EASTER CAMPS | FAMILY | RUGBY 7’S | TRAVEL
April 2019
Let’s brunch Egg-cellent easter brunches
Om your way around Southside The best yoga and meditation classes
beat the heat
HUMIDITY HACKS YOU NEED TO KNOW
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The really useful magazine April 2019
4 SNAPPED!
Egg-cellent Easter brunches. Plus nibbles
6 THE PLANNER
38 SPORTS
What’s on in April
The ultimate Rugby Sevens guide
12 MUST HAVE THIS MONTH
42 HEALTH & BEAUTY
Tea and cake accessories
14 NEWS
Hot days are fast approaching. You need these humidity hacks
44 TRAVEL
What’s happening in our backyard
16 FIVE MINUTES WITH...
The phantastic Philippines
48 ZIM CITY
Executive Chef of Zuma, Oscar Luzon De Arcos
50 PETS
Plans for a Cyberport expansion
20 COVER STORY
Hidden monument at St. Stephens College
56 MRS BACKFIRE
Easter camps to keep the kids entertained
12
Cash-for-college-admissions
32 BIG DAY OUT
Dr Pauline answers your pet questions. Plus walkies
52 SOUTHSIDE SECRETS
Where to downward dog in the Southside
24 EDUCATION
20
Paul Zimmerman rediscovers lost trails
18 LOCAL
34
34 DINING
Southsiders out and about
Explore Castle Peak in the New Territories
14 32
51 “SPRING IS NATURE’S WAY OF SAYING, ‘LET’S PARTY!’ — ROBIN WILLIAMS
38 SOUTHSIDE.HK | 1
editor’s letter
M
aintaining your zen can be difficult in such a busy city, so we’ve dedicated this month’s issue to the importance of wellness. Southside has so many unique yoga classes to help you relax and unwind, say namaste on page 20. Easter is a great time to indulge, enjoy hearty brunches and egg-cellent dishes on page 34 or if your guilty pleasure is more on the sweet side, try a chocolate afternoon tea on page 35. Whether you’re a fan or not, there’s no escaping the rugby fever this month. We’ve got the ultimate guide to all the Rugby Sevens action from both inside and outside the stadium on page 38. With the summer months looming and the humidity creeping in, there’s no better time to get a handle on your hair, follow our humidity hacks on page 42 to stay looking fresh all summer long. Wishing you a fabulous four day weekend with plenty of chocolate!
Editorial
Managing editor Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Editor-at-large Vasavi Seethepalli, vasavi@hongkongliving.com Editor Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Contributing editor Becky Love, becky@hongkongliving.com Editorial assistant Nicole Cooley, ncooley@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
Event executive Ran Chan, ran@hongkongliving.com
Sales & Marketing
Director of Partnerships Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Senior Sales & Marketing executive Isamonia Chui, isamonia@hongkongliving.com Sales & Marketing executive Corrie Tang, corrie@hongkongliving.com Mathew Cheung, mathew@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, Rory MacKay, Holly Annie Black, Shreena Patel
Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772
...Enjoys writing stories, bingeing Netflix and obsessing over crime podcasts. What are your plans for the Easter holiday? I am currently baking a baby so I’m looking forward to taking some time to myself over the Easter break which will include snacking, bingeing Netflix and sleeping in every day.
Apple Lee ...Catch her binge-watching Julia Roberts flicks, lip-syncing to Jay Chou and struggling to cure her social media addiction. What are your plans for the Easter holiday? Easter egg hunts may be out of the picture, but there’s no stopping me from stuffing my face with lots of chocolates. Happy Easter everyone! Enjoy this well-deserved four day break.
Paul Zimmerman ...Our local district councillor and author of Zim City. What are your plans for the Easter holiday? I’m taking a break from my phone and heading outdoors! If the winds are good I’ll fly the paraglider. Strong winds and rain means hiking instead. Happy Easter to all!
Want to write for Southside Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 2 | SOUTHSIDE.HK
Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong
HONG KONG hongkongliving.com
Cover photo by Flex studio
Becky Love
Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
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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say cheese Snaps from Southside
Valley Fort Mini Rugby Festival
Photo credit: Karin Bremer
SOUTHSIDE.HK | 5
planner
APR 5-7
Hong Kong Rugby Sevens Rugby madness descends on Hong Kong for a weekend filled with chaos, excitement and lots of wacky costumes! Hong Kong Stadium, 55 Eastern Hospital Road, Causeway Bay. hksevens.com
EVERY FRIDAY Live Latino Band
Live Latino music every Friday evening at Above by Komune. 7-9pm. 64 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen. komune.com.hk
for $270. Conrad Hong Kong, Pacific Place 88 Queensway. asiacontemporaryart.com
UNTIL APR 13
Women’s Five Run & Fun Fitness Programme Go on a journey of fitness with Women’s Five during their five week fitness programme to prepare for a 5km or 10km run. $800-880 for the run and fitness program, $390420 for run only. Aberdeen Country Park. womensfive.com
UNTIL APR 4
The 43rd Hong Kong International Film Festival
UNTIL APR 1
Asia Contemporary Art Show As Asia’s hub for contemporary art, Hong Kong invites a platform for international art lovers to join together and appreciate over 2,500 pieces of artwork. Opening times vary. 2-for-1 tickets including complimentary drinks
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One of the largest cultural events in the city braces the cinematic scene. Tickets from $55. Several locations including the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and Hong Kong Science Museum. hkiff.org.hk
UNTIL APR 28
Portrait of Hong Kong by Fan Ho
A selection of previously unpublished photos, including some rare vintage pieces. 11am6pm. Blue Lotus Gallery, 28 Pound Lane, Sheung Wan. bluelotus-gallery.com
UNTIL APR 30
Paws by the Sea 2019 Take part in Paws by the Sea and a whole range of activities with Hong Kong’s first seaside doggie speed dating, a Guiness World Record attempt, a doggie wedding expo, Instagram opportunities for dogs, training, educational workshops and more.
happening in April Free. Email pawsbythesea2019@eventist. com to register. Stanley Plaza. 23 Carmei Road, Stanley.
APR 6-7
Bug Symphony: The Musical
Pinch punch first of the month. Don’t get fooled!
Hear and see musical wonders in a bug’s world! Free pre-show activities include face-painting, kids’ tattoos and a live bug exhibition. Saturday 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Sunday 2.30pm. $250-550. Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall. bugsymphony.com
APR 3
APR 7 & APR 28
A three and a half hour food and culture tour, exploring Kowloon and the New Territories. Children $225, Adults $495. eventbrite.com
Part of Hong Kong’s running scene since 2003, the 2019 sprints start with a 12km Sai Kung trail on April 7 and a 9 km and 12 km trail in Discovery Bay on April 28. actionasiaevents.com
APR 1
April Fool’s Day
Grass Routes Vegetarian Food and Cultural Tour
APR 3
Salon Unplugged Inspired by MTV Unplugged Sessions, Awn and Phil.d and their band play a selection of their favourite tunes from Freddy Mercury to Bob Marley. 9pm. $200. Salon 10, 10 Arbuthnot Road, Central. pelago.events
APR 4
ESF Primary Choral Concert 2019 Students from ESF Primary Schools will come together to showcase their amazing singing talents. 7-9pm. Tickets start at $200. Queen Elizabeth Stadium, Morrison Hill. urbtix.hk
APR 5
Ching Ming Festival Also referred to as Tomb Sweeping Day, the traditional Chinese festival celebrates ancestors and is another public holiday!
Bonaqua Action X SPRINT Trail Series
Entrepreneur support groups and how and where to begin for Mums in Hong Kong. 10.30am-12.30pm. Paperclip Entrepreneur Campus, Sheung Wan. eventbrite.com
APR 13
Sonar Festival Pioneering festival from Barcelona celebrating music, creativity and technology. Workshop participation may be subject to additional fees. Hong Kong Science Park, Sha Tin. sonarhongkong.com
APR 8
John Mayer Asia Tour Experience John Mayer’s first live concert in Hong Kong. Tickets from $500. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. livenation.hk
APR 11
Anne-Marie Live in Hong Kong The UK rising pop-star who is best known for her hits, ‘2002’, ‘FRIENDS’, ‘Rockabye’ and ‘Ciao Adios’ will perform in Hong Kong. Tickets from $588. Macpherson Stadium, 38 Nelson Street, Mong Kok. hvenue.cityline.com
APR 11
At a Crossroad? Back to Work or Be an Entrepreneur?
APR 13
Hong Kong International Schools World Fair The World Fair brings together the community to celebrate diversity with carnival games, a bouncy castle, used book sales, a World Cafe and more. Free complimentary bus available from Central, Southside and Ocean Park MTR. 11am-3pm. Free. Hong Kong International School, 1 Red Hill Road, Tai Tam. hkis.edu.hk
Hong Kong Living Easter Fair Hong Kong Living will host an egg-tastic Easter fair complete with an Easter egg hunt, bowling, craft workshops, games and much more. 12-4pm. Tickets $99 per child which includes free entry for two adults. Tikitiki Bowling Bar, 4/F, Centro, 1A Chui Tong Road, Sai Kung. hongkongliving.com/shop
APR 13
APR 5
Ladies’ Long Lunch Kick off the weekend and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of glitz and glam with hosts, Penguins Rugby. Since 2010 this annual event has raised over $9 million for underprivileged children. Contact hongkong@cncf.org for last-minute availability. Grand Ballroom, Aberdeen Marina Club, 8 Sham Wan Road.
APR 6
Spring Race A 14km race starting and ending in Tai Tam. Compete against participants of the same age with prizes and trophies awarded in each category. Entry from $200. xterace.com
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planner APR 13
APR 19
Restore, regenerate and reconnect with nature on this sensory forest walk completed with a tea ceremony using foraged tea leaves. 8.30am-12.30pm. $320 for individuals, $480 for pairs. Starting from Sai Kung. For tickets email connect@kembali.org
Hot cross buns and a four day weekend!
Forest Medicine Walk
APR 22
wellness. With a mindful detox flow and chakra clearing meditation to purify mind and body. Standard price $1,618. Pure Yoga, Millennium City 5, 418 Kwun Tong Road, Kwun Tong. allnood.com
Enjoy the egg-tra long weekend!
APR 28
Good Friday
Easter Monday
APR 24
East Meets West Fashion Show 2019 Hong Kong designers embrace diversity at this fashion show. Designers include Loom Loop, Gonats, Ika Butoni, LvO, Baysiclove Resort Wea, and Caya. 6.30-8pm. $1,000. The American Club, 28 Tai Tam Road, Tai Tam. awa.org.hk
APR 27
Tin Hau Festival
APR 13-14
The Conscious Festival by Green Is The New Black A zero waste festival, that’s fun and sustainable for all the family. With inspirational talks, markets, food stalls and live-music. Tickets from $185. Kerry Hotel, 38 Hung Luen Road, Hung Hom Bay. greenisthenewblack.com
APR 14
Discovery Bay Sunday Market Pop on by and grab some goodies at this monthly waterfront market. 11am - 6:00 pm. Discovery Bay Plaza, Lantau. handmadehongkong.com
APR 14
The Lamma International Dragon Boat Festival Hosted by The Lamma Dragons and Thirsty Horse, watch a day of friendly on-the-water competition, then join the celebrations at the beach-side after party! Tai Wan To Beach, Lamma Island. lamma500.com
APR 14
Lamma Island Hike Cleanup Ploggers and Helpers Choice invite you to help clean up Lamma Island. 11am-3pm. Meet at Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier. Free. Register at eventbrite.com
APR 17-18 Ed Sheeran
Now this is one we can all get excited about! Ed Sheeran, one of the world’s best selling music artists, is coming to Hong Kong as part of his world tour. From $888. Fantasy Road Outdoor Venue, Disneyland. hkticketing.com
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The birthday of Tin Hau, Chinese Goddess of the Sea is celebrated on the 23rd day of the 3rd month in the Lunar Calendar. Vibrant and colourful celebrations including parades, marching bands and dragon dancing will be held across the 60 or so Tin Hau temples in Hong Kong.
APR 27-28
2-Day Cleanse with Heidi Poon Join this 2-day cleanse workshop to learn how diet can impact and support yoga practice as well as physical and mental
IRIS Festival
YOUTH ALPHA - Explore the Meaning of Life The start of a 9-week series of interactive sessions to discuss life’s toughest questions. Each week a different topic will be discussed, such as ‘Life, is this it?’ and ‘How can I have faith?’’. 6-8pm. Resurrection Church, Sai Kung. resurrection.org.hk
APR 28
Mud Race 2019 Tackle seven muddy obstacles over a 3.5km or 6km course. Join as an individual or enter as a team. Ages 12 and up. 9am6pm. Entry fees vary. Tai Tong Ecopark, Yuen Long. mudrace.com.hk
APR 29
Kraftwerk 3D Show Grammy winner and electro-pop pioneers, Kraftwerk, bring their 3D show to Hong Kong. 8pm. Tickets from $680. Star Hall, Kowloonbay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, 1 Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay. livenation.hk
APR 27-28
This two-day festival which celebrates health and wellness is back for its eighth edition. Enjoy yoga, meditation, fitness, a silent disco and a kids area. Saturday, 10.30am - 9pm, Sunday, 9am - 6pm. Central Harbourfront Event Space. irishkg.com
happening in April Rooftop yoga and brunch
APR 21
Fancy a different kind of free-flow? Enjoy a core flow rooftop yoga session led by Flex Studio at Above by Komune followed by a special healthy detox brunch which includes semi-buffet, main and desserts. 11am-3pm. $400. Komune, 64 Wong Chuk Hang Road. komune.com.hk
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planner
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book now
BOOK NOW MAY 4
Chinese Academy Education and Admissions Seminar Join Chinese Academy education seminar “Effective Bilingual Immersion Strategies” and learn about the admissions process for the 2019/20 year. 2.30-4.30pm. Free. 77 Caroline Hill Road, Causeway Bay. caps.edu.hk
MAY 25
Shrewsbury International School Talk & Tour Learn more about Shrewsbury International School’s unique primary focused and purpose built facility for children aged 3-11. 10am. To book email admissions@shrewsbury.hk or call 2480 1500. shrewsbury.hk
community of yogis. Expect workshops, exhibitions, classes and much more. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. asiayogaconference.com
MAY 25
Spartan Race Test your endurance in the world’s biggest obstacle race. Run, climb, push, pull, throw and crawl through mud and barbed wire. Registration is now open for adults and kids. Ping Shan, New Territories. spartanrace.hk
JUN 29 - JUL 3
Tsolmon Ireedui Foundation summer trip Join The Tsolmon Ireedui Foundation (TIF) on a five-day trip in the countryside of Mongolia. It will be a fun-filled event for families with a host of activities including horse riding and hiking. Funds raised will go towards supporting disadvantaged children. tifcharity.org
JUN 5
JUN 13-16
Professor Brian Cox UNIVERSAL World Tour 2019
Bringing together yoga masters, teachers and students to inspire the ever-growing
Hong Kong for the first time ever, British Professor Brian Cox, OBE, comes to Hong Kong to explain the comings and goings of
Asia Yoga Conference
our Universe. 7.30pm. Tickets from $550. Star Hall, Kowloonbay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, 1 Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay. premier.hkticketing.com
Got an event? We can publish the details. Email editorial@hongkongliving.com
SOUTHSIDE.HK | 11
must have this month
Show off your Easter bakes with these tea party accessories
‘Cheers!’ Coaster Set $238 from G.O.D. god.com.hk
Smeg KLF03 Kettle $1,800 from Fortress fortress.com.hk
Metal And Glass Tray $399 from Zara Home zarahome.com/hk
Classy Gold Serving Tray Table $3,980 from Tequila Kola tequilakola.com
Banyan Bamboo Woven Tray $138 from Verdee Bamboo verdeehome.com
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Bone China Porcelain Coffee Mug and Saucer $129 from Zara Home zarahome.com/hk
par-tea Maxwell & Williams Primavera Coupe (16 piece set) $1,185 from Indigo Living indigo-living.com
Copper-coloured Cutlery with Flat Handle $39-$59 each from Zara Home zarahome.com/hk
Sara Miller Three Tier Cake Stand $749 from Indigo Living indigo-living.com
Animal Stump Cup Cover - Rabbit $90 from Francfranc francfranc.com.hk
Artisan Tilt-Head Mixer $5,480 from KitchenAid kitchenaid.hk
Floral Waffle-Knit Tea Towel $129 from Zara Home zarahome.com/hk
Imperial Eden Teapot $3,850 from Lane Crawford lanecrawford.com.hk
SOUTHSIDE.HK | 13
news
Free rides on the Ngong Ping cable car Resumption of Green Minibus Routes 36X and 37
Photo credit: Alexander Savin (Flickr)
Hong Kong Island Green Minibus services 36X from Ap Lei Chau to Causeway Bay and 37 from Ap Lei Chau to Lei Tung Estate, will resume service on April 7. Both bus services were suspended in January last year. Bus 36X will run from 6am to 11.55pm (fare: $7.5) while bus 37 will run from 7am to 9pm (fare: $4.5). For more information about the routes visit td.gov.hk
Residents who hold a valid Hong Kong Identity Card containing two out of the three digits; 3, 6 or 0 can get one free return ride on the Ngong Ping cable car during the month of June. The card holder will receive a free single or round trip in a standard cabin, whilst three travellers
Professor Brian Cox to appear live on stage in June On June 5, the Asia leg of Professor Brian Cox Universal World Tour 2019 will kick off in Hong Kong. The renowned British scientist, author and broadcaster, Professor Brian Cox, OBE, will offer a fascinating insight into the Solar System and the Universe, making challenging ideas accessible to all. He will be joined by Robin Ince, an award-winning comedian and co-host of Cox’s popular BBC Radio 2 show, The Infinite Monkey Cage. Cox states: “I hope it’ll offer people a completely new perspective on our place in the Universe.” Tickets available at premier.hkticketing.com
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in the same group will receive 20 percent off a single or round trip. The ride must be booked at least two days in advance through the official Ngong Ping website. The free or discounted rates will be first come, first served for the first 30 people each day. np360.com.hk
The Harbour School wrestlers win gold
28 wrestlers from The Harbour School (THS) recently travelled to Singapore to compete in the annual Singapore National Trials, 2019. 19 THS students won matches which accumulated to 10 bronze, six silver and three gold medals. “The coaches are extremely proud of the resilience and determination shown by all of our wrestlers, not only during
the competition itself but also in the training sessions leading up to it. The hard work put in beforehand led to success on the mat, and so many wrestlers left with huge smiles on their faces whether they won or lost their matches.” said Julian Buck, THS wrestling coach and physical education coordinator. ths.edu.hk
in your backyard
Shark spotted at Shek O On March 13, a shark sighting was reported 400 meters off the coast of Shek O Beach. Reports of the shark, which was suggested to be up to two meters in length caused quite a ripple amongst beachgoers and the area was evacuated after a worried civilian called the police. Officials found no trace of the animal and concluded the
Shark attack -
sighting was ‘miscellaneous’. Keen swimmers were allowed back into the water shortly after the area had been searched. The shark nets at Shek O beach have only recently been repaired following damage caused by Typhoon Mangkhut late last September. If you spot a shark or unidentified animal, call local authorities on 999.
Significant shark incidents in Hong Kong throughout the years • June 1991: A 65-year old female was swimming at Silverstrand Beach, most likely a tiger shark bit her in the abdomen and one of her legs was severed in the attack. • June 1991: An unnamed fisherman had his arm bitten off and later died in a shark-related incident off the coast of Sai Kung area. • June 1991: A 22-year old male was attacked and killed at Basalt Island in Outer Port Shelter. • May 1993: A female goes missing from Silverstrand Bay and was never found, assumed to be taken by a shark. • June 1993: A 61-year old male was attacked off Silverstrand Beach after ignoring shark warnings; his arm and leg were bitten off.
Photo courtesy of: sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck
sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck turns eight!
Hong Kong’s only indoor observation deck, sky100 is celebrating its eighth birthday this month. The deck, which is located on the one hundredth floor of the International Commerce Centre (ICC), offers 360-degree views of the city as well as multimedia exhibits. To celebrate, sky100 will offer a series
of deals from April 1 until June 30, including a 30% discount on tickets for all Hong Kong residents, simply present your HKID card. The lucky few whose HKID number includes an eight can enjoy a free No.8-themed drink at Café 100. For more information visit sky100.com.hk
Hong Kong Taxi Council announces new taxi app Following the recent news that a Hong Kong taxi firm had reportedly pulled out on their planned collaboration with Uber, the Hong Kong Taxi Council announced a new app called eTaxi, that will go live in the coming months. The app, which will be fully legal and operate on no commission, ultimately plans to include all 40,000 taxi drivers
• June 1995: A 44-year old teacher, and former Asian games competitive swimmer, was attacked whilst scuba diving near to Silverstrand Beach. His body was found in full scuba gear, in just three metres of water, he was missing a leg. • June 1995: A 29-year old male hairdresser was attacked whilst swimming off the coast of Sheung Sze Wan. He eventually died as a result of his injuries which included severe tissue loss on his upper thigh. • June 1995: A 45-year old female had her arm and leg bitten off by a tiger shark in Clearwater Bay. Significant as it was, this is the last known attack in Hong Kong. • Since 1995, there have been reported sightings but no further shark attacks in the waters surrounding Hong Kong.
registered in Hong Kong. “There will also be no overcharging or refusing fares” a spokesperson for the Hong Kong Taxi Council has declared. The app is said to have features that the Uber app does not, such as a voice order function and taxi call centre support. No date has been set for the release of the app.
SOUTHSIDE.HK | 15
five minutes with Oscar’s must-try dishes at Zuma “These dishes together offer a wonderful combination of flavours from fresh citrus to spice, it makes for a very special and elegant taste.” 1. Salmon and tuna tartare with caviar
2. Sliced yellowtail, green chili relish, ponzu and pickled garlic
3. Miso marinated black cod wrapped in hoba leaf
5 minutes with Oscar Luzon De Arcos Executive Chef of contemporary Japanese restaurant, Zuma Zuma has taken me around the world. I’ve worked in their restaurants in London, New York, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, so I was thrilled when they offered me the opportunity to join their team in Hong Kong. I’ve lived in Hong Kong for six years now, I think it’s one of the best countries in the world, with some of the best food in the world. Growing up in a Spanish family, I spent a lot of time in the kitchen, I got into cooking and choosing ingredients at a very young age. Good food brings people together, especially in my family. We prepare meals, cook and eat all together.
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I am constantly getting inspiration for new dishes whilst travelling, there are so many new ingredients and combinations to play with.
The products and ingredients imported here are unbelievable, it’s one of the reasons I’ve stayed for so long.
Japanese cuisine has always fascinated me, The correct seasoning is the key to any dish, the chefs know how to pair ingredients and create if I don’t have the right seasoning I can’t cook a unique flavour combinations to make the best dish. dish properly. Hong Kong’s location means there’s a lot of influence from around the world, we have the best dim sum but also the best Italian food, in one city! Competition between restaurants in the city is healthy. There is always a new restaurant and concept on the scene and it’s great to be able to try it out.
My favourite meal is rather simple, rice with wild mushrooms. Sometimes less is more when it comes to flavours.
Zuma Level 5, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central. zumarestaurant.com, 3657 6388
SOUTHSIDE.HK | 17
local
Cyberport expansion The expansion of Cyberport 5 hopes to bring more technology companies to the area
L
ate this February, The Financial Secretary, Paul Chan announced that $5.5 billion of the 2019 budget will be allocated to the expansion of Cyberport’s facilities, with the addition of a new office building. The proposed building will be 11 storeys high and cover a total floor space of 66,000 square metres. Facilities will include office and co-working spaces, conference venues and data service platforms. The fifth installment at Cyberport will cover a quarter of the popular waterfront park. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2021, with 2024 being estimated as the earliest completion date. Once finished, the new build will change the aesthetics of the waterfront due to its height compared to other buildings closeby. As Hong Kong’s technology hub, Cyberport is currently home to four other office dedicated technology buildings which cover a total of 92,000 square metres. When
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announcing the plans for Cyberport 5, Chan was quoted; “This will serve to attract more quality technology companies and startups to set up their offices in Cyberport and provide a pathway for young people to pursue a career in I&T.” The Innovation and Technology hub was first built in 2004, with the aim to become the main force in developing the digital tech industry in Hong Kong. At the time, it included four office buildings, The Arcade and Le Meridien Cyberport Hotel, a residential development was added in 2008. Plans for Cyberport 5 have not been well received by everyone. Announcement of the new development comes shortly after residents’ request for a sports pitch in the area were rejected by Cyberport management as they wished to save the area for new technology facilities. Paul Zimmerman, the local district councillor explained: “The community prefers open space over an office tower.
Whatever happens, Cyberport should use this opportunity to spend money on improving the park, pier and promenade for their employees, local residents, and visitors.” Got a local story? Have your say by emailing editorial@hongkongliving.com
Fun things to do in Cyberport 1. Watch a movie at Broadway Circuit 2. Grab a bite to eat at Delaneys 3. Take part in the E-sports Summer Fantasy on July 27 4. Keep the kids entertained at the Real Expert Play Fun Zone For more visit: arcade.cyberport.hk
SOUTHSIDE.HK | 19
cover story
From Ashtanga flow in Aberdeen to sun salutations in Stanley… Nicole Slater rounds up the best yoga studios in Southside
A
weekly, or even daily yoga session can be the perfect remedy to counteract life in hectic Hong Kong. There are fabulous studios across the island offering everything from Bikram to Vinyasa, a class that is right on your doorstep eliminates travel stress leaving you more time in Savasana (apparently the most important pose of all… we’ll take that!) Here are some of the best studios Southside has to offer.
Wong Chuk Hang Shan Studios
Kids yoga
Little Yogis Little ones can enjoy yoga too at Little Yogis. Each class is one hour long with 40 minutes dedicated to breathing techniques and yoga poses. The remaining 20 minutes is spent learning about healthy food and nutrition in a hands-on cooking class. The classes are available for children aged two to eight. Children under three years old must be accompanied by an adult. One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang. littleyogishk.com
Yoga and meditation
Specialising in yoga and meditation, Shan Studios helps it’s students focus on self-care through both yoga and meditation practices. With ten styles of yoga and five meditation practices, including Mindful Salutation and Yoga Nidra, students can discover new poses and techniques to help them relax. Classes are suitable for all skill levels. 902 Sun Hing Industrial Building, 46 Wong Chuk Hang Road. shanstudios.com
Take it outside
Flex studio Co-directed by Pilates instructor and yoga guru, Heather Thomas Shalabi and former professional ballet dancer Anna Serafinas Luk, Flex studio offers a range of yoga fitness classes. The classes include a variety of styles such as Vinyasa Flow, Detox Flow and Hatha Yoga. The spacious and modern studio overlooks Wong Chuk Hang and is just minutes from the MTR. From time to time, Flex also hold rooftop yoga sessions at Above by Komune at Ovolo Southside. The sessions are followed by a delicious healthy brunch. 308310, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road. flexhk.com
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namaste
Repulse Bay Pure Yoga
Hot a
yog Idyllically located at The Pulse, this Pure Yoga location is just steps from the sandy shores of Repulse Bay. The fitness centre offers a range of yoga styles, from the more traditional Hatha Yoga to modern styles including Hot Yoga and Aerial Yoga. Pure Yoga encourages students to take yoga beyond the studio by holding workshops with guest yoga teachers as well as retreats. Level 1 The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay. pure-yoga.com
Cyberport Pippo’s Yoga & Wellness Founded in 2015, this yoga boutique caters to everyone’s strengths and interests. They offer kids and teen yoga classes as well as more complex yoga including Hatha Flow and Vinyasa for adults. With a team of six professional instructors, Pippo’s Yoga & Wellness focuses on making sure each student leaves with a clear mind, a healthy body and a sense of well-being. Shop 402, 4/f, The Arcade, 100 Cyberport Road. pipposyoga.com
Yoga for all
SOUTHSIDE.HK | 21
cover story
Worth heading into town Yoga Room
Mums, breathe a sigh of relief. Yoga For new Room offers daily pre and postnatal Mums yoga and Pilates classes. New mums can also enjoy the Mum & Baby classes, which help strengthen and support postpartum bodies, while offering the opportunity to meet other new mums. Xiu Ping Commercial Building, 104 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan. yogaroomhk.com
Yoga BamBam Tucked away on a quiet, tree-lined pedestrian terrace, Yoga BamBam is a chic studio offering a variety of unique classes. The studio is famous for aerial classes and offers both adult and children’s classes so that everyone can experience the art of flying high. Classes are conveniently held throughout the day so students can pop in for a session during their lunch break or after work. 28 Pound Lane, Sheung Wan. yogabambam.com
Aerial yoga
Let it come to you Tina Jansen Specialising in Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin and Restorative yoga, Southside resident Tina Jansen has been practicing yoga for over 15 years. Tina is currently training for her 500-hour certification and offers home visits and private yoga sessions to residents in the Southside and Peak area. Call 9858 Private 0380 or email tinajansen@me.com
sessions
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namaste Upcoming yoga events APR 21 Rooftop yoga and brunch Fancy a different kind of free-flow? Enjoy a core flow rooftop yoga session led by Flex Studio at Above by Komune followed by a special healthy detox brunch which includes semi-buffet, main and desserts. 11am-3pm. $400. Komune, 64 Wong Chuk Hang Road. komune.com.hk
APR 27 - 28 IRIS Festival Hong Kong’s biggest Yoga and Wellness Festival, combining yoga, mediation, music, arts, and health and wellness education. This year IRIS will introduce a new family zone. Central Harbourfront Event Space. irishkg.com
Take it further Bamboo Yoga Founded by Polish native Aleksandra Milewicz, Bamboo Yoga offers beginner level, private and corporate classes, as well as a very popular beach aerial yoga workshop. The workshop starts with an aerial yoga class at Yoga Bam Bam, followed by a hike to Tai Long Wan beach, where students will practice aerial yoga on bamboo tripods over the ocean. Check out their websites for upcoming sessions and classes. 10 Shin Hing Street, Central. bamboo-yoga.com
Make a day of it
JUN 13-16 Asia Yoga Conference Bringing together yoga masters, teachers and students to inspire the growing community of yogis with workshops, exhibitions and classes. Book your tickets now. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. asiayogaconference.com
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easter camps
Easter camps The best camps for kids and teens this spring break ALL-ROUNDERS
Choice of half day or full day curriculums. hklanguages.com
Hong Kong Institute of Languages HK Institute of Languages, a registered education centre of 34 years, is offering a culturally enriched language programme this Easter in French, German and English for four to 12 year olds. Children will learn about the key aspects of each culture through languagebased fun and educational learning activities, inclusive of festivals, cuisine, famous places, painting, literature, art and family trees.
Hong Kong Parkview The perfect entertainment for your children during the Easter holidays – recreational, educational and fun! Camps are held between April 15-26 and include multi-sport, tennis, swimming, hands-on science experiments and rock climbing, for kids aged 18 months and up. Enjoy a 10% early bird discount if full payment is made by April 5. hongkongparkview.com
Hong Kong Academy
YWCA Centre of Learning and Life Enhancement
Hong Kong Academy is hosting drama, sports and STEAM camps this Easter. Continue with current interests or explore a new one. Camps are for ages two all the way up to 15 years to keep the kids busy during the break. hkacademy.edu.hk
Challenge the mind, brain and body in one of the 100 Easter camps available from the YWCA International Kids Club. Opportunities range from tennis to playing junior scientist. With hundreds of options to choose from, YWCA has one of the most comprehensive lists
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education fun of language, art and writing. Also back by popular demand, Upper Primary Author Writing Workshop - taught by award-winning author K. T. Durham - will be returning for one class only during Spring Camp, 23-26 April. Spring camps available at ESF Language & Learning Centre, Kowloon Junior School, Renaissance College, and their Tsing Yi and Wu Kai Sha Kindergartens. esf.org.hk/camps
First Code Academy around. Camps include the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy Easter Camp for three to seven year olds ($1,880 for four sessions), Coding Workshops for five to 12 year olds ($1,440 for two sessions), Easter Gymnastics & Trampoline Day Camp for three to 10 year olds ($460 per session), and the ever popular Little Scientists for three to nine year olds ($665 per session). Dates vary according to the camp. clle.ywca.org.hk
Woodland Pre-Schools Sign your kids up for an egg-citing spring break at Woodland. Packed with fun activities like egg hunts and flower pot decorating, this easter camp is a great departure from your typical academic camps. Your kids can even take home carrot muffins they bake. For kids aged three to seven, from April 15-26. woodlandschools.com
Get your geek on and find your inner computer whiz with one of First Code Academy’s Easter camps. The camps offer kids aged four and above the opportunity to turn their computer ideas into reality; from building apps, website, games and hardware projects. Camps are suitable for both beginner and intermediate leveled coders. Running from April 5-26. Easter camps will be available across their Sheung Wan, Kowloon and Causeway Bay locations. Starting at $3,000. Special bundle offers available when you sign up to more than one camp at a time. hk.firstcodeacademy.com
Malvern College Pre-School Malvern Easter Day Camp is a great opportunity for children to develop their communication and language skills, whilst making new friends. Sessions will include Thematic Reading, Phonics Fun, Arts & Crafts, My Little Theatre, Sing Along and Physical Play. From April 15-18, morning sessions of Where is the Easter Egg? will run from 9am-12 noon and Easter Fun! is from 1-4pm. $3,200 for four morning or afternoon sessions. malvernpreschool.hk
Baumhaus An indoor, age-specific Easter camp designed to encourage a productive and enjoyable learning experience for kids, from newborns to six year olds. It’s a flexible programme, starting at $300 for one day playroom access plus one class. The camps will run April 1518. Available at both Wan Chai and Harbour City locations. baumhaus.com.hk
ACADEMIC
Southside Mandarin
ActiveKids Hong Kong Welcoming children aged three to 17, ActiveKids has a variety of scientific camps to choose from and is a great choice for children who love to solve puzzles. By engaging your kids in activities such as machine building, chess showdowns and robotic coding, it stimulates their mind and improves their problem solving skills. Held April 15-26, from $650 per session. activekidshk.com
Fairchild Junior Academy
ESF Language & Learning Join ESF for an exciting four days of fun and adventure as they explore a variety of super stories. Suitable for children two to 16 years old, creative ones can experience the
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Great for children who are interested in technology such as coding, but also have a creative streak, Fairchild Junior Academy’s Creative Coding Director Camp can exemplify their talents in both areas. By getting their hands on Tublock pieces they can build their very own robot, control it through coding and shoot on animation. fairchild.academy
Southside Mandarin are hosting a fun, all activities camp from April 15-18 for kids aged 2.5 to 12. Children will be immersed in a Putonghua environment learning about Easter and Chinese culture, with STEM for the primary school ages. Language lessons will be followed by Wushu, Chinese dance, PTH Art and Calligraphy. There will of course be an Easter egg hunt and Easter egg painting. southsidemandarin.com
Bricks 4 Kidz Based in Sai Kung and Causeway Bay, Bricks 4 Kidz delivers educational classes using
education LEGO® bricks. Their Easter camp will be held April 15-26 every morning for toddlers aged 2.5 to five years old and afternoons for kids aged four to 12. Kids can explore architecture, engineering and technology concepts in themes such as famous places, city engineers and brick critters. Discounts of up to 20% available before April 9. bricks4kidz.com.hk
Ark Eden
Creative Coding Children aged five to 15 are encouraged to tinker and explore in STEAM based camps from Creative Coding. Their range of courses in coding, robotics and game design teach students to develop the 4 C’s of Creativity, Collaboration, Communication and Critical thinking - essential skills for the future. Classes are held at Hong Kong Academy, One Island South and Olympian City One. creativecoding.hk
OUTDOORS
Treasure Island Treasure Island will have children embark on an epic adventure around Pui O Beach this Easter. Children will develop outdoor leadership skills such as trip preparation, equipment and material checks and group organisation. Kayaking, gorging, raft building, hiking and an overnight expedition are just some of the exciting activities on offer. Running April 15-19 and April 22-26. treasureislandhk.com
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Awaken the adventurous and curious side of your child with Ark Eden’s Easter camp. This camp is set in the beautiful Mui Wo valley on Lantau Island, where children get to learn in the natural playground and outdoor classroom. Expect nature exploration, problem solving, bush crafts, imaginative games, overnight camping and more. Running from April 15-26, starting at $670 (multi-day package discount available). Children aged five to 11 are welcome to join the adventure. arkedenonlantau.org
A Team Edventures Unleash your wild side with A Team Edventure’s action-packed Easter camp. The outdoor education organisation teaches children sports and leadership skills, both crucial later on life. Camps last three days and two nights out at Tai Long Sai Wan and sees adventurers take on stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, surfing, canyoning plus many other team games. April 19-21. ateamedventures.com
CREATIVE ARTS Faust International Be inspired by the wonderful world of theatre and performing arts with Faust International’s Holiday programs. This year, Faust will offer a Holiday Theatre (open to ages four to 12), and Creative Writing (open to ages six to 13) programmes, inviting budding actors and writers to explore a selection of stories, such as The Tiddler and The Little Mermaid. All Easter programmes will be held at their Sheung Wan studio. Both programmes run for four days and cost $2,400 per person. April 15-18 and 23-26. A further one day workshop ($890), Play in a Day, will be held April 13. faustworld.com
Elephant Community Press Shaping budding authors and avid young readers, these Easter workshops aim to instill the foundations of good storytelling and creative writing. Running April 15-18 and 23-26. Camps on offer include the Easter Storyland for ages four to six; an Independent Writing and Self-publishing workshop
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education is for ages eight to 13 and many more. elephantcommunitypress.com
Hong Kong Ballet Put on your dancing shoes and take a high flying adventure to Neverland with Peter Pan. Hong Kong Ballet are holding a three-day theatre camp which will take children aged four to 10 on a magical journey of theatrical ballet, culminating in a charming performance for parents. April 19-21. Prices start at $1,500. hkballet.com
stimulating power packed programme filled with active games and engaging activities for children aged two to seven. Children will be grouped by age to develop their skills whilst playing and making new friends in an inclusive and nurturing environment. Spring Camps will be running at Kowloon Junior School, Renaissance College and West Island School from April 23-26. esf.org.hk/camps
tennis, athletics, bats & rackets. Camps held at Victoria Park, West Island School, Repulse Bay Beach, Tseung Kwan O and Discovery Bay. Open to ages 1.5 to nine years old. April 15-26. Price starting at $1,500. minisport.hk
SPORTS Hong Kong Basketball Academy Get your head in the game with Hong Kong Basketball Academy’s (HKBA) Easter camps for boys and girls. HKBA’s camps are renowned for their high intensity, fun-filled learning environment, with campers developing fundamentals and basketball IQ, improving strength and conditioning, and being more successful on the court. Running April 15-18. Priced at $500 per class. hkbaallday.com
ESF Sports ESF Sports Spring Camps are offering a
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Sport4kids
Minisport A great way to get the children active this spring break. Minisports coaching style at camps ensures that children are engaged in dynamic activities that develop skills and build confidence across basketball, football,
Multi-activity camps for ages two to 10 years old. Activities all lead by Sport4kids coaches who love what they do and include sports, games, crafts and more. Your kids will be beaming with excitement to come back to camp each day! Camp dates from April 1530 at various locations. From $500 for two morning sessions. For a 10% discount on Hong Kong Academy and Safari Kid camps, use code #Living10 on sport4kids.hk
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big day out
Castle Peak Rory Mackay conquers the ranges of Hong Kong’s far west
T
he hills of far western Hong Kong may not be so well known compared to other areas, but Castle Peak (Tsing Shan) and its surroundings are as dramatic as any other Hong Kong landscape and ought to receive more recognition. Conquer this rugged range of hills and one will witness some of the territory’s finest views, gazing down upon Tuen Mun and absorbing the immense sprawl of Shenzhen behind. Meanwhile a gaze around the other side reveals Lantau Island and the expansive waters of the Pearl River Delta. Not only is arriving at the mountain top exhilarating but the walking to be had either side of it is most enjoyable. Early afternoons make for an ideal time to set off, ensuring pleasant temperatures and sunset vistas from the summit. The route up is easily accessed from Siu Hong MTR Station.
Once at Siu Hong Station, one can walk across to the trailhead or what I recommend doing is hopping onto the light rail to shorten this walk. Catch either the 505 or 615 bus to Leung King Station and from here, it is a five-minute walk through the housing estate to the trailhead. The trailhead is best described as a singletrack concrete road with a grassy paddock on its right hand side at the junction with Leung King Estate. Follow this road and it will quickly climb up through banana palms and tall eucalyptus trees. After a few hairpin bends and 20-30 minutes of walking from Leung King, the road reaches a plateau spanning the hills above Tuen Mun. At this point the vegetation rapidly diminishes to grassland and a few small shrubs, allowing views of the surrounding area. At this juncture there are a few options
for route selection and the adventure really begins. One could spend an entire afternoon exploring the myriad of eroded ridgelines, gullies and canyons amongst the hills in and around where the road is. Some of the canyons that are currently forming here are stunning and truly rugged. They are created due to the lack of afforestation that has occurred elsewhere in Hong Kong in the last century, the hillsides have been gouged out revealing the red clay within. As amazing as this landscape is, for the more enthusiastic hikers it’s worth pursuing the summit of Castle Peak. As you traverse the undulating ridgeline towards the mountain in a southerly direction, the views really open up. At first it is more of an overview of your immediate surroundings, but before long you’re the surveyor of all things in western Hong Kong and on clear days, the views of Shenzhen are simply jaw dropping. The sheer size and scale of this city becomes evident from this vantage point, as you can see all the way from Lo Wu in the east to Nanshan in the west. To think that 30 years ago there was next to nothing there defies logic.
Castle Peak
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Upon reaching the steep-sided summit at 583 meters above sea level, the footpath emerges from the radio towers to reveal unrivaled panoramas of Tuen Mun. Pose for dramatic photos above large granite outcrops dating back to the Jurassic Period. Alternatively, take a perch and soak up the relaxing vibes as skies darken and the vibrant lights from the millions of inhabitants below come to life. Only a few mountains in Hong Kong offer a 360-degree panorama of such variety, from the mountains of Lantau and South China Sea around to the mass development of Tuen Mun, Yuen Long and Shenzhen. The return route down is fairly simple. Keep following the hiking trail directly downwards and you’ll be back to civilisation in around an hour. Compared to the route up,
Photo credit: Exploringlife
castle peak
Tsing Shan Monstery
the return trail is well-made and maintained but does include a lot of steps. If you have a spare moment, near the bottom of the mountain poke your head into the beautiful Tsing Shan Monastery. One of Hong Kong’s oldest temples, Tsing Shan Monastery serves up a lovely dose of zen to end the hike before
returning to the eclectic racket of Tuen Mun. The simplest way back to the MTR is to walk across a few city blocks to Tuen Mun Station. Alternatively, board the Light Rail, although it’s a much shorter ride than at the start of the day so I personally wouldn’t bother. Castle Peak is a classic route. Almost anyone can have a go, yet it’s a route that keeps even the most seasoned of hikers honest. Although the western New Territories may not be especially well known amongst hikers, the area has a few nice little surprises for those who venture out. Its enchanted forests below and spectacular vistas above will no doubt leave you anticipating a return visit for another go. Rory Mackay runs adventure company Wild Hong Kong, for more information visit wildhongkong.com
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dining
Enjoy festive feasts, scavenger egg hunts and lots of chocolate
DiVino Patio Hop over to DiVino Patio for its specialty egg dishes and a line-up of kid-friendly activities from April 19 to 22. There will be egg hunts and egg painting sessions plus pizza-making classes where chefs will teach your little ones to knead and roll their own dough. Shop 11, 1/F, BRIM28, Causeway Bay Centre, 28 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. divinogroup.com
form of cute white bunnies. Deep fried turnip dumplings that pass off as baby carrots, and a playful sesame tofu dish that takes after the features of an Easter bunny duo. Hop over to Yum Cha to chow down on a flurry of dim sum delights this month. 2/F, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Road Central, Central. yumchahk.com
FRITES The popular beer house is hosting Easter parties across all four of its venues on April 21. Kick start the festive extravaganza with a scavenger egg hunt, then nab front row seats to enjoy a magic show with your kids. Be sure to come dressed in your bunny suit to enter into the costume contest. Feeling hungry after all the fun? FRITES will be serving a special kid’s menu that is loaded with old favourites with the likes of mini burgers, schnitzels and fish and chips. 1/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central. frites.hk
Yum Cha Sweet glutinous rice cakes that take the
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Statement Ring in the four-day break with a traditional British roast at Statement. The Tai Kwun restaurant is serving a special edition of its Britannia Brunch over the Easter weekend. Treat yourself to a generous serving of organic roast beef carved tableside, accompanied by a side of Yorkshire pudding and laden with plenty of trimmings including roast potatoes,
easterxxx brunch mashed potatoes and buttered heritage carrots. Police Headquarters, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central. statement.com.hk
Fancy more chocolate? Make your way to cocoa paradise with these afternoon tea feasts
Bathers Egg hunt on the beach? Count us in please! Start your day with a laidback all-you-caneat lunch at the beach restaurant. After a few rounds to the buffet table, grab a bucket and get ready to dig up armfuls of eggs buried in the sand. Along with the egg hunt, there will also be fun beach activities and special gifts for the little ones. Egg hunting spots are limited, so make sure to RSVP in advance. 32 Lower Cheung Sha Village, South Lantau. bathers.com.hk
a dining voucher of $1,000. G5-8, 12-17, Empire Centre, 68 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East. divinogroup.com
The Verandah With stunning views of Repulse Bay and delicious food, brunch at The Verandah is the best way to spend your Sunday. A special Easter themed brunch will be held on April 21 (Easter Sunday), featuring a semibuffet selection and a chance to meet the Easter bunny! 109 Repulse Bay Road, The Repulse Bay. therepulsebay.com
InterContinental Hong Kong InterContinental is partnering with French dancewear brand Repetto for a limited edition ballet-inspired tea set. Give the chocolate truffle a twirl and scoff down the citrus panna cotta with finesse. Available until April 30. 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. hongkong-ic.intercontinental.com
COBO House Local cha chaan teng eats gets a fancy redo at COBO House. The art-centric restaurant is serving chocolate and pastry creations that mimic the look of savoury street foods you can get at local teahouses. G/F & 1/F, 8-12 South Lane, Sai Wan. cobohouse.com
The Murray The Murray’s Popinjays and The Tai Pan are dishing out special brunches for the Easter holiday. Head up to the rooftop restaurant to enjoy a lavish five-course meal from above, or save yourself a seat at the romantic garden restaurant. Your little ones won’t be disappointed by the kids’ menu and smorgasbord of sweet treats, as well as the jam-packed line-up of activities including an egg hunt, magic performances, balloon twisting and face painting. 22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central. niccolohotels.com
Spasso Newly appointed resident chef Marco Furlan will prepare a sumptuous Italian spread on Sunday, April 21. Expect a solid pastry selection ranging from hot cross buns to traditional dove cakes and pastiera napoletana. Gather around the chocolate fountain with a stick in hand and join the egg decorating competition for a chance to win
Cordis Hong Kong
EAST Hong Kong Feast at EAST Hong Kong will host a festive semi-buffet over the four-day break featuring oven-roasted lamb rack, free-range roast chicken, full English breakfast and steak and fries. The dessert counter will cover classic Easter delights like hot cross buns as well as fusion patisserie creations such as honey yuzu mousse cake and tofu chocolate mousse. On April 21, get crafty with decorating Easter eggs and make a date with floppy-eared friends at the live bunny show. 29 Taikoo Shing Road, Tai Koo Shing. east-hongkong.com
In collaboration with professional Korean makeup brand VDL, Cordis is serving a Living Coral-themed afternoon tea set as a nod to the Pantone Colour of the Year. Chocolate lovers won’t want to miss the edible cocoa lipsticks and cherry chocolate tart. Available until May 31. 555 Shanghai Street, Mongkok. cordishotels.com/ hongkong
finish. The brunch is served from 12-2:30pm. Basement, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central. chaiwala.hk
Chaiwala Putting an authentically Indian spin on a traditional Scotch egg, modern Indian restaurant Chaiwala has created the Nargisi Kofta, made of boiled eggs encased in tender beef mince, atop a rich gravy of onion, nuts and tomato. The dish will be served as part of the restaurants new Holi Brunch which also includes curries, papadi and cotton candy to
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dining
NIBBLES
News from the dining scene.
Above by Komune
Bunny shaped pizzas at Amalfitana Popular for their delicious Artisan pizzas, Amalfitana at The Pulse is celebrating Easter with bunny-shaped pizzas on the kid’s menu this season. Topped with cherry tomatoes, black olives and buffalo mozzarella, kids will love this adorable bunny-shaped pizza - and it makes a change from gorging on chocolate! Shop 105, G/F, The Pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay. amalfitana.hk
Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen & Bar is now open at The Peak The MasterChef host has reopened his casual British diner at a Hong Kong landmark. The venue closed down in LKF Hotel last year due to redevelopment plans. The new outpost at The Peak serves classic British favourites like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and butcher steak cuts. BSK marks Ramsay’s second restaurant opening in Hong Kong within the last four months, following the launch of maze Grill, a contemporary steakhouse at Harbour City. Shop G02, G/F, The Peak Galleria, 118 Peak Road, The Peak. diningconcepts.com
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Start weekends on a high! Head up to Above by Komune on Friday evenings between 7-9pm to enjoy a live Latino band while you sip on a fabulous selection of cocktails. If you can’t wait until Friday, the restaurant on the 4th floor is also offering an unbeatable happy hour deal during the week. Enjoy all you can eat BBQ ribs and fries, accompanied by free-flow sangria and beer for $118 from Monday to Thursday from 5-7pm. Above at Komune, Ovolo Southside, 64 Wong Chuk Hang Rd, Aberdeen. komune.com.hk
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sport
Seven Great Ways To Enjoy The Sevens Get set for a fabulous three-day weekend of rugby action on and off the pitch from April 5-7. Holly Annie Black reports.
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Get a costume
It’s Halloween in April! Most people wear more ‘ordinary’ clothing on the Friday and Sunday, while Saturday is best-known for going all out in wacky fancy dress. Costumes and additional bits and bobs can be found at Pottinger Street in Central or try Wan Chai Market.
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Shake your booty to the sounds of Gwen Stefani
Everyone’s favourite Hollaback Girl, Gwen Stefani will kick off the weekend’s festivities at the Cathay Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens Festival hosted at Central Harbourfront Event Space on April 5. This will be the first time in a decade that the artist has performed in the city. Tickets for the concert cost $780. The festival will continue across the weekend with free general admission on Saturday and Sunday. hksevens.com
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Pack light
Try to bring as little as possible, but DO NOT forget, I repeat DO NOT FORGET YOUR HKID CARD - you’ll need this to enter the South stadium and purchase drinks (18’s and above). Sun-cream and sunglasses - the sevens usually lands on the first hot weekend of the year. Hand sanitiser - you don’t know who else has touched those handrails. Phone and portable chargers - you will most definitely lose your friends at some point. At least $500 cash - ATMs are scarce inside the stadium. Your ticket - equally as important as your HKID!
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Arrive early Be there in the early hours of the morning to secure a seat in the stadium. Once it fills up, the
Rugby tip Unlike a traditional rugby match, a Sevens match has seven players per side and lasts only seven minutes per halfeasy enough to remember!
stadium operates a one-in-one-out system. Don’t be left queuing when you could be enjoying the on-pitch action inside. Arrive using public transport, at Causeway Bay station take Exit F. From there it’s a 15-minute walk to the stadium. A number of bus routes also pass through Causeway Bay, check nwstbus.com.hk for route information.
hk7s East and West: Otherwise known as the family or under 18’s stand, this familyorientated area is where you’ll find the civilised corporate boxes which overlook the entire stadium. Other seats here offer full views of the pitch and people often arrive around 5.30am to secure these seats. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in these seating areas.
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5
Choose your stand wisely
South: The typical South standgoers will most likely be aged between 18-35, costume-clad, beer in hand and in the thick of the infamous party scene. If you’re planning on enjoying the South stand atmosphere, fancy dress is recommended as you’re likely to have beer thrown on you at some point. If you choose to enter this stand on the Saturday without a costume, you’ll stand out like a sore thumb - you have been warned! The entrance lines are long with a one-in-one-out system so try to arrive as early as 7am to avoid your party dreams being dashed. North: Although this stand is smaller, often a large portion is taken up by die-hard Fiji supporters. Serious players will also watch from here. It has a lively-yet-tame atmosphere.
After Parties Don’t let your buzz go to waste once the sun sets on a glorious day of rugby. Prolong the celebrations at these after-party hotspots.
HSBC Sevens Village and After Party There is no need to go anywhere once the final whistle is blown. In the evening, the Sevens Village comes alive with revellers looking for a place to celebrate. Conveniently located just opposite the stadium, head straight over and enjoy a pitcher of beer, or a Sea Breeze if that takes your fancy, then rock the night away to the tune of live bands and DJs. LKF Official Hong Kong Sevens Rugby After Party As if anyone needs an excuse to hit the streets of Lan Kwai Fong. For the week running up to and during the Sevens weekend, Lan Kwai Fong will be lined with game booths, beer stands, and there is even a parade!
Rugby tip Players must score a try by touching the ball to the ground in the opponent’s in-goal
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The morning after
If you’ve had a little too much fun the day before and have a slightly sore head, don’t miss a day! Instead fuel up at one of these fantastic brunch spots… your hangover can wait until Monday (Note: book Monday off work well in advance. Calling in sick on the morning will do you no good - there is no escaping the plague of the Sevens, everyone knows where you’ve been!) The Flying Pan If you’re in desperate need of some carbs and free-flow coffee, The Flying Pan is the place to go. Located in Wan Chai this 24-hour restaurant serves up a range of breakfast dishes from fluffy pancakes to a classic British fry up, perfect for clearing a foggy head. Locations in Central and Wan Chai. the-flying-pan.com Quayside Harbour Front Restaurant & Bar For something a little fancier, Quayside has you covered with their intriguingly-named Hangover Plate, to help you through your Sunday morning. Diners can also choose from a range of modern breakfast and lunch options which come with a free-flow buffet of salads, cheeses and desserts. If you’re feeling up for it, enjoy a selection of wines, beers and bubbly! Wan Chai. quaysidehongkong.com For more information visit hksevens.com
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sport Meet Max Denmark Holly Annie Black meets the Hong Kong player fronting the Rugby Sevens campaign this year When did you first start playing rugby? My Sunday’s have always been busy! I started playing football when I was two and then rugby from sevens years old after my parents got me into it. What is your training routine like running up to an event like the Sevens? Training tends to be tough, we try and train for over a week at a high intensity. The rugby club tournaments and training start finishing at this time of year, so it gives me more time to focus. Have you always wanted to be a professional rugby player?
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Professional rugby wasn’t my original plan, I was going to go straight to university after graduating from Millfield School. Once I was offered a contract with the Rugby Union, I thought alright I’ll stay here. It’s a pretty cool career. How did you feel when you first started playing professionally? I felt a little bit out of my depth. My first tournament was a different level of intensity from what I was used to with the Under 20’s team. But playing this past year has really helped me adjust. Do you get nervous before a big game? If so how do you handle the nerves? I don’t tend to get nervous, but to help me get into the zone before a match I listen to music. At the moment I’m listening to ASAP Ferg and a bit of relaxing stuff like Jess Glynne. Do you have any fond memories of the HK Rugby Sevens? I used to go to the HK Sevens every year until I started playing in it last year! Watching us get to the final in the qualifier, that was
big. Watching us lose wasn’t so good. What is some advice you have for aspiring rugby players? When I was younger I lost the ability to play. I grew really quickly and I forgot how to use my hands or I didn’t know where my legs were so I got slow and forgot how to catch a ball. But I just kept trying and by the end of the season I could play again. So keep going and don’t give up!
Try
Do you do lots of travelling for rugby? Last year I travelled to a lot of places, my favourite place was Fiji. It was beautiful and the people there were amazing. What’s the funniest comment shouted at you by someone in the crowd? During a 15’s match, I dropped the ball a few times, so the next time it came at me someone screamed ‘don’t drop it this time’ and I dropped it. That one stuck with me for a while. Who’s your vainest team mate I would have to say Max Woodward from Valley!
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health wellness healthand & wellness
Hong Kong’s Hair Smoothing Salons Love Hair:
Becky Love on beauty hacks to keep you looking fresh all summer
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ooking your best during the humid months in Hong Kong can be tricky. We may leave the house looking fresh and put together, but by the time we’ve reached our destination, we often look like a frizzy oil slick. That’s why we’ve gathered a couple of humidity hacks - so that you can save time in the morning and arrive at brunch looking just as fabulous as when you left the house.
Hair’s looking at you A smoothing treatment for your hair can really help to keep the frizz at bay. Usual
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straightening just won’t do the trick in Hong Kong, at least not for long, which means a lot of wasted time in the morning with the flat iron.
Keratin Treatment Keratin is a treatment that seals the hair cuticle to knock out frizz and keep your locks smooth and shiny. This treatment is highly recommended for those with course, frizzy, unmanageable hair as it eliminates fuzz and softens the hair to assist in easier styling. It is not recommended for those with straight, fine hair as when heat is applied during the
For a Bhave Smoothe Keratin Therapy Unlike many keratin treatments, this one will not restructure the hair, keeping hold of your natural curl or wave. Prices between $2,400 – $2,600. lovehairhk.com Indulgence: For a Keratin or Brazilian treatment. Prices range from $2,800. indulgence.hk The Strand HK: Offers several keratin and straightening treatments, including Wellastrate, Nado Nado Straightening, Keratin Complex and Keratin Complex Express. Pricing from $1,800 for the Keratin Express. thestrandhk.com
curly hair party-ready process, the hair can break and become damaged. It is also known to flatten the hair more than other treatments, which is why it is perfect for those with voluminous, curly locks who want to make their hair more manageable. This treatment can last anywhere from three to five months, and may take up to three hours to achieve.
Photo credit: Xtreme Lashes
Hong Kong’s Lash Boutiques
Brazilian Blowout A Brazilian blowout is another smoothing treatment, but will most likely remove frizz whilst still holding your natural curl and wave - unlike Keratin which can calm your natural curl more. A Brazilian blowout will typically last around three months - so a little bit less than a Keratin treatment and may take around one to two hours to complete. Both treatments are great humidity fighters and although not permanent, will give you a break from the ongoing battle with the flat iron and round brush.
Lash Out! False eyelashes and lash lifts can make a world of difference if you feel it’s too humid to do a full face of makeup. They can make you look fresh, wide awake, and even as if you’ve made an effort in the morning.
Eyelash Extensions There are different types of lash extensions you can choose from, such as synthetic, silk and mink. Different sizes are also available and a good lash stylist will choose the right length and type to suit your eye shape. Eyelash extensions can save time in the morning as there is really no need for eye makeup, they typically last six to eight weeks.
Keratin Lash Lift Described as a perm for your lashes, the Keratin Lash Lift can look just as good as extensions and is usually much cheaper. The
Novalash: This signature studio offers high quality lash extensions and each stylist is Novalash trained and certified. Full sets from $1,860 (classic set). novalash.hk Xtreme Lashes: Offering classic, volume and bridal lashes to accentuate your eyes and save you time getting ready. Classic lash set from $1,488. xtremelashes.com.hk Princessbrows: Offering Keratin lash lifts that take about 45 minutes, a safe alternative to ammonia-based alternatives. G.E.L Lashes from $950 per set. gellashes.com
process takes about an hour and for best results you should not wet your lashes for 48 hours. The curled lash effect can potentially last eight to 12 weeks.
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travel
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game philippines reserve
Holly Annie Black explains why the best route to explore these pristine islands takes the form of an anti-clockwise triangle
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travel
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game philippines reserve
El Nido
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zim city
Rediscovering our trails Paul Zimmerman steps off the beaten path
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avigating Hong Kong over land, residents formed walking trails over centuries. The routes were determined by our mountainous topography and rugged shores with its peaks, gaps, valleys and beaches. Settlements built at cross points, along water courses and near fertile flatlands made for more recent destinations. Other trails were formed by workers who placed pylons for overhead cables and the cable car up Lantau. While the first roads followed the trails, later roads ignored them. Slope and drainage works cut off other old trails including from The Bethanie and Pokfulam Reservoir Road down to Victoria Road. Paths from the Hong Kong Trail down behind Queen Mary hospital to Pok Fu Lam Road disappeared with slope works completed last year. Our problem is that most trails have never been designated and as a result there is no reinstatement obligation. Despite the difficulty, hikers do rediscover and explore old trails and tie ribbons around trees to help others find them. Smartphone apps such as ‘TrailWatch’ also help you find these trails. This, in part because our Survey and Mapping Office carefully marks all ground features on their maps, and because hiking
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apps allow users to record their routes for sharing with others. Some ‘disappearing’ trails are not only stunning, with gorgeous vistas and spectacular rock streams, they are obvious routes people have good reason to use again. I walked down the valley from Wong Nai Chung Gap to Deep Water Bay beach. The upper entrance to the path is no longer obvious because of road works. Coming up from the beach is easier, just walk along the unpaved road left of the golf club. Together with the Mills and Chung Path along the coast, Shouson Hill residents have a circular route around their neighbourhood. Inside country parks trails are maintained by the AFCD, except where they want to keep hikers away from ecologically sensitive areas. Outside the parks we depend on routes maintained by the Water Services Department as part of our water catchment and reservoir system. Home Affairs Department maintains some popular trails. I am on a mission to get more trails reopened. Works is now on the way for the trail from Sassoon Road roundabout to Cyberport and Kong Sin Wan Road. Hikers, walkers, runners, bird watchers, do help identify trails we like to see designated,
reconnected, sign posted, and improved (with a light touch). How about Cape d’Aguilar down to Shek O beach? Mt. Davis to Kennedy Town? Send me your suggestions: info@ paulzimmerman.hk
Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, a Southern District Councillor and the coconvenor of Save Our Country Parks alliance.
woof
Ask a vet... Dr. Pauline Pets Central veterinarian Dr. Pauline Taylor answers your questions. “Is it safe for my cat to drink cow’s milk?” Nutritionally cats don’t get anything special from cow’s milk. Milk is really just a high calorie treat for them. In addition, cow’s milk is loaded with more lactose (sugar) and casein (protein) than most cats can handle. After weaning cats bodies do not have the same ability to break up the sugars and proteins in milk as they do not have an enzyme called lactase. As a result, the ingested milk sugars can cause diarrhoea, bloating and gas. For these reasons, I really don’t recommend you feed your cat cow’s milk. “How many times a day should I feed my dog?” In the wild, dog packs usually eat two to three times a week, when they catch prey. They overeat, then relax and sleep. With our pets we think they like to eat when we do. We train them to expect food from us and make it very easy for them to get food, no hunting required. Obesity is one of the most common medical problems in domesticated dogs as we tend to overfeed them. I recommend feeding one main meal a day, and using food dispensing toys for any other food. Each dog is different and normally when they are genuinely hungry they will eat, unless of course you have a pet labrador…. they are always ready to eat! “My cat is 10 and suddenly behaving badly, climbing on the kitchen counter and stealing food. Is there a reason she has suddenly become like this?” I’d be concerned that at 10 years old your cat has a disease or deficiency in her body and the amount of food you are feeding her isn’t enough to satisfy her needs. As we get older we develop inefficiencies in many parts of our bodies, the digestive system being one area. Assuming you haven’t changed her food type and she has safe and easy access to her food, I’d monitor her weight and note any loss, make sure you deworm her. You could also increase her food quantity by 10-20% per day and monitor her behavioral response. If stealing food continues she needs a health check.
Got a question for Dr. Pauline? Email editorial@hongkongliving.com 50 | SOUTHSIDE.HK
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Walkies Holly Annie Black catches up with four-legged Southside resident, Cody
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xcitable and energetic, Cody loves his daily strolls up and down the promenade starting from Deep Water Bay and heading towards Repulse Bay. He is easily recognisable by his golden fur which shimmers and glows on a sunny day. On days when Cody is feeling particularly adventurous he likes to wander up into the Tai Tam Country Park and he drags his owners, Michelle and Amanda along with him as he runs up the trail, feeling the wind beneath his fur. The park has four reservoirs, Tai Tam Upper Reservoir, Tai Tam Reservoir, Tai Tam Central Reservoir and Tai Tam Estate Reservoir, and offers both natural scenery and historical relics in the area. These always provide great sniffing opportunities, Cody is particularly fond of the hut on Jardine’s Lookout.
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southside secrets
Hu Shih’s Tic Tac Toe The literary heritage of the Tic Tac Toe monument at St. Stephen’s College
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t St. Stephen’s College, Stanley, a sculpture of the game Tic Tac Toe commemorates the life of scholar and diplomat, Hu Shih (1891 - 1962).
Hu Shih is best known for his contribution to Chinese liberalism and in establishing the Chinese vernacular as the official written language. Born and educated in China, Hu left in 1910 to study agriculture at Cornell University under the Boxer Indemnity Scholarship Program, which allowed Chinese students to study in the US, though he later changed his major to philosophy and literature. After graduating, he went on to study philosophy at Columbia University, where he was greatly influenced by one of his professors, John Dewey, and the idea of pragmatic evolutionary change. Hu received his doctorate in 1917 and returned to China that same year to lecture at Peking University - a post he held intermittently until the War of Resistance broke out in 1937 - fast becoming one of the leading intellectuals of the May Fourth Movement and, later, the New Culture Movement. He gained the support of Chen Duxiu, editor of New Youth, a Chinese journal in which Hu published his Humble suggestions for literary reforms (1917), a contribution to the literary revolution in China which rejected the convention of writing in
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the classical language in favour of the living vernacular, to make it easier for the ordinary person to read and write. Also in 1917, Hu married the girl who had been chosen for him many years earlier by his mother. He published his magnum opus, The History of Chinese Philosophy, Vol. 1 in 1919, written in vernacular style. Between 1938 and 1942 Hu held the position of the Republic of China’s ambassador to the United States, during which time he was nominated for a Nobel Prize in literature (1939). He lectured at Harvard University from 1944-5 and then returned to China to serve as president of Peking University between 1946 and 1948. When China’s communist party, led by Mao Zedong, assumed power, Hu left China and eventually moved to Taipei, where he was appointed president of the Academia Sinica (the national academy of Taiwan) and lived
until his death. At some point in his life, Hu was invited by the University of Hong Kong to head the Department of Chinese, but he declined and recommended Xu Dishan instead. In 1935, on a trip to Hong Kong, Hu took a tour of the southside and was captivated by the stunning scenery, praising that “Hong Kong should have its own poets and artists to eulogize its fine natural setting”. He particularly enjoyed the sunset over the sea at Stanley, while taking afternoon tea at St. Stephen’s College. Look carefully at the sculpture and you will see that the tic tac toe game is printed with the extracts of Hu’s writing and ideas in the form of a 3D matrix.
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column
Play, pay or get out of the way Upbeat opinions and random outbursts. By Mrs. Backfire
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hen news broke in the US last month about a calculated cashfor-college-admissions bribery scheme, a collective shrug went around Hong Kong. The story was both shocking (Faked sailing credentials? How brazen!) and not so shocking (Rich people buying their way in. Yawn). The scheme also carried the added and wholly familiar element of children beholden, or at least agreeable, to their parents’ highachievement dreams. Social media did its job by erupting in furious indignation. Hard-working folks were quick to post their academic credentials—so many amazing SAT scores—and then (rightly) point out how the world turns differently for the wealthy. Law enforcement officers filed dozens of charges—an entire cocktail party’s worth of short-cut strivers are in serious trouble—and then announced justice would be swift and impartial. “There can be no separate college admissions system for the wealthy,” said Andrew Lelling, the United States attorney for the District of Massachusetts, who seems to have forgotten about the American university legacy system that has existed since the Ivy League started growing plants on brick buildings. However, the wealthy that Lelling referred to are not the insane-rich-just-buy-a-new-buildingon-campus squillionaires. As New York Times opinion columnist Farhad Manjoo pointed out, the bribery scandal has revealed that there are now three doors to college in the U.S: the front (for the earnest, meaning both earned and honest), the back (for the kids of the 1% donor class) and the new ‘side’ door—a cheaper way in that exploits human nature and faults in the system and that ultimately does an end-run around meritocracy. We know how difficult college admissions can be for even the most accomplished and well-supported students operating on a socalled level playing field. All that test-taking and essay writing, all those conditional offers and early admission decisions. All that stress about a process that, as it turns out, can be completely arbitrary and easily manipulated. Point in fact: recently I learned that Hong Kong students wishing to attend an elite American university have it doubly hard. Why? Because 1. Hong Kong is a small place full of high achievers; 2. Colleges (say they) want a wide cross-section of students; and 3. That means admissions offices will automatically cap the number of places
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allotted to HK applicants. In a sense, they’re saying: it doesn’t matter how many worthy candidates we have from Hong Kong, we’re setting aside only one to two spots per year for that cohort. Tough luck, ace.
Faked sailing credentials? How brazen!
Now, I make no judgement on American university admissions processes other than to say: what a racket. But in the wake of this admissions scandal, it seems far more important to focus on how we’re preparing our kids for the world we’ve created. From growing economic inequality and gender disparity to the constant stories of folks ‘falling upwards’ across all levels of industry and government, what are we telling our children? What’s the message? That hard work and honesty—for some, not all—will be rewarded? It’s telling that on the day of this writing, two things have occurred. First, the daughters of one parent charged with bribery have dropped out of USC for fear of bullying over the scandal. Whatever you may think of these girls, who it seems didn’t really want to go to USC in the first place, their lives have changed drastically—not for the better—and all because they wanted to please their parents. There’s also the fact that their mom is definitely not getting her money back and may even be facing jail time. Second, under the #FridaysForFuture banner, students across the planet are boycotting classes to protest global (i.e. adult) inaction on climate change. My youngest will be home from school soon, and I can honestly say I don’t know if she attended classes today. She broached the subject of the protest earlier in the week, but was undecided about what to do: skip or not. Her school had already sent out a letter to parents, which was a gentle warning about unexcused absences and such. My daughter and I discussed the pros and cons, and I told her how I felt, but ultimately, I said, it’s your decision. There’s a school of thought that says, nine times out of ten, parents should just get
out of the way and let their kids think, act and (potentially) fail for themselves. For most parents today, it’s a case of easier said than done, and I wonder why that’s so. In a generation or two, we’ve gone from the hands-off, benign neglect of the ‘70s and ‘80s to the whirl of helicoptering, a little help here and there, and ultimately millions of dollars changing hands for a guaranteed spot at a top university. It would take another whole column to discuss solutions, but for now I’ll say that this parental arms race is not going to lead to peace—more like a mutuallyassured destruction. In many ways (and without being facetious), I think we should all heed the advice spotted at the student-led HK climate change protests. A young man held up a poster and it said: I want you to panic.
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 ;)
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