Sai Kung May 2017

FAMILY | FOOD | HOME & LIVING | TRAVEL

May 2017

S e k a n s u o n J

GIFTS FOR

r’s e h t o M day PAGE 10

Sheung Yui UNCOVERED

The dragon’s back

Dragon Boat Festival returns

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Sai Kung home renovations

The really useful magazine May 2017

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

PEOPLE

18 Lisa Christensen Founder of Hong Kong Cleanup.

4 Snapped!

Sai Kung’s social life.

THE PLANNER

LOCAL 20 Cementing things over Construction is underway in Clearwater Bay.

6 Happening in May What’s on.

FAMILY

ON PATROL

10 The mother lode Great gifts for your mum.

21 Police blotter Sai Kung Police updates.

OUTDOORS 12 Return of the dragons Your guide to Dragon Boat Festival NEWS 14 What’s going on?

In your backyard.

GIVEAWAYS 16 Free stuff Fab things to win.

VILLAGE FOCUS 22 Sheung Yiu The hidden repurposed village.

COVER STORY 24 Home improvement A visit to two beautifully renovated Sai Kung homes.

SPECIAL FEATURE 32 Time to junk Where to go to hire a boat.

EDUCATION 36 American School Hong Kong Kate Davies takes a tour.

EATING 40 Dine alfresco Perfect time to hit up these alfresco restaurants.

TRAVEL 44 India Two weeks in the Golden Triangle.

HOROSCOPES 56 Signs from the stars Adam White predicts your future.

PETS 58 Ask Dr. Pauline “Is my dog depressed?”. Plus Walkies.

GARDENING 61 Gardening in Hong Kong What to plant in May. VINES IN SAI KUNG 64 The pets are next Stephen Vines weighs in.

ZIM-CITY 54 Paul Zimmerman explains…

Disposal charges.

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“IF YOU CANNOT DO GREAT THINGS, DO SMALL THINGS IN A GREAT WAY.” - NAPOLEON HILL

Find us on Facebook Sai Kung Magazine

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contributors

Adele Brunnerto

Shreena Patel … is edit or-i n- ch

ie f at Fa st M edia es ig n co nt rib ut or . ... is a re g u la r d Born in L on d on, t and a os P g n ni or sh M e us a n ed hi C to w th or ou k fo r th e S a ba nk b ut m oved n sh e’ s to H on g K on g fo st M edia . W he r pa st-e dit or at Fa b u sy m u m a n d lo ve, su ns hi ne a nd a a s ch e’ a sh ng g, e in of rit ca re er. n ot w T hi s m onth Sh re en ta travels to In dia ve r to th re e sp or if u l ’s u n pa id ta x i d ri G ut ol d en Tria ng le. R ele vi sits a bea d ea A d n. al re l a ild bo ch ut g it on lo vi n pa ge 44.

4. ho m e on pa g e 2 C le a rwat er Ba y

Brent Potting’sercover

th ot o fo r th is m on ey, … to ok th e p h yd n m oved fro m S y tl en ec R . ot sh e p h ot og ra p hi c th in n ee b s a B re nt h d co ve rs er 10 y ea rs a n ov r fo ry st u et d in m erci a l to st re m co m o fr g n everyt hi p h ot og ra p h y.

Want to write for Sai Kung Magazine? Contact editorial@fastmedia.com.hk

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people DB Lovers

HK SUP League

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say cheese Hong Kong Rugby Sevens

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planner

MAY 30

Sai Kung Dragon Boat Festival

Dragon Boat races are upon us! Races run from 8am-2pm, Sai Kung Waterfront promenade.

See page 12 for our Dragon Boat Festival guide.

MAY 1 Labour Day Public holiday.

MAY 3 Buddha Birthday Celebrations Public holiday.

UNTIL MAY 4 Cheung Chau Bun Festival A colourful and unique Hong Kong festival featuring bun towers, performances and lion dances. Don’t miss the Bun Scrambling Contest at midnight on the last day of the festival. Pak Tai Temple, Cheung Chau, www.cheungchau.org.

For the ferry timetable, visit www.nwff.com.hk

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happening in May MAY 4-7 Geronimo Stilton, Live in the Kingdom of Fantasy Mouse adventurer Geronimo Stilton embarks on his biggest adventure yet as he attempts to rescue the Queen of the Fairies. Tickets start from $295, Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, www.hkticketing.com.

MAY 6 Malvern Meet & Pre-school Meet Malvern College Hong Kong regularly holds small group sessions for prospective parents to learn more about the school, expected to open in September, 2018. Teachers and senior management will be there to answer any questions you may have. The next one is from 9:30-11am (pre-school) 11:30am-1pm (primary and secondary), Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel, Bauhinia Room, 4/F, 3 Canton Road, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. Sign up at www.malverncollege.org.hk/infosession

MAY 6-14 Serve-a-thon Hong Kong In its inaugural year, this event aims to bring together NGOs, corporates, government, media and the public to highlight the importance of community engagement in helping address social issues. Over nine days, the city will unite through hundreds of volunteer activities taking place across Hong Kong. Whether you are an individual, family, school or corporation, find out how you can join in at www.serveathonhk.org.hk

MAY 6-18 Window to My Soul

MAY 5 Kidz Night Out Held from 6-9pm, Kidz Night Out aims to provide an educational experience for children, where they can learn, build and play with LEGO. Pizza and drinks are included. $300 per child or $250 for current students. Book your spot by calling 2791 0007. For more information visit bricks4kidz.com.hk/saikung

Artist Ignatius Agwunobi is holding his first solo painting exhibition at H Studio Gallery.

The showcased work celebrates life and nature through the artist’s own eyes. The first day is the opening party where you can meet Agwunobi himself. Drinks and food available at the gallery.

Free admission. 6-8.30pm for opening party and noon-4pm every day after. Closed Wednesdays and Fridays. H Studio Gallery, 1/1 Wan King Path, Sai Kung. For more information call 9123 8664.

MAY 7 Sai Kung Sunday Market Browse through over 60 stalls of food vendors and artisans at this well-established indoor market. Children can enjoy face painting and cuddles with adorable puppies, while you eat, browse and shop. 11am-5pm, Hong Kong Academy, 33 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung.

MAY 10, 11 & 13 Stamford American School Open House Stamford American School are holding several open days throughout May. To RSVP, visit www.sais.edu.hk or call 2500 8688.

MAY 13 Outlook Festival Hong Kong Launch Party 2017 Outlook Festival Hong Kong is the only underground Bass Music festival in Hong Kong. The outdoor venue is located in Ma On Shan featuring a 10,000 sq-ft open area with a beautiful panoramic view of Tolo Harbour.

Advanced tickets $380 (group discount available), $400 on the door. For tickets and more information visit outlookfestival.hk

Hebe Haven Yacht Club Family Fun Day

MAY 14

Young sailors will have the opportunity to try dinghy sailing at Hebe Haven Yacht Club’s Family Fun Day. Participants will be able to experience controlling the boat as well as join in with games and fun races. Suitable for children aged 4-10. Children must be accompanied by one adult. 10am-1pm and 2-5pm. $365 for members; $525 for nonmembers, includes one child and one adult. For more information and bookings, call 2719 0926 or email sailadmin@hhyc.org.hk

MAY 6 2017 Bonaqua LIFEPROOF Action Sprint RUN Returning for its 14th year, Action Sprint Run will be holding its final leg of its three race series in Sai Kung. The course follows Sai Wan Road in Sai Kung East Country Park before heading onto the Lok Wu Hiking Trail. The race starts and finishes in Pak Tam Chung.

The race starts at 8am. For more information visit www.actionasiaevents.com

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planner MAY 13 & 14 HKAC Musical The students of Hong Kong Adventist College will perform the award-winning CATS musical.

Be entranced by the adaptation from TS Eliot’s ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’, packed with music and dance. For more information, call 2623 0216 or email newstart_hkac@yahoo.com

IRIS: YOUR ESCAPE

M 13 &AY 14

Hong Kong’s largest health and wellness festival is back with fitness, music, yoga, meditation, performances, silent discos, family activities, shopping and more. Over 60 classes take place over two days. Two-day festival entry is $150 for adults (12+), $75 for children (3-11). Prices are $200 and $100 on the door, respectively. Single-day entry also available. West Kowloon Nursery Park, www.irishkg.com/lineup.

Affordable Art Fair.

MAY 27 Round the World: Russell Howard live in Hong Kong

JUNE 3 & 10 2017 Summer Garage Sale and Markets

UK comedian Russell Howard takes the stage at Hong Kong Baptist University’s Academic Community Hall. Best known as the writer and star of Russell Howard’s Good News, he is currently on a tour of 30 cities across the globe.

Tickets from $488 at www.hkticketing.com or call 3128 8288 to speak to an agent.

Looking for a great bargain? Head down to the 2017 Summer Garage Sale and Markets where you will find a range of new and secondhand goods on sale. Registration for vendor tables still open. 9am-2.30pm. For more information email gujean@ust.hk or call 9045 5942.

Splash 2017

MAY 14 Mother’s Day See page 10 for gift ideas.

MAY 19-21 Affordable Art Fair Shop high-quality yet affordable art. Tickets $160 for adults, $90 for full-time students and senior citizens. Children under 16 may enter for free. Hall 3DE, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, www.hkticketing.com.

MAY 23 World Turtle Day

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Fun swim races for kids at Sai Kung VRC, Emerald Bay, 8am-noon. Lots of categories for different ages plus BBQ breakfast. Keep updated on Facebook at SKSplash or instagram sksplash. Enroll at sksplashes@gmail.com.

MAY 28

happening in May

BOOK NOW JUN 3 Sting - 57th & 9th Tour The music legend tours his latest album, 57th & 9th. See him perform live at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre with a threepiece band. Tickets from $588 at www.hkticketing.com

JUN 9-11 My Fair Lady Join Eliza Doolittle on a journey of self-discovery, as she practices her ‘p’s and ‘q’s, guided by Professor Henry Higgins.

Tickets from $250 at www.hkticketing.com.

The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Drama Theatre, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai.

JUNE 9-11 Don’t Stop Believin’!

A family show by local performing arts group The Performers Studio. The setting is New York in the ‘80s and the story follows a group of inner-city misfits one hot summer.

Featuring evil local town planners, corrupt

The cast of My Fair Lady.

councillors and annoying neighbours, can these crazy kids save their local community centre? Sizzling with rock and pop songs plus toe-tapping ‘80s numbers, you’ll find it hard to stay in your seat. Shouson Theatre, HK Arts Centre, Harbour Road, Wan Chai, tickets start at $180 from urbtix.hk

JUN 27 Britney Spears Live in Hong Kong That’s right, Britney’s in town for one night only. The ‘90s pop icon will be performing in Hong Kong as part of an international tour, before she ends her four-year Las Vegas residency in December. Tickets from $588 at www.hkticketing.com. Arena, AsiaWorld-Expo, Cheong Wing Road, Chek Lap Kok

Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editorial@fastmedia.com.hk.

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family 'Mini teapot' tea infuser $95 from G.O.D www.god.com.hk G/F, 2 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung 2791 7122 “Mom” pendant $630 from Blue Nile www.bluenile.com

The mother lode Gorgeous gifts for Mother’s Day.

Blue Bouquet Silk Scarf $900 from Louella Odie, louellaodie.com

Svenska Hem Scented Candle $220 from kikki-K www.kikki-k.com Shop 220, 2/F Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central, 2116 0870

Pure Lano Natural Sea Salt Exfoliator $395 from the Pure Lano range available at www.zalora.com.hk

'Cheers!' coaster set $195 from G.O.D www.god.com.hk G/F, 2 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung 2791 7122

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Black Orchid Deluxe Hamper 1,558 from Maven $ mavenhk.com G/F, 37 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, 6388 4398

mum's the word Mother’s Day Gift Box 880-1,200 from Ms B’s Cakery $ www.msbscakery.hk 39 Gough Street, Central, 2815 8303

Cosmetic bag $280 each from Mirth, www.mirthhome.com 66 Yi Chun St, Sai Kung, 2750 4800

Mother’s Day cards 25-40 from The Lion Rock Press $ www.thelionrockpress.com

Bloom of Youth Infusion Mask $360 for a pack of three, from the Edible Beauty Australia range available at www.lanecrawford.com and www.sephora.com.hk

The Amber (36 scarlet roses) $1,280 ($2,180 for 64 roses) from ANDRSN www.facebook.com/andrsnflowers Ginger Flower iPhone 7 Case $368 ($398 for iPhone 7 Plus) from Shanghai Tang www.shanghaitang.com Shanghai Tang Mansion, 1 Duddell street, Central, 2525 7333

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outdoors

Return of the dragons Your guide to Dragon Boat Festival, by Eric Ho.

G

et ready for drumming and thunderous cheers as Dragon Boat Festival returns to Sai Kung. Also known as Tuen Ng, the public holiday falls on the fifth day of the fifth month on the Chinese lunisolar calendar - which happens to be May 30 this year. Voted “Best Annual Event” for three consecutive years, the Dragon Boat Festival sees thousands of spectators line along the Sai Kung Promenade to watch around 180 teams compete it out for the top prize.

Itching to start paddling? Join one of many teams competing in the Sai Kung races. Dragon boating not only helps get your body in tip top shape ready for the summer, but is also a fantastic way to delve in and experience a large part of the local Hong Kong culture.

JOIN THE CLUB Blue Sky Water Sports Club

Blazing Paddles

The club’s dragon boat team, MVision Blue Sky, is no stranger to winning. Members train all year round with sessions on Monday and Wednesday evening, and Saturday mornings at Sha Ha Beach. There are men’s, women’s and mixed teams as well as a youth training programme. Start by registering for a trial lesson. 2791 0806, info@bluesky-sc.com, bluesky-sc.com

An all-female dragon boat team which comprises mainly Sai Kung mums. Training takes place every Saturday morning at Sha Ha Beach. Blazing Paddles has trial dates for new members at the beginning of the season, plus an introductory session. wincymarner@hotmail.com

HKA Dragonflies HKA Dragonflies, started back in 2006, has always been inclusive, without tryouts. HKA Dragonflies is made up of teachers, faculty and friends of Hong Kong Academy School. Training sessions are predominantly held in Sai Kung. benjamin.thomas@hkacademy.edu.hk, hkadragonflies.weebly.com

Blue Sky Water Sports Club Way Young Dragon Boat Club Founded in 2006, Way Young Dragon Boat Club is a non-profit sporting organization whose objective is to become a driving force for promoting Hong Kong’s dragon boating sport.

2566 9988, www.wayyoungdragon.com

Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association The large organisation has a training centre in Sha Tin which offers training courses for elementary, intermediate and advanced levels in Cantonese and English. 5233 5299 www.hkcdba.org

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Photo by www.MikaylaPhotography.com

paddle away

DRAGON SPOTTING Sai Kung Dragon Boat Races This popular local event takes place at Sai Kung waterfront promenade. There will be shaded front row seating but you’ll have to get there early as it’s first come first serve. Races begin at 8am and are expected to last until 2pm, but the festivities, game booths and after party continue on until 5pm.

Sha Tin Dragon Boat Races

Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races

The 15th Summer Vigor Mini Dragon Boat Races

Enjoy three days of racing on Victoria Harbour, plus the San Miguel Beerfest - a coldie and some live music goes down oh so well as you cheer on the boats. Races run from noon5.30pm (day one), 8.30am-5.30pm (days two and three). June 2-4, Central Harbourfront, free entrance.

A little later on in the year, the mini dragon boats will have their turn on the water. The event will take place at Jockey Club Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course Pier. Races run from 8am-4pm, September 10, Kau Sai Chau, www.dragonboathk.com

The Sha Tin Dragon Boat Races take place on the Shing Mun river, starting from near Banyan Bridge and finishing close to Sha Yin Bridge.

Races run from 8am-1pm, Shing Mun River, Sha Tin, New Territories.

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news

Hong Kong’s first bike-sharing service

Last month, gobee.bike became Hong Kong’s first bike-sharing system. Over 1,000 bikes were spread out across Ma On Shan, Sha Tin and Tai Po - the number is expected to increase to 20,000 by July.

The service allows users to rent bikes for $5 per hour conveniently through a mobile app. The app uses a map to locate nearby

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bikes which can be unlocked by scanning a QR code. Once done renting, users won’t need to drop off the bike at designated locations, instead they can drop them off at any public space that is legal.

The app is currently only available for Android but an iOS version will be released soon.

Gobee hasn’t had the smoothest of starts though, some of their bikes were found to be vandalised whilst three bikes were thrown in a river in Sha Tin. For more information visit www.gobee.bike

news

Robots making a splash

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Hong Kong held their 12th International Underwater Robot Challenge in Tsueng Kwan O Swimming Pool last month. Using remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs), the teams completed tasks which simulated real world problems encountered at seaports.

The competition is aimed at students from local middle school, high school, community college and university. This year’s competition theme focused on the role of ROVs in securing the health and safety of seaports and how they can help lay the groundwork for the port cities

of the future.

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology were crowned champions of the Explorer class whilst CMA Secondary School won the Ranger class. Teams from Taiwan, Macau and China were also invited to participate in the competition.

The champions qualify to participate in the MATE International competition to be held in California, USA in June.

For more information visit www.theiet.org/hongkong

New heritage centre opens in Sai Kung A heritage centre commemorating the villages submerged under High Island Reservoir will be opening soon along Mang Nin street in Sai Kung town. Dr Lau Chi-pang, Ling Nan University professor and historian is in charge of the project. “The official opening is not yet confirmed but it is looking likely to be in May.” With the construction of High Island Reservoir, some villages ended up submerged under water, such as Lan Nai Wan and Sha Tsui.

The heritage centre will showcase the village’s history, farming tools and customs. Members of the original villages have been invited to attend the official opening.

“I think the heritage centre will be great for the community. People can learn more about the history of Sai Kung. Residents of the area can also find out where some of their neighbours came from and why they relocated into town”, says Lau. Opposite the clinic along Man Nin Street

Sharp Island Pier to be rebuilt

UCI cycling world Dates confirmed for Summer championships Garage Sale and Markets

The second Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Track Cycling World Championships took place last month at Hong Kong Velodrome Park in Tseung Kwan O. More than 300 riders from 41 countries participated in the major cycling competition which saw Sarah Lee Waisze earn a bronze medal for Hong Kong.

After the event, a senior cycling official ruled out the possibility of the UCI track cycling world championships returning to Hong Kong unless there is more financial support from the government.

A spokesperson from Hong Kong Cycling Association commented on the situation, “The first hurdle is Hong Kong must bid to become the host of the event, much like the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup. It is therefore more likely the event is to return in 2019 but right now we’re unsure what the financial situation will be then.”

The 2017 Summer Garage Sale and Markets will happen on June 3 and 10. The event will be held at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and will sell new and secondhand goods including toys, games, books and more.

Registration for vendor tables are still open and funds from table hire will be donated to charity. Food and drinks will be available on the day. Free admission.

For more information or to reserve a table, contact Jean Hudson, gujean@ust.hk

The reconstruction of Sharp Island Pier is underway. The paroject is one of the two endorsed by the Sai Kung District Council under the Signature Project Scheme announced in the 2013 Policy Address.

The new pier will have a longer and deeper berth, allowing larger boats to be accommodated. The project is intended to provide more convenience to tourists and contribute to the development of tourism.

The development is expected to be completed within the second half of 2018, temporary berthing facilities will provided nearby.

For more information visit www.districtcouncils.gov.hk

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giveaways

win at www.saikung.com Cafe Siam Feast on a Thai buffet at Cafe Siam’s all-youcan-eat brunch! Twenty dishes from all over Thailand including appetizers, salads, meats, noodles and rice-based dishes make up the buffet — make sure to try the traditional Koh Moo Yang (char-griled marinated pork), and the Peek Gai Tod (deep-fried single bone chicken wing). We’re giving away two brunches for four lucky diners at their Central and Kennedy Town outlets, worth $1072 each.

Wonderboom Bring your own party to the beach, junk boat or park with the UE Wonderboom.

Part of the Ultimate Ears line of speakers, the UE Wonderboom is perfect for Hong Kong summers. It’s waterproof, floats in water, and it can play music for up to 10 hours! We’re giving away two speakers worth $899 each.

ABA Productions

Face Productions

Based on the picture book by Judith Kerr, “The Tiger Who Came to Tea” is a heartwarming tale about a teaguzzling tiger. In this upcoming musical rendition by ABA Productions, expect oodles of magic, singa-long songs and clumsy chaos! We have four tickets for the matinee show on June 4th, worth $435 each.

Enjoy witty dialogue, much loved songs and breathtaking costumes at Face Productions’ “My Fair Lady” from June 9 to 11. In this musical, Eliza Doolittle goes on a journey of self discovery as she attempts to learn how to speak “proper” English with the assistance of a phonetics professor.

We have one set of four tickets valued at $1,580 to give away.

Subscribe to our e-newsletter to get all our giveaways delivered straight to your inbox: saikung.com/subscribe

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five minutes with

Lisa Christensen Publisher

Eric Ho speaks to the founder of Hong Kong Cleanup.

Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk

Editorial

Editor-in-Chief Shreena Patel shreena@fastmedia.com.hk Contributing Editor Carolynne Dear carolynne@fastmedia.com.hk Acting Editor Eric Ho eric@fastmedia.com.hk

Design

Design Manager Cindy Suen cindy@fastmedia.com.hk Graphic Designer Anna Schulteisz anna@fastmedia.com.hk

Thanks to

Adam White Dr. Pauline Taylor Kate Davies Max Yip Nicola Newbery Paul Zimmerman Stephen Vines

Published by

Fast Media Floor LG1, 222 Queens Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

Photo by Brent Pottinger

I was born in Toronto and raised in Nova Scotia. Growing up in a small city and summering in one of the most beautiful seasidevillages in the world, taught me to value, love and protect nature, as it’s the most important asset we have. Being connected to nature is essential for happiness and good health.

I first came to Hong Kong 20 years ago to visit my parents who had moved here for work. Many perceive Hong Kong to be nothing but a concrete jungle but we’ve got some of the most beautiful country parks in the world. I have been overwhelmed by its beauty, particularly along the eastern coastline from Double Haven down to Sai Kung.

After spending 15 years in the heart of Central I began to feel claustrophobic and increasingly agitated by the ever increasing air pollution, construction, population, tourists and cars. I remember walking to work one morning and thinking to myself, if I don’t move out of Central, I’m going to lose my love affair with this great city.

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I moved to Sai Kung after I was invited to a friend’s housewarming party here.

The view from his place was breathtaking, so I asked him for first dibs on his flat if he ever moved out, and he agreed. True to his word, he texted me over Christmas four years ago and told me he was buying a boat to live aboard and asked if I’d like his flat. As serendipity would have it, my lease was up that month and it all worked seamlessly for a move to Sai Kung.

I’ve never looked back.

My biggest challenge with living in Hong Kong is the plastic and air pollution. The trash that collects on our shorelines impacts human health, the economy, and is suffocating our environment. It is now estimated that by 2050, plastic will outnumber fish in the ocean – that is, unless we do something about it.

I started a grassroot is initiative to start cleaning up beaches in 1999. I later founded Hong Kong Cleanup, which is now recognized as the region’s largest environmental event.

I previously worked in sports marketing, which was a lot of fun, but I choose to leave the corporate world and follow my true purpose, which is to serve, protect and grow.

I started an eco media company which has been an incredible journey. Our first magazine, ECOZINE, is a brand that aims to spark positive change in the world. Our mission is to be the largest and most trusted source of information and inspiration for people seeking to lead a healthy, and environmentally responsible lifestyle.

My partner and I love exploring different cultures, heritage, nature, going on adventures, trying new food, learning about history, and meeting interesting and inspiring people. Refined Travellers is our newest magazine and it embodies everything I love about travel.

I will be travelling more and more as the years go by with my partner Jean, who co-founded Refined Travellers with me. We’ll likely continue to have home bases in Asia and North America.

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local

Sales & Marketing Sales Director Oliver Simons oliver@fastmedia.com.hk

Sales & Marketing Manager Charmaine Mirandilla charmaine@fastmedia.com.hk Sales & Marketing Executive Maria Jones maria@fastmedia.com.hk Kiran Hiranandani kiran@fastmedia.com.hk

Accounting

PA to the Publisher Amanda Chia amanda@fastmedia.com.hk Office Security Cat the dog

Printer

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

Cementing things over Construction is underway in Clearwater Bay. Eric Ho reports. www.saikung.com ads@fastmedia.com.hk @saikungmag facebook.com/SaiKungMagazine GIVE US A CALL! Admin: 3568 3722 Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772, 3563 9755 Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay Magazine is published by Fast Media Ltd. 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. Fast Media Ltd 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 in any way, part or format without written permission from the publisher.

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A

conservation area near Wing Lung Road has been excavated and building work has started. Investigations are currently in progress to identify if the development is illegal.

Paul Zimmerman, CEO of Designing Hong Kong, first alerted the relevant government departments of the situation back when workers began tree felling an area of around 200 metres of idle slopes. An unauthorized road connecting the development area was also constructed. The constructors claimed the project was a farm.

The Lands Department reacted by placing three notices and two concrete blocks in an attempt to block any further construction.

But in a Facebook video uploaded to Zimmerman’s page at the end of March, it is clear that the enforcement had little success with concrete still being poured.

Police were called onto

the scene but the constructors seemed to have a document prepared, “It was an irrelevant piece of paper, but it helped the contractor get back on site. It took another day for the Lands Department to clarify that there was no certificate of exemption, and for Buildings Department and Planning Department to clarify that there were no approvals”, says Zimmerman.

A spokesman from the Lands Department explained the current situation, “We were first alerted to the incident by Mr Zimmerman.

From the [Facebook] video it is not obvious whether the development is illegal or not but we have spoken to the homeowner and stopped the construction whilst the investigations are pending. Whether they need to fix and remove the concrete remains to be seen.”

“The difficulty lies in that normally nobody declares themselves as the person in charge,” says Zimmerman. “In

this case, being able to alert the government while work was in progress, as well as the intervention with blocking of the concrete pouring and the arrival of the police, has helped identify the person in charge and thus there is a better chance of prosecution.”

This is the latest in a string of similar cases popping up around the area, “We have discovered five sites where roads have been constructed over government land, and private land has been excavated. In some cases these were covered with concrete and structures were erected. Often the works proceeds secretly and hidden from the public roads,” says Zimmerman.

When asked what damage had been done, he replied, “Ecology destroyed, streams destroyed, trees felled, concrete poured, structures erected.”

Have your say by emailing editor@saikung.com.

on patrol

Police blotter Senior Inspector Max Yip reports on the recent cases in Sai Kung. · A suspicious object was reported to the police

at 9pm on April 14. Earlier in the afternoon, a male had seen a grenade-like object on the sand near the seashore outside Kau Sai Chau Car Park. On scene, officers could not locate the object due to darkness and high tide and therefore cordoned the area. The following day, Officers of Explosive Ordnance Disposal swept the scene and eventually found the suspicious object which turned out to be a glass-made decoration.

· Two males aged 31 and 35 were arrested for

the offence of ‘Going Equipped for Stealing’.

An informant made a report to the police after he saw the two men acting suspiciously at Pak Tam Chung. Officers from the Rural Patrol Unit and Emergency Unit of Kowloon East Region responded to the call and coordinated a sweep of the vicinity. The men were intercepted and found with a crowbar, hand saw and other

equipment in their possession. They were both holders of mainland two-way permits.

· A male, aged 68, was reported missing after he went fishing out on Port Island. The case was reported to the police after the boat operator he hired failed to locate the man. The Police collaborated with the fire and flying services in a search and rescue operation, but the man is still missing and the search continues.

· D uring the evening of April 18, two friends got into a dispute over a trivial matter in Sai Kung town. The argument led to one punching the other. The suspect was arrested whilst the victim suffered minor face injuries.

· Last month the police received one call to

handle a wild pig and two calls for feral cows.

· A 61-year-old man with a history of heart

problems fell unconscious and died whilst out hiking in Clearwater Bay Country Park. He was airlifted to a hospital in Chai Wan but was later pronounced dead. There has been an increase in the number of hiking incidents with more deaths so far this year than in the whole of 2016.

· A home in Nam Shan was burgled for cash

and jewellry, the total loss of stolen properties amounted to $10,000. The house was left secured after the part-time cleaner finished working at 1pm. Later in the evening, the homeowner returned to discover the French Window on the first floor had been open. The case is still under investigation and no arrests have been made so far.

For more information, contact Sai Kung Police Station, 1 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 3661 1630

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village focus

Sheung Yiu

Eric Ho visits the hidden repurposed village.

A

lthough many have crossed the Pak Tam Chung barriers, few have ventured to the nearby Sheung Yiu Village. The Hakka village is located along the borders of Sai Kung East Country Park and can be reached via a short walk from the Pak Tam Chung barriers.

Pass through the gate and walk along Tai Mong Tsai Road for about 300 metres, passing the playground and barbecue area, and take the first turning on the right, across Fuk Hing bridge. Follow the Pak Tam Chung Nature Trail along the riverside. This was once an ancient village path to Sheung Yiu Village.

Along the way, look out for plants such as bamboo groves, sandpaper vines, longan and incense trees, which were cultivated by the villagers.

The first indication you have reached the village is the lime kiln – a stone construction with a hole in the top – on the riverbank, where the villagers turned local shells and coral into building materials. The villagers would then deliver the materials via boats directly to Sai Kung Market to be sold.

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Sheung Yiu Village was built in the late 19th century by Wong Fat-sing who came from Bao’an County of Guagdong Province.

He decided to build the village in order to accommodate his family and start a lime kiln business in Hong Kong. He built houses, pig pens, a drying terrace and a watchtower to easily spot pirates lurking closeby. The family also had their own farmland in nearby areas such as Pak Tam Chung, San Ya Yiu and Ham Tim. But thanks to the introduction of cement and other modern bricks, the lime industry declined and by 1965 the village had been completely abandoned. In 1981, the village was declared a monument by the Antiquities Advisory Board and eventually restored and converted into a folk museum furnished with typical Hakka furniture and artefacts (open 10am-5pm, or 6pm in summer; closed Tuesdays). The museum showcases the history of the Sheung Yiu Village and the rural lives of the villagers who once vacated the premises.

Each room inside the folk museum showcases a different part of the old villagers life.

Want to be village correspondent? Email editorial@fastmedia.com.hk

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cover story

Home improv ement

Adele B rumme r and E ric Ho visit tw o beau tifully re novate d Sai K ung ho mes.

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natural home Private residence in Ho Chung

O

ne of the greatest benefits of living in Sai Kung is the abundance of nature which encompasses the area. Capitalizing on the beautiful outdoors is exactly what Stephanie Wong, Founder of SW Design, did when she was commissioned to renovate the three-storey 2,100 sq-ft Ho Chung village house.

“The main design concept was to integrate the outside of the home with the inside”, says Wong. “My clients decided to buy this property because they fell in love with its close proximity to nature - not taking advantage of it would have been a waste.”

The clients didn’t want to stare at tarmac every time they looked out of their windows.

The first hurdle to overcome was to reverse the house and convert the front into the back. The rationale behind the decision came from the surrounding greenery which was at the back of the house and the road at the front - the clients didn’t want to stare at tarmac every time they looked out of their windows. Although the job sounds daunting, the solution was to simply board up the original front balconies using glass and strategically cover the undesired view with wardrobes.

The clients were happy to get involved with the design. Besides the integration with nature, they also wanted a modern feel to the house. The entire exterior, including the patio, comprises a minimalistic palette of white and charcoal.

Greenery surrounding the front.

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cover story Stephanie Wong’s renovation tips

Doublie-height ceiling allows plenty of natural light in.

“We used neutral tones to ensure it wouldn’t be too overpowering and went with an industrial look with enlarged windows to take advantage of the beautiful view. The surrounding lush greenery even reflects off the windows.”

Originally, the vegetation was left largely uncared for but it has now been transformed into a beautiful garden which the house focuses on. When clearing the outside area, some of the large rocks were scrubbed clean and left as ornaments scattered around the garden. “Much love has gone into this areazzz, the clients wanted to spend a lot of the time outside and so a large canopy was also installed to accommodate many guests.”

The dark patio continues indoors where you can find accents of natural browns from the teak table, bench and island counter, and the entire room is lined with sliding doors which all open up. This all comes together to create a seamless transition from the outside.

Above the table, the first-floor flooring has been removed to create a double height ceiling which exposes the area to another two large windows from above.

“Taking out floor space is very rare for Hong Kong, but it allows a lot of natural light to flood into the room. It definitely isn’t necessary to turn on the lights during the day. Beams had to be installed to reinforce the structure and accommodate the large opening. We decided to leave them exposed to carry on the industrial design.”

Facing directly outwards is the open-plan kitchen. The size is larger than normal and almost runs the entire length of the living

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room. Wong’s clients prioritise entertaining guests over living space, as evidenced by additions such as the wine cooler, glass rack and a rather conspicuous ethanol fireplace.

The kitchen’s piece de resistance has to be the beautiful vintage stove which was specially ordered all the way from France.

From the stairway up, the house is floored using lighter coloured engineered wood which is easy to clean and maintain. It adds to the natural modern style and the textured surface makes it less slippery.

I call this the luxury helpers room

Rather unusually the master bedroom is housed on the first floor which, thanks to the double-height ceiling downstairs, is visually connected to the living room. “As we removed some of the available floor space on this level, the clients felt it wouldn’t be enough for their four children so we moved the kids up to the second floor. To ensure some privacy we created an alcove to enclose the bed using sliding doors and curtains. When both are opened, the bed looks straight out to the floor-to-ceiling windows, opening the room to the greenery which my clients love so much.

The first floor still has plenty of space to fit

Enlarge window and door openings Most village houses have small windows which leaves the middle or rear of the house dark. Enlarging the windows where appropriate will bring in more natural light as well as help with cross ventilation.

On the ground floor, create large openings with sliding or bi-folding doors to connect interior and exterior spaces. Also, keep in mind when making new openings to arrange not merely from the interior layout but also make alignments with the exterior for a cohesive look.

Showcase that staircase Having a visually open balustrade with glass or metal railing and open risers on steps can make the stair lighter and make the space more open. Also, the stair becomes a nice feature of the house.

Maximize ceiling height Since ceiling height in village houses is relatively low, remove any existing false ceiling and use simple surface mounted light fixtures to maximize ceiling height.

Good quality glass Replacing the standard village house windows with good quality, aluminium insulated glass not only improves the exterior facade but also greatly improves thermal and sound performance.

Capture the best light and view Arrange living room and bedrooms towards the open view.

natural home

Kid’s communal play area.

a good sized office space, communal area with sofa and TV as well as handy wall bed to accommodate guests when they stay.”

“The same enclaved design and partitions were used for the four kids rooms which sit side by side. Connecting the rooms is the communal play area where we installed plenty of desk space bordering the room.”

The first and second floor have their own bathrooms, both furnished identically with a clean white look. Each has a separate toilet and shower cubicles, double sink units and a large bathtub positioned under a long narrow

First floor communal area.

window - once again allowing natural light to flow into the room.

The domestic helper’s and driver’s bedroom are located on the top floor, “I call this the luxury helpers room as they have their own private rooftop. My clients didn’t want to use the rooftop as they already had plenty of outdoor space on the ground floor.”

From an uninspiring village house, the transformation has opened up the property and transformed it into a place which allows the residents to admire and appreciate the outdoors even from the inside.

Contact Stephanie Wong at SW Design on 6128 9774 or stephanie@swdarch.com.

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cover story

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beside the seaside Private residence in Clearwater Bay

I

t’s rare in Hong Kong to find a property that ticks all the boxes, but Tina Atkinson’s home in Clearwater Bay does just that, whether you’re into entertaining, love the outdoors, or simply hanker for a bit of peace and quiet.

Where else in the territory, for example, would you be able to find a house that allows you to anchor a sizeable yacht off a beach at the bottom of your 1,500-square-foot terrace? Add to that a beautiful architecturally designed interior, sunken al fresco seating (complete with an outdoor movie screen), a 29-foot (legal) swimming pool and stunning sea views, and you get the idea that this house is something special.

Having lived in Hong Kong for years, Atkinson bought the five-bedroom house in 2009, initially as a rental investment but with a long-term view to living in it with her family.

Rather than renovating it on the cheap, she invested considerable time, money, vision and planning to get into the shape it is today.

We gutted it and started from scratch.

“It was a completely rundown shell,” says Atkinson. “It was very old fashioned with arched windows and semi-circular balconies.

We wanted to create somewhere we would like to live in ourselves. We gutted it and started from scratch. Everything, including the wiring and plumbing, is new.”

Atkinson enlisted the help of interior architects Jepsen Designs but added a lot of personal input to the project.

Al fresco seating.

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cover story Top of her list of priorities was practical flexibility. Although she wanted open-planned living, it was imperative various areas could be easily segregated into private zones when needed - particularly with young children growing into teens.

To this end, there is a designated movie and chill-out room, while a study area next to the family room on the first floor can be shut off when peace and quiet is required and can also double up as a spare bedroom. There are also two fully fitted kitchens, linked by a wide hatch for serving and clearing and with double-side entry cupboards, which mean you can access what you want without having to walk from one kitchen to the other.

The garden is an entertainer’s delight.

It’s a great party house

“Open-planned living is great but you do need private areas with different functions,” explains Atkinson. “I don’t always want to listen to my teenagers’ movies, computer games and chat for example, so they have their own area they can hang out in. I also wanted some privacy from my helper - and vice versa - which is why we decided on a second kitchen and extensive helper accommodation.”

The open planning also fits with Atkinson’s love of entertaining. The house’s social and engaging design enables both big and small parties to be hosted within. Its convivial feel is particularly evident outside which, along

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(Left) the living room; (right) the en-suite bathroom.

with a pool and sunken sofas, there is also a fully stocked BBQ kitchen and a dining table that can be covered, when needed, by an automatic awning to facilitate year-round living.

“It’s a great party house,” laughs Atkinson.

“It looks particularly stunning when the terrace and pool are all lit up at night.”

The kitchen.

Another characteristic of the home is the meticulous attention to detail - even the smallest aspects have been carefully thought out. There are picture-hanging rails in every room, for example, so you don’t have to worry about unsightly picture hooks and can move your art around as and when you want. Holes are in place along the edge of the swimming pool should fencing be needed to keep little non-swimmers out of the water, and, as well as a handy outdoor shower and bathroom, Atkinson has used non-slip floor tiles on the terrace.

Atkinson chose an interior architect over an interior designer because she wanted the house to have very strong features that would stand out no matter what the decor. A case in point is the staircase, which is a focal point in its own right. The wide timber tread boards are made from recycled old railway sleepers from China (as are the steps in the entrance hall and detailing on the kitchen island), which are flanked by a geometric “bannister” on one side and stylish stainless-steel railings on the other, which stretch from the rooftop down all levels.

The master suite is another visually arresting room. The en-suite contains with a double sink unit, separate loo and shower cubicles lined with luxurious silvery mosaic tiles, plus a freestanding Toto tub. Positioned

beside the seaside next to a picture window and with a neat TV screen at one end, it takes having a bath to a whole new level. Linking the two ends of the bathroom is a dressing area, which is not only practical but adds an interesting dimension to the space as a whole.

Huge floor-to-ceiling windows allow light to flood the house at all times. “There was no question of having anything but large windows, particularly as I’m a big light person,” says Atkinson. “I also wanted good air flow and to be able to take advantage of the sea breeze. We have a sort of skylight/

trapdoor at the top of the house which lets air circulate throughout the house.”

Right on the edge of leafy Clearwater Bay, with hiking trails on the doorstep, a supermarket within walking distance, a host of nearby schools and an easy commute into the city from Hang Hau MTR station, the free-standing house is certainly well located.

It is also part of a self-contained managed development with substantial on- and offstreet parking.

“I’m also a keen yachtswoman so the fact that the house is next to the sea sealed the

Floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom.

deal for me when we were looking to buy,” says Atkinson. “Apart from the possibility of parking your yacht close by, we have direct beach access and you can keep kayaks and paddle-boards down there. There’s even a government concrete ramp so you can launch a RIB.” What’s not to love?

Tina Atkinson’s house in Clearwater Bay is currently available to rent or buy. Contact Annette Steadson at Engel & Voelkers on 3997 3200 or Annette.Steadson@engelvoelkers.com.

The dressing area linking the bathrooms.

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special feature

Time to junk

Where to go if you’re looking to hire a boat. By Eric Ho.

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set sail Michelangelo

Koh Thai Junks

Cruise Sai Kung waters in style aboard the Michelangelo. The classic 80ft yacht holds up to 59 passengers and measures 4,000 sq-ft over three decks. The Captain, A On, can take you on seven different scenic routes, including to Sai Kung, Clearwater Bay and the islands of the Ninepin group. Finding it hard to choose?

Customize your trip by selecting a few specific islands and your preferred length of stay. Extras such as private chef, on board DJ and Jazz Band are also available upon request.

9037 6799, info@michelangelocruises.com, www.michelangelocruises.com

Koh Thai brings its much loved authentic Thai cuisine out to sea on one of seven boats. Get picked up from Sai Kung and sail to a number of beaches dotted around Sai Kung, Clearwater Bay and Hong Kong Island. You can add on water sport activities like wakeboarding, banana boating and extreme body surfing as extras.

Prices start at $680 per person with a minimum booking of 20 people - price includes a Thai buffet.

2668 1468, junks@kohthai.com.hk, www.kohthai.com.hk

Breakaway Not your average charter, Breakaway is a luxury yacht charter company that provides catering, drinks and services to customers. Packages include A Day at Sea, a full day boat trip (starting at $15,900 for 15 people). The package includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks all day as well as inflatable toys and a kayak.

6180 5059, booking@breakawayhk.com, breakawayhk.com

All aboard the Michelangelo.

Jaspa’s Junks Known as the party junk, Jaspa’s Junks offers customizable packages on one of six boats, each fitted with a sound system and a fully equipped kitchen. Packages include food and unlimited drinks ($750 per person with a minimum booking of 14 people). Pick up available from Pak Sha Wan Pier and Causeway Bay. 2792 6001, jaspasjunk@casteloconcepts.com, www.casteloconcepts.com

Breakaway's luxury yacht.

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special feature Aqua Luna

NextWave Charters

HK Deep Sea Fishing

Sail across Victoria Harbour in their iconic red-sail Chinese junk boats or their brand new Ming Dynasty inspired Aqua Luna II. Aqua Luna’s 45-minute evening cruise (starts from $195) takes you across Hong Kong Harbour where you can watch the Symphony of Lights and enjoy a complimentary drink. For parties and corporate events, private charters can accommodate up to eight people.

2116 8821, aqualuna.com.hk

Experience luxury aboard NextWave Charters' fleet of 40 boats including yachts, junks and sailing boats. Enjoy a hassle-free day on the water by choosing one of their catering and drinks packages. The boats can hold up to 40 people with prices ranging from $8,500 to $15,800.

2335 0688, charters@nextwaveyachting.com, www.nextwavecharters.com

HK Deep Sea Fishing offers fixed and tailored day charters with an added deep sea fishing adventure. Smaller boats travel out to Sai Kung and the surrounding islands, whereas larger boats are taken out to the South China Sea. Boats can accommodate up to 30 people.

Fishing trips start from $595 per person. Pick up at Clearwater Bay Golf Club Marina.

8192 7092 , hkdeepseafishing.com

The brand new Aqua Luna II.

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NextWave Charters' Sealine boat.

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education

American School Hong Kong Kate Davies takes a tour.

P

rincipal John Jalsevac is not afraid of a new beginning. He’s been a part of kick-starting three schools; Canadabased Mary Ward Secondary School, Mission Hills International School in Shenzhen and now the American School in Tai Po. “There’s a sense of a pioneer spirit in building a new school. You’re all here for the first time.

It’s like you’ve got a block of clay that you can mould in any way you like. It’s really special.”

His latest venture is most definitely in its infancy, complete with freshly painted white walls, brand new furniture and floors of empty classrooms. The classrooms that are used, are filled with smiling, confident young children, welcoming teachers and walls peppered with multicoloured learning apparatus and students’ work.

Principal Jalsevac’s office is tucked

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away at the end of the administrative wing of the school and yet we can still hear the sounds of children laughing and jostling in the playground.

“We opened in September 2016 with 106 students,” he begins, “Kindergarten to Grade Six.” He goes on to explain that they only moved into the building from an office in Central just two months before that; the building itself is not new, it was built in the early nineties. When the Education Board granted the location for the American School, Principal Jalsevac and his team had the existing building retrofitted. They kept the footprint of the original school but everything has been refurbished with new floors, ceilings, walls, plumbing, electrical and millwork. It’s designed to accommodate one thousand

students with six floors of classrooms and specialty classrooms, an elementary library, a cafeteria plus a covered and an open playground. Their brand new state-of-theart gymnasium is now open and plans for a swimming pool are being discussed. The 150-million-dollar revamp is still ongoing but the remaining work is done during school holidays so as not to disturb classes.

While “new” remains the overriding feeling here, the school is owned by the world’s largest operator of International American Schools, ESOL (Education Services Overseas Limited). American School Hong Kong is its newest addition and its first foray into Southeast Asia. So far the 106 attending students are spread over two kindergarten classes (which begin at approximately 5 years old) and one class per grade from one (age

open day 6) through to grade six (age 11). In the next academic year, they will be opening their doors and new classrooms to Grade Seven and Eight, which will complete the American School’s Middle School. Finally, the High School will be added a year later with Grade 9.

“Our enrollment this [academic] year was 106 and our target was 100. Next year we are projecting 250 students and we are well on the way to getting that.” Principal Jalsevac is clearly confident that now the school is open, and people are coming to see for themselves what they are creating, enrolment numbers will rise, but he’s been here before and is aware of the challenges. “You’ve got to work hard as a new school, because the established schools have earned the reputations they enjoy.” He is aware that many parents will chose an established school over a new one and this is part of the challenge. “I’m familiar with best practice. I know what good schools look like but that doesn’t mean in [the parents’] eyes that in only months [of being open] we have been able to demonstrate that we are a highly selective, top tier school.”

I never apologise for having high expectations and standards in a school.

Their aim as set out in the brochure is ‘To deliver a rigorous curriculum, focused on developing well-rounded, motivated, openminded and thoughtful global citizens.’ To do this, they have chosen to use the US Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards for the Elementary and Middle Schools while the High School will teach the International Baccalaureate or IB Diploma programme.

The way they intend to teach the material will follow the ‘STEAM’ (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) approach where teaching is done through units of enquiry, in groups, where topics across subjects intersect.

The thinking is to approach teaching in a way that reflects the world and the workplace that students will graduate into. Principal Jalsevac explains that mathematics, art, science, engineering and technology do not exist in silos in real life nor do we work only in isolation in the workplace, so it makes sense to teach children to work in groups and learn these subjects in conjunction with one another. “We chose not to do the Primary Years Programme (the International Baccalaurate’s answer to Elementary and Middle School education) which has a lot of similarities to STEAM in that

students are engaged in units of inquiry.

We guide them through essential questions [but] we don’t spoon feed them. We get them to develop ownership and responsibility for their education.”

The curriculum is just one part of the holistic education Principal Jalsevac is intent on giving his students. He sees academic excellence as larger than marks and performance but inclusive of social, physical and creative development.

That in turn goes hand in hand with extracurricular activities that cater not just for sports and arts but service learning, leadership and next generation science. At the base of all this for him though is a sense of community. “It’s the old ‘school spirit’ thing and I don’t think it’s hokey. I think it’s really important.”

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education

School Report

As I speak to him he is hours away from flying out to recruit new teachers. For him, his staff need to operate ‘In Loco Parentis’, which basically translates to ‘how a good parent would in absence of a parent’ and when hiring new staff, he actively looks for that in addition to qualifications. “I never apologise for having high expectations and standards in a school. There’s a huge body of evidence that says schools should have several things; strong teachers,

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outstanding leadership, but high expectations and high standards is always on top.”

For a man with a long ‘to do’ list Principal Jalsevac is very calm. It becomes clear to me that he views this challenge as a kind of a privilege where he thinks of this as a fantastic opportunity and that not every educator gets to do this, which is a sentiment he tries to impress on his staff. “I think we go backwards and forwards as staff thinking there’s some

Established: 2016 Class size: 23 Curriculum: KG1 teacher + 1 EA for 18 students, G1-2: 1 teacher + 1 EA for no more than 20 students, G3-G8: 24 students Max Fees 2016/2017: See website for details Non refundable capital levy: HK$20,000 Address: 6 Ma Chung Road, Tai Po, New Territories Tel: 3919 4111

hardship because everything we do is new.”

Despite this, it’s clear he’s ready to forge forward, “Even with all of that” he smiles, “I wouldn’t trade it for a minute”.

sponsored feature

The forest school revolution in Hong Kong

Anne Murphy, Director of ITS Education Asia, explains the concept.

The ‘Forest School’ concept is spreading, spurred by concerns about children’s loss of contact and understanding of nature.

The approach, which was introduced to Britain in the early nineties, involves taking children into an outdoor, ideally woodland, environment to develop confidence, problem solving, risk taking, creativity and teamwork through hands-on learning experiences. In an age where we are concerned that children are more sedentary, the Forest School programme supports physical development goals, encouraging children to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, explore nature and acquire life skills.

Forest School Programmes in Hong Kong At Forest Waldorf School in Sai Kung, practical and outdoor learning are essential features of the curriculum. Students are engaged in hands-on-activities, which link thematically with their academic classes,

such as beeswax modeling, woodwork, clay work and gardening. Children explore local topography through their nature walks and examine their biological environment.

Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) adopted the Forest School programme at its Early Years campus last September. DBIS has created it’s very own garden based around typhoon-salvaged wood and a range of other recycled materials.

ICHK Hong Lok Yuen’s beautiful green campus at Hong Lok Yuen provides students and teachers with the perfect location to develop this pioneering approach. Innovative work is now underway to establish their very own ‘Forest School’ and outdoor classrooms.

Malvern College Pre-School Hong Kong (MCPS) and Malvern College Hong Kong (MCHK) will also run the Forest School programme from August 2017. It will be run by qualified Level 3 practitioners trained by the U.K.’s Forest School Association.

Excited for your child to attend a Forest School Programme outside of school? HK Forest Adventures, (also known as HK Forest Kindergarten) specialises in taking toddlers and young children, aged 1.5 - 6 years old, into the forest to play. It is an all-weather activities company, meaning children mostly play outside regardless of the elements - if it’s hot, they play in the water, if it rains, they play in the mud and puddles.

The programmes are child-led and not curriculum driven. Visit www.hkforestadventures.com

ITS Education Asia provides an education consulting service that works with families and employers to find the right schools for individual children in Hong Kong, from nursery to secondary schools. ITS also offers research, policy and advisory services for corporations. For more details, contact es@itseducation.asia, 3188 3940 or www.itseducation.asia.

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eating

Dine alfresco

As the weather starts to warm up, it’s a perfect time to hit up these alfresco restaurants. By Annie Wong.

Cielo Sitting on the 47th floor of Crowne Plaza in Tseung Kwan O, Cielo gives a stunning bird’s-eye-view over the area. The restaurant has a large rooftop terrace that towers over nearby buildings and surrounding mountains, perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks or a light snack. Cielo offers predominantly Italian cuisine where you’ll find a range of pizzas, pastas as well as surf and turf dishes like the

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Cielo seafood platter and tomahawk steak that are suitable to share amongst two to three people. To wash it all down, there are mocktails to choose from or there’s also an extensive wine list for the wine connoisseurs.

47/F, Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon East, 3 Tong Tak Street, Tseung Kwan O, 3983 0688, www.ihg.com

outdoor dining Steamers A favourite amongst locals, long-established Steamers is a great place to unwind and is perfect for family day outs over the weekends.

There is a jovial, pub atmosphere where locals and tourists alike enjoy an ice cold beer in its outdoor area. The area is partly shaded with large umbrellas, otherwise opt for a table inside where you can catch a game of football.

Whether you’re there for a quick bite or want a hearty meal, Steamers’ menu has various options like burgers, toasties and salads. There is also a full brekkie available till late morning and a roast on Sunday mornings with the choice of beef, chicken or lamb. Steamers has a special deal with its beers, wines and ciders during happy hour.

66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991, www.steamerssaikung.com

The Conservatory The Conservatory in the Square is a nice addition to the long-established restaurants in Sai Kung Square. Like a few of the other restaurants in the Square, The Conservatory boasts an open door front, with an extension to provide alfresco dining in the heart of Sai Kung. There is also a second floor which can be reserved for parties and group dinners. Owned by power couple and Sai Kung residents, Kim and Robert Cooper, the restaurant serves up a Mediterranean feast with small plates and homemade thin crust pizzas. The Conservatory is open in the mornings, with a comprehensive breakfast menu as well as a few options for the little ones.

G/F, 26 Wan King Path, Sai Kung, 2792 1105, www.enotecagroup.com

Padstow Newly opened Padstow is located in a twostorey building in residential neighbourhood of Pak Sha Wan. Replacing Hebe One O One, the building infrastructure remains largely the same and the ground floor has an open air setting, allowing a comfortable breeze to come through. The outdoor terrace on the second floor overlooks the moor of boats in the glistening bay. The family-friendly restaurant serves a multinational menu with a strong focus on seafood delights including St Mungo fish

and chips and squid ink vongole linguine. There are also various meat dishes like roasted chicken breast, steak sandwiches and spicy BBQ wings.

112 Pak Sha Wan, New Territories, 2335 5515, www.facebook.com/Padstow.HongKong

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eating Sha Tin 18 Sha Tin 18 at the Hyatt Regency Sha Tin gives stunning views over Tolo Harbour.

When the weather warms up, switch to a table on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace. It has a bar area that can cater to private events and dinners, accommodating up to eight tables. Dongguan and Northern Chinese cuisine are the restaurant’s focal point, though the dishes have a modern presentation.

Sample several signature savoury dishes like their Houjie pan-fried fish cakes, handmade noodles and dumplings and their famous Peking duck. If you have room, try their sweet treats like homemade Chinese-style ice cream and dessert.

There’s an afternoon dessert tray on weekends and public holidays.

4/F, 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, 3723 1234, hongkongshatin.regency.hyatt.com

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outdoor dining One Thirty One Plotted in a three-storey building on a big block of land in Tseng Tau Village, One Thirty One is set in a picturesque location just outside of Sai Kung town. The restaurant has a large lawn where children and dogs can run around freely and gives diners a beautiful view of the sea and Three Fathoms Cove. Taking advantage of the seasonal produce, chef Gary Cheuk heads up the kitchen, dishing up modern European cuisine with a French twist. Dishes are colourfully yet elegantly presented and can be personalised for those with specific dietary requirements. There is a four-course lunch set or six-course dinner set to choose from. With such a large plot of land and an open area, the space is perfect for private events and dinner parties.

131 Tseng Tau Village, Shap Sze Heung, Sai Kung, 2791 2684, www.one-thirtyone.com

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travel

India’s Golden Triangle

Shreena Patel heads to northwestern India with her family for a two-week adventure.

I

n a world of increasingly homogenous travel, India is unique. From the snowy mountain tops of Kashmir to the lush rainforests of the South Western Ghats, the silence of the great Thar Desert to the chaos and crowds of Old

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Delhi, its landscape is vast and varied, bound by a deep history, a rich culture and a shared soul.

With our two weeks, we choose to visit the Golden Triangle, a popular route which connects Delhi, the national capital territory, with Agra and

Jaipur. This is definitely not an “off-the-beatenpath” experience, but some things are popular for good reason. The Golden Triangle is a classic introduction to India and a great wealth of culture and history awaits those who choose to see it.

Amer Fort is reflected in Maota Lake below.

the pink city

Jaipur Our first stop is Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan.

India’s largest state is littered with palaces and forts: reminders of the many kingdoms that once vied for the region. It is the chief constituent of what was once known as Rajputana (literally, “land of the sons of kings”), a collection of kingdoms, each ruled by different Rajput clans.

Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, a member of the Kachhwaha clan of Rajputs and ruler of the kingdom of Amer (whose capital, Amer, was located about 11km north of modern Jaipur).

Jai Singh II became ruler of Amer kingdom in 1699, at the age of 11, following the death of his father.

India’s largest state is littered with palaces and forts.

For some years leading up to his ascension, relations between the Mughals and the Rajputs (who had, since 1562, been in alliance) had been deteriorating. They reached their lowest point upon the death of Emperor Aurangzeb, when Jai Singh II found himself deposed of his kingdom

by Aurangzeb’s successor and son Bahadur Shah. Ever the diplomat, Jai Singh II formed an alliance with other Rajput states of Mewar (Udaipur) and Marwar (Jodhpur) and regained the kingdom. In 1727, he founded a new capital and named it Jaipur, after himself. The city was planned and designed by architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya, based on the ancient architectural manual Shilpa Shastra.

Later in 1876, Maharaja Ram Singh II, adorned the city in a pinkish colour (associated with hospitality) to welcome the then Prince of Wales - hence why people refer to Jaipur as “the pink city”. After India became independent from British rule, Jaipur merged with Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Bikaner to form Rajasthan.

Today, Jaipur is a centre of commerce and administration, full of life - and traffic. The streets of the old city are filled with camels, people, cars, motorbikes and rickshaws - even elephants.

In the midst of it all are legacies of the area’s majestic past: City Palace, which continues to house the royal family, Jantar Mantar - the royal observatory, the pink honeycombed facade of Hawa Mahal - a former cloister for royal women, and further out in the hills, Amer Fort.

Eat Tapri - The Tea House has an outdoor rooftop seating area with a wide selection of teas and snacks, including samosas and chilli cheese toast. B4-E, Prithviraj Road, Opposite Central Park Gate No. 4, C-Scheme.

For something special, try the Fairmont Jaipur’s unique dining experience: a traditional Rajasthani thali (a dish of smaller dishes), served outside on the terrace next to an open fire and surrounded by freshly picked, fragrant flowers.

Look out for local speciality, laal maas (mutton cooked with fiery red chillies and other spices not for the faint-hearted!)

Another option for Indian fine dining is Cinnamon at Jai Mahal Palace (Jacob Road, Civil Lines). If you need a break from Indian food, try Steam at Rambagh Palace, which serves up Italian and Lebanese fare (Bhawani Singh Road, Rambagh) or Mughal-inspired restaurant and lounge, Bar Palladio, for Italian food (Kanota Bagh, Bhag Singh Road, Adarsh Nagar).

(Top): Hawa Mahal; (Middle): drinking masala chai and eating chilli cheese toast at Tapri; (Bottom): a sculpture at Jantar Mantar.

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travel

(Left): Anokhi; (Middle): stone lattice work at Amer Fort; (Right): Rambagh Palace.

Shop Jaipur is a shopper’s paradise and famous for three things in particular: block printing, blue pottery and gemstones.

For good-quality, cotton block printed clothes and soft furnishings in a range of colours and patterns, head to Anokhi. There’s a nice cafe next door if you’re feeling peckish - try the fresh pomegranate juice. 2nd Floor KK Square, C-11 Prithviraj Road, C-Scheme.

Visit Kilol for a range of traditional and western clothes and home furnishings. E-141, Sardar Patel Marg, C Scheme.

Head to Hot Pink for clothes, bags and scarves by local designers; IDLI for contemporary Jaipur-inspired home furnishings and apparel in a range of fun fabrics (printed, tie-dye and woven); and Aashka for handcrafted clothes, jewellery, furniture and home accessories (all at Hotel Narain Niwas Palace, Kanota Bagh, Narayan Singh Road, Rambagh).

For jewellery, Gem Palace is listed on most tourist websites - good designs and quality, but prices are very high (Shop No.348, M.I. Road).

Amrapali has a great range of costume and fine jewellery (Panch Batti, M.I.Road).

For more chaos and the chance to haggle, head to the bazaars. There are at least seven but the most popular are Johari bazaar (jewellery) and Bapu bazaar (mojari and leather goods).

Do Visit Amer Fort, built in 1592 by Raja Man Singh.

The best time to visit is in the early morning. It is possible to ride an elephant to the top, but if - like us - you’d rather not, there is a path for walking. Once at the top, you can buy a ticket to enter the grounds and hire a guide (a composite ticket costs INR 1,000 per person for foreigners, lasts two days and includes entry into a number of sights, including Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort and Jantar Mantar). Don’t miss the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) - which supposedly can be fully lit by a single candle, making the ceiling appear as if it were a canopy of stars.

Overlooking the valley and connected to Amer Fort via a series of underground tunnels is Jaigarh Fort, the main cannon foundry of the Mughal empire and still home to the world’s largest cannon on wheels.

Head to Jaipur city and visit the City Palace,

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The Fairmont Jaipur.

a complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings.

There are two parts of the palace: one which is open to the public and the other which is still a royal residence. Entry to the palace is expensive (around INR 2,500 for foreigners) and is not included in the Amer Fort composite ticket.

Cross the road for a lesson in astronomy at Jantar Mantar, constructed on the orders of Jai Singh II, who had a great interest in the subject.

This collection of 19 architectural instruments includes the world’s largest sundial, but laymen may struggle to see anything but odd sculptures and stairs that lead nowhere. It’s worth hiring a guide at the entrance to explain how it all works.

Hawa Mahal’s pink honeycomb facade has become an icon of Rajasthani architecture.

Rising five stories, it was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh to enable ladies of the royal household - who were not allowed in public - to watch proceedings in the streets below in anonymity.

For a chilled out afternoon, have tea in the gardens of Rambagh Palace (the former residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur) and play croquet on the lawn - look out for the peacocks!

Bhawani Singh Road, Rambagh.

If you’re not tired of forts yet, head to Nahargarh Fort at sunset. Perched on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, overlooking Jaipur it has spectacular views. Entry is included in the Amer Fort composite ticket.

Stay Located a 20-minute drive from Jaipur city - The Fairmont Jaipur is a reimagined 16th century Mughal palace, combining old-world beauty with modern-day comforts. On arrival, we get

a fantastic Rajasthani welcome with drums (nagada) and traditional music. The rooms are gorgeous (ask for one with a view to the hills) and guests will notice a recurring parrot motif, a nod to the Mughals’ fondness for the creatures.

Foodwise, highlights include the unique dining experience, Zoya for an international menu and Zarin for Indo-Persian (the pomegranate molasses chicken is a must-try).

After dinner, head to the bar or catch a glimpse of local culture in the tea lounge, where the hotel invites local dancers, puppeteers and singers to perform. There’s also a pool, gym, spa, shops, and childrens’ area. Gold Club guests have access to a luxurious lounge that serves afternoon tea, drinks and nibbles throughout the day. Head there for cocktails and canapes before dinner. Butler service is available for suites and speciality rooms.

Nightly rates start at INR 11,000 plus taxes for a Fairmont Room (based on double occupancy), which includes breakfast. Book online at www.fairmont.com/jaipur or email jai.reservations@fairmont.com

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travel

Agra Once the heart of the Mughal empire, Agra boasts one of the seven (man made) wonders of the world: the mesmerising Taj Mahal. It’s located in India’s most populous state, Uttar Pradesh (UP), and as we arrive in the car from Ranthambore, the difference in our surroundings is stark. The streets are packed and full of noise. By the roadside, crowds gather to hear politicians campaigning in the state elections (as a side note, UP has in fact produced eight of the country’s 14 Prime Ministers). I see two or three cyclists hauling literally hundreds of shoeboxes pass by - the town is famous for its leatherwork and footwear.

Of all our stops, we’re spending the shortest amount of time here: just one night.

Eat In Agra, it's a little harder to find good options outside the big hotels. The Taj Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road has two restaurants in its lobby - GAD offers buffet style dining with a mix of indian and international cuisine while Jhankar serves up a la carte indian cuisine. We choose to dine at the latter with no regrets. The food is

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Inside Agra Fort.

really delicious and great value (the only thing that’s slightly expensive is the beer).

Shop Agra is famous for leather, inlay work (marble inlaid with precious and semi-precious stones) and rugs.

For inlay work, the Taj Gateway has shops in its lobby. Otherwise, ask the staff at reception to

suggest a place (and a price you should pay).

For rugs, try Java Handicraft Export, where you’ll find a selection of beautiful handwoven rugs in all manner of sizes and colours.

You can see them being made outside - it’s painstaking work. (1813/1K, 100 Feet Road, Taj Nagari, Phase II Opposite Hotel Trident. Hilton, Fatehabad Road, Agra-1).

agra-vacation Do Located on the bank of the Yamuna River and constructed from white marble, the Taj Mahal is ethereal in the early morning mist. This mausoleum was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to house the remains of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. From afar, it looks like its been painted with flowers and writing, but up close you can see it’s actually all stone work. The tomb sits at the centre of the complex, which also comprises a mosque and a guest house. Some areas that were once open to the public are now closed off in an effort to better preserve the monument and stop people from chipping away at the precious stones.

Closed on Fridays.

Nearby, the red-brick walls of Agra Fort (in fact a walled city) date back to the 16th century.

This was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638, when the Mughal capital was shifted from Agra to the Red Fort in Delhi.

So le

Ag en t

The Taj Mahal.

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Photo by Vishalsh521 at English Wikipedia

travel

Stay Located close to both the major sights, the Taj Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road isn’t the most luxurious hotel but it’s clean and convenient and the service is good - just what we need for a single night’s stay. Head to the rooftop restaurant during the day for view over Agra and a glimpse of the Taj Mahal. Breakfast is served downstairs in the lobby, with hot parathas made to order. As

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we get up to leave, the staff very kindly offer to pack us a few for our trip.

Nightly rates start at INR 8,500 (plus 14% tax) per room, not including breakfast. For reservations, visit gateway.tajhotels.com/enin or email reservations@tajhotels.com

(Above): The Gateway Hotel, Fatehabad Road; (Below): a cyclist ferrying shoeboxes.

dilli dalliance

Delhi An ancient Persian prophecy proclaimed, “whoever builds a new Delhi will lose it”.

The prediction was apt. Delhi has served as the centre of a succession of empires and powerful kingdoms. The Indian capital has been built, destroyed and rebuilt no fewer than eight times, with each incoming power making the city its own - some even believe it to be the site of the legendary Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandava kingdom referenced in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. The eighth city was Lutyen’s Delhi (or New Delhi), built by the British and declared as the new capital in 1911.

Each of Delhi’s cities has left its mark in form of monuments, forts and tombs scattered throughout the region. Ancient culture sits alongside rapid modernisation, from the immense Jama Masjid and narrow spice-filled streets of Chandni Chowk, to the colonial-era parliament buildings and expansive boulevards of Lutyen’s Delhi, to the shiny high rise buildings of Gurgaon. In the last few years, the city has also seen a new metro, new hospitals, malls and residential complexes, a revamped sports stadium and a new terminal (3) at Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Jama Masjid.

Eat No visit to Delhi is complete without a good meal. The tastiest food is to be found streetside, but if you’re worried about “Delhi belly” it’s best to stick to recommended restaurants.

Khan Chacha sells delicious and great value kebab rolls (think paneer, chicken, veg, lamb…)

- perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. 50, Khan Market.

For a break from Indian food, try these New Delhi haunts: Ping’s Cafe Orient (SE Asian, 13 Lodhi Colony Market), Guppy by Ai (Japanese, 28 Main Market, Lodhi Colony) or

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The spice-filled streets of the Old City.

Lodi - The Garden Restaurant (casual alfresco dining, Lodhi Road, Opp. Mausam Bhavan).

Town Hall is a popular lunch and dinner spot, with a varied menu and lots of seating, including a rooftop terrace and bar. It’s packed on Friday and Saturday nights so book in advance (60-61, Middle Lane, Khan Market).

For great chaat (indian savoury snacks, typically served at roadside stalls), head to Bengali market - though for cleaner, safer chaat find a Haldiram’s.

Lastly, as recommended by a friend of mine (and Delhite), “If you’re stomach is feeling brave, eat at Karim’s - it’s an institution,” (serves a range of traditional Mughlai dishes, Jama Masjid, Gali Kababian, Old Delhi).

Shahpur Jat.

Shop Khan Market is a popular expat haunt, great for an easy afternoon of shopping with lots of little restaurants and cafes. For homeware and fashion, try Good Earth (beautiful designs but high prices) and Fab India (a great range of cheaper Indian-style cotton casual wear and home furnishings); designers Anita Dongre and Ritu Kumar also have stores here; for jewellery try Amrapali. The market is closed on Sunday.

Elsewhere, Ahujasons in Karol Market is great for shawls. The urban villages of Hauz Khas and Shahpur Jat are packed full of emerging local designers and hip boutiques.

Preeti Mohan in Shahpur Jat is particularly good for fashion and costume jewellery.

Do To the north of the territory lies Old Delhi.

Founded by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1639, this walled city served as the capital of the Mughal Empire until 1857, when the rule of the East India Company was transferred to the Crown in the person of Queen Victoria.

Old Delhi is a must-see but be prepared - it is chaotic. A good way to explore is to do a heritage walk (look online for options) or a HOHO (hop on, hop off) bus tour, introduced by Delhi Tourism for visitors who wish to tour the city in a single day. Sights include the imposing Red Fort - the main residence of the emperors

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The Lodhi.

of the Mughal dynasty for nearly 200 years; the Jama Masjid - one of India’s largest mosques, whose courtyard accommodates 25,000 people; and Chandni Chowk, a vibrant crowded bazaar filled with food carts, sweets shops and spice stalls. Hire a rickshaw wala to take you around the streets of Chandni Chowk, which are too narrow for cars. Prices are around INR 200 per hour (the rickshaw takes two people), plus tip.

Then head south, via Connaught Place and India Gate for a walk around the famed Lodi Gardens and down towards Qtub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb (if you feel peckish, try nearby Lavaash by Saby or Olive Bar & Kitchen).

Stay Centrally located at the edge of Lutyen’s Delhi, The Lodhi is a seven-acre urban oasis. It’s close to Khan market, the Lodi Gardens and within easy driving distance of other major sights. The facilities are fantastic and unique for a hotel in

central Delhi: there’s a 24-hour gym, 50-metre swimming pool, yoga and pilates studio, allweather tennis courts, squash courts, hammam rooms and spa, a boutique, a great value salon and two restaurants: On The Waterfront (Pan Asia, Middle Eastern and European) and Elan (international). The bar downstairs has live music in the evenings. Aside from the main pool, most rooms (at 1,350 sq.ft. they are more like suites) have their own private heated plunge pools.

Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, Delhi Golf Course and Humayun's Tomb from the higher floors.

Rates start at INR 24,000 (plus 25.25% tax) per night for a Lodhi Room, including breakfast. For reservations, email reservations@thelodhi.com, thelodhi.com.

The Lodhi is also part of the Mr & Mrs Smith portfolio of boutique hotels - book online at www.mrandmrssmith.com

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Disposal charges

zim city

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o promote recycling it is not enough to charge more for waste – the Government must enable efficient disposal, collection and enforcement against fly tipping and landfilling.

In April, the charges for disposal of construction waste were raised by the Environmental Protection Department. Landfill charges rose from $125 to $200 per tonne; the sorting charge will increase from $100 to $175 per tonne. The $25 difference is to encourage sorting and recovery of recyclables. The objective of the increase is cost recovery. The construction industry will incur an extra cost of $640 million per year as a result.

This is tiny when compared to the overall business volume so I do not expect it to reduce the volume of construction waste. What it will do is provide another incentive for fly tipping and land filling - there is no sight on additional resources or legislative amendments for enforcement teams to combat either of these issues more effectively. Plans are underway to mandate the use of a global positioning system (GPS) on construction waste collection vehicles, but is this enough to combat the illegal disposal of construction waste?

It is hard to see how the GPS will stop landfilling. Dumping inert waste on agricultural and conservation land is a development method. It can only be stopped by requiring landowners first to obtain a permit or certificate of exemption. Failing that, they should be held responsible for reinstatement prior to any other development on their land. And if they fail to do so within a time limit, the Government must have the right to enter the land and register the cost of reinstatement against the lease.

The only landfilling that should be permitted at all times is when people deposit soil, defined clearly as organic matter, to support vegetation - up to a maximum height of 1.2 metres.

Much of the fly-tipping in Hong Kong is renovation waste, small volumes of construction waste, old furniture and fittings. These are

transported in vans and small goods vehicles. From my observation, contractors just want to go home after a day of hard work, and can’t be bothered to drive to the remote landfills and transfer stations.

Government should enable the renovators, their staff and contractors to go and see their kids by setting up easily accessible collection points for small volumes of construction waste.

Separately, the Government is preparing to charge for municipal waste via building managers and to charge consumers directly with special bags. Unless the logistics of waste handling is better handled and strong enforcement measures are in place, this will certainly result in fly tipping of household waste – whether to avoid the charges, or because someone ran out of bags.

For some misplaced privacy reason, the Government does not plan on opening ‘lost’ bags of waste to look for envelopes with addresses or other indicators. But the real solution lies in making it efficient for people to cleanse recyclables and dispose of them separately (in boxes or transparent bags) for sorting. The focus should be on enabling the economy of cleaners, scavengers and processors with spaces for sorting and stockpiling so they can work efficiently to retrieve value from waste.

Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, a Southern District Councillor and the co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks alliance.

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Horoscopes

hong kong horoscopes

AQUARIUS Jan 21–Feb 19

PISCES Feb 20–Mar 20

ARIES Mar 21–Apr 20

TAURUS Apr 21–May 21

“Why do birds suddenly appear / Every time you are near?” You’re probably standing in the middle of Prince Edward’s Bird Garden, Aquarius. Along this street the old men of the city parade their prized songbirds in ornate cages.

Tell me, Aquarius: Would you rather be a dowdy pigeon in the dingy rafters of the city, or an impeccable songbird in a cage? What frames of reference keep you content?

Hong Kong’s happy hours are numerous, and it’s hard to find the best. But just as you’ve found a bar you like, with prices you can accept – rents go up, and so does the cost of your drink. A lesson in ruthless capitalism? No. It’s a reminder that the happy hour doesn’t matter – what matters is happiness itself. Seek it out, and every hour’s a happy hour. Even on Wyndham Street.

The last time I went to karaoke, everyone queued up new songs I’d never heard of before. In the past, I’d complain and skip through them to get my tunes faster.

These days, I just go with the flow. After all, you can learn a lot from exposure to things you didn’t know – even if it’s just about the terrible state of 2010s hip-hop.

The Hong Kong habit of donning face masks arose during SARS, as a protection against the deadly virus.

But these days, they’re a courtesy: a way to show your co-workers that you’re sick and don’t want to pass it on. What other courtesies can you show your coworkers, Taurus? It needn’t be something huge, but a little gesture will always generate a smile – even if it’s hidden under a face mask.

LEO Jul 23–Aug 22

VIRGO Aug 23–Sep 23

LIBRA Sep 24–Oct 23

SCORPIO Oct 24–Nov 22

We all have our dark days.

Days when everything seems wrong. In those troubled times, it’s only right that as a Leo you should summon up the Lion Rock Spirit: the indomitable force that has kept Hong Kong going since time immemorial. Lion Rock watches over Hong Kong, keeping us safe and strong.

You can draw on it, Leo, and take strength from it as generations of Hongkongers have before you.

This month, Virgo, I want you to ask a yourself the following question: “Am I a pineapple bun, or a sausage bun?” With pineapple buns, a crusty exterior hides a sweet, softness within. Sausage buns, on the other hand, are soft outside but a stronger core runs through them. Know your place in the bakery of life, and everything will fall into place.

Libra, you’re all about balance. Have you been stand-up paddleboarding recently? Every time I’ve tried it, I’ve fallen into the sea in short order. I bet you’d be better at it than I am: after all, when you find your equilibrium you’re totally capable. But once you do, try paddling while standing on one leg. If you don’t keep challenging yourself, that equilibrium becomes complacency.

Just after giving birth, Hong Kong mothers are advised to eat pig’s trotters slow-cooked in ginger and black vinegar. I may not be post-partum myself, but I confess to loving this dish.

Thankfully, I know that there are other Hongkongers who share my tastes. What do you love, despite it seeming unusual? Let the world know: I bet you you’re not alone.

As transmitted to Adam White, writer, editor and occasional soothsayer.

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GEMINI May 22–Jun 21

CANCER Jun 22–Jul 22

Sometimes, one feels like a wilted bit of lettuce sitting at the back of the fridge, waiting to be thrown out. But the truth is that you don’t need to be discarded. Think of the dai pai dong, where many ingredients are thrown into a wok and pure magic comes out the other end. Gemini, you’re just a stir-fry ingredient waiting for others to come along. You won’t have to wait long.

I was getting a suit tailored recently. It’s an experience I highly recommend: There’s something special about getting a piece of clothing made to fit your body exactly. The only problem, of course – now I need to stay this size, or I’ll have to head back to the tailor for alterations. But that’s fine, Cancer. Sometimes, alterations have to be made.

There’s no reason to get too hung up about it.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23–Dec 21

CAPRICORN Dec 22–Jan 20

The dried seafood shops of Sheung Wan and Sai Ying Pun exude an odour some would describe as “pungent”. But it’s a smell that screams “Hong Kong” to me. What smells do you tie to the city, Sagittarius? Is it the fragrance rising from a dim sum steamer? The diesel fumes of the Star Ferry? Find what makes your memories powerful, and you’ll discover what matters to you.

Wander down Apliu Street and you’ll come across a flea market stuffed full of electronics, from battered old cameras to aging VCR machines and rusty power tools. That old saying seems true: “one man’s trash is another’s man’s treasure”. But in this sea of old TV remotes, what turns you on, Capricorn?

What discarded trash is actually gold to you?

Woof!

pets

Eating, grass, great walks, & poop!

Walkies with Nicola Newbery, Chairwoman of Friends of Hoi Ha.

Ask a vet...

Pets Central’s veterinarian Dr. Pauline Taylor answers your questions.

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here is no visitor parking in Hoi Ha, apart from a 3-berth coach park. As dogs aren’t allowed on the minibus (unless it’s a small dog in a travel bag), the only options are to hire a taxi or, if there are a few of you, a private minibus for your own use.

Ask the taxi to drop you off beside the public toilets and walk down the steep path which leads to the toilets. Turn right, heading towards the village and after 60 paces look for a path that cuts across the valley floor. You will see a well-trodden path between bushes on your left, follow that track which will bring you out into a clearing by a magnificent Banyan tree.

Your path now turns left and hugs the coastline. You will see volcanic boulders and associate mangroves on your right, and a marsh on your left. The path reaches a stream that flows into the sea.

Once you have crossed the stream, keep walking until you reach the main Hoi Ha Stream. Now you have a choice. If it is a weekday, you can take your dogs across the stream by the Water Banyans, and follow the path into Hoi Ha Marine Park.

The beach you will reach is little frequented by people and your dogs can run around, roll in the sand and go for a swim.

(However, no dogs are allowed on the Marine Park beaches on public holidays, or weekends between 10:30am-5pm). In which case, do not cross the stream. Instead, turn left and follow the path, with the stream on your right, through three open areas where your dogs can run around.

In the last field, turn left into the forest and cross the valley floor and the smaller stream you saw earlier at the marsh.

Cross the stream and pick your way up a steep bank. You are heading for a low-hanging branch that you can hold on to but remember to duck your head as you pass underneath. Bear left and the path emerges from the forest at the public toilets.

This is an opportunity to fill your dogs’ portable water bowl with fresh water.

You have, in effect walked in a circle. You can now turn left and walk back up onto the Hoi Ha Road and either take a taxi home or walk into the village for lunch at one of the restaurants.

Q: “Is my dog depressed?”

A: There is a debate about whether the term “depression” should be used for non-humans. That said, I think it is right to apply signs seen in human depression to animals provided they are assessed while looking at the animal’s overall behaviour. Signs include withdrawal from normal things (walks, play), altered sleep-wake patterns and loss of interest in things they used to like to do, such as eating. Ongoing changes like these should be assessed by your vet in a physical examination. If your dog is physiologically well, “triggers” of depressed behaviour can be discussed, and treatment options.

Remember, lots of cuddles will never go wrong!

Q: “My dog won’t let me cut his toenails and they’re starting to get long. What can I do?”

A: Some dogs have sensitive feet and strongly dislike them being touched, never mind having their nails cut. The best thing is to train all pups to be comfortable with feet handling and nail trimming by introducing them early on to nail clippers and the noise they make. Reward him or her for allowing handlers to touch and clip the nails.

Regular walking and playing with dogs on hard surfaces helps to wear nails down naturally. Failing this, if nails really are long some dogs may require sedation for a trim.

Q: “My dog keeps chewing on my daughter’s shoes.

How do I get him to stop?”

A: Ask your daughter to put her shoes out of reach of your dog at all times! Dogs smell roughly 200-300,000 times more than humans - so your daughter’s shoes probably release a large amount of delicious ‘smells’.

This means that any shoes in the vicinity of a dog are’ fair game’ to be selected for a chew. Your dog doesn’t really understand that your daughter’s shoes are out of bounds so don’t blame the dog, train your daughter!

Hoi Ha

by, staff writers 58 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

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or Hong Kong gardeners the month of May sees the beginning of summer and the start of the typhoon season.

Rainfall increases greatly, and the warm weather will turn hot. The average low and high temperatures are 24 °C (75 °F) and 31 °C (87 °F).

Lay out a short sleeved cotton shirt and light cotton trousers fixed with suspenders or leather belt. Shorts, while the fashion for some Europeans, are not acceptable in Hong Kong society.

They are for the playing fields, not the garden.

Right then, to work: In May, vegetable seeds of the following may be sown:– Mustard and Cress, French beans, cucumber and Lettuce.

Chinese Spinach can be sown from now until October. It is a practice in some Hong Kong gardens to transplant the seedlings but I find this unnecessary provided the soil is well manured.

Sweet corn is another easy vegetable to grow in May. Sow in rows two feet apart, and one foot between the seeds, in ground that has been liberally manured.

For flowers the following seeds should be sown in May: Chinese balsam, Ipomoea Quamoclit, and Gynadropsis pentaphylla.

I am asked how often a certain plant should be watered. The only answer that can be given is “as often as it needs”.

Here is all you need to know about watering plants. Give it a good soaking.

See that it gets sufficient water to permeate all the soil in the pot. This can easily be done if the plant has been potten properly by noticing whether the water runs out the bottom of the pot. If it does, then the plant has had enough. (This does not apply to plants which have become thoroughly dry in their pots. With such cases, stand the pot in a bucket of water until the soil has become saturated.)

Never water by dribble, as this causes the plants to make roots on the surface, whilst those deeper in the soil die and the whole plant becomes stunted and ultimately perishes. Always use a rose head watering can as this prevents soil from being washed out from the pots.

By William James Tutcher F.L.S (1867-1920) Superintendent of Hong Kong Botanical Gardens.

Paraphrased from his seminal 1906 work Gardening for Hong Kong.

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The pets are next

stephen says...

Pets, rescuing hikers, digital radio, and more by, Stephen Vines.

T

he campaign against enjoyment reaches new highs The government department responsible for limiting enjoyment, otherwise known as the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, has found another target – pets.

Its many officers have been buzzing around Sai Kung town warning restaurateurs and their patrons - in premises where they have yet to shutdown outside seating - that the presence of pets in these areas will result in instant prosecution. Apparently this has something to do with health and safety.

As matters stood, particularly in Sai Kung’s main square, there was a glorious medley of adults, kids and their pets sitting around having a good time. The bureaucrats, the same people who take years to make a decision about outside seating, are understandably distressed at the idea of people enjoying themselves and have thus announced this latest clampdown.

If only people would gravitate to the major shopping malls and sit in planet-threatening air conditioning, life would be far better.

Questions over a rescue News that firefighter Yau Siu-ming lost his life while helping to rescue two hikers in the Ma On Shan Country Park raises a number of questions, besides the obvious need to send commiserations to those who were closest to him. First, is the Fire Service properly equipped for rescues of this kind? Secondly, are people who encounter difficulties when hiking in these areas taking a sufficient amount of responsibility for their activities, raising the question of how ready they should be to call out the emergency services when faced with a problem.

I am not saying that in this instance the hikers were being irresponsible, but I gather that there have been a number of instances where the call for rescue was less than justified.

Listen out for poor reception Another communications blow has been delivered to Sai Kung residents by the decision to scrap digital radio broadcasts. Due to the extreme weakness of the analogue signal over large parts of this area, the only realistic way of comfortably listening to local broadcasts was offered by digital radios. That option has now

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been closed off because of the government’s failed broadcasting policy, indeed the SAR is the only jurisdiction in the world that has failed to make a success of digital broadcasting.

The problem originated some years ago, apparently at the Mainland’s request, when the analogue signal was made weaker to make Hong Kong radio less accessible to people across the border. There has never been official confirmation but I have it on the authority of someone, now retired, who had sight of this order. The chance of the analogue signal being boosted is therefore rather slight and the only alternative will be to use Internet radio in places like Sai Kung; this is far from ideal.

Trouble for Pak Sha O The continuing threat that hovers over the fate of Pak Sha O village is steadily moving further in the wrong direction following a decision by the Town Planning Board to recommend amendments to the draft Outline Zoning Plan for this area (and parts of the Hoi Ha Marine Park).

The lands in question are in the hands of Xinhau Book Company, which is hoping to build some 30 houses. The TPB continues to frame this develop as being in the interests of housing so called indigenous villagers, presumably the same people who have already sold the land. This is not the end of the story because the changed designation of the land still needs other permissions for building but, frankly, this is a big setback.

Who knew water was wet?

Which genius in the Drainage Services Department decided it was a good idea to spend taxpayers’ money sending households a leaflet informing us that heavy rainfall can result in flooding? It also, among other things, tells us that mixing electricity with water is dangerous. I am now waiting for them to put out a leaflet telling us that when traffic is heavy there will be congestion. More leaflets please…

Stephen Vines is a journalist, broadcaster and entrepreneur.

He is the former editor of the Eastern Express and Southeast Asia correspondent for The Observer.

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