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August 2018

Sandy summer Discover Hong Kong’s hidden beaches Family fun in Macau Back-to-school goodies

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CONTENTs 2

Editor’s letter

Hello from the hot desk

ISSUE 052

4 Contributors

Meet the team 7

What’s on

12

Things you should know

13

August happenings

Birthday time

Big summer quiz How did you do?

14 News

Happenings this month 18

Hindes in Hong Kong

20

Book review

22

My Hong Kong

34

Health and happiness with our columnist

24

What’s new for kids

From India with love

Modern family Scrap the screens

26

Cover story

32

Open day

36

39

Brilliant beaches

15

Tour of Shrewsbury

Things we’d buy School style

Travel news August’s hottest destinations

42 Travel

Macau with kids 48

26

Flailing spouse Medical musings

18 41

36

Scan and visit our website expat-parent.com

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editor’s message

who’s in charge?

Editorial editorial@hongkongliving.com Editor Carolynne Dear

Managing Editor Gemma Shaw

Contributing Editor Nicole Slater

Sub-Editor Kay Ross

Design anna@hongkongliving.com Graphic Designer Anna Schulteisz

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

Sales and Marketing Executive Isamonia Chui

Sales and Marketing Executive Corrie Tang

Sales and Marketing Executive Johnny Wong

Accounting charles@hongkongliving.com Assistant Operations Manager Charles Lau

Publisher Tom Hilditch tom@hongkongliving.com

N

ow I have to come clean and admit I’ve been working “on the hoof” this month. God bless modern technology and a forward-thinking boss as I’ve been lucky enough to oversee this issue while soaking up the Italian sun with the family. Huge thanks must also go to my formidable freelance team of writers who have stepped into the breach in my absence and attended a whirlwind of summer media events.

Of course summer is not always exotic destinations and copious amounts of Aperol Spritz.

Many parents are of course tied to office-based jobs. A sucker for Instagram “positivity quotes”, I was a little sad to see one pop-up last month which for me slightly missed the mark. “We get 18 delicious summers with our children,” it said. “This is one of your 18.”

We ladies are notoriously guilty for piling pressure on ourselves to get everything right - from home decor, to our career, to the way we dress, to what we weigh, to working our nuts off getting it right for our kids. And quotes like this do nothing other than pile on even more pressure. We can’t all take heaps of time off work every July and August, and we can’t all jump on a plane at a moment’s notice.

So even if you manage just a handful of special days with the kids these holidays - and it could be something as simple as baking a cake together in the air con - you’ve done the best you can. And 40 years on I’m still spending time with my parents, so I’m not too convinced about the “18” bit either.

So wherever you are and whatever you’re doing this summer break, enjoy.

Summer memories are whatever you want them to be.

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

HONG KONG hongkongliving.com Expat Parent is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Expat Parent cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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contributors

Ifat Kafry Hindes

Amelia Sewell

Kate Farr

Our regular health and wellness columnist hit the town again this month.

Was invited on a private tour of brand new Shrewsbury International School this month.

Sailed to Macau to find out what’s good for kids over the holidays.

The best thing I’ve done this summer is… spending time with friends and family after a busy couple of years. Happiness is so important for the soul.

The best thing I’ve done this summer is… read A Gentleman In Moscow. Such a beautifully written book.

The best thing I’ve done this summer is… finally organise my apartment. We moved in March but it’s taken this long to unpack.

My happy place for a sundowner cocktail is… by the pool at the Legend Metropole in Hanoi – hands down my favourite hotel in Asia.

My happy place for a sundowner cocktail is… Red Sugar at The Kerry Hotel. It’s gorgeous and with a view to die for – definitely one to take the visitors to.

My happy place for a sundowner cocktail is… Isola and La Rambla in IFC and Blue Bar at The Four Seasons – sorry, I can’t narrow it down any further than that!

Want to write for Expat Parent Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com

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what’s on

Diary dates

AUG 4, 11 & 18

Beach yoga Enjoy aerial hammocks, hoops and flying poles on the sand, following a hike from Sai Kung to Tai Long Wan. bamboo-yoga.com

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what’s on $590 with the APA Outdoor Shop. asiapacificadventure.com

AUG 4

Yoga Class at Pier 10 Enjoy stretching by the sea. Free.

3.30-4.30pm. Pier 10 Central Pier. yogacommunity.org

Ocean Park “Carnimal”, throughout Aug

THROUGHOUT AUG

Ocean Park Summer “Carnimal”

City Hall, Central and Hong Kong Space Museum, TST. cof.gov.hk

Featuring Caribbean beats and Brazilian acts and animal-themed parades every hour. Entry included with General Admission, Ocean Park Hong Kong. oceanpark.com.hk

Yoga by the harbour, Aug 4

AUG 6, 13

Artful Summer Workshops led by a fine-art graduate include painting, card-making, collage and more.

4-5pm for seven to 12-year-olds, after 5pm for 12+. $150. Lamma Art Collective, 1/F, 23 Main Street, Yung Shue Wan, Lamma Island. lammaartcollective.com

THROUGHOUT AUG

Rock-climbing Summer Courses at Verm

AUG 12

Kids aged four to 15 can scale rocks at Verm’s challenging summer bouldering and sports climbing courses. $1,300 for 4 classes. 4/F, Kodak House 1, 321 Java Road, Quarry Bay. vermcity.com

Discovery Bay Sunday Market Shop for indie crafts and unique goods, then visit the D’Deck restaurants for a postshopping dinner. 11am-6pm. Discovery Bay Plaza. handmadehongkong.com

UNTIL AUG 5

AUG 15

Explore 1930s China in this exhibition of black-and-white photographs and documentary films by Swiss photo-journalist Walter Bosshard. Free. The University Museum and Art Gallery, The University of Hong Kong. umag.hku.hk

One-on-one yoga sessions for mums while tots join in with a fun planting workshop and puppet show. Suitable for littlies aged one to six. Register online. 3-5.30pm. $350/ adult and child; $450/adult and two children.

Highgate House School, 100 Peak Road, The Peak. catchapp.com.hk

“Bosshard in China”

Catch Pamper & Playdate All made-up at the Chinese Opera Festival, until Aug 12

AUG 3-8

International Baby/Children Products Expo

A fantastic line-up of theatre, music, dance, film and magic for kids, plus workshops and backstage tours. hkiac.gov.hk/2018/en/

Over 1,000 stalls selling more than 100,000 types of children’s products, and a crawling contest for tots. $30 for adults; $20 for children under one year. New Wing Hall 1, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. hkmb.hktdc.com

UNTIL AUG 12

AUG 4

Learn more about the roots of Hong Kong through this traditional artform. Hong Kong

Learn to paddle-board in Deep Water Bay.

UNTIL AUG 12

International Arts Carnival 2018

Chinese Opera Festival

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Stand-Up Paddleboard Explorer Clinic

AUG 15 - 21

Peppa Pig’s Great Vacation Join Peppa and her friends for an unforgettable vacation. Eleven fun and interactive zones for parents and kids to play. $200. Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, 1 Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay. hkticketing.com

what’s on AUG 17 - 26

Hong Kong Ballet’s ALICE (in Wonderland) Contemporary style and a timeless tale.

Tickets from $100. Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, TST. urbtix.hk

AUG 18 - 26

Sai Kung Bulldogs Football Trials The Bulldogs are holding summer football trials and summer workshops. No matter what your skill level is, you’re welcome to join and learn. Free. Wai Man Road, Playground Football Pitch, Sai Kung. saikungbulldogs.com

all levels. $3,680 for Pure cardholders; $4,600 for non-cardholders. 14/F, The Peninsula Office Tower, TST. pure-yoga.com

AUG 25

French Storytelling Slip into the magical world of French “contes de fées” (fairytales). Open to all ages and all levels. Free, register at eventbrite.com. 1.302pm. Alliance Française de Hong Kong, Jordan Centre, G/F-3/F, 52 Jordan Road, Kowloon. afhongkong.org

AUG 25

Eat-Pray-Art Immerse Day

AUG 19

Momentai Pop Up Market Grab a variety of items, ranging from delicious olives to silk bedding. Starts at 11am. Shop ’til you drop at Kiosk 1, Sai Kung Waterfront, Wai Man Road, Sai Kung.

AUG 23 - SEP 2 Restaurant Week Hong Kong Ballet performs ALICE, Aug 17-26

AUG 18

Restorative Nature Therapy Practice Immerse your senses in nature and reconnect with your soul. The therapeutic walk will end with a tea ceremony, with tea leaves foraged from the forest. $280/person, $450/couple.

8.30am-12.15pm. Sai Kung. kembali.org

Restaurant Week features a range of special offers at restaurants across the city if you use the DiningCity App. restaurantweek.diningcity.hk/

AUG 24 - 26

YOGA BOU Intensive with Michiko Minegishi A three-day intensive workshop suitable for

A tour through SOHO’s hidden art galleries, accompanied by high-quality tea sets and wine. Indulge in fine art, street art and culinary art all at once! $750 for one, $1,314 for two, 2-5pm, gathering point at Amanda Wei Gallery, Central. eventbrite.hk

AUG 25 - 26

“The Magic Flute” Enjoy Mozart’s musical genius and the Chinese cultural context of this East-meetsWest performance. Tickets from $100.

7.30pm. Concert Hall, Hong Kong City Hall, Central. urbtix.hk

AUG 29

Ladies’ Beauty Night Professional make-up artist and co-founder of Lamma Art Collective, Cherie Chung teaches her tricks of the trade. Wine provided, bring your own cosmetics. 8pm.

Lamma Art Collective, 1/F, 23 Main Street, Yung Shue Wan, Lamma. islandartonlamma@gmail.com

AUG 18

South Island Art Discovery Walk Discover Hong Kong’s vibrant street art in this walk organised by Accidental Art, as a specialist explains the local art market. $350.

2-4.30pm. Meet at the Circle K, Wong Chuk Hang Station Exit A. accidentalart.co/southisland-art-discovery-walk

AUG 18 - 19

Summer Colour Splash @ Link Stanley Plaza A festival featuring art, music, fitness, relaxation, environment, pet, gourmet bazaars, seaside massages and detox yoga.

Shuttle buses to and from Admiralty. 2-9pm.

Stanley Plaza Amphitheatre. expat-parent.com 9

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BOOK NOW SEPT 1

GlamFest Kowloon Bazaar 2018 Shop ’til you drop at this lifestyle bazaar, with a lucky draw, freebies and wine tasting! 11am-8pm. Regal Kowloon Hotel, 71 Mody Road, TST East. kowloonbazaar.com

SEPT 5 - 9

"The Amazing Bubbleman" Square bubbles, round bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles and even people inside bubbles! Mesmerising fun for your children (and your inner child). Tickets from $395. Various times. Drama Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Wan Chai. hkticketing.com

SEPT 15 - 16

and The Sleeping Beauty. Tickets from $200. Studio Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, TST. urbtix.com

Ballet Classics for Children: Carnival of the Animals

SEPT 29

Young animal-lovers and ballet fans unite at these interactive performances, including Swan Lake

If you’re a mompreneur, you might be interested to know that the 852 Mama Market is open for registration

Mama Market

now. It’s all about supporting and celebrating local Mompreneurs and welcomes any “mama-created, mama-designed or mama-operated” businesses. The market runs 9am5pm, is free-of-charge and will have a kids’ corner and gallery space.

Usagi, 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central. 852mamas.com

SEPT 29 - 30

24-Hour Charity Dinghy Race Join in Hong Kong’s only aquathon, with free entry and trials for the public. Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Hiram’s Highway Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung. hhyc.org.hk

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things to know

1

Kwan Tai (or Gwaan Dai) was a Han Dynasty (202BC to 220AD) general who became immortalised as the god of war.

ai n T ai O a w T K e in e l p tem villag

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He is widely regarded as a symbol of loyalty and integrity and is worshipped by both the police and the triads.

Born to a lowly family, Kwan Tai attained glory on the battlefield and after his death he rose to become Saintly Emperor Kwan.

In Central, his birthday is marked by an ever-burning lamp in front of his statue inside Man Mo Temple on Hollywood Road.

5 6

Kwan Tai Ancient Temple in Tai O is the oldest temple dedicated solely to Kwan Tai. It was built in 1741 and contains an ancient statue of Kwan Tai made by local artisans.

Sham Shui Po Kwan Tai Temple is the largest dedicated temple in Hong Kong.

Things you need to know Kwan Tai On August 5 we’ll be wishing Kwan Tai many happy returns.

So who is he and why do we celebrate his birthday?

7

8

the M Tem an Mo p Holl ywo le on od R oad

Hundreds of temples across Hong Kong worship Kwan Tai, but the most significant ones at which to show your respects are Tai O Kwan Tai Ancient Temple, Man Mo Temple, Long Mu Temple on Peng Chau and Sham Shui Po Kwan Tai Temple.

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Expect to see worshippers making offerings of roast meats, wine and incense in the hope of winning good fortune.

sta tue Tai of Kw a in T ai O n

BIG SUMMEr QUIZ ANSWErS 16. Cheung Chau

Did you know?

The answers to the Big summer Quiz revealed 1. Establishment Day 2. Qing Dynasty

17. Tuen Ng 18. The Basic Law 19. Queen Victoria 20. Sir Henry Pottinger and Chris Patten 21. Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor 22. Big licence stall - or cooked food stall 23. The Mouse Killer 24. Fragrant Harbour

3. 1888

25. Xiao Long Bau (top), Char Siu Bau (left), Har Gow (right)

4. Sir Thomas Jackson, 1st Baronet and early HSBC banker

26. English and Cantonese

5. Sir William Des Voeux, 10th governor of Hong Kong

28. Possession Point, Sheung Wan

6. T10 7. Kai Tak

27. Four 29. Love is a Many-Splendored Thing 30. SARS

8. T3

31. Forty-two years

9. Urban (red), New Territories (green), Lantau (blue)

32. Noodles 33. Bamboo, Dots and Characters

10. Special Administrative Region

34. Tung Chee-hwa

11. English Schools Foundation

35. Jan 1, The first day of January; Feb 16, Lunar New Year’s Day; Feb 17, Second Day of Lunar New Year; Feb 18, Third Day of Lunar New Year; Feb 19, Fourth day of Lunar New Year; Mar 30, Good Friday; Mar 31, The day

12. Bauhinia 13. Seven million 14. Ninety-nine years 15. Two hundred and sixty-one

following Good Friday; Apr 2, Easter Monday; Apr 5, Ching Ming Festival; May 1, Labour Day; May 22, Buddha’s Birthday, Jun 18 Dragon Boat Festival; Jul 1, SAR holiday; Jul 2, SAR holiday; Sep 25, Cay after mid-Autumn Festival; Oct 1, National Day; Oct 17, Chung Yeung Festival; Dec 25, Christmas Day; Dec 26, First weekday after Christmas Day. 36. Jorge Alvares 37. French International School 38. The pig 39. 1967 40. 1966 41. The dragon 42. AISHK 43. Noonday Gun 44. Twenty-two 45. Prince Charles 46. Named after Sir Murray MacLehose, Hong Kong’s longest serving governor, who established Hong Kong’s country parks 47. 1851 48. Calm down/relax 49. MacLehose Trail, 100km 50. St Paul’s College

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news

Give a dog a home

Photo courtesy of Tatiana Yankovskaya

Homewares boutique Bowerbird Home has collaborated with Hong Kong Dog Rescue (HKDR) to promote its puppy adoption programme and raise much-needed funds.

A photo shoot at Bowerbird’s Horizon Plaza-based store in Ap Lei Chau aims to show prospective adopters that not just pure breeds deserve a life of safety and comfort.

HKDR operates a “no kill” policy and has so far re-homed over 8,000 stray and abandoned dogs since it was founded in 2003. It currently has 600 pups looking for somewhere to live.

The group relies solely on private donations to house, feed and care for the dogs and Bowerbird will be donating a percentage of sofa and bedding sales throughout August to the charity.

Taking part in the shoot were Carlo, Bertie and Lottie, all of whom currently live at HKDR’s Ap Lei Chau Homing Centre. hongkongdogrescue.com and bowerbird-home.com

Co-working hub welcomes kids Global co-working space brand Campfire has launched “Campfire Campus”, Asia’s first co-learning hub with a play space for children.

Campfire currently operates at six locations in Hong Kong, including a brandnew branch in Tseung Kwan O that opened last month.

The group now hopes to enable hotdesking parents to be able to work alongside their children. The Campfire Campus concept offers working parents a selection of education providers, from early childcare to language schools and performance arts, 14 expat-parent.com

alongside a fully equipped co-working space for parents, play areas for kids and a café.

Wang Tse, co-founder of Campfire, is a father himself. “As a business owner and father of three, for years I have been very aware of the challenge of both running a business and spending time with my children throughout the day,” he told Expat Parent.

“It’s been a long-time goal to help provide a solution for the modern day ‘parentpreneur’.”

The concept is aimed at non-officebased working parents who have either launched a start-up, are freelancing, running

a small business or simply have a flexible working schedule.

Between 2014 and 2017, flexible working space across Asia Pacific more than doubled and it is predicted that as much as 30% of corporate portfolios over the region could be flexible space by 2030. Over the last two years, Campfire has expanded across 20 locations in four countries (Hong Kong, UK, Singapore and Australia) and is Hong Kong’s fastest-growing co-working service provider. campfire.work

news

Top of the class

Maths stamps Whether your children love mathematics or struggle with it, get them some stamps.

Hongkong Post has released a set of special stamps titled “Children Stamps – Fun with Numbers and Symbols”. It’s a collection of 16 bright and playful stamps, with each one showcasing a number from 0 to 9 or a symbol: +, -, ×, ÷, % or =. The idea is to encourage children to enjoy the fun and vibrancy of numbers and to understand how maths is interconnected with their daily lives. If they’re feeling creative, children can also add a pop of colour to the stamps.

Lycra heaven James Chow achieved a perfect score at CDNIS

Hong Kong’s International Baccalaureate (IB) results are in, along with a plethora of perfect scores and impressive pass rates, writes Amelia Sewell.

At the Canadian International School (CDNIS), 114 students sat the IB diploma, averaging a score of 36.9. Amongst them was James Chow, who gained a perfect score of 45 and plans to go on to study Medicine at St. Andrews University, Scotland. Eleven further students scored above 43, 12 received the bilingual diploma and the school was delighted to see a 100% pass rate.

Amongst English School Foundation

secondary schools, 15 students achieved a perfect score, with six of those from Sha Tin College and another five from Island School.

The average score across ESF schools was 35.8, which is six points above the world average. Twenty three per cent of students scored over 40.

These summer results follow the impressive scores seen by the Australian International School (AISHK), which sits the winter IB exams in November. AISHK celebrated at the close of last year, with 8% of students receiving a perfect score and 52% receiving scores of 40 or above.

Tea for two

Sportswear specialist Lulu Lemon has re-vamped its IFC-based store. The venue re-opened last month with a newly launched Asia Fit collection, as well as its regular male and female workout apparel lines.

The store originally opened three years ago and the new, expanded space now boasts a host of store ambassadors to promote its Ambassador Program. Nikita Ramchandani, founder or Kita Yoga, Brian Woo of Harbour Runners and Ada Cheung, program director and spin instructor at XYZ, are partnering with the brand to lead community fitness sessions.

The store is located at Shop 1098b, IFC, 8 Finance Street, Central. For details of classes, check facebook.com/ lululemonhongkong

Quarry Bay-based hotel EAST has launched a floral-inspired afternoon tea. Perfect if you’ve got guests in town, or even if you just fancy a sweet treat, waft in on a weekend and enjoy beautiful blossoms infused into a sumptuous summer spread. Delicacies include a lychee rose chiffon, blueberry butterfly pea tart and cherry blossom macarons, as well as fruit scones (naturally) and triple cheesecake. Imaginative savoury bites include lobster treasure box, goose liver crème brûlée, Hokkaido scallop tartlet and beet pesto crostini.

The afternoon tea set is available between 3pm and 5.30pm on weekends and public holidays, $368 for two and an additional $240/extra person. reservations@sugar-hongkong.com Tea time at EAST

Lulu Lemon ambassadors celebrate the store launch

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giveaways WIN HERE! Click the Giveaways tab on our website: hongkongliving.com

Sterling silver bracelet and necklace Up for grabs: Three bracelet-and-necklace sets in magical unicorn, sweet rose and precious key charm

From: Stella Rose was created by two Hong Kong-based mums to fill a gap in the market for high-quality, meaningful gifts for girls. Each collection set is handcrafted and uses real gemstones. In addition, the versatility of the designs lets girls get creative by styling their jewellery according to their own preferences. stellarosecharms.com

Back to School Special Set Up for grabs: Back to School Special Set: 1 Cover, 1 laptop sleeve and 1 silicone keyboard

From: Make it COLOURFUL believes in the empowerment and expression of the personality of children and young adults by printing unique designs onto covers for their personal MacBooks. They’ve created a large collection of designs to suit all tastes. Their products also protect children against the harmful radiation from their devices. makeitcolourful.com.hk

Massage treatments

Up for grabs: Five free “Meridian Neck & Shoulder Massage with Pistacia Lentiscus Gum” and “Hot Stone Stomach or Back Massage” From: With over 30 years of beauty expertise in Hong Kong, Swiss O is proud to present one of its best-selling treatments, “Meridian Whole Body Massage with Pistacia Lentiscus Gum”. The Detox Soothing Oil with Pistacia Lentiscus Gum from Swiss Organic is well known for its anti-aging properties. swissobeauty.com

Priority passes for Hebe Haven

From: The Priority Pass allows you to enjoy a one-time free trial of one water sport activity for two people; and the Priority Pass Session is available from 9:00am to 10:00am on 30 September 2018. hhyc.org.hk

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Photo by Herman Ng

Up for grabs: A Priority Pass for two at the 24 Hour Charity Dinghy Race held at The Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Sai Kung

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HEALTH & wellness

Hindes in Hong Kong On the path to positivity with health & wellness editor Ifat Hindes

W

ith the summer upon us, I’ve been swept up in a mad rush of events before everyone heads off for the holidays. And what I’ve noticed this month is corporates responding to a desire for change. It seems businesses of all sizes are becoming more proactive in making changes for a more sustainable and positive future.

One of the front runners was Hong Kong Land, which led a panelist talk hosted by Sean Fitzpatrick from Tatler. Jessica Alba was the guest of honour at this, the first of a series of talks to be hosted throughout the year entitled “A Year of Something New”.

Joining her was Richard Ekkbebus, culinary director of The Landmark Oriental Hotel, Sharie Ross-Tse, co-founder of Reviv, and Luke Grana, founder of Grana, with the talk led by Fitzpatrick.

Alba is the entrepreneurial mogul behind The Honest Company and Honest Beauty, and the speakers took turns to discuss what sustainability meant to them. The Landmark took the opportunity to launch a new initiative with participating restaurants where customers can bring their own takeaway 18 expat-parent.com

Ifat Hindes with Intimissimi (above) and Jessica Alba (below)

boxes and receive a discount. It was a special evening for me as Alba coincidentally launched her Honest Company at the same time as I launched my Choice Cooperative brand, both of us trying to make a positive change.

And onto food, Impossible Foods has been taking Hong Kong by storm this year.

Where companies like Beyond Burger are catering to a vegan and vegetarian clientele, Impossible Foods focuses on satisfying meat-eaters. Their mission is to “reduce

humanity’s destructive impact on the global environment” by replacing the use of animals as a food production technology.

They have experimented with plants to create replacements for meat, fish and dairy products. The “beef” products even “bleed” like real meat as they’ve discovered how to duplicate the heme (found in meat) from plant sources. Their products have been launched on menus across Hong Kong, including Little Bao, Happy Paradise, Beef & Liberty, Dining Concepts outlets and the Icon Hotel buffet, and are soon to launch at The Galaxy in Macau.

Talking of happiness-inspired launches, Intimissimi X Calzedonia held a special preview for their new FW2018 collections with super-fun and environmentally-conscious designs. I love the new movement of women such as model Mia Kang, who advocates for women embracing themselves for who they are, not their size. Worth noting here is British TV presenter, model and actress Jameela Jamil, who launched the @i_weigh campaign on Instagram as a mission for women to state what they weigh in terms of self-worth rather than kilograms.

Intimissimi was the first brand I felt confident wearing after having three children and suffering on-and-off body dysmorphia.

The Hong Kong team took on board my concerns and always made me feel comfortable. Their new collections are a step in the right direction by encouraging women to embrace themselves for who they are, inside and out. After all, a woman’s outer beauty is a window onto her inner strength.

Ifat Kafry Hindes is a Hong Kong mum and awardwinning wellness entrepreneur.

Follow her adventures @ifathindes

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book review

Out this month A marriage in trouble in the aftermath of the Great War is the starting point for So Much Life Left Over by Louis de Bernières. Protagonists Rosie and Daniel have moved to Ceylon with their young daughter in an attempt to both put the trauma of the war behind them and to rekindle their faltering marriage. Back in England, Rosie’s three sisters are dealing with their own challenges in their quest for family, for purpose and for happiness.

The thriller Now You See Her by Heidi Perks delves into the life of talented painter Paris Sweeney, who as the book opens is enjoying a career high, selling her work to an exclusive New York City gallery. But despite her seeming contentment, Sweeney is restless and falls into a night of intense passion with millionaire Richard Worth. This event is followed by a creative frenzy that she cannot remember, but she chillingly discovers that she has depicted a graphic murder scene. When a reallife murder mirrors her work, Sweeney is the top suspect.

To procreate or not to procreate, that is the question at the heart of Motherhood by Canadian writer Sheila Heti. In this part-essay, part-novel, the narrator, a woman in her 30s, considers whether she should have children.

Under the influence of her partner, her body, her family and her friends, she struggles to

make a moral and meaningful choice.

Having made the leap into parenthood, two couples in suburban London are struggling to balance personal fulfillment with their demanding family lives. Perhaps close to the bone for many of us, Ordinary People by Diana Evans follows angst-ridden Melissa, who doesn’t want to let her new baby change her, while her partner Michael is struggling to stay faithful. There are more sadly predictable scenarios with Stephanie and Damian, happily married and parents to three children, but Damian is thrown into mid-life crisis following the death of his father. As one critic described it, it is the story of our lives, and those moments that threaten to unravel us.

The Shanghai Wife

P THE ICK OF MON TH

Emma Harcourt

A personal story inspired by the author’s own grandparents, who met on board a boat bound for Hong Kong in the 1920s.

Harcourt’s grandmother had left a small country town in rural NSW and her grandfather stepped in as her protector against the advances of other men once on board. They fell in love, got married and ended up in Shanghai.

The Shanghai Wife sees fictional Annie Brand and her new husband arrive in 1920s Shanghai, but instead of embracing the glittering expat society, Annie feels herself increasingly suffocated by the exclusive social scene set around the International Settlement. She is quickly drawn into the “real” Shanghai and begins to see the world from the perspective of the locals, including her husband’s servants. She is soon enmeshed in a web of intrigue and conspiracy, not to mention a passionate love affair.

What’s new for kids

Boy Under Water

The Storm Keeper’s Island

Gangster School

Adam Baron

Catherine Doyle

Kate Wiseman

Cymbeline is a young boy who has never been swimming. It’s not all his fault – he’s never been to the beach and his mum says the public pools aren’t too clean. But for school swimming lessons he has to get in the water – understandably he’s a bit nervous. He’s googled front crawl and found his dad’s old pair of trunks, what could go wrong?

But an accident reveals a family mystery that turns his life upside down.

Once in a generation, Arranmore Island chooses a new Storm Keeper to keep its magic safe. It’s time for Fionn Boyle’s eccentric old grandfather to step down so a new keeper can take his place.

The battle begins over who is to become the next island’s next champion, but something even more sinister is waking up, something intent on rekindling an ancient war.

It’s the start of a new school year at Blaggard’s School for Tomorrow’s Tyrants. The Year Sevens can’t wait to begin classes in Thievery, Betrayal, Fabrication and Disguise. All this is new to Charlie Partridge, the school’s first-ever Dependable (non-criminal). Will he cope, or will super-villain and fellow student Pecunia Badpenny get rid of him and his best friend Milly?

20 expat-parent.com

expat-parent.com 21

PEOPLE

22 expat-parent.com

PEOPLE

My Hong Kong the homewares designer Ameesha Kapadia is the founder of Pink Lotus. She tells ​ Carolynne Dear how she balances her business with family life I moved here from Mumbai six years ago. ​ Like many of the expat women here, I arrived as a trailing spouse. My husband had been here for a year before I joined him. We live in Mid-levels ​–​I love the vibe of the city; there’s something for everyone.

I worked as a stylist for a fashion magazine in Mumbai. I​ also have a Master’s degree in Public Relations from London. But it was only when I had my own home in Hong Kong that I realised my love for clothes and textiles extended to home decor as well.

I started ​Pink Lotus​with a friend. W ​ e brought curated products from India to Hong Kong: clothes and stationery and home decor products. Over time we realised there was a gap in the market for good-quality, original homeware items for price-conscious buyers. As well as importing curated pieces, we moved tentatively into manufacturing our own products. My partner has since moved back to her home country, so I now manage the business alone.

I work with a handful of manufacturers and artisans all over India. Together, we design our own prints and patterns, which are exclusive to Pink Lotus. I tailor the products to suit the needs of the Hong Kong market.

I love seeing my ideas converted into actual products – for me that’s the most exciting part of the job. I usually have a rough idea of what I want the collection to look like and I start working on finding manufacturers who will suit the product and its aesthetic. I get a lot of joy from seeing the collection come together.

This autumn I’ll be working with metals, enamel and textured stones. I’m aiming for sleek lines with a hint of glamour, which should be perfect for this year’s festive season.

Ameesha Kapadia now manufactures her own collections

It’s been tough building a brand on a tight budget. It’s also challenging dealing with manufacturers and trying to get things done on a strict deadline. There’s a heap of logistics involved with transporting the products to Hong Kong. But having said that, Hong Kong is an amazing place to start a business as it’s all so straightforward. And I have to thank all my fellow mumtrepreneurs, who have also become good friends. They’ve really supported me with ideas and advice.

It’s pretty special to have such a vibrant network of people who are making the same journey as you.

I love Gough Street, with all its tiny boutiques and cafés. Sham Shui Po is also a favourite of mine, with its lanes of ribbons and bits and bobs – you end up unearthing treasures every time you go.

When I’m not working I enjoy going to brunch with my family. I also like a day at the beach, which my daughter absolutely loves. We usually head for Repulse Bay or Shek O. I also like visiting Hong Kong’s parks; the Botanical Gardens is a favourite. My favourite restaurants include Commissary, Carbone, Yardbird, Qi, Brickhouse, Amaltifina and Mott 32. And that’s in no particular order.

Find Pink Lotus at facebook.com/thepinklotus

What I love about Hong Kong are the friends I have made here. They have become my family away from home and my precious support network.

What drives me nuts about Hong Kong?

The pollution. And the number of times you seem to fall sick each year.

coasters with gold trim expat-parent.com 23

Modern family

How to divorce your phone It’s not just the kids who need to take a tech holiday, says​ Carolynne Dear

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hen I was growing up in 1980s Britain, there used to be a kids’ activity show that aired every morning during the school summer holidays. It was called “Why Don’t You?”, and the lyrics in the signature tune ran thus: “Why don’t you switch off your television set and go and find something less boring instead?” Whereupon my mother, right on cue, would sweep into the lounge room and flick the goggle box off. “What a good idea,” she’d say. “Go and find something less boring to do.”

TV in my childhood home was limited to before 10am in the morning and after 4pm.

During the middle bit, we were expected to amuse ourselves, with the odd day trip to the park or local pool thrown in for good measure.

So I am always slightly horrified to read how many hours our own kids are spending 24 expat-parent.com

Has tech killed the art of family conversation?

When dad’s on his phone he just ignores me. I hate it.

in front of a screen these days. Granted we’re no longer struggling with just the TV, but with the summer holidays stretching ever onward, my parental guilt is starting to weigh heavier than a Black Rain cloud. Especially with certain New York psychotherapists “helpfully” dubbing screen time “digital heroin for kids”.

But it turns out that the issue isn’t just about the kids; it’s actually we adults who also need to rethink our screen time.

According to US data company Quora, we check our phones a frightening 85 times a day on average, spending up to six hours online.

A flurry of recent surveys have uncovered worrying numbers of young children who, it turns out, resent this addiction. One group of young children were interviewed and phrases such as “Stupid phone”, “It makes me mad”, and “I feel like I’m boring” abounded. “When dad’s on the phone and I talk to him, he just ignores me,” said one child. “It makes me feel angry.” And according to another: “Mum answers but I know she’s not really listening. It makes me sad.”

There were reports of mothers placing phones between themselves and their bub

modern family A beginner’s guide to digital detox 1. Not sure how bad your addiction is?

Download Moment (free from the Apple store) to measure how much time a day you spend gazing at your screen.

2. Meanwhile, manage the kids’ screen time with OurPact, TeenLimit and unGlue.

3. Apply tough love and and remove all social media apps from your phone.

Having to check them from a laptop instead will instantly reduce ease of accessibility.

4. Turn off banner-style, pop-up and sound notifications.

5. Set “tech-time” parameters for you and the kids – but be realistic. in the pram so they could watch YouTube as they walked – thus ignoring the baby frantically trying to make eye contact and connect with them. And yet more stories of harassed mums and dads logging on as

6. Switch on out-of-office notifications to explain that you’re taking a tech holiday during certain hours of the day.

7. Make sure friends know you won’t be instantly available for the foreseeable.

8. If you’re headed for a day out with the kids, get them to leave their tech at home and switch your phone off.

9. Switch to paper books, magazines and newspapers – reading is a great pastime for kids to mirror.

10. Agree on an evening a week when tech is banned, and get out the board games and playing cards.

soon as they walked through the door in the evening, thus missing out on catching up on their offspring’s days.

I was waiting outside a summer-camp venue just the other day as a mum pulled

up in a shiny SUV. Once parked, she immediately pulled out her phone and began texting – fair enough, I thought, what else is there to do while you’re waiting for the kids to finish up? But then her two charges came running out of the door, each clutching a painting they’d completed. They piled eagerly into the back of the car – but not once did mum look up from her phone.

The kids sat patiently as she spent the next few minutes completing her text, and then drove off. She had not even turned round to acknowledge them – they could have been axe murderers for all she’d checked.

But of course we’re all guilty – we all live our lives through our phones. Whether we’re arranging a playdate on WhatsApp, responding to an email from our boss or just idly scrolling through Instagram, we’re lost in a rabbit warren of tech tunnels for several minutes at a time, multiple times a day.

So the remainder of the summer holidays seems as good a time as any to take stock and wean ourselves away from the screen.

It might just be the start of something revolutionary.

expat-parent.com 25

C ST OV O ER RY

Secret sands

Grab your swimmers and head for a beach off the beaten track

Clearwater Bay First Beach

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R VE Y O R C TO S

Trio Beach

Beloved by Sai Kung’s locals, this beach can get crowded on weekends, but as it’s reasonably challenging to reach (a five-kilometre hike from the Sai Kung branch of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club or a sampan from Pak Sha Wan Pier), it tends to be quieter mid-week than many of Hong Kong’s more popular beaches.

There is parking on Pak Sha Wan pier, from where you can catch one of two sampans that chug backwards and forwards all day to little Trio. Once you’ve disembarked, you’ll find a kiosk, BBQs (charcoal is available from the kiosk) and a children’s play area. The swimming area is protected and boasts a dive platform, and the beach is lifeguarded until the end of the summer.

Hap Mun Bay

A sandy destination that can only be reached by sampan, Hap Mun (or “Half Moon”) Bay is a beautiful crescent of a beach on Sharp Island. Approach one of the sampan ladies (or ​kaito ​– small ferry operators) on Sai Kung pier – a round trip should cost about $40-50 per person. Hap Mun is the smaller of the two beaches located on Sharp Island, with Kiu Tsui stretching along the western edge. The water quality is generally good at Hap Mun and there are handy family-friendly facilities including toilets, changing rooms, showers, kiosks and barbecue pits. As with all Hong Kong beaches, mid-week is much quieter than weekends.

Playtime at Yau Ley, New Territories

Turtle Cove Slip through the gap in the barrier just past Pak Pat Shan Road at Redhill Peninsula on Tai Tam Road and be transported to Hong Kong’s version of T ​ he Beach. The steep path winds through mountain-side terrain, gurgling streams gush seawards and you aren’t rewarded with a glimpse of the golden sands until you round the final bend. This is not a walk for strollers, so make sure you bring a carrier or sling for tiny tots. The beach itself boasts a small kiosk, lifeguards and a protected cove for swimming. Be warned, though: parking is practically non-existent up on the road, so a taxi is probably your best bet.

Hanging out at Turtle Cove

expat-parent.com 27

C ST OV O ER RY

Jetty-jumping at Yau Ley

Yau Ley and Millionaire’s Bay Both beaches require boat transportation, although it is possible to hike to Yau Ley from Sai Kung Country Park (however it’s a challenging hike and we wouldn’t recommend it in the heat with little ones). Haggle a deal with the sampan ladies on Sai Kung Pier or book a speedboat through High Island Seafood restaurant on Yau Ley. The restaurant is the draw-card here: it lays on a fabulous seafood feast, after which the kids can enjoy jetty-jumping off the small pier or playing on the sand next to the restaurant. Glorious Millionaire’s Beach is just around the corner in the next bay, and if you ask nicely the restaurant is usually willing to drop you off after lunch for an additional charge.

Clearwater Bay First Beach Clearwater Bay 2’s less-well-known little sister, pretty Clearwater Bay First Beach sits nestled in the northern crook of Clearwater Bay. The sand is clean and there is protected swimming to be had in the bay. Reached the beach from the main road by heading downhill by foot on Tai Wan Tau Road. There is some parking off Clearwater Bay Road by Shing Kee Store, otherwise park at Hang Hau MTR and grab a taxi. Expect crystal-clear waters, fewer visitors 28 expat-parent.com

Lounging at Long Ke Wan

and a lifeguarded stretch of sand. There is no kiosk so bring your own supplies.

Long Ke Wan

Secluded Long Ke Wan can only be reached by foot or boat. Visually stunning, the beach is a long way from the bustle of the city and is arguably one of Hong Kong’s best. On weekends the bay fills with junks, but its silky, icing-sugar sands tend to stay relatively quiet.

If you’re hiking, catch a green taxi from Sai Kung or from the Country Park gates at Pak Tam Chung to East Dam. With the South China Sea on your right, you’ll soon see a sign to

Summer clean-up The government launched a summer beach campaign last month, urging food outlets to hand out bamboo sticks and paper straws in an effort to clean up its beaches. On International Earth Day in April, three tonnes of rubbish was removed from its 41 public beaches, most of which was singleuse plastic. As the saying goes “take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints”.

expat-parent.com 29

C ST OV O ER RY

Turtle time Saturday morning at Millionaire’s Bay

Long Ke Wan, from where you hike down to the beach. This walk is a section of Stage 2 of the MacLehose Trail. Please note there is no kiosk or restaurant on the beach so do bring plenty of water and supplies. If you’d rather travel by water, head to Sai Kung Pier and charter a speedboat. Last summer drivers were charging up to $800/boat one way.

Chung Hom Kok

This tucked-away neighbourhood beach is a beauty. It’s just around the corner from Stanley but its sands are a lot quieter. Head down the leafy steps hidden on Horizon Drive. It’s a steep descent and not particularly stroller-friendly (take a sling if you have non-walkers), but it’s totally worth the effort. At the bottom you’ll find a children’s play area, barbecue pits and a compact stretch of life-guarded sand. There’s only one little kiosk serving small snacks and drinks, so if you plan on a picnic or barbecue you’ll need to bring your own supplies. The kids will have a ball splashing in the shallows.

Hoi Ha Wan

Lovely Hoi Ha is hidden inside Sai Kung East Country Park, which means you can’t drive there. The strict permit rules at the Country Park gates at Pak Tam Chung make green taxis (about $100 for a return journey) or the number

seven minibus from Sai Kung Pier the order of the day. The beach is part of one of Hong Kong’s Marine Parks so it’s worth bringing the snorkels along. Hop off the bus at Hoi Ha Village and make your way past the village and towards the restaurants and beach. The bay boasts 64 of the 84 species of stony corals found in Hong Kong and the area has been a site of scientific interest since the 1980s. Kayaks are also available for hire, and when the tide’s in this is a fun way to paddle out to the corals.

Please note dogs are not allowed on the beach.

On an environmental note, corals should not be touched or taken away – stick with the adage “Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories” (although the odd photo is fine).

One to avoid this summer, and with good reason, is beautiful Turtle Beach on the southern coast of Lamma Island. The beach is a regular turtle-nesting site for endangered green sea turtles, and it’s currently their breeding season. Environmental groups are asking hikers, beach-goers and junk boats to steer clear of the area to give the little fellas a chance.

St. Stephen’s Beach

Head through Stanley on Wong Ma Kok Road and take a sharp right turn onto Wong Ma Kok Path (St. Stephen’s College is also signposted here). There are a handful of metered parking spots at the bottom of the hill by the water.

The sandy little beach has glorious views stretching back towards Stanley and The Twins hiking trails – it also faces west so expect fabulous sunsets on clear days. The beach is lifeguarded and the shallows are perfect for tiny beachgoers, so don’t forget your bucket and spade. There’s also a protected swimming area for those wanting a more substantial dip.

St. Stephen’s beach, Stanley

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expat-parent.com 31

schools

Primary perfection Shrewsbury International School opens this month.

Amelia Sewell pops in for a tour

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hilst the rest of us are enjoying a peaceful summer, over in Tseung Kwan O a team of people are busily putting the finishing touches to Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong. On August 29, they’ll open their doors to a swarm of eager primaryschool children who are ready to experience a brand-new school and all that it has to offer.

So what awaits the children?

The bright, spacious campus is entered via a grand sweeping staircase and is spread across six floors. Students will be aged between Nursery and Year 6, with two year groups on each floor. There’s an impressive auditorium seating over 400 people, a recital suite, a language centre, a gymnastics hall, a dining hall, not one but two swimming pools (one is for the real littlies learning to swim), and of course the obligatory sky track.

As founding principal, Ben Keeling is a well-known name amongst parents, having 32 expat-parent.com

Hands up for the new school term

played an integral role in the set-up of Kellett’s Kowloon Bay campus in 2013. He is therefore familiar with both the Hong Kong education system and the challenges of establishing a school from the ground up.

In his words, Shrewsbury HK has worked hard to create an environment with “traditional educational values and innovative teaching methodology”.

The tradition obviously stems from the links with the UK school; founded over 450 years ago, Shrewsbury UK is one of the original nine British public schools, in good company with the likes of Eton and Winchester. Academically, therefore, the core programme of study at the new school will be linked closely to the English National Curriculum whilst simultaneously acknowledging its international status.

Of particular focus are Mandarin lessons, which will be a taught daily to all children throughout the school.

To spearhead this, Shrewsbury recently appointed Dr. Suyi Wang as Chief Academic Officer for Chinese Studies for its international schools. Her role will be to design the “ambitious” Chinese curriculum, adapting it to ensure that these young students are learning in the most efficient and enjoyable way possible. She will be supported by Ms. Haze Kwok, who takes on the role of Chinese Master Teacher, responsible for implementing the programme. The school is acutely aware that it will have a combination of native, nearnative and non-native students and will adapt accordingly.

On the topic of simplified vs. traditional, the schools says it will teach simplified characters, however students familiar with traditional characters “will be well supported through their learning journey”.

When the school is at capacity it will have 1,000 students, with six classes in each primary year group. Lessons will be

schools

Sports facilities at the brand new campus

themed and taught as a combination of academic study together with exploratory and collaborative learning. Most of the teaching staff have been recruited from the UK, further evidence of Shrewsbury’s intentions not just to play lip service to the English National Curriculum but also to provide teachers who are up to date with current standards and expectations.

British schools are known as much for what goes on outside the classroom as what goes on inside, and Shrewsbury Hong Kong is no different. The school intends to make the most of its rural location close to mountains,

forests, hiking trails and parks, offering an education beyond academics.

There will also be an in-school dining facility. Rather than eating separately, teachers will sit with the children during lunchtime, encouraging conversation and a focus on manners.

With no plans to extend its provision to a secondary school, Shrewsbury will instead offer an advisory service to parents as they consider their children’s next steps. As the school intends to develop good relationships with all the major senior schools, there will be no “feeder” concept – no one school will be

favoured above others. Instead, the school will offer informed and unbiased guidance.

There is also the possibility for pupils to move to Shrewsbury in the UK for their secondary schooling, provided they meet certain academic criteria.

The school is a five-minute walk from LOHAS Park MTR, although it expects most students to arrive by bus. Unlike in some locations, parents are not prohibited from driving children to school each day, however Shrewsbury will strongly encourage students to use the organised bus service. Rather than a door-to-door service, there will be pick up points located in all major parts of Hong Kong, making the school an option for all.

When the school was in its planning stages, Shrewsbury made a definitive decision that its Hong Kong offering would be a “primary specialist” rather than a jack-ofall-trades catering for every group. As such, the school is very much designed with small children in mind. But as we all know, small children have big potential, and Shrewsbury provides the perfect environment for them to start realising it. shrewsbury.hk

expat-parent.com 33

schools

Principal’s office Amelia Sewell speaks with Shrewsbury’s man at the top, Ben Keeling

Founding headmaster Ben Keeling with students

What led you to work in education?

I believe that the education of young children plays a critical role in the development of society. I moved into teaching from a career in design – I wanted to better utilise the critical thinking and communication skills I had developed.

What’s your Hong Kong story?

My wife was born in Hong Kong. The opportunity to work here, and to bring my wife “home” seemed too good to miss. The birth of our first child just a few months ago further connects our family to the region.

What does Shrewsbury bring to the Hong Kong education scene?

We provide a uniquely focused experience for primary-aged students.

34 expat-parent.com

Which parts of the school/campus are you most proud of?

Our campus reflects our commitment to specialist provision. Distinct spaces for the teaching of athletics, gymnastics, dance, drama, design, music, performing arts and science have all been carefully considered to ensure best access for children aged between three and 11.

What are your thoughts on technology during primary school?

While technology brings a multitude of benefits and supports seamless collaboration, we must also be mindful of the need to consciously support the development of personal relationships.

A sense of balance, through intelligent selection, is critical in ensuring the very best outcomes for all students.

What do you do when you are not at work?

Away from school I live a relatively quiet life – I enjoy walking and running, spending time with my family, reading and the cinema.

What was the last book you read?

I read “Room on The Broom” by Julia Donaldson to my son before bed last night!

What was your favourite subject at school?

It would be very difficult to choose between Mathematics and Design.

Where do you take friends who are visiting Hong Kong?

One of my favourite things about Hong Kong is the diverse range of opportunity available.

From the beautiful waterfront in Sai Kung to the densely packed alleyways of Mong Kok and the glitz and glamour of Central – I enjoy showing off the variety of life here.

expat-parent.com 35

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travel

An artist’s impression of the 40-metre “rain vortex” at the centre of the Jewel Changi Airport development in Singapore, which is due for completion next year.

The complex will house 280 retail stores and food and beverage outlets surrounding Forest Valley, a five-storey garden filled with thousands of plants, trees, ferns and shrubs. The rain vortex centrepiece is expected to be the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. jewelchangiairport.com

Photo courtesy of Jewel Changi Airport Devt.

Travel news

GRAND DESIGNS

expat-parent.com 39

travel

Asian openings for Hyatt Regency It’s looking to be a busy autumn for Hyatt Regency with the opening of three new properties in Asia, writes Amelia Sewell. The sites in Okinawa, Bangkok and Bali are all set to launch by the end of the year.

Family-friendly Sanur in Bali aims to keep guests entertained with 400m of beachfront, three swimming pools and a Camp Hyatt kids’ club. The hotel is also happy to organise babysitters so parents can enjoy a relaxed meal in one of the two restaurants, perhaps followed by a nightcap in the piano bar.

The Bangkok property is located on buzzing Sukhumvit Road - a bridge connecting guests directly to the Skytrain makes this a convenient location for those wanting to explore the city. Designed in the style of a modern Thai house, the hotel is particularly proud of its two-storey, “urban forest” style rooftop bar with a “bubbly bar” dedicated entirely to Champagne.

Hyatt Regency’s new Bali property

The Japanese venture is situated on private Seragaki Island and boasts no fewer than eight restaurants and two bars. hyatt.com

Birds-eye view over Central

Private dining room, The Aviary

The Murray Hotel, which opened earlier this year, has now launched Popinjays, its rooftop bar and restaurant. Perched atop the 25-storey former government building on Garden Road, Popinjays takes its name - a moniker once assigned to parrots - from the resident cockatoos in the neighbouring Zoological and Botanical Gardens.

The new launch includes an outdoor terrace spread with comfy couches for taking in the views over a cocktail or two, and a purpose-built glass pavilion which houses the 114-cover restaurant plus a 14-seat private dining room, The Aviary.

40 expat-parent.com

Chef Didier Quennouelle presides over a modern European-inspired menu. From Monday to Thursday guests can choose from a weekly changing, four- or six-course seasonal degustation menu, complemented by a curated selection of vintage champagnes and wines. And on Friday and Saturday evenings a “Birds of a Feather” menu will be available, featuring sharing dishes and freeflow cocktails for a minimum of four diners.

Sweeping views over Hong Kong and a resident DJ are the icing on the cake. popinjayshk.com

Family fun in Vietnam Fusion Resort Phu Quoc is celebrating its first birthday with the launch of new villas, new spa treatment rooms, a kids’ club and anniversary discounts of 35%.

The five-star island resort on Vietnam’s south-western coast has added eight new villas to its portfolio of 97 private pool villas. The one- or two-bedroom properties overlook jungle and river with sunken tubs, floor-to-ceiling glass doors leading to private walled gardens, plunge pools and floating hammocks.

The property has also launched Mini Maia, a seven-days-a-week kids’ club. Fun activities include Vietnamese language learning, art workshops using coconut leaves, and sports such as badminton and cycling.

Meanwhile, adults can relax at Maia Spa & Wellness, the largest spa on the island, which has added six further treatment rooms to its existing 20. It’s hoped the new rooms, plus a new and improved manicure and pedicure room, will meet increased demand.

The menu of reflexology, body wraps, scrubs and beauty treatments is available to all guests, without limits, at no extra cost.

The resort has also added a beach bar down on the sand and introduced a mini Vietnamese street food market on Thursday evenings, with cooking demonstrations and traditional Vietnamese games stalls.

To celebrate the new launches, the resort is offering a first-anniversary special offer for guests who book and stay from now until Sept 30. The offer cuts 35% off the bestavailable online rates for its Pool Garden Villas, and includes a Pool Garden Villa for two adults, Fusion’s “Breakfast Anywhere, Anytime” service, all-inclusive daily spa treatments, airport pick-up and drop-off, Mini Maia kids’ club and all-inclusive sports and wellness activities, reservations.frpq@fusion-resorts.com

travel

Waldorf Astoria arrives in Asia

Lounge in luxury Plaza Premium Group has launched Plaza Premium First, an elevated version of its pay-per-use lounge concept, writes Gemma Shaw.

Currently in its soft-opening stage, the lounge is located in Terminal 1 at Hong Kong International Airport.

Carefully sourced partnerships with brands such as TWG, Lavazza, Elemis and Pernod Ricard have resulted in tea and coffee bars, a spa and a premium whiskey bar offering whiskey flights. An extensive wine list replaces the standard offering of red or white and includes complimentary GH Mumm Cordon Rouge N.V. Champagne.

As for food, the lounge moves away from buffet-style dining with Primo, a tableservice restaurant offering à la carte dining.

And children? Brand director Mei Mei Song, who spearheaded the rebranding exercise, is a frequent traveller and the mother of a young daughter, and her feeling is that parents of young children should feel welcome and as relaxed as possible in

Hong Kong Airport’s new pay-per-use lounge

any of their Plaza lounges. A made-to-order kid’s menu can be adapted for children with allergies and there are tranquil breastfeeding areas.

Access to the First lounge is priced at $880 for three hours. Enjoy a reduced rate of $700 before October 5. Three-hour entry for children aged 2-11 years is $616 and free for under twos. Plaza Premium First is located in the departures area near Gate 1 at Hong Kong International Airport. plazapremiumfirst.com

Reservations are now being taken for mid-August and beyond at Bangkok’s ritzy new Waldorf Astoria property.

Waldorf Astoria currently has a global portfolio of 30 hotels and resorts, but this is its first foray into the South East Asian market.

The new property boasts 171 guest rooms and suites, designed by awardwinning architect Andre Fu. Its selfproclaimed “crown jewels” are three dining outlets on levels 55, 56 and 57, including the signature Thai Nordic Restaurant, along with a lounge and two bars.

Further facilities include a Waldorf spa, open-air infinity pool with private cabanas and 24-hour fitness centre. The hotel is located in Bangkok’s central business district and is a two-minute walk from the Skytrain. waldorfbangkok.waldorfastoria.com

Forest retreat Malaysia’s luxury Datai Langkawi resort is due to reopen next month, following a 12-month, US$60-million overhaul.

The project has been led by the original architect, Didier Lefort, who carefully first integrated the retreat into the 10-millionyear-old virgin rainforest and pristine Datai Bay 25 years ago. Taking its eco credentials very much to heart, the hotel has now added a Nature Centre to the complex, which will be run by a team of naturalists and marine biologists.

The renovation has also seen the complete overhaul of the interiors of the guest rooms, suites, villas and public spaces. Inspiration has been taken from the local environment and culture, with local materials used where possible.

Further new additions include three Rainforest Pool Villas located along the Datai River that runs through the 750-hectare rainforest, with a deck and pool overlooking the water. And the new, five-bedroom Datai Estate will be one of the largest villas of its kind in Asia, featuring spacious living and games rooms over 3,500 square metres, plus two 20-metre connected pools, 24-hour butler service and a private chef.

Malaysia’s Datai Langkawi resort has received a US$60 milllion overhaul

“Embarking on such a renovation project with very limited impact to our rich natural surroundings has proven to be quite the challenge,” admitted general

manager Arnaud Girodon. “But it’s one we have been immensely proud of embracing.

We’re now looking forward to welcoming back our guests.” thedatai.com expat-parent.com 41

travel

Little high-rollers Kate Farr and kids uncover the best of family-friendly Macau

In the swim at The Sheraton Grand Macao

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hether you’re back from the annual summer pilgrimage with time to spare or you’ve been sweating it out through a Hong Kong summer, there’s nothing quite like a quick-and-easy weekend getaway to help everyone reset and refresh in time for the new school year. For the ultimate no-hassle family staycation, simply hop on a ferry in Sheung Wan and you’ll be in a Macanese pool before lunchtime. These are my picks for the ultimate stress-free stays in Hong Kong’s sister SAR.

Sheraton Grand Macao Located in the buzzy Sands Cotai Central complex, Sheraton’s Macau property had plenty to keep our kids, aged seven and three, entertained over a scorching hot weekend.

Catching the 9am Cotai Waterjet sailing from Sheung Wan’s Shun Tak Centre, we were at the hotel before 11am, ready to dump our bags and hit the pool.

However our family suite proved to be an attraction in its own right, and one that kept us busy until lunchtime. With nearly 900 square feet of space that includes a master bedroom with plush king bed, two luxurious marble bathrooms – both with tubs and stand-alone showers – and a dedicated interconnecting kids’ room boasting a brightly-coloured bunk bed, a craft table and even a videogames console, the boys were in their element, and delighted to have a space to call their own. Those travelling with tiny tots in tow can request additional amenities such as guardrails, strollers and cots, and bathrooms come with toddler toilet seats, pint-sized robes and toiletries as standard.

Prising them away from their crafty creations (not to mention the complimentary marshmallows), we headed over to Bene for lunch. A semi-buffet Italian trattoria concept

Face-painting fun at Taipa Village

offered plenty of choice for the whole family.

We all enjoyed the homemade pastas, the fresh salad selection, the authentic woodfired pizzas and the carvery station… and we had just enough space left over for a selection of delicious desserts (the tiramisu was a particular stand-out). Bright and spacious, the restaurant’s comfy booths, along with plenty of highchairs for littlies, make this a welcoming spot with really excellent food.

After lunch, it was time to hit the pool – another of Sheraton’s major plus points.

The pool complex features two distinct areas – Jaya and Sala – which offer the choice between kid-friendly shallows in which to wade, or deeper lap pools designed for fitness. Both areas are surrounded by daybeds, along with shady private cabanas to hire. There’s a family-friendly movie screened at the Sala poolside every Saturday night at 5pm, and you really can’t persuade them to towel off, you can refuel at one of

The “Little Big Club” show at The Sheraton Grand Macao

the two pool cafés.

But for us, it was off for more family fun at the “Thomas and The Little Big Club All-Stars” party. An interactive show that enables kids to get up close and personal with favourite characters such as Barney, Fireman Sam, Bob The Builder and, of course, Thomas The Tank Engine, this daily event also encourages kids to participate in fun challenges such as learning archery with Mike The Knight or taking a ballet class with Angelina Ballerina. Admission includes snacks and drinks, and we found this to be fun for both boys, although the show is probably best suited to kids up to around six years old.

That evening saw us heading for a DIY dinner at Xin, the Sheraton’s dedicated hotpot restaurant. Inspired by Asian seafood markets, this is a great introduction to tableside cooking for kids, as you are allocated individual pots with a choice of spicy or non-spicy broth in which to cook your selection from the buffet. The hotpot choices feature a variety of meat, seafood and plenty of vegetarian options too, and we found that, with careful supervision, the concept was a fun way for the boys to have their say at the dinner table, with clear plates all round.

Somehow we managed to find the space the following day to enjoy another extensive buffet – this time at Feast, the Sheraton’s allday dining restaurant. And as our boys are dedicated early risers, we had plenty of time to hit the pool again for a relaxed morning of fun before – reluctantly – winding our way back home.

Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, Macau; +853 2880 2000. sheratongrandmacao.com expat-parent.com 43

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Grand Coloane Resort Macau Away from the glitzy Cotai Strip, we found a quiet spot to kick down a gear and enjoy sand, sea… and a seriously good pool.

Formerly a Westin property, the Grand Coloane Resort has long since been an excellent option for those looking for a quieter getaway than you’d usually associate with Macau. It had been recommended to me on numerous occasions as a particularly good choice for families with kids, so when my seven-year-old was invited to play at a Macanese mini-rugby tournament, we took the opportunity to extend our stay and check out the quieter side of Macau.

The entertainment never stops

Just a 15-minute cab ride from the Cotai Strip, the Grand Coloane Resort benefits from plenty of space, meaning that even the standard rooms (known as “Superior”) come in at over 700 square feet, with ample space for either a king or two double beds, along with a large marble bathroom with both a tub and a walk-in shower. Although admittedly not the most attractive building from a distance, the hotel’s rather singular design has resulted in every room benefitting from a large outdoor terrace, something that we took full advantage of, enjoying a bottle of wine once the boys were happily tucked up in bed that evening – interconnecting rooms are also available.

Grand Coloane Resort Macau

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After checking out our digs, with sweeping views out over the South China Sea, it was time to investigate the hotel’s biggest draw: its sprawling pool complex, which sits within manicured grounds planted with pretty tropical flowers and shrubs, surrounded by shady terraces set with loungers and tables. As with the room, the pool area’s sheer size meant that it was easy to keep our two water babies happily splashing and jumping without disturbing anyone around us. The outdoor pool complex also includes a Jacuzzi, although this is strictly adults-only, as well as a small playground area with a climbing frame that my three-year-old thoroughly enjoyed. An added bonus comes in the form of a large indoor heated pool, meaning that there was no need to deviate from our intended afternoon of swimming when a thunderstorm briefly forced us indoors.

After all that exercise, we decided to stroll along the black-sand Hac Sa beach to check out another Macanese institution, Fernando’s restaurant. Set in an inviting garden, this Portuguese eatery has been feeding hungry patrons since 1986 and has perfected its formula: generous portions of great quality food in a relaxed setting, at great prices. The boys happily tucked into suckling pig, fresh clams, home-grown tomatoes and warm hunks of homemade bread, while we enjoyed a bottle of vinho verde under the restaurant’s gently twirling fans. The enclosed garden makes this a good choice for those eating with kids, as they can safely explore while parents enjoy a relaxed evening meal.

travel We had originally planned to spend the following day exploring the area on one of the Grand Coloane’s rental bikes, however we parents were overruled and so it was back to the pool until everyone’s rumbling tummies alerted us that it was time to investigate the hotel’s weekend brunch at Café Panorama. The extensive buffet, along with the live barbecue station on the outdoor terrace, an additional free-flow option and a kids’ bouncy castle, was a convenient choice that enabled us to extend our visit just a little longer, and transformed our overnight stay into a full weekend away.

1918 Estrada de Hac Sac, Coloane, Macau; +853 2887 1111. grandcoloane.com

Kids’ room at The Parisian Macao

After lunch it was time to hit the pool. And The Sheraton didn’t disappoint

Parisian Macao At the other end of the glitz-and-glamour scale, you’ll find the Parisian Macao, a relatively new addition to the Sands luxury complex. Opened in 2016, the hotel has quickly become a local landmark, due mostly to its unmistakable half-sized replica of the Eiffel Tower. We set off to investigate a familyfriendly stay with a distinctly French accent.

As with its sister property, The Venetian, to stay at the Parisian is to check in to an allencompassing parallel universe where you wander through quaint streets packed with designer boutiques, under a mid-summer sky that evokes long European summer evenings. Our total immersion began as we entered the hotel to see a multi-storeyed fountain playing, then checked in at a lavishly decorated atrium modelled on the classical décor of the Palace of Versailles.

After all that mind-boggling grandeur, I was actually pleasantly surprised by the understated contemporary décor in our room – definitely more understated minimalism than swaggering opulence, and all the better for it. While the Parisian has dedicated family rooms, complete with cute touches such as bunk beds for kids, a magnetic wall board and dedicated children’s bathroom

amenities, we had opted for a suite. This enables parents to sit and relax in the living area when the kids head to bed and is a welcome respite from our usual “silentlyhunched-over-an-iPad-in-the-dark” routine when travelling as a family. With a brandspanking-new marble bathroom and even a dedicated walk-in-wardrobe, the suite – which comes with either a king or two queen beds – provides plenty of space when travelling together.

After unpacking (with a walk-in-wardrobe it seemed rude not to), we set out to explore the hotel’s family entertainment options.

At over 20,000 square feet, Qube Kingdom is open to kids aged all the way up to 18, and features rocket-themed climbing areas, slides, nets, a ball pool, video games and a screening area that plays kids’ movies throughout the day. Outside you’ll find even more play space, along with a charming

Kids’ entertainment area at The Parisian Macao

traditional carousel that would look right at home in the Jardin de Luxembourg. While entry to Qube Kingdom costs MOP130 for two hours, it can be combined with a ticket to Aqua World that allows entry to both attractions within 24 hours for MOP200.

And if you’re here with kids, you should definitely factor Aqua World into your plans.

With a life-sized Jules Verne-esque ship complete with water cannons, sprinklers, fountains, pools and slides galore, this is an absolutely unmissable activity for anyone with water babies. A slightly more serene experience awaits just opposite at the hotel’s pool complex, which consists of a lap pool, Jacuzzi areas and plenty of lounger space.

This would be a great option for those travelling with slightly older kids, as you could easily let them loose at Aqua World before kicking back with a cocktail and a book next door.

After our afternoon of adventure, it was time for dinner at Brasserie. As the name suggests, you’ll find a classic French menu here, including steak tartare, moules-frites and escargots, along with an extensive French wine list. The kids’ menu is both authentic and charming, with signatures such as galettes (Breton buckwheat crêpes), steak haché (burger) and pastas, along with crème brûlée and traditional French lemonade made with a trademark dash of grenadine syrup.

We burnt off our meal with a little retail therapy. Part of the sprawling Sands complex, the Parisian is linked to the Four Seasons along with the Venetian, making it easy – if tiring – to explore the staggering 850 stores within the development. After a few purchases it was time to head back to the Parisian for a good night’s rest in the suite.

After breakfast at Le Buffet, the Parisian’s all-day dining restaurant, we had just enough time for another dip in the pool before heading over to the Parisian’s most prominent attraction, the Eiffel Tower. Riding the lift 37 floors to the upper observation deck, we were struck by the impressive views over Macau and beyond to neighbouring Zhuhai. Designed as an exact half-sized replica of the original, the tower offers Francophiles a fun alternative to taking a long-haul flight – with the added benefit of far shorter queues! Selfies snapped, it was time to head back down to Versailles for our checkout before returning to the real world – and to Asia – once again.

Estrada do Istmo, Lote 3, Cotai Strip, Macau; +853 2882 8827 parisianmacao.com expat-parent.com 45

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Hot spots Summer souvenirs are not always happy memories, discovers our mum

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e have had a lovely, sunny summer. We have transported the entire family to Europe, spent time with extended family, driven the length of French motorways, shepherded the flock dutifully around dusty old churches and monuments, toured towns, swum in lakes and swimming pools, played countless games of UNO and Gin Rummy, practised times tables, stocked up on school paraphernalia for the new academic year – in short, we are all ready for “back-to-school”, or “la rentrée” as they so succinctly put it in France.

I am actually exhausted. Obviously it’s lovely being surrounded by the children for the holidays; I am a “#proudmamma” on Instagram and “Loving the long break!” on Facebook. But in reality I am more than ready for them all to disappear back to class.

So we find ourselves on a scorching summer’s morning standing smartly, albeit rather wiltedly, in approximately 40 billion degrees of heat and goodness only knows how much humidity at the school bus stop.

I am joined by my neighbour and her three children.

“Gorgeous summer!” she trills.

“Fancy a coffee once the bus has gone?”

I ask.

“Oh my god, yes,” she enthuses. “I’m bloody exhausted!”

“Mum,” mumbles the Boy Child, screwing up his eyes against the ferocious Asian sun.

“I’ve got a tummy ache.”

“You’re fine darling!” I rejoinder quickly.

“It’s just the heat!” Oh my god, I can’t do sick days for at least another month. Plus I’ve got a “Welcome back to Hong Kong” lunch with the tennis team today.

Just then, the bus trundles up and they all reluctantly climb aboard. I repair back to the house for coffee with my neighbour to dissect the events of the summer.

And so my first day of “freedom” passes by relatively uneventfully. The lunch is lovely – and cheap, just the one salad and a glass of wine – no ketchup required, no ice creams, no plates of fries. Heavens, I’m almost starting to miss the kids.

But before I have time to dwell further on that somewhat surprising thought, the bus is back and they’re all climbing exhaustedly off and asking what’s for tea.

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Our columnist is a longsuffering expat wife, and mother to several energetic, third-culture children.

She lives in Hong Kong.

“I still don’t feel well,” complains the Boy Child. “I’ve got an itchy tummy.”

Back home, I strip him down under the air con and – horrors – his stomach is covered in spots.

To be fair it doesn’t come as a total surprise.

Following a rambunctious weekend with the French cousins, I received an email from my sister-in-law the following week informing me that two of her offspring had been struck with the dreaded chicken pox. To my utter relief, and after rifling through tatty old baby books at the bottom of the filing cabinet, it transpires that in a particularly organised moment in the distant past I had all of mine immunised. Phew.

Only it turns out I should have had them immunised twice. That’s the problem with trying to manage immunisation schedules set in one country and carrying them out in totally different other countries. If you’re as bad with paperwork as I am, you end up with randomly immunised children who possibly don’t have immunity to

anything very much at all. Or possibly overimmunisation.

Rats, I think, heading to the chemist for chamomile lotion. Double rats, I mumble, as the Blonde Child wakes up on Day 2 of the new school term also covered in spots. I now have two out of four children lolling around the house glued to iPads, and the Tween Child is also complaining of a headache. Grrr.

And then my neighbour emails. “Oh no! The children appear to be covered in spots! Just a heads up in case your guys catch it!”

I fleetingly consider feigning surprise but decide in the interests of healthy on-going neighbourly relations that I need to come clean.

“Although it’s a Parisian variant,” I add for good measure at the bottom of my WhatsApp reply.

I’m not sure if this will make it better somehow, maybe a chic-er or more cultured version of spots?

By midday even the school has got involved.

A round-robin email pops up informing us that Years 2, 4 and 6 seem to have been affected by a chicken pox outbreak. “Please check your children for spots.” The recommended time to be spent away from the school premises is two weeks. Good god. I can imagine a lot of handwringing amongst the other mothers so I stick to a vague “tummy ache” absence excuse email to the primary school administrator, hinting more towards possible heat stroke than the Pox. If rumour gets out that it was my children who introduced a highly contagious disease into the school just as everyone is joyously returning their children to class after the long holidays, my name will be social mud until at least Chinese New Year. I know I can count on my neighbour to keep her lips sealed – she owes me one after I took over Year 4 netball coaching in the spring so she could go on a school reunion to Phuket.

However, it turns out that all the other mummies must have been a lot more organised than me and managed the double immunisation, as I learn via my Mahjong group on Thursday that practically nobody else is absent.

And although it’s annoying to have four malingering children draped around the house whining that they’re bored, so far I’ve missed a bake sale, a dress-up day, a Year 4 piano recital and a school assembly. Which begs the question, maybe I am one of life’s winners after all?

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