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LAUNCH ISSUE LAUNCH digest FREE Best Free-Flow Brunch Buffets Guide The Best Places to Run in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Street How To: Ride a 12 Best Nail Salons Art Revealed Lift Like a Boss in Hong Kong The Best Turkish Spotlight: Top Five Take your Pick: Restaurant in HK Funky Chairs Car Park Space or Mansion? 18 Fun Things Hot Yoga Teacher to Do with Kids Holly Wong

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Content

What’s New at Localiiz 2 pg6 Behing the Secret Walls 3 of Hong Kong Street Art

This Man’s Flat is the Best 4 Turkish Restaurant in Hong Kong

12 Best Free-Flow Brunch 6 pg4 pg10 Buffets The Island Series: Lamma 10 Guide

18 Fun Things To Do with 14 Kids in Hong Kong

pg3 The Best Places to Run in 18 Hong Kong pg14 5 Minutes With: Hot Yoga 20 Teacher, Holly Wong

12 Best Nail Salons in Hong 22 Kong

Spotlight: Top 5 Funky 24 Chairs pg20 Localiiz Property Picks 26

pg18 How To: Ride a Lift 28 pg22 Like a Boss pg28

The Localiiz Team Localiiz Digest, Issue 01 Localiiz.com (HK) Limited November-December 2016 Suite 1501, Connaught Commercial Building Editorial Copyright 2016 Localiiz.com (HK) Limited. 185 Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Managing Editor: Sophie Pettit All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole Enquiries: (+852) 2559 5626 Editorial Assistant: Scarlett Whittell or in part without written permission is www. localiiz.com [email protected] prohibited. To share content, please visit our website —www.localiiz.com — and find Sales & Promotion the original article whereupon visitors are For sales and promotional enquiries welcome to share a link back to the original please contact Katie McGregor on Localiiz article, with appropriate credit to (+852) 2559 5626 Localiiz.com, on their own platform or social or email [email protected]. media channel. Thank you for sharing!

© 2016 Localiiz.com (HK) Limited localiiz.com 1 Welcome Win a Localiiz umbrella! Out & About Welcome to the first edition of the Tag #Localiiz and Show us your City! Localiiz Digest, where we aim to de- liver the very best of our website into your hands. We love nothing more than taking a glimpse into life in our fabulous city through Since its launch in 2012, the Localiiz the eyes of our readers. Each week, we website has become a go-to site for insight and information about our enjoy watching hundreds of shots fill up vibrant city. Our dynamic editorial our Instagram feed as you share your team publish new articles every day, and our small business directory adventures with us here at Localiiz HQ. provides an additional valuable re- Picking our favourite Snap of the Week is never an easy task with so many action-packed, source where you can find everything creative, and striking photos to choose from ... all in a bid to win your very own Localiiz you need in the 852. It’s no surprise umbrella. But we have hundreds to give away, so don’t be caught short in those pesky Hong that thousands of Hong Kongers visit Kong showers, and tag your best pics with #localiiz to be in with a chance of winning one and our website every day, and that we getting featured! have a following of 68k+ Facebook fans, plus a growing following on both Need some inspiration? Just take a look at these jaw-dropping shots of Hong Kong from Instagram and Twitter. some our previous Snap of the Week winners. Happy snapping Hong Kong! But while we fully appreciate the convenience of accessing information online, we also know that there’s @eloadefly nothing quite like kicking back with a leisurely read — and so the Localiiz @kimberleyfun Digest came into being! If you like what you read in this di- gest of our most popular articles, then why not visit our website where you will find a world of additional inform- ation about Hong Kong. @not_a_starving_artist To make sure you’re always the first to get our latest stories and updates on all of the best events coming up, join us on social media, or subscribe to our weekly digest. Enjoy!

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2 Out & About

Behind the Secret Walls of Hong Kong Street Art

Words by Sophie Pettit

We all know the iconic line from Fight Club, over. While bare-knuckle punches are re- the movie that gave us adrenaline-pumped placed with bags of artistic talent and tones men pounding the life out of each other in of wit, as we quickly learnt when chatting some dark underground warehouse — and to regular contestant Szabotage, things can Brad Pitt’s abs. Well, now imagine that ag- still get pretty personal. gression with acrylic paint and a giant can- “One year I flashed my pants to the vas, and you’ve pretty much got the Secret crowd,” the award-winning interior designer Walls live art battles … just substitute some and architect told us. “The guy I was up boxer flashing for that washboard. against was called Alex Wong, so when I The series of live street art battles has pulled my trousers down my boxers said ‘SO guy in appearance so on my wall I drew him taken Hong Kong by storm since landing WONG’. It’s supposed to be a battle so I like packaged up as a boyband doll, complete on our doorstep in 2013, bringing some of to throw in a bit of gentle piss-taking. I might with his own art equipment and ladder. He the hottest names on the block together in not be able to outdraw my opponent, but I looked over at my picture and knew I had 60-minute head-to-head combats across a can certainly outwit them.” him. It’s all done in good humour of course, blank eight-by-eight-foot wall. Hailing from the contemporary art hotbed but it does pay to do your homework.” This not-so-secret event has a lot in of Shoreditch in London, Szabotage moved While the talented trickster is taking a common with that brutal movie. What to Hong Kong almost two years ago to de- break from this year’s Secret Walls series started as a small, intimate shindig back in pict his vision of this unique city through art, to focus on his own solo projects, we cer- 2006 in a tiny bar in East London has now fusing East and West. He tells us that his- tainly can’t wait to see if he makes a cheeky spread across the globe, shining a spotlight torically in the UK and Europe, street artists comeback in next year’s battles. After all, on artists in major cities including New York, use more of an attack approach, which may what’s a party without a little flashing? London, Lisbon, Berlin, Tokyo, Copenhagen, explain his witty tactics during the Secret Dublin, Amsterdam, and of course, Hong Walls battles. Follow the amazing work of Szabo on Kong. Battles are set up and promoted “I like to research my opponent before Instagram (@szabotage_me) and Facebook (@ through word of mouth and social media, the battle so I can build a story around them szabotage.me). and come with their own set of rules (only in my work. It helps me to win over the black and white markers and paint can be audience by showing them my humour and used, no sketches used as a reference) and, keeping them entertained. One year I was like in the movie, a buzzing crowd to win up against an artist who was quite a small

localiiz.com 3 This Man’s Flat is

Out & About Turkish Restaurant in Hong Kong Words by Sophie Pettit Dubbed as ‘Airbnb for foodies’, PlateCulture is the latest app taking Hong Kong’s foodie world by storm, giving us access to some of the best home-cooked meals around the city. We pull up a chair at the table of Turkish masterchef Papa Theo, who’s winning hearts (and stomachs) across the 852.

masterchef Papa Theo, I’m totally sold on the idea. And it seems I’m not the only one.

A Growing Appetite Since launching in Hong Kong a year ago, PlateCulture has garnered over 5,000 subscribers, and close to 50 hosts, and now features cuisines from 15 different countries. In the case of Papa Theo, the man who will “only serve you food that is good enough for (his) two sons to eat”, the menu is overflowing (quite literally) with traditional homemade recipes from Turkey, which he learned from his mother and teachers. “Cooking is the biggest passion and hobby of my life,” Papa tells us, as we nibble our way through twelve dishes in his spa- cious family apartment adorned with colour- ful paintings, beautiful French windows, and Asian, Western, fusion – you name it, Hong of the globe – be it French, Italian, Mexican, a very neatly organised children’s craft table. Kong has it. When it comes to dining out, Japanese, Greek, Turkish – the list goes on. A stay-at-home chef by day, a stay-at- our city has an insatiable appetite for the home papa by night, this man was born to latest, tastiest, and trendiest cuisine on the How it works cook and play host, and today we are treated block – so much so that choosing a place to Simply browse the profile of hosts on the to his family favourites, including Babagan- eat with friends can become an overwhelm- app, read about their background, dishes, oushy Eggplant Salad, Classic Shepperd’s ing challenge. With so many restaurants vy- and how much they charge each diner for Salad with Pomegranate Sauce and Fried ing for our attention (and wallets), it’s hardly their meal, and sign you and your friends up Halloumi Cheese, and the most incredible surprising to discover that one group of pas- on your preferred date. Once you make the Classic Hummus I have ever tasted. sionate foodies is venturing off the beaten payment via PayPal, you will receive a book- By the time his 12 Hour Marinated Roas- track to bring dining back to basics – home- ing confirmation on your phone. Each host ted Fresh Chicken and famous Signature cooked and straight from the oven. And it’s is assessed, sampled, and approved by the Meatballs with Homemade Tomato Sauce all thanks to a little app called PlateCulture. PlateCulture team before they are allowed and Goat Cheese arrive at the table, I barely The concept is pretty simple, it connects to join the app, meaning only top-notch have room left in my belly – but I push people who love cooking with people who cuisines make it to your plate. through, because this meal just gets better love eating authentic home-cooked meals. Now, rocking up to a stranger’s flat with and better. Guests have a unique opportunity to dine in a bunch of hungry friends and expecting Bursting with flavour and beautifully the home of a host who gets to showcase a slap-up meal might sound like a bizarre presented on colourful plates which display their culinary skills without leaving the concept, but after spending one afternoon the vibrant colours of his homeland, it’s comfort of their own kitchen. The culturally munching my way through the Roasted hardly surprising to learn that Papa Theo is diverse nature of Hong Kong means that Chicken and Meatballs Combo menu in now one of the most sought-after chefs on diners can feast on cuisines from all corners the gorgeous North Point home of Turkish the PlateCulture app. Despite never having

4 worked in a professional kitchen, he learned Out & About the tricks of the trade while studying Tour- ism and Hotel Management and working in the service industry more than twenty years. Managing restaurants and F&B outlets in Turkey, Thailand, Dubai, Australia, and China clearly taught him a lot, so inviting the city to dine at his table was an easy decision. “I pride myself in making everything by myself and from scratch,” he explains, “even the beef stock and tomato sauce that goes on top of your meatballs is personally made by me. Whatever I cook for you, you can doesn’t stop at the food. As we round off our Still Hungry? rest assured that it will taste authentic and feast with a serving of mysterious Kunefe, Keen to give it a go? If you’re looking for a have you coming back for more!” He isn’t Shredded Sweet Pastry with Cheese, and a totally unique dining experience, check out wrong there – we couldn’t get enough of cup of Turkish Coffee with Turkish Delight, PlateCulture and browse close to 50 chef the yoghurt sauce coated baby capsicums, two excitable little cherubs come bursting profiles. Papa Theo’s Roasted Chicken and the devilishly moreish hummus, and the through the door into this warm and intim- Meatballs Combo serves from 4 to 8 guests, delicious Turkish bread which he prepared ate domestic setting. School has finished for and costs $430 per person. You can also find from scratch that very morning. the day, and it’s back to daddy duties for out how to become a host. If there’s one thing to take away from the Papa Theo – and boy are those kids in for PlateCulture experience, it’s the knowledge one delicious meal! that every bite you savour is made with love – and with Papa Theo, the affection

localiiz.com 5 WHISK at the Mira Saturday Sessions

12 Best Free-Flow Brunch Buffets

Words by Sophie Pettit

Let’s face it, who doesn’t love to spend a lazy afternoon Issaya Siamese Club feasting on their body weight in food and sipping on What could be better than a weekend brunch with ‘infinite’ champagne, delicious free-flow bubbly with their nearest and dearest? Weekend Thai dishes, and handmade candy floss? As brunch buffets will never go out of style in Hong Kong, so we well as feasting on fresh oysters and a huge decided to check out the very best on offer (in order of price), selection of fresh appetizers including Laab Kai, Moo Ping, and Salmon Soklek, diners so you can sit back, relax, and indulge to your stomach’s at Issaya are invited to hand pick their own content – whatever your budget. Bon appétit! ingredients at the papaya seafood salad bar and watch chefs prepare it in front of them. They can then choose a main course from a selection of six delicious dishes, and round How much: $450 per person Zuma Saturday Sessions it off with a trip to the nitrogen ice cream Thanks to this trendy, modern Japanese iza- Good for: Cocktail lovers / al fresco dining and candy floss station - an absolute must. kaya, we no longer have to wait until Sunday to tuck into delicious food platters and sip Watermark Where: Issaya Siamese Club, 25/F, Soundwill on beautiful signature cocktails. The newly For brunch with a view, look no further than Plaza II, Midtown 1 Tang Lung Street, launched Saturday Sessions at Zuma invites this waterfront spot. Perched on top of Pier , (+852) 2154 3048 you to feast on a set brunch menu of tasty 7, Watermark boasts a stunning 270-degree nibbles, such as edamame and satsumaimo view of beautiful Victoria Harbour. With chips, followed by beef and chicken skewers, fresh seafood, a carvery station, huge salad seared salmon, grilled corn, and salmon ter- bar, and a corner devoted entirely to eggs, iyaki, ending with a delicious fruit platter and you’re guaranteed to have a slap-up feast chocolate brownie petits fours. whatever your taste preference. The impressive range of alcohol on offer And did we mention the heavenly dessert perhaps makes this one of the best options corner, complete with chocolate fountain for those looking to drink more than they and crêpe station? As if that wasn’t enough, eat, as guests can choose from a menu of this brunch also includes free-flow red, six crafted cocktails, seven classic cocktails, white, and sparking wines, plus beer. as well as beer, champagne, and spirits with mixers. If the weather is nice, check out the Where: Shop L, Level P, Central Pier 7, Star outdoor terrace too. Ferry, Central, (+852) 2167 7251 When: Sundays, (11am – 3pm) Where: 5/F & 6/F, The Landmark, 15 How much: $398 (free-flow an additional $120) Queen’s Road Central, (+852) 3657 6388 The nitrogen ice cream and candy floss Good for: Seafood lovers / ocean view When: Saturdays, (1pm – 3.30pm) station at Issaya Siamese Club

6 When: Saturdays, (12pm – 3pm) and Sundays, How much: $480 per person (includes free- Where: 34/F, Hong Kong, 281 Out & About (11am – 3pm) flow juices and soft drinks) / $680 (includes Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay, (+852) 2837 How much: $368 per person (free-flow cham- free-flow alcohol) 6786 pagne an additional $238; free-flow Thai iced Max booking: 12 people tea and soft drinks an additional $88) Good for: Intimate brunch / dim sum lovers When: Sundays, (11.30am – 3pm) Good for: Food with fun / Thai food lovers How much: $698 per person (includes free- Clipper Lounge flow) / $568 (non free-flow) Panevino Variety is the key at Clipper Lounge’s Sunday Good for: Dining with a view Enjoy free-flow Prosecco and a feast of Italian brunch, which invites you to dine on a se- homemade delights at one of Hong Kong’s lection of fancy hors d’oeuvres, seafood, Kitchen Restaurant oldest family-run restaurants, Panevino. At noodles, sushi and sashimi, farmhouse at W Hotel only $198 per person, the all-you-can-eat cheeses, carvery, vegetables, and pastries, If you’re looking for the ultimate indulgent buffet offers incredible value for money with while overlooking the busy hotel lobby. package, then the Bubbly Seafood Brunch a vast array of simple yet delicious Italian With an omelette egg station and cooking at the W Hotel is your spot. Spend a lazy antipasti bites such freshly-baked breads, station serving up Vietnamese noodles, your Sunday afternoon sipping on free-flow herb-infused olives, salami, Parma ham, only problem might be deciding what to eat Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut champagne and smoked salmon, grilled vegetables, risotto, first – or fitting it all in. With 30 desserts to feasting on an open-concept buffet of fresh and sun-dried tomatoes. choose from, just make sure you save some seafood (including fresh oysters and prime room at the end - and don’t fill up completely quality Boston lobsters), cold cuts, sushi, Where: 30-32 Robinson Road, G/F Peace on the free-flow R de Ruinart Champagne sashimi, sliders, roast beef, and melt-in- Tower, Mid-Levels, Central, (+852) 2521 7366 included in the price! your-mouth desserts as you overlook the When: Weekends, (12pm – 3pm) tranquil harbour. How much: $198 per person (includes free- Where: M/F, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, 5 flow Prosecco and soft drinks) Connaught Road, Central, (+852) 2825 4007 Where: 6/F, W Hotel, 1 Austin Road West, Good for: Intimate gatherings / Italian food When: Sundays, (11.30am – 3pm) Tsim Sha Tsui, (+852) 3717 2299 lovers / value for money How much: $688 per person (includes When: Sundays, (12pm – 3pm) free-flow) How much: $828 (free-flow and non free-flow Duddell’s Good for: The indecisive / insatiable guests) If you know what you like and it happens to Good for: The super indulgent be dim sum, then Duddell’s is your foodie ToTT’s haven. This arty hangout invites you to Views don’t come much better than this. indulge in all-you-can-eat dim sum, snacks, Perched on the 34th floor of The Excelsior soup, mains, noodles, and desserts from hotel, ToTT’s has one of the highest views the order sheet, and sip on all-you-can- of the harbour in Hong Kong, making it drink Veuve Clicquot champagne, red, and a prime spot for relaxed weekend din- white wines, plus a choice of three delicious ing. The brunch buffet here soars too, cocktails. Known for its stylish interiors and with all-you-can-eat seafood, sushi, and relaxing atmosphere, Duddell’s is the perfect sashimi, in addition to the carvery, curry, setting for a more intimate weekend brunch. pasta, salad, foie gras, and dessert stations. Guests can also choose from a selection of Where: 3/F, Shanghai Tang Mansion, 1 six hot dishes, which include both fish and Duddell Street, Central, (+852) 2525 9191 meat, and enjoy free-flow Veuve Clicquot When: Weekends, (12pm – 3pm) champagne, red, or white wine.

Visit Localiiz.com for more stories Bars Under the Stars 12 Best Live Jazz Bars Take wining and dining Shake things up the next to new heights with a time you hit the town with roundup of the best our roundup of the best rooftop bars Hong Kong jazz joints in the city. has to offer. www.bit.ly/ www.bit.ly/ localiiz-jazz localiiz-stars locallocaliiz.comiiz.com 7 chicken, and homemade sausages. WHISK at the Mira Pick your way through an open buffet of Don’t forget dessert! An additional free- fresh seafood, including fresh Boston lobster flow package can be added on top, where and unlimited freshly shucked Fanny Bay you can enjoy beer, sparkling, red, or white Out & About oysters, and tuck into a BBQ station with wine. crispy roasted suckling pig in this sophist- icated setting. WHISK boasts an impressive Where: 11/F, Grand Hong Kong, 1 The Verandah at The Peninsula range of international cheeses, charcuterie, Harbour Rd, Wan Chai, (+852) 2584 7722 island and homemade breads, as well as a dessert When: Weekends, (11.30am – 3pm) room filled to the brim with pastries and ice How much: $538 per person (free-flow an cream – perfectly washed down with free- additional $218) flow Moët & Chandon NV champagne and Good for: BBQ lovers / al fresco dining The Verandah at cocktails. Delicious! The Peninsula Harbourside at If you can’t decide what time to feast, then Where: 5/F, The Mira, 118 Nathan Road, Tsim InterContinental The Verandah offers a breakfast, lunch, and Sha Tsui, , (+852) 2368 1111 Harbourside offers a full buffet with all dinner buffet every day of the week and on When: Sundays, (12pm – 3pm) the classics including a tempting array of weekends. Featuring all the brunch classics, How much: $888 (includes free-flow) / $638 Western and Asian dishes, a roast carving such as sushi, sashimi, a roast beef and (non free-flow) station with prime cuts of beef, decadent lamb carvery, salad, and seafood, this classy Good for: Quality seafood / cheese lovers homemade desserts, and a vast selection of brunch also offers a selection of Chinese hot lobsters, scallops, prawns, and crabs. Pan- dishes including dim sum, and is renowned The Grill at the Grand Hyatt fried foie gras is a specialty dish here, and for its delicious Eggs Benedict (which are If you live for BBQ food, then you’ll be in free-flow Champagne, red, white wine, and only available in the breakfast buffet). paradise at The Grill’s weekend buffet. When beer is included. If you have room at the end, you will no the sun is shining, kick back and relax by the doubt enjoy conquering the dessert station outdoor pool and enjoy chargrilled sand lob- Where: LG/F, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 which features pastries created by Dutch ster, king prawns, crabs, mussels, and grilled Salisbury Road, TST, (+852) 2313 2323 chef and World Chocolate Master Champion salmon. This premium al fresco dining spot When: Sundays, (11.30am – 3pm) 2011, Frank Haasnoot. The free-flow pack- also boasts a selection of refreshing salads How much: $898 (includes free-flow) age with soft drinks, fresh juices, beer, and and meat, including beef steak, pork chops, Good for: The stunning view of Hong Kong rosé wine is available at an additional cost of $168 per person.

Where: 1/F, , 19-21 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, (+852) 2696 6772 When: Breakfast, (7am – 10.30am); Lunch, (12pm – 2.30pm); Dinner (6pm – 10pm) How much: Breakfast ($360); Lunch ($788); Dinner ($788); free-flow an additional $168 Good for: The indecisive / egg lovers

The Grill at the Grand Hyatt

Visit Localiiz.com for more stories Best Corkage Free Bars and Restaurants Top 10 Dog-Friendly Hangouts Grab a bottle and check We check out the best out these corkage free dog friendly bars and restaurants and bars restaurants so you don’t around the city. have to leave your canine pal at home. bit.ly/localiiz-corkage bit.ly/localiiz-dog-friendly 8 Out & About

localiiz.com 9 The Island Series: Lamma Guide Out & About

Words by Scarlett Whittell

If you’re looking for a weekend escape from the beeping cabs, heaving crowds, and built-up streets, then grab a pal and explore one of Hong Kong’s beautiful outlying islands. In part one of our Island Series, we give you the low-down on Lamma. A picturesque, undulating island off the south west coast of Hong Kong, this popular retreat boasts sandy beaches, hiking trails, fresh seafood, and rather surprisingly, no llamas.

How To Get There to change. raft. Forget fancy gadgets - a hookless fish- When you head down to Central Pier 4, ing rod is all you need to keep little hands there are two popular options. Either hop Where: Herboland, , happy throughout the afternoon. Plus, while on the ferry to , which runs Lamma, (+852) 9094 6296 the youngsters fish around in the water, you every 20 to 30 minutes, or ride to Sok Kwu Opening hours: 11am – 5pm on weekends can relax with a cup of freshly brewed tea. Wan on the less regular ferries (roughly and public holidays only every hour and a half). Canine pals are How much: Free Where: Fisherfolk Village, Fish welcome to board all ferries, but asked to Facebook page: @herboland Raft, (+852) 2982 8585 park themselves on the front row to avoid www.fisherfolks.com.hk covering all other passengers with fur. Opening hours: 10am – 7pm How much: Full day tickets cost $80 for adults Ferry Schedule: www.bit.ly/localiiz-lamma- and $60 for kids ferry

Beaches Activities Hung Shing Yeh Herboland A busy and popular beach with showers, If embarking on the Family Trail, make sure BBQ pits, small stalls for BBQ snacks, Fisherfolk Village to swing by the lusciously green oasis that ice-cream, and drinks, as well as the more is Herboland. Described by our very own upmarket Concerto Inn with its beach-front Lamma Localiizer as “a tropical jungle within terrace serving Western and Asian food, or a the tropical jungle”, this charming tea shack Fisherfolk Village leisurely bottle of wine. is the place to pick up your organic bathroom A celebration of the continuing importance essentials and rustic gifts. Mint soap and of fishing to Lamma’s economy, Fisherfolk Where: About a 30-minute walk from Yung herbal tea? Yes please. Just make sure you Village combines local history with hands- Shue Wan check out the Facebook page before you set on activities. Hop on a shuttle boat from off, as Herboland only opens on weekends Sok Kwu Wan Public Pier, and in just over a Power Station Beach and public holidays, and even this is subject minute you’ll be on the Sok Kwu Wan fishing If your ideal beach date has a furry body and

10 four legs (oh come on, we’ve all eschewed Family Walk, swing by Yung Shue Ha Beach Yung Shue Wan and hike over the island to Out & About the Hong Kong dating scene at some point), en route. This rather desolate beach has just Sok Kwu Wan, however, in our experience then trot on down to Power Station Beach. a few shops selling noodles on the week- you are much better doing the whole thing As a non-government managed beach, can- ends, and the occasional scattering of tents in reverse. By getting your timings right and ine pals can frolic to their hearts’ content. courtesy of ad-hoc campers. catching the less regular outbound ferry to There’s usually a volleyball flying around on Sok Kwu Wan, you will finish your day in the weekends, and if you keep your eyes Where: About a 40-minutes walk from Sok Lamma’s most bustling neighbourhood with peeled, you might even catch the Lamma Kwu Wan the biggest variety of restaurants (because Outrigger Canoe Club paddling by. Listen post-hike feeds are both deserved and ne- out for news of the annual Lamma Fun Day cessary). If you get peckish mid-hike, there too, when stalls, activities, and live music Hikes are a couple of food stalls en route selling pop up on the beach in aid of charity every pineapple and beancurd, among other November. Also known as Tai Wan To Beach. things.

Where: About a 20-minute walk from Yung Distance: 4km Shue Wan. Turn right at the Tofu Fa stall. Starting Point: Sok Kwu Wan Ferry Pier Finishing Point: Lo So Shing If you’re dreaming of a quiet stretch of Lamma Island Hike golden sand, bordered by luscious, green If an experienced, knowledgeable tour forest, then is the spot for guide would make a welcome addition to you. Clean sand and clear water, this oasis is Yung Shue Ha Beach your island experience, then sign up to the ideal for a relaxing weekend escape. Lamma Island Hike with established tour Circular Lamma Island Family guide company Walk Hong Kong. Catching Where: About a 20-minute walk from Sok Kwu Walk a scenic boat from Aberdeen to the small Wan If a pleasant, family-friendly tour of Lamma village of Wan, this full-day excursion is what your feet desire, then grab your encompasses most, if not all, of Lamma’s his- Mo Tat Wan trainers and hop on the ferry to Sok Kwu torical sites. From the feng shui woods to the Popular with junk boat parties and round Wan. Once you’re hiking, the half-way point unspoilt south, you’ll experience the secret island paddlers, Mo Tat Wan Beach is yet treat is a sandy stop off at Yung Shue Ha areas most people fail to find. Checking in at another picturesque spot to add to Lamma’s Beach, which is uninhabited, bar a couple of $800 per person, you’ll know the island like collection. Bordered by private houses and campers and noodle stalls. As a family walk, the back of your hand at the end. popular Mediterranean restaurant, The Bay, it’s no surprise this trail is relatively buggy- it’s well worth the extra effort to reach this friendly, apart from one set of stairs. Make Distance: 7km out-of-the-way spot. sure you head around the circuit clockwise Starting Point: Mo Tat Wan so that you can carry any accompanying Finishing Point: Yung Shue Wan Where: About a 20-minute walk from Sok Kwu buggies down these stairs, rather than Wan tackling an upward struggle. Then it’s back to Sok Kwu Wan for a celebratory seafood Sham Wan, aka Turtle Beach banquet. However, if you’re still full of beans Festivals One of Hong Kong’s cleanest swimming and fancy tackling another 4km, hop on the spots, Sham Wan Beach on the south coast Family Trail and head to Yung Shue Wan. Tin Hau Festival boasts water so clear, it’s near impossible to Lamma is well known as a hub of traditional resist going for a cheeky dip. Also a favourite Distance: 6km celebrations when the Tin Hau Festival spot of broody green turtles, however, the Starting Point: Sok Kwu Wan comes to town. Colourful decorations, lion beach is off limits from June 1 to October Finishing Point: Sok Kwu Wan dances, and opera appear in hon- 31. our of the sea Goddess, Tin Hau, who has Family Trail three colourful temples dedicated to her on Where: About a 30-minute walk from Sok Kwu By far the most well-worn hike on the island, this one island alone. Keep your eye out for Wan the Family Trail encompasses many of our re- fishing boats adorned with colourful ribbons commended sights and activities, including thanking Tin Hau for past fortune on the Yung Shue Ha Power Station Beach, Herboland, and Kami- high seas, and to welcome luck in the future. If embarking on the Circular Lamma Island kaze Cave. Most people kick off their day in

localiiz.com 11 Andy’s Seafood / Sau Kee

When: Tin Hau Festival, April 29 – May 1 ferry pier. It may not look like much from the and see where the evening takes you – more 2016 street entrance, but walk past the tanks to often than not it’s salsa dancing in the street. The Celebration of the Tin Hau Festival Opera the outdoor terrace overlooking the bay, and Although this rather mysterious tapas joint Performance – April 27 – May 1 you’ll stumble upon the perfect setting for a has no website or Facebook page, it’s an seafood feast. The garlic broccoli is a must absolute gem. Olé! Out & About - Lamma 500 (except on date night) as is the Red Grouper. The Lamma 500 International Dragon Boat Carlos Tapas, Yung Shue Wan Main Street, Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary in Andy’s Seafood, 43 Main Street, Yung Shue Lamma. Opposite Jing Jing Bar, 54 Yung Shue 2015 with an exciting schedule of compet- Wan, Lamma, (+852) 2982 0210 Main Street itive racing over a standard 500m course, as well as its signature 1000m course. Lamma Grill From burgers to hot dogs, and BBQ ribs to When: May buffalo wings, Lamma Grill is the island’s Where: Power Station Beach, Lamma Island / authentic American restaurant, serving up www.lamma500.com/ hearty meals every day of the week. The seasonal specials ensure that there’s always Lamma Fun Day something new and exciting to try, even if An annual fundraiser for the Child Welfare you’re a regular. If you fancy a side portion Scheme, the Lamma Fun Day features a full of bingo, clothes swapping, and book stalls, programme of live music together with a then get down there on Wednesdays when market, food stall, and bar. exciting activities are planned. Bookworm Cafe When: November If a delicious, nutritious vegetarian meal Lamma Grill, 36 Main Street, Yung Shue Wan, Where: Power Station Beach, Lamma Island / is what you’re after, then the colourful, Lamma, (+852) 2982 1447 www.facebook.com/LammaFunDay friendly Bookworm Cafe is the place for you. Our editor loves nothing more than LaLa Mama’s grabbing a book from the shelf and whiling Fresh juice on a summer’s day is one of away the hours with a plate of Green God- life’s greatest pleasures, so it’s no surprise Restaurants: Yung Shue dess Lasagne. With such glowing reviews, that LaLa Mama’s has made it on to our Wan it’s no surprise that this place is bustling on must-visit list of Lamma restaurants. Swing weekends and holidays. During these busy by and try out The Refresher, our ultimate In Yung Shue Wan, you really are spoilt for periods, we recommend picking up the favourite juice, with its orange, apple, and choice. From vegetarian cafés to Indian phone and reserving your spot. lemon flavours. In addition to great juice curry-galore, and mouth-watering Spanish (can you tell we like it?), LaLa Mama’s hosts tapas to good old American grill comfort Bookworm Cafe, 79 Main Street, Yung Shue cooking classes. There’s no set schedule, so food, you won’t be going hungry in this Wan, Lamma, (+852) 2982 4838 give them a call, sign up, and they’ll let you neighbourhood. know what date to pop in your diary. Carlos Tapas Andy’s Seafood/ Sau Kee A personal favourite of Localiiz’s very own LaLa Mama’s, G/F, 27 Sa Po Old Village, Yung Seafood Restaurant Lamma resident, Carlos Tapas boasts an Shue Wan, Lamma, (+852) 9759 2553 For a more local experience, scout out Andy’s intimate atmosphere, a friendly host, and Seafood, a less visible and less expensive delicious Spanish food. Bring a bottle of The Waterfront alternative to the restaurants directly off the wine (corkage? No sir), two to three friends, Feeling spicy? Rustling up some of the best

Visit Localiiz.com for more stories Top 10 Junk Boat Hire Companies Fifty First Dates in Hong Kong Make a splash this summer Shake things up to with our roundup of the make that dazzling first best junk boat companies in impression with some Hong Kong. of these weird and www.bit.ly/ wonderful things to do. localiiz-junkboatcompanies www.bit.ly/ localiiz-firstdates 12 curries in Hong Kong, The Waterfront serves on the last Thursday of every month, and live deliciously low prices. From deep fried squid Out & About an eclectic mix of Asian and Western dishes music fills the cosy venue on Friday evenings to steamed scallops, and baked lobster to with a strong Indian influence. With a cold and Sunday afternoons. Plus, on $20 Tues- fried crab, this is absolute heaven for large beer in hand, and the sun setting over the days Heineken pints, and house spirits and groups of seafood lovers. If you fancy a South China Sea, The Waterfront’s terrace mixers will set you back just one 20 dollar tipple, you’ve got free rein to pick up your is the ideal place to round off your Lamma note! Of course, it’s always Happy Hour at favourite drink en route to this BYOB estab- adventure. After taking a peek at the kids this Lamma local anyway, with beer, wine, lishment. Cheers! menu, which includes Silly Sausages, Chish and Prosecco checking in at under $40 per and Fips, and Rita Margarita Pizza, we glass all day, every day. Lamma Hilton Shum Kee Seafood Restaurant, reckon youngsters will be big fans of The 26 Second Street, Sok Kwu Wan, Lamma, Waterfront too. The Island Bar, 6 Main Street, Yung Shue Wan, (+852) 2982 8241 Lamma, (+852) 2982 1376

Restaurants: Sok Kwu Wan Sights

Over in Sok Kwu Wan, seafood is king. Kamikaze Cave Wander down the pier and see which res- This rocky cave may not seem so exciting taurant takes your fancy. If winging it isn’t upon first glance, but once you learn the your idea of fun, however, pay a visit to one history behind it, we guarantee you’ll want of our favourites, detailed below. to take a second look. It’s believed that Ja- The Waterfront, G/F, 58 Main Street, Yung panese soldiers occupying the island during Shue Wan, Lamma, (+852) 2982 0015 Lamma Rainbow WWII dug out the cave to hide their boats With a multitude of culinary awards tucked and ammunition from the Allies who were The Blue Goose Tavern under its belt, Lamma Rainbow is sure to sat- occupying . The Kamikaze The Blue Goose Tavern is another restaurant isfy your hunger pangs. Specialities include Cave is well sign posted along the Family with an unassuming shop front and beauti- Rainbow Fish, Fried Squilla, and Sweet and Trail, close to Sok Kwu Wan, so check it out ful terrace. Whether you’re on the hunt for Sour Prawns. Why not take your Lamma if you’re passing by. a Full English Breakfast on the seafront, or Rainbow experience to the next level and a stacked, meaty burger, this ex-Wan Chai hop aboard the Rainbow Boat? This ferry Lamma Winds establishment will fill you up, no problem. service takes satisfied guests back home to Feeling green? No, not with envy – with en- Central Pier 9 or Tsim Sha Tsui Pier 5 free of vironmentally-friendly energy! Well, if you The Blue Goose Tavern, G/F, 47 Main Street, charge. Check the timetable link below. do have a soft spot for wind turbines and Yung Shue Wan, Lamma, (+852) 2982 1688/ want to see Hong Kong’s premier specimen, (+852) 9869 1919 Lamma Rainbow, 23-25 First Street, Sok Kwu thenLamma Winds is an obvious place to Facebook Page: @TheBlueGooseTavern Wan, Lamma, (+852) 2982 8100 schedule in to your day. It will come as no Timetable: www.lammarainbow.com surprise that this tester-turbine is located in The Island Bar one of Hong Kong’s breeziest spots, which Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Lamma Hilton Shum Kee Seafood can provide light relief following the 30 to ferry pier, The Island Bar is a firm Localiiz Restaurant 40-minute uphill, sign posted walk from favourite, with seafront seating making it A well-established Sok Kwu Wan favourite, Yung Shue Wan. both family and dog friendly. Quiz night falls Lamma Hilton serves delicious food at

Visit Localiiz.com for more stories 5 Niche Museums to Visit in Hong Kong Top 6 Hong Kong Staycations Sam the Local’s resident From bubble homes tour guide Danny does the to luxury rooms, and legwork to find us the top glamping to bathtubs 5 niche museums in our with a view, we’ve got bustling city. Hong Kong stayca- www.bit.ly/ tions covered. localiiz-nichemuseums www.bit.ly/ localiiz-staycationslocaliiz.com 13 Family

Fun Things To Do 18 with Kids in Hong Kong

Words by Sophie Pettit school bus. With no entry fee, Snoopy’s You’re on the hunt for exciting things to do with kids in Hong World is a cute family attraction that is def- Kong, but you know Ocean Park like the back of your hand, and initely worth checking out if you have smal- ler kids. It won’t take them long to explore, lord knows how many times you’ve walked around Disneyland – but they’ll definitely cherish their play date so what now? Luckily, our city is bursting with fun attractions, and with Snoopy and friends. many of them free, so we say beat the boredom and head to one Where: 3/F, New Town Plaza, 18 Sha Tin of these family hot spots. Centre Street, Sha Tin, (+852) How much: Free entry

1. Trick Eye Museum Keep an eye out for the famous paintings 3. Bubble Soccer Grab your camera and let your kids’ imagin- too, as Da Vinci, Monet, and Van Gogh all What could be more fun than climbing in- ations run wild at the world-class 3D Trick make guest appearances. If you’re lucky, side a giant, inflatable bubble and wreaking Eye Museum. This quirky attraction, which they may even paint your portrait! havoc in a 4,000 square-foot arena? Head to originated in South Korea, was crowned as Crossfire Arena, bubble up, and let the mad- the Number 1 museum by TripAdvisor in Where: Shop 1, 3/F, The Peak Galleria, 118 ness begin as you and your loved ones bump 2014 – and we can see why. Visitors can Peak Road, The Peak, (+852) 2813 1686 | and crash your way to victory in this quirky immerse themselves in a wacky world of 3D www.trickeye.com/hongkong/ team sport. Sessions last around 1.5 hours art as they climb, swing, and pose their way How much: $150 for adults and $100 for kids and includes eight different games to get to the perfect optical illusion photo. and senior citizens you bouncing off the walls — quite literally! Featuring five different zones, including The bubbles come in three different sizes Secret Garden, Great Adventures, and Never- 2. Snoopy’s World so all the family can find the perfect fit, and land, and more than 70 photo points, you’re Join Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts there’s also the option to dim the lights for a never short of action during a visit here. gang at this figurine-filled mini outdoor neon adventure. With party bookings avail- Where else can you escape the jaws of a killer theme park located in Shatin’s New Town able (where you can bring your own food white shark, learn the art of levitation with Plaza. Snoop through the famous pup’s dog and drink) and a large lounge area to relax the Big Buddha, jump across a pit of molten house, snap photos with all the folks, jump in between games, this is the perfect family larva, go skydiving, shrink your family, or lose on a canoe and cruise along the mini river, or activity! And if you’re feeling brave, why your head all in one afternoon? sing your heart out aboard Charlie Brown’s not combine Bubble Soccer with a game

14 Bounce Inc

of Archery Tag to really get the adrenaline 6. Trampoline Parks your in-App Family pumping. Add a spring in your step and head to one QR code reader to scan the code on the of the city’s much-loved trampoline parks. animal information signs throughout the Where: Crossfire Arena, 13D, Wah Ha Dare to conquer the Ultimate Ninja Course park. Building, 8 Shipyard Lane, Quarry Bay (Tai Koo or become a ‘Circus Extraordinaire’ on the Aside from the animals, you can enjoy MTR Exit A1, 1 minute walk), (+852) 5808 trapeze at Ryze Hong Kong, or unleash your the beautiful and relaxing Nature Garden 9681 | www.crossfire.hk inner child and run wild among the spring- which combines greenery and art, a high How much: Sports Package – $2,988 for 8 to loaded urban playground with 100 inter- rope course challenge in Adventureland, and 20 people (1.5 hours) connected trampolines at Bounce. If your a Treasure House of wisdom where science, Party Package – $6,976 for up to 40 people child is the competitive type, they will love history, and music come to life. If you can’t (3 hours) jumping around in the Big Bag, Slam Dunk, bear to tear yourself away after just one day, and Dodgeball courts, and you can be sure then why not book yourself into the Noah’s 4. Freeing HK they will always have a soft landing! Ark Hotel? There’s also an outdoor tightrope Have you got what it takes to mastermind adventure course available for reservation if your own perfect escape? Find out at Hong Where: Bounce, G/F EMAX, KITEC, No.1 you’re on the hunt for an alternative day out Kong’s first ever real-life room escape game, Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay, (+852) 2556 or a celebration venue. Freeing HK. 9555 | www.bounceinc.com.hk Throw yourself into a mysterious world of Ryze Ultimate Trampoline Park, 3/F, 321 Java Where: 33 Pak Yan Road, Ma Wan, (+852) intrigue, puzzles, and codes as you engineer Road, Quarry Bay, (+852) 2337 8191 | 3411 8888 / www.noahsark.com.hk/ an escape in a tight race against the clock. www.ryzehongkong.com How much: Tickets cost $168 for adults and Can you wake yourself up from the Horror How much: Prices start $150 per person for $138 for kids Dream, escape from the traps of The Lost one-hour sessions at both parks Chamber, or find the missing informer in 9. Ice Skating The Prison Chaos — all in under 45 minutes? 7. Hong Kong Zoological There’s only so much air-con can do. If Book now and find out. and Botanical Gardens you’re struggling to keep cool, then why Take your little monkeys to see the mon- not get your skates on and hit the ice at one Where: 10/F, Richmond Plaza, 496 Jaffe keys. That’s right — orangutans, gibbons, of the city’s rinks? Glide over to Ice Palace Road, Causeway Bay, (+852) 2711 1791 macaques, and lemurs await at the Hong in CityPlaza, The Rink at Elements, Glacier 4/F, Pakpolee Commercial Center, 1A – 1K Sai Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. The at Festival Walk, or Mega Ice at MegaBox, Yeung Choi Street South, Mong Kok, (+852) 5.6 hectare garden is one of the oldest zo- and show off your skills. Prices range from 2711 1785 | www.freeinghk.com/en/ ological and botanical centres in the world, $1 per minute to $55 per session, making How much: Games start from $98 per person and also home to raccoons, flamingos, tor- this an affordable option for the kids and and require 4 or 6 players. toise, and turtles. cheaper than a holiday on the slopes. All creatures here are free to watch, as 5. Magical World long as you come between the opening Where: Ice Palace, 1/F, Cityplaza, 18 Taikoo Want to fly on a magic carpet with Aladdin, hours of 6am to 7pm. The Green House Shing Road, Taikoo Shing, (9.30am – 10.00pm ride the magic pumpkin to meet Prince Education Centre closes at 4.30pm, and is daily), (+852) 2844 8688 / www.cityplaza. Charming, and chase Anna and Elsa down definitely worth a visit. com/entertainment/ice-palace.aspx the snowy slopes? Well now’s your chance as The Rink, G/F, Elements, No. 1 Austin Road Hong Kong’s first Disney-themed 4D photo Where: Albany Road, Central, (+852) 2530 West, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon (open hours studio, Magical World, invites you to get 0154 vary), (+852) 2196 8016 / www.rink.com.hk snap happy among 12 cartoon zones and 70 How much: Free entry Glacier, Shop UG-21, Festival Walk, photography spots in a 10,000 square-foot (10.30am – 9.30pm daily), (+852) 2844 space. Mixing paintings, statues, and props 8. Noah’s Ark 3588 / www.festivalwalk.com.hk/en/fun/ with sound effects, music, lighting effects, If you’ve never spent the afternoon with 67 glacier.php and even smells, the new attraction offers a pairs of life-sized animal statues, then you’ve Mega Ice, MegaBox, 38 Wang Chiu Road, magical experience for the whole family. got a real treat coming your way. Located on (opening hours vary), (+852) 2709 4023 | Ma Wan island, Noah’s Ark is a truly unique www.megaice.com.hk/ Where: 1F, Hilton Place, 96 Granville Road, experience and every Instagram king or Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, (+852) 2721 queen’s dream. Where else could you snap a 10. Lasermads 9318 | www.magicalworld.com.hk selfie with a polar bear and a giant tortoise? Recreate your own sci-fi battle scene at How much: $168 for adults and $120 for kids To get the most out of your visit, you can Hong Kong’s first spaceship-themed laser and senior citizens download Noah’s Ark Animal App and use tag station. With dramatic music blaring out

localiiz.com 15 Lasermads 13. Hong Kong Park Aviary 15. Sideways Driving Club across the space station, epic laser sound Nothing beats a breath of fresh air and sights Your little ones might not be old enough to effects, and two weapons of choice to play of nature. Just minutes away from the bust- drive, but that doesn’t mean they can’t prac- with (the Blaster or Phaser), you’re sure to Family ling Central district, well hidden by tall build- tice. Take the family to Hong Kong’s premier get the adrenaline pumping and the family ings on Hennessy Road and Kennedy Road, virtual racing centre and unleash your inner competition fired up at Lasermads. Hong Kong Park is a beautiful oasis of exotic Hamilton on 15 networked simulators at Let your imagination run wild as you birds, plants, and plenty of space for children Sideways Driving Club. Designed to let you duck, dive, and zap your friends (or enemies) to play and run around. Enjoy a family walk experience what it feels like to be in a real with the most advanced laser equipments over the wooden paths perched high among race car on the circuit, this hidden gem has and systems this planet has to offer. Who the trees and see how many colourful birds more thrills and high-speed action than you will emerge the sci-fi hero in your family and you can spot. Not only a fun area to explore, can shake a gear stick at. Why not become send the score board through the roof? Only but a great spot to take lovely photos with a Formula One champion or, if you’re feeling one way to find out. Book ahead to guaran- your nearest and dearest. The park is free to really competitive, race your family against tee your adventure in space. Team bookings enter and open every day between 9am to the clock? So turn off your Playstation or are available from 8 to 20 players. 5pm, making it an absolute must on our list Xbox and get yourself down there. of fun activities. Where: 11/F Ying Kong Mansion, 2–6 Yee Wo Where: LG/F, 1-2 Chancery Lane, Central, Street, Causeway Bay, (+852) 2343 3033 / Where: 19 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, (+852) (+852) 2523 0983 www.lasermads.com 2521 5041 www.sideways-driving-club.com How much: Each game lasts 30 minutes and How much: Free entry How much: Prices start from $300 per hour, costs $118 per person but make sure you book ahead.

11. Art Jamming 14. 360 Tours 16. Museums Is your little one a budding Picasso? Find out If you’re looking for an educational activity and book them a slot at one of the city’s art to enjoy with your family, then you certainly jam studios. Let them paint and splash away won’t fall short of options in Hong Kong. in the relaxed and comfortable surroundings With 19 Leisure and Cultural Services of quirky little art studio, Paint Palette, in Department (LCSD) museums to explore, Causeway Bay, or sign them up for a five-day your general knowledge will go through art course at Hong Kong Art Tutoring where the roof. Aside from favourites such as the they will learn how to express themselves Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong and create a masterpiece for your home. Heritage Museum, and Hong Kong Science For a full day of fun, head over to Lantau Museum, there are also some excellent Where: Paint Palette, 3/F, 532 Jaffe Road, island and embark on an outdoor adventure niche museums which cater to all sorts of Causeway Bay, (+852) 2575 8830 with one of the several 360 Ngong Ping interests. Martial arts fans will no doubt love www.paintpalettehk.com, $220 per person tours. Kids looking to discover the most de- the Bruce Lee: Kung Fu – Art – Life exhibit, Hong Kong Art Tutoring, 21/F, 435 King’s licious treats might enjoy jumping in a boat which documents the life of the Legendary Road, North Point, (+852) 9722 8353 and riding through the waterways of Dragon in a collection of over 800+ pieces www.hkarttutoring.com, $1,500 per course on the four-hour 360 Fishing Village Insight of artifacts. Or perhaps you fancy traveling Tour. They can also feast on local delicacies back to 1910 to see the Tai Po train station 12. Ceramic Workshop such as doughnuts, big fishballs, and tofu and explore fifty years of vintage trains at Looking to revamp your kitchenware? Why puddings. Or perhaps they will enjoy learn- the Hong Kong Railway Museum. not give it a personal touch and take the ing about spirituality and Buddhism as they For a totally mind-opening experience, kids to a Loveramics Workshop where they join a two-hour 360 Buddhist Walk which head to Dialogue in the Dark, where you will can use their artistic flair to decorate mugs, takes them to see The Big Buddha, Po Lin sharpen your senses as you discover first- bowls, and other ceramic goodies with paint. Monastery, The Grand Hall of Ten Thousand hand what it’s like to live as a blind person Let them splash, splatter, doodle, and dab Buddhas, and the Wisdom Path. with the help of a guide and a walking cane. their designs before they watch the team Visit the website to check out the several Schedule your culture fix for a Wednesday glaze their creations and polish them to per- options. when many of Hong Kong’s museums open fection. Functional, fun, and affordable, this their doors for free. is a great activity for budding little artists. Where: 11 Tat Tung Road, , Lantau, (+852) 3666 0606 Where: Various locations / www.museums. Where: Repulse Bay / www.loveramics.com www.np360.com.hk gov.hk, www.dialogue-experience.com.hk How much: $400 per painter How much: Package prices vary How much: Various

16 17. Themed Cafes and 18. Fisherfolk Village Family Restaurants Forget fancy gadgets — a hookless fishing When it comes to eating out, this city sure rod is all you need to keep little hands busy loves a novelty. From Hello Kitty Chinese at Fisherfolk’s Village. Situated at the beau- Cuisine to the real life Cat Cafe, and the tiful Sok Kwu Wan bay on Lamma Island, this Charlie Brown Cafe to, well, erm … rabbits natural setting combines local history with (that’s right, we can now dine with bunnies hands-on activities for kids and adults. at Rabbitland), we’re definitely not short of Occupying an area of over 20,000 square concept cafes to keep little ones entertained. foot, the Village comprises authentic fishing What kid wouldn’t love to sip on Snoopy- junks, traditional dragon boats, an exhibition themed hot chocolate with the silent pooch, Hello Kitty Chinese Cuisine, Shop A-C, G/F, hall, themed folklore booths, fishing rafts, or tuck into some char siu bao with their Lee Loy Mansion, 332-338 Canton Road, and dwellings. The floating platform makes favourite fictional feline? Fans of the lovable, Jordan, (+852) 8202 8203 for a perfect spot to relax with the family hippopotamus-like Moomin creatures will Cat Store Cafe, 3D Po Ming Building, Foo with a rod in hand. no doubt enjoy taking a trip down memory Ming Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, lane at the Moomin Cafe. And if none of (+852) 2710 9953 Where: Sok Kwu Wan Fish Raft, (+852) 2982 those adorable characters take your fancy, Charlie Brown Cafe, G/F-1/F, Kok Pah 8585 then perhaps some playful animal shaped Mansion, 58-60 Cameron Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, How much: Full day tickets cost $80 for adults Yum Cha dim sum will satisfy your appetite. Kowloon, (+852) 2366 6315 and $60 for kids Rabbitland, 3/F, 530 Jaffe Road, Causeway www.fisherfolks.com.hk Yum Cha, 2/F, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Bay, (+852) 5281 0280 Voeux Road Central, Central, (+852) 3708 Moomin Cafe, Shop 32, Level 3, LCX, Harbour 8081 / 3/F, 20-22 Granville Road, Tsim Sha City, Ocean Terminal, Tsim Sha Tsui, (+852) Visit www.localiiz.com for the extended Tsui, Kowloon, (+852) 2751 1666 2730 0963 version of this article.

localiiz.com 17 Whether for fitness or for fun, there are thousands of people who love to run in the city we call home. However, locating Sport & Fitness new and interesting areas to go without having to do extensive research can prove to be a challenge. Lucky for us, a brand new website, HK Running, has The Best done all the ground work for us. We catch up with the site’s Places to Run creator, David Tanner, to find out the best places to run in in Hong Kong Hong Kong. ‘Quality Street’

When you think of Hong Kong, running may For Beginners Trail Runs not be the first thing that springs to mind – From sweeping reservoirs to tropical trails, well maybe a treadmill in a gym – but the Road Runs these trail runs are sure to reconnect you city and streets are only a small slice of what From the top of The Peak down to the with the great outdoors in Hong Kong. Hong Kong has to offer. The country parks Hong Kong waterfront, and bouncing over we have in our backyard cover a total area to Kowloon, these gentle road runs provide She’s Just Playin’ – 4.5km of 44,300 hectares – more nature than you fantastic views of our city from every angle. This route lies in Aberdeen Country Park. can shake a stick at! On our doorstep we It’s a great place to start trail running and have scenic hills, woodlands, reservoirs, and Pacing Prefontaine – 2.9km see what it’s like. Start from Wan Chai Gap rugged coastline, which are all easily access- A popular short route for road runners with Playground and run the loop around Aber- ible. We really do have it all. nice views of Hong Kong and Kowloon as deen Upper Reservoir and back to the start. With this in mind, we have run and you run along the Hong Kong waterfront. mapped over 650km of the best running Start/finish at Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Short and Sweet – 6.5km routes in Hong Kong, covering road, trail, /outlying ferry piers. Make it a little longer This route is around 70/30 trail to concrete and athletic track locations. You’ll find all the with a start at Tamar Park. – a little more undulating but very enjoyable. classics, as well as the hidden gems you didn’t The trail starts on Nam Fung Road just up know about, and some useful information to Gucci Dog – 3.4km from South Island School and takes you improve your running experience. We have A suburban run with some of the best views through Aberdeen Country Park, following hand picked (and run) all of these routes to of Hong Kong as you run around The Peak Hong Kong Trail Section 4 for a large part of make sure they are worthy, and given them along Lugard Road. Make sure you go on a the run, passing around the top of Aberdeen creative names to bring some adventure and clear day or night. Clockwise or anti-clock- Reservoir, and finishing in Aberdeen. fun back into your run. It may seem like a lot, wise - both are great! but we have only just scratched the surface Training Day – 9.4km of what’s out there. Star Struck – 7.7km This route lies on . More trail To set you on the right track, here are A classic run that will take you along Kowloon and elevation to enjoy, and a little more our favourite routes to run, whether you’re waterfront. Starting from the famous clock technical. Start from and run along a seasoned athlete (a ‘Runner’) or you are tower, the route takes you to Hung Hom and Lantau Trail Section 12, finishing in Nam just getting started (a ‘Beginner’). Visit our back, enjoying fantastic views of the Hong Shan. website (www.hkrunning.com) for maps, Kong city and skyline. tips, and more. Happy running Hong Kong!

18 Visit www.localiiz.com for more stories

For Runners Sport & Fitness

Road Runs Trail Runs Step up the pace and explore the concrete Country parks, twin peaks, and rolling hills jungle, or take in the stunning southside sea await on these scenic trail runs across Hong view, with these road runs for more experi- Kong Island and the . enced runners. The Shadow – 8.25km Top 5 Wildest Hikes Quality Street – 4km The run takes you through Tai Tam Country We take a walk on the wild side and dis- The stomping ground for many HK Runners, Park. Start from Wan Chai Gap Playground, cover Hong Kong’s raw beauty with Rory this nice, flat route offers great views of the and run along Blacks Link, head up Tai Tai Mackay of Wild Hong Kong. city as you run by – 8km out and back on Reservoir Road, and join Tsz Lo Lan Shan, www.bit.ly/localiiz-wildesthikes Bowen Road. Start from the beginning by which takes you through the park to finish walking up to Bowen Road from the bottom in Repulse Bay. of the Peak Tram. All You Need to Know About Crossing the Kong – 14.5km Men’s Fitness in Hong Kong The Top Down Approach – 5km A tough route, as you literally cross Hong We catch up with five fitness gurus to It’s all downhill as you descend 270m along Kong from South to North. Starting at Chung get the low-down on Hong Kong’s male quiet back roads, starting from The Peak Hom Kok beach, over The Twins and Violet fitness scene. running down Barker Road, along Coombe Hill, then toward and finishing in Quarry bay. www.bit.ly/localiiz-mensfitness Road to Wan Chai Gap, and then into the city. Rocket Man – 16.7km An amazing run with lots of elevation and 5 Things I Learnt About Pilates Shark Bait and Room with a View great views. From Kei Ling Ha in Sai Kung, Our fitness-phobe editorial assistant tries Combine these two routes – from Deep follow the Maclehose Trail, finishing in Sha her hand at Pilates. Water Bay to Repulse Bay, and Repulse Bay Tin Pass. www.bit.ly/localiiz-pilates to South Bay – for the ultimate sea view run. Both runs together are 6.7km. The south side of the island is the place to be if you like running and great views. Hong Kong’s Ultimate Healthy Eating Guide Freshen up your diet with our guide to the healthiest bites around the city. www.localiiz-healthyeatingguide

6 Tried and Tested Relaxation Techniques Our editor delves deep into Hong Kong’s vibrant holistic heath and wellness scene to discover how to get you from OMG to ‘Room with a View’ ‘The Shadow’ “om” in a matter of minutes. www.bit.ly/localiiz-relaxationtechniques

A Note About Tracks Tracks are great, but be warned they can be tough if you get bored easily! Mainly used for training, there is a good selection of athletic tracks available for use in each district. Remem- How To: Quit Smoking using ber to check out track maintenance schedules and opening hours on our website if you are Chinese Medicine planning a visit to one of these. Ditch the cigarettes with these tops tips Find out more! Check out HK Running to find all the information you need, such as route from Traditional Chinese Medicine Doctor, maps, safety tips, learning videos, and a dedicated forum for run lovers. Grace Yu. www.bit.ly/localiiz-quitsmoking

localiiz.com 19 Five Minutes With: Hot Yoga Teacher, Holly Wong Working up a sweat doesn’t have to involve pumping iron in the gym – there’s always yoga. We spend five minutes with full-time yoga teacher Holly Wong from The Yoga Room to find out what it’s Is it better for women to remove all about. Brace yourselves, things are heating up. their makeup first? #pandaeyes

Sport & Fitness Yes, definitely! Always go to yoga with a clean face. If you’re a serious yogi, you would know that the first tenet of niyamas What is hot yoga? it’s so hot I want to get out of here”. (positive actions and attitudes towards per- Hot yoga is – as its name suggests – yoga sonal refinement) is saucha (purity or clean- done in a hot room. The temperature var- Who does hot yoga most liness), which begins with physical cleansing ies from studio to studio, but it’s generally benefit? of the body. Some yogis go as far as taking between 30 and 40°C. Hot yoga is actually The practice of yoga is deeply personal – a shower before every practice. If you have a general term that encompasses several some might find that hot yoga is beneficial no clue, or don’t care what saucha means, styles of practice (as opposed to Bikram for the body and mind, while others might wash your face anyway. It’s better not to risk Yoga – more about this later). I teach several not. Some might find that hot yoga helps having makeup clog your pores and run into variations of it, including Hot Flow – aka with their injuries and pains, others might your eyes! Hot Vinyasa (a dynamic, flowing practice), find that it aggravates them. I would sug- Hot Yoga (which is slower-paced and more gest that pregnant women and people with Has anyone ever fallen asleep in static compared to Hot Flow, with the same diabetes or any sort of cardiovascular prob- your hot yoga class? sequence of poses taught every week), and lem, including high blood pressure, avoid Only during the final resting pose, Savasana Warm Stretch (long stretches in a mildly practicing it. If you don’t fall into the above (phew!) Technically, you’re not supposed to heated room). categories, and are interested in trying it out, fall asleep during Savasana, but my students go for it and see for yourself. It has to work work hard and the room is warm, so I forgive What is the concept behind hot for you as you can only reap the benefits of the soft snoring and let them enjoy their yoga? yoga (hot or not) through regular, consistent well-deserved rest! Hot yoga is often associated and considered practice. synonymous with ‘Bikram Yoga’, which was Have you ever had anyone pass founded by Bikram Choudhury. The concept Do you have to be an advanced out in a hot yoga class? behind Bikram Yoga is to replicate the heat yogi to handle the heat? Can’t say I have! *touch wood*, but it’s funny and humidity of India where yoga origin- No you don’t, but I would suggest begin- you ask this as it reminds me of the first ever ated, which is believed to help the body ners start with taking Hatha yoga classes hot yoga class I went to. I was with my mom purify and detox. A traditional Bikram class in a non-heated room so they gain more and sister and it was about 15 years ago consists of a series of 26 postures, including awareness of their body and mind without when we didn’t know a thing about it. We two breathing exercises, and this sequence the additional distraction. When they’re showed up with T-shirts and sweatpants. never changes, whereas generally, hot yoga comfortable with it, then perhaps start with After class, my mom fainted and my sister is a version of the physical Hatha practice milder styles of hot yoga, such as Warm had to vomit! The teacher gave my mom performed in a heated room, and teachers Stretch and Hot Yoga. I wouldn’t recommend water and kindly stayed with her until she are free to teach their own sequences. taking a Hot Flow class unless you’re already recovered. comfortable taking a Vinyasa Flow class in a What are the benefits of hot normal temperature room. What is your advice to anyone yoga over other types? considering hot yoga? Needless to say, you will sweat a lot in a Is hot yoga the most popular kind One of the most important lessons that yoga hot class! The hot environment is meant to of yoga in Hong Kong? has taught me is to listen to my own body encourage “sweating out the toxins”. Other It might be. I don’t have the stats to go so far and instincts. This applies to all forms of than the detox effect, being in a heated as to say that it’s the most popular kind here, yoga, but it’s particularly pertinent in a chal- room is said to allow deeper stretching and but hot classes are definitely popular and lenging environment like a hot room. If you improve blood circulation. Some even say are often full. I find that most Hong Kong don’t feel 100% well, drop the ego, and rest. that hot yoga leads to more stress reduction. yogis fit into polarized camps when it comes Drink water if you need to hydrate yourself Personally, I think that it’s a greater mental to hot yoga – they either love it or hate it properly. In most circumstances, it’s better training as I try to maintain my awareness – however hot yoga lovers say that it helps to stay in the room so the teacher can keep on the sensation of the movements and the them get rid of bloating, improve flexibility, an eye on you, but leave the room if you ab- breathing rather than thinking “oh my god, and quiet the mind. solutely need to. You know your body best.

20 localiiz.com 21 Best Nail Salons in 12 Hong Kong

Words by Sophie Pettit From quick and easy manicures, to fancy nail art from France, Japan, and America, our city is overflowing with nail salons to suit

Style & Beauty every need and budget. Whether you’re after a no-frills affair, or a full-on pamper session, we know just the place for you. So put your feet up and file, buff, and polish your paws to perfection.

1. Nail 88 3. Rainbow Nails 5. Spa BPZ For quick, cheap, and cheerful nails, head This is one place that takes nails very ser- If you’re looking for A-List treatment, then to one of Nail 88’s salons to get your fix. iously! Entering its twelfth year of service, check out award-winning Spa BPZ. Owned When we say ‘budget’, we really mean it, Rainbow Nails offers one-stop OPI manicure by skin-care specialist, cosmetologist, and with a standard manicure costing just $48, and pedicure services which use a set of makeup artist to the stars, Nigar Qureshi, a pedicure $98, and a full set of soft gel nails fancy equipment specially designed for per- this avant-garde gem uses the latest and setting you back just $188. The salons are forming ‘American Manicure’ instead of nail most high-tech equipment from around the small, but they stock a large selection of OPI clippers and cuticle pushers. It also offers globe to create red carpet-worthy nails in colours and offer other treatments such as professional nail training courses for those a cosy environment with character. A pro- eyebrow shaping, threading, and waxing. who wish to polish their manicure skills and fessional manicure will set you back $210, Due to their small size and popularity among practice professional nail services one day. A while a pedicure with foot care costs $320. the ladies, it’s best to call ahead to make an standard manicure costs $190, a pedicure is The spa also offers shellac manicures for appointment, or avoid going at lunchtime. $370, and a full set of soft gel nails will set $590, and nail art ranging from $30 to $50 you back $600. With cutting-edge designs, per nail. A whole rage of luxury massage, Wan Chai – Cathay Lodge, 125 Wan Chai and a range of acrylic, soft gel, this is a waxing, and spa treatments is also available. Road, (+852) 3741 1139 colourful spot to get the coolest new looks Sheung Wan – Shop G24-25, Welland without breaking the bank – or your nails. Building, 368 Queen’s Road Central, (+852) 2851 6711 Rainbow Nails, 8/F, Thyrse House, 16 North Point – Shop 117, 1/F, Seven Seas Pottinger Street, Central, (+852) 2840 0660 Shopping Centre, 121 Kings Road, www.rainbownails.com.hk (+852) 2366 9117 4. La Cabine 2. Ocean Nail Tucked away in the hipster hood of Sai Ying Located next to Nail 88 (nothing like a bit of Pun, this little French beauty salon offers stiff competition) and even cheaper in price everything from manicures and pedicures to Spa BPZ, 12/F Sea Bird House, 22-28 is Ocean Nail. Although a lot smaller than body scrubs, massages, waxing, and facials. Wyndham Street, Central, (+852) 2524 1272 Nail 88, this gem of a salon offers manicures The two founders are best friends from www.spabpz.com at an even lower cost of $38, pedicures childhood who both graduated from Marb- for $88, and a full set of gel nails for $188. oeuf Beauty School in France, and now offer 6. Feel Good Factor Service is fast, the staff are friendly, and the affordable French style treatments including Established in 1999, this nail salon is one of range of colours is pretty diverse too. They manicures ($180), pedicures ($280), and soft the oldest in Hong Kong, and over the years, even offer head and shoulder massages, gel ($230 to $330), in their quirky little salon. has expanded its services to include facials, facials, and an aromatherapy ear candle While you’re there, check out the water-bed waxing, threading, spray tans, and massage. treatment, so it’s not only your nails that get which is heated to 37 degrees to help you The interior is spacious and provides a warm some love. An absolute winner if you’re on a relax – just try not to fall asleep! and welcoming ambiance, along with a tight budget. wide selection of Australian, American, and La Cabine, Shop 9, 68 – 80 Second Street, Sai European magazines to immerse yourself in Ocean Nail, Shop 1, 1/F, Cathay 88 Lodge, Ying Pun, (+852) 2549 9099 during your pamper session. They also serve 125 Wan Chai Road, Wan Chai, (+852) 2856 www.lacabinehk.com a selection of herbal teas, and wine glasses 2988 are available for those who prefer something a little stronger. A manicure costs $220,

22 Style & Beauty

Bliss Spa at the W Hotel

French manicures $250, and the manicure are also available in various lengths and make an impression? While you’re there, you and pedicure package will set you back $570 curvatures to suit your own styles. You can can get your eyelashes done too! – not bad if you’re looking to enjoy the full choose from five different designs – ‘Sexy’ spa experience with a few bubbles thrown in. eyes to match your ‘Party’ nails? The possib- aQuaeria, 1/F, Tung Yiu Commercial Building, Make sure to book ahead to secure your spot! ilities are endless! The salon has first-time 31A Wyndham Street, Central, (+852) 2526 trial offer for both nail and eyelash exten- 9313, www.aquaeria.asia Feel Good Factor, 2/F, Winsome House, sions, so you can enjoy a full makeover in 73 Wyndham Street, Central, (+852) 2530 one fell swoop. 11. The Nail Library 0610 Tucked away in the trendy neighbourhood www.feelgoodfactor.com.hk Canary, Room 1101, 11/F, 2 – 8 Wellington of Po Hing Fong in Sheung Wan, this chic, Street, Central, (+852) 2537 0038 industrial inspired salon has become wildly 7. Iyara Day Spa www.canary.com.hk popular among the ladies of Hong Kong. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and As well as boasting one of the largest col- relax in the tranquil and serene surroundings 9. NailOne lections of nail polish brands and colours, of this award-winning day spa. Specialising Claiming to be the ‘hippest nail arts studio in its also offers bespoke nail art designs cre- in facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, town’, cosy little Hollywood Road salon, Nai- ated by its team of talented artists. Regular body scrubs, wraps, and massages, Iyara lOne is the place to go for nails with attitude. manicures cost $270, while pedicures come caters to a diverse range of individuals and The team offer regular manicures and pedi- at $400, and a full set of soft get hands is nationalities, with a multilingual team. Get cures for $180 and $350 respectively, and $480. There’s also a selection of herbal teas, comfy on the sofa, sip on a delicious Lem- those wanting something a little funkier can coffee, or bubbles to help you relax. ongrass tea (or a glass of red or white wine if choose from eight different nail art styles, you get there after 5pm), and let the experts including ‘Bling Bling’, ‘Dark Secret’, ‘Forever The Nail Library, Level 1, 10 – 12 On Wo work their magic on your nails. French’, and ‘Lady in Red’. If you want to go Lane, Central, (+852) 2618 8623 An Ultimate Manicure (which includes a really wild, however, you can jazz up your 10-minutes massage) costs $350, while An paws with some gemstones, rhinestones, or Ultimate Pedicure (with 15-minute massage) swarovski for $5 to $10 per nail. Blingtastic! 12. Bliss Spa at the W Hotel will set you back $480. Shellac polish can be We couldn’t include our roundup without added for an extra $200, and kids under 10 NailOne, 14/F, C Wisdom Center, 37 a mention of this super plush spa, perched years old can enjoy 50% off all nail services. Hollywood Road, Central, (+852) 2537 2991 on the 72nd floor of the . www.nailone.com.hk Get The Upper Hand treatment ($625), as Iyara Day Spa, 2/F, 27 Hollywood Road, you sit back and enjoy a youth-inducing Central, (+852) 2523 8700 10. aQuaeria hand treatment and hot cream manicure, www.iyarabeauty.com From unique free-form painted designs to overlooking the stunning skyline. Or invite a minimalist manicure, this Japanese style male companion along to enjoy The Manly- 8. Canary salon has it all. A team of four Japanese spe- Cure treatment ($400). Chocolate lovers can Hailing from Japan, this spacious salon cialists are on hand to give you one funky opt for the Double Choc ($650) and dip their knows how to spruce up your nails to suit little makeover, and offer you the chance to feet in a hot chocolate milk skin-smoothing every mood, whether you’re feeling ‘Cute’ browse their selection of 200 gel colours to soak, while polishing off a tasty choccie and ‘Feminine’ or ‘Cool’ and ready to ‘Party’. find your perfect shade. Regular manicures treat. Now how’s that for A-List treatment? Regular manicures cost $180, and pedicures cost $280, while pedicures check in at $480, are $390, while a full set of hard gel hands is and a full set of soft gel hands costs $580. If Bliss Spa, 72/F, W Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road $450. Fancy nail art costs $20 per nail (hand you’re feeling adventurous, why not opt for West, Kowloon Station, Kowloon, (+852) or foot), and a range of eyelash extensions the 3D, hologram, or peacock nails and really 3717 2797 / www.w-hongkong.com/bliss-spa localiiz.com 23 1. The Movie Buff SIARÖ Director’s Chair by IKEA Home Ever dreamed of becoming a big movie director – the next Steven Spielberg perhaps? Sit back and relax in this fun creation from IKEA, as you watch your favourite film and daydream of Hollywood. This design is not only easy to store when not in use (as it folds up), it’s also easy to keep clean, as the fabric can be removed and washed. At a reasonable $399 $399, it’s an absolute bargain.

Cost: $399 Materials: Seat frame: solid eucalyptus, acrylic stain / Fabric: 100% polyester Contact: www.ikea.com/hk

Spotlight: Top 5 Chairs Words by Sophie PettitFunky Whether you are a rocker, a lounger, or a fan of funky furniture, one of these stylish seats is sure to suit your bootie. So sit down, get comfy, and take a look at our favourite chairs on the market.

$3,900 2. The Sun Junkie Carmen Sun Bed by Home Essentials Available in four different colours (white, black, brown, and walnut) this outdoor sun lounger is perfect for lazy afternoons on the rooftop or by the pool – if you’re lucky enough to have one. Fully waterproof and curved for comfort, you’ll be snoozing in bliss until the sun goes down.

Cost: $3,900 Materials: wood Contact: www.homeessentials.com.hk

3. The Cowboy $7,990 Le Corbusier LC4 Style Chaise Lounge – Cowhide Calling all cowboys! Unleash your inner John Wayne and kick back and relax on this playful cowhide upholstery chaise lounge. On sale for less than half its original price, you’ll have plenty of cash left over to stock up on classic western movie box sets and really feel the part.

Cost: Now $7,990 / Was $16,950 (47% discount) Materials: Triple chrome-plated frame with cow hide upholstery Contact: www.stockroom.com.hk

24 Home 4. The Art Lover Aria by Ulferts This quirky creation by Italian designer Antonio Rodriguez is every art lover’s dream. It might not be the most comfortable chair, but it’s cer- tainly stylish, and is sure to add a little abstract touch to your home – if you have a few thousand dollars lying around!

Cost: Now $35,910 / Was $79,800 (55% discount) Materials: Steel structure shaped laser, leather upholstery $83,190 Contact: www.ulferts.com.hk 5. The Nature Lover $35,910 Circle Chair by Hans J Wegner Manks Those looking for a classic, iconic lounge chair made from natural, earthy materials will love this elegant creation by Hans J. Wegner. Designed in 1986, when Wegner was 72 years old, the Circle Chair Spotlight: is one of his most characteristic designs and still offers great com- fort and flexibility. One of the many appealing features is that it is Top 5 Chairs light and transparent, very practical, and easy to move around.

Cost: $83,190 Funky Materials: Upholstered seat and neck rest in either fabric or leather Contact: www.manks.com

localiiz.com 25 Localiiz Property Picks: Park n’ Pay the Hong Kong Way

Words by Scarlett Whittell

Home With recent headlines revealing a new record price for a carpark space in Hong Kong — a mere 137 square feet space sold for an unbelievable HK$4.8 million — it seems this city has totally lost its mind. To bring the point home, we take a look at what HK$4.8 million can buy you across the globe.

Western Cape, South Africa Hawaii, USA Queensland, Australia

Boasting six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, You had us at ‘aloha’. Forget the car parking The land down under is the setting of this lavish living and dining areas, and a separ- space (and the car too) because we’re jetting beautiful 4-bedroom Australian oasis. High ate flatlet – not to mention rolling lawns, a off to Hawaii! It’s difficult to think of a reason ceilings, a gourmet kitchen, and a covered private pool, and numerous outdoor seating not to when this beautiful plantation house, entertaining area overlooking the private areas – this home is something else. Nestled complete with koa and avocado trees, is swimming pool are just a handful of the amongst the picturesque Cape mountainside calling. Wake up every morning to sea views, alluring attractions flaunted by this Queens- flora, with views to Table Mountain and the tend to your garden, and then head down land property. And to top it all off, it’s only Cape of Good Hope, your Hong Kong carpark to the beach for a swim – could life be any a 20-minute drive from the coast too. Life’s space just doesn’t stand a chance. more ideal? a beach! How much: $4,788,979* How much: HK$4,768,894* How much: HK$4,410,838* Contact: Sotheby’s (www.sothebysrealty.com) Contact: Sotheby’s (www.sothebysrealty.com) Contact: RE/MAX (www.realestate.com.au/)

Lisburn, Northern Ireland Rusutsu, Japan Texas, USA

Northern Ireland is our next port of call, due The coolest property on our list, this three- Well howdy indeed. Guess how many cars to the lure of this detached, 5-bedroom villa year-old ski chalet in the upcoming Rusutsu you can park in the sprawling 4.357-acre on the outskirts of Lisburn. In addition to al- Ski Resort in Japan is one for snow babies. grounds of this Texan ranch? A casual 1,385. most an acre of private land, this Irish retreat Hit the slopes, then fire up the wood stove, Now throw 6 huge bedrooms, 6 luxurious has panoramic country views to win you kick back on the outdoor deck, and admire bathrooms, granite kitchen surfaces, soaring over. Plus, Belfast is just minutes away by car. the high ceilings. With a price tag way below ceilings, outdoor terraces, and multiple living How much: $4,722,687* our $4.8 million budget, you’ll even have and dining areas into the mix, and still you’re Contact: Property News (www.propertynews. $750,000 left to splurge on winter gear too. left with over $500,000 to spare. Goodbye com) How much: $4,054,783* y’all, we’re off to Texas! Contact: Niseko Real Estate (www. How much: HK$4,256,808*

* Converted from local currency. Current exchanges nisekorealestate.com) Contact: Luciano Aires ( www.zillow.com) rates may yield a different value.

26 localiiz.com 27 How To: Ride a Lift Like a Boss

Hong Kong-based humanitarian Jeff

Until next time Until next Rotmeyer has been dominating our city’s elevator scene for years! He takes time out from teaching, running the Love 21 Foundation - a society which helps the Down syndrome and autistic community - and helping the homeless, to share his top tips on how to take control of the often underestimated steel box.

Studies show that the average Hong Konger 2. The Whistle 4. The Reach Around spends nearly an eighth of their life riding in Caring about social norms isn’t cool! If you When exiting the lift, after both of your feet lifts or thinking about them – so why not do can’t whistle, a good hum is always appre- have left the elevator, reach one arm back it in style?! ciated. to hold the lift doors from slamming closed on your fellow passengers. Automatic hero 1. The Greeting 3. The Offer status with this move and almost impossible Slam incoming passengers with a heavy “Where ya going?” is a cool shout. Having to not get a “Thank you!” “Hello!” just before they step into the lift! the confidence to hit another person’s but- This will keep fellow riders on their toes for ton is a winning move. 5. The Director the duration of the ride. They’ll be terrified Whether they let you aid their process or Taking charge is what bosses do! Outstretch that you’ll ask them a question or say more not, follow it up with a long slow “Niiicee…” your arms to direct who leaves first. Saying words. in your coolest voice. “Ladies first!” is the knockout punch! Happy days Hong Kong. Enjoy the ride!

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