G re at er B ay A re a
城市漫步 粤港澳大 湾区英文 版 12 月份
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that's guangzhou
DECEMBER 2020
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CHINA YEAR IN REVIEW
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《城市漫步》粤港澳大湾区 英文月刊
主管单位 : 中华人民共和国国务院新闻办公室 Supervised by the State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China 主办单位 : 五洲传播出版社 地址 : 北京西城月坛北街 26 号恒华国际商务中心南楼 11 层文化交流中心 11th Floor South Building, Henghua lnternational Business Center, 26 Yuetan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing http://www.cicc.org.cn 社长 President: 董青 Dong Qing 期刊部负责人 Supervisor of Magazine Department: 付平 Fu Ping 编辑 Editor: 朱莉莉 Zhu Lili
发行 Circulation: 李若琳 Li Ruolin
Editor-in-Chief Ryan Gandolfo 甘德发 Arts and Lifestyle Editor Phoebe Kut 吉蓁蓁 Travel Editor Sophie Steiner Contributors Rakini Bergundy, Matthew Bossons, Joshua Cawthorpe, Larold Davidson, Lindsey Fine Photo Contributors Freepix (Guilin), Laurian Ghinitoiu (Woodhouse Hotel)
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Distribution across China: 200,000 copies
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 1
Editor’s Note
DECEMBER 2020
This year has flown by, and I’m guessing for you as well. In 2020, I had planned on seeing a good friend in Japan, meeting up with my brother and sister-in-law in Thailand and introducing my mom to my current hometown of Guangzhou. COVID-19 had another agenda, and my plans, like many of yours, were blown into oblivion.
In our final issue of the year, we recall the highs and lows of 2020. Our editorial team covers a
plethora of topics as we go over funny, depressing and unbelievable events of the past year. Flip to our cover story starting on page 38.
Elsewhere in the magazine, Mr. Ned Kelly speaks with Wu Jianping about Pudong’s fascinating rise
over the past 30 years (pages 10-13). We also share with you a sneak peek of our latest issue of Explore
China with beautiful Guilin (pages 26-30). Our up-and-coming Guangzhou-based writer
Joshua Cawthorpe dives into the serious topic of mental health issues in China. (Special thanks to Dr. Alfred Chambers for agreeing to provide his expert opinion on the matter.)
We here at That’s wish you a great end to this unforgettable year. And, we look forward to a far less eventful 2021. Best,
Ryan Gandolfo Editor-in-Chief
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2 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
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THE WRAP
6 THE NATION
14 ARTS & LIFE
7 COURTING CANTON
World’s largest NBA store opens in Guangzhou.
15 CACIEN An interview with the indie-pop songstress.
10 PUDONG’S PROGRESS
18 GIVE IT AWAY
Photographer Wu Jianping on capturing 30 years of change.
Eleven quaint gift ideas from local boutiques.
Founder of Skywells.
32 BUSINESS & TECH
26 GO GUILIN
33 JEFFREY WILSON
22 TRAVEL 23 ED GAWNE
The gift of green.
Counsel, JunHe LLP.
36 SPENDING BIG
China’s top 10 cities with strong consumption.
4 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
38 COVER STORY 2020 CHINA’S YEAR IN REVIEW
48 FAMILY 49 YULIA YAN Executive Director of Shanghai Sunrise Charity. 52 MENDING MENTAL HEALTH
The PRC’s 90 million-person problem.
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 5
THE NATION Pudong’s Progress
Photographer Wu Jianping on Capturing 30 Years of Change p10
Who am I? P8
6 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
2020 Chinese Slang P9
CHINA CURRENTS
COURTING CANTON
World’s Largest NBA Store Opens in Guangzhou By Ryan Gandolfo
S
pend a day walking the streets of Guangzhou, and you’ll see Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, Lebron James and Brian Scalabrine jerseys worn with pride. (Okay, maybe a few less Scalabrine jerseys.) It’s part of the big basketball culture in Guangzhou and the Greater Bay Area (GBA) that’s led to a growing number of NBA fans in the region. And now, there’s a brand new store that gives fans the ultimate NBA experience – aside from going to a game, of course. Last month, the NBA’s largest flagship store in the world opened in Guangzhou’s Yuexiu district. The store was launched in partnership with the NBA, Top Sports and Nike. The store celebrated its opening ceremony with speeches from Wayne Chang, NBA China’s chief financial officer, as well as a recorded video message from former NBA all-star and current CBA coach Stephon Marbury, currently working in Beijing. “NBA Guangzhou Flagship Store will definitely be the ideal place for every fan to buy all the NBA products they want, a variety of NBA series and commemorative merchandise,” said Marbury, who mentioned he plans on visiting Canton to check out the store.
An autographed Marbury Timberwolves jersey will be on display in the store, along with memorabilia from several other NBA all-stars and Hall of Famers. The three-story venue covers 2,680 square meters and is split into different sections, including athletic wear on the first floor, a museum-like collection of NBA memorabilia (worth a visit) and customized apparel and gifts on the third floor. In addition to selling NBA-related products, the shop has plans to give NBA fans a better overall experience with VR basketball activities and a massive 5-meter screen for fans to catch NBA games in the upcoming season. While we can’t confirm anything, the shop opening could be a good sign for an NBA game in Guangzhou in the near future... For more China news, scan the QR code below:
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 7
THE BUZZ RANDOM NUMBER
DON’T YOU KNOW WHO I AM?
5,000
Chef Wang Gang
… is the number of foreign nationals who have been busted for illegally crossing China’s borders so far in 2020. As you can imagine, it’s not easy getting into any country given the current state of world affairs, with China border authorities handling more than 700 illegal bordercrossing cases since the start of the year. According to Xinhua, the crackdown on illegal border crossings has been effective in halting inbound COVID-19 cases via illegal entry channels. Yin Chengji, deputy head of the administration, said at a press conference last month that China has closed 46 land points of entry and 66 border crossings since the start of the epidemic.
The internet celebrity chef from Sichuan faced backlash from viewers last month after being accused of posting a politically charged cooking tutorial (we know, it’s as crazy as it sounds). Known for clear-cut and precise cooking videos of Chinese cuisine, Chef Wang posted a fried rice tutorial in late October which happened to fall on the same day as the death anniversary of Mao Anying, Chairman Mao’s eldest son. According to Sup China, Mao Jr. “broke air defense protocols and cooked egg fried rice in the Chinese HQ” during the Korean war, which compromised his position and led to a US bombing that ended up taking his life. Some netizens accused Chef Wang of 辱华 (disgracing the country) because of the timing of the video. Chef Wang responded to the criticism by saying he apologized if he offended anyone.
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
“This [incoming] president seems more normal and comfortable dealing with people than a mad king” said one Weibo user after news outlets projected that former Vice President Joe Biden had beaten incumbent President Donald Trump in early November. The Chinese internet was glued to the election outcome, garnering nearly 13 billion views for the Weibo hashtag ‘US Election’ (＃美国大选＃). While netizens debated what a new US president could mean for US-China relations, one person had an optimistic outlook, tweeting a line that read, “If Biden is elected, I am really sure that relations between China and the US are gonna be normalized. Because Beijing has the ForBiden City.” 8 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
E D I T O R @ T H AT S M A G S . C O M
MANDARIN MUMBLES
2020 Chinese Slang
W
ith 2020 winding down, we decided to compile some Mandarin slang phrases and euphemisms that rose to popularity – according to those we asked – this year. If you are looking for some witty one liners to impress your local friends, then look no further… To learn more fun phrases, scan the QR code:
Go get ’em 盘他
Pán tā
I’m jealous 我酸了
Wǒ suānle
Loosely meaning ‘go collect them’, pan ta is a versatile phrase that has different contextual meaning. For instance, if you are angry at someone then you can instruct your goons to go and beat them up by saying pan ta. However, if your friend is expressing interest in a good looking man or woman then you can encourage your friend to go talk to them by using the same phrase.
Suan means sour and, like the other phrase for jealousy chicu (eat vinegar), you can use this verb to express that you are jealous of someone or tired of their boasting.
I saw it with my own eyes 确认过眼神
Quèrènguò yǎnshén Photo cheater 照骗
Zhào piàn
This phrase was made popular by famous Chinese singer JJ Lin (林俊杰) and it means ‘confirmed it with my own eyes’. It is often used for things that cannot be physically seen, but more as a way of expressing one’s certainty.
You probably get the point from the English translation, but this hilarious phrase targets individuals who go overboard on selfie edit apps. Kind of like when Candy from sales posts a photo with her eyes three times larger than how they look at the office. It’s not surgery; it’s software.
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ongsi No. 78 Boutique Apartment is located close to Dongsi Station (Line 5) and Wangfujing Commercial District and is within walking distance of the Palace Museum.It is also close to political, economic and commercial landmarks such as the CBD International Trade Center, the Embassy District and Financial Street. The 14 units of exquisitely designed Chineseand Western-style apartments are simple and pleasant and show the blended style. Spacious studio, one-bedroom suites and a two-bedroom penthouse, with a comfortable layout, can meet the diverse needs of different people. > No.78 Dongsi Sitiao, Dongcheng District 东城区东四 四条 78 号 (010-8406 1099)
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 9
T H E N AT I O N | F E A T U R E
A group of children playing football on South Yincheng Road, which was still a construction site, 1997.
PUDONG’S PROGRESS Photographer Wu Jianping on Capturing 30 Years of Change By Ned Kelly
10 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
F E A T U R E | T H E N AT I O N
A bird’s-eye view from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, 1997.
A mid-summer recreation.
Last month marked the 30th anniversary of the central government proclamation that instigated the openingup and development of Shanghai’s Pudong. Photographer Wu Jianping captured the district as it transformed from a shantytown into a glass and steel world finance, trade and tech hub. We sat down with him to hear his story.
Dongning Road, 1998. WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 11
T H E N AT I O N | F E A T U R E
Chamber pots were used for
Packing up. Dongning Road,
thousands of years in China.
2000.
They were commonly used in Shanghai, which was divided into social classes. One indication of class distinction is whether a family had a flush toilet. Renji Road, 1997.
W
u Jianping fell in love with photography before he even owned a camera. “I was born in 1958 in a small mountain village in western Zhejiang province, in an ordinary plumber’s family,” Wu explains. “My village was submerged by an artificial lake created by a hydropower station, and my first job was on the construction of the power station, blacksmithing, forging track pins and fasteners for bulldozers, excavators and dump trucks.” With the money he made, Wu would travel to Hangzhou and Shanghai, visiting bookstores and buying photography books and picture albums. “However, due to economic constraints, I could not afford a camera. That was, until 1987. My younger brother, who studied in Germany, returned to China and gave me a high-end Minolta 300 camera, plus a 28-80mm zoom lens. My life as a photographer was born.” Fast forward a decade to June 1997 and a friend invited Wu to a small gathering in Shanghai. After lunch, they visited the Oriental Pearl Tower. “When I went up the tower, I was surprised to see that, among the gradually expanding traffic avenues and the high-rise buildings rising from the ground, there remained a large number of blackening old houses, right beneath my feet. “I preferred photographic themes of human social order, so was fascinated by this shantytown, a sea of old-style homes and communities waiting to be torn down. And all entirely invisible if you were looking over from the Bund and Puxi. I secretly thought that it should be preserved in photos.” The very next day, Wu made his way back over the river to the shantytown. One of the first people he encountered was a middle-aged woman with a pushcart piled high with chamber pots, toilet brush in hand. Flush toilets were unheard of in the old houses; the best a resident could hope for was to be able to afford to pay someone else to wash their wooden pot.
12 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
People took baths in the open in summer because their homes were too small and ill-equiped. Bailianjing, 2006.
F E A T U R E | T H E N AT I O N
A bird’s-eye view of Dongchang Road, Dongning Road and Lannidu Road from Jin Mao Tower, which was still under construction, 1998.
“She was unsure of me at first, and it took several visits before she opened up,” Wu says. “I went on to learn from her that she had a mentally disabled child and, with her family entirely reliant on her income from scrubbing the pots, would work through wind and rain.” As Wu returned to the neighborhood, more and more residents got to know him, striking up conversations, telling him their stories and inviting him in for a meal or even to stay the night. “Most people understood the purpose and intention of my shooting and were very cooperative and supportive, taking the initiative to help me and provide me with some assistance.” The resulting photos are an intimate portrait of an otherwise forgotten Pudong. “I consider my subject the ‘Pudong Family,’” Wu says of the series. “If you compare it to a person, then each photo is like an organ or a limb of the human body. Each image is an important part of making up the whole.” There were mixed emotions and varied responses from the residence to the changes taking place. “Of the people I encountered, most accepted the demolition and relocation; the majority were very happy to be moving to a modern apartment with running water and plumbing. “Then there were those – many of them elderly people – who would get nostalgic and say they would miss their communities and were unwilling to leave. Others thought that, as the land would have a higher price in the future, they would never be able to afford to return to their home neighborhood.” As for Wu, while he felt it was important to document the transition, he viewed the change as progress. “As a Chinese [person], I always hope that my country will develop and get better and better, and the lives of the people will become happier and happier. Most ordinary people understood and supported the government’s various policies and measures to develop and open Pudong.” That said, Wu is quick to pay tribute to the residents of a now-vanished Pudong who, when they needed to cross the river, would say they were “going to Shanghai,” as they didn’t consider themselves actual residents of the city. “What impressed me most about Pudong was not its material development, but the way people prevailed over difficult living conditions and daily struggles,” says Wu. “They were knowledgeable, open-minded and patient, and I was moved by their toughness, their generosity and their hopefulness. Wu remembers being on the ferry over from Puxi one day and asking an ordinary Pudong resident what he thought of the development. “He spread his arm across, presenting the shiny new skyscrapers: ‘If Pudong wasn’t developed, I’d still be a country bumpkin,’ he joked. ‘This is better.’” Wu Jianping’s book The People of Pudong and his images are for sale for as little as RMB500, framed and with free delivery in China. For more information scan the QR code:
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 13
ARTS & LIFE Hospitality Heroes
The Winners from the That's 2020 Hospitality Awards, Plus Photos p20
Covet P16
14 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
City Snapshot P17
SPOTLIGHT
CACIEN Musician
Interview by Phoebe Kut
Cacien is a 21-year-old musician originally from Shenzhen whose jazzy pop sound and Y2K aesthetics have caught the attention of large music labels. Due to the pandemic, she recently relocated to Shanghai from New York, where she was studying. Since her arrival in the ’Hai, she has been steadily gaining fans after posting covers on Chinese social media. We catch up with the budding artist to see what she’s working on. How did you get into music? I first got into music at an early age. In kindergarten, I learned how to play the keyboard, and later on, I joined the school choir and started singing. Then, in middle school, I began to cover different pop songs. I’ve produced about 10 cover videos and have posted them on various platforms like Youku and Tencent Video. What is the meaning behind your name? Is it your actual name or stage name? I love it when people ask me about this – my full name in Mandarin is Chen Sixian; in Cantonese it’s Can Xihan. But when transliterated, it sounds like ‘Cacien.’ So, it is my stage name and actual name expressed in a different form. How would you describe your sound? Cute, comfy, charismatic and sexy. Congrats on recently dropping ‘辣辣辣 Spiiicy’ Could you tell us more about the inspiration for the song, or the meaning behind it?
“The spiciest girl I know is my mom” The inspiration for the song is pretty random. One day I was talking to my girlfriend about songwriting. She said, “Why don’t you write about something else rather than romantic relationships?” I thought about it and came up with spicy food because it has always been my can’t-live-without food. That’s how ‘Spiiicy’ was born. Spicy food has been my favorite since I was little. As I grew up, I began to identify myself as a ‘spicy girl,’ and after studying abroad, I felt happy and grateful whenever I met people who also loved spicy food. For me, the definition of a spicy girl is someone who is confident, unique, fearless and sanguine. Rather than seeing spicy as an adjective, it is more of an attitude. That’s the more important message I’d like to deliver through ‘Spiiicy,’ besides my love for spicy food: Anyone with a ‘spicy’ attitude can be a spicy girl. Who is the ‘spiciest’ girl you know? The spiciest girl I know is my mom. She encourages me in anything that I’d like to achieve. She is also a very confident, strong woman who has always inspired me. She totally has that spicy attitude. Who inspired your musical style, and who is your favorite musician?
My musical style transitions from C-pop to indie pop. Recently, I have had a huge crush on Doja Cat not because of her hit songs but because of her voice and her spicy attitude. I also love Rei Ami, Mavis Fan, 9m88 and Leo王. Where are most of your fans based? Most of my fans are based in China because I’ve been on Douyin posting my covers. Have you ever thought about joining competition shows like Produce 101 创 造营or Youth With You 青春有你?
I have thought about joining competition shows for solo artists but not for girl groups. I can barely imagine myself in a girl group. I wouldn’t be able to sing the whole song, and I’d have to be on a stage with several other girls… I prefer being on a stage by myself. We heard you recently signed with a prominent label. What can we expect in the future? Yes I have! Stay tuned; an album is on the way. > Search ’卡西恩Cacien’ on Chinese music platforms and ‘Cacien’ on Spotify and YouTube to hear her music.
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 15
STYLE RADAR OVERHEARD
Prohibition of TikTok transactions “has been enjoined and will not go into effect, pending further legal developments”
Wrote the US Commerce Department on the Federal Register in regards to the ongoing TikTok saga. Despite an original ban set for November 12, TikTok (not surprisingly) remains operational. Al Jazeera reported that the US Court of Appeals in Washington DC set new dates of December 14 and 28 for ByteDance and the Trump administration to file new motions and documents with the case. The Trump administration had originally set the November deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok’s US operations. As a result, the Chinese company agreed on a deal to divest part of TikTok to Oracle and Walmart, but it was never finalized. Multiple media outlets have cited that the order was perhaps overshadowed by the 2020 US Election, which President Trump lost in a contentious race to Democratic candidate Joe Biden. ByteDance also filed a petition in mid-November claiming that the Trump administration’s order and a US agency finding that TikTok posed a security threat were unlawful and violated rights under the US Constitution, according to Reuters.
16 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
COVET
Pure Chinese Honey ADHD (Art Direction High Definition) is a Shanghai art project and clothing brand which was established in 2018. Everyone knows the term ‘American Sweetheart’, but why not ‘Pure Chinese Honey’? China has more than 5,000 years of history and ADHD wants to inspire new generations to proudly stand up for their culture. The design is inspired by Chinese brand Wasp Queen’s nostalgic honey syrup packaging from the ’80s and ’90s. Our favorite items from the line include the beanie, sweatshirt and socks. > Sweatshirt retails for RMB399. Scan the QR code with Taobao to shop.
UNDER THE LENS
Fruit Sister Returns
After being denied entry into China three years ago for a Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, Katy Perry is back – well, virtually anyway. Perry, also known as Fruit Sister among Chinese fans, gave a virtual performance at this year’s star-studded Single’s Day Gala at Shanghai’s Mercedes-Benz Arena. The new mother sang hits like ‘Never Really Over,’ ‘Not the End of the World’ and ‘Roar.’ She posted the performance to her Weibo account and fans gushed “Mom, you are so beautiful!” and “Mom, I’ll wait for you!”
E D I T O R @ T H AT S M A G S . C O M
CITY SNAPSHOT
@youaaaaandme Most photographers these days on social media are men capturing cityscapes and buildings (at least in China). Yoomi, a female South Korean travel enthusiast currently based in Beijing, wants to challenge the norm. She tells us that photography is a passion that started way back in middle school. She’s glad to see more female photographers emerging online, giving women space to create and showcase what they love. She says, “I experimented with a lot of different styles. Nowadays, I am very particular in composition – that is key in what I usually shoot. I think of it this way: Two people are traveling to the same place, but could observe and experience it in totally different ways. “This is the case for my Chongqing photograph, which was taken in a very touristy and iconic location, Hongya Cave. There are thousands of pictures of this place already, but if you have your style, you know how to ‘make it yours.’ “As hundreds of tourists were taking pictures that evening, I was trying to figure out how and where to take it. I positioned my tripod on the side of the road and took a few shots with the long exposure, and I noticed the cars passing by, creating this interesting light streak. I immediately knew I wanted the cars’ headlights to create movement in the frame for a more chaotic lighting look for this already chaotic place. Chongqing has been one of the coolest and most interesting cities I have ever visited. I would gladly go back to take pictures at the same place with a new perspective.” > For more of Yoomi’s work follow @youaaaaandme on Instagram.
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 17
GIVE IT AWAY ARTS & LIFE | GIF T GUIDE
12 Quaint Gift Ideas from Local Boutiques Compiled by Rakini Bergundy
I
t seems there’s always an occasion for gift giving. After this year’s seemingly endless Single’s Day, Christmas is just around the corner! Here we highlight some lovely gift options from local designers.
CHAOCHA The ‘Nice to Meet You’ set includes 10 different varieties of premium loose leaf teas, including white, oolong, black and pu’er. RMB108
Scan the QR code to purchase.
Boomi Nose Buzz This aromatherapy capsule comes in six scents and is great for headaches, nausea, the office, or anytime you need some natural revitalization. RMB69.90 Scan the QR code with Taobao to purchase.
18 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
Boomi will have 12 days of Christmas gift sets starting on December 9. There will be a different deal everyday and gifts for every order. For the first day, every order will receive plantable Christmas cards. RMB188-248
Scan the QR code to purchase.
GIF T GUIDE| ARTS & LIFE
Syitren A portable record player which comes in seven colors. RMB790
Scan with the Taobao app to purchase.
Sanxia
LUUNA naturals
Look to Sanxia for embellished traditional boxes and steamers, which are filled with little surprises like candles and soaps inside. This Shanghaibased brand’s profits are donated back to an association that assists disabled and homeless people. RMB130-300
LUUNA naturals’ mission is to ensure everyone has access to toxin and plastic-free period care unhindered by shame, taboos and misconceptions about their bodies. RMB270
Scan the QR code to purchase.
Scan the QR code to purchase.
Kadhak Organics Beeziro Beeziro’s beeswax food wrap is a zero waste and sustainable alternative to single-use plastic wraps. RMB100 for a standard set
Scan the QR code to purchase.
Pinyin Press These dumpling salt and pepper shakers are handmade in Jingdezhen, a city known for its exquisite porcelain and pottery. The shakers won the Hong Kong Smart Gifts Design Award in 2016 and come packaged in a bamboo steamer. RMB200 Scan the QR code to purchase.
Kadhak was founded two years ago by a duo of Tibetan women. This handcrafted Yak Butter lip balm is infused with moisturizing yak butter and soothing Vitamin E. RMB78 Scan the QR code to purchase.
American Press
Okami Candles
The American Press produces an espresso-inspired cup akin to an Americano which is less bitter, more balanced and fruitier than the French press. RMB495
Soy wax wood wick candle. Get it personalized with a nickname or any phrase under 15 characters. RMB70
Search 汉焙咖啡工坊 on Mini Programs, then 咖啡器皿.
Add pbj3635 on WeChat to purchase. Look up @okamicandles on Instagram.
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 19
ARTS & LIFE | HOSPI TAL I T Y
HOSPITALITY HEROES The Big Winners from the That’s 2020 Hospitality Awards, Plus Photos
O
n November 19, with an audience of 130 distinguished hospitality industry guests, Urbanatomy – JY International Cultural Communications held its fourth annual That’s Hospitality Awards at Sheraton Shenzhen Nanshan. Launched in 2017 at the W Shanghai on the Bund, the That’s Hospitality Awards celebrates the very best of China’s diverse and world-class hospitality industry. In the following years, the luxurious awards ceremony has grown in stature, with leading industry figures from across China descending on The Peninsula, Beijing to see more than 100 hotels recognized for their excellence last year. The That’s 2020 Hospitality Awards would not have been the success that it was without the amazing support of the 200-plus sponsors, partners and media groups that got behind this year’s event. The full list of winners have also been published on thatsmags.com, That’s App and our official WeChat accounts and social media pages. Sponsored by Sheraton Shenzhen Nanshan, Voss and Fuchs Winery, we’re proud to announce that the That’s 2020 Hospitality Awards was one of our best yet, and we are certainly looking forward to next year’s celebration! Before we unveil the big winners from last night’s party, let’s check out some photos from the event! Now, without further ado, we give you the winners of the That’s 2020 Hospitality Awards:
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HOSPI TAL I T Y | ARTS & LIFE
New Hotel of the Year LUX* Tea Horse Road Stone Town Hilton Garden Inn Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center
Luxury Hotel of the Year (Central China) Niccolo Changsha
Luxury Hotel of the Year (South China) Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou
The Most Popular Serviced Apartment for Business Travelers
Most Influential Hotel of the Year
Jing An Kerry Residences
Pudong Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa
The Most Popular Serviced Apartment for Long-Stay Guests Sunac Xindi Residence-Shanghai, Xiangyi
Conrad Guangzhou The Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou Raffles Shenzhen Park Hyatt Shenzhen The Langham, Shenzhen
Luxury Hotel of the Year (East China) The PuLi Hotel and Spa
BVLGARI HOTEL SHANGHAI Bellagio By MGM Shanghai
Family-Friendly Hotel of the Year Yinrun Jinjiang Castle Hotel
Family-Friendly Serviced Apartment of the Year Fraser Place Binhai, Tianjin Kerry Parkside Residences
Jumeirah Nanjing
Luxury Hotel of the Year (North China)
Art Hotel of the Year
InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun
Outstanding Hotel Design of the Year
Wanda Reign on the Bund
The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin Waldorf Astoria Beijing
Business Hotel of the Year
The Sukhothai Shanghai
Park Hyatt Sanya Sunny Bay Resort
Jinling Hotel
Shenzhen Marriott Hotel Nanshan
Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai
The Middle House
Grand Hyatt Shenzhen
ICON LAB HOTEL SHENZHEN SHEKOU
MICE Hotel of the Year Sheraton Shenzhen Nanshan CORDIS, BEIJING CAPITAL AIRPORT InterContinental Foshan
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Shanghai
Themed and Featured Hotel of the Year Hard Rock Hotel Shenzhen
Center
VERSE Executive Apartments
W Suzhou
Getaway Hotel of the Year
Outstanding Hotel Swimming Pool of the Year
LUX* Tea Horse Road Benzilan Rosewood Sanya
Island Resort Hotel of the Year
Yanqi Island Pavilion Beijing (managed by Kempinski)
Urban Resort Hotel of the Year InterContinental Shenzhen
Health and Wellness Hotel of the Year LUX* Tea Horse Road Sangushui
Outstanding City View of the Year Hyatt On The Bund
The Most Highly Anticipated Hotel of the Year LUX* Chongzuo, Guangxi Resort & Villas Hilton Shenzhen World Exhibition &
Jing An Shangri-La, West Shanghai
Award for Excellent Service Residence
Convention Center Courtyard by Marriott Liuzhou Sanjiang
Hyatt Regency Shanghai Global Harbor
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
Outstanding Hotel Spa of the Year The Sukhothai Shanghai
Landmark Hotel of the Year
Renaissance Hangzhou Northeast Hotel
GTC RESIDENCE BEIJING
SHENZHEN ICON LAB HOTEL
Andaz Shenzhen Bay
The Most Popular Residence for Long Stay Guests
The Tower Apartments
Beijing Kerry Residence
Sofitel Shanghai Sheshan Oriental
Outstanding Service Hotel of the Year THE COLI HOTEL
JW Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao'an
The Most Popular Hotel Product of the Year VOSS Water
The Most Promising Hotel Management Company of the Year OCT International Hotel Management Co., Ltd (IHMC)
Excellent Hotel Owner Representative Conrad Guangzhou, Angelina Law
Award for Excellent Hotelier
Hyatt Regency Shanghai Global Harbor – Amane Karazawa The St. Regis Zhuhai – Krystal Huang Sheraton Shenzhen Nanshan – Edward Lam Hard Rock Hotel Shenzhen – Christoph Zbinden InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun – Florian S. Kuhn
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TRAVEL Go Guilin
The Gift of Green, p26
Hotel Highlight P24 22 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
Hot Spot P25
WANDERLUST
ED GAWNE Founder of Skywells Interview by Sophie Steiner
Following the opening of their first property, Wuyuan Skywells, England-native Edward Gawne and his Jiangxi-born wife Selina Liao, are working on their newest family project. The English country manor surrounded by lush tea fields on one side and a picturesque calm lake on the other is located just 5 kilometers away from Skywells. This 30-room venue is aimed at families, with two acres of garden, kayaks, a large library and Victorianstyle fireplaces in each building. We look forward to seeing it open to the public this month. What is the name of the new venue and tell us more about the space? Victoria House – an English country manor in the Wuyuan countryside. We are blessed to have a beautiful site – flanked by rolling Qing Dynasty-era tea fields to the back and a wide river bend to the front. Wuyuan used to be a 10 hour-plus bus journey, and now it takes under three hours by train, direct from Shanghai Hongqiao with a 20-minute cab at the other end. Our focus will be very much on families – everyone is welcome, of course, but we want to create a space where parents feel their kids are allowed to charge around and have fun, without having to stress too much about disturbing the other guests. What was the inspiration for creating this new property? Becoming a father! I have dreamed of a beautiful house and gardens to raise my growing family in the English tradition and to share with our guests. The Gawne clan made some money in leather about 100 years ago, and the last of this trickled its way into Great Aunty Joy’s big house on the hill in Devon, where I used to spend my summer holidays as a child. Playing games in the garden, exploring hedgerows and racing my brother around the various staircases was a very different experience compared with Chinese apartment life, and one I loathe to give up for my children. This focus on what we leave behind for the next generation becomes more acute once you have kids.
“Lawns are to be jumped around and played on, not just to sit in the back of photos” How is this property different from others in the area? We are building an English country manor in the Chinese countryside – but it’s still important that the building ‘makes sense’ in the context of where it is. This comes down to bespoke, thought-through design. Everything is capped at three floors in height – in the English tradition, elegant buildings are wide and long but not tall. A lot of English country house design features were stolen by wealthy industrialists from their travels around the globe – the original tuhao (土豪). Look out for a Crow-stepped gable, sweeping spiral staircases, a double-height library, log burning stoves and a sun loggia. Some things we just needed to import where we couldn’t find the quality or style locally that we need. Quality timber in Huzhou, for example, is an absolute gem, providing our hardwood floors. The treatment and cut of wood in the West just look different from what you’d find in China in small, different ways that are hard to describe, but that still makes a difference. Typical Wuyuan houses are white with black roofs and have fabulous wood carvings within, so we are liable to stick out a fair bit – but tucked away in the hills, we won’t ruin any traditional Hui vistas. What are you most excited for guests to experience? A proper garden lawn! The feeling of grass between your toes, I believe, is good for the soul, and a world away from the sterile apartment life that dominates Chinese cities. It takes a lot of soil treatment, drain-
age, nutrients and, most importantly, love and care to raise a lawn in southern China. Lawns are to be jumped around and played on, not just to sit in the back of photos. How will this new space differentiate itself from Skywells and other boutique or niche architecture design hotels around China? We will be living there ourselves with our family – five minutes up the road from Skywells, and spreading our time between the two. We are lucky to have the guidance of +1 Design Studio in Shanghai to hold our hands through the process, from a dream in our heads to a real building on a hill. Our theme is very much English Country House – which, let’s be honest, has a lot of naff imitations around China – but I believe this must be one of the first in modern China designed and built by an Englishman for his family. Everything in our houses is real – if there’s a fireplace, we burn wood in it, a bottle of whisky is for drinking, and the library is full of real books to read. A friend described Chinese design to me as like making a film set – everything is a cheap, fake veneer that looks good in photos. I stayed in a hotel with a fake pool last year, literally to pose next to. This is the antithesis of how we do things. This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity. Contact frontdesk@wuyuanskywells.com for more information and reservations.
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ITCHY FEET ROLLER COASTER
MILE HIGH
Domestic Dominance
Coronavirus Comeback?
China’s domestic tourism is expected to fully recover by year end after recent holidays helped propel travel in many provinces across the country. Over 637 million domestic trips were made during the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, reported China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, which is roughly 80% of the trips made during that same time period last year, on a comparable basis. Both self-guided tours and medium- to high-end leisure trips have seen the greatest recovery with increased positive growth expected throughout 2020. Additionally, travel trends, like staycations – where the hotel itself is the destination – have greatly increased. The ministry is also reporting that tourism revenue could reach nearly RMB467 billion in 2020, about 70% of the revenue gained in that same time period in 2019. As the virus continues to spread overseas, Chinese travelers are choosing to travel locally more than ever.
Last month, there were a number of new COVID-19 cases reported across China, including a case in Anhui province of a Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) baggage handler who traveled back to his home county after contracting the disease. Another case was reported in Tianjin, where a driver tested positive after handling frozen food packaging that contained the virus. In Yunnan, two asymptomatic cases were confirmed, which led to the suspension of school in the town of Mengding. Chinese heath authorities have shown a great effort in contact tracing and testing amid potential new COVID-19 clusters. Stay tuned to thatsmags.com for any important updates on the COVID-19 situation in the PRC.
HOSPITALITY HIGHLIGHT
Woodhouse Hotel Located in the remote village of Tuanjie in Guizhou province, Woodhouse Hotel started as an agricultural tourism project in Guizhou led by Shanghai-based architectural firm ZJJZ. The 10 single-story timber cabins that line the village’s hillside act as the first project of many to be carried out under the government’s new policy to help assuage rural poverty through environmentally friendly tourism. Inspired by the natural surroundings, the wood houses harmonize with the landscape through their rustic design style that uses three basic geometric forms. Windows are cut out differently in each house according to directional orientation to create visually appealing layers in the surrounding natural landscape. Each cabin is built atop an elevated steel platform to protect the original rock formations, and all timber was charred on-site to minimize costs and site damage. 24 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
E D I T O R @ T H AT S M A G S . C O M
HOT SPOT
Zamami Island
O
nly a 50-minute express ferry ride from the southern Japanese island of Okinawa, Zamami island is known for its stunning scenery and ‘Kerama Blue,’ a unique color of water originating in the neighboring Kerama Islands. In Zamami, visitors can partake in a plethora of marine activities year-round or simply dig their toes into the bright white sand that rests on Furuzamami Beach. Wanderers can also find spectacular sights along the hilly terrain of Mt. Takatsukiyama, which has observation decks overlooking the Ago no Ura Bay and Tokashiki Island as well as the main island of Okinawa and the Kerama Islands. These lookouts make for a wonderful view during the day and at night. Jaime Cerna, a current resident of Zamami Island, tells us about the allure of the island. “You want to travel to Zamami to experience the ‘real Okinawa.’ It’s only an hour away boat ride from Naha, but the beautiful ocean and nature make you feel as though you’ve traveled to a faraway tropical paradise. Zamami has some of the clearest, most transparent water anywhere in the world, with pristine coral reefs and tropical fish everywhere you swim. During the winter, humpback whales come to Zamami for childbearing so visitors can get up close with these majestic creatures on whale watching tours. “Zamami has been well known for decades as the Mecca for scuba diving in Japan. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles and tropical fish, or kayak/stand up paddleboarding on pristine beaches.” You had us at sea turtles...
Images by ©OCVB
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GO GUILIN
The Gift of Green
G
uilin’s landscape outshines anywhere else in the world.” This proclamation has spread throughout the Middle Kingdom for over 1,000 years, and, in many ways, it still rings true today. This picturesque area, whose arresting karst peaks and winding Li River are featured on the back of the RMB20 bill, is an unmissable destination for travelers visiting China. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Guilin Karst is considered a natural wonder and is composed of tower, pinnacle and cone karst formations and large cave systems, among other special characteristics. Viewed during a misty sunrise, with the waters of the Li River serving as a natural mirror, the striking karst scenery drops countless jaws on the daily. Another unique and spellbinding site located to the north of Guilin is the Longji Rice Terraces, which began con-
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struction over 600 years ago. The long, snaking terraces are said to resemble a dragon’s scales, and every June, they are filled with water for rice production. Lying in the northeastern portion of Guangxi Autonomous Region, the city of Guilin is home to the largest number of individuals from the Zhuang ethnic minority, as well as members of the Yao and Miao ethnic groups, among others. As such, the region is steeped in rich cultural customs and diverse, succulent cuisines. On Xi Jie (West Street) in Yangshuo county (a must-go destination in Guilin), eateries and shops are visited day in and day out by tourists from around the globe looking to try the area’s esteemed (and often overpriced) Li River ‘beer fish.’ Sampling Guilin rice noodles and sweet Osmanthus wine should also be a priority.
Looking for more expert guides to China’s biggest cities and hottest destinations? Purchase our Explore China travel guide, which offers insider tips, detailed city guides and more. You can order via marketing@thatsmags.com.
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Guilin Liangjiang International Airport Arrive by air at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, which is 28 kilometers southwest of the city center. This airport has two terminals and is commonly referred to simply as Liangjiang Airport. The bulk of routes served are domestic, with flights to cities all over China. International flights are limited and mainly serve other neighboring Asian destinations. A direct airport shuttle bus to Yangshuo is available daily, and the journey takes about 80 minutes, bringing you to Yangshuo North Bus Station. > Liangjiang, Lingui District 临桂区两江 (773 284 5114, www. gl.airport.gx.cn)
Guilin Railway Station (South) Located in south Guilin, this station is the closest to the city center and the oldest. High-speed trains do not pass through this station, but almost all passenger trains (green trains) passing Guilin will stop here. If you’re looking to go directly to Yangshuo from the station, just turn left when exiting. > Zhongshan Nan Lu, Xiangshan District 象山区中山南路
Guilin North Railway Station You can spot this station by its English, Chinese and Zhuang sign (Gvei-linz Bwz Can). For the unaware, Zhuang is a language spoken by the Zhuang people of southern China. This station operates bullet trains to and from Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Nanning and Yangshuo – making it the ideal station for fast and convenient travel in the region. There are plenty of Chinese restaurants and small shops at the far end of the station outside, plus a food court inside the station. > Beichen Lu, Diecai District 叠彩区北辰路
Guilin Qintan Bus Station Qintan Bus station is also known as Guilin Tourist Hub. This station mainly serves short distances. You can travel to the following: Fenghuang Ancient Town, Longsheng Longji Rice Terraces, Rong’an County, Yongfu, Luzhai, Sanjiang, Luocheng, Yizhou, Jinchengjiang, Suqiao and Tongdao Dong Autonomous County in Hunan Province. > No. 31 Cuizhu Lu, Xiufeng District 秀峰区翠竹路31号 (0773 383 2703)
Boat The Li River cruise is one of the most popular activities for visitors. The relaxing one-way boat ride is four hours long and will take you south to Yangshuo. Be warned, however, as this excursion is quite crowded, another option is to go bamboo rafting from Yangdi Pier to Xingping Village, which takes around an hour and a half to two hours and you’ll be in a better position to snap sweet photos of the surrounding scenery.
Taxi There are around 2,000 taxis in the city, so hailing one or ordering a DiDi is quite convenient. Although many public signs are in English, taxi drivers typically only speak Chinese.
Bike Renting bikes or e-bikes are an excellent option to explore the Guilin’s lush landscape. There are dedicated scenic routes for bike riding, and you can even ride along the Li River if you want to get up close with nature. E-bikes will run you about RMB50 a day, while bikes are around RMB15. Most hotels or rental places will have cute colorful rental bikes available.
Guilin South Bus Station The old, centrally located Guilin General Bus Station was closed in 2018 and replaced with the Guilin South Bus Station. There are eight ticket windows to serve passengers, with five routes stopping at this station. Destinations include cities in Guangxi, Guangdong and Hunan provinces. > Xiangshan District 象山区(0773 382 2666)
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Guilin Night Market This is considered Guilin’s biggest night market. Look out for the red tents, which sell all sorts of handicrafts from flutes to porcelain, in addition to a variety of local traditional snacks. > Xicheng Lu Pedestrian Street, Xiufeng District 秀 峰区西城路步行街
Zhengyang Walking Street Buildings along this street feature a blend of Chinese, Japanese and European styles. Stalls sell an assortment of cultural knickknacks such as embroidered balls, silk clothes dyed with Guilin landmarks (the Li River, Elephant Trunk Hill, cormorant fishing, etc.)， Chinese oil paintings, painted fans and much more. > Zhengyang Pedestrian Street, Xiufeng District 秀 峰区正阳步行街
West Street Head over to neighboring Yangshuo county, where you can experience West Street (also known as ‘Foreigner Street’), which has a history of more than 1,400 years. West Street attracts visitors from all over the world for its selection of shops and local eats against a beautiful mountainous backdrop. You can buy all types of souvenirs here like watercolor paintings, T-shirts, jade trinkets and more. > West Street, Yangshuo County 阳朔县西街
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Li River Boat Tour Winding its way between Guilin’s karst mountains, the beguiling Li River has frequently appeared in Chinese paintings and poetry, stretching across the ages of the country’s cultural imagery. The scenic views along the waterway vary according to the season, weather and area. Under a clear blue sky, it shines and shimmers in the wake of lively boatmen; on a foggy or drizzly day, however, the Li River and the mountains stretching out along its banks are cloaked in bewitching mystery. A typical boat tour within the city limits (around RMB65) can be accomplished in less than an hour, while the ‘essential’ tour (RMB240-450), which ends at Yangshuo, takes roughly two hours. Tickets can be purchased via tour agencies or hotels
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Elephant Trunk Hill Located in the heart of Guilin, Elephant Trunk Hill is the city’s emblem and the most renowned tourist attraction. As its name implies, the limestone hill, resting by the Li River, resembles a water-drinking elephant. Inside a cave formed between the ‘elephant’s’ legs and trunk, poems and inscriptions left by prominent writers and poets more than 1,000 years ago can still be found today. In the surrounding park, there are also two ancient Buddhist temples and a small museum to be explored.
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Jingjiang Princes’ Palace Built roughly 700 years ago during the early Ming Dynasty, Guilin’s own Jingjiang Princes’ Palace was a royal residence with an even longer history than Beijing’s famous Forbidden City. Arrayed dramatically against the backdrop of the region’s unique karst landscape, this complex of opulent 14th-century residences, temples, caves and fortifications housed more than 14 Ming princes – representatives of imperial power in this then-farflung region. Many of the structures visible today are complete or partial restorations, since the complex was put to the flame during the tumultuous Taiping Rebellion. Regardless, Jingjiang Palace is still considered one of the best-preserved royal residences in China. Today it also serves as a campus for the Guangxi Normal University.
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Jasmine Sun On 20 Years Working in the Ascott Family
How did you come to work for Ascott? After graduating from university, my first formal job was with Ascott. Although 20 years have passed, the job interview is still vivid in my mind. I felt a completely different experience to a hotel – that is, I felt the warmth of a family. From the HR Manager to the General Manager, I had a great feeling about the corporate culture of the company. I have spent 90% of my career at Ascott, and I can only see this percentage going up. The working environment and group philosophy is the most important thing; we have a simple working environment and don’t have to worry about the complications of office politics. There is a smooth communication mechanism between the upper and lower levels; we all want to do our best, keep improving and strive for perfection. I have always had direct bosses who are very supportive of me, allowing me to give full play to my strengths and contribute my own strength in the big Ascott family. Does that feeling extend to the guests? Ascott has always been committed to creating a homely comfortable living experience for guests. Twenty years of working experience in the service industry has made me appreciate this philosophy more and more. At the same time, Ascott not only provides guests with a ‘home,’ but employees also use it as a home. Employees and guests, employees and employees, and guests and guests are all like family. Everyone lives together in a community, provides or enjoys high-quality services, and feels joy and warmth from the heart. Who doesn't like being with family?
Tell us more about this ‘family’ relationship with your guests? Our guests are mainly long-term residents, so we get to know each other well and become close. For example, when I was close to giving birth, our long-term residents’ wives spontaneously organized a baby shower party for me, prepared a wealth of food and a wide range of gifts. That is what I mean when I talk about the feeling the warmth of family. What makes a good serviced apartment complex? I think it’s a matter of hardware and software. In terms of hardware, Ascott has comprehensive standard requirements, which are constantly updated, in order to meet the needs of different customers. From the software perspective, the satisfaction of the guests, the sense of belonging among the employees, and the layer-by-layer management ability, from the headquarters to the property, are particularly important. What part of your job gives you most satisfaction? Having a stable and willing team working together, with reasonable and supportive superiors, and a warm family-like group culture. And what are the main challenges you face?
In the service industry, the employee – or service provider – is a person, and humans are complex animals. To continuously improve our ‘ecological’ environment, we must do our work well. To satisfy customers, our most important thing is to improve their sense of belonging, happiness and accomplishment. There is joy from the inside out, and employees who are ready to help feel completely different. This sentiment will also infect everyone they come into contact with. It is not easy to form such a team for hundreds of people in a property, and it is even more difficult to replicate it to hundreds of Ascott. To maintain Ascott’s continuous progress, we need to continuously expand our team. What is your personal philosophy? The core values of CapitaLand Group are "Mutual trust and mutual respect, integrity and honesty, creativity and innovation, high quality and excellence." For me that means be the best yourself, build the best team, and serve the best company; Be as fully familiar with all aspects of knowledge required by the hotel apartments as possible, and continue to learn to enrich yourself; Unreservedly share what you know with colleagues, be willing to listen to the voices of colleagues, pursue perfection in every small matter, and make progress together with the team. In the big family of Ascott, we lead every member of the team to contribute their own strength to our home.
To do things well, you cannot simply doing them mechanically; you need to think about whether there is a better way. There is a saying: Do one thing well for a long time, that is how you become an expert. I agree with this sentiment.
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BUSINESS & TECH Spending Big
China’s Top 10 Cities with Strong Consumption p36
Inspect-a-Gadget P34
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Highs and Lows P35
GAME THEORY
JEFFREY WILSON
Counsel, JunHe LLP Interview by Ryan Gandolfo
As a counsel specializing in employment law in China, Jeffrey Wilson has unique insight into how the law works here. Below, he shares with That’s his experience working in a large PRC law firm and common misconceptions that foreigners may have regarding their employment in the Middle Kingdom. How did you get started in law in China? After college, I worked at an import company in Portland. Many of my friends were going to Japan, so I did something different and went to work for a year in China before law school. I went to the University of Washington, so I was able to take a couple of introductory classes in Chinese law as well as get a MA in Chinese studies. I was originally supposed to return to the Chinese mainland for study in 1989 but ended up going to Taiwan for about 10 years, where I worked for a couple of law firms, as a translator, placing athletes, and as a writer and newspaper editor. I like to think that last experience was quite helpful to prevent me from writing like a stereotypical lawyer. With kids and tuition to pay, I finally decided to leave Taiwan and join a large international firm. That took me to Hong Kong and Shanghai in 2002, where I was trained as a general commercial lawyer doing all kinds of China work. I started to specialize in employment law about 15 years ago. How important is Chinese language proficiency to working here as a lawyer? Depends on what type of firm and the area of practice. If a lawyer is working in an international firm and only doing international deals in English, then maybe minimal Chinese skills are needed. In contrast, labor law is quite a local practice, and I’m with a PRC firm. It would be hard to get by without reasonable proficiency in written and spoken Chinese. For example, we have
“Employment law gives a window into how society is changing as well as how the law impacts people on an individual level” a new IT and document management system. Almost all the interface is in Chinese, as is much of the written communication in the office. Having some Chinese abilities hopefully means I’m less of a burden to the office staff and can live and work somewhat independently. I also realize that the days of foreigners coming to work in local or international firms might be quite limited because of the large pool of local lawyers who have great language and legal skills. What is your experience working in a large PRC law firm? I’m one of the few foreigners in a large, established PRC firm, so I probably have a rather unique perspective on how a local firm operates. Our group has a large client base of mostly foreign companies, so I can get a fairly good sense of how the law is applied in practice and what employers do. Because JunHe is a local firm, I also get the chance to see how my colleagues navigate the courts in litigation. Our team of about 35 labor lawyers has decades of experience in offices across China, so there are a lot of resources I can pull from if necessary. Why are you interested in Chinese employment law? Employment law gives a window into how society is changing as well as how the law impacts people on an individual level.
There are also so many interesting issues that come up and to explore, such as how older workers are treated, employee investigations, data privacy, litigation and discrimination. For many employees, the law is quite protective, and those employees are often quite aware of how to use the law to their advantage. There is also the difference between Chinese and Western approaches. Take the reactions to COVID-19 when the government here discouraged layoffs and made a few substantial changes in the law. It was much different than what happened in some Western countries with layoffs, changes to the law, government intervention and financial supports. What are some common misconceptions that foreign nationals may have regarding their employment at a Chinese entity? One is that foreigners enjoy all the rights that their PRC national colleagues and friends enjoy. Another misconception is that simply having a contract protects the foreigner. The contract isn’t worth much if the foreigner doesn’t have a work permit. Finally, some foreigners think they can change jobs and continue to work on a work permit. In reality, the foreigner will need to amend the work permit with the new employer.
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TAKE STOCK TAP THAT APP
China Train Booking
As several individuals have informed us over the past month, WeChat’s popular travel booking Mini Program has routinely denied foreign nationals from booking trains on the platform. With this in mind, we turn our attention towards China Train Booking, a quick and easy way to book train tickets on-the-go. China Train Booking is an Englishlanguage app that helps you book high speed trains all across the country. After you complete your ticket purchase, the app supports the latest e-ticket setting so you can get into the station and board your train with only your passport and a charged mobile phone! There are other options to collect your ticket or have it delivered to your hotel or personal address. The only downside is an added service charge of USD3 tacked on to each ticket order. However, if you find yourself in a jam at the 11th hour and need a quick way to book a train, China Train Booking is a worthwhile option. > China Train Booking is available on iOS and Android devices.
CHART ATTACK
Privacy First Popular Chinese logistics company Yuantong has been under investigation after an employee colluded with hackers to steal users’ personal information and sell it to other criminals. According to Sina Tech, as many as 400,000 individuals’ personal information has been compromised. A Weibo poll conducted by Sina Tech asked users whether they remove the order information on the package before opening it. Roughly half of respondents admitted to destroying any personal information taped to the packaging while nearly one-third of users said it was too much of a hassle. Source: Weibo
INSPECT-A-GADGET
ByteDance Dali Smart Tutoring Lamp T5 The Dali smart lamp is the first consumer hardware product from TikTok parent company, ByteDance. While this may seem like an unusual foray into the education sector, the device is just one part of the company’s expanding education technology portfolio. This push into education began several years ago and includes software products GoGoKid, Qingbei and Guagua Long – all of which are part of the Dali Education division which employs more than 10,000 people. The desk lamp features a display, two cameras and a built-in digital assistant. The product is aimed at parents who want to ensure their kids are doing their homework and aren’t able to be there to supervise and aid them. The two cameras, located on the top and front of the lamp, enable remote monitoring via a connected smartphone app. Pictures of finished work can be submitted for inspection and the cameras can also be used for video calls. The digital assistant offers help with Math problems, English language learning, word searches and even pronunciation. Additionally, the lamp is certified as a national AA level, ‘professional eye protection lamp’ which emits less blue light than other devices – offering some peace of mind regarding eye strain. With its stable of apps and the Chinese consumer’s appetite for education products, ByteDance’s first hardware product offers a great solution for parents seeking to find a balance between work and looking after their kids. > RMB699 (T5), RMB1,099 (T5 Pro); available on JD.com.
34 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
E D I T O R @ T H AT S M A G S . C O M
HIGHS AND LOWS
Highs • China and nine other countries signed the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) last month, which is seen as an extension of growing Chinese influence in the region. After eight years of negotiating, the partnership represents nearly one-third of global gross domestic product (GDP) and is notably the first time China has signed a regional multilateral trade pact, BBC reports. The RCEP is expected to remove various tariffs on imports within the next two decades, and will likely incentivize member countries to look for suppliers within the trade region. Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea are included in the pact. • JD.com’s online healthcare unicorn JD Health is inching closer to being listed on the Hong Kong stock market after passing a listing hearing in mid-November. After separating into its own unit in May 2019, the digital healthcare company’s valuation has increased from USD7 billion to USD30 billion. JD Health saw significant growth in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and currently accounts for over 15% of the domestic pharmaceutical retail market, Pandaily reports. • Chinese open-source software startup Zilliz recently raised USD43 million in Series B funding, marking a sentimental shift in the way investors view the sector. Charles Xie, founder and CEO of Zilliz, previously worked as a software engineer at Oracle before returning to the Middle Kingdom to start Zilliz. The company’s newly acquired capital is expected to go towards overseas recruitment, growing its open-source ecosystem and research and development in cloud-based products and services, according to Techcrunch. The company plans to start monetizing on its cloud-based services in the second half of 2021.
Lows
• Chinese tech companies’ fintech arms have come under heightened scrutiny from Chinese regulators as many were mulling IPOs in Chinese mainland stock exchanges. One of the most high-profile fintech company Ant Group saw its hopes of a potential recordbreaking IPO dashed in early November after a regulatory shift upended the company’s entire business model, according to South China Morning Post. • A new order by the Trump administration is banning US investments in Chinese firms that the government claims to have ties to the Chinese military. Signed last month, the ban will go into effect in January and could have an adverse effect on some of China’s biggest publicly listed firms, such as China Telecom. US investors will have a year to reshuffle investments. The new order applies to 31 firms that the US has identified as being backed by the Chinese military, which includes tech firms and large state-owned construction companies, among others. While Trump is set to leave office in January, it’s unclear whether incoming President-elect Joe Biden will intervene on this order. • Nearly three billion packages were delivered across the PRC between November 11-16 following a record-breaking Singles’ Day shopping festival. The staggering figure marks a 28% increase yearon-year, and means that every person in China received two parcels in the six-day window, on average. It also indicates a massive increase in e-commerce waste, including materials like cardboard, tape and wrapping bubble. While major tech players like JD.com and Alibaba have started initiatives to make online shopping more sustainable, it’s unlikely to have a major impact for the sheer number of packages.
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 35
BUSINESS & TECH | F E AT URE
Spending Big Strong China’s Top 10 Cities with Consumption By Ryan Gandolfo
I
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2. Beijing
1.Shanghai Total retail sales
tion.
B1.11 trillion of consumer goods: RM
3. Chongqing
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36 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
er goods: RMB939.01
Total retail sales of consum
4. Guangzhou
billion
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Total retail sales of consum
billion
F E AT URE | BUSINESS & TECH
5. Shenzhen
6. Chengdu er goods: RMB604.47
Total retail sales of consum
billion
7. Suzhou
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Total retail sales of consum
8. Nanjing
RMB569.18 billion
er goods:
Total retail sales of consum
RMB516.73 billion
Total reta
9. Hangzhou Total retail
RMB420.4 billion sales of consumer goods:
10. Wuhan
er goods:
Total retail sales of consum
RMB399 billion
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 37
COVER STORY
CHINA YEAR IN REVIEW 38
While we can’t say we remember much of what happened in 2005 or 2013, this year is shaping up to be one we won’t forget for a long time. We’ve experienced plenty of highs and lows in 2020 and feel fortunate that China’s COVID-19 situation is largely under control, which has led to a fair bit of traveling and an overall sense of normalcy. As is customary for the final That’s issue of the year, we take a look at everything that’s happened in the Middle Kingdom and the world at large over the past 12 months. From our top news stories and the most significant sports events to trends in fashion, F&B and travel, we cover it all. In the following pages, read up on all the interesting and profoundly bizarre things that occurred in 2020.
COVER STORY
39
Video of Nude Woman Masturbating in Chinese IKEA Goes Viral Shenzhen Becomes 1st Chinese City to Ban Dog and Cat Consumption Shenzhen made history in April of this year after the city passed the ‘Wild Ban Order,’ making it the first Chinese city to ban the sale and consumption of dog and cat meat. The regulation went into effect on May 1. The timing followed Beijing’s move to ban the trade and consumption of certain terrestrial wild animals. In the passed bill, the Shenzhen government stated, “Cats and dogs, as pets, have established a closer relationship with humans than other animals. The ban on the consumption of pets such as cats and dogs is also common practice in developed places like Hong Kong, Taiwan and other regions.” Kudos to Shenzhen for doing the right thing!
COVER STORY
TOP TRENDING STORIES
on thatsmags.com in 2020
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An amateur pornographic video featuring a young woman masturbating in a Chinese IKEA went viral in early May, forcing the Swedish home decor company to issue a statement following the embarrassing incident. The graphic footage showed a half-naked Chinese woman masturbating on furniture throughout the warehouse’s showroom as seemingly oblivious customers – including children – wander around in the background.
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28 March
Chinese Kids Wear ‘One-Meter Hats’ to Practice Social Distancing In late April, teachers in Zhejiang province had the clever idea of practicing social distancing in the classroom with colorful ‘one-meter hats’ on the first day of the new semester. The school’s headmaster, surnamed Hong, told the press that the DIY quarantine hats were a fun way to help classmates keep a safe distance between one another. “We encourage our students to wear the hats to stay at least one meter away from each other,” said Hong. Students used balloons, cardboard and other colorful decorating materials to design their cute creations. Maybe countries in Europe and the Americas can take a hint!
China Orders Closure of US Consulate in Chengdu In late July, China ordered the US to close its consulate in Sichuan’s capital city, Chengdu. The move followed a surprising order by the Trump administration to close the Chinese consulate in Houston, where some of the most populated states in the US had relied on visa and consular services. Speculation had been brewing on how China would respond to the closure of its consulate in Houston, with State-run newspaper Global Times even creating a poll on Twitter asking users which US consulate in China was most likely to be shut down. As we learned, Chengdu didn’t make the cut. The consulate opened in 1985 and held consular jurisdiction of Sichuan, Yunnan and Guizhou provinces as well as the Tibet Autonomous Region and Chongqing. Well, not anymore…
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Walrus Paraded Around Guangzhou Mall Outrages Netizens A Guangzhou aquarium had the ‘brilliant’ idea of letting walruses roam inside pedestrian-heavy Grandview Mall to celebrate Children’s Day on June 1. A netizen posted a photo of the shocking scene on Weibo, which shows one walrus surrounded by spectators on the second floor of the mall in the city’s Tianhe district. Perhaps it comes as no surprise since the mall and the Grandview Aquarium have long had a bad reputation among shoppers. A top commenter on Weibo wrote, “Grandview Aquarium is really disgusting, there have been reports of abuse of polar bears before.” Another netizen added, “A place famous for animal cruelty.”
Visitors Witness Bears Killing Breeder at Shanghai Wild Animal Park Visitors at Shanghai Wild Animal Park were emotionally scarred after witnessing a park employee attacked by a group of bears in late October, ultimately leading to the worker’s death. The employee was said to be doing his job when the attack happened. The zoo apologized to guests for the ‘inconvenience.’ It said in a statement that they would cooperate with authorities to investigate the attack and improve safety regulations to prevent future incidents. Some netizens voiced their disapproval for zoos, while others noted that there have been too many other incidents where visitors have been harmed and even killed by animals at zoos.
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September
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28
04
COVER STORY
41
TRAVEL Intelligent Travel As one of the first holidays after China started to rein in COVID-19, the travel turnout during the May Day holiday surpassed forecasts by Chinese travel company Trip.com. Still, it fell by more than 40% compared to domestic trips last year. The holiday also saw the early implementation of measures for ‘intelligent travel,’ a term referring to the application of mobile technology to avoid overcrowding in popular tourist sites by tracking guest capacity.
Nowhere Else to Go During China’s National Day holiday (which fell on the same day as Mid-Autumn festival), Chinese travelers explored the Middle Kingdom more than ever (we think), with roughly 782 million visits made to China’s domestic attractions over the eight-day holiday. This marked a 7.81% increase year-on-year. For some cities like Chongqing, the holiday was a boon for the tourism sector, with 20 million visitors pouring into the city in the first four days.
Sneaky Staycation
COVER STORY
While staycations were on the rise before the epidemic, China travel experts have indicated that domestic trends like making the hotel itself a destination and capitalizing on more of the accommodation’s resources have gained momentum since the start of COVID-19. We’ve also seen it in a number of hotel promotions in China’s biggest cities (go to pages 60-61 to learn more). Family suites have been a special focus for hotels where added amenities for children create a more engaging stay for the whole family.
42
Rent and Roll Another travel trend in the PRC that has picked up steam since the start of the year has been car rentals. China’s largest online travel agency Trip.com expects orders to jump by 30% on a yearly basis, according to China Daily. Perhaps most staggering is that nearly two-thirds of Trip.com car rental customers were new users in 2020 – showing strong potential growth in the years to come. Some of the most popular destinations for car rentals are Sanya, Chengdu and Shanghai.
LIFESTYLE Same-Sex Couple Ad A promotional video by Alibaba’s ecommerce platform Tmall caught the attention and praise of LGBTQ allies and advocates around the web in January. While homosexuality is not illegal in China, it still faces “persistent discrimination and prejudices from the government and public,” cites CNN. The ad starts off with a man bringing home a partner for the holidays who he introduces as Kelvin; two girls giggle. Later on, when the family sits down to eat, the father hands Kelvin some soup, and he responds with “thanks dad,” which is another surprising and funny moment.
Rebranding Racist Roots Bloomberg reported in June that controversial Colgate-Palmoliveowned toothpaste brand, Darlie, would finally be rebranding. Darlie is one of the best-selling toothpaste brands in China, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, which translates to ‘Black Person Toothpaste’ (黑人牙膏). This move was spurred in part by the weeks-long protests over the death of George Floyd in the US.
Over the Moon Netflix released this musical animation by Pearl Studios in October, which features all Asian voice talent. The story follows 12-year-old Fei Fei, who, after losing her mother, throws herself into building a rocket in search of the mythical Chang’e, Goddess of the Moon. Instead of simply dubbing the movie for Chinese audiences, the whole script was rewritten over the course of a year to ensure the movie’s humor was not lost in translation. You’ll be able to spot fun references like dancing ladies in the park, hairy crabs, maglev trains and moon cakes.
In
COVER STORY
43
Tencent Scammed Lao Gan Ma, one of China’s most recognizable chili sauce makers, was sued by internet giant Tencent over contract disputes and was ordered to freeze RMB16.2 million (USD2.3 million) worth of assets, according to a court ruling in Shenzhen, where Tencent is headquartered. It turns out, three people were later arrested after allegedly forging Lao Gan Ma’s company seal to sign a cooperation deal with Tencent, Reuters reported.
Sexist Ad Chinese domestic condom brand Jissbon was caught with its pants down over a sexist and degrading ad campaign. The advertisement, posted on Taobao, suggested that the level of happiness that a woman felt in her marriage was measurable by an illustration of six progressively widening vaginas. According to Sixth Tone, the implication that a vagina loosens over time due to sexual activity was immediately met with a barrage of bewildering criticism, and the post was removed after just 70 minutes.
Chinese-African Contestant Receives Racist Remarks In April, Zhong Feifei was announced as a contestant in a singing reality TV show called Produce Camp 2020. However, her debut was met with much criticism as she is mixed-race. She was born in Liaoning province to a Chinese mother and Congolese father. Netizens on Weibo barraged her profile with the transliterated Chinese characters for the derogatory ‘N-word.’
Out
rt A s Smashing Success
Taiwanese Mandopop legend Jay Chou‘s hit single ‘Mojito’ becomes the song of the summer (in China, anyway).
Wuhan hosts a massive EDM concert and pool party in August, showing the rest of the world that they know how to party (and social distance).
Netflix is awarded the rights to adapt Liu Cixin’s The Three-Body Problem into an English language series. In case you don’t have Netflix, it might be time to start dating someone who does.
Alibaba cofounder Jack Ma and Chinese Pop Star Faye Wong sing ‘The Song of Taobao’ over livestream in September.
Unexpected
Expected
Highly anticipated Art Basel Hong Kong is canceled and turned into an online exhibition.
Chinese cinemas open back up, but there are no good movies to watch.
COVER STORY
Star Wars’ John Boyega is cut from the Chinese version of his own Jo Malone ad and replaced with Chinese actor Liu Haoran.
Mulan flops in its opening debut in September as both Chinese and Western media criticize the film for very different reasons.
Two major Shanghai institutions – the International Film Festival and International Literary Festival – are postponed amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dud
44
The Guangdong Southern Tigers were as dominant as it gets this year, securing a league-best 42-4 record followed by a near-perfect run in the playoffs. The Dongguan-based team swept the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in the CBA finals to claim their first championship in six years. The team received significant contributions from guard MarShon Brooks and forward Sonny Weems, along with center Yi Jianlian who was named Finals MVP.
Yan Wei It’s one thing to run a marathon, another thing to run an ultramarathon and an entirely different thing to run an ultramarathon blind. Yan Wei can claim all three after becoming the country’s first blind runner to finish a 100-kilometer ultramarathon in Shanghai this past October. Yan completed the course in 9 hours and 40 minutes with the help of 15 volunteer guide runners. Yan, who is from Shandong province, has been visually impaired since he was a baby and picked up running to lose weight and overcome asthma, according to CGTN.
Hulk’s Niece
Jiangsu Suning Nanjing-based soccer team became champions of China for the first time in their history, after beating eight time and reigning champions – and firm favorites – Guangzhou Evergrande 2-1 in the two-legged Chinese Super League championship final. The victory means Jiangsu qualifies for the World Club Cup, which is to be hosted in China and features Europe’s best clubs. Bring on Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich!
Beijing Ducks Despite making it to the CBA semi-finals in a season heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ducks will lose an NBA champion in Jeremy Lin, who announced in September that he wouldn’t be returning to the Ducks next season. And with capital rival Beijing Royal Fighters clicking with head coach Stephon Marbury and star player Kyle Fogg, expect rough sledding ahead for the Ducks in 2021.
SIPG’s Brazilian forward made headlines after ending his 12-year relationship with wife Iran Angelo… and then marrying her pretty 31-year-old niece, Camila Angelo. Not such a good year, however, for poor Hulk’s now ex-wife, who says she was very close to Camila. “I wake up and go to sleep without understanding why everything happened to me,” said Iran. “The pain is very great; sometimes, I think it will tear my heart out. She was a daughter to me.”
Wu Lei
Bad Ye ar
China’s most high-profile footballer suffered relegation from Spain’s La Liga with Espanyol. Undeterred, and despite being linked with English Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers and Besiktas in Turkey, Wu took a pay cut to stay in Spain and fight to get the ‘blue and whites’ promoted back to the top division. Having already agreed to halve his Shanghai SIPG wage to join the Spanish club in 2019, he is reported to now be on the equivalent salary of a reserve team player in the Chinese Super League.
Ty Lawson
Chinese Grand Prix
After playing for the Fujian Sturgeons for three seasons, Ty Lawson was banned from the CBA after an Instagram story gone wrong. In a string of posts, Lawson wrote, “Chinese woman got cakes on the low….. might switch up my stance soon lol” and “Yolo I guess lol,” including a photo of what appears to be the basketball player getting a lap dance with a firm hand on the ‘cake’. In defense, Lawson later clarified in a video that he’s “probably the least racist guy that you’ve ever met in life.”
The Chinese Grand Prix made history this year when it became the first major international sporting event to be canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak, all the way back on February 12. At that time, the World Health Organization had confirmed some 43,000 cases worldwide, with the death toll exceeding 1,000. Remember numbers that low?
COVER STORY
S RT O SP Guangdong Southern Tigers
G ood Ye ar
45
We Try It Baijiu-Flavored Pocky
Subway’s Mysterious Avocado Cheese Chicken Nuggets Our curiosity compelled us to try Subway’s avocado cheese-filled chicken nuggets over the summer. Inside the nuggets, we discovered a layer of pale green paste that looked almost sickening in the center of the fast-food staple. The breading tasted peppery and flavorful, the ‘chicken’ well seasoned, and the mysterious green filling was by no means unpleasant. Beyond questioning the chicken quality (which one should always do at fast-food eateries), we found ourselves pondering why the mysterious paste didn’t taste like avocado or cheese. As for expectations for a sandwich chain’s chicken nugget, we found them to be above average.
Popular baijiu brand Jiangxiaobai took its youth-oriented marketing to a new low by teaming up with Japanese snack brand Pocky. But, the result is surprisingly delicious, regardless of your opinion on the fierce liquor itself. The crisp, somewhat fruity flavor of Jiangxiaobai baijiu is perfectly captured in the creamy coating. Without the swift kick of alcohol, the taste can genuinely be enjoyed, and if the goal is to introduce more people to baijiu, this would be an excellent first step. As far as letting your children try, we should note that the alcohol content is less than 0.1%.
Lingya Hard Seltzer A new entry to the ever-growing garden of Chinese libations is Lingya, the Middle Kingdom’s first hard seltzer, crafted in Shanghai. Made with a simple blend of soda water, 3.8% gluten-free alcohol and a hint of fruit essence, one can is just 70 calories and zero grams of sugar and fat. Lingya also boasts no artificial colors. More importantly, the fruity taste is robust enough to handle a splash of baijiu to get that ABV up above 3.8%, a common theme in the comments from our hard-drinking editors.
COVER STORY
Rankings Michelin Shakeup
Top of the World
High-end Italian restaurant Da Vittorio receiving a second Michelin star, sitting comfortably among other fine dining favorites, like 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana, Canton 8, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon and Taian Table, among others. Similarly, in Guangzhou, Imperial Treasure moved up the rankings to receive its second star, alongside Jiang by Chef Fei. We’ve also heard chatter that Chengdu could be next in line to get their very own Michelin city guide (although we can’t confirm anything at this time).
In the bar world, Sober Company, a Shanghai-based multi-concept venue by Shingo Gokan (of Speak Low) housing a cafe on the ground floor, a modern Chinese restaurant on the second and a cocktail bar on the third, was named the No. 42 bar on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, making it the top-ranked bar on the Chinese mainland. Due to travel restrictions, the World’s 50 Best announcement was made via livestream instead of an in-person event like in the past. Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards ceremony was set to be held in May in Singapore and was also moved online.
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Cooking Past COVID-19 China’s F&B World Takes on a Rollercoaster Year The food and beverage industry in China is not always smooth sailing, and the excitement has only been amplified by the rollercoaster that has been 2020. Rocked hard by the coronavirus outbreak, the F&B industry across the globe has seen giants fall and newcomers rise from the ashes. More than anything, the industry has banded together, proving a resilience that has afforded a select few rewards in the form of a Michelin star or a promotion in the World’s or Asia’s 50 Best lists!
“C
OVID-19 caused us to adapt and meet demand in new ways,” says Bastien Ciocca, cofounder of Hope & Sesame. When bars were forced to close across the PRC in February due to public health restrictions, Ciocca and his team used that time to get creative, kickstarting a cocktailto-go program where cocktails are pre-batched in cans and delivered to people’s doorsteps. In a matter of months, they had delivered over 6,000 cans around Guangzhou and inspired others, like Cross Yu, founder of Epic in Shanghai, to do the same. The time spent domestically allowed Ciocca and co. to expand their bar portfolio to include San You, a baijiufocused bar, and Hope & Sesame Shenzhen, something they wouldn’t have been able to do with their busy international travel schedule pre-COVID-19. The pandemic gave the F&B industry a chance for internal reflection and an opportunity to ensure higher quality and better customer service. After maintaining his two-Michelinstar status following the most recent Michelin press conference in September, Chef Fei from Guangzhou’s Jiang by Fei comments, “This year, due to the epidemic, everyone has had a difficult time, so I must continue to maintain a high standard for my team.” In Shanghai, Chef Sergio Moreno of Shanghai neighborhood modern tapas restaurant Commune Social, adds, “The year started off disastrously. With an uncertain future, we tried to survive through options like delivery, and it was our strong customer base that helped us get through it.” By late spring, the government’s strict measures to eradicate the epidemic really started to pay off, and although travel was limited, people were ready to go out, be social and, most importantly, spend money. Many restaurants started to see an uptick in sales, and by mid-summer, most year-to-date revenue totals were up when compared to the same time last year. Kelvin Ip, General Manager of UnTour Food Tours, the leading Shanghai-based food tour company since 2010, saw
some major changes in the company throughout the year. After pausing nearly all of their public tours indefinitely in the first half of 2020, Ip and founder Jamie Barys were able to focus on large-scale events, like the hugely successful first-ever Jianbing Cookoff later on in the year. They also launched a new Koreatown tour, pivoting the company’s focus to attract more Shanghai residents instead of visiting tourists. “People in China are ready to go out and have a good time again, even if the rest of the world isn’t in a situation to do that yet,” says Logan Brouse, founder of Logan’s Punch and Tacolicious in Shanghai. “Shanghai and the rest of the country are recovering, and the restaurant and bar industry is ready for it.” The coronavirus definitely left its mark on the China food and beverage scene, but as we’ve seen there is always a silver lining. From closures came new openings with a renewed focus on staying local, offering better service and expanding on the strong base that already exists.
COVER STORY
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FAMILY Mending Mental Health The PRC’s 90 Million-Person Problem p52
Eco Home P50
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Veggie Mama P51
FULL HOUSE
YULIA YAN
Executive Director of Shanghai Sunrise Charity Interview by Ned Kelly
Yulia Yan has lived in China since 2007, first studying Mandarin in Harbin and then moving to Shanghai, where she started her career in international sales, business development and crosscultural project management. Looking to give back, she began volunteering for Shanghai Sunrise after a board member introduced her to the charity in 2018. Earlier this year, she took up the role of Executive Director. What does Shanghai Sunrise do? Shanghai Sunrise creates access to education through scholarship programs. We’re a volunteer-led charity committed to helping underprivileged Shanghai youth. In China, education is only free until the 9th grade. We provide educational scholarships to promising students from low-income families who require financial assistance to continue their high school and university education. Our goal is to empower our graduates to realize fulfilling careers and become positive forces in their communities. What does your new role entail? It has been such a great experience working with a team of like-minded people from different backgrounds – all united by the same cause. So, when I was offered the role of Executive Director earlier this year, I didn’t hesitate long and said yes. As executive director I make sure all aspects of the organization are managed in accordance with the Shanghai Sunrise charter and strategic plan. In addition, I lead both a small professional staff and a team of committed volunteers. In this role, I am the link between the board of directors, our office staff and our core volunteers, and see to it that all sides are on the same page. So basically, I am the spider at the center of the web, ensuring all parts of the organization are connected, and everyone is aligned, knows what we are doing and how we are doing it.
“Our goal is to empower our graduates to realize fulfilling careers and become positive forces in their communities“ How much has COVID-19 affected your charity work and fundraising activities? The pandemic has definitely affected our work; many of our sponsors – among them individuals, corporations and other organizations – have been affected financially, which means some of them will not be able to continue their support of our scholarship program. During these hard times, we are all the more grateful for the ongoing contributions by so many of our partners and sponsors. Several have even generously made additional donations to make sure none of the students currently receiving a Shanghai Sunrise scholarship have to drop out of high school or university this upcoming school year. In addition, the long standstill of public life put our fundraising activities on hold. 100% of scholarship donations go to the students, so we depend on separately raising funds for our program expenses. What changes have you made to deal with the circumstances? When our public activities were on hold during the first half of this year, our volunteers used the time to reflect on our work and improve our internal processes. As life in Shanghai came back to a new normal, we were happy to welcome new volunteers to our team. With this increased manpower, we aim to raise more awareness about us and
share compelling stories and videos about our activities on our social media channels. We also want to strengthen our partnerships in the local community and are always planning exciting fundraising events, including an exclusive photo exhibition and art auction by our longtime supporter Astrid Krehan. How can people get involved with Shanghai Sunrise? There are several ways to get involved: 1. Become a sponsor! Give a disadvantaged student in Shanghai a chance at a brighter future: with just RMB3,000 per year, you can ensure a student in need can stay in high school. 2. Donate your birthday! Give the gift of education: Gather your friends and family to celebrate your special day while making a difference. Ask everyone to send you a donation instead of birthday gifts this year. 3. Volunteer with us! If you believe in the power of education to transform lives, we need you. Volunteering with Shanghai Sunrise is an opportunity to share your talents, develop new skills, build your professional network and make new connections. > For more on Shanghai Sunrise visit www. shanghaisunrise.com or scan the QR code.
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 49
LIVING ROOM DAD’S BOOK LIST
CLASS CLOWN
Book recommendations from That’s editor and ‘girl dad’ Ned Kelly.
Eye Drops
Ages 4-8
Where the Sidewalk Ends By Shel Silverstein
A truly unique collection of poems and drawings, Shel Silverstein stretches our imagination with fanciful stories that address many common childhood concerns in a brilliant way. Published in 1974, the book is listed as one of the top 100 books for children, based on a 2007 online poll conducted by the National Education Association. It’s a book that surely belongs on every family’s bookshelf.
Ages 9-12
Because Of WinnDixie By Kate DiCamillo
This award-winning children’s novel tells the story of India Opal Buloni, a 10-yearold girl who moves to Florida with her father and learns the importance of friendship after befriending a dog she names Winn-Dixie. Her friendly companion helps her grow during what shapes up to be an eventful summer. The book was adapted as a 2005 family film directed by Wayne Wang.
A recent survey conducted by the Ministry of Education discovered that nearly 90% of Chinese high school students have poor vision. The ministry said that appropriate technologies for preventing and controlling myopia will be piloted across China’s biggest municipalities as well as Hebei province. Weibo users noted that occupations requiring strong eyesight will have less qualified candidates in the years to come. State-run newspaper Global Times said children who spend too much time on phones and tablets could damage their eyes and lead to “irreversible harm,” a growing concern among much of the education sector.
ECO HOME
Fireplace Alternatives The last month of the year is a cold one, and nothing beats cozying up next to a fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa (or scotch). But while chances are that your apartment or house doesn’t have a fireplace, there’s still plenty of options for less-thanconventional fireplace setups. From electric and gel fireplaces to LED flames, there are other ways to bring the family together for a nice evening in front of the ‘fire’. While there’s some debate as to which is the most eco friendly, electric fireplaces are often touted as one of the most efficient ways to heat a room, especially compared to conventional wood-burning fireplaces. We’ll leave that up for you and the family to decide! > Alternative fireplaces can be purchased on JD.com.
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E D I T O R @ T H AT S M A G S . C O M
VEGGIE MAMA
Vegan Carrot Ginger Soup Winter is fast approaching and it’s getting cold outside. That’s why it’s the perfect time of year for all things soup. This is my go-to soup recipe not only because it’s easy to make but because it’s delicious and healthy. I like to add ginger and turmeric to my carrot soup. The combination of ingredients means this warming soup is packed with nutrients that will help you and your family stay healthy and full this winter. I like to make extra-large batches of my carrot ginger soup so I can freeze some for later. It’s nice to have a batch ready to go on those nights I don't have time to cook. However, you can easily halve this recipe for fewer servings.
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WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 51
Mending Mental Health F A M I LY | H E A L T H
By Joshua Cawthorpe
C
hina’s mental health problem is, for lack of a better word, depressing. We cross paths with tens of thousands of people on a daily basis in the PRC’s biggest cities, with one in eight people statistically suffering from one debilitating mental disorder or another. This past year has been especially challenging for many who’ve lost a job, had their wage cut, or are entering an anemic workforce. While The PRC’s 90 Millionhave Person Problem more resources been dedicated By Joshua Cawthorpe to mental health in recent years, as well as the proliferation of mental health apps in China, cultural stigmas can adversely impact those in society who need help the most. Here we dive into China’s mental health infrastructure and address what needs to happen for the country’s population suffering from mental health disorders to receive the care they need.
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China’s National Health Commission (NHC) announced an ambitious plan on September 11 to tackle depression, and mental health, where an estimated 16.6% of the Chinese population suffers from some form of mental disorder, according to a 2019 epidemiological study. An estimated 90 million Chinese people suffer from depression and, perhaps most startlingly, 90% of that population do not receive effective treatment, as cited by China Daily. The China Mental Health Survey, the first national mental health survey conducted from 2013 to 2015, surveyed 32,552 people in 31 regions and found that anxiety disorders were the most prevalent, while 6.9% of those surveyed reported depression. The NHC’s plan aims to increase the number of depressed patients receiving treatment to 50% by 2022. It also set targets to provide mental health education to 80% of the population and 85% of students by that same year. A pillar of the new plan involves more screening for disorders and depression in the community, for instance, depression screening among high school and college students as part of their physical health checkups. These goals are in line with the global 2020-2023 Action Plan set forth by the World Psychiatric Association, of which China is a member. Beijing has long sought to improve the country’s mental health facilities. From 2010 to 2012, China invested RMB9.1 billion in the expansion of mental health infrastructure, consisting at the time of 550 institutions. By 2015, there were 949 specialized mental health institutions in China. The first National Mental Health Law was also passed in 2011, which for the first time gave some standards of care and protection within the legal system for people suffering from mental disorders. Critics of the first law argued that Article 27, stating that an individual could be institutionalized against their will for “disturbing public order,” would result in abuse of the law. Nonetheless, the PRC lags behind other countries when it comes to resources per capita. One of the most alarming statistics is that China has only 1.7 psychiatrists for every 100,000 people, compared to 12 in the US. Moreover, these services are significantly concentrated in major cities, and that number drops off considerably in less densely populated areas, specifically in West and Central China. A major obstacle in the NHC’s plan is incentivizing doctors to specialize in the field of psychiatry. In traditional Chinese medicine, mental illness is considered a disturbance of qi rather than a specific condition. Also, the financial benefit and the medical community’s stance on psychiatry both seem to contribute to the shortage of mental health practitioners. As a result, doctors at psychiatric hospitals are often overwhelmed, seeing hundreds of patients a day for only very brief sessions. As community outpatient services are even more limited, there is little opportunity for follow-up appointments, and patients with less severe symptoms are often brushed aside. Dr. Alfred Chambers, a psychiatrist at United Family Hospital, shared his views on the state of mental health services in the Middle Kingdom. “China does its best to follow Western standards with diagnosis and treatment and views on how to take care of the most difficult patients. The country is not as good at treating the less disabled mental health [patients], such as somebody who is just sort of having life trouble – that’s not really considered particularly important. Unless they can diagnose and give medicine, there is still a gap in education on how to do psychotherapy,” Dr. Chambers tells us from his office in Guangzhou in between seeing patients. The stigma surrounding mental disorders is a global obstacle that is uniquely complicated in China because of prejudice and discrimination. Many Chinese people do not seek help for mental health issues because of shame or simply a lack of awareness about what services are offered. The nuances of Chinese culture and its effect on stigma towards mental ill-
H E A L T H | F A M I LY
ness have been studied for decades. The problem has roots that stretch back to Confucian philosophy in a number of ways. Filial obedience and obligations to one’s family pertain directly to their status as a ‘moral individual.’ One element of Confucianism is that individuals must learn to control their behavior and show restraint before exerting social influence. This process which is considered a crucial step into adulthood. As a result, the misplaced perception that people with a mental illness are unpredictable or cannot control themselves contributes to the stigma. Furthermore, the Chinese concept of ‘face’ is of utmost importance, especially among older generations. Chinese people tend to be cautious when sharing their personal problems or challenges and are careful to keep up appearances so that they and their family members do not ‘lose face.’ According to Dr. Chambers, the majority of Chinese people who seek out mental health services are women aged 20-35. He also suggests that a large number of patients who suffer from some form of mental illness will seek treatment for somatic bodily symptoms rather than pursue psychiatric assessment. This results in the misdiagnosis of an imagined physical health concern and the treatment then being merely a placebo effect from the medication prescribed. In addition to cultural stigmas, mental health services in China can also be expensive, which poses another obstacle to improving access to appropriate resources. Traditional gender roles and the obligation to support relatives financially also limits the amount of disposable income that someone can justify spending on their own mental health problems. One online mental health platform that we explored, a WeChat account called Wuzhihong (武 志红), offered self-assessment tests for RMB9-19 and listed a number of psychiatrists with whom users could schedule face-to-face or video appointments, which ranged from RMB200 to RMB1,200 per hour. A major reason to address the shortfalls of China’s mental health infrastructure is the impact it has on the healthcare system as a whole. The CDC – Kaiser Permanente Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) Study, first conducted from 1995-1997 in the US, demonstrated clearly that ACEs are related to increased physical health costs throughout an individual’s life. In simple terms, the study showed that trauma in childhood correlated to physical illness and early death in adulthood. The study has been replicated in other countries and produced the same findings. Throughout the past decade, the ACE study has been conducted sev-
eral times with different sample groups around China. A 2012 survey of 1,000 children in Hong Kong found that 36% reported physical assault at their mothers’ hands. More recently, a 2015 meta-analysis of 68 child maltreatment studies from around China similarly revealed a 27% incidence rate of physical abuse and a 26% incidence rate of neglect. A separate study spanning five major Chinese cities with data from 5,000 adults found that one in three recorded a least one type of major household dysfunction during childhood, such as witnessing domestic abuse or substance abuse. China’s suicide rate has dropped since the 1990s as a result of urbanization and better education. Compared to the US, which has seen a rise in recent years, this can be interpreted as a good sign in the overall mental health of China. However, according to The Lancet, suicide in highincome countries is usually attributed to mental illness. In China, however, twothirds of suicide attempts and one-third of suicides are among people not registered in the healthcare system as having any mental disorder. Although suicide prevention was outlined in the 2015-2020 action plan, this figure still paints a grim picture of the undiagnosed population. So how can access to care be increased in the short term? Mental health apps have been steadily gaining in popularity for several years and might present a realistic path to addressing China’s need for more widespread access to knowledge and treatment while remaining discreet and comparatively affordable. These apps generally provide self-tests, information on mental health that can increase personal awareness, online counseling and options to schedule in-person sessions with doctors at various facilities in the area (if available). Some apps provide cognitive behavioral therapy to combat insomnia, depression and anxiety while other programs use AI to provide intervention, like Tree Holes Rescue, which identifies signs of suicide risk in Weibo posts and alerts volunteers who then reach out to those individuals. However, the field is virtually unregulated and needs to be better understood and legislated to become a viable solution for China’s lack of mental health resources. A 2019 assessment of popular mental health apps was conducted by Peking University Health Science Center. Although the overall quality of the apps was rated ‘acceptable,’ it found that only 3% were developed by the government or local CDCs, 17% were developed by psychiatric hospitals or counseling agencies and 78% had been developed by commercial entities. Dr. Chambers echoes this concern in that
there is no concrete standard of training for counsellors. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted an at-risk group with frontline healthcare workers reporting an uptick in insomnia and anxiety and who faced discrimination, overwork and exhaustion, isolation from their families and a high risk of infection from inadequate protection, according to The Lancet. Medical institutions were quick to employ technology to provide guidelines for selfhelp and mental health education to the public in the face of lockdowns. As Wuhan went into lockdown in late January, the city opened two 24-hour mental health hotlines. Psychologists and psych nurses were also dispatched from hospitals around the country to offer counseling to both patients and medics, in-person and online. According to China Daily, e-commerce giant JD.com started providing 24-hour online psychological counselling to users in late January with a team of 2,000 doctors. A public WeChat account called KnowYourself, which has provided online mental health services since 2015, also opened a ‘green channel’ to expedite access for healthcare workers. Overall, China seems to be on the right track in terms of acknowledging the need for more mental health services. However, it takes time to train specialists, before which we might see lasting effects on a sizeable segment of China’s population. The need for more health services is only exacerbated in regions that already have very limited resources. While mental health apps might bridge the gap by providing more mental health awareness and literacy in Chinese society, which could alleviate the impact of social stigma, it’s painfully obvious that you’ll need more than a suite of apps to address the mental patient in the room.
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LISTINGS SHANGHAI
Jiahui Health' s experienced dentists provide dental health services for adults and children, including dental check-ups, fillings, prevention of tooth decay, painless dental pulp treatment, and treatment and protection against periodontal disease. The Dentistry Department also carries out multi-disciplinary collaboration in the hospital, such as working with dermatologists to offer invisalign orthodontics and solutions to skin problems for beauty seekers; working with E.N.T. specialists to help adolescents with problems such as mouth breathing, adenoidal hypertrophy and allergic rhinitis; working with MSK to provide sports lovers a comprehensive range of preventive strategies on sports injury. 1) Jiahui International Hospital, 689 Guiping Lu, by Qinjiang Lu 2) Jiahui Health (Yangpu), 1F/2F, Suite 3, 99 Jiangwancheng Lu, by Yingao Dong Lu 3) Jiahui Health (Jing’an), Suite101, 88 Changshu Lu, by Changle Lu 1) 桂平路689 号，近钦江路 2) 江湾城路99 号3 号楼1-2 层, 近殷 高东路 3) 常熟路88 号，近长乐路 (400 868 3000)
SinoUnited Health is a leading medical service provider based in Shanghai. Their team of medical specialists are selected from both abroad and China, and renowned for their excellence and rich experience in their respective fields of medical expertise. Shanghai-wide appointment center (400 186 2116, sinounitedhealth.com.cn, contact@ sinounitedhealth) 1) Shanghai Center Clinic, Suite 301, 601 West Tower, Shanghai Center, 1376 Nanjing Xi Lu, by Xikang Lu Open Mon-Sat, 9am-6pm, Sun, 9am-12pm 2) Gefei Center Clinic, Medical, Dental and Endoscopy Center, 3/F, Gopher Center, 757 Mengzi Lu, Open Mon-Sun, 9am-6pm 3) New Bund Clinic, Medical and Surgical Center, 255 Dongyu Lu, by Qirong Lu Open, Mon-Sun, 9am-6pm 4) Zhangjiang Clinic, Medical and Dental Center, 1/F, 268 Xiangke Lu, by Baiye Lu Open MonTue, 9am-6pm, Thu－Sat, 9am-6pm 5) Century Park Clinic, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, 1717 Huamu Lu, by Fangdian Lu Open Mon-Sat, 9am-6pm; 1) 南京西路1376号上 海商城西峰办公楼301室601 室, 近西康路 2) 黄浦区蒙自路 757号歌斐中心 3层 304-307室 3) 浦东东育路255号 S7号1-3层，近 企荣路 4) 浦东祥科路268号佑越国际 1层 5) 浦东 花木路1717号御翠园内，近芳甸路 54 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
DeltaHealth is a foreign-funded healthcare provider based in Shanghai. Operating in Qingpu and Changning, DeltaHealth provides a range of comprehensive healthcare services including 24/7 ER services, preventive health, general practice, emergency, internal medicine, surgery, orthopedics, thoracic, gynecology, pediatrics, ophthalmology, rehabilitation, medical imaging, traditional Chinese medicine and more, to people living in East China and beyond. DeltaHealth hospital has also maintained a strategic collaboration with Columbia Heart Source, with a focus on cardiovascular care. 1) DeltaHealth Clinic: 5th Floor, Building B, 2558 West Yan'An Road (Next to Grand Millennium Shanghai HongQiao, in Shanghai Workers' Sanatorium) Open Mon-Sat, 8.30am-6.00pm 2) DeltaHealth Hospital: Xule Road, Xujing Town, Qingpu District, Open 24/7 1） 上 海市青浦区徐乐路109号 2）上海市延安西路2558 号B座5层 (上海虹桥千禧海鸥大酒店旁，工人疗养 院内) www.deltahealth.com.cn (400 821 0277)
Jiahui Health's an international healthcare provider operating in several downtown locations. Our integrated network includes an international hospital with 24/7 emergency services and a Rabies Prevention Clinic, two medical clinics, a wellness center, and a team of internationally trained physicians. Our services include: emergency care, OB/GYN, family medicine, surgery, pediatrics, dermatology, dentistry, rehabilitation, clinical psychology, and CT/MRI imaging diagnostics, among others. 1) Mon-Sun, 24 h, Jiahui International Hospital, 689 Guiping Lu, by Qinjiang Lu 2) Mon-Sat, 9am-6pm, Jiahui Health (Yangpu), 1F/2F, Suite 3, 99 Jiangwancheng Lu, by Yingao Dong Lu 3) Mon-Sat, 9am - 6pm, Jiahui Health (Jing’an), Suite101, 88 Changshu Lu, by Changle Lu (400 868 3000) 1) 桂平 路689 号，近钦江路 2)江湾城路99 号3 号楼1-2 层, 近殷高东路 3) 常熟路88 号，近长乐路 (400 868 3000) www.jiahui.com/en
BEIJING
Beijing Lianbao > Unite 1C, Building 7, Xingfu Yicun Xili, Chaoyang District 朝阳区幸福一村 西里7号楼1C (6415 8001, 138 1093 6118, hanxingyue1127@126.com)
Middle 8 Restaurant 中8楼 An oasis at the top of Taikoo Li, Middle 8 is the go-to destination for fresh authentic Yunnan cuisine. The restaurant, stylish yet understated, has plenty of flavorsome wellpriced dishes and a killer view to boot. > Raffles: Daily 11:00am-10:00pm, 5 Floor Of Raffles shopping center Dongzhimen Dongcheng District. 来福士店 : 东城区东直门来福 士购物中心 5 层 8409 8199/8409 8234 > Indigo: Daily 11:00am-10:00pm, Jiuxianqiao Road No.20 Indigo F2 , Chaoyang 朝阳区酒仙桥 路 20 号颐堤港 2 层 8420 0883 > Sanlitun: Daily 11:00am- 10:00pm, 60 Meters Of No. 6 Building Sanlitun South Road Chaoyang District. 三里屯店 : 朝阳区三里屯南路 6 号楼南侧 60 米 6595 9872/6593 8970
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HOTEL NEWS BEIJING
SHANGHAI
The Peninsula Beijing Invites Guests to Celebrate the Winter Holidays with Exquisite Afternoon Tea
Celebrate the Festive Season in Style at Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
Through the month of December, the Peninsula’s renowned traditional afternoon tea is enlivened by the special flavors of the season. Delicate savory sandwiches served on the trademark silver-tiered stand are complemented by strawberry and cream cheese mousse, chestnut, rum and chocolate truffle cake and a matcha macaron Christmas Tree. The Valrhona Guanaja Yule Log with white chocolate brownie brings the sweetness you won’t want to miss. Served daily at The Lobby from November 17 to December 31, priced at RMB358 per person or RMB458 (including one glass of champagne) and RMB588 for two persons or RMB788 (including two glasses of champagne). Additional 15% surcharge is not included in the price.
Celebrate the magic of the festive season at Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund, a hotel renowned for its classical heritage and timeless elegance. Whether you are planning for a romantic holiday, a warm family gathering, a memorable Christmas party, or catching up with old friends, Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund is the place to be. Salon de Ville and Peacock Alley will be serving a festive afternoon tea set from November 26, 2020 to January 1, 2021, featuring an array of seasonal treats such as red velvet Christmas hat cake, pumpkin cheese mousse, mini stollen and turkey mascarpone mousse.
Revamped Menu Introduced by JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Shanghai Pudong’s Specialty Concept Restaurant Flint
Enjoy a Traditional Turkey Dinner at Beersmith Holiday season is here and it’s time to start planning your end-of-year gatherings with friends and loved ones. To help you celebrate in style, the Traditional Turkey Dinner is back at Beersmith. Available for dine in or takeout, they’ve got you covered with 5-6 kilogram birds cooked to perfection, plus delicious traditional sides and trimmings that will make it feel just like home. Beersmith’s experienced chefs will prepare an authentic Western holiday spread: Each set includes a whole juicy turkey for 6-8 people carved just the way you like it. They’re helping you keep things simple with tasty sides like chardonnay-glazed baby carrots, sauteed Brussels sprouts with bacon, roasted purple sweet potato and more. Don’t forget to book at least 24 hours in advance (available from November 1 through December 31). RMB1,288 for dine in and RMB988 for take out. All orders above RMB1,000 will enjoy complimentary delivery within Beijing’s 5th ring road. Call 8647 1098 to book.
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Just in time to celebrate its first anniversary, Flint has upgraded its Chef’s Menu with a creative culinary concept of ‘simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,’ offering a refreshing take on the classic American dining experience through a reinterpretation of the popular grill & bar that flourished throughout mid-19th century New York. Take the restaurant’s crowd-pleaser, Tomahawk steak, as an example. After 28 days of dry-aging, the acidity of the meat dropped significantly, resulting in a perfectly balanced texture with increased tenderness. In addition to a selection of charcoal-grilled cuts of beef, the menu also features seafood, seasonal delicacies, side dishes and desserts, such as its signature fire roasted seafood, seared scallops and chorizo, Australian beef tenderloin tartare, crab bisque, tooth fish and butterfly spring chicken. Flint is open for dinner service at 5.3011pm daily. For inquiries and reservations, please call 021-3809-8550 or visit jwmarriottmarquisshanghai.com.
SHENZHEN
GUANGZHOU
Festive Delights at Catch, 100th floor of Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou Blessed with sweeping Pearl River views and three-window seats for couples, Catch offers an intimate and spectacular setting for holiday gatherings. Chef Jeffrey has prepared a selection of delectable dishes using fresh seafood and other premium ingredients. Take your loved one up above the sky, and enjoy a remarkable and romantic dinner with a starry night view at Catch. The Romance Set Dinner starts from RMB2,588 and includes a five-course set dinner and a bottle of wine. (*It is subject to a 15% service charge and applicable government tax.) For reservations, please call 86 (20) 8883-3300. Wonder Wheel Afternoon Tea at The Lounge at JW Marriott Shenzhen Bao'an From November 28 to February 28 next year, start the fantastic journey with JW Marriott Hotel Shenzhen Bao’an. When Christmas meets the spectacular ‘Ferris Wheel’ afternoon tea, enjoy the fantastic deliciousness in the festive season. Inspired by the new landmark Ferris Wheel in OH Bay, the lounge presents a series of stylish desserts and pastries.
TIANJIN
Live it Up at The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin’s ‘Luxurious Ancient Egypt Afternoon Tea’ Rhythm of Snow Christmas Buffet Dinner at Sessions A limited-time Christmas buffet offer only from December 24 to 26 is waiting for you this holiday season for a rock ’n’ roll Christmas celebration! Try everything you can possibly imagine in the newly upgraded Hard Rock wellknown weekend buffet, including a shawarma and rotisserie station, new and improved salad and sushi bar, exclusive children’s corner with Hard Rock signature mini burgers and hot dogs, plus free flow of house wine and a complementary add-on of a half-pound lobster (Price: RMB538 for one adult and one child under 1.4 meters).
The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin welcomes you to their unique ‘Luxurious Ancient Egypt Afternoon Tea’ experience. Indulge in three tiers of sweet and savory treats in the elegant ambiance of the Lobby Lounge.
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 57
SCHOOL NEWS SHANGHAI
Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong Students Own What They Eat Global hunger and food waste are major global problems. Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong (DCSPD) student activists were determined to raise awareness about this issue so DCSPD’s Own What You Eat (OWYE) series was born. The inaugural event was held on November 14 and featured student service projects such as the Clean Plate Challenge which ran over two weeks in the dining hall and resulted in 20% less food waste across all three schools. The OWYE initiative will continue throughout the academic year with events to raise awareness about sustainability in line with the school’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi Officially Approved as SAT Test Center Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi has been officially approved as an accredited SAT test center. Although proudly British in their heritage, Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi have a diverse student body with global aspirations. DCI students graduate ready to make an impact worldwide, going on to continue their education at universities around the globe. Many Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi students consider the United States for their choice of university. “As we prepare for our first cohort of IB students here in Puxi, we are deepening our commitment to those families considering a pathway to the United States by becoming an officially accredited SAT testing center.” This is great news for the whole community.
BEIJING ‘Have to Dance’ at Wellington College International Shanghai At Wellington College International Shanghai, pupils from years 3 to 13 took to the stage on October 29-30 for the school’s annual ‘Have to Dance’ competition. Pupils busted a groove in a variety of styles, such as traditional Chinese, Indian, hip-hop, K-pop, ballet, fusion, contemporary, Latin and show jazz. This year’s revue reflected the rich diversity of the Wellington community school and underscored the fact that dance truly is for everyone.
House Week A Huge Success at BIBA
NAIS Pudong Secondary Sports Day NAIS Pudong campus was bursting with energy during their Secondary Sports Day. A day like this is a true testament to the inclusiveness, teamwork and friendly competition that exists at NAIS Pudong among their four Houses – 道 Dao (The Way), 德 De (Integrity), 礼Li (Dignity) and 气Qi (Energy). 58 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
Each House at BIBA has its own name, color and interpretation. The name of the Houses are taken from the Five Constants of Chinese Confucian culture and has a special connotation. In addition to academic courses, the department will hold a House event every week, and school sports competitions and largescale events will also be organized by the college. In this special House Spirit Week cultural week, they replaced competition with cooperation, and shared and supported the multicultural aspect of the Houses.
GUANGZHOU
UISG Students Shine in Debating Competition Congratulations to Utahloy International School Guangzhou students Selena, Jessica, Peter, May and Dariush who were awarded the ‘Best Debater’ prize for their outstanding performance at this year’s Zongheng Cup International School Debating Competition. This year’s competition attracted 82 international school debating teams from all across China. UISG is exceptionally proud of their student’s performance in this year’s event.
BSG Open Day Another One for the Books On November 14, The British School of Guangzhou hosted an Open Day for new families to explore their South Lake Campus and take part in a range of activities, including STEAM, music and dance.
FOSHAN Foshan EtonHouse Goes Virtual in Massive Education Event
AISG’s Compassionate Learning a Key Focus AISG is a leader in providing compassionate learning. Compassionate learning allows students to project their best selves and help everyone feel like they belong. AISG has proven that happy learners are productive learners. For instance, a ‘Caught You Caring’ board was created to have students praise others on sticky notes when they are caught caring at AISG. (Rumor has it Cindy has been caught caring quite a lot!) Another great example is the creation of ‘Be the ‘I’ in Kind,’ a beautiful interactive art piece that serves as a positive reminder for all students.
Dressed to Impress at CIS Pumpkin Day Fairies, wizards, superheroes, dinosaurs, pumpkins, princesses and more! The CIS campus was abuzz last month with kindergartners all the way up to Grade 12 students dressed to the nines for Pumpkin Day!
Foshan EtonHouse took part in a wonderful virtual event on November 6 to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the EtonHouse International Education Group. The event was attended by over a hundred schools, with everyone joining together from all over the world to celebrate this wonderful event and the amazing family who started this inspiring story 25 years ago in Singapore. Founded as a revolutionary, inquiry-based approach to education that supports and nurtures each and every child, the EtonHouse International Education Group has grown to 120 schools in 12 countries around the world. Foshan EtonHouse is now in its fifth year and has grown rapidly; providing outstanding British education for children from the age of 2, all the way up to 18. Foshan EtonHouse says its proud to be part of this wonderful group and to share in its outstanding success.
ZHUHAI ZIS Making Real Life Connections
Students will learn many things within the classroom, but it is often somewhat disconnected to the outside world. Therefore, any opportunity for students to transfer/ learn about the outside world is fantastic. Year 5/6 are learning about science and the scientific method. By using Skype, students had the experience of talking to a real scientist. The scientist explained how the scientific method worked in their practice and the importance of fair testing. This session concluded with students having a chance to ask questions about their inquiries. The questions will then further their learning.
WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | DECEMBER 2020 | 59
That’s
DECEMBER
Horoscopes
Finally, a horoscope that understands your life in China. By Rakini Bergundy
11.23~12.21
12.22~1.20
Capricorn
Aquarius 1.21~2.19
2.20~3.20
Stuck in a rut? It’s time to finally try that kizomba, pole dancing, or soccer class. You’re in a different country after all, find your true self and do what makes you happy (even if that means playing mahjong until 3am).
You go out every weekend to the same bar and keep running into the same party friends who give you the side eye (#frenemies). Switch up your routine. Go out of town for the weekend, go see an art exhibition, learn to cook.
Pick up the phone and call your friends from back home. It’s been a long time. You may wonder if your friends have forgotten you, but in reality nothing has changed.
Grinning and saying ‘ting bu dong’ isn’t cute anymore. Please learn some basic Mandarin survival skills, try asking for a teacher in WeChat groups. Everybody’s got a recommendation.
Sagittarius
Aries
Taurus
Gemini
Pisces
Cancer
3.21~4.20
4.21~5.21
5.22~6.21
6.22~7.22
Christmas came early! Good news is coming your way, perhaps your boss will let you have more than three days off for Christmas and New Years? Here’s looking at you, kid.
Alright, you may not be home for the holidays this year but look at it with the glass full: You are saving lots of kuai . And, Chinese New Year is within reach so you’ll get a big chunk of holiday… soon.
If you haven’t had 2020 vision this year, then it’s time to book yourself lasik surgery. Did you know it’s almost more than 50% cheaper to get it done on Hainan instead of the big city? Just putting it out there.
Buying plants for your home is one thing, but taking care of them is another. Learn to slow down, read how they’re doing and water accordingly.
Leo
Virgo
Libra
Scorpio
7.23~8.23
8.24~9.23
9.24~10.23
10.24~11.22
You will receive some great news this month. Just make sure to write your Chinese address properly, or at least save it in your notes.
You’re not interested in dating, but you miss the banter. Try heading to a rock climbing gym, apparently cute expats hide there.
You always feel like you’re late. It’s probably time to buy a second-hand e-bike and scoot your worries away.
Don’t brag to coworkers about the old man who heckles you on your way to work. He honestly just yells at everyone.
60 | DECEMBER 2020 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM
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