HK Family Guide Mar 2018

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Hong Kong

Family Guide

2018

4 Outdoors

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

18 Activities

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

p.10

26 Parties

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

28 Dining

The best brunches, places to take the kids and spots for special occasions.

34 Education

Your guide to Hong Kong's best schools and after-school tuition.

p.46

p.26

46 Home and living

Interiors, fashion, toys and more.

54 Health and beauty

Look good, feel good.

58 Clubs

Everything you need to know about Hong Kong's private membership clubs.

p.30

62 Marketplace

Cool stuff to buy and do.

64 Useful numbers

Essential local contacts.

p.58 Hong Kong Family Guide | 1

who’s in charge?

Editorial editorial@hongkongliving.com Editor Gemma Shaw

Contributing editor

Editor’s letter

Eric Ho

Contributing editor Carolynne Dear

Design cindy@hongkongliving.com Design manager Cindy Suen

Graphic designer Anna Schulteisz

Sales & Marketing talk@hongkongliving.com Sales director Hilda Chan

Sales & marketing executive Isamonia Chui

Sales & marketing executive Corrie Tang

Sales & marketing executive Johnny Wong

Digital cora@hongkongliving.com Digital co-ordinator Cora Chan

Accounting charles@hongkongliving.com Management trainee Charles Lau

Welcome to the 2018 edition of the Hong Kong Family Guide.

When I ask people what they love most about living in Hong Kong I get great answers: the food, the energy, the efficiency, the tax!

For me, the best thing about Hong Kong is the contrast it offers, in one day you can experience the hustle and bustle of Central, spectacular views from The Peak and relaxed beachside vibes in Repulse Bay. The Hong Kong Family Guide is packed with ideas on how to enjoy this great city. We’ve got you covered on the best beaches (p.6), junk boats (p.8), days out (p.10), and after-school activities (p.18).

Brunch is a popular pastime in Hong Kong, in our dining section (p.28) we’ve listed our favourite venues, where to take the kids, and restaurants for those important celebrations. Our Home and Living section (p.46) has great shopping and styling tips. Whether you prefer to work out (p.54), get pampered (p.56) or both, you’ll find everything you need in these pages.

Getting a school place in Hong Kong can be difficult so if you’ve got little ones, be sure to check out our

listings (p.34) to help you find the best option.

Hong Kong is an incredible place to live.

Whether you've just moved in or you've lived here for years, I hope our guide helps you to make the most of it.

Publisher Tom Hilditch tom@hongkongliving.com

Contributors

Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by

Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queens Road Central, Hong Kong

Printer

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

HONG KONG hongkongliving.com Hong Kong Family Guide 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. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Hong Kong Family Guide cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

2 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Oliver Corrin Cover artist of the Hong Kong Family Guide. Oliver is an Interior Designer and illustrator, he has been in Hong Kong since 2014 and lives in Sai Kung. He is extremely passionate about sustainability in design, he is a fitness fanatic and loves food.

Adele Brunner Adele is a regular contributor to the South China Morning Post and a past-editor at Hong Kong Living. When she’s not writing, she’s a busy mum and unpaid taxi driver to three sport-loving children.

Thanks to: Rory Mackay, Conor Spangfort, Sarah Tien

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

Hong Kong Family Guide | 3

outdoors

Hong Kong A world class city for families

4 | Hong Kong Family Guide

outdoors

Hong Kong Family Guide | 5

outdoors

Beaches

Best beaches to laze away those summer days Best beach for s diningide

Hong Kong Island Repulse Bay Located in the "wealthiest neighborhood on earth”, according to Forbes, Repulse Bay is large and glamorous. There is plenty of space for tourists, locals and occasional tour groups. The Pulse shopping centre offers an escape from the heat and a host of relaxed beachside restaurants including Limewood, Classified and Amalfitana.

For a more relaxed beach vibe, neighbouring Deep Water Bay is connected by a pleasant walkway and well worth a visit.

How to get there: Take bus 6A, 6X or 260 from Central Exchange Square. Green minibuses 40 and 52 also stop here and buses 63, 65, 73 and 973 also serve Repulse Bay.

St Stephen’s Beach This hidden gem is located on Western side of the peninsula and is consistently rated Grade 1 for its water quality (Environmental Protection Department). Slightly more secluded than Stanley Main Beach, the cove is sheltered by surrounding trees and offers pretty views. St Stephen’s Beach Watersports Centre rents out kayaks, dinghies and windsurfers.

6 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Relaxing at Repulse Bay

How to get there: Take bus 6, 6A, 6X or 260 to Stanley and walk 15 minutes along Wong Ma Kok Road, past St Stephen’s College.

Big Wave Bay Beach Hailed as the birthplace of Hong Kong’s surf scene, this beach is naturally popular with local surfers. HK Waterman (hkwaterman.com) offers surf and SUP lessons throughout the summer. Smaller than neighbouring Shek O and easily accessible by road, facilities include a cafe, showers, toilets, barbecue pits and a car park.

How to get there: Take bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan and alight at the junction of Shek O Road and Big Wave Bay Road, it’s a 10 minute walk from there. Those who are feeling more adventurous can hike to the beach via Dragon’s Back.

Shek O The dramatic scenery, sheltered location and clean, fine golden sands make Shek O a popular choice during the summer months. The beach overlooks a small island called Ng Fan Chau and the rocky cliffs offer excellent rock climbing opportunities. Enjoy delicious Mediterranean

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

Reade r's tip

Antony Dickson, Founder, Surfing Hong Kong.

outdoors

New Territories

food on the terrace at the elegant Cococabana or a very reasonably priced beer at the more relaxed Ben’s Back Beach Bar. How to get there: Take bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan or bus 309 from Central Exchange Square.

There is also a car park with over 100 spaces.

Clearwater Bay (First and Second) Beach Clearwater Bay First Beach and Clearwater Bay Second Beach are separated by a short stretch of rocky coast and interconnecting footpath.

First beach is the smaller and more secluded of the two; the sand is coarser with some shingle.

Second beach offers finer sands and the waters are also protected by shark prevention nets.

How to get there: From Diamond Hill station take bus 91 which stops at Clearwater Bay First Beach and terminates at Second Beach.

Lantau Island Pui O Famous for its stunning sunsets, this laidback beach is popular amongst Lantau locals.

Mavericks is a beach shack-style restaurant that serves simple, quality food and drinks.

How to get there: From Central Pier 6 take the ferry to Mui Wo. From here bus 1 takes around 15 minutes to reach Pui O. Alternatively, from Tung Chung MTR take the bus 3M, around 20 minutes later you will reach Pui O.

Cheung Sha Wan Located on Southern Lantau, this is one of Hong Kong’s longest beaches - stretching from Lower Cheung Sha to Upper Cheung Sha. Soak up the holiday vibes at one of the many beachside restaurants. Bathers on Lower Cheung Sha beach offers Mediterranean cuisine in an atmospheric beachside setting.

How to get there: Take the ferry from Central Pier 5 to Mui Wo followed by bus 1, 2, 3 or 4 to Cheung Sha. Alternatively, take MTR to Tung Chung and then take the New Lantau bus 11, 23 or A35 to Cheung Sha.

Tai Long Sai Wan (Sai Wan Beach)

Harry having fun

Tai Pak Wan (Discovery Bay) This easy-access beach is great for kids with a large playground at the north end. After a day out in the sunshine, head to one of the many alfresco, family-friendly restaurants at nearby D’deck. Lunch or dinner at D’deck credits you with a free ferry trip back to Central.

How to get there: Take the Discovery Bay ferry from Central Pier 3. Upon leaving the ferry terminal turn right and walk five minutes to reach the beach.

Considered one of the most beautiful places in Hong Kong, this secluded spot requires a hike through Sai Kung East Country Park to reach its powdery sand and clear waters. Sai Wan is one of four beaches that make up Tai Long Wan Bay, and is a popular surfing and overnight camping spot.

How to get there: From Sai Kung town take bus 29R from Chan Man Street (outside McDonalds) or a taxi and alight at Sai Wan Pavilion. Follow the signs towards Sai Wan, the hike takes around 40 minutes and from here you can continue onto one the of next three bays: Ham Tin Wan, Tai Wan or Tung Wan. Alternatively, buy a boat ticket back to Sai Kung from one of the restaurants (around $100 each).

Best beach for sid bbq e

Calm seas at Shek O

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outdoors

Junk boating

We’ve rounded up some of the best junk boat options for this year.

Don’t forget your shades and sunscreen Cruising back to harbour on Lazydays

Lazydays

Breakaway

Six boat options include a super deluxe 85 ft yacht. Add ons include onboard spa treatments, wakeboarding and an infant paddling pool for little ones. Well-behaved dogs are also allowed onboard. Fully catered packages from $820 per adult. Menu options include paleo, vegetarian and roast meats.

3488 1534, lazydays.com.hk

A luxury yachting company who provides worry-free breaks from the city. Onboard amenities include DeLonghi espresso machines and showers with optional add ons including a professional masseuse and a speed boat for wakeboarding or wakesurfing. Full day at sea package including breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks and drinks from $16,350 for 15 people. 6180 5059, breakawayhk.com

Aqua Luna Soak in the views aboard one of Hong Kong’s few remaining red-sail Chinese junk boats. Aqua Luna operates cruises from Victoria Harbour and Stanley. Private charters from $10,000 per hour for up to 80 people.

Departures are from the public piers at Victoria Harbour. 2116 8821, aqualuna.com.hk

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Michelangelo Michelangelo is a meticulously restored eightyfoot classic motor yacht, crafted of mahogany, teak, brass and copper. Menu options include cocktails and canapés, seated dinners and an onboard private chef. Living quarters can sleep up to nine overnight guests. 2275 3111, michelangelocruises.com

Delicious HK Delicious HK’s selection of boats cater for up to 55 people. Food is freshly prepared in their Sai Yin Pun kitchen and delivered to the pier.

All-inclusive packages from $700 per head for a seven-hour day cruise, including lunch buffet and open bar (minimum of 25 people).

Pick up is anywhere in Hong Kong Island with access to a public pier or Sai Kung for an extra fee. Call 2559 0144, delicious-hk.com

8 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Junk food

YUM!

Shamrock Based in Aberdeen, Shamrock caters for all occasions, including junks. Options include child-friendly menus, cocktails, canapes and fine dining (minimum orders apply).

For more information call 2547 8155 or visit shamrock.com.hk

Invisible Kitchen Hong Kong chef Tom Burney combines his healthy cooking philosophy with high end catering venture Invisible Kitchen.

Ingredients are sourced from across the world and options include sandwiches, pastas, salads and desserts. From $200 per person. Call 2711 5788 or visit office@invisiblekitchen.com

Monsieur Chatté Homemade French dishes cooked in a professional kitchen. Junk catering packages start at $150 per person. Basic menu includes salads, quiches, roast chicken, cheeses and fresh bread. Call 3105 8077 or visit mrchatte.com.hk

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outdoors

Family fun days Big days out for parents and kids

Take a spin around the island with Zoom RIB rides

Hire a boat

Cheung Chau

Hire a junk with friends, take a sampan ride or hop on the Star Ferry for a taste of the past and great views of the skyline. For something more hairraising, try Zoom which specialises in highspeed thrill rides and trips to “off the junk-beaten track” parts of Hong Kong. Prices begin at $500 per person for a one hour “Southside spin”. zoomribs.hk

This colourful island has plenty to offer year round, visit during the Cheung Chau Bun Festival which features a procession of colourfully clad children balancing on poles and the famous bun race (this year the event runs from May 19 to 23).

Ferries run 24-hours a day from Central Pier 5, visit nwff.com.hk for schedules.

Stanley Best known for its lively market, Stanley’s seaside promenade is vibrant and busy, packed with bars, cafes and restaurants - the ice cream van on the promenade is a popular treat for kids.

Stanley is around 40 minutes from Central; take bus 6, 6X, 6A, 66 or 260.

Disneyland The magic of Disneyland is sure to capture the little ones' imaginations. Over the next six years, Hong Kong Disneyland will continually grow and unveil new attractions with features being launched almost every year until 2023. $589 for adults and $419 for children. Annual passes start at $1,178 for adults. 3550 3388, hongkongdisneyland.com

Rainy days

Go bowling Tiki Tiki Bowling Bar in Sai Kung combines everything necessary for an exciting day or night out. Bowl from $99/hour and check out their impressive happy hour deals on a Friday evening. tikitiki.hk

Go ice skating Escape the heat and take little snow angels out onto the ice for a magical day of ice skating at one of Kowloon’s shopping centres: Elements ($0.5-1.5/minute); MegaBox ($50-80/session); Festival Walk ($55-60/hour); or Dragon Centre ($40-65/session).

Ryze With over 40 trampolines covering an area of 7,000 sq ft, Ryze will have the kids quite literally bouncing off the walls. One hour flight tickets $150 with discounts for children under 6 years old. ryzehongkong.com

10 | Hong Kong Family Guide

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Hong Kong Family Guide | 11

outdoors

Pack a picnic Great sites to eat your tasty treats in the sun.  Hong Kong Park  Zoological and Botanical Gardens  Tai Tam Country Park  Shek O  Big Wave Bay  Tai Mong Tsai barbecue site

Take a hike Hong Kong has a different hike for everyday of the year, some of our favourites on and off the island are:

Ocean Park

Hong Kong Park

Roller coasters, marine conservation, wildlife enclosures and cable cars offering stunning views of the Southside.The park is currently expanding to include a luxury hotel and allweather water theme park. $480 for adults and $240 for children. SmartFun Annual pass from $924 for adults and $462 for children.

3923 2323, oceanpark.com.hk

Spend a sunny afternoon outdoors at Hong Kong Park, the children’s play area is one of the best and biggest in town, spreading over 1,000 sq-metres. Next door at the Zoological and Botanical Gardens you can pay a visit to the meerkats and monkeys. lcsd.gov.hk

Stargazing Catch a rare glimpse of the Milky Way. Hong Kong’s only Astropark has 24-hour free access and is located within the Chong Hing Water Sports Center in Sai Kung East Country Park.

Another option is Long Ke campsite where the light pollution is just low enough that you can catch the starry night. lcsd.gov.hk

Go on a food tour Hong Kong is packed with over 10,000 Chinese restaurants, noodle shops and street food, explore them with the help of Little Adventures who offers bespoke tasting tours around the Sham Shui Po, Yau Ma Tei and Central and Sheung Wan. The professional team were originally handpicked by chef, Anthony Bourdain.

From US$115 per hour for one or two people.

9853 6746, littleadventuresinhongkong.com

Tai Long Wan Hiking Trail Enjoy the lush trails and ocean views on this trail as it wraps around the bay and winds past several coves. Start your hike at the Sai Wan Pavilion, accessible by village bus 29R from Chan Ma Road. Cool off and enjoy lunch mid-hike at Sai Wan Beach. You could end here by taking a boat back to Sai Kung Pier, or keep hiking past the Chek Keng cove and end at Pak Tam Au, where you can take a bus back to the Sai Kung town. This hike takes four to five hours.

Lai Chi Chong For something more challenging, try the Lai Chi Chong. Starting at Pak Sha O and ending at Shui Long O, the six-hour hike follows Sai Kung’s western shore. Along the way, snap photos of the coastal volcanic sedimentary rocks and Sham Chung’s open grasslands.

Dragon’s Back A firm favourite on Hong Kong Island, this relaxed three-hour trail starts at To Tei Wan and ends at Big Wave Bay, twisting through the Shek O Country Park. The soaring peaks offer views of Shek O, Stanley, Tai Tam and the South China Sea. If you feel like tackling the Hong Kong Trail, Section 1 offers a meandering two-hour hike from Victoria Peak to Pok Fu Lam Reservoir. Start at the Peak Tram Station on Lugard Road, hike past the Peak’s mid-slopes, and enjoy the flora on the Native Tree Walk. Take in the western landscape on the Lung Fu Shan lookout, before finishing at Pok Fu Lam. For our favourite hikes in Sai Kung, see The Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Hiking Guide, $210 from Kidnapped, Bookazine, GOD and Parenthèses or online at hongkongliving.com

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outdoors

Adventures

Adventure junkies are spoilt for choice in the great outdoors

Explore hidden gems Adventure Tours Explore an abandoned Hakka village, snorkel in Hoi Ha, boat around the Ninepin Islands or go on a geotour of Plover Cove Country Park. All activities are narrated in English. Snorkeling and island tours start at around $300 per person with discounts for children. adventuretours.hk

Wild Hong Kong Kayak in Hoi Ha, cycle in Plover Cove or go canyoning in Ping Nam with Wild Hong Kong.

Again, narrated in English these tours are expertly designed to connect you with your adventurous spirit. Priced from around $300 which includes transport to and from the meeting point, an experienced guide and any gear necessary. wildhongkong.com

A Team Edventures Kayak into the blue, paddle from waterfalls to villages against the backdrop of Hong Kong’s mountainous horizons. A Team Edventures offers paddlers a day of kayaking combined with either hiking, canyoning, camping or snorkelling. ateamedventures.com

14 | Hong Kong Family Guide

For an adventure I highly recommend hitting the water.

Come for a kayak around Sai Kung Geopark Rory Mackay, Wild Hong Kong

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Surfs SUP

SUP lesson in Sai Kung

Blue Sky Sports Club The club based in Sai Kung offers Beginner’s SUP classes starting from $500 per person as well as EcoSUP Tours in the beautiful Sai Kung waters from $650 per person. bluesky-sc.com

SUP Hong Kong Dee Cheung and Nadine Bubner invite you to swap your planned retreat for a day-treat doing stand up paddle boarding yoga. Train your muscles to achieve the ultimate balance by getting bendy on the water. SUP Hong Kong is offering 90 minute classes for $500 per person including board hire for those looking to learn the basics of yoga on the water. Classes held in Stanley and Sai Kung. supyogahongkong.com

Surfing Hong Kong Surfing Hong Kong offers surf and SUP lessons throughout the year (6am-6pm at weekends; 6am-9am on weekdays). Group lessons from $500 per hour inclusive of surf or SUP boards. facilities. Located on Big Wave Bay beach. surfinghongkong.com

Hong Kong Family Guide | 15

outdoors

Rock climbing

Camping

Rockstars

Long Coast Seasports

Climbing classes for children (aged 5 and above) and adults at the HKIS climbing wall in Tai Tam and Shek-O Sea Cliffs (depending on age and experience) and HKIS High Ropes course. Classes make great birthday parties, or book private instruction or a family day trip. rockstarshk.com

Located on one of Lantau’s longest beaches.

Choose from a four or six-person tent in the private beachfront campsite or cheat and go for a luxury three-metre safari tent with furniture and air conditioning. Activity vouchers from $1,100 for overnight camping facilities, breakfast, vouchers can be redeemed against kayak and bodyboards rental. longcoast.hk

Get the gear

16 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Asia Pacific Adventure Stocking a range of gear, from camping and biking to watersports equipment. Unit A, 16/F, Gee Chang Hong Centre, 65 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Open 11am-8pm weekdays and 11am-6pm weekends. 2792 7128, asiapacificadventure.com

Marathon Sports One of the largest sports chains in Hong Kong, stocking a range of international brands at competitive prices. Locations throughout Hong Kong including Causeway Bay, Central, Sha Tin. Open Monday to Sunday.

More online at imarathon.com

Escapade Sports Everything from triathlon to rugby gear, nutrition and accessories. Shop online or in stores; Causeway Bay, 2891 1855 Central, 2851 0769 and Repulse Bay, 2395 2778.

Open all week, escapade.com.hk

ProTrek ProTrek stocks camping, running, biking, climbing and hiking gear with 11 stores located across Hong Kong including Admiralty, The Peak and Kowloon. Open 11am-8pm. protrek.com.hk

Hong Kong Family Guide | 17

activities

Get Arty Kids get creative

Anastassia’s Art House Hong Kong’s only Russian Art Academy offers a range of structured art classes for adults and children aged 3 to 16 years old. Students have an array of choices, including painting, drawing and sketching, ceramics, creative drama and design. Art parties and workshops are also available. Centres are located all over Hong Kong, including Happy Valley, Repulse Bay and Sai Kung. arthouse-hk.com

18 | Hong Kong Family Guide

activities

Hong Kong Family Guide | 19

activities

Arts & crafts Take an art tour Accidental Art runs a number of tours, including the Soho Gallery Tour. Narrated in Mandarin or English, exhibitions change approximately every six weeks. Tours priced around $400 per person. accidentalart.co

Ballet lesson at Twinkle Dance Company

designed to boost confidence, enhance teamwork and improve time management.

The studio is based in Sheung Wan. whiskedbaking.com

Art Jamming provides all the necessary equipment for a painting session, all you need to do is put on some music and let inspiration strike. The Wong Chuk Hang venue boasts a garden terrace and indoor studio, opens six days a week. Prices start at $200 per session. artjamming.com

Established by professional artist and teacher Gail Deayton, Artful Kids offers a huge range of activities, materials and projects to inspire children. The studio also holds parties with activities such as painting canvases and making hats. Based in North Point. artfulkids.hk

Dance Twinkle Dance Company Learning to mix at Whisked

The Wellness Cooking School

Take a cooking class

For a health kick, try a cooking class with wellness guru and founder of Project Wellness, Ifat Kafry Hindes. Classes are designed to teach kids and adults to be as nutritious as possible while optimising time and cooking simple, delicious food. Classes from $600 per person for two hours. ifatkafryhindes.com

Whisked

Drama

Children aged 3 to 10 learn cooking techniques and skills while baking all sorts of tasty treats.

There’s an emphasis on healthy eating with many recipes low in sugar and fat. There are also gluten and egg-free options. Lessons are taught in Mandarin and English and are

20 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Island Glee Club The Island Glee Club provides opportunities for aspiring young singers to collaborate with professional singers and performers.

The club teaches singing and dancing while also helping shy children build confidence.

Locations in Central, Pok Fu Lam and Sai Kung. theislandgleeclub.com

Get creative at Art Jamming

Artful Kids

work on developing performance skills, theatre knowledge, teamwork, individual expression and confidence. faustworld.com.hk

Faust International Faust International introduces children to the world of theatre and creativity through lively drama workshops. Aimed at children aged 3 to 18 in venues across Hong Kong, Faust classes

Founded by Twinkle Lam in 2007, Twinkle Dance Company offers Ballet, Jazz and Contemporary dance classes for children aged 14 months all the way to adults. All of the teachers have professional training and qualifications. Based in Central, Wong Chuk Hang and Causeway Bay. twinkledance.com

Red Shoes Dance Company Red Shoe Dance Company is a top dance school in Hong Kong which specialises in Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical, AcroDance, and Hip Hop dance classes.

Teaching children from 3 to 18 years, they offer RAD Ballet and ADAPT Jazz examinations in addition to performances and competitions.

Studios are based in Central and Wong Chuk Hang. redshoedance.com

Hong Kong Family Guide | 21

activities

For grown-ups

Hong Kong Photography Workshop Grab your camera and get ready to shoot some great photos. Photographers of all skill levels can explore Hong Kong in a new light with classes including Photography 101, Street Photography and Night Photography, under the guidance of professional photographers. Classes start at $800 and last three to four hours, maximum eight per class.

Private lessons and courses for photo editing are also available. hkphotoworkshop.com

Makeup Forever Enroll at Makeup Forever’s academy for some professional makeup advice. Located in Causeway Bay, Makeup Forever provides elementary makeup training courses for beginners starting at $2,650. Beauty and bridal certification courses are also available starting at $16,800 for four sessions. Lessons run on weekday evenings and weekends in Causeway Bay. makeupforever.com

The Hong Kong Academy of Flower Arrangement The Hong Kong Academy of Flower Arrangement (HKAFA) offers a range of classes from beginners all the way up to full certificate courses. There is also the option to complete a Comprehensive Florist Diploma for Beginners.

Practice techniques including freehand & NUFLEUR Contemporary Minimalistic.

Locations in Wan Chai, Tsim Sha Tsui and Wong Chuk Hang. hkafa.com.hk

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Try a tea workshop Tea is big in Hong Kong, the city even has its own museum dedicated to tea ware (Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware in Hong Kong Park). Discover the different variations of tea, and try your hand at traditional brewing at Quarry Bay tea house MingCha. Alternatively, learn about complementary flavours in a tasting workshop that pairs Chinese teas with chocolate, pastries, and even Spanish hams. Starting from $380, bring along your child aged 11 and below for free - additional children charged at $190. mingcha.com

New Concept Mandarin New Concept Mandarin offers Mandarin courses for people from all walks of life.

Their classes are held in either their center in Central or the client's home, with flexible options such as online learning, private or group classes and even immersion and intensive courses. Private course prices range from $360 to $560 per hour. newconceptmandarin.com

activities

Sports Where to give your kids the runaround

Tennis OTR Tennis Teaching students to win with pride and lose with character, OTR Tennis offers tailored programmes for kids of all ages and abilities run by qualified international coaches. Classes are held at the Hong Kong Tennis Centre, Aberdeen Tennis & Squash Centre and Hong Kong International School. otrtennis.com

Monster Tennis Monster Tennis aims to introduce the game to young children. Coaches use low-compression balls, smaller racquets, colourful teaching aids and shorter court dimensions, tailored to the children’s age and size. Lessons are scheduled across Hong Kong including Happy Valley and Causeway Bay. monstertennis.hk Game, set, match

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activities

Basketball Hong Kong Basketball Academy HKBA is a complete basketball academy offering both girls and boys one-on-one and small-group basketball coaching as well as camps throughout the year. Training throughout the week at multiple locations including Stanley, Wong Chuk Hang and Sai Ying Pun. hkbaallday.com

Football Brazilian Football Academy The BFA offers fun and competitive football coaching for boys and girls aged 5 and up as well as a special Tinytots soccer programme for little dribblers aged 16 months to 4 years. Parties with a professional coach from $2,500. Locations include Discovery Bay and Sandy Bay. bfa.hk

Brazilian Football Academy after a team match

Lessons held at Whitehead golf club in Ma On Shan. thegolfschool.hk

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

Hong Kong Island Stingrays Hong Kong Island Stingrays Swim Club provides a year-round comprehensive swim program for beginners through to potential national team athletes. Seven squadscater to different ages and abilities. Lessons take place at Hong Kong International School. hkstingrays.com

Sailing

Hong Kong Football Club

Hebe Haven Yacht Club

Not surprising for a club with such a successful adult rugby division, HKFC has friendly but competitive mini-rugby and colts sections.

Training is in English on Sundays at the HKFC facilities in Happy Valley. hkfcyouthrugby.com

This Sai Kung-based sailing club offer five day on and off water beginner ‘Optimist Stage 1 and 2’ programmes. Children will gain confidence and basic knowledge of what it takes to be an 'Optimist Sailor'. Courses run from 10am-5pm and cost $2,900 (members) and $3,800 (nonmembers). hhyc.org.hk

Horse riding

HK Football Club Junior Soccer

Hong Kong Jockey Club Public Riding School

HKFC’s Junior Soccer offers programmes for players aged 5 to 18 and a programme for players with special needs. Sessions take place on Saturday mornings and Monday evenings in Happy Valley. hkfcjuniorsoccer.com

Giddy-up! Horse riding lessons train riders up to British Horse Society standards. The waiting lists can be long and classes are small so book early.

Three locations in Tuen Mun, Pok Fu Lam and Lei Yue Mun. campaign.hkjc.com

Golf

Running

The Golf School of Hong Kong

26 Coaching

Led by a PGA professional, The Golf School of Hong Kong hopes to introduce young children to the world of golf in a fun and unpressured environment. Kids can join weekend golf lessons, sessions priced at $350 per hour per student.

Offering some of the best youth triathlon training programmes on Hong Kong Island, 26 Coaching aims to develop techniques and teach children the importance of strength and conditioning as well as performance. 26coaching.com

24 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Swimming

Multi sports ESF Sports All ESF Sports classes and clubs are open to both ESF and non-ESF students. Experienced coaches teach a wide range of sports. Classes are held at a number of locations across Hong Kong. Check the website for details. esf.org.hk

Flex Kids Hong Kong’s most dynamic instructors get little ones moving in all kinds of ways with Pilates, Yoga, Twinkle Ballet and even Funky Dance classes. Based in Central and Wong Chuk Hang. flexhk.com

Hong Kong Family Guide | 25

parties

Kids’ parties Cakes, decorations and more

Venues ARace A great birthday treat for kids! ARace offers kids aged 4 and up the opportunity to race miniature Porsche 911's around a 50-meter track in Quarry Bay. arace.hk

AirPlay Blow Dry Bar AirPlay Blow Dry Bar offers “Kid’s spa day” packages, the ultimate spa day for little princesses. Customize your own workshops to suit little ones wishes, AirPlay’s artists will style both hair and nails and even use organic nail polish on little fingers and toes. Based in The Landmark, Central. airplaybar.com

Maggie & Rose If you’re looking for somewhere to host your child’s party, the club has a dedicated events team to take care of the whole shebang from food, and drink to themes, party bags, invitations, thank you cards, entertainers and photographers. Maggie & Rose is located in The Pulse, Repulse Bay.maggieandrose.com.hk

Pizza Express Pizza Parties The good news is you won’t hear any complaints about the food here as the kids will be cooking it themselves. Pizza parties last for about two hours and cost $198, plus 10 per cent service charge per child. Branches across Hong Kong including Stanley, Central and Wong Chuk Hang. pizzaexpress.com.hk

Happy times with Eezy Peezy Parties

Jumping Castles Jumping Castles provides the ultimate themed bouncy castle experience for kids’ parties. The Jumping Castle team will arrive one hour before the party starts to set up. After that, kids can bounce to their hearts' content. Prices from $1,650 for four hours. jumpingcastles.com.hk

Organisers Hirely An online platform for party planners and anyone planning a party in Hong Kong. Providing everything that a party could possibly need, you can search through a host of caterers, cake designers, makeup artists, hair stylists, DJs, photographers and photo booth rentals. Simply search through the services you need, receive quotes from vendors, and pick the price that’s right for you. Find out more at hirely.asia

Rumple and Friends Get the party started with the Rumple and Friends party packages. Choose from a wide range of party themes including astronaut, fairy, pirate and dinosaur themed. Packages start from $2,220 per hour including a magic show and party games. Rumple and Friends also organise holiday camps, discos and offer parties for adults including murder mystery. rumpleandfriends.com

26 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Party supplies Partytime No matter your age, Partytime is the place to find everything you need for the perfect party. The colourful stores with locations including Central, Repulse Bay and Discovery Bay have a wide range of invitations, balloons decorations, toys and sweets to cater for all budgets.

They also offer a full party-planning service with everything from face-painters and magicians to customised cakes and invitations. partytime.com.hk

Eezy Peezy Parties Take the stress out of your next children’s party with this online one-stop shop. Use the website to create and send invitations, choose a wish list from the gift registry, order party essentials for delivery to your door, book an entertainer and even send thank-you notes after the event. Easy peasy. eezypeezyparties.com

Hong Kong Family Guide | 27

dining

Family dining Brunches, places to take the kids and special occasions

28 | Hong Kong Family Guide

dining

Hong Kong Family Guide | 29

dining

Places to impress guests from out of town Sevva With jaw-dropping views and sophisticated decor, SEVVA is located in Central. With an awesome balcony it is the perfect place to impress your guests. 25/F, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central, 2537 1388, sevva.hk

Shore Shore has a cosy outdoor terrace Bes coupled with an excellent lount cosy reputation for steaks with ge dry-aged and wet-aged cuts imported from the US, Canada, Australia and Scotland. An excellent option for entertaining friends and family from out of town. 3rd and 4th Floor, The L. place, 139 Queen’s Road Central, 2915 1638, shore.com.hk

Hutong Hutong serves Northern Chinese food in a setting that resembles a traditional Beijing courtyard house, complete with terracotta tiles, traditional red lanterns, and antique wooden furniture. A generous 18-course Feng Wei brunch is on offer at weekends. 28/F, 1 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 3428 8342, hutong.com.hk

30 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Bes seaviet w

The Ocean

Limewood

The Ocean is easily one of the most stunning restaurants in Hong Kong. With incredible views and a menu created by Michelin-starred Chef Olivier Bellin which focuses entirely on seafood, it's sure to impress. The Pulse, 303-304.

3/F, 28, Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2889 5939, theocean.hk

Pack the buckets and spades and enjoy a chilled afternoon by the beach. Limewood specialises in barbecued seafood with Southeast Asian and South American flavours. The kids’ menu includes mockeritas and hand-piped churros for the little ones to enjoy. Shop 103 & 104, G/F, the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2866 8668, limewood.hk

Wooloomooloo PRIME

Bes firewtofor rks

As you’d expect from a steakhouse, Wooloomooloo PRIME serves the best cuts from Australia and the U.S as well as various seafood options. The floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terrace offer spectacular views of Tsim Sha Tsui and the surrounding Victoria Harbour, perfect for unobstructed views of the fireworks at New Year. 21/F, The ONE, 100 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2870 0087, wooloo-mooloo.com

Places to take the kids FRITES The kids play area at all FRITES locations is a big pull for families in Hong Kong. Enjoy beer and mussels while the kids run wild. A dedicated kids menu caters for all. Locations include Central, Wan Chai and Quarry Bay, frites.hk

Crazy Cow Cafe Crazy Cow Cafe in Sai Kung is owned by the same group as Tikitiki Bowling Bar, it serves delicious pastries, coffee and cakes and caters to children with staff regularly dressing up as different animals and characters.

G2, 1A Chui Tong Road, Sai Kung, 2710 9222, facebook.com/crazycowcafeHK

PAPI This family-friendly food haven in Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay boasts an outdoor seating area and offers simple but mouth-wateringly authentic dishes, with an emphasis on great service and a casual dining experience. Perfect for a hearty meal with the family and pets.

G/F, 8 Cleveland, Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay or make a reservation at 2808 0820, papi-hk.com

Happy diners at FRITES

dining Beef & Liberty

Best fo

r

burger Beef & Liberty is well-known s for its range of burgers made from grass-fed, Tasmanian beef and range of craft ales. The Milk Bar offers homemade milkshakes and ice creams. Brunch options available. Three locations in Central, Wan Chai and Stanley, beef-liberty.com/hk

Linguini Fini Italian-American restaurant Linguini Fini offers Hong Kong’s first TINY happy hour. On Mondays-Fridays (excluding public holidays) from 4-7pm the kids’ menu is free for under 12’s when an accompanying adult orders off the à la

Making a mess at Linguini Fini

Carte menu. 49 Elgin Street, SoHo, Hong Kong, 2387 6338, linguinifini.com

The Salted Pig The Salted Pig offers hearty family-style dining with a menu that is best known for its pork-laden classics and generous portions served in a casual, fun style. Sit back and relax with your friends and family over a hearty and porktastic feast! G/F, No.1 Knutsford Terrace, Tsim Sha Tsui,Kowloon, 2367 0990, thesaltedpig.com.hk

Grassroots Pantry Plant-based cuisine - using sustainable, organic

and locally-sourced ingredients. Colourful and exciting food options could help get your little ones on the path to healthy eating. Finish up your meal with a serving of deliciously sweet mango chia seed pudding. 108 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, 2873 3353, grassrootspantry.com

Cull ’N Pistol A seafood haven located on the shores of Sai Wan Ho, this dining experience is inspired by New England’s storied seafood traditions and aims to bring an East Coast American twist to the food creations. Shop GA1-3, G/F, Site A, 55 Tai Hong Street, Lei King Wan, 2513 0199, cullnpistol.com.hk

Healthy living at Grassroots Pantry

Hong Kong Family Guide | 31

dining

Brunch club The Verandah Located on the site of the old Repulse Bay hotel, The Verandah exudes elegance and offers glorious views of the beach and out across the South China Sea. Sunday brunch is a spectacular affair; seafood lovers can pile their plates with Alaskan king crab legs, oysters and prawns, there is also dim sum, sushi, sashimi, a fresh pasta station and a chocolate fountain. Brunch costs $688 for adults; $344 for children aged 3-11 and free for under 3’s.

Sundays 11am-3pm. Book early for a table by the window. 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay, 2292 2822, therepulsebay.com

Pirata A laid back brunch option in Wan Chai which serves up classic Italian fare. Choose from the free flow antipasti station followed by a starter, main and dessert selection. Kid’s options include pasta, meatballs and fried mozzarella sandwiches. Crayons and colouring sheets are on hand too. Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, noon-3pm. Buffet costs $298 for adults, $98 for kids. Free flow add on is $180.

29/30F, 239 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, 2887 0270, pirata.hk

32 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Zuma Zuma’s free flow Champagne brunches are a popular choice for adults, the Japanese food on offer includes endless mountains of sushi, sashimi, tempura and salads. Kids can enjoy the play area for kids as well as a well thought out kids menu including specially designed bento boxes. Brunch from $688 for adults and $200 for under 10’s, under 4’s free (two hour sittings). Level 5 & 6, 15 Queen's Road, Central, 3657 6388, zumarestaurant.com.hk

208 Duecento Otto A buzzing family-friendly haven on weekends as families enjoy the semi-buffet and options of mains or pizzas. A play area keeps

the kids entertained. 11am-3pm, $218 for adults and $118 for children under 12. Free flow add on packages from $200. 208 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, 2549 0208, 208.com.hk

Kitchen at W Hotel Head to Kitchen at W Hotel for a classic spread including salads, seafood, pasta, pizza, sushi, a carvery and huge dessert selection. Saturday is family day at Kitchen, one child (4-11 years old) eats free with every paying adult. Weekends noon-2:30pm (until 3pm on Sundays).

Buffet costs $488 for adults on Saturdays.

No.1, Austin Road West, Kowloon, 3717 2299, w-hongkong.com/kitchen

dining

Hong Kong Family Guide | 33

education

34 | Hong Kong Family Guide

education

Schools & tuition The best schools and after school tuition

Hong Kong Family Guide | 35

education

Kindergartens

Discovery Montessori School

Malvern College Pre-School Hong Kong

Norwegian International School

Address

Address

Address

| 175 Kwong Fuk Road, Tai

Telephone

| 2638 0269 | kinder@nis.edu.hk

| Campuses in Discovery Bay

Telephone

| 2850 8006

Email

| DB: enquiry@ discoverymontessori.info,

|U nits 9-12, Coronation Southwest Kowloon

Telephone

| 3898 4668

Email

Email

| mcpsadm@

Website

| nis.edu.hk

Ages

| 3 to 5 years

Curriculum

| International Early Years

Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $59,250 per year (K1-K2)

malvernpreschool.hk

Central: enquiry@dms. | edu.hk

Website

| malvernpreschool.hk

| childrenworks.net

Ages

|1 to 5 years

Ages

| 2 to 6 years

Curriculum

|B ritish Early Years

Curriculum

| International Preschool Tuition fees 2017/2018

|$ 9,095 x 11 instalments

Website

with bilingual (English &

Tuition fees 2017/2018

Curriculum

Foundation Stage

Putonghua) immersion

(pre-school programmes,

curriculum

pre-nursery to kindergarten 3, half-day)

| $85,800 to $127,600

Sai Kung Montessori

Po, New Territories

Circle, 1 Yau Cheung Road,

and Central

Small World Christian Kindergarten

Kindergarten tips What language do HK’s kindergartens teach?

HK’s local kindergartens operate in Cantonese while the international establishments usually offer English and/ or bilingual language instruction, including Mandarin and French.

Address

Address

|1 0 Borrett Road, Mid-Levels

Cheung, Po Tung Road,

Telephone

| 2525 0922

Sai Kung

Email

| office@smallworld.edu.hk

| G/F, Unit SB, 787 Tan

Telephone

| 5369 8587

Website

| smallworld.edu.hk

Website

| saikungmontessori.com

Ages

|3 to 5 years

Ages

| 3 to 6 years

Curriculum

| I nternational Early Years

Curriculum

| Kindergarten (child directed, hands on and exploration based)

Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $7,500/month x 10.5 months

36 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Curriculum Tuition fees 2017/2018

|$ 57,400 per year (K1, K2/K3)

When to apply for Primary One? Interviews for primary schools take place early in the academic year preceding the year that the child is due to start.

What kind of fees to expect?

All kindergartens are privately run and international ones in particular can be expensive. Fees range according to the length of the session (half-or full day), facilities and teaching method.

Hong Kong Family Guide | 37

education

Primary

Dalton School Hong Kong

Island Christian Academy

Mount Kelly Hong Kong

Address

Address

Address

| G/F, Imperial Cullinan,

|7 0 Bridges Street, Sheung Wan

10 Hoi Fai Road, Kowloon

| Campuses in Kowloon

Telephone

| 2110 1978

Email

| admissions@mountkelly.

Telephone

| 3612 4660

Telephone

| 2537 2522

Email

| info@dshk.edu.hk

Email

| office@islandca.edu.hk

Website

| dshk.edu.hk

Website

| islandca.edu.hk

Website

| mountkelly.com.hk

Ages

| 5 to 11 years

Ages

|5 to 11 years

Ages

| 6 months to 13 years

Curriculum

| US Common Core & Beijing

Curriculum

| I nternational Primary

Curriculum

| British National Curriculum

Tuition fees 2017/2018

Tsinghua University Primary

Curriculum & International

School core for Chinese

Middle Years Curriculum

| $181,500 per year (primary)

Tuition fees 2017/2018

|$ 111,000 per year (Year

com.hk

and British Early Years Curriculum Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $155,200 to $175,000

1 to 6), $116,600 per year

(preparatory school), $66,550

(Year 7)

to $95,700 (preschool, half-day)

Norwegian International School

Stamford American School Hong Kong

The International Montessori School

Address

Address

Address

| 170 Kam Shan Road,

|2 5 Man Fuk Road,

| Campuses in Mid-Levels, South Horizons, Stanley

Ho Man Tin, Kowloon

Tai Po, New Territories

and Aldrich Bay

Telephone

| 2658 0341

Telephone

| 2500 8688

Email

| office@nis.edu.hk

Email

| admissions@sais.hk.edu

Telephone

| 2772 2468

Website

| nis.edu.hk

Website

| sais.edu.hk

Email

| apply@ims.edu.hk

Ages

| 5 to 12 years

Ages

|5 to 11 years

Website

| ims.edu.hk

Curriculum

| International Primary

Curriculum

|C ommon Core/AERO,

Ages

| 2 to 12 years

Curriculum

| Montessori Dual-Language

Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $12,000 to $15,000 per

Inquiry Based

Curriculum Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $95,500 per year

Tuition fees 2017/2018

Grade 5), $182,100 (Grade 6 to Grade 8)

38 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Programmes

|$ 165,900 (kindergarten to

month

Hong Kong Family Guide | 39

education

All through

American International School

Canadian International School of Hong Kong

Discovery Bay International School

Address

Address

Address

| Discovery Bay, Lantau

Telephone

| 2914 2142 (early years),

| 125 Waterloo Rd,

| 36 Nam Long Shan Road,

Island

Aberdeen

Kowloon Tong Telephone

| 2336 3812

Telephone

| 2525 7088

Email

| admissions@ais.edu.hk

Email

| admissions@cdnis.edu.hk

Website

| ais.edu.hk

Website

| cdnis.edu.hk

Ages

| 5 to 18 years

Ages

| 3 to 18 years

Website

| dbis.edu.hk

Curriculum

| US highschool diploma

Curriculum

| IB PYP, IB MYP, IB DP and

Ages

| Pre-primary to 18 years

Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $78,960​(early childhood 1,

Curriculum

| International curriculum with

OSSD (Ontario Secondary

secondary)

British Curriculum, GCSE

School Diploma)

half-day), $145,320 (high school, full-day)

2987 7331 (primary/

Tuition fees 2017/2018

A-levels

| $103,500 to $187,100 Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $101,700 to $175,000

Discovery Montessori Academy

French International School of Hong Kong

Han Academy

Address

Address

Address

| G/F - 2/F, 33-35 Wong Chuk

Hung Hom, Chai Wan and

Telephone

| 3998 6300

Tseung Kwan O

Email

| admission@hanacademy. | hanacademy.edu.hk

| Block 1, Discovery Bay

| Campuses in Happy Valley,

Hang Road, Aberdeen

Jardine's Lookout,

North Telephone

| 2812 9668

Email

| christie@dms.edu.hk

Website

| childrenworks.net

Telephone

| 2577 6217

Ages

| 3 to 12 years

Email

| info@lfis.edu.hk

Website

Curriculum

| Bilingual (English and

Website

| fis.edu.hk

Ages

| 5 to 18 years

Putonghua), following the

Ages

| 5 to 18 years

Curriculum

| Bilingual International

International Baccalaureate

Curriculum

| IGSCE & IBDP

(IB) Program and

Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $100,260 to $118,584

International Montessori

(primary), $115,354 to

Elementary Educational

$189,560 (secondary)

experience as outlined by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Tuition fees 2017/2018

edu.hk

| $85,580 to $125,180

40 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Curriculum from Y1 to Y13, Tuition fees 2017/2018

Primary to Secondary | $198,000 to $218,000

Hong Kong Family Guide | 41

education

All through

Harbour School

Hong Kong Academy

International College Hong Kong

Address

Address

Address

| Campuses in Tai Po and

Telephone

| 3955 3000 (primary),

Email

| info@ichkhly.edu.hk

| Campuses in Kennedy Town

|3 3 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung

Sha Tau Kok

New Territories

and Ap Lei Chau Telephone

| 2816 5222

Telephone

| 2655 1118

Email

| info@ths.edu.hk

Email

| office@hkacademy.edu.hk

Website

| ths.edu.hk

Website

| hkacademy.edu.hk

Ages

| Pre-primary to 18 years

Ages

|3 to 18 years

Curriculum

| AERO/Common Core

Curriculum

| I B (PYP, MYP & DP)

Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $158,000 to $191,500

Tuition fees 2017/2018

|$ 146,600 to $214,600(Grade 11 to Grade 12)

2655 9018 (secondary) (primary), info@ichk.edu.hk (secondary) Website

| ichk.edu.hk

Ages

| Birth to 18 years

Curriculum

| PYP, DP, IGSCE

Tuition fees 2017/2018

| $119,300 to $171,200

Malvern College Hong Kong

Nord Anglia International School

The Independent Schools Foundation Academy

Address

Address

Address

| 1 Kong Sin Wan Road,

| Fo Chun Road, Providence

|C ampuses in Kowloon,

Pokfulam

Tai Tam and Tui Min Hoi

Bay, New Territories Telephone

| 3898 4688

Telephone

| 3958 1428

Telephone

| 2202 2028

Email

| admissions@malverncollege.

Email

| admissions@nais.hk

Email

| admissions@isf.edu.hk

Website

| nordangliaeducation.com

Website

| academy.isf.edu.hk

Ages

| 4 years 8 months to

Curriculum

| The ISF Academy Bilingual

org.hk Website

| malverncollege.org.hk

Ages

| 3 to 18 years

Ages

| 5 to 18 years

Curriculum

| English National Curriculum,

Curriculum

| IB (PYP, MYP, DP)

Tuition fees 2017/2018

Tuition fees 2018/2019

| $160,000 (Years 1 to 6), $182,000 (Years 7 to 9)

IGCSE, IBDP

18 years Immersion Curriculum, IB

| $75,000 to $105,000

Middle Years Programme,

(nursery half day), $120,000

IB Diploma Programme

(nursery extended day), $136,500 (lower

| $177,410 to $224,070

kindergarten), $150,320

(application fee is $1,000, all

(upper kindergarten),

applicants are invited for an

$150,325 (primary),

interview)

$167,685 (secondary)

42 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Tuition fees 2017/2018

Hong Kong Family Guide | 43

education

In tuition Academic help is at hand

ITS EDUCATION ASIA ITS Education Asia provides educational support for children and adults across a range of subjects as well as exam preparation services for SATs, iGCSEs, A-levels, IB and more. 2116 3916, itseducationasia.com

Sylvan Learning Center Sylvan uses a diagnostic assessment to establish a child’s strengths and weaknesses and designs a tailor-made programme accordingly. Services include tuition, homework help and preparation for school entrance exams.

2873 0662, sylvan.edu.hk

Tutor Partners Learning to count at Mulberry House

The studio is such a cool learning environment. At first, listening to my voice was totally weird, but it helped me understand how I actually sound. I’m a bit of a mumbler, and often talk too fast and the voice coach was right on that, working on skills to slow down, articulate, project. At the end, the final recording was awesome. I sounded so clear and confident. I’m going to smash my Uni interviews now!

Conor Spangfort Speak Up! student

Mulberry House With locations in Central and Wong Chuk Hang, Mulberry House offers a nurturing and vibrant Mandarin learning environment for 8 months to 8 year olds. Children engage and learn actively developing their ability to think, speak a ​ nd acquire Mandarin l​iteracy for life long use.

5598 0509, mulberryhouseasia.com

Ampla Education A one-stop education solution, Ampla can tailor packages around your child’s individual needs including admissions consulting, student mentorship and academic tutoring. The team graduated from top universities around the world. 6990 3335, ampla-edu.com

All Voice Talent All Voice Talent’s Speak Up! youth programs are specifically devised for 13-19 year olds to develop their vocal confidence, clarity and authenticity; essential skills in all areas of school life, and beyond. The sessions, delivered in a professional recording studio, are based on our voice coaching programs delivered to CEOs, MD's & Senior Partners across Asia, but tailored to your child’s needs. It will equip them to become our young executives of tomorrow.

2517 0866, allvoicetalent.com

AEGIS ADVISORS Aegis Advisors provides students with a full range of educational support and guidance including advisory services for US/UK boarding schools and universities and private tutoring from primary through to IB, AP, GCSE and A-level curriculums. 8175 5687, aegis-advisors.com

44 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Tutor Partners deal on a person-by-person basis to customise lessons and schedules around individual learning needs. Lessons are delivered at the tutors' or learners home. All IB and GCSE subjects covered for Years 1 to 13 and Key Stages 1 to 3. 6461 8690

New Concept Mandarin New Concept Mandarin specialises in teaching Mandarin Chinese as a second language. The school offer classroom based and online lessons so lessons can be tailored around a family schedule. Face to face classes can be held in their center in Central or at student's home.

2850 4332, newconceptmandarin.com

Southside Mandarin As well as offering straightforward Mandarin lessons, this learning centre has playgroups and immersion programmes for children aged 6 months to 12 years. Babies up to 24 months old join the Putonghua playgroup whilst older children can attend art, music and drama classes. All classes are taught by professionally qualified native speakers with experience in early childhood and primary education. 3427 9619, southsidemandarin.com

Tute.HK Tute.HK uses British undergraduates from top UK universities to lead online tutorials. Students can opt for group or one-on-one sessions in almost any discipline.

3166 5988, tute.hk

Hong Kong Family Guide | 45

shopping

Home & Living Make your life beautiful

46 | Hong Kong Family Guide

shopping

Hong Kong Family Guide | 47

shopping

Showroom at Mirth

Affordable art Art House Asia Helen Smeaton has turned her Clearwater Bay home into an art gallery and her lack of overheads translates into very reasonably priced art. Paintings, photography by Phillipa Bloom and sculptures are all one-offs and Smeaton will let you take artwork home before purchase so you can see what it looks like in situ. She also sells gorgeous handwoven Dhurrie rugs custom made in India. thearthouseasia.com

Furniture rental Decor8 Although most of its rental business is directed towards events and photo shoots, Decor8 will rent out its trendy, designer-look furniture for residential purposes from one day to a maximum of two months. decor8.com.hk

Home Essentials From pots and pans to beds and sofas, you can rent pretty much anything at Home Essentials. All furniture is new and you set the rental terms, with the option of renting by the month or longer term.

Everything is fully maintained during the rental period and you are also offered the option to own what you rent. homeessentials.com.hk

48 | Hong Kong Family Guide

Decor8

transform the space. Clients opting for Spruce Our Space simply email the consultants pictures of a space, who send back a written description of how to arrange their furniture, ways of incorporating colour and pattern and suggestions for accessories, wall art and decorative pieces. thornandburrow.com

The Home Stylist Indigo Living As well as a vast and stylish selection of home furnishings to buy online and in its stores, Indigo Living offers flexible furniture rental solutions, from single pieces to kitting out an entire home. Rental available from one month to two years. Indigo also offers a full range of interior services including home styling and renovation. indigo-living.com

Design services Thorn & Burrow In addition to a whole shopful of beautiful home furnishings, Thorn & Burrow offers inspiration and advice on creating a home. The Just Four Things service looks at an existing room and decides which four things would benefit from being switched with four new items to

Whatever type of interior design help you need, give the team at The Home Stylist a call.

Alex Sheldon and her international team offer furniture rental advice and professional styling for in- and outdoor spaces to create welcoming

Insider tip Head across the Border Feeling adventurous? Get a visa and head over the border to the Lo Wu Commercial Building in Shenzhen to get soft furnishings made there. We recommend Candy Bedding for towels, cushions and bedlinen (shop 89A-100A in the fabric market on the 5th floor) and ShenZhen BaoShiHeng Curtain & Cloth Decoration Shop (shop 3066) for curtains. Both will courier your purchases to your door.

shopping homes. They will also help you shop for furniture and accessories. thehomestylist.org

Bespoke furniture Timothy Oulton If you’re looking for something original and unique stop by Timothy Oulton. Branded after its Founder and Creative Director, the brand was launched globally in 2008 and has a presence in some of the world’s great cities including London, New York and Sydney.

Timothy Oulton features new designs of daring, authentic hand craftsmanship. His years spent scanning flea markets for the most one-off pieces have helped him develop a unique instinct for identifying beautiful creations. timothyoulton.com

Red Cabinet If you can’t find something that matches your decor among Red Cabinet’s extensive selection of one-of-a-kind pieces, the popular furniture store is happy to design something tailor made for you. They will take your concept (or come up with something based on your taste and requirements) from sketch to installation.

Stylish kids’ furniture and home design services available too. red-cabinet.com.hk

Sofasale If Sofasale’s existing sofas don’t fit your taste or your space, its bespoke sofa service will create one to your exact specifications with full flexibility in terms of dimensions, finishing, style and shape. sofasale.com.hk

Accessories iDecorate Check out iDecorate for all sorts of interior goodies that will give your home character and style. Products can be purchased online or at their retail outlet in Times Square. iDecorate also offers an interior styling service. idecorateshop.com

Manks Specialising in Scandinavian design with its signature clean lines and retro aesthetic, Manks is the place to find statement pieces that are both functional and fabulous. manks.com.hk

Go green Go green in even the smallest spaces HKGreenWalls.com hydroponic vertical garden systems (including plant pictures) for indoors and out.

HKGreenWalls.com City Hydroponics Grow your own hydroponic herbs, ornamental plants and veggies on windowsills, balconies and rooftops. cityhydroponics.hk Prince Edward Flower Market Stock up on every gardening supply you could possibly need at this bustling market If you’re not blessed with green thumbs, a vaseful of fresh flowers will bring the outdoors in.

Mirth A treasure trove of globally sourced furniture and interior accessories as well as clothing, toys, artwork and gifts. Products are cool and quirky - the kind of things that can instantly lift a space. mirthhome.com

Hong Kong Family Guide | 49

shopping

Shop ‘til you drop Fashion COS Short for Collection Of Style, this sleek and minimalist store is great for year round office wear and fantastic classic pieces that last for years.

Hold out for their sales which offer discounts of up to 70 per cent a few times a year. cosstores.com

J.Crew This all-American brand is fairly new to the Hong Kong shopping scene, it is a welcome addition and offers sought after prints, fabrics, Italian cashmere, shoes and handbags. jcrew.com/hk

Zara Popular Spanish brand which has taken the world by storm since its conception in 1975. The company also owns other fashion retail brands in Hong Kong including Zara Home, Massimo Dutti, Uterque and Oysho. zara.com/hk

Children’s clothes and toys Retykle Retykle is an eco-conscious, upscale second hand clothing store selling kids and babies clothes. Created by expat, Sarah Garnera as a platform for parents to resell outfits their children have outgrown, the best clothes are retailed at up to 90 per cent off their original prices with the remaining being donated to Retykle's partner charity, Hands On Hong Kong. retykle.com

to crib bumpers, rugs, mobiles and baby fashion accessories. Petit-bazaar.com

Bumps to Babes

Seed

Makaron

One of Hong Kong's largest mother and baby superstores offering maternity, baby and children's ranges from around the world at affordable prices. bumpstobabes. com

Childrenswear boutique from Australia offering newborn, toddler, child clothing and accessories collections for girls and boys up to 10 years.

Seed Party! Is a fun, sparkly range for girls. seedheritage.com.hk

Makaron is a contemporary Hong Kong beach and leisure accessories brand.

Expect picnic mats, pouches, clutches, totes and beach bags in a warm and beach-ready kaleidoscope of colours and patterns. Free delivery within Hong Kong. makaronfashion.com

Happy customer

Mothercare

The Little Door

Leading British retailer, established more than 50 years ago to provide parents and expectant parents with the quality and innovative products for babies and young children. A onestop shop for maternity, baby and childrens’ needs. mothercare.com.hk

A small toy shop for every boy and girl who loves to play - all products are handpicked in Japan. Founder Chika has a love and passion for beautifully made toys that engage the child. Shop online at thelittledoor-hk.com

Petit Bazaar A charming little shop filled with carefully curated items from Europe for little ones in Hong Kong. From handmade knitted and sewn toys,

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Toys“R”Us Needs no introduction! A megastore filled with every toy imaginable - a worldwide dreamland for children, not so much for parents! Locations across Hong Kong. toysrus.com.hk

Best beach style

H&M Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) is an affordable Swedish brand known across the globe for selling casual wear clothing, shoes and accessories inspired by the catwalk.

Check out their year round collections of colourful swimwear.hm.com/hk

SHEER Looking for something a little special?

SHEER, located in The Landmark, Central offers more than 35 designer labels. sheer.com.hk

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shopping

Online goceries

British Essentials Official online retailer partner of UK supermarket, Morrison’s own label groceries in Hong Kong. britishessentials.hk Silver Cross' Aston Martin pram

Silver Cross Leading British pram makers Silver Cross have collaborated with high profile brand Silver Cross Wave Pram to develop what has become one of the most sought after prams in the world. Flagship store in Harbour City. silvercrossbaby.com

Books & Stationery Bookazine Bookazine prides itself in offering the best selection of English language books and magazines in Hong Kong. In addition, each store also offers a range of stationery, cards, calendars and gift items. There are currently 10 Bookazine stores in Hong Kong. bookazine.com.hk

Kikki.K This Swedish store offers a wide range of beautifully designed and themed journals and notebooks and gifts, it also runs workshops in mindfulness, setting goals and creating positive habit routines. kikki-k.com

Muji Originally founded in Japan in 1980, this chain offers a wide variety of good quality products including household goods, apparel, food and stationery with minimalist theme and practical design. muji.com

Lok Man Rare Books Centrally located in Hong Kong's Chancery Lane, Lok Man Rare Books offers a wide range of signed and rare books, first editions, and important folios. The space can also be used as a unique setting for events including private cocktail parties, whisky or wine tastings and author readings. lokmanbooks.com

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Electronics

Wan Chai Computer Centre The most popular shopping centre on Hong Kong Island for computers, computer accessories, peripherals, software, and cameras.The prices for these items are usually cheaper than what you’d find them for in the big name electronics stores.

130 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, 2834 7685

Mongkok Computer Centre The three floor mall houses more than 70 computer shops selling everything computerrelated including laptops, computer software, hardware and other accessories. The mall attracts some 10,000 customers daily. Most stores offer made-to-order computers with customizable configurations. 8 Nelson Street, Mong Kok, 2302 2858

Fortress One of the biggest electronic retailers in Hong Kong. Established over 40 years, the company operates over 80 stores across Hong Kong and Macau. fortress.com.hk

Groceries Wellcome Wellcome is one of Hong Kong’s two largest supermarket chains, with stores located across the city, it stocks fresh produce and Asian and Western staple dry goods. wellcome.com.hk

Park’n Shop The other large supermarket chain in Hong Kong with more than 300 outlets in Hong Kong, Macau, and Mainland China. ParknShop has a few other

Farmer’s Kitchen Founded by Hong Kong expat, Emma Pike, this company offers high quality Australian meats direct from a farm to your door. farmerskitchen.com.hk

Feather & Bone Popular butcher and delicatessen located in Central, Happy Valley and Clearwater Bay, stocking artisanal preserves, seasonal meats and cheeses and quality kitchen products. featherandbone.com.hk

Honest Bee This online retailer recently arrived in Hong Kong from Singapore, the site offers more than 10,000 products online.

Honest Bee sources their products from a wide range of stores in Hong Kong and offers same-day delivery. honestbee.hk

iHerb An online grocery retailer from the US with a large range of natural and organic food, health and beauty products. hk.iherb.com

Jou Sun A website stocking groceries and household products from retailers, farmers and importers across Hong Kong. jousun.com

South Stream Seafoods Well established in Hong Kong, the brand stocks a wide range of fresh and frozen produce as well as organic fruit and vegetables. south-stream-seafoods.com

shopping sub-brands: Fusion, Taste and International and GREAT in Pacific Place which caters more towards expats, with a larger range of imported brands. parknshop.com

C!ty'super A smaller, boutique chain selling high-end imported produce shipped over as fresh as they can get it. C!ty'super also stocks a range of speciality Japanese food. citysuper.com.hk

Marketplace by Jasons With around 40 stores across Hong Kong, they tend to be smaller stores with a focus on premium imported products, the brand has recently started stocking products from British supermarket, Sainsbury’s. marketplacebyjasons.com

U Select

Malls The Landmark A five floor mall located in Central and adjoining the Mandarin Oriental, the mall is home to some of the world’s most exclusive and premium luxury brands. landmark.hk

The IFC Mall This midrange shopping mall located in Central close the Star ferry pier, the mall offers spectacular water views and a host of bars and restaurants, the Rooftop Gardens are open daytime and evening and are free to enjoy by all. ifc.com.hk

popular with locals and tourists alike. Elaborate displays are often set up at the entrance during festivals and public holidays. timessquare.com.hk

Elements This Kowloon shopping mall consists of five zones themed around the elements - metal, wood, water, fire and earth. It offers a fantastic range of international brands, a large selection of restaurants and an ice rink and what is currently the largest cinema in Hong Kong. elementshk.com

Pacific Place

U Select stocks fresh local produce as well as produce from British supermarket Tesco, a partner to the brand. Prices are often significantly cheaper than many other imported brands. uselect.com.hk

Located above Admiralty MTR station this luxury mall adjoins hotels including ShangriLa and Conrad. Home to many high class international brands. Also houses an upmarket cinema and a host of restaurants and cafes. pacificplace.com.hk

Oliver’s The Delicatessen

Times Square

An upmarket supermarket with a good selection of imported fruit and vegetables, meat and branded goods, located in Prince’s Building, Central. oliversthedeli.com.hk

Located in Causeway Bay, Times Square mall houses over 230 mid and upscale brands,

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health & beauty

FITNESS

Whether you want to join a gym or go for a swim, Hong Kong offers lots of ways to get in shape

Ballet, pilates and yoga Flex These stretch specialists offer barre, Xtend Barre, yoga and pilates as well as TRX, HIIT and pre/postnatal workouts. flexhk.com

Gravity Ballet Specialising in ballet classes for adults, whether you’re a beginner wanting to improve posture and tone or a pro hoping to perfect your pointe skills. gravityballet.com.hk

One Pilates Studio Private and group classes offered on mats or using Led reformers. The studio also runs gyrotonic sessions, which incorporate movement principles from yoga, dance, gymnastics, swimming and tai chi and a specially designed wooden machine. onepilatesstudio.com

Gecko Yoga The Clearwater Bay based studio offers yoga classes for men and women as well as prenatal classes and yoga therapy. geckoyoga.com

54 | Southside Family Guide

Traininers from Flex

Pure Yoga

Circuit 25

Aerial, ashtanga, hot, hatha and yin are only a fraction of the classes offered by Pure Yoga. All levels welcome; locations and classes across Hong Kong. pure-yoga.com

C25 offers over 20 different sessions a week of group personal circuit training with individual attention. Each full body workout comprises 25 minutes of strength and resistance exercise

Yoga For Life

Flexing at Flex

Professional teachers will put you through your yoga paces by coming to your home or workplace for the ultimate in convenient private lessons. yogaforlife.com.hk

Bootcamps ApeFit These “animal inspired” group workouts combine cardio, strength and core exercises into 60-minute sessions with yoga stretches to finish. All levels welcome; held at various outdoor locations across Hong Kong. facebook.com/apefithk

and 25 minutes of cardio, core and cool down.

Triathlon training, running and swimming for endurance programs also offered. All fitness levels welcome; times and locations (both indoors and out) across Hong Kong to suit all schedules. circuit25.com

CrossFit Typhoon Bring your fitness to the next level with CrossFit Typhoon’s CrossFit, CrossFit Lite or bootcamp sessions. The classes work towards improving your strength, speed, agility and power among other fitness domains with cardio, weights and stretching, and are accessible to all levels. crossfittyphoon.com

health & beauty

Fitness centres Classes and equipment under one roof Pure Fitness: pure-fitness.com Fitness First: fitnessfirst.com.hk Physical Fitness: physical-ppai.com.hk

GuavaPass Invest in a monthly GuavaPass and try out dozens of gyms and hundreds of classes including CrossFit, cycling, dance, martial arts and bootcamp. guavapass.com

Team sports

Yoga wheeling at Pure

Fit Eat In Think you have no time to train? Fit Eat In offers intense lunchtime classes every weekday at Hong Kong Park, Admiralty, and Sun Yat Sen Park, Sheung Wan. The sessions comprise 30 minutes of High Intensity Interval Training and then a nutritious organic meal from Supafood to go. Basic levels of fitness required. fiteatin.com

Outdoor Fitness This fun and friendly Sai Kung-based company will whip you into shape with outdoor bootcamp/TRX classes, involving easy-to-follow core, resistance and cardio exercises for all individual levels. Sessions are held during the week and on Saturday and include a bootcamp for beginners. outdoorfitness.hk

Primal Fit Outdoor boot camps utilising bodyweight exercises are designed to build muscle, burn calories and increase your cardio fitness as well as improve your flexibility and core strength.

Classes are every day at Tamar and Sun Yat Sen Parks. On Lamma Island private and one-on-one sessions also available. primalfit.com.hk

Spinning XYZ XYZ’s classes offer an intense workout with pumping music and strobe lights, free from

any distractions from the outside world. youarexyz.com

Swim, bike and run yourself fit Coaching 26 The club offers online and one-to-one coaching programmes in all disciplines for youth and adults. 26coaching.com

Hong Kong Dragons Triathlon Club A friendly club that brings together all levels from the complete novice to Kona qualifying champions.

Access offered to training programmes at various locations across Hong Kong. hktriclub.com

Most of the big private clubs field their own competitive and social sports teams.

Otherwise, contact the various associations to find a club or team you can join.

• Hong Kong Hockey Association: hockey.org.hk • Hong Kong Netball Association: netball.org.hk • Hong Kong Rugby Association: hkrugby.com • Hong Kong Football Association: hkfa.com • Hong Kong Tennis Association: tennishk.org; hkladiestennis.com

Events to get fit for Oxfam Trailwalker (aka the MacLehose): teams of four race to complete the 100 kilometres MacLehose Trail within 48 hours. oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk Green Power: large-scale hiking race along the Hong Kong Trail. 10, 25 and 50 kilometres. greenpower.org.hk Standard Chartered Marathon: this international event starts on Kowloon side and winds its way into the New Territories and Hong Kong Island.

10k, half or full marathon; 3 and 10 kilometres wheelchair races; youth dash and family run. hkmarathon.com

Tritons Triathlon Club While the club doesn’t organise official coaching, it encourages members of all levels to get together for weekly swims, cycle rides and runs and compete in races under the Tritons flag. tritonstriathlon.com Mother and daughter yoga at Gecko

Clean Half: 15 kilometres open water swim from Stanley to Deep Water Bay. Do it solo, with a friend or in a team of five. openwaterasia.com Spartan: challenging cross-country obstacle course. Muddy and fun. spartanrace.hk

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health & beauty

Hair and beauty

Look and feel like your most beautiful self at Hong Kong’s huge range of spas and salons Hair salons Paul Gerrard

Centr

Well established hair salon with a great reputation on Pottinger street. The international team also offer skincare, professional make up and well being services. The experience offered here is much like a visit to a high end salon back home. paulgerrard.com

al

DAZ Founder Darrin Usher believes a visit to DAZ is not just about getting great hair and great service, it is an experience to ignite the senses. The team have a great reputation among the expat community for cuts and colours. dazhk.com

Capelli Hair Salon

South Located in The Repulse Bay side arcade, this salon has all your bases covered including KeraStraight treatments, expert cutting, blow dry, highlights, colour corrections, perming and up-dos. Capelli Hair Salon also won Best Hair Salon in Southside Magazine’s 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards. capelli.com.hk

Tala's Hair & Beauty Boutique

Sai Kung

Located in Sai Kung, Tala’s Hair & Beauty Centre is owned and managed by Mojdeh Kazemi, a salon industry professional with over 30 years’ experience. As well as expert cuts and colours Tala's also offer a host of beauty treatments including facials, waxing, nail treatments and massage. Tala's also won Best Hair Salon in Sai Kung Magazine’s 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards. talashair.com

Brows and lashes Novalash NovaLash Signature Studio offers the highest quality lash extension services available from the US. Each stylist is trained and certified in performing the specialised and unique NovaLash technique that does not cause discomfort or damage to natural lashes. novalash.hk

Browhaus Browhaus offers diverse options for you to get your brows in shape. Choose from modern tweezing, classic threading techniques with

56 | Southside Family Guide

Book your style session with WeCut

option to ‘colour tweak’ your arches too. browhaus.com.hk

Hair on demand

Nails, spa and beauty

WeCut

Sense of Touch

What is it? Professional and affordable hair, makeup, facial and nail services on demand.

Popular day spa operator with six locations across Hong Kong including Central, Sai Kung, Repulse Bay and Cyberport. The spa offers massage, facials, nails, hair removal and its own line of skincare products. Opt for the popular “almost painless” Brazilian Wax which is popular among expats in the know. senseoftouch.com.hk

The Nail Library Located in a funky little shop on Po Hing Fong, the quirky interior in this funky little nail bar is reminiscent of a New York loft apartment. The Nail Library offers excellent pedicures and manicures with service and surroundings to match.

Beverages offered on arrival include champagne.

Book in advance. thenaillibrary.com

Rainbow Nails This popular salon in Central uses a combination of manicure machines and manicurists' professional techniques designed to perform “American Manicures” (similar to French but more subtle). rainbownails.com.hk

How does it work? Download the app from iTunes or Google Play to make a booking.

Enter the address and time, and choose a stylist. Wait for confirmation. You can also shop products at shop.wecut.asia When is the latest I can book? At least three hours in advance.

How much is it and how do I pay? Prices start at $190 for a blowdry to $41,800 for a full bridal makeup package. Payment is completed online once the booking is confirmed.

Can I request a specific person for the appointment? Yes. What’s the service area? Our services cover Hong Kong island, Kowloon, and New Territories, except the Islands district. info@wecut.asia

health & beauty

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clubs

Private clubs Hong Kong’s best membership clubs

M

embership clubs have existed in Hong Kong since colonial times, and many are still alive and kicking today. Whether you’re into sport, sailing or wining and dining, you’re sure to find one that rings your particular bell. A lot of the larger, more popular clubs have attractive recreational facilities but they also tend to be accompanied by a lengthy waiting list for places and come at a price. Alternatively, there are smaller ones with fewer facilities who offer a host of activities and the opportunity to network and meet like-minded people.

Aberdeen Boat Club As well as watersports – dinghy and keelboat sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, dragon boating, SUP, fishing and scuba diving – the Aberdeen Boat Club (ABC) offers land-based activities such as golf, karate and yoga.

Facilities: Jetty and pontoon moorings, junk, dinghy and keelboat hire, fitness centre, squash court, two heated swimming pools, basketball practice area, table tennis, table football, darts, snooker, library, playground. abclubhk.com

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The Aberdeen Boat Club

Aberdeen Marina Club Aberdeen Marina Club is one of the most polished clubs in Hong Kong. It offers seven restaurants, an amazing children’s playroom and laser-tag zone, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and various racquet sports as well as its own iceskating rink.

Facilities: In addition to the above, wet/dry berths, 10 banqueting venues, a fitness centre, bowling alley, tennis, squash and badminton courts, a mahjong/games room, golf simulator, table tennis, snooker, spa and beauty salon. aberdeenmarinaclub.com

Hong Kong Social Clubs • American Women’s Association: awa.org.hk • Australian Association of Hong Kong: ozhongkong.com • Jewish Women’s Association: jwa.org.hk • Italian Women’s Association: iwa.org.hk • Royal Geographical Society: rgshk.org.hk • St George's Society: stgeorgeshk.com • The HK St Andrew’s Society: standrewshk.org

Foreign Correspondents’ Club (FCC)

Hebe Haven Yacht Club

Cited as the most famous press club in the world, FFC Hong Kong has a rich past, dating back to 1943. It is housed in a beautiful, colonial building in Central and is still an important media hub that provides a neutral platform for an impressive selection of local and international speakers across a range of topics.

Facilities: Main bar, lounge, verandah restaurant, jazz bar, Chinese restaurant, private dining rooms, health club, quiet workroom. fcchk.org

This friendly Sai Kung-based club is ideal for boating, yacht racing and watersports enthusiasts, offering easy access to some of Hong Kong’s best sailing waters and beaches.

It actively promotes youth sailing at its Sail Training Centre and runs regular sailing courses for adults too. The club has a busy racing calendar, notably hosting an annual 24-hour charity dinghy race and Hong Kong’s biggest summer regatta, the Typhoon Series.

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clubs Facilities: marina with fully serviced alongside berths, swing moorings, hardstand and rack space and other boatyard facilities, indoor and alfresco wining and dining, event space.

Hong Kong Country Club Opened in 1962 to break down social barriers between residents of all nationalities and races, the Hong Kong Country Club’s membership system still reflects this cosmopolitan approach, with applications dependant on openings in the relevant nationality quota.

Facilities A lawn, swimming pool, putting green, health club, basketball, tennis, squash, snooker, bowling alley, golf simulator, teens’ room and jungle gym as well as six F&B outlets. countryclub.hk

ahead of the handover. Home of the Hong Kong Open since 1959, the waiting list for this exclusive golf club is said to be about 20 years.

Facilities: Nine-hole golf course (Deep Water Bay), three 18-hole golf courses (Fanling), coaching, pro shop, practice range, gym, pool, sauna and mahjong room.. hkgolfclub.org

Kowloon Cricket Club Originally formed as a cricket club in 1904, Kowloon Cricket Club (KCC) now offers other competitive sports such as football, lawn bowls, tennis, squash and field hockey. Ever-popular cricket still takes centre stage and the KCC often hosts international teams playing in the Hong Kong World Cricket Sixes as well as other major fixtures.

Facilities: Grass cricket pitch, outdoor pool, tenpin bowling alley, children’s playground, squash and tennis courts, fitness centre, food and beverage outlets; horse-racing boxes at Happy Valley and Sha Tin.

moorings, berths (Shelter Cove), restaurants; Kellett Island has four restaurants, a swimming pool, bowling alley, squash courts and hardstands. rhkyc.org.hk

The American Club Founded in 1925, this member-owned club offers a small taste of home to Americans (apparently the burgers are particularly good), though there are membership options for nonUS citizens as well.

Facilities: restaurants, tennis courts, squash courts, indoor/outdoor multi-purpose courts, rock-climbing wall, swimming pool, playzone and teen hangout, spa and ballroom; private box at Happy Valley racecourse. americanclubhk.com

Ladies Recreation Club

Hong Kong Cricket Club Established in 1851 in Chater Road, Central, the HKCC is the oldest cricket club in Asia. It had a pitch in Chater Gardens until 40 years ago, when it moved to Wong Nai Chung Gap. Facilities: Cricket, rugby, lawn bowls, tennis and squash, netball, spa, snooker, tenpin bowling alley, pool, golf simulator, gym, bridge, dance classes (from ballet to Scottish country), and dodgeball; boxes at Happy Valley and Sha Tin race courses. hkcc.org

Hong Kong Football Club Sports and recreation are the lifeblood of the HKFC and its fantastic facilities make it one of the best sports clubs in the region. While football (soccer) and rugby continue to be core sports, other sports include netball, field hockey, tennis, lawn bowls and squash, and also offers a good range of leisure facilities.

Facilities: Rugby/football pitch, indoor/outdoor lawn bowls, tennis and squash courts, sports hall, snooker, tenpin bowling alley, swimming pool, golf simulator, fitness centre, bars and restaurants, a library, meeting rooms and children’s playrooms. hkfc.com.hk

Hong Kong Golf Club Established in Happy Valley in 1889 by “13 golfing enthusiasts”, the Hong Kong Golf Club dropped the “Royal” from its name in 1996,

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When Louisa Coxon and friends wrote a letter to the acting colonial secretary asking “for a small piece of land for the purpose of health and recreation” in 1883, little did they know it would become one of the most sought-after sports and recreation clubs in Hong Kong. And on prime real estate too. Membership also open to men and children of all nationalities.

Facilities: tennis, badminton and squash courts, indoor and outdoor swimming pools with diving boards, library, fitness centre, fivestar spa, food and beverage outlets, and tenpin bowling. lrc.com.hk

Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club Founded in 1890, this is one of the largest yacht clubs in the world. It was the only Hong Kong club that kept the “Royal” in its title posthandover, although its Chinese name is simply the Hong Kong Yacht Club. Unsurprisingly, membership is contingent on an interest in rowing or sailing.

Facilities: Sailing, rowing, dragonboating,

The Hong Kong Club Established in 1846, the Hong Kong Club was set up by British merchants and civil servants as an exclusive gentlemen’s club. Its members were and are still to this day among the most influential people in the city including government officials and and senior local businessmen.

Facilities: A bowling alley bar, extensive library, cards room, billiards room, fitness centre, squash courts, function rooms, restaurants including a grill and a garden lounge, a barber’s shop and race box. thehongkongclub.hk

Options that won’t break the bank • Helena May A welcoming club for women (and associate males) of all nationalities and walks of life, the Helena May offers accommodation, dining facilities, a large English-language library, social and cultural activities. helenamay. comhelenamay.com • Victoria Recreation Club With two clubhouses: Deep Water Bay and Tai Mong Tsai in Sai Kung, the VRC focuses on boating of all descriptions and open-water swimming. victoriarecreationclub.com.hk

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marketplace

marketplace

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

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marketplace

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contacts

useful numbers

EMERGENCY SERVICES (police, ambulance, fire)

999

EMERGENCY SERVICES (police, ambulance, fire): 999 Marine: 2233 7999 CAR MECHANICS Auto Dynamics: 2858 7032 (Southside) Euro Prestige Motors Services: 2771 7557 (Northpoint) Kwong Hing Motor Works Ltd: 2791 4884 (Sai Kung) DRY CLEANING Beluga Dry Clean and Laundry: 2873 1484 Mak's Green Dry Clean & Laundry : 2335 5511 Stanley Dry Cleaning and Laundry: 2813 2062 ESTATE AGENTS Jones Lang LaSalle: 2116 8588 Savills (Hong Kong) Limited: 2842 4400 Colliers International: 2828 9888

PHONE DIRECTORY ENQUIRIES English: 1081 Chinese: 1083 Overseas IDD: 10010

GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS Agriculture & Fisheries (call centre): 1823 Health Department: 2961 8989 Southern District Council: 2814 5800 Sai Kung District Council: 3740 5200 Central & Western District Council: 2852 3549

1878 200

HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD Visitor hotline: 2508 1234 HOSPITALS Public Grantham Hospital, 125 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, 2518 2111 Queen Mary Hospital, 102 Pok Fu Lam Road, Pok Fu Lam, 2255 3838 Tung Wah Hospital, 12 Po Yan Street, Sheung Wan, 2959 7500 Tseung Kwan O Hospital, 2 Po Ning Ln, Tseung Kwan O, 2208 0111 Private Gleneagles Hospital, 1 Nam Fung Path, Wong Chuk Hang, 3153 9000 Canossa Hospital (Caritas), 1 Old Peak Road, Mid-Levels, 2522 2181 Hong Kong Adventist Hospital, 40 Stubbs Road, Happy Valley, 3651 8888 Matilda International Hospital, 41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak, Hong Kong, 2849 0111 Prince of Wales Hospital, 30-32 Ngan Shing St, Sha Tin, 3505 2211 KENNELS Royal Pets: Dog Dayz:

6314 9887 2987 1597 (Sai Kung)

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MAN WITH A VAN Easy Van: 3701 3701 GoGoVan: 3590 3399 PEST & TERMITE CONTROL Asia Pest Control: 2523 8855 Supreme Pest Control: 2814 7211

ELECTRICIANS/ HANDYMEN Dr Fix it all: 2525 0055 Speedy Drainage Cleansing: 3625 6064 Winkle Workshop: 2554 1269

HONG KONG OBSERVATORY Website: hko.gov.hk General enquiries: 2926 8200 Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal Enquiries:

LOCKSMITH Fai Kee Lock and Key Services: 2552 3227 Wing Hung Locksmith: 2893 6795

PLUMBERS Ah Choy Chan: 2555 2030 Ocean Electric and Drainage Works:

2832 9449

POLICE DEPARTMENTS Website: police.gov.hk Police hotline: 2527 7177 Stanley Police Station: 3661 1616 Happy Valley Police Station: 3661 1610 Sai Kung Police Station: 3661 1630 POST OFFICE Hong Kong Post hotline:

2921 2222

TRANSPORT Hong Kong International Airport, general enquiries: MTR Train Service & Airport Express, 24-hr hotline: Taxis: 2804 2450 Taxi Lost and Found 24hr hotline: 1872 920

2181 8888 2881 8888

UTILITIES China Light & Power, 24hr hotline: 2728 8333 Towngas, 24hr hotline: 2880 6999 Water Supplies Department, customer services hotline:

2824 5000

VETS Pets Central (North Point): 2811 8907, Pets Central (Mong Kok): 2309 2139, Pets Central (Sai Kung): 2792 0833, Pets Central (Tseung Kwan O): 2244 6684 Hong Kong Animal Hospital, Aberdeen: 2553 6003 Home Vet: 9860 5522 Sai Kung Animal Hospital: 2792 2206 NANNIES & DOMESTIC HELPERS Naturally Nanny: 9650 4976,naturallynanny.com Rent-a-mum: 2523 4868,rent-a-mum.com HelperChoice: 3461 9944,helperchoice.com

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