Around DB July 2023

Ageing

ON THE BALL

well COMMUNITY | LOCAL INFLUENCERS | LIFESTYLE | PARENTING JULY 2023 | AROUNDDB.COM

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TAKE A FARMING TUTORIAL

Yeah Man, founder of Natural Network, is holding a farming tutorial at DB Community Green Square on July 7. Yeah Man has been promoting eco-living since 2004 when he founded Natural Network and has adopted a self-sustaining rural lifestyle. Participants at this month’s farming tutorial learn how to make an urban scarecrow to protect their crops, while gaining valuable gardening tips. To find out more and enrol, make a beeline for Facebook @DynamicDB.

Happenings STUFF TO

MEET RIGOLO COMME LA VIE’S HEAD OF EARLY YEARS

Early Years Academy Rigolo Comme La Vie opened in DB North in June led by Ella Wightman. Before joining Rigolo Comme La Vie, Ella served as a school supervisor and counsellor for a Montessori and ReggioEmilia inspired school. She has taught at prestigious international schools in Hong Kong including ESF Renaissance College and International College Hong Kong. As a mother of three, she understands how a holistic and trilingual education can provide children the best start to life and prepare them for their studies in primary school.

“Rigolo Comme La Vie specialises in early childhood education, operating over 50 nurseries in Europe since 2004,” Ella opens. “We offer a truly unique curriculum combining a holistic and trilingual approach; our pedagogy integrates the best of the internationally recognised teaching methodologies of Montessori, Reggio-Emilia, Lóczy and Freinet, in a trilingual environment. This enables our young learners from 0 to 6 years old to develop a strong foundation for learning, equipping them with essential life skills such as problem-solving, creativity and critical-thinking. Children engage in a safe and nurturing environment, furthering their learning and development while giving them the space and time they need to grow and build their confidence.”

Ella and her team look forward to welcoming you and your children to Rigolo Comme La Vie for summer camps (from July) and for regular classes (from August). To know more, visit www.rclv.org. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Rigolo Comme La Vie.]

LIVE YOUNG SUMMERFEST

At the Live Young Summerfest on Tai Pak Wan from July 8 to 9, you can expect various family-friendly activities, including inflatables (a wave pool and 8-metre-high slide), a trampoline, large ball pit, beach volleyball and beach table tennis. There’s also a wellness-focused beach carnival which features a children’s playground, a physical fitness challenge for adults and exercise classes for the whole family. To find out more, visit www.visitdiscoverybay.com.

& Events! KNOW IN JULY!

DB PIRATES NEW SEASON SIGN-UP

DB Pirates is on the lookout for new players of all ages and gender to join its hockey, netball, rugby and dragon boat teams. Founded in 2005 and known as DB’s “friendliest sporting club,” DB Pirates continues to go from strength to strength, with teams competing successfully across Hong Kong and beyond. To register for the new season and learn about volunteering and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.dbpirates.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Hank Terrebrood.]

NEXTWAVE BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL

Get set to chill out on Tai Pak Wan from July 29 to 30 at the Nextwave Beach Music Festival. You can expect a strong lineup of more than 20 local and international singers, music groups and DJs, performing everything from pop and rock to hip-hop. Headliners include Jay Fung, Jeffrey Ngai, Eric Chou and Crowd Lu. To add to the fun, there’s a large-scale water park, complete with water slides and toys. To find out more, visit www.visitdiscoverybay.com.

REGISTER TO RUN LANTAU 2 PEAKS OFFLOAD UNWANTED HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

Register today for the CBRE Lantau 2 Peaks! Action Asia Events is offering a 10% discount to Around DB readers who enrol this month using the code VIPBAYMEDIA. In the trail race, being held on October 8, competitors choose to run either the 23km (two peaks) or 15km (half peak) course, solo or in mixed teams of four. The 23km course goes up and over both Lantau and Sunset peaks, with a total elevation gain of almost 1,800m. To get involved, visit www.actionasiaevents.com.

[PHOTO COURTESY OF Action Asia Events.]

Relocating this month or simply having a clear out? Know that you can donate preloved household items to people in need through DB Mothers & Friends. The DB-based social enterprise provides door-to-door collection for everything from furniture and electronic appliances to toys, clothes and books, and then delivers them via social workers to local charities, schools, churches and people in need. To arrange for pick-up, visit Facebook @dbmf.collection.

SHOOTING THE FIVE VENOMS

One World Spirit Association, in collaboration with the Traditional Chinese Archery Alliance, is bringing a Shoot the Five Venoms event to DB this month. According to Chinese folklore, the five venoms (namely the snake, scorpion, centipede, toad and lizard) are awakened by the summer heat that arrives after Tuen Ng Festival. It therefore became customary for archers to put up drawings of the five venoms as archery targets, shooting them to free the world of poison. A re-enactment of this fascinating cultural event will be held in DB this month; scan the QR code for updates on where and when.

LEARN REIKI AT SHAKTI

Make your way to Shakti Healing Circle in Wyndham Street this month to develop your ability to provide “hands-on healing”. Long-time DB resident Stephen Clasper is holding Reiki level 1 and 3 classes, as well as regular Reiki practice evenings at both intermediate and advanced levels. Stephen and his wife Pervin are also holding free, group healing and guided meditation sessions at The Upper House Sky Lounge on July 7, 14 and 21. To find out more and get involved, visit www.shaktihealingcircle.com.

DBIS SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENT

Save the date! DBIS is hosting an open event for prospective Year 12 students and their parents on August 22 at its Sixth Form campus in DB North Plaza. The event, which starts at 6pm, coincides with the launch of the school’s new Sixth Form scholarship programme. Registration is essential. To register, scan the QR code. [PHOTO COURTESY OF DBIS.]

PLASTIC FILM RECYCLING

To get your plastic film recycled, you need to take it to a government-funded Green@Community collection point. We are lucky to have one in DB, open on Tuesdays from 10am to 1pm and 2.30pm to 5.30pm, at the Green Icon@DB. You can also get your polyfoam, liquid cartons (Tetra Paks), disposable coffee cups and fibre food containers, rechargeable batteries, energy saving light bulbs and waste electronics recycled there. Be sure all plastic, paper and metal is clean and dry! To find out more, visit Facebook @Islands Recycling Station.

BE THE CHANGE IN PLASTIC FREE JULY

Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution. DB-based Plastic Free Seas is encouraging everyone to get involved by choosing to refuse single-use plastic – and taking part in a video campaign.

Step 1: Decide what steps you are going to take to reduce plastic waste in Plastic Free July: commit to replacing a single-use plastic item that you use regularly with something reusable, e.g., a paper straw, reusable coffee cup, bamboo toothbrush, silicon ‘ziploc’ bag, cloth produce bag, reusable razor, refillable shampoo/ soap.

Step 2: Take a short video, up to 30 seconds, in vertical orientation. Introduce yourself, say where you live and what change you are making in Plastic Free July. Be sure to show the item you are switching to.

Step 3: Share your video by email to info@plasticfreeseas.org or WhatsApp to 6206 8815. Plastic Free Seas will upload all videos received to social media from now until the end of July.

Visit www.plasticfreeseas.org to find out more.

Out & About!

WHAT YOU'VE BEEN UP TO!

DBFC RUNNERS-UP AT HKFC CITI SOCCER SEVENS

Sponsored by a number of DB residents to enter the Masters section of the HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens 2023 as Ampcontrol Discovery Bay, DBFC players made it to the final on May 28, where they were narrowly beaten by Wallsend Boys Club. It was neck and neck (1~1) after the two 10-minute halves of regulation time for seven-aside, and Wallsend Boys Club went on to secure the title with a golden goal in the four-minute, four-aside play-off. In 2018, DBFC players won the Masters Cup and in 2017 and 2019, they were runners-up for the Masters Plate. To find out more, visit www.discoverybayfc.com. [PHOTOS BY Jean-Luc Michel Karlin & courtesy of HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens.]

ON A DISCOVERY HIKE

On May 28, wildlife photographer James Kwok led a 7-kilometre hike from Mui Wo Pier to Discovery Bay via the Trappist Monastery. During the walk, James shared tips on bird-watching and tracking different species, as well as techniques for capturing natural beauty and ecology through photography. Each participant received a copy of A Breath of Discovery Nature Guidebook which features four stunning, Instagramready DB hikes. You can download a digital copy of A Breath of Discovery at www.visitdiscoverybay.com.

[PHOTOS COURTESY OF HKR.]

MAKING KOKEDAMA

On June 3, Akin Leung, the founder of Green Capsule, hosted a Kokedama workshop at Community Green Square. The residents who attended had the opportunity to learn about this fascinating, Japanese garden-art technique and put their green thumbs to use.

[PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com.]

LAUNCHING INALIFE

On June 16, DB dad Nicholas Worley hosted a launch party at Three Sheets for Inalife, his innovative new digital family legacy platform. Inalife allows users to do three things: connect with family members on a safe and secure interactive family tree, share personal memories on a personal profile page for loved ones now and in the future to learn about them, and record time-delayed messages for loved ones to receive in the future. In creating the platform (website and mobile app) Nick wants to make sure family members will always be remembered by loved ones and descendants. [PHOTOS BY Louise Machin Photography.]

AT THE DRAGON BOAT WATER PARADE OF TAI O

The Dragon Boat Water Parade of Tai O is an annual highlight of the Tuen Ng Festival; a century-old religious ritual aimed at pacifying the water ghosts and making Tai O a safe place to live. In the early morning of June 22, deity statues from four local temples were put on sacred sampans and towed by dragon boat in a parade through the Tai O waterways. Villagers burnt paper offerings and sprinkled the water with ‘auspicious’ joss paper as the deities passed by. After the parade, local fishermen held a friendly dragon boat race. [PHOTOS BY Beatrix Malan - www.astcollective.com.]

GET SET FOR A FUN-TASTIC SUMMER IN DISCOVERY BAY!

A beach carnival, a music festival and a regional ice-skating competition – aren’t you glad you decided to stay home for at least some of the long vac?

Mark your calendars for a goodie bag of fun-tastic things to do right here in Discovery Bay over the summer. The first, LIVE YOUNG SUMMERFEST, an outdoor carnival on Tai Pak Beach, runs from July 8 to 9. Activities include an 8-metre-high slide, a large ball pit, beach pong, beach volleyball and more.

is returning to Hong Kong after 22 years, with over 1,700 figure skaters and teams participating. Sanctioned by Ice Skating Institute Asia (ISIAsia), the event is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see top skaters from across the region perform. Participating regions include China, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines.

LIVE YOUNG SUMMERFEST is all about staying youthful and having fun. Programme highlights include family-friendly fitness classes, a playground for children and a physical fitness challenge for adults.

From July 29 to 30, it’s time to chill out on Tai Pak Beach at the Nextwave Beach Music Festival, brought to DB by Yiu Wing Culture and Nextwave Yachting. You can expect a strong lineup of more than 20 local and international singers, music groups and DJs, performing everything from pop and rock to hiphop. Headliners include Jay Fung, Jeffrey Ngai, Eric Chou and Crowd Lu.

Nextwave Beach Music Festival also provides a large-scale water park, complete with water slides and toys, plus a series of art performances and lavish food and wine tastings.

Next on your agenda this summer is Skate Asia 2023, running from August 7 to 15 at DB Ice Rink. The world’s largest recreational skating competition

Last but not least, it’s time to take advantage of this year’s exciting summer sales redemption! Upon sameday spending of HK$600 or above* at designated DB stores, you can redeem a limited-edition, summerthemed shopping bag and pencil set. So that’s you prepped for a fun-tastic summer!

To find out more, head to www.visitdiscoverybay.com

The Player! ON THE BALL

Trading software pro by day, footballer by night, or at least weekends, Matija Maretic would bask in the glow of backstopping his DBFC team to the final of the HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens – if it didn’t ache so much.

Elizabeth Kerr reports

Matija Maretic has a dad bod. That applies to the 46-year-old father of two (to a daughter, 11, and a son, three) literally and figuratively. The native of Croatia credits his ability to play in May’s HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens to the HIIT workout group DB Dad Bods keeping him fit during COVID, as well as able to be home by 7am to perform dad duties.

“That started during the pandemic when gyms were closed. It was difficult to do with the mask on, but a couple of guys managed to organise it and keep it going,” he begins. “It’s five minutes from my house on the beach. I do the 6am so I can be home to get the kids to school. I think that helps keep me in shape.”

Matija is sitting in a Central eatery at lunchtime in early June, looking tanned and youthful – just now recovered from his May 26 to 28 Soccer Sevens ordeal.

“I was going to retire three years ago, I was already 43, but this year…” he trails off with a shrug. Out of town on business, he missed try-outs for this year’s tournament but, as a veteran, Discovery Bay Football Club (DBFC) coach Tim Bredbury cut him some slack and let him try-out late. He made the cut, but the central defender had to be content with playing wing as a back-up. “There’s a huge Brazilian guy and a huge Nigerian guy, both 10 years younger than me, in that spot now,” he says with a resigned laugh.

As fate would have it, the team’s semi-pro goalkeeper got slapped with a three-game suspension by the Football Association two days before the tournament. “So Tim calls me up those two days before and says, ‘Matija, we have a problem. We just lost our keeper

and I have no time to find another one. Would you be willing to step in?’ The last time I played keep I was 15.” Serendipity. Matija backstopped Ampcontrol Discovery Bay – aka the DBFC Masters – to the final.

DAD WITH A DAY JOB

Football is in Matija’s blood – he’s quick to point out Croatia’s stellar World Cup performances over the last five tournaments – and he’s been playing since he was a kid in Pula, across the water from Venice. It’s a hobby, but he still needs it to be a challenge, which is why he gravitated to the DBFC almost as soon as he and his wife landed in Hong Kong seven years ago, and DB about six months after that.

“When we moved to Hong Kong our daughter was two, and we lived in Central for a bit,” he says with a wave. “But with the pushchair and all the gear and the people, we thought, ‘Oh my god, this is a nightmare’. Then a friend invited us for a barbecue in DB, and we were all, ‘Oooh, we could live here’. Central is not kid-friendly. Here, it’s easy for kids to get to school; my daughter can go by herself. It’s much more convenient and very international.”

The road to Hong Kong was circuitous. Matija left Croatia in 1994 for Carthage College to study physics and mathematics in the United States, and then spent five years in Milan. “I started a company, Marvelsoft, software development for financial markets, that was eventually bought by a French firm, which is why I moved to Paris.” He was there for 12 years before the company opened a Hong Kong office for its Asian operations.

PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com & courtesy of HKFC Citi Soccer Sevens

Matija isn’t a pure developer, and he’s not a pure researcher; lab work doesn’t appeal to him the way real application of his software does. “I didn’t want to do any post-grad studies either,” he says with a grin. “I tried a summer internship but realised it was not for me. Locked up in a lab all day? No. I need people around me.”

PLAYER WITH THE DBFC MASTERS

Which is what makes the DBFC (www.discoverybayfc.com) a nice fit too. Matija had to scale back playing time in Paris when it became too much of a commitment with a newborn (at the time), but the easier going, very international DBFC format suits him just fine.

“We play seven-a-side, which is actually a 25-year-old tradition in DB, going back to when they were building the airport. There was a French and British team who played each other, now it’s more international. We play Thursday nights and we don’t talk when we have a beer after. Black shirts on one side of the pub, white on the other. It’s very competitive,” he finishes with a laugh.

The annual two-tiered Soccer Sevens this year featured a main section, with pro teams from Fulham, Aston Villa and Leicester City alongside those from Singapore Football Club, Yau Yee League and, of course, the Hong Kong Football Club (HKFC). The Masters teams – for players over 35 – included the HKFC, Rio Cricket Athletic Association, the title sponsor Citi All Stars and Ampcontrol Discovery Bay.

Matija points out that this was the DBFC Masters’ tenth go at the Soccer Sevens, and that they have an excellent track record. In 2018, DBFC players won the Masters Cup and in 2017 and 2019, they were runnersup for the Masters Plate. This year, the team secured sponsorship from a group of fellow DB residents to enter the tournament as Ampcontrol Discovery Bay, and until the final on the Sunday, they only allowed one goal in five games.

Though Matija earned some football cred in 2018 when he stopped a penalty by former Aston Villa striker Carlton Cole, he chalks his 2023 success up to his defence. “I think Tim told them, ‘Matija’s not a keeper. You better protect him’. And they did.”

With the tournament a wrap for another year – Wallsend Boys Club ultimately beat the DBFC in the final with a golden goal in the play-off – Matija can relax for the summer. He’s looking forward to six weeks in Europe – a work trip back to Milan followed by a vacation with his family when they go meet him. It will be one of their first trips since COVID put the kibosh on travelling. Not that Matija noticed. His son was born in 2020, so he had intended to spend more time at home anyway.

The vacation will also give Matija time to consider 2024’s Soccer Sevens. Will he be back? “In a week I lost three kilos. I was exhausted, and it took me four days

to get back to normal. And it was super-hot. I vowed I’d never do it again,” he says with a chuckle and a sigh. “But next year Tim’s going to call me and ask me to come for a try-out and I’m going to say, ‘Why not?’ It just depends on whether or not I keep in shape.” That’s what the DB Dad Bods are for.

"WE PLAY SEVEN-A-SIDE, WHICH IS ACTUALLY A 25YEAR-OLD TRADITION IN DB.

THERE WAS A FRENCH AND BRITISH TEAM WHO PLAYED EACH OTHER, NOW IT’S MORE INTERNATIONAL - Matija Maretic

MATIJA IN GOAL AT THE HKFC CITI SOCCER SEVENS

DISCOVERY BAY

MINI MAKERS | 3 - 7 JULY, 2023

2 - 6 YEARS

Sort, stack, stick, or sew, this camp is all about creativity and fun! The dual-language program in English and Mandarin is ideal for children interested in DIY and crafting.

1-06, 1/F, 92 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay North

Guidepost Summer Camps are also available at other regions:

2-6 years July 4 to August 26

by weekly enrolment

Situated within the AYANA Estate, children will experience a rich array of blended activities and enjoy daily engagement with nature.

FOR MORE DETAILS:

Summer Camps are also available at our 5 other locations: Chai Wan l Clearwater Bay l Causeway Bay l Kennedy Town l Pok Fu Lam

Elderly Fun Days! SENIOR CIRCLE

With a mission to build a harmonious community based on mutual respect, DB management makes the wellbeing of elderly residents a priority.

Ray Au reports

One of the common grumbles one hears from elderly people is that they become invisible as they grow older; unseen and unheard by all but their immediate family. This may be true in many communities across the world but it’s definitely not the case in DB, where management works hard to help them stay socially connected and physically active.

The Elderly Fun Days – two half-day gatherings per week, co-organised by City Management and Love.Together@DB – are a case in point. Held every Tuesday and Thursday morning at DB Multi-Purpose Hall, the fun days are designed to encourage aged members of the community to get together and enjoy a range of activities, such as early morning exercise, table tennis, tea-sharing, tai chi and mahjong (gambling is prohibited!).

“Our aim with the Elderly Fun Days is multi-faceted: to foster a sense of belonging within the DB community, to help residents build relationships through shared activities, to promote senior citizens’ wellbeing and to celebrate DB’s multicultural demographic,” says Ernest Lee, Assistant Director of Discovery Bay Services Management Ltd.

City Management is well aware how social isolation, lack of physical activity and poor diet can negatively impact the elderly. For this reason, the Elderly Fun Days prioritise participants’ physical (and mental) health through the activities on offer. Regular talks on useful topics like health, home safety and crime prevention are provided to keep participants’ minds active. The City Management team shares fresh vegetables from its farmland with the retirees to encourage healthy eating. And, in addition to the twice weekly gatherings, City Management organises large-scale parties for participants, giving them the opportunity to meet up and socialise on special occasions like Christmas and Chinese New Year.

“Since 2014, the City Owners Committee has paid particular attention to elderly residents within the community, setting up occasional gatherings for them with games and health talks,” Ernest explains. “The variety of activities was increased gradually, and in 2016, we began holding weekly gatherings. Under the City Owners Committee, a DB Senior Citizens Group was also formed for long-term planning; our motto is to build a harmonious community based on mutual respect.”

The Elderly Fun Days are now held twice weekly and regularly attended by some 280 members, most of whom are retired residents. “In 2018, due to its increasing popularity, the group was named 長樂會 (direct translation: long-lasting, happy group) with a mission to promote harmony and mutual respect amongst members,” Ernest says. “We are delighted to help elderly residents enjoy their lives through different kinds of activities specifically tailored for them.”

Supported by Love.Together@DB, the Elderly Fun Days are managed by City Management staff alongside a group of local volunteers. Living in a well-connected community is important for people’s happiness, and the idea is to promote the wellbeing of all those involved – both the carers and those being cared for. The people who volunteer have the opportunity to give of themselves, connect with other residents and have fun; the elderly participants reap the benefits, socialising not only with their peers but also with the carers and organisers. It’s a win-win.

The efforts of all those involved have been applauded by relevant local bodies. In 2021, DB was recognised as an Age-Friendly Housing Estate by Hong Kong Jockey Club and Hong Kong Association of Gerontology. And we can be sure that the support provided is ongoing.

“The City Management and Love.Together@DB teams, who take care of the senior citizens and organise the various activities, will continue to strive for the betterment of all those in the group,” Ernest concludes.

PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com

MAGGIE CHAN, CONVENOR OF THE SENIOR CITIZENS GROUP, WITH A FUN DAY PARTICIPANT

We are delighted to help elderly residents enjoy their lives through different kinds of activities specifically tailored for them. The City Management and Love.Together@DB teams will continue to strive for the betterment of all those in the group

CITY MANAGEMENT STAFF

PLAYING TABLE TENNIS

ERNEST LEE, ASSISTANT

DIRECTOR

OF DISCOVERY BAY SERVICES MANAGEMENT LTD, WITH DR. FRANCIS CHIU, COC CHAIRMAN

GAMES OF RUMMIKUB

A LITTLE GENTLE EXERCISE

Healthy Ageing Tips!

We want our minds and bodies to remain healthy and active well into old age. Here’s what the National Institute on Ageing recommends

Changes to the body and brain are normal as we age, and it’s natural for us to start prioritising our health. The good news is that adopting and maintaining a few key behaviours can help older adults live longer, healthier lives.

EXERCISE REGULARLY

There are lots of reasons to make physical activity a part of daily life. Exercise can help reduce levels of stress and anxiety, improve balance and lower risk of falls, enhance sleep and decrease feelings of depression. Most importantly, people who exercise regularly not only live longer, but may also live better — meaning they enjoy more years of life with less pain or disability.

Consult your doctor or a personal trainer about how much activity you can and should be doing and brainstorm ways to work it into your daily life. Where possible, aim for a mix of activities, including aerobics, strength training, balance and flexibility. This could include walking around the neighbourhood, lifting weights, or stretching. Consider sharing your favourite activities with a friend so that you have an “exercise buddy” … or join an age-appropriate fitness class.

REMAIN SOCIALLY INVOLVED

As people age, they often find themselves spending more time alone. Factors like poor health, the death of a partner and caring for a loved one can all lead to feelings of social disconnect. Increased isolation and loneliness are associated with higher risks for health problems, such as depression, heart disease and cognitive decline. The solution? Find ways to stay socially connected.

Look for opportunities to connect with friends and loved ones on a daily basis, especially if you live alone. If those closest to you live overseas, schedule biweekly phone calls or video chats. Consider widening your social circle by seeking out others with shared interests, such as through a volunteer organisation, book club or walking group.

KEEP YOUR MIND ACTIVE

Your brain is similar to a muscle — you need to use it or lose it. There are many things that you can do to keep your brain in shape, such as doing crossword puzzles or Sudoku, reading, playing cards or putting together a jigsaw puzzle. Consider it cross-training

your brain. Incorporate different types of activities to increase the effectiveness.

Most healthcare teams don’t recommend the paid brain-training programmes available. These programmes often overpromise results or focus on memorisation skills that aren’t useful in everyday life. Your brain can get just as good of a workout through reading or challenging yourself with puzzles. And, don’t watch too much TV – it’s a passive activity that does little to stimulate your brain.

EAT HEALTHILY

Healthy eating is an important part of healthy ageing. Having a healthy diet can help support muscles and strengthen bones, which can help with balance and independence. A nutritious diet, involving a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins, can also help boost immunity and lower the risk of certain health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, type 2 diabetes, stroke and some cancers.

If you feel your eating habits fall short, talk with a doctor or dietician about your diet and any vitamin and mineral supplements you may need. Gen up on healthy eating options like the Mediterranean diet, and pick out some new health-orientated cookbooks. Take a fresh look at some of your favourite, go-to recipes – the ones loaded with unhealthy fats and sugars – and find ways to make them healthier, for example by substituting olive oil for butter.

SCHEDULE REGULAR CHECK-UPS

It’s important for older people in particular to have regular health exams and medical screenings. Checking in with doctors annually, and possibly more often, depending on overall health, may help reduce risk factors for disease such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Regular check-ups can also help catch concerns early and improve the chances for effective treatment.

It can be challenging to stay on top of appointments and medications, so here are some easy hacks. Schedule upcoming appointments on a calendar, so you can keep track. Ask a friend or family member to go with you on an important hospital visit to make notes. Maintain a current list of your medications, including both prescription and over-the-counter medications and any supplements, and share this list with your healthcare providers.

Happy Campers! HOLIDAY WELL SPENT

At the best summer camps learning is stirred into play. There’s no better place for children to have fun, while developing new skills and stepping out of their comfort zones

REPORTING BY Suveera Sharma & Samantha Wong PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels

f “holiday” was a person, he would surely be the most loved one on earth. He would be fun, sometimes engaging and sometimes lazy, but always welcome. For adults and kids alike, a break from the regular monotony of life is something to look forward to. Holidays bring images of excited kids and slow-paced, lazy afternoons, of reunions and celebrations with loved ones, and of distant or near travel.

That said, many of us DB families choose not to travel out, preferring to stay in the comfort of our homes for at least some of the summer holiday. And as much as we love the chatter and liveliness of children in the house, it’s sometimes difficult to keep them engaged constructively. The summer break should not mean a complete end to the structured day… which is where holiday camps come in.

PRIORITISING FUN

With all the different summer activities on offer across DB and Lantau, how do you decide which will benefit your child the most? First off, in choosing a summer camp for your children – with your children if they are old enough – making sure they are going to have lots of fun should be a first priority. And that at least should be easy enough to achieve. No matter which type of camp you choose, your kids will be given the opportunity to be busy and social. Hopefully too, away from the pressures and social hierarchies of school, they’ll be able to make new friends and, with the guidance of adult mentors, discover new things about themselves.

Generally speaking, then, it’s safe to say that summer camp is going to be a fun experience for children but this gets you no closer to deciding on a specific course for them. Looked at one way the decision is simple. Sign them up for an activity they already enjoy and give them the chance to focus on it, and get seriously good at it.

Game over, you might say, job done. But have you thought about alternatives? You might be tempted to go the other way… sign your kids up for a course in something new and unexpected, something that will expand their horizons. Let’s say your daughter is a homebody – constantly either hardwired to the computer or glued to the TV. Any camp you choose will encourage her to unplug and get social but one that’s based outdoors could be the way to go. Signing her up for a sports course would see her being physically active, spending time outdoors and connecting with nature in some way. It would also give her an opportunity to escape the virtual and interact with real people and play games, using more than just her thumbs.

THE SUMMER BREAK SHOULD NOT MEAN A COMPLETE END TO THE STRUCTURED DAY… WHICH IS WHERE HOLIDAY CAMPS COME IN

To keep things interesting, you might also consider enrolling your kids in a classroom-based camp. You’ll have read about the “summer slide”, where grade points are lost because of lack of tuition over the holidays, and you’ll want to avoid it. There’s no reason to think that an educational camp will be boring – these specialised, teacher-led summer courses promise to make learning and problemsolving fun and interactive.

ENHANCING SOCIAL SKILLS

It is a well-known fact that children learn best when they are in a group, learning together. Group learning also gives them the opportunity to hone their social skills, which will have a lifelong impact on their relationships and personalities. Holiday camps provide a perfect environment for children to intermingle and learn.

At camp, children learn to work with each other and their adult mentors, outside of the classroom and family unit. In their time away from home, they are encouraged to take responsibility for everything from their belongings to their emotions. While

building new friendships, they learn to navigate through group dynamics, manage conflict and accept guidance.

Summer camp can also teach kids how to empathise. Placed in a new environment with new people, they learn to value the kindnesses of others and they begin to give of themselves in return. In challenging situations, they learn to be sensitive and to support friends who are struggling.

IT’S GOOD TO KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR WEIGHT BUT WHAT ABOUT THOSE MAGIC WORDS ‘EVERYTHING IN MODERATION?'

Children learn that to succeed, they must work together as part of a team. Rather than thinking only of themselves, they begin to see themselves as part of a community, and with this comes a valuable sense of acceptance and belonging. Summer camps teach kids about team spirit and cooperation; they learn how to work with each other and deliver results, and they learn to play within the rules. With this in mind, it’s well worth considering the benefits of a mixed age-group camp, where the older kids are asked to take care of the younger ones and help them with complicated tasks. While this teaches the older children responsibility, the youngsters also benefit because they are encouraged to go beyond their abilities and push their limits a bit.

BROADENING HORIZONS

Learning new skills and stepping out of your comfort zone always broadens your horizon and opens new avenues. It is a known fact that all top achievers are lifelong learners. To constantly look for new insights and ideas, and keep growing is the biggest and most important life lesson that we can teach our kids. Exposing them to novelty, as we do at summer camp, and challenging them physically and mentally, will shape them to the best of their potential.

By putting themselves out there, having new experiences and trying new things, kids begin to understand what it takes to succeed in life. They develop decision-making skills to get themselves through challenging situations, and they grow in confidence and flexibility.

By tackling an activity that pushes them outside their comfort zone, children come away with a stronger sense of personal pride and self-reliance. As they progress through a course, their confidence builds and they accomplish tasks that at first seemed impossible. All this builds strength of character, courage and determination. Children learn discipline, problem solving and perseverance, which are much needed skills in life.

The best summer camps challenge kids every day. They come home tired from all the physical and mental activity and ready for a full meal and bed. They wake up looking forward to the day ahead and to giving it their best shot. Summer camp provides a carefree environment where kids work on ideas and learn to be responsible for their actions; it gives children a sense of purpose, hope and direction.

The benefits of holiday camps are indeed many. Fortunately, we live in a community which has a reputation for being family friendly. There are innumerable options for kids to stay close to nature and be outdoors or stay indoors and perhaps try something different. No matter which camp you choose for your children, it is important to challenge them. If you push them to the outer boundaries of their abilities, you can experience the joy as you watch their faces light up when they succeed.

As John A. Shedd wrote back in 1928, “A ship in the harbour is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.”

SUMMER CAMPS TEACH KIDS ABOUT TEAM SPIRIT AND COOPERATION

Camps ART

Chess

ELEANOR MCCOLL STUDIO

www.eleanormccoll.com

Eleanor McColl and her team have a series of fabulous art camps lined up at her DB studio this summer aimed at getting kids out of the heat and discovering their creative side. Choose from Super Sculpture, Mixed Media Magic, HK Skyline and Watercolour World. Courses last 4 days from Monday to Thursday, 10am-12pm and are suitable for kids aged 6-12 years.

Tel: 9048 1582

Email: team@eleanormccoll.com

CAISSA HONG KONG CHESS CLUB

www.caissahk.org

Caissa Hong Kong Chess Club’s 5-day summer camps run from July 3 to August 18 at DB North Plaza. Children of all levels, kindergarten-age and up can join. The fun yet challenging threehour morning sessions are conducted by Caissa’s World Chess Federation licensed coaches, and are an excellent way for kids to work on tactics, strategy, calculation and gameplay.

Tel: 6938 7603

Email: contact@caissahk.com

DANCE FOR JOY

www.danceforjoyhk.com

Held at studios in Tung Chung and Causeway Bay, Dance for Joy’s summer programme comprises fun, energising performing arts classes for kids aged 2 and up. Each week, from July 3 to August 26, students learn choreography and technique while developing their understanding of rhythm, body awareness and self-expression. Campers aged 4 and up can apply to perform on July 29 at AIA Central Harbourfront and August 19 at K11 Musea.

Tel: 9264 8597 (Tung Chung), 9346 4478 (Causeway Bay)

Email: info@danceforjoyhk.com

ARK EDEN

www.arkedenonlantau.org

Ark Eden’s eco-based summer camps focus on nurturing children’s love of the outdoors and building their confidence and skills through play. The camps are designed for kids aged 5 to 11 years, and run from July 3 to August 31 on a beautiful hillside in Mui Wo. There are different nature-based themes each day; activities include waterfall hikes, tree climbing, organic farming, nature crafts, river play, storytelling, campfires, water fights and wild cooking.

Tel: 2988 5355

Email: info@arkedenonlantau.org

FRIENDLY RIDES & GUIDES

www.friendlyridesandguides.com

Friendly Rides & Guides’ summer camps offer children aged 7 and up an exciting experience adventuring around Lantau. Designed for beginner to intermediate riders, the camps cover all of the fundamental skills for kids to safely progress and have fun on the trails. Camps, running from June 19 to August 25, are filled with cycling adventures, exploring and progressive skills lessons. Pick-up and dropoff are available in Tung Chung.

Tel: 5117 0051

Email: friendlyridesandguides@gmail.com

LEARN WITH DRAGONFLY

www.learnwithdragonfly.com

Learn with Dragonfly is providing an actionpacked Summer Adventure Camp for children aged 7 to 11 years. Kids get to experience many different rock- and water-based outdoor activities such as waterfall canyoning, standup paddleboarding, snorkeling, kayaking and raft building. The camp runs from July 3 to August 11. Two-day, three-day and five-day options are available in Mui Wo and Sai Kung. Enrol using the code @AroundDB100 to enjoy a HK$100 discount.

WhatsApp: 5345 7235

Tel: 2111 8917

Email: enquiries@learnwithdragonfly.com

TREASURE ISLAND

www.treasureislandhk.com

Treasure Island’s 5-day summer adventure camps run through August 25 in Pui O. The camps are divided into three categories: Kids Adventure for 5- to 9-year-olds; and Teen Extreme which splits into two age groups: 9 to 13 years and 13 to 17 years. From hiking and swimming to raft-building, kids get to experience a wide range of outdoor pursuits, while developing eco-awareness and leadership skills.

Tel: 5236 7016

Email: inquiries@treasureislandhk.com

FITNESS

IN MOTION

www.fitnessinmotionhk.com

Fitness in Motion is an award-winning studio nominated as one of the leading local martial arts gyms of 2021. This year, the studio is running a summer camp for children aged 4 to 13 years. From July 3 to August 25, kids get to experience different activities such as boxing, Zumba, Muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, shuffling and Latin Dance. Fitness in Motion is located at T-Bay by the Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung.

WhatsApp: 4660 9728

Tel: 2390 2802

Email: info@fitnessinmotionhk.com

FAUST

www.faustworld.com

Faust has three different week-long Holiday Programmes available in various locations across Hong Kong: Summer Theatre (ages 3 to 15), Creative Writing (ages 6 to 14) and Musical Theatre (ages 8 to 15). There are also drop-in Saturday Special Workshops for kids aged 5 to 15 years, covering a variety of specialised topics, including Stage Fighting and Summer Storytime. Summer Theatre workshops are available in DB from July 10 to 14 for kids aged 4 to 12 years. Enjoy a 15% Friends Together discount when you register 3 or more kids at the same time.

Tel: 2547 9114

Email: info@faustworld.com

Now chess for Kindergarten pupils Thursday and Fridays!

DMR School of Ballet

Enrol now for September 2023

Enrol now for our new academic year, starting in September 2023 Classes are filling up fast so don't miss out on your chance to dance!

Annual Performance

Each year, DMR Dancers showcase their hard work, passion and fun costumes in our annual performance We can't wait till the next one!

Hong Kong Disneyland

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

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!

NEXT GENERATION ACCOUNTANTS IN DISCOVERY BAY

With a global presence and a local office right here in Discovery Bay, Monx offers a unique blend of expertise and personalised service that sets us apart from the rest. So, why is Monx special and why should we be your go-to firm for accounting and tax services?

OUR COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE lies in our ability to provide global services at local prices.

With offices spanning the globe, we have an in-depth understanding of international accounting standards and tax regulations. This allows us to effectively assist clients with their international tax planning and compliance requirements, while also helping them achieve their global expansion goals. Whether you are a multinational corporation expanding your operations or an individual with overseas investments, we have the knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of the global financial landscape, all while offering competitive pricing tailored to the local market.

TRADITIONAL MEETS THE FUTURE. At Monx, we go beyond the traditional role of an accounting and tax firm. We believe in nurturing and mentoring companies, especially those in the DB community, exposing them to the best practices in the industry, revolutionary cloud-software solutions to improve operations and much more.

Our local presence and DB team are testament to our commitment to the community. We have already established strong relationships with more than 35 clients in the area, and our client base continues to grow steadily.

SPECIFIC NEEDS OF DB CLIENTS. We have a multicultural team of dedicated experts who are fluent in over 10 different languages, including

Italian, Spanish, French, Cantonese and Mandarin, which allows us to serve you in the language of your choice! This is especially important due to the diversity in DB.

In DB people come and go, and so we offer tailored services such as company incorporations, visa consultancy for Hong Kong and abroad, tax services and MPF declaration and withdrawals for those just arriving, or planning to leave.

Our physical presence in DB ensures that our clients have convenient access to our services. We believe in building personal and responsive relationships with our clients, and having a local office allows us to do just that!

BEYOND NUMBERS. At Monx, we understand that accounting and tax services are not just about numbers, they are about people and their goals. We are passionate about helping our clients succeed, and we take pride in the role we play in their journey. When you choose Monx as your accounting and tax partner, you can expect a team of dedicated professionals who will go above and beyond to understand your unique needs and provide tailored solutions. Not only that, all Monx clients receive complimentary mentorship for purpose-driven and early-stage entrepreneurship.

Monx is more than just an accounting and tax firm. We are your trusted partner, offering global expertise at local prices. Our commitment to nurturing companies and supporting entrepreneurs sets us apart. We are here to serve the DB community and help businesses and individuals thrive. Choose Monx for all your accounting and tax needs, and experience the difference of having a true partner by your side.

Monx takes pride in being your trusted partner for all your accounting and tax needs

A Little Bit of Trivia! BEER QUIZ

LKF’s two-day Beer and Music Fest is just around the corner. So, to get into the spirit, try this month’s quiz

BY Kayli Liebenberg PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels

1. How many lions are there on the Tsingtao label?

A. Eight

B. Four

C. Two

2. What is the most common cereal grain used to make beer?

A. Wheat

B. Barley

C. Buckwheat

3. Which lager is famous for the slogan “probably the best lager in the world”?

A. Carlsberg

B. Budweiser Budvar

C. Brooklyn Lager

4. When was beer invented?

A. 4,000 BC

B. 2,000 BC

C. 1618

5. Which country is Heineken from?

A. The Netherlands

B. Germany

C. Sweden

6. When is International Beer Day?

A. June 6

B. August 5

C. December 12

7. Which nationality drinks the most beer?

A. Croatians

B. Chinese

C. Americans

8. Where is the world’s oldest brewery located (since 1040)?

A. California

B. Dublin

C. Bavaria

9. Which craft beer is Hong Kong’s Black Kite Brewery known for?

A. Glider Golden Ale

B. Lamma Island Pale Ale

C. Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA

10. What are the four main ingredients in most types of beer?

A. Hops, yeast, rye and barley

B. Molasses, yeast, malt and water

C. Yeast, hops, malt and water

11. The first beer bottle was sold in which year?

A. 1800

B. 1850

C. 1900

12. What colour is Guinness?

A. Black

B. Brown

C. Yellow

13. What is the best way to remove the foam layer on top of a beer glass?

A. Sprinkle salt on it

B. Shake the glass

C. Stick your fingers into it

14. What do labeorphilists collect?

A. Beer bottles

B. Books about beer

C. Beer bottle openers

15. Beer cans were first introduced in which year?

A. 1950

B. 1925

C. 1900

16. What is beer’s average ABV (alcohol by volume)?

A. 2% to 4%

B. 4% to 6%

C. 6% to 8%

17. What type of dog is on the label of Red Dog beer?

A. Alsatian

B. Bulldog

C. Spaniel

18. What type of beer is Stella Artois?

A. Witbier

B. Pilsner

C. Stout

19. Which country is Tiger Beer from?

A. Malaysia

B. Singapore

C. Thailand

20. Beer contains ample amounts of which vitamin?

A. Vitamin A

B. Vitamin B

C. Vitamin C

You can check your score at www.arounddb.com>20questions>beer-quiz

THE UNIQUE APPEAL OF DB LIVING

Insights from Thorsten Allenstein , manager of OKAY.com in Discovery Bay

Ask realtor Thorsten Allenstein, manager of OKAY.com in Discovery Bay, what makes the resort such a unique and desirable place to live, and he focuses first on the strong sense of community. “Many people think of DB as a transient society but in fact there are many long-term residents, who have been living here for years. DB is safe, convenient – 25 minutes to Central – and a real haven for outdoor enthusiasts. On top of that, it’s family friendly with excellent schools, like Discovery Bay International School, ESF Discovery College and Discovery Montessori School.”

All this translates into high demand and high prices for homes. “Yields in DB are double those on Hong Kong-side, so it’s a great market for investors and home seekers alike,” Thorsten says. “After prices deflating for the last two years, we seem to have reached a plateau and expect to see price increases in the second half of the year.”

In DB since 2003, Thorsten is in a good position to reflect on changes in the local market, and anticipate trends. “We are seeing shifts in buyer preferences: more and more locals and mixed couples from Hong Kong Island and Kowloon are interested in DB. Importantly too, due to the population cap of 25,000 imposed by the Government on the developer, we foresee a strong increase in prices in the coming years.”

So what advice would Thorsten give to someone who is considering buying or selling a home in DB? “For sellers: find an agent/ agency who has the potential to market the property beyond the borders of Hong Kong. For buyers: work with an experienced real estate professional, like OKAY.com, who has indepth knowledge of the local market.”

Thorsten is quick to point out that his team of expert realtors takes pride in working with clients to find homes that satisfy their needs and desires. “We ask our clients detailed questions about their lifestyle, preferences and budget, while also providing information about the area’s history, culture and amenities. We use our knowledge of the local market and community to guide our clients to find the best fit.”

Just as importantly, OKAY.com’s DB team plays its part in fostering a sense of community and helping new residents feel welcome and integrated. “We make a point of connecting clients with local resources and events, and introducing them to their neighbours – other residents that we have relocated to DB,” Thorsten explains. “We organise events like BBQs in the common areas to welcome newcomers, and we join them in communitybuilding activities like beach clean-ups and dragon boat racing. All this helps our clients settle in faster and establish immediate connections.”

OKAY.com

The award-winning real estate agency that focuses on accurate property listings, with property agents dedicated to helping, not hard-selling.

Kindle 2022

Top Tips! GET ON BOARD

A day out on the water, filled with friendship, food and floaties… life really doesn’t get much better. Question is, will you opt for a cruise on a luxury yacht or a classic junk trip?

Hong Kong is renowned for its boat trips and rightly so. A day on the water is a unique opportunity to kickback and take it easy in the company of family and friends. You can work on your tan, get your water-sports adrenalin fix, play beer pong, swim out to a remote island and/ or stop off at a favourite beachside restaurant for lunch. Peak season is June to November but thanks to the climate, you can charter a yacht or hire a junk year-round.

There are countless providers across Hong Kong, all offering a variety of packages for both day and night trips. The best are all about flexibility when it comes to event planning. Some occasions call for a comprehensive package where everything is taken care of – food, drink, wakeboarding... you name it. Other times, boat-only charters are the way to go –the crew leaves you to it and you are free to really unwind… and commandeer the kitchen to prepare your own meals.

So, all you really need to decide is where you want to go and how you want to get there.

YACHT CHARTER

Yacht charter has a certain cachet about it – frankly, it’s glamorous. Here’s what I dream of: a group of friends and I hire a large, white one (don’t ask me to get technical) and sail down the Amalfi Coast in style. We’d have a chef and a DJ on board, we’d laze in the over-sized swimming pool and dive-off occasionally into the clear blue Tyrrhenian Sea. At twilight, we’d jump in our motorboat and have supper at whichever port we found ourselves at – Positano, Sorrento, Ravello. Before long, we’d motor boat it back to our floating palace and fall asleep, gently rocked by the waves. This trip would last at least a fortnight – two weeks of divine decadence, fortified by strong sea air and lashings of sunlight.

In actuality, of course, you don’t have to leave Hong Kong waters to enjoy prestige time on a yacht and, unless you’re talking megayacht, you don’t have to be crazy rich to get in on the action. You can hire a yacht for a small party or a big corporate bash (they come in all sizes) for an evening, a day, a weekend or a long, leisurely cruise.

CLASSIC SAILING HK

HONG KONG BOATS

SIMPSON YACHT CHARTER

What you get by chartering a yacht is the promise of excellence… impeccable service, first-rate food, top-notch water toys and, when it comes to addons, you’re spoilt for choice. There’s nothing like an on-board massage and a mani-pedi to set you up for a high-glamour cruise of Victoria Harbour.

JUNK HIRE

There’s something quintessentially Hong Kong about a junk trip. Researching the topic takes me back to the summers when my friends and I would jump a big, old wooden junk seemingly every weekend. Picked up at the pier in Central, we’d be laden down with crates of beer, a bottle of wine or two and “snacks”. We’d have arranged for the crew to cook up chicken curry and Singapore fried noodles, or we’d have scheduled a stop at Peng Chau or Stanley for seafood. In the afternoon, we’d laze in the sun, dive off the top deck for a swim, listen to music (if someone had remembered to bring their decks) and maybe get the chance to water ski. Back then, the best junks also came with a Banana boat. Simple pleasures.

Nostalgia aside, the Hong Kong junk experience is now leagues better. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience staffed by a qualified and friendly crew, or a boat-only charter, you’re covered. Sure, you can opt to bring your own food but you can also go fully catered, choosing from a tempting range of food and drink. These days you can also expect a full menu of add-ons, from jet skis to SUPs, and most junks (they come in white as well as traditional teakwood) are fitted with a high-quality sound system, so you can party the day or night away. Whether you plump for time on a yacht or junk, there are any number of packages and tours on offer, allowing you to take full advantage of Hong Kong’s fantastic waters and coastline. Top destinations include Clearwater Bay, Deepwater Bay, Joss House Bay, Shek O, Stanley, Turtle Cove Beach, Tai Tam Bay, Cheung Chau and Lamma. Be sure to opt for collection and drop-off in DB!

WHAT OUR CHOSEN PROVIDERS HAVE TO SAY

“A day or evening out on a junk gives you a unique experience to enjoy the scenic beauty of Hong Kong’s city harbour and surrounding islands. People can relax and unwind in the calm waters, while enjoying the company of family and friends. You can indulge in activities such as swimming and kayaking. It’s an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a day of fun and relaxation on the sea.”

- Sharon McEneff, Director Charter Junks HK

“If you go around most yacht clubs and ask any sailor how he/ she got into the sport, you'll invariably find they know/ knew someone with a sail boat – as I did I. So, it can be difficult to get into big boat sailing. Yacht charter is a great place to start: it can provide the raw beginner with an opportunity to step into the sailing world and give it a try.”

- Wayne Robinson, Founder Classic Sailing HK

“Every day is a boating day!”

- Michael Li, Cruise Manager Hong Kong Asia Boating

CHARTER JUNKS HK

“Hong Kong has an extraordinary 1,178 km of coastline and 265 islands. Get out on the water and explore."

- Paco Goetschalkx, Managing Director Hong Kong Boats

“Yachting offers a wonderful feeling of freedom. We disconnect very easily from our busy city lives when we are on board with friends, enjoying good F&B and music. Yachts are also well-equipped with fun water toys, everything from jet skis to wakeboards, so there’s plenty to do. Hop on board to enjoy a happy, active and relaxing day away from it all.”

- Paco Chan, Marketing Executive Simpson Yacht Charter

HONG KONG ASIA BOATING CHARTER JUNKS

YACHT CHARTER

CLASSIC SAILING HK

Classic Sailing HK offers 3- to 6-hour sailing charters of various types, from laid-back casual cruising to handson sail training. Exclusive or shared charters are available on La Bonita, a “blue water” classic cutter rigged sailing yacht. On a 6-hour charter, you get to take a break for lunch and anchor in a quiet bay for a swim, or stop by a seafood restaurant on one of Hong Kong’s many islands. Fun family-orientated add-ons like treasure hunts are available.

WhatsApp: 9803 4059

Email: info@classicsailinghk.com

Website: www.classicsailinghk.com

YACHT CHARTER SIMPSON YACHT CHARTER

Simpson Yacht Charter, a division of Simpson Marine, offers a wide range of yachts, itineraries and expert guidance out of bases in Hong Kong, Singapore, Phuket, Pattaya and Langkawi. Choose from bare boat, crewed, superyacht, and corporate charters, with a diverse fleet to match. Experience world-class service and the thrill of yachting in Asia first-hand; explore over 60 yachts for charter in Hong Kong alone.

Tel: 2555 8377

Email: hongkong@simpsonyachtcharter.com

Website: www.simpsonyachtcharter.com

YACHTS & JUNKS

HONG KONG ASIA BOATING

Hong Kong Asia Boating provides various boating options from classic teak junks to luxury cruisers and yachts. The team charters for all budgets, from boat rental only to fully serviced. Well-known Hong Kong catering and drink suppliers are included in many charter packages, as are options for extreme water sports. Hong Kong Asia Boating caters to all events for any celebration with a team that is passionate, reliable and flexible.

Tel: 6376 1012

Email: enquiry@hk-asiaboating.com

Website: www.hk-asiaboating.com

YACHTS & JUNKS

HONG KONG BOATS

Hong Kong Boats has over 40 charter boats to choose from: everything from luxury yachts, cruisers and junks to sailing yachts and catamarans. You have the option to rent the boat only or go with a fully catered package. Pick-up and drop-off can be arranged in DB, Central, TST, or Causeway Bay.

Tel: 6493 2650

Email: info@hongkongboating.hk

Website: www.hongkongboating.hk

JUNK HIRE

CHARTER JUNKS HK

DB-based Charter Junks HK’s two teakwood motor junks are licensed to carry up to 32 passengers and staffed by a friendly, well-qualified crew. You can choose between a boat-only charter or a fully catered experience – complete with speedboat and wakeboard rides. A variety of packages and tours are available locally, with the option for pick-up and drop-off in DB, Central or Aberdeen. Night cruises and murder mystery nights are also on offer.

Tel: 2516 7397, 5431 8894

Email: bookings@charterjunkshk.com

Website: www.charterjunkshk.com

ORANGE TREE CRUISES

Orange Tree Cruises’ two immaculately restored, teak Chinese junks have a capacity of up to 39 guests. You can take your pick from a 7-hour day cruise package and a 4-hour evening harbour cruise package. Both boats have a fully equipped kitchen, bar and barbecue station, with food freshly cooked on board by experienced chefs. A wide range of splash toys, such as a water trampoline, kayak, SUP and noodles, are included with every boat.

Tel: 9633 1942

Email: cruises@orangetree.com.hk

Website: www.orangetree.com.hk

JUNK HIRE

Vacation Time! PLUNGE

INTO THE PHILIPPINES

Diving in Bohol Province

CONSISTING OF THE ISLAND

ITSELF and 75 minor surrounding islands, Bohol Province sits right in the middle of the so-called ‘coral triangle’, which spans Indonesia, Malaysia and Papua New Guinea. Here, in the Philippine’s Central Visayas region, you’ll find over 75% of all coral species, and the highest marine biodiversity in the world.

ADVENTUREDIVE ADDICTS as well as beginner divers (10 years and up), and is routinely listed as one of the top 10 diving destinations in the world. The sea is generally calm and the currents manageable, coupled with excellent visibility. Beginners get to see a myriad of fish and coral even on their initial dives.

BOHOL ATTRACTS

ALONA BEACH ON PANGLAO

ISLAND is Bohol’s tourist mecca; accommodation options vary from local-style guesthouses to international-standard resorts. Numerous accredited dive operators offer PADI and SDI courses, and the reef sees different dive sites spaced out over the length of the beach.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock

A 30-MINUTE BOAT TRIP from Panglao, Balicasag Island is on many a diver’s bucket list. A narrow reef shelf (8 metres deep) surrounds the island, and over the edge of the shelf a perpendicular wall sinks down to depths of 80 metres and more. The shelf is home to a fantastic coral garden filled with all kinds of reef fish, as well as anemones and clownfish.

MAGNIFICENT TURTLES ARE

A ROUTINE SIGHT on any dive off Balicasag – you are almost guaranteed to see a doubledigit number. These turtles are gentle reptiles whose size belies the gracious nature of their movements, and they generally ignore the groups of goggle-eyed divers attempting to get close for that picture-perfect moment.

DUE TO ITS MID-OCEAN LOCATION between Balicasag and Pamilacan islands, the currents at 18-metre-deep Snake Island are fierce and the waves are big. Brave this dive, and you’ll likely spot the colony of black-and-white sea snakes that live off the shoal. Snake Island also homes pelagic fish, scorpion fish and sturgeon.

RESTING PLACE OF MANTAS off Pamilacan Island is another magical dive site to visit. Teeming with colourful coral and marine life, it shelters a squadron of horned manta rays, the largest of which can reach 7 metres in width. Dive here and there’s also a good chance you’ll spot dolphins, particularly if you visit from March through July.

Asia Yacht Services Partners with SeaKeepers: A Journey of Discovery and Education

Asia Yacht Services (AYS) offers a one-stop service for yacht enthusiasts, featuring the finest selection of new yachts as well as pre-owned yachts. AYS is excited to announce its collaboration with the International SeaKeepers Society, a non-profit organisation that supports marine science and conservation.

As AYS and SeaKeepers join forces, they aim to provide yacht owners with a unique opportunity to contribute to ocean conservation and research, while enjoying the pleasures of yachting. By utilising privately owned yachts as platforms for oceanographic research, educational outreach and marine conservation, SeaKeepers eliminates vessel costs, allowing scientists to maximise research potential and make significant strides in preserving our oceans.

The executive director of AYS Sytske Kimman is also the Hong Kong ambassador for SeaKeepers and the founder of My Yacht Moments, a bespoke yacht charter company operating in Hong Kong and beyond. The partnership between AYS and SeaKeepers deepens the connection between yachting enthusiasts and the marine environment, fostering a sense of responsibility for the preservation of our oceans.

JOIN THE DISCOVERY YACHT PROGRAM

One of SeaKeepers’ core initiatives, the DISCOVERY Yacht Program, encompasses scientist-led expeditions, citizen science and educational outreach events. SeaKeepers staff work closely with yacht owners and crew to coordinate research and outreach activities that reflect each yacht owner’s ocean-related interests.

Participation in the DISCOVERY Yacht Program can range from a 10-minute instrument deployment while en route to your next port, to an afternoon outreach trip with children, or even week-long expeditions with a team of expert researchers.

Vessel owners who generously donate time on their yachts to SeaKeepers DISCOVERY Yacht Program may qualify for tax benefits, and will be honoured at SeaKeepers events, featured on the SeaKeepers website, and recognised for their research and conservation efforts in the SeaKeepers newsletter.

CONTRIBUTE TO OCEAN CONSERVATION

Educational outreach is a crucial aspect of the DISCOVERY Yacht Program. By engaging children and communities in marine conservation efforts, the program raises awareness about the importance of protecting our oceans and the vital role they play in our global ecosystem.

Through hands-on learning experiences, SeaKeepers and AYS inspire future generations to take an active role in safeguarding marine life and promoting sustainable practices.

With the support of AYS and yacht owners in Hong Kong and beyond, SeaKeepers’ DISCOVERY Yacht Program stands to make a significant impact on marine research and conservation. By participating in this program, yacht owners have the chance to be part of a global network of ocean advocates, working together to protect our precious marine resources for generations to come.

For more information on how you can get involved with the International SeaKeepers Society and the DISCOVERY Yacht Program, visit www.seakeepers.org.

To learn more about Asia Yacht Services, visit www.asiayachtservices.com.

CRÈME DE

LA CRÈME

Nothing beats the sweet, rich flavours of these classic French desserts

CRÊPES WITH ORANGE MARMALADE & AMARETTO SAUCE

Serves 4

1tsp cornflour

200ml orange juice, freshly squeezed

1tbsp orange marmalade

1tbsp amaretto

½ lemon, juiced

10g unsalted butter, cubed

Start by making four pancakes; place them on a plate to keep warm. Then make the sauce: whisk the cornflour with the orange juice until smooth. Warm it in a pan, stirring to thicken for around 2 minutes. Add the marmalade, amaretto and lemon juice and cook for a few minutes more. Gradually add the butter, whisking until you have a glossy sauce.

Dust each pancake with a little caster sugar and top with the marmalade amaretto sauce. Fold into four, and top with a bit more sauce to serve.

CRÈME BRÛLÉE

Serves 2

5 large egg yolks

50g golden caster sugar, plus extra for the topping

426ml double cream

100ml whole milk

2tsp vanilla essence

Heat the oven to 180˚C. Whisk the egg yolks and sugar in a mixing bowl for 1 minute. Pour the cream, milk and vanilla essence into a pan and bring almost to the boil. Stir the hot cream into the beaten egg yolks; scoop off and discard any foam. Next, place 4 ramekins (175ml) in a roasting tin at least 7.5cm deep. Pour hot water into the tin to come about 1.5cm up the sides of the ramekins. Fill the ramekins with the hot cream. Put them in the oven and lay a baking sheet over the top of the tin so it sits well above the ramekins covering them – leave a small gap at one side to allow air to circulate.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until the mixture is softly set. Leave the ramekins to cool for a couple of minutes, then put them in the fridge to chill. When ready to serve, sprinkle 1½ tsp of caster sugar over each ramekin, covering them completely. Spray the sugar with a little water, then use a blow torch to caramelise it. Serve when the sugar coating on each brûlée is firm.

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Bay Media Rewards Club gives you access to a range of exclusive discounts and lifestyle benefits.

Bay Media Rewards Club gives you access to a range of exclusive discounts and lifestyle benefits.

COMMUNITY SNAPS

LADIES WHO LIFT IN DB NORTH

PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon - www.richardgordonphotography.com

UNCLE RUSS INSTAGRAM COMPETITION

SHARE A PHOTO #AROUNDDB TO WIN PRIZES FROM UNCLE RUSS COFFEE AND THE PIER BAR!

Your mission this month is to share your favourite photo of DB on Instagram #arounddb. You have until the 15th of the month to enter. This is your chance to win four complimentary drinks from Uncle Russ and The Pier Bar. We will contact the winner on Instagram #arounddb. Good luck!

CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST MONTH’S WINNER: Jessie Leung @akane_photographie

Packing, Moving & Storage Services. Fixed price quote upon onsite survey or choose from the rates below:

Hire a Truck: HK$220/hour. Minimum 3 hours.

Short Trips: HK$200 & up.

Hire Movers: HK$120/hour per mover. Minimum 3 hours.

Cartons and Packing Materials:

16x14x14" (Small): HK$12.

23x15x15" (Medium): HK$15.

24x18x16" (Large): HK$18.

36x23x11" (Flat Carton for Hanging Clothes): HK$30.

24x22x47" (Wardrobe Boxes): HK$90.

Plastic Wrap: HK$60/roll.

Packing Paper: HK$160/ream.

Bubble: HK$50/roll.

Packing Tape: HK$8/piece.

Plastic Boxes & Used Cartons can be provided free of charge. (Subject to availability.)

Serves Lantau, DB, Tung Chung and the rest of HK.

LOCAL NUMBERS

TUNG CHUNG

SOUTH LANTAU

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,

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

Tree of Joy

A fun, engaging & supportive environment in which children play & learn. Programmes include a drop-off nursery class, parent-toddler class, afternoon camp & cooking class. Contact 3742 8772, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com

The Rink All Day Lounge

Located in DB Plaza Extension, the The Rink All Day Lounge specialises in international cuisine with a Mediterranean influence, offering guests a superior dining experience. To reserve a table, call 3709 6451.

U14. Contact 9770 4548, train@tekkerzfootball.com, www.prosportsasia.com

IN A TIGHT SPOT

Thinking back to the pandemic, my fear was not the HK$5,000 COVID-mask fine, but the prospect of internment in a shipping container at Penny’s Bay. The juxtaposition of Disneyland’s Castle of Magical Dreams with container confinement made me think maybe the area was possessed by witches.

As a bit of a claustrophobe, I’d be a nightmare in the space station, not only because I don’t see the point, although it would be roomy compared to existence in a Hong Kong bunk bed. Compare that to a palatial 75-square-foot prison cell plus three free meals a day and I’ll take jail.

When I got to chilly London in the 60’s, wedged into a dank bedsit (too cold for frogs but mushrooms growing in the grimy carpet was a possibility), my only thought was sunny Australia. My “salary” wouldn’t even get me as far south as Surrey.

Not so for one Reg Spiers who said to hell with despair and hit upon the genius idea of airmailing himself back to Oz in a small wooden crate, with blackness, cramps, hunger and horror for company. At the time the London to Sydney airfare was the same price as the average car. The squashed Aussie made it in three days, which must have inspired a similarly-minded Welsh twit, Brian Robson, to repeat the performance the following year – in reverse. His box took the long route to London, taking five days to reach a warehouse… in Los Angeles. Upside-down, in a state of panic, and covered in excrement, workers released him. The airline gave him a free first-class ticket to London.

Robson and Spiers deserve nomination to the Pantheon of Dumb Ideas and Monumentally Mad Hall of Fame. Of his epic trip Robson said, “I know it was stupid, but it was London or die.” He almost scored on both counts.

For my phobic self, it was bad enough taking a skinny one-man tent to the mountains, and ending up sleeping with my head outside in the icy wind and rain. Next day was worse. I had to squeeze, terrified, through a tight dark rock formation dragging my backpack behind. Arriving on a ledge with a 500-metre sheer drop, the relief was euphoric. Like finishing a CAT scan.

For long-term voluntary imprisonment the mayor of Mijas in Spain takes the biscuit. Caught up in the ferment of civil war in the 1930s, Manuel Cortes evaded Franco’s execution squads by hiding in his little house while his wife fought dire poverty to protect him – for 30 years – with not even the gossipy villagers suspecting. Imagine, 1,560 Sundays; about 36 Italian governments; and the time it takes to investigate a traffic accident in Thailand. I get antsy after 15 minutes in the sauna.

The Cortes’ silence was a monumental achievement, particularly in a Spanish community where secrets last as long as ice-cream in the Andalusian sun. Instead of being chased around the country and racking up hotel bills and bus fares, the mayor emerged in 1969 to a world he could barely recognise and thinking maybe the Fascist mob was a better option.

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.

HELLO IN THERE!

PHOTO COURTESY OF Adobe Stock

Being trapped in small, confined spaces is definitely not Peter Sherwood’s thing. He has some crazy, claustrophobiainducing stories to share