October 2014 issue

celebrates publishing years in Lantau

O CT 2 014

Join your community online @ www.arounddb.com

Publishers in DB since 2002

oCtoBer 2014

海堤閣 Costa Court

$33K

旭暉閣 JoViaL Court

Gross: 1180’ Saleable: 963’ 3

碧濤軒 CoastLine

Gross: 1446’ Saleable: 1220’

Nicely renovated apartment, spacious living and walking distance to DB plaza and pier.

2

$8.9M/35K

海澄湖畔二段 siena two

$60K

5 2

Gross: 1500’ Saleable: 1314’

Beautifully joined unit, fully provisioned open kitchen. Spacious, bright and airy. Unique.

海燕徑 seaBirD

$42K

$80K

3 2

Lovely lowrise, fully fitted kitchen and in a tranquil location.

悅堤 Positano

$83K

T

EN

G EA

L

SO

Gross: 1388’ Saleable: 1110’ 3

Nicely renovated duplex, modern open kitchen and terrace with amazing sea views.

2

庭安閣 Cherish Court

$4.6M

Gross: 1442’ Saleable: 1442’ 5 3

Saleable: 1691’

Excellently maintained modern lowrise, private terrace, spacious living & ideal for families. Unique.

逸澄閣 PeaCefuL

$5.1M

3 2

Brand new duplex with private swimming pool, exclusive lift lobby. A new standard of luxury living.

海澄湖畔二段 siena two $11.4M/38K

T

EN

G EA

L

SO

Gross: 629’ Saleable: 546’ 2

One of a kind renovation! Open plan kitchen.

A must see!

1

倚濤軒 CrestMont ViLLa

$16.5M

Gross: 800’ Saleable: 581’ 1 1

Gross: 1315’ Saleable: 1020’

Modified from 2 bedrooms to 1 bedroom plus study & lots of storage and built in furniture. A must see

海澄湖畔一段 siena one

$19M

3 2

Full renovation, spacious living, close to Central Park and schools. Good value.

海蜂徑 seaBee

$85K/36M

T

EN

G EA

L

SO

Gross: 1707’ Saleable: 1436’ 3 2

Fully renovated duplex with terraces and a huge roof terrace. Great sea views. Good rental yield.

Gross: 2055’ Saleable: 1633’ 4 3

Nicely renovated duplex, spacious living and modern kitchen. Good investment opportunity. Unique.

Gross: 3100’ Saleable: 2403’ 4 3

Renovated garden house, ample space, and terrace with stunning sea views. A must see!

DO YOU HAVE PROBLEMS WITH • HAIR BREAKAGE? • HAIR LOSS? • CRADLE CAP? • TANGLED HAIR? • BRITTLE HAIR? OI HAIR? • OILY • COLOUR FADING? • DRY SCALP? • ITCHY SCALP? • SPLIT ENDS? • FRIZZ?

IT’S TIME TO DISCOVER

BRAZILS’ BESTKEPT SECRET FOR LUSTROUS HAIR.

COMING SOON TO DISCOVERY BAY!

OCTOBER 2014 FEATURES 34 PROFILE Meet DBer Bianca Fischer of Animals Asia Foundation 38 IN FOCUS Get into edible gardening – grow your own food!

48 FAMILY MATTERS Are you prepared for childbirth?

34

57 MONEY MATTERS Lifestyle funding 66 ESCAPES The Three Gorges river trip, then and now 71 ACTION DB’s adventure racing youth 75 LIFESTYLE How decorative design works in small spaces

REGULARS 38

30 COMPETITIONS Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com 45 MOMENTS How Tung Chung resident, Anita Tomasov shed 46 kilos 63 TALKING POINTS DBer Bruce Pye’s epic swim around Lantau 82 DB FACES Candid community snaps 92 OUT THERE Thoughts on island life

AGENDA 10 IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news 26 ACROSS LANTAU See what’s happening island wide

63

79 HK HAPPENINGS Find fun things to do across the harbour 84 CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, businesses and more 88 PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent

45

89 LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau

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

For the latest Around DB updates, find us on

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celebrates

ON THE COVER

g years publishin u in Lanta

This month, Around DB is celebrating 12 mega publishing years in Lantau

014 O CT 2

Join your

online community

rounddb.com @ www.a

Publishers

in DB since

2002

Cover design by Terry Chow

Twitter and www.arounddb.com

YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY EVENTS!

Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@arounddb.com Editor Rachel Ainsley editor@arounddb.com

For more photos of past events, visit the gallery at www.arounddb.com

Editorial coordinator Hannah Ball hannah@arounddb.com Advertising Lissa Morris lissa@arounddb.com Accounts Beatrice De Magistris accountant@arounddb.com Art direction Terry Chow cckterrychow@gmail.com Photography Baljit Gidwani Illustration Fred Boot Rift Leschinsky Contributors this month Beverly Au Angie Bucu Jane Clyde Graham Elsom Annette M. Houlihan Katrina Raimann (intern) Nina Rossiter (intern) Peter Sherwood Nic Tinworth Kate Whitehead 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.

Photos by Terry Chow

ber 8

Septem

Mid-Autumn FESTIVAL Tai Pak Wan

IN&AROUND DB

BOOKAZINE opening DB North Plaza

ber 20

Septem

www.arounddb.com

AT HOME IN DB

OpenSpace DB, DB North Plaza

ber Septem

4

www.arounddb.com

Open to the public

Don’t miss our next Prestige Fairs at the Conrad HK

Pre-Christmas Gift Parade (Tuesday, 11 November 2014) Christmas Gift Showcase (Monday, 1 December 2014) Christmas Gift Festival (Monday, 15 December 2014)

Preview the gifts at:

www.prestigefairs.hk Organised by:

IN&AROUND DB

YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS!

Photo courtesy of DBRC

CHARITY TENNIS CUP

er 4

Octob

Discovery Bay Recreational Club, DB Plaza At Discovery Bay Recreation Club’s 11th Charity Tennis Cup, starting at 8am, 28 teams of four are competing to raise funds for the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association and Watchdog Early Education Centre. There’s also the court-side carnival, 10am to 5pm, with a bouncy castle, game booths, face-painting, a charity sales stall and refreshment kiosk. Entry is free. Call 2987 7381.

Get your event listed at www.arounddb.com

YROCK DB HEAT Solera, DB Plaza October 11

October 4

STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET

across from Haven Court, 2pm to 4.45pm.

October 4, 11, 12, 18, 25 & 26

www.groomingbydanielle.com

PET ADOPTION DAYS DB Plaza

You can adopt a pet through Hong Kong Paws Foundation (PAWS) every Saturday, 2.30pm to 6pm, starting October 4; or with Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS) on October 12 and 26, 12pm to 4pm. For PAWS, call Kat Cheung on 9485 5188; for PALS, call Jacqui Green on 9197 4371.

BEACH MARKETS

Photo by Baljit Gidwani

October 4, 11, 18 & 25

Tai Pak Wan

Check out DB’s brand-new beach market every Saturday throughout October, from 11am to 10pm (11am to 6pm on October 18). Don’t miss the Oktoberfest-themed markets on October 4 and 11, and the Halloween-themed market on October 25. Visit www.dbbeachmarket.org.

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October 2014

Support local teens in the DB heat of YRock’s International Music Challenge, from 6pm to 9pm.

A place in the final at Tamar Park in Central on October 26 is at stake, as is the ultimate prize of a much-coveted spot at DB’s Picnic in the Park on November 8. Visit www.yrock.com.hk.

SHOP THE HANDMADE HONG KONG bazaar in DB Plaza, 11am to 6pm. www.ddeck.com.hk

October 12

IN&AROUND DB

Halloween CHARITY PARTY DB Plaza

Enjoy spooky game booths and performances at the Halloween Charity Party, organised by the Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council (NAAC), from 10am to 6pm. As well as prizes for the scariest dressed pets, there’s a 30-minute sponsored dog walk. All money raised goes to support NAAC’s work with mentally challenged children. To find out more, call 2259 3422, or email bmse@naac.org.hk.

ber 19

www.traditionalwitchcraft.blogspot.com

DB DOG ATTACKS!

McSorley’s, DB Plaza

www.lorimerkitchen.com

SWIM FOR PFS! Around Lantau

Around DB

Pink Fizz FUNDRAISER

Siena Park

er 25

Octob

This fun, family event, for children age two to 10, celebrates Halloween in a non-frightening way with carnival games and competitions. Kids in the Park, put on by DB Photo courtesy of DBICC Alliance Church and Discovery Bay International Community Church, runs from 2pm to 5pm. You can purchase HK$10 tickets at DB Alliance Church, or by emailing office@dbicc.org.

Octo

Over the past few months, a worrying number of dog attacks have been reported in DB. Young children have been injured, a helper sent to hospital for treatment and a dog killed. Residents are requested to keep their dogs on a leash. If you have a view to express, or story to share, email editor@arounddb.com.

KIDS IN THE PARK

www.wikihow.com

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Octob

Don’t miss Movement Improvement’s Pink Fizz Fundraising Entertainment Evening, raising funds for the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation (HKBCF). The DB fitness studio’s Pink Walk has had to be cancelled this year, but at this event you can take part in a quiz and a charity auction, enjoy a free drink of (pink) bubbly provided by McSorley’s, and listen to live music. To sign up, drop by McSorley’s, or call 2987 8280. To do your bit, visit www.movementimprovement.com.hk; to make a donation to HKBCF, visit www.hkbcf.org.

ber 2 8–Novem October 2

Eighteen-year DB resident and managing director of Sports World, Bruce Pye is swimming 75 kilometres around Lantau, aiming to Photo by Ricardo Casanova raise HK$1 million for Plastic Free Seas (PFS), the DB non-profit committed to reducing marine plastic pollution in Hong Kong. To sponsor Bruce, visit www.justgiving.com/75kmswimchallenge. For other ways to get involved, including beach clean-ups, turn to page 63.

Send us SCARY PHOTOS!

October 31

Around DB

While you’re trick or treating this Halloween, send us a photo of yourself, or your kids! We’ll post it on the Around DB Facebook page for users to vote for their favourite. Most days, we reach up to 10,000 fans! Email info@arounddb.com.

There are prizes to win!

October 2014

www.sodahead.com

13

IN&AROUND DB

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders

NEW IN DB COACH SERU RABENI! DB PIRATES!

Photo courtesy of Chef’s Choice

CHEF’S CHOICE

Fijian Rugby Union star Seru Rabeni has joined the DB Pirates as its new head coach and player! He’ll be heading up coaching across the club, with a particular focus on youth (U13s to U19s) and senior rugby. Six-year DB resident Sally Leonard is coaching the new senior women’s rugby team, while three-year DB resident Ilona van Scheers is training the club’s new mini and senior hockey teams. Visit www.dbpirates.com.

DB North Plaza

Tung Chung resident Sami Verho, founder of the Tung Chung delicatessen Chef ’s Express is opening a second branch, Chef ’s Choice in DB North Plaza at the end of this month. Sami prides himself on supplying top-quality, internationally sourced products, including prime cut steak and fresh, marinated and smoked meat, chicken and seafood, plus antipasti and cheeses. For more information, visit the Chef ’s Express Facebook page, call 6504 4208, or email info@chef-express.hk.

www.arounddb.com

DB FAMILY FARM Siena Park

www.dbpirates.com

If you’re looking for a place to grow your own vegetables, check out DB Family Farm, launching this month. Sponsored

by HKR International, you can rent any one of the 40 plus, 1-metre by 3-metre plots, for four months at a time, for HK$500. The plots are already booked through January 2015, but you can book your space from February 2015 by calling 2238 3601. To find out about other local allotments, turn to page 38.

RYUSHINKAI DOJO

BTOKIDZ

Ryushinkai Dojo (a martial arts training group) follows Gojuryu, the most widely practised form of Karate. It was founded in Hong Kong in 1998, by fifth-Dan Karate master, Andrew Au, and has over 300 members. DB Ryushinkai Dojo, set up by Andrew over the summer, is now open to boys and girls age five and above. Students are offered training, grading and the chance to compete in local tournaments. Visit www.gojuryu.org.hk.

At its opening party on September 21, BtoKidz hosted a children’s party themed celebration. The one-stop shop for children’s products, owned by 20+ year DB resident Jolanda Chan, stocks an exciting range of well-known global brands. A sister branch of Start-rite, which opened in DB Plaza in 2011, BtoKidz’s line of kids’ shoes is particularly attractive. Visit www.btokidz.com.

OpenSpace DB, DB North Plaza

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October 2014

Photo courtesy of Andrew Au

DB North Plaza

www.btokidz.com

ESF SPORTS CAMPS 20 - 25 October 2014 and clinics 9am - 12pm

Join us for our high-energy, fun-filled Autumn Sports Camps.

Move your body, play games, make friends, swim, laugh and have fun during our week-long and Saturday programmes.

Our activities focus on improving gross motor skills and enhancing fundamental abilities in sport. Camps are available for children ages 3 - 11.

Discovery College Kowloon Junior School

Renaissance College South Island School

Swimming Clinics ESF Swimming will be hosting swim clinics during the October break at Discovery College, Renaissance College and South Island School from 1-4pm. All levels will be accommodated including Adult & Child classes.

Basketball Clinics Join ESF Basketball for fast-paced clinics from 1-4pm at Renaissance College, South Island School and Kowloon Junior School. Whether new to the sport or as a veteran looking to build skills on the court, we look forward to seeing you there. Ages 9-15.

Our fun-filled sports camps are running at Discovery College

All of our programmes are open to both ESF & Non ESF students

Football Camp ESF Football will run football camp from 9am-12pm at the incredible KGV artificial pitch in Kowloon. Players will take part in expert skills sessions, as well as mini games and tournaments.

2

YEARS

www.esf.org.hk sports@esf.org.hk Tel

1/2 Page Around DB - Oct Sports Camp.indd 1

2711 1280

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IN&AROUND DB

A decade of CONGRATULATIONS! COMPLETE DEELITE! EMBODY EDUCATION CENTRE! DB Plaza

In June, local fitness studio Embody was certified as a Peak Pilates Education Centre, the only Peak Pilates Education Centre in Hong Kong! Over the weekend of September 5, the studio held its first Peak Pilates Basic Mat course, and more courses for wannabe instructors are planned for 2015. Visit www.embody.hk, or call 6624 8712.

Photo courtesy of HLG

Photo courtesy of Lauren Gordon

LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR!

JUST PUBLISHED!

DB North Plaza

Congratulations to DB-based Harvey Law Group, headed up by DB resident Jean-François Harvey, which won the Immigration Law Firm of the Year Award at the 13th annual Macallan ALB Hong Kong Law Awards in September. Visit www.harveylawcorporation.com.

Photo courtesy of Embody

Be sure to read David Harris Lang’s The Journal of Rabbi Levy Wang, which came out in June. David’s historical fiction, set in 1937, sees three friends endeavour to save a group of Chinese Jews and a valuable jewel from the German and Japanese armies, before the Japanese close China’s borders. You can pick up a copy at Dymocks DB, or on www.amazon.com.

25 YEARS OF CENTURY 21 IN DB DB Plaza

Happy anniversary to Bill Chan and his team at Century 21 Newcourt Realty, who last month celebrated 25 years of operation in Discovery Bay. Launched in DB in 1989 as Newcourt Realty, the company became part of the Century 21 network, one of the world’s largest real-estate companies, in August 1994. Visit www.c21newcourt.com. To read more, turn to page 21.

Photo courtesy of Cindy Reid

Cindy’s BOXING VICTORY!

www.arounddb.com

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October 2014

Cindy Reid, co-owner of fitness studio The HIT Room in DB North Plaza, won her bout in the female, light-weight division of a charity fight night at the InterContinental Hong Kong hotel, Tsim Sha Tsui on September 6. “The first time I sparred in the ring, I was hit hard and I had no idea how to retaliate,” says Cindy. “I cried for about an hour. After that I trained so hard I left nothing to chance on the night.”

IN&AROUND DB

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders

SAVE THE DATE November 3-7

November 8

November 8

PICNIC IN THE PARK

Siena Park and Bayside

Photo by Nicole Woolhouse

BOX OF HOPE!

With Picnic in the Park (PiP), Hong Kong’s largest live music and dance festival just around the corner, the organisers are looking for sponsors, and volunteers to help out. Last year’s event recruited more than 100 volunteers! Funds raised go to the Hong Kong Student Aid Society and Hong Chi Children Home. To do your bit, email pip@picnicintheparkhk.com.

All DB schools

It’s collection week next month for Box of Hope, the annual charity project, which provides underprivileged children in Hong Kong and Asia with useful/ educational gifts, donated by local children and organisations from all over Hong Kong. All schools in DB are once again participating, along with the ESF International Kindergarten, Tsing Yi and Discovery Mind Kindergarten, Discovery Mind Primary School and Sunshine House in Tung Chung. Visit www.boxofhope.org.

Photo by Tracey van Geest

DB 10KM RUN DB Ferry Pier

Photo by Terry Chow

The Discovery Bay 10km Run for Charity, co-organised by DB residents Kobi Janssen and Erin Bowland, is now in its 10th year. You have to be at least 16 years old to compete but if you are too young, or not quite fit enough to race, you can volunteer as a marshal, or show your support by lining the course. Registration before October 31, costs HK$350. Visit www.dbrunforcharity.org.

November 15 & 22

November 16

SCHOOL FAIRS

Discovery College and Discovery Bay International School Now’s the time to book your place at the Discovery College (DC) Family Fun Day, on November 15 and Discovery Bay International School’s (DBIS’) International Food Fair on November 22. Open to the whole community, both these events are packed with commercial and charity stalls, and offer up great music and entertainment. To book a DC stall, email pta@discovery.edu.hk; for DBIS, email awyatt@dbis.edu.hk.

Photo by Paul Christmas

Team FEAR

Throughout DB

Photos by Baljit Gidwani and Emma Cameron

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October 2014

The Team FEAR Junior Challenge, now in its 13th year, is the biggest race of its kind in Asia, and one of the most popular on the DB calendar! The organisers are now looking for 250 marshals to make the event happen. To get involved, visit www.team-fear.com.

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

vin, Kenyan-born runner Owner of the running business Kipmo rotich talks shop and six-year DB resident, Thomas Kip

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

Tell us a little about your business.

We’ve offered outdoor running classes for adults and kids in DB, Tung Chung and elsewhere in Hong Kong since August 2011. We often go to races together so we are a very close-knit running community – everyone motivates each other to keep moving! I also manage elite Kenyan runners who travel through Hong Kong, and where possible, they attend training sessions which inspires the runners I coach.

What is your biggest reward?

Many people can’t run 5 kilometres when they start training with me. Seeing them finish a half or full marathon is a great moment. Also, it’s great when the kids I train join our adult runners in short races. Seeing them trying so hard, all running in their Kipmovin shirts, makes me proud.

Do you enjoy being self-employed?

I enjoy the flexibility, and it’s taught me to be more organised. I’m up early and home late as most of my classes are held before and after work. I’m inspired by Sir Richard Branson. He does what others wouldn’t think to try. My experience and knowledge are in running, so it’s still a challenge to organise things like bookkeeping and finances.

How do you keep your customers interested?

Having group training sessions and mixing up the workouts keeps people coming back.

Running needs little in terms of resources but I have built up some special equipment, like exercise balls, weights, ropes, agility ladders and foam rollers, so that some classes have an element of core and strength training to them.

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

Photos by Tra cey van Geest and courtesy of Kipmovin

I am happy keeping my business small and manageable so that I still have time for my family. I am looking into training school groups, and, in the past, I’ve trained corporate groups, so there are plenty of possibilities. Right now, I’m looking at taking groups of runners from Hong Kong to Kenya for a training camp, with a race at the end of the trip.

Call Kipmovin on 6180 3256, email thomas@kipmovin.com, or visit www.kipmovin.com.

ADVERTORIAL

Century 21 Newcourt Realty celebrates successful years in DB!

“I

set up the company here in 1989 because I’ve always loved DB. It has good quality air, plenty of open space and a pleasant holidaylike feel to it,” Bill Chan, managing director of Century 21 Newcourt Realty told Around DB at the firm’s 25th anniversary party on August 30.

maxim is ‘Real estate isn’t just about property, it’s about people. People are our best property’.”

Bill also attributes much of his success to DB itself, and the variety of homes available. “The saleable area of our properties ranges from 368 square feet to 4,853 square feet, and there are more than 100 different layouts to choose from, so those looking to buy or rent with us are sure to find something they like,” he says.

Photos courtesy of Century 21 Newcourt Realty

The party saw the well-loved local realtor, who grew up in Peng Chau, celebrating an incredible 25 years of operation in DB. Bill founded Newcourt Realty on moving here in 1989. Newcourt Realty joined the internationally renowned Century 21 franchise in 1994.

Of course when Bill and his sister started out, DB looked a little different.

“In 1989, there were just four phases; Beach Village, Headland Village and Parkridge Village made up the first phase. Now there are 15!” he explains.

“We started out as a company of two – me and my younger sister, operating from a home office,” Bill recalls. His team now numbers 13 dedicated agents, 70% of whom he trained himself.

“The biggest and best moment for us as a company was when we opened our DB Plaza shop in 2003,” Bill adds.

“That’s when I really felt we were on our way.”

The Hong Kong real-estate market is notoriously volatile, so how does Bill

“Time flies and 1989 seems like yesterday,” he adds with a smile. “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues for their service and wish both them and all the residents of Discovery Bay the very best!” explain his firm’s longevity. “The majority of our success comes from referrals,” he says. “People like that we are truthful and that we care about what our clients really want. My

You can contact Bill Chan, managing director of Century 21 Newcourt Realty, at 2987 9729, dbay@c21newcourt.com, or visit www.c21newcourt.com.

October 2014

21

Stretch It Out!

“The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning is gaining the mastery of your mind over the complete control over your body.” - Joseph H. Pilates

PILATES | YOGA | SPINNING® | ZUMBA® | TRX® | KETTLEBELLS | PERSONAL TRAINING Unit 10, 1st Floor, Block 2, DB North Plaza. Tel: 2987 5852 - www.movementimprovement.com.hk

DENTAL HYGIENIST REQUIRED for our brand new Dental Clinic in Caribbean Coast, Tung Chung

BAYSIDE DENTAL

TUNG CHUNG

Local or overseas graduates in Dental Hygiene welcome to apply.

Applications should be sent to liz.rawson@diestelandpartners.com

Activities for adults List your Lantau club or activity for free at www.arounddb.com ART Davincino, DB 9772 4035, www.davincinohk.com Davincino offers relaxing art classes in mixed-media painting. The acrylic painting classes are with Shailaja Gidwani.

Judyanna Li, DB 9452 9987, judyannali@gmail.com Judyanna Li’s Chinese painting classes run every Monday morning.

DANCE DanceforJoy HK, Tung Chung 9264 8597 DanceforJoy HK’s fun and easy dance, hip-hop and jazz-funk workouts help you stay fit and healthy.

DMR School of Ballet, DB 2987 4338, www.dmr-hk.com DMR School of Ballet offers ballet and tap classes. It has been shaping dancers since 1984.

South Lantau Groove Fitness, Mui Wo 9861 6657, www.dragons.hk The Mui Wo club offers Zumba, Pilates and core strain-stretch classes.

Stepz Studio, Tung Chung 3152 7535, www.stepz-studio.com Stepz Studio offers jazz, ballet, hip-hop and contemporary dance, plus Yoga and drama classes.

Zumba Fitness and Yoga, DB 9079 2987, www.deguzman305.zumba.com DB resident Mariles de Guzman holds classes in Zumba and Yoga.

Zumba Fitness and Yoga by Arlyn, DB 9854 2723, www.arlyine98.zumba.com Classes in Zumba, toning and steps-toning are offered every week from Monday to Saturday.

FITNESS 9 Dragons Fitness, Tung Chung 9494 7178, www.9DragonsFitness.com 9 Dragons Fitness offers classes in CrossFit, aerial arts, mobility, Muay Thai boxing, Olympic weightlifting, Bootcamp, Pilates, TRX, Yoga and Zumba.

Embody, DB 6624 8712, www.embody.hk Experienced and certified instructors teach Yoga, Pilates, Fitball, Fatburn and MVe Chair classes to small groups in this boutique studio.

Hong Kong School of Capoeira, DB & Tung Chung 6846 0789, www.capoeirahk.com Hong Kong School of Capoeira offers classes in the Brazilian dance/ martial art every Saturday.

Kipmovin, DB & Tung Chung 6180 3256, www.kipmovin.com Elite athlete Thomas Kiprotich’s outdoor fitness-training programme helps people of all fitness levels achieve their goals.

Movement Improvement, DB 2987 5852, www.movementimprovement.com.hk Movement Improvement offers personal training or semi-private sessions in Pilates, Yoga, spinning and fitness (including TRX).

Pilates Plus, Tung Chung 9838 3937, www.pilatesplus.com.hk Pilates Plus offers high-quality Pilates classes, plus cardio-groove and step aerobics in a friendly environment.

The HIT Room, DB 6621 7410, www.thehitroom.com.hk The HIT Room offers group exercises, personal training and customised programmes in Bodypump, boxing, core, spin, highintensity training and more.

Yoga Academy, DB 6387 7812, www.academy.abbysan.com Yoga Academy offers private Yoga and Pilates classes. It also specialises in postural re-alignment, and post-Yoga and sports injury rehabilitation.

GOLF Big Sai Wan Golf Society, DB www.bigsaiwan.com Big Sai Wan Golf Society welcomes golfers of all levels to enjoy the game, the exercise and the camaraderie.

DB Residents Golf Society, DB dbrgssecretary@gmail.com, www.dbrgs.com Discovery Bay Residents Golf Society organises regular golf outings, overseas trips and an annual golf championship.

Discovery Bay Golf Club, DB 2987 7273, www.dbgc.hk Open since 1983, the club has three interesting and testing course layouts: the Diamond, Jade and Ruby nines.

Activities for adults Harry Wright International, DB 2575 6279, www.harrywright.com.hk Besides learning life-long useful swimming skills, participants are offered customised classes according to their needs.

Lantau Boat Club, DB

MARTIAL ARTS Daruma Judo Club, DB 6244 6093, darumasports@gmail.com Formerly known as Cobra Sports, Daruma Judo Club, headed up by Cedric Sum and Emily Lau, offers classes every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evening, and Saturday afternoon.

DB Boxing, DB dbaybc@gmail.com, http://dbaybc.webnode.com DB Boxing provides a mix of boxing-based fitness and conditioning, combined with technique drills, hand pads and light sparring.

TEAM SPORTS Discovery Bay Football Club, DB dirk@e-quiptraining.com, www.discoverybayfc.com The club aims to promote adult football in DB and position DB as a competitive football community throughout Hong Kong and the region.

DB Pirates Rugby Football Club, DB 2517 8248, www.dbpirates.com DB Pirates Rugby Football Club offers rugby, hockey and dragon boating for men and women, plus netball for women.

Pure Tennis Academies, DB & Tung Chung 9079 2987, ricky@puretennisacademies.com Pure Tennis Academies provides modern coaching and competitive programmes to suit tennis players of all ages and abilities.

9747 3860, www.lantauboatclub.com The non-profit club has a thriving paddling section and coastal rowing section. Water-based activities involve catamarans, dinghies, canoes, row boats and windsurfs.

Long Coast Seasports, Cheung Sha 8104 6222, http://longcoast.hk Long Coast Seasports offers sailing, kayaking, surfing, bodyboarding, skimboarding and wakeboarding.

Treasure Island Group, Pui O 2546 3543, www.treasureislandhk.com Treasure Island’s outdoor activity centre provides team-building programmes and corporate events solutions.

OTHER Caissa Chess Club, DB 9681 2896, www.caissahk.com In addition to meeting on an informal basis to play, the club organises tournaments, matches and training.

DB Glee, DB jetshk@rocketmail.com, www.dbglee.com DB Glee holds singing sessions for adults every Thursday evening. Its free community choir for helpers meets every Sunday afternoon.

DB Writers Club, DB dbwritersclub@gmail.com At this free club, writers meet to encourage and support one another in their various writing projects.

WATER SPORTS Aqua Gym, Tung Chung 2914 0658, www.aquagym.com.hk Aqua Gym organises a wide range of aquatic programmes for swimmers of all levels, ranging from beginner lessons, to adult triathlon and swim-fit classes.

Discovery Bay Yacht Club, DB membership@dbyc.net, www.dbyc.net Discovery Bay Yacht Club is made up of yacht owners and crew, who enjoy fun and friendly regattas, cruises and races.

• For tutoring and language classes, go to www.arounddb.com (under directory, activities for adults) • For charities and volunteering, go to www.arounddb.com (under directory, community services)

New classes and offers for adults!

New KipCross Training classes Special rate for unlimited monthly classes

ACROSS LANTAU

ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS FOR YOU TO ENJOY!

www.actionasiaevents.com

Get your event listed at www.arounddb.com

er 5 Octob

Lantau 2 PEAKS

Start: Citygate, Tung Chung Good luck to the trail runners taking part in Action Asia’s SUUNTO Lantau 2 Peaks! Starting at 8am, participants race either 5-, 15- or 21-kilometres over the hills of Lantau. Visit www.actionasiaevents.com.

CHARM OF TAI O EXHIBIT Hong Kong International Airport, Chek Lap Kok 4– October 2

View 35 stunning photographs, taken by Tung Chung resident, Irene Flanhardt of Flanhardt Galerie und Atelier, in The Charm o f Ta i O , a t H o n g K o ng Inter n at i o n a l Airport (departure hall, cabin A, aisle A). Visit www.fgua.com.hk.

Octob

www.barclaysmoontrekker.com

MOONTREKKER HIKE Start: Mui Wo Ferry Pier

SAVE THE DATE

Organisers of the annual 40-kilometre/ 26-kilometre Barclays MoonTrekker overnight hike are looking for musicians to help motivate runners over the hills! You can also sign up as a volunteer to man checkpoints and hand out food and water for the event. Email info@moontrekker.com.

26

Pui O

Pui O resident Cecilie Gamst Berg’s Sichuan CooKIT provides all the ingredients crucial to Sichuan cooking in portionsized packages, along with a recipe e-book and instructive film clips. Delivery is for Central and Pui O only. Visit the Sichuan Co o k i t Fa c e b o o k p a ge, o r www.happyjellyfish.com.

Salomon, LANTAU TRAIL 70 Start: China Bear, Mui Wo

October 2014

Photo by Irene Flanhardt

Sichuan CooKIT

e r 10

Photo courtesy of Lantau Base Camp

r 30 Novembe

Novem

Photo courtesy of Cecilie Gamst Berg

be r 1

Trail runners can sign up now for Lantau Base Camp’s Salomon, Lantau Trail 70, the 70-kilometre trail race covering the entire Lantau Trail. Starting at 9am, participants race either individually or in teams. Organisers are looking for volunteers to help out at checkpoints, and with timing, course marking, first aid and course sweeping. Registration costs HK$800 for a single runner, or a team of two; HK$840 for a team of four. Visit http://events.lantaubasecamp.com/salomon-lt-70.html.

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COMPETITIONS

Win a spot in Team FEAR Junior Challenge!

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions Kids age eight to 18 are already right here). You have until October 10 to submit training vigorously for the Team your answers. To enter, email info@arounddb.com, FEAR Junior Challenge, taking place click on the competitions link at in DB on November 16, in support www.arounddb.com, or scan the QR Code of the Hong Kong charity Youth below. Don’t forget to give us Outreach. Now in its 13th year, last year’s your name and telephone number!

adventure race saw the young athletes raise some HK$140,000 for local children, less privileged than themselves. For more information, visit www.team-fear.com. Registration is now closed, but here’s your chance to win a team spot!

Which local charity does the event raise money for?

Which Broadway star plays The Phantom?

Photo courtesy of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions

See THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA!

Photo by Vincent Ypersiel

Team FEAR is offering two teams of either two or three, a place in any category (worth HK$700 for a team of two and HK$1,050 for a team of three).

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA returns to Hong Kong from December 21 to January 11, at AsiaWorld-Expo Arena, Chek Lap Kok. Played to more than 80 million people in 124 cities around the world, the show has won more than 50 major theatre awards, including seven Tony Awards and two Olivier Awards. Broadway star Brad Little as The Phantom is joined by a stellar international cast of 37, accompanied by a full live orchestra. For tickets, starting at HK$295, visit www.hkticketing.com.

Lunchbox Theatrical Productions is offering three readers a pair of A-Reserve tickets (worth HK$795 per ticket) to see the show on December 21.

Stick Man ticket giveaway!

Stick Man, written by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, is showing at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai, from October 17 to 19. Alongside a one-man band, three actors draw upon puppets, props and costumes to bring to life a multitude of roles, narrating Stick Man’s adventures as he tries to get back to his family tree. For tickets, starting at HK$195, visit www.hkticketing.com.

ABA Productions and Scamp Theatre (UK) are offering two readers, four B-Reserve tickets (worth HK$385 per ticket) to see Stick Man on October 17.

Who wrote Stick Man? Photo courtesy of ABA Productions

Congratulations to last month’s winners Jake Addeo and Sarah Sutherland for Kipmovin’s training programme; Sandra Wyatt and Tehya Subananchai for tickets to see Potted Potter; Nicole Kirkham and Kylie Horsfall for tickets to see Charlie and Lola’s Extremely New Play; Natalie Leslie and Tatiana Christensen for the workshops at Complete Deelite; Nicolas Guyard, Eva Zheng and Liubov Milatskova for the Daruma Judo Club course; and Catherine Yeadon, Ben Luder, Doreen Jowharsha, Mira Kim Gould, Nancy Xu and Veerle T’jampens for VIP tickets to the Asia Contemporary Art Show.

30

October 2014

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Photos courtesy of Bianca Fischer

PROFILE

34

Bianca Fischer, fundraising director for Animals Asia Foundation, at the charity’s Nanning sanctuary in southern China

October 2014

PROFILE

ANIMAL INSTINCT

Bianca Fischer talks to Beverly Au about the charity sector in Hong Kong, life in DB and saving moon bears

A

t 30, Bianca Fischer is something of a wunderkind.

The bubbly South African, a DB resident of nearly two years, is the fundraising director for Animals Asia Foundation, the animal charity (one of Hong Kong’s biggest) devoted to ending bear bile farming and improving the welfare of animals in China and Vietnam. Prior to that, in her mid-20s, she was fundraising and communications manager at the Royal National Lifeboat Institute in London, where for four years she raised in excess of GBP10 million (HK$126 million) annually, leading a staff of up to 250.

Discussing her career trajectory, Bianca points out that as a (very) young woman working in London she had to “over prove” herself. “People always assume you can’t do the job because you are too young, too old or you are a woman, or whatever,” she says. After two years with Animals Asia her comparative youth is no longer an issue.

At home in DB Bianca’s parents lived in DB from 2001 to 2013, when her father was working on the air-cargo handling system at the ‘new’ airport, so on landing her dream job with Animals Asia, settling here was a no-brainer. “It just felt like home,” she says, “and I love DB for its diverse community.”

Bianca lives in DB with husband Wayne, an IT project manager, whom she met 15 years ago through a school friend in South Africa. “It’s a bit of a cliché really, but he is my best friend,” she says. “We got married in South Africa and our wedding was also our farewell party. A week later we were on a plane bound for the UK and we have never looked back.”

Bianca shares her home with a cat (brought over from London) and two Pomeranians, adopted through LAP (Lifelong Animal Protection), the local animal rehoming society. “Along with my husband, they are the loves of my life,” she says. “One of the reasons we love DB is because it’s an animal haven. Pets are not just pets here, they are loved and valued members of people’s families.”

Interestingly enough, four of Bianca’s Animals Asia teammates also live in DB: Connie Lo, Susanna Lee, Timothy South and Leah Roberts, as do plenty of dedicated volunteers, including Clara Chan, who has been organising DB events to help save the moon bears since 2011.

A relative island newbie, Bianca is refreshingly enthusiastic about Lantau.

“I really love Tai O, it has so much heritage; and I also enjoy heading out to the Big Buddha in Ngong Ping for its vegetarian restaurant. My husband

and I try to go walking every weekend, in groups or just the two of us and our dogs.”

Clearly an outdoorsy type, with a competitive streak, Bianca is a member of the newly formed DB Pirates’ senior women’s rugby team. “We train with the men, and that pushes us even harder! It’s a great way to blow off steam, get fit and have fun!” she says.

“Playing together helps forge a sense of community as you really get to know the people on the team.”

A life in charity Bianca started her career in the commercial sector, at an events and exhibitions company, but quickly switched into charity. “I needed to feel I was achieving success in my career and making a difference,” she says with infectious enthusiasm.

“The charity sector in Hong Kong lags about a decade behind England and the States but it is fast becoming very skilled in how to fundraise. It is a thrill to be a part of this wave of improvement.”

Bianca adds that local charity executives actively network once a quarter and share ideas and solutions that are helping the sector to grow.

“Networking creates more awareness of how to do things in a more effective manner.”

October 2014



35

PROFILE

With her two adopted Pomeranians Lucy and Harry

With friends hiking from DB to Mui Wo

In hindsight, it would seem Bianca was destined to work in animal welfare.

Growing up in Durban, her earliest memories include trips into the bush, where she and her father would often find injured monkeys, birds or field mice that needed help to survive. “If a bird fell out of its nest than my father and I would nurse it back to health until it was ready to be released back into the wild,” she explains.

With DB Pirates’ senior women’s rugby team

which is a lot when you consider most charities have a 5 to 12% growth in income over a year,” she says. “I am very happy to say that we are on track to achieve 35% growth.”

spaces and into an open enclosure is the charity’s priority. Funds raised so far are already improving the bears’ diets, being used for vital healthchecks and to build outdoor dens.

Mission to save the moon bears

Growth in income is especially vital to the charity this year as its latest venture is to transform a former bear breeding and extraction farm in Nanning, southern China into its third sanctuary. The project is also the first of its kind on the planet.

Bianca’s work entails coming up with strategies to raise vital funds to benefit the around 400 moon bears cared for

by Animals Asia at its two sanctuaries in Chengdu, China and near Hanoi in Vietnam. “I am trying to bring about a 50% growth of income for 2014,

There are around 130 bears in Nanning and the charity aims to raise US$5 million to transform their lives immeasurably. The bears currently live in filthy steel cages and tiny concrete cells and most have never set foot on grass. Getting them out of these awful

Saying that Jill Robinson MBE, Animals Asia’s founder and CEO, is a great mentor, Bianca confides that one day she would like to own an animal sanctuary. “It would help rehabilitate animals, and hopefully release them back into the wild. I definitely feel protective of animals, especially endangered ones.”

Find more local heroes

36

Husband Wayne at the DB rock pools with Lucy

October 2014

Find it Animals Asia Foundation, www.animalsasia.org

at www.arounddb.com

IN FOCUS

GROW

YOUR OWN Earth therapy may not be quite the revolution it is elsewhere, but as Angie Bucu discovers, the edible garden craze has most definitely arrived on our shores

C Photos by Baljit Gidwani and Angie Bucu, and courtesy of HKR International

ommunity garden plots and urban farming abound locally, revealing a large and active community of people who are trying to keep it local and organic, while teaching others to do the same. Interest is not limited to Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) in deepest Lantau, or picking up an organic vegetable box from the vendors at the Handmade Hong Kong bazaar in DB Plaza, the Central Ferry Pier Market, or the Mui Wo Mini Farmers’ Market.

38

Throughout Hong Kong, people are learning how to grow their own food on balconies, rooftops and in community allocated allotments. The options are varied and abundant, as is the food that can be grown in the smallest of places.

Food cultivation Francis Chiu, chairman of Siena Two B Village Owners Committee (VOC), has a thriving rooftop garden, which he says has sustained his family of two well, even in the hot and wet summer months. Francis has spinach, okra, sweet potato, passion fruit, ginger, a vast amount of herbs and a couple of fruit trees. “My compost box is providing enough organic fertiliser, so the whole rooftop garden is thriving,” he says with a grin.

October 2014

DB Family Farm, Siena Park

What’s driving this interest in food cultivation and gardening? Francis suggests that he is interested in growing his own food because he wants to make healthy food choices and eat food that is not laden with chemical fertilisers and pesticides. DB Green founder Kate Wade, a representative of Siena Two B’s VOC, says that her family decided to start their own food garden in order to eat organically. Kate has been growing sweet potatoes, beans and herbs this summer and also has a couple of fruit trees.

Jenny Quinton, founder of Ark Eden, the educational and recreational ecoworld in Mui Wo, believes that health is what inspires people to grow their own food, and suggests that the desire for nutritious and safe food choices will drive the market so that quality, health-giving produce is available at lower prices.

Earth therapy, a term coined by Jenny, refers to the joy of gardening and getting our hands in the soil, and it’s another reason both Kate and Francis say they grow food. “People miss having their hands in the earth. The connection you can get with what you grow, and the time and space it takes, gives a lot of people something that they can’t get anywhere else,” says Jenny, reflecting on the experiences of many of the participants who come to Ark Eden to learn about both horticulture and permaculture.

Get growing So you want to grow your own food, how do you start? There are a number of options available in DB and beyond, and the choice you make will depend primarily on two things: how much space you have, and how much time you invest.

As many interested gardeners may not have access to an outdoor space, some of the DB villages have set up community gardening plots, which you can rent for six months for around HK$300. Baby Hefti, Peninsula Village chairperson, says that these were first set up to get people interested in environmental issues. Growing your own food has turned out to be one of the most popular community ventures in DB. 

IN FOCUS

Francis Chiu on his verdant DB rooftop

October 2014

39

IN FOCUS

Both Peninsula Village and Siena Two B will be adding more plots to their already flourishing allotments in the coming months. Many other villages, including Chianti and Neo Horizon, also have plots, so check with your VOC for availability.

DB Family Farm, comprising 40 plus, 1-metre by 3-metre plots, is also launching in Siena Park this month. This is an HKR International venture in response to requests from DB’s Environmental Protection SubCommittee. You can rent a plot for four months at a time, for HK$500.

For those unable to access a DB allotment, Grandpa’s Garden in Nim Shue Wan has plots for rent; the staff will look after your plot during the week and provide seedlings when available.

Kate Wade’s DB garden

There are also rental plots available on the rooftops of some industrial buildings in Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, and on organic farms throughout the New Territories.

Doreen Jowharsha, a DB resident, has been renting a plot at Philip Hillary Flowerworld Farm in Kam Tin, ever since she spent an afternoon there with friends and got to know the owners.

“I was looking for somewhere to grow vegetables, where I could learn about fertilising and what to grow in Hong Kong weather, and that our children could also be involved in,” says Doreen.

“I still make a lot of mistakes but I have a patient teacher in Hillary, who also helps us plan our crops each season.”

The beauty of these ventures is the sense of community they engender, whether it is sharing food, knowledge, or just helping take care of each other’s plots.

Microgardening If you are fortunate enough to have a balcony, rooftop or even a garden, you may consider setting up a microgarden, for smaller spaces, or your own vegetable garden bed.

40

October 2014

Siena Two B’s community gardens

“Microgardening allows all sorts of vegetables, herbs, fruits and flowering plants to be grown in a compact space and provides food production all year round. It is bio-intensive horticulture, or simply, growing in insulated containers with a fertile growing medium or compost,” says David Sanders of The Green Patch, who has been supplying and designing microgardens in Hong Kong since 2006.

investment in time upfront, but once everything is growing nicely there isn’t too much to do. Francis says he spends about an hour per day on his 450 square-foot rooftop garden. But be warned, it is likely you will want to put in more hours, as you begin to experience the joy of earth therapy, of watching your seedlings grow to mature plants, and as you begin to harvest and share your food.

Microgardens are also proving very popular with schools. The Green Patch has worked with over 50 schools throughout Hong Kong, including Discovery College. Lessons in smallscale gardening are also available to kids at Discovery Bay International School, Ark Eden and Dragontail Farm in Mui Wo.

Practical tips

It’s important to know that vegetable cultivation requires a valuable

A good resource on what to plant and when, fertilising needs, and when to harvest is, Growing Food in the City.

Microgardening: A Practical Guide by David and Bing Sanders, available at Dymocks.

Of course, the success of any garden is dependent on the growing medium and all our growers prefer wholesome 

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IN FOCUS

organic compost. As Arthur van Langenberg says in his book Growing Your Own Food in Hong Kong: “One of the most satisfying things about gardening is making your own compost, it is the corner stone of organic gardening.”

Composting is less convenient in smaller, confined spaces but it isn’t impossible. With Bokashi, layers of uncooked food waste (except meat) are placed in a sealed container and covered with a bran-like substance of effective microorganisms. When the bucket is full, the mixture can be added to soil and after eight weeks you have compost. The liquid that collects at the bottom of the Bokashi bin is a powerful liquid fertiliser. With worm farms, the worms do all the work in breaking down the food scraps. The

worm droppings create the organic fertiliser and compost which collects at the bottom of the worm farm.

“Grow what is in season and learn to know what grows in Hong Kong’s climate,” advises David, who says this is the biggest lesson for those new to gardening here. Francis agrees, saying, “I had a lot of difficulties in the beginning because I wanted to grow what I wanted to eat, even though it was not in season.” After some disappointments, Francis listened to the experts and he now has a flourishing crop of seasonal produce all year round.

This month you can start planting the Chinese leafy greens and winter vegetables, like choi sum, kai lan, carrots, broccoli, beetroot, tomatoes,

Find more topical local topics

lettuce and peas. While rosemary, parsley and coriander suffer in the summer heat, most herbs grow well all year round, inside or on window sills.

Find it • Ark Eden, www.arkedenonlantau.com • DB Family Farm, 2238 3601 • Dragontail Farm, dragontailfarm@gmail.com • Handmade Hong Kong, www.handmadehongkong.com • Mui Wo Mini Farmers’ Market, dragontailfarm@gmail.com • Philip Hillary Flowerworld Farm, www.flowerworldhk.com • The Green Patch, www.thegreenpatch.hk

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DBMOMENTS

SUPERSIZE TO SUPERSKINNY Back in 2011, Tung Chung resident, Anita Tomasov weighed 112 kilogrammes.

Now she hits the scales at a cool 66 kilogrammes. Hannah Ball finds out how

I

f it’s not some fad diet we’re trying in order to lose weight, it’s personal trainers, protein shakes, Pilates or pills. Opting for a surgical weight-loss procedure might seem extreme but for Aussieborn, Anita Tomasov, a Tung Chung resident of eight years, it’s delivered an incredible and lasting result.

In November 2011, Anita, who describes herself as a stress-eater, underwent a Sleeve Gastrectomy, which, over the course of three years, has resulted in an overall weight loss of 46 kilogrammes.

nothing that wasn’t ‘stretch’ material or made in Shenzhen,” she confesses.

“My health was also suffering. I had sore hips and knees, and lower back pain, and I was on the verge of taking medication for high blood pressure.”

Anita has struggled with her weight since her 20s so, in October 2011, she decided to look into her surgical options. “Sleeve Gastrectomy was the most appealing solution, since it required very little surgical aftercare,” she says. “Part of the stomach is surgically removed, making it physically smaller, and removing the fundus which secrets the hormone ghrelin, that tells the body it’s hungry.”

Discovering that surgery in Hong Kong could involve a two-year wait,

Photos by Eddie Peterson and and courtesy of Anita Tomasov

Anita in 2011, and 46 kilos lighter in 2014

Weight-loss plans A divorcee with three children, age five, seven and nine, Anita explains that it took her kids’ friend asking about her size for her to realise that she was morbidly obese.

Age 40, she weighed well over 100 kilogrammes and had a dangerously high Body Mass Index.

“I could barely fit into size 22 clothing from Marks & Spencer. I owned Find more local heroes

Anita elected to have her operation in Brisbane, Australia the very next month. Just five days after her operation, she was on a beach in Noosa, on Australia’s Sunshine Coast.

Success story After just four months, Anita had lost 20 kilogrammes. “My dietician at Island Health, DB, was the first person to ever tell me I needed to eat more!” she says triumphantly.

Determined to keep the weight off for the sake of her kids, Anita has been further motivated by the support of friends and also by her new look.

Although lower back problems prevent her from exercising much, she eats like a bird and says she never feels hungry.

“I’m wearing a bikini and I shop where I want. It’s like I’m 21.”

And it isn’t just Anita’s body image that has changed. She had decided pre-op that she would open her own business, Tung Chung Vet Centre, in late December, 2011, and her newfound confidence has helped make it a resounding success. “I’ve wanted to run my own clinic since my early 30s,” says Anita, who has worked as a vet in Hong Kong, since she arrived here in 2000.

Weighing a healthy 66 kilogrammes, and with her business expanding, Anita says she’s never felt better. “I’m now mentally much more awake and driven. I have more energy and an increased metabolism, which allows me to do so much more in life.”

Find it To contact Anita call Tung Chung Vet Centre, 2328 7282

at www.arounddb.com

October 2014

45

FAMILY MATTERS

Photos courtesy of A Mother’s Touch, Au Lait Maternity, Birth Story and Smart Cells

BABY TALK

48

Are you prepared for childbirth? Kate Whitehead finds out all you need to know from four local experts October 2014

FAMILY MATTERS

I

t’s just as well that a pregnancy lasts nine months because there’s plenty to do in expectation of an addition to the family.

Fortunately there is a lot of support to hand, from antenatal classes to having the perfect breastfeeding bra delivered to your door – and all of it provided by women who are mothers themselves, so know what you’re going through.

DB is a great place to raise children, but giving birth in Hong Kong can be challenging, particularly for first-time mothers who can risk being talked into an unnecessary C-section, epidural or other intervention.

What your Doula can do for you “In Hong Kong it’s all medicalised, pregnant women are seen as sick. If you are aiming for a natural [vaginal] birth it’s super important to be prepared,” says Jeanne Hauguel, who trained as a birth and postnatal Doula and childbirth educator after experiencing a lack of support after the birth of her first child in Hong Kong.

While birth interventions are essential for some deliveries, Hong Kong hospitals have a reputation for being quick to propose them, and in many cases push women to elect for C-sections, which are attractive to doctors (more money, less time spent in the delivery room) but can take women weeks to recover from.

“If you have parents who are not ready and aware of what they are doing, they end up with too much intervention,” says Jeanne, who founded her company Birth Story in May 2012 with the aim of offering expectant mothers the knowledge, tools and support they need for a positive birth experience.

She offers classes in Discovery Bay and Tung Chung, as well as elsewhere in Hong Kong.

Jeanne could have done with that support five years ago. Like many women, she had trouble breastfeeding and experienced cracked nipples.

Worried that her new-born wasn’t

suckling properly, she panicked when it appeared that he was vomiting blood and the family rushed to Queen Mary Hospital in Pokfulam. It turned out that the blood was actually Jeanne’s own, from her cracked nipple, a fairly common problem, but the drama left her traumatised and she stopped breastfeeding. After the birth of her second child two years later, she determined to become a Doula.

one other person into the delivery room – usually the father – she says the advantage of having a Doula is that the mother can stay at home for as long as possible, until there are signs that the labour is active. This is a definite bonus in Hong Kong where pre-labour wards (in public hospitals) are not conducive to relaxation, with 16 women packed into one room, and visiting hours are limited.

A Doula is a trained woman who supports women – emotionally and practically – through pregnancy, childbirth and motherhood. They work alongside doctors, nurses, midwives and partners. Doulas aren’t a common feature within the local Chinese community, but they are catching on among expatriate mothers and there are now about half a dozen working in Hong Kong.

A mother’s touch

Jeanne studied for a year to become a Doula and took an online course through Childbirth International, but much of her knowledge comes from the experience of having had three children of her own, the youngest is just nine months. The cornerstone of preparation for childbirth is understanding the process of labour and much of her work is spent offering private antenatal classes to couples, beginning when the woman is 28 to 30 weeks into her pregnancy. In addition to teaching tools to use during labour, such as relaxation as well as the medical aspects from the less invasive options, such as gas and air, through to epidurals, she helps couples prepare a birth plan.

“A birth plan is a document, it needs to be clear and precise, about what is important for the parents on the day of the birth,” says Jeanne. “Most parents want to aim for a natural birth, they want to take time to try this and that, the mother wants to be able to move around, they don’t want to be pushed into a C-Section or an epidural.”

About half Jeanne’s clients give birth in public hospitals and half go private.

While local public hospitals only allow

Australian South Lantau resident Liz Purnell-Webb is also a trained Doula, as well as a massage therapist, reflexologist, baby Yoga instructor and childbirth educator. She is founder of the now well-established A Mother’s Touch in Central, which serves as a one-stop resource for expectant mothers. While the online shop at A Mother’s Touch caters for ‘bumps, birth and beyond’, Liz and her team of about 12 offer everything from fertility treatments through to childbirth education and first year of life activities and courses.

Liz emphasises the importance of partners being involved in the preparation process and delivery.

“Mums need to feel safe. We teach partners to be the birth guardians so that they are made to feel important and active,” she says.

A Mother’s Touch relies on wordof-mouth to get news out about its services, including the increasingly popular, though still slightly controversial, consumption of placenta by the mother to boost her health and energy post delivery. A Mother’s Touch staff will prepare a ‘Placenta Smoothie’ combining some of the fresh placenta with blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and beetroot juice.

“I’ve had fifth- and sixth-time mums who try the Placenta Smoothie and say they notice a big difference; they have more energy after the birth. There is a lot of iron in there and that helps boost the iron lost through blood loss during the birth,” says Liz.  October 2014

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FAMILY MATTERS

Online store Au Lait supplies essentials, like maternity wear and breastfeeding covers

Doula Jeanne Hauguel of Birth Story with DB resident Cathy Blanc at the birth of her son Victor

Getting the supplies you need Other preparations for childbirth include ensuring you have the supplies you need when the baby arrives.

Bumps to Babes and Babies“R”Us are, of course, a first port of call.

Joanna Jones-Tan set up her online store selling breastfeeding covers and maternity wear after she struggled to find suitable garments in Hong Kong.

Au Lait Maternity stocks specially designed tops, dresses and tunics, so that breastfeeding mothers can feed their baby discreetly in public.

“Most of your breast is still hidden, so it makes for very easy feeding when you’re out and about, you don’t have to worry about finding somewhere discreet,” says Joanna.

She began by importing her favourite brands – Milk Nursingwear, a good value US brand, and Love Milk and Boob, both from Europe. Made from organic cotton, they meet European standards for non-toxicity – an important issue for mothers who are concerned about the fabrics that their baby comes into contact with. Au Lait offers free delivery to Discovery Bay within two to three days and has a full and flexible returns policy.

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October 2014

storage Umbilical cord For those who want to be superprepared, not just for the immediate birth of their child but their longterm future and health, there is umbilical cord storage. This cord and the tissues around it are packed with stem cells that can serve as a repair system for other cells in the body and the immune system by multiplying and transforming into blood, bone, tissue and organ cells.

Umbilical cord storage at Smart Cells Hong Kong

It might sound far-fetched, but there are a few companies in Hong Kong that will collect the blood and tissues from the umbilical cord immediately after birth, although Smart Cells Hong Kong in Central is the only one that is regulated by an independent government body, the Human Tissue Authority in the UK. Since it began operations in Hong Kong in 2004, Smart Cells has collected 1,500 samples. The collected blood and tissues are packed in special cord blood bags and immediately flown to the UK, where they are processed at the Smart Cells lab and stored for future use.

The process doesn’t come cheap. It costs about HK$40,000 to store cord blood for 25 years and HK$75,000 to store cord blood and tissues, but for many it is seen as an opportunity to protect a child against serious illness or disease. “We have a good relationship with the Matilda Hospital and the nurses, midwives and doctors there are trained by us to do the collection,” says Wini Lam at Smart Cells Hong Kong. 

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FAMILY MATTERS

And for mothers who don’t plan to breastfeed for too long or prefer not to invest in a special set of breastfeeding clothes, Joanna stocks a wide range of breastfeeding bras. The dropdown cup makes for easy access to the breast for a quick feed and is an essential item to take to the hospital for the first feeds.

Women’s bodies change considerably through pregnancy and so do their breasts, so Joanna recommends bras that expand and contract with the body. “I have one bra that will change from a B cup to an F, so you don’t have to worry about getting really big and you don’t waste money getting lots of different sized bras,” she says.

With all the details taken care of, all you expectant mums out there can focus on your burgeoning bumps!

Liz Purnell-Webb educating expectant parents at A Mother’s Touch

t Find i

• A Mother’s Touch, www.amotherstouch.com.hk • Au Lait Maternity, www.aulaitmaternity.com • Babies“R”Us, www.babiesrus.com.hk • Bumps to Babes, www.bumpstobabes.com • Birth Story, www.doulabirthstory.com • Smart Cells Hong Kong, http://hk.smartcells.com

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MONEY MATTERS

HOW MUCH

IS ENOUGH?

When we consider how much money we need to live, what do we need to take into account? Annette M. Houlihan reports

T Photos courtesy of www.picturesofmoney.org

he career or employment opportunities we pursue have a huge impact on both our current lifestyle and future plans. It’s essential then to earn enough to enjoy life in the now, while at the same time saving for the future.

If you factor in funding a home purchase, a reasonable healthcare and retirement package, and a quality lifestyle for yourself and your kids, how much do you need to live on?

Love the life you live Of course, where we choose to live dictates our living costs, and we’re already ahead of the game in deciding to live in DB (and Lantau).

Ferry tickets notwithstanding, it’s still a cheaper place to live than many other family-friendly locations in Hong Kong.

guarantees us a certain level of comfort, which includes being able to sleep in our beds at night without having to worry about our family’s safety.

Consider that a three-bedroom, 1,400 square-foot apartment in Mid-Levels would cost at least HK$20 million, while a similar three-bed in DB comes in at around HK$12 million.

In choosing to live in DB we’ve done our homework, right? After all, we all need somewhere to live and the ideal scenario is to own our family home outright by the time we retire.

Talking of earning enough to enjoy life, it’s important to be able to build leisure time in. If all of our income is spent on just paying the bills and caring for our families, what do we do our jobs for? We can spend a little on our hobbies (gym or art classes) or a lot (golf or sailing) but overall, as we work hard during the week, we need to be able to fund a relief of some sort.

Settling in DB also buys us a quality lifestyle. We can look out to the sea or the mountains and enjoy the view, and a reasonable climate year round.

The money we spend on living also

Again, as we work hard, we need to find the readies to vacation. How many holidays a year quantify a break for you? Do you want to fund regular weekends away, or a month’s cruise  October 2014

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MONEY MATTERS

around the world once a year? For many of us, of course, the opportunity to ‘go home’ to see loved ones is just as important as an occasional leisure trip.

Children cost a fortune! In addition to providing them with a stable and warm family home, (and after-school activities and vacations, etc.), they need a top-notch education. In a very competitive world, it’s vital that the school system we choose for them is up to standard. For many of us in DB, this involves funding a private education.

To raise and educate a child through school (in the private sector) and then university in Hong Kong costs an estimated HK$5.5 million. For overseas university, this rises to around HK$6.7 million. It’s essential of course to consider all the related costs, plus inflation factors when you do your calculations.

Our incomes rise between 3% and 5% per year but education fees and cost of living rises are between 6% and 8% per year.

The more choices you want available in your retirement, the more it will cost. The earlier you start to save, the more you will have and the less you will have to be concerned about later on in life. Our grandparents and great grandparents were provided for by their employers or socialistic governments but we do not have this luxury. We have to do this ourselves.

It is not practical to consider a luxurious lifestyle while we’re working and not put anything away for the future. Liquidity is also vital and although you may have put money into property or land, you cannot use these to pay your bills. You need cash, available too. Emergencies always occur and the unforeseen happens so it is important to be prepared for this.

None of us like the thought of having to go into an old people’s home when we age but this may be a necessity. This is an area that is often overlooked but will likely become common in the future.

Note that the trade-off for being rehoused is often our home and assets.

To plan for retirement, you need to consider if you want the money to last a certain number of years, or forever (as a legacy to your children.) When looking at timeframes, be aware that in the West we are tending to live longer: men until they are 84, and women 87.

If you start work at 22 and retire at 60, you have 38 years to save for the next 24 years. But in reality most of us only consider retirement when we get into our 30s, meaning we have lost 10 years of saving.

If you retire on HK$775,000 per annum income, you will have had to save HK$6.2 million to HK$11.6 million depending on your choices in retirement.

When thinking about funding our family’s lifestyle, insurances are key, particularly healthcare.

Few countries offer free medical and those that still do, have a huge waiting list, so it’s important to cater for family illness or disability. Healthcare is a diminishing social service and we need to be prepared for the potential costs.

So you see the dilemma?

Have you got enough? The easiest solution is to gather as much as you can while you can. Squirrels save for winter.

Our winter is our future. We have no idea of the exact amounts and potential changes, but we can prepare ourselves as much as possible when it is possible.

Fund the future you want Are you the retiring type? If the answer is yes then while you cater for everyday life, you need to save for your future. If you are not the retiring type, you need to prepare for a lifestyle change of some kind – you cannot work forever!

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

Find more monetary advice

58

October 2014

at www.arounddb.com

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TALKING POINTS

MILLION-DOLLAR

DIP

Bruce in training off DB

Photos by Ricardo Casanova and Around DB

What motivates someone to swim 75 kilometres around Lantau in just five days? Hannah Ball talks to DB uber-athlete, 45-year-old Bruce Pye to find out

E

to use a decommissioned sea trawler for education and research,” says 16year DB resident, Dana Winograd of PFS. “It can also be used by corporate groups and individuals for a party with a purpose.”

PFS is dedicated to informing students and adults about marine plastic pollution, and its latest venture, launching at the end of the year, is a floating education vessel. “The idea is

With his swim, Bruce, a captain with Cathay Pacific and the managing director of Sports World in DB, plans to raise a cool HK$1 million to help PFS fund its Sea Classroom programme.

Donations are invited from corporates as well as individuals.

verybody’s talking about DB ultra-marathon runner, Bruce Pye’s latest endurance challenge. From October 29 to November 2, he’ll be swimming 75 kilometres around Lantau to raise funds and awareness for the DB-based eco-charity, Plastic Free Seas (PFS).

Marathon swim Starting from DB’s Tai Pak Wan, Bruce will swim 15 kilometres each day, following an anticlockwise route around the Lantau coast. He’ll be accompanied not only by local paddlers and a support team but by his coach, four-year DB resident Olivier Baillet. An experienced endurance trainer and swimmer, Olivier has been providing Bruce with much-needed fitness-related support, including a swim-training  October 2014

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TALKING POINTS

plan, nutrition advice and technical guidance on open-water swimming.

During the five-day event, Bruce will sleep on the PFS trawler off Luk Keng Bay (near Sunny Bay MTR), San Shek Wan (south of Tung Chung), Fan Lau (Lantau’s south-western tip) and Shui Hau Wan (South Lantau), before returning to Tai Pak Wan on November 2.

PFS is organising beach clean-ups (for local schools, corporates, clubs and individuals) along Bruce’s route.

Bruce is looking at around six hours of continuous swimming each day, up against rough tides. “I chose to swim for this, because I believe it’s no use doing something if it’s not a real challenge,” he explains. “A swim like this has never been done in Hong Kong before, and that makes the whole thing very exciting.”

Hau Wan on November 1.

The funds Bruce raises will see the Sea Classroom project through its first year. “This boat is the first of its kind in Hong Kong, and will make an exciting addition to our existing education programme,” Dana says. “The Sea Classroom programme will involve up to 30 secondary school students at a time, and will include research activities, such as using a 3-metre net to trawl the surface for micro plastics,

and collecting data for analysis. There will also be teacher education days.”

“This boat has been on my wish list as a strategic plan for PFS ever since I founded the charity in May 2013,” says Tracey. “The support we have received from schools and the community has been extremely encouraging, and the money raised from Bruce’s swim will help tremendously with the implementation of our education programmes.”

Get involved • • • • •

Sponsor Bruce at www.justgiving.com/75kmswimchallenge For corporate donations, contact ricardo@sportsworld.hk Join Bruce at Tai Pak Wan on October 29 at 7.30am for his send off Paddle alongside Bruce for a few hours on any of his swims Join a PFS beach clean-up at Luk Keng Bay (October 29), San Shek Wan (October 30), Fan Lau (October 31) and Shui Hau Wan (November 1)

Saving seas PFS founder, nine-year DB resident, Tracey Read admits she told Bruce he was crazy when he first came to her with the idea. “It’s such a massive undertaking,” she says. “We’re incredibly grateful to Bruce.”

French-Japanese environmentalist, Cesar Harada is also on board. After the swim challenge, he’ll be assisting the Chinese University of Hong Kong’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering study plastic samples collected during Bruce’s fiveday journey. You can also catch Cesar trialling Protei, his sailing robot, on November 1 at Tai Pak Wan. “The whole event is such an exciting way to raise awareness,” says Dana.

“Discovery College, Discovery Bay International School and Discovery Mind Primary School are discussing the event in class, and we have South Lantau-based artist Liina Klauss doing a large art installation on Shui

Tracey and Dana of PFS

t

i Find

• Follow Bruce’s progress at www.sportsworld.hk • To paddle alongside Bruce, email ricardo@sportsworld.hk • Contact Plastic Free Seas at www.plasticfreeseas.org • Contact Olivier Baillet at www.beyondthelinecoaching.com

Find more topical local topics

64

October 2014

Anton Alekseev, age 10 at www.arounddb.com

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ESCAPES

DOWN THE

YANGTZE

Photos courtesy of Graham Elsom and www.wikimedia.org

Revisiting one of the world’s great river journeys, Graham Elsom gives us a glimpse of the Three Gorges, then and now

66

C

overing some 6,300 kilometres, the Yangtze is the third longest river in the world after the Amazon and the Nile. And to the Chinese it represents the single most scenic area in all of China. By boat, you can cover 695 kilometres in five days from Chongqing in Sichuan Province to Yichang in Hubei Province – an incredible journey, which takes you through the glorious Three Gorges.

The first time I made this trip was in July, 1988, four years before construction began on the colossal (and controversial) Three Gorges October 2014

Dam. A historic feat of engineering, that has increased the Yangtze’s shipping capacity, reduced the risk of flooding and limited greenhouse emissions – while displacing some 1.3 million people – the world’s largest power station has subsequently become an object of wonder on today’s Yangtze river cruise.

Heading downstream Back in the eighties, getting to embarkation point in Chongqing involved a 13-hour train ride from Chengdu, nowadays most tourists fly in. Then and now, much of

Chongqing City is built into the steep hillside, which falls sharply down to the shores of the swollen, chocolatecoloured Yangtze River.

Embarkation in Chongqing involves clambering down a very steep flight of ancient steps to the river. The first time I visited the Three Gorges was on the M.S. Bashan, a luxurious, four-deck vessel converted from Mao Zedong’s private yacht – The East is Red. Nowadays the best cruise ship on the river is, in my opinion, the M.S. Yangtze Explorer. A veritable floating hotel, it affords a relaxing, five-star holiday, while enabling you to explore

ESCAPES

These scenic wonders have drawn admirers since the 16th century BC

one of the world’s scenic wonders.

Twenty-six years after my first visit, the tourist route is much the same, the lofty peaks and precipitous cliffs are still there and, rather incredibly, so are many of the original tour operators. In 1988, I befriended the music director on board the M.S. Bashan, Ernie Kemm. Recently we had lunch in Hong Kong – he is still playing the piano on the Yangtze, albeit on a different cruise line.

Fabulous scenery and Fengjie Travelling downstream, one used

to pass industrial river towns with enormous staircases leading up from the river. These towns and deep banks of steps are now submerged, but the towering peaks which envelope the river remain in all their glory and mystery.

In Fengjie County, the east gate of Chongqing, you get your first taste of the natural wonders which have drawn admirers since the 16th century BC. Evergreen vegetation and banks of flowers provide a vivid foil for the imposing peaks and rock formations.

Waterfalls and natural springs pepper the banks, and some ancient sites

remain, including Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage, former home of the renowned Tang Dynasty poet.

The hillside temple complex of Baidi Cheng, with its taxing climb to White Emperor Shrine, makes a spectacular first port of call. White Emperor Hill offers up a superb view of Qutang Gorge, the first and most spectacular of the Three Gorges.

The glorious gorges Beginning in the west at Kuimen Gate, Fengjie and ending in the east at Nanjing Pass, Yichang, the   October 2014

67

ESCAPES

Three Gorges cover 193 kilometres.

Cruising through Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge, the maximum width of the river is 300 metres, and the minimum is less than 100 metres.

Eight-kilometre Qutang Gorge is the shortest, narrowest and possibly the most spectacular of the Three Gorges. The mountains on either side reach as high as 1,200 metres. Watch out for Hanging Monk Rock (a rock shaped like an upside-down man) and a 10-metre stalactite shaped like a Phoenix displaying its tail feathers.

Goddess Peak, Wu Gorge

At 45 kilometres, Wu Gorge, the so-called Great Gorge, is hugely atmospheric with rock formations wreathed in clouds and fog. Like a winding corridor of paintings, it displays nine of the 12 splendid peaks of the Wushan Mountain Range. A legend about a dragon-slaying girl who fell in love with the mountains surrounds beautiful Goddess Peak.

Three Gorges Dam, Yichang

Shennong Stream, the Little Gorges

At this point in the trip, most tour operators offer an excursion through the equally spectacular Little Gorges.

The Yangtze’s ferocious rapids have largely disappeared due to the construction of the Three Gorges Dam but as the boatmen pole you through Shennong Stream’s fast-flowing, zigzagging waters (in sampans), you can appreciate just how difficult navigating the river once was.

M.S. Yangtze Explorer, a veritable floating hotel

Lastly, Xiling Gorge, the longest of the Three Gorges, spanning 75 kilometres.

It’s likely that you’ll enjoy sunset here, and get to see the beautiful and mysterious crags silhouetted against a darkening sky.

Before disembarking in Yichang, you have the opportunity to traverse the mighty locks and pay a visit to the aweinspiring Three Gorges Dam itself. At 182 metres high, it may not be a match for some of the mighty peaks you’ve been marvelling at but it remains the largest and most expensive engineering project in the world.

Qutang Gorge, with its 1,200-metre mountains

Graham Elsom is the managing director of leisure travel and cruise specialists, Concorde Travel. You can contact him at graham@concordetravel.com, or visit www.concorde-travel.com.

Find more exciting travel destinations

68

October 2014

at www.arounddb.com

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ACTION

ADVENTURE

RACERS

Team FEAR Junior Challenge has been running for 13 years

Photos by Vincent Ypersiel and Paul Christmas

Depending which side of the fence you sit on, introducing your children to competitive sports at a young age could either be the best, or the worst thing for them. Nic Tinworth reports

E

arlier this year, ESPN, in conjunction with a University of Florida research group, conducted a study of youth athletes in the US from the ages of 10 to 18 across nine different sports, with 96% of them resoundingly stating a strong affection for what they were doing.

Some of them played team sports (baseball, basketball, football, softball etc.), while others took the individual route (archery, swimming, tennis),

across a multisport/ specialist split.

The common bond between them all however, was how much they felt the sport contributed to a happy and balanced life.

As a caution to parents, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a report recommending that kids shouldn’t specialise in one specific sport before adolescence. The group warned that overusing growing and developing tendons and ligaments,

by overdoing it at any sport involving repetitive motion, could lead to early, debilitating injuries that may affect development and growth.

Mental and physical pros and cons aside, there’s no questioning the confidence gains that come from sharing fun and challenging activities with friends and parents, and what better way to introduce your children to a variety of sports, at the same time, than multi-sport and adventure races?  October 2014

71

ACTION

Competition in and around Discovery Bay has never been so accessible or fun, with a plethora of options to choose from throughout the year.

“I like keeping fit and enjoy the training,” says Finlay, who enjoys cycling the most because it’s the ‘funnest’. The scenery too, is an important part of the experience for him, and he likes to see how much he can improve from race to race.

Two of the most popular are the Lantau Buffalos Duathlon, which was held on September 27 this year with over 100 participants taking part, and of course the Team FEAR Junior Challenge, taking place this year on November 16. Team FEAR is always heavily over-subscribed, and this year the organisers are trying to find spots for an incredible 750 young adventure racers.

For Dan, the journey is just as important as the destination, but nothing beats the rush of reaching the finish. “I feel free when I’m riding the bike,” he says, “and I love the feeling of achievement when I cross the finish line.”

Team FEAR Junior Challenge

Lantau Buffalos Duathlon The Lantau Buffalos, made up of DB and Lantau residents who have a shared passion for sports, have been organising youth races in Discovery Bay since 2010. Funds raised go to charity, with this year’s September 27 event benefiting the local non-profit Feeding Hong Kong.

For the Lantau Buffalos

The group’s aim is to promote and nurture in participants a shared love of sport, especially in triathlon and duathlon, but rather than having regular events with a fixed format, they choose to organise two to three races a year of varying types. These include triathlons, duathlons, fitness challenges, trail running events and most recently an inline skating race.

The duathlon format run on September 27 (by six to 14 year olds) features a 1.5-kilometre run, a 3-kilometre bike ride and then another 1.5-kilometre run, with a 50% shorter option for the youngest runners.

Event organiser and DB resident Javier Falcon believes these events have a positive impact on the kids that take part. “In our experience children get an immense sense of achievement by completing these competitions,” he says. “For many young ones our races are their first competitive sports event ever. We plan our courses so that they are challenging enough for the fitter kids but at the same time achievable for anyone to complete.”

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October 2014

At Team FEAR

At these events, the organisers request that each participant has a parent volunteering for various race duties, making it a special occasion not only for the kids, but for all the parents who help to make it a success.

Two of those parents are Emma and Thorsten Bruce, long-time residents of Discovery Bay, both seasoned trail runners and triathletes themselves.

Their children, nine-year-old Finlay, and 11-year-old Dan, are active and keen participants at multi-sport events in the area, and they took to the disciplines without any prodding or pressure from their parents.

A challenging but fun outdoor adventure awaits participants of this now institutional race, which has quickly become one of the biggest events of its kind for youth in Hong Kong. Now in its 13th year, Team FEAR Junior Challenge is an adventure race for young people age between eight and 18, where teams of two or three swim, run, mountain bike, kayak, climb, coasteer and solve puzzles around DB, in November each year.

It’s the largest race of its kind for young people in the region, with over 500 contestants taking part last year, and an important part of the race is the sponsorship that competitors raise for the local charity Youth Outreach. Over HK$1 million has been donated to Outreach over the past eight years, and the charity reciprocates by providing specialist technical help on race day.

“Team FEAR captures the spirit of adventure racing with elements on land and in water across diverse challenges,” says Steve Corbin, DB resident and the event founder and director. “Each year the route is changed and new elements added, and the route is kept secret from the competitors. When they start they have no idea of where they will go or what will happen next, so they must use a wide range of team working skills to overcome the various challenges.”

Emma Bruce admits it’s the ‘highlight of the year’ for her two boys, with Finlay’s team winning their age group last year and Dan’s team coming second. Other

ACTION

Team FEAR alumni, Kei (15) and Luka Fjelddahl (14) come from impressive stock – their father Chris is a fast trail runner and was an active adventure racer a few years ago, and mother Chiaki has won many of the most competitive running races around the region.

mark. Accordingly, there’s a wide range of fitness levels, not to mention competitiveness between the teams.

Some train religiously for weeks leading up to the event, and are in it to win it, while other teams are happy to walk the course, content with a finish.

Both the Fjelddahl teens enjoy the challenge of adventure races and crosscountry running, with Kei having a particular penchant for technical downhill running. Their Team FEAR training includes running two to four times a week, plus weekly swims.

Regardless of the motivations, there’s no denying that this type of team event is a great way to teach children how to work well with others as a unit, in what can be highly excitable situations.

Team FEAR kids kayak, trail run, coasteer, swim, bike and rock scramble

t Find i

With the course length ranging in difficulty and length according to age – 6 kilometres for the Juniors and 10 kilometres for the Seniors – the first competitors usually cross the finish line in two hours, with all teams generally back within the four-hour

• Lantau Buffalos, www.lantaubuffalos.org The Lantau Buffalos Duathlon includes a 3-kilometre bike ride

Find more clubs and activities

• Team FEAR, www.team-fear.com

at www.arounddb.com

Around DB_Oct2014_PQ.pdf 9/17/2014 2:28:33 PM

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LIFESTYLE

1

M

oving into winter, our homes are about to become, for want of a better word, decorative. It seems our dreams of a Spartan, Zen-like future really were just that. The colour of the coming season isn’t grey, it’s silver, and the mood is more retrospective than space age. High tech hasn’t morphed into high style, and we are more than ready to trade sleek for glam.

Photos courtesy of Jane Clyde

The best homemakers have always depended on decoration to bring a sense of comfort, warmth and individuality to their living spaces.

Right now, we want our home comforts but more than that, we want a taste of old-world luxury. There’s a collective feeling of nostalgia, and for just a little excess.

The last time this happened was in the war-torn 1940s when modernist philosophy met classicism, and a distinctively ornamental style, classical modernism, came into being. It seems that beset by harsh economic and political realities, we look to interior design to cushion the blow. Just as hemlines go up when world economies prosper, interior design gets dressy and just a little bit decadent when times are bad.

MODERN LUXE Minimalism’s long run as home decor’s default style is far from over but decorative design is making a very definite comeback.

Jane Clyde reports Then as now, the decorative look pays homage to the classical past, with designers taking a fresh look at what came before, while celebrating the novel and the new. Modern need not mean minimalist, nor does it demand a rejection of history.

The trick is to combine an eclectic mix of classically inspired or antique furniture, within a pared-back setting.

The feel remains contemporary, since just a few key pieces are used to shape the scheme and ornamentation is carefully controlled.

As an arbiter of timeless good taste, English society decorator Nicky Haslam has perfected this look. His style is unabashedly opulent; it’s all about craving high-end luxury and old-world glamour, without ostentation. “I think traditional is the

best,” Haslam says. “I like to create utterly comfortable places that make life feel good. The Louis XVI world got it perfectly right.”

Defined as modern luxe, classical modernism’s latest incarnation is theatrical, showy and more than a little camp. It’s decadent and historically derived – pure Christian Lacroix. And it isn’t the preserve of huge rooms in historic houses, it works wonderfully in constrained living spaces, even right here in little old Lantau.

The challenge is to balance comfort with constraint, old with new, the practical with the desirable. Modern luxe celebrates the minimal, the modern and the pure. At the same time, it delights in the beauty, charm and integrity that informed the furnishings of the classical past.  October 2014

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Modern luxe isn’t the preserve of huge rooms in historic houses, it works wonderfully in constrained living spaces, even right here in little old Lantau

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LIFESTYLE

Get the look!

1 Modern luxe champions decadence and whimsy, drama and individuality and nowhere is this felt more strongly than in the latest bathroom designs. Vessel, the hammock bathtub by Splinter Works, pictured, pushes the boundaries since it is reminiscent of a classic, claw-footed Victorian tub but at the same time, it looks exactly like a hammock. Set against a pared-back backdrop, this technologically advanced, carbon-fibre tub makes a cool modern statement, while referring directly to the classical past.

2 By daring to be decorative, modern luxe advocates are redefining

what is considered contemporary. Super comfortable, classic pieces (from oversized, padded ottomans to elegant, wing-back chairs) are making a comeback. Seating, whether reproduction or antique, is, for the most part, luxuriously upholstered and extravagantly cushioned.

Silk velvet is currently hot, as is herringbone tweed. Premier pieces exude quality and simplicity, while adding a touch of glamour.

Accents shimmer.

3 A pastiche of different historical styles typically live together in

one room, creating a sense of worldly sophistication and individuality.

The idea is to look to the past to bring a new and original slant to the conventional, which is perceived as ordinary and run of the mill.

Most of the pieces featured in this scheme, from the low-slung bed to the wall-hung TV, are modern, but due to the monochromatic colour scheme and rich use of texture, the overall look is classic and luxurious.

4 Big brands are driving the trend by producing elegant reproductions

that are big on antique details. Even in stores like Ikea or G.O.D., you’ll spot smart little classically informed pieces, featuring a turned wood leg here, a Chesterfield stud there. The latest launches are big on pattern (timeless florals and stripes) and general prettiness.

5 Period crystal chandeliers, interior conversation pieces since

the 17th century, are officially hip. The trend is for larger fixtures that take possession of a room, rather than serving as an unseen architectural element. If your budget won’t stretch to an antique, or a high-end, trad-mod design by the likes of Swarovski or Baccarat, rely on decorative, artisan-made lamps to introduce the wow factor. Look out for reinterpreted classics in bewitching black crystal, glass mosaic, or brilliantly hued Perspex and aluminium.

6 Achieving the ultimate in classic cool, this scheme exudes seemingly

effortless good taste. The sumptuous, tone-on-tone furnishings are in no way over the top; here there is no danger of modern luxe turning into kitsch. Past and present find shared principles and the result is a harmonious and extremely liveable whole.

Find more on stylish living

at www.arounddb.com

October 2014

77

FINANCIAL PLANNING ASK THE EXPERT Who am I?

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

My thoughts

I understand we all go through different stages of life and so do our insurance needs. What’s more in recent years, after so many bank scandals and product scandals (think mini-bonds), many investment-linked insurance products have become over regulated, and unappealing.

So what coverage do you really need in order to protect yourself and your family? What products are viable and essential when times are tough? My advice? Go back to the safe, traditional products, such whole-life, term-life and education plans.

Life insurance What you are looking for is guaranteed whole-life insurance, which equates to life insurance + dividends + savings with a fixed cash out.

Note that with whole-life insurance you can also set payment/ contract terms. Payments can be made monthly or annually. And in addition, you can opt to pay a fixed amount over 10, 15 or 20 years and then never have to make a payment again.

For people with kids and/ or mortgages, top-quality term-life insurance is particularly essential. When researching a product, look out for high death benefits and low premiums.

With term-life you can cancel anytime upon annual renewal.

Of course whole life-insurance products include: • Underwriting considerations • Medical exams • Suicide clauses • Waivers of premiums • Periods of contestability So, in addition to examining your needs and budget, be sure to do your homework and read the small print.

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

HK HAPPENINGS

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH! Get your event listed at www.arounddb.com

er 1

www.jbanalytics.blogspot.com

NATIONAL DAY

Octob

Victoria Harbour, TST

Watch the spectacular, annual firework display, marking the founding of the People’s Republic of China (October 1, 1949).

The fireworks are launched from barges located along the harbour, so you can see them from all over Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. For the best viewing spots, head to Tsim Sha Tsui (TST), and make sure you get there early to beat the crowds!

Showtime is at 8pm. For enquiries, call 2591 1340.

Fundraiser FOR DOGS! Youth Square, Chai Wan Help the non-profit Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation raise funds for a new venue for stray, abandoned, sick and injured dogs, by attending a charity fundraiser, from 3pm to 5pm.

In celebration of World Animal Day (October 4), there’s a talk by top animal communicator Rosina Maria Arquati. Tickets cost HK$200. To reserve a seat, call 6089 4727, or email rosinatalk888@gmail.com.

er Octob

er 1

Octob

www.saikung.com

10-12

www.hkclassiccars.com

FINE ART ASIA October

4-7

HK Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wanchai

View a range of collectible antiques presented by 100 leading international galleries at the 10th edition of Fine Art Asia. Items on show include ancient Chinese and Himalayan bronzes, Chinese ceramics, antique furniture, textiles, jade and fine art jewellery. Tickets, available at the door, start at HK$50 (for students and seniors) and a HK$200-ticket admits two adults. Admission is free for kids under 12. Visit www.fineartasia.com.

OPEN GOLF CHAMPS! Hong Kong Golf Club, Fanling Top golfers are gearing up for one of the SAR’s biggest annual sporting events: the Hong Kong Open Championship. The event, which has been running for more than 50 years, sees the best golfers in Asia competing against their European counterparts. As well as catching all the action live, you can also sign up for complimentary golf lessons from the pros. For tickets, starting at HK$150 (kids under 15 get in for free), visit www.cityline.com.

Vintage CAR FEST Central Harbourfront, Central Some 100 classic cars (and motorbikes) are on show at the Hong Kong Classic Car and Vintage Festival. You can expect automotive talks and demonstrations, vintage vendors and a period beauty salon. There’ll be live music and dancing, plus go-carting and model building for the kids. For tickets, starting at HK$100, visit www.classiccar.ticketflap.com; for more information, www.hkclassiccars.com.

October

16-19 www.hkga.com

October 2014

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HK HAPPENINGS

Friend us on Facebook for event reminders

media.npr.org

GERMAN BIERFEST Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, TST

er 17–8 b o t c O ember Nov

Celebrate Oktoberfest from 6pm each night. Not only can you wash your pretzels and wurst down with a fine selection of German beers, you can also enter beer drinking competitions and enjoy traditional folk music played by The Notenhobler from Germany. For tickets, starting at HK$140 for adults, visit www.hkticketing.com; for more information, visit www.gbfhk.com.

Celebrating CELLO! Some 100 cellists are accompanied by 40 hand-bell ringers in Celebrating Cello!, a concert being put on by the Hong Kong International Cello Association at 8pm.

Cellists performing include members of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and Cellistra, the Hong Kong cello ensemble.

For tickets, starting at HK$120, visit www.urbtix.hk; for more information, visit www.hkcello.com.

er 23 www.hkcello.com

Enjoy Oktoberfest at one of Hong Kong’s best German restaurants!

1 Berliner, DB, Lan Kwai Fong

(LKF), Wanchai and Olympian City, 2987 8203 (DB), www.cafedecogroup.com.

Known for its meat turnovers and roasted suckling pig. Beer lovers can choose from big brands like Erdinger Weissbier and Holsten Pilsener.

2 Biergarten German Bar and

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, TST

Octob

Top 4 GERMAN RESTAURANTS!

er 26

Octob

www.actionasiaevents.com

Action Asia MSIG HK50!

Peak Galleria, The Peak Get set for the first leg in the Action Asia MSIG HK50 Series. The 24-kilometre and 50-kilometre races both start at 7.30am.

Course entry starts at HK$580. The next event in the series, heading out from Tung Chung on December 6, will include an 88-kilometre race for the first time. Find out more at www.actionasiaevents.com.

Restaurant, TST, 2721 2302, www.biergarten-hongkong.com.

Germany’s number one draught beer, Bitburger is on offer, as well as popular pints like König Pilsener and Wernesgrüner.

Classic dishes include homemade apple strudel with vanilla sauce.

3 Brotzeit, TST, 2316 2666,

www.brotzeit.co. The menu is big on culinary specialties, such as potato dumplings, homemade cream cheese and all-meat platters, inspired by traditional Bavarian cuisine.

4 Schnurrbart German Pub and

Restaurant, LKF and TST, 2523 4700 (LKF). The pork knuckle is ever-popular with the regulars, as is the selection of rare imported pilsners. Take your pick from 28 different types of schnapps.

HALLOWEEN HIJINKS! Ocean Park

Head to Ocean Park this Halloween as it transforms into a horror film studio, featuring seven haunted attractions.

As well as enjoying the horror movies and scary rides, the brave of heart can enter H14, a haunted house designed to 1 3 r e challenge the fright tolerance of guests, as they complete Octob different tasks to advance through a series of locked www.oceanpark.com.hk chambers. Visit www.oceanpark.com.hk.

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www.cafedecogroup.com

www.hungryhk.blogspot.com

DB FACES

COMMUNITY SNAPS!

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

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

Photos by Baljit Gidwani

Post a review to win prizes!

Congratulations to last month’s winner Nick Jones!

Please call us on 2987 0577 to collect your prize.

This is your chance to win a cup of Uncle Russ coffee, or a beer from The Pier Bar, every day for a week!

To enter this competition, all you have to do is post a review of Uncle Russ or The Pier Bar at www.arounddb.com. From the homepage, you click on the competitions link and choose the Uncle Russ competition page. Once there, you can opt to write a review of Uncle Russ or The Pier Bar. You can get there directly by clicking on the appropriate QR code. Good luck!

View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

Alcoholics Anonymous

NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO?  Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH XTREME & RDB TEENS

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

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

If you want to stop, we can help.

No dues or fees.

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

 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

View local BUSINESS DIRECTORIES @ www.arounddb.com ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A mESSENGER? Michael, an Indian HK resident living on Lantau, seeks post of delivery person for mail/ documents/ small packages.

Full- or part-time. Call 9145 6731 DB/TC PRImARY SCHOOL SEEKS Admin assistant (FT/PT) & learning support assistant (FT/PT). Excellent command of English &/or Cantonese.

Mature, hardworking & detail-oriented.

Attractive remuneration package for the right candidates. Email your full CV to hr@dmk.edu.hk LOOKING FOR EmPLOYmENT Kumudu, looking for work as a full-time helper. Good at cooking, looking after new-borns, children & pets, Kumudu’s contract finishes at the end of October.

From Sri Lanka, she has worked in HK for 15 years. Call 9733 4600

DB-BASED REALTOR SEEKS EAA-LICENSED AGENTS Must have a good command of spoken & written English & Cantonese, an extra language is an advantage. Strong communication & interpersonal skills, mature outgoing personality, proactive, hardworking & detail oriented.

Attractive remuneration package for the right candidates.

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

FINANCE & INSURANCE

HOME & REPAIRS

PETS

AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS

EXPERT MOVER

GOOD NEWS FROM PETCODB

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

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY

Quit smoking quickly.

Divorce/ Post-Divorce Coaching.

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

HOME & REPAIRS NEED SPACE/ STORAGE?

Humidity controlled, small/ large storage space, short or long term.

Competitive rates. Call 2566 4799 or visit www.expertmover.hk

• 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

Micro Bubble Bath using Nano technology for pets is now available at PetcoDB. This penetrating clean powers deep into the pores, restoring fur condition, regaining moisture & providing relaxation. No shampoo is used.

Recommended for pets with skin allergies, dermatitis & body odour.

Call 2914 0382

RETAIL

GOLDING DECORATION UK

House painter, very experienced in maintenance work, & hanging wallpaper & artwork. 100% customer satisfaction guaranteed. Fast, clean & tidy, providing down-to-earth prices.

Call Colin on 9074 5231

ABBELIO WINES

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

Free delivery & special offer for Discovery Bay residents.

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

KIDS

DB MARINA CLUB DEBENTURES

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

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

Or one that is expiring or coming up for extension?

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

A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play.

Activities to stimulate all areas of development. Come & look at our facilities. Classes for kids from 20 months to 4 years. Morning & afternoon sessions. Call 9511 2107, or visit www.earlyadventures.net

Birth & Postnatal Support Antenatal Classes Breastfeeding support Placenta remedies

Jeanne Hauguel

DOULA

Trust in yourself when it matters...

© Cyril Almeras

EMPLOYMENT

6496 4318 | jeanne@doulabirthstory.com | www.doulabirthstory.com

October 2014

85

View local BUSINESS DIRECTORIES @ www.arounddb.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)

Looking for a new place to buy or rent?

Come and say Boo! to the gang at Mypetshop in the North Plaza.

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

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October 2014

View local BUSINESS DIRECTORIES @ www.arounddb.com SERVICES NOTARY SERVICES

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

TRAVEL CONCORdE TRAVEL

Leisure Travel and Cruise specialists since 1978.

Call 2526 3391 or visit www.concorde-travel.com Licence No 350343

TUITION & COURSES PIANO LESSONS

One-on-one classes provided by a professional piano teacher with over 20 years’ experience.

At Caribbean Coast. For a free trial call Miss Chui on 9467 4633

CLARINET/ SAXOPHONE/ FLUTE TUITION

Available in DB from professional musician with 25 years’ teaching experience & graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester, UK. Contact 9413 0498, janetwilliams.clarinet@gmail.com

CHINESE (MANdARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH

TUITION & COURSES

JAPANESE PRIVATE TUITION

Native speaker, 10 years’ teaching experience in HK. Any level/ Any purpose/ JLPT. Contact 6050 1731, (WhatsApp, LINE, Viber) micado66@netvigator.com

“The Clean 9 is an aloe-vera based program that will leave you slimmer, cleaner and healthier in 9 days. Personalized support and a tailor-made menu plan will be provided.”

SCIENCE TUTOR

British-educated teacher with Honours Bachelor Degree, qualified teacher status & over 10 years’ experience.

Offers tutoring in KS3 & IGCSE (all Sciences), A’ Level & IB (Physics).

To reserve a place, email mr_m_walker@yahoo.co.uk

Deadline for November issue classifieds

October 10

Tel: Monica 9211 3322 Email: monica.pswong@gmail.com Website: foreverlivinghk.weebly.com

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

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

Personal Professional Tutoring Service.

• Curriculum: HSK, IB, GCSE, SAT • ESF & all international schools, Year 1 to 13 • For students & adults (homework/ exams/ business) • Mother-tongue Chinese tutors from the PRC (Levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) • Mathematics tutors (UK B SC) • Native English tutors.

(MA in Education, specialising in Early Childhood Stage) Contact 9107 5655, graciasx@hotmail.com, or visit www.chinesemandarinsite.com

LEARN SPANISH

Native speaker. DELE examiner.

Experienced teacher. IB, IGCSE, A-Levels & HKDSE. Business Spanish, & courses for adults. Flexible schedule & locations. (Special offers to students who live in DB & Tung Chung).

Contact Erik R on 9666 9511, rerikm@hotmail.com

MANdARIN CHINESE CLASSROOM

In the Greens. Lessons for adults & children, individually & in small groups.

Any level/ time/ purpose.

Call 6071 9643, or visit http://tclearning.sinacool.com

FRENCH TUITION

Learn or improve your French with a HKUSpace adjunct lecturer. Tailormade lessons to suit your needs.

Contact Karine on 9338 1961, or email 88karina@live.fr

October 2014

87

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

PROPERTY DB

MODERN 1-BEDROOM FLAT

DELUXE SERVICED APARMENTS

Spacious open layout. Quiet, high floor.

Fully equipped kitchen. Shower. Washer/ dryer.

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

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

For lease. Fully furnished 1-2-bed apartments with beautiful decor, wi-fi & broadband. Well-equipped kitchen, luxurious bedding, weekly cleaning service. Contact Cherry on 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com

STUDIO CLOSE TO PIER 2-BED APARTMENT At Greenmont Court, nice & fully furnished.

Contact 9108 5525

Comfortable, nicely decorated studio, close to DB Plaza & pier, with fully equipped kitchen. TV, DVD, wi-fi, linens & towels provided. Contact 9190 7348, niceroom_db@yahoo.com.hk

GREENDALE COURT 2-BED NEW 1-BED APARTMENT Brand-new, fully furnished, 533’ 1-bed apartment in Greendale Court. Deluxe renovation, on a high floor, with mountain view. Call 9108 5525

800’ 2-bed flat with balcony & nice sea view.

Fully furnished, with wi-fi internet access.

Contact Sonya on 5241 9806, syeung72@hotmail.com

CHERISH COURT TO LET SERVICED APARTMENTS SIENA 2 Quiet with sea views, near Club Siena & tunnel.

Fully furnished, with bed linen & kitchenware.

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

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

Contact Jacqueline 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

NEW 1-BEDROOM

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

Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

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

PROPERTY OVERSEAS

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

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

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

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

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October 2014

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

Free online at www.aussieproperty.com

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

Wireless internet access, sala, bar & BBQ area.

Kitchen is fully equipped with laundry area.

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

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

SOUTH LANTAU

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

AQ Prettiness Jumping Castles Shoesee Foldable

FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

9527 6202 9662 1747 5502 6128 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

360° Sports Bar & Restaurant Airport Izakaya Andante Asian Taste Chef’s Express Deli Viet Bistro Delifrance Café Aficionado China Coast Bar & Grill Dragon Inn Erawan Essence Federal Palace Restaurant McDonald’s Delivery Moccato Olea Pizza Hut Regala Café & Dessert Bar Rouge Skycity Bistro Spaghetti House Starz Wine Bar Zentro Garden

2109 4360 2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4360 6504 4208 2109 0036 2109 4187 2286 6238 2286 6898 2286 6878 3760 6633 3602 8808 2626 0181 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 3180 0000 2286 6618 2286 6868 3969 1888 2109 1297 2109 0612 2802 8000

HEALTH & WELLBEING

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

2786 9699 3147 4088 2185 6550 2109 9396 2109 2288 2988 1534 2328 7282 2109 6800 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488 HOTELS

Novotel Citygate Regal Airport Hotel Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott

3602 8888 2286 8888 3969 1888

9021 1502 2987 8070 2162 5538 6273 7347 6976 8867 3520 3500 2611 9193 2164 7210 2420 1068 2109 3873 2109 4962 3194 5120 2988 8123

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

Caribbean Coast Club House Coastal Skyline Club House Impact Fitness Seaview Crescent Club House Smash Cricket Socatots Stepz Studio Tung Chung Crescent Club House

2109 9277 2179 6678 6902 2250 3473 8700 5400 4109 2385 9677 3152 7535 2403 6770

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

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

2984 0222 2984 1847 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 2980 3002 2984 8708 2984 8933 5465 5511 3489 1282 5402 4154 2984 7982 2984 0418 2984 1265 9022 5737 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2980 2699

HEALTH & WELLBEING

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

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

Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering Mantech Electrical Wah Sing AV Company

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 2819 6823 2984 0587 HOTELS

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES

Buddhist Fat Ho College Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten

2985 5150 2984 0302 2980 3676 3689 6709 2984 0006

PROPERTY AGENCIES

LEARNING CENTRES

Clement Art School Discovery Mind International Play Centre Greenfield International Kindergarten Kidznjoy Kindermusik Little Academy Salala Kids House Soundwaves English Education Centre Sun Island Education Foundation Sunshine House International Preschool Tung Chung Catholic School (Yat Tung) Tung Yan Day Nursery YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College

LANTAU NUMBERS

2988 8282 2988 1809 3661 1694

Home Solutions Real Estate Proper Trip Real Estate

3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

Bikes Mui Wo BMX Shop Friendly Bike Shop Lantau Base Camp Red Hall Chinese Antiques Renge House (clothes & accessories) The Red Lantern ZenvarA

2134 1234 2984 2278 5463 6060 2988 1368 2984 0080 2984 0099 9586 3459

SERVICES & OTHERS

Hop Sing Automobile Jumping Castles SPCA Suzanne Goodwin Photography Thai Palin Massage Twig (Design Studio)

2984 1410 9662 1747 2984 0060 9025 3949 3114 0030 6351 8923 TRANSPORTATION

Lee Hing Loong Hon Kee Transportation Company Lantau Tours New Lantau Bus Company Sun Rising Moving Company

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848 2984 7918

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

DB NUMBERS

LEARNING CENTRES

COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza 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 IMI (Natural Medicine Clinic) Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza

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

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

2812 2660 2987 8226 3480 1348 2987 8460 2987 2098

DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven Convenience Store Fusion by PARKnSHOP Just Green Watson’s Pharmacy Wellcome

2987 4401 2987 7486 2448 1180 2987 4089 2947 9092

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

2233 3000 2682 1210 2987 1851

HOME Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Home Services Engineering Hung Kee Co Interior 18 Japan Home Centre Next Furniture Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre

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

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

9632 4287

British Studio of Art Hong Kong

New art studio in DB for 2 year-olds to adults www.bsoahk.com bsoahk@gmail.com 9132 5249

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

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

October 2014

Future Stars Dance Academy

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

2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

HK School of Highland Dance Highland Dance classes now available at MI Studio.Teacher qualified by the SDTA. All ages welcome 9123 0863 highlanddancehk@gmail.com

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

2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk

9511 2107 9380 5771 2416 3088 8191 0813 2987 8608 2987 0813 2987 8143 2987 4217

MULTIMEDIA Bookazine, North Plaza Dymocks & Gallery Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd Fun to Read, North Plaza Movieland Pen’n Paper P-Solution

2987 1373 2987 8494 2914 2378 3105 3588 2987 7111 2987 8898 2987 1777

OTHER SERVICES

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

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

9327 0507 littleexplorers@team-fear.com

Midget Gems Kids Club 2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 0061 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428

LEARNING CENTRES

90

LEARNING CENTRES Early Adventures Learning Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten, North Plaza Treasure House

Established playgroup for children 2-4 years in DB Plaza 6341 5764 dbmidgetgems@gmail.com www.midgetgemskidsclub.com

At Home in DB Information & Services for Residents of DB. Expat Relocation, Newcomer Orientation, Tours, Courses, Networking 9769 4701 sue@athomeindb.com www.athomeindb.com

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

PetcoDB

Playtime Kids DB Playgroup run by Montessori-trained teacher. From 18 months to 4 years. 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com

Let us take the stress out of homework Homework Club and Private Tutoring, conveniently located.

9522 3297 info@wiseowl.com.hk www.wiseowl.com.hk

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

5369 2329 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151

REAL-ESTATE AGENCIES

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

6108 9131 woodentotsdb@gmail.com Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet

6114 2436 2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2914 2202 2987 1201 2987 4338

Around DB’s November issue coming out

November 1

AQUABLU

Boat / Yacht Sales & Brokerage - Berths/Debentures.

- Marine Insurance - Marine Problems/Resolution 6017 7802 Oceanblu@netvigator.com

Lifestyle Boats & Homes 2914 0888 info@lifestylehomes.com.hk www.lifestylehomes.com.hk Centaline Property Agency Ltd EPS Property Consultants Ltd Headland Homes Hong Kong Boats & Homes Kingsland DB Land Master Property Savills Hong Kong Ltd

2987 8484 2987 2023 2987 2088 6055 0146 2987 2987 2987 6238 2987 1919

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com RESTAURANTS & HOTELS

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

Movement Improvement Pilates, Yoga, Spinning, TRX, Zumba, Personal Training The complete solution on your doorstep at DB North Plaza 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk

% Arabica Coffee Roaster & Farm DB North Plaza 2885 1312 info@arabica.hk www.arabica.hk 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Berliner Café Duvet Caramba Mexican Cantina Ebeneezer’s First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay Figos Seaside Café il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza Kiraku Tei Koh Tomyums La Création Bakery Life Cafe McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant Solera Subway Super Super The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zaks

2987 2298 2295 8288 2987 8203 2987 0966 2987 2848 2987 0036 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 2915 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 2886 2987 0767 2987 1829 2591 1422 2987 8280 2987 1337 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2555 0772 2914 0005 2914 1308 2777 8411 2682 0068 2682 8110 2987 6232

Sportsmanship Gymnastics Programs, Health Consultancy, Weight Management & Nutritional Supplements 2870 3524 www.sportsmanship.usana.com

“Everyone is a swimmer” Affordable Swimwear, training equipment & accessories.

9725 3142 www.baysideaquatics.hk

24-hour Customer Service Hotline China Light & Power Emergency China Light & Power Information Line Discovery Bay Commercial Services Discovery Bay Fire & Ambulance Discovery Bay Management Discovery Bay Medical Services Discovery Bay Office Centre Discovery Bay Police Discovery Bay Post Office Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Report Room San Hing Gas Co Typhoon Signal Enquiries Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department

3651 2345 2728 8333 2678 2678 2987 4242 2987 7502 2238 3601 2525 6798 2238 3388 2987 4052 2987 6046 2435 4511 2988 2369 2987 6738 2835 1473 2811 0788 2824 5000

WELLBEING

Sports World All your sporting needs right here in DB 2914 1323 info@sportsworld.hk

A Mother’s Touch

Specialists in Pregnancy & Newborn Care Tel: 2851 9654 clientservices@amotherstouch.com.hk www.amotherstouch.com.hk

The HIT Room Bodypump, Grit Strength, Boxing, Core, TRX, High Intensity Training.

Located at North Plaza 6621 7410 www.thehitroom.com.hk info@thehitroom.com.hk

Child & Family Development Practice Developing potential, exploring possibilities 2914 2223 www.childdevelopment.com.hk info@childdevelopement.com.hk

Tinytots A professional sports play program specially designed for children 16 months - 5 years of age.

34887724 info@tinytots.com.hk www.tinytots.com.hk

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

Bayside Aquatics

DB NUMBERS

Club Siena Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club

2987 7382 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381

TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS’ PARTIES Bo Bo House DB Party Lovers Toysland

My Health Coach Lulu Improve your life balance through health and self awareness. I am able to offer a bespoke program just for you.

9154 1570 lulu@myhealthcoachlulu.com www.myhealthcoachlulu.com

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

2987 0614

2987 4230 9132 5249 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES

Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266

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

DARUMA SPORTS Offering Judo classes for adults & children at Discovery College & Community Hall 6244 6093 darumasports@gmail.com

Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more!

6624 8712 susan@embody.hk www.embody.hk

HK Dragons Football Club Football for 2.5- to 14- year old girls and boys 2987 4274 www.dragons.hk

MOW | Grooming & Skin Care

Limousine Rental

Limo service in HK & China • pick up from / to DB Tunnel • direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@gmail.com ACCESSDB Rehabus DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services

6283 9270 2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351 2987 6348 2987 0208 2987 9368

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

2987 0283 6683 5755 2987 2060 2987 4112 2987 9198 2987 7382

View the business directory

@ www.arounddb.com October 2014

91

OUT THERE

LANTAU’S HALF A HOSPITAL

The new North Lantau Hospital, Tung Chung is open. Some of it, anyway.

And like an IQ , having a bit is better than having none. Peter Sherwood reports

W

hen you’re the government you can honeycomb the place with tunnels, build surplus award-winning bridges and find ingenious ways to shrink the harbour, but when it comes to public health we get half a hospital. There’s over US$300 billion in the coffers, yet a visit to the new North Lantau Hospital in Tung Chung, reveals that the good citizens of Lantau are worth only bits and pieces – for outpatients only.

Photo courtesy of www.wikipedia.org

I’d be thrilled to have no basis for whining, but I seem to be drawn to medical facilities like Victoria Beckham to a photo-op. I first visited the new hospital with my son, he for a non-urgent problem, and myself for a condition that could potentially need rip-roaring scrutiny. North Lantau Hospital has a spacious Starship Enterprise interior, but we left the place with less than Tom Cruise at a tall man contest – and a reality jolt.

92

When they said they’d contact me by mail my ‘sensible meter’ flashed to ‘very silly’. In the electronic age and for a worrying condition, this news was about as amusing and potentially efficacious as aromatherapy on a busted nose. Days later the letter arrived. I had an appointment in 16 weeks.

My son also awaited a letter which arrived with unusual bureaucratic haste – and that was the end of ‘quick’.

His consultation was 59 weeks away.

Perspective: in a little over a year, he could walk across Russia from east to west (at an average leisurely hiking rate of 25 kilometres a day), get married and divorced, and have time left to recover (from the marital bliss) on a Mediterranean cruise.

Kick’em out quick A week later I slipped on a wet balcony and injured a leg. Calling 999 brought an ambulance before I could hang up the phone. The emergency department was fast with an X-Ray and fractured ankle diagnosis. Then I was shunted off to a ‘whole’ hospital.

North Lantau is functioning with the basics, so they threw my carcass into another ambulance to Princess Margaret Hospital somewhere in Kowloon. I still don’t know where.

The last time I was on the Kowloon Peninsula I was sleepwalking off a three-day cargo flight at Kai Tak in early 1997.

The doctors patch you up and then you’re on your own: chances of smashing a few vertebrae trying to make it home made for distinctly better odds than the ankle episode.

Deliriously happy to be free of hospital, where at 6am they whack up the lights like the perimeter of Guantanamo and start throwing congee around, I begged off the porridge while the entire ward froze in mid-mouthful: no breakfast, are you crazy?

I’d have killed for a coffee. And Scotty to beam me home.

Four days in the joint and out you go.

(The cast on my foot made me look like the Elephant Man.) What do you mean you don’t have crutches?

Find more from Peter October 2014

Discovery Bay – what’s that? The problem is pretty fundamental: they are Chinese and I’m not. They all assume my ‘family members’ will crowd around and compete to take care of my bones. When I said I live alone and have no family here they were dumbstruck.

at www.arounddb.com

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

An all new ESF International Kindergarten is coming to Tung Chung

Online Enrolment for K1 opens October 1

Where Inquiry Begins Start your child’s learning journey with ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung Our purpose-built, spacious kindergarten will provide the perfect environment for young learners. As the largest of the ESF Kindergartens, our space is being carefully planned to provide places of beauty that will support learning, stimulate imaginations, nurture children, families and staff, and truly inspire the wonderful memories of childhood.

With well-resourced classrooms, great access to current learning technologies and indoor and outdoor play areas, young children will be presented with multiple opportunities to learn, socialise and develop their skills. Through inquiry-based learning and play, we encourage children’s natural curiosity and creativity, develop their personal and social skills, inspire them with a life-long love of learning and the confidence to fulfil their potential.

To find out more about ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung please give us a call or send an email to kinder@tc.esf.org.hk.

Enrolment opens October 1 for K1 Students entering the 2015/2016 school year. K2 enrolment for Tung is already open.

New! Tung Chung at The Visionary Tel: 3762 2411 Email: kinder@tc.esf.org.hk opening for the 2015/2016 School Year Our other Kindergartens: Abacus at Clearwater Bay an IB World School

Tel: 2719 5712 Hillside on Stubbs Road an IB World School

Tel: 2540 0066 Tsing Yi

an IB World School

Tel: 2436 3355 Wu Kai Sha

an IB World School

Tel: 2435 5291

www.esfkindergartens.org.hk