Liv Magazine March 2019

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MARCH 2019 | l i v - m a g a z i n e . co m LIV MAGAZINE

PLANT POWER Taking a bite out of Hong Kong’s vegan scene

WIN Hong Kong Sevens tickets, Peninsula luxury gift sets and wireless earbuds on page 19!

MARCH 05 Editor’s Letter

LIV | NEWS 06 Wishlist

Lovely things we want right now

08 It’s a Date

Events for your diary

10 Hot Right Now

New happenings on the wellness scene

12 Fresh Cuts

Dining news that’s good for you

14 Cheat Day

Because #YOLO

16 Reviews

Meal delivery service from The Raw Circus and yoga at Santi Space

LIV | STORIES 20 Venturing Into Veganism

How Hong Kong is embracing plantbased eating in its own unique way

28 Vegan Lifestyle Hacks Animal-free alternatives for everyday living

30 Charity Spotlight

PathFinders, helping pregnant FDWs and their children

LIV | MORE 34 Recipe

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Asian kale salad with marinated tofu

by HolisticLee Happy

36 Pamper

Our beauty picks for this month

38 Travel

Club Med Bintan Island, Indonesia

44 Macau

Dispatches from our sister SAR

50 Can’t Liv Without

Fivelements' Lahra Tatriele

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EDITOR’S LETTER

GREEN THUMBS UP

Veganism can get a bad rap sometimes, and it’s never really been clear to me why. We all know we should limit our eggs and dairy, and that plant-based food is better for our bodies. We know that massive factory farms have nasty environmental consequences, not to mention the gruesome way animals are treated inside them. In fact, in theory, I think a lot of people would agree that veganism is actually a pretty great idea. (Of course, in practice that doesn’t mean swearing off my milk chocolate is any easier, but one step at a time!)

We’re doing a deep dive on veganism this month! What makes Hong Kong’s vegan boom so different from cities like London or New York? We’ve got answers to that on p.20.

Pineapples and oranges and corn, oh my! It’s incredible what’s being used to produce plant-based alternatives in the vegan fashion scene, read all about it on p.28.

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention our favourite places to eat green, so make sure you check out p.12 for restaurant scene buzz and p.16 for our review of the raw, vegan meal delivery service from The Raw Circus.

We’ve also spoken with local zero-waste pioneer Hannah Chung on p.42 about how to offset your carbon footprint while travelling.

Trying an entirely vegan lifestyle on for size might not be for everyone, but it’s definitely getting easier to experiment with. So stop rolling your eyes and join the plant-based party once in a while if you’re not already - you might just find yourself loving it!

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS Noble guinea pig Zoe Belhomme turns down the heat as she test drives a raw meal home delivery service on p.16.

Can you embrace zerowaste while travelling?

Kate Springer tackles conscientious tourism on p.42.

Rachel Read serves the tea on her top beauty picks, including a teainfused skincare line, on p.36.

Stacey Marcelo is flying high at Club Med Bintan Island on p.38, as she tackles trapeze and everything else under the sun.

Macau expert Sally Victoria Benson explores Studio City’s all-electrical stunt show and the long-awaited arrival of lululemon on p.44.

ON THE COVER Model: Lisa Terauchi Photographer: Claudia Lee

CARLA THOMAS EDITOR

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Send invites and info to: Makerhive, 10/F, Cheung Hing Industrial Building, 12P Smithfield, Kennedy Town PUBLISHER SARAH FUNG SENIOR SALES MANAGER ANSHU RIJHWANI SALES MANAGER AILEEN CHAN EDITOR CARLA THOMAS WRITER ZOE BELHOMME SOCIAL MEDIA STACEY MARCELO ADMINISTRATOR JASMIN BLUNCK GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY TAN EDITORIAL ASSISTANT TANYA HODGSON CONTRIBUTORS KATE FARR, KATE SPRINGER, RACHEL READ, DEIRDRE GRIFFIN, SALLY VICTORIA BENSON, STACEY MARCELO, SARAH KWONG PRINTED BY GEAR PRINTING LIMITED, ROOM B, 3/F, DERRICK INDUSTRIAL BUILDING, 49-51 WONG CHUK HANG ROAD, ABERDEEN ‘‘Liv Magazine’’ Copyright 2019 Liv Media Limited. The content provided here is the property of Liv Media Limited and may not be reproduced in any part without the written permission of the Publisher. The information provided by Liv Media Limited’s contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or the company. The information provided by Liv Media Limited, or its staff, advertisers and contributors is given in good faith; readers should gather more information before making the decision to purchase any goods or services highlighted here. Liv Media Limited will not be held responsible for any action, omission or error resulting from actions taken on the basis of the information provided here. Please seek the approval of a doctor before following any health advice.

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Retail Therapy

WISHLIST

Here's what we're crushing on this month

WINTER KISS

Kiss flaky lips goodbye with a gorgeously creamy lip balm that uses hydrating superstars like shea butter and organic apricot kernel oil. $220 from Delarom. Available at K11 Beauty or online at thalgo.com.hk.

ORGANIC CHEM

Derived from organic plants harvested from southern Italian farmland, Frame’s skincare line might look like serious science, but it’s also vegan and cruelty-free. Bellissimo.

Individual products start at $810 from framecosmetics.com.hk.

WATCH YOURSELF

THE AI IN AIR

This intelligent air purifier system from Olfinity monitors and cleans the air in your home, while diffusing essential oils for an added aerial dose of aromatherapy. $15,000 from olfinity.com.

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Chic shades like seafoam-silver and merlot-gold make Garmin’s stylish wearables a must-have.

They also go beyond the usual fitness tracking to offer mental wellness monitoring tools like all-day stress tracking and a relaxation timer. $1,699 each. Available at Garmin brand shops in Tsim Sha Tsui or Causeway Bay.

Retail Therapy

IN LIVING CORAL

Stay on trend the entire year with K-beauty brand VDL’s pink palette inspired by Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Living Coral. $370 from VDL stores.

PUN TO BE HAD

Dim sum-body say yum cha? These punny Hong Kong-themed greeting cards from Cha Siu Papers are made with 100% recyclable materials and so cute you’ll want to eat them up. $40 each from chasiupapers.com.

PURPLE HAZE

This aubergine bra and leggings set from Pure Apparel’s new spring/summer collection has really put a spell on us. Excuse us while we kiss the sky...

Bra costs $440, leggings $620. Available at Pure Yoga locations and online at be-pure.com.

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Calendar

IT’S A DATE

MAR 8-10

SPIN IT TO WIN IT

Make the trek to Hong Kong’s impressive velodrome at the PRURide Six Day Series, the world’s biggest track cycling party, in Asia for its first time ever. This international cycling series serves up the thrill of racing with a party atmosphere, thanks to live DJ performances and low lighting that are more LKF than TKO. Catch the action up close inside the track, or settle for spectator stands that are still lively. Be sure to catch homegrown Olympian Sarah Lee Wai-sze compete against some of the world’s top riders while you enjoy the party.

Hong Kong Velodrome, Tseung Kwan O. Visit pruridesixday.hk.

MAR 20

FIT LIFE

Asia’s first health and fitness conference has finally arrived, and we are buzzing about it! The first FIT Summit will be hosted in Singapore, providing a platform for brands, companies, clubs and investors to meet and discuss emerging market trends, business challenges and opportunities. Not scheduled for a Singapore trip? Stay tuned...FIT Summit is set to hit Hong Kong shores later this year.

Hotel Jen Tanglin, Singapore, thefitsummit.com.

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Calendar

MAR 9-10

E-MAZING RACE

Electric racing cars are taking over the streets of Hong Kong yet again for the fifth instalment of the FIA Formula E-Prix Championship.

Formula E dispenses with the noise and emissions of Formula One vehicles for an eco-friendly but still competitive street race.

Grandstand tickets are available but if you want to watch the action on the big screen, tickets to the Allianz E-Village are just $50.

Central Harbourfront. Visit hkformulae.com for more info.

MAR 21-24

TASTE THE TOWN

If there’s anything we take anything seriously in Hong Kong, it’s our food. Taste of Hong Kong is back this month, giving all selfconfessed foodies a chance to sample gastronomic delights created by some of the city’s best chefs. Serving up small plates from their pop-up kitchens will be 12 local and international restaurants, including new kids on the block like The Flying Elk, John Anthony, Old Bailey and Blacksheep’s Artemis & Apollo.

Favourites HAKU and Zuma from last year will also be returning. Wet your whistle at the whisky and wine tastings, or bring something home from the Gourmet Market. Empty stomachs essential!

Central Harbourfront, 9 Lung Wo Rd., Central, tasteofhongkong.com.

MAR 16-17

MAR 2-9

Europe’s largest and oldest vegan trade fair, Veggieworld, is coming to Hong Kong for its first time, a must-do for those looking to reduce or eliminate animal products from their lifestyle.

Although it’s a trade show, the fair encourages the general public to attend, and will offer plant-based clothing, cosmetics and F&B brands otherwise unavailable in Hong Kong. For the greencurious, there are also talks and seminars from leaders on the global vegan scene.

The Good Life Boutique will host a week-long luxury shopping pop-up in Central. Expect to find unique items including photographic prints, natural stone jewellery and accessories, handmade cotton dhurries, rugs and homewares, aromatherapy eco soy wax candles, natural beauty products and women’s and children’s fashion.

GREEN SCENE

$100 for a one-day ticket, $180 for the whole weekend.

Saturday, 10-8PM, Sunday, 10-6PM. PMQ, Central, veggieworld.de/en/event/hongkong_en.

THE FINER THINGS

11 Mee Lun St., between Gough Street and Hollywood Road. Open 10am to 8pm every day.

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Cool Stuff

HOT RIGHT NOW News from the wellness scene

MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN

A mutual interest in sustainability and eco-fashion inspired the RLxANGIE collection, the latest collaboration between local fashion label Rising Lotus and Malaysian-born model Angie Ng. The monochrome collection is made from 88% recycled polyester, perfect for yoga, fitness classes or just rocking some athleisure at brunch. Pieces include a peekaboo bra, lightweight skort and an asymmetrical top that’s flattering on all body types.

Prices start at $380.

G/F, 75A Hollywood Rd., risinglotusclothing.com.

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Cool Stuff

HOME STRETCH

WeStretch in Central is the city’s first boutique studio dedicated to the art of stretching, with therapists trained to lengthen muscles in a controlled way.

Once relegated to the final few minutes of a workout, stretching has emerged as the latest trend in the US, UK and Australia. Proponents say they provide a deeper, more beneficial stretch, and regular visits will ease tightness, release tension and increase range of motion. Pop in at lunch for a quick 15-minute express relief session ($200) to stretch out a particular part of the body or go the whole hog with the studio’s signature 50-minute full body session ($900).

Wong Chung Ming Commercial House, 16, 13/F Wyndham St., 2328-7000, we-stretch.com.

ARTY PARTY

Unless you’re living under a rock, you’ve surely heard the buzz around Hong Kong’s Art Week, taking place at the end of this month. Throughout the city, art aficionados will gather to celebrate all artforms over a glass of bubbly - from photography and painting to large scale-installations, and everything in between.

While many small events are taking place throughout the week, the main attractions are Art Basel (March 29-30), which attracts top art critics and investors, and Art Central (March 27-31), which focuses on upand-coming artistic talent.

Central Harbourfront. Learn more: artbasel.com and artcentralhongkong.com.

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS

Sick of hitting the bar before you fly? The Sanctuary by Pure is a 700 square foot facility for yoga and meditation located in Cathay’s Business Class lounge at Hong Kong International Airpor. Guests can select from a range of virtual classes that promote improved circulation, enhanced mobility and relaxation ahead of a long flight.

The meditation zone offers cushioned pods equipped with noise-cancelling headphones and iPads for guided audio meditation sessions. The Sanctuary is open to travellers with Diamond, Gold and Silver Marco Polo Club memberships, as well as those travelling in business or first class on Cathay Pacific or Cathay Dragon flights.

Hong Kong International Airport. Visit cathaypacific. com or pure-yoga.com for more info.

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Dining

FRESH CUTS Dining news that’s good for you

VIVA LA VEDA As more Hong Kongers embrace meat-free cuisine, boutique hotel chain Ovolo Central is going all in with its flagship vegetarian restaurant, VEDA. Crafted by celebrity chef Hetty McKinnon, the menu is ambitious and eye-catching, designed to reel in meat-eaters as well as as loyal vegans and vegetarians, who will undoubtedly flock here in droves. Baked aloo gobi sets a new standard for what to expect from cauliflower, while the fig cashew cheesecake is so smooth it’s hard to believe it’s vegan. A great place to spend Green Monday...or any other day that ends in “y”.

2 Arbuthnot Rd., Central, 3755-3067, ovolohotels.com.hk/ovolocentral/veda/.

THE HEAT IS ON Small but fierce, River is a Sichuanese hole-in-thewall in Sai Ying Pun that’s caught our attention with its spicy veggie and vegan-friendly menu.

Traditional Sichuan favourites including fiery green beans with tingly peppercorns, savoury mapo tofu, and sweet and spicy fried aubergines, are all made fresh to order and, on request, without the meatbased flourishes like pork mince. Located next to the escalator, this hidden gem is always reassuringly busy with locals, a sign of good things inside.

62 Centre St., Sai Ying Pun, 2520-3222.

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Dining

GOING UP Zero-Waste Feminine Products Did you know 90% of feminine hygiene products use plastic that ends up in landfills? Consider a menstrual cup like Lunette, available at local ecofriendly retailer Anna Jade.

Intermittent Fasting

VEGAN ON THE GO It’s official: plant-based food is taking over, and the proof is in the chiller case at your local Marks & Spencer. M&S has rolled out Plant Kitchen, a collection of 20 different meat and dairy-free products that cater to vegans, vegetarians or anyone looking to experiment with a little less animal product in their life.

The new line uses plant proteins and dairy alternatives to offer ready-to-eat meals like Spaghetti Bolognese or Cashew Mac. There’s also tasty snacks like the mayo-less coleslaw and potato salad, and mock meat creations, like No Meat Meatballs or No Pork Sausoyges (no points from us for that last mouthful of a name, though!)

Proven method for healthier eating, or just skipping breakfast? Whichever side you’re on, this trend is gaining serious traction.

Available at Marks and Spencer locations, marksandspencer.com/hk.

NOC NOC Local roastery NOC Coffee Co. isn’t just serious about their coffee - they also have plenty of vegan-friendly breakfast and brunch items to choose from. Recharge with an acai bowl that’s topped generously with fresh fruits and nuts, or opt for the chia seed pancake, only available at weekends.

Naturally, caffeine is the star here. Order up a silky latte, swapping dairy for soy or oat milk if that’s what you’re into.

Six locations around Hong Kong Island, including 321 Des Voeux Rd. W, Sai Ying Pun, 3611-5300, noccoffeeco.com.

Animals In Makeup With so many clean, vegan alternatives out there, it’s easier than ever to upgrade your makeup bag with eco-friendly, ethical alternatives. See p.29 for where to start!

The South Stand So much fun, but we just can’t handle the hedonism anymore. We’ll have our Pimms in the North Stand this year.

GOING DOWN 13

Dining

CHEAT DAY

Because life’s too short to always order the salad

SOUL FOOD Is there anything better than pasta? Lasagna, fettuccine alfredo, linguine carbonara... Italian is the ultimate comfort food. For anyone ditching dairy, however, the vegan options can be limiting. Mirror & Vegan Concept is a meat- and dairy-free kitchen that’s simply nailing plantbased cuisine with its decadent Italian dishes. Take the Pasta Di Semola with black truffle and cheddar cheese sauce (pictured), a heavenly bowl of juicy noodles swimming in rich cream - and it’s made entirely without dairy. The decadent truffle sauce is made from soy cream and “cheese” from Scottish brand Sheese, which uses coconut oil and beans in its products.

Top it all off with some sauteed mushrooms and microgreens, and we’re totally sold on this charming little vegan eatery.

9/F, 118 Queen’s Road Central, 2868-0810.

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Reviews

TEST-DRIVE Liv checks out the newest workouts and wellness trends

WORKOUT

Yoga at Santi Space

Vegan Meal Delivery from The Raw Circus

The Buzz: Hidden away on Lockhart Road, Santi Space

The Buzz: It’s already hard enough to get to the gym, let

is a friendly boutique yoga studio with a relaxed, earthy vibe. Small but serene, this peaceful oasis in the middle of bustling Wan Chai offers several classes, from standards like flow and yin to more prop-heavy practices like aerial and alignment. We opted for a Basics class.

alone prep three meals a day. Hong Kong’s first raw and vegan meal delivery service, The Raw Circus, is a healthy solution to this classic health hurdle. We tested their three-day Raw Gourmet meal plan.

The Class: Even if you’ve practiced for a while, it’s easy to

forget the simple stuff. This was a chance to slow down from the more challenging vinyasa-based practices, and focus on fundamentals like alignment or breathing. During our onehour class, instructor Joanne starts with some easy neck, wrist and arm stretches before carefully taking us through a few flow sequences to get warm. We’re encouraged to hold poses for longer, considering how they’re working for our bodies. After some slow but deliberate sequences that are challenging in their simplicity, the class concludes with ten minutes of deeper stretches, including pigeon, and a gorgeously long five-minute savasana.

The Food: Each day’s delivery arrives between 7 and 9am and the Gourmet Plan includes three square meals, a snack, a dessert and two cold- pressed juices. The food is 100% plant-based, gluten- and dairy-free. Since it’s raw, it’s packed with nutrients normally lost to the cooking process. Breakfasts are sweet, usually granolas, chias or raw pastry treats, like scones or pancakes. Lunch and dinner take savoury directions - we had sprouted chickpea falafel, bloomed wild rice with lemon orange marinade, and mushroom and pepper rawsagna.

Desserts include cakes, pies and parfaits. Dishes repeat every four weeks and are always filling and flavourful.

The Verdict: Who knew raw food could be so creative!

so everyone there gets a healthy amount of attention and support in their practice. Joanne was patient and helped us get deeper into postures without ever pushing us. Best of all, we never feel rushed, adding to the overall zen-like ambiance of this plant-filled space. Vinyasas in front of the studio’s vertical garden definitely spark joy! Whoever said good things come in small packages must have been referring to this little gem.

We looked forward to every meal, although we slightly missed warm food after three days. Still, it’s a small price for getting that much nutritional bang for our buck.

Best of all, we felt less sluggish and bloated. We had reservations about excess packaging, a problem with many meal delivery services. The Raw Circus uses plantbased, compostable containers, with a zero-waste option that delivers in reusable containers. Eat green, live clean - what’s not to love?

The Cost: Trial classes are $100; $200 for drop-ins. Class

The Cost: Meal Plans are between $375 and $520 per

packages available.

day. Delivery fees are $40 for Hong Kong Island and $55 for Kowloon.

The Verdict: Santi Space holds up to six students per class,

5A, Lockhart Centre, 301-307 Lockhart Rd., Wan Chai, 96028864, santispacehk.com.

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DIET

therawcircus.com

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ALL ABOUT YOU CENTRE

Healing Your Inner Child

You may not believe in past lives, but everyone can agree that what happens to you in this life has significant impact on who you are today.

We are compositions of all our past experiences, both good and bad.

That means any triggers and stressors we face today are the result of an unhealed part of our past. Inner-child work simply means accepting that younger version of yourself is still stuck with pain from the past, unable to move past it. This work is incredibly healing and one of the most powerful gifts you can give to yourself.

Healing your Inner-child workshop @ All About You: Saturday, March 16th 10am to 6pm, HKD1,500. www.allaboutyoucentre.com | 29920828

EMMANUEL F. LE SALON

Not A Trend, But A Lifestyle

As an eco-luxury salon, we are totally against animal testing and all acts of cruelty involved in the production of hair dye, styling products and cosmetics. We’ve done detailed research on the best and most effective ingredients to use on the market, and chose an organic colour that is the first ever vegan-friendly, ammonia, paraben and resorcinolfree, salon professional permanent hair colour. We optimise the use of natural and certified organic ingredients and minimise the use of harsh chemical additives. The permanent colours we use are gluten-free, highperforming and contain the lowest possible levels of PPD pigment.

This March, we invite you to our Sheung Wan salon to enjoy a cruelty-free vegan hair revamp with our certified organic colour for a three to eight-week root touch-up, plus a tailor-made standard hair treatment for only $1500 (normally costs $2140.)

SHAN STUDIOS

Yoga in Wong Chuk Hang

Shan Studios is a yoga and meditation studio in the Wong Chuk Hang area that provides a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of the office environment.

They offer yoga and meditation classes for all levels, as well as workshops to deepen your practice. Shan Studios arranges classes to fit your busy schedule, including early morning classes before work, and 30-minute classes during lunch. When classes aren’t in session, members are welcome to use their self-practice room as a quiet space for meditation. Please check out their website for class descriptions and schedule.

Email: info@shanstudios.com.

Website: shanstudios.com

EE F! FR UF ST

GIVEAWAYS visit liv-magazine.com/giveaways for a chance to win!

WIN: a pair of tickets to the Cathay Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens!

Yes - you read it right! We have a pair of tickets up for grabs to Hong Kong’s biggest and most exciting sports event: the 2019 Cathay Pacific/ HSBC Hong Kong Sevens! Catch an entire weekend of adrenalinepumping rugby and cheer on team HK as they battle it out against 11 qualifying teams at Hong Kong Stadium. The weekend passes are valued at $2,000 each, but as any rugby fan knows, these hot tickets are basically priceless.

WIN: a Harmony Gift Set from The Peninsula Boutique You know the wellness revolution is here to stay when one of Hong Kong’s most venerable hotels, The Peninsula, launches its own line of healthy treats. The Bamboo Blessings collection is made up of healthy and delicious snacks that are raw, vegan, gluten-free and made without refined sugars. We have ten Harmony gift sets up for grabs, each worth $495. Inside you’ll find all-natural dehydrated fruit chips, a tin of antioxidant-rich pomegranate fruit tea, and a selection of chocolate pebbles.

WIN: a set of wireless Tolv earbuds from Sudio Keep your hands free as you run, work or play, with the new Tolv earbuds from Sudio. With excellent sound quality and a sleek charging case, these earbuds offer seven hours of battery life, or six days on standby. We have three sets to give away, each valued at $999.

Enter at liv-magazine.com/giveaways before March 28 to win!

Cover Story

WHEN

TRADITION MEETS

TREND Veganism is growing at a fast rate, but can it ever truly become part of Hong Kong culture?

Sarah Kwong finds out.

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Cover Story

F

rom fast food chains in Italy to schools in America, cities everywhere are trying on veganism for size. Hong Kong counts among them, but it’s not as simple as just swapping fish balls for fennel. Food is synonymous with culture, history, socioeconomic status, and it’s been a hard sell for many here used to a meatforward diet.

Times are changing though. The divide between the city’s meat-loving traditionalists and its plant-based proponents is growing narrower every day, and there’s a number of reasons why many Hongkongers are now waking up to the lure of the leaf.

WHAT HONG KONG EATS “In Hong Kong, veganism isn’t just about food - it’s tied up in identity politics. Hongkongers love their cuisine, and there are still many traditional attitudes towards food and the culture surrounding it, so new diets are considered to be a very particular lifestyle choice,” says Paul O’Connor, Research Assistant Professor in Sociology at Lingnan University.

Indeed, for much of Hong Kong’s food culture, meat and dairy is at the heart of it, from egg tarts to dim sum, cha siu (barbecue pork) to condensed milk tea – the latter of which we consume a whopping 900 million cups of every year. A 2018 study by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre found that the average Hongkonger also devours over 100kg of meat annually, while another survey showed that residents consume over double the recommended limits of meat, fish and eggs as set by the Department of Health.

O’Connor, who has studied diets in Hong Kong, says, “There are people who embrace new diets, but veganism is still seen as unusual among locals.”

“A new diet sends status signals that carry considerable weight and show us where we rank. Veganism signals a class position, education, and a degree of cosmopolitanism. As it has a bigger following in Western countries, a vegan is signalling that they have Western values, to a degree.”

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Cover Story

GRADUALLY GOING GREENER But things are changing. According to Green Monday, the social vegan movement founded by Hongkonger David Yeung, a December 2018 survey showed that 24 percent of the city’s citizens are “flexitarian,” choosing to eat vegetarian or vegan at least some of the time. Another 2016 survey found 22 percent of Hongkongers are adopting the practice of Green Mondays, or going meatless on Mondays. It all adds up to an undeniable pattern of people becoming more open-minded about their diet and conscious consumerism.

Going beyond the consumer are businesses getting in on the action, too.

Major American plant-based players like Beyond Meat and Impossible chose Hong Kong as their launchpad into the Asian market, to no small success. Meanwhile, Green Monday’s Yeung recently launched his own mock meat product, Omnipork, that’s been widely adopted into the city’s more

traditional Asian eating establishments.

“We’re based in Asia and it has the largest population in the world, so we channelled our understanding of Asian meat consumption into a product that could be a game-changer,” says Yeung, also the owner of local vegan eatery Kind Kitchen. “Pork is the most consumed meat in Asia, so we found a way to cater to those who eat it, while reducing Asia’s dependence on pork itself.”

Broadening the appeal of plant-based proteins to regular meateaters is crucial to changing minds, according to Yeung, who says curiosity is what often attracts diners new to the vegan diet.

“Kind Kitchen has become a regular go-to restaurant for vegans, but also a showcase for food innovations that attract and often convert non-vegans. Many of our customers are impressed by the new-age plant-based offerings.”

A HISTORY OF VEGANISM

Lisa Terauchi with Confusion team

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Plant-based alternatives are nothing new in Hong Kong, thanks to a sizeable Buddhist community that has existed here for centuries.

But today’s vegan menu is more extensive than the fare of China’s Buddhist roots, resulting in an increasing interest among non-vegans to try vegan food. Restaurants across the city are starting to offer innovative alternatives that mimic non-vegan ingredients, broadening the scope of vegan cuisine to incorporate ramen, fish dishes, pizza, scrambled eggs, cheesecakes - the list goes on.

Lisa Terauchi, chef and co-owner at Confusion Plant Based Kitchen in Sheung Wan, believes the expanding scope of vegan options is winning over critics. “The people dining at Confusion are predominantly omnivores who, when asked if they are vegan, tend to answer, ‘No, but I’m working towards eating mostly plant-based.’”

“What I hope they’re able to gain from eating the food we create is to be inspired. I want them to know what’s possible, that it’s not all salads and fries, it’s not all beans and broccoli. It’s so much more.”

Zoe Tang, barista at vegan cafe LN Fortunate Coffee in Sai Ying Pun, also believes that culinary ingenuity is what attracts many non-vegans. “Many of our local customers are keen to try vegan food because they’re curious. They come for a cup of coffee and a piece of cake, and are amazed by what they’re given since it’s hard to imagine a cake without eggs.”

Cover Story

A HEALTHY SOLUTION?

Green Monday’s David Yeung

The vegan diet has also garnered a reputation as being healthy, which could help it catch on.

The World Cancer Research Fund suggests eating less than 750g of fresh meat per week because of its possible links to colorectal cancer - the most common cancer in Hong Kong. The world-famous China Study, a comprehensive look at Chinese nutrition, found a strong correlation between plant-based foods and low cases of cancers, heart disease and diabetes. And it’s not just meat - in a 2018 study of Hong Kong bakery goods, like sesame and cocktail buns, most items were shown to have high trans-fat and sodium content.

Over the years, Hongkongers have also had to think about food origins. “Safety in food has become a concern,” O’Connor says. “We’ve seen a number of shocking food scandals, such as Sanlu milk and tainted meat. The industrialisation of food production has become increasingly problematic.” Yeung echoes this, citing the outbreak of African Swine Fever as one of the reasons that “change is no longer optional, but a must.”

LN Fortunate Cafe 23

Cover Story

EASY STEPS INTO

VEGANISM Thanks to the wide range of vegan-based products and services now available in Hong Kong, there are many easy ways to start dabbling in veganism without going cold turkey. Here are a few ways to get started…

 Try out local Buddhist restaurants

There are a ton of Buddhist-friendly haunts in the city, from the famous Chi Lin Vegetarian to hidden spots such as Green Veggie in Sheung Wan.

ONE STEP AT A TIME Still, change can’t be forced. Yeung believes that for Hong Kong to fully embrace veganism, we should go easy on the labels. “It shouldn't be a binary choice. Once the door is open and people experience the ‘green’ side of the culinary universe, they might adopt a plant-based routine at their own pace. If we make it an all-or-nothing situation, they might decide to pass due to their own inertia or an unaccommodating family environment.”

Local food tour operator and Hong Kong culture and culinary expert Daisann McLane agrees. “I’d say, everything in moderation. The concept of eliminating certain types of food entirely and permanently from the diet doesn’t fit with our culinary philosophy,” she says.

There’s also the issue of cost. In one of the world’s most expensive cities to live in, a vegan diet can be expensive to maintain. “Food price is important for the average person, and diets like halal and veganism are challenging and often expensive. Convenience and cost are big factors for many Hongkongers,” O’Connor says. Unlike in major cities such as London or New York, the cost of eating local food in Hong Kong – often meat-based - is so cheap, it’s hard to beat.

“For veganism and local culture to fit together, we need to reach communities in all districts and provide low-cost cooking classes and options,” says Shara Ng, Chairman of the Hong Kong Vegan Association.

As with many new relationships, the one between our fair city and the vegan diet is complicated, and is unlikely to find a one-size-fits all solution anytime soon. The merging of local culture and tradition with the emergence of insight into health, ethics, and environmental impact, was never going to be seamless. But it’s obvious that veganism is at the forefront of people’s minds here more than ever before. Regardless of how it looks, the vegan boom has hit Hong Kong.  24



Switch to soy or nut-based milks Local soy milk brands can be found in most supermarkets, and some also stock affordable nut milks. International oat milk brand, Oatly, is another great, accessible alternative.



Try out Green Monday A wide range of restaurants, from Pizza Express to Café De Coral, are in on the initiative and offer meatless options on Mondays.

 Sign up for veggie delivery boxes

Companies such as Magic Season Organics (who also have a zero-waste policy) and Vegetable Marketing Association (backed by the government) offer affordable vegetable deliveries across the city.

 Check out bulk health stores

From LiveZero to the new Slowood in Kennedy Town, bulk food stores offer a wide range of plant-based options, all priced by weight.

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When nothing but chocolate will do, these healthy snacks are just the trick. Dutch company Kallo is widely known for its organic, guilt-free alternatives to munch on, like these Belgian milk chocolate rice cakes. At only 19 calories per cake, they’re perfect for grownups, too!

Can’t stop your kids from playing with their food?

Get in on the action, with these fun whole grain biscuits from Organix Goodies. The alphabet biscuits and gingerbread men make snacktime an entertaining treat for the picky eater in your family.

Award-winning British brand Childs Farm uses only naturally derived ingredients and essential oils for a skincare line that’s mild and perfect for babies. We love the strawberry and organic mint 3-in-1 shampoo, conditioner and body wash that smells good enough to eat!

We offer free delivery service for over HKD 500 to our customers, (except outlying islands).

Baby Basics website - the online store for new parents and mums-to-be. Our online store allows you to shop, browse and create your own wishlists from a range of great quality products as well.

Baby Basics Physical Store - an accessible location in busy Central but it's another world once you step in.

Unit 701-703, 7/F, Lansing House, 41-47 Queen’s Road Central, 2311-1048, babybasicshk.com.

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Thought we were just a mag?

Did you know we also run regular fitness events and workshops, exclusively for our readers?

On a balmy evening just before Chinese New Year, over 30 guests joined our second ever Wellness Evening with Cordis Hotel in Mong Kok. Guests were invited to make the most of Cordis’ wellness facilities on the 41st floor before joining a Zumba class by XP Fitness in the hotel’s gorgeous Star Room with panoramic views of the city below. A 45-minute high-intensity class set to Latin music got everyone shaking what their mamas gave them, working up a solid sweat in the process. We capped it all off with some stretches, followed by socialising over a selection of healthy drinks and nibbles.

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A big thank you to all our event partners who made sure our guests went home with arms full of healthy goodies at the end of the night. Food items included vegan muffins from Food Folk and kale chips from Raw Circus, washed down with some refreshing Jax Coco Water and energising ginger concentrate from Tizzy Shots.

Also included were samples from SpiceBox Organics, Teapigs and a set of oils from No.2 Organics.

Couldn’t make this event? There’s always the next one! We’re already planning many more events throughout the year so make sure you check out our social media accounts and weekly newsletter for your invitation. cordishotels.com

Vegan

LIVING

La Vida Vegan Veganism isn’t limited to our fridges and pantries. There’s a whole world of products - from accessories to underwear - that are made without the cruelty and high carbon footprint of animal-derived materials. And how they’re made is nothing short of fascinating. By Carla Thomas

DON’T HAVE A COW It can be hard to ditch the leather in your life, but there are some pretty compelling reasons to do so. According to PETA, “Buying leather directly contributes to factory farms and slaughterhouses because the skin is the most economically important coproduct of the meat industry.”

Consider instead cruelty-free leather substitutes, which are getting better and better, thanks to innovations in fashion technology.

And the raw materials are downright appetitizing.

Pineapple is one of the hottest leather alternatives right now; watch out for Pinatex, a 28

pineapple-derived vegan leather that’s been used by major brands like Hugo Boss.

Corn is also having a moment (how many times have you said that in your life?) French footwear brand Veja recently released a vegan version of their iconic sneaker that’s made from corn waste, and biodegradable to boot.

Other leather alternatives include coffee, mushrooms, apple skins - a veritable smorgasbord of options for your next biker or bomber!

Vegan

IN VEGAN VERITAS Isn’t all wine vegan, we hear you ask? It’s made from grapes, after all. We’re sorry to break it to you, but there’s often an array of animal-derived products used in the production of wine. Winemakers often use animal byproducts in the process of “fining,” when cloudy wines are clarified to produce a clear and bright wine fit for bottling and selling.

These fining agents can be pretty bizarre for the uninitiated. Fish bladders, bone marrow, egg whites, or gelatin made from animal parts - the backstory to that bottle of Bordeaux on your table could give a vegan nightmares.

But the good news is that the days of filtering with fishbones could be behind us. The use of clay-based agents like bentonite or activated charcoal makes vegan wine-making an easy task, and there are several brands out there for oenophiles who are willing to read labels.

GOT SILK?

WHERE TO BUY Local brands offering vegan alternatives

VELOVE This proudly made-in-Hong Kong brand has a Pinatex collection of faux-leather accessories derived from pineapple.

Shop clutches, wallets, totes and bracelets online or at its workshop in Wong Chuk Hang. www.velovehk.com.

WINE N’ THINGS Specialising in New World wines, Wine n’ Things offers more than 50 vegan wines, ranging in price from $90 to $770. winenthingshk.com.

DEEP LAKE This Hong Kong-based bedding brand uses a vegan silk derived from bamboo fibres.

Light and breathable, the fabric is ideally suited to sticky Hong Kong summer nights. www.deeplake.net.

We love a nice silky chemise as much as the next person, but the raw materials our knickers are made from could do with a change-up.

Many lingerie brands use silk for its soft-to-thetouch texture and clingy appearance, but it doesn’t come cruelty-free. Mass-produced silk is made using domesticated silkworms that are farmed and then boiled alive in their cocoons.

According to PETA, approximately 3,000 silkworms are killed to make one pound of silk.

Don’t tear up your teddies just yet though.

Orange peels are now being used as a sustainable vegan alternative to silk, through the extraction of their cellulose. And milkweed seed or silk-cotton tree are both excellent plant-based alternatives.

When in doubt about whether your silk is plantbased, just skip it altogether - like Rihanna did when she launched her vegan lingerie line, Savage X Fenty Valentine Collection, last month. The cruelty-free collection uses animalfree materials like lace and mesh.  29

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT:

PathFinders

Community

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Community

Q Who does Pathfinders aim to help and why is it necessary in Hong Kong?

PathFinders helps pregnant, migrant women in distress and their Hong Kong-born children.

Despite legal protections, too many of these women are unlawfully fired after pregnancy.

Hong Kong needs PathFinders because the babies, children and women we help are either not supported, or are inadequately supported,

by Hong Kong’s existing structures. We’ve helped over 6,000 people, including over 2,600 babies and children, since we were founded in 2008.

Q Explain what risks migrant women might experience during their pregnancy that others wouldn’t?

Once their employment is terminated, these pregnant women become homeless. Within two weeks they lose access to all public welfare support and their rights to access the public healthcare system for vital prenatal screenings.

They are often unable to return home because of finances, because they are too pregnant to fly, or because their Hong Kong-born baby is undocumented.

A

ccess to basic necessities like healthcare are a given for many in Hong Kong, but that isn’t the case for everyone. Local charity PathFinders works with pregnant foreign domestic workers (FDWs), helping some of the city’s most vulnerable residents in their hour of need. By Tanya Hodgson.

Q What kinds of issues do the children of migrant women face after childbirth in Hong Kong?

The children born to these women are typically undocumented, stateless and go unrecognised and unsupported by the state. They lack access to critical and essential services including a legal identity, immunisations and medical care, shelter and education. These babies and their mothers easily fall prey to the most dangerous and frightening sectors of our society and can be exploited to devastating effect.

Q Why is improving maternal health services for FDWs in Hong Kong an important goal to realize?

Based on the HKSAR government’s statistics, we calculate that at least one in every seven women of reproductive age in Hong Kong is employed as a domestic worker. That proportion grows to around 10% when we look at FDWs as a proportion of working women. Hong Kong currently employs 385,000 FDWs, mainly female, and that number is forecast to rise to 600,000 to help us care for our rapidly aging population.

31

Community

Q You just had your tenth anniversary last year - what changes or challenges do you foresee in the next ten years?

With the huge influx of migrant workers, the single biggest challenge is that Hong Kong still has no policy setting out how a pregnancy of a migrant worker should be managed. The consequences of migration and importing hundreds of thousands of women of childbearing age can and should be provided for by the administration.

PathFinders’ other challenge is that we will always need funding. We receive no government funding or subsidies for the vital healthcare, humanitarian services and advice we provide. Overseas funders cannot understand why a city with a budget surplus could have such a social problem. We have to rely on the generosity of remarkable individuals, foundations and the corporate community for funding, as well as at staff level.

Q How do you define positive or negative outcomes with your client group?

When our client is able to make a wellinformed decision in the best interests of herself and her child, that’s a positive outcome.

Negative outcomes are numerous. When our client goes underground and we cannot find her to help her. When she is prosecuted as an immigration overstayer when in fact she is a victim of a crime. When she suffers domestic and/or sexual violence. When she is the victim of trafficking. When she loses the baby. When the baby is born on the streets. When the woman is so overwhelmed that she abandons her baby; the list goes on and on...

Q How can people support PathFinders?

There are many different ways people can support PathFinders! You can donate money - your donation will be used to fund children and mothers’ most critical and urgent needs. You can donate your time - we welcome volunteers to help us support our beneficiaries by keeping our programmes running, for example, facilitating a workshop or coming to our centre in Tai Kok Tsui to help sort through 32

Photographer

clothes. You can also donate supplies - we collect and distribute preloved and new baby supplies to migrant mothers and children. We also need professional hands-on business support including accountants, strategists, communications and technology people, governance experts and lawyers. And for our clients we need doctors, lawyers, midwives and social workers. If you work for a corporate, consider partnering with us to create a community volunteer experience, which enables us to expose beneficiaries to new and positive experiences.

Community

consulates, information booths at schools, NGOs and churches, and a community carnival - to educate the general public including 385,000 FDWs in Hong Kong. Our aim is to ensure each and every one of them is aware of the maternity protections available to migrant workers. Since our founding in 2008, we have reached out to 55,000 individuals throughout 236 activities. Our goal is to continue to educate the general public and we will focus on raising awareness and prevention of unplanned pregnancies.

For more information on PathFinders and their outreach initiatives, visit pathfinders.org.hk.

Q What events or community outreach are you planning for 2019?

In 2019, we will organise 50 outreach initiatives and events - including community education workshops at

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Food

HEALTHY RECIPE

Asian Kale Salad with Marinated Tofu From Leeron Zion, health and wellness coach and author of HolisticLee Happy Between the veggies, quinoa, tofu and dressing, this savoury salad provides a nourishing meal filled with fiber, protein and healthy fats. Serves four.

INGREDIENTS • kale salad • 25 stalks kale • 6 radicchio leaves • 1/4 carrot • 1/3 cup cooked quinoa

SALAD DRESSING • 6 tbsp almond butter (or tahini paste) • 1 tbsp tamarind paste • 1 tsp sesame oil

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy

• 1 tbsp Bragg liquid aminos or tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) • 1 tbsp maple syrup • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ginger powder) • 1/4 cup water

TOFU TIME

1h15m to prep 15 min to assemble

• 1 pack organic extra firm tofu (350g) • 4 tbsp Bragg liquid aminos or tamari • 3 tbsp rice vinegar • 1 tsp lime • 1 tbsp sesame oil • 1 tbsp maple syrup • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ginger powder)

TIP: Cut tofu into cubes before you marinade for extra flavour absorption

34

• 1 garlic clove • 1/2 tsp pepper • 2 tsp Sriracha (optional)

DIRECTIONS: 1. Put your tofu on a plate wrapped in paper towels. Place a heavy book on top and let sit for 15 minutes to squeeze out the water.

2. Add all marinade ingredients into an 8x8 glass dish and mix.

Add your tofu to the dish, allowing it to marinade for at least an hour for full flavour.

3. To cook, heat a pan on med-high heat and add just enough coconut oil to cover your pan.

4. Once hot, add your tofu. Cook the first side for about two minutes or until golden brown. Gently flip so that all sides of the tofu are evenly cooked and coloured. Transfer to a plate and let cool.

5. For the dressing, add all ingredients to a bowl and whisk together. Set dressing aside.

6. For the salad, remove stems from the kale stalks. Place leaves into a bowl and rip them apart into small pieces. Add a few drops of lemon juice and “massage” your kale until it is slightly wilted so it’s not so tough to digest.

7. Thinly slice the radicchio and julienne the carrot. Add radicchio, carrot and cooked quinoa to the bowl.

8. Add some dressing (not all) and mix well.

9. Finally, add tofu and gently mix so as not to break the tofu.

10. Place into one large bowl or four small bowls to serve. Enjoy!

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Pamper

READY SET GLOW Rachel Read

WHAT’S THE TEA? Afternoon tea, bubble tea, yum cha… it’s safe to say that we’re a city of tea lovers here in Hong Kong! Enter tea-infused skincare line Lu Ming Tang, which is based around the restorative power of tea.

It features classic tea leaves like pu’er black and longjing green chosen specifically for their beneficial properties. Add some extra spoonfuls of ingredients like oxygenating chlorophyll and superantioxidant EGCG tea polyphenol for a skincare range designed to detoxify and regenerate complexions. The range includes cleansers, serums, moisturisers and masks, all of which are made without parabens, sulphates, phthalates and other harmful chemicals. Get your fill from Lu Ming Tang’s dedicated Hong Kong e-store, with shipping free on orders over $500.

Products cost $95-560. Available at lumingtang.myshopify.com.

36

Pamper

SO FAR, SO GOOD Local skincare brand So Good Botanicals has just launched their new food-based Bite Me collection – and their powerhouse products are proof that superfoods aren’t just for your salad. The new range includes three face masks: Lola, a pick-me-up for dull and tired skin that features raw honey, organic virgin argan oil and organic maca root powder; Tomato Face, designed to cleanse and hydrate thanks to potent ingredients like organic tomato and meadowfoam seed oil; and Green McQueen, packed with natural antioxidants and vitamins from raw spirulina and avocado oil to brighten and smooth complexions.

There’s also a delicious body polish with organic cocoa butter, cacao nibs and organic virgin coconut oil to nourish and soften your skin. So Good products are cruelty-free and contain zero synthetics, preservatives, fillers or harsh chemicals like parabens, sulphates, silicones and petrochemicals, with free shipping in Hong Kong on all orders.

Bite Me Collection items cost $280-380 at sogoodbotanicals.com.

THE ONLY WAY IS CUP If you’re lacking a bit of a get-up-and-go recently, I-Spa at InterContinental Hong Kong’s new Body Cupping Therapy might be just what you need. This 75-minute detoxifying treatment is designed to aid your body’s flow of qi, improving the lymphatic system and sluggish circulation by using a triple whammy of different massage techniques – deep tissue, Swedish and lymphatic drainage massage – coupled with homeopathic remedies and essential oils. If you want to get the full works, I-Spa also offers 15-minute cupping add-on sessions specifically for your face and eyes, which promise to lift your contours and reduce eye bags. Getting your qi in order was never more relaxing!

The Body Cupping Therapy treatment costs $1,430 for 75 minutes; 15-minute add-ons cost $150 each. InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2721-1211, hongkong-ic.intercontinental.com.

Rachel Read is a freelance writer, editor and co-founder of writing agency Editors’ Ink (www.editorsinkhk.com); she also has her own lifestyle blog, Through The Looking Glass (www.rachttlg.com) where she reviews beauty, food and whatever else she can think of.

Follow her on Instagram too @rachttlg.

37

Travel

JOIN THE

CLUB

Need a short-haul post-holiday retreat?

Stacey Marcelo heads south to Club Med Bintan Island, Indonesia, to check out their Body & Soul programme for all things wellness.

A

quick 45-minute ferry ride from Singapore, Indonesia’s Bintan Island is surrounded by raw natural beauty and sparkling turquoise water.

Popular with Singaporeans as a weekend getaway, the island and its array of luxury resorts is an ideal location for anyone looking to unplug, unwind and recharge. It’s an easy escape, and well worth tacking on as a side trip on your next visit to the Lion City.

As I step out onto the ferry pier I’m collected by a friendly driver, and a short 15-minute drive later, I’m checking into Club Med’s Bintan Island resort.

Club Med is one of the world’s most popular

38

all-inclusive resort brands, with meals, activities and entertainment all free of charge once you check in.

Recently it has started dipping its toe into wellness offerings, and the purpose of this trip is to check out their Body & Soul programme, a three-week holistic wellness experience running until March 15 that allows guests to partake in a wide gamut of wellnessbased activities and services at no extra cost. With packages starting from three days, anyone can do a mini-reset, tailoring their experience to their own interests by picking and choosing from the classes on offer.

Travel

DIVING IN HEADFIRST

I start this journey with an open mind, seeking new experiences and to conquer old fears. I jump right in with aerial yoga. Most of us in class are newbies to aerial yoga but we have nothing to fear, as experienced instructor Dawn guides us through each move with the utmost care. Before we know it, we’re toying with inversions and other moves that stretch our bodies and create space internally.

Other classes I try on for size include paddleboard yoga and Beach Bod, a 30-minute HIIT and circuit training class on the beach. More

off the beaten path are Beast Mov, a training program that relies on body weight to mimic the movement of animals, and Tribal Rhythm, an energizing and releasing aerobic workout that uses drumsticks to pound out catharses on a fit ball.

I balance it all out with some more low-key classes, including one that blends yoga, tai chi and Pilates, into one beautiful experience that’s centering and memorable.

39

Travel

GETTING OFF MY FEET

After completing four to five classes a day, I’m ready to treat myself to a few pampering treatments at the resort’s spa and I opt for their signature Asmara Traditional Massage and body scrub to soothe my aching muscles. The spa is located on the water’s edge, set against a breathtaking canvas of lush greenery.

After all those workouts, I’m hitting peak relaxation mode.

My spa journey starts with a relaxing foot-washing ritual using essential oils mixed with Epsom salts, followed by a 30-minute body scrub that leaves my skin feeling baby soft and rejuvenated.

Next up is the one-hour Asmara Traditional Massage, which is designed to improve energy and blood circulation.

My therapist’s technique, coupled with the sound of the gentle waves lapping against the shore, is nothing short of heaven.

This deeply therapeutic massage leaves my mind, body and spirit in a state of utter bliss.

40

Travel

WELLNESS 101

What really makes this experience unique to me are the wide array of wellness classes. After some helpful recommendations from staff, I experiment with sound therapy (like a sound bath, but with Tibetan bowls, chimes and crystals), healthy vegetarian cooking classes, and aromatherapy workshops.

A top roster of talented instructors and practitioners has been recruited internationally, from countries like Australia, Singapore and Indonesia. It all ends up with me being spoilt for choice, and I wish I had longer to try out all the different, good-for-the-soul activities.

THE BEST BIT

My favourite part of the entire trip is also the scariest, one I never thought I’d have the courage to do. Remember those old fears I mentioned conquering? I challenge myself in a way I haven’t done in years by conquering the resort’s trapeze, catapulting myself through the air while trying to forget the very real limits of gravity. It’s equal parts terrifying and exhilarating, and I can’t recommend it enough.

HOW TO ATTEND Guests who book from now until March 15 can participate in all Body & Soul activities and workshops at no additional cost (excluding golf and spa treatments). A four-day, three-night package to Club Med Bintan starts from $4,482, inclusive of accommodation, meals, activities and free-flow drinks (excludes cost of flights).

Visit clubmed.com.hk/l/body-and-soul-2019 or call 3111-9388 for more information on the Body & Soul programme.

41

Travel

TRAVEL WELL with Kate Springer

S

adly for those of us with itchy feet, travel is among the most environmentally destructive hobbies. Tourism accounts for 8 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, according to a 2018 report by Nature Climate Change, and it’s only expected to get worse as travelling becomes more affordable. So should we all just swear off it? We caught up with local zero-waste pioneer and Instagrammer Hannah Chung to hear her thoughts on how to minimise your footprint as an ecoconscious world explorer.

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Q Tell us a bit about your lifestyle and the rise of zero-waste.

Hannah Chung: I've been doing the zero-waste lifestyle for over two years now. I have really seen a huge shift during that time. When I first started, people were talking about it a little bit, but now “zero waste” is in the headlines every day.

Q Is there a conflict between an eco-friendly lifestyle and travel?

HC: Of course, travel adds to carbon emissions. But I don’t think it’s realistic to expect people to stop travelling. I see travel as a great way to connect with other communities; it’s something that we should all be grateful for. The more you travel, the

more you understand that the world is so small and we're all the same.

Q What have you noticed in terms of waste while travelling?

HC: For a lot of people, trash is really out of sight, out of mind. You don’t really think about where it ends up.

So observing waste in person, piled up on a beach in Bali, is a big factor in education and awareness. When it’s directly affecting you, that’s when you realise the depth of the problem.

Q How do you keep up your ecofriendly lifestyle on the road?

HC: It’s a real commitment, I have to say. It's a lot harder to manage waste when you travel! There are just a lot of limitations. For instance, I love to

Travel

where I can volunteer for a day. The first step is to understand the place you’re visiting. The second step is to contribute. And I think there’s a whole new generation of travellers who think this way.

Q What are some little ways people can contribute?

HC: Bring a bag with you on hikes, so you can pick up trash as you see it. It's a little thing that makes a difference. Last time I was in Kota Kinabalu on a kayaking trip and it turned into a river cleanup. The trash was that intense!

Q Any forecasts for the future of travel?

HC: I think the term “luxury” these days has really shifted. It's not just about five-star hotels and expensive handbags. It’s more about health, wellness, local engagement and eco-tourism. We’re going to see more of that in the future, as an increasing number of people want to be conscious travellers and engage culturally with the places they visit.

ABOUT HANNAH CHUNG: eat street food but I have to refuse the single-use items. To get around that, I ask vendors to serve food directly into my reusable container.

Q What about when you fly?

HC: Flying for me is challenging. I tend to pack a reusable lunch box, cutlery and water flask. That's my travelling kit. Before the flight, I go to an airport lounge and fill up my lunchbox so that I can avoid the single-use plastics that inevitably accompany the inflight meal.

Q Any other packing tips?

HC: I don't travel with liquids anymore. Instead, I pack a lot of bars - shampoo, soap, conditioner, and toothy tabs that foam up when you chew on them, so you can brush your teeth. Little things like that have made packing easier!

Hannah is the Hong Kong Lead of Revolv, a network of reusable takeaway containers with a deposit system on a citywide scale. Follow her zero-waste journey on Instagram: @thezerowastechallenge

Q What about the kind of activities you choose?

HC: Personally, I book trips that are eco-focused or community-oriented.

Perhaps it’s a local tour or a charity

Kate Springer is an Asia travel expert who contributes to Conde Nast Traveler, Vogue, CNN, BBC Travel, Forbes Travel Guide, Fodor’s, Vice, and more. Follow her travels on Instagram @katespringer. Send travel news to kate@kate-springer.com

43

Macau

MACAU

News and deals from our sister SAR

ELECTRIC AVENUE With House of Dancing Water on hiatus until April 24, there’s a new show in town, and it’s positively electrifying. Elekron is the world’s first all-electric, indoor theatrical stunt show, delivering thrills while spreading the gospel of clean energy. The 75-minute spectacle makes use of more than 70 electric vehicles developed by Tesla, including sports cars, quads, FMX bikes - even a biplane! Packed with deathdefying stunts from pyrotechnics to wing-walking, many of the stunts are within super close range of the audience and you can really feel the (green) energy exuding from the stage. If you’re bringing kids, pack some earplugs - some parts can be quite loud. Runs until March 31.

Tickets range from MOP280-980. Studio City Event Center, Level 1, Studio City, Estro do Istmo, Cotai, +853-8865-3333, studiocity-macau.com.

SIMPLY RAWSOME The first raw food detox in Macau is taking place at the Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel this month! Hosted by chef Andreea, the founder of Macau-based raw food restaurant Rawlicious, this three-day event is perfect for anyone interested in discovering the benefits of raw vegan cuisine. Participants will be encouraged to explore their relationship with food through demonstrations, workshops and lectures. Three gourmet raw meals will be served each day, which will leave you feeling nourished, energised and inspired to explore raw cuisine at home.

The retreat costs MOP4,500, with a maximum of 20 participants. March 15-17, Executive Suite, Sheraton Grand Macao, S/N, Estrada do Istmo, Macau. Details: facebook.com/rawliciouskitchen.

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS Lululemon has finally opened its first ever store in Macau and we’re beyond excited! Located in the Grand Canal Street Shoppes at The Venetian, you’ll not only find stylish and functional activewear, but regular fitness events and workshops, as well as tips on where to get healthy in Macau. Lululemon is all about building a community of like-minded fitness fanatics, so we can’t wait to see what fun events they have planned this year. lululemon Shop 980, Grand Canal St., Level 3, Shoppes at Venetian Macao, S/N, Estrada da Baía de N. Senhora da Esperança, Macau.

Sally Victoria Benson grew up in Macau and is the publisher of macaulifestyle.com, the city's leading lifestyle platform. She's passionate about sharing Macau's hidden healthy side and everything happening in the city.

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Family

FIT FAM

with Kate Farr

KEEP IT SIMPLE If you’ve grown weary of emptying out your wallet over at the Big Giraffe, then check out Simply Toys, a new kids’ concept store in Central. The bright and welcoming space stocks a curated range of toys and party supplies not widely seen around town, including Spanish wooden toys by Apli Kids, STEM kits by Australia’s The Purple Cow, and washable nail polish by French brand Snails. You’ll also find household names such as Playmobil and PlanToys amongst the indie brands, making this a one-stop shop for gifts and pocket money splurges alike.

1/F On Lan Centre, 11-15 On Lan St., Central, simplytoys.com.hk.

PUMP IT UP Of all the baby gadgets to win over my new mum friends, none has the devoted following of the Haakaa Breast Pump. Made from super soft food-grade silicone, it uses suction in place of manual or electric power for a chilled-out, low-effort pumping experience – just attach and relax. The lack of batteries and wires means no more dreaded milking machine sound, making it great for pumping on the go. It’s also a handy solution for storing the milk produced while you feed your baby on the other side.

Costs: $230. Available from petittippi.com.

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Family

GOOD READS Charity book-drive Books For Love returns for its ninth consecutive year, promoting green and affordable ways to nurture your little bookworms. From now until March 31, drop off your pre-loved books at 46 designated drop-off points around the city.

All donations will be sold for just $10 each in a four-day sale held between April 25-28 at Taikoo Place, with proceeds going to The Boys’ and Girls’ Club Association of Hong Kong and the Agency for Volunteer Service. Cleaning out your bookshelf feels doubly nice when it’s for a good cause, and come April, you can restock with bedtime stories that truly spark joy.

Full list of drop-off points and event programme available at swireproperties.com/en/sustainable-development/ people/community-ambassador-programmes. /books-for-love.aspx.

Kate Farr is the co-founder of writing and editing agency Editors’ Ink (editorsinkhk.com). She also blogs about Hong Kong family life at Accidental Tai-Tai (accidentaltaitai.com). Send your family health news to kate@editorsinkhk.com

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Day time/Evening Appointments Call us 2523 8979 http://www.resourcecounselling.org 23/F, Li Dong Building, 9 Li Yuen Street East, Central, Hong Kong Serving the Community for 40 years A Member Agency of The Community Chest

“The Oldest Swinger in Town,” DJ Fred Fung has been providing quality music entertainment in Hong Kong since the 1970s. From Motown to rock n’ roll, right up to the latest hits, his chart-toppers through the ages will delight everyone. Whether you want background music for a cocktail reception or to fill up a dance floor, DJ Fred will get the party started.

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CAN’T LIV WITHOUT

LAHRA TATRIELE Founder, Fivelements

Top tip for busy Hong Kongers to stay healthy: Hike the hills of Hong Kong every week or at least once a month. “Bathing in nature” is so healing - make it a hobby to check out the latest art and food scenes for new inspiration and community connection.

One thing I always have in my gym bag: I always have a photo of my guru.

Where I work out: I love the hills of Hong Kong - I live in Sai Kung, which is full of trails. I’m also a recent member of Fitness First.

Where I go for a healthy lunch: I like to eat at home when I’m in Hong Kong, and at Fivelements Sakti Dining Room when I’m in Bali.

What I'm watching on TV: TV? Who watches TV anymore!

My favourite app: Spotify – my husband and I are hooked on all sorts of playlists for the brain, deep sleep, gong baths, alpha waves, etc.

Vibrational medicine really works, and it’s nice for couples to sync up to.

My favourite workout song: Om Namo Narayani – by Edo & Jo, my sacred sound healers and angels!

Last plane trip I took, and why: I’m on it now – I’m attending design and curator meetings in Bali. We’re expanding our wellness retreat with more rooms and a culinary training kitchen. Plus, I’m looking to source some unique handmade fabrics made from Balinese women in East Bali.

Number-one item on my bucket list: I’ve always dreamed of living on the Amalfi Coast in Italy with my family.

My guilty pleasure: I go for Twizzlers – always strawberry – because it reminds me of my childhood with my mum and my love of the cinema.

What I always have in my fridge: I need my green juice fixings: leafy greens and green apples. Gotta keep that alkaline balance!

My workout of choice: Meditation, meditation, meditation!!

What I'm reading right now: “Peace: For Ourselves, Our Families, Our Communities & Our World,” by Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji.

I was at my least healthy when: As an infant, before I was adopted. I nearly died from poor health conditions before my angel American parents got me at 3.5 months. Since then, I’ve grown to 170cm, alive and vital and have lived in Tokyo, Paris, NY, San Francisco, Seattle, Shanghai, Singapore, Bali and Hong Kong, twice.

I am one lucky soul!

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