Southside January 2019

RUGS | DINING | CREATIVE CLASSES | 42.195 KMS

January 2019

Time for a fresh look Hong Kong’s best hair salons

Where to buy rugs in Hong Kong

3 65 RE AS TO LOONS VE

2019

MARATHON FITNESS 101 All you need to know before your first marathon

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The really useful magazine January 2019

2 EDITOR’S LETTER

40 BIG DAY OUT

& Contributors

Explore the hidden depths of Hok Tau

4 SNAPPED! Southsiders out and about 6 THE PLANNER

42 TRAVEL

A winter adventure in Mongolia

48 PETS

What’s on in January

Dr Pauline answers your pet questions

11 BOOK NOW

49 WALKIES

Things worth booking ahead for

12 MUST HAVE THIS MONTH

Fitness accessories

Win a 3 night stay at COMO The Treasury in Perth, Australia

Where to walk your dog around the Southside

Strategies to reduce packaging waste

52 SOUTHSIDE SECRETS

Southsides only Mosque

16 NEWS

56 MRS. BACKFIRE

What’s happening in our backyard

How to say goodbye

19 FIVE MINUTES WITH…

16

50 DESIGNING HK

14 GIVEAWAYS

12

42

Jacqueline Chung Sun of Bella Design Gallery

20 LOCAL

An update on the Deep Water Bay clean up

22 COVER STORY

Marathon fitness 101

28 DINING

Where to eat healthy food this January

38

32

30 NIBBLES

Fratelli’s comfort winter food

32 HEALTH & BEAUTY

Hong Kong’s best hair salons

34 EDUCATION

Learn a new skill in 2019

38 HOME AND LIVING

Where to buy rugs in Hong Kong

30

52

“IT IS NOT THE LENGTH OF LIFE, BUT DEPTH OF LIFE” - RALPH WALDO EMERSON

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editor’s letter

H

appy New Year everyone! My new year’s resolution is to stay fit and eat healthy. What is yours? Having tried to stay fit time and again with lapses here and there, I promised to stay active without dereliction on my part. Our cover story this month includes everything you need to know to run your first marathon. Head to page 22 to get inspired!

To perform well you need to eat well, we round up Hong Kong’s healthiest restaurants on page 28. We catch up with Jacqueline Chung Sun, the Southside resident and director of Kikki.k Hong Kong discusses how she balances business and motherhood on page 19. Inspiring indeed! They say, education is the passport to the future and one should never stop learning.

Learn a new skill this year or brush up on forgotten talents with our round up of Hong Kong’s best adult education courses on page 34.

A new year brings opportunity for a new look, head to page 32 for our picks on the hottest salons in town. On page 30, the chefs at Fratelli’s share their recipe for the perfect mulled wine to keep you warm this January.

Cheers to you and a fabulous year ahead!

Editorial

Managing editor Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Editor Vasavi Seethepalli, vasavi@hongkongliving.com Contributing editors Becky Love, becky@hongkongliving.com Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Carolynne Dear, carolynne@hongkongliving.com Media assistant Jeramy Lee, jeramy@hongkongliving.com

Design

Design Coordinator Sonia Khatwani, sonia@hongkongliving.com Graphic designer Alvin Cheng, alvin@hongkongliving.com

Events

Events executive Ran Chan, ran@hongkongliving.com

Sales & Marketing

Director of Partnerships Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Sales & Marketing executive Isamonia Chui, isamonia@hongkongliving.com Corrie Tang, corrie@hongkongliving.com

Operations

Assistant Operations Manager Charles Lau, charles@hongkongliving.com

contributors

Digital

Digital Editor Apple Lee, apple@hongkongliving.com

Publisher

Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com

Thanks to Karin Bremer Nahuan Medina Nicole Cooley

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

Bybba Ortu

Karin Bremer

Nicole Slater

… Italian-born with an unconditional love of sports including dance, volleyball, soccer and rollerblading.

I started training in athletics when I was 12 and ended up participating in five Nationals. At 25, I moved to London and studied in the fitness industry, and eventually moved from fitness instructor to full-time personal trainer.

My New Year resolution: To be the best Mum I can be and spread good vibes to everyone around me.

… a Dutch-Australian photographer who has called Hong Kong home for the past five years. As Karin Bremer Photography, she photographs anything from family portraits to events, commercial photography to digital courses. When not taking photos, she loves exploring the great outdoors and can be found on Hong Kong’s hiking trails with the family dog, Jack.

My New Year resolution: To worry less, and enjoy the little things more.

Life is too short! karinbremer.com

...editor of Southside’s sister publication, Sai Kung Magazine. She grew up in Hong Kong before moving to England to study journalism. Since moving back she’s been eating and snapping her way around the city on Instagram @nicoleeeslater My New Year resolution: To not feel guilty about saying no, you don’t have to go to every event or party, no one is going to punish you.

Want to write for Southside Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 2 | SOUTHSIDE.HK

Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong

Cover by: Alvin Photo credit: @nahuan.photo Courtesy of Flex Studio

HONG KONG hongkongliving.com Southside 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. Southside 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 publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 3

people Snaps from Southside

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Photo credit: Karin Bremer

say cheese

Southside Christmas Charity Lunch 2018

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planner

JAN 20

Gammon China Coast Marathon and Half Marathon Registration is open for Hong Kong’s oldest marathon and half marathon. Start and finish at Pak Tam Chung. 8am. $500 (AVOHK members $450). avohk.org

UNTIL JAN 12

Banana Art Club Christmas Camp For ages 3-17. Enjoy canvas painting, crafts, watercolour painting, sketching and more.

Various time slots. Two-hour session $398, three hour session $590. Causeway Bay Centre, Flat 49, 14/F Eton Tower, 8 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay. bananaartclub. com/holiday-camp

UNTIL FEB 17

The AIA Great European Carnival Hong Kong’s annual winter fair. Adults $130 (includes entry and 10 tokens), Child (3-11) $90 (includes entry and 7 tokens), bundles available. Number of tokens required for each attraction vary. 11am - 11pm. Closed 11 January. Central Waterfront Event Space, Central. tgec.asia

JAN 1

Dragon and Lion Dance Extravaganza: Performances and Parade Welcome the New Year with hundreds of colourful dragons, lions, acrobats and more.

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11am-5pm. Free. Parade starts at Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui. dragonlion.hk

JAN 2 - 4

Woodland Christmas Camp - Elves Workshop Continue the fun of Christmas, and join in the jingle bell dancing, singing along with Rudolf, baking Christmas cookies and more! Workshops are three hour drop off sessions. Suitable for ages 3-7. All

happening in January

JAN 6

welcome. 9am-noon, various dates. $750 per day. Various campuses. Register at woodlandschools.com

JAN 6 - FEB 4

“CATS - The Musical” Experience one of the greatest musicals of all time. Times vary. $445. Lyric Theatre, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai. viagogo.com

JAN 11 - 13

Peppa Pig Live Join Peppa Pig and friends in this 85-minute live show, complete with lots of new songs and a giant bouncing ball. Times vary. $295.

Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai. premier.hkticketing.com

Tong Chong Street Market Browse an exciting collection of up-and-coming homegrown food stalls, unconventional packaged food and fresh seasonal produce that will introduce a new scene of sustainable food trend. 11am-5pm. Free. Tong Chong Street, Taikoo Place, Quarry Bay. facebook.com/tongchongstreetmarket

JAN 16 JAN 13

Lantau Base Camp Ladies Trail Run The 20km/11km trail race can be fast walked, jogged or run. Afterward, load up on chocolate, and add the finisher crystal key chain to your annual Ladies Trail Running Race collection. Starts 10am. $290. Starts and finishes near Mui Wo Silvermine Beach. events.lantaubasecamp.com

Hong Kong Love Stories: Volume 1 - The Beginning of Us Can you really find true love in this city?

Presented by Sweet and Sour Productions Ltd. Part of the proceeds go to Hong Kong Dog Rescue. 7-9.15pm. $300. Hong Kong Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Road, Central. ticketflap.com

JAN 16 - 24

JAN 13

Beare’s Premiere Music Festival 2019

Performing in Hong Kong following their latest album Evolve. 8pm. From $460.

AsiaWorld Expo Arena, Hall 1, Airport Expo Blvd, Chek Lap Kok. viagogo.com

Formerly the Hong Kong International Chamber Music Festival, witness over 20 participating artists including Cho-Liang Lin (Artistic Director and violinist) and Joyce DiDonato (Mezzo-Soprano). Times and pricing varies. pphk.org/events

“Imagine Dragons” Evolve World Tour

Mamma Mia! Mamma Mia!, returns to

JAN 16-27

Hong Kong - a tale of love, friendship and identity told through the timeless hits of ABBA. Times vary. $195. Lyric Theatre, The Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai. mamma-mia.com

Public holiday dates for 2019 1 Jan 5 Feb 6 Feb 7 Feb 5 Apr 19 Apr 20 Apr 22 Apr 1 May 12 May

New Year’s Day Lunar New Year The Second Day of Lunar New Year The Third Day of Lunar New Year Ching Ming Festival Good Friday The Day Following Good Friday Easter Monday Labour Day Birthday of Buddha

13 May 7 Jun 1 Jul 14 Sep

Birthday of Buddha Holiday Tuen Ng Festival HKSAR Establishment Day The Day Following Mid-Autumn Festival 1 Oct National Day 7 Oct Chung Yeung Festival 25 Dec Christmas Day 26 Dec The First Weekday After Christmas Day

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planner

JAN 29

JAN 19 - 20

“Once on This Island JR” Face Productions presents their next performance with their Face Academy cast – Once on This Island JR. $350 adults, $250 concession. Jan 19: 3pm and 7pm, Jan 20: 7pm only. Y-Studio, Youth Square, Chai Wan. Tickets from tickets.urbtix.hk

JAN 22

Talk and workshop on Gut Health and The Microbiome Ally van de Pol, Holistic Nutritionist at Dragon Fitness and Coaching, explains how good gut health is pivotal to overall health. Find out how your microbiome affects various conditions in your body. Learn how diet and lifestyle changes can heal your gut, reverse chronic conditions and keep you healthy for life. $50. 11.30am. Wong Chuk Yeung, Sai Kung. Email to book. ally@ dragonfitnessandcoaching.com

JAN 26

ESF Hong Kong Run 2019 Runners will compete on distances ranging between 1km and 10km. After the race, runners and the entire community can enjoy a festive carnival. 8.30am - 1pm. Spectators and carnival admission free. Hong Kong Science Park, 2 Science Park West Avenue, Sha Tin. hkrun.esf.edu.hk

JAN 26

Fairchild Kindergarten New Year Bazaar and Open House

Mahabharat - The Rise of Dharma Presented by the The Hong Kong Chinmaya Foundation (HKCF), this show depicts one of India’s greatest legends through story-telling, dance and a powerful soundtrack. From $350. 7:30-10pm. Lyric Theater, Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai. premier.hkticketing.com

JAN 27

Sun Life Resolution Run Register for the 1km, 3km, 5km or 10km fun run. Spectators welcome. 9am start. From $320. Hong Kong Science Park, 2 Science Park West Avenue, Sha Tin. sunrun.sunlife.com.hk

Along with viewing the kindergarten, guests can browse the market stalls, enjoy a science workshop and dumpling making. 2-5.30pm.

Information sessions at 3pm and 4pm.

Free. G/F & 1/F Kong Chian Tower, Block 1, 351 Des Voeux Road West, Sai Ying Pun. fairchild.edu.hk

JAN 30

Hong Kong Living’s Fitness & Wellness Retreat A day of all things healthy including yoga and fitness workshops, with lunch provided by Mama Malouf. $180 includes a goodie bag (valued at $500). XPFitnessHub, 4/F Li Dong Building, No. 9 Li Yuen Street East, Central. Tickets available at hongkongliving.com/shop

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happening in January

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planner

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happening in January

BOOK NOW the glamorous world of New York high society. Tickets from $140. Times vary.

Lyric Theatre, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai. hkballet.com

and ends in Victoria Park, Causeway Bay. Starts 6.10am. Spectators free.

Start Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. hkmarathon.com

FEB 17

Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon The 42km course starts at Tsim Sha Tsui

FEB 15 - 17

One of the most prestigious equestrian events in the world. Admission to the Prestige Village is free. Tickets for competition sessions $200-$980, family and concessionary tickets available as well as premium VIP packages. AsiaWorld Expo, Airport Expo Blvd, Chek Lap Kok. longinesmasters.com/en

FEB 15 - 17

“The Great Gatsby�

Performed by the Hong Kong Ballet, enter

Photo credit: Dean Alexander

Longines Masters of Hong Kong

APR 14

Muse Fearless Dragon Charity Run Register now for the 3km, 10km or 21km half marathon. 8.30am start for half marathon. 9am for 3km and 10km. $350.

Man Yee Road, Sai Kung - Start point: Pak Tam Chung P.H.A.B. Site Picnic. fearlessdragon2019.weebly.com

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

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 11

must have this month

Active Yoga Mat $90 from Cotton On cottonon.com/HK

Endurolyte Fizz Mango $59 from Hammer online.escapade.com.hk Kinesiology Pre Cut Tape $115 from Mueller online.escapade.com.hk

Adagio Leggings in Burgundy $700 from Pure Apparel be-pure.com

Back Beat Fit 305 $558.60 from Plantronics online.escapade.com.hk Hock Rotator 2 Jump Rope $1,200 from Lane Crawford lanecrawford.com

Ava Fertility Tracker 2.0 $2,388 online only avawomen.com

Puma Muse Satin $659 from Footlocker footlocker.hk Hock Ropa Expander 8mm $2,200 from Lane Crawford lanecrawford.com

Life Fitness Folding Treadmill $31,000 from Nerd Kids For Living nerdkidsforliving.com

Run Wireless Earbuds $1,189.30 from Jaybird jaybirdsport.com/en-hk

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Hock Diskus Dumbbell Tower Set $138,000 from Lane Crawford lanecrawford.com

get fit Nancy Cap $59 from Cotton On cottonon.com/HK

Adagio Leggings in Black $700 from Pure Apparel be-pure.com

Juno High Impact Sports Bra $490 from Brooks brooksrunning.com Manduka X Yoga Mat $499 from Manduka online.escapade.com.hk

Adidas NMD R1 Womens shoes $1,099 from Footlocker footlocker.hk

Hock Vluv Veel Seating Ball $1,800 from Lane Crawford lanecrawford.com

Versa Woven Lavender Band $1,998 from FitBit fitbit.com

Vita Coco 330ml $15.50 from various locations including Marketplace vitacoco.com/hk

Marathon Fresh Socklets $159 from Hilly hillysocks.com

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 13

giveaways

GIVEAWAYS

win at hongkongliving.com

Win a three-night stay at COMO The Treasury in Perth, Australia!

COMO The Treasury is a city retreat in the historic heart of Perth. Housed in the former 19th century State Buildings, it’s a sleek and modern space with traces of the Victorian-era facade.

The urban hotel includes 48 rooms and suites ranging from 55 to 120 square-meter. Select units feature fireplaces and walk-out balconies overlooking Cathedral Square or Swan River. On the fourth floor you’ll find Wildflower- a spacious rooftop restaurant that offers sweeping views of the city and the river. Wildflower is helmed by executive chef Jed Gerrard and serves a farmer and forager driven menu that takes after the local indigenous tribe’s six seasons.

COMO Shambhala Urban Escape offers a healing retreat for city dwellers and specialises in Western and Eastern massage as well as holistic treatments including facials, personal training and yoga. COMO The Treasury is part of COMO Hotels and Resorts, which offers personalised luxury travel experiences at its urban hotels, island resorts, adventure retreats and wellness resorts.

We are giving away a 3-night stay at COMO The Treasury and a complimentary dinner for two at Wildflower to one lucky winner.

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

14 | SOUTHSIDE.HK

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 15

news

The University of Chicago opens first Hong Kong campus at Mount Davis

The University of Chicago’s first Hong Kong campus officially opened its doors at Mount Davis at the end of November, following two years of construction. The campus is housed on a historic site, once home to the Jubilee Battery which played a defensive role during the Second World War. Later it was converted into mess and quarters for the British Army Royal Engineers and in the 1960’s it became the Victoria Road Detention Centre (VRDC) under the Special Branch of the Hong Kong Police Force. Designers have been careful to preserve features including Grade 3 listed heritage buildings and heritage trails. The

University of Chicago was founded in 1890 in Hyde Park, Chicago. The new campus will be home to the School of Business Executive MBA Program Asia and Executive Education non-degree courses for professionals, as well as the University’s first undergraduate study abroad program in Hong Kong. The Honorable guest Mrs. Carrie Lam said at the opening, “Higher education institutions are essential to creating the talent we need to succeed in our global economy. They are also essential in connecting people, institutions, business and governments.” The call for faculty proposal will run until January 15. uchicago.hk

Hong Kong Human Rights Art Prize 2018 winner announced

On December 8, Hong Kong artist Siu Wai Hang was awarded the Hong Kong Human Rights Arts Prize (HKHRAP) 2018 for her powerful video Open Ta Kung Pao. Siu’s work was selected from a shortlist of 23 artworks. The fifth HKHRAP awards and exhibition opening ceremony was co-presented by Justice Centre Hong Kong and the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao. Two runners-up were

16 | SOUTHSIDE.HK

also chosen; Sophie Cheung Hing Yee for her mixed-media piece Soften stones 1: Tombstone for 61 students suicide since 2016, and Yuet Mei Lo for Boxed In. The Directors’ Choice Award was presented to Ching Yee Lau for Wildness in Pawn.

The exhibition runs weekdays until January 11, 8am-8pm at The Hive Spring, 42 Wong Chuk Hang. justicecentre.org.hk

Money back on public transport The government is trying to make crossing the city easier. Starting this month, commuters will receive a 25% discount on public transportation costs when they spend over $400 each month using their Octopus card. All modes of public transport will be included. The subsidy is available to claim on the 16th day of the following month, starting this month. The claim-back amount will be capped at $300. Apply through the Octopus app. thb.gov.hk

Health kick at Horizon Plaza Popular fitness and lifestyle store, Nerd Kids for Living has opened a location at Horizon Plaza.

Nerd Kids for Living retails gym equipment including; crosstrainers, foldable treadmills and rowing machines and also offers clients a personalised service to create their own fullycustomised home gym. Nerd Kids for Living, 19 Floor, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing St, Ap Lei Chau. nerdkidsforliving.com

in your backyard

Hong Kong-based startup on cover of Time Magazine

Rosewood Hong Kong

Hong Kong-based startup brand Lumos had much to celebrate as 2018 drew to a close, having their Smart Helmet product featured on the cover of Time Magazine’s “Best Inventions of 2018” feature. The product which integrates lights, hard brakes, turn signals and head protection into a single cohesive helmet promises to revolutionise road safety. The helmet which uses light signals to indicate whether the cyclist will turn left, right or stop is manufactured in Guangdong province. Lumos also partnered with Apple earlier this year so that the Apple

Slated for a March 17 opening, the eagerly anticipated Rosewood Hong Kong is now open for bookings. It promises “an ultra-luxury property” on the harbourfront in the new Victoria Dockside district of Tsim Sha Tsui.

The 65-storey tower has been designed by American architects Kohn Pedersen Fox and 43 of the floors will be dedicated to the hotel.

Views over Victoria Harbour will be “prominently showcased” from 80% of guest rooms; these include 322 rooms and 91 suites. The hotel will also be home to 18 signature suites, including the 1,000 square metre Harbour House and The Garden House with wraparound harbour views from their private sky terraces (which come with private lap pools) on the 57th floor.

The property will eventually have eight food and beverage outlets, including Chinese tea house Holt’s Cafe, Cantonese speciality restaurant The Legacy House and cocktail bar DarkSide, all three of which will be open from the March launch day.

Rosewood Hong Kong will also be the first urban outpost of Asaya, its signature wellness centre and spa. Asaya will be set over two floors and will include alternative therapies, fitness and lifestyle activities, nutrition advice, social spaces and a membership programme open to local residents.

Rosewood opening events will dovetail with the launch of Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Xiqu Centre in the West Kowloon Cultural District, both of which are due to open early this year. rosewoodhotels.com

Watch could assist in activating the helmet through the use of hand gestures. The positive reception has led to Smart Helmet becoming the very first helmet to be sold in Apple stores throughout Europe and the United States. The helmet also made the list of Oprah’s favourite things of 2018, saying; “You can’t put a price on safety. This hightech bike helmet is the one you want hugging a loved one’s noggin.” Smart Helmet is now available from selected Fortress stores and lumoshelmet.co

Hong Kong Greeters launch new tour Tour group Hong Kong Greeters has launched a ‘Grass Routes Vegetarian Food and Cultural Tour’. Responding to the demand for health conscious foodie tour options, Hong Kong Greeters’ founder Amy Overy and her team has put together a plant-based tour of Hong Kong’s Kowloon area and New Territories.

“We’ve combined what this city does best,” says Overy. The tour’s historical, cultural and foodie destinations are sufficiently off-the-beaten track to interest even long-term residents, along with local-style vegetarian and vegan food options. Each stop, including temples, gardens and a re-developed century-old colonial police station, has been painstakingly researched.

The tour lasts three and a half to four hours and participants need bring no more than a topped up Octopus card and a desire to find out a bit more about their home. Meeting and finishing points are within easy walking distance of MTR stations and tours are limited to groups of no more than eight people. hkgreeters.com

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 17

five minutes with Jacqueline’s tips for a successful year 1. Review and reflect on the year that just passed, and give thanks.

2. Keep a journal!

3. Set goals for the coming year and write them down.

4. Set aside me-time, this is important for self-reflection and sanity!

5. Prioritise! If we are to achieve our goals, sometimes we need to make sacrifices.

I had a very international upbringing, I was born in Hong Kong and studied at boarding schools in Australia and the UK, before returning to Hong Kong.

Success comes from making the most out of opportunities. That and having an amazing team; being detail-oriented, and a little bit of luck.

What really annoys me? When people talk without making eye contact.

Failures are part of the journey. Embrace them with courage and learn from them.

I love this time of year, I start my day with an early morning walk along Seaview Promenade, from Country Club to Repulse Bay. It is very calming and the best way to kick start the day.

Jacqueline Chung Sun Vasavi Seethepalli talks to Southside resident and woman responsible for bringing stationary brand kikki.k to Hong Kong With two businesses and three children I’m fairly busy nowadays. I try to balance my time between family, children and charitable work.

I quit my legal career 10 years ago, around the time I gave birth to my first daughter. In 2013, I fell in love with Swedish stationery brand kikki.k during a trip to Australia, I decided to bring the brand to Hong Kong, we now have four stores here.

Kikki.k brings positivity to life. Colourful and practical stationery can brighten up anyone’s day and products such as our Goal-

setting and Gratitude journals encourage people to live life to the fullest.

I also started my own stationary design company, Bella’s Design Gallery. We focus on producing personalised stationery with fun and interesting designs, at local prices.

I’m busy but there is always time for food.

I love the new Wong Chuk Hang area, Bread & Bistro does great Japanese eel rice and soufflé pancakes, and I love the local-style milk tea.

Visit our online store for gorgeous personalised stationery designs at local prices. bellasdesigngallery.com

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 19

local

Deep Water Bay Beach renovation to be completed in March Much still needs to be done to bring our beloved beach back to its former glory, Vasavi Seethepalli reports

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D

eep Water Bay Beach took a battering during Super Typhoon Manghut in September last year, and facilities including lifeguard stations, showers and washrooms have remaining closed since. During the typhoon, huge waves and strong winds drew tons of sand almost a foot high, spewing debris onto the adjoining section of Deep Water Bay Road. The debris from the sea, fallen trees and damaged boats from nearby Victoria Recreation Club (VRC) were scattered across the beach and onto the road.

Clearing the beach of rubbish has taken more than two months. General manager of VRC said, “A considerable number of surf skis sustained serious damage from dislodged objects brought in by the waves and from falling trees. We give thanks to the Deep Water Bay Beach Management for their continuing cooperation during the clean-up efforts. Although substantial work remains to fully reinstate the Deep Water Bay Beach, the VRC is open and functioning”.

Management of Hong Kong beaches falls under the responsibility of the Leisure and Culture Services Department (LCSD) jurisdiction. A spokesperson for LSCD commented; “We have requested work on the recovery of damaged facilities including the first aid rooms, lifeboat shed, rescue boats, lookout tower, shark prevention nets and much more.

Electricity for some facilities including the kiosk and toilets has been resumed.

It is estimated that the sandy area and the BBQ pits will be re-opened to the public in mid-December [2018]. At the moment, top priorities are the beach office, public address system, changing rooms, shower facilities, and sewage system.”

Popular beachside restaurant, Lido was temporarily closed after the typhoon due to lack of electricity and Thai restaurant, Coconuts also suffered. Lily of Coconuts, said, “We did not expect the storm to be this horrific. Our business was affected as was everybody else’s, but we are so thankful to all the volunteers who came to clean the beach and help restore some normality”.

Fergus Fung, the Bay Area District Councillor commented, “We conducted a site meeting with the LCSD. We urged them to finish basic repair work in November last year, the full renovation is expected to be completed in March.”

community spirit

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cover story

MARATHON FITNESS 101 Photo credit: Standard Charter Hong Kong Marathon

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S

hanging inset, thego hood ready, day-tripping

tart the year off on the right foot, test your limits and sign up for a marathon. A wellplanned marathon provides the opportunity to focus on a personal challenge, to lose a few pounds and to raise money for charity.

It takes commitment, motivation and perseverance to train for the 42.195 km full and 21km half-marathon distance. If you’re looking to get a head start, we’ve got you covered with top tips from personal trainers and runners around Hong Kong.

Bybba Ortu Personal trainer Bybba has been a personal trainer for nearly 15 years. You can often see her training her clients at Hong Kong Park or at the Brewin Path.

Lace up your running shoes and head to the hills. Vasavi Seethepalli helps you prepare for a year of marathons.

A long distance runner has to consider several aspects to prepare for a marathon, the first is training, it’s best to start training early to maximise results. Lifestyle choices also play an important role; having the right food intake and plenty of rest is vital. Expect sore legs, sore feet, and the potential loss of a toenail or two when you first start.

You must plan ahead, set goals and be determined, but most importantly have fun!

You must enjoy whatever you do to stay motivated and achieve the best results.

As a personal trainer, I try to make sure that I offer something different each time.

Changing the exercise sets, environment

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 23

cover story and training equipment keeps my clients stimulated. I suggest working outdoors, as opposed to inside a gym. A lot of people tend to find gyms boring, and thankfully Hong Kong has a great outdoors!

Motivation tips: • Find the style of training that you most enjoy (solo or group, morning or evening etc.). You’ll be far more motivated to stick with something that fits into your lifestyle.

• Training with a partner who has a shared goal can provide support and helps you stay on track.

• Nutrition is key to motivation, what you eat pre (45 minutes), during and after (30 minutes) your workout is vital to fuel your training.

Juliet Hershey-Beatty Athlete and marathon runner Juliet is currently training for the Tokyo marathon. A Hong Kong resident, she has completed 30 marathons including two Ultra marathons.

best suit your body type and running style.

Always run the marathon in the same shoes you use for training - you don’t want to introduce anything new on the day. It’s also worth purchasing socks specifically made for running, you wouldn’t think that socks matter, but during a long run they make a huge difference in terms of comfort, support and preventing blisters.

Nutrition tips: • Bananas are one of my favorite foods when training - they have lots of vitamins and minerals and are perfect both before and after a run.

• Peanut butter is also very nutritious, it provides long-lasting energy and is great food for marathon training. Peanut butter sandwiches are my standard premarathon meal, I eat them a few hours before the race starts.

• Eat a lot of carbohydrates especially during the weeks of the longer runs.

• The heat in Hong Kong makes it especially important to hydrate. I generally do not drink while on training runs but instead hydrate throughout the day using Nuun electrolyte hydration tablets added to water.

What to consider when choosing your first marathon Timing: Factors relating to time of year including heat, humidity and your other commitments are key factors that will no doubt influence your ability to train.

2019 Destination marathons Jan 20 Gammon China Coast Marathon, Hong Kong Jan 27 Osaka Women’s Marathon, Osaka, Japan Feb 17 Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, Hong Kong Mar 3 Tokyo Marathon, Tokyo, Japan April 9 North Pole Marathon, Galway, Ireland May 19 The Great Wall Marathon, Beijing, China Jun 16 Phnom Penh Half Marathon, Phnom Penh, Cambodia Jul 6 Gold Coast Marathon, Queensland, Australia Aug 24 Helsinki Marathon, Helsinki, Finland Sep 6 Ladakh Marathon & Ultra, Ladakh, India Oct 13 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, Chicago, USA Nov 24 Mount Fuji Marathon, Tokyo, Japan Dec 1 Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon, Singapore

Location: Destination marathons are not ideal for first-timers as they need a lot of pre-planning and financially they cost more than a marathon in your own city or town.

With marathons closer to home you are able to practise a few times on the course before the big day.

There are so many different training plans you can follow. Most strategies will help you gradually increase the distance you cover each week, until you reach your goal.

You don’t need much in terms of gear - I think the most important thing is a good pair of running shoes and a fitness watch that measures pace and distance. It’s helpful to visit a running store where they will analyse your running stride, form and other factors to recommend shoes that

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Photo credit: Standard Charter Hong Kong Marathon

day-tripping

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 25

cover story Interview Ming Chen A serial marathon runner Ming Chen is an unassuming Hong Kong resident with a hidden secret. The 47-year old has completed over 60 marathons around the world, and she won’t be stopping anytime soon!

What keeps you motivated?

Having regular and reliable running partners to keep me company while training. Plus signing up to my next marathon gives me a goal and date to train towards.

What is your exercise routine before a marathon?

I run 8 km every day during the week and 16 km at weekends. Around two weeks before a marathon I add in one longer run of around 21 km.

How do you stay healthy and what kind of a diet are you on before a marathon?

I am an innately terrible eater. I am salt deprived, so I love chips. But when I train I eat healthy and I don’t drink alcohol. Every morning I drink cranberry juice with seltzer and a splash of fresh lemon.

What do you carry with you while running?

My iPhone which has Runkeeper to track my mileage on longer runs and podcasts if I am running alone. I love Sweaty Betty sports bras- they are super supportive with

Dr Simon Yuen from Gleneagles Hong Kong Hospital advises on marathon injuries

Course: Research the course before you register. All races are different, some could be flat, in the wild, on a trail or at an altitude which can be challenging, depending on your training.

no metal or fancy trimmings that can irritate your skin during high-impact sports.

What was your most memorable marathon?

China Coast Marathon was my 50th marathon, I had promised my husband that it would be my last. We had a big celebratory lunch with family, friends and running partners in Sai Kung, it was a lot of fun!

What is your ultimate goal?

My goal is to run 88 marathons, and I’m looking forward to running my 65th marathon this month. I look at marathons more as a long run than a race against time.

Do you run for a cause?

I ran the London Marathon for Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre, a free cancer support service with centres across the UK, as well as one in Tuen Mun. I am on the board of the Keswick Foundation, a charitable organisation which addresses social needs of people in Hong Kong and Mainland China and is also responsible for bring Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre to Hong Kong.

Distance: Figure out the distance that you are comfortable running, perhaps start with a half marathon.

50% of regular runners report having more than one injury each year, with foot and ankle injuries being the most common reported by long distance and marathon runners.

The most frequent problems marathon runners have are: • Knee: patellofemoral pain syndrome, iliotibial band friction syndrome (runner’s knee), hamstring muscle injuries • Leg: tibial stress syndrome (shin splint), stress fracture of tibia • Foot and ankle: achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, stress fracture of the metatarsal Runners can prevent these injuries by: • Wearing the appropriate footwear • Having the appropriate training schedule • Taking anti-inflammatory medications • Stretching (a proper warm up and cool down exercise) If you are running around Southside and find yourself in a bit of trouble, Gleneagles Hong Kong Hospital have a 24 hour emergency Outpatient & Emergency service. 1 Nam Fung Path, Wong Chuk Hang. gleneagles.hk

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Photo credit: District Race Hong Kong, 2018

day-tripping

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 27

village dining focus

Health Kick

Organic, vegan, gluten-free and so much more, Hong Kong’s healthiest spots nood food

Supafood

Linked to PURE Fitness, Hong Kong’s trendiest fitness centre chain, nood food is a great place to grab a healthy snack or meal on your way back to the office after a lunchtime workout. There are grab and go fridges offering cold-pressed juices, sandwiches and raw snacks, as well as a full-serviced café with a rotating salad bar, hot food and organic breakfasts. It’s a no fuss concept that makes healthy eating quick and easy. The coconut water is said to be the best bottled option in town! 32 Hollywood Road, Central. allnood.com

For a balanced meal at a healthy price, Supafood has you covered. This superherothemed takeaway spot offers savoury items like salads, wraps, coconut brown rice boxes and oolong tea soba noodle boxes. Meat and fish options are available, such as halibut with honey Sriracha and a grass fed beef bolognese.

However, the vegetarian options such as baked tofu with sweet miso and baked eggplant with balsamic are just as satisfying. For slow burning fuel, try the coconut chia pudding, carrot cake supaball or one of the smoothies. 1 Jervois St, Sheung Wan. supafood.co

Grassroots Pantry Believing that “good food doesn’t have to be bad for you and everything around us”, Grassroots Pantry uses unprocessed, sustainable and organic ingredients, to make their delicious breakfast, brunch and dinner items. They cater to most dietary preferences including raw, vegan, gluten-free, Buddhistfriendly and nut-free. Delicious and unique dishes include lemon chia seed pancakes, pulled jackfruit nachos and grilled tikka mushrooms with brown rice biryani. The earthy and minimalistic interiors give this restaurant a rustic and homey feel. 108 Hollywood Road. grassrootspantry.com

Knead A charming salad and sandwich shop in Sheung Wan, Knead gives back the power to the people. It’s a little bit DIY - you can build your own sandwich or salad, choosing from a selection of veggies, spreads, meats, cheese and more. The various breads (featuring everything from Turkish to quinoa loaf) are baked fresh daily. If you can’t decide, there’s a helpful menu that offers suggestions. Grab a beer from the fridge if you want to balance out those nutritious decisions. 28 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan. kneadhk.com

Locofama By working closely with Hong Kong’s local farms, Locofama uses organic fruit and vegetables which are free from any pesticides and chemicals. Their menu is designed for sharing or snacking with many small bites and fresh salads including, spicy sesame soba noodles, black truffle crab dip with toast and spicy spinach quesadillas. They also offer a range of natural and biodynamic wine, which include healthy probiotics and antioxidants, so you don’t have to feel guilty about that sneaky glass! 9-13 Fuk Sau Lane, Sai Ying Pun. locofama.com

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Farmers Choice Specialising in the ‘farm to table’ experience, Farmers Choice is all about healthy eating. With their own farm in Hu’nan, Farmers Choice grows their own organic products including seasonal vegetable sets at affordable prices. They also supply a range of salad boxes to their partner O Farm making it easy for you to stay healthy on the go! farmers-choice.com

kale yeah!

Pure Veggie house Tucked away in the heart of Mid-Levels, just a short walk from Hong Kong Park, Pure Veggie House is a Chinese restaurant that serves veggie-friendly dim sum and noodles. The interiors reflect nature with the use of green and brown shades and the menu echoes that same sentiment. Pure Veggie House serves up some of the best vegetarian dim sum in the city as well as a fantastic selection of teas.

If you’re visiting on a rainy day, the sweetcorn congee is comforting and packed full of flavour. 3/F, Coda Plaza, 51 Garden Road. facebook.com/ pureveggiehouse

Le Pain Quotidien ‘Le Pain Quotidien’ is French for ‘daily bread’; the restaurant places an emphasis on simpler times. LPQ tartaines are delicious, Chef Alain Coumont uses freshly baked bread as a canvas for organic and seasonal toppings such as beetroot hummus, smoked turkey and organic french toast. The bakery also serves a range of homemade sweet treats including carrot cake and banoffee crumble - after all, everyone deserves a treat once in a while. 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai. lepainquotidien.com

MANA! Fast Slow Food Serving up organic and plantbased fast food, MANA! Fast Slow Food, is one of Hong Kong’s most popular lunch-break spots specialising in vegan and vegetarian options. The menu has a range of baked and rolled signature flatbreads with a choice of fillings including tofu, falafel and avocado, vegetarian burgers and daily salads. The company have a strong believe that “food that doesn’t cost the Earth”, and have a zero-food-waste mentality using compostable and biodegradable packaging, complete with motivational messages inspiring proactive change. There is limited, but adequate seating with the back terrace particularly lovely on a sunny day. 92 Wellington Street, Central. mana.hk

Make your own plant-based MANA! Babylon Burger Ingredients (makes four patties)

Put it together

•

100g mixed mushrooms (shitake and chicken leg work well) 40g beetroot 40g rolled oats 30g tempeh 115g canned or cooked kidney beans One bunch spring onions One bunch fresh coriander, with stems

1.

A handful of flat-leafed parsley A good pinch of mint leaves A good pinch of flax seeds A teaspoon of sea salt A twist of black pepper A pinch of smoked paprika A pinch of Zaatar (available from Mana! stores) A couple of cloves of roasted garlic A pinch of cumin powder A pinch of dried chipotle pepper A pinch of dried chilli flakes 25g cooked quinoa

4.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

2.

3.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Slice mushrooms, coat with a little olive oil and grill until caramelized.

Pulse in food processor to a ‘rustic’ consistency.

Peel beetroot, cut into cubes and pulse in food processor until a fine dice is achieved.

Pulse oats in food processor until they resemble coarse flour.

Cut tempeh blocks into six rectangles each, deep fry, then break into smaller pieces and pulse in food processor to a rustic consistency.

Pulse kidney beans in food processor to a rustic consistency.

Roughly chop spring onions, fresh coriander, fresh parsley and mint leaves. Pulse in a food processor for a few seconds.

Place all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix thoroughly.

Mould into patties and fry immediately for two to three minutes on each side, or freeze until needed.

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 29

village nibbles dining focus

Winter’s a winner at Fratelli Artisan Pasta Bar Head down to Repulse Bay for some Italian winter classics

• •

Fratelli Artisan Pasta Bar has become a firm favourite amongst Italian-loving Southsiders since it opened at The Pulse last year. Now the team at 8 Creative, who are also responsible for Amalfitana and Rummin’ Tings celebrate colder evenings with a new winter menu. Head Chef Michel Degli Agostia and Chef Pradip Malbul serve up the details.

Head down for some comfort-carbs this January.

Why did you come up with a new winter menu?

With the onset of the cold weather, we felt it was time to introduce new and weather appropriate dishes. For example our four cheese Gnocchi is sure to warm our customers up on colder, winter nights! We also focused on adding more handmade pasta options to express our creativity through inspiration.

What is your favourite dish?

A classic Spaghetti Alla Carbonara with added truffle, while it’s in season. Truffles are such a decadent treat, you have to indulge on them whenever you get the chance!

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4 chocolate chips 1/4 cup Creme de cacao

Heat slowly in a large pan, garnish with citrus slice, cinnamon sticks, star anise and then enjoy on our behalf!

What is the most popular dish among the Southsiders?

For a classic, Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, but for something slightly different, Squid Ink Pasta is an exciting recent addition to our menu.

What is your winter fix?

Homemade mulled wine recipe, as served at Fratelli Artisan Pasta Bar. • 1 bottle of dry red wine • 1 orange, sliced into rounds • 8 whole cloves • 2 cinnamon sticks • 2 star anise • 2-4 tablespoons honey

kale yeah!

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 31

health body and & soul beauty

Love hair Making a conscious effort to minimise their carbon footprint, Love Hair uses a range of natural and eco-friendly products and treatments. The salon itself is decorated with eco-flooring, reclaimed wood shelving and screens to help you feel zen from the moment you step inside. The founder Toni Sutton-Marcus and the Love Hair team place an emphasis on long-term care for your hair as well as the environment. 99F Wellington Street, Central. lovehairhk.com

Happy New Year, Happy New YOU!

Hair by Blonde Boudoir

Out with the old, in with the new. Where to get your cut and colour this year Paul Gerrard Paul Gerrard and his international team are a firm favourite among the expat community.

The salon offers a range of high-quality hair treatments including semi and permanent colouring, straightening and conditioning.

Decor is modern and sleek and the coffee (or wine, depending on the time of day) keeps

on flowing. For men, Paul Gerrard also owns recently-renovated Selvedge Barbers directly across the road, the barbers offers highquality cuts and wet shaves accompanied by a great selection of single malt whiskeys and Japanese beers.1st & 2nd Floor, 33-35 Pottinger Street, Central. paulgerrard.com

Toni&Guy Celebrating 18 years in Hong Kong this year, Toni&Guy is an award winning hairdressers and product brand. Started by two brothers, Toni and Guy in 1963, the salon has since become a well-known face within the fashion industry and the official hair care sponsor of London Fashion Week since 2013. The brand has over 420 salons worldwide including two in Hong Kong. G/F, 15 Wyndham Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Central. toniandguy.com.hk

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Blonde Boudoir It’s no secret that quality highlights are hard to find in Asia. Enter new kid on the block, Blonde Boudoir. Founder Leona Brown hails from legendary Sydney salon, Joh Bailey, and opened her first branch of Blonde Boudoir in Singapore three years ago. Since then her team have built up a reputation for delivering high-quality, professional and precise colours and cuts. With an increasing number of clients travelling from Hong Kong, Tokyo and Shanghai to get their colours done, she’s

luscious body & locks soul gone all out with a second salon on Elgin Street. The Hong Kong team is headed up by Creative Director Felix Beck, a master stylist and colourist, with 20 years experience. “The day after a cut is the real tell” says Felix, “I want my clients to leave with a hairstyle that works for their lifestyle and looks good in weeks, and months to come.” Word is spreading among Hong Kong expats and what’s more, the salon floor is made entirely of silver glitter. High-end Kevin Murphy products, Olaplex treatments and killer martini’s (Felix was a professional mixologist back in Berlin) are on offer to compliment your cut and colour. 46 Elgin Stret, G/F, Central blondeboudoir.sg/hk-salon

hair, and you’ll change your life”. A great haircut that makes you feel beautiful and confident is priceless, so splurge on yourself, and enjoy the luxurious experience offered at Kim Robinson. Shop 106 - 107, G/F, Landmark Chater House, 8 Connaught Road, Central. kimrobinson.com

Hair trends for 2019 •

•

• •

•

Kim Robinson In the words of Kim Robinson, “change your

Glow Spa and Salon The popular spa and salon, boasts a range of cut and colour options including ombre and colour corrections. The recently renovated location is adorned with chic black and gold decor, creating a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city below. The

2019 haircuts are all about layers!

Whether your locks are short or long, with layers they will enjoy movement and bounce.

Braids are in… fishtail braids, halfupdo and big sexy waves are the way to go.

High-tone colours and metallic tones are in for 2019.

With Hong Kong’s humid climate, Brazilian blowouts and Keratin treatments improve manageability and are always in fashion in this part of the world.

Regardless of fashion, choose a style that compliments your lifestyle and your natural features including your skin tone and the shape of your face.

Mojdeh Kazemi runs Tala’s Hair and Beauty, 37 See Cheung Street. talashair.com

salon and spa are located in close proximity making it possible to get all your treatments done in just one sitting! Glow Spa and Salon 9/F Parker House 72 Queen’s Road Central. glowspa.hk

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 33

education

New Year, New Skills

From pottery to interior design, learn something new in 2019

Career Changing

D

o you ever look back and wish you’d learned how to paint? Or perhaps thought you would have been able to speak multiple languages by now?

Time seems to slip by so fast, and suddenly we aren’t as skilled or as knowledgeable as we thought we’d be. So why not make 2019 all about you, and finally learn how to do that thing you’ve always wanted to do.

The Open University of Hong Kong (OUHK) OUHK provides about 220 full-time and part-time programmes in a wide range of practical and professional courses from Art & Social Sciences, Business & Administration, Education & Languages, Nursing & Health Studies as well as Science & Technology. Apart from four campuses around Kowloon, a new learning facility, the Jockey Club Institute of Healthcare in Ho Man Tin will be completed in 2020. Main Campus: 30 Good Shepherd St, Ho Man Tin. ouhk.edu.hk

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

Insight School of Interior Design

The international college for creative minds, SCAD has 4 campuses offering full-time, parttime and less-than part-time creative-industry related degrees. But for those who are unable to gain access to a SCAD campus you can also go online. SCAD has been providing more than 15 online, e-learning courses for over 12 years.

292 Tai Po Road, Sham Shui Po. scad.edu

Insight School is Hong Kong’s only specialized interior design school where students are taught by international experts in the industry, and get to work on real life projects with real life clients. The school offers over 20 short courses on topics like Design & Styling, Feng Shui and Art & Interiors, all year round. For something more professional, there are parttime and full-time certificates and diplomas.

Courses start from $2,600. 24/F, Federal Centre, 77 Sheung On Street, Chai Wan. insightschoolhk.com

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aptitude for learning

Musical Instruments

Sports Aberdeen Boat Club

Harp

Aberdeen Boat Club has adult beginner sailing courses that you can enjoy during the weekends. Learn how to operate the “Pico” one-person dinghy and the “Laser 2000” two-person dinghy and sail from Aberdeen to Middle Island. You can sign up for the next sailing course in March 2019, members $3,100 and non-Members $4,650. 20 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, abclubhk.com

A relatively easy stringed instrument to learn, which emits a beautiful, haunting sound. The Hong Kong Harp Chamber offers classes for beginners and amateurs ($1,380 for four lessons) at its centres in Wan Chai and Jordan.

18/F CKK Commercial Building, 289 Hennessy Road Wan Chai. harpchamber.com

Pure Pure Yoga offers yoga enthusiasts and current teachers a wide range of workshops, retreats, and Yoga Alliance Accredited Teacher Training courses ranging from 25-hours CETs to 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training.

Tuition fees range from $3,500 to $56,000+.

Module drop-ins and morning intensive options available. Locations vary from Hong Kong to other Asian cities. pure-yoga.com/hongkong/ page/view/yoga_events

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 35

education Ukulele Fancy learning the guitar but dread the tricky chords? Try ukulele, a reduced version of the guitar with four strings instead of six and reachable notes that can minimise wrist tension. Parkland Music Institute with various locations runs a two-month Ukulele course ($215 for 60 minutes). 8/F Ginza Square, 567 Nathan Road, Mong Kok. parklandmusic.com.hk

Arts, Crafts & Baking

Private lessons also available. From $980.

Unit 602, 15 Queen Victoria Street, Central. hkphotoworkshop.com

Complete Deelite For the sweet tooths, Complete Deelite has many courses and workshops so you can show off your baking and decorating skills next time your friends come around. There is a huge selection of classes to choose from including decorating basics, seasonal workshops and even allergy friendly courses. 2/F, On Lan Centre, 11-15 On Lan Street, Central. completedeelite.com

Art Loop Art Loop has something for all aspiring artists, from beginners to those who want to become art teachers. They have a variety of adult art courses including drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture and art history. Come with your old friends or meet some new ones and learn in their gallery-environment. Unit 621 One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang. artloop.hk

classes for $1,000), and you’ll experience how this internal martial art can do wonders to your mind and body. 135 Bonham Strand Trade Centre, 135 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan. taichielite.com

Performing Arts M.int Academy

LÚMP Studio LUMP pottery studio is a community of potters and ceramic makers of all levels. Inside their big and bright workshop you will find dedicated areas and special equipment for pottery and stocks of different clays, glazes, oxides and slips. 11A, Gee Luen Hing Industrial Building, 2 Yip Fat Street, Wong Chuk Hang. lumpstudio.com.hk

Chinese culture Hong Kong Photography Workshop Grab your camera and get ready to shoot some great photos. With classes like Photography 101, Neon Nightcrawlers and Intro to Lightroom, photographers of all skill levels can explore Hong Kong in a new light under the guidance of professional photographers.

Class sizes are small with no more than eight students. Classes last three to four hours.

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Tea Appreciation Tea drinking is a refined activity for personal enjoyment or with fellow tea lovers. Homeland Tea Garden runs a two-hour introduction course on tea appreciation. 7 Mallory Street, Wan Chai. homelandteagarden.com

Tai Chi Sign up for a course at local Tai Chi schools such as Chen Style Tai Chi Institute (four

Cultivate your musical talent with M.int Academy, which provides private one-onone and semi-private classes for adults in more than seven different instruments. It’s never too late to pick up the instrument you dreamt of learning as a kid, or pick up where you left off years ago. Or grab a buddy and join the adult’s choir or acapella group. No auditions required. 19/F, Casey Aberdeen House, 38 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang. mintacademyhk.com

aptitude for learning

Languages French The French Conversation Club offers 1 hour practice sessions in small groups (3 to 6) from $200. 2F King Dao Bldg, 14 Burrows St, Wan Chai. frenchlessons.hk

Spanish

Twinkle Dance Company Twinkle Dance Company offer adult dance programs in both Contemporary and Ballet.

Experienced dance teachers will patiently and carefully instruct each movement, so you won’t feel overwhelmed, perfect for those who have a little or no dance experience. Twinkle Dance Company holds both Contemporary and Ballet classes for adults twice a week.

Shop 311, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road. twinkledance.com

HK Theatre Association aka HKTA HKTA offers 10 week acting courses throughout the year. For amateurs in both English and French languages. With professional coaches covering body exploration, voice work, teamwork and character building, they will bring out the inner talent in each individual. Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. hkta.org.hk

Courses for both adults and children ($3,800 for 20 hours) are available at The Spanish Academy.

Suite 701, Keen Hung Commercial Building, 80 Queen’s Rd E, Wan Chai. thespanishacademy.hk

Russian Russian Language Center in Sheung Wan offers Skype, private and group classes.

12/F, Kingdom Power Commercial Building, 3236 Des Voeux Road West, Sheung Wan. rlc.edu.hk

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 37

Snug as a bug in a rug

As the nights draw colder, nothing beats a nice rug to warm up your home. By Rachel Blundy

Antique

CREATIVE Rug Your Life A modern brand offering custom-made designs from its online store, Rug Your Life encourages customers to submit their own drawing for their bespoke design.

Spanish founder Nayla Ventura, 37, a mother-oftwo based in Clearwater Bay, started the company nine years ago while pregnant with her first child.

She wanted to create a rug for when her daughter arrived, using a picture drawn by her husband, but could not find a company who could create a bespoke design.

“I began speaking to suppliers and eventually I found one who was happy to make it. It was

Above: A watercolour work turned into a rug Right: A Kandinsky abstraction rug

38 | SOUTHSIDE.HK

incredible to unroll this rug just before my daughter was born!”

The creative mother reckoned other parents would likely appreciate the same service, so she set up a website for orders.

She has since branched out from colourful children’s rugs, and nowadays receives most of her orders from artists and interior designers seeking to create innovative rugs.

“More recently In my business, I am seeing a tendency towards natural materials and natural colours,” she says. “It is less bold and bright; I am seeing more earth themes. I personally really love colourful rugs, but I love the materials we are experimenting with now.” rugyourlife.com

Altfield This is a high-end store selling colourful antique Chinese carpets designed to bring a sense of character and cosiness.

Victoria Cheung, the brand’s sales and marketing manager, says Altfield’s old Chinese rugs are derived from a wide variety of sources, including Buddhist iconography, mythological symbols, as well as motifs found on imported and native textiles. Although the word “antique” may evoke images of expensive items, the precious items chez Altfield are reasonably priced. A circa 19th-century wool rug from Mongolia, for instance, costs around $10,000, and a circa 20th-century rug from Tibet, also made of wool, is in the same price range. 1101, 9 Queen’s Road, Central altfield.com.hk

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons; Tim Collins

home & living

elegance with rugs Tequila Kola

Modern

Founded by New Yorker Michelle Koller, this innovative brand has been supplying slick furniture and accessories to Hong Kong homes for more than a quarter of a century.

From that time, it has grown from a small shop in the Prince’s building in Central, to become one of the city’s leading independent furniture businesses. It aims to provide rugs which are both affordable and made from sustainable sources. In her rug collection, Koller, a graduate of Manhattan’s Fashion Institute of Technology, offers striking designs as well as more neutral shades.

Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing St, Ap Lei Chau tequilakola.com

Ovo Ovo offers modern, decorative rugs which are designed to make Hong Kong’s generally small apartments feel more spacious. Most of the store’s rugs are made from cowhide and incorporate minimal designs. The rugs intend to create balance within a contemporary home using natural accessories. “Tribe” ($10,800) is one of the popular items that combines various kinds of black cowhide, with the sense of layers and different textures bringing an elegant look. G/F, 1 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai ovo.com.hk

Rug maintainence

Traditional Al-Shahzadi Avais Ahmad is the proud third-generation owner of this decades-old rug store that specialises in hand-woven rugs. His grandfather launched the family business in Hong Kong in 1952. Al-Shazadi solely sells hand-woven rugs. “Hand-knotted rugs will outlive any machine made or hand-tufted rug,” Ahmad says. The company selects its rugs from abroad, from countries including Iran and India. The products feature a broad range of pricing options that suit different types of budget. A four-by-three-metre rug from Iran made of wool and silk on a silk base, for example, carries a price tag of $160,000, while a slightly smaller rug from India and made of 100 percent bamboo silk is only $8,500 but no less fetching. 265 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai alshahzadi.com

Persian Arts Owner Shah Luqman, whose family emigrated to Hong Kong from Pakistan in the 1950s, imports the bulk of his rugs from Iran and Afghanistan. He says his hand-knotted rugs are an investment which can increase in value over time. Some of his rugs are so intricately designed that they have taken up to two years to complete. “A well-made hand-knotted Oriental or Persian rug can include anywhere from 100 to 400 knots per square inch,” he says. “Because of this level of detail and craftsmanship, and because the weaving of hand knotted rugs is a dying art form, they can increase in value substantially over generations.” Luqman says he also prides himself on selling organic rugs which are “free of chemicals and synthetic fabrics.” 67 Wyndham St, Central, 2524 8901

1. What’s the best way to maintain the quality of a rug in humid Hong Kong?

According to Ahmad of Al-Shahzadi, on a sunny day once a year, put your carpet on a flat surface in direct sunlight for about two hours on each side. This allows the moisture to evaporate and also opens and softens the natural fibres of the wool or the natural silk. For day to day use, use a mesh under-padding, which creates air circulation between the floor and carpet.

Luqman of Persian Arts notes that 65 percent humidity and lower tends to be the perfect level to keep a carpet mouldfree. Also, try to keep the temperature low, at no more than 26 degrees Celsius, as heat can contribute to mould growth in carpet. Luqman also suggests turning vent fans on and leaving them on when there’s moisture in the room.

2. Is hoovering enough to keep a rug clean?

Ventura of Rug Your Life says it is necessary to vacuum-clean rugs regularly, but you should also take your rug to a professional cleaner every two years. When hoovering a rug, avoid using a very powerful vacuum cleaner, as it can damage the product. If a rug becomes stained, depending on the stain and the rug material, you will require a different cleaning product. A fruit juice stain should generally be tackled with clean warm water before dabbing on a solution of one teaspoon of approved wool detergent, with one teaspoon of white vinegar and one litre of warm water. See here for a full chart of cleaning products for individual stains: rugyourlife.com/en/stain-removal

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 39

big day out

How to Hok Tau?

Rory Mackay ventures deep into the New Territories in search of adventure

I

f you fancy exploring a hidden natural world that lays undiscovered, then a day trip out to Hok Tau Reservoir could be just what you are looking for. Located

within the innermost depths of Pat Sin Leng Country Park, it is a region that is as much unknown as it is remote. Fortunately it is easy to access via public transport and well worth

the effort to reach.

Nestled amongst rolling hills and forming the gateway to the northern parts of Pat Sin Leng Country Park, Hok Tau is truly rural. Life moves at a different pace here and the locals are as relaxed as you will come across in Hong Kong. It rubs off quickly and once there, you certainly won’t be in a rush to leave. Continue to venture into the higher peaks of Pat Sin Leng and discover hidden gems that lie within.

The simplest way to get there, other than driving, is to head into the northern New Territories on the MTR East Rail Line before disembarking at Fanling Station. From there, catch the 52B minibus that departs roughly every 20 minutes. Hop off the bus at Hok Tau Wai and make your way to the T-junction. Continue along the sealed road in a southerly direction following signs for Hok Tau Reservoir. The imposing ranges of Pat Sin Leng loom ever nearer and before you know it you’re in amongst the rocky peaks. After rising up, a dam wall and the impressive panorama of the lake held behind is unveiled; from this point onwards the adventure begins in earnest.

Keep right and climb the stairs following signs for the ‘Hok Tau Family Walk’. You will be quickly rewarded with stunning views across the lake below and mountains above.

The well maintained dirt path then delves under the forest canopy, into a realm where light fights its way through the lush vegetation emerging in ethereal rays. Every now and

Hok Tau

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hok tau

then, a glimpse can be caught through the undergrowth of the surrounding hills. Keep an eye out for some delightful wildlife, especially on the quieter weekdays.

There are a couple of ways to circumnavigate the reservoir - the simple way and the adventurous way. If you want to take the simple route, keep turning left and follow the well signposted Family Trail, which takes just over an hour to complete.

Alternatively, follow the signs for Sha Lo Tung to delve deeper into a genuinely remote portion of terrain. This route can take up to three hours depending on your speed and navigation skills. The land flattens out as you pass by abandoned Hakka settlements, mountain vistas and multiple streams.

Make sure to then take all left hand turns at junctions in the path if you wish to return towards Hok Tau. There is the option to continue south over Cloudy Hill and back to Tai Po, but I recommend heading back to Hok Tau Reservoir.

Back at the reservoir, you can either rejoin or continue along the Family Trail beside the lake. This final leg of the loop is particularly pleasant, walking along a flat paved surface under large shady trees that cloak the water’s edge. Have a breather and soak up the tranquil atmosphere and relaxing views across the water.

It’s perfectly feasible to walk the lakeside loop in a clockwise direction, but the anticlockwise adventure makes for the best

experience and simplest navigation. Once back at the dam wall, retrace your steps down the valley to Hok Tau village. Return travel from Hok Tau Wai is fairly simple being more or less the same way as when you came in. However it is probably worth catching a taxi back to the main highway near Fanling if possible to avoid waiting for a minibus.

This far-flung corner of Hong Kong has an incredible amount on offer for those who enjoy venturing into the wild; a day trip here serves up an insight into Hong Kong’s past and the full scope of her landscape.

Escaping to Hok Tau provides a peaceful retreat for those wishing to find space for reflection or satisfy a burning urge of wanderlust.

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 41

travel

Walking in

a winter wonderland An excursion through snowy Mongolia. By Nicole Slater

Dog Sledding

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W

“on an eight dog open slay...”

hen thinking of a winter destination, Mongolia isn’t usually the first country that comes to mind - but its vast landscapes and nomadic traditions make it somewhat of a winter wonderland. Lakes and rivers freeze over and open planes are blanketed in thick layers of snow - just like a scene out of The Snowman!

Mongolia is well-known for its vast remoteness, a lack of fences and other territorial measures contribute to the countryside being almost untouched by mankind. Perfect for travellers looking to escape the modern world and get back to nature. Areas once covered in grass now glisten in white, animals show off their woolly winter coats and fires are lit in cozy cottages.

For an authentic winter experience, the Tsolmon Ireedui Foundation (TIF) is organising a once-in-a-lifetime trip to experience a true Mongolian winter over Chinese New Year 2019.

TIF was founded in 2010 by Sai Kung resident Marc-Henry Lebrun and his Mongolian wife, Tsolmon. The foundation is dedicated to helping disadvantaged kids living in the slums of the country’s capital, Ulaanbaatar. By building a kindergarten TIF is

winter snorkelling wonderland in silfra

Horse riding

able to keep over 40 local children safe and warm during the day, while their parents go out to work. Their back-to-school programme also gives teenages a chance to escape poverty through receiving an education.

When talking about the local community, Marc-Henry Lebrun gushes, “They are amazing people, so welcoming and generous, so different from “us” but so similar at the same time. Visiting the nomads living in gers [yuts] and seeing them tend to their animals is a once in a lifetime experience

and very unique to this country.”

Those who join the trip will stay in the luxurious Terelj Mountain Lodge, complete with cozy fixtures and fireplaces, located inside the Terelj Natural Park. Throughout the day guests can brave the cold and enjoy a whole range of winter activities to keep them in the festive mood - even in February! Meet some of the winter wildlife and enjoy dog sledding and horse riding, and help burn off the last of those Christmas calories with hiking and skiing. A

Entering the ice cave A starry night at Terelj Mountain Lodge

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 43

travel

Kisses from furry friends Terelj Mountain Lodge

winters’ day wouldn’t be complete without tucking into some hearty local dishes including soups, stews and dumplings.

Mongolia can be quite a difficult and expensive country to navigate which is why TIF want to give people the opportunity to experience this wonderful location while at the same time, raising money to help the local community. For more information or to make a donation to the charity please visit tifcharity.org

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2019 Winter Mongolia Trip Dates: 5-10 February Price: $10,000 - this covers airport pick up, accommodation, activities and breakfast. Please note that guests also need to buy their plane ticket.

Profits: 1 00% of the profits from the trip go to fund the TIF kindergarten.

snorkelling in silfra

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woof

Ask a vet...

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

Our dog has been really down since our 13-year-old retriever died.

What can we do to raise her spirits?

I believe that our pet dogs and cats mourn the passing of other family members including their own species. I recommend whenever possible, let a pet view and spend time with a deceased family member. Let them know their friend has died. Don’t keep them wondering “why” their friend never came home one day. Talk to your dog and tell her what happened. If you have the ashes of your retriever please introduce them to your dog and see if that helps ease her pain.

When bringing in a dog from the UK, what are some changes in climate to consider and how can I help my dog settle in?

Bringing a dog into HK from the UK, a much cooler less humid climate, is preferably done at the cooler times of the HK year. Keep your dog in environmental temperatures between 20-24C and walk your newly imported and appropriately vaccinated dog at cooler times-’dusk or dawn’ ensuring you have preventative parasite controls in place. HK has a variety of parasites and diseases not common or unknown in the UK that can kill dogs especially those imports with no natural local immunity in place.

Since our older cat died recently our younger cat seems to have a new personality. Why is that?

Cats can definitely change and show a different personality after another cat in the same home environment passes away. They come out of their ‘shell’ and act quite different. Their behaviour changes and usually for the good.

Cats, like humans, live in social groups that don’t all get along with each other. When one cat dies the one left behind can change becoming a much more sociable cat, happy without stress from a fellow feline.

My leopard gecko has been taking several days to shed his skin instead of just one. Is he just getting old, or could something be wrong?

The normal time for a leopard gecko to shed its skin is about 24 hours so if yours is taking longer something could definitely be wrong. I’d look very carefully at the temperature and humidity in your terrarium because if it’s too dry you will need to add moisture. Also make sure rocks are available so your gecko can rub against them to help remove dead skin. In addition ensure he has appropriate nutrition at all times.

My rabbits had babies recently but when I went into the cage today they were gone, do rabbits eat their own children?

In one word yes they do! Rabbits are prey animals, easily stressed with a natural instinct for personal survival. So, if they are worried that they may become prey they will do whatever it takes to survive, including eating their own offspring. Although not common, it’s normal. If you want them to have offspring then I suggest you review their husbandry, nutrition and read up on kindling/giving birth.

Got a question for Dr. Pauline?

Email editorial@hongkongliving.com 48 | SOUTHSIDE.HK

woof

Walkies with Peewee and Fayfay

P

eewee and Fayfay are perhaps the sweetest dogs to grace the Stanley plaza. The two draw laughs and coos as they stroll along the promenade, looking as though they hadn’t a care in the world. Peewee is a corgi and they are affectionate smart dogs while Fayfay is a maltese and they are adaptable and friendly dogs. Both breeds are ranked high in the popularity chart.

At the sight of a hand, Peewee sniffs delicately and allows a pet behind the ears.

Ruby, their owner, has a treat in hand and Fayfay wanders over, smelling the food.

The two share an affinity for yoghurt and sweet potatoes. With a primarily homecooked diet, they look healthy and well-fed.

There are a few differences between them, Peewee doesn’t like swimming but Fayfay loves it! It certainly makes for interesting bath-times.

Stanley is a familiar stomping ground for the pair, walks are centered around the Plaza podium and waterfront promenade.

“We spend a lot of time in the mall and since it is so doggie-friendly, playdates are inevitable! We often eat at the restaurants by the harbour, where Peewee and Fayfay can enjoy their own home-cooked meals.”

As we wave goodbye, Ruby, Peewee and Fayfay amble across the square and their happy yips disappear into the distance.

Stanley

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 49

Photo credit: Donald Trung

designing hk

Drink Without Waste

Plastic bottles and airport water zones

operations. The MTR is already experimenting at several stations.

While the beverage industry will take voluntary measures to reduce waste, from changing packaging to experiments with individual takeback schemes, the Working Group is calling for an institutional framework to govern the administration, logistics and recycling. If each brand was to do their own system, the overall costs will be higher. Costs which will ultimately reflect in consumer prices.

Regulate packaging standards

The next steps

This agreement, announced in December 2018, was forged among leading producers, bottlers, importers, retailers, recyclers and NGOs after a year-long discussion following the formation of the Single-Use Beverage Packaging Working Group in September 2017.

The second strategy, to regulate packaging standards, is to homogenise all plastic bottles and liquid cartons and to only allow materials for which recycling facilities are available.

Doing so will allow the packaging to be processed into valuable feedstock such as PET and paper for new packaging and other products. Standards for recycled content are proposed to create a circular economy.

Regulations create an equal playing field for local producers and the importers (who bring in 40% of the beverages).

Four proposed strategies

Recover used packaging

Chaired by Designing Hong Kong, the Working Group is now under pressure to make sure the proposed four strategies are realised: to reduce, to regulate, to recover, and to recycle single-use beverage packaging.

The third strategy, to recover used packaging, is activated with a cash-on-return of the used packaging to be paid to whoever returns it.

Overseas success, and the high recovery rates of 85% for aluminium cans locally, has shown that used materials will be returned once there is a monetary value which can be redeemed easily.

Key questions to be sorted out in 2019 are how to set up the system efficiently, quickly, and cheaply. Decisions will need to be made.

What amount of cash should be payable for used beverage packaging? How much is the levy to be paid by producers to cover the cash-on-return and the logistics and recycling costs? Do we use reverse vending machines, incentivise the informal sector, or do both? While government is nearly ready with legislation for plastic bottles, how quickly can we agree on regulating other packaging to ensure there is no migration to non-recyclable materials? How can we get an independent authority with transparent accounts set up to govern the proposed ‘Drink Without Waste’ strategies and actions?

Much to do, but the first hard step has been taken – industry, NGOs and government are in working mode with a clear objective: To stop the five and a half million beverages packages going to waste every day. For more information and to pledge your support, go to drinkwithoutwaste.org or facebook/ drinkwithoutwaste

Four strategies to deal with beverage packaging waste are revealed

T

he beverage producers and bottlers of soft drinks and water have agreed to recover 70%-90% of the used packaging by 2025. That will be no mean feat: Less than 9% of plastic bottles and nil liquid cartons are recovered from the waste stream today. Over 80% of beverage packaging, or over 1.7 billion containers, were wasted last year in Hong Kong.

An increase in water dispensers The main action proposed to reduce packaging materials is to promote the rapid expansion of dispensers where people can refill their own bottles. The low hanging fruit is water. Research has shown that of the five and a half million packages which are discarded every day, more than one third were used for water. With safe water supply available throughout the city, dispensers providing free or paid refills can be expanded quickly.

The airport has done so throughout their

50 | SOUTHSIDE.HK

Increase capacity of local recycling facilities The fourth strategy is to see the development of a local recycling capacity for plastic (PET) bottles and for liquid cartons. Export is no longer seen as desirable nor sustainable. This will require support from government with land and licenses.

Designing Hong Kong is a non-profit organisation in Hong Kong which promotes interventions wherever it sees bad planning – at a territorial or district level, and wherever it sees that policies, processes or institutions are not working the way they should.

SOUTHSIDE.HK | 51

southside secrets

Stanley Mosque Visit the mosque within a prison

L

ocated inside the grounds of Stanley Prison, Stanley Mosque was the fourth mosque built in Hong Kong.

It was originally constructed for the 400 or so Muslim employees from presentday Pakistan and India who worked for the Prison Department during the colonial era.

The mosque was built on an east-west axis to face Mecca, Saudi Arabia - the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of Prophet Mohammed.

Initially, the Prison Department headquarters were at Arbuthnot Road, so most Muslim staff went to Jamia Mosque on Shelley Street for prayers. However, when the headquarters were relocated to Stanley Prison, there were calls to set up a new mosque near the prison. Prison authorities provided a piece of land which was used for daily prayers. A mosque was later built on the same land and opened on January 1, 1937.

Over the years, attendance at Friday prayers at the mosque declined from around 150 Muslim staff in the 1970s to just seven families in 1998. The Advisory Board of Antiquities and Monuments Office designated the mosque a Grade 1 historic building on December 18, 2009.

The sandy coloured mosque contains a prayer hall, veranda (from the Indian word

52 | SOUTHSIDE.HK

varanda) and courtyard, with a parking area in front. It is of particular note for its incorporation of various architectural styles, including Islamic, Ottoman, Saracenic, Moorish, Byzantine and Chinese.

It is also noteworthy for retaining much of its original appearance, particularly the exterior. The wall opposite the entrance has a niche or recess (called mihrab) that faces Mecca and indicates the direction in which the congregation should kneel and pray or prostrate themselves. To the side of the mihrab, there is a minbar or pulpit for the imam, or priest. A purdah screen separates the area reserved for women. Framed passages from the Koran hang on the walls of the prayer-hall.

The mosque is still in operation, mainly serving Muslim officers of the prison. It is also still of importance to Hong Kong’s Muslim community.

As the mosque is located within prison grounds, it is not generally open to the public, and visitors are required to gain prior permission. However, the Correctional Services Department permits the use of the mosque on Fridays or other special occasions

by Muslims other than its own staff.

For more information, visit iuhk.org

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column

How to say goodbye

Opinions, rants and useful insights. By Mrs. Backfire

I

t comes in waves, doesn’t it? The leaving parties and goodbye drinks.

The gift-wrapped HK souvenirs and ‘Bon Voyage’ posts. The tearful hugs and handwritten notes.

Hong Kong exits are more likely to be summer experiences: families wanting to make the change between school years, seasonal shifts, or older children moving onto boarding school, with or without parents in tow. But at the end of 2018, sadly, we got hit by a wave of departures. Eight (eight!) different ones in all. A veritable tsunami of goodbyes.

The leavers were a combination of friends moving on to new opportunities in Singapore, Canada and Dubai as well as other friends returning to their roots in England, Australia and New Zealand.

They weren’t all see-you-everyweek, close friends. Some I’d lost touch with as I changed jobs or they moved neighborhoods, and of course, we were all busy with kids and work. Some I’d catch up with maybe once, twice a year—pitch-side or at Christmas drinks or Clockenflap—though when we were together, it felt like we’d seen each other only days ago. Nevertheless, their farewell news and leaving party invites triggered in me a sharp and sudden pang of loss followed by a moment of introspection. Yet another friend is going, yet another family to wave adieu to, yet one more person who’ll become but a virtual presence in my life.

The December exodus also prompted a flurry of clicks as I searched up songs of farewell while writing this column.

Not surprisingly, goodbye tunes are universal. And while most songs are directed at lovers—with themes ranging from please don’t leave me so I can’t quit you to get the hell out, go—they still make sense when you’re moving from one goodbye drinks party to another.

Herewith a sampling: Hong Kong legend Alan Tam made a plea to ‘Don’t Say Goodbye’ (I’m with you Alan!) while Juno Mak sadly ‘Never Said Goodbye’ and Wang Leehom would like a ‘Kiss Goodbye’. K-pop group iKON travel the ‘Goodbye Road’ (expats too?) along with the iconic Elton John who famously said ‘Goodbye Yellow Brick Road’ after he ‘finally decided my

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Regretfully they tell us But firmly they compel us To say goodbye To you… future lies beyond the yellow brick road’.

Why does it feel like he could be talking about folks leaving our larger-thanHK-lifestyle for the Kiwi countryside?

American Ella Fitzgerald is one of many, including Lady Gaga, Dinah Washington and Julie London, who die a little and wonder why a little ‘Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye’ while Britpop’s Sam Smith doesn’t seem proud of the fact that he’s ‘Too Good At Goodbye’. He might find himself at home in Hong Kong. French legend Françoise Hardy hits the nail on the head when she says ‘It Hurts To Say Goodbye (Comment te dire adieu)’, but when Canadian Avril Lavigne digs deep to declare ‘Goodbye’, she sounds both sad and happy. Like friends exchanging their 1,200 sq ft Ap Lei Chau apartment and the HK buzz for two stories, four bedrooms, a garage and a backyard (sigh) under clean and clear skies. And finally, I think we can all agree with the Jackson 5, Gloria Gaynor, The Communards, Vanessa Williams and George Benson, and Teresa Carpio and George Lam when we ‘Never Can Say Goodbye’. Be it to a true love, perfect flat, vibrant city or loyal group of friends.

But it’s an occupational hazard for expatriates—this leaving thing—and we’ve gotten pretty good at it: packing, shifting, moving, readjusting, giving away all of our extra booze, and then saying goodbye.

With our kids getting older, my husband and I have started talking about our own exodus. We still have a few more years to go, so no doubt we have many more leaving parties to attend.

It’s not a happy prospect to consider— more goodbyes. Sometimes I look around at my friends and think: well, if she goes it’ll break me. Who will I walk the Southside promenade or Aberdeen country park trails with? Who will pop

round for a glass of white and a whine on a Thursday night? Other times I want to say: don’t let the door hit you on the way out (not really, no, well maybe). I’ve cried, gotten drunk and made messy emotional speeches at friends’ farewells, but somehow, after that last hug, I’ve managed to move on. Funny how the human heart works. But even though my sad feelings fade and I make do eventually, the odd thing is, as long as I’ve lived in Hong Kong, it doesn’t get any easier.

And yet, like you dear reader, I’ll continue to make connections. I may be pretty good at saying goodbye, but I can also do a damn fine Hello.

Now that’s a playlist for another time.

Mrs. Backfire is - in the words of John Hughes - a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess and a criminal (well, just that one time and I do regret it). You can see me as you want to see me ;)

o t y Read !

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