Sai Kung Magazine August 2013 by Hong Kong Living Ltd

The really useful magazine Cover picture by Aerobots Hong Kong

AUGUST 2013

feral Love our ds. frien Carly Smith

Restrict cows to the islands. Watch Dean Bailey

out for our buffalo friends when driving – speeding kills

land Designated cows. for the Chris Windle

Install a cattle grid to keep them in and stop putting them at

Move the cows to risk from vehicles. Nicola Newbery a safer place – it’s very dangerous Make sure cow dung is late at night scooped up even when quickly to driving slowly. minimise mess Rita McClellan

Christian Kwan

PEOPLE

Serene Chan

VINES IN SAI KUNG

4 Snapped! Sai Kung’s social life. THE PLANNER 6 Happening in August Things to do, places to go, people to see. LETTERS

14 Gridlock The schemes and machinations clogging up Sai Kung. FEATURE 16 Readers’ Choice Awards 2013 And the winners are... EATING

8 Have your say Views from our readers. NEWS 10 What’s going on? The latest from your backyard. LOCAL 12 Here come the fish The rebirth of Hong Kong waters.

and smells.

32 Nibbles Sai Kung’s new tapas bar and other news from the dining scene. FAMILY 35 Spook town How to feed a Hungry Ghost. EDUCATION 36 Student volunteers Charities looking for young helpers. Plus ESF’s new admissions procedure.

OUTDOORS 38 Cool pools Where to splash down this summer. Plus Sai Kung Stingrays say thanks. HIKES 40 Lantau’s beaten track Cowpat Beach and beyond. BIRD AT MY WINDOW 41 The fork-tailed sunbird David Diskin bows out with a beauty. TRAVEL 42 Tracks across China Author Chris Taylor takes the paths less travelled. HEALTH & BEAUTY 44 After sun How to keep glowing.

PETS 46 Unleash the beasts? Hazel Black explains Hong Kong’s leash laws. Plus obedience classes. MARKETPLACE 48 Your guide to shops and services Cool stuff to buy and do. CLASSIFIEDS 54 Loads of random useful local stuff. ULTIMATE GUIDE 56 All you need to know Numbers that make life easier. ON PATROL 58 On the hoof Tim Sharpe rethinks the police response to feral cattle.

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“Success is often the result of taking a misstep in the right direction” – Al Bernstein

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people

Pictures: Hannah Grogan and Karen Chow

Snaps from Sai Kung

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say cheese Hebe Haven Yacht Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 50th-anniversary celebrations

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

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planner

Aug 15-19 Hong Kong Food Expo Graze the annual foodies exhibition, with dishes from around the world, a Gourmet Zone and more. Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai, www.hktdc.com. We’re giving away tickets to the Hong Kong Food Expo. To enter, please send an email with your full name and mailing address to free@saikung.com with the subject “Hong Kong Food Expo”.

Want tickets?

Aug 8-11 Concert in the Dark

Aug 19 Official start of the year for ESF schools – check exact dates with each school.

Aug 21 Hong Kong Academy opens its new Sai Kung campus.

Aug 30 First day for Clearwater Bay’s new Waldorf school, Forest House International.

Until Aug 25 Ocean Park Summer Splash Get wet at the park’s annual summer festivities, including water fights and a giant water slide. Ocean Park, Wong Chuk Hang, 3923 2323, www.oceanpark.com.hk.

The audience can hear but not see as Asian superstars take the stage in pitch blackness at this annual concert series produced with help from the visually impaired. KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $480-$1,500 from www.concert-in-thedark.hk, 2310 8610.

Aug 9-11 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix Catch the action with teams from China, Turkey, Czech Republic and Argentina at the Hong Kong Coliseum, Hung Hom, 2771 0293, www.vbahk.org.hk.

Aug 10 W Hotel Pool Party Get wet at the ultimate splash-in at the 76th floor pool of the W Hotel. 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, 3717 2783.

Aug 5-11 Hong Kong Restaurant Week More than 50 Hong Kong restaurants offer multicourse menus at affordable prices. Details at www.restaurantweek.hk.

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Until Aug 11 International Children’s Film Carnival Engaging children’s movies from around the world. Hong Kong Film Archive, Hong Kong Space Museum, Hong Kong Science Museum. Details at www.hkiac.gov.hk. Tickets from Urbtix, 2734 9009, www.urbtix.hk.

happening in august Aug 15 Linkin Park Living Things

Until Aug 11 International Arts Carnival Family-friendly performances including dance, musical theatre, acrobatics, puppetry, physical comedy, with many events in English. Details at www.hkiac. gov.hk. Tickets from Urbtix, 2734 9009, www.urbtix.hk.

Live and rocking the AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $288-$888 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288. Details at www.linkinpark.com.

Aug 25 Hong Kong Scottish Day Sevens, beer and a tug-o-war, the Scottish Rugby Football Club kicks off the season. King’s Park, Kowloon, www.hongkongscottish.com.

Aug 11 Air Supply Live in Hong Kong Will Hong Kong ever be all out of love with this Aussie musical duo? AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau. Tickets $480-$880 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Aug 13 The Smashing Pumpkins Live In town for one night only. AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau. Tickets $580-$780 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

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Until Sep 2 Under the Same Sky Exhibition Check out Hong Kong’s worst weather at this free exhibition for the observatory’s 130th anniversary. 1/F Hong Kong Museum of History, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2724 9042.

Aug 21 Hungry Ghost Festival Spook city (see p.35).

Aug 23-25 Michael Jackson The Immortal Music by MJ, moves by Cirque du Soleil. AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $245-$1,288 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Book now Sep 5-Oct 6 Hong Kong International Comedy Festival

Sep 25-29 Shakespeare’s Globe The Taming of the Shrew

Sep 29 Suede Live in Hong Kong

Back for its seventh year and funnier than ever. Join the audience or stand up and take the mic. Details at www.hkcomedyfestival.com.

London’s Globe Theatre recreates the Elizabethan staging of Shakespeare’s comedy. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $265$795 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Brit-pop lives. AsiaWorld Expo, Lantau. Tickets $580-$780 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Oct 12 Justin Bieber Live in Macau

Sep 13-14 Rihanna Live in Macau The Diamonds diva is selling out fast. CotaiArena, The Venetian Macau. Tickets $280$1,700 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Graham Uden/HKaerial.com

Become a Beleiber for the night (we won’t tell). CotaiArena, The Venetian Macau. Tickets $380-$1,768 from www.hkticketing. com, 3128 8288.

Oct 19-20 International Water Polo Tournament and Beach Games Sign up now for beach-based fun and games, including an open-water swim from Stanley to Repulse Bay. Repulse Bay Beach, Hong Kong Island. Details at www.openwaterasia.com.

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letters The people speak We asked for you opinion... and you let us have it. Hundreds of readers responded to our Readers’ Choice Awards for the best (and worst) of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay. (See the results on page 16). We also asked what you would like to see in Sai Kung Magazine. Here’s what you said. Distribution and mailing: You asked for more distribution points around Sai Kung and we have now added nine new locations. For the full list, visit www.saikung.com. More activities: We are planning a new section about day trips and packing the magazine with even more things to do. Put Sai Kung online: We are expanding our online presence. At www.saikung.com, there is an online version of the magazine, plus loads of extra stuff. More columnists: We are always on the lookout for columnists. If you have something to say, or a special interest - we want to hear from you. For details, please email editor@fastmedia.com.hk.

“Be available in more places.” – Sze Kei-chan “There should be a prize for the monthly best photo.” – Nicola Newbery “Keep publishing (and keep Mr Vines’ rants)!” – Sherrin Loh “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” – Lesley Williams “More distribution – mailbox delivery.” – Marie Bourrut Lacouture

“It’d be very interesting to have a section about traditional culture and practices around Sai Kung, or ‘a local’s point of view’ offering an insight into local culture.” – Daniel Sierra “More information on activities for both kids and adults. More sports information and local playgroups.” – Emily Wiltshire

Please email your letters to editor@saikung.com. We may edit for length.

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What do you want to see in Sai Kung? From the Readers’ Choice Awards. To-do list 1. Create a waterfront park. 2. Improve the pavements and walkways. They are a disgrace and accessibility for the disabled and infirm is very poor. 3. Create bike lanes. 4. Provide more facilities to store bikes. 5. Constrain landlords to prevent local businesses being driven out. 6. Limit access for private cars at the weekend. 7. Reverse the policy on New Territories’ land rights. 8. Support alfresco dining. 9. Give hefty fines to folks who park their cars on our pavements. 10. Put Steve Vines in a position of power. He talks good sense. Martin Kennard

have your say Let it flow There are many construction works along the main roads in Sai Kung which cause long traffic jams. Most of these take place in the afternoon. It would be great if these could be done at night. River or stream cleanups would be great. For example, the stream through Sha Kok Mei is always full of rubbish of all kinds. The government cuts the plants growing there but they never clean it. Daniel Sierra Pedestrians only Pedestrianise the town centre at weekends and holidays. Sort the parking out for it to work well. Essentially stop the roads of Sai Kung becoming a parking lot at weekends. Control the dogs: owners are allowing their pets to ruin the enjoyment of others in Sai Kung, and of course most of these dog owners are the weekend tourists who don’t have to worry about the mess they leave behind. Stop the government car park company from ripping off people. It’s cheaper to park in Central than most Sai Kung car parks. Philip Marner

We like bikes! The lack of facilities for cyclists was a major area of complaint. Here’s a small sample of what you had to say.

available too so that visitors can use them as well. Tryphaena Talas

Two wheels good We really need to encourage more cycling and make it safe. I would love to cycle to Sai Kung with my kids but it is too dangerous on the roads and there is nowhere “legal” to leave your bike once you get there. It is ridiculous. Sai Kung’s major problem is traffic so we should at least allow the locals to get on their bikes. Instead of widening the road to Sai Kung, arrange for some park’n’ride locations and let the tourists/visitors come in that way. Keep the coaches out (particularly around the waterfront area). You could have some “Boris bikes”

Hang Hau no solution There’s one place to lock up your bike in town and it’s on the far side of the stadium. I called the council about this as my bike was taken by them (never to be seen again). Their response? Ride to Hang Hau, lock up your bike and catch a bus back to Sai Kung. Makes a whole lotta sense, huh? Bikes are green, take up almost no space, don’t kill people, get you in shape and are inexpensive and accessible to everyone. We should be more insistent on looking after our environment. Nathan Fleck

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news

Food Expo hits Hong Kong Following the success of last year, the Hong Kong International Food Expo will open on August 15. The five-day event will present over a thousand exhibitors and feature food from countries around the world including Japan, Malaysia, Korea, Mexico, Thailand, and many more. Special events including cooking demonstrations by famous chefs, conferences and competitions will also be held. The expo will also see a special gourmet zone exhibiting under four themes: Western Delicacy, Asian Cuisine, Sweet Delight, and Chic & More. Tickets are available at Circle K and 7-Eleven until August 19 or you can buy online at www.hkticketing.com.

Want tickets?

Annual cleanup Registration has now begun for the 13th Hong Kong Cleanup. One of the largest environmental volunteer events in Hong Kong, the event sees huge numbers turn out to help clean up the area. The annual event will take place from September 21 to November 1, with three challenges to choose from: Coastal Cleanup Challenge, Country Cleanup Challenge and City Cleanup Challenge, where you get a chance to clean up our renowned coastlines, parks and urban areas respectively. For full details or to become part of this eco-friendly event, visit www.HKcleanup.org.

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We’re also giving away tickets for the Food Expo. To enter, please email with your full name and mailing address to free@saikung.com with the subject “Hong Kong Food Expo.”

Mozzies be gone Hong Kong’s humid summer always comes with a swarm of mosquitos, that’s definitely not news. To help combat the hassle of applying sticky and unpleasant bug repellent sprays, Para’Kito’s protective mosquito wristband has hit Hong Kong shelves. The number one natural mosquito protection in France is now available in a number of speciality stores around Hong Kong and for purchase online. The waterproof bands offer 15 days of protection and are available in a number of styles to suit. For details, visit hk.parakito.com.

local

go fish

Senior Consultant Editor Jane Steer jane@fastmedia.com.hk Deputy Editor Hannah Grogan hannah@fastmedia.com.hk Art Director Sammy Ko sammy@fastmedia.com.hk Graphic Designer Carly Tonna carly@fastmedia.com.hk Sales Manager Nobel Cho nobel@fastmedia.com.hk Sales Executive Jackie Wilson jackie@fastmedia.com.hk Digital Content Editor Sharon Wong sharon@fastmedia.com.hk Accounts Manager Connie Lam connie@fastmedia.com.hk Publisher Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk This month’s contributors Carolynne Dear Stephen Vines David Diskin Marie Teather Pete Spurrier Sally Andersen Tim Sharpe Chris Taylor Hazel Black Henry Hsiao Karen Chow Kristine Chen Rosie Whitehouse Rob Luxton Printer Gear Printing Room 3B, 49 Wong Chuk Hang Road, (Derrick Industrial Building), Wong Chuk Hang Published by Fast Media Limited LG1, 222 Queens Road Central Hong Kong Give us a call! Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772 Sai Kung Magazine is published by Fast Media Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Fast Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any way, part or format without written permission from the publisher.

www.fastmedia.com.hk

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Here come the fish The rebirth of Hong Kong waters. By Hannah Grogan. Hong Kong’s waters are on their way to being healthier than ever and we’ve got the fish to prove it. And not just any fish – a 226kg Pacific blue marlin was caught off the coast earlier last month, causing quite a stir among local anglers. While it’s common to find the black marlin in the South China Sea, many believe big blue may be a first for Hong Kong. But it’s not just the marlins that have everyone buzzing. Local fishermen report that since the ban on all trawling activities came into effect last December, the waters have seen a renewal of life. After years of overfishing, Hong Kong’s waters were in desperate need of a reprieve. The ban on trawling was introduced to help with marine conservation, promote sustainable development, and boost eco-tourism. Just seven months in, reports from the water have sparked much local interest and support for the ban. “It’s a lot healthier,” says local angler Kim Stuart, who has been fishing off the coast of Hong Kong for 26 years and runs Tailchasers, a deep sea fishing company that operates out of Aberdeen. “We’ve been seeing quite

a considerable number of high quantity schools of fish inshore,” says Stuart. “I’ve heard many reports from local anglers ... they’ve been reporting bigger fish and more variety inshore. In May we even saw a whole cloud of shrimp within the Aberdeen marina area itself.”

Record-breaking ‘big blue’.

Stuart says this, much like the blue marlin sighting, was a highly unusual occurrence. Meanwhile, there have been a number of other reports of out-ofthe-ordinary sea life sightings. In April a Youtube video of a shark sighted in Sai Kung went viral. The video hit home for many, especially those who still recall the

shark attacks of the early 1990s. Though experts say there is no immediate cause for concern, the video sent out a different message – more fish could also bring in more sharks. But while anecdotal evidence suggests a renewal of life in the seas, some experts are not convinced. Rob Christie, chairman of the South China Diving Club, feels it is still too early to measure any changes, though he supports the ban wholeheartedly. “We thank all of the fishermen who have supported the trawling ban in local waters and are cooperating to make it effective,” says Christie. “Their support is most critical in helping the Hong Kong fisheries start to recover from decades of overfishing.” Christie is not the only one waiting for more conclusive data. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department also says it’s too soon to see any change. A spokesperson from the AFCD, says a longer survey period is needed to draw any conclusions. Yet out on the water, the signs are promising. And the anglers are all saying the same thing – the fish are coming back.

vines in sai kung

stephen says...

Schemes and machinations Stephen Vines on the Hoi Ha sand grab, people power and Sai Kung gridlock. Distortions, money grabbing and destruction In case anyone is still labouring under the quaint illusion that the Sai Kung Country Park is safe from unscrupulous property developers, take a look at the shenanigans surrounding plans for the development of Hoi Ha, which nestles on the coastline a little distance from the Wong Shek pier. On June 28 the Town Planning Board was presented, yet again, with an inaccurate map of the shoreline when it examined the Outline Zoning Plan for Hoi Ha. It shows the shoreline moving some way further inland, reflecting a reality created by certain villagers selling off part of the beach to construction companies needing sand. Apparently this abuse has been accepted by the government as a fait accompli, thus distorting both the ecological and environmental impact on this area of natural habitation. The bottom line, of course, is money as some landowners in Ho Ha are keen for development and need restrictions removed to further their plans. As ever the Rural District Committee, representing the interests of a small minority of residents, is pushing to build and build again. You do not have to be an anti-development activist to be appalled by this. Many people said to be standing in the path of developers are ready to acknowledge that a certain amount of development is acceptable in the country parks as long as it conforms to the area’s environmental needs and is sensitive towards its ecology. Unfortunately the system of administration prevailing in the New Territories gives first preference to the views of the Heung Yee Kuk, with everyone else coming in a distant second.

This in turn reflects the hideously distorted system of governance in Hong Kong as a whole (don’t get me started). We are told the system cannot be fundamentally reformed because that would produce “chaos”. Much the same was said in Victorian Britain about the consequences of giving women the vote and, coming to think of it, the same argument was used to thwart independence for the American colonies… how did that work out?

As ever, the Rural District Committee is pushing to build and build again Sai Kung on the march Talking of radical ideas, which in Hong Kong includes common sense, readers should be aware that Sai Kung scored a first at the July 1 democracy rally when Tseung Kwan O residents made an impressive impact by coming along and pressing their case against the proposed landfill. This campaign should have had the effect of shutting up all those who believe that quiet behind-thescenes diplomacy works. It does not and this campaign has proved successful. Of course it has not solved the pressing problem of what to do with mounting piles of waste but it has demonstrated to the bureaucrats that they need to be a hell of a lot more aware of local views when making plans.

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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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Is there a way out of this gridlock? I can hardly be alone among Sai Kung residents in my reluctance to go into Sai Kung town on Sundays because of the gridlock on the roads – well, one road. The solution favoured by the bureaucrats is to make Hiram’s Highway bigger, but far more imaginative initiatives have been expressed by Sai Kung residents in the letters page of the South China Morning Post. Two solutions have my vote. First is the idea of a weekend ferry service from Hong Kong Island, and maybe Kowloon, that will not only relieve some of the transportation pressure but also introduce a pleasant way of travelling to Sai Kung. Secondly, I like the idea of creating a parking scheme with feeder buses outside the main Sai Kung town area. This is feasible from Ma On Shan, Sha Tin and even Choi Hung. Drivers should be able to save money and get to their destination more quickly. However, big thinking is what the bureaucracy likes to do least. Presented with a problem the instinctive response is to look for the simplest solution even if it is costly and has poor consequences for the environment. The weekend traffic congestion in Sai Kung town is simply not going to be relieved by encouraging more cars to cram into a space that is not big enough to accommodate them. Yet, no doubt, the “experts” will inform us they have devised a new scheme for defying gravity.

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What’s yours?

Sai Kung Campus opens August 2013. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for PK1 – Grade 12. For more details or to book into one of our upcoming Information Sessions, please call 2655-1112. www.hkacademy.edu.hk

14 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

U.S. Art and Design University in Hong Kong Bachelor of Fine Arts Master of Arts Master of Fine Arts Visit SCAD Hong Kong to learn more about the university’s outstanding degree programs and facilities, experience student life, and meet one-on-one with professors. 參觀薩凡納藝術設計大學(香港)，認識更多優質大學學位課程及校內設施，體驗校園生活，及與教職員面談交流。 292 Tai Po Road, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon, Hong Kong 九龍深水埗大埔道292號

For more information, call +852.2253.8044, email admission_hk@scad.edu or visit scad.edu.

private · nonprofit · accredited Courses of study are registered with the Hong Kong Education Bureau, registration numbers: 261958-261971. It is a matter of discretion for individual employers to recognize any qualification to which these courses may lead.

薩凡納藝術設計大學 ( 香港 )

現已接受二零一三年九月招生

awards

Readers’ Choice Awards The results are in for the best (and worst) of Sai Kung as chosen by you, our readers, in our fourth annual awards.

Best beach Clearwater Bay Second Beach It was a close call, but the people’s choice for best beach is Clearwater Bay Second Beach. A lot easier to get to than the runner up (and last year’s winner) Tai Long Wan, just visit on any sunny Sunday to see it brings in the numbers. The largest of Clearwater Bay’s two beaches has plenty of space for stretching out a towel or digging a hole (save the ballgames for winter, when the lifeguards aren’t looking). Favoured for its convenience and facilities, including a lifeguard service, shark nets, diving platforms, beach umbrella rental and a shop selling cold drinks and ice creams, it’s a popular option for families. There’s a carpark, but it fills up quickly on hot weekends: we recommend a cab or bus 91 from Clearwater Bay Road. To beat the crowds, go mid-week or in early morning as the sun comes up. Hannah Grogan

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Your votes

26%

Clearwater Bay Second Beach

24%

Tai Long Wan

15%

Trio Beach

13% Sai Wan

22% Others

awards Why live in Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay?

Best-kept village Sheung Sze Wan

24%

Ocean and beaches

22%

Village atmosphere

The different moods of Second Beach.

Deep in Clearwater Bay, Sheung Sze Wan has a party attitude, strong community spirit and some very desirable property. Contemporary renovations (think island kitchens and bi-fold doors) are big in this chic spot. Located way out east at the bottom of a steep hill, Sheung Sze Wan is a higgledy-piggledy sort of place, with charming narrow lanes and spectacular views. It’s set behind a beach and shallow bay separated by a small headland crowded with multimillion-dollar properties. That lovely location makes it a popular spot for water sports and the bay is always buzzing with activity: wakeboarding, snorkelling, sailing and – at low tide – crabbing and skimboarding. There’s even a local water sports group, The Black Shrimp, named for a sailing boat that once graced the bay, which raises eyebrows and smiles with its colourful paraphernalia at the annual 24-hour dinghy race at Hebe Haven Yacht Club. The beach is the focus of the village’s many social activities, including carols at Christmas and lantern parties at Mid-Autumn Festival. But the community’s big heart really shows when one of their own needs help, such as the Stella Standing Tall charity that raised money towards the medical bills of a two-year-old in neighbouring Lobster Bay. “There is a lot of local pride in the village,” says resident Careth Shreeve. We can see why. Rosie Whitehouse

20% Clean air

19%

Friendly people

15%

Amazing hiking

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Photo: Ferdinand Corpuz

awards

Photo: Eric Luk

Trio Beach

Hoi Ha Photo: Jackie Peers

Tai Long Wan

Favourite hike & best place to drop anchor Tai Long Wan “Sai Kung has a beautiful relationship with nature. The air is fresh, the grass and trees are greener than ever, and the water is cool and clear” – Reena Eser MacLehose Trail Stage 3

Photo: Graham Uden

Wildly beautiful Tai Long Wan holds a special place in our readers’ hearts. It may have been pipped to the post for the title of Best Beach this year, but these three stretches of silver sand in a glorious bay in Sai Kung Country Park get the nod for best hike and best place to drop anchor. One of the most secluded spots in the area, it’s a retreat for stressed Hong Kongers and surfer dudes. Best time to go? Any time – Tai Long Wan is rarely crowded. But the hike in can be a face melter, so start early on hot days. How to get there: Catch bus 29R from McDonald’s in Sai Kung town to Sai Wan Pavilion for a 40-minute hike to Sai Wan (80 mins to Ham Tin, 95 mins to Tai Wan). Alternatively, catch the 94 or 96R from Sai Kung to Wong Shek Pier, a ferry to Chek Keng and a one-hour walk to Tai Wan. Speedboats are also available from Sai Kung and Wong Shek on calm days. Honourable mentions: Trio Beach, Hoi Ha, MacLehose Trail Stage 3, Sharp Peak, to the pub... HG

Sharp Peak

Does Sai Kung need bicycle lanes?

12% No

88% Yes

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awards

Best pizza Paisano’s It’s hard to compete with the pizza juggernaut that is Paisano’s. And with its renovation in April, Paisano’s Sai Kung is bigger and even better. It continues to serve New York-style giant pizza slices – but quicker and faster than before. The most popular slice? Paisano’s pizza with sausages, pepperoni, mushroom, black olives and onions. “We do get some crazy requests at times,” says restaurant manager Angela Wong. “We have made pizza that was half vegetables and half meat for a meat-loving husband and a vegetarian wife. We’ve also made a Happy Birthday pizza with the age spelled out in pepperoni slices!” If you you are feeling keen, try the 24-inch pizza challenge: two hungry people can eat for free if they can polish it all off in 20 minutes. If not, pull out $190 to pay for the pizza and another $100 to donate to charity. Karen Chow 27 Chan Man Street, Sai Kung, 2791 4445.

Best bar Steamers

Steamers gets your vote for best bar this year. Now in its fifth year in its current location, Steamers by day is a chilled-out spot where regulars sit and chat or enjoy a cold beer under the warm Sai Kung sun. By night, it’s more buzzing with locals and tourists alike relaxing on the alfresco terrace, propping up the bar or cheering on their favourite team during sporting events screened on the TVs. Regular event nights include Monday night pizza, Wednesday night curry and Sunday roasts.

It also hosts a monthly pop-up market, Sai Kung Sampler, on the first Thursday of the month (from September-June) and frequent livemusic events. And keeping things interesting are seasonal food and drink specials – try a healthy salad with a watermelon sangria from the new summer menu – and a range of organic wines. “It’s usually calm during the day,” says manager Holly, “unless the rugby is on. Then it can get quite rowdy.” Henry Hsiao 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991, www.steamerssaikung.com.

Opened in 1996, Jaspas has been a favourite dining rendezvous for nearly 20 years. Occasionally flooded with tourists, Jaspas in Sai Kung is usually busy with regulars (and their pets). Manager Lai Kingsing, who has worked in Jaspas for most of his adult life, recalls one of Jaspas’ best nights. “After dinner, a table of customers went up to the iPad, turned up the music and started dancing down the aisle. A few minutes later, everyone in the whole restaurant was out of their seats, dancing,” he says. It’s this fun, friendly atmosphere that keeps you coming back. Jaspas decor is simple and family friendly, but

the ambience and atmosphere is set by the people. Despite the variety of dishes on the menu, most know what they’re having before they even arrive. “When people come to Jaspas, they know what they want; it’s their comfort food,” Sing says. HH 13 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, 2792 6388.

Best restaurant & best pet-friendly restaurant Jaspas

Chicken fajitas, a Jaspas signature. Right: Lai King-sing.

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awards

Best new restaurant Chip In The heart-shaped potato on the logo for Sai Kung chippy Chip In indicates that this is more than a humble fish ’n’ chips joint. Opened in November, the British-style takeaway was an instant hit, with its crispy fat chips and crunchy fried fish made from ling cod and New Zealand potatoes, deep-fried in fresh sunflower oil. Other menu items include Marmite and cheese sandwiches and Hong Kong’s only deep-fried Oreo. And we love the little touches such as the handmade postboxshaped trays. But manager and founder Vicky Chan believes Chip In has the potential to be more than a chip shop. Previously a social worker who ran vocational training sessions for those with intellectual disabilities, Chan hopes to provide

employment to people with disabilities. “That’s why I chose the name Chip In,” she says, “we try to help through fish and chips.” KC 9 King Man Street, Sai Kung, 9761 5091.

Best CUP OF COFFEE Classified Despite being part of a growing chain, Classified Sai Kung feels like a local cafe that has a close relationship with its regulars. It’s a welcoming place, with nostalgic decor of white bricks and wooden floors, mismatched furniture and the aroma of freshly made lattes and cappuccinos. “We treat our customers like family and we let our customers treat our cafe like home,” manager Connie Law says. Staff and menu have hardly changed since Law took over as manager in May 2011. She works hard to maintain and improve Classified as a comfortable, cosy neighbourhood cafe. “Of course, some people prefer white tablecloths and silverware in their restaurants. But our cafe is meant for regular people,” she explains. Most popular cup: A Classified cappuccino. HH 5 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, 2529 3454.

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awards

Best hairdressers Tala’s Hair & Beauty

About the cover The fantastic photograph on our cover was taken by Aerobots Hong Kong. Founded by Robert Luxton, it specialises in 360-degree aerial photography using small drones known as aerobots – a mini aircraft driven by propellers that carries a camera for low-altitude photography. For details and more inspiring images, visit www.aerobotshk.com.

It seems that Tala’s isn’t just a favourite in Sai Kung, but with people from across Hong Kong who travel from far and wide for a haircut by owner Mojdeh Kazemi. Her guarantee of customer satisfaction seems to be doing the trick. The latest trend, she says, is young boys coming in to bleach their hair crazy colours. “I always ask them, does your mom know about this? Because usually their moms send them back to re-dye their hair to its natural colour,” she says, laughing. As well as keeping people in Sai Kung pampered from head to toe – from highlights to pedicures, via spray tans and a whole host of hair and body treatments –

Tala’s has lately introduced a new bridal service, helping brides look beautiful on their special day. Sai Kung feels like one big family, says Kazemi, who believes her close connection with her team is key to maintaining a relationship with her customers. RW 56 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2335 1694.

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email sales@robstep.hk

www.robstep.hk

awards

Best beauty treatment & best mani-pedi & best spa experience Sense of Touch

Bringing it home with a hat-trick, Sense of Touch is your favourite place to be pampered in Sai Kung. When we told Sense of Touch staff they had won three separate awards, they beamed with satisfaction. “It’s all about teamwork and team spirit,” says manager Christy Long. Before joining Sense of Touch, Long worked in hotel spas but she fell in love with Sai Kung when she started working in the area. And it shows. “Working here, the clientele is much more personalized. We get to establish trust with our clients and treat them as more than just

as a guest but also as their friend,” she says. The spa is very zen, with calming colours, comfortable furnishings and decorative Oriental

motifs. We feel better just walking through the doors and breathing in the scented air. No wonder the couple’s treatments are proving popular. HH

77 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2791 2278.

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awards

Sai Kung state of mind “Sai Kung has a culture to itself, a perfect balance of local and western.” – Philip Marner

“Sai Kung feels like a holiday that lasts forever ;)” – Leroy Rieder “It could use a paint job.” – Lauren McPhate

“I love having brekkie in the square on Sundays. People are chatting, kids are running, smiling and having fun, and the elderly just chillin’ out.” – Ana Marija Trosca “Widening highways so more people can visit or trying to get big brands will kill what is special about Sai Kung. It is perfect the way it is.” – David Carter

“A trap neuter release programme approval. The puppy homing booths outside Starbucks are overpopulated. There are simply not enough residents to take in all the puppies popping out in the area.” – Catherine Lumsden “It would be a dream to have bicycle tracks.” – Sharon Schenkel

“[We need] a vegetarian restaurant serving local fresh organic food. It is very difficult for vegetarians to eat out in Sai Kung.” – Kate O’Hara

“Sai Kung is a beautiful little seaside town – stop trying to turn it into a concrete jungle with high-street shops. Keep it local.” – Gillian Prior

“More off-road bus stops. More policing and ticketing of minibuses that stop on the road to pick up passengers and make the traffic back up.” – Alan Reid

“More outdoor gatherings, music festivals and community activities!” – Darinka Montico

“Put that failed mall to use.” – Lea Metcalfe

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“Put Steve Vines in a position of power. He talks good sense.” – Martin Kennard

awards

What’s the beef? The feral cows were a hot topic. Here’s what you had to say.

feral Love our nds. frie

d land Designate ows. c e for th Chris Windle

Install a cattle grid to keep them in and stop putting them at risk from vehicles.

Carly Smith

Move the cows to Nicola Newbery Restrict cows a safer place – to the islands. Watch it’s very dangerous Make sure Dean Bailey cow dung is out for our late at night s nd scooped up ie fr lo a buff even when quickly to – g in iv dr when driving slowly. minimise mess

speeding kills Christian Kwan

Rita McClellan

and smells.

Serene Chan

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awards Brand you want to see open in Sai Kung

43% 28% 5% 10% 14%

City’super

Marks and Spencer

Pacific Coffee

Fortress

Others

Favourite shop Shun Kee City Houseware Sai Kung residents have a soft spot in their hearts for “Harrods”, which got its nickname because, like London’s department store, it stocks all things for all people. Shun Kee City Houseware has been in Sai Kung for more than 50 years, moving from the old town to its current location in 1980. It employs only Sai Kung locals, who know the labyrinthine store inside out and can lay their hands on everything from a 12foot swimming pool to a dim sum steamer in seconds. “When you come to our store,

we help as much as we can,” says manager Kenny Wong of Shun Kee’s service philosophy. And he means it. Staff once came to the rescue of a pregnant woman who went into labour in the shop. Her baby boy is now 20 years old and remains a regular customer. As for suggestions that Shun Kee opens branches elsewhere in Hong Kong, Wong politely declines. “We want to keep the old traditions, keep it local,” he says. KC 6-10 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 9850.

Best home-furnishing shop TREE

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Best place to take your dog Sai Kung Waterfront Join the daily doggy promenade, costumes and pushchairs optional.

My, but you love TREE. This is the fourth consecutive win for the company in this category: the first time you voted TREE your favourite furnishing shop, back in 2010, it didn’t even have a Sai Kung branch. That opened in December 2011 after staff noticed the number of Sai Kung residents in its Ap Lei Chau flagship (we like to think your votes in our first Readers’ Choice Awards had something to do with it, too). “Our store on Man Nin Street is a great boutique retail space, which has an unrivalled view of the buzzing Sai Kung waterfront, but is a calm and relaxed atmosphere for customers and tourists alike to visit,” says managing director Kate Babington.

An “eco-chic boutique”, TREE prides itself on its green credentials: all the wood is recycled or sustainably sourced and certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Above all, though, it’s simply beautiful. “The beauty of TREE is that there is something for everyone. Some people have one signature piece while others have TREE houses,” Babington says. Locally, the company has plans to become more involved in community programmes and continuing to develop intimate relationships with Sai Kung locals. “We are in Sai Kung to stay – we love it,” Babington says. HH 116 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2791 2802.

awards

Best vet & best pet supplies store Dr Mike Muir & Pets Central When it comes to your pets’ wellbeing, long-time Sai Kung vet “Dr Mike” gets your vote. His air of calm competence soothes animals and owners alike. “Most Sai Kung pet owners are parents, and they love their dogs and cats like they’re their children,” he says. Dr Mike can be found most days in his clinic at Pets Central – winner of the Best Pet Supplies Store award – where he works alongside retail supervisor Nida Chu, assisted by two part-time vets and four nurses. Dr Mike hopes Pets Central, which opened in Sai Kung in 2006, will evolve into a 24-hour clinic. “After opening hours, people have to go to Kowloon or the island for emergencies. A 24-hour clinic is something Sai Kung needs and something we can do in the next few years,” he says. KC Open daily 9am-7pm. G/F, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 0833.

Expand Hiram’s Highway?

60% NO

40% YES

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awards

All in the family “You cannot take your kids out of school for one year to let them be an exchangestudent abroad, which seems silly given they attend an international school where broadening their horizons should be the number one priority.”

Kirsty Kelly

“The pollution caused by factories across the border is a concern. Taiwan seems to be very aware of things like recycling.”

Anne Christina Juel

“The education system in Hong Kong is quite demanding. It puts a lot of pressure on parents and kids.”

Cecilia Yeung Wing-yee “An overwhelming concern is the pollution. It’s such a beautiful city but not enough is being done to take care of the air and water quality.”

How do you feel about school fees? Emily Wiltshire

50%

Too expensive

“The road-safety record in Clearwater Bay for speeding and irresponsible driving by public light bus drivers is a concern when your child is being driven to and from school.” Samantha Richardson

“Would be nice to have a bicycle track to Sai Kung and around for a family day out.”

Gregoire B. Lacouture

Still good value

17%

Outrageous!

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34%

5/29/13 11:22 AM

awards Best place to take children Man Nin Square Playground, Sai Kung

Lions Nature & Education Centre

Best outdoor activity for kids Swimming

Bricks 4 Kidz

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awards

Thanks to everyone who cast their votes Here are the lucky prize-winners

WINNER: Reena Eser Six-month club membership at The Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen Valued at $15,300.

WINNER: Jeremy Butts

WINNER: Sherrin Loh

Three-night stay in the luxurious Baan Ling Noi Villa, Koh Samui Valued at $10,000.

WINNER: Martin Kennard Organic food package from South Stream Seafoods Valued at $3,500. Sponsors

WINNER: Coelina Robinson

Sailing course at Hebe Haven Yacht Club Valued at $10,000.

WINNER: Sze Kei Chan Melo Vitality Spa Package at Hyatt Regency, Sha Tin Valued at $3,500.

Three-course intraceuticals treatment at The Peninsula Valued at $5,940.

WINNER: Chris Wightman Dinner for four at Hebe One O One Valued at $2,200.

WINNER: Lori Foster Gift voucher from Sabai Day Spa Sai Kung Valued at $1,000.

eating

nibbles

Summer on a plate Mi Casa su casa After two years of planning, tapas bar Casa is to open this month. Owners James Bradshaw and Nathan Fleck (who also run Winerack.com) are promising reasonable prices, handpicked wines, boutique beers from the US, Britain and Australia, and a friendly welcome. The food will be modern tapas – think meatballs, anchovies and giant olives. We’ll see you there. Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square (close to Sai Kung Bakery and Hung Kee Seafood restaurant). For details, call Nathan on 9236 7707. The great Aussie barbie For an Australian-style barbecue on one of the finest alfresco terraces in town, try the new Sunday lunch at Q Deck, right on the edge of

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Q Deck’s Sunday barbecue.

the harbour. Expect seafood, lamb, steak and chicken on the grill, plus an antipasto buffet, decadent desserts and free-flowing beer and wine. There’s even a play area for the kids. Sundays, noon-4pm, $488 ($168 for children aged three-11). G/F, The Fleet Arcade, 1 Lung King Street, Wan Chai, 2827 8882. Summer with a cherry on top The healthy new summer menu at Steamers includes salads, seafood and tempting meat

dishes, plus more sinful old-school desserts such as a knickerbocker glory loaded with fruit, ice cream and fresh cream with a cherry on top. To drink, try a summer mojito or watermelon sangria. 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991. Dry-age before beauty Dry-ageing, an old technique getting a new lease of life in North America’s leading steak restaurants, is now available at new butcher, private kitchen and caterer The Butchers Club in Aberdeen. Dry-ageing specialist chef Aarik Persaud keeps prime US and Australian beef in a carefully controlled environment for 30-45 days to remove excess moisture and intensify the taste. “The two most prevalent flavours are nuts – from pine nuts to hazelnuts – and blue cheese,” he says. Once tried, there’s no going back. 13C Sun Ying Industrial Centre, 9 Tin Wan Close, Tin Wan, Aberdeen, 2552 8281, www.butchersclub.com.hk.

sponsored column

Picture: Graham Uden

Stingrays give props Ray Sting writes a thank-you note. As summer rolls on, all around the world the Sai Kung Stingrays mini and youth rugby players are practicing spin-passes off their left hands and regaling grandparents with tales of tackles made and tries scored last season. In the hiatus before the new season starts, we have time for something important: thanking our hard-working committee, coaches, managers and sponsors. Next season, we have some new faces joining the committee. This group of voracious volunteers is made up entirely of parents with day jobs – magicians who have conjured up hours we didn’t know existed that they dedicate

to the running of the club. Without them the club would not function.

Without them the club would not function And we have some new sponsors too. We are grateful to our long-standing partners for their continued patronage and we would like to thank departing sponsor Intel for their support since the club launched. Without these brands

we would not be able to keep our fees among the lowest of leading clubs in Hong Kong. In our technology-forward world, it is a privilege to be able to offer our thanks the oldfashioned way; in print. So, on behalf of every single Stingray – as well as former players and those about to join the club – we want each of you to know that you matter to our club and we respect your community-mindedness and generosity. Thank you Clifford Chance, CLP, Borelli Walsh, Securitas, Cathay Pacific Cargo, Pepperonis, Dickie Toys and Executive Centre. We will wear your names on our shirts with pride.

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18/6/13 1:21 |PM 39 WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

hikes Cowpat Beach Pete Spurrier is moo-ved by the natural beauty of the Lantau Trail.

Many hiking trails in Hong Kong have been marred by the over-enthusiastic addition of railings and cement steps, so it’s a real pleasure to find a path in its natural state. Stage 9 of the Lantau Trail is one of them. To get there, take a ferry from Central to Mui Wo and change to any bus heading for Tai O or Po Lin Monastery; from Tung Chung, catch bus 11 or 23. After 20 minutes or so, the bus will come to the long bund of Shek Pik dam. Disembark here and walk across the dam for an outstanding view of the spurs of Lantau Peak rolling down to the reservoir waters. Above, the Big Buddha watches over the area from his plateau. At the end of the dam is a yellow Lantau Trail sign. Turn right and follow a lane south, above a compound of beachfront buildings that looks like it could be a holiday resort, but is Shek Pik Prison. Beyond an old police post is a fork in the road. The trail runs to the left, but you can detour right to sea level to view a Bronze Age rock carving beside the prison walls. It was made by a mysterious seafaring people possibly 3,500 years ago. Back on the trail, a single-track road runs downhill to Shek Pik Youth Camp; turn left here

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into the greenery. From now on, the hike follows a natural stone and earth path, edged by bamboo and flowering shrubbery, and shaded at intervals by descents into cool, rocky valleys. The path rises gently until you reach a point overlooking the green coast with wonderful views in all directions. Offshore, the uninhabited Soko Islands are a beautiful backdrop to fishing boats and high-speed ferries racing to Macau. Keep following the path to a barbecue spot behind the quiet bay of Lo Kei Wan, known to locals as “Cowpat Beach”. The reason for the name is clear: feral cattle roam at will around South Lantau, leaving free fertiliser in their wake.

A Bronze Age rock carving... was made by a mysterious seafaring people

From the beach, the path strikes uphill on stone steps to join a service road. Turn left to complete the final stretch. A bridge built by Gurkhas in 1985 leads to Shui Hau village, named for the watercourses that empty here into a shallow bay, which is home to horseshoe crabs.

splat!

bird at my window

Ken gS han R

oad

The village is a little way off to the right. Rooms are available to rent at weekends, but on weekdays it’s so quiet that cattle often settle down in the middle of the road. From the bus stop, wave down a bus to Mui Wo or Tung Chung.

Shek Pik Reservoir

Fork-tailed sunbird

Trail Entrance

aka Aethopyga christinae

Shui Hau Village Sitting-out Area lantau Tong Fuk Miu Wan Shui Hau Wan

Tong Wan

This walk will take up to three hours. There are no shops, so carry enough water.

Pete Spurrier is the author of The Leisurely Hiker’s Guide to Hong Kong and The Serious Hiker’s Guide to Hong Kong (FormAsia).

The fork-tailed sunbird occurs in southern China, north Vietnam and central Laos, but sunbirds can be found in Africa and southern Asia as far east as Papua New Guinea and northeastern Australia. The family name Nectariniidae indicates many sunbird species depend on flowers as a source of food. The male fork-tailed sunbird is strikingly colourful with its metallic green crown, dark red breast and green mantle. The female by contrast is a rather dull green. In Hong Kong, the species is most common in secondary forest in the New Territories but it can also be found in forested country parks and urban gardens on Hong

Kong Island. It makes a pear-shaped nest from plant material that it suspends from leaves on a branch and lays two to four eggs, but little else is known about its breeding behaviour. Although colourful and rather vocal, it tends to stay high in trees and can be difficult to see well until certain flowers are in bloom – including bauhinia and coral trees – and birds come to feed on the nectar. On a hillside in Tai Po Kau, for example, there is an area of coral trees that flower in late winter. The trees are at eye-level beside the road through the forest and provide patient observers with excellent views. The fork-tailed sunbird is a largely resident species, although there is some evidence of movement; it only occurs on Po Toi Island in autumn and winter, for example. It is probable that these are local birds dispersing after the breeding season, but they might be migrants from further north. David Diskin is a writer and photographer based in the New Territories. His latest book is Hong Kong Nature Walks: Kowloon, Hong Kong & Outlying Islands. Details at www.accipiterpress.com.

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travel

Making tracks across China

Clockwise from top: By train through Tibet; Emei Shan’s Hongchunping Monastery; The Potala Palace, Lhasa.

Sai Kung resident Chris Taylor explores China’s remoter parts by train and on foot in his new book, Riding the Dragon. So much China, so little time. During my travels to every province in China (detailed in my book, Riding the Dragon), I have learned that the most famous places are not always the best to visit. The China less travelled is beautiful and repays the effort of getting there tenfold. Emei Shan, Sichuan Province Sichuan is huge and varied with beautiful snowcapped mountains, the world’s biggest Buddha statue and most of its giant pandas. But the highlight is the long downhill trek from the summit of Emei Shan mountain, through woodland, past ancient temples and ferocious monkeys. I walked 20 km on the first day to Hongchunping monastery and, though my calves protested at the unyielding thud, thud, thud of tens of thousands of stone steps, it was one of the most delightful days I spent in the whole of China. Mist and snow cleared as I descended into forest so varied and lush that I understood why Unesco was so excited about this place. There are 3,200 plant species on Emei, which is 10 per cent of China’s total: Nanmu trees – tall, straight and flawless, perfect for temple pillars; gingko trees with crescent leaves and medicinal properties; and, above all, bamboo. Great dense swathes cover the hillsides in strands as thin as my finger and as thick as my leg that grow so fast I felt I could see it getting bigger if only I stood still for long enough.

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I saw no monkeys for 19.5 km of that first 20 km, but finally encountered some babies sitting playfully on a fence close to Hongchunping. They were cute and mischievous, of course, but where there are infant monkeys, adults cannot be far away. I turned a corner and there they were. All the monkeys stopped picking fleas from

their neighbours, fixed me with yellow eyes that seemed too small for their big baboon heads, opened their mouths and snarled with great defiant ivory fangs. Worse, the monkeys were sitting on a suspension bridge barring my way; on the other side was the monastery, a pot of rice on the boil, electric blanket warming my bed. I had no choice. Firmly, resolutely and raising my bamboo walking stick above my head, I advanced. A monkey jumped on my back and grabbed a bottle from my rucksack, grinning malevolently as he sat on the bridge’s iron chains with his trophy. But my blood was up. I quickened my pace and opened my throat, shouting a war cry as I banged my stick on the bridge – death or glory. Miraculously, mercifully, the monkeys scattered into the trees, staring resentfully down at me as I continued my long march.

????????? ???sino ? ? file ?? China by train Most of my travels around China were by train. Chinese trains are mostly clean, efficient and comfortable, especially in the top-ofthe-range “soft sleeper” class. Yet even the crisp sheets and cosy beds of soft sleeper are cheap and it’s always a thrill to eat a meal, fall asleep to the clickety-clack of the train wheels and wake next day somewhere entirely new. The cleanest, most efficient train of all trundles all the way to Tibet. It is so pristine and bright that it’s like the hermetically sealed experience of flying but with way more legroom. As we crossed the 5,000m Tanggula Pass, the guard brought round oxygen masks and a health declaration form on which we all confirmed “my health condition can adapt to 3,000m above sea level” like we even knew. Chinese passengers greedily plumbed their masks into the dispensers on the wall and sucked in the O2, but the foreigners on the train ascetically declined to use this aid to comfort since severe altitude headaches and nausea were surely part of the authentic Tibetan experience. I plugged mine in to have a go and couldn’t get it unplugged so spent the rest of the journey with oxygen hissing into the cabin. Qinghai had turned into Tibet when I awoke from my oxygen-enriched sleep next day. A thousand kilometres of this railway line lies at least 4,000m above sea level on a bed of permafrost. It is mindbogglingly remote. Former Chinese premier Zhu Rongji called the railway “an unprecedented project in the history of mankind”, a typically unvarnished government boast that for once wasn’t hyperbole. Arrival in Lhasa made me feel emotional, as it must have done for foreign visitors to this distant and mystical city in centuries past. Pilgrims were prostrating on the road parallel to our rails with tens of miles to go to their destination. And there at last, perched on a rocky outcrop, unmistakably squat and muscular above the rest of the city, was the Potala Palace, a place that had seemed almost mythically remote in the encyclopaedias I had pawed over in my youth as I dreamed of Tibet.

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Chris Taylor’s favourite places in China. 1. Tribal communities, Guizhou: The wooden villages of the Miao and Dong minorities. 2. Tulou houses, Fujian: Ancient Hakka roundhouses in the countryside. 3. Kashgar, Xinjiang: Mosques and markets way out west on the Kazakh border. 4. Qingdao and Qufu, Shandong: German architecture, beer and Confucius’ hometown. 5. Pingyao, Shanxi: Intact Qing-dynasty town with ancient walls. 6. Dandong and Tiger Mountain Wall: The most easterly section of the Great Wall, with views into North Korea. 7. Lushan, Jiangxi: Colonial villas and woodland walks on a mountain (not shown).

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Riding the Dragon by Chris Taylor is available at Dymocks, Swindon’s Books in Tsim Sha Tsui and online at Amazon.com. For details, visit christaylor1968. wordpress.com.

Taylor-made itinerary

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 43

health & beauty

Afterglow Maintain that holiday glow with summer beauty treatments. By Hannah Grogan. Relaxation A slice of pampering paradise in Sha Tin, the Melo Spa’s summer packages are designed to keep you beach-ready – toned, moisturized and smooth all over. Bespoke Fresh ($780) offers a choice of two treatments from a menu that includes waxing, eyebrow shaping, mani-pedi, body polish and leg and foot massage. Melo Purity Experience ($1,480) is a full-body scrub, marine wrap and back massage. And the Melo Rejuvenation Retreat ($1,980) combines a relaxing massage with an antioxidant facial. And all in the comfort of your own suite. Bliss. 5/F, Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Sha Tin, 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, 3723 7684 www.melospa.com.

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www.aerobotshk.com tel: (852) 3484 2680 email: info@aerobotshk.com

44 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

health & beauty

Location Prolong that holiday vibe at the feng shuiinspired I-Spa. The 2.5-hour Summer Retreat Package ($2,470) will help maintain that tan with an aroma bath in the privacy of your own spa suite – soak in those harbour views – followed by a mineral scrub and vitamin C facial. Or go the whole hog and book the full-day experience: five treatments in 4.5 hours, a three-course iHealth lunch poolside and access to the fitness centre and tiered infinity spa pools, which look straight down the harbour. Who needs a holiday? I-Spa InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2721 1211, www.hongkong-ic.intercontinental.com.

Hydration Revive your complexion after a holiday in the sun with a bespoke hydrating facial at Flawless. This hip beauty specialist uses leading products and skilled beauticians and focuses on providing long-term treatment plans. For optimal moisture levels, the one-hour Hydr8 facial ($1,280) uses Medik8’s signature hydrating serum to increase cell hydration, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and tone the contours, with immediately visible results. Readers who purchase a package of five hydrating facials this month will receive a free revitalising face oil (valued at $605). 4/F Sea Bird House, 22-28 Wyndham Street, Central, 2869 5868, www.flawless.hk.com.

Opposite: Melo Spa. From left: an ayurvedic treatment and the terrace at I-Spa; hip decor at Flawless.

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pets Called to heel Recently I was walking five rescue dogs, including a puppy and a blind dog, along the road where I live. All the dogs are friendly and well socialised, but as two are territorial on a section of the road close to home I had them all on leads. We were walking along calmly when the dogs suddenly turned and their hackles started to rise. A small breed dog was running towards us, moving fast and growling with teeth bared and hackles up. I called to its owner to please call his dog back and put it on a lead. The owner ignored me and the dog kept coming. Were my dogs not under control, his probably would not be with us. Refusing to stop and talk to me, the owner marched off shouting that his dog was a small breed and was allowed off lead. This is not the case. Hong Kong law states that no dog of any size is permitted off the leash anywhere unless it is under control and not causing a nuisance to anyone. Dogs over 20kg without AFCD exemption certificates can only

Picture: Trevor Cheng

When is Rover allowed off the lead? Dog behaviourist Hazel Black explains.

be let off the leash in country park areas (under the same terms). Exemption certificate exams take place twice a year and involve a number of obedience and temperament tests; owners must book the test in advance and any dog that fails can re-take the test at a later date. Dogs are hard-wired to react instinctively and quickly when faced with a potential threat

in their territory. This particular small dog ran at my dogs in a challenging, hostile way, off lead on their turf. Not only is this bad doggy etiquette that dogs will correct in an instant given half a chance, but it may have sparked the prey instinct. My dogs were doing their job by barking to protect their pack; as pack leader, I was doing my job by holding them back. At the end of the day, although humankind has long lived alongside domesticated dogs, they remain predatory animals. Lassie does not exist. Hazel Black is the founder of HK Rescue Puppies, www.hkrescuepuppies.com. For details on government pet regulations, visit www.pets.gov.hk.

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Who’s a good dog? Teach your puppy some manners and your older dog new tricks with Hong Kong’s dog trainers. By Rosie Whitehouse. Wish You Were Here Offering a full range of dog services, including international relocations, Wish You Were Here gets rave reviews on local websites. It has two trainers – Mark Peters and Lu. Classes: Private one-to-one dog training anywhere in Hong Kong, including Sai Kung. As well as puppy training, they can sort out all sorts of doggy behavioural problems. Classes can be conducted in English or Cantonese. Contact: 6252 9821, info@wishyouwereherehk. com, www.wishyouwereherehk.com. Sunny Dog Training Sunny Tang trained in the US. He believes good training is as good for the owner as for the dog, promoting understanding and leading not only to happier dog-owner relationships but fewer abandoned dogs. Classes: Sunny offers puppy training and Behaviour Modification Courses for older dogs

on a one-to-one basis in your home. His courses usually involve two sessions of 90 minutes to three hours. In English or Cantonese. Contact: 9732 8472, sunnydogtraining@yahoo.com, www.sunnydogtraining.com. SPCA The big daddy of dog training in Hong Kong runs monthly obedience training courses at its centres in Wan Chai, Kowloon and Sai Kung. Each course starts with a human-only session in Wan Chai, followed by four to six weeks of practical pet-and-owner classes.

Classes: Group and private training, puppy socialisation and basic obedience courses with separate sessions for large dogs (over 10kg) and small dogs. Puppy classes are held in Wan Chai only for puppies under 18 weeks. Intermediate “Clicker” courses are also available to teach your older dog new tricks. Contact: 2232 5567, bt@spca.org.hk, www.spca.org.hk. Address: D.O.G G.O.D, 65 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2792 1535.

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Sai Kung Magazine is currently looking for talented individuals to become members of our team. So if you’re a writer with something to say we want to hear from you! Interested? Think you are a true Sai Kung local with a voice? Contact us now! Send any writing samples or inquiries to writer@fastmedia.com.hk

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classifieds LOCAL PROPERTY Gorgeous Country Home ~ Sai Kung HK$65K Ref~SK495 Rarely Available. Detached Family Home. 4 Double Ensuites, Fully Fitted & Equipped Open-plan Kitchen, Separate Family Room, Maid’s Q. Lawn Garden, Beautiful Mountain Views. C/p, Quiet yet convenient for Transport. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 C-027656

Sai Kung Garden House HK$50K/16.9M Ref~SK035 SOLE AGENT - 3 Bedroom House with Sea Views & Shared Pool in Small Quiet Development. Modern Decor. High Ceilings, Fully Equipped Kitchen, Helpers Q., Lawn Garden, 2 C/p. Convenient for Public Transport. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 C-027656

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TWO BEDROOM APARTMENT TO LET A spacious two bedroom apartment in traditional village in Sha Kok Mei, within walking distance to Sai Kung Town and Sai Kung Academic International School. Rental $10000 pcm. No agent’s fee. Please contact owner for details: wingctse@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 27914682

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Jeanneau Selection 37(11.3 meters) Fast and fun to sail - Handles like a big dinghy. Built 1989 Successful Club Racer Fractional Rigged Racer/Cruiser New mast, rigging and instruments in January 2010 Hardly Used UK Tape Drive Main and 150% Genoa. Low hours engine. Anti-fouled May 2013. Swinging Mooring in Shelter Cove (RHKYC) HK$330,000 ONO Please call 9034 6997

TUITION Mandarin / Cantonese speaking nanny -- available to play with your kids, read them stories and guide the kids to discover the daily life. Mandarin tutors -- available to tutor primary and secondary students, experience in helping students to prepare IGCSE, IB, AL... Please visit CALL-A-TUTOR.COM, or call 2572 8989. Learn Business Mandarin Call Tel: 6013 7827 Nín hao! ˇ 您好！ One on one Or Group mdrin1998@yahoo.com

Jesse Taekwondo & Hapkido Korea Kukkiwon Black-belt 5th Dan International Instructor. Provide One-on-One personal training, Group training & Family classes. www.supra.com.hk/jessetkd Master Chow 9467-7787.

Piano Lesson @ HOME in English/Cantonese by professional and qualified teachers. Annual Recital in Cityhall. Trial lessons available. Visit www.grandpiano.hk for details. ViANNE MUSiC WONDERLAND PRiVATE PiANO LESSONS @ YOUR HOME www.mymusicwonderland.com Experienced tutor offers an inspired & creative lesson for kids, especially aged 2+. STUDENT ANNUAL RECITAL/ EXAMINATION Trial Lesson, Tel:6014 - 9389 / mschanpiano@yahoo.com.

SOUTH OF FRANCE, NIMES Charming family home, with swimming pool, in the South of France FOR SALE. In perfect condition, the house is walking distance from the lovely town to go to the market or go to the bakery to get your fresh bread. Priced at HKD 4.2 Mio, it is a steal and the ideal investment!! The offer will be dealt with on a first come, first serve basis. Please email: (Aubord2013@gmail.com).

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Employment / Recruitment Small SK based company looking for P/T assistant to manage budgets, IT on mac, assist w marketing etc. mon/wed/fri mornings. Fluent cantonese & english and excellent IT skills required. Contact judebailey@me.com.

classifieds SERVICE LOCAL INSURANCE AGENT (BILINGUAL 英語／廣東話) FREE QUOTATIONS ON: HOME (PET) / MAID / MEDICAL/ TRAVEL / MOTOR / CONTRACTOR ALL RISK / LIFE / INVESTMENT CALL ELLIOT: 9545-0283 EMAIL: elliotinsuranceagent@gmail.com COMPUTER SERVICES Microtechhk(HK).COM provides onsite support to day-to-day computer (MAC/WINDOWS) usage since 1992, Call us for any Hardware/software, internet problems, wifi setup, data recovery Reasonable Price 24/7 hotline : 2397 6418. Smiling Winds Landscape & Maintenance If you’re trying to transform your backyard on a budget look no further. We take care of all soft and hard scape garden projects and maintenance. Lawn care, hedge trimming and pruning shrubs and plant care. Paths, patios, walling and fencing. Artificial fishpond, waterfalls. Garden clean up’s and make over’s. All types of garden work. Regular Service or one OFFs. All free no obligation quotations are booked at your convenience. Contact Leo on 6056 9010, 5688 6962 or Mail us at smilingwindslandscape@gmail.com.

motoring www.saikungmotors.com.hk

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2010 Mazda 8 MPV Expat family owned since new. 2.3L 4cyl economy, fully loaded with: pwr doors, sunroof, beige leather int, Ipod, DVD, inc screens for the kids. BLK metallic, 38,000km. The family have relocated to Singapore, this Mazda 8 now needs a new home. Tel 2792 2998 or 9707 8300 contactus@saikungmotors.com.hk

2006 Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Sai Kungs favourite SUV. 2 previous expat owners, very practical, easy to live with motoring. Grey leather int, black ext, key-less entry & sunroof. Looks the business, without breaking the bank. Tel 2792 2998 or 9707 8300 contactus@saikungmotors.com.hk www.saikungmotors.com.hk

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NATIONAL HARBOUR RENOVATIONS Home and office reno upgrades. Plumbing, electrical and handyman services. Call Charles 90851886, info@nationalharbour.com.hk www.nationalharbour.hk. BASKETBALL COACH WANT TO LEARN TO SLAM DUNK? HAVEFUN AND GET FIT? ALL AGES WELCOME! CONTACT: MAX REMINGTON NBA COACHING DIPLOMA. 6808 0547. WELCOME AND LOVE AND SHARING PET(S) GROOMING AND TAKING CARE SERVICES 寵物上門美容及照顧服務婉婉 MOBILE: 6908 4939. EMAIL: ritang923@yahoo.com.hk

Health and Wellbeing YOGA FOR ALL LEVELS Private/Semi-private classes tailored for all levels. Yoga at your own place or studio rental. More info contact Lorraine. Email: lorrainelau1010@yahoo.com. Tel: +852 9171 5149.

2005 Toyota Alphard 3.0 V6 One lady expat owner from new, private use only in HK. The king of people movers. Refined, comfortable, spacious and expected Toyota dependability. Owner has moved to France, the Alphard needs a new home. Tel 2792 2998 or 9707 8300 contactus@saikungmotors.com.hk www.saikungmotors.com.hk

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Yoga with Yoyo Build up a Yogic Body with a Vedic Mind Peaceful environment with High Energy vibrant in Sai Kung Town Email: info@yoyoyoga.net Tel: 9302 3931 Website: www.yoyoyoga.net. Massage @ Home, Hotel Body massage. Our therapists offer mobile outcall service after 7:00pm $700/2hrs & Lai Hing Lok Body Massage Centre. Address: G/F No.24, Main Street, Sai Kung. By Appointment Tel. 6690 3658. Outcall Massage ITEC qualified Holistic Masssge Therapist offering customized treatments in the comfort of your home. $600/2hrs. Pls call or whatsapp 6695 3518 contact Pamela.

2005 BMW M3 SMGII Absolutely stunning example. Complete BMW service books & all receipts since new. Would suit a fastidious buyer who wants a properly maintained M3 that has escaped being molested by the after market tuners. 58,000km verified by BMW. Call us for more info. Tel 2792 2998 or 9707 8300 contactus@saikungmotors.com.hk

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider Stunning example that includes 22 years of mechanical service history since new. Extensive body and interior restoration by present owner of 13 years. 48,000km Turn key, drive away and enjoy! Tel 2792 2998 or 9707 8300 contactus@saikungmotors.com.hk

Leaving Hong Kong House Contents Sale Furniture, electrical goods, household items, plants for sale. Sha Kok Mei, Sai Kung. Phone 2791 1644 / 6380 6171. From 3 to 17 August.

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the ultimate guide to sai kung Social, Sports & Equipment

Fashion & Beauty

LEE PARKER Golf Coaching

Bronze Mobile Spray Tanning 6234 8594 bronzemobilespraytanning@yahoo.com

9126 1413 | lee@theoldgolfpro.com Asia Pacific Soccer Schools 2385 9677 | www.apsoccerhk.com Blue Sky Sports Club 2791 0806 | info@bluesky-sc.com www.bluesky-sc.com Cambridge Weight Plan Hong Kong 9618 1777 / 9045 5942 www.cambridgeweightplan.hk Everfine Membership Services Limited 2174 7880 | enquiry@evergolf.com.hk www.evergolf.com.hk Impact Fitness 6385 0304 | www.impactfitness.com.hk Imran Cricket Academy 2575 3400 / 9745 2700 imran@imranacademy.com www.imranacademy.com Outdoor Fitness 9043 4674 | www.outdoorfitness.hk dayle@outdoorfitness.hk Outward Bound Hong Kong matt@outwardbound.org.hk www.outwardbound.org.hk Pilates Plus 9756 1659 | brubar@netvigator.com The Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen 2657 8899 | enquiries@cchly.com www.cchly.com Sai Kung Stingrays www.saikungstingrays.org Weight Watchers 2813 0814 | kmahjoubian@weightwatchers.com.hk www.weightwatchers.com.hk

Toys, Accessories & Kids’ Parties

Bumps to Babes

2552 5000 (Ap Lei Chau Main Store) 2522 7112 (Pedder Building Branch) www.bumpstobabes.com Babies R US 2287 1788 | hk@babiesrus@toyrus.com www.babiesrus.com.hk Cariad Apparel Company Limited 3689 9416 | info@cariad.com.hk EEK Toy Shop 3487 3053 Hazel Ltd 53161456 | saleshazel@biznetvigator.com www.mcl-sources.com Robstep 3622 1112 sales@robstep.hk | www.robstep.hk Rumple and Friends www.rumpleandfriends.com Tiny Footprints 2552 2466 | www.tinyfootprints.com

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Sense of Touch 2791 2278 | ask@senseoftouchhk.com www.senseoftouch.com.hk Tala’s Hair & Beauty Centre 2335 1694 | talashair@biznetvigator.com www.talashairandbeautycentre.com

Multimedia

The Reading Room (Sai Kung)

5 Tai Po Tsai, Clearwater Bay Road, Sai Kung, New Territories | 9199 5900 seasidereadingroom@gmail.com Aerobots Hong Kong 3484 2680 | info@aerobotshk.com www.aerobotshk.com

Financial Services Financial Planning Excellence info@fpehk.com | www.fpehk.com HFS Asset Management Limited 2511 8337 | drb@hfs.com.hk | www.hfs.com.hk Kwiksure 3113 2112 | christian@kwiksure.com www.kwiksure.com

Events HKTDC Food Expo | Aug 15 - 19 Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre 1830 670 | www.hkfoodexpo.com/public/40 Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair | Sept 4 - 8 Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre 1830 668 | www.hktdc.com/fair/hkwatchfair-en/ Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour Aug 25 - 25 | AsiaWorld - Expo, Arena 3128 8288 | www.cirquedusoleil.com www.hkticketing.com

Home Box Design

2573 3323 info@boxdesign.com.hk www.boxdesign.com.hk Best United Eng. Ltd. / Lawnings, Roll Shutter & Insect Screen 2344 9028 | info@bestunited.com.hk www.bestunited.com.hk Brooks Thompson Ltd 2851 3665 | iqbalhk@netvigator.com Chez Uno 2791 9662 / 2723 8990 | www.chezuno.com Indo Handyman 2578 1865 | sales@indohandyman.hk JCAW Consultants 2524 9988 | jcawltd@biznetvigator.com Lift Lifestyle International Ltd 3907 0386 | liftlifestyle@gmail.com www.liftlifestyle.com Marco Electrician, Plumber, House painting, Air Conditioning 6190 8051 | marco_yeung000@hotmail.com National Harbour Renovations 90851886 | charles@nationalharbour.com.hk www.nationalharbour.hk Patio Mart 2555 8988 | patio@kh-group.com www.patiomart.com.hk The Fabulous Towel Co Ltd www.fabuloustowelco.com The Handyman HK 9268 0514 / 9871 5508 thehandymanhk@gmail.com TREE 2791 2802 | www.tree.com.hk Wicka Designs Limited 2422 0885 | enquiry@wickadesigns.com www.wickadesigns.com Wofu Deco 2768 8428 | info@wofudeco.com.hk www.wofudeco.com.hk

Pets & Vets

Community & Health

Animal Behaviour Vet Practice 9618 2475 | cynthia@petbehaviourhk.com www.petbehaviourhk.com

Annerley — Maternity And Early Childhood Professionals www.annerley.com.hk

Best Friends Veterinary Hospital 2792 8555

Resurrection Church 2358 3232 | www.resurrection.org.hk

Homevet 9860 5522 | pets@homevet.com.hk www.homevet.com.hk

Boating

Ferndale Kennel 2792 4642 | boarding@ferndalekennels.com www.ferndalekennels.com

Explorer Motor Yachts (HK) Ltd 9261 0785 | hk@explorermotoryachts.com www.explorermotoryachts.com V2boats 9122 2126 | conrad@v2boats.hk | www.v2boats.hk

Pets Central 2792 0833 | www.pets-central.com Vet2Pet 6999 1003 | vet2pet@yahoo.com www.vet2pet.com.hk

directory Education

Food & Beverage

Education Tutti Music

2176 4028 tuttimusic.tko@gmail.com www.tmusic.com.hk

Anastassia’s Art House 2104 3303 / 2812 6465 stanleyplaza@arthouse-hk.com repulsebay@arthouse-hk.com www.arthouse-hk.com

Mills International Preschool 2717 6336 | www.millsinternational.com.hk My Music Wonderland 6014 9389 | mschanpiano@yahoo.com www.mymusicwonderland.com Panda Pottery 6439 2387 / 6041 9613 www.pandapottery.com Playball Hong Kong info@playballhk.com | www.playballhk.com

Anfield School admin@anfield.edu.hk | www.anfield.edu.hk

Quest Study Skills 2690 9117 | www.queststudyskills.com

Antsmart Learning Centre / Playgroup, Math 2335 1261 | tangfrancis@hotmail.com www.playgroup.com.hk

Sai Kung Tutors 5321 4400 | info@saikungtutors.com www.saikungtutors.com

Busy Bees Kindergarten busybees@ust.hk | http://ihome.ust.hk/~busybees

Savannah College of Art and Design 2253 8044 | www.scad.edu/hongkongsummer

Bricks 4 Kidz 2791 0007 | saikung@bricks4kidz.hk www.bricks4kidz.hk

SKIP 2791 7354 | www.skip.edu.hk

Concordia International School 2789 9890 | office@cihs.edu.hk www.cihs.edu.hk Craft Hour 6757 2564 | crafthourasia@gmail.com www.crafthourasia.com Easy English for Kids Limited 3487 3053 | www.eek.com.hk ESF Educational Services Ltd 9131 6745 | ben.costello@esf.org.hk www.esf.org.hk Focus on Film 3975 1020 | www.focusonfilmhk.com

Sunshine House International Pre school 2358 3803 | www.sunshinehouse.com.hk The Edge Learning Center 2783 7100 / 2972 2555 info@theedge.com.hk | www.theedge.com.hk

Expert-Transport & Relocations Warehouse 2566 4799 | www.expertmover.hk

Real-Estate & Hotels Hong Kong Gold Coast Residences

1 Castle Peak Road, Castle Peak Bay, N.T., HK | 2457 0789 galycowen@sino.com www.goldcoast.com.hk

Tam Amodio Properties

Hong Kong +852 5190 3041 tam@tamamodio.com www.tamamodio.com

Kellet School admissions@kellettschool.com www.kelletschool.com Leapfrog Kindergarten 2791 1540 / 6413 8247 admin@leapfrogkindergarten.org www.leapfrogkindergarten.org Les Petits Lascars 2526 8892 / 2526 8666 www.lespetitslascars.com Lighthouse Playroom 2791 2918 | info@lighthouseplayroom.com www.lighthouseplayroom.com

Paisano’s Pizzeria 2791 4445 | www.paisanos.com.hk Steamers 2792 6991 | gm@steamerssaikung.com http://steamerssaikung.com/ Winerack 2433 9929 | www.winerack.com.hk

Other Services Biocycle 3575 2575 | info@biocycle.hk www.biocycle.com.hk

Dave’s Wholesale Cars 9889 6409 | 9272 9166 | www.dwc.hk

Sai Kung Motors 2792 2998 | www.saikungmotors.com.hk

Jumpstart Mandarin Learning Centre 2791 4838 | jumpstart@netvigator.com www.jumpstartmlc.com

Hebe One O One 2335 5515 | info@101.com.hk www.hebe101.com

Crown Relocations 2636 8388 | hongkong@crownrelo.com www.crownrelo.com/hongkong

Hong Kong Academy 2655 1111 | www.hkacademy.edu.hk

ITS 3188 3946 | jennifer.c@tuition.com.hk

Colour Brown Coffee 2791 7128 | shop.colourbrown.com.hk

Christian Environmental Health 2370 9236 | a-s-a-p@ceh.com.hk www.ceh.com.hk

German Swiss International School 2961 4008 | www.gsis.edu.hk

International College Hong Kong Hong Lok Yuen 2658 6935 | info@hlyis.edu.hk www.hlyis.edu.hk

Units 202-204, Lai Sun Yuen Long Centre, 27 Wang Yip St East, Yuen Long, N.T. Hong Kong | 2555 6200 fish@south-stream-seafoods.com www.south-stream-seafoods.com

Transport & Travel Services

Hebe Haven Yacht Club 2719 0926 | sailadmin@hhyc.org.hk www.hhyc.org.hk

Hong Kong International Tennis Academy 9048 2810 | lea.lai@hkita.com | www.hkita.com

South Stream Seafoods

OKAY.com

2102 0888 | support@okay.com www.okay.com Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Shatin www.hongkong.shatin.hyatt.com Vegas Suites 3963 7888 | www.vegasuites.com.hk

Federal Elite Consultants Ltd. 3568 4691 | info@federalelite.com Island Property Consultancy Ltd 6256 4353 King Kong Ping Pong info@kingkong-pingpong.com www.kingkong-pingpong.com Nature’s Harvest 2723 3126 | www.naturesharvest.com.hk Perfect Party Hong Kong 6770 5591 | laura@perfectpartyhk.com Pete Kelly - Musician 9477 0669 | www.petekelly.com.au Professional Wills Limited 2561 9031 | www.profwills.com Relosmart 2561 3030 | enquiry@relosmart.asia www.relosmart.asia Roomplus 2331 7331 / 2331 7333 | www.roomplus.com.hk SameButDifferent Silver 6626 5424 | samebutdifferent.silver@gmail.com www.samebutdifferent.co Sum Hing Carton Box Factory info@boxx.hk | www.boxx.hk

Get listed call 2776 2772 email marketing@saikung.com WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 57

on patrol

top cop

Join the herd Tim Sharpe rethinks the police response to feral cattle and offers summer security tips. Feral cows are a well-known and much-loved feature of Sai Kung, where many people enjoy seeing them wandering free. Dedicated volunteers at the Sai Kung Buffalo Watch (SKBW) assist in preserving this part of Sai Kung life and the police have strong links with SKBW, the Agriculture & Fisheries Conservation Department (AFCD) and the SPCA. Such is the jungle drumming in Sai Kung, these volunteers are often at a stray cow incident before the police. Feral cows have been in the news following traffic accidents in Sai Kung and on Lantau in which several cows died. A few weeks ago, a vehicle on Tai Mong Tsai Road ran into a pregnant cow, breaking its leg. The incident was witnessed by a jogger who was so close that she was sprayed by glass from the vehicle’s damaged headlights. The driver reportedly got out of the car to look at the damage but drove off when the jogger whipped out her iPhone to take a photo. He has yet to be identified. The situation was chaotic, with the traffic building up and concerned citizens milling around the injured cow on the roadside. When the heavens opened, it was like Armageddon. I have a confession to make: from all accounts, the police’s initial responders were less than impressive. Without going into detail, they could have done better in taking measures to reduce the stress to the injured animal. The situation was soon rectified, but the incident went on for hours owing to the AFCD vet-on-call being delayed by the atrocious weather. Tragically, the injured cow had to be euthanised. Next day I held a meeting with all interested parties to ensure such incidents would be better

handled in future. I have since sat down with the SKBW and AFCD and we are currently hammering out guidelines. If you see a cow in distress, please inform the police and contact Sai Kung Buffalo Watch via Facebook, email skbuffalowatch@gmail.com, or phone 9781 4703, 6531 8215 or 6773 9907. Safe and sound? Summertime and the livin’ is easy – especially for the criminal fraternity with housebreaking on their minds. Many people in Sai Kung go away for weeks if not months in summer leaving their homes empty and vulnerable. It is certainly obvious to officers on patrol when a place is unoccupied: letters stuffed in the mailbox, leaves piling up and an ever-deepening layer of grime on cars parked out front. The last thing you want on coming back is to find your home victimised and our boys in blue paying you a visit. The best tip I can give you is be part of the local community; inform your neighbours of your movements and ideally give one of them a key and ask them to keep an eye on things. Also please leave your contact details with them so that, in the worstcase scenario, you can be informed. Don’t advertise your holiday on social media sites. Although, I do not believe many

photo competiton Submit your shot Here at the Sai Kung Magazine office, we love receiving beautiful pictures of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay from our readers. Each month we publish our favourite. To enter, simply email your best shots of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay, along with a brief description, to photo@fastmedia.com.hk. This month’s winner: Sheila Peralta took this photo of beautiful Sai Kung during an early-morning hike. A great way to start the day.

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illegal immigrants with a second career in burglary are Facebook users, there are dodgy characters in Sai Kung who take interest in this information. My pet peeve is those standalone safes shaped like microwave ovens. Burglars must rub their hands in glee on finding them: they do not have to waste time looking for your valuables, as you have conveniently stored them all in one place that can be carried off or opened there and then. Judging from the evidence I have seen, these safes are relatively easy to prise open. If you must use a safe, place it somewhere more imaginative than in a wardrobe, where they all seem to be. If you’re going away for a lengthy sojourn, my tip would be to deposit your valuables around the house; say in kids’ toys, the larder or a coat pocket. The trick on returning home, of course, is remembering where you put them...

Tim Sharpe was the Police DVC for Sai Kung until his recent promotion to become the head of administration at Kwai Chung Police Station.

shoot for it