Around DB March Issue 2017

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

MARCH 2017

PHOTOGRAPHY TUTORIAL

Tips, tricks and techniques

Bringing the past to life

Polish recipes to try at home

FUN IN THE SUN

Child-friendly mini-breaks

Let’s Dance!

THE FEEL-GOOD APPROACH TO FITNESS ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

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RENTALS/SALES

MARCH 2017 NT

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愉景廣場 DB PLAZA

Gross: 594’ Saleable: 464’

$18.5K

3

Great studio space and in a very convenient location.

1

Gross:1026’ Saleable: 924’

海寧居 LA VISTA 2

33K

倚濤軒 CRESTMONT 3

Spacious living and in a tranquil location.

Walking distance to DB plaza and pier.

Gross: 1298’ Saleable: 1108’

45K

Nicely renovated lowrise with big garden, spacious living and great for entertaining.

2

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觀景樓 CLEAR VIEW 2 2

Gross: 1191’ Saleable: 948’

Gross: 1616’ Saleable: 1520’

45K 畔山徑 MIDDLE LANE

Stunning combined unit with large terrace overlooking the bay. Stunning open kitchen. One of a kind!

3 2

68K

Huge garden lowrise with amazing sea view, spacious living and in a tranquil location.

海澄湖畔二段 SIENA TWO 4

Gross: 1732’ Saleable: 1384’

$21M/$72K

Lowrise duplex renovated with fully equipped open kitchen. Close to all bus routes and North Plaza.

3

NK BA N W IO LO AT BE ALU V

畔峰 MIDVALE 1

Gross: 570’ Saleable: 453’

$3.8M

Renovated studio flat in a tranquil location.

Full green views. Vacant sale.

海堤閣 COSTA COURT 2 1

Gross: 760’ Saleable: 628’

$7M

Very nice apartment, balcony with great sea view, walking distance to DB plaza and pier. Vacant sale!

康慧台 HILLGROVE 2

Gross: 919’ Saleable: 776’

$8.2M

Tastefully refurbished apartment, modern open kitchen, very close to DB plaza and pier. Don’t miss!

2

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頤峰 GREENVALE 4 3

Gross: 1644’ Saleable: 1406’

$11.8M

Beautifully combined unit. Modern kitchen and in a convenient location for all bus routes. For sale with Tenancy.

海峰徑 SEABEE 4 4

Gross: 1642’ Saleable: 1406’

$23M

Spacious family size penthouse with roof terrace. Great for entertaining. Vacant sale!

海蜂徑 SEABEE 4 3

Gross: 3100’ Saleable: 2403’

36M

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

www.headlandhomes.hk

2987 2088

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Canadian International School of Hong Kong For further information about the Upper School or to register for a weekly tour, please call 2525 7088 or visit

Student bus service between Pier 3 and CDNIS available.

CDNIS is strategically located near the newly opened Wong Chuk Hang MTR station.

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Covering: Discovery Bay | Gold Coast | Aberdeen | New Territories

CONTENTS March 2017

PROFILE

TALKING POINTS

Dancing duo Alyona and Ivailo of The Beat

Guide dog user rights

30

48

IN FOCUS

ESCAPES

Photography tips from top DB shooters

Child-friendly holiday destinations

34 FAMILY MATTERS Why teaching history is important

54

REGULARS 27

GIVEAWAYS Win big prizes

51

PARENTING Hacking clutter

59

RECIPES Taste of Poland

69

DB FACES Community snaps

80

OUT THERE Island life

AGENDA 10

DB EVENTS

65

HK HAPPENINGS

70

CLASSIFIEDS

75

PROPERTY

77

LOCAL NUMBERS

ON THE COVER

For the latest Around DB updates, find us on:

Dance your way to fitness!

To read the cover story, turn to page 30

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

MARCH 2017

PHOTOGRAPHY TUTORIAL

Tips, tricks and techniques

Bringing the past to life

Polish recipes to try at home

44

www.arounddb.com Publishers in Lantau since 2002

FUN IN THE SUN

Child-friendly mini-breaks

Let’s Dance!

THE FEEL-GOOD APPROACH TO FITNESS ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

FREE

We also publish…

February/ March 2017

WIN!

tickets to the Longines Masters of Hong Kong and a dining voucher for two at Curry Lounge

RED ALERT

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

Join your community online

Photo by Baljit Gidwani www.evoqueportraits.com

ISLAND-WIDE AIR POLLUTION

VALENTINE’S RUN

TALK ABOUT THE PASSION

UKULELE REVIVALIST FOOTLOOSE ON THE LANTAU TRAILS

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

PUBLISHER Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk MANAGING EDITOR Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk ASSISTANT EDITOR Sam Agars sam@baymedia.com.hk DIGITAL STRATEGIST & COORDINATOR Claire Severn claire@baymedia.com.hk SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrew Spires andrew@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 Monika Carruthers Kate Farr Trisha Hughes Patricia Jover Elizabeth Kerr Katrina Mercado (intern) Peter Sherwood

PRINTING Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road Aberdeen, 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.

Š BAY MEDIA GROUP LTD

Photos by Neo Comia, Ben Lee, James Branch, Sharon McEneff, Atika Sandham and Richard Appleby

DB PIRATES RUGBY The Discovery Bay Pirates All-Girls Beach Festival saw both rugby and netball light up Tai Pak Wan on January 21 and 22, with teams from all over Hong Kong converging for an action-packed two days. Then on February 12, the Pirates hosted Tung Chung Rugby Club, the South Lantau Buffaloes and the Macau Bats in an under six, seven and eight tournament.

DB EVENTS

YOUR ROUNDUP

OF RECENT COMMUNIT Y E VENTS

ISLAND DANCERS AT CNY Students, aged eight to 16, from Discovery Bay-based dance school Island Dance put on a show during the Chinese New Year Night Parade at Tsim Sha Tsui on January 28.

Island Dance teamed up with the Ocean Park float to help the Hong Kong icon celebrate its 40th birthday.

Photos by David Feehan

www.arounddb.com March 2017

11

DB EVENTS

DBIS INTERNATIONAL FOOD FAIR The annual DBIS International Food Fair on February 25 saw the DB community indulge in culinary delights from all corners of the globe. There was also music, singing and commercial and charity stalls.

Photos by Around DB

LUNAR NEW YEAR AT DBRC DBers rang in the Year of the Rooster with a fun and meaningful celebration at the Discovery Bay Recreation Club on January 29. www.evoqueportraits.com

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

DB EVENTS

YHKCC BASKETBALL YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College has been having a good time of it on the basketball court of late, with a host of the school’s teams experiencing success in International Schools Sports Federation Hong Kong competitions. The under-20 boys were crowned champions, while the under-20 girls and under-16 boys came first runner-up. The teams have also excelled in the Hong Kong School Sports Federation leagues, with the A-grade boys taking out the district championship and finishing in the top eight in the all-Hong Kong tournament. The A-grade girls finished as second runner-up in the district.

Photos courtesy of YHKCC

ISTA FESTIVAL AT DBIS Discovery Bay International School welcomed schools from around the globe during January for the ISTA Middle School Festival, with the event culminating in a performance on January 22.

Photos by Around DB

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

are playing the

Fringe Dairy 9:30-11:30pm Friday, 21 April 2017

Chill to iconic pop songs with a groovy twist, a favourite beverage, relaxed company, and world class jazz. for more details and bookings please go to our FB page

Scan the code to check out our video on YouTube

Or visit www. youtube.com/watch?v=R_Gov0cd-ro 10-02-2017 AroundDB Spring Menu(Half Page).pdf 1 15/02/2017 18:11:06

SyzygyHongKong

牡丹軒超值春茗晚市套餐推介 Value for Money Spring Dinner Menu

十二位套餐 12 People Set Menu 芝士焗波士頓龍蝦伊麵 Braised E-fu Noodles with Boston Lobster & Cheeses C

M

翡翠帶子貴妃蚌 Sautéed Scallops and Coral Clams with Vegetables

Y

花膠瑤柱羹

CM

Thickened Soup with Fish Maw & Conpoy MY

清蒸沙巴躉

CY

Steamed Sabah Grouper

CMY

四位套餐 $688 八位套餐 $1,288

$688 for 4 people set menus $1,288 for 8 people set menus

另備其他節日菜譜以供選擇，歡迎致電 訂座熱線 2500 1950 或瀏覽 www.dbrc.hk

Options for other Festive Menus are available, please call 2500 1950 or visit www.dbrc.hk for more details!

2500 1950

碧綠花菇螺片

K

Sautéed Sliced Sea Whelk and Black Mushrooms with Vegetable

當紅炸子雞 Crispy Chicken 優惠受條款及細則約束;

$1,988

Terms & Conditions applied; 供應期至2017年3月31日; Menus available from now on until 31 March 2017; 堂食設加15%服務費, 愉景灣康樂會會員可獲豁免。 15% service charge is applied, DBRC members to be waived for the charge.

Photo is for reference only 圖片只供參考

DB EVENTS

Through April 10

YOUNG WRITER’S COMPETITION 2017 Open to students across Lantau

BUS TERMINUS CLOSURE

Photo by Andrew Spires

Discovery Bay’s main bus terminus closed on February 25 to allow improvement works to kick off, meaning all stops have been relocated to temporary locations along Discovery Bay Road. Furthermore, a number of routes have been combined to ensure the temporary stops can accommodate all buses. For more information on how this may impact you, head to https://goo.gl/5FfknA.

Now in its fifth year, the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition (YWC), sponsored by Bookazine, provides secondary school students living and/ or studying in Lantau with the chance to get published. This year, we are asking students to write a 600- to 700-word account from the point of view of a famous historical figure. The deadline is April 10. To enter, check the YWC guidelines at www.arounddb.com or on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook pages.

Throughout March

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.

March 4

STOCK UP AT THE PLANT MARKET

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

March 2

HAPPY DR SEUSS DAY

to all fans of Thing One, The Lorax, Horton and Sam-IAm! Green eggs and ham, anyone?

March 4 & 5

TENNIS NATIONS CUP Discovery Bay Recreation Club

Get down to the 24th edition of DB’s biggest and best tennis event for what is sure to be an action-packed day. DB’s top tennis players are set to showcase their skills, as well as whacky national costumes. Email dbrc-enquiries@dbrc.hk for more information. www.evoqueportraits.com

16

March 2017 www.arounddb.com

March 7 & 23

LEARN ABOUT ESF

YOUR GUIDE

ESF Centre, Quarry Bay

TO UPCOMING

ESF is hosting two seminars this month – the first focuses on learning at ESF kindergarten and primary school levels, while the second explores its secondary curriculum. ESF admissions manager Julie Wong is giving a talk about admissions criteria and procedures at both seminars. Everyone is welcome; visit www.esf.edu.hk/seminars-mar2017 to register.

March 8

Throughout Lantau

THE RACE Discovery College

Photo courtesy of Discovery College

bookazine.com.hk

March 12

Running from 8am to 12.30pm, The Race at Discovery College (DC) is a not-for-profit community sports event set to feature over 500 students from 14 schools across Hong Kong.

All parents and spectators are welcome. Contact Karina Cann at karina.cann@dc.edu.hk for more information.

March 12

JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP,

SHOP THE DISCOVERY BAY SUNDAY MARKET

organised by Plastic Free Seas and DB Green, at Sam Pak Wan from 3pm to 5pm. Visit www.dbgreen.org.

HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE FAIR

Photo courtesy of ESF

March 11

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Happy International Women’s Day to all the fantastic women in DB and Lantau!

To get into the spirit of the day, check out Bookazine’s list of 10 books highlighting the achievements of women across the globe. From now until March 8, 10% of the sale of these books goes to HER Fund, a charity that promotes human rights for women.

COMMUNIT Y EV ENTS

in DB Plaza from 11am to 6pm.

March 12

WISHING LANTAU’S INDIAN COMMUNITY a very happy Holi

Day as they celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of spring with a day of laughter, happiness and, of course, richly coloured powders.

The Park Lane, Hong Kong A leading Hong Kong-based education consultancy that specialises in American studies, 100% of Litz’s students are accepted by their ideal American schools, while 70% successfully enter a Top 100 University. Contact 2391 9713 to attend Litz’s High School and Community College Fair, or visit www.litzusa.com to find out more.

March 13

Photo courtesy of Litz USA

www.wikimedia.org

www.arounddb.com March 2017

17

DB EVENTS March 18 & 19

March 19

OZZIE COZZIE ROADSHOW

DB DOG CARNIVAL

Get ready for the Easter holidays with the latest designs at Ozzie Cozzie’s one-stop swim- and resortwear shop. This is the first pop-up of the year with something on offer for men, women and children.

For more information, call 9462 0352.

The DB Dog Home Sweet Home Carnival, organised by LoveTogether@DB and City Management, runs from 12pm to 4pm and features a dog parade, DB Dog’s Got Talent competition, dog behaviour training and live www.wikimedia.org music and performances. You can also expect art, food and pet booths. All are welcome; contact 2238 3601 to enrol.

OpenSpace, DB North Plaza

Photo courtesy of Ozzie Cozzie

March 21

www.minimalismfilm.com

FILMS 4 CHANGE MOVIE NIGHT Zak’s, DB

Minimalism: A documentary about the important things takes its audience inside the lives of minimalists from all walks of life. The film features families, business people, scientists, artists and more, all of whom are striving to live a meaningful life with less. Showing at 7.30pm, HK$40 donations are welcome at the door. Find out more on the Films 4 Change in DB Facebook page.

March 25

TRAILWAGGER Start: Parkview

T h e f i r s t Tr a i l w a g g e r, started in 2016 by Pui O resident William Sargent, www.arounddb.com saw participants walking their dogs between Mui Wo and DB. This year, the 8-kilometre trail hike starts in Parkview and finishes in Tai Tam, with proceeds going to Animals Asia. To book your spot, HK$350 per adult and HK$280 per child, visit trailwaggerhk.com.

Coming soon

CALI-MEX IS OPENING ON APRIL 10 in DB North Plaza.

Lovers of classic Californian-style Mexican food can find out more at https://cali-mex.com.

18

March 2017 www.arounddb.com

Discovery Bay Central Park

March 21

MARK WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY by donning

colourful or mismatched socks to help raise awareness. Visit www.worlddownsyndromeday.org.

March 25

CELEBRATE WWF’S EARTH HOUR by switching off your lights from 8.30pm to 9.30pm.

Visit www.earthhour.org.

March 27-31

DBIS GREEN WEEK

Discovery Bay International School Green Week sees the Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) community reflect on how it has been addressing conservation and environmental Photo courtesy of DBIS impact, with a look at areas that need development. Green Day on March 28 is the focus for the week and features the 10th annual Green Walking Bus, where early years, primary and secondary students all walk to school together. Find out more at www.dbis.edu.hk.

DB EVENTS

LANTAU HIGHLIGHTS TRANSLANTAU Start: Mui Wo

March 10-12

DASH FOR A BEER Start: Tong Fuk

March 25

www.translantau.com

The ever-popular TransLantau, 90% of which is run on the Lantau trails, has again sold out in quick time. Solo or in teams of two, participants take on either the Ultra 100km (5,800m+ elevation), or the sister races of 50km (2,700m+ elevation) and 25km (900m+ elevation). You can get involved as a volunteer at www.translantau.com.

www.arounddb.com

Registration opened on February 6 for the ninth Lantau International Beer Dash. This hugely popular 5-kilometre run sees participants dress up and drink a different international beer at every checkpoint. Entry costs HK$380 for an individual and HK$1,480 for a team of four. Limited spaces are available, so head to www.active.com to enrol.

SAVE the DATE

NEW in DB

TREASURE ISLAND CAMP

ENGLISH BESPOKE TAILORS

Pui O Beach

www.treasureislandhk.com

Kids, aged eight to 15, can enjoy kayaking, bike tours, hiking and gorging on Treasure Island’s Spring Adventure Camp, April 3 to 7 and April 10 to 14. The week-long day camps include supervised pick up and drop off at Central Ferry Pier, a healthy lunch and snacks, plus one overnight stay. Contact www.treasureislandhk.com, or turn to page 28 to win your child a place.

20

March 2017 www.arounddb.com

www.wikimedia.org

English Bespoke Tailors offers custom-made suits and shirts from a wide range of top-end English and Italian fabrics, all at competitive prices. The service includes twice weekly, door-todoor visits to DB for fittings. Email himarkmt@netvigator.com to find out more or visit www.englishbespoketailors.com.

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

DB EVENTS

NEW in DB TANIA MARTIN EP LAUNCH

FIGHT DEPRESSION READ BOOKS

SAVE LIVES WITH OT&P

Photo courtesy of OT&P www.wikimedia.org

DB resident Maeva Debeauquenne has created a Facebook support group to help people fight depression by reading, talking about books and sharing ideas.

You can also visit Maeva’s Happy Library, at her home, to borrow and exchange books for free. WhatsApp Maeva on 6972 4639 or head to the FIGHT depression READ books Facebook page.

Photo courtesy of Tania Martin

Tania Martin – known to many in DB through her work as a voice teacher – recently released her EP Waterline and single Supergirl. She is now working with Crank Recording on a solo album. Head to www.taniamartinentertainment.com to grab a copy of Waterline and Supergirl.

Learn to respond to any situation by training in CPR, AED and first aid at OT&P Healthcare. The classes are conducted by OT&P’s head nurse, a certified first-aid instructor, who has been with the company for over 20 years.

The schedule is flexible – classes can be held twice a week for a maximum of eight students and a minimum of three. For further information and course fees, call 2468 3577.

CONGRATULATIONS GOLFER TAICHI KHO

RUNNER STEFANO PASSARELO

Photo courtesy of miumiumou www.lalagolf.com

Discovery College student Taichi Kho won his first-ever professional tournament in January, a victory in the open division of the Hong Kong Professional Golfers’ Association’s Order of Merit. Even more impressive was that it was Taichi’s first time playing in a professional event. The 16-year-old was the youngest in the field and one of only four amateurs.

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

DB runner Stefano Passarello was the first finishing local in the Hong Kong Marathon on February 12. Stefano came home in a time of two hours, 32 minutes and 21 seconds in a race won by Ethiopian Bizuneh Melaku Belachew in 2:10:31. It is the third time Stefano has crossed the finish line first for Hong Kong, and he says: “This win is definitely the sweetest as my competitors were much younger than me.”

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 502, 5th Floor, Cambridge House 26-28 Cameron Road TST, Kowloon Hong Kong

English Bespoke Tailors Club of Sartorial Elegance

DMR

School of Ballet Est 1984

“We must view young people not as bottles to be filled but as candles to be lit” - Robert H. Schaffer

Shop 112 DB Plaza, Discovery Bay HK

2987 4338

info@dmr-hk.com - www.dmr-hk.com

Easter Activities EXCITING WAYS TO ARK EDEN, MUI WO 2988 5355, jasmine@arkedenonlantau.com, www.arkedenonlantau.com/AboutUs.html Ark Eden’s day (and overnight) camps are designed to reconnect children, aged five to 12, with nature through education and play. Hands-on environmental activities are offered year-round out of a beautiful and secluded valley in Mui Wo, and from April 3 to 10.

CREATIVE CODING, DB 9469 8225, nora@creativecoding.hk, www.creativecoding.hk Creative Coding’s super-fun Coding and Arduino Robotics Easter Camp runs from April 3 to 7 and April 10 to 14 at Discovery College. The qualified instructors are passionate about teaching kids, aged six to 12, the language of the future.

KEEP YOUR KIDS ENTERTAINED THIS APRIL

The Story Studio

BANANA ART CLUB, DB 6020 5476, bananaartclub@gmail.com, www.bananaartclub.com Banana Art Club’s Easter Art Camp, for kids aged three to 15, is run by experienced art teachers. Classes at Discovery College, April 5, 11 and 12, run from 2.30pm to 4.30pm and include drawing, painting, cartooning, manga, mixed media and clay projects.

CODINGKIDS, DB 6274 1167, twayburne@codingkidshk.com, www.codingkidshk.com CodingKids is offering two camps this Easter, running April 3 to 7 and April 10 to 14. Kids, aged six to 10, can sign up for a Star Wars-themed camp, and kids, aged 10 to 14, can design their own website at Web Creator camp.

EPICLAND, DB 2441 0098, events@epiclandhk.com, www.epiclandhk.com There’s fun for kids of all ages at EpicLand over the Easter period. All-dancing Reggie the Rabbit is hosting a dance competition on April 15 with superfun prizes to be won. Children can also expect face painting and an Easter egg hunt on April 16.

RUMPLE AND FRIENDS, SHEUNG WAN 9830 8287, info@rumpleandfriends.com, www.rumpleandfriends.com For kids aged three to 10, Rumple’s signature circus and magic camp runs from April 3 to 6, and new this year, Rumple’s Play in a Week runs April 10 to 13. Kids can take part as budding actors, puppeteers and adventurers, and get to put on a play with fun costumes and props.

Writing Workshops for Creative Kids

!

THE STORY STUDIO, DB & TUNG CHUNG 6341 3989, thestorystudiohk@yahoo.com, www.thestorystudiohk.com The Story Studio’s creative writing workshops are for imaginative children (aged seven to 13) who love reading and writing stories. The Easter holiday programme runs from April 3 to 13.

TREE OF JOY, DB 9787 2755, info@treeofjoydb.com, www.treeofjoydb.com Tree of Joy’s Easter programme – Morning Easter Fun, Parent-Toddler Class, Afternoon Camp and Cooking Class – runs April 10 to 21 (excluding public holidays). Children, aged two to three-anda-half, experience a fun, engaging and supportive environment in which to play and learn.

OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 9am - 7pm Saturday & Sunday 10am - 7pm Professional nail services in a relaxing environment, conveniently located in the Plaza!

To make a booking please call 2987 2266 Follow us on Facebook for updates: Nailed It DB

GIVEAWAYS

HERE’S YOUR CHANCE TO WIN GREAT PRIZES! Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions right here). You have until the 10th of this month to submit your answers.

To enter, email info@baymedia.com.hk, click on the competitions link at www.arounddb.com, or scan the QR Code below. Don’t forget to give us your name and telephone number!

Win a Faust holiday workshop

When was Faust formed?

YOUR PRIZE: Faust International Youth Theatre is offering one child a place at its Easter holiday workshop (worth HK$2,280) in www.epiclandhk.com Sheung Wan.

FIND THE ANSWER: Teaching the performing arts since 1999, Faust provides a fun-filled learning environment for children aged four to 12.

For more on the Easter programme, running from April 3 to 6 and April 10 to 13, visit www.faustworld.com.hk.

Win tickets to Dr Bunhead’s Blast Off! What is Dr Bunhead’s real name?

www.faustworld.com.hk

Name one workout that Movement Improvement offers.

www.movementimprovement.com.hk

Win fitness classes with Movement Improvement Photo courtesy of Douglas McBride

YOUR PRIZE: ABA Productions is offering one reader four tickets (worth HK$1,736) to see Dr Bunhead’s Blast Off! at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wanchai on May 11 at 5pm.

FIND THE ANSWER: Join Tom Pringle (aka Dr Bunhead) as he takes a joyride through the world of science. This live pyrotechnic extravaganza features the first hamster in space, exploding brains and stunt bananas!

Running from May 11 to 14; for tickets visit www.hkticketing.com.

YOUR PRIZE: Movement Improvement is offering one reader 10 fitness classes (worth HK$1,430). The package, valid for four months, can be used for TRX Pilates, Mat Pilates, Classical Pilates, Video Spin, Spin+, Fatburn Extreme, Circuit training or Yoga.

FIND THE ANSWER: Specialising in Pilates, DB’s Movement Improvement caters to people of all abilities and walks of life. The studio’s accredited staff believes that to achieve your health and fitness goals, you need to train smart – not hard. Find out more at www.movementimprovement.com.hk.  www.arounddb.com March 2017

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GIVEAWAYS

HERE’S YOUR CHANCE TO WIN GREAT PRIZES! Around DB competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions right here). You have until the 10th of this month to submit your answers.

To enter, email info@baymedia.com.hk, click on the competitions link at www.arounddb.com, or scan the QR Code below. Don’t forget to give us your name and telephone number!

Win tickets to King Lear

Who wrote King Lear?

Win a case of champagne from Tanner De Witt How many lawyers work at Tanner De Witt?

www.wikimedia.org

www.faustworld.com.hk

YOUR PRIZE: Faust International Youth Theatre is offering one reader four tickets (worth HK$1,080) to see King Lear at Youth Square, Chai Wan on April 21 at 7.30pm.

FIND THE ANSWER: As relevant now as it was in the 1600s, William Shakespeare’s King Lear explores the fallibility of our leaders and the importance of familial responsibility.

Running from April 21 to 22; for tickets visit www.urbtix.hk.

YOUR PRIZE: Tanner De Witt is offering one reader a case of champagne (worth HK$2,400) delivered to their home in DB. FIND THE ANSWER: Tanner De Witt is an established and recommended independent law firm located in Central.

Its 41 lawyers, many of whom have international law firm backgrounds, receive top ratings from industry publications and work across a wide range of practice areas. To find out more, visit www.tannerdewitt.com.

Win a spring adventure camp at Treasure Island YOUR PRIZE: Treasure Island is offering one child a place at its spring adventure camp (worth HK$4,000) from April 3 to 7 or April 10 to 14.

FIND THE ANSWER: Treasure Island is organising a series of five-day spring adventure camps on stunning Pui O Beach and in the surrounding countryside. Kayaking, bike tours, hiking, gorging and an overnight stay are some of the activities on offer. For more information, visit www.treasureislandhk.com.

Name one activity young campers can enjoy. www.treasureislandhk.com

Congratulations to last month’s winners Terry Fillingham for a one-year DBRC fitness plan; Gloreen Claveria, Chamila Perera, Anne Morris, Joyce Tan and Ruth Ansari for an EpicLand entry pass; Pascal Laroumanie for tickets to see The Tiger Who Came To Tea; and Eunice Albert, Beatrice Kessler, Aleksandra Rodionova, Karen Shum and Emmanuelle Delage for VIP tickets to the Asia Contemporary Art Show.

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

PROFILE

30

Let's

E C N

A D

Alyona Zarnitsyna and Ivailo Tonchev’s passion for ballroom dancing is allowing them to expand DB’s fitness landscape. Elizabeth Kerr reports

March 2017 www.arounddb.com

Alyona Zarnitsyna and Ivailo Tonchev aim to get DBers fit, one dance step at a time

I

t’s a bright, pleasant morning in DB Plaza, and fairly subdued for a Saturday. Alyona Zarnitsyna comes barrelling towards the ferry pier decked out in short leggings and tank top, gear most of us would scamper home in lest someone sees us. But Alyona carries it off like the retired pro ballroom dancer she is. A lilting, Russianaccented greeting accompanies crystalline blue eyes that would shame Paul Newman, and this writer feels like Chewbacca standing next to her. It’s hard on the ego.

Things get worse at The Beat Dance and Fitness Studio, co-founded with husband and fellow dancer Ivailo Tonchev last September. A zumba class is in full swing – as diverse a group of people as you’ll ever see are pounding on the professional-grade floor – and Ivailo hovers nearby. He looks like a retired Armani Uomo model; no man should look so polished in sweat pants. It’s going to be a long morning.

Later on, it’s easy to see why Alyona rushed to the pier. She and Ivailo aren’t the types to vanish after a class, and neither are their clients. There’s much lingering and chatting after workouts, and both Ivailo and Alyona encourage it. It’s one of the reasons the office-kitchen is there. “I don’t like that feeling of going in, doing your exercise and then leaving. If you come here, I want you to stay a little longer,” says Alyona.

Love at first sight The story of how Ivailo, 37, and Alyona, 36, met is a complicated one. Ivailo, a native of Sofia but raised in Burgas, Bulgaria, visited his dad in Moscow in 1999, aged 19, following a split from his dance partner at home. Liking the city’s size and opportunities, he opted to hang around and see if he could find

a new partner. Then in 2001, Alyona relocated to Moscow from her Novokuznetsk home in southwestern Siberia (closer to Ulaanbaatar than to Moscow) after splitting with her partner of 11 years. She was pondering hanging up her shoes when a mutual friend – in Hong Kong – made the professional connection.

When they finally met, it was Nureyev and Fonteyn, Astaire and Rogers… Swayze and Grey right off the bat.

years, but we didn’t want to miss that last train,” Ivailo says with a laugh. “We were already quite well ranked in the world; we were happy with our careers. DB was love at first sight.”

Alyona was the one who had to make the big move when the pair first partnered, but she had no trouble with that; water suits her.

The family – which includes fiveyear-old Polina and year-old Yana – frequently holiday on the Black Sea, and of Moscow, she sniffs: “Moscow was great in many ways, but I always wanted to live by the water, by the sea.”

’’ Oddly, the duo’s professional career, which included a top-24 finish at

Dancing to the beat

If more men started dancing, the world would be a more beautiful place

The Beat came into being after the pair had bought an apartment in DB and spent two years running classes in floating locations.

“We felt, straightaway, we wanted to have a dance studio here. The lifestyle is very healthy and fitness orientated, and we thought maybe we should offer all forms of dance with fitness – like zumba and yoga. We just knew this was what DB needed,” recalls Ivailo.

the Blackpool Dance Festival, the Mecca of competitive ballroom dancing, was actually not that long, almost three years. “We had success right away but we felt like we met not to be professional dancers, but for something more,” Ivailo says.

“Fate wanted us to be a couple not only professionally but in real life.”

Though Ivailo had been in and out of the SAR for a decade, the pair settled down in Discovery Bay around 2010 and that was it. “Six years ago we decided to start a family. This is where we decided to retire from professional dancing. It was time. We wanted kids, and we could have pushed for another few

One day, Alyona hopes the studio will be the go-to spot in DB for, well, everything. “You want to dance? Come to The Beat. You want to exercise? Come to The Beat. You want to relax, talk, get nutritional advice? We want to provide the whole package about health and lifestyle. That’s the goal.

Who knows what will happen in the future. Maybe we’ll have another location in Central. But for now we’re quite happy.”

At the moment, The Beat offers everything from belly dance to the high-intensity Fatburn Extreme, and welcomes kids and adults (guilt-free mum and baby classes) 

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PROFILE

of all ages. Both have a fondness for the flamboyant Latin dances: Ivailo’s soft spot is for the Paso Doble, Alyona loves them all, dependent on her mood.

“Today I like cha-cha. I feel playful and active,” she explains.

“Tomorrow I might like rumba.”

They also have some words for the retrograde idea of dance (or figure skating) as too ‘feminine’ for men. “If my daughter came from kindergarten and said ‘Papa, pink is for girls.’ I’d say no. Those are labels that restrict you. I see so many men come to dance –

dragged by their girlfriends – and eventually they fall in love with it,” Ivailo argues.

Alyona is more direct. “If more men started dancing, the world would be a more beautiful place.”

Finally, for those toying with the idea of taking up salsa, Ivailo and Alyona insist you’re never too old

or too uncoordinated. Some of us are blessed with an innate sense of rhythm, but that’s beside the point.

“Sometimes you have talented people who don’t feel it’s a big deal. Other people are not ‘born’ to be dancers, but they love it, and they want to give it a try no matter what,” says Ivailo. “They’ll improve because they enjoy the process, and the struggle, and the challenge.” So. Shall we dance?

FIND IT • The Beat Dance and Fitness Studio, www.thebeat.com.hk

Find more local heroes @ www.arounddb.com

CLUB SIENA

EASTER CAMP 3rd To 13th April 2017 SUMMER TERM 6th March To 24th June 2017

IN FOCUS

Photos courtesy of Baljit Gidwani, Tim Draper and Colin Sim

ARTISTIC VISION

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F

Sharing the tricks of the trade with Sam Agars , three top local photographers explain just what it takes to capture that perfect shot

or many, taking a good photo can be a pretty illusive pursuit. Despite the advancement of technology making it ever easier to capture the right snap, some of us still struggle to get it right. But the reality is that the difference between an ordinary photo and an excellent one is not much. With most phones having quality cameras on them nowadays, everyone, with the right advice, should be able to get a shot they are happy with.

DB is a hotspot for photography and there are some extremely gifted photographers in our midst. Baljit Gidwani, Tim Draper and Colin Sim are three such talents and here, each of them discusses the merits of a photo that is personally meaningful to them, while providing tips on how it was achieved. Though you may not get to their level, their advice could help you transform what would have been a run-of-the-mill snap into a thing of beauty.

March 2017 www.arounddb.com

Baljit Gidwani, www.evoqueportraits.com

Girl (2009), Ajit Gidwani

Kathmandu (2013), Tim Draper

From the heart Most readers will be familiar with Baljit’s photography if not through his DB-based photography studio Evoque Portraits then through the pages of Around DB. Here he has chosen to discuss a photo taken by his son Ajit in 2009 (opposite). According to Baljit, his son, then aged 18, used only a pocket Panasonic camera set on auto to capture this striking portrait of a young girl in Delhi.

“Ajit did not know anything at all about the technology or settings, nor ‘photography,’” Baljit says. “He shot this purely as he saw it – from the heart. It just shows, when you ‘feel’ it, you can shoot it.”

While having a natural affinity with the camera isn’t a skill that can be taught, and being able to fully engage with your subject doesn’t happen at every shoot, the insider tips that Baljit shares with his students will help put wannabe photographers on the right track.

“When taking photos of kids or people substantially shorter than you, get down to their level so your camera is at the same height as their face.

Don’t shoot ‘down' at them,” he says.

“Some of the best shots are of kids interacting with other kids and not looking straight into the camera lens.

Keep on shooting for that relaxed candid shot – often the first few frames

are tense. And ask the kids to say something – this loosens the muscles around the mouth and makes the smile more relaxed.”

More generally, Baljit – a 31-year DB resident – recommends that, when shooting portraits, you should zoom in to the maximum extent of your lens and move away from your subject (if necessary). “This will help to reduce the amount of background in the photo and also blur the background around your subject, making your subject stand out more,” he says.

“If your camera has it, find and learn how to use the Exposure Compensation function,” Baljit adds. “It will save all those photos with bright back lighting where your subject is too dark.”

Kathmandu magic

Tim Draper, a three-month Tung Chung resident, who runs photography classes in DB through his business Tim Draper Photography, has chosen to discuss a photo he took in 2013 (above) – a cityscape overlooking Durbar Square in Kathmandu.

“The reason I personally like this image is that for me it captures not just a moment, but a little part of the atmosphere and the magic of Kathmandu,” Tim says. “The blurred lights of traffic and the hustle-bustle movement of people going about their early evening business is all here in the picture.

Each time I look at this image I notice some new detail that I hadn’t seen before.”

Tim says the photo was taken at dusk, with a balanced evening light complemented by illuminated streets, shops and house windows.

“I used a tripod and a long exposure to blur the lights of passing traffic, the image is perfectly sharp and clear of noise (which often occurs in low-light photography),” he says.

“I like the fact that the eye of the viewer is drawn over the image, wandering through the picture, following various leading lines and pathways.”

Tim Draper, Lifehouseimage Facebook page

To capture an image like this, Tim recommends nothing short of good old-fashioned hard work. “In 

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IN FOCUS

the age of continuous snapping, spending a little time and thought on your subject and its composition goes a long way,” he says.

“The more you consider what you want in your photograph and how you want the finished image to look, the better your photography will become,” Tim advises. “Think about your frame and the lines and objects within it. Try to see things through your camera in a different way, consider reflections, repeating patterns, symmetry, balance and alignments within your image.

“Read up on composition, understand basic photographic ideas, such as the ‘rule of thirds’ but don’t be contained by such things, be ready to disregard all you have been told to do if you feel so inclined.”

Family moment

Playing in the waves (2015), Colin Sim

2015 (above), that tells the story of a father and daughter interacting at the beach.

“I chose this image as it showcases good composition and technical ability,” he says. “It uses the rule of thirds for the placement of the main subjects, has a raised and level horizon plus a leading line coming in from the bottom left corner drawing you in.

“Using shutter priority at 1/ 4000 second, I was able to freeze the water droplets while capturing the feeling of movement,” five-year DB resident Colin adds. “The light source from behind created a pleasing silhouette by under exposing both subjects.

It required many shots, using the fastest possible shutter speed, to capture this final image leading to a very tired dad and happy daughter

Colin Sim, www.colsimphotography.com

Colin Sim, a former pupil of Tim’s, who now runs the Discovery Bay Photography Club, has put forward a photo taken in Pui O in

and it was lots of fun.”

“I probably took 150 images on burst-mode and asked my friend to keep running back and forth until I was happy I had a decent image,” Colin says with a grin.

Speaking more generally, Colin feels it is crucial to get to know your camera and to take your camera everywhere if you want to land that perfect shot.

“A better camera will not make you take better photos,” he says. “Only if you take the time to understand your camera and what the functions are will you be able to maximise its full potential. Throw away that big manual and search for online tutorials to help you. Step away from auto-mode and tell the camera what you want it to do.”

Discovery Bay International School is running an environmentally themed photography competition to encourage its primary school students to get behind the lens. You can look forward to viewing the winning photos in the May issue of Around DB and on www.arounddb.com.

Follow Around DB on Instagram to win prizes! Every month, we ask readers to share a photo taken in DB or Lantau on the @around_db Instagram page and hashtag it #arounddb. This is your chance to get your photo published in the magazine, and win prizes from Uncle Russ or The Pier Bar. To see this month’s winning snap, turn to page 69.

Find more topical local topics @ www.arounddb.com

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

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IN MEMORY

Mark O’Reilly

“A

n amazing man who filled the lives of many with love, laughter and fun. He will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.” It’s clear that Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) teacher Sarah Beattie speaks for many when she pays tribute to her colleague and friend Mark O’Reilly, who tragically passed away while on a school ski trip in Switzerland in early February.

Photo courtesy of Helen and Adam Reid

A warm and thoughtful person who loved hiking and travelling, Mark left an imprint on every single person he met. The tributes have come in thick and fast for the DBIS teacher, who had an immeasurable impact on the school community in his nearly five years there. Head of School Paul Tough says Mark was very engaged in his teaching and highly involved in the school.

“Mark was a very warm and humble person,” Paul says. “He was a soulful and gentle man who was softly spoken. He was very highly respected amongst the teaching staff, the students and the parents. He was the epitome of a great teacher to be honest. He was calm and had a quiet demeanour, as well as a brilliant sense of humour.”

From Ireland, Mark was a maths teacher, a form

A tribute tutor and also coached football at the school. The eldest son of Brian and Teresa O’Reilly, Mark had three siblings – Amanda, Aaron and Melissa. DBIS held a memorial service for Mark on February 19, with many of his friends from places like Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur flying in to pay their respects.

For Sarah, Mark was the best friend anyone could ask for. “He had so many qualities that made him such a special person,” she says. “Friends and family meant a lot to Mark and he had strong relationships with

so many people in Ireland, Hong Kong and around the world. When you think of Mark you think of a warm, friendly person who was always great fun to be around.

He was caring, compassionate and considerate.”

Sarah says Mark possessed an innate love of learning and was studying for a Masters of Education, while his love for travel and “all things fun”, including karaoke, was ever present.

“He has seen so many places and left his footprint in many hearts,” Sarah says.

“His life in Hong Kong couldn’t be more different than what he left behind [in Ireland]. The windy country roads of Bunnoe weren’t enough to keep Mark’s appetite satisfied.

As his mother said, Mark has always been attracted to the bright lights, which is quite fitting as Mark was a bright light that lit up any room he stepped foot in.

Mark in Beijing in February, 2014

“Hong Kong definitely won’t be the same for many people without him here,” Sarah concludes.

“His family were proud and always admired the amount of travel Mark managed to do in such a short time. He enjoyed having a good laugh and he entertained many with his fantastic ability to tell a story and with his hilarious impersonations.”

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Illustration by Fred Boot, photos courtesy of www.pixabay.com and Trisha Hughes

FAMILY MATTERS

44

LEARNING FROM

THE PAST

Acknowledging the importance of history to a child’s education, Trisha Hughes, one of this year’s mentors in the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition, explains why the best stories never get old

March 2017 www.arounddb.com

We need to share our knowledge of history in a way that will be engaging

W

hen I was at school, history lessons – learning about the Magna Carta, the Battle of Hastings, Agincourt, Bosworth and Bannockburn along with the names of unknown kings fighting unknown battles in unknown places – were the most boring I could imagine. They were just names and dates but I had to remember them because I knew that in a very short time, there would be a test. In the back of my mind was the question: ‘Why do I have to learn about this when I’ll never use it again when I grow up?’And you can be sure our children’s minds work the same way as ours did.

The importance of teaching history History not only provides us with a nostalgic glimpse of how things used to be but its lessons can teach us things that are important for life today. History can be the richest of all stories, the saddest of stories and the most shocking of stories. It’s a story of all people, in all places, at all times and because we know of that history, we can decide what may happen in the future.

Considering the greed that caused The War of the Roses, the family misunderstandings that caused the First World War and the need for power that caused the Second World War, who would want to repeat them?

As the Spanish philosopher George Santayana said: “Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

Bringing history to life The way our children absorb information is undergoing a rapid transformation. Images, video, sound bites, tweets and interactive apps are just some of the ways through which they learn nowadays. So keeping that in mind, we need to share our knowledge of history in a way that will be engaging.

But now that we’re older and wiser, we understand that our children can learn a lot by looking closer at the past. As we get older, our perception changes, as do our interests. All of a sudden, these characters are not eccentric anymore and we realise they were real people with real personalities. They fought battles, they won the love of their women, they made mistakes and they were vulnerable to diseases. Just like us.

All of a sudden history becomes exciting.

And then at some stage, almost like a revelation, we realise that learning history has many important benefits as well. By understanding our past, and where we came from, we hope to better understand where we are now and even decide what might happen in the future. The way things are now is a consequence of the things that happened in the past. The way things will be tomorrow will be a consequence of the way things are now.

remembering the past, we realise that we are responsible for building a legacy for the generations that follow us.

It provides identity and shows us models of good and responsible behaviour, as well as teaching us how to learn from the mistakes of others. History helps us understand how society can change and develop.

If we don’t teach our children to connect with history, then the consequences for our society could be disastrous. The more we know about the past the better prepared we are for the future because by

Movies are a great place to start, as you want to make sure that learning about history is exciting and fun. Look to the old Hollywood classics like Ben-Hur or The Great Escape, as well as hot soon-to-be released movies like Guy Ritchie’s King Arthur: Legend of the Sword. Children will soon realise that being a ‘historian’ is like being a time-detective; they’ll start looking everywhere for clues to help them build up a picture of what happened long ago. On the small screen too, they’ll find plenty of grist for the mill, through popular, blockbusting series like Game of Thrones and Downton Abbey.

Apps are of course another great way to bring history to life, with games, 

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FAMILY MATTERS

interesting visuals and interactive multimedia features making study fun. Take Timeline Eons: all major historical events are organised on a timeline, so children can zoom in and out to learn about different time periods. Ancient Rome by Britannica Kids is another very well designed app teaching children about ancient Rome – it includes media-rich material, games and quizzes. My grandkids also rate Faking It, a free app from The Metropolitan Museum of Art, which teaches history through iconic photos.

And what about storytelling? We were telling stories long before the golden-haired, blue-eyed Vikings sailed dragon-prowed boats up a river in Northumbria one cold miserable January morning in 793AD, and we are still listening to these stories told by today’s raconteurs and writers, and by our grandparents and parents. Hence the word ‘his-story’.

Using stories to teach history From a very young age, children are taught to recognise and appreciate stories that they are told. At bedtime especially, a wave of hushed concentration envelops children as they hear the words ‘once upon a time’, and there are hundreds of titles, not necessarily nonfiction books, that could be suitable for this.

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn which offers readers a glimpse of what life was like in 19th century America and addresses important issues from the past – slavery, for example.

The list is endless and in every one, there is a story to grab children’s imagination. With just one chapter a night, it’s possible to take the time to answer any questions your children may have about the stories you choose. Who knows, soon your children may start reaching for the historical fiction shelf on their own.

Growing up in Hong Kong, our

children are already exposed to different cultures and values, and history helps to open their minds and learn the importance of world cultures.

It helps them explore the different stages of history and understand the importance of major events and the mistakes that were made. Mistakes that we hope will never be repeated.

And isn’t that what we really want? To make our children’s future better than our past?

In the immortal words of the English poet and novelist Rudyard Kipling: “If history were taught in the form of stories, it would never be forgotten.”

Trisha Hughes, one of this year’s mentors in the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition, has just released her latest book, Vikings to Virgin – The Hazards of being King, with Austin Macauley Publishers. The first in a threepart historical trilogy, it provides a thrilling and highly accessible ride through the dark side of early British monarchy. Vikings to Virgin – The Hazards of being King is available on Amazon and at bookstores throughout Hong Kong, including Bookazine in DB. Find out more at www.trishahughesauthor.com and www.vikingstovirgin.com.

YOUNG WRITER’S COMPETITION 2017

For example, there is the story of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Although fictitious, this tale is full of intrigue, bravery, dashing knights on white horses waving swords, and swooning damsels in distress. Then we have the story of Robin Hood with his band of merry men robbing from the rich and giving to the poor, while romping through Sherwood Forest in his Lincoln-green long johns. For something closer to our times, there is Mark Twain’s

Now in its fifth year, the Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writer’s Competition (YWC) provides secondary school students living and/ or studying in Lantau with the chance to get published.

The challenge, this year, is for students to write a 600- to 700word account from the point of view of a famous historical figure.

Stories need to be submitted by April 10. Prizes for the three winners and three runners-up will be provided by Bookazine.

You can check the YWC guidelines at www.arounddb.com, or on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook pages.

Find more child-centric stories @ www.arounddb.com

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

PROFILE TALKING POINTS

OPENING EYES Sam Agars chats with two long-term DBers in a bid to understand what life with a guide dog is like, and what the community can do to help make their lives just that little bit easier

Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

F

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o r J e a n L i n a n d Ti m Henderson, becoming the first two Discovery Bay residents to own guide dogs was life changing. Jean has had her dog Bella since February of last year and Tim partnered up with Dax in July, with both dogs trained by Hong Kong Guide Dogs Association (HKGDA).

While reaping the benefits, both Jean and Tim have faced uncomfortable situations as they became accustomed to living with a guide dog, often things that could have been easily avoided if just for a greater awareness among the community.

According to Brian Francis of the HKGDA, there were no guide dogs in Hong Kong at all from the mid-1970s up until 2011. Rather incredibly, the number of guide dogs currently in use stands at just 12, with another five to graduate this year.

Both Jean and Tim suffer from the same condition – retinitis pigmentosa – which is a degenerative eye disease that will eventually render them completely blind. Tim is currently operating with 20 degrees of vision, a third of that enjoyed by a person with full sight. Jean says her condition

New lease on life

March 2017 www.arounddb.com

is not yet as advanced as Tim’s, but that she is starting to lose her central vision and has only a very small area of tunnel vision.

While many take being able simply to go for a walk for granted, before Bella, Jean had one of her favourite pastimes taken away from her.

“When my eyes were better, I was able to walk around DB,” she says. “I much prefer walking than taking the bus. I had stopped for a long time and now I have Bella I can walk instead of taking the bus. I can take my son to school and when he is running, I can run after him.”

enter any public place, including parks and restaurants. Unfortunately a significant slice of the population is unaware of the rights of guide dog users, leading to significant confusion and uncomfortable situations. According to Tim, a lot of the trouble he has faced has centred around the fact that a lot of people simply don’t understand what blindness and visual impairment is.

“People have a preconceived idea that if you are using a cane, you’re blind, or if you are using a dog, you’re blind,” he says. “They don’t understand what visual impairment is in that people with visual impairment, such as myself, can still function in some aspects.”

Jean Lin and Tim Henderson with Bella and Dax

Tim finds he is able to go about his business with more confidence than before Dax arrived on the scene. “It’s been a comfort level,” he says. “With the white cane, it’s just not comfortable when people see me with it. They either think I’m completely blind or they don’t know at all what the cane means.”

One of the biggest problems Tim faces in DB is unleashed dogs and their owners not realising how tough it makes things for him. “People look at me and go ‘well, you can see’ and I go ‘yeah, I can see straight but I have terrible peripheral vision so I can’t see another dog coming,’” he says. “That is where the frustrating part is, people’s perception of what my ailment is. I just want people to go ‘hey, he can’t react quickly so let’s keep our dogs on a leash’.

“My son wants to be with me when I take my dog out, but if there is another dog around off the leash, it creates a problem. I worry that I wouldn’t be able to act fast enough if my son were to get tangled between the dogs.”

Given the safety issue, Tim decided to move Hong Kong-side at the end of February. “I have found that there are too many dog owners unwilling to put their dogs on leashes and

I cannot risk injury to my son or Dax,” he says.

“There’s a by-law here in Hong Kong, you have to keep your dogs on a leash,” Tim adds. “But I don’t want to be the bad guy and I understand that people want to help their dogs enjoy life. I was just trying to get people, even in my building, to understand but... A lot of my neighbours have been really accepting, but some just ignored the situation all together, they just didn’t get it.”

Guide dog users’ rights Jean’s major issues have revolved around restaurants – although she did also face some problems at schools in the early days – again due to people simply not knowing the rights of guide dog users.

“Going to restaurants is the biggest challenge,” she says. “Often the frontline workers have a strong idea of not letting dogs into the restaurant and sometimes we have to demand to see the manager.”

Jean has noticed improvements in many of DB’s restaurants but is still shocked by the reaction of some members of the public. “One more resistance is actually from people with dogs,” she says. “When I tell them that I need to bring Bella into the restaurant with me, they’re like ‘how can you take Bella in, I leave my dog outside, you should leave your dog outside.’”

Tim also faced a lot of issues on buses, when he first got Dax, something he says was again purely down to a lack of awareness and has eased since the HKGDA met with Hong Kong Resorts.

Shout out to dog owners In Hong Kong, the Disabilities Discrimination Ordinance says that visually-impaired people accompanied by guide dogs can

FIND IT • Hong Kong Guide Dogs Association, www.guidedogs.org.hk

Find more topical local topics @ www.arounddb.com www.arounddb.com March 2017

49

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PARENTING

TIDY-UP TIME!

L Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

iving in DB, we’re blessed with an exhilarating city, vibrant culture and spectacular countryside right on our doorsteps. One thing we don’t have in abundance is space – the one thing that most families tend to need the most. But before you start packing your bags for roomier destinations, here are a few ways to live within the limited space available without losing your cool.

Sort it out The first step towards solving any problem is admitting that you have one! Take a good, critical look around your home or ask a friend to do this for you. It can be difficult to be impartial about your own home, so ask them to be completely honest in their assessment (and don’t

All out of storage solutions?

Try these quick and easy ways to keep your home clutter free.

Kate Farr reports

forget to return the favour). You’ll probably find that their thoughts echo your own – if you can see those piles of paper balanced on every surface, so can they.

week to empty this and you’ll barely notice the time.

Spark joy

Once you have a ‘hit list’ of bugbears, tackle them one at a time.

Focusing your attention on one area will prevent you from becoming overwhelmed and enable you to find workable solutions to each problem.

When tackling larger living spaces, preparation is key. We’ve all heard about it, but Marie Kondo’s bestselling book The LifeChanging Magic of Tidying Up has some genuinely helpful tips that benefit everyone.

Begin at the front door – if you stumble over shoes and sports gear on your way in, consider a shoe cupboard, stacking shelves, or wall-mounted racks. Be realistic – saying that you’ll file receipts daily isn’t the same as actually doing it, so make your own life easier with a bowl by the front door to handle pocket overflow, coins and other items. Set aside three minutes per

No time to read? Kondo’s most useful tips are to sort your possessions by category, keeping only the items that ‘spark joy’, before finding them a dedicated place in your home. This means saying goodbye to all that lidless Tupperware, and hello to a welllabelled spice rack that will make you look forward to spending time in the kitchen. 

www.arounddb.com March 2017

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PARENTING

A family affair Of course, the smallest people in the household create the biggest mess. Toy storage tops almost every parent’s list of headaches, and the encroachment of plastic on living space can make you feel as though you’re living in a branch of Toys “R” Us, ransacked by tiny ram-raiders.

It’s never too early to get kids involved with tidying up, and, love it or loathe it, nobody does creative, affordable storage quite like ‘The Big Blue Box’. A strategic Ikea shop can solve clutter woes quickly, with child-friendly drawers, boxes and shelves turning tidy-up time into a friendly collaboration rather than an all-out family battle.

such as seasonal clothing or sporting equipment – that you can’t live without but have no immediate need for, consider off-site storage. Look for units with climate control to guard against mould, and consider the added convenience of collection and drop-off services. Pakt photograph and store your clothes, so you have a full visual inventory on hand, while Spacebox can stash almost anything that has outstayed its welcome in your home, leaving you with nothing but wide open space.

And finally…

Once your pad is pristine, keep it that way! Have regular clear-outs, donating unwanted toys, appliances and furniture to charity. DB Mothers

Help little ones to find the right home for their treasures by sticking pictures onto each drawer. Pull-along boxes with wheels make gathering small items easier, while Perspex drawers are great for sorting Lego into individual colours (these also work well for Mum’s makeup stash).

Consider keeping paint, Playdoh and other messy items on a high shelf away from little fingers, while keeping toys that they can enjoy without supervision at floor level for easy access.

A classic toy chest does the job

and Friends accepts good condition donations, and will collect bulky items from your home. Encourage budding entrepreneurs to sell toys and books for extra pocket money, either in the time-honoured fashion of a blanket on the ground at the monthly Flea Market, or on one of the many local Facebook trading forums.

And the ultimate clutter-busting tips? Try to apply the ‘spark joy’ principle to everything that you buy, or, failing that, freeze your credit card in a large block of ice. Forcing yourself to carefully consider each purchase will help to ensure that your cupboards remain uncluttered and save you money too. Enjoy your orderly new home!

Curate your clothes into a workable wardrobe

Ask the experts What we wear has an intrinsic association with our memories, so if you’re struggling to part with long since outdated outfits, or have simply lost sight of what suits you and what doesn’t, an expert ‘wardrobe edit’ can help you cull dead wood. Make My Wardrobe Work will send a stylist to your home to help you curate your clothes into a workable everyday collection, saving you angst, not to mention time, in the process.

Prioritise clever storage solutions for kids

Every entrance benefits from a shoe cabinet

FIND IT • DB Mothers and Friends, 2ndhanditem.wordpress.com • Ikea, www.ikea.com/hk • Make My Wardrobe Work, www.makemywardrobework.com • Marie Kondo, konmari.com • Pakt, www.pakt.hk • Spacebox, www.spacebox.com.hk

If you find that you have items – Find more child-centric stories @ www.arounddb.com

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

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Alila Anji, China

Family Vacation

Mango Bay Resort, Vietnam

Thanks to the warmth of the locals and all the activities on offer, South East Asian travel can be a blast for kids. Kate Farr explores some dedicatedly child-friendly destinations Panacea Retreat, Thailand

Photos courtesy of Kate Farr

Novotel Bali Benoa Resort, Bali

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Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort and Spa

Mango Bay Resort, Vietnam

Panacea Retreat, Thailand

Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort and Spa

March 2017 www.arounddb.com

W

hether you’re travelling with toddlers or teens, family holidays require their own rulebook to ensure that everyone gets a break to remember… for all the right reasons! Here are five covetable holiday spots that make families a priority.

Bali, Indonesia A perennial family favourite for good reason, Bali has it all – great weather, beautiful beaches and a rich culture. Up until recently, Benoa was predominantly a cruise ship stopover but these days, the peninsula is a diving and snorkelling hub, as well as a surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing centre for thrill seekers.

The Novotel Bali Benoa Resort’s spacious family rooms have separate kids and adults sleeping areas – a major plus for anyone who has ever sat hunched over an iPad in the dark once their kids are tucked up in bed. Older children will love the in-room games console, while little ones are kept busy with the selection of toys and games. The resort’s kids’ club hosts daily activities from Balinese crafting to cricket, and there are three separate pools, including a shallow pool for tiny tots. The MyKids programme offers free family films, kids’

Novotel Bali Benoa Resort, Bali

menus, a welcome toy and freeflow soft drinks.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam The stunning Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc lies in the Gulf of Thailand, offering an attractive alternative to the usual beach breaks. Access is via a short connecting flight from either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, and visitors can expect untouched scenery, picture-perfect sunsets and world-class snorkelling around this protected marine environment.

Eco-friendly Mango Bay Resort specialises in a uniquely Vietnamese brand of barefoot luxury, with just 44 rooms and family bungalows tucked away within lush tropical surroundings.

Families are welcomed with open arms here – high chairs and and cots are available as standard, while the activity centre offers snorkelling gear, kayaks and bikes to explore the surrounding area. There’s even a board game library on hand for a relaxed family night in the villa.

Alila Anji, China

Anji, China Visiting China with children has never been easier, and Anji, in Zhejiang Province, is a world apart from Middle Kingdom megacity Shanghai, just a short distance away.

A region of tea plantations and lush

Novotel Bali Benoa Resort, Bali

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ESCAPES

Sentosa, Singapore

Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort and Spa

Panacea Retreat, Thailand

bamboo forests (its most famous, Da Zhu Hai, was the backdrop to the blockbuster film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon), Anji is China’s first designated National Ecological County, dedicated to preserving its pristine natural environment and keeping its fertile farmland free from pollution.

Alila Anji is the perfect retreat from city stress, tucked away within thick bamboo groves. Lakeview villas overlook a spectacular landscape, while families are encouraged to explore their surroundings on the resort’s fleet of bikes. If that’s all sounding a little… peaceful for your brood, Alila offers packages that include visits to the world’s largest Hello Kitty theme park or the vast Happy Vanko Water Kingdom, along with trips to local farms for some rustic foodie fun.

A crowd-pleasing option that ticks all the boxes for ease, Sentosa is the most family-friendly spot in the already very family-friendly city of Singapore. There are plenty of balmy beaches on which to build sandcastles, however the real attraction here is Resorts World Singapore, home to the Universal Studios theme park, Adventure Cove Waterpark and the SEA Aquarium, where you’ll find the world’s largest oceanarium. Need more convincing?

There are also two casinos, a shopping mall and several fine dining restaurants to cater to your every culinary whim.

With so much to explore, you’re going to need a comfortable base, and the colonial-style Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort and Spa has you covered. The roomy family suites offer ample space for everyone to spread out, with a master bedroom and separate living area with comfy sofa bed. There’s also an inviting swimming pool to explore, as well as nearby Tanjong Beach and the on-site Villa des Enfants kids’ club, which offers a daily roster of children’s classes and activities. Once they’ve burned off some energy, stoke them up again with the kids-only Little

Royals Afternoon Tea – a sweet treat fit for a prince or princess.

Koh Samui, Thailand Another destination on the ‘easy’ list is Koh Samui. With direct flights from Hong Kong, this Thai island is known for its laidback vibe, palm-fringed beaches and fun family activities including multiple waterparks, adventure zip-lining and go-karting, to name but a few.

If you’re travelling as a group of families, consider splashing out on a once-in-a-lifetime stay at Panacea Retreat, a collection of exclusiveuse luxury villas. The largest of the properties, Praana, is fully staffed and sleeps 12, with additional baby cots supplied free of charge.

This spectacular home boasts two infinity pools, a gym, tennis court, cinema room and even its own boxing ring, and offers free yoga, tennis, Muay Thai and cooking lessons, plus a free massage per stay.

It also has its own kids’ club for your group to enjoy all to themselves, with daily arts-and-craft activities, board games, toys, games consoles, DVDs, table football and billiards to keep everyone entertained while you unwind in the lap of luxury.

FIND IT • Alila Anji, www.alilahotels.com/anji • Mango Bay Resort, mangobayphuquoc.com • Novotel Bali Benoa Resort, www.novotel.com/Bali • Panacea Retreat, www.panaceasamui.com • Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort and Spa, www.sofitel-singapore-sentosa.com

Find more exciting travel destinations @ www.arounddb.com

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

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RECIPES

SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT Through well-loved family recipes focused on farm-fresh produce, Monika Carruthers introduces the delights of Polish cuisine

Chlodnik

(Chilled beet soup) Serves 6 • 4 young beets • 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated • 8 radishes, grated • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, grated • 800 ml buttermilk • 800 ml plain yogurt • 3 hard-boiled eggs, halved

Prepare the beets by removing and dicing the stems up to the leaves. Add the chopped stems to a large soup pot.

Peel and grate the beets, then add to the pan with enough salted boiling water to cover. Simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. Leave the beet mixture to cool. Add the cucumber, radishes, dill, garlic, buttermilk and yogurt. Stir well and season to taste. Chill and serve garnished with hard-boiled eggs.

Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org



www.arounddb.com March 2017

59

RECIPES

Golabki (Stuffed

cabbage rolls) Serves 6 • 1 large white cabbage

• 300 g long white rice, precooked • 600 g beef, minced • 2 medium onions • 2 large eggs • 1 tsp marjoram • 1 tbsp butter • 1 small onion • 1 can tomatoes • 90 g tomato paste Cut out the hard centre of the cabbage, and place the head in a pot of boiling salted water (cut side down). Cover and simmer for eight minutes. Leave to cool. Combine the pre-cooked rice, raw beef, fried onions, eggs and marjoram. Remove the cabbage leaves, putting two tablespoons of stuffing on each. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides.

Layer the pot with additional cabbage leaves to prevent the rolls from sticking to the bottom. Arrange the rolls tightly in the pot, submerged in water.

Cover and simmer for 60 minutes, before draining. Fry the remaining ingredients in a separate pan to form a smooth sauce. Pour over the cabbage rolls and cook gently for five minutes.

Garnish with chopped marjoram and serve with warm, crusty bread or  boiled potatoes.

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

Complimentary Session with a Health Advisor at IMI Discovery Bay When it comes to making changes to enhance your health and wellbeing in body, mind, emotions and spirit, IMI can support you every step of the way. We are offering you the opportunity to begin your journey with our Integral Health Advice Service to take that first important step.

Our Advisor will listen to your needs and answer any questions you may have, and provide you with advice, encouragement, or connect you to the most appropriate service if needed. Your Advisor may also introduce you to an integrative healthcare programme—a combination of tests, treatments, and advice.

This service is free, with no obligation.

To begin your journey today, please call 2537 1087 or email advice@imi.com.hk to make a booking for the free session.

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RECIPES

Szarlotka

(Polish apple pie) Serves 6 • 460 g flour • 300 g butter • 250 g sugar • 2 egg yolks • 1 kg sour apples, sliced • 1 tsp cinnamon • 1 tsp vanilla extract • ½ tbsp breadcrumbs • 1 tsp icing sugar Make a dough by combining the flour, butter, 150 g sugar and egg yolks. Divide into one third and two third parts.

Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Caramelise the remaining sugar in a frying pan. Add the apples, cinnamon and vanilla extract once the caramel turns golden brown. Cook until most of the liquid evaporates. Use the larger section of dough to make a 14-inch pie crust, bake at 180°C for 15 minutes.

Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and then layer on the apple filling. Lightly cover the apples with the remaining dough, grated. Bake for around 30 minutes at 180°C. Sprinkle with icing sugar to serve. Smacznego!

Find more classic recipes @ www.arounddb.com

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

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HK HAPPENINGS

YOUNG READERS FESTIVAL Across Hong Kong

March 6-17

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The sixth Hong Kong International Young Readers Festival encourages children to explore the world of books through workshops and meet-the-author sessions. Look out for awardwinning and bestselling authors such as Sarah Brennan, Roshani Chokshi and David Solomons. For more information, visit www.youngreadersfestival.org.hk.

HONG KONG FLOWER SHOW Victoria Park, Causeway Bay

March 10-19

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HUNG SHING FESTIVAL Ap Lei Chau

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The 17th edition of the Hong Kong Flower Show is themed Blossoms of Love. Enjoy floral art demonstrations, and greening and cultivation workshops, plus guided tours for adults and kids alike. Admission to the show, which runs from 9am each day, is HK$14.

ALL-IRISH SHOW The Tamarind, Wanchai

Just in time for St Patrick’s Day, March 17, Punchline Comedy Club presents the All-Irish Show. Totally Wired! (Ireland's oldest and least successful boy band) is performing alongside festival veterans like Ian Coppinger and Colm O’Regan.

For tickets, starting at HK$370, visit www.ticketflap.com.

March 16-18

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Before he was deified, Hung Shing was a Tang dynasty astronomer, who enjoyed forecasting the weather. His festival is marked mostly by fishermen who feel indebted to his name. Join them at the 240-year-old Hung Shing Temple in Ap Lei Chau for dragon and lion dances, traditional processions, Chinese opera and more.

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

HONG KONG ARTS FESTIVAL Across Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Arts Through March 18 Festival showcases Asia’s top talents in dance, music, theatre and opera. Headliners this month include Les Ballets Jazz de Montreal, Louis Langrée www.wikimedia.org and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and the Oslo Philharmonic. Visit www.hk.artsfestival.org for more information, and www.urbtix.hk for tickets. www.arounddb.com March 2017

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

HK HAPPENINGS

ASIA CONTEMPORARY ART SHOW

Get your events listed @ www.arounddb.com

HONG KONG DERBY Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin

Conrad Hong Kong, Admiralty

March 19

March 17-20

www.asiacontemporaryart.com

The 10th Asia Contemporary Art Show features everything from original paintings and limited editions, to sculpture and photography. The all-new China Perspectives, a collection of contemporary art from new and emerging Chinese artists, is one of this year’s highlights. Tickets on the door cost HK$220 per person, or you can buy two tickets for the price of one at www.asiacontemporaryart.com/tickets.

With a purse of HK$18 million, the 2,000-metre Hong Kong Derby is the premier event on the domestic racing programme. Several Derby winners have gone on to earn Hong Kong Horse of the Year honours including Football, Co-Tack, Yuno When and River Verdon.

To find out more, visit www.hkjc.com.

ART CENTRAL

ART BASEL HONG KONG

Central Harbourfront, Central

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai

At Art Central, March 21-25 you are invited to discover Asia’s next generation of talent alongside some of the most established galleries from across the world. You can also expect panel discussions and www.artcentralhongkong.com experimental films, plus educational activities for kids. For tickets, starting at HK$230, visit www.ticketflap.com, for more information visit www.artcentralhongkong.com.

www.hkjc.com

The fifth edition of Art Basel Hong Kong brings together both established and emerging artists representing 241 galleries from 34 countries. This year’s newcomers include Galerie Buchholz, Project Native Informant and Luxembourg & Dayan.

There are also 10 new galleries from Asia.

To find out more, visit www.artbasel.com/hong-kong.

March 23-25

www.artasiapacific.com

COPPÉLIA

March 24-26

Sha Tin Town Hall, Sha Tin

www.hkballet.com

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March 2017 www.arounddb.com

Performed by Hong Kong Ballet and based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s light-hearted story The Sandman (1816), Coppélia is a romantic comedy of errors, with music by Delibes. It follows the delightful story of a mysterious inventor, his life-sized doll and an inquisitive young couple. For tickets, starting at HK$100, visit www.urbtix.hk.

FINANCIAL PLANNING ASK THE EXPERT….

Who am I? KayeKaye Khemlani at your service, a native English speaker with strong presence in Discovery Bay.

My thoughts: Welcome back DB Residents and Hong Kong locals, the holidays are now over and at last I am finally changing my ad so hopefully someone will notice.

Well what can I say about insurance that I haven’t already mentioned before? Obviously, we all need it and should have certain kinds, especially medical, saving, life and home owners, otherwise my placing the ads here has been a waste of time.

I do encourage all of you to take the time, (really it’s time well spent), to go over your collection of policies and ask yourself, “Is this enough or too much or just right?”

I would be more than happy to sit down with you at no cost and go over your existing coverage, just give me a ring on an email.

Your questions: It’s time to return to old fashioned, traditional, life and savings products with guaranteed returns; medical and critical illness products to protect against a heart attack when you look at your investment portfolio. My Canadian multinational company has plenty of such products, and Canada has emerged from the subprime debacle in a relatively stable condition.

My offer: I can do a comparison shop for you, to check if you have the right product at the right price…Free of charge.

CONTACT ME ANYTIME

9811 1554 Kailash_k3@hotmail.com Watch out for next month’s column with more useful tips!

DB’s Premier Mover ...

Trust us to take you home !

DB FACES

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

Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

Win prizes from Uncle Russ Coffee and The Pier Bar! Congratulations to last month’s winner: Isac Tjernberg (@isac_101).

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!

View DB property listings @ www.arounddb.com

WORSHIP SERVICE Discovery College Sundays @ 10 am

CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP PRACTICAL BIBLE TEACHING KIDS CHURCH & TEENS

EMPLOYMENT

FINANCE & INSURANCE

DELIVERY PERSON/ MESSENGER

AUSTRALIAN TAX RETURNS

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

HELPER SEEKING EMPLOYER

Due to relocation, my helper of 6 years is now looking for a new employer. Call Marilyn on 6103 7867, or email binh.johansson@gmail.com

Need to lodge your Australian tax return?

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

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

HEALTH & WELLBEING

EMPLOYER LOOKING FOR A HELPER OR HELPER LOOKING FOR EMPLOYE? Place your free classifieds ad here.

Email info@baymedia.com.hk

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

HYPNOSIS &/ OR SHORT-TERM THERAPY

Quit smoking quickly.

Divorce/ Post-Divorce Coaching.

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

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com HOME SERVICES

HOME SERVICES

TUITION & COURSES

AKASH MOVING & HANDYMAN SERVICES

FLAT PAINTING & HANDYMAN WORKS

LEARN SPANISH

• 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

All painting works, interior & exterior.

Picture hanging, light fitting, bath & tile refinishing.

Minor electrical & carpentry work.

Refinishing, door fitting, fencing, astroturfing & more.

Contact Roger on 9156 0360, drscompanyhk@gmail.com

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

TUITION & COURSES

• 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 TUITION

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

HOUSE PAINTING BY UNITEK HK

Fast, tidy, reliable! Best rates in town!

Full renovation & handyman services, all done by expats.

For a free quote contact 2984 9381, www.unitekhk.com

All levels – kids & adults Cambridge University CELTA qualification Over 10 years of teaching experience in Hong Kong Learn in the comfort of your own home Contact David at 5165 4372, david88wilson@gmail.com

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

DEADLINE FOR APRIL ISSUE CLASSIFIEDS

March 19

Visit the Around DB Facebook page for trending news, events and local discussions. www.facebook.com/AroundDB

SPANISH MA in Applied Linguistics – University lecturer

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

Lessons in Discovery Bay on: TUE, THU & SAT Contact: Tel: 9104 3770 carinapicomartinez@gmail.com

www.little-whale.com Your One-Stop Online Childcare & Toy Store!

Free Shipping on orders $300+

Piano Lessons by pianist with over 100 concert performances

Now taking new students who like to enhance their techniques Contact: 93068679

@littlewhale.com.hk Discovery Bay Tung Chung

5690 4960 6310 7074

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 Let’s reach our 2017 target together: 100,000 pairs of socks will be donated to children in need.

Order online at

www.eurekasocks.com

EUREKA socks

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com

Tung Chung Vet Centre Contact todayforfor Contact us us today long­term healthy weight long­term Contact healthy us todayweight for loss.

Advice and plans to to loss.

Advice and weight plans long­term healthy suit every lifestyle from our suitloss. every lifestyle fromto our Advice and plans accredited suitCambridge every lifestyle from our Cambridge accredited coaches.

Cambridge accredited coaches. coaches.

Shop Q2, Seaview Crescent Retail, 8 Tung Chung Water Front Road, Tung Chung (near Zentro Bar)

Tel: 2328 7281

All your vet needs, surgery, dentals, vaccinations, retail and grooming.

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

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

Phoenix Wills www.aa-hk.org

Have you appointed guardians for your children?

Who should inherit your assets if you and your immediate family are all fatalities in an accident?

What happens if the breadwinner in your family is critically ill or in a coma and unable to provide?

Allow Phoenix Wills to assist you with your estate planning to ensure that your loved ones are looked after in the event of your untimely death or incapacity.

W: www.phoenix-wills.com E: info@phoenix-wills.com T: 3100 0101 | M: 6108 8471

Interview Language DIY Messy Play Drawing

Cooking Playgroup Oral Tutorial Japanese

•Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents

PN/N/Kindergarden

• Sliding fee scale; affordable options for all clients

(+852) 2668 8922 fun.paradise@yahoo.com.hk www.funparadise.wixsite.com/mysite

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

Shop 10, Level One, The Visionary 1 Ying Hong Street Tung Chung

Fun Paradise Learning Centre

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

View local business directories @ www.arounddb.com

Elly House of Beauty Offering trial prices for new clients, we offer Intense Pulse Light Treatments and Face Photo Rejuvenation.

Visit our Facebook page at Elly House of Beauty or contact us at 5217 0102 (Whatsapp)

Our Customer of the Month

Jack

Mypetshop in the North Plaza.

Shop G09-92 Siena Ave. DB North Plaza Tel: 2987 8873 Open Daily 10am – 7:30pm

GIVING LIFE SHOULDN’T BE SO DEADLY Ramatoulaye, who lives in Burkina Faso, was about to give birth to her fourth child, but the boatman was nowhere to be found. Unable to get to the health centre across the river, she gave birth alone on the river banks.

Maternal health is a human right — join Amnesty International to defend human rights for women like Ramatoulaye.

Learn more at www.amnesty.org.hk.

© Anna Kari

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

DELUXE DB SERVICED APARMENTS

2-BED IN CHERISH COURT, DB

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

Contact Annie on 2987 2626, annie@appletravel.com

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

NICELY DECORATED DB APARTMENTS

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

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

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

OVERSEAS PROPERTY

VILLA IN SANUR, BALI FOR RENT Newly built 4 bedroom/ bathroom villa for rent in Sanur, Bali. Large pool & western kitchen.

Walking distance to beach & restaurants. Prices from HK$1,800 per night with a minimum of 2 nights. Contact serenacourtauld@gmail.com

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

Free online at www.aussieproperty.com

View Discovery Bay short-term rentals www.arounddb.com

To advertise your short-term rental contact us via info@arounddb.com

AROUND DB AND LIFE ON LANTAU

YOUNG WRITER’S COMPETITION 2017

NOW OFFIC IALLY OPEN

The challenge:

Write a 600- to 700-word account from the point of view of a famous historical figure.

The reward:

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

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

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

The deadline is April 10.

Last year’s finalists: Maria Andreeva, 14, Katrina Lowe, 13, and Ryan Harling, 16

Check the YWC guidelines on the Around DB and Life on Lantau Facebook pages or www.arounddb.com Submit your article by April 10 to info@baymedia.com.hk

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

LANTAU NUMBERS

TUNG CHUNG

SOUTH LANTAU

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

FTC Apparel

FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

2428 2566 FOOD, RESTAURANTS & BARS

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

2286 6668 3602 8828 2109 4187 2286 6238 6504 4208 2286 6898 3520 0848 3602 8808 2626 0181 2886 3646 2109 1927 2988 8129 2338 2338 3602 8838 3602 8818 2297 3588 2330 0000 2286 6618 2886 3156 2286 6868 3969 2500 2109 1297 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

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

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

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

HOTELS

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 Epic MMA Jumping Castles Perun Fitness Seaview Crescent Club House Smash Cricket Tung Chung Crescent Club House

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

UTILITY, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

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

2421 8088 2109 2330 2988 1488

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

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

HOME & REPAIRS

Akash Removals Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Shun Yu Engineering

2984 0222 2984 0498 2984 9720 2984 0009 3484 3095 6429 3507 2984 8933 5465 5511 2320 2001 5662 8552 2504 4788 2983 8931 2980 2582 5991 6292 2109 3331

2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1999

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

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

PROPERTY AGENCIES

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

2984 8334 3483 5003 2984 1666 RETAIL

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

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

Jumping Castles SPCA Miriam Safadi Photography Parteezi Phoenix Wills Suzanne Goodwin Photography

9662 1747 2984 0060 5145 0227 6112 9842 6108 8471 9025 3949 TRANSPORTATION

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

2984 2268 2984 8494 2984 8255 2984 9848

DB NUMBERS

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

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

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

3102 2977 2320 1238 3480 1348 2987 8460

Island Dance

Playtime Kids DB

The Beat

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

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

Tree of Joy

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

AQUABLU

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

LEARNING CENTRES

Private Client Wealth Management Tel: 2914 0388 www.sjpp.asia/tspp 2160 6556 2233 3000 2987 1851

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

LEARNING CENTRES

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

Future Stars Dance Academy

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

2987 6867 melissa@futurestarsdanceacademy.com

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

MULTIMEDIA

7+1 Creative Club

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

9502 2381 2529 8256 2829 2010 2987 8873 2987 0428 2987 1368 2987 5151

PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS

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

The Stephen Putnam Practice

78

DB Party Time Gillian florist, North Plaza Flight Centre, North Plaza Mypetshop, North Plaza Pets Gallery The Optical House Well Supreme Laundry Services

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

Parsons White Wealth Management

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

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

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

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Bank of China HSBC Luen Fat Securities Co. Ltd

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

Harvey Law Group

2987 4401 2792 0530 2987 7486 2448 1180 2987 4089 2947 9092

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

Apple Travel

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

2987 1571 www.islanddance.com.hk

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

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

2987 1373 2914 2378 2987 8898 2987 1777

AroundDB's April 2017 issue coming out March 31

March 2017 www.arounddb.com

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

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

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

2987 2298 2295 8288 2295 8299 2987 0966 2591 1426 2987 2848 2172 6111 2987 0036 2987 2915 2987 9123 2987 4768 2987 8855 2987 0202 2987 9311 2997 8688 2987 2886

Koh Tomyums

2987 0767

FOOD & BEVERAGE, HOTELS

DB NUMBERS

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY HOTLINES

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

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

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 La Création Bakery

2987 1829

McSorley’s Ale House

2987 8280

Mirch Masala, North Plaza

2987 1337

Moofish, North Plaza

2987 6318

Nevale Kitchen, North Plaza

2172 7099

Pacific Coffee

2987 1662

Paisano’s, North Plaza

2673 4445

Peony Chinese Restaurant

2500 1950

Salt & Pepper

2336 8001

Solera

2555 0772

Subway

2914 0005

Super Super

2914 1308

The Venue

2777 8411

Uncle Russ, DB Plaza

2682 0068

Uncle Russ, North Plaza

2682 8110

Zak’s

2987 6232

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

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

2987 0132 www.dbcricketclub.com

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

Embody The perfect studio for bumps, babes, kids & adults with Yoga, Piloxing, Zumba, Pilates, FatBurn & more!

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

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

2911 4833 2987 7382 6473 4277 2517 8248 2987 9591 2987 7273 2987 7381 2441 0098 2320 1238

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

2987 4230 3480 1348 2987 7859

TRANSPORT SERVICES

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 2345 2728 8333 2678 2678 2987 4242 2987 7502 2238 3601 2238 3388 2987 6046 2435 4511 3661 1694 3467 7000 2987 6738 2835 1473 2811 0788 2824 5000

WELLBEING

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

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

2987 0614

Limousine Rental

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

2914 2727 2914 0186 2987 7351 2987 6348 2987 0208 2987 9368

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

2987 0283 2987 2060 2499 8826 2987 4112 2987 9198

View the business directory

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

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

@ www.arounddb.com www.arounddb.com March 2017

79

OUT THERE

EARTH HOUR (AND EASTER ISLAND)

On March 25, we’ll be turning off our lights from 8.30pm to 9.30pm. But to save the planet what we really need is a change of heart. Peter Sherwood reports

I

f I stopped to consider our every act of destruction of the planet, of each other, of animal and plant species, I’d be crazier than a hyena on heroin. And if what I have to say appears paradoxically normal, it’s because it sadly is.

For Earth Hour last year, I was in Tsim Sha Tsui looking at the harbour lights and thinking about the appalling waste of energy, when a tourist official sidled up. Well, not so much sidled as imposed her diminutive presence to enlighten me: “Excuse me, but the laser light show tonight has been postponed until 9.45pm because of Earth Hour.” She then proceeded to walk around repeating her rehearsed idiocy to the awed gathering.

Photo courtesy of www.wwf.org.hk

Let me explain. Critics of Earth Hour, along with the Hong Kong Tourist Association, miss the point, and the point is to mark an internationally observed ‘time out’. We are asked to stop and think about the vast and potentially

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life-threatening growth of CO2 in our atmosphere. We are asked to focus on saving energy and finding pollution-free ways to produce it.

Does Earth Hour achieve anything?

Most of us take note of the one hour a year and then get straight back to the status quo. Computers, for example, which were predicted to save vast amounts of greenhouse gases, are now responsible for more CO2 than all commercial aircraft.

But we are constantly ‘plugged in’ and we continue to fly gratuitously because it’s cheap. We’re wasteful because we can be. We don’t count the cost, and because if you don’t bother, why should I? A light bulb moment This brings me to Easter Island, a few thousand kilometres from the nearest continental land mass. Has Peter finally gone mad, you ask?

Bear with me.

For centuries Easter Islanders lived

precisely as we primitive mammals always have. Like us they were in fierce competition – religion against religion, tribe against tribe.

Territorial fights focused on the mindless construction of huge stone statues, and the even more mindless destruction of the natural habitat.

The population’s decline (from 15,000 in the 1600s to just 2,000 a century later, and only an estimated 5,800 today) is instructional. It seems clear that only a change of consciousness can save the rest of us from the very same fate.

The last coconut tree on Easter Island (a food source, a nesting place for seabirds – another food source – and the material to make fishing rafts) was chopped down with the same greedy philosophy that exists in the world today – if I don’t take it, you will.

Back to Hong Kong and postponing a wasteful light show by an hour. Is this absurd, or is it just me?

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 he has written around 400 satirical columns for the South China Morning Post.

Find more from Peter @ www.arounddb.com March 2017 www.arounddb.com