JULY 2012

Par for the Kourse

oneyear anniversary

p38 prize toInterContinental be won inside Competition madnessShenzhen - massive Focus Fame-Y

Winehouse CONTENTS JULY 2012 Chief Executive Office: P.C. Director: Italiana Granni Consulting Director: shirley Editor: Simon Cormack Editing Consultant: May Guan 6 arts & events Financial Controller: Takuto Marking:Connie Sasa

14 eureka Designers: Fung, fish, kaka Publication Co-coordinator: Rain, Nana 18 muse Photographer: Alex, Jan

20 fighting fit Contributors Nigel Whittaker Matthew Friedman 22 yummy John Richardson Anita Riley Donna Livingston simon edward smith Ray Hecht Andy Reeves 24 wine jason rey Victoria Lee Jeff Helmsley Cynthia G

Contact Tel: 86 20 8365 1980 / 8365 2811 Fax: 86 20 8365 2566 Email: [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected] CITY Window 4 Cover Story 8 42 12 Par for supremos fortune the Kourse

jetsetter 15 COMPETITION WINNERS

Fame-Y Winehouse InterContinental Shenzhen Focus

Here are the results of July's competition from our wine section, CRU. Here are the results of July's competition from our Destination Hong Kong & Shenzhen section, sponsored by InterContinental Shenzhen.

One lucky entrant can win the chance to stay at the hotel for one night, include complimentary breakfast for two guests. All you need to do is July's prize was 2 bottles of our Simply Summer wines. The answer to the answer a simple question and the prize could be yours for the taking. question:

'Where does Muscatel come from?' was 'Spain'. July's answer is as follows:

How many districts is the Shenzhen S.E.Z. separated into? - 6

Winner: Winners: Johnny Jordan Andy Bryant

Congratulations to him. Congratulations to you all. Check out our new competition on page 35. Many thanks to our sponsors for supplying the prizes for this competition. Many thanks to our sponsors for supplying the prizes for this competition. Let us lead you to our secret rooftop garden.

Let us serve you champagne beside the bubbling stream.

Let us invite the butteries to your morning Tai Chi routine.

Let us turn a weekend away into an invigorating escape.

Valid until September 16,2012 starting at RMB 1,788* per night Book two nights and stay for three. • Overnight accommodations •• DailyDaily AmericanAmerican BreakfastBreakfast forfor twotwo inin selectedselected hotelhotel restaurantsrestaurants INTRIGUE YOU •• OneOne complimentarycomplimentary nightnight —— staystay threethree nights,nights, paypay forfor two.two. •• OvernightOvernight parkingparking •• DailyDaily internetinternet accessaccess andand locallocal callscalls inin guestroomguestroom *Prices*Prices areare subjectsubject toto 15%15% serviceservice charge.charge. Reservations:Reservations: 0755-2222-22220755-2222-2222 Website:Website: http://www.ritzcarlton.com/http://www.ritzcarlton.com/ ShenzhenShenzhen

©2012 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC city window 04

Both Hands Yabuku on the Wheel Yakuza As of the middle of last month, the police have been Blackburn's Nigerian-born super cracking down on 'one-arm-bandits' - those who like striker is set to land in Guangzhou to multitask whilst in control of their vehicle. There as the latest recruit for the city's will be verbal warnings and on-the-spot fines (¥100) R&F team. This year’s joint-fourth for people found guilty of simultaneously driving top scorer in the Premier League is and either using their phones or smoking cigarettes. joining the ever increasing camp of Nobody said you couldn’t fix your make-up, though! foreign talent in the Chinese national league and is bound to dominate in a deal that is reportedly '99 per-cent complete'…

Hong Kong's health authority stated that a 2-year-old boy has been confirmed as suffering from the dreaded Influenza A (H5N1) infection, and is currently receiving intensive care at Princess Margaret Hospital. This strain of the illness is the same as that of wild birds detected in 2011 and 2012 and in the imported human infection case in late 2010. He is supposed to have started experiencing the telltale symptoms after a visit to Guangdong. His condition is still described as US on being critical… the Move The U.S. Consulate General is due to move into new digs in Zhujiang New Town in early 2013. It will be bigger than your average 'visa outlet', spread over seven Shy buildings and covering a multitude of services, including The Birds! marine security guard quarters and a warehouse. This Spiderman larger property has been designed to help deal with the growing number of applications for US visas from A silent hero who saved a toddler from falling to her TheBirds! potential immigrants. death from the fourth floor of an apartment building in Guangzhou has been found after a 'manhunt'. The man shimmied his way up the building to rescue the infant, only to disappear immediately after. Mr. Zhou, an electrician, says that he is used to working on exteriors and had no time Tat's Crazy! to think about his own safety… A ban has been placed on the performance of plastic surgery and tattoos on minors in Guangzhou - something that should have been done a long time ago. If youngsters Bank aren’t allowed to smoke, then it hardly seems consistent to let them deface their bodies. The age of consent for this practice Deception will be raised to 18 in the not-too-distant future, to the relief of millions of concerned A man who was appointed as parents. a municipal Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) member after claiming to have bought a U.S. bank has been detained for alleged fraud. Whistle The Atlantic Bank of America later turned out to be completely While You fabricated. He is accused of creating fake invoices worth millions of yuan, Work resulting in losses of tax revenue of It's nice to see a positive reaction to up to ten times that figure. Don’t human rights allegations against China - bite the hand that feeds you! the government is set to write a new bill concerning the regulations of work safety in the country. The Legislative Affairs Office of the State Council, established in 2002, has been responsible for legislation aimed at reducing industrial accidents and protecting the lives of China's diligent workforce. The amendments are set to further tighten the loop on contractors and employers, ensuring that 'safety always comes first'. Watch the public opinion polls change after that bright idea…!

arts & events 06

tive Suite® Adobe® Crea adshow Guangzhou 6 Ro y 4th July, 2012) (Wednesda The next line in the legacy of Adobe® is here. Every designer's wet dream collection of tools that makes almost any type of Independentth Ju Chly,i 2012)na in [email protected]. LiveHouse media come alive has just released its latest (Friday 13 version, including everybody's favourite Photoshop. Some of the industries experts There are a lot of signs that China's music scene is not just about horrendous, and the firepower behind the software's manufactured pop acts and out-of-touch mainland legends clinging on to whatever programming are coming to Guangzhou fame they can. It's all about the kids. Maybe Mars, a brand new record label, which to give a practical demonstration of its focuses on representing the more alternative of fresh bands and musicians crafting intricacies. I can't wait…! the future of music in China, is coming to Guangzhou to showcase their findings so far, including Carsick Cars and Mr. Graceless… The Westin Guangzhou, 6 Linhe Zhong Lu, Tianhe District, Guangzhou. Star Department Live House, 1850 Creativity Zone, 200 East Fangcun Avenue, Liwan District, Guangzhou. Time: 13:30-17:30 Time: 20:00-23:30 Information: (+86) 10 8586 4581/2/3 Price: ¥100 / ¥80 student e-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.douban.com/event/16495695/ Website: http://adobeevent.bizcom.com.cn/

xhibition Deep E The st ay 1 June – (Frid th October, ay 30 Tuesd 2012) l Day tiona Take a simulated journey to the tional ch Na ay BBC Na Fren aturd bottom of the deepest oceans on Orchestra of Wales Party 2012 (S our wonderful planet, and have a look at some of the creatures Guangzhouth July,Conc 2012)ert 14th July, 2012) il y 15 that lurk within its depths. You O (Sunda are going to see crazy looking f the Soul – Under the watchful eye of Stage o bottom feeders with skin like g Exhibition by Fuay It's going to feel like the Last the French Chamber of Paintin aturd leather and chops like hoover allery (Sth July, 2012) Night at the Proms in the Commerce French national nozzle attachments, as well as Lili@Fei G ay 13 Albert Hall when the Welsh day is here, so don your berets. th June – Frid some beautiful seabed landscapes 30 musical maestros turn up in There is a concession for crafted over thousands of the city for one leg of their Asia members of the CCIFC, the centuries. The exhibition was If you are a fan of rich oily tour; the Xinghai Concert Hall co-organisers, for this event, originally held in Paris from colours swashed across fragrant is surely a worthy venue of such which has a theme of 'Canton November 2007 to May 2008, canvas and are in the Dong Shan talent. The symphony orchestra, Plage' - roughly translated as and its popularity has seen it area of the city, then pop into this usually in residence at the St. Guangzhou beach. Sounds transform into one of the most intimate little exhibition of works David’s Hall venue in Cardiff, like an oxymoron, but I’m sure mind-boggling displays you could by the artist Fu Lili for a scene as makes annual international there are plenty of other things ever see without taking illegal colourful as the bright summer tours and appearances to do than building sand castles, substances… sky. I could go into the ins and throughout the world, under the anyway. outs of exactly what the concept is Guangdong Museum, name of BBC NOW. behind the collection, but it is the 2 Zhujiang Dong Lu, Dong Fang Hotel, usual 'self expression' and 'inner Zhujiang New Town, Xinghai Concert Hall, Ersha Island, 120 Liu Hua Lu, Tianhe District, Guangzhou. reflection' babel. Just decide for Haizhu District, Guangzhou. Yuexiu District, Guangzhou. yourself… Opening Hours: 09:00-16:00 Time: 20:00 Time: 19:30-00:00 (closed on Mondays) Price: ¥280, ¥380, ¥480, ¥680, Price: ¥160 CCIFC members / Price: ¥30 Ground Floor, Estate Plaza, 5 Nong Lin ¥880, ¥1280 ¥260 non-members Information: (+86) 20 3804 Xia Lu, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou. Booking: 400 108 3388 Information: (+86) 20 8186 6886 Price: Free admission Website: http://www.concerthall. 2626 Website: com.cn/ e-mail: [email protected] http://www.gdmuseum.com Take a simulated journey to the bottom of the deepest oceans on our wonderful planet, and have a look at some of the creatures that lurk within its depths. You are going to see crazy looking bottom feeders with skin like leather and chops like hoover nozzle attachments, as well as some beautiful seabed landscapes crafted over thousands of centuries. The exhibition was originally held in Paris from November 2007 to May 2008, and its popularity has seen it transform into one of the most mind-boggling displays you could ever see without taking illegal substances…

Guangdong Museum, 2 Zhujiang Dong Lu, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou. Opening Hours: 09:00-16:00 (closed on Mondays) Price: ¥30 Information: (+86) 20 3804 6886 Website: http://www.gdmuseum.com cover story 08 Par for the

by Jason Rey KourseYou thought the guy jumping over the bin and diving over the bushes was wacko and running from an imaginary swarm of bees or Colin Farrell's SWAT team, but then you noticed that it wasn't fear in his eyes; it was courage, determination and skill. What you must have witnessed, then, is a Parkour ‘traceur' in the zone. He is focused, energised, driven and ready for a challenge with a twist of adrenalin. Maybe you've seen it in the movies (opening scene of Casino Royale - perfect example), or maybe you've seen a guy on youtube daringly leap a stair-rail, but only qualify for a few Hail Mary's and a trip to the hospital. Perhaps, you were throwing dumbbells around or dodging trolleys at feeding time, and you didn't realise that the dude beside you was a Parkour extraordinaire. hat the hell is 'Parkour' anyway, you might ask? Meet Matt Talbot, a Parkour traceur (practitioner), teacher, If you check the definition you'll find that it's a international Parkour magazine owner and expert on the subject. He physical discipline and non-competitive sport, has been teaching the art to beginners, intermediates and advanced Wwhich focuses on efficient movement through obstacles. But, if you practitioners in Canada since 2010, and now he frequents the Total look closely, you might agree that there is a sense of competition within Fitness gym in Kecun - this is where I cornered him with many a oneself, as the self is challenged to physically and mentally execute question about himself and his unusual passion. the best possible scenario - slightly akin to Bruce Lee's philosophy of simplicity, economy and efficiency. When I opened up the interview with the line, "Hey Matt, nobody knows what Parkour is. Why don't you show us a move?" He Apparently, it started in the green jungle and ended up in the urban immediately replied by grabbing a vertical pole near the base with one jungle. A French naval officer by the name of Georges Herbert was hand, and grabbing the pole at shoulder height with the other hand. impressed by the agility, flexibility, and nimbleness of some indigenous He then proceeded to raise his body off the ground horizontally (like a tribes of Africa, even though they were without any gymnastics training. flag) and held that position for more than ten seconds. The dismount He decided to bring these skills back to France early last century and involved a click of the fingers and a wink - needless to say, I was ended up training the military using such methods. These techniques impressed right there and then. came into the public eye when Casino Royale hit the screens, and now they are incorporated into military training regimes all around the Anybody that's ever done more than three sit-ups or leg-raises in their world. Since 2006, especially, interest groups have sprouted in many life knows that this move takes amazing levels of core strength. Matt cities around the world, and just recently, a bonafide Parkour traceur isn’t a bulky guy with big muscles (which you may think are required to guru just landed on our doorstep. execute such a technique) but rather he is of a lean athletic build, similar to a 200m runner or hurdler. Core strength is the holy grail of fitness achievements as it stabilises the whole body, increasing overall speed, agility, and strength, whilst also lessening the chance of injury. A great six-pack going hand- in-hand with core strength is almost a given, too. Besides core strength and waving the flag around, are there other benefits?

Matt: "The aim of Parkour is to overcome obstacles whilst moving efficiently through the environment, and it is also an expression of the self through combined art and exercise..."

I then proceeded to ask if there were any ways to apply Parkour skills and philosophy into other areas of life. This must have triggered some good memories, as I noticed a growing smile and his eyes lighting up.

Matt believes that Parkour has helped him to become happier, more successful, more pragmatic, more assertive and has boosted his overall confidence, as he views the world and the obstacles therein as challenges that invite us all to be better, happier people.

Sounds like the ideal lifestyle that we all aspire for, but is there also any benefit for the romantic side of our life, besides avoiding capture from an ex we’d rather not meet again?

Matt had a rather breathtaking reply to this question, and it involved a proposal to his fiancée at a celebrity dinner for the launch of his magazine Breathe Parkour, and an unknown 'cat hang' position to rival the Kama Sutra handbook…. Touché!

So what can we do to join this club of 'super core strength', 'philosophical application', 'romantic confidence' and 'conquering of obstacles'?

Matt is starting some classes soon in Guangzhou and anybody is welcome. He says that people of both sexes, all ages and all physical conditions (except those with serious injury or disability, obviously) are able to learn and enjoy this relatively new and totally exciting art form. A beginner course takes about 8 weeks and is mostly practiced on a nice patch of grass. Intermediates and advanced classes can practice with Matt in a few key locations around Guangzhou, which he has been scoping out since his arrival in the city.

Parkour is a workout for the body and mind. You can get so much out of it, from intense cardio, to core strength training… even mental exercise, which is a plus for preserving the noggin. What Parkour will do for other areas of your life is priceless, too, and Matt is the man to show us the way.

Find more info on his website, and contact Matt at this email address for more information about the up and coming classes in Guangzhou:

http://www.breathepk.ca/ [email protected] THE ST. REGIS SHENZHEN & SUGAR

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by Simon Cormack TalkiesThe miracle of the modern fascination with staying in constant contact with people has catapulted an already incomprehensibly successful company even further into the galaxy of global business stardom. We look at WeChat, the next big Skype.

'm not a big fan of touch screen typing - if I'm Whether it be for general communication between buddies, honest, I’m no hand model. My fingers closer flirting with a potential romantic interest, or a more crafty resemble a bunch of chipolatas, rather than those type of free commercial promotion for small businesses, Iof a prodigious pianist. Neither do I have the best hand-eye Weixin has become an overnight celebrity, without showing coordination in the world. any signs of ending up as a passing fad.

So, as an iPhone owner, a fresh approach to short messaging It is especially beneficial for Chinese people - texting in is a welcome respite from typing 'Ho', instead of 'Hi' - my 'fat Chinese is tough, as the language is as much about sounds gingers arw alwayd responsibke for dpelling mustakes' (trans. as it is about symbols. Many Mandarin speakers prefer to 'fat fingers are always responsible for spelling mistakes'). dictate text messages, adding to the overall popularity of the Anyway, I think you get the point… PTT feature. From a commercial aspect, the application also offers large WeChat, as it was rebranded in April this year, or Weixin companies the ability to produce their own bespoke tools to (literally meaning 'tiny/micro message') is an MSN-like chat enable employees to communicate quickly and work together service, which links you with any other user, facilitated by a by voice, completely free of charge. simple Internet connection, either by typing text or a push- to-talk feature - much like a walkie-talkie. WeChat was not the first of its kind in China, however, as the preceeding Talkbox and MiTalk, created by Xiaomi The whole novelty of transforming your handset into a Tech, served as the catalyst for Tencent. But the giant QQ two-way radio is quite exciting, you'd have to admit, and empire helped get the name out to the masses in the shortest everybody has caught the bug - I even managed to persuade possible time. my extremely technologically-unfriendly parents to get involved! So, it wasn't the first, and it surely won't be the last, not in a country where most business models are based on tweaked As another groundbreaking concept from one of the World versions of others already in practice. Wide Web's greatest profiteers, it seems there is no end of scope for e-based businesses, even despite the predicted slowdown.

QQ wizard Ma Hua Teng ( 马化腾 ), or 'Pony' as he is called, presumably only by his closest friends, was obviously not content with dominating just the Chinese market with QQ, Weibo (Chinese Twitter, if you like) and his English-language extension QQ International, and has now branched out into an application that can touch anyone, anywhere, anytime – without the obvious language barrier.

WeChat is available in English, Indonesian, Portuguese, Thai and Vietnamese, in addition to the simplified and traditional forms of the Chinese language, and is compatible with every major operating platform. As a result of this flexibility, according to Tencent’s CEO, as of last March, the service has attracted over 100 million users. BEGIN ANEW 焕新出发

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jetsetter 15 by Simon Edward Smith Viva Nevada

'We were somewhere around Barstow, on the edge of the desert, when the drugs began to take hold.'

A rather interesting take on one of the cities in the world that never sleeps, I think you would agree. Maybe it’s not the most conventional way to do Vegas, but if you go with that opening sentence of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas or similar expectations gently repeating in your mind, you’re almost certain to run into some excitement.

This is a little bit of sensory overload that I shall unashamedly share with you over the next few pages, for your safety, reference and, of course, your information. And I’ve decided, given the large volume of things that occurred during my ‘trip’, to split the goings on into four categories; Dining, Nightlife, Comfort and Miscellaneous Comfort Dining When you've been sat upright for more than fourteen hours, 33,000 feet in the Vegas is a haven for the gluttonous or selective diner. There's no shortage of air, heading for a massage after checking in is the only thing to do. The full body delicious dishes, buffets, platters, spreads or barbeques to get stuck into, morning, massages (80 minutes, $215) at THE Hotel Bathhouse Spa (no it's not a typo, noon or night. What better way is there to start off a day than heading to the THE is the actual name) are out of this world. Let jet lag and luggage carousel Bellagio for breakfast? ($16.95+tax Monday to Saturday, more at weekends stress dissolve, as you ready yourself for the days ahead. owing to champagne brunch). A walk around the food layout is a solid three- But if you’re a glutton for pampering, you will be blown away by the industrial- minute workout. sized sauna and steam rooms at The Spa at Aria. When it all gets too much for you, take a lie down on one of the hot stone beds, or relax in one of the four For lunch, how about a simple but mouth-watering stone baked pizza at The different Jacuzzis. Monte Carlo's D’vino? If you're looking for a slightly more than special Italian eatery, then a superb Vegas is known for its glitzy and ritzy hotels and it's certainly worth taking at choice would be The Aria's Sirio Restaurante. A place where traditional and gander at them. The Venetian with its in-house gondolas and canal system is contemporary Tuscan-inspired dishes are served in a beautiful and engaging vast, New York New York fun and homely, The Encore stuffy but full of swagger, environment. The Bellagio classy and for couples, and finally The Aria is just pure decadence. The best way to see these hotels in all their sparkling glory is by a walk down the Vegas is big on its steak houses, (Morton's, STK, Delmonico) but Chef Ramsay infamous Strip (the main road that runs straight through Vegas)…and it goes is currently ruling the rib eye roost with his new restaurant at The Paris called without saying that it should be at night. STEAK. You're proudly told by the door staff upon entering that you're no longer in Las Many of the main hotels have poolside cabanas that can be rented out by small Vegas, but 'central London'. Be that as it may, the or large groups for the day, with prices varying from $250 -600, depending on selection of cuts is as impressive as the food itself. the event. Just imagine washing down a juicy and succulent slab of sirloin with a chilled bottle of imported Whilst there, if you are feeling peckish, be careful not to order a $100 platter German ale in this ultimate modern steakhouse. that purports to be able to feed 4-6 people, quite shockingly for excessive Vegas - a small child could comfortably finish five portions! It's best to head to the cafés Also: that are actually in the hotel, a staggering 300-yard walk from the poolside. Noodle Shop at Mandalay Bay STK at The Cosmopolitan Wolfgang Puck at The MGM Grand If you are just looking to 'chillax' one night and soak up Hydraulic Excavators is something every sane human the sheer scale of 'The Capital of Second Chances', the being should try, as their website asks, 'Ever played a Ghost Bar at The Palms has some pretty spectacular game of 'Excavator Basketball,' or built and ridden your views. On an outdoor sky deck that offers an almost own 'Bulldozer Teeter-Totter?' Do something different 360-degree panoramic view of the glittering strip, you for a day and take time off the Strip. (http://www. can dance the night away in a different style of high digthisvegas.com/) class. ( http://www.palms.com/nightlife/las-vegas- ghostbar/) Also: The Gun Store. For those with no idea about firearms Also: (most of us then), go for the $129.95 COALITION The Deuce Lounge at The Aria package. After firing 40 shots from a M249 SAW, 25 Marquee at The Cosmopolitan ( http://www. from an M4 and 20 from M9 pistol, you're street- marqueelasvegas.com/) cred will be sure to infinitely “shoot-up”. ( http:// PS. If you're hoping to reserve a table at one of the big thegunstorelasvegas.com/) Nightlife clubs, it’s unlikely you’ll get much change out of $4,000. Jet ski, wakeboard or powerboat your way around the You'll be able to catch the televised Billboards Awards in May largest reservoir in the United States. ( http://www. and Elton is one year into his three-year residency at Caesar's Miscellaneous boatinglakemead.com/) Palace. However any time day or night (slight exaggeration For the culture vultures out there - 'Claude Monet: perhaps) you'll be able to see David Copperfield at the Though it would be remiss of me not to mention Impressions of Light' exhibition at The Bellagio. ( www. MGM Grand ( http://www.ticketmaster.com/), it seems like gambling, plenty of other activities could take its place. bellagio.com/amenities/gallery-of-fine-art.aspx) the man doesn't leave the theatre. If you know how to play then you know how to play. If you don’t, take it slowly and ask the dealers what to do ROUND UP: For that big blow out you’ll be wanting on at least one night, (they offer ADVICE not promises!). It's a lot to take in, I’ll admit. A little additional piece of the aptly named XS nightclub at the Encore hotel is one advice: Vegas, and the rest of the country for that matter, Godzilla of a nightclub. Read what one online club reviewer Casino War (if your card has a bigger number than the has a rather annoying culture of tipping everyone (or wrote: dealer's, you win), Roulette and Craps can be quickly just plain bribing when it comes to getting into the grasped and thus fun for total beginners. Drinks are clubs). The point is that if you’re going to be frugal, it's 'We are talking about a club so spacious, so decadent that free when you're 'on' a table and there are no clocks or best to stay in your hotel room. even Hollywood's elite will make it the very reason for windows so be careful not to get too comfortable – you Suggested length of stay: for the time it takes to fly there coming to Vegas for the weekend: a real destination, not an are gambling remember. from Guangzhou (15 hours total), no less than five days, after thought.' any longer than ten and you may not physically be able If it is speed you're looking for then get a taxi (around to get yourself to the airport, and in a similar economic If you're getting a little hot under the collar surrounded by 30 minutes from the Strip) to Exotics Racing. I chose state to Greece and Spain. all the beautiful people there, throw yourself in the club to drive a Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera LP570 swimming pool…my friends and I did! (accompanied by an instructor) and experienced seven For more information on Las Vegas head to the laps of pure g-force. following websites:

The only down side (apologies to the Yanks reading http://www.lasvegas.com/ this) was the overly-keen, hung-over Americans who http://www.visitlasvegas.com/ were constantly whooping and hollering and giving http://www.lonelyplanet.com/usa/las-vegas each other high fives in the waiting room. (http://www. exoticsracing.com/)

On a slightly different tip, unique is a good word to describe the 'Dig This' experience. Throwing tyres and creating mounds of sand using Bulldozers and eureka 18 Wo-Man on the Moon!

A rocket carrying the Shenzhou 9 spacecraft and a pioneering female astronaut has been whipped up into the unknown in order to board the Tiangong 1 space station, Xinhua news reports state. This is China's fourth manned space flight in as many years, cementing China’s place in space exploration history. It became only the third country to independently send a man into space in 2003, behind the more obvious Americans and Russians. It won’t be all fun and games for the astronauts onboard: the Shenzhou 9 spacecraft will also dock with the Tiangong 1 - an experimental module currently orbiting Earth – and the crew will undertake vital tests whilst on board. The project is an integral part of China's plan to establish a full orbiting space station. Currently under construction in Beijing, the 60-tonne manned space city is due for completion by 2020. China was rejected from joining the mammoth International Space Station project, a much more ambitious effort with a coalition of 16 countries, supposedly due to American opposition. Looks like the States are in fear of the opposition!

Holey-Moly! Brainy boffins have come up with a fabric that can filter out carbon dioxide, just through its unique structure. NOTT-202 is a 'metal-organic framework', i-BAD… similar to a sponge, which can soak up a CO2 and other gases under high pressure. This is especially groundbreaking as it can hopefully be transformed into a system that will be able to remove the harmful gas from power plant and Big brother is watching you! I suppose you could actually say that it's factory emissions. Big Daddy - we all know that Apple is the king of entertainment and communication devices these days. A Californian federal judge has decided This method of extraction has been developed over the past few years, due to that Apple must face its plaintiffs in court against the claim that the company the material's metallic core elements, yet has thwarted scientists because of its has been unlawfully monitoring the actions of its users. limited capacity to store gases. The consumers feel like the company has violated their privacy through The study was pioneered by those in the know at the universities of Nottingham creating applications that record their movements and habits. In fact, this is the and Newcastle, in the U.K., where scientists found a chemical system that culmination of numerous lawsuits filed against the giant of industry in recent seemed to solve this problem of selectively storing a significant amount of CO2. months.

To confirm their findings, they sought partnership with a team at the Diamond Apple fervently sticks by its defence - 'every user is Light Source in Oxfordshire and the Science & Technology Facilities Council's given the option to check the regulations of the Daresbury Laboratory, to get a microscopic view of their creation. user agreement for each and every app'. It's a fair point: we all know that we should check, but are The bi-part structure, according to its often guilty of laziness… 'parents', is a completely new form of porous material. As such, research into just The judge in charge, Lucy Koh, stated that how similarly paired frameworks can be there was 'some ambiguity' as to whether all created may help researchers find a range the information that was collected had been of materials suited to soaking up specific permitted. More serious claims addressing gases. Let's hope it really works, and then computer fraud, wiretaps, and records we can literally breathe more easily! disclosure were dismissed as fabrications. It would seem that the eyes of the law are siding with Apple – who would have guessed it?????? 查询及报名，请联系陈小姐 [email protected] 020 8331 513. by Victoria Lee & Cynthia G Plaid Lad The Gucci spring/summer 2012 men's collection has catapulted plaid and tweed back into the marketplace, as a representation of genuine British style. The re- interpretation of man's faith for luxury and sophistcation has created what they like to call MUSE the new 'Gucci attitude'!

Happy Monk http://www.gucci.com/ Women usually judge men according to their choice of shoes. You should really compliment your style from head to toe if you want to be the subject of second glimpses and blushing smiles, especially at night. That's why we recommend a pair of John Lobbs, with the side buckle and mahogany finish; suitable for every style of clothing.

John Lobb St. Crepin Monks http://us.estore.johnlobb.com/ (RRP: US$515) MUSE 21

Off the Cuff This sophisticated stainless steel bangle, the Newton Cuff, is synonymous with style and precision. With a modern, geometric shape, it is especially designed for men. The expertly crafted Jet Hematite crystals confer a subtle sparkle to this impressive creation.

Swarovski Newton Cuff http://www.swarovski.com/ (RRP: £1,700)

Ironing Out the Creases CAZAL Formulated containing highly concentrated http://www.cazal-eyewear.com Vitamin-C, this skin concentrate, containing (RRP: ¥3,500) Vitamin C, has been shown to improve skin appearance and texture. It also helps reduce the appearance of Marionette lines from the corners of the mouth, leading towards the chin, improves the appearance of crows feet lines and wrinkles, as well as Sub-orbital wrinkles in the eye area. You are going to Ray-Ban look like a fresh leaf of A4! http://china.ray-ban.com/ (RRP: ¥2,200)

Kiehls Powerful Strength Line Reducing Concentrate 75ml http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/ (RRP: GBP£59)

TOM FORD EYE WEAR http://www.tomford.com/ (RRP: ¥3,200) Shady Baby The sun is shining way too brightly to go out without any slinky eyewear, and, to be honest, it’s the moment that sunglass lovers have been waiting for all winter. Now you can crack on a pair without looking like a prize Charlie. Look like a movie star and preserve the quality of your most precious sense all at the same time. We’ve picked out three slick styles for this sunny season…

Mighty Margiela MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA will create a one-time collection for high-street hero, H&M, which will comprise men's and women's ready-to-wear, as well as accessories - due to launch in 230 stores worldwide and online on November 15th this year. 'Maison Martin Margiela is one of the most important and influential fashion houses of the past three decades,' according to H&M creative advisor Margareta van den Bosch. 'I am so excited by this radical collaboration which will give fashion lovers around the world the chance to wear special pieces by Maison Martin Margiela. This collaboration will be a great and memorable fashion moment.'

http://www.hm.com/ http://www.maisonmartinmargiela.com/ fightling fit 24

Fighting Fit by Jason Rey Best fruit in China – Blueberries Best Meat in China – Lean Pork Loin

You can find these little wonder berries in most You won't turn any corner in China without seeing this number as the most of the big supermarkets. Even though they are featured meat in most restaurants. You might even notice that so many of the imported and have travelled a long way, they different cuts of pork have been done in a myriad of interesting ways. Although are still packing huge amounts of nutritional it's so often eaten in Chinese restaurants, it shouldn't be snobbed upon while benefits. strolling through the meat section. When trimmed of fat, pork is leaner and has a lot of protein and Small, daily, baby-sized handfuls of more B-vitamins than most meats. B-vitamins these double your anti-oxidant intake, are great for many bodily functions, which are allegedly good for fighting including metabolism and energy cancer and ageing, although the jury production. is still 'out' on these claims. One thing the blueberry can boast is that it’s full For good results that will make you lick of other benefits, too, which shouldn't be your lips; fry a lean pork loin/chop in overlooked, such as; vitamins A, C, and B1, a little olive oil, garlic, chilli and ginger. beta-carotene, potassium, zinc, iron, calcium, Serve it up with a healthy salad and magnesium, as well as high fibre and low you've got yourself a spicy little winner. I calorie contents. They also contain anti-bacterial have to say, my favourite way is to roast that properties, which are greatly appreciated by blood vessels and leave blessings all bad boy, Sunday lunch style! the way down the urinary passage.

Is the blueberry a clear winner yet? If that's not enough of a resume, blueberries also help to prevent strokes by having positive effects on blood pressure. Studies on rats have also shown signs of improved memory and motor skills, and reversal of age-related deterioration of balance and coordination - lucky rodents.

Throw a handful into your next smoothie, toss a few onto your cereal or into your yogurt, or devour a few on the run - super delicious. Best Gym Tip - Turn up the adrenalin

How many people work out in the gym half- heartedly - doing just one set or half a set Best Veg in China – Spinach with little passion, and then moving-on. These are the people that usually leave Dark green leafy vegetables can be lightly steamed or used in soups, casseroles after 20 minutes, quit after one month, or stir-fries. One of the kings of the leaf is Popeye's favourite, spinach. It is most and aren’t able to show off much physical nutritious eaten raw in salads and on healthy sandwiches. Those peppery leaves change. are high in iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, carotenoids and B, C, E and K vitamins. It's not ideal to boil, but actually, after washing, the residue water will If you want better results in the gym, want more than suffice. So, just throw them in a saucepan and simmer them down with to enjoy yourself more, and want to avoid a pinch of salt, without losing any of the nutrients as with straight boiling. injury, you just need to psyche yourself up. Focus, visualise, take a deep breath and work with some intensity. Intensity needn’t be translated into massive, heavy weights. Proper breathing, muscle contraction, and technique can increase the blood flow to the muscles, give you more power, give you more energy, and avoid unwanted injuries.

So next time you are looking at the exercise equipment, psyche yourself up mentally and physically by taking two deep breaths before starting, and controlled breathing while in motion (exhaling on maximum muscle contraction), and be passionate about strong controlled movements.

Mainland

by Anita Riley InMolars the old days, you could simply distinguish between mainland Chinese and those from Hong Kong or Taiwan just by the poor quality of their teeth, but the same can’t be said nowadays.

Teeth, as one of our essential organs, have three significant is another positive point. aspects of functionality: mastication, pronunciation and aesthetics. However, the Chinese citizens of yesteryear didn’t Now, everybody, from all walks of life, not just movie stars care too much for the look of their grinders, nor did they and singers, are taking care of their teeth and understanding have the kind of money to allow regular visits to the dentist. the importance of regularly visiting the dentist. People used to live by such ideals as: 'it's only a problem if it really hurts', or 'teeth naturally fall out during your Therefore, people living in big cities have many clinics life, especially with old age'. Regular check-ups and dental to choose from, all offering the latest in treatments, like hygiene were almost non-existent. Invisalign orthodontic treatment, LAVATM zirconia restoration, full ceramic restoration, dental bleaching, As a result of this lack of custom, the industry struggled to periodontal treatment, and dental implants, to name but a develop, and technology was primitive, leaving dentists little few. Guangzhou as the 3rd biggest city in the country seems option but to adopt a ‘yank it out’ policy. to have caught the first ticket.

It was actually the actors and actresses of the Silver Screen Dr. Yin Men Law, a private dentist on the mainland, finished who were the first form of catalyst, which pushed dentistry her dental study in the UK, and set up her dental clinic in forward in China. The so-called 'Hollywood Smile' was the Guangzhou, in 1943, which was the first dental clinic in ultimate dream for those who want to be as glamorous as mainland China. Since 1996, following the concept of Dr. their idol. So, in the last couple of decades, the elite from this Law, her grandson Dr. Victor Zhong set up the Sunshine country used to head overseas for supposedly superior dental Dental Clinic, which keeps following the latest dental care. This practice was very expensive and inconvenient, techniques and international exchange programs. With the especially for serious procedures like root canals and aim of 'creating smiles', it provides international quality bleaching, but they had little or no choice at that time. dental service for locals and foreigners in Guangzhou.

The recent economic growth in the last ten years in China has brought with it a similar improvement in the country's Sunshine Dental Clinic, Xing Guo Lu, dental hygiene industry. Chinese citizens are demanding the Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe District, Guangzhou. best of everything, now they can afford it. The costs in the Tel: (+86) 20 8753 8385 / 8758 2499 mainland still remain relatively cheap in comparison, which http://weibo.com/yysj2012 motors 22 MaximumMaximum ScovillesScovilles

Porsche by Andy Reeves

PanameraTo be honest with you, I'm fed up of people banging GTS on about how ugly the Panamera is. It has become a bit of a cliché, to say the least, and, even though I kind of agreed from the off, in true underdog spirit, the thing has grown on me, and I quite frankly can't get enough of it now.

dmittedly, the Porsche design team has basically a carbon copy of the Turbo, whilst the whole 'workings' your back as you create enough power to accelerate the Earth's been following a minimalistic approach of the motor are naturally aspirated, much the same as the 4S. rotation speed. You are guaranteed a noticeable difference when to body styling over the past decade, The chrome has been gutted and replaced with matte blacking, comparing with the 4S, due to the uprated air intake system and especially so on the 911 - it's like playing a giving it a subtle, yet sinister, look. I got particularly hot under the modified camshafts and the resultant extra 30bhp - who doesn't round of 'spot the difference' when putting previous models side collar about the black twin back box; very chilling when contrasted appreciate a bit of extra power? Aby side. The odd tweak here, the shaving of a few precious pounds with the signature scarlet GTS paint job on the shell. there. But that’s about it. The best part about it all is that the motions of flooring it seem You would be right in thinking that the sheer weight of this smooth, minus the drag, which you get from the Turbo and However, when the Panamera debuted on the stands of the thing alone must be enough to keep it on the road, but there’s Turbo S models – ultimately more responsive and less 'white- 2009 Shanghai International Automobile Show, it wasn't hard to plenty of help provided by the intelligent drivetrain and chassis. knuckle'. You can still send it round the corners without dreaded see how radically dissimilar it was to our normal preconceptions You have an impeccable all-wheel-drive system, provided by the torque steer about the German manufacturing goliath. Porsche Traction Management and the Torque Vectoring Plus features, which are capable of making the finest of adjustments The long and short of it is, bank balance never comes into So, the GTS is supposed to be a middle-of-the-road version of to keep you out of the hospital at the same rate as stock market consideration with a car like this. If you need to ask the price, the four-door beast for this engine, between the entry level (haha!) servers. then you probably can't afford it. But, if this is well within your 4S, and the footballers' poster boy, Turbo, models. But there's no motoring budget this year, then I can announce to you that the denying - there's absolutely nothing mediocre about this big daddy. It’s quite a hell raiser when you try to plant your foot down, but in GTS is the best of the Panamera bunch. Although, being the a good way, I hasten to add; you will be greeted with a concerto latest, that's exactly what it should be - we're all supposed to learn Think of it as a pantomime horse on PCP. The front of the car is from the almighty 4.8-litre V8, and a rather pushy chair right in from experience, right…?

Porsche Panamera GTS Specifications: European Market:

Engine: 4,806cc V8 Price: £90,500 Performance: 430BHP Fuel Economy: 25.9MPG Weight: 1,995KG China Market: Miscellaneous: 4WD, 179mph (top speed), 4.5secs (0-62) Price: ¥2,172,000

For more information about the full Panamera range, or any Porsche vehicle, and a full list of specifications, prices and dealership locations, consult the website:

http://www.porsche.com/ http://www.porsche.com/china/models/panamera/ motors 23 Volksagen Passat

AlltrackI really don't wish to come across all doom and gloom, especially not given that this will be the first impression most of you will have had from me, and, as the saying goes, they do count. Anyway, I will proceed without fear, whilst trying my best to give as fair a critique as I can.

by Andy Reeves 've always been set against spending really get the idea of what a consumer would upwards of €25,000 for what is essentially want out of a multi-purpose just a family car. I think if you are going vehicle; the best functions to part with that kind of wonga, then you from a family car and the should definitely get something pokey under the bonnet rigidity and status of an Ito give you some movement in the trouser department SUV. The whole body every now and then. has been raised by 30mm, giving it a higher So, we come to the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack. We all ride height and greater know the name Passat, and the model's unbreakable clearance, and has also durance and faultless reliability. Yet, I'm sure you will been fitted with a reinforced nod in agreement, that not many have jumped on metal skid panel under the engine - a soapbox to praise its sleek sexiness or phenomenal handy for the road humps outside the schools… performance figures. It is exactly that - the option a real petrol head would 'pass at'. One of the most impressive things about this sturdy girl is her handling and ride. It feels like a lot of changes But, if you like the feeling of doing the right thing, or if have been made to the standard saloon, not to save the idea of responsibility and being sensible gets your money, but more to add a touch of class, and the pulse racing, then get down to the showroom now. end result is a car that feels more expensive and well Only one drawback - it costs the same price as a Land rounded. Despite its size, it is nimble round the bends Rover Evoque, which you would have to be rather and smooth enough to keep your toddlers asleep in eccentric to overlook. the back - it is both competent and reassuring, never feeling out of control, despite me trying my hardest to Unfortunately, the reason most people buy SUVs is to do exactly that. You can tell I’m definitely not a family whip the kids to and from school everyday, safe in the man, right? knowledge that you car is big enough to provide total safety in the event of a crash - this seems strange when So, I’m going to repeat myself now. The only bad you consider that if everybody drove such large cars, point is the price, but seeing as money does allegedly then that would defeat the object of such a premise. make the world go round, are you willing to stop our planet in its tracks to buy one of these? I will make it This, then, is a cross between the two - the lovechild of absolutely clear for you: for family purposes, yes; for a a normal run-around and a sturdy people carrier. It's cynical speed addict (not amphetamines) like myself, not too bad to the eye. I have certainly seen a lot worse no. The decision is entirely yours. But do bear in mind fly out of the factories in the past 12 months - I won't the reasonability in price of Volkswagens in China, mention any names, but you know who you are. compared with other foreign manufacturers. Thank The Alltrack was certainly designed by a team who the taxi companies!

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack Specifications:

Engine: 1,968cc 4cyl Diesel European Market: China Market: Transmission: DSG Twin-Clutch Performance: 168BHP Alltrack market launch July, 2012. Alltrack predicted (unconfirmed) release date October, 2012. Fuel Economy: 47.9MPG Weight: 1,725KG Price: £30,500 Price: ¥400,000 Miscellaneous: 4WD, 131mph (top speed), 8.9secs (0-62)

For more information about any Volkswagen vehicle, and a full list of specifications, prices and dealership locations, consult the website:

http://www.vw.com.cn/ yummy 26 Young Kee? No, Yung Kee! by Simon Cormack

When you are next budget, and you will still come out smiling either way. The in Central, if you restaurant is built around the foundation of its majestic signature haven't already passed roasted goose - so miss it at your peril. You just can’t get better, in through its prestigious my book. doors, then make a Another little gem to watch out for is the critically-acclaimed beeline for Wellington Deep-Fried Prawns with Mini Crab Roe - both innovative and Street's Yung Kee restaurant; a beautifully local part of the simple to the eye, and tied off nicely on the texture front with the tapestry that makes Hong Kong cuisine so sought after. crispiness of the bean curd wrap. Celebrating its seventieth year of business in 2012, it is an On the higher end of the monetary spectrum, a warming institution amongst locals, and is one of the first places they Abalone and Mushroom in Superior Soup is a great would be inclined to recommend to a friendly traveller. It offers way to enjoy the peculiar looking ocean delicacy. The a little of everything, from haute cuisine artistic creations, right abalone soaks up the richness of the mushrooms and down to fried noodles and roasted meats. adds a mild fish fragrance to the sauce. Wow! I could As you know, the Cantonese love to dine as a whole family have just had the sauce mixed with a bowl of steamed unit, meaning swarms of relatives packed round a huge table, rice and I would have been a happy camper. fighting over what to order, but everyone will be satisfied from this selection of goodies. Yung Kee Restaurant, 32-40 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Due to the menu's extensiveness, you can order as if you have Kong. tapped into Lee Ka Shing's expense account, or on a shoestring Tel: (+852) 2522 1624 http://www.yungkee.com.hk/ Young Kee? No, Yung Kee! Hey Gringo! Qué Pasa? by Simon Cormack & Simon Edward Smith

How does the saying go? Sugar and spice and all things nice? Well, we've got the sugar in the cocktails and the spice in the belly of the hearty grub on offer at Zapatas - Guangzhou's latest attempt at Mexican tucker, and a 'nice' one it is, at that.

A little surprising is the food menu being rather less comprehensive than the drinks, but I can see that this only goes to keep a strong consistency with quality of cooking - start as you mean to go on. Zapatas food dishes are absolutely packed full of value for money and authentic Mexican spice - the perfect accompaniment for a tangy signature Margarita.

So, on with the food parade: I was told that the kitchen is going to increase its size in a few weeks to accommodate a larger menu selection. From the 'concise' edition, I opened with the basic Corn Chips and Salsa, just because I fancied something quick and pokey to match my beer. The salsa was as fresh as the daisies and tingly on the tongue. Muy bueno!

To follow, we chose the Vegetable Quesadilla, with mushrooms, peppers and potato. I am a meat fan, so I felt a little aggrieved to have compromised for my 'plus one'. We also tried the Chicken Burrito and Tomato Mexican Rice. I have to say I loved the addition of the Jalapeños on the burrito was absolutely magical with the rich sour cream. On a value note, the portions are massive and prices as low as you could hope for. No hay problema!

The drinks are definitely a standout - some unique creations on the cocktail list, like the 'Dark 'n' Stormy' (rum, Goslings ginger beer & lime) and the 'Michelada' (beer, spice mix & lime) were quite enchanting, if somewhat unexpected. And, the imported beers are not what you will find in other places in the city. I tried the Belgian 'La Chouffre', which, at 8%abv, is nothing to snigger at. Not for the drivers. Arriba!

Considering that the restaurant features weekly theme nights a plenty, you will probably have no choice in the matter of avoiding an alcoholic tipple - ‘The Monday Mash Up' and 'Crazy Cactus Weekends' featuring all-you-can- drink promotions on Margaritas, beers and house pours, and the Wednesday midweek 'Ladies' Night' with free margaritas until midnight…

Zapatas also has live Mexican singers, chanting hits like ‘La Bamba' and medleys from the 'Gypsy Kings', covers over 1000 square-feet of the Party Pier and has an atmospheric glass ceiling which adds to the overall party vibe.

Zapatas - a sure bet for a good night, mi hermano!

Zapatas, Shop 21, Area A, Party Pier, Yue Jiang Xi Lu, Haizhu District, Guangzhou. Tel: (+86) 13725322651 http://www.zapatas-guangzhou.com/ yummy 28 Hao Mei Qiao Mei by Simon Cormack & Simon Edward Smith You don’t have to look very far, at present, to find somewhere that costs an arm and a leg to get a feed, especially not in Tianhe and, more specifically, Zhujiang New Town. And that high cost doesn’t always equate to dining satisfaction, and more often than not, can lead to the opposite.

One such place, which actually covers both with exquisite texture and juicy as hell; the Sautéed eventualities, is Qiao Mei Shi Jia in Liede Village. As Australian Scallops, cooked to perfection with a crispy you enter, you will be greeted by, I have to say, rather seal; and the Pan-Fried Goose Liver, as I am powerless unfriendly members of staff, who will write you out a to resist its charms… ticket, somewhat like a disgruntled cloakroom attendant in a busy nightclub. Still having space for a little extra, I had another browse through the food 'catalogue' and decided to order the The paradox, and, as it turns out, the saving grace of Prawn Balls in XO Sauce, which is served by person, the whole affair, is that the food is quite remarkable… not dish. All I can say is, that will be my first choice next time - plump succulent shrimp always get me going! You can choose from the largest array of sashimi and oysters you are going to find outside of Japan I ended a terrific meal with the Fried Mixed Pork and and Australia. If you cope with the burden on your Peppers, and a smile on my face. The best advice you conscience, you could be so wild as to order up some can take from this is that you really shouldn’t judge a turtle or carpaccio of horse. As you can see, the book by its cover - otherwise you would never set foot inventory is rather extensive, if not somewhat peculiar. inside Qiao Mei, which would be a taste bud tragedy of the highest order. Anyway, however daring as I consider myself to be, I only had the 'bottle' to go for some simple fried dishes. Qiao Mei Shi Jia, 2nd Floor, 10 Xing Guo Lu, Bear with me on the names of the creations, but I Zhu Jiang Xin Cheng, Tianhe District, Guangzhou. started with the Tri-Flavour Japanese Snow Beef, Tel: (+86) 20 3801 9088 South of the

Riverby Simon Cormack

A pleasant indoor environment, in addition to the beautiful Chilean Viña Casablanca Sauvignon Blanc, or the Shrimp The calorie count went out of the window when it came to terrace area, are the perfect way to enjoy this alfresco style and Papaya Salad, accompanied by a Fleur du Cap dessert: a simple carrot cake or the rather fabulous and regal- restaurant, tasty offerings and attentive service. There really Chardonnay from South Africa. I went for the first option, sounding Green Tea Ice Cream Pagoda, both coming with is an evident touch of experience and competence about the and have to say that the crispness and acidity of the Cefiro a superbly fruity Australian Orange Muscat & Flora, from whole Element Fresh experience. cut its way through the intense richness of the cheese. Nice Brown Brothers. Consider it a layered stack of home-made introduction… ice-cream and crispy wafers, which just has to be somewhat As for the current Wine Dinner set menu, available during cruelly knocked down in the process of eating. Rich and dinner service, this trend for faultlessness is carried over. It is For main course, you need to decide between the pairing of creamy, and perfect with the sweetness and blend of tropical an educated, yet simple, pairing of food and wine, which is the Firecracker Salmon and Ginger-Lemongrass Rice, which fruit tones of the Muscat. balanced in flavour and presentation. is paired with the Watershed Vineyards Select Australian Chardonnay; and the Seared Beef Fillet with Sea Scallops and All in all, whether the set menu sounds like it’s up your avenue, So lets get on with the facts: the three-course meal is Oyster Mushrooms, matched with the First Lady, Warwick or if you just fancy going for the standard a la carte selection, interchangeable and widely varied to suit every discernable South Africa Sauvignon Blanc. I’m currently on a calorie- Element Fresh has all bases covered - a perfect hit for a palate. count, so I opted for the salmon (I also like thing with a bit summer’s evening dining. of a kick – satisfied by the bird’s eye chillis), and have to say I To open, you have a choice of the Baked Crab and Cheese have never before enjoyed plain rice so much in all my life – (toasties, I want to call them), paired with a glass of Cefiro fragrant, light, yet flavoursome… cru 29

Scotchby Simon Edward Smith What the hell is it with the Asians and the Scotch - they simply can't get enough of it, can they? Even if they wontedly dose it with green tea, have it straight or imbibe it with any number of weird mixtures, it seems in the KTVs, clubs, bars and restaurants of Asia, whisky is adored by both men Mist and women alike. One of the high-ranking officials of of the Highlands region. The oldest and most sought-after a leading spirits company explains it of Macallan’s revolutionary Fine & very well, 'People are now beginning You can even buy serious bottles of the Rare Collection is now sold out. It is to understand the difference between stuff in duty-free - the World of Whiskies still possible to taste this totally unique blended whisky, single malt, the stores offer an amazing collection of over Scotch whisky at the Old Homestead difference in the years, and also single 350 whiskies from around the globe. Steakhouse in the Borgata Hotel Casino casks.' The existence of the in-airport stores are & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J. However, it testament to the fact that businessmen, sells for a nosebleed-inducing $3,300 per That newfound eye for detail coupled quite literally, just popping through, are dram (1/8th of an ounce/shot). I could with being part of a booming economy quite willing to splash out anything from create a separate list of better things to means aficionados have a willingness £100 - £30,000 on a bottle that takes do with $3,300. And I thought I was to spend their excess money on luxury their fancy. crazy when I bought two lowballs of items. Johnnie Walker Blue for $30 each… Japanese Suntory, now not considered to be a joke whisky, has become a serious Watch out for fakes, mind, and always player and a high priced item. Barrel check the label and the seal before aging is key to how a whisky tastes and buying. Counterfeiters have grown so Suntory uses three kinds, American sophisticated at producing labels that and Spanish oak as well as Japanese they can even reproduce imprinted mizunara oak. markings. The liquor itself, which is basically grain spirit, can be produced by Maybe Bill Murray had something to anybody with a still and a little chemistry do with it. His character in the 2003 background. movie 'Lost in Translation' goes to Japan to shoot a whisky commercial. Authorities across Asia have said that the majority of liquors of all kinds sold Suntory exports a number of products, to commemorate important dates or including Yamazaki single malt whiskies events, throughout the country, are and Hibiki, a blend. The origins of the counterfeit. Local media reported Japanese whisky industry have ties to that on March 15th this year, World Scotland. Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii Consumer Rights Day, the Wujin hired Masataka Taketsuru, who studied Auction Co. in Changzhou, Jiangsu distilling in Scotland. Taketsuru went on Province, offered consumers the to found Nikka, also a major producer. opportunity to check the authenticity of their baijiu by bringing in their bottles How much would you pay for one for inspection. Thirty percent of the But how, you might ponder, can a tiny of the twelve 62-year-old bottles of bottles brought in turned out to contain place like Scotland supply such a fervent Dalmore's priceless single malt whisky? counterfeit liquor. A year ago, on the demand? Tell me exactly just how many US$ 200,000? No? Well that is what a same day, the Guangzhou government bottles of Johnnie Walker Black Label Chinese businessman paid for such a seized and destroyed 100,000 bottles of were produced 12 years ago… bottle of Dalmore single malt. fake liquor.

By law, Scotch must be made from This rare purchase, which took place at A lot of spirits are shipped here in bulk malted grain, must be matured in oak Changi Airport, Singapore, a fortnight and bottled in China. It is very easy, casks for at least three years and must ago, is a testimony of the growing in that case, to alter the quality of the have an alcoholic strength of less than market for Scotch whisky in the Asian product before bottling it. Another 94.8% by volume. The age statement continent. common practice is to change the label on a bottle of Scotch is determined by of the bottle while it is being shipped the youngest stock used in its production. Originally listed at $38,000, a bottle from Europe. A standard whisky can The most expensive scotch whiskies in of 1926 Macallan Fine and Rare arrive in China transformed with a new the world were each produced in one of Collection was sold to a South Korean label boasting a 25-year-old vintage and the regions traditionally considered part businessman in 2005 for $75,000. be sold for 1,000 yuan. Serveby Simon Cormack it Ice SOUL-ed There is a distinct aroma of the Highlands wafting around a more familiar part of the city at present. You may incorrectly suppose that it is a new found passion for Haggis, caber tossing, bagpipes or kilts and sporrans, but ney me laddie, you'd be sadly mistaken. Maybe 'sadly' is an inappropriate word to describe this situation - a multi-coloured Scotch invasion. ‘Thankfully’ is a better term to compliment the addition of Guangzhou’s latest bar - The Soul…

ortified on a solid foundation of experience, expertise and expense, The Soul has devised a lounge concept behind the premise of Asia's number one drink - whisky - with the addition of a superb cocktail list, fresh tapas, tuna sashimi, Fassorted shellfish and imported oysters.Very snazzy!

As you peruse through the litany of fine bourbons, ryes, single and blended malts, you are going to be seeing double - not literally, as you would be there all day just trying to decide which tipple to tattle with. There are over 100 different strains on the board, and they all come with a special recommendation and story, told by the notably knowledgeable 'mixologists' who caressingly pour them.

The cocktail side of the operation goes even further into the realms of comprehensive inventories, with over 250 subtle, sassy, classic, revolutionary and down right delicious drinks to whet your palate and reinvigorate your spirit.

Now, don't prejudge this part of the plan. The guys behind the show say that one of their unique selling points is their ice. Yeah - the part that melts away. So, what, you may ponder, is so special about ice?

Well, first of all, it is 100% 'hand made' (not meaning ‘in the hand’, but instead referring to the ice being made in-house, not being brought in from outside), using only mineral water. However, this is not the part to get excited about. Each batch requires 5 days of freezing, at a monitored temperature of -18°C, in order to give it clarity, longevity and the ability to perfectly balance a cocktail. The ice is hand selected for every drink, drams included, and this modus operandi makes The Soul unique in Guangzhou.

So, the brains behind the operation seem to have refused to cut any corners on making this sultry school of Scotch, and, as it goes, there is an educational element present for those who want in. The Soul also provides courses for enthusiasts to learn how to appreciate the drinks on offer, and comprehend the magic behind whisky, wine, spirits and cocktails. Have a try and you may find yourself becoming the default bartender at your friend's wedding, or just building yourself a whisky shrine in your living room…

From an entertainment viewpoint, the owners will be inviting some of the country's most flamboyant bartenders to come for their 'Guest Bartender Events', which will be held monthly. The first maestro confirmed for arrival this month is Kin San, the owner of the Constellation Bar Group, with three locations in Shanghai and one in Ningbo. Kin San is a member of the International and Chinese Bar Associations, as well as being one of the most respected names in the business.

Covering two floors and conveniently located on Jian She Liu Ma Lu, The Soul offers you some welcome solace from drinking fake Johnnie Black in rowdy clubs, but, most importantly, without any snobbism or ostentatious second guessing - whether you sip or skull your poison, you’re most welcome…!

The Soul Whisky & Cocktail Bar, 12 Jian She Liu Ma Lu, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou. Tel: (+86) 135 8035 5593 Italian National Day @Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich The Westin Xiamen Opening Ceremony

ONE Lounge + Club Opening Night, feat. Audio Prostitute Childen's Day@Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen

Children's Day Kid activity @ The Westin Shenzhen Nanshan

British Day Celebrations@British School of Guangzhou Fete de la Musique @ Sofitel Dongguan Humen Oriental

Fete de la Musique 2012 - Florent Marchet China Tour 2012 out 'n' about 36

Veggieby Ray Hecht Medley Ask any vegetarian expat in China, it's not easy to go out for dinner. Most restaurants here seem to put meat in everything, with no appreciation for an herbivorous diet. As someone who previous lived in health-conscious and hippy-friendly California, constantly explaining 'bu yao rou' (I don't want meat) is frustrating indeed. casual dates, but not business dinners. They have a uckily, there is always the oasis of Bao'an Nanbuffet from 11:30 to 2:00, and dinner service runs Lu. The strip north of the iconic Di Wang from 6:00 to 9:00. The menu is very diverse, an Lbuilding is rich with Buddhist meat-free international array ranging from Korean Stone Pot eateries. Great for both devoted vegans and touristsdishes to Italian Spaghetti. You will also find many seeking that sort of spiritual Asian experience. RightCantonese dishes as well, such as Herb Chicken, in the heart of Luohu district, you will see monks spicy Pork Strips, and the usual fried rice and and Buddhist statue shops and plenty of tofu to eat.noodles, for those who want some staunch protein. Who says Shenzhen is 'all business and no culture'?The menu, unfortunately, doesn't have English, but there are pictures to point at. Another place of Firstly, there is Torango, in Da Xin Dasha across interest in Jun Ting Ming Yuan is the market next from Suibao Shopping Center. One of the classier ofdoor, selling varieties of frozen veggie meats for these restaurants, meals are priced at about 75-100cooking at home. RMB per head. The smell of incense is strong, and the décor is nice. Try the mock carp soup, vegetableAt the end of our tour is the awkwardly named dumplings, and their recommended Nongxiang tofuNatural Delicious & Healthy. While they do have dishes. But there is one problem, the menu has no an English menu, it is quite 'Chinglish' and comes English translations and doesn't even grace you withwith creative names, such as Grandma's Cereal pictures. If you can't read Chinese, bring someone Bread, and Alfalfa Hand Scrolls. The Tripe Soup fluent to translate, or just try randomly pointing atand an Vegetarian Pork are recommended. It's a little item and see what happens. Although at these prices,on the expensive side - a meal can come to 100 that kind of adventurousness might not be worth RMB per guest. It’s also very heavy on the Buddhist it. One would think they’d invest more in printing atmosphere, as the waitresses will even invite you to better menus… lectures given by local monks.

Down the street is Jun Ting Ming Yuan, a kind Any one of these restaurants is great for a unique of Buddhist-themed shopping mall. The second culinary experience, and will maybe even lead to floor houses Comfortable Life, which is this writer’sfurther interest in Buddhism and healthy food. See if favorite restaurant in the area. They have an Englishyou catch the bug…! menu, with pictures, and lots of dishes reasonably priced at 30-50. The Yunnan-style Sizzling Assorted Mushrooms is recommended, as well as the Torango, Da Xin Da Xia, Bao An Nan Lu, Luohu Dongbei-style素 Tofu With Sesame Oil. Some of the District, Shenzhen. best fake meats: Mushroom Kebab with Cumin, Tel: (+86) 755 2593 1238 and Fried Spare Ribs with Chopped Chili. Soups Comfortable Life, 2nd Floor, Jun Ting Ming Yuan, Bao An come even cheaper at around 10 per bowl; try the Nan Lu, Luohu, Shenzhen. pumpkin or spinach flavours, if you want my advice.Tel: (+86) 755 2580 8426 Although this place should come with a warning for strict vegans, as the Baked Mashed Potatoes areLa Vegan, 3rd Floor, Jun Ting Ming Yuan, Bao An Nan delicious, but contain real cheese - bad news for Lu, Luohu, Shenzhen. those laying off the dairy goods. Tel: (+86) 755 2590 8588

On the third floor of the mall we have La Vegan. Natural Delicious & Healthy, 1st Floor, 2 Hong Bao Lu, Luohu District, Shenzhen. Also on the cheaper side, expect to pay 50 for Tel: (+86) 755 2558 5035 each. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the informal style makes this place feel more like a local normal restaurant. Perhaps more appropriate for

InterContinental Shenzhen focus 38 destination HONGKONGSHENZHEN & WDC Shenzhen China Open Championships (Thursday 12th July – Sunday 15th July, 2012)

Put on your tap shoes, ballet pumps or cowboy boots, if you like, and come to the dancing extravaganza, the Shenzhen China Open Championships, organised by the World Dance Council. There are so many different age groups taking part in the four-day annual event, dancing under the Latin discipline, featuring contenders originating from over 30 different countries. So, if dancing is your thing, then the stage is ready for you to show us your turns, and if you don't know your foxtrot from your tango, then you can go and learn, can’t you…?

12th July Shenzhen Futian Sports Park, 30 Fu Qiang lu, Futian District, Shenzhen. Time: 09:00-16:00

13th-15th July Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival Shenzhen Bay Gymnasium, 3001 Bin Hai Avenue, (Monday 2nd July – Sunday 8th July, 2012) Nanshan District, Shenzhen. If you are like me, I much prefer watching the boats Time: 09:00-23:00 racing than the practice of eating the sticky rice pyramids or 'Zong Zi' ( 粽子 ). I also like drinking beer, Price: Anywhere from ¥150-¥500 standard / but that has got nothing to do with the Dragon Boat ¥40,000 VIP (ultimately too complicated to explain Festival. Or, maybe it has… – check the website) Come to watch the battle of the boats in Victoria HKTDC Hong Kong Fashion Week for Information: (+86) 755 8228 6031 (ext. 619) Harbour this month and also enjoy the added bonus Spring/Summer (Tuesday 3rd July – e-mail: [email protected] of the Beerfest in Tsim Sha Tsui. You can't fail to Friday 6th July, 2012) Website:http://www.shenzhenchinaopen.com/ spend a baking hot day in the Sun with a beaming This is a golden opportunity for traders to get some smile on your face with that kind of agenda. Happy last minute shelf fillers to help them capitalise on the holidays! mid year clothing market. The exhibition is separated into garment and accessories sections and includes all Races types of fashion, from bridal and evening dress, right Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Kowloon, Hong Kong. down to beachwear and bikinis. There will be plenty Time: 09:00-17:00 of international fashion designers inside, flaunting their latest creations and hoping to pick up a few lucrative Beerfest contracts in these four days of fashion finesse… UC Centenary Garden, East Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, Time: 12:00-21:30 1 Expo Drive, Wanchai, Hong Kong. Price: Free entry (trade only) Price: Free admission Information: (+852) 183 0668 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.discoverhongkong.com/ Website: http://www.hktdc.com/

Chorus Concert by Lyon Children’s Choir (Saturday 14th July, 2012) This collection of talented youngsters is quite a groundbreaking group in the choral scene, being the first choir to join the European Choral Association Europa Cantat. It was originally founded back in 1947 by Christian Wagner, and has been under the instruction, conduction and artistic direction of Anne-Marie Cabut since 1995. Trust me when I say, this group of angels is going to bring a tear to the eyes of many watching in awe…

Shenzhen Poly Theatre, Hou Hai Bin Lu, Nanshan District, Shenzhen. Time: 20:00 Price: ¥40, ¥60, ¥80, ¥100 Information: (+86) 755 8637 1698 Website: http://www.polytheatresz.com/

The Stone Roses: Live in Hong Kong 2012 (Tuesday 24th July, 2012)

Hong Kong Restaurant Week (Monday 9th July – Sunday 15th July, 2012) What a result. The Stone Roses in this neck of the woods. I can't think of many people I know who haven't Of all the cities in the world that you would really got their first album, and what a belter it was. Back in 2011, Ian Brown, the lead singer, declared to the world highlight for having an overwhelming wealth of that 'The Stone Roses are back', and with record breaking ticket sales and plenty of dates lined up, including cuisine, one of the first choices would have to be Hong the prelude to this gig in Singapore on July 12th, you can expect to hear all the hits from the album that has Kong. So, to have such a festival of food as this in the been hailed as one of the greatest British albums ever by music press giant NME. You might need to break a S.A.R., is just making me salivate like a hungry puppy. few arms to get a pair of tickets to this one – a guaranteed sellout. With over 50 restaurants participating in the festival, you can pick up some delicious grub all over the city AsiaWorld-Arena, Cheong Wing Road, Lantau Island, Hong Kong. for as little as HK$98 for three courses, both at lunch Time: 20:00 and dinnertime. Prepare to put on some weight… Price: HK$888 (standing) / HK$388, $688, $988 (seated) Information: (+852) 2629 6240 Information: (+852) 2598 5655 Website: http://www.lushington.com/artistpages/stone-roses.html e-mail: [email protected] Website & Online Booking: http://www.restaurantweek.hk/

Saltimbanco – Cirque Du Soleil (Thursday 12th July – Sunday 22nd July, 2012)

What can you say about the world’s most famous circus? It's just one of the things you simply must do in your lifetime, if given the opportunity: go to watch a Cirque Du Soleil performance. Saltimbanco is the longest running production from the company that is still in commission, and their most successful to date. The Italian meaning is something on the lines of 'jump to a bench', Lan Kwai Fong Beer & Music Fest (Saturday 14th July which is supposed to signify the & Sunday 15th July, 2012) acrobatics of the spectacle. You can leave all of the jumping What better time of year is there for throwing an outdoor party, around to them… fuelled with brews and tunes? Well, don't bother trying to think of one, because there isn't. The annual Lan Kwai Fong Beer Hall One, AsiaWorld-Arena, & Music Fest, one of the biggest street parties in Hong Kong, Cheong Wing Road, Lantau returns to the city, featuring over 50 booths selling fabulous food Island, Hong Kong. and a great selection of beers, in addition to three performance Time: 20:00 stages, hosting live music and dance shows, drinking and eating Price: HK$388, $488, $788 competitions and so much more. So don't miss this unforgettable Information & Booking: (+852) weekend! 2989 9239 Website: http://www. Lan Kwai Fong, Central, Hong Kong. cirquedusoleil.com/ Time: 13:00-01:00 (sat) / 13:00-22:00 (sun) Price: Free admission Information: (+852) 2523 8101 e-mail: [email protected] Website: http://lankwaifong.com/

InterContinental Shenzhen Focus Here we go with round 4 of the Intercontinental Destination Shenzhen Competition. One lucky reader can win a night's stay in the Intercontinental Shenzhen luxury resort, including breakfast for two. You can only win if you enter... You know what to do - just answer the following question:

How many InterContinental hotels are there in Guangdong?

All answers should be submitted before July 18th by e-mail to the following address: [email protected] destination 40 destinationXIAMEN BAR &CLUB The Key Club The Key Club is located beside the main building in Haiwan Park, and is Xiamen’s hippest nightspot.

Stepping onto the wooden staircase into the bar, the inside is well decorated with aesthetics of the Orient and West. The rococo style chairs are all placed separately, making you feel comfortable and providing you private room.

Walking along the court style staircase and arriving at its 2nd floor, you will notice that the place is well decorated, with a thick European-style carpet. The hollowed out structure separates each area, like a small island. You can play dice with your friends, or watch the 1st floor’s live show on comfortable sofas.

The Key Club's live show is especially popular in the Haiwan Park area. Its Filipino cover band can play various kinds of music like jazz, Latin, hip hop, and rock.

With the graceful light and energetic live show, The Key Club is perfect for relaxing or entertaining.

The Key Club, Haiwan Park, Xiamen, Fujian. Tel: (+86) 592 220 4000 Lomo Club LOMO Club is located on the 2nd floor of the Foreign Trade Building, hosting live bands and world-class DJs, giving fantastic performances all year round. The venue also features regular European modeling shows - one for the boys. With non-stop music, dancing and drinks flowing all night, coupled with steaming-hot dancers, it is like every part of your Soul Bar body is dancing to the music - twisting with no limits! Lomo Club, 2nd Floor, Foreign Trade Building, 5 Hu Bin Bei Lu, Siming District, The Soul Bar prides itself with the latest feel on the club scene, and is invested heavily in Xiamen, Fujian. club music - you have to be there to experience for yourself.

The heavy bass accelerates the rhythm of your heart, thanks to the excellent sound system and the well-coordinated laser lighting inside.

If you are sick of, or bored with, Xiamen's disco scene, Soul Bar is the latest happening place in town. You will always feel part of the night, part of the scene and part of the fun.

Soul Bar, 188 Hu Bin Dong Lu, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian. Tel: (+86) 592 507 5078

RESTAURANT Greg's Xiamen

After making his way around Bordeaux, Canton, Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hong Kong and Humen, French chef Greg is finally coming back to open a restaurant on his favourite island, Xiamen.

Colourful and sophisticated Fusion Cuisine, including melt-in-your- mouth Foie-Gras, Filet Mignon en Blanquette, freshly baked fruit tarts, homemade ice-cream and many, many more will delight your taste buds and leave you hungry for more of this innovative, yet authentic, French Provence gastronomic adventure.

All of this in heart of Xiamen, under classy shades of red and black, and served with a beautiful view of Yuandang Lake, Greg's is an all round belter.

Greg's Restaurant, 1C, 10 Hu Bin Lu, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian. Tel: (+86) 592 531 6600 http://www.gregs.com.cn/ Bamboo House destination 41 Bamboo House, the romantic western- style restaurant, is located in Zeng Cuo An village, a small fishing village with untouched ecological qualities. Its courtyard and private rooms can Crystal Spoon Thai Restaurant accommodate more than 100 guests at the same time, and the elegant Crystal Spoon Thai Food Restaurant is an authentic location, specially dining environment makes guests feel approved of by the Thai royal family. Opening its doors in Xiamen SM comfortable and hungry for some of the Lifestyle Center, the restaurant offers you an elegant, glamorous and delicacies on offer. The restaurant also romantic environment, gifting you a truly fairytale atmosphere, which is features numerous promotional nights, unrivalled within Xiamen. The food is just too good to describe. So you can where you can pick up such deals as 'all find out for yourself… you can eat and drink for ¥100'. Sounds too good to be true… Crystal Spoon Thai Restaurant, A500-A501, SM2 Lifestyle Centre, Topaz Building, 399 Jia he Lu, Xiamen, Fujian. Bamboo House, 378 Zeng Cuo An, Siming District, Xiamen, Fujian. Tel: (+86) 592 607 2808 Tel: (+86) 592 251 8366 Me and You 2 Summer is heating up and so are parties at the Me & You 2 Bar. The brand new Xiamen venue provides an abundance of ambience to soothe you during the day, whilst you enjoy the sea breeze and the spectacular view. At night, the place comes alive with 'give-away' promotions and impeccable service.

Its happy hours are as long as the smiles that the drinks are served with. It would be hard to find other place in town with a 6-hour-plus 'happy The House hour' - starting at around 2pm - with all beers half price. Established in the summer of 2002 in a beautiful 1940s Chateau with a southern Louisiana twist, the House Ladies night will be confirmed soon and will most likely be midweek. With half price drinks for the girls, and plenty of affordable Restaurant is filled with vibrant ceramic floors, high drinks for the geezers, you will be able to celebrate without breaking your bank balance. And the pizzas are truly 'magnifico' - ceilings, enchanting rooms and an exotic garden that especially the Capri Super, with shrimp and banana… leaves one jazzed with relaxation and comfort. The menu is pretty good, too, featuring ‘Californian Cuisine’ with an Me & You 2 Bar, 1 Hou Hi Ting, Haiwan Park, Xiamen, Fujian. Italian and Asian twist. A total bonanza for the senses… Tel: (+86) 592 685 3747 http://www.meandyou2.com/ The House, 10-1 Bai He Lu, Xiamen, Fujian. Tel: (+86) 592 204 4358 supremos 42 Soul-less City?

Guangzhou, the enigma that it is, has now incorporated the concept of the lounge bar into its nightlife. KTV's and loud nightclubs are meant for the younger demographic and certainly don’t work for early evening proceedings. Lounge bars are two-a-penny now and will continue to sprout up all around the city in the unforeseen future. supremos 43

by Matthew Friedman onsumers have much more wealth and status Sue: ' House music has been a part of my life since I was 12. I was listening to in this society than ever before, and are now what we now consider classic house while everyone else was singing New Kids looking for places that match their needs. on the Block. When I mix, you’ll hear tracks from the 80s and 90s, right up to Owners are creating venues with designer unreleased promos...' décor, serving the finest of cocktails and offering western-style cuisine. Daz: 'I would say I take my main influences from Detroit and Chicago - people COne thing that most proprieters seem to overlook, however, is the importance like Larry Heard and Theo Parrish. These people got me into the real roots of of creating the right atmosphere through music selection – iTunes is the house and techno, exposing me to the disco and 'boogie-woogie' sound. This resident DJ in most of these locales. exposure is ever present in my DJ sets; do not be surprised to hear Jeff Mills and Larry Levan in quick succession. For me, it’s all about quality…' A possible reason for this is that there is a real lack of DJs who cater to this type of environment or crowd. Most you find in this city seem to need to be the star It looks like there will be more of this great music in these environments for of the party, playing loud, electro-style house music meant for the early-hours people to chillout to. Le St. Tropez has a great vibe with soulful house music, nightclub crowd. Don't get me wrong; I love a bit of intercourse, but let's not courtesy of resident DJ Bennie Maclane. The Soul Fusion crew is at Peoples forget the foreplay. Café, 1920 Sky Garden, Rebel Rebel and One Lounge + Club, to name but a few. You can catch them playing right throughout the week - so there's no need Believe me, we all need these rock stars to encourage us to get on it - but who to compromise. can put me in the right mood to make me want to party? Who can keep me entertained when all I want to do is have a drink with friends on a Tuesday Sue: 'I love to DJ with Daz. We feed off of each other and it brings an element night? Lady Gaga remixes, David Guetta compilations and Akon giving his '50 of energy into the bar. Anyone who sees us DJ, knows this is about our passion Cents'-worth are not exactly what I’m looking for. and love for music…'

Thankfully, it seems I'm not alone… Daz: 'We have an ongoing contest to see who collects the most head-nodding customer,s and I'm winning 267 to 201. Beat that, Suad…!' Recently, I stumbled across a couple of guys in Peoples Café who seem to understand how to get me in the mood. DJs Sue (Canada) and Daz Fraser (UK) SFM offers lounge bars with DJ services and music consultancy (covering all from Soul Fusion Music, were playing deep, soulful house music – the exact genres of music…including house, funk, jazz, live performances and event sound that I want to hear when I walk in at 9:45pm. planning) – even providing pre-recorded music sets for lounges and bars. To see a DJ banging the walls, just like I wanted to bang my imaginary missus, was not the appetiser I was expecting to see. It prompted me to approach these So, why Soul Fusion? unlikely residents. The two of them were really happy when I came up to them and told them I loved what they were playing. Sue: “We are a fusion of all types of music, but the most important thing to us is that we are bringing soul to Guangzhou…' Sue: 'A lot of people don’t know this style of house music, so, for us, it's a big compliment when people tell us they love it…' The scene is changing. Owners are evolving their businesses and adopting a new ethos of catering for clientele. Customers are opening their minds and Daz: 'I buzz off seeing people nodding their heads to the beats that I’m making more demands from the places they visit. A lounge atmosphere should, playing and, I know, might be hearing for the first time, because, ultimately, it's by definition alone, be a place where you should feel relaxed. SFM creates underground music…' exactly that…

Soul Fusion Music came about because of the aforementioned disconnect So, my imaginary missus and I returned home from our Soul Fusion Music from matching the right music with the vibe and atmosphere needed in lounge experience very happy clappers. Needless to say, we returned to People's, thanks bars. Owners hire interior designers to layout their bars… Soul Fusion Music to a pair of dedicated vibe-providers… now provides these owners with an opportunity to hire music designers.

Sue: 'I can't believe some of the music choices in lounge bars here… I heard Soul Fusion Music is available for event planning/execution, as well as music a Celine Dion song playing in a chic lounge bar. Are you serious??? … by the consultancy for permanent venues. way, the bar was empty.' For more information about the company, please contact Suad Cejvanovic on Daz: 'I just can't get my head round the fact that people still go to these places. (+86) 136 1144 9350 or visit the website. Details below… It's a travesty that they haven't been exposed to the underbelly of house music…' http://www.soulfusionmusic.com/ http://www.sfmgz.com/ I heard a melee of tunes as diverse as “Relight My Fire” (the original, by Vertigo, I might add), right up to the sweet groove of Frankie Knuckles’ “I’ll Take You There”. supremos 44 Samuel byTsang Simon Cormack Two things that you never usually put together in the same sentence or premise are blue chip corporations and saving the planet. The whole ethos about big business is usually maximizing profits, cutting costs and mass production where at all possible. It is, therefore, extremely refreshing to see the hotel industry, which is particularly renowned for wasting resources, especially food and energy, trying to put something back into the community by preserving its naturalism.

One of the pioneers of this new found conscience for the environment in the hospitality sector is Samuel Tsang, the Area General Manager for InterContinental Hotels Group in Guangzhou and Huizhou. The Hong Kong-born Canadian citizen is a tough guy with strong morals; a staunch servant in the industry. He is taking the company on a ride to promote ecology and re-invent the image of the hotel as being an energy-saving, environmentally friendly type of business, using his flagship ecological property – Crowne Plaza Guangzhou Science City – as the vehicle.

We met with him last month to find out more about the project, the company and the man behind it all…

I see you have recently got involved with the conscious effort to clean When being in charge of numerous commercial properties that all up our planet through the Earth Hour campaign and the Crowne require distinct attention to detail, how do you manage to focus on Plaza Guangzhou Science City organic eco-garden. How important all of them as a collective? is this issue for you personally? The most important part of my job is to provide support, tools and I wasn’t a ‘green’ person until I arrived in China. I think after living systems to guide each part of the business in the right direction. My in Canada, I started taking the environment for granted. When I team always tries its best to keep consistency and improve initiative, came back over here, I missed living in an environmentally conscious and it is essential for me to delegate wisely and efficiently. We are place as Toronto, with clean air and natural beauty. In the last looking after 8 different properties at the moment, and have eight few decades, the situation has become worse in China, regarding more in the pipeline, so I must make sure that I appoint the right pollution from both industry and individuals. Although the hotel person for the right job in each section. Basic principles help us avoid is situated in an economically deprived area, it is the cleanest and complacency and streamline our focus. greenest area in Guangzhou. So, it seems fitting that the Crowne Plaza Guangzhou Science City is now regarded as the greenest hotel in the region, too. It’s design and special features, some of which What is the biggest project or responsibility you have ever taken on? have been added after the initial construction, are perfect for utilising Do you revel in the chance to test yourself ? the natural resources, as well as re-using materials wherever possible. A long time ago, I took the job as GM in a hotel in Xinjiang. I was the fifth guy to take the job in less than 12 months. Nobody had any What do you miss about living in Canada? faith in the position and many people told me to prepare for the worst. I had faith in myself and really got stuck into the task at hand. I miss having four seasons of weather. It may sound a little surprising, My first major hurdle was the ‘food street’ adjoining the premises. It but I even miss the cold days. I also miss the environment, as I was a large area that was making just 2,000 yuan per day. The owner already stated, as well as the safety. Let me explain; although I of the hotel gave me just 200,000 and told me to make it work. I had generally feel safer in China concerning violent crime, general public to take some drastic measures to overcome this; I decided to make safety and awareness is much greater back in Canada. Guangzhou a Shanghai style restaurant, after seeing many Shanghai families in is becoming more developed, but the public is not improving at the the area. It was called Peace, and was an immediate hit, much to the same rate. I’m quite afraid of the safety measures regarding food surprise of everyone else. It turned at least 30,000 yuan per day right hygiene in public places. Re-used oil and genetically-modified foods from the word go. This whole project helped me get where I am are two aspects of this that quite literally scare me. I think that if we today. continue to eat such products, our future generations will suffer from cancer and other life-threatening illnesses at young ages. Having started your hospitality career as a pot-washer in the kitchen’s of the Toronto Holiday Inn, how important is it for a leader to start Since the development of the Asian Games, many people now at the very grass roots of the industry? compare Guangzhou and Hong Kong. What are the main differences and similarities for you between the two massive international Primarily, I started working part-time at the age of sixteen to create metropolises? some independence for myself. I was a very cheerful guy; when I had finished one set of pans, I would make my way into the kitchen Hong Kong still has the edge over Guangzhou for shopping, luxury and bellow “Chef! Any more?”. I think most of the guys thought items and freedom. I think Guangzhou offers more in the way of I was crazy to be asking for more work, but this practice made me space and amenities for the rich. If I had to choose one and never stand out as someone who had a good work ethic and motivation. go back to the other, I would take Guangzhou. I think the overall I continued working there throughout my university days, quality of food, especially local cuisine, is better here, too. But, when joining different departments, where my responsibilities included you are looking for a good Western restaurant, it’s not so easy to find housekeeping, short-order cooking, shuttle bus driving and, in the in Guangzhou. Take last Father’s Day, for example. I have worked in end, the job that I really wanted at the time: front desk management. hotels all my life, and although I understand that the quality of food It was a long hard slog, but the effort I put in helped me cement my there is of the highest order, when I’m not working I prefer to eat impressive reputation and jump over many obstacles that stood in elsewhere. I travelled around Guangzhou looking for a nice steak, but my way. If you always try your best, you are bound to make it in the to no avail. If I were to do the same in Hong Kong, it wouldn’t take end… me long to find the perfect steak…

If you want to know more about the InterContinental Hotel Group and its effort to save our planet, as well as getting specific information about the Crowne Plaza Guangzhou Science City, please check out the website below…

http://www.ihg.com/

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Enjoy a cold seafood platter followed by a selection of grilled meat, vegetables, fish and seafood at our rooftop garden under a blissful Wine Buffet breeze. The package includes one glass of house wine, beer or soft drink. The Wine Buffet in the Oakroom Restaurant & Bar is here for you all every Friday during sunset ¥288+15% per person. time. The promotion includes free flow of 1 Offer available every Friday/Saturday/Sunday, from 18:00-21:00 sparkling wine and 2 kinds of white and red wine. Light snacks, from cold cuts to assorted cheese, The Ritz-Carlton Shenzhen, 116 Fuhua San Road, Futian District, are also provided. Shenzhen. ¥280+15% per person. Offer valid every Friday from 5pm to 7pm till 31 Aug 2012

Oakroom Restaurant & Bar, 16th Floor, Oakwood Premier Guangzhou, 28 Ti Yu Dong Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou. Reservations: (+86) 20 3883 3883 (Ext. 3 / 6704)

The Magic Duo

When guests purchase any five tickets for the dinner buffet at the White Tiger Restaurant at its rack rate, they will receive one complimentary ticket for the Chimelong International Circus.

(One day’s advanced booking is requested.)

Enjoy the best buffet and show in town! The new Magic Legend, presented by Chimelong International Circus, is the best stage show in Guangzhou, with a fantasy theme and a fantastic performance to match; and the buffet at the White Tiger Restaurant offers the best of worldwide gourmet cuisines. With the new Magic Duo promotion, you can enjoy both the gourmet feast and the world-class show.

Offer valid from 15th July – 31st August, 2012

Chimelong Hotel, Panyu Avenue, Panyu District, Guangzhou. Tel: (+86) 20 8478 6838 Refreshing Experience@The Heavenly Spa – facial scrub treatment

Enliven your facial skin with this exfoliating blend of green tea and jojoba nut granules; the cream is gently massaged into Premium Australian Wagyu Beef your skin to remove impurities and dead cells and reveal the silky soft skin beneath. Premium Australian Wagyu beef is known as the world’s tastiest, most tender and healthiest beef. From 1st July to 31st August, the Mezzo Italian Restaurant in Sheraton Shenzhen Futian Hotel brings you a Enjoy 20% off with any massage and facial (60-min). different treat of Australian Wagyu Beef. Starting from the most prime cuts and sizes of beef, going to side dishes, salads and sauces you will create your own dish to create the best experience. ¥398+15% per person. Offer valid until 31st August, 2012. Offer valid from 1st July to 31st August, 2012.

The Westin Guangzhou, 6 Lin He Zhong Road, Tianhe Sheraton Shenzhen Futian, Great China International Exchange Square, Fuhua Road, Futian District, District, Guangzhou. Shenzhen. Reservations: (+86) 20 2826 6767 (line open after 13:00 daily) Tel: (+86) 755 8383 8888 (ext. 6258)

Truly Thai

Seafood Extravaganza –Friday & Saturday Dinner Buffet Experience a variety of traditionally prepared Thai dishes, by Executive Sous Chef George of Feast. Savour local seafood, Fresh from the ocean comes this delectable seafood buffet! Make seasonal fruits and vegetables, cooked the true Thai way. It will Summer Spas your Friday and Saturday evenings even more special with ignite your taste buds! Alaskan king crab, Boston lobster, fresh oysters, baby squid, local From June to September 2012, the Spa at Futian Shangri-La, delicacies and all things seafood. Enjoy succulent sushi, sashimi Truly Thai dishes not to be missed: Shenzhen, offers two new spa treatments for summer. Guests and freshly sliced whole tuna! - Spicy glass noodles salad with shrimp and deep fried Lychee ball can opt for the 90-minute Oriental Body Glow or the 90-minute Cucumber Body Wrap to break away from the challenges of Wine Package: ¥388+15% - Deep-fried sea bass with sweet chilli sauce, green papaya and the hard daily grind and enjoy a moment to hydrate the body, Adults: ¥308+15% squash noodles following the harsh dehydrating effects of the summer sun. Children 3-11 years: ¥154+15% - Green curry chicken with organic farm eggplant Children under 3: Free Promotional period from 1st July – 31st July, 2012. ¥680 each. Café Veranda, 2nd Floor, China Hotel, A Marriott Hotel. Advance reservation is required. For further information or to Reservations: (+86) 20 8666 6888 (ext. 3248).Henghe Street, Sheraton Guangzhou Huadu Resort, Sky Villa, Northeast make a reservation, please call the Spa@Futian Shangri-La, Qingyuan, Guangdong. Shanqian Da Dao, Huadu District, Guangzhou. Shenzhen on (+86) 755 8828 4088 (ext. 6668). Tel: (+86) 20 763 888 8888 Tel: (+86) 20 3695 3888 bulletin

ROYAL TASTE – CAVIAR

Sample delicate and smooth caviar from Iran, Russia and China perfectly paired with Italian Spumante. The Mira Hong Kong 3for2Room Package Elba, located on the 99th floor, offers authentic Mediterranean dining and fine wines in an elegant, warm atmosphere Stretch out that holiday feeling with extra-long stay at The with panoramic views. World famous cuisine entices food Mira. Buy a 3 nights package at our stylish Mira Suite 70 and connoisseurs and wine lovers alike to this elegant rendition pay for 2 nights only! of Mediterranean food, beloved by many. Featuring an open • Inclusive of welcome amenities and mini bar kitchen and pizza oven, legendary favorites and modern • Minimum of 3 consecutive nights stay is required interpretations are found, paired with a large selection of wines • Maximum 2 free nights per stay will be offered by the glass, terroirs’ best and grappas. Terms and conditions apply

Offer valid throughout July, 2012. From HK$3,000 +10% service charge per room per night

Promotional Hours: Daily Lunch 11:30 – 14:30 & Dinner offer available: 1st Jul – 31st Aug 2012 18:00 – 22:00 The Mira Hong Kong, No. 118 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Elba, 99th Floor, St. Regis Shenzhen, 5016 Shannan Road Kowloon East, Luohu District, Shenzhen. Tel: (+852) 2315 5605 Tel: (+86) 755 8308 8888 (ext. 1852) Email: [email protected] /

Summer Fruit Dish Mr. Lodovico Antinori of Biserno, owner of one of the most famous wineries in Italy was the VIP guest for a cocktail The summer fruit dishes at Five Sen5es restaurant of The reception introducing his very own wines at WHISK on 28 Westin Shenzhen Nanshan are the best way to enjoy a healthy May at The Mira Hong Kong! life in this hot summer. The fresh fruits create a delicious freshness that will serve unadulterated pleasure to your taste (left to right: Mr. Martin Chung, Mr. Gianluigi Gerosa, Mr. buds – a feast for the senses... Lodovico Antinori)

Offer Valid throughout July, 2012.

The Westin Shenzhen Nanshan, 9028-2 Shennan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen. Reservations: (+86) 755 2698 8888

The Langham, Shenzhen offers a luxurious “blissful” accommodation experience...

Mr. John Lim (Hotel Manager) warmly welcomes Mr. Maurice Richard Hennessy (the eighth- generation family member of Hennessy founder) to stay at The St. Regis Shenzhen

Westin Hotels Debuts in the Tourism City of Xiamen Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT), recently announced the opening of The Westin Xiamen. Invested by Xiamen Fliport Huixin Hotel Co. Ltd of the Iport Group, The Westin Xiamen is the latest addition to Westin’s growing portfolio worldwide, and the brand’s second opening this year in China. Located in the central business district of Xiamen, The Westin Xiamen features 304 guestrooms and suites, world-class cuisine outlets, expansive meeting facilities, and Westin signature amenities, all designed to elicit personal Hilton Guangzhou Tianhe and Hilton Guangzhou Baiyun renewal. cooperate in fighting for London 2012 Olympic Games