Southside Magazine September 2012

September 2012

Take the plunge Underwater Po Toi

Mid-Autumn Festival in Repulse Bay

Customise your Ferrari

New pub for Cyberport

Tea on the Verandah And other afternoon hotspots

188 things to do

+ The ultimate guide to local shops and businesses

The really useful magazine SEPTEMBER 2012

THE PLANNER 4 Happening in September LETTERS

MOTORING 30 Show pony Kevin Yeung test-drives Ferrari’s bespoke service.

8 Have your say NEWS

PROPERTY

10 What’s going on?

Dublin Jack comes to Cyberport, Anastassia’s Art House opens in Stanley and more.

INTERVIEW

32 High life Size does matter.

INTERIORS

14 Stacey Niermann Meet the “momager” of Asian girl band Blush.

FEATURE

36 Chapin House In with the old. And new collections from Attic Lifestyle and TREE. EDUCATION

16 Take the plunge Southside diving 101.

EATING

40 Inside KinderU Plus understanding debentures.

FAMILY

24 Tea time Plus mooncakes and rose wines.

42 Light up How to do Mid-Autumn Festival.

HEALTH & BEAUTY 44 Post-summer pampering Maintaining an afterglow.

And The Instructor’s tips on staying lean.

OUTDOORS 46 Pushing boundaries Outward Bound debuts the multirace for adventure novices.

TRAVEL 48 Hello Hanoi Things are different up north.

PETS 50 Scaredy cats and dogs Keeping pets calm during storms.

GARDENING 52 Damage control Jane Ram recovers from Typhoon Vicente.

MARKETPLACE 54 Your guide to shops and services Cool stuff to buy and do.

BIRD AT MY WINDOW 57 Masked Laughingthrush David Diskin on Hong Kong birds.

CLASSIFIEDS 58 Local property, holiday lets And loads of other random stuff.

ULTIMATE GUIDE 62 All you need to know Contacts to make life easier.

MY SOUTHSIDE 66 Bottoms up Shooting the breeze with Gabriella Zavatti.

"When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change" — Anais Nin

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planner

happening in september

SEP 30

Mid Autumn Festival The prettiest night of the year. Light a lantern and watch the moonrise from a mountain or beach near you. Official celebrations at Tsing Yi Park and Victoria Park, Causeway Bay.

Sep 8 Hong Kong's Best Dance Crew 2012 Watch the street crews in action at Hong Kong’s biggest open dance competition. 7.30pm, Southorn Stadium, Wan Chai.

Tickets $100-$200 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Sep 1 Charity dinner at the Pickled Pelican Eat out in a good cause. 90 Stanley Main Street, Stanley, 2813 4313, pickledpelicanstanley@cafedecogroup.com.

Sep 1 I-1 World Muaythai Grand Extreme 2012 Asia’s toughest duke it out. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $200-$1,000 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Sep 6-Oct 6 Hong Kong Comedy Festival One of the largest comedy festivals in Asia. For schedules and tickets, visit www.hkcomedyfestival.com.

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Sep 7-9 Strip Teaser City Contemporary Dance Company perform a dazzling mixture of dance, fashion and burlesque.

Studio Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. Tickets $180$500 from Urbtix, www.urbtix.hk.

Sep 9 Cantate Domino Works by Bach, Hassler and Verdi performed by Hong Kong Voices. Recital Hall, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $90-$120 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Sep 14-16 Hong Kong International Amateur Ice Hockey Tournament 2012 A must-see for ice-hockey enthusiasts, with teams from Canada and around Asia. Free. Mega Ice, MegaBox, Kowloon Bay. Details at www.hkahc.com.

Sep 12-16 Louis Pearl The Amazing Bubble Man Wowing audiences for nearly 30 years.

Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai.

Tickets $395-$550 from www.hkticketing. com, 3128 8288.

september Sep 18-30 Potted Potter

Sep 25-29 My Big Gay Italian Wedding

The Unauthorised Harry Experience. All seven Harry Potter books and a quidditch game in 70 minutes. Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai.

Tickets $395-$550 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Wendy Herbert directs the hit Broadway comedy.

The Underground Theatre, Fringe Club, Central.

Tickets $200-$250 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Sep 26-27 Sandy Bay Charity Bazaar Shop for Halloween goodies, clothing, homeware, toys and more in aid of the Society for Relief of Disabled Children. 10am-4pm, Duchess of Kent Children’s Hospital, Sandy Bay, Pok Fu Lam.

Ends Sep 24 A Look Through Bangkok

Sep 20-22 Whose Line is it Anyway?

An exhibition by photographer Kingsley Ng at Le Meridien Cyberport, 100 Cyberport Road, Pok Fu Lam, 2980 7788.

The four British funny men are back at Punchline Comedy with three nights of stand-up improv.

Tamarind, 2/F Sun Hung Kai Centre, Wan Chai.

Tickets $290 from www. cityline.com, 2111 5333, or Tamarind on 2598 1222.

Sep 25 Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds

Sep 21 Maroon 5 Live In Hong Kong Adam Levine takes the stage. AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau.

Tickets $888 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8888.

Sep 22-23 Cyberport Weekend Market It’s back, with more than 40 stall, kids’ activities and food. 11am to 7pm, The Podium, 4/F, Cyberport 2, 100 Cyberport Road, Pok Fu Lam.

Songs from Gallagher’s latest album, plus arena numbers from his Oasis days. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $888 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Sep 28 Quiz night Bird brains unite at the Pickled Pelican, 8pm-10pm. 90 Stanley Main Street, Stanley, 2813 4313.

Sep 29-Oct 1 Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance Noisy, smoky, awesome. A 67-metre jossstick dragon dances through Tai Hang to Victoria Park. 7:30pm-10pm, Causeway Bay.

Sep 21-Oct 31 Hauntingly Hip Halloween Ocean Park’s annual fright fest takes to the catwalk with fashion ghouls, eight haunted houses, 14 street shows, a kids’ activity centre and creepy-chic night events.

Ocean Park, Aberdeen, www.oceanpark.com.hk.

Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editor@southside.hk

Book now

Oct 4-6 Faust Production Auditions Children aged 8-18 are invited to audition for roles in Faust’s upcoming productions The Snow Queen and Kensuke’s Kingdom. For details, call 2547 9114, email info@FaustWorld.com or visit www.FaustWorld.com.

Oct 9-16 The Mousetrap Now in its 60th year, Agatha Christie’s murder mystery is the world’s longest-running play.

But whodunnit? Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $330-$850 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

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Oct 12-14 The Snail and the Whale

Nov 1-4 The Bootleg Beatles

Children’s show based on the Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffer book. Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $195-$395 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

The next best thing to the Fab Four, still touring after 33 years.

Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $350-$850 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Oct 17-21 Waiting for Godot Direct from Dublin. Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $220-$495 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Dec 4 Elton John It’s been a long, long time. Sir Elton celebrates 40 years of the Rocket Man. HKCEC, Wan Chai. Tickets $488-$1,888 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

letters

have your say

The right license

Merc-y Merc-y me I’m writing to highlight the Motoring section by Kevin Yeung (Southside, August 2012). We are neighbours, but I was not aware of his writing ability. Not only did I enjoy the read – being a car enthusiast – but I own a Mercedes R500. After reading the article, I am considering switching to the ML for my family as I had no idea the price was $599,000.

Hope you keep a similar type of content coming in future issues.

Adrian Valenzuela Chung Hom Kok

My family enjoys your magazine.

However, I would like to report an error in the "How to buy a speedboat" article (Southside, July 2012) in respect to the licensing required to operate a "Class IV" pleasure vessel in Hong Kong.

It repeats a common error by reflecting the licensing rules as they were before 2009.

The correct information is found on the Marine Department website at www.mardep.gov.hk/en/ pub_services/pdf/examrules_ploc. pdf. There are no longer "master" and "engineer" certificates for

the pleasure vessel certificates of competency, but there are two parts to the exam – Part A on Navigation, Seamanship and Safety and Part B on Engineering Knowledge. In addition, there is only Grade II for pleasure vessels up to 15m, and Grade I for any pleasure vessels of any length.

Engine type and size is irrelevant for "pleasure vessels".

Given the speedboat tragedy in Sai Kung, it is important we set the record straight and encourage safe boating in our waters.

Andrew Russell South Bay

Behind the wheels I read with interest the ML350 test drive (Southside, August 2012). It is good to have such reports and should become a regular feature.

Owning automobiles, while not a necessity in Hong Kong, has certainly become part of the lifestyle here, and as such, consumers should be able to know about their performance and values, not only through the advertisements. Nice job.

C.H. Lam

Clarification Kennedy School is an ESF primary school for years 1-6, and not a secondary school as we stated in Southside, August 2012. For details, please visit the website at www.kennedy.edu.hk.

Please email your letters to letters@southside.hk. We may edit for length.

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news Trick or chic Ocean Park kicks off its Hauntingly Hip Halloween Bash on September 21 with a giant fashion runway and “ghosts” parading scary-chic designs by designer Wyman Wong.

Now in its 12th year, this year’s bash has eight haunted houses — including one with 5-D technology — 14 street shows and 500 ghouls wandering the park.

“Ocean Park is the Halloween capital, much like Milan and Paris are fashion capitals,” Wong says. “I am honoured to be the first local fashionista to collaborate with the park.”

New this year are Halloween Bash Lite night tickets, which are 35 per cent cheaper than the standard night ticket, and aimed at guests who want to soak up the atmosphere without entering the haunted houses.

In brief

For details, visit www.oceanpark.com.hk.

Bazaar dates

Dublin Jack opens in Pok Fu Lam Irish pub the Dublin Jack is to open in Cyberport Arcade in November. The Arcade has been much maligned by locals for struggling to attract tenants that meet the demands of the local community.

Last year, Southside asked residents what they would like to see in the Arcade — restaurants, bars and speciality food stores were at the top of most people’s wish lists.

“A decent pub would be good,” said one Bel-Air resident.

“Somewhere you can watch football with a cold beer and a pizza.”

His wish seems to be about to come true, with the threestorey Irish pub promising a full bar, bistro and function room. A Delaney’s branch will open on the

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ground floor, with TV screens that will show live sporting events.

“We want this to be Pok Fu Lam’s ‘local’,” says Dublin Jack managing director, Noel Smyth.

“There will be a wide selection of beers and drinks available as well as a pub menu.”

In terms of dedicated eating spaces, the first-floor Bistro D-Too will be an open-plan venue serving family-friendly meals.

“Pizza will be one of our specialities, combined with a delivery service to the local area,” Smyth says. “There will also be salads, pastas and homemade breads on offer, as well as a kids’ menu. We’re offering a set-lunch option on weekdays from noon2.30pm and brunch on weekends.

We’ll also have access to a large, decked outside seating area

and will have a menu of dog treats too.”

The venue will open daily at 10am — “We intend to add a breakfast service once we’re settled in,” Smyth says — and will close at midnight on weeknights and “late” on Friday and Saturday nights.

A function room on the second floor will be available for private bookings and as an overspill for the bistro when required.

Meanwhile, rumours abound that a certain wellknown fast-food venue is also planning to open in the Arcade.

A spokesperson confirmed the Cyberport leasing team is “in discussions” with a number of food and beverage operators.

Watch this space.

Shoppinghongkong has announced its Christmas bazaar dates: Wednesday, November 7 and Monday, December 17, at the Vista Ballroom in the American Club Tai Tam. The popular events are a one-stop shopping opportunity in the lead-up to the holidays. Last year, more than 50 vendors took part.

For details and stall applications, email shoppinghongkong@gmail.com or visit www.shoppinghongkong.net.

Volunteer The Society for the Relief of Disabled Children is looking for volunteers for its Christmas Card Project, ahead of its annual fundraiser. Volunteers are need to quality-check and pack the cards at anytime, Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm. Please email pommikaur@srdc.org.hk or call Pommi on 2819 3050.

in the know

Sole mate Children’s shoe store Apple and Pie is the latest addition to One Island South in Wong Chuk Hang. The brainchild of friends and business partners Anita Klaus and Shamsa van Keulen, the store imports fashion for little feet from Europe, including more than 20 brands not available elsewhere in Hong Kong. The shoes range from pretty and preppy to edgy and cool.

“Anita and I travel to Europe to source the shoes ourselves,” says van Keulen. “We came up with the concept of Apple and Pie out of sheer frustration at not being able to find the right shoes for our kids in Hong Kong.”

The spacious new store’s nature-themed design by Italian designer Stefano Tordiglione is all about fun, with giant apple-shaped cushions, quirky shelving and a play table.

“We chose One Island South for the convenience to our customers.

It’s a brand new building with parking so parents with young children in strollers can easily access our shop,” van Keulen explains.

Unit 206, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, 3102 0853, www.appleandpie.com.

Taking The Pulse Vacant seafront building The Pulse in Repulse Bay has moved a step closer to opening.

The legal dispute between its owner Emperor Group and the government has been settled, with Emperor paying the premium required for the building to open.

Southside district councillor Fergus Fung is also working with the government to improve facilities and congestion on Beach Road. As a popular tourist destination, Repulse Bay has been grappling with tourist

coaches blocking traffic while they unload passengers and leaving engines idling.

One proposal is to turn the Beach Road car park into a coach drop-off area after The Pulse opens its underground car park.

Fung hopes this would remove the current problem of coaches stopping in the middle of the road to load and unload passengers.

Fung is interested in feedback from local residents, so please contact him with your comments at bays.area@gmail.com.

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news

Paint the town Put your smocks on, Stanley. Owing to growing client demand and a long waiting list at its Repulse Bay branch, Anastassia’s Art House is opening a new Stanley Plaza location this month.

The new venue will include a store stocked with quality art supplies and an adjoining cafe – part of an initiative to make the venue a space for music and arts events as well as an art school. The rustic-luxe space can also be booked for birthdays, graduations, school reunions...

“We are certain this one-of-akind venue will add a glamorous and artistic flair to the plaza,” says director Anastassia Katafygiotis. “The venue is specially designed for private and corporate art parties and other events.

We are cooperating with leading restaurants to create packages and our members will be able to choose anything from elegant pate and cheese platters to delicious children's menus.”

The new location is the group’s fifth and features its first “Park your Kid” programme, allowing parents to

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drop off their children for as long as they wish, leaving them to explore their inner artist in an unstructured setting under full supervision. There’s even a brunch option.

Also new are ceramic and pottery classes for children and adults in art rooms equipped with a kiln and pottery wheels by German brand Rohde. Classes are run by practising artists with degrees from renowned Russian art academies.

“We offer the perfect balance between introducing the structured elements and techniques a student needs to reach a high level of technical competency, while encouraging creativity, imagination and individuality,” explains Katafygiotis.

“Our curriculum and teaching approach are, well designed and proven to yield miracle results. We are committed to setting standards in the ‘art of teaching art’.”

The branch officially opens on September 22, and all are welcome to join free workshops, exhibitions and refreshments. For details, email stanleyplaza@arthouse-hk.com.

Five minutes with...

Mark Saunderson Works by emerging artists at accessible prices set the Asia Contemporary Art Show apart, explains its director.

Why did you decide to bring the Asia Contemporary Art Show to Hong Kong?

That’s simple. Hong Kong is the crossroads for art in Asia – now the second-largest art market in the world, by most accounts. ArtHK has done a nice job engaging the few serious buyers and collectors, but for most people the works are simply beyond reach. The Asia Contemporary Art Show appeals to a broader community by presenting young, emerging and mid-career talent at accessible prices. Our wish is to increase the choice of great art in this segment for buyers.

When did Hong Kong become a major player on the world art stage?

It’s difficult to say – a combination of factors triggered an ongoing conversation about art in Hong Kong, including ArtHK, the government’s initiative with the West Kowloon Cultural District, the popularity of auctions held locally and the formation of the Hong Kong Art Gallery Association.

What Hong Kong artists do you like?

I like numerous artists. Stephen Wong for his paintings of the world around him, often more realistic than the “real” one (Galerie Ora Ora). Joe Joe Ngai’s graphite works on paper (Voxfire Gallery Hong Kong) are simplistically beautiful and serene. Lewis Lau is a promising realist painter (Fabrik Contemporary Art), and his younger brother, Daniel Lau, is interesting too.

How can this show help emerging/young artists in the region?

Let me give an example: Gallery SLY Art Space – with space provided by the Taipei City government – has only young and emerging artists as members.

Eight of them have together come up with the money to take an exhibition room at the show to gain exposure to Hong Kong buyers.

What types of artwork can we expect to see?

There is a great mixture of paintings, limited-edition prints, photography and sculpture from artists and galleries from across Asia and beyond. Most works are $20,000-$80,000.

Is contemporary artwork a popular investment?

It is starting to be seen as an alternative investment. However, we focus on buyers and curious collectors with art that appeals to individuals for its craft and beauty.

I’m sure some buyers hope the works they purchase will appreciate in value – but likely that’s not the motivation.

Tell us about the new Hong Kong Young Artist prize.

Young artists struggle to show their art to a broader audience.

This show will give them a great opportunity to get recognition among an important group of art buyers and enthusiasts. There’s goodness in encouraging young talent to strive in their passion. We hope the prize will motivate Hong Kong’s artists.

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interview Editorial Carolynne Dear Carolynne@southside.hk Jane Steer Jane@southside.hk Coco Marett Coco@southside.hk

Star quality Southside’s Stacey Niermann is “momager” to Hong Kong-based girl band Blush.

Art Director Sammy Ko design@fastmedia.com.hk Graphic Designer Mireille Paul Sales Manager Nobel Cho ads@southside.hk

Why have so few Asian artists tapped into the Western music scene?

Many people have speculated that racial stereotypes are to blame — the perception of Asians in the West is often more “studious” than “pop star”. But the US music industry is starting to open up to Asian artists and Blush is at the forefront of this movement.

The idea was to take talent from different cultures and mix that with Western production, development techniques and songwriting expertise. Currently leading this charge is K-Pop music, which is experiencing great success globally. This can help Blush break down more barriers.

Accounts Manager Clara Chan accounts@fastmedia.com.hk CEO Tom Hilditch Tom@fastmedia.com.hk Contributors Dr Carmel Taylor MVB Graham Uden Kevin Yeung Cynthia Smillie Anna Bonar Eric Kong David Diskin Jane Ram Printer Gear Printing 1/F, Express Industrial Bldg 43 Heung Yip Road Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Published by Fast Media Floor LG1 222, Queens Road Central Hong Kong Give us a call!

Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772 Southside Magazine is published by Fast Media Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Southside cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or pubishers.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

www.fastmedia.com.hk

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You graduated from UCLA, how does Hong Kong's entertainment industry compare with LA’s?

The entertainment industry in Hong Kong is focused on its domestic market, whereas in Los Angeles there’s a global outlook. Cultural differences are among the biggest considerations for us — song structure, shock boundaries, wardrobe, casual behaviour and daily routine. Audiences in Asia tend not to favour singers who are too “out there”, but audiences in the West expect this from an artist.

How did you come to be Blush’s "momager"?

My husband, Jon, and I have always had the entrepreneurial bug. We decided to jump off the corporate ship and go for it with our company, FarWest Entertainment.

Our goal is to bring the best of Asian talent to the West and we’re motivated by the prospect of Blush being the first Asian group to become successful in both the US and Europe. Blush has members from China, India, Japan, Korea and the Philippines and was formed after Project Lotus, a televised, Asia-wide talent search.

Tell us about your day-to-day.

As manager, I organise the group’s

concerts, appearances, marketing and wardrobe, and look after their general well-being. Every day is different. I’m very hands on and enjoy being involved in all aspects of the business — discussing concepts for a music video or making sure everyone’s on time to rehearsal. It’s also about providing the girls with support. As a mother or manager, there are a lot of transferable skills; scheduling, organizing, thinking proactively, being tuned in on multiple levels and being able to handle sleep deprivation. My abilities as a mom, understanding what these girls are going through, is very important. This is how I got my title, “momager”.

What was Blush's big break?

Collaborating with Snoop Dogg on their first single, opening for Justin Bieber in Hong Kong and performing on So You Think You Can Dance on US TV. Actually, I don’t think the big break has happened yet. Blush has had tremendous opportunities but now — with more fans and a great deal more experience — is their moment.

What are the pros and cons of the job?

As a fast-rising group, Blush spends a lot of time travelling. I love visiting new places and enjoy the challenges and variety of touring. However, as the mother of three children, this can be

girl power challenging. Jon and I ensure at least one of us is with the kids.

My favourite thing is hearing Blush sing. I also love the creative process; working on a new song, watching it come together as the producer figures out who should sing which part, and then listening to the final track — this is pure magic.

Music is a cutthroat business.

I’ve experienced setbacks as a woman in a very male-dominated industry. Working in an expensive industry with a lean budget takes a lot of planning. And there are obstacles to overcome when you’re trying to create something new and different.

How did Blush go from five regular girls to sharing the studio with Snoop Dogg?

We’re very fortunate to have a friend in the US music industry, Steve Schnur, who knew of Snoop’s interest in Asia and his willingness to help young artists.

Since then, Blush has had two Top 3 Billboard Dance/Club Play chart tracks — “Undivided”, featuring Snoop, and “Dance On”, which was a number one. Blush are the only Asian artists to have had their first two singles in the Top 10 of a major US chart. We’ve performed alongside some of music’s biggest acts including the Black Eyed Peas, Jessie J and B.o.B. What’s next for you and the girls?

We’re working the US radio scene for our song, “All Stars”, which

means travelling between cities.

We’re also working towards more live performances in Asia.

Why did you choose to live in Southside?

We chose Southside because it offers more space for our family, and is more relaxed. Our children’s school is nearby and we can walk to restaurants, shops and the beach.

It provides the benefits of suburban living, with all the excitement of the city just a short ride away. It’s the best of all worlds.

Any favourite restaurants?

The American Club is our staple.

Our children love pasta and pizza so we spend a fair amount of time at both Pizza Express and Wildfire.

But the best food is Lucy’s.

What do you like to do in your down-time?

My idea of the perfect day would be a family hike in the Hong Kong hills, ending with dinner and wine in Shek O — all the better if other families are with us.

How would you like to see Southside develop?

I hope there isn’t a great deal of change around the beaches and Stanley. I would welcome more cafes or restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Hong Kong is developing at such a pace, I think there is value in not over-commercializing quieter spots.

Stacey Niermann with the girls from Blush.

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feature

Deep south There’s so much to see at sea. South China Dive Club chairman Rob Christie gives us the scoop on scuba.

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feature

Where do you dive in Southside?

We take a boat out of Aberdeen and head out to either Breaker Reef, which is a popular site just out of Tai Tam Bay, or Beaufort Island and Po Toi – all about 45 minutes from Aberdeen. We drop anchor at the chosen location, about 20 metres off the coast. Based on sonar readings and charts we'll choose a site with good depth, depending on what type of diving we’re looking for. Some of Hong Kong’s deepest diving spots are in Southside, which is great for training and practising specific types of deepsea diving.

What can you see down there?

There are a lot of nice soft corals and, below 20 metres, sea-fan corals that are quite large and beautiful. At Breaker Reef, which is shallower, there’s a large variety of fish – once we spotted a rare frog fish, a strange-looking, camouflaged fish that crawls rather than swims. It’s the only place we’ve come across them. We also find quite a few nudibranchs, a sea slug an inch or two long and very colourful. Some divers search for them incessantly so they can take pictures.

What was your most memorable diving experience?

For me, it was finding the frog fish. I was taking pictures of a crab and my dive buddy nudged me to look down at my elbow, and there was a frog fish sitting next to me. It was a wonderful surprise as they're hard to find. I enjoy having the opportunity to do some deeper diving. At different depths, you find different sea life and creatures. It's more challenging to get there but it’s a lot more fun.

A-OK: Rob Christie surfaces off Southside.

Opposite, clockwise from top left: fanworm; Chinese damselfish; shrimp.

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feature

My favourite Southside watersport “I’m visiting, but I absolutely love wakeboarding. It’s such a thrill.”

Caryn, 19

“I used to love wakeboarding! It was such a rush. Been a long time since I last went though.” Lily, 37

“Ha! I’m too scared to try anything crazy.

I just love a swim.”

Sophie, 19

“I do a lot of sports, but my fave watersport has got to be paddleboarding. It’s a pretty nice workout.”

Janette, 43

“My favourite water sport? Beach drinking count?”

Christina, 32

Given Hong Kong’s water quality, is it safe to go diving?

I would never dive in the harbour. But the quality of water off the outer islands is quite good and has very little contamination. Visibility can be poor at times owing to a natural occurrence from salt and other elements but the water is quite clean outside the harbour. There's never a problem with infections. Even trash is rare. We do our best to clean up whenever we see trash on the seafloor. The good news is our marine and country parks limit the amount of building around the water’s edge. Also there's very little runoff for sewage or drainage.

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“Definitely has to be windsurfing. Nothing beats the feel of the wind on your face.”

John, 50-something

Does the SCDC offer scuba training?

Training, from beginner to advanced level, is a big part of our club. We hope to bring more people in so they can start early and learn properly. Our approach and philosophy towards training might be a bit different to a commercial companies; our main concern is that people learn to dive safely (not that commercial companies aren’t). We tend to really focus on and drill safety procedures with our members.

Ultimately this makes them better divers, knowing that if they get into a difficult situation they have the skills to manage it.

At SCDC, we're all volunteer instructors.

When people come to us for training we give our time and we're passionate about making sure they understand and learn properly. We take time to make sure they get the skills down pat. If they fail a test, we work with them to make sure they build the skills until they get it right.

What do you most love about diving?

I love the underwater environment — watching fish and taking photos of fish. It’s something I love to share with people. I've been diving long enough to know it's a very risky sport — there are always unexpected situations. But if done properly, it’s an enjoyable experience for anyone.

I love the thrill of taking a new diver down and watching them experience it for the first time. It’s been 25 years since my first dive and it’s a great feeling to watch people fall in love with this whole new world.

Have you had any close calls?

I've been caught in currents that have pulled me far from the boat, or worse, caught underwater in a current that pushed me down. You can get pushed down really quickly and literally have to crawl out of the situation to find where the current is no longer pushing down. That happened in the Philippines. A lot of people think the number one danger is sharks but that’s so far from the truth. Sharks are wonderful to watch and are very docile, they do their own thing. Seeing a shark is breathtaking and not something to be scared of.

feature

Sea urchin

Blue swimmer crab

Soft coral

Frog fish

Goby

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feature Where’s the best diving on Southside?

In terms of marine life to be worried about, watch out for spiky sea urchins and be mindful of brushing against fire coral, it can leave a nasty rash that lasts days.

A common danger is when inexperienced divers don't have enough air or go too deep by accident. It is so important to be properly trained and to have the right skills set before going for a dive.

How can people get involved with SCDC? We host social nights every Thursday, 8pm, in the Waglan Bar at Aberdeen Boat Club (20 Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen). All are welcome,

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we just ask that people email first so we can expect them.

Is underwater photography a big part of SCDC? We have a lot of people in the club doing photography and our more experienced divers take rookies down to show them photography techniques. It's part of the dynamic of the club to share that.

MORE INFO To learn more about the SCDC, visit www.scdc.org.hk or email info@scdc.org.hk.

“In Po Toi, there’s a great trail of ‘whips’ — soft corals that look just like huge whips — and you can follow it down to some beautifully coloured corals. Also there’s some interesting sea life to look at around the place. A couple of times me and some friends have taken the junk out to Po Toi, and after a dive just relaxed on the boat, had a barbecue. It’s a great place to be.

“We only dive there in the winter because the visibility is better. It’s colder, but you can see more and there’s none of that ‘colour’ coming in from the Pearl River.”

Andrew Couch, PADI instructor and co-founder of Mandarin Divers, www.mandarin-divers.com, 2554 7110.

feature

Dive log There are 16 named dive sites across the two atolls, all wall dives, starting in the shallow ledges of the atoll, and dropping into a 100m blue abyss. With visibility of 40m and more, descents and ascents are spectacular — photographers should take a wide-angle lens. However, clear waters can be deceptive with regards to depth, so dive computers are essential to ensure no-decompression dives.

As an isolated atoll, weather can be unpredictable and sometimes choppy, and currents can be strong. Seasickness tablets are a good idea to pack, along with your own surface marker buoy. Tourism to the area is controlled and strict rules of conduct can be summarised as “take only photos, leave only bubbles”.

Sapphire of the Sulu Sea Rochelle Lewis dives Tubbataha Reefs, the “Galapagos of Asia”.

Rising 750 metres from the volcanic depths off the western Philippines is Tubbataha Reefs, a Unesco World Heritage site that is fast becoming one of the most sought-after diving destinations in the world.

Accessible only by liveaboard boats and diveable from March to June, the 100,000-hectare Tubbataha Reefs National Park has been coined the “Galapagos of Asia”. Close to 500 species of fish, 350 species of coral, giant pelagics, green turtles and sharks congregate in a spectacular display. This is nature’s theatre.

Journeying to the reef at the centre of the Sulu Sea involves a 180km, 10-hour overnight boat trip from Puerto Princesa on the east coast of Palawan. Our boat, the MV Borneo Explorer operated by Expedition Fleet Liveaboards, is a 28m motor vessel with 10 fully air-conditioned cabins and private en-suites.

Arriving in the wee hours, divers awaken to turquoise waters and blue horizons. From the deck, divers peer down, grinning, into gin-clear water. As we eagerly anticipate our first dive, batfish, red-tooth triggerfish and angelfish swim colourfully beneath the hull.

Mooring in the middle of the Sulu Sea evokes feelings of total isolation and sheer relaxation. There is no mobile phone coverage,

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no shops and no people. The only noises are squeals of delight and the hum of bilge pumps.

With an option to dive up to five times a day, the agenda is not for the faint-hearted. While jokes circle the boat about the dive schedule mirroring a military training camp, everybody reports on deck bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at 0700 sharp for the first dive. This is what we’ve come for.

Tubbataha Reefs comprise the North and South atolls, separated by an 8km channel, as well as the Jessie Beazley Reef. Tender boats shuttle two groups of divers to different dive sites off the atolls, depending on the wind and weather. Personal favourites are Delsan Wreck and Black Rock, east of South Atoll, while Washing Machine and Shark Airport are aptly named for the adrenaline factor.

After gearing up and doing our final buddy checks, we enter the water with a backward roll on the count of three, slowly descending into a kaleidoscope of vibrant biodiversity, mesmerized by rays of light refracting through the water.

Fish swim unperturbed by our presence and we revel in watching our bubbles rise slowly to the surface through water so incredibly clear it feels like the world’s largest aquarium — minus the glass walls.

How to get there Philippine Airlines and others fly from Manila to Puerto Princesa in Palawan. Dive operators transport guests to the wharf, five minutes away, to board the liveaboard boats. A list of dive operators is available online at www.tubbatahareef.org.

Rochelle Lewis is a dive instructor with Splash Hong Kong in Sai Kung, which offers PADI courses from beginner to advanced levels; www.splashhk.com.

eating Afternoon delight Southside’s favourite places for a nice cup of tea and a sit down. Pinkies out.

Clockwise from left: The Four Seasons, Sift and The Cupping Room

Colonial cool Afternoon tea is a colonial habit that Hong Kong took to its heart, and nowhere more so than at The Verandah in The Repulse Bay. Built in 1986 in the style of the former Repulse Bay Hotel on the same spot, this is one of the area’s most celebrated dining spots. But what it’s really famous for is high tea.

Keep it simple with homemade scones, clotted cream and jam ($108 a person) or treat yourself to the full-on afternoon tea, with all the bells and whistles including sandwiches, perfectly delicate pastries, fancy financiers and signature Belgian waffles.

Tip: with the heat relenting, book a table on the balcony and let the ceiling fans work their magic.

Tea for two: $318, 3pm-5.30pm, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2292 2822, www.therepulsebay. com.

Chichi tea For the ultimate in opulence, take high tea at The Four Seasons. Tradition prevails in staples such as finger sandwiches and scones with

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Devonshire clotted cream and homemade jams.

Dessert takes a more European twist: bread and butter pudding, profiteroles and rich, creamy tiramisu. Gluten-free options are done right, with breads and baked goods that are springy and tasty rather than dry and bland.

High tea is served in The Lounge where floor-to-ceiling windows flood the room with natural light and let in stunning harbour views.

A must if you’ve got guests in town.

Tea for two: $380, 3pm-5.30pm daily, Lobby Level, Four Seasons Hotel, 8 Finance Street, Central, 3196 8888, www.fourseasons.com.

Java junkies The Cupping Room is the answer to coffee snobs’ prayers. Owner Derek Chiu was awarded first runner-up in last year’s Hong Kong Barista Championship and his passion for coffee shines through in every sip. He even invested in a Synesso machine, the first of its kind in Hong Kong.

It’s all about freshness and quality at The Cupping Room, where beans are sourced and roasted to order and pastries are made in store

daily. We strongly recommend the scones, served warm with jam and clotted cream. And don’t miss the in-shop Chocolate Room, which sells an assortment of bite-sized sweets from the UK, including white chocolate-covered strawberries and honeycomb-filled delights.

2/F, Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Rd, Stanley, 9316 1980.

Cake date Horizon Plaza isn’t the calmest place for tea – quite the opposite, in fact. But hear us out. For the past few years, Sift has been consistantly voted one of Hong Kong’s favourite dessert spots. We shouldn’t be surprised: its Red Velvet cupcakes literally melt in the mouth and sell by the hundreds every day. The chocolate raspberry slice has been known to reduce grown men to tears of joy and the salted caramel cupcakes (a personal favourite of Sift founder Jennifer Cheung) are genius. The decor is as sweet as the baked goods, all pale wood and fairy lights.

22/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau, 2530 4288, www.siftdesserts.com.

tea time

Sunday funday For a Sunday afternoon family tea, head to PSI Bar at Le Meridien Cyberport. Enjoy panoramic views of the South China Sea while raiding the buffet table for all things savoury and sweet. Start with pizzas and juicy mini burger sliders but save space for the speciality homemade desserts including Japanese-style charcoal mango caramel cake and a chocolate fountain to keep the kids busy.

Afternoon tea is $218 for adults, $109 for children aged three to 12. Sunday and public holidays, 3.30pm-5.30pm, Le Meridien Cyberport, 4/F, 100 Cyberport Road, Pok Fu Lam, 2980 7424.

Mooncakes Le Meridien Cyberport gives the traditional mooncake an artistic makeover, commissioning Chinese contemporary artist Yan Lei to design a limited-edition Mooncake Box. These colourful boxes feature his iconic “colour wheel” artwork, a never-ending circle that symbolises the full moon and families reuniting.

“The artwork has strong ties to Chinese values and culture,” says Yan. “A full moon signifies a moment of happiness when families reunite — especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival when the moon is largest.” To order, call 2980 7410.

The Mandarin Cake Shop has a wide selection of mooncakes and gift hampers available until October 1. Its pastry team has developed some unusual variations on the traditional mooncake fillings, including mini black date paste, pine seed paste, and mini egg custard mooncakes. And look for the new Mandarin Mooncake Gift Box, which includes a bottle of Chateau Guerry Cotes de Bourg 2006, six mini egg custard mooncakes, ginger chocolate rocks, XO sauce, pu-er tea and 16 chocolate brownies. To order, call 2825 4008 or fax 2903 1624. Delivery available.

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wine

think pink

A rosé-tinted view Many people think rosé (pink or blush wines) is a seasonal wine that should only be drunk as the mercury rises during summer.

(Although in air conditioningdependent Hong Kong it can be difficult to tell whether it is summer or winter, especially in certain bars and restaurants.) But while rosé is a fantastic summer drink, it’s also good in our warm and sunny autumns.

Rosé is a drink for the outdoors, where most of us like to be at this time of year – on boats, patios, rooftops or balconies. It beats the heat with its summery fruit style and all that’s required to keep it at optimum temperature is an outdoor fridge (like the one on your rooftop or in your garden) or an ice bucket.

Rosé is not a blend of red and white wines, although it may have been in France centuries ago.

Today it is made from the speedy pressing of red-wine grapes such as Merlot or Shiraz. As the grapes spend little time mixed with the skins, only a small proportion of colour is transmitted to the wine, hence its radiant pink colour.

Finding a rosé you like in

Wine events Sep 7-8 Zachy’s Fine Wine Auction at The Mandarin Oriental, 6pm, 2810 9909.

Sep 19 Champagne Masterclass at The ASC Wine Gallery, Stanley Street, Central, 3923 6700.

Sep 24 New Zealand’s Kim Crawford Wine Dinner at Alfies by Kee, Princes Building, Central, 2530 4422.

Sep 25 How To Taste Like A Pro Masterclass at Berry Bros. and Rudd, 2110 1680.

Hong Kong is simple as there is a wealth of labels to choose from. As a rule of thumb, Old World rosés such as those from France, Spain or Lebanon are generally drier with more mineral aspects than heavy red fruit. New World rosés, including those from Australia and California, are more fruit-forward and feminine.

But the best thing about rosé is that while it can be paired with summery foods such as salads, cold cuts and, for the more

adventurous, barbecues, it is a style designed for drinking without food as a standalone wine. The wines are never expensive, making them perfect for parties and can be consumed in rather larger quantities.

So as the humidity and temperatures start to dip, and people start to venture outdoor, it’s time for a rosé fix. Try our recommended wines of the month for three rosés that will knock your socks off.

Sep 27 – The Forgotten Vintage: Bordeaux 2004 Tasting at The ASC Wine Gallery,Stanley Street, Central, 3923 6700.

Alasdair Nicol blogs about wine in the Hong Kong market at www.winetimeshk. blogspot.com Contact him at agsnicol@gmail.com

Recommended Wines Chateau Ksara Sunset Rosé Chateau Ksara is one of Lebanon’s finest wineries and the Sunset Rosé is crisp, clean and refreshing. It is a blend of Cabernet Franc and Syrah and has notes of spice and strong aromas of red berries. A perfect drink for watching the sun go down.

Umami Little Pig Rosé Umami Little Pig Rosé is made by local Hong Kong winemaker Eddie McDougall and is from the King Valley in Australia. The wine is a beautiful pink colour and has notes of fresh red fruit and wild berries. A very approachable easy drinking, everyday wine for the home.

Scarlet Skirts Liquid Pink Rosé Self described as a “little glass of luxury for those special occasions”, Scarlet Skirts Liquid Pink Rosé is fresh and fun. There are notes of strawberry and summer fruit and this wine will suit most kinds of food or is great just on its own.

Available from Red Mill Hong Kong (2805 8100), $210

Available from The Flying Winemaker Store in Lan Kwai Fong and from Wine N Things (2873 5733), $220

Available from Garage Wine (info@ garagewine.hk), $130

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Bites SpiceBox Organics is going online.

Owner Punam Chopra tells us why.

What is SpiceBox Organics?

SpiceBox Organics is a food store selling private label and brand-name organic products including whole grains, seeds, legumes, spices, nuts, oils, herbal supplements, teas and more.

We have a shop in Sai Ying Pun, and an online store that will go live this month. We strive to source from the best organic producers.

Why spices?

Our spices are high in quality and free from contamination, with tremendous healing properties in addition to taste and flavour. We provide information on their health benefits.

Tell us more about your products.

We have what an organic home kitchen needs: raw foods and unprocessed certified organic foods that are preservative and chemical free. Products include cereals, grains, nutrition bars, health drinks snacks and more. We will also offer non-food items such as organic soaps, shampoos and baby products.

When do you open?

SpiceBox Organics is in it’s soft launch phase, with a grand opening party on Saturday, September 15. Everyone is invited to come

along and we’ll be offering discounts on many products.

How do you see the business developing?

We want to be a trusted adviser and source for healthy, environmentally conscious, organic products for our clients in Hong Kong and beyond. We hope our sourcing process and fair-trade practices can help small farmers around the world sustain themselves while treading gently on the environment.

72 Third Street, Sai Ying Pun, 2568 2728, www.spiceboxorganics.com

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recipe

Steamed fresh New Zealand snapper

By South Stream Seafoods

Directions 1 In a small bowl, combine the

2

3

Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes 4

Ingredients (serves 4) 1 New Zealand snapper, 900g-1kg (available from South Stream Seafoods) 4 green shallots, thinly sliced diagonally 4cm piece fresh ginger, peeled, cut into matchsticks 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced 1 long fresh red chilli, halved, deseeded, thinly sliced 1½ tbs soy sauce 1 tbs rice vinegar 1 tsp sesame oil ¼ tsp brown sugar 1 tbs peanut oil Steamed rice

5

green shallot, ginger, garlic and chilli. In a separate bowl combine the soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil and sugar.

Wash fish under cold running water. South Stream recommends a whole fresh fish as the head, skin and bones give it that extra flavour. Pat dry with paper towel inside and out.

Use a sharp knife to cut three slashes, about 8cm-10cm long and 1cm deep, in the thickest part of the fish on both sides.

Sprinkle a large heatproof plate with a third of the shallot mixture. Place the fish on top.

Spread half the remaining shallot mixture in the fish cavity.

Sprinkle fish with the remaining shallot mixture and drizzle with soy-sauce mixture. Place plate in a large bamboo steamer.

To a wok, add water to a depth of 5cm and bring to the boil.

Reduce to a simmer and place the bamboo steamer over the wok. Steam, covered, for 1215 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork in thickest part.

In a small saucepan, heat peanut oil over high heat until just smoking. Drizzle the fish with hot oil. Carefully remove the plate from the bamboo steamer. Serve with steamed rice, if desired.

Fresh food delivered to your door South Stream’s seafood legacy lives on in its name but there is so much more on offer than fabulous fresh fish.

Natural and organic beef, lamb, pork and poultry, free range eggs, gluten free bread, fresh

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organic vegetables, meat pies, sausages and baby food. It takes minutes to order. It gets delivered to your door and you save a pile of money…..Oh, and it’s delicious.

Order online at: www.south-stream-seafoods.com

The story of South Stream Seafoods

Bradley White

South Stream is Hong Kong’s best established and most trusted home delivery company.

“We pride ourselves on sourcing wholesome healthy food from sustainable resources and the cleanest environments” says cofounder Bradley White. “For over twenty years we served Hong Kong’s best hotels and restaurants. Now the same great food comes to your door.”

With every meal you put on your family’s table comes ‘peace of mind’. Natural, organic and wild catch aren’t just buzz words. They’re dinner!

Browse the shop at www.south-stream-seafoods.com

motoring One of one In a new column, petrol head Kevin Yeung road tests Ferrari’s new bespoke service. Pictures by Graham Uden.

Gloriously overlooking Repulse Bay Beach in a stunning colonial-style flagship store, Italian Motors is the only car dealership on Southside and The Peak. It shares its premises with Ferrari and Maserati. I caught up with deputy managing director John Newman and Ferrari’s head of sales Wilco Ng to explore the bespoke possibilities when ordering a new Ferrari. But first, let's revisit how the marque’s magic started.

Maranello, Italy, 1947: Ferrari's first Grand Tourers (GT) or “road cars" were all bespoke, with Il Commendatore Enzo Ferrari personally liaising with all “his” customers. Starting with a Ferrari engine bolted to a rolling chassis, customers were encouraged to participate on every design detail to create exactly what they wanted.

This was coach building in the traditional sense, Newman says.

“Back then, Ferraris were handbuilt, tailor made specifically for one owner – each crafted individually without compromise." Ferrari's distinctive design heritage was conceived.

Hong Kong, 1997: My personal beloved Ferrari F355 Spider was born. While my Spider's dark blueon-tan colour combination looks spectacular to me, by the 1990s the level of customization available was largely confined to choices for colour and upholstery. Ferrari introduced standardized body designs in the late 1960s, and by the 1980s, increasingly strict emissions and safety standards made creating bespoke vehicles almost impossible.

Repulse Bay, 2012: Ferrari's proud bespoke tradition is revived with the launch of Ferrari Tailor Made and Special Projects.

Powered by Ferrari's design and engineering teams and supported by talented craftsmen and artisans, these new services allow customers to celebrate their individuality.

Clockwise from left: Wilco Ng puts Kevin Yeung behind the wheel; examining the Ferrari’s inner framework; the Southside dealership.

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va-va-vroom

Newman and Ng take time to understand each customer's taste and lifestyle before they start, carefully selecting each detail of the new Ferrari from the Tailor Made programme’s three collections: Scuderia, Classica and Inedita.

With an unprecedented selection of paint, materials and treatments

to choose from, every decision is deliberate and precise.

“Ferrari's time-honoured tradition of combining quality with integrity is what makes our cars so special,” Newman says.

“Today, we marry cutting-edge Formula 1-derived technology with beautiful and purposeful design.

Our cars are built with extraordinary materials – including carbon fibre, leather, aluminium and even denim and cashmere – using the most advanced construction techniques.”

Special Projects takes things to another level, evoking Ferrari’s golden years. Just as in the 1940s, the process starts with a Ferrari

engine and chassis, then Special Projects customers are invited to the factory in Maranello to work intimately with Ferrari's team to design and craft a truly bespoke one-off car, experimenting with designs, materials and techniques.

British guitar icon Eric Clapton, a lifelong Ferrari tifosi, recently collected his first bespoke Ferrari (SP12 EC; Special Projects 12th car Eric Clapton), which was based on a F458's engine and chassis.

Ferrari's generous spirit of client collaboration is the antithesis of the tedious so-called limited editions that have plagued the auto industry. And the marque's refreshing faith in its customers has been rewarded by creating of some of the world's most distinctive and desirable cars, including one that Newman and Ng helped create for a friend of mine. It’s a special car: the last manual Ferrari.

Kevin Yeung is the director and fundraising chair of the World Food Programme Hong Kong, a Council Member of Unicef — and a motoring enthusiast.

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 31

property

Home to roost Perched high above the sea, Eagle Ridge is a giant among equals.

Eagle Ridge is a breath of fresh air. And not just because it luxuriates in unobstructed sea views from its hilltop eyrie. At 4,500 sqft, this is a house with space to spare. It positively wallows in square footage.

It has so much space to play with that it only appears to be open plan. True, the dining area links to the living area to create a “great room” effect. Its floor-to-ceiling

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windows and glass balcony make the most of that sparkling view, bombarding the space with light. The colour scheme is warm but neutral, based on variations of brown from pale beige to deep mahogany, using tone and texture to create tranquillity in some areas and drama in others. To give you a sense of scale, that circular dining table comfortably seats 12.

This is a space for relaxing, entertaining and enjoying some quality time with the family. But to do that, you may first have to drag the kids kicking and screaming out of the family room, a long space lined with sofas against one wall and kitted out with all the latest hi-tech entertainment systems.

Or perhaps you’ll have to prise dad from his computer in the large separate study.

take wing

Clockwise from opposite page: the living room; a table for 12; master bathroom; and the kitchen.

Mandarin Immersion Programme

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property

Conveniently located off the dining area, the kitchen is another airy space fully equipped with all the hobs, stoves and gadgets required for everything from a simple sandwich to a full-fledged feast. Casual breakfasts and late-night snack attacks take place at the breakfast bar, where families can cosy up to chat over cornflakes or congee.

Upstairs are three en-suite bedrooms (there’s a guest half bathroom elsewhere).

The master suite has a de rigueur walk-in closet and a separate dressing area, as well as a large bathroom in pristine, shiny white with dark-wood decking and a bath big

A bird’s-eye view from the balcony.

Recent property transactions Property

Sqft

Price

$/sqft

Shouson Peak

4,100

$192.8m

$47,024

South Bay Towers

2,738

$52m

$18,992

The Brentwood

1,556

$31.5m

$20,244

Redhill Peninsula

2,588

$69.48

$26,808

Pacific View

2,054

$33.8

$16,456

Belgravia

2,390

$81m

$33,891

Marinella

1,603

$30.93m

$19,295

Larvotto

2,363

$39.98m

$16,919

Bel-Air

2,180

$35m

$16,055

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enough to swim in. The entire house has underfloor heating. This may seem the last word in decadence in a climate with just two cold months a year, but much appreciated when the chill hits.

A partly decked private garden wraps around the house from the family room, and there’s a large roof terrace for sundowners or alfresco barbecues. And if that all seems a bit too hot to handle, plunge into the communal swimming pool and chill.

MORE INFO

visit www.hksothebysrealty.com

living Home run It’s out with the new and in with the old this season, Chapin House’s Philippa Haydon tells Carolynne Dear.

Philippa Haydon

If you’re looking to update your home this season, it might be worth ducking into Chapin House for inspiration. The interiors store started

by Southsider Philippa Haydon in November is brimming with new pieces.

“It’s a bit of a muddle,” the mum-of-five says with a laugh when I pop down to have a sneak peak. Aladdin and his cave spring to mind.

“We’ve had so many new pieces arrive, we’re just in the process of reconfiguring the store to find a home for everything.”

The store started off as a collaboration with the Shanghai-based Chapin House, but has found its own niche in Hong Kong’s very different market. The store's emphasis is shifting to large, good-quality pieces, rather than Asian accessories.

“We’re starting to diverge slightly, which is inevitable given the differences in client demand

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patina

between here and China," Haydon says. "I am now sourcing more large pieces — dining tables, dressers, sofas and so forth. And no longer just from Shanghai. I’m not interested in knock-down prices but more in offering solid, good-quality furniture that will last for years.”

The solid-oak dining tables and dressers are produced by a French company, and Haydon has also introduced new artwork and lighting. A former architect, Haydon is happy to proffer advice.

“I’m good with furniture placement and the bigger picture. My assistant, Sam, has a fashion background and is fantastic with accessories, layering and the final details,” she says.

“This season, it’s all about texture, de-stressing and craft for a more casual, comfortable look. It’s less about minimalist chic, more about furniture that looks like it is used and less ‘put together’. Felt and wool are big, as are rusty reds and charcoal greys.

Geometrics are also still big news. Experiment

with mismatched throws and cushions — it’s a look that cries old and loved rather than shiny and new.”

MORE INFO Chapin House is open 10am-4pm, Monday to Saturday.

Unit 6, L2 Oceanic Industrial Estate, 2 Lee Lok Street, Ap Lei Chau.

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living

Wooden tops Attic Lifestyle is stocking an exciting new line of contemporary storage and accessories in cheery colours with an Asian twist by My Woodz. The range is designed by Caroline Van Thiel, who started the eco-furniture company 18 months ago when she moved to Hong Kong.

Attic’s Simone Daly says it is “uncanny” how well the My Woodz range complemented the colour palette and products she already stocked. So the two teamed up to produce an edited range for Attic in reclaimed, reused elm wood.

“My inspiration comes from an old family passion for buying antiques back in Europe,” says Van Thiel. “I would repaint old pieces into cute, coloured brocante items for my homes.

Since living in Hong Kong, my designs have started to incorporate a Chinese feel.”

The pieces are available at Attic Lifestyle's refurbished store. 12/F, Sungib Industrial Building, 53 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, www.attic-lifestyle.com, www.mywoodz.com.

Beddy buys Life’s a beach at TREE with the launch of Sand, a new range of children’s furniture by Italian designer Silvia Marlia. Fresh and funky Sunrise beds come in sunshine yellow or citrus orange and are made using top-quality American walnut or white oak. Smaller than a typical single, the space-saving beds have been neatly sized down for children aged three to six years.

Using retro 1950s dining furniture as her inspiration, Marlia has conjured a series of button-like tables and chairs in the overalls range. And her cute toolboxes will have your little ones happily archiving their bits and pieces. The boxes are made of white oak and are designed to hold A4 paper with stackable compartments for art and craft knickknacks.

28/F Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, www.tree.com.hk.

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education Inside KinderU By stimulating the right brain, the Pok Fu Lam pre-school gets your children thinking creatively, writes Eric Kong.

KinderU opened a new campus last year on a tranquil part of Shum Wan Road, Pok Fu Lam. Aimed at children under six, KinderU is all about “right-brain learning” – linked to creativity – which it argues starts before birth. Right-brain learning is most dominantly used by children under the age of three, and is then slowly lost, becoming all but dormant when children reach the age of six.

KinderU’s programmes are designed to stimulate all

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the senses: seeing, hearing, listening, smelling and touching. It engages children in a sensory-rich environment that aims to promote hands-on and extra-curricular learning, rather than rely on textbooks. By allowing the child to gain practical experience, KinderU claims to help the child to excel in every aspect.

No expense has been spared in its new 9,000 sqft campus, which is specially designed to stimulate creativity with calm, clear colours,

installations that provide ICU-quality air, and hospital-grade alkaline water systems. KinderU also boasts an impressive hormone- and gluten-free and organic school menu. It’s fully equipped with educational materials and an impressive music and dance section, complete with performance space. Music and dance are regarded as integral to right-brain learning.

By stimulating creativity, KinderU believes it can nurture cognitive abilities such as speed-

reading, calculation and multiple language learning. The school claims to achieve outstanding results in terms of music and academic achievements.

Staff are kept up-to-date with the latest right-brain education techniques through in-house training.

Chinese classical literature and the ideas of Ti Tzu Kui (Standards for being a Good Pupil and Child), a book based on the ancient teachings of Confucius, are also on the curriculum.

a brain of two halves

What is a debenture?

Ruth Benny does the figures.

A debenture is the name given to a loan agreement with an institutional borrower, such as a school. For parents, this translates into a large lump sum payable to the school on or before admission. Hong Kong schools sometimes call debentures Capital Notes, Nomination Rights or a Capital Contribution or Levy — but they are still essentially debentures. Some schools offer a variety of debentures, and others have none at all.

What is it for?

Most schools state that the annual fees cover the school’s running costs but not its capital costs. So debentures are a way for parents to contribute to the long-term funding of the school.

Many schools (including some pre-schools) require parents of new students to pay a debenture on admission. Others allow them to buy a debenture before beginning the admissions process to earn priority in the selection system.

How much is a debenture?

In Hong Kong, they range from $25,000 for ESF to $10 million for a top international school. Some schools reduce the price for the second or third sibling. There is a “secondhand” debenture market when a school is “sold out” and existing holders are permitted to transfer their debentures. The transfer price may be set by market demands or the school may cap it.

The school may also take a cut of the sale price.

What kind of debenture do I need?

Common types include individual or corporate; refundable, nonrefundable or depreciating. An individual debenture applies to one child in a family and cannot normally be transferred.

A corporate debenture is held by a company and can be used for a child of an employee.

The company may transfer this debenture if the employee decides to leave. In these circumstances, some schools allow the child to stay while others insist the child withdraws immediately once he or she is no longer covered by the corporate debenture. Children with a corporate debenture often receive priority at admissions.

Refundable, non-refundable or depreciating?

When the child leaves, some schools will refund the full debenture, without interest and less any penalties. In others, the debenture depreciates over a set number of years, sometimes to zero. In a few schools, it depreciates to zero in seven years and parents must buy a new debenture if the child is to continue at the school.

What if I can’t afford a debenture?

Some schools offer parents an alternative method of funding the school – a capital levy. This is different from a debenture in that it may be paid yearly and is refundable. It may amount to the same or more than the debenture over the course of the child’s schooling.

Ruth Benny is head girl of www.topschools.hk, helping parents secure places for their children in leading schools.

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 41

family

light the night

Moondance There’s a full moon rising on September 30.

Here’s our guide to Mid-Autumn Festival.

Lantern fever Children carry lanterns of all shapes, sizes and colours, from battery-operated anime characters to the traditional paper fish, dragons or Moon Rabbit, a traditional icon of the festival. Look for lanterns along Queen’s Road East and Stanley Market.

Call to arms This month sees the prettiest night of the Hong Kong year: Mid-Autumn Festival, when families gather in the great outdoors to picnic under lanterns and watch the brightest moonrise of the year.

Mid-Autumn Festival celebrates the end of the autumn harvest in China. It’s held on the 15th day of the eighth month, which this year falls on September 30, and is one of the most important festivals in the Chinese calendar.

Traditional customs include giving and eating mooncakes, carrying lanterns or floating sky lanterns (banned in Hong Kong, sadly) and watching fire dragons dance through the streets.

Families typically celebrate the public holiday with a reunion dinner and then head out to watch the moonrise or the special performances being held all over Hong Kong.

Victoria Park in Causeway Bay is filled with thousands of picnicking families and has the largest lantern display — best viewed after dark (6.30pm-11pm, September 27-October 1). Last year, the park displayed the world’s biggest

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lantern sculpture, a huge pulsating fish made from thousands of smaller lanterns.

It’s also a good place to see the spectacular fire dragon, which winds through the streets from nearby Tai Hang to Victoria Park. For three nights from 7.30pm, a 67-metre-long dragon is studded with thousands of lit joss sticks, red tips glowing in the dark and filling the night with fragrant smoke as it follows the noisy drums and cymbals through the backstreets of Tai Hang (September 29-October 1, free; www.taihangfiredragon.hk).

Closer to home, Southside’s beaches — particularly Repulse Bay — are popular gathering places for families with their lanterns.

Wrap the kids in glow-sticks so you can keep an eye on them as they run amok on the sand.

Aberdeen Open Square will also be hosting festive entertainment on Saturday, September 29 from 3pm, and local schools and clubs also usually lay on special events. The day after is a public holiday, which this year coincides with National Day on October 1.

According to folklore, Mid-Autumn Festival also commemorates a 14th-century uprising in China against the Mongol rulers. Legend has it the Chinese rebel leader, realizing the Mongols didn’t eat mooncakes, distributed thousands of the sweet treats to Han Chinese, each containing a note to rise up on the 15th day of the eighth month. On the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival, the rebels attacked and successfully overthrew the Mongol government.

Fire starter The Tai Hang fire dragon commemorates a plague that broke out in the village in the 1880s. Buddha appeared in a dream to a village elder with instructions to light firecrackers and perform a fire-dragon dance for three days and nights during Mid-Autumn Festival. The sulphur from the fire crackers was said to dispel the plague and the event has been repeated annually ever since.

A similar fire-dragon dance, involving two dragons, takes place at Chi Fu village in Pok Fu Lam at 7.30pm on the festival eve.

the stop

all the gossip from the school bus stop

Turning off the tech As the school term gets underway, it’s nice to see one of my children starting to follow in her mother’s gregarious footsteps. Not content with chattering to her bestie all day at school, and on the bus for a further 30 minutes, as soon as she crashes through the front door she’s straight onto the computer for further social interaction. The only problem is we’ve introduced a strict “tech” ban at home.

Facebook has been an ongoing battle – and one I will eventually lose, no doubt.

Apparently “everyone” is on Facebook.

My daughter believes she is the only child in Hong Kong, who is unable to connect via an “amusing” status update or photo.

After chatting to the mums at The Stop, I know this not to be true and am now pinning my hopes on Mr Zuckerman introducing a subscription charge.

Her gmail has also been

temporarily closed down by her father after a moment of confusion over the “reply” and “reply all” button, resulting in a mass mail-out inviting her entire class to hang out at our place. This led to an uncomfortable hour on the phone explaining to 24 sets of parents that although we were, of course, very careful about monitoring our daughter’s tech output, there had been a momentary lapse in concentration on our part and there was to be no party on Saturday afternoon.

Skype has also bitten the dust, mainly because, as lovely as it might sound to have a visual of the grandparents, in practice I would rather saw off my right arm than spend my precious Sunday night controlling four over-excited children as they bounce all over the couch out-shouting each other to Granny “live” in England.

So my eldest daughter has been left apparently unable to communicate

f

with her friends when she gets home in the afternoon. Until I came up with a cunning plan.

“Why don’t you call her?” I suggested.

Her big brown eyes lit up. “OMG, are you getting me an iPhone?” she spluttered, unable to contain her glee.

“No. You see that phone on the shelf over there? You could use that. You see, darling, it’s a landline,” I explained. “When mummy was a little girl, she used to phone people on it all the time and chat to her heart’s content.”

So after a couple of 21st-century texts to find out her bestie’s landline number, two happy pre-teens have been chatting away for nothing.

The connection won’t go “down”, they can use the phone in any room without worrying about the router being able to penetrate concrete walls, and the conversation history won’t be used against them in a job interview in ten years’ time.

Flushed with my success, I’m considering replacing the Playstation with jigsaws. But maybe that really would that be a step too far...

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 43

health & beauty After sun Treatments to burnish your golden glow.

By Coco Marett

Sabai Day Spa With its chic, Indian-inspired decor and charming courtyard out back, Sabai Day Spa has won legions of fans since opening its Stanley branch in March. That’s hardly surprising, given its friendly welcome and quality treatments, many of which use top-of-the-line Elemis products. We asked owner Linda Sharp to recommend her top treatments for sloughing off summer excesses.

Pro-Collagen Quartz Facial Buy back some time with the miracle that is Sabai’s Pro-Collagen Quartz facial. Using top-of-the-line products, this anti-ageing collagen treatment is specially designed to give a youthful glow to mature and dry skin. $1,380.

Balancing Lavender Facial For skin in need of damage control, this treatment includes a thorough cleansing, toning and skin buff followed by a luscious lavender mask to deeply cleanse and repair all skin types. 60 minutes, $720.

the instructor Chewing the fat: Louis Doctrove offers tips to stay lean.

“But I don’t want to look like a bodybuilder!” If only I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard this from my female clients. This is not something to worry about as testosterone is responsible for the large increase in muscle mass seen when men lift weights, and women obviously have much lower testosterone levels.

Women trying to gain lean muscle need to eat adequate protein (Nature’s Village on Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, has whey protein shakes) and good fats to fuel the body before and after training.

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Body Scrub Time in the sun can leave your skin dry but Sabai Day Spa has a bespoke solution to get you soft and supple in no time — well, 45 minutes. After examining your skin type, the beauty therapist will choose a scrub to bring out the best in your skin. The deep, relaxing scrub is followed by a hand-picked moisturizing body lotion. $450.

Luxury Manicure Taking the usual cut and polish to the next level, this luxury manicure includes a nourishing hand scrub to renew the skin before nails are trimmed, shaped and polished. Followed by your choice of a paraffin mask to restore suppleness and prevent ageing hands or a full hand and arm massage. 80 minutes for $460.

Sabai Day Spa, 12A Stanley Main Street, Stanley, 2104 0566, www.sabaidayspa.com

Most women have “trouble areas” where fat is stored, usually the thighs, glutes and triceps — particularly in Hong Kong, where long hours working at a desk can make fat in these areas difficult to shed.

These areas may have more receptors that block fat breakdown than receptors that increase fat breakdown.

My solution is a cardio- and resistance-training program to help burn fat and gain lean muscle. All you need are resistance bands or a TRX harness (available at OPS studio, 2/F World Trust Tower, 50 Stanley Street, Central).

I recommend a programme of four to five resistance-based exercises (15-20 reps for each exercise) followed by two to three minutes of cardio. This could include squats, bicep curls, TRX rows,

sunkissed more more more Shanghainese Pedicure at Mandarin Oriental Summer is hard on feet — all that hot sand, rough poolside tiles and pounding the streets in barely there sandals. So give them a makeover at the Mandarin Salon. Its worldfamous Shanghainese Pedicure rids feet of painful calluses and rough skin using sharp steel blades, an art brought to the hotel

by Samuel So’s family in 1989.

Rumour has it you won’t even feel a tickle, so just lean back in its cushioned pedicure “throne”, enjoy and step out with your new babysoft soles. $700, Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road-Central, 2825 4800, www. mandarinoriental.com.hk

Opium at Sense of Touch Staff at Sense of Touch in Repulse Bay describe its bestselling treatment as addictive, appropriately enough. It is a powerful body and mind switch-off, great if you need a deep, peaceful night’s sleep.

It begins with a poppy-seed scrub followed by a massage to release physical, mental and emotional stress. This sedating full-body massage uses an earthy blend of calming essential oils, including vetiver chamomile and sandalwood. $1,500 for 90 minutes.

The Repulse Bay Arcade, 109 Repulse Bay Road, 2592 9668, www.senseoftouch.com.hk.

This year, the rules of weight loss are changing forever!

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For other HK meeting locations call 2813 0814 or visit www.weightwatchers.com.hk

push-ups and burpees to hit all areas of the body. After completing all five exercises, plus the two- to three-minute run, repeat for a total of four sets. The idea is to train intensively for around 30-40 minutes. Do this workout two or three times a week and you’ll soon see results.

Louis Doctrove (louisdoctrove@hotmail.com) is a NASM-certified personal trainer with a Sports and Exercise Science BSc. He specialises in strength training, weight loss and TRX suspension training.

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 45

outdoors A racing start September sees Outward Bound’s first ever Multi-Race. Who’s up for it?

For anyone who ever wanted to try an adventure race but felt intimidated, afraid it might be too much to handle, it’s time to lace up your boots. Outward Bound Hong Kong has created the first OBHK Multi-Race, a unique, rookie-friendly affair that offers a relatively gentle taste of the sorts of activities found in a full-scale endurance test. The inaugural race takes place this month in Sai Kung to raise funds for charities.

Participants can expect a mini version of the renowned OBHK Adventure Race, which takes place every March, giving adrenaline junkies the chance to scramble across rocks, dash down gullies, crawl through caves and submerge themselves in water.

But rather than the Adventure Race’s demanding 15km-20km route, the Multi-Race will run over a 12km course, and requires teams of two rather than four.

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taking the plunge

Need to know When: September 30, 8am-2pm Where: Start/finish at Outward Bound base, Tai Mong Tsai R oad, Sai Kung Teams: Two people a team Fees: $2,000 a team Categories: Youth, Open, Master Bring: • Hydration system • Trail running shoes • Compass • Emergency first aid kit • Change of clothes

For details, email donation@outwardbound.org.hk, call 2554 6067 or go to www.outwardbound.org.hk/ar.

The race will start and finish at Outward Bound’s Tai Mong Tsai headquarters, making the most of the Sai Kung Country Park. It will include the usual trail-running, gorging, orienteering, kayaking and swimming, but with a few surprise challenges thrown in along the way.

Requiring brains as well as brawn, the race is designed to encourage the skills that lie at the heart of Outward Bound’s philosophy – communication, problem-solving and teamwork.

Teams are divided by age into youth (aged 14-17), open (adults, aged 18-39) and master (the over40s). The event is open to anyone who is relatively fit and keen to challenge themselves. Winning teams will be rewarded with fantastic prizes.

Because the event is multidisciplinary, Outward Bound suggests combining strength and endurance training with skills training as a way to prepare for the race. Trekking, running, cycling and paddling will help to prepare yourself physically and mentally.

You will also need to determine roles, goals and your team philosophy with your partner before the big day – a good team dynamic is crucial.

Money raised will be distributed to Outward Bound’s core charities, including the Samaritans, Mother’s Choice, the Children’s Cancer Foundation and Second Chance, allowing people who have suffered from addiction, illness or abuse to participate in an Outward Bound course. So team up and start training.

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 47

travel Hanoi rocks

Coco Marett gets real in Vietnam.

I went to Hanoi not knowing what to expect. I’ve vacationed in southern Vietnam more times than I can count on both hands, how different could the north be? Well...

We stayed at The Intercontinental Hanoi Westlake Village, which is stunning. It’s a collection of low-rise buildings that branches out across the waters of Hanoi’s largest lake, overlooking the 800-year-old Golden Lotus Pagoda.

We arrived at an ungodly hour, just as the sky was fading from black to a greyish blue. The air was crisp and the lake so still you could see the hotel perfectly mirrored in its waters.

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Time for breakfast. And a dose of reality. The restaurant looked across the water at the outside world: derelict buildings, abandoned construction sites, children washing in the lake and frail old men on makeshift rafts fishing litter from the water.

We were too far removed from day-to-day Hanoi on this side of the lake and it was time to get uncomfortable.

First stop, Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

It’s dizzying. And not just because of the moped madness. Every few steps, the smell shifts from offensive to tantalising to “What is that? I must have it!” Women whizz past with baskets of perfectly

crusty baguettes (thank you, French colonialism) and local businesses spill out of old buildings onto the sidewalk.

It’s a web of 36 streets, most of which are named after a commodity once sold by local businesses – medicine, fans, horse-hair products, copper and even coffins. With a few modern tweaks, most streets continue to specialise and thrive in their respective niches. Our favourite was Hang Gai Street, with its myriad silk stores filled with dresses, bags, shoes and homeware in amazing colours and often hand-embroidered.

This is organized chaos. The

streets pulse and buzz with a mutual understanding and harmony that is the product of no traffic lights and a collective hustler mentality.

It’s worth making a day of it – go to the Old Quarter with no plan, explore and allow yourself to be be pleasantly surprised. It’s also worth planting yourself on an anklehigh plastic stool to experience the magic that is streetside pho.

In Hanoi, I tried fancy fusion food, “upscale” Vietnamese and Bobby Chinn’s famous restaurant but nothing could compete with the bowl of noodles in broth that had been brewing all morning on a streetside cart, then loaded with

up north

fresh local herbs and served by a lady in her pyjamas.

Also worth visiting is the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, unless you’re there during his annual two-month makeover in Russia. Following in the footsteps of Lenin and Stalin, Ho’s body is kept inside a heavily guarded monumental marble mausoleum.

Filing past involves several queues, security checks and plenty of rules: hands where you can see them and no talking inside or around the mausoleum. Cameras are confiscated, to be collected when you leave. Frustrated at having to turn in my camera, I turned to my friend and whispered “It’s like you can feel the communi...”

“SHHH!” a stern-faced soldier stopped me mid-sentence.

The majority of Uncle Ho’s visitors weren’t tourists but Vietnamese, paying homage to their country’s revered father figure. Things lighten up outside the mausoleum, with a tour around the gorgeous French colonial Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s house – a simple twostorey structure on stilts shaded by mango trees and overlooking a fishpond.

Truth is, Hanoi is indifferent to whether you like it or not. There’s no fawning over tourists or eagerness to please. Though frustrating at times, it’s this toughness that makes Hanoi a truly intriguing place.

Taking the pulse of Hanoi's Old Quarter

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pets Stormbreakers Thunder can terrify animals.

Cynthia Smillie restores the calm

After Typhoon Vicente, I had a phone call from a distressed client whose little Maltese terrier had bitten her badly during the thunderstorm. The dog had been hiding under the bed and when the owner tried to pull him out to comfort him, the dog had been like a thing possessed, and had inflicted some quite serious bites on her hands and arms.

Such a frenzied reaction is rare, fortunately, but while we might enjoy a day off when the No.8 signal goes

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up, for many animals, particularly dogs, the typhoon season is a time of anxiety and fear that may border on the phobic. This causes misery to both animal and owner.

But there is much owners can do, first to help their dog get through the thunderstorm when it occurs and also by taking a longer-term approach to desensitise the dog.

Provide your dog with a safe, cosy den that mimics the small, enclosed space a dog would choose in the wild. Ahead of time,

it is important the dog has been encouraged to use the den through food and toys, so it is associated with rest and relaxation. The den will then become a bolthole in the event of thunderstorms.

A good option is a collapsible metal crate covered with soundproofed padding on three sides, and filled with plenty of comfortable bedding that the dog can burrow under. Place the crate in your quietest room (perhaps a bathroom) and preferably in a corner created

by solid walls to provide an additional sound barrier. The sense of security can be increased by using pheromone therapy such as a DAP diffuser plugged in close to the crate as well as placing items of old, unwashed clothing in the crate.

Close windows and block them with heavy curtains to prevent the dog seeing the flashes of lightning and play rhythmic music with a good beat at a moderately loud but comfortable volume to help mask outside noises.

scaredy cats and dogs

Pet personals Need a pet? These sweethearts are looking to shack up. For details, call Kirsten at 9490 2061 or email kirstenszoo@gmail.com An owner's first instinct is to want to comfort their pet but soothing or reassuring your dog will only reinforce his fear, so try to appear happy and relaxed during the event.

These measures can reduce anxiety levels in many dogs but where the fear is extreme, consider using appropriate short-term medication. Many dogs start to become anxious well before the first clap of thunder as they can sense an impending storm through

changes in air pressure and light.

Medication can be initiated at the first sign of anxiety.

Phobias tend to escalate over time, so it is advisable to treat dogs before the problem becomes severe. Long-term treatment involves using commercially available sound-desensitisation CDs designed to treat phobias.

Taken together, these measures should ensure that the next time the No.8 goes up, your dog can enjoy the party.

Dr. Cynthia Smillie BVM&S PG DIp CABC MRCVS is a veterinary behaviourist and deals solely with behaviour problems in companion animals. For appointments please call 9618 2475 or visit www.petbehaviourhk.com

Hannie

Indefix

Chili

Hannie and her 2 sisters are looking for love.Â

A lovely little lady looking for a fresh start.

This sweetheart proves blondes have more fun.

Malinois

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Happy, healthy, male and female Malinois.

A charismatic brothersister pair sticks together.Â

Take your pick from this pretty litter.

Wellness exams & vaccinations Diagnostic testing & imaging Dental & surgical procedures Health certificate for pet travel New pet products!

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 51

gardening

big wind

T10 and counting Jane Ram cleans up after Vicente Monday.

Hong Kong’s most serious typhoon in 13 years caught most of us unawares. Gardeners had widely varied experience: some lost years of love and labour in a couple of hours. Others suffered nothing more than masses of falling leaves, while huge trees were splintered like matchwood only a few metres away.

The unusual southeasterly direction of the gales seems to have precipitated the fall of many big branches and mature trees that were probably already doomed to fall over the next few years.

The total number of lost trees has yet to be tallied, but it will be substantial. The monetary cost of the clear-up will be high, but the aesthetic and sentimental loss cannot be calculated.

According to a long and enlightening article by Eddie Luk, writing in the Hong Kong Standard 10 days after the storm, it costs about $200 to right a fallen tree that can be saved, compared with about $1,500 for cutting and transporting a tree that has ended its useful life.

Replacement trees are probably less costly (if they can be sourced) than the labour required to plant them.

We have become accustomed to trees along roadsides and in open spaces, but after Typhoon Vicente perhaps we will not take them so much for granted. The government planted 18.8 million trees during the years 2001-11 and spent $455 million on planting in the past two financial years.

Doubtless replanting on a massive scale will be carried out over the next few years.

But replacements for iconic trees such as the Nathan Road banyans will take decades to mature and in the meantime we will have to accustom ourselves to the naked look of the cityscape without these familiar friends.

The chorus of chainsaws seems set to continue for some time to come. Regrettably, the cut wood is being bagged for transportation to landfill as apparently there is no way that it can be chipped or shredded to make compost.

The impact on landfill space is alarming and the waste of a potentially useful resource is shameful.

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Trunk call: trees took the brunt of the typhoon.

Changing shades A majestic and beautiful peepul tree (Ficus religiosa) behind my house crashed down at about 9pm on Vicente Monday. Considerately it fell where it caused minimal damage and it is likely to remain in situ for some time, like a dinosaur, while more urgent cases are dealt with. I miss it more than I would have imagined, for its beauty and its function. It provided an under-appreciated barrier between my workroom and neighbouring houses, giving the illusion of privacy as well as insulation from noise and glare in summer. The light has changed in what were formerly shaded areas of the garden and while some plants revel in the more intense and longer hours of sunshine, I have had to do considerable rearrangement to avoid scorching some of the more tender shade-lovers.

Where are the benches?

I’ve been enjoying the hunt for suitable gardens to inspire artists for art teacher Roz Keep. Hong Kong has many beautiful private Jane Ram is a professional writer with a passion for plants. She has been gardening in Hong Kong for over 30 years and is still learning. Please email her at janetaipeng@ gmail.com with comments and queries, and to be kept informed of occasional workshops and excursions for gardeners.

and public gardens, but not all meet the basic criteria. Foremost of which is somewhere to sit, preferably shaded and facing the most paint-ogenic view. Alas, Hong Kong has few benches.

And many of them face in the wrong direction.

So now I’m hunting for folding canvas stools.

September Garden Tasks Seed raising This is the season for raising most kinds of seed. Any seeds of flowers and vegetables that you would normally consider for spring sowing in a temperate climate should succeed through our autumn and winter. Until the tiny plants are ready to be transplanted, it’s easier to control conditions in a pot rather than in the ground, but if you have the space, you can rig up a small nursery bed and see how your seeds fare directly in soil. At least they will be spared transplant shock!

Herbs Persuade any surviving herbs from last summer that they should take an interest in life. Trim the plants and give them a weak dose of fertiliser. Try sowing seeds of basil (all kinds), coriander and parsley.

Cuttings Put in cuttings from roses, pelargoniums and geraniums, bougainvillea and hibiscus. Be sure to label them with details of the colours – they will all look more or less the same until flowering time which might be a year or more in the future.

marketplace

To advertise, email: ads@saikung.com

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Not all behavioural problems are simply training issues.

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Tel: 9618 2475 cynthia@petbehaviourhk.com

www.petbehaviourhk.com WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 55

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Masked laughingthrush

aka Garrulax perspicillatus

Laughingthrushes are medium-sized, shortwinged, long-tailed birds that tend to move around in noisy groups. Many of them, such as the Chinese hwamei and black-throated laughingthrush common on Hong Kong Island, are vibrant songsters.

People are likely to be more familiar with the masked laughingthrush, which is common even in built-up areas, frequenting parks and gardens. Unlike some of its congeners, it is neither particularly colourful nor melodious.

Plumage-wise, it is a rather dull grey and brown bird with a black mask around the eye. The feathers on its grey crown are often raised, giving the bird a rather dishevelled appearance.

Its sociable nature gives the species a certain endearing appeal. Parties of five-10 birds move together low down in shrubbery and descend to the ground to feed on invertebrates such as grasshoppers. They also eat fruit and seeds. As they roam, they emit contact calls, usually a loud ringing “kew�.

They breed from March to August. The nest is an untidy cup made of grass, leaves, and even shreds of paper built in shrubs, small trees or bamboo. Breeding is thought to be cooperative and young birds may be cared for by members of the group other than their parents.

The masked laughingthrush occurs in central and southern China, and northern Vietnam.

David Diskin is the author of Hng Kong Nature Walks: The New Terretories.

Visit www.hknaturewalks.com or accipiterpress.com for more information.

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 57

classifieds LOCAL Property GORGEOUS GARDEN HOUSE HK$50 K / $16 M — Sai Kung Rather special 3 Beds, plus Study Family Home. Attractive Decor, Sea Views, Pretty Location & Convenient for Transport, Lovely Bathrooms & Fully Fitted & Equipped Kitchen, Car Park. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk, 2719 3977, C-027656

STUNNING FAMILY VILLA HK$ 95 K — Sai Kung Immaculate. 5 Beds. Beautifully Decorated. Spacious Floor Plan.

Fabulous Kitchen, Split Level Living & Dining, Separate Play Room, Huge Outdoor Spaces.

Sea Views. Good Management, 2 C/P. Convenient Location, Stroll to Sai Kung. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk, 2719 3977, C-027656

Sea view unit to let Two storey both with balcony, around 550 sq ft per flat located in first street, Sok Kwu Wan, Lamma Island, newly renovated. Three bedrooms furnished with individual air-conditioner & one bathroom with tub and water heater on the first floor, one sitting room furnished with air conditioner aside by open kitchen with hood embedded & one bathroom water heater on second floor. 5 minutes’ walk to pier going back central or Aberdeen ferry. Half hour to the nearby beach as well. HK$18,000 per monthly rent for a 2 year Tenant agreement lease contract (Welcome for flat visit, call Joyce for arrangement)

No management fee and commission required please find attached the website for the time ferry schedules. http://www.ferry.com.hk/ http://www.hkkf.com.hk Joyce (98770876)

Midlevels 1791’ $75K Brand New Renovated Apartment, with light wooden floor, 4Bedrooms, Maid Room and Spacious Interior. Stylish Kitchen with Branded Appliances.

Modern Ensuite and Guest Bathrooms.

Has Good Size Round Shape Balcony.

1 Covered Car Park Include.

Mobile: 9046 5425 (Rita)

Fully furnished stylish apartment Originally two bedrooms, the apartment has been turned into a spacious and comfortable studio. Bright and airy, the apartment is on a high floor with windows on three sides. It’s located near the University of HK in Sai Ying Pun, in a building with 24-hour security and lifts.

Designed with thoughtful details and good taste, the apartment is full-furnished and internet-ready, complete with washing machine, fridge, induction cooker, 2 air cons, water-heater, TV, built-in wardrobe, platform bed, sofa and blinds. Available from 16 August.

Please text or whatsapp Pearl 9195 0530.

Monmouth Place Lovely green view Huge viewing windows - made of white stainless steel; Newly renovated of designer’s taste Jogging facilities, tennis court nearby Good transportation network — 5 minutes to Wanchai, Causeway Bay or Admiralty Quiet environment! Don’t miss! Contact: David Wong 2551 6133/ 2550 3376

Penthouse Bar Characteristic: - Roof with drinking bar and BBQ set - Modern kitchen in European style - Huge Balcoies at 1/F & 2/F - Stainless Steel covered Balcony at G/F is a wonderful place for breakfast and dinner Pls visit www.kthouse2.com to know more about this house For rent: 50K per mth Contact: David Wong 2551 6133/ 2550 3376

Furnished Sea View Pokfulam $16.8K Upper Floor Open Sea View Green View apartment. Pokfulam South-East facing sea and hillside. The facilities are good, swimming pool, garden, small gym with shower, reading room. It’s very close to Supermarket, Wet market, Restaurant etc. Easy access by public transport to all areas of HK and Kowloon. Very good value for your money. Mix of Westerners, expats and locals who live here.

This newly furnished apartment with everything you need: bed with mattress, spare folding bed for guests, couch, dining table and chairs, air-conditioners x 3, water heater for shower, HDTV, fridge, washing machine, microwave, oven, even cooking utensils and dining ware. SO it is totally hassle-free and you only need to bring your luggage. There is Open View

balcony with nice outdoor chairs for you to enjoy a can of beer.

The monthly rent is ** $16800 ** including management fee and government rates. Viewing by appointment. I am available most of the daytime.

Contact: HARRY 6578 7484

Email classifieds@southside.hk 58 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

random but interesting MOTORING

N

EW O N TI C SE

Overseas Property

1998 Porsche Boxter 2.5L only 148K Quick Sale PERFECT condition 44,000 klm only. Lady Owner.

2 Door Convertible, Auto / TipTronic, Petrol, Black Leather, Air Con Recently had a baby thus must sell this baby!

Exceptional price so no time wasters please Garaged in Soho & licensed until Dec’12 Mb: 957 56439 Contact: Donna District: Central

Luxury Beach Villa in Cebu Island Philippines for rent. (Fully Staffed) 4 double rooms all with bath. 3 direct flights per day from HK. We have a Private Chef, New 50ft sailing yacht, 2speedboats, Hobie Cat and more... www.cebubeach.net or contact owner +852 9162 5321

Luxury villa in Phuket available for rent.

3 double bed with ensuite bathrooms plus maid’s room and 1 extra bed. Private pool. 7 min walk to Bangtao Beach. US$250350 per night. Owner 9194 6630.

This link for more pics: http://ferrari360golfgti.shutterfly.com/pictures/8 Price: HK$780K Contact: GA / Mb: 96800859

N EW O N TI C SE

MOTORING

Ferrari 360 — 2000 Color: Black Interior: Black leather Rare Manuel Transmission 36,000 KM on the clock 19’ Forged Wheels + new tires Full Service history @ Italian Motor Last full service in July 2012 6 Pot Calipers on front brakes; Brembo made for Ferrari Capristo Exhaust with awesome sound New Cam-belt / Fuel hose (no one out there pays attention to fuel hose but aged fuel hose may cause fire) Car in IMMACULATE condition

Rare Jaguar X-type Rare X-Type Jaguar 2009/2010 2.0 SE V6 for sale: Low mileage, regular serviced exclusively

by Jaguar since Day 1, original owner, full serviced recently, new tires, extensive wood trim and power sunroof. Well maintained and in brand new condition. Chauffeur driven.

Test drive available. Our marked price only HKD168K. Make: Jaguar Model: X-Type.

Year: 2009/2010. Capacity: 2099 cc/ Color: Metallic Black/Body type: 4-door/ Engine type: Petro /Transmission: Automatic Contact: Umesh — 9524 1814

Porsche 996 C2 Porsche 996 C2 (Jebsen) Year: 2001 Color: Silver. Engine: 3.4 Tiptronic /With: Electronic Sunroof, 6 load CD Player, Navigation System, Aircon, Xenon lamps.

Mileage in kilometers: 42,260 Km/ 1 previous owner Price: HKD360,000. Please call or sms: Manu — 6124-5034

12/2003 BMW 325ci convertible facelift model HK$158000 reduced to HK$145000 for quick sale Grey color with grey leather seat, Black soft top, low mileage 42000km only, Lic tax: 13-9-2012, government MOT to 5-2013, All new front and rear brake disk and brake pads, Newly oil services and change all filter, New tyres, very good condition.

Price HK$158000 reduced to HK$145,000. Contact: Tim /Mb: 9232 0123

Porsche Boxster 2011 Convertible An eye catching, head turning drive. Hate to part with it but having first baby, so need to get family 4door car. A great weekend car for cruising the highways and scenic roads. Brand & Model: Porsche Boxster Convertible. Manufacturing: 2011.

Body: White with Spots kit upgrade. Interior: Black Leather Sports Bucket Seat.

Service: Maintained by Jebsen. Mileage: about 9500km. Engine: 2.9. Conditions: Excellent brand new condition. Add-on: Security Alarm, 6 CD changer, Bose sound system, Sports kit with 18” rims License: May 2013. Owner: 0 owner. Selling Reason: Changing to a car that takes a baby seat! Remark: No Car dealers. Asking for: HK$725,000 quick sale! Baby coming! (Reduced from HK$755,000) Contact: Daryl Yeoh – 6507 7506

for classifieds booking or call 2776 2772 WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 59

classifieds N EW O N TI C SE

BOATS

Searay Sundancer 250DA Built in 1996 excellent condition, regularly serviced Full engine kit installed Jan 2011 by Mercursier rep (235KW engine).

Two sleeping berths, fridge, cooker, and lots of other extras added.

Berthed at Hebe Haven please call for a viewing or test run.

Contact: Trevor — 51801966 Price: 450,000 HKD

Email classifieds@southside.hk for classifieds booking

Lifestyle for Sale A beautiful boat. A wonderful lifestyle.

Scenic master bedroom with ensuite bathroom + 3 bedrooms + playroom with a fold down Murphy bed + black marble caterer’s kitchen with Miele and Smeg appliances + entertainer’s lounge + formal dining room that seats 12 + office/study + family bathroom with full size bath = over 1600’ living space + outdoor living area including bbq and jacuzi + small deck off the dining room 18m GRP Cruiser 300shp Cummings engine 15kva generator A lifestyle choice for making the best of Hong Kong’s fantastic water and beaches. HK$4.5 million. Mooring is available in Aberdeen. Boat can be viewed in Sai Kung. Call Brian 9102 8719 or Sonia 91029476

Employment PILATES INSTRUCTOR WANTED Small friendly studio in Stanley is looking for qualified Allegro and Mat Pilates Instructors. Contact Louise at: ALLEGRO PILATES STUDIO Ph: 62957881 or visit: www.pilatesinstanley.com

Home Deliveries Award winning wines from Australia and New Zealand, highest quality, lowest prices directly from the winery to your door! Visit us at www.winestore.com.hk or email justin@winestore.com.hk.

Tuition & Courses Piano Lesson @ HOME in English/ Cantonese by professional and qualified teachers. Annual Recital in Cityhall. Trial lessons available, visit www.grandpiano.hk for details.

Health & Well Being No need to go to Central....

Cambridge Weight Plan has experienced consultants on the Southside and in Pokfulam. We help you create an easy-to-manage flexible weight loss plan and provide motivation and support every step of the way. Call our friendly local consultants today! Paula 92760911 and Laila 98209592 info@cambridgeweightplan.hk www.cambridgeweightplan.hk

PILATES INSTRUCTOR WANTED Small friendly studio in Stanley is looking for qualified Allegro and Mat Pilates Instructors. Contact Louise at: ALLEGRO PILATES STUDIO Ph: 6295 7881 or visit: www.pilatesinstanley.com

NATIVE SPANISH TEACHER. Spanish for all levels, IB, I/GCSE. Experienced teacher.

Private and group lessons. Flexible hours. Kids, teenagers and adults. ilsabeth@hotmail.com 9043 5105.

Domestic Help Experienced Cantonese-speaking and Mandarin-speaking nanny.

Good moral character and childcare knowledge. Qualified teaching background. Available to start in September. Please call 6181 3365 or email: eviefan@hellokitty.com

Are you looking for Driver, Gardener? ADONIS CANEDO, 33 years old, working in Hong Kong for 2 years. Pls contact 51339984.

Berkeley Master Math Tutor For IGCSE, GCSE, DSE, IB Math.

Years of teaching experiences.

Master in Engineering, UC-Berkeley.

Tutorial session at your home/ café, 1-to-1 or small group. Call Cyrus Wong 6686 0889 Email: cyruswongberkeley@live.hk URL: facebook.com/ CyrusKingEducation

Domestic helper seeks full time employer. Jacqueline Liagon, 44yrs old, filipino (married with 2 children).

Experience in household chores, children, pets, elderly, babysitting.

I’m hardworking, flexible, can work independently. Experience in expat family and chinese family. Pls call my mobile no.92478937. References from previous employers are available on hand. Thanks.

ENGLISH TEACHER 20 yrs solid experience. K1-S6 TOEFL IELTS Cambridge HKDSE. Kids Fun Reading Programs. New immigrant English, TOEIC. Dyslexia and Phonics Clinic. Numerous successful graduates. Ms. Lau 81034686

Part Time Helper available. I am a happy and helpful domestic helper with 8 years broad experience. I have a pleasant demeanor and get along well with babies, children and parents alike.

I am available for several times a week or every day part time. Sarah 6715 3093, lady_g2010@yahoo.com

Email classifieds@southside.hk 60 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

classifieds Services ShenZhen DayTrip Shopping Hk 2,000. with 7-Seaters Lighting Mall, Furniture Mall, Art village, Home decoration, Carpet and Rugs.

Franki (90362128) happyday2128@netvigator.com

Where’s the Will, If both parents die together, children become Wards of Court. A HK orphanage would likely be their new home! For quick, simple and affordable Wills, call Phoenix Wills 3100 0101 Email: Bradley@WheresTheWill.com

Private Party Perfect Location Available for all party themes, located at Central Lan Kwai Fong with open balcony, capacity up to 90 pax, we provide food catering and open bar package www.ottolounge.com to get the quote online T: 6627 7499 info@ottolounge.com

Entertainment and Events Services Bespoke, all inclusive consultancy providing customized entertainment services and event solutions. Corporate / Birthdays / Private Events / Entertainment / Creative / Photo & Event / Filming Services.

E: info@entertainingasia.com T: 2815-7919. www.entertainingasia.com

Digital Lifestyle Services One-Stop tailor-made • Bilingual Cloud storage name cards, images, videos, CD VHS/ DVD. • Work or personal Website with Free hosting.

• OneStop purchase and setup of iPad including latest Apps, connect to TV/camera & training at your convenience.

• Bookkeeping, accounts preparation & Spreadsheet training for home or workplace.

Free consultation Virgil Chan 9190 9686 Email: rednature28@gmail.com Digital Lifestyle site http://digital-lifestyle.weebly.com Twitter @Rednature28 with Consumer electronics/ IT trend, KPop and more...

Insurance: Home, Motor, Medical We are HK’s leading general insurance broker. Call for an instant quote or visit the website www.kwiksure. com. Call Christian on +852 3113 1331 or emailchristian@kwiksure.com

Charities / Community

2896 0000 The Samaritans 24 hour Multilingual Suicide Prevention Hotline.

Samaritans offer non-judgmental, confidential emotional support 24/7, 365 days/year to anyone going through a crisis or who just needs to talk something through. Please call 2896 0000 or email: jo@samaritans.org.hk . For more information: www.samaritans.org.hk

URGENT! DOG FOOD SPONSORS Sai Kung Stray Friends We have approximately 35 dogs on our daily “meal supply”.

The cost is $2,222 every 8 days. If you would like to donate to help please deposit directly into our a/c: HSBC 004640085486001 Receipts can be issued. Much appreciated!

REGISTER AS A VOLUNTEER Give a few hours of your time to Sai Kung Stray Friends. If you want to do something worthwhile come and help at our holding facility in Sai Kung.

Any day or time suitable to you. Various tasks, sweeping, cleaning, dog walking, paddock Mum or just providing some love to the dogs. Dads are welcome too for mowing duty!

Email: saikungstrayfriendshk@gmail.com Call Narelle: 9199.2340 (English) Jessie: 9097.4591 (Chinese)

VOLUNTARY POSITIONS NEEDED Sai Kung Stray Friends *Kennel Carer - 1 or 2 days per week *Weekend Sai Kung Homing Team *Fundraising Director *Website director *Daily Meals on Wheels delivery roster *Rescue & Desexing Join us in our local community initiative to help our beautiful animals.

Email: saikungstrayfriendshk@gmail.com Call Narelle: 9199 2340 (English) Jessie: 9097 4591 (Chinese)

DONATE OLD BABY CLOTHES, toys and equipment to mothers in need. Small toys, wraps, bottles and teething toys are desperately needed by Pathfinders, a charity that helps migrant mothers find a safe and legal home. Call Kylie: 9460 1450 or Luna (Chinese speaking): 5135 3015.

DONATE CLOTHES, SHOES, BOOKS, toys and electrical appliances in good condition. Reach out to help the poor and disadvantaged men, women and children in our communities. All profits help the needy in Hong Kong and mainland China. Collection hotline: 2716 8778. Donation hotline: 2716 8862.

Website: www.christian-action.org.hk Blog: http://siewmei.cahk.org Email: ca@christian-action.org.hk

Advertise your business and get great results!

Email classifieds@southside.hk for classifieds booking or call 2776 2772

for classifieds booking or call 2776 2772 WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 61

the ultimate guide to southside COMMUNITY & HEALTH Elite Nursing Ltd.

2566 0630 info@elitenursing.com.hk www.elitenursing.com.hk

Bayley & Jackson Dental Surgeons Limited 2526 1061 / 2524 7116 Caritas-HK 2538 7777 / 2550 7620 Feeding HK 2205 6568 http://feedinghk.org Watermark Community Church 2857 6160 info@watermarkchurch.hk www.watermarkchurch.hk

DAILY NECESSITIES 7-Eleven 2299 1110 Circle K Convenience Stores (HK) Limited 2294 9164 City Lifestyle 2856 1817 (Stanley) 2580 1314 (Aberdeen) Mannings 2553 3244 Market Place by Jasons 2812 0340 ParknShop 2294 9327 Taste 2813 9521 Wellcome 2813 9363

FINANCIAL SERVICES Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited 2553 4165 / Â 2553 0135 Bank Of Communications 25536281 / 25538282 Chi Yu Banking Corp 2233 3000 Hang Seng Bank Ltd 2822 0228 FONGS Lawyers 3693 2800 / 66881023 info@fongslawyers.com.hk www.fongslawyers.com.hk Show Security Home Property Management Shares Co Ltd 2384 2208 Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited 2814 0845 Skymade Premiums Company 2352 7398 The Bank of East Asia Limited 3609 1651/ 3609 1637/ 3609 1636 Wing Lung Bank Ltd 2552 7688

62 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

HOME Attic Lifestyle 2580 8552 info@attic-lifestyle.com www.attic-lifestyle.com Box Design 2573 3323 info@boxdesign.com.hk www.boxdesign.com.hk Calcite Indoor Environment 3428 5441 info@calcitegroup.com www.calcitegroup.com Chez Uno 2791 9662 / 2723-8990 www.chezuno.com Indigo Living Ltd. 2552 3500 info@indigo-living.com www.indigo-living.com JCAW Consultants 2524 9988 jcawltd@biznetvigator.com Life's A Breeze 2572 4000 www.lifesabreexehk.com LLS Design & Associates Ltd 2117 8983 www.llsdesign.com.hk sales@llsdesign.com.hk Oriental Rugs 2543 4565 rugshop@biznetvigator.com Studio Annetta 9849 1216 suzy@studioannetta.com www.studioannetta.com

MULTIMEDIA Asian Artworks Gallery 28120850 Broadway Circuit 2529 3898 Dymocks 28031623 Four Dimensional Book Centre 2555 9528 HJ Seich Photography 9229 2407 heidi@hjselchphotography.com www.hjselchphotography.com HS modernart 28129123 The Commercial Press (Hong Kong) Limited 25523621

Get listed call 2776 2772 email marketing@southside.hk

LEARNING CENTRES

PlayTent Learning Center

Shop B1, Mezzanine Floor, No.18 Stanley Main Street. Hong Kong Tel: 2276 0488 info@playtent.com.hk | www.playtent.com.hk Anastassia's Art House 2719 5533 arthouse.hk@gmail.com www.arthouse-hk.com Craft Box 9014 3262 simone@craftbox.asia www.craftbox.asia Grand Piano www.grandpiano.hk International Academy of Flim & Television 5808 3440 info@iaft.hk iaft.hk Montessori for Children 2813 9589 hongkong@montessori.edu.sg www.montessori.edu.sg Morningstar Preschool and Kindergarten 9736 5241 info@MorningstarSchools.com www.morningstarschools.com Orton-Gillingham Centre for Different Learners 2525 8998 eric@msl-orton.com www.msl-orton.com.hk RugBees Ltd 2117 3055 nicepeople@rugbees.com www.rugbees.com Southside Kindergarten 2592 7527 Sunshine House Pre-schools Hong Kong 2813 0713 taitam@sunshinehouse.com.hk

UTILITIES, SERVICES & EMERGENCY China Light & Power Emergency Services 2728 8333 China Light & Power Customer Info Line 2678 2678 Electrical Appliance Repair Hong Kong Mr Ho 9846 8082 St John Ambulance Assn & Brigade Dist Hq 2555 0119 Tung Wah Group Of Hospitals 2538 5867 Typhoon Emergency Centre 2773 2222 Water Fault Reports 2811 0788 Water Supplies Department 2824 5000

directory PETS & VETS Animal Behaviour Vet Practice 9618 2475 cynthia@petbehaviourhk.com www.petbehaviourhk.com Ferndale Kennels & Cattery 2792 4642 www.ferndalekennels.com Pacific Pets @ Stanley Veterinary Centre / Pet shop 2813 7979 info@pacificpets.com.hk Pets Central North Point Hospital 2811 8907 info@pets-central.com Stanley Veterinary Centre 2813 2030 info@stanleyvetcentre.com www.stanleyvvetcentre.com Vet2Pet 6999 1003 vet2pet@yahoo.com www.vet2pet.com.hk The Vet 88 Dr med. vet. Kerstin Meyer 93886756 thevet88@gmail.com

REAL-ESTATE AND HOTELS Habitat Property Limited 2869 9069 info@habitat-property.com www.habitat-property.com Jones Lang LaSalle 2846 5000 www.joneslanglasalle.com.hk The Telo’s Group LCC www.telosgroupllc.com Grand Hyatt Hong Kong 2956 1234 http://hongkong.grand.hyatt.com Le Meridien Cyberport Hotel 2980 7788 One Island South 2118 2992 cs@oneislandsouth.com The Arcade, Cyberport 3166 3111 arcade@cyberport.hk arcade.cyberport.hk

WELL-BEING Repulse Bay Family Practice info@veritas-medical.com Sabai Day Spa — Stanley 2104 0566 www.sabaidayspa.com Sense of Touch 2517 0939 ask@senseoftouchhk.com www.senseoftouch.com.hk Wellness & birth, pre & postnatal home care 9022 1779 www.wellnessandbirth.com info@wellnessandbirth.com

Food Delivery

TOYS, ACCESSORIES & KIDS' PARTIES

South Stream Seafood

Units 202-204, Lai Sun Yuen Long Centre, 27 Wang Yip St East, Yuen Long, N.T. Hong Kong 2555 6200 sh@south-stream-seafoods.com www.south-stream-seafoods.com Laithwaites Wine 3071 5085 info@laithwaiteswine.hk www.laithwaiteswine.hk Lucy's 2813 9055 Prompt (international Buffet) 2980-47417 prompt.LMC@lemeridien.com www.lemeridien.com/hongkong Restaurant & Bar Umami (Japanese) 2980 47406 www.lemeridien.com/hongkong Saffron Bakery 2813 0270 (Stanley) 2812 2016 (Repulse Bay) 2818 3233 (The Peak) Organic Experience Management Group 2981 2888 www.organicxp.com

SOCIAL, SPORTS & EQUIPMENT

Apple & Pie Ltd.

Unit# 206, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong (near Ocean Park) 3102 0853 | info@appleandpie.com www.appleandpie.com Bouncy Kids 9228 5772 cs@bouncykids.hk www.bouncykids.hk Bumps to Babes 2552 5000 (Ap Lei Chau Main Store) 2522 7112 (Pedder Building Branch) www.bumpstobabes.com Cosmo Beebies 2905 1188 cosmo-beebies@byinvest.com www.cosmobeebies.com Hong Kong Toy Club 8216 3870 support@HongKongToyClub.com www.HongKongToyClub.com Le Petite Bazaar (Stanley) 2407 1892 contact@petit-bazaar.com www.facebook.com/petitbazaar HK BB Shop 2955 1899 UrbanDiscovery 2214 0011 challenge@urbandiscovery.asia

TRANSPORT SERVICES Weight Watcher

2813 0814 | tpaulsen@weightwatchers.com.hk www.weightwatchers.com.hk

Allegro Pilates Studio 6295 7881 info@pilatesinstanley.com www.pilatesinstanley.com Nonie Studio Ms Nonie Yung 2333 2027 / 5198 9903 Holistic Fitness & Therapy 9667 0940 nareshkumar62@hotmail.com www.holisticnaresh.com

OTHER SERVICES Truly Care Pest Control Services 2458 8378 info@trulycare.com.hk www.trulycare.com.hk Tai Pan Valet Shop tplhkc@netvigator.com

Webjet HK

Unit 1706, BEA Tower, Millennium City 5, 418 Kwun Tong Road, Kwun Tong, Kln, Hong Kong 2313 9779 Onlinetravel@webjet.com.hk www.webjet.com.hk

Lee Gardens Showroom: Shop B01 & G01, Lee Gardens Two, 28 Yun Ping Road, Causeway Bay Tel: (852) 2764 6919 | www.zungfu.com

Expert-Transport & Relocations Warehouse 2566 4799 www.expertmover.hk Island Junks 2877 5222 info@islandjunks.com.hk www.islandjunks.com.hk Scorpion RIBS Hong Kong 2511 8337 scorpionribshk@gmail.com www.scorpionribs.com

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 63

distribution Southside magazine continues to extend its reach in our community, here is the latest in distribution news.

Pok Fu Lam

The Peak

- Kellet School - Kennedy School - Stanley Ho Sports Centre - Sunshine House Chi Fu - Sunshine House Pokfulam - Woodland Pokfulam Pre-School - Woodland Tree House

- Cafe Deco The Peak - Delifrance - German Swiss International School - Haagen-Dazs - Oliver’s Super Sandwiches - Pho Yummee - Starbucks - Sunshine House The Peak - The Peak Lookout Café - Villa Verde - Woodland Pre-School The Peak

Cyberport - Bagiou Villas - Bel-Air Clubhouse - Cyberport Arcade - GoGym - International (Park N Shop) - Kosmo Plus Wellness Cafe - Le Meridien Hotel Cyberport - Oh Sushi & Tappas - Om World - Scenic Villas - Starbucks - Thaima-V - Tutti Bar & Restaurantt

Aberdeen - Aberdeen Marina Club - Burnt Orange - Elect Sekki - Elite Personal Training - Flex Studio - Hong Kong Country Club - Mirth - Leader Golf Training Centre - One Island South - Ovolo, Shek Pai Wan - Park N Shop - Singapore International School - Sure Steps - Top Deck - Wicka Designs - Woodland Harbourside Pre-School

Manhattan Tower This exclusive residential building, tucked away in a lush country park setting, houses some of the most stunning apartments on the Southside.

All 40 units are 2,400 square feet with fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms, teak floors and best of all, large balconies to soak up the breathtaking views of Deep Water Bay and the South China Sea. Southside Magazine is now conveniently placed at the Manhattan Tower reception.

Tai Tam / Shek O

- American Club - Beach Front Kiosk - Ben’s Garden - Black Sheep - Craigengower Cricket Club - Fusion (Park'N Shop) - Happy Garden Restaurant - Hong Kong Cricket Club - Hong Kong International School - Hong Kong Parkview Resort & Spa - Hong Kong Parkview Suites - Lulu Shop - Pacific View Residential Clubhouse - PIPS Kindergarten Pok Fu Lam - Redhill Clubhouse Chi Fu The Peak - Shek O Chinese & Thai Restaurant Parkview - Shining Stone Restaurant Tai Tam Cyberport Shouson Hill - Soma Spa Big Wave Bay - Sunshine House Tai Tam Aberdeen Bel-Air Deep Water Bay - Wellcome, Red Hill Plaza - Woodland Tai Tam Montessori Wong Chuk Hang Pre-School Repulse Bay Red Hill Ap Lei Chau

The Manhattan Chung Hom Kok

Shek O

Larvotto Due to popular demand, we’ve increased distribution to Larvotto by 30%. This marine-themed luxury residential complex offers unmatched waterfront views and is only 5 minutes from upscale shopping at Horizon Plaza.

Southside Magazine can be found at the Larvotto clubhouse on the coffee tables of many of its residents.

Ap Lei Chau - Bumps to Babes - Chapin House - Everything Under The Sun - Homestyle - Indigo - Indigo Kids - Indigo Outlet - Larvotto - Limestone Wine & Spirits - Little Picasso Studio - Okooko - Pacific Gourmet - Tequila Kola - Shambala Cafe - Tree - Zense

64 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

Stanley

Stanley One Island South Located in the elegant surrounding of Wong Chuk Hang, this highly prestigious office building with spacious design offers a fresh new world of unlimited potential for work, life and innovation.

One Island South is ideally located with inspiring sea views of Deep Water Bay and lush greenery of Shouson Hill.

Employees at One Island South can now find Southside Magazine located at the lobby.

Deep Water Bay - Beach Club - Coco Thai - Crown Wine Cellars - Hong Kong Country Club - Park N Shop

Repulse Bay - Anastassia’s Art House - Bauhinia Beach Club - Bayley & Jackson Dental Surgeons - HS Modern Art - Ice Cream Gallery - Indigo - Manhattan Tower - Sense of Touch - Southside Kindergarten - OT & P - South Bay Beach Club - Spices - The Club - The Lily - The Somerset - The Verandah - Woodland Beachside Pre-School - The Woodland Montessori Pre-School Repulse Bay

- Boathouse - Cafe De Paris - Chez Patrick - Cheers Real Estate Limited - Classifieds - Haagen Dazs - Lucy’s - Lucy’s on the Front - Mijas - Pickled Pelican - Pizza Express - Ricacorp Properties - Rocksalt - Saigon in Stanley - Smuggler’s Inn - Spiaggia - Stan Cafe - Stanley Main Street Bar & Cafe - Stanley Pet Centre - Starbucks - Taste Supermarket - Watson’s Wine - Wildfire

where to find us

Redhill Peninsula

The Manhattan

Pacific View

Hong Kong Parkview

Join our community Want Southside Magazine in your residential building’s reception or clubhouse? Want to distribute Southside Magazine in your restaurant or store?

The Repulse Bay

Bel-Air

It’s easy as pie and best of all, completely free of charge.

Send all enquiries to vip@southside.hk or call (852) 2776 2772

Hey Mr. Postman Join our free mailing service to have your copy of Southside Magazine delivered straight to your mailbox. It’s Free and exclusive for residents living in Southside or the Peak.

Sign up here www.southside.hk/subscribe

Cyberport Arcade

Le Meridien Cyberport

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 65

my southside

Gabriella Zavatti A round with the founder of Zavva pre-mixed shooters.

What gave you the idea for Zavva?

I grew up in Hong Kong, but when I came back after studying at University in Melbourne I noticed the beverage selection in retail stores had remained almost unchanged. There was a gap in the market. There was a wide selection of beer, wine and long drinks, but nothing small, compact and with a kick. We wanted to introduce a product for all ages, and something Hong Kong could call their own – a real Hong Kong brand.

What advice would you give someone planning a start-up company?

Hong Kong is a great place to start a business.

It has a free-market environment and a business-friendly atmosphere with very good infrastructure. Also the government gives excellent support through the HK Trade Development Council and Invest HK. Talk to everyone, pick their brains, ask for advice or feedback, bounce ideas around and be open to tweaking your initial plans and accepting constructive criticism.

66 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

What’s your idea of a good night out?

My ideal night involves a good meal and drinks with friends, when no one is in a rush to get to the next party or event, but where the night just evolves. Unplanned nights always seem to be the best. Many of my nights out start with dinner on Southside, at friends’ houses or restaurants, but we often end up in Central.

What made you move to Southside?

My family has always been on the Southside – this is where I grew up, went to school, and feel most at home. I love how we are close to Central but far enough to “escape” the hustle and bustle while being immersed in nature.

Any favourite restaurants?

On the Southside, I enjoy Spices for its selection of dishes. In town, Grappa’s never disappoints for a hearty casual Italian meal – the minestrone soup is the best. For special occasions, I like Otto e Mezzo. I always order the burrata cheese ravioli with eggplant.

How do you spend your down time?

What I love about living on Southside is its accessibility to diverse trails and hikes – its mixture of mountains, hills and beaches. They are a great way to clear the mind.

Any favourite spas?

As the Zavva office is in Central, it’s easier for me to fit in spa treatments around the area.

I have been going to the Mandarin Oriental for years for waxing. For nails, Fingertrix in Melbourne Plaza – one of the first salons in Hong Kong – is great.

How would you like to see Southside develop?

I would like to see more alfresco dining. It’s a shame some of the beach bars have shut – they were a great asset. There is a lot of potential to develop the outdoor dining scene in Aberdeen, particularly now with the MTR being constructed.