Sai Kung Nov 2016

FAMILY | FOOD | HOME | SPORT | LIVING

November 2016

NEW

Top hikes in the New Territories

Hebe Haven Yacht Club’s 24 Hour Charity Dinghy Race

Sai Kung’s best breakfasts

POLIC BLO E TTER

NOVEMBER 1 - 30 2016 RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL PRACTICED PRICES SUBJECT TO 10% SERVICE CHARGE | THIS OFFER IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE 4/F, Centro, 1A Chui Tong Road, Sai Kung, N.T., Hong Kong

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The really useful magazine November 2016

PEOPLE

ON PATROL

4 Snapped!

Sai Kung’s social life.

23 Police blotter Cases from Sai Kung Police.

THE PLANNER

LOCAL

8 Happening in November What’s on.

FAMILY

24 On the front burner Shop front extension penalties.

VILLAGE FOCUS

14 Christmas markets Stock up on festive goodies.

NEWS

26 Tui Min Hoi The village across the sea.

FEATURE

16 What’s going on?

In your backyard.

28 Tin Hau Temple’s 100th birthday A look back at its history and the celebrations ahead.

GIVEAWAYS 20 Free stuff Fab things to win.

EATING

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

22 Li Fuk Hong Chairman of the Sai Kung District Community Centre.

34 Rise and shine Sai Kung’s best breakfasts. Plus nibbles and recipe.

EDUCATION 38 Mind your language Language classes for kids.

SPORTS 42 Anchors aweigh A 24 hour race at Hebe Haven Yacht Club.

OUTDOORS 44 Hike to it The best hikes in the New Territories.

TRAVEL 48 Nihiwatu Is it the best hotel in the world?

HEALTH 50 I’m an expat mum and I’m an alcoholic A recovering alcoholic and her story.

PETS 52 SPCA case files Thomas the dog.

DOCTOR DOCTOR 52 We ask Dr. Anders “We have a dog and are about to have a baby. How can we prepare her for the baby’s arrival?”

NEWS FROM THE GREENS 53 Walk the walk How walkable is Hong Kong?

VINES IN SAI KUNG 60 Trouble down the road Vehicle permit applications, problematic road users and existentialism in practice.

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“WHAT IS DISCORD AT ONE LEVEL OF YOUR BEING IS HARMONY AT ANOTHER LEVEL.” - ALAN WATTS

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contributors

Shreena Patel

Hayden Kwok

Tom Hilditch

Shreena is editor-in-chief at Fast Media. Born in London, she used to work for a bank but moved to Hong Kong for love, sunshine and a change of career. Shreena’s favourite time of year is Christmas. Find out where she’ll be buying her stocking fillers on page 14.

Growing up in Canada, Hayden returned to Hong Kong a few years ago to follow her passion to work with animals in Asia. In her free time, you can often find Hayden playing with dogs or hiding out with the cats in the adoption centres at the SPCA. She has a pet Schnauzer named Daisy. Read about Thomas the dog rescued from SPCA on page 52.

Travelling with children makes everything fun again. This month Tom, publisher at Fast Media and a former writer for Esquire Magazine, checks out the Nihiwatu Resort - allegedly the best hotel IN THE WORLD, and sees it through the eyes of his three-year old son, Harry Hilditch. Read the review on page 48.

Want to write for Sai Kung Magazine? Contact editorial@fastmedia.com.hk

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Creating a Dynamic envirOnment for play, inquiry and learning.

Hong Kong Academy Early Childhood Open Houses are designed for parents of children ages 3-5 years old. Parents have the opportunity to tour HKA facilities, hear from our Admissions Team and Primary School Principal, and find out more about the learning curriculum at HKA.

Early Childhood

Open HOuses

17th nov 9:30am to 11:00am 8th Dec 9:30am to 11:00am Hope to see you there! Spaces are limited, and only registered participants may attend.

Early Childhood Open Houses are intended for parents and guardians only. To register, visit hkacademy.edu.hk/visitus

HKA is an IB World School offering a rigorous international education for children ages 3 to 18. Come visit us in Sai Kung to learn more about our dynamic learning community. For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact our admissions team at admissions@hkacademy.edu.hk. learning, growing, understanding

www.hkacademy.edu.hk

Find us on the web.

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people Snaps from Sai Kung

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say cheese Snaps from Sai Kung

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people

Photos by Mariella C. Amitai Photography

Sai Kung Pink Ladies’ 50 Shades of Pink Long Lunch

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people

Clean Pak Sha Wan Day

Share your event photos with us at editorial@fastmedia.com.hk. Get snapping!

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planner

NOV 3-6

Clearwater Bay Open 2016

A part of the PGA TOUR China Series, international and local players will tee off in the 72-hole tournament, held at The Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club. Tickets $40-100 per day or $192-240 for a four-day pass, available from ticketflap.com. For more information, visit www.cwbgolf.org

NOV 6 Spartan Race Duck and dive, sprint and climb, push yourself to the limit at Hong Kong’s first Spartan Race featuring more than 20 obstacles over a 6km course. Entry fee starts at $790. Sign up for the race and details at www.spartanrace.hk

NOV 6 Sai Kung Sunday Market Shop your way through over 50 vendors selling a range of jewellery, fine wines, arts and crafts and handmade products. Held at Hong Kong Academy. 11am-5pm. For more information visit www.saikungmarkets.com

NOV 6 SRACP Charity Walk & Run 2016 The fourth Charity Walk & Run organised by The Society of Rehabilitation and Crime Prevention (SCRAP) raises awareness about the needs of ex-offenders and their families. Funds will

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be donated to strengthen the organisation’s assistance for the underprivileged and to expand crime prevention services. 9am-3pm. PHAB Site, Pak Tak Chung, Sai Kung. www.sracp.org.hk/walk2016

art tours. The only ticketed event, The Gallery Walk for Charity, sees over 40 galleries open their doors for an evening of art, music and dance installations, plus wine and nibbles. Visit www.hkartweek.org for more details.

NOV 8-13 Best of British Fair A little slice of Britain comes to Tamar Park as the Best of British Fair showcases top British grub, live music, croquet on the lawn and children’s entertainment. Don’t miss out on the open air cinema with British classics shown each night.

Visit bestofbritish.hk for more details.

UNTIL NOV 9 Hong Kong Art Week Open to the general public, enjoy over 100 free exhibitions and events including gallery talks and Best of British Fair returns to Hong Kong.

happening in November NOV 12 Pride Party HK - The Big Gay Bash The LGBT bash will be as colourful as it gets live entertainment, international performers and many surprises throughout the night. 7pm till

late. Japas Beach Club at High Island. Tickets are $980 from ticketflap.com which includes unlimited food, drinks and shisha.

NOV 12 Mix and Mingle Art and Wine Night Magic show, live music and art performances, as well as artwork and door prizes. The event aims to assist Cary Baumgartner’s medical fees.

5-9pm, the Hive Sai Kung. Email skhosts@thehive.com.hk for more information.

NOV 12 Hong Kong Road Relays

Philharmonic. 7.30pm, Central Harbourfront Event Space. Free admission but pre-registration required at ticketflap.com. For more information, visit www.hkphil.org

NOV 12 Dragon Run 2016 Distance racing in outrigger canoes (OCs), skis and SUPs. There are two courses available: long (24km, starting at Clearwater Bay and finishing in Stanley) and short (9km for skis and OCs; 5km for SUPs, starting and finishing at Stanley’s Hong Kong Sea School). Register online by 4pm on November 11 at thedragonrun.com.hk

Two 3km dash for individual participants, and a 4x3km relay challenge for teams. Held at the Science Park in Sha Tin. Registration fee starts from $720 at eventbrite.com. 9am-3pm. Part of the proceeds will be donated to Hong Kong AntiCancer Society.

NOV 12 Symphony Under the Stars Sai Kung’s Big Gay Bash.

Hong Kong’s largest outdoor concert with musical performances by the Hong Kong

Distance racing for Dragon Run 2016.

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planner NOV 12 Lamma Fun Day Beach Music Festival Spend the day listening to some of Hong Kong’s best bands playing live on Tai Wan To Beach.

Plus, enjoy DJs, a licensed bar, arts and crafts stalls, a charity auction, sports and activities for kids. Organised by volunteers and the Child Welfare Scheme Hong Kong, this popular community event has been running for 16 years, raising money for education projects Nepal. Free entry. 1-11pm, Tai Wan To Beach, Lamma Island.

For more information, visit facebook.com/LammaFunDay

Treats await at Peak to Fong.

Enjoy live music at Lamma Fun Day.

UNTIL NOV 13 Thriller Live The electrifying concert created to commemorate one of the world’s greatest entertainers comes direct from London’s West End to The Parisian Macao as its first ever show.

Tickets start from $180 from www.cotaiticketing.com or call 6333 6660.

NOV 13 Peak to Fong Dogs and dog lovers walk from The Peak to Lan Kwai Fong in aid of Hong Kong Dog Rescue.

Treats await at the end. Tickets $250 for adults and $220 for children, combination discounts available. The walk begins at 11am.

More information at www.hongkongdogrescue.com/p2f2016

sourced and sustainable products from local vendors. 6.30-9pm on Nov 14, 10-12.30pm on Nov 15. Hebe Haven, Pak Sha Wan.

2 Tin Kwong Road, Ho Man Tin. For more info or to reserve your seats, email yasmeen.ashraf@kgv.edu.hk

NOV 17 Sai Kung Sampler

NOV 18-19 Beertopia

In the run up to Christmas, there will be a display of stalls set up by local businesses at Casa near the seafront. Stalls include Not Only Olives, Ladies Who Lunch fashion, EEK Toys and more.

11am-5pm. Coffee and prosecco available. For more information, call Claire Brownless on 6100 0253.

This year’s beer festival is expected to include over 500 different beers from around the world.

Not a beer lover? Don’t worry - with over 20 restaurants, there’s plenty of food to choose from as well. Tickets start at $285 from beertopiahk.com

NOV 18 KGV Gala 2016 - Disco Night The school is holding a disco themed gala dinner in celebration of their 80th anniversary. Happy hour begins at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. Put on your dancing shoes for the disco starting at 9pm.

Tickets are $400 per person or $700 per couple.

NOV 19 Abacus BBQ Fun Day This year’s theme is “Under the Sea”, and will be packed with a variety of stalls selling books, accessories and jewellery, food, bouncy castle and games. 11am-3pm, 1A Mang Kung Uk Road, Clearwater Bay, 2719 5712, abacus.lg.esf.edu.hk

NOV 13 Non-Chinese Speaking Education Fair 2016 Booths displaying various cultural activities with a chance to win prizes in the lucky draw.

Free entry, 9.30am-3pm, Hong Kong Adventist College, 1111 Clear Water Bay Road, Sai Kung, www.hkac.edu

NOV 14 & 15 Feel Good Fair Organised by Resurrection Church, the event will be offering community Christmas shopping with a conscience. You’ll be able to find ethically

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Sample over 500 beers at Beertopia.

planner NOV 19-20 Lan Kwai Fong Carnival 2016 Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the streets of Lan Kwai Fong will be filled with performers, games, various stalls and neon coloured lights.

Plus face painting for the kids. Free. 1pm to midnight on Nov 19 and 1-10pm on Nov 20. www.lankwaifong.com

NOV 25-27 Clockenflap The annual music festival changes location to Central this year. The line-up includes Icelandic post-rockers Sigur Rós, reggae Kiwi band Fat Freddy’s Drop and Swedish indie folk singer-songwriter and guitarist José González.

Tickets from $850 from www.clockenflap.com.

Concessions available.

NOV 26 Operation Santa Claus Charity Quiz Form a team and challenge each other in a pop quiz held at Hebe Haven Yacht Club to raise money for Operation Santa Claus. Doors open at 7pm, buffet dinner at 7.30pm and quiz at 8.30pm. Tickets are $450 (including dinner and one free drink). Email saikungchristmasquiz@gmail.com Rock out at Clockenflap.

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planner

BOOK NOW DEC 2-4 Hong Kong International Boat Show Since starting in 1982, the event showcases mid range motor yachts as well as several super yachts. Free admission. Club Marina Cove, Sai Kung. For more information, visit www.clubmarinacove.com or call 2719 6622.

DEC 3 Autumn-Winter Garage Sale

DEC 8-JAN 22 Wicked

The Garage Sale will include a wide range of vendors offering new and secondhand goods. 9.30am-3pm, LG3 car park, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clearwater Bay. Registration starts November 1 for the December sale, contact Jean on 9045 5942 or email gujean@ust.hk for more info.

The spellbinding musical, which has cast its magic on more than 50 million theatre goers worldwide, takes to the stage at the Hong Kong Academy for the Performing Arts. Inspired

by L. Frank Baum’s Wizard of Oz, find out how the wicked witch of the west became so wonderfully wicked. Tickets from $445 at www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editorial@fastmedia.com.hk.

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planner

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family

NOV 5 Clearwater Bay School

Christmas Markets

Clearwater Bay School will hold its 25th Anniversary International Fair to recognise the cultural diversity of the school. Packed with various stalls selling goods, dance performances, bands, fashion shows and games. Tickets $50 available at the door. Available to ESF families only.

1-5pm. Lot 235, DD229, Clearwater Bay Road, 2358 3221, cwbs.edu.hk

Get a headstart on your holiday shopping.

NOV 19 The HK French Catholic Community annual Christmas Fair and Garage Sale

NOV 21 & 29, DEC 8 & 14 Conrad Fairs

Need to get rid of unwanted toys and books and make a bit of space (and cash) for Christmas? Head here. Reserve your spot for $200 in aid of charities Mayaa Nepal and PSE. No need to pre book, simply bring your blanket to mark out your space. All unsold items must be removed at the end of the day. 3.30-6pm, Rosary Hill School, 41B Stubbs Road, Wan Chai.

Hundreds of stalls selling gifts and lifestyle products on November 21, followed by The PreChristmas Gift Parade which features international pop-up shops selling jewellery, stationery, food, beauty products and more on November 29. The Christmas Gift Showcase and The Christmas Gift Festival follow in December. Free admission. 10am8pm. Grand Ballroom, Conrad Hotel, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, www.prestigefairs.hk

NOV 23 Kee Club Annual Holiday Bazaar

DEC 3 French International School

Shop Hong Kong’s best brands under one glamourous roof. This year's event spans both floors of KEE, with an all day "dim sum" bar and plenty of mulled wine, minced pies and tunes to get you into the holiday spirit.

This year’s charity partner is Room to Read. Free admission and open to the public. 11am to 8pm, KEE Club, 32-40 Wellington Street, Central

The school’s Christmas fair returns with a kids’ wonderland, festive refreshments and over 35 stalls for all your Christmas shopping needs. Plus, a surprise visit from Santa.

34 Price Road, Jardine’s Lookout, 2577 6217, www.fis.edu.hk

DEC 3 Island School

DEC 24-28 Hong Kong Food Festival Stock up on tasty Christmas treats for the family. Tickets are $20, available at the door. Hall 3, HKEC, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai.

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Celebrating its 50 year, Island School is hosting a “Island 5-0” winter arts festival. On top of international food hall, craft beer stalls, and games, there will be performances by students and alumni, music, drama, dance and visual arts will be on display which is available for visitors to interact and participate in. 3-10pm. Entry $20. 20 Borrett Road, Mid-levels, 2524 7135, island.edu.hk

family NOV 15 The American Club NOV 6 Jewish Women’s Association Annual Charity Bazaar Shop clothes, homewares, cosmetics, toys and more. Take ID for admission. Free admission for children, $30 for adults. All proceeds go to charity. 10am-5pm.

Island School, 20 Borrett Road, Mid-levels, jwa.org.hk

Local and international high-end vendors. Open to members, guests and RSVP. 10am-6pm, 28 Tai Tam Road, Vista Ballroom. Credit cards accepted. For more information, contact shoppinghongkong@gmail. com

NOV 19 Chinese International School Fair This year’s theme is "CIS United: Building Community," showcasing the school community’s charitable service work.

Highlights include a vintage clothing stall, bake sale, secondhand book sale, plus games, prizes and lots of food. Free entry.

10am-4pm, 1 Hau Yuen Path, Braemar Hill, North Point, www.cisfair.com

DEC 1 The Fayre of St. John’s NOV 26 German Swiss International School Compete in fun and challenging games, snack on a mix of German and Asian delicacies and groove to live music at GSIS’ Christmas Bazaar. The bazaar supports the charitable efforts of the school’s senior students. 10am4pm. Free entry. Peak campus, 22 Guildford Road, The Peak, mygsis.gsis.edu.hkcom

Raise fund for Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre at the magnificent St. John’s Cathedral with an evening of carols, mince pies, mulled wine and performances from some of Hong Kong’s noted celebrities and singers.

Tickets start from $2,500 and can be purchased by making a direct donation to Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre.

DEC 1-2 Fringe Club This annual event is packed with local and international high-end vendors. 12-7pm, 2 Lower Albert Road, Central. Anita Chan Lai Gallery, G/F. Open to the public. Credit cards accepted. For more information, contact shoppinghongkong@gmail.com

DEC 2 Quarry Bay School

DEC 9 King George V School

Run by Quarry Bay School’s parents, the Christmas Winter Fayre will include an international food stall where you’ll find delicacies from around the world. Don’t miss the lucky draw, games stalls and special performances. Tickets $10 per person. 5.308.30pm, 6 Hau Yuen Path, Braemar Hill, North Point, 2566 4242, qbs.edu.hk

Alongside Kowloon Junior School and Jockey Club Sarah Roe School, the KGV Christmas fair will feature food and drinks stalls with the highlight of the night being the carol concert where student musicians and singers will perform Christmas classics.

Stalls open at 5pm, concert starts at 6pm at KGV’s Piazza. 2 Tin Kwong Road, Ho Man Tin, 2711 3029, www.kgv.edu.hk

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news Sai Kung Pink Ladies raises money for charity

New restaurant in the Square

Organised by Sai Kung Pink Ladies for breast cancer awareness month, the Fifty Shades of Pink Long Lunch held last month attracted over 80 women with special guest, glamour guru Eve Roth Lindsay. The day involved lunch, fashion and style presentations as well as raffles and prizes for the best dressed. The sixth event for the group, a total of $40,350 was raised for Hong Kong Breast Council Foundation - a significant more than last year’s event. “Thank you for making it such a fun, fabulous and memorable afternoon - and to all the wonderful sponsors, supporters and volunteers who made the event possible,” says Chief Organiser Ellen Hobson.

Husband and wife-run, Enoteca Group will be launching new restaurant, The Conservatory, in Sai Kung Square in mid to late November.

Taking over the space of Grande, the group has signed a six year agreement with the landlord for an undisclosed amount and purchased the fitted equipment from the owners of Grande. “Both were reasonable numbers that made opening a business viable”, notes Enoteca Group Director and Clearwater Bay resident, Robert Cooper.

The space comes with an outdoor seating license.

“We’ve watched Sai Kung grow over 20 years and feel that with the growth of residences and international schools, there’s now a wider dining market now than ever before”. Following on from its other restaurants in SoHo, The Conservatory will bring a combination of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Pan Asian cuisine to Sai Kung. The menu will focus on shared plates and feature some of the favourite dishes from their sister restaurants. Some highlights include pesto chicken and parmesan risotto balls, smoked tuna ceviche and coffee banoffee pie.

To fit in with the atmosphere of Sai Kung Square, the restaurant will be family-oriented with a healthy kids’ breakfast menu, brunch and a la carte dishes.

“We looked at a bunch of sites but the Square is family-friendly. It’s a social focal point for us as parents so it’ll be a relaxed and pleasant environment to work in.” Cooper adds, “Although we are excited to be part of the street scene, be gentle with us Sai Kung, there are always teething problems”.

G/F, 26 Wan King Path, Sai Kung, www.enotecagroup.com

Local veterinarian launches new novel

Dr. David Gething conquers World Marathon Challenge 2015. (inset): Relentless

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Clearwater Bay resident and owner of Creature Comforts, Dr. David Gething, has written a book, Relentless. The book document his fitness challenge of conquering and winning the World Marathon Challenge in 2015, providing an insider’s guide to the ultimate physical challenge as well as an Aussie expat’s life in Hong Kong. The World Marathon Challenge saw Gething compete in seven marathons across seven continents in seven days which started in Union Glacier in Antarctica and finished in Sydney, Australia. Not only did Gething win the challenge but he also set two new records in the process. Gething has been invited to speak at the Hong Kong International Literary Festival in November. For more information on Dr. Gething or his book, visit ww.davidgething.com

in your backyard

It’s a Sai Kung affair Mix and Mingle Art and Wine Night, has been organised at the Hive in Sai Kung on November 12 starting from 5pm. The Sai Kung community has come together to assist local resident Cary Baumgartner’s battle to combat cancer.

Baumgartner was diagnosed with Metastatic Melanoma in June this year, which has now spread to his liver and lungs. The event will have local resident Paul Hart as the auctioneer with various acts from Sai Kung residents including a magic show by Matthew Owen, a live art show by Katherine Sparrow and music from local band, ‘Stolen Thunder’. Over twenty artists including Helen Boyd and Tony Cheng and fifteen local businesses have gifted their artwork, products and services as auction items and door prizes. Vouchers for sale for food and wine at the door. Email skhosts@thehive.com.hk for more information.

The Sai Kung community has come together to help Cary Baumgartner.

Mui wins Spirit of Hong Kong Awards

Mui Thomas with parents, Roger and Tina.

Mui Thomas, born with rare skin condition, Harlequin Ichthyosis, was nominated and has won “Overcoming Personal Challenge Award” in the Spirit of Hong Kong Awards, hosted by South China Morning Post, as well as winning the overall “People’s Choice Award”. Nominated

by Designing Hong Kong back in July, the award series recognises and celebrates the achievements of real people in Hong Kong.

Thomas was up against 26 other nominees of the same category. “Winning the award felt really special. It was a testament to all of the efforts we’ve made as a family to raise awareness,” says Thomas. Along with her award, Thomas received $20,000 and has agreed to give half of her prize to assist in helping others. “I hope that this win

will give us opportunities to further educate people on discrimination and issues that continue to arise today”. Thomas’ parents, Roger and Tina collected Mui’s award as she was in Vietnam on a work trip. “We have shared our story in the hope of helping and inspiring others, including others with visible differences and their families.

These awards will help us to continue to raise awareness.” adds Roger Thomas. “We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone in Sai Kung and beyond who voted for our daughter”.

The Thomas family will be holding a talk at Sha Tin College as well as a talk to adolescents dealing with suicidal issues at the Samaritans.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/ GirlBehindTheFace

HKGTA Charity Foundation launches new community Active Youth Grants In a bid to encourage children and young people to lead healthy and active lifestyles through sports, Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy Charity Foundation (HKGTA Charity Foundation) has introduced Active Youth Grants. The grants will provide funds to Hong Kong wide community organisations, NGOs and schools with a preference to groups in the Sai Kung district.

“We hope our new Active Youth Grants will enable more people to develop and be nurtured through active participation in sports,” says Head of the Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy, Hubert Aw. Sports equipment, training facilities, courses, community events and competitions will be covered under a grand total of $100,000 per grant, per applicant. Applicants need to demonstrate a tangible need for the grant, a thorough plan of how the funds will be used and how the program will benefit the local community. Application deadline is December 2 with grant awards being announced on February 6 next year.

To apply or for more information, visit www.hkgtafoundation.org

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news

New reads from James Stevenson Tai Wan Village resident and English teacher, James Stevenson, has launched his first novel, The Medusa File, with the cover illustrated by Stevenson’s brother, Robert. Using his vivid imagination and inspired by his son, Thomas, The Medusa File is an action adventure novel.

It follows the story of a teenager, Harvey, who loses his parents at a young age in questionable circumstances and his travels to unravel some answers surrounding his parents’ death.

“I prefer to write about places I know first-hand, using the rich palette of experience to make my writing authentic,” says Stevenson. It is the first book of the Harvey Ashton series and sets the foundation for the continuing story, “The next book in the series will take readers to Colombia, offering a window to the thriving culture and diverse landscape”. Stevenson will be holding a book launch at Victoria Recreation Club in Emerald Bay on December 2. The Medusa File is available on Amazon, The Book Depository and Kobo Books. Keep up to date with Stevenson’s stories and events at www.facebook.com/ TheMedusaFile Tai Wan Village resident James Stevenson. (inset): The Medusa File.

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news

Casa Square relaunches as Casa Cena After a few months away, one of the original cofounders James Bradshaw, is back on board with Casa. Bradshaw has relaunched the restaurant in the Square, with the new name Casa Cena. “I want to run with the original vision I had for Casa.

It’s a concept that I’d like to see in Sai Kung,” says Bradshaw. Instead of bringing dishes from Casa’s two other restaurants, you will now find the menu revolves around a Japanese-American diner concept as Bradshaw says he is more familiar in dealing with Japanese ingredients and flavours. The menu will include more American type food like buffalo wings but with Japanese twists and portion sizes like adding an onsen egg instead of poached or scrambled eggs.

Casa Bradshaw is working on providing a kids’ menu, vegan and vegetarian options and a delivery service. Casa Cena will be going under transformation in the coming months.

9 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung Square.

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giveaways Insight School of Interior Design Insight School of Interior Design is Hong Kong’s only school dedicated to all things design. It offers a year-long diploma, plus 16 different short courses, from textiles to history of furniture, lighting and feng shui.

This month, one lucky reader will win the opportunity to attend a day-long course at the school. To enter, tell us which short course you’d like to study and why. www.insightschoolhk.com Deadline: November 21

win at www.saikung.com Maven

Tute.HK

Maven is a shop of treasures. They carry great quality products for your home décor, home fragrance, fashion and body & bath needs.

Through extensive research, products of the highest quality are sourced from around the world and brought straight to their stores. Four lucky readers will win either a jar of rose hand cream or a rose guest soap set from Portuguese brand Castelbel. The hand cream is paraben-free, lightweight and produced with the highest quality raw materials, while the soap set is made with exquisite and sophisticated fragrances.

Tute.HK provides premium online tutoring in all subjects with experienced tutors from the best UK universities.

What would you like your child to learn online? Tell us the what and why and win a free online lesson worth $500! We have two lessons to give away.

The free lesson may be used for any subject. The two winners will be announced on November 10 on Tute.HK’s Facebook page.

The free lesson must be used by November 30, 2016. facebook.com/Tute.hk

Deadline: November 23

Deadline: November 9

Bilingual Education

Massada Spa

Bilingual Education aims to give your child a solid bilingual foundation through Mandarin and Cantonese courses taught by native speakers.

They also have themed classes for students up to 6 years old, and cognitive classes for those aged 4-12.

One lucky winner will win a $2,000 voucher for eight 90-minute oneon-one classes (including interview workshops, Mandarin classes, Cantonese classes, and speech therapist consultations). www.bilingual.com.hk

Massada The Natural Therapy combines the newest biotechnology and pharmaceutical technology to offer natural, non-surgical facial solutions for different types of skin. For over 30 years, it has been using minerals, muds and precious plant extracts collected from the Dead Sea and other places around the world.

Originally from Spain, Massada has opened its first spa in Hong Kong. The Causeway Bay retreat specialises in antiaging facial treatments, body treatments, professional manis and pedis.

We’re giving away one Massada Antiaging Caviar Deluxe Facial Treatment worth $1,680 for a lucky reader.

Deadline: November 25

Deadline: November 22

Subscribe to our e-newsletter to get all our giveaways delivered straight to your inbox: saikung.com/subscribe

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five minutes with

Publisher

Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk

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Li Fuk Hong

Eric Ho speaks to the third generation Chairman of the Sai Kung District Community Centre.

I’ve lived in Sai Kung pretty much my whole life. I was born here, raised here and am still here. In 1976 I lived in South Kent, England for a short while. I came back to Sai Kung due to family matters.

My family have a long history with the Sai Kung District Community Centre (SKDCC), not only was my dad a former chairman but my grandad also once held the same position. My dad was the former chairman before my mentor took over. He was getting old and told me to come over and help.

At the time I was working as a material tester in Tuen Mun. Since I was born in Sai Kung, I had a great attachment to this place.

So I started helping out and in the blink of an eye it has now been 20 years and I’ve become chairman in this time.

I have a son and daughter.

My daughter was in fact one

22 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

of the first writers for Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay Magazine. If either of them decided to pursue the position of chairman I would happily support them. I would never force them to take this path if they didn’t want to, it would have no meaning if I did. I’ll leave their futures up to them.

There’s so much I love about Sai Kung. Some of my favourite things are the fresh air and the peaceful life you can have here.

In my spare time I like to hike as well. Sai Kung has some really beautiful views and it’s always great to go outdoors. I particularly like Ma On Shan, Fei Ngo Shan and Tai Long Sai Wan. I don’t think there has been a drastic change in Sai Kung compared to when I was young.

Since Sai Kung is the back garden of Hong Kong, a lot of developments are restricted here such as the height of buildings.

The increase in the number of tourists has had little effect on the Tin Hau Temple which we look after. In Chinese tradition locals tend to do their worships in the morning, the tourists come to visit later during the day.

The biggest change I’ve seen over the years are the shops running business in Sai Kung.

Most of the old traditional shops have disappeared now, and have become new eateries. This is mostly due to Sai Kung being a tourist destination which is greatly affecting the businesses that can survive here.

Before taking up this role, the previous chairman, my mentor, would give me words of encouragement. But there has been one particular phrase which has stuck with me for all these years, ‘’When doing such a public job, we must do it wholeheartedly.”

on patrol

Police blotter Senior Inspector Max Yip reports on the recent cases in Sai Kung.

- A dead male body, believed to be in his mid

40s, was found floating in the sea near Conic Island. Initially discovered by a fisherman, body checks found no obvious wounds.

Police found Chinese yuan in his belongings and thus Sai Kung police has contacted the relevant mainland police department for assistance; investigations are still ongoing.

- The preparations for Tin Hau Temple’s 100th

anniversary celebrations are underway. The police have held meetings with the Sai Kung District Community Centre and Sai Kung District Council to ensure safety of visitors to the upcoming events.

- There was a gas explosion on rented land

used to keep beehives by the occupant near Pai Tau Village. The male occupant was cooking sugar but forgot to turn the fire off when he left the premise. The fire subsequently spread causing the next door

neighbour’s gas cylinder to explode. No one was hurt in the accident.

- A five month old female cat has been reported missing. It was last seen in Tai Tan Village on September 25. The cat is short haired with white and grey coat and blue eyes. If you spot the mentioned cat or have more information call 5960 0395.

- There have been 21 reports of snake sightings near Mok Tse Che and Tan Cheung. The increase in number of cases is due to the current season as snakes go into hibernation.

- There were two cases of disputes at

restaurants in Sai Kung town centre. No one was charged.

- There were two burglaries in Wong Chuk Wan

Village with one resulting in around $50,000 worth of valuables being stolen. The burglaries

happened during dinner time. The culprit is still unknown. Police have been distributing leaflets to raise awareness of recent burglaries and the importance of home security.

- A large scale jaywalking operation is underway with police stationed at pedestrian crossings outside the medical clinic on Man Nin Street and also on Po Tung Road. If pedestrians are caught crossing within 15m around crossing, a fine of up to $2,000 will be issued.

- There were a total of 286 traffic complaints in October.

-A total of 13 fallen tree have been reported.

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

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 23

local

shop front crackdown

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24 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

On the front burner

Eric Ho reports on how shop front extension penalties are affecting businesses in Sai Kung.

B

usinesses placing products outside their shop front is a common sighting in Sai Kung but it may become a thing of the past, as the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) crackdown on stores in Sai Kung.

Since September 24, a fixed penalty system against shop front extensions (SFE) has been in effect, and those found guilty without a license will now face a fine of $1,500, point deduction and a potential temporary shop closure.

Previously, shops caught red handed would need to go through a lengthy court process before being fined, with the average penalty being less than $600. The fixed penalty system for SFE has been introduced as a deterrent to prevent shops from obstructing public places. “The problem of shop front obstruction is very serious in Sai Kung town centre,” said Ng Sze-Fuk, Chairman of the Sai Kung District Community.

Some local shop owners believe the regulation should apply differently to Sai Kung, “On weekdays, [Sai Kung] streets aren’t that busy, how is it an obstacle to the public?” questions Vicky Chan, Managing Director of Chip In Fish

& Chips. “People who come to Sai Kung want to enjoy the sun in alfresco areas. Dog walkers want to sit outside as dogs are not allowed inside the restaurant. And shops want to get the attention of customers by displaying products outside the shop.”

Shop owners are particularly disgruntled at the lack of consultation before the strict enforcement began. “In the past two years, the police or the FEHD officer only gave verbal warning on shop extension but not consultation.” said Chan.

A government officer confirmed that a consultation was in fact launched across Hong Kong, but it seems not at a district-level. In a recent meeting between the District Council and Sai Kung residents, Ng Sze-Fuk acknowledges the issue, “Departments need to carry out their responsibilities and councillors should enhance consultation with the residents.”

Thanks to the community’s strong opposition to the new law, representatives of the related departments will temporarily suspend strict enforcement until sufficient communication and coordination has occurred.

It seems the problem stems

from a few years back when pharmacies were placing boxes of diapers and other goods at the shop front. “It was the trend and was generating huge amounts of turnover,” Chan explained. “The government also seem to want to close down the traditional wet markets for more ‘manageable’, ‘cleaner’ and ‘civilised’ alternatives.”

Chan is now in the process of drafting a proposal to the Sai Kung community, explaining the implications of the law on Sai Kung businesses. “Sai Kung needs the exception because it forms part of the unique characteristics of the community. We want shops to sign and support, to voice out to the local councillors and to the government.”

Before the fixed penalty system for SFE came into effect, Raymond Young Lap-moon, Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs, raised the possibility that the rules may be relaxed in areas where shop front extension boosted ‘local character’.

Whether Sai Kung falls into this category is yet to be determined.

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village focus

Tui Min Hoi

Eric Ho visits the village across the sea.

H

ead to the waterfront at the end of Sai Kung old town, look out across the water, past the numerous parked boats - and there you’ll find Tui Min Hoi, a quiet but pleasantly quirky village.

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

The path twists and turns down large boatyards and uniquely designed village houses, each different to its neighbour. Occasionally narrow back alleyways break off from the path, inviting you deeper into Tui Min Hoi. For a picturesque view, take the first turning on the right which heads up a hill. The halfway point provides a panoramic view over the boatyards and Sai Kung old town. Keep heading up and you’ll stumble into Kwun Mun Fishermen Village.

26 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

All the houses found in this section of Tui Min Hoi are government built due to the construction of High Island Reservoir. “My family and I were originally fishermen who lived on a boat docked in Kwun Mun Channel (now High Island Reservoir). Once the dam was built it meant we could no longer liver there”, says Leung Kam Sze, a long time resident of Kwun Mun Fishermen Village. “With the loss of our homes, all the fishermen who lived in the area were moved on land to this village - this is the first and only house I’ve ever lived in”, Leung turned 78 just a few months ago.

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

Throughout Tui Min Hoi, many of the houses have their own miniature gardens - fully utilising the available space given. Look a little closer

and you’ll begin to notice many objects around the village appear to have been handmade. Clothing lines strung with ring pulls are use to hold hangers in place as clothes dry, garden shelves hammered together using odd bits of metal, fishing nets converted into recycling bins, kitchen ladles made from a cleaned out coconut shells. “Most of us come from a fishing background, we’re used to making things. It helps us save money. It’s good for the environment and is also quite fun”, said Leung.

How to get to Tui Min Hoi • Take a taxi from Sai Kung Town, costs around $22.

• Take No.4 Minibus from Sai Kung Town, costs $3.3.

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

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 27

feature

Happy 100th birthday Tin Hau Temple!

Eric Ho takes a look back in time and reports on the celebrations ahead.

History Sai Kung’s Tin Hau Temple will be celebrating its 100th anniversary this month with six days of festivities starting from November 17 to 22.

The current Tin Hau Temple began life in 1916 when a group of merchants from the Sai Kung market came together to fund and build a new temple. At the time two temples already existed in Sai Kung: one which housed Goddess of the Sea, Tin Hau in its current location and another for the God of War, Kwan Tai which was situated near Sacred Heart Church in Tan Cheung. But the temples were located a distance away from one another, this made it inconvenient for people wishing to pray to both deities.

The merchants came up with the solution to move both deities to a single location. It was decided that Kwan Tai would move to the same location as Tin Hau, at the time this was by the waterfront and meant Tin Hau would continue to have a clear view of the sea.

A new bigger temple was built to accommodate both deities and thus gave

28 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

birth to the landmark we know and love today. Even during the Japanese occupation the temple came out largely unscathed.

Rumour has it that Sai Kung came under the watch of a well educated Japanese man who seldom caused havoc. Others say it may have been due to the resistance stationed in and around Sai Kung which kept the destruction to a minimal. Either way, the temple managed to survive a turbulent period of Hong Kong’s history.

“Tin Hau Temple has become an important Sai Kung landmark. People come in to Sai Kung from all over Hong Kong not only for the seafood and the geoparks but also for the temple”, said Li Fuk Hong, Chairman of the Sai Kung District Community Centre (SKDCC). One of the roles SKDCC are responsible for is looking after the temple and its activities, including the upcoming anniversary celebrations.

In recent years, Li has noticed an increase in the number of expats visiting the temple, “Many have a great understanding of our Chinese culture. But we are here if they need any explanation or guidance.”

The deities Tin Hau is the Goddess of the Sea, said to protect seafarers such as fishermen and sailors.

Tin Hau was originally a girl from a fishing village, but lost her life when trying to save her father and brother from drowning at sea. Due to the selfless act, she rose to heaven and became a Goddess. Hong Kong has a long history tied to the fishing community and the ocean - no wonder you can find Tin Hau temples all over the city.

Kwan Tai The God of War, known to be the symbol of loyalty and integrity. Kwan Tai is not a mythological deity, he was a real human who lived throughout the Han Dynasty. He was known to be a fearsome warrior who became a legend and later immortalised as a God. Kwan Tai is often worshipped by those in dangerous jobs such as the police, army and triads.

feature

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 29

feature

60 year old signs donated by worshippers after their wishes came true. One says, ‘calm waters, no waves of the sea’ - a metaphor for peace and harmony.

One of Tin Hau’s vessels. He is the all seeing god who helps Tin Hau watch over her worshippers.

Ribbons with the wishes of visitors.

People typically wish for good health, business to improve or luck in finding love.

Ribbons are free of charge.

Before burning offerings, worshippers strike the drum three times and the bell once - this lets Tin Hau know you are here to worship.

70 years old fortune sticks or Kau Cim as it is known in Cantonese. Each has a unique number correlating to a fortune.

Pick one up to learn yours.

30 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

feature Tin Hau statue.

Large red incense only burnt once a year on Tin Hau’s birthday.

Tin Hau’s second vessel, the all hearing god. Using his great listening powers, he listens and reports back to Tin Hau.

Donation box, all money donated will be handled by the Sai Kung District Community Centre and used to maintain the temple and organise events such as the upcoming anniversary celebrations.

Table to place offerings before they are burnt and sent up to the heavens.

Flower and fruit offerings brought in by worshippers. Typically worshippers bring in apples and orange bought from local shops.

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 31

feature

SKDCC in front of the temple in 1958

Birthday celebrations Day 1 - Nov 17 It all kicks off with an opening ceremony which begins at 1pm, expect a lively atmosphere with lion dancing and music ringing the streets of Sai Kung.

After, a Taoist has been invited to the temple to provide some words of self reflection.

Offerings will be made on this day to comfort the wandering spirits, it is believed that this will prevent the spirits from haunting people.

To wrap up the first day, a Chinese opera show will be held at the temporary bamboo theatre just outside the temple.

Lion dancing festivities

Day 2 - Nov 18 The second day will have two Chinese opera shows, one starting at 2pm and the second at 7.45pm.

Day 3 - Nov 19 At 10am, over 10 Taoists will be making prayers and blessings to the temple and the Sai Kung residents. Once the prayers are over, 100th anniversary souvenirs will be handed out to the public.

There will be a Chinese opera show to end the day, starting at 7.45pm.

Day 4 - Nov 20 A parade will start at 8.15am which sees Tin Hau and Kwan Tai statues being carried along the streets of Sai Kung. A portion of the parade will be conducted on water. Members of the public can watch from one of the 50 viewing boats floating alongside. “I believe this will be the biggest water parade throughout Hong Kong”, says Li. A banquet of Poon Choi for 500 guests will be held after the parade. Poon Choi is a traditional Chinese dish eaten during celebratory events. A variety of ingredients in placed in a large bowl or ‘poon’ and stewed until ready to be served.

Both the boat section of the parade and the Poon Choi will require registration, pop into Tin Hau temple for more details.

Day 5 - Nov 21 Cantonese opera, 7.45pm Day 6 - Nov 22 Chinese opera concert, featuring Hau Kit Yi and her apprentices.

5-10pm.

32 WWW.SAIKUNG.COM |

Chinese opera show

nts celebratin Sai Kung reside oi Ch with Poon

g

Burning incenses

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 33

eating

Rise and shine

Where to go for breakfast in the Kungdom.

Ali Oli Bakery European style bakery, Ali Oli, in the Square, offers an all-day breakfast menu with hearty options including a full English breakfast ($98), eggs rancheros ($98) and bacon or sausage and egg breakfast roll ($68). Alternatively, if you’re after something lighter, the bakery offers a spread of pastries, fresh sandwiches and homemade muesli or granola ($68).

All breakfasts come with tea or coffee. Glutenfree, vegan and organic options available.

From 8am.

Y SUNDA ROAST

11 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, 2792 2655, www.alioli.com.hk

Steamers For late risers, Steamers is the place to go.

Although the menu says breakfast is served from 9am till 12pm, most breakfast items can still be ordered after 12pm. Tuck into a butty ($70) or full English brekkie ($118) which comes in a lighter version with one egg and one sausage instead of two ($108). For a healthier start to the day, the salmon spinach brekkie ($128) is also a popular choice. Plus, if you’re longing for a classic roast, pop into Steamers on Sunday, where you can

choose from beef, chicken or lamb roast, which comes with broccoli, carrots, peas, french beans, roast potatoes, pudding and gravy ($168).

Some breakfast items come with toast and tea or coffee. Upgrade to a latte or cappuccino for $5.

66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991, www.steamerssaikung.com

’ KIDS GS VIN R E S

Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery Long queues form regularly outside this Sai Kung cafe thanks to its tasty, fresh-out-ofthe-oven local treats like pineapple buns and egg tarts. Its breakfast menu is reasonably priced, you’ll be able to find homestyle oats ($26), macaroni with sausage ($29), or the lot - sausage, ham, luncheon meat, fried egg with instant noodles ($34). All breakfast meals come with a butter bun and selected hot beverages.

From 7am till 11am, Monday to Saturday.

G/F, 6-7 Kam Po Court, 2 Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung, 2792 3861.

Little Cove Espresso With plenty of space indoors and outdoor seating, the Australian-inspired cafe dishes up simple, healthy breakfast dishes. Located in the old town, Little Cove Espresso has an allday menu which features organic scrambled eggs on sourdough rye bread ($95), smashed avocado ($68 on sourdough rye bread; $78 on a bagel) and egg and bacon ciabatta ($88).

To mix things up, Little Cove Espresso also

34 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

whizzes up smoothie bowls. Try the Cacao Paradise, which is a mix of cacao, banana and coconut milk topped with coconut, cacao nibs and strawberries ($60). Kids have a choice of scrambled eggs ($55) and cheese toastie ($40).

34 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, 9474 0781, www.facebook.com/littlecoveespresso

LOC TRE AL ATS

eating Classified Classified serves an egg-cellent breakfast menu which features eggs benedict ($100), eggs royale ($110) and egg white frittata which comes with smoked salmon, bell peppers and tomato sauce ($90). Other options include avocado toast with tomato ($53), french toast with banana, hazelnuts and syrup ($58) and the Classified granola ($51).

Wash it down with a coffee or tea or pick up a juice or smoothie if you’re on the go.

Available from 8-11.30am.

5 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, 2529 3454, www.classifiedfood.com

Jaspas You won’t be left hungry with the breakfast portions at Jaspas. The restaurant serves up all-time favourite breakfast dishes including the Jaspas B.E.S.T which comes with all your favourite sides - bacon, eggs, sausage, hash brown and tomato ($120), benedicts like no other with a choice of ham or smoked salmon ($120) and the Jaspas omelet which is filled with

up to three fillings of your choice ($120). The little ones don’t miss out either, Jaspas offers a kids serving of blueberry filled pancakes with maple syrup and ice cream ($55). Most breakfast items comes with coffee, juice and toast. From 8am.

G/F, 13 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, 2792 6388.

Wo Kee Restaurant For a no fuss, no frills breakfast, head to Wo Kee in Hoi Pong Square. You’ll find oatmeal ($29), ham or sausage with macaroni in soup ($32) and deep fried fish fillet ($35). Most breakfast items comes with fried egg, toast and coffee or tea (extra $3 for cold drinks). There are also sandwich combos and toasts to choose from.

Available 7 days from 6.30am till 11.30am.

9-10 Kam Po Court, Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung, 2792 0636.

Hong Kong’s best value wine store Orders Tel: 2433 9929 | www.winerack.com.hk

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$70 W. Cape South Africa

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$75 Veneto, Italy

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MDLC Crianza, Rioja

$90 Rioja, Spain Sai Kung Shop

Shop 5, Kam Po Court, Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung (near Casa) T 2253 6929

ng al Sai Ku rmin Bus Te

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eleven

Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square Chinese Restaurants

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Sai Kung Bakery

$105 Piedmont, Italy

MadFish ‘GT’ Chardonnay

$115 Margaret River. AUS

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Free home delivery on any mix of 6 Bottles - Shop 5, Kam Po Court, Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 35

eating

Nibbles Takka Fusion opens in the Square Takka Fusion opens their new branch in Sai Kung Square, taking over the space of Union Jacks which closed down earlier this year.

Their original restaurant located on Fuk Man Road has now closed down. The new space adopts a more modern interior with the a la carte menu remaining largely the same including a range of sushi rolls, tempura and salad. Lunch sets available. takkafusion.wix.com/home

18 Grams Alley closes Speciality coffee chain, 18 Grams Alley closes its Sai Kung location. Named after its location, in an alley on Fuk Man Road, the coffee chain was in operation for three years. There are seven outlets around Hong Kong, including Tsim Sha Tsui and Sheung Wan. The space is now up for rent. www.18grams.com/alley

options include crispy egg rolls with preserved onion and young ginger mousse, baked long jing pastry with mandarin peel, red bean and black bean glutinous rice cake.

4/F, Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Sha Tin, 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, 3723 1234

Farewell Hebe One O One Long established and much loved restaurant Hebe One O One has closed and is under renovation. The team will be back later this year with a new restaurant opening, a new name, dining concept and interior. Keep your eyes peeled - details to come. 112 Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung, 2335 5515, www.hebe101.com Warm up at Sha Tin 18 Chef Ngai Hong Kin uses seasonal ingredients to create autumnal and winter dishes. Dishes include marinated Chinese salsify, a root vegetable, with seaweed, minced ginger and spring onion and braised crab meat, seaweed and pumpkin. For those with a sweet tooth, inspired by local savoury dishes, dessert

Shiso and miso rice balls Jacqueline Faulkner prepares a healthy snack with a Japanese twist.

T

hree years ago we cultivated our first shiso bushes and they self seeded this year giving us a fantastic fragrant smelling harvest that has so many uses. They are now scattered widely across the garden, proudly displaying their green and purple heart-shaped leaves.

Shiso is part of the mint family, commonly found across Asia but most popularly known for its use in Japanese cooking. The leaves are loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic components, so it’s great for both your skin and immune system.

Their leaves can be used for tempura, to flavour broths or turn them into a soothing tea.

We chose a simple combination of rice and miso to make a satisfying snack. For the best taste eat fresh while it’s still steaming hot.

Ingredients • 1 small bowlful white rice • 1/2 tablespoon Miso paste • Fresh shiso leaves • Olive or a nut oil for frying

36 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

Method • Take a small pinch of steaming rice and shape it into a ball.

• Paint or dab the miso onto the rice ball, smearing it evenly.

• Wrap the shiso leaves around the rice ball, just like you would usually do with nori seaweed.

• Let the rice naturally steam the shiso leaf or pan fry it with a tiny amount of oil.

Jacqueline Faulkner is Community Manager at Hong Kong Permaclub which aims to improve and promote environmental sustainability, clean food and a healthy sustainable lifestyle in Hong Kong. For more information visit www.facebook.com/permaclub or email: info@permaclub.org

RECIPE of the MONTH

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 37

education

Mind your language Language classes for kids. By Annie Wong.

Mandarin is taught through hands on activities at Jumpstart Mandarin.

Jumpstart Mandarin Learning Centre Mandarin is taught through hands on, taskbased activities in small groups at Jumpstart Mandarin. Younger children learn through songs and storytelling which progresses to building vocabulary, listening, speaking, reading and writing as children get older. Sessions are tailored according to age and level, starting at one and a half to 11 years old. Classes are $220 per one hour lesson and private tutoring is $450 per hour.

2/F, 9 Tak Lung Back Street, Sai Kung, 2791 4838, www.jumpstartmandarin.com Sai Kung English Sai Kung English is a family-run tuition centre, established in 2011. Apart of Sai Kung Tutors, the centre focuses on English tuition.

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The centre runs private and group English classes to children of any age. Classes aim to provide solid building blocks to the language and aim to focus on areas in need of development. Private tuition starts at $400 per hour, and $300 for group classes.

Holiday workshops allow children to build on their grammar, reading, writing skills through interactive activities.

1/F, 10 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, www.facebook.com/SaiKungEnglish HK Kidz Education Centre A well established, not-for-profit organisation managed by Hong Kong Institute of Languages.

The centre offers children from as young as 12 months to 12 years old immersive French, German, Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese and

English classes to develop core language skills.

Classes are interactive and utilises a hands-on approach. The centre also provides culture and enrichment programmes in the five languages to expand their creative and language skills.

Classes run seven days a week and are available after regular school hours. Private lessons start at $420 and group lessons start at $192.

Three branches across Hong Kong including Sha Kok Mei Village Sai Kung, 2877 6160, www.hkkidz.com Learning Horizon Sai Kung Apart of Music Horizon and situated next door, Learning Horizon Sai Kung runs Japanese and Korean classes on Saturday and Sunday and Mandarin workshops throughout the week for

education children and teens. Classes are limited to four students per class and are taught by native speaking teachers using their own materials.

Other language classes include English, French and Chinese. Classes start from $200 per class, depending on language but need to be paid monthly.

No.188A, Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2791 7770, music-saikung.com Woodland Pre-School Sai Kung The Sai Kung pre-school runs both English and bilingual streams for children aged three and up. Students will be able to pick up speaking and writing skills through creative school activities in preparation for school. On top of the pre-school programme, Woodland PreSchool also offers a full immersion Mandarin programme, Mandarin Made Easy, which aims to develop their listening and speaking skills, as well as introducing them to Chinese characters. Courses run throughout the year and start at $2,250 for nine sessions.

Shop D, G/F, Marina Cove Shopping Centre, Sai Kung, 2813 0290, www.woodlandschools.com Sai Kung Tutors Established in 2010 by Sean Whaley, Sai Kung Tutors provides tuition for a range of subjects, including Mandarin, Cantonese and French.

Classes prepare primary, secondary and senior students on IB diploma and other school examinations. Classes are primarily one-onone and held at the student’s home but small group lessons are held at the centre. Classes start at $500 per hour. Rates vary according to language and age groups.

1/F, 10 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 5321 4400, saikungtutors.com

Woodland Pre-School offers English and bilingual streams.

Kids learning at Woodland Pre-School.

Brush up on your language skills with Sai Kung Tutors.

Learn Mandarin with Sai Kung Tutors.

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 39

education Easy English for Kids With centres in Sai Kung and Ma On Shan, Easy English for Kids offer English and Mandarin classes for children in K1 to P6. Taught by native speaking teachers, children learn phonics, reading, reading and writing through the use of play time, circle time, arts and crafts and musical instruments. The programmes are designed to increase the student’s imagination and social skills through these activities. Playgroups are limited to seven children per class and starts at $200, private tuition starts at $275 per class.

28F, Sai Keng Village, Sai Sha Road, Sai Kung, 3487 3053, eek.com.hk

Play time with Easy English for Kids.

Mandarin tuition with Yifan Mandarin.

Yifan Mandarin Yifan Mandarin specialises in teaching Mandarin at their three locations, including Sai Kung.

Suitable for children aged three years to eight years old, Mandarin for Munchkins is a more structured, content and instructionbased programme aimed to develop a level of conversational mandarin. Mandarin for Teens, a programme that prepare teenagers for IGCSE, IB, AP Mandarin exams in support for extra study on the language on top of school studies. Classes are $190-$250 per session.

1/F & Roof, 37 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, 2486 9012, www.yifan-mandarin.com.hk Yifan Mandarin has three locations across Hong Kong.

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sponsored column

The school interview The school admissions process varies from one school to another, but one requirement is universal: the interview. Here’s what to expect.

Reception to Year 2 First stage: Students are observed in small groups (of six to eight) on their interaction and speaking skills, before a teacher takes each aside for a one-to-one interview. This often includes oral comprehension, drawing and discussing a picture, counting, naming animals, shapes and colours, etc.

Second stage: Students who make the shortlist may be invited back for a second interview.

Final stage: Prospective students and their parents may be invited to meet the Admissions Director or Principal.

Year 3 to 6 Students must typically complete a written or online assessment in verbal, non-verbal, spatial ability, English reading and comprehension.

Some schools use Cognitive Abilities Tests (CAT), to test general intelligence in three different areas: verbal, quantitative and nonverbal reasoning.

Year 7 First stage: Assessments are typically conducted over two to three hours, and include tests in English (reading & writing), Mathematics, non-verbal and verbal reasoning. Some schools in Hong Kong use CATs; American-based schools often use the ISEE (Independent School Entrance Examination). Bilingual schools often also test Chinese skills (writing and speaking).

Second stage: Those who pass the first stage may be invited for an interview in English with the Head of School.

Preparing for the Interview • Create realistic targets. Temper ambition to get into the most sought-after schools with a rational perspective of how your child will cope with the assessments.

Ensure that all subjects – for instance, English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning – are afforded attention, but proportion this according to relative strengths and weaknesses.

• Practice timed mock tests well in advance of the assessment date.

• Prepare some questions in the week leading up to the interview.

• Get your child to meet and interact with new people, so that they feel comfortable doing it.

• Decrease subject learning and increase revision and mock tests in the run up to the exam.

ITS Education Asia provides an education consulting service that works with families and employers to find the right schools for individual children in Hong Kong, from nursery to secondary schools. ITS also offers research, policy and advisory services for corporations. For more details, contact es@itseducation.asia, 3188 3940 or www.itseducation.asia.

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 41

sports

Anchors aweigh

Annie Wong checks out this year’s 24 Hour Charity Dinghy Race at Hebe Haven Yacht Club.

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sports

N

ow in its 14th year and having raised over $10 million since its inception, the 24 Hour Charity Dinghy Race is back this month. Entrants will set sail from Hebe Haven Yacht Club at 2pm on November 5 until 2pm the following day. As each boat fits only two people at one time, teams are required to rotate crew members throughout the 24 hours. Sailors will steer the boat within a small marked area of the club in Pak Sha Wan bay, just in front of Hebe Haven Yacht Club. The course is approximately 1 nautical mile (1.85km) in length.

One of four 24 hour race events worldwide, the annual race attracts over 2,000 visitors and sees teams from all over Hong Kong take part.

The race is welcome to all - participants must be seven years or older - from schools, yacht clubs, and of any experience level. Although the race is based on laps, finish times are aggregated to produce a winner. The Para Sailing Team clinched the title at least year's race, followed by KGV-WAYFERER and Hebe Dragons PICO 02.

From 12pm on November 5, those on dry land will be able to groove to live music, try their hand at art jamming and printing workshops with plenty of entertainment for children and teens.

This year’s race will also feature a mini ‘Race Village’, with around 25 stalls including craft beer, food, swimwear, jewellery and sailing gear.

Special guest and youngest person to sail around the world single handedly, Laura Dekker will be this year's special guest. Dekker will be talking at the club on November 2, as well as a speaker dinner on November 4 at Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club.

All donations will be donated to the several children's charities in Hong Kong including Children’s Cancer Foundation and Sailability.

For more information, visit www.hebehaven24hour.com

The Hebe Dragons at last year's event.

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outdoors

Hike to it

As the weather cools down, it is the best time to get out and enjoy Hong Kong’s vast array of hiking routes. By Shreena Patel.

Pak Tam Chung to Long Ke Wan Also known as Section 1 of the MacLehose Trail. The route the scenic begins at Pak Tam Chung and route continues along Sai Kung Man Yee Road, skirting the south side of High Island Reservoir in Sai Kung East Country Park. Built in the late 1970s, following severe water shortages in the previous decade, the reservoir was created by damming the two ends of a narrow sea channel between High Island and the mainland, submerging half a dozen villages in the process and requiring four hundred Hakka villagers to relocate.

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The reservoir holds over 270 million cubic metres of water - 40 times the capacity of Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir.

At just under 11km, Section 1 takes around three hours. The beginning of the trail is mostly flat and the few climbs are gradual.

Walk across the two dams and make the short climb over to lovely Long Ke Wan beach for a swim. Notice the unusual hexagonal rock formations nearby, formed of rhyolite, a fine grained volcanic rock formed when lava cools rapidly.

Section 2 goes through the north half of Sai Kung East Country Park, to its border

along the Pak Tam Road. From Long Ke, make the steep ascent to Sai Wan Shan. Enjoy fantastic views over the coastline - and north towards Sharp Peak. The trail drops down to Sai Wan, then follows the beaches to Ham Tin, turning inland over the coastal hills. It ends at Pak Tam Au. Section 1 starts at Pak Tam Chung. Take bus 94 or 96R (or minibus 7 or 9) from Sai Kung Town and get off at the Pak Tam Chung Terminus, next to the Pak Tam Chung Barrier Gate. The starting point is by the junction of Pak Tam Road and Man Yee Road.

outdoors

Pat Sin Leng Deep in the New Territories lies Pat Sin Leng (“the Eight Fairies”), one for the a range of eight peaks set amidst explorers emerald lakes. Each peak is named after one of the eight fairies in Chinese mythology. The highest peak is Shun Yeung Fung (591m), whose summit offers a panorama of the Northeastern landscape.

Experienced hikers may enjoy Stage 9

and Stage 10 of the Wilson Trail, which take you along the ridges of Wong Leng, Lai Pek Shan and Pat Sin Leng. The trail is difficult in terms of elevation and distance, but you’ll enjoy spectacular views of rolling green hills against the backdrop of Plover Cove Reservoir. On a clear day, you can see Shenzhen in the distance.

For something less strenuous, try the 4.4km (2.5 hours) trail from Tai Mei Tuk to Bride’s Pool.

Numbered signboards (from 1 to 22) will help

you to navigate and the two waterfalls at Bride’s Pool are a great way to end the walk - although the place gets busy at weekends.

Shing Mun Redoubt The Gin Drinkers Line (named after Gin Drinkers Bay, now part of Kwai historical hike Fong) was a 13-mile “Oriental Maginot Line” of pillboxes, lookout positions and artillery observation posts that snaked through difficult terrain north of Kowloon. The lynch pin was the Shing Mun Redoubt, which comprises an intricate tunnel network linking pillboxes, bunkers, a Command Post and artillery. The tunnels are named after famous London streets, such as Shaftesbury Avenue, Piccadilly and Charing Cross.

The bullet-scarred remnants of these fortifications being reclaimed by the forest are all that remain of a battle that was over almost before it started.

To get there, take a taxi (there are car parks if you plan a round trip) to the start of Stage 6 of the MacLehose Trail on Tai Po Road, and stroll alongside the Kowloon Reservoirs. You’ll soon become aware of a

modern invader – hordes of rhesus macaques.

The walk to the Shing Mun Redoubt is an easy 4.6 km (90 minutes). Follow the signs for the MacLehose Trail (not the Wilson Trail). If you’re doing a return trip, follow the “M” signs

one way, and “W” the other. This stage finishes at Shing Mun Reservoir, where you can picnic.

To leave, head to the west of the reservoir and connect with Shing Mun Road to catch a cab.

Take the MTR to Tai Po Market MTR Station.

Section 9 starts on the summit of Cloudy Hill to get there, take a taxi from the station to Tai Po Tau Drive and walk. Alternatively, to get to Tai Mei Tuk, catch green minibus 20C from the station.

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outdoors

Ng Tung Chai waterfalls A stone’s throw from the high rises of Tai Po, the Ng Tung escape the Chai waterfalls are one of Hong crowds Kong’s best-kept secrets. Climb into a steep-sided world enveloped in dense rainforest and peppered with flowing cascades.

Despite the area’s accessibility, it offers an escape from the crowds at weekends. During the week, you’re likely to have this tropical wonderland all to yourself.

Allow four to five hours for the moderately

strenuous 6km walk to the three main falls, including swimming time.

Catch a taxi or bus 64K from Tai Wo MTR Station (Exit A) to Ng Tung Chai village, then follow the road uphill to the trailhead.

Pass by Man Tak Monastery and head up the northern slopes of Tai Mo Shan – Hong Kong’s highest peak. Take a dip at the three sets of waterfalls and take it easy knowing it’s only a 45-minute walk from the Bottoms Falls to Lam Kam Road to grab a bus.

Mountain climbers Races and team hiking challenges starting this month.

NOV 13 Pink 5K Run: Organised by Hong Kong Hereditary Breast Cancer Family Registry, the race consists of uphills and downhill paths, stairs and narrow steps. Don your best pink gear for the event. Starts at 10.30am. www.pinkheels.hk NOV 18-20 Oxfam Trailwalker: The most famous event of the year will see over 5000 walkers tackle the rugged 100km MacLehose Trail from Sai Kung to Yuen Long. www.oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk NOV 26 Garmin 10K: 10km starting in Wu Kai Sha and finishing in Ma On Shan Promenade

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with male and female categories. www.garminrace.com DEC 4 MSIG Lantau 50: 16, 27, 54km run or hike starting in Man Tung Road Park in Tung Chung. www.actionasiaevents.com DEC 10-11 The North Face 100 Hong Kong 2016: A 50 or 100km race in Tai Mei Tuk, crossing over to Plover Cove Reservoir, Pat Sin Leng Nature Trail and Nam Chung Country Trail. www.thenorthface100.com

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travel

Nihiwatu The best hotel IN THE WORLD? Tom Hilditch finds out.

OK, luxury travel bugs, your first question is... At the Nihiwatu Resort guests have their own: a) Swimming pool b) Butler c) Horse Wrong! The astonishing answer is: All of the above.

Perhaps this is why, earlier in 2016, Conde Nast proclaimed the Nihiwatu Resort, on the Indonesian island of Sumba, to be the best hotel IN THE WORLD. The capitals are mine. It’s such a bold claim, this is the only way I can write it. And, I am ashamed to say, the only way I can say it.

“Where are you going for your holidays?” ask friends and colleagues, as I clatter around the office with my recently purchased Panama hat, Havaianas and waterproof copy of the

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Bhagavad Gita. “Oh, nowhere special” I reply, “just the best hotel IN THE WORLD”.

OK, travel bugs. Next question: The Nihiwatu Resort is on the Island of Sumba, about an hour’s plane ride from Bali. But where on Sumba? Is it: a) On a private, completely unspoilt, 2.5 kilometer beach. b) On a coastal mountain top with views of some of the best surfing breaks in the world. c) In a 567 acre nature reserve that incorporates several local villages, where the tribes people follow ancient rituals, the men carry long knives and the women are not getting married unless you tip them at least 20 buffaloes.

Answer: Yup. All of the above.

The resort’s 32 luxury villas sit “on the edge of wilderness”. All with stunning views

and absolute privacy. “Basically, Sumba is like Bali 400 years ago,” says Christopher Burch, the fashion entrepreneur who acquired Nihiwatu a few years ago and has transformed Nihiwatu from a surfer’s retreat into a world-class luxury hideaway. “This resort is profoundly connected to nature.”

Our villa is stunning. Daytime activities include swimming, snorkeling, scuba, surfing, paddle boarding, the aforementioned horseriding, visiting local villages, making chocolate bars in the “Chocolate Factory”, releasing baby turtles back to the wild, yoga, spa safari’s, and my son Harry’s favourite activity of throwing stones at the sea. At night, we soak together in the gigantic outdoor bathtub, dine on locally caught fish and pass out among soft sheets in a pure white, mosquito netted, bubble.

travel

Getting there Fly to Bali, then one hour’s flight to Sumba, then two hours by luxury SUV. (The resort will arrange all this.)

• 28 villas, in 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 room configurations.

• 90% of the workforce is local Sumbanese • 300+ staff • Meals, drinks, laundry are included.

No bills!

• Babysitting services. www.nihiwatu.com

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health

“I’m an expat mum and an alcoholic.”

Get to a meeting…

Hong Kong AA has over 40 English-language meetings each week. If you have a desire to stop drinking you are welcome at all meetings. Those unsure if they are alcoholic or wishing to find out more on behalf of a friend or family member, should visit an open meeting. Here’s the two most central locations.

Mid-levels

12 Borrett Road, Mid-levels, Hong Kong Island.

Getting there: Go to Central or Admiralty MTR and then take a 10 minute taxi ride up the hill to Borrett Road (in Cantonese Bollo Dough.)

Top tip: Meetings are held every night at 6.30pm.

Monday 6.30pm is a “beginner’s meeting” ideal for non-alcoholics interested in learning more about the programme for themselves or someone else. Get there a few minutes early and say hello to the meeting secretary. And don’t worry - everyone was nervous attending their first meeting.

Central

From long lunches to AA - one woman tells her tale.

From the outside, it looked like I had it all. But inside I was empty. My life

alcohol. In the evenings, I’d drink more either at home or at a dinner party.

was unravelling and I didn’t understand why.

Alcoholics Anonymous saved me.

I never thought I was an alcoholic.

I came to Hong Kong as a trailing spouse. I’d had a great career, but when

There was always someone else in the group who drank more than me. We used to laugh about our drinking. I never worried.

my husband got a job in Hong Kong I quit and came with him, and we started to raise a family.

My life seemed idyllic: Big house, domestic helpers, driver, long lunches with other mums, afternoons at the pool. But, without a career to define who I was, I was struggling.

No one knew I was alcoholic. I didn’t know I was an alcoholic. My drinking wasn’t out of control. But it got very, very frequent. I gravitated towards other women who were like me. It was civilized. We didn’t go to Lan Kwai Fong. It was more afternoons in private clubs nice wines, the long lunch scene.

Drinking is so easy in Hong Kong.

You have a driver, you have Uber, to get you home. You have helpers to get the kids off to school in the morning. At no time are your children being neglected while you drink

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The pain began when my son started primary school. Several friends had left for new posts abroad and I started to feel more and more anxiety. I hated going to my son’s school.

He would be playing a sport after school and I hated being there. I was struggling to get through the day. Waiting for 5pm.

I used to start drinking at 5pm. If I was drinking on my own I would last four hours.

5pm would take me through to 9pm.

My husband didn’t know. He travels a lot and is a normal drinker. I looked like I had my shit together but I didn’t.

The biggest thing is the loneliness.

I needed a drink to be social. But drinking doesn’t solve insecurity. It allows you to avoid dealing with it. My anxiety got worse. I

St Joseph’s Church Room B, 37 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong Island.

Getting there: 10 minutes walk from Central/ Admiralty MTR stations – just a little further up the hill, past The Peak tram and on the opposite side of the road to the US Consulate. The meeting room is at the rear of the church.

Background: Daily hour long meetings, Monday to Friday, at 7.45am and 1pm.

Top tip: There is a beginner’s meeting each Monday at 7.45am, open to those wishing to just learn more about recovery. (Contact Matt 9105 9202). A “Women Only” meeting is held every Monday at 1pm to 2pm for women who want to stop drinking.

There are also regular meetings in Sai Ying Pun, Wan Chai, Yuen Long, Stanley, Discovery Bay, Tung Chung, and Lamma Island. An LGBT meeting is held at Borrett Road, 11.30am Saturday morning.

For more information visit www.aa-hk.org

health

stopped feeling good. I just felt sick. But I still didn’t know I had a problem...

I thought I can’t possibly be an alcoholic. I had stopped drinking for a year when I was pregnant. And I occasionally gave up for a few days at a time.

I’ve never seen anyone drink themselves smart, happy or successful.

It was like someone pulling a string really, really slowly. My life was starting to unravel. I wasn’t the person I used to be. I found it hard to make decisions.

I procrastinated. Lost confidence. Became more self conscious. I was unravelling. The ability to experience joy and happiness was leaving me.

There was no disaster moment. It was the small subtle things. The number of hours in the day when I was effective - when I was not drunk or hungover - got shorter.

I started to miss important events. Let my children down.

There were episodes. For example, my birthday. I was smashed. I turned up early.

Got into a bottle. Had a row with my husband.

I was the drunk that I hated to see when I was young. I was slowly losing respect for myself.

I contemplated suicide. I sat there in the shower. I wanted to end it all and I didn’t know how to escape the downward spiral.

And I still didn’t know it was the drinking.

I had expected a bunch of hopeless drunks. But these women were successful, high achievers. And they were happy and connected to the world. I saw everything I wanted to be in these women. I wanted what they had.

I was really cynical. I expected that I

My doctor told me to quit drinking for 30 days. I changed doctor.

would have to give some sort of commitment or contract. But it wasn’t like that at all. It was just “don’t drink today”. They all gave me their phone numbers. I instantly had a support network of women around me.

I had looked at the AA website

Alcoholism is a disease. Once I knew

(www.aa-hk.org) a few times. I had called the number a few times. But I did not think I was an alcoholic. Finally I thought, maybe I can just go and take a look. Maybe they could teach me to control my drinking.

that I could begin to heal.

The first time I went to AA I was so nervous. I went to the Monday women’s lunch meeting at St Joseph’s. I got there early and was ready to run out when a woman who was setting out the chairs said hello and welcomed me. She explained anonymity was at the forefront of Alcoholics Anonymous. I could join the meeting without having to worry about anyone knowing

Sitting in that meeting was a revelation. The women told me what it was like for them. They honestly told me. I identified with their stories. It was the first time in my life that I was with a group that felt the same way I did.

The people in AA are incredible.

They have turned their lives around. I couldn’t talk to a counsellor about my problems. But these women understood me. It’s an incredibly supportive group of people.

So today, the outside is still the same. But inside, everything is different. It happened slowly. I slowly got to build the life I want. My relationship with my husband and family is great. I do so much more. My days are really full now. I feel useful. I feel awake. I feel alive. I’m growing again. I respect myself again.

I sponsor women. Women selflessly showed me their program of recovery. Now, when a woman comes into the room I can show her how I got sober. And I do that through sponsoring.

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pets

ASK...

DR.ANDERS

Rooftop rescue

Thomas with his new family.

How one phonecall saved the life of Thomas the dog.

Two years ago amidst a downpour, a soaking wet and emaciated mongrel named Thomas was locked on a coverless rooftop of a village house in Yuen Long. He was suffering from serious skin diseases, open and infected wounds and critical hunger when rescued

by SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty against Animals) inspectors.

His life was spared thanks to a neighbour who spoke up and reported to the SPCA. Upon medical examination, it was believed that the two double-palmsized wounds on his back had been caused by burning or corrosive liquid. The owner, who had gravely abused him, was charged and sentenced to two months of imprisonment and a $3,000 fine.

Following months of medical treatment, behavioural training and rehabilitation at the SPCA, Thomas regained his strength.

Whenever volunteer dog walkers took him for a park run, his sunny personality shone through and he quickly learnt to socialise with other animals.

For a long time, his paw prints were without a pet owner’s footprints alongside them. But for a dog who had endured lengthy abuse, his trust in humans remained strong and he longed for a home.

Finally last January, a family decided to give Thomas a forever home. They were hoping to adopt a puppy at first but changed their mind after receiving advice from the SPCA staff that mature dogs like Thomas are easier to handle for firsttime pet owners.

Even as new pet owners, they are compassionate and understand that thunderstorms scare Thomas due to his past.

They nurture his love for the outdoors and take him to a grassy park each week. Now Thomas is happily settled in his new home.

In the end, love triumphs all.

a es c sp fil e s ca

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If you suspect an animal is in distress and might need assistance, call the SPCA hotline on 2711 1000.

Pets Central veterinarian Dr. Anders Kulhavy answers your questions.

Q: “We have a dog and are about to have a baby. How can we prepare her for the baby’s arrival?”

- Anna, Repulse Bay A: Dogs tend to adjust to a new baby fairly well. I think they sense it is a new family member and accept them for the most part.

One obvious thing is to create a barrier when necessary. Babies and kids tend to make a mess and dogs tend to try and eat messes.

Dogs can get sick from eating new foods and can ingest small things that can potentially get stuck in their stomach. Dog gates, cages, and separate rooms are sometimes necessary.

The new baby will take away lots of attention from your dog. To ease this transition, make sure and set aside time to spend with your pets without the baby (like going for a walk). Buy some new toys or treats so they associate the change as a positive thing. The initial introduction should be closely supervised to make sure everything is safe for the baby. If your pet begins acting out (such as urinating unappropriately, hiding, not eating) then it may be worth consulting with your veterinarian to see if anxiety medication is indicated. There are also pheromone sprays and diffusers which can help calm down your pets.

Got a question for Dr. Kulhavy?

Email editorial@fastmedia.com.hk

Walkies

With Janine Canham, Clearwater Bay resident and member of ANTS running group.

greens

Pedestrianise Hong Kong Paul Zimmerman questions how Hong Kong can become a more walkable city.

Janine Canham with her twin boys, Josh and Sam and dogs, Lola and Jinx at Tai Hang Tun.

Q: How many dogs do you have and what are their names?

We have two dogs. A chocolate brown Labrador called Lola and a rescue dog who is part Collie and part Terrier called Jinx.

Q: How did they come into your family?

We got Lola from a breeder in Sydney. Dr David Gething recommended a Labrador as they are bred for their temperament and are very safe around children. Once my boys were older, we adopted a rescue dog that had been abandoned in a gutter who turned out to be a lovable gentle creature and is great around children and other dogs.

Q: Favourite dog walk in Sai Kung and why?

Our favourite walk is to hike up over Tai Hang Tun at the end of Clearwater Bay Road, all the way down to the stables and back. Tai Hang Tun is sometimes referred to as ‘Kite Park Hill’ as locals fly kites around the area.

To get to Tai Hang Tun, drive along Clearwater Bay Road past Sheung Sze Wan Road on your left, then go straight across the mini roundabout.

Travel straight down the very end of that road and you’ll reach the entrance to the Clearwater Bay Country Park, turn left and there are steps leading up to a very steep hill. We like to walk over the Peninsula and down to the Equestrian Centre. The walk is very hilly. Once you reach the top, you’ll be able to see beautiful views. The ocean views are stunning, the dogs love scrambling in and out of the bushes and we all get a really good workout.

It’s an arduous walk as it is a steep hill. My 12 year old boys can do it with me in a little over an hour in a round trip when we jog or walk it.

Q: Best place for dog products and accessories?

I order most of my dog food and other accessories online from vetopia. com.hk. It was set up by David and Trilby Gething from Creature Comforts so they also give you advice on which products to choose for your pets.

Q: Who looks after your dogs when you’re away from Hong Kong?

Our helper Nelia, she loves them. She takes them to Sheung Sze Wan Beach.

She chats to her friends while the dogs chase each other up and down the beach and they get a really good run and a swim.

I

s Hong Kong walkable? Ask Government officials and they will immediately highlight how many people walk every day to get to public transport, shops or schools. Moreover the greater majority of people in Hong Kong can access shops and transport within 400 meters of their home. With this excellent access to whatever one needs, car ownership is very low. But does accessibility equate walkability? Does the fact that many people make walking trips mean that the city is walkable? These questions dominated the talk at Walk21, an international conference on how to improve walkability held last month in Hong Kong. Different countries face different issues - access to shops, schools and work without the use of a private car or increasing the amount of road space given to pedestrians instead of vehicles, to pedestrianise central services and shopping districts. Hong Kong faces a myriad of challenges. Our core urban areas are dense – both land use and road use is intense, including overcrowding of pavements during peak hours.

To cope we have a tunnel or footbridge for every 500 meters of road length, resulting in forced detours and level changes which makes our city walkable for the fit and able but not necessarily for the elderly and those with disabilities. In some districts secondary pedestrian networks are “growing” below and above ground – either organically or planned. Although the walks can be spectacular for some routes – for example from Central to Aberdeen – most people don’t stray far from the public transport. Crowding, pollution, intermittent footpaths; the lack of crossings, shade and seating, and the need for making our city more accessible will need to be addressed by our city planners to get people to walk further and longer before opting for transport.

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

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distribution

where to find us

Sai Kung Magazine continues to extend its reach in the community, here is the latest in distribution news.

30,000 readers. 10,000 copies.

SAI KUNG PENINSULA

Shatin

Sai Kung Town Hebe Haven Marina Cove KOWLOON Silverstrand Tseung Kwan O Clearwater Bay

HONG KONG ISLAND

Restaurants, Bars and Cafes -

AJ’s Sri Lankan Restaurant Ali Oli Bakery Bacco Big Fish Butcher King CC Café Casa Cava Chip In Classified Colour Brown Fiesta Fiesta Firenze Grande Restaurant Five Coffee Company Italiano’s Jaspas May’s Sawadee Mike’s Chicken Comida de Portugal Paisano’s Pepperonis Pizzeria La Gondola Sauce Sawadee Thai Starbucks Steamers Takka Fusion T.C. Deli Tree Cafe (Horizon Plaza) The Duke of York

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-

The Dutch The Sandwich Club, HKUST Union Jacks Vilavila Gourmet Village Restaurant

Shops -

The Bottleshop The Courtyard East Point City Shopping Mall Everything Under The Sun (Horizon Plaza) Final Fragment Fusion, Centro Plaza Fusion, Clearwater Bay Ka Ying Curtain Craft Leisure Book Shop Life’s a Breeze (Horizon Plaza) Look Upstairs One Kowloon Patsy House Rich On House Property Agency Sai Kung Market Schmidt Vinothek Taste (East Point City) Today Speed Photo Finishing Mirth TREE Watsons Wine Cellar Wood + Kitchen

Pets and Vets

Schools and Kindergartens

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vines in sai kung

stephen says...

Trouble down the road

Vehicle permit applications, problematic road users and existentialism in practice, writes Stephen Vines. range from cheating, to foul smelling vehicles and selective acceptance of passengers.

However my experience of Sai Kung taxis is that they provide a pretty good service. Local drivers have excellent knowledge of the location of even quite small villages. They tend to be both polite and helpful. It’s a pity therefore that they have got caught up in wider criticism of the taxi trade.

Are taxi drivers problematic?

A victory for common sense I am extremely happy to report a victory for common sense; it concerns the saga over the troublesome process of applying for an annual resident’s permit to gain vehicular access to the Sai Kung Country Park.

This matter has now been reviewed by Maureen Siu, the Sai Kung District Officer, who is keen to reduce the level of unnecessary bureaucracy entailed in obtaining these permits.

By my calculation the last time I applied for one of these permits I had to produce no less than seven pieces of documentation (there is some dispute over this number but it’s all history now).

Thanks to Ms Siu’s efforts the whole process has been streamlined for renewals (new applications are another matter). The net result is that as of now a resident seeking license renewal needs merely to present a utilities bill, dated within three months of the application, as proof of residence.

It gets a bit complicated if the vehicle is in a company name or the premises are rented but this is overcome by presenting a letter indicating that the company in question either authorizes the applicant to use the vehicle or confirms that they are residents of the property.

Understandably the authorities need to ensure that access permits are not abused so there needs to be some way of verifying

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genuine residence however, thanks to Ms Siu it is no longer an onerous process. Phew!

What to do about cyclists?

Less obvious is what to do about cyclists who, in this cooler season, are more and more evident on Sai Kung’s roads. As a former cyclist I neither resent their presence nor favour curbs on their access to the roads.

However Sai Kung’s roads tend to be narrow and more than one cyclist riding abreast can cause an obstruction to other vehicles, indeed even a single file cyclist can slow down traffic.

I see no reason to get exercised by this and car drivers will just have to learn patience.

However cyclists hogging the middle of the road or riding in clumps are asking for trouble.

They too must appreciate that they don’t have a right to monopolise the highways and might also consider that the use of offensive finger gestures is unlikely to make them loved.

Unfortunately cyclists have been injured on the roads and there have been fatalities. It cannot axiomatically be assumed that vehicle drivers are to blame.

A bit more give and take between all road users is going to make life a hell of a lot better.

Give Sai Kung taxi drivers a break Another type of road user that gets a bad press are taxi drivers. It is possible that elsewhere in Hong Kong taxis are problematic. Complaints

Existentialism at the Housing Authority Finally I am in a position to exclusively report a small outbreak of existentialism in premises owned by the Housing Authority known as The Domain, a shopping centre located close to the Kowloon side of the Eastern Harbour Tunnel.

In its car park stands a sealed off parking space with a sign proudly proclaiming just one word - PENDING. What does this mean? Is it a philosophical reflection on the state of the world, a statement of intent of what is to come or maybe, more mundanely, a statement of intent that the fate of this space has yet to be determined? If famous existentialist thinkers such as Sartre and Kierkegaard were not dead we could ask them but alas philosophers are never around when you need them most.

Maybe the Housing Department’s website could provide an answer. Alas it yielded nothing however, I did manage to find this statement regarding its procurement policy, which I think can be described as existentialism in practice: HA has established its own operating procurement arrangements in accordance with her (sic) unique Housing Authority Stores Regulations (HASR) and Housing Authority Procurement and Supplies Instructions (HAPSI). The HASR are made by the Director of Housing and approved by HA under Sections 4 and 10 of the Housing Ordinance.

Although HA is not required to follow the requirements of Stores and Procurement Regulations of the Hong Kong Government (SPR), HA will make reference to and generally follow the broad procurement principles and practices of the SPR, where applicable.

Stephen Vines is a journalist, broadcaster and entrepreneur.

He is the former editor of the Eastern Express and Southeast Asia correspondent for The Observer.

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EXCELLENCE IN INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION KINDERGARTEN TO SECONDARY A STRONG COMMUNITY ETHOS BEAUTIFUL GREEN LOCATION

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International College Hong Kong is a dynamic IB world school across two campuses in the beautiful New Territories ICHK Hong Lok Yuen has been providing high quality education for more than 30 years, and follows the IB Primary Years Programme, with a solid foundation in Maths and English. At our primary and secondary sites, inspirational teachers work in partnership to deliver a through train education to students of all nationalities.

ICHK Secondary is a school which is proud to embrace innovation in learning, and a unique and stimulating curriculum has been developed for students. Classes are kept deliberately small as individual attention and guidance is key to the learning philosophy. Learning is centred on emerging best practices, using insights and innovations from around the world. In Years 10-11 students follow IGCSEs, then the IB Diploma in Years 12 to 13.

The school celebrates strong academic results, has a strong community ethos and provides a supportive environment where students of all nationalities can thrive.

Kindergarten and Primary Campus 3, Twentieth Street, Hong Lok Yuen, New Territories.

Tel: (852) 3955 3000 Email: info@Ichkhly.edu.hk Web: www.ichk.edu.hk Secondary Campus 60 Sha Tau Kok Road, Sha Tau Kok, New Territories Tel: (852) 2655 9018 Email: info@ichk.edu.hk Web: www.ichk.edu.hk