Life on Lantau December 2015/ January 2016

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DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS

PROPERTY MARKET UPDATE

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ONE AND ALL

FESTIVE DINING, COOKING, GIFTING, PHOTOGRAPHY AND MORE

SOME KIND OF WONDERFUL

CELEBRATING OUR COMMUNITY CULTURE Join your community online

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Publishers in Lantau since 2002




DEC 2015/ JAN 2016 FEATURES 16 DISPATCH Good, bad or ugly. Take a look at Lantau’s uncertain real estate future

26 INSIDER Community culture: South

16

Lantau’s currency of kind acts

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HIT THE TRAILS Exploring mountain glens and a forgotten fort

35 HEALTH & FITNESS Effective

resistance training made simple

REGULARS 14

GIVEAWAYS Fabulous prizes up for grabs!

29 LADA UPDATE News from Lantau Development Alliance

26

38 ASK THE EXPERT Italian cooking tips from Como Lake

39 SUCCESS STORY Koren Thomas of EpicLand talks shop

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LANTAU FACES Community snaps STEPPIN’ OUT Unusual things to do over the holidays

AGENDA 04 HOT OFF THE PRESS Up-to-theminute island news

06 LANTAU FOCUS What’s happening in the community

21 PULL-OUT GUIDE Christmas

countdown: everything you need to know

41 CLASSIFIEDS Great deals,

employment, businesses and more

42 LOCAL NUMBERS Your ultimate guide in DB and Lantau

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DECE MBER

ARY 2015/ JANU

2016

ON THE

COVER

Readers with a feature story idea, please email rachel@baymedia.com.hk If you would like to publicise a local event, email info@baymedia.com.hk For general enquiries, email info@baymedia.com.hk To advertise, email lissa@baymedia.com.hk

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For the latest Life on Lantau updates, find us on

DEVELOPME HOUSINGMARKET UPDATE HAP

E AND ALL AND MOR YS TO ONEING, PHOTOGRAPHY GIFT PY HOLIDA COOKING,

DINING, ERFUL WONDCUL TURE KIND OF MUNITY SOMEATIN G OUR COM

FESTIVE

CELEBR

South Lantau’s neighbourly ethos

NTS

PROPERTY

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in Lantau Publishers

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LANTAU NEWS By Tom Squires

PUBLISHER Corinne Jedwood corinne@baymedia.com.hk MANAGING EDITOR Rachel Ainsley rachel@baymedia.com.hk

BID FOR TUNG CHUNG RIVER NATURE PARK

ADVERTISING & SALES MANAGER Lissa Morris lissa@baymedia.com.hk ART DIRECTION Terry Chow terry@baymedia.com.hk DIGITAL EDITOR Melissa Stevens melissa@baymedia.com.hk OFFICE MANAGER Beatrice De Magistris accountant@baymedia.com.hk CONTRIBUTORS Sam Agars Elizabeth Kerr Martin Lerigo Jamie McGregor Tom Squires Rebecca Tomasis PRINTING Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F Tin Fung Industrial Mansion 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road Aberdeen, 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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Local concern groups, Green Power, Hong Kong Bird Watching Society, Hong Kong Outdoors, Lantau Buffalo Association, Eco-Education & Resources Centre, The Conservancy Association, Designing Hong Kong (DHK) and WWF – Hong Kong, have combined to lobby for the protection of one of the last remaining un-channelled rivers in Hong Kong. They have come out in support of a Development Permission Area Plan (DPA) for the Tung Chung River Valley presented by the Town Planning Board in August. While in favour of the DPA draft, which aims to introduce statutory land-use control in Tung Chung West and help protect its rich ecology, the lobbyists want it extended to cover Tin Sam and Wong Lung Hang Stream. They also want the lower parts of the Tung Chung River and estuary designated as a River Nature Park. According to DHK, there is an increasing amount of ecology being lost along the rivers and at present approximately 13% of the land has been filled with waste and covered with unauthorised structures. “The river park would be on the fringe of Tung Chung and could become a great destination to visit,” says DHK chief executive officer Paul Zimmerman. “We want to get a lot more greenbelt zoning rather than residential,” adds Martin Williams of Hong Kong Outdoors. “We want belts of greenery on either side [of the rivers] for recreation, the environment and to keep the place looking decent.” The concern groups say their two proposals will help achieve a more sustainable plan for Tung Chung West. Watch this space for the outcome of the petition sent out in October to the Town Planning Board, Planning Department, Civil Engineering and Development Department and Drainage Services Department.


HOT OFF THE PRESS

HOPE FOR SOUTH LANTAU INTERNET

DISNEYLAND PRICE HIKE

https://en.wikipedia.org

Last issue, we reported on South Lantau’s poor quality broadband internet connection, and the determination of Islands Broadband Concern Group (IBCG) to get it improved. It seems the group is already making genuine headway, following an informal background briefing with Hong Kong Telecom’s (HKT) Netvigator engineering and marketing teams in October. Robert Clark, who set up the IBCG, says in his Lantau Confidential blog that while a long wait is inevitable, HKT understands it needs to provide an upgraded service and has already started drafting plans to invest in broadband fibre for the Outlying Islands. In the meantime, HKT has agreed to give priority service to customers with on-going broadband issues and has made it clear that it welcomes feedback and is keen to engage in further dialogue with the IBCG. That being said, the IBCG remains realistic about the situation and knows that the process of drafting plans, getting them through a series of approvals and seeing them actually come to fruition will take time. Hang in there South Lantau residents. To find out more, read Robert’s blog www.lantauconfidential.com.

https://en.wikipedia.org

A day out at Hong Kong Disneyland just got more expensive, since the majority of tickets underwent a price rise on November 10. Adult day passes rose 8% from HK$499 to HK$539, while children’s day passes went up 8.5% from HK$355 to HK$385. Silver adult annual passes jumped to HK$1,078 from HK$988 (9%) and children’s from HK$698 to HK$759 (8.75%). On a positive note, adults opting for a gold annual pass will save HK$300 (HK$2,188 down to HK$1,888) and everyone who renews their annual passes will receive a 15% discount until March 31, 2016. Hong Kong residents can also continue to purchase oneand two-day tickets at the previous rate until January 10, 2016. This year’s Christmas celebrations at Disneyland also kicked off in mid-November. Highlights include photo ops with your favourite Disney characters dressed in special festive costumes, classic holiday food from around the globe and, of course, Christmasthemed gifts.

NEW ISLANDS DISTRICT COUNCIL MEMBER Randy Yu Ho Kwan was the popular choice for Lantau in the Islands District Council elections on November 22, winning over 50% of the vote. He garnered 1,895 votes to beat second-placed Lau King Cheung by a massive 1,242 votes. Randy, who takes over from the retiring Rainbow Wong Fuk-kan, is the son-in-law of big-name Hong Kong politician Lau Wong-fat, a member of the Hong Kong Legislative Council. “Because of that he is well-known,” Living Islands Movement’s Martin Lerigo says. “But to be fair to him, he did campaign hard and I wouldn’t want to take anything away from him.” A Tai O resident, 53-year-old Randy is a senior manager at Sino Land and also sits on the Lantau Development Advisory Committee. Martin predicts Randy will stay true to his pre-election promises to act on the state of South Lantau broadband, look at schooling in Mui Wo and support further reviews for the improvement of parking and roads in South Lantau, while also expecting him to back further development on Lantau. Photo courtesy of Islands District Council

A record 1.4 million people voted in the District Council elections throughout Hong Kong, with Sammi Fu Hiu Lam winning Tung Chung North, Holden Chow Ho Ding elected in Tung Chung South and Amy Yung retaining her Discovery Bay seat. DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  5


WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS LANTAU

LANTAU FOCUS

Find more photos of community events @ www.lifeonlantau.com

Photos courtesy of Discovery Mind Kindergarten & Play Centre and Lantau International School

BOX OF HOPE Lantau kids have been doing their bit to help underprivileged children in Hong Kong and across Asia, by providing them with shoeboxes filled with interesting educational gifts. Local schools involved in this year’s Box of Hope initiative included Lantau International School, Discovery Mind Kindergarten & Play Centre, OWLS Kindergarten & Primary, Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten and Bui O Public School. Through November, some 390 boxes were collected in Tung Chung and South Lantau. Visit www.boxofhope.org.

LANTAU 2 PEAKS

Photos courtesy of Action Asia Events

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Lantau 2 Peaks, organised by Action Asia Events, is the fourth Skyrunning race of the 2015 Skyrunner® World Series and the only Skyrunner® World Series event in Asia. On October 4, over 1,000 competitors raced 23 kilometres across the Lantau trails either individually or in teams of two or four. Rémi Bonnet of Switzerland finished first overall. To find out more, visit www.actionasiaevents.com.


LANTAU FOCUS

ASIAN OPEN REGATTA Held over the weekend of October 31, the Asian Open Regatta, now in its 32nd year, is the largest multi-hull regatta in Asia. Organised by Lantau Boat Club (LBC), it attracts competitors from as far as Australia, Singapore and Japan, and is the biggest sail race to grace Lantau waters each year. For race results, visit www.lantauboatclub.com; to read all about the race from LBC sailing chairman, Steve Devlin, go to http://goo.gl/8AvOP6.

Photo courtesy of LBC

HALLOWEEN A HIT

Lantau came to life on October 31, with local kids (and a fair few parents) donning costumes and heading out for some trick or treating. This gathering in Ham Tin took on a rockin’ Sergeant Pepper’s theme.

Photo by Stephan Schwabbe

GO AHEAD FOR SUPER INCINERATOR

Photos courtesy of Martin Lerigo and www.lantauconfidential.com

The final appeal to stop the proposed Shek Kwu Chau super-incinerator from being built was thrown out by five judges in the Court of Final Appeal on November 26. According to Living Islands Movement’s (LIM) Martin Lerigo: “It’s the end of the road. The government can now proceed.” This sad news broke just weeks after an LIM fundraiser saw HK$8,000 raised for on-going conservation projects, such as preserving the Pui O wetlands and opposing plans for the incinerator. Visit www.livingislands.org.hk.

SALOMON LT70 A 70-kilometre trail race for individuals and teams of four along the Lantau Trail, the Salomon LT70, organised by Lantau Base Camp (LBC), took place this year on October 31. Among the 550 competitors, Lantau runners made a big impression with four Mui Wo/ DB ladies, Katia Kucher, Jemima Callaghan, Amy Bramley and Maria Gomez, taking first prize in the women’s relay, and Scott Callaghan from Mui Wo finishing seventh overall.

Photos courtesy of LBC DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  7


Xmas in EpicLand Winter Wonderland at EpicLand! Come and play this festive season in Hong Kong’s largest indoor family entertainment centre. Enjoy Christmas decorations, a meet and greet with Santa and Christmas carols while enjoying a treat at our Epic Café.

今個聖誕, 歡迎您同歷奇王國一起慶祝這個充滿歡樂的節日! 我們特意為您準備了全場的精緻裝飾, 還有聖誕老人, 和現樂隊在這隨時恭候選!快點加入我們, 享受愉快聖誕! (假日照常運作, 無額外收費。)

Merry Christmas! Call: +852 2441 0098 I Email: marketing@epiclandhk.com I Website: www.epiclandhk.com


LANTAU FOCUS

ISLAND-WIDE EVENTS FOR YOU TO ENJOY!

RESIDENT’S CHOICE AWARDS

Find more information and events @ www.lifeonlantau.com

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Decemb

Have your say in the Resident’s Choice Awards by voting online for the best restaurant in Lantau, from December 2 to 4. The two shortlisted restaurants (the ones that were reviewed the most at www.arounddb. com before November 25) have been posted on the Around DB and Life On Lantau Facebook page – so get voting for your favourite to win. For competition details, visit www.arounddb.com.

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MSIG HK50 TRAIL RUN & HIKE SERIES Lantau Trail

The MSIG HK50 Trail Run & Hike Series is set to hit Lantau, with back-to-back events. Athletes are gearing up for the 5-kilometre vertical run on the first day and 16-, 27- and 50-kilometre races on the second. To find out more, visit www.actionasiaevents.com.

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Photo courtesy of Lantau International School

LANTAU INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAIR Tong Fuk campus

Vendors from across Lantau and Hong Kong are expected at the Lantau International School Christmas Fair, running from 11am to 4pm. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the games and activities, and the secondhand clothes and book stalls, as well as food and cakes.

Photo courtesy of Action Asia Events

CHEERLEADING IN SOUTH LANTAU Mui Wo

Lantau girls can now get into cheerleading through the dedicated club set up in November by South Lantau resident, Angie Lindsay. The girls, aged 6 to 12, practise on Saturdays in Mui Wo. To get involved, call 6175 0155.

Photo by Rebecca Tomasis

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  9


LANTAU FOCUS

LANTAU – HONG KONG’S JEWEL Lantau – Hong Kong’s Jewel , by Philip Yip and Clive Noffke, is a mustread for island lovers. Conveniently arranged by habitat type and district, this beautifully illustrated biodiversity study showcases Lantau’s natural beauty in order to help prevent further destruction of what is one of Hong Kong’s last wild places. Clive and Philip have sent their work to various government departments as well as professionals working on local developmental projects with the expressed wish that natural Lantau be preserved for this and future generations. Lantau – Hong Kong’s Jewel is free to view and download at http://goo.gl/DcULuJ.

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Photo by Clive Noffke

CHRISTMAS NIGHT MARKET Regal Airport Hotel, HK International Airport er Decemb 0 18-2

Photo courtesy of YHKCC

YHKCC INTERNATIONAL FUN FAIR YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College, Tung Chung

Running from 11am to 9pm, this year’s YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College (YHKCC) International Fun Fair again combines the traditional school fair with a spectacular International Night. Expect fabulous ethnic food, a bazaar, game booths and a bouncy castle, plus a talent show running from 12am to 1.30pm (HK$40 entry) and again from 7 to 8.30pm (HK$60 entry). Admission to the fair is free; for tickets and enquiries, call Amanda Shek on 2988 2028, or email iff@ymcacc.edu.hk.

YULETIDE CAROLLING Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel, HK International Airport Get into the spirit of the season with Christmas carolling in the hotel lobby from 6 to 6.30 pm, and again from 7 to 7.30pm. Sing along (in Cantonese and English) with the primary school children of Tung Chung Po On Commercial Association School. For more information, visit www.marriott.com.

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DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

Photo courtesy of Regal Airport Hotel

Explore the Regal Airport Hotel’s Christmas Night Market on select nights in December. You can shop for Xmas goods and gifts at a wide range of stalls, and the evening’s entertainment also includes food and wine tastings, live cooking demonstrations and handicraft workshops. The hotel’s restaurants are all offering special festive menus, and from December 24 to 25, Santa Claus is handing out gifts to kids. To find out more, visit www.regalhotel.com.

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www.marriott.com



LANTAU FOCUS

DB XMAS EVENT HIGHLIGHTS XMAS IN EPICLAND

NATIVITY IN THE PLAZA

EpicLand, DB North Plaza

Discovery Bay Plaza

With EpicLand transformed into a Winter Wonderland throughout December, Santa welcomes kids inside, where they can enjoy live Christmas carolling, plus all the usual activities, including trampolines, air trek, slides, mini golf and rock climbing. Yo u c a n a l s o b o o k y o u r E p i c L a n d Christmas party by calling 2441 0098. Visit www.epiclandhk.com.

The annual Nativity in the Plaza, organised by Discovery Bay Church, Discovery Bay International Community Church, Church of the Incarnation and Holy Chapel Catholic Church, runs from 4 to 6pm. Expect Christmas carols and a narration of the nativity. To find out more, email office@dbicc.org.

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www.wikimedia.org

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Photo courtesy of DBIS

DBIS CAROLS ON THE PITCH Discovery Bay International School With thousands expected to attend, the evening starts at 5.15pm with a Christmas bazaar and refreshments. The concert kicks off at 6.15pm. Pack a picnic, a blanket and your best and most enthusiastic singing voice, and join the DB community in one of the feel-good events of the year. To find out more, call 2987 7331.

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www.evoqueportraits.com


Check out our website for enrolment information

Where Inquiry Begins

New! Tung Chung at The Visionary Tel: 3762 2411 Email: kinder@tc.esf.org.hk

Start your child’s learning journey with ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung

opening for the 2016/2017 School Year

Our purpose-built, spacious kindergarten will provide the perfect environment for young learners. As the largest of the ESF Kindergartens, our space is being carefully planned to provide places of beauty that will support learning, stimulate imaginations, nurture children, families and staff, and truly inspire the wonderful memories of childhood.

Our other Kindergartens: Abacus at Clearwater Bay an IB World School

With well-resourced classrooms, great access to current learning technologies and indoor and outdoor play areas, young children will be presented with multiple opportunities to learn, socialise and develop their skills. Through inquiry-based learning and play, we encourage children’s natural curiosity and creativity, develop their personal and social skills, inspire them with a life-long love of learning and the confidence to fulfil their potential. To find out more about ESF International Kindergarten, Tung Chung please give us a call or send an email to kinder@tc.esf.org.hk.

Tel: 2719 5712 Hillside on Stubbs Road an IB World School

Tel: 2540 0066 Tsing Yi

an IB World School

Tel: 2436 3355 Wu Kai Sha

an IB World School

Tel: 2435 5291

www.esfkindergartens.org.hk

The Best of Lantau - Half Page - Tung Chung.indd 1

Indoor heated pools Convenient locations Professional instruction Perfect safety record since est. 1975 Structured and progressive programme

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UPCOMING COURSES Spring Term January - March 2016 Easter Weekly Intensive 21 - 24 March 2016 29 March - 1 April 2016

swimming@harrywright.com.hk www.harrywright.com.hk (+852) 2575 6279 /HarryWrightInternational


GIVEAWAYS CATCH CIRQUE ADRENALINE YOUR PRIZE: AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) is offering two readers, two tickets (valued at HK$895 each) to see Cirque Adrenaline at 1pm on December 27.

Here’s your chance to win great prizes! Life on Lantau competitions are incredibly easy to enter (you’ll even find the answers to our questions right here). You have until December 10 to submit your answers. To enter, email info@baymedia.com.hk, click on the competitions link at www.arounddb.com, or scan the QR Code below. Don’t forget to give us your name and telephone number!

FIND THE ANSWER: Running from December 22, 2015 to January 3, 2016 at AWE, Chek Lap Kok, Cirque Adrenaline delivers an action-packed night of entertainment. Fresh off a sell-out season in Sydney, the show’s gravity-defying circus acts are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping and your heart pounding. For tickets, visit www.hkticketing.com; for more information, visit www.asiaworld-expo.com.

How old are the Faust International performers? www.faustworld.com.hk

WIN TICKETS TO SEE TREASURE ISLAND YOUR PRIZE: Faust International Youth Theatre is offering two readers, four tickets (valued at HK$270 each) to see its production of Treasure Island, at 7.30pm on December 11. FIND THE ANSWER: Faust International’s Treasure Island , running from December 10 to 13 at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts in Wanchai, is performed by young actors aged eight to 18. The show takes you on a dangerous journey of mayhem and mutiny across the high seas. For tickets, visit www.hkticketing.com; for more on Faust International, visit www.faustworld.com.hk.

What does Cirque Adrenaline deliver? Photo courtesy of AsiaWorld-Expo

ATTEND A CHRISTMAS CRAFT WORKSHOP YOUR PRIZE: Draw 2 Art and Language Studio is offering 10 children, aged between six and 11, a one-hour Christmas recycled art and craft lesson. Kids can attend the workshop (valued at HK$250) on December 13, from 2 to 3pm, at Coastal Skyline in Tung Chung. FIND THE ANSWER: Mui Wo resident Agnes Pang offers a range of different arts programmes for adults, and children as young as three. The theme of her Christmas workshops for kids, December 6 to 24, at the Draw 2 Art and Language Studio in Wanchai, is Santa Claus and his reindeer. For more information, call 8205 0502, or visit www.draw-2.com.

What is the theme of Draw 2’s Christmas workshops? www.draw-2.com

Congratulations to last issue’s winners Ilona Magyar-Bako for the Koji Tamaki Premium Symphonic Concert tickets; Jamie Russell for the Island Dance lessons; and Jasmine Alberts for the Butterfly Dreams bedding. 14  LIFE ON LANTAU

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016


Dental Surgery Assistant (DSA) DSA required for Diestel and Partners expat dental clinics based in Central, Discovery Bay and Tung Chung. Requirements: Minimum two years’ experience as a DSA Good command of English Ability to work with initiative and be flexible Cheerful and friendly team player Good communication skills and telephone manner Please email your resume and expected salary to trish@diestelandpartners.com

Queen’s Road, Central Tel: 2522 2099 diestelandpartners.com

D’Aguilar Street, Central Tel: 2526 2383 smithandjaindentists.com

North Plaza, Discovery Bay Tel: 2987 0855 baysidedentalhk.com

Caribbean Square, Tung Chung Tel: 2185 6550 baysidedentaltc.com


DISPATCH

ISLAND

LIVING By Elizabeth Kerr

Photos by Terry Chow, and courtesy of Swire Properties and Sino Land

Lantau’s increasingly complex property market faces an equally complex – and possibly luxurious – future. Whether or not our tranquil isle is headed for the kind of fiery property landscape so common in the rest of the SAR, is a question many residents are asking

I

t may elicit a “Wow!” or two when a flat in Mid-Levels sells for upwards of HK$500 million – nearly double the nominal GDP of Tuvalu – though at the rate prices have skyrocketed no one is truly surprised. But when the so-called luxury market seeps from its traditional hotspots at The Peak, Repulse Bay and Mid-Levels, it raises eyebrows. When a 3,800 square-foot villa at Sino Land’s forthcoming Botanica Bay, in Cheung Sha, sold for HK$109 million in April, and became the Outlying Islands’ first nine-digit property, followed by a 5,500 square-foot unit in the same project selling for HK$209 million, eyebrows got a workout.

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Not far from Botanica Bay is Swire Properties’ WHITESANDS on South Lantau Road, which launched for sale in late September. Swire chose the site specifically for the beautiful nearby beach, and tapped UK architects Paul Davis + Partners to design the 28 detached houses. Prices start at approximately HK$50 million.

Room for a little luxury A great deal of the motivation behind those super-sales is rooted in the location of the developments. The Peak’s claim


DISPATCH

Mass-market development is centred on Tung Chung, where flats start at around HK$9,000 per saleable square foot

to the most expensive property in the world notwithstanding, Lantau’s picturesque and low-density south-side now trumps its counterparts at Stanley and Repulse Bay for relaxed lifestyle living, a factor that is becoming increasingly crucial to elite property buyers and investors. “South Lantau, in our opinion, is the next Sai Kung for those that think Sai Kung is starting to become overdeveloped,” says Jones Lang LaSalle’s (JLL), Hong Kong head of research, Denis Ma. “There is a major difference, however – namely that accessibility

is more restricted on South Lantau. Driving on roads in the area requires permits. The type of real estate being built on South Lantau, mainly detached houses, positions it more as a new up-and-coming luxury area.” Thomas Lam, senior director, head of valuation and consultancy for Knight Frank in Hong Kong, certainly sees Botanica Bay as a special case. “Sino and Swire’s super high-end developments are not common,” he notes. “The long-term plan for Lantau is for the middle-class, in a mix of public and private housing.” DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  17


DISPATCH

Gentrification of sleepy village houses in Pui O

As Thomas sees it, the focus right now is in and around Sunny Bay, the airport district and the planned CBD3 at Tung Chung. “Based on zoning, the rest of Lantau is not residential; it’s commercial, logistics, retail and hotels,” notes Thomas. “And even around Tung Chung, land is very limited, so if they have to expand it will be very difficult.” Also on tap is an East Lantau Metropolis with potential MTR or bridge connections to western Hong Kong.

Lantau remains a better bargain As it stands, Lantau remains a better bargain than the rest of Hong Kong. According to data from JLL, Hong Kong’s massmarket real estate averaged HK$13,000 per saleable square foot in the third quarter of 2015, versus just HK$9,000 on the low end in Tung Chung, peaking at the same HK$13,000 for prime properties, like the area’s few semi-detached houses. In the luxury sector, Hong Kong averages HK$33,000, while South Lantau (on the strength of the spike stemming from Botanica Bay) prices range from HK$23,000 to HK$37,000 per saleable square foot. Lantau isn’t the only target for upmarket 18  LIFE ON LANTAU

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

development, as the government looks towards the west side of Hong Kong Island and the overlooked north-western areas of the New Territories. “We are also starting to see more luxury developments appearing in areas around Yuen Long,” explains Denis, conceding, “The pricing in Yuen Long, however, has not been as strong as in Lantau.” Prices across Hong Kong are predicted to hold steady for the rest of this year, and fears of an interest rate hike continue to loom. But the most minor of blips can change the numbers.

Million-resident status a way away Also making waves is talk of the ring road that would circle the island, connecting all its far-flung corners. The idea has been floated (and shot down) in the past, and has reared its head again as government and developers allegedly discuss – behind closed doors – exploiting the island as a key component of the Pearl River Delta economy. In October, the South China Morning Post’s Tom Yam itemised some chilling details, among them moving the island’s jails and converting the land into high-end residential plots, and adding


DISPATCH

Traditional village houses in Mui Wo come in at around HK$13,000 per saleable square foot

Botanica Bay in Cheung Sha brought Lantau its first nine-digit property

tourism-based commercial developments that would link Cheung Sha, Pui O and Tong Fuk. A MTR link could be in the offing, as could additional housing for 1 million new residents. The plan was drafted by the Lantau Development Advisory Committee, created last year. “Its 30 members comprise 10 senior government officials, plus 20 individuals from the private sector and academia. Among the 20, 11 have declared business interests in Lantau or family with landholdings in Lantau, and two are pro-government legislators,” wrote Tom.

Prices at WHITESANDS on South Lantau Road start at approximately HK$50 million

country park – very few pieces of land can be transferred to private developers.” While he admits the next step is indeed discussion of developing the parks, asked point blank if that’s going to happen, Thomas lets loose a nervous laugh at the PR nightmare the government would have on its hands. “No. I don’t think so – maybe the boundaries, but not the main part of the parks.”

Knight Frank’s Thomas isn’t fearful for Lantau at the moment, and estimates any significant movement would be well down the road. “If it happens that’s looking beyond 2020, or even 2030. Before that [there] has to be the bridge, which is delayed to 2018 now, and the third runway. Also, the airport’s land lease expires in 2047. There are many uncertainties on Lantau right now,” he says.

Good, bad or ugly, Lantau’s real estate future is clearly in flux and, as a result, so is its position as a weekend respite from hyper-urbanism. But the island’s financial and property potential is too rich to resist, as is evidenced by the array of infrastructure projects already under way. Whether Lantau is headed for million-resident status and commercial vitality remains to be seen, and regardless of how it appears, environment impact – a key to the tourism plans – must be assessed. For now, Lantau’s luxury market will remain limited, and Tung Chung will remain the centre for mass-market development.

Additionally, potential luxury developments, in the immediate term, won’t rival what’s found on Hong Kong Island or Kowloon. “To build more, the government would have to change the zoning and all the master planning [of Lantau],” Thomas explains. “But I don’t see how they could do it. Many parts of Lantau are designated

“There are still other areas identified by the government that will likely be developed first, namely the North East New Territories New Development Areas and Hung Shui Kiu New Town,” finishes JLL’s Denis. “The planning for these new areas is more advanced than Lantau.” DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  19



PULL-OUT GUIDE

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION!

www.wikimedia.org

YOUR GUIDE TO FESTIVE XMAS DINING, COOKING, GIFTING, PHOTOGRAPHY AND MORE

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  21


PULL-OUT GUIDE

DISCOVERY BAY RECREATION CLUB, DB

FARMER’S KITCHEN, HONG KONG

SPICEBOX ORGANICS, MID-LEVELS & SAI YING PUN

2568 2728, www.spiceboxorganics.com SpiceBox Organics, a socially conscious company, is Hong Kong’s only USDA-certified organic store. Some 95% of its 800 products are USDA-certified, and free of chemicals, pesticides and synthetic preservatives.

th afric

-

ho

RYZE ULTIMATE TRAMPOLINE PARK, QUARRY BAY

22  LIFE ON LANTAU

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

www.thesouthafricanshop.com The leading online South African shop in Hong Kong caters to those who miss the taste of home – Biltong, Boerewors, Mrs Balls and more! Orders placed before 10am are delivered the next day direct to your door, throughout Lantau. Tell the owners what you like and they’ll order it in for you.

DINING

COOKING

3167 7022, info@completedeelite.com, www.completedeelite.com Long-term DB resident Agnes Chin runs her delightful cake store with daughter Jacinta. There’s also a cake-decorating learning centre, and the duo provide decorating and party supplies, and customised cake orders.

ng kong

THE SOUTH AFRICAN SHOP, HONG KONG

2337 8191, jump@ryze.info, www.ryzehongkong.com Spread over 7,000 square feet of indoor space, Ryze offers up a custom mix of trampolines and aerial sports attractions, including foam pits, slack lines, and ‘hanging bags’. Fun for all ages, it also provides fitness classes and specialises in birthday parties, sleepovers and corporate events.

COMPLETE DEELITE, CENTRAL

shop an

The sou

2441 0098, info@discoverylandhk.com, www.epiclandhk.com Transformed into a Winter Wonderland this Christmas, EpicLand – the city’s largest indoor playground – covers a full 14,000 square feet. Activities on offer include giant slides, an air-trek obstacle course, climbing walls, laser tag, trampolining, mini golf, a ballistics area and a toddlers-only soft play zone.

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EPICLAND, DB

9301 7445, www.farmerskitchen.com.hk Farmer’s Kitchen provides 100% grass-fed, restaurant-quality beef, lamb and other fine foods. Its Australian meats are flown in chilled (not frozen) and vacuum packed to guarantee long-lasting quality. Farmer’s Kitchen delivers to Tung Chung and Discovery Bay, 5 days a week – order online Monday to Friday, before noon, for next day delivery.

COOKING

ACTIVITIES

2987 7382, dbrc-enquiries@dbrc.hk, www.dbrc.hk The new and upgraded Bowling Alley at Club Siena features an improved (more stable) pin control system and bigger LCD monitors for score and name displays, plus safety sensors on the bowling ball return machines. Kids Bowling Nights are on offer December 4, and again in the new year.

CAFÉ ISARA, MUI WO

2470 1966 Offering a relaxed atmosphere with Asian, Western and fusion eats, Café Isara has a professional-grade billiards table and televises live sports.


DINING

PULL-OUT GUIDE

COMO LAKE, MUI WO

2984 0009/ 9381 7783 Como Lake serves up an array of fresh, no-nonsense Italian specialities, including a highly rated Tiramisu – all prepared by Chef Giampiero.

2504 4788, www.thebeachhousehk.com With a local- and organic-based menu, The Beach House aims to be South Lantau’s go-to beachside dining destination. Open Wednesday to Sunday and Public Holidays, 8am to 9.30pm. The Beach House is closed December 21 to 26, but it’s hosting a New Year’s Eve party on December 31, HK$980 per head.

ABSOLUTE LASER SKIN CARE, CENTRAL

MANSAROVER INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT, TUNG CHUNG

9778 8582, www.absolutelaserskincare.com Absolute Laser Skin Care owner, DB resident Tina Kalmar and her staff work with individual clients to determine the most appropriate combination of laser treatment and skincare options. Custom formulas help to repair damaged/ aging skin. Booking is required at least three days in advance.

2109 1927, www.mansarover.hk Mansarover International Restaurant offers a convenient pick-up service from Tung Chung MTR station, plus home delivery anywhere in Lantau. Indian curry and tandoori are a specialty, with kebabs, pizzas, soup and noodles also available.

GIFTING

DINING

THE BEACH HOUSE, LOWER CHEUNG SHA BEACH

ALOHA OUTDOOR LIVING, AP LEI CHAU

2552 0036, aloha806@gmail.com, www.aloha-outdoor.com Specialising in outdoor-indoor, inside-out living since 2002, Aloha stocks quality, imported, high-end products, and prides itself on a great after-sales service. Expect mega Christmas sales!

SOLERA SPANISH RESTAURANT AND BAR, DB

2555 0772 With stunning views over DB, Solera Spanish Restaurant and Bar is an authentic Spanish dining getaway. The menu boasts a broad selection of tapas to suit all tastes, at affordable prices. Currently rated as one of Lantau’s best restaurants, there’s live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.

BODY AWAKENING, MUI WO

8192 7636, info@bodyawakening.net, www.bodyawakening.net Zachary and Jessica Williams of Body Awakening make high-quality food-based supplements and cleansing and detox kits. The Mui Wo based couple also offer nutrition consultations and programmes.

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DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  23


PULL-OUT GUIDE

FIT & FABULOUS CHRISTMAS POP UP, CENTRAL

AI LAU PHOTOGRAPHY, DB

www.facebook.com/amaribody Amari Body ‘waist trainers’ together with Absolute Laser Skin Care, Mimo Brazil Fitwear, Pure Elegance Jewellery and My Health Coach Lulu (all headed up by entrepreneurial DB women) are hosting a Fit and Fabulous Christmas Pop Up from 11am to 5pm, on December 5.

GIFTING

PHOTOGRAPHY

6755 5119, info@ailau.com, www.ailau.com Ai Lau captures natural, organic images that reflect our simple everyday experiences. A one-hour photo session (in the studio or outside), plus one edited, high-resolution photo, costs just HK$300.

TOYS “R” US, HONG KONG

www.toysrus.com.hk Santa Claus is coming to town! Hong Kong’s largest toy store chain, Toys “R” Us has revealed its Christmas Top 15 toy recommendations. By showcasing the ultimate toys for kids of all ages, Toys “R” Us aims to make festive shopping a breeze. These 15 irresistible toys are sure to make Christmas magical! Check out www.toysrus.com.hk.

ZAHA ET CETERA, DB

9191 3406, rahila@zahaetcetera.com, www.zahaetcetera.com Zaha et Cetera specialises in custom-made, coloured stones and diamond jewellery for individual needs and budgets. In a pre-Christmas promotion for DB residents, Zaha is offering 12% off all diamond jewellery. Go to http://zahaetcetera.com/collection/diamondjewelery-1, and use promo code BPXEGO495KBX.

24  LIFE ON LANTAU

OCTOBER/ NOVEMBER 2015

CHRIS COELHO PHOTOGRAPHY, TUNG CHUNG AND DB

9258 0971, chriscoelhophotography@gmail.com,www.chriscoelhophotography.com Photographing expecting mothers, newborns, children and “sweet families”, Chris treasures the opportunity to capture “moments of happiness – unforgettable instants that can be saved for a lifetime”.

WWW.EVOQUEPORTRAITS.COM, DB

www.evoqueportraits.com Long-term DB resident, Baljit Gidwani specialises in family portraits, plus events, interiors and modelling shoots. Baljit also offers photography classes – maximum four students per class – tailor-made for mums, beginners and enthusiasts.



INSIDER

A TIME FOR GIVING By Rebecca Tomasis

Photos by Terry Chow and courtesy of www.wikimedia.org and Discovery Mind Kindergarten & Play Centre

There exists, or so it seems sometimes, in South Lantau, a currency between neighbours that cannot be counted nor stored in any bank. It is a currency of kind acts, of neighbourly acts, that makes our community so unique and so great. Not perfect perhaps, but a place where people do what they can to help each other in any way they can

26  LIFE ON LANTAU

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INSIDER

Kids at Lantau schools, including Discovery Mind Kindergarten & Play Centre, are involved in the Box of Hope initiative in order to give back at Xmas

S

Rebecca Tomasis at home in South Lantau with friends and family

outh Lantau is a place, a community, where neighbours help neighbours on a daily basis. Most of the time, it is through small favours, like picking up a few extra but much-needed screws on a shopping trip to town, or sharing a removal truck to move furniture between villages. But it is these little things, which might not register as earth-shattering acts of kindness, that collectively add up to create something really very special.

sharing a sighting of a stray dog, we know that someone in the community will step in to give it a home.

On the island, there’s also a great system of paying back someone for their kindness or help. Sometimes payment for the favour can take the form of passing it on. I may not be able to immediately pay my neighbour back each time she drops my daughter off at school, but I can pay it forward by offering a fellow bargain-hunter space in my truck for her furniture that needs to get to the same village. The box of muffins that arrived at our gate the next morning, was a lovely reminder of the neighbourly community my family now finds itself in.

Sometimes acts of kindness are easy – a comment, a smile, a remembered thank you. Sometimes they are more deliberate – offering a lift, making muffins to say thank you. Sometimes they require that little bit more – stopping to help change a tyre, finding space in your home for a new dog.

Neighbourly community After 20 years of living in Hong Kong my husband and I have not really experienced anything like this. Growing up in the villages of the New Territories, in the 1990s, similar communities existed and no doubt still do. But for years we lived in high rises, often with six apartments to a floor, and we didn’t even know all of our neighbours by sight, let alone by name. But here in South Lantau, residents make an effort to get to know one another. We reach out to one another, on a personal level, and through our kids – and our animals. Inter-village pleas for residents to watch out for missing pets are not uncommon. By

We also share the responsibility of looking out for the safety and welfare of our bovine neighbours. New calves are watched over by many different pairs of eyes to ensure they are thriving; missing cows and buffalo are collectively sought, and we report any that are injured.

When Tong Fuk resident Tracey Cuthbertson lost a wheel from her car as she journeyed along the South Lantau Road recently, she was immensely grateful to everyone who stopped to help. To the people who stayed with her and helped her, as she jacked up her car in the heavy rain, and to those who stuck around until someone arrived to replace the wheel. Tai Long Wan resident Nicola Reis says she offered Tracey her help simply because she believes it’s what you do when you see someone in need – and that the more people who believe that, the better life becomes.

A caring culture You don’t have to look far to discover that South Lantau’s is a caring culture. Take the recent success of car sharing through the Mui Wo to Tai O Taxi & Car Service Facebook group, as just one example. With Lantau’s blue taxis elusive even during off-peak times, and its buses increasingly packed with day trippers and tourists, this DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  27


INSIDER matter. And in the day to day, they matter the most. These are the very things we sometimes don’t do because we are in a rush to be somewhere, or to do something. Very few of us make a conscious decision not to be kind. But we forget to make the conscious decision to be kind, when sometimes all we need to do is stop the car, and hold an umbrella over someone for a few minutes.

alternative form of transport fulfils a real need. Through his new Facebook page, Mui Wo resident Ali Bullock is successfully connecting residents with spare seats available in their cars, with those who need them. Lower Cheung Sha resident Frankie McYuen regularly offers neighbourly lifts in and out of South Lantau, and the new Facebook page is important to him. “I like solutions to problems,” he says, “and it makes me feel good that my mileage is extended to others.”

South Lantau residents are also quick to offer a helping hand on a much larger scale, getting together to support the numerous events put on annually by local charitable organisations. Our kids make their ‘boxes of hope’ in the lead-up to Christmas, we dress up to take part in the International Beer Dash in April, and attendance is high at charity-driven events, like Imagine Peace in September and May’s Mother Earth Groove. Causes are close to our heart. At the moment, you’d be hard pushed to find a South Lantau resident not actively involved in saving our buffalo and our environment.

Little acts of kindness While the big gestures matter, little things, like passing on an outgrown car seat, or stroller to someone who can use it, also

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Life in South Lantau is a daily reminder that communities matter – neighbours, and people, matter. And that it is the little things we do that make us human, and make us kind. Living here we can’t help but feel that spirit rubbing off on us. It’s something in the water my husband says, and perhaps he’s on to something there. Just last night our tap water was running brown, and we read on the Mui Wo to Tai O Facebook page that this was a common problem in our area. Villagers now, we took this in our stride, but even before I could call the Water Supplies Department, a kindly neighbour was on the phone offering us clear, clean water from her own home.

Lantau residents reach out to one another

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That is why our community is so unique. Because the little acts of kindness – the favours, the lifts, the muffins – are an integral part of our day-to-day lives. They are just what we do. And when someone does something to help you out, it makes you determined and inspired to be kind back.


LADA UPDATE

Ayesha Oriental Carpets Carpet Washing, Repairs and Sales

WHY LANTAU NEEDS IMPROVED TRANSPORTATION

Hand made Pakistani, Persian, Afghani carpets for sale. View our carpets and rugs in the comfort of your own home.

We also provide:

Carpet washing Repair services for fringes and bindings Carpet restoration services

Contributed by Lantau Development Alliance

We have an expert team providing professional services and the best prices in town

Contact Mr Sultan Mehmood 2623 0499 or 6341 0346

T

www.lantau-da.com.hk

he barge crash in October that saw the Kap Shui Mun Bridge closed for two hours has led to questions about how easily Lantau can be cut off from the rest of Hong Kong. The incident caused chaos for commuters, with no road or MTR access to the airport and many having to come through Discovery Bay to get to the airport. The fact that the Lantau Link is the only land route accessing Lantau really hit home. Here at AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE), we were thankful that one of our large-scale events, attracting over 30,000 visitors, had concluded a few days earlier. If the incident had happened during the show, it would have caused great inconvenience to the participants and exhibitors, and could detrimentally have affected our industry.

CHRISTMAS CAMPS : DB- NORTH PLAZA. Week1: 14th -18th Dec Week2: 21st – 24th Dec Ages U4 and U5 9-10 am Ages U6+ 9-12 in DB, TC – YMCA Christian College . Week1: 21st – 24th Dec Week2: 28th – 31st Dec Ages U4 and U5 10-11 am Ages U6+ 10am to 1pm

It’s clear that Lantau needs an improved transport network to connect it with the rest of the world. To tie in with the Hong KongZhuhai-Macau Bridge, the government plans to have the Tuen Mun – Chek Lap Kok Link in place by 2018, and is looking into creating Route 11, a new road connecting northern Lantau and Yuen Long.

TERM 2– STARTS 4TH JAN2015

Little Dragons U4+ Morning Classes in DB & TC 9m

While we are waiting for these additional roads to open, precautionary measures need to be put in place to limit the likelihood of Lantau Link closure. The efficiency of (contingency) ferry services for residents and tourists moving to and from the airport also needs to be improved. In the near future, Lantau will be transformed into a metropolis comprising tourism, commerce, retail, hotels, a MICE EXPOtainment industry and green tourism. The authorities need to formulate a set of well-rounded, specific and effective transport strategies to keep up with the island’s development.

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The Lantau Development Alliance (LaDA) is a group of local organisations and enterprises on Lantau that have come together to promote the social and economic development of the island. Visit www.lantau-da.com.hk. DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  29


HIT THE TRAILS

THROUGH MOUNTAIN GLENS TO TUNG CHUNG FORT By Martin Lerigo

Photos by Martin Lerigo

Drawing you up the lower slopes of Sunset Peak and then down through remote Wong Lung Hang Valley, this walk culminates at Tung Chung Fort, a relic of yesteryear, nestling in the shadow of a modern-day tower block

T

he cooler weather hails the high point of Lantau’s hiking season, and there’s no better time to tackle this glorious walk. Wong Lung Hang Valley, whilst close to Tung Chung, is little walked, so bring along your mobile phone. And pack your swimming kit, as it may still be warm enough for a dip in the rock pools near journey’s end. Your starting point is Nam Shan picnic site, two miles outside of Mui Wo. It’s accessed from the South Lantau Road and marked by a big, wooden arch announcing the start of the Lantau Trail. 30  LIFE ON LANTAU

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

There is a bus stop close by and all buses out of Mui Wo and Tung Chung stop here. Just ask the driver if you’re not sure of the alighting point. At Nam Shan, you’ll see waymarkers pointing you towards Sunset Peak. Follow these along a path that the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has planted with indigenous trees. This is one of the AFCD’s showcase projects, and it’s well worth taking the time to read the display information and learn something about the enormous variety of flora lining your way.


HIT THE TRAILS

Pak Kung Au mountain pass From here, follow the yellow waymarkers of the Lantau Trail signing the way to Pak Kung Au mountain pass. The trail starts to ascend, shrouded by thick jungle, as starbursts of sunlight twinkle through the canopy above. Listen out for the sound of bells, which will put you in mind of the Mediterranean. You might be lucky enough to see a herd of goats (they happen to live here), crossing your path in search of tasty fresh grass on the slopes above. After 30 minutes or so, you break through the jungle canopy and hit the open slopes. On a good day the views down to Pui O and along the South Lantau coast are stunning. Ahead is the summit of Sunset Peak – at 869 metres it’s the third highest in Hong Kong, just behind its cousin, Lantau Peak, which you can see across your left flank in the distance.

The fort’s cannons point directly at Leviathan Yat Tung Estate

Keep ascending as the path meanders, crossing over mountain streams. Cascading down from the upper slopes, these are the streams that feed Shek Pik Reservoir via the large catchment near the bottom of the mountain. The very water you cross on this hike may well be coming out of your tap in the months ahead. Soon you come to a gulley between Sunset Peak and Lin Fa Shan, another peak towering proudly to your east. Keep following the signs for Sunset Peak and, within 10 minutes, you’ll see a small, wooden pavilion with a sign showing Wong Lung Hang Road to the south. Take this turn and enter the enchanting valley, which tumbles down towards the burgeoning conurbation of Tung Chung.

Wong Lung Hang Valley

Rock pools in Wong Lung Hang Valley

Wong Lung Hang Valley sees few visitors. I’ve never passed another person walking this path, and that alone makes it a glorious discovery. The path descends steeply at first, entering groves of giant bamboo and acacia, then on through many twists and turns, crossing tumbling waterfalls that descend to the valley floor below. You’ll almost certainly hear the shyest of all Hong Kong creatures, the barking deer that hide deep in the jungle undergrowth. Stand still and quiet for five minutes and you have a good chance of seeing one, trotting down to the rock pools for some fresh mountain water. Keep descending on the well-designated path. About halfway down, you are rewarded by a breath-taking view across the valley, towards Lin Fa Shan. Only on a clear day can you truly appreciate the scale of the valley, since the clear air removes the particles that affect the depth of field in our vision. Here the descent becomes steeper and eventually brings you to concrete steps, connecting with the Wong Lung Hang Road. Turn left and walk along this road towards Tung Chung. There is

Little-known Tung Chung Fort dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  31


HIT THE TRAILS

no traffic, as this is a closed Water Supplies Department access road for a sealed reservoir higher up the valley. After about 10 minutes, keep an eye open to your right and listen for the rush of running water. This spot marks the start of the mountain stream that runs off from the valley and eventually makes its way to the sea, two miles away. Local villagers, and people living in the Leviathan Yat Tung Estate nearby, like to come here, and collect water from the stream for drinking and washing. Beyond a layby, on the right, is a small path that cuts its way through to a large rock pool. It’s an amazing place to have a swim near your journey’s end. Enjoy the fresh waters that shimmer aquamarine and azure under the dappled sunlight.

Through a path between local houses, you can see the entrance to Tung Chung Fort, a seldom visited and rather lonely relic of Hong Kong’s past. The fort dates from the 12th century Southern Song Dynasty. It has gone through many incarnations since then, the current structure dating back to 1843, when the fort was resurrected as a defence against pirates. Now the home of the Tung Chung Rural Committee, this unique piece of local history seems all but forgotten, tucked away out of sight and hidden from all but the most inquisitive. Standing inside Tung Chung Fort’s central compound, the six remaining cast-iron cannons point directly at Leviathan Yat Tung Estate, which towers in the distance, testament to the amazing change development has brought to Lantau.

Tung Chung Fort After this refreshing stop, re-join the Wong Lung Hang Road and turn right towards Tung Chung. After five minutes or so, you reach the main Tung Chung Road, adjacent to Leviathan Yat Tung Estate. Turn left and walk for five minutes, looking out for Tung Chung Fort, which lies just ahead on your left-hand side. A signpost for the fort is nestled in amongst other signs for local restaurants.

This information is provided for reference only. Hiking trails vary in levels of difficulty. It is essential to bring suitable equipment, food and water, and ensure you are in adequate physical condition to undertake any hike.

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chabadlantau.com

5th annual LANTAU

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glow in the dark

Wednesday December 9, 4:30-6:30pm

free carnival gift for all kids! giant menorah lighting african drumming show Proudly sponsored by:

BAY MEDIA (publishing Around DB and Life On Lantau magazines) IS HIRING! We are looking for a DIGITAL COORDINATOR to join our dynamic, DB-based team. Requirements: • You live in DB or Lantau and you love it • You are a native English speaker, with superb computer and writing skills • You have an excellent understanding of all social and digital media • You are a team player, with great interpersonal skills • An independent thinker, you can take the initiative and make decisions • You are a problem solver, and very detail oriented • Enthusiastic and outgoing, you like to network Responsibilities: • In charge of digital media (website, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram) for Bay Media • Writing articles for the magazines (Around DB and Life On Lantau) • Assisting the editorial team in print and online This is a full time job: Monday to Friday 9/ 9.30am to 6/ 6.30pm. Please send your full resume to the publisher, Corinne Jedwood, corinne@baymedia.com.hk.


HEALTH & FITNESS

SET THE TEMPO By Jamie McGregor

The benefits of resistance training are well-known but if you are going to do it, then you might as well do it right. Whether you are training for strength, power, fat loss, hypertrophy or endurance, be sure to experiment with different tempos that are relevant to your training goals

R Photos courtesy of www.wikimedia.org

esistance training is one of the most overlooked workouts in the gym; it also happens to be one of the techniques that enhances our fitness levels the most. You can do these moves using calisthenics (bodyweight training), resistance machines and/ or free weights. It’s a fun and effective form of exercise but there are a couple of things you need to bear in mind that will help you get the most out of your workout. Over time, it can become all too easy to do an exercise and bang out the work as quickly as possible, especially if your muscles are screaming. So don’t get complacent or stuck in a routine. You need to employ a strict tempo system to match up with your goals.

Phases to identify First, you need to identify the three phases of any lift. The eccentric phase is where we lengthen the muscles. Think of someone doing a chin-up, where he is lowering the body towards the ground into a straight arm hang position (until his arms are straight). The concentric phase involves shortening the muscles. Think of the person lifting his body back up – his arms are now bent. The

isometric phase is where the muscles do not shorten or lengthen during the contraction. So this would count as the person holding his weight at either the top or the bottom of his chin-up move. The tempo is value in seconds assigned to each phase of a lift. For example, the most common tempo is 2:1:2:1. This means two seconds of eccentric, one second of isometric, two seconds of concentric and one second of isometric. Picture someone bench pressing – he would lower the bar towards his chest for two seconds, pause with the weight just above his chest for one second, push it away from his chest for two seconds, then pause with straight arms for one second. This would be one complete repetition, with a total time of five seconds per repetition.

Time under tension Tempo relates to time under tension (TUT). This is a great way to find out exactly how much time you need to spend on sets and repetitions. DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  35


HEALTH & FITNESS

Do these moves using calisthenics (bodyweight training), resistance machines and/ or free weights

If you do a set of 10 repetitions at 2:1:2:1, then you are under tension for a minute for that set. If your workout consists of 20 to 25 sets of 10, then you are ‘working’ for 20 to 25 minutes, so you can adjust your rest time to manipulate the intensity. It’s clear that 20 to 25 sets, done in one hour, will feel very different to 20 to 25 sets done in 40 minutes, if you keep the loading the same. By manipulating the tempo, you can increase your nervous system responses and recruit more muscles to shift the weight. It is all too common, in a gym, to see people getting through their exercises as fast as possible, which in turn limits the adaptations (changes the body begins to make as a result of training stimulus) sought.

fast and slow tempos: Try 6:2:6:2 and 6:6:6:1 (particularly nasty tempos), or 3:0:1:0, which allows you to generate a lot of force in the fast concentric phase. To train for endurance, you’re looking at doing longer sets and having shorter rests, with light or moderate loads. This means slow and fast tempos are effective, as long as TUT and rest times are kept in check. The tempo you choose will be dependent on your fitness goal but don’t stick to just one. Mix it up from time to time to keep your body guessing and see your results improve.

Goal-specific tempo choices The most common tempos chosen by lifters are 2:1:2:1, 3:0:1:0 and 2:0:1:0. The zero value means that there is no pause at either the top or bottom of the lift. To train for strength, take a heavy load and apply a long eccentric phase, like 4:1:4:1. This allows you to recruit more motor units and use more muscles to move the load. To train for power, take a heavy load and try to move it quickly through the concentric phase. This means that you are using your explosive, fast twitch muscle fibres. (Fast twitch A muscle fibres are the ones you might use when push starting a car; fast twitch B (or explosive power) muscle fibres are the ones that could help you literally flip a car.) Power is your ability to turn strength into speed, so a long eccentric phase is a good idea, ideally with a 4:0:X:0 or 4:1:X:1 tempo. The ‘X’ represents ‘explosive’, so be sure to move the weight as quickly as possible through this phase. To train for hypertrophy, you need to overload the muscle so consider TUT, rest and workload. Hypertrophy sessions require many sets and repetitions, with moderate to heavy loading in a relatively short space of time. It’s best to employ a mixture of 36  LIFE ON LANTAU

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

The tempo is value in seconds assigned to each phase of a lift

Jamie McGregor is a personal trainer with Perun Fitness, which runs classes in Tung Chung and South Lantau. You can call him on 6443 6597, or visit www.perunfitness.com.


TUNG CHUNG ANIMAL CLINIC 東涌動物診所 T: 2988 1534 F: 2988 1586 In case of emergency: ARK VETERINARY HOSPITAL (SISTER CLINIC) 2549 2330

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4/20/11

OUR SERVICES In-house lab work Vaccinations 24hr hospitalisation services Ultrasound

Shop No.7, Ma Wan Villiage, Tung Chung, Lantau

Radiology

東涌馬灣新村7號地下

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Acupuncture

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ASK THE EXPERT

OFFICE 3483 5003

www.homesolutions.hk

Sharon Riley Misako Takato Kim Jomar

9664 4749 9757 0927 9748 2367

(S-415475) (S-287062) (E-352962)

NOW SERVING SOUTH LANTAU AND TUNG CHUNG

ITALIAN COOKING TIPS FROM COMO LAKE By Chef Giampiero

52K-68K MICHELIA VILLAS IN CHEUNG SHA 1550’ - 1540’ Net + Gardens

9 brand new luxuriously renovated Villas in desirable Cheung Sha. Each villa has 3 Beds & 2-3 Baths. Separate kitchens. Large living area leading to large garden. Private parking. 2 mins walk to the beach. Gated complex.

45K LEYBURN VILLA IN CHEUNG SHA 1382’ NET + Large Balcony & Terrace

Beautiful Villa ready to move in! 3 Beds & 2.5 Bath. Fully equipped open plan kitchen leading to dining area. Stairs down to large living room with sea views. Private parking. Complex has swimming pool, gym and 24 hr security.

Photo by Terry Chow

I

f there’s one thing I’ve learnt about Italian cooking over the past 50 years, it’s to use fresh ingredients and extra-virgin olive oil. By so doing, you are already guaranteed a more delicious and authentic outcome. Here are a couple more tips that I hope you will find useful.

45K MUI WO VILLAGE HOUSE 2100’ + 700’ Rooftop + 2050’ Walled garden

Tastefully decorated home. 5 Beds & 2.5 Baths inc 1 large ensuite. Quality designed open plan kitchen with breakfast island. Sitting room leads out to large garden with grass, decking and patio. Extra room on the rooftop for laundry and entertainment! Rare on market!

11.8M MUI WO VILLAGE HOUSE 2100’ + 700’ Roof + Garden

Stunning village house in quiet village. 3 well designed Bedrooms & 3 Baths inc 1 ensuite. Open plan fully equipped kitchen. Living area on 1st floor. Top floor dedicated to large master with ensuite. Lovely green views from partially covered rooftop.

The best tomato paste The first dish that I’d like to share with you is a very traditional, simple and healthy one, ideal for lunch or dinner – Spaghetti Pomodoro and Basilico (Tomato and Basil Pasta). For this dish, the most important thing is to make a good tomato sauce. Firstly, combine extra-virgin olive oil and chopped garlic in a pan on a medium heat. Once the garlic is half cooked, add a little unsalted butter, mix together and then add a few slices of fresh basil. (If you can’t get fresh basil, leave making this dish to another day.) Finish by adding fresh tomatoes that you have diced in a blender. Season to taste. The pasta you use doesn’t have to be spaghetti, the important thing is that it is al dente (firm to the bite). Boil it for no more than oneand-a-half minutes. Drain well, combine with the sauce and serve.

Talked about Tiramisu And now for the Tiramisu – a Como Lake favourite. This delicious dessert is a winning combination of whipping cream, sugar, mascarpone cheese, espresso, ladyfingers and Italian liquor (either Sambuca or Amaretto). All the recipes you read in books or online will be similar but I want to share two techniques with you that will make your Tiramisu the best of the best. Firstly, before you stir in the cream, chill it at around 5°C. You want the cream to be a bit solid when you add it to the other ingredients. Secondly, soak the ladyfingers in the espresso for just one or two seconds – if you get them too wet, your Tiramisu will be runny. Indeed, Italian cooking is relatively easy (as well as very healthy). There are no big secrets to it. I hope you enjoy sharing these dishes with your families. To contact Chef Giampiero, or book a table at Como Lake, call 2984 0009. You’ll find Como Lake at Stall Nos. 2 and 4, Mui Wo Cooked Food Market, Mui Wo. 38  LIFE ON LANTAU

OCTOBER/ NOVEMBER 2015

2.88M MUI WO FLAT 429’ Net

Making you feel at home is our business

Currently tenanted renovated flat in Mui Wo Centre. 2 Beds & 1 Bath. Separate kitchen with window opening. Beautiful wooden flooring throughout. Comes as seen with tenancy.

Call us any time at 3483 5003 or Email PROPERTY@HOMESOLUTIONS.HK

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SUCCESS STORY

KOREN THOMAS: EPICLAND

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www.evoqueportraits.com

y business partner Karina Aswani and I opened Discoveryland – the city’s largest indoor playground – in DB North Plaza in June 2014. We rebranded as EpicLand in October because ‘epic’ is the experience

you get!

EpicLand covers a full 14,000 square-feet. We have the largest indoor slides in the city, an area called The Cage which is filled with obstacles and slides, Hong Kong’s only air-trek obstacle course, four climbing walls, laser tag, trampolining, a multi-purpose sports court, mini golf, a ballistics area where one shoots foam balls at targets, and a toddlers-only soft play zone. People are always surprised to hear that Karina and I first met just 18 or so months before Discoveryland (as it was then) opened. We were in Uncle Russ in DB Plaza, and we started chatting about the need for this type of adventure centre in DB. I’m a 20-year DB resident and my daughter Jade, 11, is a Year 8 student at Discovery College. It’s important to me that parents have a good time, as well as kids of all ages. Our laser-tag parties are a huge hit, and in October we opened a laser-maze room called d’laser. EpicLand now also hosts a number of classes: iGym, RugBees, Piloxing, Zumba and Yoga. Older fans can rent the entire venue, and we offer corporate and team-building programmes. Parents can rest assured that EpicLand takes safety very seriously. At any one time there are 12 supervisors on the floor, all firstaid trained. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. While Karina previously ran a soft play centre in Kowloon, all staff members have relevant experience working in soft play halls, leisure centres, or on cruise ships. Family passes are available which cut costs for regular visitors. There are three party rooms available for hire, and an Epic Café. Only Ecolab cleaning products are used – they are non-toxic, nonallergenic, mould-free and made from natural ingredients. Karina and I are both mums, so we feel we know what our clients want.

For more information on EpicLand, visit www.epiclandhk.com.

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  39


LANTAU FACES

COMMUNITY SNAPS

Email your photos for Lantau Faces to info@baymedia.com.hk. Life on Lantau accepts no liability for the photos sent

Who do you know? Find more familiar faces @ www.arounddb.com

Photos by Leah Ahmad 40  LIFE ON LANTAU

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016


LIFE ON LANTAU CLASSIFIEDS HEALTH & BEAUTY

KIDS

SERVICES

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bodyawakening.net International & Domestic Moves Air Conditioned Storage Pet Relocations Vehicle Handling

+852 2561 3030 info@relosmart.asia

www.relosmart.asia PROPERTY APARTMENT IN TUNG CHUNG FOR SHORT/LONG-TERM LEASE Fully furnished apartment for shortterm lease, excellent condition. Min. rental period: 1 month. From 2-bedroom to 3-bedroom apartments. Interested parties, please contact Miss Man on 9806 9175 / 9872 7395, tanford787@gmail.com

for independent living HEALTH SUPPLEMENTS

PROBIOTICS, SUPERFOOD, OMEGA 3

SERVICES Alcoholics Anonymous

If you want to drink, that’s your business. If you want to stop, WE CAN HELP! No dues or fees. 24hour hotline: 9073 6922 Lantau hotline: 5668 2667 www.aa-hk.org

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Qualifications & Experiences Bachelor & Master Degree in Music Teacher training in IB MYP & DP Taught students from age 4 to 64

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LOCAL NUMBERS

Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com

TUNG CHUNG EMERGENCY – FIRE/POLICE/AMBULANCE – 999 North Lantau Hospital 3467 7000 Tung Chung Fire Station 2988 8733 Tung Chung Police Station 3661 1694 Tung Chung Ambulance Depot 2988 8282 COMMUNITY SERVICES Public Library 2109 3011 Public Swimming Pool 2109 9107 COMPUTER REPAIRS Bobby Mirchandani 9425 3812 EDUCATION Christian & Missionary Alliance Church Education Centre 3141 7319 Discovery Mind Play Centre & Kindergarten 2987 8070 Discovery Mind Primary School 2915 0666 Greenfield International Kindergarten 2162 5538 Han Xuan Language Education Centre 2666 5905 Salala Kids’ House 2611 9193 Soundwaves English Education Centre 9045 2914 Sun Island Education Foundation 2420 1068 Sunshine House International Preschool 2109 3873 Tung Chung Catholic School 2121 0884 YMCA of Hong Kong Christian College 2988 8123 FOOD & RESTAURANTS Essence Restaurant - Novotel Citygate 3602 8808 Handi Indian Restaurant 2988 8674 McDonald’s Delivery 2338 2338 Melody Thai 2988 8129 Moccato Coffee Shop 3602 8838 Olea Restaurant - NovotelCitygate 3602 8818 Pizza Hut 2330 0000 Resto Restaurant 2886 3156 Velocity Bar and Grill - Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott 3969 2583 HEALTH & BEAUTY Hairdresser - Ricky 9882 9741 Max Beauty 2162 5752 MTM Spa 2923 6060 Om Spa 2286 6266 Quan Spa 3969 2188 Radha’s Place 5374 7133 Tung Chung Facial & Nails 9669 9433 HOME REPAIRS & DESIGN Mega Power Engineering/Locksmiths 2109 2330 O-Live Decor 8105 2588 Shun Yu Engineering 2988 1488 Tung Chung Handyman - Peter 9161 0348 Towner Interior Design 3113 4968 Wing Shing Interior Design 5403 0363 HOTELS Novotel Citygate 3602 8888 Regal Airport Hotel 2890 6060 Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel 3969 1888 KIDS 4 Dimensions+ (Dance, Gym, Drama, Art) 9446 6013 Clement Art School 9021 1502 Jumping Castles 9662 1747 Kidznjoy 6273 7347 Little Stars Playgroup 6479 0390 Sakura Kids 6674 6194 The Story Studio 6341 3989

42  LIFE ON LANTAU

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

TUNG CHUNG MEDICAL Bayside Dental 2185 6550 Essential Health Family Clinic 2109 9396 Human Health Medical Centre 2109 2288 Quality HealthCare Medical 2403 6623 Quality HealthCare Physiotherapy 2403 6328 Raffles Medical 2261 2626 Raffles Medical Emergency 2261 0999 PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Coelho Photography RedJacq Photography

9258 0971 9313 6887

REAL ESTATE Home Solutions

3483 5003

REMOVALS & RELOCATIONS Akash Removals 2421 8088 FTC Relocations 2814 1658 ReloSmart 2561 3030 SwiftRelo 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 2914 0658 Asia Pacific Soccer Schools 2385 9677 Canterano Futbol Club 5611 2490 Dance for Joy 9264 8597 Edge ’n Pointe Dance Centre 6688 2167 Epic Tung Chung 2786 9699 HK Dragons 2987 4274 Kinder Kicks Soccer 2385 9677 KIPMOVIN 6180 3256 La Cantera 2557 8007 Perun Fitness 6443 6597 Pilates Plus 9838 3937 Tennis lessons 6025 7990 Ving Tsun 5264 3149 Vision Pilates 5132 3213 YD Taekwondo Korea 2337 9992 Zumba & Bollywood Dance 6497 8086 USEFUL NUMBERS Alcoholics Anonymous 9073 6922 Arrow Accounting Services 6201 9710 Carpet washing, repairs & sales 2623 0499 Clarinet, saxophone, flute lessons 9413 0498 Dyslexia/Dyscalculia - Patricia Hamlin 6775 9735 Expat Living Hong Kong 3480 7614 FTC Apparel 2428 2566 Piano lessons 9467 4633 Phoenix Wills 3100 0101 VETERINARY & PET SITTING SERVICES Royal Pets Ltd - Pet Sitting Tung Chung Animal Clinic Tung Chung Vet Centre

6314 9887 2988 1534 2328 7282


Add your business for FREE @ www.arounddb.com SOUTH LANTAU ART & CULTURE Flanhardt Galerie und Atelier (FGUA)

DISCOVERY BAY 2882 3390

EDUCATION Buddhist Fat Ho College 2985 5150 Dramatic English (DEI) Kindergarten 2109 9886 Lantau International Kindergarten 2984 0302 Lantau International School 2980 3676 Lao Shi Lantau Mandarin lessons 5197 4647 Little Lantau Montessori Kindergarten 3689 6709 Mindfulness Matters 9048 5425 Mui Wo Owls School & Kindergarten 2984 0006 Peak Communication 9422 1347 The Story Studio 6341 3989 FOOD & RESTAURANTS Bahçe Turkish Restaurant 2984 0222 Caffe Paradiso 2984 0498 China Bear 2984 9720 Como Lake 2984 0009 Deer Horn Restaurant & Bar 3484 3095 High Tide 2980 3002 Lantana Italian Bistro 5465 5511 Loi Chan Frozen Meat Co. 2984 8346 Maverick’s 5662 8552 Natural Plus 2984 2233 T Party Cakes 9276 5734 Tai O Solo Café 9153 7453 The Gallery 2980 2582 The Kitchen 5991 6292 The Stoep 2980 2699 HEALTH & BEAUTY Dietitian - Patricia Castle 5690 0366 Spa Ambiance 2984 2488 Spa Puretouch 2984 0088 HOME REPAIRS & DESIGN New Look Design 9783 5840 Unitek 9156 0360 HOTELS Silvermine Beach Resort Tai O Espace Elastique B&B Tai O Heritage Hotel

6810 0111 2985 7002 2985 8383

REAL ESTATE Home Solutions 3483 5003 Findley Leung 2984 8334 RETAIL Lantau Base Camp 5463 6060 Quay House 2882 8710 SPORT & RECREATION Lantau Base Camp 5463 6060 Treasure Island 2546 3543 Vision Pilates 5132 3213 Zumba Fitness 9861 6657 TRANSPORT New Lantau Bus Company

2984 9848

USEFUL NUMBERS Alcoholics Anonymous 9073 6922 Phoenix Wills 6108 8471 VETERINARY SERVICES SPCA Mui Wo

LOCAL NUMBERS

2984 0060

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 Kindergarten Discovery Mind Primary School Mandarin for Munchkins SKH Wei Lun Primary School Sunshine House International Preschool

2914 2142 2987 7331 3969 1000 2987 8088 2914 2202 2480 3909 2987 8608 2987 8143

FOOD & RESTAURANTS 22˚ North Caramba Mexican Cantina Chef’s Choice Hemingway’s McSorley’s Ale House Uncle Russ - DB Plaza Uncle Russ - DB North Plaza

2987 2298 2987 2848 2172 6111 2987 8855 2987 8280 2682 0068 2682 8110

HEALTH & BEAUTY A Mother’s Touch 2851 9654 Afflatus Hair Workshop 2987 0283 MOW Grooming and Skin Care 2499 8826 M Spa 2987 0614 Nailed It! 2987 2266 Strand and Science HairSpa 2886 3820 The Centre for Pregnancy & Newborn 6256 0406 MEDICAL Bayside Dental Practice 2987 0855 DB Medical Centre 2987 5633 Health and Care Dental Clinic 2666 6183 IMI (Integrated Medicine Institute) 2537 1087 Island Health 2987 7575 Quality Health Physiotherapy 2473 6200 RETAIL Bookazine Dymocks P-Solution

2987 1373 2987 8494 2987 1777

SPORT & RECREATION Caissa Chess Club Daruma Sports DB Pirates DMR School of Ballet Embody HK Dragons Football Club Island Dance KIPMOVIN Movement Improvement Harry Wright International The HIT Room

9681 2896 6244 6093 2517 8248 2987 4338 6624 8712 2987 4274 2987 1571 6180 3256 2987 5852 2575 6279 6621 7410

TRANSPORT Hire Car Bookings Passenger Telephone Hotline

2987 6348 2987 0208

PROPERTY LISTINGS AND BOATS AquaBlu Marine Lifestyle Homes & Boats Headland Homes Okay.com Savills Hong Kong

6017 7802 2914 0888 2987 2088 2102 0888 2987 1919

USEFUL NUMBERS Alcoholics Anonymous Auberge Discovery Bay Hotel Centre for Pregnancy and Newborn Island Veterinary Services

9073 6922 2295 8288 6256 0406 2987 9003

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016 LIFE ON LANTAU  43


STEPPIN’ OUT

7 UNUSUAL ACTIVITIES TO TRY OVER THE HOLIDAYS Contributed by Nick Thorpe for www.thehkhub.com

H

ong Kong is one of the most exciting, vibrant cities in the world. But for many people who live here, life quickly falls into a safe routine of the same bars, clubs and restaurants. It’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy of food fads, or yet another new joint serving over-priced cocktails for its short life span. But turn off the well-worn paths and you’ll soon discover a veritable treasure trove of exciting and unusual things to do. Here are seven of the best.

Bubble Soccer Anyone can join a local team and play football all over Hong Kong. But did you know that you can also climb inside a massive bubble and purposefully crash into each other while playing as well? This sport has to be experienced to be believed. Visit www.bubblesoccer.hk.

Bungee jumping

Photo courtesy of www.clipartsheep.com

A boat ride away and you’ll find the world’s highest bungee jump at Macau Tower. Plunge from a 233-metre high platform and free fall at a speed of 200 kilometres per hour. To get into the ultimate e x t re m e s p o r t , v i s i t www.macautower.com.mo.

Bay and chill out. Multi-level ice skating courses are on offer; bonus points for not falling over. Visit www.cityplaza.com.

Nitrogen ice cream In a city obsessed with dessert, it might tickle your fancy to know that Hong Kong plays host to Lab Made, Asia’s first liquid nitrogen ice cream factory. The low-fat ices are made fresh in front of you, taste silky smooth, and make you feel a little bit like a Bond villain. For store locations, visit www.labmade.com.hk.

Paragliding You’ve done the hikes, discovered the secret beaches, and camped in Pui O. Now experience Hong Kong from a totally different angle by paragliding over the lush mountains and beautiful bays. For basic or intermediate certification courses, available in Sai Kung, visit www.paraglidehk.homestead.com.

Trampolining Remember how fun trampolining can be? Well, let loose your inner child at Ryze, Hong Kong’s enormous trampoline park in Quarry Bay. Also featuring dodge ball courts and foam pits galore, this isn’t just fun, it’s a proper workout for the entire family. Visit www.ryzehongkong.com.

Graffiti West Hong Kong is quickly becoming the defacto hipster hangout on the island, complete with boutique galleries and astonishing urban art. Before you take to the streets yourself, sign up for a (legal) graffiti course and discover its secrets. To study graffiti at the City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, visit www.cityu.edu.hk.

Ice skating In a city where it never snows, you can get a taste of what you’re missing – on ice. Head down to the Cityplaza Ice Palace in Quarry 44  LIFE ON LANTAU

DECEMBER 2015/ JANUARY 2016

Need to buy something but not sure where to find it? Heading out for the day but not sure where to go? Looking for a great restaurant on Hong Kong Island? Life on Lantau has teamed up with The HK Hub, your one-stop guide to all things Hong Kong. Visit www.thehkhub.com.




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