August / September 2019
WIN! Day passes to
Hong Kong Disneyland
TAKE A GUIDED TOUR OF THE ISLAND’S BEST BEACHES
BOOST THE FENG SHUI ON YOUR BALCONY OR TERRACE
HIKE THE LANTAU TRAIL (SECTIONS 10 TO 12)
Remarkable Renee 2 0 1 9 YOUNG W R IT E RS CO MP E T IT I O N WI N N E R NEWS & EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE
Publishers in Lantau since 2002
You may believe that you have a sound financial plan and feel confident about the future but when was the last time you gave serious thought to your overall financial strategy?
Do you have assets in multiple jurisdictions (bank accounts, property, investments)? Are your assets invested in a tax eicient manner? If you died, would your spouse know where all your assets are? How confident are you that your insurances provide adequate protection for you and your family? Do you have a suiciently diversified retirement strategy?
August / September 2019
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FEATURES
REGULARS
AGENDA
10 PERSONA
15 SPOTLIGHT
04 LANTAU NEWS
The Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writers Competition (YWC) finalists
22 DISPATCH
Final in the series: Hiking sections 10, 11 and 12 of the Lantau Trail
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August / September 2019
WIN! Day passes to Hong Kong Disneyland
TAKE A GUIDED TOUR OF THE ISLAND’S BEST BEACHES
BOOST THE FENG SHUI ON YOUR BALCONY OR TERRACE
HIKE THE LANTAU TRAIL (SECTIONS 10 TO 12)
Remarkable Renee 20 1 9 YOU NG WR ITERS COMPE T IT ION WIN NE R NEWS & EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE
Publishers in Lantau since 2002
08 GIVEAWAYS
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34 LANTAU FACES
37 CLASSIFIEDS
Out and about
30 WALKABOUT
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29 FENG SHUI The basics
From Pui O to Tai Long Wan: Take a guided tour of the island’s best beaches
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YWC winning story
R
ON THE
COVER Renee Tan: Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writers Competition winner To read the cover story, turn to page 10. For Renee’s winning story, turn to page 15.
40 NEED 2 KNOW Mid-Autumn Festival 32
Top tips on probate from Carey, Suen Will Services
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AUGUST 2019
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2 LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
38 LOCAL NUMBERS
www.lifeonlantau.com
and www.lifeonlantau.com
Beat the back-to-school blues Why the Brownies are a big hit in DB
Chinese banqueting etiquette 8 reasons to visit Nha Trang
CHORAL ACCLAIM
Woman of Inspiration award-winner Jane Engelmann ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS * PRIZES * COMMUNITY SNAPS * CLASSIFIEDS * THOUGHTS ON ISLAND LIFE
FREE
Check out exciting new changes at Silvermine Bay School. Formerly ‘Mui Wo OWLS School’, now with a fresh new name and face, the school is under new management, with James Ramsey as the new School Supervisor and Will Tong as Principal.
Reception to P6 places available Admissions: 2984 0006
A Lantau Private Primary School for International Students Guaranteed Maximum Class Size of 16 Please contact us to schedule a school visit T: +852 2984 0006 | E: office@silverminebayschool.edu.hk | www.silverminebayschool.edu.hk Units A & B, 1/F Silver Centre Building, 10 Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, New Territories silverminebayschool EDB Reg No: 579009
PUBLISHER Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk MANAGING EDITOR Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Elizabeth Jerabek elizabeth@baymedia.com.hk ART DIRECTION Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk ASSISTANT GRAPHIC DESIGNER Duey Tam duey@baymedia.com.hk DIGITAL AND EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Alexander Grasic alexander@baymedia.com.hk SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER Monika Carruthers monika@baymedia.com.hk OFFICE MANAGER Nikki-Ann Yee nikki@baymedia.com.hk PHOTOGRAPHERS Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk Duey Tam duey@baymedia.com.hk INTERN Kayla Adara Lee production@baymedia.com.hk CONTRIBUTORS Elizabeth Kerr Claire Severn Renee Tan Samantha Wong PRINTING Champion Design & Production Co. Ltd Flat C & D 9/F Sing Teck Factory Bldg 44 Wong Chuk Hang Rd Hong Kong DISCLAIMER The views expressed in Life on Lantau are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or contributors. The publisher and editor cannot be held responsible for differences of opinion or statements published in good faith. The publisher, contributors, their employees and partners are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication and expressly disclaim all and any liability for any such action of any person. The mention of specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without permission.
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NEW ARTS AND CULTURE PROJECT CELEBRATES HONG KONG’S HIDDEN FORESTS
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Illustrations by Sally Grace Bunker
eak typhoon season has begun, bringing with it memories of 2018’s tropical cyclone Typhoon Mangkhut, which caused a record storm surge and uprooted over 1,500 trees across Hong Kong. With that in mind, Asia Society Hong Kong (ASHK) is presenting a new arts and culture project, Hidden Forests, at its centre in Admiralty through September 8.
Hidden Forests comprises an art exhibition and music series, community workshops and nature tours that explore the significance of trees to Hong Kong’s environment, culture and history. The goal of the cross-disciplinary programme is to strengthen public awareness about forestry and biodiversity in Hong Kong by bringing together expert ecologists and local artistic talent. One of the featured artists is long-time Mui Wo resident Sally Grace Bunker. A fellow of the Society of Botanical Artists UK, Sally has spent the past seven years working alongside two botanists from the University of Hong Kong, Professor Richard Saunders and Dr Pang Chun-chiu, on Portraits of Trees of Hong Kong and Southern China. This impressive tome, which features over 100 of Sally’s gorgeous watercolour illustrations, hit the shelves in May. “Portraits highlights 109 of Hong Kong’s 390 native tree species,” Sally says. “Our aim has been to celebrate Hong Kong’s most historic trees, through scientifically accurate botanical art in the tradition of the great floras of past centuries.” Due to the close correlation between Portraits and Hidden Forests, ASHK invited Sally to exhibit 30 of her paintings. Among the many activities available through the Hidden Forests programme, Sally is holding a series of free workshops aimed at showing children and adults what botanical art involves. Online registration is required at ticketing.asiasociety.org.hk. To find out more about ASHK’s Hidden Forests exhibition, visit asiasociety.org. For more on Sally, visit www.leafy.hk.
LANTAU NEWS
WHAT’S HAPPENING Feral Cattle) fundraising campaign, aiming to produce 100 new ‘Road Safety & No Feeding Bilingual Cow Collars.’ Through the GoGetFunding campaign, TOCCG aims to cover the cost of the fluorescent collars, which will be fitted on feral cattle residing in Ngong Ping, Tai O, Shek Pik, Shui Hau, Tong Fuk and Cheung Sha. The collars help TOCCG with daily monitoring, act as a deterrent to those tempted to feed the cows, and reduce the risk of cattle being involved in road accidents. Each collar costs just HK$150 to make.
ONE COLLAR, ONE LIFE (SAVING FERAL CATTLE) FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
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emnants of an agrarian past, feral cattle and water buffalo are part of the integral fauna of Lantau. As such, the Tai O Community Cattle Group (TOCCG), a registered NGO since 2014, works to better their standing within the community, protect their welfare and spread awareness of the issues they face. In addition to daily monitoring of the cattle’s health and safety, TOCCG manages a hotline for reporting road accidents and works to discourage the public from feeding them.
“We hope that with your contributions we can continue to keep the cows more visible as they travel the road at night, and stop them from being fed,” says Milea Lea of TOCCG. “We have less than 10 collars left right now, so we need your help!” To contribute to the One Collar, One Life (Saving Feral Cattle) campaign, visit gogetfunding.com/one-collar-one-life-saving-feral-cattle. To get involved with the Tai O Lantau Island Community Cattle Group, email taioccg@gmail.com, or visit www.facebook.com/groups/taiocommunitycattlegroup.
“Due to the shortage of signage and lack of public education on the issue, the cows are subjected to constant stress and [they are given] unsuitable food by tourists on a daily basis,” says Kathy Daxon, chairwoman of TOCCG. “Food such as raw corn, apples – which are swallowed whole – and sweet potatoes, as well as snacks such as cake, bread, chips, candy, ice cream and even meat are being fed to them.” Actively involved in the welfare of Lantau’s cattle since 2014, TOCCG is currently revisiting its One Collar, One Life (Saving
Photo by Andrew Spires
MOONTREKKER MANGROVE CLEAN-UP
N
ew this year, the guys at Barclays MoonTrekker have teamed up with The Nature Conservancy to organise a clean-up of beautiful Tung Chung Bay on August 17. This is your chance to give back and learn more about the importance of shoreline estuaries, their biodiversity and the challenges they face.
The event runs from 3pm to 5pm and for HK$100 per person, you get snacks, drinks and clean-up equipment. To sign up, email registration@moontrekker.com.
www.barclaysmoontrekker.com www.lifeonlantau.com
August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 5
SPONSORED CONTENT
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN A SEA OF COLOURS AT
DB’S FUNTASTIC BEACH CARNIVAL
W
hether you are looking to lead your #bestlife on social media or seeking a summer escape right in your own backyard, DB’s Funtastic Beach Carnival, running through August 25, has you covered.
Also available on weekends at Tai Pak Beach, from 2pm to 6pm, is the Wet N’ Wild Foam Party, where kids (they have to be at least 90 centimetres tall) can create their very own foam ‘clouds’ and romp in a sudsy sea of bubbles. A visit to a food cart for cotton candy and popcorn is next in line.
Tai Pak Beach is decked out with brightly coloured beach huts that give it a French Riviera feel, and make it an Instagramworthy backdrop for summer vacation photos. Colourful beach benches and umbrellas provide plenty of open space and shade for adults and children alike, as they sit back to enjoy some beachside fun.
The summer extravaganza continues in DB North Plaza with a playful installation of flaming pink flamingos providing another great photo op. And on weekends, from 12pm to 6pm, there’s more fun on offer for the kids, with entertainment booths providing balloon twisting and face painting.
Should you choose to take a dip, Funtastic beach floats in adorable shapes and designs are available on weekends, from 12pm to 6pm. Watch your cares float away as you perch on the back of a giant inflatable flamingo – and be sure to take a selfie with the brilliant blue sea as your backdrop. 6 LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
www.lifeonlantau.com
So how do you take advantage of everything that’s on offer at this year’s Funtastic Beach Carnival? That’s easy – you need activity passes, and to get your hands on these, simply spend HK$180 or more at any DB restaurant. You then present an on-day dining receipt at the Dine ‘N Ride Service Counter in DB Plaza or an Activity Booth in DB North Plaza to redeem one activity pass (plus a free ferry ride into town).
PICK UP AN ACTIVITY PASS To be eligible for one Funtastic Beach Carnival activity pass and the Dine ‘N Ride promotion, spend just HK$180 at any DB restaurant (at DB Plaza, D’Deck, DB North Plaza or Auberge Discovery Bay), and present an on-day dining receipt at the Dine ‘N Ride Service Counter in DB Plaza or an Activity Booth in DB North Plaza.
HAVE YOURSELF SOME FUN One activity pass entitles you to: • Two hours of inflatable fun! When you borrow a Funtastic beach float, registration and a deposit of HK$100 are required, with the deposit refunded in full upon the return of each inflatable • Free admission to the Wet N’ Wild Foam Party on Tai Pak Beach • One free serving of popcorn or cotton candy from a food cart on Tai Pak Beach • Free balloon twisting and body painting at DB North Plaza
TAKE A SUMMER STAYCATION Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong is offering two special summer accommodation packages, available from July 12 to September 1. • Summer Family Adventure package includes a one-night stay in a mountain-view room, breakfast buffet for two adults and one child, and EpicLand tickets for one adult and one child. HK$1,688* for two adults and one child aged below 11 years • The Summer Stay & Dine package includes a one-night stay in a mountain-view room, plus breakfast and dinner buffet for two adults. HK$1,988* for two adults
*Terms and conditions apply. All prices are subject to 10% service charge.
www.lifeonlantau.com
August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 7
GIVEAWAYS
WIN DAY PASSES TO HONG KONG DISNEYLAND
Here’s your chance to win great prizes! Life on Lantau prizes are incredibly easy to get your hands on, and you have until August 10 to apply. Simply scan the barcode, or go to www.lifeonlantau.com/giveaways, select the giveaway you want, and enter your details into the online form.
Hong Kong Disneyland is offering two readers two day passes (worth HK$639 per ticket) to ‘the happiest place on earth.’ With more than 30 attractions, Hong Kong Disneyland comprises seven lands – Adventureland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point, Toy Story Land, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland and Main Street, U.S.A. There are exciting live shows on offer, including Festival of the Lion King and Mickey and the Wondrous Book, plus the chance to meet your favourite Disney characters. For more information, visit www.hongkongdisneyland.com.
www.hongkongdisneyland.com
Congratulations to last issue’s winners Natalya Spendelow and Farrah Hernandez for a place on a Twinkle Dance summer camp; Rebecca Tolian for a place on a Treasure Island summer camp; and Nancy Wendel and Gary Cumper for a voucher to dine at A Tavola Bar & Grill.
Extracurricular fun! As the kids head back to school, here are six activities they can enjoy outside of class
OUTDOOR
PERFORMANCE
ARK EDEN
ISLAND DANCE
Ark Eden brings out the adventurous, curious and compassionate side of children aged five to 11 years by providing them with educational outdoor fun. Held in the foothills of Mui Wo, the eco-based programme offers various different activities, including gardening, treehouse building, campfire cooking and swimming in waterfalls.
Island Dance provides dance instruction in disco freestyle, ballet, hip-hop and tap at over 17 venues across Hong Kong and Kowloon, and in DB. The school’s diverse, creative and talented instructors train over 1,000 students from the age of 18 months to adult, preparing them for a career in dance and the performing arts.
2988 5355 info@arkedenonlantau.org www.arkedenonlantau.org
2987 1571 info@islanddance.com.hk www.islanddance.com.hk
TWINKLE DANCE COMPANY From locations across Hong Kong, including DB, Twinkle Dance provides a variety of dance classes, including ballet, jazz and contemporary for both children and adults. With classes available for children as young as 18 months, Twinkle Dance prioritises safety and fun, and all classes allow children to explore and enjoy the creativity, artistry and physicality of dance. 6608 6689 info@twinkledance.com www.twinkledance.com
SPORTS DBEES
ESF SPORTS
Non-profit DB community-based ice hockey team the DBees offers yearround coaching for girls and boys of all skill levels, aged five years and up. With a new rink opening in DB in April 2020, the DBees are looking for more participation from the DB community – players, coaches and support volunteers. Join the team now to participate in the 2019-2020 season at Elements Rink in Kowloon.
Each week, over 4,000 young athletes run, jump, throw, kick, balance, smile, laugh and develop their love of sports with ESF Sports. The role and power of sport in the development of young children cannot be underestimated. ESF Sports uses its knowledge and passion for sport to provide a range of fun, exciting, challenging and structured sports programmes, across Hong Kong, which are designed to foster a lifelong love of sport. All ESF sports are open to both ESF and non-ESF students.
nstuartwinchester@gmail.com www.dbeeshockey.com
2711 1280 www.esf.org.hk/sports/overview
HK DRAGONS FOOTBALL CLUB HK Dragons Football Club offers year-round coaching in Pui O, DB and Stanley for girls and boys of all abilities, aged three to 18 years. Coaches aim to motivate players to try new things, develop their game skills and realise their full potential, both on and off the pitch. 5322 5556 theoffice@dragons.hk www.dragons.hk
PERSONA
Photo by Duey Tam
Scarily Good
This year’s diverse group of Young Writers Competition finalists vindicate the power of imagination and demonstrate the power of creativity. Elizabeth Kerr reports
Renee Tan, 15, Discovery College; Millie Zoë Tarrant, 12, Discovery College and Hermione Barnes-Clay, 13, Discovery Bay International School
10 LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
www.lifeonlantau.com
A
sk Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writers Competition (YWC) entrants Renee Tan, Millie Zoë Tarrant and Hermione Barnes-Clay if they believe in ghosts and the response is three blank faces and cricket-level silence. Ironically, the trio are the finalists in this year’s contest, which demanded a ghost story. So much for writing what you know. “When I was little and played around with friends asking if you believe in ghosts I was always ‘Yes – and no,’” says Hermione, 13, who attends Discovery Bay International School (DBIS). “I don’t know. I would say no but I guess it could be possible.” Possibility is good enough for Discovery College’s (DC) Millie, 12, who chimes in with an answer that hints at her active imagination and engagement with the written word. “I used to read a lot of ghost stories when I believed in them, when I was, like, seven. But anything’s possible, I guess.” DC’s Renee, 15, is the most cautious of the three, finishing with an answer that hedges all bets. “I don’t know about ghosts, but maybe something like spirits. I’m not sure. If you don’t know then maybe you just don’t say absolutely ‘No.’” This year’s competition once again put a call out to all secondary school writers currently attending school or living on Lantau for creative writing to be judged by a trio of author-mentors: Peter Sherwood, Trisha Hughes and new recruit John Saeki.
Trisha, who has a string of publications to her name including the V2V series of historical fiction and bestselling memoir Daughters of Nazareth, says the strength of Renee’s story made her job easy. “All she needed was a few suggestions to make it more suspenseful and a bit of editing to finish it off. And she didn’t let me down. She listened to everything I suggested and she has produced a remarkably polished story.”
With Watching, Renee switches up the point-of-view so that the story is told from the ghost’s perspective and she actively hopes to make a connection between the ghost and the reader
The finalists’ stories went to an online vote on Facebook from June 7 to 14, with Renee placing first, Millie second and Hermione third. You can read Renee’s winning story on page 15. The runners-up, Rebecca Tilbrook, 15, DBIS; Ada Arho Havren, 15, DC and Kayla Adara Lee, 15, YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, as well as the finalists, each received a selection of books from Bookazine at a prize-giving ceremony at DBIS on June 19.
With Watching, Renee switches up the point-of-view so that the story is told from the ghost’s perspective and she actively hopes to make a connection between the ghost and the reader. “A true horror story is not one where a zombie or a vampire jumps out at you with gnashing teeth,” says Trisha. “There is nothing more scary than a story written about every day occurrences that leaves the reader in suspense, then concludes with a dramatic ending.”
Books proved the perfect gift for Renee, Millie and Hermione, each of whom is an avid reader – if not on a career path to authorship. Ask what the girls plan on doing with their lives (bear in mind, the oldest is 15), and only Hermione can see writing playing a part.
Millie Zoë Tarrant
Renee Tan At 15, Renee is oddly elegant for her age; she’s well on her way to becoming the woman she’s going to be. Born in the SAR to a Malaysian mum and Singaporean dad, she’s slower to open up, but when she does her words are considered while also being searching. “I might be interested in law, but I’m not sure. I don’t want to set my mind on something I don’t fully know about.”
Watching is Renee’s second go at the YWC, though last year’s entry was more of a school exercise (nonetheless she finished in the top six). “This year, I wanted to do something that seemed ordinary at first and surprising towards the end. I wanted to work with someone who could improve my story. I wrote specifically for the competition and to learn from someone with more experience, to help me in the future.” Mentor Trisha Hughes was a good fit, providing the feedback Renee wanted. “I was really happy she was willing to give up her time. I really like her,” Renee says.
This year’s youngest finalist, Millie is a bundle of giggly energy, with a mind obviously always on the go. She declares, “I’m so bad at talking in public,” but launches into a detailed breakdown of the origins of her story. Like Hermione, Millie’s parents relocated from England to Hong Kong roughly 25 years ago, and also like her co-finalist she has an older sister. “My mum and dad moved here without knowing each other. They went back to England for the wedding and to have my sister,” she sniffs. “They couldn’t be bothered to go back the second time. I would have preferred they did.” Millie’s surety should serve her well if she studies law at Oxford, which is her goal right now. To most, law and creative writing are worlds apart, so what was it that spurred Millie to enter the contest? “I’m not really a writer. I don’t think of myself as a writer. I did this to give me some confidence; you guys liked it, obviously… I did this for the experience, and I didn’t expect to get this far.” Her story, The Night My Brother Returned , about teen suicide stemming from bullying, was vivid enough to warrant a flurry of www.lifeonlantau.com
August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 11
PERSONA emails between our editor, DC and her parents, though Millie assures everyone she’s fine. “Because of my reading, I kind of have a lot of experience – not experience but knowledge – about cyber bullying and people who have suicidal thoughts,” Millie reasons. “I wanted to raise awareness. So yes, I did have a message.” Mentor John Saeki, the author of The Tiger Hunters of Tai O, agrees, and notes, “Millie’s story jumped out at me. I found it absolutely gripping and it moved me strongly. I believe bullying and socialmedia harassment are deeply disturbing realities of our time and it affects everybody, whether they be children, parents, teachers or family members.” Hermione Barnes-Clay “I think I’ll probably go to an art college or something,” Hermione says of her possible future. “My sister’s probably going to an art university, since our dad’s an artist and a storybook writer… I’m considering a degree in English, or at least an A Level,” she adds with all the weight any 13-year-old should give major life decisions. Hermione might rethink the writing thing considering she’s clearly better at it than even she thought. “When I heard about mentors and photo shoots and interviews, I was a bit surprised,” she says with a laugh. Until the last minute, she didn’t even know who her mentor was. “Is it Rachel?” No, that’s our editor. “I really didn’t expect to get this far.”
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Born and raised in Hong Kong to parents from the UK, Hermione is almost typically arty, reading and drawing since a young age, and making up stories. She admits to a fondness for horror and gothic horror, though currently she’s reading science fiction in the form of Jessica Khoury’s Kalahari. Fifty-eight was born from those tastes, and pivots on an apparition that hangs around some train tracks, to dire consequences. “I always liked dark stories. They interest me,” she explains. “The story was inspired by a childhood story that I can’t remember where from, about this girl who draws children in, and to their deaths.” Mentor and Around DB columnist Peter Sherwood picked Fifty-eight for its fright factor – and its pace. “A wonderful build-up, slowly increasing the interest and tension, and ending suddenly in horror. Pretty simple and not at all easy to achieve, particularly for one so young,” he says. Hermione’s youth only reveals itself when she admits she didn’t intend a message for Fifty-eight: she just wanted to creep readers out. Mission accomplished.
You can read Watching by Renee Tan, the winning story in this year’s Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writers Competition, on page 15.
Back to school
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SPOTLIGHT
Watc h i n g Photos by Tertia van Rensburg & Todd Trapani – unsplash.com
By Around DB and Life on Lantau Young Writers Competition winner Renee Tan, 15, Discovery College
I
watch. I always love to watch the children play outside. Running around free in the tall green grass, flying high in the swings. I scan the crowd for the girl with the shiny pink shoes. She’s my favourite to watch, her smile bright and her soul sparked with joy. Today, the sun glistens brightly in their hair, while their skin absorbs its warmth. Through my stained dusty window, I see them dancing with the wind as their singing spreads my smile from ear to ear. I press my ear against the window, desperately trying to catch the lyrics to the song they’re singing. Their voices are muffled by the walls that isolate me from what seems like a different universe. I hastily fidget with the window handle until it finally creaks open. How I long to feel the sun’s glow, to belt out a chorus and feel free. I take a deep breath and close my eyes. My bleak, solitary house transforms into a haven of nature and tranquillity. Birds flutter around me and a soft breeze blows through my hair. I can feel the dirt beneath my feet, while the
cool grass tickles my legs. This, is the world I dream of being a part of. This is… “What are you doing!” In a split second, this hope is lost. I open my eyes, returning to my own secluded world, the warmth reluctantly leaving my body as a chill runs down my spine. “How could you open the window again? After all the times I’ve told you.” My mum sighs as her eyes drift to the outside. For a moment, I saw the spark that I feel, the longing to push past the walls of this house. Yet, just as quickly as it came, the look vanishes, and her eyes turn dull once more. My mum says I can’t go outside. She says that the people are mean. Dangerous. However much I persist that the children sing and play, laugh and smile, and don’t look mean at all, her answer remains the same. www.lifeonlantau.com
August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 15
SPOTLIGHT
“No, I am protecting you.” Sometimes, the tears can’t help but flow as I wonder why I am different, why I can’t play outside. Sometimes, I laugh and hum along with their cheerful melodies. Sometimes, I am so absorbed by the fantasy that I believe I’m with them, that they’re my friends, that I am happy. The one thing that prevails is the omnipresent yearning for more. More. Absorbed by my thoughts, I barely notice my mum walking back to her room. I am about to head to mine, when I notice the nice girl’s pair of pink shoes gleaming by the swings. All the children have finished playing and are scattering back to their houses. The shoes were left behind. A knot grows tight in my stomach as I consider my options. Despite my mother’s warnings, there is no doubt in my mind of what I should do. I tip toe across the rug, so gently that not a strand of yarn is changed. I clench my fists in fear as I shakily walk to the doorway, yet the wooden boards don’t creak. With relief, I rush past the mirror with such speed that I don’t even see my reflection. Without hesitation, I unlock the door and bolt to the swings. It wasn’t until then that it hit me. I was out, free. It was just as I imagined. No, more. I can see the little bugs crawling in the tree bark, hear the birds chirp, while the smell of flowers overtakes my senses. None of this can be experienced from my window, watching. Yet nothing bad has happened like my mother warned. “Hey, wait up!” I shout to the girl as I excitedly skip over with her shoes in my hand. I tap her on the shoulder with a grin on my face. “Your shoes are really pretty. I live in that house right there and saw you left them.” The girl’s eyes scan her surroundings, frantically searching for… I’m not sure... In confusion, I do the same, looking behind me. In the reflection of my window, I spot the beautiful pink shoes. Floating. But where am I? In panic, I rub my eyes and glance once more. Why can’t I see myself? A million questions race through my head as my grin fades to a frown. Panic swallows my whole body. I drop the shoes as my body collapses in shock. Before the shoes have even hit the ground, the girl whips around and runs away, her mouth open in a silent scream. I hardly notice. My eyes are glued to the window. I suddenly realise the reality my mum has been protecting me from. I am a ghost. 16 LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
www.lifeonlantau.com
In the reflection of my window, I spot the beautiful pink shoes. Floating. But where am I? Why can’t I see myself?
Toy Shop
SEPTEMBER TERM NOW OPEN FOR REGISTRATION
Classes available at
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Conflictresolution skills
empowering young people at school and beyond
“S
ir, it works! Listening and mediation, it works!” Dan, an older pupil in the St David’s College boarding house, was helping me, as the duty member of staff to supervise bedtime for the younger pupils. He went on to tell me the story.
Photo courtesy of St David’s College
For several months, two boys had not been getting along and all sorts of arguments had been breaking out. No one could really get to the bottom of the problem and it was just assumed that it was a bit of a personality issue. Dan had been doing the sixth form conflict-resolution skills training course and he thought he would try out his skills for real.
I would encourage you to read on to find out what happened but first let me explain how we have changed the culture at St David’s College over the last 10 years or so. Giving our pupils lifelong skills is an essential part of education and having peaceful learning and working environments and peaceful homes and communities is something we strive for and need to prepare our young people to achieve for themselves. Conflictresolution skills and familiarisation with restorative processes is a learning process. We have trained many of our staff so that our pupils can experience the value of these skills and processes at first hand.
He told me how he sat the two boys down and explained to them what he was going to do and that it was about helping them find their own solution. He got each of them, in turn, to explain their stories about what had been going on. He kept the storytelling to short turns, so he could repeat back what he thought he was hearing. In this way, both boys would know they had been listened to.
In addition to this, we run conflict-resolution skills days for all our Year 7 pupils and sixth form each year. This enables the young ones as they come through the school to appreciate the skills and the sixth form to be involved in ‘peer mediation’ and be ready to take these skills into life after school.
Dan dug a little deeper around the stories so he could see what was really behind the conflict. He then asked each of them how they were feeling. This was quite a powerful moment, Dan told me. Both were clearly upset and began to be able to empathise with each other. This seemed to Dan to be the turning point in this ‘mediation’ session. Dan then went on to ask the question that he was certain was the key to resolving the conflict and that he was confident would mean the arguments would stop.
The essential skills are active listening, asking open questions, negotiation and following a five-stage process. ‘Active listening’ enables both parties in the dispute to really hear the issues, ‘open questions’ allow the stories to be told by each person, and ‘negotiation’ facilitates the individuals to discover a way forwards that will work for all concerned. The five-stage process has to be seen as a series of stepping stones, try to jump any, and crossing to the other side is put in jeopardy.
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the light. It all seems so simple, but unless someone took the time and had the necessary skills the real issue was not apparent and so the right solution was evasive.
Can you think of a way to resolve this dispute, allowing both kids to get what they want?
Dan reached the point where both boys appreciated each other’s stories and understood how the other was feeling. He could now ask the key question, “What do you need?” The twist in the story of both boys was that it was nothing to do with any of the fairly trivial arguments that had been happening incessantly, but it was about how they slept at night in the shared dormitory. John couldn’t sleep with the curtains closed as he hated the dark and Steven couldn’t sleep with the curtains open because one of the outside lights shone too brightly in his face and kept him awake. What each boy needed was the room to be changed around, so the curtains could be kept open to provide some light, but with Steven’s bed on the other side of the room and away from the brightness of
Restorative processes are very similar in that they give young people the ability to listen to each other, understand mutual feelings and find a way they can move their lives forwards. Restorative justice is to do with a victim and perpetrator, perhaps bully and bullied. In such situations, giving the young people the opportunity to take ownership of the outcome is what we are aiming for. Have a look at the photo above inside the balloon. The two children come in from school in a mood for different reasons, an argument breaks out over the one remaining orange. Can you think of how you can resolve this dispute and allow both children to have exactly what they want? In this case, it can be a win/win, sometimes compromise on both sides is needed.
FIND IT St David’s College is a boarding school in North Wales, specialising in whole-person education. Registration is open for September 2020 and beyond. Limited spaces are available for September 2019. For more information, visit www.stdavidscollege.co.uk.
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August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 19
INSIDER
What you ow kn need to
Managing director of Carey, Suen Will Services Annette M. Houlihan talks probate
M
ost of us know we need to write a will, even if we only hold a bank account, as the authorities need to know where our assets should go in the event of our death. But there’s more to consider than that. Most countries have a system called probate, whereby the courts administer our assets after we’ve died. Here are five things you need to know to start planning for the distribution of your assets after your death. 1 Pick an executor The executor of your estate should be someone who can handle bureaucracy and is not likely to have a meltdown at the thought of dealing with paperwork. He/ she will represent you in the Court of Probate or appoint a probate lawyer to do so. But probate can cost a lot of money, so you need to have all the important documents prepared. For example, the Schedule of Assets and Liabilities – what you own and what you owe. The more information you leave behind, the less it will cost your executor to find and distribute your assets.
Photo courtesy of www.wikimedia.org
You must have a contingent executor in case your first choice fails. For many, their executor is their spouse. But if you both die together, who would you want to administer your estate? If you choose a parent, then you must name a third contingent executor. 2 Consider your beneficiaries In Hong Kong (and many common law countries), residents enjoy testamentary freedom, meaning you can leave your assets to whomever you like. However, in some cases, for instance if you bequeath a charity and leave your family destitute, the courts may override your choice of beneficiary, if the will is contested. Note that certain countries have forced heirship whereby you must leave your assets to your children and spouse. 3 Name a guardian If you have minor children, you can name a guardian in your will but as it can take months to have your will read, you should also prepare a Deed of Guardianship that allows you to make a separate nomination and expedite the process. If your permanent guardian lives overseas then you will also need to appoint a temporary, local guardian to care for your children until your permanent guardian can get to Hong Kong. 20 LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
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Spend time choosing the right executor of your estate
4 Share your passwords You need a separate document to authorise your executor to handle your digital assets and the closure of your social-media accounts. Bitcoin, Facebook, Google, LinkedIn, Amazon, Twitter and Instagram… how do all your accounts get accessed and closed? 5 Write a Letter of Wishes It is not necessary to name assets in your will but, if you do have personal effects – jewellery, musical instruments, artwork – that you would like to leave to certain people, write a Letter of Wishes. This allows your executor to locate these items and distribute them accordingly. If you write them in your will, there could be hold-ups.
FIND IT
•
Carey, Suen Will Services, www.careysuen.com
You can email Annette M. Houlihan at annette@careysuen.com for a free consultation.
CAREY, SUEN WILL SERVICES
tel: +852 9160 7855 email: annette@careysuen.com website: www.careysuen.com
ANNETTE M HOULIHAN, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF CAREY, SUEN WILL SERVICES, SHARES A REAL-LIFE EXAMPLE OF THE DANGERS OF NOT WRITING YOUR WILL If you die without making a will, your assets will be distributed according to the law and not necessarily according to your wishes. There are many things to consider, but with a little preparation the process can be less painful and expensive than you might think – and certainly preferable to the chaos and confusion that can happen if there is not a will in place.
One area that should not be delayed, is what happens to your minor children should both parents pass away prematurely. Clients of mine, an Australian mum and French dad could not decide who should have custody of their children if they both died. Should they go to their grandparents in Australia or in France? Both were very patriotic and so they could not agree, which held up finalising the will even though they were both in agreement as to what should happen to their assets. Tragically, the couple were killed on holiday in a car accident, and the families of both sides got into a quarrel as to whom should care for the children. Both sets of grandparents were young enough to look after the three young children, so both applied to the Hong Kong Family Court. As part of the case proceedings, I was contacted by both sets of grandparents, who wanted to know if their children had left instructions in their wills. They asked if there was anything I could do to help. It was a tough decision for the courts, but even harder on the children. It’s impossible to imagine how the elder children must have felt with deceased parents and squabbling grandparents, and not knowing where they would live, only that they would have to leave their home in Hong Kong.
By finalising their will – and deciding who should have custody of their children in the event of their death – my clients could have saved their families untold heartache and trauma. Email Annette M. Houlihan at annette@careysuen.com for a free consultation Carey, Suen Will Services 8B Wing Yee Commercial Building, 5 Wing Kut Street, Central
tel: +852 9160 7855 email: annette@careysuen.com website: www.careysuen.com
Photos by Duey Tam, Andrew Spires, Martin Lerigo and Jason Pagliari
DISPATCH
Beach life You don’t have to venture far off the beaten track to discover Lantau’s best beaches. Twenty-year resident Alexander Grasic shares his all-time top four
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1 Silvermine Beach
A
perfect crescent of sand nestled below Ling Fa Shan peak and the spectacular Mui Wo basin, Silvermine Beach is busier than most on Lantau, largely because it’s somewhere you can enjoy the sand and sea without too much hassle. This easily accessible beach has newly renovated changing facilities, barbecue pits and toilets. The lifeguard hours in the summer, as with all beaches that are maintained by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), are from 9am to 6pm on weekdays, and from 8am to 7pm on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. If you and your friends are the active sort, have a turn using the beach volleyball court nestled under a pair of trees just metres from the river Silver. Alternately, spend a night at Silvermine Beach Hotel and enjoy some of the myriad outdoor activities on offer – you can rent stand-up paddle boards, peddle boats and kayaks. When it comes to getting something to eat you are spoiled for choice, as all of Mui Wo’s restaurants are within a 10-minute walk from the beach. The China Beach Club is situated close to the northern end of the beach and overlooks Silvermine Bay. Though it is not the cheapest option, the portions and quality of the food make it worthwhile. Wah Kee Seafood at the Mui Wo Cooked Food Market offers up delicious local staples, or head to The Kitchen, just past the ferry pier, which has some of the most refreshing sandwiches and salads on the island.
Silvermine is a great repeat destination for famili
es
It is worth mentioning, however, that the water quality at Silvermine Beach is on average rated as ‘Fair’ by the Environmental Protection Department (EPD), the grade below ‘Good,’ and the beach can get quite crowded on weekends. However, the water is generally calm. Considering that, all the food to sample and how easy it is to get to, Silvermine Beach is a great repeat destination for families.
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August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 23
DISPATCH
2 Pui O Beach Pui O’s environs are hard to beat. The route from the bus stop on South Lantau Road takes you past the quiet Pui O village, and through fields where water buffalo are often found grazing, or simply hanging out. Once you reach the water, you are presented with an untouched beach flanked by a rocky outcrop on the Chi Ma Wan Peninsula to the southeast, and Yi Tung Shan and Sunset Peak to the northwest. At the beach itself, you can spend your day in several ways. Parents can set up shop at Treasure Island’s terraced restaurant and watch the kids gallivant on the beach below. The group also offers beach chair, kayak and board rentals, as well as coolers and beach bags in case you prefer to pick up supplies and lug them across the soft ‘black’ sand.
Pui O’s picturesque mudflats at low tide
Of course, there’s nothing stopping you from going it alone (by bringing your own board); Pui O, like Silvermine, is diligently supervised by the LCSD. One of the most appealing aspects of Pui O is how easy it is to overnight there. In the summer, the air-conditioned cabanas offered by Treasure Island may be the more prudent, albeit more expensive option, if your priority is a good night’s sleep. However, the LCSD campsite on the other side of the beach, is at most 50 metres from the sea (tide dependant), and there you’ll be rocked to sleep by the sound of the waves smashing the shore. Two tuck shops on the route to the beach rent tents, and sell most of the equipment you need to use the campsite’s barbecue pits, except gauze. Either way, it’s truly hard to reconcile the fact that you’re in Hong Kong with what you witness during a sunrise on Pui O.
Beach conservation The amount of litter that arrives courtesy of the sea is notorious in Hong Kong and, for Lantau beaches, there are times of the year when beach cleaners are kept fully occupied removing the detritus that comes ashore with every tide. Well managed in the main, they do suffer from time to time from the litter people leave behind, so do your bit to keep them pristine. To get involved in a local beachclean up, visit www.ecomarinehongkong.org, or email ROBAR (rubbish-off-beaches-androads) at robandros@me.com.
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ets… and catch the sun rising
Camp at Pui O to enjoy glorious suns
3 Upper Cheung Sha Beach ’s resident cattle
One of the two sister beaches divided by an unassuming headland that barely reaches the coast, Upper Cheung Sha is the longest beach on Lantau (3 kilometres), and one of the longest in Hong Kong. This beach is also maintained by the LCSD, and the lifeguard post at the western end has the regular showers, toilets and changing rooms.
One of Upper Cheung Sha
Development plans
While the sand is soft and powdery, there are some rocks dotted around, both in the water and on the beach itself, so be a bit careful where you set up, and where you swim.
Despite a major shipping terminal and international metropolis just a few kilometres away, Lantau’s southern coast is peppered with pretty beaches. But given the prospect of the future Shek Kwu Chau incinerator and the looming East Lantau Metropolis project, you really shouldn’t wait to explore the coast. The latest government plans set forth a litany of projects aimed at attracting, retaining and entertaining large-scale tourism. To express your concern, email landac@devb.gov.hk.
Bring lots of water and snacks if you plan to stay the day, as Upper Cheung Chau has less amenities and restaurants than its lower, busier counterpart, and there is very little shade. This beach is best enjoyed under a portable umbrella, with a cooler full of drinks, sandwiches, chips and dips. The main draw of Upper Cheung Sha is its sheer length. Walking west from the lower beach you have the tree-lined beach to your right and to your left, the sea and various islands to Lantau’s south. In the foreground, lies the islet Cha Kwo Chau, and further behind it the Soko Islands. If you look back to Lower Cheung Sha, you see the same outcrop as you do from Pui O, as well as Shek Kwu Chau. Yes, the future home of the mega-incinerator. Walking here, you may well have the whole place to yourself, unless, of course, you’re lucky enough to come across the resident herd of cows sitting on the sands – a serene addition to an already idyllic backdrop.
Shek Kwu Chau
Upper Cheung Sha Beach
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August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 25
DISPATCH
Water quality
4 Tai Long Wan By far the smallest and most remote beach on this list, Tai Long Wan, which translates as Big Wave Bay, is one of the most secluded and picturesque places in all of Hong Kong. And it’s unique in all ways but in name. There’s a Tai Long Wan in Sai Kung, one on the easternmost coast of Hong Kong Island, and not one but two on Lantau – the other one shoulders Sea Ranch and is only accessible by hike or sampan from Cheung Chau. It’s a spectacular beach, but a bit too out of the way for most. To visit our Tai Long Wan is still quite a trek. After getting off a bus at Sha Tsui at the corner of Shek Pik Reservoir, follow Wang Pui Road (and the sound of crashing waves) through Tai Long Wan village to the beach. If you’re taking it easy, or have small children in tow, it may take up to 30 minutes to reach the beach from the road.
Swimming safety The lifeguard hours in the summer, on beaches that are maintained by the LCSD, are from 9am to 6pm on weekdays, and from 8am to 7pm on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Do not venture beyond the shark nets to swim in the open sea. When swimming in undesignated areas, or areas not supervised by lifeguards, stay close to the shore. Always swim with a buddy, and have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear approved life jackets. Never leave a young child unattended near water and do not trust a child’s life to another child. Teach children to always ask permission to go near water. If someone is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability.
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While you may not get crystal clear seas, the water quality around southern Lantau is at some of the best levels in Hong Kong. The EPD consistently rates the water at many beaches as ‘Good,’ the highest rating they have, meaning the lowest quantities of E. Coli bacteria. For weekly updates on the water quality off beaches throughout Hong Kong, visit www.beachwq.gov.hk/en/map.aspx.
Make a point of visiting the Buddhist temple a few metres from the shore. It is a fairly new temple, built after the one near Shek Pik Prison fell into disuse. Once you reach the beach, chances are you will be entirely alone, on a completely deserted beach. There are no chairs, umbrellas or lifeguards on duty, and definitely no restaurants. Everything you will need for the day, you will have to bring yourself. This may seem like a drawback, but with the hectic lifestyles so many of us lead here, simple seclusion (perhaps enjoyed with a few friends or family) is a real luxury.
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FENG SHUI
FENG SHUI: Outdoor areas By Samantha Wong
I
f you know the basics of feng shui (and you will if you’ve been reading this column for the past couple of issues), you’ll find you can radically up the sheng chi (good energy) levels on your balcony or terrace in the space of an afternoon. Step one: Get out your scrubbing brushes and give it a good clean – accumulated dirt and dust translates into a build-up of bad luck. Step two: Clear any unnecessary clutter – chi travels best when there aren’t any obstacles in the way.
Remember that the five elements – fire, earth, metal, water and wood – also need to be represented on your balcony or terrace. Feng shui says that a water feature, placed in the north, and a barbecue or something red (representing fire), placed in the south, will bring prosperity. Whether it’s in furniture, plant pots or wind chimes, metal belongs in the north-west and west. This will bode well for your future endeavours, since well-placed metal helps create an ambitionboosting creative space.
Next up, particularly on a confined balcony, check the ventilation. It may be that you need to install a couple of fans to get the air and chi flowing freely. You’re at an advantage if your balcony or terrace faces east, since feng shui says that peace and prosperity blow in on an easterly breeze.
A symbol of bounty and health, wood should dominate the south-east and eastern parts of a balcony or terrace. Here, you can make use of wooden furniture, miniature trees or anything green. The earth element, meanwhile, finds its home anywhere in an outdoor space, and is easy to invoke with flowers and plants.
Now, check the lighting – si chi (bad energy) is drawn to spaces that are harshly or dimly lit. In addition to a couple of ceiling lights, deck your space out with standing lamps (that you can move around), candles (preferably scented) and hanging lanterns. Note that an east-facing outdoor space that enjoys sunlight for most of the day is preferable to a west-facer that only gets the sun in the afternoon.
Flourishing plants equate to a successful life, so be sure to choose species that will do well in your outdoor space, and take good care of them. Sweep up any fallen leaves and remove any dead plants to avoid an accumulation of si chi. Evergreens are always a good choice, as are flowering plants of any colour. The scent of fresh flowers is beneficial and will flood your terrace with sheng chi.
Natural light is your friend, so if your outdoor space is overlooked, don’t screen it off with a solid barrier that blocks out the sunlight. You’re much better off hanging a sheer curtain or growing a decorative bamboo ‘wall’ to shield yourself from prying eyes.
Feng shui says that a house protected by thorny plants has no need of a burglar alarm, so fill a few planters with cacti, roses or, my favourite, rosemary.
Photo by Tanny Do - unsplash.com
Open to the elements With all this in place it’s time to take a fresh look at your outdoor furniture – and for what purpose you actually use your space. Are there any items that you seldom use and can do without? An overcrowded space is never welcoming or productive, which is why less is always more in feng shui. While playing with scale and proportion to create a balanced look, you’ll also want to balance the yin and the yang, the feminine and the masculine. You can embrace the yin with soothing colours and soft textures, and then even this out with bold reds and solid furniture representing the yang.
Invoke the earth element with flowers and plants www.lifeonlantau.com
August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 29
WALKABOUT SPOTLIGHT
L L U F IRCLE C
Photos by Duey Tam & Andrew Spires
D
Completing the last three sections of the 70-kilometre Lantau Trail, Claire Severn ends up where she started – in Mui Wo ay four of our Lantau hike – the final stretch. Fifty kilometres down, just 20 left to go. The sun is shining, the cows are out in force, and we are all set to tackle sections 10 to 12 of the Lantau Trail.
Continuing on, we soon reach the end of section 10, where the catchwater crosses the old Tung Chung Road. There is a large picnic area at this point, which provides a handy place to stop and refuel if you can pick your way through the sleeping cows.
Starting today’s hike at the end of section 9 – in the laid-back village of Shui Hau – our first challenge is to figure out which way to go. The local bovines aren’t helping us out much, casually munching their breakfast directly in front of the sign for the trail, but we follow our noses and soon find the path leading uphill, to the left as you head out of the village in the direction of Tong Fuk.
Along the catchwater to Ham Tin
A moderate climb, the path consists of steps most of the way, which raises the heart rate slightly, but we soon reach the catchwater, where the hike becomes a lot easier. The flat ground here means that we can pick up the pace a little to cover some distance.
At this point, the path is pretty much all downhill, the route overlooks the village of Lo Uk and passes an enchanting little waterfall before affording a glimpse of Pui O, which marks the end of the trail’s penultimate section.
Along the way, breaks in the trees offer glimpses of the South China Sea, and we take the opportunity to pause for a while to enjoy the panoramic view across the stunning Cheung Sha coastline.
Arriving in Pui O village, we turn right down the side of Bui O Public School towards the beach then head left along the road, past Pui O campsite and on towards Ham Tin to begin section 12.
30 LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
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Carrying on to section 11, the trail follows the catchwater for another 3 kilometres before bearing right onto a hillside path at distance marker L119. It is actually quite a relief to reach the end of the catchwater – the constant slight camber is tough on the legs.
Mui Wo – where the Lantau Trail begins and ends
The sheer amount of wildlife around Ham Tin is wonderful to witness. Fish, birds, butterflies – it’s easy to see why the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department considers the large water inlet from the sea here to be ecologically important. One of the most impressive sights is still to come, however. In fact, it is just around the corner, where the trail meets Ham Tin Wan and offers a sweeping view back over Pui O’s famous dark sands. There is also a small Tin Hau temple at this point, believed to have been built in the Ming Dynasty.
Waterfall – section 11
On a clear day you see multiple islands, many uninhabited except for the odd turtle. The stomping ground of pirates in days gone by, this stretch of sea is still a centre of skulduggery. In 2012, one of Hong Kong’s largest drug smuggling seizures occurred just 700 metres from this very spot. From Sea Ranch to Mui Wo Heading out of Ham Tin, the trail heads inland up a steep slope, cutting out the Chi Ma Wan Peninsula. If time permits, turn right here instead to check out the infamous Sea Ranch further along the coast. What was designed as a HK$40 million utopian pocket of seclusion, with 200 five-star apartments, now sits as a virtually inaccessible, seemingly deserted anomaly.
The catchwater – section 10 The catchwater – section 11
Cresting the Tai Long Plateau, the view is remarkable and Sea Ranch’s gleaming towers only add to that. The real sense of isolation and privacy is what must have persuaded the party people to buy here back in the late ‘70s. www.lifeonlantau.com
August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 31
WALKABOUT Nostalgia trip over, we make our way back to the trail. Spotting the signs for Mui Wo via Pak Fu Tin campsite, we turn left and start climbing a stepped path. This is where the hike gets a bit harder, but the path levels out soon enough and the trees overhead provide some welcome shade. This respite is brief, however, because the path soon starts to rise again. But my, is the effort worth it! We emerge from shrouded woodland to an open vista, which has to be one of the finest in Hong Kong. The view from the top is incredible, encompassing both Sunset and Lantau peaks along with a seemingly endless stretch of coastline, from Pui O, across Cheung Sha and all the way back to where we started the day – Shui Hau. After breathing it all in, we begin our descent towards our end point of Mui Wo, keeping right at the fork in the road. My favourite thing about this section of the hike is the quiet. Apart from the occasional tweet of birdsong, everything is still and peaceful, which makes for a very relaxing stroll through the woods.
Tin Hau temple – section 12
A short while later, we reach distance post L133, where we follow the concrete road down to the right. The signs then point to a set of steps on our left. Just 3.5 kilometres further and we will be in Mui Wo. The path from here is open to the elements, but the upside of that is more great views of the coast. Before long, Hei Ling Chau Typhoon Shelter comes into view. We’ve nearly made it. As we head into Mui Wo, it’s somewhat sad to think our adventure is over. That crazy idea we’d had all those months ago about walking the entire length of the Lantau Trail has become reality. We’ve done it! And we’ve gathered some great memories along the way. Sure, it had been challenging at times – Lantau Peak and the spiderinfested ‘Tunnel of Doom’ leading to Tai O spring to mind – but what an experience! Lantau is, quite simply, magnificent. If you get the chance to hike the Lantau Trail from start to end, do it. You won’t regret it. We certainly don’t, even if we did lose the odd toenail along the way. Into the woods – section 12
Pui O Wan – section 12
32 LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
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COMMUNITY SNAPS On Thursdays at A Tavola Bar & Grill in Tung Chung, Latin lovers enjoy a free salsa class from Dance with Style at 8.30pm, followed by the opportunity to dance, drink and dine till late. Find more familiar faces @ www.lifeonlantau.com
Photos by Duey Tam & courtesy of dancewithstylehk.com/simply-salsa
The Discovery Bay Brownie packs wrapped up a year’s worth of adventures across Lantau and beyond on June 22. With the DB Brownies growing in numbers and a new DB Guide company and Happy Bees hive launching in September, the Hong Kong Girl Guides Association is recruiting volunteer leaders for an English-language guiding group based in Tung Chung. Find more familiar faces @ www.lifeonlantau.com
Photos courtesy of Bauhinia Division (English-Speaking Girl Guides of HK)
34  LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
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Dance for Joy HK is opening its first studio in Tung Chung, at Shop 10 The Visionary, 1 Ying Hong Street, on August 24. The dance school’s mission is to spread the joy of dance to children, teens and adults. For more information and to enrol, visit www.danceforjoyhk.com. Find more familiar faces @ www.lifeonlantau.com
Photos courtesy of Dance for Joy HK
From the publishers of Around DB and Life on Lantau magazines
Wonderful Websites! Need a website or a website refresh? “Bay Media helped me on a project to create a full website. They have that rare ability to speak in layman’s terms, have oodles of patience for us non-digital folk and have created a fantastic site which has been complimented by peers and clients alike.” Paul Redmayne-Mourad BayMediaStudio
www.baymediastudio.com
LIFE ON LANTAU CLASSIFIEDS Assistant Sales Executive Business development
FORES T
Summer Camps
Requirements:
RUNNING FROM
17th Jun to 16th Aug Do you have a Will?
Ark Eden's nature-based camps
Have you appointed guardians for your children?
Surrounded by nature on a hill side in Mui Wo, Lantau.
focus on nurturing children's love of outdoors.
For children Aged 5 to 11
Contact us today for a free consultation
Multi-Day Multi-Da Packages Available
Registration is now open!
www.phoenix-wills.com info@phoenix-wills.com 3100 0101
www.arkedenonlantau.org Facebook.com/ArkEden info@arkedenonlantau.org Tel: 2988 5355
AKASH MOVING
• • • •
Fluent English (written and spoken), Chinese not needed. Familiar with MS office, ideally also Lotus Notes. Able to work independently - Problem Solver - Self Starter. No prior shipping or container knowledge required, we will teach you. Responsibilities:
• Supporting the Sales Manager in all aspects of sales to ANZ & UK including: • Seeking new business opportunities • Building on our already established customer database, responsible for managing a selection of existing clients • Conducting end to end sales transactions. • Admin in connection with sales transactions. The right candidate should be organized, self-motivated, have good attention to detail, data discipline, strong communication skills, and be an overall team player. Ideally, with a HK work permit but for the right person, we will apply for one.
Local packing, moving, storage & handyman service
Interested applicants should forward their resume to
hr@flex-box.com
• All kinds of transport services • Inbound shipment clearance Having stuff delivered from China? They are not delivering to DB or Lantau? Have it delivered to our office in Kwai Chung & we’ll deliver it to your home
Contact 2421 8088 or visit
info@akash.hk www.akash.hk WATERPROOFING & PEST CONTROL • Damp problems? Waterproof Wall PU Injection 12-month guarantee • Pest Control Services Call Roger at 9156 0360
Yoga Therapy Classes for Senior Citizens
Every Tuesday 11:30am Every Thursday 2:30pm
Located at DB North Plaza
Slow and gentle flow yoga, taught by a qualified yoga instructor. English-speaking and easily accessible from Sunny Bay MTR station. t!
Stay Briiian
likegreenwich@gmail.com
9685 8366
www.greenwich-vinyasa.com.hk
For reminders about
To advertise in
Deadline for
EVENTS
CLASSIFIEDS
Oct/ Nov issue
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2987 0577
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lifeonlantaumagazine
info@baymedia.com.hk
September 15
TUNG CHUNG
LOCAL NUMBERS COMMUNITY SERVICES Tung Chung Man Tung Road Sports Centre Tung Chung Public Library Tung Chung Public Swimming Pool
2109 2421 2109 3011 2109 9107
EDUCATION Christian & Missionary Alliance Church Education Centre Discovery Mind Play Centre & Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School Greenfield International Kindergarten Han Xuan Language Education Centre Salala Kids’ House Soundwaves English Education Centre Sun Island Education Foundation Sunshine House International Preschool Tung Chung Catholic School YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College
3141 7319 2987 8070 2915 0666 2162 5538 2666 5905 2611 9193 2164 7210 2420 1068 2109 3873 2121 0884 2988 8123
ELECTRONIC REPAIRS So Nice Technologies (Onkar Singh)
6206 3497
EMERGENCY – FIRE/POLICE/AMBULANCE – 999 North Lantau Hospital Tung Chung Ambulance Depot Tung Chung Fire Station Tung Chung Police Station
3467 7000 2988 8282 2988 1898 3661 1694
FOOD & RESTAURANTS A Tavola Bar & Grill Curry Lounge Essence Restaurant - Novotel Citygate Handi Indian Restaurant McDonald’s Delivery Melody Thai Moccato Coffee Shop My Thai Olea Restaurant - Novotel Citygate Pizza Hut Delivery Resto Restaurant Velocity Bar and Grill - Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott
2321 5500 2960 1977 3602 8808 2988 8674 2338 2338 2988 8129 3602 8838 2907 6918 3602 8818 2330 0000 2886 3156 3969 1888
HEALTH & WELLBEING Freedas Max Beauty Spa OM Spa - Regal Airport Hotel Quan Spa - Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel Rainbow Voice and Soundhealing Spa by MTM Tung Chung Nail Ninjas
3483 8356 2162 5752 2286 6266 3969 2188 5178 5658 2923 6060 9551 6468
HOME REPAIRS & DESIGN New Look Design Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths Mr. Chan 24-hours Handyman Shun Yu Engineering
9783 5840 2109 2330 9343 3718 2988 1488
HOTELS Novotel Citygate Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel Regal Airport Hotel
3602 8888 3969 1888 2286 8888
KIDS 4 Dimensions+ (Dance, Gym, Drama, Art) Clement Art School Jumping Castles Kidznjoy Little Stars Playgroup Sakura Kids Soundwaves Tung Chung
9446 6013 9021 1502 9662 1747 6273 7347 6479 0390 6674 6194 2164 7210
38 LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
www.lifeonlantau.com
MEDICAL Bayside Dental Essential Health Family Clinic Human Health Medical Centre Maternal & Child Health Centre North Lantau Hospital Quality HealthCare Medical Quality HealthCare Physiotherapy Raffles Medical Raffles Medical Emergency Skyline Physiotherapy
2185 6550 2109 9396 2109 2288 3575 8370 3467 7000 2403 6623 2403 6328 2261 2626 2261 0999 2194 4038
REAL ESTATE HomeSolutions
3483 5003
REMOVALS & RELOCATIONS Akash Removals FTC Relocations ReloSmart SwiftRelo
2421 8088 2814 1658 2561 3030 2363 4008
RESIDENTIAL ESTATE CONTACTS Caribbean Coast Club House Caribbean Coast Management Office Coastal Skyline Club House Coastal Skyline Management Office Seaview Crescent Club House Seaview Crescent Management Office Tung Chung Crescent Club House Tung Chung Crescent Management Office
2109 9277 2109 9288 2179 6678 2179 6621 3473 8700 3473 8833 2403 6770 2109 1222
SPORT & RECREATION Aqua Gym Asia Pacific Soccer Schools Canterano Futbol Club Dance for Joy Edge ’n Pointe Dance Centre ESF Sports HK Dragons Kinder Kicks Soccer KipMovin La Cantera Perun Fitness Rugbytots Tung Chung Rugby Club
2914 0658 2385 9677 5611 2490 9264 8597 6688 2167 2711 1280 2987 4274 2385 9677 6180 3256 2557 8007 6443 6597 5307 6677 6079 0825
USEFUL NUMBERS Alcoholics Anonymous Arrow Accounting Services FTC Apparel Phoenix Wills
9073 6922 6201 9710 2428 2566 3100 0101
VETERINARY & PET SITTING SERVICES Bon’s Mobile Pet Grooming Royal Pets Ltd - Pet Sitting Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung Chung Vet Centre
9099 9959 6314 9887 2988 1534 2328 7282
ART & CULTURE Flanhardt Galerie und Atelier (FGUA)
2882 3390
EDUCATION Buddhist Fat Ho College Kind Hing Trinity International Kindergarten & Nursery Lantau International Kindergarten Lantau International School Lao Shi Lantau Mandarin lessons Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten Mindfulness Matters Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten Mui Wo Language Cafe
2985 5365 2109 9886 2984 0302 2980 3676 5197 4647 3689 6709 9048 5425 2984 0006 5511 6107
FOOD, BEVERAGES & RESTAURANTS Bahçe Turkish Restaurant Bathers/ Beach House Cafe Isara Caffe Paradiso China Bear Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar Kebab Korner Lantau Grocer Lantana Italian Bistro Le Jardin de Sophie Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. Long Island Mucho Gusto Natural Plus Robert’s Market Tai O Solo Café The Gallery The Kitchen The Stoep @ High Tide The Water Buffalo Value Vigilantes Treasure Island Restaurant
2984 0222 2504 4788 2470 1966 2984 0498 2984 9720 3484 3095 6429 3507 2702 0050 5465 5511 2997 9070 2984 8346 2320 2001 6422 5009 2984 2233 9193 2937 9153 7453 2980 2582 5991 6292 2980 2699 2109 3331 6132 9120 5236 7013
HEALTH & BEAUTY Greenstyle Organic and Healthcare Pause by the Banyan - health ∙ wellness Spa Ambiance Spa Puretouch Thai Palin Thai Sa Baai
9802 0553 9708 0187 2984 2488 2984 0088 9062 0148 5228 6552
HOME REPAIRS & DESIGN New Look Design Unitek
9783 5840 9156 0360
HOTELS Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Heritage Hotel
6810 0111 2985 8383
REAL ESTATE HomeSolutions Findley Leung
3483 5003 2984 8334
RETAIL INSIDE Quay House VIBE Book & Music Shop
2890 8606 2882 8710 2984 9371
SPORT & RECREATION Lantau Base Camp Long Coast Seasports Pause by the River - pilates ∙ yoga ∙ dance Treasure Island Group
5463 6060 2980 3222 9708 0187 2546 3543
TRANSPORT New Lantau Bus Company
2984 9848
USEFUL NUMBERS Alcoholics Anonymous Phoenix Wills
9073 6922 6108 8471
VETERINARY SERVICES SPCA Mui Wo
2984 0060
DISCOVERY BAY
SOUTH LANTAU
LOCAL NUMBERS COMMUNITY Club Siena DB Recreation Club DB Fire & Ambulance DB Marina Club DB Management
2987 7382 2987 7381 2987 7502 2987 9591 2238 3601
EDUCATION DBIS Kindergarten DBIS Primary School Discovery College Discovery Mind International Play Centre Discovery Mind Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School, North Plaza Discovery Montessori Academy, North Plaza Discovery Montessori School, North Plaza Epic Adventurers , North Plaza Eye Level Education Learning Centre, North Plaza Mandarin for Munchkins, North Plaza Mathemagic – home tutoring Mathnasium, North Plaza SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House International Preschool Zhi Zhi Chinese
2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8088 2987 8088 2914 2202 2812 9206 2987 1201 2441 0098 9366 0000 2480 3909 9135 4724 2628 3362 2987 8608 2987 8143 9648 2966
FOOD & RESTAURANTS 22˚ North Coyote Mexican Cantina Epic Foods, North Plaza Gilmore’s by the Golden Pig, North Plaza Hemingway’s McSorley’s Ale House The Pier Bar Uncle Russ, North Plaza
2987 2298 2987 2848 2172 6111 2662 9168 2987 8855 2987 8280 2520 2166 2840 1188
HEALTH & BEAUTY Afflatus Hair Workshop, North Plaza Maximum Care Nailed It!
2987 0283 2987 2060 2987 2266
MEDICAL Bayside Dental Practice, North Plaza DB Medical Centre Health and Care Dental Clinic Island Health Quality Health Physiotherapy
2987 0855 2987 5633 2666 6183 2987 7575 2473 6200
PROPERTY LISTINGS & BOATS Headland Homes Okay.com Savills Hong Kong
2987 2088 2102 0888 2987 1919
RETAIL Bookazine P-Solution Wing On Star Mart, North Plaza
2987 1373 2987 1777 2987 9268 2366 6534
SPORT & RECREATION DB Pirates Rugby, Netball, Hockey & Dragonboat Greenwich Yoga School, North Plaza HK Dragons Football Club Harry Wright International Island Dance Kapuhala Train-in-Space, North Plaza Yoga Bay, North Plaza Yoga Up, North Plaza
9255 6133 9685 8366 5322 5556 2575 6279 2987 1571 6101 8434 6704 9851 8197 5591
TRANSPORT Passenger Telephone Hotline
2987 0208
USEFUL NUMBERS Alcoholics Anonymous Auberge Discovery Bay Hotel, North Plaza Island Veterinary Services
9073 6922 2295 8288 2987 9003
www.lifeonlantau.com
August / September 2019
LIFE ON LANTAU 39
NEED 2 KNOW
Celebrating Chang’e
Photo by Drew Tilk - unsplash.com
Mid-Autumn Festival falls on September 13 this year. Here are 7 things you need to know about it
1 2 3 4
Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month each year, Mid-Autumn Festival coincides with the full harvest moon. This year’s festival falls on September 13.
The moon goddess Chang’e bestows beauty and romantic good fortune upon her followers. These days, we honour her by burning incense, performing lion dances and carrying lanterns – the latter allows her to see her worshippers more clearly.
There are lantern parades all over Hong Kong on September 13. Pinterest has lots of examples of simple lantern-making guides to follow for all age groups, or you can buy paper lanterns in every conceivable shape and size throughout the festive period.
While many cultures mark some sort of harvest festival, China has been celebrating this ancient seasonal rite for nearly three millennia, originally paying homage to a mythical dragon that brought rain for the farmers’ crops.
40 LIFE ON LANTAU August / September 2019
www.lifeonlantau.com
5 6 7
Mid-Autumn Festival’s very own delicacy is the mooncake. Made from an intricately decorated pastry case that is filled with either lotus seed or red-bean paste, mooncakes also traditionally contain salted duck-egg yolk. More contemporary versions are flavoured with chocolate, ice cream, durian and even peanut butter. Mid-Autumn Festival coincides with hairy-crab season. September through November, hairy crabs migrate from their freshwater habitat toward the ocean, and they are caught by mainland Chinese fishermen in river deltas. Supplies are limited, so you pay more than you would for a regular freshwater crab. Best accompanied by Chinese rice wine or ginger tea, the hairy crab’s flesh (particularly the female’s) is renowned for its sweetness, while its roe is creamy and buttery. Much like Christmas or Thanksgiving, the MidAutumn celebrations are a time to gather as a family and reflect on the year that has passed. The day after the festival is a public holiday, allowing families to eat together on the evening of the festival itself and rest up the following day.
S alsa Night
Li V E B anD
Great drinks, great food and great company.
Tel: 2321 5500 www.atavola.hk Follow us on Facebook for upcoming events
atavolahk
Shop E&F G/F, Seaview Crescent Plaza Tung Chung, Lantau Island