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May 2019

A day out in Lamma with kids

Life’s a breeze A stress-free family getaway on the South China Sea

LET HER EAT CAKE Afternoon teas Mum will love

How to stay sane

Hong Kong’s most competent mothers share their secrets

AIYNS8IDE M EE

S ON’T MISLSTS D U FOOURR HROENGSKONG UMMER LIVING S LUNCH CHARITY

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CONTENTs

ISSUE 060

2 Contributors

54

Life & style

Meet this month’s team

5

What’s on

Makeup artist Maddie Ng on how to summer proof your routine

Dates for your diary this May

57 Dining

11 Giveaway

Mother’s Day afternoon teas. Plus dining news

Win a 2-night stay in the Vietnamese mountains

64

Book review

Big Cities Little Foodies aims to

introduce little ones to the local food scene

12 Snapped!

Easter fair photos, plus our colouring competition winner revealed!

66

14 News

Your monthly local news round-up

17

Me & my big idea

Marie Swarbreck of FLEXImums on getting back to work

18

In the know

Everything you need to know about the Peak tram closure

20

Hong Kong baby

The ancient practice of belly binding, where to get help postpartum. Plus baby news

24

Cover Story

Hong Kong’s most competent mums share their secrets

32

Must have this month

18 ways to say “I love you Mum”

71

7

30

72 Travel

A weekend cruise on the South China Sea. Plus travel news

80

Pork Bun in the Oven

Our expectant Mum shares the

secret diary of husband’s phantom pregnancy

44 18

35 Hong Kong Living Awards 2019

Big day out

Exploring Lamma Island with kids in tow

23

The best of Hong Kong - we reveal the winners!

45 Schools

A peek at Malvern Pre-school Island West. Plus school news

54

Scan and visit our website expat-parent.com

66

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contributors

who’s in charge?

Editorial editorial@hongkongliving.com Managing Editor Gemma Shaw

Contributing Editor Nicole Slater

Editorial Assistant Nicole Cooley

Editorial Assistant Becky Love

Digital Editor Apple Lee

Media Assistant Jeramy Lee

Design sonia@hongkongliving.com

Becky Love

Amelia Sewell

...Our Editorial Assistant reveals her husband’s phantom pregnancy in her column Pork Bun in the Oven.

...Our Education Editor takes a look at the second pre-school from Malvern College, the new Malvern College Pre-School Island West.

What do you do to treat your mum?

When I am back in Perth, I like to walk down to the local cafe and treat my mum to breakfast.

But I have to be sneaky and pay before she notices - otherwise she never lets me!

What do you do to treat your mum?

For British Mother’s Day this year I sent her some brownies from Gower Cottage Brownies - the most delicious thing to receive in the post if you’re not there to make them yourself.

Design Coordinator Sonia Khatwani

Sales & Marketing talk@hongkongliving.com Director of Partnerships Hilda Chan

Senior Sales and Marketing Executive Isamonia Chui

Sales and Marketing Executive Corrie Tang

Sales and Marketing Executive Mathew Cheung

Events ran@hongkongliving.com Event Executive Ran Chan

Operations charles@hongkongliving.com Assistant Operations Manager Charles Lau

Publisher Tom Hilditch tom@hongkongliving.com

Nicole Cooley

Gemma Shaw

...Our Contributing Editor learns about the potential of flexible work for Mums in Hong Kong.

...Our Managing Editor took a cruise for the first time on the South China Sea.

What do you do to treat your mum?

My sisters and I always give presents together for British Mother’s Day - this year it was lots of plants for the garden. We’ll also go for lunch together when I’m next back!

What do you do to treat your mum?

I sent flowers and a card for this year’s British Mother’s Day, a couple of hours later I followed up with a screaming phone call after I accidentally cut my finger. I may be 35 but she won’t escape that easily, she’ll always be my mum!

about the cover A big thank you to our cover star this month, Sonia Nazzar with her daughter Chrissy. As well as being a mum to her daughter and four sons, Sonia is Founder of dance studio, Academy of Dance. Turn to page 24 to get some tips from Sonia and other Mums on how to hold it together in Hong Kong.

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Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong

HONG KONG hongkongliving.com Expat Parent 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.

Expat Parent 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.

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what’s on

MAY 8

Diary dates

Hong Kong Living Awards 2019 Charity Lunch

Join Hong Kong Living at our annual summer charity lunch to celebrate the best of our city.

Enjoy a glitzy three course lunch with bubbles on arrival. There will be a raffle with prizes in support of our charity partner HandsOn Hong Kong. 12 noon-3pm. $550. FINDS, The Luxe Manor, Tsim Sha Tsui. hongkongliving.com expat-parent.com 5

what’s on general public. 10am-5pm. Free entry. Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Hiram’s Highway, Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung. hhyc.org.hk

MAY 1 - JUN 30

Photo credit Timothy Wong

Le French May Arts Festival

MAY 1

MAY 4

Let’s kick off the month with a public holiday!

Using cardboard, bottles, cereal boxes and a whole range of household items, children will discover fun and inventive ways to make toys, games, and decorative items.10am-12:30pm.

Open to children aged 2-5 years. Free.

9-12, Coronation Circle, 1 Yau Cheung Road, Southwest Kowloon. www.malvernpreschool.hk

Labour Day

MAY 4

Stanley Dragon Boat Warm-Up Races Ahead of the festival in June, take a peek of what’s to come at The Warm Up races.

Paddlers are limited to 18 and the course is shorter, expect an action packed day of racing. 8am-5pm. Free. Stanley Main Beach, Stanley. dragonboat.org.hk

Malvern Preschool Experience Day

MAY 4

One of the largest cultural events in Asia with more than 150 programmes across two months. Enjoy heritage and contemporary arts, painting and design and music including classical, hip-hop and dance. Ticket prices and venues vary. frenchmay.com

MAY 5 & 19

Sunday Afternoon Music Show The Garage Bar at Cordis have collaborated with The Other Busker to bring live music performances at this outdoor bar along with food truck favourites. 3-6pm. $138 for a food truck favourite, craft beer/cold-pressed juice, and a Magnum ice cream bar. 555 Shanghai Street, Mongkok, Kowloon. cordishotels.com

MAY 9-13

Cheung Chau Bun Festival A colourful and unique festival which began as a way for fishing communities to pray for safety against pirates. The festival includes a parade and a climbing competition up bun towers made of bamboo and handmade buns. Special ferry timetables will be in place. Cheng Chau. cheung-chau.com

Chinese Academy Education and Admissions Seminar

MAY 10-JUN 2

Join the Chinese Academy education seminar “Effective Bilingual Immersion Strategies” to learn about the admissions process for 2019/20. 2.30-4.30pm. Free. 77 Caroline Hill Road, Causeway Bay. caps.edu.hk

The National Theatre of Great Britain’s Tony Award-winning production, based on the Michael Morpurgo novel premieres in Hong Kong. Times vary. Additional dates have recently been added. Tickets from $395.

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

MAY 4

War Horse

The Crayon Run

MAY 4

A charity run for parents, kids and helpers to raise money for children in need. 8-11.30am. $250 per family, including t-shirts for one adult and one child. Tai Pak Beach, Discovery Bay. thecrayonrun.com

Free sailing trials and demonstrations, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding, food stalls, children’s activities and more. Open to the

Hebe Haven Yacht Club Sailing Centre Open Day 2019

Photo by Baljit Gidwani evoqueportraits.com

MAY 11

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Special Mother’s Day Workshop: DIY Dreamcatcher Workshop + High Tea Mothers and daughters (or sons!) can share a fun DIY workshop accompanied by delicious pastries. Choose from different colours and textures at the “yarn bar” and The Knitting Room instructor Céline will guide you on how to create your own modern dreamcatcher.

What’s more, there is a wine bar! 3-4.30pm. $550 for two. To register email chateau@ zoobeetle.com. Château Zoobeetle, 38 Sai Street, Sheung Wan. zoobeetle.com

what’s on

MAY 11-12

Spring Regatta 2019 The annual closing regatta of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club’s racing season, featuring

MAY 11

Summer Sparkles Indulge in a day of shopping at Hong Kong‘s biggest lifestyle and fashion fair Summer Sparkles.The best of local and global designers bring designer wear couture, jewellry, wellness products, food and beverage and

three races over two days in the Eastern Harbour. Entrance is open to entrance of all Hong Kong sailing clubs. Hong Kong sailing Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, Kellett Island, Causeway Bay. rhkyc.org.hk Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club recommend watching the race from the below waterside locations: • The Fireboat Alexander Grantham

Photo credit: RHKYC/Guy Nowell, Spring Regatta 2018

more in a unique and affordable shopping experience. 11am-7pm. Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel, 64 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East. kowloonbazaar.com

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what’s on • •

MAY 19

Exhibition Gallery The Quarry Bay Promenade Pet Garden Waterfront at Kowloon Side

District Race Hong Kong With no set route or distance, navigate through the city with the District Race app in the world’s greatest urban exploration race. Run in teams or individually. Gates open at 5am. Last call tickets from $350. Central Harbourfront Event Space. exploredistrict.com

MAY 12

Mother’s Day Don’t forget to buy a gift - see page 32 for ideas.

MAY 12

Asian Professional Boxing Championship Watch elite boxers including Raymond Poo, Hong Kong’s first ever Youth World Champion.

6pm. Tickets from $380. Hall 5G, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. hkticketing.com

MAY 12

Buddha’s Birthday It’s on a Sunday this year. Oh wait…

MAY 13

Day following Buddha’s Birthday …Monday is a public holiday!

MAY 13

Extended opening hours at Treasure Island Restaurant & Bar To celebrate the Buddha’s birthday, Treasure Island Restaurant & Bar will be extending their opening hours from Thursday through Monday. The bar will be open from 3pm-9pm on Thursday and 10am-10pm from Friday to Monday. Pui O Beach, Lantau Island. treasureislandhk.com

MAY 16-19

Affordable Art Fair Hong Kong Celebrating 20 years of making art affordable and accessible to many around the world.

This fair attracts art lovers, enthusiasts and collectors. Opening times vary. Tickets from $165. Hall 3DE (Expo Drive Entrance), Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. affordableartfair.com

MAY 17 & 18

Jason Mraz Good Vibes American singer-songwriter brings his positive vibes and folk-pop sound to Hong Kong. 8pm.

Tickets from $588. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. hkticketing.com

MAY 17-19

Elmer the Patchwork Elephant Show Based on the classic children’s book by Daivd McKee, Elmer tells the story of an elephant who stands out because of his patchwork of colours. Times vary. Tickets from $195.

Drama Theatre, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wan Chai. hkticketing.com

MAY 18

Paws Party Peak Don’t miss this chance to party with Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation and soak up the city’s spectacular skyline at one of Hong Kong’s most exclusive private residences.

Lots of fun and laughter with comedy shows, live entertainment, poolside food and free flow wine, beer, artisan spirits and soft drinks. 6.3011pm. Tickets $888. 12 Bowen Road. Email pawspartypeak@gmail.com to book.

MAY 21-JUN 16

The Faust Festival 2019 Young actors of Faust International Youth Theatre showcase their talents during this four week long event. The festival will feature 23 shows and 76 performances across different age groups. $135. Mcaulay Studio, Hong Kong Arts Centre, 2 Harbour Road, Wan Chai & YStudio, Youth Square, 238 Chai Wan Road, Chai Wan. urbtix.hk

MAY 25 - JUN 1

Hong Kong Spoken Word Festival Hong Kong Stories, a non-profit society dedicated to the art of storytelling, is hosting an eight day spoken word festival. Enjoy live comedy, poetry, storytelling, podcasting, improv and entertainment, performed by the best spoken-word artists in town.

Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Road, Central. hongkongspokenwordfestival.com

MAY 25

Shrewsbury International School Talk & Tour Learn more about Shrewsbury International School’s unique primary-focused and purpose built facility for children aged three to 11 years.

10am. To book email admissions@shrewsbury. hk or call 2480 1500. shrewsbury.hk 8 expat-parent.com

tell me more MAY 25

Puppy Pawlooza Visit the High School at Hong Kong International School for a day of games and activities such as face painting, bake sales, and dog ice cream to raise funds and awareness for stray dogs and other animals in Hong Kong. Sai Kung Stray Friends will also have an adoption area for those interested in adopting. All are welcomed, including dogs. Free entry. Hong Kong International High School. 1 Red Hill Road, Tai Tam. saikungstrayfriends.org

mum about town

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 children. Ping Shan, New Territories. spartanrace.hk

Treasuring Mothers and Buddha

MAY 25

Women’s Empowerment DayFest Five empowering classes to relax, rejuvenate, express, heal and nourish yourself through yoga and meditation. Includes a healthy lunch and free essential oil blend. 9.25am-5.30pm. $1,950. Platform Coworking Space, 1/F 120 Connaught Road West, Sai Ying Pun. To register, email michelle@ purepotentialworldwide.com

MAY 25

Deep Water Bay Kayak n Run by Action Asia Events Kayaking and running event with a family fun race and an adult race. 7.30am start. $300 for a family team of two and $750 for an adult team of two. Deep Water Bay. actionasiaevents.com

MAY 31

15th Anniversary Networking Party Rachael & Smith have been bringing people together for 15 years and invite you to celebrate with them. 7-9pm. $520 includes two drinks, bring a friend for free. LFK Tower, Central. rachaelandsmith.com

Even though I’ve already celebrated (British) Mother’s Day this year, living the life of an international superstar means I get to celebrate again! As it happens to fall on yet another three day weekend, we’re going camping by the seaside, Treasure Island on Lantau to be precise. There’ll be beach games and water sports to exhaust the kids, plenty of BBQ foods and S’mores, and beautiful sunrises and sunsets (one can only hope!). What s’more could you want? Whilst my other half puts the kids to bed, I may pop off to the restaurant and bar for live music and a cheeky glass of wine or two. One of us may as well make the most of their extended opening hours!

Extended opening hours at Treasure Island Restaurant & Bar: May 13. The bar will be open from 3pm-9pm on Thursday and 10am10pm from Friday to Monday. Pui O Beach, Lantau Island. treasureislandhk.com

Lunching for Hong Kong I’ve been looking forward to this lunch for a while! Three courses of yummy food at FINDS, plus bubbles and fun celebrating the best of our city with Hong Kong Living. There will also be a raffle with prizes in support of HandsOn Hong Kong, a charity supporting Hong Kong’s social sector through volunteer services. Mini beauty services and a chance to mingle with some old pals and new make ones. This one event not to miss.

Hong Kong Living Awards 2019 Charity Lunch: May 8. 12 noon3pm. $550. FINDS, The Luxe Manor, Tsim Sha Tsui. hongkongliving.com

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BOOK NOW JUN 15-16

"The Witches" David Wood’s magical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The Witches uses puppetry, dance and music to bring this story to the stage. Saturday at 6pm and Sunday at 2pm. Tickets from $250. The Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, 2 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. ticketflap.com

JUN 16

Family Fundraising Urban Cycle Ride In honour of United Nations World Refugee Day on June 20, Justice Centre Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Cycling Alliance are hosting a unique urban bicycle ride. Proceeds raised will go to Justice Centre Hong Kong, an NGO which provides free legal and psychosocial assistance to Hong Kong’s most vulnerable forced migrants. Starts at 8.30am.

Entrance is $500 for adults and

OCT 19 $250 for children with bike rentals available. Participants will cycle from Lai Chi Kok to Jordan. justicecentre.org.hk

Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour Live in Macau The legendary Backstreet Boys are back! Enjoy over 20 years of smash

hits as the band perform in Macau as part of their world tour. 8pm.

Tickets from $688. Cotai Arena, The Venetian® Macao, Macau. livenation.hk

win at hongkongliving.com

GIVEAWAYS

enter to win!

Win a two-night stay at Alba Wellness Resort by Fusion in Vietnam!

Set at the foot of the Truong Son Mountains, spanning over 50 hectares of lush gardens and pristine lakes, is Alba Wellness Resort by Fusion.

The nature-inspired destination combines rest, relaxation and the healing qualities of Thanh Tan hot springs to form a quiet respite just 30 kilometres north from Hue. The wellness resort features 30 Deluxe Rooms and 20 Bungalows. Surrounded by manicured gardens with calming waters and tranquil bamboo paths, guests can embrace a holistic lifestyle while lounging by the pool bar, enjoying massage and spa services and rejuvenating in the onsite Japanese onsen baths.

We are giving away a two-night stay at Alba Wellness Resort’s Deluxe Room (accommodates two) to one lucky winner. The prize will include daily breakfast, an outdoor activity pass for highwire and zipline, unlimited access to onsen baths and a foot reflexology treatment at the wellness spa. To enter, visit hongkongliving.com/ giveaways

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PEOPLE Hong Kong Living Easter Fair

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PEOPLE Hong Kong Living Easter Fair colouring competition winners:

Vivienne,

Ho Yuk Fai,

Cheung Hiu Ching,

6 years old

5 years old

10 years old

Cards designed by Cha Siu Papers. chasiupapers.com

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news

Darkness into Light Walk

Fortnum & Mason to open in Hong Kong Iconic luxury British retailer Fortnum & Mason have chosen Hong Kong as the location to open their first standalone store outside of the UK. This will mark a momentous occasion in Fortnum’s 312 year history. The store which is due to open this September at K11 MUSEA in Tsim Sha Tsui will cover 7,000 square feet and feature some of the brand’s most iconic products including tea, biscuits, wine, hampers. A restaurant above will offer stunning views across Hong Kong harbour. fortnumandmason.com

In 2009, in the Phoenix Park in Dublin, 400 people set-off on the inaugural Darkness into Light 5km walk to raise funds for Pieta House, the Irish suicide awareness charity which offers a free counselling service to those in need. From small beginnings, the movement has grown and in 2018 over 200,000 people took part walking across the world in relay; 150 locations, 16 countries and across five continents. Hong Kong will participate this year for the third time.

Last year over 700 people met at Sun Yat Sen Plaza at 4.30am to show their support for family, friends and those who have been bereaved by suicide. Education editor, Amelia Sewell who took

part last year, says, “It’s a really welcoming group of people and a wonderful chance to see Hong Kong at sunrise.”

Although a serious cause, the walk also provides an opportunity for people to connect with their local community in a bright, positive and fun way to raise much needed funds for the free services that are offered to those in need. This year’s walk will take place at 5am on May 11, the money raised will benefit mental health awareness charities here in Hong Kong. Entry is $225 for adults, $45 for children and free for under fives.

People can now register for this year’s events at darknessintolight.ie/event/hong-kong

Winners of the 2019 Global Student Entrepreneur Awards announced Between April 10-12, finalists from around the world came together in Macau to compete at the 2019 Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) organised by the Entrepreneur’s Organization (EO). Over the past year, nearly 1,500 student entrepreneurs applied to participate in local, national and regional competitions with 52 participants attending the final. One of the finalists was Hong Konger (Aaron) So Chak Hei who introduced Marketemy Limited, a provider of e-marketing solutions and hands-on experiences.

Finalist Daniela Blanco from the United States was awarded with the title of 2019 EO GSEA Global Champion, US$25,000 in cash and $75,000 worth of Amazon Web Services credits to support her start-up which helps the chemical industry in becoming more sustainable. gsea.org 14 expat-parent.com

New tangram games test children’s visualrelated literacy skills Dr Simpson Wong, a scholar from Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) has developed a range of new tangram games which test children’s visual-related literacy skills. The five games are based on the principles of traditional Chinese tangrams, these are puzzles consisting of seven flat shapes. After studying the performance of 102 Chinese kindergarten students, aged four to five years old, Dr Wong and his team discovered correlations between the games and the students’ abilities in reading, writing and word identification. By identifying children with visual processing difficulties from an early age, suitable support and training can be given to enhance their learning outcomes.

Teachers and parents will be able to use these new games to test children’s ability with an initial assessment. cpro.hkbu.edu.hk

news

Rigby and Peller launch new swimwear collection World-renowned lingerie brand, Rigby and Peller hosted an “Extravagant Summer” Lingerie Swimsuit Party at The Pavilion at Crown Plaza hotel in Causeway Bay last month to celebrate the launch of their much anticipated summer collection. The luxury lingerie brand and retailer which has famously made underwear for members of the British Royal family has locations across Hong Kong, including Harbour City and Festival Walk. The summer collection is inspired by the Hawaiian tropics, each piece will make you look sophisticated and feel relaxed at the same time. rigbyandpeller.com

Hong Kong Disneyland increases Tove & Libra drops new ticket prices As of April 24, entrance fees for Hong Kong Disneyland increased by three percent. The hike in prices comes after the new Marvel-themed Ant-Man and The Wasp: Nano Battle attraction was opened in March. With losses reported for the fourth year running, this is the fifth time that Disneyland prices have increased since its opening in 2005. Adult one-day tickets have increased to $639 and children’s to $475. Hong Kong residents have been given a two-month grace period to buy all annual passes and one-day tickets at current prices. hongkongdisneyland.com

summer collection

Local fashion retailer Tove & Libra has launched a new capsule collection for Spring/Summer 2019. Designed for Hong Kong’s hot and humid weather, the new line features versatile everyday pieces like a silk openwork vest and ribbed crew cardigan that boasts a chic silhouette and high breathability. Embracing a commitment to sustainability, the minimalist label chooses greener materials like recycled polyester and Tencel yarn in its clothing. The new collection is now available online. Showroom, 2/F, East Ocean Centre, 98 Granville Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. toveandlibra.com

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me & my big idea

Me & My Big Idea Marie Swarbreck of FLEXImums highlights the importance of flexible working in Hong Kong So what’s the big idea?

FLEXImums is about helping women return to the workforce after a break, whether it’s for full time, part-time, or contract work.

I want to make Hong Kong a place where part-time and flexible working is seen as normal. Taking a break from work should not mean you are no longer relevant and it’s not a reason to lose confidence.

How did the idea come about?

I’m from Belgium where many mothers work four days a week; half days on Wednesdays and Fridays, inline with primary school timetables. When I became a mum for the first time, I was looking for similar flexibility which my then-employer was not willing to offer. I started looking into my options in Hong Kong and found that there was a need for education about flexible working and a service for finding it.

How did you make it happen?

As with all new businesses, commitment and perseverance has been important; one of my key skills is that I don’t give up and with this ’new project’, it was no different.

I set up the business, built a website and invested all my time in it, combined with looking after a one year old and going through a second pregnancy. I started small and have grown steadily. I’ve met with a lot of mums and women across Hong Kong, and also lots of entrepreneurs, SMEs and large corporates to understand their challenges and needs.

What have been the challenges of setting up this new idea?

Hong Kong is quite traditional and people/ companies don’t like change therefore we often have to educate, explaining what the advantages are of hiring part-time, job sharing and flexible hours. SMEs are keen to hire part-time, but finding the right talent can sometimes be a challenge.

Mothers have great skill-sets and are good multitaskers; they also tend to be great at time-management.

Tell us about the importance of maintaining a better work-life balance?

In general, work-life balance is of utmost importance for the happiness and health of any person or relationship, may it be at home or at work. If someone is not happy at work, they will eventually leave or get sick.

Mental health has become a topic that gets more attention as well as people tend to work 24/7 having their phones on them all the time. This counts for men and women, we all need a balance.

is Making Initiatives Count, zooming in on policy, measurement and engagement and looking into different layers of inclusion.

We will also be supporting other events throughout the year, focusing on women in the workplace and returning to work.

To find out more about FLEXImums, visit fleximums.com

What is your motto for life?

Having lived in many countries over the past 16 years, eight of which have been in Hong Kong, I want to live a life where I have no regrets. I hear too often people saying they wished they had spent more time with their kids when they were younger, had travelled more or taken more time out for family and friends. I like my job and I work hard to make it a success, but my family is my priority.

What’s the plan for 2019?

I like to set myself goals, not only on a business front but also for staying healthy. After having two children and setting up FLEXImums, sports were not in my life as much as they should have been. I feel that sports are important to maintain the healthy balance that we are all looking for.

Tell us more about any events you have lined up?

We’re currently organising an event in October at Blueprint in Taikoo. It’s the fourth edition of the Gender Equity Conference, which will be supported by corporate organisations and sponsored by Swire. The topic

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things to know

1

Over its 130-years in operation, tens of millions of people from around the globe have taken a ride on the iconic Peak Tram. It is easily one of Hong Kong’s most popular tourist attractions and one of the first places we think to take out-of-towners due to the unique experience and spectacular views. So it comes as no surprise that it is time for an upgrade which will involve a significant investment of $684 million, privately funded by Peak Tramways Company Limited.

2

The temporary suspension which is now in session, having started on April 23, will last for approximately two to three months and will involve several different stages.

4

5 • • •

Things you need to know

The upper and lower termini will also be refurbished to add additional queue capacity in a more comfortable and entertaining environment. Due to the larger carriage sizes, the tracks will also be replaced and the foundations and bridges will be strengthened. The lower terminus will also be relocated further uphill.

The Peak Tram Suspension Everything you need to know about the suspended service

6

During the service suspension, alternative public transport will be available.

The New World First Bus number 15 between Central Star Ferry Pier and The Peak A temporary bus stop will be added at the Garden Road Peak Tram Lower Terminus Public Light Bus number 1 between Central (Hong Kong Station PTI at Two ifc) and The Peak

Where it all began By 1882, around 30 to 40 families called the Peak their home. Due to the rise in the number of residents in the area, approval was granted and the Hong Kong High Level Tramways Company was born. Services commenced on May 30, 1888, and the Peak Tram became the first cable funicular in Asia, extending 1,350 metres and connecting five intermediate stations.

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The Peak Tower and Sky Terrace 428 will remain open during the suspension period.

3

The current tram cars will be replaced to service 210 passengers per tram car from its previous 120 passenger limit. This will mean shorter wait times which comes as a relief as the average waiting time during peak hour has been at least 30 minutes in the past.

expat-parent.com 19

hk baby

HK Baby News Measles outbreak

Hong Kong has seen 61 cases of measles so far this year, a dramatic increase of the 15 cases recorded in 2018. This year’s outbreak began in early March when a Cathay Pacific flight attendant displayed symptoms including

a fever and rash. Of the 61 cases reported this year, 29 have been airport or airline personnel.

The Centre for Health Protection has set up a vaccination station at the airport to prevent possible spread of the infection, to date the

station have vaccinated 8,160 people.

Measles has an incubation period from seven up to 21 days. Symptoms include fever, skin rash, cough, runny nose and red eyes. In accordance with the Hong Kong Childhood Immunisation Programme, babies are given the first dose of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine at 12 months and the second dose at Primary One (set to be lowered to 18 months). Immunity will develop about two weeks after having the vaccine. One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective against measles while two doses provide 97% effectiveness. Check with your doctor for availability of the vaccination.

The Hong Kong Government recommend the following measures to help protect against measles: • Good personal and environmental hygiene • Wash hands regularly especially after sneezing • Cover the nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing For more information, see info.gov.hk

Limited edition Dumbo Retykle pops up at Repulse Bay collection launched by Francfranc Japanese home decor shop, Francfranc launched a limited edition Disney “DUMBO Collection” in celebration of the release of Disney’s live-action film Dumbo. Inspired by Dumbo and the circus tent, Francfranc’s latest collection of pouches, bookboxes, coasters, mugs and accessories is full of nostalgic stripes and elephants. Available online and in all Hong Kong stores. hk.francfranc.net

Retykle is coming to Repulse Bay! The luxury e-commerce platform which retails designer children’s clothing for up to 90% off the original retail price will host a pop up from now until 20 expat-parent.com

July 7. Shoppers will be able to purchase clothes, shoes and accessories for children from newborn to 12 years old. 9am-5pm. The Repulse Bay. retykle.com

hk baby

The ancient practice of belly binding Jenny Ostling explains to Becky Love how belly binding can help a mother’s postpartum recovery

This treatment is applied daily for a minimum of 10 sessions up to 40 sessions. The best results are of course seen in those who opt for 40 sessions, but even 10 sessions can show a marked improvement.

The best time to start is one to two weeks post-childbirth for natural deliveries. For c-sections I recommend waiting approximately six weeks.

Mother’s feel nurtured, pampered and taken care of. They also love the added benefits of healing and slimming down faster.

Belly Binding is an ancient traditional practice. It helps support the mother’s body after childbirth and helps her to heal, slim down as well as re-align internal organs following the weakening of muscles and ligaments of the abdomen, pelvic floor, back and uterus.

The practice is utilised by many cultures in Asia, South America and Africa. Depending on the culture, the wrap is worn daily, anywhere from 14 to 100 days.

I am trained in both the Traditional Indonesian Jamu technique and Arvigo Techniques from South

American. Certain techniques I use may help with a variety of issues including painful periods, infertility, hormonal imbalances, digestive issues and more. I incorporate both traditions in my belly binding treatments to help tone, re-align, expel air, warm and support the belly and organs.

I look after mum so she can look after the baby. Belly binding is a wonderful treatment as part of a mother’s postpartum recovery when she needs it the most. It works really well alongside the confinement traditions in Hong Kong too.

The treatment includes a warming full body massage. I use a special essential oil blend during the abdominal massage to expel wind and re-align organs. A herbal abdominal mask is then applied followed by the wrapping of the belly. I recommend wearing the belly wrap for at least six to eight hours per day.

Jenny offers her ever popular Arvigo Abdominal Massages and the super relaxing Prenatal Massages on top of the Belly Binding at The Round Clinic.

For more details call 2648 2612 or visit theroundclinic.com

expat-parent.com 21

hk baby

Baby Panic Stations Who to call when you don’t know who to call. Amelia Sewell lends a hand women who can advise you on what to do, whether it be in English, Cantonese, Mandarin and Korean. lll-hk.org

The Family Zone Started by Yvonne Heavyside, a lactation consultant and community nurse from the UK, Yvonne and her team offer one to one sessions on a myriad of issues. So whether you need a postnatal check up on a caesarean scar, think there’s something wrong with the latch or want advice on how to get your baby to sleep, The Family Zone experts will set your mind at ease. thefamilyzone.hk

Central Health

S

o here’s the thing – sometimes the challenges of parenthood start pretty soon after the baby arrives. Few of us will have to wait until the terrible twos for the trials to beginning; sometimes those little ones come out of the womb ready to put parents straight to the test.

You can read every book under the sun before the baby’s arrival but only Mother Nature knows what you are going to have thrown at you and it is usually a case of learning on the job. From colic to engorgement, reflux to aggravated perineum stitches (yes, sorry, that’s a thing) or just reluctant sleepers and eaters, parenthood can be a steep learning curve.

But whatever those early days involve, here are two key things to remember.

Rule number one: Don’t suffer in silence

years becoming experts at all these new things that life is so rudely chucking at you. Yes, it might require spending some money, but sometimes, that is a small price if it will keep your sanity intact.

Who to call?

The first port of call for any major health worries (yours or the baby’s) should obviously be your doctor. New mothers are known to be worriers and in many instances, the doctor will just reassure you that everything is fine and normal.

On the other hand, some things like mastitis, tongue-tie and ongoing reflux require a little medical assistance.

For problems and questions that do not require a doctor, below is a helpful list of names and numbers.

Annerley

There are no points for bravery and there is nothing to be gained from pretending that everything is fine when you are actually finding it all a bit overwhelming. So, if you are struggling - tell someone. Aside from the fact that it is just good to share a problem, you may stumble across people who have been through the same thing themselves and can offer advice.

Over the years, Annerley has been a saviour to many Hong Kong mothers, offering home visits and extra help for those daunting early days. Post-natal depression support, wound checking, lactation guidance and general question answering are all on the list of services. No home is too far – they are happy to travel to the New Territories and outlying islands. 2983 1558, annerley.com.hk

Rule number two: Don’t be afraid to call in the professionals

La Leche League Hong Kong

Hong Kong is full of people who have spent 22 expat-parent.com

Entirely dedicated to solving your breastfeeding woes, they have a list of friendly

For those who have used an obstetrician from Central Health in delivery, the midwives are also available to help postpartum (for insurance reasons, they can not visit new patients). On top of midwife home visits, they offer baby sleep workshops and support groups for mothers’ emotional well-being. This is a great way to meet other mums who are at the same stage as you and looking to swap notes on how to stay sane! 2824 0822, centralhealth.com.hk

The Nanny Experts The Nanny Experts are on hand to help find maternity nurses for mothers needing some guidance. They aim to increase maternal confidence and can also help with sleep training. Available to book 24 hours a day, these are the people to call when you need a night nurse in the house in order to get some proper sleep. 6295 6051, thenannyexperts.hk

Matilda International Hospital The Matilda International Hospital has a team of community midwives who are available to answer questions, help with breastfeeding problems and be a general sounding board for anything postpartum and newborn related.

They’re happy to visit over weekends too. 2849 0321, matilda.org

Edith Lemardelee Edith is a lady many people have turned to over the years for help. A native French speaker with impeccable English she works alongside mothers in the homes as a maternity/night nurse. She is also experienced with twins. 9170 1626

expat-parent.com 23

C ST OV O ER RY

Are you one glass of wine away from a meltdown? Nicole Cooley on how five Hong Kong Mums hold it together

R

emember life before kids? When you ran that marathon, got promoted, put on pants and travelled without strangers glaring at your irrational, demanding toddler. Sorry to break the little daydream you’ve just slipped into, but those simple times are not likely to return anytime soon. So we’ve asked five Mum’s to share their tips on how to stay sane in Hong Kong with kids because let’s face it, it’s not easy to pull through after the little terrors have drawn on the walls and shaved the dog.

Sonia Nazzer On top of being a mum to four boys and one girl, Sonia is the Founder of Academy of Dance, whilst her partner Ben is a full time art teacher and rugby enthusiast.

Join a mum and baby group.

I have loved meeting other mums and my little one is quite social too.

Make some alone time with your partner.

We have shared a tradition pretty much since we met, of sharing a bottle of wine or a pot of tea on the balcony after the kids get to sleep, usually around 8-9pm, to chat about our days.

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Teach your kids to be responsible.

If they forget things, I don’t rescue them. I empathise with them, but I can’t spend my whole day fixing everything when they are fully capable.

R VE Y O R C TO S

Natalia Obolensky Natalia works full time as the General Manager of Charlotte Tilbury Asia and her husband works in finance. They have an 18-month-old daughter Tatiana and Natalia is six months pregnant with their second child.

Flex the flexible work hours.

I don’t have to be in the office until 10am so that gives me about three hours to spend with Tatiana when she gets up at 7am. This time is so important to me and I never feel like I don’t see her. I also make it home in time to put her in bed, even if it’s just 10-15 minutes. I sometimes have to go back to the office afterwards but it’s worth it.

Make the most of Daddy daycare.

My husband takes a turn to look after Tatiana on the weekends for a few hours, so I use this time to have brunch with the girls or take a trip to the spa.

Share the love.

Pass the kids on to family and friends.

We don’t have any family in Hong Kong but our parents come at least once a year each so they help out. Our friends are a great support network especially when last minute things crop up, they are always there to help.

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26 expat-parent.com

R VE Y O R C TO S

Jamie Cheung Jamie is the Director & Associate General Counsel at the Hong Kong office of Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan. When she’s not traveling around Asia for work, she is raising her three year old boy together with her husband.

Get out, see friends, relax.

I’ve started venturing out for evening meals with my friends every once in a while (although I’m still not good at carving time out for this, as I like to make it home for bedtime) which I think is needed, otherwise it’s easy to lose touch with your friends.

Don’t feel guilty about having time for yourself.

It’s easy to lose yourself when you are solely focused on work and being a mother.

Reach out to other mums if you need help.

It will surprise you how many other women have been through the same thing.

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R VE Y O R C TO S

Kimberly Arth Kimberly is Co-Founder of PIVOT, a Hong Kong-based recruitment platform. She is also mum to three kids and moved to Hong Kong from New York with her husband Aaron in 2015.

I get help from a lot of very special people.

Lyn and Karren (our helpers) are incredible in all that they do everyday. Lauren is not only my business partner, but my best friend, so we keep each other sane on all levels. And beyond that I feel incredibly lucky to have a wonderful, supportive husband and a great network of friends.

For me working out is essential to having balance.

I love to run in the mornings along the promenade from Repulse Bay to Deep Water Bay. It lets me clear my head and have a much more productive day. I also love to hike with friends. It’s a great way to decompress, get in a workout and catch up at one time!

It’s all about perspective.

Some days are great and some days feel like a complete disaster but in the end it’s all about focusing on what’s important, which

to me is having a happy family. Lauren and I try to maximize our work time when the kids are at school. It doesn’t always work out

perfectly, but my goal is to be around for my kids when they get home and to be present (phone away).

expat-parent.com 29

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ESF Language

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www.esf.org.hk

R VE Y O R C TO S

Lauren Lin Co-Founder of PIVOT, Lauren is inspired daily by the women and mothers she meets here.

She lives in Hong Kong with her three young children and her husband.

When I’m with family, I try my best to be present.

There is no perfect formula and we can only do our best! I think it’s very easy to be hard on ourselves and feel guilty for missing out on something with the kids, not feel like we’re working hard enough, or wish we were able to be in enough places at the same time. I surround myself with positive, ambitious and wonderful friends who inspire me daily. And I have an amazing husband who always encourages me to stay optimistic and go for it.

My husband and I always make time to actually have a conversation and connect.

Although it’s sometimes difficult to schedule. We also have recently been on a couple of holidays with just the two of us and it’s been wonderful to have the time with one another. It’s so important and worthwhile not to take our relationship for granted, and to intentionally make time for the two of us.

I commit to my “me” time at the gym.

I enjoy running, Pilates and lifting weights.

It’s my time to clear my mind and always makes me feel balanced, energised, and ready to take on the day.

expat-parent.com 31

must haves

#2

Just for mum 18 ways to say “I love you” this Mother’s Day

Big Love Set of 4 Teaspoons $380 from Alessi townhouse.com.hk

#1 Materialism Gift Set $1,780 from Tom Dixon tomdixon.net

#4

#5

18k Rose Gold Diamond Ring $7956 from Kristina Rybaltchenko Hong Kong rybaltchenko.com

#6

#3 Sonos One Smart Speaker $1,999 from Sonos sonos.com

#7

Perrier-Jouët Blason Rose $558 from Perrier-Jouët perrier-jouet.com

Pixie Bra Front 486 from Pure Apparel $ be-pure.com 20 Years in Asia Gold Edition Bike $18,100 from Brompton brompton.com/gold

#8

Magic Kiss Lipstick Trio Kit $729 from Charlotte Tilbury lanecrawford.com

#9 Nespresso Essenza Plus $1,788 from Nespresso nespresso.com 32 expat-parent.com

must haves

#10

#12

Hong Kong Skyline Candle $250 or $350 scented from Lion Rock Press thelionrockpress.com

Fatto a Mano Pink Champagne Glass $795 per piece from Riedel townhouse.com.hk

#13 ‘Thanks Mum’ Greeting Card $60 from Kikki.K Locations across Hong Kong

#11 Petrified Wood Bookends $1,950 from TREE tree.com.hk

#14

Face Creme Visage 50ml $690 from Bonpoint Skincare Collection Locations across Hong Kong

#18

The Ultimate Pamper Gift Box - EcoDrive ‘Gift Better’ $1,200 from Bydeau bydeau.com

Voyageur Witney Backpack in Blue Palm Print $3,490 from TUMI tumi-hk.com

#15

#16

#17

Sterling silver 18K gold plated bangles with natural gemstone $740 to $1,370 from Kura Jewellery Mother's Day promotion: 25% Off kurajewellery.com

Oasis V Bra Tank $580 from Pure Apparel be-pure.com expat-parent.com 33

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#HKLA2019

You voted, we counted‌ turn the pages to find out which Hong Kong beaches, restaurants and schools struck gold this year

expat-parent.com 35

#HKLA2019

BEST BEACH

REPULSE BAY BEACH With easy access to cocktails and known to be one of Hong Kong’s most famous beaches, it’s no wonder these sandy shores were voted Hong Kong’s best beach!

BEST HOTEL

THE PENINSULA HONG KONG

It is of great delight to learn that The Peninsula Hong Kong has been voted “Hong Kong Living Award 2019 – Best Hotel”, which marks the recognition bestowed to the team of the Grande Dame for its renowned offering for travellers.

Mr Chong, Area Vice President and Managing Director, The Peninsula Hong Kong and The Peninsula Shanghai First opened in 1928, the 5-Star Peninsula Hotel has always been synonymous with luxury and comfort, operating prestigious properties in ten major cities around the globe, including their flagship hotel right here in Hong Kong. With impeccable service and loyal guests who return time and time again, The Peninsula rightfully earns its place as a favourite for our readers. The majestic lobby with vaulted ceilings and ornate cornices is a must-see. peninsula.com

BEST RELOCATION SERVICE

CROWN RELOCATIONS Relocating is a team effort, and Crown Relocations have been voted the best relocation service due to their outstanding team. With over 50 years experience, you’re guaranteed they will get the job done, hassle-free. crownrelo.com

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#HKLA2019

expat-parent.com 37

#HKLA2019 BEST GYM

PURE FITNESS

We’re honoured to be voted best gym by Hong Kong Living readers. Having grown with the Hong Kong fitness community for nearly 17 years now, the energy and spirit of our home never fails to amaze us.

Thank you so much!

Gary Wise, Regional Marketing Director, the Pure Group A gym purely dedicated to serving the community by promoting a healthy and active lifestyle throughout Hong Kong, Pure Fitness provides an inspiring environment and passionate professionals to help you reach your goals. Offering state-of-the-art equipment including Fitness On Demand virtual classes, exhilarating group exercise, innovative programmes and personal training, Pure Fitness will tone you up, keep you fit and get you energised. pure-fitness.com

BEST BEAUTY SALON

SENSE OF TOUCH

Truly an honour to have won these awards and have our loyal followers support us all these years.

Thank you to Hong Kong Living and our spa clients for voting. Our spas continue to strive for excellence in our treatments and services.

Multi-award winning and leading day spa Sense of Touch takes out the Best Beauty Salon Award once again, and it’s no surprise. With premium spa and beauty services across Hong Kong, being pampered couldn’t be any more convenient. Treat yourself to one of their many traditional treatments, or something that will give you long-lasting results. Either way, you will walk away feeling relaxed and spoilt. senseoftouch.com.hk

BEST RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX

THE REPULSE BAY COMPLEX

For the sixth year in a row, we are very pleased to win this annual award again. It is wonderful to be recognised as Hong Kong’s ultimate oceanfront residential complex, offering quality service and professional management. We really appreciate it!

Famously known as the building with a feng shui hole in it to bring good luck, Repulse Bay Complex overlooks Repulse Bay Beach and the South China Sea from Repulse Bay Road. Offering an oasis of calm and serenity, luxury sea-view accommodation, two award-winning restaurants and a shopping arcade, residents are treated to some of the best facilities that Hong Kong has to offer. therepulsebay.com

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#HKLA2019 BEST HIKE

DRAGON’S BACK

Simple to get to, and a fairly easy hike with scenic views, Dragon’s Back is a hit amongst our readers, locals and out-of-towners.

BEST RAINY DAY ACTIVITY

We asked you: What is the best hike in Hong Kong?

TIKITIKI BOWLING BAR

The Peak Trail

Twin Peaks and Violet Hills

e cid

i Su

arp

Sh

iff

Cl

ak

Pe

ose Macleh3 e g Sta

High Island Reservoir With one restaurant, two bars and ten bowling lanes, Tikitiki Bowling Bar is a favourite amongst those living not only in Sai Kung but throughout Hong Kong. An entertainment venue perfect for a family day out, couples date night or a friendly catch-up, it’s no wonder Tikitiki has been voted a favourite amongst our readers! With a live band on weekends and creative cocktails that will hit your sweet spot, Tikitiki is the ultimate rainy day activity. tikitiki.hk

Lion’s Rock

Dragon’s Back

expat-parent.com 39

#HKLA2019 BEST REAL ESTATE

BEST RESTAURANT

OKAY.COM

WOOLOOMOOLOO STEAKHOUSE

Our readers know they will be okay in the hands of OKAY.com - which is why they were voted as Hong Kong’s best real estate agents. As Hong Kong’s trusted property agency, OKAY.com has the most up-to-date listings and responsive property agents to help you find your next home or property investment. With a website complete with insights, analysis and property news, you can be sure you’re getting the right information from agents in-the-know.

OKAY.com

BEST LUXURY APARTMENT

QUEEN’S GARDEN

With a spacious open-air rooftop terrace, this sky-high dining experience on the 31st floor is like no other. Inspired by the laidback, food loving Australian ethos, the premium Aussie beef will have your mouth-watering as you enjoy wrap-around views of bustling Wan Chai and beyond. wooloo-mooloo.com

BEST PET SERVICE

PETS CENTRAL This prestigious property is located on Old Peak Road in MidLevels and offers quality living and an elegant lifestyle. The panoramic views of Victoria Harbour are undoubtedly some of the best apartment views in Hong Kong and the open-air sky garden on the 23rd floor is the perfect place to catch the Chinese New Year fireworks. With health, fitness and wellness facilities and equipment at the gym and spa complex, the living is easy at Queen’s Garden. queensgarden.com

BEST HOSPITAL

GLENEAGLES HONG KONG HOSPITAL

We truly understand the role all pets play in families and our aim is to keep these pets healthy, happy, cuddleable and lovable till the day they leave our lives.

We only want the best for our furry friends - they’re family after all!

Pets Central is the leading veterinary and animal care hospital in Hong Kong, and a favourite amongst our readers. Two of their hospitals are set to operate on a 24/7 basis, so you have peace of mind that they are there for you, any time of the day. pets-central.com

It’s our great honour to receive the award, thank you for your trust and we will continue to provide high-quality healthcare services at our best.

Gleneagles located in Wong Chuk Hang is a state-of-the-art, multispecialty private tertiary hospital designed to provide the people of Hong Kong with high quality and accessible healthcare services. As experts in their field, the hospital also contributes to the training and development of healthcare professionals and advancement of clinical research. gleneagles.hk 40 expat-parent.com

#HKLA2019 BEST PRE-SCHOOL / KINDERGARTEN

WOODLAND PRE-SCHOOLS

BEST PRIMARY SCHOOL

NORD ANGLIA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

“...Sincere thanks to our Woodland parents for taking the time to recommend us and trusting us to share in the start of their child’s amazing learning journey... ” For 40 years, Woodland Pre-Schools have set the standard in Hong Kong for quality early years education, ensuring the best start and easy transition into primary years. Both parents and children will find that Woodland boasts a wide variety of advantages, ensuring a wonderful, convenient and comprehensive pre-school experience for every family. woodlandschools.com

BEST EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY

MINISPORT HONG KONG

We are very proud of the progress our pupils make. The opportunities we give children to develop holistically are outstanding and we do so in an environment of stimulating learning for each individual child, and with respect to all cultures and nationalities represented in the school.

Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong is one of the leading International Schools in Hong Kong - so it comes as no surprise that they have been awarded the ‘Best Primary School’ trophy. They believe that there is no limit to what their students can achieve and encourage them to be ambitious, whilst offering a supportive and premium education with high-quality learning. nais.hk

BEST EDUCATION CONSULTANT

From our whole team, thank you for selecting us for this award. We are thrilled and it is clearly one of the most significant milestones since our launch in 2012.

Minisport Hong Kong proudly teach a variety of sports to over 400 children per week through school programmes, holiday camps and private events. Their mature and professional team pride themselves on offering a bright and fun environment for kids to learn and play. sportsclassesforkidshk.com

HONG KONG EDUCATION & TUTORING SERVICES Since 2003, Hong Kong Education & Tutoring Services (HKETS) have worked with hundreds of students from different backgrounds.

HKETS offers students a range of educational services including individual and small-group tuition, overseas education advice and university application assistance. hkets.net expat-parent.com 41

#HKLA2019 BEST ALL-THROUGH SCHOOL

BEST SECONDARY SCHOOL

MALVERN COLLEGE HONG KONG

STAMFORD AMERICAN SCHOOL HONG KONG

We appreciate the support of the readers and our parents who have helped develop our school into a vibrant, caring community. We can’t wait for our first graduating class in 2023!

WIth an impressive 150-year history, Malvern College Hong Kong seeks to develop forward-thinking, independent individuals who demonstrate strength of character, confidence, responsibility and compassion. Their rich and varied learning environment encourages inquisitive and critical learning and prepares students to face life and the challenges that lie ahead following graduation. malverncollege.org.hk

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The goal at Stamford American School Hong Kong is to instill an enthusiasm in their students for lifelong learning and a sense of global awareness. It is just as much about high-quality learning as it is preparing students for what is to come after graduation. The inspiring world of education at Stamford American School Hong Kong produces happy students, parents and staff, making for a deserved winner in their category. sais.edu.hk

#HKLA2019 PERSON OF THE YEAR

Paul Zimmerman Paul Zimmerman is the elected district councillor for Southern District (Pok Fu Lam), the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, and a co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks. Now dedicated full-time to public service, Paul advocates good planning and sustainable development

BEST HONG KONG RUMOUR THIS YEAR

through many NGOs and alliances. He was awarded an Honorary Membership of the American Institute of Architects (HK) for his role in improving the harbourfront of Victoria Harbour.

We’re all getting $4,000 from the government

FAVOURITE HONG KONG LIVING PUBLICATION

hongkongliving.com WHAT WOULD MAKE HONG KONG LIFE BETTER?

Great rental deals

Publisher of monthly magazines including Southside & the Peak, Mid-levels Magazine, Expat Parent and Sai Kung Magazine. And the winner is... our hongkongliving.com website (by a hair!) Your favourite 2019 source to discover Hong Kong’s best hikes, happenings and hit lists.

expat-parent.com 43

44 expat-parent.com

schools

School news New head for Woodland group 2018 was a big year for Woodland preschools after the acquisition by Cognita from the Hughes family. And now there are more exciting changes ahead with the appointment of a new General Manager.

Adam Patterson takes his seat on May 1, overseeing all nine of the Woodland campuses and the 2,500 children who attend. Patterson is currently the Head of Early Years for the Australian International School in Singapore, which is also a Cognitaowned school. With 25 years of experience in six different countries, Patterson is a prime candidate to take on such a prominent role in Hong Kong. woodlandschools.com

Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong win design award Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong celebrated in April after winning the Asia Pacific Property Awards 20192020 for Public Service Architecture. This accolade is a part of the global International Property Awards, one of the world’s leading programmes aimed at recognising and rewarding excellence in the property sector.

The award comes as a result of Shrewsbury’s sharply focused aim to enhance the learning environment for children aged three to 11. Changeable classroom configurations, wide corridors and collaborative learning environments

Boarding schools reach the next generation In March, Hong Kong was introduced to the latest global boarding school initiative; Whittle School and Studios is a vastly ambitious concept from Chris Whittle, an educational entrepreneur who has raised USD $700 million and gathered a team of world-leading and award-winning experts to curate the curriculum.

were just some of the features which dazzled the judges.

Stephen Holroyd, the Director of Schools for Shrewsbury in Asia is pretty thrilled about it. “This is well-deserved recognition for the Palmer and Turner and in-house project teams that committed to design the school, from the ground up, to be one of the best purpose-built primary schools in the region,” he said.

Shrewsbury opened in August last year.

With 250 students currently enrolled, that number is expected to reach 400 in the next academic year. shrewsbury.hk

His grand master plan is to create a network of boarding schools around the world which allow students to move easily and frequently between destinations in order to broaden their learning experience beyond the current static nature of education.

The very glossy prospectus refers to it as “the first global school, created by an international consortium of educators, artists, technologists, and experts in law, real estate, recruitment, and more.”

The first two schools open later this year, in New York City and Shenzhen. The third is set for Washington DC. Once these are established, the plan is to have a Whittle School in every major city around the globe.

Watch this space. whittleschool.org expat-parent.com 45

schools

Malvern College PreSchool Island West

Outdoor adventures and bilingual robots, Amelia Sewell reports on what’s in store for students of the new Hong Kong Island pre-school

M

alvern College may have only arrived in Hong Kong three years ago but it already has its feet firmly under the table.

After the opening of the first pre-school in Kowloon in August 2017, the main school launched in August last year, and the forthcoming academic year sees the opening of the second pre-school, this time on Hong Kong Island.

Island life Malvern College Pre-School Island West will be situated on Connaught Road West in Sai Ying Pun with a similar set up to the Coronation Kowloon campus: the model has proved exceptionally popular so, as the saying goes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The new site will be another bright and 46 expat-parent.com

airy 8,000 square foot space with room for 250 students from pre-nursery to K2. The curriculum will be bilingual EYFS within the Reggio Emilia philosophy. Offering half days as well as a playgroup from six months, the school will be led by Jacqueline McNalty who is also the founding principal at the Coronation Kowloon campus.

Within months of opening, the first pre-school found itself reaching capacity.

McNalty anticipates that take up at the new site will be equally speedy.

“We launched with our founding families and were full pretty quickly. So with Island West being a new campus, we expect something similar,” she says.

For those thinking that they might be interested in one of these spots, this should be seen as a gentle warning shot

schools

– dawdle at your peril! One of the biggest selling points is that a Malvern pre-school place gives admissions priority to the main school (MCHK) in Tai Po; and it doesn’t take a genius to work out that if Malvern is doubling its pre-school offering it will simultaneously decrease its capacity for external applicants at primary level. So if MCHK is on your radar for primary and secondary, it is undoubtedly worth doing some research on a preschool place.

go straight through from the pre-schools.

“They have to have the right academic as well as social and emotional elements.

But we’re tracking that careful and if we’ve got doubts, we will start those conversations with parents early. It’s an ongoing conversation.”

The great outdoors With any new school that opens in Hong Kong, parents want to know what it is

offering that is different to the others; what gap does it fill? In the case of Malvern, there is one very key element to the broader curriculum that sets it apart from many others – the association with the Forest School.

The Forest School is a set up that offers hands-on learning experiences in woodlands or other natural environments. Established in the 1990s, its aim is to foster “resilient, confident, independent and creative learners who take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.” As such, students attending Malvern frequently find themselves outside the classroom at one of the two designated Sai Kung sites for outdoor learning. Both areas have access to a beach as well as woodland; one has an organic farm with a goat and rabbits; the other has space for planting and growing.

Exposure to the Forest School curriculum is not just for the older pupils; the pre-school children also have fortnightly excursions with their dedicated Forest School teacher, giving their school experience a variety and diversity rarely seen in Hong Kong. This use of the outdoors for education though is very much in line with the Reggio Emilia approach, which views the environment as the ‘third teacher’.

It gives the pupils a breadth and depth to their education and teaches them skills not often found in textbooks.

“Outdoor education is a fantastic thing for children of all years and with the addition of the Forest School, we’ve got

Smooth moves As McNalty points out, another significant bonus is that the move from pre-school to primary, which can often be a shock to the system for little people, is made as smooth as possible when transferring from one Malvern school to the next. This is because pre-school pupils have opportunities to access the facilities at MCHK periodically; they see the P1 classrooms, meet the teachers and explore the library.

“We start the transition process early so that by the time the children start, they already feel familiar in the new environment and they go with such confidence. We also work in close partnership with the P1 teachers, providing progress reports and work samples on each pupil. So it’s a real advantage being the little sister school,” explains McNalty.

But equally, she is keen to point out that admission to MCHK is a separate application and it is not a given that pupils expat-parent.com 47

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schools the best balance; innovation, creativity, inquiry, connection to nature. Our focus is on developing collaboration, communication and critical thinking skills with an emphasis on active, play-based learning.” says McNalty.

Recent Forest School excursions have included using tools, working with wood, understanding safety through lighting fires and then using these to cook food- all big and important concepts for the under fives, most of whom are probably more accustomed to air-conditioned rooms, flashy iPads and food ready and waiting on a table.

One thing a Hong Kong education often lacks is demonstrating to children that as much can be learnt outside of the classroom, as can be learnt in it. So it is refreshing to see that Malvern’s successful integration into Hong Kong is challenging the idea of what parents can expect from schools in a major city and providing a fresh approach to those lucky enough to be offered a place.

“We’re pretty unique in Hong Kong,” says McNalty, “and our parents love it.”

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schools PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE Jacqueline McNalty What brought about deciding to open a second pre-school?

Our first pre-school opened in August 2017 at Coronation Circle in Kowloon.

Our strong reputation in the market was quickly established, mostly due to word of mouth, and we are now are almost at full capacity with a wait list for many of our classes. Therefore, we wanted to provide more families living in Hong Kong with an opportunity to have a Malvern College preschool experience and we responded to the numerous requests to open on the Hong Kong Island side. Our new pre-school is right at the heart of the island, in the neighborhood of Sai Ying Pun, an area that celebrates cultural diversity, and which has a rich heritage, reflecting some of the key attributes of Malvern College itself.

Tell us more about Malvern’s association with the Forest School We are very excited and proud that we are one of the first schools in Hong Kong to run the Forest School programme. Our world-leading programme is led by qualified and experienced Level 3 Forest School practitioners who work exclusively with us. It allows our pupils to build confidence, physical skills, self-awareness and social skills, while learning about the natural world through hands-on experiences in a woodland and beach environment.

Does technology have a role in your pre-school curriculum?

We believe in the use of education technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to support teaching and learning. Technology is part of our EYFS curriculum and falls under the category of ‘Understanding the World’ with outcomes we need to teach and record progress in. We understand that our pupils are citizens of the future and our use of technology is considered very carefully before it is used through the lens ‘How can this tool enhance teaching and learning?’.

Our beloved, bilingual robot Zenbo has already become an integral part of our programme. Zenbo can follow and track the pupils and responds to voice activated commands. Our ‘bee bots’ have also inspired a healthy interest in coding for pupils. And

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it is important to remember that our outdoor Forest School programme provides an excellent - and important counterbalance to this area.

How do you smooth the transition from pre-school to the main school?

We are a tight-knit community and we have a very close relationship with MCHK. We have a planned transition programme for our K2 pupils with our sister school. As part of the transition process the pre-school K2 pupils will frequently visit the main school campus and have PE and gymnastics lessons in the primary gym and dance lessons in the dance studio. The pupils also get valuable time to visit the ‘Grub’ (cafeteria) to eat lunch and afterwards spend time with the P1 teachers, working inside a P1 classroom for a few hours. The pupils also have a special graduation ceremony inside the auditorium of MCHK in June, so they become very comfortable with the spaces and moving around the ‘big’ school. We also provide a very comprehensive pupil handover file to the P1 teachers at MCHK. Together, with all these strategies and measures in place, our K2 pupils transition from MCPS to MCHK with confidence and a very happy start to primary schooling.

What’s your background in education?

As well as being a wife and mother to two busy boys (Declan aged 8 and Hunter aged 6) I have been involved in school leadership and early childhood education for 26 years, working in Australia, the UK, China and Singapore. During my career I have undertaken different leadership roles including principal, acting head, vice principal, head of early years as well as curriculum coordinator and workshop leader. I was 21 when I was invited to help lead and open a brand-new preschool in my native Australia, which was an amazing privilege and opportunity and instilled my love for opening new schools. I went on to help open two more pre-schools in Australia before moving internationally with my husband who is also in education. In 2013, I was invited to be on the team to help set up a $250 million school in Singapore. I have obtained my Masters in Education and Bachelor of Teaching, majoring in early childhood and been awarded the gold certificate in International School Leadership from the Principal Training Centre (PTC). I am inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and am passionate about working in partnership with my amazing staff and with parents to educate their children.

schools

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life & style

Mad about makeup Maddie Ng talks to Becky Love about her love of makeup, and how to save yourself from a summer meltdown

Elizabeth Kezia, instagram: @ekjayacuisine

I

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was born and raised in Hong Kong where I attended Singapore International and then German Swiss International Schools.

When I was growing up my interest in makeup was extremely limited; I used concealer to cover my spots, a bit of liner and if it was a special occasion some lipgloss and mascara. Makeup was intimidating to me something that I worried would make me look foolish or be teased for wearing in excess. I was never taught as a teenager how to use it.

It seemed that it was just something that I was expected to know from the womb - so not knowing how to do makeup is something that I totally understand.

I left university in 2016 after studying history for four years and came back to Hong Kong with absolutely no idea what I was going to do with my life. My last year at University among other things had left me with a whole host of mental health issues including a period of prolonged insomnia. During this time I would watch hours of Instagram videos of people putting makeup on. Eventually I thought to myself that this was something I could definitely do as well and when Rihanna debuted her brand Fenty Beauty I bought a few products. As someone with an addictive personality my collection grew to pretty embarrassing proportions and the time I spent on YouTube and Instagram grew with it. I spent hours watching influencers and beauty gurus painting their faces and discussing products. It was the first interest I had ever had in my life that came close to a passion.

As I recovered, makeup was not only a creative outlet, but it became a tool that I used to check in with myself. If I had the energy and motivation to put my makeup on then I was feeling good. However, it still was not on my radar as a potential career path.

In the summer of 2018 after much soul searching, I finally decided that I wanted to go back to University to become a mental health nurse. Having undergone a series of mental health issues myself I was inspired by the people that had helped me and I wanted to do the same for others. However, I was eventually told that I would have to wait at least another year before I could start a

life & style Tips and tricks to make your makeup survive the Hong Kong summer • First things first: Sun Cream – one that protects against UVA and UVB rays and is at least SPF 30 or above. There is little point discussing makeup if you’re skin gets fried.

Clicksby_Shikha

• Layering is key: Many light layers of product well blended into the skin will help to keep everything locked in. When using cream products (moisturisers, foundations, concealers, cream blushes etc.) you want the skin to feel slightly tacky without being greasy.

to bring out the confidence that everyone innately possesses. This is one of the reasons why I offer classes so that everyone and anyone, woman or man, boy or girl who wants to learn how to do makeup can. Because not only is the process of applying makeup fun, it also gives you confidence and allows your harshest critic, i.e. yourself to see you as you already are without anything on at all.

I hold the firm belief that a good makeup artist while honest is there to build you up not to make you feel that it is a grievous sin to go out into the world with a bare face. Makeup is armour, is experimentation, is creativity, is art, but what it most certainly is not is a filter that makes you acceptable to step outside the boundaries of your home. You are good enough as you are. I hope that whoever or wherever you are that we will meet one day and be a part of each other’s stories.

• Primers! For your face and eyelids and even lips – this will make your makeup last longer in any season, but in the summer it’s particularly useful.

• Waterproof products are essential: Eyeliner, mascara, brow products and so on. If you have watery eyes you’ll want to use these year round, but in the summer everybody should be using waterproof.

• Use cream products underneath powder products: e.g. apply a cream eyeshadow base on top of primer and then apply powder shadow.

• Powder first: before applying any other products (eyebrow pencil, eyeshadow, blush etc). This will ensure you have a nice surface to work on and absorb any moisture that’s already on your skin.

Richard Gordon Photography

course. I was left despondent and frustrated.

On a whim I decided to meet with a friend of a friend who is a makeup artist in Hong Kong who suggested that I enroll in a makeup artist training course. He pointed out to me that being surrounded by others who shared my interest in a creative environment would be very different from staring at a screen.

That night I went home and Googled makeup schools in Europe and came across the Glauca Rossi School of Makeup in London. They just so happened to be starting their next cycle a few weeks later and they had a number of spaces left.

For eight weeks I did makeup everyday and fell completely in love with it.

As of 2019, I am firmly set on building my career as a makeup artist. With my brushes and kit I hope to not only improve my own skills and continue to learn and grow, but also

• Powder your face: A compact pressed powder is your best friend – one that you can slip into your bag and reapply throughout the day. If you want a glowy finish on your skin try Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder – the powder is extremely finely milled so will lock in product without taking glow away. If you have very oily skin consider using blotting papers as this won’t clog up your pores.

• Concealer: If you want coverage on your face but find your foundation melts, consider using a light layer of concealer on the face where you need coverage. This effect is best achieved with a small dense fluffy blending brush such as the Real Techniques 300 Deluxe Crease Brush.

Maddie Ng MUA

maddieformakeup.com Instagram: @maddiesyng

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food

Food news Green light for Amber reopening

Two Michelin-starred restaurant, Amber, located within The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong will reopen this month following a three-month closure due to renovations.

What to expect has been kept under wraps, however lucky guests got an early taste of the eight-course menu at the ‘Feast for the Future’ event which was held on the closing night.

During the closure, Culinary Director Richard

New York City’s hottest new restaurant heads to Hong Kong

Ekkebus and his team hosted a series of pop-ups across Europe, North Africa and Asia, including Amsterdam, Marrakech and Taipei.

The team visited local markets, discussed best practices, found inspiration in new ingredients and broadened their exposure to new flavours, innovative cooking techniques and global culinary trends. Keep an eye out on their website for the opening date. amberhongkong.com

Star chefs cook up for charity

Heep Hong Society is hosting its 26th Great Chefs of Hong Kong on May 6, featuring over 50 participating restaurants and hotels. Guests can taste over 100 signature dishes from Hong Kong’s top dining destinations including Grand Hyatt’s Grand Café, InterContinental’s Rech

by Alain Ducasse, Island Shangri-La’s Summer

Palace and more. Tickets are now available starting from $880 per guest. All proceeds will go towards supporting Heep Hong Society’s charity initiatives to provide holistic support to children with special needs. Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. heephong. org/greatchefs

Innovative one-Michelin-starred restaurant Atomix has had critics talking since its opening in New York early this year and now it’s making its way to Hong Kong. Chef Vicky Lau of Tate Dining Room will be hosting a highly anticipated collaboration dinner with chef Junghyun Park of Atomix this month on May 28 and 29. Guests can expect an eight-course dinner menu where ChineseFrench fine dining meets one-Michelin-starred Korean haute cuisine. $1,980+10% per guest, with the option of wine or cocktail pairing at an additional $600. To book, call Tate Dining Room on 2555 2172. expat-parent.com 57

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Time for tea

food

Pinkies up! Apple Lee rounds up the best places to treat your mum to afternoon tea this Mother’s Day.

Madame Fu The beautiful colonial restaurant seamlessly mixes east with west in its pink, insta-friendly ‘Pearl Room’.

The high tea set comes on a traditional stand featuring barbecued pork puffs, roasted duck quiche, a glorious chocolate tartlet sprinkled with gold, and of course, warm scones with cream and berry jam. This is the perfect setting to enjoy a bit of Hong Kong history along with one of the territory’s most popular afternoon foodie pastimes. $250 for one and $450 for two.

3/F, Barrack Block, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central. madamefu.com.hk

MOTHER’S DAY IS

MAY 12

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food

The Mira

InterContinental Hong Kong InterContinental is partnering with luxury botanical skincare brand Chantecaille for a special Rose de Mai afternoon tea this May and June. The charming three-tiered set is crafted with refreshing springtime ingredients

and punctuated with floral notes. Guests will receive two complementary sets of Chantecaille Rose de Mai Signature Skincare Discovery Kits, valued at $1,140 and available while stock lasts. $688 for two. 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. intercontinental.com

Got a mum who is a savvy fashionista or a strong advocate of retail therapy? This Mother’s Day, make a date for The Mira’s shopping-themed afternoon tea. From this month through June, the snazzy hotel lobby café is serving its afternoon tea set on a three-tiered stand modelled after a handbag. Equally stylish as the presentation, the food is wildly imaginative with umeshu jelly, scones accompanied by homemade watermelon jam and mini buns that are loaded with truffled scrambled eggs. $428 for two plus an additional $120 for a glass of champagne. COCO, G/F, The Mira Hong Kong, Mira Place, 118-130 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. themirahotel.com

Le Méridien Cyberport Jason Licker, winner of Iron Chef Thailand 2014, is taking over Le Méridien Cyberport’s Prompt from May 6 to 12. The creative pastry chef will be presenting a fusion afternoon tea that bursts with vibrant flavours of Asia. Highlights include an apple miso sablé, which brings a touch of savoury to the sweet delicacy, and a mango passion fruit cake inspired by the tangy flavours of tropical southeast Asian fruits. $398 for two.

Prompt, Le Méridien Cyberport, 100 Cyberport Road, Cyberport. lemeridiencyberport.com

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food

SHÉ Relax and indulge in an afternoon tea overlooking Victoria Harbour at this patio restaurant, tucked inside Lane Crawford at ifc Mall. The waterfront views are not the only drawcard at this postcard pretty

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joint. Taking a departure from the usual straight-laced offerings of hot scones and breakfast tea, SHÉ is serving contemporary Chinese dim sum treats like rose gold shrimp dumplings, truffle balls stuffed with minced meat and mushrooms and classic

Hong Kong favourites like egg tarts. $288 for two on weekdays and $328 for two on weekends and public holidays. Portion A of Shop 3025-3026 & 3031-3066, Level 3, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central. gaiagroup.com.hk

food The Peninsula Between the soaring ceilings, classical music, white-gloved service and silver teapots, everything about The Peninsula Lobby oozes old-world British elegance.

Sticking to tradition, the tea set promises three tiers of finger sandwiches, homemade pastries and buttery scones - complete with homemade jam and fluffy clotted cream.

Make sure to get there at least 30 minutes before 2pm to avoid disappointment. $388 for one and $699 for two. Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. peninsula.com

FINDS Take your mum on a culinary adventure across the Nordics at FINDS, the only Nordic fine dining establishment in Hong Kong. The seafood restaurant is offering an afternoon tea set with ten savoury and sweet dishes from Finland, Iceland, Norway, Denmark and Sweden. Enjoy a range of game meats, crustaceans and specialty pastries, best accompanied by a house blend of 62% dark hot chocolate. $356 for two. 39 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. finds.com.hk

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book review

Hong Kong mums launch foodie book series for kids Nicole Cooley talks dim sum and wonton noodles with author Cheryl Yau Chepusova

The Author

The Illustrator

Cheryl Chepusova, Author (left) and Isabel Foo, Illustrator (right)

So what’s the story about?

Big Cities Little Foodies is an illustrated board book series that taps into the foodie zeitgeist to introduce children to world cultures. While travel-centered children’s books typically include New York, Paris, London, and San Francisco, Big Cities Little Foodies will focus on metropolitan destinations in Asia, through the lens of local food. Our first book takes readers to Hong Kong, where they learn to count different foods such as dim sum, pineapple buns, and claypot rice.

Where did the inspiration come from?

It started with the idea of collaborating with Isabel Foo, an illustrator, on a one-off picture book, as a first birthday gift to our children,

Nolan and Adeline, who were born one day apart. As designers, we both already loved printed books and were building our children’s picture book libraries from favourite authors and illustrators. We wanted to create our own book that could teach them about something dear to us: a city we’ve both loved and lived in. The theme of travel and food followed naturally, as it was a shared interest and is a huge part of teaching about every culture and heritage.

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I live with my husband and daughter in the Bay Area right now and work in the tech industry as a product designer. In the past, I’ve also been a graphic designer who has worked on more traditional print projects, as well as a writer for design and architecture A sneak peek inside

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book review publications. I’ve moved around a lot as my work has taken me from city to city, but I still very much think of Hong Kong as where my roots lie. I grew up there until I was an adult so I know the city well, and we still visit regularly with my daughter to see our family and friends.

What’s your favourite Hong Kong food?

I always crave a good cup of hot Hong Kong-style milk tea and a soft egg sandwich.

Cha chan tengs know how to make these ordinary menu items so comforting and outstanding. I’m also always down for noodles – my favourite is squid balls and rice noodles in seaweed soup.

What’s been your favourite part of writing and publishing the book?

Seeing this idea come to life and all the progress we’ve made over the past year is really exciting. By self publishing, we’ve been able to shape every aspect and design this entirely the way we’ve wanted, so the process has been both challenging and exhilarating. The end product is something

that we are proud to share with our children as they explore our Hong Kong heritage and our love for travel, reading, and food.

The next stop for us will be Tokyo, Japan.

It’s already a work in progress.

Tell us more about the illustrations? How did you start working with Isabel Foo?

The board book is available for purchase exclusively at bigcitieslittlefoodies.com right now. We’re hoping to get into some local Hong Kong bookstores later this month..

Isabel and I both attended the same design program over a decade ago, so we know each other from that. We connected more recently as new mums and shared our experiences from breastfeeding to introducing solids, from everyday developmental milestones to travelling internationally with our babies for the first time. We collaborated on the book together remotely, and this partnership has really become a creative outlet for us, to use the professional skills we already had even before we became mums. The illustrations are so important in a board book for this young age group, and I think Isabel has done an amazing job depicting all the foods described, in a playful way.

Where can we buy the book?

Where will the Big Cities Little Foodies go next?

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big day out

Laid-back Lamma Nigel Griffiths ventures across Lamma Island

L

amma is one of Hong Kong’s bestknown outlying islands, with a rep for superb seafood, pretty beaches and hippies. The last is a little outdated, because while some of the 5,000 residents on the 13 square kilometer island embrace an “alternative lifestyle”, a fast ferry service to Central means it is also home to plenty of professionals seeking a closeknit community and a laid-back, carefree environment.

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For the rest of us, it’s a great place to take a breather from the frantic pace of Hong Kong life.

Located southwest of Hong Kong Island, life on the territory’s third largest island revolves around two relaxed villages – Yung Shue Wan (Banyan Tree Bay) in the north and Sok Kwu Wan (Picnic Bay) in the east. Few people live on the southern part of Lamma as it can only be accessed by hiking or private boat. The south’s biggest beach, Sham Wan,

is an important breeding site for sea turtles.

Catch a ferry from Central or Aberdeen to Yung Shue Wan. From the pier, the fishing harbour of O Tsai lies to the left with the smallest Tin Hau Temple I have seen in Hong Kong. To the right, the main harbour also serves as a typhoon shelter. Head along the harbour side to the main street. As well as various restaurants, from Cantonese seafood to organic vegetarian, there are two bars and the main Tin Hau Temple, built

big day out in 1876 and guarded by peculiar western lions. Apparently, when the temple’s original Chinese-style lions were damaged in 1960, the mason hired to replace them specialised in Western-style stone lions. The result is a fitting motif for this east-meets-west community.

Half way down the street, a well signposted left turn leads to Sok Kwu Wan. The signpost suggests a hiking time of an hour and 20 minutes, but I suggest allowing at least two hours to take in the views.

Follow the footpath through Tai Yuen and Wang Long villages to Hung Shing Yeh Beach. The going is flat and beautiful orange flowers and purple grasses attract butterflies and many species of bird. The golden beach is peaceful during the week, but it gets busy at weekends, with shower and changing facilities and a bar-restaurant in season.

From here the path heads uphill, curling around the headland to give a great view over the beach and beyond to the power station.

The trail is up and down. When the sea appears on the left, the hardest part of the hike is over and it’s downhill the rest of the way. Pass a cement works jutting out to sea, another pavilion overlooking Picnic Bay and

some beehives. At Lo So Shing Village is an impressive graffiti mural painted in 2013

by Hong Kong Smilemakers. Walk through the village to lovely Lo So Shing Beach with barbecue pits, changing facilities and shallow rock pools on the headland for children to explore.

Returning from the barbecue pits, before the LCSD block, stairs ascend and a footpath beckons through green vegetation and past the defunct Lo Shing Village School.

If you did not turn off through the village to the beach but continued straight, it is here that the footpaths meet again. Walk around Picnic Bay past a sandy shoreline with egrets stalking fresh fish and the Kamikaze Caves, dug by the Japanese during the wartime occupation to hide boats filled with explosives to destroy British ships should they come near. Be brave and walk inside: there are no bats or other wildlife, just a stone face at the end.

Soon Sok Kwu Wan’s seafood restaurants appear across the inlet. Cross a bridge past a few houses and pathways leading left and right. The right track heads to a fenced-off pool teeming with wildlife.

There are birds in the trees and frogs call at dusk. As well as a multitude of brown

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big day out Carry on the footpath and past another Tin Hau Temple, built after 1826, and into the strip of restaurants. The only one that doesn’t sell seafood is Lo So Kitchen, which has a vast selection of beers and German-style sausages. From here, take a ferry back to Aberdeen or Central. The path continues on to Mo Tat Wan, which has a pleasant beach fronted by The Bay Mediterranean restaurant.

The Cheun Kee Ferry calls there between Sok Kwu Wan and Aberdeen.

From Sok Kwu Wan or Mo Tat Wan, keen hikers can set out to climb Mount Stenhouse (Shan Tei Tong), Lamma’s highest peak at 353 metres. There are several routes up and down. Be warned: it’s not for the fainthearted.

How to get there • • Tin Hau Temple

tree frogs and Asian common toads, this is where John D. Romer discovered the rare and endangered Romer’s tree frog in 1952.

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Keep your eyes open for a frog 2.5cm-3cm long with has a brown snake-like pattern on its back.

Catch the ferry to Yung Shue Wan from Central Pier No. 4.

The first ferry from Central is at 6.30am, Monday to Saturday, 7.30am on Sundays. The last ferry leaves Yung Shue Wan at 11.30pm.

Visit hkkf.com.hk for full details.

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travel

Travel News FINNAIR INTRODUCES NEW BUSINESS CLASS AMENITIES Finnair has introduced a new range of amenities for business class passengers with longstanding partner, Finnish design house Marimekko and the Swedish natural and organic skincare brand L:A Bruket. The Marimekko amenity kits and eyeshades will

feature different patterns, filled with products from L:A Bruket. Sustainability is key for Finnair; kits have been sized to live on after flights for other uses, the new products are made from recycled plastics and bio-plastics, and an on-demand concept is available for less commonly used items. With these considerations in place, Finnair is aiming to reduce plastic waste by almost 4,500kg per year. finnair.com

SIMPSON YACHT CHARTER AND THE LANDMARK MANDARIN ORIENTAL ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP For a six month period between April and September, Simpson Yacht Charter and The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong have crafted the Connoisseur's Escape Experience. This exclusive adventure combines a luxury hotel stay, priority reservations to newly renovated Michelin starred Amber restaurant and a personalised luxury yacht cruise. Guests can cruise through selected areas of Hong Kong including the iconic Victoria Harbour, Clearwater Bay and Sai Kung, or the Southern Side. Landmark Mandarin Oriental General Manager, Archie Keswick explains, “True luxury is having every detail of your stay tailored to exceed your hopes – and dreams - so we have created a package that encourages guests to bask in unforgettable hospitality.” mandarinoriental.com/landmark

PARISIAN GOURMET FESTIVAL AT THE PARISIAN MACAO The Parisian Macao are hosting a whole range of exciting events and performances to celebrate the sublime French cuisine and wine. Until June 9, guests can experience a true Parisian feel, complete with The Parisian Macao’s magnificent Eiffel Tower, where live entertainment and streetmosphere performers will take place. The vibrant al fresco dining festival will offer a selection of delicious foods such as freshly-shucked oysters, decadent desserts and wine pairing. parisianmacao.com

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travel

Cruising into luxury Cruise virgin Gemma Shaw and her husband discover a dream boat getaway, fit for a king

“

Aren’t cruises for retired people?” My husband asked when I surprised him with our very first cruise for the weekend.

Like him, I’ve spent 35 happy years as a self-confessed cruise virgin. Having watched Titanic several times whilst growing up, the idea of spending a few nights at sea with 4,000 others hasn’t been something I’ve ever contemplated.

However, when I read about the exclusive ‘Palace’ amenities aboard Dream Cruise’s World Dream convinced me otherwise. The Palace is a subsection of World Dream with elevated privileges. Very much like flying business class or booking a club room in a hotel, guests have access to priority areas including private restaurants and bars, a separate pool area, beach club, casino, spa and gym. I must admit, I was sold on the 24-hour personal butler and an all-inclusive 24hour food and drinks package, which includes access to a champagne bar, dedicated Johnnie Walker whiskey bar and Penfold’s wine cave.

On a Friday evening post-work, we made our way to the priority check-in area of Kai Tak Cruise Terminal and are greeted with cocktails

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Captain’s cocktails

travel

Palace Deluxe Suite

and canapés. Off to a good start.

As we are taken to our suite on the tenth floor of the 18-deck ship, I marvel at its sheer scale. The room size rivals that of our Hong Kong apartment, featuring flat screen televisions, marble bathrooms and a huge plush bedroom.

Our butler promptly arrives to introduce himself, shows us how to use the complimentary wi-fi and makes us dinner reservations at one of the eight premium restaurants. He suggests a pre-dinner drink at The Palace bar, access of which is exclusive to Palace guests. Martini in hand, we bid farewell to Hong Kong for the weekend. A four course dinner is served as the sun sets over the Hong Kong skyline.

The following morning, we take a tour of the ship to walk off all the food and drink we’ve consumed. As we delve deeper into the ship, we discover a water park with six slides, cinemas, a gaming area with many types of VR experiences, a Zouk nightclub, a spa, many boutique shops and of course, a large casino.

For parents, the kid’s club offers a very

comprehensive activity programme as well as childcare. The first two hours of which is free.

Childcare, free… when was the last time in Hong Kong you heard those two words in the same sentence?

Somewhat surprisingly, there really is something onboard for everyone. I was tempted by the activity programme which includes daily yoga and Pilates as well as a host of art and dance classes and themedworkshops for adults and children.

Breakfast is served overlooking the ocean at The Palace restaurant. The huge selection caters to both Chinese and Western tastes with eggs, pancakes and waffles made to order. I may have overindulged.

It soon becomes apparent that a large draw for many of the guests is the opportunity to make use of the casinos in international waters.

This plays to our advantages as it means other areas of the ship are quiet.

So not being gamblers, we spend the morning relaxing in a cabana at The Palace private pool and beach club where, except for another couple, we are the only guests.

Meanwhile, our child-bearing friends whom we had bumped into while boarding the night before enjoy a morning of water slides, gaming, kimono dressing and origami workshops.

For lunch, we opt for Japanese and are served sushi and ramen. With an almost overwhelming number of activities and things to do, my husband heads off for an afternoon of VR gaming, whilst I enjoy a few more hours at the beach club soaking up the sunshine Prosecco and book in hand.

I soon learn that most cruises offer guests a chance to mingle with the captain and crew. Our introduction is through pre-dinner cocktails, accompanied by a live pianist. Many of the crew are Norwegian and we chat with them about their eight week rotations out on the South China Sea. We take Saturday evening dinner at the three Hat (Australian version of Michelin star) steakhouse which kicks off with an incredible seafood tower, enough to share between two people, followed by steak, even more seafood and an equally as impressive wine selection.

After eating far too much, we head back expat-parent.com 75

travel somewhat comatose to our suite for a movie and bed.

The following morning and much to my dismay, the Hong Kong skyline resurfaces on the horizon. Still full and not yet ready to return to dry land, we attempt to make the most of our last breakfast before disembarking shortly before 10am. Taxis line the harbour, as do free shuttles which ferry passengers to various MTR stations. We are home by 11am.

This was a weekend I enjoyed far more than I had ever expected to. I wouldn’t replace our more adventurous holidays with a cruise, but for a quick and easy weekend getaway with secluded pool areas, free-flow bubbles and unbelievable food, I am most definitely converted. Helped by the novelty of having a ‘Dream’ butler - one life goal achieved - even if it was for less than 48 hours!

For short getaways, World Dream runs two to five night escapes from Hong Kong to Mainland China, Vietnam, Philippines and Japan. Visit dreamcruiseline.com for more detailed itineraries.

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pork bun in the oven

The Phantom of my pregnancy is here First-time expectant mum Becky Love shares the secret diary of her husband’s phantom pregnancy

I

am writing this column at 2.39am. Why? Because I am 21 weeks pregnant and life is throwing me curve balls right now which frankly, I couldn’t catch anyway because, oh that’s right! My extremities are beginning to swell.

Currently, I am sitting on my couch, unable to sleep because my body feels like lead. The old ‘temple’ over here is in need of restoration as it is overheating, craving cheese toasties and basically refusing to do anything that I ask of it. Intermittently, I am walking over to the mirror to remind myself that yes, my body has changed and although it is in the process of creating a miracle, it is also in the process of morphing into a ‘Shrek-like’ figure that frightens me at least three times a day when I pass my reflection in a shop window. Yeah, you could say I am dealing with some stuff right now.

So, when my husband comes home and complains about ‘a pain in his tummy’, he is not only in for a fight (that he will most certainly lose), but he has also made himself an easy target for this months column.

But wait, maybe I am being a little too hard on him. He does actually suffer from something. It’s called ‘Couvade Syndrome’, otherwise known as a ‘Phantom Pregnancy’.

It is where your other half shows all the signs of being pregnant without carrying an actual baby. That must be so tough for him.

So, rather than fight it, I have been secretly documenting these moments - and I am going to share some of them with you today.

Throughout, I am going to refer to him as The Phantom - like the comic book character, only his superpower is his ability to make me roll my eyes.

think about the part where Chip turns into a teacup without tearing up. “That poor boy!” he wails.

Monday April 8, 6.30am Groggy and tired even after ten hours of sleep, I wake up to get ready for work. The Phantom has the day off, but manages to peek at me over the covers before I leave the house. “I sleep all the time, but I am always so tired.

What’s happening to me?” He is very confused. *Gently, I guide his head back onto the pillow.

“Sleep,” I tell him as I walk towards the door, rolling my eyes.

Wednesday April 10, 7.02am Today I have nothing to wear and surprise, surprise - neither does The Phantom. “Nothing fits” he moans. Welcome to my universe, buddy.

Friday April 12, 8.12pm

Our columnist is a nervous first time mum-to-be whose hobbies have recently shifted from writing and relaxing to snacking, complaining and crying uncontrollably.

Thursday April 4, 6.23am Following six hours of throwing up as I lay in an exhausted heap, The Phantom says, “Do I have a fever? My stomach doesn’t feel right.

I think I have that thing you have.” I’m sorry… that thing? You mean a small fetus sucking the nutrients (and life) out of you? No you bloody don’t.

Tuesday April 2, 8.02pm Sitting on the couch after dinner. My feet are up, and I am rubbing my belly. I look over and The Phantom has his feet up too, rubbing his belly. I wonder if his Calimex burrito kicks as much as mine does?

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Friday April 5, 7.49pm Today, my hormones are mimicking the Disneyland Big Grizzly Roller Coaster. They’re up and down and all around. The Phantom and I switch on Netflix, and both cry during the Beauty and the Beast trailer. The Phantom can’t

There’s nothing in the world that I feel like eating right now. I just want someone to make a decision for me. But alas, The Phantom doesn’t know either. “It’s weird, but lately most food just makes me feel icky” he says. Yes, a full grown adult man used the word ‘icky’.

Saturday April 13, 1.30am I look over at The Phantom who is mirroring the way I am sleeping. On his side with his leg over a pillow to alleviate any knee, back and hip pain.

This time, I actually smile to myself. Man, I love this idiot.

Maybe it’s me who has it all wrong. Reading these entries back I can’t help but feel completely supported, in a weird sort of way.

The Phantom is right there with me, feeling what I’m feeling and making me feel like I’m not totally alone in this. What more could a pregnant woman ask for? Who knew the man who craved “citrus fruit only please” for three whole weeks would turn out to be my real-life superhero.

Now, to just prepare him for labour... *With slight force

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