STARGAZING | MOONCAKES | SOHO HOUSE
September 2019
Serene Stanley YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE
PLUS! The Peak Galleria revamped Dine, shop and explore
Soho House opens its doors
An exclusive look inside
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The really useful magazine September 2019
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Southsiders enjoying the sunshine
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18
29 DINING
PEOPLE
Mooncake madness! Plus Nibbles
34 HOME & LIVING
THE PLANNER What’s on in September
Volunteering in Hong Kong
10 NEWS
38 OUTDOORS
What’s happening in our backyard
12 MUST HAVES
Where to catch a glimpse of the stars
42 TRAVEL
Redecorate your kids bedrooms
Taiwan gears up to host KOM Challenge
14 LOCAL A look inside the new Peak Galleria
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48 PETS Dr Pauline answers your pet questions. Plus walkies
17 5 MINS WITH… Ronald Po, Founder of Capstone Prep Education
51 ZIM CITY
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Where have all the railings gone?
18 COVER STORY
52 SOUTHSIDE SECRETS
Your ultimate guide to Stanley
St. Stephen’s College hidden past
24 ARTS & CULTURE Dance your way through to Friday
56 MRS BACKFIRE Our backpage columnist discusses the topic of tipping
27 LIFE & STYLE A sneak peak inside Soho House
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29 “SHOOT FOR THE MOON. EVEN IF YOU MISS, YOU’LL LAND AMONG THE STARS.” - LES BROWN
SOUTHSIDE.HK | 1
editor’s letter
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tanley market was always special to me growing up, whenever we had visitors we’d make the hour-long journey to the waterfront market all the way from where we lived in Sai Kung. With the promise of a Pepperoni’s pizza for lunch and a chance to restock our toy collection, my brother and I would bundle into the hot car no complaints! While Pepperoni’s is no longer in Stanley, there are plenty of restaurants, shops and hidden treasures around the market. We’ve dedicated this month’s issue to the wonderful sea-side town with our ultimate guide to Stanley and we commissioned a beautiful cover designed by Hong Kong artist, Mia Barrell. Turn to page 18 for more. September 13 marks the second largest celebration on the Chinese calendar, MidAutumn Festival. I can’t think of anywhere more magical than Repulse Bay, lit up with lanterns and happy families celebrating the festivities. If you’re looking to celebrate, take a step closer to the moon with our Stargazing Guide on page 38 or enjoy the cake of the season with our guide to Mooncakes on page 29. Wishing you a wonderful Mid-Autumn festival and hopefully some drier weather to come!
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 Charmaine Ng, charmaineng@hongkongliving.com
Design
Design Coordinator Sonia Khatwani, sonia@hongkongliving.com Graphic Designer Jeramy Lee, jeramy@hongkongliving.com Alvin Cheng, alvin@hongkongliving.com
Events
Event Executive Ran Chan, ran@hongkongliving.com
Sales & Marketing
Director of Content Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Senior Partnership Manager Isamonia Chui, isamonia@hongkongliving.com Partnership Manager 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 Florence Clifford Danielle Tjia Paul Zimmerman Denis Leung Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772
Kimberley Chan
Becky Love
Is an aspiring illustrator who designed our beautiful Stanley cover this month. View her work at miabarrellart.wixsite.com/ illustrator or on instagram @miabarrellart What’s your favourite Stanley pastime? Looking through Stanley market and finding unique things. The seafront is also a nice place to walk.
Though born and bred in Hong Kong, Kimberley spends term-time studying abroad in Toronto. She has enjoyed writing and re-experiencing little things about her home city with us this month. What’s your favourite Stanley pastime? Getting McDonalds or pizza from Paisanos and chatting with my friends at the promenade or at the beach.
Our contributing editor rounds up the best charities and organisations to lend a hand to, on page 34. What’s your favourite Stanley pastime? I love sitting on the top level of the double decker bus to Stanley and taking in the views, then wandering the markets, talking to stall owners and grabbing lunch at the Boathouse.
Want to write for Southside Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 2 | SOUTHSIDE.HK
Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong
HONG KONG hongkongliving.com Southside Magazine is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Southside Magazine cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.
Illustration by Mia Barrell
Mia Barrell
Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
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people Snaps from Southside
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say cheese Snaps from Southside
Hong Kong Living Summer Yacht Party
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planner
SEP 30
Hong Kong Living Influencer Awards 2020
Celebrate the city’s most influential people and the launch of our Hong Kong Influencer Guide with an afternoon of drinks, nibbles and fabulous guest speakers at Zuma. 3.30-5.30pm. $380. Zuma, Level 6 Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central. hongkongliving.com/shop
SEP 7 & 8
A Feast for the City A weekend dining event featuring renowned chefs, live cooking stations and signature dishes. With freeflow drinks and live music this culinary event is set to be the party of the month! PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central. feasthk.com
new season begins this month. First race at 1pm, gates open at 11am. $10. Hong Kong Jockey Club Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin and Hong Kong Jockey Club Happy Valley Racecourse, Happy Valley. racing.hkjc.com
SEPT 3-7
Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair 2019
SEPT 7 & 8
KidsDressSmart (KiDS) Pop-Up Head to the lounge at Dragon-i for designer kids’ clothing at up to 90 percent off. 60 percent of sales will go towards helping Splash teach kids to swim. 10.30am-4.30pm. Free. Dragon-i, 60 Wyndham Street, Central. dragon-i.com.hk
Watch lovers, take note! The Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair will showcase the latest and most exquisite designs from over 140 brands. Expect special promotions, lucky draws and even parades. Open to the public on September 7, 9:30am-5pm. Free. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai. Find out more at hkwatchfair.hktdc.com/te/public
UNTIL SEPT 30
SEPT 7-29
Hong Kong artist Agnes Pang paints the beauty of Hong Kong’s transportation system in her mini exhibition. Free. Hong Kong Day, The Peak Tower, The Peak. agnesrecycles.com
Grab a beer and laugh with stand up comedians from all over Asia. Varying times, prices and venues. laughfestival.hk
Hong Kong On The Move
Hong Kong International Laugh Festival
FROM SEPT 1
SEPT 8
Saddle up – it’s time for a day at the races! The
Sweeping award after award, this British indie
Horse Racing Season 6 SOUTHSIDE.HK |
The 1975 Live in Hong Kong
what’s on group returns to Hong Kong for the first time in four years. 8pm. From $988. Hall 2, AsiaWorldExpo, Chek Lap Kok. cityline.com
SEPT 12-14
Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance Parade A tradition not to be missed this autumn, involving over 300 performers, 70,000 incense sticks and too many fireworks to count, this 67-metre-long parade will be winding its way through and lighting up Hong Kong’s streets. 8.15-10.30pm. Free. Tai Hang, Causeway Bay. lcsd.gov.hk
SEPT 21
Mind Over Matter – Hong Kong Inter School Quiz The fifth edition of Mind Over Matter – Hong Kong Inter School Quiz is back for another exciting year. The platform helps students find joy in the quest for learning, develop curious minds and raise their knowledge quotient in the process. 10am. Free. German Swiss International School, 11 Guildford Road, The Peak. tvamevasolutions.com/momsq2019/ index.html
SEPT 13
Mid-Autumn Lantern Carnival It’s that time of year again: head to Causeway Bay for a fantastic celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival, including dance shows, acrobatics, and kung fu demonstrations alongside brilliant lantern displays and a fire dragon parade. 8-11pm. Free. Victoria Park, Causeway Bay. lcsd.gov.hk
party is back and you’re invited! Join the Bohemian Pupsody for a fabulous evening of music and dancing. From $1,700. Aberdeen Marina Club, 8 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen. hongkongdogrescue.com
SEPT 21-22
IRIS: Your Escape Hong Kong’s largest outdoor fitness festival is back! Sweat your weekend out through 80+ yoga and fitness activities led by star instructors, calm your mind in meditation garden or shop at the market. Saturday 10.30am-9pm, Sunday 9am-6pm. Single day pass $280, weekend pass $380. Central Harbourfront Event Space, Central. irishk.com
SEPT 22
Wedding Expo
SEPT 21
Batman Night Run in Hong Kong
Planning for your big day? Get some inspiration on venues, dresses, decorations and more at the 2019 Wedding Expo. 2-6pm. Free. The Helena May, 35 Garden Road, Central. helenamay.com
Batman turns 80 this year! What better idea than to celebrate and dress up as the Hero, Joker or Harley Quinn, and race in the dark with hundreds of other die hard fans? 6-9pm. Adults $480, children $280. West Kowloon Cultural District. hybridticketing.com
SEPT 21
Sake Walk 2019 Hong Kong’s largest sake event will showcase over 80 sakes from 14 breweries across Japan, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy, buy and learn about the incredible and diverse range of sakes. From $100. House 1881, 2A Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. jebsenfinewines.com/sake-walk-hk
SEPT 14-15
Booze it Up! Pirate’s Beer Fest Don your pirate getup and unleash your wild side in Pirateland! The fun festival features the ‘Stairway to Heaven’, a super Insta-worthy setup on the rooftop of the mall. 2-8pm. Online tickets $120, door tickets $160. Rooftop, 28 Beach Road, The Pulse, Repulse Bay. piratebeerfest. eventbrite.com
SEPT 17-NOV 9 Secret Theatre
If you live for the thrill, you’ll love Secret Theatre. Join the immersive chiller rebus where the audience will have the power to decide the evening’s outcome. 6pm for Aaharn pre-theatre dinner; show begins 7.30pm; Aaharn posttheatre dinner at 9.45pm. Early bird $788, dinner and show combination from $1,288. Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central. ticketflap.com
SEPT 24-29
Shakespeare’s Globe 2019 ABA Productions is back with three famous Shakespeare plays: Pericles, Twelfth Night and The Comedy of Errors. On the opening night, the choice of play will be at your command! 7.45pm. From $395. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Amphitheatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai. aba-productions.com
SEPT 28
Paddington Bear Concert
SEPT 21
South Island Art Day Hong Kong’s dynamic art district promises an exciting program including art exhibitions in 13 art spaces, performance and interactive pieces in the streets of Wong Chuk Hang. 12 noon-8pm. Free. Southern district. scid.com.hk
SEPT 21
Bohemian Pupsody – An Evening with Teddie Mercury Hong Kong Dog Rescue’s annual charity
We’ve been waiting for his return since Paddington Bear robbed us of our hearts in the theatres! The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra presents Paddington Bear with a delightful ballet score. From $180. Hong Kong City Hall Concert Hall, Central. ticketflap.com
SEPT 29 Terra 22
The annual half-marathon over Dragon’s Back and Tai Tam Dam is back! Run 22km crosscountry then relax with a hard-earned drink at the finish line in Stanley. 9am-1pm. $320. Siu Sai Wan Promenade. Register at raceregistration.asia
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book now
BOOK NOW Le Meridien Cyberport, 100 Cyberport Road, Telegraph Bay. ticketflap.com
OCT 5-13
Hong Kong Tennis Open 2019
OCT 4-7
Asia Contemporary Art Show
Didn’t make it to Wimbledon? Never fear, the Hong Kong Open is here! Over 50 of the world’s best professional female players will be in action on Hong Kong’s leg of the WTA Tour. Oct 5-7 free, Oct 8-13 $160. Victoria Park Tennis Stadium, Causeway Bay. hktennisopen.hk
More than 1500 pieces of modern art from the world’s most dynamic and promising artists will be on show across 65 different art spaces. Admission times vary. $270. Conrad Hotel, Pacific Place, Admiralty. asiacontemporaryart.com
thought about starting your Christmas shopping? Get a head start at this bazaar featuring over 50 stalls selling handmade crafts, jewellery, accessories and books. 9.30am to 5.30pm. Entry $10. The Helena May, 35 Garden Road, Central. helenamay.com
OCT 19
Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour Another weekend, another concert – get ready for some 90s nostalgia and head back to Macau to catch the Backstreet Boys, on the road for their largest world tour in 18 years. 8pm. From $688. Cotai Arena, The Venetian, Macau. venetianmacao.com
OCT 5
Au Soleil Summer Pool Party Celebrate the very best of Hong Kong weather in the warm autumn weather! What’s better for a Sunday than a beautiful outdoor pool, sunshine and chilled drinks? 2-8pm. From $400.
OCT 10
Charity Bazaar We know it’s only September, but have your
Got an event? We can publish the details. Email editorial@hongkongliving.com
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news
Lantau gets shipshape
Formerly known as Discovery Bay Marina Club, the Lantau Yacht Club has been undergoing major updates and renovations since early 2019. The works are due to be completed in the second half of 2020. During the renovation period, the club evicted more than 150 families living on houseboats and has recently
Farewell Prada Italian fashion house Prada will close its flagship store when the seven-year lease expires in June 2020, according to landlord Early Light Group. This decision comes after a fall in shoppers’ foot traffic over recent months. Prada currently pays $9 million in monthly rent for the 15,000 square foot store at Plaza 2000 in Russell Street, Causeway Bay. Francis Choi Chee Ming, toy billionaire and owner of the Early Light Group is said to be offering a 44 percent cut in rent taking the monthly rent down to $5 million. This follows on from the 2016 closure of Prada’s 3,000 square foot boutique within the Peninsula Hotel. The cosmetics brand Bonjour will also be vacating its 3,000 square foot premises this coming November.
Pollution ponderings Hong Kong’s pollution records reached serious levels last month, with the Environmental Protection Department advising residents to reduce or avoid outdoor activities. The city is no stranger to pollution, but with the typhoon season upon us, the levels are set to rise even further, with a percentage of pollution being blown from overseas. Residents can track Hong Kong’s air quality via apps including Air Matter’s and invest in air purifiers to help combat pollution in the home.
Don’t get in a flap Hong Kong’s biggest annual music and arts festival, Clockenflap, has announced an impressive lineup. Back for the 12th year, confirmed artists include London-based indie giants Mumford & Sons, US singer-songwriter Halsey, controversial rapper Lil Pump and British band The Kooks, with many more names to be announced. This year, the festival will take place from November 22-24 at Central Harbourfront. On the door tickets start from $970 for a one-day pass and $1,640 for threedays while 12’s go free. clockenflap.com
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announced 150 slips ranging from 10 to 60 metres, including 13 berths for accommodating superyachts up to 100 metres. The new marina will be the first marina in Hong Kong to cater to superyachts over 80 metres. Membership to the Lantau Yacht Club and Marina is offered by invitation only. lantauyachtclub.com
in your backyard
Disney castle set to tower
September brings Sephora Popular French make-up retailer Sephora is set to return to Hong Kong this month following a 10-year absence from the city. The beauty giant has revealed that it will open eight Hong Kong locations in the coming months. The first is a 4,200 square foot store at IFC mall in Central, the grand opening will take place on September 3. sephora.hk
The iconic castle at Hong Kong Disneyland has been undergoing a dramatic transformation since January last year. While guests of the beloved theme park have played witness to the ongoing work, Disney has revealed that the towers and spires, representing 13 stories of beloved Disney princesses and heroines have been lifted onto the castle base. Each
tower is inspired by the stories of much-loved Disney princesses including Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and Anna and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen. The park is yet to announce the official date for the unveiling of the new castle but we already have our cameras ready! Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, Penny’s Bay, Lantau Island. hongkongdisneyland.com
Kitting out the kids Free parking at Stanley Plaza Every Monday to Wednesday until September 30, drivers can enjoy special parking promotions at Stanley Plaza, in their flash car parking promotion. Visitors of the popular waterfront location can enjoy four hours free parking and a $100 Shell Gift Voucher when spending $200 or more via electronic payment including credit card, Octopus and EPS at designated shops in Stanley Plaza and Murray House. Drivers can redeem their vouchers and parking discount by presenting a same-day printed receipt at the Customer Service Counter, located on the first floor. Coupons are available on a first-come, firstserved basis while stock lasts. stanleyplaza.com
Retykle will host a new pop-up from September 2 to 7. Hundreds of preloved and new discounted designer kids items will be for sale at their 5,000 square foot studio in Wong Chuk Hang. All online items will be available to view and visitors will have the chance to take part in eco-crafts, seller discounts, brand previews, Halloween costume swap, model search photos and sign up, book swaps and more. Sept 2-7, 10am-6pm. 8/F, 44 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Sing Teck Building, Wong Chuk Hang. retykle.com
Making a splash
Dragon-i are working with KidsDressSmart (KiDS) to host a pop-up in aid of Splash Foundation. Until September 8, for every lunch package ordered, Dragon-i will donate 10 percent of proceeds to Splash Foundation. Lunch packages include all you can eat dim sum with Chinese tea starting from $238 and a children’s package from $138. They will also be hosting a pop-up in their exclusive lounge on September 7 and 8, featuring designer kids’ clothing including Armani, Bonpoint, Jacadi and Petit Bateau at up to 90 percent off. Parents can bring along clothes their kids no longer need. 60 percent of sales will benefit Splash Foundation, Hong Kong’s only charitable organisation that teaches kids from low-income families how to swim. September 7 and 8, 10.30am-4.30pm. Dragon-i, 60 Wyndham Street, Central. dragon-i.com.hk
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must haves this month
Redecorating kids bedrooms - made easy
Stokke Sleepi Bed $7,990 from Mothercare mothercare.com.hk
Vitra Eames Elephant Mini Sculpture $940 from Lane Crawford lanecrawford.com.hk
Lifetime NamePlate - Themed $960 from Lifetime Kidsroom tavolokidsliving.com
Kawaii Rabbit Wall Clock $648 from Decoylab etsy.com
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Smila Blomma $99 from IKEA ikea.com.hk
Donna Wilson Bear Throw $3,500 from Lane Crawford lanecrawford.com.hk
child’s play
Bus Bunk Bed $14,000 from kidniture kidniture.com
Lorena Canals Puffy Dream Blue $2090 from Baby Central babycentral.com.hk
Signed Art Print from Hong Kong from A to Z $450 by Assia Bennani minifab.com.hk
Ugo Desk $9680 from Okamura tavolokidsliving.com
Babyletto Spruce Tree Bookcase $1,950 by Babyletto babycentral.com.hk
Label multipack $299 from Veryverysticky veryverysticky.com
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local
New life on The Peak Everything you need to know about the new Peak Galleria mall. By Charmaine Ng
A
fter a two and a half year wait, Peak Galleria is up and running again with a fresh new look. August saw the soft opening of the iconic Galleria, owned by Hang Lung Properties, which has undergone a redesign and modernisation programme. The main entrance of the mall has been turned into a giant glass façade, while the Galleria itself will be home to numerous local and international brands, many of which are making their Hong Kong debut.
Gleaming new architecture The giant gem-like exterior of the main entrance is the most visually enticing feature of the renovated design; the curved, all-glass curtain wall has been designed to let natural light into the atrium, bringing the outdoors inside and washing the mall with warmth. Despite the stunning 360 degree views from The Peak of Hong Kong’s skyline, Victoria Harbour and outlying islands (on a clear day!), the revamped Galleria is already becoming an Instagram-worthy destination in its own right.
Selection of brands The Galleria’s 12,500 square metres will welcome more than 60 shopping and dining brands. From America’s famous Build-a-Bear Workshop to popular Taiwanese cultural
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and creative brand, Wooderful Life, there’s something for every shopper. Diners looking for a taste of celebrity-grade cuisine can head over to Rajasthan Rifles, managed by the head chef of the Michelin-starred New Punjab Club, whilst those with a sweet tooth (or with kids in tow!) can visit Mina House, which serves freeflow dessert alongside an all-day dining menu.
Currently, only a handful of stores have opened their doors, but each day sees more openings. Hang Lung Properties’ Director in Leasing & Management, Ms. Bella Chhoa shares, “Peak Galleria will be re-opened in phases beginning in August this year, with its grand opening following in the fourth quarter.” We look forward to seeing more of what’s to come! Peak Galleria, 118 Peak Road, The Peak. facebook.com/hkpeakgalleria Got a local story? Have your say by emailing editorial@hongkongliving.com
Look out for: •
Monopoly Dreams, the world’s first Monopoly-themed pavilion
•
Candylicious candy store from Singapore
•
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar by Gordon Ramsay
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37 Steakhouse and Bar from Japan
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Cow Cow Kitchen by Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory from Japan
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five minutes with
5 minutes with Ronald
Po
Charmaine Ng meets the Founder of Capstone Educational Group Back in 2003, I was working for an airline when SARS hit the travel industry hard. With mandatory leave every month, I decided to tutor in my free time.
Students prefer to know the purpose behind their learning and to do so in an environment where they are encouraged and expected to speak up.
Rather than just being a private tutor, I registered a company, created a website and branded myself. Thanks to Google AdWords, I signed up a few clients and from there, Capstone grew.
Local school students know how to work hard and stay focused, while international school students know how to speak up with confidence. Melding those skills across the two types of schools would be a great start.
Almost one-third of Hong Kong’s official debate team are current or former Capstone debate students.
My sense of humour is my secret, it disarms students and keeps them listening.
Known as the “Capstone Core”, critical thinking, applied thinking and communication skills are the key components of every ongoing course at Capstone.
My biggest “what if” in life, is not studying law. Back when I was a student, I was intimidated by the prospect of having to read too many books. Now, I wonder to myself if I would have been able to make it as a barrister.
Ironically, I was never a big fan of pure academic learning. I have always been interested in materialising ideas. I would like to minimise the test-centric mindset of students. That perspective has made students see learning as transactional and based wholly on their grades.
Debating is incredible for students’ development. It gives them the confidence to speak up and to do so in an organised, impactful way. Students learn to be quick-witted through argumentation, more empathetic from arguing multiple viewpoints and more aware as they learn about issues that touch on society.
We train students for competitions and bring them to compete worldwide. Consistently, Capstone students achieve numerous awards in prominent public speaking and debating competitions.
Capstone Educational Group 2/F, One Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay. 2893 6060 capstoneprep.com
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cover story
Your guide to Stanley Charmaine Ng explores the popular coastal town and seaside village
S
tanley is a beautiful neighbourhood with a picturesque promenade that attracts a healthy number of local and overseas visitors. Find your way around this seaside destination with our handy guide.
What to eat… The Boathouse
Credit: illustration by Mia Barrell
This three-storey restaurant overlooking Stanley Bay is one of the most popular restaurants in the neighbourhood. The Boathouse is known for its fresh seafood served in a comfortable restaurant setting with casual decor. Its international à la carte menu covers every type of food imaginable, from refreshing salads to tandoori swordfish and barbecue baby back ribs. If you’re up for a drink, The Spinnaker’s Bar on the ground floor offers a comprehensive selection of beers, wines and cocktails. 86-88 Stanley Main Street. cafedecogroup.com
Henry’s Previously known as Lucy’s, former chef Henry Kwan took over the restaurant in 2017 when the original owner, Lucy, returned to England. The restaurant has racked up star reviews since its initial opening in 1994 and serves up dishes from cuisines all around the world. Customer favourites include the salmon fishcakes and pecan pudding. Mmmm! 64 Stanley Main Street. Facebook: Henry’s Restaurant Hong Kong
Chung’s Cuisine If you’re hankering for a bit of Chinese food, then you can’t go wrong with Chung’s Cuisine. Located on the third floor of Stanley Plaza, this restaurant features classic Cantonese cuisine with northern China influences. All branches of Chung’s Cuisine adopts the principles of the ‘three waivers’ – tea charge, seasoning charge
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and service charge are waived – so do leave a tip if you have a good experience. Shop 308, 3/F, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road. taoheung.com.hk
Classified Well-known café chain Classified offers a casual dining experience serving modern food for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between. The location in Stanley is perfect for pet owners with abundant outdoor seating. Cool down after a long day of exploring the neighbourhood with one of their many smoothie concoctions like the intriguing Unicorn Blood drink, a blend of whey protein, organic chia seeds, watermelon juice, strawberries, banana, ginger and lime juice. Shop G08A, G/F, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road, Stanley. classifiedfood.com
stanley Waffleman
Credit: illustration by Mia Barrell
Don’t leave Stanley without having tried a sweet treat from Waffleman. End your meal with mouthwatering Belgium waffles served alongside a scoop of ice cream. It’s not just waffles, though – the dessert spot also offers brownies and cheesecakes to go along with your ice cream flavour of choice. And if you’re feeling thirsty, we suggest trying out their huge selection of drinks, which includes a large variety of sundae milkshakes, lemon sodas, lemon teas and coffeebased chillers. Shop 407, 4/F, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road. Facebook: Waffleman HK
H&M
What to buy…
H&M is everywhere in Hong Kong – including Stanley, where you’ll find a massive store. It occupies three floors in Murray House and offers trendy clothing, swimwear, accessories and shoes for you to browse through when you’re done exploring the rest of Stanley. G/F-2/F, Murray House. hm.com
A&M US Groceries
Ruff & Fetch
Are you missing home? Or perhaps you just want to check out the giant bags of crisps that they have in the US? Head over to A&M US Groceries, where you can browse through endless aisles of products imported directly from America. The large supermarket stocks everything from home cleaning products to boxes of energy bars and protein shakes. Buy in convenience or buy in bulk – the choice is yours! Shop 209, 2/F, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road. anmstores.com
Located on the third floor of Stanley Plaza, Ruff & Fetch is the place to go for anything pet-related. The pet shop offers a wide range of services for your kitty or puppy, including a pet hotel, grooming service, a pet-friendly restaurant, an online shop and the ‘Ruff-pack’, a monthly subscription box that comes with handpicked toys, treats, supplements. All you need to do is to fill out a simple questionnaire on their website and you’ll be showered with fun pet products every
month! Shop 320, 3/F, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road. ruffandfetch.com
Stanley Market Of course, no visit to Stanley is complete without a visit to Stanley Market. It’s definitely more fun to shop around here than in the shopping malls because of the bustling atmosphere. If you’re looking for Hong Kong-themed souvenirs in the form of embroidered tablecloths, paintings, fun t-shirts and more, you’ve come to the right place. Here are three shops for you to check out in the rain-sheltered labyrinth!
inside stanley market Roadbrook Come here for… outdoor clothing and bags Mr Sham, who calls himself Sam (“Like Sam Sham but different!”), has been selling miscellaneous goods in Stanley Market for 47 years. The economy was booming when he first set up shop, and business was so good that he had to hire a second person to help with overflowing customers on busy days. Back then, his main customers were westerners who lived in Hong Kong, sent in during the colonial era of the city. Today, many of them have either moved on to Singapore or returned to their home countries. “Sometimes my old customers still come back to visit me,” says Mr Sham. 8A Stanley Main Street, Stanley. 2403 1887
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cover story distance, there’s no better place. Stanley Beach Road
St Stephen’s Beach Head south from Stanley village and you’ll arrive at St Stephen’s Beach, a secluded beach close to St. Stephen’s College Preparatory School. Just like Stanley Main Beach, it has several barbecue pits and other basic facilities, but what sets St Stephen’s Beach apart is its Water Sports Centre, where you can rent windsurfing boards and kayaks in summer. The water quality on this beach is rated Grade 1 by the Environmental Protection Department, so remember to clean up after yourselves to keep the water this way! Wong Ma Kok Path.
Stanley Ma Hang Park Ma Hang Park is located near Stanley Promenade and offers a leisurely hike under the shade of Hong Kong’s lush flora. The semi-coastal trail is paved with stroller-friendly boardwalk throughout that leads you through numerous historic sites, such as Pak Tai Temple and Kwun Yum Temple. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way, so bring your camera and snap away! 57 Stanley Main Street, Ma Hang.
Rainbow Hanamoji Come here for… traditional calligraphy At a busy intersection inside Stanley Market, you’ll find Mr Ng propped on a small tabletop, quietly painting away. Mr Ng has been creating calligraphy for over 30 years. He picked Stanley to run his business because it was a popular place for tourists to visit. “Nowadays, though, the economy isn’t so good so there are fewer business opportunities,” he says. “Still, many people still come for my calligraphy – calligraphy is really popular with the Japanese tourists.” 40A, Stanley Main Street. rainbowhanamoji.com
Shop 19 Come here for… fun t-shirts If you’re looking for t-shirts with clever slogans to bring home, then make sure to visit Mr Lau at Shop 19. He has been selling t-shirts and other knick-knacks for almost 40 years in Stanley Market. “It used to be westerners who bought my stuff,” he comments. “But now, it’s mostly young Asian people. Installing the EPS machine also helps,” he points to the small machine in the corner, where lo’ and behold, a pair of Hong Kong girls were making a purchase with his assistant’s help. 19 Stanley Main Street. 2813 8681
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What to do… Stanley Main Beach The most well-known beach in the area, Stanley Main Beach, is easy to access, just a few steps from the market and restaurants in the neighbourhood. The beach is usually packed with crowds soaking up the sun, as well as swimmers and windsurfers battling it out in the waters. If you’re looking for a quick dip within walking
The Lovers’ Terrace at Stanley Plaza Hong Kong has its own love lock bridge too! The Lovers’ Terrace overlooks Stanley on the fourth floor of Stanley Plaza, and its railings offer a spot where you can mark your love with your significant other using a ‘Love Bubble’ from the customer service counter. It’s free of charge, so why not? 4/F, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road. stanleyplaza.com
stanley Playa La Fiesta at Stanley Plaza Immerse yourself in music this summer! Until November, Stanley Plaza is bringing in a series of live shows by local singers and bands at the amphitheatre. September’s show will take place at 3-6pm on Sunday September 8, featuring The Flame, Mukzi And The Island and Clave. Enjoy the show! Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road. stanleyplaza.com
What to see… Murray House Stanley has a fair share of British era treats, such as Murray House. The 60-year-old restored threestorey colonial building was dismantled in 1982 and transplanted from its original site where the Bank of China Tower currently stands to be rebuilt using the same bricks on the Stanley waterfront. It is now revitalised into a shopping centre – albeit
Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum If you’re a history buff, then a visit to the Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum is a must. The museum traces the transformation of the Hong Kong penal system over 170 years, offering a glance into prison life then and now. Located inside the Correctional Services’ Staff Training Institute in Stanley, there are 10 galleries, a mock gallows, two mock cells and a stylised guard tower on top of the building for you to explore all day long. 45 Tung Tau Wan Road.
a very pretty one – and houses many restaurants on the first floor, some of which have grand views across the bay. 96 Stanley Main Street.
Blake Pier Credit: illustration by Mia Barrell
Blake Pier has been through a lot in its lifetime, having been relocated several times before finally settling in Stanley in 2006. Named after Sir Henry Arthur Blake and built in 1900, the pier was originally located in Central, but was demolished in 1965 and transferred to an open-air oval theatre in Morse Park, Wong Tai Sin, where it became an open shelter. Today, it has once again become a pier, and is a popular tourist spot next to Murray House.
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cover story Stanley Military Cemetery Originally constructed during the early colonial period, Stanley Military Cemetery was used for members of the British garrison and their families from 1841 to 1846. On Christmas Day, 1941, Hong Kong fell to the invading Japanese forces. The fight, though brief, was intense and casualties were high. More than 121 prisoners of war are buried here, their graves marked by homemade headstones the prisoners carved themselves. Wong Ma Kok Road.
Tin Hau Temple Over 70 temples are dedicated to Tin Hau in Hong Kong, and one of them you’ll find in Stanley at the western end of Stanley Main Street. The temple was built in 1767 – supposedly by a famous pirate – and despite its age, is quite a modern building
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due to repeated maintenance. Most come to worship the goddess of the sea, but there are also shrines of other deities, including Kwun Yum, Che Kung, Wong Tai Sin, Guandi and Hung Shing. 119 Stanley Main Street.
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arts & culture
Dance your way to Friday
Danielle Tjia pirouettes her way through the week at these after work dance classes
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eptember is the perfect time to learn a new skill and Hong Kong has a surprisingly large selection of dance classes for beginner’s through to those who are pros on their toes. Classes are great for meeting new friends, having fun and getting some exercise. So put your best foot forward and Waltz out of your comfort zone at one of one of these evening dance classes.
After Work Salsa Party If you’re feeling energetic on a Monday night, try out this After Work Salsa Party hosted by Dance with Style at Rula Bula. The class begins with a
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Monday
Salsa lesson and ends with freestyle dancing. The first 45 minutes of the class are without music so that instructions are clearly heard and easy to follow for beginners. During the last 15 minutes, the music is cranked up and it’s freestyle time! At this point, more regulars show up and join in. Review: The club is bright without being overpowering and the relaxing vibe immediately put me at ease. I’d advise getting there on time if you would like to participate in the lesson as it is difficult to join the group after the lesson has begun. When it came to the freestyle dancing, everyone let loose. I’d absolutely recommend this class as a great
activity to kick off the week with a group of friends or even on a first date! Monday evenings, 8.30-9.30pm for the Salsa class, 9.30pm-1.30am for freestyle dancing. Free. Pay for your own drinks. Rula Bula, 58-62 D'Aguilar St, Central. facebook.com/ rulabulalkf
Kizomba at The Artist Kizomba is a style of dance and music which originated in Angola in 1984. The word “Kizomba” means "party" in Kimbundu (an Angolan language). This is a couples dance, taught
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get groovy by experienced dance coach Davis Kiz. This venue is a little smaller and more intimate than Monday’s class but also has a welcoming vibe. During the lesson, students form a circle to learn the basic steps. As the lesson progresses, the class builds on the basic steps. All levels are welcome to attend and the lesson is followed by freestyle dancing.
Review: I managed to pick up the basic steps relatively quickly, mainly due to the clear explanations. The freestyle section was great fun for putting what I had learnt to the test. I found Bachata to be the easiest of the dance styles I tried throughout the week. It was quick to pick up and relatively easy to learn the counting. If you are new to dancing, Bachata may be a great place to start.
Review: People here are kind and nonjudgemental. Kizomba is something I had never tried before and it was fun to learn. This is a very sensual style of dance and one I wholeheartedly recommend.
Wednesdays, 8.30pm till late. Admission is $100 which includes one drink. Mazu, Upper ground Floor, 8-11 Lan Kwai Fong, Central. facebook.com/MazuLKF
Tuesday evenings from 9pm. Admission is $100, which includes one drink. The Artist, Shop G4, Fashion Walk, 9 Kingston Street, Causeway Bay. mrtheartist.com
Not only does Picada have amazing guacamole, it also hosts a fantastic Salsa night every Thursday. The class begins with a 45 minute lesson by Franky ‘The Salsaman’ Wong during which beginner’s can learn the basic steps of Bachata and Salsa. The lesson is held inside the restaurant or on the terrace, depending on the weather. After the class, there is time to practice your steps during a freestyle dance session or feel free to sit back and enjoy the music.
Bachata at Mazu Bachata is a cheerful and fun style of dance that originated in the Dominican Republic. The basic dance sequence is performed to an eight series movement sequence, within a square. Mazu offer a private room for the lesson and the teacher, Shirley instructs her class to form a circle around her so that she and her partner can demonstrate the basic steps. During the hour-long lesson, the class familiarise themselves with the movements and afterwards there is time to practice freestyle.
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Shirley teaching Bachata at Mazu
Salsa at Picada
Thursday
Review: This was the most casual and lively atmosphere of all the classes I tried out. The atmosphere was young and carefree and I felt very comfortable dancing, I loved the music and would absolutely go here again for a casual dance on a Thursday.
Shirley Kent
Thursday evenings, 8.30pm till late. Admission is $100, which includes one drink. Picada, 2/F, LKF 29, 29 Wyndham Street, Central. picada-hk.com
Friday
Freestyle Friday It’s Friday, you made it! Time to shimmy on into the weekend.
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life & style
Soho House opens its doors in Hong Kong
Soho House by floor
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Becky Love explores Hong Kong’s newest social club
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his month sees the opening of Hong Kong’s highly anticipated Soho House, located within a 28-storey skyscraper in the heart of Sheung Wan with views over Victoria Harbour and Victoria Peak. Founded by CEO Nick Jones in 1995, Soho House has grown to include locations in the UK, Europe, North America and Asia and is a space developed for like-minded creatives. The house in our city differs from others around the globe in that the interior is inspired by Hong Kong’s culture, with patterns and fabrics echoing life right outside its doors. Indoors, Soho House pulls out all the stops with a pool room, drawing room, house brasserie, private dining rooms, three floors for the Soho Gym and nine floors of Soho Works which provide work spaces and meeting rooms for members. The member events programme will include everything from music, film, fashion, art, design and wellness. With a locally inspired menu which includes siu mei and dim sum, Soho House will make for a wonderful cultural and creative focal point within our city. Soho House Hong Kong, 22 Des Voeux Road West, Sheung Wan. sohohousehongkong.com
Floor 30: The Pool Room is designed with an outdoor feel, with plants, rattan furniture and daybeds, plus a central swim-up bar.
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Floor 29: The main members’ bar and club space. This floor also has a stage which will be used for karaoke nights.
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Floor 28: The House Brasserie has reclaimed wooden floors, embossed ceiling tiles and rich leathers. Nick Jones, CEO of Soho House
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Floor 27: The Drawing Room has a light and fresh Hong Kong contemporary style and can be closed off for events. Floor 26: There are two event spaces; a private dining room and a function room, both equipped with marble top bars to serve signature House drinks. There is also a stage for members’ events.
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Floor 25: Boasts three more events spaces; a pre-events bar and large function space.
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Rendering of Soho House lobby
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taste the moon
Shoot for the moon Craving something different? Charmaine Ng offers a taster of this year’s mooncake offerings The Peninsula For the egg The Peninsula’s mini egg custard mooncakes are one custard lover of Hong Kong’s most sought-after seasonal delights. This year’s mooncakes, conceptualised by Michelinstarred Chef Tang Chi Keung, features two new mini egg custard flavours – walnut and dried longan – presented in the keepsake Star Chef Moon Gazing Gift Box. Take your pick from 12 selections of gift boxes that highlight Chef Tang’s new creations plus a range of alluring options from speciality tea-flavoured editions to chocolate mooncakes this autumn. $388 for a box of eight mini mooncakes. peninsulaboutique.com
The Landmark Mandarin Oriental This autumn, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental is offering For the environment- an innovative take on the traditional mooncake to alist celebrate the upcoming holiday. The mooncakes will be infused with delicate vanilla custard and packaged with an intricately custom-designed gift box inspired by the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Amber. The gift box, characterised by a strikingly refined gold design, is made using eco-friendly material and can become an ideal storage space for other items such as fine jewellery after the holiday. $398 for a box of six mini mooncakes. mandarinoriental.com
Langham Hospitality Group This September sees the debut of Ming Mooncakes, an exclusively curated selection of delicacies crafted by Langham Hospitality Group’s Michelin-starred Chinese restaurants. Ming Mooncakes will feature the Mini Custard with Egg Yolk Mooncake and the new, slightly more tart Mini Custard with Egg Yolk and Kumquat Mooncake presented in a vibrant collector’s box with illustrations by Hong Kong artist Vivian Ho. The artwork on the box presents scenes of happy family gatherings with accents of traditional festive elements, which the artist hopes will encourage more exchanges of stories between the young and old. The beautiful drawings are sure to reignite and bring to life childhood stories of Mid-Autumn Festival. $388 for a box of six mini mooncakes. mingmooncake.com
For nostalgia
Fortnum & Mason Sold exclusively at Lane Crawford, Fortnum & Mason’s For the traditionalist debut mooncake gift box is sure to be a delight. The
The Mira This season, The Mira’s Michelin-recommended contemporary Chinese restaurant, Cuisine Cuisine, introduces two new enticing mooncake selections: the first, a deluxe set of traditional white lotus seed mooncakes produced in limited quantities; and the second, a new collection of mini mooncakes infused with four modern flavours. Choose from the Rose Purée and Roselle Egg Custard Mini Mooncake, the Cumquat Purée and Mandarin Peel Mini Mooncake, the Black Sesame Purée Mini Mooncake and the highly popular Egg Custard Mini Mooncake. $468 for a box of eight mini mooncakes. themirahotel.com
For a bit of everything
upmarket department store in London is the ultimate destination for unique gifts such as hampers, elegant wines and spirits, famous teas and coffees – and now, as Hong Kong prepares to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival, Fortnum’s is proud to introduce its first limited edition mooncake. Made with premium top grade lotus seeds, pure peanut oil and two golden salted egg yolks, then sealed inside a jade green celadon packaging design, Fortnum’s Traditional Mooncake will impress even the toughest of critics. $520 for a box of four mooncakes. Available at all Lane Crawford locations across Hong Kong. lanecrawford.com
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taste the moon A-1 Bakery x PEANUTS For a playful take on Mid-Autumn Festival, check out this year’s mooncake collaboration between A1 Bakery and PEANUTS. The packaging has been transformed into an illuminating lantern that projects Snoopy’s face – hours of fun for the kids! Inside, you’ll find four innovative flavours: black sesame, purple potato, earl grey and tiramisu. The mooncake collection also comes with a ‘Snoopy Membership Card’ that will give you year-round exclusive discounts and benefits for A1 Bakery’s delicious products. $210 for a box of four mooncakes. vip.a-1bakery.com.hk
For the kid in you
2/3 Dolci Autumn in Hong Kong is only called autumn – in reality, it still feels like summer, with the heat and humidity remaining at an all-time high. If you find yourself perpetually covered in sweat, make a pit stop at any of Cafe Deco Group’s restaurants and grab a bite of their gelato mooncakes. This year, the group is offering six flavours of (literal) melt-in-your-mouth cake treats, all encrusted in sumptuous 64% Belgian dark chocolate. It’s a cream come true. $328 for a box of six mooncakes. Order at designated Cafe Deco Group restaurants. facebook.com/2thirddolci
For The Ice Cream Enthusiast
Hyatt Regency With it’s oozing, sweet egg custard filling, the lava custard bun is hands down the best thing on the menu at a dim sum restaurant. Commemorate your love for dim sum this year and celebrate the season with the Joyous Discovery Assorted Mooncake Gift Box by The Chinese Restaurant at Hyatt Regency. The two-tier designer gift box includes the Mini Red Bean Paste Mooncake with Rose, a customer favourite with an elegant floral hint, and the Mini Lava Custard Mooncake, a perfectly harmonised combination of premium French butter crust and delicate custard filling – the spotlight landing on the silky and luscious egg yolk bursting out from within. Mmmm… $398 for a box of eight mini mooncakes. hyatt.com
For the dim sum fanatic
The St. Regis Hong Kong For a luxury touch
Dynasty Garden Known for its classic Cantonese cuisine with innovative flourishes, Dynasty Garden uses only premium produce and serves seasonal specialities, with more than 600 wines to pair. This autumn, the restaurant is offering a limited-edition collection of three signature mooncake flavours in an elegant gift box crafted by Hong Kong designer Alan Chan. The gift box comprises two traditional mooncakes using white lotus seed paste from Hunan, each embellished with double egg yolks; and four mini mooncakes, featuring tempting alternative fillings of egg custard. $398 for a box of two mooncakes and four mini mooncakes. dining.gfgc.com.hk
For a Cantonese touch
For the perfect Mid-Autumn Festival gift, recently opened St. Regis Hong Kong celebrates its first annual mooncake launch with three limited edition mooncake boxes. Classic mooncakes are presented in the Full Moon Box featuring white lotus seed paste and golden salty duck egg yolks and the Pearl Moon Box containing mini aromatic sweet red beans and tangerine peel. For an alternative to the traditional mooncake, mini mooncakes encasing a smooth custard filling are presented in the Bright Moon Box. True festive delights. $518 for a box of four mooncakes. stregis.com
For your furry friend
SPCA
Who says pets can’t join in on the mooncake fun? This year, SPCA has partnered with Petisserie Bakery to create a range of flavours for both cats and dogs. Choices include free-range chicken with goat cheese, wild-caught salmon with sweet potato and French duck breast with pumpkin. All proceeds go to SPCA. If you’re feeling extra generous this holiday season, you can even order mooncakes that are donated straight to SPCA homing animals. $98 for a box of two pet mooncakes. spcahk.org
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nibbles
Nibbles News from the dining scene Mediterranean mix up Ocean Rock Seafood & Tapas have introduced a new semi-buffet weekend brunch showcasing the flavours of the Mediterranean. The brunch includes a huge selection of dishes and cuisines from Zarzuela de Marisco yi Lobster to Grilled Whole Lemon Sole from Greece. The buffet starts at $338 and is available until September 22. Shop 102, 1/F, Murray House, Stanley. Facebook: oceanrockhk
Neptune’s Restaurant revamp Ocean Park’s Neptune’s Restaurant is an iconic part of the park, allowing guests to dine in the company of over 100 marine species in the aquarium. The restaurant recently reopened with a new theme and tasting menu, which brings together the very best of nature and fine dining by using sustainable seafood in accordance with the Park’s vision for ecological conservation and promotion of sustainable dining. Ocean Park, Aberdeen. oceanpark.com.hk
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New meat(ing) spot opens in Repulse Bay A new butchers, Heritage Meats has joined the Southside scene, serving up a selection of rare and wild meats, bone broths and artisanal cheeses. All meats are stored in a dry ageing fridge. Don’t leave your furry friend out of the fun, they also supply Heritage Meats for pets! Shop 102/103, The Repulse Bay, 109 Repulse Bay Road. heritagemeats.com.hk
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home & living
Sally Andersen, Founder of Hong Kong Dog Rescue
Lend a hand Your complete guide to volunteering in Hong Kong. By Becky Love
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f you want to lend a hand to those in need, Hong Kong has an abundance of charities who will gladly accept whatever spare time or money you have to give. Like anywhere else in the world, it’s simply a case of identifying a cause close to your heart and getting in touch. Here’s how to get involved.
Animals Asia Most famous for its campaign to end bear bile farming in China and Vietnam, Animals Asia also concerns itself with the welfare of other animals including dogs, cats and those in zoos and safari parks. Volunteers can help out with office work or get involved in projects such as Dr Dog and Professor Paws. animalsasia.org
Enlighten Volunteers are integral to a charity and Enlighten – Action for Epilepsy is no different. The charity, which is dedicated to supporting epilepsy sufferers in Hong Kong and removing the stigma surrounding the condition, is in constant need
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of volunteers to help with epilepsy awareness booths and with general office work as well as requiring professionals such as photographers, video producers, editors, translators and proof-readers, who can volunteer their time and services. enlightenhk.org
where to volunteer Food Angel The program rescues edible surplus food that would otherwise end up in the bin from different sectors of the food industry. These items are then turned into nutritious hot meals and redistributed to underprivileged communities. You don’t have to be a master chef to get involved – individuals and groups are needed on an ad hoc basis to help prepare the meal boxes. foodangel.org.hk
Hands on Hong Kong
Hong Kong Dog Rescue
Not sure what you want to commit to or even if you have the time to volunteer regularly? Hands on HK has done all the legwork for you by finding and scheduling dozens of volunteering opportunities each month, enabling you to help with high-impact projects at nonprofits, schools and other organisations. Jobs include serving hot meals to underprivileged families and delivering daily necessities to the homeless. handsonhongkong.org
A local dog charity that has been helping dogs find homes since 2003. Based in Ap Lei Chau and Tai Po the charity is always looking for volunteers to help walk and take care of the dogs. You may even come home with a furry friend yourself! Shop A, G/F, 5 Wai Fung Street, Ap Lei Chau. hongkongdogrescue.com
Feeding Hong Kong According to Feeding Hong Kong, around 3,400 tonnes of food waste are sent to landfills in Hong Kong every day, while one million people struggle to afford nutritious meals. Feeding Hong Kong links food companies and charities to redistribute surplus food from where it is plentiful, to where there is a need. Individual volunteers over 18 are needed to help out with delivery, office and warehouse duties; groups of all ages can take part in the weekly Bread Run. feedinghk.org
Kely Support Group
Kely Support Group This bilingual NGO offers support to young people in Hong Kong aged between 14 and 24. It aims to equip them with life skills and resilience and empower them to reach their full potential. Programmes focus on knowledge, resistance and harm reduction around drug and alcohol misuse. Volunteers can get involved in programme planning and implementation, workshops, events and admin work. kely.org
Impact HK
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where to volunteer Mother’s Choice Well-known local charity Mother’s Choice was set up to help pregnant teenagers and babies/ children without families. Apart from needing loving families to adopt and foster children, the charity are frequently on the lookout for volunteer photographer/videographers, graphic designers, admin assistants, translators and child care assistants. Mother’s Choice also hosts regular volunteer sessions so you can find out exactly what they do and how you can help. motherschoice.org
Operation Santa Claus Organised jointly by the South China Morning Post and Radio Television Hong Kong, this annual charity campaign, held throughout December, gets corporations, clubs, schools and individual donors to demonstrate their compassion by staging creative fundraising initiatives for each year’s specially selected deserving causes. osc.scmp.com
Splash Splash conducts swim and water safety courses for under-served communities like domestic helpers, who may not have the access or means for swimming lessons. The foundation offers volunteers flexibility and it doesn’t matter if you don’t have prior swim coaching experience as Splash provides training. Volunteers are also needed for admin duties, fundraising and other fun projects. splashfoundation.org
Po Leung Kuk Po Leung Kuk is best known for offering help and support to orphans and underprivileged families. It provides a variety of services for which it always needs volunteers, such as childcare, homework guidance, domestic cleaning/maintenance and visits to service units including day centres for the elderly. The charity also accepts drop-off donations of unwanted wearable clothing, electrical appliances, computers, stationery, toys, baby items, household accessories and cookware. poleungkuk.org.hk/en
Kids4Kids
Kids4Kids
Box of Hope
This Hong Kong NGO encourages children to find their voice, take action and make an impact on community issues. Children as young as eight can get involved in community literacy programs by signing up with their families to be voluntary storytellers; teens (13-17 years) are encouraged to submit their own proposals for community action projects or become part of a youth leadership team. Adult and corporate volunteers are also welcome to help out with various tasks such as project planning and implementation, youth empowerment, workshops and event management, and daily admin work. kids4kids.org.hk
This annual Christmas initiative which typically involves schools, teaches Hong Kong children the gift of giving by encouraging them to each fill a decorated shoebox with a number of small items that are useful, educational and fun. These boxes are then distributed to children in need across Hong Kong and Asia. Volunteers are also needed for a variety of jobs, notably checking, packing and labelling boxes before they are shipped off. boxofhope.org
Impact HK Impact HK is all about making a difference to Hong Kong’s homeless and its Kindness Walks are an easy way for anyone to get involved. These involve volunteers walking around a particular area, distributing clothing, bedding, toiletries, free laundry tickets and food to people living on the streets. Older children are welcome to join too although the walks are in the evenings. impacthk.org
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outdoors
Where to go stargazing this Mid-Autumn Festival. By Jeramy Lee
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starry night
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ong Kong is famous for its cityscape, but it’s starscape is equally as beautiful. While many believe Hong Kong is lacking in stars, we believe you’ve just got to know where to look. Midautumn is the perfect time to marvel at these diamonds in the sky. Here are some of the best spots.
High Island Reservoir Lie on soft sand, listen to the soothing sounds of the water lapping the shore and enjoy a panoramic view of the Milky Way above. Yes, this is as romantic as it sounds! The High Island Reservoir in Sai Kung is a great spot for an unobstructed view of the stars. Pack a beach mat and a cooler bag for drinks to keep you refreshed. How to get there: From Sai Kung Town, take a green taxi to the East Dam (around $130), or if the timing is right, hop on the 94 bus to Pak Tam Chung. Alight and walk to Sai Kung Man Yee Road. From here, the walk down to the dam is around two hours.
The Astropark For avid stargazers the Astropark, located in Sai Kung East Country Park, is well worth the journey. Open 24 hours, the park is just a 10-minute walk from Chong Hing Water Sports Centre. Telescopes, binoculars and star dials are available. If you’d like to bring your own telescope, you can apply in advance for a power supply. You can also stay the night at the sports centre – book ahead and borrow camping equipment for free.
credit: Kelvin Yuen
How to get there: From Sai Kung Town, take a taxi or KMB bus 94 to the Astropark. Register as a camper with the sports centre beforehand to take the free shuttle bus from Sai Kung Tang Shiu Kin Sports Ground. Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. lcsd.gov.hk
High Island Reservoir
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outdoors The Hong Kong Space Museum
The stars still shine, even when it rains. If the weather isn’t on your side head to the Hong Kong Space Museum for an indoor extraterrestrial experience. In addition to exhibitions, the museum will host astrophotography lectures and astronomy observation sessions until September 15. How to get there: From Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit J, walk towards Salisbury Road. The museum is opposite the Peninsula Hotel. Closed on Tuesdays. 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. lcsd.gov.hk
Cape D’Aguilar Located on the southeastern tip of Hong Kong Island, overlooking the ocean and away from the city lights, Cape D-Aguliar is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and map out the stars. Grab a head torch and hike up during the night for undisturbed views of the sky. Camp overnight and awake to a magnificent sunrise when the day breaks. How to get there: From Shau Kei Wan MTR station, take exit A3 and follow the signs for bus number 9 via via Cape D’Aguilar.
Sai Yuen Camping Adventure Park
Sai Yuen Camping Adventure Park Hong Kong’s outlying islands are the perfect place to escape from the bustling city and enjoy peace, quiet and significantly reduced light pollution. Cheung Chau’s Sai Yuen Farm offers a range of accommodation including stargazing geodesic domes, which allow guests to sleep under the stars. How to get there: Hop aboard the ferry to Cheung Chau at Central Pier 5, the journey takes around 30 minutes on the fast ferry and slightly longer on the slow ferry.
Night photography tips Kowloon Tong resident and photographer, Kelvin Yuen won first prize in the National Geographic International Photo Contest, Taiwan Section’s Youth Division in 2015. He works with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and has collaborated with Green Power, WWF and DJI. Bring the right equipment – a tripod to stabilise the camera for a long exposure, and a lens with an ultra-wide angle (>16mm) and a big aperture (< f/1.8). Set your camera manually – vary the setting according to the situation, but generally use an ISO of 1,600-6,400, a shutter speed of 15-30 seconds and maximum aperture.
credit: Eddie Yip flickr
Do your research – visit the Hong Kong Observatory’s website for weather updates. It’s best to go when the sky is clear, so check the phases of the moon and pick days when moonlight won’t interfere.
Cape D’Aguilar
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Kelvin Yuen
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travel
Travel shifts up a gear Gemma Shaw heads to Taiwan as the country prepares to host one of the world’s most challenging cycle races
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ver the coming weeks, cyclists across the world are gearing up to take part in what has become arguably the most challenging cycling race in Asia. The Taiwan KOM Challenge takes place annually on the last Friday of October. A gruelling 105km route sees riders climb from the seaside town of Hualien Qixingtan on Taiwan’s east coast up through Taroko National Park to the finishing point at Wuling Pass, the 3,275m summit of the highest passable road in Taiwan.
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Amateurs and professionals align at the start point to tackle one of the toughest mountains on the planet. This route has all the elements to test the most experienced of riders, if the heat doesn’t get you the humidity will, if not the humidity, the altitude, or the gradient. Those who complete the climb join a list of cycling elite. Former participants include Tour de France winners Cadel Evans and Vincenzo Nibali, Olympic silver medalist Emma Pooley and former World Tour rider and media star
Phil Gaimon. Entry requirements are simple: Be 16 years old or above, and be capable of finishing the route in 6.5 hours from the official start point (the latter perhaps not so simple for us mere mortals.) This year, Taiwan KOM Challenge will take place on October 25. Former Hong Kong expat and current General Manager of Grand Hyatt Taipei, Jan-Hendrik Meidinger is an amateur cyclist who has been in training for the race over the past few months.
shenzhen pedal power sling We call ourselves “Taiwan Sapiens”. Riding together gives you a sense of belonging. Hong Kong is Taipei on steroids. I want to promote Taiwan as a holiday destination. All the great things Hong Kong has, Taipei has too. Pollution, traffic and overcrowding in Taipei are not as bad as in Hong Kong. From a life, quality point of view, I enjoy living in Taiwan.
Jan-Hendrik Meidinger
Tung Chung. Lantau Peak is commonly referred to as “the beast” in the cycling world. It’s the perfect training ground for Taiwan KOM Challenge if you fancy competing next year. When I lived at The Excelsior I would cycle a 50 km route to Sai Kung and back. Taiwan KOM is one of the most challenging rides in the world. It’s 105km long, the first 20km are flat, the rest is just uphill, until 3,275 metres. When you get to the last 2km you can see the end, that’s always the hardest part. Sign up starts in July for next year’s KOM Challenge. Look at the website for the requirements, there are different qualifications for foreigners. There are around 3,000 slots and they fill up very fast. Qualifier rides for Taiwan KOM Challenge take place in April and June. To prepare I start picking routes that resemble the competition. In this case, just pure climbing, in Taiwan you have mountains everywhere. You meet other cyclists out on the road. You get together and keep riding. We formed a group in Taipei, there are 14 of us.
Taiwan is perfect for a cycling holiday. You can base yourself in Taipei and spend the week exploring the surrounding mountains. Or, you can start here and ride to Kaohsiung. There are cycling operators here in Taipei who will help you get sorted. Come between April and September. Usually from October to January it gets wet, and wetter when you’re up in the mountains, in the cloud. I’ve taken a few of our guests at Grand Hyatt Taipei out cycling, they had a great time. We’ve lived as expats in Asia for many years. In Saigon, Hong Kong, Guam and Taiwan. We travel back to Hong Kong often so the children can visit their friends. There are a number of Asian races on my bucket list. I’m planning to conquer Alishan in Taiwan. ‘Tour of Petang’ is another great race, located off Singapore, near Indonesia. There is also a really tough five day ride in Chiang Mai. You don’t have to be a professional cyclist to take part. To find out more about entering for next year’s race visit taiwankom.org
Sun Moon Lake
Reaching new heights in Taiwan
Get into training Jan-Hendrik Meidinger, General Manager of Grand Hyatt Taipei is training to compete in this year’s KOM Challenge I was the General Manager of The Excelsior in Hong Kong. Cycling became a means to escape the bustle of Causeway Bay and reconnect with nature. Hong Kong is great for cycling. There are some fantastic routes in Ma On Shan and
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travel WHILE IN TAIPEI… STAY Grand Hyatt Taipei The Grand Hyatt Taipei is the city’s first 5-star hotel, built in 1990 and fully renovated in 2014, the hotel is popular with businesstypes due to its location in the heart of the business district. However, as a weekend base from which to explore the city, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better location. The hotel adjoins to the Taipei 101 mall via a connecting walkway and a metro station just three minutes away provides direct access to the city’s underground train system via the Xinyi MRT line. 850 rooms, of which 94 are suites, offer a refreshing mix of contemporary and oriental elements and many boast impressive views on three sides, including an unbeatable view of the Taipei 101 landmark. King-sized beds and generous bathrooms featuring Ferragamo products are standard, as are an in-room Nespresso machine and complimentary water which is generously restocked. Guests staying in Club Rooms have access to the Grand Club Lounge, which offers complimentary buffet-style breakfast and ambient nightly cocktails and canapes. While residential, apartment-style suites on the top floor provide exclusive accommodation and stunning views over the city.
Grand Hyatt stands next to Taipei101
General Manager, Jan-Hendrik Meidinger has overseen the hotel since August 2017. The atmosphere he has created is warm, friendly and personal, an impressive feat for such a large Hyatt property. As a keen cyclist, he has even been known to take guests who show an interest out cycling across the mountainous terrain which surrounds the city. Taipei’s drier climate is quite literally a breath of fresh air for Hong Kongers. Lower humidity
levels provide perfect conditions to enjoy the hotel’s resort-style outdoor heated swimming pool. Club Oasis is an urban fitness centre and exclusive club which offers guests a calming environment in which to relax after a busy day exploring the city. The large gym opens 24-hours catering to those with the urge for a midnight workout. The spa opens daily until 11pm and boasts hot tubs, a cold plunge pool and sauna, steam and relaxation rooms - what better way to wind down for a restful night’s sleep. grandhyatttaipei.com
Why we’d go back • It’s about as close as you can get to Taipei 101 so you can beat the queues and head up to the observation deck on the 89th floor to enjoy virtually undisturbed views while the rest of the city is still stirring. • The resort-style heated swimming pool, cabanas, pool bar and thermal baths offer a relaxing escape from the bustle of city life that many other hotels in the city simply do not have. • The thoughtful touches. Each day we returned to the hotel to find gifts from the in-house bakery, wine and an endless supply of drinking water. • Stunning Views. Did we mention the views? Again, the proximity to Taipei 101 means an incredible nightscape. The hotel also overlooks a lush green park which contributes to a New York-esque vibe. Premier Suite living room
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travel WHILE IN TAIPEI… DO
Japanese and was said to be the inspiration behind the animated film Spirited Away. Now, it’s a maze of lanes and alleyways, the centre of which can become very crowded as busloads of visitors arrive. It’s about a 1.5hour bus ride away from the centre of Taipei.
Taipei 101 Head up to the 89th floor of this architectural landmark for great views, via what was once the Guinness World Record holder for fastest elevator in the world-37 seconds to be precise. taipei-101.com.tw
Elephant Mountain, Xiangshan The hiking trail is steep with lots of steps, but the short route (take a left at the fork) is only 20 minutes of climbing and offers great views of the city, especially at sunset.
Raohe Night Market Much better than your average night market. This one is packed with fantastic food— each stall specialises in something different so ordering is easy and there is lots of variety. Think pork buns, fried squid, spicy sweetcorn, Japanese omelettes, stinky tofu fries, and much more. My favourite were the black pepper pork buns. There’s also a night market at Shilin, though it’s more touristy. Nearest MRT is Songshan Station (both the MRT Green Line 3 and train) - you can get taxis but the MRT is a great, easy-touse way to get around. Buses are trickier.
Ximen
Ximen A really busy area, with lots of lights and people around in the evenings. Plenty of fashion shops (local and international brands) and its own night market—plus some nice bars. Exit 5 or 6 at Ximen MRT Station.
Jiufen
Beitou
This mountain town was built by the
Jiufen
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This thermal hot spring area was developed into a resort under the Japanese. The area around Xinbeitou station is filled with public and private baths, but each may have different rules on etiquette so check before entering. Book a private room in advance to avoid disappointment. We were recommended Beitou Spring City Resort by a friend—take a cab there from Xinbeitou Station.
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pets
Ask a vet... Dr. Pauline Pets Central veterinarian Dr. Pauline Taylor answers your questions. How long can I leave my dogs unattended at home? Sometimes I have to work in the day and I feel so guilty leaving them. Dogs like routine and are usually quite happy with the same routine every day. They also sleep a lot about, around 12-14 hours a day, depending on the breed. They sleep more as they age with senior dogs sleeping for 20+ hours a day. So if you plan their day around your work and stick to it, most of the time you will have happy dogs at home while you toil. You can leave your dogs with some food puzzle toys to break their potential boredom, set music or Doggy TV to come on at certain intervals, use dispensing food bowls programmed to give your dogs intermittent food and most importantly, allow enough time for special time with them which includes exercise and play. On the elimination front, dogs make about 2mls urine/kg an hour and generally defecate twice a day. The size and storage capacity of the bladder varies so if you are out for a long time I suggest you engage a dog walker. If you do all these things don’t feel guilty and enjoy your work and doggy time. My rabbit keeps sneezing when the aircon is on, could she be allergic to something in the air? Yes, she definitely could! Air conditioners and fans circulate air and in doing so can move around allergy-causing agents that trigger allergic reactions leading to sneezing and other nasal signs. Some bunnies may get an allergic reaction from pollen, cigarette smoke, dust, bedding materials, cleaning agents and so on. So it’s probably not advisable to have your bunny near an AC unit as it is very likely to be the cause of her sneezes. With so many pet food brands out there I don’t know what the best option is. What are some ingredients I should be avoiding? Your dog needs a complete and balanced diet comprising of mainly ANIMAL-BASED PROTEIN to support healthy tissue and muscles poultry, fish, meat, rabbit, eggs should be equal to at least 18 percent of an adults’ diet and 22 percent minimum for pups. FAT as an energy source should be at least five percent for adults and eight percent for pups and FIBRE up to five percent to boost digestion. Your dogs’ diet has no specific requirement for CARBOHYDRATES as dogs have a limited ability to digest plant products. You should learn to read the label of any food you buy and avoid carbohydrate-heavy foods such as corn and wheat products; avoid animal-by products instead of the meat itself including meat and bone products, tendon, or offal; avoid plant proteinssoya or cornmeal, artificial colours, flavours and preservatives. Once you get the hang of recognising these usually cheaper ingredients, the “right” brands to buy will become more obvious. Good luck!
Got a question for Dr. Pauline? Email editorial@hongkongliving.com 48 | SOUTHSIDE.HK
woof
Walkies Lung Ha Wan Country Trail with Florence Clifford and Rex the dog From Sai Kung, take a taxi (with pooches in tow) or minibus 16 to Po Toi O, alighting at Tai Au Mun Road. Walk 2.5km on the flat to Lung Ha Wan Road and follow it until the start of the trail. It’s a long, breathless climb up some fairly steep stairs, but you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with stunning views from the summit: beautiful country parkland for 360 degrees, rolling green hills, the sea glittering in the sunshine and vivid green islands across the water. About half an hour into the hike you’ll reach the main peak, Tai Leng Tung, at 291m above sea level. Further up the trail, you’ll come across a lookout at another high point with views of Port Shelter and islands all across Clearwater Bay. On the other side of the mountain, the descent is a lot shorter and less arduous. The full hike is 2.3km and takes roughly two hours to complete, but it’ll probably take a bit longer with breaks for photo opportunities - if this view isn’t Instagrammable, I don’t know
what is! In the past, the area was even used as a shooting location for many in the film industry, and it’s easy to see why. The hike isn’t too strenuous, but be prepared to climb a lot of stairs. Most of the trail doesn’t have much tree canopy to shelter underneath and as we all know, Hong Kong sunshine is punishing even with layers of factor 50 slapped on, so maybe wait for slightly cooler
ex
R weather. It’s not overly long and the trail follows a stone path most of the way, so the ground isn’t too uneven, making it a good hike to do with kids. At the end of the hike, hail a cab or walk for another 20 minutes to the Clearwater Bay Country Park bus stop - or you could drop by the Lung Ha Wan Picnic Site for a welldeserved pit stop.
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zim city
Before
Where have all the railings gone? Paul Zimmerman on why the Government should keep Hong Kong railing free
U
nder the title “Walk in HK” government is conducting studies to enhance walkability. The objective is to encourage people to walk more, ride less, and to walk the first and last mile connecting with public transport. It is not just a transport policy, but integral to tackling climate change, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and promoting local economies. Central and Sham Shui Po are selected to test measures and showcase new strategies. You can participate in lively debates held with large maps, pens and stickers. Critical is redistribution of the space available between the walls and site boundaries of properties aligning our streets. How much of the space is used for footways and how much for carriageways? Which type of vehicle and at what time of the day can they use the road space? How can pedestrians, cyclists, cart pushers, drivers safely share and navigate the space available? Another key measure is to “Reduce clutter by removing suitable street furniture and signs to make more space for pedestrians.” Some signs can easily be removed, including 24 hours no stopping restriction signs and “vehicle waiting will
be prosecuted” signs. Road signs can be combined with lamp posts, an idea which we promoted in the Southern District Council since 2013. In many places, guard rails can be removed to make more space, to stop people from using them as storage areas, and to allow easier crossing and sharing of the limited road space. One of the difficulties for the study team is getting agreement from Transport Department colleagues and district councillors on making changes and removing furniture. What if an accident occurs? What if people complain? These questions can bog down pilot schemes for years, or reduce them to hardly noticeable changes. Thanks to the protesters this dynamic has completely changed. The railings are gone. We have seen creative re-use of all street furniture. Protesters figured out how easy it is to remove them and zip-tie them together to create roadblocks. Near my office it has improved road safety. Formal crossings along Des Voeux Road are far between, so everyone crosses everywhere. But not everywhere you could get back to the pavement. Now you can. We have written to government and
After Des Vouex Road, Central
proposed that this is an opportunity. Don’t put the guardrails back. Why give protesters another chance to re-use them? Where there is a need to deter parking, use bollards. Let’s monitor how people respond. We will find that the kerb itself is enough to let people know where they are safe, and where they need to negotiate with vehicles. Trust Hongkongers.
Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, a Southern District Councillor and the coconvenor of Save Our Country Parks alliance. SOUTHSIDE.HK | 51
southside secrets
St. Stephen’s College
soldiers, doctors and nurses. A school teacher was also killed in his effort to protect students who were trapped on campus. The horrific event became known as the ‘St. Stephen’s College Massacre’. As Hong Kong fell to Imperial Japan, the campuses of St. Stephen’s College and parts of the Stanley Prison became the Stanley Internment Camp. The camp housed over 3,000 captured civilians over the three years of Japanese occupation. Some notable internee including the then-Attorney General of Hong Kong Sir C. Grenville Alabaster and Chief Justice, Atholl MacGregor. The college’s infrastructure suffered tremendously during the occupation. The bungalows where the school teachers and wardens used to live were mostly destroyed. The now rebuilt Bungalow C was nearly flattened during an American Air Raid in 1945, when over fourteen civilian internees were accidentally killed. Today, you can stroll down the slanted path surrounded by giant trees and beautiful
Before and now of St. Stephen’s College
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St. Stephen’s College How to get there?
credit: St Stephen’s College Facebook
H
ong Kong’s rapid urbanisation since the 80s left very few areas of the city untouched. Located in the southmost of Hong Kong Island, Stanley was not immune from the change. Little about Stanley today reminds people of the secluded village it used to be. The then-fishing village is now a beloved tourist location with beautiful beaches, rustic waterfront bars and bungalows. With tourists outnumbering the locals, very few recall its rich history. But it isn’t difficult to find clues of the past here and there – a big piece of it lies in the stapled school, St. Stephen’s College. Stanley was the Commonwealth Army’s last line of defence before they surrendered Hong Kong to the Japanese in December 1941. Prior to that, the Main Hall of the St. Stephen’s College Campus was converted into an emergency military hospital of the Army. On Christmas Day 1941, the Japanese Army entered the campus. There, they killed and injured over a hundred wounded
flowers and watch dozens of students moving from classroom to classroom. It is hard to imagine the turmoil this place had been through. Traces of the camp’s history remains – the main hall and bungalows are declared monuments and still used daily by students and staff. One of the bungalows was converted into a mini-museum, housing artefacts found inside the internment camp. The school chapel built shortly after the war has beautiful stained glass windows and plaque to remember the story of the internees. The Campus also borders the Stanley Military Cemetery, the resting place of around 600 soldiers who gave their lives in the war and civilians who passed away in the internment camp. To this day, a number of them remain unidentified. In commemoration, the St. Stephen’s College Heritage Trail opened in 2008, allowing the public to visit the campus upon registration on the school’s website. The Stanley Military Cemetery is open to the public every day from 8am to 5pm. credit: St Stephen’s College Facebook
credit: St Stephen’s College Facebook
Kimberly Chan explores the college-turned-military hospital from the nineteenth century
Take Bus 6, 6X or 260 from Central’s Exchange Square, and alight at St. Stephen’s College station. The journey takes around 45 minutes without traffic. The military cemetery is a five-minute walk from St. Stephen’s College.
Want to know more? Geoffrey Charles Emerson - Hong Kong Internment 1942-1945, Life at the Japanese Civilian Camp in Stanley conducts a thorough investigation of the history. Available on Google Books, Book Depository; or attend a guided tour of the heritage trail led by students by registering at ssc.edu.hk/ssctrail
southside secrets
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marketplace
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marketplace
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column
The pleasures of a small footprint Mrs Backfire is glad to be back from her summer holidays. Here’s why
I
t’s September folks, and that means we’re all back in town and talking about our summer vacations. Where’d you go? What’d you do? How’s the family? The Junior Backfires and I made our usual trek to the Land of Tips, and boy did we learn A LOT. To begin, every year it seems, someone else gets added to the list of who gets a gratuity. In the Land of Tips, not only do you have to slip a little something extra to your waiter, waitress, bartender; your taxi, Uber or shuttle bus drivers; your hairdresser, massage therapist, manicurist, tour guide; the skycap, the concierge1, and the other guy who did that helpful thing when you were looking for that place, but you also need to look after your dog groomer, tattoo artist and, of course, your hotel housekeepers. Please allow me to apologize for my ignorance, housekeepers of America, but I thought tipping was optional until I saw the now ubiquitous ‘thank you’ envelopes in my hotel rooms this summer, right next to the handy notepads and cable TV guides. I am making amends and, in future, shall crisscross the country with a plethora of red packets of neatly folded US$1’s and 5’s. You have to admire Hong Kong efficiency— we do this once a year in one big generous go. It’s certainly more convenient for the giver; I’m not sure about the receiver though. Yes, there is a larger discussion to be had about a living wage (on both sides of the Pacific), but let’s table that for another day, shall we? Right now, I want to talk about our other summer learnings2 and the exciting world of Air
It’s true, the universe is expanding 1 2
Care. What’s that you say? Why are we devolving into a discussion on duct-cleaning? Dear reader, that’s exactly where my mind went initially, but then I learned. Oh, I learned so much. You see, in the Land of Tips, where the science of getting-people-to-buy-whatthey-didn’t-know-they-needed-to-buy has been refined and optimized to its maximum potential, Air Care is not an industrial operation requiring guys in coveralls (whom you may or may not have to tip). Neither is Air Care a simple aromatic candle or a can of Lysol next to the toilet when someone’s been in the bathroom an extra-long time. Air Care in the Land of Tips is a whole range of air-freshening choices—freshpressed apple! cranberry cheer! Bora fricking Bora!—at the nexus of Household Supplies, Cleaning Products and Wellness & Relaxation. I know this because I’ve seen the commercials, and all six product pages on amazon.com. Mrs Backfire, can I bring Air Care in to my own Hong Kong home? I believe you can, thank you for asking, but in a limited, maybe-notharvest-pumpkin kind of way. It’s not that we’re adverse to the magic of merchandising but we just don’t have enough grocery shelf space for it all. In addition, our online options tend to bump up against pesky obstacles like customs, rights and clearances, and: you could ship this to HK but it’ll cost you a month’s salary. And so, we must soldier on, maintaining— hopefully—nice-smelling and happy households in our little corner of the world, without the benefit of the latest and greatest life-improving products: she-sheds, mail-order orthodontics, a dish detergent called Quantum! and snacks that do more than just ‘bring it’, they make it pop! After several weeks in the Land of Tips, my enjoyment at being home always comes with a certain level of exhaustion. There’s the constant driving and the massive portions (and accompanying waste) but, most of all, the unlimited, overwhelming choice. Freedom is fatiguing, folks. Who knew there were so many, many varieties of tampons? It’s like the aisle of feminine products at CVS grows longer every year (and gives me one more reason to pray for menopause—hurry up already). Even my favorite peanut butter and chocolate candy has been weaponized into an
entire arsenal of shapes and sizes and flavor combos. King, Regular, Snack, Mini, Cups, Sticks—Jesus take the wheel! No, I’m happy to be back on our small island, where I pack my lunch and walk to work, and where my per capita CO2 emissions are less than half of my American and Australian counterparts. Where it’s ten minutes in any direction to the beach or hiking trails or a fantastic restaurant with human-sized dishes. After a bit of overseas travel (admittedly, an area where we HK’ers could do much more for the environment), I so appreciate how our tips get paid once a year and how, when I go to the grocery store, my options for most anything are limited to about three brands. It’s a certain kind of freedom.
Mrs Backfire is - in the words of John Hughes - a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess and a criminal (well, just that one time and I do regret it). You can see me as you want to see me ;)
In millennial-speak, a concierge is now your ‘on-site navigator’ leading you to only the coolest places in town, where you’ll be expected to tip generously and know what a spiked seltzer is. I use the word ‘learnings’ because like Bodyguard’s doomed Home Secretary, Julia Montague, I hate the word ‘learnings’ and was wondering if you do too? Share your thoughts! (Also, I believe she could very well show up in Season 2 – discuss.)
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