Around DB October Issue 2016

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

LOCAL BOY GOES PRO BIRTHDAY PARTY HACKS

for time-poor parents HOW PURE IS DB’S

air and water?

ANDREAS THORSEN Playing soccer for Scotland

UNDERAGE DRINKING AND DRUGGING

HARVEY’S

KART RACE HOW JEAN-FRANÇOIS IGNITED A COMMUNITY PASSION

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

Join your community online

Publishers in DB since 2002 OCTOBER 2016

RENTALS/SALES 寶峰 PARKVALE

$26.5K

碧濤軒 COASTLINE

Gross: 835’ Saleable: 722’ 2

寶峰 PARKVALE

$48K/12.5M

3 2

Amazing!! Spacious lowrise apartment with large roof terrace, great for entertaining. Must see!!

2

哥爾夫球車 EZGO GOLF CART

海寧居 LA VISTA

$2.1M

$52K

2

Nicely renovated garden lowrise, modern open kitchen and close to DB plaza and pier.

2

海蜂徑 SEABEE

2

Tastefully decorated duplex lowrise. Tranquil and treed environment. Perfect Home. Don’t miss!

霞暉閣 HAVEN

$250K/138M

Gross: 5168’ Saleable: 4853’

Gross: 1133’ Saleable: 1119’ 5

$40K / 13M

Gross: 933’ Saleable: 837’

Spacious lowrise, balcony with great views and in a tranquil location. Must see!

海馬徑 SEAHORSE

Gross: 1213’ Saleable: 1138’ 3

$35K

Gross: 1471’ Saleable: 1282’

Fully furnished apartment with balcony, walking distance to DB plaza and pier.

1

OCTOBER 2016

$5.65M

4

Contemporary home with garden, pool and balances.

Panoramic sea views, quiet location.

4

海澄閣 CRESTLINE

$8.8M

T

EN

G EA

L

SO

Gross: 889’ Saleable: 755’ 3

Well maintained and kept like new!

觀柏樓 PINE VIEW

2

$11.5M

Gross: 1108’ Saleable: 809’

Renovated apartment, high efficiency and in a quiet location. Easy access to all transports.

海澄湖畔 SIENA

$12M

3

Nicely renovated apartment, bright and airy.

Balcony with stunning sea views.

2

海蜂徑 SEABEE

$36M

T!

EN

AD

AG

LE

Gross:1248’

Gross: 1169’ Saleable : 953’ 2 1

Renovated apartment with lovely terrace, spacious living, bright and airy.

3 2

Saleable: 968’

Lovely renovation lowrise, balcony with great views.

Close to schools and Club Siena.

Gross: 3100’ Saleable: 2403’ 4 3

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

www.headlandhomes.hk

2987 2088

EAA LIC C-033418

INSPIRING FUTURES

OPEN TO ALL - NO NEED TO ATTEND AN ESF SCHOOL

ESF SPORTS AT DISCOVERY COLLEGE Helping all children reach their full potential ABOUT ESF SPORTS ESF Sports is a specialist youth sports coaching organisation with experienced, qualified coaches delivering expert coaching across a range of sports. Our programmes develop children’s abilities from the moment they are introduced to sports building their fundamental skills through to the advanced level and beyond where they can participate at competitive level in one of ESF Sports’ successful squads and academies.

F

ESF SPORTS

QUALIFIED COACHES We are committed to maintaining high standards for all our coaches and have established professional development programmes and mentorships so that our staff is encouraged to continue to develop their professional skills and expertise. All ESF Sports coaches are fully qualified with first aid-CPR training and child protection training. Safety of your child is very important to us.

WHY PLAY SPORTS? Participating in sport at a young age can improve health and fitness, promote psychological health and well-being, develop social skills such as team-work and leadership, assist with problem solving and creative thinking and provide a balanced educational experience. Children who play sports are often better able to organise daily activities, have a greater level of energy and self-confidence and an ability to interact socially.

sports@esf.org.hk

Tel: 2711 1280

www.esf.org.hk

ESF TIGERS BASKETBALL PROGRAMME The ESF Tigers Basketball programme at Discovery College, provides an opportunity for local DB-based athletes, from 5 to 13 years old, to be taught individual and team skills whether they are new to the sport or simply wishing to enhance an existing skill set. For more experienced players, the programme provides a clear, structured pathway for those who want to progress into competitive team play.

ESF LIONS FOOTBALL PROGRAMME ESF Football, at Discovery College, places great importance in developing individual skills and instilling in your child a love of the game. We offer boys’ and girls’ football, both leading to competitive pathways in which teams compete in championships and leagues.

ESF Lions have a strong sense of community and connectedness with all our players, which helps our players grow socially and professionally as an athlete and as a person.

ESF SPORTS CAMPS & CLINICS ESF Multi Sports Holiday Camps are coming to Discovery College! The programme offers children between the ages of 2 to 11 the fun and experience of participating in different sporting activities, learning fundamental skills of balancing and kicking for younger students to developing agility and speed for older students. The fun never stops!

Our age and ability appropriate programme and our elite coaches.

ENROLLIN

ESF SHARKS SWIMMING PROGRAMME What do Michael Phelps, Katie Ledecky and Joseph Schooling have in common with ESF Sharks?

We all follow the golden standard! All ESF swimming coaches go through the USA Swimming Coaching training course. The ESF Sharks Swimming Programme at Discovery College includes Baby & Me and Learn to Swim programmes, which are an ideal opportunity for children to experience an active and exciting introduction to water and the sport of swimming.

G NOW! AUTUMN SCHEDULE Week 1: 26 - 30 September Week 2: 3 - 7 October ENROLLIN

ESF GYMNASTICS New to Discovery College! Our programme provides fun, structured and safe classes, which benefits children’s body strength, flexibility, coordination and balance as they develop their gymnastics skills.

Train with our Head Coach Becky, a former Hong Kong Gymnastics Representative and Senior Coach Rachel, a former member of the China National Gymnastics Team.

G NOW!

WINTER SCHEDULE Week 1: 19 - 23 December Week 2: 28 - 30 December

Summer camps are available from 3rd July to 11th August 2017.

Chef's Choice TBC

Join us at the

Saturday 3 December 2016 | 12 - 5 pm at Discovery College Arts & Crafts, Balloon Man, Bouncy Castles, Cake Stall, Commercial and Charity Stalls, Entertainment, Face Painting, Food and Drink, Games, Second-hand books, Prizes and Give aways.

Proudly supported by:

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Stanley Plaza Store, Stanley T 2555 6318

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D Park Store, Tsuen Wan T 2799 2923

www.bumpstobabes.com

www.facebook.com/bumpstobabeshk

OCTOBER 2016 FEATURES

28

28

PROFILE Meet DB’s own Andreas Thorsen, now playing in the Scottish Championship League

32

IN FOCUS Is our air and water quality as good as we think?

41

PARENTING SMARTS Birthday party cheats – how to hack the hassle

44

FAMILY MATTERS Underage drinking and illegal drug use in DB

53

ESCAPES Waking up to wonderful Indonesia

REGULARS

41

26

COMPETITION Win big prizes at www.arounddb.com

37

MOMENTS Jean-François Harvey gears up for the third Harvey Law Group Kart Race

49

TALKING POINTS Why DB is a runners’ paradise

65

DB FACES Candid community snaps

76

OUT THERE Thoughts on island life

AGENDA 49

44

76

12

IN&AROUND DB Catch up with the latest community news

59

HK HAPPENINGS Find fun things to do across the harbour

67

CLASSIFIEDS Great deals, employment, businesses and more

70

PROPERTY Choice local and overseas homes to buy or rent

73

LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

LOCAL BOY GOES PRO BIRTHDAY PARTY HACKS

for time-poor parents

We also publish…

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

HOW PURE IS DB’S

air and water?

ANDREAS THORSEN Playing soccer for Scotland

UNDERAGE DRINKING AND DRUGGING

HARVEY’S

KART RACE HOW JEAN-FRANÇOIS IGNITED A COMMUNITY PASSION

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

Join your community online

Publishers in DB since 2002

ON THE COVER DB’s lawyer-mechanic, Jean-François Harvey prepares for some family fun

Photo by Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

OCTOBER 2016

For the latest Around DB updates, find us on

and www.arounddb.com

YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNITY EVENTS

Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk Managing editor Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk Assistant editor Sam Agars sam@baymedia.com.hk Digital strategist & coordinator Claire Severn claire@baymedia.com.hk Advertising & sales manager Lissa Morris lissa@baymedia.com.hk Sales account managers Monika Carruthers monika@baymedia.com.hk Connie Cottam connie@baymedia.com.hk Senior graphic designer Andrew Spires andrew@baymedia.com.hk Photography Baljit Gidwani, www.evoqueportraits.com Contributors this month Henry Benjamin Emily Dowd (intern) Kate Farr Patricia Jover Peter Sherwood Cecilia Yee Printing Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion, 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong

sclaimer The views expressed in ound DB are not necessarily those the publisher, editor or contributors. e publisher and editor cannot be held ponsible for differences of opinion or tements published in good faith. The blisher, contributors, their employees d partners are not responsible for the ults of any actions, errors or omissions en on the basis of information contained his publication and expressly disclaim and any liability for any such action any person. The mention of specific mpanies or products in articles or vertisements does not imply that they endorsed or recommended by this gazine or its publisher in preference to ers of a similar nature which are not ntioned or advertised. No part of this gazine may be reproduced in any form hout permission.

www.evoqueportraits.com

DBRC CHARITY TENNIS CUP The DBRC Charity Tennis Cup on September 24 was a huge success, with vital funds raised for the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association and Watchdog Early Education Centre. As usual, there were plenty of outlandish and eyecatching costumes worn on court and the matches were fiercely contested. For the results, head to the Discovery Bay Tennis Connection Facebook page.

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

IN&AROUND DB

www.arounddb.com October 2016

13

IN&AROUND DB

MID-AUTUMN CELEBRATIONS DBers converged on Tai Pak Wan and the Discovery Bay Recreation Club on September 15 to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with mooncakes and lanterns.

www.evoqueportraits.com

14

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

IN&AROUND DB

BART’S BASH On September 17, Lantau Boat Club and Discovery Bay Yacht Club took to the waters around Lantau to compete in the local leg of Bart’s Bash, officially the biggest sailing race in the world. The day was a huge success despite there not being quite as much wind as the sailors would have liked.

Photos courtesy of Cindy Chung

ANTHONY HOROWITZ AT DBIS Famed author and television and movie scriptwriter Anthony Horowitz joined Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) students on September 14 for a question and answer session via Skype. Most famous for his Alex Rider series of young adult books and the new James Bond novel, Trigger Mortis, Anthony fielded questions from a panel of 10 students while the rest of Years 4, 5 and 6 looked on.

Thanks go to student John Ling for his letter to Anthony convincing him to Skype DBIS, and to Bookazine for sponsoring prizes for the event. See for yourself at https://youtu.be/IitbYx4vbfs.

Photos courtesy of DBIS

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October 2016 www.arounddb.com

DISCOVERY BAY ALLIANCE CHURCH & DISCOVERY BAY INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY CHURCH

KIDS IN THE PARK WITH TICKET

SNACKS & FUN

KIDS ACTIVITIES & GAMES

FACE PAINTING

AGES

2 - 10

OCT

22

2016

FREE ADMISSION

FAMILY FUN AT SIENA PARK

2 -5 PM

$20 PER TICKET

SPONSORED BY: RY ME U - SCA NON DE COST A T M S E HOM CONTE ETS! TICK D E IT LIM

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE ALLIANCE CHURCH (BEHIND FUSION)

OR EMAIL : OFFICE@DBICC.ORG

OFFICE www.homesolutions.hk

Sharon Riley Misako Takato Kim Jomar

3483 5003 9664 4749 9757 0927 9748 2367

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

SERVING PROPERTY OF SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG

$49K-$65K MICHELIA VILLAS 1500’ NET+ & 1356’ NET + GARDEN

Luxuriously renovated to a high standard in the heart of Cheung Sha. 3 beds, 3 baths. Spacious split level living/dining area. Separate kitchen with all mod cons. Each house w/ landscaped gardens. Private parking.

$4M/$10K

$15.2M TONG FUK VILLAGE HOUSE 2100’ + 700’ ROOF + 1000’ GARDEN

Rare property on market with substantial mature garden. 5 beds, 3 baths inc 1 ensuite. Open plan living/dining room. Large master with ensuite.

Elevated position gives stunning sea views.

$9.5M PUI O VILLAGE HOUSE 2100’ + 700’ Rooftop

Fantastic value full village house in heart of Pui O. 3/4 beds, 3 baths. Large open plan kitchen on G/F. Helpers room with shower. Sea views from rooftop.

Below current B/V. Potential rental yield of 4.5%

$8K +

2/F SHUI HAU VILLAGE HOUSE 700’ + 700’ Rooftop

RIVERWALK FLATS VARIOUS SIZES AVAILABLE SOME W/ FLAT ROOF

Tranquil 2/F flat with green views. 3 beds, 1 bath. Newly renovated.

Spacious living area. Near to popular kite surfing beach. Available now!

The newest development on S. Lantau is now ready to rent. Flats range from Studio to Duplex loft to 2 bed. Some with flat roof or balcony. All inc stove top, microwave, washer/dryer, fridge, 24 hr security. Great Value!

Making you feel at home is our business

Call us any time at 3483 5003 or Email PROPERTY@HOMESOLUTIONS.HK

C-044849

IN&AROUND DB

YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS www.dawsonhealth.ca

IRIDOLOGY WITH IMI DB North Plaza

t ghou u o r h T er Octob

Iridology can help uncover the underlying cause of health problems, such as stomach acid issues, muscular tension, inflammation and even over-thinking.

It is based on the philosophy that the eye’s structure and colour pattern can point to predispositions in the body, especially when the person is in imbalance. Call 2537 1087 to book your free, 10-minute iridology assessment with IMI naturopath and homeopath Sara Jefferson.

Find more information and events @ www.arounddb.com

r 3-6

er 2

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VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE KIDS’ SOCK TO WIN!

JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP, organised

by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, at Nim Shue Wan from 3pm to 5pm.

Visit www.dbgreen.org.

Around DB Facebook page

This is your chance to vote for the winner of the Around DB Sock Design Competition 2016 with Eureka Socks. DBers have until 6pm on October 6 to vote for their favourite designs posted on the Around DB Facebook page. Primary school students from all over DB have taken part in the competition, with each school selecting one design to be entered in the online vote.

The three winning designs, as chosen by the community, will become part of the all-new, healthy and fun Eureka Socks’ range.

A DB-based garment company, Eureka Socks started up after concerned parents read about cancer-causing substances found in school uniforms and branded clothing. The range includes both school and funky socks. Find out more at the Eureka Socks Facebook page.

Sean Mo, S.K.H. Wei Lun Primary School

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Octob

DB ENTREPRENEURS NETWORKING BREAKFAST

Harper Burke, Discovery Bay International School

at Zak’s, DB, kicks off at 8am.

For information head to the DB Entrepreneurs Networking Breakfast Facebook page or visit www.t8events.com. t ghou Throuober Oct

TO ADOPT A PET through

Felicia Tam, Discovery College

18

Lia Dauphant, Discovery Mind Primary School

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

Maren Bentley, Hong Kong International Learning Academy

Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS), call Jacqui Green on 9197 4371, for Hong Kong Paws Foundation (PAWS), call Kat Cheung on 9485 5188.

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

STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET

DYMOCKS DB CLOSES

across from Haven Court, 2pm to 4.45pm.

For more information, call 2238 3617. October 8

Dymocks Discovery Bay officially closed its doors on September 15, ending a strong and valued relationship with the DB community.

The family-friendly store, and its welcoming owners, Susan and Photo courtesy of Susan Leung Carlos Leung, will be sadly missed. The Leungs have run Dymocks DB for the past three years and look forward to facilitating book orders and selling environmentally friendly products from DB in the future. You can contact them on yeeloktingltd@gmail.com.

KIDS IN THE PARK Central Park, Siena One Discovery Bay Alliance Church and Discovery Bay International Community Church are holding their annual Kids in the Park fun day, sponsored

by Around DB. From 2pm to 5pm, families with kids aged two to 10 can expect a host of fun games and activities, including face painting and a homemade costume contest. Tickets, costing HK$20, are available from the Alliance Church, which is located behind Fusion.

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SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET

in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm.

BBQ BASH DB North Plaza

BOX OF HOPE All DB schools

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At Chef’s Choice annual BBQ concert on the waterfront promenade, residents can expect great entertainment from the big stage, plus a huge barbecue menu including whole 45-kilogramme spit roasted pigs. From 5pm till late.

To find out more, email db@chefschoice.com.hk.

SPORTSMANSHIP CHARITY FUN DAY

Photo courtesy of Chef’s Choice

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Club Siena After a short break, Charles Chan of Sportsmanship is back in DB, inviting all DB families to come along and try a host of new programmes, including gymnastics, lion dance, African drum and dance, basketball, ‘remote control plane’ and ‘wax hand master’. Children can meet the new coaches and enjoy lessons at the the fun day, which doubles as a fundraiser for Harmony Home Association.

Kids can sign up in advance for three trials plus a wax hand for HK$280, or pay HK$100 per trial on the day. Call Club Siena on 2987 7382, or email sportsmanshiphk@gmail.com to sign up.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN Photo courtesy of Evelyn Robinson

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Photo courtesy of Charles Chan

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to all the witches, wizards and goblins in DB!

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Box of Hope is aiming for 25,000 boxes in 2016 and is urging DB kids to do their bit for underprivileged children in Hong Kong and Asia by filling a shoe box with new and interesting educational gifts. To get involved, email dana.winograd@gmail.com or visit www.boxofhope.org.

www.boxofhope.org

www.arounddb.com October 2016

Photo courtesy of DMR

19

IN&AROUND DB

SAVE THE DATE THE BIG PICNIC

DB Plaza and Tai Pak Wan

DB 10KM RUN FOR CHARITY

Start: Central Park, Siena One

ber 5 Novem

ber 12

Novem

TEAM FEAR Throughout DB

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Photo by Michael Keating Photo courtesy of Nick Flavell

The Big Picnic, the bigger and better version of Hong Kong’s favourite live music and dance festival Picnic in the Park, is coming up soon and volunteers are needed to help out on the day. If you are interested in running a stall, working with the bands or handling donations, email help@thebigpicnichk.com.

Entry to the DB 10km Run for Charity is HK$350 if paid before October 31 and this year there’s a brand-new race route.

Funds raised are being donated to The Hub HK, a youth centre in Sham Shui Po. To register or volunteer as a marshal, head to www.dbrunforcharity.org. Coorganiser Erin Bowland comments on DB’s addiction to running on page 49.

www.team-fear.com

Kids aged eight to 18 are already training vigorously for the Team FEAR Junior Challenge, in support of Hong Kong charity Youth Outreach. Registration is now full, but teams can join the waiting list at www.team-fear.com. Team places often become available in the lead-up to the race.

NEW IN DB BOOKAZINE DB Plaza

KYAMA SWIM SCHOOL Throughout DB

www.kyamaswimschool.com

www.evoqueportraits.com

Discovery Bay’s much-loved book store, also popular for its extensive range of kids’ educational tools, crafts and board games, is relocating to DB Plaza in November.

With events including book signings and guest speakers, there is always something happening at Bookazine. Find out more at www.bookazine.com.hk.

20

A truly local business, Kyama Swim School offers training programmes for adults, private lessons, learn-to-swim courses for the helper community and development squads for Discovery College students. Experienced coaches focus on skill development and stroke correction to ensure overall improvement at any level. Contact 9487 5049 or kyamaswimschool@gmail.com, or visit www.kyamaswimschool.com.

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

THE EXPERT SHOPPERS DB Plaza

www.expert-shoppers.com

With new products hitting the shelves on a weekly basis, The Expert Shoppers is DB’s one-stop lifestyle boutique. The product range includes home textiles, ceramic decorations, jewellery, clothing, toys and beauty supplies. Collections are sourced from around the world to provide residents with a wide range of gifts and everyday essentials. Contact 3704 7402 or sourcing@expert-shoppers.com, or visit www.expert-shoppers.com.

DB's own lifestyle boutique www.expert-shoppers.com Tel: 3704 7402 Visit us in DB Plaza Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 10am - 6pm

Chef Pour Toi

DB-based private catering service Catering

Corporate or Private Parties

Cocktail Receptions

22 NORTH

Lavish Buffets & Barbeques

Our dedicated chefs use only the freshest ingredients to turn food into art. We provide you with the knowledge to turn your event into a success, allowing you to focus on your guests while we do what we know best.

Contact Chef Pour Toi to get a quote for your tailor-made party.

Email chef@chefpourtoi.com

IN&AROUND DB

CONGRATULATIONS DB’S JOHN CAMPBELL

Photo courtesy of John Campbell

Congratulations to DB resident John Campbell, who finished first for his age group at the Aquathlon World Championships in Mexico in September. John finished the 2.5km run-1km swim-2.5km run 45 seconds ahead of his nearest competitor in the 60-64 age group.

Earlier in the year, John won the 2,000-metre steeplechase at the Asian Masters Athletic Age Group Championships in Singapore.

FIRST TIME PARENT MAGAZINE

Photo courtesy of Nate Kelsey

Congratulations to DB residents Jill and Nate Kelsey on the three-year anniversary of First Time Parent Magazine available on iTunes and Google Play. The magazine has been downloaded in over 120 countries and is a must-read for all parents. Head to http://bit.ly/1bk4tRK (iTunes) or http://bit.ly/1f7mKDn (Google Play).

Look into My Eyes!

FREE Iridology Assessments Iridology is a tool from the German tradition of Naturopathy. The structure and colour pattern in the eye can point to predispositions in the body, especially when the person is in imbalance. An eye analysis can reveal information such as stomach acid issues, tendencies for muscular tension, inflammation and even over-thinking.

IMI Naturopath and Homeopath Sara Jefferson uses iridology as a tool to help her get to the underlying cause of health issues. During the month of October, book in for a FREE, no obligation, 10-minute assessment with Sara.

Please call 2537 1087 to make a booking today!

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OZZIE COZZIE

ON SALE

FROM 3RD OCT

October 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th

503 Tak Woo House, 1-3 Wo On Lane, Lan Kwai Fong, Central

www.ozziecozzieco.com Enquiries: 9462 0352

IN&AROUND DB

LANTAU HIGHLIGHTS IRENE FLANHARDT’S BACKSTAGE SCENERY Flanhardt Galerie und Atelier, Tai O

er 1 to Octob ber 18 Decem

YHKCC ADMISSION BRIEFING

BARCLAYS MOONTREKKER

YHKCC, Tung Chung

Start: Mui Wo

er Octob

14

www.barclaysmoontrekker.com

Photo by Irene Flanhardt

Tai O resident Irene Flanhardt presents a photographical journey through the backstage life of Chinese opera performers, portraying the age-old saying: “10 years of work for every minute on stage”. Find out more at www.fgua.com.hk.

One of Hong Kong’s most unique endurance races, MoonTrekker sees individuals, pairs and teams of four tackle the Moonlit 30 (km), starting at 11pm, or the Sunrise 43 (km), starting at 8.45pm. Both end on Pui O Beach, with participants raising funds for The Nature Conservancy. The race sold out in minutes this year, but you can join the waitlist by visiting www.barclaysmoontrekker.com.

SMATS ATS

specialist mortgage

specialist mortgage

ATS

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Photo courtesy of YHKCC

Get all the information you need to enrol your child at YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College for the 2017/ 18 school year, from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. To reserve your place, contact Amanda Shek on 2988 2028 or amanda@ymcacc.edu.hk.

DISCOVER THE NEW YOU!

FITNESS TRAINING

WITH TYLER TREECE

PERSONALISED TRAINING PROGRAMS • Trx suspension trainer • Boot camp • Corrective exercises • Trail running • Corporate team building

Contact us (852) 9400 4237 admin@treecesports.com www.treecefitness.com

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

COMPETITION

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

To enter, email info@baymedia.com.hk, YOUR PRIZE: Integrated click on the competitions link at Medicine Institute (IMI) is offering www.arounddb.com, or scan one reader a one-hour osteopathic the QR Code below. Don’t forget to give us your name treatment (worth HK$1,400) with its and telephone number! new French osteopath, Jonathan Vallade,

Win an osteopathic treatment at IMI

Who founded The Beat Dance & Fitness Studio?

valid until December 1.

www.thebeat.com.hk

Win classes at The Beat Dance & Fitness Studio Name three health issues that osteopaths treat.

YOUR PRIZE: The Beat Dance & Fitness Studio is offering one reader three fitness classes good for Beat Cardio, yoga, Mommies & Babies and Happy Feet (worth HK$180 each), and another reader two dance classes for either Ladies Latin Fusion, Latin Kids, Latin for Adults or salsa (worth HK$240 each). The offer is valid for one month.

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FIND THE ANSWER: Founded by DB residents and dance professionals Ivailo Tonchev and Alyona Zarnitsyna, The Beat Dance & Fitness Studio in DB Plaza offers a wide variety of dance and fitness classes for adults and children. Ivailo and Alyona believe in the synergy of healthy eating habits and exercise (in all its forms). To join a class, call 5194 9630 or visit www.thebeat.com.hk.

Y

CM

www.minchosteo.co.uk

MY

CY

FIND THE ANSWER: Osteopathy is used to treat a wide range of health issues including musculoskeletal, digestive and respiratory problems; migraines; insomnia; colic and reflux in babies; and even fertility issues in women. To book an appointment at IMI in DB North Plaza, call 2537 1087; to find out more, visit www.imi.com.hk.

Which anniversary is Horrible Histories celebrating?

Photo courtesy of ABA Productions

CMY

K

Win tickets to see Horrible Histories – The Best of Barmy Britain YOUR PRIZE: ABA Productions is offering one reader four tickets (worth HK$435 each) to see Horrible Histories – The Best of Barmy Britain at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai on January 20, at 5pm. (Readers should note that tickets cannot be exchanged for other KidsFest shows.)

FIND THE ANSWER: Horrible Histories is marking its fifth year in the West End with a special anniversary production that unites favourite historical figures from Henry VIII to Boudicca.

This hilarious and educational performance is showing on January 20 and 22, 2017, as part of KidsFest 2017. For tickets, visit www.hkticketing.com.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Phillip Weber, Sharmila Rajah, Anne Fee, Sabina Simmons and Marie Pelard for tickets to the Asia Contemporary Art Show; Sue Hopkins, India Granger and Nicole Cowley for tickets to see Wicked; Noel Kong and Winita Onglaor for yoga classes with Embody; Estelle Davies for tickets to see Shark in the Park; and Leigh Ann Garnier, Catherine Lam and Cathryn Mullin for e-vouchers from Leo’s Fine Food.

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October 2016 www.arounddb.com

PROFILE

GOING PRO Photo courtesy of Fife Photo Agency

Prodigious teen soccer talent, DB’s own Andreas Thorsen chats with Sam Agars about making it to the Scottish Championship league

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I

t’s not unusual for a teenager to dream about one day gracing a famous sporting ground at the highest level. The thing that sets Andreas Thorsen apart is that he is living that dream, having recently signed a contract with Scottish Championship club Raith Rovers.

successful sportspeople, he is not in his position by chance. Years of hard work and sacrifice are starting to pay dividends for the 18-year-old DBer, and he is determined to see just how far he can go in the game that he loves.

Andreas is no ordinary kid – he is blessed with a little more sporting prowess than most – but like most

Born in Taiwan, Andreas spent two years living in Bangkok before settling in Discovery Bay with his parents

Making his mark

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

Lars and Jeanette – both of whom are Danish – as a three-year-old. His dad Lars worked for IKEA – hence the moving around – but Hong Kong had a certain appeal to the family and marked the final stop on an extensive Asian tour.

Andreas started his schooling at Discovery Bay International School, before shifting to Discovery College.

He then headed to Denmark to spend

PROFILE

the Discovery Bay Dragons (now the Hong Kong Dragons Football Cub) and immediately became enamoured by the sport. He progressed to play in the juniors for Hong Kong Premier League-side Kitchee via selection in FCBEscola, the Hong Kong Academy of Spanish footballing powerhouse Barcelona FC that Kitchee jointly runs.

It was at Oure College of Sport & Performing Arts that Andreas’ thoughts of becoming a professional footballer began to evolve past a pipe dream. “I came from Hong Kong where no one has really gone top, top professional,” he explains. “When I went to Denmark, there were five different teams for under 16s and I made it into the first team. I was really surprised about that and it was then that I thought ‘OK, this could be serious’.”

On returning from his year in Denmark in which he “learnt so much”, Andreas played for Hong Kong Football Club, starting with the colts team in the Yau Yee League and working his way on to the senior side.

He helped the club finish second in the Hong Kong first division and, as a result, gain an automatic promotion to the premier division.

Attacking Raith Rovers players: Andreas Thorsen with Mark Stewart, Yaw Osei and Jonny Court

the 2013/ 14 school year at Oure College of Sport & Performing Arts, before returning to complete his last two years of study at West Island School. He graduated in May of this year, marking the end of a testing period in which the teenager precariously juggled his schooling with his sporting career.

“I would average about five hours of sleep a night,” Andreas says. “I would go to training after school and then get home, eat dinner and do homework.

I’d go to bed at one in the morning and

Despite his success with Hong Kong Football Club, Andreas is quick to bring the conversation back to where it all began. “DB Dragons was my start,” he says. “I’ve been attached to the game ever since I started there.”

then wake up again at 6.30am.”

The road to Raith

It was memories of this period that made Andreas’ signing with Raith in late July all the more rewarding. “It’s a dream come true,” he says. “I know it sounds cheesy but football is the only thing I’ve ever really wanted to do and it’s been so difficult. It was so much hard work and the relief of that having paid off by getting this contract is just massive.”

It was HK Dragons coach James Dean who started the process of Andreas being signed by Raith through a contact of his, who in turn had contacts in Scotland. Andreas made a YouTube video in June this year and sent it to the club. “They were really pleased and wanted to have me over for a two-week trial,” he says. Two weeks turned into four weeks and before he knew it, Andreas was staring down the barrel of his first-ever professional football contract. 

The attacking midfielder started playing soccer at the age of four for

www.arounddb.com October 2016

29

PROFILE “The contract that I am on now is an apprentice, which is a first-year professional,” he says. “I’ll be in the under 20s but I train with the first team regularly. I’ll be on the bench for the first team as well.”

Put into context, Raith is in the second division in Scotland, one division below historic Scottish Premiership clubs such as Celtic and Rangers.

“With the quality of players the team has it will be a huge challenge but I’d like to see myself making regular appearances,” Andreas says. “Perhaps making the starting 11 will be difficult, but making regular appearances coming off the bench would be a more realistic goal for me.”

As for the future, while he admits that “the ultimate goal is to reach the top”,

Andreas is content to soak up as much as he can and keep drawing on the motivation that has got him this far.

“Every time you go on to the field it’s a different opponent and something different can happen,” he says. “No game is played twice so, in a sense, everything is always different and that is what I like. As an attacking player, there is so much creativity that the game allows you to do.”

Inspiration is also on offer from Andreas’ new flatmates, from whom the confident youngster is determined to learn as much as possible. “I’m living in an apartment with two other Raith Rovers players, one from Ireland who has played for the Irish national team under 20s and another guy who used to play for Sheffield United under 21s,” he says.

“They have been in [football]

Find more local heroes

academies their whole lives and I’ve done IB [International Baccalaureate] and played in Hong Kong, that’s the stuff that motivates me.”

While Andreas admits the move to the “cute little town” of Kirkcaldy, after the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong, has called for a lifestyle adjustment, the difficulty of being away from his parents is offset by the fact that his 20-year-old sister Amanda is living in England, studying midwifery at the University of Surrey. “That is pretty cool,” he says.

As for career pursuits of his own, Andreas enjoyed the marketing and management block of his IB curriculum and says that is something he can see himself doing if football doesn’t work out. For now, however, his goal is to “pursue football 100%”.

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QUALITY

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CONTROL

Discovery Bay residents don’t have much to complain about when it comes to standard of living and lifestyle in general, but how concerned should we be about the air we breathe and the water we drink? Henry Benjamin investigates

DB’s air fluctuates in quality and controversy surrounds the potability of our tap water

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

IN FOCUS

I

t can be easy to take life here for granted and forget just how good DBers and, more broadly, Hong Kongers have it in comparison to people in other parts of the world.

That being said, the most basic things that most of us in the developed world have come to accept as normal, such as clean air and pure drinking water, can no longer be taken for granted. Here in Hong Kong, air fluctuates in quality and is certainly not always at a healthy level, and there has been plenty of controversy surrounding the potability of our tap water.

found to be the culprit. The scandal had an impact in Discovery Bay, with many questioning whether there were similar issues here.

At the bequest of residents, Islands District Council member for Discovery Bay Amy Yung oversaw the taking of a number of samples in DB. Test sites included Peninsula, Beach and Greenvale villages and the commercial area in DB Plaza.

“According to the WHO, the healthbased guideline value for lead is no

Certainly, the WSD recommends proper maintenance of buildings’ water tanks and pipes. It also advises individuals to maintain domestic water filters properly as they are “an ideal breeding ground for bacterial growth”. Notably, the WSD has banned any filtering apparatus being connected to the mains water supply, fearing contamination.

Getting a lungful We can see with our own eyes that air quality in Hong Kong fluctuates.

We find out where DB’s air and water stand in terms of quality, how they compare to the rest of Hong Kong and whether residents here have anything to worry about.

Quenching your thirst Hong Kong’s mains water supply comes from the Dongjiang River in Guangdong Province and has done since the 1960s. Its quality has long been a source of discussion and conjecture, with users divided over whether it is safe to drink straight from the tap or not. Many opt to install a filter on their tap, some believe there is no need and others flatly refuse to drink tap water and go for bottled water instead.

In Hong Kong, water quality is regulated using the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) guidelines for drinkingwater quality. The government’s Water Supplies Department (WSD) states on its website that “Hong Kong enjoys one of the safest water supplies in the world”. The WSD takes regular samples, which are “continuously monitored by qualified chemists”.

Last year’s tainted water scandal in Hong Kong brought the issue of safety to the forefront, with the water in a host of public housing estates – predominantly in the New Territories – containing levels of lead that exceeded the guidelines provided by the WHO. Old, rusty piping systems and contaminated water-storage tanks were

In Hong Kong, water quality is regulated using WHO guidelines

more than 10ug/l (10 micrograms),” Amy said in an email to residents in September 2015. “I am pleased to inform you that all tests recorded lead levels significantly below this level.”

Amy has not had any complaints about our water supply since and she is a big advocate for its quality. “I myself drink water from the tap and I don’t use a filter,” she says.

The City Owners Committee (COC), however, emphasises the need for constant vigilance. Thomas Gebauer, a member of the COC’s Environmental Protection Sub-committee, explains: “I recommend very strict supervision of the cleaning of roof water tanks by competent, independent experts.

I also recommend taking water samples from time to time in residential dwellings and commercial enterprises.”

On high pollution days, a thick smog blows in from the factories in China, particularly Guangdong Province.

That Hong Kong has the world’s highest traffic density and still relies upon coal-burning power plants is also a major contributor.

According to the Hedley Environmental Index, which measures Hong Kong’s pollution, the territory experienced PM2.5 levels in excess of the WHO short-term limit for the first four months of 2016. Measuring one-thirtieth the width of a human hair, PM2.5 particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and are known to cause illnesses such as lung cancer and heart disease.

Air pollution has emerged as the world’s fourth biggest cause of 

www.arounddb.com October 2016

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IN FOCUS

IN FOCUS

On high pollution days, a thick smog blows in from the factories in China

premature death, according to the results of a joint study by the World Bank and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation. The Hedley Environmental Index also shows that between January 1 and September 1 of this year there were 1,117 premature deaths due to air pollution in Hong Kong alone.

On the upside, the Environmental Protection Department states on its website that air quality in the Pearl River Delta (PRD), including Hong Kong, has improved since 2015 and improved greatly since 2006. “The average annual concentration levels of sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and respirable suspended particulates in the PRD decreased by 19%, 11% and 13% respectively in 2015 when compared with the 2014 levels,” it says.

“Compared with the 2006 levels, the pollutants also showed a significant downward trend with decreases of 72%, 28% and 34% respectively.”

The Hong Kong Air Pollution Index is based on a rating of low to severe.

Hotspots include built-up areas like Causeway Bay, Central and Mongkok, particularly at street level. It follows that Lantau, Lamma and the New Territories usually have low levels of pollution.

That being said, a 2015 study showed that pollution in Tung Chung is among the worst in all of Hong Kong.

Green group Green Power states on its website that: “Tung Chung has the highest air pollution index compared with other areas of Hong Kong, in terms of both number of days and hours when the air pollution index exceeds official standards. Even more shocking is that the air quality of Tung Chung is worse than Kwai Chung and Kwun Tung, which are chock-full of industrial buildings.”

“You have got polluted air coming down from the PRD getting caught against Lantau and aggregating there, as well as the issue of the aircraft,” Merrin Pearse of the Living Islands Movement explains. “But it is not just the airport; it is more the way that the air builds up in that area with the air coming down from the PRD. Tung Chung is between two major shipping channels, so there is also the issue of ships and boats creating air pollution.”

DB water is safe to drink, according to tests conducted in 2015

Here in DB, of course, we create our own pollution, with Thomas outlining

Find more topical local news @

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October 2016 www.arounddb.com

the ferries, buses and other vehicles, even the Disneyland fireworks, as preventable sources. “The ferries are using dirty fuels; they are now perhaps slightly better but you have to hold your nose at the pier,” he says. “Ferries should use ultra-clean fuels and/ or onshore electric power at berth.”

DB’s buses use Euro fuel and operate to European emission standards but Amy is concerned that there is nothing to regulate vehicles entering from outside. “One of the best things about DB is that it is supposed to be a carfree and pollution-free area but during recent years, you can see construction trucks coming in,” she says.

Amy is also pushing that all DB golf carts are converted to either electric or hybrid. “The COC has had a plan to change the golf carts to electric for many years,” she says, “but there has been no improvement at all, they still use gasoline.”

On the upside, Edwin Rainbow, a longtime member of the Environmental Protection Sub-committee, is quick to point out the positives of living in DB, notably the eco-initiatives constantly being advocated by informed residents.

“Hillgrove Village, in its current renovation project, is considering if an investment in solar panels to drive LED lighting in the common areas can self-finance over time,” he says. “On a big enough scale in Hong Kong, such small projects, carefully integrated with other renewable energy supply initiatives, can add up to have a positive effect on air quality.”

www.arounddb.com

ECLIPSE

MOMENTS

AT FULL THROTTLE The global managing partner of Harvey Law Group doesn’t look like a speed freak or a mechanic but appearances can, as they say, be deceiving.

Jean-François Harvey shares his love of kart racing with Patricia Jover

A

head of the third Harvey Law Group (HLG) Kart Race on November 6, founder Jean-François Harvey has 14 karts in his DB North Plaza office. He’s made them all himself with a little help from the event’s main sponsor, Milwaukee Power Tool’s engineering team.

“I like to build things,” says JeanFrançois – Harvey as he is known locally. “Come race day I’m the pit stop. I’m the mechanic. That’s what I do all day long. I sit there with my tools. I put on my hat and hide under the trees… with cuts all over my hands.”

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

The HLG Kart Race sees a 6-foothigh ramp, almost 16-feet long and 8-feet wide, set up along the Seabird Lane cycle lane. While the logistics are fairly simple, participant safety is paramount and Harvey is quick to acknowledge the support of willing volunteers, and of Hong Kong Resort and City Management. Since this is first and foremost a community-driven event, Around DB is the media sponsor, while funds raised will go to local charities.

upon the idea of a kart race because there is something about kart racing that’s so familiar, so simple. So many of us have good memories of it. Also it’s not typical, so people are interested.”

There’s no doubt that Montrealborn Harvey’s passion has struck a chord in DB, and after a strong start in October 2015, interest called for two events this year. In April, 360 heats were held over the course of the day and Harvey expects an even bigger turnout next month.

He is delighted that an improved brake-system, devised by Milwaukee Power Tool, has allowed him to lower the

For Harvey, himself a dad, kids’ enjoyment and participation is the driving factor. “I wanted to find something where every single child would have the same chance of winning,” he says. “In this event, kids are equal whether they are athletic or not. It’s open to everyone but it’s still a real competition.

“The most satisfying part is to hear from parents after the event,” Harvey adds. “We had a parent write to us about how his daughter’s friends came over for two or three days to see her trophy. When you hear things like that, you know you did something right.”

November’s race also sees expanded opportunities for adults, who can race in the open category in their own kit-made karts. “Some will go for style, some for speed, so there are performance and design prizes,” Harvey says. “If you’re building your own kart there are just two rules – it should measure at least 36 inches from the front to the rear axle and it must have… a brake system.”

Riding high So how did the first race in October 2015 come about and what makes the event so popular? “We really didn’t expect so much business when we opened our DB office four years ago and we were looking for a way to give back to the community at large,” Harvey explains. “I finally hit

participant age to seven years old from last edition’s eight.

Jean-François Harvey is hosting the third HLG Kart Race on November 6

Find more local heroes

Find it • Harvey Law Group, www.harveylawcorporation.com

@ www.arounddb.com

www.arounddb.com October 2016

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PARENTING SMARTS

IT’S

Alfresco parties are a good way to hack the hassle

PARTYTIME! Are you feeling pressured to provide the best children’s party ever?

Kate Farr reveals how to cheat your way to the perfect, hassle-free birthday bash

Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

I

f there’s one thing guaranteed to turn the most Zen of parents into a frazzled mess, it’s the annual stress-fest that is a children’s party. From invites to cake, there’s a whole host of elements that need to come together to make a birthday bash run smoothly. Happily for those of us who weren’t blessed with superior organisational skills, just about every element of a children’s party is ripe for hacking.

So here are a few tips, tricks and downright sneaky cheats to help hack the hassle and swerve the stress during your next birthday bash.

Take it from the top Ever found a party invitation crumpled at the bottom of your child’s school bag many weeks after the event? We’ve all been there, and so for the sake of your time and sanity – not to mention the environment – seasoned party hackers should avoid paper invites at all costs.

Choosing an electronic invitation service, such as Paperless Post, keeps the process straightforward and makes your guest list easy to manage digitally.

Take it a step further with Hong Kongbased Twopresents, who not only sends virtual invites to all your guests,

but also gives them the option to send money in lieu of a gift. The funds are then split into two portions, with one for the birthday boy or girl to spend as they choose, and the other being donated to a charity of their choice.

This simple site cuts down on the amount of plastic junk you have to home, saves your guests shopping time, and is the ideal solution for the time-poor parent with a party to hack.

The entertainer While there’s no shortage of professional party entertainers available to delight your little guests, 

www.arounddb.com October 2016

41

PARENTING SMARTS those balloon animals come at a pretty steep price and have to be booked weeks in advance, making a dent in your party budget and upping your planning time. Happily, there are plenty of alternatives for parents wanting to keep a gang of kids amused, and Discovery Bay is the ideal spot for them.

Unless the weather is truly dreadful, hold the party outdoors. This allows kids room to let off steam without destroying your home – just lay on sunscreen and bug spray and you’re good to go. If you have a garden then a water party is great fun, as well as being incredibly easy to organise. Ask invitees to bring spare clothes and a towel, fill a few large storage bins with water and then allocate your guests into teams. Timed wet-sponge relay races, water balloon fights and squirt battles are all sure-fire crowd-pleasers that can easily be refereed by a parent.

Don’t have a garden? Check in with your village management office to see if your local playground is available for hire, or simply hit up Tai Pak Wan. Food, glorious food What’s a party without yummy treats?

Unfortunately, while the additivepacked, sugary snacks that the majority of us picture when it comes to birthday celebrations may go down well with small people, the majority of parents would probably prefer to jettison the junk, keeping things healthy (and avoiding the dreaded sugar-crash tantrum on the way home too!).

Fortunately, festive food is extremely easy to hack while keeping all the fun and flavour.

While Mum and Dad enjoy their celebratory glass of bubbly, children can get in on the act with some sparkles of their own. Add citrus slices to sparkling mineral water for a refreshing tipple, or try infusing whole jugs with mint, cucumber, apple chunks and strawberries for a carbonated

cocktail. Meanwhile, swap salty crisps and pretzels in favour of crudités and veggie-based dips, and, assuming no age and allergy restrictions, switch salted peanuts for almonds, walnuts and cashews gently toasted without oil in the oven.

A water fight is always a winner

And let’s not forget the main event – birthday cake is everyone’s favourite part of a party, but if inch-thick icing transforms your little angel into something you’d prefer to see caged then there’s a hack for that too. If you’re paying a professional, then ‘naked’ cakes – where the sides remain uniced – are currently all the rage in the world of baking and look just as good as they taste.

If you’re brave enough to DIY then it’s easy to find instructions for a low-sugar cake online. Simply search for diabeticfriendly recipes; you can add natural sweetness later with fruit toppings.

Alternatively, for a fun, sugar-and-fat free option, make a watermelon ‘cake’.

Slice off both ends of a melon then pat dry, leaving a bright and beautiful base for the toppings of your choice.

Whipped cream, berries and, if you’re feeling just a little indulgent, rainbow sprinkles all look and taste fantastic!

So there we have it; perfecting a party is easy with just a few sneaky shortcuts.

Now pour yourself a drink – you’ve earned it!

A watermelon ‘birthday cake’ is a fun and healthy option

Find it

• Complete Deelite, www.completedeelite.com • Paperless Post, www.paperlesspost.com • Twopresents, www.twopresents.com

Find more child-centric stories

42

Complete Deelite in Central is a top go-to for children’s birthday cakes, and it also hosts baking parties, where kids decorate pre-baked cookies or cupcakes and then bring them home to enjoy on the big day.

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

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FAMILY MATTERS

TEEN

REBELLION

Photos by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

Underage drinking and illegal drug use are rife in DB. In assessing the situation, Sam Agars considers the causes and provides some level-headed advice for parents

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he fact that Discovery Bay has been a hub for underage drinking and illegal drug use for some time now is not exactly breaking news. Kids, as young as 13, are experimenting with drugs and alcohol in a cycle that is just about as predictable as the coming of tomorrow’s sunrise. In a tight-knit community like DB, young teenagers are hanging out with kids much older

than those they might associate with overseas. Throw in the fact that young people can read up on just about anything over the internet, and the result is a setting in which exposure to drinking and drugging can occur at a very young age.

Most of this we know. The question is whether anything can be done to curb this behaviour, or if it’s in fact time to face the reality that, one way or

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

another, the majority of teenagers are going to embark on this particular rite of passage.

Brazen boozing Whether underage drinking and drug taking is actually increasing in DB, or it just seems that way because of the constant access to information and gossip via local social media, is hard to measure. But according to one

FAMILY MATTERS

DB kids, as young as 13, are experimenting with drugs and alcohol

resident, a 23-year-old, who spent his teenage years in DB, kids are getting more confident and less respectful.

James (not his real name) says one of the main haunts for drinking and drugging has always been Tai Pak Wan, especially on the benches near the swings and by the boat moorings.

“It’s an absolute tip, the rubbish left behind,” James says. “We always used to clean it up, leave no evidence, because otherwise people would take a photo and it would end up on one of the DB forums. Kids just don’t care nowadays.”

According to Sophie Garderet, a DBbased psychotherapy practitioner and mother of two teens, it is all too easy.

“Kids here in DB can buy alcohol freely and many of them are given a lot of money so they can also afford to buy drugs if they choose to,” she says.

Just how easy it is for underage people to buy alcohol in DB would astound some parents. “7-Elevens don’t bat an

eyelid; you wouldn’t even have to show ID,” James says. “Wellcome’s the same.

There used to be a Filipino shop in DB Plaza that would sell beer, vodka and cigarettes. We’d be 16 and buying a bottle of vodka for HK$20.”

According to our sources, marijuana is the most popular drug with teens in DB, “there’s heaps around”, but harder substances, such as methamphetamine and cocaine, are also easy to come by for those who want them.

Factoring in peer pressure Young people have always experimented and pushed boundaries out of pure curiosity and it is human nature to want to try something for yourself after hearing about it from your peers, or even reading about it in the tabloids. Nowadays, however, kids often don’t get the chance to try things in their own time, with peer pressure playing a huge part in growing up.

“As a society we have changed and it

has become the norm to start drinking at an early age, so people try to stay with the trend,” reveals one 17-yearold, Discovery Bay-based student interviewed. “They don’t want to feel left out. At first it starts with only a certain few, but as you get older it ends up being a lot of kids. By Year 13, it becomes normal.”

James echoes these thoughts: “Peer pressure is a huge factor, as well as seeing older brothers, sisters and friends doing it. Young teens think it’s cool, and they want to do it too.’”

Is DB the problem?

It’s obvious that DB is as good a place as any for kids to get drunk, experiment with drugs, and go under the radar all at the same time.

“Parents are not always supervising their children,” Sophie says. “Some parents are happy to just give them money and let them go out freely. For some kids, the parents are out and 

www.arounddb.com October 2016

45

FAMILY MATTERS

helpers don’t monitor where they are.

There is a lot of freedom for children here in DB because it is said to be a safe place.” In addition to Tai Pak Wan, popular haunts for teens to indulge in illicit pastimes are reportedly Sam Pak Wan and certain out-of-the-way spots in DB North Plaza.

communicate as much as they can with their children. They have to know what is going on outside and with good communication, kids are fine.”

There is also the consideration that the notorious DB lifestyle might be backfiring. “An issue some children have is that they see their parents drink and don’t understand why they can’t do it,” Sophie says.

While a lot of the time experimenting with drugs and alcohol is just that, experimenting, DB has seen cases where teens’ habits have escalated into abuse. “It’s not been such a problem with drinking, to my knowledge,” our teen source reveals, “but there are drug tests and students do get caught and expelled.”

It’s also oft-repeated that DB teens simply don’t have enough to do – that there are insufficient social activities on offer – and that boredom leads to early experimentation with drugs and alcohol. This factor is negated, however, by our teen source. “I think kids would do it regardless of what else is on offer in DB,” she says.

The teen believes that the majority of her peers who dabble in this sort of thing do not suffer from the effects in their everyday lives. Sophie backs this up, saying: “All the kids I see with alcohol or drug issues are trying to cover more serious issues. Some kids will come to school drunk but they have serious issues with their

parents or society. They are a very small minority.”

Not that this helps parents sitting at home wondering where their children might be and what they might be doing. A DB father of three, interviewed, believes that monitoring what teenagers do is near impossible, and that education really is the key.

“All we can do as parents, obviously with the help of schools, is provide our kids with as much information as possible and hope they can work it out for themselves,” he says. “As far as drinking and experimenting with marijuana goes, a lot of the time it’s a relatively safe practice. It’s a different story when it comes to kids dropping an unknown pill into their mouths, hoping it’s clean Ecstasy or something of the like. Once they know about the dangers, we just have to hope they are smart enough to connect the dots.”

Either way, priorities seem to be out of whack. As James points out: “If the security guards see a teen skating in DB Plaza, they will stop him straightaway, but if they see a 16-year-old walking with a beer they probably wouldn’t say anything.”

Advice for parents If you accept that, one way or another, teenagers will experiment with drinking if they want to, what is the best way to handle the situation? This issue is much debated among DB parents and methods employed range from allowing teens a glass or two of wine at dinner, to boycotting booze altogether.

“Today kids are well educated, schools have taught them about drugs and alcohol, but some of them will do it to have their own experience,” Sophie says. “I believe parents should

Peer pressure is a contributing factor and DB kids grow up fast

Our thanks go to the DB teens who, with their parents’ permission, agreed to re-enact the drinking scenes used to illustrate this article.

Families seeking advice can contact Sophie Garderet of Brief Therapy HK at brieftherapyhk@gmail.com.

Find more child-centric stories

46

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

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TALKING TALKING POINTS POINTS

Scottie Callaghan in training on the Lantau trails

Thomas Kiprotich pounding the pavements in DB

Katia Kucher on the trails above DB

Erin Bowland, co-organiser of the D 10km Run for Charit

Photos by Ai Lau and Kirk Kenny, and courtesy of Erin Bowland, Scottie Callaghan and Katia Kucher

BORN TO RUN Its wide open spaces, proximity to the trails and quiet roads make DB a runners’ haven. Sam Agars catches up with five local enthusiasts to find out what makes them tick

R

unning and Discovery Bay go hand in hand and have done for decades, and there seems to be a disproportionate number of highly motivated runners here who drive themselves to truly stratospheric levels of fitness. The fact that recent years have seen a massive increase in running events throughout Hong Kong only adds fuel to the fire.

Tung Chung resident Richard Cowley, who used to work for Action Asia and is now with Asia Sports Connection (the folks who organise the TransLantau), has seen the sport take hold in Hong Kong first hand. “Trail running especially has just exploded,” he says. “Literally now there are seven or eight races in a weekend and they all

sell out. Next March, we expect more than 2,000 athletes to compete in the TransLantau.”

of the reason for the sport’s growth.

“There’s now something for everyone, regardless of ability,” he says.

Through his DB-based running programme KIPMOVIN, Thomas Kiprotich has seen the follow-on effect this has had here. “Since I arrived in 2008, I’ve noticed many more people starting to run, as well as those who have been long-time runners who have found other types of running to enjoy, such as trail running or adventure running,” he says.

A healthy addiction

Kenyan Thomas, who trained at the prestigious Ngong Academy in Kenya and broke the all-comers record in the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon in 2011, believes the plethora of options for runners is part

The concept of healthy living has had a big impact on why people are more inclined to head out for a run, with awareness of what is good and bad for one’s body at an all-time high. Also, with races so well organised nowadays, it is easy for people to get involved and runners feel a heightened sense of achievement when completing an official event.

“People want to feel good and it is a lifestyle choice,” Richard says. “The drinking culture is out the window.

People are looking for something new 

www.arounddb.com October 2016

49

TALKING POINTS

to do on the weekend and healthy living has had a major impact on their choices.”

For DBer Katia Kucher, who runs personal training and fitness business d.BeFit, it is clear just how important running is in the everyday lives of residents. “Get moving in the morning and you feel so much better for the rest of the day,” she says. “You have more energy and it can help you focus mentally. Running can get addictive, that adrenaline feeling, so when your body gets used to that and then it lacks it, it’s almost like a withdrawal.”

For Thomas, who has competed in races all over the globe, DB truly is ideal for runners of all abilities and for all forms of distance running. “DB is such a great running spot because it’s safe, you can run very early or very late and not have to worry,” he says.

“It is here for the local people so they can train the route and then aim towards their best time because they know the roads,” she says. “They use it as a motivator, to get the training done. That’s what’s always kept me exercising, the looming threat of a race you’ve signed up for.”

The perfect locale

“Running is very efficient and it’s easy,” says Katia, who has been a runner most of her life and has been operating d.BeFit since 2011. “All you need is a pair of trainings shoes; it’s just very easy and low cost. You have the mountains right here and the beaches, and you can go up and down hills on the roads, so it’s great for training.”

Richard Cowley competing in the GreenRace Plover Cove in September

“There’s a great balance of road and trail, so you don’t have to run the same route every day. To have both road

Registration is now open for this year’s DB 10km Run for Charity, and those looking to compete on November 12 are already pounding the pavements. “Get into a routine and start slowly,” advises Katia who, with a 100-kilometre ultra-marathon under her belt, is well-qualified to speak on the subject. “To run three days a week is very healthy. Increase your mileage weekly, no more than 10% a week and you will progress. People can progress very quickly.”

Find it

• d.BeFit, www.dbefit.com

• DB 10km Run for Charity, www.dbrunforcharity.org

• KIPMOVIN, www.kipmovin.com

• TransLantau, www.translantau.com

Find more clubs and activities

50

Running is also very social in DB, with plenty of like-minded people to keep you on track. “I like to do it for the social aspect,” says DB 10km Run for Charity co-organiser Erin Bowland.

“I find I’m a bit more motivated if I’m with someone.”

The DB 10km Run for Charity, held annually in November, has become something of a local institution since it started 11 years ago and Erin, who organises the race with founder Kobi Janssen, has seen the number of participants (most of whom hail from DB) grow to a staggering 500.

South Lantau resident Scottie Callaghan, co-owner of Redback Coffee in SoHo and a running buddy of Katia’s, talks openly about his compulsion to run. “I’m addicted to the endorphin rush – the runner’s high,” he says. “For hours afterwards, if you’ve really pushed yourself, you feel elated, hungry, thirsty, excited.

Nowadays, just looking at the mountains, my heart beats faster.” Like Katia, Scottie is a regular competitor in Lantau’s big local trail races, including the TransLantau, Salomon LG70, Northface 100 and MSIG 88.

One of the reasons behind running’s wide-ranging popularity is its accessibility, another is the ease with which individuals can get involved.

This is amplified in DB because of the quiet roads and myriad of trails on our doorstep.

and trail on your doorstep is a very great blessing.”

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

@ www.arounddb.com

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ESCAPES

Borobudur Buddhist stupa and temple complex

WONDERFUL INDONESIA

Photos courtesy of Flight Centre Hong Kong

No exploration of the world’s largest archipelago is complete without a stay in Bali. But venture beyond and Indonesia has a wealth of wonders that rival some of the most famous in the world.

Cecilia Yee and Kathryn Gardner report When it comes to Indonesia, Bali remains top of mind but intrepid travellers are waking up to Java, a still somewhat untravelled realm replete with paddy fields, coffee plantations, active volcanoes and historic sites.

Mount Bromo, at 2,329 metres, is the new go-to destination in East Java, while Borobudur Buddhist stupa and temple complex is the number one must-see in Central Java.

With 10 days to hand, it’s easy to get all three of these Indonesian hotspots on your itinerary, taking in Borobudur and Mount Bromo before heading to the beaches of Bali for some well-

Blissful Borobudur

The bell-like domes (stupas) contain Buddha statues

deserved downtime. Alternatively, each destination makes for an easy and enjoyable weekend getaway.

Garuda Indonesia offers daily flights through Jakarta to the bustling city of Yogyakarta in Central Java and from here you are just an hour’s drive from your first destination – Borobudur Buddhist stupa and temple complex.

The single largest Buddhist structure anywhere on Earth, Borobudur dates back to the 8th century and is famous for its nine stacked platforms and bell-like domes (stupas) containing Buddha statues.

Often compared to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, it’s impossible not to be 

www.arounddb.com October 2016

53

ESCAPES

Mount Bromo is one of the most active volcanoes in the world

drawn to Borobudur’s mystical lure, and the remarkable attention to detail that went into its construction.

Like Angkor, Borobudur was lost for centuries – hidden under layers of volcanic ash and thick jungle growth – only to be unearthed in 1814 under the auspices of the then governor of Indonesia, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles. After extensive restoration, Borobudur was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991.

You can opt for a guided tour or simply purchase an entrance ticket and make your own way. Since there’s only one site to explore, Borobudur is much easier to take in than Angkor but just as mind blowing. Set as it is in the heart of the verdant Kedu Plain, the backdrop of mighty active volcanoes only adds to the experience.

The fact that there’s an Aman resort – the Amanjiwo Resort – just down the road from Borobudur is, in my book, a deal clincher. Amanjiwo’s luxurious suites offer up wonderful views of the temple complex, and there’s a spa, stunning pool area and great food. Visit www.aman.com.

Mesa Stila Resort, just 45 minutes from Borobudur, is an excellent alternative with vast, family-friendly villas. A former coffee plantation,

54

been entirely blown off and its crater spews white, sulphurous smoke.

Laut Pasir, a sea of fine volcanic sand

Mesa Stila specialises in fitness, health and wellness but has also remained true to its roots. The resort still produces its own coffee, grown and roasted onsite. Visit www.mesahotelsandresorts.com.

Volcanic Mount Bromo Next stop, still way off the beaten track, is Surabaya in East Java. You can fly from Hong Kong to Surabaya direct with Cathay Pacific and from there, it’s just a five-hour drive to the Tengger massif, home to one of the most awe-inspiring mountains in Indonesia: Mount Bromo.

At 2,329 metres, Mount Bromo is not the highest peak in the massif but, sandwiched between Mount Batok and Mount Semeru, it stands out majestically. One of the most active volcanoes in the world, its top has

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

Guides drive you up to the viewpoint at Kingkong Hill (a better, less frequented option than Penanjakan Hill) and it’s best to get there before sunrise, ahead of the other tourists and local hawkers. In the pre-dawn hours, you glimpse the mountains in silhouette, a hint of smoke and hundreds and thousands of stars above. As the sun rises, the magical, almost ethereal landscape gradually reveals itself.

Next up, your guide will drive you down to Laut Pasir, the sea of fine volcanic sand surrounding Mount Bromo, where locals and their horses wait to escort you to the crater.

Here, should you opt to hike the 30 or so minutes to the summit, you are rewarded by truly magnificent views across Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.

While there are a surprising number of five-star hotels in Surabaya, Hotel Majapahit, with its immaculate landscaped gardens, gets my vote.

An imposing colonial mansion built in 1910, it retains its old-world charm, while boasting modern facilities and a superb spa. Visit www.hotel-majapahit.com.

ESCAPES

Beach life in Bali’s Nusa Dua

Bountiful Bali The biggest tourist destination in Indonesia – possibly in South East Asia – Bali can’t promise you a desert island experience but it has not lost its fabled paradisiacal appeal. The combination of friendly people and a magnificently visual culture, infused with spirituality, truly engages visitors. For this reason, getting there is easy: Cathay Pacific, Garuda Indonesia and Hong Kong Airlines provide direct, daily flights to and from Hong Kong.

Some 144 kilometres east to west, and 80 kilometres north to south, Bali’s diverse topology takes you from the active volcano Mount Agung in the east, all the way to the low plains of the south, and across the lush forests and stepped rice paddies of the island’s centre. The beaches of the north are mostly black sand, while the tourist beaches of the south are white, and the entire island is surrounded by coral reefs, making it perfect for diving and snorkelling.

If you’re in Bali simply to relax, swim and eat, stay in Nusa Dua, a secure, purpose-built tourist enclave at the island’s southern tip. The white-sand beaches are wonderful – long and

resorts but if you want some time away from the kids, check out Kayumanis Villas. This adult-only property is an oasis for couples wanting to relax in the privacy of their own private villa. Visit www.kayumanis.com.

Scenic and artsy Ubud

safe for swimming – and water-sports activities abound. The ‘real’ Bali of rice fields and small villages is a good drive away but, should you feel like getting out and about, a boat trip to Serangan Island (Turtle Island) is a must. As the name suggests, Serangan is a turtle conservation area, and the glassbottomed boats allow for non-invasive observation of marine life.

Nusa Dua is home to many of Bali’s large, all-inclusive and family-friendly

With a few days to spare, if you’re seeking a little culture, head to Ubud, a charming village set in the cool mountains of southern central Bali.

It represents everything that attracts people to the island, from the scenic rice fields and plunging valleys, to the thriving arts-and-crafts communities.

I like to stay at Alila Ubud. Visit www.alilahotels.com. Located on top of a gently terraced mountain, with magnificent views over the Ayung River Valley, this idyllic little getaway provides a peaceful atmosphere for those who want to escape and just relax. Who says Bali – or Indonesia for that matter – is all about the beach?

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

Find more exciting travel destinations

@ www.arounddb.com

www.arounddb.com October 2016

55

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

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

It’s time for some growth and knowledge.

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

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

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

CONTACT ME

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EUTS

HK HAPPENINGS

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH! www.jetsetmag.com

FINE ART ASIA

Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com

5 October 2-

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai Hosting some of the world’s leading international galleries, Fine Art Asia is recognised as Asia’s leading fine art fair. Museum-quality artworks spanning over 5,000 years of cultural history, from ancient Chinese bronzes through to contemporary art, are on display. Tickets, available at the door, start at HK$50. Visit www.fineartasia.com.

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Shatin Town Hall, Shatin

9

October 7-

www.finearts.uvic.ca

Lovers, fairies, mischief and moonlight conspire in Shakespeare’s classic tale, vividly retold by the Royal New Zealand Ballet. This entrancing Asia premiere, set to Mendelssohn’s famous score, is choreographed by acclaimed British choreographer Liam Scarlett.

For tickets, starting at HK$420, visit www.urbtix.hk.

CURTIS ON TOUR

HONG KONG TENNIS OPEN

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai

Victoria Park, Causeway Bay

October 7

Premiere Performances’ 201617 Recital Series kicks off with a performance by musicians from Philadelphia’s prestigious Curtis Institute of Music.

Included in the line-up is elite classical guitarist Jason Vieaux, whose most recent Curtis solo album, Play, won the 2015 Grammy Award for Best Classical Instrumental Solo.

Master classes, interactive programmes and community engagement activities are also on offer. For more information, visit www.pphk.org; for tickets, starting at HK$90, head to www.hkticketing.com.

At the Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open, more than 50 of the world’s best female tennis players compete in both singles and doubles matches for prize money of US$250,000 (HK$1.9 million). Topseeded players include Caroline Garcia, Angelique Kerber, Kristina Mladenovic and Wang Qiang. For tickets, starting at HK$220, visit www.cityline.com.

To find out more, visit www.hktennisopen.hk.

-16

October 8

HONG KONG ePRIX

Hong Kong Central Harbourfront, Central

-9

October 8

Photo courtesy of Formula E

The inaugural Hong Kong ePrix is set to electrify punters with exhilarating, emission-free, international racing and a supercharged line-up of world-class musical acts and entertainment. Tickets to the eVillage start at HK$150, admission to the Observation Wheel Grandstand starts at HK$1,190. Visit www.ticketflap.com. www.arounddb.com October 2016

www.alchetron.com

59

HK HAPPENINGS

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

BOWIE/ COLLECTOR

HALLOWEEN HIJINKS

-15 October 12

One Pacific Place, Queensway

Sotheby’s is presenting David Bowie’s personal art collection ahead of a threepart London sale in November. The Thin White Duke’s remarkable anthology includes more than 200 works by important 20th Century British artists, including Frank Auerbach, Damien Hirst and Henry Moore. Admission is free. For more information, email bowie@sothebys.com.

1

October 2

CENTRAL RAT RACE

Chater Road, Central Central Rat Race sees teams of executives, dressed in business attire (and running shoes), navigate eight different obstacles, passing a briefcase ‘baton’ as they race their way to the finish. This fun spectator event raises funds for MINDSET, which supports mental health-related organisations and projects both locally and on the mainland. To find out more, visit www.centralratrace.com.

October 16

hongkongvolunteer.wordpress.com

www.youngwitness.com.au

DRESS PINK DAY Wherever you are

Wear pink to raise awareness and funds to support women with breast cancer in response to Cancer Fund’s annual breast cancer campaign, Pink Revolution. For as little as HK$120, participants can sponsor a Pink Recovery Pack, which is sent to the bedsides of breast cancer patients who have just undergone surgery. Find out more and make a donation at pink.cancer-fund.org.

RACE TO FEED HK Science and Technology Park, Pak Shek Kok Heifer Hong Kong’s annual fundraiser Race to Feed includes an individual 10-kilometre run, a 3-kilometre family fun run and a 1-kilometre relay race. Funds raised at this family-friendly event support Heifer’s poverty alleviation project in Yunnan Province.

Launched in 2006, Race to Feed has attracted over 5,000 participants and raised over HK$43 million to help struggling families in rural China. To get involved, visit www.heiferhk.org.

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October 2016 www.arounddb.com

With over a thousand ghosts and ghouls taking part, Ocean Park Halloween Fest is Asia’s largest Halloween celebration. Themed attractions include the cavernous Palace of Death, the depraved Project Deathway stage show, and Sugary Spook Village, the longest, outdoor, trick-or-treat trail in Hong Kong. Two dedicated Scare Zones have been built for the first-time ever this year, and there’s also a brandnew Halloween Fest smartphone app, Halloween Ghost Hunt, to download. To find out more, visit www.oceanpark.com.hk.

Over at Hong Kong Disneyland, kids can take part in the Mickey & Friends Costume Party and Mickey’s Halloween Time Cavalcade. Mickey, Minnie and Goofy appear atop three giant Jack-o-lantern whirlies together with a host of parade performers.

As darkness descends on the resort, evil powers take charge, towering over the crowd, and scowling down on all who dare to look at them. The grand and ghastly finale sees Maleficent appear on the castle walls, where she transforms into a blood-curdling, firebreathing dragon. To find out more, visit www.hongkongdisneyland.com.

ut Througho October

3 October 2

www.heiferhk.org

curiositiesandtales.blogspot.com

International International Funfilled Funfilled Day Day Sat. 22nd October, 2016

Event Time & Venue : Discovery Bay (DB): Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm Venue: Cafe Duvet - Outdoor (Shop G06, D'Deck) Tung Chung (TC): Time: 10:00am to 12:00nn TC International Play Centre and Kindergarten: Venue: G/F, Seaview Crescent, No.8 Waterfront Road.

TC Primary School: Venue: G/F, Shop A-D, Seaview Crescent, No.8 Waterfront Road.

Enquiry:

DB International Play Centre DB Kindergarten DB Primary School TC International Play Centre and Kindergarten TC Primary School

2987 2987 2914 2987

8028 8088 2202 8070

2915 0666

For school information, please visit: www.discoverymind.edu.hk

COMMUNITY SNAPS!

DB FACES

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

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

Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar! Congratulations to last month’s winner: Vicky Keen (@vicloukeen)

T

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

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

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH & TEENS

Natural, Eco-Friendly, Replacement-Free Water Solution from Austria.

GRADE UR Free Consultation Hotline: (+852) 2314-2608 enquiry@grandertechnology.com www.GranderTechnology.com

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

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com EMPLOYMENT

FINANCE & INSURANCE

HOME SERVICES

DELIVERY PERSON/ MESSENGER

AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS

FTC RELOCATIONS

Michael, a HK resident, is available to deliver documents & small parcels around HK. Full/ part time.

Please leave a message on 9145 6731

Need to lodge your Australian tax return?

If you are an expat or collect rental from Australian property, you must lodge an annual return.

Let us do it for you here in HK. Contact Helen Wong, Australasian Taxation Services on 3571 8700, helen.wong@smats.net, or visit www.smats.net

NURSE WANTED

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

EMPLOYER LOOKING FOR A HELPER? OR HELPER LOOKING FOR AN EMPLOYER?

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY

Quit smoking quickly.

Divorce/ Post-Divorce Coaching.

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

Place your free classifieds ad here.

Email info@baymedia.com.hk

BEAUTIFUL MIND THERAPY & FAMILY SERVICES

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

If you want to stop, we can help.

No dues or fees.

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

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

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

The experts in local & international moving.

World-class service – competitive rates. FTC also provides short-term storage & handyman services.

Operating throughout DB & Lantau. Call 2814 1658, or visit www.ftc.hk

PETS

DOG SERVICES

Home boarding, behaviour modification, Tui Na Massage & grooming. Reliable & honest.

100% safety record over the past 11 years.

Call Dave Chan on 9872 5439, or visit www.quoquoclub.com

RETAIL EXPAT PAINTER & DECORATOR

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

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

ABBELIO WINES

Great value! High scoring!

Wines from around the world!

Free delivery & special offer for Discovery Bay residents.

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

KIDS

EARLY ADVENTURES PLAYGROUP

A dedicated playgroup with the emphasis on learning through play.

Activities to stimulate all areas of development.

Come & look at our facilities.

Classes for kids from 20 months to 4 years.

Morning & afternoon sessions.

Call 9511 2107, or visit www.earlyadventures.net

PETS HOME SERVICES AKASH MOVING

Local packing & moving service.

Best move – best rate.

Akash offers a packing/ unpacking service, provides boxes & packing materials & makes small deliveries.

Call 2421 8088, www.akash.hk

THE PLACE WHERE THE PETS GO - PETCODB

Grooming & Pet Care Services.

Trust us to provide loving & safe care for the ones you love!

Contact 2914 0382, info@petcodb.com.

Visit www.petcodb.com

Deadline for November issue CLASSIFIEDS

October 15

Greenland Pest Control

SINCE 1997

OUR SERVICES

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

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

DOG & CAT GROOMING ( BY APPOINTMENT ) PET FOOD & ACCESSORIES SUPPLIES CAT SITTING SERVICE FREE DAILY DELIVERY Ground floor 11B, Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay (next to Island Vet) Tel: 2987 0428 / Fax : 2914 1313 / E-mail : petsgallerydb@yahoo.com.hk Open from 9:00 am till 7:30 pm (Mon - Sun)

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com

Meet our pet of the Month

DONG YI Mypetshop in the North Plaza.

Shop G09-92 Siena Ave. DB North Plaza

Tel: 2987 8873

Open Daily 10am – 7:30pm

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

TUITION & COURSES

CHINESE (MANDARIN & CANTONESE), MATHEMATICS & ENGLISH

MANDARIN CHINESE CLASSROOM

Personal Professional Tutoring Service.

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

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

Lessons for adults & children, individually & in small groups.

Any level/ time/ purpose.

In the Greens.

Call 6071 9643, or visit www.dbmandarin.com

MATHS TUITION

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

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

Call 5321 4400

LEARN SPANISH

Native speaker, DELE examiner.

Experienced teacher.

IB, IGCSE, A-Levels & HKDSE Business Spanish & courses for adults.

Flexible schedule & locations.

(Special offers to students who live in DB & Tung Chung.)

For enquiries please contact Mr Erik R at 9666 9511, rerikm@hotmail.com

•Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents

SINGING LESSONS

• Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients

University of West London Musical Theatre graduate, an ex Phantom of the Opera (opera singer), provides singing lessons for children & adults.

Based in DB, close to the pier.

Call 5699 5979, or visit www.bernadettenagy.com

• English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Russian, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counsellors

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

SPANISH

Millions of people around the world have lost weight and kept it off with the one-to-one support from their Cambridge Consultant. Why not join them!

MA in Applied Linguistics – University lecturer

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

Lessons in Discovery Bay on: TUE, THU & SAT

info@cambridgeweightplan.hk or call 25257165

Contact: Tel: 9104 3770 carinapicomartinez@gmail.com

BEEF JERKY, BEEF BILTONG AND PORK CRACKLING

HIGH PROTEIN SNACKS WITH NO ADDED MSG

The perfect snacks for sharing and enjoying together T: E: W: : :

+852 6647 2292 gillian@gmtfoodshk.com gmtfoodshk.com @gillian_GMT /gmtfoods

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

LANTAU PROPERTY

APARTMENTS IN TUNG CHUNG

2-BED IN CHERISH COURT, DB

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

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

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

Contact Jacqueline 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

DELUXE DB SERVICED APARMENTS

NICELY DECORATED DB APARTMENTS

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

Contact Annie on 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished.

Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

HAWKS NEST THAILAND FOR RENT

Fully equipped 2-bedroom villa for rent, including rooftop patio with outdoor kitchen, Jacuzzi tub, pool & internet. Situated just south of Hua Hin Thailand, can arrange Bangkok pick-up. For details, visit www.hawksnestthailand.com or email villa@hawksnestthailand.com

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

PERTHSHIRE COTTAGE FOR SALE Beautiful 150-year-old, 3-bed cottage in Perthshire, with oak-beamed lounge & dining room, modern kitchen, bathroom & shower. Ideal summer cottage/ holiday or retirement home, with lovely gardens. Offers over £375,000 (HK$4.3M) considered. Contact (44) 17964 82527 or bobbiemcgraw@outlook.com for details

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

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

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

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

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October 2016 www.arounddb.com

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

Free online at www.aussieproperty.com

View Discovery Bay short-term rentals

@

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

SOUTH LANTAU

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel

FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

2428 2566 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

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

2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4187 2286 6238 6504 4208 2286 6898 3520 0848 3602 8808 2626 0181 2886 3646 2109 1927 2988 8129 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 2330 0000 2286 6618 2886 3156 2286 6868 3969 2500 2109 1297 2109 0612 2802 8000

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

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

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

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

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488 HOTELS

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

3969 1888 3602 8888 2286 8888

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

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

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

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

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

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1999

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 9783 5840 HOTELS

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES

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

LEARNING CENTRES

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

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

HEALTH & WELLBEING

HEALTH & WELLBEING

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

LANTAU NUMBERS

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

PROPERTY AGENCIES

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

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

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

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

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

9662 1747 2984 0060 6108 8471 9025 3949 6351 8923 TRANSPORTATION

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

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

DB NUMBERS

COMMUNITY & HEALTH Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza BMSE, North Plaza Catholic Church (Trinity Chapel) DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Health Cares IMI (Natural Medicine Clinic), North Plaza Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Development Practice The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza

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

Future Stars Dance Academy

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

2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

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

2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk

3102 2977 2320 1238 3480 1348 2987 8460

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

9327 0507

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

2987 4401 2987 7486 2448 1180 2987 4089 2947 9092

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Playtime Kids DB Playgroup run by Montessori-trained teacher. From 6 months to 4 years. 2623 4099; 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com

Parsons White Wealth Management

2987 1373 2914 2378 2987 8898 2987 1777

OTHER SERVICES

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

Harvey Law Group International Canadian Law Firm in DB North Plaza offering you customised legal services on the many aspects of your personal and professional life 2416 8618 www.harveylawcorporation.com Gillian florist, North Plaza Flight Centre, North Plaza Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

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

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS

The Beat

Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management An expert financial service of distinct quality, integrity and excellence located at DB North Plaza.

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

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

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

The Stephen Putnam Practice

AQUABLU

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

Tree of Joy

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

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

Apple Travel

Island Dance

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

MULTIMEDIA

LEARNING CENTRES

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

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

2160 6556 2233 3000 2987 1851

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

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

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

LEARNING CENTRES

7+1 Creative Club

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

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

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

6108 9131 woodentotsdb@gmail.com 7+1 Creative Club Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet Early Adventures Playgroup Eye Level Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Kumon, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza Links Parenting, North Plaza Little Explorers English For Kids Mandarin for Munchkins, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House Int’l Pre-School Sunshine House Kindergarten, North Plaza Treasure House

October 2016 www.arounddb.com

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

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

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

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

2987 2298 2295 8288 2987 8203 2987 0966 2591 1426 2987 2848 2172 6111 2987 0036 2987 2915 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688

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

2987 2886

Koh Tomyums

2987 0767

La Création Bakery

2987 1829

McSorley’s Ale House

2987 8280

Mirch Masala, North Plaza

2987 1337

Moofish, North Plaza

2987 6318

Nevale Kitchen, North Plaza

2172 7099

Pacific Coffee

2987 1662

Paisano’s, North Plaza

2673 4445

Peony Chinese Restaurant

2500 1950

Salt & Pepper

2336 8001

Solera

2555 0772

Subway

2914 0005

Super Super

2914 1308

The Venue Brazil Churrascaria & Bar

2777 8411

Uncle Russ, DB Plaza

2682 0068

Uncle Russ, North Plaza

2682 8110

Zak’s

2987 6232

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

2987 0132 www.dbcricketclub.com

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

Embody Classical Pilates, Yoga and more!

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

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

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

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

TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES Babyland Bo Bo House EpicLand Toysland

2997 8080 2987 4230 2441 0098 2987 7859

DB NUMBERS

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

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

WELLBEING

Ingredients of Wellness – Mindfulness Training Teaching young people skills to direct attention, to be calmer and concentrate better. angie@ingredientsofwellness.com 9048 5425 www.ingredientsofwellness.com

M Spa

TRANSPORT SERVICES

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

2987 0614

Limousine Rental

Limo service in HK & China • pick up from / to DB Tunnel • direct transfer to SZ / GZ Airport 5303 3489 / 9654 0899 limo9689@gmail.com DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services 24-hour Customer Service Hotline China Light & Power Emergency China Light & Power Information Line

2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351 2987 6348 2987 0208 2987 9368 3651 2345 2728 8333 2678 2678

Nailed It Professional artificial nail services in DB 2987 2266 Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care Nest Care, North Plaza Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch

2987 0283 2987 2060 2499 8826 2987 4112 2987 9198

View the business directory

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

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

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

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

@ www.arounddb.com

www.arounddb.com October 2016

75

OUT THERE

I

’ve never had a baby – that much should be self-evident – which is not to say that I’ve never had children. The process of adoption, for a single bloke anyway, seemed to me the same as having kids ‘naturally’. Over the years, I have quelled fears of prospective adoptive parents worried about what their shiny new adoptee might look like, suggesting that neither would they have any idea how their pre-born might turn out. This must be nature’s way of ensuring the birthing process through to its conclusion.

It is estimated that around 2,127 babies are born here in Delivery Bay every month. Well, OK, that’s not true, I made it up. But I’m sure there are at least… lots. In times of weird imaginings, I see hundreds of baby strollers crashing into each other in DB Plaza like dodgems at a fun fair.

Orbit, Graco, Bugaboo and Maclaren – the modern ‘stroller deluxe’, as seen in DB, comes in at around HK$7,000 a pop. I (cleverly) avoided such outlays by lucking in on my two when they were at least ambulatory and light enough to carry short distances. My charges were pretty cool, because that’s what babies – even slightly bigger babies – are. But that was a thousand years ago and I can’t help thinking they missed out (on a Maclaren).

Better than a Lamborghini

Photo courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

The strollers babes zoom around in today are beyond cool. There must be as many brands of these wagons as there are tots to ride them. There are simple, ergonomic fold-away jobs that fit baby perfectly, rather like a perfectly stocked mini bar. And then there are giants, as big as obesity, with wheels off

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Bugaboo strollers come in at around HK$7,000

BABES ON WHEELS Multi-terrain and fully customisable, light, compact and super-fast, the modern ‘stroller deluxe’ is a fascinating creature. Peter Sherwood advises DB babies to enjoy the ride a golf cart. Fitted with an engine, they could carry an entire family and pick up paying passengers.

Many of these specialist chariots are better built than a customised Lamborghini. But where do baby carriages go when there are no more babies left to carry? I’m told that savvy mums look to the secondary market in collectables on eBay – or DB Mums.

And there are even pram museums (‘pram’ is short for ‘perambulator’, a four-wheeled baby carriage) in a number of countries.

So, listen up little ones. Soon you’ll be ejected from your personal transport.

Before you can ask, ‘can I play in the plaza?’ you’ll be old enough to be contemptuous of a weekly schedule that includes private maths tuition, ballet classes, tennis coaching, karate, lessons in the Min Chinese dialect – and tap dancing. With five hours of homework a night, you can forget those dreams of skateboarding and hanging with your friends. Make the most of being wheeled around before they start piling on you the dead weight of Hong Kong expectations.

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

Find more from Peter October 2016 www.arounddb.com

@ www.arounddb.com