Sai Kung June 2019

FATHER’S DAY | YAU LEY | JUNKS

HI KI 1 NG 0 TH OU TH Y R E E M A AC R LE !

HO SE

June 2019

SAI KUNG SIZZLES Our guide to the best curRies in town

INTO THE

BLUE

PLAN YOUR ULTIMATE DAY AT SEA

School’s out!

Summer camps for kids

TAKE A HIKE to a SECRET SEAFOOD HOT SPOT

The really useful magazine June 2019 PEOPLE 4 Snapped!

Sai Kung’s social life THE PLANNER 6 Happening in June What’s on this month NEWS 10 What’s going on?

In your backyard CRIME 12 Police blotter Jacky Chan talks crime MUST HAVE THIS MONTH 14 Father’s day gift guide If a pint won’t cut it this time FIVE MINUTES WITH...

17 Kristina Rybaltchenko Jewellery designer and Sai Kung resident LOCAL 19 Cattle awareness How can we protect our resident cows?

COVER STORY 20 Plan the perfect boat party All you need to know about hiring, catering and more DINING

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BIG DAY OUT 34 Delicious delights at Yau Ley Matt Teague hikes to the famous seafood spot TRAVEL 37 Charitable Nepal Mojdeh Kazemi and friends give back to the community GIVEAWAY 39 An un-pho-gettable getaway Win a two-night stay at Fusion Resort Cam Ranh in Vietnam VILLAGE FOCUS 41 Tui Min Hoi A village across the water PETS 42 Ask Dr. Pauline Pet questions answered. Plus Mochi’s musings ZIM CITY

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24

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43 Paul Zimmerman on Running for change GARDENING 47 In the garden What to plant in June VINES IN SAI KUNG 48 Parking abusers get their comeuppance Stephen Vines gives his thoughts

24 Spicy summer The best places to get curry in a hurry! Plus nibbles.

EDUCATION 28 Summer camps special Keep the kids entertained all summer long

28 “SHALL I COMPARE THEE TO A SUMMER’S DAY?” - WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

SAIKUNG.COM | 1

editor’s letter

T

he sun’s out, schools are winding down and there’s hope that Hiram’s Highway won’t be so crowded…(at least for a few months), that can only mean one thing, Hong Kong summer is here!

In the spirit of the season we’ve dedicated this month’s issue to everyone’s favourite summer activity, junk trips! Whether you want to keep it traditional or lux it up a little, we’ve got you covered with our ultimate boat party guide on page 20.

Speaking of the seas, our local contributor Matt Teague paid a visit to the popular seafood spot, Yau Ley for this month’s Big Day Out, read all about how to access the restaurant by foot on page 34.

Don’t forget to take dear old dad out for a pint this month to celebrate Father’s Day on June 16, if you really want to spoil him check out our run down of the best whiskey and gin bars on page 15.

Wishing you a lovely June with lots of junks, beach days and summer shenanigans!

Editorial

Managing editor Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Editor Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Contributing editor Becky Love, becky@hongkongliving.com Editorial assistant Nicole Cooley, ncooley@hongkongliving.com Media assistant Jeramy Lee, jeramy@hongkongliving.com

Design

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

Events

Event executive Ran Chan, ran@hongkongliving.com

Sales & Marketing

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

Operations

Assistant Operations Manager Charles Lau, charles@hongkongliving.com

Digital

Digital Editor Apple Lee, apple@hongkongliving.com

contributors

Publisher

Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com

Thanks to Eric Ho Stephen Vines

Holly Annie Black Dr. Pauline

Carmel Hutchison Anna May Groshong

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

Matt Teague

Moj Kazemi

Journalist, broadcaster and our monthly backpage columnist gives his opinion on happenings around Sai Kung.

A Sai Kung resident and avid explorer, hiked to the popular seafood spot Yau Ley for this month’s Big Day Out on page 34.

Founder of Tala’s Hair and Beauty Boutique, ventured to Nepal for a charity trip with First Step Himalaya. Read all about it on page 37.

Where is your favourite place to dine in Sai Kung?

Where is your favourite place to dine in Sai Kung?

For Chinese food I like to go to Sing Kee, but for more casual dining, I prefer Jaspas.

AJ’s until their tragic closure.. but TAKKA has taken place affordable and fresh!

Where is your favourite place to dine in Sai Kung?

My favorite place to eat in Sai Kung at the moment is Piccolos!

saikung.com

talk@hongkongliving.com

@saikungmag

facebook.com/SaiKungMagazine

HONG KONG hongkongliving.com

Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Magazine is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd.This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Hong Kong Living Ltd 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 in any way, part or format without written permission from the publisher.

Want to write for Sai Kung Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 2 | SAIKUNG.COM

Photo credit: M Yachts

Stephen Vines

SAIKUNG.COM | 3

people Snaps from Sai Kung

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say cheese Hong Kong Living Awards 2019 Charity Lunch

Thanks to: Anna May Groshong, Nicole Cooley, Jeremy Lee

Tin Hau Festival

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planner

JUN 8

Hong Kong Living’s Pet Carnival Hong Kong Living are hosting their very first pet carnival at Dog Dog Come Wonderland. Bring your furry friends and get ready to make a splash at the doggy pool. Professional pet photographers will be on hand to capture the action. Meet a potential new family member at the pet adoption pop-up, take a first aid workshop and try your hand at pet yoga! All ticket proceeds will go towards supporting Catherine’s Puppies and LAP (Lifelong Animal Protection Charity). 12noon-5pm. Standard tickets, $20, VIP tickets including goodie bag, $60. Dog Dog Come Wonderland, 6 Tseng Lan Shue, Clear Water Bay. hongkongliving.com/shop

UNTIL JUN 30

JUN 2

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

Join in the fun and bag some local delights at this month’s Sunday Market. 12noon-5pm.

Free. Momentai, Kiosk 1, Sai Kung Waterfront, Wai Man Road, Sai Kung. momentai-la.com

Le French May Arts Festival

JUN 1, 2, 8 & 9

Men In Black Binge-Watching Weekend Re-watch the previous films Men In Black I, II, and III before the latest release Men In Black: International hits the big screens on June 13.

MIB Cocktails and snacks available. 4pm onwards. Room One-Sports Bar, G/F Lobby, The Mira Hong Kong, 118-130 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. themirahotel.com

Sunday Market

JUN 1-2

Hong Kong Dance Company: “Red Poppies” Based on award-winning novel Red Poppies by author Mao Dun, the Hong Kong Dance Company presents a feast of Tibetan folk dance and music. Sat 7.45pm & Sun 3pm.

Tickets from $160. Sha Tin Town Hall, 1 Yuen Wo Rd, Sha Tin. urbtix.hk

JUN 4

Prestige Summer Lifestyle & Gift Fair Stock up on gourmet foods, stunning

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happening in June jewellery, stylish swimwear, home decor and more. 10am-7pm. Free admission.

Grand Ballroom, Conrad Hong Kong, 88 Queensway, Admiralty. prestigefairs.hk

JUN 4

Sophie Zelmani Sunrise Tour Swedish singer-songwriter Sophie Zelmani comes to Hong Kong as part of her latest tour. 8.15pm. $650 for standing tickets.

Kowloonbay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, 1 Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay. cityline.com

JUN 11 - 15

JUN 12

Join musical theatre workshops lead by resident directors of Broadway hits such as The Sound of Music, EVITA, CATS and Matilda. Spaces available for ages six years and above. All levels of experience welcome.

Visit the website to book. ISTA is proudly hosted by Hong Kong Academy. Classes from $490 to $790. 33 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung. ista-hongkong.com/musicaltheatre-workshops

Join local children’s author and hairdresser, Jacquiline Hamilton as she celebrates her book being stocked at Bookazine. A fun-filled event with a portion of proceeds going to Catherine’s Puppies. 3-5pm. Aphrodite Hair and Makeup Salon, 1/F, 1 Wan King Path, Sai Kung.

ISTA Musical Theatre Workshops

JUN 4-25

My Quest - Group Coaching A four week coaching experience from Dr. Katie Larson exploring a Hero’s Journey, and how to bring more adventure and purpose to daily-life. 6-7pm. The Hive, 5 Tai Mong Tsai Road. growthquests.com

JUN 6-9

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Based on the picture book by Eric Carle, 75 loveable puppets celebrate the book’s 50th anniversary. For children aged two and above. Times vary. Tickets from $195.

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

Sai Kung Police officer book launch

JUN 13-16

Evolution Asia Yoga Conference Bringing together yoga masters, teachers and students to inspire the ever-growing

Professor Brian Cox UNIVERSAL World Tour 2019 British Professor Brian Cox, OBE explains the comings and goings of our Universe. 7.30pm. Tickets from $550. Star Hall, Kowloonbay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, 1 Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay. premier.hkticketing.com

JUN 5

JUN 8

Ginsanity Keep your gin up! The Hong Kong’s Gin Festival is happening! On offer are over 70 different craft gins and different tonics to celebrate World Gin Day! 2-10pm. Free. PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central. pmq.org.hk

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planner JUN 22

community of yogis. Expect workshops, exhibitions, classes and more. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. asiayogaconference.com

Mount Kelly Admissions Day Join this special admissions event where interviews and assessments will be conducted on site. Expect info sessions, a campus tour, sample classes and much more. 9.30-12.30pm. Free. To register, email admissions@mountkelly.edu.hk or call 2157 9557. mountkelly.edu.hk

JUN 14

‘Iliza in Asia’ Live Nation have announced a second show, after their first show sold out. Don’t miss stand-up comedian Iliza Shlesinger wellknown for her four Netflix specials. 8pm.

Tickets from $488. KITEC G/F, Music Zone @ E-max, 1 Trademark Drive, Kowloon Bay. livenation.hk

for adults and $250 for children. Bike rentals available. justicecentre.org.hk

JUN 19

Nothing But Thieves Alt-rock band Nothing But Thieves from Essex come to Hong Kong to promote their debut album Under My Skin. Starts 8pm.

Tickets from $250. Kowloonbay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, 1 Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay. nbthieves.com

JUN 28-29

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Based on the works of C. S. Lewis, join Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy on their icy adventure into Narnia. 7.30pm on Friday and 2.30pm & 7.30pm on Saturday. Tickets from $280. McAulay Studio, Hong Kong Arts Centre, 2 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. ticketflap.com

JUN 14

90s Got Balls Head back to the 90’s for this totally rad nostalgia evening with games, free-flow drinks and 90’s tunes. 7.30pm. $425. Club One The Grand Stage, 2/F Western Market, 323 Des Voeux Road, Sheung Wan. app.eventxtra.link

JUN 16

Father’s Day Celebrate the main man in your life. See page 14 for gift ideas!

JUN 16

Ride for Justice 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 from Lai Chi Kok to Jordan. Proceeds raised go to Justice Centre Hong Kong, an NGO which provides free legal and psychosocial assistance to Hong Kong’s most vulnerable forced migrants. 8.30am. Entrance is $500

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Dragon Boat (Tuen Ng) Festival Another public holiday! Cheer on the paddlers down at Sai Kung’s waterfront!

JUN 7

book now

BOOK NOW JUL 11

OCT 26

The United States DEA Agent Steve Murphy and Javier Pena tell the true story about Pablo Escobar, the disputed “king of cocaine” and the inspiration of the NETFLIX hit drama Narcos. 8pm. Tickets from $488.

KITEC, Music Zone @ E-max, 1 Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay. livenation.hk

This touring pop-up Lego playground will be coming to Hong Kong with over one million blocks featuring sculptures and ball pits. As part of the nostalgia trip, you can also build your own creations too whilst sipping on cocktails and eating Legoinspired burgers. Further details TBC. thebrickbars.com/asia

Narcos Live: The Real DEA Agents Steve Murphy and Javier Pena

Brick Bar

featuring soundtracks from blockbusters including The Lion King, Gladiator, and Interstellar. 8pm. Tickets from $588. Hall 5BC, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. hkticketing.com

SEPT 26 Photo Credit: Brick Bar Facebook

Hans Zimmer Live On Tour Award-winning German composer Hans Zimmer takes fans on a musical journey

FROM DEC 18

“The Lion King Musical” This is a one-of-a-kind production not to be missed! In its 20th year, the impressive staging, costumes and choreography bring Disney’s The Lion King to life.

Tickets from $399. AsiaWorld-Expo Arena, Airport Expo Blvd, Chek Lap Kok. lionkinginternational.com

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

SAIKUNG.COM | 9

news

Survey calls for more indoor play options in Sai Kung

Outward Bound participants complete sail challenge to Taiwan The latest challenge from Outward Bound Hong Kong saw 16 participants set sail on the Spirit of Outward Bound to Taiwan. The group departed on March 27 and returned to Hong Kong on April 6. One of the participants, Marc McAlister described his journey: “The first and last day we experienced strong winds and rain which made things challenging, especially sailing at night, in the darkness. It’s surprising how quickly weather conditions change, it got

Sai Kung mums Hannah McLeod, Katie Larson and Annabelle Baker are on a mission to create or find more affordable indoor soft play options around the town. After sharing a survey on local Facebook group Sai Kung Mummies in May, over 98% of responders said they wanted more indoor play options for their children. Hannah McLeod believes, “Other locations in Hong Kong offer great government or privately run indoor play areas that bring the community together and we believe there is a great opportunity to do the same here in Sai Kung.” After conducting the survey these local mums hope this kick starts some business opportunities for indoor play facilities. Hannah urges resident parents, “If you haven’t already, please give us your feedback by filling in the survey which you can find on the Sai Kung Mummies Facebook page.” Facebook: Sai Kung Mummies

cold and wet very quickly. It was surreal that we weren’t able to see land for days but at night the bioluminescence in the water were incredibly beautiful.” He adds, “It was a great opportunity to meet new people from different backgrounds of all ages and walks of life. We worked as a team to operate the boat and evolve during the course of the programme.”

For more on Outward Bound Challenges, visit outwardbound.org.hk

Incense tree infrared system trail is a success Between the months of October 2018 and April 2019, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) together with the support of the police, have trialled and successfully implemented an infrared system to protect incense trees. The infrared devices have been installed on trees at strategic locations around Che Keng Tuk, Hing King Shek and Mok Tse Che. The devices sense heat motion, triggering instant pictures every six seconds that are transmitted to a control room which is manned by security guards 24 hours a day. If the guards spot a human in the picture, they immediately call the police.

During this trial 30% of triggers were genuine and rural police were able to respond quickly to deter criminals. Since the devices have been installed, Sai Kung police have seen a significant drop in cases.

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2019 Reader’s Choice Awards voting opens June 10

Vote for your favourite restaura nts, shops and more around the town in our 2019 Readers Choice Awards. Voting opens on June 10 and the winners will be announced in our August issue. Vote online at saikung .com for a chance to win great prizes!

in your backyard

Grocery startup Honestbee stops all food delivery services Last month, Honestbee announced that they would be ceasing food delivery services and grocery services as part of an ongoing strategic review. The company has reportedly laid off 10 percent of its workforce, owes suppliers money and has been delaying their payroll. However Honestbee has refused to address these allegations in a public statement. Members of the Geo Expat forums have not taken well to the news, with member ‘merchatms’ saying, “Aww man this sucks! I use them a lot” and ‘UK/HK Boy’ stating, “I always thought Hong Kong would be too convenient for them to survive in… but then I thought the same about Deliveroo and Uber too.”

Beauty giant Sephora plans to open eight stores in Hong Kong Following a ten-year absence from Hong Kong, global cosmetics chain Sephora plans to open a total of eight stores throughout Hong Kong, with the first opening in August this year. Inside Retail Hong Kong has reported that one of the stores is set to be a 4,200 square foot store located in IFC Mall, with another at Windsor House in Causeway Bay. The last Sephora store traded for just two years in Mong Kok, with retail commentators claiming that the store failed due to location, lacklustre marketing and high rental prices. sephora.hk

Voter registration deadline July 2 In order to have your vote on local issues and changes, you must register by July 2.

All permanent residents above the age of 18 are eligible to register to vote. You can download the form online or register at voterregistration.gov.hk

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on patrol

Reports from Sai Kung Police Senior Inspector Jacky Chan reports on recent cases in Sai Kung Lost and found A male aged 57 was reported missing by his family on April 30. Local police spent three days searching the town centre, checked travel systems, local hospitals and prisons with no success. On May 3, the man called his family and the police informing them that he would return home after due consideration. There are no suspicious circumstances around his disappearance and the man is reported to be a habitual gambler with years of medical history including depression. The family are currently awaiting his return.

Hilltop hopping Wibbly wobbly At 8am on April 20, a 32-year-old man lost his balance and fell off his motorbike close to Cheng Chek Chee Secondary School.

He sustained minor injuries and was taken to Tseung Kwan O Hospital, where he is recovering well.

Please hold the handrail On May 13, a 51-year-old male bus driver braked suddenly while driving along Fuk Man Road, causing a passenger to fall. The passenger sustained injuries to their left foot and was taken to Tseung Kwan O Hospital for observations. No other vehicles were involved in the accident.

sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. No further medical treatment was required.

On the afternoon of May 3, a 57-year-old British man was airlifted to North Lantau Hospital from the hilltop of Pak Tam Chung. He had fallen while hiking and injured his left leg.

Stop, look, listen, think

Who’s card is it anyway?

At 11am on May 13, an 11-year-old pedestrian was crossing Tai Mong Tsai Road when she collided with a private car which was being driven by a 38-year-old male. The girl sustained injuries to both legs but was otherwise unharmed. Police have been liaising with the traffic department regarding speed measures and road signals and they remind drivers to slow down.

On May 1, a 28-year-old male reported a transaction made on a Citibank visa card under his name. He wasn’t aware of the card until he received a bill for $6,000 from the bank for a transaction made in July 2018. The case is under investigation.

Dangerous drugs Stranger danger Two local men with no previous connection to each other, got into a dispute on April 19. In the heat of the moment, the 52-year-old male pushed into the 58-year-old male, causing him to lose balance and trip over. Police arrested the 52-year-old man, while the other man was taken to hospital for observation. The case is still under investigation.

More bike trouble On the morning of May 11, another man lost balance and fell from his bicycle near Pak Tam Chung Holiday Camp. The 47-year-old

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At 10pm on April 16, a Filipino man aged 36 was arrested for possession of dangerous drugs. He had been stopped and searched by the Emergency Unit on Wai Man Road and was found with 0.3g of suspected drugs. The man is currently out on police bail.

Alipay too much?

Whilst browsing Facebook on May 3, a 23-yearold woman saw an advert for old camera films.

After transferring $1,100 for the films via Alipay, the seller disappeared without a trace. The case is still under investigation.

For more information, contact Sai Kung Police Station, 1 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 3661 1630

must have this month

Magnetic Dartboard $199.90 from Toys “R” Us toysrus.com.hk

Father’s Day gifts for the hero in your life

Ferrari Watch Gift Set $1,988 with free Ferrari Power Bank (until July 1) facebook.com/designoftimeHK

Essenza Plus in Limousine Black $1,788 from Nespresso nespresso.com/hk/en Klutz Gumball Machine $250 from Bookazine bookazine.com.hk

Hickinbotham Brooks Road Shiraz 2016 $688 from Jackson Family Wines watsonswine.com

Lime Green Folding Bike $10,210 from Brompton brompton.com

Solo Wine Box $1,250 from TREE tree.com.hk

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daddy cool Tim Cook: The Genius Who Took Apple to the Next Level by Leander Kahney $180 from Bookazine bookazine.com.hk

My Daddy and Me by Roger Hargreaves $96 from Bookazine bookazine.com.hk

Men’s Swim Shorts $750 from DEBAYN debayn.com

Treat your dad to his favourite tipple at these whisky and gin bars

Sonos Beam: The smart soundbar for your TV $3,899 from Sonos sonos.com

• Butler Originally opened as a cocktail den, this bar has expanded to include a whisky bar with an extensive collection of rare single malts and premium whiskies. butler-gr.com • Nocturne Stocks more than 150 different whiskies, ranging from single malts from the Scottish Highlands to drams from Japan, Taiwan and India. nocturnehk.com

Alpha Bravo London Roll Top Backpack in Algae $4,590 from TUMI tumi-hk.com

19 Degree Aluminum International Carry-On in Gecko $8,300 from TUMI tumi-hk.com

• Tiffany’s New York Bar Travel back in time to the glamourous world of 1920’s Manhattan with gorgeous interiors and live jazz performances. facebook.com/TiffanysNewYorkBar

• Dr Fern’s Gin Parlour Hidden behind a mock physician’s door, this beautiful speakeasy prescribes some of the best gins in the world. mingfathouse.com • John Anthony Offers more than 400 types of gin and highlights those from distilleries that are socially and environmentally responsible. johnanthony.hk • Origin True to Lai’s brand of multisensory mixology, the cocktails combine exceptional execution with a large splash of creativity. originbar.hk

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five minutes with

Kristina’s top tips for those planning a proposal How to get a great fit Take any of your partner’s rings and try them on your own hand. Your smallest finger usually works best.

Remember where the ring comes up to, this will help the jeweller get a better idea of size.

Simply does it You can’t go wrong with something elegant and simple, plus bear in mind the ring will need to work well with other pieces of jewellery and outfits.

It’s all white A diamond as white as possible and preferably certified will be a sure hit.

challenging but also incredibly rewarding.

We hope to be designing jewellery here for many years to come.

In Asia, it’s all about the size of your stone, while in Europe people are more interested in who designed the piece.

Five minutes with

Kristina Rybaltchenko Nicole Slater talks rings and perfect proposals with the jewellery designer My husband proposed to me in Mongkok. He surprised me with an amazing bouquet of red roses and a simple platinum ring with a natural yellow sapphire.

We couldn’t afford diamonds at the time. My ring has been altered many times since, but I will always keep the tiny yellow sapphire with me, no matter what.

I was born in Scandinavia, but I grew up

in Antwerp, Belgium’s fashion capital and studied at Antwerp University.

I went to China after my master’s degree but I always dreamt of coming to Hong Kong, so when I was offered a position at a diamond company here, it was an easy yes!

Most jewellery pieces take around a week to complete, but more detailed pieces can take much longer.

I designed wedding rings for my husband and I. They are platinum and mine has diamonds on the outside and my husband’s on the inside.

Our first flat in Hong Kong was 17 floors up. When I designed our wedding rings I added 18 diamonds, one for each floor, plus one diamond for luck!

Fancy shapes are very trendy at the moment. A particularly popular design this year is an 18 karat rose gold ring with a fancy shaped diamond, such as a heart or an oval. rybaltchenko.com

I celebrate my company’s 10th anniversary in Hong Kong this year!

Running a business in Hong Kong is

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local

Slow down for the cows!

Drivers must be more aware following the recent deaths of two local cows.

Nicole Cooley reports

O

n April 8, local residents were saddened to hear of the death of our beloved Mango, a wellknown local bull who was struck by a BMW along Tai Mong Tsai Road.

Less than a month later on April 30, we witnessed another death, this time a calf at Pak Tam Au - this incident was a hitand-run by a green taxi.

These recent and unfortunate deaths have strengthened calls for drivers to slow down, particularly around Sai Sha Road and Tai Mong Tsai Road area. Local police have been working with NGOs and voluntary organisations, such as Sai Kung Cattle’s Angel (SKCA) and Sai Kung Buffalo Watch (SKBW) for a number of years with the aim of increasing awareness of animals in the area.

AFCD recommend the following: • Do observe, stay calm, drive slowly, keep a distance and control your pet • Don’t feed, disturb, approach or be noisy around wild animals

Karina O’Carroll a long term member of the SKBW, states, “Since 2009, Friends of Sai Kung, Sai Kung Buffalo Watch have been petitioning the relevant Government departments for speed reduction measures on Sai Sha Road and Tai Mong Tsai Road.”

She goes on to add, “It’s no secret that the roads are frequently used as raceways overnight. Drivers familiar with the road are often suspected to be driving above the speed limit of 50km/hr and these are often the vehicles that end up hitting the feral cattle and other wildlife.”

Recently, the groups met with officers from Sai Kung Police Division and Kowloon East Traffic Division. There was the overriding consensus that more enforcement is needed and indeed some action has been taken in the form of more speed limit signs along Tai Mong Tsai Road.

Feral cattle are an integral part of our Sai Kung community and our rich history, having resided there long before the town was developed. Latest reports from the Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation

Who to call?

If you see an animal which appears to be injured, sick or trapped, you can call: Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD): 1823 Sai Kung Buffalo Watch: 24-hour hotline 9781 4703 / 6531 8215 / 6773 9907

Department (AFCD) show that there are around 1,110 brown cattle in Hong Kong, many of these are located in Sai Kung.

Every summer, these cattle will migrate around Sai Kung in search of the best grazing spots.

Karina believes, “They are as much residents of the area as you and I are.

However, with continued development of the region at a rampant rate, the feral cattle and other wildlife are being squeezed into smaller and smaller areas.

Feral cattle will remain in Sai Kung and may at times be on the roads and drivers need to drive aware.”

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cover story cover story

ALL ABOARD M Yachts

COMES WITH

This boating experience is rooted A CREW in luxury, with concierge teams crafting personalised itineraries unique to your taste. The majestically stylish and sleek 20-metre long Peninsula Yacht can accommodate for up to 20 guests, with a Bose music sound system and five crew members on board. Committed to excellence and quality, watersports can be provided upon request for the ultimate experience. myachts.life

Hong Kong Yachting

WHAT TO BRING ON BOARD: • • • • • •

Sunscreen Sunglasses Hat Swimwear Flipflops Towels

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FOR THE

Famous for their Western-style ADVENTUROUS cruisers Jungle Jane and Tarzan, Hong Kong Yachting offers large decks, 20-foot wide swimming platforms, inflatable slides and a free-flow bar. Select the Raft Up Boat Party package, for a real party on the water, which connects three boats, Jungle Jane, Tarzan and Serpent, fitting up to 145 guests. Jungle Jane starts at $15,000 and Tarzan starts at $27,000 per day. hongkongyachting.com

• • • •

Water Motion sickness pills Camera (Waterproof) Spare hair ties

Did we mention, SUNSCREEN?

M Yachts

Holly Annie Black plans perfect summer days out on Hong Kong’s fabulous blue seas

hk7s junks Hong Kong Junks

KEEP IT

For a true Hong Kong junk CLASSIC experience, the boats hold up to 40 guests and travel to destinations including Southside and the New Territories.

Tunes are provided via the integrated Bose music sound system or you can opt for a DJ on the decks for an extra $5,000. Free-flow drinks and catering packages are available.

For the boat only package, pick up from Aberdeen costs $8,000 and $10,000 from Central or TST. hongkongjunks.com.hk

Lazing around on Lazy Days

Lazy Days

SPA AT

Cruise in style on one of the five SEA sleek modern cruisers and a luxury junk, equipped with giant inflatable slides, island loungers and floating platforms.

Guests can customise their experience by adding spa treatments and massages. Little ones are also catered for with infant paddling pools and bumper mats on board. Lazy Days have recently partnered with Plastic Free HK to help clean up Hong Kong’s scenery. Boatonly hire starts at $14,000 for a maximum of 32 guests. lazydays.com.hk Join the party at Hong Kong Yachting

Luxury abroad on Michelangelo

Breakaway Company

BEST FOR

Only lasting four hours, this junk BIRTHDAYS is perfect if you’re planning a kid’s birthday party or playdate with friends! With inflatable toys and a pool, life jackets and kayaks are supplied on request; the little ones will be endlessly entertained.

Fixed rate packages start at $12,450 for 15 people, each additional adult costs $830 and children cost $450. Packages include childfriendly catering options, and for the adults, five bottles of wine or sparkling wine plus free-flow soft drinks. breakawayhk.com

Michelangelo

STAY

The classic 80-foot yacht holds up OVERNIGHT to 59 passengers and measures 4,000-square-foot over three decks.

Captain, A On sails seven scenic routes, including to Sai Kung and Lamma Island.

Guests can customise their trip by selecting specific islands to visit and a preferred length of stay, with day trips ranging from four to eight hours and overnight stays on offer. Extras such as a private chef, onboard DJ and a jazz band are also available upon request. Hire starts at $32,000. michelangelocruises.com

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cover cover story story

WHERE TO ANCHOR? Nam Fung Wan

New Territories Tai Long Wan

Tai Long Wan

Ninepin group (Kwo Chau Islands) Repulse Bay Cheung Chau

South Bay Sok Kwu Wan

Po Toi Island

OUTLYING ISLANDS

The cluster of 29 islands has an expansive view out to sea with endless cliffs and interesting rock shapes to admire from out at sea.

Sok Kwu Wan, Lamma Island Located on the east coast of Lamma Island, Sok Kwu Wan is renowned for its seafood restaurants and quirky shops.

fabulous views, it’s easy to see why so many choose to dock in Repulse Bay for the day.

Cheung Chau A popular retreat for windsurfers, famously filled with an abundance of seafood along the port and a village lifestyle away from the busy city.

SOUTHSIDE Repulse Bay The most popular beach in Hong Kong, take a swim in the calm waters and admire the

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South Bay A smooth ride from Aberdeen harbour, this is a more secluded and peaceful bay, located just a short walk away from Repulse Bay and otherwise unreachable by public transport.

Po Toi Island A long-time favourite location for junk lovers, located approximately 30 minutes from Stanley and a perfect location to take a dip in the sheltered main cove.

NEW TERRITORIES Ninepin group (Kwo Chau Islands)

Tai Long Wan Located within Sai Kung Country Park, this is one of the most beautifully kept and untouched beaches in Hong Kong. The clear waters and white sands make this an ideal location to dock at for the day.

Nam Fung Wan (Millionaire’s Beach) In Sai Kung Country Park, this popular destination is perfect for snorkelling in the freshwater lagoons and hidden coves.

junks hk7s

CATERING SERVICES Mama Malouf Lebanese restaurant Mama Malouf will add a little spice to your day in the sun with range of junk catering packages. The Light Lunch package is $170 per person and includes breads, a range of dips and wraps.

Their larger Let’s Feast package includes beef kaftas, skewers and much more, from $300 per person. 93 Catchick Street, Kennedy Town. mamamalouf.hk

Bread & Beast Add some traditional Hong Kong flavours to your day at sea with Bread & Beast’s artisanal sandwich collection.

The restaurant has three different junk sets, the smallest set is the Chill Beast which features one main for each person and four sharing plates for $150 per person. G/F, 3 Swatow Street, Wan Chai. breadandbeasthk.com

Invisible Kitchen For a gourmet experience, Invisible Kitchen uses high quality ingredients to produce a range of canapes and sharing plates. Their junk catering packages start from $200 per person for their essentials set which includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian sandwiches, pasta salad, two salads and two desserts. Unit 08, 24th Floor Honour Industrial Building 6 Sun Yip Street, Siu Sai Wan. invisiblekitchen.com

six quesadillas and burritos for $2,670. G/F, 21 D’Aguilar Street, Lan Kwai Fong. cali-mex.com

Koh Thai Koh Thai goes above and beyond to serve deliciously authentic Thai food. The restaurant has its own fleet of boats that provide one of the best services on the sea.

Enjoy an impressive, colourful Thai buffet featuring seven pre-chosen dishes including salads, curries and seafood dishes. This junk has one of the best deals in the city costing just $499 per person for boat hire, catering and free-flow drinks. G/F, 38 Shelley Street, Mid-Levels. kohthai.com.hk

Cali-Mex

Monsieur Chatte Jean Yves Chatte’s French gourmet shop Monsieur Chatte, offers a sophisticated French dining experience. The junk boat packages range from $150 to $350 per person and include salads, quiche, a roasted meat dish and multiple cheeses.

Each set is designed for 20 or more people to share. 121 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan. monsieurchatte.com

The California-style Mexican restaurant serves up traditional favourites including burritos, tacos and quesadillas. The restaurant offers three mouthwatering junk sets depending on the number of guests.

The first set, San Francisco is $880 and caters to ten people with a burrito each. For 15 people or more, the Malibu set offers a chips and salsa, a steak and salad platter,

Aqua Luna

KEEP IT

Set sail across Victoria Harbour TRADITIONAL on one of Hong Kong’s few remaining red-sail Chinese junks, an iconic feature along the waterfront. The 45-minute evening harbour cruise starts at $230, where guests can sail across the harbour whilst sipping on a complimentary drink. Alternatively, enjoy a 90-minute Stanley cruise along the Southside coastline.

Departure points at Central Pier 9, Tsim Sha Tsui and Stanley. aqualuna.com.hk

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dining

As summer sizzles, Nicole Cooley cools down with a spicy curry and refreshing lassi featuring a chaats stations, pani puri, dosas and of course, curries and sweets, with a build-your-own gin and tonic station and refreshing lassis (brunch from $298). Chaiwala succeeds in taking diners on a celebratory journey through India in a cozy and colourful setting. 4355 Wyndham Street, Central. chaiwala.hk

New Punjab Club

Bacco

New Punjab Club introduces diners to a variety of traditional Punjab dishes from Northern India and Pakistan. The restaurant is a labour of love from Syed Asim Hussain, a proud Punjabi who wanted to share the rich and buttery flavours of the cuisine with Hong Kong’s adventurous diners. Tandoors, restored from his father’s former restaurant, The Mughal Room are used by Michelinstarred Chef Palash Mitra to produce smokey Tandoori meats. New Punjab Club is the first Punjabi restaurant in the world to be awarded a Michelin star. 34 Wyndham Street, Central. newpunjabclub.com

The Jojo Indian Cuisine group had humble beginnings in a small flat in Wan Chai in 1985. The original restaurant was called JoJo Mess Club. Since those days, JoJo’s has expanded to include other locations including the Sai Kung branch, Bacco.

Food is served on the second floor and also on the terrace out back which is well-sheltered during rainy summer evenings thanks to a canopy. Bacco has an extensive menu of curries, kebabs and creative dishes with an influence from Calcutta. 21 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung. bacco.hk

Chaiwala Hidden in the depths of Wyndham Street, there is nothing secret about Chaiwala’s delicious modern Indian cuisine by Chef Balaji Balachander. The restaurant is hidden within a speakeasy, called Hugger Mugger, accessible through a bright red door. As you descend the dark staircase your are transported to a colonial British saloon. From here, order pre-dinner cocktails inspired

by British cultural legends. Weekend brunch is a colourful affair

Chungking Mansions, 36-44 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui Some of Hong Kong’s best (and cheapest) curry houses can be found in the notorious Chungking Mansions. Here are some of our favourites: Delhi Club, 3/F, Block C Taj Mahal Club, 3/F, Block B Khyber Pass Mess Club, 7/F, Block E Swagat Indian Restaurant, Shop 103-104, G/F

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summer spice Did you know?

A lassi is made of yoghurt, water, spices and sometimes fruit. Lassis come sweet, salty, or flavoured with fruits such as mango.

Sawaddee Thailand For a little Thai spice, Sawaddee Thailand offers some delicious Thai comfort food in both their restaurant on Chan Man Street and their casual dining area on Fuk Man Road, also known as Ally Thai. Spice dominant throughout the menu with classics including Thai Green Curry and Fried Crab with Dry Chilli & Garlic, to Massaman Curry with Stewed Beef. Wash the spice down with a fresh young coconut. Number 4, G/F, Sai Kung Garden, 16 Chan Man Street, Sai Kung. sawaddeethailand.iyp.hk

Village Malaysian Indian Tucked away on the entrance of Po Tung Road, Village Malaysian Indian serves up a fusion of Malaysian and Indian cuisine. This Indian restaurant and takeaway has a range of deliciously spicy dishes including Tandoori chicken and Malaysian coconut curries along with salads, soups and even traditional desserts such as gulab jamun. Dine in, collect or have your food delivered to your home. G/F, 1E Po Tung Road, Sai Kung. village.whoeat.hk

Did you know?

Eating hot, spicy foods is actually cooling as it makes your body sweat more than normal, lowering your body temperature!

Thai Dao Bombay Dreams Contemporary yet elegant, Hong Kong institution Bombay Dreams serves authentic Indian cuisine from North India to Goa. On the fourth floor overlooking Hollywood Road and Tai Kwun, delve into a sumptuous menu designed by Indian Master Chef Irshad Ahmed Qureshi. Be mesmerised by the skilled chefs as they prepare and cook melt-in-the-mouth meat and light breads using stunning Tandoori ovens in the open kitchen. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, options include classics such as kulfi and rasmalai.

4/F, Carfield Building, 77 Wyndham Street, Central. diningconcepts. com/restaurants/Bombay-Dreams

Overlooking the serene Sha Ha beach, Thai Dao gives diners a true holiday feel with their extensive Thai menu.

From spicy salads to creamy curries you’ll be whisked away to a tropical island complete with ocean noises and a Singha beer! 9 Sha Ha, Tai Mong Tsai Road, Sai Kung. facebook.com/ thaidao.saikung

Tulsi Don’t fancy heading all the way into Central but want to escape Sai Kung for the evening? Hop on the MTR, just four stops from Hang Hau is Tulsi Indian Restaurant at Quarry Bay. Recommended in the Michelin Guide since 2012, this restaurant is owned by professional chefs Mr Ravi and Mr Ravi Jaya Kumar. Enjoy their offerings of traditional Indian comfort food and their huge selection of Tandoori. Shop 1, G/F, Hoi Kwong Court, 13-15 Hoi Kwong Street, Quarry Bay. tulsi.com.hk

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dining

NIBBLES Momentai now official Hong Kong distributor for Anderson Valley Brewing Company

Beach Pub refurbishment The popular weekend hang out on Sha Ha beach is undergoing a bit of modernisation, with a new glass roof, a gold star archway marking the entrance and a newly designed menu. The restaurant and bar is still open and the work is expected to be completed in mid June. 7 Sha Ha Village, Tai Mong Tsai Road, Sai Kung

Founded in 1987, Anderson Valley Brewing Company is well known for their line of beers including Boont Amber Ale, Poleeko Pale Ale and Barney Flats Oatmeal Stout. You can now enjoy a pint of the craft beer at Momentai. Kiosk 1, Sai Kung Waterfront, Wai Man Road. momentai-la.com

Buy-one-get-one Monday and Tuesdays A Sai Kung secret: Many restaurants in the square including Big Fish and Piccolos offer a buy-one-get-one deal from 5-9pm on selected dishes, making your family meals half the price and double the fun. Now there’s one reason to celebrate Mondays!

Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung.

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female chefs

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education

School’s out for summer Nicole Cooley rounds up the best camps for kids and teens this summer

All-rounders Canadian International School of Hong Kong The CDNIS Summer Programme offers a whole variety of activities. Choose from over 30 morning and afternoon activities from Cambridge Summer School to Multi Activity to The Timba Swim School, even a Royal Tea Party! Suitable for kids aged three to 18 years old. Bus services available. cdnis.edu.hk

ESF Sports & Languages For activities to engage your kids this summer, look no further than the ESF

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Holiday Programme. There’s something for everyone with multi-sports, swimming, football, basketball on the sports side and drama, games, STEM, phonics, writing and more from the language and learning camps.

Sports camps run from July 2 to August 9 and languages from July 8 to August 30. esf.org.hk/camps

Hong Kong Academy Lovers of basketball, football or climbing can all play under one roof at HKA’s summer programme between June 24 and August 16.

Or for those more comfortable in a classroom, there are also coding sessions and even creative arts. Perfect for three to 16 year olds and open to both HKA and non-HKA students. hkacademy.edu.hk

summer education camps

Academic Aegis Advisors From June to August, experienced tutors will guide your children through the first stages of the IB, SAT and ACT courses, and prepare them for the future by ensuring they have the necessary skill sets to succeed through university admission courses for the US and UK. aegis-advisors.com

Creative & performing arts Academy of Dance Academy of Dance combines the magical world of Disney with the joy of dance for a truly wonderful summer camp experience from July 8 to August 23. Learn routines, meet friends, and have fun in jazz and hip hop classes or choose to focus on training in turns, leaps, kicks and techniques. All summer camp classes are based at the Shek Mun Dance Studios. academyofdance.com.hk

Stage Right Youth Theatre This summer, Stage Right are offering kids to put together a short performance over five

days to show their friends and family. Located in Clearwater Bay and Sai Kung Town, workshops run from July 1 to 12 and July 29 to August 9. Half day, full day and drop in classes are available for ages four all the way to 14. There’s even an option for a summer play in a day! stagerighthk.com

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

Asia Pacific Adventure For budding explorers aged 7-15, Asia Pacific Adventure offers week-long courses this summer. Specialists in outdoor learning with 16 years of history, APA has designed a camp that travels around the beautiful coastline of Hong Kong. From July 1 to August 2, they are offering water-based programmes that include activities such as kayaking, snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding. asiapacificadventure.com

Outward Bound Hong Kong Not for the faint-hearted (or anyone under nine), Outward Bound are offering a whole range of activities including dragon boating,

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education camps available from July 14 to August 9. sport4kids.hk

Littlies Fairchild No books needed at this play-based summer camp at Fairchild Junior Academy and Fairchild Kindergarten. From July 2 to August 30, Fairfield is holding morning and afternoon camps for ages eight months to six years.

Different Reggio styled-themes each week help children explore a variety of activities in sports, cooking, reading, storytelling, music, creative arts, sensory exploration and robotics & coding. fairchild.academy

Woodland Pre-Schools bouldering, hiking, orienteering, jetty jumping, camping and more. 4 Kidz and Teen Explorers courses run for five days and four nights whilst Young Adventure courses for teens aged 14-17 are eight day and seven night programmes. outwardbound.org.hk

Sport4Kids As well as summer camps in Hong Kong, Sport4Kids are running a Shenzhen Mandarin Immersion Residential Summer Camp at Maple Leaf International Academy. Expect a variety of sports, STEM flight simulation and Mandarin immersion. Week-long

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Woodland are offering all children aged three to six years an epic summer of fun. From July 2 to August 9, this multi-activity based camp will cover everything from sports and games to construction and cooking. Every day is different and includes lots of indoor and outdoor play. For a $500 gift voucher to be used towards Term 1 fees, use discount code “Woodland VIP’, valid until June 21 and subject to availability. This year Woodland are also offering a special Summer Programme for Babies and Toddlers aged six months up. woodlandcamp.hk

education

The Key to Language Learning – Responsive and Respectful Relationships In collaboration with Yew Chung International School (YCIS) Early Childhood Education (ECE) partnership between home and school is critical in understanding and supporting the child’s development. The true purpose of language is supported through these responsive and respectful relationships, connecting with children in meaningful ways, to build the necessary solid foundation for life-long holistic learning.

New ECE Campus in Tseung Kwan O YCIS is expanding to Tseung Kwan O from Kowloon Tong with a new campus targeted to open in academic year 2019-20. Situated in a serene corner at Savannah in Tseung Kwan O, the campus, with an area of approximately 20,000 sq.ft., enables children to be children without boundaries. The spacious space, designed to develop confidence and security, gives them opportunities to move and explore. It also strives to create both individual relationships as well as a large, warm and supportive community as a whole.

C

hildren come into this world with their brains and hearts wired to learn and communicate. They are instinctively motivated to connect with others.

More than anything, what children really need from us to develop their language is warm, nurturing and responsive relationships, where they feel safe to explore the many forms of communication. These types of responsive relationships are what continue to motivate children’s desire to deepen their communication and language skills. When adults are responsive to children’s communication, they give children the strong message that they are valued and that they can have an effect on the outside world, making things happen when they express themselves.

Key features:

At the same time, we need to respect and honour their uniqueness. Living in Hong Kong, children come to school with diverse language backgrounds, home language experiences, and individual characteristics.

It is absolutely essential that we recognise children as individuals, responding to their uniqueness. Supporting and honouring their home cultures and languages, builds children’s self-confidence, self-identity and connection with their families. With relationships that are respectful to who the child is, children are safe to explore communication and language on a deeper level.

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Approximate 20,000 sq. ft.

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Shadow Cave (napping space)

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Reading Garden

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Open Physical Activity Field

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Role-play Area

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Music Room

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Library Area

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Creative Studio

Caring about the youngest generation, YCIS is committed to bringing a quality environment with children’s health and safety being the top priorities.

Indoor air quality test will be conducted to ensure the requirement set by the Environmental Protection Department is adequately met, and furniture

At the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Section of Yew Chung International School (YCIS), responsive and respectful relationships always come first. YCIS believes in the natural capabilities of children and embraces their differences. YCIS provides a multilingual learning environment, with two teachers in the classroom – one teacher connecting with children through English and another teacher connecting with children through Cantonese. Mandarin is also incorporated as there is a teacher that often comes to visit classrooms and build relationships with the children in Mandarin. Teachers closely get to know individual children and families, as the

reaching international safety standard is used. Airpurifying surface paint awarded with international eco-certificates and HK G-Pass label, which removes germs and purifies harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde and methylbenzene, is delicately selected.

Interested in joining YCIS’s ECE campus in Tseung Kwan O? Join the private info session and admissions interview held this month to talk to YCIS ECE leadership team.

Enquiry: 2338 7106 or admissions@ycef.com Website: ycis-hk.com

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big day out

Yau Ley,

a different way

Matt Teague treks to a popular seafood restaurant hidden within Sai Kung Country Park

F

or those of you local to Sai Kung, you’ll be well aware of the ‘hidden’ gem that exists deep inside Sai Kung’s Country Park. Yau Ley is one of Hong Kong’s least accessible seafood restaurants, but it’s well worth the trip. The family-owned restaurant is most commonly reached by boat, it’s a tried and tested popular Sunday destination for yachting families and friends and the perfect place to swing by after a hot day out at sea.

Somewhere to fuel up on fresh seafood and a cool Tsing Tao before heading home.

Lesser known, however, is an alternative route to this much-loved seafood restaurant - by foot through Sai Kung Country Park. The hike is beautiful, quiet and quaint and you’ll be able to explore a little of Hong Kong’s history along the way.

For a full day out, having packed enough

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water and sunscreen, grab the number 94 bus or a taxi to the entrance of Sai Kung Country Park. For those wanting less of a hike, you can continue the taxi ride through the gate to Pak A, a short distance past the west (first) dam of the reservoir.

The walk from the gate will help you work up an appetite for what awaits you at your destination. Stick to Sai Kung Man Yee Road (also part of the Maclehose Trail Section 1) which takes you around the west of High Island Reservoir. It’s a great educational opportunity for children and adults alike to discover more about this huge body of water.

It now covers what were once settlements of villages and communities of the deeper Sai Kung area. The two dams were built in 1979, before which ‘High Island’ was (you guessed it) an actual island. The West Dam itself gives a stunning view out towards Kau Sai Chau

and Sai Kung beyond, a great place to stop for a breather and photos.

Skirting the reservoir takes around two hours before you reach a sign pointing to ‘Pak A’ village that leads you right, off the road and down a footpath. The walk from here isn’t long, but it’s an interesting one, particularly if you’re a sucker for relics - so pace yourself and take it in.

Continuing on the downhill path for around 15 minutes takes you to a pagoda next to the ocean, another place to calmly sit and collect yourself. I love seeing Sai Kung from these different perspectives, it’s unique topography, with jagged coasts and endless hills give innumerable vantage points of the same ocean. Being in nature really gives you a feel of how vast a seemingly tiny area is. In Sai Kung, it’s so easy to find your ‘place’ in space and mind.

yau ley, my way

Lunch time

After a short rest, take the left-side path along the coast. You’ll pass some old, abandoned village houses, a basketball court and school. At the next fork in the path, turn right and you’ll soon end up at Leung Sheun Wan Tin Hau Temple. This place of worship dates all the way back to 1741. Stop here to pay your respects and take some time to appreciate how much this site has meant to so many generations past.

You’ll pass a sea urchin restaurant (one for trying next time) before passing another large abandoned building. Have a peek in the windows at the well-preserved antiques which still remain to this day.

Looking across the water you’ll catch sight of Sha Kiu Pier, your destination. Follow the last bit of coast around the small beach cove, and you’ll soon arrive there.

Yau Ley offer, something to satisfy every

hungry hiker. Although a seafood restaurant, there’s a decent selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes. Kids can enjoy the beach and some time in the ocean too. Once you’ve taken in the views, vibes, bites and beers you can either trek back the way you came (not so easy with a full belly) or jump on a speedboat which conveniently takes you back to Sai Kung Pier. The boat itself is around $900 for up to 10 passengers.

Taking in the view

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travel

Guests in Mongolia

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game nepal reserve

Sai Kung residents take charity trip to Nepal Local resident Carmel Hutchinson shares diary entries from her time with the local education charity

I

n March of this year, local residents Louise Duncan, Carmel Hutchinson and Mojdeh Kazemi (owner of Tala’s Hair & Beauty Boutique) took a trip to Nepal in support of First Step Himalaya, a charity which runs education projects in rural areas of the country.

During the 10-day visit the Sai Kung residents aimed to help disadvantaged communities promote early childhood development and improve the quality of education. They visited local schools, delivered supplies and met children from the region. Here, Carmel shares her diary entries from their trip.

FRIDAY 15TH MARCH What a sight we were arriving at the airport with all our gear! Louise, Moj and I were carrying over 120kg of luggage between us - mostly consisting of educational resources and sporting equipment. After touching down in Kathmandu’s notorious airport we headed to The Kathmandu Guesthouse to rest in preparation for the busy day that lay ahead.

SATURDAY 16TH MARCH Durga, a director and co-founder for First

Steps Himalaya, arrived at the guest house to meet us before we headed to Mulkharka where we would stay with a host family for the coming days. The whole family greeted us as we arrived at the house; Gyan, the father and a headmaster of a local high school, his wife Junkiri, their 15-year-old daughter Samikshya and their 22-year-old son, Birendra with his young wife, Sabina.

SUNDAY 17TH TUESDAY 19TH MARCH After a nourishing home-cooked breakfast of omelette, roti and banana, we headed to our first school in Aadarsha. In Nepal, school is attended five and a half days a week – from Sunday through to Friday morning.

During the next three days, we visited Shree Siddartha Bastic School, Janajyorti Diyale School and Sangachock Training School and Guesthouse. At these schools, we worked with local teachers, helping to train them in techniques of play-based learning. Louise scoped out what resources they already had and showed them how to arrange their classrooms in a manner that was inviting and engaging for the children.

Moj and the local residents

WEDNESDAY 20TH MARCH How lucky we were to be in Nepal for Holi Day, a Festival of Colour! It’s marked by a public holiday so no school today. Holi is a huge festival in Nepal, particularly in Kathmandu so we made a joint decision to head to the capital a day earlier to take in the festivities. While we felt a pang of guilt that we weren’t working, we also acknowledged this rare opportunity to witness such a lively cultural festival.

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travel

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game nepal reserve SATURDAY 23RD SUNDAY 24TH MARCH We woke early and enjoyed our last meal in Nuwakot before heading back to the lovely Kathmandu Guesthouse. We relished the hot shower and a lovely evening out at a local restaurant followed by a whole 10 hours of sleep! We spent our last day exploring the city in a rickshaw before heading to the airport and back to Hong Kong.

Carmel, Louise and Mojdeh travelled to Nepal in collaboration with local charity, First Step Himalaya. To find out more about travel opportunities with the charity or to get involved in any other way visit firststepshimalaya.org Louise teaching a class

THURSDAY 21ST MARCH

FRIDAY, 22ND MARCH

Today we said our goodbyes to Moj, she is heading back to Hong Kong two days earlier than us. Louise, Durga and I loaded up the car with all our gear and set out for the town of Nuwakot. Our journey was long and arduous as the road was bumpy and broken from a recent earthquake. Finally, we arrived at Ajingare Secondary School, which had a pupil-free day in preparation for exams so sadly we weren’t able to see the kids and teachers in action.

We awoke in our new accommodation after a patchy night’s sleep (our aching bones were quite weary from the rugged roads - I don’t think we are as tough as the Nepalese!)

We spent a jam-packed day visiting seven schools around the area including the schools, Bageswori, Pragatisheel, Bhumedevi, Kanyadevi, Kalyan, Sundradevi and Srijansheel.

Y A W A E GIV

Win a two-night stay at Fusion Resort Cam Ranh in Vietnam!

Perched atop a towering sand dune on the South-Central Vietnamese coast, Fusion Resort Cam Ranh offers a down-to-earth option for those looking for a five-star accommodation without the fuss and formality of a straight-laced resort.

Rest and relaxation are central to the daily lifestyle here thanks to Fusion’s all-inclusive spa menu and complementary wellness activities such as yoga, tai chi and meditation. The chic beachfront villas boast open-plan living spaces, private outdoor infinity pools and terraces with designer hammock bathtubs.

Dining choices include authentic Vietnamese cuisine and international delicacies. All meals are served in intimate yet casual settings. Guests can enjoy Fusion’s signature artisanal cocktails and sundowner drinks while taking in sweeping views of the green and blue natural surroundings. With the resort’s ‘breakfast anywhere, anytime’ concept, you can wake up to breakfast in bed served with unobstructed views of rolling sand dunes and lapping waves.

We are giving away a two-night stay at Fusion Resort Cam Ranh’s Garden Pool Villa (accommodates two) to one lucky winner. The prize includes daily breakfast and spa treatments.

To enter, simply scan the QR code or visit hongkongliving.com/giveaways

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village focus

Tui Min Hoi

Exploring the village across the sea

W

hen gazing out across Sai Kung’s waterfront past the boats, you may notice the quiet and pleasantly quirky village of

Tui Min Hoi. The village’s name directly translates to ‘across the sea’ which is the perfect description for this seafront village. From the old town, it only takes a few minutes walk before you reach the path traversing the outer edge of Tui Min Hoi. At the start of the path, keep your eyes peeled for the first railings on the left, you can often find tiny crabs scurrying along the banks.

How to get there Head through the old town until you reach the boatyard on the other side, then head up the staircase on your right or take the Number 4 minibus from Sai Kung Town.

The path twists and turns down large boatyards and uniquely designed village houses, each different to its neighbour.

Occasionally narrow back alleyways break off from the path, inviting you deeper into Tui Min Hoi. For a picturesque view, take the first turning on the right which leads up a hill.

The halfway point provides a panoramic view over the boatyards and Sai Kung old town. Keep heading up and you’ll stumble into Kwun Mun Fishermen Village. All the houses found in this section of Tui Min Hoi are government built, due to the construction of High Island Reservoir, most of the residents had to relocate.

Leung Kam Sze, a long time resident of Kwun Mun Fishermen Village rememises, “My family and I were originally fishermen who lived on a boat docked in Kwun Mun Channel (now High Island Reservoir) once the dam was built it meant we could no longer live there.” He continues, “With the loss of our

homes, all the fishermen who lived in the area were moved onto land in this village - this is the first and only house I’ve ever lived in”.

Leung explains why she never moved out of Tui Min Hoi, “It’s nice living here, we’re still very close to Sai Kung. Even for my age, I can still walk to Sai Kung town to buy ingredients from the market. I’m too old to walk back up the hill, but there’s a bus which stops at the village so it is very convenient.”

Throughout Tui Min Hoi, many of the houses have their own miniature gardens - fully utilising the available space. Look a little closer and you’ll begin to notice many objects around the village appear to have been handmade. Clothing lines strung with ring pulls are used to hold hangers in place as clothes dry, garden shelves hammered together using odd bits of metal, fishing nets converted into recycling bins, kitchen ladles made from a cleaned out coconut shells.

“Most of us come from a fishing background, we’re used to making things. It helps us save money. It’s good for the environment and is also quite fun,” said Leung.

Want to have your village featured? Email editorial@hongkongliving.com

SAIKUNG.COM | 41

woof

Ask a vet...

Hair loss and sand indigestion. Dr Pauline answers your pet questions I brush my cat every day but he still sheds so much fur. How can I prevent this?

The hot and humid climate in Hong Kong, coupled with the fact that many cats here are indoor cats, means that they simply do not need a thick furry coat to survive. When the weather gets hot we humans put on fewer or thinner clothes. Our cats cannot do this so they shed some of their hair and it’s quite normal for this to happen every day. They also shed more during the spring and summer when the days are longer. I recommend you keep gently brushing your cat regularly. In doing so you will remove shed hair from the body and prevent some of the hair sticking to your furniture or worse to your cat’s tongue! A good balanced diet is recommended and if the shedding really appears excessive perhaps you should check in with your vet. Medical problems including stress, infection, parasitic or fungal disease, allergies and even sunburn are a few possible contributing factors.

My medium sized dog accidentally ate a chocolate chip. how much chocolate does it take to cause problems?

The rule of thumb is that the darker and less sweet the chocolate, the more dangerous it is. Lighter milk chocolates have much

lower concentrations of the toxic component “theobromine”. This means that a dog could get sick or die from eating a small amount of cooking chocolate, but eating an equivalent amount of milk chocolate could produce very mind to no symptoms. Toxic doses of theobromine are reported to be as low as 20 mg/kg. Symptoms can include agitation, hyperactivity and gastrointestinal signs (such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea - all which may smell like chocolate.) In your case, how much chocolate depends on the size and weight of your dog and the type of chocolate eaten. One pound of milk chocolate is poisonous to a 20 pound dog; 0.5 pound for a 10 pound dog. The average chocolate bar contains two to three ounces of milk chocolate.

It would take two to three chocolate bars to poison a 10 pound dog. Therefore, I wouldn’t be unduly worried about one chocolate chip eaten by a medium sized dog.

What is the most unusual case you’ve ever encountered?

When I was living in New Zealand. A middle age dachshund “Kora” presented to my clinic with intermittent vomiting and lethargy. Kora lived at the coast and used to walk a few miles every day with her owner along the beach.

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

Upon examination of Kora’s abdomen, a painful swelling as thick as my wrist and over two feet long was easily palpated. X-rays showed a thickened part of the small intestine. The entire gut was solid, instead of being tube like and round to allow the passage of food. The area was blocked but I had no idea what could be stuck there... What on earth had Kora eaten that looked so solid on X-ray?

Kora went to surgery the same day and what I found was a solid plug of sand through nearly three feet of the intestine. The sand was very crumbly, hard, dry and rock like. It turned out the owner rarely washed Kora’s feet after her walks. Kora must have licked her feet to clean them up and had swallowed small amounts of sand for years.

Always be sure to rinse your dog in fresh water after a trip to the beach especially the feet - to stop the ingestion of sand.

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

Mochi’s Musings The eyes and floppy ears of Hong Kong Living on what’s happening around the office I’m Mochi, the office dog who gets to witness the flustered looks the day before a big event, and the high five’s when it all comes together. So what did I see last month?

During May, we held our Hong Kong Living Awards 2019 Charity Lunch at FINDS, The Luxe Manor. Unfortunately there were no dogs allowed - but I did wear my special pup-tuxedo at home in their honour!

Guests including award nominees and winners celebrated the best of Hong Kong and enjoyed a delicious 3-course Nordic lunch with free flowing wine from The Flying Winemaker. There was a raffle game with exciting prizes plus a photo booth,

42 | SAIKUNG.COM

with all profits going to support Hands On Hong Kong.

information. Can’t wait to meet you all - be sure to say hi!

Curious to see who won gold? Check out a list of all the winners online at hongkongliving.com

Until next time, Mochi xo

Now, it’s time to get organised for our Pet Carnival - my favourite event of the year!

Hope to see you all there on June 8 at Dog Dog Come Wonderland! There’ll be a pop-up market and an outdoor doggy paddle pool just for us! Plus, local animal shelters Catherine’s Puppies and LAP (Lifelong Animal Protection) will also be there to offer dog adoption services so that you can take home a new lifelong friend. Check out our website for more

zim city

Run for change Paul Zimmerman on Hong Kong Island’s StaRun to raise awareness for area improvements

O

nce a year StaRun organizes a 60km run around Hong Kong Island. Beforehand teams scout for the best route close to the shore and safe for over a thousand runners.

Let’s walk anti-clock wise starting at ‘SoHo East’, the restaurants in Sai Wan Ho. The Harbourfront Commission has funding in place to build a boardwalk from Quarry Bay to North Point. The waterfront of Wanchai is being reopened steadily with the completion of the Central Wanchai Bypass. You can already walk along Victoria Harbour passing through Tamar, the piers in Central, Shun Tak Centre, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park, the Western Tunnel Portal area and in front of the Western Wholesale Market onto the Western Cargo Working Area (it is nicknamed Instagram pier, Google it to see why). From there walk along the Kennedy Town Praya and up Victoria Road. This route will continue to move closer to the water as various initiatives come to fruition.

After you pass the renovated ex-Victoria Detention Centre you can walk down the stairs from Victoria Road to Sandy Bay. This is the start of the Southern District Coastal Trail which will be sign posted all the way to Stanley later this year. To bring this route closer to East Lamma Channel we are asking Cyberport to fund a 280m walkway over the

Section 4 asks for a path down from Cape D’Aguilar to Shek O beach

water between Sandy Bay and its waterfront park (Section 1) while the Home Affairs Department is studying a footbridge over Waterfall Bay (Section 2).

Next you’ll pass the 1,000 statues of Wah Fu, the Aberdeen Fish Market and Promenade, Heung Yip Road Nullah, Wong Chuk Hang Station, Ocean Park, Mills & Chung Path, the beaches of Deep Water Bay and Repulse Bay, Ma Hang Park and Stanley Plaza. A District Minor Works application to fund improvements of the path between South Bay and Chung Hom Kok (Section 3) is pending approval.

From Stanley the route goes up into the Country Park around Tai Tam Bay and up Dragon’s Back. To improve on this we have asked AFCD for a path down from Cape D’Aguilar to Shek O beach (Section 4) from where you can walk via Big Wave Bay to Chai Wan. Finally, to get back to Shau Kei Wan is at the moment a circuitous route through Chai Wan Gap. This can be significantly and easily improved on if we succeed in convincing LCSD to open a short pathway through the Museum of Coastal Defence (Section 5).

The runners joining StaRun will try to complete the entire route in one day. Other people will walk sections of the “Hong Kong Island Coastal Trail” based on their location and time available. The closer the route runs

to the water, the more it will be suitable for all ages and abilities. Let’s work together to convince government to take on the five identified projects. What do you think? Email me at info@paulzimmerman.hk

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

SAIKUNG.COM | 43

game

Spot the difference Spot the five differences between the two images below. Answers next issue.

Image: Dragon boat paddling Answer to last month: 1. Backgroud colour changed

44 | SAIKUNG.COM

2. Cloth colour changed

4. Teddy’s eye is missing!

3. Teddy smiled even wider

5. Text removed from paper

marketplace

marketplace

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

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SAIKUNG.COM | 45

marketplace

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in marketplace the garden

What to plant in June

A

subtropical climate awaits, as the feeling of stickiness and humidity comes flooding back into the city with an average high and low temperature of 30°C / 26°C (86°F / 78.8°F).

With rainy season encroaching on the island, your garden is becoming less tasking. The longest day of the year is upon us, but don’t put your feet up for too long as your plants and seeds will need extra care so as not to drown from the rainfall, or dry up from the extreme heat.

The colourful blossoms will really put a spring in your summery step this summer. Hydrangeas propagated last January may finally be upgraded from six to seven-inch pots for display.

It’s time to sow Moonflowers, nightblooming wonders that you can wake up and admire with your morning tea.

Adiantums may be relocated from three-inch to four-inch pots. Ready for display are the annual seeds sown in June: Torenia Fournieri, Sunflower, Moonflower, Pentapetes and Cockscombs.

Take time to sow seeds of the following: Mustard and Cress, Chinese Spinach, Cucumber, Lettuce, Sweet Corn, and White Cabbage. A top tip most gardeners forget, Brinjals will be much better if they have some of their leaves taken off, as they will continue to bear much longer. So roll up your sleeves and dig a little more manure at the roots to aid growth.

One piece of advice: with your June garden ready to flourish, grab a book and enjoy some time indoors as the temperamental typhoon weather encroaches. As Marcus Cicero once said, “If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need!”

By William James Tutcher F.L.S. (1867-1920) Superintendent of Hong Kong Botanical Gardens.

Paraphrased from his seminal 1906 work Gardening for Hong Kong.

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SAIKUNG.COM | 47

stephen says... hidden. Yet I cannot possibly be the only person wanting to get rid of things like old computers, maybe a dead television set and countless other electronic devices.

As for the pathetic attempts at waste separation in most refuse collection areas, it’s a joke. The containers for plastic, paper and metal are topped by small letter box-style flaps making it very difficult to push in anything but the smallest amounts of waste. Which idiot actually thought it would be a good idea to design a way of discouraging people to separate their waste?

Thank you Food Environment and Hygiene Department for yet again never missing a chance to miss a chance.

Is time up for free parking abusers?

Stephen Vines shares his thoughts on roadside parking, electronic waste and more

T

he Sai Kung police are planning to crackdown on abuse of roadside free parking spaces which are designed for short-term parking but have often ended up being used on a long term basis by second hand car sellers, company vehicles and goodness knows who else. The law says that anyone parking in these spaces for more than 24 hours can be fined but the law is flagrantly ignored, especially by car sellers who abuse free parking spaces to advertise their vehicles. Anyone who has passed the Hiram’s Highway parking area close to the Hong Kong Scout Association premises at Pak Sha Wan will have seen for sale vehicles sitting there for very long periods of time. It’s not supposed to be an effing car sale showroom.

Hiram’s Highway widening – so far, so good Contrary to many people’s expectations the first phase of the Hiram’s Highway expansion project has been going better than expected with minimal disruption to traffic flow even around the new Ho Chung bridge. So credit where credit’s due to the folk working on this project. It would be something of a miracle if zero traffic disruption had been achieved but,

48 | SAIKUNG.COM

in my experience, where delays have occurred they have been minimal.

It remains to be seen what will happen when phase two gets underway as the physical challenges beyond Marina Cove stretching into Sai Kung town appear to be greater.

The other big road widening project on the Sai Sha Road from Tai Mong Tsai to Ma On Shan is not going so well. Although this project is seemingly more straightforward, it is subject to almost constant traffic hold ups and delays despite the volume of traffic being much lower.

Go figure.

Sai Kung has a problem with electronic waste The government keeps telling us how keen it is for citizens to recycle but how does that work in practice? I recently decided to get rid of some unwanted electronic equipment that can indeed be recycled but how on earth do you do that in Sai Kung. Having conscientiously visited the bigger waste collection areas I discovered that there was nowhere to recycle electronic waste, if such a place exists in Sai Kung it sure is well

Ever had that empty feeling?

I’ve given up counting how many empty retail premises now festoon Sai Kung town. Many were previously occupied by really useful little stores others enhanced the variety of the town’s eateries and some of them simply added to the choice which makes shopping in Sai Kung so different from elsewhere in Hong Kong. There is no mystery over why these premises are empty, it’s mainly due to rising rents – and that means rising by impressive amounts but mystery lingers over why certain landlords would prefer to leave premises vacant for long periods rather than accept more reasonable rents. Could the word greed possibly apply here?

Great insights from the bureaucrats Finally, warm thanks to those wonderful people at the Lands Department who have recently been using taxpayers’ money to warn short term tenancy holders (why just them is a mystery) that ‘mosquitoes and rodents help to spread diseases like Zika virus infection, dengue fever and bubonic plague whereas (sic) biting midges cause irritation and discomfort to humans’. Crickey, who knew? Maybe some of these ghastly short term tenancy holders have been keeping mosquitos as pets or are busy cultivating rodents. So thanks to the Lands ‘experts’ for alerting us to the dangers therein; next up from the department of compelling insights, expect a warning that it might get cold in winter and that coldness can produce all manner of diseases.

Stephen Vines is a journalist, broadcaster and entrepreneur. He is the former editor of the Eastern Express and Southeast Asia correspondent for The Observer.

SAIKUNG.COM | 49

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