November 2012
HOW YOUR
WHY DB KIDS
MPF SAVINGS
SIMPLY ADORE
THEIR MOJO
JUNIOR CHALLENGE
THE WELLCOME
TEAM FEAR
JUST FOUND
“For Those About To Rock We Salute You.” AC/DC
PiP!
Ready!Set!
Hot musicians! Hip dancers! It’s time for Picnic in the Park! Join your community online @ www.arounddb.com
Publishers in DB since 2002
NOVEMBER 2012
蘅欣徑 CAPERIDGE 1600
3 2
Renovated duplex with modern open kitchen. Good sized balcony, great for entertaining.
觀灣樓 BAYVIEW 907
2 1
2
$28K
Fully renovated. Spacious living with stunning sea views. Tranquil location.
朝暉路 HEADLAND 1904
4
$68K
$35M
Fully renovated interior, wonderful living and dining area, large garden, great for entertaining.
尚堤 CHIANTI 965
$6.5M
畔山徑 MIDDLE LANE 1616
3
$65K
Family home with garden. Newly renovated, tranquil location.
2
康慧臺 HILLGROVE 919
3
$25K
Renovated, balcony with stunning sea views. Walking distance to DB Plaza and Pier.
2
海蜂徑 SEABEE 1642
3
$20M
High standard renovation. Modern kitchen and bathroom, terrace with full sea views.
2
寶晶閣 CRYSTAL 835
$5.1M
蔚山閣 GREENMONT 1644
4 2
Successfully combined unit, spacious living and dining. Bright and airy.
寶珊閣 CORAL COURT 727
2 1
1
$20K
Renovated, good layout, balcony with fantastic sea views.
倚濤軒 CRESTMONT 1290
3
$45K
$12.87M
Beautifully renovated, garden with stunning sea views. Spacious living & dining area, bright & airy.
海愉閣 VISTA COURT 740
$18K/4.5M
T
EN
G EA
L
SO
2 1
High floor apartment with balcony, spacious living and dining, well management.
2 1
Great space and very practical layout with stunning sea views. With tenancy.
2 1
Nicely renovated, balcony with stunning sea views. Tranquil location.
Sophie's House
$1,500
Raleigh 14" Molly & Striker
$1,499
each
2-in-1 Baby Gym
Shanghai Worrior
$550 Catalogue now instore
Matilda Rose Christmas Collection
from
$250 Honeybake Tea Set
Santa shops at...
$399
$399
Sizzlin' Kitchen
Lamaze Totem Poles
$999
$179.90
with accessories
Mini Micro 3-in-1 Scooter
$1,059 Pink or Blue
Skip Hop Owl
Power Tools Work Bench
Razor Spark Scooter
$225
$650
$699 $1,290
Pedder Building Store 5/F Pedder Building,12 Pedder Street, Central T: 2522 7112 Horizon Plaza Store 21/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau T: 2552 5000 www.bumpstobabes.com
Looking for investment opportunity? 4/F., Lee Fund Centre, No. 31 Wong Chuk Hang Road, HK E-mail: grea@grea.com.hk C-049044
South lsland Industrial & Office Sales / Lease
Developers Designated Agencies Marinella South of Island Luxury by Nature
The Photographs, images, drawings or sketches of the property shown above only represent the artist’s imaginative impression of the development concerned. They are not drawn to scale and/or may have been edited and processed with computerised imaging techniques. Prospective purchasers should make reference to the sales brochure for details of the development. The developer also advises purchasers to conduct on-site visit for a better understanding of the development site, its surrounding environment and the public facilities nearby. Wong Chuk Hang Ind. Bldg 7,266’ 40M
ole
• Whole Floor • Sea/ Mountain View Harbour Ind. Ctr. 1,050’ - 2,392’ 4M/17K
Tin Fung Mansion 1,610’ - 17,857’ @3xxx t en Ag
One Island South 5,334’/7,491’/12,825’
ole
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• High efficiency • Potential Acquisition
• Ocean Park view • At a competitive price
Aberdeen Ind. Bldg. 3,150’ - 3,800’ 9.7M up
Grand Marine Center 1,852’ ~ 3,815’ 11M up
• Water Front view • Well management Southmark 749’ - 11,439’ @4,950up nt ge eA
Wong Chuk Hang Ind. Bldg. 2,400’ - 8,000’ @4,300up
l
So
• Dream of quiet and spacious loft idea
• Convenient Location • Seldom Available
• Close to the coming MTR station • Potential property and investor’s choice
• A Grade commercial office • Swimming pool facility
9326 3293 / 6401 8889 2873 3600 Jeff
(S-130432)
Jacqueline (S-398189)
24 hours hotline
CONTENTS FEATURES 24
34
DEAR READER
58
24 28 34 41 46 50 58 62
PROFILE Meet the Pui O lady who homes dogs: Okka Scherer IN FOCUS Counselling – is it for you? FAMILY MATTERS All set for the Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge MONEY MATTERS MPF – now yours to invest as you choose TALKING POINTS Be inspired by three women who give back ESCAPES On the road in Java ACTION Cycling – 101 reasons to ride! STYLE Design tips for DB landlords
REGULARS 12 22 56 66 68 71 75 76 80
IN & AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news ACROSS LANTAU What’s happening island wide TECH TREND Our resident techie answers some FAQs HK HAPPENINGS Hot stuff from across the harbour DB FACES Candid community snaps CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, local businesses and more PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau HEALTH Q&A Prostate cancer – raising your awareness
It’s really struck me this month just how much there is to do in DB. Of course it’s Picnic in the Park on the first Saturday of the month – incredibly, now, Hong Kong’s largest live music and dance festival. Along with an expected 8,000 plus spectators I am really ready to rock out! See you there – but also at the DBRC Tennis Club Championship starting November 3, the DB 10K Charity Run November 10 and the Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge November 25. Whether fundraising, hosting get-togethers, participating in sports, or all of the above, we DBers are so incredibly active! No surprise then that the events gallery on our website is proving particularly popular. Obviously we are tracking what draws you to www.arounddb.com and it seems you love checking out all the photographic coverage of local events. After last month’s launch, the number of hits and posts to www.arounddb.com continues to increase exponentially,
beyond even our expectations, with thousands of visitors getting online. Enjoy! You can of course access archived articles of the magazine at www.arounddb.com — and this issue is definitely a keeper. We introduce you to Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge founder Steve Corbin, and Pui O based animal activist Okka Scherer. We also take you on a Javanese road trip, discuss the pros and cons of counselling, and inform you about recent changes to the MPF scheme that free you up to invest your savings as you see fit. Happy reading! And I look forward to meeting up with you online at www.arounddb.com.
November 2012
HOW YOUR
WHY DB KIDS
MPF SAVINGS
SIMPLY ADORE
THEIR MOJO
JUNIOR CHALLENGE
THE WELLCOME
TEAM FEAR
JUST FOUND
“For Those About To Rock We Salute You.” AC/DC
Putting up a united (pink) front Photos by Radhika Gidwani and Rese Hopkinson
PiP!
Ready!Set!
Hot musicians! Hip dancers! It’s time for Picnic in the Park! Join your community online @ www.arounddb.com
Publishers in DB since 2002
On the cover: Andrew Ellis from Horus Photo by Sandra Starc
Publisher
Corinne Jedwood corinne@arounddb.com Editor
Rachel Ainsley editor@arounddb.com
Congratulations to Movement Improvement on its DB Pink Campaign this year, which included the first Pink Walk for Breast Health, October 7, and the annual and eversuccessful Pink Fizz Party, October 17. The combined events were supported by just over 450 people and raised a fabulous HK$136,000 that will all go to the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation, www.hkbcf.org.
Editorial Coordinator
Dana Winograd dana@arounddb.com Advertising
Lissa Morris lissa@arounddb.com Art direction
Terry Chow cckterrychow@gmail.com Photography
Tracey van Geest tracey@inspiredimages.co Baljit & Radhika Gidwani photosdb@hotmail.com Illustration
Richard Leschinsky Accounts
Lise Dooling accountant@arounddb.com Contributors this month
Paula Lepore Burrough Andrew Dembina Karen Fairley Gordon Franks Elizabeth Kerr Dr Ray Ng Catharine Nicol Karmel Schreyer Juan Miguel Sevilla Mary Singer General enquiries
info@arounddb.com Published by
Bay Media Limited Flat 230, Block D, DB Plaza Discovery Bay, Hong Kong Tel: (852) 2987 0577 Fax: (852) 2987 0533 www.arounddb.com 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.
All-girls rugby on the beach Photos by Baljit Gidwani and Paul Christmas
It was an amazing day on Tai Pak Beach for the DB Pirates AllGirls Beach Rugby Tournament, October 7. With nine clubs participating, there were at least 350 girls playing six-a-side in the sand. The DB Pirates came away with a lot of silver as the U16 Cup winners, the U14 and U19 Plate winners and the U14 Shield winners. Well done to all who participated! Find more on DB rugby at www.dbpirates.com. Be sure to visit the www.arounddb.com (event gallery) for more photos.
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IN & AROUND DB
YRock finalists to perform at PiP Photos by Radhika Gidwani
The YRock finale held at DDeck on October 20 was an unbelievable showing of Hong Kong's (and DB's) musical youth. The performances were truly amazing (the best concert we've been to in ages!) and it’s incredible to think that more than half of the songs were self-penned. The three winners will perform on the main stage (Siena) at Picnic in the Park (PiP), and the five finalists will all be rocking on PiP's Bayside Stage. DB should be proud to know that three of the finalists are at least partially home grown: Ohad and Jessica, Deep Chile and Lauren. DB teen Phoebe Whalley will also be performing on the Bayside Stage, and we hope she chooses to perform Guardian Angel again, the song she wrote for the finale in honour of her mother.
Discovery Bay charity tennis Photo courtesy of the Heatons
From the tennis matches to the after party to the amount of money raised, the annual DBRC Charity Tennis Tournament on October 6 was a blast. One of the highlights was watching the children from Art Link perform at the after party, and having everyone join in and dance with them! Ahoy There, led by the Heaton brothers, was the winning team, but the players only triumphed over For The Kids, led by Olivia Gregory, by one game! The Best Costume Award went to Hef And The Bunnies this year. Members generously participated in the live auction, and the highest bid (HK$6,500) was made for a twonight stay at the Grand Hyatt Bangkok. A whopping HK$128,500 was raised this year - congratulations to all who participated! Be sure to visit the www.arounddb.com (event gallery) for more photos.
Lantau Classic – a splash! Photos by Baljit Gidwani
Tai Pak Beach was awash with paddlers on October 7 with the third annual Lantau Classic taking place. Five clubs from around Hong Kong joined the Lantau Island Outrigger Canoe Club (LIOCC), in this day-long event. The LIOCC teams placed well in a good number of races, and were beaten to first place by a fraction of a second in the men’s OC1 relay. The after-party at the clubhouse went on well into the night with great food, drink and DJ Joost at the helm!
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November 2012
NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER AT A GLANCE
IN & AROUND DB
WHEN
WHAT
WHERE
Nov 3, 11am-9.30pm
Picnic in the Park
Central Park
Nov 3-4, 10-11, 25-26
DBRC Tennis Club Championship
Discovery Bay Recreation Club
Nov 4, 10am-5pm
DB Backyard Bazaar
DB Plaza
Nov 6, 7pm
ACCESSDB Fundraising Dinner
22°North
Nov 7
Girls’ Night In
Curves
Nov 10
Plant and Organic Vegetable Market
Across from Haven Court
Nov 10
DB 10km Charity Run
Starting in DB Plaza
Nov 10, 12pm-5pm
DC Family Fun Day
Discovery College
Nov 11, 10am-4pm
DB Farmers’ Market
DB North Plaza
Nov 11, 7.30am-11am
Lantau Calves Triathlon
Central Park
Nov 17, 9am-11am
DMK Charity Walk
Starting at Discovery Mind Kindergarten
Nov 18, 9am-1pm
DB Green Beach Cleanup
Sam Pak Wan (North Plaza)
Nov 22, 8pm
ACCESSDB Fundraising Quiz Night
McSorley’s
Nov 24, 12pm-4pm
DBIS International Food Fair
Discovery Bay International School
Nov 25
Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge
Starting at DB North Plaza
If you organise an event, club or charity that you would like to see featured in this section, please contact dana@arounddb.com
Please visit www.arounddb.com to participate in our competitions. Simply click on the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage). You have until November 10 to submit your answers.
Free concert tickets for
LMFAO
COMPETITION
LMFAO, the American electro-pop duo behind the infectious hit single I’m Sexy And I Know It, is bringing its signature, party-rock vibe to the Asia World Arena on November 13. Formed by Redfoo and SkyBlu, the LA-based duo’s claim to fame is the 2009 album Party Rock, and a subsequent nomination for Best Dance/ Electronic Album at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards 2010. Tickets are on sale now at www.hkticketing.com, or you can call 3128 8288.
Midas Promotions is offering two concert tickets to one lucky reader who tells us at which music awards the duo was given a nomination. For your chance to win, click on the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage). Contact us by November 10.
Congratulations to last month’s winners
Action Asia racing
right here!
Action Asia’s MSIG HK50 Series continues on December 8, right here in DB! There’ll be three races: a do-able 14-kilometre run, a tough 27-kilometre race, and a totally hard core 50-kilometre stint. The series closes in Sai Kung on March 3 with 25- and 50kilometre races. For more information, check out www.actionasiaevents.com.
Gregg Palmer, Joanne Grainger and Mike Henderson for The Bootleg Beatles tickets; Casey Kiihfuss, Angel Chang and Diana Marr for Lullaby Layette vouchers; Caren Yann Ling Woo for the Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge place; Benjamin Lau, Coleen Van Ronk and Jasmine Bautista for Burn The Floor tickets; and Will Weiss and Lisa Bertamini for Renaud vouchers. Please call our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.
16
November 2012
NOVEMBER 2012
IN & AROUND DB
DMK walk for Operation
Santa Claus
It’s Discovery Mind Kindergarten’s (DMK) seventh charity walk in aid of Operation Santa Claus on November 17, starting from the kindergarten in Coastline and finishing in Siena Park. Last year around 600 children and parents took part and they raised HK$120,000. So whether you can participate in the walk or sponsor someone, do your bit to help raise money for this wonderful cause. Around DB is a proud sponsor of this event. Contact 2914 2142.
DB’s favourite All the fun of the
charity school fairs run
The DB 10km Charity Run, now in its seventh year, takes place on November 10. Last year there were 350 participants and HK$122,000 was raised. The nominated charity this year is DB’s own SOS Lanka Action – funds will be used to provide sanitation facilities for residents in a small village in Sri Lanka. Find out more at www.sos-lankaaction.org. Even if you are not a runner, you can always help by volunteering to marshal on the day. Contact Kobi and Erin at info@dbrunforcharity.org for more information on the race and how you can help. Register online at www.dbrunforcharity.org.
Great gifts from
Hip Little Bubba
COMPETITION
Hip Little Bubba is a premier online store offering hip, unique, qualitymade items for babies, toddlers and mothers. Whether you are looking for baby clothes, high chairs, cups and cutlery, formula or educational toys, you will find it all on this creative website. See for yourself at www.hiplittlebubba.com.
Hip Little Bubba is giving away one gift voucher each to two readers who can tell us where it is based. For your chance to win a voucher worth HK$700 or HK$300, click on the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage). Contact us by November 10.
Savvy shoppers will be wanting to stock up on Xmas gifts (and seasonal fun) this November! And you can make a start at the Discovery College Family Fun Day on November 10, and the Discovery Bay International Food Fair on November 24. Get down to some serious shopping, play games, have your face painted, try some arts and crafts or sit back and watch the students perform. At the Discovery College Family Fun Day, you can also catch the final cook-off of the Apron Strings Cooking School Discovery Bay Junior Master Chef Challenge (2012). Ten DB kids age nine to 14 will be wowing the judges.
A girls’ night in for
DB ladies It’s Curves’ annual Girls’ Night In on November 7, and you don’t have to be a member to attend the get together. Held at Curves in Club Siena, the entry fee is HK$100 with the proceeds going to the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation. There will be gorgeous products to buy, a silent auction with gifts donated by DB vendors, and a bake sale to help raise money for this important cause. Don't miss this fun and meaningful event. Contact Connie at Curves at 2987 0772, or curvesdb@gmail.com.
November 2012
17
NOVEMBER 2012 IN & AROUND DB
Are you growing a moustache this
HELIUM3 to surprise
Fearless kids race for Youth Outreach
Well-known DB band HELIUM3 will once again be performing in the park on November 3. The set promises to be dynamic and slick, full of new covers plus a few original songs. The band has been likened to Coldplay (due to the keyboard element) and will this year have a very cool surprise for the DB crowd! To download songs go to the HELIUM3 facebook page, or you can buy the album at iTunes or HMV. See the band in action at www.youtube.com/h3lium3.
This year’s Wellcome Junior Challenge, organised by Team Fear, is scheduled for November 25. And you can read all about it on page 34. In addition to making local kids very happy, the adventure race raises money for Youth Outreach, a local nonprofit, established in 1991 as a crisisintervention centre for youth. Initiatives include residential centres for homeless youths, all-night assistance for street kids, various educational programmes and psychological services, a 24-hour drop-in centre (which is used by about 500 kids every day) and the School of Hip Hop which uses street culture to work with young people. Go to www.youthoutreach.org.hk to get involved.
Movember? the crowd at PiP
As it is Movember, the month to raise awareness about prostate cancer and other male cancers, many of you DB men will be growing a moustache to show your support. And we would like to see it! Send us a photo of you sporting your new stache and we’ll post it on our website, www.arounddb.com. Email your picture and phone number to info@arounddb.com (subject line: movember) by November 15. For essential information about prostate cancer, turn to this month’s Health Q&A with Dr Ray Ng of Island Health (page 80).
Catch a DB chanteuse in
cabaret
COMPETITION
DB resident Tania Martin, a professional singer and singing coach, and the English-language voice for the Hong Kong Symphony of Lights, is performing in cabaret at The Fringe Club, Central on November 17. Tania will be joined by the flamboyant and multiaward winning Australian pianist Warren Wills, who is promoting his new musical Good Morning Hong Kong. Featuring musical theatre, cabaret, jazz and pop, Cabaret Sauvignon promises to be a night to remember. For information and tickets call The Fringe Club on 2521 7251 between 12 noon and 8pm, Monday to Saturday.
18
The Fringe Club is offering two free tickets (each with one complimentary drink) to the reader who can answer the following question. Who is Tania performing with at Cabaret Sauvignon? Click on the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage) for your chance to win. Contact us by November 10.
November 2012
AGEAS - Sports World
Triathlon Challenge
The Lantau Calves is hosting its annual junior triathlon, November 11. This year the race is sponsored by AGEAS and Sports World, and co-supported by MTM-Gifts, Lotus Bakeries and BFV. Kids (ages five to 12) swim, bike and run various distances depending on their age group. The joining fee this year is HK$200 which includes a HK$25 donation to ACCESSDB. Contact events@lantaubuffalos.org or check out www.lantaubuffalos.org.
NOVEMBER 2012 IN & AROUND DB
rocking DB this month
By now you’ll have your hampers and rugs ready for Picnic in the Park, Hong Kong’s largest live music and dance festival, on November 3. This year the action is spread across two stages – Siena and Bayside – from 11am to 9.30pm. A crowd of over 8,000 is expected to turn out on the day! As well as the great music and dance, there’ll be food, drink and stalls to shop. Charities supported this year are again the Hong Kong Student Aid Society (www.hksas.org.hk) and Hong Chi Association (www.hongchi.org.hk). Surely you plan to make a day of it? For updates on the performers go to the Picnic in the Park facebook page or www.picnicintheparkhk.com.
Win seats to see Beauty and the Beast
For one day only, November 25, 11.30am and 2.30pm (arrive 30 minutes early for a snack buffet), Chunky Onion Productions will present Beauty and the Beast, an interactive musical drama for children age two to 12. Don’t miss the chance to see this lively take on the well-known story of Belle and the Beast. The venue is Grappa’s Cellar in Central, and the price is HK$195 in advance and HK$220 at the door (children under two can watch for free). Book ahead by calling 2110 0014. COMPETITION
Picnic in the Park
Chunky Onion Productions is offering two lucky readers the chance to win two pairs of tickets to see Beauty and the Beast. For your chance to win, click on the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage) and tell us the name of the show’s leading lady. Contact us by November 10.
Fundraising for
Panto ticket ACCESSDB Giveaway
COMPETITION
This December, the Hong Kong Players’ seasonal extravaganza is Little Red Riding Hood – The Panto, being performed at the Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wanchai. Our cloaked heroine searches for true love, tries to avoid being eaten by the Big Bad Wolf, and gets fed up with her parents! Join the all-singing, alldancing cast in this totally festive, locally produced show. Book your tickets via the Urbtix ticketing hotline 2111 5999, or at www.urbtix.hk.
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Hong Kong Players is giving away two pairs of tickets for Little Red Riding Hood – The Panto to two readers who can tell us which visitor helps the villagers (check out www.hongkongplayers.com for the answer). For your chance to win, click on the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage). Contact us by November 10.
November 2012
More than half of the HK$1.3 million needed to purchase a fully equipped Rehabus for use by DB residents with mobility problems has already been raised. DB restaurants are also doing their bit. The Vibes played at Hemingway's on October 13, and more than HK$12,000 was raised from donations and a percentage of the bar’s takings. 22°North is hosting a dinner on November 6, McSorley’s will donate proceeds from a quiz night on November 22, and McSorley’s and iCaramba will match every HK$2 donation that guests add to their bills from November to March. Show you care by dining out this month.
Hottest & trendiest toys in town
come and view click
HOT TOYS for 2012
www.itoysclub.com 5/Fl, On Hing Building, 1 On Hing Terrace, Central Tel : 2167 8474 1913, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau Tel : 2836 0875
2101 Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau Tel : 2873 6962 Letterland, Jolly Phonics, Oxford Reading Tree and Klutz also available
ACROSS LANTAU
NOVEMBER 2012
Lantau lady facilitates
Lamma Fun
Make a date in your diaries for the twelfth annual Lamma Fun Day on November 24, organised by South Lantau resident Zein Williams, the director of the Child Welfare Scheme (CSW). Funds raised will go to CWS, a H o n g K o n g - re g i s t e re d c h a r i t y aiding the people of Nepal. There will be live music, food and drink, children’s games, beach volleyball, arts and crafts, market stalls and a charity auction. (Bid for fabulous items including a BBQ from Everything Under the Sun, and a two-night stay in a pool villa at the Phuket Pavillion.) Find out more at www.cwshk.org.
Fine photos in
Tai O
runners excel
Throughout November, 60 photos taken b y s e v e n p ro f e s s i o n a l a n d a m a t e u r photographers are being showcased in three venues in Tai O: Flanhardt Galerie und Atelier (FGUA), Espace Elastique (a lifestyle café) and a Chinese-style shop house. Irene Flanhardt, the exhibition curator, established Flanhardt Galerie und Atelier in late 2011. Not only does this exhibition support the 2012 Hong Kong International Photo Festival, the organisers hope to engage the local community in art while brightening up Tai O. Find out more at www.ireneflanhardt.hk.
Lantau was well represented at the finish line of Lantau races this past October. Jeremy Ritcey set a record (with a time of 4 hours, 4 minutes) for the 40-kilometre Sunrise race at MoonTrekker, with fellow Lantau resident Clement Dumont close on his heels. And at the 21-kilometre Lantau 2 Peaks, Jeremy came in first overall in the men’s category. Emma Bruce and Nora Senn, both DB residents, won the women’s team of two category at the Lantau 2 Peaks. DBers Emma Bruce, Karen Fairley and Scott Stanton all came second in their categories at the HK ITU Triathlon Asian Cup at Disneyland.
Hot offer from
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COMPETITION
Local
MTM Spa is offering one lucky reader a custom-blended Reishi Renewal Therapy treatment valued at HK$1,980. Simply tell us four ways this benefits the skin. For your chance to win, click on the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage). Contact us by November 10.
Celebrate at the
360 Lantau Carnival
Ngong Ping 360’s first month-long 360 Lantau Carnival looks like being lots of fun for the whole family. There’ll be performing dancers and musicians in Ngong Ping Village, daily parades and free balloon workshops. A 360 Sky-Land-Sea Day Pass includes a Ngong Ping 360 round-trip cable car journey, unlimited rides on the new Lantau bus, a boat excursion in Tai O and one admission ticket to the Monkey’s Tale Theatre. Call 3666 0606, or visit www.np360.com.hk.
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FERRY SCHEDULES
NOVEMBER 2012 Mon-Fri (except PH)
Sat, Sun and PH
ACROSS LANTAU From DB 7:15am 3:05pm
From Mui Wo 07:45am 3:35pm
From DB 7:15am ＊ 8:45am # 10:45am 11:45am # 1:15pm 3:05pm # 4:15pm 6:15pm 8:05pm
From Mui Wo 7:45am ＊ 9:15am # 11:15am 12:15pm # 1:45pm 3:35pm # 4:45pm 6:45pm 8:30pm
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PROFILE
Pui O resident, Okka Scherer takes in abandoned animals and finds them homes. She sits down with Juan Miguel Sevilla to share her message of responsibility
giving voice to the
voiceless
A
cacophony of pet sound greets you as you enter her gate. A rush of warmth welcomes you into her house.
Okka Scherer, a former DB resident, homes more than 100 abandoned dogs at her Lantau home. She feeds them, takes care of them and treats them like family. In fact, they are her family. She lives with her partner, Joe Laraya who everybody calls Dr Joe, and two helpers who aid her in all her chores. Together, they are doing a lot for homeless animals in and around the Lantau area.
How it started Okka moved from Germany to Hong Kong about 13 years ago. Originally from the hotel and airline industry, there is
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November 2012
nothing in her past to indicate that animal welfare would become her vocation. She had always loved animals but had never made their well-being her main priority. That was until she experienced animal abuse at first hand. “Eleven years ago, when I still lived in DB, I was walking along the pier and I saw a puppy thrown into the sea,” Okka recalls. “This was a real turning point for me.” Needless to say, Okka saved the puppy and she became her first rescued animal. Amazingly Ellie, now fully grown, still lives with Okka at her house. Undocumented animal abuse is rampant in Hong Kong. Not knowing what to do with pets they can no longer take care of, many people resort to disposing of them in inhumane ways – or simply abandoning them. “Education,” says
Photos by Juan Miguel Sevilla
PROFILE
Okka Scherer at her Pui O hideaway with some of the 100 plus dogs she homes
Okka, “is vital. People need to know that they can hand over pets to others if the responsibility becomes too much. And, in the first instance, they need to know that accepting a pet into their lives is a big deal.”
Pui O menagerie Okka moved to Pui O five years ago, primarily so that she could have the space to take care of a lot of animals. Aside from the dogs, her current menagerie includes birds, cows, cats – basically any animal that needs help, including rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, turtles and tortoises. “Neighbours rarely complain about the noise,” she says. In fact, you can barely see Okka’s house from the main road. Tucked away deep in the countryside and shaded by trees,
she has found herself a real haven. Here, the dogs roam comfortably between yard and house – before they are successfully re-homed. While she works with prominent, local animal welfare charities like PALS (Protection of Animals Lantau South) and a soon-to-be-registered charity Kirsten’s Zoo, Okka does what she does purely out of love. “This is not a charity,” she says. “I don’t earn anything from this.” Her devotion is evident in her daily routine. A typical day starts at 5am when she walks the dogs with her two helpers. Due to the number of dogs in Okka’s care, the three rounds of walks take until about 9am. Feeding time then goes on until noon, when she stops for a break. At 1pm, it’s time for another series of walks, and at 4pm it’s feeding time once
November 2012
25
PROFILE
again. At 5pm, when many of us are just about to wrap up our day, Okka takes the dogs out again for a last walk. Her day usually ends at around 9pm when all the dogs have been properly fed and exercised. All this is hard work and fortunately Okka knows to ask for help when she needs it. During this weekend visit, several volunteers came to the house. They answered an advert that Okka ran online and, free of charge, help out with grooming the dogs. Okka, who works as an accountant once a week, welcomes all the hands-on help she can get, as well as monetary donations from those in the know in the community.
A volunteer helps out with grooming
Seeking a home As rescued animals continue to arrive at her doorstep, the number of pets in her care keeps growing and the work builds up. But for Okka, it’s not about getting rid of the strays. It’s about finding them a proper home. It’s not easy to adopt a dog from Okka. “I go through an interview process with a questionnaire,” she says. “I try to get to know the person who wants to adopt. It’s essential to make sure that the dogs go into the right hands.” Okka aims to discover if potential owners are capable of handling a pet. For instance, how many hours will the dog be left alone due to work commitments? What will happen when would-be owners leave Hong Kong for a holiday or for good? She thinks twice about anyone who cannot provide the same care she gives to her pets. In fact, she loves the animals so much, she will willingly take a pet back should the owner not be able to care for it properly. According to Okka, animals are capable of unconditional love, and this is something we need to show them in return. “While it’s
Owning a pet is a commitment for life always fun to have a pet, it bears a great responsibility,” she says. She encourages anyone who really wants a pet to adopt a rescued animal. There are so many animals without a home in Hong Kong and all they need is a warm, caring home. Much like the one that Okka strives so hard to provide for them.
Find it • Kirsten’s Zoo, 9490 2061 • Okka Scherer, 9544 9181 • Protection of Animals Lantau South, 9197 4371 • Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, www.spca.org.hk
Okka spending quality time with her dogs
Find more local heroes
26
November 2012
www.arounddb.com
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IN FOCUS
talk it out
If, by seeing a therapist you could avoid feeling this angry with yourself, your spouse, or even your child, would you try it? Mary Singer talks with counsellors and the counselled to gain an insight into the benefits of the practice
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November 2012
Illustration by Richard Leschinsky
IN FOCUS
I
available: psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioural, dialecticbehavioural, humanistic, career- and life-coaching, art therapy, dream analysis and so on. Deciding which route to go can cause anxiety!
Hadas Hecht, child counsellor and director of the Child and Family Development Practice, located in DB North Plaza, says, “Therapy/ counselling is no longer considered something you have to hide and be ashamed of. On the contrary, it shows that people are aware of themselves and their difficulties and are open enough to discuss and solve them.”
On the couch
Former DBer Sheersa Day (not her real name) participated in a Jungian dream analysis session at the Jung Centre Hong Kong on her first try. This type of therapy is useful for gaining a greater understanding of the dynamics of personality, and is popular among creative types. Famed Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung proposed the notion that dreams can provide insight and meaning into our past and present lives, thereby equipping us to visualise our best future. The objective of this analytical process is to help individuals develop greater self-realisation and ‘individuation’, or personal potential.
Talk is therapy. Talking is one of the best ways to overcome anxiety, get things off your chest and generally feel better about yourself in the world. And of course when talking to a professional there are a wide variety of methods
“Dr Shirley See Yan Ma [a Swiss-trained Jungian psychoanalyst] had asked me to talk about a long-time recurring dream,” recalls Sheersa. “Jungian dream analysis requires a clear understanding of the individual’s personal
have to see my therapist!” Who do you think you are? Woody Allen? For the longest time such words conjured up unflattering images of weak-minded or self-absorbed individuals. These days, however, the smart folk are making an effort to seek out the expertise of trained psychologists and therapists.
November 2012
29
IN FOCUS situation, and so Dr Ma also asked me to talk about my personal history. Parts of my dream were nebulous, but she made a plausible connection relevant to my past history, my family dynamics and my present-day aspirations. I was impressed. Dr Ma and I then discussed specific creative strategies and tactics that I could use to move towards my key goals, based upon this newfound awareness.” “Properly known, dreams can tell us how to make good decisions, help us be more self-aware and tap into our vast, unused creative potential,” explains Dr Ma. “They can alert us to something wrong in our psyche, our inner self, and tell us how to fix it. They can tell us if something is missing in our life and point the way to our seeing what it is. They can also connect us more deeply to the spiritual realm. Through this connection, we can get a clearer understanding of how to achieve our destiny.” Certainly the session worked for Sheersa. “I had arrived as someone who was used to solving her own problems,” she says. “I left determined to examine what this session uncovered, eager to see how I could move forward with this new perspective.” And her advice for anyone considering therapy? “Go for it! Once you find the right fit with a particular brand of therapy – you reap the benefits.”
It takes two to tango Kim Patterson (not her real name) and her husband sought out relationship counselling after years of fertility treatments, and she has this to say about the process. “My main impression is that counselling can provide invaluable tools to help people move through challenging situations. For example, when couples experience loss through infertility, counselling can create an environment in which they can more easily express themselves. People often grieve in different ways, which can heighten feelings of isolation and despair. Experienced counsellors can ask the appropriate questions or put forward suggestions to help
keep the lines of communication open, a key to dealing with issues in a healthy way. Counsellors can provide a nonjudgmental means of support, while offering insights that can help you deal with overwhelming feelings in times of crisis.” Although Kim is satisfied with her own experience, she does have some caveats. “I know of people who have not had positive experiences with counselling because they did not seek an alternative when they found they were not compatible with the first counsellor. My opinion is that if you believe the person you have been referred to is not skilled enough to deal with the situation at hand, find someone else. If you commit to the process with a professional who you trust is well qualified, then there is no reason you should have a negative experience.” But that is not to say that during the course of events there will not be upheaval, Kim continues. “It can often be unsettling when working through difficult and painful issues. It may even seem like a case of taking two steps forward and one step back at times. That is why it may often require many sessions in order to get a handle on things. And it might not be until well after the counselling has come to a conclusion and the dust has settled that you have found you've made progress.” It is also not unusual to go for a few top-up sessions from time to time if you become overwhelmed again or are feeling vulnerable. “You might find you need only a few of these extra sessions to feel grounded again,” says Kim,
Therapists can alert us to what is wrong, and give us the tools to fix it
Find more on health-related issues
30
November 2012
www.arounddb.com
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IN FOCUS “because you have already done a lot of the hard work in previous sessions.”
Counselling for kids It is important to note that counselling is not just the domain of grownups. Children and teenagers are just as vulnerable to life’s vagaries – and just as deserving of the care and concern of a trained therapist to help frame a coping process. “It is important that parents invest time and effort to help their children overcome difficult times,” says Hadas. “But sometimes this needs to be supported by professional help. Often parents try to avoid labelling their child by not sending him to seek professional help, but actually, it is the child’s behaviour (in a distressed situation) that will cause the labelling. By sending a child to therapy, parents make sure that he will get support so he can feel ‘normal’ again, and work on the issues and challenges he is facing.” How will you know if your child needs counselling? “Pay attention to the child’s behaviour and monitor how he handles problematic relationships with parents or peers, and personal issues such as sadness and low selfesteem,” Hadas says. “How well does he adjust to new situations in life, and after traumatic events? Are there difficulties with accepting authority, is there a reluctance to go to school, significant exam anxiety, bullying and so
on?” Hadas adds that parents differ in their attentiveness and sensitiveness to their children’s problems, and their degree of worry. Sometimes it will be a teacher who brings issues to parents’ attention. Hadas broaches the subject of cost, too. “There are lots of therapists working in methods that are focused and bring results in a short (cost-effective) period of time. These methods put tools in the child’s and parents’ hands to deal with the symptoms and prevent the development of the situation or of similar situations in the future.” Talk therapy is a growth industry, but it is not a panacea. Moreover, since it involves human relations, it is not a perfect science – it is not even a perfect art. Studies have shown that drawbacks include lack of knowledge/ skills on the part of the therapist, the therapist’s perceptions and goals being imposed on the client, and personality conflicts. So shop around.
Find it • Child and Family Development Practice, 2914 2223, www.childdevelopment.com.hk • Jung Centre Hong Kong, 2523 4583, www.eastwestjung.com
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FAMILY MATTERS
a family affair Photos courtesy of Steve Corbin
With the Wellcome Junior Challenge organised by Team FEAR now heading into its 11th year, Karmel Schreyer talks to race founder Steve Corbin and his son Thomas about humble beginnings, the importance of finishing, and the people who have made this Asia’s premier adventure race for youth
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November 2012
FAMILY MATTERS
I
n DB North Plaza, I meet up with Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge founder Steve Corbin, and am thrilled that he has brought along his 19-year-old son, Thomas. I know, from hearing Steve talk at a previous Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge award ceremony, that Thomas is the inspiration for the event. “When I was younger, my dad did a lot of Action Asia events,” Thomas, who is now studying at the University of Bath in the UK, explains. “Every day, at about 6am, he would take me and my friend for a hike to the top of the Lookout or even the Tiger’s Head. We biked, too. It made me think I could take on an Action Asia event, but I was too young. I told Dad!” And so began what is now one of Discovery Bay’s most eagerly anticipated sporting events.
The start up Steve launched what was then Team FEAR (Far Eastern Adventure Racers) Junior Challenge in 2001, and father and son both talk about that first year with pride. “There were only 40 kids – U9s, U10s and U11s. Now of course
you can compete until you are 18,” says Thomas, and Steve continues. “I went to the then head of Discovery Bay International School [DBIS] Anne-Marie Naughton, and said I’d like to use the school for the event. She thought it was a great idea. “Participants had to shoot basketballs before they could start that first year,” explains Steve, the details clearly still fresh. He then goes on to describe the route. “Basketball challenge/ trail running/ DB Valley Road/ water jump in the rock pools/ scramble up the gorge/ mountain biking/ skills test/ drop the bike/ get back to Seabee Lane/ back to DBIS / mini-assault course.” I feel a bit relieved my own kids were not old enough to participate that first year, and in jest I tell Steve and Thomas as much. They both laugh, nodding. “Most parents were terrified. We had to personally call parents to let them know their kids would be safe. And it didn’t help that because it was our first youth event, we had no photos of kids, and so the posters had photos of adults abseiling.” Steve smiles when he explains this oversight, but Thomas cuts in, more serious, “As soon as they’ve done it once, they love it.” True enough, but because this was the beginning of something entirely new, it cannot be overstated what a job it was to convince people to get on board. “I took DB Management on a tour of the proposed route and they were sceptical,” says Steve who was able to convince them ‘to agree not to stop us’. But now Hong Kong Resort International (HKRI) is very supportive, and over the years has provided funding, manpower and facilities. “HKRI knows that the Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge is one of Discovery Bay’s key events, along with the Backyard Bazaar and Picnic in the Park. It’s a draw to DB,” says Steve. No kidding.
Competitors scaling the heights back in 2011
November 2012
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FAMILY MATTERS
The water jump – a leap of faith
Ongoing logistics With such success comes a measure of headache – or rather, heartbreak. “My biggest disappointment is that we are not able to let everyone participate,” Steve says. He finds it difficult to say no when he gets phone calls from the tearful children – and parents – who have been waitlisted. “There were 650 participants last year. We don’t think we could safely add many more.” Applications had reached 850 last year before the waitlist, too, was cut off. The Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge organisers are always mindful of how they can improve the event, not just in terms of finding new challenges for the participants, but also in terms of administration. They have learned from the challenges resulting from last year’s delayed online application process, giving everyone this year a very clear and timely heads-up as to when enrolment would commence. Applications were booked out in three-and-ahalf hours! “Some parents asked us why we didn’t specify the exact minute that applications would open. But we kept the opening time vague because as a non-profit, we just can’t afford the kind of computing power that would be needed to avoid crashing the system,” Steve explains, more than a little apologetically. Applications are first come, first served but the organisers have an additional allotment of slots, which they offer based on certain criteria. For example, some categories (say, the U9s mixed) may have only one entry signed up, so they will offer a spot to another team in that category, should one be waitlisted. They also give consideration
Making a splash with marshals in attendance
to former race champions who wish to defend their title. Steve adds that Discovery Bay teams account for about 60 percent of all participants. But it’s not only for the safety of participants that numbers must be limited. Recent enhancements to Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge’s marshal plan, such as the sectionleader concept, have proven logistically effective. Dealing with parents, too, is an issue that cannot be ignored. “I worry about the details of the course, like where can the parents stand? We have to manage that parental enthusiasm,” Steve says with a grin. One of the benefits of the growth of the event is that, as it is run entirely by volunteers, all money raised above the organisational costs is donated to the charity Youth Outreach. This Hong Kong based non-profit helps young people less fortunate than most of those who are able to take part. Youth Outreach also reciprocates by providing specialist technical help on race day. “We are very fortunate that we have attracted a number of sponsors to enable us to run the event,” Steve reiterates.
New for 2012 I am told that Wellcome, DB’s North Plaza supermarket, the event’s main sponsor for the past three years, has signed on for at least another three. And there’s also an auspicious new sponsor. “Auberge Discovery Bay has been great,” says Steve. “Management is offering us manpower, with marshalling and also with prep work, repairing and cutting trails, and clean-up work.” With the hotel opening later this year, Steve expects that the Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge organisers will be availing themselves of hotel
Find more on the Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge
36
November 2012
www.arounddb.com
More than just Dance! photo by Tracey van Geest www.inspiredimages.co
Shop 112 DB Plaza, Discovery Bay, 29874338 info@dmr-hk.com www.dmr-hk.com
FAMILY MATTERS
facilities at future events. “We may not be abseiling off the hotel building, but we will be working together in some way,” he quips. Steve is also pleased to be able to confide a few more tidbits of information to Around DB readers. “The start (on November 25) will be at North Plaza, and the finish will be at DB’s main beach. The senior participants will need to brush up on their navigational skills – we’ll explain more about that to them beforehand.” In addition, mindful of bottlenecks in previous years, water jumps will be located in three separate places, based on age. As we sit in the coffee shop, Steve points out a group of young boys riding past on their bikes. “They’re already training. I think some kids start training in April.” Thomas notes that the bikes still carry their Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge numbers, and I admit, those numbers are still on my kids’ bikes! Here is where Steve confides that one of the most satisfying things about the event, for him, is watching the participants who finish the race – the ones who come in at the end of it all. When I suggest to Thomas that he must feel very proud of Steve, son grins over at dad. “It was a brilliant idea,” he says.
Thomas Corbin (left) in 2001
Race founder Steve Corbin
Be sure to visit the www.arounddb.com (event gallery) to see photos of the 2012 Wellcome TEAM FEAR Junior Challenge. We’ll post these photos right after the event on November 25.
Find it • Wellcome Team FEAR Junior Challenge, www.team-fear.com • Youth Outreach, www.youthoutreach.org.hk
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MONEY MATTERS
feather your own Photos courtesy of Platinum Financial Services Ltd
nest
MPF savings may form a large part of your nest egg in retirement years – treat them gingerly
Your Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) savings are now yours to invest as you see fit. What in the world will you do with them? Gordon Franks provides some timely advice
E
mployees in Hong Kong will soon enjoy greater flexibility in investing their Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) investments with the introduction of the Employee Choice Arrangement (ECA). As of this month, employees will be able to transfer their accrued benefits to MPF schemes of their own choice – rather than the ones chosen by their employer. However, with flexibility comes choice, and although there may be approximately 2.5 million Hong Kong employees free to choose their own MPF scheme, the question they initially should be asking themselves is, ‘Should I switch to another MPF scheme?’. Since its inception in December 2000, trustees and schemes have been chosen by the employers based on the settings of the MPF system. This system aims for low administration
costs since every employer will select one trustee and one scheme. Taking into account that there will only be a few hundred thousand employers, compared to several million employees, this provides significant administration and cost savings to employers. However, 11 years on, and with the size of MPFs getting larger and larger, it is now time to provide more choice to the market and hence the introduction of the ECA. The ECA allows employees to choose the trustee and scheme but there are restrictions. An employee can transfer his accrued benefits to another MPF scheme, meaning the contributions and investment returns accrued under the employee’s MPF account. Both the employee and employer are entitled to make contributions into an MPF account by
November 2012
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MONEY MATTERS
As of this month, you have the chance to steer your own course with your MPF investments
law with each employee having their own account. This is divided into three sub accounts: i) employer contribution under current employment, ii) employee contribution under current employment, and iii) contributions from former employment or self-employment. According to the ECA, employees are allowed to transfer the accrued benefits from ii) and iii) only.
them to the new trustee for reinvestment. A time lag will exist where you will be out of the market and the accrued benefits will not be invested. During this period fund prices may go up and down substantially and there is the risk that you may sell low and buy high.
To switch or not to switch?
Before making a decision to switch, it is of course worth reviewing your existing scheme and making direct comparisons to the alternatives to make sure that the change is justified. Factors to be considered would include the product itself, fees and charges, service and your personal needs.
Going back to the original question of, ‘Should I switch to another MPF scheme?’, it is essential to note that in the first instance there is no right or wrong answer. What we should be asking ourselves is, ‘Why switch?’. It’s also important to make sure that any decision is an informed one based on the fundamental fact that your MPF is a long-term investment to achieve retirement goals. Decisions to move should not be made on short-term fluctuations. As much as the ECA brings with it flexibility, it also has drawbacks which need to be considered. Employees will only be allowed to transfer once per calendar year in a lump sum. Employees are not allowed to transfer their benefits in batches or transfer only part of the accrued benefits in the two sub accounts. This removes one of the valuable benefits of investment known as dollar-cost averaging, where you can smooth out the entry price of investments, and makes timing more important. It is also important to note however that a change will not be instantaneous. It can take around six weeks to cash out an employee’s accrued benefits by the original trustee and to transfer
Find more financial advice and services
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November 2012
Make informed decisions
When thinking about the new product, look at both the scheme and the underlying funds. You will need to ensure that not only are there a wide range of funds within the scheme but that they also meet your investment objectives. It is then worth looking deeper into the funds to check their features, risk levels and performance. A scheme with more funds may not always be the best one for you. Note too that past performance of an MPF fund can serve only as a reference and may not reflect its future performance. Fees are always important, and I am sure that many people would pay a higher fee if they could get superior returns. Comparisons on fees can be made to the market average but make sure that you are comparing like for like with funds, as not all funds have the same fee structures. Fund Expense Ratios (FER) can be a good way to compare fees and these are available in the fund factsheet and also on
www.arounddb.com
MONEYMATTERS
the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) website. As a general rule the lower the FER the better, so long as there are also returns! Service is also a key. Check whether the information on MPF funds under MPF schemes offered by the trustee is comprehensive and easy to understand. Also consider factors such as the availability of information, frequency of benefits statements and the number of times you can switch funds every year for free. As with any investment your personal goals are always important and there cannot be a one-size fits all approach. Current investment objectives, current life stage (including years to retirement) and risk tolerance must all be carefully considered.
keep in mind that your MPF forms part of your retirement savings. Switching to alternative schemes that forgo your long-term goals, in return for one-off rebates or incentives is simply not a wise decision and could affect your longterm gains. Ultimately it is important to remember that although you now have the right to transfer, it is not compulsory to do so, and as such you need not be in any hurry. The MPF is a long-term investment, so employees should carefully consider their own needs, rather than switching for the sake of it or simply following the crowd. One thing the ECA certainly does do is provide us with the impetus to review our MPF portfolios and if appropriate, consolidate all our preserved accounts for easier management and centralised investing.
Honour your long-term goals The introduction of the ECA is expected to open up the MPF retail market, and at current calculations this is expected to be close to HK$260 billion. This is naturally a sizeable market and trustees will be vying for your business. Rebates in the form of fee reduction and bonus units are permitted but incentives such as gift coupons are not. You should always
AroundDB_Nov_r1_op.indd 1
Gordon Franks is managing director of Platinum Financial Services Ltd (PFS), an independent Hong Kong-based investment and financial advisory firm catering to professional expatriates across Asia. Email Gordon at info@fsplatinum.com.
10/12/2012 9:32:37 AM
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TALKINGPOINTS
Alison Price supports the Cambodia-based Somaly Mam Foundation
Next February, Alison will be cycling Cambodia for her cause
simply giving D
o you have what it takes to make a difference in the world or do you feel that only people like Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, Bill Gates, and the like are capable of making a difference? According to three can-do local women, Alison Price, Nicole Woolhouse and Jeanette Thorsen, we can all contribute and make a difference in our own way, as long as we find a cause that we feel passionate about.
Cycling to stop sex trafficking DB resident Alison Price has been involved with the Cambodiabased Somaly Mam Foundation since March. Somaly Mam was sold into the sex trade at the age of 12. The Somaly Mam Foundation rehabilitates and reintegrates women and children who have been saved from enforced sexual servitude and, to date, it has rescued an incredible 6,000 girls. “Saving girls from sex slavery is a great cause. Too often, we’re so indulged in our own life that we forget there are people in this world that we can make a little happier and feel more loved,” says Alison. Talking to Alison, it’s obvious that caring for others is a passion. In March 2012, Alison and her friend Sue Beer cycled 500 kilometres across Cambodia in seven days for their cause, raising over HK$100,000. This August, the pair collected 125 satchels after a very successful School Bag Appeal in DB and
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Hong Kong. The duo personally delivered the bags to some of the survivors in the Somaly Mam Foundation shelters. Thanks to their efforts, awareness about the charity is growing locally. “Angels for Orphans, a registered Hong Kong non-profit, has taken the Somaly Mam Foundation under its wing,” notes Alison. “This means that the number of donations coming from Hong Kong is growing – and people who donate amounts over HK$100 get a tax break.” Over Chinese New Year, Alison and Sue will embark on another challenge: cycling through breath-taking terrain in Vietnam and Cambodia to raise funds for the foundation. Alison says, “It's a once in a lifetime experience where you can cycle as much or as little of the 545 kilometres as you like, and at the same time witness at first-hand the work of the Somaly Mam Foundation.” This adventure will take the participants from Saigon to Siem Reap, February 8 to 20, 2013. There's still room for another 24 riders, so why not sign up for this worthy adventure?
Offering hope in a box Box of Hope (BOH), a charity DB kids have long held close to their hearts, is the brainchild of Nicole Woolhouse. “BOH literally started over a cup of coffee”, she explains. “My son used to do a similar project in the UK called Operation Christmas Child, shipping over one million boxes to Eastern Europe and I was keen to see if it would work here.”
Photos by Tracey van Geest, and courtesy of Alison Price, Nicole Woolhouse and Jeanette Thorsen
TALKING POINTS
Nicole Woolhouse set up Box Of Hope to give to children in need
A delighted recipient of one of the 23,000 boxes delivered to date
Do you believe change starts with you? Do you put cause above self? Around DB meets three dedicated, energetic and inspiring local altruists Nicole and pal Harriet Cleverly embarked on the project in 2008 with their two cars, and the help of six schools and a few friends. Their husbands generously provided funding. That first year they collected a staggering 1,200 boxes filled with fun and educational Xmas treats for underprivileged children (double the amount that they expected). “The idea is to encourage children age three to 18 to be aware of their community, showing them how they can help make a difference to children in need throughout Asia,” says Nicole. Five years and 23,000 boxes later, Nicole and her team now work with over 80 schools and several large local corporations. Boxes are distributed to children all over Asia. Hong Kong recipients include Harmony House, Refuge Home and the Po Leung Kuk emergency care ward. Nicole acknowledges that BOH’s biggest challenge is space. She says, “We never really know how many boxes we might get. In 2010 it was 6,500 and in 2011, 13,000! Fortunately, Hong Kong Land has donated office space which is a huge help, and we get continuous support from Deutsche Bank, Allen & Overy and Crown Relocations.” She also mentions that her altruism is contagious as 12 of her friends now volunteer with BOH. Each October, children from more than 80 schools all over Hong Kong, including all the schools in DB, now make boxes for BOH. Kids can also enter the BOH competition for the chance to help deliver the boxes around Hong Kong. They
need simply email Nicole a letter or picture (by November 9) describing what they like about BOH and why they hope to go on a delivery trip. “The best part is watching the children's faces light up when they open the box and cannot quite believe that it is all for them,” Nicole says. “What I love about the work for BOH is seeing everyone come together each year to work really hard to make it happen; it is so rewarding. You never cease to be amazed at people's generosity whether it’s the boxes they donate, the time they put in, or the organisational help they provide.”
Running for education It started two years ago when long-time DB resident Jeanette Thorsen and her husband Lars decided to take on the 250-kilometre, seven-day Gobi March for her 40th birthday. While training for the challenge, the couple decided to take the opportunity to run for a cause – and to pick a charity that could become a family project. Jeanette recalls, “As I lived in Africa as a child, and Lars and I have travelled there together, I felt that Africa should be our focus. Our kids [Amanda now 16 and Andreas 15] suggested we find a schooling project – something they could relate to, help build and maybe even visit as volunteers one day.” The Thorsens finally chose to work with Hope for Children (HFC), a UK-based, non-sectarian, non-political, non-
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TALKINGPOINTS school materials and educational toys and books throughout December to send to Uganda,” Jeanette explains.
profit that sends all funds directly to the cause to which they are donated. HFC helps disabled, orphaned, poor and exploited children, in particular those living in developing countries. Jeanette and family are now totally committed to the charity, and what they see as a life-long project: to build and maintain the Bajjo Hope School in Uganda.
Jeanette Thorsen and family have made the Bajjo Hope School in Uganda their mission
The first funds raised came from the 4 Deserts’ Gobi March. Jeanette and Lars managed to raise HK$82,000 for the school of 43 children. But this was of course only the beginning because not only did the school need a new building and all its facilities but also money for materials, teacher training and day-to-day operations. Two years on, with the school building just finished, enrolment has been extended to 90 children, as Bajjo Hope School can now accept primary as well as nursery students. The next challenge is to provide one nutritional meal a day for pupils. “We believe it will be an incentive for parents to send their kids to school if by so doing their children are guaranteed one proper meal,” Jeanette explains. HFC has been a wonderful organisation to work with,” Jeanette adds. “We get all the support we need, and we have been able to follow the project’s development ensuring that all our donations are used correctly.” In fact, anyone donating to the school need only reference The Gobi Runners/ Thorsen Family to enable the family to track contributions. Last month, thanks to the DB Recreational Club (DBRC), Jeanette managed to collect three big boxes of sport goods for the Bajjo Hope School during the club’s annual Charity Tennis Tournament. “Head coach Stevo was fantastic and the DBRC has offered to help collect
Find more on local charities
Alison, Nicole and Jeanette have at least one thing in common. They all share Mother Teresa’s belief that, “If you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one.” Anyone can start doing something relevant and within their ability. Every effort counts, no matter how small and insignificant it may seem.
When asked what they would recommend to someone who wants to embark on an altruistic project, Jeanette stresses that one of the essential factors is finding a charity that provides good support and regular feedback. “You want to know where the money goes!” Alison adds, “Whatever the idea or initiative, don't give up. If you believe in what you're doing, others will believe in you. Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Know that ideas can become a very firm reality.” Nicole readily concurs. “Hong Kong is an amazing place for starting something new. We found people incredibly helpful – giving up their time and providing contacts. The key is not to think you have to help everyone, even if you help one person that makes for a great day.”
Find it • Box of Hope, www.boxofhope.org; nicole@boxofhope.org • Hope for Children, www.hope-for-children.org • Somaly Mam Foundation, www.somaly.org; CyclingToStopTheTraffik@yahoo.com; www.facebook.com/CyclingtoStoptheTraffik
www.arounddb.com
ESCAPES
few frills, just thrills
Photos by Catharine Nicol
Relying almost exclusively on public transport, Catharine Nicol circumnavigates Java taking in eight destinations (including Borobudur) in just 12 days
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ESCAPES
F
rom taxi to train, travel (minibus) to angkot (smaller minibus), tuk-tuk to bicycle, a road trip through Java is an adventure of haggling and cajoling, laughing and arguing. As a single female traveller, taking mostly public transport through a country where Indonesian women don’t travel alone, I found numerous locals started up conversations with me mid-journey, shocked and fascinated by my ‘brave’ solo trip. Java has a traveller-friendly infrastructure, for the most part. When I started planning my ambitious 12-day road trip from Jakarta to Surabaya I discovered that with a little private help here and there, I could cover most of it without ‘cheating’.
Jakarta People love to hate Jakarta, and granted it doesn’t have much in the way of leisure temptations, but I’m a fan. Perhaps that’s because I have friends who take me to the best bars and clubs while I’m there, like Loewy’s the afterwork watering hole, Potato Head the quirky, fun Indonesian brand bar/ restaurant with a sister beach club in Bali, X2 to ramp the pace up a little and Dragonfly to dance through the night. For Indonesians, Jakarta is about the many mammoth shopping malls. For tourists, the colonial architecture of Fatahillah Square, including the Jakarta History Museum, comes to life in the evenings when locals congregate, giving a charming picture of city life. The traffic in this crazy city is bonkers with the volume of cars and insane switchbacks you have to negotiate to get anywhere. So I stuck to the bus lanes and took ojeks (motorbike taxis) which both beat the queues. Getting out of town is made easy by travels and trains.
it’s bumper to bumper from Jakarta to bargain-blessed Bandung with modern blocks of spacious shops full of brand-name clothing and homewares. Tangkuban Perahu, 30 kilometres north by angkot or travel, is part volcano with sulphurous water hissing and bubbling off its slopes. It’s a pleasant hike up to the 1,830-metre peak, and on the way down I hired a guide to walk me through the jungle and tea plantations to the main road leading to the hot springs. The plantations are beautiful, the workers friendly, and the ubiquitous stall at the end of the path a great place to hang out with a local family. Here I flagged down a passing motorbike driver to ‘putt-putt’ me to Sari Ater. The hot springs are no frills to the extreme. Throw some money at the experience and you get to bathe in your very own concrete compartment. Far more entertaining is the affordable pool or the free ‘pond’ where kids play and old men gossip. In deference to the locals cover your bikini with shorts and a T-shirt.
Magelang From Bandung I took the scenic eight-hour Argo Wilis train to Yogyakarta, Indonesia’s centre of culture. My first major cheat found me ceremoniously picked up from the station and swished by private car through villages and jungle to MesaStila outside Magelang City. This culturally evocative resort of old Javanese villas lies on a working coffee plantation. Guests enjoy the cool air, spectacular grounds and luxurious local cuisine, plus a hammam (Turkish bath) and spa. Stylishly renovated, MesaStila also offers wellness retreats and, the highlight of my stay, hands-on activities like helping local farmers weed their paddy fields.
Bandung My next stop made any Jakartians I talked to envious but not because of Tangkuban Perahu Volcano or the Sari Ater Hot Springs. Two words: outlet shopping. At the weekend
Borobudur’s incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site with its 504 Buddha statues
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ESCAPES Borobudur Most tourists bus in to Borobudur, spend the day loving the incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site and its 504 Buddha statues, buy a few souvenirs and then bus back to Yogyakarta. I was chauffeured from MesaStila to the village, and stayed an indulgent three nights here. It’s true: the monument is incredible, addictive even, changing throughout the day according to the light. Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. The rest of the village and its surroundings are remarkably untouched, and from the stares I got it’s clear that the villagers don’t get to see many foreign tourists. The truly majestic Amanjiwo (operated by Aman Resorts) is changing all this, coaxing well-heeled travellers to stay longer and take in the hinterland. Tours include climbing the hill behind the resort at dawn for a clear view of the nearby volcanoes, and jumping on a bicycle with a local guide to pedal around the surrounding villages.
Tuk-tuks at every street corner
Yogyakarta and Solo Another cheat saw me driven from Borobudur back to Yogyakarta, which was far more modern and chaotic than I expected. Duck away from the main shopping streets to see Yogyakarta Palace, a living museum of Javanese culture, home to the king and his family. The stunning and romantic Taman Sari Water Palace, a formal royal garden with an artificial lake and pavilions, is also well worth strolling. From Yogyakarta I caught an evening commuter train south for the short trip to Solo, chatting to students on their way home from school. Here I spent all my time on two wheels, exploring the town and its charming balance of old and new. At the Rumah Turi, a rustic boutique hotel, staff treated me like one of the family, taking me out for Solo’s speciality meat balls and making sure I caught all of the sights. There’s the 250-year-old Kasunanan and Mangkunegaran palaces, Triwindu Antique Market and Klewer Market of batik stalls.
Hanging out at the Jakarta History Museum
Malang Next stop Malang – a seven-hour, fiercely air-conditioned overnight train ride later. I emerged into the 6am sunlight trying to uncrumple myself for my final cheat, a taxi to Tugu Malang. Again, from rags to riches, I was immediately welcomed into my antique- and atmosphere-laden new home, set in front of a buffet breakfast and invited to rest, relax and enjoy. Later I strolled through the town revelling in the historic Dutch architecture. In the chaotic bird market, the narrow lanes are alive with a rainbow of chirping birds. Cages of all shapes house this feathered real-estate market; stalls serve up wriggling worms, maggots and other beakwatering snacks.
Find more exciting holiday destinations
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November 2012
Surabaya’s exotic Chinese market
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ESCAPES
Exploring Yogyakarta by bike
Surabaya Sadly I didn’t have time for a detour to Mount Bromo, the 2,329-metre volcano which sits in a vast ‘sea of sand’ in eastern Java’s Tengger Massif. Instead, I bookended my trip with another (three-hour) minibus ride to Surabaya, and taxied the last few kilometres to Surabaya. There’s more of interest in this large, modern city than first meets the eye. The Sampoerna Tobacco Factory is a fascinating, if politically incorrect visit – you watch the rows and rows of cigarette rollers from behind a window. From there, take a tuk-tuk to the Chinese market with its soft carpet of garlic skins, and the Arabic market where you feel like you’re walking in a Middle Eastern souk.
Where to stay
Stay at the Shangri-La Surabaya, or another of the country’s grande dames, the Majapahit Hotel. Raffles-esque, its courtyards and arched walkways, old tiles and dark-wood antiques conjure up a time long gone. Have a drink at the Maj Bar and absorb the old-world atmosphere before jetting home again.
Solo: Rumah Turi, www.rumahturi.com.
Jakarta: Ritz-Carlton Pacific Place, www.ritzcarlton.com; Kempinski Jakarta, www.kempinski.com. Bandung: Hilton Bandung, www.hilton.com; Hyatt Regency Bandung, www.hyatt.com. Megelang: MesaStila, www.mesahotelsandresorts.com/mesastila Borobudur: Amanjiwo, www.amanresorts.com. Yogyakarta: The Phoenix Hotel, www.mgallery.com; Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta, www.yogyakarta.regency.hyatt.com. Malang: Tugu Malang, www.tuguhotels.com. Surabaya: Shangri-La Surabaya, www.shangri-la.com; Majapahit Surabaya, www.hotel-majapahit.com.
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TECH TREND
bringing you back
online
What do you do when the technology you use on a daily basis gets an upgrade that renders it inaccessible to you? Paula Lepore Burrough, technology coordinator at Island School, sheds some light
I
Trying to diagnose a computer problem (www.clipartof.com)
t is already November, but 2012 is still ticking with change. Back on the job this fall, I was hit with some new frequently asked questions (FAQs), and for the most part, the questions I was asked were practical and simple to resolve. However, change and the unknown continue to make us uncomfortable in the 21st Century world of everdeveloping technology. Even minor changes and upgrades can turn us away from appreciating and pleasantly continuing with the technology to which we have become accustomed. So here are a few answers to those FAQs.
Driven out
Stuck between platforms
Lost without a compass
All at sea
You may have returned to your Gmail account to discover Google Docs has had an upgrade called the Drive. Don’t panic. Your documents still exist, under All files (previously Home) and all your folders are still intact. After you have installed the Drive, you can sync your docs to your hard drive, or drag files into the Drive to upload to the cloud. With folders that have been shared with you, just drag them into the Drive to sync. In Preferences you can select which folders you are interested in automatically syncing. Consider it a new and improved type of Dropbox that will allow you to upload any file type and easily share with others.
Like many of my work colleagues, you might find yourself alternating between various platforms (PC/ MAC). If you are working on the cloud it makes it easy to access files from either platform, as long as you have the appropriate programmes to open the files. If you want to view or transfer large quantities of files between the machines using an external hard drive, you need to format the external hard drive so that it is compatible with both platforms. You can use the Disk Utility Tool on a Mac by formatting to MSDOS (FAT). Both a Mac and a PC will be able to read and write all the files if each file is no larger than 4GB.
The new IOS6 update offers new opportunities for the disabled, educator and parent. At the time of writing, the new Maps app supported by TomTom and Yelp was holding a few of us back from the software update. Google Maps can still be accessed from the Safari browser, however it lacks the ability to track your location. New features you can embrace are the ability to take panoramas with a camera (only enabled on phones), tap and click in an email to attach a photo, delete music and artist with a swipe, share calendars, limit ad tracking and more. As for battery life, the new operating system does not seem to shorten it with either the 4S or the 5S.
Whether heading to the city for work or school, ferry trips are often a scheduled time for catching up on laptop work. If you are not connecting to the free PCCW wi-fi spot, there is a way to get you back online. Pull out your iPhone and get your money's worth. It is surprising that regular iPhone users don't know that they have the ability to create their own wi-fi hotspot. Go ahead, and set one up instantly. In General Settings simply click on Personal Hotspot, and slide the slider to ‘on’ to create a wi-fi network. A password will then be provided for you on the phone for a secure connection to the network you have created.
Find more techie news
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November 2012
www.arounddb.com
ACTION
free
wheelin’ Cycling is the latest craze in our community with many doing it competitively and others simply along for the ride. Karen Fairley fills us in
T
here are 101 reasons to ride! First and foremost, of course, it’s healthful. Cycling results in increased cardiovascular fitness, better balance and flexibility, and improved strength and stamina. It can be done by people of all ages, from childhood up, even through the adult years when achy joints cut out more stressful exercising like jogging. Being out on your bike is good for the people around you (and for the environment) as well. There is no polluting exhaust released, and no oil or gas consumed. You are able to get where you want to go and yet put one less car on the road. Riding a bike is also a proven stress releaser. It’s flat-out fun.
(up to the Peak and on the south side). But in my opinion some of the best rides are found right here in Lantau. Whether you’re cycling to get fit, compete in one of the numerous local races or simply to get out and about, Hong Kong Disneyland is a great place to start. The roads are quiet and there are some fast, flat stretches as well as two gentle climbs. If you are up to a flat, 30-kilometre loop, start at Disney and ride out along the service road to Tung Chung. Cycle through the town centre and out to Chek Lap Kok Southern Perimeter Road, then turn around and cycle back to Disney via the Caribbean Coast. This route is great if you want to get some serious mileage under your belt on straight roads.
Best local routes There are so many exciting options for cyclists Kowloon side (Sai Kung and the New Territories) and on Hong Kong Island
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Should you be keen on doing some hills, cycle to Tung Chung and head out on the main road over to South Lantau – this intense hill climb is known (not surprisingly) as the
Photos courtesy of Sports World
ACTION
Karen Fairley, a director of Sports World cycling DB with Bruce Pye, the company’s owner and director
Beast! Once you’ve conquered the Beast, head downhill to the main road, turn right and ride along the coast. Here you can take in the beautiful scenery from a series of rolling hill climbs before heading up to the Big Buddha – another testing climb. Descending from the Buddha, your options are to ride back down to the main road, turn right to Tai O or left towards Mui Wo. Alternatively, if you’re feeling really hard core, head home via the Beast.
a commuter bag. Once again a maximum of four bikes are allowed at any one time.
Have bike, will travel
Health and safety
When transporting your bike out of DB with a bunch of friends (unless you’re taking the ferry), keep the numbers down to avoid logistical problems. You can get in and out of DB using the airport bus but you must embark at Chianti bus stop (a maximum of four bicycles are allowed at any one time providing there is enough space in the baggage compartment). Alternatively, you can jump on the Tung Chung or Sunny Bay bus as long as you put your bike inside
It goes without saying that you need to be extra diligent when cycling around Discovery Bay as we share the roads with a lot of children. But it’s important to prioritise your own safety too. If you’re new to the sport, visit your doctor for an understanding of your cardiovascular fitness and blood work. Go at your own pace and don’t push yourself too far, too fast. Always carry enough water, and plan your route to take in plenty of refreshment stops.
You can also make use of the DB transport van to get bikes through the tunnel; you then meet them on the other side. Note that this service is only available on Wednesday and Saturday mornings at fixed times. It’s HK$25 each way for the bikes and you need a group of three or four.
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ACTION
Pay close attention to your cadence, or pedalling speed. This is the number of times your legs complete full circles in 60 seconds of riding. A smooth, fluid pedal stroke combined with a good cadence is an integral part of riding fast and efficiently. Try as much as possible to ride with a high cadence. If you are riding with a high cadence in an easy gear, pedalling is going to tax your cardiovascular and respiratory systems. If you have a strong heart and lungs, you can probably hold a fast cadence for a long period of time. The easy gear means less strain on your skeletal muscles. A high cadence also places less stress and torque on your knees. So if you have bad knees, you’re usually better off spinning faster, in a low gear. When out cycling, particularly solo, always carry your Hong Kong ID with you, as well as some cash in case you have a problem with your bike and need to jump in a taxi. Also, just as a precaution, let someone know how long you intend to be out riding – and your intended route. Make sure your bike is mechanically sound and well maintained. To get the most out of it, check with a certified bike fitter. Do make sure too that you have the appropriate tyre
pressure, but don’t be afraid to drop it if the road surface is starting to get a little slick.
Top technical tips The way you ride is all important. Keep your head up, and relax your elbows, shoulders and hands slightly. Change your hand position on the bars every few minutes; this will help you produce the necessary power when slicing through a head wind or climbing a steep hill. And pedal with flat feet so you can get on the pedals early. Perhaps the most important thing to improve a rider's comfort is the position of the saddle. Having a saddle flat to slightly up will keep you from sliding to the front, and provide you with the necessary support. You'll also notice all that pressure on your hands, neck and back gets alleviated a bit. When descending a big hill shift your weight back and look far ahead. While climbing, if you need to stand, shift up a gear to compensate for the lower cadence and stand up smoothly keeping a steady pressure on the pedals. This will keep you from moving backward relative to the rider behind you. Apply the opposite technique when changing to a sitting position. Downshift and keep a steady pressure on the pedals. It takes a little practice, but your riding buddies will be glad you spent the time learning how to do it right. When riding in a bunch, do not overlap wheels and be sure to signal all intentions early. Whether you’re cycling solo or in a pack, avoid sudden changes of speed. Keep everything except the thrill of the ride predictable.
Karen Fairley is a director of Sports World – the one-stop biking store now in DB North Plaza. Sports World stocks an impressive variety of pumps, tyres, lights, helmets and other cycling-related accessories. It also offers a full bike-maintenance service. You can contact Karen at karen@sportsworld.hk.
Cycling to end multiple sclerosis Erich Felbabel, pro-triathlete sponsored by Sports World
Find more on local sports activities
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November 2012
In July, 19-year-old Zachary Nevin (formerly of DB) cycled across Canada with two friends Christopher Schrader and Adrian Odio Cortes to make a stand against multiple sclerosis. The team completed the 6,000-kilometre distance in one month, cycling roughly 200 kilometres a day – across the Rocky Mountains, through the Prairies, over the Canadian Shield and finally into the Maritimes. Find out more at www.cyclingtoendms.com.
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STYLE
substance
over style
Got a flat for rent in DB? There are ways to maximise its market appeal, but aiming for the height of home fashion isn’t among them, says Elizabeth Kerr
W
e all have our tastes and demands and personal quirks. She likes her steak medium and he likes his well done (even though that’s just wrong). Some of us can’t abide synthetic fabrics, while others couldn’t live without the ease of a dry cleaner-free wardrobe. Rubber thingy on the end of your toothbrush or not? Needless to say, such preferences extend to our homes. Even with the work-heavy lives most families lead, up to two-thirds of our time can be spent at home on any given day, sometimes more. You want it to look nice. Research by most of the high-end international property agencies represented in Hong Kong – Savills, Colliers, Knight Frank, Jones Lang LaSalle and so on – rarely lumps Discovery Bay in with the SAR’s premier residential locations. As far as pricing is considered, it sits squarely between the mass market and the luxury sector. This is something of an enigma given that the area’s most prominent features (beaches, greenery, relatively lowdensity planning and limited traffic) are precisely what drive
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rents and sales prices up in Mid-Levels and Island South. The issue for DB is its relative inaccessibility, though that’s arguably an advantage too.
Know your market You could have drywall and bare wires hanging from the ceiling, and still rent your flat out for a hefty price if, say, it came with a really big private terrace. But back in the real world, if you are considering buying to rent, there are some practicalities worth considering. The first thing to keep in mind is the make-up of the local rental market. “I think there are a lot of families in DB, certainly a larger proportion than other areas of Hong Kong,” notes Brian King, director of Headland Homes. Properties with a number of bedrooms and bathrooms would therefore seem a good bet. Large agencies like Colliers agree with Brian; DB leans towards families with young children and very often pets, and its expatriate residents frequently require creature comforts and environments similar to those they have left
STYLE
A practical, modern kitchen will always appeal to tenants (www.furniture@trendzone.com)
behind. Rare is the American, Canadian or Australian who will suffer a lack of outdoor space for barbeques, or settle for archaic or poorly functioning fixtures and fittings. Potential investors should also bear in mind the types of properties that attract renters to DB. Those who have just relocated here prefer apartments facing the water near the pier – in villages such as La Costa and Hillgrove. People also favour prime developments like Chianti and Siena Two. “Beach Village is still very popular as it is in close proximity to the pier, DB Plaza and so on. And it can be accessed by foot without the need for a bus,” says Brian. “Also Siena One is popular because of its proximity to Discovery College.”
Prioritise practical design But there’s much more to a successful rental than simply location. Style matters. For better or worse, the cosmetic touches count and they can often be an indicator of what lies beneath. “It is no secret that a nicely renovated property will attract renters over a tired looking one,” Brian states.
The sleeker and more modern the better when it comes to kitchens and bathrooms; new, large windows are a bonus. A properly finished outdoor space is a definite plus. But that’s about as far as it goes. Intensely novel styling is best avoided. Decor that’s too individualised can be a problem. It’s advisable to create a plain, white-walled backdrop lined with unobtrusive, durable flooring. Potential tenants may be put off by anything more radical or colourful. The personal style preference is what makes unfurnished flats the better option as well. Simply put, the furniture you choose may not appeal. Long-term renters will also want the option to move in with their own stuff. Built-in cabinetry, for example, may seem like a boon in storage-lean Hong Kong, but immovable items are often a deal breaker when potential tenants have near and dear cabinets of their own. “Most rentals are unfurnished. Let’s face it – people want to sleep in their own beds. Sometimes landlords
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STYLE
It’s worth spending money on a simple yet stylish bathroom (www.bathroomhunter.co.uk)
do have them furnished but there are not that many,” says Brian. Brian is a believer in the invisible touches. As omnipresent as it seems to be, broadband internet is an unusual inclusion because of service provider contract demands, but perks like recreation club memberships are popular.
Provide some services If you are looking to rent out an apartment short term – 28 days being the legal minimum – there are different requirements. “Short-term lets come fully inclusive of furniture and utilities, and there is growing demand for this,” Brian points out.
Decorating tips for landlords 1. When you are decorating keep your colours light and bright, for example matte-white walls and ceilings, except in the kitchen and bathroom. This provides a clean, blank canvas, and will also make the touch-up procedure much easier. 2. Lay the same flooring throughout the property apart from in the bathroom. This allows rooms to flow into each other. An unobtrusive wood or laminate floor will be easiest to maintain. 3. Keep kitchens practical, modern and bright. Avoid work sur faces that damage easily, and install splash backs for sink and cooking area to protect from grease and general dirt. 4. Clean, white bathroom suites always look the part. Position plenty of splash-back areas especially around the shower, and pay special attention to the fixtures and fittings.
This newfound demand is based on a host of reasons: short stays are ideal for those who want to try DB before renting long term or purchasing; for those waiting for families to arrive from overseas; and also for people transiting Hong Kong who are fed up with staying in city hotels.
Find it
For these reasons, too, short-term serviced rentals are on the rise. Here, it’s clear that landlords need not only kit out the entire flat stylishly but also consider the concept of service. As Brian sees it, “Everything can be negotiated. So if cleaning is required during the lease period it will be included but paid for.”
• Casa, 2914 2987, info@casa-db.com • Headland Homes, 2987 2088, www.headlandhomes.com • Home Solutions, 3483 5003, www.homesolutions.com.hk • Lifestyle Homes, 2914 0888, www.lifestylehomes.com.hk
People who need a serviced apartment are probably better off in the city, where there are more to choose from. But then, in town, there are far fewer parks and trails – and ultimately that’s what Discovery Bay continues to offer. Styling can wait.
Find more on DB-friendly design
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A flat with a smart outdoor area will seldom be unoccupied (www.remodelista.com)
November 2012
For short-term lets and DB agent listings go to www.arounddb.com. We feature properties listed by Casa, Headland Homes, Home Solutions, Hong Kong Boats and Homes, Lifestyle Homes, Lifestyle Properties and more.
www.arounddb.com
NOVEMBER 2012 HK HAPPENINGS
What's
new
around
If you love PiP –
Hong
Kong
Five-star
don’t miss Xmas shopping Clockenflap! Make sure you get your tickets well in advance for Hong Kong’s big-name outdoor rock festival, Clockenflap. It disappeared for a few years, was back last year at the grassy and as yet undeveloped site of the promised West Kowloon Cultural District, where it will be staged again over the weekend of December 1. International headliners include Primal Scream and De La Soul. Local DB resident Sam Ferrer and his super-cool, 13-piece jazz/ funk band Shaolin Fez will also be wowing the audience. Last year Clockenflap was free; this year it’s not – except for kids under 12, accompanied by an adult. There’ll also be a film tent and outdoor artwork displays. For tickets for one or both days, and more information go to www.clockenflap.com.
Don’t miss the 2012 Prestige Christmas Gift Fairs at The Conrad Hong Kong in Admiralty November 12, November 27 and December 10. Due to the range of goods on offer, smart shoppers Festive fantasia in the Conrad ballroom will save time, money and effort when stocking up for Xmas. This year sees over 200 innovative entrepreneurs from around the world presenting a comprehensive array of new and different gifts. Be sure to retain your fair shopping bag to qualify for a 15 percent discount on your refreshments as you relax in the hotel’s Lobby Lounge on the day of your visit. To find out more visit www.prestigefairs.hk, or turn to page 13.
Hot diggety dogs! Rock out in the West Kowloon Cultural District Would you believe hot dogs at Lane Crawford?
Jennifer Palor and DBer Sam Ferrer of Shaolin Fez will headline
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The humble hot dog gets a luxe take at The Frank. It’s happened to the hamburger already, so why not? Recently launched in Lane Crawford’s LAB Concept, The Frank provides specially made franks and sausages in baked-daily buns, with quality relishes. Most popular hot dogs are the Coney Island (with house-made chili sauce, mustard and raw onion) and the New Yorker (with a classic ketchup, mustard, relish and onion combo). The Bavarian features German sausage with mustard, gerkin and sauerkraut, and Asia gets a look-in with The Korean, a hot dog served with specially concocted spicy mayonnaise, fried garlic chips and kimchee. Try for yourself at Queensway Plaza, 93 Queensway, Admiralty. Call 2640 9111.
NOVEMBER 2012 HK HAPPENINGS
C o m p i l e d b y A n d re w D e m b i n a
See Sting
play live As part of Sting's 2011-2012 Back to Bass world tour, the world-famous soloist and former frontman of the allBrit, 1970s-founded new-wave band The Sting back with his bass Police will perform stripped-down versions of his greatest hits, on December 2. He will be accompanied by a five-piece band, performing at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Hall. The tour has been garnering great reviews in Europe, the US and South Africa. Visit the official website: www.sting.com; and for ticket enquiries visit www.hkticketing.com.
Best of
British beauty
Deco Darling red lipstick – very 1920s
A treat for
chocoholics
Prestigious Belgian chocolatier, Godiva recently premiered its Single Origins Collection using the cocoa beans from four different regions: Costa Rica, Venezuela, Ecuador and Uganda. The result: what it calls four ‘different unique chocolate aromas’. Mouth-wateringly Belgian This new collection is made only from cocoa beans that can be traced back to one specific country, region or plantation. Godiva’s soft-centred ganache or mousse Single Origins’ chocolates are made to bring out the full-flavoured milk and dark notes. They range from 38 to 80 percent cocoa content with a mix of textures. Find more information on these, and the location of local outlets at www.godiva.com.hk.
Find local event updates
Autumn shades created by Lisa Eldridge
Women, raise a cheer – British cosmetics brand Boots arrived on Hong Kong shores and shelves last month. Boots’ ranges now available at selected Mannings (including the store at the airport) are No.7, Botanics and Champneys Spa. Boots is of course almost as ubiquitous as the pub in Britain, and everyone (including Gwyneth Paltrow) raves about its high quality, superbly affordable cosmetics, moisturisers and cleansers. Check out the Boots No.7 Deco Darling Collection, inspired by Baz Luhrmann's new film version of The Great Gatsby, and created by celebrity makeup artist Lisa Eldridge, known for her work with luxury labels including Chanel. For the location of local stores, visit www.boots.com/hk.
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DB FACES
COMPETITION
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If you'd like us to consider your photos for DB Faces, email them to info@arounddb.com (subject line: db faces). Around DB accepts no liability relating to the photos sent. Find more familiar local faces @ www.arounddb.com
NAME THIS MOVIE TO WIN GREAT PRIZES FROM UNCLE RUSS! 1. Released in 1922, it was inspired by Bram Stoker’s Dracula. 2. It’s a classic German Expressionist horror. 3. Watch out for the superimposed images and odd camera angles. 4. F.W. Murnau directs. 5. Max Schreck plays the truly terrifying Count Orlok.
Hot flick (www.fotopedia.com)
Y
Congratulations to last month’s winner Scott Thoreau. Please contact our office on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.
our challenge this month is to name the movie pictured in the still above. We’ve provided a couple of clues to help you. The prize is a complimentary drink at Uncle Russ in DB Plaza every day for a week. For your chance to win, click on the competitions link on the sidebar at www.arounddb.com (homepage). You have until November 10 to submit your answers. Good luck!
S
Who am I? KayeKaye Khemlani (PIBA No. 0032-009006), a native English-speaking insurance advisor, with a strong presence in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong.
My thoughts I understand we all go through different stages of life and so do our insurance needs. But the mandatory insurances required by the HK Government (including domestichelper insurance, house insurance, automobile coverage and life insurance), are always worth due diligence. This month, I want to wake you up to some things you may not have considered about your home insurance policies.
Home insurance 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. Here are five things you will want to consider and know about: 1. Shop around: When you receive your annual renewal statement, check to see if you can snag a better deal elsewhere. Consider moving your auto policy too; bundling home and auto coverage with the same insurer can cut your total premiums. 2. You may have too much coverage. It’s common for policies to contain inflationprotection provisions that automatically increase your coverage amount. You may want to adjust your coverage amount to a more realistic figure.. 3. Small claims can cost you, too. Go with the highest deductible you can afford and bank the savings to cover the cost of minor repairs. Filing a claim for every broken window or leaky pipe makes for excessively high premiums. Better to save your home cover for the really big things like fire and theft and typhoons 4. Your home policy is the correct way to protect all your valuables like jewellry, watches, laptops, tablets, mobiles etc all over the world, most people wrongly assume that your travel policy protects these items… it doesn’t, its your home policy that gets to have the expensive stuff tacked on it
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 PINK 2012
Thank you to all volunteers and sponsors. See you again next year!
Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY AUSKICK, DISCOVERY COLLEGE is based on the Auskick programme and caters for children of all skill levels & from any football code. Email kirstydavies3015@gmail.com, or visit www.auskick-hk.com DB ANGELS FOOTBALL CLUB The first girls-only football club in DB. For more information, visit www.dbangelsfc.hk DBEES ICE HOCKEY We are committed to the development of youth ice hockey in Hong Kong. For children age 5 & up. Visit www.dbeeshockey.com
COMMUNITY DB PIRATES RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB We offer Under 6 through to senior team rugby, and netball. To join, visit www.dbpirates.com DB TIGERS BASEBALL CLUB For children age 5 to 13. To find out more, visit www.dbtigers.com SOS LANKA ACTION works to alleviate the plight of the poor and destitute in Sri Lanka, in the most direct way. Contact Bernadette on 2983 8744, bernie@sos-lanka-action. org, or visit www.sos-lanka-action.org
LANTAU BOAT CLUB caters for non-powered water-based activities, including catamarans, dinghies, canoes, coastal-rowing boats & windsurfs. It has a thriving paddling section, the Lantau Island Outrigger Canoe Club, & a coastal-rowing section, the Lantau Island Rowing Club. Visit www.lantauboatclub.com
LA LECHE LEAGUE is a non-profit, non-sectarian organisation dedicated to providing support, encouragement & information to women who want to breastfeed. Contact Sandrine on 5183 1979, lllhk@hotmail.com, or visit www.lllhk.org
ROCKY NEEDS YOU! DB resident Rocky Perez, a Filipino musician, father & husband, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 NonHodgkins Lymphoma. After having a lung removed, he is now in desperate need of a bone marrow transplant. Please register with the Hong Kong Bone Marrow Registry to see if you are a match. Call 2710 1206 to find out where to go. (All you are required to do at this stage is have a blood test.)
DO YOU NEED A MESSENGER? Indian male, a Lantau resident, is looking for work as a local courier/ messenger. Old but able & fast walking, fluent in Cantonese & hardworking. Call Michael on 9145 6731
EMPLOYMENT
For employment, helpers, second-hand goods, local businesses and more! Join your community online @
www.arounddb.com
FINANCE & INSURANCE
AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS
Need to lodge your Australian tax return? If you are an expat or collect rental from Australian property, you must lodge an annual return. Let us do it for you here in Hong Kong. Contact Dwight Stuchbery, Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, dwight@smats.net, or visit www.smats.net
WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am
CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME & RDB TEENS
Piano Tuning & Repair - Japan qualified – skilled piano tuner in DB We can offer professional advice and services on all piano matters;
One of the keys to piano maintenance is - How to keep your piano in good condition with a subtropical climate www.88keys.com.hk E-mail: info@88keys.com.hk Tel : 9687 0726
NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO? Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counselors Call 2523 8979 Now for Appointment http://www.resourcecounselling.org Serving the community over 35 years A Member Agency of the Community Chest
Pastor James Buckner Tel: 2987 7061 wwww.dbicc.org
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Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com FINANCE & INSURANCE
DO YOU HAVE AN AUSTRALIAN OR NEW ZEALAND PASSPORT?
Are you interested in saving 30-50% off your Life, Critical Illness & Income Protection insurance premiums? For a no-obligation quote, contact Alex on 9365 8409, alex.walker@f-p.hk CIB License: 02018
HOME & REPAIRS
KIDS
KIDS
EXPERT MOVER
EARLY ADVENTURES PARTY TIME!
MIDGET GEMS RENTAL
• Packing & moving • Cargo collection • Disposal service • Handyman services • Packing material supplies • Storage, with humidity control Professional quality service at a low rate. Contact 2566 4799, sales@expertmover.hk, or visit www.expertmover.hk
KIDS
HEALTH & WELL-BEING
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 Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk
Need a venue for a party? Ideal playgroup environment with toys & activities. For further information, please call 9511 2107
PETS GEMS OCCASIONS
Looking for that perfect party venue for your little gem? A colourful, safe & fun environment with toys & dress-up clothes. We can provide an entertainer. We also tidy up! Please contact 9176 2990, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com
Established playgroup for children from 2 to 4 years. Morning sessions with afternoons coming soon. A wonderful environment where children learn through play with our qualified & experienced teachers. Also offering Bilingual Gems, afternoon sessions in German & Mandarin. Please contact 2987 0272, info@midgetgemskidsclub.com, or visit www.midgetgemskidsclub.com
TRAVEL 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
BOTULINUM TOXIN A MASSETER MUSCLE V-SHAPE FACE
French Kindergarten and Education Centre open for registration for school year 2012-13. Afternoon classes available for K2 & K3 children. Special: ‘Le Club des Artistes’ for 2-3 years old is back and open for registration.
FOREHEAD WRINKLES
RESTYLANE® FILL LINES AND WRINKLES
SCULPTRA® REPLACING LOST COLLAGEN
LATISSE®
For more information, please call 6710 0391 or email us at info@la-petite-enfance.com
GROW EYELASHES LONGER, FULLER, DARKER.
Medicglow Tel: 2522 -2205/ 5499 -1288
11/F , 60 Wellington Street , Central , HK www.medicglow.com www.medicglow.com medicglow@gmail.com
SINCE 1997
OUR SERVICES DOG & CAT GROOMING ( BY APPOINTMENT ) PET FOOD & ACCESSORIES SUPPLIES CAT SITTING SERVICE FREE DAILY DELIVERY Ground floor 11B, Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay (next to Island Vet) Tel: 2987 0428 / Fax : 2914 1313 / E-mail : petsgallerydb@yahoo.com.hk Open from 9:00 am till 7:30 pm (Mon - Sun)
November 2012
WOWOW SALON!
Looking good & feeling great from head to tail? More than just a grooming salon, we provide dog-sitting, dog-walking & dog-training services. Please call Kelvin on 6038 9121
MIDGET GEMS KIDS’ CLUB
First time visit only
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Have an idea for a children’s business? We have a clubroom available for rent, afternoon time slots. Please call Koren on 9176 2990
CONCORDE TRAVEL CONSULTANTS
Leisure travel specialists since 1978. Licence No. 350343. Call 2526 3391, or visit www.concorde-travel.com
Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com TUITION & COURSES
CHINESE (MANDARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH Personal Professional Tutoring Service. • Curriculum: HSK, IB, GCSE, SAT • ESF & all international schools, Year 1 to 13 • For students & adults (homework/ exams/ business) • Mother-tongue Chinese tutors from the PRC. (Levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) • Mathematics tutors (UK B SC) • Native English tutors. (MA in Education, specialising in Early Childhood Stage) Contact 9107 5655, gracias8@hotmail.com, or visit www.chinesemandarinsite.com
MANDARIN CHINESE LESSONS
• For children & adults; small groups or individuals • Any level / place / purpose Call DB Mandarin Room on 6071 9643, or visit http://tclearning.sinacool.com
TUITION & COURSES
PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL LIFE COACHING SERVICES FOR CHILDREN
Fun, Effective and Purely Organic! The only side effects are good health and hot body! Outdoor Group Fitness Classes. $1,500 for 10 sessions, you can’t afford not to do them!
Programme designed by our specialist (Early Childhood Stage, MA in Education) • 12-lesson programme • Children age 6 to 16 • Solve problems • Increase awareness • Improve self control • Express anger & anxiety • Handle stress • Build up self esteem Please contact 9107 5655, gracias8@hotmail.com
Private and Shared Personal Training from $500 an hour (our trainers will come to you).
DB Classes starting soon! Tel: (852) 6902 2250 Email: fitness@impactfitness.com.hk www.impactfitness.com.hk
MATHEMATICS (GCSE, AS, SAT, IB, GMAT, ETC.) & ENGLISH TUITION
More New Mandarin programs! (2-14Y) Mandarin Nursery New Mandarin for Teens Speak Mandarin More Classes for Little Mandarin
Offered by a London University graduate (First-Class Honours). Experienced in teaching adults, ESF & international school students. Call 9121 0389
All in Mandarin! Limited spaces, enroll now! Tel : 2480 3909 Venue: LG 01, Office Block One, North Plaza Email: db@mandarinformunchkins.com
First Class Artificial Grass
Tel: +852 2393 3350 info@moderato.hk www.moderato.hk
MODERATO
November 2012
Flooring Systems
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Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com
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November 2012
Post free classifieds @ www.arounddb.com PROPERTY DB
PROPERTY DB
SHORT-TERM LET
DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS
MODERN FLAT FOR SHORT- OR MEDIUM-TERM RENTAL
NEW SHORT- OR LONG-TERM RENTAL
Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony. Luxuriously furnished, with TV, cable & broadband. Panoramic harbour views & short walk to pier. Contact Brian on 9098 6951, brian@headlandhomes.hk
Fully furnished, 1 bed plus study with extra beds & fully equipped kitchen. Sleeps 4. Broadband, wi-fi, DVD, LCD TV & split A/C. Linen & towels provided. Serviced twice a week. Contact 6475 2035, sharmilaproperty@ gmail.com or visit www.dbayhillsuites.com
GREENDALE COURT RENTAL
Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525
LUXURY MODERN FLATS TO LET
For lease. Fully furnished 1-2-bed apartments with beautiful decor, wi-fi & broadband. Well-equipped kitchen, luxurious bedding, weekly cleaning service. Contact Cherry on 2987 2626, cherry@appletravel.com
Greenery Court, 1-bedroom flat with deluxe renovation. Modern & fully furnished with internet, 37’’ LCD TV & DVD. Contact Sandy on 9654 8862, sandylamdb@yahoo.com.hk
NICE SHORT-TERM RENTAL
Newly renovated studio flat with open kitchen, 5 minutes to pier. Fully furnished, with cable TV & broadband. Contact 2987 2468, dbshortlet@yahoo.com.hk
Short- or medium-term rental at Siena 2. 600’ 1-bed flats with sea views, near the North Plaza, Club Siena & tunnel. Serviced & fully furnished with washer/ dryer, bed linen & kitchenware. Plus wi-fi, broadband, blue-ray & home theatre. Contact 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com
STUDIO FOR SHORT-TERM LET
LUXURIOUS 1-BED FOR LEASE
STYLISH SHORT-TERM RENTAL
Newly renovated, 550’ flat on a high floor with split-type A/C. Fully equipped with DVD & free wi-fi. Bedding & towels provided. Weekly cleaning available. Email dbaygreenish@gmail.com
Comfortable, nicely decorated studio, close to DB Plaza & pier, with fully equipped kitchen. 37” TV, DVD, wi-fi, linens & towels provided. Contact 9190 7348, niceroom_db@yahoo.com.hk
Fully furnished, with cable TV, DVD, wi-fi. All linens & towels provided. Contact 9159 2476, sweet_castillo2001@yahoo.com
FULLY FURNISHED 1-BED RENTAL
Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view. Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished. Call Tiareti on 9732 8985
CHERISH COURT TO LET
Fully furnished 2-bedroom, newly renovated flat. Tranquil with sea & Disneyland view, & wi-fi. Photos available. Contact Jacqueline at 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com
Search 1000’s of DB property listings! Upload your own property listings!
All at www.arounddb.com PROPERTY OVERSEAS
FLAT FOR RENT
AUSTRALIAN PROPERTY
Bright, fully furnished flat, sleeps 4. Fully equipped kitchen, plus wi-fi & broadband. Towels & linens provided. Minimum stay 1 month. Email dbstay4@yahoo.com
Everything you need to know about buying a property in Australia. Information on property markets, taxation, finance, migration & legal. Free online at www.aussieproperty.com
RENOVATED MODERN EXECUTIVE FLAT FOR RENT
FRENCH VILLA FOR RENT
550’ 1-bed apartment. Quiet, on a high floor, with mountain view. Fully furnished with open-plan kitchen. Well-equipped with LCD TV, broadband, telephone & wi-fi. Contact 6680 2007, greenmountain123@gmail.com
2-BED APARTMENT FOR RENT
At Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished. Contact 9108 5525
High-quality villa with magnificent sea views, 5 bedrooms & a large swimming pool. Situated in the Calanques de Cassis National Park near Marseille. For more details go to k6marbel@gmail.com
RENTAL IN THE FRENCH ALPS
Secluded 2-bed duplex on the ski slopes of Les Arcs Paradiski in the French Alps. Sleeps 6/ 7. Find out more at k6marbel@gmail.com
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SL NUMBERS
Your ultimate guide in South Lantau
TOP RESTAURANTS I N
S O U T H
L A N T A U
BAHCE - TURKISH RESTAURANT 19 Mui Wo Centre, Mui Wo, 2984 0222 Conveniently located at the Mui Wo ferry pier, Bahce offers everyone’s favourite Middle-Eastern dishes such as hummus, filo triangles filled with cheese and spinach, and kebabs.
CASA BRASIL GA Silver Centre Building, Mui Wo, 2984 7471; casabrasil.hk@gmail.com New in Mui Wo, Casa Brasil provides a great introduction to classic Brazilian cuisine such as feijoda, seafood muqueca and cheese bread. It provides catering and takeaway services.
CHINA BEAR G/F Mui Wo Centre, 3 Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo, 2984 9720 A little like a 1950s American-style milk bar (on the waterfront), the China Bear is a great place to unwind with snacks and maybe even a specialty schnapps, or Strongbow cider.
DEER HORN RESTAURANT & BAR G11 Mui Wo Centre, 3 Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo, 3484 3095; deerhornlantau@gmail.com Opened last year, a short walk from the pier, Deer Horn offers authentic Nepalese dishes prepared by the Nepali owners Robinson and Pushpa Rai.
ESPACE ELASTIQUE 57 Kat Hing Street, Tai O, www.espaceelastique.com.hk Espace Elastique (pronounced spas elastic) boasts charming boutique-hotel accommodation and an art gallery plus a simply elegant café.
HIGH TIDE THAI RESTAURANT Lower Cheung Sha Beach, 2980 3002; www.hightidehk.com At High Tide chef Sukjai, from Udon Thani province in north-east Thailand, uses herbs and spices grown in his own kitchen garden.
LANTANA ITALIAN BISTRO Lower Cheung Sha Beach, 6331 8974 Lantana has a relaxed holiday vibe, and it’s right on the beach. The Italian cuisine is really authentic – pizzas are a specialty – and the staff are friendly.
OOH LA LA! BEACH RESTAURANT & BAR Pui O Beach, 2984 2588; www.oohlala-hk.com The menu comprises Mediterranean-style dishes and barbeques at this familyfriendly beach bar. Ooh La La! also caters to private and corporate events.
PALM BEACH CLUB Cheung Sha Beach, 2980 4822; www.palmbeach.com.hk At Palm Beach Club, a relaxing café and watersports’ club, there’s a 3,000-square-foot shaded lounge area, plus a reading corner and BBQ pit.
THE STOEP 32 Lower Cheung Sha Village, 2980 2699 This lovely seaside restaurant is hugely popular and always bustling, and it boasts a lovely décor. The Stoep’s Mediterranean menu is a real treat, as is the South African BBQ.
HEALTH & WELL-BEING Impact Fitness Jill Marshall Pilates South Lantau Paddle Club Tony’s Salon
9473 3976 9708 0187 6770 1462 2984 0990
HOME & REPAIRS Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering Mantech Electrical Strong Engineering Wah Sing AV Company
2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 2819 6823 9373 0792 2984 0587
HOTELS Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel
2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383
LEARNING CENTRES Buddhist Fat Ho College Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten
2985 5150 2984 0069 2984 0302 3689 6709 2984 0006
PROPERTY AGENCIES Easy Reach Real Estate Home Solutions Proper Trip Real Estate
2984 0618 3483 5003 2984 1666
RESTAURANTS & BARS Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bombay Café Casa Brasil Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear
2984 0222 2984 1847 2984 7471 2984 0498 2984 9720
SL NUMBERS RESTAURANTS & BARS Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar High Tide Restaurant La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Rome Restaurant Sun Fat Restaurant Tak Chai Kee Seafood The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep
3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8933 6331 8974 2984 7982 2984 0418 2984 1265 2983 8931 2980 2582 9160 5986 2980 2699
RETAIL Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Bizzie Lizzie (childrens clothes and toys) Friendly Bike Shop Park ‘N’ Shop Red Hall Chinese Antiques Renge House (clothes & accessories) The Red Lantern Wellcome
2134 1234 2984 2227 2984 2278 2984 0249 2988 1368 2406 8122 2987 0099 2984 7884
SERVICES & OTHERS Hop Sing Automobile Jumping Castles SPCA Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio) Zoe Lyle Photography
2984 1410 9662 1747 2984 0060 9025 3949 9062 0148 6351 8923 9834 5498
TRANSPORTATION Lee Hing Loong Hon Kee Transportation Company Lantau Tours New Lantau Bus Company Sun Rising Moving Company
Feijoada, Seafood Muqueca, Cheese Bread and many more.. Private Bookings - Kit for parties - Takeaway - Catering Shop A, G / F, Silver Centre Building, Mui Wo - Lantau Island Open: Monday to Friday 2 pm to 10:30 pm Saturday and Sunday 12 pm to 10:30 pm
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Join your community live @ www.arounddb.com Photo by Terry Chow
Tel: 2984 7471
casabrasil.hk @ gmail.com
Your ultimate guide in DB
DB NUMBERS COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza BMSE, North Plaza Catholic Church (Trinity Chapel) DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Healthcare Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza
LEARNING CENTRES
HOME 2987 0855 2259 3422 2988 1515 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 2666 6183 2834 7276 2987 7575 2987 9003 2259 3422
Marc James Design, North Plaza Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Season Art Kitchen Perfection Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre
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HK School of Highland Dance Highland Dance classes now available at MI Studio.Teacher qualified by the SDTA. All ages welcome Tel: 9123 0863 Email: highlanddancehk@gmail.com
LEARNING CENTRES
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
Online Boutique for Newborns & Infants Tel: 5600-7605, info@lullabylayette.com www.lullabylayette.com
L’Ecole Francaise de Discovery Bay
Hands-on classes specially tailored for children, teens & adults
Prince & Princess
Kids Wear & Accessories Shop G13B, G/F., North Plaza Tel: 2947 9228 Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm www.prince-princess.com.hk
rush yoga ∙ fitness ∙ swim G/F, G35, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay Tel: 2526 0720 Mon–Sun: 10:30am to 7:30pm www.rush.com.hk
Sunwood by Design International Bodyfit Swimwear Exercise and Yoga Wear Tel: 6626 5470 www.sunwood-by-design.com
2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098
DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven Convenience Store 7-Eleven Food Kiosk Fusion by PARKnSHOP GNC Mannings Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome
Apron Strings
Tues & Wed classes at Discovery College 4 to 12 yrs - 2 fully costumed performances a year Tel: 8122 9475 Email: admin@actingantics.com www.actingantics.com
Lullaby Layette
In Style Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic Start-rite shoes
Musical Drama – Acting – Musical Theatre
Kindergarten, French classes and tutorial services. French kindergarten open for registration for school year 2012-13 Accepting registration for 2011-12 LG-05, DB North Plaza Tel: 6710 0391 Email: info@la-petite-enfance.com
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FINANCIAL SERVICES
Tel: 9735 5724 www.apronstrings.com.hk
Little Explorers A fun place for little ones to play and have loads of fun, fun, fun!
Bayview House of Children
Early Childhood Educational Center Programmes from 18 months to 6 years old For details call Ramesha on 6114 2436 ramesha@bayview.hk
Accounting & Taxation, Business & Operation Consulting, China Trade Advisory, Company Formation & Secretarial, Immigration Assistance Tel: 2851 8081, info@alcamat.com, www.alcamat.com
2233 3000 2822 3927 2682 1210 2987 1851
HOME
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November 2012
Email: littleexplorers@team-fear.com
Island Dance
Playgroups, parties, art-jamming and art classes for all ages!
Freestyle, Jazz, Ballet & Tap
Tel: 2325 3999
www.islanddance.com.hk
Tel: 2987 1571
Address: LG-10, Office Block One, DB North Plaza. www.colourstormartcentre.com
Midget Gems Kid’s Club Established playgroup for children 2-4 years
Crafty Babes
Craftybabes is a fun, informal and creative playgroup for newborn to 24 months. Tel: 9239 6447 Email: crafty.babes@hotmail.com, www.craftybabes.com
Discovery Speech Therapy Cabinet d’Orthophonie Clear Communication in French LG-06, Office Block One, DB North Tel: (+852) 8120 7835 info@discoveryspeechtherapy.com
Tel: 2987 0272 info@ midgetgemskidsclub.com www.midgetgemskidsclub.com
Mountainview Montessori Run by Montessori-trained teacher Come and Join the Fun! mountainview_montessori@hotmail.com
Music Together
AlcaMat Financial & Accounting Services Ltd
Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre
Tel: 9327 0507
ColourStorm Art Centre
Dumper Trucks & Daisies
HSBC HSBC Expat Travelex Money Exchange, North Plaza Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd
French classes, specialised and tutorial services Block One, LG6, DB North Plaza Tel: 8191 0813 Email: info@pmcuriehk.com
A Montessori based playgroup programme that focuses on the growth and development of the whole child. From 12 months to 4 years old Tel: 9667 6921 mandy@dumpertrucksanddaisies.com www.dumpertrucksanddaisies.com
First Friends & Second Friends DB’s largest & longest running playgroup Iin Porter 9151 5545 firstsecondfriends@yahoo.com www.firstfriendshk.com
Around DB's December 2012 issue coming out
November 30
Well-established Music and Motion programme from USA since 1987 for 6-months to age 4 Tel: 2325-3999/6055-4443 LG-10, Office Block One, DB North Plaza. Email: musictogether@yahoo.com www.musictogether.com
Playtime Kids DB
Playgroup run by Montessori trained teacher. From 18 months to 4 years. Tel: 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten
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DB NUMBERS SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT
LEARNING CENTRES Discovery Montessori School DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Learning Centre HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Les Petits Lascars de DB SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten Treasure House
2987 1201 2987 4338 9511 2107 2416 3088 2526 8892 2987 8608 2987 0813 2987 8143 2987 4217
MULTIMEDIA Bookazine, DB Ferry Dymocks & Gallery Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd Fun to Read, North Plaza Movieland Pen’n Paper P-Solution The Bookshop
Bo Bo House Toysland
Curves Women’s Fitness Centre Club Siena Discovery Bay
OTHER SERVICES
Tel: 2987 0772 curvesdb@gmail.com www.curves.com
Limousine Rental
Football for 2.5- to 14- year old girls and boys Tel: 2987 4274 www.dragons.hk
Movement Improvement Pilates, yoga, posture & fitness 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk
Apple Travel The Best Travel Agency in DB Tel: 2987 2626
Sportsmanship
Email: cas@appletravel.com
Gymnastics Programs, Health Consultancy, Weight Management & Nutritional Supplements Tel: 2870 3524 www.sportsmanship.usana.com
PetcoDB Grooming & Pet Services Wth Trust, Love & Safe Care For the ones you love Tel: 2914 0382 Email: info@petcoDB.com www.petcoDB.com Amity Shoe Care My Pet Shop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services
2987 4538 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151
REAL-ESTATE AGENCIES
Sports World All your sporting needs right here in DB Tel: 2914 1323 Email: bruce@sportsworld.hk
Club Siena Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club
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TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES
Lifestyle Homes
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RESTAURANTS 22º North Berliner Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Ebeneezer’s First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Ippu Japanese Restaurant Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Sopranos Subway Super Super Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zak’s
Limo service in HK & China pick up from / to DB Tunnel direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport Tel: 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@yahoo.com DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services
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UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES 24-hour Customer Service Hotline China Light & Power Emergency China Light & Power Information Line Discovery Bay Commercial Services Discovery Bay Fire & Ambulance Discovery Bay Management Discovery Bay Medical Services Discovery Bay Office Centre Discovery Bay Police Discovery Bay Post Office Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Report Room San Hing Gas Co Typhoon Signal Enquiries Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department
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WELL-BEING
Body Talk Holistic therapy for illness, stress, sports injury & learning disorders Tel: 6683 5755 angie@bodytalksystem.com.hk www.bodytalksystem.com.hk
Little Miss Green The Party Queen
Tel: 2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Casa Real Estate Ltd Centaline Property Agency Ltd Century 21 Newcourt Realty EPS Property Consultants Ltd Headland Homes Kingsford DB Ltd Land Master Property Midland Realty
2987 4230 2987 7859
TRANSPORT SERVICES
HK Dragons Football Club 2987 1373 2987 8494 2914 2378 3105 3588 2987 7111 2987 8898 2987 1777 2987 9372
TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES
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Eco Party Supplies, Toys, Games & Gifts www.missgreenpartyqueen.com
Child & Family Development Practice Developing potential, exploring possibilities www.childdevelopment.com.hk info@childdevelopement.com.hk
DB Party Lovers For all your party needs in DB Tel: 9132 5249 Email: dbpartylovers@gmail.com www.dbpartylovers.com
Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB Tel: 2987 2266
Penny Scallan Design Unique and individual Tel: 6015 4050 hk@pennyscallan.biz www.pennyscallan.biz
Planting Ideas, Growing Minds. Tel: 2987 2608 soyhongkong@gmail.com www.seedling.com.hk
Stuck on You Label It, Own It, Keep It! Tel: 2549 2245, 2987 2608 sales.hk@stuckonyou.biz www.stuckonyou.biz
Professional Beauty Treatments
Qualified RN & Medical Aesthetics Consultant kittytang@professionals-beauty.com Tel: 5116 1617 www.professionals-beauty.com
The Skin Therapy Centre Fully qualified “International Beauty Spa /wellness trainer” with over 16 yrs experience in the Spa industry offering full range of beauty services here on DB Tel: 9604 6920, 2987 0764 www.theskintherapycentrehk.com Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch Spa Siena
November 2012
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HEALTH Q&A
male wellness month
It’s Movember (the annual, month-long initiative to raise awareness of prostate cancer and other male cancers) and whether or not you are growing a moustache to show your support, you’ll want to hear what Dr Ray Ng of Island Health has to say on the subject What is prostate cancer?
How is the disease detected?
The prostate is a small gland which is approximately the size of a walnut. It is found in front of the rectum and below the bladder and provides the fluid required to mobilise the sperm in the ejaculate. Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow and multiply to become tumours within the prostate area. In many cases, the cancer grows slowly and is self-contained, causing minimal problems. In fact, the majority of men diagnosed with prostate cancer will die of other causes. That said, in a significant number of cases, the cancer can be aggressive and spread throughout the body.
Screening for prostate conditions involves a blood test called the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA). Note that the results of this test can be raised or positive also for benign conditions of the prostate, such as inflammation. The PSA test is recommended in men from age 40 and can be done as part of a routine health screen. If you prefer, a simple rectal examination can be given during a visit to your doctor to feel for any abnormalities on the prostate surface.
Are some men more at risk than others?
Why should I screen regularly? If an aggressive form of prostate cancer is detected early, it can be treated quickly, limiting the opportunity for it to spread and therefore improving the prognosis.
As with all cancers, there are specific factors that can make us more at risk. For prostate cancer, these are What are the treatment options? age, family history, diet and ethnicity. The risk noticeably increases from age If you have had a positive/ raised PSA 50 onwards, however, we recommend result, your doctor will recommend To raise awareness about prostate screening from age 40 especially in the further investigation which may involve cancer, men all over the world now presence of prostatitis (inflammation). If taking a small biopsy from the area. In grow a moustache in November you have a father or brother who has had response to the pathology results from the (www. coloribus.com) prostate cancer, you are at an increased risk. biopsy, a treatment plan will be worked out Men who have close female relatives who have by your doctor, who will explain fully the risks and been diagnosed with breast cancer, which has been benefits. One treatment option is active surveillance, attributed to the breast cancer gene (BRCA), are also more which involves monitoring the disease through regular prone. Statistics show that this illness has the highest investigations. For more aggressive prostate cancer, you will diagnosis and mortality rate amongst African-American usually be advised to have surgery or radiotherapy. men. Men who have a poor diet, which is high in animal fats or low in fruit and vegetables, are also more at risk. Eat lots Are there any supplements proven to reduce of broccoli! my risk?
What are the symptoms? The major symptoms involve difficulty with urinating, for instance, dribbling like a leaky tap rather than flowing-out easily, taking time to initiate the urine flow, needing to get out of bed more frequently than usual to urinate, pain when urinating and/ or blood in the urine. These symptoms are not only specific to prostate cancer, they can also occur with other benign conditions of the prostate. If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your doctor who will determine the cause.
Find more on health-related issues
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November 2012
In the past, Vitamin E and Selenium dietary supplements were thought to reduce the risk of prostate cancer but there have been many studies which have since disproven this. (Unfortunately, the only known effect they have is to burn a hole in your wallet!) Hopefully reading this article will help you better understand prostate cancer and encourage you to arrange your own screenings. You can contact Dr Ray Ng at Island Health on 2987 7575
www.arounddb.com