Around DB January Issue 2018

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

JANUARY 2018

The case for SUPPLEMENTS (it’s time to start pill popping!)

To board, or not to board, we answer the question

How a personal trainer can get you from

flab to fit

Making the most of

ANNUAL LEAVE in 2018

ACTIVISM

DBIS teachers paddling for change!

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

FREE

Our unique plans provide customised cover designed specifically for pilots, cabin crew and their dependants, whether expatriate or local.

ALC Health has a long association with the aviation industry internationally.

An expert team with unparalleled aviation knowledge and a Chief Medical Officer specialising in aeronautical medicine.

Remarkable choice

Premium cover

First class service

Competitive premiums for pilots, including dependants, and generous discounts for a policy excess. You can apply eligible claims from your local policy to use up your policy excess. We don’t believe in age limits so your plan is portable over your lifetime!

We cover pre-existing medical conditions (subject to satisfactory completion of two simple questions), chronic conditions, cancer, complementary medicine, HIV/AIDS treatment, optical, vaccinations, wellness and preventative tests.

We pride ourselves on our clear and helpful customer service and 24/7 international medical helpline. We welcome each member on board with an ALC membership pack, membership of the Blood Care Foundation and access to ALC World.

Ready to check in?

Find out more about Flying Colours at alchealth.com/flyingcolours or call us on +852 3478 3751 for a tailored quote that meets your needs.

ALC Health (Hong Kong) Ltd Level 17, China Building , 29 Queen’s Road Central, Central UK office: +44 (0) 1903 817 970 • Spanish office: +34 952 93 16 09 • Gibraltar office: +350 200 77731

ALC Health is a trading style of à la carte healthcare ltd. Registered in England no 4163178. Registered Office: Chanctonfold Barn, Chanctonfold, Horsham Road, Steyning, West Sussex, BN44 3AA, United Kingdom. à la carte healthcare ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). à la carte healthcare ltd is part of the IMG Group of Companies.

RENTALS/SALES

康慧台 HILLGROVE 0

Gross: 472’ Saleable: 398’

15.5K

Cosy apartment with lots of natural light. Balcony with nice views. Very close to DB plaza and pier.

1

2

3

40K

Beautifully renovated duplex with stunning sea views. Walking distance to DB plaza and pier.

2

N

T

IO AT LU A V T NK EN BA D AG W A LO LE

L

SO

Gross: 1202’ Saleable: 1054’

19.5K 海寧居 LA VISTA

Bright apartment with modern kitchen and stunning sea views. Must see!

1

EN

G EA

Gross: 661’ Saleable: 545’

蘅峯 PENINSULA

January 2018

BE

尚堤

CHIANTI

4

Gross: 2020’ Saleable: 1615’

56K

海蜂徑 SEABEE 4

Lovely jointed unit, modern kitchen, balcony with nice view. 24hr concierge service. Must see!

3

3

NT

LE

Gross: 713’ Saleable: 588’

5.4M

Renovated apartment, modern kitchen and ideal for family. Convenient and quiet.

1

3 2

3 2

Gross: 1180’ Saleable: 963’

13.08M

Nicely renovated apartment, spacious living with stunning sea views. Must see!

碧濤

Gross: 1235’ Saleable: 962’

3 2

Gross: 1644’ Saleable: 1406’

12M 頤峰 GREENVALE

Nicely renovated lowrise apartment with spacious living. Close to schools. Good value. Don’t miss.

BEACH

Spectacular lowrise apartment, fully equipped kitchen and close to beach, DB plaza and pier. Must see!

4

BE

4

12.2M

Successfully jointed unit, spacious living and close to schools. Ideal for family.

2

T

EN

AD

AG

LE

B

海堤閣 COSTA COURT

119K

N

W ION LO UAT E B AL V K AN

T

L

SO

5

Gross: 2075’ Saleable: 1995’

IO AT LU VA NT NK E BA AG W OLE O L S

海澄湖畔一段 SIENA ONE

EN

G EA

Company sale. Fabulous waterfront house with garden and terrace. Modern kitchen and great for entertaining.

海馬徑 SEAHORSE

N

SO

3

115K/36M

IO AT LU T VA EN NK AG BA AD AT LE

E AG

觀峰樓 MOUNTAIN VIEW

Gross: 3100’ Saleable: 2403’

Gross: 1357’ Saleable: 1282’

17.8M 朝暉徑 HEADLAND

Renovated lowrise apartment with large garden, spacious living and good value. Must see!

4 3

www.headlandhomes.hk

Gross: 1904’ Saleable: 1889’

$119K/40M

Beautifully renovated house with outdoor living space. Practical layout and high ceilings. Must see!

2987 2088

EAA LIC C-033418

DB’s Corporate & Business Service Solutions Provider

Event & Production Sponsor Title Sponsor

The Black Dog Consultants DB Pirates International All Girls Beach Festival 2018 27 and 28 January 2018 Tai Pak Beach, Discovery Bay, Hong Kong Asia’s largest All Girls Beach Festival is back! We welcome back rugby teams from around the world to our 4 pitch facility on the beach for 2 incredible days Rugby: Youth (U14, 16 and 19’s) play on Sat; Minis (U10, 12’s) and Ladies play on Sun For enquiries please email: beachfest@dbpirates.com or call +852 2516 7397

The Club is proudly sponsored by:

Proudly supported by:

A Vibrant Family of Learners

School Opens in September 2018 Malvern College Hong Kong (MCHK) plans to be an all through IB World School utilising the IB curriculum framework which incorporates the PYP, MYP and the DP. The school is conveniently located adjacent to the Hong Kong Science Park. MCHK will provide an extensive range of school bus services, covering Central, Admiralty, Repulse Bay, Hong Kong East, Happy Valley, Kowloon Tong, West Kowloon, New Territories and other areas. The estimated travelling time is 25 - 40 minutes. The construction of the state-of-art campus is well underway and is planned to finish by the end of April 2018.

To learn more about our school, please join our upcoming information session: Tuesday, 30th January 2018, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

14/F, Club Lusitano, 16 Ice House Street, Central Please register at http://www.malverncollege.org.hk/infosession.

The Malvern College Family

UK

Hong Kong

Chengdu

Qingdao

Egypt

CLUB SIENA & DBIS

NOW ENROLMENT

OPEN INFANT AQUATIC

SPRING TERM 8 JANUARY TO 10 MARCH 2018 • HEATED POOL • YEAR ROUND PROGRAMME • STRUCTURED AND PROGRESSIVE PROGRAMME • ENROL ONLINE

LEARN TO SWIM

WWW.HARRYWRIGHT.COM.HK SWIMMING@HARRYWRIGHT.COM.HK

COMPETITIVE STREAM

(+852) 2575 6279

CONTENTS January 2018

PROFILE

IN FOCUS

DBIS teachers Jonny Haines and Tim Tait

How a personal trainer can get you fit

22

26

FAMILY MATTERS

TALKING POINTS

Is it wiser to board or go local?

Are DB’s beaches totally trashed?

32 ESCAPES Holiday planner 2018

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

REGULARS 20

GIVEAWAYS Win big prizes

39

WELLNESS Supplements

47

RECIPES French casseroles

57

DB FACES Community snaps

64

OUT THERE Island life

AGENDA 08

DB EVENTS

53

HK HAPPENINGS

58

CLASSIFIEDS

60

PROPERTY

61

LOCAL NUMBERS

ON THE COVER Tim Tait and Jonny Haines all set for the Lantau Island Paddle Challenge To read the cover story, turn to page 22

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

JANUARY 2018

The case for SUPPLEMENTS

(it’s time to start pill popping!)

How a personal trainer can get you from

flab to fit

Making the most of

To board, or not to board, we answer the question

42

www.arounddb.com Publishers in Lantau since 2002

ANNUAL LEAVE in 2018

ACTIVISM

DBIS teachers paddling for change!

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

FREE

Photo by Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

We also publish…

Dec 2017/ Jan 2018

WIN! tickets to see The xx and football classes with HK Dragons FC

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 connie@baymedia.com.hk Call 2987 0577/ 2787 0886 Fax 2987 0533

Join your community online

2017 / 2018 MERRY CHRISTMAS HAPPY NEW YEAR! MEET MUI WO’S OWN SANTA AND HIS ELF

PARTY-SEASON SURVIVAL KIT HOW TO DETOX AS YOU GO

A TIME FOR GIVING

Our altruistic running community (and top local races) ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE Join your community online at www.lifeonlantau.com

Publishers in in Lantau Lantau since since 2002 2002 Publishers

DINING • LIVING • PETS • SPORTS • PASTIMES • EDUCATION • HEALTH • BEAUTY • SERVICES • TRAVEL • EXCURSIONS • COMMUNITY

HYDROPONICS THE FUTURE OF FOOD PRODUCTION

FourEverGreen is a hydroponic farming company that grows high quality, healthy food, using sustainable production methods. We are committed to ensuring our processes and produce meet our four core values; healthy, sustainable, eco-friendly, and ethical. Our vision is to create more food security for the growing world.

There are many reasons why we need to continually research and develop new and alternative food production methods: We have a growing water shortage on the planet: Hydroponic farming uses 90% less water as it feeds the plant directly, rather than the soil that the plant is growing in.

Many countries suffer from food shortages: We need to grow food faster without GMOs and other damaging modifications. Our harvests grow 300% faster than arable farming.

Certain parts of the world are obsolete for growing conditions and creates land shortage: A lot of land previously used for farming is now unusable. How do these nations provide food?

Climate change is having a huge effect on our ability to produce enough food: Our historic growing methods need to be reviewed.

We cannot grow food like we used to. Hydroponics can be grown anywhere, during any season.

The world is growing in population: We over have 7.4 billion people now, and expecting another 1 billion within 30 years; but can only sustain 10 billion people in total globally with current food growth methods.

HYDROPONIC OPPORTUNITY Hydroponic farming is a great way to grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs under totally controlled conditions.

Check out our website www.fourever.green to see how you can get involved today!

FourEverGreen Limited

1601 Yu Sung Boon building 107-111 Des Voeux Road Central, Hong Kong Tel: 3611 6864 email: info@fourever.green

PUBLISHER Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk MANAGING EDITOR Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk ASSISTANT EDITOR Sam Agars sam@baymedia.com.hk SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS & ONLINE EDITOR Claire Severn claire@baymedia.com.hk DIGITAL & SALES ASSISTANT Patricia Jover patricia@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 ADVERTISING & SALES MANAGER Connie Cottam connie@baymedia.com.hk SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER Monika Carruthers monika@baymedia.com.hk OFFICE MANAGER Maxine Parry accountant@baymedia.com.hk PHOTOGRAPHER Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com CONTRIBUTORS Kate Farr Elizabeth Kerr Ray Robertson Peter Sherwood 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

DC FAMILY FUN DAY

Students, teachers, parents and friends got involved in another successful Family Fun Day at Discovery College on December 9, with something on offer for the whole family.

DB EVENTS

YOUR ROUNDUP OF RECENT COMMUNIT Y E VENTS

www.evoqueportraits.com

TENNIS FOR HELPERS The second annual Tennis For Helpers Christmas tournament and party was held on December 10 to celebrate another year of the Tennis For Helpers programme. All the helpers who took part work in DB, and many of their employers came out to play with them or support from the sidelines.

www.arounddb.com January 2018

9

DB EVENTS

www.dbpirates.com

DB PIRATES CHRISTMAS FUNDRAISER At the DB Pirates annual fundraising Christmas bash, at McSorley’s on November 30, the partygoers’ fabulous costumes – think mischievous elves and twinkling Christmas trees – stole the show.

NATIVITY IN THE PLAZA

Organised by Discovery Bay International Community Church, Discovery Bay Church and Church of the Incarnation, Nativity in the Plaza on December 17 was a treat for the multi-faith DB audience.

www.evoqueportraits.com

10

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

To promote a green lifestyle, a refuse chamber in DB has recently been transformed into a community green station“Green.Icon@DB”. Now you have a chance to design its gate!

Eligibility :

Two categories for students attending a DB school

Theme of Design :

1. ary

Pr i m

2.dary

Secodnents stu

students

Submission

Green & Environmental Protection

Design on A3-sized paper

(with the participant’s full name, school name, class and email on the back of the entry)

Students can submit the original copy of the design to their school by the deadline Deadline : Monday 5th February 2018

Judging

Enquiry : 2238 3601

Shortlists will be provided by each school Public online voting via the Around DB Facebook page

GREEN.ICON@DB

FEBRUARY

5

KEY DATES

15

mon

thu

Cut-off date for submission of artwork to schools

Each school provides a shortlist of entries

MARCH

5

mon Online voting commences at 8am

APRIL

12

14

mon

1

wed

Online voting ends at 8am

The results (name of the winner, 2 runners up & 3 merits) are posted on the Around DB Facebook page & www.arounddb.com

sun Announcement of the winners, runners up & merits to appear in the April issue of Around DB magazine.

es PrizWinners : $2,000 1st runners up : 2nd runners up : 3 x Merits :

BOOK COUPON CERTIFICATE $1,500 BOOK COUPON CERTIFICATE $1,000 BOOK COUPON CERTIFICATE $500 BOOK COUPON CERTIFICATE EACH

The winning designs will be painted on the gate of Green.Icon@DB and all shortlisted design entries will be exhibited at Green.Icon@DB for public appreciation. For more info go to www.arounddb.com The organizer has the discretion to use the designs for promotion purposes and reserves the right of the final decision in the event of any disputes.

Terns and conditions apply.

in ow n n Ope ui Wo M

Infusing style and skilled craftmanship in your home

STORE LOCATIONS

SHOP ONLINE

Prince’s Buiding, Central T: 2537 6298 Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau T: 2873 1795 The Repulse Bay, Repulse Bay T:2812 6685 17 Chung Hau, Mui Wo T: 2890 8606 E: sales@inside.com.hk

Enjoy free delivery to you door* or click & collect from our stores www.inside.com.hk *Minimum order HK$ 800

take time for yourself .... take a pause with us in Mui Wo follow us on fb: pause lantau & pause.hk www.pause.hk | +852 97080187 | hello@pause.hk Fully equipped Pilates and Yoga Fitness studio specialists in pre natal & re-hab from injury & pause by the banyan 2 peaceful treatment rooms offering Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Sports Therapy, Massage, Reiki, Aromatherapy Massage, Meditation, Counseling Enjoy our weekday & weekend packages of classes and treatments

DB EVENTS January 1

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Wishing all our loyal readers and advertisers a very happy and prosperous 2018.

YOUR GUIDE TO UPCOMING COMMUNIT Y EV ENTS

www.pexels.com

Throughout January

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

If you would like to see an event listed in this section, email katrina@baymedia.com.hk

YOGA FOR HELPERS Discovery Bay International School January 7, 14, 21 & 28

January 6

STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET across

from Haven Court, 2pm to 4.45pm. For more information, call 2238 3617.

January 11 www.yogacommunity.org

DB yoga instructors Eva Kunyi and Olivia Torres are running free yoga classes for domestic helpers every Sunday morning from 8.30am to 9.30am at Discovery Bay International School. For more information and to register, head to www.yogacommunity.org.

Throughout January

DB ENTREPRENEURS NETWORKING BREAKFAST at Zak’s, DB, kicks off at 8am. For information and registration, head to the DB Entrepreneurs Networking Breakfast Facebook page or visit www.t8events.com.

DMK OPEN DAY Discovery Mind Kindergarten, Peninsula Village www.wikimedia.org

January 13

FREE ZINC TESTING IMI, DB North Plaza

Head to the Integrated Medicine Institute for a free, simple and quick zinc-level taste test. Many people are zinc deficient, a condition that can lead to weak immunity, thinning hair, food allergies, acne and rashes. Call 2537 1087 for more information; and turn to our new wellness column, on page 39, to discover how you can benefit from nutritional supplements.

www.discoverymind.edu.hk

Get down to Discovery Mind Kindergarten to find out exactly what they have to offer your child. The open day runs from 10am to 12pm; to find out more, visit www.discoverymind.edu.hk.

www.arounddb.com January 2018

15

DB EVENTS January 14

SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET

January 21

in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm.

JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP

organised by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, at Sam Pak Wan from 2pm to 4pm. Visit www.dbgreen.org.

January 28 & 29

ADIEU UNCLE RUSS DB Plaza January 31

www.dbpirates.com

ALL GIRLS BEACH FESTIVAL Tai Pak Wan

With mini, youth, women’s and touch categories, the DB Pirates All Girls Beach Festival is one of the more unique events on the rugby calendar. Supported by the Hong Kong Rugby Union, entry is free and organisers are hoping to better the 55 teams that took part in last year’s event. For more information, email beachfestival@dbpirates.com.

AROUND DB’S YOUNG WRITERS COMPETITION All secondary school Deadline: March 7 students living and/ or studying in Lantau are eligible to enter the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writers Competition.

Students are asked to submit an account of 600 to 700 words describing Lantau life in the future – in 2030. From the articles submitted, our www.arounddb.com three mentors each select a winning story and work on improving it with the author. The three finished articles are posted on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook pages for an online vote. Authors must submit their name, age, year group and school, along with their article, by March 7 to rachel@baymedia.com.hk.

16

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

www.arounddb.com

Uncle Russ in DB Plaza is temporarily shutting its doors, however both the DB North Plaza and ferry pier outlets are still open for business. Stay tuned for some exciting developments regarding a new Uncle Russ in DB Plaza!

GRAFFITI DESIGN COMPETITION DB students are invited Deadline: February 5 to graffiti-up the gate of Green.Icon@DB, the new community green station at Parkridge Village. The winning designs will be painted on the gate, and there will also be prizes for the finalists in each category. Graffiti artists should submit their design on A3 paper, with their name, school, www.hkri.com class and email address written on the back. The theme is Green and Environmental Protection, and the deadline for submission to the schools is February 5.

Each school will select their finalists. The winners will be chosen via an online vote on the Around DB Facebook page March 5 to 12. To find out more, call 2238 3601.

LANTAU HIGHLIGHTS AIDS FREE CHARITY TRAIL RUN

LADIES TRAIL RUN

Start: Mui Wo

Start: Mui Wo

January 13

January 20

www.wikimedia.org

The AIDS Free Charity Trail Run is co-organised by Lantau Base Camp and Hong Kong AIDS Foundation and raises funds to support HIV/ AIDS prevention services. There is a 10-kilometre challenge run with male and female categories, and a 5-kilometre fun run for either individual runners or teams of up to four. To find out more, head to aids.org.hk/?page_id=6099.

www.lantaubasecamp.com

Organised by Lantau Base Camp, the Inov-8 Lantau Ladies Trail Running Race is aimed at encouraging more ladies to hit the Lantau Trails. Competitors choose between 12- and 20-kilometre races. To find out more, head to events.lantaubasecamp.com.

SAVE the DATE TENNIS NATIONS CUP Discovery Bay Recreation Club

DBIS INTERNATIONAL FOOD FAIR Discovery Bay International School

March 3 & 4

March 10

www.evoqueportraits.com www.evoqueportraits.com

The 25th edition of DB’s biggest and best tennis event is on the horizon, so start working on your fitness (and a whacky national costume). To find out more, call the Discovery Bay Recreation Centre on 2987 7381.

The annual Discovery Bay International School International Food Fair is one of the largest community events in DB, offering a range of culinary delights from all corners of the globe. You can also look forward to music and singing, plus a host of commercial and charity stalls.

www.arounddb.com January 2018

17

SPONSORED CONTENT

Where East meets West Photos courtesy of PizzaExpress, Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong and La Creation & Châteraisé

– fantastic fusion dining in Discovery Bay

18

W

hether you’re looking for delicate eastern flavours, hearty European fare or a combination of both, DB’s restaurants have you covered!

A truly diverse community, DB is home to people from all corners of the globe, therefore it’s only fitting that the town’s dining scene is just as varied as its residents.

The range of restaurants in DB really is quite incredible. Take D’Deck as an example. You can find everything from French delights at 22˚ North to classic Mexican food at Coyote Mexican Cantina, and Indian and British dishes at McSorley’s Ale House.

Heading upstairs, the international feel continues, with options including Mediterranean cuisine at Solera Spanish Restaurant, Korean specialities at First Korean Restaurant and Thai delights at Koh Tomyums. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’re bound to find it in DB!

And now, many DB restaurants are taking the concept of variety one step further, with a range of fusion dishes specially designed to stimulate the taste buds.

“We have a number of fusion dishes at our restaurants,” says Matthew Wilcock, general manager of DB’s Castelo Concepts outlets, which currently include Zak’s, Figos, Jaspa’s and MooFish. “At MooFish, we’ve paired all-time Aussie favourite barramundi with Asian stir-fried greens and a soy ginger sauce for a light yet flavoursome combination.

While at Zak’s, diners can enjoy the delicious pulled Thai chicken salad. In DB, we have such a diverse community all living together that we need to be able to please every palate.”

Another restaurant offering innovative taste combinations is PizzaExpress. New to DB in 2017, the popular chain famously mixes eastern and western

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

ingredients with its Peking Duck pizza, featuring spiced duck, hoisin sauce, chilli, spring onions and cucumber.

“Peking duck is a delicacy in China,” says Liam Collette, general manager for PizzaExpress Hong Kong, UAE, Singapore and Franchises. “Traditionally it is served rolled in flat bread, however we’ve taken the concept and given it a creative twist with the Peking Duck pizza. It’s so popular, it has now earned a place on our regular menu in Hong Kong.”

The dish comes with a feel-good factor too, with HK$8 from each sale going to the Chi Heng Foundation, a Hong Kong-based charity that supports AIDS-impacted children in China.

Vegetarians aren’t forgotten at PizzaExpress either, with the inspired Beyond Chicken & Kale pizza featuring a 100% plant-based meat substitute that really does taste like… meat! Topped with kale pesto, ricotta cheese, cherry tomatoes, garlic oil, walnuts and fresh basil, this dish certainly challenges the perception that veggie food is boring!

Another recent addition to the food scene in DB Plaza is La Creation & Châteraisé. Formerly La Creation bakery and Kiraku Tei, the new restaurant, part of the A1-Bakery Group, has been completely redesigned and extended. It now offers both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a range of international dishes.

“We provide fresh, high-quality food made daily on the premises,” says a spokesperson for A1-Bakery Group.

“Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a grab-and-go lunch, or fully prepared food, the newly expanded La Creation & Châteraisé has it covered.

“Our all-new co-brand concept store offers carefully selected items

from both companies and, since we reopened, the number of products we serve has grown from 200 to 330!”

Over at DB North Plaza, the selection widens further, with everything from sushi at Nura Rolls to international buffet dining at Café bord de Mer & Lounge.

And for the meat lovers out there, the Flaming BBQ Feast at The Bounty Entertainment & Sports Bar is hard to beat. For just HK$328 for two, you can enjoy a delicious platter of spring chicken, pork ribs, banger sausages, Wagyu beef patties, sweetcorn, ladies fingers and garden salad, served with fresh bread, pickles and sauces. Even better, the bar’s

all-day happy hour means that you can tuck in while enjoying buy-oneget-one-free drinks.

Excitingly, there are also some changes afoot at DB North Plaza, with Jaspa’s set to be transformed into Tigerlily in early 2018 – a brand-new concept that will bring together flavours from all around the Asian region.

Perhaps the best thing about eating out in DB, however, is the unique setting, where foodies can dine al fresco in beautiful surroundings, while savouring sublime views across the bay and over to Hong Kong. It’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else. At the end of the day, whatever you want to eat – DB is the place to be!

Useful contacts • Café bord de Mer & Lounge, 2295 8299 • La Creation & Châteraisé, 2987 1829 • MooFish, www.casteloconcepts.com • PizzaExpress, pizzaexpress.com.hk • The Bounty Entertainment & Sports Bar, www.aubergediscoverybay.com • Zak’s, www.casteloconcepts.com

www.arounddb.com January 2018

19

GIVEAWAYS

HERE’S YOUR CHANCE TO WIN PRIZES! Around DB prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until January 10 to apply.

Simply scan the barcode, or go to www.arounddb.com/giveaways, select the giveaway you want, and enter your details into the online form.

Win adult Mandarin classes with Zhizhi Chinese Education

Win a gift box from The South African Shop

Zhizhi Chinese Education is offering two readers three adult Mandarin classes (worth HK$1,200).

Zhizhi Chinese Education is a professional Chineselanguage institute, for www.evoqueportraits.com children and adults, led by bilingual, internationalschool educator Debbie Tai. Specialising in effective Chinese teaching, Debbie ensures that students learn to listen, speak, read and write with interest and confidence. To find out more, visit www.zhizhichinese.com.

The South African Shop is offering one reader a gift box containing South African wine, Boerewors, Biltong, Droëwors, biscuits, rusks, condiments www.thesouthafricanshop.com and snacks (worth HK$1,000).

The prize will be delivered to your doorstep in Hong Kong.

The South African Shop is an online family business born out of the excitement of receiving much-anticipated goodies from South Africa. Stocking Biltong, Droëwors, Boerewors, cereals, condiments and South African snacks, the owners also accept product requests. Call 9457 0639 or shop online at www.thesouthafricanshop.com.

Congratulations to last month’s winners Adele Hodgson for tickets to Monstersaurus; Sabina Simmons and Hiu Wah Yu for a HK$500 Bumps to Babes gift voucher; Kwok Wai Tang for a HK$1,000 Jervisbay Barbecues gift voucher; and Joanna Reid for a Zen Sisters bracelet.

OFFICE 3483 5003

www.homesolutions.hk

Kelly Merrick Sharon Riley Misako Takato Kim Jomar

9331 8141 9664 4749 9757 0927 9748 2367

(S-365384) (S-415475) (S-287062) (E-352962)

NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG

$14.2M

PUI O VILLAGE HOUSE 1500’ + 500’ Rooftop + Garden

Stunning designer home! 3 Beds, 2 Baths inc 1 ensuite. Luxurious bathroom finishes, with Italian designed kitchen and modern appliances. Open plan living, stone flooring and rooftop entertainment area.

$12M

HAM TIN VILLAGE HOUSE 2100’ + 700’ Roof

Beautifully renovated village house in delightful Ham Tin. 4 Beds, 4 Baths inc 1 ensuite. Lovely open plan kitchen with living room leading out to patio. Parking space nearby and close to beach.

$16K

$58K VILLAS IN CHEUNG SHA 2313’ + Garden

Modern Zen style renovated villas. 4 Beds, 2.5 Baths inc 1 ensuite.

Environmentally friendly design, featuring bamboo flooring, spacious living and dining area with separate kitchen. Gorgeous sea views.

MUI WO VILLAGE HOUSE 800’ + 400’ Rooftop

Lovely village house situated in quiet environment. 1 Bed, 2 Baths inc 1 ensuite.

Spacious bedroom, plenty of storage with rooftop great for entertaining.

Enjoy mountain views and close to hiking trials.

$9.8K 1/F HAM TIN STUDIO 350’

Newly renovated and fully furnished studio in the heart of Ham Tin. Studio and 1 Bath. Lovely open plan kitchenette, tile flooring and tasteful furnishings. Close to beach, a must see!

Making you feel at home is our business

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

C-044849

Nina Schulte-Mattler (S-467927)

Thorsten Allenstein (E-395327)

Alexandra Collado (E-405308)

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

PROFILE

22

P a d d l e

DBIS teachers Jonny Haines and Tim Tait talk the talk and paddle the paddle to raise awareness of Hong Kong’s ongoing battle with excess plastic – and win hearts and minds. Elizabeth Kerr reports

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

K I N G S Tim Tait and Jonny Haines in the lead-up to the Lantau Island Paddle Challenge



I

t’s after Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) hours, when I meet Jonny Haines and Tim Tait at a DB coffee house. They’re a couple of self-deprecating lads joking about and having a good time, and here’s the kicker: They look like DB knock-offs of Chris Evans and Stone Cold Steven Austin, in both cases just a smidge shorter. If these two can’t clean up the water around Lantau, no one can.

They may sound like a comedy duo but Jonny and Tim are dead serious. Wading into the water around Hong Kong lately has felt more like a re-creation of the trash compactor scene (minus the dianoga) from Star Wars than a leisurely swim.

Jonny, 34, and Tim, 37, are on a mission to make sure everyone knows that, to help Plastic Free Seas educate more kids about marine pollution, and to change attitudes.

‘It,’ in this case, is Jonny and Tim’s upcoming Lantau Island Paddle Challenge, in which they will paddle the full 75-kilometre distance around Lantau, over five consecutive days, starting February 2. Jonny has been paddle-boarding for a year; Tim was a total novice when he agreed to get involved.

The duo aim to cover 15 kilometres a day, and they are in no doubt about the extent of the challenge.

“We had a real dicey session a few weeks ago – headwinds, swells, ferry wakes,” recalls Tim. “It was hard to get anywhere, and

Tim’s story is similar. Raised on Golden Bay on New Zealand’s South Island, the self-proclaimed country boy – “When I say I’m from the country, it’s a proper small, isolated town” – was restless after studying Physical Education at university and teaching in the Bay of Plenty. Like Jonny, he’d always wanted to get overseas. “Teaching in New Zealand doesn’t allow for you to save enough money to be travelling,” he says. “The opportunity was here.”

Five fellow alumni were already in Hong Kong, so Tim burnt through his savings for a year, eventually landing a teaching position at DBIS in the Physical Education department.

That was eight years, partner Hannah and a family ago.

This is one of the best opportunities for live learning for our kids… for them to see something real.

They can follow our route, and they can be interactive and engaged

They’re even working on a catch phrase they can plant in young minds, something along the lines of ‘That’s not cool!’ when turning down a plastic straw.

This writer’s plastic shopping bag under the chair elicits a cheerful ‘That’s not cool!’ So does a throwaway story about a Snickers bar.

Making a stand Last summer, while paddle boarding around some of DB’s more tucked away bays, Jonny was inspired to act after repeatedly finding pockets of garbage clogging the coves.

“I took the GoPro out and did a little video without real intention and chucked in on Facebook.

Greenpeace actually got in touch, and they shared it and got 300,000 views,” he recalls. “That’s when you start to realise there’s an audience. That’s where it all grew from.”

we felt like we were on a tightrope the whole time. That’s when reality kicks in.”

Keeping it local The pair took up the ecological cause because it’s the right thing to do, and because they hope to preserve what drew each of them to Hong Kong to begin with.

A native of coastal Newquay in the UK, Jonny landed in the SAR six years ago with his now-wife Michelle (who is also the event’s land manager) to become Primary English Coordinator and Year 5 teacher at DBIS. “I had a friend who worked at the school already, and I was envious of his incredible holiday snaps. And I thought, ‘I want a slice of that,’” he says with a laugh. “It’s been the best thing I’ve ever done.”

Jonny and Tim both settled in DB largely because it reminded them of home, and friends had already briefed them on the pros and cons. For some, the village vibe can be a bit much but for Tim, growing up in New Zealand, everything’s about the community. “No matter where you were, everyone knew everyone, and everyone knew everyone’s business,” he says.

“It’s the same here. There’s just more people.”

Jonny is more succinct. “I grew up on a farm, so the thought of that,” he says, pointing at Hong Kong Island in the distance, “scared the life out of me. The anxiety level I get just getting on the ferry blows my mind. Like I said, I had friends here, so I had a little insight on what Discovery Bay was like. With nature and the sea on your doorstep, I always knew we were going to live here. This is enough for me.”

Inspiring the kids Diversity, easy travel, a community of like-minded people and a chance for The Chris Parker to jumpSlap in bass theplayer water anyTriplejacks, time are 

www.arounddb.com January 2018

23

PROFILE

pros, but, as Tim admits, there are a lot of negatives as well, which is part of the reason for the challenge.

Aside from raising (hopefully) HK$100,000 for Plastic Free Seas, Jonny and Tim hope to change attitudes – they believe action is more valuable than cash. The paddle is getting help from the University of Hong Kong, which will be taking water samples along the way, and crucially, it’s already proving a great educational tool for DBIS students.

“This is one of the best opportunities for live learning for our kids… for them to see something real,” says Tim. “They can follow our route, and they can be interactive and engaged with what’s going on. They’ll learn a lot more than

they would by just doing a lesson on habitats.”

Jonny agrees, and he’s not wrong about DB being the perfect spot for a pilot programme for wholesale change. “We are blessed to have a captive audience. That’s what’s special about DB,” he argues. “If we were trying to do this [on Hong Kong Island], the message would be so diluted, it wouldn’t hit home.”

Jonny and Tim will put about five hours each day into the challenge, which admittedly is the easy part: logistics, support, and rougher

seas on the south side, where there are fewer calm bays, more ferry wakes and higher winds, are each a unique hurdle. But it will be worth it, if they can prove just how successful grassroots activism can be.

Make no mistake. Neither Jonny nor Tim are anti-plastic zealots. They’d just like to see less needless plastic contaminating the water. And the key is indeed the next generation.

“We all have [environmental] values but we don’t act on them,” Tim finishes. “The kids are the ones we can change.” That’s cool.

To make a donation, head to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lantaupaddle.

To stay up to date with the pair’s progress, visit lantaupaddle.wixsite.com/lantaupaddle or www.arounddb.com.

Find more local heroes @ www.arounddb.com

BODYPUMP - GRIT STRENGTH - GRIT PLYO - BODYSTEP - RPM - TRX - CORE SPIN - BOXING CIRCUIT - BOOTCAMP - LEGS, BUMS & TUMS - KIDS SIGN UP FOR A FREE TRIAL! WWW.THEHITROOM.COM.HK INFO@THEHITROOM.COM.HK +852 6621 7410

The Uncle Russ team would like to express its sincere gratitude to all loyal customers who have supported us at DB Plaza over the last 25 years.

The DB Plaza branch will temporarily shut its doors on January 31, 2018.

Make sure to stop by and grab your favourite coffee and snack before then!

IN FOCUS

W

e’ve all been there – a flash of inspiration, a grand plan and a flying start to what will be a life changing exercise regime. Unfortunately, a lot of the time, the initial motivation isn’t matched by sustained hard work, and what was a great idea peters out into little more than nothing.

Figh

With the arrival of 2018 and New Year’s resolutions flying about thick and fast, we’ve turned to three Lantau-based personal trainers in a bid to point you down the road to a new you.

Photos by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com, and courtesy of Wesley Reid

Know what you want to achieve

26

For Ash Joshi of AJ Fitness, the decision to improve his body shape changed his life in more ways than one. What started as a mission to get fit enough to play with his young son has led to a career in the fitness industry, with the 41-yearold Tung Chung resident now a personal trainer, with clients in DB and across Hong Kong. Ash’s story is one we can all relate to, and he’s not afraid to admit there were points in his life when his diet wasn’t great and he “wasn’t really fussed about being healthy”.

Ash first started putting on weight in 2012 not long after he got married, and the scales really began to tip after the birth of his son in 2013. “I was just very happy and content with life,” he says. “And I was eating a lot of junk.”

When friends started commenting on his weight gain, Ash decided to take action, and he set himself a goal – the London Marathon.

“I trained for a whole year, and I

Ash Joshi of AJ Fitness

completely overhauled my diet.

I quit smoking and everything,” he says. “I finished the London Marathon and my weight had gone, and then I started weight training and toning my body up. There was lots of sweat, blood and tears.”

Ash says at his biggest his waist ballooned out to 38 inches – now it’s 30. He didn’t slow down after completing the marathon, and people took notice of his achievements.

“People would take transformation and Facebook, and they me how I’d done it,

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

photos of my put them on started asking and if I could

fla

For many of us, getting fit, or fitt does in practice. Sam Agars gets s achieve and maintain the

ht

the

ab!

ter, works better in theory than it some expert advice on how best to e ultimate revenge body

Tyler Treece of Treece Fitness

help them out,” he says. “I ended up turning my own life journey and my passion for exercise into a business.

I’m really happy. For, me it’s a personal achievement but it’s also nice that I can help other people.”

And for those hoping to follow in his footsteps, Ash has this advice: “Getting fit is a psychological thing, it’s not just a physical a thing. Your state of mind has to be right and you have got to want it.

“I see a lot of clients start training, and after the first 10 sessions they are not interested anymore because their mindset is not in it. It is about getting your mind focused and knowing what you want to achieve.”

Enjoy it and keep at it DB-based personal trainer Tyler Treece, of Treece Fitness, says making sure clients enjoy exercising is his way of ensuring they stick at it.

Tyler, who has been running boot camps and the like in DB

since 2006, grew up interested in fitness, and for him the best recipe for success is the simplest one.

“What I try to do is teach everybody how to structure their workout, and I make sure they focus on and keep doing the important parts, like warming up and stretching.

This way, people feel better while they are working out,” the 40-year-old says.

Tyler is well aware that fitness training supercharges the body’s store of endorphins – the hormone responsible for our feeling on top of the world after a good workout.

“People find they feel better after a workout, even before they start seeing actual results,” he says. “In order to get results, you need to get people hooked on exercising, and what usually gets them hooked is just feeling better while they exercise.”

According to Tyler, finding an exercise regime that works for you, and that you enjoy doing, is 

www.arounddb.com January 2018

27

IN FOCUS

step one – step two is keeping at it. What’s more, the likelihood of your making exercise a key component of your life is wholly dependent on how much you enjoy it.

“If you want exercise to work for you, you have to do it consistently,” he says. “I always tell people that it is easier to maintain than it is to start and restart.

You don’t have to kill yourself during your workout in order to get results, you have to do it right, you have to enjoy it, and you have to do it regularly.”

Get out of comfort zone

Wesley’s road to fitness opened up when he started working out and running with friends in his late teens. While studying to become a personal trainer, his knowledge of the human body and how it responds to certain types of exercise grew.

Wesley and Cindy pride themselves on being able to match or better anything they ask of their clients, and Wesley says the key lies in finding a way to make people want to push themselves out of their comfort zone.

your

Anyone who is even remotely familiar with the DB fitness scene will know of Wesley Reid – and his wife Cindy – and The HIT Room.

Wesley Reid of The HIT Room

While Wesley was never one who had huge issues with his weight, there were times when he wasn’t as healthy as he could have been, and he says his fitness journey has been a lifelong progression.

“I played a lot of sports but I was never a very athletic kid. My mum used to bake a lot of cakes, and I liked to sit down with a plate of food and watch cartoons of an afternoon,” the 36-year-old says.

“I’d say that overall I was a naturally sedentary person. I wouldn’t say I was fat but I was probably slightly chubby.”

“You can get to a certain level of fitness just by throwing some weights around or going for a jog.

But if you really want to get to where you want to go, you’re going to have to do a little bit more than that. It’s actually the little things that make the big things happen,” he says.

FIND IT

“Humans don’t necessarily want to work hard,” Wesley adds. “You hear every excuse under the sun, honestly you do. It’s about giving yourself a reasonable goal and being disciplined.

Take it step by step, make it a lifelong progression.”

• AJ Fitness, AJFitness15 Facebook page • The HIT Room, www.thehitroom.com.hk • Treece Fitness, www.treecefitness.com

Find more clubs and activities @ www.arounddb.com

28

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

“There is a difference between telling someone to do an exercise and making them want to do that exercise because they really believe that it’s for their own good,” he says.

“Even in session one, I’m quite frank with clients: I tell them I can get them strong and help them lose a bit of weight, but they will need to push themselves, if they truly want to reach their goal. It’s about going beyond wanting to stop when the training starts to get a bit tough.

DISCOVER THE NEW YOU!

FITNESS TRAINING

WITH TYLER TREECE

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

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

To board

FAMILY MATTERS

or not

Photos courtesy of Harrow International School Hong Kong, St David’s College and Claire Fraser, High Jump Photography

To board?

32

Are you pondering the pros and cons of day school and residential? Sam Agars looks into the benefits of both systems to help you make the best choice for your child

F

inding the right school for your child is as big a job now as it has ever been, with options aplenty and the standard of education at an all-time high. Hong Kong’s international schools are regarded among the world’s best, but many families are excited by the benefits a boarding school education can bring, whether that means basing their children overseas or right here in the territory.

While many parents wouldn’t dream of ‘sending their kids away,’ considering the idea old fashioned and cruel, others, many of whom

have been through the boarding system themselves, are drawn to it, believing it is the best way to prepare children for life. Let the day school versus boarding school debate begin!

Day schooling There is no shortage of quality day schools in Hong Kong, with DBers afforded the luxury of having both Discovery College (DC) and Discovery Bay International School on their doorstep. And it has to be said, there are very few disadvantages associated with a top international day

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

school, as it can match the level of education offered to boarders and, while children aren’t on the premises 24/7, they have ample opportunities to make friends.

For DC’s head of secondary, James Smith, day schooling is the way forward, primarily because it ensures that the important influence family has on a young person’s life is not compromised.

“The best education happens when a student is benefiting from both a close-knit, supportive home environment and also an excellent school environment,” James says.

St David’s College students

Discovery College students

“One of the advantages DC has as a day school is being able to work in very close cooperation with parents, as partners in learning.

What we know from research is that parents transmit the value of education to their children, they help them to succeed, and they help them to thrive. They influence their moral development, behaviour, and attitude to learning.

“For us, the absolute best situation is when the students benefit from an excellent school environment, where they are given the best opportunities to become independent, to lead and to be

autonomous, alongside the caring hand of a parent,” James adds.

it’s clear that a full-time boarding school has much to offer.

What’s more, James says now is a great time to be attending an international school in Hong Kong.

“I think the quality that international schools bring to education is that they are specialists in building globally minded citizens. They are specialists in building people, who can think globally, who can interact with others well, and who can recognise their place in the world,” he says.

Tim Hall, head of external relations at St David’s College in Wales, opens by focusing on the ‘whole person education’ that is supplied by overseas boarding schools – something he feels day school kids do not have access to, particularly day school kids in a ‘small pond’ like Hong Kong.

“The joy of being in an international school environment, in particular, is that you have the freedom to innovate; you have the freedom to respond precisely to the needs of the students that sit in front of you,” James adds. “International school teachers don’t have to respond to a distant policy network, we cater precisely to the needs of the students that come through our doors.”

Boarding overseas Overseas boarders get round-theclock education and a built-in social life, and for expat kids, of course, being schooled in their ‘home country’ can be a tremendously grounding experience. If money is no object, and you want your child to be totally immersed in an educational environment, and/ or you have a busy career yourself,

“The life experience of a child in Hong Kong is hugely limited, and I think parents have got the wherewithal and are really interested in what you might call a whole person education,” Tim says. “It’s not just about learning, it’s about the resilience skills and the leadership skills. All that comes through the wider experience of sports, outdoor activities and a lot of dynamic social contact with many other schools.”

St David’s currently has nine Hong Kong-based students – four expats and five Hong Kong Chinese. “In general terms, there is a big pull for the Chinese to want to come and get a UK education,” Tim says. “The market is huge – right across China, there is a massive desire for a UK education.”

Parents who are drawn to the boarding school system tend to value the sheer volume  of academics, athletics and

www.arounddb.com January 2018

33

FAMILY MATTERS FAMILY MATTERS

extracurricular activities on offer, 24/7. What’s more, students are encouraged to take a lot of little steps towards maturity; they have to learn to get along with others and take responsibility for their own actions because they are part of a community.

“Students are involved in a whole range of activities, sports and opportunities for developing their leadership skills,” Tim says.

Tim also draws attention to the way boarding schools tend to have not just great teachers but specialist facilities, and are thus able to cater to children with abilities that are either above or below average.

St David’s, for instance, prides itself on being able to provide an education that is individually tailored to each student. Some 60% of the school’s students have some form of additional learning needs.

Boarding in Hong Kong For many parents, the idea of children boarding right here in Hong Kong appeals, because they feel it guarantees them the best of both worlds. Barney Durrant, the principal deputy head at Harrow International School Hong Kong, says his school offers just that, with weekly boarders – all Harrow boarders go home on weekends – getting to see their families regularly, while also benefiting from the boarding environment.

Harrow International School Hong Kong students

older, they need more time to do their homework,” Barney says.

“Consequently, many families struggle to get quality family time during the week. However, the boarding option takes away all travel time and allows the time gained to be turned into productive enrichment time for each pupil.”

Living and studying within the school community for five full days a week, Harrow boarders have access to top-notch sports, music and arts facilities, as well as academic societies. They get to socialise, and learn to cope independently alongside their peers, without leaving the school premises – and all of this is happening under the watchful eye of teachers who are mentors, not helpers or baby-sitters.

It's seldom easy for children to leave the nest but Barney is adamant that it makes more sense for children to begin to make the move a few years before college.

FIND IT

“Parents in Hong Kong work long hours and are often late home. In addition, as pupils get

“The boarding experience ensures that pupils are prepared for university life, creating a halfway house between home life and the adult world,” he says. “They learn to be more self-disciplined in all areas, from personal hygiene to academic organisation.”

Discipline is rarely a problem for boarders, not least because the majority of students have a work hard, play hard ethic – they want to be at their chosen school and they want to be successful. And Barney draws attention to another advantage of spending so much time with like-minded peers. “The bonds of friendship that boarders develop are incredibly strong and often these relationships endure long into adult life,” he says.

“Living so closely with other pupils, in such a tight-knit community, offers a significant level of security,” Barney adds. “It also fosters tolerance, emotional intelligence, care and compassion.”

• Discovery College, www.discovery.edu.hk • Harrow Hong Kong, www.harrowschool.hk • St David’s College, www.stdavidscollege.co.uk

On January 25, at the Hong Kong Football Club in Happy Valley, Tim Hall of St David’s College is sharing the school’s approach to educating pupils with additional learning needs. The talk, presented in association with the Hong Kong Dyslexia Association, focuses on the Nessy Learning Programme and digital programmes to support dyslexics. The event is open to all, and starts at 7.15pm.

Find more topical local topics @ www.arounddb.com

34

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

No 1

UK School for Dyslexia Provision

UK Based

St David’s College Est. 1965

Independent Boarding School For Ages 9 to 19

Discover the

FREEDOM TO FLOURISH

DYSLEXIA INFORMATION EVENING Thursday 25th January, Hong Kong Football Club

Meet our Ambassador, Tim Hall, speaking on ‘Digital programmes to support dyslexics’. An opportunity to discover about St David’s College and its special approach to teaching pupils with additional learning needs and experiencing barriers to learning.

visit: www.stdavidscollege.co.uk/hongkong

Taxi Card

TALKING POINTS

p u n a e l C

your act

Talking to the powerhouses behind Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, Kate Farr discovers what we can all do to keep beach pollution at bay

C Photo courtesy of Dana Winograd

igarette butts, empty cans, bottles and even used syringes – not a list of items swept up from the floor of a particularly seedy nightclub, but a snapshot of the vast quantities of waste regularly found to be littering our beaches.

36

The beaches surrounding DB have long been at the crest of Hong Kong’s tidal wave of marine lap sap. Sam Pak Wan has hit the press on several occasions over the past 18 months with disturbing reports of medical waste being washed ashore, and Nim Shue Wan was badly affected in August after Typhoon Hato damaged a cargo ship, resulting in fuel oil leaking directly into the bay.

So what is the solution? Should we simply accept that our beaches are out of bounds?

believes the state of Nim Shue Wan and Sam Pak Wan damages DB’s reputation as a ‘clean’ community.

A home-grown issue

“We feel it would be beneficial if HKR paid more attention to the cleanliness of the other two beaches bordering DB, especially as so many people – residents and tourists – see these beaches regularly,” she says. “Guests can see Sam Pak Wan from The Auberge, and they often walk down to the beach. People walk to and from DB past Nim Shue Wan – surely their impression of DB must be affected if they see it is full of rubbish?”

Dana Winograd, of Hong Kongregistered eco-charity Plastic Free Seas (PFS) and local community group DB Green, opens by revealing what the powers that be are doing to conserve our coastline. “Hong Kong Resort (HKR) manages Tai Pak Wan and cleans it every day,” she says.

“However, Nim Shue Wan and Sam Pak Wan are managed by the government, so they are cleaned either weekly or bi-weekly.”

While Dana acknowledges the work that is done at Tai Pak Wan, she

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

HKR, meanwhile, emphasises that it is up to the government to clean these non-gazetted beaches. “We

partners in the community, including shop tenants, residents, contractors, green groups and staff, to conserve precious resources, foster recycling and educate community members on protecting our environment through joint effort.”

With regards to recycling initiatives, Dana suggests that HKR’s tenants need to play their part. “We would like to see a ban on polystyrene in the HKRmanaged restaurants, as well as the restaurants that they rent to,” she says. “HKR could also push for a reduction in the amount of single-use plastic used by all of the restaurants in DB.”

Tracey Read, Kate Wade and Dana Winograd celebrating 10 years of DB beach clean-ups

understand that the government conducts regular waste clearing operations at its governed beaches,” an HKR spokesperson says. “As a victim of marine pollution, HKR has repeatedly appealed to the authorities to exert their best efforts to resolve the issue at the root cause, by tackling illegal dumping of marine waste at source and enhancing environmental education.

“Environmental protection has always been the core value in the design, operation and management of DB,” the HKR spokesperson adds. “HKR implements various green initiatives with different

And it’s on the topic of plastic that Tracey Read, founder of PFS, stresses the importance of examining our own habits and making positive, easily achievable changes. “Use fewer singleuse disposable plastic items such as straws, water bottles and bags,” she says. “Bring your own reusable containers when getting takeaway food.

Be conscious of the excessive plastic packaging at the grocery store, and choose products with no, or less packaging – speak or write to store management about this.”

clean-ups, hosted by PFS and DB Green, are open to individuals and families, not only from DB but from all around Hong Kong. We provide reusable, one-size-fits-all cotton gloves and rubbish bags, and we ask that volunteers wear closed-toe shoes, and bring a full, reusable water bottle, along with sun protection and bug spray.”

Last August, DB Green celebrated 10 years of Discovery Bay beach clean-ups, and each meet typically involves around 50 participants, who are focused not only on the sandy part of the beach but also on the vegetation line. Importantly, beach cleaning is not just for adults – kids are also welcome to do their bit and see the positive impact community action can have on the environment.

Stemming the tide

“Clean-ups are a great family activity,” says Dana. “It's never too early to bring your children down to the beach, although we ask that kids below the age of nine are accompanied by an adult. Even if they only pick up a few bottle caps and then play the rest of the time, they are learning about the [waste pollution] issue, and, most importantly, they are enjoying the beach.” This is especially important because, as Dana accurately states: “People tend to take better care of what they appreciate.”

Encouragingly, plenty of DB residents are keen to be part of the solution when it comes to getting actively involved. Kate Wade, founder of DB Green, clarifies: “The monthly community beach

As our community continues to grow, and large-scale events bring more visitors into the resort, a cleaner, greener Discovery Bay is something that everyone could appreciate.

FIND IT

• DB Green, dbgreen.org • Plastic Free Seas, plasticfreeseas.org

Find more topical local topics @ www.arounddb.com www.arounddb.com January 2018

37

English Bespoke Tailors Club of Sartorial Elegance Get yourself pampered with custom luxury in the comfort of your home, office or hotel.

Hong Kong’s only tailors to make personal visits with fittings twice weekly in DB, Lantau and Mid-Levels.

Suits from HKD1999 Shirts from HKD349 Tux from HKD2499 Topcoat from HKD2999

Book an appointment www.englishbespoketailors.com (+852) 9816 3280 info.hk@englishbespoketailors.com himarkmt@netvigator.com Room 603 Tower A, New Mandarin Plaza, 14 Science Museum Road T.S.T Kowloon, Hong Kong

Around DB Jan 2018 Draft.pdf 1 04/12/2017 10:47:56

Shop I, Lifestyle Hub, Fashion Walk, Cleveland St, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong (T) +852 2570 0307

English Bespoke Tailors Club of Sartorial Elegance

Happy New Year from

• Corporate and Commercial • Litigation and Dispute Resolution • Insolvency and Restructuring • Family and Private Client • Criminal and White Collar Crime • Intellectual Property

C

M

Y

• Financial Services Regulation and Compliance • Fraud and Asset Tracing • Employment and Immigration • Mediation • Wills and Trusts

CM

MY

“A true market leader... with tremendous experience and local knowledge.”

CY

CMY

K

The Legal 500 Asia Pacific - 2017 For more information please contact DB residents: 1806 Tower Two, Lippo Centre, 89 Queensway, Hong Kong Tel: +852 2573 5000 Fax: +852 2802 3553 Web: www.tannerdewitt.com Partners: Ian De Witt, Mark Side, Robin Darton, Kim Boreham, Eddie Look, Pamela Mak, Tim Drew, Russell Bennett, Edmond Leung, Jeff Lane, Joanne Brown, River Stone

Tim Drew

Joanne Brown

Partner

Partner

timdrew@tannerdewitt.com

joannebrown@tannerdewitt.com

+852 9131 9602

+852 9171 2380

WELLNESS

I

f you are reading this column (a new addition to Around DB for 2018), it’s likely that you are already proactive about wellness. Let’s assume, you eat your fruit and vegetables, watch your sugar and alcohol intake, stay well hydrated and get plenty of sleep. Why then, do you need to concern yourself with nutritional supplements?

Opening the discussion, Graeme Bradshaw draws attention to The First Hong Kong Total Diet Study Report No. 9, published in December 2014, which revealed that, despite many of our best efforts, the Hong Kong diet leaves a lot to be desired.

“The report showed that not only are we deficient in vitamins, but only 3% of us consume the recommended WHO intake of calcium, just 20% get enough iron and only 35% enough magnesium,” Graeme says. “We are also low on zinc, manganese and potassium, with only around 30% of us displaying internationally accepted levels.”

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

You are what you eat A quick Google search will reveal the long-term effects vitamin and mineral deficiency can have on your health – consider that insufficient calcium intake alone is associated with a long list of medical disorders, including osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, diabetes and obesity. But the question is, why is your diet not delivering enough nutrients? For the answer to that, you have to look beyond your own kitchen and consider the bigger picture.

“Getting your nutrition only from conventionally grown food fails to provide your body with all the nutrients it needs to operate disease free,” says Graeme. “Consider

Graeme Bradshaw takes omega 3, curcumin, a multivitamin and a probiotic every day

The case for

su ppleme nts

To optimise your vitamin and mineral intake, you need to look beyond your diet. Ray Robertson consults Graeme Bradshaw, IMI’s founding director and naturopath the way modern farming methods deplete the soil of minerals without replacing them. All vegetables need minerals, and if the soil isn’t replenished with a mineral-rich fertiliser, then the plants, as well as the farm animals that feed off them, become deficient.”

nutrient content of food. One solution would be to eat only fresh, organic food, which contains 30% more minerals and 80% more anti-oxidants than conventionally grown food, but that’s not always possible due to financial or logistical reasons.

Long-term food storage, processing and the addition of preservatives also degrades the

What’s more, to obtain optimum levels of calcium, magnesium and potassium, you’d need to 

www.arounddb.com January 2018

39

WELLNESS eat five servings of fresh, organic vegetables a day, along with whole grains, nuts and seeds. “That is a quadrupling of the amounts of vegetables and seeds eaten on average,” says Graeme. “Who could really do that in their health quest? It’s possible, but not likely.”

The fact that most foods don’t yield sufficient nutrients is compounded because, nowadays, to stay healthy, we need more nutrients than ever before. The modern food supply is contaminated with pesticides, herbicides and chemicals, and we also have to contend with environmental contaminates in the water and air, such as carbon monoxide, lead and mercury. All this increases our need for vitamins and minerals because our metabolisms and immune systems are under constant attack.

functioning well as we age,” he says. “By reducing inflammation in the key organs, curcumin ensures they last longer.”

Growing children need a daily multivitamin to support healthy brain and bone formation, and they also benefit from a daily dose of omega 3 and a probiotic.

“With children the goal is to target any deficiencies, and work on improving their knowledge about good nutrition,” Graeme says.

“Be aware that not a lot happens immediately on a supplement programme; a few symptoms drop

The fourth supplement Graeme swears by is curcumin (turmeric extract).

“This universally beneficial anti-oxidant protects the heart, brain, joints and all the key organs that we want to be

Graeme advises that you consult a qualified naturopath – not a dietician. “Dieticians are good at constructing certain diets, but their training tells them that you can get all the nutrients you need from an average diet,” he says. “The fact is this is not true, as the 2014 Hong Kong study shows.”

Importantly too, not all supplements are created equal, so it’s wise to seek advice. “I see a lot of people who have made bad choices,” Graeme says. “They’ve either bought cheap and ineffective brands or the wrong supplements for their needs.”

Supplements you need to take While there’s no single ‘fixall’ supplement, Graeme recommends – and takes – four core supplements daily. The first is a multivitamin powder drink.

The second is omega 3, which boosts the cardiovascular system, reduces inflammation, and is an essential for concentration, mood balance and supple skin. The third is a probiotic to boost the immune and digestive systems.

“A probiotic will half the number of times you fall ill – it’s really worth taking, just to be well for more days of the year,” says Graeme.

“You are best to have regular blood checks that monitor your nutrient levels, so you know exactly which supplements to take,” he says.

“Also, blood tests may show excess levels, which can be harmful. For instance, overloading on iron can lead to liver disease, heart problems and diabetes.”

away and you feel better more often, and you fall ill less often – and that’s about it,” he adds.

“It’s more about what doesn’t happen – disease.”

Avoid a DIY approach Do a little online research and you can get a rough idea of which supplements you need.

Smokers and diabetics will reach for the vitamin C; women who menstruate heavily will turn to iron.

However, Graeme warns against a DIY approach.

Graeme recommends whole-food supplements as they are derived from real food and offer superior bioavailability.

For example, vitamin C is more active as an antioxidant when provided with flavonoid cofactors, found in wholefood supplements made from oranges, acerola and high phenolic food concentrates.

It’s true that quality supplements don’t come cheap but, these days, neither does nutrition-rich food. Take salmon, for instance – it is better for you to supplement with a highgrade fish oil than to eat ‘cheap’ farmed fish, which is low in omega-3 and high in toxins.

So there you have it – the case for supplements. Getting your nutrition only from food is a bad idea.

To make these tips practical, you can find an exhaustive range of recommended supplements at the Integrated Medicine Institute in Discovery Bay or Central. For more information, visit www.imi.com.hk.

Find more on wellness @ www.arounddb.com

40

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

Tired TiredofofAntibiotics?

Antibiotics?

Break the cycle Visit IMI and discover natural and effective ways to combat frequent illnesses such as colds, coughs, earaches and sore throats, reducing the need for antibiotics or other pharmaceutical drugs.

Call 2537 1087 to make a booking.

www.imi.com.hk Email: receptiondb@imi.com.hk Office Block Two, North Plaza, Discovery Bay

ESCAPES

Holiday planner 2018 To make the most of your precious annual leave this year, book time off over Chinese New Year, Easter and Christmas. Kate Farr suggests an action-packed itinerary

February

S

tart the year right by enjoying a full 10-day escape, while cashing in just four days of your annual leave. 2018’s Lunar New Year holidays fall on February 16 to 19 (Friday through Monday), giving you a nice long weekend to welcome in the Year of the Dog. But with Valentine’s Day on February 14 (the previous Wednesday), why not whisk your loved one away for a romantic break à deux? Trade those Friday night after-work drinks for a trip to the airport on February 9, booking February 12 to 15 as annual leave to bag a 10-day break.

Chinese New Year

in time to experience the Paris Carnival, a vibrant celebration of music, dancing and costume that winds through the city streets on February 11. And while a scenic Valentine’s Day cruise along the Seine may be enduringly popular, why not hark back to the golden age of travel, by enjoying a romantic dinner at Le Train Bleu instead?

14

Photos by Kate Farr and Joi Ito, and courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

Of course, the location most likely to set hearts a-flutter is the City Of Lights itself: Paris. You’ll arrive just

Located within the bustling Gare de Lyon station, Le Train Bleu was originally conceived in 1901 as a railway buffet, but over the years has become a popular haunt for Paris’ beautiful people (Coco Chanel, Brigitte Bardot and Jean Cocteau were all regulars). Its imposing

27

42

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

Le Train Bleu

3

art nouveau decor was recently restored to its original glory, making it the perfect place to enjoy a truly memorable meal.

The Paris Carnival

The Louvre Museum

Here in Hong Kong, we’re blessed with an abundance of public holidays, thoughtfully spread out throughout the year. If you’re looking to maximise your travel time, while minimising the impact on your valuable annual leave, read on for the best suggestions to make the most of the year in travel.

March/ April Another opportunity to maximise your holiday allowance presents itself over Easter, when the public holiday again falls over a long weekend: March 30 to April 2. This neatly coincides with Ching Ming, which falls on April 5 (a Thursday), enabling you to allocate just three days of leave to enjoy yet another 10-day break. Head off after work on Thursday March 29, book April 3, 4 and 6 as annual leave, and you’ll be back at your desk on Monday April 9, refreshed and raring to go.

7

Easter and Ching Ming

traditional music and dance recitals are performed by Kyoto’s geisha and maiko (trainee) community, and you can also catch a traditional tea ceremony before each show.

31

April is sakura (cherry blossom) season in Japan, and a 10-day break gives you ample time to venture out of Tokyo’s neon jungle and see a little more of this fascinating country. Kyoto is famous for its sakura, and is hard to beat for picture-perfect scenery, classical Japanese architecture and sheer charm. Wander the lanes of Gion in search of Kyoto’s iconic geisha, and ensure you leave space in your schedule to attend a traditional Miyako Odori show.

21

Held four times per day at the iconic Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theatre, these

From Kyoto, hop aboard a bullet train to Okayama, around 90 minutes southwest, and head to the 300-year-old Koraku-en – one of the three ‘great gardens’ of Japan. Covering over 130,000 square metres, this is one of the best places in the region to experience Japan’s sakura in full bloom. To explore more of this charming, mostly rural, farming and fishing region, simply pick up a hire car, or opt to be  chauffeured around.

A geisha in Gion

Sakura in Koraku-en, Okayama

Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theatre

www.arounddb.com January 2018

43

ESCAPES

Holiday planner 2018 Dec/ Jan This year’s third top holiday hack falls over Christmas, giving you the perfect opportunity to escape the commercialism (and cooking!), and kick back. Catch a late flight on Friday December 21, and you’ll only need to book Christmas Eve (a Monday) as annual leave to enjoy a clear fiveday festive break. Alternatively, if you’ve been exceptionally good this year, ask Santa if you can jingle all the way through to the New Year by adding December 27, 28 and 31 on to your leave, giving you a total of 11 days off for the bargain price of four.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy a merry Christmas in sunny Sri Lanka, just five-and-a-half hours’ direct flight from Hong Kong.

Landing in Colombo, head south to the walled city of Galle, a former Dutch colonial fortification. This quaint and peaceful town is the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding area, including the chilled-out beach at Unawatuna, a 10-minute tuktuk ride away. If you plan to stay

3

Christmas and New Year

longer, hire a driver to take you inland to Udawalawe National Park, where you can spot wild elephants, peacocks, mongoose and water buffalo in their natural habitat.

Alternatively, for a taste of Sri Lanka’s colonial past, catch the scenic tourist train from Colombo to Kandy, then onwards to Hatton.

Notable stops along the way include Gampaha, Sri Lanka’s de facto capital of Ayurveda, where you can indulge in bespoke spa treatments, and Rambukkana, home of the famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Perched atop a lush mountain range, the city of Kandy harbours the holy Temple Of The Sacred Tooth Relic, which reputedly houses a tooth belonging to Buddha himself.

From Kandy, ride the rails towards Hatton, through Sri Lanka’s hill country, to see some of the many tea plantations that have made Ceylon a byword for a quality cuppa for over 150 years.

FIND IT • • • • • •

tton A tea plantation near Ha

21

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Rambukkana

Le Train Bleu, www.le-train-bleu.com Miyako Odori show, www.miyako-odori.jp Okayama Koraku-en, www.okayama-korakuen.jp/english Paris Carnival, www.carnaval-paris.org Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, nationalzoo.gov.lk Udawalawe National Park, udawalawe.national.park.ww.lk

Unawatuna Beach, Galle

Find more exciting holiday destinations @ www.arounddb.com

44

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

GET ON THE PROPERTY LADDER with the affordable UK buy-to-let investment that everyone’s talking about

NO MORTGAGE REQUIRED

NO LUMP SUM DEPOSIT

MONTHLY PAYMENT PLANS

RENTAL ASSURANCE & MANAGEMENT

Take advantage of interest free finance on these high yielding investments in premier locations across the UK. Call us on (852) 2970 4543 or visit

www.lfsproperty.com/properties.php Lifestyle Property Advert.indd 2

05/07/2017 10:50

ONE STOP SHOP

Bali

$

1,840

MH

Auckland

$

Bangkok

$

1,450*

TG

Boston

$

*

Da Nang

$

Ho Chi Minh City

$

Maldives

$

Phuket

$

Sapporo

$

Seoul

$

Shanghai

$

Singapore

$

Taipei

$

Tokyo

$

4,900

*

Dubai

$

4,110*

EY

1,430

CX

London

$

4,610

EY

CX

Madrid

$

4,910

EY

KA

Melbourne

$

4,180

CX

CX

Paris

$

5,370

QR

CX

San Francisco

$

4,900

UA

3,650

UA

7,250

*

2,320

*

4,180

*

1,700

*

CX

Seattle

1,630* CX

Sydney

$

1,030* CX

Toronto

$

2,700* CX

Vancouver

$

1,150

2830 2776

* * * * *

$

*

MOBILE CONSULTING

4,330* AA

1,530* KA *

MULTI LINGUAL

NZ

*

LET US DO THE HARD WORK, SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO. At Flight Centre we offer you unbeatable one-stop travel service - wetake care of all your travel needs, and provide great insider knowledge and expert advice wherever you are going. What's more - we'll always look for the best way to save you money.

4,180* CX

6,640* CX 5,270* CX flightcentre.com.hk

equiry@flightcentre.com.hk

Terms & conditions apply, visit our website www.flightcentre.com.hk for full details.Written quote must be presented prior to booking. # Price is per person and applicable when two people are travelling together. *Travel restrictions and conditions apply. Prices are per person in HKD, exclude taxes & subject to availability, and only applicable when two people are travelling together. Prices are correct at time of print and subject to change without notice. Flight Centre (Hong Kong) Limited trading as Flight Centre.Travel Agent licence no. 350062

t

Orthopaedics at OT&P A Comprehensive Solution

Conditions Treated • Joint, Knee, Elbow, Wrist and Hip Pain • Sprains, Strains, Tears • Bone and Spinal Fractures • Arthritis, Tendonitis • Connective Tissue Disease

Now Available

Every alternate Thursday in DB North

For Appointment, Call 24683577

Address: Discovery Bay North Plaza Unit 12, Block 2

www.otandp.com

HKD 400 CNY Promotion before 31 March 2018

RECIPES

Pot luck

Warm things up with these sure-fire crowd-pleasers – you can’t go wrong with a classic French casserole

If you would like to see your favourite recipes featured in this section, email rachel@arounddb.com

Normandy pork Serves 4

• 4 medium pork loin chops • 2 oz butter • 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped • 1 large onion, cut into rings • 1 clove garlic, crushed • 1 medium cooking apple • 1 large green apple • 275 ml dry cider

Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

• 3 tbsp double cream

Preheat the oven to 190°C. Sear the pork chops in half the butter in a saucepan. Sprinkle with thyme and transfer to a casserole dish. Add the remaining butter to the saucepan and fry the onion and garlic. Core the apples and cut them into thick rings, leaving the peel on. Fry for a few seconds with the onion and garlic mixture, and transfer to the casserole. Spoon off any fat left in the saucepan and pour in the cider.

Bring it up to a simmer, season and then add to the casserole. Cover and cook for 30 minutes. Pour in the cream and serve with a lightly cooked green vegetable.

www.arounddb.com January 2018



47

RECIPES

Beef Bourguignon Serves 6 • 2 lb chuck steak, 2-inch squares • 3 tbsp olive oil • 1 medium onion, sliced • 1 tbsp flour • 425 ml red Burgundy • 2 cloves garlic, chopped • 2 sprigs fresh thyme • 1 bay leaf • 12 oz button onions • 8 oz streaky bacon, cubed • 4 oz dark flat mushrooms

Preheat the oven to 140°C. Cut the beef into 2-inch squares, and sear them in 2 tablespoons of oil.

Remove from the casserole, then fry the sliced onion until brown. Return the meat to the casserole and add the flour, stirring well. Gradually add the Burgundy, stirring all the time. Season, add the garlic and herbs, and put the lid on. Cook for 2 hours. Fry the button onions and bacon in the remaining oil. Add them to the casserole, together with the mushrooms. Cook for 1 hour with the lid on. Serve with creamed potatoes or brown rice. 

48

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

RECIPES

Chicken in a pot Serves 4

• 3½ lb chicken, whole • 3 tbsp olive oil • 1 clove garlic, crushed • 12 button onions • 8 oz streaky bacon, diced • 4 medium carrots, chopped • 4 small turnips, quartered • 2.75 ml dry white wine • 425 ml chicken stock • Small bunch parsley stalks • 2 sprigs fresh thyme • 1 bay leaf • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Sear the whole chicken in the oil. Remove from the casserole and then fry the garlic, onions and bacon.

Remove from the casserole, then fry the carrots and turnips. Push the vegetables to the sides with the garlic, onions and bacon, and sit the chicken in the centre. Pour in the wine, stock and herbs, season and simmer. Cook for 30 minutes with a piece of foil over the chicken breast and the lid off. Add the mushrooms, remove the foil and cook for 30 minutes more, basting frequently. Remove the chicken and vegetables from the pot and discard the herbs. Boil the remaining liquid until reduced by a third. Whisk in a flour and butter paste (1 tablespoon plain flour, 1 tablespoon butter) until the sauce thickens. Carve and serve the chicken with the vegetables and the sauce poured over.

Find more classic recipes @ www.arounddb.com

50

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

AWESOME BAMBOO SOCKS THAT GIVE BACK TO CHILDREN IN NEED!

Eureka (bamboo) Socks aren’t just regular socks, but healthy ones thanks to the natural bamboo fibres which make them gorgeous, soft and comfortable and ready for every step they’ll take!

What’s more, we’re 100% committed to the community

ONE PURCHASE= ONE PAIR DONATED

Bamb schoo oo l socks and at hletic socks

Let’s reach our 2018 target together: 100,000 pairs of socks will be donated to children in need.

Order online at

www.eurekasocks.com

HK HAPPENINGS

AIA GREAT EUROPEAN CARNIVAL Central Harbourfront Event Space, Central

Through February 25

www.thestorefront.com

The AIA Great European Carnival merges the best elements of carnival and festival into one amazing outdoor event! Bringing you rides, games, attractions, food, a circus and much more, this is an unmissable winter celebration. For tickets, starting at HK$130, visit www.tgec.asia.

DRAGON AND LION DANCE EXTRAVAGANZA Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Tsim Sha Tsui

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

January 1

LUCKY START

Sha Tin Race Course, Sha Tin Horse racing is serious business in Hong Kong, so why not kick-start 2018 by attending one of the territory’s wellloved Magnificent Race The Chinese www.expats.hk Days.

Club Challenge Cup, a HK G3 race, is a highlight. Expect games, giveaways, entertainment and celebrity appearances. Tickets, starting at HK$10, are available at the door; to find out more, visit entertainment.hkjc.com.

January 1

www.youtube.com

Ring in the New Year by enjoying one of China’s loudest and most colourful events. This popular dance parade features traditional acrobats, as well as dragon and lion dancers. For the first time, troupes from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Bay Area are taking part in the festivities. For more information, visit www.dragonlion.hk.

KIDSFEST! 2018

CATS

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai January 6 - February 11

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui ABA Productions brings you nine fabulous productions for Kidsfest! 2018. The Gruffalo (January 12-14), Hairy Maclary and Friends (January 18-21), Emily Brown and The Thing (January 19-21), Ugly Duckling (January 25-28), Monstersaurus (January 2628), I Believe in Unicorns (February 1-4), Dinosaur Zoo www.aba-productions.com (February 2-4), What The Ladybird Heard (February 8-11) and Lost and Found (February 10-11). For more information, visit www.kidsfest.com.hk. For tickets, starting at HK$195, visit  www.hkticketing.com.

January 12 - February 11

blog.superbreak.com

Join the Jellicle Cats as they come out to play in a largerthan-life junkyard on the night of the Jellicle Ball. One of the longest running shows in West End and Broadway history, CATS has won numerous awards, including Oliver and Tony awards for Best Musical. For tickets, starting at HK$445, visit www.hkticketing.com.

www.arounddb.com January 2018

53

HK HAPPENINGS

2 TALES 2 CITIES

Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wanchai 2 Tales 2 Cities, produced January 13-14

by The Performers Studio Theatre Company, comprises two short poignant dramas in one.

Victoria Heights centres on Jake, a nine-year-old boy, who is tormented by playground bullies; The Struggles follows Megan, www.wikimedia.org 14-year-old as she learns to cope with dyslexia and ADD. For tickets, priced at HK$230, visit www.urbtix.hk.

Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com

VOLVO OCEAN RACE AND FESTIVAL Kai Tak Runway Park, Kowloon City January 17-31

HONG KONG MARATHON Victoria Park, Causeway Bay January 21

www.sailing-news.com

www.mybestruns.com

The Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, now recognised as an IAAF Gold Label Road Race, is celebrating its 22nd anniversary. With elite international runners taking part, categories include a full and half marathon, 10-kilometre race, youth dash, family run, and 3-kilometre and 10-kilometre wheelchair races. For more information, visit www.hkmarathon.com.

The round-the-world Volvo Ocean Race is held every three years. This is Hong Kong’s first time as a host city, represented

by Team Sun Hung Kai/ Scallywag. While the racing is centred on Victoria Harbour, you can expect to see Kai Tak Runway Park transformed into an entertainment hub with music, food and fun for the whole family. For more information, visit www.volvooceanracehk.com.

January 25 - 28

LOL WITH KANAN GILL

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai LA Comedy Live is bringing stand-up comedian Kanan Gill to town for one-night only.

Kanan rose to fame with his YouTube series Pretentious Movie Reviews, and since then he has starred in The Living Room on Comedy Central, and made his big-screen debut in Noor in 2017. For tickets, starting at HK$288, visit www.hkticketing.com.

54

January 21 www.wikimedia.org

DISNEY ON ICE

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai

www.wedeside.com

January 2018 www.arounddb.com

Disney on Ice is celebrating 100 years of magical performances. Watch Disney characters young and old take to the ice, as you sing along to over 30 hit songs, including You’ve Got a Friend in Me and Hakuna Matata. For tickets, starting at HK$300, visit www.hkticketing.com.

AROUND DB AND LIFE ON LANTAU

YOUNG WRITERS COMPETITION 2018 NOW OFFICIALLY OPEN!

THE CHALLENGE

Write a 600- to 700-word account describing Lantau life in the future – in 2030.

Open to all secondary school students living and / or studying in Lantau.

DEADLINE:

MARCH 7

Check the YWC guidelines on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook pages or www.arounddb.com.

Submit your article by March 7 to rachel@baymedia.com.hk.

THE REWARD

The winning article is published in the May issue of Around DB and the June issue of Life on Lantau.

There will be prizes for the three winners and three runners-up, provided by Bookazine.

LAST YEAR’S FINALISTS: KAYLA LEE (YHKCC)

JANICE HO (DBIS)

SIENNA BERTAMINI (DBIS)

WORSHIP SERVICE

Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH & TEENS

Pastor James Buckner Tel: 2987 7061

www.dbicc.org

DB FACES

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

Photos by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar! Congratulations to last month’s winner: Brad West (@brad_west_photos)

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!

www.arounddb.com January 2017

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com HEALTH & WELLBEING

VR, HYPNOSIS: INDIVIDUAL &/ OR COUPLES THERAPY

DEADLINE FOR FEBRUARY ISSUE CLASSIFIEDS JANUARY 15

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.

Dr Melanie Bryan, Psy.D. Clinical psychologist, hypnotherapist 2575 7707, www.mindmatters.hk

EMPLOYMENT

DELIVERY PERSON/ MESSENGER

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

TUITION & COURSES

HOME SERVICES 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

FLAT PAINTING & HANDYMAN WORKS

• Painting & handyman works, interior & exterior • PU waterproof injection for external walls • Astro-turfing, tiling & electrics

HOME SERVICES

Contact Roger at 9156 0360, drscompanyhk@gmail.com

AKASH MOVING & HANDYMAN SERVICES

TUITION & COURSES

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

Mandarin CNY Camp Feb 20

th

- Feb 24 th

MANDARIN CHINESE CLASSROOM

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

Any level/ time/ purpose.

In the Greens.

Call 6071 9643, or visit www.dbmandarin.com

LEARN SPANISH

• Native speaker • DELE examiner & experienced teacher • IB, IGCSE, A Level & HKDSE Business Spanish • Courses for adults • Flexible schedule & locations • Special offers for DB & Tung Chung students Contact Erik at 9666 9511, rerikm@hotmail.com

ENGLISH TUTOR/TEACHER

• BA degree in English from a US university • Over 10 years’ teaching & tutoring experience, with children, teens & adults at all levels of fluency • DB-based, flexible schedule & reasonable rates • Learn to understand, speak & write English well • Build confidence & increase your vocabulary • Write better essays & improve schoolwork Call, text or What’s App Charles at 9406 8342

狗 年

大 吉 www.mandarinformunchkins.com

Magazine Online 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

•Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents • Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients • English, Putonghua, Cantonese, Russian, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi speaking counsellors

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

Read the latest community news online.

• This month’s hottest happenings and events in Discovery Bay • Fantastic giveaways, offers and much more!

BLANK

www.arounddb.com

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com

Greenland Pest Control Tailored Pest Control Solutions for Rodent, Cockroaches, Fleas, Mosquitoes, Termites, Ants, Ticks etc‌ For info please call Thomas 9871 0771 or May 9774 3554 Email: greenlandpest@outlook.com

(852) 3126 2331

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

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

2-BED IN CHERISH COURT, DB

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

Contact Jacqueline on 9811 0718, jacquelinedb@gmail.com

LUXURY DB 2-BED

Newly renovated, 2-bed flat with balcony.

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

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 SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS COTTAGE FOR SALE

Charming 3 double-bedroom cottage in the historic spa village of Strathpeffer, Ross-shire for sale. Ideal for walks, golf, fishing & skiing. Airport nearby, reasonable drive to Inverness. Contact evanjones@netvigator.com

BUSINESSES SERVING LANTAU ALC's unique plans provide international private medical insurance cover designed specifically for your needs.

• Large corporate or small groups • Individual or with dependants • Expatriate or local Find out more about what ALC can offer at www.alchealth.com or call 3478 3751 for a tailored quote.

Flight Centre has its flagship stores in Central, Wanchai & Happy Valley. Natalie Flyazhenkova is acting as a mobile consultant in DB, providing residents with face-to-face consultations. For an appointment with Natalie, contact 2829 2006 or natalie.f@flightcentre.com.hk

Underwritten by Lloyd’s and regulated in Hong Kong and the UK.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Contact us to promote your business servicing Lantau.

Prices start at just HK$500.

Email info@baymedia.com.hk.

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

LANTAU NUMBERS

TUNG CHUNG

SOUTH LANTAU FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel

2428 2566 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

Airport Izakaya Andante Café Aficionado Chef’s Choice China Coast Bar & Grill Curry Lounge Dosirak House Essence Federal Palace Restaurant Kimos Mansarover Indian Cuisine McDonald’s Delivery Melody Thai My Thai Olea PizzaExpress Pizza Hut Delivery Regala Café & Dessert Bar Resto Rouge Skycity Bistro Tung Chung Pizza Zentro Garden

2286 6668 3602 8828 2286 6238 6504 4208 2286 6898 2960 1977 3520 0848 3602 8808 2626 0181 2886 3646 2109 1927 2338 2338 2988 8129 2907 6918 3602 8818 2297 3588 2330 0000 2286 6618 2886 3156 2286 6868 3969 2500 2466 1010 2802 8000 HEALTH & WELLBEING

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

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

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488 HOTELS

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

3969 1888 3602 8888 2286 8888

LEARNING CENTRES

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

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

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

Asia Pacific Soccer Schools Caribbean Coast Club House Coastal Skyline Club House Dance for Joy Edge ’n Pointe Dance Centre 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

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1999

Bahce - Turkish Restaurant Café Bar Bathers Caffe Paradiso (Tom’s Café) Cafe Isara China Bear Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar Di Jerk Shed Kebab Korner La Pizzeria Lantana Italian Bistro Long Island Mavericks Restaurant Mucho Gusto Robert’s Market Stoep @ High Tide Restaurant The China Beach Club The Gallery The Kitchen The Water Buffalo

2984 0222 2504 4788 2984 0498 2470 1966 2984 9720 3484 3095 2234 5375 6429 3507 2984 8933 5465 5511 2320 2001 5662 8552 6422 5009 9193 2937 2980 2699 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2109 3331

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Jill Marshall Pilates Kremer Method/ Bowen Therapy South Lantau Paddle Club Thai Palin Massage Thai Sa Baai Tony’s Salon Treasure Island

9708 0187 9827 9911 9688 9112 9062 0148 5228 6552 2984 0990 2546 3543 HOME & REPAIRS

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

2984 8334 2984 8487 2984 1802 2984 9833 9783 5840 HOTELS

Mui Wo Inn Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

2984 7225 6810 0111 2985 8383 LEARNING CENTRES

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

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

PROPERTY AGENCIES

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

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

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

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

SERVICES & OTHERS

Jumping Castles SPCA Miriam Safadi Photography Parteezi Phoenix Wills

9662 1747 2984 0060 5145 0227 6112 9842 6108 8471 TRANSPORTATION

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

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

DB NUMBERS

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

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

2987 2259 2987 2987 2987 2987 2666 2834 2537 2987 2987 2468 2259

0855 3422 9909 8136 7061 5633 6183 7276 1087 7575 9003 3577 3422

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES Action X, North Plaza Little Whale Nomadic

Future Stars Dance Academy

GOODWINS OF LONDON

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

2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

Quality dry cleaning at affordable prices. Pick-up and delivery from DB every Wednesday and Friday.

2812 2400 drycleaning@goodwinsoflondon.com

Native English Language Tutor (TEFL) 10 years+ experience, including ESF. Improve your or your child’s written or spoken English.

Advice and practice on: interview techniques; exam preparation; social and business conversation; support of class lessons.

Lessons tailored to suit individual needs.

5972 6969 englishtutorDB@gmail.com

3102 2977 5690 4960 2987 8460

The Beat

2987 2792 2987 2448 2987 2947

Tree of Joy

Latin & Ballroom classes for adults and children, Zumba, Pilates, Piloxing, Yoga, Beat Cardio Fusion, Belly Dance and many more...

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

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

OTHER SERVICES

LEARNING CENTRES

COMMUNITY & HEALTH

4401 0530 7486 1180 4089 9092

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

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

FINANCIAL SERVICES

The Stephen Putnam Practice Private Client Wealth Management Tel: 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

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

DB Party Time Gillian florist, North Plaza Mypetshop, North Plaza P-Solution Pen’n Paper Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

9502 2529 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987 2987

2381 8256 8873 1777 8898 0428 1368 5151

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS

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

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

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

Harvey Law Group An International Law Firm in DB North Plaza providing a wide range of commercial and personal legal services.

2416 8618 dboffice@harveylawcorporation.com www.harveylawcorporation.com

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

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

3709 6114 2914 2987 3969 2987 2987 2914 2987 2987 2987 9366 6302 2416 2459 8191 6114 9327 2480 2628 2987 2987 6341 2987 9648

8466 2436 2142 7331 1000 8088 8088 2202 1201 4338 9644 0000 6327 3088 8808 0813 2436 0507 3909 3362 8608 8143 3989 4217 2966

MULTIMEDIA Bookazine Fotomax (F.E.) Ltd

2987 1373 2914 2378

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

2987 2987 2987 2987 2987

8484 2023 2088 2987 6238

FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS

Nura Rolls Over 60 varieties of rolls. Outside catering and home delivery available.

G13A, North Plaza, (Next to Wellcome) Tel: 2652 6613 www.nurarolls.com 22º North Auberge Discovery Bay (Hotel), North Plaza Café Bord de Mer & Lounge Café Duvet Caffe Pascucci Cali-Mex Coyote Mexican Cantina Chef’s Choice, North Plaza Ebeneezer’s Figos Seaside Café First Korean Restaurant

2987 2295 2295 2987 2591 2904 2987 2172 2987 2987 2987

2298 8288 8299 0966 1426 7698 2848 6111 0036 2915 9123

DB NUMBERS FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS Fresh Fruit Juice Paradise Hemingway’s by the Bay il Bel Paese Island Café Jaspa’s, North Plaza 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 Salt & Pepper Solera Subway The Pier Bar Uncle Russ, DB Plaza Uncle Russ, North Plaza Zak’s

TRANSPORT SERVICES

2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 0767 2987 1829 2987 8280 2987 1337 2987 6318 2987 1662 2673 4445 2500 1950 2465 2426 2336 8001 2555 0772 2914 0005 2520 2166 2682 0068 2682 8110 2987 6232

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

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

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

Greenwich specialises in yoga and kickboxing classes designed for kids, women, men and seniors.

No package, no joining fee system.

9685 8366 www.greenwich-vinyasa.com.hk.

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

Vikings Football Club Professional Soccer Coaching From ages 18 months to 12 years Tel: 9533 2600 vikingshk@hotmail.com www.vikings.hk 2911 2987 6473 2517 2987 2987 2987 6624 2441 8197

4833 7382 4277 8248 9591 7273 7381 8712 0098 5591

TOYS & KIDS’ PARTIES Bo Bo House Little Whale, North Plaza Toysland

DB Golf Cart Services DB Transit Services DB Transportation Services Hire Car Bookings Limousine Rental Passenger Telephone Hotline Wiselink Golf Cart Services

2914 2914 2987 2987 5303 2987 2987

2727 0186 7351 6348 3489 0208 9368

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

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

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

VIEW THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY @ www.arounddb.com

WELLBEING

Elly House of Beauty As DB’s very own highly-skilled skincare specialist, Elly House of Beauty is committed to providing the most effective skincare services to the community. fb.me/ellyAvbeauty/ www.ellyhouseofbeauty.com 6131 9039

Greenwich Vinyasa

Action X, North Plaza Club Siena DBees Ice Hockey DB Pirates Rugby Football Club Discovery Bay Marina Club Discovery Bay Golf Club Discovery Bay Recreation Club Embody EpicLand YogaUp

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

2987 4230 3480 1348 2987 7859

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

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

2987 0614

Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care Nest Care, North Plaza Salon De Coiffure Sense of Touch

2987 2987 2499 2987 2987

0283 2060 8826 4112 9198

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

www.arounddb.com

OUT THERE

H

appiness in 2018?

Despite the hoopla that swamps us, there are no degrees of happiness or contentment, not this year or next. For happiness in the 21st century, try advertising based on fear or guarantees of perfect bliss, and you’ve pretty well covered all the utopian hype ever invented.

Happiness as a commodity can be bought and sold: Get Wonder Woman Anti-ageing Cream, or you’ll be unwanted and alone at 22; buy Triad Casino Insurance, or you’ll wind up broke and homeless; take a Pointless Cruise to Nowhere for memories so vivid, you’ll believe you’re retired in Tahiti with Miss Universe.

Contentment for me is less complicated.

Happiness, or at least one form of it, weighs 6.5 kilogrammes. That’s my backpack, when I check in at the airport to go hiking.

The standard free baggage allowance used to be 20 kilogrammes. Today it’s 30, with ‘stuff’ freaks arriving with five suitcases and a belligerent argument. If they could take a hundred it wouldn’t suffice, what with a complete wardrobe for Abu Dhabi, Antarctica and the sodden hills of Assam, plus a lumbering labyrinth of electronic paraphernalia to see them through the next few generations of techno gossip.

Photo courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

A preoccupation with weightlessness

64

For me, stuff became more burdensome than a full-time job. The backpack obsession began ages ago on the Camino de Santiago trail,

Lighten your load Are you hoping to take life a little easier in 2018?

Peter Sherwood reveals that a happy new year weighs in at 6.5 kilogrammes

where everyone was fixated by the load on their back. An American I walked with had a super-light bag made specially. He had even cut half the handle off his toothbrush; a neat Himalayan trick but a bit over the top for 30 kilometres a day on the plains of Spain. That his pack weighed less than mine was testament to a preoccupation with weightlessness you’d find only at NASA. Still, I outpaced him, leaving him in the dust after sneaking out of the dorm at 3am and hitting the road.

Disgraceful, I know, but I have enough trouble dealing with my contumacious self to worry about the injured feelings of an annoyingly monomaniacal Yank.

I’ve discussed such weighty matters with numerous trail walkers. They are all surprised at

how little it takes to have the best month of their lives: a few Euros, a change of clothes, Band Aids and, in my case, a handkerchiefsize towel. What more could anyone need? But meaningful philosophy is easily overwhelmed by a return to the daily round, and the inevitable daily accumulation of junk.

A few weeks ago, the couple next door moved out of their 850-squarefoot flat. Downstairs, a removal man was counting the boxes: 183, plus enough furniture to fill the Palace of Versailles. Having chucked out all my books a few years back, I was elated to find I could move home with a backpack and a supermarket trolley. So here’s my advice: If you’re pursuing happiness in 2018, don’t stash it, trash it (in the appropriate recycling bin, of course). Happy New Year!

Peter Sherwood has lived in DB for 18 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 January 2018 www.arounddb.com

GET A WILL IN LESS THAN A WEEK It’s never too late to put a Will in place.

Take it easy and feel safe in the knowledge that your loved ones are covered should the worst happen. Be prepared - contact us today.

"Wishing Yo u a Ver y Happy New Year"

WHAT IS EFFECTIVE ESTATE PLANNING? “Effective Financial Planning is to speed up the overall distribution of your estate; and to mitigate unwarranted taxes whilst providing the right people with the right money at the right time!”

- Annette M Houlihan

How does one do this?

Writing your Will - If you die with a Will in Hong Kong, the Grant of Probate (a legal document releasing your assets) can take months. Without one, it can take years!

Setting up a Family Trust - Trusts can be used for Tax Mitigation, Asset Protection and/or Succession Planning and are not just suitable for the wealthy.

Nominate Beneficiaries - If you have any life insurance plans, savings plans linked

to life insurance or are a member of a company pension or death in service benefit, you can have beneficiaries nominated to speed the process of distribution.

Updating and Reviewing - As you acquire assets globally; you should review your estate planning instructions.

We at Carey, Suen Will Services Limited have the knowledge and expertise to assist you in establishing your own estate plan.

Carey, Suen Will Services Ltd

8B Wing Yee Commercial Building 5 Wing Kut Street Central Tel: +852 2542 2285 email: annette@careysuen.com website: www.careysuen.com