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Issue 237 1 May 2015
EVERY TWO WEEKS
T h e M a g a z i n e T h at K n o w s
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CONTENTS
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06
08
05 Editor’s Letter
What’s In The kids’ gear from Petite C is not only cute, it’s also a bargain!
06 hot tickets Dine and Design
14 Feature
Scrummy food plus the latest trends from local designers at the Dine and Design Festival.
Mamma Mia! Four moms tell us how they juggle their busy lives—and just what they keep in their purses.
08 Wishlist About Town Hustle up—online store Zalora has a brick-and-mortar pop-up in town ‘til June.
Lookbook Head of custom-shoe company Caballero, David Siu lets us in to his wardrobe.
Beauty and Wellness It’s all about intense cycling workouts at Pure’s new Lan Kwai Fong studio.
42 mrs. Know-it-all We be Strollin’ A light, compact, foldable stroller for Hong Kong? It is possible!
50 HIDDEN GEMS Hap Mun Bay Thailand? Pah, simply take a sampan out to Sai Kung’s Sharp Island paradise.
KNOW & TEL
Momspiration p.22
Secret Weapons p.26
Mom ‘n’ Baby Time p.30
Family Eateries p.34
Party Planners p.38
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Th e M aga z i n e That K n ow s
HK Magazine media
Editorial
Part of HK Magazine Media Group
Editor-in-Chief | Luisa Tam Managing Editor | Daniel Creffield
302 Hollywood Centre, 233 Hollywood Road,
Senior Editor | Kate Springer Editor | Charlotte Mulliner
The List Magazine Media Ltd.
Hong Kong Tel: 852-2850-5065 Fax: 852-2543-4964 Email: thelist@hkmagmedia.com
Staff Writers | Andrea Lo, Evelyn Lok Contributor | Erica Lyons
Production Production Manager | Blackie Hui Art Director | Pierre Pang Designers | Elaine Tang, Tammy Tan Production Supervisor | Kelly Cheung
Finance Finance Manager | Karen Tsang Senior Accountants | Alex Fung, Freda Chau Internal Compliance Officer | Lucy Wong Accountant | Winson Yip Assistant Accountants | Coa Wong
Advertising & Circulation Director of Sales | Gary Wong Strategic Sales Director | Jan Cheng Senior Sales Manager | Joyce Wu Senior Advertising Manager | Kent Ma Advertising Manager | Dominic Lucien Brettell Advertising Executives | Bonita Yung, Celia Wong, Harriette Cheung, Lamy Lam Advertising & Marketing Coordinator | Yan Man
ONLINE Online & Social Media Manager | Katie Kenny Web Developer | Timothy Cheng
Editorial
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Copyright 2015 The List Magazine Media Ltd. The contents of The List are the property of The List Magazine Media Ltd. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited. The List may not be distributed without the express written consent of The List Magazine Media Ltd. Contact the Advertising Director for ad rates and specifications. All advertising in The List must comply with the Publisher's terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, N.T. Before you decide to purchase or use the products and/or services that our magazine introduces, you should gather further information about the same in addition to the representations or advertising contents in our magazine. The contents in articles by guest authors are the author’s personal views only and do not represent the position of our magazine or our company. Please gather further information about the products and/or services before you decide to purchase or use the same.
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Editor’s Letter
Mom’s the Word This issue of The List is dedicated to all you moms out there—give yourselves a round of applause just for being you. I consider every one of you to be a supermom. If, like me, you’re nosy by nature, you’ll enjoy reading our feature Mamma Mia (p.14), to find out how four Hong Kong moms juggle their busy lives. Then we’ve got everything you need to help you become the best supermom you can be: from handy Momspiration (p.22) and nifty Secret Weapons (p.26) to Mom ‘n’ Baby Time (p.30) and Party Planners (p.38). Looking to give your kitchen a rest? Book in to one of these Family Eateries (p.34) this weekend. So here’s to you, moms everywhere. Grab a coffee, put your feet up and have a read. You deserve it!
Do you like our new look? The talented creative team at The List has been working hard to redesign some of your favorite pages. We’ve also added new content! Check out: • Date Night (p.7) reveals the hottest new bar and resto openings • About Town (p.8) brings you fashion picks, hot openings and “List Loves” • Get the Look (p.11) helps you attain perfection with our beauty tips • Mrs. Know-It-All (p.42) shares her infinite wisdom with you • Hidden Gems (p.50) helps you discover a new side of Hong Kong
I’d love to hear from you! Email me at charlotte.mulliner@hkmagmedia.com or follow us at www.facebook.com/TheList.HongKong
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Flagship Designer Showroom: 1/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau. 2877 3295 www.tequilakola.com
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Hot Tickets
Make a Date Our picks for the month
May 1-3
Eat, Shop and Be Merry The Dine and Design Festival offers up the best food the city has to offer, plus lots of cool gear from local independent designers. Make your way around the New Central Harbourfront, sampling foods from the likes of Rummin’ Tings and Butchers Club and browsing through the racks of What the Frock and Rumi Yoga Wear. May 1-2, 11am-9pm; May 3, 11am-8pm. New Central Harbourfront
May 2
May 8-9
Dance like it’s 1995
Shop For a Cause
Victor Ma and Mandy Yim make up one of Hong Kong’s longest-established contemporary dance groups, Y-Space, which celebrates its 20th birthday this year. Catch “On & On & Turn Turn Turn,” a dizzying retrospective of the past 20 years including the inaugural 1995 classic “None of Your Business,” blended with video and installation art.
Love designer swag, but hate the hefty price tags? Fashion charity initiative Luxarity is hosting a designer charity sale, featuring clothes and accessories donated by models, socialites and business leaders around town, including Amanda S. of patisserie Petite Amanda (pictured). Proceeds will go to a number of Hong Kong charities, including the Women’s Foundation, Mother’s Choice and the HKUST Connect program, which helps students to get involved with local NGOs.
May 2, 8pm; May 3, 3pm. Kwai Tsing Theatre, 12 Hing Ning Rd., Kwai Fong. $120-200 from www.urbtix.hk
PMQ, 35 Aberdeen St., Central. www.luxarity.com.
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Hot Tickets
May 15-June 21
Music to Your Ears
May 31
Classic musical The Sound of Music graces the Hong Kong stage this May. Coming straight from the West End’s Palladium Theatre, the international tour of this old-school Rodgers and Hammerstein production has teamed up with the HK Youth Arts Foundation to cast Hong Kong children to play the Von Trapp kids. You’ll be 16 going on 17 all over again. Snag a family ticket package—prices start at $1,888 for two adults and two children.
Girl Power
Lyric Theatre, Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Rd., Wan Chai, 2584-8500. $395-995 from www.hkticketing.com Photo: Patrick Bromilow-Downing, Catherine Ashmore and Pauld Coltas
date Night!
It’s time to lean in: the upcoming TEDxWanChaiWomen is all about the ladies. It’s got an awesome lineup including former Chief Secretary Anson Chan and Women’s Foundation CEO Su-Mei Thompson, plus speakers livecast from the global TEDWomen conference. 11am. Hong Kong Arts Centre, 2 Harbour Rd., Wan Chai, 2582-0200. www.tedxwanchai.com
La Paloma La Paloma, meaning “pigeon” in Spanish, just opened its doors in Sai Ying Pun to serve the tasty bird and other scrumptious Spanish staples in a vibrant, colorful 3,400-square-foot space at SoHo 189. This is chef Willy Trullas Moreno and chef Alex Fargas’ second project in Hong Kong, the first being FoFo by El Wily in Central. The restaurant features an asador: a clay roaster that can handle suckling pigs, lamb and other hearty meats. 189 Queen’s Rd. West, Sai Ying Pun, 2291-6161
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WishList
ABOUT TOWN
Life in the Hong Kong lane with Charley Mulliner Clicks and Mortar
pop-up shop
If you’re anything like me, you’ll love the ease of shopping online, and the bargains you can often find, but hate the disappointment that follows when clothes don’t fit. That’s why I’m really excited about the news from online fashion haven Zalora: it’s opening up a temporary brick-and-mortar store in Causeway Bay. The pop-up shop will be around until the end of June and will showcase the spring/summer collection from Zalora’s own label as well as high street brands such as Dorothy Perkins, Miss Selfridge and River Island. See you there! Through June 30. Shop 316, 3/F, Windsor House, Causeway Bay.
Bee Trendy Ethical clothing is all the rage right now but I’ve never seen a range as cute as this Save the Bees line from J.Crew. The delightful T-shirts for women ($480) and children ($280) are designed by New York-based illustrator Donald Robertson, who was one of the founders of MAC Cosmetics and is now well known by his Twitter handle @drawbertson for his celebrity sketches. Back to the Tees: 50 percent of all sales will go to Buglife, a UK charity dedicated to the conservations of bees and other insects. Shop 1026, 1/F, IFC Mall, 8 Finance St., Central, 2628-5611, www.jcrew.com
List Loves
Hot product
Laykh Lovin’ Hong Kong handbag designer Kashish Hemnani has just launched her new collection of leather purses under her label Laykh. The “Compact Contrasts” range was inspired by some of the city’s fashionistas such as photographer Sabrina Sikora and blogger Jasmine Smith. I love the feel of these bags—the leather is imported from leading tanneries in Italy and Singapore, with everything then handmade here in Hong Kong. These are updated classics that you can dress up or down as you please. From $XX. www.laykh.com
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WishList
LOOKBOOK David Siu started out as a customer of Taiwanese custom shoe company Caballero, but his passion for the brand led him to launch a branch in Hong Kong. Now he’s the operations director. David tells The List what he can’t live without. 3/F, 2 Queen Victoria St., Central, 2947-2881, www.caballeroshoes.com
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1. Nespresso Indriya Indriya is my favorite Nespresso flavor because it has a nicely rounded bitterness, and it’s very aromatic.
2. IWC Watch I bought this watch for myself and it’s very handy. The needles are precise, and I like the wide, white watch face.
3. Caballero Shoes
down to achieve this layered, shaded effect. Usually it needs about three to four layers of dye.
4. Leica D-Lux 5 Camera I love bringing this camera with me whenever I travel. It’s light, handy, and can fit right in your blazer or trouser pocket. I prefer taking monochrome photographs, and Leica is excellent at shooting in black and white.
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5. DSquared Wood Fragrance I have a ton of perfumes at home, and this is the one I’m using now. I think my addiction to fragrances is probably hereditary; my parents both love perfumes too. I don’t care a lot about the brands, but I like this one because of its wooden design—wood is my favorite material.
The dye is painted directly on the finished shoe and then slowly polished
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WishList
Beauty & Wellness Your guide to looking fit and fabulous
Nurturing Mother-to-be Experience
Tried and tested
The Test Subject: Charley Mulliner The Treatment: If you thought soothing massages and spa treats were a no-no now that baby’s on the way, think again. Sense of Touch has designed a range of treatments designed for pregnancy that involve an extra level of care and pampering, plus use chemical-free and organic products. The Nurturing Mother-to-be Experience ($900) is a full-body massage using the Renewing Rose Body Velvet from Aromatherapy Associates. The Experience: I had visions of finding belly-shaped holes in the treatment beds to accommodate the growing baby bump, but thankfully no such indignity. The therapist ensures you receive an all-over massage, all while either lying on your back or by shifting from side to side (a cushion is placed between your legs or under your hips for maximum comfort). The best part? A gentle tummy rub that felt like it was being passed directly on to the little one. The Results: After a long day at work I was fully in need of this hour-long escape, and came away feeling like a little bit of weight (if that’s even possible any more) had been lifted from me. The Takeaway: It’s often hard while juggling work, home life and baby appointments to find time for yourself—this is the perfect opportunity to catch up on a little “you time.” Sign up for five Nurturing Mother-to-be Experience massages before the end of May and receive a free, limited edition Renewing Rose Body Velvet from Aromatherapy Associates. Various locations including 1-5/F, 52 D’Aguilar St., Lan Kwai Fong, Central, 2526-6918
hot opening
Pure Perfection Hong Kong’s fitness empire is doing it again: Pure Fitness has just launched a new cycling and workout studio that’s set to wow you. The 270-degree Immersive Fitness studio in the new California Tower location will be offering Les Mills classes boosted by cinema-quality video and music for workouts that sound more than a little bit trippy—think cycling crossed with video games crossed with Ibiza. The first program to launch will be “The Trip,” an intense biking workout that should feel like you’re actually climbing hills and cutting around corners. If only you could just virtually break a sweat…. Opening rates TBD. 18/F California Tower, 32 D’Aguilar St., Central, 8200-0032, www.pure-fitness.com
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WishList
Get the Look: Dewy Skin Positively Luminous
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Fantastic Tints
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The new Giorgio Armani Luminessence CC cream is out to revive tired complexions by pumping the skin with hydrating and camouflaging ingredients such as Moringa oleifera plant extract and Vitamin E for a radiant, rosy result.
tinted moisturizer works triple-time: protecting, hydrating and concealing skin all in one go. It’s meant to give you a naturally glowy look and the lightweight texture is ideal for the heavy Hong Kong humidity.
$480, www.armani.com/hk
$420, www.lauramercier-meala.hk
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Ready, Set, Repair
Laura Mercier’s award-winning
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Hey, Sunshine
La Mer’s Reparative SkinTint goes beyond the call of typical BB duty with SPF30 and sheer coverage that lasts all day, while simultaneously improving the look of dull, tired skin. The product is powered by deepocean red algae and lime tea concentrate— apparently two ultra-effective ingredients.
Get your glow on and protect your skin at the same time with Skin Essentials Suntegrity sunscreen: a vegan, mineral-based moisturizer packed with SPF30. The formula goes on smooth, and the tinted version works beautifully as both a makeup primer and an all-day moisturizer.
$850, lamer.com.hk
$405, gourmetskinbar.com
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WishList
WHAT’s IN Petite C www.petitec.com.hk
Fleece Jacket $180
Sleeveless Dress $220
Striped Shorts $130
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Cotton Romper $140
WishList
Denim Jacket $249
Baby Onesie $125
Fleece Blanket
Kimono Set
$275
$180
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Mamma Mia Time with the children, time for work, time for yourself: just how do you fit it all in? Erica Lyons spoke to four stylish moms about their juggling acts. Because, let’s be honest: we are dying to know how everyone else does it!
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cover story
Nealy Fischer Nealy is the founder and director of lifestyle and wellness company Mayya Movement. She is mom to four children: Ben, 13; Eitan, 10; Ayla, 7; and Liam, 2.
Photos: Ramond Photography
The List: How do you organize your life? Nealy Fischer: I look at time in terms of my day,
my week, my month. I have a busy schedule day-to-day with activities that include cooking and testing recipes, working on finishing up a cookbook, managing a social media platform and writing. I also have my family. Things are managed according to urgency and priority. I try not to use time/energy on ‘shoulds’ and instead focus on ‘wills’. I also have a personal mantra: Let go—“Inhale, let. Exhale, go.” The List: What is your biggest challenge as a mother? NF: Being able to take time out to care for
myself. My work requires me to constantly take care of other people. I think we all need to take better care of ourselves. We need to have down time and that is something that is very
Left to right: Jamie Wenker, Reika Shetty, Kara Arnaudy and Nealy Fischer
hard to do in Hong Kong. Going to a yoga class isn’t downtime. It’s important but we all get caught in this idea that we need to do something constantly in this frenetic city. The List: What advice can you give to other moms? NF: Try to enjoy your life more. Take time to pause and be grateful. We need to look at all the things we are trying to do and instead of trying to do everything, we need to learn to focus on what is most important. When you try to do everything, you set yourself up for failure. The List: What’s in your handbag? NF: I always have my iPhone and my charger. The charger allows me to stay on the go without having to worry. I also always have a set of yoga clothing with me, a bottle of my favorite sunscreen and, of course, a bottle of water too. Talk about branding!
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Reika Shetty Reika is the co-founder and chief creative of maternity boutique Mayarya. She is mom to son Arya, 3, and 2-year-old daughter Maya. The List: How do you organize your life? Reika Shetty: I keep my schedules and to-do list
on my iPhone and check it throughout the day. After becoming a mother and a business owner, I started planning farther ahead. For example, if I know that my children will wake up at 7am, I will put my alarm on for 6:30am to get up and get ready so that I can start my mommy duty from 7am until I drop them off. The List: What is your biggest challenge as a mother?
The List: What advice can you give to other moms? RS: Balancing our busy lifestyles in the world of instant technology isn’t easy. Try to focus on the priority at that moment. I think it’s important to take
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The List: What’s in your handbag? RS: I always carry my iPhone, house, store
and office keys, and wallet—and my son’s toys. He likes to take small cars and superheroes to the school bus stop and play there with his friends until the bus arrives. It’s been a great experience because it’s taught him the art of sharing.
Photos: Melanie Aldridge Photography
RS: Making the most of the time I get to spend with the kids and not feeling down that I can’t be with my children as much as I would like. In order to achieve this, when I am at work, I focus all my energy so that I can try to finish the tasks at hand and go home before they go to bed.
baby steps towards reaching equilibrium. The commitment [to this goal] is very important so if you think you don’t even have time to go to a yoga class, try to spend as much time as possible with your children over the weekend or become more efficient at work/home so you feel good about spending time on yourself.
cover story
Photos: Ramond Photography
Jamie Wenker Jamie owns Polkadot Boutique, which curates stylish collections from emerging designers. She is a first-time mom to 4-month-old Maxwell. The List: How do you organize your life?
The List: What advice do you have for other moms?
Jamie Wenker: Becoming a mother has been such a
JW: Well, especially for new moms, try not to go
completely incredible experience but I have learned that everything is a balancing act. I never was a very regimented person but now I have to be. I put myself onto a schedule by first getting my baby onto one. I set the time I spend with him into my day. I decide, for example, that I want to be home for a particular feed and then I plan my day around that. Having a structure has really helped me.
into it with expectations about what you thought life with a baby would be like. You need to flexible and not put too much pressure on yourself. There are so many great people in Hong Kong and so many great resources to help moms. Look for those and make sure you have a great support network too.
The List: What is your biggest challenge as a mother? JW: I admit that I struggled for the first few
months. I had to learn that I couldn’t do everything and I had to learn to delegate. I needed to give myself permission to begin to rely on my support network. My husband and my son come first. Then there’s career, friends and myself. I think that in trying to be good moms, we tend to put everyone else first. I am trying to slow down and take time for myself. The other day I went for a massage that I had received as a gift for my baby shower. I didn’t realize how much I needed it!
The List: What’s in your handbag? JW: I always carry the practical things like a credit
card and my iPhone. I also always have a pen with me and lip balm and my mascara too. Talking about changing roles, I always have a burpee [burp cloth] with me now these days too.
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Kara Arnaudy Kara is the founder of popular Facebook group Hong Kong Moms. She is a mother of four: 8-year-old Owen, 7-year-old Callum, 4-year-old Elodie, and Amelia who’s just 1. The List: How do you organize your life? Kara Arnaudy: The only way for me to be organized
is to stay on top of things and be in front of everything as much as possible. I make lists and check them constantly so I don’t forget anything! I use the Cozi app but still haven’t been able to abandon my weekly planner. The List: What is your biggest challenge as a mother? KA: I worry about the millions of little decisions I make every day that have a cumulative effect. I wish I could see into the future to know if they were the right choices. Being a mom is the toughest and most important work in the world! We are all doing our best without a manual while juggling everything else at the same time. The List: What advice can you give to other moms? KA: I don’t want to be presumptuous and assume
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KA: Apart from the usual suspects such as my indispensable iPhone, planner and wallet, it would have to be hair bands! I have good intentions of looking glamorous but I always end up wearing my hair back. That being said, I have discovered that hair bands can have some other creative applications!
Photos: Ramond Photography
that I can offer any magic solutions! We are all dealt a different deck of cards. As long as you put family first and mix in a lot of love and patience then you are doing something right.
The List: What’s in your handbag?
WANTED:
THE LIST AMBASSADOR If you are an avid reader of The List, have a flair for fashion and marketing, and are a passionate supporter of charitable causes, there may be a place for you on our team. The List is currently recruiting an individual who knows the magazine inside out and wishes to be a part of the team as a List Ambassador. As an Ambassador, you will be a voice for the magazine, promote it to our various clients
and organize unique events to market The List brand. Ideally, you will be from a sales, marketing or PR background, possess good knowledge of Hong Kong’s entertainment and hospitality industry and be affable and outgoing in nature. For more information, please contact The List Editor Charlotte Mulliner: charlotte.mulliner@hkmagmedia.com.
Know & Tel 22-24
Momspiration 26-28
Secret Weapons 30-33
Mom ‘n’ Baby Time 34-36
Family Eateries 38-41
Party Planners
Contact us: On the following pages you’ll find a huge array of practical information. We cover more than 200 topics a year. Tell us what you need to know! Email: thelist@hkmagmedia.com
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Know & Tel
Momspiration Help at your fingertips
Accidental Tai Tai
Jill Carter Photography
A parenting blog by the former editor of Sassy Mama, Kate Farr, Accidental Tai Tai promises “family, food and far-flung fun.” Whether you’re looking for family-friendly reviews of Hong Kong restaurants, a guide to the city’s sights with the kids in tow, or the low-down on useful gadgets and where to get them, this site doesn’t disappoint. With content that’s regularly updated, you can also be assured of current information.
month—so if you haven’t logged on yet, you should. You can find a wealth of expert advice here on topics as varied as breastfeeding, bathing, crying and teething. There’s also an active community forum, useful and entertaining blogs from moms and an in-depth product section with honest reviews. All the info on the site is free, and there’s also a range of free apps to download so you can have everything you need at your fingertips.
www.accidentaltaitai.com
www.babycenter.com
BabyCenter
Geobaby
With all the handy pregnancy and parenting information you could wish for, this website should be every mom’s go-to resource. The international site claims to reach 40 million moms and pregnant women each
This popular Hong Kong forum is a great interactive resource for moms and moms-to-be. Topics range from organizing meet-ups to getting a place in kindergarten to how to throw a kids’ party at home. Geobaby also posts regular lifestyle feature stories, lists the latest Hong Kong social events and even hosts a “barely used marketplace” for useful (and expensive when new) things such as maternity clothing, baby carriers and car seats. The site is part of the same group as Geoexpat and Geoschools.
This Facebook group has become something of an internet phenomenon among expat moms looking for friendly advice on any topic under the sun. Set up by mother-of-four Kara Arnaudy, the forum now boasts over 15,000 members and receives hundreds of posts a day—so if you’re just going for a browse, be sure to have lots of time to spare! The moms on here are very helpful and active so if you are seeking any information on motherhood in Hong Kong, have any to offer, or simply want to share a funny story, this is the place where you’ll find support by the bucketload.
www.geobaby.com
tiny.cc/HongKongMoms
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Helen Scott, of Mango Menus
Hong Kong Moms
Know & Tel
Mango Menus
Scary Mommy
Started by expat Helen Scott while on maternity leave, Mango Menus is a product of one mother’s avid passion for cooking. This attractive website boasts a wealth of recipes containing healthy, nutritious ingredients all sourced in Hong Kong and accompanied by attractive, hunger-inducing photos. You’ll also find a helpful series of guides devoted to food shopping in the SAR—from where to buy organic veg to meat shopping, buying on a budget and more. We love the healthy series of kiddy recipes too, including the “Yummy Mummy” or the “Slummy Mummy” lunchbox planner!
If you “wear panties that don’t easily get in a wad,” then this humorous, tongue-in-cheek blog written by moms, for moms, is for you. Started by stay-at-home mom Jill Smokler in 2008, the blog gained such popularity that it’s now a full-fledged blogging website that accepts posts from a range of writers. You’ll find a bank of entertaining and amusing topics such as: “24 Lies Parents Tell Their Toddlers” and “9 Murphy’s Laws of Newborns,” all handily divided up into tabs charting your child’s (and your own!) development stages. www.scarymommy.com
www.mangomenus.com
Janet Lansbury Former model and actress Janet Lansbury trained as a child educator with the Resources for Infant Carers (RIE) after struggling to raise her first child. Influenced by the practices of Magda Gerber’s nonprofit organization, Janet has since put her wisdom and training into a blog as well as teaching, to help inspire as many other mothers as possible. You’ll find a series of well-informed, well-argued articles on parenting that are broken into categories such as types of behavior (“crying and tantrums” and “discipline”) or infant/ toddler development (“creativity” and “toilet training”). A really useful resource based on theory, put into practice.
Mumsnet
www.janetlansbury.com
www.mumsnet.com
The UK’s largest websites for parents, run by parents, Mumsnet has gained a large following thanks to its outspoken and well-respected opinions. This is a true encyclopedia of community knowledge, featuring information that covers topics as varied as breastfeeding, choosing a nursery, treating head lice and the best juicers. You’ll find excellent, researched advice here as well as an active forum if you want to have your say. There’s also a separate bloggers’ section, featuring great writing on parenting, politics and everything between.
Mango Menus
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Know & Tel Today’s Mama Although this is a great resource for parents in the US, Today’s Mama offers a wealth of inspiration for moms around the world with its well-stocked archives on food, crafts, lifestyle, parenting and pop culture. The site features some 160 guest bloggers who bring you their ideas, experiences and solutions for achieving that all-important work-life balance. The
fun and creative writing makes for really entertaining reading. www.todaysmama.com
What The Flicka Add a bit of sparkle to motherhood with a few celebrity tips, courtesy of What The Flicka—a sassy website for busy moms from Desperate Housewives actress Felicity Huffman. Each month
Felicity hands over to guest editors who set a theme for their bloggers and contributors (for April it was Helen Hunt with “Letting Go”). You’ll find sections dedicated to food, parenting, lifestyle and more, with fun bits such as quirky quizzes to establish your parenting style, hump-day cocktails and weekly book clubs. www.whattheflicka.com
School’s in Session Getting into the school of your dreams can be a real challenge in Hong Kong. The List gets the lowdown from Gill Keefe of Jones Lang LaSalle about playground rumors, entrance interviews and debentures. The List: What is it that you do? Gill Keefe: I work with all our families
who are moving to Hong Kong and who are looking for an international school for their children. In the “old days,” people used to decide where they wanted to live first and then choose the school. Now the schooling options dictate where the family may choose to live. The List: What’s this we hear about school applications before birth? GK: There are so many rumors
around Hong Kong, and one of those is that you can apply to schools before the child is born or even when the parents may only be thinking about children! In my experience, in order to register at any international school you need the minimum of a birth certificate. The List: What is the most important thing a parent can do to get into their school of choice? GK: Do your research! Call the school
and go on a tour. Read the website and understand the applications and admissions processes. Some schools you can only apply to say one or two
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years before your expected date of admission; some you can apply to from birth. Some schools run their waitlists based on date of application, so applying early clearly has benefits. The List: What are schools looking for in their entrance interviews? GK: This very much depends on
the school and the age of the child. Most international schools will offer group assessments for the younger year groups to see how the children interact with each other, share toys, respond to teachers, and so on. Formal interviews rarely happen at younger ages so practicing interview techniques will be wasted for most international schools. Getting a child on play dates and used to playing with other children will be far better time spent for an international school assessment. The List: Should we dress them to impress? GK: Most schools also recommend
that you don’t dress the child in smart or formal clothes that he may not have worn before. Let them wear something comfortable and
familiar and they are more likely to be relaxed and happy. Most schools are not necessarily looking for “Einstein” but looking for bright, happy, communicative children. The List: What surprises expat parents the most about the system? GK: Debentures! These are generally
for capital investments in the school that are separate to tuition fees. Some schools have compulsory debentures, however within the school there may be different types. Some may be personal, which are usually the cheapest, and would generally be purchased after [the child has] been offered a place. Others may be corporate and may be purchased once the place is offered, or alternatively, if the company already has a corporate debenture then the school may give a priority to the student who has been nominated by the company to that debenture. The student candidate will still need to fulfill the entrance criteria of the school. The List: Any final tips? GK: Read the small print about the
fees to make sure you know exactly what you are taking on in terms of not only annual fees, but debentures, laptop fees, school trips, school meals and bus fees. If you have more than two children, most schools will give a discount to younger siblings. Learn more at www.jll.com.hk.
Know & Tel
Secret Weapons Little life-savers
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1. Babyzen Yoyo Stroller
3. Innobaby Teethers
5. Sabina Swims Lola Halter
Ideal for infants to 3-year-olds, the Babyzen Yoyo pram is light, compact and even the right size for air travel. Thanks to an easy collapsing mechanism, you pack up your buggy in seconds and carry it with a shoulder strap— especially helpful in Hong Kong.
Have a teething baby on board? We feel for you. Try these award-winning Innobaby Teethers to soothe your babe’s achy gums and maybe buy yourself a few quiet moments. $88 from Baobae, www.baobae.com
The last thing you need on vacation is to lose your top while carting around little ones. Plump for a Sabina Swims camo-print Lola halter-neck—and pick up a matching suit for your baby girl while you’re there.
4. Lucas’ Paw Paw Ointment
$1,190 from Sabina Swims, www.sabinaswims.com
$5,799 from Tiny Footprints, www.tinyfootprints.com
2. Gusella Rain Jackets You never know when a typhoon will touch down in Hong Kong: enter the reversible and water-resistant Mosca rain jackets from Gusella. They come in cute colors and will stand up to those unpredictable summer storms. $1,880 from Gusella, www.gusella.com
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As any Aussie mother knows, Lucas’ Paw Paw Ointment is pretty much magic. It’s an all-in-one solution, and can help with everything from nappy rash to sunburn, bites to burns. And it makes for great lip gloss too! $68 from Mannings, www.mannings. com.hk
6. Robot Headphone Splitters If you have just one device but two eager kids, plug in one of these handy headphone splitters. After all, sharing is caring. $120 from Baobae, www.baobae.com
7. Cath Kidston Foldaway Bag We’re loving the vibrant floral market bags from Cath Kidston, which can fold
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into a tiny square and leave room for more important things in your carryall. The magnetic fastener is a nice touch too, so you’re not scrambling with buttons or zippers. $145 from Cath Kidston, www.cathkidston.com
8. Nature’s Bounty Gummy Vitamins If you can’t get the kids to finish all their peas, then you might go the route of gummy vitamins. Nature’s Bounty has a yummy brand of Ester-C Gummies, which are chock-full of Vitamin C to strengthen the immune system and keep colds at bay. $199 from Nature’s Bounty, www.naturesbounty.com
9. Spacebox Have toys and hand-me-downs cluttering your cozy flat? Rent out a Spacebox so all those outgrown clothes and shoes have a new home. Once you store your stuff, you can access it again by using the mobile app and same-day delivery service. From $49 per month, www.spacebox.com.hk
10. Madison Tote Who says a diaper bag can’t be beautiful? The leather Madison Tote fits all your essentials into neatly organized compartments that are shaped to carry diapers, creams and bottles. Plus it comes with a waterproof changing mat.
11. Predict Nursing Scarf
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This practical yet fashionable nursing cloth works overtime: it acts as a cover-up so you can discreetly breastfeed, and can also be worn as a regular-old scarf or as a wrap to carry lil’ bub. $350 from Mayarya, www. mayarya.com
$1,950 from Tiny Footprints, www.tinyfootprints.com
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Know & Tel
Feeling Appy The age of the pen and pencil is no more! These handy apps should help streamline your busy family life. Artkive If you’ve run out of space on your fridge but can’t bear to throw away those first scribbles, then download Artkive: an app that allows you to snap and then archive (“Artkive–get it?) photos of your kids’ artwork. Functions then allow you to share their little masterpieces on social media, or upload them to Artkive and get a professional-looking hardcover book delivered to your door. US$4.99. www.artkiveapp.com
Cozi If you find it impossible to keep track of all your family members’ whereabouts, you may want to try out Cozi, a free app that will manage your family’s music lessons, birthday parties, lunch dates and office meetings all in one place. You can also create and share grocery, to-do and chore lists on the move,
plus your dinner ideas and recipes. Everyone simply signs in with their own email address and you all share a password. Free. www.cozi.com
LittleHoots Kids say the darndest things but how long will you be able to remember those tear-inducingly hilarious moments? Cute invention LittleHoots is a quick way to capture the comical quotes and observations you want to remember forever. The app provides a selection of (fairly cheesy) greetingcard-like templates, or you can simply archive them with a photo. Free. www.littlehoots.com
It can be tricky getting to grips with your newborn’s feeding schedule, so Philips Avent has come up with a solution: My Baby & Me, which allows you to log and track your little one’s feed and sleep patterns. You can input time of feed, which breast you’ve used (not as easy to remember as you’d think), and the total duration of the feed; for bottle moms, you can also record the intake of fluid each time in ounces. Extra functions include weight, height, medication and diaper change trackers. Free. www.philips.com
The Wonder Weeks
MSecure Having to conjure up multiple, lengthy passwords is now an unavoidable yet irksome fact of online living. MSecure is a nifty piece of software that will store all your personal information, account numbers, usernames, passwords and more—and keep them secure for you in organized, easily searchable folders. Its “Blowfish” encryption service has never been cracked and if you’re ultra-paranoid, there’s even an optional self-destruct function if someone incorrectly enters your password. How very James Bond. US$19.99 from iTunes. msevensoftware.com
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My Baby & Me
Your newborn’s first few weeks are the most precious—but do you fully understand them? The Wonder Weeks app keeps you in the know about the mental leaps and bounds of your bub, with knowledge grounded in 35 years of scientific research. Don’t know why your mini-me is clingy, cranky and crying? This app will fill you in. It gives you a personalized chart of your baby’s mental development, explains how their comprehension progresses and offers other useful parenting tips. $15 from iTunes. www.thewonderweeks.com
Know & Tel
mom ‘n’ baby Time Learn and play together
A Mother’s Touch Run by two professional doulas and therapists—Kathy Kitzis and Liz PurnellWebb—A Mother’s Touch offers a range of essential pregnancy and childbirth services including pre- and postnatal massages. But the center doesn’t stop its services at birth: you’ll also find a range of mom-and-baby classes such as Yoga4Baby. These sessions include baby massage, to help you connect with your newborn and alleviate problems like teething and disturbed sleep.
topics such as teething, adapting to a helper, sleep training and starting solids. 17/F, Tak Woo House, 17-19 D’Aguilar St., Central, 2983-1558, www.annerley.com.hk
4/F, Capital Commercial Building, 26 Leighton Rd., Causeway Bay, 2201-4518, www.letterland-hk.com
Baby Circuit
Room 202, 18-20 Wyndham St., Central, 9769-2701, www.amotherstouch.com.hk
Annerley
Baby Buddies
Annerley is a well-established company made up of a team of maternity and early childhood professionals. In addition to midwifery, services include individual consultations regarding prenatal care, the postnatal period and the early years of parenting. Of particular help to new moms are the Baby & Breastfeeding Clinics, held twice a week on Monday and Thursday mornings (11am-12:30pm; $250 per class). Informative talks are also included in these sessions on
Baby Buddies is a pre-school institution that runs groups for kids starting from 3 months old, with several venues around the city. It adopts the Early Years Foundation Stage learning program from the British National curriculum, which helps your kid develop a well-rounded preparedness and confidence in skills such as communication, literacy, and mathematics, as well as expressive art and design. The center offers parent-
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accompanied playgroup sessions, independent kindergarten classes for kids aged 3-6, as well as a range of extracurricular activities to help your baby build essential skills. Buddies is also about to launch its latest Sheung Wan branch for the 2015 academic year starting in August.
Sarah, the founder of Baby Circuit, leads post-natal exercise classes that focus on circuit training. And there’s no need to worry about finding a babysitter while you workout: for the duration of the class, your little one can make new friends on the mat next to you while you tone up and sweat it out. There are several locations around Hong Kong, including Sai Kung and Happy Valley. Classes are limited to 10-12 moms, so be sure to reserve ahead. Also ask about the small group personal training sessions and book in with your friends. 9220-0285, www.babycircuit.com.hk
Know & Tel South China Athletic Association in Causeway Bay. 2575-6279, www.harrywright.com.hk
Hong Kong Pre-school Playgroup Association
Matilda International Hospital runs informal classes for new moms
The HKPPA is an umbrella organization that links several playgroups, preschools and kindergartens across Hong Kong. It emphasizes learning through play, encouraging children to explore at their own pace and make their own choices and discoveries. City Kids (formerly Borrett Road Playgroup) is an HKPPA kindergarten for children from 3 months to 6 years old. The kindergarten offers an English-speaking environment, however children enrolled at the preschool will get to join in a Putonghua language program twice a week. Parental involvement is encouraged, and there are even parent-and-toddler playgroups (for kids 10 months to 3 years old) that are lots of fun. 2522-4446, www.hkppa.org
Kate’s Kids
Harry Wright International Established in 1975, HWI ensures that children reach their potential in swimming with instructors and coaches who monitor every child’s performance. In the Infant Aquatic Programme, infants get their feet wet with the help of mom or dad. The lessons will cover submerging, as well as swimming basics like floating, kicking and pulling. The instructors encourage early introduction with programs open to kids from 4 months up to 4 years old. Classes take place at several locations, including Kellett School in Kowloon Bay, West Island School in Pokfulam, and the
Also known as Kindermusik by Catherine, Kate’s Kids recently celebrated its 16th anniversary. Founded by Catherine Leung, the programs provide babies and children with musical exposure and engaging activities according to age groups: there’s singing for 18 months old and younger; combined singing, dancing and music for 18 months to 5 years old; and more focused music lessons for 5- to 7-year-olds. It has six branches across Hong Kong. 21/F, Coda Plaza, 51 Garden Rd., Central, 2501-4842, www.kindermusik.hk
Matilda International Hospital The Matilda International Hospital holds informal gatherings every Friday morning (10-11:30am) aimed at young parents with newborns to 1-year-olds. Healthcare professionals will lead discussions to help quell any concerns that new parents might have, from their baby’s sleeping issues to immunization to early play and development. Upcoming classes include “Introducing Solid Foods” (May 8) and “How to Choose a
Baby Carrier” (May 15). Refreshments and toys are provided, so feel free to bring the kids along. No booking necessary. $90 for a single visit; $450 for a package of six visits. 41 Mount Kellett Rd., The Peak, 2849-0357, www.matilda.org
Nest 4 Mums Nest 4 Mums is a not-for-profit weekly baby clinic, held every Tuesday from 2:30-4:30pm in Central. An acronym of “Nurture, Education, Support & Treatment”, the clinic is run by a group of experienced paediatric and holistic practitioners who offer a wide range of advice to mothers and moms-tobe alike. Drop in and have your baby weighed or to discuss any issues with the team of experts. Mothers-to-be and partners are also very welcome. There are also regular talks and discussions on a particular issue by experts in their field. Each session is $100 to cover refreshments and venue costs. No appointment necessary. Room 2001, 20/F, Car Po Commercial Building, 18-20 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, 9769-2701, www.nest4mums.com
Pekip Pekip, a recognized program from Germany, has created over 100 imaginative activities and games to help parents give quality time to their small babies by teaching them how to play together. We love the sound of “Fun with Feathers” tacticle stimulation session as well as the “Baby Hammock Swing” exercises. During “Naked Time for Babies,” the tots swing free in the wind and can move in a safe, temperature-controlled environment. Ages range from 6 weeks to 10 months. 7/F, Ming Tak Building, 101 Wan Chai Rd., Wan Chai, 2573-6623, www. pekip.com.hk
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Know & Tel Sensational Baby Set up by mom and teacher Kathryn Eagle, Sensational Baby runs classes that focus on stimulating your little one’s senses. The 45-minute sessions focus on developing babies’ eyes, ears, sense of touch and movement—all while they’re socializing and interacting with each other. Activities will work on motor skills with a range of movements and stretches, as well as their sense of rhythm and musicality.
It’s not just for the babes either—these classes are a great way for moms to make new friends too. It costs $200 a session with a maximum of 10 participants so be sure to book ahead. Leapfrog Kindergarten & Playgroup, 11 Pak Tam Chung, Sai Kung, 2791-1540, www.sensationalbabyhk.com
Spring Learning Centre The beautiful, Scandinavian-inspired surrounds at Spring Learning aim to extend beyond the typical classroom. Perfect for newborns and children up to 3 years old, Spring Learning’s programs include neurophysiological development, sensory integration, nutrition discovery and physical competence. The 9,000-square-foot center in Wan Chai includes a large kitchen, café, relaxation areas, cool tree houses, and even an indoor gym. Spring Learning Centre, 3/F, Centre Point, 181-185 Gloucester Rd., Wan Chai, 3465-5000, www.spring-learning.com.hk
Summer time at
Giraffe Spray Pool
$299
Boutique yoga studio The Yoga Room runs mom and baby yoga lessons, which aim to connect you and your baby—plus teach you how to care for your post-natal body. A free trial class is offered to HKID holders, while drop-in classes are $280 each. Various packages are available; for $2,000, you’ll get 10 classes over a three-month period. 3/F, Xiu Ping Building, 104 Jervois St., Sheung Wan, 2544-8398, www.yogaroomhk.com
Sun Shade Pool
Swimwear
$325
$299
Sand & Water Toys
Princess Tent
Wahu - The Big O
from
$275
$165
(Princess or Pirate)
Mustela Sun Care Range
Zoggs Swim Jackets
Babycook RID & MikeSolo Mossie Insect Repellents
from
from
from
$150
The Yoga Room
$398
$66
from
$320 Crazy Golf
$175
Pedder Building Store 5/F Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central T: 2522 7112 Horizon Plaza Store 21/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau T: 2552 5000 Stanley Plaza Store 2/F Stanley Plaza, 23 Carmel Road, Stanley T: 2555 6318
www.bumpstobabes.com
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Know & Tel
Take Five: Tutors For petite polyglots: Want your child to master the art of linguistics? Kameleon Languages offers a range of foreign and native-level classes for toddlers and up. Founded by veteran French teacher and teacher trainer Maria Mallet in 2012, Kameleon teaches by allowing kids to hone their linguistic skills through different activities, such as fun arts and crafts. Classes from $3,000 for 10. 5974-5897, www.klanguages.com.
For budding Picassos: If your kid is seriously into the arts, check into Àlazizi Artventureland, which runs a series of workshops for kids between 3 and 12 years old. They will work towards final projects, honing skills such as organization and problem-solving, and come away with a brimming e-portfolio. From $1,600 for four sessions.10/F, Lee Roy Commercial Building, 57-59 Hollywood Rd., Central, 2815-2866, artventureland.com
For tiny rock stars: Best Music Academy has got you covered. With a warm, family-friendly environment, BMA offers early childhood music lessons (from infants to 3 year olds) that cover violin and piano lessons. Classes start at $300. Unit D, 18/F, Hennessy Apartment Building, 48 Percival St., Causeway Bay, 3644-5045, bestmusicacademy.com
For pre-school scholars: Woodland Pre-schools offers traditional or Montessori approaches in English and Putonghua—or both. It also offers fun extra-curricular clubs for students and non-students aged 3-7, as well as admission interview skills sessions. From $2,990 for 14 interview skills sessions. Three locations including: 3 Red Hill Rd., Red Hill Plaza, Tai Tam, 2525-1655, www.woodlandschools.com
Need some general academic help? The team of English-speaking tutors at Wiseowl Private Tutoring can swiftly help your children wrap their heads around difficult concepts, from preschool to secondary level, with programs covering everything from math to creative writing. Classes start from about $250 per hour. www.wiseowl.com.hk
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Know & Tel
Family Eateries Feed the pack
3/3rds Serving up organic soups and salads, this spacious hipster haven is located within an industrial building in Wong Chuk Hang—a perfect family spot smack bang in the middle of the area’s galleries. The eco-friendly address uses recyclable cutlery and focuses on serving healthy, fresh fare such as its popular roasted aubergine, salad boxes and crispy pizzas. In case you’re keen to multitask, the furniture here is on sale so you can shop and eat to your heart’s content. Shop 22D, Yally Industrial Building, 6 Yip Fat St., Wong Chuk Hang, 3462-2952, www.three-3rds.com
Artichoke Canteen Sharing its space with art gallery Toof Contemporary, Ap Lei Chau’s Artichoke Canteen serves up healthy dishes in its stylish indoor and outdoor space. Much of its menu is vegetarian friendly, but even the carnivores in the family can be kept happy
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with the chicken and fish dishes on the menu. Kids will stay busy doodling with drawing pads and color pencils at their disposal, or they can also play on the al fresco terrace. 3/F, Harbour Industrial Centre, 10 Lee Hing St., Ap Lei Chau, 2580-0293, www.fb.com/artichokecanteen
Cafe Deco Bar & Grill The Peak’s longstanding outpost of the Cafe Deco Bar & Grill boasts a dedicated children’s corner complete with interactive games on LED screens, books, puzzles, toys and mazes: a blessing for parents. The Sunday brunch menu ($488 for adults) includes free-flow wine, and offers a spread of international delicacies. Kids between 3 and 11 can color up a storm on the decorative kids’ menu, while also choosing from classy kids foods, such as salmon quinoa cakes with mushroom risotto. 1-2/F, The Peak Galleria, 118 Peak Rd., The Peak, 2849-5111, www.cafedecogroup.com
Charlie Brown Café What child can resist the cute Snoopy characters adorning this upstairs café?
Other than statues of Charlie Brown and his ragtag group of friends strewn across the coffee shop, you’ll also see the motif all over its food—Woodstockshaped tea cakes anyone? Signature dishes include an array of burgers and sandwiches (starting from $52), all-day breakfasts ($158), and also a slew of different finger foods. G-1/F, Kok Pah Mansion, 58-60 Cameron Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2366-6315, www.charliebrowncafe.com
Dan Ryan’s Chicago Grill A Sunday family dining institution in Hong Kong, the Chicago-style bar and grill Dan Ryan’s has been a long-time local favorite for anything from casual dining affairs to birthday meals. It’s not hard to see why families love it: kids and adults alike will delight in atmosphere, from the kooky mounted buffalo heads to the working toy locomotive that circles the bar ceiling.
Know & Tel
Shop 11, 1/F, Brim 28, Causeway Bay Centre, 28 Harbour Rd., Wan Chai, 2877-3552, www.divinogroup.com
Limewood
Cafe Deco Bar & Grill
The eatery also offers a kids’ menu with eight failsafe dishes, including hot dogs, and spaghetti with meatballs (from $60). And the icing on top? Birthday party or not, the staff will shower kids with balloons and crayons on every visit. Shop OT 315, 3/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, 7-27 Canton Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2735-6111, www.danryans.com
DiVino Patio
Kids Eat Fo Free! r
Kids under 5 eat for free at DiVino Patio, but that’s not what makes it one of the most popular family-friendly brunch spots in town. At $368, parents can enjoy a full carnivorous feast with unlimited steak, chicken, porchetta, goat, rabbit, and more while the rug rats have fun in the coloring and play zone. Better yet, add on free-flow wine for only $98. Vegetarians will enjoy a buffet of grilled vegetables, jacket potatoes and Portobello mushrooms. At the same time, little ones under 12 can choose from a choice of pasta and pizza—that is, if you can tear them away from the ice cream wagon.
Maximal Concepts’ latest venture is a beachside barbecue restaurant set against the seaside promenade at The Pulse. With its surf-inspired décor and open-air layout, it’s a perfect spot to deck out for an afternoon with a couple of margaritas while watching the kids run about in the sand nearby. Limewood serves up Asia-fusion fare: think grilled sea bass with lime, pork skin chicharrón with guac, and the signature Vietnamese fish tacos. Shop 103-104, The Pulse, 28 Beach Rd., Repulse Bay, 2866-8668, www.limewood.hk
Tree Café
Kids Survive a family outing to Eat Fo Free! r Horizon Plaza by taking a breather at homeware stalwart Tree, which actually has its own in-store café. Beautifully designed (as you might expect), the airy space is a great spot for a pick-me-up while the little ones burn some energy in the play area. All kids eat for free here, and can also get a complimentary baby-cino and mini cupcake on their visit.
sandwiches, bagels, salads and soups to scrumptious baked goods. Children can play with a plethora of toys, coloring mats, books, and comics. The little ones can also explore a school playground adjacent to the café after 4:45pm on weekdays and all day at weekends, for $20 each. 119 Caine Rd., Central, 2549-9718, www.rosiejeanscafe.com
Zuma
Kids Zuma is known as a classy Eat Fo nightlife hotspot by night, Free! r but it also offers a fantastic Japanese-style brunch brimming with fresh seafood, sushi and soba noodles along with your choice of main. Best of all, for every adult at the table, a kid younger than 10 gets to eat for free. And in case they get tired of all the grown-up talk at the table, there’s a kids’ corner set up with the latest cartoons. 5-6/F, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Rd. Central, 3657-6388, www.zumarestaurant.com.hk
28/F, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing St., Ap Lei Chau, 2870-1582, www.tree.com.hk/cafe
Rosie Jean’s Cafe Touted as the first-ever kid-friendly eatery in Hong Kong, Rosie Jean’s in the Mid-Levels caters to the before- and after-school rush, serving up breakfast and light snacks. Choose from fresh
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Photo: SCMP/Edward Wong Peng Chau
Take Five: Hot Dates It’s not all about the kids. Find a moment for yourselves with these perfect time outs.
1/F, Langham Place Hotel, 555 Shanghai St., Mong Kok, 3552-3510, www.chuanspa.com.hk
Island Hop
Knead Your Love
The kids are with the nanny, the household chores are all taken care of—time to get away from it all. Catch the slow boat to Peng Chau at Central Pier 6. Once on the diminutive isle, head to Les Copains d’Abord, a charming alfresco French restaurant not too far from the waterfront. Order a few glasses of wine and a cheese platter to share. After dinner, stroll along the picturesque waterfront or ferry your date back to Central for a nightcap. 46 Wing On St., Peng Chau, 9432-5070
You’re the Chuan Indulge in a champagne, milk, or red wine bath with your partner in a VIP suite at the Langham Place Hotel’s Chuan Spa. The suite comes with a personal Jacuzzi, platter of seasonal fruits and all the “fiveelement tea” you can drink. The experience lasts 30 minutes but if you want to extend it, you can tack on another half hour or splurge on some more spa treatments. Afterwards? Check out The Backyard, a classy outdoor bar where you can
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keep the wine bath flowing.
Want to spend time with your partner while learning something new? Bake up a storm at The Mixing Bowl, which offers cooking classes from around $450 per head. Sweeten things up at the “Mad About Matcha” class ($500 per head), which teaches you to make baked coconut and green tea donuts and matcha swiss rolls. If you’re looking to take things up a notch, you might want to go for the saucy-sounding pizza and chocolate class ($450 per head). Knead away… 5 Shin Hing St., Sheung Wan, 2524-0001, themixingbowlhk.com
Stuck in Amber The Landmark Mandarin’s Amber has just been voted the sixth-best restaurant in Asia, so treat yourself and your other half with a private dining room reservation. Amber’s fivecourse platinum menu is a decadent celebration of black perigord truffle: priced at $2,688 per person, it’s overflowing with fancy ingredients,
in the best sense. Highlights include raw Normandy scallop with kelpcured wagyu beef, and roasted veal sweetbreads with a fondue of P’tit Mosellan cheese, all including delicate truffle shavings. Top it off with a Burgundy and grand cru wine pairing, for $1,588 each. 7/F, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen’s Rd. Central, 2132-0066
Make Your Own Art Arts and crafts are not only for the little ones. Indulge in your creative side at Oscary Eco Art, where you can make your own miniature garden. A three-hour session is $200 per head, which includes plants, a container, acrylic paint, polymer clay and tools, plus access to the pantry. You’ll have a cute, living souvenir of your date to take home with you afterwards. Shop 1D, Au’s Building, 15-19 Hollywood Rd., Central, 2964-9111, www.facebook.com/ Oscary.wine.and.art
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Know & Tel
Party Planners Your fête accompli
Amber Events Amber Events was founded by Chincia Harvey, who has been in the event planning business for over 10 years. The party planning company has put together birthday parties, corporate Christmas events and a battle of the bands series, as well as charity fundraisers, so you know you’re in good hands here. 9852-9722, www.amberevents.hk
Bespoke Parties Events planner Bespoke Parties offers exactly that—a customized soiree produced to suit your needs. Think personalized invitations, extravagant table settings and more. Consider
adding a sweet bar to your party— Bespoke Parties specializes in them, loading them up with homemade cupcakes, sweets and desserts. www.bespokeparties.com.hk
Eezy Peezy Parties Throwing a party with the help of Eezy Peezy is as much of a breeze as the name suggests. Simply head to the company’s website, where you can settle everything in just a few clicks: send invitations, buy party supplies, hire entertainers, rent a venue and book catering. Post-party follow-ups are just as convenient, as the website lets you send thank you cards and share photos. 2580-2530, www.eezypeezyparties.com
Fête Meaning “celebration” in French, Fête is all about extravagance. If you want your venue impeccably decorated—think balloon sculptures and elaborate floral arrangements—and have some money to spare, Fête is the event planner for you. The firm specializes in birthday parties—it has been responsible for milestone
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Eezy Peezy Parties
celebrations—as well as social corporate events, like office parties. 9885-6255, www.fete-eventplanner.com
House of Siren For the past 20 years, House of Siren has been a whimsical outlet for creativity. It’s one of the city’s best costume creators, as well as serving as a private events venue. Walking past the reception’s modern granite bar and catering kitchen into the
Know & Tel Party Planner This company prides itself as an “ideas creator,” that will cater to your needs in crafting your dream event. The team has tons of experience under its belt in planning parties and events, including themed parties, surprise parties, bachelor and bachelorettes, and even marriage proposals. 9874-1461, www.partyplanner.com.hk
Sweet Soirées
Bespoke Parties
flamboyant Salon Rouge is like falling through the looking glass. Think Victorian boudoir, with a Chinese twist. Many of late founder Greg Derham’s favorite pieces remain: towering cabinets salvaged from a 19th-century hospital showcase costumes, while a glittering mosaic signboard anchors the room. The venue holds 120 standing spaces and 50 people for dinners, and is suitable for private parties, corporate events, film screenings and musical performances. 64 Robinson Rd., Mid-Levels, 6718-7079, www.siren.com.hk
Little Miss Party
Not sure what exactly you want in a party? Sweet Soirées has you covered. The locally based party planning company was founded by Hongkonger Lauren Roberts in 2011. The party planner does birthdays, weddings and everything in between. The team will take care of designs and decoration, hair and makeup, custom-made cakes and everything else that makes a dazzling event. If you’re not too keen on taking care of the logistical side of party planning, Sweet Soirées also helps with budget planning, catering and bar services, sourcing and supplier coordination, as well as transportation arrangements.
Little Miss Party
2818-5870, www.sweetsoireeshk.com
Tiara The team at Tiara is dedicated to creating memorable weddings as well as parties that are designed according to the customer’s unique preferences. In addition to being experts in attire, music, cakes and decorations, Tiara places its emphasis on budget management and sources materials from suitably priced vendors so that you don’t have to worry about spending a fortune.
Sweet Soirées
2840-0401, www.tiara.hk
Specializing in themed parties, Little Miss Party has a team dedicated to throwing quirky, twee celebrations. The company has planned plenty of fun parties in the past, including pop starthemed and mermaid-themed parties, as well as—of course—a “Frozen” birthday party. Weddings, grown-up birthdays and corporate event planning are also offered. 9125-2984, www.littlemisspartyhk.com
Eezy Peezy Parties
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Taking the Cake Struggling to find that perfect party cake for your little one? Look no further than these great bakers. Cakes by Jane If you’re after fun and colorful themed cakes for a big birthday party, then check out Cakes by Jane. Baker Amanda can make your any wish come true: think “Star Wars” cupcakes, mini Angry Bird bites, Stitch cookies or even decorated marshmallow pops. Got an allergy? Cakes by Jane also caters for gluten allergies and can even create egg-free cakes. Get in touch to find out more about custom creations. www.facebook.com/ cakesbyjane
Citrus Sweets Looking for something extra special? Citrus Sweets’ cakes are a little outside the box. Baker Hema Sakhrani started the operation in her home about three years ago, but since then she’s had to expand to a proper kitchen and a full team. On the cake side, you can choose everything from the topping to the filling to the general theme. For the cupcakes, take your pick of different topping/ base flavor combos such as banana with cream cheese, or vanilla with Nutella buttercream. You can further customize your desserts with special fondant designs on top. www.citrussweets.com
Sweet HK Expat banker Abi unleashes her creative side with her 3D cakes
for Sweet Hong Kong. So whether you’re a fan of karaoke, skiing, football or car racing, Abi will turn your passion into an edible masterpiece. Contact Sweet HK with your orders at least one week in advance and choose from sponge flavors such as red velvet, banana or lemon, with fillings that include ganache, raspberry, or chocolate. www.sweethongkong.com
The Kitchen Faerie Fabienne is a French foodie and blogger (www.thekitchenaddict. com) who has just started up her own cake business as The Kitchen Faerie. She offers birthday cakes as well as her signature chocolate cupcakes that are made with Swiss meringue buttercream. You also don’t want to miss out on her meringue
In all major bookstores now! Or order yours at: www.historicalhkhikes.com
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kisses which look too good to eat: these wispy puffs are crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside and come decorated in many colors. www.facebook.com/kitchenfaeriehk
The Sweet Tooth Fairies Grace Wong and Jessica Juhi Daswani are the two passionate bakers behind The Sweet Tooth Fairies, who have set up a “Julie & Julia” style challenge for themselves—to bake a whole range of cake designs that they’ve picked from cookbooks and the internet. They’re willing to make these at cost price (yup, you read that right) for their hungry clientele, so if you get in touch to see what’s on the list at knock-down rates.
The Sweet Tooth Fairies
The Kitchen Faerie
www.facebook.com/SweetToothFairies Citrus Sweets
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MrS. Know-it-all The List’s very own mom-in-theknow shares her Hong Kong tips and tricks with readers.
Dear Mrs. Know-It-All, I’m expecting a baby in a few months’ time and we’ve just started looking at strollers—but the choice is mindboggling. We’re at a loss! I want something that is small enough to get around Hong Kong, but still looks trendy. Can you help? – Posh Pusher
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Follow The List on Facebook www.facebook.com/ TheList.HongKong As thanks for being loyal readers, we’ll keep you in the know: follow us to find out about the best shops, events and activities. View exclusive discounts and win free tickets to concerts and movies, plus get the chance to be on the invite list to our own happenin’ events. Love it, list it!
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The market for baby products is an absolute minefield, Posh Pusher, seemingly designed to trap first-time parents with flashy yet unnecessary items. The stroller is no exception, but if you do your research first you can bag one that’s right for you. The first question you need to ask is “what do we need it for?” If you will be relying heavily on a car and using wide sidewalks then you can opt for a Bugaboo, Silver Cross or Stokke travel system—pushchair and carrycot combos that are large and sturdy, plus they’re designed in all sorts of pretty colors so you can look the part. However if you’re navigating Hong Kong’s public transport and narrow streets, then you’ll
need something more compact, lightweight and easily foldable. One of the best I’ve seen to suit city life is the Armadillo by Mamas & Papas ($2,500 from www.bumpstobabes.com): it folds with just one hand, has a fully reclinable seat, flip-flop friendly breaks and a large sun hood. It’s suitable for newborns, but it can also clip in a car seat. Another favorite along similar lines is the City Lite by Baby Jogger ($2,500 also from www. bumpstobabes.com)—this is a threewheeler and really narrow, so great for Hong Kong’s congested streets. It also folds up small with one hand and you can buy neat accessories such as a carry bag for airline travel, a child tray and handlebar cup and phone holders. Downside? Despite its name, it’s not actually safe to take jogging. A final steer would be the Mountain Buggy Swift ($4,999, www.bumpstobabes.com) which is built for tackling this urban jungle. Its all-terrain features justify the price jump—three air-filled tires ensure a comfy ride off-road and maneuverability in tight spaces. There isn’t a wide selection in stores here, so if you’re after more options or better prices, plan in advance to buy abroad. Also don’t neglect expat websites as families often offload old strollers at bargain rates. Happy strollin’!
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Business / Classes MATHEMATICS master graduate tutor available 1 on 1 mathematics tutoring available around HK island at student’s home. Mathematics Master graduate from University of Toronto, experienced in tertiary teaching in Toronto and Hong Kong. Teaches from primary 1 to university 1st year Mathematics and Statistics. Free Trial Lesson Whatsapp: 852-6105-0276 or Email: JQWONG1206@gmail.com
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UK origin organic kids food we offer larger variety of products with lower price comparing to HK supermarkets. Email me @ jenny.tung@jademanner.com
Mobile DJ Service for wedding, private, office parties. Offering disco, club, R&B or by requests. Mixer provided. Enquiry 9215-8022, discjockeybill@yahoo.com.hk
Professional Chinese masseur provides men’s spa service in HK. Out-call available also. Mobile: 9162-0179 WeChat ID: mbafahk
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Classes / health & Beauty ACUPUNCTURE EXPERT QUALITY TCM CENTRAL A well-established TCM clinic, QUALITY CHINESE MEDICAL CENTRE, originated from Guangxi, China, is now offering Herbal, Acupuncture, Bone-Setting, Moxibustion and Cupping Therapies in Central. We provide a whole body approach to treat various external and internal issues, such as Detox, liver and kidney strengthening, Pains, Sleeping, Skin, Immune system, Digestive system, and many more. We are for those who want to cure their problems cured from the root, or just want to discover the secret of 5000 years TCM from China. Our Chinese Medicine Practitioners are fully registered in HK, and all have extensive experience from China and HK.
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PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPANIST M.Mus. in Accompanying from Manhattan School of Music Available for: Recital, Competition, Jury, Exam, Recording, and Lesson Please contact Karen for more information 6385-6635/ karen.lau@aol.com www.karenlaupianist.com
DANCETRINITY STUDIO All day classes for Salsa, Ballet, Yoga, Pilates, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tango, Ballroom, ZUMBA and more! See the schedule @ www.dancetrinity.com now! +852 9634-9770
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A professional tennis coach is available for all level and all ages. Fun. Stokes production, get fit and match play. Contact Ganes 6447 – 0905
TENNIS COACH. MOTIVATOR. FITNESS TRAINER U.S. Certified Professional. Stroke production and match play. All ages & levels. Call Larry 9013-8344 / www.acematchpoint.com
Expat Hairstylist The Yoga Room (Yoga & Pilates) We are a boutique Yoga Studio in Sheung Wan offering classes in Hot Yoga, Hatha, Meditation, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Candlelight Yin, Yin Yang, Detox Flow, Pre-natal Yoga, Yoga for kids, Pre-natal Pilates. We also offer yoga private classes at your home, office & our studios. Come and try our 1 free class now! Tel: 2544-8398. info@yogaroomhk.com www.yogaroomhk.com
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Expat Hairstyle from Toronto Canada with 25+yrs experience… 8th yr in Central, HK. Please go to my website: www.hairexpat.com Email or text at Charleslau5@ gmail.com or 9575-3496. I’ll be delighted to hear from you. Nina is an experienced makeup artist and hair stylist, trained in Media and High Fashion Make-up and hair styling. For hair and makeup bookings please contact below Website: www.ninatanner.com Email: nina@ninatanner.com
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Home / ETC self-storage
Hong Kong’s Leading Self-Storage Company • Flexible self-storage facilities • Competitive rentals • No hidden extras • Contents insurance available • 24/7 access • Secure facilities with CCTV
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ELITE MOVERS & HANDYMAN Packing, Moving, Storage, Handyman, Single-Item move, Disposal Service, All kinds of electrical work, hanging curtains, shelves & TV mounting. T: 8209-1793 M: 9811-2053 www.emdhk.com
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Editorial Internship TheList needs you!
If you love The List and think you’ve got what it takes to contribute to the magazine, then sign up for our internship program. Gain an insight into Hong Kong’s media industry and develop and impressive portfolio. The job includes: • Writing listings and articles • Getting out and about and researching the best the city has to offer • Learning about how social media works and writing content for Twitter, Facebook and The List Magazine online No experience necessary, but you will need: • The right to work in Hong Kong (working visa or ID card) • A passion for Hong Kong and city living • Cantonese an advantage, but not essential Please note that only students currently enrolled in tertiary education are eligible for this internship. This is an unpaid position; office hours are 10am-6pm, with lunch break from 1pm-2pm. Please send your CV and covering letter to editorial@hkmagmedia.com 49
hidden gems
Hap Mun Bay, Sharp Island Now is the perfect time of year to get outdoors and enjoy the best of Hong Kong’s natural beauty. Make a beeline for the secluded Hap Mun Bay (Half Moon Bay) on Sharp Island, a long, thin isle just off the coast of Sai Kung in Kiu Tsui Country Park. You’ll find sandy beaches running down into turquoise waters, plus a rocky spit that links to neighboring Kiu Tau when the tide is out. And all of this with a backdrop of lush, green hills. Who needs Thailand? Getting there:
Take a sampan from Sai Kung pier to Hap Mun Bay. It should cost about $40 one way and take around 15 minutes.
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