2016 / 2017
DINING • LIVING • PETS • SPORTS • PASTIMES • EDUCATION • HEALTH • BEAUTY • SERVICES • EXCURSIONS • COMMUNITY
Century 21 Newcourt Realty 世 紀 21 新 域 地 產
C-001576
愉景灣愉景廣場一樓113 號舖
Your Discovery Bay Specialist since 1989
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Shop 113, 1F, DB Plaza, DB dbay@c21newcourt.com
Natilie Chan
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2987 9729
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www.c21newcourt.com
06 / BEAUTY OF LANTAU A visual celebration 2016 /2017
13 / DINING From D’Deck to Pui O
Publisher Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk
06
21 / LIVING Realtors, movers and more
Managing editor Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk
33 / PETS Rescue centres, clinics and vets
Edition coordinator Claire Severn claire@baymedia.com.hk
37 / SPORTS Dance, drama, art and music
33
Graphic designer Andrew Spires andrew@baymedia.com.hk
53 / PASTIMES Dance, drama, art and music
Advertising & sales Lissa Morris lissa@baymedia.com.hk Monika Carruthers monika@baymedia.com.hk Contributors Sam Agars Anne Murphy Cohen Emily Dowd (intern) Annette M. Houlihan Patricia Jover Martin Lerigo Sharon Lesley Le Roux Charlotte Veldkamp (intern) Mina Weight Samantha Wong Photography Leah Ahmad Terry Chow Tim Draper www.facebook.com/ lifehouseimage Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com Jason Pagliari
97 / HEALTH Medical and holistic centres
4 The Best of Lantau
103 / BEAUTY Hair salons and spas
53
109 / SERVICES From photography to finance 115 / EXCURSIONS Day trips and outings 61
119 / COMMUNITY Charities, churches and events 128 / MARKET PLACE More local service providers
Printing Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion, 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong Disclaimer The views expressed in The Best of Lantau are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.
61 / EDUCATION From infant to teen, plus a supplement on secondary schooling
37
134 / LAST WORD Local activists speak out
119
We also publish… JUNE/ JULY 2016
ON THE COVER
TUNG CHUNG STORY
FROM BACKWATER TO NEW TOWN
LANTAU-WIDE SUMMER CAMPS
TO KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED
Win wo rks a kid and hop ’s the Ch tick wit atr Ba itty Ch ets to h Fau e ng itty see st, Bre and Ba aks # Flu ng Eve ffy n
YOUNG WRITER’S COMPETITION
READ THE WINNING STORY
(AND MEET THE FINALISTS)
ALSO: ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE
Join your community online
Publishers in Lantau since 2002
Photos by Leah Ahmad, Terry Chow, Tim Draper, Baljit Gidwani and Jason Pagliari
BEAUTY OF LANTAU
Your Go-To GUIDE Fully updated and expanded for 2016/ 2017, The Best of Lantau is back by popular demand. In these pages you’ll find 101 things to do on the island we love to call home.
Photo by Tim Draper, www.facebook.com/lifehouseimage
An essential guide to all the island has to offer, The Best of Lantau is your ultimate go to, listing the top providers in everything from education and sports to dining and real estate. Whether you are looking for a local vet or doctor, a Pilates class or children’s photographer, we’ve got it covered. The listings pages are divided into subsections for your ease of reference and each includes a couple of special recommendations – our top picks.
6 The Best of Lantau
A practical resource, designed to help you do what you want to do, The Best of Lantau is also a good read, with special features on everything from will-making to homeopathy. In this year’s edition, we are proud to present a special 10-page supplement on secondary schooling, submitted by Anne Murphy Cohen, the director of ITS Education Asia (School Advisory Services). Ultimately, The Best of Lantau encapsulates what we all love about island life – its diversity. Read on to discover places you want to visit, causes you want to back and clubs you want to join. From the publishers of Around DB and Life on Lantau
BEAUTY OF LANTAU
The Best of Lantau 7
BEAUTY OF LANTAU
Four leading local photographers provide a visual celebration of Lantau By Balit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com
“This photo of two student dancers, shot in my studio in Discovery Bay, is one of my favourites. The girls are posed so gracefully and I think my concept of putting them under the spotlight came off well. Any time I photograph children, I am always reminded of what an incredibly idyllic environment DB is to raise a family. “
“The photo of the dragon boaters also says a lot about DB. I think it captures the dedication and enthusiasm of the competitors, as they set out to have fun and entertain the community. “
8 The Best of Lantau
BEAUTY OF LANTAU
By Tim Draper www.facebook.com/lifehouseimage “Sure-footed workmen with a serious head for heights erect scaffolding at Parkridge Village. I find watching these temporary structures go up almost hypnotic, right before my eyes agile dancers perform a type of ballet, ever upwards, weaving their repeating patterns of criss-crossed bamboo.”
“With the right conditions, on a clear day, there is no better location to watch the storms roll in over Hong Kong. Though DB has the slower paced, small town feel, it only takes a quick glance across the water to remind me that we are just a stone’s throw away from the sprawling metropolis.”
The Best of Lantau 9
BEAUTY OF LANTAU
By Leah Ahmad
“Living in Lantau, it’s kind of awesome how the kids can be in the pool one day and taking a mini hike to Tung Chung Fort the next. In this photo, I love the juxtaposition between the man-made structures, the buildings in Tung Chung, and the mountains.”
“Tai O is such an incredibly beautiful village and as such it’s wonderful to photograph. This view from Yeung Hau Temple, in Po Chue Tam, takes in the construction of a theatre for Chinese Opera performances. The ephemeral man-made structure is backed by a comparatively gargantuan natural one.” 10 The Best of Lantau
BEAUTY OF LANTAU
By Jason Pagliari
“Yogi Adam Baba is a Pui O resident who grew up in Hong Kong. Here he sits in full lotus on the country trail above Cheung Sha, with San Shek Wan and Ham Tin in the distance.”
“The massive boulder formation at Lin Fa Shan, towering over Mui Wo, always astonishes me. The tallest boulder is over 10-metres high and must weigh in the hundreds of tons. There’s a sense of mystery that makes one ponder how they got arranged there and how old they are, and that’s always inspiring when hiking over this peak.” The Best of Lantau 11
DINING
DINING
Asian dining International dining Recipes More dining destinations www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 13
DINING
Cafe Bord de Mer at Auberge Discovery Bay
DINING ASIAN TOP PICKS First Korean, Discovery Bay First Korean’s expert Korean chef, innovative menu and elegant, traditional tableware make for a rich culinary experience. The restaurant offers a large variety of barbecue specialties served with a unique soy sauce. House specialties include beef tartare with vegetables and green onion, and crispy rice cooked in a stone pot. Open weekdays from 11.30am to 3pm and 6pm to 11pm, and at weekends from 11.30am to 11pm. 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 9123, www.kingparrot.com.
High Tide Restaurant, Mui Wo High Tide, previously located at Cheung Sha Beach, now serves up delicious Thai cuisine from the Riverwalk. To ensure an authentic Thai taste, Chef Sukjai uses herbs and spices grown in his own garden. His curries tingle with fresh cardamom and lemongrass, his grilled seafood with fresh garlic and chilli, and his appetisers with a range of authentic Thai sauces. Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11.30am to 9.30pm. Riverwalk, Shop 2, G/F, 6 Ngan Wan 14 The Best of Lantau
Road, Mui Wo, 2980 3002, www.hightidehk.com, Facebook: High Tide Mui Wo.
Koh Tomyums, Discovery Bay Koh Tomyums provides a truly authentic Thai experience, from the traditional decor to the delicious food. The dishes are fresh and tasty, with specialties including classics like grilled pork neck and pad thai. Contemporary Thai fusion dishes are also on the menu. You can sit inside or on the terrace, with lovely views over the water. Bookings are recommended. Open seven days a week from noon to 11pm. 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 0767. Facebook: Koh Tomyums Thai Restaurant.
FEATURED Man Ho Restaurant, Chek Lap Kok Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott’s signature Chinese restaurant, Man Ho, specialises in authentic provincial dishes from Guangdong, Hunan, Jiangsu and Sichuan. Man Ho offers a dim-sum lunch buffet on weekdays. 1 Sky City Road East, Hong Kong International Airport, Chek Lap Kok, 3969 2888, www.skycitymarriott.com/dining.
DINING
Mansarover Indian Restaurant, Tung Chung
China Beach Club, Mui Wo
Mansarover serves up tasty Indian favourites such as chicken tikka masala and lamb korma, as well as a delicious prawn curry. It’s open seven days a week, with a pick-up service or home delivery. G/F, 21 Ha Ling Pei Tsuen, Tung Chung Road, Tung Chung, 2109 1927, www.mansarover.hk.
Opened in 2002, the China Beach Club overlooks Silvermine Bay and boasts a large and airy rooftop and balcony with a beautiful view. The Mediterranean cuisine and barbecue served is known to come in tasty and generous portions. The house specialty is surf and turf (ribeye steak and king prawns), and the two-for-one cocktail hour can last till late. Open Friday to Sunday, from noon to 11pm. 18 Tung Wan Tau Road, Silvermine Bay Beach, 2983 8931.
Midam Korean, Tung Chung Midam Korean specialises in authentic Korean barbecue. Chef Ajumma has been cooking in Lantau since the 1990s and strives for both quality and variety, offering daily specials. The Restaurant Building, Tat Tung Road Garden, Tung Chung, 2698 9007, Facebook: Midam.
My Thai Bar & Restaurant, Tung Chung My Thai Bar & Restaurant offers authentic Thai cuisine at affordable prices in a comfortable setting. G/F, Coastal Skyline, 12 Tung Chung Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, 2907 6918, Facebook: My Thai Bar and Restaurant.
Nha Trang, Tung Chung Opened in August 2016, Nha Trang serves up authentic, homemade Vietnamese food through its Hanoi-inspired recipes. The restaurant uses only prime ingredients from both local and international suppliers. Shop G25, G/F, Citygate Outlets, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, 2234 9199, info@nhatrang.com.hk, www.nhatrang.com.hk.
McSorley’s Ale House, Discovery Bay McSorley’s Ale House is a popular spot to grab a pint or enjoy a bite to eat, while watching a game of sport. It offers a good range of pub favourites, such as fish and chips, prime Angus beef burgers and beef and Guinness pie. A kids’ menu is also available. Open Monday to Friday from 3pm to 12am, weekends and public holidays from 11am to 1am. G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 8280, info@mcsorleys.com.hk, www.mcsorleys.com.hk.
Solera Spanish Restaurant, Discovery Bay Solera serves up classic Spanish cuisine, in generous portions, from a comprehensive a-la-carte menu. You can dine outside to enjoy waterfront views, or sit in the spacious bar area enjoying your favourite Spanish beer, wine, spirits and, of course, sangria. There’s live acoustic music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 12pm to 11pm. 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2555 0772.
INTERNATIONAL TOP PICKS Brasserie 22° North, Discovery Bay Offering an alfresco dining experience, with lovely views over the bay, Brasserie 22° North serves up a large selection of tasty, classic recipes with a creative twist. Through its extensive, value-for-money menu, the owners aim to provide the best quality all round. The restaurant is open Tuesday to Friday and Sunday from 4pm to midnight, and Saturday from 12pm to midnight. DB Plaza, DB, 2987 2298, www.22north.com.hk.
MooFish in Discovery Bay
The Best of Lantau 15
DINING
The Beach House, Lower Cheung Sha
Café Isara, Mui Wo
The Beach House bar, restaurant and café is an exciting recent addition to the beachside dining options in South Lantau. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing coffee, sunset cocktail or meal with friends. The Mediterranean-based menu is big on fish and seafood, and the extensive drinks list includes a selection of craft beers. Open Wednesday to Sunday, including public holidays, from 11.30am. Kitchen closes at 9.30pm. 32 Lower Cheung Sha, South Lantau, 2504 4788, info@thebeachhousehk.com, www.thebeachhousehk.com.
A stylish little bar and bistro, Café Isara is a great spot for a casual meal with friends or a game of pool or darts. It serves up a superb selection of Asian and Western dishes. 18A Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, 2470 1966, Facebook: Cafe Isara.
The Pier Bar, Central The Pier Bar is a wine and beer bar, offering ferry travellers a high-quality beverage experience togo, or to enjoy while waiting Central side. Drinks, savoury snacks and artisan cheeses are available for those in a hurry. The Pier Bar is also the perfect location for busy residents to grab a great bottle of wine for dinner. Open seven days a week from 11am to midnight. Pier 3, Discovery Bay Ferry Terminal, Central, 2520 2816, Facebook: The Pier Bar.
Caffé Pascucci, Discovery Bay Caffé Pascucci offers high-quality coffee while sharing the Italian coffee culture with the DB community. Customers can enjoy gourmet coffee as well as an authentic Italian dining experience. G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2591 1426, info@pascucci.com.hk, www.pascucci.com.hk.
Hemingway’s by the Bay, Discovery Bay Hemingway’s by the Bay specialises in barbecue dishes straight out of the Caribbean. Dine on the daily catch as you sip a rum cocktail under the stars. G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 8855, Facebook: Hemingway’s by the Bay.
The Water Buffalo, Pui O Newly opened British restaurant and brewpub, The Water Buffalo serves quality British food such as fish and chips, pies, apple crumble, etc., and caskconditioned ‘real ales’ brewed on the premises, all at affordable prices. Husband and wife team, qualified chef Jenny Riley and award-winning craft brewmaster Chris Riley, are assisted by daughter Sarah, the restaurant and bar manager. Open Wednesday to Friday from 11am to 11pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 11pm. G/F, 13 Lo Wai Tsuen, Pui O, 2109 3331, info@thewaterbuffalo.com.hk, www.thewaterbuffalo.com.hk.
FEATURED
BAJA FISH TACOS
“best Tacos in town” - HK Magazine, 4 Stars
“hardly a word spoken as our mouth were busy concentrating on the awesome flavours” - foodie Magazine Ten Best Restaurants opened in 2012 HK Magazine CARNITAS TACOS
Café Bord de Mer & Lounge, Discovery Bay
“as good as Tex-Mex gets in Hong Kong” TimeOut Magazine, 4 Stars
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Café Bord de Mer & Lounge offers a choice of buffet or à la carte dining. Auberge Discovery Bay, 88 Siena Avenue, DB, 2295 8299, enquiry@aubergediscoverybay.com, www.aubergediscoverybay.com.
Mui Wo Shop: Shop 9, Mui Wo Centre (between MCD & 7-11) Tel: 5463 3063 Sai Ying Pun Shop: G/F 119 Second Street (SYP MTR Exit B2) Tel: 2559 9519 www.tacochaca.com Take Aways Catering
16 The Best of Lantau
DINING
Recipes from local restaurants SCALLOPS
22° North
With celeriac purée
D’Deck, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay, 2987 2298 • 6 slices parma ham • 1pc celeriac root • 1ltr milk • 1ltr chicken stock • 2 bay leaves • 20 medium scallops
22° North’s scallops
Method
Between two baking sheets, bake the parma ham at 160°C for eight to 10 minutes, until crispy. Peel the celeriac root and chop into medium chunks. Place in a pan with the milk, stock and bay leaves. Boil until soft. Blend the celariac with a few spoons of the cooking liquid to form a thick paste. Season the scallops and fry in hot oil until golden. Arrange the scallops, parma ham and store-bought beetroot chips over the warm celeriac purée and serve.
SQUID With salt ’n pepper
The Beach House
Lower Cheung Sha Beach, South Lantau, 2504 4788 • 400g fresh squid • 1tbsp flour • 70ml extra virgin olive oil • 1 spring onion, chopped • 2 red chillis, chopped • 1tsp garlic, chopped • 3 lemons
The Beach House’s spicy squid
Method Take the fresh squid (cleaned, chopped and patted dry) and season generously. Mix with flour and then deep-fry in olive oil for two to three minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Toss with the thinly sliced spring onion, red chilli and crispy garlic. Serve with store-bought chilli and garlic dipping sauce, or aioli and a wedge of lemon. The Best of Lantau 17
DINING
Lantana, Cheung Sha
Pizza Express Citygate, Tung Chung
With its gorgeous location on Lower Cheung Sha Beach, Lantana is known for its relaxed ambiance and great food. The small menu is big on home-cooked Italian favourites – pizza, pasta and salad. 40 Lower Cheung Sha, South Lantau, 2690 9022, 5465 5511, Facebook: Lantana, Hong Kong.
Opened in mid-August in Tung Chung, Pizza Express serves hand-crafted pizzas, made with the freshest ingredients. Unit G21, G/F, Citygate, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, 2297 3588, www.pizzaexpress.com.hk/ Citygate.
Mavericks, Pui O
Resto is known for serving Italian favourites including pasta, pizza and risotto, as well as other international dishes. Shop G, G/F, Seaview Crescent, 8 Tung Chung Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, 2886 3156, www.resto.com.hk.
Overlooking Pui O Beach, Mavericks is a super-cool bar, restaurant and board shack. It’s a great spot to grab a cold craft beer and watch the sunset. Pui O Beach, 5662 8552, info@mavericks.hk, www.mavericks.hk.
MooFish, Discovery Bay MooFish is the latest addition to the Castelo Concepts group in DB. Try the burgers and tacos, as well as the specialty steak, seafood and salads. Shop G33, DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 6318, moofish@casteloconcepts.com, www.casteloconcepts.com.
18 The Best of Lantau
Resto, Tung Chung
Taco Chaca, Mui Wo
Taco Chaca is a real find for fans of Mexican food, or anyone who enjoys good food at great prices. Order a popular Baja fish taco with a Mexican beer or frozen margarita. Shop 9, 3 Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo, 5463 3063.
The Gallery Bar & Restaurant, Tong Fuk
Well-established and extremely popular with Lantau residents and visitors alike, The Gallery Bar & Restaurant is
DINING
known for its superb international cuisine. Specialities include steaks, salads, burgers and pizzas. 26 South Lantau Road, Tong Fuk, 2980 2582, Facebook: The Gallery, Tong Fuk.
The Kitchen, Mui Wo The Kitchen is an old-style Italian restaurant and diners are welcome to bring their dogs. Almost every dish, including the pasta and pizza, is homemade. Shop 1, G/F, Scenic Crest, 18A Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, 5991 6292, Facebook: The Kitchen HK.
Uncle Russ Coffee, Discovery Bay Established in 1992, Uncle Russ Coffee offers a wide selection of drinks from espressos to fruit smoothies, plus assorted snacks. Shop G40B, DB Plaza, DB. Shop LG19, DB North Plaza, DB. info@uncleruss.com.hk, www.unclerusscoffee.com.hk.
Zentro Garden, Tung Chung This relaxed outdoor bar and restaurant is known for its extensive, varied menu. Specialities include steaks, salads and Indian curries. G/F, Seaview Crescent, 8 Tung Chung Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, 2802 8000.
www.pixabay.com
The Best of Lantau 19
DINING
More dining destinations Discovery Bay
Tung Chung & South Lantau
Berliner, Discovery Bay
Bahçe Turkish Restaurant, Mui Wo
Authentic German cuisine. G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 8203, berlinerdb@cafedecogroup.com, www.cafedecogroup.com.
Authentic Turkish cuisine. Shop 19, 3 Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo, 2984 0222.
Chef ’s Choice, Discovery Bay
Hearty pub grub. 3 Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo, 2984 9720. Facebook: China Bear.
International deli/ diner. G/F, DB North Plaza, DB, 2172 6111, db@chefschoice.com.hk, www.chefs-choice-hk.info.
China Bear, Mui Wo
Handi Indian Restaurant, Tung Chung
Coyote Bar & Grill, Discovery Bay
North Indian food. G/F, 8 Ha Ling Pei Tsuen, Tung Chung Road, Tung Chung, 2984 8674, www.handi.com.hk.
Classic Mexican food. G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 2848, www.coyote.com.hk.
Kimos, Tung Chung
Il Bel Paese, Discovery Bay Italian deli/ diner. G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 0202, www.ilbelpaese.com.hk.
Mirch Masala, Discovery Bay Classic and authentic Indian cuisine. G/F, DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 1387, 2987 1337, www.mirchmasala.hk.
Paisano’s, Discovery Bay Italian home cooking plus New York-style pizza. G/F, DB North Plaza, DB, 2673 4445, www.paisanos.com.hk.
Peony, Discovery Bay Traditional Chinese cuisine. 1/F, DB Recreation Club, DB, 2500 1950, www.dbrc.hk.
Zak’s, Discovery Bay Modern fusion food. G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 6232, zaks@casteloconcepts.com, www.casteloconcepts.com.
20 The Best of Lantau
Indian and Turkish cuisine, certified Halal food. Shop L, G/F, Seaview Crescent, Tung Chung, 2886 3646, www.kimos.com.hk.
Long Island, Cheung Sha
International cuisine. 35 Lower Cheung Sha Village, South Lantau, 2320 2001.
Melody Thai, Tung Chung Rustic and authentic Thai food. 10 Ha Ling Pei Village, Tung Chung, 2988 8129, www.melodythaitungchung.com.
The Stoep, Cheung Sha
South African barbecue food. 50 Lower Cheung Sha, South Lantau, 2980 2699, Facebook: The Stoep.
Tung Chung Pizza, Tung Chung
Hand-thrown pizza made in a stone hearth oven. 9B Sheung Ling Pei, Tung Chung, 2466 1010, www.tungchungpizza.com.
LIVING
LIVING Realtors/Boat brokers Moving companies Furniture and home accessories Pest control Broadband Home services www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 21
LIVING
A classic home interiorMarina on Lantau. Photo luxury Photo courtesy in DB. courtesy Photo of Century ofcourtesy Bricks 21 & Newcourt of Mortar LifestyleRealty Design Homes
LIVING REALTORS AND BOAT BROKERS TOP PICKS AquaBlu Marine, Discovery Bay AquaBlu Marine is a rapidly expanding, forward-thinking and customer-orientated boat and yacht brokerage. The business specialises in selling high-quality pleasure yachts, stay-on-board boats and super yachts in DB and throughout Hong Kong. DB-based owner Paul Fortune, formerly a partner in two leading international shipping law firms, has more than 33 years of experience in dealing with all aspects of maritime and shipping matters, in Hong Kong and internationally, and he has unparalleled contacts throughout the shipping world. 6017 7802, oceanblu@netvigator.com. Century 21 Newcourt Realty, Discovery Bay Set up in 1989, Century 21 Newcourt Realty has a team of 10 dedicated agents, 50% of whom have been trained by the managing director himself, Bill Chan. They are devoted to customer service and satisfaction, meaning the majority of their clients comes from referrals. Backed by over 25 years of experience, Century 21 Newcourt Realty makes sure that newcomers to DB feel especially welcome, and staff help facilitate the transition of every Discovery Bay move. Century 21 Newcourt Realty 22 The Best of Lantau
has a diverse portfolio of DB properties appealing to customers whether they are renting or buying. Shop 113, 1/F, DB Plaza, 2987 9729, dbay@c21newcourt.com, www.c21newcourt.com. Headland Homes & DB Homes, Discovery Bay Established more than 26 years ago by the King family, Headland Homes specialises in residential properties in Discovery Bay. Whether you are looking to purchase or rent a home, or find an investment property, Headland Homes can expertly guide you every step of the way. Its new division, DB Homes, focuses on property management and acts as a bridge between landlords and tenants, taking care of every aspect of a landlord’s assets. 2987 2088, info@headlandhomes.hk, www.headlandhomes.hk. HomeSolutions, South Lantau & Tung Chung HomeSolutions, established in 2007 by Kelly Merrick, offers real-estate services in a variety of different languages. The experienced team understands the challenges of moving and takes pride in guiding you through the buying, selling or leasing process. The team at HomeSolutions enjoys
LIVING
Photo courtesy of Swire Properties
helping people, from assisting with a new mortgage, navigating school choices, or helping find a new home. Shop 10, Mui Wo Centre, 3 Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo, 3483 5003, property@homesolutions.hk, www.homesolutions.hk.
Mandarin Yacht, Discovery Bay
Mandarin Yacht has sold more than 60 boats over 15 years of live-aboard experience. Open-plan boat living provides residents with more than 2,500 square feet. The option of three- to four-bed plans means families of all sizes are catered for. Simple, modern interiors are easy to maintain ensuring a good second-hand resale. DB Marina, DB, 9142 4343, info@mandarinyacht.com.hk, www.mandarinyacht.com.hk. Riverwalk, Mui Wo Sino Group’s Riverwalk comprises a variety of different units including studios, one-bedroom flats, one-bedroom duplexes and two-bedroom flats. The beautifully outfitted apartments are available to rent or buy, and range from 204 square foot to 882 square foot. Residents enjoy easy access to Mui Wo, Silvermine Beach and South Lantau’s heritage hotspots. Amenities on offer include High Tide, the popular Thai restaurant previously located in Cheung Sha. Riverwalk is a world away from the hustle and bustle
of the city, yet the ferry time to Central is just 35 minutes. 8207 7608, leasingcs@sino.com, www.riverwalk.com.hk.
WHITESANDS, South Lantau Swire Properties’ WHITESANDS on South Lantau Road launched in late September 2015. The 28 three- and four-bedroom detached houses range from 1,954 square foot to 2,598 square foot, all with private front and back gardens and spacious rooftops. Contemporarily designed and blending beautifully with the unspoiled natural landscape, WHITESANDS is easily reached from Tung Chung and connects directly to Central via a well-developed road and railway transportation network. Nearby Pui O and Cheung Sha beaches are hotspots for water sports, as well as firstclass beachside dining. 2922 4888, sales@swireproperties.com, www.whitesands.com.hk.
FEATURED EPS Property Consultants, Discovery Bay EPS Property Consultants’ Ann Chan can help with property sale, purchase and leasing, marketing and advertising strategies, and site visits. DB Plaza, DB, 2987 2023, info@epsdb.com, www.epsdb.com. The Best of Lantau 23
LIVING
PhotoThe courtesy team from of Century South Lantau’s 21 Newcourt Home Realty Solutions
Findley Leung, Mui Wo Specialising in Lantau property, Findley Leung offers various home services, including interior design and renovation. It also provides a wide range of investment, property management and listing choices. Shop C, G/F, Silver Centre Building, Mui Wo, 2984 8334, www.findleyleung.com.hk. HK Boats and Homes, Discovery Bay HK Boats and Homes has the largest portfolio of vessels in Discovery Bay and prides itself on having the connections, local knowledge and coverage to offer the very best brokerage services. DB Marina, DB, 6055 0146, michelejcameron@msn.com, www.hkboatsandhomes.com. Ka Man Properties, Discovery Bay Ka Man Properties provides a full range of agency services to help customers buy, sell or lease residential properties. Its property management service has a great reputation. DB Plaza, DB, 2987 7611, marketing@kaman.com.hk, www.kaman.com.hk.
Land Master Property, Discovery Bay Land Master Property has access to 13 years of solid experience in the property agency field. Knowing Discovery Bay inside out, the firm covers everything 24 The Best of Lantau
from leasing to resale. Shop 129, 1/F, DB Plaza, 2987 6238. Shop G13D, G/F, DB North Plaza, 2914 1234, www.landmasterdb.com. Lifestyle Homes, Discovery Bay Lifestyle Homes is a boutique real-estate agency and boat broker in DB, founded by Roenel Turner in 2002. Its mission is to build long-term relationships with clients and offer exceptional customer service. DB Plaza, DB, 2914 0888, info@lifestylehomes.com.hk, www.lifestylehomes.com.hk. Savills, Discovery Bay Savills is a global real-estate services provider with a vast international network. It offers a broad range of specialist advisory, management and transactional services to local and overseas clients. A combination of sector knowledge and entrepreneurial flair gives clients access to real-estate expertise of the highest calibre. DB Plaza, DB, 2987 1919, www.savills.com.hk. Star Property, Discovery Bay Star Property has been proudly serving the housing needs of new and existing DB residents since 2001. The friendly, DB-based team is there to help with property purchases and rentals. 2987 0999, star@dbproperty.com.hk, www.starproperty.com.hk.
AQUABLU
LIVING
Blume Living in DB specialises in premium outdoor furniture
Photo courtesy of Century 21 Newcourt Realty
MOVING COMPANIES TOP PICKS Allied Pickfords Hong Kong, operating in Lantau First established in 1984, Allied Pickfords offers both domestic and international services in relocation, storage and office moving. With offices in more than 600 locations in 40 countries, it has grown into one of the largest and most respected providers of moving services, handling over 50,000 international moves every year. Allied Pickfords Hong Kong is supported by 44 employees and as part of its commitment to workforce diversity, the Hong Kong office employs eight different nationalities. 2736 6032, www.alliedpickfords.com.hk.
Asian Express International Movers, operating in Lantau Asian Express International Movers is one of Hong Kong and China’s leading relocation companies. Since 1979, Asian Express has strived to provide the highest level of service to its customers, be they multinational organisations or individual families. Asian Express is part of the Harmony Relocation Network, so wherever clients are relocating, its network offices ensure a consistently high-level service. This year Asian Express was awarded the FIDI FAIM-PLUS certification, which is the highest level service award in the moving industry. 2893 1000, www.aemovers.com.hk. 26 The Best of Lantau
Crown Relocations, operating in Lantau Over the past 50 years, Crown Relocations has carefully mastered the art of relocation. The respect shown for clients and their belongings is a hallmark of the company’s service. Backed by offices in more than 265 locations, Crown helps clients get to know their destination prior to facilitating a move. Crown also supports local communities through its wide-ranging CSR (corporate social responsibility) programme, supporting health, education and welfare. A free, no obligation quote is available on the Crown website. 2636 8388, hongkong@crownrelo.com, www.crownrelo.com.hk. FEATURED Akash Moving, operating in Lantau Over the past 10 years, Akash Moving has built a reputation as an affordable and reliable moving service. It is a complete one-stop shop for clients’ packing, moving and storage needs. 2421 8088, info@akash.hk, www.akash.hk. FTC Relocations, operating in Lantau FTC Relocations is a specialist international moving company dedicated to offering its clients a first-class
IS MOVING SEE YOU AT DB MAIN PLAZA
IN NOVEMBER SHOP 104B, 1/F, BLOCK C, DB PLAZA, LANTAU ISLAND (OPENING IN NOVEMBER 2016)
MEANWHILE BOOKAZINE DB NORTH PLAZA WILL REMAIN OPEN LANDMARK PRINCE’S Shop 326-328, 3/F, Landmark Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central Tel : 2522 1785
IFC MALL Shop 3012, Podium Level 3 ifc mall, 8 Finance Street Central Tel: 2813 2770
EXCHANGE SQUARE Shop 305-07 One Exchange Square Central Tel: 2542 1133
LYNDHURST TERRACE Shop 1, G/F, Oriental Crystal Comm Bldg, 46 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central Tel : 2970 3999
PACIFIC PLACE Shop 4, Level B3 Three Pacific Place Admiralty Tel: 2997 3018
WANCHAI Shop 117, Shui On Centre, 6-8 Harbour Road, Wanchai Tel : 2802 4932
REPULSE BAY G/F, Shop G107C-D The Repulse Bay Arcade Repulse Bay Tel: 2750 1136
DISCOVERY BAY Shop G12, G/F, DB North Plaza, DB, Lantau Island Tel : 2987 1373
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service at an affordable price. Its employees are professional, experienced and committed to protecting your belongings. 2814 1658, sales@ftcrelo.com, www.ftcrelo.com.
Tips for relocating with kids
Hoi Yu Transportation, Discovery Bay Hoi Yu Transportation provides efficient moving services for DB residents within DB only. Shop 116B-117, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB 2987 4488, hoiyudb@netvigator.com. reloSMART, operating in Lantau reloSMART offers a variety of moving services from international and domestic moves to pet relocations, vehicle and boat moves, and air-conditioned storage. It is determined to meet clients’ requirements and make your move as smooth as possible. 2561 3030, enquiry@relosmart.asia, www.relosmart.asia. SwiftRelo, operating in Lantau SwiftRelo – The International Movers – attracts clients looking for a quality move for a competitive price. Specialising in overseas relocations and storage, SwiftRelo has recently become a member of the internationally recognised Harmony Relocation Group. 2363 4008, contact@swiftrelo.com, www.swiftrelo.com.
FURNITURE AND HOME ACCESSORIES TOP PICKS Expert Shoppers, Discovery Bay Expert Shoppers is a go-to destination for custom furniture, unique home upholstery and partyware. Anything from porcelain stools and ginger jars, to curtain fabric, cushions and custom-sized carpets are on offer. As well as its instore range, Expert Shoppers provides a design service in collaboration with architects and interior designers. At-home consultations are available to those looking to revamp their existing decor. Call for an appointment. DB Plaza, DB, 3704 7402, sourcing@expert-shoppers.com, www.expert-shoppers.com. The Red Lantern, Mui Wo The Red Lantern opens only on weekends and sells genuine antiques and small pieces of delightful furniture from the late Ching Dynasty. It’s located just six minutes from the Mui Wo ferry towards Silvermine 28 The Best of Lantau
www.ericabuteau.com
children as soon as you know for sure that you are 1 Tell moving. Giving them some time to get used to the idea will make the transition easier.
OK to let kids know if you are sad about the 2 It’simpending move. It lets them be sad too. Talk about the people and places you will all miss. But stay calm and positive, and they will take your lead.
kids as much as you can. Let them visit the 3 Involve town you will be moving to either in person or via
a community web page. Share photos of possible apartment buildings or houses, and of the school they will be attending. Knowing where they will spend their days is as important to children as it is to you.
with children underfoot can be frustrating. But 4 Packing young children do better if they have some control over at least their favourite things. Spend some time together packing a box of their most treasured items. Make sure that box is available to be opened right away when you get to the new place.
the best way for kids to say goodbye to close friends, 5 Plan whether that’s with a big party, a quiet dinner, or a familiar play date. For some children, a big celebration is wonderful, but for others, it can be a painful reminder of what is ending.
kids’ routine as much as you can. Even though 6 Maintain you may be surrounded by the mess called packing,
dinnertime and bedtime rituals can stay the same. Children thrive on predictable things happening at usual times. You may find that it helps you feel less scattered as well. Source: www.psychologytoday.com
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Photo courtesy of Century 21 Newcourt Realty
Beach Hotel. Silver Plaza, Mui Wo, 2984 0099, glandam@netvigator.com.
FEATURED Blume Living, Discovery Bay Blume Living supplies affordable, modern garden furniture directly from its factory to individual customers, hotels and restaurants. It also works with designers on bespoke furniture for new hotels and other commercial projects. DB Marina, DB, 2564 3499, sales@blume-living.com, www.blume-living.com. EL:AR, operating in Lantau EL:AR has become one of the leading distributors of high-quality, eco-friendly ceiling fan products. The firm is recognised for delivering an excellent service to its customers. 2164 7228, www.elar.com.hk. Nomadic, Discovery Bay Nomadic sells a tempting and diverse range of South East Asian-style jewellery, clothing, decorative homeware and plants. Shop 120A, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 8460, nomadicshop@yahoo.com.hk. rapee-LIVING, Discovery Bay rapee-LIVING focuses on seven categories: bed linen, quilts and pillows, skincare products, home accessories, baby linen, home fragrances and illuminations. Shop 134, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 7082, info@rapeeliving.com.hk, www.rapeeliving.com.hk.
PEST CONTROL TOP PICKS BioCycle (Hong Kong), operating in Lantau While getting rid of pests is the main focus, BioCycle (Hong Kong) is also committed to preventing pollution and improving its environmental performance by using natural methods throughout the pest-control process. BioCycle offers both indoor and outdoor services, including rodent management, snake prevention, wasp nest removal, carpet cleaning, termite prevention and sanitising services. 3575 2575, info@biocycle.hk, www.biocycle.com.hk.
FEATURED Greenland Pest Control, operating in Lantau Offering tailored pest-control solutions for rodents, cockroaches, fleas, mosquitoes, termites, ants, ticks and more, Greenland Pest Control provides a thorough and efficient way to get rid of pests for good. 9871 0771, 9774 3554. Truly Care, operating in Lantau Applying only the most professional pest-killing and control methods, Truly Care is equipped to tackle pest-infested environments such as offices, warehouses, restaurants and homes. Its proven track record relies on a five-step process and a one-year contract of treatment and maintenance. 2458 8378, info@trulycare.com.hk, www.trulycare.com.hk. The Best of Lantau 29
OFFICE Sharon Riley Misako Takato Kim Jomar
www.homesolutions.hk
3483 5003 9664 4749 9757 0927 9748 2367
(S-415475) (S-287062) (E-352962)
SERVING PROPERTY OF SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG
$49K+ MICHELIA LUXURY VILLAS FOR LEASE
For lease, nine luxuriously renovated villas, sizes ranging from 1,500 sqft to 1,540 sqft. Located in the beautiful area of Cheung Sha. Three generous bedrooms, 2/3 bathrooms, amah room, spacious living & separate dining area. Beautifully landscaped gardens. One house includes private swimming pool. Car parking for all houses.
$10M+/22K+ VILLAS IN MUI WO & CHEUNG SHA BEAUTIFUL BEACH VILLAS
For sale or lease. Stunning villas in gated complexes often w/ swimming pools & 24-hour security. Small complexes with 2-10 villas up to larger complexes with 25+ villas. Usually these homes offer 3+ beds & 2+ baths & private parking. Villas usually provide gardens, rooftops and/ or terraces. Perfect for families or couples looking for the amenities of gated community living.
$8.8K /$23.8K RIVERWALK STUDIO, 1 BED, 2 BEDS FOR LEASE
Situated on the banks of the Silver Mine Bay river in Mui Wo comes the newest luxury development in South Lantau. 50 flats occupy 7 blocks of this stunning 3-story development. All have fully equipped kitchens, washer dryers, and 24-hour security. Built with convenience in mind and minutes away from Mui Wo Ferry Pier.
$1.5M+/8K+ VILLAGE HOUSE - 350’ TO 2100’ + ROOF RANGES FROM STUDIO TO 5 BEDROOMS
Beautiful properties built w/ space & convenience in mind. The houses can be separated into flats which are available on ground, 1st & 2nd floors w/ rooftop. Most include balconies or some outdoor space. Many homes offer gardens & patio areas, as well. Perfect for families and those who enjoy space and comfort of the village life. Most are walking distance from our beautiful beaches.
Call us any time at 3483 5003 or Email PROPERTY@HOMESOLUTIONS.HK
13K-40K LEYBURN VILLAS STUDIO, 1 BED, 2 BEDS FOR LEASE
For lease, lovely villas situated in Cheung Sha, this villa complex offers quiet, secure & affordable living. Villas ranging from 350’ (1 Bed studio), 766’ (2 Beds, 2 Baths) & 1382’ (3 Beds and 2 Baths) NET. Most villas have sea view and car parking. Complex has a large swimming pool, tennis court, gym, reading room and 24-Hour Security.
2M+/8K+ MUI WO FLATS ALL OF VARYING SIZES
For sale or lease. If you are looking for convenient living in the heart of Mui Wo, a flat is perfect for you. Varying sizes in low-rise buildings no more than 5 residential floors. Building can be walk-up or include a lift. First Floor & Top floor can include lovely outdoor terraces and stunning sea views. Minutes from the ferry to Central. 10 minutes walk to beautiful Silvermine Beach.
C-044849
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BROADBAND
HOME SERVICES
Hong Kong Broadband Network, Hong Kong
TOP PICKS
Hong Kong Broadband Network (HKBN) is Hong Kong’s largest provider of residential, high-speed fibre broadband services by number of subscriptions. HKBN offers premium and high-value telecom solutions, including broadband, mobile, Over-The-Top (OTT) entertainment and sports services, and fixed-line telephone services. www.hkbn.net. PCCW Media, Hong Kong PCCW Media is a leading multimedia and entertainment group in Hong Kong. It operates the leading pay-TV service in Hong Kong under the Now TV brand, delivering both self-produced and licensed content. Now TV offers more than 180 linear channels of local, Asian and international programming. shop@pccw.com, www.pccw.com.
BSD Design, operating in Lantau Established over 30 years ago, BSD Design is an interior design and contracting company specialising in both residential and commercial interiors. BSD staff pride themselves on working closely and successfully with clients. Experience tells them that most professionals appreciate someone who is willing to listen and offer advice concerning the ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ of interior decoration. 2567 2562, bsddesignhk@gmail.com.
FEATURED Amity Shoes Care, Discovery Bay After 24 years at the Amity Shoes Care store off DB Plaza, Lawrence Lau now provides an on-call service to repair shoes around DB. 5369 2329.
Photo courtesy of Century 21 Newcourt Realty www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 31
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JSO Interiors, Discovery Bay Professionally trained UK painter and decorator John Overton offers home improvement services across Lantau. John has a proven track record in painting both private and commercial properties and prides himself on offering a quality finish at a competitive price. 9314 2770, jsointeriors@outlook.com. www.pixabay.com
Best United Engineering, operating in Lantau Best United Engineering specialises in both commercial and residential design and installation of awnings (retractable awning systems imported from France), insect screens and rolling shutters. 2344 9028, www.bestunited.com.hk.
Colin Golding Expat Painter and Decorator, Discovery Bay Colin Golding has over 35 years of experience in painting and decorating. He offers a broad range of home services including indoor and outdoor painting, wall colour washes and decorative finishes, as well as plumbing and electrical work. The products used are kid-friendly. 9074 5231.
32 The Best of Lantau
Nick Lambert Painter, Discovery Bay DB-based Nick Lambert is a native English-speaking, UK-trained painter and decorator. Having managed his own business for over 25 years, Nick brings his experience and expertise to clients, offering a reliable and professional service. All consultations are free of charge. 6796 4317, nick_lambert16@yahoo.co.uk, www.nicklambertpainter.com. Sonthra Handyman, Discovery Bay Peter Sonthra, of Sonthra Handyman, repairs furniture (both in and outdoor) and is a polishing specialist. Peter provides all kinds of solid wood work, as well as wall work, such as hanging pictures. 9674 7531, sonthrapeter@gmail.com.
PETS
PETS
Animal rescue centres Pet products and services Veterinary services www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 33
PETS
The PALS team
PETS ANIMAL RESCUE CENTRES TOP PICKS Hong Kong Paws Foundation, throughout Lantau Hong Kong Paws Foundation (PAWS) was founded and registered as a charity in 2005 by Hong Kong-born Kat Cheung. PAWS aims to help raise awareness of animal welfare issues and reduce the number of abused and neglected animals in Hong Kong. To operate, it relies 100% on donations and volunteers. PAWS holds a weekly homing day in DB Plaza every Saturday, from 3pm to 6pm, for families looking to offer either permanent or foster homes to animals in need. 9485 5188, kat@hkpaws.org, kate@hkpaws.org, www.hkpaws.org.
Lifelong Animal Protection Charity, operating on Lantau Lifelong Animal Protection Charity (LAP) is a fully volunteer-run animal rescue organisation that rescues abandoned, neglected or abused animals throughout Hong Kong. LAP’s method is to find appropriate foster homes for animals, meaning that people who are not in Hong Kong long enough to adopt, can still play a 34 The Best of Lantau
lifesaving role. LAP has an adoption centre in Tsuen Wan and plans to open up a cat-only adoption centre. All cash donations benefit the animals directly. 6477 1492, sheila@lap.org.hk, www.lap.org.hk.
Protection of Animals Lantau South, Mui Wo Formed in 1998 by Jacqui Green and registered in 2004, Protection of Animals Lantau South (PALS) is a small but dedicated group committed to rescuing and rehoming unwanted and stray animals on Lantau. PALS is an advocate of de-sexing animals to prevent unwanted pregnancies and urges the local community to support the practice. When rehoming, PALS makes sure that its cats/ dogs have been vet-checked and vaccinated, and it endeavours to create the perfect match between pets and people. 9197 4371, jaquigreen@gmail.com, www.pals.org.hk.
FEATURED Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Mui Wo Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) cares for abandoned, sick and injured animals, rescuing and rehoming them as necessary. It
PETS
provides desexing services and hospitalisation. SPCA also works with the government to improve animal welfare across Hong Kong. Mui Wo Clinic, Shop 17, 3 Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo, 2984 0060, www.spca.org.hk.
VETERINARY SERVICES
Villa Kunterbunt Lantau, Pui O
Doctors Beck & Stone is a leading international pet hospital group, supporting responsible pet ownership, and providing the highest level of veterinary services. Doctors Beck & Stone also offers emergency services, hospitalisation, boarding and grooming. Pet food and toys are available. Shop G38, G/F, DB North Plaza, DB, 2788 1599, dbnorthplazareception@drbns.com, www.doctorsbeckandstone.com.
Pui O resident Okka Scherer has a mission to rescue any unwanted or neglected animals. Having checked and improved their health, the ultimate goal is to rehome the animals. If they cannot be homed, a sanctuary is offered for them to live out their days. Volunteers and donations (towels, food, medical supplies, money) are greatly welcomed. 9544 9181, katrob13@yahoo.co.uk, Facebook: Villa Kunterbunt Lantau.
PET PRODUCTS AND SERVICES TOP PICK Mypetshop, Discovery Bay Mypetshop offers a comprehensive menu of food and accessories for dogs, cats and fish. Full grooming services are available, and owners can choose to have their dogs washed in a unique machine pet washer with hydro-massage jets and pre-heated water. A small library with pet-related books as well as snacks and beverages is available too, keeping owners in mind. Shop G09, G/F, DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 8873, mypetshop@live.hk.
TOP PICK Doctors Beck & Stone, Discovery Bay
FEATURED Community Vet Clinic, Pui O Community Vet Clinic, run by Dr Jenny Chu, cares for the small animals of the Lantau community. Services include consultation, vaccination, surgical procedures and dental care. The clinic also sells pet food and other pet products. 3486 6100, communityvethk@gmail.com, Facebook: Community Vet Clinic Ltd.
Island Veterinary Services, Discovery Bay Island Veterinary Services has been caring for Lantau pets for over 20 years, offering services such as vaccinations, general checkups, dentistry, surgery, neutering and more.
FEATURED Pets Gallery, Discovery Bay In operation since 1997, Pets Gallery offers cat and dog grooming by appointment, as well as a cat-sitting service. It offers a healthy range of pet supplies and helps its customers choose the right options for them and their pets. Pets Gallery also offers a delivery service within Discovery Bay. Shop G11B, G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 0428.
Royal Pets, Tung Chung Founded in 2012, the main goal of Royal Pets is to enable pet owners to go on holiday knowing their pets are with trustworthy sitters. Services include dog walking, dog boarding, pet photography and dog and cat sitting. 6314 9887, sitter@royalpetshk.com, www.royal-pets-hk.com.
Trailwagger The Best of Lantau 35
PETS
8 things you may not know about your cat
The friendly vets and certified nursing staff ensure pets get the right attention and treatment. Shop G10, G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 9003, 9142 9709 (after hours), dbsouthplazareception@drbns.com, www.db-vets.com.
Tung Chung Animal Clinic, Tung Chung Offering a range of services, such as oncology, dentistry, vaccinations, surgery and acupuncture, Tung Chung Animal Clinic also provides day-to-day animal care. Shop 7, Ma Man Village, Tung Chung, 2988 1534, 2549 2330 (after hours), www.tc-vets.com.
www.rd.com
you stroke your cat, or when she rubs against your 1 When legs, she is leaving her scent on you, identifying you as her own.
a cat kneads her paws (on you or a piece of 2 When furniture) she is happy – the kneading is carried over from when she was a kitten. This is how nursing kittens massage their mother’s teats to start the flow of milk.
of the time a purring cat is a happy cat, but cats also 3 Most purr to comfort themselves when they are anxious or in pain.
don’t like to be stared at – they are threatened by 4 Cats prolonged eye contact. To reassure your cat after you’ve been watching her, blink slowly, look away slowly and then look back. If you are in sync, she will mirror you.
cats like to be cuddled but they are in the 5 Some minority. Most cats prefer simple stroking as they don’t like to feel confined.
likes to touch noses with you, or present you 6 Ifwithyourhercattummy to be stroked, she is saying that she trusts and loves you. If your cat jumps on your lap and presents you with her backside, she doesn’t mean to offend you. This is the equivalent of a handshake.
get a feeling of security from hearing your voice. Not 7 Cats all cats are vocal but the more you talk to your cat, the more she will talk back.
Your cat doesn’t have nine lives but she can fly. When cats 8 fall, their ‘righting reflexes’ take over, so that they rotate in
mid-air and land on their feet. Cats have fallen 20 storeys or more without being injured – once orientated they spread out to create an effective parachute.
An enthusiast at a snake talk by William Sargent 36 The Best of Lantau
Source: Understanding Cat Behaviour, Dr Gordon Roberts
SPORTS
SPORTS Fitness Team sports Tennis Water sports Martial arts Golf Sports equipment
www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 37
The HIT Room
Discovery Bay Residents Golf Society members
www.evoqueportraits.com
www.evoqueportraits.com
SPORTS
SPORTS FITNESS TOP PICKS Claire Mas, Discovery Bay Fitness professional Claire Mas specialises in the development and execution of customised, personal fitness and nutrition programmes. An internationally accredited personal trainer, Claire not only specialises in customising programmes, she also looks to assist her clients with mindset change. Her functional fitness training aims to develop clients’ muscles, making it easier and safer for them to perform everyday activities more efficiently. 9387 0735, claire_mas@hotmail.com, www.clairemasfitness.com. Embody, Discovery Bay The only studio in Hong Kong to offer classic Pilates and use Peak Pilates equipment. Embody offers yoga, Pilates and much more. Since opening in 2008, Embody has focused on providing its clients with specially designed classes that cater for bumps, babes, kids, tweens, teens and adults. The studio aims to provide clients with the tools to take control of their fitness levels and improve their quality of life. DB Plaza, DB, 6624 8712, susan@embody.hk, www.embody.hk. 38 The Best of Lantau
KIPMOVIN’s Thomas Kiprotich
SPORTS
EPIC MMA Tung Chung
Tyler Treece from Treece Fitness
Claire Mas and participants in The Angels for Orphans Fitness Challenge
KIPMOVIN, Discovery Bay
The HIT Room, Discovery Bay
Catering to adults and children of all fitness levels, KIPMOVIN offers outdoor fitness training programmes, particularly running, to help clients achieve their health and fitness goals in a disciplined, fun and supportive environment. Members receive a training programme to keep them motivated and committed. DB resident Thomas Kiprotich, an elite Kenyan athlete and certified fitness trainer, founded KIPMOVIN in order to share his passion for running and fitness with others. 6180 3256, thomas@kipmovin.com, www.kipmovin.com.
The HIT Room is the only independent studio in DB which links indoor and outdoor training together. It includes two purpose-built studios for group exercise classes, spin classes and personal training, as well as outdoor terraces and direct access to the waterfront promenade. From kettle bells to TRX, ViPR to Bulgarian Bags, boxing gear to plyometric boxes, agility ladders to core-trainers and BOSU to medicine balls, the studios cover all your training needs under one roof. Units 13 & 15, LG/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 6621 7410, info@thehitroom.com.hk, www.thehitroom.com.hk.
Movement Improvement, Discovery Bay Specialising in Pilates and yoga, injury prevention and rehabilitation, Movement Improvement (MI) also offers Spinning, TRX, circuit training, Fatburn Extreme, children’s classes and personal training. Owned and operated by long-time DB resident Claire Dickson and with accredited instructors from all over the world, the studio offers a variety of training methods – high and low impact, gentle flow or challenging and high intensity. Physical fitness solutions are designed to suit all ability levels. Unit 10, 1/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 5852, admin@movementimprovement.com.hk, www.movementimprovement.com.hk.
FEATURED AEROkids, Discovery Bay AEROkids is a sport-aerobics and fitness programme aimed at children and teenagers who love to perform through music and dance. Sport-aerobics is a fantastic way for children to improve fitness, flexibility, coordination and self-confidence, while having fun. DB Community Hall, DB North Plaza, DB, 9154 6841, www.aerokids.hk. The Best of Lantau 39
SPORTS
Junior Cricket Academy
d.BeFit, Discovery Bay Founded in 2012 by Katia Kucher, d.BeFit offers group training, personal training and outdoor classes, including trail running and road running. The focus is on endurance, agility, cardio, speed work and strength. Greenvale Village, DB, 6974 7707, dbefit@gmail.com, www.dbefit.com. EPIC MMA, Tung Chung EPIC MMA, Tung Chung offers a wide range of fitness programmes, including AntiGravity Fitness, CrossFit, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, yoga and mixed martial arts. Seaview Plaza, G/F, Shop F, 8 Tung Chung Waterfront Road, 2786 9699, tungchung@epicmma.com, www.epicmma.com.
Kidding Around Yoga, Discovery Bay Kidding Around Yoga makes yoga fun for kids. By combining creative and interactive activities with music, children learn about breathing, meditation and physical movement, while improving their coordination and concentration. Unit 10, 1/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 5852, admin@movementimprovement.com.hk, www.movementimprovement.com.hk. 40 The Best of Lantau
Mariles de Guzman, Discovery Bay, Mui Wo & Tung Chung Mariles de Guzman is passionate about transforming lives through fitness and nutritional meal programmes. Classes include Zumba Kids, Kids FIT and yoga. Pause Studio, Mui Wo, Crescent Club, Tung Chung, various studios and private sessions in DB. 9079 2987, mariles1@me.com, www.deguzman305.zumba.com. Pause Studio, Mui Wo Pause Studio is a one-stop health and fitness destination offering health products, as well as various classes such as Pilates, yoga, cardio and physiotherapy. G/F, 8 Ngan Kwong Wan Road, Mui Wo, 9708 0187, pausemw@gmail.com, www.pausemuiwo.com. Perun Fitness, Tung Chung & South Lantau Founded by personal trainer Jamie McGregor, Perun Fitness has offered professional training sessions in Lantau since 2011. Ranging from the highly popular boot camp and circuit training to TRX and Boxercise, the outdoor classes provide a full body workout. 6443 6597, jamie@perunfitness.com, www.perunfitness.com. Ryan Lau Personal Trainer, Mui Wo & Cheung Sha Ryan Lau is an energetic and knowledgeable sportsmedicine-fitness coach. His comprehensive training
SPORTS
HK Dragons Football Club
system ranges from boot camp to Crossfit and stand-up paddle. Group classes or one-on-one personal training sessions take place outdoors. 9228 2334, Facebook: Ryan Lau PT.
Treece Fitness, Discovery Bay Treece Fitness provides strategy and structure to help its clients improve their mental and physical strength. It offers personal training sessions, bootcamp group sessions, kids and teen fitness classes and lifestyle advice. 9400 4237, admin@treecesports.com, Facebook: Treece Fitness Discovery Bay.
sports training programmes. Although focusing on soccer and basketball, ASA runs a variety of activities for children aged 18 months to 16 years. One-on-one coaching and private group classes are also offered. The aim is to ignite a change in attitude towards the culture of sport, and how it’s viewed within Hong Kong. 3998 4042, info@adventuresportsacademy.com, www.adventuresportsacademy.com.
YogaUP, Discovery Bay ChauKei, the founder and director of YogaUP, makes it her mission to bring together people of all cultures, ages, sizes and shapes with the tool of yoga. Several forms of yoga are on offer in an intimate and supportive environment. Unit 02, LG/F, Office Block 1, DB North Plaza, DB, hi@yogaup.com.hk, www.yogaup.com.hk.
Asia Pacific Soccer Schools, Tung Chung Asia Pacific Soccer Schools (APSS) is a soccer coaching school for girls and boys aged five and up. APSS aims to provide quality coaching in all lessons, regardless of player ability, with new students always welcome. The curriculum is designed to be fun and demanding, helping all players develop their skills and self-esteem. There is a free trial class for newcomers. Tung Chung Sports Centre, Man Tung Road, Tung Chung, 2385 9677, admin@apsoccer.hk, www.apsoccer.hk.
TEAM SPORTS
DB Pirates, Discovery Bay
TOP PICKS Adventure Sports Academy, Discovery Bay Founded in 2007, Adventure Sports Academy (ASA) has built up an enthusiastic and passionate team of coaches who provide personalised and professional 42 The Best of Lantau
DB Pirates is Lantau’s most successful sports club and DB’s only rugby, netball, dragon boat and hockey club. It offers senior men’s and ladies’ rugby (19 and up), boys’ and girls’ youth rugby (U13 to U19), mini rugby (U6 to U14), senior and youth netball, mini hockey (U6 to U14), dragon boating and the best social membership in Hong Kong. Its mission is to enhance character
We are a community-led rugby club, promoting rugby as a ‘game for all’. We coach girls and boys aged 4-13, and train youth and adult sides. Did you know…? • we are one of Hong Kong’s largest ‘mini’ rugby clubs • we train Sundays (August – April) at the YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College • rugby is not just for boys – over 40% of our players are girls • we are multi-cultural – 50% Hong Kong Chinese, 50% mixture of other nationalities • rugby is not just for kids – we offer touch rugby for youth/adults, and full contact rugby for adults
Together we … • build our physical strength and co-ordination • build our courage and self-esteem • learn to work together as team Fee: HKD600/year for coaching and training, HKD900/year includes kit. For kids, it also means playing at the Hong Kong Mini Rugby Football Union rugby festivals all over Hong Kong. For youth and adults, playing at Hong Kong Rugby Union’s Local Touch Leagues. Join us via:
Tung Chung Rugby-Club,
www.tcrc.org.hk / www.tungchungrugbyclub.org or email: tc.rugby.fc@gmail.com What are you waiting for?! Tung Chung Rugby Club Limited is a non-profit company limited by guarantee (2333568), and part of the Hong Kong Mini Rugby Football Union.
SPORTS
Sportsmanship Gymnastics has been running in DB since 2003
ESF Sports
development through team sports and to develop a family environment within the community. 2516 7397, admin@dbpirates.com, www.dbpirates.com. ESF Sports, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung ESF Sports comprises a range of fun, exciting, challenging and structured sports programmes. Taught by experienced and qualified coaches, the aim is to instil a love of sport and activity in young people through different sports programmes and competitions. ESF Sports caters to kids aged two years (just four months for Baby & Me swim classes) and up, with advanced, competitive squads and leagues for teens. Discovery College, DB, ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung, 2711 1280, sports@esf.org.hk, www.esf.org.hk.
HK Dragons Football Club, Discovery Bay, Tung Chung & Mui Wo The HK Dragons Football Cub offers football coaching for girls and boys of all abilities from the age of three to 21, as well as football camps at various times during the year for all Lantau residents. The Dragons motivates players to try new things, develop their game skills and realise their full potential, both on and off the pitch. Members have the opportunity to compete in tournaments and matches. 2987 4274, acc.admin@dragons.hk, www.dragons.hk. 44 The Best of Lantau
Junior Cricket Academy, Discovery Bay Junior Cricket Academy (JCA) trains every Saturday during term time at Discovery Bay International School. From September, DB founder Nilesh Jhaveri will be fielding U11 and U13 teams in the Hong Kong Cricket Association League. 9011 1319, jcadiscoverybay@hotmail.com. Vikings Football Club, Discovery Bay Vikings Football Club, run by English Football Association qualified coach Richard Hainsworth and a team of professional footballers, caters to children aged two to 12. Sessions, held indoors and out, are split into Mini Vikings (two to four years) and Pro Vikings (five to 12 years). Discovery College, 38 Siena Avenue, DB, 9533 2600, vikingshk@outlook.com, www.vikings.hk.
FEATURED Auskick, Discovery Bay Based on the Australian Auskick programme, Auskick caters for kids aged five to 13 years old. Older teens can join the Junior Dragons, with training, mini-games and opportunities to play matches against other centres. headcoachauskick@gmail.com, www.auskick-hk.com.
Stay up-to-date with all the latest news and events at: AroundDB
arounddb.com aroundDB
around_db
SPORTS
DB Pirates
DB Angels Football Club, Discovery Bay DB’s only all-girls soccer programme, DB Angels Football Club provides a safe, fun and inclusive learning environment. Girls aged six to 14 develop their skills, teamwork and enjoyment of the game. Inexpensive, nonprofit and family-friendly, the club provides dedicated, hands-on coaching on Sunday mornings. Discovery Bay International School, DB, dbangelsfc@hotmail.com, www.dbangelsfc.hk. DB Smashers Cricket Club, Discovery Bay Managed by Ave Saxena and Jonathan Mapp, and coached by Hong Kong International cricketer Ankur Vasishta, DB Smashers holds weekly practice sessions helping players to understand the rules, improve technique and develop a love for cricket. The club welcomes new players from age six to 14 years. avsaxena@gmail.com, hilltopnj@gmail.com.
DBees, Discovery Bay The DBees is a non-profit ice hockey team that offers programmes for boys and girls of all skill levels, aged five and up. Practice sessions are held at Elements Ice Rink in Kowloon on Saturdays. dbeesicehockey@gmail.com, www.dbeeshockey.com. Discovery Bay Cricket Club Silverbackz, Discovery Bay Discovery Bay Cricket Club (DBCC) Silverbackz 46 The Best of Lantau
welcomes able and senior players, as well as juniors aged 11 and up. The club trains every Saturday from 4pm onwards. The senior touring team has tours coming up in Beijing and Bangkok. DB Recreation Club, 9011 1319, dbcricketclub@outlook.com. Discovery Bay Tigers, Discovery Bay Founded in 2011, Discovery Bay Tigers is a familyfriendly baseball club for boys and girls, aged five to 14. Teaching sessions are held on Saturday afternoons. Sports Pitch, DB North Plaza, DB, info@dbtigers.com, www.dbtigers.com.
Kinder Kicks, Tung Chung Kinder Kicks is a soccer-based programme for preschoolers (toddlers through to age five). Special equipment, such as bean bags, mini balls and skittles, is used to develop motor skills, soccer-specific skills and social skills. Tung Chung Sports Centre, Tung Chung, 2385 9677, admin@apsoccer.hk, www.kinderkicks.hk. La Cantera Soccer School, Tung Chung La Cantera Soccer School aims to create an enjoyable, professional atmosphere where young players can learn and develop. Coaches focus on nurturing skill and talent, and encouraging players to focus on technique and tactical elements. 6151 3507, office@lacanterasoccerschool.com, www.lacanterasoccerschool.com.
SPORTS
Lantau Cricket Club, Tung Chung & Pui O Lantau Cricket Club (formerly South Lantau Cricket Club) was established in 2013. Training takes place on Sunday mornings (9am to 10am) at Tung Chung North Park, and on Sunday afternoons (3pm to 5pm) at Pui O Playground. lantau.cricket@gmail.com, Facebook: Lantau Cricket Club.
teams. TCRC plays at the YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College. tc.rugby.fc@gmail.com, www.tungchungrugbyclub.org.
Motiv8sport, Discovery Bay DB-based Motiv8sport provides sports coaching to children and adults. Its varied programmes include tennis lessons, sports camps, swimming and sports parties. 9127 0977, richard@motiv8sport.net, www.motiv8sport.net.
Forward Motion’s team of dedicated tennis professionals provides tennis coaching services for all ages and levels, as well as developing club programmes and organising tennis events. During the holidays, Forward Motion runs popular sports camps for children. Discovery Bay Recreation Club, DB, Club Siena, DB, DB Marina Club, DB, ajit_gidwani@hotmail.com.
RugBees, Discovery Bay At RugBees, Asia’s dedicated rugby-play programme, games and activities are aimed at youngsters from walking age to five years. The new theme this season is superheroes. Classes work on children’s catching, kicking, balancing skills, coordination and teamwork. 2117 3055, nicepeople@rugbees.com, www.rugbees.com. South Lantau Buffaloes Rugby Club, Tai O South Lantau Buffaloes Rugby Club (SLB) is friendly and welcoming, with a great community atmosphere. Run by volunteers, SLB boasts qualified coaches and a team of certified first aiders. Boys and girls, aged four to 18, train at Tai O Playground. slbrugby@fastmail.fm, Facebook: South Lantau Buffaloes Rugby.
TENNIS Forward Motion, Discovery Bay
Pure Tennis Academies, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Pure Tennis Academies provides modern coaching and competitive programmes to suit players of all ages and abilities. Players have the opportunity to improve their technique and challenge themselves. DB Golf Club, DB, Coastal Skyline, Tung Chung, 9813 5111, ricky@puretennisacademies.com, Facebook: Pure Tennis Academies.
Sport4kids, Discovery Bay A sports coaching company for children, aged 18 months to 16 years, Sport4kids offers a mini-sport class on Friday afternoons. Sunshine House, Shop 137-138, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, info@sport4kids.hk, www.sport4kids.hk, Facebook: Sport4kids. Tinytots Soccer, Discovery Bay Tinytots Soccer caters to kids aged one-and-a-half to four years. The programme has been developed by experts, loved by kids, and trusted by parents all over Hong Kong. 3488 7724, info@tinytots.com.hk, www.tinytots.com.hk. Tung Chung Rugby Club, Tung Chung Formed in 2012, Tung Chung Rugby Club (TCRC) has grown fast, and has a vibrant community focus. Young children play non-contact rugby, before moving on to contact in the older age groups. TCRC has an active touch-rugby side, which fields both youth and adult The Best of Lantau 47
SPORTS
Stand-up paddle boarding at Treasure Island, Pui O
WATER SPORTS TOP PICKS ESF Sharks, Discovery Bay Whether children are learning to swim or improving their skills, ESF Sharks’ swimming lessons offer a positive and exciting experience. With professional coaches providing individualised attention, ESF Sharks introduces the fundamental skills of swimming and develops technique and confidence. Children from as young as four months can start to swim with this progressive swim programme, before moving onto competitive opportunities with the squad. ESF Sharks also offers water polo. 2711 1280, swimming@esf.org.hk, www.esf.org.hk/sports/our-sports/swimming/ overview.html. Harry Wright International, Discovery Bay Harry Wright International has been offering a swim programme for children, taught by professional swimming instructors, for almost 40 years. The programme is designed to give children the skills they need to enjoy swimming, while also providing pathways of excellence for competitive swimmers. There is an Infant Aquatics programme for children aged four months to four years, while the Learn to 48 The Best of Lantau
Swim programme is designed for children aged three and up. 2575 6279, swimming@harrywright.com.hk, www.harrywright.com.hk. Lantau Boat Club, Discovery Bay The Lantau Boat Club (LBC) is an ideal location for sailing, paddling, rowing and windsurfing. Run entirely on a voluntary, non-profit basis, the club prides itself on having strong ties with the community and the lowest membership fees of any club of its type in this part of the world. LBC specialises in non-powered, water-based activities, with catamarans, dinghies, canoes, dragon boats and coastal rowing boats. New members are welcome, whether experienced sailors or not. Tai Pak Wan, DB, admin@lantauboatclub.com, www.lantauboatclub.com.
FEATURED Aqua Gym, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Boasting well-qualified swim instructors and experienced triathlon coaches, Aqua Gym was founded in 1989 in DB and has now extended to Tung Chung. It offers a learnto-swim curriculum, plus a youth talent identification programme and triathlon training programmes. 2914 0658, info@aquagym.com.hk, www.aquagym.com.hk, Facebook: AG Triathlon.
SPORTS
Photo courtesy of Palm Beach
Discovery Amateur Swimming Club, Discovery Bay Discovery Amateur Swimming Club is a non-profit, parent-run club, holding swim races for children aged six years and up. Each week swimmers can compete in up to three races of different strokes. The season runs from mid-April to mid-October with a break over the summer. discoveryasc@gmail.com, www.dbswimclub.com. Discovery Bay Yacht Club, Discovery Bay Discovery Bay Yacht Club (DBYC) is an association of yacht owners and crew who enjoy regattas, cruises and races. DBYC prides itself on its approachability, and hosts fun and competitive events throughout the year. commodore@dbyc.net, www.dbyc.net. Kiteboarding Association of Hong Kong, Shui Hau Wan Kiteboarding Association of Hong Kong (KAHK) provides training for kiteboarders of all levels of experience. Packages include a three-day beginner package, one-day Kiteboarding Discovery, one-day private lesson and one-day intermediate. All KAHK instructors are trained and fully qualified. info@kiteboarding.org.hk, www.kiteboarding.org.hk. Kyama Swim School, Discovery Bay Kyama Swim School offers training programmes for adults, learn-to-swim courses for the helper community
and development squads for Discovery College students, as well as private classes. Kyama offers a comprehensive programme that encourages every swimmer to reach his potential. 9487 5049, kyamaswimschool@gmail.com, www.kyamaswimschool.com. Long Coast Seasports, South Lantau Located on Lower Cheung Sha Beach, Long Coast Seasports specialises in kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, kiteboarding and stand-up paddle boarding. It caters for families, groups, organisations and overseas visitors. 8104 6222, info@longcoast.hk, www.longcoast.hk. South Lantau Paddle Club, Cheung Sha South Lantau Paddle Club trains and competes in dragon boat and outrigger canoe races both locally and overseas. The club is devoted to family, friends, community, positivity, fitness and fun. Its ethos is work hard, play harder. southlantaupaddleclub@gmail.com, Facebook: South Lantau Paddle Club. Treasure Island, Pui O Treasure Island Group is now in its 20th year as a trusted leader in outdoor and adventure education, team-building and events. Its summer surf camps are the largest in the region, with over 600 kids participating. 2984 8711, inquiries@treasureislandhk.com, www.treasureislandhk.com. The Best of Lantau 49
SPORTS
Big Sai Wan Golf Society
GOLF Big Sai Wan Golf Society, Discovery Bay Big Sai Wan Golf Society (BSWGS) holds monthly tournaments throughout Hong Kong, as well as annual overseas tours. The club welcomes new members of all skill levels, and prides itself on having as few rules as possible. bigsaiwan@gmail.com, www.bigsaiwan.com. Discovery Bay Residents Golf Society, Discovery Bay Membership of Discovery Bay Residents Golf Society is open to all golfers in Hong Kong. Membership benefits 50 The Best of Lantau
include concessionary green fees at the Discovery Bay Golf Club and the Macau Golf and Country Club. dbrgssecretary@gmail.com, www.dbrgs.com.
MARTIAL ARTS TOP PICKS Hong Kong School of Capoeira, Discovery Bay Hong Kong School of Capoeira (HKSoC) brings you the best of Capoeira, from qualified, native Brazilian teachers with over 20 years’ experience. The art of
SPORTS
Expert tips on staying healthy and active
“Books have been written on the squat alone, and many people argue that it is the most important exercise of all. Whether you use a barbell, kettlebell, or dumbbell, or just your bodyweight, you are working all the muscles in your body. If you are serious about your training, you need to love squats. Some people advise you to squat all the way to the ground, while others say you should squat until your knees are bent at 90 degrees. What’s important is that you squat as low as your hip flexibility allows – and if you’re in good shape you’ll be in the ‘bum to the floor’ and ‘knees at 90 degrees’ zone, anyway.”
Capoeira, a Brazilian dance/ martial art, focuses on balance, flexibility, strength and coordination. HKSoC is proud to uphold its reputation as Hong Kong’s best school of Capoeira, and offers classes for children, teens and adults. The HKSoC represents Capoeira Camara, an internationally recognised Capoeira school led by Mestre Bola Sete. 6846 0789, hongkongcapoeira@gmail. com, www.capoeirahk.com.
FEATURED Daruma Judo Club, Discovery Bay Husband-and-wife team, Cedric Sum, Fourth Dan, and Emily Lau, Third Dan, provide judo education for kids (aged four up) and adults at Daruma Judo Club. The focus is on learning combat skills and getting fit, while becoming considerate of others. Discovery College, 38 Siena Avenue, DB, 6244 6093, www.darumajudo.com.
Jamie McGregor, Perun Fitness, Tung Chung, www.perunfitness.com “A surefire way to fitness, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) involves alternating periods of low to moderate intensity with those of high intensity. For an effective HIIT workout, simply take your favourite workout (running, cycling, punching a boxing bag) and perform it at high intensity (flat out, pushing the heart rate up to 90% maximum) for up to two minutes. Then slow the exercise down to a low intensity level (around 60% maximum heart rate) for an amount of time equal to half the working phase. Repeat this any number of times for no longer than 20 minutes. HIIT is considered more effective than traditional cardio as it increases both your aerobic and anaerobic capacities – truly challenging all the body’s energy systems. It has been shown to speed up your metabolism for up to nine hours after the workout, meaning you’re expending calories long after showering and getting on with your day.” Cindy Reid, The Hit Room, Discovery Bay, www.thehitroom.com.hk
The Best of Lantau 51
SPORTS
SPORTS EQUIPMENT TOP PICKS Lantau Base Camp, Mui Wo 2012-founded Lantau Base Camp prides itself on being run by trail runners for trail runners. The store offers a wide range of products, including sportswear, shoes, backpacks, gels, bars, electrolytes and powdered fuel. Purchases can be made online or at the retail store. Aside from merchandise, Lantau Base Camp also organises weekly runs and annual trail races, its biggest event being the Salomon Lantau Trail 70 in October. 5463 6060, lantaubasecamp@gmail.com, www.lantaubasecamp.com.
FEATURED Action X, Discovery Bay Action X is a specialist in trail running, selling men’s and women’s sportswear along with gear for hiking and other sports. Shop G16A, G/F, DB North Plaza, DB, info@actionxstore.com, www.actionxstore.com.
Bike Energy Lab, Discovery Bay Bike Energy Lab offers bike-fitting services, pre- and post-purchase bike consultations, assembly and servicing. It helps clients identify which advertised
52 The Best of Lantau
features will impact on the suitability and performance of a prospective bike. Peninsula Village, DB, 9770 8420, 6380 6144, bike.energy.lab@gmail.com, www.bike-energy-lab.com. Friendly Bicycle Shop, Mui Wo Friendly Bicycle Shop sells and repairs city, road and mountain bikes of all sizes and type. It also sells all kinds of biking accessories. G/F, Shop 5, Scenic Crest, 18A Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, friendlybicycle@ netvigator.com, Facebook: FriendlyBicycleShop. GigaSports, Discovery Bay GigaSports carries the top brands that competitive sports enthusiasts seek. The store’s complete selection of footwear and apparel is constantly updated to stay ahead of the latest trends and technical innovations. Shop 133, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2320 1238, www.gigasports.com.hk. Mountain Bike Shop, Tung Chung Established in 2003, Mountain Bike Shop provides high-quality biking instruction and advice. Services include bicycle rental, cleaning, bike and component sales, upgrades and maintenance, and monthly parking. 2988 8511, lscnlwk@yahoo.com.hk, www.sunnybike.com.hk, Facebook: Sunny Bike Shop.
Photo courtesy of Gogo Yung
PASTIMES
PASTIMES Dance and gymnastics Creative classes and games Drama and singing Party entertainers www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 53
PASTIMES
Creative writing classes at The Story Studio
PASTIMES DANCE AND GYMNASTICS TOP PICKS Beat Dance and Fitness Studio, Discovery Bay Beat Dance and Fitness Studio was founded by DB residents Ivailo Tonchev and Alyona Zarnitsyna in 2015 with the sole purpose of revealing the beauty of dance and the benefits of exercise to everyone. It is a one-stop, premium-style studio where you can learn how to dance, exercise and stretch – all benefiting a healthy lifestyle. Group and private classes are available for both children and adults. DB Plaza, DB, 5194 9630, info@thebeat.com.hk, www.thebeat.com.hk.
DMR School of Ballet, Discovery Bay Since as far back as 1984, DMR School of Ballet (DMR) has provided quality dance tuition in RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap and Modern and, recently, A.D.A.P.T Jazz. DMR’s main studio is located in DB Plaza with daily classes also held at Discovery College. Students range from three to 18 years and a significant number has gone on to become professional dancers and teachers worldwide. DB Plaza, DB, 2987 4338, info@dmr-hk.com, www.dmr-hk.com. 54 The Best of Lantau
Edge ’n Pointe, Tung Chung Edge ’n Pointe offers quality performing arts training, through a wide array of classes from ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary and musical theatre, to Latin, Zumba and Kindermusik. The faculty is composed of certified teachers who have all performed professionally in their field of expertise, headed by Verna Fajilan-Brazil, a former soloist of Ballet Philippines and the first certified American Ballet Theatre teacher in Hong Kong. Man Tung Sports Centre, 2/F, Tung Chung Municipal Services Building, 39 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung, 6688 2167, admin@edgenpointe.com, www.edgenpointe.com.
FEATURED Dance for Joy, Tung Chung Dance for Joy was founded by Bill and Faye Castillo, who share their experience in a diverse range of dance styles with adults and kids. Their programmes, which include hip-hop, jazz, Cheer Squad, Funky Dance, Latin and Power cardio, are designed to help participants elevate fitness levels while enjoying the
DMR
School of Ballet Est 1984
Meet Our Teachers
Ms Christina Lai Ms Lai is a former Lead Dancer with HK Ballet, an RAD Registered Teacher and renowned Competition judge.
Edge `n Pointe Tung Chung
fun aspect of dance. Dance for Joy caters to beginners and experienced individuals. Man Tung Road Sports Centre, 39 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung, 9264 8597, dance4joyhk@gmail.com, www.danceforjoyhk.com.
Sophie Greenstreet Carter Ms Sophie has completed both her BA(Hons) in Ballet Education & Licentiate of the Royal Academy of Dance.
Future Stars Dance Academy, Discovery Bay Future Stars Dance Academy teaches children different styles of dance, such as Modern Jazz, Lyrical and Acro Jazz, to a high standard. Classes are taught by highly certified, ex-professional dancers with over 20 years of experience. DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 6867, melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com, www.futurestarsdanceschool.com.
Rhianna Davies Ms Rhianna, our ISTD teacher is from Kent in England, and has completed a Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies.
Hong Kong School of Highland Dance, Discovery Bay Students are taught in a safe, professional and fun environment, learning traditional highland dances and the history behind them. Kids aged four and up are welcome. 6169 2536, highlanddancehk@gmail.com, Facebook: Hong Kong School of Highland Dance.
Rachel Wayburne
Rachel Wayburne is a professional dance teacher and is fully certified in Canada’s premier dance syllabus, A.D.A.P.T. (Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers).
iGym Gymnastics iGym Gymnastics founder Kim Doherty, a former South African national gymnast and World Games competitor, aims to instil a passion for the sport and bring her students’ skill sets up to an international standard.
Shop 112 DB Plaza, Discovery Bay HK
2987 4338
www.evoqueportraits.com
info@dmr-hk.com - www.dmr-hk.com
PASTIMES
DC Arts Culture festival
Supportive, high-energy classes are held for kids aged three to 15. Discovery Bay International School, DB, 6077 2758, igymhk@icloud.com.
CREATIVE CLASSES, ART AND GAMES
Island Dance, Discovery Bay & Mui Wo
TOP PICKS
Island Dance is one of Hong Kong’s premier dance schools, offering various styles of dance class to children aged two to 17. Dance venues on Lantau include the Discovery Bay Recreation Club and Club Siena, DB and Mui Wo Sports Centre, Mui Wo. 2987 1571, dance@islanddance.com.hk, www.islanddance.com.hk.
Russian Ballet School, Discovery Bay Russian Ballet School, for kids aged three through to adults, is the first ballet school in Hong Kong that exclusively uses the Vaganova system. Classes follow the Russian Training Syllabus, a scientifically devised and internationally renowned training programme. OpenSpace, Unit 06, G/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 2570 2006, www.russianballetschool-hk.com. 56 The Best of Lantau
Ark Eden, Mui Wo Ark Eden presents Lantau as a living, world-class environmental wonder within Asia, and suggests how its natural assets can be used to benefit education, local communities, Hong Kong residents and overseas visitors. Through a series of integrated permaculture workshops, field trips and camps, every participant is led towards a better understanding of his/ her role in conservation, preservation and sustainability. 2984 8514, arkeden@gmail.com, www.arkedenonlantau.com.
The Story Studio, Discovery Bay, Tung Chung & Mui Wo The Story Studio runs workshops for kids who love writing stories, and mums and dads who’d like
PASTIMES
BENEFITS OF AN ARTS EDUCATION By Sharon Lesley Le Roux Almost from the moment we utter our first words, we begin telling stories. As social creatures, we have an inherent need to cast out our experiences in order to connect with one another. From the Prehistoric Age, when our ancestors painted images on cave walls to chronicle their lives, to today’s Information Age, when we tweet, blog, post and vine our experiences as they happen, we are constantly sharing ourselves, adding to the collective knowledge of who we are. As soon as our children are old enough, we can encourage them to enjoy the arts – to write their own stories and by acting, singing and dancing, tell the stories of others. Our world is busy, fast and noisy. Immersion in the arts allows our children time to disengage and slow down. It offers the quiet space necessary to recognise, explore and express feelings and thoughts that might otherwise remain hidden. Instruction in dance, drama, music and storytelling is also highly social and a lot of fun. As children, we are happy, enthusiastic and curious. As we grow, however, we are socialised into the busy ways of the modern world, becoming serious, analytical, unimaginative and, at times, stressed. Psychotherapists Richard Carlson and
Joseph Bailey suggest, for good mental health, we need to balance analytical and creative thought. They believe a direct correlation exists between the decline in our mental health and our propensity to use analytical thinking more as we grow older, and creative thinking less. Encouraging children to practise the arts helps them benefit from good mental health in the years that follow. Singing, dancing, acting and writing are all acts of creation – physical manifestations of our internal creative impulses. We’ve evolved further than other species because of our ability to envision that which is not – and create it. We don’t measure progress in terms of the achievements we see, hear, smell, taste and feel around us – an award-winning skyscraper, a top chef ’s signature dish – without admiring the creativity of the individuals who bring those things into existence. Creativity is all around us. Before we design and build bridges, hospitals and high-rises, we first visualise them. Before we release the next version of iMac, Tablet and Smartphone, we first innovate. J.K. Rowling believes: “We do not need magic to change the world, we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already: we have the power to imagine better.”
Photo courtesy of Sharon Lesley Le Roux The Best of Lantau 57
www.evoqueportraits.com
PASTIMES
The Unsung Heroes choir
their kids to practise and improve their writing, while exploring their own, unique creativity. Each weekly, 90-minute workshop looks at both the creative and technical side of writing, using a wide range of genres and forms. Students range from seven to 12 years and have English as their first or joint-first language. 6341 3989, thestorystudiohk@yahoo.com, www.thestorystudiohk. com, Facebook:TheStoryStudioHK.
level specific courses, or whole school projects. el@chameleonworkshop.com, www.eleanormccoll.com.
Coding Kids HK, Discovery Bay
FEATURED
Offering classes for kids aged eight to 16, Coding Kids HK blends online, self-guided and self-paced tutorials with unplugged activities that require no computer at all. Although the majority of exploration is done on iPads, coding principles are applied to fun, real-life situations. DB Plaza, DB, 6274 1167, info@tmrwdigital.com, www.codingkidshk.com.
Caissa Hong Kong Chess Club, Discovery Bay
Fun with Art, Tong Fuk
At Caissa Hong Kong Chess Club, avid chess players engage in child-friendly chess instruction or competition and tournaments. From complete beginners to advanced players, Caissa welcomes all those who are interested to join its courses and events. DB Community Centre, DB North Plaza, DB, 9681 2896, www.caissahk.org.
Fun with Art organises weekly workshops and art jams for children. The ethos is that whatever age you are, with a little bit of practice, you can create something beautiful. Facebook: Fun With Art – Tong Fuk.
Chameleon Workshop, Discovery Bay Established in 2002 by DB-based artist Eleanor McColl, Chameleon Workshop provides artist-in-residence programmes. The Chameleon team offers unique creative experiences for art lovers aged eight years and up, whether it’s an artist talk with demonstrations, year58 The Best of Lantau
Kings’ Chinese Chess Academy, operating in Lantau Chinese Chess is a crystallisation of traditional Chinese culture that provides players with valuable skills for modern living. Kings’ Chinese Chess Academy provides classes for enthusiasts, whether beginner, intermediate or advanced. 6093 1590, chinesechessprofessional@gmail.com, www.chinesechessprofessional.com.
PASTIMES
DRAMA AND SINGING TOP PICKS Faust International, Discovery Bay Faust International has specialised in teaching drama and theatre classes for more than 17 years. Students have the opportunity to learn an array of drama techniques through a range of different workshops. Every term a particular theme is explored, for instance improvisation, puppetry or script-work. Students also have performance opportunities throughout the year, from workshop open sessions to the annual Faust Festival. Saturday workshops in DB are for kids aged four to 16. Discovery Bay International School, DB, 2547 9114, info@FaustWorld.com, www.FaustWorld.com.
Inventum Women’s Choir, Discovery Bay Brand-new Inventum Women’s Choir, under the baton of Bethan Clark (founder of Hong Kong’s hugely successful Kassia Women’s Choir), is open to women aged 18 and up. There is no audition and no requirement to read music. The choir, run by the Discovery Bay International School Parent Teacher Association, bases the majority of its performances around the school’s calendar. Rehearsals are every Wednesday during term time from 4pm to 5pm. Discovery Bay International School, DB, inventumwomenschoir@gmail.com, Facebook: Inventum Women’s Choir.
commitment, and having fun. Discovery College, DB, 6894 7243, emma.performersstudio@yahoo.com.
PARTY ENTERTAINERS M.O.P.S. Amsterdam, operating in Lantau The professional and creative M.O.P.S’ make-up team is available for face painting at every occasion, including birthday parties. The team also provides make-up, hairstyling and body painting services for events. Make-up makeover parties are now on offer for teens and tweens. 5910 1107, mopsamsterdam@gmail.com, www.mopsamsterdam.com.
Rumple and Friends, operating in Lantau The sought-after children’s entertainers at Rumple and Friends perform at over 500 parties and events each year. Professionally trained actors, from the US and UK, provide premium party entertainment at affordable prices. 9830 8287, info@rumpleandfriends.com, www.rumpleandfriends.com.
FEATURED Acting Antics, Discovery Bay Children aged four to 13 can develop acting and communication skills by attending performance-based drama classes on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Discovery College, 38 Siena Avenue, DB, 8122 9475, admin@actingantics.com, www.actingantics.com.
DB Glee, Discovery Bay DB Glee offers a fun and engaging way for adults to embrace music, have a laugh and de-stress. Members are not required to audition or read music. jetshk@rocketmail.com.
Performers Studio, Discovery Bay Performers Studio runs two-hour drama camps on the weekend for kids aged four through to adult. The aim is to help children increase their communication skills and confidence by showcasing professionalism and The Best of Lantau 59
PASTIMES EDUCATION
Members-only DB clubs Discovery Bay Golf Club, Discovery Bay One of South East Asia’s premier golfing venues, Discovery Bay Golf Club was designed by renowned golf-course architect, Robert Trent Jones Jr. The 18 and nine-hole courses challenge golfers of all skills levels. Recreational facilities include accommodation, swimming pools and tennis courts. 2987 7273, www.dbgc.hk. Discovery Bay Marina Club, Discovery Bay Discovery Bay Marina Club is the largest, sheltered, stay-aboard marina in Hong Kong. The club provides ample recreational and dining facilities including tennis courts, a gym and swimming pool. 2987 9591, dbmc-reception @dbmc.hk, www.dbmarinaclub.com.
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Discovery Bay Recreation Club, Discovery Bay Discovery Bay Recreation Club (DBRC) provides a range of leisure and dining facilities including three pools, 11 tennis courts, cricket nets, squash courts, a fitness centre and children’s playroom. 2987 7381, dbrc-enquiries@dbrc.hk, www.dbrc.hk. Club Siena, Discovery Bay Club Siena is a modern resort complex with luxurious facilities including function venues, spa and sauna rooms and outdoor pools overlooking the South China Sea. The first-floor restaurant specialises in Thai, Vietnamese and Italian cuisine. 2987 7382, dbrc-enquiries@dbrc.hk, www.dbrc.hk.
EDUCATION
EDUCATION Secondary school supplement
By Anne Murphy Cohen, director ITS Education Asia (School Advisory Services)
How to choose a secondary school Planning ahead for secondary schooling The difference between GCSES, IGCSES, A levels and IB New and expanding schools in Hong Kong
Education listings
Playgroups Kindergartens Primary schools Secondary schools
Schools serving Lantau community without premises on Lantau Tutoring and languages www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 61
EDUCATION
How to Choose a
Secondary School In Hong Kong By Anne Murphy Cohen
T
he considerations involved and the sheer number of secondary school options available can be overwhelming. The first step in selecting a school for your child is, therefore, to assess all options. Do a thorough study of all schools and choose those which seem appealing. Research the past exam scores, teachers, cost, location and anything else that you deem noteworthy.
Note which primary schools the majority of students come from. This will give you an idea of whether or not fellow students come from a reputable primary school. Choosing a school is a process of elimination. It is vital you see several schools; even if the first school you visit feels right, you should visit others to confirm or counter this instinct. When visiting the various school campuses, take note of the curriculum and activities offered, and also of the atmosphere. A school’s students are its best, or worst, marketing tool – do the students look happy? How about the staff? Be prepared to revisit, refine and re-prioritise your wish list.
Criteria to assess Once you have narrowed down your options, ensure that each school on your shortlist meets the following criteria. School ranking, in terms of academic achievement and exam scores, is of the utmost importance. The best way to familiarise yourself with secondary school rankings is to do some research online and research exams scores for
the past three years. School reputation is significant to all parents, and is best assessed through word of mouth. Talk to parents whose children attend the school you are interested in. You can also view the school’s website to assess what makes it unique and what successes its students have achieved. School character and culture is as important as academic achievement. Note the overall environment and attitude of a school, along with the students’ etiquette and overall attitude. Children flourish best in a positive environment at a school with a clear belief in core values. Teaching approach is crucial – choose a school whose medium of instruction correlates with your child’s learning style. The staff should be positive and devoted to mentoring their students. Teachers should be willing to take the time to talk with students, as well as inspire and motivate them to learn and succeed. Extracurricular activities are crucial, in particular specific choices which may add value to a university application. These activities are also beneficial to a student’s physical and mental health, and they keep children busy and active and out of mischief.
Illustration by Fred Boot
Thoughts for parents You want to find a great school, one that’s ideal for your child, with high-calibre teachers and facilities to match, so you need to ask yourself: What do I want for my child? But remember that you are looking for a school that will suit your child – not yourself. So ask yourself: What is The Best of Lantau 63
EDUCATION
It is important to be realistic. A not-very-academic child will be much happier in a non-selective school which delivers a holistic curriculum with a strong focus on the arts, sports and other non-academic programmes. Last but not least, rely on instinct. Did you walk into the school and feel at home? If not you can scratch it off your list. Did you find the head impressive? You don’t have to like him/ her but it helps; the head really does make or break a school. Is there a member of staff at the school who is on the same wavelength as you? There must be someone you can turn to and feel in tune with. Go with your gut reaction – the atmosphere of a school you are considering should be tangible and excite both you and your child.
“
Children flourish best in a positive
“
my child really like? What type of school would he/ she enjoy attending? Assuming your child is old enough, be sure to involve him/ her in the selection process.
environment at a school with a clear belief in
Contact Anne Murphy Cohen, director of ITS Education Asia (School Advisory Services) at anne.m@itseducation.asia, or visit www.itseducation.asia.
core values.
Discovery College IB World School educating students in Years 1-13
Discovery College provides an environment that fosters a passion for learning, enabling all students to Grow. Discover. Dream. Our teachers and staff, recruited from among the world’s best, provide a well-rounded and high-quality education. Discovery College graduates go on to attend top universities all over the world.
Discovery College 38 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay Lantau Island, Hong Kong +852 3969 1000 office@dc.edu.hk www.discovery.edu.hk
Established by the English Schools Foundation (ESF), we welcome applications from students across Hong Kong. Scholarships are available for exceptional Secondary students.
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EDUCATION
PLANNING AHEAD FOR
SECONDARY SCHOOLING By Anne Murphy Cohen
W
hether it’s a place at a top university, an excellent apprenticeship or landing a great job, the high quality teaching and supportive environment at international secondary schools in Hong Kong aims to help every student reach his/ her potential. Applications for Year 7 are filed usually in September of the previous year. Admission criteria for a Year 7 place takes in performance in the interviews/ written assessments, academic results for the past two years, excellence in extracurricular activities and any additional awards or achievements that the applicant may have. Competition is fierce, so you need to apply to more than one secondary school if your child is not already attending a through-train school. International school students aged 12 commonly either follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Program (MYP), or the English National Curriculum (Key Stage 3). Parents considering a move into the American school system need to bear in mind that students will be required to take the Standard Schools Admissions Test (SSAT) and, in Hong Kong, the common testing system for entry is the Independent School Entrance Examination (ISEE).
Over 70% of the students in the junior forms are international students. In Forms 3 and 4, students follow an integrated curriculum, which combines the content of both the Hong Kong Curriculum and English National Curriculum. In Forms 5 and 6, students can choose to continue with the Hong Kong Curriculum leading to the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education, or apply to study A Levels.
The final years In their last years at school, Hong Kong’s international school students work on advanced qualifications whether through the IB, English National Curriculum, or US Advanced Placement. Students are advised to check out degree requirements and their compulsory and preferred subject choices. A wrong decision at this stage can have significant consequences for future degree and career choices. The right decision can pave the way for a brilliant future.
Lantau focus ESF schools offer the English National Curriculum from Years 9 to 11 with students completing their I/ GCSE exams and then moving on to complete their IB Diploma (IB DP) in Years 12 and 13, or completing vocational courses under the UK BTEC programme. Discovery Bay International School follows the English National Curriculum and currently offers classes to Year 11. Discovery College students graduate with an IB DP. YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) is a Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) secondary school with English as the medium of instruction. It is not an international school as such, but it does provide international-style education.
Discovery College students
Contact Anne Murphy Cohen, director of ITS Education Asia (School Advisory Services) at anne.m@itseducation.asia, or visit www.itseducation.asia. The Best of Lantau 65
EDUCATION
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
GCSES, IGCSES, A LEVELS AND IB DP By Anne Murphy Cohen
I
f there is one certainty about the examination system, it is that nothing stays the same. You may remember that in 1988 the GCSE exam replaced the former O Level (GCE) and CSE exams, and coursework for GCSEs was introduced for the first time. Since then there has been much debate about the value and structure of the current system, and further changes have been made to the balance of coursework and final exams. If that isn’t enough for parents – and schools – to contend with, there are now two other examinations available for secondary school pupils: the International GCSE (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IB DP). Before looking at the differences between these qualifications, it’s worth understanding that you may have no choice which exam your child is entered for. Some schools offer both GCSE and IGCSE but if your heart is set on your child studying for IGCSE or the IB DP you may have to change schools, particularly at 16 for the IB DP. So what are the differences and, if you do have a choice, which might suit your child best?
GCSE Students studying GCSEs are typically aged 14 to 16, and the majority focus on eight to 10 subjects. Until 68 The Best of Lantau
2013, the GCSE exam consisted of coursework – sometimes referred to as ‘controlled assessment’ – and exams. A review by Ofqual in 2013 concluded that the coursework element of GCSEs should be scrapped except, for example, in some subjects, including the sciences, where experiments could demonstrate pupils’ knowledge. The emphasis now is for GCSE exams to be linear – that is with one final exam – rather than modular – the previous structure which allowed pupils to be assessed on smaller chunks of learning across two years. Although some exam boards still offer modular GCSE courses, since 2015 only linear courses are accepted as qualifications for colleges in the UK. GCSE exam grades are currently A* to G but are likely to be replaced with Grades 1 to 9. At present, some exams are two-tier, so Illustration by Fred Boot students can be entered for the higher or foundation tiers with their final grade being determined by the tier. For example, at foundation level a Grade C may be the maximum. The GCSE course usually takes two years to complete but some schools allow more able pupils to complete it in one year, or take the exams a year earlier. The majority of the exams are in June, with re-sits taken in November. Pupils are no longer able to take English
EDUCATION
and Mathematics exams in November as their first entry, only for re-sits.
IGCSE Students studying IGCSEs are typically aged 14 to 16, and the majority focus on eight to 10 subjects. The IGCSE was first introduced around 25 years ago so that pupils overseas, whose first language was not necessarily English, could take the exam. The syllabus includes many elements that are now not in the revised GCSE – mainly coursework. Assessment takes place at the end of the course and includes written, oral, coursework and practical assessment. Grades are the same as for GCSEs (A* to G), again likely to be replaced with Grades 1 to 9. The subjects which can be studied are the same as for GCSE but more foreign languages are offered. While opinions on GCSE and IGCSE exams vary, many more state schools are entering their pupils for the IGCSE exam because they prefer the mix of coursework and exams, which is no longer evident in the GCSE curriculum. The IGCSE is offered at different levels, and some teachers think that it has more scope for more able pupils at the higher level. There is also more scope for teachers to choose from a wider range of material. If your child achieves higher marks with coursework and performs badly under exam conditions, then IGCSE is an option. But be aware that while an increasing number of universities accept IGCSE English, some will not.
A Levels A Level students are typically aged 16 to 18, and the majority focus on three or possibly four subjects. The system is advantageous to pupils who do not excel in a wide range of subjects, and to those who know at an early age which subjects they want to specialise in. As with GCSEs, A Levels are linear and not modular – students work towards final exams at the end of the two-year course. Grades, currently A* to G, are likely to be replaced by Grades 1 to 9. In the past, A Levels were divided into two levels: AS at the end of Year 12 and A2 at the end of Year 13, with AS levels forming the first year of a full A Level course. 70 The Best of Lantau
AS now exists as a standalone course but does not form part of the overall A2 grade. AS courses offer students a broader understanding of a subject but not as much as a full A Level.
IB DP The International Baccalaureate curriculum is available at several levels but students aged 16 to 18 prepare for the IB DP. Highly regarded by universities, it includes six groups of subjects. Students work towards final exams at the end of the two-year course. IB DP students must choose one subject from each of five groups (1 to 5), ensuring breadth of knowledge and understanding in their best language, additional language(s), the social sciences, the experimental sciences and maths. Students may choose either an arts subject from group 6, or a second subject from groups 1 to 5. At least three and not more than four subjects are taken at higher level (240 teaching hours), while the other subjects are taken at standard level (150 teaching hours). Students can study, and take their examinations, in English, French or Spanish. The overall grade is a total of all the key areas studied – not each separate subject. Students are awarded a grade from 1 to 7 for each of the six key subject areas. In addition, 3 marks are available for certain parts of the course, making a possible total of 45 points. The pass mark is 24 points as long as a minimum number of marks is achieved across each part, along with a satisfactory level of achievement on Creativity, Action and Service (CAS). The workload is demanding and some students have to work extremely hard to maintain and achieve good grades across each subject area. That said, the IB DP provides an opportunity for students to study several subject areas in depth, as well as focusing on personal development alongside academic study. This can be attractive to pupils who find it difficult to choose only three or four A Level subjects and who don’t want to specialise too early.
Contact Anne Murphy Cohen, director of ITS Education Asia (School Advisory Services) at anne.m@itseducation.asia, or visit www.itseducation.asia.
YEW CHUNG INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
PROVIDES HOLISTIC PLATFORM FOR TERTIARY SUCCESS
F
YEW CHUENG
or many secondary students, the ultimate objective continues to be successful entry into university either at home or overseas. The educational environment adopted at Yew Chung International School (YCIS), its IB Diploma Programme coupled with students’ unlimited access to their University Guidance Office (UGO) is the perfect springboard to further academic success.
Years 12–13 (from ages 16–19) for proven success at university when they graduate.
With such a holistic approach to learning, it is not surprising that YCIS graduates receive multiple offers from the world’s top universities All IB Diploma students take six subjects: three at higher level, three at standard level. These subjects must include maths, one science, one humanities subject, English language and/or literature, one creative subject and one foreign language.
YCIS, conveniently located in the schools hub district of Kowloon Tong, has been offering the IB Diploma Programme since 2000. The Programme is academically rewarding and fully prepares students in
Additionally, students must also submit a research-oriented 4,000 word extended essay (ideal for university preparation), a “theory of knowledge” paper, as well as complete a series of tasks related to Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS).
CAS activities are varied and may include learning an instrument (creative endeavours), teaching art to kids (community service), and participating in sports (physical challenges). CAS helps students balance academic accomplishments while encouraging them to engage in experiential learning and reflection. One of the great benefits of studying at YCIS is its outstanding Chinese Language and Culture Programme, which provides all IB Diploma candidates with daily Chinese lessons in addition to their IB elective courses. These are adapted to fit all students’ language levels as they participate in class discussions on important global and cultural topics and enjoy a variety of Chinese cultural events throughout the year. It also fosters deeper connections within the local community.
end up going after they graduate, it is the journey they have made during the Programme and what they have learned about themselves, as well as the
YEW CHUENG
With such a holistic approach to learning, it is not surprising that YCIS graduates receive multiple offers from the world’s
top universities, accessing a broad range of further education subjects, including music, film, engineering, science, art, business studies, and more. YCIS’s UGO head, Grace Poling, takes a wider view: “It is not just the prestige of the institutions where they [the students]
preparation they have made for the next chapter of their lives.” Students can access the services of the UGO on an individual or group basis and are evaluated by various means: overall academic achievements; an extensive “student profile” questionnaire; and feedback from teachers. Often students have no idea of how best to begin the daunting university applications process; guidance and instruction from the UGO allows for thorough investigation of the many choices available to them. The UGO team seeks to empower students by giving them the confidence to make the right decisions and ultimately find the best tertiary institution to fulfil their educational and career aspirations. Ms. Poling remarks: “While we are so very pleased to see the positive outcome of their [IB students’] hard work, the most rewarding and valuable experience for us, as guidance counsellors, really is the growth we have witnessed among our students and their transition into maturity.”
EDUCATION
NEW AND EXPANDING
SCHOOLS IN HONG KONG By Anne Murphy Cohen
I
nternational school options for families in Hong Kong, which have been hugely challenging for several years, look set to improve between 2016 and 2018. Places for secondary grade levels have been somewhat easier to obtain than places in early childhood or primary sections for many years. Due to the rampant demand for English-medium education, many major British public schools and American-based curriculum schools are opening in Hong Kong over the next few years, while a number of existing international schools are in the process of expanding.
The school is initially open for kindergarten through Grade 6, basing its curriculum on the US Common Core. It will evolve into a full-scale K-12 school offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IB DP), the US High School Diploma and Advanced Placement options. Headquartered in Dubai, ESOL Education currently serves over 10,000 students, operating a total of nine international schools in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Aley and Nicosia. For more information, visit www.ashk.hk.
NEW SCHOOLS
American School Hong Kong
Stamford American School Hong Kong
Open: August 2016
Stamford American School Hong Kong
A non-profit, non-denominational school, by ESOL Education, the American School Hong Kong (ASHK) in Tai Po offers an accredited North American education. The school takes a holistic approach to education and promotes a strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programme.
Owned by Cognita, a leading international schools group currently encompassing 69 schools in eight countries, Stamford American School Hong Kong will offer an American standards-based curriculum for children aged five to 18.
American School Hong Kong
74 The Best of Lantau
Opening: September 2017
At ICHK we are motivated by learning. And learning is at the heart of everything we do: individually and collectively, the entire school: learning together. In ICHK’s close-knit community, students thrive and inspirational teachers share a passion to be the best educators they can be. Our unique, innovative curriculum combines the best features from programmes around the world with elements of our own design and blends them into a stimulating, challenging learning journey.
In an information and ideas based economy, it is attitudes and mindsets, no less than qualifications, that will underpin ongoing enjoyment of life, performance and success. ICHK is proud to have created – and continually to evolve - a school experience that best prepares young people for a world where only change is permanent. At ICHK, education is everything. A school where we are all learning together, thoughtfully.
Our school is small by intention and fuelled by a commitment to provide students with a cutting-edge, research-driven education. An IB World School, we are situated in a stunning location in the New Territories, providing students with unrivalled outdoor opportunities and experiences. Students at ICHK gain internationally recognised academic qualifications, whilst developing the essential life skills of critical thinking, leadership, personal resilience, collaboration and independent learning.
What the Council for International School says about ICHK: “ICHK is a welcoming, inclusive, happy and caring school. Students are happy and see themselves as learners, leaders and potential leaders.
Contact information: Address: 60 Sha Tau Kok Road, Shek Chung Au, Sha Tau Kok, New Territories Tel: (852) 2655 9018 Email: info@ichk.edu.hk Website: www.ichk.edu.hk
EDUCATION
Malvern College Hong Kong
Ensuring individualised learning for every child, students will undergo regular, standardised Measures of Academic Progress assessments in reading, mathematics and science. Pupils will progress to pre-university testing from Grade 8 and the IB DP examinations. For more information, visit www.sais.hk
Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong Opening: August 2018 Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong will be the second international school established by Shrewsbury School UK – its first sister school, Shrewsbury International School Bangkok opened in 2003. Shrewsbury School was founded by Royal Charter in 1552. Over the centuries, it has grown in size and reputation and is now ranked among the leading coeducational boarding schools in the UK. The new school in Tseung Kwan O will offer the English National Curriculum and will be capable of accommodating more than 850 international students, aged five to 11. About 20% of places will be reserved for local children. For more information, visit 76 The Best of Lantau
www.shrewsbury.org.uk.
Malvern College Hong Kong Opening: September 2018 Malvern College Hong Kong (MCHK) will be located in Tai Po in close proximity to the Hong Kong Science Park, the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Hong Kong Institute of Education. This will be Malvern College’s fourth planned international school and comes after the successful launch of Malvern College Qingdao in 2012, Malvern College Chengdu in 2015 and Malvern College Egypt in September 2016. The school will initially offer 380 primary places, rising to a capacity of 960 places once full and will offer an International Baccalaureate curriculum. Placing equal emphasis on the personal development of students, aged six to 12, MCHK will offer a wide range of co-curricular activities as well as a house system for all students. The school also plans to launch a scholarship programme for students from socially underprivileged and ethnic minority backgrounds with outstanding academic performance. For more information, you can visit www.malverncollege.org.hk.
Australian International School Hong Kong
Connect, Strive, Flourish
Australian International School Hong Kong (AISHK) is a world-class learning environment, enabling and nurturing each student to reach their full academic, cultural, physical and emotional potential. As part of its dedication to offering broad yet tailored academic choices of study, AISHK offers senior students the option to undertake either the New South Wales Higher School Certificate (HSC) or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. Operating on an Australian school year (late-January to mid-December), AISHK provides students with varied pathways to all Universities in Australia and around the world. Places now available in Primary and Secondary. Contact Admissions to book a tour. Phone: +852 2304 6078 E-mail: admissions@aishk.edu.hk www.aishk.edu.hk
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3A Norfolk Road, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
EDUCATION
Harrow International School Hong Kong
EXPANDING CAMPUSES
an open-plan lounge and a two-storey library. For more information, visit www.ths.edu.hk.
Development is underway for a new state-of-the-art campus for the Christian Alliance International School in Lai Chi Kok. This new campus, which will offer a Canadian curriculum for children aged three to 18, is expected to open in late 2016. The development will enable the school to increase its intake from 750 to 1,600 students. For more information, visit www.cais.edu.hk.
Already underway, the expansion of Hong Kong International School (HKIS) will be completed in 2017. Currently educating more than 2,600 children, aged four to 18, from over 40 different countries, the school follows an American curriculum and is located across two spacious campuses in Tai Tam and Repulse Bay. For more information, visit www.hkis.edu.hk.
Harrow International School Hong Kong, which was the first international co-educational day and boarding school in Hong Kong when it opened in Tuen Mun in September 2012, has been growing rapidly. It began the 2015-16 academic year with a student roll of over 1,100, and new K1 and 2, Year 1, 6 and 12 classes were in place for August 2016 entry. For more information, visit www.harrowschool.hk. The Harbour School (THS) moved to a new location in Ap Lei Chau in August 2016, allowing it to accommodate 500 students from kindergarten to Grade 8. THS currently has 165 students in its mainstream school and 18 in The Children’s Institute, its centre for autistic students. THS offers an American-based curriculum with a strong emphasis on science, history and social studies, plus a wide selection of extracurricular classes. Facilities in the new campus include an indoor forest, 78 The Best of Lantau
French International School (FIS) will open a new purpose-built campus in Tseung Kwan O in August 2018 in response to the growing number of families living in Kowloon and the New Territories. The school will be able to welcome 410 students from both international and French streams and its goal is to reach full capacity within five years. By expanding its presence in the New Territories, FIS aims to extend its spirit and ethos of community involvement through various community programmes and schemes. For more information, visit www.fis.edu.hk. Contact Anne Murphy Cohen, director of ITS Education Asia (School Advisory Services) at anne.m@itseducation.asia, or visit www.itseducation.asia.
We are an international community school committed to the constant pursuit of excellence in order to achieve the best possible outcomes for all our students. We are intent on ensuring that every student is supported and encouraged to reach their individual potential. Our students enjoy a broad international curriculum with British characteristics and a distinctive learning journey that begins in Early years (age 3-5), progresses to the Primary school (age 6-11), and culminates in the Secondary school (age 12-16) The DBIS student experience is characterised by a highly personalised learning environment, small class sizes, creative approaches to teaching and learning, and a broad range of extra curricular activities. Students at DBIS thrive when faced with a challenge and are increasingly exposed to the dynamic, active and engaging opportunities and experiences both inside and outside the classroom. The school has developed in tandem with the community it serves. Established in 1983 with an initial cohort of 3 students and 3 staff, the school now comprises of over 40 different nationalities, 1060 students and 188 staff located on two very well resourced campuses. The key facilities available for our students include: extensive outdoor play areas, a multi-purpose turf, an auditorium, a gymnasium, a 25-metre swimming pool, drama rooms and music and design technology suites. We believe that we are well placed for further growth, development and success as our actions are rooted in strong collective values and a desire to equip our students with the skills, knowledge and mindset needed for a happy and successful life.
We are hosting an Open Day on January 6 2017. To register, please visit: www.dbis.edu.hk/399 For further information about our school please visit www.dbis.edu.hk
Paul Tough | Head of School | Telephone: 2987 7331 | Email: dbis@dbis.edu.hk
EDUCATION
KIDZNJOY English Playgroups
EDUCATION PLAYGROUPS TOP PICKS Discovery Mind Play Centre, Discovery Bay Discovery Mind Play Centre offers a Tworiffics course for children aged 15 months to two years. It provides young children with a gentle introduction to pre-school life, accompanied by a familiar adult. The playgroup class, for pupils aged two to three years, teaches children of all different backgrounds and languages to accommodate and accept each other in a harmonious learning environment. Shop 139B, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 8028, pc@discoverymind.edu.hk, www.discoverymind.edu.hk.
Funfit, Discovery Bay Funfit is an action-packed playgroup for children from six months to three years. The activities stimulate every area of a child’s development in a safe and nurturing environment. Each class is 45 minutes in duration and provides free play on an awesome equipment circuit, as well as structured circle time for both kids and parents. Every Monday and Thursday. Club Siena, DB, 6302 6327, magough123@gmail.com.
KIDZNJOY English Playgroups, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung KIDZNJOY English Playgroups offer a unique programme with a structured methodology and rich content designed for early childhood. KIDZNJOY has multiple centres around Hong Kong, including two in Tung Chung and one at EpicLand in DB. Children, aged nine months to three years, learn all the basics through a variety of fun educational activities, including singing and dancing, arts and crafts, circle-time, 3D story-telling, sensory trays and much more. EpicLand, DB North Plaza, DB. Seaview Crescent Clubhouse, Tung Chung. Coastal Skyline Clubhouse, Tung Chung. 6273 7347, info@kidznjoy.com, Facebook: Kidznjoy Playgroups Hong Kong.
Playtime Kids, Discovery Bay Run by a Montessori-trained and first-aid qualified teacher, Playtime Kids playgroup has both drop-off classes (for children aged 15 months to four years) and mum and baby sessions (six months to 24 months). Activities include free supervised play, story time, snack time, singing and dancing, painting and colouring, rice The Best of Lantau 81
EDUCATION
Bayview House of Children
and sand play and baking. Playtime Kids provides a supporting, stimulating and loving environment for children’s interaction and learning. Peninsula Village, DB, 9054 0565, playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com, www.playtimekidsdb.com.
Woodentots, Discovery Bay
the best start in life. Classes are filled with singing, action, rhyming, storytelling and more. Shop 10, Coastal Skyline, 12 Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, soundwavestungchung@gmail.com, www.soundwaves.com.hk/tung-chung, Facebook: Becky’s Playgroup.
Providing the full, child-centered Montessori experience, Woodentots, run by Natalie Regazzoni, offers a caring and nurturing environment where children grow and learn through self-discipline and self-discovery. It offers a wide range of activities to keep children productive and entertained. For children aged two-and-a-half to five years. DB Plaza, DB, 6108 9131, woodentotsdb@gmail.com, Facebook: Woodentots DB.
Early Adventures Playgroup, Discovery Bay
FEATURED
Fledgling Playgroups, Mui Wo
Bayview House of Children, Discovery Bay Bayview House of Children offers classes for children aged 18 months to six years. It provides a rich learning environment appropriate to children’s needs at each stage of their development. Units 05 & 06, LG/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 6114 2436, ramesha@bayview.hk, www.bayview.hk.
Part of the OWLS centre in Mui Wo, Fledgling Playgroups has never more than five kids in a group. Children, aged two to three, benefit from a bright, stimulating environment and experienced teachers. 1/F, Unit A, Silver Centre Building, 10 Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, 2984 0006, owls@netvigator.com, www.muiwoowlsschool.edu.hk.
Becky’s Playgroup, Tung Chung
Little Explorers, Discovery Bay
Becky’s Playgroup provides a fun, interactive learning programme to ensure children, aged one to three, get
Little Explorers is an established playgroup that provides a caring and stimulating learning
82 The Best of Lantau
Early Adventures Playgroup offers a warm and caring environment. Children are given the opportunity to participate in exciting and interesting activities to ensure they achieve their full potential. For children aged 20 months to four years. Greenvale Village, DB, 9511 2107, sarah@earlyadventures.net, www.earlyadventures.net.
EDUCATION
Bayview House of Children beach clean-up
environment. The emphasis is on learning through play and having loads of fun. It caters for children aged 18 months and up. 9327 0507.
Little Stars at Play, Tung Chung Little Stars at Play offers classes for kids aged nought to six. Both accompanied and unaccompanied playgroup classes are on offer, plus themed and special interest classes. Tung Chung North Park Activity Room, Chinese Herb Garden, Gate B2, Tung Chung, 6479 0390, Facebook: Little Stars At Play.
Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) approach to learning, providing an open and warm environment for children aged three to five. DBIS Early Years currently has five nursery classes and five reception classes. Each class comprises 20 students, one teacher and one fulltime education assistant. The facilities are spacious and welcoming, and include purpose-built classrooms, an engaging outdoor play area and indoor reception room, a library, music room and computer suite. Discovery Bay Road, DB, 2914 2142, dbis@dbis.edu.hk, www.dbis.edu.hk.
Tree of Joy, Discovery Bay Tree of Joy is an extension of the family experience where children play and learn in a fun, engaging and supportive setting. Run by a qualified and experienced Early Years teacher, programmes include a nursery class, parent-toddler class, afternoon camp and cooking class. Peninsula Village, DB, 9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com.
KINDERGARTENS TOP PICKS Discovery Bay International School, Discovery Bay The Early Years section is the starting point for the
www.thetomatoes.com The Best of Lantau 83
EDUCATION
Discovery Mind Kindergarten, DB & Tung Chung
Discovery Mind Kindergarten, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Discovery Mind Kindergarten (DMK) has been providing children with an international education for 20 years. It offers both an international curriculum and a bilingual curriculum, through classes for children
aged two years eight months to five years. Kindergarten students have priority going forward to Discovery Mind Primary School. G/F, 2-8 Coastline Villa, DB, 2987 8088, dmk@discoverymind.edu.hk. G/F, Seaview Crescent, 8 Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, 2987 8070, dmtc@discoverymind.edu.hk, www.discoverymind.edu.hk.
ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung ESF International Kindergarten offers an English language (and Chinese as an additional language) education for children aged three to five years. Pupils are provided with a highly interactive, fun and stimulating learning environment. 1/F, Commercial Accommodation, The Visionary, 1 Ying Hong Street, Tung Chung, 3742 3500, kinder@tc.esf.org.hk, www.esfkindergartens.org.hk.
Lantau International School, Cheung Sha
www.clipartpanda.com
84 The Best of Lantau
Established in 1995, Lantau International School (LIS) offers two reception classes, with a choice of full- or half-day classes. The school follows the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage with Mandarin taught as a second language. Situated in low-rise buildings in beautiful Cheung Sha, LIS is truly an international kindergarten made up of children and teachers from all over the world. 22 Upper Cheung Sha Village, 2984 0302, lisadmin@lis.edu.hk, www.lis.edu.hk.
EDUCATION
Mui Wo OWLS Kindergarten, Mui Wo Opened in 2009, Mui Wo OWLS Kindergarten aims to provide an environment where children’s natural love for life and learning is encouraged, nurtured and intrinsically instilled, so that students will become lifelong learners. The school is bilingual, following the English National curriculum and the Hong Kong Curriculum. The low student-teacher ratio allows for individualised attention. 1/F, Unit A, Silver Centre Building, 10 Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, 2984 0006, owls@netvigator.com, www.muiwoowlsschool.edu.hk/kindergarten.
FEATURED Buddhist Cheung Mui Kwai Kindergarten, Tai O Buddhist Cheung Mui Kwai Kindergarten, established in 1995, follows the English National Curriculum, offering K1, K2 and K3 programmes. KG01, Kindergarten
Block, Lung Tin Estate, Phase II, Tai O, 2985 6544, bcmk1234@ymail.com.
Discovery Montessori School, Discovery Bay Discovery Montessori School (DMS) is an international pre-school following the traditional Montessori method. It offers a bilingual (English and Putonghua) immersion curriculum. The DMS classroom environment sets children free to respond to their natural tendency to work. Shop 101, 1/F, DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 1201, www.discoverymontessori.info.
Greenfield English (International) Kindergarten, Tung Chung Greenfield English (International) Kindergarten, established in 1994, sees children explore a world of fun, knowledge and challenges. English and Chinese are
ENGLISH PLAYGROUP Lantau Centers
EpicLand, Discovery Bay Seaview Crescent, Tung Chung Coastal Skyline, Tung Chung
Visit: www.kidznjoy.com Email: info@kidznjoy.com Tel: 62737347
Kidznjoy Playgroups Hong Kong
The Best of Lantau 85
EDUCATION
Lantau International School, Pui O
taught simultaneously. Podium, 1/F, Caribbean Bazaar, Caribbean Coast, 1 Kin Tung Road, Tung Chung, 2162 5538, www.greenfield.edu.hk.
Kind Hing Trinity International Kindergarten & Nursery, Mui Wo Kind Hing Trinity International Kindergarten & Nursery follows the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage and integrates Cantonese into the curriculum, as well as daily Putonghua. Children are encouraged to express themselves through the performing arts. G/F, Sea Crest Terrace, 19 Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, 2109 9886, info@deikindergarten.org, www.deikindergarten.org.
La Petite Enfance Kindergarten, Discovery Bay La Petite Enfance is a French kindergarten registered with the Education Bureau of Hong Kong. Children follow French or an International French-EnglishMandarin curriculum. Unit 05, LG/F, Office Block 1, DB North Plaza, DB, 6071 3136, info@ecole-discovery.com, www.ecole-discovery.com.
Sunshine House, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Sunshine House is an international preschool committed to providing a vibrant and nurturing learning environment that gives children the very best start in 86 The Best of Lantau
life. The Tung Chung campus has a spacious outdoor playground, enabling children to develop various skills through supervised play. Shop 137-138, 1/F, DB Plaza, 2987 8143, dbay@sunshinehouse.com.hk, 2 Mei Tung Street, Tung Chung Crescent, tungchung@sunshinehouse.com.hk, 2109 3873, www.sunshinehouse.com.hk.
PRIMARY TOP PICKS Discovery Bay International School, Discovery Bay The experience for primary school students at Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) is characterised by a highly personalised learning environment, small class sizes, creative approaches to teaching and learning, and a broad range of extracurricular activities. DBIS was established in 1983 with an initial cohort of three students and three staff. The school now comprises over 40 different nationalities, 1,070 students and 163 staff across two well-resourced campuses. It offers a broad international curriculum with British characteristics. Discovery Bay Road, DB, 2987 7331, dbis@dbis.edu.hk, www.dbis.edu.hk.
EDUCATION
Discovery Mind Primary School students
Discovery College, Discovery Bay
FEATURED
Discovery College (DC) is a private independent school run by ESF that has been educating students since 2008. For students aged three to 12, the international, transdisciplinary IB Primary Years Programme focuses on the development of the child as an inquirer, both in the classroom and in the world outside. DC is known for its award-winning state-of-the-art design, exceptional performing arts centre, gymnasium spaces, heated swimming pool, library, science labs and more. 38 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay, 3969 1000, office@dc.edu.hk, www.discovery.edu.hk.
Bui O Public School, Pui O
Lantau International School, Tong Fuk & Pui O Set up in 1993, Lantau International School (LIS) caters to children from Years 1 to 6 across two campuses. Years 1 to 3 are based in Tong Fuk, Years 4 to 6 in Pui O. Due to its bucolic campus location, LIS is known as the greenest school in Hong Kong. It provides a firstclass English education, with an academic programme based on the English National Curriculum and SAT examination system. 113 Tong Fuk Village, 2980 3676, 17 - 19 Lo Wai Tsuen, Pui O, 2984 0302, lisadmin@lis.edu.hk, www.lis.edu.hk. 88 The Best of Lantau
Bui O Public School offers a free, Chinese education. Adjustments are made to teaching materials and assessment procedures to meet the needs of non-native speakers. South Lantau Road, Pui O, 2984 1189, buioschool@hotmail.com, www.buiosch.edu.hk.
Discovery Mind Primary School, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Discovery Mind Primary School (DMPS) integrates a British and international curriculum with a comprehensive Putonghua programme. The DB campus serves Years 2 to 4, the Tung Chung campus covers Years 2 to 6. 1/F, Shop 102, DB North Plaza, DB, 2914 2202, primary@discoverymind.edu.hk. G/F, Shop A-D, Seaview Crescent, 8 Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, 2915 0666, primary_tc@discoverymind.edu.hk, www.discoverymind.edu.hk.
Discovery Montessori Academy, Discovery Bay Discovery Montessori Academy (DMA) is an international school for pre-primary and primary sections, offering a
Photo by Tim Draper, www.facebook.com/lifehouseimage
EDUCATION
DBIS celebrates the 2016 Olympics
bilingual (English and Putonghua) curriculum. The school’s curriculum combines the IB Primary Years Programme and the international Montessori educational experience. Block 1, DB North Plaza, DB, 2812 9668, www.discoverymontessori.info.
Hong Kong International Learning Academy, Discovery Bay Hong Kong International Learning Academy (HKILA) prides itself on being the only education centre in Hong Kong where children are taught alongside one another, regardless of background, level of achievement, language and/ or ability. Unit 08, G/F, Office Block 1, DB North Plaza, DB, 2416 3088, hkilacademy@gmail.com, www.studyhkila.com.
Mui Wo OWLS School, Mui Wo Mui Wo OWLS School takes children through to P6, following the English National Curriculum. It prides itself on its small classes and low student-teacher ratio. With an open-door policy, the school welcomes parents to visit and enrol their children at any time. 1/F, Unit A, Silver Centre Building, 10 Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, 2984 0006, owls@netvigator.com, www.muiwoowlsschool.edu.hk/p1p3.
Mui Wo School, Mui Wo www.pixabay.com
Mui Wo School is a friendly, local primary school with around 150 students. Subjects are taught in Cantonese, following the Hong Kong Curriculum. Putonghua and English classes are also offered. Tai Tei Tong, Silvermine Bay, Mui Wo, 2984 8461, mws@mws.edu.hk, www.mws.edu.hk. The Best of Lantau 89
EDUCATION
Students at Australian International School Hong Kong
S.K.H. Wei Lun Primary School, Discovery Bay
Discovery College, Discovery Bay
S.K.H. Wei Lun Primary School enrols approximately 500 students, who follow the local curriculum in Cantonese and Mandarin with a Christian foundation. Through diversified activities, children develop their potential and talents. Discovery Bay Road, DB, 2987 8608, skhweilun@skhweilun.edu.hk, www.skhweilun.edu.hk.
Catering to Years 1 to 13, Discovery College offers the IB Middle Years Programme and IB Diploma Programme for secondary students in Years 7 to 13. Part of the English Schools Foundation (ESF), Discovery College has no catchment area in its admission policy, meaning students from all over Hong Kong can apply there to study. Scholarships are available for exceptional students. 38 Siena Avenue, DB, 3969 1000, office@dc.edu.hk, www.discovery.edu.hk.
SECONDARY TOP PICKS Discovery Bay International School, Discovery Bay Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) secondary school’s distinction lies in the emphasis placed upon small class sizes, a personalised approach to student learning and the pursuit of creativity and innovation. DBIS provides a broad and balanced curriculum, based on the English National Curriculum and tailored to meet the needs of international students based in Hong Kong. Key facilities include a multipurpose sports pitch, an auditorium and a 25-metre swimming pool. Discovery Bay Road, DB, 2987 7331, dbis@dbis.edu.hk, www.dbis.edu.hk. 90 The Best of Lantau
YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, Tung Chung With approximately 930 students enrolled, 70% of whom hail from overseas, YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) provides a caring and dynamic learning environment. The school offers both the English National Curriculum (IGCSE and A Levels) and the Hong Kong Curriculum. A quality education, based on Christian beliefs and values and the partnership between teachers, parents and students, is offered in a joyful and stimulating setting. 2 Chung Yat Street, Tung Chung, 2988 8123, www.yhkcc.edu.hk.
EDUCATION
Kellett School
FEATURED Buddhist Fat Ho Memorial College, Tai O Buddhist Fat Ho Memorial College offers both full English Medium of Instruction (EMI) and Chinese Medium of Instruction (CMI) streams. The school follows the local New Senior Syllabus leading to the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education. 99 Tai O Road, Tai O, 2985 5365, info@eclass.bfhmc.edu.hk, www.bfhmc.edu.hk.
SCHOOLS SERVING LANTAU WITHOUT PREMISES ON LANTAU TOP PICKS Australian International School Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong Australian International School Hong Kong (AISHK) is co-educational, enrolling students from reception through to Year 12. AISHK follows the Australian National Curriculum, with adaptations to
Students at International College Hong Kong
accommodate Hong Kong’s international setting. As part of its dedication to offering broad yet tailored academic choices, senior students can undertake either the New South Wales Higher School Certificate or the IB Diploma. Operating on an Australian school year (late-January to mid-December), AISHK provides students with varied pathways to universities around the world. 3A Norfolk Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, 2304 6078, info@aishk.edu.hk, www.aishk.edu.hk.
Bradbury School, Happy Valley Bradbury School offers a caring environment which provides children, aged five to 11, with an all-round education of the very highest quality. It encourages children to become independent thinkers, curious about the world around them. Bradbury School uses the IB Primary Years Programme as a framework. The school offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities including hockey, yoga and soccer for students to enjoy. All lessons are conducted in English. 43C Stubbs Road, Happy Valley, 2574 8249, admissions@bradbury.edu.hk, www.bradbury.edu.hk.
French International School, Happy Valley Established in 1963/ 64, the French International School (FIS) was one of Hong Kong’s first international The Best of Lantau 91
EDUCATION
French International School
schools and is now one of its largest with over 2,700 students from reception to Year 13/ Terminale. The French stream follows the French National Education Curriculum, leading to the Brevet and French Baccalaureate, while the International stream follows the English National Curriculum, leading to IGCSEs and the IB Diploma. 165 Blue Pool Road, Happy Valley, 2577 6217, info@lfis.edu.hk,www.fis.edu.hk.
Harrow International School, Tuen Mun Harrow International School is the first international boarding and day school in Hong Kong. It opened in 2012 and now has a combined roll of over 1,175 students from Early Years to Year 13. Located in a magnificent, crescent-shaped building with custombuilt facilities near the Gold Coast, the school integrates elements from Harrow School in England into the diverse international community of Hong Kong. Boarding can begin from Year 6. 38 Tsing Ying Road, Tuen Mun, 2824 9099, info@harrowschool.hk, www.harrowschool.hk.
International College Hong Kong, New Territories At International College Hong Kong (ICHK), classes are small by design, allowing for individual attention 92 The Best of Lantau
Harrow International School
and guidance. Learning in Years 7 to 9 is based on emerging best practices, using insights and innovations from around the world. In Years 10 to 11 students take I/ GCSEs, then the IB Diploma in Years 12 to 13. The school celebrates high academic results, has a strong community ethos and provides a supportive environment for students of all nationalities. 60 Sha Tau Kok Road, Shek Chung Au, Sha Tau Kok, New Territories, 2655 9018, info@ichk.edu.hk, www.ichk.edu.hk.
Kellett School, Kowloon Bay & Pokfulam Kellett School, the British International School in Hong Kong, provides an outstanding education to students aged four to 18. With a reputation as one of Hong Kong’s leading independent international schools, students learn with growing independence in a challenging and stimulating environment. Kellett School reflects the best of British education and follows a modified English National Curriculum, including I/ GCSEs and A Levels. Pokfulam Preparatory, 2 Wah Lok Path, Pokfulam, 3120 0700. Kowloon Bay Preparatory and Senior, 7 Lam Hing Street, Kowloon Bay, 3120 0700, www.kellettschool.com.
EDUCATION
Students at Yew Chung International School
Yew Chung International School, Kowloon Tong Yew Chung International School (YCIS) enrols students aged six months to 18 years. The YCIS secondary programme aims to ensure that all students are given opportunities to become successful learners, confident individuals and responsible global citizens. The YCIS international curriculum is based on the framework of the English National Curriculum (Years 1 to 9), IGCSEs (Years 10 to 11) and the IB Diploma Programme (Years 12 to 13). Information sessions and private tours are offered for prospective parents. Early Childhood Education, 3 Somerset Road, Kowloon Tong. Primary section, 2 Kent Road, Kowloon Tong. Secondary Section, 3 To Fuk Road, Kowloon Tong. 2338 7106, admissions@ycef.com, www.ycis-hk.com.
FEATURED Canadian International School of Hong Kong, Aberdeen Considered one of the leading schools in South East Asia, the Canadian International School of Hong Kong enrols pupils from pre-reception to Year 12. The school offers the IB Diploma, Middle Years and Primary Years
programmes, as well as the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. 36 Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen, 2525 7088, schoolinfo@cdnis.edu.hk, www.cdnis.edu.hk.
Carmel School Association, Mid-Levels & Shau Kei Wan Carmel School Association provides a Jewish education, for pupils aged three to 18, across three campuses. Ganeynu Early Childhood Centre and Carmel Elementary & Pre-School are both in MidLevels. Elsa High School, in Shau Kei Wan, offers the IB Diploma and Middle Years programmes. 70 Robinson Road, Mid-Levels, ganeynu@carmel.edu. hk. 10 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels, brcadmin@carmel. edu.hk. 460 Shau Kei Wan Road,Shau Kei Wan, elsahighschool@carmel.edu.hk. www.carmel.edu.hk.
German Swiss International School, The Peak & Pokfulam German Swiss International School is one of the leading international schools in Hong Kong. The school offers education in two streams from kindergarten to secondary, following the German and British school systems. 11 Guildford Road, The Peak, The Best of Lantau 93
EDUCATION
YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College
2849 6216, info@gsis.edu.hk. 162 Pokfulam Road, Pokfulam, 2849 6217, info@gsis.edu.hk, www.gsis.edu.hk.
Island School, Mid-Levels Island School is the founding school of the English Schools Foundation (ESF), with a roll of approximately 1,200 students from Years 7 to 13. Students take I/ GCSEs and then move on to either the IB Diploma Programme or BTEC in Years 12 and 13. 20 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels, 2524 7135, school@online.island.edu.hk, www.island.edu.hk. 94 The Best of Lantau
King George V School, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon King George V School is ambitious in developing its fine traditions of high achievement and creativity in an engaging, enjoyable and sustainable learning environment. The 1,800 students, through Years 7 to 13, enjoy a diverse and exciting curriculum, studying for I/ GCSEs and then going on to either the IB Diploma Programme or BTEC. 2 Tin Kwong Road, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, 2711 3029, www.kgv.edu.hk.
Nord Anglia International School, Lam Tin Nord Anglia International School offers opportunities for children (Years 1 to 7) to become global citizens.
EDUCATION
The school’s modern approach to education includes access to a unique curriculum as part of the JuilliardNord Anglia Performing Arts Program. 11 On Tin Street, Lam Tin, 3958 1488, admissions@nais.hk, www.nordangliaeducation.com.
TUTORING AND LANGUAGES TOP PICKS Kumon Hong Kong, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung The Kumon Method originated in Japan over 50 years ago. Kumon Hong Kong was established in 1988 and now offers several programmes, aiming to develop students’ calculation and reading abilities. Teachers work together with parents to encourage kids to reach their full potential. Kumon offers support in mathematics, English, and traditional and simplified Chinese. Shop 104A, 1/F, DB North Plaza, DB, 2459 8808. Shop 12, Podium 1/F, Caribbean Bazaar, Caribbean Coast, 1 Kin Tung Road, Tung Chung, 2880 5988, www.kumon.com.cn.
The Story Studio, Discovery Bay, Tung Chung & Mui Wo The Story Studio runs workshops for kids who love writing stories, and mums and dads who’d like their kids to practice and improve their writing, while exploring their own, unique creativity. Each weekly, 90-minute workshop looks at both the creative and technical side of writing, using a wide range of genres and forms. Students range from seven to 12 years old and have English as their first or joint-first language. 6341 3989, thestorystudiohk@yahoo.com, www. thestorystudiohk.com, Facebook: TheStoryStudioHK.
FEATURED Eye Level, Discovery Bay Eye Level makes learning mathematics fun for children who bore easily in a traditional rote learning environment. Eye Level also offers English lessons designed to enhance students’ listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Unit 1, G/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 9366 0000, hcchu2006@gmail.com, www.myeyelevel.com.
Lao Shī Lantau (Mandarin Lessons), Mui Wo Lao Shī Lantau provides one-on-one and group lessons for English speakers who want to learn Mandarin and study Chinese culture. 5197 4647, kairan.devine@gmail.com, Facebook: Lao Shi Lantau – Mandarin Teacher.
Mandarin for Munchkins, Discovery Bay Kate Zhou offers Mandarin lessons to children aged 12 months and up and adults, using an interactive teaching approach. 2480 3909, admin@yifan-mandarin.com.hk, www.mandarinformunchkins.com.
Patricia Hamlin, Tung Chung Patricia Hamlin is a specialist teacher who helps children with difficulties in any one or a combination of these areas: dyslexia, dyscalculia, spelling, reading, writing, comprehension, phonics and maths. 6775 9735, patriciahamlin8@gmail.com.
Sakura Kids, Tung Chung Boasting native Japanese teachers, Sakura Kids offers Japanese language and culture lessons for children aged one-and-a-half to six years. Educational tools include flash cards, games, arts and crafts, storytelling, songs and dance. sakura.kids.hk@gmail.com.
Sound Waves, Tung Chung Sound Waves is a synthetic phonics programme that helps children improve their reading, writing and spelling skills. Classes are available from K1 to P6. Shop 10, Coastal Skyline, 12 Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, 9045 2914, soundwavestungchung@gmail.com, www.soundwaves.com.hk.
Wiseowl Homework Club, Discovery Bay
www.pixabay.com
Wiseowl Homework Club provides a supervised space in which children can study outside school. Wiseowl helps parents find the perfect tutor for their children’s needs. info@wiseowl.com.hk, www.wiseowl.com.hk. The Best of Lantau 95
No mouthguard?
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Wearing a mouthguard protects more than just your smile….
• May help reduce concussion • Protects against soft tissue injuries • Cushions teeth against impact • Helps prevent neck injuries • Protects against jaw joint injuries Custom fitted mouthguards fit easily and securely to provide maximum impact protection. They even enhance your performance by allowing you to speak and breathe easily during your game.See a dentist about getting your own custom fitted mouthguard at this very low rate.
Call: 2987 0855 (Discovery Bay) or 2185 6550 (Tung Chung)
Natural Medicine in Lantau Easy bus access from Sunny Bay or Tung Chung MTR IMI is a trusted clinic for natural and integrated medicine. Our team of practitioners at the Discovery Bay clinic offers natural healthcare solutions in Naturopathic Medicine, Homeopathy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Holistic Therapies, as well as Psychotherapy and Counseling. Our dispensary stocks the best selection of clinical-grade supplements, herbal remedies, and health products—now also available online: shop.imi.com.hk
IMI Discovery Bay specialises in: • Allergies, Digestion, Immunity
• Stress, Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia
• Neck, Back, Joint Pain & Sports Therapy • Children’s learning and Behaviour Issues
Let us be your guide to optimal health and total wellbeing, call 2537 1087 to make a booking today! Discover y Bay Location: G-02 Office Block Two, North Plaza. Web: www.imi.com.hk
Shop: shop.imi.com.hk
Tel: 2537 1087
: facebook.com/imihk
HEALTH
HEALTH Pregnancy and babies Medical services Medical emergency and hospitals Physiotherapy and osteopathy Dental health Nutrition and wellbeing www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 97
HEALTH
www.pixabay.com
HEALTH PREGNANCY AND BABIES TOP PICKS Embody, Discovery Bay Prenatal yoga can be an ideal way to stay in shape during pregnancy, and Embody offers two classes each week. This age-old practice focuses on toning important muscle groups, and using exercise to connect mums and babies. Yogic methods of deep, mindful breathing relax and loosen the body, helping mums prepare for labour and delivery. Discomforts such as lower back pain, nausea, insomnia and headaches can be relieved by stretching and breathing 98 The Best of Lantau
deeply. DB Plaza, 6624 8712, susan@embody.hk, www.embody.hk. Movement Improvement, Discovery Bay Movement Improvement (MI) hosts a number of instructors who are specially qualified and experienced in teaching ante- or post-natal classes. As such, the studio offers personal, one-on-one sessions or semi-private group sessions on demand. MI specialises in yoga and Pilates, and is owned by DB resident Claire Dickson. Unit 10, 1/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 5852, admin@movementimprovement.com.hk, www.movementimprovement.com.hk.
HEALTH
FEATURED Birth Story, throughout Lantau Jeanne Hauguel is a certified doula and childbirth educator. She offers birth and postnatal support, antenatal classes, breastfeeding support and placenta remedies. Jeanne believes that given the right support, everyone is able to have a positive birth experience. 6496 4318, jeanne@doulabirthstory.com, www.doulabirthstory.com. Cathee Jackson Doula and Breastfeeding Counsellor, Discovery Bay DB-based Cathee Jackson is a birthing doula and breastfeeding counsellor. She also teaches antenatal classes. 5993 3699, www.dbdoula.com. La Leche League, Discovery Bay La Leche League Hong Kong is the local branch of La Leche League International, a non-profit organisation which provides information, support and encouragement to mothers who wish to breastfeed. La Leche is recognised by WHO and UNICEF as the leading authority on breastfeeding. Siena Two, DB, 5695 3809, www.lll-hk.org.
MEDICAL SERVICES Dr Ka Cheong Kwok, Mui Wo Grandview Mansion, 11 Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, 2984 7530. Human Health Integrated Medical Centre, Tung Chung Shop 20, Tung Chung MTR Station, Tung Chung, 2109 2711. Shop 22, Tung Chung Crescent, 1 Hing Tung Street, Tung Chung, 2109 2288.
Mui Wo General Out-Patient Clinic, Mui Wo G/F and 1/F, Mui Wo Government Offices, 2 Ngan Kwong Wan Road, Mui Wo, 2984 2080. Quality HealthCare Medical Centre, Discovery Bay Consult: Dr Simon Siu and Dr Yau. Shop 108, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 5633. Quality HealthCare Medical Centre, Tung Chung Consult: Dr Victor Ho. Shop 18, G/F, Block 3, Tung Chung Crescent, 1 Hing Tung Street, Tung Chung, 2403 6623. Raffles Medical Group, Chek Lap Kok Landside Medical Centre, Level 6, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport, Chek Lap Kok, 2261 2626. Tai O Jockey Club General Out-Patient Clinic, Tai O
G/F, 103 Shek Tsai Po Street, Tai O, 2985 7236.
MEDICAL EMERGENCY AND HOSPITALS North Lantau Hospital, Tung Chung Open since 2013, North Lantau Hospital has a 24-hour accident and emergency service, and offers in-patient services, ambulatory care services, specialist out-patient services, allied health services and community care services. Pharmacy, diagnostic radiology and pathology services are also provided. 8 Chung Yan Road, Tung Chung, 3467 7000.
Island Health, Discovery Bay Consult: Dr Winnie Sui and Dr James Oliver. Shop 106A-109A, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 7575. Maternal and Child Health Centre, Tung Chung & Mui Wo The Maternal and Child Health Centre is a free service providing child health advice, antenatal classes, family planning, postnatal classes and cervical screening. G/F, Tung Chung Health Centre, 6 Fu Tung Street, Tung Chung, 3575 8370. 1/F, Mui Wo Clinic, 2 Ngan Kwong Wan Road, Mui Wo, 2984 2193, www.fhs.gov.hk/english.
North Lantau Hospital The Best of Lantau 99
HEALTH
Raffles Medical Group, Chek Lap Kok
Open 24 hours (doctor off-site on call from 12am to 7am). Landside Medical Centre, Level 6, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport, Chek Lap Kok, 2261 2626, 2261 0999 (emergency hotline).
PHYSIOTHERAPY AND OSTEOPATHY Integrated Medicine Institute, Discovery Bay Consult: Aaron Anderson, Jonathan Vallade and Jodi Waugh. Unit 02, G/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 2537 1087. Island Health, Discovery Bay Consult: Melanie Potgieter. Shop 106A-109A, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 7575. North Lantau Physiotherapy, Tung Chung Consult: Cardeux Nel, Celia Wong, Daisy Chak, Gary Fan and Kenny Yu. Shop P1, G/F, Seaview Crescent, Tung Chung, 2194 0020. Pause Studio, Mui Wo In addition to physiotherapy, Pause Studio provides health products plus yoga and Pilates classes. G/F, 8 Ngan Kwong Wan Road, Mui Wo, 9708 0187, pausemw@gmail.com, www.pausemuiwo.com. Skyline Physiotherapy, Tung Chung Consult: Cardeux Nel, Celia Wong, Daisy Chak, Gary Fan and Kenny Yu. Shop 9C, G/F, Coastal Skyline, Tung Chung, 2194 4038.
DENTAL HEALTH Bayside Dental, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Bayside Dental provides a variety of dental treatments in its modern and child-friendly clinics. It is fully equipped with the latest in dental technology, but the emphasis is still on old-fashioned values, like prevention and practising family dentistry with a friendly touch. Patients in pain are given priority and parking is available at the Tung Chung clinic. Shop 26, Caribbean Square, Caribbean Coast, Tung Chung, 2185 6550, info@baysidedentaltc.com, www.baysidedentaltc.com. Unit 01, G/F, Office Block 1, DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 0855, 6071 4530 (emergencies), www.baysidedentalhk.com. Quality Health Care Dental Centre, Tung Chung Shop 18, G/F, Block 3, Tung Chung Crescent, 1 Hing Tung Street, Tung Chung, 2403 6613, www.qhms.com.
ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Integrated Medicine Institute,Discovery Bay Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI) boasts the largest natural herbal dispensary in Lantau. It specialises in naturopathy, homeopathy, osteopathy, cranial-sacral therapy, chiropractic, family medicine and medical testing, traditional Chinese medicine, holistic therapies, life coaching, psychotherapy and counselling. IMI can also help with allergies, asthma, eczema, stress, anxiety, insomnia and sporting issues. An online dispensary with delivery to Lantau is now available. Arrange for a complimentary 20-minute session to optimise health and wellness. Unit 02, G/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 2537 1087, www.shop.imi.com.hk, www.imi.com.hk/dbclinic.html.
NUTRITION AND WELLBEING TOP PICKS
www.pixabay.com 100 The Best of Lantau
Body Awakening, Pui O Body Awakening makes high-quality health and wellness products. The company’s food-based supplements and cleansing and detox kits are designed in-house by a certified nutritional practitioner, and manufactured at external medical facilities around the world. As a company, Body Awakening believes in the
HEALTH
HOMEOPATHIC TRAVEL KIT By Mina Weight
I
have been practising homeopathy since the mid 90’s and whether I travel alone or with my husband and children, I always find room in my suitcase for the homeopathic remedies we most frequently use. Homeopathy is a complementary medical system that was developed in Germany more than 200 years ago. Suitable and safe-to-use for the whole family, all-natural homeopathic remedies are usually chosen based on the person’s constitution and how the symptoms were experienced. The basic premise is that ‘like cures like’ – a substance that causes the symptoms of a disease in healthy people can cure similar symptoms in sick people. Natural and free of side effects, homeopathic remedies can quickly ease mild discomforts, such as jet lag or sunburn, and they don’t conflict with conventional treatments for more serious emergencies, such as sunstroke. These easy-totake remedies are inexpensive and small enough to take anywhere. Homeopathy can be used to address numerous minor ailments from motion sickness, jet lag, vomiting and diarrhoea, to sunburn, cuts, insect
bites and sprains. It is also effective in treating chronic physical and emotional problems, including psoriasis, eczema, migraines, backache and asthma. In serious cases, immediate medical attention is recommended, of course, but you can still look to your homeopathic remedies to speed up healing time.
Don’t leave home without • Gelsemium for travel anxiety and fear • Tabacum for motion sickness • Cocculus for jet lag and insomnia • Arsenicum album for food poisoning • Nux Vomica for constipation • Urtica Urens for sunburn • Calendula cream for cuts and grazes • Arnica montana for sprains and strains • APIs mellifica for bee stings and insect bites Contact Mina Weight (RSHom UK) at the Integrated Medicine Institute on 2537 1087, or receptiondb@imi.com.hk.
body’s innate ability to heal itself when given the right tools, and the mind’s natural desire to be happy, healthy and full of energy. 8192 7636, info@bodyawakening.net, www.bodyawakening.net. Cambridge, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung The Cambridge Weight Plan focuses on weight loss and nutritional advice for both men and women looking to regain self-confidence and boost energy levels. The DB consultants are Carla Keating and Merridy Smits: 9757 8314/ 9522 3297. The Tung Chung consultant is Theresa Chi Silva: 9576 2147. www.cambridgeweightplan.hk.
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HEALTH
Nutrition Nation, Discovery Bay Ditch the diets and learn how to make smart food choices that will keep you fit for life. Co-founded by DB resident Tanja Guigon-Rech, Nutrition Nation provides education and support to those who are committed to healthy living. It can help with post-pregnancy weight loss, sports nutrition, weight gain, muscle gain, food intolerance, nutritional optimisation and general nutrition. Nutrition Nation offers monthly packages and can also create bespoke plans to cater to specific needs. 9419 5286, info@nutritionnationhk.com, www.nutritionnationhk.com.
FEATURED Alcoholics Anonymous, Discovery Bay If you think you may have a problem with alcohol, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) can help. AA holds three
weekly meetings in DB: Two of the meetings are for alcoholics and those who think they may have a drink problem, while the third welcomes alcoholics and their family and friends. Parkridge Village, DB, 9073 6922 (24-hour hotline), aahelp@aa-hk.org, www.aa-hk.org. CISO Psychosomatic Hypnotherapy Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui CISO Psychosomatic Hypnotherapy Centre (CISO) provides comprehensive counselling and hypnotherapy services. CISO offers high-quality, affordable care to help individuals manage stress and deal with mentalrelated physical health problems. Suite 2214, 22/F, Miramar Tower, 132 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, 3902 9621, 9701 6943, cisohk@gmail.com, www.cisohk.com. Herbal Health Care, Discovery Bay Herbal Health Care offers traditional Chinese medical treatment, and alternative medicine products and services, such as acupuncture and moxibustion. Owner Jackie Ng has a Masters in acupuncture and moxibustion, and a Bachelor’s degree in traditional Chinese medicine from the University of Hong Kong. Shop G36A-2, G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2834 7276. Ingredients of Wellness, Discovery Bay Ingredients of Wellness offers eight to 10-week mindfulness programmes teaching young people to direct attention, be calmer, concentrate more fully and to notice what is happening with their minds, bodies and emotions. 9048 5425, angie@ingredientsofwellness.com, www.ingredientsofwellness.com. Just Green, Discovery Bay Just Green is Hong Kong’s largest chain of organic convenience stores, with a selection of over 5,000 organic and allergy-free foods, beverages, supplements and home and beauty products. Open seven days a week from 11am to 7.30pm. Shop G33C, G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2448 1180, info@justgreen.com.hk, www.justgreen.com.hk. My Health Coach Lulu, Discovery Bay DB-based Lulu Bechgaard is a passionate holistic-health coach focused on improving general health, beauty and energy. Arrange an appointment via phone, face to face or Skype. 9154 1570, www.myhealthcoachlulu.com.
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BEAUTY
BEAUTY Hair salons Spas and nails www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 103
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BEAUTY HAIR SALONS TOP PICK Afflatus Hair Workshop, Discovery Bay Afflatus Hair Workshop is a well-established hair salon for men, women and children. This contemporary salon offers top-quality services, including cutting, colouring and straightening. The professional team of stylists is dedicated to providing the best quality service. As a special bonus, the mirrors in the kids’ area are fitted with televisions to entertain children while they are having their hair cut. Open daily from 10am to 7pm. Ask for Matt or Roy. Shop G13F, G/F, DB North Plaza, DB, 2987 0283, afflatushair@gmail.com.
to improve not just the look but the overall health of clients’ hair. Ask for Shirley. Shop 8B, Caribbean Square, Caribbean Coast, Tung Chung, 3907 0022. Robert Taylor, Discovery Bay British hair stylist and colourist Robert Taylor has over 20 years’ experience in hairdressing (for both ladies and gentlemen) from award-winning salons across the UK. Robert offers private appointments in DB, focusing on one client at a time to provide a personalised service. 5411 6911, Facebook: Robert Taylor
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Salon De Art, Tung Chung Salon De Art offers reasonably priced hair and nail services. The team is highly professional and friendly. Ask for Ricky or Amy. Shop T, G/F, Seaview Crescent Plaza, Tung Chung, 2618 0909.
Organic Hair, Tung Chung The stylists and treatment specialists at Organic Hair use a wide selection of nature-based organic products
Salon de Coiffure, Discovery Bay Salon de Coiffure is a well-established and professional hair salon, very popular among DB residents. The
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dedicated and talented team of stylists specialises in creating the perfect look for special events. Shop G20, G/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 4112.
SPA AND NAILS TOP PICKS M Spa Beauty Centre, Discovery Bay M Spa Beauty Centre, owned by 31-year DB resident Ivy Minshall, offers massages, manicures, pedicures, facials and much more. The centre opened in 2006, and focuses on building a trusting, relaxed relationship between clients and therapists. Clients can also opt to be treated at home. DB Plaza, DB, 2987 0614. Nailed It!, Discovery Bay Very popular among DB ladies, Nailed It! offers professional artificial nail services and nail art design in a relaxing and peaceful environment. The highly experienced and creative team is happy to cater to clients’ individual needs through customised manicures and pedicures. DB Plaza, DB, 2987 2266. Spa Botanica at Auberge, Discovery Bay Spa Botanica has won prestigious awards for the purity of its products and their effectiveness. Trained specialists offer more than 50 different treatments, from cleansing facials to stress-relieving massages, as well as relaxing manicures and pedicures. Enticing signature treatments include relieving travel stress, bridal treatments and plenty more. A broad range of massage styles is available, such as Swedish, East-West blend and aromatherapy. 88 Siena Avenue, DB, 2295 8288, www.aubergediscoverybay.com/wellness-experiences/ spa-botanica.
FEATURED Elly House of Beauty, Discovery Bay Elly House of Beauty offers a wide range of facial products and focuses on rejuvenation and beauty. Greenvale Village, DB, 5217 0102, Facebook: Elly House of Beauty. Freedas, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Freedas beauty salon is all about customer service and making you feel your best. It offers various treatments including threading, waxing, facials, soak-off nail gel, massage and hair care. DB Plaza, DB, 2987 4555. G/F, Shop 9A3, 12, Tung Chung Waterfront Road, Coastal Skyline, Tung Chung, 3483 8356, freedashk@gmail.com, www.freedashk.com. Maximum Care & Max Beauty, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Nancy Wong, co-owner of Maximum Care in DB and Max Beauty in Tung Chung, is dedicated to making people look and feel beautiful. Her friendly and professional team provides massages, facials, manicures, laser hair-removal treatments and more. Shop 140B, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 2060. Shops 10B-11A, Caribbean Square, Tung Chung, 2162 5752. Nest Care, Discovery Bay Nest Care is a specialised skincare and wellness centre run by a team of experienced therapists and practitioners. It offers customised facials and massages, waxing and nail services, and various therapeutic treatments. Unit 01, LG/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 2499 8826.
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OM Spa Regal Airport Hotel, Chek Lap Kok OM Spa is a Thai-style spa facility, with a mosaic steam room, Jacuzzis, gym and more. Clients rest body, mind and soul through ‘heavenly’ spa treatments in this tranquil retreat. 3/F, 9 Cheong Tat Road, Hong Kong International Airport, Chek Lap Kok, 2286 6266, www.regalhotel.com/regal-airport-hotel. Quan Spa, Tung Chung Unique to the Marriott brand, Quan Spa offers a variety of treatments which draw on the restorative properties of water to renew mind, body and spirit. 1 Sky City Road East, Hong Kong International Airport, Chek Lap Kok, 3969 2188, quanspahk@marriott.com, www.skycitymarriott.com/spa. Sense of Touch, Discovery Bay Known for its excellent customer service and environment, Sense of Touch offers everything from beauty and nail treatments to waxing. The highly trained therapists can provide clients with many different treatments within a single relaxed sitting. Shop 140A-1, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 9198, www.senseoftouch.com.hk.
Spa Ambiance, Mui Wo Spa Ambiance provides a comprehensive range of beauty treatments, including facials, massages, manicures, pedicures and waxing. 3 Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo, 3689 2527, 2984 2488, spa.ambiance.hk@gmail.com. SPA by MTM, Tung Chung SPA by MTM specially formulates treatments based on your physical and spiritual needs, with aroma oils prescribed to ensure maximum effect. Signature treatments include rejuvenation, revival and bridal. Shop 118, Citygate, Tung Chung, 2923 6060, www.spabymtm.com. Thai Pailin Massage, Mui Wo Thai Pailin Massage serves up pure relaxation in a tranquil and comfortable environment. It specialises in traditional full-body massage and a customised head-and-shoulders treatment. Shop 1, Seaview Building, Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo, 3114 0030.
JEWELLERY TOP PICK Zen Sisters, Discovery Bay At Zen Sisters, each piece of chic, contemporary jewellery is hand-strung. Hallmarked 925 sterling silver is combined with natural materials, such as rudraksha beads from Nepal or Balinese lava stones. Available online and at the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong – for direct sales and a private viewing, contact DB resident Christa den Boogert. 6344 4520, christa@ zensisters.com, www.zensisters.com.
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Beautifully Connected
christa@zensisters.com
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3 popular massages and their benefits 1 Thai Massage Also known as Thai yoga massage, in a traditional Thai massage, the therapist uses his or her hands, knees, legs, and feet to move you into a series of yoga-like stretches. Energising and rigorous, it’s like doing yoga without any work. Yoga asanas are used to open the joints and relieve the tension in the surrounding muscles, which allows healing energy to move more freely through the body and also stimulates the acupressure. Thai masseurs do not use oil; it’s a clothed form of massage, and it’s usually performed on a floor mat. What you get: • Helps in muscle compression and joint mobilisation • Reduces stress • Improves blood circulation • Increases energy and flexibility
2 Swedish Massage A very relaxing massage, Swedish massage uses five main techniques – stroking and gliding, kneading, rubbing, pounding and shaking. The purpose of a Swedish massage is to relax the entire body, and this is done by rubbing the muscles with long, gliding strokes in the direction of blood pumping to the heart. This
helps the body calm down and de-stress. It’s an oil-based massage that uses essential oils or lotions to suit your skin type, and it’s usually done on a massage table. What you get: • Increases the level of oxygen in the blood • Decreases muscle toxins • Improves blood circulation • Decreases stress levels and helps you relax
3 Deep Tissue Massage As the name says, this massage focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue and works out hard knots or adhesions that exist in those muscles. The technique of kneading through strokes done by elbows, knuckles and fists, creates a deep muscle compression and friction along the muscle grain. This helps loosen the muscle fibres and release both toxins and deeply held tension points. Deep tissue massage is performed on bare skin with either aroma or pain-relieving oil. What you get: • Relaxes muscles • Helps manage pain • Lowers blood pressure • Relieves stress
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SERVICES
SERVICES Finance, wills and insurance Photography Travel Helper agencies
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St James’s Place Wealth Management
SERVICES FINANCE, WILLS AND INSURANCE TOP PICKS Carey, Suen & Associates, operating in Lantau Long-term DB resident Annette M. Houlihan is the managing director of Carey, Suen Will Services, an advisory company assisting individuals and groups with all aspects of estate planning. Services include wills and cross-border planning, guardianship, living wills and Power of Attorney. Annette’s business partnership with Gladstone Morgan ensures that further services in relation to financial advice are provided. These include the need for life insurance, tax mitigation or reduction, succession planning, wealth preservation, and retirement provision. 2542 2285, annette@careysuen.com, www.careysuen.com. Harvey Law Group, Discovery Bay With over 20 years of experience and a multinational team, DB resident Jean-François Harvey is the founder of Harvey Law Group (HLG). Originating in Montreal, HLG offers full corporate and cross-border legal services to inbound 110 The Best of Lantau
and outbound investors. It specialises in immigration law, business law, employment law, private client services and cross-border transactions. Unit 11, LG/F, Office Block 1, DB North Plaza, DB, 2416 8618, dboffice@harveylawcorporation.com, www.harveylawcorporation.com. St. James’s Place Wealth Management, Discovery Bay St. James’s Place Wealth Management, a FTSE 100 company with £65.6 billion of client funds under management, is one of the largest wealth management companies in Asia. It specialises in the provision of face-toface financial advice to individuals and businesses. The strength of the business is underpinned by satisfied clients, their referrals and the dedication of the wider St. James’s Place Partners team. DB Plaza, DB, 2824 1083, stephen.putnam@sjpp.asia, www.sjpp.asia/tspp. Unit 20, 1/F, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza, DB, 2433 6980, esmy.lanuza@sjpp.asia, www.sjpp.asia/pwwm.
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Tanner De Witt, Discovery Bay Tanner De Witt is an established, leading independent law firm with a primary focus on business law. Featuring a Lantau connection through DB residents Tim Drew (partner) and Joanne Brown (solicitor), the firm provides legal advice and representation in corporate and commercial law, litigation and dispute resolution, family law including divorce, insolvency and restructuring, employment, immigration, wills and trusts, criminal law and hospitality. 2573 5000, timdrew@tannerdewitt.com, joannebrown@tannerdewitt.com, www.tannerdewitt.com.
FEATURED Lifestyle Brokers, Central & Discovery Bay Lifestyle Brokers, Lifestyle Insurance and Platinum Fiduciary, is part of Business Class Group (BCG) Asia with headquarters in Hong Kong. Its expertise ranges across UK and offshore financial services, international mortgages, estate agency and property sourcing, as well as insurance broking and trust creation. 501 Unicorn Trade Centre, 127-131 Des Voeux Road, Central, 3115 7616, info@lfsbrokers.com, www.lfsbrokers.com. Phoenix Wills, South Lantau Phoenix Wills, launched in 2009 and now run by Asa
Wilkins, aims to provide an easy solution to the willmaking process. Clients are consulted throughout, as Asa customises each will to suit the individual’s exact needs. 3100 0101, info@phoenix-wills.com, www.phoenix-wills.com. Professional Wills, Quarry Bay Professional Wills is a specialist will-writing company helping clients not only write their wills but overcome all the associated issues. These include estate and succession planning, domicile and inheritance, estate tax, and appointment of guardians for children of expat parents without family members in Hong Kong. 2561 9031, www.profwills.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY TOP PICKS Chris Coelho Photography, Tung Chung Tung Chung resident Chris Coelho has developed a reputation for producing treasured memories for families. She prides herself on developing a personal relationship with each of her clients and her passion for photographing expectant mums, The Best of Lantau 111
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newborn babies and families ensures the experience is a positive one for everyone involved. Chris brings her vibrant and expressive style to shoots and ensures the highest level of detail and quality. 9258 0971, chriscoelhophotography@gmail.com, www.chriscoelhophotography.com. Evoque Portraits, Discovery Bay Discovery Bay-based photographer Baljit Gidwani of Evoque Portraits captures all your family’s natural moments of love, affection and play. From the time of pregnancy to the moment of birth, as well as all those special moments you experience with your children, Baljit helps create lifelong memories. He also offers modelling shoots, home-interior photography and event coverage, as well as tailor-made photography workshops for mums, beginners and photography enthusiasts. 9659 6034, baljitgidwani@gmail.com, www.evoqueportraits.com. Tim Draper Photography, Discovery Bay Tim Draper is a professional photographer from London, 112 The Best of Lantau
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Photo by Tim Draper
Photo by Baljit Gidwani
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Photo by Ai Lau
UK. He graduated from Epsom College of Arts, UK, with a Bachelor of Arts. Having spent 15 years travelling the globe shooting for Rough Guides travel books, he now enjoys shooting portraiture, fashion and event photography, in both the UK and Hong Kong. Tim is available for small- and large-scale events and is happy to attend your home or a location of your choice for personal or family shoots. 9724 6969, www.timdraperphotography.com, Facebook: Tim Draper Photography.
FEATURED Ai Lau Photography, Discovery Bay
Ai Lau specialises in fine-art portraits of newborns, children and families. Her passion is to create picturesque images that beautifully reflect our natural experiences and relationships. To view her recent work, visit the website and Facebook page. 6755 5119, info@ailau.com, www.ailau.com, Facebook: Ai Lau Photography.
SERVICES
HAVE YOU MADE A WILL? By Annette M. Houlihan
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Will is a legal document that instructs your survivors to distribute your possessions, including assets, to the people you want. Imagine how valuable it is to your loved ones. If you do not have a Will, your belongings/ assets become intestate when you die which means the authorities decide how your wealth is distributed. They may also decide on the guardianship of your orphaned children. Very often, this process can take years to finalise. In your Will, you need to have Executor/s who are the people ‘in charge’ of your estate and of collecting your assets for distribution. A spouse is usually granted this task on the first level but in case you are with your spouse when something happens, you should consider contingents of these (siblings or best friends are often named.) We advise at least two levels of executors as these people could now be in charge of your estate for your children. Guardians are also vital if you have minor children or dependents. If mum and dad go away on a trip and don’t return, who will look after them? If the guardians you appoint live overseas, then you also need to appoint a temporary guardian in Hong Kong. You need to allow your permanent guardians time to fly in.
Beneficiaries are also normally our spouse on the first level, then our children as contingents. Although it is a horrible thought, you should also consider who else would inherit past your children. Nieces and nephews are often named. We recommend at least one level of contingent beneficiaries past your children. The Will itself should be clear and simple, making it easy for the Court of Probate to release your assets. If you have special requirements, a letter/ expression of wishes can accompany your Will for your Executors to follow. Although this document is not legally binding, you can use it to detail education or religious instructions, for example, for your children. What you have to be aware of, however, is that a Will takes time to be read in the Court of Probate. In Hong Kong, www.wikimedia.org it takes an average of six to eight weeks simply to open the Will. Distribution of wealth can take months, even years with a will in place – imagine where your loved ones would be without one.
Contact Annette M. Houlihan, Managing Director of financial advisory firm Carey, Suen & Associates, at annette@careysuen.com, or visit www.careysuen.com.
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TRAVEL TOP PICK Flight Centre, Discovery Bay The first Flight Centre store outside of Hong Kong Island opened in Discovery Bay last year. The new retail travel outlet’s team is a mix of expat and local travel specialists, who can deliver a tailor-made travel experience. Consultants have access to interactive maps and a scrolling feed of flight prices. There is also a kids’ corner. Shop G15, G/F, DB North Plaza, DB, 2829 2010, www.flightcentre.com.hk.
FEATURED Apple Travel, Discovery Bay Apple Travel has been providing expert travel services to the DB community since 1998. It specialises in fullypackaged Asian weekend getaways. The team offers everything from flight tickets and travel visas to special
package deals. Shop 125, 1/F, DB Plaza, DB, 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com.
HELPER AGENCIES TOP PICKS Ana’s Agency, Discovery Bay Ana’s Agency has been serving the DB community for eight years, processing visas for domestic helpers, helping with Hong Kong Identity Card applications, renewing contracts and more. 9611 9496, annabellebernal@yahoo.com. Maid for You, Discovery Bay Maid for You is an ethical helper agency, offering personalised services to expat clients. Its mission is to match the right helper with the right family. If clients are not satisfied with their helper within 30 days, Maid for You will find a replacement at no additional cost. 9167 2737, freedom@maidforyou.com.hk, www.maidforyou.com.hk.
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EXCURSIONS
EXCURSIONS Lantau attractions Lantau beaches
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Tai O Heritage Hotel
Auberge Discovery Bay
EXCURSIONS TOP PICKS Auberge, Discovery Bay Set right on the water, Auberge Discovery Bay is the perfect choice for a relaxing island escape. You can immerse yourself in facilities ranging from an outdoor pool and gym, to the tranquil Spa Botanica. There’s also an activity centre to keep the kids entertained all day. The hotel has a romantic seaside chapel and even a horse-drawn carriage to take you to the ceremony. 88 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay, 2295 8288, enquiry@aubergediscoverybay.com, www.aubergediscoverybay.com.
EpicLand, Discovery Bay Hong Kong’s largest indoor family entertainment centre boasts the biggest indoor slides in Asia and a variety of games and activities to captivate all ages. EpicLand offers 14,000 square feet of pure exhilarating fun, from an air-trek obstacle course and sky-high rock climbing wall to laser tag and mini-golf. Relying on state-of-the-art equipment and certified international safety standards, EpicLand provides a safe and clean environment for the whole family. DB North Plaza, DB, 2441 0098, events@epiclandhk.com, www.epiclandhk.com.
Hong Kong Dolphinwatch, Tsim Sha Tsui Since 1995, Hong Kong Dolphinwatch has been offering 116 The Best of Lantau
ecological tours to see Lantau’s remaining Chinese White Dolphins (Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins). This is your chance to see these beautiful pink dolphins in the wild. You receive a detailed talk on the environmental situation, free refreshments, HK$100,000 insurance and a go-again guarantee in case dolphins are not sighted. Hong Kong Dolphinwatch endeavours to raise awareness and generate revenue for research. 1528A Star House, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, 2984 1414, info@hkdolphinwatch.com, www.hkdolphinwatch.com.
The Big Buddha, Ngong Ping Tian Tan Buddha, known to most as The Big Buddha, was erected in 1993. At 34 metres, it’s the biggest bronze, seated Buddha in the world. On a clear day, you can climb the 268 steps to enjoy superb views across Lantau and beyond. www.discoverhongkong.com.
FEATURED Citygate Outlets, Tung Chung The first outlet mall in Hong Kong, Citygate Outlets is home to more than 90 international brands offering discounts of up to 70% on designer fashion, sports, beauty, childrenswear and home items. There is also a spa, hotel, supermarket, multi-screen cinema and many restaurants.
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Chinese www.wikimedia.org white dolphin
20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, 2109 2933, www.citygateoutlets.com.hk.
Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau At the happiest place on Earth, kids get to meet their Disney friends in person, fly through space, hop onboard a river cruise or ride in Winnie’s honey pot. Don’t miss the Festival of the Lion King and the chance to dance along with the gang in the daily parade. www.hongkongdisneyland.com.
Saffron Cruises, operating in Lantau Bringing you the largest fleet of junk boats in Hong Kong, Saffron Cruises’ options range from a red-sailed Chinese sailing junk to a brand-new 92-foot luxury yacht. Working with the best catering companies in Hong Kong, Saffron Cruises can provide anything from party food to a four-course meal, making its vessels ideal for birthday parties, dinner parties, corporate functions or just a fun day on the water with friends. 2857 1311, 6493 2650, info@saffron-cruises.com, www.saffron-cruises.com.
Silvermine Waterfall, Mui Wo Silvermine Waterfall is quite a spectacle, especially during the rainy season from May through October. It’s a gentle 3-kilometre hike from Mui Wo. www.discoverhongkong.com.
The Big Buddha
Tai O Heritage Hotel, Tai O Tai O Heritage Hotel, built in 1902 as a police station to guard the shore against bandits, is a luxury getaway with a difference. While the original beauty of the building has been preserved, the rooms are classically furnished for added historical authenticity. Nestled on a headland to the west of Tai O, the hotel boasts a glass-roofed, open-view restaurant, Tai O Lookout, which enjoys a stunning vista of the South China Sea. Shek Tsai Po Street, Tai O, 2985 8008, info@taioheritagehotel.com, www.taioheritagehotel.com.
Wisdom Path, Ngong Ping Located near the entrance to the Big Buddha, Wisdom Path offers up a pleasant 10-minute stroll. Columns along the way are decorated with inscriptions of Buddhist prayers. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and a view over Lantau Peak, Hong Kong’s second highest. www.discoverhongkong.com.
Fancy a dip? Before you head to the beach, it’s worth checking whether the water will be clean enough for you to have a swim. For weekly updates on the water quality off beaches throughout Hong Kong, visit www.beachwq.gov.hk/en/map.aspx.
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Best Lantau beaches By Martin Lerigo Cheung Sha Beach Popular with day trippers, Lower Cheung Sha Beach is a Hong Kong institution, with four restaurants and plenty of options for water sports. Taking the bus to Cheung Sha, ask the driver where to get off if you’re not familiar with South Lantau. Upper Cheung Sha Beach is just a short walk away over an afforested knoll. Wild in nature, it’s remote by Hong Kong standards and often windswept in winter.
Pui O Beach Take the bus to Pui O. From there, follow the beach road south and take a right at the stall selling buckets and spades. You’ll be greeted by a long bay with good, though dark, sand. Pui O is a beach of two halves, one end well cultivated with barbecue pits, the other carefree and wild, with trees and mangroves down to the waterline.
Shui Hau Beach This is a gem of a beach, wild, compact and bijoux, and you can have it to yourself out of season. Take the bus to Shui Hau and look out for the signposts at the western edge of the village pointing south towards the sea. The beach lies on part of the Lantau Trail and there are no facilities here save a roughly hewn area for camping.
Silvermine Bay Beach Take the bus or ferry to Mui Wo and stroll along the promenade, which was widened recently to provide enough room for both cyclists and pedestrians. From here, you’ll see the beach – a perfect crescent of sand nestling in the shadow of Ling Fa Shan peak and the spectacular Mui Wo basin.
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COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY Charity organisations Religious centres Annual charity events www.pixabay.com The Best of Lantau 119
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Tai O Community Cattle Group
COMMUNITY CHARITY ORGANISATIONS TOP PICKS DB Mothers & Friends, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Through DB Mothers and Friends, DB resident Nikki Boot collects useful second-hand goods at a small cost from those who no longer want them and redistributes them to people in need. She provides a clearance service for local charities, schools and churches. Door-to-door collection appointments (on Saturdays in DB and Tung Chung) are arranged on a first-come-first-served basis. Since 2013, DB Mothers & Friends has collected and redistributed over 1,000 tonnes of unwanted goods. nikkiboot@gmail.com, www.2ndhanditem.wordpress.com, Facebook: DB Mothers & Friends. 120 The Best of Lantau
Enrich, Discovery Bay DB resident Myriam Bartu started up Enrich in 2007 to promote the economic empowerment of migrant domestic workers. Offering workshops to both helpers and employers, over 6,000 participants have since been involved in learning about budgeting, saving, and reducing or paying off debt. Employers have the option to sponsor their helper’s education at Enrich. Donations of time or money are welcome. 2386 5811, info@enrichhk.org, www.enrichhk.org. Living Islands Movement, South Lantau Living Islands Movement (LIM) is a South Lantaubased community group that promotes ‘A Liveable Lantau for All’ by campaigning, with the support of the community, for outcomes in management processes that enhance the quality of life on Lantau.
COMMUNITY
The last straw LIM engages the government and other stakeholders regarding key issues of local concern (e.g. waste management, transport, parking, illegal dumping and landfill etc.) and makes high-quality submissions. Through media and events, LIM seeks to bring greater awareness and visibility to issues affecting Lantau and its surroundings. info@livingislands.org.hk, www.livingislands.org.hk. Plastic Free Seas, Lantau Plastic Free Seas (PFS), led by DB residents Tracey Read and Dana Winograd, is dedicated to reducing the amount of plastic pollution in Hong Kong. Through education in schools and organising regular beach clean-ups and events, PFS aims to deliver important information as efficiently as possible to spread awareness and understanding. PFS also runs school programmes on the Sea Classroom, an ex-fishing trawler that is used to give students a first-hand look at marine pollution and microscopic organisms. tracey@plasticfreeseas.org, www.plasticfreeseas.org. Save Lantau Alliance, Lantau Initially formed to monitor the government’s plans to develop Lantau, Save Lantau Alliance (SLA) focuses on encouraging public discussion on the matter through forums and questionnaires. SLA aims to help save the island’s beautiful natural environment that is now under threat. It also shares information on conservation, history and planning at local schools and through guided tours and presentations at public events. savelantau@gmail.com, www.savelantau.org. Tai O Community Cattle Group, Tai O Tai O Community Cattle Group (TOCCG) was formed to improve the safety of Lantau’s cattle, helping residents and cows to live in harmony. Led by Tai O resident Kathy Daxon, it provides fluorescent road safety collars for cows on South Lantau. TOCCG regularly monitors herd statistics and roaming patterns, and reports injuries/ sickness. Educating visitors to Lantau is a top priority. 5181 4406, taioccg@gmail.com, Facebook: Where Is Melvin.
By Claire Severn We all know that plastic poses a serious threat to our planet, but do we really stop to think about how much we dispose of on a day-to-day basis and where it ends up? Head to any beach in Hong Kong and you will see the impact we’re having, with single-use plastic items being washed up each day. “The time for talk is long past, we need action and we need it now!” says DB resident Gary Stokes, Asia director for the direct action organisation Sea Shepherd Global and the driving force behind Last-Straw.org. Launched on June 8, World Oceans Day, this new initiative aims to address the issue of single-use plastic head on and provide practical, eco-friendly alternatives.
last-straw.org
The first item in the spotlight is the humble drinking straw. While many would like to see an end to straws altogether, the Last Straw movement recognises that isn’t always practical and has therefore come up with a durable, paper version, which can last up to one hour in a drink yet is completely biodegradable. Over the next six months the aim is to introduce the funky new straws to restaurants, bars, hotels, private clubs, coffee shops and schools across Hong Kong. In keeping with the eco theme, straws will all be green to start with, however custom colours and designs will be available in the future. Watch this video www.youtube.com/ watch?v=HCU6V6f4CZM to find out more about the shocking reality of plastic straw pollution in Hong Kong. For more information, visit www.last-straw.org. The Best of Lantau 121
COMMUNITY
Barts Bash
Photo by Jason Pagliari
FEATURED DB Green, Discovery Bay DB Green is an eco-society which supports and promotes public awareness and environmental education by concentrating on Discovery Bay’s environmental and local culture. Headed up by DB resident Kate Wade, DB Green holds regular beach clean-ups. 9810 9070, 2987 5071, kateandnick@netvigator.com, dbgreen.org.
Volunteer to help clean a beach Government employees work tirelessly to keep Lantau’s beaches clean but if you want to do your bit to help there are plenty of local volunteer operations to contact. • DB Green, dbgreen.org • Eco Marine Hong Kong, Facebook: Eco Marine • Plastic Free Seas, www.plasticfreeseas.org • Shoni Grant, shonigrant@dsasia.net
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Photo courtesy of liina klauss, 10,000 lost soles
Sea Shepherd Global, Hong Kong Established in 1977, Sea Shepherd is an international nonprofit, marine wildlife conservation organisation, aiming to end the destruction of wildlife in the world’s oceans. DB resident Gary Stokes is Sea Shepherd Global’s director for South East Asia. info@seashepherdglobal.org, www.seashepherdglobal.org.
RELIGIOUS CENTRES FEATURED Bridge Church,Tung Chung Bridge Church is a family of Christian believers meeting every Sunday at 10am. YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, 2 Chung Yat Street, Tung Chung, www.thebridgechurch.hk. Calvary Church, Discovery Bay & Tung Chung Calvary Church is an English-speaking international church that holds services on Sundays at 10.30am. DB Community Hall, DB North Plaza, DB. Novotel Citygate, TungChung, info@calvaryhk.com, www.calvaryhk.com.
COMMUNITY
Chabad of Lantau, Discovery Bay Serving the Jewish community, Chabad of Lantau offers a variety of educational and spiritual opportunities for believers of all ages. Torah classes, lectures, Shabbat and holiday dinners and an array of social activities are on offer. 6622 3770, rabbi@jewishlantau.com, www.chabadlantau.com. Discovery Bay Alliance Church, Discovery Bay The Discovery Bay Alliance Church invites anyone wanting to know more about Jesus Christ to its mass and services. Sunday worship takes place at 8.20am, 10am, and 11.40am, with a special teens’ Sunday school at 10am. 2987 8780, church@dbac.org, www.dbac.org.hk. Discovery Bay Church, Discovery Bay Following the Anglican/ Episcopal tradition, Discovery Bay Church is an English-speaking daughter church of St John’s Cathedral in Central. Mass is led by Reverend Mark Rogers at S.K.H. Wei Lun School, DB every Sunday at 10am. 2987 4210, www.discoverybaychurch.org.hk.
Discovery Bay International Community Church, Discovery Bay Discovery Bay International Community Church (DBICC) holds services for adults every Sunday at 10am. Separate age-appropriate services are held for children and teens. Discovery College, 38 Siena Avenue, DB, 2987 7061, office@dbicc.org, www.dbicc.org.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Discovery Bay The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (members are commonly known as Mormons) holds a worship service every Sunday at 1pm. Discovery College, 4/F, 38 Siena Avenue, DB, 6099 8020. Trinity Chapel, Discovery Bay Trinity Chapel welcomes anyone keen to learn more about the Catholic faith. Sunday mass takes place at Discovery Bay International School at 8am and 10.30am (in English), and at 9.15am (in Chinese). 9234 3548, info@dbtrinitychapel.org, www.dbtrinitychapel.org.
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COMMUNITY
Annual charity events Bart’s Bash, Lantau waters An international sail race, locally sponsored by Lantau Boat Club and Discovery Bay Yacht Club, Bart’s Bash takes place on September 17, 2016. Funds raised go to help promote and develop disabled sailing globally. admin@lantauboatclub.com, www.lantauboatclub.com.
Harvey Law Kart Race
Box of Hope, Across Lantau Through Box of Hope, local kids get to send useful and educational gifts to underprivileged children in Hong Kong and Asia at Christmas. There are collection points at schools in DB, Mui Wo and South Lantau. nicole@boxofhope.org, www.boxofhope.org. DB 10km Run for Charity, Discovery Bay Taking place on November 12, 2016, the annual DB 10km Run for Charity now attracts over 500 (road) runners. Proceeds go to a different charity every year. info@dbrunforcharity.org, www.dbrunforcharity.org.
Team FEAR
DBRC Tennis Charity Cup, Discovery Bay Keen local tennis players, some 24 teams, battle it out on September 24, 2016 at the Discovery Bay Recreation Centre. Funds raised go to Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association and Watchdog Early Education Centre. dbrc-enquiries@dbrc.hk, www.dbrc.hk. DMK Operation Santa Claus Walk, Discovery Bay Get decked out in your festive gear and join the kids from Discovery Mind Kindergarten (DMK) as they walk for Operation Santa Claus on November 19, 2016. www.dmk.edu.hk, osc.scmp.com. Harvey Law Kart Race, Discovery Bay The third Harvey Law Kart Race takes place on November 6, 2016. Open to kids aged seven to adults, proceeds go to a different charity every year. kartrace@harveylawcorporation.com, www.harveylawcorporation.com.
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COMMUNITY
Annual charity events Imagine Peace, Pui O Celebrating the International Day of Peace with music, dance, yoga workshops and more, Imagine Peace is being held over the weekend of November 18 - 20, 2016. Facebook: Imagine Peace. Lantau International Beer Dash, Tong Fuk Participants in this hugely popular, 5-kilometre fun run dress up and drink a different international beer at every checkpoint. Funds raised each March go to Lantau-based animal-welfare charities. melaniepotgieter@hotmail.com.
DB 10km Run for Charity
Moon Bear Concert, Discovery Bay All proceeds from the Moon Bear Concert, being held on March 18, 2017 at Discovery Bay International School, go to Animals Asia and its quest to end bear bile farming. ccyc123123@gmail.com. DMK Operation Santa Claus Walk
Picnic in the Park
www.evoqueportraits.com
www.evoqueportraits.com
The Big Picnic, Discovery Bay The Big Picnic, previously Picnic in the Park, is being held at Tai Pak Wan and DB Plaza on November 5, 2016. This live music and dance festival, now in its tenth year, attracts crowds of over 10,000. Proceeds go to the Hong Kong Student Aid Society, Plastic Free Seas and KELY Support Group. picnicintheparkhk.com, Facebook: The BIG Picnic.
Picnic in the Park
www.evoqueportraits.com
Team FEAR, Discovery Bay Over 750 students, aged eight to 18, gather on November 20, 2016, to run, cycle, swim and climb across DB. Funds raised go to Youth Outreach Hong Kong. Registration starts in early September. www.team-fear.com.
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MARKET PLACE
Playgroup for children aged 6 months to 4 years, run by a Montessori-trained teacher. A supportive, stimulating and loving environment for little ones to learn from. Classes are held in Cherish Court, Discovery Bay. 9054 0565 playtimekidsdb@yahoo.com www.playtimekidsdb.com
Alcoholics Anonymous
If you want to drink, that’s your business. Alcoholics If you want to stop, Anonymous we can help. No dues or fees. 24hr hotline:9073 6922 Lantau hotline: 5668 2667
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MARKET PLACE
AKASH MOVING Local packing & moving service Best Move - Best Rate
Akash offers a packing / unpacking service, provides boxes & Alcoholics packing materials & Anonymous makes small deliveries
Call 2421 8088 or visit
www.akash.hk 6302 6327 info@funfit.hk www.funfit.hk
An active learning programme for kids aged 6 months to 3 years, which helps develop balance, coordination, fine and gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination and much more!
A caring and nurturing Montessori programme, held in DB Plaza, where children grow and learn through self-discipline and self-discovery.
Discovery Bay 6108 9131
For children aged 2.5-5 years
woodentotsdb@gmail.com
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MARKET PLACE
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MARKET PLACE
The Expert
The Expert
Shoppers
Shoppers
DB’s own lifestyle boutique providing DB's own lifestyle boutique sourcing and customproviding sourcing and custom order service. order services. DB Plaza Tel: 3704 7402 www.expert-shoppers.com
DB Plaza Tel: 3704 7402 www.expert-shoppers.com
View the business directory
@ www.arounddb.com The Best of Lantau 131
LAST WORD
PRESERVING LANTAU Local activists and concerned residents speak out
Photos by www.evoqueportraits.com and Terry Chow, and courtesy of Martin Lerigo, Jason Pagliari, Louise Preston, Jenny Quinton and Tracey Read
“A coordinated, alternative plan, that can also address the government’s intentions, is really needed to protect the island. We need the involvement of green groups, experts and the community – people who have a long-term vision beyond the realms of concrete and money.” Jenny Quinton, Ark Eden
JennyQuinton
“Plastic marine and land pollution needs to be responded to as a public health issue. This could ensure a change of strategy was implemented with more source reduction policies and better waste management practices, rather than end-of-the line clean-up solutions.” Tracey Read, Plastic Free Seas
Martin Lerigo
“Decisions made in recent months have wrenched apart any notion that Lantau’s beauty will be left untouched. The likelihood of unsympathetic exploitation in the name of large-scale tourism has come starkly into view.” Martin Lerigo, Living Islands Movement
Tracey Read
“Loss of habitat is threatening the Lantau buffaloes’ survival. The logical solution would be for the government to buy back the land and treat the wetlands as a special conservation area. If the government had the will, they could also look at land swaps or a managed land leasing scheme which have been tried elsewhere.” Jean Leung, Shap Long resident
Jean Leung
“Apart from the fact that the natural habitat of the Chinese white dolphin has been desecrated and the North Lantau country park has been blighted, the Hong Kong-Zuhai-Macau bridge will lead to increased air pollution in Tung Chung, already one of the worst spots for air pollution in Hong Kong. The bridge is a sinister development for boosting the rationale for the east Lantau metropolis and its road links to Hong Kong island.” Louise Preston, Living Islands Movement Louise Preston
“All developers are the same and want to build as much as possible but you must have a balance. My aim is to keep Discovery Bay low density and low population with a lot of space, and to keep it virtually car free.” Amy Yung, DB representative on the Islands District Council
Amy Yung
“When I discovered that my favourite hiking trail in Chi Ma Wan had been allocated for a construction works ‘upgrade’, I contacted the lands department. My experience dealing with the government has been positive and demonstrates that as residents we have a voice and should not hesitate to raise our concerns about preserving Lantau as we know it and like it.” Jason Pagliari, Ham Tin resident
Jason Pagliari
“The number of building projects and growing number of people visiting Lantau is putting a big strain on the roads here – and the cyclists are the ones feeling the heat.” Shane Early, Lantau Base Camp
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Shane Early