Hong Kong Living October 2021

DINING | DATING | BEAUTY | HAUNTED HOUSES

hongkongliving.com

Life is beautiful The best CBD spa treatments

Shh it’s a secret Discover the best speakeasies in town

Shine bright like a diamond Sharon Chan on why lab-grown diamonds are the future

OCT 2021

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CONTENT S — 1 0 / 2 1

16 COVER STORY

Meet lab-grown diamond jewellery designer Sharon Shan

2 EDITOR’S LETTER

Hello from the hot desk

4 CONTRIBUTORS

Meet the team

Out and about in Central

8 THE PLANNER

What’s on in October

10 NEWS

19 DINING

34 PETS

The spooky history behind Sai Ying Pun Community Complex

The best speakeasies in town

26 BEAUTY

Relax with these CBD beauty treatments

Valentina Tudose on finding yourself after a breakup

36 BACKPAGE

30 BIG DAY OUT

Here’s what’s written in the stars for you this month

35 HONG KONG DATING

The importance of sustainability in schools

Rory Mackay explore’s Cape D’Aguilar

Laura Lee, Chief Representative of The Fred Hollows Foundation

Dr Pauline Taylor answers your pet questions

24 EDUCATION

What’s happening in our backyard

13 FIVE MINUTES WITH

32 HOROSCOPES

6 PEOPLE

15 LOCAL

Nury Vittachi on digital money

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10

6

30

16

88

19

“Diamonds are a girls best friend” ~ Marilyn Monroe

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EDITOR’S LETTER Hong Kong is back to business with events, openings and pop-ups taking place across the city. With so much happening it’s hard to keep up (trust us we’ve tried). We’ve packed in the best places to go, people to meet and more in this exciting issue.

Our cover star this month is Sharon Chan, founder of SHAN Stones.

Specialising in lab-grown diamonds, she believes we don’t need to hurt the planet to get something beautiful. Chan takes us through the process of creating a diamond and her inspiration in our cover story (page 16).

With the cozy months coming up, duck down into some of the city’s best speakeasies (page 19) for a late night catch up. If you fancy a lighter experience, our avid hiker Rory Mackay takes you around Cape D’Aguilar in Southside (page 14).

In support of World Sight Day (October 14), we sat down with Laura Lee talk about the importance of eye health and how to prevent vision loss in our Five Minutes With interview (page 12).

Let the countdown to Christmas officially begin!

Editorial Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Features Editor Cheyelene Fontanilla, cheyelene@hongkongliving.com Senior Writer Charmaine Ng, charmaineng@hongkongliving.com

Design Senior Graphic Designer Vicky Lam, vicky@hongkongliving.com

Sales & Marketing Director of Content Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Partnership Manager Debbie Ky, debbie@hongkongliving.com Elaine Li, elaine@hongkongliving.com Janessa Chan, janessa@hongkongliving.com Events Manager Pranali Gupta, pranali@hongkongliving.com

Publisher Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com

Things we love

Contact us 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

hongkongliving.com talk@hongkongliving.com

Bombay Dreams new look

Hong Kong Influencer Awards

After 18-years, one of the city's most iconic Indian restaurants has had a make-over and moved to a new location on Wyndham Street.

The location offers a light and open interior with large French windows and elements of brass and bronze dotted throughout the restaurant. ​

This month Hong Kong Living is celebrating 50 of the city’s top leaders, pioneers and news-makers in their field. Keep your eyes peeled for our Influencer Guide coming out later this month and stay tuned for the results on our website hongkongliving.com

Covid-19 update

As Hong Kong Living goes to print we have done our best to keep our content as accurate and up-to-date as possible, but life under Covid-19 regulations means things tend to change, often from day-to-day. Please check with local businesses for operation hours and services available and remember, stay safe.

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@hongkongliving @hongkongliving852

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

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CONTRIBUTORS

Patrick Ho

Sharon Chan

Patrick Ho has accumulated over 10 years of experience in the education consulting industry and is responsible for coaching and developing college application methodologies for students wanting to get accepted into U.S. and U.K. boarding schools. This month he shares his thoughts on using visual records for school interviews in our education column.

Our cover star this month is Sharon Chan, founder of SHAN Stones, a jewellery brand which uses lab-grown diamonds to create affordable jewellery for everyone. She shares her thoughts behind lab-grown diamonds and her inspiration for the brand in our cover story.

Danny Harrington As the founder and Director of ITS Education Asia, Danny Harrington is passionate about learnercentred education and has taught since 1997. He talks about the importance of sustainability and how schools should consider sustainability in a range of ways in our education feature.

Keren Goldman Keren Goldman grew up surrounded by nature and was taught to love all growing things by her Father. As founder of Keren’s Garden, she knows a thing or two about looking after plants and shares her top five tips in this month’s gardening column.

Valentina Tudose Nury Vittachi Our monthly backpage columnist Nury Vittachi is a Hong Kong-based author of more than 40 books. His journalism has appeared in more than a dozen publications and is now editor of Friday magazine at fridayeveryday.com

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Certified relationship coach and clinical hypnotherapist Valentina Tudose, shares her advice on finding yourself after a breakup in our monthly dating column.

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PEOPLE

Full Moon Charity Yoga with Outdoor Yoga HK

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SNAPPED

Out and about in Central

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PLANNER

Mark your calendars for these October events

OCT 6,13 & 20

Happy Wednesday Races The horse racing season is back at Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Happy Valley Races. Eat, drink and (hopefully) win big this season. $10. Hong Kong Jockey Club Happy Valley Racecourse, Wong Nai Chung Road. happywednesday.hkjc.com

UNTIL OCT 29

Pink Together 2021 Hong Kong Breast Cancer Foundation is proud to launch the second virtual Pink Together walk to raise public awareness for breast cancer and breast health, while raising vital funds. Participants can donate a small enrolment fee which goes directly to the charity and count the steps taken until October 29 for a chance to win a prize. $350. pinktogether.hk

OCT 1

National Day Relax and enjoy the long weekend!

OCT 2

Got Soul The Got Group are back with a new live music concept featuring The Latino Azucar. Each attendee will receive an ‘opt in’ card and a Got Soul menu of songs to choose from. As the night unravels, guests will have the opportunity to put themselves forward to perform. 7:30pm. $300.

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Grappa’s Cellar, Lee Garden two, Causeway Bay. thegotgroup.live

OCT 8-11

China Coast Regatta Based out of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club’s Middle Island Clubhouse, sailors will compete in a variety of windward, leeward, geometric and island courses. Competing yachts can expect the best of Hong Kong’s sailing conditions; excellent breeze, blue skies, warm friendly waters and great parties. rhkyc.org.hk

OCT 8-11

Fine Art Asia Asia’s leading international fine art fair showcasing Asian and Western antiques, jewellery, photography and modern and contemporary art. $120. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. fineartasia.com

OCT 9-10

IVE Cocktail Exhibition Find your perfect cocktail and learn how to make it from professional bartenders and mixologists. Free. 6pm. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai.

Facebook: IVE Cocktail Exhibition

OCT 9-10

Walking the Amazon Award-winning bilingual learning theatre, The Absolutely Fabulous Theatre Connection (AFTEC), will debut their acclaimed production of Walking the Amazon as part of their Classics for Juniors

WHAT’S ON 2021 series. From $160. Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre Theatre. urbtix.hk

OCT 15-17

Hong Kong Ballet: Sleeping Beauty Experience the beloved fairy-tale of good versus evil and a love that spans a hundred years in Cynthia Harvey’s glorious production of The Sleeping Beauty. From $140. Grande Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre. hkballet.com

OCT 17

Wild Sunday Hike & Run Run around Aberdeen Country park in the series of challenges including 24km, 12km and 9km. The top three winners in each category will receive a trophy and prize. $250. 9am. Start at Aberdeen P.H.A.B. Barbecue Site. xterace.com

UNTIL OCT 31

Hong Kong Disneyland Haunted Halloween Celebrations Celebrate early and skip the Halloween-hungry crowds. Trick or treat with Disney characters, enjoy the ghostly parade and revel in the pumpkin patches and haunted mansions. 10.30am–11pm. Starts at $639. Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island. hongkongdisneyland.com

OCT 14

Chung Yeung Festival Another public holiday, aren’t we spoilt?

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NEWS

THE PAWN CLOSES ITS DOORS Situated in the iconic Woo Cheong Pawn Shop in Wan Chai, The Pawn was a staple in Hong Kong’s restaurant scene. On September 13, the European brasserie stopped service and was taken over by the Classified Group.

Plans have been announced for the unique venue to transform into a Chinese restaurant and bar. As a final farewell the team served an exclusive chef’s tasting menu celebrating its most beloved dishes.

MARKS & SPENCER OPENS ITS NEW FLAGSHIP STORE The popular British retailer opened its new flagship store in Cityplaza last month, spanning an impressive 30,973 square feet. The new store offers a wider range of products for those who are missing home, including 270 new chilled food lines, a cheese

REDRESS DESIGN AWARDS 2021 RESULTS On a mission to reduce fashion waste, the Redress Design Awards is the world’s largest sustainable fashion design competition, showcasing what is possible when emerging designs are given an opportunity to innovate around sustainability. This year was the 10th awards and received applications from designers in over 58 countries and regions. The final 10 competed in a fashion show on September 11 where emerging designer Jessica Chang from Taiwan took home the first prize. “Entering this complex industry as an emerging designer is daunting because, so often, everywhere we look we see bad news and complexity. We know we can bring change. Yet it is hard to magnify our big ideas as start-up designers. This award has given me confidence - we are all in this together to make a positive change,” said Jessica.

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chiller, more organic and gluten-free baked goods and most excitingly, a dedicated Percy Shop for the beloved character. Shoppers can also enjoy the new coffee-to-go counter if they fancy a well-earned break mid-shop. marksandspencer.com

IN YOUR BACKYARD

SHARK SPECIES PROTECTED IN HONG KONG

4.34 MILLION HONGKONGERS ARE NOW VACCINATED Hong Kong residents are slowly becoming more accepting of Covid vaccinations as the numbers of inoculated people climbs to 4.34 million, of which 3.81 million have received both doses. Local National People’s Congress Standing Committee delegate Tam-Yiu Chung says that he is optimistic that when Hong Kong reaches 5 million vaccinated residents by the end of the month, it would be enough to ease restrictions. The government also announced that they will allow vaccinated residents to return to the city from five additional countries and relaxed restrictions on travelers from mainland China. Of the 4.34 million, 1.57 million have received the Sinovac vaccine while about 2.41 million have opted for the BioNTech vaccine.

Hong Kong’s lawmakers have voted in favour of classifying wildlife crimes including selling, buying and importing endangered shark fin species as organized and serious crime. This new law gives Hong Kong authorities the power to detect, disrupt, dismantle and ultimately deter the international criminal networks responsible for the unsustainable exploitation

of endangered species. The city currently classifies 12 shark species as protected under this law including sawfishes, basking sharks, whale sharks, white sharks and hammerhead sharks. The Hong Kong Shark Foundation has stated this law as “a game changer in the fight against the illegal wildlife trade, not just for Hong Kong, but regionally and globally.”

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FIVE MINUTES WITH

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FIVE MINUTES WITH

Five minutes with Laura Lee

Ahead of World Sight Day (October 14) Nicole Slater meets The Fred Hollows Foundation’s Chief Representative

While eye health is a serious issue in rural countries, it is also an issue right here in Hong Kong. The city has some of the highest myopia rates in the world, affecting more than 40 percent of school children from the age of eight.

“With a lot of students attending classes in front of the screen, a recent study by the Chinese University of Hong Kong shows a 2.5-fold increase in myopia in children during the pandemic.”

“We are so fortunate to live in a city where we have high-quality medical services. Eye services are always in reach and we don’t need to travel far to access them.” Lee advises Hongkongers to book an eye check for themselves and loved ones every two years, take regular breaks from screens, and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration in their eyes. To lower the risk of myopia in children, the most effective way is to play outdoors for one to two hours everyday.

With World Sight Day coming up on October 14, The Fred Hollows Foundation hopes to raise global awareness about eye health and funds for the Double Your Impact campaign.

The foundation was first started by Australian ophthalmologist Professor Fred Hollows 29 years ago and has become one of the leading organisations for international eye health development. The foundation is on a mission to bring sustainable change to eye health care by strengthening the local eye health workforce and giving communities the chance to help themselves.

As the Chief Representative of The Fred Hollows Foundation’s Hong Kong and ASEAN headquarters, Laura Lee is passionate about bringing more attention to eye health across the city and globally.

With a background in international human rights law and a career trajectory that spans from Malaysia and Thailand to Hong Kong and South Korea, Lee has over a decade of experience as a humanitarian aid worker and business development professional. Since

joining the foundation in 2018, Lee has been an active voice for females affected by the gender gap in healthcare.

“The Foundation places women and girls at the center of our programming. Of the 1.1 billion people with vision loss, 55 percent are women and most live in low and middle-income countries.” Due to gender imbalance in many communities, men control the family finances and their medical needs are prioritised. Girls often have to leave school to care for their relatives who have gone blind, missing out on education, they often become stuck in poverty as adults themselves – and so do their children.

Through the community-based outreach service, The Fred Hollows Foundation is reaching out to women in remote and rural villages where eye disease remains largely undiagnosed and untreated. “We are training women to become eye doctors, health workers and eye health professionals. One of the best long-term ways to encourage women to visit hospitals and eye clinics is for there to be more female faces working in the health system.”

Double Your Impact campaign All donations made to the Double Your Impact campaign will be matched dollar for dollar by a supporting corporation, up to the value of $500,000 until midnight October 31. The fund will go to training the next generation of eye health professionals, organising eye screening camps in remote areas and providing equipment. hollows.org

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FIVE MINUTES WITH

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LOCAL

The High Street Ghost House Nicole Slater explores the dark history of the Sai Ying Pun Community Complex

Located on the corner of High Street and Eastern Street, Sai Ying Pun Community Complex is a Grade I Historic Building in the heart of the city. Featuring arched verandahs and pitched tiled roofs, this monument represents a dark history for Hong Kong.

Originally built in 1892, the building served as quarters for international nursing staff of the Civil Hospital. It contained ten bedrooms for the nurses, a matron’s office, a laboratory and 12 servants’ quarters, as well as other living facilities. But when nearby asylums became overcrowded, the nurses’ quarters were converted into a 23-bed hospital for mentally ill female patients. During this time its primary function was to take care of patients being transferred to China or other countries.

During World War II the site was believed to be used as an execution ground by the Japanese, with thousands of bodies dumped in a mass grave just across the road. Upon the completion of the war, the building went back to housing mentally ill patients until the opening of Castle Peak Hospital in 1961, when patients were eventually transferred and the Sai Ying Pun location was abandoned in 1970.

The old mental hospital sat vacant for 20 years and became the location for many ghost tales and sightings, giving it the nickname of the High Street Ghost House. Many residents in the area reported sightings of headless ghosts wandering the corridors and curious teenagers visited

at night in the hopes of spotting one. The reports were so widely spread that people avoided moving to the area completely.

After two fires devastated the building, the Hong Kong Government decided to put some love back into it. Over the course of three years, the building’s exterior was restored but the interior was so badly damaged that they decided to modernise it, turning the building into a community center, housing several charity organisations.

While the building has now overcome its dark history, many believe that the lost souls remain inside to this day, so keep your eyes peeled after the sun goes down.

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COVER STORY

Saving the world one diamond at a time

Jewellery designer and founder of SHAN, Sharon Chan, on why lab-grown diamonds are the future. By Nicole Slater

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DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER

Diamonds have a long history in our society since the rise of diamond engagement rings in 1947. But while their sparkle is second-tonone, the environmental and ethical impact of the gem has been debated over the past few years. This saw the rise of the lab-grown diamond, a scientifically crafted diamond sharing the same chemical, physical and optical properties as mined diamonds.

These environmentally friendly and ethical diamonds were the inspiration behind Sharon Chan’s jewellery brand, SHAN. “I started SHAN two years ago as I wanted every girl to own a piece of extraordinary jewellery without spending a fortune,” says Chan. Along with their ethical values, lab-grown diamonds are around the third of the price of a natural diamond making luxury jewellery more affordable to everyone. “It makes our dream reachable as the technology improves, we can get bigger and better quality diamonds.”

While Chan has always had a passion for jewellery and design, it was the birth of

her daughter, Shannon, who gave her the final push to start her own brand, whom she named the brand after. “Shannon is a mini me, passionate, calm and persistent. She knows exactly what she wants and goes for it.” At just two and a half years old, Shannon is already helping Chan match her jewellery with her outfits. For her first birthday, Chan grew Shannon a 1.05 carat diamond to represent her age and her birth month, May.

Taking inspiration from jewellery designer Jean Schlumberger, Chan enjoys designing and playing around with bespoke pieces for her clients, but keeps her everyday collection simple, elegant and chic. “I love the smiles on my clients’ faces when they collect their jewellery. I like to believe that my jewellery has brightened up their day just a little.”

Running a full time business while looking after two young children was a challenge for Chan, especially during one of the most difficult years economically, but she is grateful that everything fell in her favour and SHAN continues to grow every day. “I think we can all agree that every day is a challenge when you are running your own business, but I enjoy solving problems and embracing challenges. Every time I make a mistake I learn something from it so I’m truly growing with the brand.”

The saying, do something you love and you won’t have to work a day in your life, has been something Chan has followed for years and is proud to have reached a point in her life and career where she feels this way.

Over the next few years Chan hopes to be an advocate for lab-grown diamonds and expand SHAN internationally. “There are no blood diamonds and the entire production process is transparent and safe. We don’t have to hurt our planet to get something beautiful.”

SHAN Stones For more information about Sharon Chan and SHAN please visit shanstones.com

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DINING

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DINING

Please Don’t Tell

Shh it’s a secret

Nicole Slater rounds up the best speakeasies for a late night rendezvous

Stockton

Room 309

Fancy a late night tipple? Located down a hidden alleyway on Wyndham Street, Stockton specialises in whiskey but offers a variety of Darwinian evolution inspired cocktails too. The wooden interiors, leather sofas and candle lit archways make it the perfect place to end any date night. stockton.com.hk

Surprise your date with a night away, or so it seems. Located on the third floor of The Pottinger Hotel this intimate bar sits just 20 people and puts a modern twist on classic cocktails. Collect your keycard at reception and enter the most unique hotel room in town. room309.hk

The Wise King Step back in time to the 13th century with The Wise King’s warm and luxurious interiors fit for a king. Tucked away on Staunton Street, its name and concept are inspired by Alfonso X, the 13thcentury king of Castile who stated that alcohol should not be served without food. thewiseking.com

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SPEAKEASIES

Finding Daisy Since opening a few months ago, Finding Daisy has made its mark on Soho’s bar scene for its cozy interiors and affordable cocktails. The theatre-themed bar is tucked away on Elgin Street and is headed by seasoned Hong Kong bartenders Max Bajracharya and Rai Amrit.

The Old Man Needing no introduction, The Old Man has won multiple awards for its unique decor and cocktails, including the Hong Kong Living’s Bar of the Year in 2020. The stylish and intimate, Ernest Hemingway- inspired bar is tucked away

on Aberdeen Street and offers a variety of quirky cocktails. theoldmanhongkong.com

Dr Ferns Gin Parlor If you need to update your gin prescription, Dr Ferns Gin Parlor has an extensive selection of gins from around the world. Head down to the waiting room in the Landmark Atrium before enjoying a specially made drink. You can’t argue with the doctor’s orders! mingfathouse.com

Twenty Fifth Hour Lose track of time at Stanley Street’s newest bar, Twenty Fifth Hour. This hidden bar is all about

celebrating that extra hour with an extensive range of cocktails themed around the concept of time by head mixologist Kenzo Lee. xxvhr.com

Please don’t tell No hidden bar roundup is complete without a mention of The Landmark Mandarin Oriental’s bar, Please Don’t Tell. Step inside the secret phone booth on the mezzanine floor and enter the streets of New York with legendary cocktails from the bar’s first location in NYC, including the Benton’s Old Fashioned and Big Fan. mandarinoriental.com

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NIBBLES

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DINING

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NIBBLES

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EDUCATION

Sustainability in schools Danny Harrington, founder and Director of ITS Education Asia on the latest key part of the school choice process School selection in Hong Kong has undergone a huge transformation over the last 15 years, as the number of international schools has grown and the range of people considering them has broadened. Before that, it was often a case of which ESF catchment do I fall in? Or, where do my friends’ children go to school? Now we are

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all aware of considering a variety of elements such as school size, class size, curriculum, facilities, location, ethos and so on. I think we should now unquestionably add an element with at least equal importance to these for the 21st century - sustainability.

Sustainability is now very much at the forefront of mainstream consciousness.

The terrible outcomes of our unsustainable approaches through (especially) the last 50 years are now at the top of the media stories we consume every day; be they economic hardships, social inequalities, or, of course, environmental impacts. The idea of a sustainable approach to modern and future life has also gained prominence, especially

SUSTAINABILITY

with the United Nations.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide an overarching framework for inter-governmental discussion and policymaking, all of which filters down to us at community level. And schools are very much communities. It makes sense, therefore, that schools should consider sustainability in a range of ways so that they can be confident that they are sustainable in themselves and that they are contributing to a sustainable world around them. But ultimately, this all comes down to us as individuals. Our actions and behaviours contribute to the level of sustainability we achieve and our opinions and demands contribute to how

communities and governments act, creating, ideally, a virtuous circle of action and policy to move us into a more sustainable future.

The last few years have seen huge strides in the Hong Kong international school community to address these issues of sustainability. And what has been very pleasing has been the way in which so much of this has been student driven.

In my mind, youth voices, initiatives and actions are key characteristics of a vibrant, modern, sustainable community. The days of dismissing teenagers as “too young” or “too inexperienced” are over. This generation is digitally native, extremely well-informed, better educated at an earlier stage and is engaged with global crises, angry that they have happened and determined to do something about it.

We see a range of student initiatives at many schools: the sustainability audit at CIS driven by Drop in the Ocean (DITO); Wanbo at Island School; the Global Goals Council (GGC) at CDNIS, to name just a few. ESF schools all have a staff member appointed as Sustainability Rep and the ESF has engaged with The Nature Conservancy to create NatureWorks across all ESF schools.

Many schools have installed solar panels, are looking at water recycling, dealing with the types of stationery they purchase, banning single-use plastic and so on. This is a wonderful range of advocacy and action.

Increasingly, we are also seeing SDG Education creep into the curriculum. This is harder as schools have to prioritise their core curriculum such as A-level or IB, but it is possible. There are opportunities within certain subjects like Geography to use the SDGs as a framework for existing curriculum content. Some schools have allowed their PSHE lessons to be used for SDG education sessions. At my own school, we have initiated a full SDG oriented programme called the Young Changemaker Incubator and also taken on a range of UN courses to make SDG Education more directly accessible to students who want it, both those enrolled with us or any other student in Hong Kong who wishes to do it as a cocurricular activity.

The sustainability activity of a school now needs to be a high-priority element in parents’ reasons for choosing it. This is one of the many ways we , as parents, can actively do our part in driving sustainability ever forward. Schools will accelerate their drive to be sustainable and to teach the SDGs Our children will become even more engaged and be “sustainability natives” so that their choices and actions as individuals, employees and business owners, and policy-makers in the future are sustainably minded.

A true talent Patrick Ho, on using visual records for school interviews Students endure endless hours of practice until at long last, they obtain the coveted certification, a hallmark of their achievement. Yet, with countless Grade 8 pianists, musicians, athletes, artists, how can one truly distinguish themselves?

In a school application, you can only merely list out performances or competitions you’ve taken part in or certificates you have achieved. There is little room to physically showcase your artistic talents as you cannot sing or start drawing in the middle of a school interview. That is why you should make a visual record of your work. As schools increasingly embrace technology, many schools now welcome students to submit an electronic portfolio as part of their application. You can upload your artistic or sporting performances on a video streaming platform, showcase your artwork or share your written work on a blog.

Start recording your electronic footprint now as it will come in handy.

As a Senior Admissions Counselor, Patrick Ho has over 10 years of experience in the education consulting industry. His mission is to empower students to be the best they can be.

Contact him via patrick.ho@kaplan.com

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BEAUTY

And relax…..

Nicole Slater rounds up the best CBD treatments around town

Balance Health’s Deluxe Facial CBD Package

Aromatherapy Massages at Cannable Spa

Combining a CBD Facial Acuglow Treatment with a Lift & Glow Facial Rejuvenation, Balance Health’s newest Deluxe Facial CBD Package is $2,400 and offers a unique mix of modern and traditional therapies to help relax and rejuvenate the skin. The treatment begins with a consultation with the health clinic’s Chinese medicine practitioner, Michelle Zhang before a 50-minute

Located in the heart of Sheung Wan, Hong Kong’s first dedicated CBD spa is offering three massage treatments including an aromatherapy massage, Thai massage and a muscle release massage, all using CBDinfused oils. Each massage is accompanied by a CBD-infused tea to help unwind after the treatment. Instagram: cannable__

Bliss spa’s CBD Restorative Healing Experience

facial acupuncture session to release energy and endorphins in the face. The second part of the treatment includes a facial by bodywork therapist and energy healer, Hafsa Khan, using CBD infused oils and creams to accelerate muscle recovery, relieve stress and improve sleep. balancehealth.com.hk

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For a full day of pampering, bliss spa at W Hong Kong is offering a CBD restorative healing experience for $3,500.

The package includes a 90-minute CBD massage using a range of cannabidiol infused oils, followed by a 30-minute treatment of your choice. The experience continues outside the treatment room with a seasonal CBD cocktail or tea, access to the WET®️ pool, jacuzzi and gym and a CBD sweet sleep pillow mist to take home. marriott.com

CBD TREATMENTS and natural products. Their signature treatment is a 75-minute CBD facial journey for $1,400. Starting with a relaxing CBD infused tea the treatment includes a deep cleansing and extended massage using CBD oil, followed by a CBD nano mask and oxygen dome to deeply treat and heal fresh skin.

After the facial guests can enjoy a CBD coffee and cookie to complete the journey. lebeau-hk.com

CBD Sleep Therapy at The Oriental Spa To help to reduce the effects of Hong Kong’s fast-paced lifestyle, The Oriental Spa’s new CBD Sleep Therapy starts at $1,800 and includes a 90-minute full body massage focusing on various pressure points to promote a restful sleep and ease anxiety. The treatment combines natural CBD ingredients from Kiara’s naturally grown,

pesticide-free hemp oil range with the Mandarin Oriental’s signature products which are massaged into the skin using traditional holistic massage techniques. mandarinoriental.com

CBD Facial Journey at Le Beau Newly opened in Central, Le Beau is a boutique spa that offers a range of face and body treatments using state of the art technology

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BEAUTY

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BEAUTY

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BIG DAY OUT

Travel to the end of the road Rory Mackay explores Southside’s Cape D’Aguilar A rugged and windswept headland, Cape D’Aguilar offers breathtaking coastal scenery without the need for a back-breaking adventure.

However, at the same time there are ways to spice up the day for those who are more intrepid. It can be done either as a half day or full day outing.

Littered with sculpted granite outcrops and sparse tree cover to obscure the horizon, hiking here is never dull with near constant ocean vistas to stimulate the senses. Located on the southeasternmost tip of Hong Kong Island, Cape Dag was named after British Major General

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CAPE D’AGUILAR

George Charles D’Aguilar and was made the only Marine Reserve in Hong Kong in 1996.

For the most part, Cape D’Aguilar remains hidden from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong Island.

The primary way to access the region is via Shek O road and then onto Cape D’Aguilar Road, at the head of lies a bus stop frequented by the number 9 Bus running between Shau Kei Wan and Shek O. Cape Dag Road is paved, thus stroller-friendly for families and runs for four kilometers down to the end of Shek O Peninsula.

Allow at least 2.5 hours to make the return walk, plus any extra time for sightseeing. Come prepared with good footwear and sun protection, as much of the experience is unshaded. Having made your way down towards the end of Cape Dag Road, the adventure begins in earnest; a small village, rugged rock formations, Second

World War relics, lighthouses, caves and a marine reserve all lie in wait... not to mention the views!

The lighthouse and marine reserve are right at the end of the road on a rocky promontory and easily located; one of the most scenic places in Hong Kong with views out across the Pacific, dotted by various islands forming the Po Toi and Wanshan archipelagos. Once nearby, be sure to scope out the rock formations containing two outstanding features; the ‘Thunder Cave’ rock arch and double ended ‘Thunder Cave’. For more demanding options, give the ribbon marked trail to the abandoned Cape D’Aguilar Battery or a hike up D’Aguilar Peak a go.

Passing back through the village having worked up an appetite, there is a little joint called Shun Kee Store where you can grab a bowl of noodles and cold drink if desired.

Returning to the city is equally simple as finding your way in. In addition to taking the bus or driving, there are plenty of taxis on Shek O Road to flag down. If not ready to dart straight back to the city, one can also head down to Shek O to cool off with a refreshing drink and dip at the beach.

In summary, Cape Dag is a fantastic spot for a relaxing day walk and exploration of some of the finest coastal scenery Hong Kong has to offer. It’s charming village and stunning headland walks will live long in the memory for those who make the voyage south.

Rory Mackay runs adventure company Wild Hong Kong. For more details visit wildhongkong.com

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HOROSCOPE

Written in the stars Letao Wang, The Kingdom Healer shares his insights on what the stars hold for you this month AQUARIUS You will feel a great interest in participating in groups with defined purposes and cultivating quality relationships with friends and colleagues.

Expect good news and gatherings with many different people that will fill your heart with joy.

TAURUS You’re going to feel the urge to rebel against the established, Taurus. You will notice that your lack of self-esteem is responsible for not changing your life for a better one. Use the advice of a professional psychological accompaniment and start showing the best version of yourself.

LEO It’s time to let go of everything you no longer want in your life, both work-wise and sentimentally. Pulling the weeds out of your garden will leave fertile soil for new seeds to grow. Your capacity for regeneration will empower you and help you overcome whatever obstacles come your way.

SCORPIO Don’t fight battles that don’t belong to you, Scorpio. Save your energy and focus on what’s important. Establish flexible strategies that allow you to conquer your personal goals without feeding old patterns of behavior. The more you concentrate on your affairs, the faster you will reach your goals.

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PISCES It’s a propitious time for love, Pisces. If you are single, this month you will find someone suitable for a new relationship. Accept all social invitations and don’t stay home alone. Open yourself to the new possibilities that romance will bring to you.

GEMINI The astral alignment encourages you to let go of burdens from the past, Gemini. So, you’ll need to face traumas and deep fears that you have avoided for a long time. Keep your eyes open as new information will help you make the right decisions during this period.

VIRGO If you acted unfairly in the past, now is the ideal opportunity to make amends. Be honest with the people you hurt without exaggerating your explanations. Being humble will be your best resource so that everything goes as smoothly as possible.

SAGITTARIUS You will feel the urge to be free and unattached, Sagittarius. However, your romantic relationships are going to ask the exact opposite. This can bring conflict if you don’t handle it wisely. Seek a balance between time spent with your partner and for yourself.

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ARIES Be cautious with conflicts that arise in your work environment. Confronting people in leadership positions with violence can damage your professional image. Opt for a peaceful solution to your problems, Aries. This is not the time for other people to take notice of you negatively.

CANCER A time of intense introspection is coming, Cancer. The planetary configuration encourages you to banish negative feelings from your life.

You must face your inner demons with maturity and stay close to people who appreciate you most. Be sincere in matters related to the heart, it makes no sense to hold onto what no longer makes you happy.

LIBRA The planetary alignment will encourage you to manage feelings with a practical approach, Libra. This will be very positive if you tend to get carried away by passions. However, avoid going to the other extreme and over analyzing your emotions. Seek harmony between your mind and your spirit.

CAPRICORN You are going to reach a position of greater authority in your work, Capricorn. However, this may bring conflict between you and the rest of your colleagues. Nevertheless, don’t be swayed by their hurtful opinions. Celebrate your success and don’t waste your time fighting them.

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PETS AND PLANTS

How to keep your plants alive Keren Goldman, founder of Keren’s Garden shares her tips and tricks Many feel intimidated taking the responsibility of growing plants because of past failures. As a plant lover, I believe that confidence in growing plants comes with time and the right information. It’s important to know and understand a plant’s specific needs before buying them: 1. Location, location, location Often, we also miscalculate the amount of light our indoor plants receive, which can cause the healthiest plant to drop its leaves or die. The distance from a window affects how much light the plant gets, so even though your apartment might be very airy and bright, over two-meters from the window is usually medium to low light for a plant and not bright. Once settled, avoid moving your plant, as they find it stressful.

2. Watering Over watering is the number one killer for most plants.

Each plant has different watering needs and prefers the soil to dry between watering, if the soil is constantly wet it often causes root rot and there’s no way back from that. Always check the soil before watering, the best tool to do this is with your finger.

3. The right pot Make sure any pot you choose has a drain hole. We do not recommend “self-watering” pots as they don’t have a drain hole and keep water inside of a double bottom. Plastic pots aren’t ideal, as they can’t insulate temperature well.

Ceramic pots are great to lower the temperature difference and keep the soil. Terracotta pots are best for plants that need to breathe, such as orchids.

4. Temperature Air conditioning, fans, dehumidifiers and even being near a window determine the temperature that your plant is affected by. Most plants don’t like direct wind, but air flow is important, the temperature also affects the speed soil dries, so in hot spots, check the soil more often and in cooler spots avoid overwatering, as mushrooms and fungi love dark moist areas.

5. Plant food All plants need extra supplements. Often potted plants, when given too much water, have the nutrients washed out of the pot through the drain hole. Choose a slow release fertiliser that melts slowly with each watering. It’s very important not to overdo it with fertiliser, as it can burn the plants so read the instructions carefully.

Make sure you ask your plant shop all this information before buying a plant and choose wisely. Happy plant growing!

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Ask a vet...

Dr Pauline Taylor answers your questions on fleas and flea prevention What are some signs I should look for if my pet has fleas?

If your dog appears restless and seems to be shaking its head and scratching a lot, especially using their hind legs to scratch along their abdomen, fleas should be considered. They are blood sucking parasites that carry and pass on diseases and irritate in the process. One adult flea can produce around 2000 eggs that can, in the right environmental conditions, hatch to produce flea larva. These eggs or larva hide in waiting for a warm blooded host e.g. your dog to come along and within a short time of this, hatch to produce a hungry flea.

Are there certain locations or seasons where my pet is more prone to picking them up?

Flea eggs tend to lie dormant in darker areas, in your home under sofas or tables where there isn’t a lot of movement or traffic. Outdoors where your pet lies a lot, and when the environmental conditions are right for the eggs to hatch.

Many different species of flea exist but in general dog fleas prefer dogs and cat fleas prefer cats. They prefer animal hosts but will resort to biting people when animals are unavailable. In Hong Kong we should expect fleas most months of the year.

What are some of the ways I can prevent my pet from getting fleas?

Prevention is important and involves measures in/on your dog and its environment. You must attempt to break the life cycle of the flea and different anti flea products attack this at different places. This can be achieved by 1.

Regular in-home cleaning especially under tables and chairs and on carpets. In-home infestation pest control companies can be employed to spray your home using pet friendly products. 2. Treating your pet.

Many anti flea products exist nowadays and it’s a good idea to discuss which one is best for your pet with its vet. Flea shampoos, washes, spotton type on

Dr Pauline, Pets Central veterinarian products to the skin and even yummy treats now exist laced with flea killing parasiticides. They usually need to be given monthly all year round.

What are some of the negative side effects of having fleas?

Many dogs are allergic to flea bites, which can cause intense scratching, red and flaky skin, scabs, hot spots and hair loss. Fleas can also transport tapeworms and cause anaemia. They really are not pleasant but as they have been around for thousands of years fleas do know how to survive the odds. Good luck keeping them at bay.

Got a question for Dr. Pauline?

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DATING

Finding yourself again Valentina Tudose shares three things to reflect on when going through a breakup show people what you are really made of, so start today.

2. Spend some time reflecting on the lessons of the past.

Focus on crossroads in your life where different choices would have led to different outcomes and ask yourself : If I could live that whole experience all over again, would I choose the same path?

Even if at the time you thought you made the best choice, hindsight may show you different options.

Notice what choices fill you with hope and renewed energy and which ones bring you down.

This is your own internal stop/go system guiding you through life and now is a good time to start using it for your future actions.

3. Start with baby steps.

Do something different every day, even if the change seems inconsequential. Action of any sort is the hallmark of growth. Learn to be comfortable with the discomfort of trying new things and give yourself the permission to be reborn like the phoenix from the ashes. The new you has not been created yet and every choice is another step forward. Ask yourself: What is a small thing I can do today that will get me closer to my vision?

Keep reminding yourself that right now you are the most advanced and wise version of yourself, a permanent work in progress as long as you don’t stop learning.

Our lovely city has a lot of nicknames but one that resonates with a lot of people is “the graveyard of relationships.”

Everyone knows at least one story of a couple who looked like the postcard for happily ever after, then all of a sudden announced their divorce. How does it come to that?

If you’ve ever experienced a sudden breakup or separation you may be familiar with the feeling of confusion and conflict that is so typical of grief. Those late nights lying in bed wondering where all your feelings have gone… When all you feel is numb, closed off, like a part of you who used to be vibrant, adventurous and happy somehow got lost along the way.

But was it really that sudden? If you really think about it, it was the gradual loss of attention and effort put into your connection.

From both sides. It’s easy to blame the other

for not being there for you, focusing on how they were not giving you enough. If you were perfectly honest with yourself, it was the little things you both stopped doing that kept chipping away at your happiness.

If you’ve been there and need to find yourself again - here is a good place to start.

1. Losing oneself is often a result of losing sight of who we want to be.

Letting others choose where we’re going, doing things to please others, because that’s what’s expected of us. Claim back the power of selfdetermination by asking yourself: who do I really want to be at this point in my life? Am I just a mother/father? A boss? Are there other aspects of me I need to express?

Create a new vision for how you want people to see you and imagine what they may say to you on your 80th birthday. You have several decades to reinvent yourself and

Valentina Tudose is a relationship coach and founder of Happy Ever After and ambassador for YVEREST. For more information visit happyeverafter.asia

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BACKPAGE

Squirting cash from your phone Nury Vittachi on when digital money will come to Hong Kong

China, including Hong Kong, now leads the world in next generation digital payments. At last count, more than 6.2 million people out of Hong Kong’s 6.5 million adults had signed up for the government’s Faster Payment System.

Have you tried it? You make payments by “squirting” money from your mobile phones to other people’s bank accounts with a flick of the thumb.

But our mainland cousins are way ahead.

Readers sent me pictures with beggars on pavements switching their coin bowls for print-outs of QR codes.

Tang Kin-ching said: “When I was in Xinjiang last year, I had Uyghur shopkeepers looking at me in disbelief that I was still paying cash.”

Pete Gable said: “I saw a great video of the famous investor Jim Rodgers as he tried to buy an ice cream in China with cash. He didn’t have WeChat and the only payment was by a QR code, so she eventually gave him a free one.”

A picture of a church donation box in Xiamen, sent in by reader Alpha Lau, showed

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that even God has switched to digital cash beamed from phones. The church donation box has two codes for worshippers to scan with their phones, as the Almighty accepts WeChat Pay and Alipay. Good of Him to show such flexibility.

It’s kind of amazing that China is so far ahead of Hong Kong in these matters. At the shroff of the car park of the Wing On Department Store in Sheung Wan, I saw a big sign pointing that they did NOT accept Octopus or credit cards or any type of digital transfer. Only cash was accepted. Given how old-fashioned the place was, I was tempted to try to barter a bead necklace. “Pretty beads.

See? You take.”

Outside, I saw a bus advertising Starfront Royale, a new complex in Tuen Mun. This property development which has lifted its name from “Starfrost of Royale”, the name of a princess in a popular video game. In the game, all apartments are purple and the only form of currency accepted is bags of diamonds.

Perfect for Hong Kong.

In the meantime, finance folk tell me that

China has been testing out a new digital currency, to be launched in Shenzhen.

Nicknamed “the electric renminbi”, it is designed to be a huge blow to money launderers, currency smugglers and corrupt officials, since cash flows can be tracked from hand to hand. “It destroys the grey area, which is great, unless you have grey areas,” a Taipa resident told me.

The effects were already being felt in places with dodgy cash flows such as the Macau casinos, he said.

In the meantime, the Hong Kong dollar, to the surprise of many people, has been one of the strongest currencies on the planet. A Hong Kong Big Mac is now less than half the price of a US Big Mac. A recent survey showed that the average house in America now costs US$240,000—at the official exchange rate, that’s about HK$1.8 million, the price of a measly car park space on Hong Kong Island.

At Big Mac index rates, a whole house in the US costs the same as HALF a Hong Kong car park space. Unless the space is for rent at the Wing On car park, in which you can just offer the shroff some pretty beads, maybe?

Nury Vittachi is an award-winning author and journalist based in Hong Kong. He is best known for his novel series, The Feng Shui Detective and is now editor of Friday Magazine. Contact him via nury@vittachi.com or through his public Facebook page.

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