Sai Kung Magazine March 2013 by Hong Kong Living Ltd

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The really useful magazine march 2013

PEOPLE

VINES IN SAI KUNG

6 Snapped! The social side of Sai Kung.

16 Mind your manners Stephen Vines on rude drivers and worse diners.

HEALTH & BEAUTY 32 Getting the cane A Mandarin Oriental massage, plus the old town’s manicure Angel.

MARKETPLACE 40 Your guide to shops and services Cool stuff to buy and do.

THE PLANNER 8 Happening in March Rugby Sevens, Easter and other reasons to celebrate.

FEATURE 18 Smog city There’s something in the air (but not in the water).

LETTERS

TRAVEL 34 What’s up, petal? Cherry blossom-spotting in Japan.

BIRD AT MY WINDOW 45 Azure-winged magpie David Diskin on Hong Kong birds.

HIKES

11 Have your say Views from Hiram’s Highway. NEWS 12 What’s going on? Waldorf school for Clearwater Bay, Sai Kung’s world-class dancers, Jackie Peers sails into the blue.

EATING 17 Clean greens Where to get organic veggies. Plus a seafood lasagna recipe.

OUTDOORS EDUCATION 26 Inside Hong Kong Academy The gen on Sai Kung’s new international school.

LOCAL 14 The great boar hunt Why armed men were on the loose in Nam Shan.

36 Tolo tombolo Pete Spurrier visits a fishing village on a spit.

FAMILY 31 Easter camps for kids Holiday activities.

38 Flying high How to kiteboard.

CLASSIFIEDS 46 Loads of random useful local stuff

ULTIMATE GUIDE 48 All you need to know Numbers that make life easier.

PETS 40 Ritz for Fritz Holiday homes for pets. Plus Sally Andersen on the problems with pure breeds.

ON PATROL 50 Ahoy matey! Tim Sharpe faces down the drunks and offers tips for safe boating.

“Never wrestle with pigs. You both get dirty and the pig likes it” – George Bernard Shaw

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people Sai Kung Lunar New Year.

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Photos: Hannah Grogan.

say cheese

Share your event photos with us at photo@fastmedia.com.hk Get snapping! WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 5

planner

MAR 9-23

3 Artists, 3 Perspectives of Hong Kong

Joint exhibition by local artists Sascha Camille Howard, Gary Yeung and Francis Walker. Sai Kung Gallery, 2/F, 14A1 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2792 3939, saikung.gallery@gmail.com.

Feb 28-Mar 2 Hong Kong Masters

Elite show jumping featuring the world’s top 25 riders and a programme of horse clinics, photo shoots and meet-and-greet opportunities. AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau. Tickets $150-$450 from www.cityline.com, 2111 5333.

Feb 21-Mar 22 Hong Kong Arts Festival The city’s premier performing-arts event attracts world-class opera, theatre, music and dance. For details and highlights, visit www.hk.artsfestival.org.

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Mar 2 CWS City Challenge

Teams of two-five people in an Amazing Race around Hong Kong’s hidden gems. Organised by Urban Discovery for Child Welfare Scheme (CWS) to raise funds for children in Nepal. 2pm-5pm, starting at Hollywood Road Park, Central. Enter at www.cwshk.org, 2526 8810.

Mar 5 Adam Lambert Live The American Idol runner-up returns to Hong Kong. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $590-$790 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Mar 7 SAI KUNG SAMPLER

The monthly pop-up market at Steamers, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991.

Mar 7 Agua Plus Pub Quiz

Test the grey matter in five categories. 8pm, 72 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2791 2030.

Mar 10 Mother's Day (UK) Treat her right, kids.

happening in march Mar 15 Irish NIGHT

Celebrate St Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day early with live Irish music and Irish dancing by the Sai Kung-based troupe that will represent Hong Kong at the upcoming World Irish Dance Association Championships. 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991.

Mar 10 Outward Bound Adventure Race

Grab your trainers and form a team to take part in the 12th annual 14km Outward Bound Adventure Race. Starts 8am (Elite route) and 8:30 am (Challenge route), in Causeway Bay. Register at www.outwardbound.org.hk/ar.

Mar 16 Bike Hash #2

Cyclists of Sai Kung unite for a picturesque and sociable ride around our gorgeous countryside. Bring your own bike or rent one for $120. Gather 11am (for 11.30am departure) at Sun Ping Bicycle, Sai Kung. Gunpowderplod@ gmail.com or call Guy Shirra on 9307 2041.

Mar 11-22 International Young Readers Festival

Award-winning literary festival for children, including storytelling and meet-the-author sessions with Luka Lesson, Jan Latta, Andy Briggs and more. Venues across Hong Kong. Details at www.youngreadersfestival.org.hk.

Mar 16 sailing centre open day

Enjoy a free test sail, meet the team and take part in mini races. All welcome. Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Pak Sha Wan, hhyc.org.hk.

Mar 17-Apr 2 Hong Kong International Film Festival

World-class festival screening more than 280 films from 50-plus countries in 11 venues. For full programme, visit hkiff.org.hk.

Mar 17 St Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Down a Guinness, kiss a leprechaun.

Mar 22 Russell Peters Live

Stand-up comedy from the world-famous Canadian. AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau. Tickets $488-$1,088 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

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planner Mar 22 CNCF Ladies’ Long Lunch

Food, drink, fun and games with handsome rugby players (think catwalks and catcalls) in aid of the Christina Noble Children’s Foundation. Ladies only – bring your cheque books for the silent auction. Hong Kong Jockey Club, Happy Valley, www.cncf.org.hk, 2832 2186.

Mar 31 Music Festival Easter Sunday Matinee

Following its successful 2010 performance, the HK Medical Association Orchestra returns to the Australian International School Hong Kong to perform Animal Stories, a mixture of music and storytelling. English-language show at 4.45pm. Contact Dr. Charles Wong, 8106 7330, or email chuck@wongsworld.org.

Mar 31 Easter Sunday Bunnies, eggs and church services.

Mar 22-24 Hong Kong Rugby Sevens

Three days of beer drinking, bad singing, uncoordinated dancing, fancy dress, streakers (maybe) and awesome rugger. Hong Kong Stadium, So Kon Po, Causeway Bay, www.hksevens.com.

Book now Apr 13 Christian Action 3-Legged Charity Walk

Join in a three-legged race for charity with all proceeds going to help orphans in Qinghai. 9am-1pm, Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club. Register by March 31, by calling 2716 8861 or emailing mandy. leung@christian-action.org.hk. Deadline March 31, 2013.

Apr 18 ArtWalk

Hong Kong’s biggest arty party. Tickets and details at www.hongkongartwalk.com.

Apr 19-28 Dirty Dancing

Baby and Johnny burn up the stage in a live production of the 80s movie classic. Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui. Tickets $395-$995 from www.cityline.com.

If you have an event in Sai Kung, please email the details to editor@saikung.com

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letters

have your say

Take a bus Regarding traffic flow on Hiram’s Highway: The only long-term, sustainable answer is an MTR extension. Your correspondent complains that it took him more than an hour to travel 4km on the current two-lane highway. Basic mathematics dictates that all else being equal, a four-lane highway will allow him to drive at 8km/h, which I doubt would satisfy him. Research further shows this advantage will quickly disappear as more cars move onto the road to take advantage of the extra lanes. In the short term, he should leave his car at home and take advantage of Hong Kong's world-beating public transport. And if enough people followed his example, perhaps we wouldn't need the MTR line after all. Andrew To

Less is more In respect of Stage 1 of the Hiram’s Highway expansion, the Friends of Sai Kung (FSK) supports the dualling of the top of Hiram’s Highway near Clear Water Bay Road and improved access to Ho Chung. It is against the pointless dualling up to Pak Wai and totally against the mooted Stage 2 multi-lane highway into Sai Kung Town. FSK supports IMMEDIATE traffic flow and safety improvements: urban clearway, lay-bys for all public service vehicle stopping, right-turn lanes for all side roads and developments, pedestrian underpasses or footbridges, park-and-ride facilities just north and south of town with electric shuttle bus services and pedestrianisation of Sai Kung town with heavy vehicle bans on weekends and public holidays. These measures would very quickly benefit everyone and inconvenience no one and would cost a damn sight less. Full details can be found at www.friendsofsaikung.org. Guy Shirra, Chairman, Friends of Sai Kung People not cars I hope the planners will take an holistic approach to finding the most efficient and effective way to move people in and out of Sai Kung and not just focus on moving cars. Improvements to Hiram's Highway are to be welcomed but – unless some thought must be given to prioritizing bus services – they will only result in more cars coming into Sai Kung, increasing the chaos and congestion in the town. Nick Leach

Editor’s note. To encourage people -– especially tourists and day trippers – to use public transport, we are creating a detailed public transport page on saikung.com.

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

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news

Sai Kung dance team in world championship

Congratulations to Sai Kung-based Irish dance school Echoes of Erin. A team from the school has been invited to participate in the 2013 World Irish Dancing Association’s World and European Championship in Germany on April 5-7. Founded five years ago by Sai Kung resident Catriona Newcombe, three adults and 12 children aged six to 16 years – eight of whom also live in Sai Kung – will compete in more than seven separate dance competitions. “Since we were invited, we have been full steam ahead,” Newcombe said. “We practice up to five times a week, sometimes for four hours straight.” See them in action at a fundraising event at Steamers on March 15. Dubbed “An Irish Night”, the food, drink and dance begin at 8pm. 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung.

Green turtle released

An adult female green turtle accidentally caught in a fishing net off Tai Po has been released into the wild. The green turtle, officially listed as an endangered species, is the only turtle species known to breed in Hong Kong – at Sham Wan on Lamma Island. Following a two-month period of recovery with veterinarians at Ocean Park, the turtle was tagged with a microchip and satellite transmitter and returned to the sea.

Yacht club threat?

The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club (RHKYC) at Shelter Cove, Sai Kung, is one of 18 sites used by private members’ clubs that could lose its lease under new government scrutiny of “underused” facilities. According to a report in the SCMP, clubs whose licenses expire will have to justify the renewal of their leases, otherwise the land may revert to the government for future use as public open space, housing or other purposes. The lease for the Shelter Cove site expires in October, 2014. All three RHKYC sites, including Kellett Island in Causeway Bay and Middle Island, are being placed under government scrutiny, along with a golf course at Fanling, a Girl Guide camp in Sheung Shui, and a youth hostel in Plover Cove.

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Waldorf school for Clearwater Bay

Parents and staff at Garden House Kindergarten in Clearwater Bay are in the process of setting up a new primary school in the area. Due to open in September, with a P1 class of 20 students, Forest House International Waldorf School will follow the alternative Waldorf educational philosophy based on the thinkings of early 20th-century scientist, architect, philosopher and educator Rudolf Steiner. “We will be taking applications shortly, and will be situated at a temporary site for around three years until we receive government approval for a permanent site in the area,” said school spokesperson Cannie Bennett. Like more than 1,000 Waldorf schools worldwide, the non-profit international school will aim to nurture all capacities of the child – physical, emotional, intellectual, aesthetic, moral and spiritual. Subjects such as art, music, gardening and foreign languages are central to Waldorf learning; for example, all children learn to play the recorder and knit. From class three, all children learn a stringed instrument and at least two foreign languages. No grades are given to discourage competitiveness and there is no rote learning from text books. Television and other electronic devices are strongly discouraged. Monthly fees will be $8,000-$10,000 a month, and administrators are currently seeking charitable donations to help with setting-up costs. Find out more at an open day on March 16. For details, visit www.waldorf.edu.hk.

news at the Calayan Islands, where we hope to view the humpback whales that gather in spring. From there we'll wind south and then east towards New Zealand. There are quite a few islands on the way – Borneo, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomons, Vanuatu and New Caledonia etc. That's the plan, but we'll take it one step at a time. Any worries about the journey? Of course! I've never done anything like this in my life. It will really test us. I'm worried about how Fergus, our dog, will get on. Jackie's boat, Brigadoon, at anchor.

Anchors aweigh

Jackie Peers, our former hiking columnist, is sailing into the blue. You are sailing back home to New Zealand. Congratulations. It’s been a dream of ours for a long time to sail the slow way home from Hong Kong to New Zealand. It’s a now or never kind of thing. How did you prepare? Our yacht Brigadoon (a 45-foot yawl) arrived in

Hong Kong five years ago, and we have been quietly preparing and learning ever since. We have cast our pick into most of Hong Kong’s alluring bays and spent a lot of time on the water. Hebe Haven Yacht Club has been key. I can't think of anywhere that aspiring yachties could get more help, encouragement and friendship. Where are you going first? As with most sailboats leaving Hong Kong, our first stop will be the Philippines. We hope to have a bit of a rest up after all the work getting ready. We're going to start right up the very north,

We are going to miss you, Jackie. Will you miss us, just a bit? Oh yes. There are hundreds of things we'll miss, from steaming ha gao to the cheery "cho sahn"s of elderly hikers on the trail. Sai Kung has been at the heart of our experience. We wouldn't live anywhere else. And, most important, we'll miss the friends we've made. As the Maori people of New Zealand say: He tengata, he tengata, he tengata. It is people, it is people, it is people. Any plans to drop anchor permanently? We're very keen to spend some time with the grandchildren – the third was born last month, the fourth is on the way – and to catch up with friends. But settle down? Who knows what the future will bring.

“Did we miss anything?” The most important thing to me? Is to have a smooth and worry-free relocation “In some of my other experiences, relocation companies do not always understand the stresses and strains of moving. My experience with Crown was great, and I must say that of all the aspects of this relocation, dealing with Crown was actually the easiest thing I did. Thank you again for the help.” ~Taipei to Hong Kong

Crown service offerings include: • International & Domestic Shipment • Storage, Airfreight • Transit Insurance • Pet & Car Transfers • Immigration & Legalization • Settling-In

Tel: (852) 2636 8388 hongkong@crownrelo.com crownrelo.com/hongkong

Go knowing Relo ad_SaikungSS_190x120_expat.indd 1

9/18/2012 5:55:33 PM

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local Senior Consultant Editor Jane Steer jane@saikung.com Managing Editor William Whitaker william@fastmedia.com.hk

Up in arms

Why armed wild boar hunters are raising hackles in Nam Shan village. By William Whitaker.

Deputy Editor Hannah Grogan 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 Traffic Coordinator Cecile Chui cecile@fastmedia.com.hk Classifieds Prudence Chik prudence@fastmedia.com.hk Accounts Manager Clara Chan accounts@fastmedia.com.hk Publisher Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk This month’s contributors Kawai Wong Carolynne Dear Pete Spurrier Stephen Vines Tim Sharpe David Diskin Sally Andersen Joyce Chan Joshua Kindler Freddie Ho 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.

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Quiet, suburban Nam Shan village, near Sai Kung, is the last place you would expect to see masked gunmen. Which is why the appearance of five men carrying large rifles at dusk on January 28 shocked residents, who had failed to notice small posters that explained their presence. They were members of the Hong Kong Wild Pig Club and had government authority to hunt one or a small group of boar that had sparked four separate complaints of “persistent damage” to turf. Like most animals, wild boar (Sus scrofa) are not particularly aggressive. But they can grow to about 2m long and weigh about 200kg, and will attack if they feel threatened. Add a pair of tusks to adult male boars, and it is clear why the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) consider them potential public safety hazards. According to Diana Wong of the AFCD, all boar-related activities are coordinated by the department. Generally, the AFCD considers that "pigs seen in the wild, if not causing nuisance or hazard to humans, should be left undisturbed”, she says. “When a complaint related to wild pigs is received, the AFCD will conduct site investigations and advise the complainants to take preventative measures as far as is practicable.” These measures may include erecting fences or installing floodlights. Authorizing a hunt, which is the only circumstance under which individuals with rifles may roam the Hong Kong countryside, is a last resort, she said. “Among the 190 wild pig nuisance complaints received in

2012, more than 60 per cent were handled without the need of a hunting exercise.” However, the manner in which the Nam Shan Village hunt was conducted has ruffled feathers. “It was dusk when I came around the corner and saw a man with a mask carrying a large gun. My heart was in my mouth,” said one long-time Nam Shan resident, who asked not to be named owing to the nature of village politics. Apparently, many residents phoned the Sai Kung police department in alarm that evening and the hunt was eventually called off without a shot being fired. “The safety precautions (although in line with the current requirement) were insufficient for this location,” wrote Friends of Sai Kung (FSK) vice-president Karina O’Carroll in an open letter to the AFCD. “In this specific residential area, the use of firearms is a poor choice for the population control of wild boar.” She told Sai Kung Magazine that residents were stunned to discover permission had been granted for a hunt. “Once we had established what was happening we were shocked at the lack of proper barricading and the fact that children, dogs, cars and public buses were still passing the firing area in very close proximity, while these men could

have been firing,” she said. “We are highly concerned about the presence of men running around in the dark, potentially firing into bushes and trees with a row of housing behind the line of fire.” Trapping animals with snares or boxes is largely illegal in Hong Kong to stem black market trade in wildlife. But O’Carroll argues that such traps could be more humane in certain regulated circumstances, after which the animal could be euthanised or tranquillized for relocation. Following a discussion with FSK, Tim Sharpe of the Sai Kung Police department said things may be about to change. “We are currently discussing enhancing our protocols with regard to boarhunting operations in conjunction with the AFCD,” he said.

Boar facts

• 2 wild pig

hunting teams in Hong Kong • Boar hunting used to be a police responsibility with a volunteer team based at the now defunct Village Patrol Unit. Now it is handled largely by ex-AFCD and expolice officers, all volunteers. • 22 wild pig complaints received in January 2013 • 190 wild pig complaints in 2012, 40 per cent of which led to hunting exercises. • 3,370 licensed firearms in Hong Kong in January 2013. • 11 new firearms licenses were issued in 2012 (only 4 were issued in 2011).

got beans?

A cup of cheer

From left: Coffee farmers in East Timor; brewing a $298 cup of coffee; a civet cat.

Have a coffee, help a village.

Coffee luwak is a drink like no through supporting natural other. It is the coffee equivalent of and sustainable industry fine wine, a full-bodied flavour from and aiming to “add value the mountains of East Timor that to nature”. will set you back a whopping $298 But luwak is not for the a cup at Colour Brown in Sai Kung. faint of heart. Its unique Making the price more palatable is production gives the coffee the knowledge that 100 per cent of its remarkable taste and the proceeds go to the village that smooth flavour. produces it. With neither Commonly known as civet or Hummingfish nor Colour cat-poop coffee, it is made from ripe Brown taking a cent from Hummingfish founder, Daniel J. Groshong berries that have passed through the sales, this means all the digestive tract of a civet cat. proceeds from the coffee “Coming from the arabica bean, the coffee luwak sales will be going directly back to the has a smooth flavour with little to no acidity, village in Laclubar, into its community, future unlike other coffees,” says Daniel J. Groshong, development and sustainability. Sai Kung-based photojournalist and founder of “Our only interest is in the environment, Hummingfish, the organisation behind Maubere and not in profit,” Groshong says. “We need Mountain Coffee. to change, we can’t continue to leave Hummingfish, a non-profit Hong Kongscorched earth and not concern ourselves registered charity, is based on one simple with the impact.” mantra: to save the environment. It does this Before 2010, few people had heard of

coffee luwak but in the last few years its popularity has grown exponentially in the coffeedrinking world. With this increase in demand has come a cruel industry that sees civet cats placed in cages and force fed on coffee berries to artificially deliver the goods. But unlike many of its civet coffee rivals, Maubere Mountain Coffee comes from a 100 per cent natural source. The mammals responsible for delivering the coffee beans are all free range, thriving on the berries of organic coffee plants found within their natural habitat. Having carefully designed a process to maximise the flavour of the coffee beans and enhance your drinking experience, the baristas at Colour Brown know what they're doing. But with a limited stock of coffee luwak available until the next harvest, try it soon before it’s all gone. Colour Brown, 34-36 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, 2791 7128, info@colourbrown.com, www.colourbrown.com, www.hummingfish.org.

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vines in sai kung

stephen says...

Mind your manners

Who’s less courteous, drivers or people on iDevices? For Stephen Vines, the jury is out.

It’s driving me mad It’s a fair bet, given its location, that Sai Kung has a higher proportion of drivers than most parts of Hong Kong. I drive a lot and have become increasingly dismayed and frustrated by the practices of fellow road users. What, for example, is so difficult to understand about a two-lane road? Surely the right-hand lane is for faster vehicles and the left-hand lane is reserved for those going more slowly. Not so in these parts, where drivers dawdle in the faster lane, overtaking takes place in the left-hand lane and some drivers simply hog the middle of the road, trying to occupy both lanes. Then there’s the great mystery of signalling. How often have I had to slam on the brakes because the vehicle in front has suddenly slowed to turn without giving any indication? Almost as bad, but rather more alarming, are the idiots who think it clever to use hazard warning lights when they turn so you have no idea what direction they are likely to go. Meanwhile the practice of giving way to vehicles approaching from the right is often ignored at roundabouts and, seemingly, at every other possible opportunity. Even if some drivers are determined to ignore the elementary rules of the road, why do they have to be so damn rude? How often have I slowed to allow a vehicle to turn into a major road and not received the smallest acknowledgment? As for the concept of giving way, well, you can be pretty sure minibus and taxi drivers will never give way, even though they are supposed to be professionals. Even worse,

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I have seen emergency vehicles obstructed by drivers who seem to think their flashing lights are for decoration. Cyclists are another problem, particularly in Sai Kung, lamentably with fatal consequences. Some travel in large groups, which appears to offer a sense of entitlement to fill the entire road. Others are faced with careless motorists who either do not see them or pretend not to do so as they brush perilously close.

More alarming are the idiots who think it clever to use hazard warning lights when they turn. How about iManners In case anyone thinks this column has not whined enough, let’s spend a minute or two contemplating how technology is affecting courtesy, now that almost everyone in Hong Kong is armed with an iPhone, iPad or other iDevice. Sometimes you see entire families sitting around restaurant tables peering intently at these gadgets and completely ignoring each other. Out on the streets people walk around so preoccupied with these things they think nothing of banging into you. Is speech dying out, I wonder? Simple conversation is being replaced with text messages and new apps that make it possible to communicate with several people at once, turning time-wasting into a wholesale exercise. I know, I know, it’s time I got with the programme – but, frankly, I don’t like the programme.

A plaque that rewrites history A friend recently drew my attention to a sign posted on a hillside off Clearwater Bay Road, opposite the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. It claims to have been put there by “housekeeping volunteers” and exhorts passers-by to behave “quietly and with respect” as this place contains the buried bodies of soldiers from Britain, China and Japan who “gave their lives for freedom (1941-45)”. Surely history does not support the contention that the Japanese invasion of Hong Kong, which occurred at the dog end of 1941, was in the cause of freedom? As I have previously mentioned in this space, Sai Kung played a singular and honourable role in resistance to that occupation but this plaque seems to be going a bit far in rewriting history. That said, it is not the case that all the Japanese troops were monsters, merely that bad regimes force good people into doing bad things. This was clearly the case in wartime Hong Kong. What is troubling is that the history of this period remains insufficiently known but given the shameless collaboration of Hong Kong’s elite with the occupation forces it is not much of a mystery why this is so. The prominent families of that period remain prominent today. Stephen Vines is a journalist, broadcaster and entrepreneur. He is the former editor of the Eastern Express and Southeast Asia correspondent for The Observer.

Photo: Graham Uden.

fresh air

How clean is your world?

Good news – it’s not as bad as Beijing, writes Carolynne Dear.

Air quality Marta Araujo Smith has had enough. After years living in Hong Kong, she decided to move her family – including two small children – back to her native Portugal. The SAR’s air pollution was just too much. “Both children were sick constantly and would cough incessantly at night,” she said. “In the end, we were so concerned about the little ones’ health at this crucial developmental stage that I decided to move to Portugal. We just didn’t want to risk permanent lung damage. Within a few days the coughing had stopped.” For financial reasons Smith’s husband has had to stay in Hong Kong. “It was a very difficult decision to make,” she says. “But I was told by three different doctors that the coughing would stop if we changed our environment. I also contacted Professor Anthony Hedley [of the Hedley Environmental Index, which monitors Hong Kong’s air pollution in real-time, see hedleyindex.sph.hku.hk]. He told me, ‘It doesn’t matter where you are in Hong Kong, the air pollution will affect you.’” Like all Chinese megacities, Hong Kong wheezes in smog. Mainland factories, coal furnaces, ageing vehicles and uncontrolled shipping merge to create a now-familiar

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In the end, pollution is the key to deciding how long we are going to stay in Hong Kong. toxic fog that shrouds our city. Air pollution in Hong Kong regularly exceeds World Health Organisation (WHO) limits. University studies estimate air pollution costs Hong Kong about $21 billion a year in hospital admissions and lost productivity. So just how bad is the air? Last year online attorney Andrew Leyden started checking Hong Kong’s Air Pollution Index to gauge whether it was safe for his children to go out. “I couldn’t make sense of the numbers at all,” he said. So he built an iPhone app (Hong Kong Air Pollution) that locates the user’s position and links to one of the city’s 14 airmonitoring stations. The user can then choose to read the real-time results according to levels set by different global standards, including the WHO, Hong Kong, Australia, the US, Britain, France or the European Union. Pollution levels

are flagged red for high, green for good and so forth. The result? “Usually the air is safe for children to go out. Sometimes it is not,” Leyden says. “In the end, pollution is the key to deciding how long we are going to stay in Hong Kong.” The good news is the government has finally begun to address concerns. Undersecretary for the environment Christine Loh Kung-wai expects legislation on the mandatory use of cleaner shipping fuel to be lodged with the Legislative Council this summer. Plans are also being drawn up to promote hybrid electric vehicles and cleaner, natural gas.

Air-blown dust coats abandoned bikes in Beijing.

clean feature water

High Island Reservoir has a capacity of 273 million cubic metres, but most of our water comes from China.

Water

It may come as a surprise to learn Hong Kong enjoys one of the safest water supplies in the world, with drinking water quality conforming to stringent World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations. Hong Kong water is typically soft and is fully treated, so boiling and filtration should not be necessary. However, problems can occur when the water reaches individual buildings or residences. Before 1995, unlined galvanized pipes were widely used in plumbing systems in the SAR. These corrode over time and can discolour the water. If you live in an older building, it might be worth doing some research to find out if such pipes have been replaced. If you live in a managed building, check

that water storage tanks are being maintained properly and ask if they have been awarded certification under the Quality Water Recognition Scheme for Buildings. Chlorine is routinely used to keep water free from bacterial infection. If your water still smells when you run the tap, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still safe to drink but you could try boiling or using a jug filter to make it more palatable. Several companies, including Brita, sell jug filters for combatting residual chlorine in tap water. The government does not recommend the installation of domestic water filters on taps. If not properly maintained, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and any water that is backwashed up the tap can pollute the rest of the water system.

What you can do Life Solutions Operating in Hong Kong since 2003, Life Solutions offers a wide range of high-quality water and water filtration products to domestic, commercial and industrial clients. Its experienced staff will help you choose and install the filtration system best suited to every householdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual needs. Tel: 2778 3280

Natural Springs Australia Supplying more than 6,000 customers in Hong Kong since 2002, this company sources natural spring water from a protected aquifer in Victoria, Australia, that is treated only with oxygen to keep it "alive" and ensure top quality. Tel: 5323 8424.

Water Sources

Water supply has long been a problem in the SAR, with frequent water rationing during the 1950s, 60s and 70s. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries a series of reservoirs was built on Hong Kong Island. Following the 1967 riots, when China turned off the water supply to Hong Kong, large reservoirs were constructed at High Island in Sai Kung Country Park and Plover Cove in Tolo Harbour. They opened in the 1970s. Today, about 70 per cent of our water is imported from the Dongjiang River in Guangdong Province through the DongjiangShenzhen Water Supply Scheme.

Bonaqua Possibly the best-known water delivery company in Hong Kong delivers mineralised water to any location in the territory, including domestic households and commercial offices. The company is known for its reliability and affordable prices ($75 for five gallons). Tel: 2210 3311.

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recycle

Pioneering compost

A pioneering composting scheme at Lee Siu Yam School in Sai Kung is successfully turning leftover lunches and other waste into compost that is used by Hong Kong farms to grow vegetables. Those vegetables are now on sale at participating schools, including Garden House in Clearwater Bay with the International Christian School in Sha Tin due to join soon. An initiative by the Teng Hoi Conservation Organization (www.tenghoi.org), there are plans to start an online ordering system for the public through Lee Siu Yam School soon, says director George Woodman. “Folks can buy veg online then pick up from the school on Saturday mornings,” he explains. Woodman hopes to make the composter available to members of the public keen to recycle their own organic waste: “We have some capacity to compost at LSY on Saturdays. It's not ready yet but will be soon. We'll probably open that up to people who join the veg-buying club. And we have applied for funding for a large composting centre near Sai Kung.”

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Recycling

Landfill is fast reaching capacity in Hong Kong. Households produce about 80 per cent of the city’s waste and just 14 per cent of this is currently recycled. Hong Kong Recycles was set up last year primarily as a social project (it employs marginalized members of society) and to ensure more of our junk is properly recycled; waste in government recycling bins often gets treated as regular rubbish. Hong Kong Recycles promises every piece of rubbish it collects will avoid landfill. For $25 a week, its operators will collect waste glass, metal, paper and plastic from your door to be whisked away for treatment and re-use. For details, visit hkrecycles.com. To find out more about the government's waste-management plans, particularly with regard to glass recycling following a successful private initiative in Stanley, go along to a meeting with Christine Loh, under secretary for the environment, at Stanley Plaza Amphitheatre on March 2 (noon-1.30pm).

rubbish facts Hong Kong generates: • 6.4 million tonnes of waste a year • Or 19,000 tonnes a day • Which is equivalent to 380 double decker buses dumped daily in our landfills Recycling one tonne of paper can save: • 17 trees • 1,500 litres of oil Hong Kong’s three major landfills will be at full capacity by 2019.

eating

it's good for you

Tai Tong Organic Ecopark.

Clean greens

Where to get organic produce in Sai Kung. Nature's Harvest Located in picturesque Pak Shui Wun, close to the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, this sustainable organic farm welcomes visitors with a host of workshops including hands-on organic farming, handicrafts, cooking classes and how to create your own herb garden. It sells its own hand-picked produce, certified by the Hong Kong Organic Resource Centre. Produce is harvested every Thursday morning for delivery that afternoon (free with orders of more than $300). Orders must be placed by Tuesdays. For a two-bag trial and more details, please visit www.naturesharvest.com.hk.

Tai Tong Organic Ecopark Pick your own organic strawberries at this Yuen Long eco farm. The strawberry season runs December to April, so there’s still time to stuff those punnets. As well as fruit picking, the park has a petting zoo, fish ponds, a large picnic lawn and some great-looking playgrounds, including a rope course, in beautiful surroundings. Open daily from 9am to 6pm. 11 Tai Tong Shan Road, Yuen Long, 2470 2201, www.yl.hk/taitong.

Chung Heng Organic Shop This three-year-old family run store sells (mostly) organic produce as well as organic extra-virgin olive oil and wines, and gluten-free products. Not everything is organic; the Chilean avocados, for instance, are simply "so good" they couldn't resist. 102 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung. 2791 3386.

Homegrown Foods It may not be grown in Hong Kong, but this is the next best thing; organic produce from the supplier’s own farm in China. Every week it delivers boxes of just-picked fresh, seasonal fruit and vegetables of various sizes and a choice of “international” or “Hong Kong-style” produce, suited to Western or Asian cooking styles. Free delivery on orders of more than $338. For details and to order, visit www.homegrownfoods.com.hk.

Lion’s Nature Education Centre Sai Kung Not only can you see fruit and vegetables growing organically in the fields and orchards of Sai Kung’s favourite model farm, but you can buy it too. The cream of the crop goes on sale in the park every Sunday at exceptionally reasonable prices – plus it’s fun for all the family. Open 9.30am-5pm, Che Keng Tuk Road, Sai Kung, 2792 2234, www.lnec.gov.hk.

South Stream Seafoods After 14 years serving quality organic seafood and meats to top hotels, restaurants and airline caterers, South Stream now offers these same great seafood treats for home delivery. It also offers a range of frozen organic fruit and veg and a limited selection of fresh produce. 2873 3610, www.south-stream-seafoods.com.

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The dirty dozen Certain fruits and vegetables are more susceptible to containing high pesticide residues and are recommended to be bought organic: • Apples • Celery • Strawberries • Peaches • Spinach • Nectarines • Grapes • Bell peppers (capsicums) • Potatoes • Blueberries • Lettuce • Kale The “clean dozen” are least susceptible to pesticide residues: • Onions • Sweetcorn • Pineapples • Avocado • Cabbage • Sweet peas • Asparagus • Mangoes • Aubergine (eggplant) • Kiwi • Melon • Sweet potato • Grapefruit

sponsored column

New pre-schools and pre-school programmes

Applying to pre-schools is highly competitive. But new schools and programmes are popping up. Bebegarten Spanning more than 10,000 sq ft and six classrooms in One Island South, Aberdeen, Bebegarten is a new concept in early childhood education. The aim is to create a new paradigm in education where children and parents are embraced, challenged and encouraged as unique, creative individuals. It has a low teacher-student ratio (1:8) in every class. www.bebegarten.com. GEO Education Geo Education on Caine Road opened in September. Classes are for children aged from 18 months to three and a half years old. The curriculum is based on the British Early Years' Foundation Stage with a low teacherstudent ratio of eight to 10 children in each class. Geo Education aims for children to become confident, independent and prepared for the next step in their educational journey. www.geo-edu.com.hk. Little Dalton Little Dalton is a progressive, bilingual kindergarten guided by The Dalton Plan, one of the most successful child-centred

educational models in the world. It focuses on nurturing children by giving them appropriate freedom, responsibility and opportunities for cooperation. Little Dalton will open soon with a playgroup, pre-kindergarten and after-school programmes. K1 to K3 classes will start in August. www.littledalton.com.

MILLS International Preschool Ths new pre-school opens in Yau Tong in August. Millsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; aims to offer a caring and stimulating environment for up to 300 children aged two years and eight months to five years. It will offer the Early Key Stages of the British National Curriculum with Mandarin as an integrated language. www.millsinternational.com.hk. Woodland Pre-School Montessori Mandarin Programme The first Woodland Mandarin Immersion classes opened in its Pokfulam Pre-School after Lunar New Year. The curriculum is based on monthly themes and includes maths (counting), language (Mandarin speaking and character recognition), story, circle, play and snack times, music and movement, art & craft, and cooking. www.woodlandschools.com.

Woodland Pre-School Pokfulam launches a Montessori Mandarin Programme.

ITS School Placements 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@tuition.com.hk or 3188 3940.

Creating a love of learning in Kowloon Bay Kellett School, The British International School in Hong Kong, is an English National Curriculum School. Kellett School is now accepting applications for the Senior School and A-Level programme at the new Kowloon Bay campus, opening in September 2013. For applications and further information visit www.kellettschool.com or email admissions@kellettschool.com

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family

bless their cotton socks

Outward Bound.

Easter camps

Keep the kids busy during the holiday. Get active

Outward Bound Outward Bound is running a residential training camp for children aged eight to 10 on March 30 to April 3 at its Sai Kung campus. Two instructors oversee a group of up to 12 children taking part in raft building, orienteering, kayaking, swimming and hiking. All the camping, overnight accommodation and sports equipment is included in the price of $4,025. Tai Mong Tsai, Sai Kung, 2792 4333, www.outwardbound.org.hk. Sports camps ESF Educational Services is offering a wide range of fun-filled sports camps and clinics from March 25 to 28. One- to four-day camps in a range of sports or specialising in basketball, tennis, gymnastics, trampoline, kung fu or swimming take place on ESF campuses, including Renaissance College and King George V School. Prices vary from $300 to $2,400 and camps are open to all children, not just ESF students. For details, visit www.esf.org.hk. Sailing Hebe Haven Yacht Club runs a series of popular children’s camps including sailing courses in different classes of boat and the Adventure Camp – five varied days of sailing, raft building, beach games, hiking, BBQs and more in beautiful Sai Kung countryside – on March 25-29 and April

1-5. The day camps are suitable for children aged seven to 12 years, including novice sailors ($3,500 for members, $5,000 for non-members; 10am5pm daily). Get a taste at the Sailing Centre Open Day on March 10, when the public is invited to try sailing, meet the team and take part in mini races. Free, 10am-5pm, Hiram’s Highway, Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung, 2719 9682, www.hhyc.org.hk. Soccer Asia Pacific Soccer School is running three-hour day camps for boys and girls aged 18 months to 14 years old at football pitches around Hong Kong. Look for the schedules online from midMarch. Similar sessions last year cost $360 each. Details from 2385 9677, www.bss.com.hk.

Literature and drama

Faust International Youth Theatre The drama company is running Holiday Theatre and Creative Writing camps from March 25 to April 6. The drama camp ($2,450 for five days) is for children aged four to 14 and focuses on fun 2.5hour sessions that teach key stage skills at Faust’s Hollywood Road studio. At the end of the camp, students perform a 30-minute set for parents. The creative writing classes are for children aged six to 13 and focus on all aspects of writing. They take place at the Faust offices in Sheung Wan. For details, call 2547 9114, email Info@FaustWorld. com or visit www.FaustWorld.com.

Cooking classes

The Peninsula Budding Junior MasterChefs aged six to 12 years can hone their skills at classes led by the Peninsula hotel’s chefs. In a special Easter class ($780) banquet chefs teach children to make festive Easter goodies. 10am-noon, including breakfast. Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2696 6693. Vero Chocolate Easter seems an appropriate time for a 45-minute chocolate-decorating class with Vero’s head artisan chocolatier, who is flying in specially from Belgium. Available for children of all ages, the classes are available from March 29 to April 1 at the brand’s flagship store in The Landmark, 15 Queens Road Central, 2559 5810.

Art workshops

Anastassia's Art Studio Let your creativity blossom like flowers in the spring, urges Anastassia, which is running a series of children's art workshops from March 23-April 7. Children aged three to five years and six to 12 years can create artworks themed around spring and Easter. Projects include Easter bunny family painting and collage, Easter chick mask, Easter basket ceramic sculpture, 3-D cards and a spring flower wreath. 9 Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, 2719 5533, www.arthouse-hk.com.

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health & beauty

Bamboo blitz

Go on, treat yourself at the Mandarin Oriental Spa, says Samantha Organ. If, like me, all you want is healthinduced bliss from a spa with an excellent reputation, professional therapists, first-class facilities and results-driven treatments, The Mandarin Oriental Spa is for you. The royal treatment starts at the door, where a charming spa assistant greets guests with a steaming mug of detoxifying lemon tea – delicious and specially formulated to aid the digestive system for optimum comfort during spa treatments. The ambience is immediately calming, as the demure 1930s Shanghai décor and Asian music soothe body, mind and soul. I switch my fashionable pumps for less stylish but more comfortable slippers, part of a foot ritual designed to encourage complete relaxation from head to toe. Then guests are invited to make full use of the spa’s facilities for 45 minutes. It’s a sanctuary of serenity, with a sauna, Kniepp hydrotherapy pool and experience showers that open the pores and stimulate the senses. For those in need of a serious detox, the Chinese herbal steam room works wonders. Or simply sip honey and rosewater tea and

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nibble on a fresh fruit plate in the dimly lit peace of the Tea Lounge. That’s where the therapist found me. The beautifully adorned Jasmine Suite awaited, with a double futon mattress, twin treatment beds and private vitality pool. Before treatments, guests are asked to choose a scent to match their aspirations. “If you’re in need of uplifting, embrace a zesty orange scent or a perhaps a more potent eucalyptus if you’re feeling congested,” my therapist advised. I chose a subtly alluring and playful orange-blossom scent, designed to calm yet invigorate the body while rebalancing the flow of energy. Then my therapist got to work on the Mandarin’s Oriental

The Mandarin Oriental Spa.

zzzzz Bamboo Massage, a 90-minute treatment that released every aching knot and relieved every stress and strain locked in my muscles. Perfectly suited to both men and women, the Bamboo Massage favours the more muscular body type however pressure is adjusted accordingly to suit individual tolerances. Using a combination of hand movements and different lengths of bamboo cane, my masseuse gently heated and kneaded each muscle to alleviate tightness and pressure, leaving my body, mind and soul perfectly rejuvenated.

As well as the Bamboo Massage, the Mandarin Oriental offers a wide range of holistic treatments, Chinese medicinal therapies and signature facials from leading beauty brands such as Gaylia Kristensen, Aromatherapy Associates and Eve Lom. Whether you're in need of a one-off pampering session or visiting for a special occasion, the spa does not fail to impress. The Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road Central, 2522 0111, www.mandarinoriental.com

Beauty spot

Angel of the old town For those on the lookout for a good-quality manicure, A-Nails is a gem. Co-owned and run by Angel Kong, this Sai Kung old town salon is clean, comfortable and welcoming in three languages (Kong speaks fluent English, Cantonese and Thai). A capable nail technician with many years’ experience, Kong holds qualifications from both Thailand and OPI in Hong Kong. When it comes to nail care, there’s not much she can’t do. While my teenage daughter and I opted for traditional manicures ($150), Kong also offers express manicures and pedicures, Shellac, gel nails and a menu of high-end OPI treatments, as well as gift vouchers. A week on, our manicures are still unchipped and glossy – a rare attribute that makes A-Nails a keeper. 9B Wang Street (near Revolution), Sai Kung, 2792 1099, www.a-nails.com.hk. Spring at Melo Spa Ready to shed a layer of clothing? Get ready for the warmer weather with two invigorating new treatments at the Melo Spa in the Hyatt Regency Sha Tin. The Melo Renewal Treat ($1,450, 90 minutes) kicks off with a brisk brush exfoliation to stimulate the lymph flow, followed by a refreshing organic body mask to soften the skin, and ending with a relaxing foot massage or a restorative back massage to uplift and balance the body and mind. The Botanical Pure Therapy ($1,890, two hours) is a de-stressing massage therapy using citrus aroma oil to relax the muscles and awaken the spirit, followed by a June Jacobs hydra facial to revitalize and smooth the skin, leaving you feeling supple and radiant. 5/F, Hyatt Regency Sha Tin, 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, 3723 7684, melospa@hyatt.com

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travel

Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo, Right: Imperial Palace, Tokyo, and Kyoto streetscapes.

Singing of Sakura

It’s cherry blossom season in Japan. William Whitaker views the blooms.

Around the turn of the 19th century, a great Japanese writer wrote a haiku: “In the cherry blossom’s shade / there is no such thing / as a stranger.” His name was Kobayashi Issa, and the spirit of his words still define the country’s cherryblossom season. Because it’s just that beautiful. Every spring, people across Japan engage in the 1,300-year-old tradition of “flower viewing”, or hanami. Friends and families spend afternoons beneath trees resplendent with pink and white blossoms, picnicking in gardens specifically designed for this season, and admiring the flitting of petals the breeze has tugged from the branches. Traditionally, the cherry blossom represents the essential beauty and vulnerability of being human – they are easily damaged, and only bloom for two to three weeks. For many Japanese, beyond the beauty of the blossoms themselves, the season is a time to reflect and appreciate the past year and find new strength to move forward. The season starts in early April (give or take a week). Cherry trees need spring warmth

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to flower and the first blossom in Japan is greeted with an evening news report. As the “cherry blossom front” sweeps north, the daily weather forecasts report on its progress. This is because, on top of their philosophical significance, the blossoms transform the Japanese landscape by providing the first vibrant colour after a grey and white winter. Tokyo Japan’s capital is the largest metropolitan area in the world with a population of more than 13 million and a buzzing cityscape of grand steel and glass towers. That modern architecture makes a fascinating contrast to the beautifully

Blooming facts

landscaped city temples and parks and the simple majesty of cherry blossoms in bloom. The most popular hanami locations – the Imperial Palace, Shinjuku Gyoen, Yoyogi Park and Ueno Park – are large, beautifully landscaped and impeccably maintained. Each is well worth visiting during the festival, even if they approach Hong Kong levels of crowded. Inokashira Park is a smaller and more intimate place to the west of central Tokyo. Or take a stroll along Naka Meguro river, south of central Tokyo. More like a canal, the landscaped waterfront is lined with cherry trees and is a favourite among residents looking to avoid the potential crush at Ueno.

Japan’s blossoming cherry trees do not bear fruit; they are simply ornamental. Hanami began in the early 8th century and was initially reserved for the Imperial Court. It would take nearly 1,000 years to become a nationwide tradition. Hanami season has a consumer side. Starbucks offers cherry-infused white chocolate mochas, and pink petal-themed candies, souvenirs and apparel are sold on every corner.

travel

Kyoto In Kyoto, tradition and history live happily alongside the modern city. The ancient Japanese capital and the site of the original Imperial Palace, Kyoto is gorgeous. Particularly stunning is Kiyomizudera Temple in eastern Kyoto. Built above an ancient waterfall, its main attraction is a wooden stage standing 13 metres above a forest of blooming cherry trees, all set against the modern structures of Kyoto city in the distance. Also in the east is Tetsugaku-no-Michi promenade, a simple cherry tree-lined path beside a canal. It connects two of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most storied sites: Ginkakuji and Nanzen-ji temples. Start at beautiful Ginkakuji temple (famous for its natural majesty and sand garden) and stroll the three-kilometre route beneath the blossom to end the afternoon at Nanzen-jiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expansive and beautifully landscaped grounds, complete with several smaller temples that each deserve a visit. Then break out a bento box, sip some sake, and enjoy.

Kiyomizudera Temple, Kyoto

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hikes Tolo tombolo Pete Spurrier gets a taste of old Hong Kong at a fishing village on a spit.

Once everyone in Hong Kong lived in fishing villages, and sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nice to visit the few that remain. Sam Mun Tsai in Tolo Harbour doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get many tourists. After seeing it, you can walk out to a seaside nature reserve at Ma Shi Chau, part of the Geopark, a route that involves a little hill walking and takes two to three hours. From Sai Kung, take bus 299 to Sha Tin, then the MTR to Tai Po Market and catch either bus 74K or green minibus 20K to the last stop at Sam Mun Tsai (or take a green cab from Tai Po for about $45). On arrival, walk down the slope towards the harbour to enter the main part of the village. Sam Mun Tsai was founded in the 1960s when the government built the Plover Cove Reservoir, drowning several ancient villages nearby. A line of two-storey houses was built to rehouse displaced fishing families, who brought

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shore thing their Earth God shrine with them. Later they were joined by other families relocated from Tap Mun, an island at the mouth of Tolo Harbour. Sam Mun Tsai harbour is full of small craft and there are even a few old-fashioned wooden junks at anchor. Tolo Harbour is very enclosed and usually as still as a pond; in days gone by, pearls were retrieved from deep underwater. The fishing industry is less important today, and most residents of Sam Mun Tsai seem to be elderly, but as you walk through the village you’ll see plenty of seafood drying on racks and lines. At weekends, two exhibitions are open to visitors. On the left, the Salvation Army has a collection of old photographs and fishing tools such as nets and lobster pots. And in a stone house at the end of the village, there’s a visitor centre for the Hong Kong Geopark with information about the coastline’s unusual geological formations, including the tombolo (islands connected by a spit) and sedimentary rocks at Ma Shi Chau. To visit Ma Shi Chau, follow the signs uphill past the empty village school. A trail leads through a cemetery and over a hill, revealing a wonderful panorama of the Pat Sin Leng range to the north and Ma On Shan to the south. The

paved path becomes a narrow earthen track and drops down to the shore beside the tombolo. If the tide is low enough, walk across the sand bar Luen Yick San Tsuen to Ma Shi Chau island, designated a special Sam Mun Tsai San Tsuen protected area for its rock formations. The sedimentary rocks on its shore were created long before the dinosaurs Yim Tin Tsai walked the earth. A nature trail leads along the coast, with information boards pointing out geological features such as veins of quartz. The route sticks close to the water, so the gentle wash of waves accompanies your footsteps. It’s a one-way trail, so you have to return the same way. Back at Sam Mun Tsai, there’s a seafood restaurant near the bus stop and for simpler dining one of the village shops operates an outdoor barbecue.

Ma Shi Chau

Tolo Harbour hiking trail.

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

Tolo Harbour.

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outdoors

up, up

Hang time

Spring is here, and with it, the high-flying fun of kiteboarding. Many watersports are exciting, but few blow the hair back quite like kiteboarding. Riding something akin to a wakeboard, kiteboarders skim the waves and control the strings of a kite to propel themselves high into the air. “This one time I remember jumping over five stories high,” says Keith Tang, president of the Kiteboarding Association of Hong Kong (KAHK). “Looking down at the the crystal blue water, I remember thinking, I can fly without wings.” Tang founded the Kiteboarding Association of Hong Kong in 2004. Before then, he says, kiteboarding did not really exist in Hong Kong – watersports were defined mostly by wakeboarding and windsurfing. But growing interest worldwide for kiteboarding around this time gave enthusiasts greater access to better equipment at lower prices. “It became a truly sustainable hobby for me,” Tang says, “and so I founded KAHK to find people with whom to share remarkable little experiences like this.” Two of Hong Kong’s largest kiteboarding organizations are the Kiteboard Activity Association (KBAA) and Tang’s KAHK, both of which offer a range of courses from two- to

four-hour introductory “discovery” lessons to two- or three-day packages for those looking to get good quickly. Prices range from $500 to more than $2,000. According to Tang, anyone interested should give it a shot. But lessons are important for beginners, he says so they understand how to work with the wind and not against it. “After that, just have fun,” he advises. Hong Kong’s kiteboarding season runs from March to October, although the various organizations offer lessons year-round. And they tend to prefer beaches along the west of Hong Kong – Tuen Mun and Lantau Island, for example. In Sai Kung, Sha Ha beach and Pak Sha Chau are both popular kiteboarding locations. But because conditions there can be tricky, the sites are recommended only for advanced boarders. But, Tang says, it’s more than worth the effort. “You just can’t beat the exhilaration of skimming across the water’s surface.”

How to Kiteboard Association of Hong Kong Offers year-round “discovery”, beginner, intermediate, private and multi-day package deals from $500-$4,500 from Shui Hau Wan, Lantau Island (September-March) and Lung Kwu Tan, Tuen Mun (March-August). For details, visit www.kiteboarding.org.hk or email info@kiteboarding.org.hk. Kiteboard Activity Association Also offers year-round “discovery”, beginner, intermediate and multi-day package deals from $500-$4,500 from beaches on Lantau Island and Tuen Mun. It also offers a five-day instructor training course. For details, visit www.kiteboard. activity.hk, call 2424 1010 or email kiteboard@activity.hk. Kiteboarding.HK Offers year-round “discovery” lessons for $500 and a two-day course for $4,000 from Shui Hau Wan, Lantau. For details, visit www.kiteboarding.hk or email contact@kiteboarding.hk.

From left: KAHK training; Keith Tang; kites and cows on the beach.

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pets

the digs

A question of breeding

Sally Andersen on the problem of "pure breeds".

Ferndale Kennels and Cattery.

In the doghouse

Joyce Chan finds Easter holiday homes for Rover. Ferndale Kennels and Cattery One of Sai Kung’s oldest and most trusted kennels, Ferndale is set in stunning countryside just beyond the Pak Tam Chung country park gate and run by local vet Stacy Tucker. It has 33 individual kennels for dogs, 30 for cats and even offers an email photo service to reassure owners that their pet is happy and well. A pickup and delivery service is available. Prices for dogs range from $150 to $300 a day. For details, visit ferndalekennels.com. DB Dog Dayz Also based in Sai Kung Country Park, DB Dog Dayz offers kennel-free accommodation and promises to walk your dog daily in the surrounding hills. Dogs are kept comfortable with round-the-clock air conditioning In warm weather, and space heaters and an individual blanket in winter. Prices start at $225 a day or $250 for public holidays and peak season. For details, visit dbdogdayz.com. Kennel Van Dego This 60,0000-square-foot facility at the top of Yan Yee Road in Sai Kung provides separate areas based on the size of your dog in the Large Dogs Habitat, Medium Dogs Lodge or Small Dogs Chalet. Pooches are exercised in seven playgrounds on site. Prices range from $140 to $200. For details, visit kennelvandego.com.

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Royal Pets HK Royal Pets offers a home boarding service, placing your dog in the cosy home of an experienced pet sitter, which are all checked. Up to two dogs or cats can be boarded with a foster family for $250 a day. Dog walking and cat feeding services are also available. For details, visit royal-pets-hk.com. The Grand Dogaroo Pet Hotel This is as close as you can get to putting Fritz in the Ritz. This 8,000-square-foot “luxury” facility on Waterloo Road, Kowloon, has a lobby like a boutique hotel. The first certified ISO 9001 pet hotel in Hong Kong boasts a heated pool, playground, dog cafe and training centre. Prices start at $290 a night for dogs of less than 10kg, with prices increasing on a progressive scale based on the dog’s weight. For details, visit dogarootraining.com. Pet World Pet World offers five-star accommodation in Yuen Long for your four-legged friends. It has 60 kennels, each equipped with a covered outdoor exercise area and indoor living room. Dogs will enjoy cuddle time, chicken meals, a daily chew and health checks. A daily photo service gives owners peace of mind. Daily rates vary from $150 to $430. For details, visit petworldhk.com.

Will “breedism” ever become as outdated and unacceptable as racism? It should. Among its many nonsenses is the idea that “pure breeds” are better behaved. Since I founded Hong Kong Dog Rescue (HKDR) 10 years and thousands of dogs ago I have only had to put three dogs to sleep for severe behaviour problems: a cocker spaniel, a golden retriever and a mongrel. Of the three, the golden retriever caused the most concern as he would attack quite viciously. Even though he behaved like an angel with me, I had to take him to be destroyed. He was stunningly handsome and only a year old. A man rang looking for springer spaniels, but when I got back in touch to say two 18-month-old pedigree springers needed a home I was too late. He had already ordered a puppy from Australia and paid a A$1,000 deposit. I offered to give him the deposit back – the last thing Hong Kong needs is more dogs. Mail-order shopping for a life? My heart sinks. Later, another visitor to HKDR can't find a pure breed and buys from a pet shop instead. When I next see him his golden retreiver puppy has hip problems and may need operations to be able to walk. I simply can’t understand why the pet shops are still in business – most people are aware that the puppies in these places are likely to be sick, come from hideous puppy farms and were probably smuggled over the border before they were old enough to be taken from their mothers. It’s a revolting trade in innocent life, and it continues simply because people continue to buy. Sally Andersen is the founder of Hong Kong Dog Rescue, a charity that rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes unwanted or abandoned dogs.

Give a dog a home:

www.hongkongdogrescue.com

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bird at my window

Azure-winged magpie aka Cyanopica cyanus

The attractive azure-winged magpie is easily recognised by its black head and nape, grey mantle and blue wings and tail. Although not native to southern China, released birds were present in the Zoological and Botanical Gardens from the 1970s to the 90s, when the population died out. However, a flock of escaped or released birds became established in the Mai Po area in 2002 and there is now a self-sustaining population of nearly 50 individuals in the area. They are noisy, sociable birds, and can usually be seen around the Mai Po car park or in the adjacent fung shui wood where they breed. The azure-winged magpie has a disjunct range, with two distinct populations separated by a distance of 9,000 kilometres: one can be found in Spain and Portugal, the other in northeast Asia. Until 1997, there were two theories for this. First, that the species was introduced to Europe by Portuguese sailors returning from Asia in the 16th century. Second, that it was once found in a continuous band across the Palearctic but became extinct in the intervening areas during the last glacial period. The puzzle was solved when a skeleton of an azure-winged magpie discovered in a cave in Gibraltar was dated to the Pleistocene, about 44,000 years ago. Recent DNA studies indicate the two forms diverged at least a million years ago. Most authorities now consider the two forms to be separate species, with the European birds known as Iberian magpie Cyanopicus cooki. 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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classifieds LOCAL Property

Services 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 : 23976418

TOTAL PRIVACY ~ $110K/33M SOLE AGENT ~ SAI KUNG Beautiful, 4 Bed Family Home. Top Quality Renovations, Bright & Airy, Privately Hidden-Away, yet Super Convenient Just a Stroll from Shops & Transport. 10 Mins to MTR. Ref ~ SK046 www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 C-027656

PHOENIX CARPET CARE LTD for 20 years Hong Kong’s premier cleaner of carpets & upholstery. Phoenix ensure true quality workmanship at reasonable cost. Hand cleaning of Oriental rugs. Steam extraction of fitted carpets. Upholstery cleaning. Scotchgard Protection. Call 2328 2287 or 9517 5436 for free quote/inspection. NATIONAL HARBOUR RENOVATIONS Home and office reno upgrades. Plumbing, electrical and handyman services. Call Charles 90851886 info@nationalharbour.com.hk www.nationalharbour.hk

GREAT VALUE ~ $48K SAI KUNG ~ Spacious, 4 Beds, Separate Family Room, Own Terrace, Huge shared Pool. Well Managed Development. Convenient Location, 5 Mins drive to Sai Kung Town Centre. Super Family Friendly Environment. Ref~SK183 www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 C-027656

Overseas Property NEED A HOLIDAY? PHUKET VILLA FOR RENT! Luxury 5 beds villa with swimming pool located in Surin area. Walking distance to beaches. Reasonable rates! Website: www.phuketvilla4rent.com Email the owner: info@ phuketvilla4rent.com

PaintSpecs Boat Painters PaintSpecs is a great little team with ability to transform your old hull boat into gleaming thing of beauty, with just the swish of a spray gun. Please contact us for a free quotation. mobile - Allen 92450039, Ray 54430923 E-mail - paintspecs@live.com ShenZhen DayTrip Shopping Hk 2,000 with 7-Seaters Lighting Mall Furniture Mall Art village Homedecoration , Carpet and Rugs. Franki (90362128) happyday2128@netvigator.com

EUROPEAN MOTORS LTD of Sai Kung since 1975. Buy and sell used cars All our cars are fully checked and come with a written warranty. We are on the main road opposite the Sai Kung. Police Station next to Chez Uno and Wicka on the corner by the Sha Kok Mei junction and where there is ample parking. Open 7 days a week. Just call Paul Gross on 9027 4846 www.europeanmotors.com.hk SAI KUNG PODIATRIST Treatment of foot problems including ingrown toenails and nail deformities, corns and callosities. Bunions, flat feet, toe deformities, warts, fungal infections, diabetic foot problems etc. Tel: 62550088 or 23351694 for appointment booking.

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Food and Beverage CAKES FOR ALL OCCASIONS Delicious and beautiful handmade cakes and cupcakes made with love using the finest ingredients. Please call The Cake Lady, Louisa Barton. 93041056 or www.facebook.com/ louisathecakelady.

Charity REGISTER AS A VOLUNTEER Give a few hours of your time to Sai Kung Stray Friends. If you want to do something worthwhile come and help at our holding facility in Sai Kung. Any day or time suitable to you. Various tasks, sweeping, cleaning, dog walking, paddock Mum or just providing some love to the dogs. Dads are welcome too for mowing duty! Email: saikungstrayfriendshk@gmail.com Call Narelle: 9199.2340 (English) Jessie: 9097.4591 (Chinese)

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SAI KUNG STRAY FRIENDS SOCIETY DOG OF THE MONTH: HAPPY Strong and energetic male, aged 2 years, weight 27kgs, desexed, fully vaccinated and has Heartguard Protection. Visit Happy anytime at our Adoption Centre No. 151 Tai Lam Wu, Sai Kung. Call Narelle 9199.2340 or Catherine 6799.7530

The Samaritans’ Support Group for People Bereaved by Suicide An English-speaking support group meets on the first Wednesday of each month, 8 pm, The Mariners’ Club, TST. Free & confidential. For further information, please tel 2896 0000 or check http://www.samaritans.org.hk

random but interesting Tuition Tennis Performance Asia Limited Lessons/Training : Private, Groups – Adult, children, Ladies Coaching Kowloon, NT, HK Island HK, Australian, USPTA Qualified Coaches Contact Senior Coach Todd Hooper – 97335197: todd@tennisperformanceasia.com www.tennisperformanceasia.com [TPA] Director – Ray Kelly

MUSIC TUITION AT HOME: Individual lessons for piano repertoire / music theory / piano accompaniment and aural practice for other instruments' exams / competitions. English / Chinese instruction. Holder of LTCL with Distinction of Trinity College London. Years of teaching experience. Member of professional charity choir. Please call 9336 8059 for details.

HOME SCHOOLING / TUTORING Well qualified / experienced teachers available. - Primary / lower secondary - Individuals / small groups - lessons tailored to individual needs - special needs qualification - your home or ours Email: hilaryrampton@hotmail.com Tel: 94211495 (after 6th Jan)

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

VIANNE'S MUSIC WONDERLAND PRIVATE PIANO COURSE @ YOUR HOME ﹣www.mymusicwonderland.com ﹣Experienced tutor accept students aged 3 and over. Student Annual Recital/ Practical Examination/ Competition/ Theory/ Accompaniment/ T:6014 - 9389 for Trial lesson/ mschanpiano@yahoo.com

Spanish lessons by native speaker with high qualifications. Please contact sylvia.marti@hotmail.com or 51840045.

Health and Well being 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: 93023931 Website: www.yoyoyoga.net

Massage @ Home, Hotel Body massage, Chinese Tui Na, Swedish Massage, lymphatic drainage & aromatherapy massage. Our therapists offer mobile (outcall, housecall) service $700/2hrs (text in Chinese Address & speak in Chinese 66903658) www.ablemassage.com

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the ultimate guide to sai kung COMMUNITY & HEALTH Hang Hau Community Hall 3740 5328 / 3740 5346 Li Pang Tat Chinese Medicine Practitioners 2328 9913 Podiatrist – Heidi Corcoran 2335 1694 / 6255 0088 | info@ntpodiatry.com Resurrection Church 2358 3232 | www.resurrection.org.hk Sai Kung District Community Centre 2792 1762 Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre 2792 3828 The Sai Kung Jockey Club Town Hall 3740 5328 / 2792 1487 Annerley — maternity and early childhood professionals www.annerley.com.hk Wellness & birth, pre & postnatal home care 9022 1779 | www.wellnessandbirth.com info@wellnessandbirth.com

DAILY NECESSITIES City Lifestyle 2791 5485 Market Place by Jasons 2358 0542 Wellcome 2791 1841

FINANCIAL SERVICES Bank Of China (Hong Kong) 2792 1465 Kwiksure 3113 1331 | christian@kwiksure.com www.kwiksure.com Standard Chartered Bank 2792 1351 Financial Planning Excellence info@fpehk.com | www.fpehk.com

TRANSPORT & Travel SERVICES Webjet HK

Unit 1706, BEA Tower, Millennium City 5, 418 Kwun Tong Road, Kwun Tong, Kln, Hong Kong 2313 9779 Onlinetravel@webjet.com.hk www.webjet.com.hk Crown Relocations 2636 8388 | hongkong@crownrelo.com www.crownrelo.com/hongkong Kwong Hing Motors Ltd 2791 4949 | http://khmwhk.com Expert-Transport & Relocations Warehouse 2566 4799 | www.expertmover.hk Scorpion RIBS Hong Kong 2511 8337 | scorpionribshk@gmail.com www.scorpionribs.com Club Med 3111 9388 | www.clubmed.com.hk Hebe Haven Yacht Club pr_mgr@hhyc.org.hk | www.hhyc.org.hk

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HOME Box Design

2573 3323 info@boxdesign.com.hk www.boxdesign.com.hk

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 Eco Living 2792 2998 | askus@ecoliving.hk | www.ecoliving.hk The Handyman HK 9268 0514 / 6376 7950 thehandymanhk@gmail.com Marco Electrician, Plumber, House painting 6190 8051 | marco_yeung000@hotmail.com JCAW Consultants 2524 9988 | jcawltd@biznetvigator.com Lift Lifestyle International Ltd 3907 0386 liftlifestyle@gmail.com | www.liftlifestyle.com Everything Under The Sun 2554 9088 | www.everythingunderthesun.com.hk

REAL-ESTATE AGENCIES Vega Suites 3963 7888 | enquiries@vegasuites.com.hk www.vegasuites.com.hk Sino Group 8207 7608 | www.sino-homes.com Hong Kong Sotheby's International Realty 6280 3566 | lilian.lue@hksothebysrealty.com hksothebysrealty.com

TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS' PARTIES Bumps to Babes

2552 5000 (Ap Lei Chau Main Store) 2522 7112 (Pedder Building Branch) www.bumpstobabes.com

Hazel Ltd saleshazel@biznetvigator.com Hong Kong Toy Club 8216 3870 support@HongKongToyClub.com www.HongKongToyClub.com EEK Toy Shop 3487 3053 Tiny Footprints 2552 2466 | www.tinyfootprints.com

LEARNING CENTRES Anfield School admin@anfield.edu.hk www.anfield.edu.hk Antsmart Learning Centre / Playgroup, Math 2335 1261 tangfrancis@hotmail.com www.playgroup.com.hk Grand Piano www.grandpiano.hk La Petite France 3403 9887 | info@lapetitefrance.com.hk www.lapetitefrance.com.hk Hong Kong Academy 2655 1111 | www.hkacademy.edu.hk Hong Kong International Tennis Academy 9048 2810 | lea.lai@hkita.com | www.hkita.com ITS 3188 3946 | jennifer.c@tuition.com.hk Leapfrog Kindergarten 2791 1540 / 6413 8247 admin@leapfrogkindergarten.org www.leapfrogkindergarten.org Little Hands Workshop 5431 3122 info@littlehands.com.hk | www.littlehands.com.hk New Song Christian Kindergarten (Sai Kung) 2791 2472 newsong@netvigator.com | www.newsonghk.com Sai Kung Tutors 6907 2514 info@saikungtutors.com | www.saikungtutors.com Southern School of Dance 2872 6917 | www.southernschoolofdance.com ESF Educational Services 2760 3934 jim.hackett@esf.org.hk | www.esf.org.hk Mills International Preschool 2717 6336 preschool@millsinternational.com.hk www.millsinternational.com.hk Morrison Education 5189 5200 | juliea_morrison@yahoo.com Bricks 4 Kidz saikung@bricks4kidz.hk | www.bricks4kidz.hk Capoeira 9225 8924 | saikung@capoeira.hk www.capoeira.hk The Edge Learning Center 2783 7100 / 2972 2555 info@theedge.com.hk | www.theedge.com.hk Imran Cricket Academy 2575 3400 / 9745 2700 imran@imranacademy.com | www.imranacademy.com Jumpstart Mandarin Learning Centre 2791 4838 jumpstart@netvigator.com | www.jumpstartmlc.com Lighthouse Playroom 2791 2918 info@lighthouseplayroom.com www.lighthouseplayroom.com Playball info@playballhk.com | www.playballhk.com Vianne’s Music Wonderland 6014 9389 | mschanpiano@yahoo.com www.mymusicwonderland.com Kellet School admissions@kellettschool.com www.kelletschool.com

directory FASHION & BEAUTY

PETS & VETS

Au Lait Online Nursing & Maternity Wear www.aulait.com.hk B Two Hair Salon 3194 4181 / 2861 2638 | btwohairsalon@gmail.com Nuan Cashmere sales@nuancashmere.com | www.nuancashmere.com Sense of Touch 2791 2278 | ask@senseoftouchhk.com www.senseoftouch.com.hk Tala’s Health and Beauty Centre 2335 1694 info@talashairandbeautycentre.com www.talashairandbeautycentre.com Tranquility Foot Spa 2792 0821 | Tranquility.skhk@gmail.com Natural Day Spa 2791 0606 | info@naturaldayspa.com.hk A-Nails 2792 1099 | www.a-nails.com.hk Zone@Sai Kung Reflexology Center 2886 8804 / 9779 0761 info@zone-massage.com | www.zone-massage.com

Animal Behaviour Vet Practice 9618 2475 | cynthia@petbehaviourhk.com www.petbehaviourhk.com Animal Emergency Centre 2915 7979 | trilby@animalemergency.com.hk Ferndale Kennel 2792 4642 | boarding@ferndalekennels.com www.ferndalekennels.com Vet2Pet 6999 1003 | vet2pet@yahoo.com | www.vet2pet.com.hk Best Friends Veterinary Hospital 2792 8555

MULTIMEDIA

2/F., 14A1 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, NT, Hong Kong 2792 3939 | saikung.gallery@gmail.com www.saikunggallery.com

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT Curves

2234 9000 www.curves.com Blue Sky Sports Club 2791 0806 | info@bluesky-sc.com www.bluesky-sc.com Cambridge Weight Plan Hong Kong 2525 7165 www.cambridgeweightplan.hk Outdoor Fitness 9043 4674 | www.outdoorfitness.hk dayle@outdoorfitness.hk Weight Watcher 2813 0814 kmahjoubian@weightwatchers.com.hk www.weightwatchers.com.hk Pilates Plus 9756 1659 | brubar@netvigator.com Nonie Studio 2333 2027 / 5198 9903 Hong Kong Rugby Football Union 6343 5303 | hebe.chung@hkrugby.com katherine.chan@hkrugby.com www.HKRugby.com

Get listed call 2776 2772 email marketing@saikung.com

The Reading Room (Sai Kung)

21 Sai Kung Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, New Territories 9199 5900 | seasidereadingroom@gmail.com Jackie Peers 9121 1470 jackie@jackiepeers.com | www.jackiepeers.com Hong Kong Arts Festival www.hk.artsfestival.org Chunky Onion Productions Ltd. 3188 1874 | birthdays@chunkyonion.com www.chunkyonion.com Affordable Art Fair www.affordableartfair/hongkong Dirty Dancing 2111 5999 | www.dirtydancingasia.com

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY China Light & Power Emergency Services 2728 8333 China Light & Power Customer Info Line 2678 2678 Electrical Appliance Repair Hong Kong Mr Ho 9846 8082 Sai Kung District Council 3740 5200 Sai Kung Fire Station 2792 1553 Sai Kung Police Station 3661 1630 / 2791 5129 Sai Kung Post Office 2792 2243 Typhoon Emergency Centre 2773 2222 Water Fault Reports 2811 0788 Water Supplies Department 2824 5000

Food & BEVERAGE South Stream Seafoods

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 Casteloconcepts 2869 1766 | www.casteloconcepts.com Colour Brown Coffee 2791 7128 | shop.colourbrown.com.hk Hebe One O One 2335 5515 info@101.com.hk | www.hebe101.com La Petite France 3403 9887 info@lapetitefrance.com.hk www.lapetitefrance.com.hk Natural Springs 2484 1388 | www.naturalsprings.hk Pacific Rich Resources (HK) Ltd 2316 7290 | office1@pacificrichresources.com Paisano’s Pizzeria (Sai Kung) 2791 4445 | www.paisanos.com.hk Pizza Express (Hong Kong) 2123 1083 | info@pizzaexpress.com.hk www.pizzaexpress.com.hk Organic Experience Management Group 2981 2888 | www.organicxp.com The Dutch www.thedutch.hk Top Chefs Food Services Ltd. 2358 2332 | http://tcdeli.com Edible Arrangements 2295 1108 / 2385 0158 www.EdibleArrangements.hk Green dot dot 3181 4488 | www.greendotdot.com

OTHER SERVICES Airstar 2264 0300 | facebook.com/aworldoflight Biocycle 3575 2575 | info@biocycle.hk | www.biocycle.com.hk Christian Environmental Health 2370 9236 | a-s-a-p@ceh.com.hk | www.ceh.com.hk Everfine Membership Services Limited 2174 7880 enquiry@evergolf.com.hk | www.evergolf.com.hk Grand Hyatt Hong Kong 2956 1234 http://hongkong.grand.hyatt.com Lunchbox Theatrical Productions 8203 0299 Sum Hing Carton Box Factory info@boxx.hk www.boxx.hk Federal Elite Consultants Ltd. 3568 4691 | info@federalelite.com King Kong Ping Pong info@kingkong-pingpong.com www.kingkong-pingpong.com Professional Wills Limited 2561 9031 | www.profwills.com

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Photo: Graham Uden

on patrol...

’ello ’ello ’ello

Ahoy matey! Tim Sharpe on safety at sea – and dealing with drunks. Boat brigade With spring in the air, many people will be looking at the islands off Sai Kung and planning to get out on the water to find their own piece of paradise away from the heaving masses. And, to be honest, it is hard to think of anything better. Boat owners will be familiar with the necessary pre-season checks, but for those who are taking to the water for the first time, by junk, speedboat or kayak, there are certain things to consider. First, ensure whatever type of craft you intend to use is in good working order. This includes checking the hull has no gouges or cracks, spare parts and first-aid kits are stocked, any engine is serviced, bilges are free of oil and the bilge pumps are working properly. Check emergency equipment – life jackets, life buoys, paddles, fire extinguishers and torches – is in good working order and any navigation lights and electrics are working properly.

The waters off Sai Kung are mostly covered by mobile telephone networks, but there are secluded areas where signal strength is minimal so ensure you have an alternative emergency signal device at hand. And if it has been a while since you ventured out, refresh your knowledge about the “rules of the road” and the maritime charts so you know where you are going and how to get there. For those who like to earn their seafood lunches the hard way (by kayaking, perhaps), ensure you are physically up to the challenge. After a day on the water, please secure your boat, leaving nothing of value on display. Install proper locks on hatches and entry points and secure any outboard engine as these are particularly prone to theft. Get to know others who keep their boats in the same area. By looking out for each other, you dramatically enhance the security of your boat. Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek the assistance from the Marine Police when out on the water.

photo competition Submit your shots 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. Happy snapping! This month’s winner: Dean Bailey "This photo was taken from a Sai Kung village house rooftop looking back toward Ma On Shan."

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Drunks on parade Dealing with drunks is part of a police officer’s life and we get our fair share in Sai Kung. People rolling out of the pubs in the town centre cause few problems as they wind their merry way home, but those coming by taxi from the city can be a different matter. A couple of times a month, usually early on Saturday mornings, an unhappy cabby drives up to the Sai Kung report room with a comatose drunk – usually a middle-aged, expat salaryman – in the back seat. Sometimes he has peed himself or been sick. We prod, poke, shout and cajole to waken the drunk, who then goes into Jekyll and Hyde mode of either being boorish, unpleasant and aggressive or wanting to be your best friend forever. Either way, dealing with them takes officers’ time and effort. And if the drunk requires medical treatment, an ambulance is called, which I resent as the problem is self-inflicted. Typically we use the drunk’s mobile to phone home to get his better half to collect him. She arrives looking suitably mortified at his often vomitstrewn state, apologises profusely, pays off the furious taxi driver and takes her husband home. I derive some satisfaction from knowing that the next morning she is going to give him HELL. I am not going to tsk-tsk about stereotypical drunken expats. By all means have a beer, but if it is getting out of hand – and we do have a number of regulars – seek professional help. Or do us all a favour and crash at the office to sleep it off. Cheers and keep safe. Tim Sharpe is the Police DVC for Sai Kung.

shoot for it

Small School, Big Ideas... creative and critical thinkers

reflective problem solvers

responsible members of the community knowledgable and skilled learners

Sai Kung CampuS opening auguSt 2013

effective communicators

applications are accepted on a rolling basis for pK1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; grade 12. For more details or to book into one of our upcoming information Sessions, please call 2655-1112. www.hkacademy.edu.hk