Mid-levels June 2018

FAMILY | FOOD | SUMMER CAMPS | BEACHES

Mid-levels hongkongliving.com

magazine

June 2018

in the soup with

douglas young ENTER THE DRAGONS: your guide to the festival

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER CAMPS

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Mid-levels The really useful magazine

magazine

June 2018

4 PEOPLE

28 OUTDOORS

Mid-levels social life

32 EDUCATION

The best summer camps in the city

11 GIVEAWAYS

40 BIG DAY OUT

Tara Smith explores Luk Wu Country Trail Waterfalls

Fab things to win

12 MUST HAVE TO BUY Make Papa proud with these Father’s Day gifts

44 PETS

Ask Dr. Pauline. Plus Walkies

14 NEWS

48 ZIM CITY

Paul Zimmerman on the honest debate about land

Really local news

16 LOCAL

8

Dragon Boat Fiesta

7 THE PLANNER A round-up of happenings in June

35

42

Out with the old in with the new: the revitalised Central Police Station

18 COVER STORY

Douglas Young: founder of G.O.D.

22 DINING

Best beach bars plus nibbles

23

12

29 18 “DON’T LET YESTERDAY TAKE UP TOO MUCH OF TODAY.” – WILL ROGERS

hongkongliving.com | 3

editor’s letter

Mid-levels

S

ummer is here and the city is heating up. Our cover star Douglas Young, the founder of G.O.D., talks to us about cultural appropriation, business and life in Mid-levels.

This month we’re treated to yet another public holiday – June 18 sees this year’s Dragon Boat Festival. If you’re not taking advantage of a long weekend away, get involved in all the action on and off the water with our Dragon Boat guide on page 28.

After all that paddling you’ll need to cool down, so we’ve got the perfect cure for you with our round-up of the best beach bars in Hong Kong (page 22).

Looking ahead, school’s almost out – time to get planning for the summer holidays. If you’ve got kids we’re here to help. Turn to page 32 for our biggest-ever guide to summer camps. Happy planning, and have a great month!

magazine

Editorial

Managing editor Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Sub-editor Kay Ross, kay@hongkongliving.com Media trainee Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Media management trainee Julianne Dionisio, julianne@hongkongliving.com

Design

Design manager Cindy Suen, cindy@hongkongliving.com Graphic designer Sonia Khatwani, sonia@hongkongliving.com Alvin Cheng, alvin@hongkongliving.com

Sales & Marketing

Sales director Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Sales & Marketing executive Isamonia Chui, isamonia@hongkongliving.com Corrie Tang, corrie@hongkongliving.com Johnny Wong, johnny@hongkongliving.com

If you have a Mid-levels story I’d love to hear it. Email me at gemma@hongkongliving.com

Accounting

Assistant operations manager Charles Lau, charles@hongkongliving.com

Digital

Digital editor Emily Finch, emily@hongkongliving.com

contributors

Publisher

Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com

Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong

Amelia Sewell

Joshua Roberts

…with a background in education consultancy, specialising in UK boarding schools, Amelia is the Education Editor for Hong Kong Living. She moved from London to Hong Kong four years ago. She loves P.G. Wodehouse and hates celery. She lives in Midlevels with her husband and toddler.

...is a designer, writer, editor and sometimes academic who moved to Hong Kong in 2006.

Obsessed with all things related to publishing and printing, when not acquiring way too many books he is often on an endless quest to find the best yuan yang (coffee mixed with tea) in the city.

Tara Smyth ...wrote this month’s Big Day Out story. Tara is Sai Kung’s local Scout leader and runs photography company Nitty Gritty Images. Visit facebook. com/nittygrittyimages

Want to write for Mid-levels Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 2 | hongkongliving.com

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

HONG KONG hongkongliving.com Mid-levels 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. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Mid-levels Magazine cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or pubishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

hongkongliving.com | 3

people Mid-levels snaps

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have your say AIA Vitality: District race

QUESTION OF THE MONTH “What do you like most about Mid-levels?”

The little lanes that you can explore.

I can play hide and seek in the playground. I can also walk to my preschool.

- Martigne & Darcy

It’s very quiet. I can sleep well at night.

- Ksenia

A lot quieter than most places in Hong Kong.

- Brian

Diversity that I see during night time.

Nightlife. There’s a good concentration of good bars and restaurants

- Yanni & Charlie hongkongliving.com | 5

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what's on

y r Dia s e t da

JUN 18

Dragon Boat Races Join the party in Stanley for one of the world’s largest and most famous Dragon Boat Races, with around 200 local and international teams. With beer tents and suncream stalls set up around the area, settle yourself in for the day. 8am-5pm, Stanley Main Beach

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what's on UNTIL JUN 10

Jane Lee: Red States The first solo exhibition in Hong Kong by this acclaimed Singaporean artist.

Free. Pao Galleries, Hong Kong Arts Centre, 2 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, 2582 0200, hkac.org.hk

Evolution Asia Yoga Conference With 160 classes, workshops and events, there’s something for all levels, bodies and minds. Register in advance for the classes. Tickets from $800 (single-session pass). 8am-8pm, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, asiayogaconference.com

JUNE 7-10

UNTIL JUN 10 EVITA

Don’t cry! Catch this exhilarating Broadway classic in its final few days in Hong Kong. $445-$1,045. Tue-Fri 7.45pm; Sat 2pm & 7.45pm; Sun 1pm & 6pm, Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wan Chai, 2922 8288, hkticketing.com.hk

JUN 1-2

Hong Kong Rum Festival Join this rum-tastic event to taste, evaluate and savour some of the best rums on the Asian market. $150. 12noon-8pm, The Loop, 33 Wellington Street, Central, 6075 8302, facebook.com/pg/rumfestivalhongkong

JUN 1-3

Tabby McTat A musical that’s PURRRR-fect for the whole family, with stories of friendship and loyalty — and cats! $195-$435 Fri, 5pm; Sat and Sun, 11am, 2pm & 4:30pm. Drama Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 2922 8288. hkticketing.com.hk

JUN 1-5

Anne Fong Braillard at Mandarin Oriental Gong sound therapist and reiki master Anne Braillard is offering a choice of three exclusive experiences: reiki therapy, gong sound therapy and a reiki-and-gong-sound combo therapy.

Prices start at $1,500. Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road Central, 2825 4850, jascheung@mohg.com

JUN 2

Social Room presents: Third-anniversary party This art and musical hub is celebrating its third anniversary by welcoming renowned Spanish DJ Eduardo de la Calle to the stage. 11pm-6am,

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3/F, Won Hing Building, 74-78 Stanley Street, Central, 2915 0373, facebook.com/pg/ socialroomhk

JUN 2

Anote’s Ark Film Screening & Panel Discussion Watch Anote’s Ark, a documentary selected by the Sundance Film Festival 2018, and hear from panelists about the issues. $160. 2-4.30pm, 29/F, 40-44 Wyndham Street, Central, 2117 0415, jacadatravel.com

JUN 3

Yoga class at Pier 10 Does your dog face downward? Free admission.

8.30-9.30am, Pier 10 Central Pier, 2913 7510, yogacommunity.org

JUN 4

Summer Holiday Shopping Fair Browse hundreds of stalls selling unique and wantable products, and choose gifts for your friends and family, or splash out on yourself! Free admission. 10am-7pm, Grand Ballroom, Conrad Hong Kong, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, prestigefairs.hk

JUN 5

PolyU Fashion Show 2018 Twenty graduating students of ITC’s BA (Hons) Scheme in Fashion & Textiles proudly showcase 120 outfits they’ve created. 2-2.45pm. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, 2766 6500, polyu.edu.hk

JUN 5

World Environment Day Take a moment to appreciate the world we live in!

what's on JUN 7

Slow Time to Sharpen the Mind Sebastian Droesler and Graham Bradshaw explain how our brains age and what you can do to combat the signs of dementia. $300 at the door or $250 in advance, online at bit.ly/inspirewellnesshk Choose from 10am12noon or 6.30-8.30pm, Alive Wellness, 602, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central, 2541 8600, alivewellness.hk

Editor's pick

The Bollands in Hong Kong This talented duo plays soft piano and guitar music. $120. 9pm-midnight, Unit 20D, 64 Victoria Road, Kennedy Town, 5615 9379, facebook.com/thebollands

JUNE 15

JUN 8

Runway 2018: the Hive Studios x Redress A celebration of fashion’s newest movers and shakers, in collaboration with Redress, a local environmental organisation working to reduce textile waste in the fashion industry. Doors open at 6:30pm and show begins at 8pm. $100-$300. Cheung Hing Industrial Building, Smithfield Road, Kennedy Town, 2817 8199, thehivestudios.com.hk

JUN 9

Hong Kong Westlife: Stamp it!

Local artist Victor Law leads a cultural and art walk exploring the traditional craft of stampmaking on Man Wa Lane, Sheung Wan. Free.

11am-12.30pm, Man Wa Lane (Chop Alley), Sheung Wan, 2213 6602, hoteljen.com

JUN 9

Road to Ultra 2018 Expect some huge acts and a buzzing atmosphere at this raving music event.

Tickets from $1,080. AsiaWorld-Expo, Chek Lap Kok, hongkong.roadtoultra.com

JUN 9

World Gin Day at Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour A day dedicated entirely to all things gin. $550. 5-6.30pm, Shop B31A, First Basement, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, ticketflap.com/world-gin-day

JUN 10

Chinmaya Carnival Celebrate India’s culture and customs through interactive games, entertainment, storytelling, vegetarian food and free yoga sessions. 1-6pm, Central Harbourfront Event Space, 9642 4540, facebook.com/ChinmayaHongKong

JUN 16-17

Father’s Day Brunch Free food for the kids and free beer, house wine, Prosecco and Champagne for dad. This all-youcan-eat four-hour brunch is a great way to spend fathers day! 12noon-4pm. G/F, California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Central, 2344 0005, ciaochow.com.hk

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what's on JUN 17

Father’s Day See page 12 for fabulous gift ideas.

JUN 20

Wine’d Down Wednesday: Welcome to St. Tropez

The 14th Sheko Challenge Take the 2.2K Sheko Challenge Swim, or team up with friends to run or paddle (or both) in the Triathlon. Then relax at the after-party with beach water polo, a barbeque and DJ-spun music. 2pm, Big Wave Bay Beach, Shek O, 3615 8592.

Register online at raceresults.com.hk/event/89

JUL 7

Cocktail bar and restaurant The Envoy hosts a happy hour with a twist! How about a bottle of vivacious St. Tropez pink wine? 12noon-8pm, 3/F, The Pottinger Hong Kong, 74 Queen’s Road Central, Central, 2169 3311, theenvoy.hk

JUN 22-24

JUN 23

JUN 30

Race down to the waterfront for all the noisy action. Bring the family and friends for live music, great grub from a fleet of food trucks, and activities and entertainment for kids. Free entry.

Victoria Harbour, Central Waterfront, Tsim Sha Tsui, discoverhongkong.com

Free-flow food and house music, anyone? $588 (+10% service charge). 12noon-4.30pm, 48 Peel Street, Central, 2880 0248, lavache.com.hk

Remember Hodor from Game of Thrones? Well, he’s a DJ (aka Kristian Nairn), and he’s playing at Pacha in Macau. $200. 11pm-very late, Macau Estr. Flor de Lotus, Studio City Macau, +853 8865 6699, pachamacau.com

Dragon Boat Carnival

Le Disco Brunch

Rave of Thrones

JUL 9-12 Rise 2018

Meet people from some of the world’s biggest companies and most exciting startups as they share their stories at this high-powered networking and learning event. US$680.

9am-5pm, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, 2582 8888, riseconf.com

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what's on

BOOK NOW JUL 7

The 14th Sheko Challenge Take the 2.2 K Sheko Challenge Swim, or team up with friends to run or paddle (or both) in the Triathlon. Then relax at the after-party with beach water polo, a barbeque and DJ-spun music. 2pm, Big Wave Bay Beach, Shek O, 3615 8592. Register online at raceresults.com.hk/event/89

JUL 9-12 Rise 2018

Meet people from some of the world’s biggest companies and most exciting startups as they share their stories at this high-powered networking and learning event. US$680.

9am-5pm, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, 2582 8888, riseconf.com

Want to share your event with our readers? Email editorial@hongkongliving.com.

GIVEAWAYS

win at hongkongliving.com

Liv Art

Asia Pacific Adventure

LivArt will take your child’s sketches, drawings, photos and other elements and turn them into beautiful, customised clothing, art books, digital prints and more. Your child’s work is their inspiration! Channel your child’s inner creativity into a truly personal gift or keepsake. liv-art.com We’re happy to give away three unique cushion covers that will be designed by your child, worth $450 each!

Specialising in outdoor learning for over 15 years, Asia Pacific Adventure knows how to make the most out of a Hong Kong summer. Programmes around the coastlines of Hong Kong run from June 15 to August 3 and include kayaking, snorkeling and gorge-walking. Contact 2792 7160, summer@apa.co or register at summer.asiapacificadventure.com We’re offering one week-long course for a child aged 7-15, valued at $2,680.

Mochy Kid

FAUST International

Founded in 2013, Mochy Kid creates play experiences for young creators aged three or older. Their DIY STEM & STREAM (Science, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, Art & Mathematics) activity kits help children understand the theories behind everyday life.

Mochy Kid Picasso Doodling Robot shakes and spins, allowing your child to create spectacular patterns without using their hands. www.mochykid.com We’re happy to give away a Mochy Kid Picasso Doodling Robot and a Unicorn Monogram Storage Case.

Faust International, founded in 1999, provides challenging and creative workshops for young people, introducing them into the world of theatre and the performing arts. The week-long summer theatre programmes aim to empower children through drama and performance skills.

Suitable for children aged three to 14. faustworld.com.hk We’re happy to give away one free place at one of Faust’s Summer Programmes between June 25 and August 24, valued at $2,980!

Subscribe to our e-newsletter to get all our giveaways delivered straight to your inbox: hongkongliving.com hongkongliving.com | 11

must have this month Ermenegildo Zegna suit Bespoke starting at $12,980 from La Sartoria 7F, 40-44 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan lasartoriaco.com

Giobagnara billiard case $8,950 from Tree 28/F, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau tree.com.hk

Vitale Barberis Canonico shirt Bespoke starting at $8,980 from La Sartoria 7F, 40-44 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan lasartoriaco.com

Papa don’t preach Father’s Day gifts to rock your dad’s world

Uni cufflinks $1,200 from Christofle 117, Prince’s Building, Central store.christofle.com

Morsø BEL lamp $1,412 from Everything Under the Sun everythingunderthesun.com.hk

Philips s7720 $2,498 from Fortress G/F, Yu Sung Boon Building, 107-111 Des Voeux Road Central fortress.com.hk

Delonghi Ecam 23120 $6,888 from Fortress G/F, Yu Sung Boon Building, 107-111 Des Voeux Road Central fortress.com.hk

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must have this month Lion Rock Press Father’s Day card $25 from Lion Rock Press thelionrockpress.com

The Return: Fathers, Sons and the Land In Between by Hisham Matar $160 from Bookazine 326-328, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central bookazine.com.hk Gloster Bells side table $5,826 from Everything Under the Sun everythingunderthesun.com.hk

Papa, please get the moon for me (board book) by Eric Carle $110 from Bookazine 326-328, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central bookazine.com.hk

Turms red beechwood box with shoe-care accessories kit US$1,920 from Artemest artemest.com

Classic cocktail set $490 from Vinoble vinoble.hk

Glider rocking chair $8,950 from Tree 28/F, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau tree.com.hk

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news

Wartime bomb discovery puts Wan Chai on lockdown

Hong Kong Bankers Club lease will not be renewed The Hong Kong Bankers Club, located on the 43rd and 44th floors of Gloucester Tower in Central will not have its current lease renewed when it expires in October 2020. A long-time popular meeting place for lawyers, bankers and accountants, it has been operating from the location since its opening in 1981. Developers have plans to replace the club with a high-end restaurant. The club which offers fantastic sea views, has a network of reciprocal clubs across Asia, including American Club Beijing and The Kobe Club in Japan. Membership is usually offered to staff as part of a compensation package. Plans for a new location have not been confirmed.

A 450 kg bomb from World War II was discovered on May 10 while work was being carried out on the Shatin-to-Central MTR line.

Residents and visitors from nearby hotels and apartments were evacuated, and roads and business in the area remained closed until

the bomb had been properly defused and removed. This was the third bomb to be found in the area so far this year, with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau of the Hong Kong Police successfully disarming them in around 24 to 26 hours.

$1.7 million drug raid on a flat near Lan Kwai Fong Two men were arrested after a controlled delivery was carried out to a flat on Peel Street in Central, in close proximity to Lan Kwai Fong. They were a local resident and an Australian aged 30 and 58. Drugs including Ice, Cocaine, Ecstasy and the date-rape drug

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gamma-Butyrolactone, with a total street value of $1.7 million, were also seized. This was the second raid in the past month that has involved the date-rape drug. If you are visit the party district anytime soon, please keep a close eye on your drinks.

Two elderly women caught running a call centre for sex workers Two elderly sisters aged 60 and 78 were arrested for allegedly running a 24-hour call centre controlling sex workers from Russia, Eastern Europe and South America. The 1,000 sq ft apartment in Tavistock II on Tregunter Path was raided by police on May 15. During the raid, evidence including $10 million in cash, a car and share certificates were seized. It is believed that the younger sister was in charge of the prostitution ring, while the older sister worked as her assistant. Arrested along with the two women were three suspected prostitutes from Venezuela and Russia.

news

Hong Kong takes eighth place in City Nature Challenge

A Barking Deer

Hong Kong ranked in eighth place in the City Nature Challenge this year, competing with 67 cities including New York City and Dallas. People

around the globe participated by documenting different plants and wildlife in their city.

Participants in Hong Kong found almost 3,000

different species, with plants and insects making up a large percentage. In total, 755 people took part in observing different species around the city.

hongkongliving.com | 15

local

Second Act The revitalised Central Police Station promises a lively mix of the best in heritage, arts and lifestyle, reports Joshua Roberts

A

t last uncovered from a mass of green mesh and bamboo scaffolding, and after many years of work, the former Central Police Station has re-emerged. The project has been long in the making and has faced a few challenges, and the outcome is a welcome surprise. The over-170-yearold complex, occupying an entire block in Central, consists of several buildings, including three declared monuments.

The original buildings have been faithfully conserved and revitalised, and are now complemented with two new additions. Together the complex will operate as the Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts (Tai Kwun, the colloquial name for the compound, means “big station� in Cantonese). It will feature restaurants, retail spaces and, crucially, three complementary but distinct cultural programmes.

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Haven of Heritage and Arts The first is the heritage component, which will focus on both the tangible and intangible elements of the historical site. These aspects are deftly explored in the inaugural exhibition, 100 Faces of Tai Kwun, featuring collected oral histories and interactive multimedia exhibits sharing the stories of those who experienced the place first-hand.

Additionally scattered across the grounds are eight heritage storytelling spaces that allow visitors to experience what daily life was like inside the walls of Tai Kwun. These spaces have been painstakingly preserved, often roomby-room, creating a truly memorable experience. The hot, cramped conserved cells, for example, have been augmented with projected installations that recreate the sounds and images of Victoria Prison, resulting in an immersive, if at times unsettling, environment.

Old and new meet sensitively

local

Heads of Arts, Heritage, Performing Arts and Director: Tobias Berger, Winnie Yeung, Eddy Zee, Timothy Calnin

Pamphlets for self-guided tours and audio guides are available via an app.

The contemporary arts programme is to be housed in two impressive new structures designed by the Swiss architects Herzog and de Meuron.

Building on their experience with the revitalisation of the Bankside Power Station for the Tate Modern in London, the designers have created a pair of sleek metal-clad volumes that hover above the prison yard. These offer 1,500 square metres of gallery space to showcase a planned six to eight exhibitions annually. According to Head of Arts, Tobias Berger, Tai Kwun Contemporary’s mission as a non-profit, non-collecting institution will focus primarily on spotlighting artists from Hong Kong and the region, and will work collaboratively with international groups to create exhibits tailored for the distinctive nature of the site.

Finally, an ambitious performing arts programme will take advantage of a stunning new auditorium and existing outdoor space as performance venues for dance, film, music and theatre. Eddy Zee, Head of Performing Arts, notes the programme and venues will be an exceptional opportunity to present new and innovative performances that engage and inspire audiences. A stimulating theatre season this summer will feature acclaimed productions from Hong Kong and around the globe.

This fall will feature a dance season followed by a series of special events in December. Throughout the year,

the schedule will include free musical performances and film screenings, enhanced by special programmes in collaboration with various cultural organisations. This June and July, in partnership with HKIFF Cine Fan, a curated selection of films focuses on the theme of law and order. Highlights include the Fritz Lang classic M, John Woo’s The Killer and William Friedkin’s The French Connection.

Cultural Jewel What is most encouraging about Tai Kwun is its potential to create a new public amenity in one of the densest parts of the city. The easy access from Hollywood Road, and even easier access from the Mid-levels escalator via a new connecting ramp, open up a whole realm of new possibilities for social interaction and public enjoyment.

How about taking in a concert or watching a film outdoors under the open sky in Central? The compound also promises to be a perfect place to sit and have lunch, or just relax for a moment of peace on a hectic weekday, then return on the weekend for an exhibition, and come again at Christmas or CNY for a special seasonal event.

The most pleasantly ironic aspect of Tai Kwun is that the site, once literally a prison and police station – meant by nature and design to be contained and prohibitive – has been transformed into a place so open and embracing. Now, Tai Kwun looks poised to be a welcome addition to Hong Kong’s public cultural institutions and spaces. M Find them at: Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts 10 Hollywood Road, Central 11am-11pm daily taikwun.hk/en/ Opening 29 May 2018

Dramatic sculptural staircase at the entrance to the new contemporary galleries

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cover story

in the soup with

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cover story

h DOUGLAS YOUNG

Meet the founder of G.O.D. Cultural appropriation? I’m all for it. It’s my life’s work.

“Delay no more” is the motto of Hong Kong.

Everybody knows what it is, and everybody says it all over the place. And, also, nobody likes to be late.

The internet is killing boring stores. But we are seeing growth. I think it is because people are starting to value things that are unique.

Things that you can’t find elsewhere.

G.O.D. is not like other shops. We design and manufacture our own things. Everything we sell has a Hong Kong heart, soul and humour. And you won’t find it elsewhere.

I believe retail is about newness, about surprise. People don’t want rationality. They want: “Wow!” I like to provoke as an artist, and I like to make people smile. And I love to celebrate Hong Kong’s unique culture.

Inspiration comes from anywhere. But whenever I do something just because it will sell, it never works.

I have a lot of issues and sometimes I think I should try to solve them. But I need them for work.

Oscar Wilde was correct: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”

My life partner is also my business partner.

I met Ben when I returned to Hong Kong in 1991. We’ve now been together for 25 years.

We started this company (G.O.D) together and we’re living together.

My parents knew I was gay from early on and were understanding. I think that if I had a been required to hide it and be dishonest, my lifestyle would be quite different… possibly promiscuous… probably less successful.

My parents’ support has been key to succeeding as a creator.

Ben is very different to me. We balance each other. It can’t all be all idealism. You need one foot in the rational world and one foot in chaos.

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cover story

Douglas Young 101  Born 1965  1971: First year at Diocesan Preparatory School / Diocesan Boys’ School  1975: My parents separated after 10 years of marriage  1976: Visited the United States for the first time when I attended summer school in Carmel, California  1979: Started boarding school in the UK (followed by the University of Sheffield) and experienced culture shock and emancipation  1980: Lost my virginity  1981: My leg was broken when I was hit by a car while attending boarding school in the UK. It still hurts to this day.  Mid 80’s: Started to really appreciate the movies of Stanley Kubrick – my first one was 2001 Space Odyssey  1989: Bought my first classic car, a 1964 Porsche 356, which spawned an obsession.

Today I own ~20 cars that are mostly classics  1994: Met G.O.D. co-founder and life partner, Benjamin Lau  1995: Failed at a bunch of architecture projects, which made me realise that in order to do the design work and be creative in the way that I wanted to, I could not pursue architecture in Hong Kong. That was the first spark for starting G.O.D. Tasty

Hong Kong’s art scene

 1996: G.O.D. opened its first retail store in Ap Lei Chau

Here’s the choice: Hong Kong can be the cultural hub or just a secondary city just within China. What is missing is a vision.

 1998: Opened G.O.D. at Leighton Centre in Causeway Bay. It was a huge moment for us to have 20,000+ sq ft of retail space in a prime location. After 15 glorious years, the landlord doubled our rent and we were sadly forced out. It became another Sasa.

Hong Kong has a degree of humanity and messiness we should recognize and be proud of. You can’t just build soulless shopping malls.

I’m on various government committees and boards and things that are desperately boring.

There’s a discrepancy between what the Government wants for Hong Kong and what it is.

The Victoria Prison renovation (Tai Kwun) is exciting. At last, Hong Kong is cherishing some of its history rather than obliterating it.

I paint. Sometimes it’s painting. Sometimes it’s just using my hands. For me painting is more of a process, I enjoy the process more than the final result. I don’t pretend to be among Hong Kong’s best. I do it for myself first.

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 2005: Started Directorships in various government advisory groups such as the Hong Kong Arts Centre, the Urban Renewal Authority, Hong Kong Ambassadors of Design, the Fringe Club, and The Mills Fabrica, to name a few.  2007: Arrested, along with 17 G.O.D. staff, over the production and selling of suspected triad-related tee shirts (14K). G.O.D. finally became a household name and we were front-page news for a week until we were dethroned by Edison Chen’s sex scandal.  2007: Opened a Facebook account, but didn’t become addicted until 2015  2008: Opened the ‘Delay No Mall’ in Causeway Bay. It closed soon after. It taught me an important lesson about concentrating and focusing on doing what I know – which

is design, not operating a mall. Many years later at a dinner party, I met Jony Ive of Apple fame, and he told me the same thing: Be focused, i.e., to do this, the key is to say ‘no’ to offers.  2008: Published my first book: MYHK, a personal photo collection of Hong Kong  2009: First collaboration with Starbucks – the first store that broke away from their usual style.

We received the personal approval from thenStarbucks CEO, Howard Schultz. The Duddell Street Starbucks was designed and decorated as a 1950s ‘bing sutt’ or Hong Kong style of café at that time. It still stands today and is now in many tourist guidebooks as a ‘must-visit’.  2010: Created ‘West Kowloon Walled City’, a site-specific installation for the Shenzhen Hong Kong Bi-City Biennale  2010-2014: Worked with Art Fair HK and eventually Art Basel on the design and creation of their Club Lounge at Art Basel. Each year, our theme was a strong Hong Kong concept, which was great to bring to this international audience.  2012: Opened our first international location in Singapore  2013: Submitted a proposal to then-Financial Secretary, John Tsang, for ideas on what to do with the Murray Building. My idea was to turn it into a hotel, which just opened for business this year.  2014: Read The Architecture of Happiness

by Alain de Botton, and it changed my life. I’ve read every one of his books since then and not only has it piqued my interest in philosophy, it has also made me behave and design differently. His books affect the way I see the world.  2015: Finally opened a store at the Hong Kong International Airport – a long-time company goal for us  2016: Was appointed to the Advisory Board of the current Chief Executive, Carrie Lam, advising on cultural issues.  2017: Awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters by Savannah College of Art & Design and was their commencement speaker for their Class of ’17.  2018: Interviewed by Mid-levels magazine!

cover story

History of G.O.D. in 8 cool products

Opportunities come in a flash. Somebody calls you, says “Something’s been cancelled, would you mind filling in the space?” Sure! I’m in.

Hong Kong needs to be the place where things happen. Fashion shows. Art fairs.

Inflatable ducks. Whatever. Let’s crank up the Fung Shui and get things happening.

Why I live in Mid-levels

G.O.D. x Maxim’s - ‘Bum Cakes’

Letterbox Bag in leather

Ben and I have lived in the same Mid-levels flat for 25 years. We looked at a million quite nice flats, but the minute I walked into our place I knew it was home.

It’s a 1950s kind of building with big balconies.

It’s kind of leafy, it’s quiet. Our dogs can go down for a walk, I can unleash them, let them run around. Not much of a view. But it’s peaceful and close to Bowen Road.

And I can park all my cars there, that’s very important of course.I am a huge car nut.

Chinese Collar Hooded Jacket,

‘Delay No More Free Hugs’ tee

I love old cars. They feel very mechanical and there’s work involved in getting them to move.

You have to get to know them. Coax them. It’s like trying to tame a wild horse. There is a sense of comradeship, and it’s just amazing.

I have several cars, including a 1975 RollsRoyce. It’s broken down on me a few times which is kind of very embarrassing, especially if you are going up Garden Road.

Mid Levels is due a resurgence. There are some really cool and idiosyncratic buildings that could be repurposed.

‘Yaumati’ superlight umbrella

‘Nathan Road’ cushion cover

I love the street markets, the way people dress, what they talk about. I love the smell, the action, the mess.

Everything about Hong Kong you can see in the street market.

Older, Wiser I’ve been lucky. That’s what being older has taught me.

I’m beginning my 50s now, it’s time to develop and grow more as a creative.

‘Red Lantern’ decorative lights

G.O.D. charm bracelet

Connect with Douglas Young on Facebook.

“My page is completely open… come and engage.”

I’m optimistic for the future, but it will be bumpy.

Are we going to see a more radical Douglas?

Yeah, I would like that.

hongkongliving.com | 21

dining

A view to dine for

Summer is heating up, so head to the coast and eat al fresco at one of these beachside beauties

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dining

Breeze Vibe: Breeze is the latest addition to join The Repulse Bay complex. The building has long been renowned as the perfect spot to relax in the evening sun and savour the luxurious atmosphere while sipping on an apéritif.

Go for: Carefully curated cocktails by the inhouse mixologist, and playful tapas with an inspired Asian twist.

109 Repulse Bay Road, therepulsebay.com

Airstream founder Wally Byam, is one of only 14 in the world. Other pieces of contemporary and modern street art are by renowned artists, including Tracey Emin.

G/F, Shop 114-115, The Pulse, Repulse Bay, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2515 1661, hotshot.hk

Ben’s Back beach bar Vibe: Located in Shek O village at the end of the Dragon’s Back trail, Ben’s Back is a Shek O institution for sundowners, sand, cold beer, reggae and good company. Colourful wall murals, reggae music, wooden stools and a brick bar lend a funky feel to the place. This place is also dog-friendly.

Go for: Post-hike cold brews and burgers at very reasonable prices. Open ThursdaySunday.

273 Shek O village, 2809 2268, facebook. com/BensBeachBar

Hotshot Vibe: Decked out with vintage surfboards, Hotshot is a surf-meets-skate beach restaurant that pays tribute to the Californian lifestyle of the 1960s. Located in the east wing of The Pulse, the restaurant overlooks Repulse Bay. Expect American classics such as cheeseburgers, lobster rolls and apple pie.

Go for: The bar, originally a rare eight-foot 1951 Silver Streak clipper trailer designed by

Coco Thai Vibe: Coco Thai is positioned just metres from the shoreline of Deep Water Bay. The vibe is relaxed, with a blend of carefully selected jazz, Brazilian and European music. The decor is minimalist, in keeping with a rusticyet-charming beachside cafe Thailand, and the food is authentic and delicious, as Chef Treerawong Pratumwan from the Bangkok Hotel has a team experienced in Siam dishes.

Go for: A relaxed, moonlit dinner date. Dine on authentic Thai curries while listening to the sound of the waves lapping the shore.

U/F, Beach Building Deep Water Bay, Island Road, Deep Water Bay, 2812 1826, toptables.com.hk

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NEWS! Mavericks closing down

Bathers

Limewood

Vibe: Bathers, formerly The Beach House, opened in June last year. It’s owned by husband-and-wife restaurateurs Chris Woodyard and Bronwyn Cheung of Woolly Pig Hong Kong. On the menu is seasonal, modern European fare, served in a relaxed, atmospheric, beach-side setting.

Go for: Make it to Lower Cheung Sha for breakfast, served from 9am to 11am at weekends. Feel smug as you feast on French toast or poached eggs while others are still snoozing, then indulge in a well-deserved day at the beach. Dinner is an elegant affair with steaks, pastas, an excellent wine selection and dessert classics such as Eton Mess.

32 Lower Cheung Sha Beach, Lantau, New Territories, 2504 4788, bathers.com.hk

Vibe: Located at The Pulse, Limewood, owned by restaurant group Maximal Concepts, has a relaxed, coastal vibe. Whitewash, driftwood tones create a beach-shack vibe that’s perfect for whiling away a Saturday afternoon over a pina colada or frozen margarita.

Go for: Seafood and meat barbecued to perfection. The menu fuses Southeast Asian, South American and Caribbean flavours.

The whole roasted line-caught sea bass with charred limes and chimichurri and fresh lobster salads are a must-try.

103-104 The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2866 8668, limewood.hk

The Boathouse Vibe: Overlooking Stanley Bay, The Boathouse has a family-friendly atmosphere. The emphasis is on seafood, with dishes such as jambalaya, seafood chowder and chilled prawns. Portions are also great for families, with many dishes large enough to share.

Go for: Dine on the balcony overlooking the bay, or have a drink in the comfy ground-floor bar, offering a selection of beers, wines and cocktails.

88 Stanley Main Street, Stanley, 2813 4467, cafedecogroup.com

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For a long time Mavericks has been a much-loved beach bar/restaurant amongst locals and visitors. Situated on Lantau Island, it offered a number of tasty dishes made from fresh local ingredients and amazing cocktails.

However, they have sadly closed down, the closure came as unexpected to the owners as it did to Maverick’s customers. The owners hope to find another place to set up and will keep customers updated through social media. “We’d like to say a massive heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s visited us, supported us and helped to make the Mavericks experience something so special and unique.

Mavericks is so much more than just a venue!” There are still a number of beach-side delights to go to this summer and we’ve picked out some of our favourites to share with you.

dining

hongkongliving.com | 25

dining

Cococabana Vibe: Cococabana offers sophisticated Mediterranean food on the shores of the South China Sea. In 1998, British-born chef and owner Jean Paul Gauci opened Cococabana on Lamma Island, later relocating to Deep Water Bay and then to Shek O beach. Cococabana has received praise worldwide, ranging from the Lonely Planet guidebook to celebrities including Chris Martin and Jeremy Clarkson. They claim their most recent location is their ‘very best location yet’, as it enjoys breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding hills of the country park.

Go for: Family-style Provencal food against a stunning backdrop. Fresh produce is imported from France and everything, including bread and chocolates, is produced in-house. Gauci places an emphasis on sustainability, with much of the meat and fish sourced organically and sustainably. G/F, Shek O Beach Building, Shek O Beach, 2812 2226, toptables.com.hk/coco/home.html

Tracking Mr. Softee • TST Star Ferry Pier • Central Ferry Piers • Stanley Main Street • Sai Kung Ferry Pier • Kowloon Park

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NIBBLES

News from the dining scene

Agave opens its second branch The ever-popular Mexican restaurant in Wan Chai has opened its doors on Hollywood Road. Agave is known for having the ‘damn best’ Margaritas and the largest selection of Tequila in Southeast Asia. Along with a perfectly served nacho platter shaped like an agave plant, to guarantee each chip has a healthy load of toppings. The new restaurant has a more sophisticated vibe with dark decor and artistic ceilings, the perfect place to indulge and enjoy. G/F, 26 Hollywood Road, Central, 2523 1988. epicurean.com.hk

Shake Shack opens in Hong Kong!

The American hotdog stand in Madison Square Park that won the hearts and mouths of everyone has opened its first branch in Hong Kong! It’s much-anticipated arrival excited many as they queued up ready to taste the true flavours of America. They have something for everyone, with vegetarian options and even a ‘Bag O-Bones’ for dogs.

Grab a bite at Shop 4018, Podium Level 4, ifc mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, 2522 5611. shakeshack.com.hk

The Sultan’s Table replaces Wagyu Lounge, Old Bailey Street The always-popular Wagyu Lounge on Old Bailey Street closed down in late April, leaving many party-goers a little lost for where to predrink. The bar/restaurant was well known for its espresso martinis and set-lunch deals. The venue is now home to The Sultan’s Table, which recently moved from its original location on Arbuthnot Road. While Wagyu Lounge is no longer around, the Wagyu branch at 60 Wyndham Street remains open. The Sultan’s Table, 7 Old Bailey Street, Central. thesultanstable.com Wagyu, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, 2525 8805. casteloconcepts.com

hongkongliving.com | 27

outdoors

Dragon boat Fiesta Your guide to all the action on June 18

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outdoors

Dragonboaters feeling festive

How to be a Dragon boat pro 10 tips from Hungarian Dragon's captain, Jonathan Csanyi-Fritz Don’t call it rowing. It’s paddling!

Joining the right team is everything. Some teams can be really competitive and all about winning. Hungarian Dragons, however, try to strike out the right balance between competitiveness and being social.

Finding teams is as simple as coming down to Stanley Beach on the weekend. Look out for teams who are training and approach them.

Or call the Stanley Dragon Boat Training Centre for team names and look them up online. Most people get advice from their co-workers who are already part of a team.

It’s cultural. Even though thundering roars from the crowd dominate the event, the beating of the drums is still a big part of the race. Another tradition is feasting upon a whole roasted pig at the after-party.

If you’ve decided to join, you need to commit. Attend every training session. You have to be ‘in the same boat’ with your team, figuratively and literally.

Training usually starts after the winter season, although some of the more committed teams paddle throughout the year. The

frequency of training can vary from once to twice a week and even more leading up to the main race. On top of this, dry training involves rigorous boot camps and circuit training.

The power doesn’t come from your arms or shoulders. Your thighs and glutes assist all the repetitive and intricate techniques of twisting your body, leaning down and reaching as far as you can.

The person in charge of timing sits at the front of the boat, while stronger and heavier paddlers sit at the back. They refer to this as the engine room. You want lighter people at the front so that the boat can be angled upwards; you don’t want it to be lopsided. Steersmen aren’t a big part of the team; they’re often just hired. Only two teams in Hong Kong have their own steersman.

There is full disclosure on a team member’s weight. The team leader will ask you about your weight to make sure they can balance out the boat. You’re simply not allowed to be shy about it.

Joining the team is not free of charge. You need to chip in financially as it’s expensive to rent the boats and enter races. The Hungarian Team has multiple sponsors.

The Legend behind the festival The Dragon boat festival, originally named ‘Tuen Ng Festival’, is celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month.

The legend behind the event is that a loyal official, Qu Yan of the Zhou dynasty, drowned himself in the Mi Lo River. His loyal followers attempted to find his body by rowing back and forth across the river whilst drumming away the bad spirits. Grains of rice were also scattered into the river to prevent the fish from eating Qu Yan.

Learn the lingo Paddles up! - Recheck your position, focus and get ready.

Power up! - Put more power into it.

Sometimes this spills onto the social aspects, when shots are passed around.

hongkongliving.com | 29

outdoors

Photo by Mo Schreck

JULIANNE DIONISIO SPENDS AN AFTERNOON WITH THE HUNGARIAN DRAGON BOAT TEAM

The Hungarian Dragons squad.

O

n a Saturday afternoon the paddlers from the Hungarian Dragon Boat team arrived one by one to meet me at a cafe on Stanley Main Street. When the table was filled up, I realised that the whole team was far more diverse than I had initially thought. Their current team leader, Jonathan Csanyi-Fritz, is originally from Canada but insists on being loyal to his Hungarian heritage.

He led our discussion about the sport, from its physical intensity, to unashamedly disclosing

your weight for the sake of balancing out the boat, to how fun the after-race social nights can be. After a lot of laughter and seeing the team members nod about each other’s comments, I thanked them for their time, but they insisted on hijacking me for the rest of the afternoon.

Before I knew it they’d plopped me on the boat as their drummer for the day. This gave me the chance to do some real investigative journalism. With a camera in one hand and a drumming stick in the other, I soared off.

The atmosphere was comical at first, with

joking conversations, but this soon turned into deafening shouts, counting and intense grunts.

We were going full-throttle and I held on for dear life. I could feel the power of the whole team, united and fierce. I sat quietly at the front attempting to stay on beat with the drum as the paddles cut through the water. It was hard to focus on what I was doing and not to be mesmerised by the team’s concentration. Each paddler was locked in their own space, carefully keeping to their technique step by step. M

Tips for spectators  Traffic can be really bad.  The beach will be crowded.  Get there an hour early, before the races start.  Bring water, sunglasses and a hat.  Or hire a junk to watch the race.

HUNGARIAN DRAGONS • Founding year: 2014

Photo by Mo Schreck

• Sponsors in 2018: Graphisoft, Wiseville Hungarian Wine Distributor, Olivos, Dacha Restaurant & Bar, The Corpag Group, RED: Blockchains for Humans

Team spirit

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• Highest rank to date: 10th place (out of 150) in the Sun Life Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships • Facebook: HungarianDragonsHK

outdoors

Power up!

Where to watch the races Sun Life Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships June 18, 8am–5pm Stanley Main Beach

Sha Tin Dragon Boat Races June 18, 8am-1pm Shing Mun River, Banyan Bridge to Sha Yin Bridge, Sha Tin

Tai Po Dragon Boat Races June 18, 8.30am-1pm Promenade at Tai Po Waterfront Park

Cheung Chau June 18, 10.30am-1pm Cheung Chau Typhoon Shelter

Sai Kung Dragon Boat Races June 18, 8am-2pm Sai Kung town Waterfront Dragon Boat Carnival June 22-24 Central Harbourfront

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education

Summer in the city

Get kids and teens out and about this summer with our guide to the best camps in the city

The great outdoors Asia Pacific Adventure For budding explorers aged 7-15, Asia Pacific Adventure offers week-long courses this summer.

Specialists in outdoor-learning, APA has designed a camp that travels around the Hong Kong coastline, with water-based programmes that include activities such as kayaking, snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding. summer.asiapacificadventure.com

Sunshine House With a jam-packed schedule of exploration and intrigue, students can look forward to beach adventures and insect hunts while learning about teamwork and building their vocabulary. For older children, there will also be a focus on developing personal confidence in preparation for primaryschool interviews. sunshinehouse.com.hk/

Hebe Haven Yacht Club Anyone with a love of the open seas will feel right at home at the Adventure Watersports Week, with a choice of activities on sailboats, motorboats, paddle boards and dinghies. The 10 weeks of courses, catering for 6-14-year-olds, also include beach games and Mini Olympics. Non-members welcome. hhyc.org.hk

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Ark Eden A summer in the great outdoors is on offer at Ark Eden’s farm in Mui Wo. Exploring the forest, hunting for treasure and cooking up feasts will keep even the most active minds occupied.

Taught through exploration and play, the camps, starting at the end of June, are suitable for students aged 5-11. arkedenonlantau.org

Outward Bound Not for the faint-hearted (or anyone under 15), this is course in the ancient art of bushcraft. Skills taught will include fire-lighting, natural navigation and crisis management. A Youth Sea programme teaches basic sailing theories and the transferable skills of leadership and problem-solving. outwardbound.org.hk/

Treasure Island Surf’s up! Starting in June and continuing until late August, Treasure Island Summer Surf Camp promises an unforgettable Hong Kong summer.

Suitable for surfers aged 5-16, of all levels and experience, these week-long day camps will also teach water skills, ocean safety and environmental awareness. treasureislandhk.com /education/ summer-surf-camp/

Trybe HK Energetic children don’t want to spend the summer with their two feet firmly on the ground.

Trybe HK offers a summer camp that will have them launching from beams and being suspended from the ceiling. With gymnastics, acrobatics, aerial and Parkour all available, this is about as active as it gets. Private lessons and small-group sessions are also available. trybehk.com

education Wakeboard Wakesurf Hong Kong On the shore of Tai Tam Harbour, a prime location for watersports, Wakeboard Wakesurf Hong Kong offers trips and lessons each day. They offer packages of four to eight lessons, with coaches who’ll ensure a safe and educational day on the water. wakeboardhongkong.com/home.html

Verm City At Verm City’s week-long Summer Camp courses, knowledgeable, experienced and enthusiastic rock-climbing coaches teach climbing, games and practical skills for adventurous risk-takers aged four to 15. vermcity.com

A-Team Edventures Limited Activity-packed water sports camps with surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing and slacklining, suitable for children aged eight to 18. The camps are held at beautiful Tai Long Sai Wan beach and run from June 11 to August 31.

Family adventure programmes are also available. ateamedventures.com/

Creative

SCAD

Shaping budding authors and keen young readers, the Elephant Community Press weeklong workshops aim to instil the foundations of storytelling and creative writing.

They run from June 19 to August 24 and are suitable for children aged four to 14. elephantcommunitypress.com/

SCAD’s summer courses are for creative secondary school students who are thinking ahead to university. The courses offer them the chance to experience the university’s approach to education and its extensive facilities and resources, all while developing their individual creative vision through exciting art and design assignments. Residential and non-residential workshops are open to those aged 14-19. scad.edu.hk

ActiveKids

ESF

A great option for the all-rounder who can’t decide, ActiveKids in Kennedy Town has all the bases covered. With fashion design courses, chess camps, dinosaur mysteries, cooking, coding and chess, this is the destination for variety. It’s all sure to keep 3-17-year-olds fascinated and out of trouble. activekidshk.com and thechessacademyhk.com

There will be no complaints about boredom this summer at the ESF Guardian Planet Adventures.

With four weeks of thrilling themes from superheroes to dragons, and wild animals to pirates, little people will have their imaginations captured as they use games, stories and drama to develop their interest in reading, writing and speaking. esf.org.hk/camps

Elephant Community Press

Performing arts Red Shoe Dance Jazz hands and pirouettes abound at this camp for dance-lovers. Building their skills in everything from classical ballet to Hip Hop and acro-dance to musical theatre, students will dance for two hours each day in a five-day course, learning different styles each time. Suitable for those aged six and above. Morning sessions are for those newer to dance, whilst the afternoons are for the more confident. redshoedance.com

Kids Gallery There’s something for everyone at Kids Gallery this summer, as they’re offering over 100 camps across the city, from Central to Yau Tong and Kowloon. Whether the theme is Peppa Pig, Frozen or Aladdin, children will take part in a variety of activities, including hip-hop, painting, ballet and magic. kidsgallery.com

Stage Right Summer Theatre is a chance for 4-11-year-olds to practise their talents on the stage. In a fun, five-day programme, students will write a script, improve their performance skills through games and teamwork, and work towards performing an original piece of theatre to friends and family. stagerighthk.com

Move for Life If you’re the proud owner of a ball of uncontrollable energy, this might be the course you’ve been looking for. The Summer Dance

hongkongliving.com | 33

education Camp in Pok Fu Lam promises to exhaust the little people in a lively and fun environment before sending them home for a well-earned sleep. One camp is for 2-5-year-olds, while the other is for 6-12-year-olds. Both involve a wide range of activities, including dancing, sport, indoor games, stories, free play and singing. moveforlife.asia/summer-program

Academy of Jazz Academy of Dance Combines the magical world of Disney with the joy of dance for a truly wonderful summer-camp experience from July 23 to 27. With Miss Ria, a former dancer for Disneyland in The Lion King, your child will have a fun-filled, imaginative and thrilling week of exploring different dance styles. academyofjazz.com/

Twinkle Dance Your aspiring dancers will love swaying and spinning their pointy toes and donning their mini custom-made tutus for a summer of ballet. Aimed at children aged six and up, these workshops not only teach ballet but also offer a chance for kids to choreograph their own masterpiece. twinkledance.com/

Academic That’s Mandarin For those with Mandarin on the brain, here’s a chance to head to Shanghai for a language summer camp. Aimed at children aged from seven to 17, the courses are two-week cycles offering a mixture of classroom lessons, challenging activities and cultural excursions. summercampschina.com

Science Workshop

STEMex

An invitation for mad scientists to immerse themselves in the world of STEM, from coding to robots, dinosaurs and app-making. With hands-on experiments based on topics such as ‘Xtreme Vehicles’ and ‘Journey into Our Bodies’, students will be knee-deep in tools and machines as they build their own robots. Based in Central and aimed at children aged from three to 13.

ScienceWorkshopHK.com

The sky’s the limit at this science-based summer camp, where scientific imaginations will run wild. Catering for children aged 4-14, this camp combines engineering, robotics and programming with unlimited creativity. Based in Tsim Sha Tsui and Siu Sai Wan, this STEM course has everything from rockets to Minecraft as children learn how to solve problems innovatively. stemex.org

HK ETS Education Centre If your child has to spend the summer with their nose buried in the books, it helps for them to have some company. One of ETS’s courses will help them make friends while they brush up on their iGCSE, IB or A Levels subjects. Choose from courses for students in Year 7 or upwards, and beginners’ courses in French and Spanish. Help is also at hand for personal statement writing and IELTS courses. hkets.net/

IMS Looking for Mandarin or English immersion for your children? IMS has got you covered. Other course options are Maths and ‘Read & Write’, all taught in the Montessori style. Courses are two weeks long over July and August, with halfday and full-day programmes available at two campuses: South Horizons (ages three-nine) and Mid-levels (ages three-six). ims.edu.hk/imssummer-programme-2018

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education Harbour School You might detect a fishy theme for The Harbour School’s summer camp. The Fully Immersive Scholar’s Holiday (F.I.S.H.) courses run from July 3 to August 17. Students aged 5-18 can join the team in the Marine Science Centre as they study marine ecosystems and take part in projects linked to real-world issues. To enhance the experience, there’s even a 50-foot sailboat. ths.edu.hk/summer-school

The International Montessori School The International Montessori School’s annual Summer Programme is open to all children in Hong Kong. They can choose from English Immersion, Mandarin Immersion, Reading, Writing and Mathematics. Each programme brings knowledge and experience to the classroom with language-rich activities, including arts and crafts, drama, stories and even cooking rice. ims.edu.hk/

Southside Mandarin Southside Mandarin offers a range of classes for children aged 17 months to 12 years. Using a variety of methods, from flash cards to cultural fun in the form of Chinese dancing, skilled teachers help children improve their language skills while having fun. The classes run from June 19 to August 31. southsidemandarin.com/

The Edge It’s noses to the grindstone for some this summer, with eyes on the prize for a top college place. The Edge presents a two-week intensive boot camp for applicants to US colleges who are looking to raise their ACT/SAT scores. The course offers 70 hours of teaching and will be conducted by testprep specialists. theedge.com.hk

HK Kidz If languages are what your child is looking for, HK Kidz might have the solution. Offering a creative way for children to develop language skills, classes are available in German, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Japanese and English. Taught through songs, drama, storytelling, role-play and games, classes are suitable for children aged from two to 12. A variety of enrichment classes can also be mixed and matched. hkkidz.com

Alpha Academy Keep the cogs turning throughout the summer with Maths Gymnastics, Experimental Science and Brain Training. Suitable for primary and secondary school students, this is particularly aimed at those sitting UK entrance exams or iGCSEs. Also on offer are public-speaking events and debating workshops for students wanting to brush up on their communication skills. alphaacademy.edu.hk

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education

Norton House

The Medic Portal

CDNIS

There’s no rest for the wicked, or those applying to boarding school. Norton House has designed a summer enrichment series for those looking to gain entry to schools abroad. Running throughout the summer and suitable for both primary and secondary students, this is a chance for them to brush up on some key skills before the forthcoming admission season starts in the autumn. nh.edu.hk/

Hong Kong students hoping to get into a UK medical school will snap up these courses offered

by The Medic Portal. The three-day training covers the BMAT, UKCAT and the interview, and the courses are written and taught by doctors who are all experts in medical education. July 7-9 at Kellett (Kowloon Bay). themedicportal.com

The CDNIS summer-school brochure is 70 pages long so it’s safe to assume there’s a fair bit of variety. Some of the activities not often seen in Hong Kong include ukulele, inline skating and Bizsmart, an entrepreneurial course for 11-19-year-olds. The school has also coupled with the University of Cambridge again this year to provide an undergraduate-style course for those contemplating their career. There are also courses for little ones as young as three. cdnis.edu.hk/

My ArchiSchool Specialising in architecture, My ArchiSchool offers four-day summer workshops throughout July and August. The workshops include designing zoos and supermarkets using skills such as 3D printing and sketching. There’s also a range of special workshops, including a terrarium workshop where children can build their own garden. myarchischool.com/

Mulberry House Mulberry House’s eight-week summer camp is for children who want to have fun learning indoors and outdoors, in Mandarin. Led by playgroup and preschool teachers, the camp is filled with engaging activities so participants learn and have fun while building daily vocabulary and confidence in speaking and reading. mulberryhouseasia.com/

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Mini Mandarins Improve your child’s Mandarin skills in a fun language environment. Mini Mandarins offers a range of activities such as arts & craft, mini chef and musical theatre to help kids develop their passion for Mandarin and the Chinese culture. minimandarins.com

All-rounders Korean International School Throughout July, the Korean International Summer School is offering a range of exciting academic and recreational courses. Aimed at students aged 3-12, sessions can be morning, afternoon or both.

Subjects on offer are French, ICT, Art, Mandarin, ESL and sport. Other than the foreign-language classes, teaching will be in English. kis.edu.hk/is/life_summerschool

American School Hong Kong If your children are keen on football, animals, science, coding, Wushu, pottery or medieval history, the ASHK Summer Program is for them. It includes three sessions of nine or 10 days each, with separate courses for students aged from six to eight, and nine to 13. Open to ASHK and non-ASHK students. ashk.edu.hk

Fairchild No books needed at this play-based activities summer camp at Fairchild Junior Academy.

Instead, it’s a glorious mixture of sports, music and movement, creative arts, cooking, science and storytelling. Taking place throughout July and August and open to children aged between eight months and six years, the camp is an actionpacked way to spend the summer holidays. fairchild.academy

education

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education

Maggie and Rose Head south to the beach to make the most of Maggie and Rose’s much-envied spot at The Pulse. Non-members are welcome to join in these unaccompanied camps for four-to-eightyear-olds. Running through July and August, the three-hour sessions include topics such as Bonkers Biology, Animal Planet and Art Factory. maggieandrose.com.hk

Dalton Community Dalton has things wrapped up on both sides of the harbour with camps at its Kowloon and Cyberport campuses. Split into three age groups catering for children aged from one to 10, classes for the younger ones will be a mixture of gym, art, music and reading, whilst the older children (6 six or above) will focus on drama and STEAM. dshk.edu.hk/eng/

YWCA Centre of Learning and Life Enhancement You name it, the YWCA has got it this summer.

Perfect for siblings with different interests, there’s something for everyone: specialist courses in soccer, cooking, gymnastics, drama, STEM and swimming. So whether your children want to know more about 3D printing or fancy perfecting their skills on the trampoline, there will be something to keep them busy. clle.ywca.org.hk

ARCH Sherlock Holmes would have loved this! Centred around the theme ‘Junior Detectives: Improbable and Impossible’, this 10-day course combines

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history, literature and drama with STEM and robotics to help participants solve crimes and complete challenges. Aimed at children aged 8-11, the camp also includes golf and tennis coaching for an all-round summer of fun. arch-education.com

Hong Kong Academy Lovers of basketball and soccer can all play under one roof at HKA’s summer programme. Or for those more comfortable in a classroom, there

are also coding and science sessions. asa@hkacademy.edu.hk

ATOM Academy Looking for K-Pop and taekwondo all under the same roof? Look no further. With Mandarin, gymnastics and science as well, ATOM’s Summer Fiesta caters for children from 2.5 to eight years old. Camps run from the end of June until the end of August. Swimming classes by the Hong Kong Swimming Academy are also available. atomacademy.com.hk

Hong Kong International School The Summer Discovery Program has been running for over 40 years, offering a fun and challenging range of courses for children aged four to 17. On offer at this year’s camp is everything from film-making and basketball to public speaking and Mandarin. The programme runs in two three-week sessions across the Tai Tam and Repulse Bay campuses. summer.hkis.edu.hk

Hong Kong Parkview With a variety of summer camps for children aged 18 months and up, there’s something for everyone at Hong Kong Parkview. Choose from specialised camps focusing on science, dance or ropeclimbing, or multi-sport camps with swimming, tennis, basketball, rock-climbing and Chinese Kung Fu. Children can attend the camps for a full week or just selected days. hongkongparkview.com/

education

Littlies Woodlands Catering to children as young as six months old, the Woodland Pre-Schools’ summer programme offers a broad range of options: English, Mandarin or bilingual classes, with subjects including drama, music, science, cooking and design.

There’s also a summer sports programme for children aged from 2.8 to seven years. woodlandschools.com

Malvern

SKIP

Do you have a little performer in the house? The ‘Malvern Little Star Summer Camp’ in Yau Ma Tei in July focuses on communication and language, so children will learn basic drama concepts and develop performance skills whilst perfecting movement and dance. Designed for children from pre-nursery to Kindergarten 3. malvernpreschool.hk/malvern-little-starsummer-camp

This one is for those who like getting their hands dirty. The SKIP Summer Paint & Play programme is for children aged between one and five. They’ll participate in a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including arts, crafts, painting and sensory activities using play dough, goop, slime and sand, finishing up with story time, singing and dancing. Each child must be accompanied by an adult. skip.edu.hk

Peterhouse Preschool Designed to inspire musical awareness, critical thinking and a good dollop of imagination, the Peterhouse course is for children aged between 18 months and five years. peterhouse-preschool.com/

Mount Kelly The Mount Kelly Babies and Toddlers Summer Programmes run throughout June and July. With storytelling, explorative play and co-ordinated games, this is aimed at children between the ages of 15 months and four years, who’ll also have the chance to take part in a free class to experience the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Curriculum. mountkelly.edu.hk

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big day out

Chasing waterfalls on Luk Wu Country Trail

Tara Smyth shares a secret waterfall trail hidden within the Sai Kung Country Park

Tara Smyth is Sai Kung‘s local Scout leader and runs photography company Nitty Gritty Images.

Visit facebook.com/nittygrittyimages

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big day out

T

his month’s Big Day Out is a bit of a hidden gem. In fact the ladies I took with me on my recce asked me why on Earth I would want to put it in a magazine for the world to see. Hmmmm, yes, well, good point. After much deliberation my kinder side got the better of me and I decided that I would indeed share this precious location.

We’ll be getting into a couple of streams, actually walking in the water, negotiating rocks and boulders and doing a little ‘normal’ hiking too. Wear regular hiking socks and ordinary, well-fitting hiking shoes to protect your feet, or you’ll end up with blisters. Never go in the streams with Crocs, flip-flops, TEVAs or wetsuit booties.

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is a lovely, serene spot, and those passing on the path just 15 metres away will have no idea you’re even there.

When it’s time to drag yourself away, you’ll need to climb back up and return to the path. Continue for a few more minutes and you’ll reach Chek Keng and the Maclehose Trail (Stage 2). Now you have a few options.

1.) Turn right and continue along the whole of Maclehose 2 and back to Sai Wan Pavilion (the longest and hardest option). 2.) Turn left and continue along the last bit of Maclehose 2 to Pak Tam Au, where you can get a bus out of the Country Park and back to Sai Kung. OR, do what we did, and ferry or kai-to out of Chek Keng to Wong Shek Pier and catch the bus.

Important points to remember Our hike begins at Sai Wan Pavilion – you can either taxi or take the 29R from outside McDonald’s in Sai Kung. Once at the pavilion, you’ll need to walk 100 metres back along the road and take the steep steps, up to the right – the Luk Wu Country Trail. After about 300 metres (five minutes) you’ll come to a fork in the path – take the left-hand fork. After a further 800 metres you’ll reach our first stream.

Now it’s time to get stuck in! Negotiate the rocks carefully and walk along the riverbed, enjoying the cool waters flowing around your ankles. Very soon you’ll come to the first rock pool and waterfall. Take your pack off and stop awhile, taking time to swim in this beautiful pool. From here head back to the Luk Wu Country Trail or continue onto the next and rather dramatic waterfall. Take the narrow path, ‘sign-posted’ with ribbons, which runs up the right-hand side of the rock pool. There is a little negotiation required and you should watch your step, taking care of dogs and children along this bit – there is a slightly precarious drop to the left, but it is absolutely doable with care.

At the top, you may now re-enter the stream and continue to walk for 20 to 30 minutes until you reach the stunning wall of rock. At a small fork in the river, keep right. Water levels and waterfall flow depends upon how much rain has recently fallen. At the time of our hike, there was very little water flowing, but I have been there when it’s been really rather dramatic!

There aren’t really any deep watering holes here for swimming, but the place is stunning and well worth the detour – quite literally a natural amphitheatre of beauty and drama. Kids can clamber around on the rocks and there are plenty of great photo opportunities.

The next part of our hike takes us back to the Luk Wu Country Trail. The easiest (and safest) option is to turn around and walk back

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along the riverbed, past the original rock pool that you swam in, and back to the trail where you first left it. Here you should turn left (you came from the right) and continue along the trail.

After about 10 minutes (650 metres) you will reach a signpost – follow the path to the right, signposted ‘Chek Keng’. On a clear day you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views down towards Chek Keng and out to sea. The path is a little hilly and eventually you’ll start to descend down towards sea level.

Just before reaching Chek Keng you’ll come to a concrete path that crosses a wide stream.

To your right are some rocks and boulders.

Clamber down about 15 metres, away from the path, and you’ll reach a small rock pool with waterfall. It’s a lovely swimming spot. Continue for five metres and you’ll hit a calm pool, like a spa bath, where you can wallow and relax. This

• Never enter a stream during heavy rainfall or when the Thunderstorm Warning is in force – flash floods are real and can be fatal.

• Never jump from rock to rock. You never know whether the rock you are jumping onto is stable – always tread carefully • Never jump from a height into a rock pool until you have tested the depth of the pool.

• Never dive head-first into a rock pool.

• Always wear sturdy footwear.

• Waterproof all your belongings in case you fall whilst walking and your pack ends up in the water.

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woof

Ask a vet...

Pet eccentricities and abnormalities. Dr Pauline answers your questions for food. They are also prey for other predators like pythons in Hong Kong. If you let your cat outside, you subject it to positive environmental stimulation, mentally and physically. You also put it at risk of coming across life-threatening situations or instant death. Your choice!

Will cod liver oil or coconut oil help with my cat’s food allergy?

Without knowing more about your cat, it’s difficult to know whether either oil would help. Both oils contain essential fatty acids [EFA] that cannot be made in the body and are required in the diet.

EFA supplementation has been used by vets to treat many conditions, e.g., dry coats, arthritis and some allergies, with mixed results. Good-quality commercial diets have most of the required EFAs a cat needs. My advice is to take care with [over] supplements. They can harm as well as heal!

Is it safe to let cats outside in Hong Kong?

Cats are natural predators conditioned to hunt

How long do goldfish live, generally?

The lifespan of your pet goldfish depends on proper environmental care and responsible tank maintenance. The average lifespan of a pet goldfish is five to 10 years, and in the wild, they can live as long as 25 years. The oldest recorded pet goldfish lived for 43 years.

My cat is always hungry. Why could this be?

It could simply be that you’re not feeding enough of or the right type of balanced food to suit the lifestyle and age of your cat. Or there could be a medical problem interfering with internal hunger-control hormones. Monitor the amounts fed/eaten, your cat’s weight gain/loss and any abnormal behaviour for a few weeks, then plan to visit your vet to discuss.

Do dogs and cats have a concept of time?

Absolutely! Most vertebrates, including dogs and cats, have their daily ‘time’ manipulated by an internal body clock, controlled by the release of the hormone melatonin from a brain gland, the pineal body, in response to changes in daylight.

If you ever try not feeding your cat on time, or not walking your dog when they expect a walk, they ill soon let you know the ‘time’ has arrived!

Got a question for Dr. Pauline? Email editorial@hongkongliving.com

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

Walkies Walkies with Mid-levels resident Erick Ip

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as the steps might look, medium- to largesized dogs can easily tackle them. It’s good for your dog’s hind legs and it also builds up their endurance.

We usually walk Oli two or three times a day. The good thing about Mid-levels is that it’s got dog-friendly bars and pubs. Our favourite is Craftissimo on Tai Ping Shan Street. Oli quietly sits on the side while I mingle with friends.

Tai Ping Shan St.

© OpenStreetMap contributors

O

li is an 11-month-old mongrel. We got him from the LAP adoption centre in Tsuen Wan, and he loves playing with other dogs!

Although there are only a few parks in Mid-levels, there are always free alleys and little lanes where dogs can play fetch. A famous spot for locals is the junction of U Lam Terrace and Rozario Street. It’s free and quiet during the day with no cars or trucks rolling in and out. There are no big roads close by so you don’t have to worry about taking your pet off their lead. The place is also shaded, perfect for owners.

If you’re coming from PMQ, walk along Staunton Street and then Bridges Street heading towards Sheung Wan. Soon you will see a Women’s Welfare Club to your right.

Ladder Street is a stone staircase that goes up the hill all the way to Caine Road. As daunting

Erick with Oli

marketplace

marketplace

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marketplace

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marketplace

GET LISTED! 2776 2772 talk@hongkongliving.com To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772

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zim city

Photo by Graham Uden

Let’s have an honest debate about land Consultation document raises more questions than it answers

T

he long-awaited consultation on land supply has started.

After more than a year of deliberation, the Development Bureau, together with the Land Supply Task Force, produced an 80-page document. And the bias is dripping off the pages from the start. The list of options is messy, and it lacks a vision for the city.

The introduction talks of the demand for land by pointing at the affordability crisis we’re facing. However it fails to explain to what extent the problem is caused by a lack of land supply, and it ignores key facts about the supply of housing units over the past 20 years and our average per capita living area. More egregious is the absence of charts showing interest rates, the global money supply and the outpouring of capital from the Mainland over the last decades.

Let me be clear: the city needs to continually evolve and develop new facilities to meet new needs and aspirations. And these will need land, as this evolution can’t be met through the recycling (redevelopment) of dilapidated or underused land and facilities.

But at this point the consultation document goes off the rails. It speaks of allowing the development of private agriculture land reserves under ‘publicprivate partnership’ (PPP) deals. This

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refers to the ownership of land in the New Territories but does not explain the current uses or the zoning setting out the permitted uses.

Also awkward here is the Government’s push for the resumption of land in the new development areas, and its refusal to grant land-owners the right to develop themselves. Why resume in the new development areas but develop randomly under PPP in areas that have yet to be planned? The switch has resulted in a lot of people complaining that the Government is colluding with developers.

We need to talk about how to prioritise the land-supply options. The Government suggests it is about delivery time, volume and the avoidance of controversy. But surely we should consider principles such as cost, access to employment, social justice, quality of life and impacts on traffic, ecology, habitats and landscape.

Importantly, what is missing is a vision for the city. What makes Hong Kong successful and what makes it stand out from other world cities such as New York, London, Beijing and Shanghai (or Singapore). What makes us different, and do we want to retain it? Our hyper-density combined with true wilderness is unique.

We rank high for our longevity, efficiency, accessibility of services, low car ownership

and the diversity of activities one can undertake within a day. And we should make sure not to lose this.

Although we have a serious issue of 123,000 inadequately housed households, these people are not homeless, unlike in other global cities. Questions need to be raised about why many of them don’t have priority to public housing, and the efficiency of our allocation system.

The Citizens Task Force on Land Resources together with Liber Research Community will consult the public on the definition of our land supply options and the evaluation principles we should apply to prioritise these options. We hope to reduce the bias the Government is showing for its favourites – the lazy options of paying engineers to reclaim land and getting the institutions it controls to adopt changes in country park boundaries, all while avoiding the hard work of reorganising land use in the New Territories.

For the future of our Hong Kong, let’s have an honest debate about our land.

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

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