FAMILY | FOOD | HOME | HEALTH | TRAVEL
Mid-levels magazine
June 2017
junk it Your guide to junk season
Five minutes with…
... Allan Zeman, “father” of Lan Kwai Fong
Through the keyhole Inside the home of Maria Estrada
School’s out! The best summer camps for kids
A big day out to… Mai Po
Top of the pops
Fabulous gifts for Father’s Day
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Mid-levels magazine
The really useful magazine June 2017
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14 PEOPLE 4 Snaps! Life around Mid-levels THE PLANNER 6 Happening in June Events for your diary THINGS WE’D BUY 12 Top of the pops Gift ideas for Father’s Day NEWS 14 What’s going on? In your backyard FIVE MINUTES WITH... 16 Allan Zeman “Father” of Lan Kwai Fong LOCAL 18 A low blow? Activists urge to protect MidLevel’s low-rise buildings
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50 COVER STORY 20 Junks Your summer guide to junking FAMILY 24 School’s out Summer camps for kids EATING 36 Family affair Great restaurants for families. Plus Nibbles HOME & LIVING 42 Mi Casa Mexicana We tour the home of fashionista Maria Estrada
PICTURE THIS 50 “Hong Kong” A portrait of our city by American artist, Tracy Dennison TRAVEL
48 MY MID-LEVELS 64 Christian Mongendre The co-founder of MANA! and owner of HOME - Eat to Live on vegetarianism, nature and filmmaking
52 Kata Rocks A taste of the Balearic in Phuket. HOROSCOPES 58 Signs from the stars Adam White predicts your future. ZIM CITY 60 Paul Zimmerman on... ‘Park’n Walk’ schemes for the city
BIG DAY OUT 46 Mai Po Rory Mackay heads out to the wetlands
“YOU MISS 100% OF THE SHOTS YOU DON’T TAKE.” – WAYNE GRETZKY
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contributors
ng Cecilia Au Yeu
Lauren Yee
La uren is a fre el a nc e w rit er a nd edito r, g in is ct a pr bo rn a nd ra ise d in H on d u at e, ra g ol ho sc g Ko ng. W heth er w la C ecili a is a a in a ble it’ s tu ck in g into a bo st su d n a er d a re wl of he r fa vo urite jo u rn a list, a vi d wo nt on no od le s, or sip inte rn ed at th e ’s he S . st a pi ng on co ckta ils at si u lif esty le enth rs b u si n ess th e ne we st roo ft op ba ve co ow n d n a r, sh e lo ve s th e m a ny F in a n ci a l T im es n- ba se d se rv ice. T hi s co nt ra st s of th e cit io y pt sh ri e ca lls ho m e. Th is sc b n ew s on su op m ent pl a n s m onth sh e st ep s in sid e el ev d re on s rt th e ho m e of W hat m onth, sh e re po Th e Fro ck fo u nd er, M ). 18 e g a (p n ar a ia Estra da W in S he u n g (pag e 42).
ani
Trisha Harj
and on g er by birth k g on H a is a Tris h h e’ s a -cu lt u re k id. S a co nf u se d th ird Polit ics a n d Eco n o m ics p h y, g and re ce nt Philo so re a din g, w riti n s y jo en o h w g ra d u ate n g, sh e’ s sh e’ s n ot w riti en h W g. in ch sh e’ s sk et . T hi s m onth, ey k oc h d el fi g p la y in g d et a ils on H on h it w d re ve co 4). g ot pa re nt s ca m p s (pa g e 2 er m m su st e b K on g ’s
Want to write for Mid-levels Magazine? Contact editorial@fastmedia.com.hk
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people Mid-levels snaps
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have your say “What do you think about Union Church being partly developed into flats?”
There are definitely other places in the territory where apartments can be built. The territory clearly needs more apartments.
- Tom
This is a complex issue. I wasn’t really aware of the building, but I do think it’s nice to have variety, not just apartment blocks. We moved here a month ago, but my mum is from Hong Kong and she always goes on about how everything is changing so fast. We have a picture in our flat of old Hong Kong, when my mom was young and everything was so low and there were quite a few old style British buildings that I think added to the character of the area - to have fewer and fewer of those old buildings is a bit sad.
- Jen
I think it’s sad, but I don’t know the whole context. Housing is so expensive right now, maybe if they build more apartments the rent will lower or it will be good for the economy. It would be great if there were affordable apartments, for people who are in need.
- Marine It’s history. I think it’s worth keeping.
- Amy & Barnard I’m not surprised, its getting more crowded. I live on Caine Road and it’s already crazy. They put a giant high rise across from where I live. Traffic is getting worse and there doesn’t seem to be any more amenities - the number of grocery stores up here hasn’t changed much over time. You see residences coming up and shops going out of business because people can’t afford the rent. So you end up with massive buildings and not much to support them.
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planner
JUN 2-4
Dragon Boat Carnival
Three days of festivities and racing. The races take place on Victoria Harbour, with spectator viewing along the waterfront and the Promenade Event Space, near the Observation Wheel. Plus, enjoy beer at the San Miguel BeerFest, live music, a fleet of food trucks and activities and entertainment for kids. Free entry and a family-friendly atmosphere. For more information, visit discoverhongkong.com
JUN 1
Summer gift & lifestyle fair A ballroom full of homeware, fashion , accessories, food, gifts and kids’ stuff. Free entry. Open 10am-7pm at the Grand Ballroom, The Conrad Hotel, 88 Queensway, Admiralty.
JUN 1-8
Father’s Day workshop Make dad a stylish leather mouse pad for his desk at 513 Paint Shop, using the store’s eco-friendly paints and metallic foil. $300 per person (workshop lasts 2 hours). Sessions available from 12-7pm. To reserve a space, email shop@513paintshop.com. S513, 5/F PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, 2155 2282, 513paintshop.com
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We love dads.
Evolution Asia Yoga Conference
JUN 8-11
The Tiger Who Came To Tea A heartwarming tale about a tea-guzzling tiger. Expect oodles of magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos. The 55-minute production is recommended for kids aged 3+. Tickets from $195-435 at hkticketing.com or call 2547 7150.
JUN 9-11
My Fair Lady Join Eliza Doolittle on a journey of selfdiscovery, as she practices her ‘p’s and ‘q’s, guided by Professor Henry Higgins. Tickets from $250 at hkticketing.com. The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Drama Theatre, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai.
The Evolution Asia Yoga Conference celebrates its 10th anniversary with a spectacular lineup of over 160 classes, workshops and events. Entry is free if you want to check out the stalls and do some shopping, but you must register if you want to participate in the classes (there’s something for all levels, bodies and minds). Sign up before June 7 at asiayogaconference.com. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai.
JUN 2-4
happening in June
Language & Learning Centre 2/F Prime Mansion 183-187 Johnston Road, Wan Chai. Book your space at eventbrite.hk
JUN 3
Sting - 57th & 9th tour The music legend tours his latest album, 57th & 9th. See him perform live at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre with a threepiece band. Tickets from $588 at hkticketing.com
JUN 5
JUN 10
Kayak n Run Two races at Tai Tam Bay - a family race and adult race, starting at 8am and 9am, respectively. Check out the course route and register before June 6 at actionasiaevents.com
World environment day
JUN 7, 14, 21 & 28
CATCH Pamper & Playdate Series
JUN 2,5 & 9
Parent Effectiveness Training (P.E.T) workshop Taught since 1962, P.E.T. was developed by psychologist and three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Dr. Thomas Gordon. P.E.T. is designed to teach practical, logical communication skills and problem solving steps applicable to any demographic status of the parent and child.10am-1pm, Gobo Office, Room 702, Hung Kei Mansion, 5-8 Queen Victoria Street, Central. To register, email hello@gordonparenting.com
Newly launched, the CATCH Pamper & Playdate series is tailored for parents with young children who want flexible playdates. Parents can enjoy 30-minute massages while kids enjoy interactive play designed and run by trained early childhood professionals. $420 per parent and child; $100 for each additional child. Every Wednesday in June, 3-5:30pm, 2/F Soundwill Plaza II, 1 Tang Lung Street, East Point. Suitable for children aged 1 to 4. Younger babies are welcome. Address is subject to change. To register, visit catchapp. com.hk/pamperandplaydatejune2017/
Splash 2017
JUN 11
Fun open water swim races for kids aged 7-14 years old at VRC Deepwater Bay, 8am-midday. Lots of categories plus BBQ breakfast. For details and registration, visit skbasecamp.com
JUN 3
ESF Language & Learning Parents Workshop Sleep Training Solutions A workshop on sleep training for new babies, with information on feeding, nap and bedtime schedules. Tickets are $150. 4-5pm, ESF
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planner
UNTIL JUN 13
Kids’ Yoga Back by popular demand at Flex Studio. Suitable for ages 6 and up. Tuesdays from 4:15-5:15pm at Shops 308-310, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang. Call 2813 2212 or email info@flexhk.com
Song, Carousel, Oklahoma!, The King and I, Cinderella and The Sound of Music. The Fringe Underground, Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Road, Central. Tickets are $280 (including one drink); $224 for members from ticketflap.com/hongkongsingers
JUN 16
The Summer Ceilidh Get your kilt on for the annual Summer Ceilidh, hosted by the British Chamber of Commerce. Reel your way through the Flying Scotsman after enjoying a delicious three-course Scottish fare, washed down with plenty of whisky. Guests will be treated to free-flow drinks, a haggis addressing ceremony and guided Scottish reels. Open to dancers young and old, beginners and professionals. 8pm-1am. Held at Aberdeen Marina Club, 8 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen. Tickets are on sale now for $1,400 each (or $15,800 for a table of 12) at ticketflap.com/ceilidh2017
JUN 18
Father’s Day
JUN 11
SCREENAGERS: growing up in the digital age Are you watching your kids scroll through life, with their rapid-fire thumbs and a six-second attention span? Physician and filmmaker Delaney Ruston realised she was and decided to find out how it might impact their development. In this film, she explores struggles with social media, video games, academics and internet
Mums@PLAY bazaar
JUN 14
Shop, wine and dine with friends - find children’s books, gifts, swimwear, jewellery, crafts and more. Plus there’s a mini spa and play area for little ones. This is the last Mums@PLAY bazaar before the summer break. Free entry. 10:30am6:30pm, El Charro, The Arcade, Cyberport, Pok Fu Lam. Contact at mehroo@ mumsatplayevent, mumsatplay.com
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addiction and offers solutions on how adults can empower their kids to navigate the digital world. 3:30-5:30pm, Character Education Foundation, 4/F, Hong Kong China Tower, 8-12 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai. Tickets are $161.50 from eventbrite.com
JUN 15-17
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s A Grand Night For Singing A romantic and family-friendly musical revue showcasing the exhilarating music of Richard Rodgers and lyrics of Oscar Hammerstein II. The show explores the various stages of love, from young infatuation to courtship to commitment and the challenges and pain of enduring love. Featuring popular songs from Allegro, Me and Juliet, Flower Drum
See page 12 for gift ideas.
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planner
Un Jun t2il 4
Hong Kong Upside Down
Hong Kong-based photographers Tugo Cheng and Romain Jacquet-Largreze exhibit their work. Blue Lotus Gallery, 1606 Chai Wan Industrial City Phase 1, 60 Wing Tai Street, Chai Wan, bluelotus-gallery.com
JUN 27
Britney Spears Live in Hong Kong That’s right, Britney’s in town for one night only. The ‘90s pop icon will be performing her hit “Piece of Me” show in Hong Kong as part of an international tour, before she ends her four-year Las Vegas residency in December. Tickets from $588 at hkticketing.com. Arena, AsiaWorld-Expo, Cheong Wing Road, Chek Lap Kok.
Shek O as photographed by Tugo Cheng, Hong Kong Upside Down, June 24.
JUN 21, 22, 24
Stamford American School Open House Meet Superintendent Malcolm Kay, an experienced International Baccalaureate educator, to discover more about the school’s combination of a standards-based curriculum and individualized learning plans from age 5. Families will also get to participate in a Q&A session and meet Stamford’s Admissions Team. For families with children aged 5-13. Free admission. Two Exchange Square, Level 40, Suites 4005-07, 8 Connaught Place, Central. June 21 (12-2pm, 6–8pm), June 22 (12-2pm), June 24 (10am–12pm). To RSVP, email admissions@sais.edu.hk or call 2500 8688. sais.edu.hk
JUN 24
Bopfest Hong Kong 2017 Hong Kong’s international rockabilly event. Trix ‘O’ Treat, from Bangkok, will be rocking up a storm, supported by ‘The Triplejacks’ a new, high energy rockabilly band with members from Australia, UK and Hong Kong. The DJ’s from UK include Dave (Wobbly) Ross and CJ the DJ, who will both be playing tunes from the 50’s to now, from psychobilly to swing and all things in between. Tickets $300 from ticketflap.com/bopfest2017. Orange Peel Music Lounge, 2/F, 38-44 D’Aguilar Street, Ho Lee Commercial Building, Central.
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JUN 25
Bhutan Happiness A photography exhibition featuring images taken by children from Bhutan. The exhibition celebrates the third birthday of Ana By Karma, a social enterprise that supports women artisans to become financially independent by opening them to a new global marketplace. 3-6pm. Free admission, Unit A 2/F Nan Sang Building, 86 Belcher’s Street, Kennedy Town. For enquiries, email happy@anabykarma.com
UNTIL JUN 30
Le French May Arts Festival The annual festival celebrating all things French continues into June, with over 150 programmes covering art, dance, cinema, music, gastronomy and more. Highlights include an exhibition on the Musee de Louvre, a performance by dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet, European ballets and Hong Kong Ballet and a live jazz series. Every year le French GourMay honours a different wine and gastronomy region of France. This year, it celebrates Champagne. frenchmay.com
UNTIL JUN 30
Bubble football on ice Playing football on ice inside a bubble sounds like fun to us. Hire the ice rink for half an hour as a group of three to five for $2,000. All players must be above the age of 15. Cityplaza, Quarry Bay. Email icepalace@ swireproperties.com or call 2844 8688.
happening in June
BOOK NOW JUL 8 Sheko Challenge Join over 300 sports lovers, parents and kids, locals and expats in Shek O for the annual 2.2km Sheko Challenge Swim. Team up with friends to run or paddle, or both in the Trisolothon. The after-party includes beach water polo, barbeque and DJ-spun music. For
under-18s, there’s a kids’ beach swim (a 600m loop starting and finishing at Back Beach) - a great introduction to open water swimming. Race starts at 2 pm, Shek-O, Big Wave Bay. Finishes at Shek O Back Beach. To register, visit openwaterasia.com
UNTIL SEP 3 THRILLER Live Back by popular demand, this high-energy explosion of pop, rock, soul and disco takes the audience on a journey through Michael Jackson’s 45-year musical legacy. It has been performed close to 5,500 times in over 30 countries. Tickets from $180 at hkticketing. com. The Parisian, Macau.
NOV 27 Michael McIntyre’s Big World Tour The UK comedian is to perform in Hong Kong for the first time, entertaining audiences with his trademark observational comedy. Tickets from $488 at hkticketing.com or call 3128 8288. Show starts at 8pm. Star Hall, Kowloonbay International Trade & Exhibition Centre.
Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editorial@fastmedia.com.hk.
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things we’d buy Father’s Day cards $37 each from kikki.K www.kikki-k.com Shop 220, 2/F Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central, 2116 0870
Dragon Boat Paddle cufflinks $1,670 from Gifts Less Ordinary giftslessordinary.com
SQ38 Plano watch $1,950 available at squarestreet 15squarestreet.com 15 Square St, Tai Ping Shan
Daddy cool
QuietComfort 35 wireless headphones $2,888 from Bose bose.hk, Shop 2011, IFC, 8 Finance Street, Central
Fabulous Father’s Day gifts for dad Fibit - Charge 2 $1,298 available to purchase at Escapade www.escapade.com.hk 1/F, Merlin Building, 30-34 Cochrane Street, Central, 2851 0769
Tom & Teddy Turtles shorts $699 available at Escapade www.escapade.com.hk 1/F, Merlin Building, 30-34 Cochrane Street, Central, 2851 0769
Three-course Father’s Day lunch at Chesa $458 at The Peninsula hongkong.peninsula.com The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Kowloon, call 2696 6769 to reserve
‘HongKonger’ Flip flops (red) 228 from G.O.D $ www.god.com.hk G09-G14, G/F Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, 2915 2822, G/F & 1/F, 48 Hollywood Road, Central, 2805 1876
William toiletry case $1,450-1,650 from the Timothy Oulton bespoke experience (featured model is $1,650 in nappa mustard, crimson stitching, antique gold hardware). Pricing of bespoke pieces starts at $650 17 Gough Street, timothyoulton.com
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top of the pops Kami swimming trunks $1,400 from MAZU Resortwear ($2,000 for the father-and-son bundle) mazuresortwear.com
Saint Laurent Slim square-frame sunglasses $2,260 available to purchase at Harvey Nichols www.harveynichols.com Pacific Place, Harvey Nichols Pacific Place, 88 Queensway UE Wonderboom $899 from Ultimate Ears www.ultimateears.com
Men’s shirt folder $250 from inspired-collection.com (10 per cent of all profits donated to local charity, Society for Community Organisation), free shipping within Hong Kong
Power Plus (10,000 mAh) $150 from DOMA Lifestyle www.doma.com.hk Shop 202, 2/F, The Peak Tower, 120 Peak Road, 2503 0998 Shop 290, 2/F, Shun Tak Centre, 200 Connaught Road, Sheung Wan, 2110 9943
Hydrate & protect $300 from Selvedge Grooming www.selvedgegrooming.com
SAUCONY FreedomISO $1,100 available at Escapade www.escapade.com.hk 1/F, Merlin Building, 30-34 Cochrane Street, Central, 2851 0769
La Via Lattea cheese cutlery set (soft cheese knives) $2,995 from Town House townhouse.com.hk Wing On Yau Ma Tei, 345 Nathan Road, Kowloon
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news
Date announced for Great Hong Kong Cleanup Day
Black rainstorm causes flooding Connaught Road West was a victim of flash floods last month, in Hong Kong’s first official black rainstorm of 2017. On May 24, Central and Western received over 40mm of rain in one hour, some of the highest recorded in Hong Kong that morning. Drainage systems in MidLevels and other parts of the city were hard pressed to keep up. During the course of the day, photos emerged of one metre-high flooding in a car park in a residential estate in Quarry Bay. The government received 17 reports of flooding, 18 about fallen trees and three on landslides. The black rainstorm signal was hoisted at 11:30am, just a few hours after many commuters had braved the torrential storm, leading some to take to social media to question why Hong Kong Observatory had issued the signal after many people had already arrived at work. Under Labour Department guidelines, employees working indoors should stay where they are when the black rainstorm warning is in place.
Bookazine launches summer reading campaign For the seventeenth year running, Ecozine and Ocean Conservancy bring you the Great Hong Kong Cleanup Day. Taking place on September 23, the annual challenge is an opportunity to get out those rubber gloves and do away with the bottles, plastics and litter polluting our coastlines and killing our ecosystems. A key element of this initiative is the collection of data, which is processed by the Global Trash
Index and Trash Free Seas Alliance and used to understand the source of the harmful debris to help prevent it reaching Hong Kong again. Everyone is welcome, from businessmen to students. It’s a great opportunity to have a day out in the sun with your friends, family, classmates or colleagues and help clean up Hong Kong. Sponsor, hire a team or sign up a team at hkcleanup.org
Show me the mummy The Hong Kong Science Museum has gained exclusive access to three-thousand year old Egyptian mummies, originally part of the British Museum’s collection. The touring exhibition, Eternal Life: Exploring Ancient Egypt, will display the mummies like you’ve never seen them before, with a 3D visualisation made possible by computerized x-ray scanning, and disclose previously unknown theories about life in
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Ancient Egypt. Aside from the mummies, treasures in the collection include sculptures, architectural pieces and other relics. The British Museum’s Egyptian collection is the largest and most comprehensive collection of its kind outside Egypt, making it a must see. Begins June 2 until October 18. 2 Science Museum Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui East, 2732 3232, hk.science.museum
With the summer holidays just around the corner, Bookazine has launched a new campaign to encourage people of all ages to read more. Visit any Bookazine store and get a Summer Reading Card. For every book purchase of $80 or more, you’ll get a stamp. For every 10 stamps you collect, you will receive a $100 Bookazine voucher. If you’re not sure what to go for, Bookazine book experts have picked three books in 10 different categories: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Business, Feel Good, Thrillers, Sci Fi, Picture Books, Tweens, Teens and Young Adults. Open to the whole family, the campaign runs until the end of August. Check online for Bookazine locations, including Shop 1, G/F, Oriental Commercial Building, 46 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, 2970 3999. bookazine.com.hk
news
New bar opens on Wyndham Street Moroccan inspired bar and lounge LILYA has opened on Wyndham Street, transporting guests to the magical riads of Marrakech with its royal architecture, vibrant atmosphere and plush couches. Drinks are concocted by awardwinning mixologist Younes Ateyah. Signature items include Oriental Fashion, featuring twenty-seven different Moroccan spices, and Majorelle, a tribute to Yves Saint Laurent who gifted the Jardin Majorelle to Marrakech. Pair any one of these with a succulent Saddle of Lamb or a rich Harissa Beef Tenderloin. Set in the thick of the city’s nightlife it’s an ideal spot for a couple of drinks or a relaxing dinner. For bigger parties, book out the private room which holds up to 15. 2/F, 77 Wyndham Street, Central. For reservations, call 2526 2578 or email info@lilya.com.hk, diningconcepts.com/ restaurants/Lilya
New shopping subscription service for kids’ clothes Hate shopping but need regular supplies of baby clothes for growing little ones? Newly launched online store Little Starters could be the solution. Founded by best friends Leisia Tsang and Ellen Ogren after a decade of working with fashion brands, Little Starters offers a tailored subscription service for kiddies’ clothes. Here’s how it works: parents take a short online style quiz to determine their kids’ fashion, then receive personalised deliveries of seven mix-and-match pieces at a time (choose from three delivery frequencies). Within seven days, the whole box, or any item, can be returned for free. Keep the entire box and get 20 per cent off. Each box of clothing will increase in size to keep up with growing kids. The brand is suitable for newborns to four-year-olds. It introduces new prints every four weeks and maintains a year-round core collection. Check it out at littlestarters.com
HKSAR turns twenty This July, it will be twenty years since Hong Kong was handed over to China, adopting our singular “one country, two systems” policy. To commemorate the anniversary, HKSAR has invested $640 million in a series of celebratory events running through the entire year. Throughout the month of June, dotted around Mid-Levels, there will be cultural, educational and historical events presented by Guangzhou University College of Music and Dance, Hong Kong Maritime Museum, Hong Kong Maritime Museum and more. Highlights include a Belt and Road Experience Sharing Forum for young professionals to share their experiences in belt and road countries, an exhibition of 200-year-old paintings in Pirates of the South China Sea and Tung Sin Tan’s Chinese Opera - a free viewing of a traditional Cantonese opera for 1,000 elderly people. This year’s dragon boat carnival, running from June 2-4 is also part of the events. Over 100,000 spectators are expected to watch proceedings at the Central Harbourfront. For more information visit hksar20.gov.hk
Sainsbury’s comes to Hong Kong The UK’s second biggest supermarket chain, Sainsbury’s, is now exporting to Hong Kong. Over 200 Sainsbury’s products are now available at Market Place by Jasons and selected Wellcome, ThreeSixty and Jasons stores throughout the city - from cheeses,
cereals and coffee, to frozen vegetables and tinned foods. The products have all been tested in the UK and are GMO free. There are four different product lines to choose from: “by Sainsbury’s”, “Taste the Difference”, “SO Organic” and “freefrom”.
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five minutes with
Mid-levels Allan Zeman magazine
Publisher
Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk
Editorial
Editor-in-Chief Shreena Patel shreena@fastmedia.com.hk Contributing Editor Carolynne Dear carolynne@fastmedia.com.hk Acting Editor Eric Ho eric@fastmedia.com.hk Editorial Assistant Trisha Harjani trisha@fastmedia.com.hk
Design
Design Manager Cindy Suen cindy@fastmedia.com.hk
The “father” of Lan Kwai Fong talks to Shreena Patel about why he moved to Hong Kong, creating LKF and saving Ocean Park I grew up in Montreal, Canada. As a teenager I started my own business, importing ladies’ sweaters from Hong Kong into Canada and North America. By 19, I’d made my first million dollars (USD). That was also the year I first came to Hong Kong, on a buying trip. I had to pay a lot of tax in Canada (over 50 per cent) so, while I was in Hong Kong, I asked what the tax rate here was. They told me it was 15 percent.
Graphic Designer Anna Schulteisz anna@fastmedia.com.hk
Thanks to
Adam White Cecilia Au Yeung Cora Chan Kate Davies Lauren Yee Mehul Dhakka Millie Dicken Paul Zimmerman Rory Mackay Tracy Dennison Viola Gaskell
Published by
Fast Media Floor LG1, 222 Queens Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
By 19, I’d made my first million dollars
In those years, visiting Hong Kong was like visiting the moon. It was a British colony and the hardest thing for me was to understand the British accent. But I loved the energy here, the can-do spirit. Hong Kong was a place you could have a dream and make it a reality so I decided to move out here. Everyone thought I was crazy, but from the moment I arrived, I considered this to be home. I set up my own supply chain management company and I’ve been here for 48 years now. Even back then, Hong Kong was very expensive. I felt that it was important to own your own property to lock in your overheads, so the first thing I did was buy an office space and a house.
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A to Z
My first office was in Wing On Plaza in TST and my house was in Chung Hom Kok - not where I live now, but in a place called Hillgrove. My kids went to school in the Southside. Once I controlled my own property I realised that it kept increasing in value. So if I had money - it was easy to get mortgages in those years - I would take a chance and buy more. I set up a company called Colby International which exported merchandise to 35 countries, so I was constantly traveling .
and Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa asked me to visit and see if there was anything I could do. At the time I thought he was crazy, but I went. I always look at things, not for what they are, but for what they could be. When I visited Ocean Park I saw beauty. The park was falling apart, but with some TLC I thought we could make it something very special. So, I undertook to put a team together - knowing nothing about theme parks myself - and rebuild it.
Under British rule, there weren’t a lot of street restaurants in Hong Kong - most restaurants were in hotels and they were quite formal, you had to wear a jacket and tie. Coming out of the fashion business, we didn’t do that.
I still live in Chung Hom Kok, a little peninsula between Stanley and Repulse Bay. My house is right on the water, I face a magnificent view over Stanley Bay. The house is built onto a cliff - it’s got seven floors and it’s all glass, so it’s quite unique.
I always look at things, not for what they are, but for what they could be
Along the way, when Disney was coming to Hong Kong, I got a call from the government. Ocean Park was losing money and they didn’t know what to do...some people said close it, some said sell the land. I’d never been there
SARS was obviously a very scary time. People didn’t know what it was or where it was coming from. It turned man against man. People didn’t trust their families, were afraid to touch the button of a lift. But we recovered quickly and have moved on since then.
I’ve exercised for an hour and 20 minutes every day for the last 36 years
I decided the city needed a place where lifestyle could prevail and people could meet, so I went around and found the area where LKF is now. It was just a little street off of Central, in those days it was called Fringe Central. There were a lot of office buildings and a few restaurants. I saw something very beautiful that had great potential.
Nobody knew what I was doing. I slowly started to buy property in the area and convert some of the office buildings into restaurants and offices. All the beautiful people in Hong Kong started to come to LKF and hang out. It became the place to see and be seen. It was an instant success - I continued to buy up property there and became one of the largest landlords in the vicinity.
the Handover. It was a rainy day and I was invited to the have lunch on the HMS Britannia with Prince Charles in the afternoon. After midnight, I remember being in the Convention Centre and watching Prince Charles and President Jiang Zemin sign the agreement. It was like living in a history book.
We spent $5.5bn to upgrade Ocean Park. It became a huge success and for 11 years in a row it beat Disney which was unheard of. Five years ago it won the Applause Award, which is like the top theme park award in the world. It was a very great achievement for Hong Kong. We also decided to add two hotels, now under construction - Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel and The Fullerton Hotel @ Ocean Park. We worked with the government to extend the MTR to the Southside which has brought more people to Ocean Park and helped to reduce traffic in the Aberdeen Tunnel. Everytime I drive home at night I look at the MTR and I feel really proud that I had something to do with it. Another momentous time for me was during
We have many projects right now. One area of expansion is China. We have a project under construction in Shanghai, also Wuxi, Chengdu and Shenzhen. In Hong Kong, since the success of California Tower, we are looking at other buildings where we can do something similar. We’re also looking at two projects in Phuket, Thailand - we have the Andara brand there. As for digital, we will be launching LKF TV and LKF games - we’re also involved in film. When you have so many businesses, you face a lot of challenges: things that have to be solved, staff problems, coming up with new products. I’m also very involved with the government. Sometimes Hong Kong’s problems become mine. I don’t usually listen to advice, but the best piece of advice I have to give is to be a good person, have confidence in yourself, have a dream and try to make it a reality, think out of the box and exercise everyday. I’ve exercised for an hour and 20 minutes every day for the last 36 years. M
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local
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Mid-levels Magazine is published by Fast Media Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Mid-levels Magazine 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 pubishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.
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A low blow?
A visual protest against the URA’s high-rise scheme.
Activists and residents urge to protect historic Mid-levels neighbourhood from urban redevelopment. By Cecilia Au Yeung
A
collection of historic low-rise tenement buildings in Sheung Wan is facing the prospect of redevelopment, under the latest plans of the Urban Renewal Authority (URA). The buildings (known as tong lau) are located in the vicinity of Staunton Street, Shing Wong Street and Wing Lee Street, a neighbourhood with low-rise tenements, terraces, lanes and stepped streets. The URA’s plans, which include replacing the tenement buildings with two high-rise residential blocks (at sites “B” and “C”), have attracted controversy, in particular because they appear to contradict a commitment it made in 2013 to revitalise one of the buildings. The URA has been acquiring property in the area for its “H19” urban redevelopment scheme since 2008. In 2011, The Town Planning Board (TPB) removed Wing Lee Street (site “A”) from the scheme. In 2013, the URA pledged to revitalise the tenement building at Nos. 88-90 Staunton Street and build a 13-storey residential complex behind it, along Shing Wong Street (Site B) plus a 19-storey residential complex along Chung Wo Lane (Site C).
But in the URA’s latest application, submitted to the TPB in April, it proposes increasing the size of the residential complex at Site B from 13 storeys to 20 storeys (the plan for Site C remains unchanged). Under the new plans, the tenement building at 88-90 Staunton Street would be demolished, along with other
A petition... against the URS’s application...has so far received 3,007 signatures
tenement buildings that fall into the redevelopment area. According to the URA’s application, the tenement buildings are “in a very poor and dilapidated and decaying condition”. The scheme would add 204 residential units to the property market. A petition launched by the Central and Western Concern Group against the URA’s application has so far received
3,007 signatures. Katty Law, convenor of the group, says the new high-rise scheme will destroy the historic neighbourhood. She also claims that the application misrepresents the current condition of Site B. According to her understanding, after receiving repair orders from the Buildings Department, the owners of the tenement building took corrective action and have received letters confirming that the buildings are now in compliance with construction requirements. District councillor Kathy Siu also opposes the plans. “The URA’s application goes against a peoplecentred approach,” she says. “The proposed high-rise buildings will change the landscape, natural lighting and airflow around the area.” Siu is also concerned that the redevelopment scheme will exacerbate the already problematic traffic conditions at Staunton Street and Bridges Street, affecting the accessibility of schools and NGOs situated in the area. In March, the Central and Western District Council passed a motion unanimously against the URA’s redevelopment scheme, urging the TPB to reject the URA’s application. Ms. Hung, a Mid-levels resident
conserve & protect
Tenement building (88-90 Staunton Street).
and mother of two, said she hopes the heritage sites in the Central and Sheung Wan districts will be conserved for future generations, not replaced by luxury apartments that average Hong Kongers cannot afford. She believes the URA’s scheme also goes against Hong Kong Tourism Board’s recent promotion of “Old Town Central”, which encourages visitors to explore the historical architecture and quintessential neighbourhoods of Central and Sheung Wan. A URA spokesperson said, “The sites
Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Old Town Central promotion.
involved in the current redevelopment scheme, including 88-90 Staunton Street, is not zoned as conservation area,” but declined to comment on the unanimous motion passed by the Central and Western District Council against the scheme. At the time of writing, the TPB has received 3,540 comments on the URA’s application and will host a meeting on June 9, tentatively, to review it. View the petition online at supporthk.org/en/node/4357 M
Did you know... Tenement buildings were built between the mid-19th and mid-20th century in response to the rising population and the critical shortage of living space at the time. The ground floor usually operated as a retail shop and the other storeys as residential space.
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cover story
Junk it
Your guide to junk season. By Millie Dicken and Trisha Harjani
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all aboard! Michelangelo
Hong Kong Junks
Cruise Hong Kong waters in style aboard the Michelangelo. The classic 80ft yacht holds up to 59 passengers and measures 4,000 sq ft over three decks. The Captain, A On, can take you on seven different scenic routes, including Sai Kung, Clearwater Bay and the islands of the Ninepin group. Finding it hard to choose? Customize your trip by selecting a few specific islands and your preferred length of stay. Extras such as private chef, on board DJ and Jazz Band are also available upon request. 9037 6799, info@michelangelocruises.com, michelangelocruises.com
All three of the company’s teak junks were built in Aberdeen Harbour. The largest accommodates up to 40 people. Get picked up in Aberdeen or Central and sail around the Southside or head further afield to Clearwater Bay. Fully catered and boat only options available, as well as water sports and DJs. All-inclusive packages start from $600 per person; boat-only packages also available. Extra activities and equipment available on request at additional cost. Call 2840 1588 or visit hongkongjunks.com.hk
Island Junks Island Junks offer two styles of boat: beautiful Chinese teak junks and the recently arrived Ibiza - much faster than regular junks and, as the name suggests, great for parties. The boats are each licensed for 40-50 passengers. All are equipped with fully-fitted galleys (kitchens), showers and toilet facilities, iPod/smartphonecompatible sound systems (with speakers on both decks), as well as sun-canopies and beanbags for lounging around on. Island Junks provide kayaks, large floating platforms and swimming noodles as standard - as well as sun-screen & toiletries. BBQ, speedboats, Thai massage, DJs and stand up paddleboards are available at additional cost. All-inclusive, BoatOnly and Boat-Plus-Drinks packages available. Prices start at $350 per adult and $200 per child (4 to 12 years) for a full day boat-only charter (a minimum charge applies). For details, visit islandjunks.com.hk, call 2877 5222 or email info@islandjunks.com.hk
Sea Lagoon Hire a junk off peak from $5,500 ($8,500 during peak season). Add on a speedboat for an extra $3,500. Junk boats hold a maximum of 30 people. Cruisers are more expensive ($25,000100,000) but can hold 45-50 people. Free pick up points include Central, Causeway Bay, TST and Aberdeen. There is a surcharge for pick ups in Sai Kung, Discovery Bay, Mui Wo and Gold Coast. Call 2165 4196, sealagoon.com
Michelangelo’s junks are fitted with luxury features.
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cover story
Aqua Luna Soak in the views aboard one of Hong Kong’s few remaining red-sail Chinese junk boats. Aqua Luna’s 45-minute evening cruise (starts from $195) takes you across Hong Kong Harbour where guests can watch the Symphony of Lights and enjoy a complimentary drink. Aqua Luna operates cruises around Victoria Harbour throughout the week and afternoon cruises to Stanley at the weekend. The recently launched Aqua Luna II is a bigger and newly decorated traditional junk-style boat and is also running the same routes throughout summer. For parties and corporate events, private charters start at $10,000 per hour and can accommodate up to 80 people, plus a 10 percent service charge - (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 aqualuna.com.hk
Lazy Days Lazydays’ fleet includes five sleek, modern cruisers and a luxury junk. Toys for hire include giant inflatable slides, inflatable trampolines, giant island loungers and floating platforms. 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 $790pp
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and boat-only hire from $450pp. You’ll find “bikini-friendly”, paleo and full vegetarian menus in addition to Lazydays’ famous roast- or burgercentric options. A new option for weekday trips is a decadent afternoon tea selection served with gourmet teas or free-flow bubbly - perfect for friends or out of town guests. 3488 1534, info@lazydays.com.hk lazydays.com.hk
Breakaway Not your average charter, Breakaway is a luxury yacht charter companying that provide catering, drinks and services to customers. Offering various packages like the A Day at Sea which is a full day boat trip (starting at $15,900 for 15 people). The package includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks all day as well as inflatable toys and kayak. 6180 5059, booking@ breakawayhk.com, breakawayhk.com
Hello Hong Kong Offers day sailing, romantic dinner cruises and overnight eco adventures. The largest boat Michelangelo - fits up to 55 people. Most boats have a pick-up point in Southside, Repulse Bay, Deep Water Bay, South Bay, Poi Tom Island, Central, Aberdeen, Sai Kung or Hebe Haven. Prices start at $7,700 for a six-hour (day) or four-hour (evening) charter for up to 30 people excluding food and drink. The romantic evening dinner cruise starts at $10,200 to
$13,200 and can hold up to 4 people. Food and drink packages and watersports add-ons are available. Browse the full range of options and book online at hellohongkong.com.hk, 9704 4108.
Hong Kong Yachting Hong Kong Yachting’s junk packages are $680/ person for a traditional junk. Upgrade to one of the flagship boats - Jungle Jane or Tarzan - for $850/person. Jungle Jane and Tarzan turn heads with their size, 22-foot swimming platform, inflatable slide and funky lounge furniture. Seated dinners can be held on the large deck area. 2526 0151, hongkongyachting.com
Standard Boat This long-established company has a fleet of wooden junks, luxury motorboats, yachts and
Photo by Brent Pottinger
all aboard!
even ferries available for hire. A range of catering options can be ordered with rental at an extra cost. Boats start at $5,000 per day for fiberglass or wooden junks with a seating capacity of approximately 25 people. Departs from Central Pier 9, TST or Aberdeen. 2570 1792, www.standardboat.hk
Jaspa’s Junks Known as the party junk, Jaspa’s Junks offers customizable packages on one of their six boats fitted with sound systems and a fully equipped kitchen. Packages include food and unlimited drinks ($750 per person with a minimum booking of 14 people). Pick up available from Pak Sha Wan Pier and Causeway Bay. 2792 6001, jaspasjunk@casteloconcepts.com, casteloconcepts.com
Vikings Charter Offers various fleets of catered or non-catered junks for up to 40 guests. Pick-up points include Causeway Bay, Central, Aberdeen, Deep Water Bay, South Bay, Repulse Bay or TST. Additional speedboats for banana boating, water-skiing and wakeboarding can be requested for two hours at $1,000. Boat rental starts at $5,500 from 10am to 6pm for a non-air conditioned boat, excluding any food or additional equipment included. Contact on 2814 9899, vikingscharters.com.hk
NextWave Charters Experience luxury aboard NextWave Charters fleet of 40 boats including yachts, junks and sailing boats. Enjoy a hassle free day on the water by choosing their catering and drinks packages, leaving all the planning to the team at NextWave Charters. Their boats can hold up to 40 people with prices ranging from $8,500 to $15,800. 2335 0688, charters@nextwaveyachting.com, nextwavecharters.com
The all-inclusive package costs $700 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, including Aberdeen and Stanley. Additional speed boat service for the day costs $3,600 for three hours of wakeboarding, including a banana boat. 2559 0144, delicious-hk.com
hidden island tours, watersports, wedding packages and more. The starting price for one day is $30,000 and jet skis are also available as a $1,500 add-on. Pick ups from Sai Kung, Aberdeen, Gold coast and Kowloon. Catering and drinks are available at extra cost. M Yachts also offer guests a video package where a professional videographer can be hired to capture all the stunning and unique moments of the cruise journey with a DJI Mavic Pro Drone. Alternatively, guests can get behind the camera and take their own footage using a GoPro Hero 5. The M Yachts team will then create a short video highlighting the whole experience. Email info@myachts.asia or visit myachts.asia
Boat And Boating Co., Ltd.
Koh Thai Junks
Choose from a selection of yachts. The weekday package for a luxury yacht including two hours of wakeboarding for 25 people costs $12,000. Sail to either Lamma Island or South Bay. Additional catering available on request. Call 21541320 or visit boatandboating.com
Koh Thai brings its much loved authentic Thai cuisine out to sea on one of seven boats. Boats can sail to a number of beaches dotted around Sai Kung, Clearwater Bay and Hong Kong Island. Add on water sport activities like wakeboarding, banana boating and extreme body surfing at extra cost. Prices start at $680 per person with a minimum booking of 20 people - price includes a Thai buffet. 2668 1468, junks@kohthai.com.hk, kohthai.com.hk M
Delicious HK
M Yachts Rooted in luxury, M Yachts’ concierge team crafts personalised itineraries and organises events that go beyond the yacht, including harbour view parties, island celebrations,
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family
School’s out !
Trisha Harjani rounds up the best camps for kids and teens this summer
Academic Anglo Academy
The only local summer boarding experience in Hong Kong; a week long prestigious preparatory course for students to get a taste of traditional British schooling. Based in Harrow International School and United World College of Hong Kong, The course emphasises academics, sports and character-building skills. Accepting students 7-18 years old. Priced at $11,050. anglo-academy.com
camp runs for four days from June 19 to July 28. $2,800 per 5-day camp. 2157 9595, auntietamscentre.com
Brainchild Calling all brainiacs, this project-based camp runs for one week.. Focusing on STEM subjects, the courses teach the basics of programming, 3D printing, robotics and scratch programming with all materials provided. Runs through June 26 until August in Aberdeen. Starting at $1,800 per week with 10 per cent early bird special if you register and pay before June 15. brainchildltd.com
Canadian International School
Little ones on the field at Harrow International School
Auntie Tam’s Summer Camps
Twist your tongue with one of Auntie Tam’s language camps offered in English and Mandarin located in Wong Chuk Hang. Alternatively, challenge your creativity with a Pick & Mix camp in creative writing, sewing, music theory, mandarin origami, phonics and reading. Each
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CDNIS offers a diverse selection of immersive summer courses from iOS app development to inline skating. Presented by the the likes of University of Cambridge, Summer Music Academy, Vienna Boys Choir and Camp Biz Smart. Suitable for kids from 3-18 years old, the camp runs from June 12 to August 4 at CDNIS at Wong Chuk Hang. Starts at $3,960 for nonCDNIS. Bus services are available from Central Pier No.4 to CDNIS via Central Post Office, Admiralty MTR and Leighton Road, Causeway Bay. activities@cdnis.edu.hk, cdnis.edu.hk
summer lovin’
Mini masterpieces at Elephant Community Press
Interactive learning at ESF Summer Camp
Coast to Coast Making lives easier for young students, this preparatory, UK-based boarding school camp facilitates the transition from Hong Kong private school to British boarding schools or universities. Get to know your second home by spending one month in the scapes of Surrey Hills at Belmont Prep School, only an hour’s drive from London. Promotes confidence in the English language and provides a comprehensive introduction to boarding life in England. £2,200. Running from July 11 to August 8. coastschools.com
Elephant Community Press Shaping budding authors and avid young readers, these one-week workshops aim to instil the foundations of good storytelling and creative writing. Themed classes allow students to try something totally new or deepen their love for a particular genre. Running from June 19 to August 25 in Central. Aimed at 4-14 year olds.3487 3153, elephantcommunitypress.com
ESF Language & Learning Summer Camp Never has learning been more fun as Commander Earth invites you on his time-travelling cosmic quest. Training students in reading, writing, English speaking and listening, this programme is an immersive experience designed to improve children’s confidence in their communication skills. Additional camps feature primary school science, playgroup, Spanish and theatre learning. Full day camps available at Renaissance College and South Island School. Language courses in the morning. Running from July 10 to August 25. Starts at $6,300 2711 1280, esf.org.hk
ESF Sports Summer Camp & Clinics Get moving with ESF’s summer sports camps designed for sport novices and experts alike. Choose from the specialist gymnastic, tennis and swimming clinics or opt for the Multi Sport Camp that promotes a wider active skill set by playing a range of sports and engaging in team-building and developmental activities. Specialist clinics target one sport, cultivating specific skills and developing children’s love for the sport. Available at Renaissance College and South Island School. Sports camps in the afternoon. Camps run from July 3 to August 11. Starts at $6,300 2711 1280, esf.org.hk
First Code Academy Go geeky this summer and discover your inner computer whiz with one of First Code Academy’s five-day programmes. Whether it’s building an app or a computer that you fancy, their comprehensive range of courses are suitable for kids 5-18 years old, at all experience levels. Standout courses include robotics, 3D printing, scratch programming and minecraft modding. Classes are located in Sheung Wan, Yau Ma Tei, HKFYG Island South and Kwun Tong. Begins June 12. Starts at $4,680 hk.firstcodeacademy.com
GAIA Language Geared for children looking to polish their bilingual fluency, this program encourages a holistic learning experience with a reading, listening and comprehension or writing focus. With both Spanish and Mandarin on offer, the GAIA language summer course also includes a parallel science or music class and field trips. Running for two weeks beginning on July 3 in Central. $3,500 and up gaialanguage.com
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family Kellett School A far-reaching course including sport, drama, academic and music activities for kids. Two whole weeks of jam-packed fun and education. Located at the famous Kowloon Bay campus from July 3-14. Suitable for ages 5-18 years old. Starts at $3,000 per week. kellettschool.com
Southside Mandarin
Koding Kingdom The stepping stone to Silicon Valley, Koding Kingdom offers classes for kids (5-7), juniors (7-11) and teens (11-15) including those with special needs. Located in Cyberport, Lai Chi Kok, Kwun Tong and Science Park, the summer camps range from day-long programs to classes on a weekly basis from May to August. Starting at $350 per hour. kodingkingdom.com
Mini Mandarins To build confidence in speaking Mandarin, these summer camps immerse children in everyday activities such as cooking, arts, crafts, music and science. Based in Causeway Bay, summer classes run from June 12 to August 31 including a Green Monday special, educating kids in food nutrition. Open to ages 2.5-10. minimandarins.com
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A fusion of intensive Putonghua training with playtime, these summer programs teach by doing. In addition to fortnightly field trips, children are encouraged to embrace traditional chinese cultural activities including WuShu and Chinese dance. Programmes run from June 19 to August 25. For children aged 2.5-12 years old. Starts at $2,880 per week. southsidemandarin.com
Tutor Time This summer, Tutor Time features a ‘Tech and Trek’ program that encourages kids to learn more about the world around them. The technology aspect will feature coding classes before taking kids outdoors to explore country parks, organic
Zodiac animal artwork at Southside Mandarin
farming and attend ecological workshops. Runs from July 24 to August 18 at various locations including Tai Tam, Mid-Levels and Central. Prices vary by location. 2573 9188, tutortime.com.hk http://tutortime.com.hk/sp2017.html
OWN Prometheus Summer Camp 2017 Prime your child for success this summer with entrepreneurial, programming and public speaking skills. Bringing together award-winning mentors and highly qualified scholars, this program preps children for further study and a solid career. OWN takes kids to different parts of the city everyday with a drop-off and pick up service in Central/ Sheung Wan. Suitable for ages 14-18. The programme runs from July 10-23 and costs upwards of $30,000. ownacademy.co
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family
Littlies Baumhaus
An indoor, age-specific summer camp designed to encourage a productive and enjoyable learning experience for kids, from newborns to 6-yearolds. It’s a flexible programme with unlimited playroom access, free pop-up playroom activities and a pass to one free summer event. Runs for eight weeks from July 11. Available at both Wan Chai and Harbour City locations. baumhaus.com.hk
Blooming Buds Training kids from 6 months to 6 years of age, Blooming Buds is encouraging bilingual learning in Putonghua and English. Running story-based sessions, the summer programme aims to build children’s confidence and improve social relationships. Starting at $2,400 per week, the camp runs from July 3 to August 18 in Sai Ying Pun. bloomingbuds.com.hk
Garden House Pre-School & Kindergarten An opportunity for little ones to walk, run, stretch and play, Garden House brings you an exciting and diverse choice of activity including yoga,
gardening, crafts and nature walks. Aimed at kids aged 1-7 years old, the programme runs through July 10 to August 25 at Clear Water Bay. Prices start at $780. gardenhouse.edu.hk
PEKiP PEKiP offers parent-infant classes through the months of July and August. Watch your baby grow with professional pedagogical guidance and stimulating exercises taking babies from 6 weeks to walking. Starts at $3,000 for 8 lessons. Located in Tung Chung. pekip.com.hk
Woodlands Pre-school A six-week, rotational programme for children from 6 months to 7 years, this summer school is the place for children to discover their niche. With musical activities, fitness, pure Mandarin classes and much more. Runs across various locations including Kennedy Town, Pokfulam, Aberdeen, Happy Valley and Sai Kung. Starts at $2,600 woodlandschools.com
The great outdoors Aberdeen Boat Club
Put the wind in your sails and take to the sea. Aimed at sailors aged 7-18, courses cater to a range of experience levels in several dinghy sizes. Parents can also opt for supervised courses for initial skill and confidence building exercises. Courses run from June until August. Starting at $1,080. abclubhk.com
Ark Eden Get wet and wild in the forests of Mui Wo and Lantau with this multi-activity exploration camp. Little ones get to swim in waterfalls, build tree houses, plant crops and climb through Ark Eden’s forest playground. Single-day camps as well as three- and five-day packages available. Prices start from $750 and run from July 3 until August 11. Pick up and drop off at Central and Mui Wo Ferry Pier. Email jasmine@ arkedenonlantau.com, arkeden.com.hk
Blue Sky Sports Club Catch some of the gorgeous summer sun and go kayaking, stand-up-paddleboarding, dragon boating, wake boarding, snorkeling or surfing along the Sha Ha coastline. Programmes run throughout the summer months, Monday to Friday. For ages 8 and above. Priced at $4,000. bluesky-sc.com
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Surf Hong Kong Activity-packed water sports camps with surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, canyoning and slacklining. Camps are held at the beautiful Tai Long Sai Wan beach and run from June 12 until August 28. Price is $3,500 per camper, open to ages 8-18 years old. Family adventure programmes also available. Surf Hong Hong is part of A-Team Edventures Limited, an experiential learning and leadership programme provider to schools and universities. ateamedventures.com
Treasure Island Mini surfers, campers and explorers can get moving and learning at Treasure Island’s surfing and adventure camps. Two surf camps are available, open to first timers and intermediate kiddies. Adventuring includes kayaking, mountain biking, coasteering and more. Starting at $4,200, the program welcomes children aged 5-9. treasureislandhk.com
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family
Sport
Asia Pacific Soccer School Take to the field this summer with mini soccer, basketball and multi-sport sessions dotted around Hong Kong. From Sai Kung to Jordan, summer classes run every weekday through July and August. $190 for an hour session. apsoccer.hk
Brazilian Football Academy Improve your footwork with BFA’s themed football classes, which include drills, games and a mini football tournament. Aimed at 5- to 14-year-olds, the camp develops kids social skills, promotes healthy competition and improves physical fitness. Training runs from July 3 to August 26, Monday to Saturday at 9:30-11:30am at Stanley Ho Sports Centre in Sandy Bay, Pok Fu Lam. bfa.hk
Excel Fencing Learn key self-defence and sword fighting skills at Excel Fencing’s summer classes. Training kids in multiple sword weights, the classes improve fitness, balance, coordination and discipline. Classes available for children aged 3 and up. Located in Wong Chuk Hang. 2110 9655 info@excel-fencing.com
Flex HK Flex HK is hosting one-week summer camps for ages 6-11 and 12 plus. The Flexteen and Flexikids’ programs are designed to keep young ones fit with a range of activities including aerial fitness, jazz funk dance, yoga, pilates allegro and aerial yoga. Located in One Island South, Wong Chuk Hang, the camps run from June 19 until July 7. Prices start at $1,400 for a week and $280 for a drop-in session. Enroll before June 10 for a 10 per cent discount. flexhk.com
Float Plus Sign up for Float Plus’ summer swimming courses, aimed at all ages and experiences from tadpoles to sharks. Courses are designed to develop kids’ swimming technique, build confidence underwater and teach water safety skills. All classes take place in Repulse Bay Club’s indoor pool and are open to both members and guests aged 3-12 years old. Runs from July 3-22 and is priced at $200 per class.floatplus.hk
Hong Kong Basketball Academy Shoot some hoops with HKBA’s weekly summer basketball camp for boys and girls of all ages. Emphasising teamwork, characterbuilding and technical skills, this Stanley-based programme is designed to bump up your game and provide valuable leadership experience. Age groups range from under 8 to under 19. Prices start at $1,500. Runs from June 19 to August 12. hkbaallday.com
Hong Kong International Tennis Academy Improve your tennis game by enrolling on the Monster Tennis programme. Lessons available in Sai Kung, Po Tsui, Ma on Shan, Causeway Bay, Morse Park and Sha Tin. The programme is designed for ages 3-18 to train their way to the top. Runs throughout July and August. Starts at $200/ class Email benny.lin@hkita.com, monstertennis.hk
Hebe Haven Yacht Club This summer, Hebe Haven Yacht Club in Sai Kung offers a range of watersports including sailing, kayaking, riding sea biscuits, beach games and day trips to islands on motor and sail. All kids need is a packed lunch, change of clothes and sun protection. It’s an all-day, fiveday programme running each week from June 26 until October 6. Priced at $2,625 for members and $3,675 for non-members. hhyc.org.hk
Hong Kong Parkview This summer, members, residents and guests can all play sport in the lush greenery of Hong Kong Parkview. Choose to develop skills in one specialised sport or enroll in a multi-sport camp. Sports on offer include gymnastics, hockey, mini rugby, tennis, basketball, rock climbing and more. Camps will run from June 26 to
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August 18 and prices start at $660 for guests. Early birds get 10 per cent off before June 11. hongkongparkview.com
Mindful Wing Chun Designed to improve kids’ focus, Mindful Wing Chun offers a range of traditional martial arts classes for kids. Get 3-13 year olds one step closer to Bruce Lee with Kung Fu, Chi Sau or Wing Chun basics. Priced at $275 per class, numerous packages are available throughout the months of July and August. mindfulwingchun.com.hk
Mini Sport Stay active with Mini Sport’s wide selection of sports including rugby, tennis, beach games, athletics and even party games. Located throughout Hong Kong, one-week camps take place at Woodland Pre-School, West Island School in Pok Fu Lam, French International School in Wong Chuk Hang or Victoria Park. Camps run from July 3 to August 11. Starting at $1,250 per child per week. sportsclassesforkidshk.com
Sport4Kids A diverse range of sport oriented summer camps including basketball, gymnastics, football, and swimming. Camps take place at locations across Hong Kong. Highlights include a swimming course at Deep Water Bay, mini-sports camp at The American Country Club in Tai Tam and multisports camps at South Horizons and Box Hill Kindergarten, Ma On Shan. sport4kids.hk
Tiny Tots Tiny Tots takes little ones out onto the field for some football coaching in Mid-levels and Pok Fu Lam. Kiddies will build confidence, improve technique, fitness and engage in some competitive fun. Open to children from 18 months to 4 years old, classes run from July 3 to August 26. Starting at $210 per session. tinytots.com.hk
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family
Performing arts Absolutely Fabulous Theatre Connection
AFTEC is flying in artists from the UK to shape young, budding stage actors. Offering two weeks of full day training, the camps teach three types of theatre analysis including classical, devising and movement theatre. Suitable for ages 11-13, the camp will culminate in a showcase performance on August 4 & 5. Venues include Sai Wan Ho and Chai Wan. aftec.hk
Colour My World Targeting artists across all fields, the Sheung Wan-based Visual & Performing studio is a great step forward for striving artists and actors. Get the little ones trained in speech communication, creative writing, visual arts and performance from June 19-30. Open to ages 3-16. Starts at $2,200. colour-my-world.com
Faust World Fire up your creative potential with a week-long creative writing or theatre programme located at Sheung Wan, King George V School and Discovery Bay. Faust creates a fun-filled environment for students to engage with the art of theatre and the creative process of writing. Useful for confidence building, teamwork and developing interpersonal skills. Workshops begin June 26 and run until August 25. Suitable for ages 3-14, starting at $2,960. faustworld.com
Behind the scenes at Junior Snappers
International Academy of Film and Television Lights, Camera, Action. These summer courses instil aspiring actors with creativity, confidence and collaborative skills and teach budding directors the fundamentals of camera work, audio recording and storyboard planning. Open to ages 11 and up. Located in Wan Chai. Starts at $3,980 with 10 per cent discount for referrals from IAFT-HK Teen Alumnis and 15 per cent for IAFT Teen Alumnis. Iaft.net
Junior Snappers A filmmaking summer camp where kids independently create a short film project from start to finish. The five-day workshop involves learning how to create characters, write a script, plan a plot, direct and produce a short film. Open to kids aged 8-15 years old. Runs June 26-30 and August 7-11 in Central. Priced at $3,500. juniorsnappers.com
Red Shoe Dance Company Get kids shimmying, tip toeing and cha cha chaing in Contemporary, Classical Ballet, Jazz classes and more. The program is a five-day long commitment in Wong Chuk Hang aimed at ages 5 and older. Lessons start in the week of July 3, price at $2,500. redshoedance.com
Twinkle Dance Company Sway and spin your pointy toes and whip out your mini tutus for a summer of ballet. Aimed at ages 5 plus, these workshops not only teach ballet but also offer a chance for kids to choreograph their own proud masterpiece. From July 2 to August 31 on Queen’s Road Central. A variety of packages available starting at $2,240. twinkledance.com
Rumple & Friends Get little ones rock and rolling this summer with a themed musical course. From the signature Magic Circus to the Mini Monsters, kids are taken to a whole new world. From June 26 to August 25, Monday through Friday on Jervois Road, Sheung Wan. 3-10 years old. rumpleandfriends.com
Starlit Voice Indulge in a summer of creativity with Starlit Voice offering drama, acting and musical theatre weekly workshops. Various locations across Hong Kong including Sheung Wan, Central, Aberdeen and Ap Lei Chau, the summer program encourages kids to get in touch with their artistic side. Open to ages 4-11. Starts at $1,600. starlitvoice.com
All-rounders YWCA
Challenge the mind, brain and body in one of YWCA’s camps for little ones. Opportunities range from shooting hoops to playing junior scientist. With over 400 options to choose from YWCA has one of the most comprehensive lists around. Running throughout July and August for various age groups. Starting at $180 per basketball or soccer session. Based mostly at YWCA in Central. More specialised camps such as fencing and ice skating are located elsewhere including Causeway Bay and Tai Koo. Clle.ywca.org.hk
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family
Art, crafts and baking Active Kids
For three months this summer, Active Kids is running six different themed camps coaching little ones in culinary arts, chess, robotics and more. Inviting kids aged 3-17, the camps run from June to August in Kennedy Town and Mong Kok. Prices on request. activekidshk.com
Art Loop Discover your inner artist with five days of crafts, ceramics or painting. Art Loop in Wong Chuk Hang offers a well-rounded cultural, creative and education experience with side-by-side learning about artistic legends Claude Monet, David Hockney and Andy Warhol. Workshops begin in the last week of June and run Monday to Friday. One-hour sessions start at 9:30am, 10:30am and 11:30am. Prices start at $1,500 per week. 52388186, artloop.hk
Anastassia’s Art House Learn to draw, paint and sculpt from the créme de la créme at Anastassia’s Art House, an awardwinning Russian art academy with locations in Sai Kung, Repulse Bay and Happy Valley. Qualified specialists are flown in from around the world promoting globalised, multicultural, artistic training. Starting at $280 for a one-hour session. Runs from July 2 to August 12. arthouse-hk.com
Banana Art Club Make your mark with a brush, pencil, crayon or ink. The creative courses teach the basics of sketching, manga and cartoons, crafts, painting and more. Classes suitable for kids aged 3-17. Courses run from June 29 until September 2 in Causeway Bay, Discovery Bay and Kennedy School. bananaartclub.com
Complete Deelite Instead of getting baked in the summer heat, get baking, decorating and celebrating at Complete Deelite in Central. Courses include making
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The Picassos and Monets of tomorrow at Anastassia’s Art House
unicorn cake pops, safari cupcakes and ice cream drip cakes. These fun and funky courses start at only $650 with all supplies and tools provided. From July 5 until August 9. completedeelite.com
Fairchild Junior Academy Calling all infants, toddlers and preschoolers who like to run, play and sing. Fairchild Junior Academy will run weekly themed camps throughout the summer. Pick from a number of themes including animals, creative construction, simple science and more. Located in Tin Hau, the camp runs from July 3 to August 11. Prices start from $950 for two days per week. Email camps@fairchild.academy, bit.ly/ FairchildSummerCamp2017
packages available, book before June 9 to get the early bird discount. 2877 6160, infokidz@hklanguages.com, hkkidz.com
HK Kidz
Hong Kong Art Tutoring
Develop your English, German, Spanish, French or Mandarin this summer while cooking, playing music, performing science experiments and more. Targeting 1.5-12 year olds, the program runs in Sai Kung, Central and Wong Chuk Hang. Begins July 3 until end of August. Various price
Have some messy fun with sculpting, painting, printmaking and drawing in North Point this summer. Suitable for all kids above the age of 9, Hong Kong Art Tutoring is offering week-long courses training students in the basics of art. From June 12 to August 18, courses are priced at $1,500 per week. hkarttutoring.com
summer lovin’ Lego Education Educating brick by brick, this lego-based camp inspires a creative learning process. Summer workshops run for three days with two-hour classes each day on Castle Peak Road, Lai Chi Kok. Exploring animal adventures, inventions and robotics, courses are aimed at ages 3-10. Fees start at $1,680. Book via Cityline to get $100 off. lec.semia.com.hk
Little Picasso Travel through the epochs of art week by week with hands-on art classes inspired by Picasso, Botero, Miro and Hundertwasser. The Paint like Picasso camp prompts children to channel their creative energy into wild brushstrokes, crazy clay pots, collages and printmaking while learning about creative geniuses. From July 3 to August 25 in Wong Chuk Hang. littlepicasso.hk
Maggie & Rose
Fun and Play at Maggie & Rose (there’s an arrow so this isn’t 100 percent necessary)
Take mini palaeontologists back to prehistoric times and budding architects blueprinting in this themed summer camp open to members and non-members. Running from July 3 to August 25 at the club’s Repulse Bay location, themes are rotated weekly to target students
of all interests. Designed for 3-8 year olds. Starting at $3,500 for one month including four classes and two guest passes. Advance payment needed. hk.maggieandrose.com
thePatsy Summer Cooking Bootcamp Turn summertime into a culinary education with a four-hour cooking camp in Wong Chuk Hang. Teaching kids to plate up an elaborate three-course meal or how to professionally bake and decorate a cake, this programme feeds all. Emphasising kitchen hygiene and health, it is suited for ages 7 up to teens. Begins June 12, Monday to Friday. Starting at $960. thepatsy.com.hk M
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eating
Family favourites Where to go with the kids in tow
FRITES
Mostaccioli Brothers
With high ceilings and plenty of space for the little ones to run around, Belgian beerhouse, FRITES makes a great dining experience for the whole family. FRITES’ traditional European fare is warm and hearty, serving Belgian frites, mussels and chicken parma as well as vegetarian options. The kids’ menu includes mini burgers, bangers and mash and spaghetti bolognese. Children will be right at home with a kids’ corner that is available every weekend.
Affectionately nicknamed “Mo Bros”, the restaurant is tucked away in an alleyway off Elgin Street. Mo Bros has a warm and friendly atmosphere with a large painting of the Italian coast sprawled across one side of the restaurant. If the sun is out, opt for a seat outside in their courtyard. Serving home-style Italian cuisine, dishes are modern adaptations of favourite recipes from family kitchens in 50s, 60s America. Mo Bros uses natural ingredients like olive oil, cheeses, and pasta, with most of their products sourced directly from Italy. The restaurant has a lunch set menu and an a
Four locations across Hong Kong including 1/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central, 2217 6671, frites.hk
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la carte menu during dinner service. Start with a mix of antipasti like mixed olives and pepper dews and semi dried tomatoes, followed by some main options favourites such as the baked mostaccioli, the veal scallopini marsala and the spaghetti carbonara which uses eggs instead of cream. B/F & G/F, 16 Elgin Street, Central, 2525 5770, elgrande.com.hk
family affair Limewood Situated in the beautiful Repulse Bay area, Limewood has become a family favourite. Spread across the ground floor of the pulse, the restaurant is vibrant in decor, with spacious seating. The use of sliding doors allows fresh air and natural light to stream through the entire restaurant. The menu sees a Southeast Asian twist with a dash of Hawaiian - think charred corn fritters, Thai-style whole snapper, and Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken. The kids' menu has Hawaiian chicken tortillas, grilled corn, and for good measure, churros. So grab the family and hit Limewood to indulge in their food and refreshing cocktails while overlooking a view of Repulse Bay Beach. Shop 103-104, the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2866 8668, limewood.hk
Fish & Meat Hidden above the bustling streets of Central, Fish & Meat is a nice hideaway. The space has an urban warehouse feel with the use of rustic wood, dividing columns and low hanging lights. The menu is simple yet sophisticated and revolves around fresh seafood, pasta and farmto-table cooking, making sure everyone is well looked after. Fish & Meat’s cooking techniques are focused heavily on their use of ingredients, bringing a balanced and flavourful punch to its dishes. Some favourites include seared barramundi, poached boston lobster risotto, and Spanish pork belly porchetta. To finish off your meal, try the Amalfi lemon tart brulee and pavlova with poached yellow peach, lavender cream and ruby peach sorbet. 2/F, 32 Wyndham Mansion, Central, 2565 6788, fishandmeat.hk
Jamie’s Italian Much-loved Jamie Oliver creates a family-style sharing menu at Jamie’s Italian. Like other Jamie’s Italian outlets around the world, the menu is hearty, affordable and includes many tried-and-tested dishes. The menu includes a spread of antipasti, pizza, pasta and quick nibbles. The venue is spacious and colourful, with large comfy couches for big groups and a kids’ play area to keep the little ones busy. Children will be treated to chicken lollipops, cheesy pasta or baby beef burgers. If you’ve got a little masterchef in your family, sign them up to Jamie’s Little Chef, a monthly workshop for kids aged 5 to 10 to learn to make pizza.
Two locations across Hong Kong including 2/F, Soundwill Plaza II - Midtown, 1 Tang Lung Street, Causeway Bay, 3958 2222, jamieoliver.com
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eating
Rosie Jean’s Cafe Rosie Jean’s Cafe is a quaint, vintage-style cafe, making it a perfect go-to family outing. The sweet little cafe has a range of fresh bagels, sandwiches, juices and pastries to choose from, while there is a specific menu for children that includes fish finger sandwiches, pancakes and yoghurt. Plus, the little ones will enjoy Rosie Jean’s Cafe’s indoor and outdoor area - a rare gem in the Mid-levels area, where the drawers are filled to the brim with books, toys and crayons. Wait for a sunny day and hit the outdoor terrace to enjoy the most of what Rosie Jean’s Cafe has to offer. 119 Caine Road, Central, 2549 9718, rosiejeanscafe.com
Pizza Express A tried-and-tested family favourite, Pizza Express, makes dining out with children easy. The menu has a comprehensive list of Italian dishes with a handful of pizzas to choose from, such as the classic Margherita and the more fusion flavours of a peking duck pizza. There is a piccolo menu for the little ones of the family with the choice of a pizza or pasta, drink, dessert and a bambinoccino. For birthdays and special occasions, there are kids’ pizza making parties available where children aged 4-9 can be a masterchef and toss their own pizza. There are several locations around Hong Kong including Shop G03, G/F, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 3585 8598, pizzaexpress.com.hk
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eating
Linguini Fini After moving into SoHo from its former location, Linguini Fini now rests in an semialfresco space on Elgin Street. The decor is simple but adds to the charm of the restaurant. There’s plenty of space with tables placed comfortably apart. Linguini Fini supports
local farmers and uses fresh ingredients to accommodate its farm-to-table ethos. Serving authentic Italian food, the home-made pasta and pizza dishes are not only a hit with the adults but also the kids. If you’ve got a bigger group, choose from the antipastis to
share and finish with their dessert options.
brunch which includes free-flow homemade chips and salsa, a main course, dessert and bottomless drinks.
Several locations across Hong Kong including 90 Stanley Main Street, 2944 2732, cali-mex.com M
49 Elgin Street, Central, 2387 6338, linguinifini.com
Cali-mex Expanding across Hong Kong, Cali-mex’s newest Stanley venue is one of the biggest for the group. Located on Stanley Main Street, the branch offers full-table service, bar and selfserve beer taps with all of Cali-mex’s regulars like burritos, tacos and quesadillas. Children can choose from a burrito or a quesadilla meal which comes with a flavoured soda. Plus all sit down venues now have a ‘from the grill’ menu which include grilled rib-eye steak, chicken and fish fillet. If you’re having a weekend in Southside, tuck into their weekend
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Dining news
What not to miss this month
The Cakery opens new shop at The Landmark Riding the tide of health and wellness taking over Hong Kong, The Cakery has launched its own nutritious yet delicious selection of lunch and tea choices. The new shop at LANDMARK has a range of homemade breads, including gluten-free, vegan, organic, walnut and mixed fruit sourdough and sugar-free chocolate brioches. For the office crowd, the ‘Wellness Lunch Set’ includes a gluten-free half-sandwich (choose from Rainbow – sweet potato with beetroot hummus, pickled carrots and spinach; Golden Chicken – turmeric yogurt chicken, our favourite; or Ham & Cheese). This is served alongside a bite-size cupcake, a pack of homemade mixed dried fruits and nuts and a home-brewed drink. Shop 301, Landmark, Central, thecakery.com
Brunch by the Shore Shore (Steak Lounge Terrace) broadens its horizons with a brand new Sunday brunch menu with free-flow food and booze to make lazy Sundays even lazier. Hosted on Shore’s outdoor terrace, drinks include Veuve Clicquot Champagne, cocktails, homemade lemonade and young coconuts, while food ranges from freshly cooked waffles and barbequed meats to locally sourced vegetables and a salad station. Shore is also partnering with a number of Hong Kong entrepreneurs, who will showcase their collections at the brunches. Look out for the occasional themed brunch, inspired by shorelines around the world such as the Caribbean Islands, Greece, Southern France, Hawaii and Australia. Available Sundays, from 12:30-3:30pm. $680 per person (plus service charge) including a selection of free-flow drinks. To reserve, call 9716 5053 or email tavia@shore.com.hk, shore.com.hk
innovative approach to traditional “Kaiseki” and thoroughly delicious. Known as Japan’s haute cuisine, “Kaiseki” cuisine is based on creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, appearance and colour of ingredients, over a multi-course meal. Standout dishes include the Yuba Santen Mori (Bean Curd Sheet Sampler), A5 Japanese Wagyu with Wasabi Salsa and Jade Blush Matcha, with Yuba and Kuromame. The “Kyoto Twist” menu is available until June 25. $1,488 per person for the eightcourse gala dinner omakase menu; $888 per person for the six-course lunch omakase menu. For reservations, call 2313 2323 or email fb.hongkong@ihg.com. NOBU InterContinental Hong Kong, Second Floor, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon
Di Vino launches weekend recovery brunch Had a heavy night in LKF? Head down the road to Di Vino for its newly launched weekend recovery brunch. Flush the alcohol out of your system with colourful, nutritious dishes including a superfood omelette packed with kale, spinach and zucchini; beetroot, cottage cheese and fresh watercress salad; and chef’s ‘Healing Bowl’ packed with organic quinoa, egg, Scottish salmon, avocado and more. Sweet dishes include parfait of Greek fat-free yoghurt and granola with berries and glutenfree chocolate cake. There’s also a selection of detox waters and smoothies. So if you’re looking to set that stomach straight or skip a weekend cheat-day, this is the meal for you. Available weekends and public holidays. To reserve, call 2167 8883. G/F, 73 Wyndham Street, Central, divinogroup.com
Soho Spice Launches a Vegetarian Menu
NOBU Hong Kong introduces Kyoto-inspired menu Last month, world famous chef Nobu Matsuhisa was in town to launch Episode 3 of his 2017 Gourmet Tour. Throughout the year, diners at NOBU Hong Kong are being taken on a food tour through Japan’s prefectures, in each case, showcasing seasonal, regional produce. The culinary journey began in Okinawa in January, heading north to Kyushu in March, and has now arrived in Kyoto. NOBU’s “Kyoto Twist” menu is a modern and
Soho Spice, the South East Asian fusion restaurant is one of the oldest standing on Elgin Street and a favourite of many locals. This month, they have decided to go green with a new Vegetarian menu by award-winning Chef Peter Cuong. The new menu jumps from tofu to portobello to pineapple all seasoned with pick-and-mix flavours from Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam, finely spiced to satisfy even the heartiest of meat eaters. With both an indoor and outdoor area, the renovated restaurant has a very family feel while the food is reminiscent of traditional comfort, street food. M
Silken Tofu.
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home & living
Mexican flair in Mid-Levels
Lauren Yee steps inside the home of Maria Estrada, co-founder of what the frock?! Photography by Sabrina Sikora
D
esign isn’t just integral to Maria Estrada’s business. The co-founder of what the frock?!, a Hong Kong based womenswear label that designs simple and flattering dresses for women of all shapes and sizes, blends elements of her brand and personal style into her home interior too. Pops of colour and mementos from her travels give her twobedroom Old Peak Road apartment a fresh, modern feel that oozes personality. We chat to the fashionista about her favourite Mid-Levels spots and how she adds a touch of Mexican flair to her flat to remind her of home.
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Why did you choose to live in Mid-Levels when you moved to Hong Kong? The convenience; Old Peak Road is close to Central and gives us the freedom to go out whenever we want. However, we can still enjoy a bit of peace and quiet as we’re not right in the middle of all the chaos and noise. The apartment is also close to Bowen Road, so it’s easy for me to go on morning runs and hike up The Peak (to have breakfast at the top, of course!). Sometimes I wish we had a bigger space, but the apartment ticks our biggest priorities. Besides, space is always going to be a bit of an issue in Hong Kong.
What are some of your favourite places in Mid-Levels? I love the dynamics of the area - it’s constantly changing so you never get bored. I love exploring the smaller, less transited streets and finding cool new shops, restaurants and bars. I’m also a big fan of street art, so I’m fascinated by all the cool graffiti that really gives the area a personality. In terms of local businesses, one of my favourite shops that has stood the test of time is Polkadot Boutique. You can buy unique pieces from local and international designers at great prices. Some of my favourite spots in
through the keyhole
the area are Ho Lee Fook, the food is delicious and I love the style of the restaurant; the newly opened Elephant Grounds for a good cup of coffee; Staunton’s for drinks with your friends in a chilled-out environment; and Gao’s on Caine Road for a nice foot massage. How would you describe the style of your home? Eclectic. To be honest, I didn’t have a particular theme in mind when I started decorating, it was a very organic process. I started buying pieces that I liked and from there I just chose things that in my mind went well together. I love buying quirky pieces that add more character to our place and reflect our personalities, especially while travelling. I tend to approach the process of home decoration as I would when I design or style an outfit. It may sound strange, but it works! Has your business influenced the way you use the space in your home? Definitely. The second bedroom works well as my office and for storing the pieces of our collection. I work from home and as we all
know, in Hong Kong you have to be creative in the use of space, so I sometimes I use the apartment as my showroom as well. Hence why all the dresses have pretty much become part of the apartment’s decoration! Working from home can get quite messy, especially when you are dealing with many pieces of clothing, but having customers over quite frequently pushes me to keep the apartment organised and tidy, which I am thankful for as it makes me work better. Tidy home, tidy mind! What is your favourite space in your apartment and why? I think it is the living room. The big bay window allows for lots of light. That’s where we spend most of the time at home, watching our favourite TV shows, reading and even working. It’s also a great space when we have guests over. What’s the one thing everyone should have in their home? A meaningful piece of artwork. It
gives personality to your home and can work as the focal point of any room and even be a great conversation starter. Where do you enjoy shopping for homeware and furniture in Hong Kong? Hong Kong is an amazing place to get creative. You can find some awesome home pieces for good value. Horizon Plaza is a treasure trove if you invest the time. Tequila Kola, Tree and Indigo are some of my favourite shops in there. I also love shops like iDecorate and Thorn & Burrow for quirky pieces and home accents. You’re originally from Mexico, do you have anything from home/that reminds you of where you’re from? Absolutely, just by looking at all the vibrant colours in our place you can tell that
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home & living
there is definitely some Mexican influence. I love incorporating Mexican touches that not only add some flair to our home but also bring me closer to my Mexican roots. As you can tell I have a bit of an obsession with Mexican sugar skulls, however I’m particularly drawn to two ceramic female skeleton figures dressed in Mexican-style clothes in the dining room. They are called “Catrinas” and are used as a symbol of the “Day of the Dead”, which in Mexico is a very important holiday. Even though they can come across as “creepy”, in Mexico we don’t see them in a morbid way so if feels normal to have them at home. They are a key feature of our dining room and make for great conversation starters! What are some of your favourite items in your home and why? These are items that are more meaningful to us in terms of the stories behind them. They reflect our personality, bring back good memories and make our place unique. I’m obsessed with fashion books, so I treasure all the ones I’ve been able to collect throughout the years. As I mentioned before, my Mexican Catrinas are also very special to me. A close friend of mine also gave me two Fornasetti plates that we’ve hang on our wall and I love. To see Maria’s creations, visit whatthefrock.net. M
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big day out
Wet and wild
Entrance to Wetlands Park.
Rory Mackay heads to Mai Po
I
f the idea of exploring the outermost reaches of Hong Kong appeals to you, then I recommend heading into the far northern New Territories, home to a variety of landscapes and environments. In previous articles, I have highlighted many lakes, mountains and sites of cultural relevance. But for world class wildlife sanctuaries, look no further to the wetlands of Mai Po. The northern plains of Hong Kong that host these wetlands are vast, running from Lo Wu in the east, to Deep bay in the west. Sitting immediately to the north, the ever-intensifying skyline of Shenzhen provides an astonishing visual and environmental contrast to what lies on the Hong Kong side of the border. The most extensive areas worth visiting lie within the heart of this zone, with Yuen Long City serving as the main gateway, easily reached via the MTR West Rail.
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Head direct to the ‘Mai Po Nature Reserve’ for the full wetland experience or visit the ‘Hong Kong Wetland Park’ for a shorter, more family friendly taster. The Mai Po Nature reserve is a protected zone, comprised of mudflats, ponds and mangroves. An extensive habitat for resident and migratory birds, it is a must see for any aspiring ornithologist: the area is home to approximately 72 per cent of Hong Kong’s birdlife. But it is not all just flocks and feathers; the Mai Po area provides sightseeing for many other animal species. Furthermore, you don’t have to be big on wildlife to appreciate the calmness and visual beauty of the tranquil backwaters and sounds of long grasses blowing in the breeze. To reach the nature reserve, disembark at Yuen Long Station on the MTR West Rail and walk down to the transport interchange. From here, either ride the 76K bus to Mai Po Village and walk
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big day out
Wetlands Boardwalk.
Mai Po and Shenzhen.
Mudskippers.
20mins or take a taxi there for around $70. The only snag with Mai Po is that entry to the area is controlled and you must join a tour or obtain a permit to enter. Unless you’re a serious enthusiast with affiliations to the WWF and other such organizations, my tip is to join a guided tour. Tours here are fun and affordable with a range of offerings, from a three-hour $120 exploration to a six-hour $360 works package. For further information on tours, visit www.wwf.org.hk The simpler alternative to Mai Po, perhaps more appropriate for casual visits and families with younger children, is the Hong Kong Wetland Park. One can easily spend a couple of hours
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wandering the footbridges and enjoying the many exhibits on show here. Getting to the park is simple compared to reaching Mai Po, as the site is located on the edge of Tin Shui Wai town. Once at Tin Shui Wai Station on the MTR West Rail, transfer to the MTR Light Rail and catch the 705 tram. Hop off at ‘Wetland Park’ station and follow signs across the road to the Wetland Park. Entry tops out at $30 for adults and once inside you have full licence to explore. Departing from the grand and informative visitor centre, wander over elevated boardwalks and floating mangrove walkways. Keep an eye out for birds, crabs and mudskippers along the way.
Overall, this is an adventure location for all. A safe and pleasant excursion catering to the needs of families, yet engaging enough to keep the most intrepid of wildlife gurus and outdoor adventurers engrossed. These approaching weeks are ideal to spot the last of the migratory birds before they embark on their epic journeys northwards over the summer months. M
Rory Mackay runs adventure company Wild Hong Kong. For details, visit wildhongkong.com.
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picture this
Painting of the month: Hong Kong by American “art deco artist” Tracy Dennison
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picture postcard 60 seconds with the artist. Tell me about yourself. My mum was a nightclub singer in New York when she met a handsome man who was soon to join the Army Air Force. War had a chilling effect on life as usual, but, ever hopeful, they married in a backyard wedding on Long Island. I met my father when I was 14 months old. He returned to the small bungalow on DeLongpre, where my mother had moved to work in an airplane factory. Dad had survived 52 bombing missions, and now he was back, to start over and begin his new life. Dad became a district manager for Pepsi after his return from being a navigator and bombardier, and we moved often. I had attended 12 grammar schools by the sixth grade. My brother, Brian, was a good companion through all the moves. Describe yourself if three words. Wonderful, generous and kind. Realistically? I don’t know. What’s real? Where do you live? My hometown is Hollywood, USA. Mom and I lived near Sunset and Vine, while waiting for my dad to return from the war. I have lived in a townhouse one block east of Beverly Hills for the last 33 years. The city is going through a growth spurt and construction is everywhere. I have learned to block the insanity and focus on my painting. How long have you been painting? I started painting in oil when I was 11 years old. A simple gift opened the door. I was always the new kid in school, but at least I was the new kid who could draw. I always drew, and my mum saved a picture of an Indian I did at age 6. We lived next to a Navajo reservation at the time, and I see my ‘style’ even at that early age.
How would you describe your style? My style is my own. People called me the art deco artist when I did that series, and I think that fits. I love everything about that glamourous time in the 20’s and 30’s. My Wildlife series has a surreal edge to it, probably because I started the series after I woke up on April 17, 2005 with severe double vision. After five long years, with no diagnosis for my eye condition, a eye surgeon said, “we’ll probably never know what caused it, but I can fix you.” My savings were wiped out but I continued working on my Wildlife series. I love the arch this series has taken, it makes me feel free and happy and has been a joy to paint. I’m still painting very 3-D animals in fantasy landscapes.
Suzi sent me a postcard of [Hong Kong], circa 1880... my imagination took off and I envisioned the same street as it might look in 1932. The shih-tzu is my dog Jasmine, who was just a puppy then
What’s the story behind this picture? It brings back a lot of memories. It was about 1980, and the 12-year-old daughter of my boyfriend, Suzi, went to Hong Kong on an excursion with classmates. Suzi sent me a postcard of the city, circa 1880. Somehow, my imagination took off, and I envisioned the same street as it might look in 1932. The shih-tzu is my dog, Jasmine, who was just a puppy then. It took about two years to complete, and it has a life force, I think. Suzi Janes died in 2010, from ovarian cancer, leaving behind a toddler and a husband. I am still heartbroken that she’s gone, but I feel her presence when I look at the picture, and that’s comforting. What are you trying to show? What I think I’m ‘trying to show’ in all my work, is heaven on earth. My ‘art deco’ series is the best example of heaven, because I like to picture myself
driving fabulous cars, wearing gorgeous evening gowns in beautiful surroundings, and this series is IT! I once owned a ‘34 Auburn boattail speedster and painted her a few times. I cover the Far East in my garden paintings, and they make me feel serene while I’m painting them, and later, when I’m the viewer. I also showcase tenderness between the couples, and Hong Kong is a good example of the unity and the joy they express. I viewed the whole series of about 75 pictures as an extended Honeymoon for Two. Where would you like to paint next in Hong Kong? I can think of many areas that would interest me. That’s the funny thing...I haven’t been there in person yet, but the Hong Kong in my imagination is a vibrant, exciting place to be. I would love to draw people in brown pencil or ink, if they would pause for 10-15 minutes and let me sketch them. That would be fun, because the essence of any city is the people living there, and how they feel about their city. Where can we find more of your work? You can view many of my pictures on FineArtAmerica.com. I have four galleries there: the Deco series, Hollywood, Wildlife and my paintings of ‘40 style ties. My ‘art deco’ pictures have been featured on the Princess Cruise Line. Or visit tracy-dennison.artistwebsites.com I also illustrated and co-wrote a children’s book with my mum, Shaun the Leprechaun and the Loch Ness Monster which was finally published last year by Black Rose Writing. It’s a miracle: 22 years after my mum went to heaven, her first book has been published. Better late than never! The seed was actually planted 36 years ago but the first manuscript was pen and ink, and nobody was interested. That was 1980, so in 2005 I decided to turn the story into a full colour book. Ten pages/paintings into it, I woke up with double vision, and finished the book as a visually disabled artist. So it’s a surreal project from all angles. Is there anything you’d like to add? If you have a dream, don’t give up. Follow your dream. If you don’t have a dream now, find one. M
Have you painted Hong Kong? Each month we feature a painting of Hong Kong and a 60-second interview with the artist who created it. If you’d like to be featured, email editorial@fastmedia.com.hk
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travel
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on the rocks
Kata Rocks, Phuket Shreena Patel finds a slice of the Balearic on Phuket’s sunset coast
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travel
I
f a small piece of Ibiza were to be recreated in Southeast Asia, it might look something like Kata Rocks. The clean, white, superyacht-inspired design, wide expanse of sea and spectacular sunsets give the resort a distinctly Balearic feel. Since opening in November 2014, Kata Rocks has been consistently recognised as one of Asia’s top luxury resorts and was named one of the 25 best hotels in South East Asia by the Condé Nast Readers’ 2016 Choice Award. Designed to combine the space and opulence of a modern villa with the service of a five-star boutique hotel, the resort has won 20 International Property Awards including ‘Best Apartment in the World’ at the London awards.
Recommended dining spots outside the resort Capannina (Italian restaurant and pizzeria) 98/82-83 The Beach Center, Kata Road, TH, Karon, Muang, +66 76 284 450 www.capannina-phuket.com
The resort won...”Best Aparment in the World” at the London [International Property] Awards
The resort sits atop a private hill overlooking Kata Beach and Koh Pu. It is built on a relatively small area with a steep incline, resulting in two things: firstly, that villas are stacked in tiers, providing each with ample
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Red Snapper
space and an ocean view; secondly, that the resort maintains a fleet of sturdy buggies to transport guests from A to B when they do not wish to walk. It’s a good thing they’re sturdy, because the dining at Kata Rocks is excellent. There is only one restaurant on site, with indoor seating as well as poolside dining. Breakfast,
(Japanese-Italian) Kata Road, Kata, Phuket, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat, +66 86 120 4513 www.facebook.com/RedSnapperPhuket
Mom Tri’s Kitchen (Thai fine dining) Mom Tri’s Villa Royale, 12 Kata Noi Road, Kata Noi Beach, +66 76 333 569 villaroyalephuket.com
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travel
lunch and dinner are all served here (unless you prefer to dine in your villa). Breakfast is a mixture of a la carte and buffet, but dinner is where the food really makes an impression. The cuisine is “Mediterranean and Australasian with a hint of Thai flavours” and the restaurant’s reputation means that many visit Kata Rocks just for dinner.
Many visit Kata Rocks just for dinner
Each night as I leave the restaurant, belly full, and bundle myself into the back of the buggy I feel the vehicle sink a little and wonder if it can bear the load or if at some point we will slow down to a stop and start rolling back downhill, but we always make it back to the villa without any problems, albeit at a slightly slower speed than usual. Our villa is wonderfully modern and spacious. There are 34 “Sky Villas” in total,
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A penthouse villa
all perched on the rocks, overlooking the Andaman Sea. Each has its own outdoor terrace with sunloungers, sofa and private infinity-pool. Every villa is also equipped with a kitchen, dining area, lounge and the latest
interactive iPad technology allowing guests to control the various gadgets - including outdoor speakers - at the touch or swipe of a button. Many of the villas are owned or partowned and managed by the resort as guest
on the rocks
accommodation. Villa owners have privileged access to resort facilities and services as well as events, such as last year’s Superyacht Rendezvous - a three-day invitation-only event full of cruising, yacht showcases, food, drink, music and parties. Another Superyacht event is planned for this December. During the daytime, most guests are to be found lounging in their villas (I recommend taking a couple of good books). But there’s also a main pool, games room, well equipped gym, spa and poolside bar which has a happy hour in the evenings - Kata Rocks has an extensive gin collection including its own homemade creation. Chargeable activities include an excellent Thai cooking class (whether I can recreate the dishes at home remains to be seen) and cheese and wine tastings in the resort’s wine cellar, also available to hire for private events. If you feel like getting out and exploring, the resort is a short stroll from the shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants of Kata village (see the recommended dining spots outside of the
The view from the villa at sunset
Kata Rocks facesheet
Put your feet up in the spa
resort). The public beach is just few minute’s buggy ride away, where you can try a variety of water sports. At night, we take a dip in our private outdoor pool before falling asleep among soft, white sheets. M
Getting there: Fly to Phuket, then an hour and a quarter by car. 34 one, two, three-bedroom villas & four-bedroom penthouses, all with private infinity pools and the latest interactive iPad lifestyle technology. 160 staff. Nightly rates from USD$785 for a onebedroom Sky Pool Villa. Laundry machine in villa. Babysitting services available along with a fully supervised kids club. Cheese & wine masterclass from THB1,800. Thai cooking class from THB2,800 pp. Kata Rocks Residence and Resort 186/22 Kok Tanode Road, Kata, Muang, Phuket, 83100 Thailand katarocks.com
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Horoscopes
hong kong horoscopes
AQUARIUS Jan 21 – Feb 19
PISCES Feb 20 – Mar 20
ARIES Mar 21 – Apr 20
TAURUS Apr 21 – May 21
This month is looking like a good one for you, Aquarius. I predict that you’ll never get caught at taxi changeover time, you’ll always get a seat on the MTR, and your bus won’t get stuck in traffic. OK, maybe these are impossibilities. But I maintain that your transport woes will be lesser this month, which means that your stress levels will be similarly lowered.
Romer’s Tree Frog is a tiny, unremarkable brown frog with one special characteristic: it’s endemic to Hong Kong. In other words, this endangered and protected species is native to the territory and isn’t found anywhere else in the world. What’s endemic to you, Pisces? What do you have that no one else on the planet has? That’s also something worth protecting, wouldn’t you agree?
Drinks are expensive these days, everybody knows that. A beer at a bar will cost you upwards of $60. A cocktail? $120, if you’re lucky. So when’s the last time you had a night out… at Club 7-Eleven? After all, it’s a Hong Kong institution. Grab a few brews, pay by Octopus, and hang out on the street watching the world go past. You’ll thank yourself, Aries – and so will your bank balance.
A favourite Cantonese phrase of mine is siu seen yuk, “little fresh meat” – it means a young, inexperienced pretty-boy. You couldn’t ask for a more evocative, more objectifying phrase. But why not objectify the guy for a change, Taurus? Your mission this month: flip your assumptions and stereotypes – even if it’s just the object of your lust.
LEO Jul 23 – Aug 22
VIRGO Aug 23 – Sep 23
LIBRA Sep 24 – Oct 23
SCORPIO Oct 24 – Nov 22
Lantau’s Big Buddha is the world’s largest seated outdoor bronze Buddha. That’s a lot of adjectives just make a world record, isn’t it? By that logic, I’m the world’s greatest half-Chinese Hong Kongbased English-language soothsaying mystic. Probably. Leo, sometimes we protest just a little too much. You don’t have to be the world’s best: It’s OK just to be good.
Virgo, do you have any Chinese aunties? If you do, you’ll know that they’re always interested in your health, your career… and your love life. It might seem irritating sometimes, but it always comes from a place of love. I encourage you to embrace their attention. And if you don’t have any Chinese aunties, let me help. Are you eating enough? Are you making enough money? When are you going to settle down?
If you speak to some, Chungking Mansions is a wretched hive of scum and villainy. Speak to others, and it’s a great place to get a curry. Speak to still more, and it’s as close to home as they get in this overwhelming city. Libra, this your a reminder that perspective is key: everyone sees things a little differently. Remember Chungking Mansions the next time you get frustrated.
Do you remember when the purple plastic $10 note was introduced, Scorpio? Everyone thought that it looked like silly toy money, more like a fairground ticket than legal tender. Now, of course, we use them without thinking twice (although I still have a soft spot for the old green notes). Plastic notes have even been introduced in London. The lesson? Sometimes, a small change is just small change.
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GEMINI May 22 – Jun 21
CANCER Jun 22 – Jul 22
Gemini, visualize the ice lemon tea. Simple, but elegant. Sweet, but a little tart. Cool, but not icy. That’s how I want you to see yourself this month. As a perfect combination of contrasts, made all the more unique because you combine them so well. Cast your eyes down that cha chaan teng menu… and then cast yourself as an ice lemon tea.
Junk season is approaching, and with that comes plenty of insecurity. Here’s one question: Are you bikini-body ready? Here’s another question: Who cares? When you’re on a junk, everyone’s chugging beers in swimsuits. Your six-pack, or lack thereof, will pass unnoticed. There’s no need to be so selfconscious: Embrace your body, crack a brew, and dive right in.
SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 – Dec 21
CAPRICORN Dec 22 – Jan 20
Andy Lau is one of the “Four Heavenly Kings” – the gods of 90s Cantopop. He doesn’t seem to have aged at all since those days. What’s his secret? Does he bathe in the blood of the innocent? Is his body 90% botox? Is it just a LOT of moisturiser? Sagittarius, these questions don’t matter. What matters is keeping your heart and soul young. Then it’s Andy Lau who’ll be asking for YOUR secret.
Sai Ying Pun was one of the first districts of Hong Kong, originally settled by the British army. In recent years it’s become more popular and gentrified, with plenty of trendy restaurants. Some worry that the neighborhood is losing its identity. Do you find yourself changing to suit others, Capricorn? Try not to be like Sai Ying Pun, no matter how nice it feels to fit in with the hip crowd.
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The latest green issues affecting our city!
L
et me explore the fracas surrounding the closure of Murray Road Car Park, to show why we need a ‘Park’n Walk’ strategy. The government closed Central’s Murray Road Car Park in April and sold the site in May. The tender price hit a record high of $23.28 bn. It will become a commercial tower with 40,000 square metres of Grade A office space. The sale is part of a policy to increase commercial floor area in core business districts. Next up are Queensway Plaza and the government’s offices in Wan Chai. Not everyone is happy with the closure of the car park. The loss of the 388 parking spaces is expected to be a disaster for traffic conditions. The many chauffeur driven cars that used the car park are now expected to roam the streets of Central, blocking traffic to wait for their employers. The Transport Department counters that, save for motorbikes, there is sufficient space in nearby carparks. But there is a snag. The available spaces are in Cheung Kong Centre. Those familiar with traffic flows in Central will see the foolishness here. The queue of traffic to go down the ramp in front of Bank of China onto Queen’s Road Central regularly causes back ups all the way to Wan Chai. More vehicles leaving Cheung Kong Centre car park will further immobilize the Ice House and Pedder Street junctions. This is why we at Designing Hong Kong asked the government to delay the closure and sale of Murray Car Park, and first redevelop City Hall Car Park into a large multi-storey structure, connected via footbridge to the AIA Central building. Let’s be clear – we’re not asking for more car parking spaces. We urge to reduce the number of parking spaces planned for the redevelopment of Murray Car Park and Hutchison House. Instead, we recommend rethinking where we locate car parking spaces. If we rebuild City Hall Car Park, we could effectively shift
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Photo by Baycrest - Wikipedia user - CC-BY-SA-2.5.
Park’n Walk
zim city
the parking spaces from the south to the north of Connaught Road. This would stop vehicles circulating in congested areas and allow direct access from the main roads. From there, we would need footbridges and tunnels to make it easy to walk to the rest of Central. This is a ‘Park’n Walk’ strategy. It requires joinedup thinking by the Development Bureau, which wants to sell land; the Transport Department, which wants to reduce congestion; the Planning Department, which determines where parking spaces are added; and the LCSD, which wants to expand City Hall by removing the car park. Not only does the LCSD’s plan make it harder to implement the proposed strategy, it flies in the face of decisions by the West Kowloon Cultural District to introduce new venue spaces such as the Medium Theatre II, Multi Performance Venue and Centre for Contemporary Performance. What we propose is nothing new. Rumsey Street Car Park fulfills exactly this ‘Park’n Walk’ strategy for Sheung Wan. And the Star Ferry Car Park and underpass facilitate ‘Park’n Walk’ for the area near Pedder Street. Let’s recognize what works and expand the coverage in Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and older urban areas in Kowloon and the New Territories before opening our borders to more vehicles.
Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, a Southern District Councillor and the co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks alliance.
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Christian Mongendre
my mid-levels The co-founder of MANA! and owner of HOME - Eat to Live discusses his vegetarianism, love of nature and filmmaking. Q: Have you lived anywhere else in Hong Kong? A: Before Mid-Levels, I lived in Sai Kung. It was beautiful, sea views, mountains and very affordable. It was just the commute that was very difficult on me. Q: How well do you know your neighbours? A: I don’t know them at all. I am mostly found in my office or restaurant. In Sai Kung I used to. Q: What’s the best thing about Mid-Levels? A: Convenience, accessibility to the mountains and the view. I guess my heart is more in Sai Kung, but I fell in love with my Mid-levels apartment because it’s in a transitional area: I can exit the building and be surrounded by nature, this close to the city - it’s incredible. There are all of these animals, even porcupines. Actually, Hong Kong is extremely balanced: it has so much nature, so many mountains and crazy, grand buildings. That’s the excitement of it.
Q: Tell me about yourself. A: I was born as a vegetarian in Hong Kong. I grew up in Paris and would go to our country house every weekend, which exposed me to many animals: cats, ducks, geese, hamsters, rabbits and more. I love restaurants, hotels and creating spaces for people to be in - I always wanted to be the guy behind the scenes. Fast food operations, such as McDonald’s, interested me in terms of their scale and systems, but not the actual food. Q: What brought you to Hong Kong? A: I lived here until I was two and a half, that’s a big part of why I wanted to come back: I was living between France and America and had little knowledge of where I was born. Q: What were your first impressions of Hong Kong? A: I felt automatically at ease and this incredible energy. There’s so much hiking and nature, it wasn’t at all what I expected. I totally felt like I was from here and that I could do something to add value. Q: Tell me something that might surprise people about you A: M y number one passion used to be cinema and filmmaking: from 7 to 22 all I did was make movies. My fiancée is an actor so I like to live vicariously through her. One of my dreams is to produce movies with high educational and environmental value. Q: What has been of your biggest challenges in Hong Kong? A: N ot getting overwhelmed. The energy is super powerful. There are a lots of opportunities to grow but you have to ground yourself. Going into nature every weekend is a must for me, to be in a safe space and relax.
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Q: What’s the worst thing about Mid-Levels? A: There’s no neighbourhood feel. There aren’t many places to meet people, you have to go down to Soho for that. Everyone’s going somewhere so people don’t interact much. Q: Favourite restaurant? A: Pure Veggie House on MacDonnell Road. It’s my neighbourhood restaurant. I love going there with my fiance for dim sum and to hang out. They use really good quality produce. Q: Best kept secret in Mid-Levels? A: The trails - specifically, the one that starts at the end of Old Peak Road and then branches out. If you have rope, you can also do rock climbing. To me, that’s insane. I turn around and see the whole city - I’m doing this in the middle of Hong Kong - wow. Q: Where are you most likely to be found on a Sunday? A: Hiking. I love Mount Austin, hiking and picnicking out there, meditating and chilling. That’s where I recharge. Q: What would you change about your local area? A: A larger sense of community that doesn’t involve high-class membership. I think there is a sense of community if you have children, but I don’t have that. Q: Do you have any ideas to combat that? A: Off the top of my head, it would be a modular community concept where people could work and chill, meet and hold events/ birthday parties and more. Q: What is your vision for the organic/ vegetarian/ vegan scene in Hong Kong? A: I feel like there is a need for this everywhere in the world. We want to build a strong Hong Kong brand and potentially expand to greater Asia. It’s such a wonderful thing to be in Asia.
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