Southside Family Guide 2017

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WHERE TO PLAY, WHERE TO EAT, WHAT TO DO

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Family Guide 2017

4 Map

Here be Southside.

6 Outdoors

Beaches, junk boats, fun family days out and more!

22 Activities

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Art, drama, sport and other classes for kids, plus stuff for grown ups.

30 Parties

Become the host with the most with these helpful party ideas.

32 Food

The best restaurants, caterers, food delivery companies and spots for special occasions.

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42 Education

Your guide to Southside schools and afterschool tuition.

48 Shopping

Interiors, fashion, toys and more.

52 Health and beauty

Look good, feel good.

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56 Clubs

Everything you need to know about Southside’s private membership clubs.

62 Marketplace

Cool stuff to buy and do.

64 Useful numbers

Essential local contacts.

p.56 Southside Family Guide | 1

Editor’s letter

who’s in charge?

Publisher Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk

Editorial editorial@fastmedia.com.hk Editor-in-Chief Shreena Patel

Contributing Editor Carolynne Dear

Senior Staff Writer Eric Ho

Senior Consulting Editor Adele Brunner

Design cindy@fastmedia.com.hk Design Manager Cindy Suen

Graphic Designer Anna Schulteisz

Sales & Marketing ads@fastmedia.com.hk Sales & Digital Marketing Manager

Sales Director Oliver Simons

Charmaine Mirandilla

Sales & Marketing Executive Bonnie Li

Sales and Marketing Executive Kiran Hiranandani

Sales & Marketing Executive Maria Jones

Think of Southside and images of sandy beaches, sparkling seas and endless blue skies will invariably spring to mind. It is all that and so much more so we've compiled a guide celebrating Southside and everything it has to offer.

Whether you've been a staunch Southsider for years, are a newcomer to the area or are just passing through, we hope you'll find inspiring ideas to get out there, explore, and enjoy some of the best places and activities that Hong Kong has to offer.

Because the Southside really does have something for everyone: outdoor action for adventure hounds (page 18), arts and crafts for creative kids (page 22), brunches and lunches for lazy weekends (page 32) and all kinds of options for fun days out on land (page 14) or at sea (page 8).

On a more practical side, the burgeoning family-oriented community has only meant an improvement in health and fitness services (page 52), supermarkets (page 51), schools (page 42) and shops (page 48) so check out our listings for all your needs.

Of course it rains on Southside, and I know it has its fair share of grey days and traffic jams but to me this part of Hong Kong always feels like one long, summer holiday.

What's not to love?

PA to the Publisher amanda@fastmedia.com.hk PA to the Publisher Amanda Chia

Contributors

Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Fast Media Ltd, LG1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queens Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong

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

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Ralph Kiggell Cover artist of the Southside family guide. After graduating in Chinese studies, Ralph worked in China and Hong Kong, before moving to Japan to train as a woodblock printer.

He likes to depict Hong Kong’s hills and coastline, in particular Southside’s stunning bays.

Check out his work at www.ralphkiggell.com

Lorette E. Roberts Lorette's dragon sketches adorn our cover. Lorette lives in the UK, but was based in Hong Kong for many years and is still a regular visitor. She began her career as a botanical artist. You can see more of Lorette’s Southside illustrations in her book, Sketches of the Southside, available from www.blacksmithbooks.com

Graham Uden The man behind our aerial photos. In Asia since 1992, Graham has been roughed up by ex-President Clinton’s bodyguards, held up by Khmer Rouge soldiers and holed up in Baghdad. These days he prefers to be hung out of a great many helicopters.

Thanks to: Kristy Wong, Hazel Yin Tong, Erlina Widyawati, Belinda Bamford, Carmen Ng

Southside Family Guide | 3

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Illustrator by Carmen Ng

Southside Family Guide | 5

outdoors

Beaches Where to spend those lazy summer days.

Relaxing at Repulse Bay.

Deep Water Bay Home to the oldest golf club in Hong Kong and, according to Forbes, the wealthiest neighbourhood on earth. The beach has changing rooms, shower facilities and barbecue pits.

How to get there: Take bus 6A, 6X or 260 from Central Exchange Square.

Repulse Bay One of Southside’s most popular beaches. It is actually artificial - the original sand was taken to fill sandbags during WW2. Along the beach, the pulse shopping centre houses a range of shops and restaurants with ocean views. Or head slightly further inland to the glamorous Repulse Bay Arcade. The beach itself has changing rooms, shower facilities, toilets, a playground and beach volleyball court.

How to get there: Take bus 6, 6A, 6X or 260 from Central Exchange Square. Buses 63, 65, 73 and 973 also stop here, as well as green minibuses 52 and 40.

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Middle Bay Quieter and more secluded than Repulse Bay beach. Changing facilities, barbecue areas and fast food kiosks are all located along the beach.

How to get there: A 15-minute walk along South Bay Road from Repulse Bay. South Bay The perfect beach to escape the crowds. Not directly accessible by public transport but has changing and shower facilities, a food kiosk and barbecue pits.

How to get there: Walk 1.4km, following South Bay Road from Repulse Bay. Alternatively, grab a taxi and be there in five minutes.

Chung Hom Kok Another more secluded option for beachgoers and picnickers, this beach is surrounded by lush vegetation. A small kiosk sells drinks and snacks as well as parasol hire.

How to get there: Take bus 63 from North Point Ferry pier or take a short taxi ride from Stanley town.

In Big Wave Bay, I go to Ho Lok (Coca-Cola) shop. It has good food, lockers, warm showers, lots of boards and wetsuits, and a good surfer vibe. You can rent a board there for $50 per day.

Reade r's tip

Antony Dickson, Founder, Surfing Hong Kong.

outdoors

Places to take your pooch Cyberport Waterfront park A popular area amongst families and dog-owners right on the waterfront - looking out towards Lamma Island - with a nearby coffee shop and toilet facilities.

On Christmas day, while the turkey is cooking, we take the children and dogs to Cyberport Park to run around and build up an appetite.

Reade r's tip

Sioban Guilfoyle, Pok Fu Lam

Stanley St Stephen’s Beach Stanley’s “other” beach is a 15-minute walk from Stanley Market towards the military cemetery. Ideal for a more secluded afternoon on the beach, the cove is sheltered by the surrounding trees and offers a picturesque view. St Stephen’s Beach Watersports Centre runs public training courses and fun days and rents out kayaks, dinghies and windsurfers at bargain rates.

How to get there: From Stanley bus terminus it’s a 15-minute walk along Wong Ma Kok Road, past St Stephen’s College.

Stanley Main Beach A five-minute walk from Stanley Market on the eastern side of Stanley peninsula, this narrow beach has nice sand and is popular for watersports. A watersports centre - where you can rent equipment - and the Hong Kong Sea School are located at the southern end of the beach.

How to get there: Take bus 6, 6A, 6X or 260 to Stanley and walk from the bus terminus.

Hairpin Beach Separated from Stanley Main Beach by a large BBQ area on a rocky headland. Swimming is not allowed here, but you will find showers, toilets and barbecue pits.

How to get there: Take bus 6, 6A, 6X or 260 from Central Exchange Square.

Rocky Bay Strewn with large boulders. Swimming is not advised as there are no lifeguard facilities, but Rocky Bay is a popular spot for photography fans and couples taking their wedding photos.

How to get there: Take bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan bus terminus or 309 from Central Exchange Square.

Turtle Cove To the east of Stanley and a favourite for junks, Turtle Cove is removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll find showers, toilets, barbecue pits and a playground.

How to get there: If you’re not junking over, take bus 14 from Sai Wan Ho MTR Station and get off just after the Tai Tam Reservoir, or hop on green minibus 16M. Watch out for the stairs that lead down to the beach.

Shek O Easy and convenient, with golden sand, an array of beachside cafés and restaurants, shower facilities and barbecue pits. Summer weekends and public holidays get very busy, so get there early to grab a spot. For refreshments, Cococabana - located right on the beach serves delicious Mediterranean food and counts Coldplay frontman Chris Martin amongst its clientele. For a more relaxed vibe, Ben’s Back Beach Bar is a local favourite.

How to get there: Take bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan bus terminus or 309 from Central Exchange Square. The carpark has over 100 spaces.

Tai Tam Country Park Tai Tam Country Park occupies a whopping one fifth of Hong Kong Island. With that much space, it’s a great place for both you and your dog to get some fresh air and exercise. There’s also a Fusion at Parkview where you can pick up treats.

The Peak For a gentle stroll, try the 2.8km Lugard Road loop which offers 360-degree views of Hong Kong Island - be warned, it gets crowded at weekends. For something steeper, walk up to The Peak from Pok Fu Lam reservoir. For quieter surroundings, head to Victoria Peak Garden, a 15-minute walk from the Peak Galleria up Mount Austin Road.

Big Wave Bay The birthplace of Hong Kong’s surf scene. It’s smaller than neighbouring Shek O but still easily accessible by road, with a café, showers, toilet facilities, barbecue pits and car park. Go out in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

How to get there: Take bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan and alight at the junction of Shek O Road and Big Wave Bay Road. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the beach. Or hike there via the Dragon’s Back.

For more information on the beaches and facilities, including watersports centres and lifeguard services, visit www.lcsd.gov.hk.

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outdoors

Junk Boating Don't forget your shades and sunblock.

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Photo by Michelangelo Luxury Junk

outdoors

Southside Family Guide | 9

Photo by Michelangelo Luxury Junk

outdoors

Michelangelo Be the envy of all you survey aboard the stylish Michelangelo, a meticulously restored 80ft luxury junk. All curved lines, sleek mahogany panelling and shiny brass, it features gorgeous teak sun decks with loungers (and we’re not talking waterproof mats on the deck, but proper sunbeds), cosy sofas in the chic lounge, fully equipped galley, formal dining room, and multizone air conditioning. Up to 59 guests can party by day, its sumptuous cabins can sleep up to nine, or staff can arrange a formal dinner for up to 12. From $24,000 for four hours in Central; from $32,000 from Sai Kung. 6621 1691, www.luxuryjunk.com.hk.

Aqua Luna Soak up the views aboard one of Hong Kong’s few remaining red-sail Chinese junk boats. Aqua Luna operates cruises round Victoria Harbour throughout the week and afternoon cruises to Stanley at the weekend.

Private charters start at $10,000 per hour -

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plus a 10 percent service charge - and can accommodate up to 80 people (a minimum charge may apply, rates increase after 5pm).

Departures are from the public piers at Victoria Harbour. For details, call 2116 8821 or visit www.aqualuna.com.hk.

Island Junks Each teak junk can accommodate up to 50 guests. Add-on services include Thai massages, sea kayaks and snorkels. Food and drink packages are available and pick-up and drop-off locations are flexible. Prices start at $350 per adult and $200 per child (four to 12 years) for a full day

boat-only cruise (a minimum charge applies).

The Aberdeen-to-Stanley cruise costs $630 per adult and $330 per child and includes lunch at either Lamma Island or Po Toi Island and freeflow drinks on board. A minimum of 10 adults applies. For details, call 2877 5222 or visit www.islandjunks.com.hk.

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outdoors Hello Hong Kong Offers day and evening charters, plus food tours, overnight eco adventures, deep sea fishing and party junks. The largest boat Michelangelo - fits up to 55 people. Most boats have a pick-up point in Southside. Prices start at $7,700 for a six-hour (day) or four-hour (evening) charter for up to 30 people. Food and drink packages and watersports add-ons are available. Book online at www.hellohongkong.com.hk, 9704 4108.

Hong Kong Junks All three teak junks were built in Aberdeen Harbour. The largest accommodates up to 40 people. Get picked up in Aberdeen or Central and stay on Southside or head further afield to Clearwater Bay. Fully catered and boat only options available, as well as water sports, DJs, face painting and photographers. Prices start at $200 per person. www.hongkongjunks.com.hk, 2840 1588.

Hong Kong Yachting Prices for a day charter (10.30am-5.30pm) start at $8,500 for the Dragon which can hold up to 30 people. For the wow factor, the Jungle Jane and Tarzan flagship cruisers come with extra toys but are only available for charter with food and drink packages. The company also has two sailing yachts and a catamaran. 2526 0151, www.hongkongyachting.com.

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Jaspas Party Junks Departures from Sai Kung and Causeway Bay. Prices start at $9,800 for a daytime junk (10.30am-5.30pm) for up to 40 people, including food and a free-flow beverage package. Book online at www.casteloconcepts.com or call 2792 6001.

Lazy Days Lazy Days’ fleet includes five sleek, modern cruisers and a luxury junk. Toys for hire include a giant inflatable slide. You can customise your experience by adding on spa and nail treatments, massages or wakeboarding lessons. Or if you’ve got little ones in tow, request an infant paddling pool, bumper mat or ball pen. ​Fully catered trips start from $940 per person and boat-only hire from $15,000.

You’ll find “bikini-friendly”, paleo and full vegetarian menus in addition to the usual roast- or burger-centric options. www.lazydays.com.hk, 3488 1534.

Sea Lagoon Hire a junk off peak from $5,500 ($8,000 during peak season). Add on a speedboat for an extra $3,500. Junk boats hold a maximum of 30 people; cruisers are more expensive ($25,000$30,000) but can hold up to 50 people. www.sealagoon.com, 2165 4196.

Junk food Shamrock Aberdeen’s Shamrock has a wide-ranging menu - from Thai cuisine to sausage rolls - and will cater for all occasions, including junks. Minimum food order of $2,800 (excluding delivery). Download the online menu to create your own package at www.shamrock.com.hk, 2547 8155.

Chicken on the Run Free-range rotisserie chicken and salads.

The 12-person junk set costs $1,590 and includes three salt-and-pepper rotisserie chickens, two salad trays, bread rolls and brownies. www.chickenontherun.com, 2537 4563.

Monsieur Chatté For the Francophiles. Junk catering packages start at $150 per person.

The basic menu includes grated carrots, tuna rice salad, Quiche Lorraine, roast chicken, brie, fresh bread and pound cake. www.mrchatte.com.hk, 3105 8077.

outdoors Vikings Charter Offers catered and non-catered junks for up to 30 guests. Pick-up points include Causeway Bay, Central and Aberdeen. Additional speedboats for banana boating, water-skiing and wakeboarding can be requested. 2814 9899, www.vikingscharters.com.hk.

Delicious HK The all-inclusive package costs $650 per head for a seven-hour day cruise, including a lunch buffet, snacks and open bar (minimum of 25 people). Get picked up anywhere on Hong Kong Island with access to a public pier. Additional speedboat service for the day costs $3,600 for three hours of wakeboarding, including a banana boat. www.delicious-hk.com, 2559 0144.

Where to drop anchor Show off South Bay Clearwater Bay Nam Fung Wan (Millionaire's Beach)

Get away from it all Chung Hom Kok Long Ke Wan, Sai Kung Soko Islands

Beauty spot Tai Long Wan, Lantau The Ninepin group Tai Long Sai Wan

Seafood specials Po Toi Island Sok Kwu Wan, Lamma Island High Island, Sai Kung

Boat And Boating Choose from a selection of yachts. The weekday package for a luxury yacht with two hours of wakeboarding for 25 people is $12,000. Sail to either Lamma Island or South Bay. Additional catering available on request. www.boatandboating.com, 2154 1320.

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outdoors

Family fun days Our favourite days out for parents and kids.

Stanley Stanley is a wonderful place to visit at the weekend. Known for its lively market, Stanley is also home to an array of interesting places to explore, including Murray House (built in Central and relocated to Stanley brick by brick), the old Stanley Police Station (home to a famous tiger skin) and a correctional services museum.

Stroll along the seaside promenade and stop at one of the many bars, cafĂŠs and restaurants for a spot of grub and people-watching, or get an ice cream from the van on the roundabout and go for a wander around Blake Pier and Ma Hang Park.

We love Spiaggia.

It’s our local Stanley haunt. We have been visiting Chef Rudolf since we moved to Hong Kong over six years ago and feel very much at home there.

Reade r's tip

Maria Bizri, Owner, Pomegranate Kitchen Wong Nai Chung Reservoir Park The main attraction here is the pedal boat kiosk where you can rent two- and four-seater pedal boats and rowing boats by the hour. Lifejackets are provided free of charge. You can buy bread at the kiosk to feed the fish and terrapins.

The hourly cost to hire a four-seater pedal boat is $100 (weekdays) and $120 (weekends and public holidays). A two-seater pedal boat costs $20 less. Open daily, 9am-6pm. Tai Tam Reservoir Road (off Wong Nai Chung Gap Road), 2555 0103. Take a taxi or get bus 6 or 61 from Central Exchange Square Terminus, alight at Wong Nai Chung Gap and walk for five minutes towards Parkview. The lake is on your right.

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The Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships.

outdoors

Southside annual events

The Beach 5s.

Borrelli Walsh Beach 5s The Beach 5s usually takes place at the beginning of April and consists of two days of fun and games at Repulse Bay beach.

The staple line up of men’s and women’s rugby, netball and dodgeball was recently joined by Neymar Jr’s Five - a five-a-side tournament inspired by street football with one special rule: each time you score, the opposition loses a player. Aside from the sporting action, you can enjoy free family entertainment, a live DJ, food, drink and shopping from an array of lifestyle brands. Free admission. www.beach5shk.com.

Hong Kong Rugby Sevens Not in the Southside, but we couldn’t leave out Hong Kong’s biggest party. Spread out over three days in April, it offers beer, singing, dodgy dancing and world-class rugby action. For those hoping to spectate from the South Stand, don’t forget your costume. Hong Kong Stadium, So Kon Po, Causeway Bay, www.hksevens.com.

Le French May This annual celebration of French culture takes place throughout Asia, and is well-loved in the Southside, which is known for its large French community. For more details, visit www.frenchmay.com.

Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships Watch over 200 local and international teams compete to the beat of the drum in this

world-famous set of races. Legend has it that the festival dates back to when old man Qu Yuan, an official disillusioned with his country's government, drowned himself in protest by jumping in the river. The locals rushed to the site in long boats, banging drums to scare away anything that might harm Qu Yuan, but they were too late. This year’s races take place on May 30 at Stanley Main Beach, 8am-6pm. It’s always hot and crowded but the atmosphere is terrific! www.dragonboat.org.hk.

Mid-Autumn Festival Celebrate the full moon with coloured lanterns and glow sticks on Repulse Bay Beach.

Shek O Cantonese Opera Festival Takes place each year towards the end of October. A huge bamboo theatre is erected in the car park.

The Clean Half Extreme Marathon Swim This 15km open-water swimming event takes place in the second half of the year. Swim as a team or go solo if you can. The race starts at Stanley Main Beach and finishes at Deep Water Bay. Register at openwaterasia.com.

Repulse Bay Christmas Fair A favourite amongst the city’s Christmas fairs. Head there with the family for a fun day of shopping for Christmas decorations, trinkets and other great gifts. www.therepulsebay.com.

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Photo by Laszlo Ilyes

outdoors

Ocean Park Rollercoasters, marine conservation, wildlife enclosures and pandas. Take the cable car to The Summit for panoramic views of the park, the sea and Southside, or hop on board the Ocean Express. Once there, adrenaline junkies are spoilt for choice - head to Thrill Mountain to ride the Whirly Bird and the Hair Raiser roller coaster, or brave The Rapids of the Rainforest.

For a break from the rides, visit the Panda Enclosure and say hello to giant pandas Ying Ying and Le Le. We love the Grand Aquarium, home to 400 species of fish, sharks and other sea critters. Single entry tickets to the park are currently $438 for adults (over 12 years) and

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$219 for children aged three to 11. Families may visit as many times as they like during the year with the SmartFun Annual pass (from $840 for adults, $420 for children). Opening in 2018, Water World at Ocean Park will feature 27 attractions, including two large wave pools, water slides, an infinity pool, an indoor lazy river and Hong Kong’s first-ever "surf rider". Watch this space! Carparking available or take the MTR to Ocean Park station. Ocean Park Road, Ocean Park, Aberdeen, www.oceanpark.com.hk, 3923 2323.

Dragon’s Back Hike Section 8 of the Hong Kong Trail follows the ridge from Wan Cham Shan to Shek O Peak, with fabulous views and a chance to end the walk with a dip and a meal in Shek O. A great one for trail runners, visitors, kids and dogs alike.

Photo by Graham Uden

Cheung Chau Each May, thousands of people flock to this small island for one of Hong Kong’s quirkier traditions, the five-day Cheung Chau bun festival. While it’s entertaining to watch the race up the bun towers and the accompanying parade with its amazing “floating” children, the island is fun to visit year-round. Visit the cave where the famous 19th-century pirate Cheung Po Tsai supposedly stashed his booty, explore the many temples, or hit the beach where you can try windsurfing. First Ferry runs a 24-hour service to Cheung Chau, departing every 30 minutes at peak times, from Central Pier 5.

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

outdoors

Museums

They're not just for rainy days and school trips. Here are our favourites.

Hong Kong Heritage Museum Permanent exhibitions include the Cantonese Opera Heritage Hall, which showcases a reconstructed bamboo theatre and items once used by famous Cantonese opera artists. The Children's Discovery Gallery features eight play zones, which transport little ones to the depths of the sea, the Mai Po Marshes, archaeological digs and a traditional New Territories village. An exhibition on Hong Kong Kung Fu legend Bruce Lee runs until 2018.

Where: 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin Contact: 2180 8188, www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk Admission: $10 standard; $5 concession; free for underfours. Free on Wednesdays Opening hours: Mon, Wed-Fri: 10am-6pm; Sun and public holidays: 10am-7pm; closed Tue (except public holidays) and the first two days of Chinese New Year.

Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum While Stanley Prison is out of bounds for members of the public, the Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum next door is not.

Formerly accommodation for married staff, the building now houses 10 galleries displaying the evolution of Hong Kong’s penal system over the last 160 years. Exhibits include prison records, two reconstructed cells and an array of gruesome equipment that was once used for corporal punishment, including a mock gallows and a rattan cane known as “the cat of nine tails”.

Where: 45 Tung Tau Wan Road, Stanley Contact: 2147 3199, www.csd.gov.hk/emuseum Admission: Free Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 10am-5pm; closed Mon and public holidays.

Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence Set in a British fort now over a century old with beautiful views of the Lei Yue Mun channel, this museum offers a fascinating insight into Hong Kong’s military past, from the Ming and Qing period, to the British colonial era and the Japanese occupation. Take the historical trail through the casemates and passageways to the sea, and explore the array of artefacts on display, including uniforms, maps, cannons, replica torpedos and guns.

Where: 175 Tung Hei Road, Shau Kei Wan Contact: 2569 1500, hk.coastaldefence.museum Admission: $10 standard; $5 concession; free for under-fours. Free on Wednesdays Opening hours: 10am-5pm daily (until 6pm from March to September), closed Thu (except public holidays) and the first two days of CNY.

3D museums These museums showcase the art of optical illusion via 3D artwork and interactive exhibits.

Road, The Peak, 2813 1686, www.trickeye.com.

Trick Eye Museum Part of a global chain first launched in South Korea.

Shop No. 1, 3/F, The Peak Galleria, 118 Peak

Hong Kong 3D Museum The first 3D museum in Hong Kong.

1/F Hilton Place, 96 Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, 2721 9720, www.hk3dm.com.hk.

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outdoors

Adventures

Photo by Kuno Mejina

From paragliding to deep sea sportfishing, Southside’s outdoor junkies are spoilt for choice.

Camping There are no official campsites on Hong Kong Island, but head slightly further afield and you are spoilt for choice. These hassle-free campsites have pre-assembled tents and plenty of activities to keep you busy. Happy camping!

Long Coast Seasports Located on one of Lantau’s longest beaches.

Choose from a basic four- or six-person tent in the private beachfront campsite or cheat and go for one of their luxury three-metre safari tents with furniture and air conditioning. There are also four guest rooms with private showers, air conditioning and wireless broadband access.

Hire lodging only or buy an activity voucher ($980-$2,045 for four people, depending on the day and season). The voucher allows use of the overnight camping facilities and can also be redeemed against rental of kayaks, bodyboards and skimboards. Surfboards, windsurfers and SUPs are also available for hire. 29 Lower Cheung Sha Beach, Lantau, 8104 6222, www.longcoast.hk.

Treasure Island Beach Club Hire a tent, a private campsite or a beachfront cabana room on Pui O beach, Lantau. Prices start at $500 per two-person tent per night and

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include a few extras like charcoal, skewers and bed rolls. Water sports equipment and lessons are available at additional cost. Finish off the day at local favourite Mavericks beach shack and restaurant. For the complete camping experience, buy a pack of s'mores for an extra $75, huddle round the campfire and toast them under the stars. Look out for the water buffalos. www.treasureislandhk.com, 2546 3543.

Tsim Bet Tsui Organic Farm Looking for something a little different? How about a stay in a Mongolian yurt? The yurts here can accommodate up to 10 people and offer spectacular views of the Mai Po marshes. The farm also has a petting zoo, a miniature train and barbecue pits. Lau Fau Shan, Yuen Long, 2472 6962.

For a full list of campsites and how to get there, visit the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department website at www.afcd.gov.hk.

outdoors Trail running To connect to trail runners and discover new trails, join the HK Trail Runners meetup group, www.meetup.com/HKTrailRunners or join the Trail Running HK Facebook group.

Beginner: "Snake Alley" aka Tsz Lo Top Lan Shan Path. A flattish contour trails path that starts off at Wong Nai Chung Reservoir Park and winds its way above Repulse Bay. Great views and not too technical. Just watch out for snakes.

Intermediate: Dragon's Back. Be prepared to meet half of Hong Kong at the weekend.

Hong Kong Trail Section 8 goes up and over the Dragon (great for views and more technical climbs), but the contour path around the side is a great, flat run if you want to build speed.

Expert: The Twins. Not much "trail" but technical and intense. Start at Parkview and finish in Stanley, or turn around when you hit the road for the infamous Double Twins.

Nic Tinworth, passionate trail runner and former Associate Editor, AsiaTrail magazine

Flyboarding Island Wake Island Wake runs lessons in wakeboarding ($850 per hour on weekdays, $900 on weekends and public holidays) and flyboarding and hoverboarding ($1,500 per hour) in Tai Tam. The Special Weekday Package for family and friends includes a three-hour session of wakeboarding, tubing, wakesurfing and family boating for six people for $2,200. To book, email

frankie@islandwake.com or call 2895 0022. ​ Flyboard HK Flyboard HK has a team of qualified instructors and offers introductory piloting courses for beginners as well as intermediate and advanced level training. A 60-minute session starts from $1,300 depending on your choice of experience (Flyboard, Hoverboard, Jetblade or Jetpack). Lessons take place in Deep Water Bay. www.flyboard.com.hk, 9761 1232.

Mountain biking Crosscountry HK Offers skills training and guided rides using its own fleet of bikes. Typically, prices start at $1,150 for the first rider with additional riders coming in at $600. www.mtbhk.com, 6300 1980.

Beginner: Tai Lam Chung Reservoir trail. The 13km loop starts at the Tai Lam Correctional Institution and gets harder towards the Top trails end, but you can leave at around the 10km mark and head to the Gold Coast for lunch.

Intermediate: start in the same park up the hill at the Route Twisk entrance, either taking the Ho Pui Trail or the fast track option: MacLehose Road stage nine.

Expert: Chi Ma Wan Peninsula on Lantau Island.

Barely any of the 20 kilometre loop from Mui Wo is flat but it has some great coastal views.

Steve Coward, Owner, Crosscountry HK

Deep sea sportfishing Tailchasers Tailchasers runs offshore fishing trips from mid-March to September (inshore runs all year round). The price for the day is $2,500 per angler. A private charter costs $20,000 per day (maximum of 10 anglers). Prices for inshore are 20 percent less. Trips usually depart from Aberdeen Boat Club at 7.30am, returning around 5pm, and include all fishing gear. www.hongkongfishings.com, 9122 0695.

Hong Kong Deep Sea Fishing Charters Trips usually depart from Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club marina or Kwun Tong public pier (other locations possible for private bookings).

Opt for a day trip or an overnight stay. Offshore fishing runs from March to September, inshore runs all year round. Inshore private charters start at $5,300 for a group of up to four people.

Offshore fishing starts at $3,000 per angler.

Fishing gear provided. 8192 7092, www.hkdeepseafishing.com.

Jubilee Jubilee runs nighttime squid fishing tours throughout the week, starting at $209 per adult and $199 per child. The tour runs from 7pm11pm and includes a buffet and use of fishing equipment. Tours usually depart from TST pier, but private tours can board at any pier, including Aberdeen. For details, call 3555 5555 or visit www.jubilee.hk.

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outdoors

Surf SUP Surfing Hong Kong Antony Dickson has been surfing in Big Wave Bay for 18 years and runs surf and SUP lessons throughout the year (6am-6pm at weekends; 6am-9am on weekdays). A one-on-one lesson (75 minutes) costs $800, or $1,000 for two hours. Group sessions can also be held. Surf and SUP boards are provided; party bookings available. www.surfinghongkong.com, 6485 1673.

HK Waterman Get some ocean education and learn how to surf, paddleboard and open-water swim with the experts at HK Waterman.

Operating out of Big Wave Bay, the team offer one-on-one or group lessons for adults and kids, all year round. Wetsuits (and hot chocolate) available in colder months. $350 per person for a group SUP session, from $600 per person for a group surf lesson, from $800 for a private surf lesson. Kids aged nine to 13 can participate in the Summer Splash Session, which comprises swimming, lifeguard games, SUP and beach safety ($400 per person). www.hkwaterman.com.

Paragliding Hong Kong Pilot Yuen Kit is a policeman by day but has been paragliding for 15 years. The full course with Kit, which includes P1 (flying with other experienced flyers) and P2 (flying solo) is usually around

$12,000. It can take from three months to a year to complete. www.hongkongpilot.com, 9183 1885.

Ziplining/Rock climbing

Get the gear

Rockstars Offers climbing classes for children (aged five and above) at the HKIS climbing wall in Tai Tam, as well as birthday parties for kids or adults, private instruction and family outings. The nineweek course starts from $3,600 and includes an extra bouldering trip to Shek O sea cliffs. rockstarshk.com, 9484 3060.

Asia Pacific Adventure Stocks a range of gear, from camping and biking to watersports equipment. Shop online or in store. Unit A, 16/F, Gee Chang Hong Centre, 65 Wong Chuk Hang Road, 2792-7128. Open Monday to Friday, 10am-7pm. www.asiapacificadventure.com.

Hong Kong Rock Climbing Adventure Provides rock climbing, ziplining, abseiling and canyoning days out starting from $680 per person. Bespoke packages are also available. Check out www.hkrca.com for details, 5405 4960.

Escapade Sports Everything from triathlon to rugby gear, nutrition and accessories. Shop online or in store. 110, Level 1, the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2395 2778.

Open Monday to Sunday, 10am-8pm.

2891 1855,www.escapade.com.hk.

Attic V Learn the basics of climbing at the hour long Introductory Climbing Class ($400 per person), or go for the more advanced four-session course ($800-$1,200 per person, depending on group size).

For children, one-off sessions cost $150 per child per hour (plus $30 for climbing shoe rental) or $600 per head for four sessions (including climbing shoe rental).

4A Yally Industrial Building, 6 Yip Fat Street, Wong Chuk Hang, 3101 2918, www.atticv.com.hk.

Photo by Antony Dickson

20 Southside Family Guide |

Marathon Sports Stocks a range of international sports brands. Shop G11-G14, G/F, Port Centre, 38 Chengtu Road, Aberdeen, 2814 1208.

Open Monday to Sunday, 10.30am9.30pm. www.imarathon.com, 2310 6251.

ProTrek Stocks camping, running, biking, climbing and hiking gear. Shop 11, L1, The Peak Galleria, 118 The Peak Road, 2332 8122.

Open 11am-8pm. www.protrek.com.hk.

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activities

Arts, crafts & cooking Kids get creative.

Arts & crafts Art Loop Art Loop is a studio school dedicated to art education for children aged three and up in mixed age group classes. By practicing various art techniques and learning about famous artists, children here have a wide range of topics to develop their artistic side. Unit 14, 12/F, Genesis Building, 33-35 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 5238 8186 www.artloop.hk.

Banana Art Club The Banana Art club offers ESF after-school lessons, in-home lessons and regular lessons at a number of locations around Hong Kong. Popular classes include manga and cartoon drawing courses, which teach basic construction theory and skills to draw comics and cartoons. More traditional art classes include oil and acrylic painting courses, where students can explore the artworks of renowned artists using a variety of techniques and styles.

Painting on ceramics, dolls, glasses and even umbrellas is highly encouraged in the mixed media classes. Suitable for children over five.

For details visit www.bananaartclub.com, 6020 5476.

Colour My World Colour My World provides a wide range of visual and performing arts workshops for kids, teens and adults. Junior visual arts courses for three- to nine-year-olds cover the essential basics of drawing, painting and sculpture, allowing kids lots of room for messy and creative play. Older children and adults can explore the whole spectrum of visual arts with classes including ceramics, photography, pulp fiction comic art, architectural studies and

Get stuck in at Colour My World.

portfolio building. Room 108 Aberdeen Marina Tower, 8 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen, www.colour-my-world.com, 2580 5028.

Little Picasso With Pablo Picasso’s philosophy in mind, Little Picasso offers a range of arts classes in its brightly lit and spacious Wong Chuk Hang location. Every arts course has a unique theme, ranging from spooky ghosts to Japanese scenery. Apart from drawing, children can create 2D and 3D art crafts and learn basic colour theories. Tailored private tuition classes are available upon request. The studio is also open for art parties on Fridays and Saturdays.

Classes suitable for kids aged three and above.

Studio 6, 15/F, Remex Centre, 42 Wong Chuk Hang Road, www.littlepicasso.hk, 5220 7720.

Anastassia’s Art House Taught by a large team of professional artists and educators, Anastassia’s Art House is Hong Kong’s only Russian Art Academy. The Academy looks to teach structured elements and techniques while emphasising creativity, imagination and individuality. Children can learn to appreciate art from different eras while learning to use lots of different art materials.

Centres are located all over Hong Kong, including Happy Valley and Stanley. www.arthouse-hk.com, 2719 5533

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Artful Kids Established by professional artist and teacher Gail Deayton, Artful Kids is a unique world for children, all about creativity, laughter, learning and self-expression. With a huge range of activities, materials and projects to choose from, there’s bound to be something that kids will like. The studio also holds parties for children with activities such as painting canvases and making hats fit for princesses.

For kids of all ages, those aged 18 months and under must be accompanied by an adult. 21/F, Chu Kee Building, 435 Kings Road, North Point, www.artfulkids.hk, 9722 8353.

Kids’ Gallery Kids’ Gallery celebrated its 20th anniversary in Hong Kong last year and has branches in Singapore, India and China. Initially concentrating only in visual arts, Kids’ Gallery has grown into an all-round arts centre, providing courses on communication, performing and other various forms of art.

Children get stuck into arts and crafts classes covering drawing, painting, modelling and sculpting as well as fine arts and studio arts.

Classes take place in Central and Pok Fu Lam, for children aged from one to 12 years. www.kidsgallery.com/hongkong, 2501 4842.

activities Cooking Spring Learning Centre Cooking classes at Spring are split into four groups by age from 18 months to six years old. Lessons take place in a purpose-built, multifunctional kitchen with five double stations, each with a stainless-steel worktop and induction hob. Sessions last about an hour, with trial classes from $460 or a course of eight classes from $3,360, including a bright orange chef’s hat and apron to take home and keep.

3465 5000, www.spring-learning.com.hk.

Spark Studios Budding cooks aged five to 14 can take part in a range of courses. Classes are held in English in a 2,400 sq ft studio and give kids a chance to make dishes such as cookies, Asian savouries and Japanese treats. Trial classes are $500, and six-week courses start at $2,430 for

members and $2,700 for non-members.

The studio is available for private rental.

2682 3411, www.sparkstudioshk.com.

Mixing Bowl Hands-on classes teach children aged six to 14 special cooking techniques and food presentation. Each two- to three-hour class includes savoury and sweet dishes. Lessons include home-baked snacks, coffee or tea, and children take home everything they cook as well as the recipes. Classes start at $400 with sibling discounts available. www.themixingbowlhk.com, 2524 0001.

Whisked Children aged three to 10 learn cooking techniques and skills by baking all sorts of tasty treats, including brownies, rolls, meringues and even sophisticated chocolate work. There’s an emphasis on healthy options: many recipes are low in sugar and fat and use natural sweeteners. There are also gluten- and eggfree options. Lessons are taught in Mandarin and English and are designed to boost confidence, enhance teamwork and improve time management. Classes are organised by age into three groups and typically last an hour to 90 minutes. The studio is also available for private hire. 21/F, 104 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, 3460 3130, www.whiskedbaking.com.

Towngas Cooking Centre Towngas has for nearly 40 years provided cooking classes for children using equipment adjusted for small hands. At its Little Chef Class, children aged three to six learn handson cooking skills and kitchen safety through interactive games and storytelling while creating dishes such as a Japanese bento box of rice balls, fried prawns and stir-fried vegetables. Birthday parties can also be arranged. 2576 1535, www.towngascooking.com.

YWCA Children’s and family classes offer fun and interactive cooking lessons. At Kids Can Cook, children aged three to six cook dishes such as giant cookies, savoury crepes and scrummy cakes. One-off lessons and a package of courses are available. Lessons are taught in Cantonese, English or bilingual check before signing up.

3/F, 1 Macdonnell Road, Central, clle.ywca.org.hk, 3476 1340.

For grown-ups Stylebriefhongkong Southsider and long time crafter Ingrid Keneally organises artistic workshops in and around Hong Kong, teaching anything and everything from weaving to tassel making. www.stylebriefhongkong.com.

Go-crafting The Crafties offer co-working space for crafters with a purpose with access to workshop facilities, supplies, a library, and a place to mingle with like-minded people.

Desk space may be rented on an hourly basis. You can even market your products at The Crafties Campus and The Crafties Souk or organise get-togethers through The Crafties Social. Craft workshops are available for adults and children, from crocheting to jewellery-making. Check the website for details, www.thecrafties.hk.

Learn a crafty skill with Ingrid Keneally of Stylebriefhongkong.

Southside Family Guide | 23

activities

Performing arts Encore! Encore!

Dance Twinkle Dance Company Founded by Twinkle Lam in 2007, Twinkle Dance Company offers ballet, jazz and contemporary dance classes for children aged 14 months all the way to adults. All of the teachers have professional training and qualifications. Shop 311, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Aberdeen, www.twinkledance.com.

Island Dance Teaching at 15 venues around Hong Kong, Island Dance offers ISTD Disco Freestyle, Hip Hop, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Zumba and RAD Ballet to students from two years old. Believers in building confidence through performance, Island Dance caters to all ability levels and complete beginners are welcome.

Opportunities to perform come around frequently and groups have performed at the annual Lunar New Year Parade as well as many local dance and music festivals. www.islanddance.com.hk, 2987 1571.

Red Shoe Dance School Red Shoe Dance Company is a top dance school in Hong Kong which specialises in Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical, AcroDance, and Hip Hop dance classes. Teaching children from three to 18 years, they offer RAD Ballet and ADAPT Jazz examinations in addition to performances, competitions and and training camps abroad. Serious dancers can sign up for the Pre-Professional intensive training programme, designed for those who wish to pursue a career in dance. Holiday dance camps run throughout the year. Studios are based in Central and Aberdeen. 22/F, Lee Fund Centre, 31 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen. www.redshoedance.com, 2117 9295.

Southern School of Dance Southern School of Dance offers a wide range of dance courses to aspiring young dancers.

From classical ballet to tap, hip hop and modern dance, the internationally trained and qualified teachers are of the highest calibre.

Classes are held in Wong Chuk Hang and the Hong Kong Cricket Club. www.southernschoolofdance.com.hk, 2872 6917.

Twinkle Dance

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activities

Lights. Camera. Action!

Drama Rumple and Friends Childrens’ entertainment company Rumple and Friends runs courses in circus, musical theatre and drama for budding young entertainers.

Rumple’s Big Top Summer Camp (June 26August 25) combines all three art forms in Sheung Wan (from $2,500 for the week). Make your own juggling balls, learn how to puppeteer and appear in a group performance. Book before May 12 for a discounted spot. www.rumpleandfriends.com.

Faust International Established in 1999, Faust runs drama workshops for children aged three to 18 at venues across Hong Kong. In fun, lively sessions, Faust introduces children to the world of theatre and creativity, developing performance skills, theatre knowledge, teamwork, individual expression and confidence. Classes are open to everybody, with no previous drama experience needed.

It also organises productions at Hong Kong theatres during the year. 2547 9114, www.faustworld.com.hk.

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Island Glee Club Provides opportunities for aspiring young singers to collaborate with professional singers and performers. The club teaches singing and dancing at weekend and after-school sessions in Central, Parkview and Hong Kong Academy.

As well as born performers, the club helps shy children build confidence and find their voices.

Classes are divided into junior, intermediate and senior students, with a chance to take part in an open-day performance every term. 9389 5880, www.theislandgleeclub.com.

CentreStage Studios HK Join CentreStage Studios HK this summer to learn how to act, sing and dance. Choose from Dr Seuss, Annie,Hamilton, Movie in a Week, Acting Bootcamp, Roald Dahl favourites, Shakespeare Masterclasses plus more and delve into week-long workshops with industry professionals. CentreStage are an official LAMDA Examination Centre and offer all students the opportunity to take LAMDA Examinations. For ages 3-18 and adults. All new joiners receive a complimentary first class.

To enrol, call 5689 2272/ 5236 7960 or email admin@centrestagestudioshk.com

International Academy of Film and Television This boutique film school offers programmes covering acting, filmmaking, directing, cinematography, screenwriting and editing.

IAFT places a strong emphasis on small class sizes. Students are encouraged to develop personal expression and grow comfortable both behind and in front of the camera. The special teen filmmaking programme, held only at the Hong Kong campus, is a 36-hour programme spread over six days. Students collaboratively produce a short film from an original script and a film screening is held at the end for an invited audience. Trust Tower, 68 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, www.iaft.net, 5808 3440.

Music Rock A Baby Little ones will have their feet tapping to the rhythm in no time. Music nursery classes let children learn and play through music and build important social skills with others. Mini Mozarts can be introduced to a whole range of instruments through private and group classes.

Shop B102, the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, www.rockababy.com.hk, 3586 3070.

activities

Sports

Where to give your kids the runaround.

Basketball Hong Kong Basketball Academy HKBA is a complete basketball academy offering both girls and boys one-on-one and small-group basketball coaching as well as camps throughout the year. Founded by former Hong Kong National player Jason Yam, the academy is open to beginners and more advanced players alike. Training is available throughout the week at multiple locations including Stanley, Wong Chuk Hang and Sai Ying Pun. www.hkbaallday.com.

Football Asia-Pacific Soccer Schools APSS runs courses for boys and girls of all levels aged five to 13 years old. There are squad programmes for talented players and girls-only sessions while the under-fours can join the Kinder Kicks programme, which offers a fun introduction to the game. Talented players may be selected to train with the squad and play in the Hong Kong Junior Football League and HK Football Association Henderson League. APSS also runs private, footballthemed birthday parties and “World Cup” parties at the venue of your choice as well as football camps during school holidays. Training locations vary. www.apsoccer.hk, 2385 9677.

September and May. 3 Sports Road, Happy Valley, 2830 9500, www.hkfcjuniorsoccer.com.

Little Kickers A fun introduction to football for children.

Classes are led by FA-qualified trainers and enable children from 18 months to seven years to develop skills including agility, coordination, balance and confidence. Classes are run at numerous venues including Safari Kids International in Pok Fu Lam. www.littlekickers.com.hk, 6772 5870.

Running 26 Coaching Offering some of the best youth triathlon training programmes on Hong Kong Island, 26 Coaching aims to develop techniques and teach children the importance of strength and conditioning as well as performance. The organisation offers running, track athletics and aquathlon training for children from age six.

The Youth Aquathlon programme holds weekly sessions at Repulse Bay Beach developing open-water swimming. 26 Coaching also runs indoor bike sessions for those with their own road bikes to overcome the difficulty of cycling on Hong Kong Island. www.26coaching.com.

Swimming Harry Wright International Hong Kong’s premier swim school, HWI, founded in 1975, offers infant aquatics for children as young as four months, learn to swim and competitive swimming programmes.

Students are taught by highly qualified coaches and grouped by swimming ability. Lessons are available at various clubs and schools in Pok Fu Lam, Deep Water Bay, Aberdeen and Causeway Bay. www.harrywright.com.hk, 2575 6279.

Ice Skating Cityplaza Ice Palace Tai Koo Shing’s Cityplaza Ice Palace is Hong Kong Island’s only ice skating rink open to the public. Around 30 coaches offer private and group lessons here. 18/F, One Island East, 18 Westlands Road, Taikoo Shing, www.icepalace.com.hk, 2844 8688.

The Rink at Elements Mall Get your skates on and head over to the Rink at Elements Mall. On offer are regular group, private or semi-private figure skating and ice hockey sessions. G/F, Elements, 1 Austin Road West, Tsim Sha Tsui, www.rink.com.hk, 2196 8016.

Brazilian Football Academy Five-time winners of the World Cup, Brazilians know how to play the beautiful game. The BFA offers fun and competitive football coaching for boys and girls aged five and up as well as a special Tinytots Soccer programme for little dribblers aged 16 months to four years. Stanley Ho Sports Centre, 10 Sha Wan Drive, Sandy Bay. 3488 7724, www.bfa.hk.

HK Football Club Junior Soccer Offers programmes for players aged five to 14, plus a Youth Development Pathway for selected players aged 12-18 and a programme for players with special needs. Sessions aim to be fun yet stretch players to their full potential. Competitive matches take place as part of the Hong Junior League and Hong Kong Development League. Older players take part in matches in the Hong Kong FA Henderson League. Coaching sessions take place every Saturday morning at the Football Club grounds between

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activities

HKU Sandy Bay Rugby Football Club.

Rugby HKU Sandy Bay This busy, friendly club has one of the largest mini-rugby sections in Hong Kong. Training is in English on Sundays at the ocean-side Stanley Ho playing fields in Pok Fu Lam. www.hkusandybayrfc.org.

Hong Kong Football Club Not surprisingly for a club with such a successful adult rugby division, HKFC has friendly but competitive mini-rugby and colts sections. Training is in English on Sundays at the HKFC facilities in Happy Valley.

Some teams tour internationally. www.hkfcyouthrugby.com.

RugBees A rugby-play programme for tots aged up to five years. Certified coaches hold sessions at locations around Hong Kong, including Pok Fu Lam, Kennedy Town and Happy Valley.

Class times vary. 2117 3055, www.rugbees.hk.

SCAA Causeway Bay In 2011, Causeway Bay RFC became the rugby arm of the long-established South China Athletics Association with adults’, colts’ and new mini-rugby teams. It is a bilingual club with training at So Kon Po Recreation Ground in Caroline Hill. www.scaacwbrugby.com.

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Valley Fort Established in the 1970s, the Stanley Fort Rugby Club combined with Valley RFU in 2002 to form Valley Fort minis and colts, which now has 650 members. Training is in English at a variety of grounds including St Stephen’s, Stanley Fort and HKIS at Tai Tam. www.valleyfort.com.

Horse riding Hong Kong Jockey Club Public Riding School Giddy-up! Horse riding lessons train riders up to British Horse Society standards. The waiting lists can be long and classes are small so book early. Helmets are provided but all other equipment must be provided by you. The Riding school is also home to the Riding for the Disabled Association. Recognised as an effective form of therapy for disabled children, the school has been helping disabled children and their families for many years.

75 Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road, Pok Fu Lam, www.hkjc.com, 2550 1359.

Sailing Aberdeen Boat Club ABC is a recognised Hong Kong Sailing Federation centre. It is well known for its sailing and watersports activities for children and

teenagers, including kayaking, wakeboarding, SUPing and windsurfing. Programmes run every school holiday. The ABC Junior Sailing Programme (for ages seven to 11) is open to non-members and teaches students how to sail in Optimists, special seven-foot dinghies.

Courses are held over five half-days during long school vacation periods. 20 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen, www.abclubhk.com, 2552 8182.

Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club (Middle Island) This long-established yacht club runs a sailing programme, plus private lessons for children six and up to prepare them for leisure and competition sailing. Programmes are open to non members. Most lessons run during major school holidays, throughout the school term and after school. Middle Island, www.rhkyc.org.hk, 2832 2817.

Golf The Golf School of Hong Kong Led by a PGA professional, The Golf School of Hong Kong hopes to introduce young children to the world of golf in a fun and unpressured environment. Open to enrollment throughout the year, kids can join the weekly golf lessons on Saturday or Sunday mornings at Whitehead golf club in Ma On Shan. www.thegolfschool.hk, 9507 7277.

activities Tennis

Multi sports

OTR Tennis Teaching students to win with pride and lose with character, OTR Tennis offers tailored programmes for kids of all ages and abilities run by qualified international coaches.

Weekend junior tournaments and inter-league junior matches around Hong Kong give students the opportunity to compete on a regular basis. Classes are held at a number of locations including the Hong Kong Tennis Centre, Aberdeen Tennis & Squash Centre and Hong Kong International School. www.otrtennis.com

ESF Sports All ESF Sports classes and clubs are open to both ESF and non-ESF students. Experienced coaches can take children from beginners through to advanced levels in a wide range of sports including football, basketball, tennis, karate, gymnastics and more. Holiday camps are also run throughout the year. Classes are held at a number of locations across Hong Kong. Check the website for details. www.esf.org.hk, 2711 1280.

Multi-Sport Striving to “enrich life through sport”, MultiSport puts kids aged three to 12 through their sporting paces. Here, children can try swimming, gymnastics, trampolining and many more sports. The professional coaches are renowned for their motivated and enthusiastic approach and, above all, for making the

sessions fun. www.multi-sport.com.hk, 2540 1257.

Sport4Kids Sport4Kids offers a wide range of sports programmes for children aged from 18 months up to 16 years. Rugby, soccer, swimming and basketball sessions are held at various locations. www.sport4kids.hk, 2773 1650.

Photo by Hong Kong Jockey Club

Monster Tennis Monster Tennis aims to bring young children to the game. Coaches use low-compression balls, smaller racquets, colourful teaching aids and shorter court dimensions, tailored to the children’s age and size, to make the game fun and easy to pick up. Lessons are scheduled across Hong Kong including Happy Valley and Causeway Bay. www.hkita.com, 9662 8888.

Flex Kids Hong Kong’s most dynamic instructors get little ones moving in all kinds of ways with Pilates, Yoga, Twinkle Ballet and even Funky Dance classes. Classes are divided into age appropriate groups. One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, www.flexhk.com, 2813 2399.

Giddyup!

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parties

Entertainment Call in the professionals.

Happy times with Rumple and Friends.

Rumple and Friends The Disco Party Package includes one fabulous DJ, energetic hosts, a fog machine, lighting rig with lasers, top-of-the-range speakers and microphones, banging tunes and, of course, a disco ball. Tailored parties for seven- to 14-year-olds are also available. www.rumpleandfriends.com.

Director’s Club at UA Cityplaza Book the entire cinema theatre for groups of up to 16. Choose a new release or make a request.

Free-flow popcorn, hot dogs and soft drinks are included. Catering and cake-cutting facilities available at additional cost. Cityplaza, Taikoo Shing. www.uacinemas.com.hk, 3918 5888.

Brainchild Brainchild offers a range of science and technology themed birthday parties. From building their own robots and light sabres to drag racing, children are engaged through hands-on activities. Room 2312-2314M, Hing Wai Centre, 7 Tin Wan Praya Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, 2528 6862, www.brainchildltd.com.

Funzone Under-12s can run free in over 5,000 sq ft of slides, tunnels, ball pits and air balls at this indoor playground. There's also a café, with

30 | Southside Family Guide

wifi, drinks and snacks. Party packages start at $2,800 for 10 kids. Shop 209, Marble Gardens Commercial, 33 Marble Road, North Point. www.funzone.com.hk.

Paintball HQ Use tactics and teamwork to hide and snipe at the opposing team and invade their camp.

Minimum of 10 players. Players must be eight or above and at least 130cm tall. Paintball HQ can organise pizzas to be delivered. There’s also a large room for refreshments between games but you need to bring your own supplies. www.paintballhq.com.hk, 3106 0220.

Pizza Express Pizza Parties Kids make their own pizzas. Parties cost $198, plus 10 percent service charge per child (minimum spend applies). Branches in Stanley and One Island South. Request a booking at www.pizzaexpress.com.hk.

Sideways Driving Club Bored of your Xbox? Try these virtual race car simulators. Birthday packages available.

2523 0983, www.sideways-driving-club.com.

The Cheese Brothers The Cheese Brothers have been lighting up children’s faces for years. The duo’s

performance includes slapstick and juggling routines, slow motion racing, balloon modelling and lots more fun. www.kids-party.hk.

Ryze With over 40 trampolines covering an area of 7,000 sq ft, Ryze will have the kids literally bouncing off the walls. A one-hour party package starts at $2,700 and includes use of the party room for 45 minutes after “flying”.

3/F, 321 Java Road, Quarry Bay, 2337 8191, www.ryzehongkong.com.

parties

Party Supplies Cakes, decorations and more.

Chunky Onion Chunky Onion sends in the clowns – and the puppets, magicians, comedy waiters or the cast of an entire children’s show.

Its professionally trained entertainers keep kids smiling with themed comedy routines, games, songs and puppet shows. Chunky Onion also offers comprehensive partyplanning services. www.chunkyonion.com, 2110 0014.

Eezy Peezy Parties With themes for three-year-olds to 33-year olds and more, Eezy Peezy Parties has an enormous range of party collections to suit every occasion. Baby showers, christenings, milestone decades, anniversaries and children's birthdays are just a few of the celebrations that this start-to-finish online party planning website caters to. If outdoor celebrations are what you have in mind, Eezy Peezy Parties' colourful supplies will add a fun vibe to barbecues, pool and beach parties. Browse thousands of products at www.eezypeezyparties.com.

Jumping Castles Providers of themed bouncy castles, including The Pirate Ship, Mega Obstacle Course and the brand new Princess Carriage.

The team will arrive one hour beforehand to set up. After that, kids can bounce to their hearts' content. Add a helium balloon party kit for extra fun. Large bouncy castle rentals start at $2,500 for four hours. www.jumpingcastles.com.hk, 9662 1747.

Partytime From themed invitations to giant pinatas, this Repulse Bay store is a one-stop shop for all those party essentials. It also offers a full party-planning service, supplying everything from magicians to customised banners. Adult milestone birthdays, hen nights and baby showers catered for too. Shop G117, The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2896 6781, www.partytime.com.hk.

Sweet Soirees Specialising in bespoke parties, helping to plan from set up to cleanup. Founder Lauren Roberts worked in London as an event

planner for celebrities and royalty before moving to Hong Kong, where she puts her artistic eye to good use, creating beautiful events for people of all ages. Her services include budget planning, photography, entertainment hire, venue sourcing and handmade decorations, turning your ideas into reality. Contact the company at least a month before the event. www.sweetsoireeshk.com, 2818 5870.

Poppy’s Trunk Run by three Hong Kong mums with a combined background in design, marketing and customer service. Check out their website for everything from themed stationery to complete party design packages. www.poppystrunk.com.

Hirely Created by Hong Kong couple Jessica Choi and Thomas Merritt, party planners can search through a host of food caterers, cake designers, makeup artists, hairstylists, DJs, photographers and even photo booth rentals.

Search, get quotes, and pick the price that’s right for you. Find out more at www.hirelyevents.com.

Cakes A Piece of Cake Specialising in themed cake pops and a line of desserts that includes banoffee pie and salted caramel brownies. All desserts are freshly made using the finest ingredients like Valrhona chocolate, French cream and butter. www.pieceofcakehk.com.

Cake Temptations 3D themed cakes. Select one of their fabulous designs or suggest your own. We love the Merry Go Around. For bite-sized goodies, try the cupcakes and cookies. Contact them at least two to three weeks to allow time for preparation. www.caketemptations.com.hk.

Sweet Secrets Express birthday cakes and cupcakes can be ordered for next-day collection or delivery. www.sweetsecrets.com.hk.

Venues Venuehub This successful Hong Kong startup aims to find you the perfect venue for any occasion, be it a party, business meeting or wedding.

Search its extensive directory of Hong Kong event spaces at www.venuehub.hk.

Maggie & Rose Looking for a place to party? This Repulse Bay club's events team can take care of the whole shebang - from food, and drink to themes, party bags, invitations, thank you cards, entertainers and photographers.

Available for members and non-members.

Price on request. www.maggieandrose.com.hk.

Recharge Host a party or picnic at Recharge, located next to the grassy lawn at Cyberport's Podium. Recharge can take care of the catering with sandwiches, snacks, salads and smoothies. It will even lend you picnic baskets and a few deckchairs free of charge. www.recharge.com.hk, 2668 3147.

Brick Lane Baby shower and kids' party packages start at $10,000, which includes rental of one of Brick Lane’s three venues, ranging in size from 800-4,500 sq ft. www.bricklane.com.hk.

Southside Family Guide | 31

food

Brunch date Clear out your weekend for these sumptuous spreads.

32 | Southside Family Guide

food

Southside Family Guide | 33

food

La Paloma

paella !

If you’re craving a saucy Sunday brunch, then head straight to La Paloma. Located right by Sai Ying Pun MTR, this vibrant Spanish restaurant brings its creative flair to the table with high-energy brunches from 12-4pm every weekend. It starts with a semi-buffet and a mix of cold and hot tapas. Then comes the all-you-can-eat meatand-seafood paella and suckling pig, followed by a sweet finale of Spanish churros with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. $288 per person, add free-flow Spanish Cava for an extra $180 per person.

1/F, SoHo 189, 189 Queen’s Road West (entrance on Wilmer Street), Sai Ying Pun, 2291 6161, www.lapaloma.hk.

34 | Southside Family Guide

CIRQLE Enjoy a family brunch at CIRQLE on the restaurant’s spacious outdoor terrace. The brunch features a salad bar, BBQ station, seafood station as well as a dessert corner.

The chocolate fondue is bound to be a big hit with the kids. Adults $298, children $168.

Available Sundays from 12-2pm and 3-5pm.

4/F, Ovolo Southside, Wong Chuk Hang Road, 3460 8157, www.cirqle.hk.

food Porterhouse by Laris Looking for an upscale brunch that’s perfect for a celebratory occasion? Give Porterhouse by Laris a try. You might want to leave the kids at home for this one: the sophisticated steakhouse has a glamorous feel, featuring marble floors, and an impressive wine list. Award-winning Chef David Laris has hand-picked every steak on the menu, choosing cuts straight from farmers in the U.S., Tasmania and Japan. The gourmet brunch menu includes a semi-buffet, a choice of main, and dessert. For mains, choose from a striploin, ribeye, signature burger, several

egg dishes or one of the vegetarian options. And don’t forget to dress up the experience with free-flow house wine, select cocktails and Veuve Clicquot. From $388 per person. Available Saturday and Sunday. No set time, but advanced booking is recommended.

ial specsion a occ

7/F, California Tower, 30-36 D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong, 2522 6366, porterhousebylaris.com.hk.

ocean views

CRFT-PIT Smoked meat specialist CRFT-PIT sets out to supply Hong Kong’s top restaurants with traditional Southern-style barbecue, hickorysmoked pulled pork, rotisserie and seafood.

While day to day the kitchen focuses on its industry initiatives, the weekends are all about brunch. From 1-4pm every Saturday, diners are invited to check out CRFT-PIT’s Tasting Room, which features a 30-seat dining room plus a spacious ocean-view terrace. Get excited for

a Southern-style feast - think Montreal-style smoked pastrami, St. Louis-style spare ribs, spring chicken, lamb ribs, Texas brisket and pulled pork sliders. And for dessert? Pecan pie or a traditional apple crumble pie.

Unit 2, 3/F, Harbour Industrial Center, 10 Lee Hing Street, Ap Lei Chau, 2476 2800, crft-pit.com.

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food

zuma In partnership with family-owned Champagne house Louis Roederer, zuma’s Cristal Brunch ($1,888) includes free-flow Louis Roederer Cristal 2009 and a specially designed menu featuring high-grade Beluga caviar, A5 grade Wagyu beef, Roasted Lobster with Shiso butter and Ponzu,and a white chocolate fondant with certified Alba white truffle.

For something a bit kinder to the bank balance, try the Brut Champagne package ($650), with free-flow Louis Roederer Brut Premier Champagne and cocktails. Regular Brunch packages are also available ($490; $590 with free-flow beer, wine, sake and ice teas).

Enjoy zuma’s signature dishes, including spicy beef tenderloin marinated in sesame, red chili and sweet soy, miso marinated black cod wrapped in hoba leaf and Hokkaido scallops served in umeboshi butter and mentaiko.

The brunches are all available at weekends.

kids corner’

Book a two-hour table sitting any time between 11am and 3pm. Dress code: smart casual. zuma, Level 5 & 6, 15 Queen’s Road, Central, 3657 6388, www.zumarestaurant.com.hk.

Prompt at Le Meridien Cyberport Children and adults will love the Sunday Brunch at Prompt Le Meridien, which features a kids buffet corner (complete with freshly made popcorn, candy floss, mini-burgers and more), magic shows and to top it off, panoramic views of the ocean. Feast on barbecue oysters, prawns and sausages poolside and don’t miss the chocolate fountain. $598 for adults (an extra $198 for free flow Moet et Chandon champagne), $299 for children (aged 3-12).

Available Sundays from 11.30am-3pm. (Balloon twisting and magic show runs from 1-2pm) Le Meridien Cyberport, 4/F, 100 Cyberport Road, 2980 7417, www.starwoodhotels.com.

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food

TRi

baline

Balinese bites à la carte, overlooking gorgeous Repulse Bay beach. There’s no getting up and down to visit the buffet here - instead, diners are served an array of starters, with the option to choose their main course and dessert. Favourite dish? Martabak (pan-fried flatbread stuffed with chicken curry and sweet potato with acar pickles and sambal balado). Seating-wise, pairs of diners can opt for a cocoon - an interesting experience although people with longer legs may find it a little uncomfortable to get in and out of.

Available Saturday, Sunday and public holidays, 11.30am to 4pm at $680 per person with free flow G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge; $480 for children under 12 years old.

se

3/F, Lobby C, The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2515 0577, www.tri.hk.

The Verandah

Catch

Dine in colonial splendour at The Verandah.

Sunday brunch is priced at $658 per adult and $329 per child. Enjoy a selection of appetisers from the buffet, followed by a main course of your choice. Options like carving of the day and roasted pork chop with glazed French bean, truffle dauphine potato and port wine jus have us drooling already. Round things off with something sweet from the dessert buffet, followed by coffee or tea. Available from 11am to 2.30pm with a live band performance.

Kennedy Town’s favourite brunch spot has a refreshing al fresco feel and an enticing menu, with an emphasis on seafood. The decor invites you to stay all day, and you just might with this brunch menu. There’s everything from smashed avocado with feta to scrambled eggs, a Brekki bap, smoked ham, granola and French toast as well as Roasters Alchemy coffee and a lengthy wine list. Our favourite is Big Bad Ben (poached eggs, bacon, avocado, chorizo, hashbrowns, hollandaise and chilli oil). Available weekends and public holidays, until 3.45pm.

The Verandah, The Repulse Bay, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2922 2822, www.therepulsebay.com.

93 Catchick St, Sai Wan, 2855 1289, www.catchoncatchick.hk.

ha s brownh s

Southside Family Guide | 37

food

Catering & delivery Delicious food delivered to your door.

"I was slaving away in the kitchen for hours."

Health conscious

Ready to eat

Chewswize A snack subscription service that sends five portion controlled, nature-based snacks to your home or office each week.

Each daily pack contains no more than 250 calories. $88 per week. Order online at www.chewswize.com.

Eatology Provides tailor-made healthy meal plans delivered to your door. Order online - if you can’t decide, request a free consultation with one of its dieticians. www.eatologyasia.com.

Secret Ingredient Home-cooking reinvented. Choose one of the online recipes and Secret Ingredient will deliver all the ingredients. Each meal comes with instructions and is ready in 10 to 30 minutes.

The Six-Day Detox begins with a three-day juice cleanse followed by three meals per day.

Delivery to the Southside costs $25. Order by 2pm. 2108 4000, www.secretingredient.com.hk.

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Restaurant food Deliveroo Dedicated to bringing quality restaurant cuisine to your home or office in an average of 32 minutes. Delivers to Pok Fu Lam, Stanley and Repulse Bay. www.deliveroo.hk.

Food Panda Order all kinds of cuisine for delivery or pick-up, from takeaway pizzas and burgers to healthier options including salads, noodles and wraps. www.foodpanda.hk.

Catering Invisible Kitchen Gourmet catering for barbecues, picnics, junks, dinner parties, office lunches and more.

Canapés, dishes and snacks are all made with fresh, carefully sourced ingredients. 2711 5788, www.invisiblekitchen.com Chez Patrick Stanley’s French deli also caters for formal sit-down dinners and more casual events.

Menus can be tailored to meet your needs and budget. 2527 2708, www.chezpatrick.hk.

Culinart Putting the art into food. Culinart blends unfamiliar and familiar flavours to create dishes that span from farm-to-table casual to molecular contemporary. It can cater for events of any size with handcrafted seasonal menus.

2580 0919, www.culinart.com.hk.

food Groceries honestbee Shop from multiple grocery stores in one online basket, including Marks & Spencer, Fusion, Great Food Hall, City Super and Gateway.

Items are hand-picked by honestbee’s specially trained shoppers and delivered to you within your chosen one-hour timeframe. Free delivery for orders above $250, otherwise $60.

Southsiders can use the code HKSSF100 to get $100 off a $350 shop (valid until December 31). www.honestbee.hk.

Fish and meat Farmer’s Kitchen Works with farms in Australia to provide 100 percent grass-fed, naturally farmed produce. Meats include beef, lamb, chicken, individually packed steaks, poultry and sausages.

Fish is also available. Next day delivery on online orders placed before noon at www.farmerskitchen.com.hk.

Pacific Gourmet Premium chilled meat and seafood from Australia and Norway. Game, deli items and wines also available. Free delivery to the

Southside on orders over $500. There are also shops in Horizon Plaza, Mid-Levels and Happy Valley, www.pacificgourmet.com.hk.

South Stream Seafoods Responsibly sourced fresh and frozen seafood, organic fresh and frozen meat, vegetables, eggs, groceries and drinks. Also has a glutenfree and halal range. Free delivery on orders over $500. 2555 6200, www.south-stream-seafoods.com.

MNC Asia Specialises in seafood sourced from France.

Free delivery on orders above $1,000.

2563 8891, www.mnc-asia.com.

Healthy eats MUM Vegetarian restaurant MUM also hosts "yogi lunches" - a morning yoga session followed by a vegetarian lunch. G07, G/F, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 2115 3348, www.mum-hk.com.

3/3rds Uses locally sourced ingredients to whip up delicious salads, soups and sandwiches.

22/F, Yally Industrial Building, 6 Yip Fat Street, Wong Chuk Hang, 3462 2951, www.three-3rds.com.

Artichoke Canteen Artichoke dishes up international vegetarian fare with a few fish and chicken options.

311 Harbour Industrial Centre, 10 Lee Hing Street, Ap Lei Chau, 9684 9964, www.artichokecanteen.com.

Vita Coco Popular coconut water brand, Vita Coco, is packed with electrolytes and potassium - a perfect thirst quencher for hot summer months. www.vitacoco.com.

Southside Family Guide | 39

food

Special occasions Fizz. Bubble. Pop!

Grab one of the swinging sofas at Classified, Repulse Bay.

Quick bites Classified A Hong Kong favourite and an ideal spot for a family breakfast or lunch. The menu features all your favourites, from burgers to charcuterie platters, plus a selection of wine, breads and cheeses to eat in or take away.

Children’s menus also available. Locations in Stanley and Repulse Bay. Prime position at the Repulse Bay branch is one of the two pillow-strewn swinging sofas facing the sea. www.classifiedfood.com.

Colonial elegance at The Verandah, Repulse Bay.

The Ocean The Ocean’s wavy textural finishes and seashell-inspired seating are intended to make you feel like you’re dining under the sea. Executive Chef Agustin Balbi focuses on French and Japanese flavours and incorporates a range of seafood into his delicately balanced dishes, including red snapper, langoustine, razor clams and scallops. Go with an empty stomach as lunch, brunch and dinner all feature multiple courses; the degustation menu features a possible 10. 3/F, the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2889 5939, www.theocean.hk.

Pomegranate Kitchen The private kitchen and caterer also has two venues where you can hold private events and parties, as well as a spacious terrace. Dishes have a twist of Eastern Mediterranean and Southeast Asian flavours, inspired by owner Maria Bizri’s cultural heritage. 4/F, Unit 4B, 44 Wong Chuk Hang, 2580 0663, www.pomegranate.com.hk.

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ABOVE Party sky high at ABOVE, on the rooftop of Ovolo Southside. Glorious panoramic views, intimate spaces and edgy street art makes ABOVE a hotspot for special occasions, with enough indoor and outdoor space to house up to 80 guests. The long list of cocktails includes updated classics and imaginative signature creations. 23/F, 64 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, 3460 8100, www.ovolohotels.com.

The Verandah The Verandah exudes an elegant atmosphere with its high ceilings, marbled floors and grand staircase. Located on the site of the old Repulse Bay Hotel - where regular guests included the likes of Ernest Hemingway - it offers glorious views of the beach and out across the South China Sea. Whether you’re there for the traditional afternoon tea, Sunday brunch or the regular menu, make sure you get a window seat. 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay, 2292 2822, www.therepulsebay.com.

Stan cafe A local favourite, serving French artisan breads, pastries, cheeses and more.

Shop 505, 5/F, Carmel Road, Stanley, 2324 9008, www.stancafe.hk.

Elephant Grounds Open 9am-6pm, this 10,000 sq ft cafe serves the brand’s signature coffees and homemade ice cream, plus lunchtime takeaways such as Korean deep-fried chicken.

1/F, The Factory, 1 Yip Fat Street, Wong Chuk Hang, 2562 9000, www.elephantgrounds.com.

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education

Kindergartens

Bebegarten Established 2013 Class size Max. 15 (teacher:student ratio of 1:6 to 1:10) Curriculum Bebegarten’s Language of Children™ framework - an inquiry based bilingual curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia project in Italy.

Fees 2016/2017 $1,500-$4,800 per month (playgroup); $5,200$7,200 (transition); $7,600-$10,000 (nursery) Non refundable capital levy N/A Address Unit 301-305, Level 3, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang Website www.bebegarten.com Tel 3487 2255

Safari Kid International Hong Kong Established January 2014 Class size Max. 24 Curriculum: Safari Curriculum Fees 2016/2017 $1,200-$10,800 per month (according to age) Non refundable capital levy N/A Address L101 Chi Fu Landmark, Chi Fu Fa Yuen, Pok Fu Lam; G/F, 16 Min Sat Street, Happy Valley, 2777 5198 (daycare nursery) Website safarikidasia.com/hk Tel 2177 0001

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International Montessori School Established 2002 Number of students 900 Class size Max 25 Curriculum Montessori Dual Language (English/Putonghua) Fees 2016/2017 On application Non refundable capital levy $75,000 Address Stanley Campus: Phase III, Ma Hang Estate, Stanley; South Horizons Campus: G/F, Blocks 23 to 23A, South Horizons, Phase III, Ap Lei Chau Website www.ims.edu.hk Tel Stanley: 2566 7196 South Horizons: 2861 0339

Southside Kindergarten Established 2000 Number of students up to 108 Class size 18 students and two teachers per class Curriculum Foundation stage of British National Curriculum Fees 2016/2017 $9,200 per month Non refundable capital levy N/A, $500 registration fee Address G203, The Repulse Bay, 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay Website www.southside.edu.hk Tel 2592 7527

Little Dalton Established 2013 Number of students 137 Class size 18 (teacher:student ratio 1:6) Curriculum Based on the English Early Years Foundation Stage, complemented by a Chinese literacy and virtues program.

Fees 2016/2017 $2,200 - $9,700 per month Non refundable capital levy $9,000 Address KG01, G/F, Wah Sin House, Wah Kwai Estate, Pok Fu Lam Website www.littledalton.com Tel 2792 2566

Sunshine House (Pok Fu Lam) Established 1990 Number of students 85 Class size 10-25 (teacher:student ratio of 1:7 – 1:15) Curriculum British National Curriculum including basic level Mandarin Fees 2016/2017 $26,000-$68,000 per year (ages 12 months - 6 years) Non refundable capital levy N/A, $8,000 refundable deposit Address Commercial Block A, Pok Fu Lam Gardens, 180 Pokfulam Road, Pok Fu Lam Website sunshinehouse.com.hk Tel 2551 3213

Parkview International Pre-School Established 1989 Number of students 210 (playgroup to preparatory) Class size Playgroup: 8; others: 12-20 Curriculum two years: inquirybased; three to six years: IB-PYP Fees 2016/2017 from $41,800 (two-day a week playgroup) to $198,000 (full-day nursery, lower kindergarten and preparatory) per year Non-refundable capital levy $8,000 per school year Address Tower 18, Hong Kong Parkview, 88 Tai Tam Reservoir Road Website www.pips.edu.hk Tel 2812 6023

Woodland Pre-Schools Established 1978 Number of students Around 2,000 Class size 10 Curriculum Traditional or Montessori, depending on the school Fees 2016/2017 $2,000-$12,700 (extended day) per month Non refundable capital levy N/A Address Campuses situated around Hong Kong, including Tai Tam, Repulse Bay, Happy Valley, Pok Fu Lam and the Peak.

Website www.woodlandschools.com Tel 2559 4855

education

New in town

Rightmind International Nursery and Kindergarten, South Horizon Campus (Kindergarten)

Rightmind International Nursery and Kindergarten, Shum Wan Campus (Pre-Nursery/Creche)

Established 1980 Number of students 290 Curriculum Total immersion English and Mandarin curriculum Fees 2016/2017 $77,800 per year Non refundable capital levy N/A Refundable capital contribution scheme: $23,000 Address UG/F, Block 26-28, South Horizons, Phase 4, Ap Lei Chau Website www.rmkg.org Tel 2875 0452

Established 2012 Number of students 206 Class size 28 (pre-nursery); 19 (creche class) Curriculum Total immersion English and Mandarin curriculum Fees 2016/2017 $86,900 (prenursery) $94,600 (creche class) per year Non refundable capital levy N/A Refundable capital contribution scheme: $23,000 Address G/F, Broadview Court, 11 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen Website www.rmkg.org Tel 2795 1018

OTHER PRE-SCHOOLS Tutor Time Redhill 2813 2688 www.tutortime.com.hk Highgate House School The Peak 2849 6336 www.highgatehouse.edu.hk

French International School Opening in 2018, in Tseung Kwan O, the new primary campus will include a spacious gymnasium, state-of-the-art swimming pool, running track, 300-seat auditorium and three large playgrounds. www.fis.edu.hk.

The American School Hong Kong The school opened its new Tai Po campus last year for kindergarten through to Grade 6, adding a middle school this year and a high school in 2018. The curriculum is based on the US Common Core and will offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, US High School Diploma and Advanced Placement options.

Contact admissions director Mary Ewing on 3974 8554, mewing@ashk.hk.

Shrewsbury School This new co-educational primary school will open in Tseung Kwan O (Siu Chik Sha) in 2018, with a purpose-built space for over 1,000 international students aged three to 11. It will offer the English National Curriculum. Applications open.

Contact 2480 1500 or email reception@shrewsbury.org.uk.

Malvern College Hong Kong Opening in Tai Po in September 2018 with 380 primary places, but capacity will rise to 960 once full.

The school will offer an International Baccalaureate curriculum and will be open to children aged six12. Applications open. Contact communications & marketing director Gill Keefe on 3898 4688, gill.keefe@malverncollege.org.hk.

Stamford American School Opening in Ho Man Tin, in September 2017, SAIS will initially cater for pre-primary to grade 7 students but will introduce grades 8-12 the following academic year.

It will offer an interdisciplinary program based on the American Education Reaches Out (AERO) and Common Core Plus frameworks. 2500 8688, admissions@sais.edu.hk.

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education

Primary

Secondary

All through

ESF Island School

ESF Bradbury School Established 1992 Number of students 700 Class size 30 Curriculum IB PYP Fees 2016/2017 $100,700 (P1); $83,500 (P2-6) Non refundable capital levy $38,000 (P1 entrants), sliding scale for those joining in later years Address 43C Stubbs Road, Happy Valley Website www.bradbury.edu.hk Tel 2574 8249

ESF Kennedy School Established 1961 Number of students 900 Class size Max. 30 Curriculum IB PYP Fees 2016/2017 $100,700 (P1); $83,500 (P2-6) Non refundable capital levy $38,000 (P1 entrants), sliding scale for those joining in later years Address 19 Sha Wan Drive, Pok Fu Lam Website kennedy.edu.hk Tel 2855 0711

ESF Quarry Bay School Established 1926 Number of students 700 Class size 30 Curriculum IB PYP Fees 2016/2017 $100,700 (P1); $83,500 (P2-6) Non refundable capital levy: $38,000 (P1 entrants), sliding scale for those joining in later years Address 6 Hau Yuen Path, North Point Tel 2566 4242

ESF Peak School Established 1911 Number of students 360 Class size 30 Curriculum IB PYP Fees 2016/2017 $100,700 (P1); $83,500 (P2-6) Non refundable capital levy $38,000 (P1 entrants), sliding scale for later joiners Address 20 Plunkett's Road, The Peak Website www.ps.edu.hk Tel 2849 7211

44 | Southside Family Guide

The Harbour School Established 2007 Number of students 300 students (800 once the renovations to the Grove campus are completed in 2018, enabling the school to cover Pre-K to Grade 12) Class size 20 on average Curriculum US Curriculum Fees 2016/2017 $148,400 -$170,400 Annual capital levy: $25,000, Family Debenture: $400,000 Address Pre-K to K Harbour Village: 2/F, 23 Belcher's Street Kennedy Town; G1-G6 The Garden: 138 Lee Chi Road, Ap Lei Chau; G7-G12 The Grove: 332 Ap Lei Chau Bridge Road, Ap Lei Chau, Website www.ths.edu.hk Tel 3708 9060 Ap Lei Chau: 3708 9060

Established 1967 Number of students 1,200 Class size: Max. 30 Curriculum: GCSE/ IGCSEs, IB Diploma, Applied Learning Programme (BTEC qualifications) Fees 2016/2017 $115,700 (Y7-11)- $121,500 (Y12-13) Non refundable capital levy $26,000 (Y7 entrants), sliding scale for later joiners Address 20 Borrett Road, Mid-levels Website www.island.edu.hk Tel: 2524 7136

ESF South Island School Established 1977 Number of students 1,400 Class size Max 30 Curriculum GCSE/IGCSEs, IB Diploma, Applied Learning Programme (BTEC qualifications) Fees 2016/2017 $115,700 (Y7-11)- $121,500 (Y12-13) Non refundable capital levy $26,000 (Y7 entrants), sliding scale for later joiners Address 50 Nam Fung Road, Aberdeen Website www.sis.edu.hk Tel 2555 9313

ESF West Island School Established 1991 Number of students 1,200 Class size Max 30 Curriculum GCSE/IGCSEs, IB Diploma, Applied Learning Programme (BTEC qualifications) Fees 2016/2017 $115,700 (Y7-11)- $121,500 (Y12-13) Non refundable capital levy $26,000 (Y7 entrants), sliding scale for later joiners Address 250 Victoria Road, Pok Fu Lam Website www.wis.edu.hk Tel 2819 1962

French International School Established 1963 Total Number of students 2,600 Class size Max. 25 Curriculum French stream: French National Curriculum (French Baccalaureate); International stream: English National Curriculum to IGCSE then IB Fees 2016/2017 $96,589$184,038 Refundable Debenture Category A (corporate) $250,000; Category B (private) $90,000 Website www.fis.edu.hk Tel 2577 6217

Canadian International School of Hong Kong Established 1991 Number of students 1,800 Class size Pre ReceptionGrade 6: 20-25; Grade 7-12: 8-24 (varies by subject) Curriculum IB and OSSD Fees 2016/2017 $98,600 (Pre Reception)-$178,200 (Grades 11&12) Non refundable capital levy $29,000 (payable if student not covered by debenture) Address 36 Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen Website www.cdnis.edu.hk Tel 852 2525 7088

Jardine’s Lookout Campus Established 1984 Number of students 1,110 French and International Streams Address 34 Price Road, Jardine’s Lookout Hung Hom Campus Established 2014 Number of students 275 French Stream Address 68 Gillies Avenue, Hung Hom Chai Wan Campus Established 2011 Number of students 377 French and International Streams Address 1 Cheung Man Road, Chai Wan Blue Pool Road Campus Established 1999 Number of students 865 French and International Streams Address 165 Blue Pool Road, Happy Valley

German Swiss International School Established 1969 Number of students 1,300 Curriculum German, British, IB Diploma Fees 2016/2017 $137,400$181,200 Non refundable developmental debenture: $332,500; refundable standard debenture: $475,000 Address Peak Campus: 22 Guildford Road; Pok Fu Lam Campus (Kindergarten and Lower Primary): 162 Pok Fu Lam Road Website mygsis.gsis.edu.hk Tel Peak: 2849 6216; Pok Fu Lam: 2849 6217

Hong Kong International School

Victoria Shanghai Academy ​​

Established 1966 Number of students 2,600 Class size 14-22 Curriculum American with Advanced Placement Fees 2016/2017 $120,000$209,700 Non refundable capital levy $17,000 for 2017/18 Address 1 Red Hill Road, Tai Tam Website www.hkis.edu.hk Tel 3149 7001

Established 2004 Number of students 1​,800 Class size Max. 28​ Curriculum IB Fees 2016/2017​$118,700​ -$171,450 Non refundable capital levy N/A​, refundable levy of $60,000 Address 19 Shum Wan Road,​​ Aberdeen Website www.vsa.edu.hk Tel: 3402 1000

OTHER SCHOOLS Primary & secondary Chinese International School Braemar Hill 2510 7288, www.cis.edu.hk

Kellett School Established 1976 Number of students 1,200 Class size 23 Curriculum British National Curriculum, I/GCSEs & A-levels Fees 2016/2017 $157,300$201,200 subject to EDB approval Non refundable capital levy N/A Debentures required Address Pok Fu Lam Campus: 2 Wah Lok Path, Wah Fu, Pok Fu Lam; Kowloon Bay Campus: 7 Lam Hing Street, Kowloon Bay Website www.kellettschool.com Tel 3120 0700

Korean International School Sai Wan Ho 2569 5500, www.kis.edu.hk Carmel Schools Association Shau Kei Wan 3665 5388, www.carmel.edu.hk Delia School of Canada Tai Koo Shing 3658 0400, www.delia.edu.hk Independent Schools Foundation Academy Pok Fu Lam 2202 2000, www.isf.edu.hk Kindergarten, primary & secondary Singapore International School Aberdeen 2872 0266 / 2919 6966, www.singapore.eu.hk

Southside Family Guide | 45

education

Tuition

Where to find a tutor on the Southside.

The Graduate An online tutor/student matching service for students of all ages. A matching program is used to create a shortlist of tutors. Pick whom you want to work with and start learning.

Tutoring can take place through face-to-face lessons or video conferences. The matching service is free; rates for tutors start at around $200 per hour. www.thegraduate.com.hk.

ITS Education Asia Educational support for children and adults, plus exam preparation services for SATs, iGCSEs, A-levels, IB and more. Take a tutorial programme at one of its schools or use the online learning service. In addition, ITS offers university admissions advice and an education consulting service that works with families and employers to find the right schools for children in Hong Kong. Locations in Central and Mong Kok. www.tuition.com.hk.

Southside Mandarin Mandarin-language playgroups and immersion programmes for children aged six months to 12 years. Opt for straightforward lessons or learn in combination with wushu, art, music or drama. All classes are taught by professionally qualified native speakers with experience in early childhood and primary education.

Shop 106-107, 1/F, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 3427 9619, www.southsidemandarin.com.

Kumon Originally developed in Japan, Kumon is now used in over 40 countries and regions.

Subjects are limited to English, Chinese and mathematics. The Kumon method is based on individual instruction and the completion of daily worksheets to develop basic building blocks. For details of your nearest centre, call 2890 6533 or visit www.kumon.com.hk.

Sylvan Learning Center Each child is given a bespoke programme based on individual strengths and weaknesses.

Sylvan offers tuition in maths, science, Mandarin, English reading and writing and homework help, school entrance exams (UK, US and Hong Kong), plus exam-preparation classes for the IGCSE, IB, SAT and ACT. Lessons are for children aged five-18 and are taught in groups of three. Initial assessment fee: $1,500 ($400-600 per hour thereafter).

Holiday camps include science, robotics and coding, and writing. Locations on the Southside: 2/F, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Aberdeen; G209 The Repulse Bay, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2873 0662, www.sylvanlearning.com.

Mentorhood Learning Center Specialising in maths tuition, this centre teaches students to solve maths problems using the Thinking Block Model from Singapore, a way of representing word problems in a visual way. English lessons and playgroup for ages three-12 are also on offer, as well as tutoring for public exam courses in the IB, British and American curricula and consultations for university preparation. Locations include Shop 209A, West Commercial Centre, Marina Square, Ap Lei Chau. Details at 5160 1828, www.mentorhood.com.hk.

46 | Southside Family Guide

Snapask by Appedu Used by over 20,000 students across Asia, this mobile app provides instant on-demand learning support to secondary school students.

With tutors from universities across Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan and China, 17 seconds is the average time it takes for a tutor to pick up your question. Buy credits online or at 7-Eleven stores. The Starter Pack costs $150 and comes with 150 credits (each in-app question costs 10 credits). www.snapask.co.

PGEM Online tuition and academic support, plus essay help, SAT/ACT test preparation and university counseling. PGEM also covers IB MYP, IB DP, AP, A-Levels, IGCSE and HKDSE including languages. Learners can book slots with tutors via the website for a one-on-one session using interactive video calling, live chat and whiteboard facilities. Fees for live one-on-one online tutoring are USD$60 per session; fees for essay help and writing support are USD$60-$150. Suite 3203 Central Plaza, 18 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, 2500 6078, www.paradigm-gem.com.

Interactive learning at Southside Mandarin.

education

Language lessons British Tutors Individual or group lessons in English, French, German, Latin and Spanish can be held at home or online. Classes cover phonics, reading, comprehension and creative writing. Interactive holiday workshops are also available. Prices vary with location. Level 15, Yardley Commercial Building, 1-6 Connaught Road West, 8191 2252, www.britishtutors.com.

GAIA World Language Mandarin, English, Spanish and Latin classes for all ages. All materials are produced in-house and are taught by native language teachers in an interactive group environment. Classes are available Monday to Saturday and range from $250-$400 per hour. 9/F, Universal Trade Centre, 3 Arbuthnot Road, Central, 2530 9888, www. gaialanguage.com.

Interactive French French tuition for children of all ages in private or group lessons. French for

Toddlers teaches basic sounds and vocabulary in familiar themes such as greetings, family, and around the home. Classes for older children involve role-plays, songs and interaction. Très bien! 9/F, Yat Chau Building, 262 Des Voeux Road, Central, 3563 5263, www.interactivefrench.hk.

KidsEdge English tuition from native English teachers for children aged two-and-a-half years and up. A range of classes is available for group or private lessons to help improve public speaking, reading, writing, storytelling and interview skills.

1302 Universal Trade Centre,3 Arbuthnot Road, Central, 2868 0636, www.kidsedge-education.com.hk.

French International School. Units 306-307, Level 3, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 2526 8892, www.lespetitslascars.com.

HK KIDZ The Hong Kong Institute of Languages provides English, French, Mandarin and Cantonese classes, amongst others, for children. Units 306-307, Level 3, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 2877 6160, www.hklanguages.com.

Les Petits Lascars Catering to the needs of the growing French community in Hong Kong.

Immersive French language classes are on offer for children aged twelve months and up. A helping hand is also available to future applicants of the

Southside Family Guide | 47

shopping

Home & Living Make your home beautiful.

QiSiMu Specialist in Chinese classical rosewood furniture.

Chairs, tables, cabinets and beds are made using traditional craftsmanship techniques inspired by the Ming and Qing dynasties. Shop 311, The Arcade, Cyberport, 3618 6598.

JM Style Furniture and Gallery JM Style takes inspiration from some of the most influential and iconic European designs of the last century. Original art and design pieces as well as unusual home accessories make this a haven for budding interior designers. Shop 312, The Arcade, Cyberport, www.jmstyle.com.hk, 2377 9592.

Everything Under the Sun This local company supplies top brands of outdoor furniture for homes, hotels and clubhouses. Sells awnings, barbecues, sun loungers, mist fans and more.

9/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2554 9088, www.everythingunderthesun.com.hk.

Tequila Kola A vibrant emporium full of unique furniture, fabrics and accessories. People who arrive at Tequila Kola disinterested in furniture, leave inspired.

There’s a small area for kids and a Classified coffee shop. 1/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2877 3295, www.tequilakola.com.

HD Buttercup.

Furniture and homeware HD Buttercup Inspired by Californian coastal style, this American furniture store offers something for all tastes - whether you're into classic, contemporary or industrial décor, want family friendly pieces or are after a more luxurious look. Limited-edition art and a vast selection of rugs are also available.

2/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2555 2997, www.hdbuttercup.com.

Tree Reclaimed and recycled timber furniture, plus soft furnishings. There’s a tailor-made service, cool kids range and plenty of collections to choose from, plus a lovely café and a play area for the kids - perfect for when you need a break from the shops. 28/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2870 1582, www.tree.com.hk.

48 | Southside Family Guide

Establo Offers a curated selection of modern furniture and lifestyle accessories from Europe. Room C&D, 4/F, Kwai Bo Industrial building, 40 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, 3565 5207, www.establo.hk.

Oriental Home Stocks ornate cabinets, chairs, bed frames and many others items from all over China. The owners have family connections in Tibet, which is notable from the range of traditional Tibetan furniture on display. 20/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 3542 5336.

Woodmark Living American hardwood furniture. Find pieces in walnut, cherry, oak, maple, and more.

Shop 404, The Arcade, Cyberport, 3621 0609, www.woodmark.com.hk.

Bowerbird Home Well known for its hand-painted, blue-andwhite Chinese porcelain, Bowerbird Home sells classic and contemporary furniture and beautiful accessories. It also works with The Home Stylist to offer interior design advice. Unit 801-802, 8th Floor, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, www.bowerbird-home.com.

Indigo Living and Kids Contemporary furniture and homeware with an Asian twist. Indigo Kids sells children’s bedroom and nursery furniture, decorative pieces, plus a small range of Stokke products and toys. Stores in Horizon Plaza, Cyberport Arcade and The Repulse Bay, www.indigo-living.com.

Natuzzi Specialising in luxurious sofas, armchairs and beds, the Natuzzi style blends modern comfort and technology with Italian craftsmanship. The Natuzzi Re-vive is the world’s first “performance recliner”. Shop 3-4, G/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2320 1032, www.natuzzi.com.

shopping

Fashion Beach vibes Island Wake Fashion and accessories for wakeboarders, surfers and snowboarders.

Shop 111, Stanley Plaza, 2352 0208, www.islandwake.com.

Itsie Bitsie Boutique Luxury resort styled clothing, in particular beach and swimwear from brands like Vix, Melissa Odabash and others.

G117, The Arcade, Repulse Bay. Mazu Swimwear Mazu pays homage to Hong Kong's rich maritime history, incorporating local motifs, flora and fauna, traditional colours and naval references into its comfy swim shorts for boys and men. www.mazuswimwear.com.

Lovers & Friends Channel that Los Angeles beach look, with cute dresses, cool denim and festival-inspired tops. Stocks Havaianas, Superga and other international brands. Shop 106, The Pulse, Repulse Bay, 2501 5355, www.loversandfriends.us.

Brands Instyle The latest in fashion accessories, from designer to more affordable high street brands. Shop 109, Stanley Plaza, 2813 8801, www.instyle.hk.

H&M The global high street fashion brand sells clothing, shoes and accessories. Shop 1, G/F, Murray House, 23 Carmel Road, Stanley.

28111584, www.hm.com/hk.

Tiare Effortlessly fashionable clothing and accessories from internationally renowned American designers like Graham and Spencer and Citizens of Humanity. G106, The Arcade, Repulse Bay, 2541 0155, www.shoptiare.com.

Traditional Chinese Lotus Village Traditional Chinese cheongsams and evening gowns. Expert tailors can fit the clothes to your size and customise your outfits.

2-6A Stanley Main Street, 2813 1233, www.lotusvillage.com.hk.

Jewellery Tunique Add a bit of glamour to your day at the beach with this selection of costume jewellery.

Kiosk 2, Level 2, Repulse Bay, 2890 9399, www.tunique.com.

Roche Bobois High-end, contemporary furniture and accessories that celebrate French style.

Open 10.30am-6.30pm. Shop 1, G/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2580 0488, www.roche-bobois.com.

G.O.D Quirky homeware and furnishing with a distinctive Hong Kong flair. Keep a look out for the latest kitsch presents and souvenirs.

Shop 105, Stanley Plaza, 2673 0071, www.god.com.hk.

DOMA International Lifestyle store stocking cool electronics and gifts: think stylish headphones, bluetooth handsets and, good for the beach, handheld fans. Shop 207A, the pulse, Repulse Bay, 2557 7822, www.doma.com.hk.

Savoir Beds Bedtime luxury. Be warned, it doesn’t come cheap: the full set of box spring, mattress and topper will set you back $120,000 to $800,000.

Shop 2, G/F, info@savoirbeds.hk, 2836 6630, hongkong.savoirbeds.co.uk

Farrington Interiors Fine European home accessories and furnishings, from napkin holders to chandeliers.

Shop 211, the pulse, Repulse Bay, 2808 0303, www.farringtoninteriors.com.

Bookazine Hong Kong's leading chain of bookshops stocks bestsellers for all the family, magazines, cards, stationery, sweets and more.

Shop G107 C-D, The Arcade, Repulse Bay, 2555 0431, www.bookazine.com.hk.

Accessories Mirth A distinctive collection of globally sourced furnishings, interior accessories and artwork.

The Mezzanine Floor, Yip Kan Street, Wong Chuk Hang, www.mirthhome.com.

OMWorld Indulge in heavenly scents, from luxury soaps and candles to home fragrance diffusers. Your home will never have smelled so good. Shop 313, The Arcade, Cyberport, 2989 6152. www.omworld.net.

Fink From Germany. Stocks elegant soft furnishings, home décor, candleholders, vases and more.

Shop 218, the pulse, Repulse Bay, 2608 9838, www.fink-shop.com.

Loveramics Choose and paint your own ceramics, which the store will fire for you – they make great gifts.

Shop 207, 2994 1289, the pulse, Repulse Bay, www.loveramics.com.

Books, electronics & stationery Impression Books A one-stop shop for all your literary needs.

Shop 301, The Arcade, Cyberport, 2613 8000.

Southside Family Guide | 49

shopping

Children & Babies Clothes, books and toys for kids.

Seed Heritage Stylish but comfortable casual clothes for women, teens, children and babies, all under one roof. Shop 201A & B, the pulse, Repulse Bay, 2803 1677, www.seedheritage.com.

Star ThreeSixty Junior Perfect for those active days by the beach, this shop sells lifestyle activewear by bands like Polo Ralph Lauren, Guess Kids and Heeleys.

Shop 201G(2), the pulse, Repulse Bay, 2779 6363, www.starthreesixty.com.

Organic Baby This socially and environmentally friendly brand offers apparel and gifts for babies and children.

Shop G103, The Arcade, Repulse Bay, 2882 6548, www.organicbaby.com.hk.

Books Toys Brick Shop Lego world comes to the Southside in all its multicoloured, imaginative, timeless glory.

Shop 201D(1), the pulse, Repulse Bay, 2811 1880, www.brickshop.com.hk.

Wise-Kids Toys from international brands including Lego, Brio and Playmobil. Kids will love the upstairs play area. Shop 101, The Arcade, Cyberport, 2989 6298, www.wisekidstoys.com.

Inside A small but cute kids’ range and some furniture.

Shop 1201, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2873 1795, www.inside.com.hk.

Fashion Chickeeduck Founded in 1990, this popular chain offers a selection of quality children’s fashion.

Shop 201E, the pulse, Repulse Bay, 2676 9001, www.chickeeduck.com.

Juliet & the Band French chic clothing for children aged two to 14, including knits with a cool Parisian twist.

Shop 201D(2), the pulse, Repulse Bay, 2321 5288, www.julietandtheband.com.

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Book Buddy A wide range of books for children and young adults. Fiction, non-fiction, educational books and more. Shop 202, Stanley Plaza, 3197 0388.

One-stop shop Biva Sources playful, colourful and environmentally friendly products. Shop 103, Stanley Plaza, 2696 9218, www.biva.com.hk.

Mama Kid Smart and chic collections for children with an eye for fashion as well as thoughtful accessories, toys and books. Shop 103A, Stanley Plaza, 2331 8792, www.mamakid.com.

Bumps to Babes Knowledgeable staff and a huge stock of strollers, cots, bassinets, carriers, car seats, clothes, toys and food. 21/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2552 5000, www.bumpstobabes.com.

Mothercare & Early Learning Centre Smaller than some of its other Hong Kong stores, this British brand still offers a good range of maternity, baby and toddler essentials, sold by informed staff. Shop 1912, 19/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2518 0528, www.mothercare.com.hk.

Furniture Flexa Hip furniture (bunk bed slide, anyone?) and soft furnishings for ankle biters. Shop 1103, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2580 0836, www.flexa.com.hk.

Okooko Modern but sweet and cosy bedroom furniture for children. 26/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 2870 1132, www.okooko.com.

Nerd Kids for Living Desks, chairs and sofas for older children.

19/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, 3105 9887, www.nerdkidsforliving.com.

shopping

Groceries Supermarket sweep.

Shopping centres The Arcade, Cyberport 100 Cyberport Road 10am-10pm daily, 3166 3111, arcade.cyberport.hk.

The Peak Galleria 118 Peak Road, The Peak 10am-10pm daily, 2849 4113, www.thepeakgalleria.com.

Aberdeen Centre Nam Ning Street, Aberdeen 7am-11:30pm daily, 2553 0860, www.achongkong.com.

Marina Square 12A-18A Haiyi Road, South Horizons www.marinasquare.com.hk.

Fusion Level 2, Parkview, 88 Tai Tam Reservoir Road, Repulse Bay. ✆ 2812 2675 Shop 3, Level 1, Service Annex, Cyberport. ✆ 2989 6030.

Unit 9, G/F, Marina Tower, Aberdeen Marina Club, 8 Shum Wan Road. ✆ 2873 3506 Unit A, G/F, Manhattan Heights, 83 Cachick Street, Sai Wan. ✆ 2855 1277 Park ’n' Shop Superstore Unit 302, 3/F, Marina Square West, South Horizons, Ap Lei Chau. ✆ 2603 4020 G/F, Aberdeen Centre 1, 13 Nam Ning Street, Aberdeen. ✆ 2873 4105 Shop A & B, 17-35 Belcher’s Street & 36 Kennedy Town Praya, Kennedy Town. ✆ 2816 6655 Shop 201, 3/F, Chi Fu Landmark, Pok Fu Lam. ✆ 2550 8591 Taste Shop 201-203, 2/F, Stanley Plaza. ✆ 2813 8520

International Block 32, UG2, Baguio Villa, 550 Victoria Road, Pok Fu Lam. ✆ 2550 6247 Shop 2, G/F, Wing Cheong Court, 37 Bonham Road, Sai Ying Pun. ✆ 2549 4178

Horizon Plaza 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau, Aberdeen 10am-7pm daily, 2554 9089.

Marketplace by Jasons Shop G128, Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay. ✆ 2812 0340 Shop 116, Level 1, the pulse, Repulse Bay. ✆ 2595 1200 UG/F, Clovelly Court, 12 May Road, The Peak. ✆ 2849 7307 Shop 8, G/F, Island Crest, Second Street, Sai Ying Pun. ✆ 2915 7197

the pulse 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay 10am-10:30pm daily, 2815 8888, www.thepulse.com.hk.

Wellcome 1/F, 2-4 Watford Road, The Peak. ✆ 2849 7576 Shop G25. G/F, Red Hill Plaza, Tai Tam. ✆ 2813 1783 UG/F, 63 First Street, Sai Ying Pun. ✆ 2549 3561 G/F Fullagar Industrial Building, 234 Aberdeen Main Road, Aberdeen. ✆ 3755 4974 Shop A&B, G/F, Coble Court, 127 Ap Lei Chau Main Street, Aberdeen. ✆ 3571 9563

The Repulse Bay 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay, www.therepulsenbay.com.

Stanley Plaza 23 Carmel road, Stanley 8am-11pm daily, 2813 4623, www.stanleyplaza.com.

Redhill Plaza 2 Red Hill Road, Tai Tam, 6101 3333, www.hshd.com.hk/miniweb/redhill.

One Island South 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang.

Southside Family Guide | 51

health & beauty

Health & Fitness Your body is the greatest instrument you'll ever own. Treat it well.

Beachside training at 26 Coaching.

Fitness Gyms and studios Primal Strength Youth and adult fitness programmes combine strength movements with a nutrition plan to improve strength, body composition, mobility and energy. HKIS, 1 Redhill Road, Tai Tam, 5305 6323, www.primalstrength.com.hk.

Pure South Pure’s hybrid yoga and fitness location is right next to the beach and houses a café selling healthy drinks and snacks and a trendy apparel store. 1/F, the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 8200 0908, www.pure-fitness.com.

Circuit 25 Group circuit training. Every session includes 25 minutes of strength and resistance exercises, and 25 minutes of cardio, core and cool down.

Session are held at Aberdeen Sports Ground, 108 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, 6734 6662 or 6345 5486, www.circuit25.com/hk.

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Strive Fitness Offers group classes, personal training, corporate training and youth athletics. L4, The Arcade, Cyberport, Pok Fu Lam, 2338 9622, www.strivefitnesshk.com.

Flex Studio Classes and workshops for children and adults, from Pilates and yoga to cardio and Xtend Barre(™). Pre- and post-natal conditioning also available. Shops 308-310, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 2813 2212, www.flexhk.com.

Love Life HK Charlotte Douglas teaches yoga at Pok Fu Lam's West Island School on Tuesday evenings ($200 drop in; discount for block bookings).

Bring your own mat. Private instruction available. Check the website for weekend yoga retreats. www.lovelifehk.com.

Red Doors Studio Specialists in gong meditation.

21/F Lee Fund Centre, 31 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, 2110 0152, www.red-doors.com.

EPT Specialises in corrective exercise and body transformation for adults aged 35-55 and children aged seven to 16. Personal, semiprivate and group training available. Regency Centre Phase 2, 43 Wong Chuk Hang Road, 2552 9925, www.eliteptstudio.com.

Charlotte Douglas strikes a pose.

health & beauty Trybe Workouts with a difference. Trybe offers strength, conditioning and mobility training in classes that incorporate circus skills, gymnastics and dance. Regular classes for adults and kids, including gymnastics (7-9 years), youth athletics (10-13 years). Drop-in or monthly memberships available. Unit 209-210, 2/F, One Island South, Wong Chuk Hang, 3427 9017, www.trybehk.com.

Outdoors ApeFit Outdoor yoga and fitness classes in Repulse Bay and Stanley. Group and personal training available, www.ape.fit.

26 Coaching Focuses on the triathlon sports: biking, running and swimming, with group and personal coaching available for children and adults. The Youth Development Programme has placed many athletes onto National teams and covers track athletics, cross country, and triathlon.

20B E. Tat Factory Building, 4 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, www.26coaching.com.

SUP Yoga HK Offers SUP Yoga, SUP Fitness and SUP Meditation and Yin from March to November in Stanley and Sai Kung. From $500 for a 90-minute group class and $450 for a private session. www.supyogahongkong.com.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Wing Shing Medical Shop B, G/F, Kong Kai Building, 184 Aberdeen Main Road, Aberdeen, 2555 9929.

Clinics Maya Health Institute Specialises in homeopathy and nutrition. 20/F, Thyrse House, 16 Pottinger Street, Central, www.mayahealthinstitute.com.

The Round Clinic Caters almost exclusively to families, offering natural health treatments such as osteopathy, naturopathy and midwifery to parents and children. One Island South, 12/F, 1227-28, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 2648 2612.

OT&P Healthcare Offers a whole range of services, including family medicine (general practice). G205, The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay, 2813 1978, www.otandp.com.

Quality Health Care Medical Centre General practice. Shop 406, 4/F, Stanley Plaza, Stanley, 2812 2392, www.qhms.com.

Southside Family Health Centre Rooted in obstetrics and paediatrics, its services cover general practice and more. Suite 615, 6/F, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, 2592 9000, www.southside.com.hk.

Health Services

Midwifery

Nutrition

Annerley Midwives Offers classes, home visits and courses for domestic helpers. 17/F, Tak Woo House, Wo On Lane, 17-19 D’Aguilar Street, Central, 2983 1558, www.annerley.com.hk.

Corinne De Castro Corinne was inspired to create her own organic protein smoothie blends after a health scare and now sells them online and runs healthy living workshops at her home in Repulse Bay ($2,000 per person). www.moxoliving.com.

Physiotherapy

Opticians Grace Optical Centre Shop 305, 3/F, Stanley Plaza, 2899 0569.

Asia Medical Specialists This clinic integrates sports medicine and sports science, with additional in-house services including physiotherapy, podiatry, sports science and dietetics. www.asiamedicalspecialists.hk.

Pharmacies

Byrne, Hickman & Partners Offers physiotherapy and treatment for sports injuries. Shop G206, The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2812 7231, www.byrne-hickman.com.

Well Foot Health Care Centre Shop J, G/F, Phase 5, Aberdeen Centre, Nam Ning Street, Aberdeen, 2873 1638, www.wellfoot-hk.com.

Stanley Pharmacy Shop 303, 3/F, Stanley Plaza, 2813 7124.

Podiatry

Multi-studio memberships Access a range of classes and fitness studios with a monthly membership and no long-term contract. Certain restrictions apply - usually there is a limit on how many times you can visit the same studio in a month.

GuavaPass Unlimited classes from $1,288 for the first month. www.guavapass.com.

ClassCruiser Unlimited classes for $999 per month, www.classcruiser.com.

KFit Up to 10 classes every month for $699 per month, www.kfit.com.

Southside Family Guide | 53

health & beauty

Hair, beauty and spa Places to get pampered and preened.

The Benefit Salon at Stanley Plaza offers spray tanning services.

Nails, spa and beauty Benefit Cosmetics Makeup, brow services and spray tanning. Shop 201, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road, 3621 0909.

Sense of Touch Massage, facials, nails, hair removal and its own line of skincare products. G211, 1/F, The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2592 9668, and 3/F, Le Meridien Cyberport, 100 Cyberport Road, Pok Fu Lam, 2980 7698, www.senseoftouch.com.hk.

Skin Laundry Uses laser and light therapy to deep clean skin in less than 15 minutes with no downtime. Shop 205, the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2701 0256, www.skinlaundry.com.

Fung Foot City Cash only. 7/F, Goodview Centre, 12 Wu Pak Street, Aberdeen, 2580 5558.

Sabai Day Spa Face, body, nails and feet, including hair removal and brow shaping. 12A, G/F, Stanley Main Street, Stanley, 2104 0566, www.sabaidayspa.com.

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Arhome Spa Lab Offers aromatherapy products, treatments and workshops in Pok Fu Lam. 6018 5495, www.arhomespalab.com.

Flawless Spa Facials, massage, waxing and nails. 4/F, Sea Bird House, 22-28 Wyndham St, 2869 5868, www.flawless.hk.com.

Hair salons Pulse Aveda From $530. Shop 216, the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2149 1900.

Capelli Hair Salon From $540. G115-116, The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2592 9559, www.capelli.hk.

Spur Aveda From $260. Shop 302, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road, 2813 4298.

Studio S From $228*. UG/F, 50 Stanley Main Street, 2851 6993.

Blanc: Hair Spa From $530. Shop 212A, the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2149 1886.

Hair Room From $150. 3/F, Yue Fai Commercial Centre, 22-28 Aberdeen Main Road, 2552 9133. *Prices are for ladies shampoo, cut and dry.

health & beauty

Southside Family Guide | 55

clubs

CLUBS

Southside’s private membership clubs.

Established in 1851 in Chater Road, Central, the HKCC is the oldest cricket club in Asia. It had a pitch in Chater Gardens until 1975, when it moved to Wong Nai Chung Gap. DotCod, the club’s Central seafood restaurant and oyster bar in Prince’s Building, is a relic of those days and is open to the public.

Clubhouses 137 Wong Nai Chung Gap Road, www.hkcc.org Facilities Cricket, rugby, golf simulators, putting area, hockey, lawn bowls, netball, squash, three all-weather tennis courts, table tennis, bar, tenpin bowling alley, pool, jacuzzi and sauna facilities, gym, bridge, dance classes, dodgeball, games room, snooker room, video library, children’s playroom.

Joining fees $238,000 (subscriber), $1,288,000 (perpetuity corporate nominee) Monthly fees $1,625.

Waiting list Around three and a half years.

No. of memberships Over 2,300.

Top tip Those who win a place in the main sports team (cricket, hockey, lawn bowls,

56 | Southside Family Guide

Photo credit: Chan Lup Hang Harry

Hong Kong Cricket Club

netball, rugby, squash or tennis) may obtain accelerated sporting membership.

Did you know…11 of the 13 members of the Hong Kong cricket team died when the P&O

Steamship, SS Bokhara, sank in a typhoon on October 10, 1892. The team was returning from a match against Shanghai. Another 114 people also perished.

clubs

Aberdeen Boat Club

members at reduced rates (those aged between nine and 21 can join with no entrance fees and a monthly subscription of $200).

Rates based on age group.

Did you know…The old ABC Nissen hut appears in Enter the Dragon (1973) starring Bruce Lee.

Shek O Golf & Country Club

Photo credit: Ivan Chen

Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the ABC prides itself on its friendliness, with happy groups thronging The Gallery’s alfresco terrace overlooking Aberdeen Harbour on weekends.

More than just boating, there is also dinghy and keelboat sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, dragonboating, SUP, fishing and scuba diving.

Land-based activities include golf, karate and yoga. It runs regular regattas plus the Four Peaks Race, an overnight sailing and hill-climbing race up four mountains, and the more leisurely Classic Yacht Rally. Its sailing, kayaking and windsurfing courses are also open to non-members of all ages and abilities.

It has a reciprocal arrangement with Hebe Haven Yacht Club in Sai Kung.

Clubhouses Aberdeen and Middle Island, www.abclubhk.com.

Facilities Moorings, junks, dinghies, kayaks, paddle boards, dragon boats and keelboats, fitness centre, squash court, heated swimming pool, table tennis, table football, darts, snooker, library, playground.

Joining fees $5,000 (legacy) to $72,500 (associate). $800,000 (corporate debenture).

Monthly fees $1,350, plus a $350 minimum spend on food and beverage and $288 building levy.

Waiting list Only a few months, depending on category of membership applied for.

No. of memberships 1,280.

Top tip The new Youth Membership Scheme allows those aged under 29 to become

Unless you own property in Shek O or are particularly well-connected, the view of the Shek O Golf & Country Club from the Dragon’s Back is likely to be the closest you get to it. Established in 1919 and privately owned

by Shek O Development, it has the fewest members of any club on our list. It’s small but beautiful, with a golf course along the coast, a red-roofed colonial clubhouse and terrace overlooking Tathong channel.

Clubhouses 5 Shek O Road, Shek O, 2809 4458.

Facilities 18-hole golf course, 10-bay driving range, swimming pool, pro shop, coffee shop, lounge bar, function room and halfway house.

Fees Your guess is as good as ours.

Waiting list You could be waiting a lifetime.

No. of memberships Just a few hundred.

Top tip Guests must be accompanied by a member. At the sixth hole (“Land’s End”) players must drive across an ocean inlet.

Did you know…Located around the club are 26 expensive homes, whose owners are closely vetted by Shek O Development, which sublets the land. The vetting process still remains a mystery.

Southside Family Guide | 57

clubs

Hong Kong Country Club Opened in 1962 to break down social barriers between residents of all nationalities and races, the Hong Kong Country Club pioneered a cosmopolitan approach. Its membership system still reflects this, with applications dependant on openings in the relevant nationality quota. Staff tend to stay a decade or more, building relationships with members, and creating a friendly, tight-knit environment.

Recent renovations have given the club a new lease of life, although the highlight is still the

large lawn running down to Deep Water Bay. Clubhouses 188 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Deep Water Bay. Facilities Lawn, seven tennis courts, squash courts, health centre, bowling alley, swimming pool, multi-purpose courts, activities room, snooker, indoor and outdoor children’s area, teen room, pro shop. Six F&B outlets.

Joining fees $450,000 (ordinary membership), $5 million (corporate nominee).

Monthly fees $2,300.

Waiting list 10 years minimum.

No. of memberships 2,000.

Top tip Outstanding sportsmen and women aged 16-28 may be eligible for Junior Sports Membership ($200 entrance fee, plus $200 per month; 15 spaces).

Did you know…In 2010, the then French consul general was ejected from the club and later sent home to Paris - after being caught trying to steal two bottles of red worth up to $50,000 from the wine cellar.

Waiting list Membership is by Invitation only.

No. of memberships Around 3,600.

Top tip All non-members must be accompanied by members and may be

subject to extra charges Did you know…When it opened, full debentures cost about $50,000.

Aberdeen Marina Club Founded in 1984, Aberdeen Marina Club is one of the newest and most polished clubs on the Southside. With eight restaurants, a children’s Adventure Zone, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and various racquet sports, you won’t be bored. The club even has its own ice-skating rink. Managed by Shangri-la international, memberships is by invitation only. Interested parties are required to write a letter of introduction for the club’s consideration.

Clubhouses 8 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen, www.aberdeenmarinaclub.com Facilities Swimming pools, fitness centre, health club/spa, children's play area, tennis, squash & badminton, bowling alley & billiards room, chill zone, hair & beauty salon, pro shop.

Joining fees Everfine Membership Services has individual and corporate membership available for $2,650,000 (excluding transfer fees). Transfer fees start at $1,150,000.

Monthly fees $2,280.

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clubs

The American Club Founded in 1925, this member-owned club offers a small taste of home to Americans (apparently the burgers are particularly good), though there are membership options for non-US citizens as well. Its two clubhouses in Central and Tai Tam provide contrasting views of Hong Kong and the club has reciprocal agreements with over 80 other clubs across the globe. It also has a private box at the Happy Valley Racecourse.

Clubhouses Town Club, Exchange Square, Central; Country Club, Tai Tam; www.americanclubhk.com.

Facilities The Country Club is set on 3.5 acres in Tai Tam and has four restaurants, six tennis courts, fitness centre, clifftop spa, three-storey playzone and teen hangout, swimming pool, ballroom and a hair salon.

Joining fees $438,000 (American Individual) US citizens only, $2 million (corporate).

Monthly fees $2,570.

Waiting list 2-3 years for individual memberships, 3 months' wait for corporate debentures and temporary memberships.

No. of memberships 3,000.

Top tip The one-year temporary membership ($45,600 annual fee, plus $1,950 a month) is open to all nationalities.

Did you know…The American Club serves 250,000 meals a year.

Established in Happy Valley in 1889 by “thirteen golfing enthusiasts”, the Hong Kong Golf Club dropped the “Royal” from it’s name in 1996, ahead of the handover. Home of the Hong Kong Open since 1959, the waiting list for this exclusive golf club is said to be about 20 years. Li Ka-shing, who lives a few minutes away, is reported to be first on the Deep Water Bay course in the morning.

Clubhouses Deep Water Bay, Fanling www.hkgolfclub.org Facilities Nine-hole golf course (Deep Water Bay), three 18-hole golf courses (Fanling), 32-bay range, futsal court, street hockey court, two basketball courts, two tennis courts, coaching, golf shop, swimming pool, reading room, Mahjong room, children’s playroom, billiard room, chess room, gym, sauna, restaurant, pub.

Joining fees Everfine Membership Services has corporate memberships available for $16 million.

Monthly fees $3,000 (marriage), $2,210 (single).

Waiting list Up to 20 years.

No. of memberships Around 2,200.

Top tip Visitors are welcome at Deep Water Bay on weekdays (excluding public holidays), 9am-2pm. A handicap certificate is required,

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Photo credit : birdiegolfblog.com and deepsea_dweller - watchuseek.com

Hong Kong Golf Club

tipping of caddies is prohibited and there’s a strict dress code.

Did you know…The 10th hole at Fanling is called “Tommy Tucker”. From the tee, the view of the green is obstructed by a hill, which a caddy would climb to check if the fairway was clear and the player would shout, “Tak ng tak ah?” which meant “Can I hit it?”.

Through the backdoor Many clubs have reciprocal agreements with clubs in other countries, so if you hold any other memberships, check if you are entitled to use facilities here.

Phone a friend - most clubs allow members to bring a guest.

Sign up for a course. Some clubs open their facilities to non-members for free.

Sports clubs may offer fast-track membership to good players, although practice requirements may apply.

Show them the money. Those with the cash may be able to buy their way in by purchasing or renting a transferable membership on the secondary market.

However, transfer fees can be steep: the Hong Kong Golf Club transfer fee is $3.1 million for one membership listed

by Everfine Membership Services. www. evergolf.com.hk.

Many clubs have venues available for private hire for weddings or parties.

clubs Other options that won’t break the budget

Victoria Recreation Club

Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club Founded in 1890, this is one of the largest yacht clubs in the world. It was the only Hong Kong club that kept the "Royal” in its title post-handover, although its Chinese name is simply the Hong Kong Yacht Club.

Unsurprisingly, membership is contingent on an interest in rowing or sailing. The club offers sailing courses to non-members, though priority is given to members. Sitting under the umbrellas on the terrace of its Middle Island clubhouse is surely one of the most relaxing spots on Southside.

Clubhouses Kellett Island, Causeway Bay; Middle Island, Repulse Bay; Shelter Cove, Sai Kung; www.rhkyc.org.hk.

Facilities Sailing, rowing, dragonboating, moorings, berths (Shelter Cove), restaurants;

Kellett Island has four restaurants, a swimming pool, bowling alley, squash courts, snooker room, gym, book and video libraries and hardstands.

Joining fees $125,200 (married), $83,000 (single), $2.22 million (corporate nominee).

Monthly fees $1,350 (married), $1,045 (single) - same for corporate nominee.

Waiting list 4-6 weeks.

No. of memberships 12,000 members including overseas.

Top tip Crossed cheque deposit from $2,000 (varying depending on membership type), short term no joining fee required.

Did you know…The front of Kellett Island is believed to be the only original landscape on the Hong Kong harbour waterfront.

Maggie & Rose Originating from London, Maggie & Rose opened its first international branch in Hong Kong back in late 2015. The 9,000 sq-ft Hong Kong beach club is located on the third floor of the pulse with views over Repulse Bay and the South China Sea. Membership at the club covers the entire immediate family: up to four children, plus parents, carers, and grandparents. Prospective members must be proposed by an existing member.

Clubhouses The pulse, 301 (3/F), 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, hk.maggieandrose.com.

Facilities Themed play booths including scrabble, lego, graffiti, library and dolls house. There is also a movie room, plus art and cooking studios, with daily activity programmes. A large soft play area houses a ball pond, rope bridges and walkways, while the 7,000 sq-ft roof terrace includes a secret garden, alfresco dining, mud kitchen, outdoor play and a mini race-track. Holiday Kids’ Camps, brasserie, bespoke events and children’s birthday parties are also available.

Monthly fees $1,800 (includes four activities per month) to $8,000 (unlimited activities).

Founded in 1849 in Victoria harbour as the Victoria Regatta Club, the VRC now has two clubhouses: Deep Water Bay and Tai Mong Tsai in Sai Kung. It focuses on rowing of all descriptions - rowing, paddling, canoeing, kayaking, dragonboating - and open-water swimming. It also hosts the annual Deep Water Bay Dragon Boat Regatta, usually in April. Membership is $30,000 for an associate member, plus $1,430 per quarter, and less for sporting members, children (age 5-17) and junior members (age 18-28).

Details at victoriarecreationclub.com.hk.

St Stephen’s Beach Water Sports Centre The former British military sailing club in Stanley is now a government-run water sports centre, which runs public training courses and fun days and rents out kayaks, dinghies and windsurfers at bargain rates.

Participants must be aged eight or above and able to swim 50 metres. Enroll online, in person, by mail or by phone. Wind conditions may vary: the bay is relatively calm in autumn, which is a good time for novices to learn the basics; choppy seas in summer are ideal for those wanting to test their skills. The centre is open Wednesday to Monday, 8.30am-5pm (closed Tuesdays). Details at www.lcsd.gov.hk.

The Open Water Swimmers of Hong Kong

Waiting list Yes, it fluctuates monthly as the club reviews usage by members.

No. of memberships Over 300.

Top tip Membership includes 10 guest passes per year and an access package to Maggie & Rose’s Kensington and Chiswick clubs in the UK. Did you know…There are plans to open a city club and a country club.

This friendly group of swimming enthusiasts meets at 8:30am every Sunday morning at the main entrance to Repulse Bay beach.

Run by seasoned swimmer Ian Polson, there is no joining fee but all swimmers must use a safety buoy (provided).

Swimmers are split into three groups based on ability; newcomers must be able to swim two kilometres non-stop. On public holidays the group holds “adventure swims” in different locations. www.openwaterswimmershongkong.com, 9094 2101.

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marketplace

marketplace

To advertise, email ads@fastmedia.com.hk or call 2776 2772.

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contacts

useful numbers

EMERGENCY SERVICES (police, ambulance, fire)

999

EMERGENCY SERVICES (police, ambulance, fire): 999 Fire:  2723 8787 Rescue:  2735 3355 Marine:  2803 6267 CAR MECHANICS Auto Dynamics:  2858 7032 Dah Chong Hong Motor Service Centre:  2808 6666 Euro Prestige Motors Services:  2771 7557 Hoi Kwong Garage:  2572 5093 DRY CLEANING Beluga Dry Clean and Laundry:  2873 1484 Rainbow Laundry Co:  2832 5078 Stanley Dry Cleaning and Laundry:  2813 2062 ELECTRICIANS/HANDYMEN Dr Fix it all:  2525 0055 Speedy Drainage Cleansing:  3625 6064 Winkle Workshop:  2554 1269 GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS Agriculture & Fisheries (call centre):  1823 Health Department:  2961 8989 Southern District Council:  2814 5800 HONG KONG OBSERVATORY Website: www.hko.gov.hk General enquiries:  2926 8200 Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal Enquiries:  1878 200 HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD Visitor hotline:  2508 1234 HOSPITALS Public Grantham Hospital, 125 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen,  2518 2111 Queen Mary Hospital, 102 Pok Fu Lam Road, Pok Fu Lam,  2255 3838 Tung Wah Hospital, 12 Po Yan Street, Sheung Wan,  2959 7500 Private Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospitals, 2 Village Road, Happy Valley,  2572 0211 Canossa Hospital (Caritas), 1 Old Peak Road, Mid-Levels,  2522 2181 Hong Kong Adventist Hospital, 40 Stubbs Road, Happy Valley,  3651 8888 Matilda International Hospital, 41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak, Hong Kong,  2849 0111 KENNELS Royal Pets:  6314 9887 LOCKSMITH Wing Hung Locksmith:  2893 6795

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MAN WITH A VAN Easy Van:  3701 3701 GoGoVan:  3590 3399 PEST & TERMITE CONTROL Asia Pest Control:  2523 8855 Supreme Pest Control:  2814 7211 PHONE DIRECTORY ENQUIRIES English:  1081 Chinese:  1083 Overseas IDD:  10010 PLUMBERS Ah Choy Chan:  2555 2030 Ocean Electric and Drainage Works:  2832 9449 POLICE DEPARTMENTS Website: www.police.gov.hk Police hotline:  2527 7177 Stanley Police Station:  3661 1616 Happy Valley Police Station:  3661 1610 POST OFFICE Hong Kong Post hotline:  2921 2222 TRANSPORT Hong Kong International Airport, general enquiries:  2181 8888 MTR Train Service & Airport Express, 24-hr passenger hotline:  2881 8888 Taxis:  2804 2450 Taxi Lost and Found 24hr hotline:  1872 920 UTILITIES China Light & Power, 24hr hotline:  2728 8333 Towngas, 24hr hotline:  2880 6999 Water Supplies Department, customer services hotline:  2824 5000 VETS Pets Central North Point Hospital:  2811 8907 Hong Kong Animal Hospital, Aberdeen:  2553 6003 Home Vet:  9860 5522 Stanley Veterinary Centre:  2813 2030 Dr. Eric’s Animal Clinic, Happy Valley:  2893 2988 Happy Valley Veterinary Clinic:  2572 0977 Valley Veterinary Centre:  2575 2389 NANNIES & DOMESTIC HELPERS Naturally Nanny:  9650 4976, www.naturallynanny.com Rent-a-mum:  2523 4868, www.rent-a-mum.com HelperChoice: www.helperchoice.com

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