42 PLAYING IN POLLUTION Summer 2014

STAY SHARP THIS SUMMER 52

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news resources

8 WHAT’S ON 24 TOY BOX A look at what’s going on this month Get out and explore with these picks.

10 HOT OFF THE PRESS 26 BOOKSHELF Hip new shops, services and products Read all about Hong Kong!

16 FINGER ON THE PULSE 28 SHIPSHAPE Relevant news from around the world We spend a lot of time on, in or near the water, but how much do we know about 18 ECO HERO Hong Kong’s centuries of coastal culture? Ideas and products for greener living Set sail to discover stories of the seas. advice 90 STOCKISTS See something you like? We’ll tell you 20 BEAUTY 101 where to get it. Photography Top tips for looking your best Melanie Adamson 22 RATED PG Model Resolving the old you with the new parent- Chase styled you can cause some angst, writes Orla Breeze. Clothes Chase wears Imps & Elfs t-shirt with detail, $360, Atelier de Paris.

Eco Hero Toy Box Bookshelf pg 18 pg 24 pg 26

Summer 2014 1 Summer 2014

74 COLOUR 68 ARTISTIC VISION MY DAY

features

32 CYBER-SAVVY CITY LIVING 52 STAY SHARP THIS SUMMER 74 COLOUR MY DAY Getting to know a city still takes feet on Keeping your brain fit over the summer Inspired by the block colours of our the street. But, when you’re not looking break doesn’t have to be a bore or a background, we created a clean for a long wander, websites and apps chore. and cheerful collection of clothes to can help focus your efforts. celebrate the fun summer ahead. 58 GET YOUR HOLIDAY BOOKED 38 PLAYING IN POLLUTION If you’re looking for something meaty 82 EMERGING MARKETS Enduring Hong Kong’s suffocating, and worthwhile – and appropriate for There’s a world of foods to explore smog-filled skyline is one of the daily your daughter to read, too – here are in Hong Kong, but you need to step battles we face living in the city. Just some picks for the summer. beyond the supermarket. how bad is the city’s air pollution? And what is its impact on our children? 62 MACAU FOR MINIS 87 LOCAL FLAVOURS More than just a playground for Once you’ve sourced your ingredients 46 HELPING HANDS grown-ups, this nearby city presents a from the local market, here’s how to use For most of us living in Hong Kong, quick and easy destination for family them to make easy and delicious family- being able to employ a full-time, fun, no flights required. friendly meals. live-in helper is a luxury we wouldn’t be able to afford elsewhere. But, how 68 ARTISTIC VISION 96 LAST WORD do we incorporate another adult into See the city from the eyes of two We live in the world’s most vertical city, the household, and what exactly do Australian creatives, who have found says father-of-three Nury Vittachi. they do? beauty in the most unusual places.

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tracey Starr t: 2201 9710 e: [email protected] Sharon Maloney A true blue Hong Kong girl, born and raised here PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR Jo Allum by her British and Chinese parents, Sharon works t: 2201 9719 as a teacher in a local school. In her free time, e: [email protected] Sharon can be found eating, writing or with her head in a recipe book and drinking a large ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Florence Choy Wan cocktail (usually all at the same time!). While t: 2201 9721 not a professional chef, Sharon has cooked for most of her life e: [email protected] and has very little patience for long, complicated recipes. Being extremely lazy, Sharon makes do by adapting most recipes to 30 minutes or less. When not thinking about or making food, Sharon spends her time on her island ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Narelle Edwards (Cheung Chau), usually at the beach with her son. You can follow Sharon on e: [email protected] Twitter: @jasmine_ginger, or on her blog: www.jasmine-ginger.com.

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Nalini Balachandra e: [email protected]

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Marie Milan t: 2201 9724 Belinda Bath e: [email protected] Belinda had an idyllic childhood growing up on a farm in Cowra, NSW, Australia, with two siblings, riding horses, motorbikes and getting a country ART DIRECTOR education. At the tender age of 17, she moved Charlotte Chandler to the “big smoke” of Sydney to study fashion design and illustration. After a few years, she moved to Melbourne to pursue a career in advertising, working as a freelance SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER advertising stylist on catalogues, print ads and magazines. Eman Lam Having worked with so many creative people and photographers over the years, it seemed like a natural progression when her family relocated to Hong Kong seven years ago and Belinda embarked on a new creative

GRAPHIC DESIGNER adventure: a canvas design project (belindabathimages.com). Nurturing her Mike Walshe love of photography and travel, Asia has provided endless inspiration. Belinda spends her free time exploring this amazing city with her husband and two kids, and working on her new blog – www.stylebriefhongkong.com – with Ingrid Keneally. GRAPHIC DESIGNER Cristian Checcanin

CEO David Tait t: 2201 9727 e: [email protected]

FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS & DISTRIBUTION t: 2201 9716

PUBLISHED BY: PPP Company Ltd, Unit 713, Level 7, Core E, Cyberport 3, 100 Cyberport Road, Cyberport, Hong Kong CONTRIBUTORS: Tel: +852 2201 9716 PRINTED BY: Toppan Printing Company Ltd. in Hong Kong Melanie Adamson; Belinda Bath; Orla Breeze; Angelina Draper; Published by PPP Company Limited. The publication is sold on the understanding that the publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, Olivia Hungerford; Rachel Jacqueline; Gillian Johnston; errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a purchaser of the publication or not, in respect of any action or omission or the consequences of any action or omission by any such person, whether whole or partial, upon the whole Ingrid Keneally; Rachel Kenney; Erica Lyons; Sharon Maloney; or part of the contents of this publication. All rights reserved, 2014 PPP Company Limited. No part of this work, covered by the publisher’s copyright may be reproduced in any form by any means, graphic, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or information storage and retrieval, without the written permission of the publisher. Any unauthorised use of this Katrina Shute; Eleanor Smallwood; Nury Vittachi; Nicole Webb publication will result in immediate legal proceedings.

welcome Tracey and models Brighton and Lorelei

’ve been living in Hong Kong for more than five years, but I’m continually surprised by how much I don’t know about my adopted country. After some eager and enthusiastic exploration in our first I year, I seem to have fallen into a steady routine, rarely stepping out to wander down a new path. This month’s theme – Getting to know Hong Kong – is designed especially for all of us who could benefit from shaking up our normal routines and seeing a different side of the city. If you find yourself shopping at the same supermarket week after week – and always complaining about the price, the selection, the freshness – then you’ll want to check out the article about local markets. We’ll tell you what’s on offer and what to expect, and even suggest a few dishes to make with your newfound treasures. Ever find yourself stewing in the rush-hour humidity, fuming that you got off to a late start and consequently can’t find a taxi? You’ll want to check out “Cyber-savvy city living”, where, among other cool stuff, you’ll find a taxi booking app that will change your life. I’m not exaggerating. You will thank us when you first experience its magic. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life, recently returned from time abroad, or are an expat only camping here temporarily, there’s surely something left to explore. This month marks the end of our production year. After taking a bit of time to enjoy the summer sun, we’ll be back again in September, when we begin our 12th year! That’s a long legacy that we’re looking forward to celebrating, but it’s also a great chance for us to change things up a smidge and bring you some new treats. I hope you have a wonderful summer, and I’ll see you in September.

Thanks for reading,

Tracey Starr, Editor-in-Chief

6 Playtimes sponsored feature Summer THE HOTTEST HAPPENINGS AROUND TOWN

11-13/7 11/ 7 -17/8

9/7 Swap Meet Dora’s International YoYo Mama HK offers opportunities for eco- Coming! Arts Carnival conscious parents to swap, donate or buy Dora has lost her teddy bear and needs An amazing array of family-friendly gently used kids’ items. To learn more about help to rescue him. See Dora and all of entertainment is on offer at this year’s them and their event, email her friends at Star Hall at KITEC. Click carnival, including music, dance, film and [email protected]. www.doralivehk.com. more. Visit www.hkiac.gov.hk. 16-22/7 27/7 & 3/8

Reading the New Pre-school Open House World Miles International, in a new mall beside From heavy tomes to cult comics, whatever Repulse Bay beach, provides a perfect you fancy, the 25th annual Hong Kong learning environment for both parents Book Fair has it, along with authors and and children. Learn more at cultural events. Visit www.hkbookfair.com. www.milesinternational.com.hk. 22-24/8 Kids Got 15 & 16/8 Talent Dim Sum The W Hotel hosts a day of fun, including a bouncy castle, photo session with Adventures Venture Photography, face painting, The Hong Kong Dance Company Children’s food and an entertaining show. Email and Youth Troupes present a moving portrait [email protected]. of grandparents and grandchildren. Find details and tickets at www.urbtix.hk.

Asian Youth Orchestra Looking to inspire your mini maestro? Enjoy a performance of this elite orchestra, which brings together 100 of the finest young 10/8 musicians in Asia. Visit www.asianyouthorchestra.com.

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Talent time Walk on the To promote whole child education, RockABaby is collaborating with Miles International Academy to put on an wild side! exciting musical production for children aged 30 months to Urban Discovery’s iDiscover City eight years. Professional teachers will prepare children over Walks free app unlocks secrets the course of six weeks this summer for a performance on 30 in Hong Kong’s most authentic August. Singing, dancing, acting and music production with neighbourhoods. The app makes peers improves musical skills and teamwork, whilst developing exploring easy with a series of social and communication skills. The programme also aims self-guided walks for the family or to help little performers’ emotional development through an guests. Walks for Sheung Wan, Wan inspiring story. Prepare to perform by calling 3586 3070, or Chai, Sham Shui Po and Sai Kung are emailing [email protected]. included, each listing 20 to 30 sites, with information on history, urban legends and hidden gems. The app provides clear directions with Chinese characters in case you get lost and need to ask a local! iDiscover Bali and Java are also available, with Macau and Yangon coming soon. Download it from the iTunes App Store, or start exploring at www.i-discoverasia.com. hot off the press Caine collection Hong Kong’s home-grown interiors specialist, Indigo Living, has opened a store on Caine Road. Minutes from Soho’s boutiques, the new store borders historical landmarks and luxurious developments, bringing an exciting dimension in home design to the district. Clients can experience a complete design consultancy service with a consultant offering guidance on styles, colours and dimensions. The light, expansive store showcases a wide variety of Indigo’s gorgeous indoor and outdoor furniture collections, accessories and soft furnishings. Popular with design-savvy parents and demanding Super children, the brand’s Indigo Kids range is also featured. Shop at G/F, 63-69 Caine Road, Mid-Levels (www.indigo-living.com). stroller Tired of dragging round a massive pushchair, but still want something comfortable? Mamas & Papas have created the Armadillo with all the main features you love, but that folds with one hand to a surprisingly compact size in seconds. The roomy Armadillo reclines fully and has an adjustable leg rest. It also features a hood for weather protection, a peek-a-boo window, space for your bag, and is travel-friendly. The stroller is suitable from birth through to 15kg (approximately three to four years old) and weighs only 8kg. Buy your buggy – in black liquorice, blue or pink – at Bumps to Babes for $2,500 (www.bumpstobabes.com). Cute and cuddly Since 1998, Kaloo has indulged our little ones with tenderness and softness. Their famous icons, Chubby bears and Chubby rabbits, now have five new friends: Régliss the baby donkey, Vanille the lamb, Caramel the puppy, Coco the kitten and Praliné the baby rabbit. Designed for softness and outstanding quality, the animals come in a variety of fabrics and colours, presented in an elegant drawer box. From an animal to accompany your children’s adventures or a doudou puppet for creative play, the Friends of Kaloo collection is simply irresistible. See the Friends at www.kaloo.com. Summer Brain styles training Nine Months is the one-stop destination for your summer maternity wardrobe. Wear the Charlotte Dress from Madderson London ($2,999) with sandals during the day running errands, then grab a clutch and put your hair up for dinner at night. The beautiful silk fabric suits all stages of pregnancy and beyond – great for busy mums-to-be in Hong Kong. Shorts are a wardrobe staple for our hot, humid summer, and Nine Months stocks a wide range. Try a pair of denim shorts from the exclusive label RY.DAN ($450), in five different cheerful colours. Get covered at www.ninemonthshk.com. Yoga Kingdom presents BrainEdventure to awaken children’s awareness for emotional control, while teaching them how the brain Clowning around functions and how to divert their focus and concentration where it matters most. The Rumple and Friends children’s entertainment company is hosting the only instructor uses yoga movement to train circus school in Hong Kong for kids! Director Matt Coombes taught circus children’s bodies, along with visualisation, skills at The National Centre for Circus in London, and is a professional breathing techniques, games and singing. actor and director. Join Rumple for a week of juggling, spinning, clowning The programme’s experienced designer around and more fun than kids could dream of. The course, at the Hong is Annie Walle, who’s registered by Yoga Kong Arts Centre in Wan Chai, Alliance UK to teach children’s yoga. from 7 to 11 July, costs $3,000 Incorporating the best strategies of Yoga, per student (including all BrainGym and Mindup, BrainEdventure materials, costumes, props, aims to develop children’s focus, attention training and performance). and social-emotional learning with joy. Kids will learn juggling, The three-day camp costs $1,800, with a acrobatics, plate spinning and a special early-bird discount available to acrobalance. Learn more at Playtimes readers. Call 8348 1683, or click www.rumpleandfriends.com. www.yogakingdom.hk.

Summer 2014 11 Engaging education If a picture tells a thousand words, what more can the visually attractive, tactile Montessori materials do to ignite your child’s passion to learn? Montessori education engages the whole person, and trains focus, inner discipline and motor skills, with manipulative materials that bring academic learning to life. Verbal descriptions pale in comparison to the real experience in the Montessori environment, led by trained guides who facilitate children’s discoveries and show them clear concepts. Touch2learn Education Centre’s friendly, warm atmosphere is where your child, aged 18 months to six years, can benefit from this experience. Visit www.touch2learn.com.hk.

Flexible Party time fitness facility Great news for Hongkongers too busy to use gym memberships, complete workout packages or suss out studios: Fitboo Hong Kong’s go-to online party planning has launched here, platform, EezyPeezyParties, has added ten maximising ways to themes to its range. Covering colour trends, work out. They’ve summer parties and end-of-year celebrations, teamed up with you can go for gold and silver prints, a nautical in-demand fitness theme or Hello Kitty. Cupcake sets are available studios to offer the for graduations and July 4th celebrations. best classes in one Eezypeezyparties.com offers time-challenged easy place. Users hosts a user-friendly platform to organise an can search and entire event without leaving their computer. book classes, buy Users can send digital e-vites, receive RSVPs, set one package and use the credits at any partner studio for two years, and up a gift registry, shop for party supplies, use a earn free credits for booking and referrals. The members’ newsletter has comprehensive party booking directory, and workout plans, recipes and inspiration to keep you on track. Sign up for send guests post-party digital thank-you cards free and check out the expanding partner studios at www.fitboo-hk.com. and photo galleries. Party on at www.eezypeezyparties.com. Reach your peak Newly launched is Pinnacle Performance, a premier facility in Hong Kong for individual member development and athletic training. Utilising coaching skills from ten years’ experience of working with professional and elite athletes around the world, Tom Summers, director and head strength and conditioning coach, prescribes a unique tiering system for all members to enjoy development at their specific level and towards their individual goal. Reach your pinnacle from a variety of development sessions each week within an environment that promotes improvement through expert coaching and leading facilities. Peak performers, head to 7/F, Morrison Plaza, 9 Morrison Hill Road, Wan Chai (www.pinnacleperformance.hk). Party time Let's talk BodyTalk is a new, consciousness-based, non-diagnostic therapy aiming to stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself. This simple and effective holistic therapy is intended to re-synchronise energy systems so they can operate as nature intended. By encouraging the body’s own healing abilities, clients should gain long-lasting, ongoing health improvements rather than short-term symptomatic relief. The BodyTalk system aims to help address allergies and intolerances, immune system problems and digestive issues. Let your body do the talking by learning more at www.bodytalksystem.com.hk (2523 7121). Fashionable footwear Little darlings can step out in style with UGG® Australia’s summer collection. The new pop art-inspired range is made from high-quality materials to dress tiny tootsies with pops of colour. The adorable Roldan baby boys’ bootie has a moisture-wicking lining, whilst the infant Yia Yia flip flop has a comfy heel strap. Little princes can prance around in cute Louie Camo shoes, as little princesses play in the candy-coloured Gretel sandal. For fun in the sun, the Sunny sandal features an extra-cushioned footbed. Fast foot it over to the flagship store at 2 Yiu Wa Street, Causeway Bay (www.uggaustralia.com).

Stylish shades Frankie Ray’s fashion eyewear collection for kids keeps little peepers protected and looking super-stylish. All lenses are made from impact-resistant polycarbonate and offer 100 per cent Telling tales ultraviolet protection in compliance Discover a new storytelling concept with Lingo Academy’s innovative with Australian Standards AS/NZS: 1067. storytelling and handmade story-sets. They surround children with Sunglasses are individually packaged imaginative language, introduce new vocabulary in a narrative context, in a protective PVC zip case and and allow children to voice ideas in their own words. Lingo Academy is retail for $249 from stockists including launching a series of storytelling days to coincide with their brand new Metropole Department Store, Ourbaby programme – See, Feel and Touch – stories which immerse your child in and Rainbow Care Centre. Four lucky fantasy, with fairytales that come to life. Join them on 23 August for a day readers will each win a pair of these of magical storytelling with fun-packed activities for children of all ages. cool shades. Email playtimes@ppp. Admission is free. Learn more at www.lingoacademy.com.hk. com.hk by 31 July and include “Win Frankie Ray” in the subject line.

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Language lessons Parents should think twice before Night fright distracting their toddlers with mindless touchscreen games, researchers warned after they found they were linked with Nightmares in children may be a warning sign that they are poorer speech. The research team found being bullied, British researchers have said. A study of 12-year- there was no difference in scores on olds found those who had nightmares were “significantly” more general developmental tests in children likely to have been bullied, a team at Warwick University found. aged up to three between those who Parents and GPs should be alert for nightmares in children as played educational or non-educational a warning sign of bullying and talk to children about it, they games on touchscreen devices. However, said. The lead author said: “Nightmares are relatively common those who played non-educational games in childhood, while night terrors occur in up to ten per such as Angry Birds or Fruit Ninja had lower cent of children. If either occurs frequently or over scores in tests for both understanding of a prolonged time period, they may indicate that a language and speaking. child or adolescent has or is being bullied by peers. source: The Telegraph These arousals in sleep may indicate significant distress for the child.” source: The Telegraph finger on the pulse

Cancer blocker Sunscreen protects you from sunburn. But whether it actually prevents skin cancer has been up for debate until recently. According to a study at the Queensland University of Technology in Australia, when SPF 30-plus is properly applied, it provides 100 per cent protection against all three types of skin cancer: melanoma, squamous cell and basal cell. Even better, it not only blocks the damage that can lead to skin cancer, but also protects a special cancer-fighting gene known as p53 that helps shield us from all varieties of cancer. Sneaky sugar source: More Recently, consumers in the US sued several food manufacturers for labelling a sweetener “evaporated cane juice”, claiming that the healthy-sounding ingredient was simply another name for sugar. Lawsuits are pending, but that’s not the only sweetener with a fancy name on food labels. “Fruit juice concentrate”, ingredients ending in “-ose” and nearly all “syrups” are forms of sugar, with the same dubious nutritional value. source: Good Housekeeping

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Nature trips Experience Hong Kong’s natural beauty this summer with HK Hiking Tours’ family- friendly guided trips. Watch fireflies at Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve and see these magical critters glow on an early evening tour ($80). Alternatively sail off Sai Kung by traditional sampan to discover an ancient salt-making island and the geopark at Kiu Tsui Chau, and to learn about the Hakka people and appreciate coastal landforms. Reconnect with nature by Buzz off walking through lush woodlands to an abandoned village, ending at Fung Yuen Summer is full of beach barbecues, Butterfly Reserve. Or book the Eco- and Geotour of Plover Cove Country Park ($460) picnics, alfresco dinners – and to experience Bride’s Pool and Mirror Pool waterfalls and mangrove swamps before mosquitoes! Para’Kito natural mosquito lunch and a geopark boat trip. Hike to www.hikingtours.hk. protection comes to the rescue with safe, natural products for the whole family. Their new roll-on gel, combining seven natural essential oils, is perfect for highly infested areas such as hiking trails or campsites. Para’Kito bands and clips – in snazzy new designs, from zebra stripes to camouflage – are safe eco hero for mamas-to-be, tiny tots or anyone with sensitive skin, and are waterproof for swimming, surfing or dancing in the Sensory summer camps rain. Since, even when you’re careful, insect bites do happen, thankfully Gaia Summer Forest School is a Flow Learning™ programme to develop students’ their handy hypoallergenic bite relief experiences of nature through lively and playful activities. For children aged four gel instantly soothes and cools skin, to seven, this year’s Group B programme includes two day trips to Sai Kung, with reducing the itch. Purchase Para’Kito at activities to awaken curiosity and enthusiasm and help students use their senses to stores including Mannings, Escapade interact with the natural surroundings. Group A’s programme (students aged eight Sports and Health Quest. Learn more at to 12) includes two camping trips, with the www.hk.parakito.com aim of encouraging students to care for themselves and their companions and become positive, cooperative problem- solvers. Group A’s 12-day programme is from 20 to 25 July and 28 July to 2 August. Group B’s nine-day programme is from 6 to 8, 10 to 12, and 14 to 16 August. Learn more at www.gaiass.org. Internal health Probiotics (aka friendly bacteria) are essential for health and well-being, living in our intestinal tract and helping protect us against viruses, yeast and unfriendly bacteria. They support our immune systems and help with food break-down, enzyme secretion and waste elimination. Try Body Awakening’s probiotic powder as an easy daily breakfast addition. Containing 25 billion probiotics per serving, the powder is made from organic food that’s medically fermented in Australia, and contains only two added ingredients – a wild, antioxidant-rich Australian plum and Manuka honey. Body Awakening is so confident that if you try a bottle and aren’t impressed, they’ll give you a refund! Go to www.body-awakening.net.

18 Playtimes Sensory summer camps What foundation is best in this heat • Try a light powder that offers Q and humidity? some coverage. There is only one answer: no • Only use concealer where you need it A foundation! Nothing really works – on dark circles, spots or uneven areas, perfectly when your face is sweaty or for example. wet. Any foundation that can actually If you really feel like you need to withstand the sweat probably isn’t very wear foundation, ask for samples before good for your skin over the long term. you buy. Then, apply it and wear it for a Instead of foundation, try these tips for (hot and sweaty) day before making looking fresh: a decision.

Award-winning hair stylist and make-up artist Rennie Fensham is well-known for beauty 101 her passion and skills. Her glamorous background spans 30 years of working in beauty, fashion and TV, in South Africa, the US and, for the last eight years, in Hong Kong. Check out The big FRIZZ! her salon, Hollywood Hair, at 23/F, 1 It’s summer in Hong Kong, and that There are several ways you might Duddell Street, Central. means frizz season. But, you don’t have be contributing to your hair’s to suffer… too much. dehydration, including: First, what is frizz? When the hair’s • Not drinking enough water. cuticle layer is dehydrated, it allows • Taking certain medications. moisture to pass through the strand, • Not deep conditioning enough. which makes it swell up a bit. Ironically, • Not using the correct shampoo. that makes your hair look even drier and • Over-processing with too many frizzier, instead of smooth, defined and colour or intense treatments. shiny. Generally, frizz is more visible and If you really want to combat frizz, problematic with curly hair, because you’ll have to make some changes. the strands are already typically more • Get a keratin treatment, which dehydrated, and consequently more replaces the keratin in your hair and vulnerable. helps keep moisture out. • Use argan oils to seal the cuticle. • Change to more intense moisture and protein treatments. • Select shampoos and conditioners designed to calm the hair. • Get fewer chemical treatments. • Keep a short hairstyle. Chat with your Hong Kong stylist, who will understand the climate and work with you to find a solution that suits your hair and lifestyle.

Hong Kong must-have Chanel CC Cream It contains cornflower water, which is This moisturiser offers coverage, supposed to comfort and soothe sensitive correction and broad spectrum skin, as well as hyaluronic acid to help sunscreen, all in one fabulous product. maintain hydration all day long.

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(rated PG)

Knowing me, knowing you

Resolving the old you with the new parent-styled you can cause some angst, writes Orla Breeze.

was a bit naıve when I became a was in that car with her. breastfed for longer?” “Should I have put mum. And I don’t just mean about The thing is, I liked the old me. She him in his cot instead of letting him sleep the HUGE amount of work involved in had conquered her demons. Shouting in his stroller?” “I should be holding him I taking care of a baby. Everybody gets was something she hadn’t even thought more, shouldn’t I?” She spent most of her whacked around the face with that one. about for the vast majority of her time “should-ing” all over herself. It was more to do with how the woman I gloriously self-involved 20s. Anger had Needless to say, I wasn’t very fond thought I was before childbirth suddenly no chance of ever overcoming her, what of the new me. And with the old version turned into someone altogether different, with all the personal time she had to slowly becoming a distant memory, the and how I’d be required to get to know contemplate her life lessons. And as for idea of even trying to get to know her her all over again, whilst also trying to get guilt? Well that was something she didn’t wasn’t the least bit appealing. to know my newborn. And we all know give even the tiniest of thought to. But So I ignored her completely. how long that takes. The timing couldn’t Orla 2.0? She was a whole new animal. Until one day when the old me have been worse. She thought and felt things I didn’t even called me up out of the blue. She’d been In my case, the old Orla legged it out know were possible: sipping cocktails by the pool when she of the hospital just as soon as my baby Shouting as a new way of realised that something just didn’t feel entered the world. That self-assured, communication. Anger at creating right. A part of her was missing, she said. laid-back, emotionally stable version of herself anew as a 24/7 carer of a baby, And that part was me. So, after a little me ran as fast as she could, bellowing, who literally never stopped crying. I conversation, we agreed to get together “Taxi!” I don’t blame her, although I do mean, who knew anyone could feel to see if we could come up with a new sometimes think she could have waited irritated by a beautiful baby boy? Guilt version of Orla that was acceptable to until they had finished stitching me up. became a layer of new tight-fitting both of us – one that combined her fun, That’s just manners, right? But, as she clothing that she had never intended carefree attitude with my newfound gleefully waved from the back of that to buy, let alone wear. But man, was it understanding of life from that clearer speeding cab, she left behind a terrified difficult to take off at the end of the day! perspective of parenthood. newborn woman, desperately wishing I Or at any time actually. “Should I have Which is exactly what we did. And although she never apologised for her total abandonment of me at a time when I really could have done with her support, I knew she was sorry. She simply couldn’t cope with the changes that were coming. But, the truth is, I’m grateful she ran away. If she hadn’t, I’d never have known how important her fun and laughter were to my happiness. And I’d never have known that my happiness would make such a HUGE difference to the happiness of my family. Turns out that getting to know the new me was just as important as getting to know my new baby – and definitely just as rewarding.

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toy box 5 1 Standard Monopoly Kong life while you play. Hong Kong Edition Available from Tiny Footprints $230 details as they can, all while learning Age 8+ years 3 Thinq Hong Kong Magnets about the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, Buy as many properties as you can in $80 bustling Mong Kok and more. this fast-trading game. Build your houses Age 2+ years Available from Bookazine and Bumps and hotels throughout Hong Kong in this Enjoy 14 iconic images per pack, to Babes edition, instead of the original Atlantic including the Hong Kong skyline, Star City. Ferry, Big Buddha, trams, taxis and more. 5 LeapFrog Creativity Camera Available from Toys“R”Us These also make easy-to-pack gifts for $160 friends abroad. Age 3 to 6 years 2 Thinq Hong Kong Pairs Available from Tiny Footprints An included learning app and protective $200 case work together to help your littlest Age 3+ years 4 Brainbox Hong Kong photographers capture great images as This popular family game requires $130 they explore their surroundings. concentration and memory skills to win. Age 7+ years Available from Toys Club, Little Whale And now, you can enjoy a slice of Hong Players compete to memorise as many and other leading retailers

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KidsGo! Hong Kong: Tell Your Parents Where to Go by Mio Debnam $80 Let your kids take charge of your adventures this summer with this guide, which highlights places to explore as a family. Available from Bookazine

Lost in Hong Kong by Matthew Cooper $108 Young Tim Chan chases his mischievous dog across the city, from Hong Kong Park to Sai Kung, in this light-hearted celebration of our city. Available from Blooming Club

Hong Kong ABC by Diana Wu-David $88 Twenty-six images of Hong Kong delights bookshelf are brought to life in charming detail on the pages of this chunky board book. Available from Blooming Club and other leading retailers This is Hong Kong Lulu the Hong Kong Cat by Miroslav Sasek by Ellen WY Leou My Hong Kong Baby Book $180 $186 $200 First published in 1965, this book This story celebrates another side of From the first ultrasound until the day captures the charm and contrasts Hong Kong, transforming the mundane your child goes to school, record all of of Hong Kong then, when bamboo everyday into something special and the memories here, along with special rickshaws taxied tourists through exotic full of fun. touches of Hong Kong. streets. Available from Pollux Books, Blooming Available from Tiny Footprints Available from Pollux Books Club and other leading booksellers

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Shipshape

We spend a lot of time on, in or near the water, but how much do we know about Hong Kong’s centuries of coastal culture? Set sail to discover stories of the seas, writes Gillian Johnston.

rom its humble beginnings in clippers; sail, steam and diesel power; create key rings of endangered sea a small site in Stanley’s historic water sports, from dragon boating to creatures. Murray House with only two yachting; and our oceans’ future. This summer holiday, Annette F galleries, the Hong Kong To help kids learn in an enjoyable, and Caroline will run weekly activities. Maritime Museum (HKMM) now boasts light-hearted way, HKMM has a Expect interactive presentations, family 13 galleries, a shop and a café, all dedicated education centre with tours and a re-run of a successful easily accessible at the Central Ferry Caroline Lang, head of education and photography workshop. The popular Pier 8. The museum spans four spacious public programmes, and Annette Lo, Sea Bandits gallery (all about pirates!) floors, with a deck to view the city education programme coordinator, will be brought to life during dramatised skyline whilst watching ferries and at the helm. Last summer, Caroline tours, complete with costumed vessels criss-cross Victoria Harbour. and Annette started a children’s characters. Check the website for The HKMM is the place to programme with family activities on the details: www.hkmaritimemuseum.org. appreciate Hong Kong’s maritime first Sunday of every month in a bright This summer’s special exhibition heritage past, present and future. corner of B Deck. Overlooking the Palaces of the Seas, about French Thankfully, it’s oceans apart from a harbour, the family corner is run on a passenger liners, will surely prove popular dusty old museum. Instead, maritime is free, drop-in basis from 2pm to 5pm. with numerous fascinating insights into made magical using art, ship models, Sunday sessions include children’s sea journeys, including photos and interactive displays and 21st century picture books, puzzles and toys about menus. Kids can learn about life on- technology to create an innovative boats and sailing. According to board for passengers and crew, and attraction with exhibitions, dynamic Annette, a wooden ship with different play deck games whilst adults recline displays and educational events. sizes of cargo to be loaded without in a deckchair – the perfect way to Seafaring stories of settlers, travellers, tipping is especially popular with all experience life on an ocean wave whilst traders, pirates and battleships are ages. Children enjoy using activity remaining firmly on dry land! brought to life. sheets to locate and draw objects Afterwards, head up to the Visitors will experience Hong around the museum. Sometimes rooftop restaurant to discuss sea stories Kong’s growth from small fishing village workshops are linked to an exhibition, over tasty rations at Café 8, a social to major world port city, with huge like a recent collaboration with a enterprise run by The Nesbitt Centre. modern container and cruise terminals. local artist who’d created an ocean Whatever the weather, set sail soon for Learn about fishing junks and tea conservation installation that let kids maritime magic.

28 Playtimes Shipshape

The more side roads you stop to explore, the less likely that life will pass you by. -Robert Brault

Summer 2014 31 32 Playtimes Cyber-savvycity

Gettingliving to know a city still takes feet on the street. But, when you’re not looking for a long wander, websites and apps can help focus your efforts, writes Angelina Draper.

ooking to get to know • ParknShop (www.parknshop.com; • South Stream your city a bit better? Let iTunes and Google Play apps) (www.south-stream-seafoods.com) technology help, with this Find a broad range of products In business since 1990, South selection of some of the available from ParknShop, Great, Stream offers a variety of goods, Lmany websites and apps on offer Taste and Fusion, along with from seafood to sunscreen, living up that are designed to make life in special offers and the ability to save to their tagline: “Seafood & More!” Hong Kong a little easier and more multiple shopping lists. The apps enjoyable. allow you to scan products to add • Eat Fresh (www.eatfresh.com.hk) them to shopping lists. This “organic e-greengrocery Get your groceries delivery” company sources organic Ever tried buying all the ingredients • Marketplace by Jasons produce from local farmers, who for a special meal under one roof (www.marketplacebyjasons.com) you can “meet” on the site. in Hong Kong? It’s not an easy This site offers full online shopping endeavour for standard meals, let and delivery for this chain, as well • Buonissimo (www.buonissimo.hk) alone a special occasion. Finding a as the ability to create shopping lists Buy your Italian groceries online, large supermarket with easy parking for repeat orders. Delivery is free if including wines and waters and a wide range of foods can be you spend $500. delivered fresh from Italy twice challenging, so being able to shop weekly. They also offer a private online for groceries is particularly • Pacific Gourmet chef service. useful. You will still most likely have (www.pacificgourmet.com.hk) to order from various websites, but For those who cannot easily visit • Tai Tai Pie Pies it beats running around town. Just one of Pacific Gourmet’s three (www.taitaipiepies.com) check delivery areas before you order. Hong Kong Island locations, the If you’re looking for a large website offers the chance to order selection of sweet and savoury pies, meat, seafood, deli products and quiches, breads, cookies and more, beverages. this is the site for you.

Summer 2014 33

• Secret Ingredient • Flavour Colours (iTunes app) • Zalora (www.zalora.com.hk; iTunes (www.secretingredient.com.hk) Ever wonder which wine to order and Google Play apps) This is a ready-to-cook service: with your sea cucumber? This This online clothing, footwear and they provide all the ingredients “Chinese Food & Wine Pairing” accessories shop offers a wide variety necessary for a gourmet meal, app knows! of brands, as well as free shipping on chopped, portioned and with step- many items and a 15-day free return by-step instructions. • Table Map (www.tablemap.com; policy. iTunes and Google Play apps) Have dinner delivered and Chope (www.chope.com.hk; • Shop in HK (www.shopinhk.com) Hungry but can’t be bothered to cook iTunes and Google Play apps) allow Here you’ll find a broad selection of or even go out for take-away? The easy table booking and frequently books, gifts, toys and even clothes following three websites will deliver publish special offers and prizes. for the little ones. food from your favourite Hong Kong restaurants. Shopper’s delight Especially for new parents Many international brands deliver Growing families seem to have • Cuisine Courier to Hong Kong, with some offering a never-ending needs, and not having (www.cuisinecourier.com.hk) flat shipping rate. But, here are some to traipse around town with a baby • Food By Web home-grown online shops. in tow is music to most mamas’ (www.foodbyweb.com.hk) ears. These online retailers cater • Dial A Dinner • Spoilt (www.spoilt.com.hk) to expectant mothers, babies and (www.dialadinner.com.hk) Stuck for a present for the person infants: who has it all? Spoilt offers a Dining out selection of “experience gifts”, • BabyCentral • Open Rice (www.openrice.com; including formula racing driving, (www.babycentral.com.hk) iTunes and Google Play apps) rock climbing, private cooking • Baby Online This is Hong Kong’s most popular classes and more. (www.babyonline.com.hk) restaurant guide, which includes • BaoBae (www.baobae.com) user ratings, photos and comments. • Buy Me Design • Bloom&Grow (www.buymedesign.com) (www.bloomandgrowdirect.com) • Open Snap This is an online boutique of • Hip Little Bubba (iTunes and Google Play apps) selected products from young (www.hiplittlebubba.com) Finally a place for all those food designers from around the world, • Our Baby (www.ourbaby.com.hk) photos! This is a user-generated including furniture, gadgets, restaurant guide based on diners’ clothes, jewellery and much more. Getting from here to there photos. Although Hong Kong’s public • Snaptee (www.snaptee.co; iTunes transport system is efficient and • Yum Cha Dim Sum (iTunes app) and Google Play apps) taxis are inexpensive, these apps This handy app for dim sum Feeling creative with your phone’s and websites can help make the newbies or experts stuck in a camera? Take a picture and use commuting experience even better. dim sum rut includes pictures, this app to create a unique t-shirt They are also useful for out-of-town Cantonese pronunciation, calorie – perfect for gifts or to express visitors to help them get around on content and more. yourself. their own.

• Tramways (iTunes and Google Play apps) This app offers colourful tram designs with information about stops and maps of the tram lines.

• Hong Kong Taxi Translator (iTunes and Google Play apps) This is a must-have street directory app for non-Cantonese speakers, which includes translations of street names, buildings and attractions, and displays them in an easy-to- show card format.

Summer 2014 35

• MTR Suite of apps (www.mtr.com. is often forgotten about by residents. • Pocket Lingo (iTunes app) hk; iTunes and Google Play apps) The Travel Kit section includes Available for Cantonese and Answer all of your MTR questions informative e-guidebooks that can Mandarin, this app contains more with apps including: Next Train, be downloaded and accessed offline, than 2,000 words and phrases with MTR Tourist, Traffic News, MTR and beautifully designed themed native-speaker audio. mobile and MTR Club. apps such as the Heritage Walks, Island Walks and City Walks. • Kids Learn Mandarin Free • HK eTransport (iTunes and Google Play apps) (www.hketransport.gov.hk; iTunes • Enjoy Hiking (www.hkwalkers.net; This app aims to help children and Google Play apps) iTunes and Google Play apps) learn and practise basic Mandarin This is an interactive public This comprehensive guide to hiking through play. transportation route-planning tool, in Hong Kong includes safety tips, including green minibuses. weather conditions, trail maps and • Pleco (iTunes and Google Play apps) equipment information. This is the go-to dictionary app that • EasyTaxi combines flashcards, audio, Chinese (iTunes and Google Play apps) • HK Movies characters and OCR (optical This instant taxi booking service is (iTunes and Google Play apps) character recognition), so you can available in 27 countries, including Find all of Hong Kong’s cinemas use your device’s camera to look up ours. Limit your arm-waving and in one place, with real-time seating characters. frustration by booking. availability and the option to purchase tickets. Meet and greet Out and about Meeting people in Hong Kong is not Visitors and residents alike will be • My Observatory (www.hko.gov.hk; difficult, and it’s especially easy to able to discover Hong Kong’s many iTunes and Google Play apps) meet like-minded people with one of popular and hidden sights with these The Hong Kong government’s most the city’s many networking groups. websites and apps. downloaded app features everything you need to know (and more) about • Hong Kong Moms • iDiscover CITY WALK (iTunes app) local meteorology. Facebook Group This series of two-hour walks – Chat with more than 10,000 which are fully functional off-line • Real time Air Quality Index members about just about every – is divided into five categories: iSee, (www.aqicn.org/city/hongkong; topic under the sun. iShop, iDrink, iEat and iSurprise. iTunes App and Android Widget) • GeoExpat and GeoBaby This useful tool displays pollution (www.geoexpat.com) • Discover Hong Kong levels across Hong Kong and other Bumps groups as well as general and (www.discoverhongkong.com; Chinese cities. niche social groups are on offer. e-guidebooks; suite of iTunes and • Little Steps Asia Google Play apps) Learn the language (www.littlestepsasia.com) The website of the Hong Kong While an app will not suffice if you’re The Bump Club helps connect Tourist Board is jam-packed with really looking to learn a new language expectant mums with similar due useful, up-to-date information and to fluency, these three apps are useful. dates.

Summer 2014 37 Playing in pollution Enduring Hong Kong’s suffocating, smog-filled skyline is one of the daily battles we face living in the city. But just how bad is the city’s air pollution? And what is its impact on our children? Rachel Jacqueline investigates.

ong Kong’s air pollution deaths and more than 400 is bad. Very bad. The hospitalisations occur each day in city’s air pollution is a the city as a devastating result of air poisonous cocktail of pollution. Hnitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, The “vertical city” is a victim particulate matters and ozone, and of its design: Hong Kong festers in is three times worse than New York, roadside emissions and regional smog two times worse than London and also as pollution gets trapped amongst the ranks behind Singapore and Tokyo in city’s many high-rises, particularly on terms of air quality. days with little wind. Only 50 days in 2013 were And it’s not getting better. registered as “clear” on a local While there has been some small pollution scale, the Hedley improvement in the reduction of Environmental Index. More particulate matters that travel deep shockingly, around nine preventable into our airways, noxious gases in the

38 Playtimes air are on the rise, says Professor Hak the Hedley Environmental Index and Kan Lai, a research assistant professor Emeritus Professor at the Hong Kong in epidemiology and biostatistics at University’s School of Public Health. the Hong Kong University’s School of “You could think of them as standards Public Health. for ‘safer air’, but I’m not going to call “Gas pollution, such as roadside them ‘safe’ as the criteria continues to emissions including nitrogen dioxides change the more we discover about the and sulphur dioxide, is getting worse ill effects of air pollution on the body,” every month. The result is that Hong he says. Kong’s air quality consistently exceeds “These events, where Hong the WHO guidelines by more than Kong’s pollution exceeds acceptable 300 per cent.” levels, occur on a daily basis,” laments The WHO guidelines don’t even Professor Hedley. “The effect is we’re represent “good quality air”, warns having a long-term, continuous, Professor Anthony Hedley, creator of high-level exposure to pollutant levels

Summer 2014 39 commonly known to be predictably the lungs and the immune system – immune systems that render them less injurious to the body.” meaning even just a few years in the able to handle toxic air pollutants. In summary, Professor Hedley city can impact your child’s health. “Given the fact they’re in a very says Hong Kong’s air “is not fit to rapid growth phase, this means that breathe”. Is it worse for kids? the growing cells, tissues and organs And for children, the picture is Children are still growing. Their are more readily influenced by certain even more worrisome. Exposure to bodily systems are immature in types of pollution,” explains Professor chronically high levels of air pollution comparison to adults: they have Hedley. early in a child’s development has a less efficient detoxification systems, Adjusting for body mass index, lasting, irreversible impact on several developing lungs that are more children have a higher respiratory biological systems such as the brain, permeable by pollutants, and weaker minute volume – the volume of gas

Summer 2014 41

Each pollutant affects the body in different ways. “Polluted air is actually a mixture of pollutants that may have common or specific effects,” explains Professor Ignatius Yu, head of occupational and environmental health at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Ozone, for example, which is soluble in the fluids that line the respiratory tract, has the ability to penetrate deeply into the area of the lungs responsible for vital gas exchange with the blood, resulting in breathing problems and possibly triggering asthma. Carbon dioxide, when inhaled, reacts rapidly with haemoglobin in the blood, preventing the uptake and transport of vital oxygen. Worse still, it hangs around in the blood for hours after exposure. Nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide suppress the immune system and place a child at an increased risk of respiratory infections. Some children, of course, are more susceptible to the harmful effects of air pollution than others. Those with underlying chronic lung disease, particularly asthma, are potentially at greater risk than those who don’t have such conditions. Overall, Professor Yu cautions that the long-term effect of air pollution on children is suffocating. “Inflammation reduces lung inhaled and exhaled from our lungs up in the lower airways. Add a child’s function,growth and a child’s cardio- per minute – than adults: 400 ml/ increased activity rate, where they pulmonary fitness. It reduces the min/kg compared with 150 ml/ take in more breaths per minute, and volume of oxygen the lungs can take in min/kg. the resultant exposure of the lungs to and breathe.” As children are also prone to air pollutants is even greater. mouth breathing due to enlarged When children are exposed to air To play, or not to play? adenoids, they lose the benefit of pollution, the lungs and cardiovascular It’s a terrible dilemma: we know nasal filtering, with the result system are the first to take a hit. children should exercise, but exercise that more air pollutants end “Every lungful of air laden with speeds their breathing and increases pollutants has the potential to cause the throughput of air through their damage to the tissues, which manifests airways. itself by causing inflammation,” “If children exercise in polluted explains Professor Hedley. air, they’re dumping more of this A child affected by exposure to air rather dangerous cocktail of particles pollution may have increased phlegm, and gasses into their body system at a appear wheezy and begin coughing. higher level than if they were leading In more severe cases, it can trigger a more sedentary lifestyle,” explains asthma, result in infections and even Professor Hedley. bring about a bronchitic reaction. Even Professor Lai struggles But in some children, the effects may to find a solution of ensuring his be silent, and not appear until many children, aged nine and five, get years later. enough exercise. “I am also worried…

Summer 2014 43

There are obviously beneficial effects where the pollution is not so bad and (CAN), suggests parents should also to exercise, but there are harmful move to Hong Kong when they’re keep an eye on the WHO standards, effects for exposure to air pollution.” older.” As that’s not possible for many, and make their own decisions. “Hong Playing in urban parks makes Professor Yu suggests regular holidays Kong citizens have no way of knowing little difference. “The residential to places with better quality air may how serious their level of exposure is locations in Hong Kong are densely give a child’s lungs a break. every day – the Government’s data is packed, so the positive impact of the But for those who don’t have not easily accessible and Hong Kong’s country parks are not felt,” explains the luxury of escaping the city, the air quality standards, called Air Professor Lai. “There is a lot of message is clear: reduce a child’s Quality Objectives (AQOs), are over overseas literature that finds proximity exposure to high-risk levels of air 25 years old and are severely lax and or distance from highways and traffic pollution, particularly when playing. outdated.” CAN issued an air quality- is very important... the closer you are Hong Kong issues the Air Quality mapping app, “HKCAN”, last year, the more exposure.” Health Index (AQHI) to indicate the which compares the city’s air pollution Moving children’s activities from state of the city’s air. The index is to the WHO standards and provides high-traffic areas to the trails of the based on the cumulative health risk a better overall picture than just the country parks may help, but it’s not attributable to the three-hour moving AQHI. enough, says Professor Hedley. “The average concentrations of high-risk air Keeping your child healthy and point is, people need to understand pollutants. nourishing them with a good diet that they’re making a compromise… According to a letter issued by will help to equip them with a strong the ambient levels of air pollution the Education Bureau to all schools immunity to battle the effects that some are extremely high across the whole in late 2013, children should reduce air pollutants have on the body – and territory.” their level of activity when the AQHI life in general. “We can’t say definitely As a compromise, Professor Lai measures 7 (“serious”) and above. By that there is a connection with stronger takes his children to play indoor AQHI 8, activities should be reduced immunity and [the ability to cope sports, like badminton and table to a minimum; in AQHI 10+, children better with] exposure to air pollution – tennis. should be kept indoors. pollution is pollution – but it may help, Yet, he admits: “Honestly? It’s However, Sum Yin Kwong, CEO of course, if your child is healthy and better for children to grow up in areas of Hong Kong’s Clean Air Network strong,” says Professor Yu.

Summer 2014 45 46 Playtimes Helping

haFor most of us living in Hong Kong, being dsable to employ a full- time, live-in helper is a luxury we wouldn’t be able to afford elsewhere. But, how do we incorporate another adult into the household, and what exactly do they do? Katrina Shute asks some Hongkongers to let us into their private worlds to find out.

Me, upon hiring my first here’s no doubt that difficult to imagine life without her. helper soon after moving to employing a helper affords Especially if you aren’t used to it, Hong Kong: a fabulous opportunity for having another person move in full- “Yippee! I’ve been liberated mums and dads to spend time can be a challenge. A sudden from the daily grind of Tmore time doing what they want, and lack of privacy, the feeling you’re being washing and cleaning up after less time on household chores. We can watched or judged on your parenting, my family of five.” have more productive time with our deciding what roles to hand over kids and each other, take up hobbies and what to continue doing yourself: and sports, or focus on careers, all these are all common dilemmas we Me, a few days later: the while coming home to a spotless face with this major change in the “Oh jeez! There’s another apartment. household. person living in my house But, as with any working Does she eat with us? Should I ALL THE TIME, and I’m relationship, this is one where it can ask about her personal life? Should just not sure how to manage take time to smooth out the bumps we take her on holiday with us? our relationship.” and become accustomed to a new What does everyone else do? Well, dynamic in the home. It took me we invited experienced Hong Kong several years – and, to be honest, mums to tell us how it works in their several helpers – before we found the households, and this is what they perfect fit for our family. Now, it’s told us.

Summer 2014 47 How would you describe your How do your children get on with If you could change your Q helper’s relationship with your Q your helper? Q relationship with your helper, family? Most of the respondents say would you? While an equal number of A their kids and helper are close. The good news? Most of us are A respondents said they were A happy with the status quo. very close or not at all close, the majority said they were somewhere 13% 3% in between. 7%

30% 57% 15% 90% 15%

70% 57% They like her and are happy to spend time with her, but they’re not concerned 90% No, I believe we are all comfortable when she’s not home. with the current relationship. 70% We’re friendly and occasionally chat 30% They love her. They spend a lot of 7% Yes, I sometimes think it would about personal matters, but not about time with her and miss her when she’s not be better if our relationship was less everything. home. personal. 15% We consider her a family member; 13% They are not close, but it has no effect 3% Yes, I would like it if we were closer we know most things about her life and on her ability to look after the children well. and got along a little better. vice versa. 15% We have a polite and professional “They have known her all their life and “I do not need a relationship with her relationship, and we don’t discuss they love her.” as such, just trust.” personal issues. “We communicate well and are very “Our helper is new with our family. open with each other and up front [The] previous one was with us over about everything.” ten years and we decided to be friendly, but more professional, this “The only change I’d like is with live- time.” in versus live-out. I think she would like more privacy and, ethically, I “We love her and respect her, believe she has the right to it; she but she is not my best friend or hopes they will change the law so family. I would feel weird having her that she can legally live out. I can wash, cook and clean for us if our understand this; I wouldn’t want to relationship was too close. Also, live with my boss either!” when I’m home, I just like to relax and not always have to be chatting.”

48 Playtimes Who cooks? Who does the grocery Where does your helper eat her Q Q shopping? Q meals? Almost half the respondents More than half of the While the vast majority of A make the most of having A respondents prefer to hit the A us eat separately from our someone else to do the cooking. grocery store themselves. helpers, there are a few families who all sit down together.

2% 5% 28% 18%

47% 52% 30% 25% 93%

47% My helper is a great cook and does 52% I mostly do the shopping, but 93% She rarely eats with us. She has her most of the cooking for our family. occasionally my helper will go to the store meals separately or with her friends who 28% We share the cooking equally, or for me. live nearby. my helper mainly cooks for the kids. 30% It’s about half/half: we share the 5% She mostly eats with us at the dinner 25% I do most of the cooking. I enjoy it, shopping duties equally. table. but it’s nice having some extra help in 18% My helper does most of the grocery 2% She occasionally eats with us, or the kitchen. shopping. I rarely need to go to the store. sometimes comes to help with the kids at a restaurant. “I usually do the cooking if we have “I like to choose the food my family people over for a dinner party, and eats. It’s not that I don’t trust her to “Who wants to share a meal with she helps. But, for everyday food, choose well; it’s just that I know I’m their boss? She would much rather she does most of the cooking.” fussier.” be with her friends and we’d much rather be with our friends and family.” “My husband and kids would probably walk out (and follow my “She eats different food and doesn’t helper) if I took over the cooking. want to, or like, eating with us.” Domestic goddess I am not!”

If you have young children, Q who handles bath time? More than half of the A respondents prefer to take on bathing themselves, although some are happy to hand the job over.

18%

57% 25%

57% I almost always bathe the kids. 25% We share bathing duties equally. 18% My helper usually does bath time.

“When my kids were little, my helper did it. My youngest hated the bath and I found it very stressful, so I cooked dinner instead!”

Summer 2014 49

Who does the school/bus Who takes your child to after- When you go on holiday, does Q drop-off and pick-up? Q school activities? Q your helper go with you? Well more than half of the More than half of the While most of the respondents A respondents prefer to drop off A respondents accompany their A prefer to go it alone, almost and collect the kids themselves. kids to their various activities. one in four will consider taking the helper along.

9% 5% 2% 22% 26% 32% 65% 63% 76%

65% I mostly drop off/pick up the kids. 63% I usually take the kids to all of their 76% We never bring our helper: it’s nice I ask my helper to do it only if I can’t after-school activities. for both of us to have a break from each make it in time. 32% We split the activities: my helper goes other. 26% We share the drop-off/pick-up with one child and I go with the other. 22% We occasionally bring her along if equally, depending on who’s available. 5% My helper takes the kids to almost all we know we’ll need the babysitting. 9% My helper typically does the drop-off/ of their after-school activities. 2% Yes, we almost always bring her pick-up. along for an extra pair of hands. “As I am working, I can’t take my kids “I always do the mornings and we to the activities during the week, but I “We need her to stay home to look share the afternoons.” always do on weekends.” after the dog and fish.”

“I like to be the one who gets my “We could not get our children to the “It’s my family time. I may have daughter off the bus after her long activities they do without a helper.” considered it had my children been day at school, as I know it’s me she younger when we arrived, but now I wants to see.” don’t really need the help.”

Summer 2014 51 S tay s h arp this

Keeping your brain fit over the summer break doesn’t have to be a bore or a chore, summerwrite Olivia Hungerford and Eleanor Smallwood.

he summer holidays are doing over the summer, no matter the holidays. Or, for the more here – the time for your what age. Top of this list is to continue adventurous gamers, building your children to throw off their reading. Whether here or overseas, own board game as a family can school uniforms and not find out about your local library, if be lots of fun. Get the children to Tgive learning another thought until you haven’t already, and make time work together leading the strategy the new school year. Or is it? to visit it, explore the books that are for developing the rules, name and The school holidays should on offer and discover new genres of purpose of the game and designing always be fun and a way for kids to writing. Encourage your children how it is going to look and work. relax and refresh after a long year of to read independently, but also try Writing letters and postcards studying. But, like a muscle, the more to read some more advanced books over the long holidays not only keeps you use your brain, the stronger it together. Remember that a huge your children writing and their gets. It needs constant exercising to part of reading is talking about what penmanship in check, but will also stay in shape. As tutors, we often find you are discovering, enjoying or be a wonderful relative-pleaser! Even that our students come back after the questioning in the book. Engage your if you aren’t travelling abroad this long summer holidays with flabbier children by asking questions about summer, your children can keep in brains and it can then take some time the characters and story, and guide touch with their school friends and to rebuild the strength. them to look at the style of writing family by writing from Hong Kong But, fear not: We don’t need and to think about deeper meanings. and sending postcards that they can daily maths drills or to memorise the We Hongkongers are so media- design themselves. complete works of Shakespeare to stay saturated that sitting down quietly Remember to make the most of brain-fit over the summer. Instead, with a book and then discussing it is a situations. If you are going on holiday there are lots of wonderful, fun ways great way to unplug. abroad, encourage your children to to keep the brain active that won’t Board games are brilliant at research the culture, food, language even feel like work! building skills like strategising, and history of your destination. They cooperating and interpreting can even put together a presentation Activities for every brain instructions, so bring out the to give to the family before you leave. There are plenty of activities and Monopoly, Scrabble and Articulate! If you are going to a museum or an exercises that we hope every child is and play with your children over exhibition, they can read a book

52 Playtimes Summer 2014 53 about the era of history or a particular Smart ideas artist. If you are going to see a movie, Try one of these to get your child’s summer off to a smart start. they can become a film critic, or if you are eating out, have them design their own recipes or become the family’s For little learners (ages two to five years) restaurant critic. Exercise is good for the brain as • Cut out pictures and words from well as the body; it stimulates blood old magazines to make a themed flow and encourages good sleep, so get wall collage. It could focus on out into the fresh air. animals, food, vehicles or be an Hong Kong offers lots of summer inspiration wall for all the things camps. We run a popular workshop they’d like to do this summer series for kids aged two to 13 that – whatever inspires your little specialises in giving their brains a learner. workout while they are learning and • Gather a group of friends, collect trying new skills. Consider signing up saucepans, dried pasta in jars, for our programme or one of the many empty food tins and anything others listed in last month’s issue of this else you can imagine to make a magazine. junk percussion orchestra. See museum, find as many different if you can get everyone playing objects as you can that begin together to make a recognisable with a chosen letter or sound. Olivia Hungerford and Eleanor Smallwood tune. This seems to be a hit with • Cooking projects are always are the founders of British Tutors, a company boys particularly, although it popular and are great for which brings the highest standard of academic makes for a noisy afternoon! developing motor skills in tuition to homes in Hong Kong. The British • To keep little ones thinking younger children, and for Tutors Summer Workshop Series runs about their phonics and reading, understanding and following all summer long with a wide variety of make a sound shopping list. instructions with tangible (and programmes on offer. Learn more at When walking around a store or enjoyable!) results. www.britishtutors.com.

Summer 2014 55

For mini explorers (ages five to nine years) For older kids (ages eight to 13 years)

• At the start of the summer, buy your mini explorer • Encourage your kids to set up a mini a big scrapbook. Over the course of the holidays, enterprise at home – they could make, encourage them to document their activities with market and sell greeting cards or photos, ticket stubs and leaflets and to annotate it homemade ice cream to ward off the Hong with their thoughts and illustrations. It’ll make for a Kong heat. wonderful memento of the summer of 2014. • Have them become a magazine editor, • Choose a theme for the summer – perhaps the designing their own summer publication. country that you are visiting, a particular author They could start by choosing their topic, that they are reading at the moment or even their then designing a layout, writing articles favourite food. Create a project on the topic of and finding pictures to illustrate. Interested interest, researching it online, with interviews, friends can be contributors. books and films. Keep it varied by encouraging • Encourage them to keep a holiday journal to them to include facts and figures alongside write in every day. Have them read famous drawings, poems and photographs. diarists like Anne Frank or Samuel Pepys • Set up a treasure hunt, in your apartment, garden and think about how to tell the story of their or across the whole of Hong Kong. Your mini daily life using different writing styles. explorer can create their own treasure map, clues • Have them write, produce and direct their and the treasure itself and ask their friends or own short film. From creating the story siblings to participate. to finding locations, costumes and the • Head down to Pottinger Street and buy some fun cast, this is a great project with minimal costumes and props as the starting point for a equipment needed; they can use your home drama production, written, directed by and iPhone or iPad as the camera and to starring your kids. edit. get your holiday

bookedIf you’re looking for something meaty and worthwhile – and appropriate for your daughter to read, too – here are my top picks for the summer, writes Erica Lyons.

s a word of warning, this they are and how important their article is extremely biased voices can be. and opinionated. As a While Malala’s story takes place in general rule, I won’t read Pakistan, the book tells her story of how Aanything with the words princess or she faced the Taliban. In the fictional, popular in the title (with the exception, My Name is Parvana, the now-15-year- of course, of the classic The Little old protagonist lives in post-Taliban Princess). My 11-year-old daughter has Afghanistan. This inspiring story is now adopted the same philosophy actually the sequel to The Breadwinner and, while it is possible that we have Trilog y. I highly recommend all of the missed out on some greats with titles Deborah Ellis series. like How to Be the Most Popular and Pretty Princess, it is a calculated risk that we Prolific and profound are both willing to take. While summer reading is meant We did make an exception for a to be enjoyable, it can still be well- princess-y title: Chinese Cinderella: The written; the two need not be mutually Secret Story of an Unwanted Daughter by exclusive. Through our Mother- Adeline Yen Mah. I love memoir and Daughter Book Club, which I wrote this book is a great read for young about in the March issue of Playtimes, women and mothers as well. It is a I am discovering/rediscovering that tragic tale but it is beautifully written. there are many books that are equally I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up enjoyable for both the pre-teen set as for Education and was Shot by the Taliban well as their parents. There’s currently by Malala Yousafzai with Christina a trend in the genre of young adult Lamb is another memoir to add to literature towards “crossover” novels the list. This is a must-read. Malala – books written for teens, but also is an incredible young woman with a marketed to adults. I have found many story that must be heard, for there are books for an even younger audience many who will never have the chance for which the same holds true. to tell their stories. It’s important that If you remember one name to our girls understand how fortunate add to your summer reading list, it

58 Playtimes Summer 2014 59 should be John Green. The Fault in Our Asian protagonists, and I also love other books in this series are likewise Stars is my absolute favourite (as well multi-cultural characters. Outside recommended (Forge and Chains). as my daughter’s). A word of caution Beauty is a wonderful story of a for parents of younger children: this terribly complicated and extremely Nostalgic and noteworthy book is incredibly heart-breaking. non-traditional family. Also on your No list could be complete without a bit It is the story of a 16-year old and a Kadohata list, I would add A Million of nostalgia added in for the mums. community of teens battling terminal Shades of Gray (not to be confused with I will date myself here by saying I illness while also learning to love. a similar adult title of many fewer assume that we all grew up with Judy You can’t go wrong with any of John shades of grey and one million fewer Blume books. Blume is definitely an Green’s books. shades of depth and intelligence). author to revisit with you children. I There is nothing better than Kira-Kira is also a wonderful read. recently repurchased a copy of Blubber, reading a book and falling in love Kadohata is another one of those which has been, I believe unfairly, with it, and then realising that the authors whose works you’ll find criticised of late. Contemporary author has written a host of great yourself picking up one after another, reviewers seem bothered that there books. This certainly holds true for enjoying every one. doesn’t seem to be a sense of justice for Blubber, I mean Linda. Let’s be realistic: life isn’t always fair. This book is an excellent segue into a discussion about bullying with your teen, which we know is as relevant today as when Blume wrote it in the 1970s. Deenie is next on our Blume list and I am looking forward to rereading it, as it is always an entirely new experience revisiting these books as a parent. And while there are, of course, many great new books out there, I again am often nostalgic for the books of my childhood. I have been successful in introducing many of these to my daughter and her friends. A clear favourite is the Five Little Peppers series by Margaret Sidney. These books were among my own mother’s favourites as a child as well, and there is something beautiful about passing on a love for a particular book among generations. The books were actually first published in 1881 and they have stood the test of time. Begin with The Five Little Peppers and How They Grew, the first in the series. If you haven’t read these yourself, you must. They are heart-warming and seriously addictive. Joan Bauer. We read Almost Home, Laurie Halse Anderson is yet While I hope you’ll have plenty followed by Hope Was Here. If you are another author with a list of must- of time for lounging on the beach, going to pick just one, I would suggest read books. I highly recommend spending sun-filled days with friends Hope Was Here. This is a wonderful Fever 1793, part of The Seeds of America and family and exploring new sites, a story of starting over. Hope has even Trilog y. I am a huge fan of historical well-planned reading list for you and given herself a new name. The story fiction generally and this is a well- your daughter is the perfect addition immediately pulls the reader in and it researched novel about the epidemic to your summer holiday plans. It is is filled with beautiful characters. It is that decimated Philadelphia in the chance to create your own private a story that you won’t want to see end. 1793. It is a window into a period of mother-daughter book club and to Another name to add to the history very different from our own keep their minds active and learning, list of great and prolific writers is and will undoubtedly pique your without having it feel like homework. Cynthia Kadohata. First of all, I child’s interest to learn more about The summer is about fun. Reading am a bit of a sucker for books with history and that period of time. The together is, too.

Summer 2014 61 Macau for minis

62 Playtimes More than just a playground for grown-ups, this nearby city presents a quick and easy destination for family fun, no visas required, writes Nicole Webb.

Summer 2014 63

ince it’s appropriately nick- Portuguese colony is on a mission to enjoyed the fact that a one-hour boat named “Las Vegas of the reinvent itself as a place not just for ride was far less taxing on both bub East”, you’d be forgiven for high-rollers, but for those who like a and us than battling a wave of airport thinking Macau is no more bit of forward-roll action, too. chaos and an unpredictable plane ride. S(or less) than a glitzy gambling mecca You can catch a ferry from Hong – the perfect playground for keen Family fun Kong to Macau around the clock and, punters and party-goers. If you want somewhere away from unless it’s a holiday, there’s usually no And you wouldn’t be completely the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong need to book. Ferries run from the wrong. Home to 36 casinos (and for a quick, revitalising escape, there’s China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha counting) and earning more revenue potentially more to Macau than meets Tsui and from the Shun Tak Ferry than Las Vegas, this tiny pocket in the eye. In fact, as a mum to a hyped- Terminal in Sheung Wan. At both, Asia’s South East is a force to be up three-year-old, until last month I’d you’ll find a myriad of kiosks selling reckoned with. never actually been to Macau on an tickets for around $160 (prices vary But, it’s not all about poker adults-only trip. slightly depending on the time of day). machines and blackjack. The kids can It’s been one of our destinations of Although you won’t need a visa to get in on the action, too, without even choice since Ava was just two months travel to Macau, you will need your mentioning the “G” word. This former old. Outfitted with our Baby Björn, we passport, unless you are a Permanent Resident. Don’t be bamboozled by the number of ferry ticket offices, but do make sure you know whether your hotel is nearer the Macau or Taipa terminal so you choose the most efficient ferry for you. But, even if you get that mixed up, both terminals have complimentary shuttle busses to and from most hotels.

Hotel options abound Speaking of accommodation, if you want to spend your days lazing around a luxurious hotel pool, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Macau. Being married to an hotelier, we usually go with Starwood options, but that hasn’t stopped me from checking out the competition. These days, it’s all about the Cotai Strip. Across town from old Macau in Taipa, this hotspot is buzzing with enough energy for the whole family. Most of the hotels in this area are completely geared up for kids. I’ve spent time at the Sheraton Macau – one of the largest hotels in the world, with just under 4,000 rooms. Upon check-in, you could be forgiven for thinking you’d arrived at an airport. The kids will love the vibrancy of this humming resort. Think of it as a theme park on steroids! Step inside, though, and all is calm. With three outdoor pools flanked by private cabanas, you’ll be hard-pressed to want for more (cocktails, anyone?). On the weekends, kids can enjoy poolside movie nights and a Shrekfast character breakfast

Summer 2014 65 with photo opportunities for the kids There’s a golf course, the Westin Kids these amazing mini adventure lands, to get up close and personal with Club, an outdoor playground on lovely and stay tuned for details. their favourite friends. Even if you’re green grass, and swimming pools You can’t leave Macau without not staying at the Sheraton, this is surrounded by deckchairs – perfect for seeing what’s been lauded as one of available to all guests staying on the kid-spotting. the best shows on earth. The House of strip. The famous Portuguese restaurant Dancing Water is simply breathtaking There’s also a DreamWorks Fernandos is just a stroll down the from start to finish. While I wouldn’t character parade each day at 3pm, beach – a beach which may be a little recommend it for the littlies, kids over which winds through the massive disappointing if you’re expecting a ten will be mesmerised along with complex that makes up the Sheraton, white, sandy stretch, but is nonetheless Mum and Dad. Conrad and Holiday Inn. a tranquil spot. The Macau Science Centre gets Opposite that collection of a thumbs up, too. It’s interactive and resorts, you’ll find the Italian-inspired All about the kids great for both parents and children. Venetian, with its grand canals and While the casinos are notably present, The location at Fisherman’s Wharf is gondolas weaving through a lavish they’re not to be outdone by several not bad either. And if you’re keen to shopping centre. Emerging from playrooms for the small people. The inject a bit of history into your Macau the rubble next door is the Parisian. Venetian houses the Qube – a kids’ adventure, the A Ma Temple is the Standing tall will be a replica of the play zone that’s open from 9:30am to city’s oldest and most revered temple. Eiffel Tower, predicted to be half the 9:30pm. Qube has something for kids Let the kids explore to their heart’s height of the real thing. This French- of all ages, including teens, who will content. themed hotel complex will also have enjoy video games and a pool hall. I’ve also uncovered a secret spot an interactive pool/play area, which Up the road, City of Dreams has Kids’ from my local insider – mum’s the promises the works. But you’ll have City, which re-opened last year after word, OK? Located at Cheoc Van to wait: the opening is currently a revamp, with an interactive indoor Beach in Coloane, tucked away from scheduled for December 2015. playground and entertainment area. the chaos, kids can play freely and Then there’s the Westin Macau It could also be worth stopping by the parents can eat at La Gondola, an perched at the very end of the Cotai Vquarium while you’re there, where open deck restaurant with the kids Strip on Hac San Beach. With young wee ones might enjoy watching the a stone’s throw away. Bookings are children, it’s always been my pick, giant virtual mermaids swim by. essential, as locals like it, too. where you can step out of the neon Just between you, me and the Who said you can’t bet on Macau spotlight and into a Mediterranean gatepost, my well-connected sources as a family holiday destination? A hideaway. Yes, it’s definitely a little tell me the Sheraton, Venetian, one-hour ferry ride, accommodation frayed around the edges – don’t Conrad, Holiday Inn and soon- options for all kinds of travellers expect modern chic – but all that can to-open St. Regis are developing a and budgets, and lots of kid-friendly be overlooked when your room has “KidZania”. If you’re unfamiliar with attractions make this the perfect quick a balcony the size of a large patio. KidZania, Google it to learn about escape.

Summer 2014 67 Strawberry fields We headed out to the Strawberry Farm in Tai Po and picked some District (Look for the big yellow sign strawberries. They were deliciously ripe and organic and we ended up with showing strawberry picking on the two full boxes! I made a healthy strawberry cordial with fresh basil and black right-hand side, just after the BBQ peppercorns. Serve these up for guests, mixed with sparkling mineral water. King). Or, the closest MTR stop is They also look very pretty at any gathering and kids love the taste. You can Tai Po Market on the East Rail Line. find the recipe on our blog. From there, take KMB bus 75K, or a Getting there: We drove to the Strawberry Farm, which is next door to green New Territories taxi. There are the Tai Mei Tuk BBQ King on the right hand side off Ting Kok Road in Tai Po plenty of signs, so it’s easy to find. Artistic See the city from the eyes of two Australian creatives, who have found beauty in the most unusual places. vision Words & styling Ingrid Keneally I Photography & styling Belinda Bath

We love bamboo Bamboo is a symbol of longevity. For a wonderful selection of natural bamboo Shanghai Street in Kowloon pieces, here’s where to go: Tuck Chong Sum Kee Bamboo Steamer Company, has plenty of bamboo shops as well G/F, 12 Western Street, Sai Ying Pun (2559 7765), is our favourite. Manager – you can’t miss the high-stacked Raymond Lam still hand-makes the bamboo steamers. The bins and shelves displays of bamboo steamers. at the front of the store have plenty of chopsticks, trays, fans, tongs and Inside these specialist bamboo biscuit moulds at very reasonable prices. stores, you can shop for strong Siu Woo Trading Company, 1/F, 94 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan (2544 seating with that resort-at-home 2049), has always had big and small bamboo trays arranged around its shop feel that instantly looks better fronts – make sure you check out the bamboo hats as well. when you move it out of the shop.

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Pretty ribbons Isn’t it a joy to have a box or drawer filled with pretty ribbons? Whenever I wander into a specialty ribbon store, I am driven to grab a handful of sweet brocades and classic grosgrains. But how do you use them in your home? They can be hung side by side as parallel decorations, or used as trims for bed linens and curtains. I’ve even hung smaller paintings with stronger ones, and they transform a simple brown parcel into a work of art. Nam Cheong Street and Yu Chau Street in Sham Shui Po are the best places to go for decorative ribbons. Hashimotoya, G/F, Shop A, 110 Nam Cheong Street, Sham Shui Po (3173 5678), is a great shop to pick up satin, cotton and velvet ones. Flying Dragon, G/F, Shop D, 213-217 Yu Chau Street, Sham Shui Po (2708 2528), is good for grosgrain and taffeta. I sometimes get Wing Fung Industrial to print special messages on ribbons – things like Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday and Bon Voyage. Wing Fung Industrial, Shops A & B, G/F, 201-207 Yu Chau Street, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon (2278 8255).

Chinese wooden biscuit moulds Belinda got her love of freshly baked treats from her mother, who always made her own biscuits and cakes. In my childhood, too, there were rarely packaged sweets, so these biscuit moulds appeal to our love of freshly baked goodies. Hong Kong is filled with such winning moulds for cooking in. Two top favourites for baking goods are WoodWork Professor, G/F, 335- 339 Shanghai Street, Yau Ma Tei (2332 2443), www.woodwork- professor.com; and New Chun Fat, 277 Shanghai Street, Yau Ma Tei (2388 5318).

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The beautiful birdcage The range of birdcages in Hong Kong is astounding: there are ones taller than I am, round and temple-shaped and bamboo ones handcrafted to perfection. An empty one makes for an unusual standalone feature piece. Don’t forget to grab a few of the hand- painted porcelain water dishes – I’m not sure what you can do with them yet, but they do look so pretty. If you head to the Bird Market at Yuen Po Street, Mong Kok, you can see man and bird walking side by side. The elderly Chinese men preen their feathered friends while chatting or playing mahjong with their friends. For a ceramic birdcage, head to Wah Tung China Arts, 16/F, Cheung Fat Building, 7-9 Hill Road, Western District (2873 2272). Hang them or perch them on a shelf and place an arrangement of tea-light candles in them at night. Artland Gallery, G/F, 55A Peel Street, Central, specialises in vintage bamboo birdcages that are true objects of art.

If you’d like to see more, visit www.stylebriefhongkong.com, or find them on Facebook and Instagram at stylebriefhongkong.

Summer 2014 73 Charlie wears pale blue t-shirt with detail, $830, and denim Bermuda shorts, $1,330, both from Bonpoint. Kennedy wears floral classic dress with smocking detail, $400, Little Mercerie. Crochet bag, $830, Bonpoint. Riley wears crochet dress, $2,220, Bonpoint; with pale pink cotton cardigan, $430, Juliet & the Band.

74 Playtimes COLOUR Summer 2014 Summer Inspired by the block colours of our background, we created a clean and cheerful collection of clothes to celebrate the fun summer ahead. Words & styling Ingrid Keneally I Photography Melanie Adamson I Models Charlie, Chase, Kennedy & Riley I Location Melanie Adamson Photography Studio, Aberdeen 75 my day Kennedy wears mauve skirt with lace detail, $290, and t-shirt with silver trim, $200, both from Juliet & the Band. Riley wears cotton scarf, $430, Bonpoint; white shorts with gold detail, $270, Juliet & the Band; and white short- sleeve top with lace, $300, Little Mercerie.

76 Playtimes Chase wears pale blue cotton polo, $1,175, and white Bermuda shorts, $1,045, both from Bonpoint.

Summer 2014 77 Chase wears Imps & Elfs t-shirt with detail, $360, Atelier de Paris; and white Bermuda shorts, $1,045, Bonpoint. Kennedy wears smock top, $300, Juliet & the Band; with blue shorts, $1,175, Bonpoint. Charlie wears blue and white stripe button shirt, $300, and white shorts, $300, both from Juliet & the Band.

78 Playtimes Summer 2014 79 Kennedy wears blue cotton shorts, $1,175, with Liberty print blouse, $1,230, both from Bonpoint

80 Playtimes Chase wears blue and white stripe cotton shirt, $300, Juliet & the Band; with Imps & Elfs skinny jeans, $690, Atelier de Paris. Riley wears floral all-in-one, $320, Little Mercerie. Straw hat with grey and white star detail, $290, Atelier de Paris.

Summer 2014 81 Emerging markets There’s a world of foods to explore in Hong Kong, but you need to step beyond the supermarket, writes Sharon Maloney.

Photos: Sharon Maloney

f you’re a newcomer to Hong Kong, vegetables and fruits being sourced standing at the entrance to a food locally or just over the border. market is a daunting prospect. The Interesting condiments and spices, Icacophony of noise, the effluvium a wider selection of unusual vegetables from fish and meat stalls, the dirt, and and fruits and exotic ingredients are the sheer vitality of activity going on all waiting to be found. Seasonality is can seem chaotic and, at times, violent. important, and people will shop every However, don’t be put off by it. You are day, buying only what they need for the standing in one of the city’s most exciting day’s meals, keeping their diet varied food and shopping experiences. and healthy. What you may find in the markets If you fear your lack of Cantonese is far and away more exciting than will hamper you, rest easy. Many expat anything in a supermarket, usually friends have got by easily by just pointing. at a fraction of the cost and with far Knowing your numbers, weight and less environmental impact, with most money in Cantonese will help you

82 Playtimes considerably, but most market people have enough English to converse with you. It is worth taking the time to talk to stall owners, both to find out where they source their produce and also to build a relationship with them. Many stallholders are influenced by their customers’ food habits and trends, and will happily try to help source what you need. Now, here’s a bit of guidance to help you navigate your adventure.

Greengrocers This is where you will find a wider and fresher selection of vegetables and fruits on offer. Often, fruit and vegetables are sold together, though some stalls are will sell only one or the other. Fruit stalls will often do fresh juices and fruit salad boxes to take away. Expect to see more exotic offerings, like rambutan, jackfruit, lotus root, lily bulbs and burdock, as well as more common ones such as choi sum, kale and bak choi. Fresh tofu and herbs are also on offer. If you are buying root vegetables, many grocers will peel them for you. Find a greengrocer that you like and build a good relationship with them. You might find they will throw in extras like fresh herbs and ginger at no extra cost.

Many stallholders have established (live fish). A selection of fresh water fish relationships with local farms and, and seafood is typically available. If you capitalising on current food trends, are looking for something big – such organic farms are now doing a booming as a fresh duck or rack of ribs – order business. in advance and arrange to pick it up, typically the next day. Fishmongers and butchers This is where wet markets got their name, Barbecue meat stalls with the markets frequently getting Most wet markets and street markets a hose-down to keep them clean – will have at least two barbecue meat particularly the fish and meat sections. stalls and restaurants, where you can These are ubiquitous and it is worth grab a plate of roast duck or pork with getting to know one or two from whom rice for lunch, and take home a box of you can source your meat and fish. Meat barbecued meat (and rice) for your is bought by price or weight, and seafood dinner. Here you will find the famous is bought by portion, weight or whole Cantonese BBQ pork, roast duck, goose

Summer 2014 83 and pork, various spicy sausages, cooked salted duck eggs and stewed bits and pieces (innards like tongue, gizzard, liver). Buy your meat according to your budget, i.e. $20 of char siu, roast pork, etc. This is a great time-saver for families, and great to take on summer junk trips for sharing.

Frozen meat stalls These shops sell all kinds of frozen and marinated raw meat and meat balls (ready for barbecuing or hot pot). Many adventurous or looking for a gift for a utensils, crockery and cutlery, to woks, source great-quality, frozen, organic foodie friend, this is a great place to pots, pans and baking items, not to meat and seafood from New Zealand, source something interesting. mention all and sundry for the rest of the US, Australia and Brazil. I buy great your home. Hooks, curtain rails, cheap bacon and duck – of far better quality Noodle shops shelving, bathroom fittings, light bulbs, than that on offer in the supermarkets – These shops are a rare sight, so if you see jars, sewing accessories and more can from my local frozen meat shop. Some one, don’t miss out on the opportunity to all be found here, considerably cheaper even stock game, such as venison. explore. They are, sadly, dying out. But, in than at Ikea. these shops, you can find dried and fresh Dried goods stalls noodles of all kinds, including handmade These are a veritable treasure trove of and hand-cut rice and egg noodles of To find your closest market, go to the exciting tinned goods and pots and jars different thicknesses, and fried tofu. Hong Kong Government website: of condiments, sauces, spices, dried http://www.fehd.gov.hk/english/ fungi and beans, duck eggs, preserved Household shops pleasant_environment/tidy_market/ vegetables, teas, dried noodles and These shops sell everything you’d need Markets_CFC_list.php packets of pasta. If you’re feeling to prepare your meals, from cooking

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Local flavour Once you’ve sourced your ingredients from the local market, here’s how to use them to make easy and delicious family-friendly meals, writes Sharon Maloney. You might even get your kids involved in the cooking!

Duck and Asian Coleslaw Tacos

Ingredients For the tacos: • $50 worth of roasted duck from BBQ meat shop

1 •  3 head of purple cabbage, shredded finely • 1 carrot, peeled and sliced thinly • 1 small cucumber, peeled and sliced thinly • ½ an onion, peeled and sliced thinly • 8 small, soft flour tortillas (I use Old El Paso)

For the coleslaw dressing: • 3 Tbsp mirin (Japanese rice vinegar) • 1 Tbsp wasabi mayonnaise (Del Monte makes a good one that you can buy in the supermarket. Or, make your own by combining ½ tsp of wasabi paste with 1 Tbsp mayonnaise.) • 2 Tbsp pure sesame oil • 2 tsp light soy sauce • 1 heaped tsp of fried garlic pieces (Jarred garlic is available from supermarkets.)

Method • Get your kids involved: With their fingers, they can pull the duck meat from the bone and tear it into small pieces. Place it on a small plate. • In a large bowl, toss the vegetables. • Mix the dressing ingredients together and pour over the vegetables. Let it stand for about 10 minutes. • To prepare the tortillas, heat a small non-stick pan on low, and heat each tortilla for a minute or so on one side before sliding out onto a plate. • Everyone can then roll their own tacos filled with duck and coleslaw.

Stir-fried Prawns rinsed well and Garlic Stems • 1 bundle of garlic stems or garlic Garlic stems and chives are available chives, washed and chopped into from greengrocers and supermarkets in 5cm (2”) lengths the summer months and come as a long • Salt and pepper for seasoning bundle. Garlic stems are paler in colour – a light yellow-green – while garlic chives Method are very dark green, with a small flower • In a large wok, on high heat, fry the bud at the end. garlic with a little oil until it starts sizzling. • Throw in the prawns and garlic stems Ingredients and toss well. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, • 1 Tbsp oil, for frying until the prawns are pink and cooked. • 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced Larger prawns might need more time. • 500 grams of prawns, washed and • Season and serve.

Banana, Cinnamon and chips and cinnamon. Chocolate Spring Rolls • Get your kids involved with wrapping the rolls: Turn each wrapper on its point, Ingredients place a good heaped teaspoon of • ½ pack of spring roll wrappers (there mixture at the bottom corner. Roll up are usually around 30 per pack.) tight, pausing to tuck the left and right • 2 bananas, chopped into small pieces side in before sealing the top corner • 100g semisweet chocolate chips with egg white wash and folding over • ½ tsp cinnamon powder the rest of the spring roll. • Egg white wash or water to seal the • In a shallow non-stick pan, add a few spring rolls tablespoons of vegetable oil and • Vegetable oil, for frying gently fry each spring roll on all sides. • They’re ready to eat, but I recommend Method serving them with vanilla ice cream, • Carefully separate the layers of spring too. roll wrappers. If you’re not careful, Note: You can also freeze the spring rolls they’ll tear. before you fry them, so they’ll be ready • Combine the bananas, chocolate when you need them. stockists

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BOOKAZINE | www.bookazine.com.hk TOYS CLUB | www.itoysclub.com Basement, Canton House, 54-56 Queen’s Road, Central 2521 1649 5/F, On Hing Building, 1 On Hing Terrace, Central 2167 8474 Shop 3022, Level 3, ifc mall, Central 2295 0056 1913, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau 2836 0875 Stall E and F, Discovery Bay Pier, Discovery Bay 2987 1373 Shop 309, 10 Chater Road, Landmark Prince’s Building, Central 2522 1785 TOYS“R”US | www.toysrus.com.hk Shop 117, Shui On Centre, 6-8 Harbour Road, Wan Chai 2802 4932 3/F, Citiplaza, Taikoo Shing 2569 2388 Man Yee Building, 67 Queen’s Road, Central 2259 9166 BUMPS TO BABES | www.bumpstobabes.com 7/F, Windsor House, 311 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay 2881 1728 Unit 2114-18, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau 2552 5000 Shop 23, 2/F, Aberdeen Centre, Site 2, Aberdeen 2518 7128 5/F, Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central 2522 7112 OTG23, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui 2730 9462 Shop G01, Olympian City 3, West Kowloon 2884 3268 JULIET & THE BAND | julietandtheband.com Level 1, Commercial Centre, Discovery Park, Tsuen Wan 2940 1968 Studio 852, 11D, Kwai Bo Industrial Building, Tuen Mun Towne Plaza, Phase 2, Shop 2196, Tuen Mun 2430 0268 40 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen 9507 3110 New Town Plaza III, Shop A198-A199, Level 1, Sha Tin 2605 2225 Festival Walk, Shop L2-02, 80 Tatchee Avenue, Kowloon Tong 2265 7933 LITTLE MERCERIE | www.little-mercerie.com MegaBox, Units 2 & 5, Level 8, Kowloon Bay 2629 5186 15 Aberdeen Street, Central 2539 7722 Shop B24A-B33, Site 11, Whampoa Garden, Hung Hom 2356 2688 G/F, 75 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai Metro City Plaza 2, Tseung Kwan O 3194 6399

Editorial deadline: 11 August Booking deadline: 15 August Coming in Artwork deadline: 18 August September DIY She’s crafty A whole new crafting culture has hit Hong Kong. Shop talk Sites like Taobao and Etsy offer unique options. Built to code Kids are taking the programming world by storm. Home remedies Treat it at home, or call the doctor? Get the facts.

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92 Playtimes Summer 2014 93 94 Playtimes Summer 2014 95 sky the At home in We live in the world’s most vertical city, says father-of-three Nury Vittachi.

ong Kong has two seasons: Too Hot and Too that some property developers skip 13 and 14, so floor Cold. My office has the same two seasons on numbers jump straight from 12 to 15. I’m told this fools the a shorter cycle. Too Cold runs Monday to Bad Luck Gods, who cannot count. So how did they get to Friday, while Too Hot runs every weekend, be gods? Is there no entry exam?!!! Hwhen air conditioners are switched off to save cash. Once I had to go to an address described as being on I like the fact that Hong Kong is reckoned to be the “Level Two” of Festival Walk shopping mall, a building world’s most vertical city, despite the fact that I often which has 82 escalators (not a joke). I arrived at the find myself sharing a lift lobby with a group of primitive, basement car park and went up ten floors (including “the uncivilised Neanderthals. upper level of the Lower Ground (No offence intended to Level Mezzanine”) before reaching Neanderthals.) I didn’t touch the Level Two. I swear this is true. 1) They press the Up button to ground for days on And, of course, there was tell the elevator where they want to the Hong Kong developer who go AND the Down button to tell the end. It was like being deliberately mis-numbered the levels lift to come down and get them. of his building so he could advertise 2) Every few seconds, they at college without the property for sale on the lucky 66th repeat the process to make the lift illegal substances. and 88th floors of a 46-storey come faster. block. It would take A LOT of 3) Each person who arrives persuasion to get me to hand over performs the same two actions to my life savings for the 88th floor of a make the dumb lift realise that a 46-storey block. crowd is building up so it should get I once told someone from a @#$%ing move on. Europe about how Hong Kong has When the lift finally arrives, multiple fake ground levels, and he our community’s most popular got excited, seeing it as a solution team sport starts spontaneously. to “turf wars” around the world. Team A has to force its way into “Hong Kong developers could pave the lift, while Team B has to force over Israel and Palestine and re-label its way out. I don’t complain about everything so that the whole place this. It’s the only exercise I get. has multiple ground layers,” he said. The other day, I heard a Nice idea, but I find people other Singaporean air traveller boasting than East Asians like to keep old that he had once survived a structures as they are. For example, Singapore to Newark flight: 19 if something ancient like Stonehenge hours in an economy class seat. was stolen, Westerners would weep. I one-upped him by boasting that I was once in the But we in Hong Kong would say: “That old thing? Better air for 136 hours non-stop. It was true. Hong Kong has they make a new one, and this time they can build in a more raised walkways than any other city on earth, and I shopping mall and a McDonald’s.” It’s the Hong Kong way. used to work in a building linked by walkway to my home Now, if you’ll excuse me, it’s time to go home and I and TWO shopping malls. I didn’t touch the ground for need to go press the lift button 10,000 times to make it days on end. It was like being at college without the illegal come and get me faster. substances. The downside of losing touch with Mother Earth is Nury welcomes your comments at www.mrjam.org.

96 Playtimes