Picture: Graham Uden
March 2011
the planner 4 Happening in March The ides of March... The Sevens, Michael Buble and more
News 6 Democracy inaction A hoo-ha at Hoi Ha
Local Hero 10 Wayne Parfitt The restaurant king on packaging Sai Kung lifestyle
Boots 16 Rooster Hill Jackie Peers’ “nearly-favourite” local walk
Eating 18 Up for a Ruby? The scoop on curry Outdoors 20 Driving ranges Where to whack a ball
Village Focus 24 Po Toi O Gimme shelter: one of Clearwater Bay’s most beautiful coves Plus village snaps Schools 26 Notes on New Song The much-loved Christian kindergarten turns 20 Family 28 The Gate Mums rabbit on
Pets 32 Bed fellows Those who snooze together...
Gardening 34 The Good Life Sai Kung’s Felicity Kendal goes organic Marketplace 35 Guide to shops and services Cool stuff to buy and do Plus sudoku
29 Babes in the hoods Smart tops for little tots Cover Feature 12 Dream homes Our expert panel on when to sell, where to buy and how to renovate
Property 22 A Mok Tse Che conversion Can the rugger boys kick it? Yes, they can!
Health & Beauty 30 Ace the base How to buy and apply foundation
Back page 46 Last Orders turns off the telly Plus free stuff for you
23 Recent property transactions Wait! There’s more. Check out www.saikung.com
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planner Picture: Graham Uden
the best of March
Mar 25-27
Hong Kong Sevens
Mar 1-13 Power Plant A magical garden of quirky but beautiful sounds, illuminations and art installations blossoms nightly at the Kowloon Walled City Park. Entry at 8pm, 8.30pm, 9pm and 9.30pm. Tickets $20 from www.urbtix.hk. Closed Mar 7.
Mar 2 Quiz Night Thinking hats on, teams. 8.30pm, Hebe One O One, 112 Pak Sha Wan, 2335 5515.
Mar 4-6 108 Heroes, Tales from the Water Margin A new take for Chinese musical theatre, combining rock, pop, Chinese opera, kung fu, hip costumes and classic tales. Part of the Hong Kong Arts Festival (HKAF). Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $70-$420 from www.hkticketing. com, 3128 8288.
Mar 9-12 Macbeth One of the highlights of the HKAF, acclaimed international company Cheek by Jowl breathe vivid life into one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $60-$450 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
The biggest party of the year – 24 international rugby sevens teams scrum down on the pitch, 40,000 spectators whoop it up in the stands. Hong Kong Stadium, So Kon Po. Details at www.hksevens.com. It’s sold out, so get networking if you want tickets.
Mar 8-18 hong kong international literary festival Meet, hear and heckle a stellar lineup of authors from around the world in a series of events, readings and parties around Hong Kong. Info www.festival.org.hk.
Mar 13 Outward Bound Adventure Race The 10th annual race returns to home ground in Sai Kung, as teams of four follow an extreme course from Pak Tam Chung to Sai Kung town. From 7.30am. Details at www.outwardbound.com.hk.
Canadian crooner Michael Bublé brings his Crazy Love Tour to the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre. Tickets $588-$1,588 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
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Join the monthly race around the countryside. Details at sites.google.com/ site/saikungsaturdayh3.
Mar 20 Katherine Jenkins
Mar 16 artwalk
The classical music superstar sings at the Convention Centre, Wan Chai. Tickets $380-$1,280 from www.hkticketing.com.
Hong Kong’s most fun art event – a stagger around the best galleries in town. We don’t know much about art but we like the wine. 5pm-midnight. Tickets $450 (students $150) from www.hongkongartwalk.com.
Mar 20-Apr 5 35th Hong Kong International Film Festival
Mar 16 Quiz Night Mar 11 Michael Bublé
Mar 19 Hash run
Get those brains in gear. 8.30pm, Hebe One O One, 112 Pak Sha Wan, 2335 5515.
Highlights this year include films by Romanian, Vietnamese and US indie directors, including Oscarnominated “Winter’s Bone”. For the full programme and tickets, visit www.hkiff.org.hk.
Mar 18 the Eagles
Mar 24 Darts Open
The veteran rockers land in Hong Kong on their “Long Road Out of Eden” tour. HKCEC, Wan Chai. Tickets $588-$2,088 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
Hebe One O One is holding a darts tournament open to all players. Entry $100, including two standard drinks. To enter, email info@101.com.hk by March 20.
cover planner feature
Book Now!
Mar 28-Jul 11 Pixar – 25 Years of Animation Exhibition that goes behind the scenes of blockbuster children’s movies such as “Toy Story”, “Finding Nemo” and “Wall-E”. Hong Kong Heritage Museum, 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin, hk.heritage.museum.
Apr 1-3 Scotty and Lulu in Outer Space
Apr 29 A Right Royal Wedding Party
Hong Kong’s favourite clowns are out of this world. Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $188-$388 from www.hkticketing. com, 3128 8288.
Hebe Haven Yacht Club is having a knees-up to celebrate the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. As well as a live broadcast of the nuptials, it’s throwing a street party with dancing, prizes, British carvery, champagne toast and lashings of bunting. From 5.30pm (wedding at 6pm, buffet 7.30pm). Tickets $390, including dinner and two drinks, from HHYC, 2719 9682, hhyc@ hhyc.org.hk (book through a club member).
Apr 2-5 barney’s space adventures
Mar 30 MGMT
The big purple dinosaur and friends blast off for an intergalactic adventure on the Perfectly Purple Planet. (Maybe they’ll bump into Scotty and Lulu?) Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $100-$500 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288. (See page 46 to win free tickets.)
Top of the psychedelic popsters. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $580 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
Apr 12 bob dylan
Mar 30 Quiz Night One month, three quizzes. 8.30pm, Hebe One O One, 112 Pak Sha Wan, 2335 5515.
The big names just keep on coming... next up the legendary Bob Dylan. Star Hall, KITEC. Tickets $580-$980 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
May 3-15 Riverdance the Farewell Tour Last chance to see the flying limbs of the Irish dancers. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $35-$950 from www. hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.
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news
in the know
Hoi Ha hoo-ha There’s trouble in paradise as the tiny seaside village of Hoi Ha finds itself embroiled in an election controversy.
Idyllic Hoi Ha, a tiny seaside village in the furthest reaches of Sai Kung Country Park, looks calm and beautiful on a fine spring morning. But behind the scenery an acrimonious battle is being fought over way the village is run. It is a tussle that touches on an issue affecting scores of villages where local populations have ebbed away and new, largely expatriate, populations have moved in. When it comes to village matters, how much voice should "outsiders" have compared with indigenous populations? Already, the police, the ICAC, the Home Affairs Department and the Department of Justice have been drawn into the Hoi Ha issue – all over an election that involved two candidates and just 20 votes. In the January election for resident representative – a post created by the government eight years TS Yung ago to give residents a greater say in village affairs – David Newbery was defeated 11 votes to nine by Yung Tin-sang. The two men live just 20 metres apart in the centre of Hoi Ha. Newbery is a British pilot who has lived in the village for 16 years and owns a house there. Yung is a 71-year-old grandfather and an indigenous villager born in Hoi Ha. Newbery insists he has nothing personal against the victor. He just believes Yung should never have been allowed to stand because, Newbery says, he moved to Britain in 1994 and only returned to the village full-time last summer. According to government guidelines, candidates for the election must have been a resident of the village for six years with the village address as their primary residence, although the precise criteria for a primary residence are not spelled out.
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"I have been in the village for 16 years and for most of that time I've only seen him for a few weeks in a year," Newbery said. "I wrote to the returning officer a couple of days after the nominations closed. The returning officer had the power to look at things and say your nomination isn't acceptable. They only had to look at the immigration records." For his part, Yung confirms he moved to Britain with his family in 1994. But, speaking through his daughter Ching Yung, 33, who returned to Hoi Ha with him, says his extended stay in Britain was for treatment for diabetes. "He always lived here but because of medical reasons he has to go back to Britain for check-ups," Ms Yung said. "When he put his name
residents to discuss what needs doing in the village and how it can be improved. "The first thing we need to improve is the environment," she said. "It is a bit messy. It's like a jungle. No one looks after it... We want to give the village a better environment and make it a better place to live." Newbery, who stood on a platform that included enforcing planning regulations in Hoi Ha, acknowledges that he and Mr Yung have many common goals. "We're establishing a relationship," he said. "[Ms Yung] wants to bring people together to form a village committee. We might well end up doing something good." However, he is continuing to press for clarification over the precise criteria for resident representative. He was told his complaint to the returning officer about Yung's candidacy had been investigated by the police and the ICAC and David Newbery down as a candidate he filled that advice had then been out a form saying how long he had sought from the Department of been living here and how often he was here. Justice on whether there was a case We even phoned up a government officer to to answer. It was decided no offence had been check and they said it should be fine." committed and the complaint was dismissed. Yung, she insisted, had now settled back in Newbery now has until March to lodge a the village for good. They returned, Ms Yung petition – which he must finance – which will said, because they noticed problems developing effectively result in a court hearing over the as Hoi Ha became more populated and an legality of the election. increasingly popular destination for weekend Whatever the outcome of the battle of visitors. Hoi Ha, Newbery is convinced that the debate "It has lost its culture,” she said. “It used to over politics and conservation in the New be quiet and peaceful. All the neighbours talked Territories has moved to a new level. The 2003 to each other. They would help each other. But introduction of resident representatives was an every time we came back, people would be important first step. complaining about each other. There was quite "It was wrong that people who live in a a lot of trouble. That's why we wanted my dad village and have a long-term commitment to to come out and fix it and make it better. We that village had no say in terms of what was need to get together as a village." happening there," he said. “Villages have to be Ms Yung said she had been in touch with run for the people who live there as well as for Newbery and invited him to join a group of the indigenous villagers."
VS
Refugee
news
On patrol... Acting Chief Police Inspector Grace Mak Ka-po writes Some people think the police are interested only in issuing tickets to illegally parked cars and catching criminals. But that’s only part of our job. Police can’t keep Sai Kung safe without the cooperation and participation of the community. The public really are our eyes and ears in fighting crime. For example, last month a helper in Hing Keng Shek reported some suspicious persons near her home. When we checked, they were on genuine business, but we really appreciate her alertness and enthusiasm as a good example to others. For the past year, police volunteers have been working with the Sai Kung Caritas Elderly Centre, visiting elderly people living alone in such villages as Nam Shan, Kap Pin Long and Sha Kok Mei. They chat like friends, and offer useful information about the latest street deceptions and other tips. In recognition of the volunteers’ work, the centre kindly awarded them certificates in a recent ceremony at the Community Hall. It was a happy occasion, and I hope this spirit of helping neighbours lasts a long time.
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More than 1,100 people entered the Geopark Festival’s “Magnificent Rocks and Magic Cameras” photo contest. The open scenic category was won by Leung Chung-ho, who took this shot at Tung Ping Chau. See it at www.geoparkfestival.com.
A taste of France A new French cultural centre is opening in Sai Kung. La Petite France is offering French language lessons as well as courses in those classically French passions: food, wine, literature and cinema. It’s the brainchild of two couples, French linguist Olivier Malet and his Hong Kong businesswoman wife, Patty Lo, and their France-based partners Christophe Martin and Stephanie Poulain, who will be sourcing products for the new venture. “It is a kind of small island of France in Hong Kong,” Malet explains. “I noticed my students were interested in more than the language. They want to know more about French people and their culture, which is what we offer.” So there will be wine-tasting sessions and courses, gourmet dinners and an extensive library of French films and books. “Our purpose is to be a window on France, a kind of summary of ‘la vie à la Française’,” Malet says. “We want people to feel they are entering a small place in France when they come to our centre.” La Petite France opens this month at Block C, 787 Po Tung Road (near Curves), 2719 0082, www.lapetitefrance.com.hk.
local hero Publisher & Executive Editor Tom Hilditch Tom@saikung.com Editorial Jane Steer Jane@saikung.com Adele Rosi Adele@saikung.com Art Direction Eric Luk Eric@saikung.com Accounts May Oul Yong May@saikung.com Advertising Richard Tse Richard@saikung.com Heung Sai Sai@saikung.com Alfonso Lee Alfonso@saikung.com
Wayne Parfitt
Restaurateur Wayne Parfitt has built an international empire by repackaging the spirit of Sai Kung in restaurants such as Jaspas, Cru and Pepperonis.
I love Sai Kung. It’s home. My wife and I came out to Hong Kong in 1991. It was the best thing we ever did. I took a job working in a restaurant in Central for a year and then, spotting a void in the market, we decided to open our own place in Sai Kung. That was Pepperonis, 19 years ago.
Distribution Polly Lee Polly@saikung.com
When we started Pepperonis, we did it all ourselves. We used secondhand equipment, whatever we could throw together. In the first month we made $43,000 and I thought we were the richest people in the world.
Contributors Graham Uden Aani Andriani Becky Merrett Dr Carmel Taylor MVB Denise Li Iain Lafferty Jackie Peers Liz Remington Tingting Peng Zoe Byron Guy Shirra
We kept reinvesting our money back into the restaurants. I brought my brother, Brian, into the business about 17 years ago. And it just kept on growing. We opened Al Fresco's, a little restaurant across the road that has now gone, and then we opened Jaspas. We got more confident. We went to Stanley first, and then Central, then Vietnam. We’ve been in Vietnam for 16 years and have 37 outlets there.
Printer Gear Printing
Basically, we have taken Sai Kung’s casual lifestyle and packaged it in our restaurants. We try to take the country to the city. That’s been our business plan.
Published by Fast Media P.O. Box 291, Sai Kung Sai Kung 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. Sai Kung 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 pubishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.
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Today we have more than 2,000 staff.
I love the village atmosphere and the great beaches. We spend three to four days on the water each week. I would never leave. What we do is try to encourage our friends to move out here.
Asia is easy for business. The Western world is over-governed. Everything is over-taxed and there is too much red tape. We are also in Australia and I sometimes wish we weren’t.
A new generation of Hong Kong people are waking up to the benefits of Sai Kung. The clean air, the space, the awesome landscape. It’s an amazing place to raise a family.
The secret of creating a great restaurant? Easy – great staff. Pick the right people from the start, give them ownership and make it fun to go to work. Our staff run the restaurants and we stay out their way. In Hong Kong, we have career people who have been with us for 20 years. Sing at Jaspas in the square, is a great example.
I am happy for Hiram’s Highway to be widened but I hope they never ever bring an MTR line here. We would lose everything. It’s the small businesses that make the town and give it character – the pharmacist, the veggie guys, the stationers. I don’t think people want to see the big chains here. If we don’t get an MTR, we can stay small and stay unique.
mr big
My favourite restaurant in Sai Kung is May’s Sawaddee Thailand restaurant. Authentic food. Smiling service. Good atmosphere and great value. She’s done a fantastic job. The boating in Sai Kung is world class. The islands are amazing. I have a 55-foot Sunseeker power boat. We are on it all the time. Jaspas Party Junks started by accident. I bought a junk for the family 10 years ago, when the kids were starting to swim. We put a big barbecue with a big grill plate on the boat, brought along a chef and invited our friends. After three of four trips they said, “How cool is this? Can we rent it from you.” It grew from there. Now we have six Jaspas Party Junks and are on the hunt for a bigger boat – an 80- or 100-footer – for the next level. I don't think I will quit. But when my kids (Wayne has a 20-year-old daughter and two teenage sons) are older, I plan on taking a back seat and letting them hold the reins. We are busy as ever. We have just finished Oolaa in Central, which is going really, really well. And we have just developed a new brand – a steakhouse called Roccos – which we will bring to Sai Kung soon. If I was advising the local authorities? I’d say encourage more outdoor dining in the square and the seafront. There is a lot we could do to promote Sai Kung. We have a fantastic old town. We’ve got fantastic beaches and the best seafood restaurants in the territory. If that was all packaged properly it would be very cool. Local shops and businesses would benefit hugely. I would love to see the old village grow and see the lovely boutique shops get more traffic. Rents are a big factor in our business. The first rent I paid in Sai Kung for Pepperonis was $3,400. It’s not much more now. The landlord is the nicest guy in the world and he has looked after us well. Actually, rents in Sai Kung are reasonable. It’s Central that’s out of control. The best advice I’ve been given? Never be scared to say, “I can’t afford it.” I have no intention of ever leaving Sai Kung. They will have to cart me out of here in a pine box.
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boots
cock a hoop
Crowing about Rooster Hill Jackie Peers does her nearly-favourite walk: Stage 3 of the MacLehose Trail.
Difficulty: Length:
How up is up? Well, in my opinion, that depends on how hot it is. Take, for example, Stage 3 of the MacLehose Trail. Straight away, you find yourself climbing steeply from the starting point at Pak Tam Au (on the way to Hoi Ha in Sai Kung Country Park) to the top of Ngam Tau Shan (451m). In winter, you can take two steps at a time, bounding up like someone with a plane to catch. But on a hot summer’s day, with the sun beating down and no shade in sight, it’s a different story. Every step can seem an effort, and you feel like pausing after every fifth stair to catch your breath. On those days even Fergus, my ever-eager companion, will flop down behind a tussock and look up as if to say, “Rest time, Mum!” Hot or cold, from the summit there’s a wonderful view of Long Harbour and the Sai Kung peninsula, and there’s a period of respite as you make your way through gorgeous terrain, some of it former Hakka rice fields, with Sai Kung’s coastal beauty spread out before you. At the Cheung Sheung campsite you can dabble your feet in the stream – watch out for cow pats. Does the old lady in the store still serve tofu? Perhaps someone can enlighten me. Don’t get too relaxed; there are more climbs coming. Wa Mei Shan and Lui Ta Shek are both about 400m. I still remember my companions’ looks
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3 hours, but allow 4 for a picnic and enjoying the views
of horror the first time we did this hike, as they looked across at the steep track winding up the eastern side of Kai Kung Shan (Rooster Hill). “Surely that’s not our trail!” they wailed. “Ummm… I believe so!” What a lovely forested hill, though, with great views from the top and a long shaded drop down to Long Shui Wo. I always say that Stage 4 of the How to get there: take the MacLehose is my favourite Hong Kong 94 from Sai Kung to Pak Tam hike. It’s the one I do most often, and Au, and then the 99 or 299 the one that will remain mostly firmly from the end of the trail back. in my heart after I leave. But every And if you haven’t done if time I do Stage 3 I enjoy it immensely, before, get in quickly before it and wonder to myself whether it heats up! shouldn’t be my favourite too... Jackie Peers is a director of Walk Hong Kong, a unique company that reveals Hong Kong to visitors. She also runs photography courses in the Sai Kung area. Details at www.walkhongkong.com.
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eating Fancy a curry? Indian food is one of the world’s favourite cuisines. Here’s where to find the hot stuff. The Village 1E Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2791 2525. This family-run restaurant offers one of the warmest welcomes in town, with mum and dad working the stoves, soccer-playing son Becks running the front-of-house and daughter Renu smiling from the signage. The decor is as simple as the service is genuine, with walls plastered in pictures of customers (“Our regulars stay in touch even after they’ve left Hong Kong,” says Becks) and outdoor tables for alfresco meals. The food is a delicious mixture of Indian and Malaysian curries, with top sellers including tandoori chicken ($75), roasted fish in banana leaf ($108) and beef rendang ($78). The set dinner for two is a steal at $260, with four starters, a choice of main, naan, rice and two drinks (including beer or wine). And don’t miss the authentic Indian chai. Delivery available in Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay.
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AJ’s Sri Lankan Cuisine 14 Sai Kung Hoi Pong Street, 2792 2555. “Sri Lankan food uses the same spices as Indian food, but in different combinations. And we use lots of coconut milk, which means the curries are lighter and less oily,” explains AJ’s owner, Eva. Try it for yourself with such house specials as the kothu roti (roti bread stir fried with vegetables, onions, egg and your choice of meat; from $70), the eggplant moju (fried eggplant, onion and green chillies in a mustard vinaigrette) or lamb black curry ($69). Or try the rice and curry combo – a thali-style selection of little dishes, plus dhal, spiced potato, green bean, mallum and achoru ($169). Delivery available in Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay.
JoJo Indian Cuisine M/F, 21 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, 2547 7477. JoJo Mess is a Wan Chai institution. So when it opened a branch upstairs at Bacco, Sai Kung curry-lovers rubbed their hands in anticipation. We weren’t disappointed. The extensive menu includes all our favourites – rogan josh ($78), chicken balti ($78), saag paneer ($62) – as well as more unusual dishes such as Goan speciality prawn with cinnamon and garlic ($98) and mud pot cooked lamb ($78) from Andra Pradesh. Explore. Delivery to Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay. Steamers 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991. Curry and beer is a match made, if not in
tandoori nights
Nibbles heaven, then in pretty much every British high street. Steamers has long had a rep for good curry, including a fine biryani. Other bestsellers include lamb curry, chicken makhani and Britain’s favourite dish, chicken tikka masala (all $90). Best eaten alfresco in Steamers’ biggest attraction – its terrace. Last food orders, 10pm. Agua Plus 72-74 Po Tung Road, 2791 2030 Agua Plus scored a bit of a coup when it lured Indian chef Madan away from Steamers. Suddenly, almost every table is ordering food, unable to resist the delicious whiffs of passing dishes. The menu may not be extensive, but it features all the Indian favourites at $82-$85, with your choice of meat or vegetables. It also offers chicken tikka, chicken tikka masala and rogan josh (all $82), aloo or keema mutter ($85), and a bunch of classic starters. Hungry?
New European cafe Bistro 33 has snaffled the prime spot on Man Nin Street formerly occupied by Watsons. Due to open this month, it will be serving fine coffee and upmarket “fast food” – think panini, salad and Italian gelato – in a stylish setting. Look for the terrace tables out back. Takeaway joint Roast Sai Kung is due to open this month, offering a mouthwatering array of rotisserie chicken and roasted beef, pork and veggies in Western and Asian styles. Mention Sai Kung Magazine, and you’ll get a 10 per cent discount until March 31. Open 7am-10.30pm, opposite the library at Shop 16, King Man Street, Sai Kung. Rugby sevens fans who failed to score tickets can console themselves at Hebe One O One, which will be showing
the event live on the big screen. March 2527, 112 Pak Sha Wan, 2335 5515. Classified is running free wine tastings on the first and third Sunday of every month (March 6 and 20), 2pm-4pm. The wines will be on sale at discounted prices after the tastings. 5 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, 2529 3454. With Paisano’s going from strength to strength, owner Al Morales has been on a shopping spree. His top purchase: a white Mercedes-Benz with a vanity number plate, PAISANOS. Give him a wave. 27 Chan Man Street, 2791 4445.
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outdoors
fore!
The five-star facilities at Island Golf Driving Range, Tseung Kwan O.
Swing club At home on the five-star driving range. Whether you need to work on your swing, teach junior about golf or just feel like thwacking a few balls, head down to the driving range. The biggest and newest in the area is Island Golf Club Driving Range in Tseung Kwan O. This 538,000-square-foot luxury club has 166 practice bays, a deli and pro shop. The driving bays are on two levels and each tee has a 270-degree sea view. It was opened just over a year ago by four entrepreneurs who got to know each other while serving on the board of the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, the territory’s leading medical charity. “We are all huge golf fans,” explained co-founder William Chan, who is also managing director of the Waldorf Hotel, Macau. “And felt it would be great to mix our business with the hobby we love.” The result – Island Golf Club Driving Range – is the area’s largest and most luxurious range. “We wanted to build something that would be a five-star destination,” said William Tam, another partner, whose day job is running Hong Kong’s largest outdoor neon light firm. “So we have focused on quality construction, great design and service. Our staff speak both English and Cantonese. Most driving ranges in Hong Kong are temporary structures on derelict land. We wanted to create something much more high end and enduring.” The club, which was completed in February 2010, was designed by award-winning architect Barrie Ho. It has lots of parking, luxury changing facilities, and a big emphasis on service and social responsibility. “One of our aims is to give children the chance to learn the game,” Tam explained. “We have special days for local schoolchildren to visit and also do a lot of fundraising for local causes through our membership.” Win free membership of Island Golf Club Driving Range, see page 46. Parties and special events can also be arranged. Island Golf Club Driving Range, 3 Chi Shin Street, Tseung Kwan O, 2513 9888, info@islandgolf.com.hk, www.islandgolf.com.hk.
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Address the ball Places to perfect your play. Express Golf This indoor golf simulator lets you play on PGA Tour courses internationally, without ever leaving a small dark room in MegaBox. Children’s courses available. 7/F, MegaBox, 38 Wang Chiu Road, Kowloon Bay, 2359 0022, enquiry@expressgolf.com.hk, www. expressgolf.com.hk. Garden Farm Golf Garden Farm Golf has 93 driving bays, grass areas for chipping, putting and teeing off, and 10 sand bunkers. Children’s facilities available. 8C, Tseng Tau Village, Shap Sze Heung, Sai Sha Road, 2791 9098, www.gardenfarmgolf.com Kau Sai Chau Set on the beautiful public golf course, the driving range has 61 bays with floodlighting, real grass practice tees, plus club house, lessons and other facilities. No booking required. Kau Sai Chau, 2791 3341, www.kscgolf.org.hk. Whitehead Golf Set on the edge of lovely Tolo Harbour, this driving range has 160 real grass driving bays, lessons, a barbecue area, kite flying, bicycle rental and snooker. Lok Wo Sha Lane, Ma On Shan, 2631 9900, 2633 8118, www.whiteheadclub.com.
property
A team effort When it came to tackling this conversion, the rugby-player owners went straight to the top: the captain’s wife.
It takes a team to renovate a house – in this case, the Hong Kong rugby team. Well, three of them. When they bought this Mok Tse Che house, it was divided into three units. A flanker bought one, passed the ball to former captain Andrew Chambers, who bought a second, and a third player scored the last apartment. A few years later, they went for the conversion. Every team needs a captain, and in this case there was an obvious candidate – Andrew’s wife, Gemma. She took on the job of turning the separate apartments into one beautiful home. She put the rugby players to work in the garden, and took on most of the design work herself, coordinating the project and managing the contractors. The result is a modern, warm family home with an open-plan ground floor and five bedrooms, two of which are en-suite. Bi-fold doors off the kitchen and living area lead out to a large terrace overlooking the private pool – a bright splash of turquoise against the neutral colour palette of the downstairs spaces.
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home game
Picture: Graham Uden / hkaerial.com
Marina Cove: $23.8m for 2,064 sqft.
Recent property transactions The centrally placed kitchen – all glossy white countertop and chic stainless steel – neatly separates the living and dining areas, and a door coated with blackboard paint adds a fun touch. Upstairs, the children’s rooms are glorious bursts of colour, with rainbow-hued furniture and accessories set against white walls. A favourite room is the master en-suite bathroom, which has a giant standalone tub positioned in front of a picture window. Communal bath, anyone? For more details, contact Megan Inglis at Sotheby’s International Realty, 9819 7870.
Property Floral Villa Marina Cove 'J' Marina Cove 'C' Costa Bello Greenview Garden Razor Park Ng Fai Tin Clover Lodge Yan Yee Road Jade Villa
sqft 2,507 2,064 1,885 1,261 1,315 1,220 2,100 2,100 2,100 1,400
Price $26.8m $23.8m $15.8m $10.5m $8.5m $9.98m $22m $12.6m $13m $8.28m
$/sqft 10,690 11,531 8,382 8,326 6,463 8,180 10,476 6,000 6,190 5,914
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village focus Po Toi O This tiny fishing community in Clearwater Bay is a tourist hotspot, thanks to its charm, isolation and fine seafood.
Picture: Graham Uden / hkaerial.com
Some places just ooze charm – even on a gloomy Wednesday afternoon. Po Toi O is not smart, wealthy or particularly beautiful, but it’s always a pleasure to be there. After all, what’s not to like about a community that provides chairs at the minibus stop? Po Toi O has an authenticity that most villages in the area lost years ago. This is a fishing village that still fishes. It gets its name from its location – a sheltered, sack-shaped bay in the outer
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reaches of Clearwater Bay. The village itself is little more than a temple and a collection of small houses, shacks and fish farms. On that wintry Wednesday, Po Toi O was quietly going about its business: old ladies played mahjong, others looked after their grandchildren, blessings were sought in the temple, and well-fed cats licked their paws outside deserted seafood stalls. Every house was newly dressed with door gods, and many front doors were ajar – an open invitation to neighbours and relatives. Perhaps that’s not surprising in a place where almost everyone has the same name – Po. Come the weekend, and the atmosphere changes. Sunny Sundays see the car-free main street thronged with
way out east
Village snaps
Pictures: Jane Steer
visitors and lined with small stalls selling dried seafood in all its slightly weird glory. But the main draw for tourists is its two large seafood restaurants, Fat Kee and Seafood Islands. Both have an open-air vibe, tanks full of fish and crustacea, and busy, efficient kitchens. Until recently, Seafood Islands used the village pier as extra restaurant space, but one of those fun-sucking government notices about land use seems to have put paid to that for the time being. On the hill above the village, just beyond an interesting group of graves, lie two luxury housing developments: Seacrest Villas – the newer of the two, with a pleasant communal garden and children’s playground – and Fairway Vista, which has a dozen houses, some with sea views, and a rather ferocious security guard.
WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 25
schools
classy
A note on New Song Pre-schoolers get a head start at New Song Christian Kindergarten, which educates the “whole child” – body and soul. New Song Christian Kindergarten celebrates its 20th anniversary next month. It’s seen a lot of children through its doors in that time, and each has benefited from the pre-school’s warm, inclusive environment and its policy of treating each child as an individual. “At New Song, we believe all children are created unique and special by God and should be cared for in a loving environment,” says acting principal Karina Slattery. “Each child’s needs, interests and abilities are nurtured so every child can be an important member of the class. We believe every child has a positive contribution to make and the experience at school needs to be directed at the whole child – the body, emotions, intellect and spirit.”
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New Song is based at Floral Villas, just eight minutes from Sai Kung, where it has an air-conditioned classroom and expansive playroom. Four qualified, registered teachers run two classes a day (9am-noon, 1pm-4pm) for K1, K2 and K3 children, with up to 40 children a session. Playgroup sessions for children aged one to three, with a parent or helper, are held from 3pm-4.30pm on Thursdays and Fridays. The curriculum is theme based. Each theme lasts two to four weeks, and incorporates music, drama, craft, singing, movement, a daily Putonghua lesson and biblical topics. There are also visits to such places as the Lions park, Sha Tin Road Safety Park, Hong Kong Science Museum and Kadoorie Farm.
“These trips are a valuable learning experience for children and are a great opportunity for parents/guardians to join in,” Karina says. There is plenty of time for free play with the sand pit, water play, dress-up clothes, cars and bicycles. Children also receive a daily snack provided by the school. “We believe a child needs to feel loved before they can begin to have a positive learning experience,” Karina explains. “A warm and loving classroom and school community is essential for maximising a child’s potential. When children come to leave us, we are confident they can hit the primary-school playground running.” For more details, contact New Song Christian Kindergarten at Floral Villas, 18 Tso Wo Road, Sai Kung, 2791 2472, newsong@ netvigator.com, www.newsonghk.com. A school bus service is available.
WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 27
family schools The Gate How to be a Rabbit Mother I have read with interest articles about the self-styled Tiger Mother. She has caused ripples through the parenting community – some view the author as severe, others applaud her no-nonsense attitude and total commitment to her children’s achievements. While I wish her and her children all the best, I am not a Tiger Mother by nature. I lack the claws. At our Gate there are two camps when it comes to what is most important to our children: the work-hard gang and play-hard gang. Some children are so tightly scheduled after school I am surprised they find the time to sleep. If it’s not extra tuition in the core curriculum subjects, it’s hours of music/ballet/sport. I believe my children should have time to create and explore in their own space – even if this is increasingly done on a computer. Or by shooting the dog with a nerf gun. Or fighting each other. They do have some extracurricular activities but, thankfully, I’ve managed to find a fabulous guitar teacher who prefers Cold Play to endless studies and the children take part in sports voluntarily. No coercion needed. In the spirit of this Chinese New Year, I have decided to style myself as Rabbit Mother. The yin
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to the Tiger Mother’s yang. What are the qualities that define Rabbit Mother parenting? I am not including two of the more well-known cuniculus traits – the rabbit’s reproductive abilities and its penchant for eating its own poo. Mental fluffiness is a good starting point. The Rabbit Mother has the memory and concentration span of a goldfish (even when sober). This means her children are independent and self-reliant as they realize early on that their mother is totally useless. Twitchiness makes the list, too. Especially after excess caffeine. This can lead to erratic parenting as the children never know what part of the rollercoaster ride you’re on. Keeps them on their toes. Timidity – especially when faced with a Tiger Mother. This is character-building stuff for the offspring: unable to rely on their wimpy mother to stand ground for them, they learn to fight their own corner. Caught in the headlights. This is when a Rabbit Mother tries to desperately dig herself out of a social situation but freezes on the spot. At these times the offspring have to use their wits to help mother and swerve potential embarrassment. It develops quick reflex reactions and promotes problem solving. Move over Shere Khan. It’s time for the Wabbit to have her day. Mother-in-the-Middle
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Babes in the hoods Meet Little Local’s Hong Kong-style hoodies. Sai Kung resident Michelle French has launched Little Local, a sweet line of children’s hoodies bearing Hong Kong icons such as trams and taxis. “Coming from New Zealand, I would go home on holiday and see all the kids wearing great tops showing off fabulous New Zealand icons and being so proud of where they come from,” she explains. “But there was nothing my kids could wear that showed off how cool it was to live in Hong Kong, so I decided to do something about it.” She went for simple, high-quality, funky hoodies without the usual touristy overkill on design and colour. Made in 100 per cent cotton, each has a simple line drawing of a fan, a Bauhinia symbol, a tram or a taxi on the front, with fun facts about the icon on the inside neck. The hood lining is in a contrasting colour, matching the icon on the front.
Available online, each is delivered beautifully gift wrapped with a customised ribbon and a free gift card. “I'm hoping my garments will be enjoyed by many families and worn proudly to help show off what a fascinating and dynamic place Hong Kong is – especially when you are a kid,” Michelle says. She hopes the hoodies will be the start of a larger collection. She has plans for T-shirts, baby rompers, bibs, pyjamas, baby wraps and cushions bearing a much wider selection of Hong Kong icons. For details and to order, visit www.littlelocal.net, email hello@littlelocal.net or call 9303 7471.
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100% NATURAL HUMAN HAIR EXTENSION H A I R
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health & beauty Laying the foundation Adele Rosi aces the base.
BEFORE
AFTER Central M/F., No.4 Shelley Street, Soho, Central (off Hollywood Road, Opposite Pure Fitness) Tel: 2521 9333 Fax: 2521 9393
Sai Kung G/F., No. 56 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, N.T. Tel: 2335 1694 Fax: 2335 1014
Website: www. Talashairbeautycentre.com Email: info@talashairandbeautycentre.com
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According to Vogue magazine, choosing the perfect foundation for your face is like trying to find your dream jeans: both need to look great, feel comfy, hide any less-than-perfect bits and make us appear younger with minimum effort. Little wonder, then, that many women run scared from foundation. Although it can be a godsend – camouflaging imperfections, balancing skin tone and acting as a base (hence its name) for makeup – it can be more hindrance than help. If the shade is even slightly too pale or too dark for your skin, you’ll end up looking unattractively waxen or, worse, a permatanned orange. Once you hit your 40s, the last thing you’ll want is to advertise any fine lines or wrinkles, which powdery or shimmery foundation will do. Choose the wrong texture and you’ll look and feel as though you’ve slapped concrete on your face. But get it right and your complexion will appear evenly toned, smooth and practically flawless. Before getting stuck in the colour conundrum there are several types of foundation from which to choose. Liquid foundation is easiest to work with – choose oil-free formulae for oily or combination skins and in hot weather. Cream foundation in stick or pancake form is heavier; dual-finish products can be mixed with water for light coverage or applied dry if more cover is required. Take a mirror compact when you’re shopping for foundation. Select two or three products closest to your skin tone and apply a strip of each next to your jaw line. Go for yellow rather than pink-based shades – they are more natural and suit most skin colours. Then step outside into natural light and check the mirror: whichever shade you can’t see is the one for you. Contrary to what your mother may have told you, it doesn’t work to apply a tester onto your hand or inner wrist because the skin there is unlikely to be the exact shade of your facial complexion. So test on your chops. Foundation should be applied sparingly to a clean, moisturised face with a wedge-shaped synthetic sponge. (If you have oily skin, use a mattifying, oil-free moisturiser.) Apply it to the centre of cheeks and forehead and dot it on blemishes and reddish areas, such as around the nostrils, with a concealer brush. Blend gently outwards to the edges of your face for even coverage, going slightly up into your hairline if you are wearing your hair back and below the jawline to the neck to avoid the “tidemark” effect. If you’ve been a bit heavy-handed, blot away excess with a tissue but don’t scrub at it. Some beauty experts suggest applying concealer after foundation only if needed; others, such as makeup guru Bobbi Brown, advocate using it first – especially under the eyes. To “set” your foundation, brush yellow-based powder over the skin using downward strokes or pat on with a powder puff. The shade of foundation that matches your skin will probably change with the seasons. In summer, either choose a darker shade or mix a bit of bronzing liquid into your winter foundation in the palm of your hand, taking care to avoid the fake-tan look.
smooth and soothe
Beauty spot Pain relief Good news for Sai Kung’s athletes, weekend warriors and anyone with aches and pains. The Sai Kung Orthopedic Physiotherapy and Pain Centre (SKOPPC) has opened around the corner from the Wilson car park on Chan Man Road. It is Sai Kung’s first multi-disciplinary centre, offering a wide range of othopedic and physiotherapy services including in- and out-patient orthopedic surgery, sport injuries rehabilitation, manual and exercise therapy, clinical Pilates, orthotic prescription and ergonomic supplies for home and office. The centre is the brainchild of a group of friends all born and bred in Sai Kung and working in healthcare professions. Tired of trekking out to different districts for orthopedic consultations and physiotherapy treatments, they decided a “one-stop shop” was needed for their own neighbourhood – and the SKOPPC was born. The centre has adopted an east-meets-west approach, combining state-of-the-art equipment with tried-andtested traditional Chinese methods such as acupuncture. Currently, it has two experienced practitioners: Dr Anthony Chan Wai-fu, a specialist in orthopedics and traumatology for 14 years, and Australia-trained Ada
Kwong, who has had extensive experience of treating sport injuries, back and neck pain. She is also a certified acupuncturist and Clinical Pilates Instructor. The centre also provides health talks and a free monthly body-check service to improve public understanding of health and its east-meets-west physiotherapy concept. Although rates are mid-range – about $600 per consultation – the centre offers several pro bono treatments a week for the needy. Shop 70, 22-40 Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung, tel: 2792 9366. Open Monday-Friday 10am-8pm, and Saturday 10am-5pm. Enjoy a 25% discount on your first physiotherapy session at SKOPPC, see page 46 for details. Melting touch New from leading British skincare brand Elemis is Melting Cleansing Gel – a dual-phase cleanser that emulsifies into soft milk on contact with warm water, leaving skin super-clean, radiant and refreshed. It contains all sorts of wonderful-sounding goodies – argan oil, assai fruit, rice silk and rosemary leaf – which eliminate shine, protect the skin and prevent it from getting too dry or overstimulated. $380 from Joyce Beauty Festival Walk and all other Elemis spas and counters.
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pets It’s catching Curling up with your pet may mean sharing more than a bed, warns Dr Carmel Taylor. An affectionate cuddle or a slobbery lick from your pet can be the ultimate stress reliever – but is it sharing more than unconditional love? Dr Bruno Chomel, author of a recent article in the Journal of Emerging Infectious Diseases, warns that the growing number of people curling up at night with their furry friends (as many as 62 per cent of pet owners worldwide) are at risk of contracting zoonoses. This does not, as my daughter concluded, mean they will grow amusing snouts. Zoonoses are diseases that are passed from animals to humans, some with serious consequences. But before you banish Fido or Fluffy from the sack, let’s get some perspective on this. Most zoonoses are caused by improperly cooked meat, not pet interaction. And many cases in the review involved people with severely compromised immune systems or those who engaged in bizarre behaviour, and over a very long time period – for instance, one report of plague (yes, you did read that right) was from 1974. Thankfully, for most people, healthy pets pose no significant risk. This may not be the case for those who smooch their pooch or kiss their kitty, such as the Japanese woman who contracted meningitis after regularly kissing her dog and feeding it by passing food mouth to mouth. Then there was the man who believed the old wives’ tale that dog saliva is a fabulous natural antiseptic and subsequently contracted a serious infection after letting his dog lick his surgical wounds. If dog slobber were some magic elixir, there would be farms all over Asia with mutts imprisoned over buckets being tantalised with delicious aromas. I have never been an advocate of pets as bedfellows – there is enough competition for the duvet as it is. Icky bugs aside, people who curl up with their pets tend to have poorquality sleep. The reverse is not true. I have yet to treat a cat for insomnia. Nor do I let pets lick my face – I have no desire to share germs with rubbish, dead rodents or cow poo. Common sense should prevail when handling animals, and a few rules should keep the family safe. 1. Young children and immuno-compromised people, should be discouraged from sharing their bed with animals or kissing their pets. 2. Wash your hands after handling animals, no matter how clean they appear to be. Your kitty gleams because he is covered in cat spit. 3. Avoid feeding raw food to your pet as this can increase the risk of transmitting nasties such as salmonella. 4. And the best way to avoid problems is with regular veterinary checks, at least annually, to ensure your furry friend stays healthy. Dr Carmel Taylor MVB MRCVS DipAiCVD is a veterinary dermatologist with clinics at vet hospitals in HK. She makes house calls for pets with skin and ear problems in Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay. For appointments, call 9251 9588 or visit www.cutaneous.com.hk.
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down, boy
Pet Bites News from the animal world
It turns out that a lot of “faux fur” is not fake – it’s harvested from dogs and cats in China, the Philippines and Thailand. An undercover report showed two million animals a year were being slaughtered for fur products. The US now requires accurate labelling of the source of fur trim, but there is no such legislation here. Your vegetarian lifestyle might not be a good choice for pets. Dogs can go veggie (although they are usually not happy about it), but cats need essential nutrients found only in meat. Feeding your kitty a veggie diet could lead to serious heart problems. After 16 years, Ferndale Kennels and Cattery has decided it’s time for a change of image. New logo, same excellent service from Stacey and her wonderful staff with boarding and exporting pets. Check it out at www. ferndalekennels.com. Book early – it fills up fast at holiday periods.
Pet personals Susan Huskie
Rusty Cocker
Fit and fun, loves to ramble.
Good dog, wants master.
Polly
Sammi
Sweet girl on the pull.
Seeks soulmate for life bond.
Sai Kung Stray Friends Mob. 9199.2340 Email: saikungsgtrayfriendshk@gmail.com
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gardening
green fingers
The herb garden Rambling Rose gets expert advice on growing her own flavourings.
There’s a lovely 1970s English sitcom called “The Good Life” about a suburban couple who shun corporate life in favour of self-sufficiency and turn their back garden into a vegetable patch. I had visions of replicating their lifestyle when I moved to Clearwater Bay. When it came to renovating the garden, a planter for vegetables was top of the list. I managed one carrot, one crop of thyme and a wild tomato vine. So up came the veg and in went a lemon tree that, thankfully, has flourished. The herbs were moved to smaller pots with mixed success. My Thai curries have featured homegrown Thai basil and red chilies that pack a punch. But the rosemary looks twiggy and the mint that is meant to grow like mad must be on strike. There is nothing like the smell of freshly picked basil or rosemary to feel the Good Life is in reach, so I had a chat with Pedro from KK Horticulture to find out where I am going wrong. Here are his tips for growing healthy herbs. Some herbs are delicate and don’t like severe weather and changes in conditions. Basil, rosemary and lemongrass – the larger herbs – should be planted outdoors under shelter and out of direct sun and rain. Raise the pots off the ground for better airflow, and to protect the plants against worms and reflected heat. Smaller herbs such as thyme, oregano and sage can be grown indoors as long as they are near a window. Plant herbs in a mixture of ground soil with peat moss, perlite or vermicuite with top black soil. If you just use the latter, the herbs will
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suffer from bad drainage and too rich a diet. Use a slow-release organic fertilizer once a month. When it comes to repotting, only move up one size – if the pot is too big, immature roots may not be able to handle the amount of moisture in the soil and rot. When it comes to care of the plants, Pedro says it’s important to “understand their personalities”. I love this concept. I’m renaming my herbs after friends – one needs a lot of attention, another can get out of order without a firm hand, and, like the friends, some drink more than others. High water consumers include basil, thyme, coriander and parsley. You can kill your herbs with too much watery love so always check the soil moisture before watering. Pedro has plenty of problem-solving tips. Number one is to keep the herbs no more than a foot high – any taller and they are likely to flower and seed. When you prune, cut the stems as well as the leaves. To keep unwanted pests at bay, he suggests planting citronella, rosemary, rue or marigolds near the herbs. Black droppings on the leaves may have been left by caterpillars – beware. White or black mould on the leaves and stems can be a sign of poor airflow, and pale green leaves may indicate a lack of fertilizer. Which brings me neatly to reader Mr Wong and his suggestion for a fabulous natural fertilizer – seaweed. Apparently it contains a natural plant regulator that helps control growth and structural development. Thanks for the tip, I’m off to the beach. If you have any gardening tips or question please send them to ramblingrose@saikung.com
DIRECTORY of shops & services To list your business in our new directory – or to guarantee a listing every month – please email ads@saikung.com
Awnings
Best United Engineering Ltd. 2344-9028 www.bestunited.com.hk
BABY STUFF
see also Maternity, Baby Care
Bumps to Babes 2522-5000 www.bumpstobabes.com
Nuan Cashmere 9096-1645 sales@nuancashmere.com www.nuancashmere.com Small Print 9381-5481 / 6050-5940 mandy@smallp.hk / elisa@smallp.hk www.smallphk.hk Togs Unlimited 2987-0523 tchmp@biznetvigator.com www.togsunlimited.com
BABY CARE
Virgina Newhouse, RN 5185-2220 virginia@postnatalcare.com.hk www.postnatalcare.com.hk
BICYCLES
Sun Ping Bicycle 2792-3116 www.hkmba.org
BOATS
Club Marina Cove 2719-6622 cmcltd@netvigator.com www.clubmarinacove.com
BOOKS
The Reading Room (Sai Kung) 2719 5036 seasidereadingroom@gmail.com
BUILDERS
Wofu Deco 2768-8428 info@wofudeco.com www.wofudeco.com
Yuki International Contractors 9884 5824
Call 2792 2955
WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 35
BUSINESS SERVICES
Professional Wills 2561-9031 enquiry@profwills.com www.profwills.com
Zoya & Buttar 8100-0711 info@buttar.hk www.companyformation.hk
CAR RENTAL
Peugeot Open Europe 3106-0136 info@eurocardrive.com www.eurocardrive.com
CARPET CLEANING
Carpet Cleaning and Protection 6608-5720 / 3480-5072 Phoenix Carpet Care 2328-2287 / 9517-5436 phoenixcarpet@netvigator.com
CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES
ACE Kids Workshop 2194-4319 info@acekidsworkshop.com www.acekidsworkshop.com Babushka 2791-9070 Bumble Tots 2631-4001 enquiries@bumbletots.com.hk www.bumbletots.com.hk Musik’n’Motion 2559-9556 support@musiknmotion.com www.musiknmotion.com JWT Kids Gym 3968 7500 www.jwtkidsgym.com.hk
COMPUTER REPAIRS
Jan (Computer Repairs) 6403-6623 jbosvark@gmail.com
DESIGN
Sai Kung Magazine, magazines and brochures 2792-2955 tom@saikung.com
DINING
AJ’s Sri Lankan 2792-2555 info@aj.srilankan.hk www.aj.srilankan.hk Bacco / JoJo’s Indian Restaurant 2574-7477 Grande Restaurant 2792-1105 grandesaikung@netvigator.com Hebe One O One 2335-5515 info@101.com.hk www.hebe101.com
ads@saikung.com
CWTennis Want to pick up tennis? Need help with your game? Coaching available for any level from beginner to advance.
Chris Professional Tennis Coach Tel: 5326 8010 Over 14 years coaching experience in Germany, Australia, New Zealand & Singapore Coached in tennis clubs, academies and international schools 8 years professional playing experience NZ Certified Coach
36 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM
Dining cont'd
Paisano’s 2791-4445 eat@pasisanos.com.hk www.pasisanos.com.hk Roast Sai Kung ross@roast-sk.com www.roast-sk.com
Steamer’s Bar & Restaurant 2792-6991
DRY CLEANING
Mak’s Drycleaning & Laundry 2792-6100
EMERGENCY
Ambulance Centre 2735-3355 Marine Rescue 2803 6267
ESTATE AGENTS
Homelife Property (Sai Kung) 2719-0606 info@homelilfe.com.hk www.homelife.com.hk
Hong Kong Sotheby's International Realty 3108-2108 www.hksothebysrealty.com The Property Shop 2719-3977 info@thepropertyshop.com.hk www.thepropertyshop.com.hk
GARDENS
Everything Under The Sun 2554-9088 info@everythingunderthesun.com.hk www.everythingunderthesun.com.hk Jervis Bay 2656-4429 info@ltljb.com www.ltljb.com Max Concepts Ltd (trampolines) 5316-1456 info@mcl-sources.com www.mcl-sources.com Wicka Design 2422-0885 enquiry@wickadesigns.com www.wickadesigns.com
GIFT EXPERIENCES
Flight Experience 2359-0000 www.flightexperience.com.hk Live It 2522 9993 www.liveit.hk
GOLF
Island Golf Club 2513-9888 info@islandgolf.com.hk www.islandgolf.com.hk Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course 2791-3388 jckscpgc@kscgolf.org.hk www.kscgolf.org.hk
Call 2792 2955
WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 37
HANDYMAN
German Handyman 6141-1766 germanhandyman@ymail.com
Marco Electrician & Plumber 6190-8051 National Harbour Renovations & Removals 9085-1886 info@nationalharbour.com.hk Rag & Bone Man 6492 8218
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Allure 2792-2123 www.allurebeauty.com.hk
Alluring Skin 6114-5376 alluring-skin@hotmail.com www.natashalowkefford.mionegroup.com Be 9663-7719 info@imageandlifesty.com www.imageandlifestyle.com Cambridge Weight Plan Hong Kong 9618-1777 / 9045-5942 www.cambridgeweightplan.hk Herbs to Heal 9484-5257 info@herbs-to-heal.com www.herbs-to-heal.com Monika Parker Life Coach 9127-4340 coach@coachmonika.com www.coachmonika.com Personal Trainer - Nick 9446-9056 www.nicks-pt.com Sabai Day Spa 2791-2259 sabaidspa@sabaidayspa.com www.sabaidayspa.com Sai Kung Orthopaedic, Physiotherapy and Pain Centre 2792-9366 Savvy Style 2522-2592 image@savvystyle.com www.savvystyle.com www.colourmebeautiful.hk Sense of Touch enquiries@senseoftouch.com.hk www.senseoftouch.com.hk Tala’s 2335-1694 info@talashairandbeautycentre.com www.talashairandbeautycentre.com Zu San Li 2343-1866
HIKES
Walk Hong Kong 9187-8641 walks@walkhongkong.com www.walkhongkong.com
ads@saikung.com
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HOME FURNISHINGS
Amazing Inspiration Workshop Admiralty 2528-1811 Ap Lei Chau 2552-5388
Amtrac Furnishing 2508-9668 tphc01@yahoo.com.hk www.tphc.com.hk Cost Solution 2545-3800 info@cost-solution.net www.skat.com.hk Hunter Pacific Fans 2164-7228 www.elar.com.hk Pentium Lighting 6675-4515 info@pentiumlighting.hk www.pentiumlighting.hk
HOTEL
Hyatt Regency Sha Tin 3723-1234 hongkong.shatin@hyatt.com www.hongkong.shatin.hyatt.com
INTERIOR DESIGN
3 Design Interiors 6533-9433 alexchoi@3designinteriors.com www.3designinteriors.com
Outofstock Design House Limited 2369-6008 / 9586-1308 info@outofstock.com.hk www.outofstock.com.hk THE XSS 2739-7150 enquiry@thexss.com www.thexss.com Qube Architecture 2544-3638 / 9104-2304 elizabeth@qubearchitecture.com www.qubearchitecture.com
Call 2792 2955
Reliable Professional Services in Hong Kong and China
www.companyformation.hk
- COMPANY FORMATION in Hong Kong, China and Offshore - Accounting, Audit Arrangements and Tax Planning & - China Market Entry Solutions - Hong Kong Immigration Services Tel: (852) 81000 711 || Ms. Nisa || Email: info@buttar.hk
1/F, Mau Lam Commercial Building, 16-18 Mau Lam Street, Jordan, Kowloon, Hong Kong WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 39
Investment
Lifestyle Brokers 3115-7620 info@lfsbrokers.com www.lfsbrokers.com
LOCKSMITH
Tung Tai Key Cut 2792 4886
MATERNITY
Sono Vaso 2650-0262 enquiries@sonovaso.com www.sonovaso.com
MOVERS
Elite Movers & Decoration 8209-1793 elite930@hotmail.com www.emdhk.com Expert-Transport & RelocationsWarehouse 2566-4799 www.expertmover.hk Warehouse Removals 9125-2611 warehouse_removals@hotmail.com
PEST CONTROL
Biocycle (Hong Kong) Ltd. 3575-2575 info@biocycle.com www.biocycle.com.hk Christian Environmental Health 2370-9236 a-s-a-p@ceh.com.hk www.ceh.com.hk Truly Care 2458-8378 info@trulycare.com.hk www.trulycare.com.hk
PETS & VETS
Animal Behaviour Vet Practice 9618-2475 cynthia@petbehaviourhk.com www.petbehaviourhk.com Dr Carmel Taylor MVB MRCVS DipAiCVD 2549 2330 www.cutaneous.com.hk Ferndale Kennel 2792-4642 boarding@ferndalekennels.com www.ferndalekennels.com
ads@saikung.com
Homes in safe hands!
Elite Movers & Decorations
Packing & Moving • Storage services Handyman services • Single-item move Disposal services English specking staff Best price in town! Phone for free quote
8209 1793 www.emdhk.com
40 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM
Sing to the Lord a New Song for He has done marvellous things. -Psalm 98 v 1
20 years of learning together sharing God’s love.
Pets & VETS cont'd
HK Vet Services 2792-2206 hkvet@pacific.net.hk www.hongkongvet.com Kennel van Dego 2792-6889 kennelvd@biznetvigator.com www.kennelvandego.com Vet2Pet 6999-1003 vet2pet@yahoo.com Whiskers 'N Paws 2552-6200 www.wnp.com.hk
PHOTOGRAPHY
Graham Uden Photography 9195-7732 uden@netvigator.com grahamuden.com Jackie Peers 9121-1470 jackie@jackiepeers.com www.jackiepeers.com
PRE-SCHOOLS
Abacus at Clearwater Bay 2719-5712 / 2435-5291 www.esf.org.hk
Busy Bees Kindergarten 2358-2142 busybees@ust.hk ihome.ust.hk/~busybees ESF International Kindergarten Wu Kai Sha 2435-5291 kinder@wks.esf.org.hk www.esf.org.hk New Song Christian Kindergarten 2791-2472 newsong@netvigator.com www.newsonghk.com Woodland Group 2813-0290 saikung@woodlandschools.com www.woodlandschools.com
Call 2792 2955
Looking for a breakthrough in reading and writing?
Call 27194555 (Clearwater Bay)
Come join ‘Ready to Read & Write’ Courses for Kindergarten and Primary. Email: fastrack@netvigator.com WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 41
SCHOOLS
Clearwater Bay School 2358-3246 info@cwbs.edu.hk
English Schools Foundation www.esf.org.hk Hong Kong Academy 2655-1111 office@hkacademy.edu.hk Hong Lok Yuen International School 2658-6997 info@hlyis.edu.hk www.hlyis.edu.hk International College Hong Kong (ICHK) 2655-9018 info@ichk.edu.hk www.hlyis.edu.hk Japanese International School 2834-3531 esinfo@jis.edu.hk www.jis.edu.hk Kellett School 2551-8234 kellett@kellettschool.com www.kellettschool.com King George V School 2711 3029 office@kgv.edu.hk Renaissance College 3556-3550 info@renaissance.edu.hk www.renaissance.edu.hk
SNAKE CATCHER
Sai Kung Police Station 2792 8600
SPORTS
C W Tennis 5326-8010
Hong Kong International Tennis Academy 9048-2810 lea.lai@hkita.com www.hkita.com
ads@saikung.com
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SPORTS cont'd
random but interesting Local Property
Marine Divers info@marinedivers.com www.marinedivers.com
Sai Kung Stingrays paul_white@cathaypacific.com saikungstingrays.com
TRAVEL
Gakuto Villas info@createasia.net www.gakutovillas.com
TUITION
Anastassia’s Art House 2719-5533 (Sai Kung) arthouse.hk@gmail.com www.arthouse-hk.com
55’ Liveaboard for sale. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, laundry room, large living area. Reverse cycle a/c throughout. Roof deck for outdoor entertaining with 3-burner BBQ and jacuzzi. 360° sea and mountain views, on sheltered, powered mooring site in peaceful Hebe Haven. $2.48M ono For more information, photos or viewing, call or email Claire 6348 7541 cbforbes@gmail.com
Grand Chateau. For rent, 73K per month. 2700 s.f Magnificent views and semi private pool. Separate living and dining room. Family room. New kitchen with latest appliances. Three bedrooms incl 2 ensuites/ 3 bathrooms. Fabulous views from huge roof terrace. 5 minutes walk to Saikung town. Megan Inglis. Licence No. S-323179. Hong Kong Sotheby's International Realty, 9819 7870, 3108 2162 email: megan.inglis@ hksothebysrealty.com
Tan Cheung Townhouse 2100 s.f. Four bedrooms incl one ensuite/ three bathrooms. Combined living and dining. Open plan kitchen with excellent layout Large family room and study. Gorgeous views from upper level terrace. Lovely private garden. 5 minutes walk to Saikung Town. For Sale HK$13.5M. Megan Inglis (Licence No. S-323179). Hong Kong Sotheby's International Realty,tel: 9819 7870, 3108 2162, email megan.inglis@ hksothebysrealty.com
Antsmart Learning pro@playgroup.com.hk www.playgroup.com.hk Bright Sparks Language & Learning 2536-0944 enquiry@brightsparks.com.hk www.brightsparks.com.hk E.nopi Maths 2335-1261 www.enopi.com Fastrack Education 2179-4555 fastrack@netvigator.com HK Institute of Languages 2877-6160 info@hklanguages.com www.hklanguages.com La Petite France Ltd 2719-0082 www.lapetitfrance.com.hk Les Petits Lascars de Sai Kung 2526-8892 lascarssk@hklanguages.com Parkour with Yannick Ben williamsongay@hotmail.com
The Flower Box. 2100 sq ft fantastic designer house fully detached greenery surroundings asking $18M. For viewing please call May 94867450 maychan@18property.com
Country Park Home: Unique village house. 4 Bedrooms, combined living/dining plus family room. Modern fittings and large garden. Full privacy in lovely environment. For Sale HK$15M. Contact Melanie Krepp (Licence No. S-283925). Tel: 6698 7740, 3185 4385, email melanie. krepp@sothebysrealty.com
Sai Kung Mid Level Villa. 1846 sq ft lovely sea view Meticulously finished with approx. 1000 sq ft garden asking $23.8M . For viewing please call Pauline 9229 2699 paulinecho@18-property.com
Primary Matters 2526-1153 / 9465-4468 primarymattershk@gmail.com web.mac.com/primarymatters Sai Kung Tutors 6907-2514 info@saikungtutors.com www.saikungtutors.com
WINDOW CLEANERS
Sai Kung Shiny Windows 9104-2304
WINE
Sheen Classic International 2374-4030 info-hk@ sheenclassic.com www.sheenclassic.com
WORSHIP
Resurrection Church 2358-3232 www.resurrection.org.hk
YOGA
Yan Yee Road. Hidden treasure. 2100 s.f village house. Extensive high quality renovations. Four ensuite bedrooms plus study. Combined living /dining and open kitchen. Private pool and garden. Huge roof terrace. For Sale HK$25.9M. Sole Agency. Megan Inglis. (Licence No. S-323179). Hong Kong Sotheby's International Realty. 9819 7870, 3108 2162, email megan. inglis@hksothebysrealty.com
Po Toi O, Clearwater bay: 2,100' fully detached village house, with 1,000' garden. Full sea view, peaceful location, with 3 bedrooms, communal pool and tennis court and with management. $28M. For details, please contact Homelife Property on 2719-0606
Razor Park, Ref: 80899. Sale Price: HKD 11M. Brand new renovated modern designed apartment, excellent finishes. Features sauna and luxurious shower facilities. Split level private terrace. Separate air-conditioned maid’s room in garage. 2 car parks Contact Teresa Chu (Licence No. S-293988) Hong Kong Sotheby's International Realty. Tel: 9029 6819, 3108 2118, email Teresa. chu@hksothebysrealty.com
Utpala Takhel 9740-4516 utahhel@gmail.com
Yoga for friends 9255-0567 (Stefanie) 6743-4059 (Esra) smahn500@yahoo.de Yoyo Yu 9302-3931 www.yoyoyoga.net
Call 2792 2955 or email ads@saikung.com
WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 43
cover classified feature Overseas Property
Charities/Community FINANICAL HELP needed to purchase kennel facility for Sai Kung Stray Friends. Please Call Narelle, 9199 2340
Property in the Philippines. 80,000 square foot property consisting of main house, business, Thai style guest houses and farm, furnished and ready to move in. Please see http:// www.kotong.net/Alcala/Welcome. html for details or email williamsjim@ mac.com
NEED A HOLIDAY? PHUKET VILLA FOR RENT! Luxury 5 beds villa located in Surin area. Walking distance to beaches. Reasonable rates! Website:www.phuketvilla4rent. com Email the owner: info@ phuketvilla4rent.com
PHUKET LUXURY FLAT: Surin Beach - available for rental at The Chava (www.thechava.com). Short or long term. Fully equipped, two extra large en-suite bedrooms, three minute walk to the island's best beach. Balconies, pool and relaxing green views from every room. Email surinbeachrental@ gmail.com for photos and inquiries.
Call 2792 2955 for classifieds booking or email classifieds@saikung.com Sudoku
Koh Samui: Spacious four en-suite bedroom villa in Koh Samui with glorious views, infinity pool, maid service and tropical gardens. 10 mins from golf course & white beach, and 20 mins from airport. Daily flights from HK. Special rates negotiable. www. baan-ling-noi.com Enquiries: Susan Field (Owner) Tel: +852 2521 1498 Email: susan@impactasia.com
SAI KUNG WATERCOLOR SOCIETY: All levels welcome. Free, just bring your own equipment. Meetings mostly take place on Sat mornings once or twice a month. www.hkcolours. typepad.com or contact Laetitia at saikungcolours@gmail.com New Song Christian Kindergarten Floral Villas, Commercial Area, 18 Tso Wo Road, Tso Wo Hang, Sai Kung. T : 2791 2472 F : 2791 2477 Email : newsong@netvigator.com Web : www.newsonghk.com DONATE clothes, shoes, books, toys and electrical appliances in good condition. Collection: 2716 8778. Donation: 2716 8862. Website: www. christian-action.org.hk Blog: siewmei. cahk.org Email: ca@christian-action. org.hk DONATE old baby clothes, toys and equipment to mothers in need. Small toys, wraps, bottles and teething toys are desperately needed, a charity for that helps migrant mothers find a safe and legal home. Call Kylie: 9460 1450 or Luna: 5135 3015. (Chi) Resurrection Church Community Choir. Enjoy singing? This is the community choir for you! Every Wednesday in Resurrection Church. Pak Sha Wan 7.30 pm – 9pm. RXchoir@gmail.com GUIDE LEADERS WANTED: Calling all former Brownies! The Sai Kung Guide Unit in Pak Sha Wan is looking for guides (girls aged 10 and above) and new voluntary leaders for this enthusiastic group that encourages girls to be responsible and reliable through skills such as camping, first aid, crafts and more. Sign up and save the unit from closure! For details, please contact Anna at guidesinsaikung@gmail.com.
PHUKET LUXURY FAMILY APARTMENT. Club Lersuang apartment. Sleeps 5. Great value. Master bedroom, 2nd bedroom (3 single beds), self-contained, fully fitted kitchen, pool, gym, restaurant. Visit www.tripadvisor.com and search “Club Lersuang” to see amazing reviews. E-mail: paul_stocker88@hotmail.com
Employment STEAMERS BAR CAFE is now hiring! Full time waiter / waitress position available. Must be experienced and energetic! Please apply with CV and expected salary tosteamers.08@hotmail.com
Call 2792 2955 for classifieds booking 44 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM
cover classified feature BUMBLE TOTS is looking for a baby/toddler gym instructor to hold weekday classes. Must have experience training kids and babies. Please send CV to enquiries@ bumbletots.com.hk or call Dorothy on 2631 4001. SENSE OF TOUCH, Hong Kong’s award-winning spa chain … is recruiting! Positions available: therapists/spa manager. Location: Sai Kung. Requirements: Good spoken English. Cantonese is an advantage but not essential. Previous experience in a spa is preferred. Minimum 5 years for the Spa Manager position with management experience strongly preferred. Recognized esthetics certificate is preferred. Ability to listen to client needs, explain procedures and their benefits clearly to clients. High standard of personal hygiene and grooming. Friendly, welcoming manner, selfmotivated, team player, honest. If you are interested, please email your CV, with expected salary and availability to: amanda@senseoftouch. com.hk Writer Wanted. Sai Kung & Clearwater Bay Magazine seeks a writer. Perfect for local resident who enjoys interviewing people, is organized and able to work to deadline. This is a part-time, paid position. Email: publisher@saikung. com
Domestic Help PART TIME HELPER: Many years experience with local family. Happy and easy to get along with. Good with children, pets, cooking, cleaning, organizing. Looking for morning work for a couple of hours each day. Good references. Excellent English. Call 9843 4724 Part Time Helper available. I am a happy and helpful domestic helper with 8 years broad experience. I have a pleasant demeanor and get along well with babies, children and parents alike. I am available for several times a week or every day part time. Sarah 6715 3093, lady_g2010@ yahoo.com
FILIPINA HELPER SEEKING EMPLOYER. My present employer is relocating and my contract ends 30th April. I have worked for Western families for 22 years doing all household duties, cooking, taking care of family pets and looking after the home whilst my employer is away. Hardworking, trustworthy and caring. Excellent references. Please call Diana on 9452 6261 for an interview.
Tuition & Courses ACE KIDS Workshop Sai Kung: unleash creativity, develop artistic skills, produce original artwork! Ages 4 up, small classes in English. Find out more: www. acekidsworkshop.com or info@ acekidsworkshop.com or 21944319. Primary Matters: Hong Kong's premier provider of quality literacy tuition for young people, offers reading and writing workshops on a termly basis at Renaissance College and E.S.F. schools on the island. Easter courses taking place at Renaissance College and Island School: see web site http://web. mac.com/primarymatters for details. Enquiries: primarymattershk@gmail. com or call Marion 2526 1153 / 9465 4468
Furniture DESIGNED FOR GENERATIONS: Skagerak Denmark High Quality Contemporary Scandinavian Furniture & Accessories for your home and garden. Visit SKAT’S showroom, in Central or browse our online shop for your home decoration. Unit A, 5/F, 8 Gilman’s Bazaar, Central, Hong Kong, Tel.: 2545 3800, www.skat.com.hk
Services FOR FULL HOME RENOVATIONS Painting, Plumbing, Carpentry, Floor tiling, Electrical work, Ceiling repair; call Yuki International Contractors & Engineers for free quotation. Our staff are fluent English, Cantonese & Japanese. Tel: 9884 5824
GERMAN HANDY MAN. If you are looking for: curtain, picture, mirror and shelf hanging, assembling and disassembling of furniture, wall painting, wall repair and patch, floor covering (laminate, carpet, linoleum), tiling (floor&wall), bathroom & kitchen repair, and much more... just give me a call! Mobile: 61411766 germanhandyman@ymail.com
Cambridge Weight Plan: No need to go to Central...Cambridge Weight Plan is in Sai Kung and CWB. We help you create an easy-tomanage daily diet plan and provide motivation and support every step of the way. Call our friendly local consultants today! Alison Barnes 9618 1777 Jean Hudson 9045 5942 www. cambridgeweightplan.hk
Carpet cleaning and protection. Sanitizing deodorization. Oriental rug and protection. Upholstery and fabric cleaning protection. Vehicle and yacht interior cleaning/detailing. Specialized spot, stain and odor removal. Dust mite anti-allergen treatment. All U.S. product by bissell. Call us 66085720/34805072 call us for free quotation (Bryan)
Personal Trainer - Established HK trainer opening for business in the area. Aussie/US Educated. From fat loss to Athletic performance I have the experience to help you reach your goals. Private studio, visit www.nickspt.com or call Nick on 9446 9056.
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. NEED TO MOVE? Call Warehouse Removals for a free quotation. We have over 15 years of moving experience with English-speaking staff. No job too small. Local / International / Office / Disposal. Call 2789 2205 / 91252611 or email warehouse_removals@hotmail.com Expert-Transport & Relocations: MOVER* ANDYMAN*STORAGE. Local & International Relocation, Packing Materials Supply Cargo Collection/ Clearance/Deliveries,Transportation Service Storage & Disposal, Professional House Painting. All sort of Handyman Works. All-in one Professional Service at attractive rates Call 25664799 www. expertmover.hk NATIONAL HARBOUR RENOVATIONS & REMOVALS: Contracting, decoration and whole house removals. Painting, plumbing, electrical, flooring, masonry, doors, windows, airconditioning, waterproofing, bathroom fixtures, kitchen cabinets. Call Charles 90851886. info@ nationalharbour.com.hk
Health & Wellbeing COMPUTER REPAIR: Professional, friendly computer specialist available to help with any computer related problems at home or in your office. Call Jan Boshoff 6403 6623, jan@ edge-technology.net.
Yoga with yoyo: email: yingying_yu@hotmail.com tel: 9302 3931 website: www.yoyoyoga.net location: Sai Kung Man Nin Street
Experienced Hatha/Vinyasa Yoga teacher offering classes at Tina’s Dance Studio, Sai Kung, Timings: Wednesday 7-8pm, Thursday 8-9pm and Friday 12:30-1:30 pm Private and Prenatal Yoga classes possible at a venue of your choice. Contact Utpala at utakhel@gmail.com or 97404516 I HAVE OVER 20 YEARS of experience as a Registered Nurse. I will guide you through the maternity and midwife services in Hong Kong, then visit you at home after your baby is born. First Aid courses available. Call 5185 2220, www.postnatalcare.com.hk Stressed? Need to talk? Monika Parker is an experienced life coach and stress management counselor. Call 9127 4340 or email coach@coachMonika.com. See www. CoachMonika.com for more info. Relaxing Massage –Professional Massage Therapist offering Unique style treatment including aromatherapy and lymphatic massage. English speaking and convenient central Sai Kung location. Call Renee on 51909698 for appointment.
Yoga for Friends: Welcome to join our open Yoga classes Clear Water Bay. Teachers are certified by Yoga Alliance Please send an email to following address for time schedule. smahn500@yahoo.de; Stefanie 92550567, esra.boehm@hotmail.de; Esra 67434059 Classes in German and English language
or email classifieds@saikung.com WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 45
The revolution will not be televised
As the creeping influence of the Internet extends ever further into the living room, via the iPlayer and HDMI cable, the way we access and pay for television is destined to change. PCCW is meeting this new challenge not by reconfiguring its entertainment platform to satisfy shifting demand, but by making it increasingly difficult to cancel its services. My basic Now TV package is on an 18-month contract while the rental of the telephone lines on which it travels is renewable every year. The agreement for my phone expires between both of these and the sports channel I ordered last summer to watch a single game of football, came with the first two months free but cannot be cancelled for another 17. In addition my contract for Broadband is heavier than a 19th-century Russian novel and is more complex and costly than the Treaty of Versailles. Figuring out when all these contracts align is, in mathematical terms, a problem of finding the lowest common multiple. Normally a relatively easy procedure, this complex example took almost a bottle of Cabernet Merlot and gave the innocuous answer of 210. That is in 210 months’ time or late summer 2028. Unless, of course, I accidentally re-
subscribe to the History channel while trying to order a pizza using the remote control. Unlike the rapid developments in computer hardware, the content of television has been slowly degenerating since the introduction of the DVD in the mid-90s. The quantum unit of broadcasting is no longer the individual programme but the season box set. Early pioneers of the format, such as “ER”, quickly realised it was unnecessary to have anything important to say as long as they had plenty of melodrama, a contemporary soundtrack and beautifully groomed actors. Even as a reluctant passive viewer of this relentless soap, the characters managed to worm into my peripheral consciousness and take up residence like a bunch of unwanted flatmates. Of far greater concern was the repetitive, bomb-ticking narrative of “24” and its enthusiastic promotion of torture. Through two wars, the Bush administration seemed to be mirroring the antics of Jack Bauer, whose eight-season tenure as chief electrocutioner coincided almost exactly with Dubya’s two
terms in office. It may be stretching the evidence a little to blame the show for the abuses at Abu Ghraib prison. However, when viewing figures were around 12 million an episode, an independent survey revealed 35 per cent of all Americans believed the use of torture to be justified. With a budget greater than the gross domestic product of Honduras, current favourite “Mad Men” has film-quality cinematography and a rich mise-en-scene. But with little plot and no interesting characters, how many series can realistically be sustained on the single joke of “Weren’t the 1950s funny, when everyone smoked 40 Marlboros a day?” Unable to extract myself from my contractual obligations and unwilling to watch the dross pumped into my home, I’ve decided to turn the flat-screen television into a coffee table. As the new focus of the room it looks like a trendy piece of retro furniture, resembling a vintage table-top space invaders game. Stepping into my living room now is like being transported back to 1981. Now there’s an idea for a TV show... Iain Lafferty
for you
Win a family ticket to Barney’s Space Adventure
Where’s Bunny?
Barney’s Space Adventure, the much-loved children’s show, runs April 2-5 at Star Hall, KITEC. For more information visit www. hkticketing.com. To win a family ticket for three, tell us the colour of the planet in Barney’s Space Adventure?
Email your answer to free@saikung.com.
Roast Sai Kung Discount
10% off
10% off any item at the new Roast Sai Kung takeaway in Kin Man Street. Just say the magic words “Sai Kung Magazine”. Offer valid until March 31.
Grand opening: Physiotherapy offer Enjoy a 25% discount on your first physiotherapy session at SKOPPC throughout March and April. Offer open to all new customers who mention "Sai Kung Magazine" when making an appointment.
46 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM
25% off
To win a free one-year membership to Island Golf Driving Range, tell us which page a rabbit appears on in this month’s issue. Email your answers to free@ saikung.com.
Last month's winners Congratulations to Shirley Lung who scooped two free tickets for ArtWalk by correctly identifying Leoardo da Vinci as the creator of the Mona Lisa. ArtWalk, the year’s biggest, most fun art event, is on March 16. For details, visit HongKongArtWalk.com
NEW “BRIGHT SPARKS” CLASS (For children aged from 5 years plus) 9.15 am – 4.00 pm, Monday to Friday • Conducted by a qualified Primary school teacher • The class will closely follow Key Stage One of the British National Curriculum • Specifically designed to prepare children for the ESF and International School systems For further information please contact Mrs Deirdre Hamilton:
Sai Kung
Shop D, G/F Marina Cove Shopping Centre, Sai Kung. Tel: 2813 0290 Email: saikung@woodlandschools.com
www.woodlandschools.com Enrol Now for
SUMMER FUN PROGRAMME 2011 (4th July to 12th August) Woodland Pre-Schools’ Summer Fun Programmes offer a whole calendar of fun activities to entertain and educate children aged 12 months to 7 years: painting, clay modelling, cooking, dancing, science experiments, story telling and much, much more. Programmes throughout July and August are organised into 2-week blocks of theme-based activities. Enrol for any of the 2-week sessions or the whole 6-week course. Give your child the advantage of a brighter summer by enrolling today. For more information and registration forms, please visit our website or contact the schools below. Sai Kung
Tai Tam Montessori Repulse Bay Montessori
Tel: 2525 1655 Tel: 2803 1885
Mid Levels Montessori The Peak Repulse Bay Beachside Happy Valley
Tel: 2549 1211 Tel: 2849 6192 Tel: 2812 0274 Tel: 2575 0042
Pokfulam Harbourside (Aberdeen) Sai Kung Woodland Tree House (Pokfulam)
www.woodlandschools.com
Tel: 2551 7177 Tel: 2559 1377 Tel: 2813 0290 Tel: 2872 6138