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HARVEY LAW GROUP PRESENTS A FAST, AFFORDABLE AND ELEGANT RESIDENCY-BY-INVESTMENT PATHWAY Malta Permanent Residency Program (MPRP) is one of the simplest European residency programs around. It gives applicants and their dependents the right to live in Malta indefinitely, has no language requirement, no minimum education or professional experience requirement and, above all, it has no physical residency requirements. On top of gaining the right to live in Malta permanently, MPRP holders and their families can enjoy visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day rolling period, basically treating world-class European wineries and beaches as their extended backyard. The MPRP should not be confused with the Malta Citizenship for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program which was recently found by the European Court of Justice to be non-compliant with EU laws. The MPRP is well-established: it can be used as a pathway to citizenship after five years of residence in Malta and it attracts individuals from all over the world. An important feature, particularly appealing to nationals from the Asia region, is the ability to include up to four generations of one family in a single application. Applicants can choose between purchasing a proper ty worth at least EUR375,000 or renting an apartment for no less than EUR14,000 annually. This flexibility means applicants can either invest in a comfortable house to accommodate all family members, or rent a small flat to use during the holidays. Those choosing the rental option are required to make a government contribution of EUR60,000; the contribution amount is reduced to EUR30,000 for applicants choosing to purchase property. The proper ty holding period is at least five years. Although the Maltese Government also imposes an administration fee of EUR50,000 for the main applicant plus EUR10,000 per dependent, the MPRP remains one of the most affordable permanent residency-by-investment programs, estimated at around EUR212,000 for a family of four. The application process typically takes six to eight months from submission to approval. Some applicants are drawn to Malta for its relaxed environment, Mediterranean climate and year-round sailing and travelling opportunities, while others appreciate its world-class health and academic institutions, and safe and politically stable environment. What’s more, English is one of Malta’s two official languages, alongside Maltese. Malta is also, arguably, the most tax-efficient jurisdiction within the EU. Hong Kong residents benefit from a tax system that is hard to beat: it’s possible to adopt a non-domiciled tax status, meaning no tax of foreign incomes that remain outside Malta. If you are considering Malta as a possible destination of choice or even simply as a possible back-up plan, you may contact Harvey Law Group. With over 32 years of experience in investment residency and citizenship programmes all over the world, we would be happy to advise on the destinations and programmes most suited to your personal goals. Day 1 ⇢ Valletta -Base yourself in Valletta, Malta’s tiny (0.55km2), picture-postcard capital. Nestled on a peninsula surrounded by the deep blue Mediterranean, the walled fortress town dates back to the 1500s and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site -Marvel at the Baroque glory of St John’s Co-Cathedral – modest on the outside, all gold leaf and marble inside. Wander Republic Street to tour the Grandmaster’s Palace and admire the domes of Our Lady of Mount Carmel -End the day at Lower Barrakka Gardens watching the sun set over the seven forts that guard the Grand Harbour. Eat rabbit stew or seafood ravioli Day 2 ⇢ Gozo & Comino -Hop on a combo boat-and-quad bike tour to explore Gozo and Comino, two smaller islands in the Maltese archipelago – way easier than navigating ferries and much more fun -On Comino: head to the Blue Lagoon, a picturesque cove surrounded by rugged cliffs and rock formations. Its shallow, clear, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving -On Gozo: visit a ‘place of giants,’ Ggantija Archaeological Park. In this Neolithic temple complex, the gigantic megaliths (standing stones) are dated around 3200 BC, older than the Egyptian pyramids Day 3 ⇢ Mdina & Rabat -Drive 18 minutes inland from Valletta and you get to step back in time in golden-hued Mdina. Malta’s capital in medieval times, it’s now known as the ‘silent city’ thanks to its cloistered atmosphere and narrow, car-free streets -Put plenty of time aside to explore Mdina’s myriad museums, palaces and churches. Check out Palazzo Falson, a beautifully restored medieval palace, and stop for lunch at the relaxing rooftop café -Walk to Rabat, just outside Mdina’s walls, for a more bustling and everyday Maltese experience, plus Roman ruins, crypts and catacombs, most notably St Paul’s Day 4 ⇢ The Northwest coast -Make a beeline for Ghajn Tuf fieha: pack water, wear hiking shoes and follow the rugged cliffside trail to Gnejna, a glorious, sandy beach Day 5 ⇢ South Malta -Stop by the Blue Grotto early in the morning to see the sea caves lit by the morning sun. Stay on for a seafood lunch – grilled swordfish, mussels in garlic wine sauce, or octopus stew -Walk Marsaxlokk harbour, known for its Sunday fish market and vibrant display of luzzus (traditional fishing boats). The luzzus are brightly coloured and feature an ‘eye of Horus’ on the bow, believed to offer protection

HARVEY LAW GROUP PRESENTS A MEDITERRANEAN PATHWAY TO EU RESIDENCY As with the Portugal Golden Visa we explored in this magazine’s June issue, the Greece Golden Visa (or Greece Investment Residence Permit) remains one of Europe’s most accessible residency programmes for non-EU nationals. Even with the recent changes to the minimum investment thresholds, the Greece Golden Visa continues to offer multiple proper ty-based routes to residency, with these amendments helping to ensure the long-term sustainability and flexibility of the programme. High-demand areas such as Attica (including central Athens and Piraeus), Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini and any island with over 3,100 inhabitants now require a minimum real-estate investment of EUR800,000; whereas for all other locations across the country, including hidden gems and charming mainland towns, the entry point remains lower at EUR400,000. For those willing to think creatively, a EUR250,000 investment remains possible – either by converting commercial properties into residential use or restoring buildings of cultural or historical significance. The Greece Golden Visa allows applicants (and family members) to obtain a five-year renewable residence permit, with no minimum stay requirement and no language test, unless pursuing eventual citizenship. Greek residents are able to enjoy the same benefits as Greek citizens, notably access to free public healthcare and education, and they are granted the freedom to travel throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180- day period. Although the profiles of applicants are fairly varied, we would say that they usually have in common a love for Southern Europe and rich historic culture, and the desire to spend quality time in Greece, either during holidays or upon retirement. The realestate option enables investors to acquire a holiday home in which to enjoy annual family reunions. From its ancient cities to its hundreds of islands, Greece offers a lifestyle that is relaxed, safe and rooted in culture. It is quite simply a beautiful place to spend time. From an investment perspective, Greece offers af fordable entr y into the EU proper ty market, with low annual proper ty tax, no wealth tax and the potential for long-term capital appreciation. When we decided to introduce the Greece Golden Visa to Around DB readers, one of our colleagues asked us to share her personal experience: “I had the privilege of exploring Greece on my solo trips to Cor fu and Santorini, two vastly dif ferent islands, each with their own unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm and cultural depth. It is one thing to read about Greece; it is another to understand what it feels like to be there. I would encourage anyone to go visit.” If you are considering applying for the Greece Golden Visa, you may contact Harvey Law Group. With over 32 years of experience in investment residency and citizenship programmes all over the world, we would be happy to advise you. 5-DAY ITINERARY: ATHENS AND SANTORINI As an entrée to Greece, spend some time in the ancient, culture-rich capital and then make your way to Santorini, the ultimate Greek island getaway Day 1 ⇢ Athens -Head straight to the Acropolis in the morning (to beat the crowds). Visible from almost everywhere within the city, it ’s dubbed ‘the most impor tant ancient si te in the Western world’. Explore majestic ruins like the Par thenon, Temple of Athena Nike and Theatre of Dionysus -Visit the Acropolis Museum to see treasures from the Archaic to Roman periods, and check out the glass floor that reveals excavated ruins beneath -Come nightfall, hunker down at a taverna with a rooftop view over the city. Order the best dolmades, moussaka and baklava you’ve ever tasted! Day 2 ⇢ Athens -Spend a day exploring the city. Stroll through Monastiraki Flea Market for local craf ts, souvenirs… and people-watching. Catch the changing of the guard outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Walk around Plaka, the old town – think cobbled streets, boutique stores and gelato -Relax in the shade at the National Garden next to the Parliament building, where parrots fly freely, or make your way to the Hill of the Muses with its dense pine forest and glorious views across the Saronic Gulf -Finish the day with a plate of apochti, a traditional pork dish marinated in vinegar and spices, washed down with a glass of Assyr tiko Day 3 ⇢ Santorini -Take an ear ly 45-minute f light to Santorini, famous for its sundrenched hi l ls; whi tewashed, blue-roofed buildings and blacksand beaches. Check into a hotel in Fira, Oia or Pyrgos with views across the Aegean -Hike the Fira to Oia trail (just over 10km) stopping off to explore the hilltop villages of Imerovigli and Fi ros t e f ani . Br ing a pac ked lunch of fava dip, flatbread, grilled octopus and tomato fritters -Grab a front-row seat for the breathtaking Santorini sunset. Oia’s Byzantine castle ruins have by far the most beautiful view but the spot is best avoided over the summer due to overcrowding Day 4 ⇢ Santorini -Relax on Perissa Beach, one of the longest on the island: rent an iconic blue-and-white striped deckchair and treat yourself to a Negroni Day 5 ⇢ Santorini -Explore the ruins of Akrotiri, the real Atlantis on Santorini’s southernmost tip. The prehistoric, Bronze-age town is preserved in volcanic ash – like Pompeii, but Greek -Stop by a winery for a chilled tasting session or take a catamaran cr uise around the calder a to learn more about the island and it s legendar y volcanic eruption. Enjoy one last Greek meal as you look out across the Aegean

ACROSS 3. Hong Kong’s toughest West Dogs Teeth 6. Follows the path of the cable car Ngong Ping 360 Rescue Trail 7. 70km loop around Lantau Lantau Trail 10. National dress required Country of Origin 11. Known for its waterfalls Wong Lung Hang Valley 12. In memory of Nic Tinworth Trail 15. Once frequented by monks Fat Mun Ancient Trail 16. Booze at checkpoints Lantau Beer Dash 17. Features a set of Olympic pictograms Olympic Trail 18. Includes an ultra-distance 140km TransLantau DOWN 1. Two in one Lantau 2 Peaks 2. Uphill to find a vase Fa Ping Ten 4. From a reservoir to Ngong Ping Shek Pik Country Trail 5. Named for a big cat Lo Fu Tau Country Trail 8. Fast finish by the bay Action Sprint DB 9 . Tung Chung to Tai O Tung O Ancient Trail 13. Hong Kong’s longest country trail Chi Ma Wan 14. Race to beat the sun MoonTrekker

AIA Carnival Giveaway At this year’s AIA Carnival – its 10th edition – you can expect everything you have come to know and love, plus all-new rides (26 in total), classic game booths and lashings of live entertainment. Over a million carnival-goers are expected at the Central Harbourfront Event Space with fairground fun on offer for kids of all ages. Be sure to drop by the Big Top, where the death-defying World Circus troupe includes trapeze ar tists from Argentina, hoop divers from Ethiopia and motorbike riders from Colombia. The AIA Carnival is open through February 16: from 11am to 11pm on peak and standard days, and from 12pm to 10pm on off-peak days. To find out more and book tickets, visit www.aiacarnival.com .

HARVEY LAW GROUP PRESENTS A STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITY FOR GLOBAL INVESTORS IN 2025 The Portugal Golden Visa offers a strategic opportunity to non-EU nationals, regardless of their current place of residence. Whilst the Portugal Golden Visa is widely known, somehow the recent change in law, removing real estate investment as a qualifier for the programme, has led many to believe that Portugal Golden Visas are no longer available. Let us reassure you that this is not the case. The Portugal Golden Visa real estate option has been withdrawn, but other options remain such as placing EUR500,000 in an investment fund, or making a EUR250,000 donation through public entities or private foundations with public utility status towards the support of approved artistic production or national cultural heritage. To date, the investment fund option remains the most popular amongst investors. Many Hong Kong residents, regardless of nationality, have already taken active steps towards this. Some are planning ahead to give themselves retirement options, while others are looking at the education opportunities it will give to their children to study not only in Portugal but anywhere in the EU. English language postsecondary degrees flourish within the EU and are generally less expensive than courses charging overseas fees to international students. Since COVID, we have observed a surge in the desire to secure EU residency and citizenship. Now that the real estate option has been withdrawn, the investor profile has changed. Numerous investors see the investment fund option as an at tractive way to diversify their investment portfolios, limit currency risk exposure and tap into the European market. New investment funds are being set up on a weekly basis, and so it is crucial to work with experienced lawyers who can ensure the funds are compliant with the Por tugal Golden Visa rules. Through due diligence, lawyers can present a choice of investments to find one (or several) that matches their clients’ risk profiles. As of today, the Portugal Golden Visa is the only European Golden Visa programme that sets the investors (and their family members) on a path for permanent residency and citizenship after five years without requiring physical presence in the country for more than seven days per year (or 14 days in ever y two years). If you are considering Portugal as a possible destination of choice or even simply as a possible back-up plan, you may contact Harvey Law Group. With over 32 years of experience in investment residency and citizenship programmes all over the world, we would be happy to advise on the destinations and programmes most suited to your personal goals. 5-DAY ITINERARY FOR FOODIES For a taste of Portugal’s beautiful coastline, history-rich towns and mouth-watering cuisine, we can suggest the following five-day itinerary: Day 1 ⇢ Lisbon -Take in Lisbon’s pretty terracotta-tiled skyline from Miradouro da Senhor a do Monte viewpoint: glimpse domed cathedrals , cobbled alleyways and the mighty River Tagus -Make a beeline for Belém, Lisbon’s histor ic and laid-back old town. Near the vast Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, the popular Pastéis de Belém patisserie is famed for its Pastel de Nata (egg tarts) -Eat Petiscos (Por tuguese tapas), while listening to Fado, the bittersweet music that has been Lisbon’s soundtrack since the 19th Century Day 2 ⇢ Sintra -Take the 30-minute train ride from Lisbon to Sintra, a charming hillside retreat. Visit Palácio da Pena, with its fairy-tale turrets and domes, and the glorious gardens and grottoes at Quinta da Regaleira -Soak up the dazzling views from the Santuário da Peninha, almost 500m above sea level . Walk the breathtaking cliffs to gl impse Praia do Guincho, Cascais and Cabo da Roca lighthouse, the westernmost point of mainland Europe -Eat Bacalhau à Brás (salted cod, onion, garlic, potato fries, egg and coriander) or Cataplana de Marisco (seafood stew) Day 3 ⇢ Porto -Fly to Porto (one hour from Lisbon) to explore the picturesque birthplace of port wine. Cross Dom Luís I Bridge for stunning views of the Douro River and stop by a port wine cellar for tastings -Visit Livraria Lello: ‘the most beautiful bookstore in the world’. With its sweeping staircases and stunning art-nouveau decor, it’s said to have been the inspiration for JK Rowling’s Hogwarts -Eat Cozido à Por tuguesa (various meats and offal boiled with rice, beans, potatoes, carrot and cabbage). Weird but delicious! Day 4 ⇢ Douro Valley -Book a day tour from Porto to visit the Douro Valley’s UNESCO listed, terraced vineyards, and enjoy the wine tastings Day 5 ⇢ The Algrave -Fly to Faro (one hour from Porto) for a firsthand glimpse of the Algarve’s beautiful beaches -Hop on a boat to take in Praia da Marinha’s towering limes tone clif fs and the mysterious marine grottoes of Algar de Benagil -Eat Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams in a garlic, olive oil and wine sauce), Arroz de Marisco (seafood rice) and Sardinhas Assadas (grilled sardines)

Put on those sunglasses and jump on an early ferry to one of the outlying islands. Within minutes, you’ll find yourself well off the beaten track, writes Jason Pagliari As we DBers know, Hong Kong is much more than a harbour city with crowded streets: this glorious territory with its cloudy mountains and rocky islands also offers rural landscapes with breathtaking views. Much of the countryside is classified as Country Park and, although 7.3 million people are never far away, it is possible to find pockets of quiet that provide a total break from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you’re after a change of pace and a bit of a step back in time, exploring Hong Kong’s outlying islands is a good place to start. There are 263 sizable islands (over 500m2) in the territory, some uninhabited, many easily accessible by ferry. The outlying islands have been and to some extent continue to be Hong Kong’s hinterland, home to rustic fishing villages, the occasional temple or monastery and little else. The islands are car-free, so you’ll want to take to the trails on foot or by bicycle to find stunning coves, beaches, rock formations, stone carvings… and the occasional anomaly. At Tung Lung Chau, there’s the remains of a fort demolished in 1810, and at Tai A Chau, if you make it past the beach, you’ll come across the concrete foundations of a large-scale Vietnamese refugee camp, home to thousands from 1991 to 1996. Aside from familiar destinations like Lamma Island and Tai O, there are so many other islands to discover. There’s flat and rocky Tung Ping Chau, lying just 48 metres above sea level; Tap Mun, known for its rolling, grassy hills and sea urchin fried rice; and Kat O with its giant boulders and Hakka heritage. Read on for a guided tour of our top picks: Peng Chau and Cheung Chau. PENG CHAU A 10-minute ferry ride from Discovery Bay takes you to the sleepy island of Peng Chau, where you can enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere with some good hiking, ‘templing’ and dining options thrown in. Arriving at the pier, you notice the avenue of Banyan trees going inland and the old folks sitting out, chewing the fat. There’s a Wellcome on the left and an enormous modern sports hall on the right, with facilities that rival those found in Mui Wo. The sleepy main strip, Wing On Street, is lined with old-style stores supplying the usual assortment of Cantonese snacks, cakes, stationary and... bikes. A bustling industrial centre during the 70s, thanks to its lime kiln and match factory, Peng Chau is now best known for its temples. At Lung Mo (Dragon Mother) Temple, you can touch the ‘dragon bed’ for good luck and at Seven Sisters Temple, pray for fertility. The Tin Hau Temple, meanwhile, houses a Qing dynasty stone tablet that attests to a deal the then government made with the villagers, not to commandeer their fishing vessels in the ongoing war on piracy. Despite quaint, rustic first impressions, Peng Chau is rapidly becoming one of the city’s trendiest art hubs as evidenced by the vibrant graffiti art you come across on and around Wing On Street, and the growing number of art galleries and art cafés squeezed in alongside the mom-and-pop stores. In fact, one of the most popular attractions on the island is the Fook Yuen Leather Factory. Established in the 1930s, the factory has been revitalized and is now a Grade III historic building with a highly Instagrammable ar t space. You can also join ceramic workshops that offer a glimpse into the once thriving ceramic handicraft industry in Peng Chau. A good plan for the day is to walk clockwise round the island. The coastal trail takes you past some nice beaches and the landmark Fisherman Rock, a precariously balanced boulder over the sea. The trail then cuts inland through jungle before emerging at a horseshoe bay, facing east, where there are barbeque facilities on the beach. On a clear day West Kowloon looks surprisingly close, reminding you of the island’s proximity to modern civilisation. Next up, you’ll want to climb Finger Hill, the highest point of the island at 95 metres, with its panoramic views and giant boulders. The ascent is well signposted, and you can stop for a cold drink at the little shop halfway up with its rickety table and chairs and radio blaring non-stop. There’s a trail down the other side of Finger Hill to a pagoda on the island’s east side, if you feel you haven’t walked far enough. Before heading home, you’ll likely want to rest up and have a bite to eat. Some of the best restaurants (all with a sensational sea view) are found on Wing On Street, where you can enjoy everything from Cantonese or Thai to all-day breakfast. Local specialities include fried prawns and a deliciously gloopy ‘Orange Chicken’. CHEUNG CHAU Hop on the ferry at Central Pier 5 (or the Inter-Island Ferry from Mui Wo) and spend a day exploring lively and historic Cheung Chau. Best known for its bun festival held in May, the island has plenty to offer – glorious beaches, wild rock formations, a pirate’s cave and, of course, incredible seafood restaurants. If it’s seafood you’re after, you’ll find the most popular restaurants on the island’s west coast, on Praya Street – the waterfront road, right by the main ferry pier. As you sit down to your catch of the day, fishing trawlers and all sorts of smaller craft stretch as far as the eye can see, enhancing the fabulous sea views. Most of Cheung Chau’s development is centred on a spit of land sandwiched between two hills to the north and south, and to make the most of your visit, you’ll want to venture beyond the main village, on foot. Northern Cheung Chau offers up some glorious hiking country but if you’re looking for a leisurely ramble and excellent views, head south by way of the east-coast beaches, which offer up full facilities and several windsurfing and kayaking centres. To make your way to the south-side, turn left off the ferry, then right at Kwok Man Road and walk inland to the main beach, Tung Wan. Head towards and past the high-rise Warwick Hotel, with its excellent dim-sum lunch menu, to the next beach, Kwun Yam Wan, perhaps the island’s finest. From here, you can make your way along Cheung Chau’s Mini Great Wall – you’ll see signposts leading uphill through the jungle and past the Kwun Yam Temple. This reasonably short stonework trail hugs the south-east coast passing various boulder formations, all with bizarrely fitting names, such as Human Head Rock, Elephant Rock, Rodent Rock and even Zombie Rock. At the lookout at the end of the Mini Great Wall, you can either head back to the main ferry pier (turn left at the temple) and take a kai-to to the south coast or continue on foot, up a steep set of stairs. Assuming you choose the latter, follow the coastal paths and turn left onto Don Bosco Road, towards remote and rugged Nam Tam Wan, with its large temple overlooking Wailingding Island. There are regular informational maps to guide you. From here, it’s a bit of a walk up and over Peak Road, past the meteorological station and crematorium, to the signposted trail that drops down into truly off-the-beaten-track Pak Tso Bay. This trail follows along the coast and up through a stunning boulder cavern towards gigantic Reclining Rock. Next stop is Cheung Po Tsai Cave, named after the famous pirate who is said to have hoarded his loot here. Armed with a power ful torch (a phone flashlight won’t do it), you can squeeze vertically down through a narrow opening and pass through the cave to another entrance. From here, it’s a short walk over the hill to the Tin Hau Temple on Sai Wan, where you can take a kai-to back to the ferry pier... and order up that well-deserved plate of seafood.

The start of a new school year can be a stressful, anxious time for both children and parents. Andrew Spires has some smart hacks and simple solutions Having gone through the rigmarole of tucking my two kids into bed and thinking I’d got them down, my youngest (7) snuck out into the living room. “Daddy, I’m scared.” She said. “Oh, Monkey, there’s nothing to be scared of,” I said. “There are no monsters in your room.” “I know, Dad. It’s not monsters I’m scared of,” she replied. “It’s school.” Yup. Whether you’re 7, 17 or 47, that Sunday evening, back-to-school feeling never leaves you. I tried in vain to explain that fear is simply the absence of experience, that once she’d got the first week back under her belt, she’d be settled in and making new friends, but until she can experience it, she can’t picture it. Luckily, there are other ways to put the OO back into school. A child without a routine is a nightmare. Kids thrive on the familiar. Unfortunately, the summer holidays are an entropic cooking pot, with late nights and irregular eating times which whilst fun for six weeks, are not conducive to a focused and eager learner. Here’s my advice: two weeks before the holidays end, start by gently reintroducing the school routine back into daily life. Shift bedtime back in 15-minute increments. This means less of a shock to the system and will avoid those “I could go to bed at 10pm yesterday” conversations. It’s generally recommended that kids aged between 7 and 10 should be tucked in by 8pm and asleep by 9pm latest. This routine not only helps the child fall asleep more easily but also helps in the child’s brain formation. Getting kids to do any meaningful work over the summer is a fruitless task, so don’t bother. You could all do with a break. Make sure they complete all their homework in the first week of the holidays, whilst they still have their academic cap on, and you’ll save a lot of back-to-school arguments. Around the last week of the holidays, to slip them back into work mode before school star ts, organise a few ‘educational’ trips to galleries and museums, sneaking knowledge into them surreptitiously whilst get ting their brains used to critical thinking in a fun way. Everything has a home. Everything. If you have an object that floats about, find it a home. If you can’t, throw it away. It’s a brilliant method for time saving, but also for ensuring you’re not running around looking for things come the end of the holidays. At the beginning of the summer, wash, iron and put away ‘in their place’ uniforms, homework, bags and all other school accoutrements. Make sure you’ve got everything ready, as if the next day were a school day. It’s a game-changer and saves so much time and stress the night before the first day back. Shopping is always high on the agenda the week before school starts and it can really lighten the mood. My kids love anything new. I bought a floor fan and it was like Christmas had come early. Getting new school kit is a great way to get kids excited about heading back to the alma mater. Physical shopping is much more effective than TaoBao. Think erasers in the shape of pandas, quirky pencil toppers and pencil cases with hidden compartments. Sham Sui Po is perfect for this, and whilst there, you can explore the old Roman-style reservoir up on Woh Chai Hill for an educational and fun addition to the shopping trip. Heading back to school after the holidays is going to be much easier for kids if you’ve at least tried to avoid the summer slide. Reading helps with this and whilst some kids enjoy reading more than others, the key is to find something they want to read. Any reading material is good, from What Car magazine to Stink and the Zombies. You could also try titles like Rosie Revere – Engineer by Andrea Beaty, which addresses anxiety through excellent and poignant rhyme. Consider summer camps not only to get the kids out of your hair, but to give them social interaction and to engage their brains. Tr y to find a camp (many run through August 22) that engages both physical and mental activities, such as Estelle Davies’ Living Ocean Education or Kim Doherty’s iGym. If finances won't allow for a camp, especially for two kids, set them a project to do. Give them a research topic and a strict set of guidelines to complete it. We were off to France this summer, so the kids had to discover 10 key facts about the country, then look up the best areas to travel to, things to do in those areas and possible places to stay. That not only engaged their brains and analytic skills for half a day, but also got them excited about the trip as they felt they had ownership. The summer holidays give the gift of time. Use this to give the kids more independence. They can practice cooking their own lunch and dinners, ironing (under supervision of course) or popping to the supermarket to get things on a given preprepared shopping list. It’s important to celebrate when the kids get things right. My daughter, 7, came back from Fusion with not only a complete list of items, but a few extras I’d forgotten to add as she’d taken it upon herself to check the fridge and the cupboards for bits and pieces we might be running out of. That work of independent thinking won her maximum respect points and a choice of treat from the treat box. She can also take these new skills back to school which will give her more confidence to learn independently. When it comes down to it, what you want is to get your kids excited about school. Talk with them about all the fun they’ll have with new kids in their class and different form tutors. If you’re children are older, approaching GCSE or A Levels, make time for a couple of big chats: encourage them to align their passions outside of school with the subject options offered. My dad used to work in the chemistry labs at Cambridge University and was adamant that I was to study chemistry at A Level, even though for the previous five years, I’d shown zero interest or ability. So for two more years, I studied chemistry and, well, you could spell xylophone with my results. It was a waste of time and I was miserable. I wanted to study photography and as luck would have it, I’m now paid to take photographs. Life finds a way. What’s the take-home here? Work with their strengths and you’ll have happy and confident kiddos. We’re all on a big spinning ball of rock hurtling through space. Appreciate this and don’t sweat the small stuff. Children are emotional sponges. They don’t listen to what you say so much as mimic what you do and feel. If you’re often moaning about stress in the office or projecting your own Sunday night, back-to-school blues, that’s going to manifest in your kids. Astronaut Chris Hadfield said life is like flying a plane – keep your attitude (the pitch of the nose of the plane) up and your plane will soar, and it's the same for people. Keep your head up, stay positive, and the world and school become a brighter place.

Registration for the 2025-26 rugby and netball seasons is open now and training kicks off in late August. Find out why you want to join the DB Pirates. Mervyn Black reports You would be hard-pressed to have spent any significant amount of time in Discovery Bay and not heard of the DB Pirates. The club’s eye-catching green and black strip is carried by adults and children alike through the plaza, on buses and, of course, on the rugby pitch and netball court. Fresh off a big 2024-25 season that saw plenty of success and with the backing of sponsors Cathay Cargo, Figos, Three Sheets and Coopers, the DB Pirates are building steam ahead of the upcoming 2025-26 season. A club built with rugby as its foundation, the DB Pirates cater to rugby players from four years of age through to seniors, while their netball section runs from seven-year-olds up to ladies. After building nicely since the Covid-19 pandemic, the DB Pirates are looking to forge ahead with both their existing sports and new offerings. “We’ve come through Covid stronger than most of the other clubs in Hong Kong and that is a fantastic achievement,” opens new DB Pirates chairman Chris Pearce. “There was a lot of expat drain on the south side of Hong Kong and there are clubs there that were heavily impacted by it. We’ve managed to maintain about 75-80 percent of our membership, whereas other clubs were down by over 50. “This club survived Covid better than many and now we want to build on that and take it forward because we are in a great position. We are reaching out to new members, getting out into the community, getting new sponsors and looking at ways we can do more community engagement. We are putting the Pirates out there as the premier Lantau club.” Chris, a 30-year Hong Kong resident, is well-placed to tackle his new role: he’s been with the DB Pirates for the past nine years, and all his kids have played netball and rugby for the club. “I’ve been basically running a financial firm over that period so I’ve got a good idea about business strategy and sponsorship and I want to bring that to the Pirates,” he adds. Part of growing the DB Pirates is rebuilding the club’s dragon boating and hockey sections, with director of rugby Simon Tasker confirming new volunteers are very much welcome. “We did have hockey a couple of years ago, we had a very strong hockey team actually, and we had a very strong dragon boating section, but because a lot of that was operated through volunteers, when Covid hit we weren’t able to retain that knowledge,” Simon opens. “We will be rebuilding this season with a view that next season we will be able to offer more sports to the community. We want to provide the opportunity for people to get fit and healthy, and enjoy a good variety of sports.” The DB Pirates’ rugby section runs from mini rugby into youth rugby and onto men’s seniors, while there is also a women’s touch rugby team for local domestic helpers, with club trainings taking place at the Discovery College and DB North Plaza pitches most weekends. “As of last year, we were close to 500 members across the three main rugby sections. We’ve got a very large junior section which is probably going to be about 75-80 percent of that number. That ranges all the way from under-5s to under-12s boys and girls,” says Simon. “Beyond 12, we then split into youth, which is divided into under-13 boys, under-14 girls, under-16 boys and under-16 girls.” Where it gets interesting for young DB Pirates is that the club has a strong relationship with Kowloon Rugby Club. “As part of our agreement with the union, because we don’t have a Premiership side, we need to be able to find a player pathway for our older kids. Anyone that graduates the under-16 programme, be it male or female, gets absorbed by Kowloon,” Simon explains. “The idea is to foster those players in a Premiership setting, so they can then either progress into Premiership or Premiership A. From a bigger perspective, it allows Hong Kong China Rugby, the governing body for rugby in Hong Kong, to have an idea of who is coming through the system outside of the traditional big six clubs. “We are very much a provider for the football clubs, the Valleys and the Kowloons – we don’t have a Premiership men’s side,” Simon adds. That means that while the DB Pirates seniors play at a level suitable for varying ages, abilities and fitness levels, those up-and-coming talents with the desire to strive for higher honours – like ex-DB Pirates and current Hong Kong players Alessandro Nardoni and Liam Doher ty – have a pathway to do so. While the DB Pirates’ membership base has historically been a very international group made up largely of DBers, Simon is pleased to confirm a recent uptick in local players and members from across Lantau. “We’re getting recognised outside of DB, which is nice. This year, for the first time in a long time, we’ve been able to recruit and attract more local talent. We’re a product of our environment, which is traditionally expat, so we don’t really have a lot of local guys join us,” he says. “But this year we’ve picked up half a dozen or so Chinese lads from the local schools in Pui O. It’s been really good for us. The good work that everyone is doing is resonating beyond our borders, which is nice.” Registration for the 2025-26 rugby and netball seasons is open now and training kicks off in late August, with Simon – who has been involved with the club for 14 years and himself played rugby for Hong Kong – having a simple message for anyone considering taking the plunge. “If you’re new to Hong Kong or new to DB, this is a great way to meet people. We centralise everything around the community, so you’re interacting with people on a daily basis and you’re eating in the local restaurants,” he says. “It’s a really nice way to get yourself plugged in. “We have been so successful because we are so community-based. The rugby is based around family – mums and dads getting involved. A lot of the dads who play for us are or were coaches. It’s very sociable, there are no barriers. It’s seriously social rugby and we’re your one-stop shop for rugby in Lantau.” Simon wants to see growth across the club, and he is equally focused on older players. The DB Pirates seniors – who play in the Hong Kong China Rugby Men’s Championship League 3, the fifth tier of senior rugby – are in the middle of a run of sustained success, with the team coming off a big win last season. “Four years ago, we were Prem A grand champs finalists. Then Covid hit and there were all the austerity measures but now we’ve been promoted two consecutive seasons,” says Simon. “We won three actually – there was a mini Covid league we won, the next year we won the league which meant we went up a division but we lost the grand champs. This year we didn’t win the league, which was good for us because the winner of the league earns automatic promotion, but we won the grand champs. “In terms of the quality of rugby, it’s pretty decent,” Simon concludes. “Obviously we’re all amateurs, so we are not going to be going anywhere beyond where we are at the moment, but it’s certainly a lot fun.”

Heading into Year 13 at DBIS, Hong Kong, China national team cricketer Daniel Mapp is ready to deliver. Elizabeth Kerr reports PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew Spires & courtesy of Jonathan Mapp I don’t really speak too much. I think my PE teacher, Mr Lugg, recommended I do this interview,” opens Discovery Bay International School student Daniel Mapp on Google Chat. “No offence. I just don’t like being the centre of attention. On tour I don’t like doing interviews; it’s not my type of thing. But I’m open to it, I guess.” For the record, on this mid-week afternoon, 17-year-old Daniel comes across as reserved rather than disinterested – that is until the conversation turns to sport, cricket in particular, when his reticence vanishes entirely. On the cusp of starting his final year at DBIS and at 6’5”, Daniel would fit right in as a shooting guard on any American college basketball team or as a wide receiver in gridiron. But the Cape Town native has eyes only for the world’s most enigmatic game. For the uninitiated, cricket can resemble baseball for its batsmen, fielders and wicket keepers – “kind of like catchers,” Daniel explains patiently. Bowlers are like pitchers, anyone can play up to three positions, and unlike baseball there are multiple formats: T20, T10, limited overs, five-day Test matches… Does cricket have tries? “No, that’s rugby,” Daniel corrects gently before breaking down the myth of those week-long games. “Test matches are played by the best teams in the world. I’ve only ever played 50 overs (an innings), which is usually nine hours.” Cricket is far from a mystery across Asia-Pacific – including Hong Kong and dominant India – the UK and the Caribbean. Its popularity in South Africa made it part of Daniel’s childhood. His dad played when he was young and Daniel started flirting with the game when the family lived in Dubai before relocating to Hong Kong 12 years ago. “I would go down to my older brother’s training, aged 4. I wasn’t old enough to play with them yet, so I was just on the sidelines watching, messing about. One day the coach handed me a bat and a ball and I’ve been playing ever since. Growing up in DB, I played rugby, football and cricket but eventually it got to a point where I had to focus on one. I just liked cricket the most. I think there’s a lot of versatility to it; you can’t really get bored because there are so many aspects of the game.” The chances of getting bored are also narrowed if you’re playing at Daniel’s level: he’s an integral part of the Hong Kong Cricket Club junior and senior squads, which play in multi-team local leagues. And he plays for the Hong Kong, China national team Men’s U19 and Men’s A – he recently took six wickets against Tanzania for the latter. “Now I play club cricket at the Hong Kong Cricket Club over on Hong Kong Island, but before that I played for the local cricket club here, DB Smashers. They were a big part in my development as a junior cricketer.” These days, Daniel feels equally supported by DBIS: he references a recent class visit to the Hong Kong Sports Institute – a real eye-opener for students, particularly those considering a career in sports. Bigger picture: DBIS has been flexible enough to allow Daniel the freedom, sometimes two weeks, to compete in regional tournaments. “I’m expected to finish all my work on time, even though I’m playing nine-hour days,” he says with a grin. “But I’ve had a lot of support from my school and the online classroom with additional catch-up time provided and distance learning.” Daniel’s returning the favour too. As a sports ambassador at DBIS, he’s a role model for younger students and a leader on lower school sports days. No surprise, he plays cricket for DBIS, and he’s also on the school’s U20 football and basketball teams. “We did pretty well; our football and basketball teams placed third this year. We haven’t won silverware in a while so it was pretty good.” The tours and tournaments that take Daniel off campus have seen him play in Oman, the UAE, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand and, most recently, Nepal… “Nepal was probably one of the best places I’ve toured. Not a lot of people know cricket is so huge there. Even their junior teams get treated like kings. When we played their U19 national team, there were 300 or 400 people watching.” Though Hong Kong, China fell to Nepal and Afghanistan in Kathmandu, the team beat Oman by 10 wickets – and Daniel was awarded man of the match in two of the three matches. That boded well for a busy summer. In July, Daniel headed to the UK to case universities and train with Kent County Cricket Club in Canterbury. The training opportunity was organised by former Hong Kong, China Men’s A coaches Simon Willis and Simon Cook. This month, before term starts, he’s back training with the Hong Kong, China Men’s U19 to tour Malaysia under coach Mark Farmer. The UK trip was made with an eye to the future. “England has a good cricket culture, so I want to go play for a university or a county,” Daniel says, before admitting, “If I had it my way, I wouldn’t go to university; I’d just play cricket there. But that’s not an option for me. My mum would prefer I go through uni.” Daniel’s first choice is Loughborough University, which is renowned for its sports programme and a favourite among cricketing students eager to go pro. At this point the physicality of the sport comes up. Daniel has played or watched American football, rugby, you name it. But he makes a case for cricket as just as white-knuckled as any sport. “It’s quite dangerous. At the top level the speed the ball is coming at you from the bowler gives you a split second to react,” he says, sparking to the subject. “You have to trust that you’ve trained enough so that when you’re batting, you see the ball and you react like you have a motor programme for it. It’s definitely quick. We get broken fingers, broken arms. That’s why we have all the padding. I mean, baseball doesn’t have as much padding.” But baseball is slow and wimpy. You don’t need padding, right? Daniel dodges a comment on the veracity of that claim. “Contrary to your opinion, I think it’s quite interesting,” he says with a grin. “It’s just it’s kind of one thing. There are more variables to cricket, but I do have a bias.” Daniel’s grateful he had a few classes lined up over the summer designed to give him a head start on what he expects will be a challenging academic year. Heading into Year 13, his final A-level exams in Economics, Psychology and Physical Education are looming, and there’s that all-important Hong Kong, China national team tour of Malaysia coming up. But the question has to be asked: what does Daniel do when he has a free weekend? “I just do what every teenager does. Sleep and play video games, hang out with my mates, play other spor ts, golf mostly,” he says. His video game of choice? “NBA 2K.” (Not Cricket 24.)

The Pearl of the Adriatic DUBROVNIK’S POSTCARD PRETTY OLD TOWN is UNESCO-listed and packed with beautifully preserved baroque buildings, museums and galleries. Start your trip by walking the medieval city walls – a 2km circuit. From high up on the battlements, you can soak up stunning views of the old town’s terracotta rooftops and the glimmering Adriatic beyond. MUSEUM-HOPPING IS A MUST! There’s the Cultural History Museum, housed in a 14th century palace, where you can see how the aristocracy used to live; the Red History Museum, which focuses on life in Croatia under Tito (1945- 1991); and the Maritime Museum, which reveals Dubrovnik’s extraordinary wealth and naval power in the 16th century. CROATIAN CUISINE COMBINES MEDITERRANEAN and Central European flavours – think olive oil, fresh herbs and spices. Must-try dishes include peka (slow-cooked meat and vegetables), štrukli (cheese pastry) crni rižot (black risotto with cuttlefish ink) and skorupa, a cake layered with cream and almonds. Dubrovnik is famous for its fresh-caught fish and seafood. FILMING LOCATIONS FOR A GAME OF THRONES crop up everywhere, and you can sign up for a dedicated guided tour. Dubrovnik’s castles, palaces and formidable fortifications play a big part in the show, so fans will experience déjà vu at numerous sites, including Fort Lawrence, Gradac Park and the Jesuit Staircase. AT THE GATES OF THE FRANCISCAN MONASTERY in the heart of the old town, the Franciscan Pharmacy is one of Europe’s first, founded in 1317. Those in the know head here not for the brand-name medications but for jars of Mala Braca 1317 AD, a natural hydrating face cream, based on rose, lavender and rosemary, that’s made by the monks according to a secret, centuries-old recipe. JUMP ON A FERRY TO BEACH ŠUNJ at Lopud, a lively destination with soft sand underfoot rather than the usual (for Croatia) pebbles. Low-key bars and restaurants line the beach, where you can settle in for some superb seafood. The shallow, crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling or, if you’re after an adrenaline rush, you can hop on a jet-ski. MIGHTY MOUNT SRĐ provides amazing views of Dubrovnik, and you can ride the cable car to the top. There are plenty of bars and restaurants with viewing decks: the perfect sspot to watch the sun dip behind the ocean at the end of day. If you’re feeling fit, you can hike back down via a winding 2-kilometre path that’s lined by the 14 Stations of the Cross.

Time to swim, tan and get social A DENSELY POPULATED URBAN HUB , Hong Kong is in fact awash with fantastic beaches. Within Lantau, Pui O Beach is our top pick: a wild and windswept water-sports’ hub, with intriguing brown-black sand and incredible sunsets. There’s a government-run campsite with barbecue pits, plus the option to eat and overnight at Treasure Island Beach Club. KNOWN FOR ITS POWERFUL SURF BREAKS and rugged cliffs, Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay) is quite a hike to get to – 45 minutes from Sai Wan Pavilion in Sai Kung town. The lure? You’re rewarded by four interconnected, often deserted beaches – Sai Wan, Ham Tin Wan, Tai Wan and Tung Wan – which stretch across 3 kilometres of coast. THE CRESCENT-SHAPED SHORELINE and palm-fringed promenade of Repulse Bay Beach makes it one of the most popular in Hong Kong. It’s a great spot for people watching, packed at weekends, with every amenity on tap. Find a beachfront mall, high-end restaurants and bars, changing rooms, raft rental and even a beach volleyball court. ENCAPSULATING COASTAL LIVING , Stanley Main Beach is as vibrant and bustling as the village that homes it. (To avoid the crowds, walk 15 minutes to St Stephen’s, a pretty little cove just east of the village). Once you’ve topped up your tan, explore Stanley’s markets and eateries, and take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade. DUBBED THE MALDIVES OF HONG KONG , Long Ke Beach exceeds expectations, delivering fine white sand and bright turquoise waters. You can expect a real Robinson Crusoe experience as it’s well off the beaten track; facilities are limited so bring your own food and water supplies. Hike there from Sai Kung East Dam, or hire a speedboat at Sai Kung Pier. DETERMINEDLY LOW KEY , Shek O Beach has everything it takes, particularly for families, with a tempting expanse of sand, calm waters and great facilities including changing rooms and barbecue pits. The laid-back vibe continues into the village, where there are plenty of sleepy cafés serving up quality eats. CALL US BIASED BUT this guide would not be complete without a shoutout to DB’s own Tai Pak Beach. The city’s first man-made beach, backed by rolling hills, it’s our go-to for leisurely swims and long walks, sun worshipping and beach games. Family-friendly amenities include a kids’ playground at the far end by Lantau Boat Club.