FAMILY | EASTER | PICNICS | HOROSCOPE
April 2021
Perfect picnics The best luxury picnic baskets
Easter fun Join our Easter fair
Hello beautiful
Meet the faces behind Hong Kong’s top beauty centres
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CONTENTS — 04/21
16 COVER STORY
Meet the faces of Hong Kong’s top beauty centres.
4 CONTRIBUTORS
15 LOCAL
6 PEOPLE
21 DINING
Meet the team
A guide to our Easter Fair at The Pulse
Southsiders out and about
Easter baskets to picnic the long weekend away
8 THE PLANNER
32 PETS
Dr Pauline Taylor on a sad reality of rabbits and chicks
35 HOROSCOPES
Here’s what’s written in the stars for you this month
29 MUST HAVES
What’s on in April
Easter goodies for your basket
10 NEWS
31 SECRETS
What’s happening in our backyard
36 ZIM CITY
Paul Zimmerman on how the government can invest in Hong Kong’s country parks
Pok Fu Lam Village
13 FIVE MINUTES WITH
Butler Asia, a unique home concierge service
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6
21
29
10 “If the path is beautiful, let us not ask where it leads” – Anatole France
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editor’s letter They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder and we at Southside Magazine think you are all beautiful. Shot in the serene Sense of Touch spa in Repulse Bay, this month’s cover is dedicated to Hong Kong’s beauty entrepreneurs. From waxing to hydro facials, these spas and salons keep Hong Kong looking its finest. After having to close for six months in 2020 due to government restrictions, these beauticians are back and better than ever. They share their beauty tips and secrets to success in our cover story (page 16). With Easter just around the corner, there is no better time to pack up a picnic and enjoy the city’s great outdoors...before the humidity sets in. We’ve rounded up the best pre-prepared picnic sets and where to enjoy them in our dining section (page 22). While you’re out and about, why not hop along to the Hong Kong Living Easter Fair on April 5-6. With a variety of pop-up booths, children’s activities and an Easter egg hunt, there will be plenty of fun for the whole family. Come and say hi at The Pulse from 11-6pm. Wishing you an egg-cellent Easter with plenty of chocolate.
Editorial Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Contributing Editor Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Editorial Assistant Cheyelene Fontanilla, cheyelene@hongkongliving.com Senior Writer Charmaine Ng, charmaineng@hongkongliving.com Dining Editor Amber Lai, amber@hongkongliving.com
Design Graphic Designer Vicky Lam, vicky@hongkongliving.com Yankee Tsang, yankee@hongkongliving.com
Sales & Marketing
Director of Content Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Sales and Partnership Manager Debbie Ky, debbie@hongkongliving.com Elaine Li, elaine@hongkongliving.com Events Manager Pranali Gupta, pranali@hongkongliving.com
Publisher
Matt Eaton, matt@hongkongliving.com
Things we love
Founding Director
Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com
Contact us Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong
Food from afar
Headache-free weekdays
Just because we can’t travel freely at the moment doesn’t mean our taste buds can’t either. Dominique Ansel has just released an adorable new pastry collection, Around The World, featuring five of the team's favorite destinations including a mango sticky rice cake in the shape of a mango and a cheesecake in the shape of a French Brie wheel. dangwenli.com
A change in the weather and season can trigger migraines. Nerivio is a non-drug treatment designed to relieve migraines using electrical pulses. The machine works via an app and can even track your migraines to help detect any possible triggers. ekpachealthcare.com
Covid-19 update
As Southside Magazine goes to print we have done our best to keep our content as accurate and up-to-date as possible, but life under Covid-19 regulations means things tend to change, often from day-to-day. Please check with local businesses for operation hours and services available and remember, stay safe.
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HONG KONG hongkongliving.com
Credit: Karin Bremer Location: Sense of Touch
Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong
Southside Magazine is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Southside Magazine 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 without written permission from the publisher.
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contributors
Thank you to our contributors
Dr Pauline Taylor Dr Pauline Taylor is a senior vet at Pets Central and advises in small animal medicine. She graduated in Scotland and spent the past 10 years practicing in New Zealand before moving to Hong Kong with her fourlegged family members. She shares some information on the sad reality of rabbits and chickens this Easter.
Paul Zimmerman Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, the co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks and Southern District Councillor of Pok Fu Lam. In his column this month, Zimmerman shares his thoughts on how the government can spend its $500 million.
Bella Huang Our newest intern Bella Huang is a journalism student currently taking a gap year to explore herself and the city. She believes that travelling, reading and talking to people are the best ways for personal growth. This month Huang explores Southside’s most notorious beach in our secrets section.
Solène Verrot As managing director of EstheClinic Hong Kong, Solène Verrot knows a thing or two about keeping a fresh face. Verrot shares her beauty tips and advice on mixing business with family life in this month’s cover story.
Karin Bremer Dutch-Australian photographer Karin runs photography company Karin Bremer Photography offering a range of photography services including family portraits, events and commercial product services. This month she photographed our wonderful cover at Sense of Touch in Repulse Bay. karinbremer.com
Butler The co-founder of home concierge service Butler, are on a mission to redefine living and build the future of home management. Learn more about the new app and how it can improve your life in our five minutes with section.
Want to write for Southside Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 4 | SOUTHSIDE
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people
Snaps from Southside
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say cheese
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planner
Mark your calendars for these April events APR 5
HK50 WEST Run across the west of Hong Kong from Shing Mun Reservoir Catchwater across the Maclehose Trail to the Lung Mun Country Trail in a 6km, 10km, 25km or 54km race. 6:30am. From $180. Shing Mun Reservoir Catchwater, Tsuen Wan. actionasiaevents.com
APR 5-6
Hong Kong Living Easter Fair
APR 10
Join us at The Pulse for two days of pop-ups, yoga and Easter fun. Children will love the rooftop activities and a fun-filled Easter egg hunt. 11-6pm. Free. the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay. hongkongliving.com
For those looking for the perfect wedding venue, The Vow’s open day will let you experience the breathtaking 180º Seaview of Repulse Bay where you can say I do. the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay. thevow.com.hk
APR 1-12
Hong Kong International Film Festival Celebrate the 45th anniversary of the festival through virtual and theatre screenings of films celebrating Chinese cinema and local talent. From $55. hkiff.org.hk
APR 2
The Vow Open Day
APR 17
Forest Bathing and DIY Coffee A guided forest bathing tour to appreciate Japanese tradition of relaxing by connecting with nature. Enjoy a cup of hand-brewed coffee in the wild. $680. Shek Kip Mei. k11.com
Good Friday Enjoy the long weekend and keep an eye out for the Easter bunny.
UNTIL APR 4
Hong Kong Arts Festival A five-week live theatre festival with classical piano, Western opera and ballet performances. Online and in various locations including Hong Kong City Hall Theatre. From $170. hk.artsfestival.org
APR 2-3
Peppa Pig Live Follow along with Peppa and friends at her live show, featuring new music and adventures. From $280. Star Hall, Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre. hkticketing.com
UNTIL MAY 3
Le French May Exhibition From April 29 to May 3, enjoy a showcase of over 20 foreign photographers and sculptors with the theme of rebirth to celebrate the energy of life. All profits will be donated to Children of Mekong, to educate children and access a better life. the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay. thepulse.com.hk
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APR 24-25
Life Mart – Scream It Out! Pet Carnival Support over 100 local businesses at this handicraft market. Featuring hilarious screaming chickens and fascinating workshop experiences. the pulse, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay. thepulse.com.hk
what’s on
BOOK NOW MAY 2
MAY 21-30
Run like a hero in Hong Kong’s first Wonder Woman Run. Individual participants can choose between a 3km, 5km or 10km course, while families can run together on a 3km course. A portion of proceeds go to Make-A-Wish Hong Kong. 7am-3pm. From $398. Hong Kong Science Park. wonderwomanrunhk. championchiphkc.com
Hebe Haven Yacht Club and Sailability HK will be hosting a global women’s sailing festival featuring on-and-off-water activities and events to encourage participation by women and girls in sailing. The festival will bring together sailing communities from all backgrounds and events will take place in multiple countries at the same time. Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung. hhyc.org.hk
Steering the Course
MAY 9
Mother’s Day Celebrate mum this Sunday. Flowers and breakfast in bed would be much appreciated.
Photo: Kitmin_lee
Wonder Woman Run
NOV 26-28 Clockenflap
The harbourfront music festival return after a two-year hiatus. Artists and performers yet to be announced. clockenflap.com
NOV 5-7
Hong Kong Rugby Sevens Hong Kong’s biggest three-day party is back (hopefully) with a three day rugby fest. Don your best costume and head to the South Stand early. hksevens.com
Got an event? We can publish the details. Email editorial@hongkongliving.com
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news
Hotel quarantine walk-a-thon raises $150k Facing his fourth quarantine in a year, Hong Kong-based journalist Frederik Balfour set a goal to walk 10,000 steps a day while cooped up at the Best Western Plus in Sheung Wan. Throughout his quarantine, Balfour walked a total of 200km and is on a mission to raise $200,000 for the Splash Foundation, a charity that gives foreign domestic workers and underprivileged kids the chance to learn how to swim.“It wasn’t until I was two weeks in that I realised all my pacing was a great way to raise money for charity. I started walking 10,000 steps a day in a room nine paces long and gradually got more and more ambitious.” The $200,000 goal will make it possible for 100 students to take part in Splash Foundation’s free classes. splashfoundation.org
Hong Kong sets record for highest rent The city’s property market has done it again. A house on 11 Plantation Road, located on the Peak has been rented out for $1.35 million a month, setting the record for highest rent in Hong Kong. At a whopping 10,804 square feet, the luxury home is one of seven stunning houses and has its own
elevator, a private garden, roof and garage and spectacular views of the Hong Kong skyline. The property project is owned by Wharf Holdings, who reportedly have plans to sell four of the seven properties overlooking Victoria Harbour and will attempt to rent the other three houses.
Students bring solar energy to ESF Leading the charge in making Hong Kong schools more sustainable, three Renaissance College students set out to bring solar energy to their campus in 2019. Now the English Schools Foundation (ESF) and CLPe Solutions announced that a total of 1,400 solar panels have been installed across eight ESF schools. The three students, Jane Chan, Taylor Chung and Ankita Joshi began the project in 2019 under the Student Sustainability team. They came up with the idea to put their school’s large rooftop area to good use, commissioning designs, negotiating with suppliers and applying for funding. They took it upon themselves to see the project through. As a result,
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the clean energy created by these newly installed solar panels will reportedly reduce carbon emissions by nearly 280 tonnes within a year. The eight schools include
Bradbury, Clearwater Bay, King George V, Kowloon Junior, Renaissance College, Sha Tin College, South Island School and West Island School.
in your backyard
Ben Brown Fine Arts goes large in Southside The popular art gallery on Pedder Street has recently moved to a larger location in up and coming Wong Chuk Hang. The Gallery was the first Western gallery to take up permanent residence in Pedder Building back in 2009 and was well known for its expertise in 20th century European and American art. Its new location will be featuring an exhibition of Britain’s leading figurative painters, Frank Auerbach and Tony Bevan until April 30.
Cathay Pacific suspends pet transportation until May Cathay Pacific recently announced that pets travelling as check-in baggage or cargo on flights out of Hong Kong will be unavailable until April 30. Pet owners planning to relocate in the coming months have already found it difficult to book pets on a flight. With even less
options, there is a worry many will be left abandoned. “We have temporarily stopped pet shipments. The service may resume again in May, but there will be an update in mid-April,” a spokesperson from Cathay Pacific said.
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five minutes with
Five minutes with Butler
Cheyelene Fontanilla meets the founders of the unique home concierge service
Jonathan Lam, Angues Chan and Jeffrey Ma are the founders of Butler, a personal home concierge service that boldly strives to simplify life for urbanites. How have they set out to do that? With personalised services brought to your door as part of a monthly subscription. Delivering on their promise to provide an elevated home experience, Butler is looking to be the blueprint of 21st Century home management and it appears they’re well on their way. Before they became founders, Lam, Chan and Ma worked for as investment bankers. But this trio’s origin story goes back much further. “The three of us met at an early age, while we were in primary school. In fact, we went to the same primary and middle school in Hong Kong and eventually did our graduate degrees in London, coincidentally landing in the same industry, investment banking,” says Chan. Just as luck would have it, there was something else they had in common: an
unquestionable desire to be entrepreneurs. “We wanted to take a leap of faith and challenge ourselves. There is just so much to look forward to as an entrepreneur, something we knew we’ve always wanted to do; it was just a matter of when,” says Chan. So, why personalised home services? Recognising a recurring problem in their own lives, they realised they needed a quick, easy solution that didn’t take hours of research, correspondence and scheduling. Much like the majority of successful business owners, what began as a problem quickly became an opportunity, and when Covid struck, they knew the time to fully commit to their idea had come. Enter Butler. “Aside from seeing an opportunity in the market and personally having a need for a service like ours, Covid-19 definitely acted as a catalyst,” says Lam. The pandemic has caused an immediate shift in our relationship with our homes. What was once a place for occasional nights in, showers and sleep quickly became a space to
entertain, that also had to double as an office. Suddenly, there was a heightened demand for a one-stop shop that caters to a city dweller’s needs on multiple levels. From housekeeping, laundry organisation and restocking groceries to repairmen services, decoration, home event planning and more, Butler has it all. The company even offers a course to train employed domestic helpers in order to upskill the workforce. “The purpose of this course is to assist your domestic helper in realising their potential in relation to their work skills and job knowledge, so they can complete home chores even more effectively and efficiently,”says Chan. Like any uphill battle, their entrepreneurial journey came with a bounty of tough decisions, balanced out by numerous rewarding moments. “The entrepreneur experience, although it’s just started for us, has already been phenomenal. The roller coaster rides of preparing, pitching, designing, trial and errors, rejections, to closing deals; the long weekends and late nights; the arguments and epiphanies – were all very wonderful learning experiences,” Lam confesses. Through tougher times, these founders have leaned on each other. “Taking that leap of faith to run our company full time as opposed to a stable and relatively highpaying corporate job was one of the tougher decisions we personally had to make during this journey. We have always been very supportive of each other and transparent with our thoughts, so it feels more like three people dealing with any challenges that arise as opposed to one – which makes things less overwhelming,” says Lam. One can only assume that achieving big-picture goals tastes a little sweeter with lifelong friends by your side, and with a dream like theirs, it certainly doesn’t hurt to have people you trust on your team. “Our vision is to redefine living, elevate lifestyle and build the future of home management experiences.” With all that they’ve accomplished during a year of global instability, it seems they’re ontrack to doing just that. butlerasia.com
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local
AMG Ltd Helping children reach their academic goals, AMG has over 25 years of experience and in-depth knowledge of UK School requirements. Learn about their services at our Easter Fair.
Sutton Kids Nab some fashionable, upcycled pieces for your children. From bow ties and shirts to trousers, Sutton Kids is a great place to shop sustainably for boys aged 2-10.
ADKIDZ This girl’s boutique specialises in apparel and accessories for tweens and teens. Find some high quality clothes and bags with some fantastically unique designs at ADKIDZ.
Rosarini Helping children reach their academic goals, AMG has over 25 years of experience and in-depth knowledge of UK School requirements. Learn about their services at our Easter Fair.
The Cheese House Founded by a cheese master, The Cheese House has the finest selection of European cheeses in Hong Kong.
Handmade by B Handmade soap and skincare products, created with the finest natural ingredients like essential oils and floral water, will be onsite at our Easter Fair! Grab some beautifully crafted soaps here.
Needs Concepts Ltd A one-stop shop for all your daily essentials, Needs HK has health, beauty, hygiene and self care products and much more.
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Reception
Aqua Source is the perfect complement to baby formula. Rich in oxygen, low in sodium, Aqua Source is Austrian natural Alpine spring water for babies.
Hong Kong Living
Wild Alp's Aqua Source
Design your own Easter Egg
easter fair
Sai Kung Stray Friends Home to about 130 dogs, Sai Kung Stray Friends is a fantastic foundation that specialises in making life better for our canine counterparts. Pick up some dog toys and accessories here.
Dance Workshop
BallroomBees
BallroomBees
BallroomBees is a company that specialises in dance, music and play for children. They will be holding free dance classes at our Easter Fair.
BONNE MERE Selling beautiful quilts, beddings, baby essentials, sleepwear and more, this boutique designer brand has classic, timeless homeware and clothes for babies and children aged up to 10 years.
Wicks & Co
Photo Corner Colouring Area Entertainment Section
Shop locally. Shop sustainably. Completely non-toxic and hand-poured, you’ll love these raw wax and essential oil candles.
UAU Group Ltd UAU Group Limited is an international real estate developer that is also involved in Innovation and Technology Investment, film and entertainment, car trading and leasing and more.
White Stone White Stone is an online shop that sells everything from vitamins and organic snacks to beauty products.
Blue Brew Tea Blending an exotic ingredient, butterfly pea flower with other herbs and plants, each tea blend is handcrafted in small batches, using as many organic ingredients as possible.
Fok Hing Gin A gin so good, they fok-hing swear by it. Swing by and grab a gin and tonic that embodies East meets West, with their Hong Kong-made gin and London Essence Tonic.
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cover story
HELLO BEAUTIFUL
Nicole Slater meets five beauty entrepreneurs making sure Hong Kong looks its best. Photography by Karin Bremer
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beauty
SOLÈNE VERROT MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ESTHECLINIC HONG KONG Originally from the South of France, Solène Verrot decided to move to Hong Kong in 2019 with her partner Leo, bringing his family run business, EstheClinic with them. While opening in August of 2019 was the start of what would be a difficult two years for the city, Verrot is happy with their decision and even plans to open a new branch later this year. Combining medical expertise and groundbreaking technology EstheClinic is a new generation of beauty clinics that offer pain free, noninvasive and aesthetic treatments. “I am very meticulous about beauty treatments, always looking for the most natural option,” she says. All of EstheClinic’s treatments use cutting-edge technology to stimulate cells or collagen, leaving your body and skin to do the rest. “Sometimes our bodies just need a little nudge and this is where we come in.” While permanent hair removal is the clinic’s most popular treatment in France, Hongkongers are more interested in facial treatments, “everyone here does a facial at least once a month, as part of a beauty routine, I think this could be due to humid weather.”
DION LEUNG MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SENSE OF TOUCH Having worked for the award winning day spa, Sense of Touch for over a decade, Dion Leung knows the health and beauty industry by heart. “It’s been an honour to have been part of the Sense of Touch team growing from a boutique spa in Central.” Originally known for its painless waxing treatments in 2002, the brand has grown into a Hong Kong wide spa with three locations across the city, including a five-star hotel spa in partnership with Crowne Plaza in Kowloon East. While the business has grown, the warm and friendly service has remained the same, “many of our highly qualified therapists have been with us since almost the beginning and know many of our loyal clients,” says Leung. Along with award-winning treatments including facials, massages and mani-pedis, Sense of Touch has also branched out into high tech beauty treatments, the latest being Emsculpt and Ultra 360,which offer noninvasive skin tightening, muscle building and fat burning. “I started my beauty journey as a teenager and progressively did more in-depth research into beauty treatments. An industry slogan I like to quote is ‘invest in your skin as it
Verrot has always been a fan of the beauty industry, spending hours browsing through products and treatments, so EstheClinic Hong Kong is a true passion of hers. What makes the clinic so unique is its family run element, which is lacking in many international businesses. Verrot loves the close knit business environment but recommends “it is crucial to find a balance in any relationship, at first it was difficult to not talk about work at home, even more so being
in a city like Hong Kong where everything goes so fast and requires fast decision making, but at some point you find a natural rhythm.” estheclinic.com.hk
is going to represent you for a long time’.” While the spa had to close for six months last year, the pandemic hasn’t stopped Leung and the Sense of Touch team, who are gearing to become more environmentally sustainable in the upcoming years. “We are planning to exclusively use beauty brands that are committed to reducing their environmental impact,” she says. “While it pays off to think big in terms of your growth
and marketing strategies, you must not lose sight of the small details.” senseoftouch.com.hk
What is your top beauty tip? Never wash your face in the morning (your skin works hard all night building its own natural barrier against the world) but always hydrate. Hydration is key.
What is your everyday beauty routine? Skincare is obviously more important to me than makeup. I have a baseline six-step regimen consisting of cleanser, toner, serum, eye cream, moisturise and then SPF sunscreen during the day.
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cover story
JANSEN ON FOUNDER OF THE PLACE Starting his career as a trading operator at Morgan Stanley in Singapore, Jansen On was inspired by many of his coworkers’ side businesses and decided to have a go himself. After meeting his wife Haruka Ishii, the couple moved to Hong Kong to start up a beauty business together. The PLACE went on to open in Tai Kok Tsui in May 2019, “It was all very fast, we moved back to Hong Kong and settled into our new home, within a week I’d signed the lease and kick-started the renovations,” says On. The salon will be opening its second location in the heart of Central this year. The PLACE specialises in eyelash extensions and treatments, with On’s wife taking on the role of stylist director. After attending the Japan National Cosmetic School in 2014, Ishii wanted to bring the unique Japanese extension techniques to Hong Kong. “Our extension service is delivered in a real Japanese way with an international operation model,” says On. All the materials and staff are subjected to Japanese
quality control to guarantee a high standard. While On is the Founder, he takes pride in being front of house at the centre, “I handle almost every booking activity myself, I want customers to feel like they’re being served by someone who owns the company.” With many eyelash treatments and extensions on the market, On wants to remind people
to be cautious, especially when it comes to more dramatic lashes. “eyelash extension should never affect your natural lashes growth cycle or cause abnormal fall out. Dramatic lash volume can overload your eyelid or cause unusual loss of lashes,” he says. To avoid this The PLACE adopts a natural design that avoids any harm. theplaceeyelash.com
factor because the humidity affects the longevity of cosmetics. However, it’s also beneficial for those who are allergic to cosmetic products and new mothers who need the convenience of looking and feeling ready.” In fact, with the mandatory mask law Chung states that there has been an increase in women getting lip tattoos, as they don’t smudge in the mask. Chung’s most recent milestone is the launch of the MOKO branch of High Society Skin Clinic. Opening just last month the clinic offers a range of face and body treatments and a space to relax and unwind. “I’ve had so many negative
experiences at beauty salons where treatments were interrupted to upsell. I wanted to eliminate this and create an experience focused solely on the client and the purpose of them being there; a little self-love.” highsocietyskinclinic.com
REBECCA CHUNG FOUNDER OF HIGH SOCIETY SKIN CLINIC, PRINCESS BROWS, HOUSE OF PMU, G.E.L LASHES AND GLOWAGEN With an array of successful beauty companies under her belt, one would assume Rebecca Chung has always had a passion for beauty and healthcare, but she actually started her working life as a music teacher. It was only when Chung reached the age of 30 and had her first child that she decided to make a pivotal change in her career. “Initially, I decided to learn permanent makeup as a hobby, but quickly realised that there were a lack of specialists in Hong Kong and decided to create Princess Brows and my other vertically-integrated ventures,” she says. “I felt it was a dying art and couldn’t find someone to do it to an exemplary standard with quality tools and pigments.” At the beginning of her business venture Chung admits to being the guinea pig for many treatments, “I wanted to ensure that every part of the experience for my clients was up to my standards of quality.” Today, semi-permanent makeup has become a very popular trend with people frequently opting for it over traditional cosmetics, “Hong Kong’s climate is definitely one beneficial
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What is your everyday beauty routine? I am a firm believer in the no-makeup makeup look. I have semi-permanent makeup, which saves me a great deal of time. Most importantly I take my Glowagen supplement every day to glow from the inside out.
beauty
DOLMA GURUNG FOUNDER OF DOLMA WAXING BOUTIQUE As one of Hong Kong’s most trusted waxing boutiques, Dolma Gurung and her team strive to offer their clients premier brazilian waxing and hair removal treatments including bikini waxes and eyebrow threading. Gurung previously worked for premier spas and salons in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and even took on the role of a personal beautician to a royal family. She moved to Hong Kong in 1997 with the dream of opening her own boutique. “I’ve always wanted to offer personalised, high quality treatments to my clients in a friendly environment. By running my own salon I can be assured we are using the industry’s best practices.” After working in top Hong Kong salons including the Firm and Salon Chandler along with celebrity hairstylist Shayne Chandler, she officially opened Dolma Waxing Boutique in 2007. Originally from Nepal, Gurung has always been passionate about beauty. “I started getting facials when I was in my early teens,” she says.
Located in the heart of Central on Queens Road, Dolma Waxing Boutique is the perfect place for busy office workers to get a quick and efficient treatment without needing to travel. While the salon had to close for an extended period last year, Gurung remained positive.
“We had regular communication with our clients and managed to run the business as soon as the Government allowed.” She even plans to open her second salon in Tsim Sha Tsui in the coming year. brazilianwaxing.com.hk
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dining
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Dining
dining
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dining
THE PERFECT PICNIC
Amber Lai rounds up the best picnic baskets and spots this springtime Ali Olis
The well-established bakery allows you to order its range of products online. Tailor your meal to your preference with quiches, pies and sweet pastries. While it doesn’t offer them in a basket, its proximity to Sai Kung means you can pick up high-quality food for a day at the beach. alioli.com.hk
Bricklan
With four locations across Hong Kong, Bricklane has made picnic baskets accessible for everyone. With a standard option for both meat-eaters and vegetarians, the basket includes various sandwiches, salads, fries, brownies and a bottle of house wine. From $450 for two. bricklane.com.hk
FAM
Enjoy the panoramic views of West Kowloon Cultural District, while tucking into a traditional dim sum picnic set complete with turnip cake and roasted pork buns from FAM. Diners also get the choice of soft drinks, juices or Heroes beer to quench their thirst. $498 for two. shop.openvrshop.com
Ritz Carlton
The Ritz Carlton not only offers a picnic basket but even a butler service to set up your dreamy date. Situated sky high above the West Kowloon Cultural District, it’s an easy and dependable option for satisfying service. Filled with sandwiches, charcuteries, pastries and juices, it’s got everything you need for a day out. There are even additional options like champagne and caviar for a picnic fit for royalty. $788 for two (without butler). ritzcarltonhkshop.com
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perfect picnic Rajasthan Rifles
Head up to The Peak for an Indian inspired picnic basket from Rajasthan Rifles. The basket includes blankets, enamel crockery and a flask. Start off with nibbles of samosas, fried peanuts and cashews before digging into its signature chicken tikka club sandwich. For the perfect sweet treat, enjoy fruit, a chocolate brownie and toffee puddings. $498 for two. rajasthanrifles. com
Mandarin Oriental
A luxury picnic basket filled with gastronomic delights including Mandarin Oriental’s signature 1963 Mandarin Cheesecake, cheese and cold cuts, lobster cocktail and a loaf of focaccia bread. Preorder the selection and walk just 10 minutes to Tamar park for the perfect afternoon of relaxation. From $1488. hongkong. mandarinorientalshop.com
Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park
Set beside the Victoria Harbour, this memorial park keeps a statue of the esteemed Chinese revolutionary at the centre of it all. It is a great location for picnics, being so accessible for islanders and with plenty of space to nab a comfortable spot according to your own preferences.
Victoria Peak Garden Only a short 15-minute walk from The Peak Galleria awaits a lush meadow perfect for a picnic in the mountains. The Victorian-style pagodas and garden layout emanate an old school charm that you’d be hard pressed to find elsewhere in Hong Kong.
Tamar Park
Located conveniently in the heart of Admiralty, Tamar Park is an obvious choice for an outdoor escape without having to travel far. The park offers panoramic views of the Hong Kong skyline, so you can sit back and relax while looking out over the city’s iconic harbour.
Inspiration Lake
If you’re looking for a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, you should put this Lantau park on your radar. The serene Inspiration Lake sits right next to Hong Kong Disneyland and is set against the backdrop of hilly terrains and a sundappled lake.
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nibbles
Dining News
Easter brunching Take your family to the beach for an Easter weekend filled with sunshine and smiles at Bathers in Lantau. The beach-side restaurant will host its breakfast menu until 11am over
the long weekend alongside an all-day-dining menu. The kids menu and a selection of wines will keep everyone happy. bathers.com.hk
LMO Freshly-Baked is back
Easter goodies at Shoku
Mandarin Oriential’s Richard Ekkebus is partnering up with Valentin Mille for a three month pop up at LANDMARK. The popup will include new confections such as supersized cookies and lemon madeleines. Sought-after signatures like canelés, pistachio cookies and a brownie and cookie hybrid will also be on offer.
The Japanese grill is firing up for Easter with a festive-themed menu. Children and adults will love its fresh salad decorated with bunny rabbits and rice balls shaped like eggs. A seasonal dessert, Sakura crème brûlée takes inspiration from Japanese cherry blossoms. Be sure to get there early and enjoy special sushi box. shoku.hk
Pinkies up The Lobby Lounge of Island Shangri-La has rolled out a series of festive celebrations. Served with a selection of signature teas, the Easter afternoon tea set features pastries such as a coffee chocolate bird’s nest and an Easter carrot cake. shangri-la.com
Afternoon tea in Italy Collaborating with luxury Italian jewelry brand Pomellato, Café 103 at the Ritz Carlton Hong Kong will be offering a new afternoon tea set with an Italian Flair. Until May 31 guests can
enjoy four savory and six sweet items paying homage to Pomellato’s Italian roots, including Smoked Salmon Cannoli and Raspberry Balsamic Compote Panna Cotta. ritzcarlton.com
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YOUR FAVORITE EXERCISE ITEMS TO YOUR DOOR
easter goodies
Happy Easter basket $928 from Fortnum & Mason fortnumandmason.com
Mini eggs cardboard pack $185 from Venchi venchi.com.hk
s a h g n Spri
g n u r p s
Easter goodies and sweet treats
Renewing Collection $390 from RITUALS rituals.com
Easter fun bundle $638 from Peninsula Boutique peninsulaboutique.com
Carrot cake $450 from Butter butterbutterbutter.com.hk
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secrets
Pok Fu Lam Village The last standing pre-colonial village on Hong Kong Island
If you’ve ever driven or walked past Pok Fu Lam Road, way past the Christian cemetery and slightly farther of Béthanie, you can easily see the big cluster of shacks with tiled ceilings and telephone wires spread across the roofs like intricate spider-webs. In passing, none of us would probably pay much attention to these slum-like looking houses. But Pok Fu Lam Village has more than meets the eye. The first written account of Pok Fu Lam village was in 1819, decades before the British settlers arrived. The village was one of the only two villages on Hong Kong Island, the other being Aberdeen village further south. Today, it is the only village left on the island. Loose accounts trace back to the 1670s, when several clans fled from China and settled in Hong Kong after a revolt against the ruling emperor of the Qing Dynasty. The original settlers formed a tight-knit community. Unlike the clumps of houses we see now - the village then occupied much more territory, from Waterfall Bay (near
Cyberport today) to the White Tiger Mountain. Villages were blessed by Hong Kong’s preurbanisation landscape and abundant natural resources. Streams that flow into the Bay allowed the villagers to cultivate rice and other vegetables, supporting their idyllic and selfsufficient life. The village faced its first mass transformation when British Settlers arrived. Around the area, churches, reservoirs and mansions were built and mountains were renamed into anglophile-friendly alterations. The biggest change was without doubt in the late 19th century, when a dairy farm was established next to the village. The land became a huge farm which feed herds of cows. But this was a change for the better as the dairy farm, became a kingpin in the area and employed half of the villagers. Post-war, the village slowly turned into what we see today. With rapid urban developments around Hong Kong Island, the village map shrunk dramatically and nowadays Pok Fu Lam struggles to live up to its former
glory. Government notices for redevelopment are breathing down villagers’ necks. The houses and structures of the village are under-maintained and deeply-unappealing in juxtaposition with modern estates nearby. Studies conducted by journalists and developers reveal that the village faces serious risk of demolition. There have been concerns that this valuable piece of history will be shamefully wiped out. However, in 2014, the village earned a place on the World Monument Fund WatchList and since then, programmes have been launched to restore old houses and upgrade the village community. Watch this space to see how Pok Fu Lam village develops over the coming year.
Want to visit this historic village in person? Take bus 40M, 37A from Central and get off at Pok Fu Lam village.
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pets
Ask a vet... Dr Pauline Taylor on a cruel reality of our favourite Easter animals Dr Pauline Pets Central veterinarian With Easter upon us we are inundated with pictures of cute happy little chickens and baby rabbits. Rabbits make lovely pets and there are over 300 global breeds, from Netherland Dwarf to Flemish Giants all descended by selective breeding from the European rabbit. Chickens too are much loved as pets in many parts of the world and can become very attached to the family they live with. However, because of the demands of our food chain, billions of these animals do not have a life worth living nowadays. While you keep this sad fact in mind let me share some other points about these cute animals with you. All about chickens Chickens, like birds, were first noticed and painted on pottery around 8000 years ago in areas of SE Asia and originated from a member of the pheasant family, a bird called the red junglefowl. A male is called a rooster or cockerel and is distinguished from the female hen by its colourful plumage and head comb. Free range chickens are omnivores, pecking their food from the soil as they strut around in flocks, raising broods of young that hatch after a 21-day incubation period from multi coloured eggs. The egg colour is determined by the genetics of the hen. They are very social, inquisitive and exhibit interesting behaviour, and creatures who feel pain and distress.
All about rabbits ‘Easter bunnies’ associated with the beginning of Spring/ Easter’ are found wild all over the world except in Antarctica. Descended from the European rabbit native to the Iberian Peninsula, its introduction has often had devastating effects on local biodiversity, causing problems with the environment and ecosystems. Wild rabbits live in underground burrows where females give birth after 30 days gestation, to hairless and blind young rabbits called kittens. A lot is not known about these prey animals, but some facts are. Rabbits have many predators including cats, badgers, ferrets, stoats, weasel, fox and rats, who especially go after the young. Rabbits eat a variety of grasses favouring young succulent nutritious leaves. Their ear flaps can turn almost 360 degrees to pick up threatening sounds and guard duty rabbits thump their feet to alert the family to danger when they are grazing above ground.
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horoscope
Written in the stars Letao Wang, The Kingdom Healer shares his insights on what the stars hold for you this month AQUARIUS Your relationships will take an unexpected turn that might cause you to feel slightly insecure. This change will bring a necessary update in how you live with your partner and will renew the love in your bonds. It is a propitious time to plan your future together and discard old rules.
TAURUS You will feel strong and have material stability this month Taurus. The planetary configuration creates a prosperous environment for your professional life. However, try not to lock yourself out of your way of seeing life. Dare to discover new ways of thinking.
LEO An intense season in your life is coming, Leo. Your work may be demanding a lot from you, which can exhaust you in ways you never knew existed. However, avoid confrontation with individuals in management positions. Power struggles will not be favorable because you would likely end up losing.
SCORPIO If you think you can increase and sustain the amount of work you have in mind, you’re in for a surprise, Scorpio. The illusion of power that you are clinging to is coming to an end and you will realise it when it is too late. Do not neglect your health or your relationships to try to achieve an unattainable goal.
PISCES The relationship with your siblings will take prominence at this time. If there are issues to resolve between you, this is the ideal opportunity to do so. The planets will favor communication, which will help you understand each other without the need to reach a confrontation.
GEMINI You will feel a strong desire to change your life, Gemini. However, try not to get carried away by enthusiasm. Plan your ideas properly and be aware of the people who accompany you along the way. Be careful not to lose yourself over your fantasies, as they can lead you away from your goals.
VIRGO Great energy takes over all your senses. You will be encouraged to try new forms of exercise and make them part of your routine. Also, if you have any romantic interests, it is advisable to take the initiative. The other person will notice you quickly when they see interest on your part.
SAGITTARIUS You will feel very comfortable doing activities that stimulate your intellect. However, be careful not to give too much attention to the left hemisphere of your brain. This can lead you to neglect your emotional life. Focus on your relationships to improve them, Sagittarius.
thehealingkingdom.com
ARIES This will be a period of considerable movement. The planetary alignment encourages intellectual discussions, so your studies will take on great importance. Try to respect others’ opinions in the same way that you expect yours to be considered. Remember that it is not always necessary to be right, Aries.
CANCER You are likely to feel that this is a stressful period, Cancer. Different challenges will demand a lot of your energy, which can lead to emotional imbalance. However, be your best ally and you will make the right decision. Trust the person you are and be receptive to the affection of your loved ones.
LIBRA You have been very busy lately, but now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. No need to rush into new projects, Libra. You deserve a good rest and to share your success with your loved ones. A vacation to a nearby place will help you take a break from your usual environment.
CAPRICORN You have to find all your inner strength during this period, Capricorn. The opportunity to achieve your goals will be at your fingertips, but you must work hard not to lose them. It will be a demanding time, in which you will have to leave enjoyment and free time in the background for a while.
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marketplace
marketplace
To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772.
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zim city
Millions invested into Hong Kong’s country parks Paul Zimmerman shares his advice on how the AFCD can avoid silly investments in dragon claws
The Financial Secretary has set aside $500 million to carry out enhancement works in country parks: lookout points, treetop adventure camps, glamping sites, toilet improvements, barbeque sites and revitalising wartime relics. He promises that these will integrate with the natural surroundings and cater for the needs of all ages. The ludicrous star gazing seats at Tai Long Sai Wan and the dragon claw that was quickly removed at Dragon’s Back give little comfort. Let’s keep the improvements simple. Instead of ‘stargazing sites’ we can add benches along trails. Identifying wartime relics with information panels will do. Turning them into museums would be over the top. Doubtful is this plan for “glamping” sites. Instead, let’s coordinate different departments to allow villagers to convert property into lodgings. Let’s incorporate village enclaves under country park management to lessen their burden on the surrounding environment. Another $55 million has been set aside for improving ten popular hiking trails with tourism potential. We have yet to see the locations and alignments. Certainly additional
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funding for our country parks are overdue. Covering some 40 percent of our land, they have proven their worth. As with SARS in 2003 and now with Covid, the hundreds of kilometers of pathways through unadulterated nature have helped many keep fit and sane.
With the long spell of very dry weather, many trails are now crying out for repairs. Diverting visitors by improving the capacity of easily accessible trails may help. Carefully opening up more trails to reduce the pressure on worn out routes is needed too. This has to be balanced with the risk of disturbing wildlife. Here lies the challenge. There has been hardly any increase in funding for manpower. Not for wardens, nor for management. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) needs manpower to coordinate different departments to equip the start of trails at transport nodes (which are mostly outside country parks) with refuse and recycling bins, as well as toilets. We need management to rethink transportation through Sai Kung and other country parks, now overrun by taxis and minibuses (let’s have a park bus and ban others). Management time is also needed for expediting the designation of Robin’s Nest as a new country park. More than hardware, AFCD needs people to look after our parks and to talk to the community to avoid silly investments in dragon claws.
Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, a Southern District Councillor and the co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks alliance.
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