DINING | MONEY | DATING | HEALTH
hongkongliving.com
FINDING LOVE IN times of a pandemic
SEPT 2020
Seoul food Chef Mingoo Kang on his latest opening
The only way is up EXPLORE HONG KONG’S HILLTOPS THIS HIKING SEASON
1 | hongkongliving.com
CONTENT S — 0 9 / 2 0
16
COVER STORY Hike-arumba
Hiking season is upon us, Nicole Slater rounds up the best treks to do this autumn
4 Contributors Meet our team
6 Snapped Life on Hong Kong Island
8 Planner
End your summer on a high with our September event round up
10 News The lowdown on local news
13 Business Innovator Jewellery designer Kajal Naina on transforming purpose and passion
25 Nibbles
33 Pets & gardening
Eat well, stay safe and support your local businesses
26 Money & Investment How fintech’s Saxo Group can help steer you through safe investment waters
28 Big Day Out
Monthly news on homely matters
35 Covid-19 Dating Valentina Tudose on how to flirt with a facemask on
36 Backpage Nury Vittachi lightens the mood
The ultimate SUP spots the Southside has to offer
6
30 Must haves Netflix and chill in style with these home comforts
14 Local Health
30
Hong Kong’s back garden gets a face lift
23 Seoul Food Korea’s Mingoo Kang of Mingles with his first overseas venture: Hansik Goo
23
8 10
28
“The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it and join the dance” ~ Alan Watts
hongkongliving.com | 1
EDITOR’S LETTER Goodbye summer and hello autumn. It really depends on how you see it. It’s all about perspective in 2020. Those who know me, know that my favorite time of the year is summer. I am chill, tan and can be found on a beach typically. But as much as I wish that summer was longer and winter was shorter, I absolutely love September. To me, September is a time for new beginnings. As Leo Tolstoy once said: “Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.” The first step towards supporting positive action in ourselves and the world around is maintaining our own personal health. This includes mental, spiritual and physical aspects. This month’s cover story (page 16) gives you the chance to do just this. Our hiking guide offers trail options for every level. With the weather cooling down this autumn you’ll have plenty of time to build your way up to the most challenging trails in our backyard. A big hike calls for a big feast afterwards, Apple Lee sat down with chef Mingoo Kang this month to talk about his latest restaurant opening, Hansik Good in our dining section (page 25). We welcomed relationship coach Valentina Tudose to the magazine this month, with her first ever article on how to successfully date in times of a pandemic.
Editorial Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Editor Melanie Cox, melanie@hongkongliving.com Senior Staff Writer Charmaine Ng, charmaineng@hongkongliving.com Contributing Editor Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Digital Editor Apple Lee, apple@hongkongliving.com
Design Graphic Designer Yankee Tsang, yankee@hongkongliving.com Vicky Lam, vicky@hongkongliving.com
Sales & Marketing Director of Content Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com
So here we are in September, looking onwards and upwards. As I always end my editor’s Letter: let’s make this concept of positivity and community contagious year round.
Head of Digital Content Isamonia Chui, isamonia@hongkongliving.com Partnership Manager Chrissie Ip, chrissie@hongkongliving.com Elaine Li, elaine@hongkongliving.com
Publisher Matt Eaton, matt@hongkongliving.com
Founding Director
Things we love
Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com
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
Bliss & Brunch staycation
For the first time, as part of its new upcycling phase, LANE EIGHT has introduced an entire range that incorporates sustainable and recycled materials. Made for everyday athletes, LANE EIGHT has launched three new colorways, Electric Neon, Cloud White, and Lunar Grey. Each shoe uses 11 recycled plastic bottles that are fashioned into polyester yarn. laneeight.com
Press the reset button this month with the ‘Bliss & Brunch Staycation’ experience at the Conrad. This ultimate pamper package includes one night’s stay in a Deluxe Room with three fares and booze, including a lavish champagne brunch at Nicholini’s and Brasserie on the Eighth from now to October 4. $3,300 for two adults. conraddining.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.
2 | hongkongliving.com
hongkongliving.com talk@hongkongliving.com @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.
Photo: Eric Ho
LANE EIGHT
hongkongliving.com | 3
CONTRIBUTORS THANK YOU GUYS
Nury Vittachi
Mingoo Kan
Nury Vittachi is the awardwinning Hong Kong-based author of more than 40 books, several of which have been published internationally in multiple languages. His journalism has appeared in more than a dozen publications, including The New York Times and Reader’s Digest. He shares his latest musings on the backpage.
The acclaimed culinary talent behind two-Michelin-starred Seoul restaurant Mingles, brings his creative interpretation of authentic Korean cuisine to Hong Kong. Hansik Goo is one of the most highly anticipated openings of the year despite soft openings amidst a pandemic. The award winning chef talks about his first venture outside of Korea with ZS Hospitality.
Katrina Lau Born in Malaysia and raised in Hong Kong, Katrina is now in her second year of Journalism studies at The University of Hong Kong. As a self-proclaimed coffeeholic and foodie, she is always down for Instagrammable cafes and food adventures. When not procrastinating with essays, Kat can be found doing something outdoorsy or catching a drink with her friends.
Valentina Tudose Unsure how to flirt when your mask covers half your face? So are we. This month, certified relationship coach and clinical hypnotherapist, Valentina Tudose shares some tips on how to date in the age of Covid-19.
Kajal Naina
Richard Douglas Richard Douglas is the CIO of Greater China at Saxo Bank; a world-leading provider of online trading and investment. Based in Hong Kong, Douglas shares insight on why fintech could save the global economy and consumer market as the pandemic spreads.
4 | hongkongliving.com
Kajal Naina is an award winning jewellery designer based in Hong Kong. Known for her ability to create one-of-a-kind collections, Naina has curated bespoke items of jewellery for clients around the world. This month Naina talks about transforming her purpose and passion into a successful philanthropic business.
hongkongliving.com | 5
PEOPLE
Snapped at lunch
6 | hongkongliving.com
SNAPPED
hongkongliving.com | 7
PLANNER
What’s on this September SEP 13
Treasure Island Summer Surf Party Kick off the end of the summer season with beach games, face painting, surf lessons and more, with a delicious lunchtime BBQ buffet. 10am-5pm. Adults $250, children $125. Treasure Island Beach Club, Pui O Beach, Lantau. treasureislandhk.com
SEP 15
Love & Bananas - An Elephant Story Earth.org and The Hive film screenings are back with a gut-wrenching yet optimistic film about an elephant rescue in Thailand. 6:30-8:30pm. Free for Hive members. Online via Zoom. thehive.com.hk
SEP 24
Hong Kong as F*ck: A Comedy Panel Game Show Test your Hong Kong knowledge with this live panel game show and win amazing prizes. 8:3010:30pm. $150. The Riff HK, 8/F California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguilar Street, Central. theriff.hk
SEP 13
SEP 26
Spartan Trail
Spartan Kids Race
Hong Kong Spartan Trail 2020 brings a new challenge to the table for the city’s trail and adventure runners. Run 10k and half marathons races in open or elite categories. 8am-6pm. $400. Lam Tsuen, Heung Kung Sho Road, Tai Po. tickets-hk.spartan.com
SEP 1
The city’s first stand-alone Spartan Kids Race will have children aged four to 13 take part in both open and competitive races in a unique obstacle course. 8am-6pm. $420. Harbourfront Event Space, 9 Lung Wo Road, Central. tickets-hk. spartan.com
Bobby’s Rabble Quiz Night
SEP 26
Known for being “the pub quiz for people that don’t like pub quizzes”, Bobby’s Rabble Quiz Night has something for everyone. While restrictions are in place, the quiz will be held on Zoom. 8-10pm. $100 per person. Bobby’s Rabble, 46 Wyndham Street, Central.
99 Bottles turns three The popular Peel Street bar will give away 999 bottles for free, so turn up early and grab a drink. 4pm. Free. 99 Bottles, 59A Peel Street, Soho, Central.
SEP 11
Momentai Charity Quiz
SEP 30
Virginia Overton exhibition at White Cube In her first solo exhibition in Asia, the New York artist makes use of objects she encounters in a range of environments from agricultural to industrial, her practice is driven by what she has described as a natural push and pull inherent in materials. 11am–7pm. Free. White Cube, G/f, 50, Connaught Road, Central. whitecube.com
Test your knowledge and support local charity Sai Kung Stray Friends. A maximum of six people per team. 7-10pm. $100 per person, entrance fee donated to charity. Momentai, Kiosk 1 Waterfront, Wai Man Road, Sai Kung. momentai-la.com
SEP 12
SEP 8-12
Hong Kong Student Association of Neuroscience 1st Annual Conference
Take part in this week-long celebration of short films celebrating Asia Pacific’s up-and-coming filmmakers and their latest film projects. $160. The Hive, 33-35 Hillier Street, Sheung Wan. thehivesheungwan.com.hk
Founded in 2020, HKSAN aims to connect and inspire Hong Kong students on the advancement and popularisation of neuroscience. 8am5:30pm. $150. Cheung Kung Hai Lecture Theatre 3-4, G/F, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong. hksaneuroscience.org
Shorties Film Festival Hong Kong
8 | hongkongliving.com
WHAT’S ON
Book Now
OCT 11
Hong Kong Whisky Festival
OCT 1
Mid-Autumn Festival Eat a mooncake, light up a lantern and enjoy the four day weekend.
Renowned as the largest whisky event in Hong Kong, Hong Kong Whisky Festival is celebrating its fifth anniversary with 1,100 different whisky expressions, alongside an array of exciting masterclasses. 1-8pm. $248. InterContinental Grand Stanford, 70 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East. hkwhiskyfestival.com
OCT 9-11
OCT 18
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. chinacoastraceweek.com
Grab a bargain and support a local independent store at this outdoor monthly market. 11am. Free. Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay Road, Lantau.
China Coast Regatta
DB Sunday Market
Got an event? We can publish the details. Email editorial@hongkongliving.com
hongkongliving.com | 9
NEWS
HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL LITERARY FESTIVAL PUSHES AHEAD ONLINE Marking its 20th edition this year, the Hong Kong International Literary Festival (HKILF) is taking on a hybrid format. Combining virtual and live events, the festival allows patrons to enjoy the festival no matter the coronavirus situation in November. From November 5 to 15, HKILF will be hosting panels, discussions and
readings, bringing together established and emerging writers and discovering new voices and perspectives.“Going virtual has allowed us to bring a wider range of high-profile authors to the festival than ever before,” the festival’s executive director Catherine Platt said. festival.org.hk
LEPTOSPIROSIS CASES ON THE RISE Spread in running water, leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread by rat urine that is washed into freshwater sources like puddles, streams and waterways during downpours. Dogs can become infected and develop leptospirosis if their gums (or skin with any cuts) come into contact with infected urine, urine-contaminated soil or water, leading to acute renal failure, liver disease and possible death. “As well as possible detergents, rat poisons and other chemicals discarded by humans, a host of disease organisms left by other animals walking by could be ingested by your dog,” said Dr Pauline Taylor, a veterinarian at Pets Central. To prevent your dog from contracting leptospirosis, the easiest thing to do is to never allow them to play or drink from freshwater.
10 | hongkongliving.com
ENHALE MEDITATION STUDIO CLOSES ITS DOORS After months of Covid-19 and on-and-off social distancing restrictions, Enhale Meditation Studio closed its doors on August 28. Following a brief period of reopening, gyms and fitness centres in Hong Kong have been closed since mid-July due to a third-wave outbreak of the Covid-19. Many studios including Enhale have pivoted to offering online classes since the forced closure, but some are finding it difficult to engage with their clients online the same way. “Covid-19 has made it challenging to gather and we’ve had to make the difficult decision to close our doors. We poured our hearts into providing a safe space but cannot continue to operate at this time,” a statement on the studio’s Instagram said.
IN YOUR BACKYARD
HK TRAMWAYS AND CHECKCHECKCIN PREPARES YOU FOR AUTUMN
WINE & DINE ONLINE Originally set to take place at Central Harbourfront in October, the four-day Wine & Dine Festival will be switched to an online occasion that spans across several weeks. In lieu of the usual pop-up market format, this year’s festival will see a busy line-up of events including wine tasting, cooking classes with chefs, wine auctions and more – all happening online for the public to take part in.
HANDS OFF As part of anti-pandemic efforts, Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) has developed a contactless panel to lessen the risk of coronavirus transmission whilst using an elevator. The new panel, named kNOw Touch, is made of a sensor that can be easily installed inside the elevator. By detecting the blockage
With autumn just around the corner, local companies HK Tramways and CheckCheckCin have joined forces to bring Hongkongers a new
limited edition osmanthus and pear rice water. In Chinese medicine, Yin Qi predominates as the weather cools, meaning that your regimen during this time should focus on nourishment, moistening and maintaining peace of mind. Cool in nature, pears can nourish the lungs and promote fluidity, while sweet-scented osmanthus helps relieve depression. The new drink combines both of these elements together with rice water, which helps strengthen your stomach and promises to be a source of nourishment post-summer. The limited edition osmanthus and pear rice water is now available at the HK Tramways online shop, CheckCheckCin, Green Common, HKTVmall, Ztore and Citysuper. hktramways.com
and reflection of infrared light, the location of a person’s floating fingertips can be identified into coordinates and signals to control the buttons. The device can be applied to all brands and models of elevators as its interface is added on physically and no protocol is needed. It is currently being deployed into various government buildings including the EMSD Headquarters.
hongkongliving.com | 11
12 | hongkongliving.com
Shine bright
BUSINESS INNOVATOR
Charmaine Ng speaks to jewellery designer Kajal Naina on transforming her purpose and passion into a successful philanthropic business Jewellery has been part of mankind since before history was written, with different uses amongst different cultures. Once difficult and expensive to obtain, today we enjoy many forms of jewellery at different price ranges. With increased supply, more of us are seeking out mindful pieces, which take inspiration from ancient symbols, cultures and folklore. In Hong Kong, Kajal Naina is one jeweller whose aim is to create works that are more than just decorative. As a trained dentist who was satisfied with her career, Naina found herself at a crossroads when she moved to Singapore and later on Hong Kong. She had always loved jewellery and had an eye for beauty, and although she was happy where she was professionally, she couldn’t help toying with the idea of exploring her passion as a path further down the line.
Jewellery is not just a piece of accessory but a means to something more in life.
With no background in jewellery and no connections in the industry, starting from scratch was not easy for Naina. But over three years since the founding of her eponymous brand, Kajal Naina Jewellery, she has found widespread success in the e-commerce world as well as garnering attention locally. “Jewellery is not just a piece of accessory but a means to something more in life,” she says. “It’s to tell the story of who you are, to keep you centred, to keep you connected, to commemorate special moments and to be passed from mothers to daughters.” Everything under Naina’s brand is crafted to fill a meaningful purpose. The last couple of months, for example, Naina has been working on a new collection of necklaces called ‘Mangalsutra’, which is a promise of a husband to the wife in Indian and Nepalese culture, similar to the wedding ring. “It’s always been done very traditionally and I want to breathe new life into this meaningful piece while giving a nod to my roots. This collection will not be limited to any country or culture, but will instead become wearable stories for people from all walks in life.”
For Naina, giving meaning to her jewellery draws a parallel with giving back to society. Conscious of her privilege, the designer has dedicated much of her career to help those in need. In addition to hosting free educational workshops that educate people on important matters related to jewellery in her own time, she is actively involved with the Shubhadra Madan Foundation, a children’s education and empowerment initiative in Nepal. As a mother of three girls, she understands the value of education and how it can lead to empowerment and self-sufficiency. As such,
a portion of the profit from the sales of Kajal Naina jewelleries is donated to support the cause. Ultimately, Naina hopes her jewellery and everything it encompasses will bring about happiness for the wearer. “It’s about embracing and loving your individuality, whether it may be through meaningful pieces of jewellery or other aspects in life.”
You can find Kajal’s award-winning jewellery collections online at kajalnaina.com
hongkongliving.com | 13
LOCAL
Sai Sha Road
Hong Kong’s back garden gets a face lift Charmaine Ng looks at Sai Kung’s current and upcoming road developments Dubbed the back garden of Hong Kong, Sai Kung is popular for its rural villages, hiking trails, beaches, islands and geological formations. In the wake of Covid-19 restrictions, Hongkongers have flocked to this isolated part of the city to enjoy the fresh air and hidden beaches. With only two main access roads to the town, weekend traffic has become a serious problem over the years, causing many accidents and delays. In order to accommodate the influx of visitors Sai Kung has begun a large number of construction works. Including the widening of Hiram’s Highway and Sai Sha Road. Here’s an update on the current developments and road works taking place in the back garden of Hong Kong.
14 | hongkongliving.com
Hiram’s Highway As the only principal road linking Sai Kung to Kowloon East and Tseung Kwan O, the ongoing improvement works at Hiram’s Highway is one of the most prominent projects in the area. The existing highway was designed based on old standards. As a result, the narrow carriageway, which retains sharp bends, insufficient pedestrian crossing facilities and insufficient laybys (an area at the side of a road where vehicles may pull off the road and stop), have caused adverse traffic impact throughout the years. Split into two stages of development to turn the current highway into a dual two-lane carriageway, the public project proposed by the Highways Department is currently wrapping up its first stage.
Stage 1 Construction work at Hiram’s Highway began in March 2016 with a focus on two sections: between Clear Water Bay Road and Pak Wai; and the existing Ho Chung Road and Luk Mei Tsuen Road. The proposed improvement works will relieve the traffic congestion near Marina Cove, enhance the safety of the road section and improve local access to Ho Chung and Luk Mei Tsuen.
Stage 2 As the first stage of improvement works finalises, the second stage is under review with preliminary design and investigation works in progress.
LOCAL Essentially, this stage will improve the section of Hiram’s Highway, Po Tung Road and Tai Mong Tsai Road from Marina Cove to the south of Sha Ha. Similar to Stage 1, the proposed works will relieve traffic congestion and enhance the safety of the road section around the Sai Kung area.
Sai Sha Road Sun Hung Kai Properties, a major developer in Hong Kong, is currently in the works of a largescale housing development located off Sai Sha Road in Shap Sze Heung. With 9,500 apartments of around 610 square feet each, the project will amount to a population equivalent to that of Sai Kung Town, assuming that it is fully occupied with three members per family. Sai Sha Road is currently a single carriageway that will more than likely become congested when serving the influx of population. Acknowledging this, Sun Hung Kai Properties is in the process of widening the road into a four-lane carriageway with additional traffic interchanges and up to three footbridges. The project will also include a public car park and coach stable, a cycling track, noise barriers, greening works to compensate for the affected trees, as well as extensive water and sewage utility provisions. Roadworks are expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2023.
Hiram’s Highway
hongkongliving.com | 15
COVER STORY
16 | hongkongliving.com
COVER STORY
Hike-arumba Hiking season is upon us, Nicole Slater rounds up the best treks to do this autumn
hongkongliving.com | 17
18 | hongkongliving.com
COVER STORY
Sharp Peak One of Hong Kong’s most difficult hikes, Sharp Peak was voted hike of the year in our Sai Kung Readers’ Choice Awards 2020. Suitable only for experienced hikers, the climb is so strenuous that the AFCD recommends against hiking the trail altogether. However, its splendid views of Tai Long Wan and its four beaches make it worth the climb.
Sunset Peak Hong Kong’s third highest peak and Lantau’s second highest mountain, Sunset Peak is known for its gorgeous sunset views overlooking the Lantau coastline. The sunsets here are so beautiful, they have even been featured on Cantopop singer Eason Chan’s album Taste the Atmosphere. Be sure to bring along a flashlight since descending from the peak after dark can be dangerous.
Dragon’s Back Dragon’s Back took home the prize for Hong Kong’s favourite hike in our Hong Kong Living Awards 2020 and it’s not difficult to see why. Popular with both locals and tourists, beginner or expert, the Dragon’s Back trail boasts beautiful coastal views of Shek O, Tai Long Wan and Tung Lung Island. It is easily accessible from the city which means it gets busy, particularly during weekends. Get there early, or prepare to queue just to get onto the trail.
hongkongliving.com | 19
20 | hongkongliving.com
COVER STORY Mask friendly hiking trails Rhino Rock Well-known for its Rhinoceros shaped rock formation, this Stanley trail is one of the shortest in Hong Kong, taking less than 30-minutes. Starting at Stanley Fort, the trail is just one-kilometre each way and leads you to the perfect Instagram location. Remember to keep your mask on for the photo. Lung Ha Wan Country Trail Lung Ha Wan Country Trail is perfect for those wanting a hiking experience without feeling suffocated. The two-kilometre hike will take you above Clearwater Bay Country Park where you can enjoy fresh air while overlooking Sai Kung and the outlying islands.
Lion Rock
Standing at 934 metres above sea level, Lantau Peak is the second highest peak in Hong Kong. Due to its elevation, strong winds and fog are a common occurrence on this mountain, but if you can break through the panoramic views of Lantau Island make it all worth it. The peak can be reached from the less strenuous, Lantau Trail.
There is a roaring lion to the north. This hike is slightly lesser known but certainly up there in terms of grandeur. Conquer this rugged ridge to witness some of Hong Kong’s finest views. Feel the intense sprawl of Kowloon against the scenic backdrop of the island. When you reach the peak, you’ll feel incredible and the hiking conditions on either side are also most enjoyable. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, in particular monkeys.
Twin Peaks and Violet Hill If you’re looking for a challenge then Twin Peaks and Violet Hill is the hike for you. This workout packs a serious punch and is commonly referred to as the “Terrible Twins” due to its seemingly never-ending series of steps (over 1,000 actually). We strongly advise doing this hike from Parkview to Stanley, rather than in the opposite direction as when you’re halfway up the first peak, thinking you should have gone for brunch instead, the visions of Stanley’s restaurants, along with the gentle ocean breeze, will keep you going.
Suicide Cliff at Kowloon Peak Standing at 603 metres above sea level, Kowloon Peak offers panoramic views of bustling Victoria Harbour from one direction and serene Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay from the other. The hike starts with a steep incline up to the summit which takes around an hour. Once there you can follow the trail down to Suicide Cliff (called so because of its rocky feature which resembles a diving board). Here you’ll enjoy stunning views of Hong Kong island from above, far better than any rooftop bar.
Sheung Luk Stream If waterfalls and cliff diving sound like your kind of thing, then Sheung Luk Stream is one hike you do not want to miss. This hike will take you off the concrete path and up a river course, offering a combination of waterfalls, clear rock pools and cliffs which are ideal for jumping off. Those with a fear of heights might want to sit this one out as it involves climbing the 25-metre Thousand Silk Falls. Hiking up a watercourse and over wet rocks provides obvious hazards, making this one unsuitable for younger children.
Bowen Road Popular with joggers and dog-walkers alike, Bowen Road is the perfect place for an evening stroll, offering panoramic views of Central, Wan Chai and Happy Valley. The fourkilometre trail is paved and flat, with plenty of rest stops so you’ll never be short of breath. Braemar Hill A short 20-minute hike will take you to one of Hong Kong’s most iconic viewing points. The trail starts off steep but soon flattens out. Follow the red ribbons conveniently located along the route and be rewarded with stunning views of Hong Kong Island.
Photo: Michael Hsu
Lantau Peak
Trio Beach This scenic stroll in Sai Kung leads you to Sai Kung’s best beach, as voted in our Readers’ Choice Awards. The trail is mainly flat with a gradual incline half-way through taking around 30-minutes to reach the beach. With current beach regulations you won’t be able to cool off at the end, but you can enjoy some shady grassland nearby.
hongkongliving.com | 21
22 | hongkongliving.com
Dining
DINING
hongkongliving.com | 23
DINING
Seoul food
Chef Mingoo Kang brings a new kind of Korean cuisine to Hong Kong with the opening of Hansik Goo. By Apple Lee In 2014, he opened his first restaurant Mingles in Seoul to showcase Korean fusion food. The restaurant melds traditional Korean culinary traditions with influences from Japanese, Spanish and French cuisines to create innovative dishes. Kang’s avant-garde concept has proven to be successful and welcomed by critics. Mingles debuted as No.15 and the highest new entry on the list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2016. In the same year, it was awarded one Michelin star in the Michelin Guide’s inaugural edition in Seoul and moved up to two stars in 2019. Earlier this June, Kang finally took the first step in realising his decade-long dream and opened his first overseas restaurant in Hong Kong. Created in collaboration with ZS Hospitality Group, Hansik Goo offers an eight-course tasting menu featuring traditional Korean ingredients and fermented sauces. “Hong Kong’s food culture is among the best in the world. The city is home to many welltravelled and knowledgeable diners who already have a deep understanding of Korean food, which is why I wanted to start realising my vision here,” says Kang. Hansik Goo is located at 2/F, 8 Lyndhurst Terrace Central. To make a reservation, call 2798 8768. Bookings are required. For more information, visit hansikgoo.hk
When Korean-born chef Mingoo Kang started cooking overseas more than 10 years ago, he found that the cuisine of his home country was relatively unknown in other parts of the world. “I had a vision to introduce a new kind of Korean cuisine abroad – one that highlights the
24 | hongkongliving.com
essence of traditional Korean food and that both Koreans and foreigners would enjoy,” says Kang. In his years of working abroad, Kang went on to become the youngest-ever head chef at Nobu Bahama when he was still in his early 30s. He also trained under the tutelage of renowned Spanish chef Martin Berasategui, who is known as one of the leading figures of modern Basque cuisine. Despite having amassed a wealth of culinary knowledge from his globetrotting stints, Kang thought his understanding of Korean cuisine was not as deep and thorough as he wanted it to be. The chef decided to return to his native country to learn the basics of Korean cooking. He sought the guidance of Buddhist priest and chef Jeong Kwan and Cho Hee-sook, who was awarded Asia’s Best Female Chef by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. Through apprenticing under the two culinary heavyweights, Kang gained a new perspective on traditional Korean cuisine, which he took to synergise with his own experience from cooking abroad.
DINING NEWS
Nibbles
Foodie Picks of the Month
Protein & Plants This one goes for the gym junkies and health afficenados. Protein & Plants is your neighbourhood friendly, one-stop-shop for a healthy grab and go meal packed with protein. Using unprocessed and non-GMO ingredients, the menu is designed to fit a typical Hongkongers bustling lifestyle. 87 Wellington Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. proteinandplants.com
Francis The Daily Tot opens on Hollywood Road Originally set to open in July, Cuban-inspired rum bar had to postpone its opening due to concerns over the Covid-19 outbreak and government restrictions but finally opened in late August. Industry veteran Gerry Olino, makes up
one-half of the founding team behind The Daily Tot. Guests can enjoy curated rum cocktails as well as a niche collection of rums sourced from Caribbean distilleries at the 1,300 square feet drinking den. thedailytot.com
Cookies come to IFC Homegrown dessert brand, Baked Indulgence has opened a six-month long pop-up at IFC Mall this September. Founded in 2012, Baked Indulgence (formerly Top Indulgence) offers American-style cookies with a twist including Milk Tea, Yuen Yeung and Sakura. bakedindulgence.com
With restrictions in place, a wholesome lunch and afternoon wines are the way to go. Known for their extensive wine selection, neighbourhood friendly Francis offers the idyllic setting to sit back and enjoy some Middle Eastern mezze and grilled plates. Francis’s has launched a take away menu for evenings, meaning you can taste the flavours of Tel Aviv in the comfort of your own home. 4 & 6 St. Francis Street, Wan Chai. Francis.com.hk
Meraki Meal Plans Right now, all we crave is comfort eats and feel good beverages. Embracing at-home eating culture with open arms, foodies can enjoy much-loved Meraki signature dishes as part of weekly meal plans from BEDU, Uma Nota and Mamma Always Said. The new meal plans are available for pickup and delivery with a choice of the“Veggie Lovers” or “Signature” plan. meraki-hospitality.com/
Double opening by Cupping Room Riding on the successful launch of Doubleshot, the Cupping Room team has been busy brewing up two new concepts in the last few months. Southern American smokehouse and delicatessen, Smoke & Barrels and a standalone bakery called La Viña located right next door are set to open in September. cuppingroom.hk
hongkongliving.com | 25
MONEY & INVESTMENT
Investing for the future Melanie Cox looks at what Covid-19 has taught us about money and investing 26 | hongkongliving.com
MONEY & INVESTMENT Richard Douglas, chief information officer (Greater China) at award-winning fintech firm Saxo Bank, has been with the company for more than three years. But the past eight months have seen the finance industry go through some of its biggest changes yet, as Covid-19 challenges conventional business practices. Yet Douglas also sees opportunity and says the pandemic has encouraged him to invest more wisely for his family’s future. He tells Melanie Cox how Saxo Group can help steer you through safe investment waters.
of a global economic impact. In light of this, traditional banking and investment industries have been forced to pivot to a more digital way of banking. “If Covid-19 has done one thing, it has accelerated digital transformation,” he says. But with this shift comes new investment opportunities in fintech for firms and clients alike. Financial institutions are also turning to techfocused companies like Saxo Bank to accelerate their digital transformation.
Investing in a time of uncertainty
Entering the market back in 1992, Copenhagenbased Saxo Bank is fintech’s primordial pioneer. “Saxo’s trading platform holds an advantage thanks to the maturity of its technology and research-based data. “Our clients trust us to deal with any issue that arises thanks to our transparency and technological pedigree.” In 1998, Saxo Bank became one of the first to launch a proprietary online trading platform that provided private investors with the same tools and market access as professional traders, fund managers and large financial institutions. It was this technology that drew Douglas to Saxo in the first place. “Everything we do is to empower clients to reach their financial goals and help them make more informed investment decisions,” he says.
The topic of investing and investing wisely might have taken a back seat during the Covid-19 pandemic, but taking good care of your finances is just as important as family health. “More than ever, it’s important to educate yourself and be responsible about what you are investing in,” Douglas says. “Make sure you stay up-to-date. Everyday there is something happening. Whether it’s politics or individual company performance, the volatility is not over.”
Industry overhaul The past eight months have ushered in big changes to the world of finance. As the number of confirmed cases rises worldwide, so do concerns
Why Saxo
Future gazing Saxo remains one the leading fintech banks, thanks to a dedicated research and development team focused on tech and digitalisation. “Our continual development in technology has enabled us to respond proactively during these challenging times,” Douglas says. This tech proved critical in March 2020 when Saxo shifted its operations early on into home offices worldwide while maintaining stable trading platforms to its clients. While the future may be unclear for many of us, Douglas remains confident that Saxo’s technology-driven solutions will allow clients to prosper. “Deliver the best and most competitive services to your clients and you can persevere through any difficult times,” he says “As long as you can maintain a high quality service that is competitive - you can sustain any business through any crisis.”
Saxo Markets is a licensed subsidiary of Saxo Bank A/S, a leading Fintech specialist and global multi-asset facilitator of capital markets products and services. Saxo Markets has been in Hong Kong since 2011, for more information visit home.saxo
hongkongliving.com | 27
BIG DAY OUT
Paddles up Katrina Lau tackles the stand up paddle-board in Southside
If dragon boating and windsurfing are not up your alley, stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP) may be the relaxing water sport you are searching for this summer. We’ve tested the water and here’s how you can enjoy some sun and sea in Stanley.
What is paddle-boarding A cross between surfing and kayaking, paddle boarders stand on the boards and use a paddle to propel themselves through the water. To get moving paddle boarders will need to balance their
knees on the board and gradually begin to stand up. Once standing up they can increase paddle speed and even practice some yoga poses.
Where to rent Aqua-Bound SUP Led by professionally trained instructors, Aqua-Bound SUP, located on Stanley Main Beach offers classes and equipment hire. The water sports centre offers SUP equipment rental for SUP boards, kayaks, windsurfing and wakeboarding equipment. Boards are available to rent for one hour for $80 or the whole day for $350. Buoyancy vests and wetsuits are also available. aquabound.com.hk Island Paddle HK Founded by fitness and ocean enthusiast couple Esther Bland and Niall Westley, Island Paddle focuses on giving people the confidence to paddle safely while teaching you the fundamentals of SUP safety and technique before hiring out a board. Join one of their
28 | hongkongliving.com
BIG DAY OUT
90-minute lessons and tours taking place in Stanley Bay or enjoy a SUP Yoga session to help you reconnect with nature. islandpaddle.hk
Repulse Bay One of Southside’s most popular beaches, paddle boarders can enjoy an afternoon in the sunshine before heading over to The Pulse for a well-earned snack.
Tai Tam Bay For a more serene SUP experience Tai Tam Bay’s calm waters will put first time paddlers at ease. It’s abundance of marine life will be an exciting addition to the trip.
AUM Yoga Academy Founded by Miss Doris in 2012, AUM Yoga Academy has four branches across Hong Kong offering a variety of yoga practices from traditional matt yoga to aerial yoga. Throughout September, the academy is offering SUP yoga sessions at South Bay Beach, so you can practice your downward dog on the water. aum.com.hk
Best places to go Stanley Beach While Stanley is the perfect weekday location to hit the seas, weekends and public holidays tend to be a bit busier with plenty of sea traffic. Beginners should opt for a quieter time to practice their skills.
hongkongliving.com | 29
MUST HAVES
Velvet eye mask $156 from TONIC amara.com
Red wine glass set $720 from Indigo Living indigo-living.com
Tender is the night massage bar $110 from Lush lush.com
Chateau La Grave A Pomerol 2007 $500 from The Bottle Shop thebottleshop.hk
Cosy night in Netflix and chill in style with these home comforts. By Nicole Slater Goddess bath bomb $85 from Lush lush.com
White natural Himalayan salt lamp 30 | hongkongliving.com
$588 from Himalayan Magics himalayanmagics.com
Sublime Replenishing Night Masque $920 from Aesop aesop.com
Sara Miller zebra mug
MUST HAVES
$199 from Indigo Living indigo-living.com
Piet I geo cushion cover $250 from Home Essentials homeessentials.com.hk
Swiss Miss marshmallow lover cocoa mix $28.5 from ParknShop parknshop.com
Gloria sofa $13,990 from Indigo Living indigo-living.com
hongkongliving.com | 31
32 | hongkongliving.com
PETS
Ask a vet... Dr Pauline answers your cat queries this month My cat loves exploring our garden. What can I do to prevent her from bringing germs into the house? The only way to truly do this would be to stop your cat going out into your garden. Pet cats can get anxiety issues and anything we can do to reduce stress in our pets should always be supported. If she really needs time out of your house to express her natural predatory instincts, it’s important to keep her anxiety levels down. Enclosing cats in confined environments can lead to some life threatening medical problems and behavior issues. Since you are probably also spending part of your day outside, you are just as likely to bring garden germs into your home. My advice would be simple. As long as you have a happy healthy normally behaving cat and enforce good home cleaning and disinfection, and brush/groom your cat regularly then you don’t need to worry about the germs. My cat keeps waking me up for food in the middle of the night. I don’t feed her
but she keeps doing it. How can I get her out of that habit? If this was my cat I’d make sure she had some food in her bowl at bedtime on a daily basis. If you know it’s only food she is craving, you can try a food delivery toy set to go off during the night. This will deposit some food around your house to keep her amused as well as fed. It will be a much easier practice to adopt than trying to break a habit. I’ve heard of people trying to shut cats out of their bedroom but that doesn’t work because the cats will then just scratch the bedroom door and continue to wake their human ‘provider’. Couples have split up due to arguing about their cat, or abandoned their cat to save the relationship. It’s true to say that cats have a different internal body clock to humans. They eat, sleep and play at different times, so it may not be food your cat wants. It may be time to play or hunt and your cat looks to you for these needs in her environment.
What to plant in
September
Weather facts: - Average high temperature: 30°C - Average low temperature: 25°C - Average rainfall: 327.6mm - Average rainfall days: 14.7 days September heralds not only the longawaited back-to-school season, but also the return to the grindstone for all you gardeners. Leave the kids to their technology devices and don loose-fitting attire so you can get your hands dirty. Summer in Hong Kong swelters on, with temperatures ranging between 25ºC and 31ºC. It’s also the height of typhoon season and unpredictable weather, rain or shine, presents an extra challenge to the intrepid gardener. Just about anything is possible, so come prepared for all eventualities. The heat this month makes it the ideal time to plant out your tomatoes, some much-needed colour amidst these dreary summer storms. Meanwhile, celery should be transplanted from seed pans into carefully-made nurse beds, which provide excellent drainage and will protect your seedlings from pesky bugs and slugs. Seeds of the following may be sown: Chinese spinach, lettuce, sweet corn, Chinese green and white cabbage, radish, cauliflower and carrot – all delightful vegetables. Mustard and cress may also be planted now, although one may prefer to plant these in October in less inclement weather. To plan ahead for next month’s gardening, obtain a good quantity of brinjal seeds for sowing, and towards the end of September make sure to manure the beds for the bulk of the winter crops. A prepared gardener is a perfect gardener, as I always say, although my partner informs me I may need a catchy slogan. By William James Tutcher F.L.S. (1867-1920) Superintendent of Hong Kong Botanical Gardens. Paraphrased from his seminal 1906 work Gardening for Hong Kong.
Got a question for Dr. Pauline? Email editorial@hongkongliving.com hongkongliving.com | 33
MARKETPLACE
marketplace
To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772.
34 | hongkongliving.com To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772
COVIDATING
Flirting with a facemask Relationship coach Valentina Tudose on dating during a pandemic right thing by keeping the mask on (well done you for staying safe). If you want to communicate to your partner that you are attracted to them, make sure your body and feet are facing them as much as possible. Your feet position (as well as theirs) is the biggest give away as they show exactly where we want to go. If they point away from the person you clearly are not giving them the right signal. Pro tip: Tilt your head to show them you are listening and gently nod every now and then to reassure them you get what they are saying.
Opportunities for connection The biggest gift we can give each other is time and attention, being fully present with someone is going to make a big difference. Build on the eye contact and body positioning by getting closer, gently testing the limits of their personal space (obviously only after you established that your interest is reciprocated). Pro tip: Touch is a critical component to creating a connection as it promotes feelings of safety and builds trust. Caution is needed here as moving too fast and invading one’s personal space can backfire. Stick to casual touches on forearms, elbows and - if you’re not too worried about the virus, hands as these are ‘safe zones’ for most people. As if there weren’t enough problems in our dating lives, social distancing and mandatory mask wearing have made things a little more complicated. If you are single, shy or have not mastered the basics of flirting, the pandemic has probably convinced you to take your mind off dating completely. I don’t blame you. But don’t give up just yet, here are some tips for attracting a suitor with or without a mask.
Eyes are the window to the soul
miss the opportunity for connection. Make each look count by setting the intention of connecting energetically with this person to let them feel your interest. Hold their gaze for a minimum of four seconds as anything beyond a cursory glance will register as personal interest and possibly lead to an opening line. Pro tip: Give them the eye-brow flash. Rising our eyebrows is usually a sign of surprise or admiration so in the context of flirting this means “I’m very pleased to meet you”.
Your mask covers most of your face and stops people from seeing that smile so if you spot someone hot while you’re out for a walk, what can you do? Don’t forget that your eyes are actually the best way of transmitting the irresistible message of attraction. Wearing a mask enables you and the object of your attention to focus on meeting each other’s eyes, instead of the general look at someone’s head we typically give to strangers. When we have to take in all the details of a face, we actually only see a blur and often
You’ve probably heard that only seven percent of communication is verbal but most of us only worry about what to say when it comes to flirting. The words are actually not that important, most of our attention is focused on facial expressions. The mask is again an impediment, but also creates an opportunity to change the rules of engagement. You may be on a first date and doing the
Let your body talk
Valentina Tudose is a relationship coach and founder of Happy Ever After. For more information visit happyeverafter.asia
hongkongliving.com | 35
BACKPAGE
Waiting for a steak from heaven
Nury Vittachi complains that he has never been hit by a cow from the sky Like many people, I regularly look up to the heavens and say “why has a cow never fallen on me?” One of the main reasons discerning consumers like me chose to live on planet Earth is that life here is full of delightful surprises. Whales explode, dumb criminals break into police stations, religious images appear on pizzas and most memorably of all, large animals fall on us out of clear blue skies. Life, there’s nothing really quite like it. But it can be unfair. The other day I was lamenting that no beast has ever fallen out of the sky on me, with the exception of an incident when I was nine, when a love-crazed young woman in my class leapt on me from a tree giving me a life-long fear of trees, women, the sky and let’s face it, life in general. The same cannot be said about a man motoring down the highway in Changchun, China. His journey was interrupted by a cow descending out of the blue and landing on the hood of his car. The cow, which police speculate may have fallen out of a speeding truck and somehow bounced into the air, had no motor insurance, third-party or otherwise. In the US state of Washington, a large object fell from the sky onto the roof of a minivan belonging to Charles and Linda Everson. Mr Everson 49, got out of the car to see what had hit it and his wife heard him repeating, “I don’t believe it,” according to media reports. She joined him to find it was, yes, another cow. Police suspect the 300-kilogram beast threw itself off a nearby cliff, possibly distraught over the results of Australian MasterChef. In Alaska, a flying moose crash-landed in front of state trooper Howard Peterson. He told reporters that the moose, considered primarily a land animal, can soar through the air. “They can fly and they can land,” he told the Anchorage Daily News. “Just not very well.” Similar incidents take place in Europe. Norway resident Leo Henriksen was enjoying a leisurely Sunday drive with his wife when a 350-kilogram moose landed on their car. People are always going on and on about how brilliant Japanese cars are, but the wreckage made it clear that the manufacturer, Mazda Corp, neglected to include any sort of protection from giant descending mammals. Hard to believe, I know. Asia, of course, is the world capital of bizarre road hazards. In this region, my
36 | hongkongliving.com
road journeys have been interrupted by the sudden emergence of monkeys, elephants, wildebeest and scariest of all leaping herds of demonstrators demanding more repression (this is surprisingly common in Asia.) Some years ago I reported on a traffic accident involving a collision between a small truck and a large fish. It sounds odd until I tell you that it happened in Bangladesh, where it makes perfect sense. Several districts in that country cannot make up their minds as to whether they are land or sea and shift from one to another at a moment’s notice. One recent summer, frogs and toads fell from the skies on and off for a whole month in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. In February a few years ago, fish twice rained down in the Northern Territory of Australia. Over a bowl of noodles at a hawker center, I brought up this subject and several diners shared tales of strange items falling from the sky, ranging from cash to children. “People hang their clothes out to dry and things fall out of the pockets,” a diner explained. A week later, I had a personal experience of a gift from the skies. I was being driven along a highway in Hong Kong behind a truck containing live fish headed for a restaurant. It went over a bump. A surprised-looking garoupa flew into the air and then slapped onto our windscreen. It bounced away before I could claim it for lunch. I have invested in steak sauce and a roof rack. Somewhere, my cow is waiting.
Nury Vittachi is an award-winning author and journalist based in Hong Kong. He is best known for his comedy-crime novel series, The Feng Shui Detective. Contact him via nury@vittachi.com or through his public Facebook page.
hongkongliving.com | 37
1 | hongkongliving.com
