Around DB February 2024

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D I S COV ERY B AY ' S O R I G I N A L CO M M U N I T Y M AGA Z I N E - P U B L I S H ED S I N C E 2 0 0 2

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Valentine’s Day fun from Tai Pak Wan to Pui O

ULTRAMARATHON MAN On the trails with DBIS teacher Neil O’Maonaigh-Lennon

Happy

CNY!

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE YEAR OF THE WOOD DRAGON

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FEb R uA RY 2 0 24 | A R O U N D D B.CO M

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FEATURES 20 PROFILE Meet Neil O’Maonaigh-Lennon, TransLantauTM 140 finisher and DBIS’ Head of Year 9

24 COMMUNITY Kung Hei Fat Choi! Good things to expect from the Year of the Wood Dragon

34 PARENTING Use the buzz surrounding Valentine’s Day to share the love with the whole family

40 INSIDER

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How to deck-out a balcony so you can enjoy quality time outdoors all year round AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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20 QUESTIONS Valentine’s Day Quiz

06 DB NEWS

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ESCAPES Nice La Belle

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RECIPES Food for lovers

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OUT THERE Peter Sherwood talks back

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D I S COV ERY B AY ' S O R I G I N A L CO M M U N I T Y M AGA Z I N E - P U B L I S H ED S I N C E 2 0 0 2

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Valentine’s Day fun from Tai Pak Wan to Pui O

ULTRAMARATHON MAN On the trails with DBIS teacher Neil O’Maonaigh-Lennon

Happy

CNY!

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE YEAR OF THE WOOD DRAGON

|

PA R E N T I N G

FEb R uA RY 2 0 24 | A R O U N D D B.CO M

24 O N T H E C OVE R Happy Wood Dragon Year, 2024

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HAPPY VAL-Y SAY IT WITH STRAWBERRIES

Discovery Bay International School wishes students and their families health, wealth and prosperity in the Year of the Dragon!

We look forward to empowering each and every one of our students to fulfil their potential in 2024. admissions@dbis.edu.hk

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CHINESE PAPER ART WORKSHOP Paperization, the paper-based arts-andcrafts group that provides paper cutting courses, is hosting a Lunar New Year Chinese Paper Art Workshop on February 4 at DB Plaza (booth no. 1 of the DB Sunday Market). Attend one of three hourlong sessions from 11am to 4pm to create dragon-themed artwork for luck, wisdom and power. To find out more and enrol, visit Facebook @DynamicDB.

Be sure to pick up a CNY Gift Box and Pot of Fortune from Peony this month. The CNY Gift Box, priced at HK$208, includes a radish cake and coconut milk cake, and is available through February 9. The Pot of Fortune, priced at HK$1,188 for four people, HK$1,988 for eight, needs to be ordered two days in advance and is available through February 28. To find out more and place an order, call 2215 0833.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF Peony.]

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CELEBRATE CNY AND VALENTINE’S AT REGAL AIRPORT HOTEL

Flat C & D, 9/F Sing Teck Factory Bldg, 44 Wong Chuk Hang Rd, Hong Kong

Regal Airport Hotel is pulling out all the stops this February with special set menus designed to help us celebrate both CNY and Valentine’s Day. The Chinese Reunion Set Menu at Rouge is available for both lunch and dinner, for groups of four, six and 12, with prices starting at HK$2,088 for four. Running through February 9, it presents a perfect way for families and groups of friends to ring in the Year of the Dragon. To make a reservation, call 2286 6868.

B AY M EDI A GRO UP

Flat 6E Elegance Court, Hillgrove Village, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island

D I S CL AIME R

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. © BAY MEDIA GROUP 2024

POTS OF FORTUNE AT PEONY

Meanwhile from February 11 to 24, a Valentine’s Week Set Dinner Menu is on offer at China Coast Bar + Grill – the perfect way to celebrate the most romantic day of the year with a loved one. Priced at HK$1,314 for two, the sumptuous, four-course feast includes two complimentary glasses of sparkling white wine. To enjoy a special discount – HK$988 for two – on a Valentine’s Week Set Dinner, mention Around DB when making a reservation. Call 2286 6238.

Looking for something a little different? Lobster X International Curry Dinner Buffet is available throughout February at Regal Airport Hotel’s Café Aficionado. The buffet is served from 6pm to 9.30pm, and priced at HK$638 per adult Monday to Thursday (HK$388 per child/ senior), and HK$688 per adult on weekends and public holidays (HK$418 per child/ senior). To enjoy a special buy-one-get-onefree offer, mention Around DB when making a reservation. Call 2286 6238.

To find out more, visit www.regalhotel.com/en/regal-airport-hotel/Promotions. [PHOTOS COURTESY OF Regal Airport Hotel.]

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DB NEWS

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ISLAND DANCE AT CNY NIGHT PARADE

Island Dance’s elite dancers are performing at the Chinese New Year Night Parade in Tsim Sha Tsui on February 10.

They are dancing with Ocean Park’s troupe of professional dancers, and you can catch them live both on the streets and TVB. To find out more, visit islanddance.com.hk.

[PHOTOS COURTESY OF Island Dance.]

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IN FEBRUARY!

BRUNCH RHAPSODY AT THE SILVERI

You can experience the best of The Silveri Hong KongMGaller y’s bistro-st yled restaurant, The Enclave and chic cock tail bar, The Pavilion, during cross-venue, semi-buf fet brunch ever y Saturday and Sunday, 12pm to 3pm. Prices star t at HK$278 with an enticing range of star ters, mains and desser ts, plus interac tive live stations and unlimited cock tails. Extravagant add-ons include a Seafood Plat ter at HK$288 for t wo, and free-flow house red, white or prosecco at HK$149 per person. To book a table, call 3602 8918 or head to book.bistrochat.com/theenclave. [PHOTO COURTESY OF The Silveri Hong Kong-MGaller y.]

OWS’ SPRING COURSES

One World Spirit Association is providing a series of spring courses through February to help ring in Chinese New Year. There’s a Putonghua Course focused on conversational skills, a Chinese Calligraphy Class, where you can learn the basic brushstrokes and make your own CNY Couplets, and a Classical and Modern Chinese Dance Course, which comes with performance opportunities. To find out more and enrol, WhatsApp 6219 3817, or email admin1@1worldspirit.org. [PHOTO COURTESY OF OWS.]

LION DANCE PARTIES There are two lion dance parties to attend on February 11, the second day of the Lunar New Year: the first at DBRC from 11.30am to 12.30pm, and the second at Club Siena from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. You can expect traditional dot-the-lion-eyes and catch-thelettuce ceremonies, followed by lion dancing. Attendees are invited to dress in their best red and gold. To find out more, call 2987 7381.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY FEBRUARY 3 | GATHER AT THE CNY PLANT MARKET in DB Community Green Square from 2pm to 4pm. Visit Facebook @DynamicDB. FEBRUARY 4 | SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY CNY MARKET in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm. Visit www.handmadehongkong.com.

FEBRUARY 25 | JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP! Meet at the gate to DB/ Nim Shue Wan at 2.10pm. Email dana@plasticfreeseas.org to RSVP.

THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY | DONATE PRELOVED FURNITURE to people in need through DB Mothers & Friends. To arrange for pick-up, visit Facebook @dbmf.collection.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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LAST FEW PLACES IN NEW FS-1 CLASS AT DBIS

Discovery Bay International School’s new Rainforest FS-1 class launched on February 1 at its Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) campus. The class offers a unique opportunity for children who have already turned three to join the DBIS community part way through the academic year and enjoy the school’s superb facilities for young learners. To apply for a place, go to dbis.hk/admissions. To find out more about DBIS EYFS, scan the QR code or go to www.dbis.edu.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF DBIS.]

IRISH FESTIVAL 2024

Irish Festival 2024, being held from March 16 to 17 at the Shun Tak Centre, Sheung Wan, takes you on a celebration of all things Celtic – from its vibrant music and captivating dance to its rich culture and traditions.

Whether you're a die-hard fan of St Patrick’s Day or simply looking to explore Irish culture, this family-friendly, t wo-day festival is not to be missed. To find out more and book tickets, visit w w w.irishfestival.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Pyjama Events.]

ROMANTIC RENDEZVOUS IN DB There’s plenty on offer for DB lovers and their Valentines on February 14 starting with Busking by the Sea at DB Ferry Pier from 6pm to 6.45pm and at Tai Pak Beach from 7.45pm to 8.45pm. You can also take the opportunity to take selfies and celebrate your love at the beach from 6pm to 11pm when it will be strewn with candle lights laid out in the shape of giant hearts. [PHOTO BY Richard Gordon www.richardgordonphotography.com.]

CNY JUNGLE SCHOOL

Brought to you by Tung Chung family favourite, Jaimie Sharp Events from February 12 to 16, 9am to 12pm at DB North Plaza beach, CNY Jungle School is led

by DB resident Steven Allen, a qualified school teacher with over 20 years’ experience. The camp is designed for children aged five to 11 years with the aim to foster a love for nature and exploration and teach valuable life skills. Parents are welcome to join in. To find out more and enrol, scan the QR code or call 9095 7250. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Jaimie Sharp Events.]

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VALENTINE’S DAY RACE

The Trail Hub’s annual Valentine’s Day Race is scheduled for February 4 this year.

Starting and finishing at Treasure Island on Pui O Beach, you can choose to run either the 15-kilometre Tough Love or the 9-kilometre Easy Love, both open to teams of two. All partners must finish the course together. To find out more and sign up to race, visit www.thetrailhub.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF The Trail Hub.]

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BRIGHT FUTURE

A key part of the community since 1996, Discovery Mind Kindergarten is enjoying a fresh start at its new campus in DB North Plaza PHOTOS COURTESY OF DMK & by Kayli Liebenburg

Discovery Mind has a long history in Lantau: the first Discovery Bay kindergarten opened at C o a s t l i n e V i l l a i n 1 9 9 6 , f o l l o w e d b y t w o Tu n g Chung schools – a kindergarten in 2009 and a primary in 2012. Now, Priya Kanthan, Head of Discovery Mind and Kabeeta Gurung, Head of Discovery Mind Kindergarten are delighted to announce the grand opening of Discovery Mind Kindergarten in DB North Plaza.

“It is with great pleasure and excitement that we come together to mark the beginning of a new chapter in our jour ney,” Priya opens. “We are inviting all our DB students and parents, as well as prospective parents, to join us at the grand opening on February 24. It will be a great opportunity to learn more about our school’s offerings, facilities and educational approach. Kabeeta and I look forward to seeing everyone there.”

Describing the new campus as fresh, new and inspiring, Kabeeta says that the feedback from students and parents has been amazing. “After 10

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

27 years at Coastline, we are excited about the new campus with its better outdoor play facilities, bigger and brighter classrooms and magnificent sea views,” she says. “What’s more, the new DB Plaza campus is centrally located: it’s easier for families to access and it’s close to local facilities, such as the community hall and parks, that we use for sports and school concerts.”

WHAT DISCOVERY MIND DOES BEST T h e s c h o o l m a y h a v e re l o c a t e d b u t P r i y a a n d Kabeeta confirm that the Discovery Mind (DM) mission and values remain unchanged. “Our core v a l u e s o f re s p e c t , re s p o n s i b i l i t y a n d re s i l i e n c e underpin everything we do,” Priya says. “Our commitment to providing high-quality education that meets international standards in a multicultural setting remains unwavering.”

DM caters to over 40 different nationalities from five continents around the world. “We pride ourselves in developing happy students who will

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become lifelong learners with a global mindset,” Priya says. “DM sets out to provide a safe and nurturing environment for students to grow and learn together.”

“Our dedicated teachers strive to meet the needs of every student through personalised approaches to teaching and learning.”

Discovery Mind Kindergarten (DMK) follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework focusing on a child-centred approach. At DMK, this framework is merged to create a bilingual setting with English and Mandarin. “ M e e t i n g t h e n e e d s o f e v e r y s t u d e n t re q u i re s a h o l i s t i c a p p ro a c h t o e d u c a t i o n t h a t e x t e n d s well beyond academics,” Kabeeta explains.

“We place a strong emphasis on holistic development, creative expression, physical skills, communication, and emotional and social growth.

By focusing on these areas, we support children in building a strong foundation for future learning and development.”

Most importantly, DM embraces an open-door p o l i c y, f o s t e r i n g c l o s e c o n t a c t a n d b u i l d i n g i n d i v i d u a l r e l a t i o n s h i p s w i t h e a c h f a m i l y.

“Communicating with parents is a key part of what we do best,” Kabeeta says. “Ongoing, transparent and personalised communication plays a pivotal role in developing strong relationships with families and the larger community.” “ We b e l i e v e i n f o s t e r i n g s t ro n g c o l l a b o r a t i o n among all stakeholders, creating a lifelong and invaluable partnership between DM and its community,” Priya concludes.

The grand opening of Discovery Mind Kindergarten is being held on February 24 at 1/F, Shop 102, 92 Siena Avenue, DB North Plaza. You can scan the QR code to enrol.

To find out more, call 2987 8088, email dmk@discoverymind.edu.hk or visit www.discoverymind.edu.hk.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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WISH LIST

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W SUMMIT PUMORI GTX PRO JACKET, THE NORTH FACE, HK$7,990, WWW.THENORTHFACE.COM.HK

! y r a u 10 r b Fe

TIANLONG DRAGON SCULPTURE, LALIQUE, HK$6,577, FR.LALIQUE.COM

BASILE CANDLE HOLDER, DIPTYQUE, HK$1,600, WWW.DIPTYQUEPARIS.COM

START THE LUNAR NEW YEAR STRONG Must-have treasures worthy of 2024’s mighty Dragon

NAGA 14K GOLD DIAMOND PAVE MINI CHAIN NECKLACE, JOHN HARDY, HK$43,760, WWW.JOHNHARDY.COM

DOUBLE HAPPINESS DRAGON SILK BANDANA, GOD, HK$398, WWW.GOD.COM.HK

14K GOLD SIGNET RING WITH TIGER EYE, JOHN HARDY, HK$27,460, WWW.JOHNHARDY.COM

JACKY TSAI DRAGON EMBROIDERY MEN’S POLO, SHANGHAI TANG, HK$1,580, WWW.SHANGHAITANG.COM

RED DRAGON PATTERN BONE CHINA PLATES, SHANGHAI TANG, HK$1,580, WWW.SHANGHAITANG.COM

ENTER THE DRAGON OVERSIZED T-SHIRT, GOD, HK$348, WWW.GOD.COM.HK 12

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

MAGIC LAMP BUBBLE BOMB, LUSH, HK$150, WWW.LUSH.COM

! y r Februa 14

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CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE!

Gift ideas for your favourite people on Valentine’s Day VALENTINE'S DAY LIMITED EDITION BAIES & ROSES DUO, DIPTYQUE, HK$1,200, WWW.DIPTYQUEPARIS.COM

18KWG ROSE-CUT DIAMOND RING, US SIZE 6, ZAHA ET CETERA, HK$25,850, WWW.ZAHAETCETERA.COM

COATES & SEELY BRUT RESERVE NV, WATSON'S WINE, HK$420, WWW.WATSONSWINE.COM WOMEN’S CARDIGAN VITOW, AMERICAN VINTAGE, HK$2,375, WWW.AMERICANVINTAGE-STORE.COM

CHINESE KNOT TASSEL CLUTCH, SHANGHAI TANG, HK$3,680, WWW.SHANGHAITANG.COM

GREETING CARD, BOOKAZINE, HK$35, WWW.BOOKAZINE.COM.HK COM

BEOLAB 8, BANG & OLUFSEN, HK$42,896, WWW.BANG-OLUFSEN.COM

MEN’S COAT RANOW, AMERICAN VINTAGE, HK$2,382, WWW.AMERICANVINTAGE-STORE.COM

FLOWER BOMBSHELL BATH BOMB, LUSH, HK$210, WWW.LUSH.COM

CELINE CATY GLASSES, VESTIAIRE COLLECTIVE, HK$2,915, WWW.VESTIAIRECOLLECTIVE.COM AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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C H O O S I N G A F O R E V E R S TO N E With Valentine’s Day coming up, DB-based Rahila Refaaq, Founder of Zaha et Cetera, gives the lowdown on choosing an engagement ring PHOTOS COURTESY OF Zaha et Cetera

DB’s trusted jeweller since 2012, Zaha et Cetera specialises in authenticated and ethically sourced custom-made jewellery, restorations and valuations.

Founder Rahila Refaaq, a second-generation jeweller, studied at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), qualifying as a Graduate Gemologist and Accredited Jewellery Professional in 2003. She worked for eight years as Senior Gemologist at the International Gemological Institute (IGI) in Hong Kong testing stones for major auction houses and private jewellers, and subsequently as an IGI HK Consultant specialising in diamonds, coloured stones and ID jewellery. Needless to say, she’s the person to advise lovebirds looking to put a ring on it.

“Ultimately, the most important recommendation is to choose a ring that symbolises your love and commitment, while aligning with the unique tastes and preferences of your future spouse,” Rahila opens. “Whether it’s a classic solitaire or a more contemporary design, the significance of the ring lies in the sentiment and thought behind it.”

It would seem then that simply focusing on bling – buying the biggest solitaire budget allows – won’t suffice. “While the size of the stone can be a significant factor, it’s essential to consider the quality of the stone. A smaller, high-quality diamond or gemstone can be just as stunning and impactful as a larger stone of lesser quality. It’s important to find the right balance between size and quality within your budget, and to be mindful of the 4Cs (cut, colour, clarity and carat).

However, if they have a more distinct style, unique settings or alternative gemstones could be more appropriate. And Rahila is all about practicality: “You need to take into account your future spouse’s lifestyle and daily activities. If they have an active lifestyle or work with their hands, a lower-profile setting may be more practical and comfortable. In this instance, you can explore halo, three-stone, vintage-inspired and pave settings.”

In addition to custom-making bespoke engagement rings, Zaha et Cetera has a collection of fixed design templates which clients can choose from, and can also create heirloom rings, reinventing stones and settings that have been passed down through generations. Again, Rahila advises that personalisation is all important: “W ith any engagement ring, you can consider adding personal touches, such as custom engravings or incorporating a stone that holds sentimental value.”

While diamonds continue to be the most popular choice for engagement rings, Rahila is seeing an increasing interest in alternative gemstones, such as sapphire, emerald, topaz and morganite.

“These gemstones offer unique colours, symbolism and affordability, appealing to individuals looking to personalise their ring selection or to deviate from the traditional diamond-centric approach.”

Remember, this isn’t a bling ring; it’s a forever ring.

Focus on the 4Cs.

“Round-brilliant cut is the most popular choice for engagement rings; its 58 facets are designed to maximise the diamond’s sparkle and brilliance.

But there are other cuts to consider, for instance oval, princess, pear, cushion, marquise and emerald.

Each offers a unique combination of brilliance, fire and personality. Whether opting for a classic roundbrilliant cut or a more distinctive pear cut, there are a variety of options to suit individual taste and create a truly special engagement ring.”

When selecting a design, Rahila points out that it’s helpful to consider the type of jewellery your future spouse typically wears. If they prefer classic and timeless pieces, a solitaire can be a great choice.

To find out more and arrange for a consultation, WhatsApp 9656 0414, email info@zahaetcetera.com or visit www.zahaetcetera.com. You can see more from Zaha et Cetera on Instagram: www.instagram.com/zahaetc and Facebook: www.facebook.com/zahaetcetera, www.facebook.com/ZahaetcDB. 14

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C E L E B R AT E C H I N E S E N E W Y E A R A N D V A L E N T I N E ’ S D AY AT R E G A L A I R P O R T H O T E L !

CHINESE REUNION SE T MENU

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To celebrate the Year of the Dragon, Rouge has designed a plethora of ravishing yet heart-warming menus that are perfect for group as well as family gatherings. Call 2286 6868 for reservation.

Scan for more details

LOBSTER X INTERNATIONAL CURRY DINNER BUFFE T Get ready for a one-of-a-kind journey at Café Aficionado, centred around tantalising lobster and curry. Enjoy a Buy 1 Get 1 Free by mentioning “AroundDB” during reservation!

Call 2286 6238 for reservation.

VALENTINE’S WEEK SE T DINNER MENU

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Plan your perfect Valentine’s Day at China Coast Bar + Grill.

Menu available from 11-24 February 2024, enjoy a Special Price for 2 at $988 (Original price $1,314+) by mentioning “AroundDB” during reservation! Call 2286 6898 for reservation.

REGAL REGAL AIRPORT A SKYCIT HOTEL Y HOTEL 9 Che 8 A ong ir p or Tatt ERo x pad o ,BHong oule var Kong d , Hong InterKong nat ional Inter A nat ir p or ional t , Chek A ir pLor apt , Kok Chek , Hong L ap Kok Kong , Hong Kong inf o@air inf o@sky p or t c.riegalho t y.r egaltel a -ho .com tel s .com(852) 2(852) 28 6 8355 8 8 86 328 8

! t u o b A Out &

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WHAT YOU'VE BEEN UP TO! CLEANING DB BEACHES

On January 13, Plastic Free Seas (PFS) organised a beach clean-up at Nim Shue Wan and Cheung Sha Lan. PSF volunteers clean DB beaches once a month, with individuals and families all welcome. Participants are urged to wear closed-toe shoes and a hat, and bring sunscreen, bug spray and water in a reuseable bottle. PSF provides garbage bags and gloves. [PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com.]

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AT JOYOUS CHRISTMAS ON ICE

At Joyous Christmas on Ice at DB Ice Rink on December 16 and 17, coaches and students of DB Ice Skating School had the opportunity to take the spotlight and showcase their skills. [PHOTOS COURTESY OF DB Ice Rink.}

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

with Dionina De Guzman

93176793 ZUMBADIONINA

PROFILE

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! r e tt a M r e v O d in M ULTRAMARATHON MAN

Discovery Bay International School psychology and science teacher, Neil O’Maonaigh-Lennon reflects on perhaps his biggest challenge to date: the TransLantau TM 140 by UTMB®. Claire Severn reports

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PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com

s trail runs go, they don’t come much tougher than the TransLantauTM 140 by UTMB ®. Dubbed the “ultra beast,” the race sees par ticipants traverse the peaks and troughs of Lantau’s countr y parks, covering a distance of 140km in less than 40 hours, with an overall elevation gain of 6,900m. It’s not a race for your average Hong Kong hiker. Par t of the Mont Blanc World Series, the event attracts elite runners from across the globe and requires entrants to have previously completed a 100km race, or a 50km race in less than 12 hours, within the previous three years.

For Neil O’Maonaigh-Lennon, psychology and science teacher and head of year 9 at Discover y Bay International School (DBIS), the latest instalment of the TransLantau was an oppor tunity he couldn’t pass up. No stranger to long-distance races, Neil arrived in Hong Kong two-and-a-half years ago already a veteran of ultramarathon challenges, having taken par t in multiple events in his native UK. “I’ve been running ultramarathons for over a decade now, so I’m ver y used to longer distances, especially overnight experiences,” he explains. “The races I did in the UK were mainly along canals though, so they were mostly flat. I never really did much hiking there, but since moving to Hong Kong, I’ve become addicted to the mountains. Living in DB, where you’re only ever five or 10 minutes away from getting up into the hills, it’s become one of my weekly habits.”

Kong’s big four (Hong Kong, Maclehose, Wilson and Lantau) in under 24 hours – and his preparation for the 140km involved taking par t in the Coros Spark 100 (reduced to 72km due to safety reasons following autumn’s red and black rainstorms) and the 40kmlong Moontrekker. “That was a brilliant event,” says Neil. “We had a staff social in Mui Wo that evening and the race didn’t star t till 8 o’clock, so I walked over Tiger’s Head with some of my colleagues to get an extra 10km in.”

Hong Kong’s extreme weather impacted the TransLantau too, with par ts of the course deemed unsafe as a result. The “beast” was subsequently tamed to a mere 129km, not that that made things much easier. “It’s cer tainly one of the hardest races I’ve done,” says Neil, citing the elevation aspect, the cut-offs (par ticipants have to reach each checkpoint within a cer tain time in order to continue), and the fact that so much of it takes place at nighttime. “The race star ts in the evening, so unless you’re really quick like the winner, who did it in 16 hours, you’re facing around two thirds of it being in darkness. The second night was one of the hardest aspects, when it was getting dark at around 6pm and there were 11 or 12 hours of full darkness ahead on no sleep.”

DEDICATION TO THE CAUSE

Neil’s low point came on that second night, when he was heading down Sunset Peak. “It was raining quite heavily,” he says, “and it was ver y muddy. It was hard to get a grip, and I wasn’t using poles.

There was one instance where I lost my footing and I slid straight down the mountain, just tr ying to hold on to any thing.”

Neil isn’t exaggerating when he says he’s enthusiastic about hitting the trails. Before taking par t in the TransLantau, he’d already completed each of Hong

The highlight of the race for Neil? “It has to be the DBIS checkpoint. It was wonder ful coming down the steps and seeing so many students, friends and

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PROFILE

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NEIL FINISHED THE TRANSLANTAU IN 39 HOURS

"I’VE BEEN RUNNING ULTRAMARATHONS FOR OVER A DECADE NOW, SO I’M VERY USED TO LONGER DISTANCES ESPECIALLY OVERNIGHT EXPERIENCES...

- NEIL O’MAONAIGH-LENNON AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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PROFILE

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colleagues there, as well as my family. It was really uplif ting. The checkpoint itself was excellent – it had an arch to run through, which made it feel like an unof ficial finish line. The organisation that had gone into it by my colleague Helen, in conjunc tion with UTMB, was fantastic. It was amazing how many people gave up their time to volunteer that weekend – thank you to all of them. The fac t that so many people also came to the checkpoint on the Sunday morning to show their suppor t gave me the motivation to go on and finish – it was a great show of DB’s community spirit.”

The spirit of community and goodwill carried right through to the end, when, 39 hours after star ting, Neil joined with some of his fellow runners to complete the race. “There were four of us who had been leapfrogging each other from DB to Mui Wo,” he explains. “When we got to the end, we all held hands and ran across the finish line together. It really symbolised the camaraderie among the runners.”

NURTURING TOMORROW’S EXPLORERS Of course, a race like the TransLantau doesn’t just require physical fitness; it needs a large dose of mental strength too, which was where Neil’s expertise as a psychology teacher came in handy. “I put a lot of different psychological strategies in place,” he says, “a lot of positive self-talk… That really helped keep me focused during the night; it kept me attuned to my surroundings and helped me to stay positive.

“From a psychological perspective, the race actually served as a good learning experience for my students too. I asked my year 13 psychology class how they could make it into a psychological experiment. We talked about how you could use it to test the effect of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance, running comparison tests before and afterwards. It was definitely a good example of that!”

Neil’s trail racing also gives him the chops to encourage students to get up and out there. As head of year 8 last academic year, he introduced his cohort to the Green Bird Award, which comprises four aspects: service, skills, physical recreation and excursions – you might have seen a few groups of festive young hikers heading over Tiger’s Head with Santa hats on that December!

Green Bird lays the foundation for the Hong Kong Award for Young People, which Neil led at DBIS last year and continues to actively support. He also gets his students involved in initiatives such as marathon and ultramarathon challenges in an effort to further promote their physical and emotional wellbeing, and he leads by example 22

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

IN THE CLASSROOM WITH YEAR 9 STUDENTS

THE (LONG) ROAD AHEAD You might think that having just run/hiked 129km, Neil would have enjoyed some well-deser ved downtime.

You’d be wrong. Just one week later, he was back at it – taking par t in a “small-scale” 10-hour distance challenge, organised by Institute of Endurance Science and Technology, in which par ticipants had to run between DB Pier and the reser voir as many times as they could. Neil completed 56km.

Next up was the 92km Tinwor th Trail, which Neil ran in December. “That was the final piece of the jigsaw for the major Hong Kong trails,” he says. “In my opinion it’s the toughest of the big ones.” Neil was grateful to friends and colleagues, many from DBIS, who took it in turns to join him for sections of the trail.

Where will Neil’s adventures take him next?

“Australia!” he says with a broad smile. “It’s always been a dream of mine to run from Per th to Sydney.

That’s what all of this is building up to. I’m going to attempt it in two years’ time for my 45th bir thday.

I’ve floated the idea with my wife – she’s always known my love for adventure and has been greatly suppor tive of my need for challenge – and the plan is that she will follow with the kids.” (Neil and his wife Cici are parents to Ella, 9, Eoin, 7 and Edward, 3). “In fact, I’m going to attempt the Guinness World Record and tr y to do it in under six weeks. If I’m going to do it, I might as well tr y to beat the record if I can!” Well, why not?

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COMMUNITY

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

! n r u B d n a h s a l S COMMUNITY

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TAKE FLIGHT AND FIGHT FEAR Ray Au outlines what we can expect from 2024, the Year of the Wood Dragon ILLUSTRATION BY Dorothy Veitch

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ccording to Chinese astrology, each year corresponds to one of 12 zodiac animals (Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Ram, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig), in a c ycle that repeat s ever y 12 years. To complicate things a lit tle, each year also corresponds to one of five zodiac element s (Fire, Ear th, Metal, Water and Wood), in a c ycle that repeat s ever y five years.

2024 is the Year of the Dragon (the last one was in 2012). More specifically, it is the Year of the Wood Dragon (the last one was in 1964). So, what does that mean for you?

The first thing you need to know is that the Dragon is the only my thical animal in the Chinese zodiac.

The most majestic beast in the lineup, the Dragon has super powers. He’s a supreme being, who can control the element s, soar through the skies and quite literally move Heaven and Ear th. This means that we can expec t big things from a Dragon Year: a fier y 12 months full of potential and adventure.

THE DRAGON’S FIERY INFLUENCE In predic ting what 2024 will bring, we need to take a good look at the Dragon’s charac teristics. First and foremost, we know him to be synonymous with yang energy — vitality, vision and vigour. Gif ted with innate courage, tenacity and intelligence, Dragons are charismatic, enthusiastic, confident and ambitious. Fearless risk-takers, they are not afraid to

pursue their dreams and goals. Consequently, 2024 is forecast to bring us oppor tunities, changes and challenges in equal measure. We can look for ward to dramatic turnarounds, intense emotions and big decisions.

Dragon years, like 2024, are all about ac tion, ambition and achievement – ver y dif ferent from 2023’s play ful and laid-back Year of the Rabbit.

Dragons are innovators and problem solvers; they are also loyal and fiercely protec tive: they make great leaders. They strive to break with tradition and pave the way for a brighter future. Therefore, 2024 is predic ted to be a good year to star t new projec ts, explore new oppor tunities and find yourself a mentor or mentee.

2024 is also an auspicious year to have a baby, and for good reason. Unparalleled in power and ability, Dragons symbolise nobility, honour and, wait for it, prosperity. They are seen as benevolent moneybringers, (their ability to control wind and rain, and provide farmers with plentiful har vests has been celebrated for centuries). 2024 should therefore be a positive year for all of us financially – filled with promising career changes and developments.

March and April are the best months to change jobs or cash in on all that Dragon-year energy by star ting new, independent projec ts.

Now a word of caution: Dragons have a tendency towards recklessness, instability, dominance and hot temper. You’re dealing with a fire-breathing, AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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scale-clad supernatural beast: he can be aggressive, and when he’s angr y or his pride has been hur t, he can do terrif ying things. Dragon years, therefore, can be ver y explosive: tempers will flare and there’ll be plenty of drama. This can apply to personal relationships and, on a larger scale, the world around us. Be sure to calm down, relax and think before you speak (or ac t) in 2024.

And what of the Dragon’s relatively poor showing in the Great Race? The competition was held by the Jade Emperor to decide the order of the animals in the Chinese zodiac, and the Dragon, with his ability to fly high, was the predic ted winner. Surprisingly, the Dragon placed fif th, crossing the finish line af ter the Rat, Ox, Tiger and Rabbit. Why was this and what does it tell us about the year ahead?

As it turns out, the Dragon was delayed by a series of kind-hear ted detours that reveal his caring side – his sof t underbelly. On his way to the finish line, he saw a village stricken by drought and famine, so he flew across the clouds to make rain and ease the villagers’ suf fering. Back in the race, the Dragon soon caught up with the Rabbit who was being chased by a wolf. He allowed the Rabbit to go on ahead, while he dealt with the wolf, thereby coming in fif th, af ter the Rabbit, and before the Snake.

Within this stor y lies the true message of a Dragon Year – strength is a gif t to be lent, not a power to be wielded.

ADDING FUEL TO THE FIRE The Year of the Wood Dragon is special because it is a rare combination of the power of the Dragon and the creativity brought by the Wood element.

The Wood Dragon is the most creative and visionar y of the dragons. Optimistic, ambitious and adventurous, Wood Dragons like to explore new ideas and challenge themselves. 2024 is therefore a year to pursue our dreams, express our ideas and expand our horizons. Best advice for 2024: control that Dragon-year pride, while drawing on his drive and determination.

The Wood element also represents compassion, loyalty and honesty, something that sits well with the Dragon’s benevolent, humanitarian side. 2024 is therefore a year to be generous and empathic, just as the Dragon was to the Rabbit during the Jade Emperor’s Great Race.

Looked at another way, the Wood element can be seen to add fuel to the fire, enhancing the Dragon’s innate intensity and instability. If change is what you’re after, get ready to be happy, cour tesy of a slash-and-burn path to newness. In a global context, a Wood Dragon Year could equate to unrest and upheaval – progress at a price. The lesson the 26

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

THE TRUE MESSAGE OF A DRAGON YEAR – STRENGTH IS A GIFT TO BE LENT, NOT A POWER TO BE WIELDED Dragon is here to teach is not compromise, wherein someone or ever yone loses something, but creative solution, in which ever yone gains more than they ever expected. To take it back to the Great Race, when we help others get to the proverbial shore, we earn not just respect, but our own place in the circle.

LUCK AND COMPATIBILITY How we will fare in the Year of the Dragon also depends on the year we were born – on how well our “bir th animal” gets on with the Dragon. The Chinese zodiac animals most compatible with the Dragon are the Monkey, Rooster, Ram and Pig, which is fantastic news for all Monkeys, Roosters, Rams and Pigs heading into 2024. The Monkey’s love of the limelight, the Rooster’s readiness for a fight, the Ram’s idealism and the Pig’s perseverance all vibe well with the power-hungr y Dragon. These are the advisors he wants by his side.

Likewise, Tigers, Rabbits and Snakes should do well in 2024, since they also have a lot to offer the Dragon.

The Tiger’s courage and flamboyance appeals, as does the Rabbit’s plucky vulnerability and the Snake’s sly intelligence. However, if you’re born in the Year of the Rat, Ox, Horse, Goat or Dog, you should brace yourself for a bumpy 2024, with some power struggles and financial challenges ahead.

Meanwhile, those born in a Dragon Year are not in as power ful a position as you might think. According to Chinese astrology, we offend the Tai Sui gods in a year that is governed by our bir th animal, meaning we can expect many challenges and unexpected changes. In 2024, Dragons are advised to tread with caution, and invest in some tried-and-tested feng shui remedies.

Be sure to carr y a lucky rooster trinket… and wear red under wear. Gong Hei Fat Choy!

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INFINITE BRIGHTNESS! Hong Kong Arts Festival’s No Limits 2024 opens in February and features four fierce overseas productions that champion inclusivity through the arts PHOTO COURTESY OF HKAF

Now in its sixth year, No Limits, co-presented by Hong Kong Arts Festival and Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, sets out to provide audiences with a variety of performances, including dance, theatre, music and film, all of which showcase creativity, talent and inclusion. Conceived and performed by artists with disabilities from Hong Kong and around the world, these productions explore daily life, interpersonal relationships, work encounters, social expectations and other people’s perceptions. They encourage audiences to experience at first-hand issues that artists of different abilities are most concerned about.

While No Limits kicks off in February, four thoughtp ro v o k i n g , o v e r s e a s p ro d u c t i o n s t a k e c e n t re stage in March: Shape on Us by Vertigo Power of Balance, Scored in Silence by Chisato Minamimura, Hamlet by Teatro La Plaza and Gentle Unicor n

by Chiara Bersani.

F i r s t u p , i s S h a p e o n U s b y I s r a e l ’s l e a d i n g contemporary dance company Vertigo Power of Balance, showing at the Auditorium, Kwai Tsing Theatre on March 2 and 3. Eight dancers with different physical abilities break away from the aids that serve them to form a mutually supportive, collective organism. As the dancers explore and overcome their individual fragilities and needs, renowned choreographer Sharon Fridman invites audiences to re-examine social conventions surrounding the body, and to question their own perception of what is considered “normal”.

Showing at JC Cube, Tai Kwun from March 7-10,

Scored in Silence is a solo sign-language performance

by Chisato Minamimura, a deaf Japanese artist and choreographer based in London. Through signing, mime, holo-gauze screen animation, video footage, sound and vibration, Minamimura tells the story of the small number of deaf people who survived the atomic bombings in Japan. In so doing, she gives voice to those who are disenfranchised, and offers audiences insight into how deaf people perceive the world around them.

At the Auditorium, Kwai Tsing Theatre from March 8-10, Lima-based Teatro La Plaza is showcasing its reconceptualised version of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, enacted by a group of young adults with Down Syndrome. Blending Shakespeare’s original text with the actor’s personal monologues, the production takes a bold look at questions of inclusion.

Audiences are encouraged to reflect on the meaning of existence – “To be or not to be?” – in a world where human worth is measured against unattainable standards of efficiency, production and beauty.

Last but not least, award-winning Italian artist Chiara Bersani is perfor ming Gentle Unicor n at the Black Box Theatre, Kwai Tsing Theatre, from M a rc h 1 4 - 1 7 . B e r s a n i , w h o i s 9 8 - c e n t i m e t re s tall,embodies the unicor n, bringing it to life in a bewitching piece of physical theatre. Alone on stage, Bersani examines the interpretations given to bodies that meet societal expectations in different ways. She invites audiences to take a good look at themselves and by so doing, rethink the way they see others. Afterall, if inclusivity is championed, there are no limits.

To book tickets for these upcoming shows and know more about No Limits, visit www.nolimits.hk.

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DMR School of Ballet Annual Performance Each year, DMR Dancers showcase their hard work, passion and fun costumes in our annual performance. We can't wait until ‘The Toy Box’!

Hong Kong Disneyland Our dancers, aged 6+, have an amazing and exciting opportunity to perform at Hong Kong Disneyland, along the parade route!

Other Performances We are excited to have the opportunities to perform at different venues around Hong Kong such as DB Dragon Boat, and at the AIA Carnival.

RAD Ballet Our Ballerinas can participate in our graded classes following the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Syllabus and focus on strength and grace.

ISTD Modern and Tap Modern (Jazz) is a great to gain flexibility, technique and grow as performers. Our tap classes focus on rhythm, line and style, and confidence!

info@dmr-hk.com

+852 5210 7208

Unit 21, 1/F, DB North

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! a i v i r T f o t i B e l t it L A 20 QUESTIONS

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VALENTINE’S QUIZ

Test your knowledge of the greatest romance novels of all time on the most romantic day of the year!

BY Nicole Innocenti

1. Which D.H. Lawrence novel was banned for obscenity worldwide?

A. Women in Love B. Lady Chatterley’s Lover C. Sons and Lovers 2. Which Charlotte Bronte novel features a madwoman in the attic?

A. Villette B. The Professor C. Jane Eyre 3. Which of the following is not a Jane Austen romance?

A. North and South B. Emma C. Sense and Sensibility 4. Who wrote The Fault in Our Stars?

A. Jojo Moyes B. Rachael Lippincott C. John Green 5. Which of these romance novels was not written in the 21st century?

A. The Time Traveler’s Wife B. Something Borrowed C. Morning Glory 30

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

20 QUESTIONS

6. Which of these movies is not based on a book?

A. Bridget Jones’s Diary B. Eat, Pray, Love C. About Time 7. An unnamed woman is the heroine of which Daphne du Maurier romance?

A. Rebecca B. Frenchman’s Creek C. Jamaica Inn 8. How many proposals does Elizabeth Bennet get in Pride and Prejudice?

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14. In Gone with the Wind, the novel not the movie, what are Rhett Butler’s last words to Scarlett O’Hara?

A. Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn B. My dear, I don’t give a damn C. Love means never having to say you’re sorr y 15. What is the best-selling romance novel of all time?

A. Anna Karenina B. Fifty Shades of Gray C. The Notebook 16. Who, currently, sells the most romance novels?

A. 1

A. Colleen Hoover

B. 3

B. Emily Henr y

C. 6

C. Christina Lauren

9. In Call Me by Your Name, what is the age difference between Elio and Oliver?

17. In Out of Africa, who does Karen Blixen fall in love with?

A. 3 years

A. Berkeley Cole

B. 5 years

B. Denys Finch-Hatton

C. 7 years

C. Bror von Blixen-Finecke

10. Who wrote Atonement?

18. How many Twilight books are there?

A. Ian McEwan

A. 3

B. Salman Rushdie

B. 4

C. Thomas Hardy

C. 6

11. What are the main characters’ names in The Great Gatsby?

19. In the book of the same name, who is the English patient?

A. James and Daisy

A. An English lord

B. Jay and Daisy

B. A Hungarian count

C. James and Diana

C. A Canadian thief

12. Who does Cathy haunt in Wuthering Heights?

20. Which of the following is not a quote from The Princess Bride?

A. Heathcliff B. Westcliff C. Linton

A. As you wish B. Death cannot stop true love C. Life is good, Highness

13. Who does Laurie marry in Little Women?

A. Beth B. Jo C. Amy

You can check your score at www.arounddb.com> 20-questions>valentine’s-quiz.

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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CONTRIBUTED ARTICLE

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Y O U R PA T H T O C I T I Z E N S H I P Jean-François Harvey of Harvey Law Group (HLG) gives the lowdown on global immigration by investment programmes Investment visa programmes, also known as immigration by investment programmes, or entrepreneur visas, are government programmes c re a t e d t o s t i m u l a t e e c o n o m i c a c t i v i t y i n t h e i r country through the attraction of investment capital and entrepreneurial talent. In return, they allow foreign investors to gain a residence visa and potentially, a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship.

Through immigration by investment programmes, there are two paths to citizenship: the first is a direct pathway through which citizenship is granted ahead of residency, in the second, qualification for citizenship is granted after a few years’ residency.

The Caribbean offers some of the oldest, “direct pathway” immigration by investment programmes for five different countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Dominica, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia.

Meanwhile, many people who wish to enjoy the European lifestyle, for instance in Spain, Portugal, Malta, Cyprus or Greece, are taking advantage of European Golden Visas that grant residency for five to seven years, and can lead to per manent residency or citizenship.

Other countries providing immigration by investment programmes are South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Singapore and Vanuatu.

Investment visa programmes are also available in France, the UK and Turkey. In the US, there is the Eb-2 Visa, and in Canada, the Start-Up Visa.

ELIGIBILITY, CONDITIONS AND BENEFITS T h e e l i g i b i l i t y a n d re q u i re m e n t s o f i n v e s t m e n t v i s a p ro g r a m m e s v a r y b u t t h e y t e n d t o i n v o l v e the following:

2. Requisite qualifications such as education, appropriate work experience and/ or language skills.

3. Proof of good health, a clean criminal record and evidence of sufficient funds.

Entrepreneur visas usually require funding from a source other than the applicant, such as an outside investor. This is usually an established commercial entity that can act as an advisor or incubator and will sponsor the applicant’s business venture, supply documentation and assess business plans.

In return for the investment and other criteria, benefits of investment visa programmes can include residency for a length of time, permanent residency or citizenship. This can lead to rights to live, work, or study in the new host country, plus access to a more tax friendly regime (depending on the jurisdiction). The granting of citizenship or residency can also dramatically improve one’s ability to travel, for example residency in most European countries gives access to the whole of the Schengen Area for 90 days in every 180.

Business advantages include access to global markets, preferential support for new investors and special advantages in local business operations.

Further lifestyle benefits include opportunities to experience new cultures and greater personal freedom, plus access to hospitals, education and other support infrastructure at dramatically subsidised rates. Subject to additional costs, immigration by investment programmes may offer the inclusion of a spouse, children, parents, grandparents and siblings.

1. A s u b s t a n t i a l c a p i t a l i n v e s t m e n t ( m i n i m u m amount and holding period varies).

Founded in 1992 by Jean-François Harvey, Harvey Law Group (HLG) has quickly evolved into a leading multinational law firm that has developed a worldwide reputation amongst discerning businesses, individuals and governments across North America, Asia, Africa, Middle East and South America. For more information, email HLG at contact@harveylawcoporation.com, call 2116 1333, or visit www.harveylawcorporation.com.

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E V E RY C H I L D D E S E RV E S TO C E L E B R AT E T H E I R B I RT H DAY TO K E E P A S A L I FE- LO N G M E M O RY

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PARENTING

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! s e i it v i t c A e l b a or d A LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Use the excitement and buzz surrounding Valentine’s Day to spend some fun family time together, while encouraging kindness and gratitude PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock

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PARENTING

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wrote of the engagement of King Richard II to A nne of Bohemia: “For this was on St Valentine’s Day, when ever y bird cometh there to choose his mate.” It was believed during this period that birds would pair for life each year in mid - Febr uar y, leading to the as sociation with romantic love and par tner ship that endures to this day.

DIY LOVE LETTERS It first became customar y for lovers to exchange handwritten notes back in the 18th centur y, when Valentine’s cards would be cut into hear t-, doveand cherub-shaped outlines and finished with lace.

These days, Februar y 14 sees us showering our loved ones with gif ts and even jeweller y; e-cards are an increasingly popular way of marking the day.

Encourage children to hand-decorate a card for the person that they love and admire the most – be this a family member, teacher or friend. You can provide them with simple materials such as construc tion paper, stickers, markers, paper hear ts, glitter and glue, and let them get creative.

Add to the fun by encouraging children to send their message anonymously, leaving the recipient to guess who their secret admirer might be. A fun t wist for lit tle ones is to sign their name in invisible ink (make this at home by blending water with lemon juice). They can then of fer a few cr yptic clues as to their true identit y. The grand reveal can be achieved by simply holding the paper up to the light.

T

here’s nothing (aside from cof fee) that makes the world go round quite as much as love, and Febr uar y 14 is all about celebr ating those war m and fuz z y feelings with the people who touch your hear t the ver y mos t. A nd while your pre - kids Valentine’s Day routine may have included c andlelit dinner s, chilled champer s and lavish lingerie, it ’s s till pos sible to embr ace that loving feeling with small people in tow.

St ar t by discus sing the origin of Valentine’s Day – something of a mys ter y, as there are ac tually not one, but three Saint Valentine’s to be found in the record books, with lit tle k nown of their lives. The Valentine’s Day that we now celebr ate was mos t likely created in the 14th centur y by the English poet and author, Geof frey Chaucer. He

Valentine’s Day gives children a chance to tell those who are close to them the things they appreciate and love about them. A fun way for them to do this is by craf ting a gratitude box; a fun and af fordable Valentine’s Day gif t, that’s also ver y meaningful.

Give your child a shoebox to decorate and then have them fill it with unsigned letters and tokens of appreciation. Deliver the box in secret and tr y not to get caught!

SAY IT WITH FLOWERS For many an old romantic, Valentine’s Day is synonymous with red roses. What you may not know is that your bouquet may hold hidden significance – 50 red roses are said to symbolise eternal love, 12 are for gratitude, while t wo bound together represent an engagement. Always count your stems carefully!

But it’s not all about the rose, which – especially at this time of year – can be over-priced and hard to find. Hinduism recognises the jasmine flower as a symbol of love, while pink, red and white carnations AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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PARENTING

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all carr y romantic associations. Meanwhile, here in Hong Kong, our beloved bamboo not only makes for sturdy scaf folding, but also represents resilience and grace, making it a thoughtful component of any Valentine’s Day bouquet.

To get the kids in on the ac t, take a trip to Prince Edward then wander Flower Market Road, allowing them to customise their ver y own bunch of blooms.

Alter natively, you c an help the kids make their own colour ful paper bouquet s. Cut individual pet als, and then use a paper punch to create small holes in the bot tom of each one, before threading through a lollipop “s tem” to fas ten your f lower together. Wr ap in brown paper for an authentic f loris t ’s feel then let them dis tribute a lit tle f lor al sweetnes s to friends.

HANG OUT AT HOME Valentine’s Day is a great oppor tunit y to spend qualit y time with your kids and show them how much you love them. So why not organise a Valentine’s Day picnic or scavenger hunt? You could set aside time af ter school (Februar y 14 falls on a Wednesday this year) to snuggle up together with some popcorn and watch a romantic or familyfriendly movie. Or you could invite besties over for a full-blown Valentine’s Day par t y, complete with hear t-themed craf t s and games, a piñata and sweet treat s.

For something a lit tle dif ferent, you could surprise the kids with a Valentine’s Day photo shoot – set up a fun backdrop and props and let them take turns posing for cute Valentine’s Day photos. Or make a Valentine’s Day time capsule – have the kids collec t special items and memories from the day and put them in a box to be opened and enjoyed in the future.

Whatever you end up doing, you’ll need some fuel aka sweet Valentine’s Day treat s, so get the kids into the kitchen to bake. Lit tle chefs will love helping you whip up chocolate bark, hear t-shaped sugar cookies, or crispy rice treat s. For something healthier that doubles up as a fun family ac tivit y, tr y dipping strawberries in melted chocolate before cooling in the fridge. (Alternatively, stock up on Belgian truf fles and save them until the kids are asleep.)

COUPLES ONLY While it’s great to share the love with all the family, it’s impor tant for busy parents to take time together.

To help with this, the Auberge is laying on the love on Februar y 14 with a Valentine’s Day Staycation Package which includes one night in a mountain 36

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

A DOZEN GAMES TO PLAY •

Valentine’s Day tic-tac-toe

•

Make sentences using “conversation heart” candies

•

Valentine’s Day bingo

•

See who can decorate a Valentine’s Day card fastest

•

Valentine’s Day word searches

•

Make a DIY hopscotch game using cut-out hearts

•

Valentine’s Day “Outburst” with DIY topics

•

Pin the arrow on the heart

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Valentine’s Day colouring pages

•

Play “I spy” (pink or red things only)

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Valentine’s Day ring toss using pink or red cups

•

Try to blindly identify different types of chocolate

view room, breakfast buf fet for two and set dinner for two, plus a cocktail-making workshop.

If all that indulgence sounds too much, grab your significant other and hit up The Trail Hub’s annual Valentine’s Day Race, scheduled for Februar y 4 this year. Star ting and finishing at Treasure Island on Pui O Beach, you can choose to run either the 15 -kilometre Tough Love or the 9-kilometre Easy Love, both open to teams of t wo. All par tners must finish the course together, making it a trust, as well as a physical exercise, and a great way to work up a sweat together!

CONTRIBUTED ARTICLE

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CONFRONTING THE WORST-CASE SCENARIO Neil McCor mick, Senior Partner at Lifestyle Insurance, reveals why you need to prepare for the unexpected by investing in personal insurance covers Insurance is only appreciated when it is needed or something bad occurs. Read this alarming story to see how things can unfold when you least expect it, and why you need to provide your family with adequate insurance coverage.

David and his wife, Emma are keen hikers and had been looking forward to their trip to hike Kota Kinabulu in Malaysia for months. It was the perfect opportunity for them to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. Unfortunately, things didn’t go exactly as planned.

As the couple were about to board the connecting flight from Kuala Lumpur at 11pm, an announcement came that their flight had been cancelled due to a mechanical breakdown and the next available flight would not be until the next mor ning. Tired and frustrated by the news, David called the emergency hotline at his insurance company. He was put at ease when he was notified that the additional transportation to the hotel and accommodation expenses in Kuala Lumpur would be covered by the family’s Travel Insurance policy.

H o w e v e r, a t K o t a K i n a b u l u , t h i n g s w e re a b o u t to go from bad to worse for the couple. Whilst h i k i n g a s p a r t o f a g ro u p o n d e s i g n a t e d t r a i l , David slipped and had a severe fall. As a result, he suffered a T6 vertebra fracture and was in a coma for two days. After a few days of being hospitalised locally, David had to be medically evacuated by air

ambulance to Kuala Lumpur for a further period of hospitalisation. The total cost, including medical expenses, evacuation and prepaid cost of missed events came to HK$180,960. To their relief, after support from their insurance broker, this was fully covered by their Travel Insurance.

After finally arriving back to Hong Kong, David and his wife thought the nightmare was over.

However, as they approached their front door, they noticed that the door lock had been damaged. To their shock, upon entering their apartment, a number of expensive valuables, including limited-edition watches had been s t o l e n . F o r t u n a t e l y, D a v i d h a d a d e q u a t e coverage in place and his Home Contents policy fully covered the loss of HK$653,250, subject to policy excesses.

These personal insurance covers not only saved David and Emma from a substantial loss but also gave support and peace of mind in their time of need. After all, insurance is about being equipped to handle unexpected events when they arise and transferring that risk to the insurer.

As your community insurance broker in Discovery Bay, Lifestyle Insurance is excited to offer you a choice of several insurance solutions with real benefits when bundled. When you purchase Travel Insurance, Helper Insurance and Home Contents Insurance together, you will receive 100% of the cover with a 25% discount on the premiums. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to protect yourself, your loved ones and your belongings at a more affordable price.

Call 3115 7620 or email us at info@lfsinsurance.com for a quote, you’ll be surprised by the premiums!

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LIVING THE HIGH LIFE No terrace? No yard? No problem. With a carefully decked-out balcony, you can enjoy time outdoors year round PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock, Hong Kong Outdoor Furniture & Everything Under The Sun

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

U

sable terraces and roof tops in Hong Kong come at a premium, and func tioning yards are few and far between, even in Discover y Bay. Nonetheless, it seems ever yone wants a little bit of the outside to come in – even when accompanied by the dulcet tones of jackhammers. Older buildings are hit and miss, but developers are increasingly building apar tment blocks that include balconies.

How much a balcony is used comes down to a number of fac tors. How comfor table are you 101-storeys up? Is there any sor t of view? Is it a good size or just a sliver suitable for waxing poetic with a dude in pantyhose? Either way, a balcony is a valuable bit of space that’s easy enough to exploit with a little thought and at a variety of price points.

EXPANDING YOUR SPACE If you own your flat, depending on the size and placement of the balcony, you could knock down a few walls and incorporate the space into the fundamental layout. This can be done assuming you meet specific requirements. First, you need to arrange for an authorised person to do the submission to the Buildings Depar tment (BD) for Alteration and Addition work, which states the change of the outlook of the building and func tion of the balcony to that of a domestic area. If passed by the BD, you then need to have fur ther approval in order to change the appearance of the building and you must assign a registered contrac tor to carr y out the work. Also? No heav y loading where the original balcony was.

A balcony can be redesigned illegally of course – and on the cheap. It’s common enough but the downside is getting caught by the BD and being compelled to reinstate the balcony to its original state. No one is suggesting you tr y this in DB. If you want to go down the legal route then you can enlarge the opening or windows, assuming the wall onto the balcony is not a struc tural wall.

Visually that makes the apar tment feels bigger. This involves calculating the spare allowable gross floor area, which of ten comes to a whopping zero, and then submitting plans to the BD. This is an option for owners as the process can be expensive. It will cost upwards of HK$70,000 for a trained accredited professional to do the plans and submit them.

FILLING IN THE DETAILS Tenant or owner, the first step is always determining the end goal. What goes onto a small- to mid-sized balcony, how many uses the space will ultimately have and even considering which way it faces will solve those problems. And then it ’s time to think about buying a few key pieces.

INSIDER

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FUNCTIONALITY AND SIZE ARE INTERLINKED. IF YOUR BALCONY IS REALLY CRAMPED THEN YOU CAN ADD A SMALL EXTENDABLE TABLE, ONE OR TWO CHAIRS AND SOME PLANTS TO AT LEAST CREATE A COMFORTABLE PLACE TO SIT AND RELAX Traditionally, those 15, 25 or 50 square-feet have been put to totally prosaic ends: small balconies were used simply for hanging clothes or as a kids’ play area. It ’s clear that func tionalit y and size are interlinked but even the tiniest outdoor space can be bet ter utilised. If your balcony is really cramped then you can add a small ex tendable table, one or t wo chairs and some plant s to at least create a comfor table place to sit and relax. Go with your gut instinc t – it makes per fec t sense not to overdesign miniature balconies, especially in rentals.

Hong Kong has one of the harshest environment s in the world (a deadly cock tail of heat, sun, humidit y and pollution), meaning you’re limited in your use of natural materials. Since maintenance and cleaning are issues, quick- dr y foams and Sunbrella fabric s are your go -to. For tunately, you can take a hose to almost all contemporar y outdoor furniture, with synthetic rat tan and weaves, synthetic leathers by Ferrari and so on. We’ve come a long way from plain old white plastic.

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INSIDER

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And the good news is that many existing pieces, that have perhaps become redundant inside the home, transfer well to a balcony. Myriad materials exist just as easily outdoors as in: the spec trum ranges from bamboo and cement, to rat tan and wicker. If you like a timeless look, wood, par ticularly teak, which was originally used on boat s, is a good bet. Let it weather to it s natural silver grey, and it will last forever.

Arguably, no outdoor space is complete without a barbeque and happily, they now come as small as you like. Scads of websites and shops will bombard you with tips, but the key to choosing a barbeque comes down to the basic s. First, go with gas not charcoal. Second, purchase brand-name items that come with strong produc t warranties, good customer suppor t and are easily assembled. Third, choose a grill with at least 40 0 square inches of cooking space. There’s nothing worse than staggering too many items for larger gatherings, or making people wait during intimate dinners.

Lastly, don’t get suckered by bells and whistles: selec t features that are essential, like stay- cool dials and adequate storage. Preparation sur faces are nice, but if space is limited, simply do your chopping in the kitchen.

BREEZY HAVEN ONE-SEATER SOFA, HK$3,600, HONG KONG OUTDOOR FURNITURE

HEATING THINGS UP If you’re lucky, light will spill outside from whatever room the balcony is accessed, but lighting, heating and cooling sometimes need to be considered. A licensed elec trician can of ten rig a power source to run a small fan or space heater, helping you out in the dog days of summer and dead of winter. As for light retailers, you can unear th understated wall-mount lights inexpensively from IKEA or your friendly neighbourhood hardware store.

A novel alternative, providing both light and heat, is a fireplace. Yes, a fireplace. Safretti makes ecofriendly, space-saving fireplaces that do not require a power source, outlet, piping, or chimney. While the single-burner models are purely decorative, the regular models are strong enough to ser ve as outdoor heat sources. Check out the stackable, floor-standing Cube fireplace and the classic, wall-mounted Gaya: both are simple, elegant and compact.

Likewise, fire-pit tables are a chic al-fresco feature, giving of f much-needed heat in the winter months.

The per fec t spot for friends and family to gather around and chat, they are also a great tool for toasting kebabs and of course, marshmallows.

Taking it to the next level, Guy Ritchie’s Wild Table 4, which doubles as an outdoor grill and heater, provides a wow-fac tor focal point and is compac t enough (1.22 metres long, 1.05 metres wide) to sit on even the smallest balcony.

If a little heat is all you need, however, there are plenty of stylish, free-standing, weather-proof 42

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

CANE-LINE EMBER FIREPIT, HK$9,243, EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN

heaters to choose from. Look to Hiland’s range of 360 -degree radiant heaters that can be easily moved around and provide multi-direc tional, adjustable heat wherever needed. Stunning looking when lit, they’re guaranteed to make a statement without overpowering a small balcony.

And overpowering might just be a balcony decor’s cardinal sin. Don’t overcrowd it. That’s the biggest thing. At the end of the day, you won’t use it and it won’t be inviting. Go smaller rather than bigger and you’ll ac tually enjoy it more.

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NICE LA BELLE Queen of the French Riviera REPORTING BY Nicole Innocenti PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock

THE FIFTH LARGEST CITY IN FRANCE, Nice oozes chic with

its glamorous beaches and chateaux, its treasure-filled museums and atmospheric old town. Recognised by UNESCO as a winter resor t town, it enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate year-round and close proximity to the Alps.

PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS, the

renowned walkway that overlooks La Baie des Anges, stretches for 7 kilometres and enjoys beautiful sea views. You can rest up on iconic Mediterranean-blue deckchairs, or rent skates, scooters and bikes to discover impressive La Prom landmarks, such as the art-deco Palais de la Méditerranée.

APPRECIATE ART at the Musee Matisse, which homes a wonderful selection of Henri Matisse’s oil paintings, drawings, sculptures and tapestries. Fans of Marc Chagall can also drop by the Musée National Marc Chagall to view the largest public collection of the painter’s work.

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Musee Massena, which was originally built as a home for Prince Vec tor d’Essling, the grandson of one of Napoléon’s favourite generals. The museum document s the origins of Nice, the histor y of the French Riviera and the impac t s of tourism, and the enduring impor tance of Februar y’s Carnaval de Nice.

COURS SALEYA MARKET dates

back to 1861. It’s filled with a plethora of glorious Mediterranean produce – flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables – and transforms into a flea market on Mondays. As you wonder the pedestrianised marketplace, treat yourself to local specialties like pissaladiere (onion and anchovy tar t) and socca (chickpea flour pancakes).

PARC PHOENIX zoological

garden features everything from flamingos and peacocks to crocodiles. Built around a central lake and spread over seven hectares, it’s home to more than 2,500 plant species. There’s also a huge greenhouse, the Diamant Vert, in which a total of six tropical climates are recreated.

GET YOUR GLAM ON year-round at La Galet. There are four miles of pebble-strewn beach to explore in Nice – this is the capital of the Côte d’Azur, after all – and La Galet has to be one of the most picturesque. It’s also one of the best places to see the Carnaval de Nice march past.

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RECIPES

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The Food of Love Planning a date night with your Valentine on February 14? Here are the ingredients you need for a fancy, romantic night in

BY Nicole Innocenti PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock

OYSTER AND CAVIAR Serves 2 1½ tbsp lemon juice 1tsp minced shallot ½tsp pink peppercorns, crushed 2tsp chilled prosecco 12 oysters on half shell 55g caviar

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

Combine the lemon juice, shallots and peppercorns in a small bowl. Refrigerate for about 1 hour to let the flavours marinate.

Just before serving, add the prosecco to the mignonette sauce and season with a pinch of salt. Chuck the oysters and spoon over the desired amount of sauce. Top each with a dollop of caviar. Serve immediately.

RECIPES

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RECIPES

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SAFFRON RISOTTO Serves 4 1.2l chicken stock 2tbsp butter 1tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 350g arborio risotto rice 125ml dry white wine ½tsp saffron 50g parmesan, grated 1 egg yolk

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

Heat the stock in a pan over a very low heat. Melt the butter and olive oil in a high-sided, non-stick frying pan. Add the onion and a large pinch of salt, then cook, stirring, for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant but not colouring. Tip in the rice and coat it in the oil and butter.

Cook for a few minutes until the rice begins to toast.

Pour in the wine and stir until it’s absorbed.

Add the saffron and begin to add the warm stock, a ladle at a time, stirring continually. Add more stock as it’s absorbed. After 25 to 30 minutes, all the stock should be absorbed and the rice should be creamy and al dente.

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EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 Tung Chung Ambulance Depot Tung Chung Fire Station Tung Chung Police Station HOME & REPAIRS Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Mr Chan 24-Hour Handyman Papabo Shun Yu Engineering HOTELS Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Novotel Citygate Hong Kong Regal Airport Hotel Sheraton Tung Chung The Silveri Hong Kong - MGallery LEARNING CENTRES Clement Art School Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Primary School Greenfield International Kindergarten Salala Kids’ House Sun Island Education Foundation Tung Chung Catholic School YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College MEDICAL Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre North Lantau Hospital North Lantau Physiotherapy Quality Health Dental Quality Health Care Medical Raffles Medical Raffles Medical Emergency

REALTORS 2988 8282 HomeSolutions 3483 5003 2988 1898 3661 1999 REMOVALS & RELOCATION Akash Removals 2421 8088 FTC Relocations 2814 1658 2109 2330 ReloSmart 2561 3030 9343 3718 SwiftRelo 2363 4008 5541 1502 2988 1488 RESIDENTIAL SERVICES Caribbean Coast Clubhouse 2109 9277 Caribbean Coast Management Office 2109 9288 2179 6678 3969 1888 Coastal Skyline Clubhouse 2179 6621 3602 8888 Coastal Skyline Management Office 3473 8700 2286 8888 Seaview Crescent Clubhouse 3473 8833 2535 0000 Seaview Crescent Management Office 2403 6770 3602 8989 Tung Chung Crescent Clubhouse Tung Chung Crescent Management Office 2109 1222 RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY A Tavola Bar & Grill 2321 5500 Andante, Novotel Citygate 3602 8828 Cabana Breeze 2777 8982 Café Aficionado 2286 6238 Café Lantau, Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0021 Funky Monkey 2427 1111 Jasmine Tung Chung 2162 8018 La Rosabelle Bar & Grill 2881 8788 La Vista 2368 6866 2535 0023 2185 6550 Lobby Lounge, Sheraton Tung Chung 2330 0131 2109 9396 Maison Du Mezze 3500 5885 2109 2288 Man Mano Italian Restaurant 2762 8077 3467 7000 Mint & Basil 2116 8149 2194 0020 Moon Lok Chiu Chow 2907 6918 2403 6613 My Thai 2234 9199 2403 6623 Nha Trang Vietnamese Cuisine 2297 3588 2261 2626 PizzaExpress 2261 0999 Regala Café & Dessert Bar, Regal Airport Hotel 2286 6618 9757 9157 2987 8070 2915 0666 2162 5538 2611 9193 2420 1068 2121 0884 2988 8123

Rouge, Regal Airport Hotel 2286 6868 Skycity Bistro, SkyCity Marriott 3969 2500 Sunset Grill, Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0025 The New Chapter 2907 6988 The Tavern 2907 6822 Upper Deck 2757 8889 Yue, Sheraton Tung Chung 2535 0028 Velocity Bar & Grill, Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott 3969 1888 RETAIL FTC Apparel Lantau Balloons

2428 2566 9733 5483

SPORT & RECREATION Asia Pacific Soccer Schools 2385 9677 Aqua Gym 2914 0658 B & S Art Gallery 2493 8895 Dance for Joy 9264 8597 Edge ’n Pointe Dance Centre 6688 2167 ESF Sports 2711 1280 Fitness in Motion 9744 4736 HK Dragons 2987 4274 Kinder Kicks Soccer 2385 9677 Perun Fitness 6443 6597 Rugbytots 5307 6677 Tung Chung Public Swimming Pool 2109 9107 Tung Chung Sports Centre 2109 2421 Tung Chung Rugby Club 6079 0825 VETERINARY SERVICES & PETS Royal Pets (Pet Sitting) Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung Chung Vet Centre

6314 9887 2988 1534 2328 7282

WELLBEING & BEAUTY Max Beauty Spa OM Spa, Regal Airport Hotel Tung Chung Nail Ninjas Quan Spa, Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott

2162 5752 2286 6266 9551 6468 3692 1888

The Gallery The Kitchen Treasure Island Beach Club

2980 2582 5991 6292 5236 7013

RETAIL Bella Ciao Lantau Friendly Bike Shop Garden Plus Island Wines Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. Lantau Base Camp Lantau Grocer Red Hall Chinese Antiques Steak King Mui Wo Tony’s Salon Value Vigilantes VIBE Book & Music Shop

9321 0487 2984 2278 2980 2233 9521 8481 2984 8346 9889 4375 2702 0050 2988 1368 5988 2005 2984 0990 6132 9120 9088 2370

SPORT & RECREATION Long Coast Seasports South Lantau Paddle Club Treasure Island Beach Club

5545 5625 6058 8843 2546 3543

WELLBEING & BEAUTY Pause by the Banyan Spa Ambiance

9708 0187 2984 2488

SOUTH LANTAU EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 Lantau South Police Mui Wo Fire Department

MEDICAL 3661 1696 North Lantau Hospital 3467 7000 2984 1570 REALTORS HOME & REPAIRS Findley Leung 2984 8334 Koon Wah Hardware 2984 8487 HomeSolutions 3483 5003 Lee Wo Construction Engineering 2984 1802 Man Shun Construction & Engineering 2984 9833 REMOVALS & RELOCATION New Look Design 9783 5840 Akash Removals 2421 8088 Papabo 5541 1502 FTC Relocations 2814 1658 Lee Hing Loong 2984 2268 HOTELS ReloSmart 2561 3030 Silvermine Beach Resort 6810 0111 SwiftRelo 2363 4008 Tai O Heritage Hotel 2985 8383 RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY LEARNING CENTRES Bathers 2504 4788 Ashville International Kindergarten & Nursery 2109 9886 Bella Ciao Lantau 9321 0487 Buddhist Fat Ho College 2985 5365 Cafe Isara 2470 1966 Lantau International Kindergarten 2984 0302 Caffe Paradiso 2984 0498 Lantau International School, Reception, 2984 0302 China Bear 2984 9720 Lantau International School, Lower Primary 2980 3676 La Pizzeria 2984 8933 Lantau International School, Upper Primary 2984 0302 Lantana Italian Bistro 5465 5511 Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten 3689 7033 Long Island 2320 2001 Mui Wo Language Cafe 5511 6107 Pause Cafe 5267 5549 Silvermine Bay School 2984 0006 The China Beach Club 2983 8931

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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LOCAL NUMBERS

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DISCOVERY BAY BUSINESS SERVICES Monx T8 Consulting Ltd

5286 0155 2517 8248

EMERGENCY SERVICES 999 China Light & Power Emergency DB Fire & Ambulance Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Police Report Room

2728 8333 2987 7502 2435 4511 3661 1694

FINANCIAL SERVICES Bank of China 2160 8585 HSBC 2233 3000 HOME & REPAIRS Chameleon Design & Interiors China Light & Power Information DRS Company Good Luck Engineering Island Cleaning Solutions

May’s Furniture & Curtain Design Rich Point Hardware Materials Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department Well Supreme Laundry

9219 8169 2678 2678 9156 0360 2987 1313 6091 5176 2987 0222 2987 0789 2811 0788 2824 5000 2987 5151

HOTELS Auberge Discovery Bay

2295 8288

LAWYERS & INSURANCE 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,

Manulife 9172 9152 LEARNING CENTRES & SCHOOLS 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

Yifan Mandarin Zhi Zhi Chinese

9208 7611 9648 2966

MEDICAL Bayside Dental Practice 2987 0855 DB Medical Centre 2987 5633 Health & Care Dental Clinic 2666 6183 Island Health 2987 7575 North Lantau Hospital 3467 7000 Quality Health Medical Centre 2987 5633 Quality Health Physiotherapy 2473 6200 Lok Kwan Home Care Service 2803 2103 Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Lok Kwan District Support Centre (Islands) 2548 0060/ 2546 3739 Yulana Stynder Physiotherapy 5514 1008 PLACES OF WORSHIP DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB Anglican Church DB International Community Church Trinity Chapel

2987 8136 2987 4210 2987 7061 3590 8017

REALTORS Headland Homes 2987 2088 Kingsland 2987 2987 Land Master Property 2987 6238 Okay.com 2102 0888 Savills 2987 1919 REMOVALS & RELOCATION Akash Removals FTC Relocations ReloSmart SwiftRelo

2421 8088 2814 1658 2561 3030 2363 4008

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES DB Office Centre DB Lost & Found DB Management The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council Typhoon Signal Enquiries

2238 3388 3651 2345 2238 3601 2259 3422 2835 1473

RESTAURANTS & FOOD DELIVERY The Rink Italian Kitchen

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

Bayview House of Children 6114 2436 DBIS 2987 7331 DBIS Kindergarten 2914 2142 Discovery College 3969 1000 Discovery Mind International Play Centre 2987 8088 Discovery Mind Kindergarten 2987 8088 Discovery Montessori Academy 2812 9206 Dr Bear Education Centre 9685 7856 Elevate English Centre 5445 8228 EpicLand 2441 0098 Funfit 6302 6327 Guidepost Montessori (DB) 2185 6134 HKILA

2416 3198 Jungle School Discovery Day 9095 7250 La Petite Enfance Kindergarten 8191 0813 Mandarin for Munchkins 2480 3909 Mathemagic (home tutoring) 9135 4724 Rigolo comme la vie 5495 8810 SKH Wei Lun Primary School 2987 8608 Treasure House 2987 4217 Woodentots 6108 9131 54

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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.

Bones & Blades 2383 0792 Café Bord de Mer & Lounge 2295 8299 Caffe Pascucci 2591 1426 Cali-Mex 2904 7698 Coffee Academics 2882 2280 Dough Bros 2408 0448 Ebeneezer’s 2987 0036 Epic Foods 2172 6111 Figos Seaside Café 2987 2995 il Bel Paese 2987 0202 Island Café 2987 9311 JOO Korean Grill & Bar 6706 7520 Koh Tomyums 2987 0767 La Creation & Châteraisé 2987 1829 Levain Bakery 2726 4922 Lekker Laa 6857 1620 McDonald’s & McCafe 2987 1033 Moofish by Zak’s 2987 6318 MOOJOO Lifestyle Cafe 5122 5928 Osmanbey Turkish Restaurant 5401 8350 Paisano’s 2673 4445 Peony 2215 0833 PizzaExpress 3164 1340 Shanghai Breeze 2987 7808

LOCAL NUMBERS

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DISCOVERY BAY Subway 2914 0005 Sushi No En 3705 9984 Taste of Thai 2987 2010 The Chippy 2987 8688 The Pier Bar 2520 2166 Three Sheets Marquee Bar 2987 0966 The Rink 3611 8369 Uncle Russ 2840 1188 Viet Bu Tong Kitchen & Bar 2338 8970 Zak’s 2987 6232

Kipmovin 6436 3308 Korea Taekwondo Cheung Do Kwan 9663 8077 Lantau Yacht Club 2987 9591 MGK Fight Club 9303 2996 Tinytots 3488 7724 Yoga Bay 6704 9851 Yogika 6749 7836 YogaUP 6805 4996 Yrock 6180 0817 Zumba with Dionina De Guzman 9317 6793

RETAIL & DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven 2299 1110 Bloom 6117 7653 Bones & Blades Butcher 2383 0683 Bookazine 2987 1373 Circle K 2991 6337 DB Post Office 2987 6046 european touch 2918 0868 felix and mina

2130 7013 Fusion by PARKnSHOP 2987 7486 Garden A rtemis 9137 4833 Gillian Florist 2529 8256 Greenmont Kids 5345 1451 Havana@ DBay 2918 0868 Island Wake 2636 0601 Japan Home Centre 2987 1041 Market Place and IKEA 2947 9092 Nomadic

2987 8460 Open Kitchen 2987 8720 P-Solution 2987 1777 Tai Fat Hardware Store 2987 0789 The Optical House 2987 1368 Toysland 2987 7859 Watson’s Pharmacy 2987 4089 Watson’s Wine 2987 0268

TRANSPORTATION DB Golf Cart Services DB Transportation Services Limousine Rental Wiselink Golf Cart Services

2914 2727 2987 7351 5303 3489 2987 9368

VETERINARY SERVICES & PETS Island Veterinary Services

My Pet Shop Pets Gallery Pet Space Club Ready, Pet, Go! The Dog's Garden

2987 9003 2987 8873 2987 0428 2788 1599 5721 6181 2987 2077

SPORT & RECREATION HK Dragons Football Club Football for girls & boys aged 2.5 years to 14 years. Contact 2987 4274, dragons.hk

WELLBEING & BEAUTY Ingredients of Wellness Mindfulness training for children, teens & their parents and teachers. Offering Mindfulness Matters, Mindfulness in Education (for adults), AMT Mindfulness Teacher Training.

Contact 9048 5425, angie@ingredientsofwellness.com, www.ingredientsofwellness.com

Afflatus Hair Workshop Bay Spa DB Pure Spa Head to Toe Spa By Nailed it Herbal Health Care Hypnotherapist Margaret Liu Nailed It! Salon De Coiffure Sophia Essentials Spa Botanica, Auberge Discovery Bay

2987 0283 9837 0969 9794 0918 2988 1188 2834 7276 5925 3469 2987 2266 2987 4112 2527 0118 2295 8129

Island Dance ISTD Freestyle, ISTD Hip Hop, RAD Ballet, Tap & AcroDance classes at DBRC, 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

BMSE Community Centre 2259 3422 Caissa Chess 6938 7603 Club Siena

2987 7382 Daruma Judo 6244 6093 DBees

9867 9240 DB Ice Rink 2234 0187 DB Pirates 9255 6133 DB Golf Club 2987 7273 DB Recreation Club 2987 7381 DMR 5210 7208 Dream Sports Academy 3462 2626 Embody 6624 8712 EpicLand 2441 0098 EMS Fitness Hong Kong 6200 2463 Gallery Jeeum 9819 7176 Harry Wright International 2575 6279 HK Yoga 6113 6770 Kaisei Ryu Ju Jitsu 5315 0227 Kapuhala Train-in-Space 6101 8434

VIEW THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY @ www.arounddb.com To add your own directory listing box, call the Bay Media office on 2987 0167, or email info@baymedia.com.hk

AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

55

OUT THERE

/

LONG ROAD

So you believe in overnight success?

Wake up to the tedious torture of paying your dues, writes Peter Sherwood PHOTO COURTESY OF Unsplash

T

he Malcolm Gladwell book Outliers discusses success and how none of it is instant; it takes 10,000 hours of intensive practice to achieve master y of complex skills. But no guarantee. (I played tennis for at least 37,000 hours and I’m crap.)

The Beatles shooting to stardom seemed instantaneous. In fac t, they played four to five sets a day in cheap dives to become “an overnight hit”.

Bill Gates for years devoted himself obsessively to programming on one of only two power ful university computers before making US$100 billion. As for journalism, I endured 10,000 hours of rejec tion before I could make a living at it, and enough hard times to make hara-kiri a happy option. Trips to the bottom of the journalism barrel star ted as a repor ter for the Shell Oil staf f magazine in the UK. Not exac tly The New Yorker or Rolling Stone but it beat homelessness.

First up, from London to hideous Colchester in a British Rail carriage smelling of kippers and disinfec tant, to an equally noxious oil storage depot. The place reeked of tedium and generations of lives wasted. Vibrating with ennui I wandered in to meet a cadaverous accountant, and forcing a grin I asked, “So you’ve been here 38 years. Boy, you must have seen a thing or two.” (Pathetically taking the piss, I agree). Silence. Then, “No… not really.” Before self-immolation became the easiest way out, he leapt up with a burst of excitement: “Yes, there was one time… you see number two tank over there? Germans dropped a bomb on it, and it didn’t explode!” Shamelessly I enquired if that was recently. “In the war, in the war!”

My exit that day only led me to somewhere even more desolate and beref t of humanity; a place of

DESTINATION SUCCESS

dank waste and despair: Slough, immor talised in the 1937 Sir John Betjeman poem, Slough: “Come friendly bomb and fall on Slough.” And the setting for the T V comedy The Of fice. Here was a corner of the planet so grim and devoid of nature as to make the Canadian tar sands seem idyllically bucolic.

Inside the company, bodies shambled around lifelessly, and who wouldn’t be a zombie when the most exciting produc t you produce is the black goo that sticks linoleum tiles to the floor.

Overcome with despair I might have jumped from an open window, if there was one. No lush green in this dystopian hollow. The only green was the local pub The Green Man, a grimy 1950s joint with sticky carpet stinking of stale ale and vinegar, and the only “lush” a lunchtime drunk staggering around in the car park. Slough takes bleak to unchar tered depths. The last straw arrived with the of fering of an anaemic pub Scotch Egg to go with the tepid brown water they called beer. I’d had enough and hightailed to the door and a taxi to the station, boarding a train headed in the wrong direc tion. I didn’t care: Suicide City was behind me.

In Hong Kong my first freelance assignment was rewriting a 500 -page Vic torian novel into simplified English from a pokey flat in Wanchai. It wasn’t six weeks in Bermuda, but at least it wasn’t Slough.

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.

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AROUND DB / FEBRUARY 2024

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