Around DB December Issue 2016

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

SKI THE KOREAN ALPS FLYBOY MASTERCHEF

BRETT CARTER

WHAT KIDS GET OUT OF GOLF RHINO AMBASSADOR

FINNLEY BURROUGH

GET SET FOR THE

Silly Season ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

Join your community online

Publishers in DB since 2002 DECEMBER 2016

Internationally Accredited Medical Clinics Over 20 Years in Hong Kong

Now Open in Discovery Bay • Specialist Family Medicine • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy • Osteopathy (Coming soon) • Sports Physiotherapy (Coming Soon) Address: Discovery Bay North Plaza, Unit 12, block 2 For appointment, please call 24683577 or email dbrecep@otandp.com • Central • Central Specialist • Central Woman & Chiild • Wanchai • Repulse Bay • Clearwater Bay • Discovery Bay

www.otandp.com

RENTALS/SALES 頤峰 GREENVALE

$23.5K

DECEMBER 2016

寶峰 PARKVALE

$34K

碧濤軒 COASTLINE

$37K / $12.7M

ND ION OU UAT R A AL V NK BA

Gross: 865’ Saleable: 744’ 3

Gross: 1134’ Saleable: 980’

Nicely renovated apartment, balcony with great views and easy access to all transports.

2

倚濤軒 CRESTMONT

$37K

3 2

Lovely open views lowrise, wonderful living space with modern kitchen. Ready to move into.

2

旭暉閣 JOVIAL

$9.8M

T!

AD

LE

Nicely combined unit, spacious layout, open kitchen and in a quiet location. A great place to live.

2

倚濤軒 CRESTMONT

$13.5M

Spacious living, balcony with great views and in a quiet location. Ideal for families.

2

朝暉徑 HEADLAND

2

Modern renovated apartment with terrace, spacious living and great for entertaining. 24hr concierge service.

海澄湖畔 SIENA

$11.8M

4

Well appointed garden house with great sea view.

Close to schools. Popular choice for families.

3

觀灣樓 BAY VIEW

2

$27M/$75K

Gross: 1323’ Saleable: 1085’ 2

Rarely available penthouse duplex! Sweeping sea views from every room. Open kitchen, large private terrace. Vacant Sale! Priced to sell.

1

海蜂徑 SEABEE

ON

W I LO AT BE ALU V NK

AD

AG

LE

Gross: 1703’ Saleable: 1626’

Gross: 1282’ Saleable: 1108’ 2

$36M

T!

EN

BA

3

AG

S

Renovated lowrise, balcony with lovely open views, close to schools and Club Siena. Vacant sale!

海馬徑 SEAHORSE

$13M

T!

EN

E OL

Gross: 1300’ Saleable: 1020’ 3

$100K

Gross: 2099’ Saleable: 2094’

Gross: 1214’ Saleable: 953 3

Gross: 1446’ Saleable: 1220’ 5

$40K

ND ION OU UAT R A AL V NK BA

EN

AG

Good condition, balcony with panoramic sea views and in at tranquil location.

津堤 AMALFI

Gross:1298’ Saleable: 1108’ 3

Gross: 1471’ Saleable: 1282’ 3

Fully renovated throughout, well appointed modern kitchen and south facing with beautiful views. Garden with large outdoor entertaining area. Good for investment.

3 2

Upgraded kitchen, garden with great views and walking distance to DB plaza and pier.

Gross: 3100’ Saleable: 2403’ 4 3

Company sale. Detached house, stunning sea views, spacious living and great for entertaining. Vacant sale!

www.headlandhomes.hk

2987 2088

EAA LIC C-033418

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DECEMBER 2016 FEATURES

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PROFILE Meet DB pilot and MasterChef star Brett Carter

34

IN FOCUS Are you a Grinch?

Would you ban Christmas?

46

PARENTING SMARTS How to simplify the silly season (and speedchill a bottle of wine)

52

FAMILY MATTERS Golfing in DB – getting obsessed at an early age

62

ESCAPES Why South Korea is the place to ski this season

REGULARS

30

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COMPETITION Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com

56

TALKING POINTS What kids gain from treading the boards

60

MOMENTS Finnley Burrough, 7, on his way to saving the rhino

68

DB FACES Candid community snaps

80

OUT THERE Thoughts on island life

AGENDA

60

52

56

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IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news

37

XMAS PULL-OUT GUIDE Eat, drink, shop and be merry!

66

HK HAPPENINGS Find fun things to do across the harbour

71

CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, businesses and more

74

PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent

77

LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

ON THE COVER We also publish…

December 2016/ January 2017

If you have a story idea, email rachel@baymedia.com.hk To publicise a local event, email sam@baymedia.com.hk For general enquiries, email info@baymedia.com.hk To advertise, email connie@baymedia.com.hk Call 2987 0577/ 2787 0886 Fax 2987 0533

SKI THE KOREAN ALPS FLYBOY MASTERCHEF

BRETT CARTER

IS TECH STEALING CHILDHOOD?

Sam and Connor Severn celebrating Christmas in DB

FINNLEY BURROUGH

GET SET FOR THE

Silly Season

ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

Join your community online HIKE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

FAN LAU FORT AND STONE CIRCLE

WHAT KIDS GET OUT OF GOLF RHINO AMBASSADOR

Publishers in DB since 2002

Photo by Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

DECEMBER 2016

Win Gre tick at ets a Par Europe to sho teez an the AIA tick ppin i Chr Carniva ets g vou istm to che as l, in consee Met r and cert allic a

HOW TO RE-ENGAGE AS A FAMILY

TREASURE TROVE AMAZING WILDLIFE ON OUR DOORSTEP

ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

Join your community online

Publishers in Lantau since 2002

For the latest Around DB updates, find us on

and www.arounddb.com

Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk Managing editor Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk Assistant editor Sam Agars sam@baymedia.com.hk Digital strategist & coordinator Claire Severn claire@baymedia.com.hk Advertising & sales manager Connie Cottam connie@baymedia.com.hk Sales account manager Monika Carruthers monika@baymedia.com.hk Office manager Maxine Woodward maxine@baymedia.com.hk Senior graphic designer Andrew Spires andrew@baymedia.com.hk Photography Baljit Gidwani, www.evoqueportraits.com Contributors this month Jennifer Atepolikhine Emily Dowd (intern) Kate Farr Trisha Hughes Patricia Jover Elizabeth Kerr Peter Sherwood Ben Stower Printing Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion, 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong Disclaimer The views expressed in Around DB are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors.

The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.

www.evoqueportraits.com

THE BIG PICNIC THE BIG PICNIC, fresh off a name and venue change, was a massive hit on November 5, following on from its days at Siena Park with an even bigger and better day of amazing live acts.

YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY

IN&AROUND DB

EVENTS

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

www.arounddb.com December 2016

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IN&AROUND DB

TEAM FEAR Another bumper Team FEAR Junior Challenge lit up DB on November 20, with kids aged eight to 18 running, riding, swimming, scrambling, canoeing and more in support of Hong Kong charity Youth Outreach.

Photos by Vincent Ypersiel

Club Siena

Indoor heated pool at Club Siena Professional instruction Perfect safety record since est. 1975 Structured and progressive programme

ENROL NOW Spring Term 3 January - 4 March 2017

swimming@harrywright.com.hk www.harrywright.com.hk (+852) 2575 6279 /HarryWrightInternational

IN&AROUND DB

www.arounddb.com December 2016

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IN&AROUND IN&AROUND DB DB

HARVEY LAW KART RACE Another successful edition of the Harvey Law Kart Race on November 6 saw Louie D’Alterio (7), Cole McKeown (8), Alexander McKenzie (9), Edwin Gustafsson (10), Kyle Tait (11) and James Gordon (12) all come first in their age group.

The HLG Rocket – driven by Jeremy Harvey – was the fastest freestyler and the McKenzie brothers took out best kart design with Pipe Scream.

www.evoqueportraits.com

HALLOWEEN FUN IN DB Magical people were out in force in Midvale Village on October 29 and Headland Drive on October 31, with young and old alike getting into the Halloween spirit.

Photos by Jason Severn and www.evoqueportraits.com

DB 10KM RUN FOR CHARITY

The 12th annual DB 10km Run for Charity on November 12 boasted more than 500 runners and raised a record HK$192,033 for The Hub HK, a youth centre in Sham Shui Po helping disadvantaged children.

The 2016 race winner was once again DB local Thomas Kiprotich, in 33 minutes and 21 seconds, while female winner Kelly Kjestrup made it home in 41:13.

www.evoqueportraits.com

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December 2016 www.arounddb.com

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www.arounddb.com December 2016

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IN&AROUND DB

BOX OF HOPE Photos by Danielle Hull and courtesy of DC and DMK

November’s Box of Hope was a great success, with schools, kindergartens and learning centres across Lantau pitching in to provide useful and educational gifts for underprivileged children in Hong Kong and across Asia.

OPERATION SANTA CLAUS November 19 saw the 11th annual Discovery Mind Operation Santa Claus Sponsored Walk wind its way from Discovery Mind Kindergarten to Siena Park, with walkers greeted at their destination by the Around DB-sponsored clown and other entertainment.

www.arounddb.com

LANTAU BUFFALOS DUATHLON Some 100 children turned out on November 5 for the Lantau Buffalos Duathlon, competing over a run-ride-run challenge.

An awards ceremony followed at Bayside Dental and some of the proceeds raised were donated to Plastic Free Seas.

Photos courtesy of Lantau Buffalos and Chris Barr

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December 2016 www.arounddb.com

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9664 4749 9757 0927 9748 2367

(S-415475) (S-287062) (E-352962)

NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG

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$36K SHUI HAU VILLAGE HOUSE 2100’ + 800’ Garden + 700’ separate guest house!

Totally unique property in beautiful country surroundings. Main house with 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths inc 1 ensuite, & maids quarters. 2 living areas. Open plan kitchen leads out to garden. Extra house with 1 bed, 1 bath, living area and kitchen. Recommended viewing!

$3.5M 1/F PUI O VILLAGE HOUSE 700’ + Balcony

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Extra benefit of rooftop for entertaining.

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Leveraging its global network providing onestop solutions for secure logistics management of precious and luxury goods, Ferrari Group’s tailor-made secure storage space in Hong Kong offers clients private access to their valuables and documents in prime locations across Hong Kong at any time, with 24-hour security.

When time is of the essence, Ferrari Group’s vault will come to you: Our Safe Deposit Service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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With more than half a century of experience and 83 offices in 52 countries, Ferrari Group’s innovative security procedures, import and export practices, customs formalities, supply-chain management, warehousing and logistics services offer privacy and sanctuary for client’s precious documents and commodities. Trust, respect, punctuality and commitment guide our service; our client’s wishes are our mandate.

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IN&AROUND DB

YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

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DB ENTREPRENEURS NETWORKING BREAKFAST

at Zak’s, DB, kicks off at 8am. To find out more, head to the DB Entrepreneurs Networking Breakfast Facebook page or visit www.t8events.com.

Find more information and events @ www.arounddb.com

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JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP,

organised by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, at Nim Shue Wan from 3pm to 5pm. Visit www.dbgreen.org.

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STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET across from Haven Court,

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Photo courtesy of DC

DISCOVERY COLLEGE FAMILY FUN DAY Discovery College Discovery College’s annual fair, running from 12pm to 5pm, offers up food and commercial stalls, live music and entertainment, and new games and activities for children of all ages. The first week of December is also the Discovery Culture Festival, with the school abuzz with workshops, master classes, shows, exhibitions and a range of performances. For more information on either event, contact pta@dc.edu.hk or head to www.discovery.edu.hk.

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Discovery Bay Community Hall, DB North Plaza

ber 3 Discovery Mind Educational Decem Organisation and Watoto Hong Kong are holding a free concert open to all.

The Uganda-based Watoto Children’s Choir has travelled internationally since 1994, raising awareness about the plight of Africa’s orphaned Photo courtesy of Watoto children through its stories, music and dance. Oh, What Love children’s charity concert runs from 7pm to 8pm.

For more information, visit www.discoverymind.edu.hk.

2pm to 4.45pm. For more information, call 2238 3617.

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CHILDREN’S CHARITY CONCERT

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

DB GOLFING Discovery Bay Golf Club Golfers come into their own in DB in December, with the Discovery Bay Residents Golf Society holding its Annual Championship on December 9 and The Big Sai Wan holding its Masters on December 12. To get involved, visit www.dbrgs.com or www.bigsaiwan.com. For more information, turn to page 52.

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www.evoqueportraits.com

SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET

Like us on IN&AROUND DB www.facebook.com/ AroundDB for event reminders

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in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm.

ARTISTS ABROAD PRESENTS KALEIDOSCOPE

CHANUKAH IN THE PLAZA DB Plaza

The Rotunda, Exchange Square, Central Artists Abroad is hosting -23 ber 12 m e c its 22nd Annual Exhibition, e D with the work of Discovery Bay residents Eleanor McColl and Carolina Kollmann and renowned Lantau artist Martin Lever among the lineup. At the opening reception on December 13, from 6pm Photo courtesy of Artists Abroad to 9pm, you can expect jazz and canapés, as well as the kaleidoscopic art. Everyone is welcome. Find out more at www.artistsabroadhk.com.

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Photo by Ya’ara Delgoshen

Into its sixth year, Chanukah in the Plaza, celebrating the Jewish Festival of Lights, runs from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. You can watch Lantau’s largest Menorah being lit, and the free carnival includes rides and arts-and-crafts workshops. For more information, visit www.jewishlantau.com.

CONGRATULATIONS UNCLE RUSS

HONG KONG’S FIRST FOREST SCHOOL

Photo courtesy of DBIS Photo courtesy of Uncle Russ

Congratulations to YB Rai of Uncle Russ on being named a Distinguished Family-Friendly Employer at the Hong Kong Government’s Family-Friendly Employers Awards, 2015/ 16.

The award is a step up from the Family-Friendly Employer Award Uncle Russ won in 2013/ 14. YB hopes his success will inspire the continuation and improvement of good employee conditions in Discovery Bay and throughout Hong Kong.

Based on a programme formalised by the Forest School Association in the UK, Discovery Bay International School has become the first school in Hong Kong to take on the principles of the programme and become a ‘Forest School’.

Running at the school’s Early Years Campus, Forest School sessions take place every week giving children a unique opportunity to investigate the natural world, work as a team, construct and build and begin to develop an awareness of their impact on the environment. www.arounddb.com December 2016

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IN&AROUND DB

e v i t s e f XMAS HAPPENINGS d n a Fun

DBIS CAROLS ON ber 8 ecem D THE PITCH Discovery Bay International School

Parents, families and friends are all welcome at Discovery Bay International School’s (DBIS) annual Carols on the Pitch, kicking off at 5.30pm. Expect performances from the DBIS orchestra, the Year Photo by Terry Chow 1 and Year 2 singing club, and the primary and secondary choirs, plus the newly formed Inventum Women’s Choir. Enjoy mulled wine and hot chocolate, and an after-concert Santa’s Grotto. To find out more, call 2987 7331.

MEET SANTA AT BOOKAZINE

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Bookazine, DB Main Plaza From 2pm to 4pm, head down to Bookazine and add a bit of magic to your festive season. To register, contact enquiries@bookazine.com.hk.

NATIVITY IN THE PLAZA DB Plaza and Tai Pak Wan Nativity in the Plaza, organised

by Discovery Bay International Community Church, Discovery Bay Church and the Church of the Incarnation, runs from 4pm to 6pm on December 18. Enjoy Christmas carols and a narration of the nativity. The Christmas celebrations continue on Tai Pak Wan from 6.30pm on December 24. Email office@dbicc.org.

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ENJOY A PHOTO OP WITH SANTA at Club Siena on December 24 and 25 or get involved in the Christmas Fun Day between 1pm and 5pm on December 18. Call 3156 7403.

HAVE YOUR XMAS TURKEY

(and all the trimmings) delivered to your door by the Discovery Bay Golf Club (DBGC) or the Discovery Bay Recreation Club (DBRC). To place an order, call the DBRC on 2500 1827 (club members get a discount), or the DBGC on 2987 7090.

CELEBRATE AT THE AUBERGE DB North Plaza

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

ber Decem6 & 31 ,2 24, 25

Head down to the Auberge on Christmas Day, from 11am to 12pm, for a meet-and-greet with Santa, and on New Year’s Eve for a fun-filled www.wikimedia.org countdown party with a live band. You can also enjoy a five-course festive dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at the Bounty Bar, as well as scrumptious festive lunch and dinner buffets at Café bord de Mer on December 24, 25, 26 and 31. Visit www.aubergediscoverybay.com.

EPICLAND’S WINTER WONDERLAND EpicLand, DB North Plaza

www.arounddb.com

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Lap up the Christmas games and decorations, lucky draw and face painting at EpicLand’s Winter Wonderland. Of course, all the usual family-friendly activities such as trampolines, air trek, slides, mini golf and rock climbing are also on offer. For more information, call 2441 0098 or visit www.epiclandhk.com.

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Photo courtesy of Epicland

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Xmas Sale

OZZIE COZZIE

at IMI Dispensary From now until 24th December, come to IMI Dispensary in Discovery Bay and enjoy special savings on pure and potent clinical-grade supplements!

Save 15% when you buy 3 or more supplement items from these top brands*: • Innate Response • BioCeuticals • MedLab

• Vital Nutrients • Omega Nutrition

Selected supplements and products are up to 20% Off.

skincare

* Discount is for in-store purchase only, and does not apply to prescription items. While supplies last.

NEW ARRIVALS FOR CHRISTMAS

Visit us in North Plaza Today!

www.ozziecozzieco.com

G-02 Office Block Two, North Plaza www.imi.com.hk Phone: 2537 1087

503 Tak Woo House, 1-3 Wo On Lane, L.K.F., Central

Enquiries: 2810 1356

IN&AROUND DB

NEW IN DB OT&P HEALTHCARE Discovery Bay North Plaza

Photo courtesy of OT&P Healthcare

OT&P Healthcare offers specialist family medicine and cognitive behavioural therapy services, with physiotherapy and osteopathy soon to come. Since opening in 1994, OT&P has grown from one medical practice to an internationally accredited group known for its dedication to healthcare excellence and involvement in community healthcare issues.

Visit www.otandp.com.

MY MEAT MAN Discovery Bay

Photo courtesy of My Meat Man

My Meat Man provides high-quality Australian meat products at a fair price and now delivers to both South Lantau and Discovery Bay. My Meat Man is the first to offer King Island Beef, which is globally recognised as one of the premium grass fed steaks in the world, outside of Australia. My Meat Man makes its own line of sausages, hamburgers, kebabs and mince daily. Email info@mymeatman.com, or call 2552 5516.

HEALTHY HAPPY HOUR

HOW TO CLEANSE AND EFFECTIVELY ACHIEVE YOUR NEW YEAR’S HEALTH + WEIGHT RESOLUTIONS NATURALLY DECEMBER 14TH, 2016 7:00 8:00 PM

DISCOVERY BAY HONG KONG HKD $150

Jess Lancaster is a first class honours and valedictorian graduate from the Insstute of Holissc Nutriion in Toronto, Canada. She is a Cerrfied Nutriional Praccconer (CNP), and a Board Cerrfied Candidate with the Naaonal Associaaon of Nutriion Professionals in the United States. Jess also holds a BA in Sociology from Queen’s University, and has culminated her interest in social change and natural wellness as a food conservateur – a curator of real food, without modern preservaaves. She praccces as a dynamic and emp empowering nutriion coach, focusing on guiding individual and corporate clients through weight loss and lifestyle detoxificaaon programs in Toronto and worldwide. www.jesslancaster.com @foodconservateur

Congratulations to all the

Participants, Volunteers and Organisers of the

UNCLE RUSS COFFEE Adventure Challenge 2016 Organised by Team FEAR

IN&AROUND DB

LANTAU HIGHLIGHTS MSIG LANTAU VK AND LANTAU 50 Lantau Trail

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LIS SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAIR Tong Fuk campus

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YHKCC INTERNATIONAL FUN FAIR YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, Tung Chung

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www.actionasiaevents.com

Part of the 2016 Asian Skyrunning Championship, the MSIG Lantau VK and Lantau 50 provide an action-packed two days of running. The Lantau VK involves 5 kilometres of vertical trail running and hiking starting at Tong Fuk Wan and finishing on Lantau Peak. On December 4, the Lantau 50 offers 16-, 27- and 50-kilometre races. To find out more, visit www.actionasiaevents.com.

Photo courtesy of YHKCC Photo courtesy of LIS

Vendors from across Lantau and Hong Kong are expected at the Lantau International School Christmas Fair, running from 11am to 4pm. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the games, activities, second-hand clothes and book stalls, as well as a wide range of food. For more information, contact lisadmin@lis.edu.hk.

Running from 11am to 9pm, this year’s YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College International Fun Fair offers up ethnic food, a bazaar, game booths, a bouncy castle and a talent show, as well as an amazing air-balloon ride. The talent show runs from 12pm to 1.30pm (HK$40 entry) and 7pm to 8.30pm (HK$60). For tickets and enquiries, contact Amanda Shek at iff@yhkcc.edu.hk or 2988 2028.

Playgroups in DB EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP, GREENS

PLAYTIME KIDS, CHERISH COURT

A long-running playgroup with bright and spacious facilities. A warm and caring environment where children are offered exciting and interesting activities, so they can achieve their full potential.

A well-established playgroup, run by a Montessori-trained teacher with lots of experience. A great, supporting, stimulating and loving environment for little ones to learn from.

FUNFIT, CLUB SIENA

TREE OF JOY, PENINSULA VILLAGE

An active learning programme which helps develop children’s balance, coordination, fine and gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination and much more. The focus is on caring for kids’ future health and fitness.

A playgroup offering a variety of fun classes in a nurturing and enriching environment. Classes are run by a qualified and experienced teacher.

20 months to 4 years, 9511 2107, info@earlyadventures.net, www.earlyadventures.net

6 months to 3 years, 6302 6327, info@funfit.hk, www.funfit.hk

15 months to 4.5 years, 9054 0565, playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com

14 months to 3 years, 9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com

WOODENTOTS, DB PLAZA

2.5 to 5 years, 6108 9131, woodentotsdb@gmail.com

LITTLE EXPLORERS, PHASE 1

18 months and up, 9327 0507, littleexplorers@team-fear.com An established playgroup, providing a caring and stimulating learning environment with an emphasis on learning through play – and having loads of fun.

A caring and nurturing environment, run by a qualified Montessori teacher, in which children grow and learn through self-discipline and self-discovery.

Find more for kids @ www.arounddb.com

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

COMPETITION

Win a PEEKair air-quality monitor YOUR PRIZE: Peek Concepts is offering two readers a PEEKair PM2.5 air-quality monitor, uniquely calibrated for Hong Kong’s air pollution (worth HK$998 each).

Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions right here). You have until the 10th of this month to submit your answers.

To enter, email info@baymedia.com.hk, click on the competitions link at www.arounddb.com, or scan the QR Code below. Don’t forget How many to give us your name Christmas pantos and telephone number! has the Hong Kong Players performed?

Win tickets to see The Snow Queen

Where can you shop for Peek Concepts products?

Photo courtesy of Hong Kong Players

YOUR PRIZE: Hong Kong Players is offering two readers two tickets (worth HK$290 each) to see The Snow Queen at the Kellett Theatre, Kowloon Bay on December 15 at 7.30pm.

www.peekconcepts.com

FIND THE ANSWER: Established to provide Hong Kong families with air pollution monitors, water testers, cooking thermometers, baby monitors and home safety equipment, Peek Concepts offers a unique product range at affordable prices. Visit the online store at www.peekconcepts.com.

Who wrote Why the Whales Came?

Photo courtesy of ABA Productions

FIND THE ANSWER: The Snow Queen, Hong Kong Players’ 55th Christmas panto, is an exciting tale of love and hate, good and evil, courage and cowardice… and trolls. The show runs from December 11 to 18. For tickets, starting at HK$250, visit www.ticketflap.com.

Win a Faust holiday workshop YOUR PRIZE: Faust International is offering one child a place at one of its Chinese New Year or Easter holiday workshops in Sheung Wan. The former are worth HK$1,790, the latter HK$2,280. Holiday Theatre (for kids aged four to 12) and Creative Writing (for kids aged six to 13) run from February 1 to 3, April 3 to 6 and April 10 to 13.

FIND THE ANSWER: Combining a passion for drama with expert teaching, Faust workshops are a fun learning environment for children aged three to 18.

Kids develop self-confidence and teamwork skills. Visit www.faustworld.com.hk.

Win tickets to see Why the Whales Came YOUR PRIZE: ABA Productions is offering one reader four tickets (worth HK$435 each) to see Why the Whales Came at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai on February 10 at 5pm.

How old do you have to be to train with Faust? www.faustworld.com.hk

FIND THE ANSWER: Multi-award-winning performer and storyteller Danyah Miller brings Michael Morpurgo’s enchanting tale to life, from February 10 to 12, as part of KidsFest 2017. For tickets, starting at HK$195, visit www.hkticketing.com.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Natalie Chappell for Electro Muscle Stimulation sessions at Body Express; Mary Inns for a holiday workshop with Faust International; Emily Clarke for an artwork print from Little Bug Prints; and Maricela Rebolledo for tickets to see The Twits.

28

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

PROFILE

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

COMPETING FLAVOURS

30

DB pilot Brett Carter charts a course for a second career as a restaurateur after wading into the reality TV fray. Elizabeth Kerr reports

Brett Carter placed seventh in the eighth series of MasterChef Australia

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

PROFILE

I

t’s highly likely that most of us have a preconceived notion of what a reality show contestant is. They’re thirsty for attention and wholly immersed in the modern culture of over-sharing, they lack basic life skills and, ironically, are totally out of touch with reality. That’s not the case with Discovery Bay resident and seventh-place finishing MasterChef Australia contestant Brett Carter.

he’s also a father – to teenaged daughters Jamie, 17, and Dylan, 14, currently living in Perth. “When the kids came along I… found myself in the kitchen cooking for them,” Brett says. “Like any good parent I wanted to get good nutrition into them and was trying to come up with different ways to make them eat green stuff.”

Ready for primetime Brett’s stint on the eighth series of MasterChef Australia is rooted in a two-minute conversation he had with his daughter last year. “I was at my sister’s house in Brisbane watching MasterChef with Dylan,” he explains, “and she looks at me and says, ‘Dad, you should do that’.” It was that simple. Brett completed the intense, seven-page application from Hong Kong and got an audition the following week. So off he went to Melbourne, armed with his gear and a couple of favourite recipes (think snapper with clams in a saffron butter sauce), to see if he could beat 2,000 other aspiring master chefs.

’’

“My old man was air force. He didn’t fly, he was air traffic control, but I grew up on military bases. I was always a fan of military aircraft. I got a flying scholarship and it went from there,” Brett explains of the roots of his current job.

The 44-year-old pilot, like many of his co-workers, simply has a side passion he indulges in when he’s not flying the friendly skies. And he couldn’t be less attention-thirsty if he tried. Sitting in a boisterous coffee bar in Central, Brett, a Melbourne native, is jovial and relaxed, and falls on the right side of ‘unserious’ when the occasion calls for it.

It may sound clichéd, but Brett truly lights up when he talks about cooking

Getting to the top three in the Heston Blumenthal elimination was probably one of my favourite moments

Lifelong foodie

A Cathay pilot by profession, Brett would be just as happy spending his days tooling around a kitchen and serving up food as in a cockpit, and though he’s quick to stress he’s an amateur and not a formally schooled chef, he does refer to himself as a lifelong foodie. After 18 years in DB he’s still a fan of the resort – “it’s easy, it’s convenient, relaxed” – though he says “the restaurant scene needs a bit of work”.

Brett counts himself fortunate that he has a job that takes him around the world and enables him to try out all sorts of cuisines. Work frequently took him to the US just as cable television was proliferating and giving the world things like The Food Network. However,

Strangely, Brett was surprised by his own reaction to the first bit of criticism from one of the judges after making it past the first round. “It hit me quite hard. And I was quite disappointed,” he recalls with a laugh. “So I had my moment to myself and I finally decided that at the end of the day I’d done the best I could.

But I was really surprised how hard I took it. I’ve been in aviation a long time and I’ve got quite a thick skin.”

– and conquering misconceptions when he can. “Cooking dinner for me never felt like a chore. You put some music on, have a glass of wine and it’s enjoyable,” he says. When it came to the aforementioned ‘green stuff ’, Brett was determined not to repeat his own boiled Brussels sprout childhood with his girls.

“Your food inspiration is often your food memories. I did a dinner party the other night and the birthday girl rattled off this big long list of things she didn’t eat – because her food memory was boarding school. So in her head she hates fish,” Brett boggles.

“That’s so wrong but that’s how food works.”

As wallflowers need not apply, it’s no surprise Brett made it to the Top 24, and his job as a pilot served him well on challenges, especially when it came to working under pressure and managing time. “They are making a TV show, and for one of the first team challenges I was a captain. And they said to me, ‘What’s the pressure like?

Is this worse than your flying job?’”

Long story short, no story producers (and reality shows indeed have story producers) want to hear that being responsible for hundreds of real lives is more pressure-packed than their show. The magic of TV and all that.

Nonetheless, Brett made it all the way to seventh place. He was ultimately 

www.arounddb.com December 2016

31

PROFILE eliminated in Los Angeles while cooking at Maude, Curtis Stone’s restaurant in Beverley Hills, after having won a Mystery Box Challenge, reached the top three in two Invention Tests and competed for immunity twice. Brett’s level-headedness may have rankled with his producers, but it kept him unflappable when facing eliminations. “I have a career, so if MasterChef didn’t take me it wasn’t the end of the world,” he reasons.

Still, hanging out with celebrity chefs like Marco Pierre White, Heston Blumenthal, Nigella Lawson, Maggie Beer, Shannon Bennett and Curtis Stone was a buzz. “To eat at some of these places and cook with some of these chefs… and have my family watch. It really was such an experience,” he says. “Getting to the top three in the Heston elimination was probably one of my favourite moments.”

Regardless of how memorable Brett found being sequestered, he almost didn’t go. He does, after all, have a full-time job. Thankfully, a WhatsApp group and some cooking fans at work saved the day. “There are so many people I owe,” Brett says, dishing out credit where credit is due.

“My co-worker Joel Crawford managed to organise my whole roster and life while I was away, and my beautiful partner Lisa stood by me through the whole experience. She even flew to Melbourne to see me audition in front of the judges and

was the first to congratulate me when I received the coveted white apron.”

For now, it’s back to flying – and considering a second career for down the road. “I’m making the most of MasterChef, putting myself out there and going off to do some work experience with [Michelin-star chef ] Jason Atherton at 22 Ships in Wanchai. I’ve got some stuff lined up in Australia, so there’s plenty on the boil,” Brett finishes. “One day I’d love to own something – something better than the average restaurant.”

Find it You can contact Brett through Twitter and Instagram (@cartscancook) and via the Brett Carter Facebook page.

Find more local heroes

@ www.arounddb.com

DMR

School of Ballet Est 1984

“Dreams do come true”

Shop 112 DB Plaza, Discovery Bay HK

2987 4338

info@dmr-hk.com - www.dmr-hk.com RS_GERMANCOMMUNITYAD.indd 1

25/03/2013 4:13 PM

IN FOCUS

Photos by Terry Chow and Ya’ara Delgoshen

THE JOY OF

CHRISTMAS There’s a joyful sound coming from DB Plaza and it’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, writes Trisha Hughes. Why be a Grinch when there’s so much fun to be had?

34

Christmas is about seeing the joy on children’s faces

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

IN FOCUS

F

or me, there is nothing quite as exciting as Christmas.

Every year, I look forward to the lighting of candles and I love watching the sparkle of ornaments and lights as they shimmer and dance in the reflection of mall windows. Then there’s the buzz of Christmas shoppers with bloated, overstuffed bags and the happy sound of children’s laughter as they tear open their gifts.

I love the smell of roasting ham, turkey and aromatic puddings wafting through my home and I may be the only one who never gets tired of hearing those Christmas songs about dashing through the snow on onehorse open sleighs. Thankfully the weather in Hong Kong is not warm enough to worry Rudolph.

at night when the family are fast asleep in their beds. In the chaos, it’s very easy to lose the true meaning of Christmas.

DB’s inclusionary approach It has long been my dream to live in a world where everyone celebrates Christmas (and all the other major religious festivals for that matter) side by side, regardless of their personal faith or affiliation. And this happens in DB – it really does.

In December, just about everyone heads to Discovery Bay International School to enjoy the Carols on the Pitch, and there’s always a multi-faith audience watching the Nativity in the Plaza, just as there is for the lighting

A truly international festival, Christmas is rooted in a rich combination of Christian and Pagan traditions, folklore and conflicting names. We have Père Noël, St Nicolas, Kris Kringle, Father Christmas and Santa Claus, all names for the same jolly, overweight gentleman in the red suit. And while most of us celebrate Christmas on December 25, in Russia, Christmas is celebrated between December 31 and January 10 and a porridge called kutia or sochivo, is eaten from a common bowl. Some families like to throw a spoonful up on the ceiling and if it sticks, it’s meant to be good luck.

In the Czech Republic, people fast during Christmas Eve in the hope

Why be a Grinch?

On the whole, I’m generally well behaved when it comes to the December spend but sometimes the thought of treating friends and family overwhelms me and I just can’t help myself. I am definitely not the Grinch, that furry recluse living in scorn and seclusion on a cliff overlooking the cheerful community of Whoville. For me, Christmas is a time for feasting and merrymaking and I particularly approve of the lively, boozy part of the celebration.

Christmas is a great time to make family memories from decorating the tree together, sending cards to friends, hanging stockings, attending carol services and don’t forget decking the halls with boughs of holly. But having said all of that, our stress levels always go up a notch, as does our credit card bill.

There’s the extra grocery shopping to think about and presents for the family, not to mention those extra ‘spare’ presents to have in readiness in case an unexpected ‘someone’ turns up with a present for you. And then there’s finding the time for the cooking and the gift-wrapping late

In DB, everyone celebrates the major religious festivals side by side

of the Menorah during Chanukah (the Jewish Festival of Lights), a little earlier in the month.

It’s certain that DB’s multi-cultural make-up lends itself to this kind of inclusionary approach to religious celebrations, and perhaps never more so than at Christmas. People from Sydney to Timbuktu celebrate Christmas after all (albeit in their own ways), and in DB we can see this at first hand at our neighbours’ homes.

they will have a vision of ‘the golden pig’ on the wall before dinner, again a sign of good luck. In Australia, we just hope we don’t get a raw prawn from the sizzling barbeque.

Would you ban the fun?

Despite the way it can bring people together, naysayers across the globe have long had it in for Christmas.

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate that the idea of banning all the festive fun is not new. 

www.arounddb.com December 2016

35

IN FOCUS

Carols on the Pitch performed for a multi-faith audience at DBIS

In England, in 1649, making himself very unpopular at the time, Oliver Cromwell relieved King Charles I of his head then banned the Christmas activities along with eating, drinking and being merry. Decorating the house, carol singing and even holly were banned, regarded as a pagan part of the Druid’s Winter Solstice Festival.

You were especially not allowed to sing the carol God Rest you Merry Gentlemen since the greeting actually meant ‘continue to be joyful and merry’.

Happily, the festival returned once more with a bang with the restoration of the Merry Monarch, Charles II, when he arrived on the scene declaring that having fun was back in favour again.

Recent times, however, see us close to coming full circle. In a lot of countries whenever Christmas arrives on our doorstep, along with the fuzzy red and white Santa hats and candy canes, anger surfaces.

‘May the God of your choice bless you’.

A time for giving Along with the religious controversies, there is also a great deal of concern over the commercialisation of Christmas and the immense spending that it involves. Our children are no longer happy with the prospect of an orange and some walnuts in the hand-knitted stocking as were children during the Great Depression in the 1930s. But how can we expect them to be?

These days, department stores start their advertising well in advance, giving rise to our cynicism as Christmas approaches. Thankfully, most of us are not as naïve as these stores think.

A truly happy holiday

Find more topical local topics

36

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

For most of us, Christmas isn’t just a day. It’s a frame of mind.

Thank goodness in Hong Kong, we seem to be free of the politically correct influences that try to spoil the fun for us all, children and adults alike. You only have to look at the brightly decorated malls and the local shops decorated with paper lanterns and strings of lights to know that the Chinese love everything Christmas.

I know it’s not all about the gift side but for me, seeing joy on children’s faces is well worth waiting for every year. It reminds me of how lucky I am to live in this beautiful country and have food, shelter and family; be able to see, touch and hold my loved ones; and to have the memories of precious ones who once walked by my side and loved me.

There has, for instance, been a lot of conflict in recent years between varying religious groups regarding Christmas greetings. As a result, we’ve modified our greetings with some favouring ‘Happy Holidays,’ instead of the traditional ‘Merry Christmas.’ There is even talk about Santa’s greeting of ‘Ho ho ho’ being (phonetically) inappropriate.

As for me, to avoid stepping on anyone’s toes, I now choose to say,

We never forget that the true spirit of Christmas is about giving without a thought of receiving. It’s about the happiness we see in our children’s faces when they wake up to find their stockings at the end of their beds. It’s about forgetting yourself and finding time for others. It’s about discarding the meaningless and emphasising the true values of life.

Merry Christmas everyone. May the God of your choice bless you. And may you never be too grown-up to search the skies on Christmas Eve.

@ www.arounddb.com

XMAS PULL-OUT GUIDE

Christmas marketplace

Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

Eat, Drink, (Shop) and be Merry!

www.arounddb.com December 2016

37

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Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org and www.pixabay.com

Kate Farr hacks the hassle out of choosing a tree, decking the halls and serving up a gourmet Christmas lunch

46

C

hristmas in Hong Kong can be a magical time of year. It can also be a frankly stressful one, with food, decorations and gifts to arrange… that’s before you even start thinking how to fill the school holidays.

Here are a few helpful hints to making the festive season fun and hassle-free this year.

Trim the tree One of the biggest Hong Kong Christmas dilemmas comes from

choosing a tree. While many swear that nothing compares to the scent of a real spruce, others cite environmental concerns (not to mention all those spiky needles) as a reason to fake it through the festive season. Whether you’re on team real or team reusable, there are a few crafty shortcuts to make your tree a towering success.

Order your real tree well in advance to avoid disappointment; they tend to get snapped up quickly from the beginning of December. Look for Nordmann Firs – a special breed that not only has

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

softer needles, but also sheds less as it dries out, making it a friendlier option for those with young kids or pets. Don’t forget accessories such as tree stands and wreaths; Xmas Tree Online stocks everything you need, along with the ultimate in convenience – a removal service. Prices start from HK$1,188 for a tree that’s sourced sustainably in the US. Keep it in a cool and draughty spot to minimise the needle fall.

If you prefer plastic and its shed-free durability, then City’super’s luxury artificial trees will see you through year

PARENTING SMARTS

after year, with prices starting at about HK$1,100. Failing that, good old Japan Home Centre ( JHC) has an abundance of cheap and very cheerful trees starting at less than HK$100 – you can also find every possible permutation of lights and tinsel here for pocket-change prices.

Missing the authentic scent of the season? Head to The Candle Company on Lyndhurst Terrace and take your pick of pine, cinnamon and winterberry scents that more than compensate for the lack of puncture marks in your feet.

Deck the halls Aside from the aforementioned JHC tinsel-fest, Christmas decor opens up all kinds of opportunities for young kids to get crafty with an abundance of glitter glue, pipe-cleaners and felt. If they’ve brought home sackfuls of art projects from school, consider collating them all into an artwork print once Christmas is over, saving you wall space and preserving their efforts for future years – try DB’s own Little Bug Prints for a beautiful personalised memento.

For little ones who want to get hands-on, empty yoghurt pots can be decorated with Christmassy stickers – poke a small hole in the base and hang a button for an instant ‘bell’. Spray pinecones in gold or silver and make strings of gingerbread men – a couple of coats of varnish will make them last for years to come. Store everything away safely for next year in empty egg boxes

and wind Christmas lights around a coat hanger to keep them tangle-free.

Alternatively, for a ready-made solution with a local twist, The Lion Rock Press has a beautiful range of Hong-Kong themed Christmas decorations, available at Bookazine. Check out the hanging Star Ferries, the elusive Lantau blue taxis, and dim-sum steamers, and adorn your tree with a distinctly Cantonese accent.

Wining and dining Craving an old-fashioned Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, but stuck with a tiny Hong Kong-sized kitchen?

Before you Google ‘how to microwave

a 21lb turkey’, don’t panic – there are always crafty cheats to ensure that both your dinner, and more importantly, you, are beautifully presented on the big day.

The ultimate hack is, of course, to forgo slaving away in the kitchen altogether and head out for Christmas lunch. However, if your big day wouldn’t be complete without a heated debate over the gravy boat, then you can pre-order turkey and all the trimmings from Discovery Bay Recreation Club (club members get a discount), Discovery Bay Golf and some DB restaurants. If you’re looking to splurge, Mandarin Oriental delivers everything you need for a gourmet festive meal (from HK$2,088) all the way up to Christmas Day itself. 

Tree decorations now come with a Cantonese twist

www.arounddb.com December 2016

47

PARENTING SMARTS

And what’s Christmas without a tipple or two? Winerack delivers for free to Discovery Bay and South Lantau on orders of six bottles of wine or over, and has a good selection of beers, ciders and spirits too.

Forgotten to stock the fridge and have guests arriving? You can speed-chill your drinks in one of two ingenious ways. The first is to wet a tea towel, wrap it around your bottle and then place it in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes. The cold travels faster through water than through air, resulting in a nicely icy bottle. The second is to fill an ice bucket (or at a pinch, a washing up bowl) with water and ice, then add a generous handful of salt. Salt water chills your drink considerably faster than fresh water, leaving you ready to pour in record time. Cheers, and Happy Christmas!

Pre-order your turkey

Find it

Get the kids to help

• City’super, www.citysuper.com.hk • Discovery Bay Golf Club, www.dbgc.hk • Discovery Bay Recreation Club, www.dbrc.hk • Japan Home Centre, www.jhc.com.hk • Little Bug Prints, www.littlebugprints.com • Mandarin Oriental, www.mandarinoriental.com • The Candle Company, www.candles.hk • The Lion Rock Press, www.thelionrockpress.com • Winerack, www.winerack.com.hk • Xmas Tree Online, www.xmastreeonline.hk

Find more child-centric stories

@ www.arounddb.com

Eye Level Math learning centre celebrates its 10th Year Anniversary in DB!

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Call 93660000 or email to hi@hicentre.biz for enquiry and enrolment *For 2 or 3 month enrolment only. **$100 discount for 1 month upfront enrolment, $200 discount for 2 month upfront enrolment, $300 for 3 month upfront enrolment. Classes must be attended continuously for the discount period ***Book coupon available while stock lasts. All offers subject to final decisions by Eye Level DB. Other conditions apply.

Happy Holidays from

After many years at Horizon Plaza we have decided to freshen up our business, “Experience the lifestyle”.

We are starting off with a retail outlet, soon to come a coffee shop OPENING DECEMBER, a BBQ supermarket, specializing in anything you need for a great BBQ. We will also start running some private cooking nights, we will demo our BBQs and your meals will be cooked utilizing our products. The menu will be very exciting and we guarantee there will be something you will like.

JBL

JERVISBAY BARBECUES LIMITED HAS MOVED TO A NEW LOCATION FANTASTIC CHRISTMAS SPECIALS Grab a coffee, grab a bargain, soon you can grab a BBQ lesson and dinner

Jervisbay Barbecues Limited 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road Aberdeen Flat B 9 Fl Tin Fung Industrial Mansions Tel: 0900-1830 www.jervisbaybarbecues.com Parking at the rear Tong Bin

FAMILY MATTERS

GETTING INTO Photo by Sam Agars

GOLF

Spending time on the green is a passion for many DBers and the top local players, following in their parents’ footsteps, are starting young.

Sam Agars reports YB and Denzel Rai and Taichi and Victor Kho at the DBGC

W

hile golf in Hong Kong and throughout many parts of Asia is viewed as an elitist sport due to the often astronomical cost of playing, it is more accessible here than some may think. Even in Discovery Bay where the only course is very much member-oriented and proud of it, there are opportunities for everyone to have a game – kids included.

52

Yes, Discovery Bay Golf Club (DBGC) has only 1,100 members and the chance of obtaining a membership is well beyond most people’s means, plus a visitor is looking at HK$2,300 a round on a weekday, or the mindboggling figure of HK$4,500 to play on a weekend. But the club offers reduced rates to members of the Discovery Bay Residents Golf Society (DBRGS) and it shows its

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

commitment to young players by welcoming students to its driving range after school.

DB’s kid contenders Although for most in DB golf is a social pursuit (with a competitive edge), there are many who take it seriously and have made a habit of shooting low rounds. DB is also

FAMILY MATTERS

proving itself to be quite the breeding ground for top young golfers, with 10-year-old Denzel Rai and 15-yearold Taichi Kho making some serious noise on the Hong Kong golf scene.

YB believes he has the talent to go all the way to the top, but for now education is still the priority and Taichi enjoys any chance to play with his dad Victor. “We have our battles, especially recently,” Taichi says. “It’s great, because whenever we go out on course, I get to spend time with him.”

tournaments in Hong Kong and internationally,” Denzel says. “I would love to be a professional golfer.”

’’

It was on the greens and fairways of the DBGC that young stars Denzel and Taichi learnt their trade, both introduced to the game at an early age by their fathers. Taichi began playing at the age of five-and-a-half and it soon became evident he had big things ahead. Ten years and millions of balls later and Taichi is considered amongst the best Hong Kong has to offer, despite his tender age.

“I really like the driving range and the short game area facility [at the DBGC],” Taichi says. “It’s a great place to practise. [The club] has been really open and they’ve helped a lot of other juniors practise up there.”

Already in the Hong Kong national senior team, Taichi is, according to DBRGS president YB Rai, one of the best three golfers of any age here in Hong Kong. Crowned the overall boys champion at the Hong Kong Junior Open Championship (HKJOC) at Fanling in August, he has begun to play more and more overseas.

“This year my results have been very good,” Taichi says. “There was a tournament at Mission Hills in Shenzhen [the Jack Nicklaus Championship in early May], where I placed second in the overall standings.

That was actually my personal best for a three day total.”

As a result of his win at the HKJOC, Taichi was invited to attend the prestigious World Golf Championship-HSBC Champions in Shanghai in November, where he received one-on-one tuition with some of the world’s top golfers.

DB is also proving quite the breeding ground for top young golfers

Taichi and Denzel – who are both Discovery College (DC) students – have benefitted significantly from the help of the DBGC and are on reduced-rate junior memberships at the club. The DBGC also allows other budding young golfers in DB to practise, but DC teacher (digital literacies coordinator and golf nut!)

Joe Leithhead says it’s not like it used to be.

While prior management allowed DC to take students to play nine holes in the afternoon after school, now students only have access to the driving range, although club professionals remain very generous with their time. “It’s a real reward for the students in the golfing programme – a chance to put their newly acquired skills to the test,” Joe says. “We're grateful to be able to access the practice facilities.”

Finding the fairway

Denzel and his father (YB) also play together at DBGC regularly and Denzel, who is in the Hong Kong junior squad and played in his first tournament in February, is also eyeing more play overseas. He too experienced success in the HKJOC in August, topping his nine to 10 years age group, and is aiming high having jumped to number three in the Hong Kong junior rankings.

“My dream is to win many more

Find it

While the DBGC rolls out the welcome mat for young players, kids have to wait until they turn 18 to join either the DBRGS or the Big Sai Wan (BSW). That said both societies are family orientated and both are intent on growing the game locally.

December is an especially busy time for golf in DB, with both societies holding their season-ending events.

The BSW Masters is on December 12 and the DBRGS is holding its Annual Championship on December 9.

• Big Sai Wan Golf Society, www.bigsaiwan.com • Discovery Bay Golf Club, www.dbgc.hk • Discovery Bay Residents Golf Society, www.dbrgs.com

The future is bright for Taichi and Find more child-centric stories

@ www.arounddb.com

www.arounddb.com December 2016

53

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TALKING POINTS

BEHIND THE SCENES

Photos courtesy of Acting Antics, Faust International and Performers Studio

Faust International – The Snow Queen

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Talking to three of DB’s top performing-arts teachers, Sam Agars discovers that the benefits of learning to act go way beyond mastering stagecraft

A

few minutes chatting to an expert about the impact drama and theatre can have on the lives of young people, and it quickly becomes evident that there is much more to it than meets the untrained eye. While onlookers are often stunned by the ability and audacity of young performers on stage, they rarely take into account just how they got to be at that point in the first place.

Becoming ‘stage ready’ certainly

doesn’t happen overnight – it’s a long process and through this process, youngsters are constantly learning, not just about the discipline they are mastering but also about life itself.

Being trained in the performing arts not only shapes a child in the here and now, but for many years to come.

Loving the limelight If there is one thing for certain for children joining a drama class for the first time, it is that before long they

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

are going to have to step outside their comfort zone in a pretty major way.

Keon Lee, of Faust International, says he is constantly amazed by the way some children take to performing like ducks to water, while others need a gentle push.

“I have met the bravest four to five year olds, you’d be bowled over by how articulate they are and how confident they seem, and I have seen really shy teenagers who barely speak a word,” Keon says. “We do a lot of activities

TALKING POINTS POINTS TALKING

TALKING POINTS

Acting Antics International – Filbert the Dragon

where the whole group does something together, so if you are shy you are able to do it with the crowd. But, slowly, we will ask a child to step out and lead in various ways.”

Emma has seen students pick up a range of valuable life lessons in her classes out of Discovery College, including a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and the ability to express themselves and operate independently.

Into its 18th year, and now providing drama and theatre classes for DB kids at Discovery Bay International School, Faust prides itself on introducing children aged three to 18 to a fun world of drama and theatre. The idea is that they grow in confidence, while developing skills that will help them across all facets of life.

“In drama you are not just engaging your body but you are also engaging your brain,” Keon says. “What we provide is a really fun workshop space where children are imagining and using their creativity in expressing those ideas.

Everybody uses that in everyday life, whether they are making a presentation at school or at the office, whether they are working in a team and having to engage others with their ideas. It’s a great way of testing your skills in delivering that creativity and those ideas.”

Putting it out there Emma Tielus-Ward from Performers

Performers Studio - Peter Pan

Studio, which started in DB in 2008 and offers professional performing arts classes to all ages, is a big believer in the benefits of performing live.

“I don’t believe it boosts confidence unless you are performing it,” Emma says. “Playing games and doing role play in the classroom is brilliant but if kids want to take that next step, theatre is about performing. It’s about putting it out there and allowing people to judge it and look at what you’re doing.”

“Acting, especially when you are making a show, requires a passion and it requires you to reveal that passion,” she says.

“You have to be expressive and not just be expressive in the character, but have that passion for what you are doing. That is useful anywhere. Having an ‘I can do this attitude’ is great in theatre but it is also brilliant in everyday challenges, like schoolwork.”

All the world’s a stage For Deborah Percy of Acting Antics International, which has held performance-based drama classes for kids aged four to 13 at Discovery College and Bayview House of Children since 2009, the performing arts play a vital role in ensuring children receive a balanced education.

“Educationalists around the world recognise that a balanced education is one that not only meets a child’s

www.arounddb.com December 2016



57

TALKING POINTS

academic and intellectual needs, but also allows and encourages personal, social and emotional development,” Deborah says.

Acting Antics works on the philosophy of self-discovery through performance and puts an emphasis on teaching the art of communication.

The aim is to build confidence and improve knowledge, while developing the use of ‘everyday’ language skills – all elements that help to build future school and community leaders.

By practising the performing arts, Deborah says children learn to communicate more effectively and, as a result, “find it easier to make friends, to adjust to new environments and

situations and, in the long term, find and hold down good jobs”.

While Faust, Performers Studio and Acting Antics all have slightly

different takes on the benefits of drama and theatre for children, one thing is clear – the lessons learnt in rehearsals and on stage will stay with them forever.

Performers Studio – Peter Pan

Panto season Faust International, Performers Studio and Acting Antics all have performances of some sort or another planned for the festive season.

While Faust is performing The Jungle Book from December 1 to 3 at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts in Wanchai, Acting Antics and Performers Studio both limit their Christmas performances to parents, friends, family and youngsters keen to join their ranks.

• Performers Studio, www.theperformersstudio.com • Faust International, www.faustworld.com.hk • Acting Antics International, www.actingantics.com

Find more child-centric stories

@ www.arounddb.com

The Stage is Set for Our 18th Anniversary!

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MOMENTS

SAVING THE RHINO Be the change you want to see in the world: Seven-year-old DBer Finnley Burrough may not be familiar with this beautiful maxim just yet but there’s no doubt he embodies it. Jennifer Atepolikhine reports

S

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

ince October, 2015, Finnley Burrough, a Year 3 student at Discovery College (DC), has raised just over HK$10,000 for the Asian Rhino Project – an Australian non-profit that raises awareness and support for the three Asian rhino species: Javan, Sumatran and Indian.

Finnley began his effort on his sixth birthday, last year, when he collected HK$3,800 by asking for donations rather than gifts. He has been working to raise awareness among friends and classmates ever since.

60

at the Discovery Bay Flea Market on October 23, Finnley raised HK$6,327.

This September 22, World Rhino Day, Finnley went to each of DC’s Year 3 classes to inform students about the plight of the rhino, worldwide.

(Today very few rhinos survive outside national parks and reserves, and both the Javan and Sumatran rhino are listed as ‘critically endangered’.)

Finnley then asked his year group peers to donate old and unwanted toys and games for him to sell, to raise funds for the Asian Rhino Project. At his stall,

Activist in the making Finnley’s focus right now is the Javan rhino, the rarest large mammal in the world. Fewer than 50 remain in the wild, living in Ujung Kulon National Park in Java, Indonesia.

Asked why he is so committed to protecting the Javan rhino, Finnley looks at me a little incredulously.

“I found out that the Javan rhino was quickly becoming extinct,” he says gently, obviously a bit worried that I haven’t done my homework.

“Two years ago there used to be 35, this year it’s 50. I wanted to help them. So there could be more and more of them.”

Once he’s recovered from being asked to state the obvious, Finnley’s off – eager to share his passion

and his encyclopaedic knowledge.

“Javan rhinos used to live all around – Indonesia, China, Thailand.

Now, because of all the hunting, there are only a very few left,” he explains. “Rhinos are hunted because people think their horns are good for medicine but rhino horns aren’t actually medicine.” While Finnley thinks rhino horns are traded here in Hong Kong, he knows they are very expensive – “one rhino horn costs more than six gold bars”. He also knows how hunters track rhinos – “they follow their dung”.

Going off on a slight tangent, Finnley tells me about an upcoming family holiday to Namibia and Botswana, where there are Black and White rhinos. When I ask him how many there are in the wild, he checks one of his excellent info graphics. “White rhinos, there are 20,405 and the Black, 5,055,” he says with obvious delight.

So what is Finnley working on now? “Until Javan rhino numbers are increased to ‘least concern’, I’ll continue to fundraise,” he says.

“Then, I want to set up a new project to help the Sumatran rhino. There are 200 of them left. They don’t have hard armour – they’re not like Black or White rhinos – they look all hairy.

And they are gentle; they don’t just, like, charge into you.”

To find out more about the Asian Rhino Project, visit asianrhinos.org.au.

Finnley Burrough, 7, has raised just over HK$10,000 for the Asian Rhino Project

Find more local heroes

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

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ESCAPES

Photos courtesy of Flight Centre Hong Kong

WONDERLAND

62

Do yourself a favour by beating the world to the punch and taking advantage of South Korea’s fresh powder, exhilarating slopes and unforgettable culture. Ben Stower explores Gangwon-do ahead of the 2018 Winter Olympics

S

et to host the 2018 Winter Olympics, South Korea is two years from transcending its current international snow-holiday appeal.

Fortunately, skiers and snowboarders still have a couple of seasons left to enjoy the country’s famed Taebaek Mountains and ski resorts without

the massive crowds.

Snaking down Korea’s eastern side from Wonsan to Busan, the Taebaek Mountains cut right through the Gangwon-do region, which lies about a two-hour drive from Seoul. The high altitude (peaking at 1,708 metres) produces tremendous snowfall each

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

year, which has quickly established Gangwon-do as South Korea’s finest skiing destination.

The Taebaek Mountains (also known as the Korean Alps) home more than 15 resorts, all of which provide lodgestyle accommodation, night skiing, family-friendly activities and more.

ESCAPES

The accommodation varies from multibedroom villas to budget-friendly hotels.

Yongpyong also boasts Asia’s largest ski complex, Dragon Plaza, which features spectacular Korean and international restaurants, along with more hotels and entertainment, such as karaoke and 10-pin bowling. For great views and authentic Korean barbecue, catch the Rainbow Gondola to Dragon Castle restaurant; for a little alpine pampering, head to Dragon Valley Hotel’s fabled Finnish saunas.

Family-friendly snow delights With lifts running from 8.30am to 10pm, High1 Resort is an all-day extravaganza that dishes up spectacular terrain down three impressive mountains.

High1’s beginner, intermediate and advanced runs are all positioned close together, so families with skiers of varying experience levels can still carve the powder together. The 4.2-kilometre valley course is an excellent starting run with plenty of width, gentle inclines and length. The Terrain Park features three levels of difficulty, along with a half-pipe for fearless trick technicians.

The Taebaek Mountains have something for powder hounds of all abilities

These modern leisure complexes boast English-speaking ski schools, pristine pistes and the age-old après-ski tradition.

Korea’s home of skiing Yongpyong Resort is one of two official hosts for the 2018 Winter Olympics, and it is already a crowd favourite.

With about 2.5 metres of snowfall each season, Yongpyong’s 28 groomed runs provide the ideal environment for powder hounds.

The resort’s gargantuan size and 15 cable lifts ensure it never feels crowded, and there’s a wide range of options

for skiers and boarders of all abilities.

The opening hours alone cement Yongpyong as a skiing haven, with skiers and snowboarders seen carving powder as late as 2.30am.

Experienced snowboarders can find a worthy challenge on Mount Balwangsan’s super-advanced runs, which offer steep inclines and tight chutes from the 1,458-metre summit.

Here, Dragon Peak delivers the right ingredients for high-flyers with jumps, rails, boxes and jibs, while the Englishspeaking school runs group and private lessons for both beginners and those looking to polish specific skills.

The Mountain Ski House is a one-stop leisure complex for gear, gondolas, arcade games, food and a ski school for kids. But if your odds are better at the tables than on the slopes, Kangwonland Casino is your playground with 200 table games, including black jack, roulette, baccarat and poker, along with slots machines.

Those looking to splurge on accommodation should consider the five-star Kangwonland Hotel. Budgetsavvy snow junkies can find affordable rooms at High1 Hotel or Valley Condominium, both of which place you right on the slopes.

A cinematic holiday setting Introduce yourself to Phoenix Park Resort by skiing or snowboarding down the 2.2-kilometre panorama run. There are 22 groomed runs, 12 of which have been internationally recognised and will host the freestyle skiing 

www.arounddb.com December 2016

63

ESCAPES

and snowboarding during the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Amateur freestyle addicts can practise their aerial and ground tricks on the Extreme Park’s half-pipe, table-tops, rails and jumps. Meanwhile, newbies can benefit from expert instruction at either the adult or child school.

Experts can test their limits against moguled courses and intimidating black runs.

Although Phoenix Park delights adventurous snowboarders and skiers, it’s best known for its majestic setting and appearances on popular Korean TV drama, Winter Sonata. The resort’s cheerful village resembles a tiny metropolis encircled by towering mountains, and the snow rarely stops falling during winter.

Yongpyong Resort

The village comprises a five-star hotel, condos, villas and a youth hostel, all connected via an underground passageway. Everything’s close at hand including a smorgasbord of restaurants and leisure activities.

Wherever you stay in Gangwon-do, be sure to try chimaek – a uniquely Korean après-ski delight of crispy fried chicken and beer. Though not the healthiest option, you’ll have more than earned it after a day taming the Korean Alps.

Flight Centre Hong Kong specialises in tailor-made travel experiences, the widest choice of airfares and unique products, and 24-hour emergency assistance. To book your getaway, call 2830 2776, visit www.flightcentre.com.hk, or drop by the retail stores in Discovery Bay, Central, Happy Valley or Wanchai.

Find more exciting travel destinations

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HK HAPPENINGS

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH!

1-3 December

Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com

Photo courtesy of Faust International and Ines Laimins

THE JUNGLE BOOK

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai Faust International brings Rudyard Kipling’s tale of friendship and bravery to life in this wildly theatrical adaptation. Will Mowgli find his place in the jungle community or is he destined to return to the man village? For tickets, starting at HK$220, visit www.hkticketing.com.

PEI HO COUNTERPARTS CHARITY POP-UP STORE

Through 15 December

Lan Kwai Fong

PRESTIGE FAIRS

DISNEY ON ICE

Conrad Hong Kong, Admiralty

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai

December 8 & 14

www.prestigefairs.hk

www.lankwaifong.com

At charitable restaurateur Chan Cheuk-ming’s pop-up, all profits from the nine lunchbox options (HK$32 each) go to the Pei Ho Charity Foundation, set up to support HongKongers in need. For HK$24, you can also buy a voucher to pay for a free meal for an underprivileged person, with HK$7 going to the foundation. Even better, if you use Android Pay, an extra HK$4 is donated.

Tick off everything on your Christmas shopping list at Prestige Fairs’ Christmas Showcase on December 8 and Christmas Gift Festival on December 14. The amazing gift ideas from around the world encompass everything from jewellery and fashion to gourmet food, homeware and children’s products. Admission is free.

For more information, visit www.prestigefairs.hk.

BUMPS TO BABES NEW MOVE!

Photo courtesy of Bumps to Babes

66

December

8-11

www.weekendnotes.com

In The Wonderful World of Disney on Ice, classic Disney characters old and new join together in a colourful celebration of all things Walt. This unforgettable family experience sees performances drawn from magical movies like Frozen, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves and Toy Story. For tickets, starting at HK$280, visit www.hkticketing.com.

The talk of the town this December – Bumps to Babes Central is now in a new location providing all the essentials, from baby equipment and nursery furniture to push chairs, car seats, swimwear, clothing and thousands of toys from leading brands. The new Bumps to Babes is open seven days a week and includes a mother and baby feeding and changing room. Find it at 13/F, Entertainment Building, 30 Queen’s Road Central.

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

HK HAPPENINGS

Like us on Facebook for event reminders: www.facebook.com/ AroundDB www.wikimedia.org

THE SNOW QUEEN Kellett School, Kowloon Bay

December 11-18

Backed by over 50 years of Christmas performances, Hong Kong Players’ 2016 panto is a raucous adventure in which good versus evil and sun versus snow. Expect music, dance and plenty of laughs for the whole family. For tickets, starting at HK$250, visit www.ticketflap.com.

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui

December 5 -2 16-18 & 20

AIA GREAT EUROPEAN CARNIVAL Central Harbourfront, Central The AIA Great European Carnival is set to feature a wide range of entertainment, including DJs, choirs, dance shows, magicians and, of course, fabulous fairground rides. You can purchase tickets, starting at HK$90, either at the venue or online at www.tgec.asia.

December 16 February 12

www.breakmystyle.com

JOHN WILLIAMS’ STAR WARS

www.hkballet.com

THE NUTCRACKER Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui Join Clara, Fritz and the Nutcracker in a magical adventure as they battle the evil Rat King in Hong Kong Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker.

Grab your tickets, starting at HK$180, at www.urbtix.hk.

The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and acclaimed conductor Guy Noble present some of awardwinning composer John Williams’ most celebrated scores. Expect music from Raiders of the Lost Ark, Superman and, of course, the blockbuster Star Wars series. For tickets, starting at HK$120, visit www.urbtix.hk.

December

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Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar! Congratulations to last month’s winner: Luke Smith (@lukeinhk)

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he best snap wins! Your mission this month is to share a photo taken in DB or Lantau on our @around_db Instagram page and hashtag it #arounddb. You have until the 10th of this month to enter – so get tagging.

This is your chance to win a complimentary coffee from Uncle Russ, or a beer from The Pier Bar every day for a week. We will contact the winner via Instagram. Good luck!

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FINANCIAL PLANNING ASK THE EXPERT WHO AM I? As long-term DB residents will already know, I am KayeKaye Khemlani (PIBA No. 0032-009006), a native-English speaking insurance advisor, with a strong presence in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong.

But aren’t you getting tired of my boring adverts?

It’s time for some growth and knowledge.

MY THOUGHTS ON TERM LIFE Let’s look at your home mortgage or income property mortgage protection policy. Also known as TERM LIFE, this is a sometimes mandatory product imposed on you by your bank.

If your loan amount is US$1 million, you will be asked to get a life insurance policy for that amount. What the banks do here is called DEGRADING TERM – as the loan balance diminishes so does the death pay out. This means that after 10 years, you only get US$500k back or whatever is the balance of your loan – and your premiums never decrease. With my company you get the full US$1 million back!

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Happy Christmas to all our loyal readers and advertisers To get the most out of the holidays, visit www.arounddb.com

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH & TEENS

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

Nativity in the Plaza “Peace On Earth -

Sunday, December 18, 2016 DB Plaza 4:00pm - 6:00pm Brought to you by:

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Church of the Incarnation

For more information, please contact 2987-4210 or 2987-7610

Discovery Bay Church St. John’s Cathedral

Discovery Bay International Community Church

** This Christmas we would like to encourage all friends and residents of DB to show the true Christmas Spirit and support World Vision - Syrian Refugee Response Please visit www.worldvision.org.hk/en/our-work/syrian-refugee-response for donation information **

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com EMPLOYMENT

DELIVERY PERSON/ MESSENGER

Michael, a HK resident, is available to deliver documents & small parcels around HK. Available full- or part-time.

Call 9145 6731 to leave a message

NURSE WANTED

New anti-aging clinic in DB North Plaza is looking for an enrolled/ registered nurse. Experienced, & ideally a Korean/ Chinese DB resident. Email your CV to info@biostarasia.com

FINANCE & INSURANCE

HOME SERVICES

HOME SERVICES

AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS

AKASH MOVING & HANDYMAN SERVICES

FLAT PAINTING & HANDYMAN WORKS

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 Helen Wong, Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, helen.wong@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 Jitters Call Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist & Hypnotherapist on 2575 7707, or visit www.mindmatters.hk

EMPLOYER LOOKING FOR A HELPER?

Place your free classifieds ad here.

Email info@baymedia.com.hk

• Packing, moving & storage service • Interior painting & patch-up work • Appliance installation • Hanging pictures & mirrors • Blinds, curtains & shelves installation • Lights & ceiling fan installation • LCD TV mounting & switch replacement

All painting works, interior & exterior.

Picture hanging, light fitting, bath & tile refinishing.

Minor electrical & carpentry work.

Refinishing, door fitting, fencing, astroturfing & more.

Contact Roger on 9156 0360, drscompanyhk@gmail.com

Contact 2421 8088, info@akash.hk, www.akash.hk

FTC RELOCATIONS

• Local & international moves • Long/ short-term storage • Handyman services • World-class service – competitive rates Operating on DB & Lantau.

Contact 2814 1658, sales@ftc.hk, www.ftc.hk

KIDS

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play.

Activities to stimulate all areas of development.

Come & look at our facilities.

Classes for kids from 20 months to 4 years.

Morning & afternoon sessions.

Call 9511 2107, or visit www.earlyadventures.net

RETAIL EXPAT PAINTER & DECORATOR

Colourwash, wall papering, artwork, plastering, plumbing, electrical works, picture hanging, shelving & more.

For a quality, fast, clean service, contact 9074 5232, goldingdec@netvigator.com

Great value! High scoring!

Wines from around the world!

Free delivery & special offers for Discovery Bay residents.

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

HOUSE PAINTING BY UNITEK HK

DEADLINE FOR NOVEMBER ISSUE CLASSIFIEDS

ABBELIO WINES

BEAUTIFUL MIND THERAPY & FAMILY SERVICES

Bilingual clinical psychologist offering counselling services to children, adults & couples. Relationships; marital; family issues; ADHD; parenting support; mood difficulties; substance abuse. Located in Central.

Contact 9147 4234, drbertiewai@gmail.com, www.beautifulmindhk.com

Fast, tidy, reliable! Best rates in town!

Full renovation & handyman services, all done by expats.

For a free quote contact 2984 9381, www.unitekhk.com

December 16

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)

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com

Our Customer of the Month

Kermit

Mypetshop in the North Plaza.

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

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

If you want to stop, we can help.

No dues or fees.

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

Elly House of Beauty Offering trial prices for new clients, we offer Intense Pulse Light Treatments and Face Photo Rejuvenation.

Visit our Facebook page at Elly House of Beauty or contact us at 5217 0102 (Whatsapp)

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com TUITION & COURSES

TUITION & COURSES

Greenland Pest Control CHINESE (MANDARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH Personal Professional Tutoring Service.

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

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

MANDARIN CHINESE CLASSROOM Lessons for adults & children, individually & in small groups.

Any level/ time/ purpose.

In the Greens.

Call 6071 9643, or visit www.dbmandarin.com

MATHS TUITION Sai Kung Tutors, now in DB, wants kids to enjoy maths, not just pass exams.

All lessons are conducted at kids’ homes for ultimate ease and comfort.

Call 5321 4400

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

LEARN SPANISH • Native speaker • DELE examiner & experienced teacher • IB, IGCSE, A Level & HKDSE Business Spanish • Courses for adults • Flexible schedule & locations • Special offers for DB & Tung Chung students Contact Erik at 9666 9511, rerikm@hotmail.com

•Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents

SINGING LESSONS • For children and adults • With opera singer (ex Phantom of the Opera cast) and former teacher of the University of West London Musical Theatre degree course • In DB - close to pier

• Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients • English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Russian, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counsellors

Contact 5699 5979, or visit www.bernadettenagy.com

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

SPANISH MA in Applied Linguistics – University lecturer

20 years of experience teaching: • Spanish for children as a first and second language • Adults (Beginners to Advanced levels, Spanish for business, conversation) • Preparation for GCSE & IB exams • Spanish for specific purposes • Undergraduates (minor and major degrees)

Lessons in Discovery Bay on: TUE, THU & SAT Contact: Tel: 9104 3770 carinapicomartinez@gmail.com

Phoenix Wills

BEEF JERKY, BEEF BILTONG & PORK CRACKLING

HIGH PROTEIN SNACKS WITH NO ADDED MSG

Have you appointed guardians for your children?

Who should inherit your assets if you and your immediate family are all fatalities in an accident?

What happens if the breadwinner in your family is critically ill or in a coma and unable to provide?

Allow Phoenix Wills to assist you with your estate planning to ensure that your loved ones are looked after in the event of your untimely death or incapacity.

W: www.phoenix-wills.com E: info@phoenix-wills.com T: 3100 0101 | M: 6108 8471

Perfect for sharing & enjoying together T: +852 6647 2292 E: gillian@gmtfoodshk.com W: gmtfoodshk.com

/gmtfoods

@gillian_GMT

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

DB & LANTAU PROPERTY

APARTMENTS IN TUNG CHUNG

2-BED IN CHERISH COURT, DB

Fully furnished, 2- & 3-bed apartments available for long- or short-term lease. Minimum rental period 1 month. In excellent condition.

Contact Miss Man on 9806 9175/ 9872 7395, tanford787@gmail.com. Visit tanford.webs.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

DELUXE DB SERVICED APARMENTS

NICELY DECORATED DB APARTMENTS

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

Contact Annie on 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com

Nicely decorated, 1-, 2- & 3-bedroom flats available for short-term let. Fully furnished with wi-fi & NOW TV. Weekly cleaning service.

Photos available. Contact Serena 9236 1806, cow9146@yahoo.com.hk

OVERSEAS PROPERTY LUXURY APARTMENTS IN SIENA 2, DB Spacious 600’ apartments for short- or long-term rental. Quiet with sea views over park, near Club Siena & DB Tunnel. Fully furnished with washer/ drier, bed linen, kitchenware, 55” TVs, wi-fi, blu-ray home theatre. Contact the owner on 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com

STUNNINGLY FURNISHED DB FLAT Designer 2-bed apartment, 1-minute from DB Plaza. Renovated to the highest standard.

Weekly cleaning available. Contact Maeve on 6408 4227, maeveororke@hotmail.com

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

Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

LUXURY DB 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

HAWKS NEST THAILAND FOR RENT

Fully equipped 2-bedroom villa for rent, including rooftop patio with outdoor kitchen, Jacuzzi, pool & internet. Situated just south of Hua Hin, with optional Bangkok pick-up. Contact villa@hawksnestthailand.com, or visit www.hawksnestthailand.com

VILLA IN TABANAN, BALI FOR SALE Quiet, furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom villa with private dipping pool. Perfect vacation home after minimal renovation. Surrounded by rice paddies & 5 minutes to the beach. Contact onethingadaythatscaresyou@gmail.com, or visit www.sahajasawahresort.com

THESPANISHOPPORTUNITY.COM TheSpanishOpportunity.com helps you find the property you are looking for in Spain.

Contact info@thespanishopportunity.com

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

Free online at www.aussieproperty.com

View Discovery Bay short-term rentals www.arounddb.com

View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com

Discovery Bay Church (Anglican / Episcopal)

Christmas Services in Discovery Bay Church!

Come & Celebrate the Birth of Christ

Sunday 18 December, 4 pm Nativity in the Plaza Saturday 24 December (Christmas Eve), 6 pm Christingle and Nativity Play Sunday 25 December (Christmas Day), 10 am Family Eucharist

Wishing you a peaceful and joyous Christmas Discovery Bay Church (Anglican / Episcopal) Email: markrogers@discoverybaychurch.org.hk Daughter Church of St.John's Cathedral Web: www.discoverybaychurch.org.hk SKH Wei Lun Primary School, Priest in Charge: Discovery Bay Road The Reverend Mark Rogers 10:00am (English) Sunday Tel: 2987 4210 Mob: 5180 5106

Church of The Incarnation Sunday Services at SKH Wei Lun Primary School Chapel 10:30am Sunday Contact The Church Office 2987 0723

76

December 2016 www.arounddb.com

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

SOUTH LANTAU

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel

FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

2428 2566 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

Airport Izakaya Andante Bistro Delifrance Café Aficionado Chef’s Choice China Coast Bar & Grill Dosirak House Essence Federal Palace Restaurant Kimos Mansarover Indian Cuisine Melody Thai McDonald’s Delivery Moccato Olea Pizza Express Pizza Hut Delivery Regala Café & Dessert Bar Resto Rouge Skycity Bistro Spaghetti House Zentro Garden

2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4187 2286 6238 6504 4208 2286 6898 3520 0848 3602 8808 2626 0181 2886 3646 2109 1927 2988 8129 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 2297 3588 2330 0000 2286 6618 2886 3156 2286 6868 3969 2500 2109 1297 2802 8000

Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) China Bear Como Lake Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Long Island Mavericks Restaurant Tak Chai Kee Seafood The Beach House The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Water Buffalo

Dalcroze Jill Marshall Pilates South Lantau Paddle Club Thai Palin Massage Tony’s Salon Treasure Island

6627 4806 9708 0187 9688 9112 3114 0030 2984 0990 2546 3543 HOME & REPAIRS

2185 6550 2109 9396 2109 2288 2162 5752 2194 0020 2988 1534 2328 7282 3575 8370 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626

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

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

HOTELS

3969 1888 3602 8888 2286 8888

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

9021 1502 2987 8070 2162 5538 6273 7347 6674 6194 2611 9193 2164 7210 2420 1068 2109 3873 6341 3989 2121 0884 2988 8123

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

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

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

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

2109 9886 2984 0302 2980 3676 5197 4647 3689 6709 2984 0006 6341 3989

PROPERTY AGENCIES

LEARNING CENTRES

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

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488

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

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 9783 5840 HOTELS

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2984 0222 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 2984 8933 5465 5511 2320 2001 5662 8552 2984 1265 2504 4788 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2109 3331

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre Maximum Care North Lantau Physiotherapy Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung Chung Vet Centre Tung Chung Maternal & Child Health Centre Quality Health Dental Quality Health Medical Raffles Medical

LANTAU NUMBERS

2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1999

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

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

Friendly Bike Shop Island Wines Lantau Base Camp Quay House Red Hall Chinese Antiques The Red Lantern ZenvarA

2984 2278 9521 8481 5463 6060 2882 8710 2988 1368 2984 0099 9586 3459 SERVICES & OTHERS

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

9662 1747 2984 0060 6108 8471 9025 3949 6351 8923 TRANSPORTATION

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

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

DB NUMBERS

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

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 Health Cares IMI (Natural Medicine Clinic), North Plaza Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Development Practice The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza

2987 0855 2259 3422 2987 9909 2987 8136 2987 7061 2987 5633 2666 6183 2834 7276 2537 1087 2987 7575 2987 9003 2914 2223 2259 3422

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Action X GigaSports Little Whale, North Plaza Nomadic

3102 2977 2320 1238 3480 1348 2987 8460

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

MULTIMEDIA

LEARNING CENTRES

2987 4401 2987 7486 2448 1180 2987 4089 2947 9092

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Future Stars Dance Academy

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

2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

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

Little Explorers A drop-off playgroup for ages 18 months upward. Your child will have heaps of fun and make lots of new friends.

9327 0507

Playtime Kids DB

Parsons White Wealth Management

The Stephen Putnam Practice

OTHER SERVICES

The Best Travel Agency in DB 2987 2626 cas@appletravel.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 2416 8618 www.harveylawcorporation.com Gillian florist, North Plaza Flight Centre, North Plaza Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

2529 8256 2829 2010 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS

The Beat

Latin & Ballroom dance classes for adults and children. Wedding dance, Salsa, Beat Cardio, Mommies & Babies, Yoga and many more.

5194 9630 info@thebeat.com.hk www.thebeat.com.hk

AQUABLU

Boat/ Yacht Sales & Brokerage - Berths/ Debentures - Marine Insurance - Marine Problems/ Resolution 6017 7802 Oceanblu@netvigator.com

Tree of Joy

Private Client Wealth Management Tel: 2914 0388 www.sjpp.asia/tspp Bank of China HSBC Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd

2987 1373 2914 2378 2987 8898 2987 1777

Apple Travel

Island Dance

Playgroup run by Montessori-trained teacher. From 6 months to 4 years. 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management An expert financial service of distinct quality, integrity and excellence located at DB North Plaza.

2433 6981, 5664 7614 www.sjpp.asia/pwwm

Bookazine, North Plaza Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd Pen’n Paper P-Solution

2160 6556 2233 3000 2987 1851

Tree of Joy provides children with a fun, engaging and supportive environment to play and learn. Programs include: Dropoff Nursery Class, Parent-Toddler Class, Afternoon Camp and a Cooking Class.

Tel: 9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com

Please explore the website, or call Michèle to see any of the listings. +852 60550146 www.HKBoatsandHomes.com

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

3704 7402 2987 1313 2987 4488 2987 5087 2987 7803 2987 1041 2987 0222 2987 0222 2987 7082 2987 0789 2886 8555 2987 0789 2987 9268 2987 4428

LEARNING CENTRES

7+1 Creative Club

A LEGO after-school programme for children aged 3 and over, including robotics. A fun, interactive learning system through creative building. Tel: 3709 8466 Facebook: www.facebook.com/7plus1

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

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 7+1 Creative Club Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Playgroup Eye Level Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Kumon, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza Links Parenting, North Plaza Little Explorers English For Kids Mandarin for Munchkins, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten, North Plaza Treasure House

3709 8466 6114 2436 2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8028 2987 8088 2914 2202 2987 1201 2987 4338 2987 9644 9366 0000 6302 6327 2416 3088 2459 8808 8191 0813 6114 2436 9327 0507 2480 3909 2987 8608 2987 8143 2987 8143 2987 4217

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

2987 8484 2987 2023 2987 2088 2987 2987 2987 6238 2987 1919

FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Café Bord de Mer & Lounge Café Duvet Caffe Pascucci Coyote Mexican Cantina Chef’s Choice, North Plaza Ebeneezer’s Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza

2987 2298 2295 8288 2295 8299 2987 0966 2591 1426 2987 2848 2172 6111 2987 0036 2987 2915 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688

DB NUMBERS

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS Kiraku Tei

2987 2886

Koh Tomyums

2987 0767

La Création Bakery

2987 1829

McSorley’s Ale House

2987 8280

Mirch Masala, North Plaza

2987 1337

Moofish, North Plaza

2987 6318

Nevale Kitchen, North Plaza

2172 7099

Pacific Coffee

2987 1662

Paisano’s, North Plaza

2673 4445

Peony Chinese Restaurant

2500 1950

Salt & Pepper

2336 8001

Solera

2555 0772

Subway

2914 0005

Super Super

2914 1308

The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar

2777 8411

Uncle Russ, DB Plaza

2682 0068

Uncle Russ, North Plaza

2682 8110

Zak’s

2987 6232

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT Discovery Bay Cricket Club An internationally acclaimed club which provides a structure under which players, regardless of age or ability, can thrive.

2987 0132 www.dbcricketclub.com

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

Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more!

6624 8712 susan@embody.hk www.embody.hk Junior Cricket Academy Cricket for 3.5 to 15 year old girls and boys 9011 1319 www.dbcricketclub.com

Movement Improvement Specialized training in Pilates, Yoga, TRX, Spinning, Circuits and Personal training. The complete solution on your doorstep at DB North Plaza 2987 5852 www.movementimprovement.com.hk

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT Vikings Football Club Professional Soccer Coaching From ages 18 months to 12 years Tel: 9533 2600 vikingshk@hotmail.com www.vikings.hk Action X, North Plaza Club Siena DBees Ice Hockey DB Pirates Rugby Football Club Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club GigaSports

2911 4833 2987 7382 6473 4277 2517 8248 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381 2320 1238

Discovery Bay Commercial Services Discovery Bay Fire & Ambulance Discovery Bay Management Discovery Bay Office Centre Discovery Bay Post Office Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Report Room North Lantau Hospital San Hing Gas Co Typhoon Signal Enquiries Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department

2987 4242 2987 7502 2238 3601 2238 3388 2987 6046 2435 4511 3661 1694 3467 7000 2987 6738 2835 1473 2811 0788 2824 5000

WELLBEING

Ingredients of Wellness – Mindfulness Training

TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES Babyland Bo Bo House EpicLand Toysland

China Light & Power Information&Line 2678 2678 UTILITIES, SERVICES EMERGENCY HOTLINES

2997 8080 2987 4230 2441 0098 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES

Teaching young people skills to direct attention, to be calmer and concentrate better. angie@ingredientsofwellness.com 9048 5425 www.ingredientsofwellness.com

M Spa

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 DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services

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

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

3651 2345 2728 8333

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

2987 0614

Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266

Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care Nest Care, North Plaza Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch

2987 0283 2987 2060 2499 8826 2987 4112 2987 9198

View the business directory

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

Kyama Swim School Training programs for Adults; Private lessons; Learn to Swim courses for our Helper community and development squads for DC students.

Tel: 9487 5049 kyamaswimschool@gmail.com, www.kyamaswimschool.com

@ www.arounddb.com www.arounddb.com December 2016

79

A CHRISTMAS

OUT THERE

HUG

Trying to explain Christmas to an alien, Peter Sherwood is reminded that the only gift worth getting is a good cuddle

L

ast year, December 23, 3am.

I’m suddenly awoken by a dazzling purple light in the form of a garden gnome at the open window. “I was here on your primitive planet a while back, confused by your flog game.” “You mean golf.”

“Whatever...” “What do you want?”

I asked.

“An answer to another conundrum,” he replied. “What’s that?” “Christmas,” he said, bemused. “One of your quaint songs says there are chestnuts roasting on an open fire, and I don’t see any.

And no sleigh bells in the snow – and not even any snow. Neither have I been able to locate a chimney, let alone some obese elderly gentleman in tacky red pyjamas trying to slide down one.

Let me guess. This is a practical joke.”

“Well, it’s complicated; like trying to explain cricket to an American.” “What’s an American?’

“Never mind…

Goodwill to all men

Photo courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

“A lot of it is folklore for children,”

80

I began, gamely. “But it comes from a religious celebration.” “The Red Pyjama religion?” “No. Christian people are celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, their saviour.” “Was that recently?” “It was 2,000 years ago.”

“Right, recently…

“So what has that to do with a tubby humanoid stuck on a rooftop suffering smoke inhalation?” “It’s a myth, fun for little kids.” “Not a lot of fun for the fat bloke.” “It’s just pretend,” I said. “You mean like anti-aging cream? But what do the ankle biters get out of it?” “Toys and stuff. Parents tell them Santa is delivering gifts, a surprise for when they wake up in the morning.”

“When they wake up?! Hey, they woke up to that corny little lark long ago. Is this part of your mass exchange of Christmas presents? None of my business, but why would you swap a laptop and a bicycle for a pair of Clan McKenzie socks and a cheap toaster?

It’s unfair. No wonder your ‘peace on earth and goodwill to all men’ mantra is short lived. Next day, you get back to blowing each other to bits – and not

a million miles from where your Jesus was born.”

“It might look like that to an outsider, but Christmas is a time of peace.” “Then you might cut down on the angry binge drinking, and while you’re at it give the turkeys a break. What’s the deal with massacring all your wildlife for a birthday party?’ “It’s an old tradition.”

“So was burning people at the stake,” he said bitterly.

“Mistletoe above the door is another tradition,” I said. “What!? You mean the species viscum album; European mistletoe, of the family santalaceae?

Why hang it over your door?” he asked, incredulous. “It’s like, you know, holly.”

“Are you kidding me? You mean the holly of a genus with 600 species in the family aquifoliaceae? What’s that got to do with Jesus’ birthday?” “I don’t think you understand,” I replied, exasperated.

“I understand this,” he said firmly. “You should stop giving each other silly sweaters and iPhones on Christmas Day. A hug is all you need. It works for us.”

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 17 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and he has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

Find more from Peter December 2016 www.arounddb.com

@ www.arounddb.com

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