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VOYAG E THROUGH TIME
Hong Kong Maritime Photographs, 1940s - 1970s
Photos by Hedda Morrison, Brian Brake and Edward Stokes
香港海事攝影展 - 1940 年代至 1970 年代
Hedda Morrison 、 Brian Brake 及 Edward Stokes
The exhibition photos, taken between the 1940s and 1970s, portr ay Hong Kong’s harbour, its port, shipping, maritime life, and the boat people. The images cover about 30 years. Those dec ades saw Hong Kong recover from the war. Then, despite challenges and severe setbacks, gradually both an economic and social resurgence took hold.
The Voyage Through Time exhibition offers free entry, while museum gallery admission requires ticket purchase. 「歲月遊蹤」展覽為免費入場，參觀博物館其他展館則需購票。
Hong Kong Maritime Museum, Central Pier 8
13 .11. 2024 – 31.3. 2025
Monday to Friday : 09:30 - 17:30
Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays : 10:00 - 19:00
hkmaritimemuseum.org
CONTACT US
@ BAY MEDIA GROUP
P: +852 2987 0167
E: info@baymedia.com.hk
W: www.arounddb.com
PHILIP JAY
Publisher/ Owner
philip@ba y media.com.hk
RACHEL AINSLEY
Managing editor
rachel@ba y media.com.hk
SARIN ALE
Art director
sarin@ba y media.com.hk
KAYLI LIEBENBERG
Client services
kayli@ba y media.com.hk
CONTRIBUTORS
Ray Au, Imogen Clyde, Nicole Innocenti, Elizabeth Kerr, Peter Sherwood
PHOTOGRAPHER
Richard Gordon
www.richardgordonphotograph y .com
PRINTING
Champion Design & Production Co. Ltd
2/F, 20-24 Kwai Wing Road, Kwai Chung, New Territories
BAY MEDIA GROUP
Flat 6E Elegance Court, Hillgrove Village, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island
NORTH POLE POST
As you shop the DB Christmas Market on December 8, be sure to stop by the Vi Galerie stall where you can pick up festive products of all kinds – from personalised keepsakes to handcrafted ornaments. Vi Galerie is also famous for the North Pole Post, where children get to write their letters to Santa, and everyone is guaranteed to receive a reply. For more on Vi Galerie, a small local business focused on homeware products and seasonal home decor and accessories, visit vigalerie.com.
Book now to have a personal Christmas photo shoot in December with a professional DB photographer. It’s a great way to create lasting memories, and you can opt to make an e-card or have one printed. To book a session, WhatsApp Richard Gordon at 9127 0977. Richard’s photos regularly feature in Around DB and you can see more of his work at www.richardgordonphotography.com.
Happenings STUFF TO KNOW
TEAM FEAR CHALLENGE
Youth across DB have been training hard for this year’s Team FEAR Challenge which takes place across the coastlines, villages and hills of DB on December 1. Participants compete in teams of two, and there are two courses of varying length and difficulty – an 8.5km course for Juniors (U9, U10, U11) and a 10km course for Intermediates (U12, U13, U17). All competitors are ready to trail run, climb gorges, coasteer, kayak, tackle an obstacle course and do a water jump.
The first teams (boys, girls and mixed) usually cross the finish line in two hours and all competitors are expected to finish within four hours. The course is well marked with ribbons and there are marshals along the entire route providing guidance and backup. Racers must wear gloves and a bike helmet or equivalent head protection at all times; they must also carry sufficient water for their own use. Registration is at the DB Plaza pier from 7am to 8am, with awards presented for the fastest teams and runners-up per age category at 1.30pm.
An important element of participating in Team FEAR is raising money for Youth Outreach (yo.org.hk). Youth Outreach (YO) supports local young people from less advantaged backgrounds by providing award-winning education programmes, youth mentoring and counselling services.
Teams can raise money for YO by collecting sponsors, and everyone in the community is invited to make a donation. In past years, Team FEAR has been able to hand over a cheque of over HK$100,000 to YO. You can make a transfer to HSBC Account No: 652215526-838 (Far East Adventure Racers). To find out more, email info@team-fear.com or visit www.team-fear.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Team FEAR.]
ST NICHOLAS VISITS
One World Spirit Association has arranged for St Nicholas, the thirdcentury Catholic saint who inspired the modern version of Santa Claus, to pay a visit to DB homes on December 7. Families with children aged two to six years can sign up for a visit, and then prepare a small gift for St Nicholas to deliver when he knocks on their door. Email admin1@1worldspirit.org to enrol. [PHOTO COURTESY OF OWS.]
& Events! IN DECEMBER!
XMAS TREE DELIVERY
XmasTreeOnline.hk has been delivering direct to DB homes for over a decade. You can pick out Douglas Firs (from HK$1,558), Noble Firs (from HK$1,758) and Nordmann Firs (from HK$1,758), plus those essential accessories – tree stands, fairy-string LED lights, baubles and wreaths. The team delivers to DB and Tung Chung daily, 9am to 2pm, in early December. The fee is HK$258, with an additional charge of HK$50 per floor if your building doesn’t have an elevator. A removal and recycling service is provided in January. To place your order, visit xmastree.online.
PETER PAN, THE PANTO
You know you want to! Oh yes you do! It’s time to book tickets for Hong Kong Players’ Peter Pan, The Panto: Return to Neverland running through December 8 at the Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wanchai. Hong Kong Players’ pantomimes have been a highlight of the Christmas festivities for over 60 years and with Peter Pan , we can expect classic panto fun for all the family – plus a generous helping of fairy dust. To book tickets, visit www.popticket.hk. For more on the Hong Kong Players, visit www.hkplayers.com.
[PHOTO COURTESY OF Hong Kong Players.]
CHRISTMAS PARTY TAKEAWAY
Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong is taking the stress out of the holidays, providing a full Christmas Party Takeaway through December 27. Enjoy free delivery within DB for orders over HK$2,000. Scan the QR code or email cafe@aubergediscoverybay.com for the order form.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
DEC 7 | GATHER AT THE PLANT MARKET in Community Green Square from 2pm to 4pm. Visit Facebook @DynamicDB.
DEC 8 | SHOP THE DB CHRISTMAS MARKET in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm. Visit www.handmadehongkong.com.
DEC 8 | JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP! Meet at the Nim Shue Wan gate at 2.10pm. Email dana@plasticfreeseas.org.
ALL MONTH | DONATE PRELOVED FURNITURE to people in need through DB Mothers & Friends. To arrange for pick-up, visit Facebook @dbmf.collection.
WILD ANIMAL SPORTS!
On December 17, Sean Doherty, a DB resident of seven years, is launching Wild Animal Sports! Woodland Birds at Bat, the third title in his Wild Animal Sports! series of board books. Colourful illustrations and interactive elements on every page ensure that children have a blast reading, while exploring with their sensory skills. To coincide with the launch, Sean is organising a Q&A session where kids can ask questions of the star player in the book (WhatsApp 9866 5959 to enrol). The entire Wild Animal Sports! series is available on Amazon and Whimsy Pages Publishing, at Bookazine, Kelly & Walsh and Hong Kong Book Centre.
DBIS CHRISTMAS CONCERT ON THE PITCH
Always a highlight of the DB calendar, Discovery Bay International School’s Christmas Concert on the Pitch takes place on December 11. All are welcome – head along to enjoy an array of festive tunes and refreshments. What a wonderful way to start the holiday season! To find out more, visit www.dbis.edu.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF DBIS.]
DB OPEN FIGURE SKATING CHALLENGE
Make your way to Discovery Bay Ice Rink from December 6 to 8 to watch the DB Open FS Challenge. ISIAsia figure skaters of all levels are grouped according to their test level in solo, ensemble and speed-racing categories. Spin Master, in which skaters perform without music, and Jump Fiesta, in which skaters perform three required jumps in any order with a minimum of connecting steps, are new events for 2024. To find out more, visit www.dbicerink.com.
SANTA MEET AND GREET
Treat the kids on Christmas Day and Boxing Day by taking them to DB North Plaza for a Santa Meet and Greet at 3pm or 6pm. This is their chance to grab a photo with Santa and, if you time it right, they can also pick up a free Christmas Egg Waffle Giveaway (at 2pm, 4pm and 5pm). To find out more, visit www.visitdiscoverybay.com.
OPEN-AIR WINE WALK
Make your way to DB North (Auberge main entrance) from December 13 to 15, from 2pm to 9pm, to savour DB’s first open-air Christmas Wine Walk. While admission is free, a HK$180 wine pass entitles you to three tokens redeemable for wine and food, wine-tasting privileges and a wine glass with holder. Shop over 30 stalls packed with international fine wines, gourmet treats, Christmas-themed products and local crafts. To find out more, visit www.visitdiscoverybay.com.
CWCC S1 ADMISSION
Tung Chung-based Caritas Wu Cheng-chung Secondary School (CWCC) is enrolling students for the 2025/26 school year. S1 admission runs from January 2 to 16, and you can sign up for a school visit on January 3 from 4.15pm to 5.15pm. A renowned, government-funded secondary school (Grade 7 to 12), CWCC is multicultural and fully inclusive, with students and teachers harking from over 30 countries. The HKDSE curriculum is taught in English alongside a small Cantonese stream. To know more, visit www.cwcc.edu.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF CWCC.]
THE SNOWMAN & THE BEAR
Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman & The Bear (with Film) are two heartwarming Christmas adventures set to animated film and enchanting music by Howard Blake. Watch them on the big screen as City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong performs the orchestral score alongside young solo singers and storyteller Debra Jones, a DB resident. It’s a wonderful Christmas treat for the whole family, suitable for kids aged three and up! For tickets to this year’s performances at Shatin Town Hall Auditorium, on December 21 at 2.30pm and 5pm, visit www.eventbrite.com or www.urbtix.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Snowman Enterprises.]
IL TRITTICO
Musica Viva is bringing Il Trittico – three one-act operas by Puccini – to the Concert Hall, Hong Kong City Hall on December 13 and 14 at 7.30pm, and December 15 at 2.30pm. The first opera Il Tabarro sees a love triangle unfold with fatal consequences; the second Suor Angelica , said to be Puccini’s favourite, is an uplifting tale of religious redemption; and the third, Gianni Schicchi is a farcical romp in which an avaricious family are tricked out of their rightful inheritance. For tickets, head to www.urbtix.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Musica Viva.]
THE BRIDGE LAUNCH
Rachel Humphreys is launching The Bridge, a small independent learning centre for students who learn differently, in DB North Plaza on January 6. Small class sizes (4:1) will enable Bridge educators to create bespoke, highly personalised learning experiences, supporting students, aged 12 to 18 years, to grow in confidence, gain qualifications and have a positive direction for the future. The flexible curriculum, ideal for students with ASD, ADHD, SpLDs and Anxiety will offer a range of pathways including the Ontario High School Diploma and DfE-approved Functional Skills in English, Maths and Digital. An afternoon learning programme, including health and wellbeing, work-based learning and Hong Kong adventures will be available for students who can manage a full-day timetable. To find out more, email Rachel, the former principal at DMPS, at rachel.humphreys@bridgelearn.net.
XMAS WREATH-MAKING WORKSHOP
Sign up solo, with a partner or as a group of three to make your own one-of-a-kind Christmas wreath on December 21, from 11am to 1pm, at Discovery Bay Office Centre. The workshop is led by the team at Let Hope Bloom Florist and kids/ beginners are welcome. The fee is HK$300 per group, and you can enrol at forms.gle/myTssa9NchM1wCc79.
PRESTIGIOUS FOODS
IS GIFTING 38 BOXES OF PREMIUM MEDJOOL DATES
TO THE FIRST 38 WELLNESS ENTHUSIASTS WHO SENDS THEM THE MESSAGE “GIFT38” OVER WHATSAPP
Experience the thrill of super-soft organic Medjool dates – a natural energy boost packed with flavour and nutrients. Rich in fibre, potassium and antioxidants, Medjool dates support digestion, muscle recovery and sustained energy. Whether you’re crushing fitness goals or overcoming a sugar craving, they’re the ultimate go-to treat.
Grab your chance to indulge in a snack that powers your day and pleases your taste buds. Scan the QR code and WhatsApp Prestigious Foods to claim your complimentary box of premium Medjool dates. For more from Prestigious Foods, visit www.brandprestigious.com.
CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST ISSUE’S WINNERS
Rebecca Tolian and Amy Yuen who have each won two tickets to see Hong Kong Players’
HOW TO WIN!
Around DB prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until the 10th of the month to apply. Simply scan the QR code or go to www.arounddb.com/giveaways, select the giveaway you want, and enter your details into the online form. (Terms and conditions apply.)
Peter Pan, The Panto: Return to Neverland on November 30.
Out & About! WHAT YOU'VE
BEEN UP TO!
AT THE DB DRAGON BOAT GALA
The DB Dragon Boat Gala on October 27 saw fiercely contested mixed, open, ladies, over 45 and community races at Tai Pak Wan. [PHOTOS BY Sarin Ale & Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com.]
DBCOC Mixed Race (Cup)
1st place: 中國路橋對面海
2nd place: Seagods Red
3rd place: Team Mushu Black
DBCOC Mixed Race (Plate)
1st place: Today Fit
2nd place: GSIS Dragon Team
3rd place: Team Mushu Gold
DBCOC Mixed Race (Bowl)
1st place: DBS Bank Red Dragons
2nd place: LTA Dragon Boat Club
3rd place: Sea Cucumbers
Discovery Bay Transportation Services Gala Race
1st place: KML - The Barrels
2nd place: 中國路橋對面海
3rd place: MBTA
F.H. Security & Fred & Willie Community Race
1st place: 正誠自由龍
2nd place: DBDB
3rd place: Dutch Connexion
SINOPEC Ladies’ Race:
1st place: Renegades
2nd place: RHKYC
3rd place: LoveTogether Filipino Dynamo
Man Truck & Bus A45 Race
1st place: MBTA
2nd place: Lamma Dragons
3rd place: Sea Cucumbers
Hong Kong ResortLoveTogether@DB Open Race
1st place: KML - The Barrels
2nd place: A+ Travel Dragon
3rd place: Youthful Dragon
CELEBRATING HALLOWEEN
There was plenty of spooky fun to be had in DB at the end of October with a Halloween Kids Costume Contest and night market on October 27, plus trick-or-treating on Headland Drive on October 31. [PHOTOS BY Sarin Ale.]
DB WINTER WONDERLAND LIGHTING CEREMONY
HKRCL kicked off the Christmas festivities on November 22 with a Winter Wonderland Lighting Ceremony in DB North Plaza. Attendees enjoyed a colourful parade complete with marching band, a Santa meet-and-greet, Italian masquerade dancing and acrobatic performances. [PHOTOS BY Sarin Ale.]
AT THE DB 10K
Some 300 runners competed in the DB 10K on November 8: Hideo Harry Loasby came first in the men’s category, Rachel Ashcroft in the women’s. Over HK$70,000 was raised for RUN Hong Kong. [PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com.]
ENJOYING A VOYAGE THROUGH TIME
A fair few VIPs, including Guest of Honour Bernard Chan and key members of past and present governments, were spotted at the November 12 launch party for Voyage Through Time: Hong Kong Maritime Photographs, 1940s–1970s. The exhibition, curated by 10-year DB resident Ed Stokes, runs to the end of March at Hong Kong Maritime Museum and features photos by Hedda Morrison (1940s), Brian Brake (1960s-70s) and Ed Stokes (1979). Admission to this exibition is free. [PHOTOS COURTESY OF Kachick; photo copyright Vincent Chen.]
Jolly Good Fellows!
TIME TO PARTY
Elizabeth Kerr sits down with the South islanders bringing birthday happiness to local kids in need
PHOTOS BY Sarin Ale & courtesy of Edward Fernandes
It’s an unseasonably warm morning in Mui Wo, and Pete Manktelow and Edward Fernandes are sitting at a table facing the water at Village Kitchen. The gregarious Pete looks casual in a Hong Kong Freemasons charity run polo shirt and chinos, toting a knapsack. Edward, however, is dressed properly: a classy three-piece suit and starched shirt; he carries a briefcase. Along with a third partner, Hong Kong islander David Streatfield, and occasionally Edward’s youngest son Francis, they run Birthday Happiness Asia (BHA). Its concept is simple: throw birthday parties, “joyous parties”, for underprivileged children, including the roughly 50,000 living in cage homes – in 2024.
“It’s a very, very special cause,” begins East Sussex native and Pui O resident since 1994 Pete. “A lot of people complain and say, ‘HK$6,000 to organise a birthday party for children is ridiculous. Why don’t you put it in education?’ This is more for children’s mental health. Having all those special memories is important.”
SECURING CHARITABLE STATUS
BHA officially launched in October after securing its critical section 88 charitable status; an achievement that took four years of trying. As a finance and corporate services pro, that was Pete’s primary goal for BHA once he’d set up the business side. BHA sprang from its earlier iteration, Birthday Happiness Hong Kong, founded by Edward and his wife Marilou Edora. After Marilou passed away, Edward started afresh with BHA, which pulls double duty as a way to memorialise his wife as well do good.
The BHA team held an official launch party at Club Lusitano in Central on October 28. Nearly 150 leading business people from Hong Kong and Singapore attended, alongside a good turnout of
academics and diplomats, including the Consul General of the Netherlands.
The organisation is already flying: BHA has birthday parties planned in Yau Ma Tei, Wong Tai Sin, Yuen Long, Sham Shui Po, Aberdeen and Kowloon City to take it through to the end of the year. Armed with charitable status, the team is gearing up for a busy 2025, but despite his contributions, Pete keeps a low profile.
“I’m the back-of-house-type person. Edward’s front of house. He’s the one with the shining face.”
OPPORTUNITIES TO GET INVOLVED
At its core, BHA is based on an existing concept –a spin on a programme started in Argentina in the 1970s. “Two guys went into local orphanages where there were children that had been abandoned on the streets due to the economic crisis. They threw traditional birthday parties for these kids, and the idea spread to the rest of South America, Central America, and so on,” Edward explains. Thanks to the inspiration from Argentina, and and Edward and Marilou’s shared experience of growing up in large families without a lot of spare cash, BHA was born.
“Unfortunately, my wife and I never had that,” says Edward. “But we made sure that our children and our grandchildren did.” Now, as the saying goes, he’s paying it forward.
BHA gets support from Caritas Hong Kong, Love 21, Hong Kong Student Aid Society, Tung Wan Mok Law Shui Wah School, Ebenezer School and the Society for Community Organization among others. Thanks to that new charity status, interest from partnering organisations is expanding, and the number of parties BHA can hold monthly is increasing. Know that BHA is constantly on the lookout for more sponsors, volunteers and partnering organisations;
“IT’S A VERY, VERY SPECIAL CAUSE. THIS IS FOR CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH. HAVING ALL THOSE SPECIAL MEMORIES IS IMPORTANT
- PETE MANKTELOW
donations of cash, party supplies and gifts are also welcomed. There are numerous ways to get involved: check www.bhasia.org.
As of now, BHA works on a lean budget, with Edward its sole full-time staff. Born in Kenya, Edward and his family moved around a lot, emigrating to the UK in 1966 before eventually settling in Hong Kong. It’s here he met Marilou and had two sons and two daughters. After Marilou’s untimely death, he gave up a career in international property to dedicate all his time to BHA.
BRINGING FOOD AND FUN TO THE TABLE
A party with BHA is like any other. Edward and a few volunteers arrive at the designated location, usually a community space of some sort, and proceed to set up. This involves decorations, food stations, game stations and gear for any special requests – if Batman’s on the guest list, for instance, he’ll need an outfit. Also part of the prep is a rundown for the staff about what the celebrant or celebrants and their guests might be dealing with in their daily lives. Edward does his homework and uncovers any specific challenges; making sure, for instance, that he and any male volunteers tread carefully around girls who may have been sexually abused.
The volunteers then get down to the business of throwing a party – gifting, games, cake and a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” – in any number of languages upon request.
There’s no taking the cheapest option either. BHA budgets HK$200 to HK$300 per toy, and opts not to get Shenzhen knock-offs. Edward only cuts corners where it doesn’t impact the children. “A volunteer, long gone now, once asked me why we don’t find cheaper toys. I turned around and asked if they’d cheap out on their own children.” That’s a mic drop.
BHA makes sure the food is nutritious and fun (that is possible), and allows for a few sodas. It’s a special occasion after all. The smiles are worth it.
BROADENING HORIZONS
But why a birthday party? Many of us have heard about that author, doctor, artist or activist who encountered someone who altered the course of their life as a kid. Edward insists that kind of value exists in BHA’s parties, and that those intangible knock-on effects should be accessible to all children. The parties have the ability to open doors and minds, and broaden horizons.
“A couple of months ago we had a party in Tin Shui Wai, and the cakemaker went back to the school later and gave the kids a cooking lesson on how
to bake a cake and make a pizza from scratch,” he describes. “That’s broadening horizons. One of those children might go on to become a chef. Marilou insisted the toys we give out don’t promote sexism, racism or violence, and we hope those toys will last a lifetime as a physical reminder of a happy memory. Maybe one of these celebrants is thinking of ending their life and suddenly remembers when a bunch of complete strangers came in celebrating their birthday.”
The larger goal is to truly put the “Asia” in BHA, and several organisations across the region have expressed interest in taking up the baton. “That’s been our dream for a long time… expansion across the region, with the headquarters in Hong Kong. That’s where we’re looking long term,” says Edward. So far, there’s solid interest in Shanghai, the Philippines, Singapore and Australia. Locations like Indonesia, Malaysia and India would obviously demand expertise on the ground to cater to cultural considerations. “We’ll give you the model. We’ll give you the methodology. And you can run with it,” finishes Edward. Because despite language or culture, there are disadvantaged children everywhere who could use a little joy. “Save one, save the world, right?”
JOYOUS PARTIES FOR UNDERPRIVILEGED KIDS
Let the Games Begin! CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN
There aren’t many sleeps left until the big day, so to help you get organised, Trisha Hughes shares her idea of a strategically planned DB celebration
PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com
Itake my hat off to all the amazing women who “wing it” over Christmas. The only way I know how to “do” the festive season is to organise it with military precision and stick rigidly to a to-do list from December 1 onwards. I have to adhere strictly to this list because if I don’t, everything snowballs and total chaos ensues.
Christmas is a time for socialising and making merry but it’s not all fun and games, especially if you’re juggling kids’ activities and a full-time job in the leadup. Advance planning is needed to put you in the driver’s seat. Starting now means you’ll spend less money and keep the credit card from skyrocketing to Mars. A long lead-in to the holiday season also cuts out the frantic panic-buy on December 24, which sees you staring wide-eyed at empty shelves, alongside your equally frazzled neighbours.
Keeping all that in mind, I’d like to share my idea of a strategically planned DB Christmas with you.
DECEMBER 1 TO 3
Assuming you’ve already done your online shopping, you will feel a certain well-earned smugness in early December when you start receiving the parcels in the mail. Find time to wrap presents as they arrive, and pop them straight in the post if they’re headed overseas. Write and post your Christmas cards now too, remembering that Toysland has an excellent selection.
Next up, take stock of your decorations. It’s always fun putting up the tree and decorating the house but after all the festivities are over, packing them away properly is often way down on our list of
priorities. So check your “decks” now, and don’t panic if anything has weathered badly. You can find replacements at the DB Christmas Market on December 8 (more on that later) and if your fairy lights are bust, you can pick out some new ones at Japan Home Centre.
This is the weekend to buy the ingredients for the Christmas cake to end all Christmas cakes, so get ready to make the first of many “festive” trips to Fusion. You’ll need the dry fruit and the brandy at this stage because the mixture has to soak for at least two weeks, more if you’re organised. While in the supermarket, you can also pick up your Christmas pudding, or the ingredients to make it.
DECEMBER 4 TO 10
This week is “set up the Christmas tree week”. Remember the golden rule: two weeks before to assemble and two weeks afterwards to take it down. You may well have an artificial tree that you bring out every year but, if you like the real thing, XmasTreeOnline.hk delivers Douglas, Noble and Nordmann firs to DB, plus those essential baubles, fairy lights and wreathes.
Forgotten a present, or three? It’s the DB Christmas Market on December 8, so you’ll be able to search for that perfect gift: an Angel Wong Image fascinator maybe, a singing bowl from Himalayas Craft or a personalised Christmas stocking from Vi Galerie. Wander the stalls in DB Plaza to pick up some extras for your Christmas table or decor, and be sure to drop by the House of Fine Wines booth not just for a couple of cases of first-class wine
but also for some imported gourmet goodies – the truffle sauce is to die for.
To save yourself the possible disaster of either a tough or too pink turkey, order a pre-cooked one this week. The Auberge is providing takeaway turkeys, and as many trimmings as you like, right through to December 27, and Epic Foods’ annual festive catering menu is also well worth a look. If tradition is what you like and cooking your own is a must, then you’ll want to pre-order a turkey or ham. For holiday meats (and treats), I’ll be looking to European Touch and Market Place, and I can’t do Christmas without Il Bel Paese’s deli/ party snacks.
DECEMBER 11 TO 17
By now the festivities will really have kicked in and you’ll have neighbours dropping round for celebratory drinks, so be sure to head to Watson’s Wine to load up on Prosecco and your Christmas spirits of choice. Don’t forget the rum for the rum balls (Bundaberg rum is fabulous) because this week is “rum ball week”. Make them now and they’ll be even yummier in a week’s time, having soaked up the rum in a sealed container at the back of the fridge.
This week too, it’s DB Christmas Wine Walk, running December 13 to 15 at DB North (Auberge main entrance). Pick up a HK$180 pass for exclusive wine-tasting privileges, and shop over 30 stalls packed not just with wine but with gourmet treats, Christmas-themed products and local crafts.
This one always gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list but try to find time this week to pamper yourself. My guess is you live in walking distance of either Spa Botanica or DB Bay Spa. Hopefully you can spare an hour or so for a much-needed facial or massage, but at the very least you’ll want your nails looking their best on the day. Have them done now (Dream Nail does a grand job) or book an appointment for the 21st. Think about your hair this week too. Will you have time to squeeze in a blow dry on December 24? Make your booking at Afflatus Hair Workshop or Salon De Coiffure now to avoid disappointment.
DECEMBER 18 TO 24
Things are starting to heat up now but take it easy, you’re well ahead of the game! All of your presents are wrapped, your cards are on their way to family and friends back home and your tree is shimmering and heavy with ornaments in the corner.
There is however a downside to being so prepared.
You’ll probably find that the case of wine, the chocolates and the rum balls that you made last week have disappeared. You’ll need to find time to replenish your stock.
Four days to go: book a table for Boxing Day lunch, somewhere fresh and al fresco like DBrasserie or Pasha. Head for your pre-booked mani-pedi, buy some flowers at Bloom or Gillian Florist, and dash home to do any last-minute wrapping and to recharge the camera.
Two days to go: now’s the time to shop for fresh fruit and vegetables. There will undoubtedly be others like you, madly waving their lists around, so be prepared for the long haul. After that, start defrosting the turkey and… OMG, make the Christmas cake!
One day to go: if you weren’t already doing it, panic! Make the stuffing, locate the kids’ Christmas stockings, leave a mince pie out for Santa. Oh, and buy more Prosecco (and Alka-Seltzer) because someone’s bound to drop by for a nightcap.
CHRISTMAS DAY
Just breathe. Laugh a lot and enjoy.
Of course, some of you will have opted to head down to the Auberge on Christmas Day for a fussfree festive lunch at Café Bord de Mer. In that case, the same rule applies. Laugh a lot and enjoy.
Merry Christmas everyone!
CRAFT BEER
DB BREW www.dbbrewbeer.com
Experience the unique flavours of DB Brew’s home-brewed craft beer available in 330ml cans. DB Brew releases a new type of beer every eight to 10 weeks, with Stout and IPA on offer over the holidays. To ensure you receive the freshest beer, the DB-based team only begins canning after order confirmation. Orders below HK$500 are available for self-pick-up; orders over HK$500 qualify for free delivery (within DB).
WhatsApp: 5480 1597
Email: admin@dbbrewbeer.com
CHEESE CLUB www.cheeseclub.hk
European fine food specialist Cheese Club has crafted an amazing Christmas offer comprising seafood, cold cuts, celebration meats, cheese of course, gourmet treats and drinks. Must-tries include the Baby Kis oysters, readyto-eat roasts, brie with truffle and Don Giovannino panettone. Pre-order by December 8 for the best prices. Missed the date? Shop the online store for delivery to DB, TC and SL.
WhatsApp: 6576 4221
Email: cs@cheeseclub.hk
De La Valley sources and selects only the finest cuts of meats from the best international producers. Backed by 25 years in premium meat sourcing, the team guarantees value for money, with wholesale prices. Fish, seafood, caviar, dairy products, groceries, wine and more are also on offer. De La Valley delivers to DB every day for orders over HK$1,200; use coupon code XMASDB25 this month to get 25% off on your full order.
WhatsApp: 9440 7077
Email: contact@delavalley.com
FINE FOOD
PLANTIN KAVIARI
www.plantinkaviari.hk
Plantin Kaviari, by Gourmet en Provence, has supplied Hong Kong homes and restaurants with gourmet goodies since 2009. The Kaviari Paris Caviar Gift Box, pictured, is customisable with the caviar type and size of your choice, and priced from HK$710. Seasonal bestsellers include fresh white truffles, turkey, capon, foie gras and oysters. Order by December 12 for home delivery by Christmas Eve.
Tel: 9451 6412
Email: contact@plantinkaviari.hk
SINGING BOWLS
HIMALAYAS CRAFT
www.himalayascraft.com
For all those interested in sound healing, Himalayas Craft imports its handmade singing bowls direct from Nepal. The range includes both antique and new, decorative and plain singing bowls, with sets priced from HK$5,500 to HK$11,200, and iindividual bowls from HK$100 to HK$2,500. Shop online using the promo code HCLDB024 to get 20% off all December orders.
WhatsApp/ Tel: 9158 9181
Email: himalayascrafts@gmail.com
HOME DECOR
FINE FOOD
MAHIKA’S LABEL
PRESTIGIOUS FOODS
www.brandprestigious.com
https://shorturl.at/sNbue
With a vision to celebrate Indian artistry while providing high-quality, affordable options for those looking to enhance their living spaces, Mahika’s Label delivers a wide range of home accessories with a focus on table, bed and bath linens. In creating her line, Mahika blends traditional craftsmanship with modern designs, ensuring that each piece tells a story and adds warmth to any home.
Niche online grocer Prestigious Foods specialises in nature’s candy: supersoft organic Medjool dates. Packed with nutrients and natural sweetness, keto-friendly and energy boosting, they’re a guilt-free treat, and a superb pre- and post-workout fuel, supporting digestion, muscle recovery and sustained energy. Prestigious Foods delivers to DB, TC and SL: allow two to three days after placing your order.
Tel: 5295 1684
Focused on bespoke diamond engagement rings and diamond and gemstone fine jewellery, Valentina Fine Jewellery has all its pieces handcrafted at its Hong Kong atelier. The adorable bee charm pendant, pictured, is handcrafted in 18k yellow and white gold, with black, yellow and colourless diamonds. Each bee and chain is made to order and can be customised: allow a two-week lead time at Xmas.
Email: mahika.arora@gmail.com
TOYS & GAMES
TOYS CLUB
www.itoysclub.com
With a floor space of 4,000 square feet, Toys Club is packed with toys, books and gifts for kids and adults of all ages. Take your pick from new-born, STEAM and educational toys, LEGO, outdoor and party toys, and classic toys. The wide range of card games and board games make for perfect Xmas gifts. Shop online or at the Central store.
Tel: 2167 8474
Email: toysclub@hotmail.com
WhatsApp: 9542 0034
Email: info@valentinafine.com
WINE
HOUSE OF FINE WINES
www.hofws.com
At House of Fine Wines (HOFWS) you get to eat well, drink well and live well! The 4,000 square feet of warehouse space is stocked with over 500 different wines, plus a fabulous selection of imported gourmet food including Valnerina Truffles, Mulino Le Pietre Pasta and Biscottificio Belli. World-class products for every budget are directly sourced, with free delivery for local orders over HK$1,000.
Tel: 9339 6322
Email: sean@hofws.com
PERSONALISED VELVET CHRISTMAS STOCKING, VI GALERIE, HK$230
HOLIDAY CHEER SLEEVE FOR CLASSIC CANDLE, DIPTYQUE, HK$920
WWW.DIPTYQUEPARIS.COM/EN_HK
LUCKY CAT PENDANT IN 18K GOLD, VALENTINA FINE JEWELLERY, HK$32,000
NATURAL VEGETABLE-TANNED FLORENTINE-LEATHER HAND STITCHED GLASSES CASE, ATELIER BOUCLIER, HK$1,500
WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/ BOUCLIER_ATELIER
WWW.JOHNHARDY.COM
WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/ BOUCLIER_ATELIER SPEAR 14K GOLD FLEX CUFF, JOHN HARDY, HK$64,350
NEPALESE SINGING BOWLS, HIMALAYAS
HK$100-HK$2,500
WWW.HIMALAYASCRAFT.COM
Kids Onboard!MISSION POSSIBLE
To raise great children, you first need to become a great parent. Check out five trending methodologies that will set you up for 2025
PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock
As we approach 2025, several key trends are emerging that reflect parents’ everevolving priorities and challenges. These trends encompass mental health awareness, technology-driven innovations, personalised education options and a deepened focus on sustainability and inclusivity. Parents are also learning from the past: jettisoning the overly permissive parenting styles of recent years in favour of – dare we say it – more of an old-school, authoritative approach that’s tried-and tested, and proven to make family life easier.
Let’s dive into some of the trends that parents are embracing in order to set the stage for a generation that is resilient, empathetic and well-prepared for the future.
LIGHTHOUSE PARENTING
Lighthouse parenting, currently trending, is something we can definitely expect to see a lot of in 2025. The term was popularised by Dr Kenneth Ginsburg, a paediatrician and author, who coined the phrase to describe a grounded and everpresent parenting style that combines a desire to nurture and protect with an understanding that children need the freedom to find their own way. As Dr Ginsburg puts it, “Our job as parents is to stand steady, like a lighthouse, to guide our children, not to steer every move they make.”
Lighthouse parenting strikes a balance between two extremes – on the one hand, there’s helicopter parenting with parents ever-ready to swoop in at the first sign of distress. On the other hand, there’s hands-off parenting, which prioritises children’s independence above all else. Lighthouse parenting takes the middle ground, emphasising guidance over control, and resilience over dependence.
Lighthouse parenting means being emotionally available and creating a home environment where kids feel safe to express their feelings, ask questions and make mistakes. It’s also about guiding children through challenges rather than solving problems for them. There’s an understanding that children who are allowed to take risks and work through problems on their own tend to be more resilient and better equipped to handle stress. By promoting self-efficacy, lighthouse parenting builds a strong foundation for emotional intelligence and problem-solving. It encourages kids to see challenges as opportunities to grow rather than crises to be avoided.
Having reflected on the mistakes that created the “snowflake” generation – a term that denotes weakness, self-entitlement and an inability to cope with life’s realities – today’s parents are refusing to
PARENTS ARE DECIDING TO TAKE A BACKSEAT – LETTING CHILDREN FIGHT THEIR OWN BATTLES AND COME OUT STRONGER AS A RESULT
mollycoddle. The aim is to protect children, without engendering dependency; to make children feel special, without enabling egotism or complacency; to inform children about the world, without encouraging irrational anxieties, victimism and nihilism. (No easy task!)
At the end of the day, overprotective parenting is a habit that’s begging to be broken. “Benign neglect” is a buzzword for 2025 that’s not as contentious as it sounds. Does it mean ignoring children completely? Of course not. But it does mean taking a step back from intensive parenting styles and letting kids, well, be kids. Parents are deciding to take a backseat – letting children be bored on the bus instead of handing them a tablet, letting them fail a class instead of doing their homework for them, letting them fight their own battles and come out stronger as a result.
GENTLE-ISH PARENTING
The gentle parenting philosophy has been saturating parents’ social media feeds for some years; the goal being to raise confident, independent and happy children through empathy, respect, understanding and discussion. But moving into 2025, gentle parenting continues to morph into a new form, with parental authority getting more of a look in.
Instead of focusing on punishment and reward, gentle parenting focuses on improving a child’s selfawareness and understanding of their own behaviour. But all too often it is confused with permissiveness… which is where gentle-ish parenting comes in.
Children need limits and a certain amount of structure to best function – and increasingly, parents want to be more consistent with discipline. Rather than feeling they have to accommodate children’s negative behaviour, they want to know they can set limits and follow through with consequences.
Importantly, today’s form of discipline is not about punishment: rather than spanking and timeouts, parents are instead putting strong boundaries and limits in place, giving children a roadmap for the behaviour that’s expected of them. Gentleish parenting leaves room for discussion – there’s an acceptance that modern children need to understand the “why” behind parental rules in order to comply with them – but there’s also an acceptance that there are times when parents have to stand firm and rule the roost.
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
As concerns about climate change and sustainability become even more pressing, eco-conscious parenting continues to grow in importance. Parents are becoming increasingly aware of their environmental impact and are striving to raise their children with values that prioritise sustainability. This trend encompasses everything from using ecofriendly nappies and baby products to choosing sustainable clothing, toys and even educational resources. Additionally, eco-conscious parenting involves making greener choices in day-to-day life, such as minimising plastic usage, opting for secondhand items, and supporting brands that prioritise ethical production and environmental stewardship.
Eco-conscious parenting involves not just teaching kids to care about environmental issues but also implementing the eco-forward ideas they bring home, courtesy of their peers and teachers. The aim is to empower children in their efforts to “be the change” whether that’s by putting them in charge of the recycling, helping them eat sustainably or allowing them to host a clothes swap for friends.
TECH-SAVVY PARENTING
With the rapid advancement of technology, techsavvy parenting is expected to continue evolving through 2025. Parents are increasingly relying on apps and devices to monitor their children’s wellbeing, whether it’s through smart baby monitors, AI-powered educational tools, or healthtracking wearables.
Technology is playing an essential role in making parenting more efficient and informed, offering
parents data on their child’s sleep patterns, nutrition, or even emotional health. However, along with the benefits, tech-savvy parenting also requires parents to navigate the challenges of screen-time management and digital safety. Many parents are becoming more deliberate in teaching their children about responsible technology use, emphasising digital literacy and helping kids balance their onand off-line lives.
With this in mind, sharenting – posting the highs and lows of raising children online – is finally, definitely over. Growing concerns about AI-generated imagery, as well as facial recognition and the commercial use of personal data, mean that parents are becoming much more cautious about sharing content related to their children on social media. There’s also children’s digital footprint to consider: something sharenting creates, often long before the child can even understand what that means.
PERSONALISED EDUCATION
The education landscape is undergoing a transformation and, in 2025, personalised education options are expected to be more mainstream. Flexible schooling models, such as hybrid homeschooling, online learning platforms and micro-schools, are becoming increasingly popular among parents who want a more tailored approach to their children’s education. Parents are seeking out educational environments that cater to their child’s unique learning style, offering more individualised attention than traditional schools. This shift is partly driven by dissatisfaction with the one-size-fits-all approach of traditional schooling, as well as the increasing demand for digital skills in the modern economy.
In this new model, parents are taking a more active role in their children’s education: as with all the trends we’ve looked at for 2025, the main aim is to ensure kids grow up resilient and well-prepared for the future.
TEACHING RESPONSIBLE TECHNOLOGY-USE REMAINS A PRIORITY
Keto-Friendly
A Little Bit of Trivia! XMAS MOVIE QUIZ
How much do you know about Christmas on the silver screen?
BY Nicole Innocenti
1. I n which year was Home Alone released?
A. 19 83
B. 1986
C. 19 90
2. W ho creates Sally in The Nightmare Be fore Christmas ?
A. D r Frankenstein
B. D r Finkelstein
C. D r Finkelwho
3. W ho plays Meredith in The Family Stone?
A. S arah Jessica Parker
B. D ianne Keaton
C. R achel McAdams
4. W hat does Santa give Hero Boy in The Polar Express ?
A. A s ilver bell
B. A r eindeer
C. A s now globe
5. W ho plays Kris Kringle in Miracle on 3 4th Street ?
A. E dmund Gwenn
B. W illiam Frawley
C. Percy Helton
6. W ho takes Esther to the Christmas Eve B all in Meet Me in St Louis?
A. J ohn Truett
B. C olonel Darly
C. H er grandfather
7. W hat are the siblings’ names in The Holiday ?
A. G raham and Amanda
B. G raham and Iris
C. M iles and Amanda
8. W hich Christmas movie is the h ighest grossing?
A. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
B. A Christmas Carol
C. The Grinch
9. W hy does Fred get arrested in Fred Claus?
A. B reaking and entering
B. D runk driving
C. C harity fraud
10 W hat song does Frank and his crew sing a t the end of Scrooged ?
A. Put a Little Love in Your Heart
B. Last Christmas
C. The Little Drummer Boy
11. In Elf, what is Buddy’s job at the North Pole?
A. Chef
B. M edic for reindeers
C. Toy tester
12. W ho directed the Christmas rom-com Love Actually ?
A. H ugh Grant
B. R ichard Curtis
C. A ndrew Lincoln
13. W hich Bond movie is based on the C hristmas story?
A. No Time to Die
B. For Your Eyes Only
C. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service
14. In Serendipity, when do Sara and J onathan first meet?
A. C hristmas Eve
B. C hristmas Day
C. B oxing Day
15. W hich song has featured the most in Ch ristmas movies?
A. Jingle Bells
B. Silent Night
C. Deck the Halls
16. In Bad Santa , what does Thurman want for Christmas?
A. X box
B. P ink elephant
C. Toy car
17. Which book is A Christmas Story based on?
A. The Gift of the Magi
B. A Christmas Memory
C. In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cas h
18. In Edward Scissorhands , what decoration d oes Edward make at Christmas?
A. C hristmas tree
B. A ngel ice sculpture
C. R eindeer topiary
19. W hat is the angel’s name in It’s a Wonderful Life?
A. C larence Odbody
B. G eorge Bailey
C. M ary Hatch
20. Who sings the title song of White Christmas?
A. Bi ng Crosby
B. Perry Como
C. D oris Day
You can check your score at www.arounddb.com>20questions>xmas-movie-quiz.
Top Tips! HOLIDAY DECORATING
Check our festive forecast to unwrap the coolest trends for Christmas 2024
This year’s Christmas decor trends are as diverse as they come, drawing on everything from nature to retro glam. It’s time to invest in a pink Christmas tree (if you don’t already have one) and a couple of glitter balls. Other must-haves to refresh your festive decor include paper snowflakes, hessian ribbons, jewel-toned baubles and iridescent tree ornaments.
Now more than ever, you are free to lean into the unique with your Christmas decor – you don’t have to follow tradition. There’s a greater emphasis on personal preference: from taking on DIY projects to re-evaluating the colour wheel, everything is focused on what speaks specifically to you. Take a look.
COLOUR AND SPARKLE
While red and green might come to mind for Christmas, and blue and silver for Hanukkah,
your holiday decor doesn’t have to stick to those traditional colour palettes. You can get creative with almost any Pantone in the book and, this year, we can expect to see a lot of white, cream and silver.
The sparkling white Christmas look has taken a backseat in recent years, but for 2024, it’s back and shining brighter than ever. Decorate your living room with delicate paper snowflakes and whimsical polar pals, and introduce ornaments in silver, blue and even lilac to enhance the wintry palette. Flocked or all-white trees are the perfect centrepiece for this serene snowscape: dripping with crystal and glass, they catch every glimmer of the (all-white) fairy lights.
Alternatively, you can light up your home by embracing brilliant jewel tones. Think oversized baubles in ruby and emerald or, better, sapphire and amethyst. There’s something special about these rich colours for a time of year that’s filled with so much spirit. When you colour outside the lines, you also give your guests something to talk about.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock
RETRO GLAM
If you’re a Barbie fan, you’ll be pleased to know many of us are celebrating Pinkmas again this year, turning everything from trees to candles Margot Robbie-pink. Pinkmas is about going all out (pack in as many pink decorations as possible), and be sure to add in a glitter ball to cement the glam, retro look. Glitter balls are everywhere this year: hang them on the tree, from the ceiling and even as wreaths.
Looking for more retro glitter and sparkle? Iridescent tree ornaments are making a splash this year, and tinsel is back. Metallics are also bang on trend: you can embrace classic gold for a timeless glow, or set a wintry scene with silver. Trees decked out from top to bottom in silver and gold are showstoppers, and you can even opt for shiny, sculptural metallic trees.
Candyland retro is also big for 2024, with gingerbread, cupcakes, candy canes and macarons – all that sugary “goodness” – heading into our homes once again. The Candyland theme may be a bit kitsch but it’s also extremely versatile. Traditionalists plump for candy-cane stripe, gingham and gingerbread. Pinkmas people bring out their all-pink afternoon tea sets laden with scones and strawberry jam. True fans use invisible string to hang oversized candy gumdrops, cupcakes and ice cream cones not just from the tree but from the ceiling. Treat yourself to a Nutcracker statue.
NATURAL TOUCHES
If retro doesn’t speak to you, you can look to the natural world for inspiration this Christmas. There’s a focus on simple decorations, using natural materials and florals, that feel festive without overwhelming the living space. Consider layering in natural accents like branches, berries and pinecones. Try incorporating oranges, apples and pomegranates: the colours of the fruit look well against the Christmas greenery adding a brightness that feels perfect for the holidays.
Likewise, the woodland theme never goes out of style. Earthy tones of brown, rust, terracotta and green create a rich backdrop for collections of forest creatures, both mythical and real. Reindeer, hedgehogs, owls, squirrels and foxes look festive whether hung from the tree, or nestled at its base. If you choose to add a few woodland elves, be sure to prepare some mushroom homes for them.
Eco-friendly materials echo the woodland theme with designs in felt, wood and cork particularly popular, alongside ornate painted glass. In fact,
IF YOU’RE A BARBIE FAN, YOU’LL BE PLEASED TO KNOW MANY OF US ARE CELEBRATING PINKMAS AGAIN THIS YEAR
MAKE EVERYTHING MARGOT ROBBIE-PINK
our effort to reduce Christmas plastic has brought a variety of natural materials to the fore. Think ornaments in papier-mâché, felt and straw; rattan tree collars and LED-lit baubles; hessian ribbon and bows; and wood-beaded garlands.
DIY NOSTALGIA
In line with eco considerations, the call for handmade Christmas decorations is particularly strong this year. There are a lot of DIY holiday displays on social media, with upcycling, home crafting and repurposing keeping costs and our environmental footprint low. Making your own garlands, ornaments and even candles brings so much joy to the holiday season, and allows you to spend time with loved ones. Plus, you’ll likely use these pieces for years to come.
The holidays have always been an excuse to bring back the memories and styles of yesteryear and now, more than ever, there’s a desire to embrace family heirlooms and unique vintage pieces. It’s all about nostalgia: making the holidays more personal by incorporating pieces that mean something to us, or have been handed down to us. Using well-loved or vintage-look ornaments, and mixing old with new, can create a soulful, layered effect.
Done well, the nostalgic trend sees the cosy, homespun charm of the past reimagined with modern elegance. It’s our childhood Christmas seen through rose-tinted spectacles; it’s the quintessential Christmas à la Nancy Meyers’ set creations in The Holiday . Cherry-red and teal accents style up a serene backdrop of pale green, soft brown and white. Handcrafted ornaments, knitted stockings and rustic wreaths emphasise authenticity over perfection. Forget stuffy, frilly, or overly fluffed – this is lived-in comfort with a fresh, airy twist.
TROPICAL WONDERLAND
Last but not least, why does it have to be a winter wonderland? And who says Christmas trees have to be fir? You can expect a surge in alternative festive centrepieces this year, with people shedding the conventional tree and decorating exotic pot plants for the holidays.
The tropical festive trend is rooted in a rich green palette that moves from deep juniper right through to lime. You can go all-in green, or add a splash of contrast with pink, purple and gold. It’s about creating a vibrant look that feels like a holiday in
paradise. But why stop there? Bring on the whimsy with butterflies, hummingbirds and lizards. Exotic animals, like flamingos and leopards, are making their festive debut this year, replacing the usual robins and polar bears.
And don’t forget the jewel-bright cocktails and fiesta flowers to go with. Follow this playful, upbeat trend to transform your home into a tropical Christmas wonderland – and prove that the holidays can be anything but traditional.
THINK CANDYLAND RETRO
LOOK TO NATURE FOR INSPIRATION
Vacation Time!HOKKAIDO
More than a ski trip
BY Kayli Liebenberg
THE CHARMING PORT CITY of Otaru is known for its beautifully preserved historic buildings –and resident artisans. This is the place to pick up glassware, antiques, music boxes and kimonos. The Otaru Canal is particularly picturesque, lined with old warehouses that have been converted into museums, shops and restaurants.
JUST 800 KILOMETRES OFF
RUSSIA’S southeastern coast, Hokkaido is Japan’s second largest island. Fly into Sapporo, the capital, and wrap up warm as temperatures can drop to -6°C. There’s plenty to see and do before you hit the slopes – take a stroll through Oduri Park, and tour Sapporo Beer Museum to sample some local brews.
NATURE LOVERS MAKE A BEELINE
for Shiretoko National Park: the 380-square-kilometre UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven for wildlife, including brown bears, deer, foxes and orcas. You can sign up for a boat tour to enjoy the dramatic coastline or explore the remote wilderness on foot, walking on drift ice and snowshoeing through forests.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock
NOBORIBETSU-ONSEN IS
HOME to Hokkaido’s most famous hot springs: choose from a selection of baths with different mineral compositions, each providing unique health benefits. The town itself is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including Hell Valley (Jigokudani) , where you can see volcanic activity up close.
HOKKAIDO HOSTS MANY
WINTER FESTIVALS and two of the best are held in February. At Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, you can explore ice caves, enjoy ice slides and participate in traditional winter sports, like ice fishing and dog sledding. At Sapporo Snow Festival, artisans gather at the city’s parks to create intricate ice and snow sculptures.
OF ALL HOKKAIDO’S SKI RESORTS , Niseko is the most famous: the japow (powder) is legendary thanks not only to its abundance but also its quality – low water content means the slopes are almost entirely ice free. The Hokkaido ski season runs from November to early May, and Niseko delivers with a world-class mix of challenging runs and beginner-friendly slopes.
SNOWMOBILE RIDING IS
something you really must experience, as is the unrivalled romance of reindeer sledding. With the kids in mind, there’s also igloo-making at Niseko Outdoor Centre and snow tubing at Hanazano Tube Park. Many of Hokkaido’s ski resorts and guesthouses provide sleds free for guests’ use.
Lantau Wordsearch ! XMAS SHOPPING
GILLIAN
FELIX
E L L O M M
E E O J D G C G Y L Y K O K F P S A P L E P
R R O M F H S F V K J T I L T L T N W F T L
C T D L C N Y V C X N W
Christmas Classics
These simple treats are good enough for Santa himself, and they’re sure to get the party started
BY Nicole Innocenti
CRANBERRY MARTINI
Serves 2
1 lemon wedge
4tbsp vodka
4tbsp cranberry juice
2tbsp Cointreau
2tbsp lemon juice
2tsp sugar syrup
To frost the two martini glasses, smooth an even layer of sugar on a plate and cut a notch in a lemon wedge. Run the lemon wedge around the rim of the glass and then tilt the glass and roll its outer rim in the sugar. The goal here is to get the sugar on the outside of the glass only so none of it drops into the drink itself.
Place the vodka, cranberry juice, Cointreau, lemon juice and sugar syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake for 15 seconds until cold. Divide the drink into two frosted martini glasses. Garnish with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary to serve.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock
GINGERBREAD MEN
Makes 12
40g unsalted butter
100g dark muscovado sugar
3tbsp golden syrup
350g plain flour
1tsp bicarbonate of soda
2tsp ground ginger
1tsp ground cinnamon
2 balls stem ginger, chopped
Heat the oven to 200˚C. Line two baking sheets with baking parchment. Melt the butter and sugar in a pan and add the golden syrup. Mix the flour, bicarbonate of soda, ground ginger, cinnamon and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir in the butter mix and stem ginger to make a stiff-ish dough.
Wait until cool enough to handle, then roll out the dough to about 5mm thick. Stamp out your gingerbread men, re-rolling and pressing the trimmings back together and rolling again. Lift onto baking sheets. Bake for 12 minutes until golden. Cool for 20 minutes, then decorate with piped icing.
WANT TO REACH AN ENGAGED AUDIENCE OF AFFLUENT RESIDENTS AND FAMILIES IN LANTAU?
2025
For 20+ years the Bay Media team has been publishing the original community magazine in Discovery Bay. Around DB is the most trusted source of content for DB residents.
From our humble origins we have grown into another two publications, Life on Lantau and Best of Lantau , and a design studio. We have a very active Facebook presence, over 40,000+ visitors to our website every month and provide tailor-made marketing campaigns to reach our unique readership. We are currently offering special advertising packages (both print and digital) 2025.
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Tailored Pest Control Solutions for Rodent, Cockroaches, Fleas, Mosquitoes, Termites, Ants, Ticks etc…
For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or Baguio 6776 8400
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Packing, Moving & Storage Services. Fixed price quote upon onsite survey or choose from the rates below:
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Serves Lantau, DB, Tung Chung and the rest of HK.
LOCAL NUMBERS TUNG CHUNG
EMERGENCY SERVICES 999
Tung Chung Ambulance Depot 2988 8282
Tung Chung Fire Station 2988 1898
Tung Chung Police Station 3661 1999
HOME & REPAIRS
Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths 2109 2330
Mr Chan 24-Hour Handyman 9343 3718
Papabo 5541 1502
Shun Yu Engineering 2988 1488
So Nice Technologies 6206 3497
HOTELS
Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott 3969 1888
Novotel Citygate Hong Kong 3602 8888
Regal Airport Hotel 2286 8888
Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0000
The Silveri Hong Kong - MGallery 3602 8989
LEARNING CENTRES
Discovery Mind International Play Centre 2987 8070
Discovery Mind Primary School 2915 0666
Greenfield International Kindergarten 2162 5538
Sun Island Education Foundation 2420 1068
Tung Chung Catholic School 2121 0884
YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College 2988 8123
MEDICAL
Bayside Dental 2185 6550
Essential Health Family Clinic 2109 9396
Human Health Medical Centre 2109 2288
North Lantau Hospital 3467 7000
Quality Health Dental 2403 6613
Quality Health Care Medical 2403 6623
REMOVALS & RELOCATION
Akash Moving 2421 8088
Crown Relocations 2636 8399
FTC Relocations 2814 1658
ReloSmart 2561 3030
Rocket Movers 5134 0044
SwiftRelo 2363 4008
RESIDENTIAL SERVICES
Caribbean Coast Clubhouse 2109 9277
Caribbean Coast Management Office 2109 9288
Coastal Skyline Clubhouse 2179 6678
Coastal Skyline Management Office 2179 6621
Seaview Crescent Clubhouse 3473 8700
Seaview Crescent Management Office 3473 8833
Tung Chung Crescent Clubhouse 2403 6770
Tung Chung Crescent Management Office 2109 1222
RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY
3 Italiani 5182 7646
A Tavola Bar & Grill 2321 5500
Andante, Novotel Citygate 3602 8828
Basic Bistro 2305 5508
Cabana Breeze 2777 8982
Café Aficionado 2286 6238
Café Lantau, Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0021
Handi Indian Resturant 2988 8674
Jasmine Tung Chung 2162 8018
La Rosabelle Bar & Grill 2881 8788
La Vista 2368 6866
Lobby Lounge, Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0023
Maison Du Mezze 2330 0131
Man Mano Italian Restaurant 3500 5885 Mint & Basil 2762 8077 Moon Lok Chiu Chow 2116 8149
My Thai 2907 6918
Nha Trang Vietnamese Cuisine 2234 9199
PizzaExpress 2297 3588
Regala Café & Dessert Bar, Regal Airport Hotel 2286 6618 Rouge, Regal Airport Hotel 2286 6868
Skycity Bistro, SkyCity Marriott 3969 2500
SOUTH LANTAU
Koon
Ashville
DISCOVERY BAY
Harvey Law Group International law firm offering a wide range of commercial & personal legal services. Meeting facilities available in DB. Contact 24168618, dboffice@harveylawcorporation.com,
Elevate
Discovery Montessori School
A reputable & well-known international school for authentic Montessori bilingual (English & Chinese) education for children aged 1 to 12 years. Beautiful campus & highly qualified teachers. Contact 2987 1201, enquiry@dms.edu.hk, www.dms.edu.hk
EpicLand
Billed as Hong Kong’s tallest indoor entertainment centre, EpicLand is home to the city's first ‘air trek’, complete with eight sky-high obstacles, trampolines, slides and more. Contact 2441 0098, reception@epiclandhk.com, www.epiclandhk.com
La Petite Enfance Kindergarten
0813
Mandarin for Munchkins 2480 3909
Mathemagic (home tutoring) 9135 4724
Rigolo comme la vie 5495 8810
SKH Wei Lun Primary School 2987 8608
Located in DB Plaza Extension, the THE RINK Italian Kitchen offers guests a unique gastronomical experience of authentic Italian flavours. To reserve a table, call 3709 6451.
The Rink Italian Kitchen
DISCOVERY BAY
Pasha
Peony
Pho
Sushi
at
Club Siena & DB Plaza. Five professional instructors, teaching six days a week. Contact 2987 1571/ 9159 0663, info@islanddance.com.hk, www.islanddance.com.hk
Tekkerz Football programmes for boys & girls for age groups U5 up to U14. Contact 9770 4548, train@tekkerzfootball.com, www.prosportsasia.com
THE DOOMSDAY CLOCK IS TICKING
Peter Sherwood receives a not very merry Christmas call
Another call from my uncle Bill in outback Australia. I greeted him with merry Christmas. “Don’t merry Christmas me, mate. I’ve had a bad day,” was his reply. I mistakenly followed up with ‘tis the season to be jolly. Then he let rip:
This bloke down the pub says he’s a climate scientist. Like a weatherman on TV, I said. “No, that’s a meteorologist, one of many climate disciplines.” Before I could ask what a discipline is, he started on a rant. “The climate is changing fast and it’s getting hotter.” Well, I said, it’s always been hotter here, hotter than Brisbane anyway. “The cause is anthropogenic.” Anthrowhat? “Humans burning fossil fuels, oil and coal, trapping heat in the atmosphere.” So what? Heat rises. I learned that at school. “CO2 stays stuck and heats the land and oceans.”
If that wasn’t silly enough, he started on about animals farting! “They produce vast amounts of methane which is 28 times worse than CO2.”
You’re kidding, right? “Sheep and cattle, making hundreds of thousands of tons of the stuff. Australia alone has 25 million cattle and 30 million sheep.” What had this idiot been drinking? “The warming of the planet is a dangerous exponential cycle.” What, say? “It means the hotter it gets, the hotter it gets. Glaciers are melting, causing sea levels to rise.”
I played along to humour him. “Worse, the permafrost is under threat of melting.” OK, so what’s a bit of melted frost? “Hey, 18 million square kilometres, two and a half times the size
of Australia. Been frozen for 700,000 years. Do you know what’s under that?” Gold was the wrong answer. Then he got angry. “Methane! Trillions of tons of it!” Come on mate, you just told me it comes from farting sheep. He was getting impatient.
But Australia is clean, right? “Wrong. We’re delusional. We flog billions of tons of filthy coal to China and India, and duh! Air has no international borders; the pollution circulates.” He had a point, at least until his next crackpot statement. “Expect it to get wetter and drier.” This bloke’s a scientist?! Geez, I left school age 12 and even I know it can’t be wet and dry at the same time.
The clown persisted. “Huge atmospheric rivers are forming, dumping more rain in one place than it sees in many years.” Rivers in the bloody air. I should have stayed home. “It’s estimated one of these monsters could be 27 times bigger than Mrs Sippy.” Who the hell is that?! “Expect more floods and droughts.” There he goes again, wet and dry together.
“It will be extreme.” I reminded him we hadn’t seen rain here for a decade and that’s pretty extreme. He was getting irritated with me making him wrong all the time. Trying to cool him down, I asked if he were an optimist or a pessimist. “An optimist, but only because I’d otherwise be out of a job. Between you and me, I agree with the late, great theoretical physicist, Stephen Hawking: ‘We will destroy ourselves through greed and ignorance.’” I told him I hope it’s not tonight. I’ve got a leg of farting Xmas lamb in the oven.
Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 20+ years. The former head of an international public relations firm, he is the author of 15 books and has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.
PHOTO COURTESY OF Adobe Stock
Club Siena, Discovery Bay
6th Jan – 15th Mar 2025
愉景灣海澄湖畔會所 2025年1月6日至3月15日
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We wish you a happy and healthy 2025! Seasons Greetings from all of us at Bay Media!
