GATHERING China S Smokers Turn to Vaping STEAM’

GATHERING China s Smokers Turn to vaping STEAM’

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城市漫步国内统一刊号: 珠三角英 that's guangzhou that's shenzhen CN 11-5234/GO SEPTEMBER 2017 文版9月份

that’s PRD 《城市漫步》珠江三角洲英文月刊

主管单位 : 中华人民共和国国务院新闻办公室 Supervised by the State Council Information Office of the People's Republic of China 主办单位 : 五洲传播出版社地址 : 北京西城月坛北街 26 号恒华国际商务中心南楼 11 层文化交流中心 11th Floor South Building, Henghua lnternational Business Center, 26 Yuetan North Street, Xicheng District, Beijing http://www.cicc.org.cn 总编辑 Editor in Chief of China Intercontinental Press: 慈爱民 Ci Aimin 期刊部负责人 Supervisor of Magazine Department: 邓锦辉 Deng Jinhui 编辑 : 梁健发行 / 市场 : 黄静李若琳广告 : 林煜宸

Editor in Chief Jocelyn Richards Shenzhen Editor Sky Thomas Gidge Senior Digital Editor Matthew Bossons Shenzhen Digital Editor Bailey Hu Senior Staff Writer Tristin Zhang National Arts Editor Erica Martin Contributors Gary Bailer, Lachlan Cairns, Lena Gidwani, Romain Jacquet-Lagreze, Mia Li, Noelle Mateer, Dominic Ngai, Jesse Pottinger, Dr. Leila Sabet, Katrina Shi, Angel Song, Dominique Wong, Zheng Yueyue

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WIN Editor's Note SEPTEMBER 2017

his month’s cover story was supposed to be about smoking. As China braces for the impact of a looming tobacco epidemic, we set out to see whether cigarettes Tmight ever truly be put out in a country that still regards Double Happiness smokes as wedding favors. But the more we dug into the topic of tobacco, the more we discovered it wasn’t the only story worth telling. Vaping, and the steady rise of e-smoking in China, became our focus – an up-and-coming industry that stands to offer smokers a safer alternative to cigarettes, and maybe even change the long-term We're giving away tickets to some trajectory of tobacco use on the mainland. of the very best events in the Pearl So we chatted with all kinds of people: a Las Vegas-based e-juice manufacturer who exports to China, the owner of Tianjin’s first vape lounge and a handful of other River Delta, alongside a host of free industry insiders right here in the PRD. meals and other goodies. Follow our While we learned that production is still going strong here (Shenzhen manufactures about 90 percent of all vape hardware sold worldwide), the vapers we official WeChat feeds and sign up talked to also alluded to the fact that the industry is about to encounter some serious for our weekly newsletter for your hurdles. What’s next for vaping in China, and will the trend be extinguished just as chance to win major prizes! To stay quickly as it ignited? Turn to p36 to find out. In City, Shanghai chief editor Dominic Ngai talks to a French photographer up to date, visit www.thatsmags. capturing Hong Kong’s uniquely vertical character in his series ‘Vertical Horizon.’ For com or scan the QR codes below and those of us who tend to get lost in our phones when trying to find the best noodle shop in Wanchai (guilty!), this collection offers a glimpse of the beautiful sights we follow our WeChat accounts. might be missing overhead (p12). Elsewhere in the magazine, we travel to Qingyuan’s psychedelic caves (p19), introduce a gadget that lets you play hundreds of retro video games (Mario Cart, anyone? p18) and ask the chief curator of Art Canton what we can look forward to at this year’s show (p29). I hope you enjoy our September issue – catch you back here next month! ThatsGuangzhou Cheers,

Jocelyn Richards Editor-in-Chief

ThatsShenzhen

THAT’S TIANJIN GOES DIGITAL Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen… and now Tianjin. We’re proud to announce that we are adding a Tianjin section to our website and app, as well as Hourly updates on news, current affairs and general launching a That’s Tianjin WeChat account. News, events, weirdness from around the listings, guides and giveaways – we’ve got the lot. Scan PRD and China. the QR codes here to follow us on WeChat and download That’s App, and visit Thatsmags.com/Tianjin. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA facebook.com/ThatsPRD twitter.com/ThatsPRD

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4 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 5 8 CITY 36 COVER STORY GATHERING STEAM 9 SHEAR FUN China's smokers turn to vaping. Facial threading specialist.

10 BEHIND THE CONCRETE Shenzhen’s Diwang Building.

16 LIFE & STYLE 46 COMMUNITY

17 ANNIE ATIENZA From hedge fund to fashion. 26 PRD WEARABOUTS The best in street style.

68 EVENTS 28 ARTS SZ

29 ART CANTON What to expect at Guangdong’s 8th international art fair. SEPT 12 34 GOING LONGER Cantus Leading Beijing rockers Chui Wan take their MO complex third album on a world tour.

SEPT 9, 16, 23 & OCT 1 2017 Macao International 58 EAT & Fireworks Display Contest

DRINK HK

64 CANTON 8 Two-star seal. 66 KING'S BAR Bao'an rising. SEPT 21 Ariana Grande THE WRAP

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CITY

What Lies Above Hong Kong's vertical cityscapes, p12

Origin Story Chinese Urban Dictionary P10 P11

8 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM MAN ON THE STREET 9 - - WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM Threading specialists have apparently apparently specialists have Threading As business on the once-bustling Gaodi thread hair facial the reasons, Whatever Man on the Street is a monthly feature where we talk to someone doing an everyday job to gain insight into the lives of ordinary Chinese people. just RMB15 and should be done no less than best results. for weeks two every hair include other business to their expanded we how not sure services, but we’re removal fuzz exposed our underarm about having feel in China… street pedestrian on a busy practice. so has Ms. Yu’s cools down, Street intimate having gone from have The women and competitive, being more friendships to be to reluctant meet are some of the ladies we interviewed. disappearing, causing gradually ing ladies are will continue the tradi “who wonder, to many tion?” THE DIRTY DETAILS THE DIRTY salary: RMB1,000 and up Monthly 7 per week: Days 9am-noon 5 (from around Hours per day: dark) before hours and two - - - - . A strong connection is ayi. A strong Many customers we meet have a favorite a favorite meet have we customers Many custom that her she’s proud says Ms. Yu expensive complicated, more to Compared The trick is having both speed and both speed The trick is having ing is simpler, cheaper and effective. It costs and effective. cheaper ing is simpler, strength – the faster the snip, the less pain. – the faster strength hair pulled is almost always facial But having it for those trying for a bit painful, especially In our do it infrequently. who time or the first but the eyes, most around it hurts experience, most ladies. for the pain should be bearable facial-hair-pulling find others to them, as it’s hard built between in the city. elsewhere the practice offering come back and some willing to always ers are less takes in line. It usually wait times even she says, one lady, service to than 10 minutes chatting. are they and time flies when thread equipment or products, removal hair Happiness cigarettes). Using the powder to Using the powder cigarettes). Happiness employs Ms. Yu of friction, enhance the force a tri create – to both hands – and her teeth just like works which with the thread, angle pull out small hairs. For a pair of scissors to the edges of the face around hair longer facial or she utilizers a tweezers and eyebrows, cuspidal and flat bamboo10-centimeter-long pull them out.stick to -

- - iddle-aged women wave to busy busy to wave iddle-aged women near Beijing pedestrians on a street Lu in Guangzhou, turning heads

Forget lasers and tweezers – these wom lasers and tweezers Forget The main tools used are sewing thread sewing thread used are The main tools Ms. Yu is one of the many female ‘threading female is one of the many Ms. Yu Literally translated as ‘facial hair pull as ‘facial translated Literally

别开生面).

By Katrina Shi SHEAR FUN ThreadingFacial Specialist want to remove your facial hair?” hair?” facial your remove to want with their tempting call: “Beautiful ladies, call: “Beautiful ladies, with their tempting powder’ (it has nothing to do with Double (it has nothing to powder’ and begonia powder, or ‘double happiness and begonia powder, job (and source of entertainment) today. of entertainment) job (and source Kaiping, and continues to make it her part-time it her make Kaiping, and continues to down by female relatives in her hometown of in her hometown relatives female by down women, has never forgotten the skill passed forgotten has never women, promising a ‘new face and new beginning’ and new beginning’ a ‘new face promising ago on Gaodi Street.years the other She, like the night before her wedding as a blessing as a blessing wedding her before the night ( about 10 spontaneously gathered who experts’ service from an older women in the family in the family an older women service from hair removal methods like chemical prod methods like hair removal this receive often would A bride-to-be China. that was popular before the 80s, when other other the 80s, when popular before that was in ucts and equipment became available ing,’ the women’s trade is an old practice practice is an old trade the women’s ing,’ simple sewing thread. en can remove unwanted facial hair with a hair with a facial unwanted en can remove M THE BUZZ

RANDOM NUMBER CITY SNAPSHOT Origin Story

A freelance cinematog- rapher and DP living 1,600 between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, Adam …is the number of kilometers Ruszkowski captured Guangdong’s new coastal highway will this shot of Shenzhen Bay stretch, connecting 14 cities within the from Hong Kong’s New province. Though People’s Daily initially claimed the highway would be the long- - est coastal roadway in the world, a closer ingTerritories, Shenzhen where being he built spent and a couplehearing days stories filming of Communist scenes for China,”a movie. Ruszkowski tells us. “His look revealed Ireland’s 2,500-kilometer family“It’s emigrates a story of to a Australiayoung man just who before grew the up handover in a fishing in village1997, afraid on the of Hong what Kong might side happen. watch Wild Atlantic Way retains that title. After over 10 years of suburban Australian existence, the young man returns to his village and But enough with ‘whose is bigger’ – decides to start anew on the other shore in Shenzhen.” let's get back to what matters, namely, Ruszkowski has produced and shot various documentaries and shorts, including projects which Guangdong settlements will be for BBC, HBO, Vice, Forbes, Hennessy and more. Find him on Instagram @ruszkowski.adam. located on the route. They are: Zhanjiang, Maoming, Yangjiang, Jiangmen, Zhuhai, Want your photo in our City Snapshot column? Tag #thatsprd on Instagram for a chance to be featured on our Zhongshan, Guangzhou, Dongguan, feed and in the magazine. Shenzhen, Huizhou, Shanwei, Jieyang, Shantou, and Chaozhou. For those fond of sightseeing, the BEHIND THE CONCRETE coastal road will include plenty of viewing decks – as well as bike lanes – so you can Shenzhen’s Diwang Building Looking for a build- trip without fearing for your life. finally take that cross-province Mobike ing that embodies Shenzhen’s rapid meteoric growth? We present Shun Hing Square, located in Luohu District and

time of heavy invest- 855 finished in 1996, a ment from the Hong … is the number of pieces of security Kong side of the bor- equipment – including soon-to-be-in- der. The Cantonese stalled X-ray machines – purchased by romanization, Shun Guangzhou Metro last month in an effort Hing, remains its to ramp up security measures. 855 could also be the number of additional seconds Mandarin-speaking Shenzheners it’s simply the Diwang (‘Land King’) Building, because its plot you’ll have to wait in line while metro staff ofofficial land name,was the but most to expensive in the city when it was auctioned. not complaining… months, the 384-meter-tall Diwang Building bolstered the legend of ‘Shenzhen speed’ and scan everyone’s bags. But we’re definitely Sometimes built at an explosive rate of four floors every nine days and finished in just 40 country. briefly served as the tallest building in China. Today, it’s still the 15th highest building in the topped by two syringe-like spires that give the building a distinctive look. The spires, illumi- natedThe by main colored tower lights houses each the night, expected also gave offices the Diwangand a 69th-floor Building viewingan edge overplatform, other and Shenzhen is structures until the nearby KK100 snatched the tallest-building crown. In 2015, Russian-Ukrainian daredevils climbed up the building’s tip-top towers, and the anxiety-inducing video has almost two million hits on YouTube.

10 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM [email protected]

he world is full of con artists and everyone gets conned. In China, beautifully executed scams often inspire more respect and awe than Tcondemnation – after all, a scam is a match of wits. Kengdie is what you say when you realize you have just lost the match. Keng means ‘to scam’ and die means ‘father.’ Literally meaning “you have just conned your father,” kengdie gives you one last chance to belittle whoever just conned you by calling him your son. It’s a kind of after-the- fact trash talking, a way to blow off some steam, a now-futile attempt to regain some points. Kengdie becomes handy when you spend thousands of yuan on a pair of Adidas Yeezy sneakers only to realize they are fake; when the pet hamsters you order online turn out to be rats; when the iPhone you buy turns into a brick; when the language-exchange partner you met on Tinder shows up with bodyguards and demands payment… Let’s just say that kengdie is a very useful word in China. An alternative interpretation of kengdie is that the scam is so clever that it would have fooled your father, let alone you. It conveys a kind of respect for Kengdie/ Kēngdiē / 坑爹 adj. deceptive, swindling, being how clever the scam is – so clever that the scammers almost deserve the loot. a scam or a con Kengdie can also be used to accuse someone of trying to scam you. “Your offer is too kengdie,” means you are not happy with the offer on When I was booking the hotel, it said “this price does the table. “This price is too kengdie,” is useful when bargaining at the silk not include lunch or dinner.” So I assumed that it included breakfast. market. Sometimes calling kengdie preemptively is the best way to not say kengdie later. Indeed, scams abound in China from the cradle to the grave. From Did it? the day you are born, you face kengdie baby formula, kengdie nannies and kengdie toys. When you grow up, you face kengdie schools, apartments, Nope. It was so kengdie. cars and bosses. In the end you still have to deal with kengdie hospitals, retirement schemes, pension plans and graveyard plots. Kengdie is a reality of life in China. The sooner you get used to it, the better you will fare. Indeed. Good luck now. By Mia Li

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 11 CITY | PHOTO ESSAY

When I was shooting ‘Vertical Horizon,’ I learned a lot about the way Hong Kong was developed.

UP HEADS12 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM PHOTO ESSAY | CITY

Vertical Horizon 44: New versus old on the east side of Hong Kong Island

ocated within the ‘humid sub- tropical’ zone, Hong Kong’s summers are perfectly defined by its climate classification – long, hot and sticky, with frequent appearances by thunderstorms, Lshowers and typhoons. Exacerbating its heat level is the way that the city was planned and developed over the last century, with multiple skyscrapers shooting off into the sky across its cen- You can understand the tral areas – mainly along the iconic coastline of Victoria Harbour on Hong Kong Island history of a district based and in Kowloon, as well as pockets of the on its architecture New Territories unaffected by its hilly and mountainous terrain. When strolling down the streets of Central, Wanchai or Tsim Sha Tsui on a midsummer day, these high-rises can be your worst enemies, as they trap the heat and suffocate those who are squeezing through its narrow, crowded streets. For Romain Jacquet-Lagreze, however, Hong Kong’s notorious ‘walled buildings’ (屏风楼) are a source of artistic inspiration for his photography career. A former web designer from France, Jacquet-Lagreze met his Hong Kong-born wife and moved to her hometown in 2009. Shortly afterwards, he purchased his first camera, and photography has been his full-time profession ever since. Between 2011 and 2016, Jacquet- Lagreze created ‘Vertical Horizon,’ a photo series that vividly captures Hong Kong’s uniquely vertical visual character. “In some areas of Hong Kong, like Quarry Bay, you have a high density of buildings from different eras and with different architectural styles, such as 60-year-old walk-ups and skyscrapers with glass and metallic exteriors, standing next to one another” he explains. “This mixture, and just the sheer density of it all, make the city very unique.” West Kowloon, an area where some of the Hong Kong’s oldest buildings remain unharmed by the city’s aggressive urban Shooting Hong Kong’s redevelopment plans (for now, anyway), has been Jacquet-Lagreze’s home for the past eight years. The first photo of ‘Vertical Unique Vertical Cityscape Horizon’ was also taken here in the district of Sham Shui Po, where the photographer Words by Dominic Ngai, photos by Romain Jacquet-Lagreze first noticed the interesting ways that a

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 13 CITY | PHOTO ESSAY

worm’s eye view shot could illustrate the contrast between the new and old architectural styles. For the next five years, he actively scoured the city for interesting spots to take these ‘look up’ shots, and has accu- mulated a total of 110 photos with the same angle. During this process, Jacquet-Lagreze also had the opportunity to explore and understand his adopted home on a deeper level. He says, “When I was shooting ‘Vertical Horizon,’ I learned a lot about the way Hong Kong was developed. You can understand the history of a district based on its architecture and the people who live there.” Besides capturing the interesting lines and contours of skyscrapers in Central or Wanchai and the older, small residential walk-ups in his own neighborhood, Jacquet-Lagreze notes that the shots taken in colorful, modern public housing projects in the suburbs of Hong Kong also highlight a different side of the city that people from elsewhere don’t often get to see. He says, “‘Vertical Horizon #16,’ for instance, was taken in the ground floor atrium of [one such building]. The golden squares of each floor and the emptiness of the shot make it look almost like some sort of abstract and futuristic tunnel. It takes a moment for people to realize it’s a building where thousands of people live.” Though it was the uniqueness of Hong Kong’s verticality that inspired ‘Vertical Horizon,’ Jacquet-Lagreze believes that the series can potentially be replicated in other cities with a similar environment, like Top to bottom: Chongqing. “The topography of Chongqing Vertical Horizon 16: A residential building turning into is quite similar to Hong Kong; there are lots an abstract tunnel of hills surrounding the city center, where a Vertical Horizon 7: Flags flying high concentration of modern high-rises are high on Temple Street located,” he tells us. Vertical Horizon 107: Inside a In a recent exhibition titled ‘Hong Kong residential complex in the New Upside Down,’ worm’s eye view shots from Territories ‘Vertical Horizon’ were juxtaposed against Vertical Horizon 95: Shiny office buildings in Kowloon Hong Kong photographer Tugo Cheng’s bird’s eye view shots of the city taken with a drone to showcase Hong Kong’s cityscape in two opposing angles. “What’s special about [Tugo’s] drone photos is that they feature different aspects of the city – graveyards, shipyards, factories – and not just skyscrapers. Many other drone photographers have a tendency to repeat the same shots and angles over and over again,” says Jacquet- Lagreze about the popularity of drones. Over the last few years, the architecture of the city has also been the focus of several of his other photo series, such as ‘The Blue Moment’ and ‘Wild Concrete.’ “Buildings are definitely my favorite things to shoot,” says Jacquet-Lagreze. “What I like to show with these photos is the contrast between the city and elements of nature, like bodies of water and forests; that’s quite fascinating for me and there’s plenty of that in Hong Kong.”

See more of Romain Jacquet-Lagreze’s work at www.romainjl.com

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ANNIE ATIENZA From Hedge Fund to Fashion Interview by Dominic Ngai

Annie Atienza was working in a hedge fund in New York until the financial crisis in 2008 gave her the opportunity to reassess her career and rediscover her interest in fashion. After a two-and-a-half-year program on image consulting at the Fashion Institute of Technology, Atienza has since been working with private clients in the US and China to assess their wardrobe needs, producing photo shoots for brands like Apple and Beats by Dre, and styling runway shows for designers at Shanghai Fashion Week. In this interview, she tells us about the most important skillsets for her line of work, as well as what it was like to create the red carpet look for Beijing-born singer Gong Ge, who was nominated for the “The business of fashion is a very serious thing, even if Best New Artist category at the 2017 Golden sometimes people think that fashion can be a bit frivolous” Melody Awards in Taiwan.

Tell us about your background and how What skills are most important for your job? What’s the most memorable project that you became an image consultant and you’ve worked on? I am extremely detail-oriented and clients wardrobe stylist. tell me they appreciate this. Flexibility is very Recently I was hired by Sony Music to dress I have always loved fashion; I remember important as well because you never know Gong Ge, who was nominated for Best New spending hours poring over my grandmother’s what you’re walking into on a set, so you need Artist at this year’s Golden Melody Awards in earrings and brooches at an early age. I real- to understand quickly who the key players Taiwan. His team needed me to create a week’s ize now that I’d always been building looks are, whose creative voice is at the top of the worth of looks for him for various interviews around a particular color scheme, or playing food chain, who you need to listen to, while and performances leading up to the main event, with a particular statement piece at the core of still maintaining your own authority. Finally, and of course, for the red carpet and ceremony I’ll note what I call the ‘fairy godmother’ factor, too. It was a pleasure to work with someone at sector. In 2008, when the market crashed, I or the importance of being able to rally team such an exciting peak in his performance career. decideda look. I actuallyit was time used for to a work change in andthe financialI went members together, to help clients feel calm back to school at the Fashion Institute of while maintaining excitement, to allow models How did you prepare for this gig? Technology in New York City. Three years ago, I listened to his songs and worked with a trans- my husband and I moved to Shanghai and it’s I work as a stylist, the more I realize that this lator friend to understand his lyrics and target been exactly the change we were looking for. skillto feel is confidentthe cornerstone and comfortable. of the role IThe play. longer audience. Gong Ge also shared his expectations with me; he talked about people that he wanted Are there things in finance that are appli- How would you compare your roles as an to look like, and people he didn’t want to look cable in your current line of work? image consultant and wardrobe stylist? like. I also looked at what past nominees wore One thing that I always remember is the As an image consultant, I focus on the science on the red carpet to understand what’s expected of an individual’s body and face to help them of him. We’ve continued to work together after because you’re working with other peo- identify the non-verbal message that they the awards, most recently at a press event with ple’shigh-pressure money. With environment commercial [in styling, finance], for want to deliver through their clothes, and Tmall and Abercrombie & Fitch in Shanghai, and example, clients have budgets and they’re then digging into their wardrobe to make sure there will be a couple more gigs over the next expecting high quality products out of the there are workhorse pieces that they can mix month or two. It’s nice to be able to build an TV commercial or photo shoot that you’re and match and carry them through their daily ongoing relationship with a client. After his big producing with them. You have to approach needs. For wardrobe styling, I need to put on week in Taiwan, he told me that having a well- every client with an absolute level of respect my ‘visual language hat’ to understand what curated wardrobe allowed him to relax and focus and professionalism, and make it apparent the client’s needs are and to collaborate with on his performances and interviews. As a stylist, to them that it’s just as important to you. a team of creative folks to create beautiful you can’t ask for more than that. The business of fashion is a very serious images, whether it’s for an editorial or com- thing, even if sometimes people think that mercial shoot or working with designers on a See more of Annie Atienza’s work at www. fashion can be a bit frivolous. runway show. annieatienza.com

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 17 STYLE RADAR

COVET TAP THAT APP Flight Aware Kate Wood’s New Sunnies check departure updates nowadays, but While you were sweating the summer away, weCountless like Flight apps Aware let you for track three flights reasons: and it’s the folks at Kate Wood have been busy mak- free, it has a great user interface and it loads ing improvements on the design of their ‘quickly’ with or without a VPN (we are still wooden sunglasses. Based on customer talking about Chinese Internet here). feedback, they’ve experimented with new Signing in is a breeze – mostly because materials and different classic and funky you don’t have to. Creating an account is shapes to come up with 50 new styles, all of optional. which feature bigger, sturdier frames (forti- Open the app and a map of the world - er quality lenses. Prices start from RMB688, a mass of tiny paper airplanes. These are all availablefied with onmultiple their Taobaolayers of shop wood) and and at their high ofwill the emerge planes first, currently along inwith the what sky, including looks like Shanghai shop. both commercial aircraft and private jets. You can tap any of them to see where www.katewood.com.cn they’re heading (fun for about two minutes),

view its current trajectory (useful for family or input the information of a specific flight to If you’re still poolside and counting downmembers the minuteswho worry until when you youhave fly). to leave for the airport, open Flight Aware to check your INSPECT-A-GADGET You can also see how the weather is affecting yourflight’s departure status and airport boarding – including gate in advance.the total number of delays and average wait time – to Retro Gaming Box Modern video game systems are master- will change. pieces of hardware, packing photorealistic estimateThe only the likelihooddownside thatto Flight your Aware flight time is - that it still doesn’t offer an Apple Watch age. This is not that. extension. For our plugged-in readers who graphicsThe Twilight in a seamless Retro online-offline Box instead has pack a prefer an app that does, we recommend distinct DIY feel, with the on-off button on FlightStats, App in the Air or FlightRadar24. the actual power cord and a mini-SD card The last one lets you identify any airplane in visible from the back. But hook up the Xbox the sky simply by pointing your camera at it. 360 controllers and it does what’s promised: Talk about badass. 400 games of retro goodness, all packed into Available for iPhone, iPad and Android devices something slightly larger than your palm. Emulated systems include the Sega Megadrive, Nintendo classic, Super Nintendo tacted the manufacturer. and an arcade emulator. The system is heavily customizable, Remember that favorite game you though that means interacting with a DOS-like poured hours into as a child? Chances are menu screen, again, D to IY. the Twilight Retro Box has it, though we If you’re looking for bleeding edge graph- were disappointed by the lack of Nintendo ics and want to keep up with the latest re- leases, this is not for you. Instead, it’s about Ocarina of Time (aka – the greatest game of sentimental bouts of Mortal Kombat between the64 games, 90s). specifically The Legend of Zelda: millennials. Controls are responsive, though the sys- For who: nostalgic gamers – for instance pushing A and B at the same How much: RMB700 to RMB1,100 depending on timetem offered will ‘insert us a coin’share in of the baffling arcade moments emulator, games Sold where: WeChat (twilightretro) though we didn’t know this until we con-

18 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM [email protected]

bridge is what you’re looking for – because nothing says “I’ve traveled China” quite like a photo on a see-through walkway 100 meters above the ground. For PRD-based foodies, a trip here is essential to sample the region’s distinguished ‘Qingyuan chicken,’ locally farmed, free-range birds that are said to offer a superior taste to those raised in the city. Tea drinkers will want to try the ‘Yingde hongcha,’ a black tea popularized by the British royal family in 1963 after being DAYTRIPPER served at the Queen’s banquet. According to China Daily, Yingde is considered one of “the top three places in the world” to cultivate Psychedelic Caves and Hot Spring Fun in Qingyuan black tea – something that has been done in the region for the past 1,200 years. Accessible via fast train from both Qingyuan may only be an hour-and-15-min- in long, motorized boats. Shenzhen and Guangzhou, Qingyuan is both ute drive from Guangzhou, but in many re- The Lianzhou karst cave, located 26 kilo- an easy day trip and rewarding weekend gards, it’s a world away. meters to the northeast of Lianzhou city, has getaway for anyone interested in exploring Canton’s skyscrapers are replaced by received similar treatment, with spellbinding the prefecture. MB rolling hills and mountains – including geological formations illuminated in a rain- Guangdong’s highest peak – and congested bow of light that looks much like what we’d roadways are contrasted by, well, less crowd- imagine Batcave to look if Raoul Duke and ed streets dominated by electric scooters and Bruce Wayne swapped stories (we’ll refrain motorbikes. from envisioning a Wayne-focused Fear and Recommended The air is a little cleaner, and at night, you Loathing). can see those glowing celestial bodies you Also in Yingde is the ‘Corridor of Peaks,’ accommodation: used to gawk at back home: stars. which vaunts jagged, sharply-rising moun- Sheraton Qingyuan Lion Lake Resort is Guangdong’s largest prefecture by land tains that are reminiscent of the illustrious in itself a destination, boasting beautiful area, the region boasts scenic mountains, karst peaks in the Guangxi tourist Meccas of Arabian-style decor, lake views, three forests, rivers and lakes, offering no shortage Yangshuo and Guilin. restaurants, both indoor and outdoor of outdoor activities, from hiking, rafting and Qingyuan is conceivably most famous for its relaxing natural hot springs, which, we and access to the Lion Lake Golf Club. Those interested in spelunking are en- can attest from experience, are spectacular. pools, a fitness center and tennis court couragedfishing to torock pay climbing a visit to and the cave historical exploration. set- Unfortunately, like most things in China, the tlement of Yingde, which boasts a number hot pools in Qingyuan we’re aware of are all How to get there: of beautiful, albeit touristy, caves suited for monetized, which means either checking into High-speed trains go from Guangzhou amateur subterranean explorers. a hot spring hotel or paying to visit a country- South and take approximately 20 min- Two caves worthy of a stop are the side geothermal pool. utes, while trains to Qingyuan from Xianqiao and Lianzhou underground rivers. Not interested in psychedelic caves and Guangzhou Railway Station, in Yuexiu, At Xianqiao, guides take you through a num- cold beer in hot mineral water? Then maybe take roughly 45 minutes. ber of partially submerged, colorfully lit caves a walk along Qingyuan’s 60-meter-long glass

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 19 LIFE & STYLE | TRAVEL

SWISS CHARM Zurich’s Creative Types Define ‘Quality’ By Dominic Ngai

lead a quality life. On a recent trip to Zurich, Running next to the lake and around the comes to mind to describe we heard from a few locals about how their Old Town was part of my morning ritual on a Switzerland.uality’ is the firstBesides word producing that city and country’s attractive infrastructures week-long trip to Zurich in July. In a city nes- some of the world’s best cheeses, inspire their creativity, as well as how im- tled between rivers, lakes and mountains, a chocolates and watches, it’s also portant it is for them to maintain quality good number of joggers in their colorful run- ‘Qlong been a frequent guest on standards in their age-old traditions and ning gear are already speeding along the tree- the top spots of the UN’s ‘World Happiness craftsmanship. lined waterfront boulevard by 7am, brushing Report,’ while its largest city, Zurich, is fea- past well-dressed men and women riding tured as one of the world’s most livable cities A Sporty Nation on lists such as Monocle’s annual Quality of with gym bags over their shoulders. Life Survey. Hopping on the 6.14am tram from our apart- their “Sports fixies on is theira big waypart toof workSwiss and culture; armed From enjoying one of the highest per ment near the Central Station, it takes exactly people love outdoor adventures. If you ask capita incomes and lowest unemployment 10 minutes to get to Lake Zurich. Just like its me who our biggest competitor is, I’d say it’s rates in the world, to having long-term eco- public transport system, everything in Zurich nature, because people don’t really need a nomic and political stability, the Swiss aren’t runs in an orderly and timely manner – a nice gym to exercise in Zurich,” says Paco Savio, just an exporter of quality products, they’re change of pace from the constantly chaotic the cofounder and creative director of inde- also a living and breathing example of how to

traffic on the streets of China. pendent fitness brand, Balboa, which offers 20 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM TRAVEL | LIFE & STYLE

equipment-free classes ranging from yoga to high-intensity multifunctional training and martial arts. Since opening in 2014, the Buenos Aires native and his business partners have expanded Balboa to having three locations, 2,000 active members, and 40 instructors and employees across Zurich. We’re sitting just outside their newest branch at Im Viadukt – a popular cultural and lifestyle complex built under the arches of a railway bridge on the city’s west side. A photo shoot for the latest yoga ap- parel collaboration between Balboa and lululemon is taking place inside the studio. Behind us, a couple of kindergarten teachers are setting up for a picnic for their class

be always camera ready; there are simply noon bada lush angles field toof it.grass. “It’s The a very city typical appears scene to here; everything is always very harmonious,” Savio comments. “Zurich has that small village feel, but it’s also a global metropolis at the same time.” Made in Switzerland A few doors down from Balboa is BrankoB, a multi-brand menswear boutique that carries the works of Swiss designers like Adrian Reber. Originally from the Swiss capital, Bern, the former Hugo Boss designer initially started his eponymous label right after graduating from Paris’ Atelier Chardon Savard in the early 2000s. After a seven-year stint as the head of design of knitwear for the Hugo collection, Reber decided to head home and re-launch the brand in 2014. Reber’s career trajectory is a common one for Swiss-born designers. Due to the small size of their country, they generally choose to look beyond its borders and kick off their careers in fashion capitals like Milan, Paris or London. Most of them, however, would eventually return home after they’ve established a name in the industry. “I came back for the quality of life,” Reber tells me. “My apartment here is much bigger

walk away from a forest and I can go skiing inthan winter the one during I had the in weekend.Paris. It’s Switzerlanda five-minute is quite a good place to be creative because it’s less stressful here.” It’s not only native Swiss designers who recognize Zurich’s appeal. Back in March, French clothing label Vetements made headlines with a surprising decision to relo- Previous page: A view of Zurich Old Town cate its headquarters and the entire design Top to bottom: team from Paris to Zurich. In an interview, - Paco Savio of Balboa Vetements CEO Guram Gvasalia describes the - The Dreifuss family: Leonard, Daniel and Massimo (L-R) move as a “clean slate” from the French capi- - Adrian Reber at his studio tal, stating that its “destructive ‘bling bling’ - Patrick Hohmann of Werenbach - A beautiful day at Im Viadukt become a hindrance to the brand’s creativity andenvironment” growth. and “superficial glamor” has Though Switzerland is a small player in fashion compared to their Italian or French

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 21 LIFE & STYLE | TRAVELHOSPITALITY AWARDS

“Zurich has that small village feel, but it’s also a global metropolis at the same time”

Top to bottom: - A cloudless sunny day on Lake Zurich - Taking a dip in the lake - Tom Boerema on guitar neighbors, Reber makes it a point to brand his collection of men’s modern basics and handmade couture pieces as ‘made in Switzerland.’ “We’re losing more and more of the manufac- the labor cost is too high,” says the designer. “However,turing [to places I still like like to Eastern work with Europe] some because of the eco-friendly production plants here and support them; it’s part of my brand’s DNA.” A Timely Tradition For watchmakers, where the Swiss have been a market leader for centuries, ‘made in Switzerland’ is a symbol for top quality for both buyers and industry insiders alike. Besides your Rolex, Omega, Longines and Tissot, inde- pendent boutique brands are also commonly found on the streets of major Swiss cities. One example of which is Maurice de Mauriac, a self- proclaimed ‘made by Zurich’ label that started in 1997. Its atelier is located in a posh commercial neighborhood, a block away from Park - nent Swiss banks. Hyatt“Our Zurich customers and the include offices manyof several bankers promi and diplomats, and they usually don’t come in just to buy a watch – they are looking for stories to

22 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM TRAVEL | LIFE & STYLE

back on Earth in a restricted military zone in Kazakhstan. “We either cut the dial of the watch directly from the spacecraft materials or melt them and make the case of the watches with them; it has to be very precise,” Hohmann explains. Precision is something that the Swiss are known for, and the success of its watchmaking industry is an evident example of such a trait. In the case of Werenbach, for instance, its aluminum dials, cut directly from salvaged rocket material, must be trimmed to a certain size and thickness by the label’s in-house watchmaker. Hohmann adds, “What makes Swiss watches unique is the fact that we’re very detail-oriented and we don’t compro- mise on quality, and to produce a watch is all about these things. Coupled with the fact that Swiss-made movements are the best is why we make the best watches in the world.” The Final Note Back at Lake Zurich, Tom Boerema is standing in front of one of the park benches with the Opernhaus Zurich on one side and with the lake as his background, singing and playing his acoustic guitar while tourists and after-work drinkers hang out by the lake and sunbathers soak in the last beams of today’s sunlight. After a few songs, a small crowd gathers, and some of them are placing CHF10 notes (about RMB70) in his guitar case in exchange for his self-produced album. “I like busking here because it’s a great way to meet people. The lake brings everyone together, and it’s pretty good money, too. It’s interesting to see what songs catch people’s attention… it can be brutal and honest and I like that,” says the tell with their watch. Over the years, we’ve 27-year-old Australian musician, who spends built a relationship and trust with them,” about six months of the year in Zurich to be says founder Daniel Dreifuss, a 30-year vet- with his Swiss girlfriend. During this time, he eran of the watchmaking industry. usually focuses on writing music and drawing Maurice de Mauriac is a family busi- inspiration from the history and culture of his ness in the truest sense: Dreifuss’ sons surroundings. – Massimo (24) and Leonard (22) – have He adds, “Zurich is a nice place to live, been helping out at their father’s shop since but it’s very money-oriented. People that I they were in elementary school. After years of greeting customers and serving coffee, I play music for a living by choice. It’s not Massimo is now helping his father with stablemeet here and findI don’t it difficult earn a lot to ofunderstand money, but why sales while Leonard just launched a new what I do have in return is freedom and a website and created other branding collat- feeling you can’t get anywhere else when you erals for Maurice de Mauriac. create something that you’re proud of.” “Many Swiss families pass down The pristine water of Lake Zurich behind watches from generation to generation,” says Daniel of how much timepieces are temporary refuge from the heat. Despite be- ingrained in Swiss traditions. “Some kids get ingBoerema one of is the filled most with expensive swimmers cities seeking to live in, this is one of the rare forms of luxury that asked whether he’d want his sons to take Zurichers and visitors can enjoy for free. overtheir thefirst business Rolex when when they he retires,turn 13!” Daniel When replies, “That would be nice, but what I want www.balboamove.ch is for them to be happy… Hopefully they can www.im-viadukt.ch make a decision in the next few years.” www.adrianreber.com Across town in the atelier of Werenbach, www.werenbach.ch founder Patrick Hohmann tells us about www.mauricedemauriac.ch the concept of making watches from the www.soundcloud.com/tomboeremamusic remnants of space rockets that have fallen

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 23 LIFE & STYLE | FASHION AWAY hoes for the Lazy S O nes Com pi P led b y D om I in ic N g a L i S

Running late and can’t find the right pair of shoes to wear? Having a pair of slip-on sneakers in your closet can save you so much time. Not only do they pair well with almost all looks and outfits, you can put them on and kick them off in seconds. From OG classics like Vans to latecomers like Nike, here are some that you should slip into your wardrobe.

For Him For Her 1. B:MING by Beams, RMB300, beams.co.jp 5. H&M, RMB99.9, hm.com 2. Toms, RMB460, toms.com.cn 6. Zara, RMB459, zara.cn 3. Nike, RMB699, nike.com 7. Toms, RMB490, toms.com.cn 4. Vans, RMB495, vans.com.cn 8. Nike, RMB479, nike.com

24 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM WAY P A LI S LIFE & STYLE | STREET STYLE

PRD Wearabouts

Photos by Angel Song and Each month, we scour the streets of Shenzhen and Guangzhou to find Tristin Zhang some of the most stylish people in town and see what they’re wearing.

Anna Lu Watch: Bulgari Shorts: HeyBig Sunglasses: Gucci Shoes: Adidas Bag: Gucci Pants: Keepsake Earrings: YSL Necklace: GCDS

Jerry Simon Shirt: Trendiano Shirtdress: Shorts: Zara Korean boutique Shoes: Converse Shoes: Air Jordan Watch: Angie Bag: Coach Socks: Aape

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ARTS

Hanna Turi Our top picks from artists visiting South China this month, p31

Canvassed Beijing Rockers P30 P34

28 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM DRUMROLL - - 29 ------号广 117 (Contact Justin on号馆 (Contact 5 广州市越秀区流花路 WeChat: jofbestart; www.artcanton.com) jofbestart; www.artcanton.com) WeChat: pands, it will also have a greater a greater pands, it will also have contempo impact on the global art scene. rary Sept 21-24 Sept 15-18 (Int'l Art Fair); RMB50 at door. Art Fair); (Contemporary 5, Guangzhou Liuhua Exhibition &Hall District, 117, Liuhua Lu, Yuexiu Center, Trade Guangzhou temporary art. If contemporary art. If contemporary temporary genuinely create to artists are ones that especially works, great aesthetic Chinese core to adhere Guangdong then I believe values, of na the trend lead will actually art in China. tional contemporary contem does Chinese Where on stand art currently porary stage? the global art is contemporary China's the world. to rapidly spreading is much dif The situation now in the 1980s, when from ferent contemporary international and intimidated inundated art dec after artists. Today, Chinese development, own ades of China's national obvious is a more there and art.self-confidence in culture copy the past used to Artists from art China’s art, but now, foreign a large have to scene is proving number of capable and thoughtful that as contem I believe artists. and ex grows art in China porary 州流花展贸中心 superior Lingnan culture, so Lingnan culture, superior the to is sometimes resistant art. But as influence of foreign and more society progresses, been or people have young more on con focus beginning to are WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM - plete, pure contemporary art art contemporary pure plete, This is the first time exhibition. has been held in such a show Guangdong province. Guangdong people say Many at arts scene, lacks a strong and Beijing to least compared agree? Do you Shanghai. Guangdong has a unique and English. Foreigners who wish who Foreigners English. will in the event participate to about the learn more be able to of and prospects development art. contemporary Chinese particularly you’re Anything at this to forward looking fair? year’s thing is that The most exciting do a com able to finally are we - - - - When choosing art work, we we When choosing art work, sented in both Chinese and in both Chinese sented temporary Chinese art. Chinese A few temporary Fu Mr. are outstanding examples in his role Zenan, influential for 85 New Wave the avant-garde and Wang Jianghai Movement; Liming, both leaders of China’s and a number New Wild Group; artists such as Liu Xin, of female and Ji Hongwei, Rong Xu Xia Yu, unique perspectives have who soci of Chinese about the reality ety today. the ideas whether considered contemporary, are expressed and suit the aesthetic insightful We viewers. of Chinese values on finding focus to also wanted and vibrant young, relatively this year. artists creative include Will the exhibits descriptions? English will be pre art fair This year's What kinds of artists will be of artists What kinds this at Art Canton featured se they were how and year, lected? the will feature fair This year’s and 100 young of nearly work China middle-aged artists from of con at the forefront are who

Art Canton – an

Today,

for their families back

Now welcomingNow its 8th ou may not think of South China

chief curator, Wu Shaoning. we chatted with Art Canton’s sense of what the fair is about, all professors. give To you a better of acclaimed Chinese art show, developed by a team four-day contemporary art four-day Mao Lizi. the first to feature an additional Joan Miro, Kazuo Shiraga and edition, this year’s fair will be Salvador Dali, Fernando Botero, class artists like Pablo Picasso, featured pieces from world- legacy. Last year, the show home. home. revive rich artistic Guangdong’s work collectors every year – serves to to purchase custom-made art tens of thousands of visitors and Western businessmen looking international art fair that attracts go-to destination in China for for China in destination go-to but just a century ago, it was the Y as having a strong arts scene, International Art Fair By Jocelyn Richards What 8th Expect to at Guangdong’s ART CANTON COLL AGE

SINO CELEB CANVASSED Tang Wei Asian Classics Publishes We’ve always admired this Wenzhou-born actress. Though raised in an artistic family Modern Translations of Two (her mom was a stage actress and dad a painter), Tang Wei never planned to enter Major Ming Dynasty Novels the entertainment industry, claiming law Out this month from publisher Asian Classics are two ma- and archeology once topped her list of potential careers instead. (1368–1644). Early critics have praised both translations When side work in modeling eventu- forjor workstheir modern of fiction sensibility that date and by backhumor. to theQuelling Ming theDynasty Demon’s ally propelled her to study at the Central Revolt Academy of Drama in Beijing, she majored Luo Guanzhong (translated by Patrick Hanan) set several in directing, not acting. Then, just four hundred is ayears work before of historical his time, fiction during by WangMing DynastyZe’s uprising writer years after graduation, Tang was selected against the Song Dynasty in 1047. Luo wove caustic humor from more than 10,000 actresses to star and supernatural elements into his narrative of a young in Ang Lee’s erotic thriller Lust, Caution woman with magical powers who gets caught up in the (2007) as a Chinese student recruited to rebellion. The Book of Swindles, meanwhile, is a late Ming Dynasty story collection that has been praised by Peter Hessler and Ian Johnson for its bawdy an assassination plot. humor and social critique. Compiled by Zhang Yingyu in the 17th century and translated by seduceHer a performance Japanese-allied won official her global as part ac -of Christopher G. Rea and Bruce Rusk, it chronicles the scheming con men, sorcerers, alchemists claim (including a Trophée Chopard at the 51st Cannes Film Festival), but the Chinese State Administration of Radio Film and and forgers that took advantage of the Ming Dynasty’s flourishing economy. Television (SARFT) deemed her steamy HAO BU HAO sex scenes a little too hot and subsequently banned all mainland broadcasters and newspapers from showing or printing im- Hao ages of Tang, abruptly halting her career In honor of the fact that the number of inter- just as it was beginning to take off. national subscribers has surpassed that of enrolled in drama courses at the University of ReadingSo Tang and Wei allegedly flew to the performed UK, where as shea originalits domestic series. ones Directed for the by first up-and-coming time, Netflix street artist in her spare time. has green-lit its first Chinese language episode run, Bardo will tell the story of Ah ‘cool’ enough to return to China, Tang Wei Quan,filmmaker an inmate Sam Quah who andescapes slated from for prisonan eight- When the SARFT finally judged her- - mestic streaming site iQiyi to share its hit shows like Stranger Things and Black Mirror, hitwent Finding on to starMr. in a handful of films be soafter this learning foray into his originalson is in Chinese danger. languageIn April 2017, content Netflix seems signed to be a the licensing next logical deal with step. do Righttween, which2010 andwas 2016, including box office in Vancouver, Canada.filmed entirely Bu Hao

Kind of like: or buying the minimum number of tickets Sharon Stone af- The practice of ‘locking’ film screenings, ter Basic Instinct that the screening does not get canceled Famous for: be- despiteto any given a low screening turnout, hasof a beenfilm to plaguing ensure ing banned from movie theaters across China since 2015. mainland media Once in 2007 Upon A Time, causing it to remain in theaters despite fairly negative reviews from both See her next in: Long Day's Journey Into criticsLast month, and online fans of reviewers. rising star Cinema actor Yang owners Yang are have especially been locking irked byfilm the screenings trend because of it Night Wolf Warrior II.

forces them to offer less screenings of more successful films, like

30 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM [email protected]

WHAT’S NEW

Wolf Warrior II Breaks Highest- From A-lin’s pop powerhouse hits to Rachael Yamagata’s husky- grossing Film Record voiced ballads, here are our top 10 picks from artists playing in the PRD this month. It took less than two weeks at the

Tom Staar & Style of Eye - After Dark Jing’s domestic box office forWolf Wu 无谓再假 Warrior II to break Mr. - theaction nation’s film record Toy - Clear Shot for the highest- all time, knocking Hanna Turi - Ricochet Stephengrossing Chow’sfilm of The Mermaid into Rachael Yamagata - Over and Over second place. Wu 五月天 - 拥抱 Jing directs and 庄心妍 - 再见只是陌生人 tellsstars the in the story film, of lone wolf soldier Leng Feng, who visits an un- namedwhich takes African place country after theand events saves itsof inhabitantsthe first Wolf from Warrior a team and of Da Tweekaz ft. Elke Diels - Letting Go cruel Western mercenaries led by Big Daddy (played 你点的歌救了我 A-lin - themes and cutting-edge special effects as the se- by Frank Grillo). Critics cited the film’s nationalist Brooks & Martin Garrix - Byte crets to its success throughout the country.

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 31 ARTS | MUSIC CHINA Three New Homegrown Albums on MUSIC CORNER Our Radar This Month By Erica Martin

Astrology by Truetrue - bum by a duo named Truetrue. The record begins with a harsh, creaking noise intro that makes youThe thinklatest therelease rest fromof the Beijing’s songs will electro-future be far more labelexperimental Babel is thisand R&B-inflectedless melodic than synthpop they are al – the second track, ‘Meteor,’ set the record straight with its spare beat and beautifully spooky vocals. “Tell me another story before I fall asleep,” the singer croons, going on to ask a lover to spin a yarn about how they met. Some of the tracks have an almost folk sensibility, others an ambient electronic atmosphere, but most are cut through with the brooding, sensuality of R&B reminiscent of the best of 90s R&B, keep the album cohesive and catchy. Astrology achieves the ethoswith inflected of Babel withRecords a bit in of general, jazz and in twinkling that it is bothsynth. nostalgic The lovely and female forward-thinking. vocals on every track,

Listen here: https://babelrecords.bandcamp.com/album/astrology

四部复仇曲 by Scorpion Prisoner 69 This four-track EP comes from Scorpion Prisoner 69, a Shanghai-based trio comprised of long- standing musicians from other bands, including Goushen and Nonplus of Color/Mirrors. The album’s title can be translated to 'Four Revenge Songs' and it manages to be an interesting study

to Meiko Kaji, a Japanese actress known for her roles as outlaws and assassins, who famously toldon revenge Quentin as Tarentino a concept to in “go 17 fuckminutes. himself” The firstwhen two he tracksasked to‘Sasori collaborate I’ and ‘Sasori with her II’ onare Kill an odeBill, according to guitarist Lao Bi. The tracks are slower than many of Scorpion Prisoner 69’s other songs, with an almost languid and romantic bent, revealing songwriter Lao Bi’s affection for the actress and her ethos. ‘Telling Lies and Making Friends I’ is a much more frenetic speed metal track about the relatable subject of hanging out with people you don’t actually like, including the gleefully cynical chorus, “Right on time, come inside, start telling lies and making friends.”

Listen here: http://i.xiami.com/nq69

The Poem of the Night by Anti Dogs Anti Dogs is the post-rock reincarnation of veteran Shanghainese punk band Top Floor Circus, who called it quits last February after 15 years together. The band is comprised of all the members of Top Floor Circus minus vocalist and frontman Lu Chen. The seven songs on their debut, The Poem of the Night, are understandably a far cry from the witty pop-punk Top Floor Circus was known for, with melancholic strains and delicate, brooding melodies. Subtle vocals are woven into a few of the tracks as more of an instrument than a purveyor of meaning. Most of the tracks clock in between seven and nine minutes, as post-rock songs are wont to do, and all are enjoyable and complex, revealing that the musicians’ decades of experience carried through to aid them in songwriting for a completely different genre.

Listen at: https://antidogs.bandcamp.com/album/the-poem-of-the-night

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ARTS | MUSIC

People always miss a bygone era, but we are also looking forward

on standout songs like ‘Orphans of Asia,’ picts chunky, jagged sculptures made of white which is comprised of what Yan describes as plaster and human hair protruding from “Southeast Asian melodies” and percussion rusted teapots. that comes rolling in waves, with added com- Chui Wan has long been seen as an essential component of Beijing’s live music GOING like vocals. He borrowed the title from a song scene; so much so that they were recently byplexity Taiwanese from chimes, singer Luoa flute Dayou. and Yan’s “The chant-phrase featured on ABC Australia alongside Cui Jian ‘the orphan of Asia’ is a really personal, sub- as representatives of Chinese rock. This was jective one for me,’ he says. ‘I really like this overwhelming to Liu, who reveals that his LONGER image, and I think that in the current context, dad listened to Cui Jian all day long when his it will take on a new meaning.” mom was pregnant with him; his relatives The band members cite a diverse range of and hometown neighbors believe this is why Leading Beijing Rockers - he wanted to be a musician. tronic music and hip-hop like Flying Lotus, Part of Chui Wan’s enduring appeal in Chui Wan Take Their Theinfluences Gaslamp on Killerthe album, and Solange’s from American A Seat atelec Beijing is that they came of age as a band dur- the Table, to African folk to more classic psych ing what many of the city’s staunchest live Complex Third Album on rock like Can, a German experimental band music fans look back on as the ‘D-22 era,' re- from the 70s whose drummer Jaki Liebezeit ferring to the celebrated and now-shuttered a World Tour is one of Chui Wan drummer Li Zichao’s ma- livehouse. “Before D-22, most people in China By Erica Martin understood rock and roll only in the category to classify, but undeniably appealing with its of punk, metal, and blues,” says Liu. “D-22 explorative,jor influences. refractive The resulting psychedelia music that’sis difficult also told them that there were ten thousand pos- uintessential American composer restrained and tightly composed. sibilities for rock and roll and for music: post- Robert Ashley once famously said, - Q“Popular music always ends after mains one of the few bands that have so- Though Chui Wan is quick to acknowl- three minutes.” Chui Wan vocalist Yan Yulong Chui Wan was one of the first and re edgepunk, that no wave, D-22 playedpsychedelic, an essential lo-fi and role so inon.” points this out slyly before explaining the regularly tour abroad, with an upcoming tour their identity and development, they don’t extended length of all the songs on the cel- throughlidified a the reputation US and Europe outside following of China andtheir want themselves or Beijing’s music scene as ebrated band’s intriguing third album, The release shows in Shanghai and Beijing. Signed a whole to grow stagnant by spending too Landscape the Tropics Never Had. “In doing to Maybe Mars Records, they’ve released two much time looking backwards. They’d rather this album, we did not want to do a ‘concept albums of bold, experimental psychedelic build upon what D-22 started. rock prior to The Landscape the Tropics Never “People always miss a bygone era, and explains. “But these six songs have one thing Had, moving with each release toward a lush- certainly this era has its unique charm,” Yan inalbum’ common: or an longer album length.with a unifiedIn the rehearsal ‘theme,’” he er soundscape. Part of the album’s intrigue says. “But of course, we are also looking for- came from its producer Rusty Santos, who ward.” and develop it as much as possible.” is known for working on Animal Collective’s room,This we tactic wanted takes to takethe songs a song’s to evenfirst ideamore “weirder albums,” according to guitarist Liu Find the album at: www.maybemars.com/product/ experimental, genre-bending places than Xinyu. The album’s surreal cover art is from the-landscape-the-tropics-never-had/ Chui Wan has explored previously, especially experimental Beijing artist Li Gang, and de-

34 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

Cover story

Gathering STEAM: China's smokers “Thinking about turn to vaping Chinese smoking statistics is like trying to think about the limits of space.”

– Robert Fletcher, Rothmans’ former regional public affairs manager, 1992

By Jocelyn Richards Additional reporting by Sky Thomas Gidge, Dominic Ngai, Dominique Wong and Tristin Zhang

36/37 f Big Tobacco had a promised land, - it would be China. verging into medical terms (“Morbidity IHome to 320 million smokers – a isa slowthe issue,” confidence he says and at occasionallyone point), Tso di little less than the entire US popula- explains that the real drain and risk to tion – the country literally feeds off Chinese society is not death from to- cigarette sales, generating more in bacco, but mounting medical costs used tobacco tax revenue every year than it to treat patients with cancer, stroke spends annually on the military. and heart disease – all ailments directly Cigarettes in China aren’t merely related to smoking. the sign of a bad habit – they’ve be- China has pledged to curb tobacco come part of the culture. Looking to consumption on a number of occa- show your bao’an some gratitude? sions. In 2003, it signed the WHO Hand him a smoke. Attending a Framework Convention on Tobacco Chinese wedding reception? Expect Control, which called for a ban on to- banquet tables stocked with packs of bacco advertising, major tax hike and Double Happiness. improved cessation assistance – “time Domestic demand alone pushes proven measures in tobacco control,” the state-owned China National according to Tso. Tobacco Corporation to manufacture To China’s credit, some of that has roughly 40 percent of the world’s cig- happened. The government raised arettes every year, making China the the tax on wholesale cigarettes from greatest producer – and consumer – 5 to 11 percent in 2015 and issued a of tobacco in the world. nationwide ban on smoking in public But this is hardly a success story. earlier this year. Perhaps in part due to The tobacco epidemic is one of the First Lady Peng Liyuan’s hard stance biggest public health threats facing towards tobacco, President Xi Jinping China this century. More than one now requires high-level cadres to re- million mainland smokers die prema- frain from smoking in public and dur- turely from tobacco every year, and if ing conferences. current trends continue, that number “These are steps,” Tso tells us. “It’s will rise to two million by 2030, ac- a big country. It takes time. But it is cording to research published in The happening.” Lancet. “The worst of the epidemic isn’t what it claimed was the impact of its here yet. It’s yet to come,” says Dr. newThen, legislation: in 2016, tobacco China consumpfinally saw- Homer Tso, head of the tobacco con- tion was reported to have dropped trol board at the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital and former much – about 2.4 percent according chairman of the Hong Kong Council on tofor Euromonitor the first time – in but 20 enough years. Not to bring by Smoking and Health. China Tobacco to declare, for the When we meet Tso in Shenzhen, he wears a red bowtie and carries world’s largest tobacco market had three business cards. Speaking with gonefirst time into ever,a downward that the spiral.volume of the Cover story

ei Xiang doesn’t remem- decade ago, China might look late Fber hearing about China to the game. But it was a Chinese pharmacist who invented the busy drafting a letter of resigna- Tobacco’stion. first fall – he was too device he hoped would help him It was October 2016, and quitfirst smokinge-cigarette after back the in same 2003 habit – a the 27-year-old had resolved to killed his father. quit his desk job and open a vape In the years following his shop in Guangzhou with a friend. invention, a production hub was established in southern China, ex- on one day. porting hardware to countries all They“We figured saw therevaping was might potential catch over the globe. Today, roughly 90 for this market. It was new, after percent of the world’s e-cigarettes all, and there could be opportu- and vaporizers still come from nities.” Shenzhen. Like iPhones, brand- Now in what Fei calls a name vapes are manufactured in “period of rapid development,” China and exported abroad before China’s vaping industry is ex- returning to the mainland again panding too fast not to notice. as ‘imports’ and taxed accord- Whereas just two years ago, it ingly. would have been hard to spot a Until recently, the Chinese government had little reason to Shanghai or Guangzhou, today, regulate the industry. Vaping de- therevape shop are close in first-tier to a hundred cities like in vices were primarily created for each, all selling a wide range of overseas consumers, after all, not vaporizers and e-liquids. Chinese. As China moves to lower But as a growing number of tobacco use, vaping looks poised mainlanders adopt the hobby and to play a pivotal role, offering open vape shops of their own, the smokers an increasingly conveni- dearth of regulatory framework is ent – and potentially healthier turning out to be a big problem. – alternative to cigarettes. When applying for a busi- “The culture is develop- ness license for his shop, Vape ing quite quickly, since people Club, last fall, Fei says he could are raising their standards for choose from any number of clas- health,” suggests Brian Bai, trade, tech, bio-tech and even ‘cul- vape lounge, which opened last turalsifications: development’ electronics, company wholesale – all December.the founder “Vaping of Tianjin’s is no first doubt of which have been used to regis- seeing an upwards trend, and ter vape retailers in the past. cigarettes will slowly get replaced by vape.” at me and asked, ‘so what are you Vape store owners across the actually“The selling, licensing tobacco official products looked country agree that the industry’s or electronics?’ and I just said, ‘big boom’ started in late 2016, though distributors in northern this thing, but our products are China were developing the mar- probably‘well, there closest is still to no electronics law to define – ket as early as 2013. there is no tobacco involved – so Compared to the West, where vaping gained traction a electronics store.’” we’ll just define our shop as an 38/39 “THE CULTURE IS DEVELOPING QUICKLY” Cover story

onfusion over what exactly constitutes is rudimentary at best. Can e-cigarette isn’t unique to China – a Fei says his favorite reactions come Google search rounds up plenty of litera- from elderly who spot him vaping on the ture on the subject. street. While the media often refers to all “They’ll say to me, ‘Why is the smoke vaping devices as ‘e-cigarettes,’ the term is so big? It's like a chimney!’ Or, ‘There must typically reserved for those that look and be chemicals in that. You should stick with feel like traditional cigarettes. E-cigs sold classic cigarettes, young man.’” What most people don’t realize, he says, is that the chemicals found in e-liquids optionsin convenience and are stores disposable. come with prefilled (propylene glycol) are used in many pro- cartridgesThen there of e-liquid, are ‘vaporizers,’ have limited the flavor devic - cessed foods too. “We consume this stuff every day in China, they just don’t know it.” span from ‘advanced personal vaporizers’ Still, hesitancy towards vaping remains, (APVs)es you’ll or find ‘vape in anpens’ actual to walkie-talkie-size vape shop that and not only among Chinese laobaixing. ‘mods,’ which are more customizable and Last November, the WHO warned all 180 more expensive. Instead of replacing car- signatories of the Framework Convention tridges, users pour fresh e-liquid into the on Tobacco Control that electronic smok- device. Vaporizers, not e-cigarettes, are ing devices are “unlikely to be harmless,” what make the subculture. and long-term use is expected to increase As for whether they’re healthier than the risk of various diseases associated with traditional cigarettes, well, a strong scien- smoking. Others warn that vaping, with its color- a study released by Public Health England intific 2015, consensus vaping now was suggestsfound to theybe 95 are. per In- tends to attract youth, and could be a gate- cent less harmful than smoking tobacco. wayful apparatuses into smoking. and candy-flavored e-juices, This past February, new research carried The Hong Kong government is among by the Annals of Internal Medicine ce- those to cite the ‘gateway’ argument, one mented the claim that e-cigarettes are “far of the reasons it plans to outlaw all e- safer” than smoking and have low risks cigarettes by next year. Already, possessing associated with long-term use. or selling an e-cigarette liquid containing In China, though, where awareness nicotine in Hong Kong carries a potential of tobacco’s health effects is still limited, penalty of up to two years in prison and a knowledge of vaping’s impact on the body

HKD100,000 fine. 40/41 The teenagers we meet in China’s vape stores, however, all say they were smokers long before they tried vaping, and their claim isn’t surprising. About two-thirds of young men in China smoke, and most start before the age of 20, according to research published in The Lancet from two large, nationally rep- resentative studies conducted 15 years apart. Smoking – at least in China – is more likely a gateway to vaping, and not the other way around. “Every smoker is a potential vaper,” says Sean Dickinson, cofounder of Shanghai Vape, one of just three vape stores in the city when it opened in 2015. Though most of his customers are young, tattooed males between the ages of 20 and 35 (“your typical early adopters in China”), Dickinson says the smoking crowd promises plenty of diversity. “There’s a huge mix of vapers, just like how smokers span all sorts of demographic groups,” he explains, adding that it’s important to differentiate between people who are trying to quit smoking and those who consider vaping a hobby. “People who are trying to give up smoking could be anyone – 68-year-old retired Shanghainese men to college students.” Hobbyists, on the other hand, are typically young. Like most subcultures in China, Dickinson says vaping is bred and kept alive online. Every vape shop has its own WeChat group, and vapers are constantly posting about the latest gadgets. But even with its growing online community, Dickinson claims vaping is still in the early adopter phase in China. “It takes time to change, same as in the West…” he explains. “You need a certain number of people to get to a tipping point for vaping to become mainstream and culturally acceptable.” He estimates it will take China “maybe another year” to get to that tipping point. “EVERY SMOKER IS A POTENTIAL VAPER”

Top left: Fei Xiang shows new mod to 17-year- old regular (photo by Jocelyn Richards) Bottom right: Sean Dickinson in Shanghai Vape (photo by Dominic Ngai) Cover story

cquiring mainstream acceptance might only be half the bat- Atle. China’s vaping market is still new and largely unregu- E-cigarette suppliers and ‘lowballers’ are just a small sample of the problems facinglated, andvape numerous retailers today.challenges persist. Fake products, fickle Kiki Cheung, marketing manager for Shenzhen-based e-liquid line Aspire, says questions over fake e-juices abound. It’s often unclear what raw materials are used in their manufacture, she

are a serious problem. For consumers, using fake vape juices af- Vape pen or 'APV' fectssays, notand onlyfactory the conditions vaping experience remain abut mystery. also their “[Fake health.” e-liquids] And then there’s the issue of lowballing, where reputable e- liquids are sold well below their listing price, jeopardizing brands – and the stability of the entire industry – in the process. Such has been the experience of Tommy Lin, a former PGA pro golfer who, at the request of a distant relative, invested in a Shenzhen vape factory in 2007. He later moved into the e-juice business through Organic Labs – a Las Vegas-based company that Vape 'mod' manufactures high-grade e-liquids designed by a master mixolo- gist and culinarian. Their biggest customer? China, of course. It wasn't until Lin visited a vape show in Shenzhen in 2015,

The market, he says, is unlike the usual mix of manufacturers, wholesalershowever, that and he consumersaw the Chinese retail shopsdemand that for exist e-liquid in the first-hand. US. “In

buy.”China, it’s almost like a multi-level marketing scheme, [e-liquids] probablyLin entered go through the Chinese six or seven market hands with before 10 e-liquids reaching in 2015.the final Now, only three are still selling. “Two or three lines, I had to learn 90% a lesson – I gave it to the wrong guy and got burned.” of the world’s He says his company often has to go on Taobao to get rid vapes are produced in chain is lowballing and dumping stuff on Taobao, then the third andof counterfeits second guy and are underpricednot going to buy,”e-juices. he explains. “If the fifth guy on the Shenzhen The inconsistency of prices is a complaint shared by many - VICE vape stores owners we talk to, including Fei in Guangzhou.

same exact e-liquid and pay a completely different price for each of them.“This One industry of them is toomight chaotic. turn outYou to might be fake. buy Or five it’s bottles real but of the you paid too much for it.” No source is 100 percent reliable, according to Fei. Even suppliers he knows personally have sent him fakes by accident, claiming they couldn’t visibly tell the difference. “I just hope the country will introduce laws to supervise this,” he says, taking a long hit on a new China-designed mod by Vape Kungfu. “So that this industry can develop healthily, unlike now, where there is no order and it’s all up to the individual.” 182% The markup on Smok brand vapes we find made in Shenzhen and sold in the US What's in e-juice? - propylene glycol - glycerin - water - nicotine (0-36mg) - flavorings 42/43 “THIS INDUSTRY IS TOO CHAOTIC”

COVER STORY / 43 Cover story

n 2015, the National Health and Family due to lobbying by cigarette companies. IPlanning Commission stated its intent Otherwise, he asks, why would the country to regulate the production, sale and use of outlaw devices that “essentially turn gel- e-cigarettes on the mainland. But so far, no atin-based liquid into steam” and legalize restrictions have been enforced. something that heats real tobacco? China is one of the few countries “Big tobacco companies are looking to in Asia (along with South Korea, the Philippines and part of Malaysia) that also pushing for higher taxes or equal taxes still allows vaping. Brunei, Cambodia, onget e-cigarettes.” in on the [e-smoking] But if vaping market… devices They’re truly Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand and are safer than newfangled ‘heat-not-burn’ Vietnam have all banned e-cigarettes, cigarettes, he believes issuing a lower tax while Japan restricts any device that con- on them is in the best interest of countries tains or dispenses nicotine. in the long term. Fei predicts it might not be e-ciga- “These are debates that governments rettes that eventually push Chinese law- really haven’t had,” says McMillan. “If makers to regulate the vaping industry, but tobacco. on the public health system down the line A relatively new (and still untaxed) –[vapes] fewer arepeople healthier, with lung it places cancer less and strain fewer technology known as ‘heat-not-burn’ ciga- people missing work.” rettes, he says, has recently entered China And that, ultimately, is a choice China and is already taking Japan and South has to make. Will the country rely on smok- Korea by storm. Designed to heat tobacco ing cessation alone to avert the human sticks just enough to release a flavorful and economic consequences of a tobacco nicotine-containing vapor – but no smoke epidemic? Or, will it choose to support an – heat-not-burn devices supposedly emit fewer harmful chemicals than cigarettes, while still offering the same feel. conventionalalternative that, cigarettes? while not flawless, has Online ads for popular brand iQos beenRegardless, shown to be the significantly future of vaping, safer thanit have perked Chinese netizens’ interest, seems, still largely hinges on the future of with some commenting they’ll try any tobacco. alternative that offers a realistic smok- “I think that the present government ing experience – even if it is outrageously hasn’t really decided how seriously to take expensive. smoking,” Sir Richard Peto, an epidemiolo- iQos is the latest product from tobacco gist who has studied smoking rates in China giant Philip Morris International, and an attempt to cash in on an industry that’s England. “There’s been a lot done for health increasingly ‘electrifying,’ as Alex Frew insince China the over 80s, thetells last us 10-15from his years. office Death in McMillan, a Hong Kong-based freelance re- rates are going down. Smoking is one of the few things that is trending in the opposite An avid vaper himself, McMillan direction... and I just hope they will choose saysporter the at success Dragonfly of iQos Media, in Japanputs it. is likely to take it seriously.” ““SMOKINGSMOKING RATESRATES AREARE TRENDINGTRENDING ININ THETHE WRONGWRONG DIRECTION...DIRECTION... II JUSTJUST HOPEHOPE THEYTHEY WILLWILL CHOOSECHOOSE TOTO TAKETAKE ITIT SERIOUSLYSERIOUSLY””

Scan here to watch our interviews with Chinese laobaixing on the street and see what they think about vaping. 44/45 COMM UNITY

A Modest Success Shenzhen's Pride weekend plays it cool, p52

Take Five Full STEAM Ahead P49 P54

46 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM FEATURE

CHARLOTTE FLAIR All Hail the Queen By Bailey Hu

“That’s what a champion looks like,” the commentator intoned as Charlotte Flair, resplendent in blue sequined robe and massive ‘Divas Champion’ belt, walked with her father, WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair, towards two opponents in the ring last April.

After some judicious laying of smackdown combined with sly underhand tactics, Flair emerged victorious to claim the newly minted title of WWE Women’s Champion.

‘The Queen’ has since gone on to make more dramatic entrances and score other wins, but last year’s match remains a proud memory that, for her, marked “the beginning of a new era for women” in the WWE.

During her recent visit to Shenzhen to promote the upcoming WWE LIVE China, we talked to ‘The Genetically Superior Athlete’ about female wrestlers’ shift from ‘divas’ to ‘athletes,’ following in her father’s footsteps and what it’s like to play a villainous character on TV.

knowing that I’m playing a character. portant storylines and that we are the focus as Who is Charlotte Flair, and how has that well, even from a brand standpoint. When you character changed over time? How has women’s wrestling in the WWE see that the WWE is coming to China, I want changed since you joined, and what role - the women to be just as important as the male did you play? tinuing a legacy. She has an obsession with superstars that are coming here. That we are an herCharlotte own perfection. Flair is dominant, She strives confident, to be the con best I think it’s a collaboration and effort from all attraction. in the business. She’s the queen of wrestling. the women working together. I just happen You came with WWE to Shanghai last year? She’s evolved over time from needing a man- to be at the right place at the right time, with ager to being on her own to being at the fore- really talented women who all share the same Yes, I was with Sasha Banks. The experience, it front of the women’s division. passion for women’s wrestling. I think I repre- sent athletes in the WWE versus just beautiful feel the energy from the fans. We hadn’t been to How much does the character draw off girls. We’re not just to be pretty, but we’re China,was my I thinkfirst time in 10 in years, China so and it wasyou exciting.could just your own personality? there to be just as good as the men. What’s something fans would never guess Is your dad’s (WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair) started, I played sports my whole life so I about you? reputation a burden, or do you see it as an as- wasn’tNot that comfortable I’m not confident, with doing but whenmy makeup I first set? I’m shy. and dressing up and being this image of what used to be called a diva. I had to learn how to Both. Being a generational kid is hard. I Really? carry myself in a different way and to be in couldn’t just, you know, show up one day as Yeah, I just faced my fears. It doesn’t mean So I took all of that, and when I walk however they wanted to. I already carried a I’m still not shy and every time I have to go front of the camera and [deal] with criticism. lasta 5’10” name blonde they andknew, [have] so I from the crowd day one view was me through that curtain and be on TV, I feel sick compared to him. That’s kind of what’s driven through that curtain, I find that confidence me to where I am today. I want to be known But then, once my music hits and I walk out as his daughter, but I also want to be known and I’m like ‘Why am I doing this?’ [laughs] for my own work as well. So that’s a mixed explain. It’s where I feel home. blessing. there it’s just a certain confidence that I can’t WWE Live China in Shenzhen, Sun Sept 17, 7.30pm; What do you want your own legacy for the RMB180-2,080, Shenzhen Bay Sports Center, 3001 WWE to be? Binhai Dadao, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 深圳市南山区滨海大道3001号 (0755 8630 8888, tickets available on That I helped change the landscape for women en.damai.cn). This interview was condensed and edited in the company… That we are given just as im- for clarity.

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 47 COMM AROUND TOWN UNITY

DEAR JAMIE Canucking Around

Dear Jamie, I’m a Chinese guy living with my Canadian girlfriend. We’ve been dating for almost a year now. She’s hot and I like her very much. I want my parents to like her too, but she doesn’t speak Mandarin and has no inten-

and drinks in public. tion Onof learning. a Friday night,Besides we [she went also] out smokes for dinner

blue she stuck her chopsticks in the middle offor a the bowl first of timerice, which,with my in parents. our custom, Out ofis thevery disrespectful. Shocked to her core, my mom, a very traditional woman, arose to take those chopsticks down, and it upset her. I explained to my girlfriend how her - rage and told me she is not Chinese and could doaction anything was impolite, she wanted but shewith flew her intochopsticks. an out In China we have a saying: when you enter a village, live by its customs. How can I persuade her to stop embarrassing people SOCIAL SKILLS with her ignorance? -Gutless in Guangdong Shenzhen Celts Gaelic Football Club Dear distress(ed), Let’s take a step back from language Gaelic football, one of Ireland’s most popular After mastering the basics, players can learning, public drinking and your mother’s national sports, looks a bit like what would hap- look forward to two tournaments a year: the shocked core to look at the big picture: not pen if soccer and basketball got kinky with a All-China Games, where they’ll face teams from the reeducation of a brazen Canuck, but the couple of football goalposts. Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Suzhou, fol- dynamic of your relationship overall. Perhaps not as visible as Shenzhen’s rugby lowed by the Asia Games. Inter-culture dating is – and this is the scene, Gaelic football in Shenzhen has been go- The Celts’ track record may be impressive perfect word for it – a bitch. Often, the only ing strong since arriving in 2004. thing holding East-meets-West couples to- Local team manager Craig Berrigan de- the All-China Games – but the club values cama- gether through misunderstandings and mis- scribes the game as involving a ‘mix of a few dif- raderie– last season, as much the as women’s competition. team placedMonthly first meet at communication is affection – an affection that ferent skillsets’ from various sports. Vague de- ups at The Brew see members come together moves both sides to understand and adapt. scriptions aside, players bounce, catch, and kick for brunch and table quizzes. a leather ball with the goal looking like a soccer Practice started in late August but it’s not net with two large poles extending above it. of learningWhen your from girlfriend it, she reacts makes with a flubanger. – and Not Newcomers can get the hang of it in just this month. good.these flubs will continue, be assured – instead a couple weeks, Berrigan says, with the help too late to join, as the season officially begins Sit down with her. Have a chat. Explain of the six or seven trainers who supervise the Add Berrigan on WeChat ‘berrimerriman’ to be your position while acknowledging the onus team’s Friday practices. Beer specials at the Evil invited into the group. Membership is free for locals is equally on you to set the sails for smooth Duck brewpub afterwards don’t hurt either. and RMB450 per season for foreigners. sailing. If she accepts the situation for what it is: grand. Otherwise, plugging those chopsticks into the rice may not have marked a death but the end of your relationship. -Jamie Got a problem? Jamieinchina@outlook. com.

48 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM [email protected]

TAKE FIVE Johnny Morgan What’s the most outrageous thing you’ve If you like billiards, football, beer or good seen in a Guangzhou pub? banter, chances are you know this guy. The friendly, father-like pub proprietor is a Pubs open early for Super Bowl Monday in staple of the Guangzhou food and beverage Guangzhou, and one year after a crazy, crazy scene, and has been in the city long enough match, an American kid took a poo on a table (nine years) to experience some weird sh*t. in the bar. After that he locked himself in the This month, we pulled Johnny aside to ask washroom and we had to kick down the door to get him out.

Whofive semi-ridiculous is the most famous questions. person to ever Make love to one, kill one and marry walk through the doors of Morgan’s one: Michael Jackson, Whoopi Goldberg, Public House? Margaret Thatcher. Jimmy White, a world-famous snooker I’d make love to Whoopi, I’d kill Thatcher and player. He is actually a friend of ours, and he I’d marry Michael – for his money of course. used to come over sometimes and play pool. Rumor has it you’re fighting in the up- When you have family and friends come coming White Collar Fight in Guangzhou, visit, which Guangzhou landmark do you what can boxing enthusiasts expect from take them to first? ‘Captain Johnny’? The Canton Tower – it’s the most iconic They can expect some less than pretty skills, place in town. Everyone wants to know what but my robe will look awesome. it is, so I take them over to have a look. And, of course, the Cave Bar… (kidding).

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 49 COMMUNITY | FEATURE

On stage, with blown-up photos of drag queens and DJs in the background, the partygoers took turns to scan a QR code, then knock back shots and pose for pictures, all while proudly holding up a sign reading ‘I’ve just donated to LGBT charities!’

Its overall success high- parade.’ winning a workplace bias law- kick off what organizers had lighted not only positive growth Events were restrained suit cancel out a ban on homo- Ipromisedt seemed like to be a fittinga ‘better way and to in Shenzhen, but in mainland rather than raucous – the roster sexual-related content online?), more fabulous’ Pride weekend in - Shanghai Pride is nevertheless Shenzhen this past July. Pride celebration in the region, a tions and an academic debate an establishment, with a total of The lineup of events featured weeklongChina as well: fest theof LGBTQ-friendly first-ever –included and were film hosted screenings, in private exhibi 34 events held over four months a repeat of 2016’s inaugural events in Shanghai, took place venues. Even then, some were this past year. Pride pool party, an opening less than a decade ago, in 2009. canceled ‘because government That may be the dream of night mixer that combined fund- It was also, despite the name, authorities intervened,’ as a Pride organizers in Shenzhen raising with a lip-syncing contest relatively humble. China Daily writer put it. but for now, they’re focusing on and a night at the club, with As a Newsweek article at the Fast forward eight years smaller goals. appearances by go-go dancers, time reported, ‘the government and while LGBTQ rights haven’t Not getting their events models and drag queens sprin- didn't have to rain on Shanghai's made noticeable progress in canceled, for instance. kled throughout. gay parade because there was no the mainland (does a trans man In the weeks before the lo-

50 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM FEATURE | COMMUNITY

TASTE THE RAINBOW Summer Pride in Shenzhen

By Bailey Hu

cal edition of Pride kicked off, “never a question of shutdown” mall instead, followed by an im- gave out free condoms over the organizers were wary. This past as the team had feared. Police promptu group dance. weekend. June, Guangzhou’s PRiDe group didn’t accost attendees or organ- Another seemingly small but SZUMMER Pride organizers, had had to cancel a major party izers, and the only complaint with support from Guangzhou’s and family-oriented BBQ at the came from neighbors who found of ticket sales and donations, PRiDe group – in a symbolic ges- last minute. a DJ too loud. Pridesignificant raised victory: over RMB3,400 through a for cut ture, the two share a set of rain- In response the SZUMMER As a result, Pride weekend Pride group was “extra careful,” enjoyed healthy attendance at Parents and Friends of to continue making “the city a bit releasing venue locations only three main events. A typhoon Lesbianstwo Chinese and nonprofits. Gays (PFLAG) morebow flags fun” andwith other a greater items variety – plan to those who purchased tickets brought an end to the fourth, a China hold workshops to help of events next year. and being selective with their free outdoor picnic, but organ- overcome prejudice and in- Will they be scaling up the advertisement. izers rallied a small group to crease awareness of LGBTQ size of the fest as well? According In hindsight, organizer Alex take a “quick stroll” of Pride issues, while Zhitong promote McCutcheon said, there was around the Coco Park shopping safe sex practices and even no reason” why not. to McCutcheon, the group “[sees]

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 51 COMMUNITY | EDUCATION

FULL STEAM AHEAD The Case for Inquiry in Education By Lena Gidwani

f you are familiar with the educational or deeper exploration, are in fact very relevant. the greatest questions facing our world (and technology sectors, you have undoubtedly STEAM has little place for standardized humanity) will not be answered by a single Iheard about STEM, or as the cool kids assessment testing and rote teaching. It body of knowledge or practice, but by a true like to call it, STEAM. After all, it’s been at the strives instead to prepare students for what forefront of education for the last decade. we adults experience in real life and in our and disciplines. Once you’ve graduated from What is STEAM, and why is it playing competitive workplaces. highand meaningful school or university, combination no one’s of skills, going fields to such a big role in (the future of) education? So how does one implement STEAM on a care if you forgot the roots of a quadratic An educational approach to transdisci- day-to-day basis? It’s easy! If you’re teaching equation, but they will revel at your ability to plinary learning, STEAM stands for science, at an international school where the language take on multiple projects, lead teams based technology, engineering, arts and mathemat- of instruction is English, for example, ask a in different corners of the world and analyze ics. The ‘a’ for arts is a very recent addition, student to explain how they conducted a sci- - and has transformed how STEM subjects are ence experiment in their second language ered before. taught, adding an element of fun, excitement (French, anyone?), or to create a video pres- dataReturning to reveal integralto Lewin’s findings quote, never learning consid oc- and creativity to guide student inquiry, dia- entation using handmade visuals. curs when a student answers a question, but logue and critical thinking. The end result? By presenting to a group of peers, col- understanding comes about when he/she Innovation, exploration and understanding, questions an answer; these two processes are ideally. reciprocally exclusive, yet complexly related. There's a reason why STEAM is being conductlaborative the evaluation same experiment and reflection in other occurs, ways? And it is this cyclical progression of learning championed heavily in learning institutions, Perhaps.just like in You real might life. Canjust theyset the find scene solutions for their to and understanding that set a solid founda- and why so many schools, teachers and mysterious future careers as a (bilingual) tion for inquiry and innovation, nurturing the students are excited about it. In traditional scientist with top-notch public-speaking problem-solving skills our children will need schools, each subject is taught in a separate, skills. In fact, current research tells us that in tomorrow’s world. Most of our inventions contained lesson. But rather than keeping when considering the kinds of jobs our future and discoveries would have never seen the these key subjects separate, with STEAM, light of day if not for the continual process of they are mixed together so students study in the highest demand. asking and answering questions. more than one subject and use multiple skills workforce will need to fill, STEAM skills are As a parent of two (thus inevitably a life- at the same time, engaging their curiosity and of education, I often mention to parents that long inquirer), I constantly urge my young strengthening their critical thinking skills in As someone who also works in the field children to discuss, analyze and challenge ways that are applicable to the real world. what they must for a better world, to foster, The buzz words here are ‘transdiscipli- instill and inspire their curious, developing nary inquiry.’ Quite simply, STEAM compels minds. They may not grow up to become students to ask open-ended questions that scientists, engineers or designers, but at least might not seem to connect to the subject at they will grow up knowing how to think like hand when taken at face value, but that, upon one. Full STEAM ahead!

52 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM HEALTH | COMMUNITY

WHAT IS THE COMMON COLD? Exploring the Causes and Treatment of Viral Upper Respiratory Infections By Dr. Leila Sabet

h, the common cold. It’s one of the most frequent causes of illness as well Aas the main reason for doctor visits, especially among children. Colds, or viral upper respiratory infections, can cause a constellation of possible symptom combinations including fever, cough, runny nose or nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, dizziness and fatigue. Most common colds are concentrated in the winter and early spring months, but can occur any time. They are acquired through contact with the little water droplets that come from our respiratory tracts (saliva and respiratory secretions). As children have the youngest and most naive immune systems, they are the most vulnerable. So, how can we treat the common cold? Although caused by virus infection, anti- biotic prescription rates for a common cold can be very high. This can be extremely mis- leading to patients and families, causing them to believe that these illnesses can be cured or treated by antibiotics. In fact, antibiotics have no impact on viruses at all, due to the very different structural makeup of viruses compared to bacteria. Viral upper respiratory infections are self-limited, meaning our body’s immune system will eliminate it and the person will recover completely naturally without any medication. Will a common cold ever turn into complications, but they can be used to treat Treatment focus should be on comfort something more serious? Usually, no. But them if they occur. measures and symptom relief for the pa- on rare occasions, the virus in the upper tient. In small babies, clearing of the nasal respiratory tract may spread down to the and stressful for parents, they certainly are secretions is the primary focus. Using nasal lower airways and cause inflammation, a normalAlthough part common of childhood. colds As can we be are difficult ex- saline drops or spray along with gentle nasal potentially forcing the lower airways to posed to more and more viruses throughout suction can help the infant feed and breathe constrict and the cells lining these airways our life, our immune system’s ‘memory’ can more easily. When infants and toddlers are produce a lot of mucus, both of which cause - breastfeeding, the breast milk contains many less airflow to the lungs. tions faster and faster. With time, we be- potent immune factors to help them recover If this happens, a young child will appear comekeep us less protected ill with repeated so that we exposure fight off or infec even faster, reduce the risk of complications and to be working harder to breath than normal. In these situations, he or she can use nebu- the virus quickly. children, the primary source of relief is drink- lized medications that work to help the bron- do not become sick at all as our body fights ingprovide plenty the of needed warm andfluid hot hydration. liquids. WarmIn older chioles relax and open up more easily. Dr. Leila Sabet is certified by the American Board liquids can help sooth the upper respiratory A viral upper respiratory infection could of Pediatrics. She currently works as a pediatrician tract and help loosen secretions for effective also lead to a ‘secondary’ bacterial infec- at United Family removal by the child. tion. This is when the virus has made the Guangzhou Clinic, 1/F, Cough and cold medications are not rec- body a little vulnerable and the immune Annex, PICC Bldg, 301 ommended in young children, as controlled - Guangzhou Dadao studies have shown they lack evidence of any tion that it normally would have no trouble Zhong, Yuexiu District, system is not able to fight off bacterial infec Guangzhou 广州市越秀区广州大道中301号人 side effects and are potentially dangerous in 保大厦附楼首层 (4008- thisbenefit age in group. children Honey and has they been have shown a high in risk sev of- notfighting. generalized. Bacterial The infections most common are almost loca - always specific to an area of the body and 919191, emergency: eral studies to help alleviate cough and throat tions are the middle ear compartment (otitis 8620 8710 6060, www. irritation and may be used for some relief. As media), the sinuses in children older than 8 ufh.com.cn) long as the child is older than one year, honey years (sinusitis), or the lungs (pneumonia). is very safe and has no side effects. Antibiotics will not prevent these bacterial

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 53 CITY SCENES

Secret Spot Pool Party at the Ritz-Carlton, Shenzhen (Supported by ) July 30 saw Shenzhen partygoers beat the heat at the Secret Spot Pool Party, which was hosted, in collaboration with That’s PRD, by Paletto Italian

spot BBQ. Drinks included Ferrari Trento DOC, Aix Rosé, Vedett Beer and Perrier Water and various cocktails. Skezz Phonic MCed the event, while DJ Lucas,Restaurant Latina and Bambina The Ritz and Carlton, Doffy Shenzhendropped beats at the to hotel’s entertain outdoor the crowd. fifth-floor The pool.event Served wouldn’t up haveby Paletto been werepossible paninis, without salads, the supportpasta and of grilled-on-the- Nuvole di Emma, Inalca, Maison Delice and Shenzhen HarMoniCare Women and Children's Hospital.

That’s Food and Drink Tasting at The Locksmith

The Locksmith, located in Foshan’s Lingnan Tiandi, saw That's PRD’s Food & Drink Tasting series on July 30. Featuring an exquisite selection of dishes and house drinks, the event invited the magazine’s VIP clients and readers to savor the creme de la creme of The Locksmith’s tantalizing dishes. Highlights included theatrical house drinks, lavish Australian recipes and DIY cocktails made with teas by the renowned German brand Teekanne.

54 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM 2017 International Vertical Marathon Guangzhou Series (Supported by ) On August 8, the fourth edition of this year’s International Vertical Marathon Guangzhou Series was held at OneLink Walk in addition to an entertaining ‘Bubble Run.’ More than 500 runners climbed to the top of the 222-meter-high building, while a colorful bubble surrounded the venue. A street basketball team entertained participants, as did live a musician. Liu Zhisen and Zhou Qinglan were the respective champions in male and female groups, completing the course in 6 minutes and 10 seconds and 8 minutes and 18 seconds. The Guangzhou finals will be held at R&F Center on September 24.

LN Garden Hotel Celebrates 32nd Anniversary Switzerland’s National Day

(Supported by ) (Supported by )

LN Garden Hotel, Switzerland’s 726th birthday was celebrated at the Grand Hyatt observed its 32nd anniversary with a themed party on August 18. The Guangzhou on August 1, with members of the local Swiss community Guangzhou, the city’s very first five-star luxury hotel, - showing up in the Alpine country’s traditional garments. Accompanied male jazz singer of China. The evening in the hotel’s grand ballroom was highlight of the occasion was a performance by Maria Wong, the first fe by his wife, Consul General Didier Boschung made an appearance at the Garden Hotel’s restaurants are among the city's best dining venues, of- - feringfilled with a delectable entertainment array of enjoyed fare such by asa total the authentic of over 500 Cantonese attendees. cuisine LN ship between Switzerland and China. at Peach Blossom, local favorite Dim Sum at Lai Wan Market, as well as occasion and gave a speech about the healthy and flourishing relation the finest steak at The Connoisseur.

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 55 PRD FOCUS

s part of the semester’s orientation, AISG welcomed over 700 new and Areturning families to campus for the start of the 2017-18 school year. Students and parents visited the new state-of-the-art theater, and toured the new playground, up- - graded reception area and modern cafeteria Oingn August 30th anniversary23, GL events of and the Lingnanestablishment Group of officially Twin Cities signed of Guangzhouan agreement and at Lyon, LN Garden the sign - facilities. ing is a Hotel,testament Guangzhou to the two to hold cities’ the ongoing Bocuse cooperation. d’Or Asia-Pacific on May 8 and 9 in 2018. At the com

press release about Malaysian brand n August 12, Urban Family joined hands with Guangzhou Trinity International A mooncakes was held at Guangzhou he British School of Guangzhou held OKindergarten to hold a ‘Move with MarriottMusan Hotel King’s Tianhe durian-flavored on August 3. ‘Ice ‘ice skin’ skin’ Orientation Days from August 15-17 for Minions’ party. After taking photos with the mooncakes are a variation of the traditional Tthe start of another ambitious academic adorable minions, the 20 attending families Chinese treat, and have a crust made of glu- year. Parents and students were welcomed back enjoyed a school seminar, classes and a fun to meet teachers and catch up with friends. cheerleading class by Varsity coaches. tinous rice rather than flour. They have been wildly popular in China for the past five years.

56 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

FOOD, DRINK & EVENTS IN SHENZHEN

A Ballet of Swans Russian precision takes the stage at Children's Palace, p70

An OCT Oldie Michelin Material? P60 P68

58 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM FEATURE

SINO-SAVVY SHOPPER How to Get the Most Out of Your Local Wet Market By Gary Bailer

Wet markets (菜市场, cài shìchǎng) are a ma- 3. Go early know how to say numbers one through 20, jor part of culinary exploration while living and maybe the phrase “Tài guìle ba!” (come Yeah, we don’t want to get out of bed early in South China. They house vegetables, fruits, on, that’s too expensive). Learning food- either, but remember: the early bird gets the spices, fungi and all manner of living and related phrases, like “Zhège xīnxiān ma?” (is worm. While some wet markets will replen- deceased creatures – from snakes, toads and this fresh?), will also come in handy when ish their stock throughout the day, many look scorpions to more traditional livestock (from checking food quality. pretty sparse by the late afternoon. To avoid a Western perspective anyway) like chickens disappointment – or leaving with a mushy and pigs. 7. Learn which foodstuffs are in season onion – visit between 7-10am. Venturing into your local wet market Looking for a mango in February at your lo- can be an overwhelming task; hell, the smell 4. Check multiple stalls alone is overwhelming most of the time. To luck. Star fruit in July? Same story. Learn the get the most out of your next local open-air Most, if not all wet markets, will have numer- seasonscal wet market? that your You favorite may find fruits, you're veggies out ofand food market experience, consider these nine ous stalls selling the same products. Our seafood products are available. handy tips. advice is to shop around, particularly as a foreigner, before making a purchase. You 8. Produce with insect bite marks isn’t 1. Wear shoes you don’t care about actually bad one vendor over another. If you have ever visited a wet market, you may find tomatoes are cheaper or fresher at Fruits and veggies that have visible insect - 5. Bargain chomp marks are less likely to have been ten than not with chicken or turtle or what- sprayed with heavy pesticides. So, if you are everwill know blood. the In floorour frog-shopping is generally wet, escapades, more of Like most markets in China, don't be afraid looking for food that’s not laced with chemi- our editors have ruined more than one pair to bargain to get a better price. Although cals, opt for the bug-chowed goods. of suede shoes, so our advice to you is to toss some vendors may be unwilling to haggle, on footwear you aren’t overly passionate others are more than happy to knock a cou- 9. Wash your hands after visiting about. ple renminbi off your cow tongue purchase. Wet markets have birds. Birds carry avian 2. Breathe through your mouth 6. Know the Chinese words for the products you're buying This may sound like silly advice, but wet you.flu. Markets So, remember are considered to wash youra major hands. source of markets stink – simple as that. Any place Knowing how to say tudou (potato) won’t H7N9 infections in humans. Avian flu can kill where chickens, ducks, frogs and snakes are be essential every time you visit the market, Did we miss something? Share your wisdom with us defecating, urinating and bleeding is bound because, you know, most of the produce is at [email protected]. not to smell too pleasant.

laid out in the open to browse. But definitely WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 59 GRAPE VINE THE SCANDALOUS SCOOP We’re Daigging:

The cashless, self-serve taps at Bao’an’s King’s Bar; the quality Cantonese cuisine at non-bank breaking price points over at Canton 8; the 1979 area’s continued rise with Mon Saigon’s date-friendly rooftop bar; the frequent hip-hopping of Chinese artists trekking through our fair city.

OLDIE BUT GOODIE

We’re Done with: Yangzong Rice Noodles

seasonings into a giant bowl of soup. teeming with quirky cafes and inventive For the non-noodle-inclined, Yangzong galleries,Shenzhen’s but official solid foodart district at down-to-earth OCT-Loft is also serves shredded chicken and rice in broth prices? Not so much. (RMB28) with chili powder and salt placed on Enter Yangzong Rice Noodles, possibly the side – a boon for some, as pre-seasoned the neighborhood’s best-kept secret. It’s lo- dishes here tend towards the salty side. cated halfway down a side street, its single Portion sizes are generous and each doorway distinguished by a modest sign. meal comes with a pair of inexplicably long Inside, carved wooden furniture and chopsticks, giving diners the illusion of eat- serving utensils appear antique, while a ing at a giant’s table. colorful framed picture of Buddha adorns If there’s still room left over after the one wall. meal, though, we recommend the home- Shuiwei food street’s sudden shutter- It’s a simple look to go with simple, A few minutes to let it all settle, and then blackouts; the typhoon-ery of Hato that meat rice noodles in clear broth (RMB25) it’smade, on unsweetenedto the next stop ‘Tibet in Shenzhen’s yogurt’ (RMB10). most toppleding; the stiflingtrees and heat canceled and AC-inspired classes; our andfilling three food. variations Menu highlights on the classic include Yunnan yak hipster hood. vape-happy friends facing an imported juice drought; one intrepid reporter sip- which you can choose to assemble yourself Open Mon-Fri 2-9pm, Sat-Sun all day; Shop A3-106, North District, OCT-Loft, Nanshan District 南山区华侨 by‘crossing dropping bridge’ slices noodles of ham, (RMB39 chives and and other up), – public statistics disagree! 城创意园北区A3-106, 央宗米线 (8623 3299) ping Pearl River fluid to ‘prove it’s clean’

60 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM [email protected]

COCKTAIL Death in the Afternoon Ingredients It's said Ernest Hemingway invented this drink, and 1.5oz absinthe - 4.5oz champagne 1935Despite instructions the dark bear moniker, his attribution, the drink along begins with with in a structions to imbibe three to five of them ‘slowly.’ - Directions tones. first,So bubbly sharpen sip, a followed pencil and by break herbal out absinthe the champagne under (as some brands will 1. Add the absinthe first musings or a vow to never again hit a BAC so high so early,flute, becauseit’s sure whetherto be a story. this cocktail brings about poetic 2.float Top on with Champagne) Champagne. to a Champagne flute or a coupe.

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 61 EAT & DRINK | NEW RESTAURANT

CIAO CARO Spaghetti Western By Bailey Hu

nied by gravy, sauerkraut The Place and two potato-based sides, Newly installed in Xiasha’s KK One mall, liberally sprinkled with more Ciao Caro is betting on a broad array of in- pork bits. ternational dishes and craft beer to draw in For the health-conscious, the customers. Its ample space includes both a stage decent stuff, with a slightly nutty honey- for musicians and a large patio, which will mustardParma vegetable dressing salad over (RMB38)greens and is a few surely see more use once fall comes. slices each of meat and avocado. On the inside, small and dimly lit tables suggest intimate gatherings rather than it’s satisfying enough with plenty of mush- rowdy drinking sessions. roomsA pasta and cream dish (RMB38) sauce. A isn’tchewy, al dente,crispy but The Vibe slice of garlic bread side leaves a more vivid Ciao Caro may not have the most authentic impression, as well as a savory, if unsexy, Western cuisine we’ve ever tasted, but the The Food aftertaste. dishes are nevertheless solidly crafted. Plus, Ciao Caro has pizza and burgers, but its Out of 25 taps that heavily favor beers service is responsive and on-tap offerings on standout signature is a German-style roasted from the US (Boulevard, Founders) and point. ham hock (RMB198): crunchy skin covers an Belgium (Liefmans, Hoegaarden), we go with ample layer of fat, while the meat remains and bar during dinner hours on a weeknight. tender, if a little dry. Luckily, it’s accompa- It goes down easy with barely a hint of hops. We spotCustomers quite a quickly few families fill up theamong restaurant the mix, Obama’s favored Goose Island 312 (RMB50). but also younger folks out for a nice meal. Helped along by reasonable prices, Ciao Caro seems to be succeeding in its bid for popular appeal.

Price: RMB40-80 Who’s going: families, non-dieters Good for: budget-friendly Western food, craft beer Nearest metro: Xiasha (Exit B), 8 minutes

Open daily, 11am-2am; Shop 131, KK One Mall South Area, Futian District 福田区京基滨河时代KK One商场南区 131号商铺 (8283 3520)

62 | SZ SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM NEW CAFE | EAT & DRINK

The Food - FOR watch and snorts at the rattling Vortec Pro he hasA pensive wheeled looking outside ‘roasting during expert’ our visit grips – part a stop of what we’re told is the expert operation of the TIMES 2 cafe, and fair enough, the rich dark roast latte

Bigger and Better however, there isn’t much setting For Times 2 By Sky Thomas Gidge apart(RMB30) from hits other all thewell-run right notes.coffee Menu-wise,shops. Cakes served change daily, sometimes the handiwork of the cafe owner and always The Place priced at RMB29, a reasonable ask for the In an area still waking from a post-con- slice of green tea log cake we try, though it’s struction stupor, cafe For Times 2’s wide, clearly geared to locals by landing south of the windowed front looks out on a square where sweet side. of slam poetry, it’s not that kind of cafe. grandparents and kids make use of afternoon But the RMB29, almost saccharine, kum- - light. quat lemon drink will make up for any lack of trons nap in the sunlight to the tinkling of The spacious cafe sees low tables that seat sugar in the pastries. pianoInstead, music you’ll piped find athrough coffee shopthe speakers. where pa four and are spaced far enough apart to lend a bit of privacy, heightened by the piddle of a Price: RMB60 mock waterfall running along a front window. Who’s going: A baking area allows for classes, with The Vibe long-legged coffee drinkerss printed photos of grinning, cake-fondling Asked, the proprietress says she wants her cafe Good for: spaciousselfie relaxing,hungry makeup cake discussions experts, students decorating a hallway wall and hung to feel like home, seeing as she grew up with Nearest metro: Dengliang (Exit E), 40 minutes above bags of unroasted coffee beans. busy business parents and childhood loneli- (bus to Shekou Walmart recommended) In a city with cafes that have either been ness – this may seem like an odd thing to say, squeezed miniature by soaring rent, or but it's the narrative Chinese audiences prefer, Open weekdays 9.30am-9pm, weekends 10am-10pm; packed solid with hard seats to maximize and speaks to the cafe’s target customers. 102, Bldg 5, Huayang Nian Meinian Guangchang, Long to short: don’t expect a bohemian Nanhai Dadao, Nanshan District 南山区蛇口南海大道花样年美年广场五栋102, 午后For Times 2咖啡 (8827 5866) how’s the menu? nexus of alternative attitudes and outbreaks profits, For Times 2 is undeniably comfy, but EAT & DRINK | NEW RESTAURANT

CANTON 8 Two-Star Steal By Lachlan Cairns

The Place The Food The classy Cantonese restaurant checklist: muted Before even setting to work on your grey walls, private booths, attractive hostesses - and glittering chandeliers. As far as looks go, es, which sit a smidge above local roast nothing sets Canton 8 apart. What is special about andfirst ricedish, joints. you will Water notice and the tea low comes pric this newly opened InTown plaza eatery isn’t even promptly and several times during the in Shenzhen – its Shanghai sister restaurant was meal, which, on our visit, included the recently awarded two Michelin stars, becoming best roast pork belly we’ve ever eaten the cheapest two-starred restaurant in the world. as part of the BBQ platter (RMB88). But the storied streets of Shanghai are a world Imagine crispy, yet not salty, skin upon away from Shenzhen’s recently paved boulevards, a buttery layer of fat underneath. raising an obvious question: is our incarnation a Asking how they could possibly The Vibe coattail-riding cash grab, or the rightful heir to its serve such good cuts with each meal, vaunted namesake? we’re told the top tier meats make WeChat moments anytime soon, but it’s famil- it to diner’s plates – the rest to staff iarPictures and comfortable, of the interior including won’t be the flooding iconic high-your stomachs. backed chairs that invite a solid lean during longer dinners, while the food rivals some of the best Cantonese in town and comes paired crispy‘Texture’ fried prawns is the keyword inside. Despite for the RMB38 shrimp wrap in a rice roll, with with expertly trained staff and to-the-point presentation. Canton 8 isn’t a Shanghai dop- and sour pork particularly inspiring, pelganger, it’s the real deal – including prices thoughthe hype, the we usual didn’t pairing find the of pineapplesweet that make you think you’ve gotten away with has been switched out for lychee. A only paying half the bill. Pepsi challenge with other restaurants might end in a draw at the RMB68 Price: RMB150-200 price point. Who’s going: locals and savvy foodies For a kick – keep your recently Good for: service the (RMB99) fried garlic shrimp. A Nearest metro: affordable Gangxia fine (Exitdining, C), attentive 11 minutes spicy,refilled salty water crunchy nearby crustacean – we recommend pile that would invite stuffed mouths and Open daily, 11am-3pm and 5pm-10pm; L203 InTown, crusted lips if it weren’t for our loose Bldg. 2, Fuhua San Lu, Futian District 福华三路卓越 handle on tableside decorum. InTown号楼二层L203, 喜粤8号 (6685 9967)

64 | SZ SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM NEW BAR | EAT & DRINK MON SAIGON Sweet View By Bailey Hu

work is especially eye-catching espite neon signs point- against a backdrop of lit-up ing it out to passersby, skyline. Mon Saigon’s rooftop bar D All the outdoor scenery has an exclusive vibe. Or maybe comes with a downside, at least that’s just because it’s deserted in the summer: due to sultry tem- on the night we visit, for weather peratures, drinkers won’t want to reasons. linger too long over iced drinks. Still, it’s easy to see the ap- Of the bar’s original cocktails, peal. The open-air space is thick- we sample a toffee tequila sour ly populated with potted plants, - clustered around tables and dles the line between sweet and giving an air of privacy. While tart(RMB80) drinks first; without it handily skimping strad on the brick terrace on one side liquor. Next, a blueberry mint has an uninspiring view of traf- julep (RMB80) goes down pleas- antly minty, if not very fruity. shows off the best of Xiangmihu but the Soul Singer at a Corner Drinkers with the munchies The disappointing gin-based fic and a coffee shop, the other (RMB80) delivers a strong sour can order BBQ to be delivered Acid Melon (RMB80) reminds abandoned roller coaster ride. candy taste that falls somewhere to their table. For a full meal, At(‘Honey night, Lake’), its ghostly complete white with frame - between Jolly Rancher and though, they’ll need to head us of flavored cough syrup, Warhead. Even better, it’s still downstairs to the restaurant, which offers AC, if not quite the the ice has melted. same ambience. flavorfulDue to 10 the minutes recent later, popularity after of whiskey in Shenzhen, a bar- Price: RMB80-160 tender informs us, Mon Saigon Who’s going: adventurous stocks a wide range of single drinkers, whiskey lovers malts. He’s not kidding – a brief Good for: creative cocktails, hot scan of the menu reveals dozens dates of scotches subdivided by region Nearest metro: Xiangmeibei (seven altogether). (Exit B2), 5 minutes There’s also a smaller selection of imported beers like Duvel Open daily (weather permitting), 7.30pm-1am; Block B, 1979 Cultural or Firestone Walker, priced at and Creative Park, by Qiaoxiang Lu, RMB40 and RMB45 a bottle re- Futian District 福田区侨香路1979文化生 spectively. 活新领域B区 (8270 3282)

KING’S BAR Bao’an Rising By Sky Thomas Gidge

ao’an: a vast stretch of burger may not be the artisanal leaguered net connection once low-rent housing, hum- masterpieces recently intro- had the taps on the fritz. Bming factories and not duced to Shenzhen, at RMB75, On our visit, Shenzhen bar much else. Or is it? with a side, it is excellent. staples were on tap, like Zeffer A recent visit saw the area Drinks are affordable, with rising as fast as the skyscrapers simple mixed drinks like rum being erected near the Bao’an and coke and whiskey ginger RMB29.7)Cider (500ml and for Brewdog’s RMB56.3), Punk Center metro station. And going for RMB20. On top of Easy Jack IPA (330ml for though it hasn’t yet been seized that, every day of the week has there are plans to bring in locally by the buzz of central Shenzhen, a different special (think taco madeIPA (330ml craft beer. for RMB33), and businesses are setting up shop, Tuesday: RMB15 tacos and Service is excellent and including American-style King’s RMB100 for three margaritas). the food and drink on par with Bar. We’re told the eight-tap Shenzhen’s other American-style Tucked between two train- pour-it-yourself beer system establishments, but location, ing centers, King’s Bar keeps location, location. Despite be- it simple with darts, a smallish a touch screen, you select how ing on the Luobao Line (same pool table and a long, wood bar muchis the firstbeer in you Shenzhen. want (500ml Using of as Window of the World and bathed in an orange glow from a Asahi for RMB28 for example), Coco Park), it’s far enough out of neon sign baring the business’s before paying and pouring the Shenzhen’s center that red taxis moniker. draft yourself. It’s novel –and it are few. Though the blue-cheese works, though rumor holds a be- For anyone craving a burger, a beer and a glance at a changing Bao’an, King’s Bar is an excellent destination, as long as you’re ready for the journey.

Price: RMB100 for food and drink Who’s going: Bao’an residents, nearby expats Good for: solid food, affordable drinks Nearest metro: Bao’an Center Station (Exit A), 5 minutes

Open daily, 11am-2pm, 5pm-2am; 12 Tianyu Haoting, Bao’an Center, Bao’an District 宝安区宝安中心天御豪庭 12号商铺 (134 1026 7441)

66 | SZ SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

Chris Brown Concert The Space Travelers Gig

HEAR

Tom Staar DJ

Christopher Maurice Brown is an With music regularly featured on BBC American singer, songwriter, actor Radio One, Tom Staar is an industry and dancer. First releasing music pillar, leading the way for the newest in 2004, Brown’s unique, lyrical wave of big room house music produc- voice earned him accolades and ers. His ability to make sounds fill every fans despite a very prominent act Against a continuous vocal and instrumental background representing the vast frequency has been dubbed ‘the next of domestic violence. With each star-studded canopy of space, songs suddenly burst forth like planets awaiting thing’ with remixes being sought out new album, a string of top hits fol- discovery with the light-filled voice of Claudia Solal, the strange sounds of per- by Armin Van Buuren. low – now you can see Brown live cussionist Philippe Foch and the lunar cello of Didier Petit. Fri Sept 1, 9pm; RMB100 pre-sale, in Shenzhen. Wed Sept 20, 8.30pm; RMB80 presale, RMB100 at door. B10 Live, North side of RMB150 door, free before 10pm. Sat Sept 23, 7.30pm; RMB380-1,680. Building C2, North Area, OCT-Loft, Xiangshan Dong Jie, Nanshan District 南山区香 Pepper Club, 2/F, Shopping Park, 138 Universiade Sports Center, 3001 山东街华侨城创意文化园北区C2栋北侧 (8633 7602) Mintian Lu, Futian District 福田区民田 Longxiang Dadao, Longgang District 路138号购物公园2楼 (winnie.wu@river- 龙岗区龙翔大道3001号 (taobao.com, win! flowgroup.com, 8387 9899) 8998 0111) We have tickets to this show to give away. Message our official WeChat account (ThatsShenzhen) before September 15 with the band name, your contact number and why you should win. Childhood Land Hip Hop Show

De De Mouse Gig

This September, De De Mouse will be touring China playing tunes from a new album that includes everything from reggae riffs played on pianos, to glitch hop- style samples played out over expansive soundscapes. Reminisce about your younger years with a show by Hong Konger Al Rocco, Sat Sept 23, 8.30pm; RMB120 presale, RMB150 at door. B10 Live, north side of who cut his teeth in Brooklyn and has since brought his singular rapping ability Building C2, North Area, OCT-Loft, Xiangshan Dong Jie, Nanshan District 南山区香 to Shanghai and the rest of the mainland. Rapper Blow Fever will also take to 山东街华侨城创意文化园北区C2栋北侧 (taobao.com, 8633 7602) the stage, with marketing machine DJ Luce laying down beats. Fri Sept 15; free entry before 10pm, RMB100. Club Dazzle, 3/F, Central Commercial win! Building, 88 Fuhua Yi Lu, Futian District 福田区福华一路88号中心商务大厦3楼 (2348 We have tickets to this show to give away. Message our official WeChat 1542) account (ThatsShenzhen) before September 18 with the band name, your contact number and why you should win.

68 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM The Wynners Concert Leon Random Run Concert

Chinese-born Hong Kong actor and Cantopop singer, Li Ming is one of the ‘Four Heavenly Kings’ of Hong Kong. Born in Beijing, he is of Hakka ancestry. At the age of 15, he attended Lewisham College in the United Kingdom and returned to Hong Kong at the age of 18 in 1984, where he established himself as a Cantopop legend. Sat Sept 9, 8pm; RMB680-1,680. Shenzhen Bay Sports Center, 3001 Binhai Dadao, Nanshan District 南山区滨海大道3001号 (youyan- chu.com, 8630 8888)

Nova Berlin Saxophone Quartet Concert

This quartet of saxy phonists plays interpretations of classical music – which up to the 16th century was composed without assigned instrument, making the saxophone a fresh and creative tool of interpretation. Listen to music articulated like never before. Formed in 1973, The Wynners were originally an English-language Hong Kong Fri Sept 8, 8pm; RMB80-380. singing group. Group members went their separate ways, with some going Shenzhen Concert Hall, 2016 on to lay the early foundations for Cantopop. Never officially disbanded, The Fuzhong Yi Lu, Futian District 福 Wynners regularly hold reunion concerts. 田区福中一路2016号 (szyyt.com, Sat Sept 16, 7.30pm; RMB280-1,680. Shenzhen Bay Sports Center, 3001 Binhai 8306 0346) Dadao, Nanshan District 南山区滨海大道3001号 (damai.cn, 8630 8888)

Brooks DJ Cantus Choir

Originally started as a student singing group, Cantus has evolved into one of A young member of the 2-Dutch roster, Brooks was handpicked for his hypno- America’s best vocal ensembles while developing a tradition of fostering up- tizing breaks and steep drops. His innovative style of electro and progressive coming talent to create innovative shows that strive for audience engagement. house was demonstrated on his remix of ‘Scared to be Lonely’ by Garrix. Featured on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert, Cantus will bring their unique vocal styl- Fri Sept 22; free before 10pm, RMB60 presale, RMB100 at door. Pepper Club, 2/F, ings to Shenzhen. Shopping Park, 138 Mintian Lu, Futian District 福田区民田路138号购物公园2楼 Tue Sept 12, 8pm; RMB80-380. Shenzhen Concert Hall, 2016 Fuzhong Yi Lu, Futian ([email protected], 8387 9899) District 福田区福中一路2016号 (en.damai.cn, 8306 0346)

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 69 Paris Reinvents Itself Exhibition WWE Live Wrestling SEE

Russian State Ballet Show

This wrestling extravaganza is coming to Shenzhen for the first time ever on September 17. The event This stately ballet troupe will grace marks WWE’s return to China follow- Shenzhen with their technically ing last year’s show at the Mercedes- impressive rendition of Swan Lake. Benz Arena in Shanghai. Fans will be Russian Ballet is defined by clean able to see their favorite WWE stars and simple movements that manage In a watery future, sea levels have risen, forcing Paris to adapt to the world including AJ Styles and Charlotte to avoid robotic motions, and Swan of 2100. This fictional project looks at how Paris might respond in the future Flair. Lake is the seminal Russian ballet with Et Alors studio displaying 20 city maps showing how Paris would need to Sun Sept 17, 7.30pm; RMB180-2,080. performance. change. Shenzhen Bay Sports Center, 3001 Binhai Wed-Thu Sept 13-14, 8pm; RMB180-880. Sept 15-Oct 15; free. OCT Wetland West Gate, Hongshu Lu, Nanshan District 南山区华侨 Dadao, Nanshan District 南山区滨海大道福 Children’s Palace, 2002 Fuzhong Yi Lu 城红树林西门红树路南山区 3001号 (www.damai.cn, 8630 8888) 中一路2002号 (damai.cn, 8351 3099)

F$B Concert Show

TASTE

Ladies Night Special

Located in the heart of Shekou and providing a low-key ambiance, La Maison is Putting the cash in food and beverage is this Hilton-hosted event, which aims bringing a ladies night deal like no other! Ladies get one special cocktail, along to turn upside down Shenzhen’s growing F and B culture. Expect style, untradi- with other discounts. On top of that there will be a lucky draw including offers tional cooking and live performances. of 10 percent off the bill, all the way up to all expenses paid. Sat Sept 23, 7pm-10pm; RMB288 presale, RMB388 at door, RMB1,888 VIP. Mr. Wong, Fri Sept 15, 7pm. La Maison, Shop 108, Nanhai Rose Garden, 91 Wanghai Lu, by Fuwan Hilton Futian, Great China International Finance Center, 1003 Shennan Dadao, Futian Lu, Nanshan District 南山区望海路91号南海玫瑰花园108号 (2685 7030) District 福田区深南大道1003号大中华国际金融中心B栋 (2130 8888)

70 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM Newcomer Welcome Event Party New? Want to know how to thrive here? Come to the Vista-SK Newcomer Event to find out everything you DO need to live a happy and healthy life in Shenzhen. Vista-SK provides Shenzhen with international quality CICC Guangdong Go-Kart medical practitioners and is the premier stop for health- Cup Networking conscious expatriates. Play activities for children available. Sat Sept 9, 10am-noon; free. Vista-SK International Medical Center, 4/F, Bldg 4C, Shenzhen Software Industry Base, Xuefu Lu, Nanshan District 南山区学府路软件产业基地4栋C座裙楼4 层 (3689 9688)

Talent Search Competition

The China-Italy Chamber of Run in partnership with NetEase Commerce is holding the 7th Edition Cloud Music, the Hard Rock Hotel of this event in Shenzhen at the Shenzhen is turning the stage over Xtreme Speedway Circuit. The event to the city’s hidden musical talent. is a unique occasion to network or After an initial video submission hold a team-building activity. Racers through NetEase before September must be at least 18 and must be reg- 10, an online vote will be held and istered by email before September 8. the winners invited to perform at the Sat Sept 23, 10am; RMB700 racer, RMB550 Hard Rock Hotel Shenzhen. For more chamber members, RMB200 spectators. information see the Hard Rock Hotel Xtreme Speedway Go-Karting, Shang Shenzhen’s official web site. Nan Dong Road, Huangpu Cun, Shajing, Fri-Sat Sept 29-30; purchase of food and drink Bao’an District 宝安区沙井街道黄埔上南 required. Hard Rock Hotel Shenzhen, 1/F, 东路深圳极速赛车场 (infoguangdong@ Hard Rock Cafe, No. 9 Mission Hills Road 深圳 cameraitacina.com) 观澜高尔夫大道9号硬石酒店1层硬石餐厅 (hardrockhotels.com/shenzhen)

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 71 HONG KONG & MACAU CALENDAR

HK MO Those up for a test of strength and This drama follows the story of a SEPT 8-10 endurance can take part in the SEPT 9, 16, 23 & theatrical troupe’s ups and downs FRI-SUN Captain America 10K, blast off like OCT 1 during the era of the Republic of a lightning bolt at the Thor 5K or China, from 1912-1949. Based on Vipassana, 7.45pm 8-10th, 3pm swing into action with family at the SAT&SUN the experience of two opera ap- 9-10th; HKD200-260. Hong Kong Spider-Man 3K. prentices, the tale explores the Cultural Centre, Studio Theater (hk- root of friendship and how it may dance.com) be compromised in an increasingly Immerse your senses in the realm SEPT 16 tempestuous society. The riveting of nothingness, elevated by the SAT production combines elements sounds of chakras and improvised of traditional Chinese dance and music. Forget everyday life with Shanxi opera, sharing a historic mindful acceptance. Presented by narrative from a modern perspec- Artistic Director Yang Yuntao, re- tive. nowned scenographer Tsang Man- 2017 Macao International Fireworks tung and award-winning composer Display Contest, 9pm/9.40pm. Law Wing-fai, Vipassana aims to Coastline in front of the Macau Tower liberate your mind and awaken (fireworks.macaotourism.gov.mo) SEPT 20 your spirit. The Macao International Fireworks WED Display is to continue this month. Georgian Wine Festival, 4-6pm; Macao’s skyline will glow this SEPT 9 Road to Ultra Hong Kong, 12pm- free. IFT, Macau (www.everbrite.hk) September with a burst of magnifi- Winemakers in Georgia has pre- SAT 10.30pm; various prices. West cent fireworks during this annual Kowloon Cultural District, Nursery served a large collection of indig- David Kadouch Piano Recital, 8pm; firework display contest. One of Park (hongkong.roadtoultra.com) enous grapes that give the wine HKD150-380. Hong Kong City Hall, the city’s most highly anticipated Expect heavy hitters like Kygo to produced in this Eastern Europe Concert Hall (hksl.org) events, the show draws thousands take to the massive stage at 2017’s country its unique flavor. The Join pianist David Kadouch as he of spectators each year seeking a Road To Ultra, after a stellar 2016 Georgian Wine Festival invites at- teams up with the Hong Kong visual thrill and romantic evening showing. Going into its second tendees to taste 12 quality wines, Sinfonietta under the baton of on the coast. year, this EDM festival is shaping and it’s free. conductor Perry So. Featured are up to be a seminal event of Hong Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No. Kong’s vibrant dance scene. 2, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, SEPT 10 ‘Pastorale.’ SEPT 20-24 SEPT 21 SUN WED-SUN SEPT 15-17 THU FRI-SUN

Songs of Lear, 8pm; MOP100-250. The Super 8: Asia’s Premier Macao Cultural Centre (www.macau- Basketball Tournament in Macau, ticket.com) 3pm/5pm/7.30pm/9.30pm; MOP180- An adaptation of Shakespeare’s 880. Studio City Macau (www. Choreographers’ Showcase 2017, well-known play, Songs of Lear, is studiocity-macau.com) 8pm 11-16th, 3pm 17th; HKD200- directed by Polish artist Grzegorz Featuring Asia’s top eight basket- 300. Hong Kong Cultural Center, Bral and produced by Poland’s Song ball teams who are champions in Studio Theater (hkballet.com) of the Goat Theatre. This sonic ver- their domestic league, The Super Choreographers’ Showcase 2017 Ariana Grande Dangerous sion of King Lear boasts Georgian 8 will be held in Macau from presents original, bold new ballet Woman Tour, 8pm; HKD888-4,888. chants and Biblical psalms. September 20-24. The five-day con- works by emerging dancers from AsiaWorld-Expo Arena (www.livena- Accompanied by the strings of an test will see professional basketball within and beyond Hong Kong tionlushington.net) occasional steely violin, the exoti- players competing for their team Ballet. This year’s vibrant collabora- Multi-platinum-selling Grammy cism of the Indian harmonium and to be the best in Asia. tion among the dancers celebrates Award-nominated artist Ariana the African lute, performers sing raw athleticism and dynamic move- Grande is making her Hong Kong and move over selected plot points. ment to create a truly unique even- debut. Fan’s won’t want to miss ing of dance. this performance. SEPT 29-OCT 30 SEPT 15-16 The 31st Macao International SEPT 16-17 SEPT 22-23 FRI-SAT Music Festival, 8pm; MOP120-1,500. SAT-SUN FRI-SAT Various locations (www.icm.gov.mo) For 30 years, the Macao Marvel 10K Weekend 2017, various Beertopia 2017, 6-11pm 22nd, International Music Festival has times; various prices. Hong Kong 12pm-11pm 23rd; various prices. hosted exhilarating performances Disney Land. (www.hongkongdisney- Harborfront Event Space (www.beer- featuring a range of international land.com/events/marvel-weekend) topiahk.com) artists for music lovers to enjoy. Runners, assemble! It’s time to Beertopia is an international craft This year’s edition, themed ‘Rising put away your everyday running beer festival in Hong Kong. This Stars,’ will feature celebrated en- clothes and grab something year, the festival will feature over sembles and orchestras, as well as extra special for the Marvel 10K 500 different beers from around local and internationally famous Weekend 2017! Participants of all the world, including offerings from Opera Warriors, 8pm; MOP100-200. productions. ages can unleash the superhero 13 local breweries and craft beer Macao Cultural Centre (www.macau- within as they race at the magi- cocktails, as well as food, live mu- ticket.com) cal theme park and resort area. sic and games!

72 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

HOTEL NEWS SHERATON DAMEISHA RESORT General Manager Matthew Zhou

When did you first become interested in the job? I started my hotel career by accident. When I was young, my friend applied for a position at a hotel and I passed in an application also. The person interviewing me was from Singapore and impressed me by being kind and keeping excellent records. After that, I was determined to become a professional hotelier like him!

What are some of the biggest challenges when managing a major hotel? Talent development is very important for associates. The Sheraton Dameisha Resort has incomparable facilities that attract repeat guests. However, memorable moments in hotels are between the guests and our associates. That’s why we pay attention to talent engagement and retention, a very critical part of the hotel.

What's one thing many people don't know about the role of a hotel GM? Many think it’s an elegant job, just wearing a business suit, leather shoes and necktie. In fact, the GM coordinates all of the hotel’s different departments on a daily basis. The GM needs to know about finance, sales and marketing, human resources, food and beverage, rooms, even engineering and security. Nowadays, the GM also oversees all associates and needs to care about each one. That is why I say: “my door is always open.”

SHENZHEN MARRIOTT HOTEL GOLDEN BAY General Manager Robert Young

What kind of personality makes for a good hotel GM? They need to be a good leader that adapts quickly and brings out the best in the team. As a GM, it is common that they will be transferred to another country, so the ability to quickly adapt to local culture and customs, while getting along with local col- leagues, is crucial.

How did you arrive at this job? I’ve been in the industry for 22 years, ever since graduation. I have never thought about leaving it. I first started the job as a PR assistant in one of the most prominent hotels in Guangzhou. I owe it to my language skills as an English major. When the opportunity was there, I seized it.

What has been your biggest challenge getting to this point in your career? I took on the GM position in my current hotel just four months before its scheduled opening date. Usually for a pre- opening hotel, the GM will be onboard eight to 10 months prior to opening. Most people told me it was ‘mission impossible’ and I should push to postpone the opening date. However, I believe life is like playing poker: no matter what card you are given, you have to take it. The hotel proved to be a great success, and we even received a congratulation email from our Area VP.

74 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM

FEATURED LIS TINGS

Scan for complete listings Want to see all restaurants, hotels and more in Shenzhen? Check out www.thatsmags.com or download our app by scanning the QR code.

cn.marcopolohotels.com 福田中心区福华一路 A8 Building, 15/F, A8 Building, No.1002 Keyuan Road Tech Zone, Nanshan District; EDUCATION Mission Hills Resort No.1 Mission Hills 3) Futian NEO, 44/F, NEO Tower A, No.6011 Dadao, Bao’an District.(2802 0888) Shennan Avenue Futian District; 4) SCC, FOOD & DRINK American International School, No. 观澜湖酒店集团宝安区观澜湖高尔夫大道 1 号 7/F, Tower A, SCC Financial Centre, Junction 82,Gongyuan Lu, Shekou,Nanshan District of Houhai Avenue & First Haide Avenue Nan- (8619 4750) Shangri-La Hotel East of the Luohu Train shan District; 5) New World Centre, 23/F, 南山区蛇口公园路82号青少年活动中心 Station, Jianshe Lu, Luohu District (8233 New World Centre, No.6009 Yitian Road 0888). www.shangri-la.com Futian District; 6) Times Financial Centre, Green Oasis School 罗湖区建设路火车站东侧 14/F Times Financial Centre, No. 4001 No 4030, Shennan Middle Road, Tianmian, Shennan Avenue Futian District; 7) New Futian District. (8399 6712) admission@ Sheraton Dameisha Resort 9 Yankui Lu, Times Plaza, 3/F, New Times Plaza,No.1 greenoasis.org.cn www.greenoasis.org.cn Dameisha, Yantian District (8888 6688) Taizi Road Shekou District; 8) Panglin Plaza, 福田区田面村深南中路 4030 号盐田大梅沙盐葵路 ( 大梅沙段 )9 号 35/F, Panglin Plaza, No.2002 Jiabin Road Luohu District; 1)深圳安联中心, 深圳市福田区 International School of Nanshan Shenzhen St. Regis Shenzhen No.5016 Shennan 金田路4018号安联大厦26层; 2) 深圳A8大厦,深圳 A Canadian school accepting application for Dong Lu, Luohu District.(8308 8888) 市南山区科技园科园路1002号A8大厦15层; 3)深 Pre-Grade 1 through Grade 12. 166 Nan- 深圳瑞吉酒店罗湖区深南东路 5016 号圳NEO大厦, 深圳市福田区深南大道6011号NEO guang Lu, Nanshan District (2666 1000, 企业大道A座44层; 4) 深圳中洲控股金融中心, 深圳 2606 6968). [email protected] www. The Langham, Shenzhen, No. 7888, Shen- 市南山区后海大道与海德一道交汇处中洲控股金融 isnsz.com nan Dadao, Futian District (8828 9888). 中心A座7层; 5) 深圳新世界中心, 深圳市福田区益深圳朗廷酒店，福田区深南大道 7888 号南山区南光路166号田路6009号新世界中心23层; 6) 深圳时代金融中心, 深圳市福田区深南大道4001号时代金融中心14 Peninsula Montessori Kindergarten the The Ritz-Carlton, Shenzhen 116 Fuhua San Peninsula one, Jin Shiji Lu, Shekou Nan- 层; 7) 深圳时代广场, 深圳市蛇口区太子路1号新时 Lu, Futian District (2222 2222) 代广场3层; 8) 深圳彭年广场, 深圳市罗湖区嘉宾路 shan District ( 2685 1266) 福田区福华三路 116 号 2002号彭年广场半岛城邦国际幼儿园南山区蛇口东角头金世纪路1 pho nam 1) Shop B26C, Link City Passage

号半岛城邦一期 The Venice Raytour Hotel Shenzhen China-Italy Chamber of Commerce (near Coco Park), Futian District； 2) B1 No.9026, Shennan Dadao, Overseas Chi- floor, B1-04, Zhuoyue Plaza, Shangmeilin, Quality Schools International Rm220, 2/F, International Chamber Of nese Town, Nanshan District (2693 6888) Commerce, Fuhua San Lu, Futian District Futian District 2/F Bitao Center, 8 Taizi Lu, 深圳威尼斯睿途酒店南山区华侨城深南大道 9026 号越小品 , 1）福田区连城新天地 B26C 商铺 (8255 Shekou,Nanshan District (2667 6031). (Tel: 8632 9518; Fax: 8632 9528). www. 7048)；2）福田区上梅林卓悦汇 B1 楼 B1-04 cameraitacina.com ` www.shk.qsi.org The Westin Shenzhen 9028-2 Shennan 福田区福华三路国际商会中心 2 楼 220 室南山区蛇口太子路 8 号碧涛中心 2 楼 Dadao, Nanshan District (2698 8888) www.westin.com/shenzhen 南山区深南大道 European Union Chamber of Commerce QSI International School of Shenzhen 9028号-2 (Futian) A1, TCL Science Park, No. 1001 Rm 308, 3/F Overseas Chinese Scholars Zhongshan Yuan, Nanshan District (8371 Venture Building, southern section of High- 7108) Tech Industrial Park, Nanshan District (Tel: 中山园路1001号TCL 科学园区A1栋 8635 0920; fax: 8632 9785). 南山高新科技园南区留学生创业大厦 3 楼 308 室 Shekou International School HEALTH Jingshan Villas, Gongye Er Lu, Shekou, Nan- French Chamber of Commerce in South shan District (2669 3669). www.sis.org.cn HarMoniCare Women & Children's Hospital 南山区蛇口工业二路鲸山别墅内 China (CCIFC) Room 318, 3/F Chinese 12018 Shennan Dadao, by Nanshan Dadao Overseas Scholars Venture Building,South (3339 1333) 深圳和美妇儿科医院南山区深南大 section of Hi-tech Industry Park, Nanshan Shen Wai International School 29 Baishi 道12018号 San Lu, Nanshan (8654 1200, www.swis.cn) District (Tel: 8632 9602; fax: 8632 9736) 深圳外国语学校国际部南山区白石三道 29 号 www.ccifc.org 南山区科技园南区留学生创业大 Vista-SK International Medical Center Lvl 厦3楼318室 4, Bldg 4C, Shenzhen Software Industry Base,Xuefu Lu, Nanshan District (3689 German Chamber of Commerce 9833) 南山区学府路软件产业基地4栋C座裙楼4层 217 Chinese Overseas Scholars Venture HOTEL Building, Hi-Tech Industrial Park, Nanshan Futian Shangri-La Hotel Shenzhen No.4088 C-MER (Shenzhen) Dennis Lam Eye District. (8635 0487) www.china.ahk.de Hospital 1-2/F, Shengtang Bldg, 1 Tairan Jiu 南山区高新科技园南区留学生创业大厦 217 The George & Dragon The quintessential Yitian Lu, Futian District (8828 4088). British pub; good draft beers, ales, stout, 福田区益田路 4088 号福田香格里拉大酒店 Lu, Chegongmiao, Futian District (4001 666 120, 3322 7188) 福田区车公庙泰然九路一号 The American Chamber of Commerce in cider, hearty pub food with BBQ's, screening 盛唐大厦1-2层 South China Rm 208, 2/F Overseas Chinese non-stop sports, secluded beer garden. Your Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen 138 Fuhua home away from home. www.george-dragon. San Lu, Futian District (8826 8888) Scholars Venture Building, southern section 深圳市福田区福华三路 138 号 of High-Tech Industrial Park, Nanshan Dis- com. Email: [email protected] IMC(International Medical Center) trict (Tel: 0755-2658 8342; fax: 0755-2658 3 Taizi Lu, by Minghua Lu, Nanshan District (Tel: 2669 8564). Grand Hyatt Shenzhen No.1881 Baoan Nan serves the local community and expatriates 8341). www.amcham-southchina.org 南山区太子路3号太子宾馆1 Lu, Luohu District (8266 1234) www.shen- from all over the world. We are proud to 楼后排3号商铺 zhen.grand.hyatt.com 罗湖区宝安南路1881号 provide private, personalized healthcare for The British Chamber of Commerce, Shen- each patient. Our experienced staff from zhen Sub-Chamber Rm 314, 3/F Overseas Hilton Shenzhen Shekou Nanhai 1177, Hong Kong, Mainland China and overseas Chinese Scholars Venture Building, southern Wanghai Lu, Nanshan District provide comprehensive medical services section of High-Tech Industrial Park, Nan- 深圳蛇口希尔顿南海酒店南山区望海路 1177 号 including general and specialty outpatient shan District (Tel: 2658 8350). 深圳市南山区 (2162 8888) services, health assessments, inpatient 高新科技园南区留学生创业大厦3楼314室 services and more. Scan QR Code above Hilton Shenzhen Futian Town B, Great China for more info of IMC. 深圳市福田区海园一路， International Finance Centre, 1003 Shennan 香港大学深圳医院国际医疗中心 International Dadao, Futian District (2130 8888) Medical Centre，The University of Hong Kong 福田区深南大道1003号大中华国际金融中心B座 - Shenzhen Hospital, 1, Haiyuan 1st Road, Futian District, Shenzhen （0755-86913388） SERVICED JW Marriott Shenzhen No.6005 Shennan Dadao, Futian District. (2269 8888) 福田区深南大道 6005 号 RESIDENCE JW Marriott Shenzhen Bao’an 8 Baoxing Lu, BUSINESS La Maison is a genuine french restaurant in Baoan District (2323 8888) Savills Residence Daxin Shenzhen Bay Shekou. It has a casual but elegant family 深圳前海华侨城 JW 万豪酒店 , 宝安区宝兴路 8 号 Regus Serviced Office 雷格斯服务式办公室 1168 Houhaibin Road, Nanshan District, style ambiance. We serve authentic home • Flexible office leases from 1 day to 1 year Shenzhen (2685 6688) 南山区后海滨路1168 made french cuisine which we'll help you Kempinski Hotel Hai De San Dao, Hou Hai • Quick and easy to set up for 1-200 people 号 www.savillsresidence.com to pair with a selection of wines, beers & Bin Lu, Nanshan District (8888 8888) www. • Prices from RMB180 per month spirits. Come on in and enjoy whether you kempinski.com/cn • Find more on Regus.cn Somerset Grandview Shenzhen No.5 Xin- are a gourmet or total new to french food. 南山区后海滨路海德三道 • Tel: 400 120 1207 sha Road, Futian District, Shenzhen (400 820 Address： Shop 108, Nanhai Rose Garden, 91 1) Futian Anlian, 26/F, Anlian Centre- 1028) 福田区新沙路5号 www.ascottchina.com Wanghai Lu, by Fuwan Lu 南山区望海路91号南海 Marco Polo Shenzhen Fuhua Yi Lu, No.4018 Jintian Road, Futian District; 2) 玫瑰花园108号（ 2685 7030） CBD, Futian District (8298 9888). www.

76 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM FEATURED LIS TINGS CLASSIFIEDS

JOBS OFFERED

Mobile Game company business development position. A NASDAQ listed Shenzhen based mobile game company iDreamSky is looking for an expat for one business development position, native English speaker and fluent in Mandarin a must, well versed with mobile games or business negotiation experience a plus. Responsible for looking for Western games suitable for the Chinese market and contacting the game developers. Our office is located in NanShan district, Shenzhen. If interested, please send resume to Evan at email: [email protected]

MOVING & SHIPPING

AGS Four Winds is leading international moving company offers a full range relocation, moving, and storage services. Our global network of over 300 offices worldwide plus 40 years experience in the moving industry, we know your concerns and have the ability to serve you anywhere in the world. We are FAIM & ISO 9001-2008 accredited, members of the FAIM and FIDI. Contact us for FREE survey and quotation: Tel: +8620 8363 3735/ +86 139 2277 1676 Email: [email protected] Website: www.agsfourwinds.com

Rayca Moving & Transportation Services With 10 years experience, Rayca provides international, domestic, local moving services & pet relocation service. We can effectively move you anywhere at competitive prices! You move, you save! Service hotline: 400-048-9099 Email: [email protected] Website:www.raycatrans.com

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 77 OPEN DOOR

SAFFRON INDIAN RESTAURANT GEORGE AND DRAGON AND BAR Holds Thursday Chicken and Pork Rib Special Introduces Roghan Josh Braised Lamb

A juicy, roasted chicken leg comes paired with half a rack of succulent BBQ pork ribs, served with chips, corn and salad. Every Thursday from 5pm- 10pm, you can get it for only RMB128 per person at George and Dragon. Shop 3, behind Taizi Hotel, 5 Taizi Lu, Nanshan District 南山区太子路5号太子宾馆1楼后排3号商铺 (2669 8564)

HARMONICARE Introduces TCM Massage Treatment

HarMoniCare has introduced a special massage treatment using traditional Chinese medical techniques to relieve shoulder pain, stiffness in the neck This mutton delight is cooked with gravy based on browned onions, garlic, and back along with pain in the knees and ankles. The traditional massage ginger and classic aromatic spices like cloves, cardamom and cinnamon. takes 30-60 minutes and is performed by a professional, who can also offer Prepared in true Indian style for only RMB60 per portion. cupping treatment. B1, Jinhu Hotel, 1008 Hubei Lu, Luohu District 湖贝路1008号锦湖宾馆地下一层 (8219 1115) 12018 Shennan Dadao, by Nanshan Dadao, Nanshan District 南山区深南大道12018号 (3391 9139)

78 | SZ | SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM URBAN MOMENTS

Do you have party pictures to contribute? Send them to us at [email protected] and we’ll run the best.

Sailing The Night Party@Viva Coco Park, Beijing Battle King Huizi@Dazzle Club, Jul 21st Aug 18th

Dave Aude@PEPPER Club, Jul 22nd

WWW.THATSMAGS.COM | SEPTEMBER 2017 | SZ | 79 SEPTEMBER That’s ShenzhenHoroscopes Finally, a horoscope that understands your life in Shenzhen. BY NOELLE MATEER

Virgo Libra Scorpio Sagittarius 8.24~9.23 9.24~10.23 10.24~11.22 11.23~12.21

Have you ever had an incredible bowl of When ordering dinner on E Le Me, do Success is the best kind of revenge. You will find a hidden treasure in your dan dan mian – one that leaves a satisfying, not select any dish with an odd letter Unless, of course, your high school liangpi this month. This treasure is very borderline-sensual tingle on the tongue? of numbers in the name. Also, no frenemy is visiting China. In this auspicious, but not at all edible. We’re And it’s the best bowl of noodles you’ve burgers. (They’re better fresh anyway.) case, you can give him or her terrible just saying be careful. Also, test the ever had, and you want to tell all your Do not order pizza on the 17th. advice, like that Lao Jie is lovely on a brakes before riding any Ofo bikes. friends about it? And then, three hours Saturday afternoon. later, you’re struck with violent, ravaging diarrhea? That’s a metaphor for how your September’s gonna go.

Capricorn Aquarius Pisces Aries 12.22~1.20 1.21~2.19 2.20~3.20 3.21~4.20

The stars have the answer to your Oktoberfest is just around the corner, You’re visiting home soon. How You’re trying to decide where to go question, which is undoubtedly: and you will have a riotous evening wonderful! Just do not visit a craft for Golden Week, and if you wait any Where is the best lamb leg restaurant at one of Shenzhen's illustrious brewery on a Sunday – if you do, your longer to book your tickets, they’ll in town? Baidu it. Bavarian brauhauses. There, you will passport will go missing. Be wary of be gone. Good fortune awaits you in meet a beautiful stranger, sparking tall men in blue hats. Bali. Trouble awaits in Thailand. Do a passionate romance. FYI, he’s not fly Aeroflot. not German – he’s just wearing leiderhosen.

Taurus Gemini Cancer Leo 4.21~5.21 5.22~6.21 6.22~7.22 7.23~8.23

Befriend someone who owns a Drink expensive cocktails in Coco Forget everything you think you Buy a margarita on the 12th, and sanlunche, or a rickshaw with a little Park this month and you will be know – your worldview is about to be you’ll experience good luck for the cart attached on the back. This will rewarded with a higher ‘grade’ on your flipped upside down. You will have a rest of the week. It can't be the be useful when you move house, and work visa. Don’t ask how, exactly. It’s life-changing epiphany on the most slushy kind, though. King's Bar has also useful when your friends drink the stars that say this, not us. Wear humid day of September. It’s still not the most auspicious margarita. too much on your pub crawl. Do not black on the 13th. OK to forget your deodorant though. drink and drive rickshaws.

80 | SZ SEPTEMBER 2017 | WWW.THATSMAGS.COM