Expat Parent Magazine March 2015

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Hong Kong Edition www.expat-parent.com

March 2015

Bringing up boys

Nature vs nurture

Best in town

Rugby Sevens Guide

Hong Kong foods to queue for

Costume party Fancy dress and where to get it

Location vacations

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Contents What’s on

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4 Editor’s Letter Let’s hear it for the boys.

6 Calendar Happening in March.

12 Zeitgeist A parents’ guide to the Hong Kong Sevens.

14 News Need to know.

18 Must haves Fancy dress parade.

Family

20 Meet the parents Raising boys.

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22 Feature Nature vs nurture: why boys behave like boys.

Education

26 Open day Inside the American International School.

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32 Principal’s office Quizzing AIS’ Head of School Cameron Fox.

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Cover design by: Kelvin Lau

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Contents Activities

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36 After school Language classes for kids.

40 Me and my hobby One of youth rugby’s best and fairest.

Food

42 In season Why the queue?

44 Table for four Hotpots and fondues to share.

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Adventures

48 Big day out Mong Kok’s market trail.

52 Travel Flights, camera, action. Holidays in film locations.

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Resources

56 Money & Me With movie producer Bey Logan.

58 Marketplace Your guide to shops and services.

64 The bald truths of fatherhood Simon Parry misses phone calls.

Spotted Expat Parent spotted at Sai Kung’s Colour Brown Cafe .

Have you seen the magazine around town?

Share your photos with us on social media: #expatparenthk @ExpatParentHK

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Editor’s letter Editorial

Sales & Marketing

editorial@fastmedia.com.hk

ads@fastmedia.com.hk

Editor Adele Brunner

Head of Sales & Marketing Karman So

Senior Consultant Editor Jane Steer

Business Development Manager Tristan Watkins

Managing Editor Hannah Grogan

Marketing & Comm. Manager Sharon Wong

Editorial Assistant Cherrie Yu

Sales Manager Oliver Simons

Staff Writer Callum Wiggins

Sales & Marketing Executive John Lee Sales & Marketing Executive Sara Tomovic

Design design@fastmedia.com.hk Art Director Kelvin Lau Graphic Design Setareh Parvin

Accounts Manager Connie Lam connie@fastmedia.com.hk

Publisher Graphic Design Evy Cheung

Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk

Contributors Simon Parry Carolynne Dear Annie Wong Evie Burrows Taylor

Published by Fast Media Ltd LG1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queens Road Central, Hong Kong

Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772

Printer Apex Print, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong

www.fastmedia .com . h k Expat Parent is published by Fast Media Limited. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Expat Parent cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Expatparenthk

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H

K Expat TV has been a source of endless entertainment in friends’ houses but I’m not pushing my family’s drive to subscribe because it comes with a sports package. This means weekends will be devoted to Match of the Day, endless replays, pre- and post-match commentaries, golden goals and the like. No Premier League, Serie A, Bundesliga or Primera Liga?

No problem. There’s bound to be a rugby match, cricket test or something else vaguely connected to sport being aired, which my entire family will be more than happy to watch.

There’s always a ball being kicked, thrown or bounced around our living room and going out without one strikes abject horror in my two boys’ sport-obsessed hearts. It’s not unusual for me to practise a scrum before breakfast and absolutely anything can be turned into a competition. Not long ago, my sons thought the epitome of fun was to be timed running round a field. Welcome to the wonderful world of boys, to whom we dedicate this issue.

For anyone without boys, living with them might seem noisy, messy, smelly and rather chaotic. And it is. But it is also hugely entertaining, funny, irreverent, energetic and – with pre-teen boys anyway – uncomplicated. They may hit and jump on each other for no apparent reason, but when it comes to friends, the more the merrier. They take seconds to get dressed – whatever’s on the top of the pile, right? And they are brutally honest. My eldest son once told me I looked like a teenager in a hoodie, jeans and Converse, and my love for him knew no bounds until seconds later he added, “but not the face”.

For this issue, expert on boys Dr Ian Lillico, who has three sons of his own, writes about the influences of nature, nurture and peer pressure on boys’ behaviour and we hear from a mother of four sons about her experiences raising an all-male family.

If ever there was a boy-centric month in Hong Kong, it is rugbymad March. In Zeitgeist, we have compiled a family guide to the city’s favourite party, while Must Have features the best places to get costumes to wear on the big weekend. Come on, Hong Kong!

And let’s hear it for the boys!

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What’s on?

MAR 1 Sai Kung Sunday Market The monthly indoor farmers’ and craft market that champions all things local. 11am-5pm.

Hong Kong Academy, Wai Man Road, Sai Kung, www.saikungmarkets.com.

MAR 1 Southside Market Long Lunch Unlimited food, drink and entertainment from noon to 5pm. Tickets $550 from www.ticketflap.com; under-eights free. The Butchers Club Deli Rooftop, 16/F, 18 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, 2884 0768.

MAR 5-15 Pride and Prejudice MAR 27-29 Hong Kong Rugby Sevens Three days of singing, dodgy dancing, fancy dress and, oh yes, world-class rugby. Hong Kong Stadium, So Kon Po, www.hksevens.com.

UNTIL MAR 2 Paper Cinema’s Odyssey

UNTIL MAR 29 Hong Kong Arts Festival

Charming retelling of Homer’s epic using paper cutouts and live music. HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $80-$300 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

The city’s annual cultural bonanza, with worldclass performers from Asia and beyond. For details, visit www.hk.artsfestival.org.

UNTIL MAR 8 Restaurant Week Some of the finest food in Hong Kong at discount prices. Book at www.restaurantweek.hk.

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The Gate Theatre presents the Bennet sisters’ hunt for husbands. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $180-$500 from www.hk.artsfestival.org.

MAR 6-15 CATS Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s feline masterpiece comes to The Venetian Macao. Tickets $280-$680 from www.cotaiticketing.com, 6333 6660.

MAR 7 Practical Parenting Workshop Parenting author Ann Law has tips for communicating with kids, computer use and modifying behaviour. 10.30am-noon.

23/F, The Pemberton, 22-26 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan. Tickets $180 from www.parentingteenstips.com, 6893 7736, tinst.co@gmail.com.

MAR 7 CWS City Challenge

MAR 10 Ed Sheeran Live in Hong Kong

Adults and children can join this creative charity race through Wan Chai in aid of the Child Welfare Scheme. 2pm, Hong Kong Park. Details at www.cwshk.org, 2526 8810.

Sing. AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $680 at www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

MAR 8 Outward Bound Adventure Race Teams of four take part in a 13km-19km race across some lumpy bits of Hong Kong Island. 7am-4pm. Register at www.outwardbound.org.hk/ar.

MAR 7-8, 14-15, 22 Feel Good Film Festival Pull up a deck chair for outdoor screenings (in date order) of Notting Hill, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Wayne’s World, Frozen and Pretty Woman. 8pm. Rooftop, The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay. Tickets $160, including one beer, cider or cocktail, from www.hushup.hk.

MAR 14-15 Twinkle Dance Showcase The dance school’s little performers take the stage. 3pm. Jockey Club Auditorium, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom. Tickets $200-$250 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

MAR 7-20 Science Alive Find out why chemistry matters and how to make your own bath bomb, courtesy of the British Council. Free. Hong Kong Science Museum, 2 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2732 3232, www.britishcouncil.hk.

MAR 8 Discovery Bay Sunday Market Shop till you drop for original handmade crafts, creative ideas, vintage clothes and organic goods. Free entry. 11am-6pm, Discovery Bay Plaza, 3651 2345, www.ddeck.com.hk.

MAR 9-20 International Young Readers’ Festival Annual literary festival with workshops and talks by leading local and international children’s authors. Details at www.youngreadersfestival.org.hk.

MAR 15 Mother’s Day (UK) We love you, mums!

(Moms, international Mother’s Day is May 10.)

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MAR 15-17 Art Basel Hong Kong The giant international art fair returns. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. Tickets $150-$850 from www.artbasel.com.

MAR 18 One Direction On The Road Again Shriek! The world’s biggest boy band is in town. AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $998-$3,488 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

MAR 27 CNCF Ladies’ Long Lunch Food, drink, fun and games with handsome rugby players in aid of the Christina Noble Children’s Foundation. Hong Kong Jockey Club, Happy Valley, www.cncf.org.hk, 2832 2186.

MAR 27 Jason Mraz and Raining Jane An acoustic night. AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $388-$888 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

MAR 21 Pitbull Live in Hong Kong MAR 17 St Patrick’s Day Wear green.

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Woof. AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau. Tickets $880$1,080 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

MAR 28 Earth Hour

MAR 31-APR 12 Cavalia

Lights out from 8.30pm-9.30pm.

A modern circus on horseback from the people behind Cirque de Soleil. Big Top, Central Harbourfront. Tickets $245-$1,195 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

MAR 28-APR 19 Ocean Art Walk Weekend art exhibition in support of the world’s oceans by Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation, www.hkyaf.com. Free. Stanley Plaza, Stanley, 2214 0177.

MAR 29 Walk for Sight Join the sponsored walk through Tai Tam Country Park in aid of Orbis. Choose the 6km family walk, 10km or 14km routes, followed by performances, games and lunch at Hong Kong International School, Tai Tam. Register by March 4 at hkg.orbis.org.

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Book now APR 2-5 Smurfs Save Spring

APR 2-5 Sesame Street Live

MAY 1-2 Katy Perry Prismatic World Tour

Elmo, Big Bird and friends live. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $150-$450 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Hear her roar. Cotai Arena, The Venetian, Macau. Tickets $380-$1,680 from www.cotaiticketing.com.

The Smurfs on stage. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Smurfy seats $688 (including gifts), other seats $250-$588 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

APR 20 Charli XCX Boom clap! Music Zone, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $490 from www.ticketflap.com.

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MAY 15-JUN 7 The Sound of Music A few of your favourite things, direct from the West End. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $395-$995, family packages available, at www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

New French Club in Term 2 Learn French the FUN and FRIENDLY way!

Held at the Woodland Montessori Academy.

Key features: • Carefully structured and progressive language programme • Primary emphasis on FUN! Children learn through: fast-paced games, interactive activities, stories, rhymes, music and movement, role play etc.

• Introduction to France and French culture • Small classes Venez apprendre le français tout en s’amusant.

Nous offrons un environnement idéal pour découvrir cette merveilleuse langue à travers l’art, la peinture, la cuisine, les jeux et les histoires.

Le French Club permet aux enfants de s’enrichir d’une nouvelle culture et de se familiariser avec les chansons françaises traditionnelles.

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zeitgeist

Your Rugby Sevens Guide How to make the most of Hong Kong’s favourite annual sporting event.

Dos and Don’ts

Don’t forget cash, or prepare to queue for the HSBC ATM in the East Stand, near the entrance.

Do cheer for Hong Kong, but don’t boo the Aussies – it’s a Sevens tradition, but they really don’t like it.

Do buy Sevens merchandise at the start of the weekend – certain sizes and styles often run out.

Don’t wear a gorilla suit (too hot), but do go in fancy dress. Regulars recommend something cool, comfortable and original.

Do get there early if you want seats in the lower East and West stands.

Don’t wear your best clothes. It gets messy.

Do write your mobile phone number on your little ones’ arms. The Sevens is family friendly and wandering offspring won’t come a cropper, but the stands can look very similar.

Do wear a sunhat, but not too big or the people behind you will complain.

Don’t sit in the South Stand if you plan on staying sober.

Don’t take drinks, they will be confiscated at the gate (baby bottles exempted), although you can take a picnic.

Do have a hearty breakfast. The stadium food isn’t gourmet, but Starbucks and Pacific Coffee concessions offer a decent coffee.

Do wear comfortable shoes – after a long weekend the walk to the MTR is a killer in high heels.

Don’t streak. You may be quick (and buff), but police have cracked down in recent years and penalties are severe. An indecent exposure conviction carries a fine of $1,000 and up to six months’ imprisonment.

Do learn the words to Sweet Caroline. It’s the Sevens anthem.

Do start a Mexican Wave.

Do have a great time.

Do get your face painted and post a message on the Diamond screen.

Do take a rain jacket or umbrella, last year’s downpour caught many unprepared.

Do take suncream. On the other hand, the Sevens weekend is usually a scorcher.

Do take a pen for autographs. Most teams are happy to sign Sevens memorabilia at the front of the stands after matches.

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Don’t stand up in the aisles during a match – SIDDOWN! Do dance to the Village People, the teams march past, the ads…

Do be polite to the Carlsberg girls – it’s a tough job.

Don’t ignore the mini-rugby games. At 7am, what else do you have to do?

zeitgeist

MAR 26 Youth Sevens

Rugby Week Planner Nine days of top-class rugby action.

No tickets? No problem

Cheer on the future sevens stars. 9am-5pm, King’s Park, Kowloon, www.hkrugby.com.

MAR 21-22 Beach 5s Family-friendly beach sports. Free. 9am7.30pm, Repulse Bay, www.hkbeach5s.com.

MAR 26-27 Women’s Sevens

MAR 25 Kowloon RugbyFest

Twelve women’s teams compete.

8.30am-5.30pm, King’s Park, Kowloon, www.hkrugby.com.

Social tournament with 24 teams. King’s Park, Kowloon, www.rugbyfest.org.

MAR 27-29 Hong Kong Rugby Sevens

MAR 25-26 HKFC 10s

As well as the international tournament, don’t miss the mini-rugby showcases (Friday, 12.15pm, U7-U10; Saturday, 7am, U8-U11; Sunday, 7am, U11-U12). Hong Kong Stadium, So Kon Po, www.hksevens.com.

The world’s best 10s competition. 10.15am9pm, Hong Kong Football Club, Happy Valley, www.hongkongtens.com.

Where to sit in the Hong Kong Stadium Cover

Sun

Alcohol allowed

Age limit

West Stand, upper

Yes

am

No

None

West Stand, lower

Yes

am

Yes

None

East Stand, upper

Yes

pm

No

None

East Stand, lower

Yes

pm

Yes

None

North Stand

No

All day

Yes

None

South Stand

No

All day

Yes

Over-18s

A whopping 16,000 people failed to secure tickets in this year’s public draw, but there are ways to enjoy the Sevens outside the stadium.

The Sevens Village. Situated opposite Hong Kong Stadium, so close to the action you can hear the cheering, the temporary Sevens Village has a good atmosphere, a giant screen to watch the game, as well as bars and food stalls. Free entry. Access to the Champagne Tent after-party starts at $300.

Indian Recreation Club, 63 Caroline Hill Road, So Kon Po, www.ironmongerevents.com.

Watch on the grass. The Cyberport Arcade will be showing all the action in a live broadcast on the big outdoor TV on the lawn.

Snacks and drinks available. From 11am. The Arcade, Cyberport, Pok Fu Lam, 3166 3111, www.cyberport.hk.

Phone and tablet viewers. This year’s tournament will not be available on freeto-air television as Now TV has bought the rights and will be showing the action on its dedicated sports channels. However, you can download the free apps, Now Hong Kong and Now Sports Prime, and watch for free on your Android phone or tablet.

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news

Harbour School launches floating classroom

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All aboard! In a quest to develop its marine-science curriculum, Kennedy Town-based The Harbour School has launched a new “classroom at sea” aboard its 40-foot sailing boat Black Dolphin.

Once aboard, students will learn about the ocean, participate in research and access necessary resources to study marine life and other topics. The vessel will also be available for use by other schools and youth groups in Hong Kong.

Harbour School principal, Dr Jadis Burton, says, “Sailing develops character values, such as perseverance, problem-solving, creativity and teamwork. And the boat allows for the incorporation of content all across the curriculum, but especially in the study of marine science and biology.”

23 Belcher's Street, Kennedy Town Centre Shopping Centre, 2816 5222, www.thsdock.net.

news

Eat tea, help sick kids Kids go free to a fun afternoon tea party and fundraiser for the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation. To be held at Bebegarten on March 22, the Hope Shines Through Tea Party will feature a mini hair salon, temporary tattoo station, photo booth, face painters as well as teatime treats such as cupcakes, finger sandwiches and, no doubt, endless pots of tea for mums.

Adult tickets are $500 each in aid of the foundation, which provides medical treatment to underprivileged children in Hong Kong and throughout Asia. March 22, 3pm-5pm.

Bebegarten, 3/F, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang. For details and tickets, visit www.hkahf.org.hk.

Quidditch in Aberdeen Pop-up children’s clothes shop Local children’s clothing designer Petite C is running a pop-up shop at PMQ until March 18, selling clothes and accessories for newborns to age five. Summer and winter collections will be available, made in natural fabrics for comfort. Look for the buy-one-get-one-free offer on winter garments. Ten per cent of all proceeds will be donated to Hong Kong Cancer Fund. Unit S303, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, 2743 4338, www.petitec.com.hk.

Yes, really! Located in Aberdeen, new activity centre Hyperspace features Hong Kong’s first quidditch pitch, based on the game invented by J.K. Rowling in the Harry Potter books.

There are two versions available. In the hitech game, teams of three “fly” on hoverboards – 30 minutes of training required – while clutching a broomstick between their legs and trying to score by throwing a quaffle (that’s a ball to non-Potter fans) through suspended hoops while dodging the bludger (another ball).

There’s even a drone-style snitch for a seeker to catch. Hi-tech players must wear padding

and be aged 12 or over. For the under-12s, the low-tech version involves no hoverboards and can be played by teams of up to five.

As well as quidditch, the centre offers bubble soccer (eight-20 players), glow-inthe-dark neon bubble soccer and archery tag, which involves shooting arrows at targets and each other (protective clothing required).

For all activities, the space and equipment cost $2,500 for the first hour, $1,500 for each subsequent hour. 5/F, Remex Centre, 42 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, 3462 3318, www.hyperspace.hk.

Koalas in the Kong Sleep like a baby A new electronic bio-sensory device, Snuza Hero, attaches to the nappy of a newborn to detect normal levels of movement in sleeping babies. If the baby’s movements fall below a certain measure, light vibrations and alerts will sound. The Snuza Hero adheres to safety and design standards with no external cords or accessories for use anytime, any place, anywhere. For details, call 2851 6588 or visit www.snuza.com.

Hong Kong’s first koalas have moved into Ocean Park. Donated by South Australia, the two female and one male koalas are the stars of a new attraction, Adventures in Australia, which opens this month.

The exhibit will also include kangaroos, wallabies, laughing kookaburras (a type of kingfisher) and other native Aussie animals.

To welcome the new arrivals to Hong Kong, Ocean Park invited the public to choose the koalas’ names. Ocean Park, Aberdeen, 3923 2323, www.oceanpark.com.hk.

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news

ESF launches Wan Chai playgroup

ESF Educational Services Ltd (ESL) is opening a new ESF Language and Learning Centre in Wan Chai on April 8. It will operate ESF Early Learners playgroups and will also be a location for ESL’s ongoing programme of extracurricular

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courses, including language, drama, art and music.

“Our playgroups run on a flexible schedule,” says Emma Dorrell, ESL acting head of Language & Learning. “Children can attend once, twice or three times a week. Depending on age, classes are either 90 minutes or two hours long and are led by qualified teachers who bring a wealth of early childhood experience.”

Playgroup class sizes will be small with up to eight children in bright, cheerful, purposebuilt premises with an indoor playground, role-playing equipment, stations for structured learning and multimedia technology such as interactive whiteboards and iPads. Playgroup activities will include sensory play, music and movement, arts and crafts, simple baking, stories and songs, and children’s favourite Circle Time.

2/F Prime Mansion, 183-187 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, 2574 2351, www.esf.edu.hk.

A sheep's tale

Hong Kong-based children’s author Sarah Brennan has released the latest book in her Chinese Calendar Tales series. Appropriately for the Year of the Sheep (or Goat or Ram), this year’s title is The Tale of Rodney Ram. It’s a fun tale about a gorgeous-looking ram who just doesn’t want to lead his flock. With hilarious illustrations by inimitable local artist and SCMP cartoonist Harry Harrison, the book also aims to educate children about Chinese culture and history. Pick up a copy at Bookazine, 3/F Prince’s Building, Central, 2522 1785.

Rock Night at FIS Teen rockers from across Hong Kong will be performing at the French International School’s third Rock Night on March 7. Bands from FIS and other international schools will take the stage from 7pm to 10.30pm for a fun night of live music. Tickets are $100 for students, $150 adults, with all proceeds going to the FIS Development Fund. 165 Blue Pool Road, Happy Valley, 2577 6217, www.fis.edu.hk.

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must have dressing up Snazaroo Face Painting Kit $245 from Bookazine, 46 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, www.bookazine.com.hk.

Tattoo Arm Sleeve $50 from G.O.D, 48 Hollywood Road, Central, 2805 1876, www.god.com.hk.

Hot Dog $640 from Matteo Party.

Guess who?

Fancy dress for kids of all ages.

By Callum Wiggins.

Heinz Ketchup Squeezy Bottle $640 from Matteo Party, 3/F 530 Jaffe Road, Causeway Bay, 2342 8887, www.matteoparty.com.

Muscle Chest Shirt $550 from Matteo Party.

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Baby Owl

By Time To Dress Up, ÂŁ45 (HK$538; shipping available to Hong Kong) from www.notonthehighstreet.com.

The Wiggles Dorothy the Dinosaur tail $185 (including shipping) from ABC online shop, www.shop.abc.net.au.

The Wiggles Henry the Octopus legs $185 (including shipping) from ABC online shop.

must have dressing up

Elsa from Frozen $380 from Toys Club.

Talking Hands Tattoo Animal $55 each from NPW at Lost & Found, 8/F, The One, 100 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui.

Gingerbread Man $920 from Matteo Party.

Inflatable sumo $640 from Matteo Party.

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meet the parents

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xxx

meet the parents

Bringing up boys It’s noisy, competitive and the fridge takes a lot of filling, but life is fun with four boys.

Kay and Stephen Edwards have four sons: Sam, 22, James, 20, Josh, 17, and Tom, 14.

My boys are very similar in their needs and behaviour. I was a tomboy growing up, had four older brothers and most of my friends were boys so I felt I understood boys better.

Having boys felt natural to me. I think I am a better mum to boys than I would have been to girls. They are easy to be with, fun and there’s never a dull moment.

The boys are very energetic. When they were young, I was the demented mum running around in the background pulling them down from dangerous or precarious positions or catching various objects as they tore by and knocked them off. They were high energy, but lovely.

I didn’t buy play guns for them, but they used to make the most magnificent paper ones. I just let them get on with it – they didn’t do it too much.

I recommend the book Raising Boys by Steve Biddulph, it is a good tool when you start out as a parent. I found boys to be very loving. They need lots of cuddles when they are young and even when they get older. Like girls, they need lots of love. And high amounts of energy. Keep them busy doing things they love and they’ll be happy.

When they were little, they got sent to sit on the bottom step of the stairs to calm down and think about their behaviour. I have always

discussed bad behaviour and how they should have acted in some situations. They were brought up to think of others’ feelings and to own up and apologise if they have done wrong. As they grow up it gets more difficult. They won’t sit on the bottom stair anymore! Now I send them to their rooms to calm down and think and then discuss. I hope they learn by example too.

The boys eat us out of house and home on a regular basis. My shopping bills shock the people standing patiently behind me in the queue.

When they were young, I was the demented mum running around in the background

They are still very playful – they jump around on the trampoline and laugh a lot, but it’s a healthy amount of noise. Music is usually the loudest element. Then there are the arguments, which can raise a decibel or two.

I’m glad we live in a detached house.

Rugby is their biggest passion, but they also play football, tennis, water polo and go swimming, wakeboarding and cycling.

At times they shine at athletics. They’re

competitive, but healthily so. They are gracious winners and losers. However, they do play to win.

In my opinion boys are different to girls in many ways. They are more physical, energetic and I think they’re impulsive and more dare-devil. They prefer to be outside running around with a ball and they don’t like to talk about feelings too often. Boys are very loving and protective. My experience is they develop later in life and are more dependent for longer. But they catch up with the girls and succeed just as well.

They will talk about their feelings, if I ask, but they have to be in the right mood and I only get so much. They are fairly happy-golucky, nothing much fazes them. They will chat happily at the dinner table about whatever the day has brought. They say things as they are and, once said, they tend to move on. They are not too complex.

They have all struggled with focusing on homework. What can I say? They are boys – square pegs in round holes where education is concerned. However, they learn through good peer example, patient teachers and proactive parents. It’s not been easy, but they get there in the end.

When they were young, they used to cling to me for protection, now they are older they are more protective of me. Time will show how our relationships change when they meet their partners and I no longer am the only woman in their lives – looking forward to that chapter!

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feature

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feature

Boys behaviour: nature or nurture?

Dr Ian Lillico investigates why boys behave the way they do.

The nurture vs nature debate has been raging for the past 100 years. I would like to share some strategies and recent research with you about why boys act as they do.

There are three major factors influencing our boy’s behaviour: biology (nature), the environment (basically nurture) and the groups they belong to (peer groups etc).

Much early work on boys’ behaviour focused on testosterone (biology) as the prime reason for why boys act the way they do, but this has since been challenged and the other two factors have been added as a result of further research internationally.

Biology First, let’s look at biology or the testosterone hormone. Much of our sons’ inappropriate behaviour has been excused by labelling such behaviour as a direct result of testosterone or testosterone poisoning. We have a saying throughout the world, “boys will be boys”.

Many boys see this as an excuse for bad behaviour and hide behind this saying, so be very careful about saying it within their earshot. Like most parents of boys (we have three sons, now in their 20s and 30s), my wife and I have said it. And in the presence of other adults while delighting in the fact that our wonderful boys are energetic, fun-loving, less particular about their looks or clothing, active, reckless and carefree, it is okay. But please don’t let your boys hear you.

When puberty and even pre-puberty strikes, however, boys mostly change from being open, carefree, talkative and gregarious to quite sullen, monosyllabic, grunting little

creatures and many mothers despair they have lost their sons. Some escape this (or it can happen later), but this is certainly the biology (testosterone) kicking in.

During this difficult time, boys’ bodies and particularly their brains are getting massive doses of testosterone and, consequently, they often struggle with a number of issues including a newfound interest in their willies!

We sell a book titled Living with a Willy in our

The type of man our boys become is largely the result of the school we choose online shop, it is a great read for boys and their parents but it’s graphic, with descriptions of what goes on behind their bedroom or toilet doors and what is typical for their age.

It will save you much embarrassment, answer all their (and your) questions and is funny but also moral and engaging.

Environment In terms of nurture or environment, we mean the loving, caring homes boys come from and the other major environment they live in: school. Gender studies by Sydney University (Australia) concluded some years ago that since the mid-1990s the school environment has been slightly more influential on the way a boy developed his notion of masculinity than the home. Interesting. According to Professor

R. Connell’s work, the type of man our boys become is largely the result of the school we choose for him.

Now the parents reading this are not average, so don’t despair as I have no doubt your influence is paramount. But what has happened throughout the world is that we are spending less quality time with our children and the internet, mobile phones, television, Xboxes, PlayStations, iPods and iPads are replacing us as methods of getting information, ideas and even values.

Boys in particular tend to mimic what and who they see, hear or watch. It is still predominantly the home that is influential on a girl’s femininity as she is less affected by what she takes in.

If we want to win back our boys we need to be vigilant about what they watch, hear or see and we need to spend more quality time with them.

Quality time includes watching a TV show or movie with them. Even though it is a non-verbal activity, you are doing it together and it is very effective. We should show an interest in boys’ activities, both physical and electronic. Play the occasional computer game with them and use your mobile phone to send positive texts. Use the Internet to send affirming emails reminding them of their qualities and strengths as often as you can.

Boys tend to put themselves down and rarely hear positives from their friends. Girls tend to praise each other much more. It is common to hear in the schoolyard a girl saying, “Your hair looks beautiful today, Mary.”

But can you imagine a boy praising another

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feature

If we praise the occasional virtue we can do much to raise our sons’ self esteem boy like this? I doubt it. Boys tend to give each other praise by punching each other in the arm. But because they don’t hear the words, boys mostly have an artificially low self-esteem.

We can assist our boys by praising them verbally (with the occasional back slap or high five, of course). But for praise to have a profound effect on self esteem, it needs to be given by someone who has a good relationship with the child (such as parents), privately and not in front of peers or siblings.

It often needs to be written (or texted) and it needs to be specific. For example, “You were very patient waiting for me to help you with homework today, Peter – thanks.” This way patience becomes part of Peter’s internal CV and, if it is done regularly, it could raise his self esteem significantly.

Many kids who misbehave will have very little to bring to the surface when we ask them to list their qualities, but if we praise the occasional virtue we can do much to raise our sons’ self esteem and lower the need to have them increase their peer esteem by being the class clown and acting out other forms of attention-seeking behaviour. There are 52 virtues used universally – download

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the list and please try to include them in conversations with your children.

As expat parents you all know what a great job Hong Kong schools do, so keep connecting with them as I witnessed during my visits over the last few years and work together with the teachers for your sons.

Groups

complication for parents in this age of information is that some of the groups our children belong to are online, so be extra vigilant here.

There is so much more I would have liked to share with you but please look at the many free articles on my website, www. boysforward.com, particularly Insights into Boys and my 52 Recommendations. And sign up for our newsletters. I met so many amazing, caring parents dedicated to their children when I visited Hong Kong to do a series of teacher and parent seminars in 2011 and 2012. I am planning to visit again in the near future.

Finally, some brief words about peer groups.

Peers are most influential in the 10- to 15-year-old age group with peer pressure (and hence the severity of being excluded or bullied) occurring about 18 months earlier for girls because they tend to mature earlier.

The mean ages are 10.5 years for girls and 12 MEET THE EXPERT for boys. This means we need to be extra Dr Ian Lillico attentive and vigilant I am a father of three sons (now in at these ages and to their 20s and 30s). I spent 31 years ensure we know who as a teacher then administrator our children are mixing in Western Australia schools and with and how those was a high-school principal for friendships are going. my last 10 years with the WA At home we also Education Department. I won a need to keep stability Churchill Fellowship in 2000 to further research boys’ underand try to make home achievement in the northern hemisphere and am now an life smooth, predictable international consultant in gender and education. I run seminars and happy. If tragedies for parents and teachers in Australia, Hong Kong and overseas occur at these ages and work for Edith Cowan University in Perth as a university compensate and seek supervisor of primary and secondary trainee teachers. help or it could result in To keep up to date with news about raising boys in Hong Kong long term problems for and Australia, please sign up for our free newsletter on our your child.

Boys Forward Institute website, www.boysforward.com.

The added

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open day states’ school

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open day states’ school

American International School Evie Burrows-Taylor discovers a warm and technology-focused through-school behind the red brick walls. Photos by Cherrie Yu.

The red bricks of the American International School (AIS) in Kowloon Tong give a warmth to the campus that continues all the way into the classrooms. Opening in 1986 as the California International School with just 50 pupils, today the bright and lively campus buzzes with more than 800 students.

Renamed in 1996, AIS is an all-through, independent, non-religiously affiliated school.

It follows the US standards-based curriculum including the Common Core State Standards for all grades, responsible for determining exactly what students should know at the end of each level.

Like many international schools in Hong Kong, AIS’ focus is on producing conscientious global citizens, explains Head of School Cameron Fox. “We’re preparing students for a rapidly changing world by developing committed life-long learners ready for the responsibilities and expectations of global citizenship,”

The kids are really caring so there’s a family feel to the school

he says. “We have a keen focus on wellroundedness.”

Fox, who has been with the school since 2000, highlights the importance of teachers putting themselves in the shoes of the learner.

“Teachers need to understand where our pupils are developmentally and use that to shape classroom practices. The key is understanding children, knowing where they are and where you will take them.”

As a result, the school has a strong

idea of the staff it wants to attract, looking for people who will go out of their way to develop a bond with the students. Speaking with middle-school principal Pamela Smith and one of her students, Natalia Chu, it is evident the approach is effective, with the pair demonstrating a shared passion for the school and a strong sense of mutual respect. Chu is an enthusiastic member of the yearbook committee and a regular pianist at school assemblies. “I’m not scared of performing because everyone’s so friendly,” she says.

Fox adds: “We have a nice student body, because the older ones cross paths with the younger ones all the time. The kids are really caring so there’s a family feel to the school.”

The student body is multicultural, with more than 30 nationalities represented, including about 20 per cent from the US and 15 per cent-20 per cent from Hong Kong.

The staff is also international, with about 40

Learning at AIS happens indoors and out.

expat-parent.com | 27

open day states’ school per cent hailing from the US and others from Canada, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Spain, France and Singapore. The school’s modern language teachers are all native speakers.

“We’re particularly passionate about teacher education here, and this is one of the areas where we’re growing and improving,” Fox says. “It’s the most important thing because they have the greatest impact on our learning. We’re really focusing on enriching professional development and working with other schools and the Institute of Education.”

AIS is in the process of introducing STEM education – an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates applied science, technology, engineering and maths – into the regular school timetable. It is seen as increasingly

important for the modern workforce.

“There’s quite a lot of excitement about what we’re doing in terms of moving towards STEM education, so robotics, coding, all of those things are beginning to grow in our school,” Fox says. “The hiring we’re doing this year is being used to bring in staff to take these subjects to the next level.”

AIS is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to provide an affordable option for families seeking an American international education in Hong Kong. As a result, it has resisted the introduction of a debenture scheme and other large fees that may prevent families from seeking admission, however, there are waiting lists for some grades. AIS does not have a support programme for English as an academic

We’re moving towards STEM education, so robotics, coding are beginning to grow in our school

language or for students with special needs, and students seeking admission are expected to be proficient users of English according to standardised assessment tools used throughout the US. With such a wide age range, the events timetable is bursting at the seams, with

The primary school is characterised by bright and colourful classrooms.

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open day states’ school

AIS has resisted the introduction of a debenture scheme and other large fees

highlights including the elementary school’s Literacy Week and Celebrate Kindness Week, university and career fairs for high schoolers, and school-wide events such as the AIS Art Show and PTA Winter Fair.

“There’s also the upcoming high school talent show, which takes on a life of its own,” Fox says. Performing-arts enthusiasts can join the high-school drama club, which puts on original shows that students write, produce and direct. And the school is considering Gardening, sports and dining facilities.

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open day states’ school

renovating a space that will allow the students to do more performances.

AIS graduates pursue courses in higher education in some of the world’s major universities. One of its star seniors, Dean Kim, has already received an offer from internationally renowned university Johns Hopkins, where he hopes to continue his studies in engineering.

“AIS has helped me with my English, as well as in terms of building up my confidence, and the teachers are very supportive here,” he says.

And it’s not just current students who are loyal to the school; one alumni is back in her former school to finish her teacher training.

“Several of our students, who are now living all over the world, pop in to say hello when they’re in Hong Kong,” Fox says. “Those moments are really special to me.”

AIS, 125 Waterloo Road, Kowloon Tong, 2336 3812, www.ais.edu.hk.

AIS is an all-through, independent, non-religiously affiliated school.

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principal’s office

Cameron Fox

Question time with the Head of School at the American International School.

What was your dream job when you were at school?

I wanted to be a journalist.

How long have you been a teacher?

I came to Hong Kong in 1993, so I’ve been in education for 22 years.

What are some challenges of being Head of School?

The key is finding the right people to make sure the school runs efficiently and I’m very fortunate, I have a great team.

How do you see the relationship between principal and students?

As the school grows that becomes more

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principal’s office of a challenge. When I first worked here, I knew the name of every kid, but increasingly my daily interaction with the students has reduced. My two daughters are now in middle school here, so I have a strong understanding of what’s going on through them.

The most memorable event of your career?

Experiencing some of the school’s alumni choosing to teach has been very powerful and fulfilling. When I look at our senior classes at graduation, they really are a tremendous bunch of people and they go off to be really good university students. It’s been wonderful to see.

What do you like best about Hong Kong?

I’ve been here 22 years, my family’s here, my wife is from Hong Kong and the kids were born here. I love its energy and I’m so fortunate that I came. It’s my home.

Best advice you were given by a teacher?

The more you put in, the more you get out.

Any tips for de-stressing?

Golf.

I love Hong Kong’s energy and I’m so fortunate I came.

It’s my home

What talent would you most like to have?

I’d love to be able to speak a second language. When I look at the students and my kids, the way they switch in between two, three, even four languages, is great. Or to play a musical instrument – I never got the chance to do that in school and as you get older there’s less and less time in your life to do that.

What quality do you value most in people?

Trust. I like to trust people but it takes time.

Did you have a favourite teacher growing up?

I had two or three – my first drama teacher, Dennis Maloney, really, really impacted me.

Did you have a favourite subject?

My favourite subject was English. I really enjoyed Shakespeare, particularly Macbeth and Hamlet.

Tell us about a typical day for you at school.

There are very few typical days. There are certain events in the school that I need to go to, I work closely with my curriculum coordinator, my tech people and with the principals. There are four sections of the school and they throw up different stuff, so they definitely keep me busy. Days tend to be quite long, I rarely finish before 6 o’clock.

Share a memorable time with a student.

There was a young Japanese kid when I first came to AIS, who only stayed with us for a year before going back to Japan. About two or three years ago, he turned up out of the blue, on his way back from India. He was so skinny and wearing these really old clothes, but he sat down and told me all about his journey. I hadn’t seen him for seven years.

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sponsored column

Applying to British universities ITS Educational Services explains how UCAS works.

All applications for full-time courses at British universities are made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

Hong Kong is its second largest international market after mainland China and UCAS advisers visit twice a year. Regular university fairs in Hong Kong can be an excellent way of finding out more about individual courses.

What to consider Candidates may apply to up to five university courses. They write one personal statement that is submitted to all five choices, so it is important the courses are broadly similar.

Try to establish whether chosen courses have any requirements other than grades that will need to be fulfilled prior to applying.

These might include International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Law Aptitude Test (LNAT), BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT) or UK Clinical Aptitude Test.

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Subject choices at school will have an impact on the likelihood of being accepted.

For example, many economics courses require a good pass in maths. They will accept A level, but not IB standard level.

Making a UCAS application Students at international schools and some local syllabus schools in Hong Kong will use their school as a UCAS centre. If students are unable to use their school, there are other UCAS centres, including ITS Education Asia (www.itseducation.asia/online/choosinguniversity.htm). UCAS centres help guide the student through the process, offering advice about choices and personal statements and processing replies to offers.

Personal statement A personal statement is designed to showcase the student to the universities he

or she is applying to, explain the candidate’s reasons for choosing a particular course and show how his or her choice of academic subjects contribute to making the student a good candidate. A carefully prepared personal statement can contribute a great deal to the student’s success with his or her application and for this reason some guidance and input from experienced counsellors, such as those at ITS Education Asia, can be very valuable.

For details, visit www.ucas.com.

ITS Educational Services offers numerous services to families who are looking for entrance to international schools. These range from school advice, school assessment preparation, intensive English courses for entry into mainstream schools and consultancy support for entrance to universities. For details, email anne.m@itseducation.asia.

expat-parent.com | 35

after school ni hao

Clockwise from top left: Easy English for Kids, music and Mandarin at Southside Mandarin, and little learners at Mandarin for Munchkins.

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after school ni hao

apprendre le français

aprender español

learn English

Mind your language

學中文

It’s never too soon to start learning a second language. Annie Wong checks out classes for kids.

British Tutors Individual or group lessons in a variety of languages including English, German, Latin and Spanish can be held at the student’s home or online. Tutors are matched to each child’s educational needs to form a better rapport and match the teaching to a child’s learning style. Prices vary with location. Classes cover phonics, reading, comprehension and creative writing. Interactive holiday workshops are also available. Unit D, 11/F, Ho Lee Commercial Building, 38-44 D’Aguilar Street, Central, 8191 2252, www.britishtutors.com.

Easy English for Kids Based in Sai Kung, Easy English for Kids runs English and Mandarin playgroups taught by native language teachers as well as language tuition for children aged three and up. Playgroups have up to seven students and cost $190 each; tutorials are $200 for a group class or $275 for a private session. As well as reading, discussions and sing-a-longs, activities aim to explore children’s creativity and develop interpersonal skills. 28/F, Sai Keng Village, Sai Sha Road, Sai Kung, 3487 3053, www.eek.com.hk.

GAIA World Language Founded in 2013 by three mothers, GAIA World Language offers classes in Chinese, English, Spanish and Latin for all ages. All

materials are produced in house and are taught by native language teachers in an interactive group environment. It aims to improve reading, writing, speaking and listening with a focus on grammar and pronunciation. Classes are available seven days a week and start at $400/hour. 9/F, Universal Trade Centre, 3 Arbuthnot Road, Central, 2530 9888, www.gaialanguage.com.

Tutors are matched to a child’s educational needs to form a better rapport Interactive French With tutors from French-speaking countries, this educational centre teaches French to children of all ages in either private or group lessons. French for Toddlers (aged two-four years) teaches young children basic sounds and vocabulary in familiar themes such as greetings, family, school and home. French for Children (aged five-12) uses practical and proven interactive learning activities.

From $4,500 for a course of 15-20 sessions.

Unit D, 3/F, Man Lok Building, 89-93 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan, 3563 5263, www.interactivefrench.hk.

International Tuition Services ITS offers educational support for children from 18 months to 18 years. Its language tuition includes Mandarin, English, Spanish and French, taught by highly qualified tutors using materials supplied. Prices start at $550 a class, with private or group sessions available to engage children in speaking, listening and writing with confidence. ITS has centres in Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, www.tuition.com.hk.

KidsEdge Experienced native English-speaking teachers offer language tuition for children from age two in groups of up to four or private lessons.

Courses include Kindy Cambridge, public speaking, storytelling and interview skills.

Prices vary, from $660 for two classes a week to $1,350 for five classes a week.

2302 Universal Trade Centre, 3 Arbuthnot Road, Central, 2868 0636, www.kidsedgeeducation.com.hk.

Mandarin for Munchkins Part of Yifan Mandarin school, Mandarin for Munchkins runs age-appropriate language classes for children aged one to eight years at all levels. Lessons are held seven days a week in recreation clubs as well as the school’s premises in Central and Discovery Bay. Classes are held in groups of up to six students and cost $190-$250 each. Language

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after school ni hao

For young children many schools combine learning a language with activities such as art or playgroup. From left: Passion for Language; Easy English for Kids.

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after school ni hao camps during school holidays teach Mandarin through various activities and excursions. For details, visit www.mandarinformunchkins.com.

Miles International Academy This new Repulse Bay preschool runs an after-school Mandarin Club for three- to six-year-olds. It takes an unconventional contextual approach to learning, led by the child, teaching Putonghua and pinyin through recreational tasks, learning about Chinese culture and various excursions. B102, The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 3586 3071, www.milesinternational.com.hk.

Monkey Tree English Learning Centre Open since 2009, Monkey Tree now has 35 learning centres across Hong Kong. It offers tailored group English lessons for children aged three to 12 years as well as private tutoring with qualified native English-speaking teachers. Sessions take a thematic approach to teach phonics, reading comprehension, grammar, conversational skills and creative writing and cost from $140 an hour. Private tutoring starts at $550 an hour. For details of

Themes and activities such as storytelling, role play and physical games immerse children in the Chinese language your nearest centre, call 3563 6771 or visit www.monkeytree.com.hk.

Passion for Language Private and small group English classes (maximum four students) are held at the student’s home or Passion for Language’s centre, and rates vary accordingly.

Courses include Preparation for Primary for preschoolers aged three-five, and Cambridge Young Learners for children aged six to 12. Experienced teachers keep sessions relaxed and engaging, using a variety of communication activities, storytelling and children’s songs. 11/F, Gaylord Commercial Building, 114-118 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, 9231 5537, www.passionforlanguage.com.

Southside Mandarin Age-appropriate Mandarin classes for children aged six months to 12 years teach the language through different activities, such as drama, art and music. Teachers are native speakers with substantial experience in early childhood and primary education.

The language programme is devised to help children practise their Putonghua while igniting their imagination. One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 3427 9619, www.southsidemandarin.com.

Spring Learning Centre Qualified and highly experienced native Mandarin-speaking teacher Tina Lau offers Mandarin tuition for children aged one to three years old. She uses themes and activities such as storytelling, role play and physical games to immerse children in the Chinese language. Toddlers are introduced to the pinyin phonetic system. The Mandarin@Spring programme is $3,600 for 12 classes.

3/F, Centre Point, 181-185 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, 3465 5000, www.spring-learning.com.hk

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me and my hobby nice try

Hebe Talas

The 15-year-old Sai Kung Stingray tackles girls’ rugby.

Hebe Talas wins the Best & Fairest Award for under-16s girls at the New Year’s Day Youth Rugby Tournament.

I’m in year 11 at Renaissance College and I have been playing rugby since the age of eight.

When we came back to Hong Kong from Taiwan, some family friends suggested I join Sai Kung Stingrays and it was one of the best decisions I ever made. My two sisters and I are still all playing today.

Rugby is such an engaging game. Some sports start and stop but rugby just keeps going. It’s constant action and can be really unpredictable. It keeps you on your toes.

I play in both 15s and sevens teams. I think I prefer the 15s as it’s more of a team game but the sevens can be quite exciting.

I play inside centre. For my position you need good vision because when you receive the ball from the fly-half, the other team is already charging towards you. Quick decisions need to be made about how you will play the ball.

I like the aggression of the sport. If you are having a frustrating day, going to a training

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session or match and making tackles is fun.

When you get tackled you have to get up and keep going, there’s no use lying on the floor and staying out of the game.

the crowd only gets to see the women’s final. The women’s game has been receiving more exposure in the past few years and the standard is getting higher and higher.

Stingrays have training sessions twice a week. I really look forward to training on Friday nights. Our coaches make sure we work hard to improve our skills and game tactics.

I was concussed once playing rugby. I took a knock to the head when I went down from a tackle. No one realised I was concussed until the end of the game when I wasn’t feeling very well. Although I’ve seen a few girls with broken collarbones over the years, scraped knees are the worst injury that we suffer from.

If you care about nice-looking knees, don’t join a rugby team…

Fitness sessions are hard work. At the end of the sessions no one feels good. Your muscles ache and you feel drained. Our coach, Henjo, says that suffering together brings us closer as a team and it all pays off come match day.

There are a good number of girls playing rugby in Hong Kong but it’s still not very popular in local schools.

The girls’ game is actually very different to the boys’. Girls have to play more tactically because we don’t have that same strength or aggression. The boys’ game is more physical.

During the Hong Kong Sevens it’s a shame

Time management can be difficult.

Sometimes I have rugby training four times a week on top of other sports and it can be difficult to balance studies and my sporting commitments. During exam periods I take time off from training and concentrate on my school work.

My advice to anyone thinking of playing rugby is just to give it a go. Don’t be scared.

Once you join the team and start playing you might just find you love the game.

We see the individual.

Hong Kong Academy offers a rigorous international education that engages students as unique individuals with different interests, goals, and approaches to learning. As an IB World School for students ages 3 to 18, Hong Kong Academy challenges all students to reach their potential and prepares them for life in a dynamic and diverse world.

To learn more about our school and community or to arrange a tour, please visit www.hkacademy.edu.hk or call 2655-1111.

learning, growing, understanding

expat-parent.com | 41

what’s in season

Get in line

Join the queue for these iconic Hong Kong foods. By Cherrie Yu.

Egg waffle What is it: A spherical waffle made from egg batter in a traditional iron waffle maker. Some snack shops offer flavours such as chocolate, but we think this local favourite is best served hot and plain.

Price: $10-$12.

Queues form: LKK, 492 King’s Road, North Point, plus eight branches.

Pineapple buns What is it: Officially recognised as part of Hong Kong’s living heritage, pineapple buns were developed by Tai Tung Bakery 70 years ago.

The sweet buns are not pineapple flavoured but get their name from the topping: a crunchy layer of sugar, flour, eggs and lard that cracks like the skin of a pineapple.

Price: $4.50 each.

Queues form: Tai Tung Bakery, 57 Fo Choi Street, Yuen Long, 2476 2630.

Egg tart What is it: Baked egg custard in a shortcrust pastry shell; puff-pastry versions are called Portuguese egg tarts. The most famous egg tarts come from 60-year-old Tai Cheong Bakery. There was outrage in 2005 when rent hikes forced it to close, but it later reopened.

Price: $3.50-$8 each.

Queues form: Tai Cheong Bakery, 35 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, www.taicheongbakery.com.

Beef brisket noodles What is it: Beef brisket in slurpy rice noodles has been pulling in the crowds for 90 years at this specialist no-frills restaurant that serves pretty much nothing else. It’s a stalwart on foodie lists worldwide.

Price: $42 for beef brisket with rice noodles; $120 for beef brisket in broth.

Queues form: Kau Kee Restaurant, 21 Gough Street, Central, 2850 5967.

Michelin-starred dim sum What is it: Hole-in-the wall dim sum shop Tim Ho Wan has the most affordable Michelinstarred food on the planet. Don’t miss the signature baked bun with barbecue pork, vermicelli roll with pig’s liver, pan-fried turnip cake and steamed egg cake.

Price: $15-$26.

Queues form: 9-11 Fuk Wing Street, Sham Shui Po, 2788 1226. Branches in Olympian City, Central, Tseung Kwan O and North Point.

Garrett Popcorn What is it: Crunchy, delicious popcorn in paper bags or the Chicago brand’s famous striped tin drums. Flavours include cheesecorn, butter, Macadamia caramel crisp and more.

Price: bags from $35, quart tins from $99, gallon tins from $239.

Queues form: 1/F, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, www.garrettpopcorn.com.

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what’s in season

Jenny Bakery The handmade cookies produced by Jenny Bakery are an international phenomenon, selling about 6,000 tins a day. Almost every morning, long lines of mainland and Korean tourists and locals form outside its branches in Sheung Wan and Tsim Sha Tsui.

The biscuits are so popular customers are restricted to just two tins each and supplies regularly run out by early afternoon.

There’s a cookie black market, with the tins sold at a small markup causing the bakery to put up a disclaimer on its website. There was even a (small) furore over claims the store had turned away a local customer.

So what’s all the fuss about? Well, one waft of the aroma from the teddy bear-decorated tin sets mouths watering.

The handmade cookies are light, smooth and buttery. As well as delicious Danish butter cookies, tins contain four or eight flavours including coffee, oatmeal raisin and shortbread.

Small tins start at $70, big tins at $130.

Jenny Bakery also sells nougat at $25 for five pieces.

15 Wing Wo Street, Sheung Wan, 2524 1988 (open 10am-7pm). Shop 24, G/F Mirador Mansion, 54-64 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2311 8070 (open 9am-6.30pm), www.jennybakery.com.

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table for four

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table for four

Dip and dunk Warm, comforting and fun, hotpots and fondues are perfect family meals on chilly days.

Fondue

threes at home. 1/F, The Peninsula, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2696 6769, www.hongkong.peninsula.com.

Chesa If you haven’t hit Europe’s ski slopes this year, head to Chesa at The Peninsula for an Alpine food fix. Hong Kong’s quintessential fondue restaurant, Chesa even looks like an old-fashioned Swiss chalet, complete with wood furniture and a roaring fire, and has been warming the territory’s tummies for half a century. Think rich Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeoise cheese fondue served with baguettes ($260), fondue Montagnarde, which combines Emmentaler, Appenzeller and Gruyère cheeses with smoked mountain bacon ($270), and melted raclette du Valais with new potatoes ($175 per plate). Leave the under-

Classified Always a winner with families, most Classified branches serve cheese fondue on chilly days, made with a mixture of comté and Emmental cheese, plus white wine and kirsch. Sides come as mixed platters – some of which are distinctly un-Alpine – including croutons, apples and potatoes. Other choices include a platter of prawns, roasted red onion and potatoes, or roasted red onion, cherry tomatoes, potatoes and zucchini. Classified, 108 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, 2525 3454, www.classifiedfood.com.

Haagen-Dazs For a fondue with a difference, Haagen-Dazs’ chocolate and ice cream offering is a sure-fire child pleaser. Dunk a ball of ice cream into the hot sauce and the chocolate will set hard around it like one of the brand’s signature ice cream bars. Fondue sets start at $270 for 16 mini scoops, with fresh fruit, marshmallows and biscuits. Available at dine-in branches, including Shop 2, G/F, The Peak Galleria, 118 Peak Road, 2849 5269, www.haagen-dazs.com.hk.

The Verandah Every winter, this Southside favourite dusts off the fondue and raclette sets for its annual cheese and chocolate specialities. A real log fire keeps things particularly cosy in the Reading

Left: fondue and a roaring fire at Chesa, The Peninsula’s Alpine restaurant. Above: Mongolian hotpot at Little Sheep.

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table for four

Room, ready for all that comforting melted cheese. Gratinated raclette cheese with boiled potatoes and traditional condiments starts at $288, with sides of assorted charcuterie available. There’s a choice of fondue including Champagne fondue with Gruyère and Tilsiter cheeses. For dessert, there’s a Lindt chocolate fondue with fresh fruits, berries, brioche and marshmallows ($288 for two). Fondues are available until March 15. 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay, 2292 2822, www. therepulsebay.com.

Hotpot Canton Pot

Chocolate fondue at Canton Pot.

Located in Lodgewood run by L’hotel, this restaurant is all about hotpots. The menu features more than 100 ingredients with a variety of soup bases, condiments and sauces. Try the signature Miyazaki A5 beef chuck, Kurobuta pork and deluxe mushroom platter. For dessert, choose from dark or white Belgian chocolate fondue, with marshmallows, lady fingers and seasonal fruits for dunking.

Reservations essential. High chairs available.

Open daily 5pm-2am. 2/F, Lodgewood, 1131 Canton Road, Mong Kok, 3968 7888, www. lodgewood.com.hk.

Little Sheep This hotpot chain started in Mongolia in 1999, and now has outlets in Hong Kong, Korea, Indonesia, Japan, Canada and the US. There’s an all-you-can-eat option ($138 each, plus $18 for unlimited soft drinks) or an a la carte menu. We went for the buffet option and found it loaded with high-quality beef and lamb for the hotpot, plus a handy table of pre-cooked dishes to stave off hunger pangs while the hotpot heated up. There’s a huge variety of meat, vegetable and soup base choices, including a half-half option of two soups in one pot for those who just can’t decide. It’s casual, busy and popular with local families dunking away in the steaming bowls. English menus are provided on request. No high chairs, but then toddlers and hotpot really don’t mix. 1/F, 26 Kimberly Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2722 7633, www.littlesheep.com.

Concordia International School Admission Office: Tel: +852 2789 9890 Fax: + 852 2392 8820 Email: office@concordiaintl.edu.hk 68 Begonia Road, Yau Yat Chuen, Kowloon, HK www.cihs.edu.hk

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table for four

It’s casual, busy and popular with local families dunking away in the steaming bowls

Tao Heung With 26 restaurants across Hong Kong, Tao Heung is a reliable option. Columns of steam rise above the tables when hotpot time rolls around. There’s a plenty of choice on its a la carte menus, including meat, vegetables, meatballs and mushrooms. For an extra $12, get unlimited soft drinks and ice cream – bound to be a hit with kids. High chairs available. Hotpot is available nightly from 6pm-11.15pm. Branches include Pok Fu Lam, Sheung Wan, Tseung Kwan O and Tsim Sha Tsui. 2/F CNT Tower, Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, 8300 8121, www.taoheung.com.hk.

Melted chocolate, a floating bowl of nuts and ice cream balls, what’s not to like about Haagen-Dazs fondue?

expat-parent.com | 47

big day out weirder and weirder

Goldfish come in all shapes and sizes.

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big day out weirder and weirder

Shop till you drop at the Ladies’ Market (above) and Fa Yuen Street (top).

Play the markets Hannah Grogan blazes Mong Kok’s market trail.

M

ong Kok isn’t for everyone, especially when the mercury climbs into the 30s, but the cooler weather makes this the perfect time to explore the city’s liveliest district and its weird and wonderful specialist markets. The market trail stretches from Prince Edward to Yau Ma Tei. The Hong Kong Tourism Board offers a guided walking tour ($450), but you can do it yourself for free.

Yuen Po Street Bird Garden There was a lot of fuss in 1997 when the government moved the long-established bird street from a back alley in Yau Ma Tei to permanent market stalls in the Urban Renewal Authority’s special “garden”. But even die-hards have to admit it’s a pleasant place today, with its flame trees, moon gates,

Outlets piled high with Western chain store and designer clothes pull the crowds

and sights with more than 100 shops selling seasonal blossoms. These days it’s mostly (air-conditioned) shops rather than stalls, with exotic and local blooms, plus plants, seeds and accessories. For those without green fingers, there are silk flowers too. Flower Market Road, Prince Edward (MTR Exit B1).

Fa Yuen Street mosaics, pagoda roofs and all those trilling exotic birds, handcrafted bamboo cages and bags of live crickets. Owners still “walk” their songbirds here, making this a living part of Hong Kong’s cultural history. Yuen Po Street, Prince Edward (MTR Exit B1).

Flower Market Right next to the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, the flower market is a jungle of exotic smells

On the other side of Prince Edward Road, Fa Yuen Street’s discount fashion outlets attract more locals than tourists. Shops and stalls here sell fluoro sweater sets, ski gear, towels, Christmas decorations and fruit, but it’s the outlets piled high with Western chain store and designer clothes that pull the crowds.

Shop for yarn and handmade scarfs, gloves and beanies at the stall on the corner of Nullah Road. When it comes to haggling, saying

expat-parent.com | 49

big day out weirder and weirder

please and thank you will get you a long way.

Or try “Tai gui la” (too expensive) and take it from there. Open dailiy 10am-8pm. Prince Edward MTR, Exit B2.

Goldfish Market Just round the corner is the goldfish market, lined with shops dedicated to selling fish of all varieties (and prices) from all corners of the globe. There are stores specialising in certain species, goldfish and koi carp in all shapes and sizes, plus pets, reptiles and amphibians.

Tung Choi Street North, Mong Kok (Prince Edward MTR Exit B2).

Ladies’ Market

Clockwise from above, fortune telling at Temple Street Night Market; Yuen Po Street Bird Garden; Flower Market.

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Further down Tung Choi Street, near the junction with Argyle Street) and popular with tourists, Ladies’ Market is the place for knockoff wallets, tacky mobile-phone covers, slogan T-shirts and beaded jewellery. It’s busy and not all that interesting to be honest, but there’s a string of Japanese restaurants serving decent lunch sets, or head to the corner of Dundas Street for Kowloon’s tastiest chips at Ireland’s Potato (43P-43S Dundas Street, Mong Kok, 2151 0887). Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok MTR, Exit D2.

big day out weirder and weirder

Jade Market This long-established covered market has more than 500 stalls selling mostly jewellery, plus “antiques” and other bric-a-brac. It’s a fun place to shop for seed pearls, small jade carvings, rings, bangles and carved hangings.

Open daily till 6pm. Kansu Street, Yau Ma Tei MTR Exit C.

Temple Street Night Market

Show and tell When you’re ready to drop after all that shopping, head to the Langham Hotel’s alfresco terrace and bar, The Backyard, for a comfy chair and a drink. Hold an impromptu show-andtell session to check out each other’s bargain buys and unwind over pizza and cocktails.

Open daily from 5pm. 555 Shanghai Street, Mong Kok, 3552 3388.

Another iconic market that’s not quite what it used to be, the night market is worth a browse for cheap CDs and DVDs, knock-off bags and clothing and some delicious market food that makes the visit worthwhile. Grab a seafood dinner and round out the night with a blast of live Cantonese opera or fortune telling. Open daily, sunset to midnight. Temple Street. Jordan Station MTR, Exit A. Getting there The MTR is your friend. Alternatively, there is parking at Grand Century Place on Prince Edward Road West, opposite Yuen Po Street Bird Garden.

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travel flights, camera, action

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travel flights, camera, action

Location vacations

From Harry Potter to The Hobbit, visit the locations of your favourite films.

Paddington Filmed on location in London, children’s movie Paddington portrays the British capital at its best. With cameos by famous landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the city almost steals the show from its eponymous hero. Even Paddington railway station scrubs up nicely.

Walk in his paw prints on the new Paddington Bear Tour to be launched at Easter by Britmovie Tours’ (www.britmovietours.com). The threehour mini-coach tour starts at Marylebone Station and includes such locations as the Brown family residence on Windsor Terrace (actually Chalcot Crescent in Primrose Hill, NW1), Hampstead, Maida Vale and Portobello Road, where you can browse the market and visit Mr Gruber’s antiques shop. The tour finishes at Paddington Station where there’s a dedicated Paddington memorabilia shop. Adults £27; children aged three-15, £17; private tours available.

Fans can stay on Chalcot Crescent in a self-catered three-bedroom townhouse (from £385 a night at www.onefinestay.com).

Nearby boutique property Ten Manchester Street Hotel (www.tenmanchesterstreethotel. com) is offering a Paddington Package, with one night in a family suite, a cuddly

Stroll through the gardens of Bag End and take a selfie in a hobbit hole

Paddington Bear and marmalade-themed afternoon tea, from £360 a night.

Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit It’s no secret that Middle Earth is in New Zealand. Director Peter Jackson used the

incredible landscapes of his home country as locations in his six Tolkien movies and fans of the films have been flooding in ever since.

We’re not just talking about the majestic Misty Mountains (location: Lake Wakatipu) or the grasslands of Gondor (location: Twizel), but cute-as-a-button Hobbiton in the Shire.

The film set is open for visitors in Matamata in the North Island. Completely rebuilt in 2011 to film The Hobbit, the set has 44 hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Pub, double arched bridge and famous Party Tree. To access the film set, book a guided tour and stroll through the gardens of Bag End, take a selfie in a hobbit hole and have a second breakfast, elevenses or even dinner at Shire’s Rest café. Costumes and going barefoot are encouraged. When in Hobbiton…

Tours start at NZ$75 (children aged 10-14, NZ$37.50; aged five-nine, NZ$10). Or book the Romney Package, which includes a tour of Hobbiton, a barbecue lunch and farmstay from

Left and opposite: the set of Hobbiton in Matamata, New Zealand. Above: Paddington hits Buckingham Palace, London.

expat-parent.com | 53

travel flights, camera, action NZ$1,450 each (based on two adults sharing), with children from NZ$320. For details, visit www.hobbitontours.com.

Harry Potter Harry Potter locations are spread across Britain, from London to Scotland, via historic buildings (Gloucester and Durham cathedrals, Alnwick Castle, Bodleian Library in Oxford), beaches (Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire) and dramatic landscapes (Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland).

Start with “The Making of Harry Potter”, a tour of the props, costumes and fantastically preserved sets at the Warner Brothers Studio in Leavesden, near London. Visit the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office and Diagon Alley, board the Knight Bus, drink a butterbeer and ride a broomstick (www.wbstudiotour. co.uk; £101 for a family of two adults and two children). This month, the studio unveils a large expansion, which includes the original Hogwarts Express steam engine and a recreation of Platform 9¾.

In London, visit locations such as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron pub at Leadenhall Market – an optician in Bull’s Head Passage inside the Victorian covered market.

Pay a call on the snakes in the Reptile House at London Zoo, where Harry discovered he could speak Parseltongue (snake talk) in the first film. The original Platform 9¾ is at King’s Cross Station between platforms four and five, but the series is celebrated between platforms nine and 11, where fans can snap a selfie with a trolley embedded in the wall marked Platform 9¾.

Brit Movie Tours (www.britmovietours. com) offers five different Harry Potter trips, including a walking tour of London and visits to Hogwarts locations in Oxford.

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider Much closer to home, action flick Lara Croft: Tomb Raider was partially filmed in Siem Reap, Cambodia, two-and-a-half hours’ flight from Hong Kong. Several of the area’s famous Khmer temples are used as locations: Angelina Jolie powerslides her Land Rover to a halt and tools up outside the Bayon, with its enigmatic giant faces, then encounters a mysterious girl in the overgrown temple of Ta Prohm, near Angkor. Both locations are stunning and a surefire hit with visitors of all ages, as well as the nearby Angkor Wat. There’s plenty of accommodation to suit

Harry Potter locations are spread across Britain, from London to Scotland via historic buildings and dramatic locations

all wallets at Siem Reap, including the ultra luxurious Amansara, the boutique Belmond La Residence d’Angkor and the historic FCC Angkor. Dragonair flies direct between Hong Kong and Siem Reap daily (www.dragonair. com). For a tailor-made itinerary, try Hong Kong travel agent Lightfoot Travel (www.lightfoottravel.com).

Jurassic Park With the fourth movie in the franchise, Jurassic World, opening this year, it’s a good time to revisit the locations of the original Jurassic Park.

Though set on a fictional island off Costa

From top: Harry Potter locations include Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland, the quadrangles of Oxford University and King’s Cross Station in London; Lara Croft screeched to a halt outside the Bayon temple in Cambodia in Tomb Raider.

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travel flights, camera, action Rica, it was filmed mainly on location on the Hawaiian island of Oahu.

From Honolulu, Hummer Tours Hawaii (www.hummertourshawaii.com) runs Jurassic Park safaris – minus the dinosaurs, sadly.

The five-hour tour visits locations used by the makers of LOST, George of the Jungle, Godzilla, Pirates of the Caribbean 4 as well as Jurassic Park. Tours from US$149 or $129 for children. New Hong Kong holiday specialist Flight Centre can tailor make a holiday to Hawaii (www.flightcentre.com.hk).

The tour visits film locations used by the makers of LOST, George of the Jungle, Godzilla as well as Jurassic Park On safari in Hawaii, Jurassic Park-style.

expat-parent.com | 55

money & me

Bey Logan After wrapping the Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon sequel, the movie producer and martial artist discusses his finances with Hannah Grogan.

Bey Logan with his wife, Elizabeth, and five children.

Tell us about your background.

My biological parents are Australian but I was adopted and raised by middle-class English parents. From when I can remember, I was fascinated by movies and martial arts.

How did you get into movies?

I didn’t come to Hong Kong to write subtitles

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and promotional materials, but it got me into the industry. You’re never going to meet people sitting at home watching films, but you are in a film company office. I did three years at Media Asia and three at Emperor, then I formed a company with actress Maggie Q and later joined The Weinstein Company as vice president for Asia for acquisition

and production. After that I formed my own company, B&E. What credit cards do you use?

I have one Visa card on the back of my HSBC account. It’s a corporate account. I’m a notorious spendthrift. I have an enormous weakness for books, movies and kung-fu

money & me weapons. I try to limit myself. Invisible money is scary. I pay it off at the end of the month.

Do you play Mark Six? I don’t gamble.

by the level of worry about what may happen next. When you have five kids, you’re always as happy as your least happy child. That said, the rewards of my lifestyle make the added stress worthwhile.

Are you a spender or a saver?

Spender.

Do you manage your own affairs?

Elizabeth, my beloved wife, does that for me.

When were you poorest?

When I first came to Hong Kong, I lived in an illegal rooftop structure and did a bit of

What was your best investment?

I have not invested wisely in the past, I spent it and had fun. But we’ve now bought an apartment on Caine Road.

I have an enormous weakness for books, movies and kung-fu weapons freelance work for magazines in England. I wrote a book called Hong Kong Action Cinema.

I remember that time with extraordinary fondness because I didn’t have many bills to worry about or the things that now keep me awake – I was living in a very direct and pure way. Now I feel my quality of life has diminished

What was your worst investment?

Restaurants. I’ve had two – I should have learned. The problem with the first one was location, the second one was management.

Tell us about your kids.

I have five children: Ryan is 17, Calvin and Kyle are 13-year-old twins and I have four-year-old twins, Sean and Taia, with [my second wife] Elizabeth. I have custody of them all and they all live in Hong Kong and attend various schools here.

Do you have any advice on teaching children about money?

I’ve tried to put across the idea that the love of a parent is not expressed by how much they give you. If they work for me for a certain number of hours, they get a certain amount of money. The coalition between work and money is very important.

How much pocket money do you give your children?

The older ones used to get $100 a week pocket money with strings attached. My wife would say it’s too much, but they worked to earn it. Now they get a lump sum that they take to the school to spend on snacks.

What is the most extravagant thing you have ever bought?

A really nice combined record player and CD system for about $10,000.

Do you use Octopus?

Everyday.

expat-parent.com | 57

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the bald truths of fatherhood

We don’t talk anymore Simon Parry misses telephone calls.

There is a veritable hit parade of songs from my youth that, tragically, means nothing to our teenage offspring – Donna by 10cc, Telephone Line by ELO, Back of My Hand by the Jags, 5705 by City Boy, You’ve Got My Number (Why Don’t You Use it?) by the Undertones, to name a few.

They belong to pop music’s great lost genre: telephone songs. There used to be loads of them. Debbie Harry of Blondie (Call Me, Hanging on the Telephone) rarely seemed to sing smoulderingly about anything other than sexually suggestive telecommunication issues.

(There was, incidentally, a lesser known sub-genre of telephone answering-machine songs championed by Paul Evans’ Hello, This Is Joannie, a celebration of the new-fangled gadget’s ability to bring back from the grave a girlfriend with a horrid whiney voice.)

It’s no cliché to say they don’t write songs like that anymore. Why? Because the teenage target audience for pop music doesn’t actually make phone calls anymore, because it’s old-fashioned, too low-tech and involves conversation. As the visionary Sir Cliff Richard once warbled with chilling prescience, “It’s so funny how we don’t talk anymore…”

Teenagers: they text, WhatsApp, WeChat, Facebook and SnapChat but rarely use their phones for their primary intended purpose. I saw my younger daughter stare aghast at her mobile the other day when it made this weird ringing noise instead of pinging, bleeping or twanging like it normally does. (To her relief, it turned out to be a wrong number.)

Our children refuse to answer the landline at home because, as they point out with flawless logic, it can’t possibly be for them, which is probably just as well considering

64 | expat-parent.com

they’re so unused to speaking on the phone they can only give a strangled grunt in response to a polite inquiry. Advanced telephonic techniques such as asking who is calling and taking a number are light years beyond their capabilities.

I feel sad for them. As teenagers, they will never know exquisite torment of waiting for someone you like to ring you, or forcing yourself to wait hours before ringing someone so as not to appear too keen, or the happy

Our children refuse to answer the landline because, as they point out with flawless logic, it can’t possibly be for them silence at the end of a long chat in the first flush of new love that is broken with the words: “Go on, you put the phone down first.”

Instead, children engage in a relentless drone of mundane all-inclusive online conversations and know precisely where every one of their friends, boyfriends and girlfriends are at any given moment simply by checking their Facebook status or their latest Instagram selfie. I ask you, where’s the romance and mystery in that?

When my elder daughter’s friend split up with her boyfriend recently, he dumped her by WhatsApp. They didn’t speak. He wasn’t even in the same country. I’m not sure if they ever actually spoke or met, let alone snogged.

Parents are guilty of similar communication failings, of course. I can be on

a plane flying somewhere to write a story for an editor in London I haven’t actually spoken to and have only exchanged emails with before rushing out to buy an air ticket and book a hotel.

Sometimes at 35,000 feet, I’ve thought, “Hang on. What if the features editor’s rebellious teenage son/spurned wife has picked up his laptop and decided to send his correspondents around the world on imaginary assignments?” Horror grips me as I consider who might cover my bar tab in Bali or Beijing or wherever.

Clearly, as Sir Cliff so sagely implied, we all need to talk more. On a job in Yunnan last month, over a lavish dinner, my photographer colleague Alex informed me that in Italy if a group of friends go out together for a meal, they begin by putting their mobile phones in a pile in the middle of the table. The first one to pick up his phone picks up the bill.

At least I think that’s what he said. I was too busy exchanging smutty Valentine’s Day text messages with my wife and checking the football scores on my iPhone to listen to his incessant chatter. Honestly. Some people just don’t know when to put a sock in it.

Formerly the owner of dreams and a full head of hair, Simon Parry is a jaded, middle-aged journalist and father of four. He lives in Sai Kung with his wife, his children and his sense of profound disappointment.