

Close to Laguna. Contact Roenel on 9050 4772, atsea@netvigator.com

Greenland Pest Control Tailored Pest Control Solutions for Rodent, Cockroaches, Fleas, Mosquitoes, Termites, Ants, Ticks etc…

For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or May 9774 3554 Email: greenlandpest@outlook.com

GIVING LIFE SHOULDN’T BE SO DEADLY Ramatoulaye, who lives in Burkina Faso, was about to give birth to her fourth child, but the boatman was nowhere to be found. Unable to get to the health centre across the river, she gave birth alone on the river banks.

Maternal health is a human right — join Amnesty International to defend human rights for women like Ramatoulaye.

Learn more at www.amnesty.org.hk.

© Anna Kari

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com TUNG CHUNG

SOUTH LANTAU

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel Shoesee Foldable

FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

2428 2566 5502 6128 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

Airport Izakaya Andante Bistro Delifrance Café Aficionado Chef’s Choice China Coast Bar & Grill Deli Viet Erawan Essence Federal Palace Restaurant Mansarover Indian Cuisine McDonald’s Delivery Moccato Olea Pizza Hut Regala Café & Dessert Bar Rouge Skycity Bistro Spaghetti House Starz Wine Bar Zentro Garden

2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4187 2286 6238 6504 4208 2286 6898 2109 0036 3760 6633 3602 8808 2626 0181 2109 1927 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 3180 0000 2286 6618 2286 6868 3969 1888 2109 1297 2109 0612 2802 8000 HEALTH & WELLBEING

Asian Hairdressers Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre Island Veterinary Services Ltd Tung Chung Vet Centre Tung Chung Maternal & Child Health Centre Quality Health Dental Quality Health Medical Raffles Medical

3147 4088 2185 6550 2109 9396 2109 2288 2988 1534 2328 7282 2109 6800 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488 HOTELS

Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel Novotel Citygate Hong Kong Regal Airport Hotel

3969 1888 3602 8888 2286 8888

LEARNING CENTRES

Clement Art School Discovery Mind International Play Centre Greenfield International Kindergarten Kidznjoy Kindermusik Sakura Kids Salala Kids House Soundwaves English Education Centre Sun Island Education Foundation Sunshine House International Preschool The Story Studio Tung Chung Catholic School (Yat Tung) YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College

9021 1502 2987 8070 2162 5538 6273 7347 6976 8867 6674 6194 2611 9193 2164 7210 2420 1068 2109 3873 6341 3989 2109 4962 2988 8123

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

9 Dragons Fitness Asia Pacific Soccer Schools Caribbean Coast Club House Coastal Skyline Club House Dance for Joy Edge’n Pointe Dance Centre Jumping Castles Perun Fitness Seaview Crescent Club House Smash Cricket Socatots Tung Chung Crescent Club House

2786 9699 2385 9677 2109 9277 2179 6678 9264 8597 6688 2167 9662 1747 6443 6597 3473 8700 5400 4109 2385 9677 2403 6770

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

Tung Chung Ambulance Depot Tung Chung Fire Station Tung Chung Police Station

LANTAU NUMBERS

2988 8282 2988 1809 3661 1694

Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bombay Café Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear Como Lake Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar High Tide Restaurant La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Maverick’s Restaurant, Pui O Tak Chai Kee Seafood Taco Loco The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep

2984 0222 2984 1847 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 5465 5511 5402 4154 2984 1265 9022 5737 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2980 2699

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Dalcroze Impact Fitness Jill Marshall Pilates South Lantau Paddle Club Tony’s Salon Treasure Island

6627 4806 6385 0304 9708 0187 6770 1462 2984 0990 2546 3543 HOME & REPAIRS

Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering New Look Design Unitek

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 9783 5840 2984 9381 HOTELS

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES

Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Lao Shi Lantau Mandarin lessons Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten The Story Studio

2984 0302 2980 3676 5197 4647 3689 6709 2984 0006 6341 3989

PROPERTY AGENCIES

Findley Leung Real Estate Home Solutions Real Estate Proper Trip Real Estate

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Friendly Bike Shop Lantau Base Camp Quay House Red Hall Chinese Antiques The Red Lantern ZenvarA

2134 1234 2984 2278 5463 6060 2882 8710 2988 1368 2984 0099 9586 3459 SERVICES & OTHERS

Jumping Castles SPCA Phoenix Wills Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio)

9662 1747 2984 0060 3100 0101 9025 3949 3114 0030 6351 8923 TRANSPORTATION

Lee Hing Loong Hon Kee Transportation Company Lantau Tours New Lantau Bus Company

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

DB NUMBERS

LEARNING CENTRES

COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza Beautiful Gate BMSE, North Plaza Catholic Church (Trinity Chapel) DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Health Cares Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI) North Plaza Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza

2987 0855 2323 0738 2259 3422 2988 1515 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 2666 6183 2834 7276 2537 1087 2987 7575 2987 9003 9029 1251 2259 3422

Island Dance A dance school offering ISTD Freestyle, Hip Hop & Tap & RAD Ballet classes from Monday to Saturday at DBRC & Club Siena. All ages welcome.

2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk

A fun place for little ones to play and have loads of fun, fun, fun!

9327 0507 littleexplorers@team-fear.com

2812 2660 2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098

7-Eleven Convenience Store Fusion by PARKnSHOP Just Green Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome, North Plaza

2987 4401 2987 7486 2448 1180 2987 4089 2947 9092

Playgroup run by Montessori-trained teacher. From 6 months to 4 years. 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com

2233 3000 2682 1210 2987 1851

International Canadian Law Firm in DB North Plaza offering you customised legal services on the many aspects of your personal and professional life 2116 1333 www.harveylawcorporation.com

Grooming & Pet Services With Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love 2914 0382 info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com Amity Shoes Care Gillian florist, North Plaza Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

FINANCIAL SERVICES HSBC Travelex Money Exchange, North Plaza Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd

The Best Travel Agency in DB 2987 2626 cas@appletravel.com

PetcoDB

Playtime Kids DB

DAILY NECESSITIES

Apple Travel

Harvey Law Group

Little Explorers

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES BtoKidz, North Plaza In Style Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic Start-rite

OTHER SERVICES

Previously Midget Gems Kids Club www.positivestepsplaygroup.com positivestepsplaygroup@gmail.com

5369 2329 2529 8256 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS

HOME Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre May’s furniture & curtain design Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Tactful Design & Build Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre

2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 0061 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2987 0222 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2886 8555 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428

Let us take the stress out of homework Homework Club and Private Tutoring, conveniently located. 9522 3297 info@wiseowl.com.hk www.wiseowl.com.hk

Woodentots is a Montessori playgroup providing a caring and nurturing environment in the Plaza. Run by a qualified Montessori teacher for children aged 2 1/2 - 5 years.

6108 9131 woodentotsdb@gmail.com

LEARNING CENTRES

Musical Drama – Acting – Musical Theatre Tues & Wed classes at Discovery College 4 to 12 yrs - 2 fully costumed performances a year 8122 9475 admin@actingantics.com www.actingantics.com

Brightsparks Playgroup Fun, safe and interactive environment for your children.

9632 4287

Dumper Trucks & Daisies A Montessori-based playgroup programme that focuses on the growth and development of the whole child.

From 16 months to 4.5 years old 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com www.dumpertrucksanddaisies.com

Future Stars Dance Academy

Dance classes based on the ISTD requirements conducted in a fun, disciplined and safe environment.

2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

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May 2015

Art is a Verb, North Plaza Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Learning Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Kumon, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza Links Parenting, North Plaza Mandarin for Munchkins, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten, North Plaza Treasure House

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AQUABLU

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% Arabica Coffee Roaster & Farm DB North Plaza 2885 1312 info@arabica.hk www.arabica.hk 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Berliner Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Chef’s Choice, North Plaza Ebeneezer’s Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay

Around DB’s June issue is coming out June 1

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Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Kiraku Tei Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery Life Café McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Nevale Kitchen, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Salt & Pepper Solera Subway Super Super The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zaks

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

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TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES

DB NUMBERS

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES China Light & Power Information Line Discovery Bay Commercial Services Discovery Bay Fire & Ambulance Discovery Bay Management

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CAISSA Chess Club HK The Club gets together at the DB North Plaza Community Center 9681 2896 contact@caissahk.com www.caissahk.com

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M Spa Provides door-to-door treatment service. Conveniently located in the Plaza. Reflexology, massage, pedicure/manicure.

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Nailed It

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UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES 24-hour Customer Service Hotline China Light & Power Emergency

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Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266

MOW | Grooming & Skin Care A unique retail & treatment space at DBN, that caters to your grooming, skin care & therapeutic requirements 2499 8826 / 6773 3103 www.mowhk.com mowhk@mowhk.com Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Body Talk Maximum Care Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch Spa Siena Strand and Science HairSPA, North Plaza

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View the business directory @ www.arounddb.com May 2015

83

OUT THERE

PLEASE BE SEATED Why are people so precious about choosing a seat on the ferry, asks Peter Sherwood. It’s half an hour to the suburbs we’re talking about here, hardly a long-distance leisure cruise

W

ith hundreds of seats on the DB ferries and no insane rush to get aboard (unlike MTR herds that make the Serengeti’s wildebeest migration look like meditation) taking the ferry is a civilised affair. Finding a seat should be the business of heading for one. Really need a window? If you haven’t seen the view by now, you need to see a therapist about that smartphone addiction.

Photo by Wai Williams

All anyone really needs for the trip is a seat, which is mandatory, and while there have been petitions to management (from me) to introduce a free stand-up bar and increase the travel time to an hour and a half, the owners seem irrationally hesitant.

To me, it would make more sense if a large group headed directly for refreshments, while the rest of us did what we always do. That is, stop and look around, not just for any old seat, but the one we always take or maybe one that looks better (than our usual one).

84

The reason a ferry is boarded slowly is due to group hesitation after

the gangplank – bow or stern, and which side looks best? Then it gets complicated because there is too much choice, and that’s one thing that drives human beings crazy.

(Recent research shows that too much choice is leaving us bewildered and depressed.)

I’m all right, Jack One thing is certain: We definitely do not want a seat in the middle of a row. Same for aircraft, which makes you wonder why they make middle seats at all. (I think they must be booby-trapped.)

On the ferry though, there are fearless people who insist on taking only the middle of three seats, while dumping all their stuff on the other two.

‘Middle seat’ people are there to let us know that if there were a first-class section, they would be in it, and to remind us that some folks’ personal

Aisle people are a bit like that. You know, the ones who make a big deal of having to get up to let you get to the window seat because to reiterate, nobody in their right mind would sit in the middle. Aisle seat folks could just as easily be window people, because what they secretly want is all three seats, and they will never under any circumstance move across to the window and let you take the aisle. Once the aisle position is taken, it stays taken in what is known in the best seating circles, as ‘mine, so crawl over me buddy’.

Personally I don’t care a hoot where I sit. But there is hell to pay if anyone beats me to a window seat at the back, where no one can yap on their phone from behind or crunch crisps in my lughole.

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 16 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and he has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

Find more from Peter May 2015

space can be expanded based on their perceived status in the ‘I’m all right, Jack’ school of philosophy.

@ www.arounddb.com