DINING | DAYS OUT | FAMILY | PETS
January 2021
Tai O
tripping Explore the traditional fishing village
Southside gets artsy The Invigorating Island South project takes off
Invest into 2021
Mina Miyagawa on the future of jewellery investment
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CONTENTS — 01/21
17 COVER STORY
Investing into 2021 with Mina Miyagawa
4 CONTRIBUTORS
15 LOCAL
Meet the team
A look at the Invigorating Island South project
6 PEOPLE
21 DINING
Southsiders out and about
Vegitarian restaurants and menus
8 THE PLANNER
26 BIG DAY OUT
What’s on in 2021
Explore Tai O, the remote fishing village
10 NEWS
30 MUST HAVES THIS MONTH
What’s happening in our backyard
32 PETS
Dr Pauline on moving house with pets
33 HOROSCOPES
We reveal your 2021 fate
35 SOUTHSIDE SECRETS
The Hong Kong Life Saving Society
36 ZIM CITY
District Councillor Paul Zimmerman on the islandsouth initative
All the gear you need to explore the outdoors
13 FIVE MINUTES WITH
Sunaina Chand, founder and CEO, Vivaz Fine Jewelry
30 15
8
35
10
26
21 “The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot”- Michael Altshuler
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editor’s letter Happy New Year Southsiders. While we may have had a quieter festive season than usual, it has given us the opportunity to prepare ourselves for a fresh year ahead. And what better way to prepare than to start investing for the future. This month Mina Miyagawa graces our cover, as a jewellery designer and investment adviser, she knows a thing or two about saving. She shares her advice on how and why you should invest in jewellery for the upcoming year (page 17). Southside will be getting a bit of a makeover this year with the upcoming Invigorating Island South project, which will see the area transform into an arts and tourism destination. Find out what’s to come in our local story (page 15). While we will all be staying put for a little while in Hong Kong, there’s no better excuse to get out and explore some of its more traditional spots. This month we ventured over to Tai O, a popular fishing village on the outskirts of the city. Read where to eat, shop and stay (page 26). Wishing you a wonderful start to the new year.
Editorial Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Senior Staff Writer Charmaine Ng, charmaineng@hongkongliving.com Contributing Editors Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Amber Lai, amber@hongkongliving.com Digital Editor Ching Yuen, ching@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 Head of Digital Content Isamonia Chui, isamonia@hongkongliving.com Sales & Partnership Manager Elaine Li, elaine@hongkongliving.com Debbie Ky, debbie@hongkongliving.com Circulation Manager
Things we love
Pranali Gupta, pranali@hongkongliving.com
Publisher Matt Eaton, matt@hongkongliving.com
Founding Director Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong
DINING | DAYS OUT | FAMILY | PETS
January 2021
Tai O
tripping Explore the traditional fishing village
Vegan beauty products
Giving back
What better way to start the year than with a bit of guilt-free pampering. Independent Hong Kong vegan and natural cruelty-free skincare brand, SKIN NEED has launched a body line featuring lotions, lip balms and pillow spray. skinneed.com
Dog food subscription delivery service Buddy Bites is donating 1kg of dog food for every 2kg brought to local dog shelters across Hong Kong. The first shelter partner is Catherine’s Puppies, located in Sai Kung. buddybites.dog
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HONG KONG hongkongliving.com
Southside gets artsy The Invigorating Island South project takes off
Invest into 2021
Mina Miyagawa on the future of jewellery investment
1a SS Cover_V2.indd 1
23/12/2020 4:58 PM
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
Sunaina Chand Founder and CEO, Vivaz Fine Jewelry, Sunaina Chand built her business from the ground up and hopes to see more opportunities coming her way this year. Read all about the secret to her success in our five minutes with interview.
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 explains the Invigorate Island South initiative.
Letao Wang Founder of the Healing Kingdom, Letao has been practising professional astrology andspiritual counselling in Hong Kong for over seven years. He reveals what’s in store for each sign this year in our horoscope section.
Mina Miyagawa As a jewellery designer and investment advisor, Mina Miyagawa believes natural stones and coloured diamonds are the future of investment. Miyagawa shares her knowledge and advice for investing during 2021 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 all your smiling faces around Southside. karinbremer.com
Amber Lai Joining the Hong Kong Living team is Amber Lai. As Dining Editor, she is passionate about all things food. Lai rounds up the best vegetarian restaurants across town in this month’s dining 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
FEB 12-15
Chinese New Year
Photo: Sunny Lee
Kung Hei Fat Choi, ring in the Year of the Ox with markets, lion dances and Lai See.
JAN 23
HK50 Race three of the HK50 series covering distances of 6km, 10km, 25km or 54km. 7am-5pm. $280. Shing Mun Reservoir Catchwater, Tsuen Wan. actionasiaevents.com
JAN 10
Virtual Stride For a Cure Choose a 5km or 10km hike around Tai Tam Country Park to raise money for the Hong Kong Cancer Fund. 9am-2pm. $500. cancer-fund.org
JAN 19-24
Hong Kong Race Week Based out of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club’s Middle Island facility, racing will be conducted across four race courses in the areas of Middle Island, Repulse Bay, Deep Water Bay, Stanley, Tai Tam and Beaufort. 9am-6.30pm. Free. hongkongraceweek.com
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MAR 19
Green Day Live Jam out to the bands thirteenth studio album, Father Of All… 8pm. From $588. AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau. premier.hkticketing.com
MAY 21-23 Art Basel
Throughout may, art enthusiasts can enjoy an array of art exhibitions and shows including the internationally known, Art Basel. Prices and times to be announced. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. artbasel.com
what’s on JUN 14
NOV 26-28
Watch local and international teams compete to win in multiple dragon boat races taking place across the city. dragonboat.org.hk
Undoubtedly one of Hong Kong’s biggest music events of the year has taken a two year break but is expected to be better than ever this year. Ticket prices to be announced. Central Harbourfront Event Space. clockenflap.com
Dragon Boat Festival
Clockenflap
JUL 2-6
Hong Kong International Jewellery Show Surround yourself with the glitz and glam with hundreds of vendors and jewellery making workshops. 10:30am-6:30pm. Free. AsiaWorldExpo, Lantau. event.hktdc.com
SEP 21
Mid-Autumn Festival Grab your lanterns, eat a moon cake and celebrate across Hong Kong.
OCT 29
(hopefully) after a year break. Grab your pint and let’s party. Ticket prices to be announced. Hong Kong Stadium, So Kon Po, Causeway Bay. hksevens.com
Shi Fu Miz A three day festival on the remote island of Cheung Chau with live music from local artists, performances, activites, food and more. 6-10:30pm. From $380. Sai Yuen Camping & Adventure Park, Cheung Chau. shifumiz.com
NOV 5-7
DEC 25
Hong Kong’s biggest spring event is back
Is it too early to start counting down already?
Rugby Sevens
Christmas
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news
Covid at your convenience
Kellett School gets sporty To bolster the sporting spirit, Kellett School has appointed international rugby player Jamie Hood and former South England netball player Suzanne Gardner as Head of Rugby 7s and Head of Netball respectively. The two teachers bring with them years of experience in coaching, playing and teaching. With the new additions, Kellett seeks to cement itself as one of the top
Those of you who take the MTR to work may have noticed the newest MTR arrangements. MTR stations across the city have installed vending machines distributing Covid-19 specimen collection packs. There are signs to point out the location of each vending machine within the stations and MTR staff are on hand to assist with the process in case of complications. By using vending machines, the MTR hopes to make the specimen pack collection process more convenient for testing. Do note that the MTR will not be responsible for collecting the specimen packs after use. You will have to go to the designated collection points to hand over the used packs.
sporting schools in the region. “We’re absolutely thrilled to have such high-calibre athletes joining Kellett’s team teaching sport, and we look forward to seeing many more personal and team successes for our students in the future,” says Principal & CEO Mark Steed. Discover more about Kellett School and its sports programme at kellettschool.com
The world’s most overworked city Despite efforts to try to draw more attention to employee’s mental and physical health, Hong Kong was recently ranked as the top overworked city in the world. An online website with a focus on offering cloud servers announced the new 2020 rankings for ‘Top Overworked Cities in the world’ as well as the ‘Cities with the Best Work-Life Balance’. The criteria for both rankings
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range from working hours to paid leave, from distress activities to air quality. Next to being the top overworked city, Hong Kong also has the highest average of working hours per week. The average worker spends more than 44 hours at work every week. A third of Hong Kong employees work more than 48 hours per week, compared to Oslo’s average of 39 working hours.
Fullerton comes to town International hotel group, Fullerton has announced plans for its new Ocean Park based hotel to open this year. The second Ocean Park based hotel will have two 10-storey blocks on a three-level podium and around 400 rooms and suites. With multiple dining venves, meeting rooms and event facilities, the hotel is equipped for both business and pleasure guests. The Fullerton branch has recently added “Resorts” to its name, allowing the group to expand from a business hotel to holiday resort. The Hong Kong branch will be the first Fullerton Hotels and Resorts new build and will offer direct access to Ocean Park along with panoramic views of the ocean. fullertonhotels.com
in your backyard
Learn German Kick off the year with new language skills. Goethe-Institut Hong Kong, the only provider of internationally recognised German examination in the city, has opened up enrolment for its Adult, Teens,
and Kids courses in 2021. Adults (16 years and over) looking to learn German or to further enhance their language skills can sign up for Goethe-Institut’s five-course terms of 2021. Teens and kids courses are
also open for enrolment, with 12- or 15-week in-classroom course options. For more course details, visit goethe.de/ins/cn/en/sta/hon/kur.html
Safe staycations Adhering to ever-changing government restrictions, Airbnb has announced that hosts and guests must agree to follow its Covid-19 Safety Practices, which include wearing a mask, practising social distancing, and, for hosts, abiding by a five-step enhanced cleaning process. All hosts in Hong Kong are now prompted to commit to the new practices and guests will be asked to agree to the guidelines when they book a listing. To ensure the rules are followed, those who do not commit may be subject to warnings, suspensions and, in some cases, removal from the Airbnb platform. Staycationers can now breathe a sigh of relief – healthier stays are in store for this January. airbnb.com
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five minutes with
Five minutes with
Sunaina Chand Nicole Slater talks diamonds and dreams with the founder and CEO of Vivaz Fine Jewelry
Drawn to Hong Kong’s charm, energy and convenience, Sunaina Chand moved to the city from Japan nearly 20 years ago. After finding her passion for diamonds, she left her job in public relations and marketing to study natural diamonds at the Gemological Institute of America in Hong Kong. Chand realised the lack of transparency in the industry early on. “Clients were not entirely educated about the details of their solitaire engagement rings before making a purchase. A ring represents so much more than what the eyes see, so I wanted to ensure my clients understood the details beyond the four C’s (cut, colour, clarity and carat) and appreciated the craftsmanship and precision of each diamond. This led me to start Vivaz Fine Jewelry,” says Chand. Chand is a true believer in diamonds as heirlooms but also equally as great investments. “If informed well, diamonds make a great investment. Having a high intrinsic value, they are always in demand. Like most gems and precious metals, past performance shows they will increase in value over time,” she says. Having worked with the precious stone for years, Chand is drawn to a particluar style. “The most appealing characteristic of a diamond is the Heart and Arrow Cut. In a round diamond, the luster is clearly defined by the set of eight hearts and eight arrows, which is a sign of excellent optical symmetry.” A superior cut which was initially noticed by Kinsaku Yamashita and eventually trademarked in 1988. “A simple solitaire diamond in the form of stud earrings, a ring or pendant are classic options and will be treasured for a lifetime,” says Chand. “My very first pair of solitaire diamond earrings were gifted to me by my father, as a parting gift before I made my way to Hong Kong. He is an inspiration and a constant source of encouragement as I continue to build Vivaz from the ground up.” Chand’s hard work has paid off and she now has a network of loyal clients and collaborations with luxury designers, including Giovanni Ferraris and Paolo Costagli. Chand has collaborated with diamond sightholders creating styles with a team of designers, together pushing boundaries of innovation with two-in-one or even threein-one concept styles. Adding a new layer to what today is referred to as classic fine diamond jewellery. By keeping an open mind, Chand has been able to maneuver around the events of the past year but hopes to see a positive shift and better opportunities for those who need it most this year. vivazluxury.com
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Southside gets artsy
local
‘Invigorating Island South’ is set to transform the neighbourhood into an arts and tourism destination. By Charmaine Ng
Over the past few years, Southside has slowly gained a reputation as one of Hong Kong’s most captivating creative districts. Filled with art galleries, trendy eateries and boutique hotels, Wong Chuk Hang, for example, has become a destination for art lovers from all over the city. Years on, it seems the government has finally caught on to the merits of the up-andcoming district. During her annual address at the Legislative Council in late November, chief executive Carrie Lam announced that the Southern District will be ‘invigorated’ into an arts hub and tourist spot. Led by the government, the new project is named ‘Invigorating Island South’ and includes
the reopening of Ocean Park; the revitalisation of Jumbo Floating Restaurant; the construction of a new water sports facility at the Shek O and perhaps most excitingly – for us at Hong Kong Living, at least – the launch of a new water theme park. For Ocean Park, the government looks to enhance its educational and conservation investments. With an aim to develop marine tourism and provide easy commuting, a water taxi shuttle service between Aberdeen, Repulse Bay and Shek O will also be launched. Meanwhile, the 40-year-old Jumbo Floating Restaurant will be donated to Ocean Park at no cost. While it is not clear what is in store for the iconic restaurant yet, we’ve heard that it will be
run by an NGO on a self-financing basis. Last, but definitely not least, Wong Chuk Hang and Aberdeen will continue to transform into an arts and culture hub. The government has proposed to lend a hand in its development, fast-tracking the repurposing and redevelopment of old industrial buildings in the two neighbourhoods. The new spaces will serve as studios for emerging artists and creative businesses. 2020 has been tumultuous for all of us Southsiders – first the closing of Ocean Park, then the shuttering of Jumbo Floating Restaurant. But the new year has brought about new hope and it seems that the future for the Southern District still shines as bright as ever.
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cover story
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cover story
Invest in style this 2021 Jewellery designer and investments advisor, Mina Miyagawa shares her tricks and tips for a successful year ahead. By Charmaine Ng SOUTHSIDE | 17
cover story When we think of investment, our mind tends to veer in the direction of real estate and stocks. But not for Mina Miyagawa, a jewellery designer, investment advisor and appraiser in Hong Kong, who grew up surrounded by stones. As her parents owned a gemstone cutting factory, Miyagawa took an interest in jewellery early on. Because of her family background, she spent her formative years observing different types of natural stones and looking into their potential for investment. In her twenties, while her friends were buying into property and stocks, Miyagawa turned towards individual coloured diamonds – much to the chagrin of everyone around her. But years on, the value of these stones has surged significantly, making her efforts well rewarded. During this time, Miyagawa also kickstarted her career as a jewellery designer, opening up her eponymous brand. “In Hong Kong, jewellery investment is in
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its beginning stage,” she tells Hong Kong Living. “People here are used to buying jewellery as gifts. In other regions, however, jewellery investment is very common. This may be because you don’t need to pay so much to invest as there are gemstones which only require a relatively low budget to get started with.” Having been in the business since 1995, Miyagawa has seen how the jewellery industry has changed. Decades ago, people were only looking for mass-produced jewellery in shopping malls. At the same time, it seemed like round white diamonds were the only choice for engagement rings. There wasn’t much variety in the market because people were unfamiliar with the different options out there. The change only came about in recent years, as more and more people looked towards celebrities such as the British royal family for inspiration. Slowly, public interest has
stylish investing
edged away from simply white diamonds to coloured gemstones like aquamarine. “The ratio of coloured diamonds to white diamonds is 1:100,000,” says Miyagawa, when asked about the types of jewels that are popular today. “So, instead of white diamonds, I always suggest my customers go for coloured diamonds. And in terms of colours, pink diamonds are the primary choice. I say this because the argyle mine in Australia, which produces 90 percent of pink diamonds in the world,
is going close this year. So, the value of fancy intense pink diamonds is expected to increase by 443 percent in near future.” For those who want to dip into the world of jewellery investment, Miyagawa has a few words of advice. “Different jewels have a different criteria, so do your research carefully,” she says. “For example, if you are looking for a piece of aquamarine, a Santa Maria grade is the most investable; if you are looking at a piece of emerald, the origin is of top priority, with emerald from Colombia being the best.”
About
Mina Miyagawa At her shop, which offers jewellery from all around the world, Miyagawa doles out advice to her customers, suggesting to them which pieces to buy according to their budget and market trends. Not only does her brand offer investable jewels, but it has also branched out to custom-made jewellery and kept the heritage of hand-drawn designs. “Our factory has mastered various setting skills like invisible setting and millegrain setting – skills that are fading out in Hong Kong. We offer services for customers to customise a new ring or renew old jewellery or setting items. And, while hand-drawn designs are no longer common in Hong Kong and replaced by computer design, we still design by hand, engaging our customers every step of the way.” If you are looking to invest in yourself, Miyagawa welcomes you to book an online consultation or drop in for a meeting at her shop in IFC. Find out more about the brand’s services at minajw.com
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dining
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credit: Amalfitana
Dining
dining
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dining
Go green Veg out this New Year with these vegetarian restaurants and menus. By Amber Lai El Charro Mexican food is a fun and flavourful option for vegetarian diners. With a hearty selection of classic mexican items such as tacos, quesadillas and burritos, you’ll be spoilt for choice at El Charro. For a true taste of Mexico, add a side of homemade salsa and guacamole. The Arcade, 100 Cyberport Road, Pok Fu Lam. elcharro.hk
BIJAS vegetarian Situated in the University of Hong Kong Centennial Campus, BIJAS is a social enterprise vegetarian restaurant that offers both dine in and take out. The restaurant puts a vegetarian spin on traditional Chinese dishes including steamed taro cake, vegetables in seaweed soup and vegetarian dumplings. Run Run Shaw Tower, Centennial Campus, Pok Fu Lam Road. cedars.hku.hk
El Charro
Miss Lee On a mission to make delicious Chinese-style food available for everyone, Miss Lee offers a fully vegetarian menu of modern Chinese cuisine. By dividing its menu to feature greens, fungi, soy, marrow and grain, the restaurant hopes to satisfy every palate and craving. G/F, The Wellington, 198 Wellington Street, Central. misslee.hk
Komune
Amalfitana Swap your meat cravings for cheese, with one of Amalfitana’s six vegetarian pizzas. The beachfront restaurant serves up classics including margarita and quattro formaggi to the more unique, rustica pizza topped with
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various mushrooms. With a range of Italian antipasti there is an abundance of vegetarian starters to experiment with too. G/F, The Pulse, 28, 105 Beach Road, Repulse Bay. amalfitana.hk
As part of Ovolo’s Year of the Veg campaign, Komune has gone fully vegetarian. The menu includes a range of breakfasts and international mains such as Green Risotto and Charred Guacamole and Tomato Waffle. As a vegetarian himself, head chef Raul Tronco has spent the past few months creating a vegetarian menu that pushes the boundaries of cooking with vegetables. 64 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen. komune.com.hk
veg out Leaves & Liberty For the entire month of January, Beef & Liberty’s flagship restaurant in California Tower will be taken over by its plantbased, sister brand Leaves & Liberty to offer diners
an 100 percent vegetarian menu. The pop-up menu will feature a range of delicious and nourishing vegetarian dishes created by chef Neil Tomes using seasonal vegetables, fruit and nuts. leaves-liberty.com.hk
Veggie SF Stanley Street is home to a completely vegetarian restaurant, inspired by the fabulous 50’s. The San Francisco themed restaurant puts a vegetarian twist on the classic American diner experience with vegan beef or soy patties and a unique take on international classics like gado gado and bibimbap. 10/F, 11 Stanley Street, Central. veggiesf.com
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nibbles
Dining News The House of Aperitivo As it prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary, Italian restaurant 208 Duecento Otto has unveiled a new and improved menu, featuring fresh Italian ingredients and signature drinks including a Duecentotto Spritz and the Negroni-like Balsiamo. Upstairs, the revamped menu includes homemade pastas, miniature meatballs made from Australian Wagyu beef and raw Italian red prawns paired with a lusciously creamy burrata cheese imported from Andria. 208.com.hk
Bread to beer Four students from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have been brewing something special amid the pandemic, Breer. In Hong Kong, 3,600 tonnes of food is wasted every day, Noticing the huge amount of surplus bread around local bakeries, the team partnered up with local beer-maker BlackKite Brewery to transform leftover bread into craft lagers and pale ales. Along with the brews, the students have also created the Breer App. At its current stage, the app connects collection points and dispatch to make logistics more transparent. In the future, it will be used to manage bakeries, breweries and distribution partners. breer.org
Dang Wen Li by Dominique Ansel pops up in IFC Mall Following its huge success internationally, Dang Wen Li by Dominique Ansel opened a pop-up store in IFC. You can purchase one of its signature viennoiserie, croissants and secret new creations to be released weekly. If that isn’t enough for you, the first 10 customers each day will receive free goodies. dangwenli.com
Classified Rises through the pandemic Popular Hong Kong-based restaurant group Classified has opened a new bakery, Rise by Classified. Wanting to provide customers with a more casual option, the artisanal bakery offers lighter choices for a quick but delicious breakfast or a sugar rush in the afternoon. risebyclassified.com
Feather & Bone opens its sixth store Pazta opens in Tai Kwun Tai Kwun welcomed a new Italian restaurant Pazta, last month. The restaurant offers over ten pastas and main courses, ranging from the regions of Tuscany, Bologna, Rome and more. With the iconic Italian piazzas in mind, Pasta wanted to create an open environment for guests to meet, drink and unwind after a busy day. taikwun.hk
The popular butcher has ventured over to the darkside this month with its new location in Sai Kung. Feather & Bone is famous for its grain-fed and grass-fed meats (mainly from Australia), along with a large selection of cheeses, wines and spirits. The new shop will also introduce a complimentary beef dry-ageing programme to keep your meats at their best. featherandbone.com.hk
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big day out
Welcome to the Venice of Hong Kong Nicole Slater explores Tai O, one of the cities oldest fishing villages Well known for its iconic stilt houses and quaint atmosphere, Tai O fishing village has secured its place on the map this year. Since travel restrictions have been in place, Tai O has become a hotspot for hikers, daytrippers and even those looking for a night away. Here is our ultimate guide to the Venice of Hong Kong.
What to do Tackle Tiger Mountain If you need to stretch your legs after the long journey, Fu Shan is the perfect hike to get your
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tai o
heart rate up. Translating to Tiger Mountain in Chinese, Fu Shan is not as intimidating as it sounds. The 15-minute walk will take you from the village up to the Kau San Tei Lookout Pavilion, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning ocean views and a glimpse of the Hong KongZhuhai-Macau bridge.
Temple hopping Home to a variety of temples and shrines, Tai O is every historian’s dream. Be sure to stop by Kwan Tai Temple, the oldest temple in the village and a Grade II historical Hong Kong building. Built in the Ming Dynasty, the temple is dedicated to Kwan Tai, a military general of the Three Kingdoms era.
Stroll around the lanes Tai O Market Street is home to many local delicacies including dried seafood, shrimp paste and pearl jewellery. Head over to Kat Hing Street where you’ll find the best sugar donuts in Hong Kong at Tai O Bakery. But be prepared to queue.
Take a boat tour As Tai O is located away from the city, it is home to one of Hong Kong’s favourite mammals, the Chinese pink dolphin. Hop
onboard a boat tour and witness some of Tai O’s unique landmarks including General’s Rock and the Tai O Heritage Hotel and if you’re lucky enough, you may even spot a few dolphins.
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outdoors
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tai o
Tai O Heritage Hotel
Where to eat Tai O Crossing Boat Restaurant For a taste of Tai O’s specialty cuisine, head over to Tai O Crossing Boat Restaurant for fresh seafood and classic Cantonese-style stir-fry featuring Tai O’s most renowned produce, shrimp paste, dried seafood and pork.
Solo cafe Located in a traditional stilt house, diners at Solo can enjoy the true Tai O experience. The artisanal coffee shop serves up a variety of hot and cold drinks along with a selection of homemade desserts, perfect for an afternoon pick me up. With an outdoor terrace, diners can also soak up the quaint atmosphere below.
Tai O Banyan Tree café Exclusively open on weekends, Tai O Banyan Tree
offers a relaxing rest stop for visitors during a busy day of exploring. Featured on the Netflix series, Restaurants on the Edge, this cafe is located along with water’s edge and offers simple comfort food including noodles, cakes and salads.
Where to stay Tai O Heritage Hotel Rumour has it the Tai O Heritage Hotel was fully booked throughout 2020 so be sure to book your 2021 staycation early. Since it’s revitalisation in 2012, the elegant hotel has attracted people from near and far with it’s unique colonial-style interiors and history. Formerly the Tai O Police Station, the building is isolated from the rest of the village and has restored much of its original structure, offering free guided tours of the premises daily. taioheritagehotel.com
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must haves Men's trainer earth red $750 from Lane-Eight laneeight.hk Macrame Bra $450 from Sparks Asia sparks-asia.com
Studio-to-street highrise $450 from Sparks Asia sparks-asia.com
A walk wild
Xxxxxxxxx Explore the great outd Impala rollerskates $891 from Smallable smallable.com
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out and about
T5 True wireless earphones $1999 from Klipsch klipschaudio.hk
WIP old stamp deck $600 from 8FIVE2 8five2.com
k on the d side
Chinoiserie Jade yoga mat $580 from The White Labelling thewhitelabelling.com
doors in style. By Nicole Slater TILT 120 folding bike $1299 from Decathlon decathlon.com.hk
Camping tent Arpenaz $399 from Decathlon decathlon.com.hk
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pets
Ask a vet Dr Pauline Taylor on helping pets adjust to a new home Dr Pauline Pets Central veterinarian What tips do you have for moving house with pets? Moving home is as stressful for pets as it is for you. I suggest well in advance of the moving day, pets are introduced to their travel bags or crates and whenever possible it’s best to transport them yourself, if it’s a local move. Before movers come, be sure to secure your pets to one area of the house or take them to a neighbours. Once you arrive at the new house, it is equally important to keep pets curtailed to one area or room. Make this area as comfortable as possible with feeding dishes, toys, bed and litter box. Depending on your pet’s behavior, you can let them explore a little more of the new home.
probably jump in and snuggle up. You may find they sleep even more due to new and exciting smells and experiences.
We are planning to move into a smaller house with two dogs, will they be okay? When you move I suggest you try and keep to your normal routine, they do best with a set day. If they normally get a one hour walk at 8am and 4pm try and give them that on the moving day, and thereafter. If you watch your dog when it’s sleeping, they actually don’t need much space. If they have a bed or basket, the dogs will
My cat has been hiding in our new place for a few days, is this normal? This is very normal behavior for cats after a move. Your cat is exhibiting signs of anxiety and is afraid and you’ve probably been busy with less time to comfort her. If the behavior continues or if your cat isn’t eating or drinking, beware. During stressful times cats can create medical emergencies for themselves, including difficulty or the inability to urinate or even heart attacks. Please make time for your cat and create a safe spot for her to feel secure and find her daily needs nearby. Be patient but monitor her carefully. If you are soon to move your cat, make sure you tell her in advance what is going to happen, talk to her.
Do cats run back to the old house when they move? I’ve talked to clients who have told me about some miraculous journeys cats have made involving many kilometers and even over highways. Cats travelling like this have mystified scientists for a long time. Theories put forward liken these journeys by cats to ancient human travelers using the stars as a compass or being influenced by the Earth’s magnetic forces. At this time to my knowledge we really don’t understand how a cat can travel great distances by itself.
Got a question for Dr. Pauline? Email editorial@hongkongliving.com 32 | SOUTHSIDE
horoscope
Written in the stars Professional astrologist and founder of the Healing Kingdom, his insights on what the next year will bring thehealingkingdom.com
AQUARIUS
PISCES
Stay creative and youthful enough to discover the good in all situations this year. Your capabilities and talents will begin to receive praise now like never before. Banking upon your intuition would help you identify phenomenal opportunities that will accelerate your growth and development.
Your understanding of numerous subjects, belief structures and thirst for adventure Will continue to prosper this year. By maintaining calmness and peace, you will be able to adopt a spiritual healing practice and receive life-changing opportunities from multiple directions to make money and significant hops in life.
TAURUS
GEMINI
CANCER
You will receive a boost in determination and the enthusiasm this year, to shine bright amid the existing competition. But prepare yourself for the different challenges coming your way. By bringing more sincerity and honesty to your responsibilities and job, you will reap better outcomes.
This year is all about maintaining your confidence level in order to receive fresh and golden opportunities. Getting a plentitude of accomplishment will motivate you to increase your efforts. Faith in your own abilities will set you on a favourable path of vigor, euphoria and excitement.
LEO
VIRGO
LIBRA
Stride out of your comfort zone Leo’s, it’s time to accelerate your efforts in different areas this year. Life will thrust you onto a unique plan and will enhance your potential to bounce back from problems this year. By reevaluating yourself, you will strive to attain the state of perfection in every realm of life.
You will be walking ahead with a can-do attitude and constructive frame of intellect this 2021. By opting for the path that will bring significant possibilities for you, you will be swift on your feet and opportunities will come knocking at your door.
You will be getting a boost of forward-moving fuel that will make you chase after your dreams and accomplish them with determination and utmost dedication. Game-changing moments will help positively transform your life and your hard work will be rewarded with an abundance of fruitful outcomes.
SCORPIO You are straightforward and dedicated to attain what you want in life. The wheel of fortune will favour you this year for your never-ending determination. By conducting your energy into efficient channels, your spirit and passion might unnerve people working in your environment and elevate your sense of serenity.
SAGITTARIUS Discovering new resources and plans as per the requirements of today’s testing time will work in favour for you this year. Positive energy will keep flowing and recharge your mind and soul. Progress in all domains of life will push you beyond your limits.
ARIES You will be feeling empowered and on top of your life this year Aries. By Enriching your knowledge and exploring various realms, you will be able to claspe precious opportunities in one shot. Redefining the idea of perfection will help you acknowledge your efforts and perform the impossible.
Prepare for your whole perspective to be transformed this year as you submerge yourself in a varied culture. You will rocket to a respectable position on the work front and see your self-worth expand. By solving the issues at hand you will pace yourself and prepare for all challenges.
CAPRICORN As your steered by determination and confidence to succeed, there’s nothing that can slow your ambitious ride. This year you will be passing through the stages of transformational processes until you find the right track. Your efforts will bring lots of rewards and accomplishments.
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marketplace
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To the rescue
southside secrets
Nicole Slater dives into the history of the Hong Kong Life Saving Society
Hidden at the far end of Repulse Bay beach is a beautiful building flanked on either side by two tall statues. It would be easy to mistake this location for a temple, but it is in fact the training headquarters for the Hong Kong Life Saving Society (HKLSS). Formerly known as the Hong Kong Life Guard Club, the HKLSS was formed in 1956 after Lord Mountbarren, Grand President of the Royal Lifesaving Society, expressed to the Governor of Hong Kong his wish to establish a life saving organisation. It was established in 1960, with Lord Mountbarren as president. Today, HKLSS is the only organisation in Hong Kong that conducts lifesaving examinations. Its main aims are to provide voluntary lifeguarding services to support the government lifeguards at public pools and beaches and to promote water safety.
The society’s training headquarters began life as a small room above a convenience store, which is still open for business today. Back then, around 200 youths were brought to the beach on a weekly basis to be supervised and taught by members of the society. Concerned by the riots in the 1960’s, the government wanted to promote more youth recreation to prevent delinquency. Eventually in 1972 the training headquarters were extended, with the support of the government. Upon visiting the premises you’ll find, colourful statues dotted around the outside of HKLSS’s training headquarters. “Some of the statues are from China. There were riots there so antiques and statues were being damaged. They were brought to Hong Kong in order to save and preserve them,” says
Anthony Chan, chairman of HKLSS. “The two large statues at the front are Tin Hau, the Goddess of the Sea and Kwun Yum, Goddess of Mercy. People pray here before setting out to sea,” says Chan. “Chinese people are very superstitious. In the past many people refused to save people who were drowning. They believed that if you did, the ghosts from the sea would claim your life as a substitute. But with Kwun Yum and Tin Hau looking over you, it’ll bring good luck.” Chan joined in 1958 and has been at HKLSS ever since. “I believe the work we do is very meaninging because we help a lot of people.” Over the last 60 years the HKLSS has saved over 32,000 lives and hopes to save many more. hklss.org.hk
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zim city
Pushing the restart button Paul Zimmerman on the Invigorate Island South initiative
In the 2020 Policy Address, the Government announced it will implement the “Invigorating Island South” initiative to develop the Southern District into a place “full of vibrancy, vigour and velocity” for people “to work, live, explore new ideas and have fun.” While the majority of the proposals focus around Aberdeen Harbour, they also include converting the ex-Shek O quarry into a water sports centre for Tai Tam Bay. The threat of COVID-19 has taken a heavy toll on economic activities and jobs in Hong Kong. The challenges faced by Ocean Park, Jumbo Restaurant, and the risk of idling investments in the Fullerton Hotel and Water World facilities are high. Local residents are impacted directly. Close to 50 percent of the jobs in the Southern District are taken up by local residents. The majority of jobs are in the area around Aberdeen Harbour. Some 20 percent of the local working population is employed in the district. The opportunities are equally significant. The area will be served by six MTR stations in the future (Aberdeen and Tin Wan will be added to Ocean Park, Wong Chuk Hang, Ap
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Lei Chau and South Horizon). By expanding the Aberdeen Harbour with new breakwaters we can sharply increase the number of marine related jobs. New sea routes can help better link up the southside waterfront and island destinations. The old industrial properties of Tin Wan and Wong Chuk Hang can be redeveloped. The top side of the Wong Chuk Hang station will increase the population. The fish market is an obvious target for revitalisation. Modernisation of the ship yards is key. Pedestrianisation would boost the attraction of Aberdeen and Ap Lei Chau town centres. These actions are not new for the District Council, for years we have pushed these and other projects to boost the economy and the attraction of the Southside for residents and visitors. Implementation is key. The Planning Department’s Focus Study on Aberdeen Harbour in 2001 and the 2006 Tourism Commission Fishermen’s Wharf studies led to little to nothing. Since 2015 we proposed to set up District Development Offices based on the success of the Energizing Kowloon East office. The promise in the Policy Address that the Southside will get its own development
office under the Development Bureau to coordinate and implement the projects is the single most important step to realising “Invigorate Island South” initiatives.
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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