Life on Lantau April/ May 2018

April/ May 2018

a HK$500 Curry Lounge dining voucher and tickets to Bruno Mars’ 24K Magic World Tour

TAI O: THE VILLAGE THAT TIME FORGOT

LOCAL SHOOTERS SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE SNAPS

WHY YOU NEED TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN SWIMMING

G N I M O -C D N A UP R A T S N ACTIO SERTO CA Y M M TO NEWS & EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

Publishers in Lantau since 2002

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

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

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

Remarkable choice

Premium cover

First class service

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

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

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

Ready to check in?

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

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

ALC Health and alc health are trading styles of à la carte healthcare limited, a company authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (311496). Registered in England No. 4163178.

Registered Office: Chanctonfold Barn, Chanctonfold, Horsham Road, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3AA, United Kingdom.

ALC Health (Hong Kong) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of à la carte healthcare limited and may use the same or similar trading styles. Registered in Hong Kong No 2399505 and by the Insurance Agents Registration Board (17975427). Registered Office: c/o Kennedys Secretaries Limited, Suite 1101-1103, 11/F, The Hong Kong Club Building, 3A Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong. à la carte healthcare ltd is part of the IMG Group of Companies.

Happy Hour From 4-8pm

BIG GAMES LIVE SPORTS

Tel: 2321 5500 www.atavola.hk /atavolahk Shop E&F G/F, Seaview Crescent Plaza Tung Chung, Lantau Island

c i s u m e v i L

and y a d i r F Every ‘til late t h g i n rday

Satu

Delicious fresh food

April / May 2018

FEATURES 12

DISPATCH Four keen photographers

18

PERSONA Up-and-coming action star

22

SPOTLIGHT A well-loved tourist

27

FITNESS Local swim teacher Jennifer

12

33

18

share their favourite photos from across Lantau, and explain what the images mean to them

Tommy Caserto opens up about stunt performing, Lantau living and always playing the bad guy

attraction, Tai O has a rich maritime and colonial history, and an uncertain future Atepolikhine reveals how swimming can tone your physique and calm your mind

REGULARS 10 29 33 40

GIVEAWAYS Win great prizes THE NETWORK All about AWE LANTAU FACES Community snaps PUZZLER Mind games and conundrums

AGENDA 04 30 37 38

LANTAU NEWS HK HAPPENINGS CLASSIFIEDS LOCAL NUMBERS

April/ May 2018

22

27

We also publish

If you have a story idea, email rachel@baymedia.com.hk To publicise a local event, email katrina@baymedia.com.hk

Discovery Bay’s original community magazine

For general enquiries, email info@baymedia.com.hk To advertise, email connie@baymedia.com.hk

APRIL 2018

Time to learn the local language – It's a lot

Call 2987 0577/ 2787 0886 | Fax 2987 0533

easier than you think

Why DB is the perfect LAUNCHPAD for small businesses Harness the healing power of gemstones by getting your rocks read

OCEANIC LOVE Gary Stokes opens up about veganism, piracy and much more besides

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

FREE

a HK$500 Curry Lounge dining voucher and tickets to Bruno Mars’ 24K Magic World Tour

TAI O: THE VILLAGE THAT TIME FORGOT

LOCAL SHOOTERS SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE SNAPS

WHY YOU NEED TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN SWIMMING

G -COMIN UP-AND STAR ACTION SERTO CA Y TOMM NEWS & EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE

Publishers in Lantau since 2002

ON THE

COVER American ninja Tommy Caserto at the Caribbean Coast To read the cover story, turn to page 18 Photo by Andrew Spires

2017 / 2018

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

For the latest Life on Lantau updates, find us on

and www.lifeonlantau.com

PUBLISHER Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk MANAGING EDITOR Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk

SOUTH LANTAU CONSERVATION PROTEST

SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS & ONLINE EDITOR Claire Severn claire@baymedia.com.hk DIGITAL & SALES ASSISTANT Patricia Jover patricia@baymedia.com.hk DIGITAL & EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katrina Mercado katrina@baymedia.com.hk SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrew Spires andrew@baymedia.com.hk ASSISTANT GRAPHIC DESIGNER Duey Tam duey@baymedia.com.hk ADVERTISING & SALES MANAGER Connie Cottam connie@baymedia.com.hk SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER Monika Carruthers monika@baymedia.com.hk OFFICE MANAGER Maxine Parry accountant@baymedia.com.hk PHOTOGRAPHERS Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com Jason Pagliari Andrew Spires Duey Tam

O

www.savelantau.org

n February 4 members of the Save Lantau Alliance (SLA), along with Lantau residents, staged a rally in Central to protest against dumping activities on the island.

Starting at Central pier, protestors marched to Government House, where they dumped two trolley loads of waste from South Lantau sites. They carried with them photos of the current environmental situation in South Lantau and a banner emblazoned with the words ‘Carrie Lam – Do as you promised. Conserve South Lantau.’

CONTRIBUTORS James Allen Trisha Hughes Elizabeth Kerr Bruce Marsh

According to the SLA, the issue has been ongoing for over 10 years due to loopholes in the Town Planning Ordinance and Waste Disposal Ordinance.

PRINTING Champion Design & Production Company Ltd. Flat D, 18/F, Sing Teck Factory Building, 44 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Hong Kong.

Since the publication of the Sustainable Lantau Blueprint in June 2017, which claims ‘Development in the North and Conservation for the South,’ the SLA and other groups such as Living Islands Movement, Green Power and the Conservation Association have continuously reached out to the Sustainable Lantau Office (SLO) regarding their concerns.

DISCLAIMER The views expressed in Life on Lantau are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.

© BAY MEDIA GROUP LTD

However, the concern groups say the SLO still has no solid plans to stop the continuing issue of dumping and destruction in South Lantau, as they have no enforcement power and can only file objections to applications for projects located on private land.

Since February 2018, two more dumping cases have been found in Pui O, and one land digging issue has been identified at Shui Hau, adding to the ongoing 20 cases.

The SLA is now appealing to the public to support the call to stop the dumping, and it has set up street booths at Central Pier and the Tung Chung bus terminus to collect signatures for a petition.

An online petition to raise public awareness and concern has also been created. To sign the petition, visit supporthk.org.

LANTAU NEWS

WHAT’S HAPPENING IS LA N D WIDE!

By Katrina Mercado

If you would like to see a news story or event featured in this section, email katrina@baymedia.com.hk

WATER TAXI SERVICE CONSIDERED FOR TAI O

P

ublic opposition and financial issues have led the government to scrap plans to extend the Ngong Ping cable car to Tai O. The proposed extension had sparked worries among locals as well as the cable car operator, who cited concerns about the impact of additional tourism on the traditional fishing village.

In an interview with Sing Tao Daily, Sustainable Lantau Office (SLO) director Robin Lee said that improving the capacity of Lantau’s transport network was one of its priorities, and that the newly-established SLO, a bureau within the Civil Engineering and Development Department, hopes to improve Tai O’s external transport links with a water taxi service to Tung Chung.

Photo courtesy of Tom Yam

BIG DEBATE: THE EAST LANTAU METROPOLIS

O

n March 3 Mui Wo resident Dr Tom Yam took part in a debate with Mr Lau Chun-kong, past president and chairman of the land policy panel of the Institute of Surveyors, and a member of the government-appointed Task Force on Land Supply. The debate focused on land demand in Hong Kong and the East Lantau Metropolis (ELM).

Fortune Ferry, which operates the current transport service between Tung Chung, Tai O and Tuen Mun, offers limited daily trips, operating four times a day on weekdays with additional sailings on weekends and public holidays. Lee said that the SLO is working with the Transport Department to come up with a long-term solution to increase the frequency of the trips.

According to Lantau News, the proposed water taxis would be designed to have a high carrying capacity, with a flat bottom in order for passengers to board in Tung Chung and enter the Tai O River.

Lee reassured the public that any developments required for the project would be implemented carefully, so as not to disrupt traditional lifestyles or have an adverse impact on the environment.

During the debate, Lau quoted public writings and current statistics on commercial buildings, and reiterated the government’s proposals from its long-term development plan for 2030+.

According to government estimates, Hong Kong is facing a land shortage of 1,200 hectares to meet housing requirements, however Dr Yam claimed that this figure had been inflated and was therefore invalid. He said that the East Lantau Metropolis, costing HK$400 billion, is not necessary to meet Hong Kong’s future population and housing needs.

Dr Yam went on to urge greater transparency from the Task Force on Land Supply, careful analysis of the government’s proposals, and consideration of viable alternative proposals presented by professional bodies and citizens groups.

www.fortuneferry.com.hk www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU 5

LANTAU NEWS

WHAT’S NEW

DISNEYLAND LAUNCHES GROW AND GLOW PROGRAMME

H

ong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) has announced a twoyear pilot youth programme – ‘Grow and Glow’ – with the Buddhist Fat Ho Memorial College in Tai O.

Commenting on the initiative, school principal Eric Yuon Fuk-lung said, “We want to bring positive change to students and motivate them to excel at school and fill their lives with goals for the future.

We hope that the students gain out-of-school experiences that will be beneficial to their career planning.” He extended his gratitude to HKDL for encouraging the well-rounded development of young people.

Part of HKDL’s youth-related community scheme, ‘Grow and Glow’ provides opportunities for students to perform at HKDL and get involved in different areas of work in the resort. They will also be encouraged to think positively through sharing sessions with HKDL’s young cast members.

Samuel Lau, managing director of HKDL, said, “We hope [that] through this joint school programme, we [can] open up the horizon of the students in exploring future possibilities. Teenagers will shine when they follow their dreams. They will then gain the confidence and the strength to strive for a better future.”

www.pause.hk

PAUSE HK EXPANSION IN MUI WO

P

ause HK, a dedicated and fully-equipped rehab-fitness studio, offering Pilates, yoga and dance classes, has recently expanded its space in Mui Wo with a new location behind the Silvermine Hotel. With two new treatment rooms, as well as a retail business supporting local creatives and natural health products, Pause hosts group classes, organises workshops and retreats, and offers private one-on-one sessions in all matters concerning balancing the mind, body and spirit.

Services offered include physiotherapy, osteopathy, hypnotherapy, counselling, movement therapy, homeopathy, reiki and crystal healing, aromatherapy massage and treatments, and sound bowl therapy. Pause also organises monthly community meet ‘n greets, pre- and postnatal fitness services, and various activities for kids. In conjunction with freelance practitioners, Pause aims to create a sense of wellness and community.

Readers are invited to meet some of the specialists and ambassadors over wine, and check out the new treatment rooms on April 12, 7pm to 9pm. To book your slot, email hello@pause.hk. For more on Pause, call 9708 0187 or visit the Pause Lantau Facebook page.

www.hong-kong-hotels.ws

ARTVPLASTIC CAMPAIGN

I

n an innovative campaign to help fight Hong Kong’s growing plastic tide, eco-charity Plastic Free Seas has teamed up with renowned local artists Martin Lever and William Furniss to make bespoke original artworks available for sale. Funds raised will be used to create Hong Kong’s first in-depth online information and learning platform on marine pollution, which will include lesson planning tools designed to help encourage behavioural change.

To find out more, email dana.winograd@plasticfreeseas.org or mglever73@gmail.com, or visit plasticfreeseas.org.

A TAVOLA NOW OPEN!

O

www.atavola.hk

pen just two months, A Tavola in Tung Chung is already proving a hit with locals. Its extensive multi-cuisine menu has something for the whole family, from salads and pastas to burgers and mains from the grill. There’s the option for in or outdoor dining, plus a live band every weekend and soul sessions every Saturday night from 9pm.

Photo courtesy of Martin Lever

6 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

To make a booking, call 2321 5500 or visit www.atavola.hk.

LANTAU NEWS

EVENTS

VIEW AGNES PANG’S RECYCLED ARTWORK

T

ung Chung resident Agnes Pang is presenting her latest recycled artwork, A Green Spring, at Central MTR Station exit J, from April 24 to June 30. Using a variety of unwanted materials, such as foam nets and toilet paper rolls, Agnes creates pieces to demonstrate to the public that the “rebirth of garbage” can bring joy and happiness.

Photo by Duey Tam

MELANIE POTGIETER’S LAST BEER DASH

Photo courtesy of Agnes Pang

Pang has been promoting recycled art for six years, and her unique works have been featured in various media. She is also the founder of Draw 2 Art and Language Studio in Wanchai, providing language courses in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Japanese, as well as art classes for adults and children.

Says Pang, “Besides teaching traditional drawing techniques and use of different media, we encourage students to recycle materials by using everyday items to make art craft. We hope they can learn to protect the environment through reusing and recycling.”

To see more of Pang’s artwork and find out about Draw 2 Art and Language Studio, visit www. draw-2.com.

APRIL EVENTS at a glance

8 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

T

he fun-filled Lantau Beer Dash on March 17 marked the 10th instalment of the race, and the stepping down of race founder Melanie Potgieter as organiser.

“It has been a lot of fun over the years, and I have really enjoyed the way that people from all over Hong Kong have a great day together,” she says. “Thousands of photos are taken every year [turn to page 34 to see a selection], and people laugh a lot.

“We have had outstanding support from local businesses over the years including HomeSolutions, Phoenix Wills and Bay Media. Also, San Miguel has always supported us with the donation of the beer. The restaurants in South Lantau have donated prizes every year and have supported us in the hosting of the event.”

The Dash has raised over HK$700,000 for animal causes over the years, not including this year, and Potgieter hopes that whoever takes over will continue to support the animals of South Lantau.

“The part I have played is small; it is only one event,” Potgieter adds.

“I would like to thank and give recognition to the real people of Lantau: Okka Scherer, Jacqui Green, Jean Leung, Kathy Daxon and the crowd at Lantau Buffalo Association and Living Islands Movement. They are my heroes and my inspiration.”

We cater for outdoor parties

www.currylounge.com.hk | Tel: 2960 0911 2960 1977 Opening Hours: 11:30am to 11:00pm Monday to Sunday 2960 1766 Address: Shop S G/F, Seaview Crescent, 8 Tung Chung, Waterfront Road, Tung Chung, Lantau Island

/curryloungehk

FREE DELIVERY Service within Tung Chung

Delivery in Discovery Bay and South Lantau for orders over $500

GIVEAWAYS

Here’s your chance to win great prizes!

Life on Lantau prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until April 10 to apply.

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

www.brunomars.com

WIN TICKETS TO BRUNO MARS 24K MAGIC WORLD TOUR AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) is offering one reader two tickets (worth HK$2,088 each) to see the Hong Kong leg of Bruno Mars’ 24K Magic World Tour at AsiaWorld-Expo, Chek Lap Kok on either May 12 or 13 at 8pm.

Multiple Grammy Award winner and multi-platinum selling singer, songwriter, producer, director and musician Bruno Mars is celebrating his latest chart-topping album 24K Magic, in his global tour. This is his first full-length tour since the hugely successful Moonshine Jungle World Tour, the Hong Kong leg of which was performed at AWE in 2014. For more information, visit www.asiaworld-expo.com.

WIN A HK$500 CURRY LOUNGE DINING VOUCHER Curry Lounge in Tung Chung is offering one reader a dining voucher (worth HK$500).

Curry Lounge serves up a wide assortment of Indian cuisine (vegetarian and non-vegetarian) from all over India. Signature dishes include chaat (a savoury snack), shorba (aromatic soup) and tandoori-grilled meats. Curry Lounge is located at Shop S G/F, Seaview Crescent, 8 Tung Chung Waterfront Road, Tung Chung. To book a table call 2960 1977; to find out more visit www.currylounge.com.hk.

Photo by Andrew Spires

Congratulations to last issue’s winners Daniella Eadon for a case of Colmant Brut Chardonnay NV from Value Vigilantes; Holly Rapoza for a Primavera dish by Stahl from Inside; and Shaun Connell and William Ho for tickets to the Longines Masters of Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo.

OFFICE 3483 5003

www.homesolutions.hk

Kelly Merrick Sharon Riley Misako Takato Kim Jomar

9331 8141 9664 4749 9757 0927 9748 2367

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

SOUTH LANTAU PROPERTIES

$24.5M

BUTTERFLY CREST VILLA - CHEUNG SHA 1930’ Net + Rooftop + Terrace

Beautiful split level villa in sought after area. 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths inc 1 ensuite. Semi open dining area with separate lower level lounge opening onto manicured garden and decked patio. Gated estate, communal pool and private car park.

$5.5M

MUI WO VILLAGE HOUSE 1050’ + 350’ Rooftop

Newly renovated village house in Mui Wo. 2 Beds, 2 Baths inc 1 ensuite. Open plan design on every floor, neutral palette with spacious bathrooms. Rooftop with great views and a quiet village life!

$55K

$95K

OOR D O T OOR D.B. & U FREE D A LANT O T Y ER DELIV

LANTAU'S ONLINE WINE SHOP WWW.VIGILANTFORVALUE.COM

WHITESANDS 2355’ + 2117’ Garden + 896’ Rooftop

Stunning new contemporary house. 3 Beds, 3 Baths. Large dining, living and family room areas with modern kitchen. Spacious bedrooms, rooftop and communal swimming pool. Surrounded by lush greenery and a beautiful coastline in Cheung Sha.

VILLAS IN CHEUNG SHA 2158’ Net + Garden

Stylish Zen style semi detached villa in Cheung Sha. 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths.

Villa featuring bamboo flooring with separate kitchen, spacious living and dining areas. Covered car park, CCTV camera and alarm. Gorgeous sea views and a short walk to beach.

$30K - $32K LEYBURN VILLAS - CHEUNG SHA 1150’ Net

Stylish villa nestled in great neighbourhood. 3 Beds, 2 Baths inc 1 ensuite. High ceilings in open plan dining/living room opening onto balcony. Private car park, communal swimming pool, gym BBQ areas and tennis court.

Making you feel at home is our business

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

C-044849

Infusing style and skilled craftmanship in your home

STORE LOCATIONS

SHOP ONLINE

Prince’s Building, Central T: 2537 6298 Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau T: 2873 1795 The Repulse Bay, Repulse Bay T: 2812 6685 17 Chung Hau Street, Mui Wo T: 2890 8606

Enjoy free delivery to your door* or click & collect from our stores WWW.INSIDE.COM.HK *Minimum order HK$800

Photos by May James, Rudmer Hoekstra, Natasha Ramsey and Asha Sridhar

DISPATCH

12  LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

Tsing Ma Bridge by May James

SPOTLIGHT

Described by many as a photographer’s dream, it’s easy to see why Lantau has provided the perfect backdrop for so many iconic images over the years. Claire Severn reports

B

eautiful, natural, relaxed – just a few of the many words that come to mind when you hear the name Lantau. The largest of Hong Kong’s numerous islands, our home boasts a diverse mix of people, places, scenery and wildlife, making it an absolute dream location for photography enthusiasts.

“I love photographing Lantau,” opens May James of May James Photography. “It is a beautiful, dynamic and multicultural island with gorgeous scenery and tremendous opportunity for exploration.”

May lives in Tung Chung, where she finds plenty of opportunities to snap the special moments that make North Lantau the vibrant place it is. “You find thousands of emotions and interactions every day,” she says. “It really is a very special place.”

Another fan of the north side of the island is Asha Sridhar, also a Tung Chung resident. Inspired by her surroundings, Asha decided to found a group for photographers in the area, and so began the Tung Chung Photography Enthusiasts group.

“I started the group almost on a whim,” explains Asha. “My idea was to provide a platform for amateur and professional photographers in Lantau to share their works of art. We are still a relatively small group with just under 70 members, but it is growing. Going forward, my plan is to organise group activities, such as photography walks or hikes and maybe even talks from professional photographers.”

Caterpillar by Natasha Ramsey

Of course, one of the most photographed parts of the island is South Lantau, with its stunning country park, coastline and abundant nature, and it’s there that Mui Wo resident Natasha Ramsey is able to capture some breath-taking shots of the local landscape and wildlife.

“Lantau is full of wildlife and beauty; it truly is a photographer’s dream,” says Natasha. “Hong Kong is a known biodiversity hotspot and Lantau illustrates this perfectly. No matter where you go, there are so many different things to take photos of, from the iconic buffalo to the amazing views and beaches. We really are so very lucky to live in such a wonderful place, and that’s why we must do everything we can to keep it unspoilt.”

But it’s not just local snappers who appreciate Lantau’s unique diversity – photographers from other corners of Hong Kong enjoy making the trip to explore the island’s rich, cultural heritage.

Rudmer Hoekstra of rudmer.space photography lives in Central and makes it out to Lantau a few times a year. “We have friends living in Mui Wo, and I like the ‘laid-backness’ you can still find on the island,” he says. “There’s a real mix of tradition and modernity, which makes for some fantastic photos.”

Here, the four keen photographers share some of their favourite photos from across Lantau, and explain what they feel the images say about our incredible island. www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU 13



DISPATCH North Lantau

“I took this photo at Yat Tung Estate with my iPhone 6s,” says May. “I was out shopping and didn’t have my camera with me. I was really inspired to see my friend’s daughter climb up on the bench and sit between the two elderly gentlemen. To me, the photo is all about being.

It shows the purity and innocence of young kids. Kids are unlimited – it is we, the adults, who limit them.

“There are lots of special moments to capture on Lantau – just keep your eyes open and use the tools you have to hand at the time.”

Yat Tung Estate by May James

“I love the airport! It is a chaotic place packed with emotions... happiness, sadness, excitement, love, courage, fear, disappointment, loneliness and many other elements of human interconnection,” May says. “I also love the design of the buildings – the architecture is beautiful.

“To achieve this shot, I used my Fujifilm X100F and placed it on a shiny surface to create a mirror image. The reflection and the silhouettes create a sense of mystery for me as well as an open view, showing that Lantau is a portal to the rest of the world.”

Hong Kong International Airport, Chek Lap Kok, by May James

“This particular photo was taken in Tung Chung on the road to the airport,” Asha says. “I was out for an early morning walk with my dog and had stopped on the bridge. I looked across, and the effect of the sun’s rays on the hills and the sea was breath taking. The cable-car system only served to enhance the scene.

“I took this photo on my iPhone 7 Plus and haven’t made any adjustments, save for cropping the road and the traffic whizzing past, and applying a standard filter that is available on all iPhones. To me, this photo represents space and communing with nature, it represents peace and solitude, and it also represents a very positive spiritual energy.”



Cable cars at Tung Chung by Asha Sridhar

14 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

Looking for a

top class

International Kindergarten ?

KHT features small class sizes, a beautiful and natural learning environment with lots of space where families are always welcome.

• International EYFS Curriculum enriched with Dramatic art • Whole day and half day program for Pre-Nursery and Kindergarten students • Small class sizes with wonderful teachers • Designer campus on the beach front in Mui Wo • School bus service for Tung Chung and South Lantau • International themes with Cantonese & Putonghua to get children World ready

www.kht.edu.hk k ht i nter nat i ona l k i nderga r ten G/F, Sea Crest Terrace, 19 Mui Wo Ferry Pier Rd, Lantau Island 大 嶼 山 梅 窩 梅 窩 碼 頭 道 1 9 號 海 愉 花 園 地 下

2109 9886

2109 9896

DISPATCH South Lantau “To me, this photo exudes peace and tranquillity,” says Natasha. “Whenever I go to the Buddha, I feel a sense of calm. On this particular day, I knew that I wanted the Buddha to be my main focus, but I still wanted the trees and the Chinese symbol in the photo, so I decided to use them as a frame for the Buddha.

“I’ve seen and taken a lot of photos of the Buddha over the years, but I’ve never seen this angle on it before – I just happened to be sat in the right place.

It’s a good example of how you should always look for new perspectives on things. Try not to follow what everyone else is doing – unusual angles tend to work well and having a natural frame is always nice.”

The Big Buddha, Ngong Ping, by Natasha Ramsey

“The comedy element of the colourful swimmer alongside the large, chewing, grey creature is what makes this photo for me,” says Rudmer. “I took the snap using a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) and a long zoom lens, and had to run into position to get a good shot.

“I loved the man versus beast encounter – it looks like the buffalo knows the drill. This image shows that Lantau is a place where humans and animals can coexist peacefully.”

Selfie time on Lower Cheung Sha Beach by Rudmer Hoekstra

“I took this photo in the back streets of Tai O,” says Rudmer. “It was taken from across the water with a DSLR and a long zoom lens. I was really intrigued by this gentleman, who was taking such great care turning his fish, which were drying in the sun.

He was lining them up with almost mathematical precision – so professional and respectful of his job.

“I find the photo portrays a feeling of nostalgia – perhaps the man feels the same and is doing a job that has been passed down to him. It shows how Lantau is a place where tradition meets modernity more than anywhere else in Hong Kong.”

FIND IT

Tai O by Rudmer Hoekstra

16 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

• • • •

May James Photography, www.siusingallery.com Natasha Ramsey Photography Facebook page rudmer.space photography, www.rudmer.space Tung Chung Photography Enthusiasts Facebook page

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

Take it easy and feel safe in the knowledge

that your loved ones are covered should the

worst happen. Be prepared - contact us today.

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

Carey, Suen Will Services Ltd 8B Wing Yee Commercial Building 5 Wing Kut Street Central

Tel: +852 2542 2285 email: annette@careysuen.com website: www.careysuen.com

Photos by Andrew Spires

PERSONA

AmeR icAn Nin j a

Tung Chung resident Tommy Caserto may not be the island’s only kung fu instructor, but he’s likely the only one able to boast going to toe-to-toe with Donnie Yen. Elizabeth Kerr reports

18 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

“I

don’t want to get hit by a bus either,” Tommy Caserto states rather obviously, though he’s not referring to an average commute to work. Tommy, you see, is one of those guys fighting it out in almost every movie with a digit in its title – and to be fair almost any movie. Tommy is the guy who takes the hits: he’s a stunt and fight performer.

It’s a thankless job, and possibly a dying art, that we consumers of entertainment rarely think about.

But if you do stop and think about it, really focus on the fight scenes in the action flick you’re watching (rather than on Jason Statham’s face), you’ll be amazed by the way these stunt ninja types move.

They do everything at lightning speed (jump, crouch, kick, turn) and, of course, they can take a punch. (Check out Tommy’s 2015 action reel at www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCEACy7xBH0.)

“It’s addicting, and an adrenaline rush,” Tommy says of fight performing. “But most people don’t want to do it, especially when you realise how you have to work your way up – and that you have to be the bad guy.”

Added to which, accidents do happen – the producers of The Walking Dead, Hawaii Five-0 and American Made are all mired in lawsuits due to stunt performer deaths. And as a fight stand-in, Tommy expects to make contact with his opponent, the very thing that originally set Hong Kong action movies apart.

“I usually come home sore and bruised from my action jobs; it’s usually never a physically easy job. Fun but not easy,” he says.

“An action actor and stuntman’s job is very demanding, intense, and more times than not nerve-wracking, and we are forced to stay totally in the moment and focus, or else it could lead to serious injury.”

Fighting spirit A native of Long Island, New York who grew up in New Jersey, Tommy now splits his time between Shenzhen and Tung Chung, having landed in Asia in 2011 after nailing two auditions for a Kung Fu Panda live touring show. He headed to Shanghai for the final auditions when the show was abruptly cancelled, and decided to stay.

“I was coming out of a lot of years of partying and poor behaviour; I wasn’t doing great. I thought I’d stay in Hong Kong and get away from all that,” Tommy recalls.

Like so many filmmakers, Tommy started his career messing about with friends at home and appearing in indie productions. And like so many Hong Kong transients, he was visiting a friend here and found himself edging into a career.

“I became interested naturally, just from watching Hong Kong films,” he says. “Once I got here I was still auditioning and searching for a way into the industry, slowly working my way in.”

www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU 19



PERSONA Now 31, Tommy has been studying various martial arts since he was 12, starting with taekwondo. Age 13, after renting a ‘drunken fist’ kung fu video from a shop in Chinatown, he turned to Shaolin kung fu (most famous overseas for being the school Bruce Lee avenged in Enter the Dragon). He trained under 34th generation Shaolin temple fighting monk Shifu Shi Guolin, learning advanced skills in sparring, aerial kicking and acrobatics, and apart from a short break to “chase girls” in his teens, he’s been at it ever since.

Tommy at the Caribbean Coast

Action reel Tommy specialises in martial arts action, stunts, acrobatics, tumbling and parkour. He’s part of the Lau family stunt team and featured in Hands of Lau (2014), a documentary about Lau Kar Leung. He played a bodyguard in the film Helios (2015), directed

by Sunny Luk and Lok Man Leung, and a Russian criminal in VOR: Trust Me I’m A Thief (2014), written and directed by Mui Wo resident Philippe Joly. You can also spot him in the final fight in Beef and Broccoli (2013), directed by American impresario Damon Dash.

At first glance, Tommy doesn’t look like an action star. He’s not a hulking mass like a Schwarzenegger stand-in; he’s slight and unassuming, drinks coffee, and has a soft-spoken, lowkey demeanour that loosens up the longer you talk to him. Not something you’d associate with action filmmaking. But after some extra training at Hit Hut Cinematic Action in Cheung Sha Wan and Hung Kuen Academy in Tai Kok Tsui, extra study with 30-year veteran Mark Houghton (The Legend of the Drunken Master) and meeting local industry doyen Mike Leeder, Tommy found himself on the road to an increasingly viable career.

Ironically, Tommy – who counts legends Bruce Lee, Lau Kar Leung, Sammo Hung and Jackie Chan as influences – appeared on the scene in Hong Kong just as the industry was pulling itself out of the tailspin that started in 1997. Things are a bit better now, and China’s industry (chock full of Hong Kong talent) is chugging along nicely, but motion capture and computer-generated imagery could be making traditional stunting and fighting a dying art.

As for his particular set of skills becoming obsolete, Tommy isn’t worried yet. “I feel like I have time to do what I want to do. I won’t be doing it forever; eventually I’ll move on to something else,” he philosophises.

Coming soon to a theatre near you Tommy’s experience in Asia could make him a valuable resource in Hollywood (he’s working towards a Screen Actors Guild card) but if he does decide to try something else, it could well be teaching.

He’s dabbled in gymnastics training since 2009, and now side-lines as a Shaolin kung fu instructor for children and adults both here and in Shenzhen. Devoting himself to training others would be a completely new arena, should his conscience demand it.

“Admittedly sometimes I do feel bad about making action films – all the killing and the violence on screen,” he says. “I’d rather do more stuff beyond fighting. It’s working well for me now – I’m a foreigner, and my level of skill and action fighting is good. It is what it is, and for now I’m just going with the flow.”

That flow will be coming soon to a theatre near you in what’s shaping up to be a strong 2018 for action movies. Aside from a Chinese television series and more web content, Tommy is set to kick ass in the forthcoming Indonesian actioner Buffalo Boys, sophomore director Kam Ka-wai’s Big Brother with Donnie Yen, and Abduction with Scott Adkins – both action titans.

In the meantime, Tommy will keep up his training in and around his Tung Chung home, basking in the calm of Hong Kong before heading back to the mainland to shoot another Adkins film in the spring. Wait, what?

“I find it very peaceful. Even though it’s fast-paced, I find it’s really chill,” Tommy argues of Hong Kong life. He knows that sounds strange, but after a recent trip back to New Jersey to catch up with friends and family, Tommy claims he found himself pining for Hong Kong’s singular charms.

“After maybe a month I started to miss it… I like Tung Chung. It’s quiet, there are lots of places to train. And,” he adds with a grin, “the clubhouse in my building has a karaoke machine!” Which, in its own way, is just as addicting as action filmmaking.

Tommy specialises in Shaolin kung fu

20 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

If you’d like to sign up for a private kung fu class with Tommy Caserto call 5579 7274, or email tommycaserto@aol.com.

RELOCATION ANNOUNCEMENT We are pleased to announce the relocation of our Central practice.

We will be moving two floors up and merging with Smith & Jain Dental & Implant Practice into bigger premises with expanded facilities.

701 - 703, Century Square, 1 D’Aguilar Street, Central Tel: 2526 2383 & 2117 4180 www.drrichardtinlin.com A PART OF

SPOTLIGHT

Keeping it real Photos by Andrew Spires and courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

T

Concerned by government plans for its future, Bruce Marsh reveals what makes Tai O such a well-loved tourist attraction and uncovers a little bit of its history

ucked snugly away in the south-western corner of Lantau, Tai O fishing village is locked in the past. Having developed as a fishing harbour and saltern (an area where salt is made) over the past 200 years, it is rich in history and local colour, and as one of the last bastions of Hong Kong heritage to survive territory-wide development, it is a fantastic place to observe traditional village life.

Fishermen still live in squatter huts and brightly coloured stilt houses, built above a matrix of waterways, and as recently as the 1960s, villagers caught 30% of all seafood sold in Hong Kong. While the fishing industry has dwindled, salted fish and shrimp paste vendors still eke out a living, as do purveyors of Tai O’s famous coalcooked egg waffles.

Tung Chung, and widening the surrounding roads to allow increased traffic access, Merrin says tourist numbers will have to be strictly limited going forward if Tai O is to retain its unique character.

Maritime heritage and fishing lore Today, Tai O is mostly inhabited by Tankas or boat people – a nomadic southern Chinese ethnic group who first settled there over two centuries ago, having previously lived on junks in the South China Sea. Though many now live onshore in stilt houses, some of the older ‘sea gypsies’ still live on their boats. People flock to Tai O, the so-called ‘Venice of Hong Kong,’ to soak up the village’s maritime heritage and fishing lore.

“I find Tai O a great tourist attraction as there are no malls and franchised business. You get to interact with the business owners, and their shops cater to both local residents and tourists,” opens Merrin Pearse chairman of Living Islands Movement (LIM).

Tai O comprises an intriguing maze of small alleys and footpaths, and its buildings are usually interconnected, mirroring the tight-knit community that lives on and above the water. Wander down Tai Ping Street and you can visit the tiny workshop of Nam Mo Gong, the only remaining Nam Mo in Tai O.

Noting that the government is discussing building a light rail link to Tai O from Tung Chung, increasing the existing ferry service from Tung Chung and Tuen Mun, introducing a water taxi service from

“Nam Mo, traditional Taoist religious practitioners, were once very important in the daily lives of fishermen in villages like Tai O, where they would bless boats and festivals and even act as exorcisers,”

22 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

explains Lantau-based tour guide Stephen Tse of Hong Kong with Stephen. Today, Nam Mo Gong is the last of a dying breed, still selling religious artefacts out of his 100-year-old family business.

Not surprisingly, worshipping deities who protect fishermen and sea traders is still a regular practice in Tai O, something you can observe at 1746-built Hung Shing Temple. At Kwan Tai Temple, locals have prayed to the god of fraternal brotherhood, loyalty and righteousness since 1488, in the hope that he will protect them from harm.

At nearby Fan Lau Fort, built in 1729 to protect ships on the Pearl River Delta, you can get a feel for Tai O’s piratical past. Stories that would be impossible to substantiate have Tai O as the base of daring smuggling and piracy operations, with the inlets of the river providing not just protection from the weather but an excellent hiding place.

Stilt houses sit close to the water

Characterful colonial outpost Author of The Tiger Hunters of Tai O (2017) John Saeki describes Tai O as a “murky and fascinating outpost… a place that positively reeks of character, tenacity and rugged independence.”

John chose to base his book in Tai O after visiting the Tai O Heritage Hotel, previously the 1902-built Tai O Marine Police Station. Set in 1954, Tiger Hunters sees Eurasian police officer Simon Lee banished from the comforts of Central to a wild and rugged land (Tai O), for having an affair with the police commissioner’s daughter.

“The Old Tai O Marine Police Station book is full of great photos and anecdotes about colonial life at the station,” John opens.

Kwan Tai Temple



www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU 23

SPOTLIGHT

Local shopkeepers eke out a living

“There are pictures of young operators at the radio, recruit football teams and sweaty gweilo officers. And in another book Tai O Love Stories of the Fishing Village, by Wong Wai King, I found a picture of a pair of marine policemen on a sampan in the 50s, both looking young and lively, one with his sailor’s cap roguishly cocked to one side, the other ostentatiously showing off a big watch on his wrist… I wondered, what’s all that about?”

While John is quick to point out that he is not a historian, Tiger Hunters references dramatic events in history – the march of the British colonialists, the opium wars, China in transition, the Second World War – and their impact on Tai O. “There are terrible stories of the Japanese occupation, of starvation, violence, forced labour, and a torture chamber set up in the old Tai O Gas Station,” John says. “But there are stories of resistance too, for example from Wong Kei-tsai, said to be a triad, who always carried a pair of guns, and helped out the resistance by smuggling salt and bringing in food from mainland ports. And there were Tai O villagers who joined the guerrillas on Lantau’s hillsides.

“The Tai O Marine Police Station was liberated briefly by the resistance fighters until the Japanese took it back. As far as I know, it’s the only strategic site in Hong Kong that was wrestled back from the Japanese during the occupation.”

Should you visit what is now the tastefully renovated nine-bedroom Tai O Heritage Hotel, you’ll be treated to the story of a rogue Indian police officer who killed his English superior, and held his wife and child hostage there in 1918.

A treat for tourists and locals alike

24 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

A maze of small alleys and footpaths

What the future holds Moving on from Tai O’s colourful past, the question is how will development plans, outlined in the Lantau Blueprint 2030+, affect the village? On the surface, Tai O seems well protected, as the blueprint advocates development in the North and conservation for the South, but there’s no denying that the government wants to up tourism on Lantau and grow its population. So, what does the future hold for Tai O? “The tourist capacity of Tai O does need to be limited,” LIM’s Merrin reiterates. “Widening the existing road and increasing the number of bus permits for the closed South Lantau Road will only flood Tai O more than it already gets each weekend.

“While plans to build a cable car extension from Ngong Ping to Tai O have been scrapped, the ideas to build a light rail link from Tung Chung and to ‘improve’ access to the village by road, ferry and water taxi will open up Tai O for more mass development, unless the right urban planning rules are put in place.”

It’s hoped that the government will tread carefully with its development plans in and around Tai O. After all, as Merrin says, “Do we really need another Stanley-type place where the rawness of a very historic village has been lost?”

FIND IT • • • •

Hong Kong with Stephen, www.stephentourhk.com Living Islands Movement, www.livingislands.org.hk Tai O Heritage Hotel, www.taioheritagehotel.com The Tiger Hunters of Tai O, www.blacksmithbooks.com

Tai O Heritage Hotel

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

FITNESS

Stroke of genius Photo by Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com

According to local swim teacher Jennifer Atepolikhine taking up swimming is one of the best things you can do for yourself. James Allen dips into her world

W

ith hundreds of millions of enthusiasts worldwide, and it’s ‘for anyone’ ethos, swimming is one of the most popular organised sports on the planet. When you consider its numerous fitness, health and mentalhealth benefits, it’s easy to see why.

“Swimming’s an incredible exercise; you can enjoy it from babyhood right through to old age because of its low-impact nature,” opens Lantau-based swim teacher Jennifer Atepolikhine, who was first thrown into a swimming pool aged one.

Utilise all the main muscle groups Swimming became an Olympic sport in 1896, and there’s no doubt that it can help you get fit, if you take it seriously. According to a report by Florida Swim Network in November last year, swimming

burns more calories than running or biking. Biking burns around 483 an hour and running burns 557. Swimming at a fast rate can burn up to 784 calories in a single hour.

More importantly, swimming can get you a strong, toned physique. It engages every major muscle in the body, including core abdominal, lower back, shoulder, forearm, upper back, glutes, hamstring and hip flexor muscles.

“Due to the repetitive nature of the strokes and the fact that water is more resistant than air, swimming is a tremendous exercise,” says Jennifer. “You don’t get bulky muscles, they’re longer muscles.

It’s also very good for your shoulders. More than any other sport, swimming utilises all the main muscle groups and many of the smaller muscle groups as well, so you’re really getting a head-totoe workout.” www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU 27



FITNESS Swim like a fish As a qualified Total Immersion coach, Jennifer’s primary focus is to teach swimmers to move through the water efficiently. She suggests that anyone looking to improve their stamina and speed focuses on coordination, balance, buoyancy and streamlining.

Due to the repetitive nature of the strokes and the fact that water is more resistant than air, swimming is a tremendous exercise

“Beginners tend to do a lot of kicking and thrashing around in the pool but you lose a lot of energy that way,” Jennifer says. “You need to regulate your breathing and your body movements to become more efficient. A lot of the propulsion needs to come from your core. Less is more because there’s less resistance going through the water.

“Apparently in the US, swimmers have the highest grade point average because they’re always counting their laps and their strokes, and their coordination is excellent. I’ve learnt that swimming enhances communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain,” says Jennifer. “Breaststroke is the best for this because it’s the most complex stroke to master neurologically.”

“You should be able to keep going, barely raising your heart rate, if you practice this way,” Jennifer adds. “Think of a vessel or a submarine – your front is quite narrow; your feet are quite narrow.

It’s often called fish-like swimming because everything feels weightless and the drag is minimised. With Total Immersion, you end your stroke and glide, relying on your momentum.”

As with most sports, swimming can supercharge our bodies’ store of endorphins; the hormone responsible for our feeling on top of the world after a good workout. This plays an important role in reducing stress and anxiety. Jennifer is quick to point out that swimming can be a meditative activity, enhancing mindfulness.

Jennifer, who joined a swim team at age seven, where she trained for about 10 hours a week, emphasises that most young children find it easy to learn to swim, and encourages parents to get them in the pool as early as six months. She is confident that, given the right coach, adults can pick up the skills easily too, even those who are nervous around water.

“With adults, the biggest challenge is getting them comfortable in the pool, especially if they’ve had a traumatic experience in the past,” she says. “It takes a couple of weeks to build up their trust and get them to feel at ease in the water. It’s about slowly introducing them to the water, and helping them trust the water and their buoyancy.”

When training up already proficient swimmers, Jennifer analyses their stroke, videoing them underwater at different angles. “Maybe it’s the kick that’s the problem, maybe it’s the hip rotation – it can be something very simple like timing,” she says. “Once your coach has pinpointed the issue, she can give you different focal points to work on.”

“I think when you’re older, you start thinking of fitness as something to improve mental health – something that will help you deal with pressure and achieve balance,” she says. “Swimming’s quite meditative as you focus on a few things – your breathing, your strokes.

You get into a relaxed breathing tempo, and hopefully when you get out of the water you stay that way.”

Even if you look no further than Tung Chung public pool, swimming is something that is easy to pick up and benefit from. And, as Jennifer says, “One of the good things about swimming is that it’s not an expensive sport; you buy goggles and a swimsuit, and you’re ready to go!”

FAST FACTS

Swimming.. .

lengthens and strengthens muscles

Get your mind in shape The good news is that swimming doesn’t only improve your core strength and fitness levels, it can assist with breathing problems, anxiety and even make you more intelligent!

“Swimming’s amazing for cardiovascular because you learn to control your breath,” Jennifer explains. “The rhythmic breathing involved increases your lung capacity, and your lung and heart strength. If you have any breathing problems – with the Hong Kong air pollution these last 10 or 20 years, a lot of kids have been born with breathing problems – swimming’s really good.”

A number of studies even link swimming at an early age to increased intelligence. A 2016 study at Griffith University, Queensland, Australia, sampling almost 7,000 swimmers under the age of five, showed an advance of up to 15 months against their non-swimming peers in their ability to follow directions and develop language skills.

28 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

can help with respiratory problems

can reduce anxiety and increase mindfulness is proven to improve cognition in children

A qualified Total Immersion and AUSTSWIM coach, Jennifer Atepolikhine teaches swimming throughout Lantau and Hong Kong Island. She also volunteers and provides free classes for foreign domestic workers and refugees through SPLASH Foundation. You can contact her at jafa85271@gmail.com.

THE NETWORK

EVENT SCENE BLOSSOMING ON LANTAU Contributed by Aero-Bridgehead-Economy Employers Network

www.wikimedia.org

O

ne of the most spectacular events hosted by AsiaWorldExpo (AWE) this year has to be the Longines Masters of Hong Kong, which was held over three days, from February 9 to 11. After Paris and before New York, the Asian leg of the Longines Masters Series is one of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world, bringing together decision-makers, VIPs and top riders from across the globe.

This February was the sixth consecutive time the Longines Masters has been presented by AWE. The event has become an integral part of the region’s social and cultural calendar, combining heart-pounding show jumping with world-class entertainment, shopping, fashion, art and gastronomy.

This year, to enrich the spirit of EXPOtainment, expo cum entertainment, the first Asia Horse Week was held alongside the Longines Masters, providing a perfect East-meets-West rendezvous for guests to share their experience and exchange knowledge. The catering was supplied by AWE’s dedicated in-venue F&B team, a move which neatly illustrated one of the latest MICE trends – interaction and comprehension.

DISCOVER RUGBYTOTS TUNG CHUNG & DB - Aged 2-5

"Best sports class in all of Hong Kong, and we've tried a lot!"

- Jane, a rugbytots parent

Email ben@rugbytots.hk to book your your son or daughter in for a free trial this April!

While the great success of the Longines Masters proves that AWE is a world leader in the MICE industry, expert at bringing large groups of people together for meetings, incentives, conventions and events, so does the series of international concerts that have packed out the venue in recent years. Katy Perry, The Chainsmokers, John Legend and James Blunt all rocked the AWE Arena in March, following in the footsteps of numerous other big-name performers, including Britney Spears, Madonna and Ariana Grande. Music lovers will have already bought tickets to see King of Pop Bruno Mars playing on May 12 and 13.

It is believed that eventgoers of all types, benefiting from Lantau’s cross-border facilities and comprehensive transport network, will continue to enjoy the exciting MICE activities provided at AWE for years to come.

Sponsored Content

Aero-Bridgehead-Economy Employers Network (The Network) aims to capitalise on the advantages of Lantau’s future development through strategic and innovative solutions. It has been established to upgrade and transform Lantau and the Northwest New Territories.

To find out more, email info@abeen.com.hk. www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU 29

HK HAPPENINGS

GFI HKFC 10S

Hong Kong Football Club, Happy Valley To kick off Hong Kong’s famo u s rug by we e k, the GFI HKFC 10s sees the game’s top athletes playing in iconic 10-a-side matches.

2017 champion, UBB Gavekal of Fiji, returns to battle it out with 15 other teams. For tickets, starting at HK$100, visit www.ticketflap.com.

April 4-5

rugbywrapup.com

WALLABIES SEVENS LUNCH

10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN HK THIS MONTH! Like the Life on Lantau Facebook page for event reminders

Kerry Hotel, Hung Hom

April 6

HONG KONG SEVENS

Hong Kong Stadium, Causeway Bay B e i n g t h e s eve n t h tournament on the World Series calendar, the Cathay Pacific/ HSBC Hong Kong Sevens attracts some of the world’s greatest rugby players and thousands of urfc.hk fa n s f ro m a l l ove r the world. To make the celebration even bigger, enjoy the Hong Kong Sevens Festival at Lee Gardens in Causeway Bay until April 8. For match tickets, starting at HK$450, visit www.viagogo.com.

April 6-8

fijione.tv

Get a chance to be seated with one of the Wallabies stars at the Classic Wallabies Sevens Long Lunch hosted by Master of Ceremony, Will Hansen of the USRC Tigers. Enjoy mingling over lunch and drinks, and hearing some of the players speak. Guests also get a complementary transfer to the Hong Kong Stadium in Causeway Bay after the event.

For tickets, starting at HK$900, visit www.ticketflap.com.

HOKA STAIRMASTER TWINS RACE

SPARTAN RACE

Tai Tam Reservoir, Tai Tam Country Park

The Hoka Stairmaster April 7-8 Tw i n s ra ce fo l lo w s t h e classic Trailwalker training route, starting at Parkview along Tai Tam Reservoir.

Runners make their way to Violet Hill, climb the Tw i n s to re a c h S ta n ley www.lantaubasecamp.com Gap Road, and then race back to the starting point. The route covers 10 kilometres with a 1,000-metre+ elevation. Categories include runners aged 18 to 35, 36 to 50, and 50 up. For more information, visit events.lantaubasecamp.com.

30 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

Ha Pak Nai, Yuen Long April 14

gate20.com

The Spartan Race offers obstacles that are designed to challenge and take you out of your comfort zone.

Go through mud, barbed wire and, occasionally, ‘Hell on Earth,’ as you run, climb and crawl your way to the finish line. There are five categories: Sprint Open (morning or afternoon), Age Group and Men/ Women Elite Sprint. For registration, starting at HK$760, and spectator passes at HK$50, visit www.spartanrace.hk.

HK HAPPENINGS

HONG KONG FILM AWARDS

Get your events listed @ www.lifeonlantau.com

Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui The Hong Kong Film Awards grants recognition for achievements in filmmaking, s u c h a s a c t i n g , d i re c t i n g and screenwriting. Charlene Choi and Zhang Jicong are p re s e n t i n g a w a rd s to t h e w i n n e rs i n t h i s ye a r ’s 1 9 categories. Sneak a peek of your favourite celebrities as they arrive on the red carpet.

For more information and to see the nominations, visit www.hkfaa.com.

April 15

KOOZA

Central Harbourfront Event Space, Central April 19 - June 3

www.emirates247.com

MEGA ICE HOCKEY 5’S Mega Ice, Kowloon Bay

Catch some action on ice at the 12-day Mega Ice Hockey 5’s. The tournament consists of a youth division, open to kids aged five to 16, and an adult division for players aged 17 and up. All games are open to the public and admission is free.

For more information, visit www.megaice.com.hk.

April 23 - May 5

www.megabox.com.hk

THE SCRIPT LIVE IN HONG KONG Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Kowloon Bay

www.pinterest.com

Kooza returns to the origins of Cirque du Soleil by combining acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. Exploring themes of fear, identity, recognition and power, join The Innocent, a melancholy loner, as he journeys to find his place in the world. For tickets, starting at HK$488, visit www.asiaboxoffice.com.

PEPPA PIG LIVE

Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, Kowloon Bay April 28-29

April 24

www.pinterest.com

Mega popular Irish three-piece, The Script returns to Hong Kong following the release of its latest album Freedom Child . Formed in 2007, the band boasts three multi-platinum albums and four platinum singles. The Script has won three Meteor Ireland Music Awards and two World Music Awards, and has received two Brit Award nominations. For tickets, starting at HK$580, visit www.hkticketing.com.

fungyung.com

Kids are invited to celebrate treasured memories with Peppa Pig and friends at the brand-new live musical show. Enjoy watching a special day planned by Mummy Pig, filled with new songs, games, surprises, jumps in muddy puddles and snorts of laughter. For tickets, starting at HK$280, visit www. hkticketing.com.

www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU 31

AWESOME BAMBOO SOCKS ANKLE

NO SHOW ATHLETIC 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 2018 target together: 100,000 pairs of socks will be donated to children in need.

Order online at

www.eurekasocks.com

LANTAU FACES

COMMUNITY SNAPS Tung Chung residents chartered a bus to Butterfly Beach, Tuen Mun to celebrate Holi Day on March 3 Find more familiar faces @ www.lifeonlantau.com

e ould lik If you w red o featu t o h p your to see email page, is h t n o m.hk dia.co e m y a a@b katrin

Photos courtesy of Sanjay Guha

www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU  33

LANTAU FACES

COMMUNITY SNAPS Were you one of the islanders at the Lantau International Beer Dash on March 17?

Find more familiar faces @ www.lifeonlantau.com

34  LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com

e ould lik If you w red o featu t o h p your to see email page, is h t n o m.hk dia.co e m y a a@b katrin

LANTAU FACES

Photos by Duey Tam

www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU  35

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LANTAU LIVING

COMING SOON THE BEST OF LANTAU 2018/19

ACT NOW AND

SAVE

20% up to

on advertising if you book and pay by 30th April 2018

Contact us NOW for fantastic early bird discounts and lock in your spot before it’s too late.

Call: 2987 0577

ADVERTISE HERE

LIFE ON LANTAU CLASSIFIEDS

Do you have a Will?

Have you appointed guardians for your children?

Contact us today for a free consultation www.phoenix-wills.com info@phoenix-wills.com 3100 0101

To advertise in CLASSIFIEDS email

info@baymedia.com.hk

or call 2987 0577

Deadline for June/ July issue CLASSIFIEDS May 15

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

TUNG CHUNG

LOCAL NUMBERS COMMUNITY SERVICES Tung Chung Man Tung Road Sports Centre Tung Chung Public Library Tung Chung Public Swimming Pool

2109 2421 2109 3011 2109 9107

COMPUTER REPAIRS Bobby Mirchandani

9425 3812

EDUCATION Christian & Missionary Alliance Church Education Centre Discovery Mind Play Centre & Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School Greenfield International Kindergarten Han Xuan Language Education Centre Salala Kids’ House Soundwaves English Education Centre Sun Island Education Foundation Sunshine House International Preschool The Story Studio Tung Chung Catholic School YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College

3141 7319 2987 8070 2915 0666 2162 5538 2666 5905 2611 9193 2164 7210 2420 1068 2109 3873 6341 3989 2121 0884 2988 8123

ELECTRONIC REPAIRS So Nice Technologies (Onkar Singh)

6206 3497

EMERGENCY – FIRE/POLICE/AMBULANCE – 999 Alcoholics Anonymous North Lantau Hospital Tung Chung Ambulance Depot Tung Chung Fire Station Tung Chung Police Station

9073 6922 3467 7000 2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1694

FOOD & RESTAURANTS A Tavola Bar & Grill Essence Restaurant - Novotel Citygate Curry Lounge Handi Indian Restaurant McDonald’s Delivery Melody Thai Moccato Coffee Shop Olea Restaurant - NovotelCitygate Pizza Hut Delivery Resto Restaurant Velocity Bar and Grill - Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott

2321 5500 3602 8808 2960 1977 2988 8674 2338 2338 2988 8129 3602 8838 3602 8818 2330 0000 2886 3156 3969 1888

HEALTH & WELLBEING Cambridge Weight Management Hairdresser - Ricky Max Beauty MTM Spa Om Spa Quan Spa Radha’s Place Rainbow Voice and Soundhealing Tung Chung Facial & Nails

9576 2147 9882 9741 2162 5752 2923 6060 2286 6266 3969 2188 5374 7133 5178 5658 9669 9433

HOME REPAIRS & DESIGN Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths O-Live Decor Shun Yu Engineering Tung Chung Handyman - Peter Towner Interior Design Wing Shing Interior Design

2109 2330 8105 2588 2988 1488 9161 0348 3113 4968 5403 0363

HOTELS Novotel Citygate Regal Airport Hotel Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel

3602 8888 2286 8888 3969 1888

KIDS 4 Dimensions+ (Dance, Gym, Drama, Art) Clement Art School Jumping Castles Little Whale Kidznjoy Little Stars Playgroup Sakura Kids

9446 6013 9021 1502 9662 1747 6310 7074 6273 7347 6479 0390 6674 6194

38 LIFE ON LANTAU October/ November 2017

www.lifeonlantau.com

MEDICAL Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre Maternal & Child Health Centre North Lantau Hospital Quality HealthCare Medical Quality HealthCare Physiotherapy Raffles Medical Raffles Medical Emergency Skyline Physiotherapy

2185 6550 2109 9396 2109 2288 3575 8370 3467 7000 2403 6623 2403 6328 2261 2626 2261 0999 2194 4038

PHOTOGRAPHY RedJacq Photography

9313 6887

REAL ESTATE HomeSolutions

3483 5003

REMOVALS & RELOCATIONS Akash Removals FTC Relocations ReloSmart SwiftRelo

2421 8088 2814 1658 2561 3030 2363 4008

RESIDENTIAL ESTATE CONTACTS Caribbean Coast Club House Caribbean Coast Management Office Coastal Skyline Club House Coastal Skyline Management Office Seaview Crescent Club House Seaview Crescent Management Office Tung Chung Crescent Club House Tung Chung Crescent Management Office

2109 9277 2109 9288 2179 6678 2179 6621 3473 8700 3473 8833 2403 6770 2109 1222

SPORT & RECREATION Aqua Gym Asia Pacific Soccer Schools Canterano Futbol Club Dance for Joy Edge ’n Pointe Dance Centre Epic Tung Chung ESF Sports HK Dragons Kinder Kicks Soccer KipMovin La Cantera Perun Fitness Pilates Plus Tennis lessons Tung Chung Basketball Ving Tsun YD Taekwondo Korea Zumba & Bollywood Dance

2914 0658 2385 9677 5611 2490 9264 8597 6688 2167 2786 9699 2711 1280 2987 4274 2385 9677 6180 3256 2557 8007 6443 6597 9838 3937 6025 7990 6355 7674 5264 3149 2337 9992 6497 8086

USEFUL NUMBERS Alcoholics Anonymous Arrow Accounting Services Carpet washing, repairs & sales Clarinet, saxophone, flute lessons Dyslexia/Dyscalculia - Patricia Hamlin Expat Living Hong Kong FTC Apparel Phoenix Wills

9073 6922 6201 9710 2623 0499 9413 0498 6775 9735 3480 7614 2428 2566 3100 0101

VETERINARY & PET SITTING SERVICES Bon’s Mobile Pet Grooming Royal Pets Ltd - Pet Sitting Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung Chung Vet Centre

9099 9959 6314 9887 2988 1534 2328 7282

ART & CULTURE Flanhardt Galerie und Atelier (FGUA)

2882 3390

EDUCATION Buddhist Fat Ho College Kind Hing Trinity International Kindergarten & Nursery Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Lao Shi Lantau Mandarin lessons Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mindfulness Matters Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten

2985 5365 2109 9886 2984 0302 2980 3676 5197 4647 3689 6709 9048 5425 2984 0006

FOOD, BEVERAGES & RESTAURANTS Bahçe Turkish Restaurant Bathers/ Beach House Cafe Isara Caffe Paradiso China Bear Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar

2984 0222 2504 4788 2470 1966 2984 0498 2984 9720 3484 3095

Kebab Korner Lantau Grocer Lantana Italian Bistro Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. Long Island Mavericks Mucho Gusto Natural Plus Robert’s Market Tai O Solo Café The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep @ High Tide The Water Buffalo Value Vigilantes

6429 3507 2702 0050 5465 5511 2984 8346 2320 2001 5662 8552 6422 5009 2984 2233 9193 2937 9153 7453 2980 2582 5991 6292 2980 2699 2109 3331 6132 9120

HEALTH & BEAUTY Cambridge Weight Management Dietitian - Patricia Castle Greenstyle Organic and Healthcare Kremer Method/ Bowen Therapy Pause by the Banyan - health ∙ wellness Spa Ambiance Spa Puretouch Thai Palin Thai Sa Baai

2525 7165 5690 0366 9802 0553 9827 9911 9708 0187 2984 2488 2984 0088 9062 0148 5228 6552

HOME REPAIRS & DESIGN New Look Design Unitek

9783 5840 9156 0360

HOTELS Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel

6810 0111 2985 8383

REAL ESTATE HomeSolutions Findley Leung

3483 5003 2984 8334

RETAIL INSIDE Quay House

2890 8606 2882 8710

SPORT & RECREATION Lantau Base Camp Long Coast Seasports Pause by the River - pilates ∙ yoga ∙ dance Treasure Island

5463 6060 2980 3222 9708 0187 2546 3543

TRANSPORT New Lantau Bus Company

2984 9848

USEFUL NUMBERS Alcoholics Anonymous Phoenix Wills

9073 6922 6108 8471

VETERINARY SERVICES SPCA Mui Wo

2984 0060

DISCOVERY BAY

SOUTH LANTAU

LOCAL NUMBERS COMMUNITY Club Siena DB Recreation Club DB Fire & Ambulance DB Marina Club DB Management

2987 7382 2987 7381 2987 7502 2987 9591 2238 3601

EDUCATION DBIS Kindergarten DBIS Primary School Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori Academy, North Plaza Eye Level Education Learning Centre Mandarin for Munchkins Mathnasium SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House International Preschool Zhi Zhi Chinese

2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8088 2987 8088 2914 2202 2987 1201 2812 9668 9366 0000 2480 3909 2628 3362 2987 8608 2987 8143 9648 2966

FOOD & RESTAURANTS 22˚ North Coyote Mexican Cantina Chef’s Choice Hemingway’s McSorley’s Ale House The Pier Bar Uncle Russ, North Plaza

2987 2298 2987 2848 2172 6111 2987 8855 2987 8280 2520 2166 2840 1188

HEALTH & BEAUTY Afflatus Hair Workshop Maximum Care M Spa Nailed It!

2987 0283 2987 2060 2987 0614 2987 2266

MEDICAL Bayside Dental Practice DB Medical Centre Health and Care Dental Clinic IMI (Integrated Medicine Institute) Island Health OT&P Healthcare Quality Health Physiotherapy

2987 0855 2987 5633 2666 6183 2537 1087 2987 7575 2468 3577 2473 6200

RETAIL Bookazine Little Whale P-Solution Wing On

2987 1373 5690 4960 2987 1777 2987 9268

SPORT & RECREATION Caissa Chess Club d. Be FIT Daruma Sports DB Pirates DMR School of Ballet HK Dragons Football Club Island Dance Kapuhala Train-in-Space KipMovin Harry Wright International Yoga Up

9681 2896 6974 7707 6244 6093 2517 8248 2987 4338 2987 4274 2987 1571 6101 8434 6180 3256 2575 6279 8197 5591

TRANSPORT Passenger Telephone Hotline

2987 0208

PROPERTY LISTINGS AND BOATS AquaBlu Marine Headland Homes HK Boats & Homes Okay.com Savills Hong Kong

6017 7802 2987 2088 6055 0146 2102 0888 2987 1919

USEFUL NUMBERS Alcoholics Anonymous Auberge Discovery Bay Hotel Island Veterinary Services

9073 6922 2295 8288 2987 9003

www.lifeonlantau.com

April / May 2018

LIFE ON LANTAU 39

PUZZLER

24

23

26 24

24

14

9

19

11

12

1

3

24

26

18

6

6

11

18

CAN YOU6 CRACK3 THE CODE? 12 15

15

12

6

12

5

14

23

12

24

15

19

15

14

9

12

26

24

24

19

19

26 24

1 9 19

24

4 11

12

26

9

12

1

6

23

20

1219 4

264

1

6

12

19

9

21

14

9

26

2 19

11

3 12 24

11

3

15

8

12

26

26 24

20

16

2126

24

2019

24

19

9 19 23

15

12

16

8

12

23

19

26

199

26

236

15

9

14

9

26

18

19 26

9

24

8

11

7

24

9

9

26

21 19

14

4

6

14

19

23

19

9

15

21

12

20 5

6

16 12 23

18

11

11 16

9 12 21

14

24 18

17

14

19

6

21

5

12 19 2

21 12

15

2

22

6

20

17 19 6

24

21 21

5 12

19

11

21

5

5

19

12 5 24

11

21

21

9 20

2

21 24 20 23 11 9

5

6

2

19

21

20 63

10

15

11

12

20 68

15

11 15

16

20

7

21

20

2

12

8

21

12

12

2311

26

21

11

8

19

21 26

12 6

2

16

21

17 2

9

21

21

21

12

9

20

23 9

524

1114 11

12 15

19

21

5

11

1223 11

9

11

21

5

8

5

5

5

21 8

23

21 3

24

6 4

1

5

10 15 24

16 6

4

23 5 21

49

5

5

26

19 25

25

17

24

6 21

21 19

21

2

25

21

24

23

2

6

9

5

23

6

6

162

19

26

2316

8

23

8

23

26

21 9

21

12

21

12

9

19

23

9 6

6

21

21

13

5 15

8 16

8 23

16

16 13 21

23

1

23 5

23

16 9

16 26

21 26 9 9

13

4

6

9

12

26

1

26

6

20

6 19

21 23

23

23

23

24

21

21 3

20

23

8

A B A CB D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

1 14

12

2

14

15

15

3

3 16

16

44

5

P

P

17

17

5

18

18

6 19

6

7 20

19

78 21

9

8

10

22

23

20

21

9

11

L 24

22

12 10

13

25

26

A

23

11

L

24

12

13

A 25

26

2

8

5

1

9

3

5

7

4

1

2

12

16

4 29

9

3

7

12

6

23

30

14

1

6

11

21

14

10

21

5

1

19

1

10

6

9

3

10

3

29

6

19 1517

2

6

23

10

1

8

1

17

1

14

1

9

1

4

12

24

12 16

11

17

1

18

1

7

16

22

30

3 11

1

3 9

11

1

17

212

15

6

21

15

13

12 1

6 7

21

9

15

5

9 2

9

21

9

9

21

1

16 Sudoku is an excellent brain game, improving concentration and overall brain power. Can 15 12 11 you fill this 9x9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3x3 section contain all 26 of the digits between 1 and 9?

21

23

5

SUDOKU BRAIN GAME

3

2

8

3

15

6 4

39 19

3

1

6

2

15

12

23

12

19 12

4

20

23

9

6

11 4

11

11

12

12 24 23

6

15

15

20

23

4

18

21

1

In this Code Cracker, letters have been replaced by numbers, and each number 19 6 23 same 8 letter throughout 18 12 the23grid. 15 22pre-6 represents the You’ve16been18given12a few determined letters, use these to decipher the code.

12

14

26

24

7

12

9

!

WWW.LIFEONLANTAU.COM/LIFE-ON-LANTAU-ARTICLES/PUZZLER-SOLUTIONS

14

FIND THE SOLUTIONS AT

12

GET THOSE SYNAPSES sizzling

1

11

4

3

17

8 16

4 9

1

16 10

1 1

KAKURO LOGIC PUZZLE A Kakuro puzzle consists of a blank grid with sumclues to help you fill in the missing numbers. Can you fill all the empty squares using the numbers 1 to 9, so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the clue on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top?

1

Two-year Lantau resident Trisha Hughes is an 1ardent puzzler. She is also a crime fiction writer, and the author of the best-selling memoir Daughters of Nazareth. Trisha’s V 2 V trilogy traces the British Monarchy from the Vikings through to Elizabeth The Virgin Queen and Queen Victoria, and back again. For more on Trisha, visit www.trishahughesauthor.com.

40 LIFE ON LANTAU April / May 2018

www.lifeonlantau.com