Sai Kung October 2017

FAMILY | FOOD | HOME | HALLOWEEN

October 2017

HIKE TO IT!

With The Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Hiking Guide

Chatting with Kim Minards Sai Kung Restaurateur

A place in the sun

Investing in property abroad

Think pink

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Enter ou

Readersr Survey ’

to win BI G prizes

The really useful magazine October 2017

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26 READERS’ SURVEY

PEOPLE 4 Snapped!

Sai Kung’s social life THE PLANNER 6 Happening in October What’s on. Plus Breast Cancer Awareness Month FAMILY

NEWS 14 What’s going on?

In your backyard

16 Free stuff Fab things to win

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

18 Steve Pheby Director of Hong Kong Hikers LOCAL

12 Ghastly goods Things to buy this Halloween season

GIVEAWAYS

17 Tell us about yourself Enter to win a six-month contract at Pure!

20 Landfill conundrum More trouble in Long Keng VILLAGE FOCUS 22 Tsak Yue Wu A sleepy village connected by trails ON PATROL 23 Police blotter Sai Kung Police updates

5 COVER STORY 24 The Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Hiking Guide Explore the trails EDUCATION 32 CDNIS On innovation, technology, and the education revolution EATING 36 Sharing the love Chatting with Kim Minards.

Plus Nibbles TRAVEL 40 Home away from home Buying property abroad: we ask the expats and the experts HOROSCOPE 48 Signs from the stars Adam White predicts your future

ZIM CITY 50 Paul Zimmerman on...

The Citizens Task Force PETS 52 Ask Dr. Pauline Pet eccentricities and abnormalities explained. Plus Walkies.

GARDENING 53 In the garden What to plant in October VINES IN SAI KUNG 56 Selective hearing Stephen Vines weighs in

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Find us on Facebook Sai Kung Magazine

“IF YOU CAN FIND A PATH WITH NO OBSTACLES, IT PROBABLY DOESN’T LEAD ANYWHERE.” - BEAR GRYLLS

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contributors

Catharina Ceijihneg,uLonngdon

g a po re, B ... ha s lived in Sin a n d re ce nt ly ch os e to m, a n d N otti n g ha g. She is a n a sp irin g K on g on is m retu rn to H vocate fo r fe m in of d a rm fi a t, lo g ve r po ly es, a n d a big lo a n d L G BT Q issu m ost lik ely fi n d he r ill a ni m a ls. Y ou w n es at k a ra ok e, or tu ow sh t c belti n g ou scrib blin g crypti es or st y er n io at st in n te st er pa d s. m essa g es on pe

Mehul Dhakka ... is a nati

on al award win ni ng arti st, now ba sed in Hon g K on g, who se cr azy child hood d rea m was to bu y T he W alt D is ne y C om pa ny . By d ay, M eh ul is a co ns ulta nt fo r IT st artu ps in A si a; by night he is a ca rt oo n arti st. F in d hi s late st work d otted th ro ug hout this m ag az in e a nd on In st ag ra m @ m yh a ndtoon s a nd ha ndtoon s. co m

Carolynner a nDd Eedaitorr

ce w rite … is a free la n M a g a zin e. S h e h a s of Ex pat Pa re nt o a re m e m bers of a h fo u r ch il d re n w nt H on g K on g sch oo ls re fe if s n ot va ri et y of d a n d w h en sh e’ ice s, b u cl ts or sp se rv and r- to -d oo r ta x i p ro vi din g a d oo d sca li n g H on g K on g ’s n sh e ca n be fo u in g h a lf m a rath on s. n n ru pe a k s a n d

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

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people Snaps from Sai Kung

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say cheese Snaps from Sai Kung

Clean Pak Sha Wan Day

Share your event photos with us at photo@hongkongliving.com. Get snapping!

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planner

OCT 21-22

The Hebe Haven Yacht Club 24 Hour Charity Dinghy Race 2017 Held just in front of Hebe Haven Yacht Club, the annual Hebe Haven Yacht Club 24-Hour Dinghy Race is the longest and only endurance aquathon in Hong Kong and South Asia. The event features a mini-village where families can unwind and watch the boats race through the two-day weekend.

Race starts at 2pm, Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung. To register, visit hebehaven24hour.com

UNTIL OCT 22 Priscilla Queen of the Desert Based on the Oscar-winning movie, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is the story of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus named Priscilla, searching for love and friendship.

They end up on a journey of self-discovery and the road trip of a lifetime across the Australian outback. The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Lyric Theatre. Tickets from $445 via hkticketing.com.hk

OCT 1 National Day A day commemorating the anniversary of the

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establishment of the People’s Republic of China.

Catch the fireworks as they light up Victoria Harbour, starts at 9pm.

OCTOBER 1-29 Halloween costume crafting Learn sewing techniques, make fantasy wear and turn everyday items into scary designs. No prior knowledge required. Wearing long pants, close-fitted shirts and closed-toe non-slip shoes on the day. 2:30-5:30pm on October 1,8,15,22 and 29. At MakerBay Central, PMQ Unit H-508. $480 per person per session. Register at makerbay.org

Strays Go To Sunday Market!

If you’re thinking about either adopting, fostering, sponsoring dogs, or even just volunteering now’s your chance! Meet some stray friends who are looking for their forever home. 11am-5pm, Hong Kong Academy, 33 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung. For more information visit facebook.com/saikungstrayfriendshk

OCT 1

happening in October grand prize of US$500,000. The first three days of the tournament are free to the public on a first come, first-served basis. Thereafter, tickets start at $160. Victoria Park Tennis Stadium, Causeway Bay. Buy tickets at cityline.com and Tom Lee outlets, or call 2111 5333

OCT 12 Helena May Charity Bazaar

OCT 2 The day following National Day

OCT 4 Mid-Autumn Festival

Public holiday!

Held on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, this festival stems from an ancient harvest ritual. Take the chance to put your feet up—or enjoy the lanterns and mooncakes.

OCT 2 Sotheby’s Contemporary Ink Art Auction: Confluence A thematic sale of contemporary art spanning works by artists trained in, or influenced by, the ink painting tradition. The sale features paintings by artists such as Hans Hartung, CharlesHossein Zenderoudi, Krishen Khanna and Isamu Noguchi. 11am, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. More information at sothebys.com

OCT 3-6 Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance Festival Dating back to 1880, the annual Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance Festival returns as part of the Mid-Autumn Festival. For three nights and days, visitors can see the famous 67-metre-long ‘fire dragon’ as it winds its way through the streets of Tai Hang. Around 10:45–11:30pm on October 4 at Victoria Park. All other dates, around 8:15–10:30pm at Tai Hang. For more information visit taihangfiredragon.hk

OCT 5-11 Contemporary Bonsai Exhibition 2017 Organised by the Penjing Association of Hong Kong, the exhibition will feature some of Hong Kong’s famous bonsai artists. 10am-7pm at Kowloon Park, Tsim Sha Tsui. Free admission.

For more information call 8202 8112 or visit facebook.com/PenjingHK

OCT 5 The day following Chinese MidAutumn Festival Public holiday!

OCT 5 Monkey God Festival

Over 50 stalls selling handmade crafts, jewellery, accessories and books, among other things, on the day. The Helena May, 35 Garden Road, Central. Call 2522 6766 or visit helenamay.com for more information.

SUNDAYS FROM OCT 15 Container Port BBQ Boat Trip Join a tour on a boat trip that explores one of the largest and busiest container ports in the world. See ships loading, unloading, refueling, and being pushed by tugs. 11am-3:30pm. $900 per adult, $760 per child, including a sausage sizzle, salads and vegetables, carrot cake and beer, wine, soft drinks and water. Book tickets at hongkongyachting.com

Pop-up shop

OCT 12

A range of local businesses showcase their wares in this day-long pop-up shop. Participating businesses include Ladies Who Lunch Dresses, Not Only Olives, Gifts In A Tin, And Small Print Jewelry, Orangutan Aid and The Lovely Mara. 11am-4pm at CENA in the square, Sai Kung. For enquiries, call Claire Brownless on 6100 0253 or Angela on 6114 4219.

Falling on the 16th day of the eighth lunar month, this festival celebrates the Monkey God from the Ming Dynasty novel Journey To The West. Watch people burn incense and paper offerings at the Monkey God Temple at Po Tat Estate in Sau Mau Ping. For more information call 2717 3378

OCT 7-15 Hong Kong Tennis Open The Hong Kong Tennis Open returns for the fourth year. Watch as world-class players descend on Hong Kong to battle it out for the

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planner OCT 14-19 Local Colour

OCT 21 Michaelmas Fair

Sarah Bent is showcasing her artwork.

A self-taught artist, Bent’s artwork is done mainly in watercolour. She has exhibited in England, America, Australia, and many countries in Asia. noon-4pm daily, closed on Wednesday. Opening reception on October 14, 6-8:30pm. Closed on Wednesdays. H Studio Gallery, 1/1 Wan King Path, Sai Kung. For more information, contact Helen Boyd at 9123 8664.

A fundraising event for local charities and St John’s Cathedral. There will be stalls and booths, selling bargain items, clothing, accessories, food and drink, as well as live performances and game booths. 10am-4pm, St John’s Cathedral, Central.

OCT 21-NOV 3 Instacollective

OCT 26-29 Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival This festival brings world-class food, drinks and entertainment to the Victoria Harbour skyline.

Enjoy wine-pairing menus prepared by master chefs, tasting classes with industry experts, and wine and food booths spanning everything from single malts to artisanal cheese. Central Harbourfront Event Space, $30 admission. For opening times, visit discoverhongkong.com

An exhibition that shows the relationship between digitality and physicality. Experience a rearrangement of what is already familiar through physical manifestations of online concepts.

Geneyclee Gallery, 702, 7/F, Sunbeam Centre, 27 Shing Yip Street, Kwun Tong, geneycleegallery.com. Spaces limited for opening reception on October 20 (6-9pm). RSVP to info@geneycleegallery.com

OCT 19-28 Under Our Shelter A curated look at Hong Kong’s history as a place of refuge using new, archived and privately held images, many of which have never been displayed in public. The Grand Opening Night runs from 6:30-9:30pm on October 19 at Loft 22, California Tower, Lan Kwai Fong. Tickets available at ticketflap.com for $288 which includes entry and a catalogue of photos. All other nights are free entry with a suggested donation of $100. The event will be moved to St Andrew’s Church, Tsim Sha Tsui between October 23-28. facebook.com/ events/360831787682741

OCT 21-28 Forest Bathing Guided Walk Connect with nature and engage in a forest therapy walk. Be led through a series of activities designed to slow you down, open your senses and connect to your intuition so you experience the forest in a way you never have before. $380 per person. 8-11am, meeting at Sai Kung Town Taxi Stand on September 21 and Shek Kip Mei Station Exit A on September 28. To sign up and find more information, visit kembali.org

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OCT 22 ESF 50th Anniversary Marathon In celebration of ESF’s 50th anniversary. Race categories include 1km to 10km runs and a 1km family walk. There will also be a community carnival. Visit the carnival from 9:30am–4pm at Edinburgh Place, Central, and watch the races from 8–10:30am at the Central harbourfront.

OCT 24-31 Lan Kwai Fong Halloween Party Watch as Hong Kong’s premier party zone becomes the playground for a massive street party, with costume and cosplay, featured drinks, Monster Mash competition, live performances and more throughout the week. Lan Kwai Fong, Central. Get more details at lankwaifong.com

OCT 28 Chung Yeung Festival Also called the Double Ninth Festival because it falls on the ninth day of the ninth month of the Lunar calendar. Similar to the Ching Ming Festival, families go to cemeteries to visit graves and worship ancestors.

OCT 31 Halloween Boo! See page 12 for our ghastly goods.

The Sedan Chair Charity Race Race with a sedan chair to raise money for charity. All funds will go to local small charities which run education, health or social welfare community programmes. The Matilda International Hospital, Mount Kellett Road. Sign up at sedanchairace.org

OCT 29

happening in October

BOOK NOW NOV 11 Hong Kong Rugby Union Charity Ball Enjoy a night of classic rock and help to raise funds for Po Leung Kuk, to support Hong Kong’s underprivileged children via education and rugby training programmes. $2,488 per person including a gourmet dinner, all-night drinks, and a concert by World Classic Rockers. Black tie dress code. HKCEC, Wan Chai. Book at ticketflap.com/hkrucharityball

NOV 17-19 Clockenflap Hong Kong’s biggest music and arts festival is back for its 10th edition. Growing rapidly in size since 2007, it has hosted many global names, and this year’s stars feature Cashmere Cat, Massive Attack, MØ, The Prodigy and more.

$1,620 for a three-day pass. Single day passes start from $890, with student discounts starting from $570. Book online at clockenflap.com.

Central Harbourfront, 9 Lung Wo Road, Central.

Don’t forget to enter our giveaway for a chance to win a pair of three-day passes, see page 16.

NOV 18 Women’s Five November Run Women’s Five combines yoga and running to help ladies achieve their fitness goals.

Registration includes a five-week health and wellness program prior to the run and weekly training meetups. You can also register for the run only. Prices start at $390, with discounts for teams. Register at womensfive.com

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

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think pink

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Show your support at these events around the city

NOV 2 PINK CHIC: Ladies Lunch and Pop-up Event

UNTIL OCT 31 Shop for Pink Over 20 restaurants and brands including Calvin Klein, Pandora, and Pizza Express are supporting HK Cancer Fund’s Pink Revolution with exclusive pink offers covering fashion, jewellery, lifestyle, beauty and dining throughout October. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to support Hong Kong Cancer Fund’s free breast cancer services. Visit pink.cancer-fund.org for more details.

OCT 21 Karma Yoga: Vinyasa Flow with Pure Yoga teachers Wendy, Shoko & Lizz In support of Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation (HKBCF). Open to the public, all levels welcome. To reserve your mat contact any Pure Yoga Studio. A minimum donation of $300 is required upon registration; pre-registration is required. All donations go to HKBCF. 2-4pm, The Centrium, pure-yoga.com

UNTIL NOV 30 Pink Desserts

OCT 22 Pink Walk for Breast Health

Indulge your sweet tooth in this charity culinary event. From September through till November, over 30 Hong Kong dessert houses are cooking up some exclusive desserts to support the Hong Kong Hereditary Breast Cancer Family Registry. Participating dessert places include Back Bar, Aberdeen Street Social, 208 Duecento Otto, Jimmy’s Kitchen (Central), The Royal Garden, AMMO Hong Kong, Jouer, Luna Cake and Hyatt Regency Sha Tin amongst others. Visit asiabreastregistry.com for a full list of merchants and more details.

Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation’s flagship event. Gather your family, friends, and colleagues for a 3.5 kilometre fundraising walk around The Peak. 8:15am-1pm. Meet at the Peak Road Garden (the open space between the Peak Galleria and the Peak Tower). Open to all aged 3 and above but participants under 13 must be accompanied by adults. Minimum donation required per participant. Don’t forget to dress in pink. Enrol online at hkcf.org/pinkwalk before midnight October 8.

OCT 11 Pink Day at the Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open Dress in pink and support breast health during the Tennis Open. Limited tickets. All proceeds go to the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation. Call 3143 7311 for further details. Victoria Park Tennis Stadium, Causeway Bay

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OCT 27 Dress Pink day Wear pink—it could be a pair of socks or an entire outfit. All participants are encouraged to donate $120 or more to sponsor a Pink Recovery Pack for cancer patients who have just undergone surgery.

Each pack contains items to help with the postsurgery healing process including a temporary breast prosthesis. You can raise money online as a group, an organisation, or individual; all funds will go directly towards Hong Kong Cancer Fund’s free breast cancer care services for patients and their families. Visit pink.cancer-fund.org

After their hugely successful ‘Fifty Shade of Pink’ event last year, the Sai Kung Pink Ladies are back with a lunch and popup event at St. Barts, Clearwater Bay. Tickets will include a three-course set menu, a glass of wine and prosecco. Every lucky guests at the event will receive a sports bra donated by Escapade Sports. The Pop-up event will feature Bella Blu Design, Janne Poulsen Jewellery and ZenVara.

To round the event off, the Sai Kung Pink Ladies will hold a silent auction showcase of Louise Hill’s pink peony artwork. Ladies remember to dress to impress as there will be an event raffle and prizes for best dressed. Noon-12pm, $500 per ticket.

Email skpinkladies@yahoo.com to book tickets.

DEC 3 Pink Heels Race Don a pair of pink heels and run for charity at Stanley’s annual race in aid of breast cancer awareness. There is also a Pink 5K Run in the morning (10:30-11:30am) for those looking for a bigger challenge. 12.30-3.30pm, Stanley Main Street. Enrol by November 9 at pinkheels.hk

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting women in Hong Kong. It is estimated that 1 in 16 women in Hong Kong are at risk of developing breast cancer. Though rare, approximately 1 in 1,000 men worldwide contract breast cancer too.

The ongoing operation of Hong Kong Cancer Fund’s free support services relies heavily on funding. To make a monthly donation of $100 or find out more about the Pink Revolution see cancer-fund.org. For anyone affected by cancer, the Hong Kong Cancer Fund hotline is 3667 3000.

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family

Goodie Beetle Dog Suit $248 from Doggie Goodie doggiegoodie.com

Halloween Cupcakes $280 per dozen standard size or $200 per two dozen mini size from Complete Deelite 11-15 On Lan Street, Central completedeelite.com

Be very afraid

Embrace the Halloween season with Catharina Cheung’s choice of tricks and treats

Kids Skeleton Suspender $79.90 from H&M Stores across Hong Kong including Tseung Kwan O hm.com

Halloween Foam Mask (3-pack) $59.90 from H&M online only hm.com

Halloween Cookie Treat Bags $28 per bag of eight from Complete Deelite completedeelite.com

Halloween Taster $60 each from Ms B’s CAKERY 39 Gough Street, Central, 2815 8303 msbscakery.hk

Halloween Candy Rocks Starting from $68 from papabubble 34 Tung Lo Wan Road, Causeway Bay papabubble.com.hk

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ghastly goods Hanging Skeleton Decoration $78 from Eezy Peezy Parties eezypeezyparties.com

Spooky floral dinner plate $45 from Swoon swoonxoxo.com Halloween Tic-Tac-Toe $160 from Swoon swoonxoxo.com

Bloody Hand Latex Balloons $35 for six from Party Time Four locations including Prince’s Building and Times Square partytime.com.hk

Death By Chocolate 5,200 from Ms B’s CAKERY $ 39 Gough Street, Central, 2815 8303 msbscakery.hk

Jack O’Lantern Piñata $180 from Party Time Four locations including Prince’s Building and Times Square partytime.com.hk

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news

Residents come together for beach cleanups

New Stingrays junior netball team Sai Kung Stingrays are to add a junior netball team to their roster if there is a demand for it in the Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay area. Tryouts for the under-10, under-12 and under-14 teams started on September 9, 16 and 23. The new netball team will train at Nord Anglia International School on Saturday mornings from 8-10am. League games take place on Saturdays during October to December and Sundays during January to March the first league games begins on October 14.

Visit saikungstingrays.com for more information.

Clearwater Bay Beach reopens

Volunteers collect rubbish at Pak Sha Wan

The annual Clean Pak Sha Wan Day was held on September 17 and saw over 200 volunteers do their part in keeping Sai Kung’s beaches clean.

An approximate total of 2.9 tonnes of rubbish was collected from over seven beaches in the Pak Sha Wan area around Port Shelter. This year the volunteers also sorted out 77 bags of plastic and styrofoam for recycling (25 per cent of the total collected rubbish). Every year there are always

a few unusual items found, this year volunteers found two tenders, two canoes and a jet ski.

Earlier in the month, Carol Biddell and Margarita Hoyos led another team of 20 volunteers and cleaned the beach near Tai Wan - collecting 72 bags altogether.

Visit hkcleanup.org to learn more about beach cleaups in Hong Kong.

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced the reopening of Clearwater Bay Second Beach. The beach was temporarily closed for clearance work and maintenance of the shark prevention net after it was damaged during Typhoon Pakhar.

However, at the time of writing, several other beaches around Hong Kong remain closed including Deep Water Bay Beach, Pui O Beach and Tong Fuk Beach. These beaches remain closed until further notice to clear debris and repair the damage to the shark prevention nets due to the typhoon. Red flags have been hoisted at the beaches, and beach-goers are advised not to swim.

For more information visit lcsd.gov.hk

oBike cycles into Hong Kong Singapore’s bike-sharing platform, oBike, enters the Hong Kong market with 1,000 bikes across the New Territories and Lantau Island. It is the first overseas player to enter the burgeoning bike-sharing business in Hong Kong. The company’s first set of bikes are located in major residential areas with well-established bike lanes, such as Ma On Shan, Tseung Kwan O, Yuen Long, as well as on Lantau.

Riders will need to pay a deposit of $350 using a mobile application before they can start riding.

Unlike Gobee.bike, which launched earlier this year, users must return bikes to a designated public bikeparking area. The app is available for download on both iOS and Android.

For more information visit their website o.bike

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in your backyard

New Tala’s has opened

Sir David Tang dies Businessman, socialite and philanthropist Sir David Tang died in London on August 30 at the age of 63. The grandson of one of Hong Kong’s most prominent philanthropists, Sir Tang Shiu Kin, he was born in Hong Kong, but educated in Britain, where he studied philosophy at King’s College and law at Cambridge University. In 1994, after working briefly at his grandfather’s solicitor firm and Swire Properties, Tang started his own ventures, founding the fashion brand Shanghai Tang and a string of clubs and restaurants. In 2008, Tang was knighted for his philanthropy work in both Britain and Hong Kong. Known for his connections, he counted the likes of Russell Crowe, Stephen Fry, Kate Moss and the late Princess Diana among his friends. Tang died at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea after a long battle with liver cancer, with his wife, Lucy, at his bedside. He is survived by two children, Edward and Victoria, from a previous marriage.

The new Tala’s Hair & Beauty Centre has opened on See Cheung Street in Sai Kung Old Town.

The new location is upstairs, opposite Little Cove Coffee Shop. Designed by Jepsen Designs and constructed by local Sai Kung builder Mike Turner, the interior is bright and fresh and offers clients a new boutique experience in Sai Kung.

To celebrate the move and to more accurately identify with the new interior, Tala’s has rebranded as a Boutique establishment.

Owner and manager Mojdeh Kazemi says “Tala’s new home is a wonderful change. Clients love the space and we love being here”. Tala’s regulars will recognize some features from the

old shopfront have remained. “We wanted to bring our signature colourful shop front and of course our unique door handles to our new home” says Mojdeh.

“We offer the same hair and beauty services at lower prices. Now that the weather is cooler, our clients can enjoy manicure, pedicure even Brazilian Blowout outside on our private rooftop.

We feel that being in Sai Kung old town brings Tala’s to a vibrant and exciting part of Sai kung.” says Mojdeh.

1st Floor, 37 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung. For more information, contact Mojdeh Kazemi on 2335 1694

Python is relocated after it kills calf

Photo courtesy of Karina O’Carroll Sai Kung Buffalo Watch (SKBW)

A Burmese python was captured and relocated after it killed a young calf in the country park.

Sai Kung Buffalo Watch responded to the call when the scene was spotted by a dog walker and reported. Due to the area’s popularity with children and dog walkers, the snake was taken to Kadoorie Farm. We spoke to snake catcher William Sargent for his thoughts on the incident, “People are scared, it looks scary and I understand why people automatically think it should be moved. However, a more comprehensive response might be to work out if it actually needs moving and if it could be monitored to at least finish its meal. A lot more education and understanding needs to happen.

The biggest issue for the python is the threat of interference by people. Wherever possible, snakes should be left alone, but if they have to be moved, they should be released nearby.

Research indicates that some species can be

O Tau house vandalised

negatively impacted when they are moved far from their usual habitat or range.”

To learn more about snakes in Hong Kong visit facebook.com/groups/hongkongsnakes

A three-storey rented property in O Tau was vandalised on September 12 in a case of criminal damage. Perpetrators splashed red paint on the walls and smashed two windows. The crime was discovered when the informant returned to find the house had been vandalised. The home in question was empty at the time of the incident and luckily no one was injured. Police believe the incident was caused by a dispute between the landlord - not the tenants - and nearby developers about access, and are treating it as a land dispute. Patrols around the area have been stepped up as a result of the incident to ensure the safety of residents and the case is being taken very seriously by the police. So far, no one has been arrested in relation to the incident.

Anyone with information about the crime should contact the Sai Kung Police Station on 3361 1630.

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giveaways

win at hongkongliving.com M.int Academy Co-founded by Hong Kong sisters Andrea and Philippa Wong, M.int Academy is the city’s newest premium music academy. It strives to provide personalised top-quality classical music training and create an inclusive musical community.

We’re giving away five private classes valued at $4,600 to one lucky winner. Choose any instrument from the programme, or even mix and match classes. For more information, visit mintacademyhk.com

Grand prize: FAMILY STAYCATION Summer holiday feeling like a distant memory?

We’re treating one family to a staycation at the Hyatt Regency Sha Tin, worth over $8,000.

Relax and enjoy a night’s stay in the two-bedroom family suite, with a complimentary breakfast buffet and one activity for two children at Camp Hyatt.

Plus, with the heat finally wearing off it’s a great time to get outdoors, so we’re also

Clockenflap Hong Kong’s biggest music and arts festival is back for its 10th edition. Growing rapidly in size since 2007, many global acts have graced its stages. This year’s star-studded lineup features Massive Attack, The Prodigy, MØ and many more to be announced.

We have three pairs of three-day weekend passes, valued at $1,940 each, to give away.

throwing in an Ultraspire hydration vest— perfect for trail running and hiking—and a copy of The Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Hiking Guide.

Enter now to win both prizes, worth a total of $10,000! Get a free chapter of the Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Hiking Guide upon entering.

Mothercare Leading British retailer of products for mothers-to-be, babies and children Mothercare presents “Mothercare 1st Baby Expo”, a four-day convention running from November 2-5 at KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Over 90 companies will take part in the expo, where families can find great bargains, including $1 products and free gifts. For information, visit mothercare.com.hk We are giving away one Snapkis Transformers 0-4 Car Seat, valued at $1,199. The first 60 entries will each get a pair of free tickets to the expo.

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

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Hong Kong Living

Readers’ Survey 2017 We need YOU! Help us improve and continue being the most useful and trusted guide on Hong Kong living.

Entr deadli y ne: 8 Dec 2017

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Pure Yoga & Pure Fitness $12,800 6-month contract

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five minutes with

Publisher

Tom Hilditch tom@hongkongliving.com

Editorial

Editor-in-Chief Shreena Patel shreena@hongkongliving.com Contributing Editor Carolynne Dear carolynne@hongkongliving.com

Photo by Fabian Weiss

Editor Eric Ho eric@hongkongliving.com Editorial Assistant Catharina Cheung catharina@hongkongliving.com

Design

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

Digital

Digital Assistant Cora Chan cora@hongkongliving.com

Thanks to

Adam White Daniel Tsang Dr. Pauline Taylor Jai Rane Jennifer Lee Paul Zimmerman Rebecca Simpson Stephen Vines

Published by

Hong Kong Living Ltd. Floor LG1, 222 Queens Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

Steve Pheby

The director of Hong Kong Hikers talks to Eric Ho about his journey from coach potato to seasoned hiker I am originally from the UK. I was born in England but was brought up in North Wales near Snowdonia - up until I was 11 years old. We moved around the UK quite a lot due to my father’s work and only lived in one place for a maximum of three years.

In 1989 I left to travel. I travelled all around Europe before spending time in Israel and Canada.

I ended up in Turkey in 1992 and spent 20 years there. That’s where I met my wife Jackie. We got married in Istanbul 6 years ago and had a great life there. My wife eventually got an opportunity to come to Hong Kong and we thought it was time for a change.

I was the trailing spouse and at first I wasn’t sure what I was going to do.

HONG KONG hongkongliving.com

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My sister-in-law, Roz, dragged me out on my first Sai Kung hike. We walked down MacLehose Trail Section 2 from Pak Tam Au. I remember the feral cows in the middle of the trail and making Roz walk past them first. Upon reaching Ham Tim, we ordered an ice-cold

Ribena drink. We didn’t feel like walking anymore so the shop owner organised a boat for us. It was a stunning boat ride and it helped convince me to move to Sai Kung later on.

Living in Kowloon we never knew our neighbours, but when we first moved to Sai Kung we were given welcome cards and a bottle of wine from our neighbours - Sai Kung has a special communal feel.

My friend Paul had a hiking meetup group called Hong Kong Hikers. I went on a hike with him and some friends to Peng Chau.

Walking up Finger Hill, I stopped four times to climb 100 steps from exhaustion. Everyone was waiting for me at the top whilst Paul was trying to encourage me to get up.

I realised how seriously unfit I was compared to other people.

So I told myself I had to do it, I had to get better. At the time I weighed 125 kilograms and had only just stopped smoking.

I went on a couple of more easy hikes and then went onto a

moderate one. I bought the gear, proper shoes and listened to the advice of fellow hikers. Within a year I started leading hikes.

I hiked the whole MacLehose Trail, although not in one go, to learn the trail. After that, I did the Wilson and then the Lantau trail.

The last was the Hong Kong Trail which I managed to complete in one go.

Paul decided he didn’t want Hong Kong Hikers anymore so he asked if I wanted to take it over - which I did. At the same time I started getting enquiries from companies from Hong Kong and Singapore about doing organised team building hikes. I wanted it to be legitimate so I registered Hong Kong Hikers as a limited company this was last year February.

Hong Kong Hikers now consists of two sides. The commercial side, where people come to me for our services and team building hikes.

And the meetup side, the social aspect where we get together with hiking enthusiasts and do several hikes per week.

the mountains are calling

Pheby prepping his hikers for the notorious Sharp Peak

I love being out in the countryside. I’m getting to know the countryside and the nature but also getting to know myself.

I’ve lost about 25 kilograms since I started hiking, maybe a little bit more. I’ve always wanted to lose weight but never done a diet.

I still enjoy my good food, good wine and good beer.

After a hike I usually end up in Anthony’s Ranch. Mainly because they have the coldest beers in town. Good service there, great food and very friendly people.

We currently have 1,700 members in our meetup group. I know there are bigger hiking groups around Hong Kong but we like to keep ours more social and friendly but most importantly safety first.

It gives me great reward to see people change from couch potatoes to semi-athletes who run and participate in races. No matter what their age or fitness level, I get a real buzz from seeing people transform their fitness levels just like I did.

Up above Ma On Shan

We started Lost Soles, our 25 and 50 kilometre charity event two years ago. The name derives from a joke that I would lose the soles of my shoes before retiring from the trails of Hong Kong. Those who want to join but are just starting out, keep an eye out for any easy hikes in our meetup groups. Follow the leader and ask them questions.

Lost Soles will be held on February 9, 2018.

There are only 52 spots for each. For more information visit lostsole50k.com or join a hike over at meetup.com/hong_kong_hikers

SAIKUNG.COM | 19

local

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Ongoing development between Long Keng and O Tau

Landfill conundrum

Landowner abroad is told to remove landfill done by developers without his knowledge. Catharina Cheung reports saikung.com ads@hongkongliving.com @saikungmag facebook.com/SaiKungMagazine GIVE US A CALL! Admin: 3568 3722 Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772, 3563 9755 Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Magazine is published by Hong Kong Living 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.

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A

Long Keng landowner whose plot is amongst those currently fenced off and being developed on, has been told to remove the landfill or face a penalty.

The landowner, who wishes to remain unnamed, has been living in the UK for approximately four decades, only last returning to Hong Kong 10 years ago when his father passed away.

In July, he received a letter from the Planning Department stating that there was illegal landfill occurring on his land, and he needed to revert the land to its original state or face legal consequences.

The landowner has contacted various government departments to seek advice, “The Planning Department’s told me that the landowner needs to restore the land, regardless of who actually authorised the operation”, said the landowner. They suggested

If you are well connected, you can do anything

he fence off his land so the developers will not be able gain access any more.

The Central Enforcement and Prosecution Section of the Planning Department gave us a similar response, “The landowner has a due responsibility to ensure that no unauthorised development occurs on his land, even if he has claimed that the site has been trespassed by someone unknown to him,” said a senior information officer. Non-compliance will result in prosecution action after a grace period of three months.

Chairman of the Sai Kung Rural Committee Wong Shui Sang has personally gone to Long Keng to view the situation and ask which one out of the three developers was the culprit behind the landfill - unfortunately no one owned up. Wong concluded there is nothing more he could do besides advising the landowner to hire a surveyor to get a better understanding of the circumstances, and then fence the land off.

The landowner feels he had unwittingly become a victim but received “no sympathy or help from the government”.

“In the UK, we have organisations like the citizen’s advice bureau to help us. Also, in the first place, you’d never really get something like this happening in the UK - people go by the book and won’t just steal your property outright. But in Hong Kong, if you are well connected, you can do

pushing the blame

Above, fences shield developments. Right, sign warning no entry without permit

anything, even forcing people to sell you their land”, he laments.

Having left Hong Kong aged 14, he admits to not fully understanding or being able to reconcile with such differences. He hopes the government would reflect on how transparency is severely lacking and to work on plugging the loopholes in the system. “It isn’t fair that landowners like me cannot do anything to defend themselves. There must be hundreds of others in my situation.”

Herve Bouvresse, Long Keng’s nonindigenous village representative, has more

to say on the matter.

Bouvresse showed us a map obtained from a Sai Kung real estate agency which indicates how a large swatch of land has already been designated as road access and car parking spaces. Unfortunately, he thinks he is fighting a losing battle. “A lot of the villagers are in on it; they have already sold their lands and received money from the developers. The only untainted section is probably the Lands Department, but they have too little power to do anything

substantial.”

In the face of opposition from all sides, all Bouvresse can do is halt the development as much as he can. So far, he has managed to file petitions to stop the building of roads for lorries and heavy goods vehicles in three different areas. With no road access for now, the development has been experiencing delays; they have had to forklift their machinery over fences and barriers into the building site.

Faced with the looming realisation that the development cannot be stopped in full, the next step in Bouvresse’s plans is to negotiate with the developers. “I can only hope they will agree to leaving some of the Green Belt intact. It would be a terrible shame otherwise; my children grew up playing in the wetland, and other children deserve to grow up connected with nature too, but how can that happen if all the land’s being eaten up by urban development?”

When told about the landowner’s story, he shook his head, “He will most probably end up selling his land - it’s too much trouble. To be honest, I’ll end up selling and leaving Long Keng in the future as well. I love the place, but at what cost? I’ll just do what I can to leave a bit of natural legacy behind.”

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village focus

Tsak Yue Wu

Catharina Cheung explores the sleepy village connected by hiking trails

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sak Yue Wu is a small quiet hamlet along Pak Tam Road, comprised of approximately 20 houses altogether.

The village can be reached via minibus 7 from Sai Kung Pier Bus Terminus, alighting at Tsak Yue Wu after a 20 minute ride. Buses 94 and 96R also pass the village, operating approximately every 35 minutes, but the 96R only runs on weekends.

Tsak Yue Wu village boasts an assortment of pretty houses with their own characteristics.

One unit near the top is practically overflowing with plant life; the homeowner’s large collection of potted plants literally spills out onto the pedestrian path, even strapping onto fencing and railings alike. The house behind all the greenery is a comfortable sheer white affair with terracotta roofing and large glass balconies, and a row of papaya trees running alongside it. The culminating effect is rather like a garden centre merged with a resort.

Their neighbour has an unexpectedly large conifer and further down towards the village centre are other houses that truly wouldn’t look out of place in an Indonesian seaside resort.

One wooden gated compound boasts a number of lush bamboo plants, as well as a lovely pair of ox statues to guard their entrance. Several trees along Pak Tam Road are flowering varieties, and bear bunches of berrylike fruit alongside its delicate lilac blossoms.

While the first two Cantonese characters of the village name, Tsak Yue Wu, is almost identical in

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Stream at the start of Pak Tam Chung Family Walk

both writing and pronunciation to the first two characters for Quarry Bay (Tsak Yue Chung). Tsak Yue Wu is translated as Carp Lake whilst Quarry Bay means cuttlefish. Anyone strolling through Tsak Yue Wu today will find it difficult to come by any carps but the nearby Pak Tam Chung Family Walk does cross a nice stream; you can hear it gurgling even whilst standing on the village main road. The small moss-covered sign on the bridge should be heeded, as the waters beneath have been known to rise until it covers the footpath.

Further up Pak Tam Chung Family Walk are several small farming plots behind chicken wire fences. It’s all very idyllic - strolling among the banana, papaya, and yam plants, peering through foliage down at little vegetable plots. Nestled in the greenery past the farm is a solitary village house hidden away from the village proper. The house’s red and yellow main gates are topped by three stone decorations, a rooster flanked by two fishes.

Continuing further along the Family Walk will lead visitors back down to the Sai Kung Country Park Visitors Centre in Pak Tam Chung.

Alternatively, following Pak Tam Road from the village proper heading north-west will lead to a bridge which marks the start of the scenic Tsak Yue Wu Stream trail. This passes several small to medium sized pools and waterfalls, which varies a lot in appearance during the dry and wet seasons due to differences in algae growth making it an extremely photogenic spot.

Re-emerging from the hiking trail and back onto Pak Tam Road, stroll past the last village house with a distinctive blue roof and bright red

Distinctive colours on the village house

door, here we were greeted by a rush of loud barking behind its fences, but it does little to disrupt the serenity that this small village exudes.

On the weekend it is more difficult to catch a bus, do be prepared for a bit of a wait. The nosy dog from before hops up to observe from a low wall as we clamber in, sending out a few more parting barks as the cab speeds off back towards Sai Kung town.

Want to be village correspondent? Email editorial@hongkongliving.com

Farming plots along the trail

on patrol

Police blotter Sai Kung Divisional Commandor Daniel Tsang reports on the recent cases

- After a string of four attempted burglary

cases in the space of two days, more than 50 police officers conducted an anti-burglary operation to sweep out the culprits who are hiding in Sai Kung’s hillside. The culprits are also suspected to be illegal immigrants.

- A 28 years old female hiker went out hiking

alone from Hoi Ha Wan but got lost. It was getting dark, so she called the police and was rescued. No injuries were reported.

- One individual was brought back to Sai Kung Police Station for failing to carry his Hong Kong Identity Card.

- An elderly man with dementia was admitted

into Tseung Kwan O Hospital but went missing around noon. He dissapeared without his Octopus Card, Hong Kong ID or any money. The case was reported to the police the following day. A coordinate sweep was

immediately executed of the surrounding area. After 30 hours of searching, the man was located on the side of New Clearwater Bay Road with cuts to his hand and legs from falling over. It was later discovered he was trying to walk back to his home in Ho Chung but took a wrong turn.

- A lady called the police when she got into

a dispute with her sister-in-law regarding whether to lease out the village house they own. The case was settled after mediation by officers.

- The thief who stole two bags of meat

from Jaspas back in February has been sentenced to 14 months imprisonment and to compensate Jaspas with $200.

- A case of criminal damage happened to

a rented property in O Tau. Red paint was splashed against the walls and a couple

of windows were smashed. The police are currently investigating the scene and believe the incident occurred due to an access dispute between the landlord, not the tenants, and nearby developers. The police have stepped up patrols around the area to ensure the safety of residents. No person has been arrested so far.

- There were 175 cases of traffic related complaints received in September.

- There are seven cases of wanted person

locate in September. The police are looking for these individuals for several reasons including unpaid parking tickets and unpaid jaywalking fines.

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

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cover story

Walk on the wild side Eric Ho treks the trails of Sai Kung to find the 12 best hikes

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hike to it

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s temperatures start to cool, there’s no better time to get out and explore Sai Kung’s vast array of hiking trails. To celebrate our love for Sai Kung and the nature which surrounds it, we’ve created the most comprehensive local hiking guide - The Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Hiking Guide. We walked hundreds of kilometres spanning every trail in the area to bring you the best 12 hikes of Sai Kung. Inside you’ll find hikes at all levels of difficulty, including

pushchair-friendly walks to trails over mountainous terrain which will excite even the most seasoned hikers.

With the help of hiking experts, life-long local residents, WWF-Hong Kong and many more; we were able to bring the hikes to life through beautiful photography, Sai Kung history, local legends and a guide to some of the wildlife you may encounter along the way. Here’s a sneak peak at one of the trails in The Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Hiking Guide…

SAIKUNG.COM | 25

cover story

Three Fathoms Cove Take minibus 7 from Sai Kung town and alight at Pak Sha O Youth Hostel, which was opened in 1985 in an abandoned village school. The old classrooms, which have been transformed into a kitchen, common room and dormitory blocks, make a good base from which to explore the country park.

From the hostel, walk 100 metres along Hoi Ha Road until you reach a signposted path to Pak Sha O. It’s a short walk to Pak Sha O, a restored Hakka village that feels lost in time. There are no longer any Hakka villagers living here; they left when the construction of the High Island Reservoir cut off the village’s water supply, ending its farming activities.

The abandoned village seemed destined to crumble into disrepair, like so many others in Hong Kong’s rural areas, but its idyllic charms caught the eye of a group of expats who spent years renovating the traditional buildings and restoring the ancestral hall.

During the first section of the hike, the trail gradually rises in altitude. You need to be aware of two forks in the road. The first comes as you approach Nam Shan Tung: take the path towards Lai Chi Chong. At the second fork, take the path to Sham Chung.

START

END

Three Fathoms Cove “The tranquil side of Sai Kung” Distance | 12.1 km Duration | 4.5 hours Difficulty | Highlights Abandoned village, picnic spot, mangroves and Astronomical Observatory Food options Village stores in Sham Chung Age Suitable for children aged 6 and up Extra gear None

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Scan the code to see the trail on Google Maps Map keys Start

Toilet

Finish

Photo spot

Direction of the trail

Food options

hike to it At this point the hike becomes more challenging as the concrete paths are replaced by dirt trails that meander around large boulders, squeeze through a narrow gully and over streams. Cross a small valley leading up towards She Shek Au. Take care in wet conditions as the trail and rocks can be slippery and there is a possibility of flash floods near the streams.

The going becomes easier on the descent into Sham Chung, passing eerie abandoned houses. Unlike Pak Sha O, Sham Chung village did not attract any rescuers when its inhabitants left to seek better opportunities elsewhere, and many of the buildings are being reclaimed by nature.

Up ahead the greenery opens up, revealing a large expanse of grassland and a small lake surrounded by wooded hills. On warmer days, groups of families and friends dot the grass, and kids ride bikes or kick balls in what must be one of the finest picnic spots in Hong Kong.

You don’t have to bring your own food.

A couple of houses near the lake operate as simple restaurants on weekends and holidays, when villagers return to sell drinks and noodles to hikers. Don’t expect any bargains, however: a bottle of Coke set us back $26.

Basic restaurants in Shan Chung

SAIKUNG.COM | 27

cover story

Sham Chung, a great place to take the kids

Mind your step whilst crossing the streams

Sham Chung may be beautiful, but it is a far cry from its natural state. When the village was thriving, much of the land was converted to paddy fields. Once the villagers left, the forgotten fields transformed into a wetland teeming with wildlife, including rare animals like the brown fish owl and the Hong Kong paradise fish. But in 1999, developers earmarked the area for a golf course, draining the wetland and replacing it with grass, and destroying the thriving ecosystem in the process. The project was never approved, and Hong Kong lost one of its most important ecological sites for naught.

Cross the meadow and follow the concrete

Fathoms Cove, skirting the rocky foreshore, mangroves and an area of abandoned farmland. Where the path runs next to the mangrove, look for crabs scurrying between the roots and jittery mudskippers keeping their eyes above water.

At Yung Shue O village, the path turns into a single-track road. At the T-junction, turn right past the public toilet and continue along a catchwater, but take care as there are no pavements and, although the road is quiet, there are occasional cars. It’s a flat, shady walk, passing barbecue sites with fabulous views of the bay and its fish farms – particularly photogenic at golden hour as the

Reaviling a large expanse of grassland and a small lake surrounded by wooded hills path towards the pier, where a ferry calls twice a day on its way to Ma Liu Shui or Wong Shek Pier. Hop aboard if you’ve had enough, but the best is yet to come.

The next section follows the coast of Three

Lush mangroves with the silhouette of Ma On Shan in the back

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hike to it 60 seconds with Ally van de Pol Dragon Fitness and Coaching What do you take on a hike?

I bring plenty of water, more than I think is needed. If you plan to hike for over an hour and it’s likely to be hot add some electrolyte this will prevent cramping and give you a little sugar boost, I really like Tailwind.

Snacks are more of a personal choice but you need sugar to sustain you, my favourites are dried mango trail mix and nuts. Bananas are also great but i find they are too easily bruised in transit.

Other things everyone should take include a phone in case of emergencies, good trail shoes with great grip and a torch in case you get lost and it gets dark. Also remember to bring a buddy - especially if you haven’t hiked a particular trail before. There are a number of trails I would happily run on my own but it can still be risky. You may get lost and two heads is always better than one.

Things you shouldn’t do on a hike?

Don’t go out in the heat of the day. Even in autumn we can get scorching days.

Heatstroke, half way up a mountain can hit very quickly and can be life threatening.

If you’re hungover or feeling a bit sick then don’t go hiking - I’ve done both of these and suffered the consequences. The former can be especially dangerous as you are already dehydrated. Also, don’t litter and take your rubbish home and don’t go where signs tell you not to.

climbers, walking lunges etc. Stretching afterwards is just as important - do these as soon as possible when you finish, focus on hamstrings, calves, quads and hips.

How can I develop better hiking abilities?

If your legs feel achy or sore after a hike, try alternating hot and cold blasts on your legs in the shower for 10 minutes. For best results, do this as soon as soon as possible after hiking.

Hike frequently to develop your stamina and strength but also consider strength training to develop your legs and core stability. Losing balance is easily done on trails, which could result in falls or hanging off or down a steep slope. My favourite exercises include lunges, squats and the Palloff Press.

Do you warm up before a hike?

I perform a bunch of mobility drills as a warm up - no static stretches before you start, you want to get the muscles warm and the nervous system firing. Think jumping jacks, mountain

How should I deal with soreness after a hike?

Any tips for beginners?

A hike should be fun, enjoy it, say hello to people and if you’re really not enjoying it, stop and look around you, there’s bound to be a glorious view. Hiking can be hard work, but the up will turn into a down before you know it. Whatever your motivation is, hiking in Hong Kong is one of the best (and cheapest) ways to spend a day or an afternoon.

SAIKUNG.COM | 29

cover story Craving more awesome hikes?

Discover all 12 hikes and the history of Sai Kung with our Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Hiking Guide.

Order your copy at hongkongliving.com/ shop with the promo code DISCOUNT10 to enjoy 10 per cent off your purchase. Limited time only.

10%

Gentle but scenic slopes along the trail

sun dips behind Ma On Shan and the water turns amber – and up a final steep incline to Sai Sha Road.

From here, you can catch bus 99 or 299X to Sai Kung Pier, or make a detour to see Hong Kong’s only ancient astronomical observatory. To find the old stone tower, turn right towards the car park, cross the road and walk up the steps under a wooden gateway marked Shui Long Wo. As well as the tower there are picnic tables, old stone terraces and

OFF

a moon gate. This miniature replica of the Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory (built during the Yuan dynasty in eastern Dengfeng County, Henan), provides a gorgeous view back over Three Fathoms Cove.

How to get there • From Sai Kung Pier, take minibus 7 to the country park, alighting at Pak Sha O Youth Hostel, on Hoi Ha Road, a few stops before the end of the route

• Cars may not enter the country park without a permit, so if you’re planning to drive it is simpler to take a 25 minute taxi ride from Sai Kung town.

60 seconds with David Gething - Winner of 7 Marathons 7 Continents in 7 Days Challenge, Marathon World Record Holder, and local vet What are you favourite trails?

Being a Clearwater Bay native, I like trails in that area. My favourite is probably High Junk Peak which is just behind where we live. It’s a hard trail to run because there’s 10 metres of flat trail and the rest is all climbing up and down stairs, but it is a beautiful trail.

Being a Hong Kong person you’ve got to like MacLehose, it’s wonderful but very backbreaking at times. Stage 2 is another one of my favourites especially going around Tai Long Wan.

Do you have any advice for hikers?

Go fairly prepared. I see people not wearing appropriate shoes and not carrying enough water. Please dress appropriately and maybe carry a snack. Make sure you know

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where you are starting, going and ending. Start off small and build up stamina as you go along.

Carry some kind of map - even a map on your phone.

Where do you find motivation?

I find that the company of friends is the best thing. I take my buddies. I take my children.

I have many different kinds of hikes. I have some intense hikes, some good for running and then there are the more family-friendly mellow hikes for the kids - they are all really rewarding in quite different ways. I think hiking is a great way to connect and to spend time with people.

I went out this morning for a trail run and if I knew a friend wasn’t waiting for me to come and see him I would probably have slept in but I knew he was there so I went.

What is Hong Kong’s best kept hiking secret?

I think the secret that everybody knows but nobody acknowledges is that Hong Kong is an amazing place for hiking. You have friends coming in from out of town and they think Hong Kong is just skyscrapers and traffic. But percentage wise we have more natural parks here than in most countries in the world. I take friends out to a hike and they are just stunned to see how rugged and beautiful it is. I think a lot of Hong Kong people live in suburbia and don’t get to see this. The beauty of hiking is that you don’t need an expensive bike to do it, you don’t need a permit or anything you can just go out there and do it and it’s open to everybody.

SAIKUNG.COM | 31

education

Sign of the times

Rebecca Simpson finds out how one Hong Kong school is facing up to the education revolution

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here’s been a lot of talk about ‘innovation’ in education in recent years. Educators across the globe are discussing the changes required to deliver a modern education and leading schools are evolving their offerings to meet these revised needs.

These changes are often framed to us as technology-driven—more and more we hear about innovation labs, maker studios or technology centres in schools. These are impressive, modern additions to education facilities that excite students and parents alike.

It’s fair to say that when I say ‘innovation’, you are likely to think ‘technology’. It’s a natural association when much of the innovation in our world is driven by technology. We’re constantly learning about the latest and greatest tech-driven changes like automation, robotics and so forth.

However, it’s important to distinguish that innovation and technology are not

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interchangeable terms, especially when it comes to education. The leadership team at the Canadian International School (CDNIS) is well versed in innovation and technology, having delivered a tangible history of innovation since the school’s inception in the early 1990s.

CDNIS was indeed the first Apple Distinguished School in the region, and it’s been a proud tech-savvy community for many years, with established one-to-one iPad and laptop programmes. This forward-thinking approach to technology is well supported by a resource called One Door, a service centre located at the school that helps students and parents manage the technologies embedded into school life.

That support itself is innovative, but more about that later.

Project Innovate Let’s remember, innovation isn’t just about technology. Project Innovate, launched for the

2017-2018 school year, is a framework that the school refers to as ‘future-ready learning’.

Project Innovate works to help students develop the skills, mindsets and dispositions required to be successful in our ever-changing world.

“It’s about providing students with the opportunities they need to be future–ready,” says Helen Kelly, CDNIS Lower School principal.

Kelly is a leading educator at CDNIS and one of the leadership team that has trained in Design Thinking and used Design Thinking principles to craft this latest iteration in the school’s educational approach.

open day

Future-ready learning encompasses three pillars. Pillar One is the foundation skills of literacy, numeracy, science, information and communication technology and civic and cultural literacy.

Next, the school adds Pillar Two, the 21st Century competencies of collaboration, communication, creativity and critical thinking.

Finally, Pillar Three covers character building, which works to help students develop resilience, initiative, curiosity, empathy, leadership and adaptability.

Creating leaders At its heart, Project Innovate is about creating a new generation of leaders. As Kelly explains, “the World Economic Forum is referring to what it calls the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where there is going to be change beyond what we can possibly imagine. In order to be ready for that, our students need to have certain sets of skills, mindsets and dispositions that will enable them to cope with the world they’ll find when they leave school.”

It’s a tough brief for modern educators – prepare a generation of young minds for a future we can’t yet comprehend. David Baird, CDNIS Head of School, muses on this role. “What jobs can we foresee five years from now? We have to create students with a willingness to be flexible.

The jobs they may go into may not exist 15 years from now.”

He highlights the characteristics CDNIS is instilling into students via Project Innovate, which aim to prepare them for such a broad future,

“Adaptability, flexibility, being ready and not being afraid of challenges,” he says. He explains that students CDNIS will prepared to be “comfortable with an unstable economic environment.”

“We’re looking to develop students into innovators,” says Kelly. “That means providing these future-ready skills and providing opportunities for hands-on learning, for creativity and developing critical thinking.”

The pace of change in the future will be ever more swift than that which parents face today.

“Not only will the jobs be different in 15 years times, but the jobs won’t stay the same five or 10 years later,” says Kelly. The ramifications of such fast-paced innovations means students will need to be adaptable and be ready for a lifetime of constant learning and career-change.

Continuous education CDNIS faculty are walking the talk of continuous education and inquisitiveness. These are a group of professionals who are constantly learning and evolving their skills. The team has recently completed Design Thinking training with Stanford University’s d.school, a design centre that, among many other projects, is looking at provocative ways to evolve education. The faculty also has a group of teachers completing their Masters together. These initiatives help promote a natural culture of continuous learning and are a great inspiration to students.

The role of arts in innovation The world has gone STEM (science, technology,

engineering and maths) crazy in recent years.

We see it everywhere and for very good reason – engagement in STEM subjects, specifically exposing and supporting young girls in these subjects, is important to our world.

At CDNIS, the focus has always been on STEAM, that’s with an added ‘A’ for Arts. Tim Kaiser, CDNIS Upper School Principal explains, “there are so many great opportunities through the world of technology; but not necessarily ONLY through the world of technology; to create a new learning experience for our students and make them ready for the future.”

At CDNIS, the arts is central to future-ready learning, so much so that faculty leaders driving resources like the Makers Centre originate as arts educators rather than technology leads.

Additional training bolsters these educators with technological expertise but their passion lies firmly in the arts, and that makes for a very different approach.

Kaiser, an established CDNIS teacher, explains that creativity has always been celebrated at the school and notes that innovation plays an important role in Project Innovate.

In the lower years, creativity thrives through programmes like the primary years dance programme, which works to foster creativity from a young age.

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education Space to innovate In our space-starved city, CDNIS is smartly repurposing existing areas on campus to reflect the new ways of learning implemented through Project Innovate.

“To carry out Project Innovate, we’ve allocated areas with all the latest innovative tools so that students can go in and be exposed and not be afraid of technology,” says Baird. “To work with it and fail at it.” The experiences of trying and failing is an important part of futureready learning.

One example is the redesign of traditional corridors to become collaboration spaces for group projects or study.The new corridor features group seating facilities designed around whiteboards mounted on the walls. In these spaces, students can work together on projects during their free time. The multi-purpose spaces along the corridor also offer modern standing desks and charging stations for technology, making them a go-to destination for students.

This year the students will also benefit from a new Maker Studio that offers multi-purpose use. This modern learning space offers an area for students of all ages and teachers of all subjects and specialities to explore and create.

The classroom has wide benches for working, an incredible array of equipment from hydroponic kits to Lego and even ovens that the smallest

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of CDNIS students will be cooking up some delicious experiments in.

Support for parents If you’re reading this and having a secret panic about your own technological capabilities, you’re not alone. For parents who sit towards the analog end of today’s tech scale, the tech support of additional devices can feel overwhelming. Let’s face it, you wouldn’t be the first parent who’s struggled to connect the Apple TV. Never fear, no family gets left behind at the CDNIS, with a facility called One Door which works in a similar way to a Genius Bar at the Apple Store. It’s a one-stop shop of technical support for the CDNIS community.

But of course the big question for all parents is how will these changes driven by Project Innovate benefit my child?

“Our students are going to be creative and creative thinkers, they’re going to be exceptional communicators in a whole range of media.

They’re going to be able to think critically and solve problems. And they’re going to be able to work together in teams,” says Kelly. “They’re going to be resilient. They’ll be used to failing and picking themselves back up again. They’re going to take initiative, they’re going to lead.

And, they’re going to be adaptable. It isn’t

School Report

Established: 1991 Class size: 18-25 Curriculum: IB and OSSD Fees 2017/2018: $103,500-$187,100 Non refundable capital levy: $32,000 Address: 36 Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen Tel: 2525 7088

enough to go to University and just be clever, you need to be interesting as well.

“The future is really exciting and we feel optimistic about it. It’s not something to fear.”

SAIKUNG.COM | 35

eating

Sharing the love

With eight restaurants under its belt, Enoteca Group is a Hong Kong success story.

Co-founder Kim Minards tells Carolynne Dear how small plates mean big business

W

hen the sun’s shining, not much makes me smile more than a sunny terrace, a nice crisp glass of something cold and a sharing plate or two. And in an area of the world fraught with excessive rents, limited outdoor space and strict al fresco licensing, restaurant group Enoteca has done well to achieve this happy hat-trick in many of its venues.

And so on a sunny morning I find myself in Sai Kung enjoying a flat white with Enoteca co-founder Kim Minards chatting about the group’s latest acquisition.

A sociology graduate, she arrived in the territory as a backpacker 22 years ago but these days co-helms the expanding restaurant group as well as being mum to children Jack, 8, and Summer, 6.

“I’m British but moved to South Africa when I was 7, so I guess I enjoyed a sort of expat upbringing. After university I packed my rucksack, hit the road, and when I ran out of money, pitched up in Hong Kong.”

Pre-handover, there were no working visa restrictions for British passport holders and Minards found herself managing Stauntons in SoHo, which was where she met her husband and business partner, Rob Cooper, who was managing the (now-defunct) restaurant Bayou.

“SoHo was different then, in that there weren’t so many high street restaurants, it was more hotel dining,” she says. “When we opened our first restaurant, Enoteca, we wanted to serve good quality wine by the glass, as there seemed to be a bit of a gap in the market. We opened with 32 different wines and sharing plates of Spanish tapas-style food and it was an instant hit.”

Despite the success, Minards admits to several sleepless nights. “Oh my god, the rent! Back then we were being charged $68,000 per month and we didn’t know if things would take off, so yes, I did lose sleep over it,” she laughs. Today, the rent has sky-rocketed to more than four times that amount, but despite this, she’s sleeping better.

“These days not much keeps me up at night. Fortunately the restaurants worked out” -

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Enoteca founders Rob Cooper and Kim Minards

Left: Minards in 1975 growing up in South Africa. Above: Minards backpacking in Pakistan

Enoteca empire

Enoteca on Elgin was swiftly followed locally

by The Phoenix, Bacau, Cicada, Iberico and an Enoteca in Quarry Bay - “But to be honest, I wouldn’t open another venue in SoHo now, I don’t think the rents are worth it. Even Sheung Wan and Sai Ying Pun don’t convince me.”

Instead, Minards attention has turned north to Sai Kung. Last summer the pair opened The Conservatory to great local acclaim, and have just announced they will be taking over local stalwart, Steamers.

“It’s a totally different market up here,” she admits. “The expat market is strong, and seems increasingly so with all the new schools opening.”

Locals themselves (they moved to Clearwater Bay five years ago) Minards says they are still viewed as ‘newbies’ by the local expat population. “There are a lot of oldtimers up here,” she says. “We really wanted to respect the fact that they have been using Steamers for many years. Originally we wanted to re-open as The Botanist, as it sort of tied in with The Conservatory vibe, but we’ve since changed our minds. We don’t want this to become a hipster gastro-pub, it’s always been a down-to-earth ‘cold beer and pub grub’ kind of place.”

It turns out the Yi Chun Street building used to be a theatre in the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s, but opened as Steamers in 2008 when the pub moved over the road from Sai Kung’s infamous ‘square’. Mid-twentieth century photos show a venue on the watersedge - subsequent reclamation now puts it around 500 metres from

We’re the newbies up here, but I do think Sai Kung was ready for somthing a little bit more grown up.

the Sai Kung waterfront. To better reflect the building’s heritage, they have decided to call their new spot The Picture House.

Minards explains they’re sticking with the British pub feel, but are completely gutting and updating the interior. On the day I met with her, the builders have just gone in. The venue comes with an outdoor licence and a terrace area, adding an all-important pub garden.

“We’re keeping the pub theme, but lightening up the interiors,” she says. “We won’t be serving tapas or sharing plates, it will be proper pub food with a roast on weekends.”

The Conservatory, rented from the owners of Big Fish two doors away and previously operating as western-style bistro Grande Restaurant, was given a clean sweep of paint before it opened last summer. Portuguese-style tiles were laid on the floor and beautiful swathes of leaf-green wallpaper fixed to the far wall. It’s light and airy and also benefits from an outdoor seating licence.

“Yes, it’s worked really well,” Minards smiles. “Again, we’re the newbies up here, but

Photograph courtesy of The University of Hong Kong Libraries

Iberico, Shelley Street

Yi Chun Street building was originally a theatre

At her first waitressing job in SoHo

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eating

Cicada, Elgin Street

I do think Sai Kung was ready for something a bit more grown up.” It does a roaring trade in Enoteca- style tapas sharing plates and platters and quality wines by the glass for lunch and dinner and the brunch trade has also been brisk.

Of course all sittings are complemented by kids menus.

“Seriously, you’d be mad in a place like Sai Kung not to offer children’s food,” she says. The Conservatory is situated on Sai Kung’s ‘square’, enclosed on two sides by casual dining venues and with a children’s play area in the far corner.

Minards also admits to recently hiring somebody to manage their social media.

“Facebook comments can be harsh,” she says.

“We’ve seen neighbouring venues really suffer from negative comments on local groups” (Sai Kung is home to the notorious, no-holds-barred, Sai Kung Dirty Laundry Facebook group) “frustratingly these experiences are often not

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followed up with diners actually approaching the management. If they did, we could do something to rectify the problem. When we first opened The Conservatory, we were fastidious about having either myself or Rob around all of the time to efficiently mop up any problems and receive customer feedback. We couldn’t afford to let the ball drop for a minute.”

Locals are faithful in their followings, as Minards has noted. Jaspas has been operating for over 20 years in the square and is seen as something of a benchmark.

“It can be intimidating, but I think we’ve proved ourselves with The Conservatory.

“We’ve also been lucky in that we’ve retained a lot of our staff over the years, which helps us with a continuous, quality service,” Minards continues. “The children have grown up with them. When Jack was tiny he used to come to work with me in SoHo all the time, and the girls used to whisk him out for lunch and dinner. I really enjoy staff training. In the old days it was all British backpackers, but now we hire more Filipinos, Nepalese and Chinese.

I also work closely with the chefs. Do I have a favourite venue? I think The Conservatory, I love the decor, although I tend to move around a lot. Iberico recently opened in Yuen Long and sometimes I go up there for a buffet lunch. I also like the Asian vibe at Cicada - when we were forced to close a few years ago (the building on Cochrane Street was being renovated into apartments) locals asked us to bring it back, so we re-opened on Elgin Street. It’s funny, it turned

out it was a real favourite locally, but people hadn’t made the connection that we also owned other venues.”

It seems Hong Kongers are a loyal lot.

Here’s hoping The Picture House will make the grade.

Goodbye Steamers, hello Enoteca Group Sai Kung’s newest eatery opens on October 1

nibbles

NIBBLES

S2 Waterfront to Momentai S2 Waterfront makes way for a new bar establishment, Momentai. “The name Momentai was originally just as a joke, a play on the cantonese words for ‘no problem’.

But the more we said it, the more we liked it” said Niko Smirnoff, one of three owners behind the new bar. “All three of us are Sai Kung residents and we chose this location for the view and its 4,000 square feet space”.

Momentai is looking to spark the local music scene alive with the return of Sai Kung Live and performances from Jazz groups. Momentai’s menu consists of Western classics with several international dishes, the bar will serve sixteen

predominantly locally made beers, such as Lion Rock, Kowloon Bay, Moonzen, Mak’s Brewery and English Bitter. Renovations began on September 1 with a soft opening from September 21. Momentai will have their grand opening on October 6 and 7, with the former open to the public. For more information visit facebook.com/momentaila

Hyatt Regency Sha Tin going pink The Patisserie at Hyatt Regency Sha Tin is offering a selection of pink desserts for a limited time only. Strawberry mascarpone cheesecake, Rose dark chocolate mousse cake and more ($45 per piece) will be on sale October through November. The desserts are presented as part of the “Pink Desserts” event organised by the Hong Kong Hereditary Breast Cancer Family Registry. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the registry.

Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin. 3723 1234

Second Tsuta enters Hong Kong Michelin-starred Tsuta are riding on the success of its first Hong Kong store and have opened their second ramen eatery in Harbour City. The interior inherits the Japanese flagship’s simple and refined style - with wooden, minimalistic yet homey feel. Slightly larger than the Causeway Bay location, the new eatery will have 21 bar stools surrounding the kitchen area and another 10 stools looking outside. In celebration of the opening, a new Miso Soba will be exclusively available at the new Tsuta - made using 100 per cent soybean from the Tokushima Prefecture in Shikoku, Japan. The miso is stored in traditional oak barrels to ferment for up to two and a half years. For a limited time, 30 Tsuta umbrellas will be given out every day for customers with a minimum spend of $300.

Open 11am-11pm. Shop G111, Gateway, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, 3188 2748.

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travel

Home away from home So you’re thinking about buying a property overseas, but where to begin? Shreena Patel asks the expats and the experts

Kristine and her kids in Penang, earlier this year

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The development also houses shared facilities, including an infinity pool and gym

house and ho(me)

An aerial view of the Penang development in which the Nudds have purchased their apartment

The Nudds Three years ago, while on holiday at the Shangri-La in Batu Ferringhi, Penang, Kristine and Anthony Nudds went out for a stroll and came back with an apartment.

“The development was being marketed quite heavily, so we decided to check out the show apartment as a matter of curiosity more than anything,” says Kristine, who works in PR/marketing (her husband Anthony works in finance). The couple, who moved from London to Hong Kong seven years ago, live in Sai Kung with their three children.

They bought the three-bedroom apartment in Penang with beach views off-plan for $2.5million. After putting down an initial deposit, they are paying the rest in chunks, based on a completed stages list. It’s due to be finished next year.

While prime central London’s property market has slowed in recent years, there are a number of undervalued locations in Outer London

“In all honesty, it was a complete impulse purchase. It is the first time we have bought off-plan. The design and location of the property appealed to us, and property is a

good investment, especially as there is a lot of scope for new development in this location”— she continues—“The developers were able to provide necessary legal support and advice and the overall buying process has been very smooth.”

In the short term, the Nudds plan to use the apartment for holidays and for sharing with friends, and potentially to earn income as a holiday let. Looking further ahead, they may use it for longer periods following retirement.

“Who knows?”, says Kristine. “It’s just great to have options as our children grow up. It’s also exciting to have the opportunity to enjoy a new culture and learn more about the vibrant community in Penang.”

The purchase has also enabled the Nudds to apply for a MM2H visa (Malaysia, My Second

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travel Top 5 tips for buying abroad, by Adler Ho 1. Have your finances ready and a discussion with your financial advisor/ accountant/bank prior to starting your search 2. Think about your objectives – are you looking to purely invest or is this a lifestyle decision?

3. Be realistic about your budget and property requirements – e.g. do you need four bedrooms or will your children soon be moving out?

4. Do your due diligence. There are many legal and tax considerations involved as well as risks to take into account (e.g. development risk if you are buying offplan). Talk to a professional and engage them once you have trust in their ability to understand your requirements and are sure that they will act in your best interest 5. Be as specific as you can about your requirements. It may feel like you’re being fussy but this is a big purchase and it will help to narrow the search.

The UK holiday cottage business is competitive

Home) which would allow them and their children to live—but not work—in Malaysia.

“In times of uncertainty it is comforting to know that we now have an Asia back up plan”, says Kristine.

The experts In fact, Hong Kong residents appear to be increasingly investing in property abroad, as Cheuk Wong, Senior Consultant at international property investment firm IP Global, explains.

“As part of a wider global survey, we asked over 1,000 Hong Kong adults (18+) which assets they plan to invest in over the next 12 months. 13 per cent picked property abroad— twice the amount who were asked the same question in 2016. It’s also the highest of any of the countries surveyed, which included the UK, Singapore, the UAE and China.”

Wong attributes the reasons for the jump to various factors, from uncertainty surrounding the domestic Hong Kong market, to the impact of Brexit on the pound, which has created buying opportunities in the UK for USD-pegged investors.

“A growing population, supply-side shortages and a resilient local economy all combine to paint a picture of long-term stability for the UK as a whole.”

“While prime central London’s property market has slowed in recent years, there are a number of undervalued locations in Outer London, like Croydon, Sutton and Woolwich.

This is thanks, in part, to the upcoming arrival

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of Crossrail—a new rail link designed to make connections between the heart of London and outlying areas easier and quicker. Woolwich is a notable ‘Crossrail winner’; the borough is expected to see value growth of 39 per cent from 2016 to 2020. These undervalued areas offer an attractive entry price point compared to the centre. For example, a one-bed flat in Woolwich costs £600-700 per sq. ft. compared to a central London average of £900.”

IP Global is also looking closely at areas that are undergoing transformation, including The Royal Docks in London’s East End, which is benefiting from historic investment from China as well as a new Crossrail station opening later this year. According to Wong, properties around Custom House the Crossrail station should see house price growth of 30 per cent and rental growth of 20 per cent between 2016 and 2020.

The UK regional cities of Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool are also a core focus of IP Global’s strategy, driven by greater affordability and steady economic growth.

“Manchester and Liverpool are benefitting from the UK Government’s Northern Powerhouse strategy, which will encourage historic levels of investment across the North of England,” says Wong.

Of course, it’s not just the UK property market that’s drawing attention. When those in the aforementioned survey were asked which countries were most attractive as investment destinations, 30 per cent picked Japan, 21 per cent chose the UK and Australia, and 14 per

Adler Ho Sydney-based property consultant and passionate sailor Ho bought his first property at 19 and had bought 24 more by the time he was 30. He has over a decade of experience as an individual investor and consultant to property developers and builders. Ho’s company offers Buyers Agency services for those purchasing property in Sydney and he makes regular trips to Hong Kong to service expat clients. Find out more at adlerho.com/services

cent opted for Canada. In Europe, Wong says that Berlin has become a profitable investment opportunity due in large part to a 40 per cent housing deficit and a population that is expected to grow by 400,000 by 2030. “As a city, its diversification into digital, technology and service-based sectors has led to the creation of 250,000 jobs in the last decade,” he explains.

Other markets the company is exploring include central European cities such as Vienna, Hamburg, Frankfurt and Düsseldorf. “In the US, we have also been investing in undervalued Chicago for many years,” says Wong.

Beyond market trends, it’s important to

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travel consider why you’re buying and how the property will fit into your life, in terms of finance, time, effort and lifestyle. Is it just for holidays or is it somewhere to retire? Does it offer the possibility of a second passport? Is it purely an investment?

Sydney based property consultant Adler Ho runs a buyers agency service for those purchasing properties in Sydney. “Many of our clients are Australians who are living abroad, but plan to return to Australia,” he says. “They can buy in today’s market and don’t want to be priced out when they are ready to return. In the meantime, they may be able to take advantage of tax depreciation and tax deduction benefits while renting the property out.”

On the other side of the world, Nick House has 25 years experience in the UK holiday letting market and runs his own consultancy.

“The vast majority of my clients are seeking a balance between lifestyle considerations and a good return on their investment,” he says. “This is in marked contrast to the motivation of a buyto-let investor who tends to be driven by rental yield maximisation alone.”

“My clients typically fit three profiles: the weekenders (families with young children living in London and seeking a bolt hole in the country for weekends and school holidays); the retirement business owners (UK entrepreneurs who are approaching retirement and want to sell their business and invest the proceeds); and the British expats.”

“Typically, the expats have been living and working in the Far East for the past few years.

Three- to four-bed cottages in the UK can fetch up to £1million in desirable areas like the Cotswolds

Many return to the UK at least once a year to visit family and friends, and/or to settle their children into school or university. They may already have a house in the UK but it is already let to long-term tenants. Having another home would make life so much easier, avoiding the hassle of dashing round the country to see everyone or trawling the internet to find a suitable property to rent in advance of each trip.

More often than not, they are looking to buy a house to which they can retire in five to 10 years time.”

The Rutherfords Two people who have lately been considering moving back to the UK and entering the holiday

cottage business are British expats Andrew Rutherford, founding partner of global branding agency Yang Rutherford, and his wife Maeve.

The couple—both from Islington, London— have lived in Hong Kong since 1995, but always with the intention of one day returning to the UK. Their son attends a school in Somerset while their two younger daughters live with them in Discovery Bay. “It’s great to give them a bit of national identity,” says Andrew. “My son now loves all things English, although it’s funny—he might be at school in England but a significant number of his classmates are from Hong Kong and mainland China.”

If the family moves,

Do’s and don’ts in buying a second home to holiday let, by Nick House 1. Have realistic expectations on the returns. On first impression the gross rents charged will seem attractive but the margin reduces significantly after covering the high operating costs of letting including agency fees, cleaning, utility bills, fire logs, insurance, business rates and gardening. If your goal is to generate a net yield in excess of 5%, I recommend that you look elsewhere to invest your money.

2. Be prepared to spend on quality. If it is within your budget, I would urge you to buy a detached period property with a private garden and view. Buy decent furnishings and do not ship in Granny’s cast offs from a dusty attic. The holiday rental market is extremely competitive and guests are becoming increasingly discerning on style and comfort.

The incremental costs you will incur from buying towards the top of the range will be easily recouped from the higher rents and occupancy you can command.

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3. Put your personal preferences aside.

Satisfying the needs of the paying customer should be an overriding objective. It will be your home but it should also be treated as a commercial asset which has to earn its keep. You may have strong emotional ties to a particular area, but if it is not a well known tourist destination you will struggle to achieve a high occupancy.

4. Be flexible on releasing availability. Do not reserve all the prime dates for yourself. Resist placing too many restrictions on bookings, e.g. accept short breaks and dogs.

5. Set competitive rents. Charging high rents can earn a healthy profit margin but a poor net income if beds are empty for long periods because your property is too pricey relative to the local competition.

Nick House The aptly named House has 25 years experience of letting and managing luxury holiday property throughout the UK, which includes running two rental agencies. In 2008, he founded independent consultancy House Nouse, through which he advises clients on every aspect of buying, letting and managing holiday property.

“The benefits or using an agent like House Nouse are five-fold,” says House. “Access to market knowledge; assistance with financial planning; saved time; saved money; and good management after purchase.”

House lives near Broadway in the Cotswolds, England, with his wife Julia and their black Labrador puppy Monty.

For an initial, no obligation chat about your plans, email nick@housenouse.co.uk, housenouse.co.uk

house and ho(me)

Michael and Emma Linnitt at their French farmhouse

Andrew would maintain a presence in Hong Kong because of his business. “I would spend no more than 90 days in the UK each year,” he says. “Any higher and you have to pay UK taxes.”

But moving back to a country after 22 years is an interesting challenge. The couple’s connection to London is not what it once was.

Many of their old friends have moved out of the city, where it seems rentals returns are tighter and growth has slowed compared to the outer regions. But the Rutherfords are not ready to retire either. They maintain various property interests—including a hotel in Sri Lanka—and have been considering buying a few cottages in the UK as a short-term holiday let business.

“We’re shorter term folk at heart and the returns seemed to be higher than buying and renting out on long-term leases,” says Andrew.

The Rutherfords considered Cheltenham as a place to live, and the nearby Cotswolds as a place to buy the cottages. “It’s very popular with the London set and a year-round holiday spot. I was there in January and there were a lot of tourists, particularly from China and Japan,” explains Andrew.

However, further research has led them to rethink their plans.

“The current exchange rate is attractive but there are two offsetting factors,” says Andrew.

SAIKUNG.COM | 45

travel Firstly, the returns are not all that compelling— net returns look to be between three to five per cent. Do we want to be running all these cottages when the returns are not that much higher? Secondly, there’s a big question over UK property prices pre-Brexit—will they hold?”

“You can pay anything from £300,000 for a one/two bed cottage to just shy of £1 million for a three/four bed cottage in the UK—prices leap up in desirable areas like the Cotswolds.

And if you’re getting into the holiday business, you’d better choose somewhere desirable. On top of that, there are additional expenses: the marketing agency, someone to look after it and clean it, wear and tear... So you’ve got to be passionate about it. It’s also a competitive industry, so you need to offer the market either something different or something better.”

As for other options, Andrew points to some of their friends who maintain pied-à-terres in London or cottages near the schools their children attend. The properties aren’t let, but kept empty for half-terms and school holidays.

“You could easily spend hundreds of pounds a night in the UK on a hotel or B&B, so if you’re using the place for three half-terms a year, it might make sense. We’re still thinking. We might do a mixture of long-term lets and dip our toes into the cottage business.”

There’s a big question over UK property prices pre-Brexit: will they hold?

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Michael and Emma Linnitt at their French farmhouse

The Linnitts Even once you’ve decided what you want, finding it isn’t easy. If there’s anything that the numerous property shows of the 2000s taught us, it’s a) to go neutral, and b) that you usually have to compromise on one of budget, location or space. But those who are willing to renovate can widen their net.

British expats Emma and Michael Linnitt chose to purchase and renovate a house in France in the hope of making summer holidays less stressful. The couple, who have been away from the UK for 16 years (13 in Hong Kong and three in Jakarta before that), have three children, the eldest of whom is in the UK studying. Their two younger children attend Sha Tin College.

“Ours is the typical story of two people who leave on an adventure for a couple of years and are still away,” says Emma.

“When our parents retired they all moved away from the local area and seemed to scatter like feathers across the UK. We found that holidaying in the summer was stressful—the driving, sleeping on floors and feeling like you were getting under each other’s feet was just too difficult. Michael refused to come with us as it was no holiday for him.”

Hoping to rescue the Linnitt family holiday, Emma hatched a plan to buy a house in France—the family had holidayed in the area before and always enjoyed their visits to a school friend of hers, who lives in Burgundy.

“Houses were cheaper than in the UK and it meant we could buy somewhere big enough for us. Visiting family and the children could each have their own room and feel like it was a home away from home,” she says.

After searching online, Emma found a fivebedroom farmhouse, complete with garden,

field, two barns and a pigsty. The couple got their friends to view it before taking the plunge and purchasing the property in 2007 for €230,000 (around £150,000 at the time), excluding legal fees. Emma’s friend, Rachel, became the couple’s power of attorney and did all the paperwork.

“The legal process was long winded but it all worked out,” Emma explains. “We hadn’t seen it in person until we arrived in the summer.

I bought all the furniture online, we went to IKEA on route from the airport to buy our bedding.

Our first summer was spent decorating—each relative was handed a pot of paint, a brush and expected to decorate the room they slept in!

In return we fed them and gave them wine. It worked!”

The couple are slowly renovating each room as they have spare cash—they added a heated swimming pool, a new kitchen and new bathrooms to the property this year. On retirement, they plan to spend half their time in the UK and half in France. “We absolutely love it! We have spent a lot of money making into a home—the heated swimming pool was the best decision ever.”

The Linnitts recently registered the house with AirBNB and had three enquiries within as many hours, although they say it is very much their home first, and a rental property second.

“If we get a few [rentals] that’s a bonus”—says Emma—“but we won’t reduce the price.”

“It’s been hard work, with some dodgy builders and a few hurdles along the way, but it’s been worth it. I’ve had moments when I thought we shouldn’t have spent the money but now we know it’s a longer term lifestyle choice, it’s the right thing for our family. It’s made summer holidays more bearable and pleasurable.”

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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

The goddess Chang’e resides on the moon, alone save for a rabbit as a companion. Another legend has it that the woodcutter Wu Gang lives up there, chopping down an osmanthus tree that grows back as soon as it’s toppled. It must be a lonely life for them both: perhaps a moonlit night is the perfect time for a touch of matchmaking?

The Yuen Tsuen Ancient Trail is, as the name suggests, ancient. It was originally the only path which linked Yuen Long to Tsuen Wan, and farmers would wearily trudge along it every day, taking their goods to market. These days it’s a pleasant hike with stunning views of the Tsing Ma Bridge. The next time you’re hiking it, think about the thousands of footsteps taken on this path before you—and be glad you’re not carrying a basketful of vegetables.

Li Bai was the greatest Tang Dynasty poet, and his “Quiet Night Thought” is his best-known work. It’s a rumination on seeing the moon from his bed, and realizing that same light is shining on his hometown, far away. But where Li Bai feels homesickness, I’m heartened that the same light shines on us all: it brings us together, Aries. Share some moonlight with friends this month.

For 56 years from 1939, the RMS Queen Elizabeth was the largest ocean liner in the world, plying her trade between the UK and the USA. After retiring from service she ended up in Hong Kong harbour, where her tycoon owner intended to turn her into a floating university. But in 1972, she caught fire under mysterious circumstances and was sunk. An ignominious end, Taurus – but a timely reminder that sometimes things don’t turn out great, and that’s OK.

LEO Jul 23 – Aug 22

VIRGO Aug 23 – Sep 23

LIBRA Sep 24 – Oct 23

SCORPIO Oct 24 – Nov 22

“Add oil!” This Cantonese saying is a phrase of encouragement, exhorting someone to step on the gas, to put in a little extra dose of effort. You’ll hear it all over town, but I want to say it to you, Leo. What do you need an extra boost with? Your career, friendships, love life?

Whatever it is, Leo – add oil!

Did you know an indoor roller coaster runs around the top floor of Sham Shui Po’s Dragon Centre? Sadly, it’s been out of use since the mid-2000s, and now the rails which snake across the central atrium lie untravelled. What a shame! Still, I love the idea.

Find an aspect of your life that needs a roller coaster ride, and let yourself drop into it.

There’s a legend behind the salted egg yolk at the centre of a mooncake. It’s said that Ming revolutionaries hid messages inside mooncakes, in order to coordinate a revolt against the Mongol rulers. Once the message was received, the cake could be eaten to disguise the means of delivery. A devious and delicious plan—and a reminder that even the most unassuming of packages can contain so much more.

Autumn approaches, and the leaves on the trees begin shifting hues, from green to golden oranges and vivid yellows. Well, not in Hong Kong. Most trees here are evergreen, and their foliage doesn’t change colour. Be like the evergreen, Aries: remember that you don’t always have to change to suit the seasons. Sometimes, following your own path is the best course.

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

48 | SAIKUNG.COM

GEMINI May 22 – Jun 21

CANCER Jun 22 – Jul 22

The Sea Ranch was a luxurious development on Lantau island constructed in the 1970s. Originally billed as a luxury resort for wealthy Hongkongers, nonexistent land links and lack of interest killed off the development. But it never went anywhere, and nowadays an independentminded population still lives in this isolated slice of paradise.

Sometimes an idea just needs to find its audience, Gemini: just ask The Sea Ranch.

During the Chung Yeung festival, Hongkongers gather to fly kites. They’re said to be able to carry your bad luck up, up and away. You don’t have to go and buy a kite just for the festival, Cancer. But how about this: Send a mental kite up into the heavens, and let it float your anxiety and your worries away.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 – Dec 21

CAPRICORN Dec 22 – Jan 20

The sweltering summer is finally receding, and hiking season is here at last! I wish you good luck on the trails, Sagittarius. Because at some point, you will be overtaken by a troupe of grannies with thighs of steel. Do not try to match pace. Do not try to overtake them back. Accept that sometimes, you won’t be able to beat everyone—and that’s OK.

One of my favourite places in all of Hong Kong is Tsui Wah restaurant on Wellington Street. Why? Because this 24-hour, three-floor cha chaan teng contains multitudes. By day it’s a place for office drones to grab a quick breakfast or lunch. In the evenings teens and shoppers get dinner.

And in the small hours, the clubbers of Lan Kwai Fong come for much-needed sustenance. It’s flexible, adaptable, and so it’s cherished. Is there a Tsui Wah in you, Capricorn?

SAIKUNG.COM | 49

The latest green issues affecting our city.

50 | SAIKUNG.COM

A Citizens Task Force is to be established in response to concerns over the newly appointed Task Force on Land Supply

W

hen the Chief Executive formed the Task Force on Land Supply last month she forgot the promise in her manifesto to “draw on the collective wisdom of society...to find a solution that benefits the community as a whole”, to “establish a dedicated task force representing various sectors” and to “strive to engage the public to reach a consensus on land supply.”

What we now have is a narrow development oriented group which includes the Heung Yee Kuk and misses out many sectors. The focus of the task force is on providing land to cope with development needs. Many members have previously expressed support for developing country park areas, filling in Plover Cove reservoir and/or large scale reclamations near Lantau.

Absent are the green and urban planning concern groups. Obvious talent such as Liber Research Community, which does phenomenal research into land issues on a shoestring, is strikingly absent. The closest we get to members concerned with conservation of natural areas and ecologically sensitive habitats areas are two semi-retired geography professors. They are well versed in sustainability, but they do not represent Hong Kong’s current environmentalists and urban planning advocates, nor do they connect with the larger and younger land justice groups.

In considering nominations for the Task Force, Carrie Lam’s subordinates weeded out all those who would challenge the norm. Now, Hong Kong risks missing out on the smarter solutions which follow from true debate.

In response, a number of us have agreed to set up a Citizen Task Force on Land Use and Supply (CTF). Participants include green groups, academia, lawyers, planners and architects, including those who work for developers, and young land justice activists. The CTF will consider supply as well as drivers for demand.

Anyone travelling through the chaos of the

Photo by Wpcpey

Supply & demand

zim city

Construction at Kai Tak

New Territories must wonder about our inefficient land use. Of the 18,854 hectares which appears developed only around 6,700 hectares is well laid out towns like Sha Tin and Yuen Long. Around 1,700 hectares will be converted into new towns such as Hung Shui Kiu, Kwu Tung and Yuen Long South. That leaves 10,000 hectares of land covered with chaotic villages and brownfield areas which lacks proper roads, sewerage and other infrastructure. Land which is abused for all kinds of trades, and much of which is consumed by roads—the interchanges at Yau Ma Tei, the Cross Border Facility being built at the end of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, and the new roads under construction at Kai Tak, to name a few.

The Government Task Force will take a macro review of land supply options and launch a public engagement exercise to discuss their pros and cons.

The CTF’s objective is to ensure government transparency and fair public participation in these discussions. It wants a focus on the values and criteria for making decisions on land use and supply.

The CTF will meet regularly in public, seek funding, conduct research and make proposals. The government has the money and much of the data, so ideally it will invite the CTF to work closely or merge with its own task force. It would make for healthier debates and less division. But maybe that is too much to ask.

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

pets

Woof!

Walkies with Sai Kung resident Courtney Link

Ask a vet...

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

B

Sai Kung residents share their favourite dog walks 52 | SAIKUNG.COM

eing a dog walker in Hong Kong during the hotter months can be tiring and thirsty work. In hot and humid weather, we dog owners face a new host of challenges; how can we continue to find cool and enjoyable walks for both humans and dogs? I particularly enjoy the walk from Shek Hang Wai village to Stage 3 of the MacLehose Trail as the entire walk offers shade, streams and pools for your pup to cool down. These streams and pools seem to never dry out, even in mid-summer.

The walk starts from the parking lot at the top of Yan Yee Road and heads towards Shek Hang Wai village. After approximately 100 meters, head left towards the small village of Shek Hang Wai. The paved path soon becomes a trail which bypasses Shek Hang completely and follows a beautiful babbling brook for approximately 1.5 kilometres. The trail takes you to section 3 of the MacLehose Trail, where - if you are feeling particularly energetic - you can continue further for a more challenging hike. Otherwise, you need to head back the way you came.

The walk is shaded throughout and provides multiple opportunities for hot dogs to have a soak, splash and a romp in the refreshing pools. The path is not slippery and the mosquitos aren’t particularly bothersome. This is a favourite walk of mine because I always get a parking space in the parking lot - even on a Sunday morning - and the sound of the birds, water and insects along the trail enhances the experience. This walk is a real gem and can be enjoyed equally throughout the year, whatever the season. Be sure to watch your pooch for signs of dehydration. Dogs cool by panting, so an overheated dog will start to drool and will pant excessively. Remember to keep you and your dog hydrated as different dogs have different needs when battling the heat. Keep in mind that darker coats absorb more heat than lighter coats and puppies, overweight dogs and dogs with short noses (brachycephalic) or underlying health issues are at a higher Shek Hang Wai risk of dehydration and heatstroke. Good luck and I hope you enjoy this walk as much as we do!

“When will the howling and barking at night stop?”

If excessive barking is your problem, consider the age of your dog. Some bark for attention, fear, anxiety, caregiving, play or a reward. Older dogs may show endless repetitive barking as part of aging and medical disease, doggy Alzheimer’s.

Dogs became human companions thousands of years ago, establishing themselves as guardians of humans and their property. If you can’t find a simple answer to why your dog is barking at night, it may be best to talk to a veterinary behaviourist or your vet.

“My cat is scratching the furniture in our house. How do I stop this?”

Direct your cat away from the problem areas and towards those you want them to use. Provide perching areas for exploration, scratching and climbing, and toys that stimulate your cat’s IQ by encouraging manipulation to get a food reward. Supervise playtime and use hand clapping, water pistols, or whistles to interrupt undesirable actions.

Scratching of furniture is normal and done for claw and muscle maintenance, stretching and to keep their predatory apparatus in good order. But it can be destructive in your home and cause family arguments - why many cats are handed over to rehoming centres. In these situations please seek preventative counseling and help.

“What are some of the symptoms of tumours in dogs?

Tumours may be benign or malignant—the latter means action needs to be taken quickly to eradicate the problem and stop it spreading. Nowadays “cancer” is curable in many cases, and controllable in many more. Not all tumours are apparent by looking at the surface of the body, but where they are visible, the area with a tumour will look and feel different than before e.g. in colour, shape, a mass present.

Tumours commonly appear on the external surfaces of dogs and cats, especially in aging pets, but can be found on most animals. Internal tumours can’t be seen and are suspected because of other signs e.g. behaviour, weight change. Some tumours cause little change that can go unnoticed. As animals can’t tell us their symptoms, we need to be aware of the signs - the best solution is to consult your vet.

Got a question for Dr. Pauline?

Email editorial@hongkongliving.com

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In the garden

H

ong Kong gardeners have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of October. The month sees pleasingly warm weather, beautiful clear skies and low humidity.

Average low and high temperatures are 23 °C (73 °F) and 28 °C (82 °F). Now is the time to slip into those denim dungarees, roll up your sleeves and put in the preparatory work if you want a prosperous spring.

Make sure you have an ample amount of free space in the garden as there’s plenty of sowing to be done. Call up your British seeds supplier and have them send over the following flower seeds: French and African Marigolds, Nicotianas, Phlox Drummondii, Tagetes signata, Cineraria, Coreopsis, Larkspur, Sunflower, Dianthus Heddewigii, Daisy, Sweet Alyssum, Candytuft, Virginian Stocks, Golden feather, Sedum formosanum, Antirrhinum, Tropaeolum, Carnation, Marguerite, Lupines, Pansy and Mignonette.

Mignonette are a personal favourite with their creamy colour and sweet perfume but extra care must be taken to prevent ants from discovering the seed, as they are particularly fond of it.

In October, roses may be pruned and cuttings put in - select good, strong growths for this purpose. These may be inserted in either, equal parts of sand, leafsoil and garden soil, or in water. Finish off with a good dressing of manure.

Let us not foget the vegetables, seeds of the following may be sown in October: Mustard and Cress, Lettuce , Radish Beet, Carrot, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celery and Brussel Sprout.

For potatoes, dig a piece of ground and make drills about four inches deep, and place the potatoes one foot apart, put in good quality of old manure before covering with soil. Water the ground if necessary.

Potatoes obtainable from the market will prove satisfactory for planting purposes.

If the tubers are large, they may be cut into several pieces, so long as each piece has an ‘eye’ to it. They must be earthed up as soon as the growths are sufficiently developed for the purpose. The potatoes will be ready for digging at Christmas.

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

Paraphrased from his seminal 1906 work Gardening for Hong Kong.

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SAIKUNG.COM | 55

Selective hearing

stephen says...

Sai Kung musings

by Stephen Vines 56 | SAIKUNG.COM

A

re they listening to residents Hiram’s Highway concerns?

Now that the Hiram’s Highway improvement project is underway it seems possible that the government may have listened to some local opinion but in staggering ways it is still demonstrating an astonishing degree of ignorance and blindness.

These conclusions are gleaned from the most recent report on the Highways Department’s public engagement exercise. If you have a morbid dislike of bureaucratic documents, let me save you the trouble of ploughing through by extracting the small amount of good news to be found and exercising herculean restraint in pointing out the bad news.

Starting with the positive, it appears that the department has conceded to demands for a subway crossing at Pak Sha Wan and will ensure enough space outside the Kwun Yum Temple for erection of a temporary theatre for festival performances.

The bureaucrats also claim that they will do their best to preserve roadside trees and add vegetation to slopes and retaining structures that are compatible with Sai Kung’s status as ‘the back garden of Hong Kong’.

There is also a pledge to maintain the current number of lanes while construction is underway.

Considering that most of the Highway only has two lanes this presumably means that temporary slip roads will be used, however the bureaucrats add the phrase ‘as far as practicable’.

On the less good side of this report there is the almost certainly ludicrous claim that the average journey time from Tai Mong Tsai Road to Clear Water Bay Road will be reduced from 30 to 11 minutes. Moreover it is confidently predicted that this road widening scheme will meet not only current but also planned development of Sai Kung. The Highways Department has an almost unbroken record for getting projections of this kind wrong and so there is absolutely no reason to believe them this time around.

Aside from the Pak Sha Wan subway the Department has not conceded other demands for subways or footbridges and has ruled out the possibility of tunnel construction. The option of a cycle track has also been nixed, as have any hopes of a railway heading out to Sai Kung.

Meanwhile it looks as though the planners know little about places where there is a rail link near

Sai Kung, namely Hang Hau and Wu Kai Sha, as they appear to be unaware that these stations operate park and ride schemes, which are helpful in providing an alternative arrangement for longer journeys. They have ruled out an extension of this scheme ‘since Sai Kung does not have any mass transport system’.

Residents worried about compensation for land seized during this project are given the typical response of ‘all land resumption arrangements will comply with the relevant government procedures’.

In plain English that means shut up and we’ll let you know how we intend to screw you.

The only really positive thing that can be taken away from all this is that they are at least making an effort to engage the public in this process but they are, after all, civil servants so don’t expect too much.

After the storms When Typhoon Hato struck Hong Kong last month causing the No 10 signal to be raised, no one expected another typhoon before the week was out.

However Typhoon Pakhar, carrying a No 8 signal, not only followed rapidly but also managed to hit Sai Kung harder. This marked the first time in 51 years for two storm signals of this magnitude to be issued in such close proximity.

Many trees were uprooted or damaged and water levels rose impressively - that’s the bad news, the good news is that no one around these parts was injured and the authorities, on both occasions, did a first class job clearing up the damage. Within 24 hours, road obstructions were cleared and structures that had been hit were secured to avoid further problems. So many thanks to the people who, in some cases at risk to themselves, got out there and made sure it did not turn into tragedy of the kind that affected Macau.

The biggest miracle however, from my point of view, was that after the storms receded my telephone lines were actually working – miracles sometimes happen even when PCCW is involved.

Stephen Vines is a journalist, broadcaster and entrepreneur.

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

1 | SAIKUNG.COM