southside magazine august 2012

August 2012

Nature’sOwn Buying

local is Better

Ladies who launchSouthside entrepreneurs on being boss

VrrrrmNew motoring column

Faux design studio in Ap Lei Chau

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BB+TP+Noel+M5 Sai Kung Magazine FP4C HIRES.pdf 1 12年7月17日下午4:24

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 3

august 2012

"buy the ticket, take the ride. "

The really useful magazine

My sOuthside

58 Southern spiritIntuity World’s Pascale Seiler.

cLassiFieds

54 Local property, holiday letsAnd loads of other random stuff.

bird at My WiNdOW

53 Black-collared starlingDavid Diskin on Hong Kong birds.

MarketPLace

50 Your guide to shops and servicesCool stuff to buy and do.

gardeNiNg

48 Going to marketJane Ram scopes out nurseries.

Pets

46 Ticked off Dr Carmel Taylor’s cure for the itch.

traVeL

44 Northward boundA swing into Beijing.

FaMiLy

40 The StopWhen “granny magic” wears off...

heaLth & beauty

38 Xtend Barre Plus top tips from Southside’s resident PT.

iNteriOrs

32 Vrai ou Faux?Louis Papachristou in his element.

educatiON

36 Understanding ESFThe ins and outs of application.

PrOPerty

30 Colonial classTai O masterpiece reborn.

MOtOriNg

28 A Benz affairKevin Yeung puts the pedal to the metal.

eatiNg

24 Eating greenplus new wine column by Ali Nicol.

Feature

18 Cottage industriesSouthside entrepreneurs on how to be your own boss.

Letters

16 Have your sayBar withdrawals and another satisfied Southside customer.

iNterVieW

14 Going to AfricaAnnabelle Chauncy ditches law school to make a difference.

NeWs

10 What’s going on?New this month: Southside’s beaches get the nod, typhoon madness and more.

the PLaNNer

4 Happening in AugustSports, art and shows galore.

4 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

happening in augustplanner

AUG 2-5MJ RELiVEd 2The King of Pop lives on. The production returns with more Michael Jackson chartbusters, plus guest performance from Grammy nominee Howard McCrary. Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $170-$340 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

AUG 5SpoRTS FoR ALL dAYGear up for the 2012 Olympics — enjoy a series of recreation and sports programme for free! All the 18 district sport centres will adopt an Olympic event as its signature sport in support of Hong Kong athletes at the London games. www.lcsd.gov.hk

AUG 10-11CoNCERT BY ASiAN YoUTH oRCHESTRAThe 100-member orchestra will perform at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre as part of their nine-city concert tour. Tickets $125-$340 from www.urbix.hk. For details, visit www.asianyouthorchestra.com

AUG 11SUMMER pop LiVE CoNCERTBringing out the city’s local talent, this music extravaganza features top local artists performing live at the Hong Kong Coliseum. Tickets $180-$480 from www.urbix.hk.

AUG 11SUMMER MAGiC NiGHTA spectacular Vegas-style magic and juggling show with international performers. Auditorium, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $150-$230 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

AUG 12THE SAXopHoNE JoURNEY CoNCERTA saxophone concert for both, amateurs and aficionados, it includes an ensemble with live rhythm section as well as a special guest BATSax Ensemble. 7.30pm, Auditorium, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $120 from Parsons Music and www.cityline.com, 2111 5333.

AUG 7-21RiCHARd WoNG & CiBoYS SHoWArt show featuring C.I.Boys collectible figurines. Ocean View Court & Exhibition Gallery, Cyberport 3.


august

Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email [email protected]

AUG 25ViVA ELViSWorldwide impersonators, performances and fancy costumes — all for the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s 35th anniversary dinner. USRC, Jordan. Tickets $480 from [email protected], 6032 1899.

ENdS AUG 26oCEAN pARk SUMMER SpLASHGet ready for a cold summer at the park’s new Polar Adventure! Ocean Park, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, 3923 2323. For details, visit www.oceanpark.com.hk.

AUG 31-SEp 2CiNdERELLAThe iconic fairy tale, with a ballet twist. Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui. Tickets $140-$1,000 from www.urbtix.hk.

AUG 31-oCT 6URBAN NARRATiVESA new perspective on contemporary Mongolian art. Schoeni Art Gallery, Old Bailey Street, Central. For details, visit www.schoeniartgallery.com.

AUG 18-19THE MUSiC MANThe Opera Hong Kong Summer School returns with another musical hit this summer. Y-Theatre, Youth Square, Chai Wan. Tickets $180-$250 from www.urbtix.hk. For details, visit www.operahongkong.org.

AUG 20-SEp 1MANA story about a man seeking the philosophy and meaning of life. Have you already found yours? Underground Theatre, Fringe Club, Central. Tickets $50-$100 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

AUG 22-26diSNEYLiVE! MiCkEY’S RoCkiN’ RoAd SHoWMickey Mouse, Donald Duck and company put on a talent show. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $150-$600 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

AUG 24-26CoNCERT iN THE dARkWatch Hong Kong’s top artists perform — in complete darkness. Rotunda 3, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $480-$1500 from HMV and www.concert-in-the-dark.hk.

AUG 25THE BEACH BoYSYes, those Beach Boys — still touring after 50 years. Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. Tickets $588-$1,888 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

AUG 16-20Food EXpoA melting pot of culinary delights from the world over, the fair also has spectacular prizes as well as performances from local artists. Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. For details, visit hkfoodexpo.hktdc.com.

AUG 16-18HoNG koNG iNTERNATioNAL TEA FAiRTea leaves, tea-ware and tea products from around the globe. Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. For details, visit www.hkteafair.com.

AUG 14-28SUMMER iNTERNATioNAL FiLM FESTiVALFrom Hollywood to Bollywood — it’s a celebration of films from around the world.Tickets $40. For details, visit www.hkiff.org.hk.

AUG 20A WoNdERFUL dECAdE dANCE pERFoRMANCECelebrate the 10th anniversary of Nine Lives Dance Company at the Jockey Club Auditorium, PolyU. Tickets $100-$120 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

AUG 24-27CoMpUTER ANd CoMMUNiCATioNS FESTiVALGeek out at this one-stop shop for everything digital. Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. Tickets $20 from 7-Eleven and the venue.

august

Book NoWSEp 6-oCT 6Hk iNTERNATioNAL CoMEdY FESTiVALComedians from East to West and one epic festival — all to make you Laugh Out Loud. TakeOut Comedy Club, Central. For full details, visit hkcomedyfestival.com.

SEp 18-30poTTEd poTTERThe unauthorised Harry Potter experience. All seven books and a quidditch game squished into 70 minutes. Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $395-$550 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

SEp 20THE pRETENdERSChrissie Hynde and the “Brass in Pocket” boys perform live. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $590-$990 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

oCT 12-14THE SNAiL ANd THE WHALEA children’s show based on the popular Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffer book. Drama Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

SEp 21MARooN 5Adam Levine leaves the spinning chair and takes the stage. AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $888 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

SEp 25NoEL GALLAGHER’S FLYiNG BiRdSSongs from Gallagher’s latest album, plus some arena numbers from his Oasis days. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $888 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

oCT 9-14THE MoUSETRApAgatha Christie’s long-running murder mystery comes to Hong Kong for its 60th anniversary. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $330-$850 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.



news

In the worst accident since Ocean Park opened its gates in Aberdeen 35 years ago, the helium balloon ride at the park sprang a leak and plunged a whopping 60 meters to the ground. Five people were injured. Four of the injured were in the balloon during the accident and were treated in Ruttonjee hospital for minor injuries before being released soon after.

The fifth injured person was on the ground when the accident took place, and was taken to Queen Mary Hospital in Pok Fu Lam with head injuries.

The balloon ride is now closed pending an internal investigation into what actually went wrong.

Five hurt in ocean park balloon plunge

Sightings of a rare shark had beach-goers rushing into the waters last month.

The five-meter shark caused alarm when it was first sighted in Shek O (and later Deepwater Bay and Lamma). Beaches were closed and specialists called in. But it was soon identified as a whale shark, which is an extremely rare and peaceful creature — and for scientists, a very welcome visitor.

“Whale sharks are the largest fish on earth, growing up to 12 meters,” says David Lai Yiu-nam, curator of aquariums at Ocean Park. “They are peaceful. They eat plankton, and are not a threat to people.”

A really big fish“It is a swimmer’s dream to

swim with a whale shark,” said Samuel Hung Ka-yiu, marine biologist and chairman of the Hong Kong Dolphin Conservation Society. “We are very lucky to have one visit Hong Kong, since they are an endangered species and there is not much plankton for them in our waters.”

Nonetheless, swimmers may be relieved to hear that after the sighting, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department checked all safety nets on the south side of Hong Kong Island from Deep Water Bay to Shek O. A spokesman confirmed that all the nets were working and there are “no big fish inside the nets”. Happy swimming.

Southside’s got the best beaches

The results are in! On July 20th, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) released their latest grading of water quality for 37 beaches across Hong Kong. Beaches were graded based on the geometric means of E. coli counts on the five most recent sampling occasions.

An impressive nine Southside beaches got the thumbs up for a Grade One or “good” rating out of 23 Hong Kong beaches who made the cut. These were Chung Hum Kok Beach, Middle Bay, South Bay and Deep Water Bay beaches, St Stephen’s Beach, Shek O Beach, Stanley Main Beach, Deep WaterBay

Beach and Turtle Cove Beach.However, a spokesman for

the EPD warned that beach-goers should avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days after a storm or heavy rain, as many beaches are likely to be more polluted than their grades suggest during and after heavy rainfall.

Typhoon VincenteRemembering the great storm of 2012. Pictures by Kevin Yeung and Mandy Lam.


in the know


news extra

our neighbour — the next president of ChinaSouthside got the ultimate endorsement last month when Xi Jinping (China’s next leader) was connected to a $240million property in Repulse Bay.

A stunning, three-story, sea-front villa, in Bellevue Drive, is reported to be among investments owned by members of Mr Xi’s

family. Land registry records show that Mr Xi’s niece bought the villa for HK$150 million in 2009. Property prices have jumped about 60 percent since then, making the owner a tidy $90 million.

However, chances of running into Mr Xi are slim say Jasons’ Marketplace. According

Smarticle Creative Learning Centre, which opened in April of this year, has launched a fun and engaging maths program called Math Monkey. Using Vedic Math principles, Math Monkey teaches children to master complex problems using simple mental steps, slowly building their confidence and motivation to learn mathematics. Expect lots of A’s to come rolling through, best clear the fridge door!

Courses at Smarticle cater to children aged three to 10 years of age. For more information, contact centre director, Carolyn Chow at 2529-2400 or [email protected].

Calling mini mathletes

Playtent Learning Center, now open in Stanley, is getting rave reviews from local parents.The center, which is handily sited on Stanley Main Street, offers a fresh and innovative range of classes for the under sevens. Popular programmes include Little Artists, the English Playgroup, Little Chefs as well as the Oxford Reading Tree.

“Playtent is about joyful learning in a fun and safe environment,” says founder Kyna So. “We focus on small classes (teacher / student ratio is 1:10) and allowing children to discover the joy of creating, learning and communication. We recognise curiosity as an asset

play days

and are here to provide a safe and supportive environment for young, curious minds to flourish and explore,” she adds.

Playtent is open from 9am to 6pm on weekdays and until 1pm on Saturday. Shop B1, Mezzanine Floor, No.18 Stanley Main Street. Hong Kong. For more details, visit www.playtent.com.hk or call 2276 0488.

to the neighbours, the villa has been empty for several years. Southside Magazine drove past a deserted villa last week, with the entrance gate’s bell hanging off — presumably destroyed by the overstimulated paparazzi.

Companies in which Mr Xi’s relatives have invested saw their

BEst in class

stocks boom when reported by Bloomberg last month. No doubt many local property agents will be touting the story as proof that property investment in Southside remains a strong bet. In any event, Southside always welcomes an illustrious and well-known neighbour.

Children can kick off their rugby skills early with the new RugBees programme for children from walking age to five. It aims to teach key motor and social skills, focusing on running, footwork, ball skills, balance, coordination, spatial awareness, confidence and focus. There will be a maximum of 12 children

in each 45-minute class with packages of nine to 11 sessions available ($1,900-$2,150, plus $250 registration). It will be available at the Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club from September, with enrolment starting this month. For details, visit www.rugbees.com or email [email protected].

Busy little RugBees


interviewHigher learningAnnabelle Chauncy quit a career in law to open katsuuso, a school in rural Uganda which helps children in dark situations to realise their bright futures.

i was 21 years old when i travelled to Africa for the first time. I taught more than 80 children from a mud hut in a rural village in Kenya. The children didn’t have uniforms, books, pens, pencils or shoes, and there were only four desks for 80 of them, but every morning they walked for kilometres on empty stomachs to be at school. Then walk kilometres back to their mud hut homes to complete chores; cooking and fetching large jerry cans full of water before studying by candlelight.

it was in kenya that i met my co-founder David Everett, who was also working there. We came back to Australia with a goal to make positive change in Africa. From 2007 until 2009, we volunteered at orphanages, helped build schools

and worked as teachers to gain experience working with various organisations including World Youth International and Hands of Help.

We were inspired by the African people’s upbeat nature, positivity and resilience to the hardships they face on a daily basis. We were also astounded by how far money can go towards making positive and long-lasting change in Africa. We chose Uganda because as a nation it has a progressive attitude towards development and was receiving less foreign aid than Kenya.

The biggest obstacle Dave and I faced was our age. When we first set out to build a school in Uganda, we were 21 years old and still studying at University. Many questioned our long term

commitment, but we pulled together a strong Board of Directors with a wealth of knowledge and experience in different fields, which added to our credibility. We have a partner from Freehills, architect from Day Bukh Architects, the Treasurer of Rotary Australia World Community Service and the Head of Asset Management from Credit Suisse.

i would be lying if i said that there aren't moments I consider how life would have been if I had become a lawyer. It certainly would have been a different and more predictable path! But I wouldn’t change my decision to set up School for Life. We took a massive risk and had faith in making the impossible, possible. People often ask me why I ‘threw away my career’ (in law), my

southside is published by Fast Media ltd. this magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. the publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publica-tion or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. southside cannot be held re-sponsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. the views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or pubish-ers. no part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

w w w. f a s t m e d i a . c o m . h k

EditorialCarolynne Dear

[email protected] Steer

[email protected] Marett

[email protected]

Art directorSammy Ko

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Graphic designerHeidi Lai

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Sales ManagerNobel Cho

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distributionMichelle Lee

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Accounts ManagerClara Chan

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CEoTom Hilditch

[email protected]

Contributors Dr Carmel Taylor MVB

Graham UdenJackie PeersKevin Yeung

Cynthia SmilieAnna BonarEric Kong

Louis DoctroveHeta Shah

David Diskin Jane Ram

Laura Tyson

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life lessons

Visit www.schoolforlife.org.au to learn more about our organisation.

answer is simple; I haven’t thrown away a career, I have created one and pursuing that ambition is the most rewarding and worthwhile thing I have ever done!

Words can’t describe that magical feeling of walking into Katuuso for the first time and seeing it come alive: 80 children running around in uniforms, playing, smiling and learning. We have now increased our enrolment to 120 students. The feeling of community, warmth and happiness at Katuuso is difficult to encapsulate in words. The school is no longer a dream but a reality and most importantly, a responsibility. We are now responsible for upholding the education of these children and community members as we continue to grow. To date, we have purchased 10 acres of land at Katuuso on which we have built four classrooms, two health rooms, an outdoor shade shelter, a makeshift kitchen, 10 pit latrines, a storage room and deep set borehole. The children who attend Katuuso are chosen from some of the poorest families in the community, who may not have had the opportunity to go to school otherwise. Two cooks from the community prepare three meals a day for the students, making sure hunger does not distract them from learning.

Their nutrition, overall health and growth have improved tremendously! On top of giving the children a quality primary school education following the Ugandan curriculum, we also provide them with extra curricular classes such as drama, art, sport and music. We aim to grow

annually, enrolling 40 students annually, until we reach a capacity of 320 students from pre-Primary to Primary 7. In the future, we aim to develop the school, with more buildings to come and plans for multiple campuses, including a secondary school. kony 2012 was an important campaign for raising global awareness about the history of Uganda and some of the struggles the people have faced over the past 20 years. It put a spotlight on the devastating atrocities of the past but elucidated the need for development and support to ensure the country can move on in a positive way. Above all, it has highlighted a need for development to occur at a grassroot level and through the provision of basic services such as high quality education.

our school is a model, which we aim to replicate in different areas of Uganda and the developing world. In the next five years, I hope to have opened one or more new schools in needy areas. We have found that the Ugandans have a strong sense of ownership over Katuuso and are highly supportive of the project. We provide a hand up, not a hand out, making our program sustainable for the long term. I hope that School for Life becomes an internationally recognisable brand in the not for profit industry. We aim to set a high standard of practise and continue to provide much needed education to those in need.


have your sayletters

Please email your letters to [email protected]. We may edit for length.

Bring back the barsThe government official in charge of South Bay and Middle Bay beach bars should be fired. Both bars have now been closed for a year as a result of pointless government bungling.

Step back to 2010. When I visited the South Bay Beach Bar one Sunday afternoon two years ago, I was greeted by an idyllic scene — a beautiful, chic, roof-top bar packed with a friendly crowd of people of all ages and races. A DJ was playing gentle tunes and there was a reasonably priced cocktail list. Sitting with my wife and two children in comfortable wicker chairs, taking in the awesome view as the sun set between Southside mountains, it seemed true that Hong Kong was — as the Tourist Board claims — Asia’s World City.

When I read a few weeks later that Hollywood actor Jude Law was seen spending an afternoon in South Bay

Beach Bar I was not surprised.Fast forward to present day. South

Bay Beach Bar (and its sister Middle Bay Beach Bar) have been closed. The only facility for refreshment is a soft drinks machine. The only seats are some dirty steps. An apologetic (and very patient) caretaker — I kid you not — has a pizza hut delivery menu he makes available to starving and annoyed visitors.

Why is the bar closed? Why has this beautiful facility been taken from us? It is surely not for lack of customers. The lifeguard told me he gets countless inquiries each weekend from disappointed visitors asking “Why is the bar shut?”

The responsibility must rest with whoever runs the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), since this is the government department that manages the facilities. An LSCD-signed notice on both bars says they are “Closed for Maintenance until May 25th”. But there is no visible sign of maintenance work and it is now August.

I know that there have been “issues” with these bars. I know that the last operator Kenneth Howe was criticised for serving an “elite” market. (Which is kind of hilarious when you think about who lives in Southside and what kind of rent we pay.) But to keep the bars closed is a crime.

Someone in the LCSD is being paid tax-payer money to manage and provide beach facilities. Their failure or unwillingness to find a new operator (or find a way to work with the old operator) is either arrogance or incompetence. Either way it is unforgiveable.david Bryan

doin' the stag doThanks for the tips in last month’s “Boys Weekends” feature. A mate of mine is getting hitched and has left me in charge of planning his final hurrah.

I’ve got us booked in for drift racing in Zhuhai which the lads are all stoked for, amongst other plans that aren’t quite suitable for print... Barry


feature

Hidden away in apartments across Southside, are a myriad of small businesses run by its enterprising residents. Ranging from clothes and jewellery, to education, there are numerous companies being operated from peoples’ homes and contributing towards the local economy.

Southside is littered with ‘trailing spouses’ who often have years of business experience in their home country. With domestic help readily available in Hong

Kong to take care of housework and children, they have the time and opportunity to contemplate new business ventures.

For many, the initial business idea seems to have sprung from the frustration of being unable to source common items available back home, readily or cheaply in Hong Kong. For others, it was about spotting a gap in the market and plugging it. And for some, it was simply turning a passion or hobby into a profit-making business.

After having children and moving to Pok Fu Lam, Georgina Lindburgh realised that she didn’t want to work in an office in Central. Instead, she started two home businesses. Adding to her existing teaching experience, she trained online to teach English as a second language. In 2011, she established Queens English, to meet an ever-growing demand for native English language tutors. Recently, teaming up with a friend from the United Kingdom,

she set up Alex and Georgie, which focuses on personalising children’s accessories for the Hong Kong and UK markets. American Jennifer Pollard turned her passion for crafts into a business selling kids’ craft kits from her Shek O home. “I am a bit of a craft-junkie. My kids enjoyed doing art projects with me, so I decided to see whether other kids were keen as well,” Jennifer recalls. And so Kids Take It Make It was born.

At the helm of their ‘home business’, these Southside entreprenuers tell Laura Tyson what it takes to be the boss.

Cottage Industries

Taking the plungeTop tips

Eve Roth Lindsay Founder, Savvy Stylewww.savvystyle.com

“Find something you love to do and figure out a way to make money doing it. You need to LOVE what you do, it’s what you will be doing night and day.”


feature

Getting advice is critical, be it from friends who have done something similar or who can act as a sounding board for ideas. When Brit Bex Middleton, another Pok Fu Lam resident, started her wrap bracelets venture Boho Betty, she sought advice from her professional friends, especially when it came to sniffing out good accountants. “Having them on board made setting up the company relatively painless,” she says.

In retrospect, Jennifer wishes she had reached out for advice in the early stages. “I think it would have been a good idea to get involved with a few small business owner’s groups. It would have made marketing easier as that was an aspect I struggled with the most,” she laments.

be, but I was surprised to find that the whole process remarkably easy. Everything is available online for download and you need relatively little documentation to start your own business.”

After being a full-time mum for years, Mags Payet from Scotland was looking for a new challenge. She soon took over a home company, Tai Tai Folies, making silver bracelets. She found the process of establishing a business in Hong Kong quick and simple. She says, “It was easy to identify the key milestones in setting up the business. A quick call to the French Chamber of Commerce allowed me to double check the necessary details. In addition, the local administrations turned out to be extremely efficient.”

Invest HK offers guidance on setting up a company in Hong Kong. From company registration to setting up business accounts to acquiring a self-employment visa, their website is packed with useful information. In addition, their advisers are on hand to chat through any concerns or issues you may have.

Seeking advice

Navigating regulations

Top tips

“Go to the fairs. They are a wonderful way to showcase new products, meet other

established and new business people. My favourites include Conrad Christmas Bazaars,

Hk Women’s Forum Peninsula Luncheon, American Women’s

Association, Repulse Bay Christmas Bazaar, Steamers

Monthly Sampler to name just a few.”

If you’re considering establishing an enterprise of your own, don’t be put off by the fear of the bureaucracy involved, it’s navigable and straightforward. Georgina was a little nervous about setting her two businesses, “I knew how ‘form-driven’ Hong Kong can

Donna WarrenFounder, Fifth Avenue Collection Jewellery

www.fifthavenuecollection.com


feature

In Hong Kong, one of the biggest constraints in running a business, is space. With rent levels for housing being among the highest in the world, only few can afford to dedicate much space to a home business, be it office or storage. Bex bemoans having to use her home as a warehouse for Boho Betty’s products, and Jennifer runs all aspects of her craft kit business from a single table in her home.

Another factor that many entrepreneurs find tricky, is

Top tips

Claire Fenner Founder, global online community for female

entrepreneurswww.heelsanddeals.org

“Network, network, network! I can’t emphasize the importance of networking for entrepreneurs enough – it should be included in every business’s Marketing Plan because it is a low cost, high reward marketing activity. Network in about three different organisations to give yourself a good mix of opportunities. Networking generates much-needed visibility for you and your business; you’ll get to make new connections that could bring you referrals as well as vital help, inspiration and knowledge. Also, do not do business ‘in the room’. Do it ‘through the room’.”

establishing reliable partners for outsourcing aspects of their business. This is partly due to the small quantities involved in a cottage industry as well as the language barrier.

Finding reliable local suppliers has been one of the hardest parts of getting the business going. We have been let down a few times and there have also been ‘lost in translation’ issues,” Georgina recollects of when she began sourcing products, such as aprons

Start-up costs and struggles

and bags, for Alex and Georgie.It’s no secret that running your

own business can be incredibly time consuming. Remarkably, Jennifer juggles three children, a regular job and Kids Take It Make It. Mags, who runs Tai Tai Folies from her Chung Hom Kok home also finds time management a struggle, “I produce handmade sterling silver bracelets and each one takes time to make. Performing administrative tasks a well as creating future collections, can be a bit of a challenge.”


feature

Clever marketing is key to a home run business. The most lucrative and free means of marketing is by ‘word of mouth’.

Kids Take It Make It is marketed solely by word of mouth and through the numerous fairs that take place throughout the year. “Getting involved with fairs was pretty easy, though I certainly wish there was a vendor’s guide detailing all of the Hong Kong fairs throughout the year. Finding out about deadlines for application, organisers’ contact details and such was really challenging,” says Jennifer.

Georgina has had quite contrasting experiences while marketing her two diverse businesses. She explains, “Getting the name and service to the right audience has been difficult, especially for the tutoring business as you are essentially seeking out people who aren’t English. As for children’s products, it’s been a bit

Top tips

Kiri SinclairFounder,

Sinclair Communications www.sinclairasia.com

"The secret of starting a business is starting a

business. Then be flexible to what the market offers, and take it from there. The best business are the ones that

grow organically."

Mastering marketing tactics

easier through forums such as HK Moms and Facebook.”

Mags found the marketing side of Tai Tai Folies relatively straightforward, “Joining the network of sales in Hong Kong was easier than I had anticipated, and the people involved were very helpful.”

For most cottage industries, websites are the heart of the business. Both Mags and Bex designed their websites themselves, saving them critical start-up costs. Bex admits, “I thought I was a bit of a tech phobe. But mastering the management of the website was easier than I thought.”

There are numerous businesses quietly flourishing behind the apartment blocks of Southside. Unsurprisingly, the advice from all the entrepreneurs is the same — if you’re considering setting your own business in Hong Kong, then just go for it.


feature

Business Registrationinland Revenue departmentwww.ird.gov.hk/eng/welcome.htmRegister within one month of starting business.

HkGov Business & Tradewww.gov.hk/en/businessGuide on how to start a business in Hong Kong, with information about registration and licenses.

Youth Business Hong kongwww.youth.gov.hk/en/info_centre/career/100G.htmInformation and resources for young entrepreneurs on topics such as starting-up, funding, recruitment, and labour regulations. Recruitmentinteractive Employment Servicewww.jobs.gov.hkThe Labour Department’s employment services website provides job posting functions and employment-related information such as tips and statistics.

information GuidesJobsdBwww.hk.jobsdb.comIt is one of the largest online providers of local job listings in Asia Pacific. Plus, the portal includes employment tips, resources, news and reports. Support and AdviceSupport and Consultation Centre of SMEs (SUCCESS)www.success.tid.gov.hk/eindex.htmlFree membership to information and consultation services, access to business electronic databases and publication SME Pulse on SME topical issues.

investHkwww.investhk.gov.hk/index.htmlFree advice and services to support, promote and expand businesses.

Top tips

Louise Rogerson Founder, Elephant Asia Rescue

and Survival foundationearsasia.org

Find your niche or gap in the market, as you need to offer something exciting and new. You must be positive that it will succeed. Think every decision through. Listen to advice and take constructive criticism. But ultimately choose your own path and follow your gut feeling, as it's usually right. Always remember, if you never try, you'll never know!


Consumer counsel peggy Chan, who recently opened boutique cafe Grassroots pantry, makes a case for eating right.

What is a “locavore”?Locavore is a term defining those who consumes mostly locally grown produce. By doing so, we help decrease food mileage and the environmental impact of food transportation, reduce packaging and help support the local community as a whole.

As a chef, how important is the quality of ingredients?Quality is extremely important — you cannot make a bad ingredient taste good. As much as possible, I believe in using organic and local produce, as well as whole foods that are unprocessed, preservative- and chemical-free, and seldom frozen. As far as packaged goods goes, read labels. If you cannot pronounce or recognize an ingredient on a label, don’t buy it.

Any advice on finding top-quality produce?Start by going to farmers’ markets or to Hong Kong’s organic farms to purchase produce. Eat seasonally

and avoid supermarkets when possible because everything is pre-packaged which becomes added external costs on the environment as well as on your food costs.

What raised your consciousness about eating right?Animal welfare was the initial reason I stopped consuming red meat as a teenager. Over time, I learned where our meat and our crops came from and realised the truth was hidden from the public. Inhumane animal treatment is the obvious example, but above that, the industry have forced genetically altered foods onto the market without consumer consent. Somehow our government has allowed giant monopolies to control our food system, destroy our ecosystem, erase thousands of years of seed-saving traditions and bully our traditional farmers out of business. This askewed system simply does not make sense.

How can we find out where our food comes from?People need to take the initiative to learn about what they are putting into their mouths. There is enough information out there to make an impact. Don’t be shy. Ask questions. Some consumers may be skeptical about organic produce bought from HK or China.

eating

But recent scientific studies have proven that growing organic makes a huge impact on health and on the environment. Organic farms in Hong Kong and China are beginning to make an effort to grow more varieties. I will always support local organic farms first.

What can be done to improve the situation?We need to help shift consumer mindsets. If we don't voice our stance there will never be change. The key is education — we offer workshops, seminars and cooking classes taught by professionals to promote healthy eating and other environmental issues at Grassroots Pantry. Our goal is to bring the community together and offer a space where everyone can speak their mind.

You talk in schools about healthy eating — how do children respond?Children are more open and receptive than adults. I see more teenagers in Hong Kong becoming vegetarians because they realise something is wrong with the food


eating right

system. They take more initiative to try to make a difference.

Tell us about your latest project.We’ve opened a boutique restaurant and workshop space called Grassroots Pantry in Sai Ying Pun. We serve homemade, organic, and nutritious world-inspired cuisines, and hope to improve the health and wellness of the community through our seminars and culinary classes.

You studied at Le Cordon Bleu, worked at five-star hotels Four Seasons and The peninsula,

NibblesRocksalt hits the nail on the head with their summer menu. Seasonal specials include Australian lamb chops with a side of roasted eggplant and fingerling potatoes, salmon fillet with pineapple jalapeno salsa and more. Order half a dozen

oysters, and get a glass of draught beer or house wine on the house! Available until August 31. Rocksalt, 25 Stanley Market Road, Stanley, 2899 0818.

Calling all sweet tooths! Cafe deco on The Peak has unveiled their brand new patisserie. A range of delicious new desserts have made their way to a limited edition menu thanks to resident Executive Pastry Chef, Julien Gourmelon. Julien was titled Chef de Partie for well-known patisseries in London; Didier’s and Laduree of Harrods. Cafe Deco, Level 1 and 2, The Peak Galleria, The Peak, 2849 5111.

why are you switching to a cozy vegan restaurant?I am so grateful for the experiences I’ve had, but I want to provide a healthy and sustainable option for the community and sadly, Hong Kong is lacking this type of food. I am passionate about sustainable, farm-to-table cooking. Through the support of our farmers and the slow-food community, we hope to set a new standard of healthy eating in Hong Kong.

Take a trip to Grassroots pantry! 12 Fuk Sau Lane, Sai Wan, 2873 3353, www.grassrootspantry.com.

Putting vegetables into a child’s smoothie is one of the easiest ways to get them to eat their greens.

Summer Tropicana Smoothie (Makes 16oz beverage)

150g fresh pineapple (diced)150g fresh mango (diced)1 small coconut (reserve milk and flesh)3 leaves basil3 leaves mint1 handful amaranth or spinach (whichever is in season)5 ice cubes1½ cups unsweetened soy milk or other non-dairy milk

Place all ingredients into blender to combine. Adjust consistency by adding soy milk for extra creaminess. Serve chilled.

peggy’s advice


eating

Wine writer Alasdair Nicol (left) has been living in Hong Kong for over 30 years. He is the owner of Wine Times Hong

Kong and blogs about wine in the Hong Kong market at www.winetimeshk.blogspot.com. He has also had published works in Time Out Hong Kong, Cru Magazine, The Drinks Business Magazine, SCMP, Hong Kong Tatler, Sommeliers International Magazine and more. You can e-mail him at [email protected]

REd Atrea old Soul Red 2007

the atrea Old soul Red is made from syrah vines that are over 100 years old. it’s a blend of syrah, Zinfandel, Petit syrah and Malbec. it also pairs perfectly with most styles of both Western and asian food.

WHiTE pares Balta Blanc de pacs 2011coming from the Penedes region of spain where most of the cava production of the country is based, this wine is light and fruity with great flavours of lychee, peach and melon.

SpARkLiNG Casa Valduga Sparkling Moscatelthis bubbly Brazilian number is the perfect summer tipple. it has a slightly off-dry sweetness from the Moscatel and is highly addictive.

Why drink wine?Wine is a great social drink and a perfect conversation accompaniment. What could be better than sharing a bottle of crisp white wine with friends on a warm summer evening?

The social aspects of wine, notwithstanding, when consumed in moderation, wine also has numerous health benefits. Firstly, there are antioxidants in red wine called resveratrol that keeps your

skin looking younger. Secondly, wine is less fattening

than other alcoholic drinks. A glass of wine has approximately 126 calories, while a pint of beer has 248 calories. Additionally, wine does not lead to cravings for pizza or kebabs and one usually ends up eating healthier food with it.

According to the Harvard School of Public Health, wine consumption reduces the risk

of heart attacks, with moderate drinkers being 30 percent less likely to have a heart attack than non-drinkers. As a part of a healthy diet, wine can prevent heart disease by increasing levels of good cholesterol (polyphenols) and protecting against artery damage.

The Stony Brook University concluded that controlled consumption of wine cuts the risk of colon cancer by 45 percent.

Finland’s Journal of Gerontology also found that wine drinkers have a 34 percent lower mortality rate than beer and spirits drinkers.

Moderation, however, is the key. With that in mind, wine can be sipped with friends over an evening of fun and laughs.

GrandOpening

of Our New Academy & Gallery in

the most Vibrant, Artistic & Creative venue in town!

Stanley Plaza

Free Art Activities, Limited SpacesRSVP: 2838-0040

Enrollment to Autumn Term 2012

15th & 16th

FamilyArtday

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www.arthouse-hk.com

Stanley Art Studio: (Opens in Sep)Shop 208, 2/F, Stanley PlazaStanley, Hong Kong Tel: 2838 0040 Fax: 2838 [email protected]

Repulse Bay Art Studio:Shop G107B, The Repulse Bay 109 Repulse Bay Road, HKTel: 2812 6465 Fax: 2812 [email protected]

Sai Kung Art Studio:G/F, 9 Hoi Pong StreetSai Kung Town, NTTel: 2719 5533 Fax: 2719 [email protected]

Happy Valley Art Studio:No. 11 Yuk Sau StreetHappy Valley, HKTel: 2838 0040 Fax: 2838 [email protected]

Prime Art Education for Children & Adults. Professional, Internationally Acclaimed Artists Teaching Art in a Gallery Environment

September2012


motoring

Around the Benzkevin Yeung gives the new ML350 a test spin around Southside’s twisting roads.

Repulse Bay Road is a scenic, curving and an almost ribbon-like road that connects the southernmost peninsula of the Hong Kong island. Cruising with conviction along this winding road, my wife was determined to catch up with the number 40 minibus that was darting off ahead. As the gap receded, she summed up her initial thoughts in a word — alert. Precise steering of our test vehicle felt planted, but at the same time, light footed compared to our 2010 ML500.

My wife is an enthusiastic

driver like many folks who live along the Southside and the Peak. The Mercedes ML series, now in its third incarnation, has became a staple for many Hong Kong families here. A number of our friends have owned them in succession. So it was surely a promising start.

The all new ML350 has been treated with bold aggressive styling, particularly when equipped with the optional AMG Sports package, which was fitted on our test vehicle. It commands a powerful presence, which works well in my eyes.

It’s a similar story inside. Befitting a premium SUV, the quality of the leather and materials is high. The overall ergonomics are ideal — controls and switchgear are intuitive and perfectly positioned. Surprisingly though, it still doesn’t feature a touch screen multimedia display.

The energetic BlueEfficiency 3,498cc V6 produces a healthy 306 horsepower without forced induction. This Eco-performance engine is 25% more fuel efficient than the outgoing model, thanks to the introduction of direct injection

and stop / start technology. Given Mercedes’ furious dedication to innovation, this model features a clever alternator which recharges the battery when the engine doesn’t require power.

Just like most large SUVs, its visibility is brilliant. I selected ‘Drive’ on the quick shifting and silky smooth 7G-Tronic — 7-speed gearbox — and we were off. Even with our ML500, I always kept it in auto mode and didn’t bother to operate the transmission manually.


Kevin Yeung, Motoring Correspondent. Our Southside resident enthusiast and fortunate owner of modern and classic cars offers his unique perspective on all things with wheels.

suv sprinting

Fact is, even the best torque converter gearboxes will never be as satisfying as dual clutch systems, let alone proper manual. If self shifting an SUV, however, is important to you, then I’m afraid you’re missing the point.

The electromechanical steering is light, linear and accurate. Initially, I was worried that the optional 21 inch alloys would create a compromised ride. After spending

time in it, however, I found the ML to be surprisingly compliant, even along the Southside’s notoriously pothole-ridden roads.

The new ML’s sporting intent becomes apparent once the sport mode is selected. The revised steering and suspension set-up dial in greater precision and feedback without trying to be a sports car. Hustled over a series of fast corners, the towering SUV’s chassis worked brilliantly under hard cornering loads and resisted body roll.

As parents, when considering a

family vehicle, safety remains our highest priority. We found the new Attention Assist system particularly interesting. Using sensors, it detects when a driver is drowsy and provides a warning. For accident avoidance, the brakes are strong and composed. Should an accident occur, the occupants are protected by one of the strongest body shells on the market, armed with seven airbags.

We found the new ML350 to be one of the most driver-pleasing SUVs on the market. Priced at $599,000, after the environment friendly car tax deduction, it’s definitely a bargain. Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too?

30 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK30 | WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK

property

They do things differently in Tai O. While the rest of Hong Kong bulldozes its last remaining colonial relics into landfill, the 300-year-old fishing village in northwest Lantau has taken a more considered approach. It has turned its former

A night in the nickTake down your particulars at Lantau’s new Tai o Heritage Hotel.

police station — a sturdily graceful whitewashed building that guarded the village from 1902 to 2002 — into the idyllic Tai O Heritage Hotel.

Like something from a Chinese fairy-tale, police officers based in the station once heroically warded

off sea pirates, mediated family disputes and settled village quarrels. Then a century after it opened, declining crime rates forced the station’s closure, a victim of its own success.

Restoration began in 2009,

converting the building into a stunning nine-bedroom boutique hotel, which opened in March. The renovation by architects WMKY and interior designers Philip Liao and Partners was in keeping with the building’s status as a Grade II historic monument — effortlessly elegant rather than ultra modern.

Original features have been restored and retained, including the fireplaces, Chinese-tile roof, granite steps, cannons, searchlight and corner turrets. Even the former cells are still in place.

Fortunately, you won’t be staying there, but in one of the four suites and five guestrooms. Each room has its own name and story: “The Commissioner”, for example, was once the armoury and interview room, while “Sea Lion” was formerly the officers’ bar.

A neutral palette is used throughout: plenty of white and shades of blue, accented by warm

Try local seafood delicacies in the glasshouse restaurant, Tai o Lookout (left); one of the chic, understated bedrooms (above).


legal brief

tones of light and dark woods that perfectly complement the seaside charm of Tai O. Chic French windows open onto a verandah lined with graceful arches and pillars overlooking the sea and the surrounding village.

A non-profit hotel, the building is owned by the government and run by local group Hong Kong Heritage Conservation Foundation, with all income used for maintaining the building. It’s on a mission to educate locals and tourists alike about this unique corner of Hong Kong, with 20-minute tours of the hotel, and cultural and experience tours through Tai O’s waterways and alleyways, shrimp paste factories and causeways. Explore its temples and monuments and get to know the locals.

For something more romantic, take a trip back in time on the Sunset Boat Tour. Hop aboard and watch the sun go down over the sleepy village, sailing under the drawbridge and past Tai O’s iconic stilt houses and General’s Rock.

End the night with dinner and drinks at Tai O Lookout, the hotel’s restaurant. Pre-restoration, the space was merely a slab of concrete collecting dust and foliage. Today, it’s a gorgeous glasshouse restaurant with dark, carved-wood detailing and Portuguese-inspired tiles consistent with the hotel's classic look and feel. On the menu are Western and Asian favourites as well as Tai O specialities that use locally made shrimp paste for an authentic experience.

For details and reservations, visit www.taioheritagehotel.com or call 2985 8008.

Mandarin Immersion Programme


living

Southside Magazine pops down to Faux Gallery in Ap Lei Chau for a chat about art and other things with co-founder Louis papachristou.

in my element hence the irony behind Faux’s tagline, “where everything is real.” Hugh was Principle Director of Leigh and Orange at the time and looking for a change so we joined forces. He takes care of all the interiors work focusing on restaurants and residential. Our portfolio includes Zelo in Pacific Place, the Pizza Express restaurants and Isola, Shanghai. We also made the rugs for Capital M in Beijing. We now collaborate with artists from around the world and our products are being sold in Europe and America.

Why did you choose this space? The space came up in 2008. We wanted somewhere that would be really enjoyable to work and entertain. The open space, gorgeous garden terrace and magnificent sea views over the East Lamma Channel really fit the bill.

Are there any hidden gems in Ap Lei Chau you've discovered since working there? I think the hidden gems are the people that live and work here who I have met and connected with, especially the artists and designers with whom we collaborate.

Why do you think it's important to have art in the home? I think art is a part of what civilizes us as humans. The aesthetic values of art give us sensual and sensory pleasure while providing a beautiful medium for reflection, intellectual stimulation and ways to measure human endeavor. We at Faux create functional art with many Hong Kong based artists.

What’s the story behind Faux? How did it begin and how did it get to where it is now? When I first met my business partner Hugh Zimmern, I was an unemployed freelance writer looking for something to do. A friend of mine was looking for eco-throws so I told her I had just launched a company doing just that, which of course I hadn’t. I sought the supplier from Hugh (who's sister ran an eco-fur company) and had the throws made for my first customer who was extremely happy. With the profits, I bought products such as cowhides from Brazil and Mongolian goat cushions and rugs. We customised the eco-fur and hide products


Apparently life imitates art. What forms of art or artists have inspired the way you live? As a filmmaker, I am hugely inspired by this medium, it involves every aspect of artistic expression and is a vehicle for visual storytelling. And music because it transcends all boundaries; I believe it to be the highest form of art.

What's next for Faux?More collaborations with artists and designers to create unique homeware collections and we’re hoping to sell our products worldwide. We’re doing a collection with a Paris-based artist and photographer, Doris Kloster. She’s famous for her photo documentation of New York’s soft S&M clubs in the 80s. We’ll be applying this to a whole slew of new products, including tapestries. We’re also doing another series of bone china dinner plates titled ‘Black and Blue. Watch this space!

keeping it real

Tell us about the garden you’ve got on your balcony — what'cha growin? The garden is really Hugh’s achievement. It’s focus is southern Mediterranean. Think Sardinia or Greece with a twist of Asia to include Japanese Citrus. There’s a herb garden with rosemary, mint and basil, which I use to cook with as well as lemons, passion fruit and olives. We’ve just been given some tomato plants from the South of France.

How would you like to see Hong kong’s art scene grow in the next 5 years? I’d like to see more local artists given the opportunity to practice and gain more exposure to their work. This requires providing artists with space to work in and I sincerely hope the new infrastructure developments in the pipeline have taken this into consideration.

Who are some of your favorite Hong kong artists at the moment? I love Tsang Kin Wah for his beautiful irreverence and Nadim Abbas, Richard Winkworth, I love the way he paints and how he applies his brilliant mind to his work..

What common feedback do you get from guests who visit the Faux studio? They love our showroom. We tend to mix different people together; designers, retailers, friends, artists and customers who appreciate what we do. It always results in a very interesting dynamic. We’re also consummate food and wine lovers so there’s always good food and quaffing to be had. Guests love to look at the view and browse our products, we’re forever introducing new homewares so there’s always something new to see at faux.

LouiS’

ToP 5PiCKS

“I love the antique film and theatre lights, which we sell through lighting director, Hugh Chinnick. They come from London as well as from Hollywood.”

“I adore the silk rug we recently had made based on a swimming pool

design called Thai Water, designed by photographer and artist Paul Robinson in L.A who has shown his work at the Cat

Street Gallery. The silk really captures the refraction of water.”

“My most favourite piece of all is a silk rug designed by Richard Winkworth called the Cosmos Garden. It is based on the idea of a collision between Indian Miniature paintings from Jaipur and Chinese symbolism. The symbols represented are the birth of the cosmos, birds, fish, mammals, clouds, heavens trees, flowers and astral phenomena.”

“The collection of Artists’ bone china dinner plates are fantastic because they’re all so beautifully different yet complimentary. We commissioned 7 Hong Kong-based artists to design them.”

“This gorgeous bone china Hong Kong toile tea set was designed by a very talented friend of mine, Mariko Jesse. It incorporates elements of Hong Kong; a dim sum basket, HSBC bank, the Star Ferry, a bird cage and more. The closer you look, the more you see. We are working on a London design.”

MORE INFO Visit www.faux-home.com


promotion

Just half an hour from Central brings you luxurious beachside living. Welcome to the oasis of sea, sand and sun known as Hong kong Gold Coast.

Something for everyonePerched on the beautiful coast along Castle Peak Road, Sino Group’s Gold Coast Residences provides a wealth of facilities that will keep all residents, from singles and couples to families, happy and healthy.

The Gold Coast clubhouse has a large swimming pool worthy of a five-star resort. It also features a tennis court, a billiards room, a kids’ clubhouse, a fully equipped gym and more.

The nearby Gold Coast Piazza has plenty of al fresco dining options and shops, it’s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon or a romantic seaside stroll under the stars.

Harrow International School, due to open in September this year, will be a quick five-minute drive from Gold Coast.

Home sweet homeResidents have the options of elegant seaside apartments which range from 2- and 3-bedroom homes to stylish 3-bedroom duplexes. For families, opt for the 1,138- to 1,372- square-foot apartments which

include a helper’s room. For more opulent living, try

one of the Mediterranean-inspired Marina Villas that overlook the sea. Choose from a Marina Penthouse, a two-level home

with a 500-square-foot rooftop terrace, a Marina Apartment that commands panoramic sea views, last but far from the least, the Marina Garden homes offer spacious living that exudes luxury inside and out. It also includes a 400- to 2,000-square-foot private waterfront garden.

Like fellow luxury developement Vista Cove by Sino Group, each Marina Villa home oozes Mediterranean chic. It’s all in the details, with elegant touches of marble imported from central Italy, strip teak flooring and polished granite tiles.

If you prefer a more classic style, be sure to check out Sino Group’s Vista Cliff, a collection of stylish homes inspired by the colonial era. True to its name, it sits atop a cliff, commanding picturesque sea views.

A stunning bird’s eye view of Gold Coast Residences (above); make a splash at the Mediterranean-inspired pool (below).

Marina living


promotion

Gold Coast Residences, www.goldcoastresidences.com.hk, 2547 0789cOntact

Sit back and take in gorgeous views of the marina (above); a glimpse into elegant Marina Garden (below).

Vista Cliff — Waterfront Town House (below).

Back to natureAt Hong Kong Gold Coast, your backyard will be the envy of everybody.

Golden Beach, one of Hong Kong’s longest and cleanest beaches, is right on your doorsteps. The white sand, azure blue water and shoreline remind you of the coasts of the Aegean Sea.

There is also a private green organic farmyard and herb garden,

giving residents an opportunity to experience the fun of organic farming and do their part in environmental care.

If you like keeping fit, but being cooped up in the gym is not for you, then take the scenic route on one of Hong Kong Gold Coast’s three seaside jogging trails.

There is something for everyone at Hong Kong Gold Coast.


educationThe way inLaura Tyson explains how the ESF application process works.

Summer’s almost over, and its time to head back to school. For many parents, this means ensuring that the school bag is mould-free and the school shoes still fit. For others, though, it signals the more stressful prospect of English Schools Foundation (ESF) applications.

With no debenture and reasonably low school fees – currently $63k for primary and $95,100 for Year 7– ESF schools are, understandably, a very popular choice, with both, expatriates and locals keen on an English-medium education. Demand for admission, hence, far outstrips supply and

competition is fierce. Throughout September, ESF

accepts applications to entry-level primary and secondary years. This year, children born in 2008 and 2002 can apply for entry in 2013. The application, tagged with a non-refundable payment of $150, is to be filled out online and is fairly self-explanatory, although a little lengthy.

Successful applicants are notified in autumn, and the interviews take place later in the year. The assessments, according to ESF, are purely to determine whether or not a child is capable

of engaging with an English-medium curriculum. The primary assessment is in the form of a group interview, lasting between 30 to 60 minutes. Secondary school students are required to complete written assessments and possibly undergo an interview, as well as submit their school reports.

The nine primary and five secondary ESF schools are run on a catchment system, so on application you will automatically be assigned to the appropriate school based on your address. ESF’s two Private Independent Schools – Renaissance College

in Ma On Shan and Discovery College on Lantau island – aren’t restricted by catchment area and have their independent application process. If you have cash to splash, then a $400,000 non-refundable ‘donation’, called a Nomination Right, will get you a priority placement.

In regular ESF schools, however, no such ‘donation’ exists. Children are categorised according to their language ability – those with English as first or alternative language, and who do not speak Cantonese are classed as Category One. Others fall in Category Two. Within each category, priority for interview is given to children who have a sibling at the school as well children of alumni, full-time staff, or who have attended one of ESF’s kindergartens for more than two terms.

Natalie, who has been unable to find a primary school place for her four year old daughter, questions the number of Category Two students getting places, “These schools were started primarily for English children who cannot speak Cantonese, and hence are not eligible for local schools.

There is a HIGH percentage of local kids — who could attend local schools — now attending these schools and making it impossible for English-speaking kids to get in.”

Jonathan Straker, ESF’s Head of Student Support, insists that the majority of places go to Category One students. He says, “We know that ESF places are always in great demand and we understand the disappointment of unsuccessful parents. ESF schools follow a strict


ESF entry

admissions policy, which has been in place for some years. Every year there is a certain number of Category Two students admitted but it is a smaller proportion when compared to Category One”.

Frustratingly enough, since the places are oversubscribed, the final allocations are often done on a random number lottery system.

This is where luck takes over. The golden ticket offers for primary places are made in February, and secondary in December.

However, make sure you have a back up plan or two.

online application forms are available herewww.esf.edu.hk/application-form

ESF Schools in SouthsidePrimary Bradbury School43C Stubbs Road, Hong Kong, 2574 8249, www.bradbury.edu.hk.

peak School20 Plunketts Road, The Peak, Hong Kong, 2849 7211, www.ps.edu.hk.

Secondarykennedy School19 Sha Wan Drive, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, 2855 0711, www.kennedy.edu.hk.

South island50 Nam Fung Road, Hong Kong, 2555 9313, www.sis.edu.hk.

West island250 Victoria Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, 2819 1962, www.wis.edu.hk.


health & beautyBallet for tough chicksCoco Marett heads to Flex Studio to try out Xtend Barre, a combination of ballet and pilates that’s taking the workout world by storm.

“Anyone who practices barre two-three times per week will absolutely start to see better muscle definition. I saw a big change in my body once I started practicing regularly.”

I was excited to give Xtend Barre a try. Having learnt ballet for most of my childhood, this ballet-pilates hybrid seemed right up my alley. The class starts off with a gentle workout, which includes some light arm work with weights and floor exercises. This gets the adrenaline pumping before moving on to tougher moves that really put your muscles to the test. Xtend Barre is essentially about barre work. Using the bar helps you balance and control muscle movement, which makes a world of difference — even with the most unassuming moves, you can feel your muscles working. The Xtend Barre ball joins the party towards the end of the workout, adding additional resistance to help tone and shape the inner thigh area (I see many faces lighting up right about now).

Though I had been pre-warned that Heather was a tough instructor, I found her energy upbeat, positive and most importantly, infectious. One thing I

“I knew I wanted to bring a barre- based class to Flex for over a year before we launched Xtend.” says Heather Thomas Shalabi, director of Flex Studio and instructor of their Xtend Barre classes. “I’d known about the barre class craze for quite some time and I had seen its effectiveness at sculpting muscles.”

There are a number of barre programs available, but it was Xtend Barre’s element of pilates (all Xtend Barre instructors must also be qualified pilates instructors) that sealed the deal at Flex. “Exercises are small, concentrated movements designed to chisel the muscles in all the right places,” says Heather, who goes on to explain how Xtend Barre works miracles for women’s ‘difficult’ areas such as the back of the arms, abs, glutes and thighs.

Most people believe that cutting out junk food and eating only healthy, unprocessed foods is the key to weight and fat loss. But to fuel your fat burning engine, you need to be eating smaller meals more frequently; five to six meals throughout the day is recommended.

pre workout; Rolled oats can be made with whey protein and flaxmeal in the morning to spike your metabolism with high quality carbs, proteins and good fats. Your body needs carbohydrates for your brain and body

Southside Magazine’s resident PT shares his top tips for the month.

to function throughout the day. Whey protein is also great for your metabolism — so don't be scared of protein shakes. Many people think that whey protein leads to huge muscles and a body-builder physique, which is one of the biggest myths to date. Plus, whey protein helps your body feel full for longer.

post workout; Your body only stores food as body fat when it has nothing else to do with the extra calories. After your training session, your body needs to start restoring and repairing itself. In other words, it needs calories. By eating immediately after your workout, your body automatically uses the calories you eat for good (repair and recovery), not bad (fat storage).

The Instructor

WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 39WWW.SOUTHSIDE.HK | 39

and point

noticed was the sharp eye she keeps on all of her students, making sure they are doing it right and getting the most out of this unique workout.

This was my first visit to Flex Studio and it was fabulous. Despite being in the heart of the busy, industrial drone of Wong Chuk Hang Road, Flex Studio is a calm and airy sanctuary. It boasts some of the biggest studios in Hong Kong, including two with large windows that let in lush green views and plenty of natural light, creating an ideal setting for a morning yoga class.

Rife with gym bunnies high on endorphins, it comes as no surprise that the studio has plenty of girly perks, including a manicure station in the waiting room and an on-site massage centre.

“After your class, you can relax, have a coffee and get your nails done!” chirps Min, Flex Studio’s bubbly business manager, as she gives me a tour of the facility. All in all, it’s not only a great place to work out, but also to lift your spirits and boost your energy. Flex Studio, 1/F Regency Centre (phase ii), 43 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Aberdeen, 2813 2212, www.flexhk.com.

sEttinG thE BaRREBarre-based classes are based on the technique of Lotte Berk, a German dancer who fled the Nazis in the late 1930’s and emigrated to London with her British husband. After injuring her back, Lotte combined her ballet barre routines with her rehabilitative therapy to form an exercise method. In 1959, she opened The Lotte Berk Studio in her West End basement. There, she sculpted the bodies of her students, among them Joan Collins and Brit Ekland.

Louis Doctrove is a NASM certified personal trainer for one-on-one or group classes and holds a BSc Sports and Exercise Science. Email him at [email protected]

A liquid meal containing both protein and carbohydrates is ideal immediately after your workout. A protein shake is the perfect example. About an hour after working out, try to eat a whole food meal such as fish or chicken with a salad. Whatever you do, don't starve yourself after your workout. Take advantage of the metabolic changes that happen post workout to refuel.


the stop

Leaving it to fateDue to an extended stay in Australia over Christmas, this summer saw me facing the unenviable prospect of four kids off school for several weeks and a husband with only five days holiday remaining.

So I’ve done the only decent thing I could, and whisked the kids off to the UK for a few weeks of “Grannie” time, leaving my husband with some much desired peace and quiet to catch up on work.

Holidays “back home” always seem to promise more than they actually deliver. Meeting up with family has been fantastic, and that first trip round a Western supermarket was suitably jaw-dropping – just imagine, an entire aisle devoted to yoghurt and another one just for bread.

But now the inevitable English summer rain has set in and while most of the country lies inundated, I’m beginning to run dry of ideas for

keeping the kids away from the TV and, more importantly, out of each other’s hair.

Boredom is apparently not a problem my husband is facing, it transpires.

“Poor daddy!” we all lamented, as we jetted off to new pastures for the summer.

“How sad he has to work all summer!” I tutted, as mum cracked open the first bottle of Pimm’s and we settled down to a comfortable afternoon watching Wimbledon, kids frolicking happily on the green and mozzie-free lawn outside.

However, as our summer has turned wetter and colder, the initial “Grannie magic” has worn off and the kids are becoming increasingly bored and argumentative. Even the phone conversations with my other half have started to resemble a very defensive game of battleships. Saturday morning’s went something like this:

Me: “I see from Facebook you were out with Matt last night?”


all the gossip from the school bus stop

Him: “Urm, yeah, I wasn’t planning on going out, but as I was wandering down Lan Kwai Fong, (does anyone “wander” along Lan Kwai Fong when they aren't planning on going out?) and I bumped into him and we ended up having a couple of beers.”

Me: “May (Matt’s wife) said he didn’t get in until 4…”

Him: “Um, yeah, it might possibly have been around then. He’s been having a bit of a tough time at work, so I didn’t feel I could leave.”

I’m trying very hard to make light of it all, especially as back in Hong Kong I’d either be – a) out until 4am with him; or b) laughing like a drain as he regaled me with his drunken tales.

However, this time around, while the boys were lending each other vital moral support in Tonic, what was I up to? Oh yes, that’s right, hosting a pizza party for our cabin feverish kids plus five of their equally feverish cousins, in our

tiny holiday cottage as the rain drummed down on the roof outside. Not to forget, of course, the two hours in Accident & Emergency following an altercation between the three year old’s head and a brass door handle.

Saturday night saw my husband “wandering in Wan Chai” (as you do) and “bumping into some of the lads” from his Saturday league football team (again, as you do).

Sunday saw him recovering at the club — apparently it’s quieter and more productive work-wise if you’re lying horizontal on a pool lounger rather than sitting in our empty, air conditioned apartment. Yet another freakish “bumping into” encounter with yet more unaccompanied husbands, which lead to a curry meal and the inevitable beers.

And my Sunday? A day at “Otter World” (I’m serious) with the kids in yet more torrential rain. Actually, it was more fun than it sounds

and those otters were rather cute. The trip was followed by an early bed (for the kids) and a night in, watching Wallender (for me). Not that I’m bitter. In fact, all that Scandinavian mid-winter bleakness did leave me feeling slightly more positive — at least our field has a pub and a Tesco’s Express on the other side of it.

However, a ray of light has appeared on the metaphorical horizon, if not the actual one. A surprise business trip to London sees my husband flying into the country next weekend. And as it happens, I bumped into my sister-in-law during the week and she is desperately looking for some moral support on London’s King’s Road next Saturday. As my husband has discovered for himself, coincidence is an amazing thing.


hikes

To come up with walks suitable for dogs in Hong Kong is as difficult as finding sky suitable for birds. There are plenty of options. The one walk I don’t do with my dog, Fergus, is the weekend waterfront promenade. Fergs gets a bit freaked by dogs wearing sunglasses, caps, shoes and tartan vests. He’s apt to give them an exploratory tooth mark or two, just to see what they are made of.

Walk one: Trio Beach So, where to start? Perhaps with the one we did this morning, which shows how privileged we are. From Pak Sha Wan public pier, Fergs and I took the sampan to Trio Beach, which set us back $10. (I should add here that there are prominent signs indicating dogs are not permitted, although this is more strictly enforced

when the beach is busy.) One possibility is to take the eager one by lead past the club house and scramble over the rocks to the small beach nearest the lighthouse where interesting smells can be attended to and crabs pursued to the hairy one’s heart’s content.

From the beach we followed the pretty trail overlooking the yachts on their moorings, and veered off on the track to Tiu Min Hoi. The walk from Tiu Min Hoi to Sai Kung is a great wee stroll, although this morning we took a different option and cut back to the Lions Nature Education Centre and walked through the park to Hiram’s Highway.

Walk two: Sheung Yiu Family WalkA similar walk with expansive sea views and

plenty of exploratory potential is the Sheung Yiu Family Walk, just inside the country park gate at Pak Tam Chung. This is the site of Fergus’ favourite water hole. Many a bride posing for her wedding photos there has been startled by the sight of a spaniel with ears flapping, heading straight for her long white dress at alarming speed! But he doesn’t mean to wreak mayhem. He just wants to get at the water, do a bit of fishing and have a dog paddle.

This is a perfect stroll in the summer heat, and you can retreat afterwards to the Fat Kee Store for a cold Coke or Tsing Tao overlooking the river, or continue on and do the round circuit of the family walk, turning uphill and left just past the pier and Folk Museum, then looping back along the road.

Four legs goodJackie peers takes her dog for a walk — or four.

(Above) Trio Beach


walkies

Walk three: kai kung ShanIf you’re after a more strenuous option, then Kai Kung Shan is apt for you. Start at Shui Long Wo, just a short taxi ride up Sai Sha Road from the roundabout by the barbecue pits. From there, head up Stage 3 of the MacLehose Trail, going backwards. Pass the toilet block, picnic area and grave sites and then steeply up the hill. This walk is our favourite because we can

get the muscles warm and the breath moving without taking all day. It’s shaded the whole way and there are wonderful sea views stretching both to the north and south from the top.

Walk four: Tai po kau Another shaded walk for summer is further away at Tai Po Kau. Head by car or taxi towards Tai Po Market, but once you leave the Tolo

Highway, turn back on yourself at the first roundabout and head up Old Tai Po Road, parking at the entrance to the country park. This is Hong Kong’s most glorious patch of mature forest, and a wonderland of creeks, pools and rambling trails. Even on busy weekends there is enough scope on the well-signposted yellow and brown trails for the enthusiastic one to run freely.

These four walks are just a sample of Hong Kong's many great hikes. But they are guaranteed to have Spot or Lucky curled contentedly on his bean bag in the evening, with closed eyes flickering with happy memories.

Jackie Peers is a director of Walk Hong Kong, a unique company offering guided hikes to areas such as Tai Po Kau. She also runs photography courses in the Sai Kung area. Details at www.walkhongkong.com.


travel

It’s grim up North, they say. And Beijing, with its population nearing 20 million and infamous dust storms, gets a tough rap. So I was surprised to find, on a recent trip with my four children in tow, just how pleasant and user friendly the city actually is.

The city centre is green and low-rise and carved up by wide, Parisian-style boulevards. Parks and green spaces pleasantly intersperse the mad-cap traffic and the concrete. Much of the architecture, both new and ancient, is stunning. And the people are charming and — government issued phrase books in hand — really do try their very best to help tourists find their way. Pollution, no doubt, is a problem. But during my trip the sun shone from blue skies. The only visibility issue I encountered was a thick fog out on

the country’s major universities, art galleries, historical treasure. And there is scarcely a major building of any age in Beijing that does not have at least some national historical significance. Whizzing across town in taxi cabs, is an experience of driving through dense layers of Chinese history: Every street corner seems to offer an opulent palace, an ancient temple, a fragment of medieval wall or some cluster of industrial-sized government buildings. It is a city that demands time of the tourist.

But we just had three days. So to cram as much of this fascinating city into our short stay as possible, we joined a city tour. It was a long day with a lot of walking (don’t forget your comfiest trainers), but it was fascinating and even held my young daughters’ interest. We started the day in Tiananmen

Square, the centre of Beijing and the heart of China. The only word for it is vast. It’s not pretty, but it is redolent with history. Today, with Chairman Mao’s iconic, outdoor portrait always on display, it is easy to close your eyes and imagine the rallies and protests unfolding there.

The Square lies opposite the 600-year old Gate of Heavenly Peace, the entrance most commonly used to enter the Forbidden City, Beijing’s huge imperial palace, the best preserved of its kind in China. If you’re not up for a long walk, bear in mind that once you enter, you cannot exit through the same gates, so you have to press on through this vast space until you reach the Gate of Divine Might on the opposite side. But even if you do end up with the odd blister, count yourself lucky. Once married, the new empresses

the Great Wall, a couple of hours outside of Beijing, which (apologies to Clear The Air) was actually rather romantic.

The city drips history. Beijing — which literally means ‘northern capital’ — has been the heart of China’s history for centuries, longer than almost any other world capital. It is the home of many of

The big smokeCarolynne dear visits our nation’s capital.


oriental travails

were led into the Forbidden City never to emerge again.

Our guide, Bill (Bill Liang: +86 139 1148 6833), did a great job pointing out the many significant parts of this enormous palace. It covers over 170 acres and consists of no less than 90 palaces and courtyards. We would have been factually lost without him. The Palace is of huge importance historically and is recognized as one of the five most important palaces in the world (the others being Buckingham Palace, the Palace of Versailles, the Kremlin and the White House).

After a brief rest on the tour bus, next up was the Temple of Heaven. This is actually a complex of temples constructed in the 1400s, at the same time as the Forbidden City and commissioned by the same emperor. The

buildings today sit in beautiful parkland. Around 20,000 Beijingers visit the park daily to exercise. Of particular fascination were the ball-room dancers, swirling and quick-stepping their way over a small section of the park to the accompaniment of amplified Chinese dance music.

After the concrete of Hong Kong, the huge grass lawns of

the park proved such an attraction that we returned by rickshaw the following day. There are vendors of cheap bats, balls and other outdoor game paraphernalia all over the park, which ensured an enjoyable couple of hours with the kids. After a leisurely lunch, we were driven out to the Summer Palace. This is the most celebrated imperial garden in China and was constructed in the 1750s as a summer resort for the emperors. Unfortunately by this time of the day (mid-afternoon), the gardens were crammed with tourists. We made our way through the crowds to the Long Corridor (in fact the longest corridor of its kind in the world) that wound itself pleasantly along the shores of the Kunming Lake. We then caught a pleasure boat back to the entrance of the park.

Getting there and elsewhereBeijing is a painless three-and-a-half hour flight from Hong Kong and Air China makes six direct trips per day, so take your pick!

And if you’re feeling adventurous, Air China makes daily direct flights to other Chinese cities, including to Dalian once per day and Chengdu — fourth on the list of China’s most livable cities — twice per day.

Visit www.webjet.com for deals, flight details and to make a booking.


pets

My dog is sulking again. I have successfully wrestled with him to change his tick collar — but battling with an unwilling dog is preferable to finding ticks on his fur, and these hot and sticky months are ticky weather.

Many people have an irrational fear of these unwanted dinner guests, but it’s important not to become frantic.

While on duty in Britain a long time ago, a panicked client called from the local pub to say he was rushing in with an emergency. All I caught of the garbled message was “huge tick” and “it won’t budge”. Not amused at being hauled from my bed to remove a parasite, I drove across town to meet him. It was worse than I thought.

Apparently as Bingo lounged under his master’s feet at the Drover’s Arms, someone stroked him

So on to folk remedy number two, a box of matches. You don’t need a chemistry degree to know what happens when alcohol meets a naked flame (think Christmas pudding). Thanks to the quick thinking of the only sober person on the scene (the barman), who smothered him with a coat, Bingo escaped with only singed hair and a fear of drunken smokers.

Reassured that the quivering canine suffered no serious physical damage, his chagrined owner snarled, “Vetrny [this is how vets are addressed in parts of rural England] – what about that... thing!” Yes, the soused and slightly charred bloodsucker was still hanging on.

Luckily, my veterinary training ensured that I was able to deftly remove the pest in seconds, much to the amazement and annoyance of the client and his mates.

Upon seeing ticks, most people will attempt to tug and pull. I don’t recommend this. Upset ticks can regurgitate gut contents into your dog’s skin, increasing the chances of transmitting two or more potentially fatal blood parasites into your dog. After losing

and found an engorged tick. The beer-drinking community assembled to offer suggestions, opting for folk remedy number one; Despite 30 minutes of being doused in 40 per cent vodka, the inebriated acarid wasn’t letting go.

Tick factsTicks tend to hide out in tall grass or plants in wooded areas waiting for prospective hosts. Once a host is found, the tick climbs on and attaches its mouthparts into the skin, beginning the blood meal. Once locked in place, the tick will not detach until its meal is complete. It may continue to feed for several hours to days, depending on the type of tick. On dogs, ticks often attach themselves in crevices and/or areas with little to no hair – typically in and around the ears, the areas where the insides of the legs meet the body, between the toes, and within skin folds.

a beloved canine friend to a tick, I am now rigorous about preventing them. Whether he likes it or not, my stubborn mutt gets a new Preventic collar monthly, as well as a topical insecticide. Because, let’s face it, ticks suck.

Dr Carmel Taylor MVB MRCVS DipAiCVD is a veterinary dermatologist and consults at many different clinics around the territory. For appointments please call 9251 9588 or visit www.cutaneous.com.hk

Ticked offdr Carmel Taylor takes on some pesky bloodsuckers.

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NewsGuide dog returnsHong Kong got its first guide in 36 years last month, when a one-year old labrador named “Google” was given to a local pensioner. Guide dogs have been non-existent in Hong Kong since the last one was struck by a car 36 years ago and an expert deemed the city too noisy and crowded for their safety. “Google” will stay with her new master — who has been blind for 20 years — for the rest of her life now. She has been trained to escort him around the city, including the MTR. If all goes well, more guide dogs will be introduced to the city.

Cruel intentionsPolice are offering a $160,000 reward of for information that may lead to the arrest of the Bowen Road dog poisoner, after several more dogs were poisoned after eating tainted scraps left on the popular pedestrian track. Dog walkers are advised to be extremely cautious of poisoned dog bait deliberately left along the footpath as well as on the slopes.

Standing firmCosmetics giant The Body Shop reaffirmed this month that it will not be opening any shops in China while a law demanding that all cosmetics are tested on animals remains in place.


gardeningNursery TrawlJane Ram scours the city’s kaleidoscopic flower markets.

Shortly before writing this column, I accompanied a couple of keen gardening friends on a stroll along what is sometimes dubbed as Sai Kung’s ‘flower market’ street. We had to pick our way between excavators and trench-work, but it was an interesting and enlightening expedition nonetheless. Although we pretended that it wasn’t a real plant-buying expedition, our noses were twitching as a friend had heard about a special Passiflora hereabouts. Alas, if it was there, it eluded us. For the most part, the outrageous prices aroused more interest than the plants themselves. We left empty-handed and headed to the nearby Wing Ho Yuen nursery. Once there, just as my eyes were starting to glaze over, I found a plant that I have been trying to acquire for years. Unlike the familiar Cestrum nocturnum — sometimes called Queen of the Night — the equally fragrant Cestrum diurnum flowers during the day. As a bonus, its rich yellow flower went nicely alongside a Nong nooch vine, another yellow flowering beauty that I was recently given.

Mongkok Flower streetsMongkok was our next stop and the prices there made what we had seen earlier in Sai Kung look quite reasonable by comparison. It seems that very few sellers are also growers these days. Most of the expensive plants come directly from

nurseries in Belgium or the Netherlands with barely a pause en route to acclimatise before they reach the air-conditioned showrooms. Rather than something to be cherished and enjoyed for a long time, they seem to be regarded as an alternative to a bouquet, destined for landfill within a few weeks at best. It was a different story on the pavements, which were overflowing with sturdy looking plants from China at $10 per pot. I was tempted by some of the hybrid Portulacas. A shop also had an interesting display of small Episceas and

other Gesneriads. I enjoyed looking at the gaudy Vandas hanging on wires, almost mimicking the laundry swinging from the windows of the houses in the neighbourhood. The fun and enjoyment of browsing, notwithstanding, for serious buying, I would continue to head to my favourite nurseries in the northern New Territories.

To get to this botanical wonderland, take the MTR to prince Edward Station, get out at exit B2 and walk along prince Edward Road West until you reach Flower Market Road.

gardening

Cheap and cheerful pavement display in Mongkok (below).

1. Prolonged spells of sunshine tend to compact soil in pots or in the ground. Your plants will appreciate some gentle aeration with a fork.

2. Cuttings of Allamanda and Hibiscus should take successfully during this season. If you are pruning your favourite Bougainvillea, try a few cuttings of it too. Use plenty of coarse vermiculite or sand for drainage. Leave the pots undisturbed in shade for at least a month before you check on their progress.

3. Prior to the big seed sowing season, which starts next month, you can sow some Amaranthus tricolour — also known as Chinese spinach. Its red-veined leaves and compact growth make it a decorative and delicious plant. It can be treated like regular spinach, although it tends to lose its red colour in the cooking process. Its young leaves can be eaten raw, but everyone might not like its slightly rough texture.

4. Seeds of lettuce, cucumbers and Chinese long beans should all succeed now, if you shelter them from heavy rains. Save barbecue ash to sprinkle around the plants to discourage slugs and snails.

August garden tasks


Gingers for all GardensThe familiar gnarled grey-skinned rhizomes on market stalls and the ethereal white blooms that perfume the air in this season are just two of the thousand members of the Ginger family. Most flourish in this climate and are almost unparalleled in their beauty and wide variety. Whether you are looking for flowers or foliage, planning on creating a big sunny garden or a small balcony or even a tiny windowsill space, there will be at least one kind that is right for you. Guangzhou’s South China Botanical Garden has an outstanding section dedicated to Gingers.

Jane Ram is a professional writer with a passion for plants. She has been gardening in Hong Kong for over 30 years and is still learning. Please email her at [email protected] with comments and queries, and to be kept informed of occasional workshops and excursions for gardeners.

Get in touch with Jane if you are interested in a guided day trip to the spectacular Ginger section at Guangzhou’s South China Botanical Garden on August 9 or a visit to a specialist nursery in New Territories dedicated to the propagation and cultivation of native species, on August 24. The itinerary will also feature visits to Hong kong’s Eco-park and the kadoorie Farm & Botanical Garden.

flower hunting

Four unusual members of the ginger family, all of which were photographed flourishing in Hong kong (left, top and opposite page).


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bird at my window

The Black-collared Starlingaka Gracupica nigricollis

Last month, I wrote about the crested myna. Another member of the starling family that readers will be familiar with is the black-collared starling. It is readily identifiable by its black and white plumage, the yellow patch around its eye and its raucous, ringing alli-olli calls. At this time of year, there will also be plenty of juveniles around; these young birds have a sullied grey neck and breast, lacking the dark collar that gives the bird its English and Latin names.

Unlike the crested myna and most other starlings, the black-collared starling does not utilise holes for nest-building. Instead it builds its nest — a large, untidy, dome-shaped structure made mainly of twigs and grasses — on the tops of trees or man-made structures such as utility poles. The female lays from three to five bluish-coloured eggs and up to three broods may be raised in one season. Nests may be reused in successive years.

The black-collared starling is a resident species found in Myanmar, Thailand and Indochina. In China, it extends west from Yunnan to Fujian. In the 1950s, it was only found in the agricultural areas of the northern New Territories in Hong Kong, but since then the bird has spread southwards to Kowloon and Hong Kong Island where it can frequently be seen in urban parks.

david diskin is the author of Hong kong Nature Walks: The New Territories. Visit www.hknaturewalks.com or www.accipiterpress.com for more information.


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VoLUNTARY poSiTioNS NEEdEdSai kung Stray Friends*Kennel Carer - 1 or 2 days per week*Weekend Sai Kung Homing Team*Fundraising Director*Website director*Daily Meals on Wheels delivery roster*Rescue & DesexingJoin us in our local community initiative to help our beautiful animals.Email: [email protected] Narelle: 9199.2340 (English)Jessie: 9097.4591 (Chinese)

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

doNATE CLoTHES, SHoES, BookS, toys and electrical appliances in good condition. Reach out to help the poor and disadvantaged men, women and children in our communities. All profits help the needy in Hong Kong and mainland China. Collection hotline: 2716 8778. Donation hotline: 2716 8862. Website: www.christian-action.org.hk Blog: http://siewmei.cahk.org Email: [email protected]

Experienced Cantonese-speaking and Mandarin-speaking nanny. Good moral character and childcare knowledge. Qualified teaching background. Available to start in September. Please call 6181 3365 or email : [email protected]

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

Domestic helper seeks full time employer. Jacqueline Liagon, 44yrs old, filipino (married with 2 children). Experience in household chores, children, pets, elderly, babysitting. I'm hardworking, flexible, can work independently. Experience in expat family and chinese family. Pls call my mobile no.92478937. References from previous employers are available on hand. Thanks.

Part Time Helper available. I am a happy and helpful domestic helper with 8 years broad experience. I have a pleasant demeanor and get along well with babies, children and parents alike. I am available for several times a week or every day part time. Sarah 6715 3093, [email protected]

people Bereaved by Suicide (pBS)An English-speaking support group meets first Wednesday each month, 8pm, at the Mariners’ Club, TST. Free, confidential. Further information, tel 28960000 or check http://www.Samaritans.org.hk

The Samaritans’ Support Group for people Bereaved by SuicideAn English-speaking support group meets on the first Wednesday of each month, 8 pm, The Mariners’ Club, TST. Free & confidential. For further information, please tel 2896 0000 or check http://www.samaritans.org.hk

Craft TeachersWe are looking for people to teach crafts at schools around Hong Kong. This is a part time role. Please email us [email protected] for more information

piLATES iNSTRUCToR WANTEd Small friendly studio in Stanley is looking for qualified Allegro and Mat Pilates Instructors.Contact Louise at:ALLEGRO PILATES STUDIOPh: 62957881or visit: www.pilatesinstanley.com

Email [email protected] for classifieds booking

for classifieds booking or call 2776 2772

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

Larvotto Due to popular demand, we’ve increased distribution to Larvotto by 30%. This marine-themed luxury residential complex offers unmatched waterfront views and is only 5 minutes from upscale shopping at Horizon Plaza. Southside Magazine can be found at the Larvotto clubhouse on the coffee tables of many of its residents.

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

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

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

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

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

Tai Tam / Shek o- American Club- Beach Front Kiosk- Ben’s Garden- Black Sheep- Craigengower Cricket Club- Fusion (Park'N Shop)- Happy Garden Restaurant- Hong Kong Cricket Club- Hong Kong International School- Hong Kong Parkview Resort & Spa- Hong Kong Parkview Suites- Lulu Shop- Pacific View Residential Clubhouse

- PIPS Kindergarten- Redhill Clubhouse

- Shek O Chinese & Thai Restaurant- Shining Stone Restaurant- Soma Spa

- Sunshine House Tai Tam- Wellcome, Red Hill Plaza

- Woodland Tai Tam Montessori Pre-School

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

Cyberport

Chi Fu

pok Fu Lam

Aberdeen

Shouson Hill

deep Water Bay

Repulse Bay

Chung Hom kok

Red Hill

The Manhattan

Tai Tamparkview

Bel-AirBig Wave Bay

Shek o

Ap Lei Chau

Stanley

The peak

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

Manhattan TowerThis exclusive residential building, tucked away in a lush country park setting, houses some of the most stunning apartments on the Southside. All 40 units are 2,400 square feet with fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms, teak floors and best of all, large balconies to soak up the breathtaking views of Deep Water Bay and the South China Sea. Southside Magazine is now conveniently placed at the Manhattan Tower reception.

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

Wong Chuk Hang

one island SouthLocated in the elegant surrounding of Wong Chuk Hang, this highly prestigious office building with spacious design offers a fresh new world of unlimited potential for work, life and innovation. One Island South is ideally located with inspiring sea views of Deep Water Bay and lush greenery of Shouson Hill. Employees at One Island South can now find Southside Magazine located at the lobby.


where to find us

The Repulse Bay Bel-Air

Cyberport Arcade Le Meridien Cyberport

Redhill peninsula The Manhattan

Pacific View Hong kong parkview

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

It’s easy as pie and best of all, completely free of charge. Send all enquiries to [email protected] call (852) 2776 2772

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

Sign up herewww.southside.hk/subscribe



my southside

myself living anywhere else — living here feels right in my heart and intuition.

Any favourite outdoor activities? I love getting the ferry to Top Deck in Aberdeen, it’s such a nice trip for visitors. I love exploring and finding new trails and walks; I’ve recently found a trail from Aberdeen. I love to sunbathe and swim in the pool at Shum Wan Towers. I am a regular mermaid, I can’t go too long away from the water.

How would you like to see Southside develop? It’s going through tremendous development. I have lived in Ap Lei Chau for four years and now there are huge plans for the MTR, a shopping mall, upgrading Ocean Park with a hotel, not to mention all these new residential complexes. I welcome the changes, it’s a sign of things getting bigger and better.

What brought you to Southside? From the moment I popped out of my Mother’s tummy, I have been living in Southside. It is part of my destiny. I follow feng shui and all the masters that have looked at my chart tell me Southside is auspicious and lucky for me. So far, it has been true.

Why do you think Southside appeals to expats? It offers a lot of locations near the water or surrounded by lush greenery. You’re connected with nature without being cut off from the city. And the schools are the best of the best.

What is your favourite restaurant in Southside? There are many wonderful restaurants, but if I have to pick one it’s Stanley’s Spiaggia. It’s run by the most amazing and knowledgeable Swiss chef, Rolf Schneider. His menu leaves you spoiled for choice, plus the taste and quality are second to none. It’s a relaxed, inviting atmosphere and prices are very reasonable.

What’s the key to intuity World’s success? Spending time on Intuity World’s vision and mission has been intrinsic to its success; the qualities of love, light and freedom act as anchors and reminders of what we’re about. I love coaching and seeing the ripple effects it creates in clients or their lives. I love it when a client has a breakthrough moment and shifts their reality or circumstances, producing the result he or she was looking for. It’s wonderful to see clients living the life they thought was a dream.

What advice would you give busy Hong kong people about keeping balanced? Even if you are on the go or in a rush, there are things you can do to help centre yourself. Listening to uplifting music or making healing

affirmations on the minibus will alter the quality of your day. Start with ten minutes then build up to 20 minutes then to an hour. Ingrain the habit, that’s the key.

How do you spend your down time? I love to be outside in nature whether it’s on a boat, taking a walk or sitting by the pool. I also love to dance the 5Rhythms by Gabrielle Roth, it’s a movement meditation that allows you to connect you with your mind, body and spirit. I love to see art exhibitions and shows. I live for culture and entertainment, it’s the lifeblood of my creativity.

What do you like best about Southside? I love looking out my window and seeing old Hong Kong fishing boats merged with the new elements of Hong Kong. I love the blend of traditional culture and the modern, it makes for a truly eclectic mix. It’s hard for me to picture

pascale SeilerSouthside Magazine speaks to founder of spiritual centre intuity World and life-long Southside resident, pascale Seiler.

I follow feng shui and all the masters that have looked at my chart tell me Southside is auspicious and lucky for me. So far, it has been true.

southside magazine august 2012

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