Around DB December Issue 2018

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

DECEMBER 2018

20+ stocking fillers and under-the-tree presents Get altruistic through 3 apps for good

Ski Niseko’s winter wonderland Why experience gifting is the way to go

E L U Y L O CO How DBers do Christmas

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

FREE

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and

would like to wish everyone a very

Happy Christmas

and a

healthy and prosperous New Year

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Confidence Building Best After-School Activity

Winner 2014 to 2017

Performance Opportunities Finalist

Favorite Kid’s Enrichment Programme 2018

Best

After-School Activities for Tots to Teens

CO NTENTS December 2018

PROFILE Kimberley Kleczka

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IN FOCUS

TALKING POINTS

DB’s multi-cultural Xmas celebration

Why experience gifting is the way to go

ESCAPES Best in Niseko

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SPOTLIGHT Alysha Gauthier

32

GIVEAWAYS Win big prizes

44

WISH LIST December must-haves

80

OUT THERE Telling it like it is

40

FAMILY MATTERS

48

REGULARS

Altruistic apps made in DB

52 For the latest Around DB updates, find us on:

AGENDA 10

DB EVENTS

63

ISLAND LIFE

70

HK HAPPENINGS

75

CLASSIFIEDS

76

PROPERTY

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LOCAL NUMBERS

ON THE COVER The Spires family enjoying the silly season

To read the cover story, turn to page 48

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

DECEMBER 2018

20+ stocking fillers and under-the-tree presents Get altruistic through 3 apps for good

59

www.arounddb.com Publishers in Lantau since 2002

Ski Niseko’s winter wonderland Why experience gifting is the way to go

CO OL YULE How DBers do Christmas

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

FREE

Photo by Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

We also publish…

FREE

2018 / 2019

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

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FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF

FOOD & DRINK • LIVING • PETS • SPORTS • PASTIMES • EDUCATION • HEALTH • BEAUTY • SERVICES • TRAVEL & EXCURSIONS • COMMUNITY

in Discovery Bay

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PUBLISHER Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk MANAGING EDITOR Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS & ONLINE EDITOR Claire Severn claire@baymedia.com.hk DIGITAL & EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katrina Mercado katrina@baymedia.com.hk SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrew Spires andrew@baymedia.com.hk ASSISTANT GRAPHIC DESIGNER Duey Tam duey@baymedia.com.hk SALES ACCOUNT MANAGERS Andrew Boschetti andrewb@baymedia.com.hk Monika Carruthers monika@baymedia.com.hk Nadika Van der Valk nadika@baymedia.com.hk OFFICE MANAGER Maxine Parry maxine@baymedia.com.hk PHOTOGRAPHER Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com CONTRIBUTORS Alexander Grasic (intern) Elizabeth Kerr Suveera Sharma Peter Sherwood Dorothy Veitch Samantha Wong PRINTING Champion Design & Production Company Ltd. Flat D, 18/F, Sing Teck Factory Building, 44 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Hong Kong.

DISCLAIMER The views expressed in AroundDB are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person.

The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.

© BAY MEDIA GROUP LTD

www.evoqueportraits.com and www.colsimphotography.com

THE BIG PICNIC

Residents and visitors flocked to Tai Pak Wan and DB Plaza on November 3 to enjoy The BIG Picnic performances across four stages, along with a market, kids’ zone and food stalls.

DB EVENTS

s t n e v e y t i n u rece nt c om m

THE HOTTEST

IN DISCOVERY BAY

www.arounddb.com December 2018

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DB EVENTS

OPERATION SANTA CLAUS WALK

Attendees of the 13th annual Discovery Mind Operation Santa Claus Sponsored Walk dressed in their festive best as they completed a sponsored walk from Tai Pak Wan to Central Park on November 17.

www.discoverymind.edu.hk

BOX OF HOPE

Ahead of Box of Hope collection week November 5 to 9, school kids all over DB filled shoeboxes with goodies and essentials to donate to children in need.

Photos by highjumpphotography.com & Elina Makilammi

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

DB EVENTS

ARTS IN THE PARK

Island Dance students performed at the annual Arts in the Park Mardi Gras on November 4 at Victoria Park. The dancers also performed at The BIG Picnic on December 3.

www.islanddance.com.hk

HALLOWEEN

Headland Drive was filled with superheroes, witches and zombies on October 31, the spookiest night of the year.

www.evoqueportraits.com

HEMINGWAY'S ANNIVERSARY PARTY Hemingway’s celebrated its 12th anniversary on November 14, thanking the DB community for the incredible support and all the experiences shared.

www.colsimphotography.com

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

DB EVENTS

DISNEYLAND PARADE

DMR School of Ballet dancers performed at the Disney Youth Performing Arts Parade at Disneyland on November 10. The dancers also performed at The BIG Picnic on December 3.

www.dmr-hk.com

KIDS IN THE PARK

Discovery Bay International Community Church and Discovery Bay Alliance Church held their annual fun day on October 27 with families enjoying numerous free games and activities.

www.evoqueportraits.com

DBIS PTSA QUIZ NIGHT

Discovery Bay International School Parent Teacher Student Association hosted its annual quiz night at the Globe Theatre on November 8. www.colsimphotography.com

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Let it glow!

Celebrating Christmas 2018 in Discovery Bay

T

Photos courtesy of Hong Kong Resort

here’s a festive feeling in the air in Discovery Bay this month, with eye-catching decorations in both plazas that have transformed the town into a glittering Christmas showcase.

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Sure to enchant young and old alike, this year’s displays offer a modern twist on a traditional Christmas theme, with a brigade of friendly geometric snowmen welcoming commuters off the ferry and guiding them to a sparkling contemporary Christmas tree which lights up DB Plaza’s waterfront promenade,

its twinkling snowflakes casting delicate, ever-changing patterns of light to evoke the true magic of the season.

But the decorations aren’t just a feast for the eyes. Head from the ferry pier to DB Plaza and you can enjoy the heart-warming smell of Christmas too, with a stunning, 15foot pine tree adorned from top to bottom with glistening lights and colourful baubles.

The vibrant theme continues up at DB North Plaza, where more bright

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

snowmen are ready to welcome you to the Fantasia Christmas Cottage – a striking, multi-coloured, geometric structure with an impressive swirling Christmas tree and phenomenal lighting displays – and the Gracieux Christmas Cadre – the perfect place to snap a Christmas ‘elfie.’

Also adding to the enchanting vibe at DB North is the reimagined Love Lock Promenade, which has been transformed into a glistening spectacle with hundreds of fairy lights shimmering over the ocean.

a choice of special gifts when presenting a same-day receipt from designated D’Deck or DB North Plaza restaurants.*

* Pro mo tio n de tai ls *Offer 1 - Receive a limited Bay Discovery edition n upo e driv h flas USB inal orig an of n tatio sen pre same-day receipt when spending HK$400 or over in a single transaction. *Offer 2 - Receive a limited edition Discovery Bay wooden phone/ card holder upon presentation of an original same-day receipt or receipts when spending HK$800 or over (maximum two receipts). can gifts Promotional ting visi be collected by vice Ser the Dine ’N Ride Counter in DB Plaza, Monday to Friday between 7.15pm and 11.45pm, and Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays between 12.45pm and 11.45pm, starting December 1. Gifts are offered on a first-comewhile basis first-served . last ks stoc

Perhaps the biggest highlight this year, however, is the news that from December 23 to 26 DB Plaza will come to life with dazzling, speciallychoreographed performances from Australian acrobatic troupe Bizurcus, in town for DB’s first-ever Christmas Acrobatic Parade Party.

Prepare to be amazed as stilt walkers, magicians and dancers lead eight interactive shows across the four days, bringing an energetic carnival vibe to the town’s celebrations. Performances start at 6pm and 8pm each evening and

will see the talented team enthral onlookers as they make their their way from DB Ferry Pier to DB Plaza via the waterfront promenade.

What’s more, the performers will be available each afternoon for two dedicated photo-taking sessions – a wonderful way to capture special memories of the festivities.

And if you’re eating out while enjoying the show, you’ll be happy to hear that a special winter redemption programme is running from December 1, offering diners

Of course, if you’re looking for the ultimate indulgence this December, why not book a staycation at Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong, where a special festive package is on offer? From just HK$2,588, guests can enjoy a one-night stay for two in a Mountain View Room, with buffet breakfast and a festive dinner buffet. For those wanting to bring along a little one, a child can be added to the package for just HK$350, which includes access to a series of fun-filled Christmas activities. And if you long for a view, an upgrade to an Ocean Front Room costs a mere HK$400.

As if all that wasn’t enough, the other great news is that this year, DB’s Christmas decorations have been designed so that they can be reused for both Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year, with just a few tweaks here and there, meaning they’re more eco-friendly than ever before.

So, head on down to DB Plaza and DB North Plaza this December to check out the Christmas decorations and join in the festive fun. Enjoy the holidays, and have a very merry Christmas.

Chr ist ma s Ac rob at ic Par ad e Par ty sch ed ule Dates: December 23 to 26

Photo-taking sessions: 3pm 3.30pm and 5pm - 5.30pm

Show times: 6pm - 6.30pm and 8pm - 8.30pm (followed by 15 minutes for photo taking)

www.arounddb.com December 2018

19

DB EVENTS

YOUR GUIDE

L A I T N E S S E E TO TH

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

December 1

December 1

www.evoqueportraits.com

DB 10KM RUN FOR CHARITY Central Park, Siena One The 14th annual DB 10km Run for Charity supports local charity Impact HK in helping the homeless. Good luck to all participants!

Crystal Lee is organising the race this year but it behooves us to pay tribute to former organisers Kobi Janssen and Erin Bowland. Over the years, Kobi and Erin have organised the DB 10km a whopping 13 times, collecting over HK$1.6 million for local charities. Visit www.dbrunforcharity.com to know more.

December 1-12

ABOUT FACE

Naked Hub Gallery, Sheung Wan Thirteen-year DB resident Linda Barnes presents her latest exhibition About www.lindabarnesart.com Face. The New Zealand artist says, “The human face is a subject that is endlessly fascinating and challenging to an expressive figurative artist.� Linda aims to express energy, emotion and humanity in her powerful canvases. To view the exhibition, head to the Naked Hub or call Linda on 9046 8051.

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKETacross from Haven Court, 2pm to 4.45pm. For more information, call 2238 3617.

December 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29

TO ADOPT A PET through Hong Kong Paws Foundation (PAWS), call Kat Cheung on 9485 5188 or head to an Adoption Day in DB Plaza.

KIMBERLEY KLECZKA AT BOOKAZINE December 2 Bookazine, DB

DB resident Kimberley Kleczka is reading aloud from her Koolamundo book series, assisted by her main protagonist Klara the Cow. The event runs from 11am to 12.30pm. To know more about Kimberley turn to page 35; to contact Bookazine, email enquiries@bookazine.com.hk.

bookazine.com.hk

December 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

December 4, 7, 10, 12, 18 & 21

HAVE YOUR PRELOVED ITEMS COLLECTED at

ENJOY FREE YOGA FOR HELPERS classes at Yoga Bay, DB

North Plaza from 7am to 8am. To register, call 6704 9851/ 9150 7019 or visit yogabay.hk.

your home from 2pm to 4pm, or bring them to the Environmental Toy House collection bins at Brilliance Court, Costa Court and Midvale bus stop. WhatsApp Nikki Boot at 9677 6676.

December 6

DB ENTREPRENEURS NETWORKING BREAKFAST at Zak’s, DB, kicks off at 8am.

For registration, head to the DB Entrepreneurs Networking Breakfast Facebook page or visit www.t8events.com.

BODYTALK ACCESS WORKSHOP Yoga Bay, DB North Plaza December 8

YHKCC INTERNATIONAL FUN FAIR

YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, Tung Chung December 8

yogabay.hk www.yhkcc.edu.hk

Enjoy ethnic food, a bazaar, games, bouncy castles and an art exhibition at the annual YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) International Fun Fair, 11am to 9pm. Fair admission is free. You can catch talent shows at 12pm and 7pm, at HK$40 and HK$60 respectively, featuring the songs and dances of different countries worldwide. To know more, visit www.yhkcc.edu.hk or email amanda.shek@yhkcc.edu.hk.

Advanced certified BodyTalk practitioner and instructor Angie Tourani is hosting a workshop aimed at providing the community with a simple set of energy-based techniques to make health maintenance and the management of daily health challenges accessible. The workshop, running from 1pm to 6pm, includes a BodyTalk Access manual and certification. For registration, at HK$1,500, call 6704 9851/ 9150 7019 or visit yogabay.hk.

December 9

December 9

SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET

in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm.

To know more, visit www.handmadehongkong.com.

JOIN DB GREEN AND PLASTIC FREE SEAS for a

beach clean-up at Sam Pak Wan from 2pm to 4pm. To find out more, visit plasticfreeseas.org.

www.arounddb.com December 2018

21

DB EVENTS

XMas Events

LIGHT UP A LIFE CONCERT

CHRISTMAS BEACH PARTIES

At the Society for the Promotion of Hospice Care’s annual Light Up A Life concert, you can expect traditional Christmas carols and performances by the Hong Kong Welsh www.hospicecare.org.hk Male Voice Choir and Island School Chamber Orchestra and Choir. The concert starts at 7.30pm. For tickets, at HK$250, and donations, visit www.hospicecare.org.hk.

The holiday fun at Treasure Island kicks off on December 8 with a Christmas roast dinner buffet, free-flow wine and beer. On December 9, at the annual South Lantau Children’s www.islanddance.com.hk Christmas Party, kids can expect food and drink, party performers and fun on the beach. Island Dance students perform at 1pm. To know more about these events, visit www.treasureislandhk.com.

CAROLS ON THE PITCH

NATIVITY IN THE PLAZA

You can expect hot December 14 chocolate, mulled wine and mince pies at the Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) Carols on the Pitch. Santa has promised to make a highjumpphotography.com special appearance, and the DBIS Young Entrepreneurs are offering a range of interesting products at the Christmas bazaar. The event starts at 5.30pm. For more information, visit www.dbis.edu.hk.

Organised by Discovery December 16 Bay International Community Church, Discovery Bay Church and the Church of Incarnation, Nativity in the Plaza runs from 4pm to 6pm. Catch a www.evoqueportraits.com narration of the nativity and sing along to Christmas carols. For more information, call 2987 4210 or email office@dbicc.org.

FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA

SEASONAL DINING

St John’s Cathedral, Central December 4

Discovery Bay International School

The Auberge

December 17-January 1

www.aubergediscoverybay.com

2295 8288 to make a booking.

Cafe Bord de Mer & Lounge is offering a festive afternoon tea set, with savoury and sweet treats, from December 17. Expect scones, chocolate crème brûlée and two sparkling cocktails. Call

NEW YEAR COUNTDOWN

Treasure Island, Pui O Beach December 8-9

DB Plaza

Throughout DB

You can expect seasonal specials in all DB restaurants over the holidays, notably the Winter Solstice set menu at Peony on December 22 (call 2500 1950), the Christmas redtri.com Eve dinner set at Café Siena (call 3156 7426) and D’Café’s turkey buffet dinner on December 24 (call 2500 1942).

December 22-25

December 31

The Bounty Entertainment & Sports Bar Ring in the new year at The Auberge with three hours of free-flow sparkling wine, house wine, beer, soft drinks and snacks, from 10pm to 1am. Expect live DJ performances and fun activities all night long. Book before December 21 for an early bird offer of HK$568 per person; the regular rate is HK$668. To make a booking, call 2295 8288.

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

www.aubergediscoverybay.com

DB EVENTS

Taiwanese snack bar

NEW in DB SPA BOTANICA SPECIAL OFFER Spa Botanica at the Auberge is offering DB residents special discounted revitalising treatments.

From Monday to Thursday, DBers enjoy 20% off winter-warming face or www.aubergediscoverybay.com body treatments that last an hour or more. To make a booking, call 2295 8129.

EPIC SLIME PARTIES

101 Tasty House now open in DB Plaza

Something for the community to be excited about!

“We wanted to bring a different kind of food to DB. We had it in mind that we wanted to provide food that would fit the lifestyle of the residents and something that the community would be excited about,�

Co-owner David So

Light snacks, drinks and set meals cater to all DBers Best seller: Brown sugar and house blended milk teas with pearls Signature dish with a secret recipe: Crispy popcorn chicken

epiclandhk.com

EpicLand is bringing the craze for slime to DB! A minimum of 10 kids, aged seven and up, are needed for you to book a slime-themed party in a private room. Rates are HK$295 per child. For enquiries, call 2441 0098 or email reception@epiclandhk.com.

CONGRATULATIONS RONALD ALISTAIRE KOOPMAN

Photo courtesy of PizzaExpress

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Congratulations to DB resident Ronald Alistaire Koopman who has been appointed to the role of restaurant manager at PizzaExpress, DB Plaza.

Ronald would like to thank the community for the warm welcome he has received and is looking forward to working with the restaurant's dedicated team to serve up delicious food to the people of DB.

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

Coming soon

VIP cards with 10% discounts Healthy options like chicken salad and soy milk tea Christmas set menu Open daily from 7.45am to 9pm.

Shop G26, Wing C DB Plaza Call 2658 9696 Top quality goods imported from licensed suppliers in Taiwan, the United States and Brazil

Photos courtesy of fb.me/101-tasty-house- 1929527893759790

FINANCIAL PLANNING ASK THE EXPERT...

Who am I? KayeKaye Khemlani, a native English speaker with a strong presence in Discovery Bay and Hong Kong.

I advise employers and residents to get a domestic helper insurance package because: 1.

Employers bear the liability for serious injuries and fatalities. In cases of any injuries and/ or total incapacity on the job, the Employees Compensation (EC) portion covers 80% of the helper’s actual salary and will help take them back to their home country.

2.

Insurance policies pay for all medical expenses at government hospitals only.

If employers see this policy as an inconvenience: 1.

They will face penalties, fines and medical expenses and will get no compensation for lost wages.

2.

Helper terminations after serious injuries can only be made after five months. Employers will have to pay wages for no work and will not be able to get a temporary replacement helper for that period.

Offer: Domestic helper insurance packages can be obtained from dozens of insurance companies, on average they are all less than HK$800 annually.

Sponsored By:

CONTACT ME: 9811 1554

kailash_k3@hotmail.com / kishus1@i-cable.com

Congratulations to all the participants, volunteers and organisers of the

Team Fear - Uncle Russ Coffee Adventure Challenge 2018 organised by Team Fear Picture by Team Fear official Photographer 2017

powered by

Uncle Russ espresso

DB EVENTS

CONGRATULATIONS DEBORAH MANNAS

Lippo Amphitheatre, Hong Kong Jockey Club

BRENDAN LE GRANGE

Illustration courtesy of Brendan le Grange Photo courtesy of Deborah Mannas

Lantau singer-songwriter Deborah Mannas has been invited to share her inspiration and perform her music at a S.H.E. Dialogue Series event on December 14 at 7pm. To register, visit asiasociety.org.

Christmas Lunch Set Sharing Menu

Lantau resident Brendan le Grange’s new actionadventure-thriller is set in Mui Wo and features the Lantau Trail. Butterfly Hill is officially released on December 5 but you can pick up a signed copy now at VIBE bookstore in Mui Wo.

Takeaway Christmas Mean Packages

From $158

Celebrate this festive season at Solera with Christmas inspired set lunches comprising of all time winter favourites.

Enjoy a scrumptious meal of turkey, bbq ribs, foie gras and festive paellas.

Not to be left behind are our hand crafted desserts: xmas pudding, toffee cake, eton mess.

Call us on 2555 0772 to book your delicious Christmas lunch now.

SPONSORED CONTENT

DB late-night transport

A look at the proposed changes

A

s many DB residents are aware, a proposal has been put forward to change the overnight transport links between Discovery Bay and Central by replacing some of the late-night ferry sailings with a bus service.

Explaining the rationale, a spokesperson for Discovery Bay Transportation Services Limited (DBTSL) said: “The idea originated from discussions among members of the PLG, who believe that this alternative can provide a more frequent and accessible overnight transport service for residents at lower fares, while helping to reduce emissions from the under-utilised ferry and stabilise the ferry fare in the long run.

A contentious subject for some commuters, the proposal was originally mooted in August 2018 by members of the Passenger Liaison Group (PLG), a group made up of Village Owners’ Committee representatives, who suggested that a bus service may be better suited to the number of passengers travelling to and from DB and Central during the early hours.

The spokesperson went on to say that an environmental study commissioned to compare the ecological impact of bus versus ferry journeys had established that each round ferry trip to and from DB creates one tonne of greenhouse gas emissions,

Central to DB

Weekends

11.30pm

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3am Photos courtesy of DB Transportation

“The daytime ferry operation has been subsidising the serious loss-making night-time operation.

Current usage of the overnight ferry is much lower than capacity, with many sailings carrying less than 30 passengers, while some are empty. This means the sailings are not cost effective.”

“The ferry operation is facing serious accumulated losses because of its exclusion from the government's Special Helping Measures scheme for outlying islands ferry operators, as well as soaring labour, maintenance and

DB to Central Weekdays

fuel costs, declining ridership and poor overnight ridership.

4.20am

4am

3am 4.20am

5am 6am

3.30am

4am 5am

4am 5am

6am

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5.50am 6.30am

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6.30am Average 0 - 60 passengers per overnight ferry trip

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

compared to 1.1 tonnes for 10 round trips of a double-decker bus.

The environmental consultant who conducted the study said that this equates to the planting of 70,000 trees annually.

So, what does the proposal mean in practice? The table opposite outlines the sailings that would be cancelled and the proposed bus departures that would replace them.

To summarise, if the changes go ahead, the first sailings in a morning from Central to DB would be at 6.30am, while the last ferries would depart at 11.30pm on weekdays and 12 midnight at weekends (Friday and Saturday evenings).

From DB to Central, the first sailings would be at 6am, while the last sailings would leave at 11pm on weekdays and 11.30pm at weekends. Additional sailings would be added on special days such as New Year’s Eve. In the absence of the ferries, double-decker buses would travel to and from Central, initially at 25- to 30-minute intervals and later on at between 50- and 60-minute intervals.

from DB to Central would cost less.

Elderly fares would be capped at HK$2, and midnight ferry sailings on Friday and Saturday evenings would be charged at the standard daytime rate instead of the current overnight fare.

an additional stop at the Macau ferry terminal.

DBTSL said that the estimated journey time between Central and DB North Plaza is 32 minutes, while the trip between Central and Coastline Villas would take 43 minutes.

The spokesperson said that the bus route would cover around 70% of households in DB and that connecting bus schedules for villages not directly along the route would be amended so that they were synchronised.

When it comes to prices, DBTSL is proposing fares of HK$42 for DB Resident Octopus card holders and HK$56 for visitors.

The 11.25pm weekday service

Addressing public reaction to the proposal, the spokesperson said: “We have received different opinions from residents. Some have reacted very favourably, requesting additional stop(s) outside Tsim Sha Tsui or Sunny Bay, while some have raised concerns on the proposed schedules stopping before midnight, toilet facilities and journey times.

We will seriously consider each of the suggestions and take into consideration any workable option.”

Residents are now awaiting the launch of a local consultation by the Transport Department, who will ultimately have the final say. DBTSL says that the consultation will give all DB residents the opportunity to make their voices heard.

Residents wishing to put forward suggestions are requested to email DBTSL at dbtpl@hkri.com.

On the DB-bound route, buses would start from Pier 3 (which would remain open for passengers to use bathroom and seating facilities) and call at Connaught Road (near the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce), the Lantau Link Toll Plaza (for interchange with overnight bus routes from Kowloon and the New Territories), and the DB Tunnel Toll Plaza before then entering DB. In DB, they would call at DB North Plaza and a number of bus stops along Discovery Bay Road, terminating at Coastline Villas.

The Central-bound buses would follow the route in reverse, with www.arounddb.com December 2018

29

SPOTLIGHT

Pianist, composer, songwriter and four-year DB resident Alysha Gauthier began her musical career at a young age and has been sharing her love for the melodic art with audiences ever since

W

hen did you first start playing and composing music?

I started playing classical piano at the age of four with the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. I began improvising and composing when I was eight, and soon I was creating chord progressions of my own and playing my own melodies. The weekends we spent as a family at our lake house surrounded by nature helped my extravert personality to tap into my creativity and emotional connection with the piano, and I developed confidence in playing my own compositions by performing at church, music festivals and corporate events.

What inspired you to become a musician? When I was a child, my dad would often come home after a long, stressful day at work and ask me to play a composition for him. I saw the comfort and enjoyment this brought him, and it inspired me to pursue my musical dreams.

Photo by Andrew Spires

I’ve always enjoyed playing pieces by romantic impressionist composers such as Chopin, Debussy and Brahms. I also love listening to the jazz and blues improvisations of Miles Davis, Keith Jarrett, Etta James, Anita O’Day and Billie Holiday.

How would you describe your musical style? My compositions incorporate a range of styles from classical to pop, rock, folk and world music. My first album, Candlelit Chandeliers, is a collection of 10 piano tracks, including collaborations with prominent film composers Christine Hals from Norway, Jochem Weirink from the Netherlands and Dzijan Emrin from Macedonia, who created and recorded the strings and orchestral arrangements for the compositions.

My next album, which I’m currently working on, will feature

vocal pieces with an acoustic, folk-pop sound.

Stay tuned for my single release in spring 2019!

What have been the highlights of your career to date? I love to perform my compositions and have played at a number of big events in Europe. For the past eight years, I’ve also been honoured to play for distinguished guests at the annual Presidential Breakfast in Washington, D.C., as well as performing at New York's Riverside Chapel. Most recently, I have performed pieces from my upcoming vocal album at Hotel Cafe in Hollywood and at Prachtwerk in Kreuzberg, Berlin.

Another major highlight was receiving my masters certificate in orchestration for film and TV from Berklee College of Music and being able to study under the direction of film scorers such as Pinar Toprak and Ben Newhouse.

You teach piano here in DB. What do you enjoy most about working with/ in the community? I’ve been teaching piano since 2002 and opened my piano and vocal studio in DB in 2014. The most rewarding aspect for me is being able to inspire, energise and motivate my students’ quest for knowledge and their passion for music no matter where they sit on their own journey. I also enjoy performing here in DB and have played at Hemingway’s, Discovery College and various other locations across Hong Kong.

What advice would you give to budding musicians/ composers? Always keep a pocket of time for music.

You’ll never regret it!

When words fail, music will always find a way.

Find more local heroes @ www.arounddb.com

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

[

[ Centre Stage: Alysha Gauthier

GIVEAWAYS

HERE’S YOUR CHANCE TO WIN PRIZES!

Around DB prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until the 10th of the month to apply.

Scan the QR code, or go to www.arounddb.com/giveaways, select the giveaway you want, and enter your details into the online form.

Win a corner carpet from Red Velvet

Red Velvet is offering one reader a Persiandesign, 80 cm by 150 cm, polypropylene corner carpet (worth HK$1,100).

Win a Childs Farm toiletries set from Baby Basics Baby Basics is offering three readers a Childs Farm toiletries set consisting of strawberry and organic mint shampoo and conditioner, and unscented baby shampoo, wash and moisturiser (worth HK$330 each).

Online home store Red Velvet caters primarily to Lantau residents, making it convenient for them to find what fb.me/redvelvetdiscoverybayonlinestore they need without heading to the shops. Specialising in decorative lighting products and 100% customisable rugs and carpets, it also offers bespoke products including lacquer jewellery boxes, aromatic candles and cushion covers. Visit the Red Velvet Discovery Bay - online store Facebook page.

From its store in Central and online, Baby Basics supplies parents and parents-to-be with premier international child-related products. The wide range of items on offer includes everything from maternity wear to baby essentials and toys for kids up to four years. Free delivery to Hong Kong Island is available for purchases over HK$500, and to the outlying islands for purchases over HK$800. Visit www.babybasicshk.com.

Win tickets to see Sigma and A Simple Space

Win an Epic Foods DB gift hamper

www.babybasicshk.com

Tai Kwun Circus Plays is offering two readers a pair of tickets (worth HK$280 each) to see Sigma on December 24 at 8pm and A Simple Space on December 28 at 8pm at the Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts in Central.

Sigma, Gandini Juggling's beautifully choreographed new show, running from December www.taikwun.hk 22 to 26, combines shadow play, a fun use of mirrors and breathtaking juggling. A Simple Space running from December 28 to 30, sees seven acrobats pushed to their limits in a captivating performance suitable for kids and adults alike. For tickets, at HK$280, visit www.taikwun.hk.

Photo courtesy of Epic Foods DB

Epic Foods DB is offering one reader a gift hamper filled with a mix of premium products including a variety of raw and air-dried meats, smoked fish, cheese, condiments, sauces and wine (worth HK$1,000).

New neighbourhood butcher Epic Foods DB offers topquality ready-made meals as well as prime cut steaks, fresh, smoked and marinated meats, and seafood all at great prices. Epic Foods is committed to sourcing only the best global products with an environmental focus. To know more, visit the Epic Foods HK Facebook page.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Pia Minsberg, Felicity Broadley and Sean Humphries for a bubble, maxi and smart sparkling water machine from SodaMagic; Maura Corcoran for a grazing platter from The Green Platters; Regina Davies and Julie Simon for a place at Faust’s winter theatre or creative writing programme; Claire Oneill, Michael Nilsson and Tatum Claypole for tickets to MAMMA MIA!; and Kerry Rochester for a place at HK Dragons’ Christmas or New Year football camp.

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

Epic Foods’ Xmas Set dinner

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APPETIZER Smoked salmon carpaccio, salmon rillettes and dill cream.

MAIN COURSE Turkey breast roll with cranberry sauce.

DESSERT Sumptuous New York style cheescake Enjoy a complimentary bottle of house wine for tables of four and above having a Xmas set. People ordering the Xmas set can enter their names for a New Year’s Eve Deluxe Hamper prize draw.

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PROFILE

Koolamundo!

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

K

Kimberley Kleczka puts her experience to use making the world a little better one cow, dog and chicken at a time. Elizabeth Kerr reports

imberley Kleczka looks like a motherly educator at first glance: quick with a self-deprecating joke – about looking like a Smurf in her vibrant ‘get up,’ about fading looks – and effusive in her speech, demanding you pay attention.

But make no mistake, she has an agenda involving chickens and cows and dragons, and not a lick of shame about it.

“I didn’t want to be an author, I wanted to be an ‘edutainer,’” she begins, describing how she marries her extensive entertainment background to education for her Koolamundo series of reading books, activity books and puppets for children

up to six. Kimberley’s the first to admit she’s not a teacher, but she is the kind of person who should be writing kids’ books – goodhumoured, chatty, vivacious, and eager to ask about everyone else.

It’s fun to be around Kimberley.

She can drop flawless Xhosa at a whim. She has a friend who’s a yodeller... As she sees it, formal education is too over the top.

“Don’t get me wrong, education is important. But there has to be some fun in it. It’s not all about what comes out of a book.”

Showbiz-y credentials A UK native, Kimberley left England when she was eight, and

has been on the road ever since.

Stopping first in South Africa, she lived in Nairobi and Abidjan (in Côte d'Ivoire) before returning to Europe in 1983. Along the way she met her husband, Tim, a former marine and eventually settled down in California long enough to get a journalism degree. Then it was off to the Netherlands and New Zealand. Tim entered the private sector a year ago, which brought the couple to Hong Kong. “That’s kind of how I’m here. I piggy-backed along quite happily,” Kimberley cracks.

While Tim was guarding embassies, Kimberley embarked on several showbiz-y careers, including voiceover work, casting,

www.arounddb.com December 2018

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35

PROFILE

media training, talent management and broadcasting (she interned with the stalwart Entertainment Tonight before starting her own magazine show Orange County News). She was ahead of the curve when she founded a plus-size modelling agency during her stint in New Zealand. “I did a varnish commercial that ran for about 10 years. I did well on that one,” she says with a laugh.

Most interesting, though, is her work in the pageant industry, for organisations like Miss Universe and Miss America. Pageants are having a hard go of it PR-wise these days, and Kimberley herself admits to having a different opinion of them now than she did in the mid-90s. “If you asked me would I do it again? No. They are good in some ways and in other ways they can be detrimental. I wouldn’t get rid of them. They should change. When I was with Miss America we tried to get rid of the swimsuit competition,” she recalls, pointing out that segment has been under fire for some time. “But pageants are a vehicle for a lot of women to get an education, to be ambassadors for their countries, to get their platforms out there.”

It’s a cool world Kimberley finally started focusing on writing in 2012 while living in the Netherlands (her kids – Keanan, 29, working in Switzerland and Kaylah, 24, pursuing a PhD in London – were long gone), and the move to Discovery Bay last year provided her with the perfect opportunity to really dig in. “I needed somewhere quiet where I could write. I do a lot

of my own greenscreening and voiceovers. Hong Kong is all *******,” she says, using sound effects to make the point. “I go over to the island two or three times a week, and I love it, but I do like coming back here to get on with my stuff.”

Is DB home for good? Who can say? “We’re definitely global nomads. And the problem is now, where do we retire to? We have no clue, because neither of us has any roots anywhere,” Kimberley ponders. But it’s home right now, and it feels right. “[DB] is very multicultural. For me to live someplace that’s got one culture?

I don’t get it.”

Koolamundo is all about understanding who people are, and what people are. I do it through animals. My tagline is ‘It’s a cool world’. Because it is Kimberley plans on expanding her Koolamundo project next year (what’s ready can be viewed at www.koolamundo.com), and she has a Bookazine event on December 2 (Christmas songs) and others to follow early in 2019. There will be brightly illustrated books, songs,

apps, videos, puppets, backpacks, notebooks and t-shirts emblazoned with Koolamundo protagonists like Zagon the Dragon, Chuck the Chook, a dog, a bird, an old goat and, of course, Klara the Cow. So why should kids read Kimberley’s adventure stories instead of a book by a triple-doctorate holding early childhood education expert?

“Because of my, let’s say, education [gained] by travelling around the world. I think I can educate on a different spectrum,” she says. “I wouldn’t go into schools and teach fourth and fifth graders, but I think I can reach the little ones. No, I don’t have a master’s degree… but I do think I’ve got enough education to put forward my experiences.”

Kimberley also has an important message to get across, and today’s ugly social climate has inspired her to pick up the pace on getting Koolamundo out there.

“Clara the Cow’s about love and friendship and understanding and acceptance. Koolamundo is all about understanding who people are, and what people are. I do it through animals. My tagline is ‘It’s a cool world.’ Because it is.”

Kimberley may not need to find a place to retire if she realises her Partridge Family goals in a travelling Koolamundo lounge bus stocked with music and books. “That’s what I’d like to do, get on this bus and go around the world and take this bus to places where they don’t have libraries and the Internet,” she finishes. “Koolamundo’s all about being happy, about laugher, caring.

It’s important to smile.” Now more than ever.

Find more local heroes @ www.arounddb.com

36

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

Winter camps A.C.T Worldwide December 18- 22

Ark Eden December 17-21

A.C.T Worldwide offers a dramaintensive, Christmas-themed extracurricular programme for kids aged 8 to 12 in DB and Tung Chung. Through various drama-based activities, students are empowered to speak confidently in front of others. One-to-one performance coaching in presentations, voice and acting are also available.

Ark Eden’s Christmas camps focus on nurturing kids’ love of the outdoors.

Surrounded by nature on a hillside in Mui Wo, the group is hosting five different camps for kids aged 5 to 11. Each camp offers up a range of activities, including campfire cooking, scavenger hunts, playing in a treehouse and nature crafts.

5996 0921, info.actworldwide@gmail.com, www.actworldwide.com

2984 5355, info@arkedenonlantau.org, www.arkedenonlantau.org.

Coding Kids

Dr Bear Education Centre

December 17-21 & December 31-January 4 Coding Kids has winter camps set up for all different ages and levels at Seaview Parkridge. Tutors make coding the incredible adventure that it is, using games and online tools that are guaranteed to spark curiosity and innovative thought.

Children learn everything from how to make their own computer to how to build a company website.

December 17-21, January 2-4 Dr Bear Education Centre’s Christmas Mandarin Immersive Camp in DB Plaza provides a relaxing and joyful learning environment for kids aged 2 and above.

Classroom-based learning includes topics such as Christmas, winter, travelling and the New Year.

6762 6264, drbearschool@gmail.com, fb.me/drbearschool.

6274 1167, twayburne@codingkidshk.com, www.codingkidshk.com

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

Banana Art Club

December 17, 18, 20, 24, 27 & 31, January 2 & 3 Banana Art Club’s Christmas camps at Discovery College encourage kids aged 3+ and teens aged 12+ to explore their artistic boundaries and creativity.

Each multi-activity art camp covers different mediums like calligraphy, Chinese painting, crafts, canvas painting, printmaking and 3D building. bananaartclub@gmail.com, www.bananaartclub.com

HK Dragons Football Club

December 17-21 & December 31-January 4 HK Dragons Football Club’s Christmas and New Year camps at DB North Plaza Community Centre Pitch are suitable for Little Dragons (U4 to U5), Junior Dragons (U6 to U8) and Senior Dragons (U9 and up). Kids develop technique, improve skills and play matches in a fun and safe environment. Each participant receives a certificate at the end.

5322 5556, theoffice@dragons.hk, www.dragons.hk

Cool ways to keep your kids entertained over the Xmas break Pantone 103C

iGym

December 15-17 iGym’s Christmas camp, which takes a unique approach to teaching fluid gymnastics, is open to boys and girls aged 4 and up. Beginner and intermediate sessions include games, and arts and crafts to support healthy, happy children in a high-energy learning environment. iGym’s FOBISEA Gymnastics camp is also available to help gymnasts prepare for their upcoming international competition in January.

Mandarin for Munchkins

Kids aged 5 to 9 can enjoy an active break with friends at Kapuhala Kids Christmas camp in DB North Plaza.

Each day, the Little Warriors challenge themselves with a different activity, such as team games, racing, spin bikes and bootcamp, while improving their strength and endurance and learning new skills.

Mandarin for Munchkins’ sensation and creation Mandarin Immersion camps at DB North Plaza see kids aged 3 to 7 focus on a different theme each day.

Teachers guide children to see, hear, touch and create, while learning and speaking Mandarin.

December 17-21

igymhk@icloud.com

Rumple and Friends

Yoga Bay

Rumple and Friends’ Crazy Christmas Camp in Sheung Wan transports kids aged 3 to 10 to the North Pole, where they help the Elves to fix Santa’s sleigh.

Children can expect drama exercises and games, arts and crafts, Christmas carols and dances, and they get to perform in an original play for friends and family.

9830 8287, info@rumpleandfriends.com, www.rumpleandfriends.com

Pantone 165C

Kapuhala Train-in-Space

9480 7464, crystal@kapuhala.com, www.kapuhalaspace.com

December 17-21

Pantone 2587C

December 17-21 & 31, January 4

December 17-21, 26-28 & December 31-January 4 Yoga Bay is hosting three weeks of Aerial Yoga camps in DB North Plaza for kids aged 7 to 14. Children can explore and relax their bodies and minds in a safe environment with English, Mandarin and Cantonese speaking instructors. They develop essential skills such as body awareness, strength, balance, flexibility, fitness, confidence, discipline, focus, concentration and social ability.

2486 9012, db@mandarinformunchkins.com, www.mandarinformunchkins.com

YogaUP

December 17-21 & December 31-January 4 At Yoga Up’s Kids Camp in DB North Plaza, kids, aged 3 to 12, stretch and energise their bodies, while learning mindfulness and self-calming and relaxation techniques. Kids can also explore their creativity through a variety of art materials in a harmonious, positive and non-competitive atmosphere.

8197 5591, hi@yogaup.com.hk

6704 9851, namaste@yogabay.hk, yogabay.hk

www.arounddb.com December 2018

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IN FOCUS

download goodness Suveera Sharma talks to three DB residents who have married their will to help others with their passion for technology to birth apps that could change the world

S

Photos by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com, and courtesy of Leon Adeoye

ince ancient times, the greatest thinkers have guided us: Lasting happiness lies in helping others. This is certainly backed up by the sunny dispositions of three DBers – Twone Moreland, Navin Arjun Soni and Leon Adeoye – whose ground-breaking apps are doing just that. The trio’s individual stories and achievements are truly inspiring, and perhaps never more so than at Christmas, traditionally the time of giving.

40

Leon has an infectious enthusiasm about him. His app, Enrich Others, provides a social sharing platform on which we can gift our once valued but now unwanted items to others for free. Enrich Others aims to solve the problem of excess waste generation, while lowering users’ carbon footprints and helping them give to those in need.

Navin’s altruistic passion shines through in his social-enterprise app Gift-a-Deed, which allows for direct person-to-person donation of life’s basic necessities. Aiming to bridge the gap between the wealthy and the underprivileged, the idea is to connect available resources – food, water and clothes – with those who need them most.

Leon Adeoye, creator of Enrich Others

Twone Moreland’s health-andwellbeing app, Kairy, is designed to help people (primarily parents with special needs kids) improve the lives of those in their care. Users log detailed information, from school routines and activities to therapies and medical appointments, and benefit from daily notifications and medical reminders. The in-app algorithm uses all the data provided – about seizures, behaviours, mood changes, even possible triggers like moon phases – to create customised reports, that

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

allow doctors to treat their patients more effectively.

The inspiration Talking to Twone, Navin and Leon, it’s interesting to discover where the idea for each of these apps originated. What was the Eureka moment?

Twone, who left DB in the summer, is a dedicated mother of two, and Kairy is named after her son Kai, who has special needs. “In 2015,

Navin Arjun Soni, creator of Gift-a-Deed

Kai had intense convulsions that lasted for 67 minutes,” she says.

“He was diagnosed with epilepsy and after that my husband and I had to record a lot of information, constantly adjust medications, and note down behaviour patterns and triggers. Doctors always asked for detailed information so that they could prescribe the right medication. Finding it very difficult to log everything down, we decided to make an app that would help us and others like us.”

apartment clear out. “Just before my daughter was born, we gave away lots of stuff for free to friends and even strangers. Some decent stuff, I’m ashamed to say, got thrown out,” Leon explains. “That is when I realised that there was no platform where we could somehow reduce and recycle the waste that we produce as a community. This inspired me to make an app that would do just that.”

A near-fatal accident in 2011 was the trigger for Navin to go about creating Gift-a-Deed. “Lying in the hospital bed, looking at my own mortality up close, I wondered about the legacy I would leave behind if I were to die,” he says. “In my illness, I realised that I wanted to help others.

I wanted to create something, not just donate money.”

Download these apps and you’ll find they are all exceptionally good at what they set out to do, and jam-packed with innovative userfriendly features. So how do they work exactly?

Leon’s lightbulb moment came in 2016 when the idea for Enrich Others was born from something we have all experienced – an

Apps for good

Gift-a-Deed enables those in need to tag and post a need, by using the camera icon of the app and writing a few words. Donors gift a need by using the app to find a need they want to give. “We use location-based technology on Google maps,” explains

Navin. “The app allows pins to be dropped on Google maps with each pin denoting an unfulfilled need of food, water, clothes, shelter, medicine etc. Donors can find the needy easily by navigating the pins. This enables individuals to make personal donations and also allows charities to collaborate with each other.”

With Enrich Others, the basic premise is also deceptively simple. “App users maintain a category-based list of things they want, and when someone posts a gift they also have to select a category. The app’s algorithm then matches people up based on categories and GPS locations,” Leon explains. “When potential beneficiaries make their requests, they are required to provide a justification for their need. The benefactor is then free to review these justifications, along with the profile and gifting history of the potential beneficiaries before deciding who should be enriched – hopefully in favour of those

www.arounddb.com December 2018

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IN FOCUS

individuals with the most generous gifting histories, or those who need this particular gift the most.”

As for Kairy, Twone explains that it works on two levels. “The back end is the database where people record every detail about medicines, appointments, symptoms, sensory arousal etc.

There is even a wristband that constantly sends data about heart rate and other activity to the system.

The front end, on the other hand, sends reminders and notifications, along with information about supplements and food provided by a qualified nutritionist.”

Shaping the future The question is how far can these apps take us? What does the future hold?

enables everyone to do a good deed today, without depending on any one organisation or government,” Navin adds. “What we want to see is a shared economy, the democratisation of charity.”

Leon is also hoping to expand Enrich Others’ reach, and he is looking for volunteers to promote the app overseas. “I would like to increase the global footprint of the app – it already has multilingual support, and we are working on more languages,” he says. Going forward, Leon is also hoping to involve kids by going into schools and waking students up to their social responsibility, and he plans to partner-up with charities and NGOs. “I have lots of ideas on how this app could work during disaster relief and

charity campaigns,” he says.

Ultimately, Leon envisions a scenario where he will be able to link with Google, so that a search to buy an item also comes up with the item listed on Enrich Others. “I want to create a parallel economy of sorts, where you are not forced to pay for something which might already be available near you, for free,” he says.

It is indeed inspiring to meet people who are this committed to helping others. If we truly want to lead a happy life, we cannot isolate ourselves from our environment and the people around us. There’s an ancient Sanskrit phrase, Vasudhaiva kutumbakam, ‘the world is a family.’

Maybe it’s high time we all started living that way – and not just over the Christmas break.

Twone believes that widespread use of Kairy will vastly improve the quality and quantity of medical data collected, thereby helping in research and better management of medical conditions. The main aim is to improve the health and wellbeing of users and their families. “We hope that Kairy will change the lives of many,” Twone says.

Similarly, Navin looks forward to a time when his app, which has already been endorsed by the United Nations, reaches a wider audience, and emerges as a global tool for eradicating world poverty and hunger. Seeking to involve any corporation or household with excess food, water or clothes, he is in the process of expanding the Gifta-Deed Ambassador programme, where young members are tasked to help in promoting and improving the app.

Twone Moreland, creator of Kairy

FIND IT

• • •

Enrich Others, www.enrichothers.com Gift-a-Deed, www.giftadeed.com Kairy, kairy.io

“Gift-a-Deed is a platform that

Find more local heroes @ www.arounddb.com

42

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

Come and en winter wonderjoy an epic land from December the 1s your festive fam t. Have ily photo shoot with ‘Ven Studios’ and ou ture guest, who arrivr Special 24/25/26 of Deces on the ember.

WISH LIST

g n i tS ock fillers

Gifts under HK$300 from Bookazine

TINC BENDY BUNDLE HK$85

HARRY POTTER MOLESKINE NOTEBOOK HK$198

MR PERFECT MUG

HK$140

BOOKLIGHT HK$112

CHOCOLATE DOUGHNUT SOCKS HK$100

SLEEPING MASK HONG KONG ORNAMENT HK$100

HK$150

Photos courtesy of Bookazine

CHEETAH WATER BOTTLE HK$260

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POUCH HK$130

CONTACT

• Bookazine has stores across Hong Kong including one at Shop 104B, DB Plaza, bookazine.com.hk

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

Toddler

toys

Educational Xmas gifts from Toys Club

WALK-A-LONG SNAIL HK$269

PURPLE GOURMET KITCHEN HK$1,499

TAKE-A-LONG ACTIVITY BOX HK$319

BEANIE BOOS

HK$79.90

GROW AND GO RIDE ON HK$439

Photos courtesy of Toys Club

3-IN-1 RACE AND LEARN HK$299 PULL AND LEARN ALLIGATOR HK$249

CONTACT

• Toys Club, 5/ F On Hing Building, 1 On Hing Terrace, Central, 2167 8474, www.itoysclub.com www.arounddb.com December 2018

45

WISH LIST

Deck the halls Seasonal home accessories from Inside and Red Velvet HANDCRAFTED LACQUER JEWELRY BOX, RED VELVET

HK$500-750 KNITTED STRIPE CHRISTMAS STOCKING, INSIDE HK$300

WOOLEN SHEEP HANGING DECORATION, INSIDE

HK$69

Photos courtesy of Inside and Red Velvet

HANDCRAFTED GLASS BULB ORNAMENT, INSIDE HK$130

46

CONTACT

CHRISTMAS CUSHION COVER (45 X 45CM), RED VELVET

SCENTED SOY CANDLE, RED VELVET

HK$70

HK$80

• Inside has stores across Hong Kong including 246 Landmark Prince’s Building, Central, 2537 6298 and 17 Chung Hau Street, Mui Wo. 2890 8606, inside.com.hk • Red Velvet Discovery Bay - online store Facebook page

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

FAMILY MATTERS

A multicultural Xmas

Photos by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

Suveera Sharma sits down with three ‘mixed’ Lantau families to find out how they celebrate the silly season

The Spires family

48

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

The James family

estive fun can be had on the beach, just as easily as it can around a log fire. For some it’s all about the ham, for others it’s the turkey.

And while some children listen out for Santa on December 24, others wait to have their stockings filled by Father Frost on January 1. Every family has its own way of doing Christmas.

F

same company. Despite some opposition from Anu’s parents, they were married in 2003. They’ve been living in DB since 2004.

Each of us brings a diverse range of traditions to the table on and around December 25, many of which hark right back to our own childhoods. So imagine how rich Christmas must be when it’s created by couples who come from different cultures and nationalities – imagine the kaleidoscope of traditions that their kids are inheriting.

Not surprisingly, it’s a fusion Christmas in Anu and David’s house. The tree comes out and Amber, their seven-year-old daughter, puts the star on top.

The dining table overflows with a mix of Indian and Western dishes.

“Instead of a roast turkey, we do a whole roast tandoori chicken,” says Anu. “Palak paneer is Amber’s favourite dish.”

Anglo-Indian celebration

Regardless of the time of year, David explains that the family bonds over food and travel. “We are trying to raise Amber as a global citizen,” he says. “We take

Anu and David James met in Hyderabad India in 2002, where they were working for the

“I did trips in and around Hyderabad, and during my stay there, I understood and completely immersed myself in the culture of the country. Our core values are very similar,” says UK-born David.

her to both temples and churches.”

Anglo-Chinese jamboree Andrew and Nancy Spires have made Tung Chung their home for the past five years, now with their two girls Storm, 3 and Juno, 1.

Nancy is from Hong Kong and was educated in England. She met UKborn Andrew (Around DB’s senior graphic designer) through mutual friends in London, England.

In this East-meets-West home, the family celebrates festivals from both cultures. “Halloween, Chinese New Year and Christmas are our favourites,” says Nancy.

So why is Christmas so special for her? “I have very fond memories of Christmas growing up,” she says.

“I would go out with my parents to see the Christmas lights in Kowloon. It became a magical, yearly family tradition. Those bright lights and the loud music left an  impression on me as a child.”

www.arounddb.com December 2018

49

FAMILY MATTERS

Nancy and Andrew agree that what’s important now is that they make Christmas special for their kids. “We try and recreate more and more of what we did in London,” Andrew says. “We have a Christmas Eve dinner and Nancy’s parents come over. The menu is a unique mix of Chinese and British.

“Back home we always had a real Christmas tree, however now given the size of Hong Kong flats, we make do with a fake one,” Andrew adds. “Every year, I take out Christmas decorations that my grandmother passed on to me to put up on the tree. They are beautiful and special.”

“Every year, we write down our goals for the year and put them in a jar and see if we have achieved them by the end of the year,” Nancy adds.

in 2010. A year later, they were married in Australia, Lisa’s home country. DB is now their home and has been for the past six years, alongside sons John, 4 and Elijah, 18 months.

“We have a very traditional Italian dinner with antipasti, veal with tuna sauce, Bagna càuda (Italian fondue) and Agnolotti pasta (meat-stuffed pasta). We go to midnight mass and spend time with family.”

“DB has been good in bringing us together, given that we come from countries that are so far apart,” says Lisa.

Here in DB, Christmas for the Bechis is a mix of both traditions. “We call friends over for lunch, and our table leans more towards Italian cuisine,” Lissa says.

Recalling Christmas as a child, Lisa says, “It’s summer in Australia – 30°C, bright and sunny. Very often we spend it on the beach with seafood and salads on the menu.

The entire family comes together, of course, to celebrate and add to the fun.”

In Italy, on the other hand, Francesco grew up enjoying a proverbial white Christmas. “It is winter in Italy, the temperature is -10°C,” he explains.

No matter how we celebrate Christmas, or with whom, the infectious enthusiasm is the constant. The loud chatter of friends and family over champagne or mulled wine. Christmas carols everywhere and the energetically decorated malls. You cannot escape the magic… and actually why should you? Just revel in the festive spirit and go with the flow.

Australian-Italian fete Lisa and Francesco Bechis met in the picturesque snow-covered town of Sauze d'Oulx in Italy, Francesco’s home country, while Lisa was travelling around Europe

The Bechis family

Find more family-oriented stories @ www.arounddb.com

50

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

Spend your

Christmas & New Year at

Great drinks, great food and great company.

Tel: 2321 5500 www.atavola.hk Follow us on Facebook for upcoming events

atavolahk

Shop E&F G/F, Seaview Crescent Plaza Tung Chung, Lantau Island

Gifts giving

TALKING POINTS

that keep On

Give experiences instead of things this Christmas and you’ll delight family and friends, while cutting back on time and money spent in the malls.

Ray Robertson reports

I

Photos courtesy of www.unsplash.com

have to tell you from the getgo that my super power is choosing the perfect gift. I take pride in my ability to pick ‘the best present ever,’ each and every time. But my brother-in-law always has me beat. I’ve spent the past four years not knowing what to buy him for Christmas, or for his birthday for that matter. He’s a very contented and self-contained man, and he’s married to my sister, so I can never think what I could possibly give him to make his life more complete.

52

Stripped of my gift-giving super power, I’ve ended up buying my brother-in-law some pretty strange things over the years; they’re not panic buys because I put a lot of thought into them but they are unerringly inappropriate and, as often as not, downright silly. The first Christmas I gave him The Dangerous Book for Boys, with

a note saying that this way he’d know how to save my sister and their children in the apocalypse.

A gloomy choice on reflection; an odd one too, because Bear Grylls is a mate. Then there was the glowin-the-dark fishing tackle which turned out to be for kids, and the totally random (though vinyl) Fine Young Cannibals album.

This year, I’d decided on Thai fisherman’s pants (silk ones), that is until a friend kindly suggested I give up with the gifts and gift my bro an experience instead.

Experience gifting Giving experiences instead of gifts turns out to be a bit of a thing; it’s really catching on. The idea is that by giving someone an experience, anything from a sky dive to cookery lessons, you are giving them something

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

memorable and/ or useful that they can enjoy for years to come.

Research says that the giver is happy because they’re giving something meaningful, and the recipient is happy because he gets something of real and lasting value.

Thomas Gilovich and Matthew Killingsworth, researchers at Cornell University, published a paper in the Journal of Psychological Science in 2014 revealing that experiences provide more lasting happiness than material possessions. They found that people tend to get less happy with material purchases over time, and happier with remembered experiences. We quickly take physical things, even the cutest Maje dress or coolest iPhone, for granted, while memories get richer and more meaningful as the years go by.

Want to gift an experience? How about a helicopter ride?

“You can really like your material stuff. You can even think that part of your identity is connected to those things, but nonetheless they remain separate from you. In contrast, your experiences really are part of you. We are the sum total of our experiences,” Gilovich says.

If experiences maketh the man, the good thing is that there are any number of experiences to be had, and to give. It’s true, you have to really know people well if you are to gift them an experience they will enjoy, but that’s the only caveat.

For DB couples looking to treat each other this Christmas, a helicopter ride to Macau springs immediately to mind, as does a meal in a favourite restaurant, or a weekend away. And here’s a top tip for male readers: a night at the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong never fails to win (or re-win) fair maiden.

Kids and adults, alike, will gain lasting benefit and enjoyment from being gifted a course in something that interests them, be that ballet, ballroom dancing, basketball, drama, yoga, cookery, paragliding, photography, or permaculture. For some of the many classes available right here in DB, turn to page 38.

Enriching experiences for the whole family are also easy enough to dream up. How about a nature tour of Lantau, or a Dolphinwatch boat trip? You could gift everyone a Friends of Hong Kong Ballet membership or pre-book tickets to a few big-name shows at AsiaWorldExpo. The promise of twice-monthly trips to the Wednesday-night meets at Happy Valley Racecourse would be another good bet.

With experiences like this, you’re creating an opportunity for your family to get out there and create

memories together, so what you’re really gifting is your time – you don’t have to splash the cash.

Less of a greed fest Giving an experience also makes sense on a totally practical level.

What’s central here is that you’re not just giving people random stuff that they don’t need, that in all likelihood they don’t want, and that, given the size of most DB apartments, they’ll be hard pushed to find room for. Most of us are already drowning in material possessions – toys, clothes, gadgets – why fan the materialistic flames, why add to your loved ones’ load?

There’s something about experience-giving that makes Christmas less of a greed fest. It frees you up from fighting your way through overcrowded neon-

www.arounddb.com December 2018

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53

TALKING POINTS lit malls with your almost maxedout credit card at the ready, in search of something ‘special’ for your best girlfriend. And if you have a couple of rewarding experiences already lined up for your kids, you’ll be less inclined to feel you have to purchase every last item on their ever-expanding Christmas wish lists.

Of course, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without presents to wrap and unwrap, and the good news is that even though an experience isn’t tangible, you can still give it in present form. Let’s say you’ve signed your husband up for a scuba-diving course… rather than just handing him an envelope with the voucher inside, pack the envelope in a really big beribboned box. His delight, when he unwraps not the halfexpected gaming console or crate

of wine but his ticket to a lifetime of underwater adventure, will prove you’re on to something.

Sometimes a material gift leads to an experience, so if you want to widen the net there are plenty of options.

Gifts that keep on giving include board games, musical instruments, indoor gardening or homebrewing kits, camping equipment, a telescope, a flower press.

It suddenly strikes me that all those suggestions hark back to another era, and maybe that’s part of the charm of experience gifting. Did I mention The Dangerous Book for Boys by Conn and Hal Iggulden (and The Daring Book for Girls by Andrea J. Buchanan and Miriam Peskoqitz)? I still think these books make great gifts. Both are designed to interest kids (and

adults) in age-old pursuits like reading a compass, growing a crystal, navigating by the stars, or building a treehouse. It’s fair to say they are packed full of experiences that will tear loved ones away from their screens, encouraging them to get out there and do.

If you aren’t fully convinced by this Christmas narrative or you have already purchased gifts for this year, consider adding some experiences to the pile under the tree, and watching people’s reactions as they unwrap them. The joy on their faces may encourage you to transition to more experiencebased gifting next year. After all, if you were given the choice between Thai fisherman’s pants (silk ones), or a family dinner at your favourite Thai restaurant, which would you choose?

Find 11 DB experiences to gift little ones on page 38

ISL

Veterinary clinic for your exotic pets ISLAND EXOTICS

Open 9am -7pm, 7 days a week

2/F Hing Tai Building, 139-140 Connaught Road West, Sai Ying Pun 15 minutes walk from the DB Ferry Pier in Central Consultations available in French

Tel: 2858 9388 www.taiwaiexotic.com

OFFICE 3483 5003 www.homesolutions.hk

Sharon Riley Misako Takato Tanja Gelderblom Jackie Miller Kelly Merrick

9664 4749 (E-413823) 9757 0927 (S-287062) 9764 7832 (S-590669) 6191 4589 (S-587939) 9331 8141 (S-365384)

NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG Meet the HomeSolutions Team

Sharon Christine Riley EA Licence No: E-413823 +852 9664 4749 sharon@homesolutions.hk

Misako Takato Languages: English, Japanese and Spanish EA Licence No: S-287062 +852 9757 0927 misako@homesolutions.hk

SALE $18.8M CHEUNG SHA VILLA + GARDEN 1287’ Net + Rooftop + Large garden

Tanja Gelderblom Languages: English, and Afrikaans EA Licence No: S-590669 +852 9764 7832 Tanja@homesolutions.hk

SALE $12M MUI WO VILLAGE HOUSE 2070’ + Rooftop + Large Garden

Jackie Miller

Kelly Merrick

EA Licence No: S-587939 +852 6191 4589 Jackie@homesolutions.hk

EA Licence No: S-365384 +852 9331 8141 property@homesolutions.hk

SALE $5.85M MUI WO FLAT 485’ Net

Exquisite family home in beautiful Cheung Sha gated complex. 3 Beds, 2 Baths. Modern open plan kitchen and light filled dining area which opens onto a large garden.

Generous living room, master bedroom holds plenty of built in storage. Enjoy 360 views from the rooftop. HS Ref: 4001

Gorgeous village house in quiet & serene area of Mui Wo. 5 Beds, 3 Baths. Modern open kitchen/dining area with spacious living area which opens onto a private garden.

Enjoy the rooftop and admire amazing mountain views.

HS Ref: 3992

Light and airy modernised flat. 2 Beds,1 Bath. Open plan kitchen with modern appliances and storage. Conveniently located near the ferry pier, shops and beach. HS Ref: 3882

RENTAL $32K

RENTAL $20K

RENTAL $12K

PUI O VILLAGE HOUSE 1430’ + Rooftop

Attractive renovated village house. 3 Beds, 2 Baths. Stylish open plan kitchen/dining area opening out onto balcony.

Beautiful sea and mountain views can be experienced from the rooftop. HS Ref: 3604

G/F MUI WO SHOP + LOFT 338’ + 234’ Loft

Perfect location for commercial shop is in the heart of Mui Wo centre. Spacious and bright room with additional space on the first floor for office or storeroom. HS Ref: 3820

1/F MUI WO VILLAGE HOUSE 700’ + Balcony

Bright and airy flat, 2 Beds, 1 Bath, Renovated Kitchen.

Master bed w/ensuite. Short bike ride to ferry pier and Mui Wo town. Great flat in a quiet village. HS Ref: 4051

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

C-044849

LISTING ALL FLOORS

YOUR GUIDE TO

HORIZON PLAZA AP LEI CHAU

2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau, 2554 9089 About a 15-minute walk from South Horizon MTR Station Exit C Show this to your taxi driver: 香港鴨脷洲利榮街2號新海怡廣場

26/F CARPET BUYER www.carpetbuyer.com

Asia’s largest rug warehouse stocks 5,000 hand-made rugs. A discount outlet with 50% off fine, tribal, modern and shaggys.

Tel: 2850 5508 Email: sales@carpetbuyer.com

8/F HARBOUR 1976 www.harbouroutdoor.com.au

Scan the barcode for further directions

7/F GARDEN GALLERY www.gardengallery.com.hk

Established in 1996, Garden Gallery specialises in outdoor and landscape supplies, ranging from outdoor furniture and gardening equipment to lighting, storage, tents and all kinds of barbecue stoves.

Tel: 2553 3251 Email: info@gardengallery.com.hk Facebook: Garden Gallery HK

16/F MARC JAMES www.marcjames.com

With over 40 years' experience, Harbour 1976 offers premium indoor and outdoor furniture collections designed to withstand the great outdoors.

The lifestyle brand focuses on unique design, incredible durability, and a deep sense of culture derived from Australia's beautiful coastline.

Tel: 2754 6188 Email: info@harbouroutdoor.com.au

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Mark James provides stylish, modern furniture, lighting, accessories and flooring.

Tel: 2517 2000 Email: info@marcjamesdesign.com

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

G/F Natuzzi Stylish selection of exclusive home furniture G/F Roche Bobois Celebrating the French Art De Vivre around the world 2/F Sonder Living Premium home furnishings and lifestyle products 5/F OvoHome Exquisite custom-made furniture 6/F Indigo Stylish and eclectic furniture 7/F Garden Gallery Quality European outdoor and landscape supplies 7/F MOD High-end furniture and home accessories 8/F Bowerbird Home Thoughtfully curated furniture and homeware 8/F Harbour 1976 Uniquely designed outdoor furniture with incredible durability 8/F Organic Modernism Fine and functional home and office furniture 9/F Barbecue in All Wide range of barbecue and living gear 9/F Everything Under the Sun The latest high-end, quality outdoor furniture 9/F Nook Living Stylish Italian furniture design at competitive prices 10/F Areahome Indoor and decorative items for the home 11/F Flexa Eco-friendly kids’ furniture 11/F Spaceman Space-saving furniture 11/F The Red Cabinet Upscale beautifully finished one-of-akind and contemporary pieces 12/F Infurniti Homes Sophisticated classical furniture with a contemporary twist 12/F Sun Garden Premium Quality outdoor and barbecue supplies 15/F Irony Home Top-grade indoor and outdoor furniture 16/F Marc James Design Stylish furniture, lighting, accessories and flooring

9/F NOOK LIVING www.nookliving.com.hk

Nook Living’s furniture is made in Italy and is ideal for any stylish, modern home.

Tel: 2276 4315/ 2698 0937 Email: info@nookliving.com.hk

11/F THE RED CABINET red-cabinet.com.hk

Phoenix Curtains is a onestop shop for curtains, blinds, custom-made sofas and upholstery. Open daily from 12pm until 5pm.

Tel: 2868 0681/ 2536 0123

Tel: 2866 6691 WhatsApp: 5242 9369

8/F TAKUMI

www.takumi.com.hk

Takumi offers timeless-looking, quality Japanese furniture.

Tel: 2517 2000 Email: info@takumi.com.hk

PHOENIX CURTAINS

The Red Cabinet is a unique furniture store offering one-ofa-kind designs in furniture and decorative accessories, plus bespoke custom-made items.

Email: enquiries@red-cabinet.com.hk

16/F

16/F

ORGANIC MODERNISM www.organicmodernism.com

Organic Modernism is a Brooklyn-based company specialising in nature-inspired pieces made from bronze and American walnut.

Email: info@phoenixcurtains.com.hk

19/F TOYS CLUB www.itoysclub.com

Toys Club provides the trendiest and the hottest toys in Hong Kong.

Tel: 2836 0875 Email: toysclub@hotmail.com

Tel: 2556 9499 Email: horizonplaza@ organicmodernism.com

16/F Patio Mart Quality outdoor lifestyle products at reasonable prices 16/F Phoenix Curtains Fine classic and modern curtains 16/F Takumi Stylish and timeless Japanese furniture and accessories 19/F Toys Club Quality toys for kids of all ages 20/F Fink - The Art of Living Unique decorative items for the home

20/F Oriental Home Chinese, Mongolian and Tibetan antiques and bespoke furniture in different styles 26/F Ad Lib Oriental antiques, vintage Western lights and decorative arts 26/F Carpet Buyer Hand-made fine Persian rugs (old and antique), tribal and village carpets and contemporary designer rugs 26/F PAIDI Kids World Quality eco-friendly children’s furniture and beds

26/F Zzue Creation Outdoor furniture (by international brand names), everything from pool-side furniture to barbecues and party-size pergolas 28/F Tree Sustainable stylish furniture combining contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship and beds

www.arounddb.com December 2018

57

ESCAPES

Hanazano Tube Park

Top 8 things to do in

Niseko

Over 700,000 skiers and snowboarders visit Niseko each season (December through March). Dorothy Veitch finds out why

Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

SKI STRAWBERRY FIELDS Niseko in western Hokkaido has arguably the finest powder not just in Japan but in all of Asia. Another plus is that skiing and boarding offpiste is permitted. In popular offpiste areas, like Strawberry Fields, the trees are widely spaced, but thrill seekers head to the tight trees in Blueberry Fields. There’s also extensive night skiing in Niseko, until 9pm every night.

time skiers, Hirafu is the place to eat and drink, and Annupuri is the quietest of the three. In each, you’ll find holiday apartments, lodges and chalets, plus a couple of luxurious ski-in ski-out hotels.

UNWIND IN AN ONSEN Niseko is well known for its onsen (mineral-rich natural hot springs).

Men and women bathe naked – separately. The public onsen get busy but there are quieter, privately owned baths in each of the villages.

To soak in style, head to the onsen at Hilton Niseko Village, which is open to the public as well as hotel guests.

SETTLE IN One mountain pass gives you access to the slopes surrounding the main ski villages of Annupuri, Niseko Village and Hirafu. Niseko Village is ideal for families and first-

Ski and board off piste

Take time out in an onsen

www.arounddb.com December 2018

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59

ESCAPES

LEARN HOW IT’S DONE Not only is the snow abundant in Niseko, but the flakes have a remarkably low water content meaning the slopes are almost entirely ice free. This is clearly a plus for beginners, who can fall down… and bounce right back up again. There are also many gentle slopes, where first-time skiers and boarders can take lessons and build their confidence.

TREAT YOURSELF Gentle slopes are ideal for first-time skiers

Surrounded as it is by the Sea of Japan, Hokkaido is known for some of the freshest seafood in Japan, and Niseko serves up some great seafood restaurants. Head to Michelin-starred Kamimura in Annupuri for the locally brewed saké and to have Hokkaido crab, scallop and fish grilled right in front of you.

GET YOUR SNOWSHOES ON Another way to get outside Niseko’s gates and into the peaceful backcountry is by taking a snowshoeing tour with Niseko Adventure Centre. Snowshoes distribute your weight over a larger area, which means you can glide over deep snow without sinking. Niseko Adventure Centre provides both day and night-time off-piste tours.

Take a snowshoeing tour

60

Hokkaido crab at Kamimura in Annupuri

GO ICE FISHING

HAVE FUN WITH THE KIDS

At Big Fight Fishing area, a 45-minute drive from Niseko, the ponds are covered with a layer of ice about 50-centimetres thick.

Experienced ice-fishing guides provide all the equipment and set up tents on the ice if temperatures really drop. Keep your line nice and taut and you’ve a good chance of landing a 90-centimetre rainbow trout.

Snowmobiling in Niseko is something you really must experience, as is the unrivalled romance of reindeer sledding.

With the kids in mind, there’s also igloo-making at Niseko Outdoor Centre and snow tubing at Hanazano Tube Park. Many of the guesthouses provide sleds free for guests’ use, or you can pick one up at a convenience store.

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

Discovery Bay Church (Anglican / Episcopal)

Christmas Services in Discovery Bay Church!

Come & Celebrate the Birth of Christ

Sunday 9 December 10am Nine Lessons and Carols Sunday 16 December 4pm Nativity in the Plaza Tuesday 24 December (Christmas Eve) 6pm Christingle and Nativity Play Wednesday 25 December (Christmas Day) 10am Family Eucharist

Wishing you a peaceful and joyous Christmas Discovery Bay Church (Anglican / Episcopal) Email: markrogers@discoverybaychurch.org.hk Daughter Church of St.John's Cathedral Web: www.discoverybaychurch.org.hk SKH Wei Lun Primary School, Priest in Charge: Discovery Bay Road The Reverend Mark Rogers 10:00am (English) Sunday Tel: 2987 4210 Mob: 5180 5106

Church of The Incarnation Sunday Services at SKH Wei Lun Primary School Chapel 10:30am Sunday Contact The Church Office 2987 0723

ISLAND LIFE

READY TO UP YOUR GAME IN DECEMBER?

H

k n ow o t d e e n u o y t er e’ s wh a

RIGHT NOW

In this issue's ISLAND LIFE you will find Entrepreneurial advice Arati Limbu & Anuradha Limbu Chettri of Baby Basics

Xmas tips from local experts Kavita Mathur of Red Velvet Sunny Sahni of A Tavola Bar & Grill Joan Szeto of Toys Club



www.arounddb.com December 2018

63

ISLAND LIFE

DB

Photo courtesy of Anuradha Limbu Chettri Photo by Andrew Spires

B

64

Entrepreneurs of the Month Arati Limbu and Anuradha Limbu Chettri of Baby Basics

aby Basics is a one-stop shop for parents and parents-to-be. We cofounded the business this year because we wanted to fill the gap in the market. We bring the best international child-related products, covering everything from maternity products to baby essentials and toys for kids up to four years.

Our business is a success because our team has a passion for delivering practical solutions for our customers. We use our experience and knowledge about the industry to give the best possible service and provide support for parents on their journey. We are more than just a retail business, we are a family. Parents can talk about their problems and share solutions in a welcoming environment. We pride ourselves on giving value-added services. The greatest challenge we face is to remain focused to meet our goals whenever we face challenges and obstacles. However, we always try to look at problems as jigsaw puzzles. There is always a solution, so we try different approaches until we find the right fit that will work for everyone. To succeed in business, you need to have a vision, believe in it and do whatever it takes to fulfil that. If you love what you are doing and do everything with passion, you will be able to succeed in all aspects. Our advice for someone looking to start up a business is to believe in your concept and keep on looking for solutions and different ways to improve it. Find and make a team where the support is mutual and everyone believes in what you are doing. Our greatest achievement is to have put up Baby Basics together.

It all started as an idea and we vowed to do whatever it took to see this project through. We did all the background work, pitched our idea to investors and recruited the staff. Our plan for the future is to keep going and keep improving, and to find new ways to cater to our customers’ needs. We are continuously working towards achieving more customer engagement in order to establish a community. When hiring staff, we always ensure that they share the same passion as we do. In this case, we’ve seen to it that all the members of our team are enthusiastic about helping customers. We’ve also made sure that everyone has previous experience in this line of work so they are very professional and well-informed about the products. The entrepreneur we admire the most is Jack Ma because he is a self-made man. We applaud his determination. He always aimed high, he never gave up on his dreams and he continues to improve himself and his works. Our personal motto is ‘Success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.’

FIND IT

CONTACT •

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

Unit 01-03, 7/F Lansing House, 41-47 Queen’s Road Central, 2898 8995, www.babybasicshk.com

HOW TO READY YOUR HOME FOR THE

H OL I D A Y S

Kavita Mathur of Red Velvet advises Katrina Mercado on decorating trends for Christmas 2018

I

f you’re into home fashion, it’s time to take your cue from Elvis Presley and prepare for a Blue Christmas. “The fashionable colours for Xmas 2018 are purple, blue and grey,” according to Kavita Mathur of Red Velvet. “Add hints of copper, brass and platinum to achieve a jazzy and glamorous feel.

“For a more traditional look, the colour red rules – from the tablecloth to the candles, to the glass decorations and even the ribbons,” Kavita continues.

“Red spiced up with gold is a classic combination.”

Photos courtesy of Red Velvet

When decorating, Kavita recommends taking your chosen colour scheme throughout the home – having a whole-home concept will maximise the impact. “Style up your home from the wreath on your entrance door to the Christmas tree in your living room and on into the dining room, matching your decorative centrepieces and table linens,” she says.

Of course, colour isn’t the only way to introduce a little Christmas magic, and Kavita points out that movie-based themes are a creative way to decorate your space.

Parents with little ones around might look to a modern Disney flick, like Frozen, or a classic from their own childhood, like Fantasia.

For expat families who find themselves a long way from ‘home’ this Christmas, Kavita has

another hot tip. “Select a theme based on the region you come from,” she says. “Enjoy a winter wonderland setting or a hot beach-and-surf theme!”

DIY decorating is also big this Christmas, and Kavita cites wine bottles and mason jars as the most handy, reusable items in the house.

“Spray paint a few different sized jars or bottles in colours to match your Christmas colour scheme and cluster them together. You can use them as vases, or even as lanterns if you fill them with candles or fairy lights.”

Another item that Kavita suggests we put to good reuse is ribbon.

“Use ribbons to make bows for your Christmas tree or for your flatware,” she says. “And this Christmas, use ribbons to tie gifts for your loved ones, as it adds a lot more affection and warmth.”

HOLIDAY ESSENTIALS •

Fresh greenery and flowers

•

Scented candles and fairy lights

•

Luxuriant drapes, throws and pillows

•

High spirits, holiday music and a fully stocked bar

CONTACT •

Red Velvet Discovery Bay - online store Facebook page

www.arounddb.com December 2018

 Hannah Olsen

65

ISLAND LIFE

EAT OUT

WHY YOU NEED TO

THIS XMAS

Sunny Sahni, owner of A Tavola Bar & Grill, explains how a good restaurant can help take the hassle out of the holidays

“H

ave the holiday celebrations become more of a chore than an actual family get-together where everyone is having a great time?” Sunny Sahni of A Tavola Bar & Grill asks in horror. He ponders this Grinch-like theory for a while, before coming up with a straightforward solution… “You know families always have the option to celebrate in restaurants!

Photo courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

“A good restaurant will take care of everything to ensure a hassle-free celebration,” Sunny continues. “Instead of having to do the groceries and worry about meal preparation, diners can enjoy a number of perks should they choose to eat and celebrate out.

There’s no need for arrangements or cleaning or worrying about who is doing what. All you need to do is make a booking, sit back, relax and have a good time.”

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Over the Christmas and New Year break, families and friends get together to bond, relax and reconnect, and all too often hours spent in the kitchen preparing meals and washing up after them can seem like time wasted. “Eating out in a restaurant is a good alternative because it gives people the chance to spend uninterrupted quality time together,” Sunny says.

“Adults get to catch up, while kids can enjoy special themed games and activities.

“If you’re apprehensive because you might not get to enjoy all of all your favourite dishes, don’t be,” Sunny adds. “Many restaurants serve a number of different traditional dishes so everyone gets a sense of home. This can be anything from turkey and all the trimmings to baked pasta or a feast of curries. And you can usually take your pick between various special menus, sets and promotions.”

Should you need more convincing, consider that restaurants typically go all out with fun seasonal

CONTACT

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

•

decorations that get the festive vibe going and help ensure everyone has a great time.

“At the end of the day, we want to help fill families’ days with good food, good service and good company,” Sunny concludes. “A number of families can now be seen out and about on Christmas and New Year’s giving the community a livelier and happier mood to go with the season.

We restaurateurs aim to provide people with an avenue to create beautiful memories.”

Shops E & F, G/F Seaview Crescent Plaza, Tung Chung Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, 2321 5500, www.atavola.hk

J 30

years

JHAVERI House of Diamonds

DISCOVERY BAY ’S TRUSTED JEWELLERS SINCE 1987 Email: jhaveri1987@outlook.com Tel: 9011 1319

BESPOKE JEWELLERY

R ESTORATION

V ALUATIONS

ISLAND LIFE

GIFT IDEAS FOR NEWBORNS

(that will also make mum happy)

Joan Szeto, owner of Toys Club, advises Katrina Mercado what to buy for baby’s first Christmas

D

id 2018 bring with it a new bundle of joy?

Perhaps you know someone who has just welcomed a little one into the world? Are you asking yourself, What should I gift a newborn?

What are some gifts that both mum and baby will enjoy?

“People get super excited about baby’s first Christmas and always want to buy a very special gift,” Toys Club owner Joan Szeto opens. “Oftentimes, they want to buy something big to show their love and affection, which is lovely. But it’s important to be practical. Since you spend a lot of money on these gifts, you’ll want to make sure that they last longer than just a few months.

“Popular gifts that ‘grow’ with baby include tiny soft toys that he can hug all day and all night; big mobile toys that can be hung on a stroller, car seat or crib, and activity-based/ educational toys.

Photo courtesy of Toys Club

The best toys adapt as baby grows,” Joan continues.

“For instance, the VTech Grow and Go Ride-on, which transforms from rocker to ride-

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

•

on. Equipped with an LED display that flashes up letters, numbers and animations to reinforce learning, it’s designed to introduce the alphabet, colours, shapes and numbers through fun phrases, silly sound effects and melodies.”

The best, most thoughtful gifts are always the ones that come from the heart, and with this in mind, you might choose to put together a selection of items that baby (and mum) can use and enjoy every day. Fill a pint-sized Xmas hamper with bibs, pacifiers, teethers, rattles, even toiletries and wet wipes. Alternatively, you can stick with tradition and gift baby a beautiful fluffy blanket and a couple of board books.

“Finding that special something to take the new arrival from birth and beyond is no easy task, so decide whether you want to gift practical staples, educational toys or items that they will treasure forever,” says Joan.

“Baby will look back at the photos of his first Christmas and he’s sure to look adorable, which is actually all that matters!”

5/F On Hing Building, 1 On Hing Terrace, Central, 2167 8474, www.itoysclub.com

Ns cEo v eWr y B a y

in Di

YOGA & AERIAL YOGA STUDIO OPEN EVERYDAY

$500 2 WEEKS UNLIMITED CLASSES Vinyasa Hatha Yin Yoga Power Flow Body Sculpt Yoga Therapy Meditative Flow Aerial Yoga Kids Yoga Kids Aerial

Back by popular demand

Gillian ~ The Skin Therapy Centre

Holistic Beauty & Wellness in Discovery Bay UK trained and International Spa Trainer/ Therapist

• FACIALS - Guinot { France } and Dr Organics.

• CACI - Non Surgical Face lift- Firming,lifting&Collagen boosting.

• AROMATHERAPY - To Soothe,Relax and Revive the 5 Senses.

• GLYCOLIC - Peels and pigmentation treatments.

• ENERGY HEALING - Both PRANIC HEALING and REIKI [to restore the balance & De- stress].

• NLP - Neuro Linguistic programming and Coaching available. www.theskintherapycentrehk.com www.gillianelsworth.com

Please contact: 6022 4190

Nativity in the Plaza “Peace On Earth -

KINGSK FOR BOTO YOGABAY.H

PLEASE VISI AND OFFERS HEDULE, EVENTS S SC

CHECK OUR CLAS

For information please contact us

Email: namaste@yogabay.hk Phone: 6704 9851 Studio address: Unit 10, LG, Block 2, North Plaza

Sunday, December 16, 2018 DB Plaza 4:00pm - 6:00pm Brought to you by:

Goodwill To All”

Discovery Bay Chuch

For more information, please contact 2987-4210 or 2987-7610

Church of the Incarnation

Discovery Bay International Community Church

***This Christmas we would like to encourage all friends and residents of DB to show the true Christmas Spirit and support World Vision - Indonesia Earthquake & Tsunami Relief Please visit https://www.worldvision.org.hk/en/our-work/indonesia-earthquake- and-tsunami-relief for donation information ***

HK HAPPENINGS

FATHER CHRISTMAS

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai November 29-December 1

www.aba-productions.com

Join Father Christmas as he gets ready for his busiest day of the year – Christmas Eve. Watch as he prepares gift deliveries, feeds his reindeers and finally flies off into the snowy night.

This merry and heart-warming adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ classic tale features live music, singing and puppetry. For tickets, starting at HK$285, visit premier.hkticketing.com.

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH! Like the Around DB Facebook page for event reminders

WINTERFEST

CHRISTMAS PANTO

Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wanchai

Across Hong Kong December 1-January 1

November 30-December 2 & 6-9

www.pinterest.com fb.me/hongkongplayers

The Hong Kong Players is back for its 57th year staging Christmas pantos in the city. See the group’s re-imagining of the classic tale Snow White, with a totally original script packed with jokes for all ages. Follow Snow White, the seven dwarves and a dance-crazy prince as they go on a quest for justice against an evil queen. For tickets, at HK$220, visit ticket.urbtix.hk.

GERONIMO STILTON, LIVE IN THE KINGDOM OF FANTASY

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai

Hong Kong Winterfest offers up a number of holiday specials including festive menus, events, shopping and more. Watch the winter edition of multimedia and light and sound show A Symphony of Lights at the Statue Square Christmas Tree.

For more information, visit www.discoverhongkong.com.

LONGINES HONG KONG Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin

December 9

December 1-2

Photo courtesy of MEI LIVE

In this live, multi-media ‘fab-umouse’ adventure, based on the bestselling book series The Kingdom of Fantasy, Geronimo Stilton sets off on a fantastical quest to save the Queen of the Fairies. He walks through seven doors that transport him to different kingdoms, battling witches, mermaids, dragons and pixies to save the day. For tickets, starting at HK$295, visit premier.hkticketing.com.

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December 2018 www.arounddb.com

racingnews.hkjc.com

A top attraction in world racing, the Longines Hong Kong International Races sees horses and jockeys from every continent competing for HK$93 million in prize money, which is divided between the four main races: Cup, Mile, Sprint and Vase. For more information, visit www.hkjc.com.

PRESTIGE CHRISTMAS GIFT FESTIVAL Conrad Hotel, Admiralty

December 11

www.prestigefairs.hk

Get your last-minute gifts and stocking fillers at the last Prestige Fair of the holiday season. Find everything you could need for the big day under one roof, from jewellery and holiday decorations to treats for kids and delicious festive food. After a day of shopping, enjoy a 20% discount at the hotel’s select coffee shops and restaurants.

Visit www.prestigefairs.hk.

Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com

THE NUTCRACKER

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui December 14-16, 19-23, 25-26

CREAMFIELDS

AsiaWorld-Expo, Chek Lap Kok December 15-16

www.capitalfm.com

Creamfields, the iconic dance music festival series, is back for its second year, showcasing superstar DJs and artists from the worlds of EDM, house, trance, D&B, grime and more. Alongside the on-point line-up, you can expect epic stage production, visuals, light shows and pyrotechnics.

Headliners include Alesso, Armin Van Buuren and Diplo. For tickets, starting at HK$917, visit www.universe.com.

HONG KONG FOOD FESTIVAL

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai December 22-26

www.hkballet.com

Follow little Clara’s journey up the Christmas tree as snowflakes swirl, flowers dance and the heroic Nutcracker battles the wicked Rat King to reunite with his love, the Ballerina. There’s no better way to embrace the magic of the holiday season than through this timeless classic presented by Hong Kong Ballet. For tickets, starting at HK$180, visit ticket.urbtix.hk.

NEW YEAR COUNTDOWN Victoria Harbour

December 31

aircrewlifestyle.es

Celebrating food and wine from around the world, with a special focus on South East Asia, the Hong Kong Food Festival attracts top local and international chefs. Enjoy food and wine tastings, cooking demonstrations and shopping opportunities in a fun atmosphere. To know more, visit food-expo.com.hk.

newyearsevehongkong2019.blogspot.com

Ready to ring in 2019? Catch the stunning fireworks and pyrotechnics show that lights up Victoria Harbour as the clock strikes midnight. Prime spots from which to view the display include Central Harbourfront and Tsim Sha Tsui Pier.

For more information, visit www.discoverhongkong.com. www.arounddb.com December 2018

71

DB FACES

Snaps

COMMUNITY

Photos by Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

Who do you know?

Find more familiar DB faces @ www.arounddb.com

Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar!

T

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

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

Good luck!

Congratulations to last month’s winner: Raymond Ip (@foto_ray.kc.ip) www.arounddb.com December 2018

73

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10am CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH & TEENS

Alcoholics Anonymous

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

If you want to stop, we can help.

Alcoholics No dues or fees.

Anonymous

24hr hotline:9073 6922 www.aa-hk.org

Church Office: 2987 7061 www.dbicc.org

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

For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or Baguio 6776 8400 Email: baguiowong@hotmail.com Xmas Promo: up to 35% off PEUGEOT OPEN EUROPE SINCE 1997

Read

HOLIDAYS BY CAR

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

Best duty-free Car Rental in Europe!

- for short & long durations info@eurocardrives.com www.eurocardrives.com

online All the latest community news. www.arounddb.com

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com EMPLOYMENT

HOME SERVICES

DELIVERY PERSON/ MESSENGER

AKASH MOVING & HANDYMAN SERVICES

Michael, a HK resident, is available to deliver documents & small parcels around HK. Available full- or part-time.

Call 9145 6731 to leave a message

KINDERGARTEN TEACHER Seeking a native Tagalog-speaking, qualified kindergarten teacher with musical knowledge, singing experience & at least five years of teaching experience. Full-time position. Send your CV & covering letter to tagalogdb@gmail.com

HEALTH & WELLBEING

VR, HYPNOSIS: INDIVIDUAL &/ OR COUPLES THERAPY Virtual reality programmes for PTSD, addictions, phobias (fear of flying/ public speaking/ bridges/ enclosed spaces/ storms). * Couples’ conflicts * Overeating * Career/relationship stress * Anger management * Nail biting * Exam jitters Divorce/ post-divorce/ career coaching.

Quit smoking quickly.

• Packing, moving & storage service • Interior painting & patch-up work • Appliance installation • Hanging pictures & mirrors • Blinds, curtains & shelves installation • Lights & ceiling fan installation • LCD TV mounting & switch replacement

Professional beauty services provided in DB by a qualified, internationally certified beauty therapist with over 20 years' experience. Treatments include facials, CACI (non-surgical facelifts), glycolic (peals & pigmentation treatments), energy healing & more.

Contact Gillian on 6022 4190

Yoga Therapy Class for Senior Citizens

Tuesday mornings 11:30am at DB North Plaza.

Slow and gentle yoga, taught by a qualified yoga instructor.

English-speaking and easily accessible from Sunny Bay MTR station.

9685 8366 www.g reenwi ch- v i nyas a.com.hk

TUITION & COURSES

ENGLISH TUTOR/TEACHER

FLAT PAINTING & HANDYMAN WORK

• Painting & handyman work, interior & exterior • PU waterproof injection for external walls • Astro-turfing, tiling & electrics Contact Roger at 9156 0360, drscompanyhk@gmail.com

Contact 2421 8088, info@akash.hk, www.akash.hk

• BA degree in English from a US university • Over 10 years’ teaching & tutoring experience • Flexible schedule & reasonable rates • Based in DB Children, teens & adults at all levels of fluency

• Learn to understand, speak & write English well • Gain confidence & a wider vocabulary • Write better essays & improve schoolwork

Call, text or WhatsApp Charles on 9406 8342

TRIMCO HONG KONG FTC RELOCATIONS

• Local & international moves • Long/ short-term storage • Handyman services • World-class service – competitive rates Operating on DB & Lantau.

Contact 2814 1658, sales@ftc.hk, www.ftc.hk

• Painting • Decorating • Renovation • Cladding Steve Donovan Contact 6149 0894, trimcohk@gmail.com

SPORTS

Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical Psychologist, Hypnotherapist.

Contact 2575 7707, www.mindmatters.hk

THE SKIN THERAPY CENTRE

HOME SERVICES

LEARN SPANISH Native speake • Experienced teacher & DELE examiner • IB, IGCSE, A-levels & HKDSE • Business Spanish & courses for adults • Flexible schedule & locations • Special offers for students who live in DB & Tung Chung Contact Erik at 9666 9511, rerikm@hotmail.com

MATHEMAGIC IS AT DB PLAZA

DEADLINE FOR JANUARY ISSUE CLASSIFIEDS DECEMBER 15

PRIVATE MARTIAL ARTS COACHING

Well known in the Hong Kong MMA community, Marc Guyon guides you through your journey to become a martial artist. As a former whitecollar-turned-professional fighter, Marc’s understanding of looking for peak performance in all your occupations & activities is like nothing in Hong Kong.

Contact 9303 2996, marcguyonkungfu@gmail.com. www.marcguyon.com

Support classes in mathematics and sciences now available for: • Year 7 to Year 13 • IGCSE • IB (SL or HL) • A level (Standard & Further Modules) • SATs/ PSATs/ LSATs • UKCEE Home tuition available as well as online classes.

Call/ WhatsApp Karim Arditi on 91354724. Contact MathemagicMD@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/HLmathemagic, www.hlmathemagic.com

Find short-term rentals @ www.arounddb.com DB PROPERTY FOR RENT LUXURY APARTMENTS IN SIENA 2, DB

Spacious 600 square-foot apartments – quiet with sea views over park, near Club Siena & DB Tunnel. Fully furnished with washer/ drier, bed linen, kitchenware, 55” TVs, wi-fi, blu-ray home theatre. Contact the owner on 9317 0624, nialady2011@gmail.com

FULLY FURNISHED DB 1-BED

Smart apartment on a high floor with sea view. Close to pier & DB Plaza. Available fully furnished. Call Tiareti on 9732 8985

OVERSEAS PROPERTY

HAWKS NEST THAILAND FOR RENT Fully equipped 2-bedroom villa for rent, including rooftop patio with outdoor kitchen, Jacuzzi, pool & internet. Situated just south of Hua Hin, with optional Bangkok pick-up. Contact villa@hawksnestthailand.com, or visit www.hawksnestthailand.com

If you are looking to rent or sell a property and would like to see it listed on this page or at www.facebook.com/arounddb, email patricia@baymedia.com.hk

CLOT HING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel

2428 2566 FOOD, RES TAUR A N T S & BA RS

A Tavola Bar & Grill Airport Izakaya Andante Café Aficionado China Coast Bar & Grill Curry Lounge Dosirak House Essence Restaurant - Novotel Citygate Federal Palace Restaurant Kimos Mansarover Indian Cuisine McDonald’s Delivery Melody Thai Moccato Coffee Shop My Thai Olea Restaurant - Novotel Citygate PizzaExpress Pizza Hut Delivery Regala Café & Dessert Bar Resto Restaurant Rouge - Regal Airport Hotel Skycity Bistro Tung Chung Pizza Zentro Garden

2321 5500 2286 6668 3602 8828 2286 6238 2286 6898 2960 1977 3520 0848 3602 8808 2626 0181 2886 3646 2109 1927 2338 2338 2988 8129 3602 8838 2907 6918 3602 8818 2297 3588 2330 0000 2286 6618 2886 3156 2286 6868 3969 2500 2466 1010 2802 8000

HE A LT H & W EL L BEING

Bayside Dental Bon’s Mobile Pet Grooming Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre North Lantau Physiotherapy Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung Chung Vet Centre Tung Chung Maternal & Child Health Centre Quality Health Dental Quality Health Medical Raffles Medical Rainbow Voice and Soundhealing

2185 6550 9099 9959 2109 9396 2109 2288 2194 0020 2988 1534 2328 7282 3575 8370 2403 6613 2403 6623 2261 2626 5178 5658

SOUTH LANTAU

TUNG CHUNG

LANTAU NUMBERS FOOD, RES TAUR A N T S & BA RS

Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bathers Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) Cafe Isara China Bear Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar Kebab Korner La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Le Jardin de Sophie Long Island Mucho Gusto Robert’s Market Stoep @ High Tide Restaurant The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Water Buffalo HE A LT H, FI T NESS A ND W EL L BEING

Pause by the Banyan - health ∙ wellness South Lantau Paddle Club Thai Palin Massage Thai Sa Baai Tony’s Salon Treasure Island Findley Leung Group Koon Wah Hardware Lee Wo Construction Engineering Man Shun Construction & Engineering New Look Design

3969 1888 3602 8888 2286 8888

L E A RNING CEN T RES

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

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

SOCI A L , SP OR T S & EQUIPMEN T

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

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

HOT EL S

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383

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

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

PROPER T Y AGENCIES

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

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RE TA IL

Friendly Bike Shop Greenstyle Organic & Healthcare INSIDE Island Wines Lantau Base Camp Lantau Grocer Quay House Red Hall Chinese Antiques Value Vigilantes ZenvarA

2984 2278 9802 0553 2890 8606 9521 8481 2983 8428 2702 0050 2882 8710 2988 1368 6132 9120 9586 3459

SERV ICES & OT HERS

Jumping Castles SPCA Miriam Safadi Photography Parteezi Phoenix Wills

9662 1747 2984 0060 5145 0227 6112 9842 6108 8471 T R A NSP OR TAT ION

U T IL I T Y, SERV ICES & E MERGENC Y HOT L INES

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

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 9783 5840

L E A RNING CEN T RES

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488

HOT EL S

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

9708 0187 9688 9112 9062 0148 5228 6552 2984 0990 2546 3543

HOME & REPA IRS

HOME & REPA IRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2984 0222 2504 4788 2984 0498 2470 1966 2984 9720 3484 3095 6429 3507 2984 8933 5465 5511 2997 9070 2320 2001 6422 5009 9193 2937 2980 2699 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2109 3331

2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1999

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

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

DB NUMBERS

Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza BMSE, North Plaza DB Alliance Church Community Centre DB Anglican Church DB International Community Church Discovery Bay Medical Centre Health & Care Dental Clinic Herbal Health Care Island Health Island Veterinary Services The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council, North Plaza Trinity Chapel

2987 2259 2987 2987 2987 2987 2666 2834 2987 2987 2259 2987

0855 3422 8136 4210 7061 5633 6183 7276 7575 9003 3422 9909

Future Stars Dance Academy Dance classes based on the ISTD requirements conducted in a fun, disciplined & safe environment. Contact 2987 6867, melissa@futurestars danceacademy.com, Futurestars Dance Academy Hong Kong Facebook page, Instagram: FuturestarsHk

Island Dance ISTD Freestyle, ISTD Hip Hop, RAD Ballet, tap & Bollywood classes at DBRC, Club Siena & DB Plaza. Five professional instructors, teaching six days a week.

Contact 2987 1571, 9159 0663, info@islanddance.com.hk, www.islanddance.com.hk

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Action X, North Plaza Nomadic

3102 2977 2987 8460

PapyrusEDU A family friendly center. Children’s programmes: 3D Modeling & Printing, LEGO Education Afterschool, Junior Food Art.Lifestyle morning programmes: Decoupage, Porcelart, Food Artist.

Contact 6360 1715, info@papyrusedu.com, www.papyrusedu.com.

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

2987 2987 2448 2987 2947 2366

4401 7486 1180 4089 9092 6534

The Beat Dance & Fitness Studio BODYPUMP, BODYBALANCE, GRIT, BODYSTEP & Zumba (fitness, toning & kids). Piloxing, yoga & Pilates, plus Latin, Irish, belly & wedding dance. Classes for adults & children, & personal training.

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

FINANCIAL SERVICES

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

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

Tree of Joy A fun, engaging & supportive environment in which children play & learn. Programmes include drop-off nursery class, parent-toddler class, afternoon camp & a cooking class Contact 9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com

The Stephen Putnam Practice Private Client Wealth Management.

Contact 2914 0388, www.sjpp.asia/tspp

Bank of China HSBC

2160 8585 2233 3000

HOME d-clutter DRS Company Good Luck Engineering Hoi Yu Transportation Hung Kee Co Japan Home Centre May’s furniture & curtain design Rapee-living Rich Point Hardware Materials Tactful Design & Build Tai Fat Hardware Store Wing On Department Store Yours Electrical Centre

78

MULTIMEDIA

LEARNING CENTRES

COMMUNITY & HEALTH

6323 9156 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987 2886 2987 2987 2987

1417 0360 1313 4488 5087 1041 0222 7082 0789 8555 0789 9268 4428

Bayview House of Children DB International School (Kindergarten) DB International School (Pri / Sec) Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori Academy, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza DMR School of Ballet Dr. Bear Education Centre Early Adventures Playgroup Epic Adventurers Eye Level Education Learning Centre Funfit HK International Learning Academy, North Plaza Kumon, North Plaza L’Ecole Française de Discovery, North Plaza Links Parenting, North Plaza Little Explorers English For Kids Mandarin for Munchkins, North Plaza Mathemagic – home tutoring Mathnasium SKH Wei Lun Primary School Treasure House Zhi Zhi Chinese

December 2018 www.arounddb.com

6114 2914 2987 3969 2987 2987 2914 2812 2987 2987 6762 2987 2441 9366 6302 2416 2459 8191 6114 9327 2480 9135 2628 2987 2987 9648

2436 2142 7331 1000 8088 8088 2202 9206 1201 4338 6264 9644 0098 0000 6327 3198 8808 0813 2436 0507 3909 4724 3362 8608 4217 2966

Bookazine Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd

2987 1373 2914 2378

OTHER SERVICES

Harvey Law Group International law firm offering a wide range of commercial & personal legal services. Meeting facilities available in DB. Contact 2416 8618, dboffice@harveylawcorporation.com, www.harveylawcorporation.com DB Party Time Gillian florist, North Plaza P-Solution Pen’n Paper The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

9502 2529 2987 2987 2987 2987

2381 8256 1777 8898 1368 5151

6201 2987 2987 5721

7749 8873 0428 6181

PETS Kristy’s Paradise - Cat Sitter in Discovery Bay Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery Ready, Pet, Go!

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS Centaline Property Agency EPS Property Consultants Headland Homes Kingsland DB Land Master Property

2987 2987 2987 2987 2987

8484 2023 2088 2987 6238

FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Café Bord de Mer & Lounge, North Plaza Café Duvet Caffe Pascucci Cali-Mex, North Plaza Coyote Mexican Cantina Ebeneezer’s Epic Foods, North Plaza Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant Gilmore’s by the Golden Pig Hemingway’s il Bel Paese Island Café Koh Tomyums La Creation & Châteraisé McSorley’s Ale House Mirch Masala, North Plaza Moofish, North Plaza Pacific Coffee Paisano’s, North Plaza Peony Chinese Restaurant PizzaExpress Solera Subway The Pier Bar TigerLily Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zak’s

2987 2298 2295 8288 2295 8299 2987 0966 2591 1426 2904 7698 2987 2848 2987 0036 2172 6111 2987 2915 2987 9123 2662 9168 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2987 0767 2987 1829 2987 8280 2987 1337 2987 6318 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2465 2426 2555 0772 2914 0005 2520 2166 2997 8688 2840 1188 2987 6232

DB NUMBERS SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

Action X, North Plaza Club Siena DBees Ice Hockey DB Pirates Rugby, Netball, Hockey & Dragonboat Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club Embody EpicLand FIT 852 Greenwich Kapuhala Train-in-Space MAS FIT MGK Fight Club Nutrition and Fitness with Emilie YogaBay YogaUp

2911 2987 6473 9255 2987 2987 2987 6624 2441 9680 9685 6101 9387 9303 6385 6704 8197

4833 7382 4277 6133 9591 7273 7381 8712 0098 7665 8366 8434 0735 2996 5425 9851 5591

24-hour Customer Service Hotline China Light & Power Emergency China Light & Power Information Line Discovery Bay Commercial Services Discovery Bay Fire & Ambulance Discovery Bay Lost & Found Discovery Bay Management Discovery Bay Office Centre Discovery Bay Post Office Gas Leakage Emergency Hotline Lantau North Report Room North Lantau Hospital San Hing Gas Co Typhoon Signal Enquiries Water Fault Reports Water Supplies Department

3651 2728 2678 2987 2987 3651 2238 2238 2987 2435 3661 3467 2987 2835 2811 2824

2345 8333 2678 4242 7502 2345 3601 3388 6046 4511 1694 7000 6738 1473 0788 5000

WELLBEING

ay Spa

VIEW THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY @ www.arounddb.com

Massage, facial & nail Contact 9837 0969 (Tel/ whatsapp) Block A, DB Plaza

TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES Bo Bo House Toysland

2987 4230 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES DB Golf Cart Services DB Transportation Services Limousine Rental Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services

2914 2987 5303 2987 2987

2727 7351 3489 0208 9368

DB Pure Spa Beauty begins within. Open 9am to 9pm at DB Plaza, for ladies only.

Body massages available for HK$198 and up. Contact 9794 0918, DB Pure Spa Facebook page

Elly House of Beauty Highly skilled skincare specialist committed to providing the most effective skincare services to the DB community. Contact 6131 9039, Elly House of Beauty Facebook Page, www.ellyhouseofbeauty.com

Ingredients of Wellness

To add your own directory listing box, call the Bay Media office on 2987 0577, or email info@baymedia.com.hk

Mindfulness training. Teaching young people skills to direct attention, be calmer & concentrate better. Contact 9048 5425, angie@ingredientsofwellness.com, www.ingredientsofwellness.com

Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Freedas Maximum Care Nest Care, North Plaza Salon De Coiffure

2987 2987 2987 2499 2987

0283 4555 2060 8826 4112

www.arounddb.com

www.arounddb.com December 2018

79

OUT THERE

I

worked in personal development seminars. One of our exercises was called ‘giver/ taker.’ After three days, each person was voted by the other 59 participants on whether they were a giver or a taker in life. It was remarkably accurate. I was voted high on the ‘giver’ scale.

That gives me no bragging rights whatsoever and does not make me special or angelic. It means simply that in order to provide my shabby existence with the illusion of meaning, I need to give a bit.

In his short speech accepting the Mark Twain Award, former Late Show host David Letterman said, “I know only two things for certain: If you pull a hair from your nose you will sneeze, and if you give to people and animals, you will feel better.” So, when Christmas comes around, as it does every November, I tire quickly of ‘a time of giving.’ I go, “Right, and?”

Pa rum pum pum pum

Illustration courtesy of www.vecteezy.com

What drives me crazy is the brainwashed version of giving – every Christmas, we give a miscellany of tasteless trappings to people who, as often as not, don’t need or want them. Then there’s the wonton slaughter of turkeys. As if they don’t cop a hard enough time at Thanksgiving (though American birds might welcome a quick beheading after life in Trumpland).

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Of course, Santa is as far removed from Jesus’ birthday as the tooth fairy. All of it is lost in the infuriating repetition of syrupy music, most of which is also as far away from the original message as an iPhone for your nearest and dearest – along

WHERE’S THE GRINCH?

Meaningless gifting, turkey slaughter, rabid drinking and the wanton destruction of trees. Please someone, steal Christmas, says Peter Sherwood with a tacky HK$50 card with the cornball message starring a snowman.

When a religious celebration becomes a year-round megaindustrial event, maybe it’s time to switch off the cutesy Christmas lights and think again.

Like everyone else I am always shoved into the cogs of Xmas machinery early on, to be churned around with mindless and irrelevant customs that continue until I collapse exhausted at 8pm on New Year’s Eve. Instead of consuming truckloads of booze in under a week, how about rationing it over 12 months? And Christmas trees! Don’t start me. Instead of watching the forlorn things go brown and then chucking them in a dumpster, how about we send

the kids out to plant a few instead?

One year I decided to celebrate the event on July 25. It worked out well. I was the only one who knew so there were no gifts to buy or turkeys to murder. Noting it was a Tuesday, I poured myself a half decent glass of Port and went to bed.

The problem is that Christmas, my birthday and New Year’s sort of collide in an alcoholic stupor. I might as well be acknowledging the Baby Jumping Festival in Spain, or France’s Festival of the Pig. Basically, I yearn to disappear into some neutral universe until it all goes away. But it never does, and

by January 31 we are implored to reserve a table for that celebratory Christmas Eve dinner. Because it’s only 334 days till Xmas.

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 19 years. The former head of an international public relations firm, Peter is the author of 15 books and has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

Find more from Peter @ www.arounddb.com December 2018 www.arounddb.com

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