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- Vacation Time: Weird Beaches!
7 of the most beautiful, in no particular order FAMOUS FOR ITS JET-BLACK volcanic sand, dramatic basalt cliffs and roaring Atlantic waves, Reynisfjara Beach on Iceland’s southern coast is straight out of a gothic fairytale. The towering, geometric sea stacks that rise from the ocean look man-made but have in fact been sculpted over millions of years by relentless wave erosion. LOCATED IN FORT BRAGG, Northern California, Glass Beach is covered in millions of colourful sea-glass fragments. From 1949 to 1967, the beach served as an official dumpsite, where rubbish was discarded into the ocean. Following cleanup operations, decades of wave erosion has tumbled the remaining (glass) refuse into the smooth, glittering expanse seen today. A BIZARRE INLAND BEACH, Playa De Gulpiyuri in Asturias, on Spain’s nor thern coast, is located in the middle of a meadow. Although it looks like a small lagoon, seawater reaches the beach through underground tunnels connected to the Cantabrian Sea. Known for its golden sand and crystal-clear water, it sits more than 100 metres from the actual coastline. THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS PINK SAND beaches are found in Indonesia. The most iconic stretch, known locally as Pantai Merah, sits on Komodo Island and is celebrated for its vibrant, pastel-pink shoreline contrasting against crystal-clear turquoise water. Tiny red coral fragments broken apart by the waves and mixed with the sand, make the beach glow pink. SHELL BEACH AT SHARK BAY, Western Australia, covers over 110 kilometres and contains no sand at all. It is composed of billions of tiny coquina clam shells packed so tightly together that they resemble snow or crushed coral. Because the bay’s high-saline water supports few predators, the shells have accumulated over time, creating deposits several metres deep in places. SARAKINIKO ON THE GREEK ISLAND OF MILOS is one of the world’s most dramatic coastal geological formations, widely nicknamed Moon Beach. Instead of sand, palm trees and conventional cliffs, Sarakiniko is a brilliant, bone-white expanse of undulating, chalky stone that plunges directly into the electric-blue Aegean Sea. KOEKOHE BEACH ON NEW ZEALAND’S SOUTH ISLAND homes the Moeraki Boulders – a collection of massive spherical stones resembling dinosaur eggs. They are, in fact, cement-hard calcite concretions that formed within the mudstone cliffs 60 million years ago. When the land uplifted and the soft mudstone eroded, these durable spheres were exposed and deposited directly onto the beach.
- Success Stories: Nurturing Tomorrow's Leaders!
Four Discovery College students reveal how the school’s Academic Scholarship Programme has empowered them to pursue their passions, achieve their goals and prepare for bright futures PHOTOS COURTESY OF Discovery College Discovery College (DC) continues to set a gold standard for international education in Hong Kong. While the school is widely celebrated for its state-of-the-art campus and holistic approach to the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, it is the individuals within its walls who truly define its spirit. Cent ral to this thriving educational ecosystem is the Discovery College Academic Scholarship Programme – an initiative designed to recognise exceptional student talent, foster intellectual curiosity and provide tailor-made mentorship. Let’s hear from four remarkable, homegrown student scholars – Tasha Batchelor, Lucia Gimenez-Reyna Castillo, Alexander Nolens - Liu and Mahirr Uppaal – who reveal how the programme is shaping their journeys and helping them turn big ambitions into reality. THE POWER OF PERSONALISED MENTORSHIP Balancing high-level academics with extracurricular passions can be a daunting feat for any teenager. For Alexander, a dedicated athlete who represents DC in four sports – football, badminton, volleyball and swimming – the scholarship programme has been an essential anchor. “Being involved in sports, extracurriculars and academics may sometimes seem impossible, hence, my mentor helps me manage my schedule, establish priorities and ensure a high academic performance,” Alexander says. This sentiment is echoed across the cohort. Mahirr, who is drawn to the real-world applications of Economics, credits the scholarship’s structural guidance for giving students the confidence to step outside their comfort zones. “The guiding presence of mentors to help steer us in the right direction and resolve any queries is a huge help," Mahirr notes, adding that this support offers “increased flexibility and reassurance to pursue other streams of interest”. For Design enthusiast Tasha, the programme ensures that students never have to navigate their challenges alone: she greatly values the structure provided by regular progress meetings with her advisor. “The scholarship programme has supported my journey at DC through of fer ing any suppor t in subjects where I may want it. The regular meeting with my mentor, where we set goals and my progress toward these goals helps me to stay on track.” COLLABORATION AND RISK-TAKING When asked what makes DC unique, the scholars don’t just point to the facilities; they point to the culture. For Lucia, a student passionate about Physics, DC is a rare sanctuary where academic risk-taking is celebrated. “Something that makes DC special to me is its community,” Lucia says. “I would say that the school community and environment is a place in which you don’t have to be afraid to be yourself, explore, or take risks, because there will always be people there to support you along the way.” The scholarship programme actively channels this supportive environment into collaborative, real - world experiences. Lucia recently partnered with a group of fellow scholars to take part in a STEM competition, an opportunity she notes helped the team “grow and develop passions for engineering and enterprise”. Mahirr, a golfer with a low single-figure handicap, who was part of the same STEM competition agrees with Lucia, describing DC as a “very strongly tight-knit community that encourages students to engage with one another both inside and outside of school”. Tasha adds that DC’s vibrant atmosphere makes it “a great place to make new friends and have new experiences”. BIG DREAMS FOR THE FUTURE As these scholars look toward life after graduation, their diverse aspirations reflect the rich, multidisciplinary foundation fostered by DC. Alexander plans to take his analytical skills to a top university to pursue higher education in law or a law-related field. Mahirr aims to stay local to Hong Kong's world- class institutions, targeting HKU and HKUST to study Business or Economics. Lucia is looking to merge her love for logical and creative thinking by studying biomedical engineering, where she will learn about the application of physics and mathematical concepts to the healthcare industry. Tasha, meanwhile, is keeping her options open: she plans to keep up with the subjects she enjoys, while taking some time out to travel and play rugby. Whether it is Tasha bringing her 3D models to li fe on Fusion 360, Alexander competing in local HKSSF and ISSFHK sports tournaments, Mahir r interpreting government policies through economic theory, or Lucia applying her passion for engineering to real-world challenges, these scholars are demonstrating how talent, when paired with the right support and opportunities, can flourish into meaningful achievement. The Discovery College Academic Scholarship Programme is doing exactly what it set out to do. It isn't just funding education; it is actively fuelling the passions, resilience and future successes of Hong Kong's brightest young minds. You can find out more at Discovery College’s next Open Day on August 29, or by visiting discovery.esf.edu.hk/en/admissions/ scholarship_programme
- Recipe Of The Month: Summer Pops!
Watermelon Lollies Serves 7 Halve the watermelon and scoop the flesh of one half into a bowl. Pick out the black seeds. Purée the flesh using a hand blender. Fill ice-lolly moulds three-quarters full with the purée, push the sticks in, and freeze for at least three hours, or overnight. Peel the kiwis and cut the green flesh away from the white core. Purée the flesh. Add a 4-5mm layer to the top of each watermelon lolly and refreeze for one hour. Add some green food colouring to the rest of the purée to darken it to the same colour as the watermelon rind. Pour a very thin layer over each lolly and freeze until you want to eat them.
- Out & About: What You've Been Up To! (August Issue)
ENJOYING THE NEXT CHAPTER This year’s Island Dance showcase, The Next Chapter, was held at the Y-Theatre, Chai Wan on June 13 and 14, playing to two near-full houses! The performance included dances in Freestyle, Jazz, Ballet, Hip-Hop and Acro-dance, all inspired by the magic of books and storytelling. Among the troupe were 140 DB-based ‘Island Dancers’ who train at DBRC and Club Siena. [PHOTOS BY Richard Gordon Photography.] TEKKERZ AWARDS CEREMONY AT BAYSIDE DENTAL Community-based football club Tekkerz celebrated the end of a fantastic season on June 13 by hosting their 2025-26 Awards Ceremony in partnership with Bayside Dental. Over 400 players and parents were treated to a barbecue on the terrace of Bayside Dental’s DB North clinic. [PHOTO COURTESY of Bayside Dental.] AT SMOKEY JOE’S ON THE FOURTH OF JULY Smokey Joe’s in DB North was the place to celebrate on July 4, with Chef Joey Daze serving up a sizzling US Independence Day feast. Diners were treated to all-American favourites like Texas Twinkies and chilli-cheese hot dogs. [PHOTOS COURTESY of Andrew J.C. Spires & Steen Skovfoged.] AT A SMOOTHIE-MAKING WORKSHOP Hong Kong food-tech startup Food with Benefits led a Zero Food-Waste Smoothie-Making Workshop on July 18 at DB Office Centre. Participants learnt how surplus produce can be upcycled into healthy and delicious smoothies. [PHOTOS BY Andrew J.C. Spires.]
- Smiles In Focus: Dr Safar At Bayside Dental
You may have already spotted a new face at Bayside Dental. Originally from Ukraine, Dr Safar Baisov joined the practice 10 months ago after spending a decade working in Beijing, bringing with him extensive experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, dental surgery and complex root canal treatment. For Dr Safar, Hong Kong offered the perfect next step. “It’s more international – and it was a climate choice; I like the warmer weather,” he opens. “Beijing was a great experience, challenging; I learnt a lot there and met some amazing people. But Hong Kong is somewhere to settle long-term, somewhere to plan retirement.” Although he currently lives in Central, Dr Safar already sees DB as his future home. “DB is a great place to get to know people – you bump into them on the ferry, at the supermarket. In Central, I don’t know my neighbours. In DB, you really live with the community. I will move here after a few years, when I get married and have a family.” PRECISION, PASSION AND PATIENT CARE Dr Safar splits his time between Bayside Dental’s DB North and South clinics and its sister practice Smith & Jain Dentists in Central. He has recently installed a surgical microscope for root canal treatments at the DB North clinic, allowing more precise treatment for complex cases in DB. “I like to do work with my hands and dentistry is all about this,” he explains. “It’s important to be sensitive to detail and I like to do work that’s very, very detailed. I’m a bit of a perfectionist and in dentistry that’s actually not a disadvantage, it’s a big advantage.” Helping patients regain their smile is what motivates Dr Safar most. “Through dentistry, you can create positive change in someone’s life – making them feel more comfortable and more confident. And you do this with your skills, with your hands.” That patient-centred philosophy was shaped by an early mentor. “The most important lesson I learned was to listen. People need to feel heard. They’re not always looking for perfection or miracles; they want someone who understands what matters to them.” When it comes to preventing dental problems, however, Dr Safar’s advice couldn’t be simpler. “The biggest issue I see is tooth decay, and it’s a simple thing to prevent if you follow basic hygiene rules,” he says. “Most cavities form in between the teeth not on the surface, which is why you need to floss as well as brush.” Whether providing a routine check-up or advanced dental work, Dr Safar wants every patient to leave feeling the same way. “I hope they feel they’ve been listened to, understood and cared for.” SOUNDBITES Q: What’s the one piece of dental advice everyone should follow? A: Floss every day. Q: How often should we visit the dentist? A: Adults should have a hygiene clean every six months and see a dentist at least once a year. Children should see a dentist every six months. Q: Manual or electric toothbrush? A: Whichever you prefer, both are good for the job. Electric brushes are especially helpful for the elderly, as are water flossers. Q: Hard or soft brush? A: Soft. I use an Ebisu soft toothbrush. Q: How do parents encourage good dental habits in young children? A: Parents need to educate their kids about dental hygiene every day. It’s important to assist children under seven years with brushing, particularly night brushing. Q: Is teeth whitening safe? A: Yes. When used correctly and under the advice of your dentist. Q: Favourite toothpaste? A: Any fluoride toothpaste that isn’t abrasive. The brand isn’t important but avoid whitening toothpastes. Q: Mint or salt? A: Flavour is up to you. Salt is good for gum disease but I don’t recommend using it daily. Q: Best celebrity smile? A: Julia Roberts.
- At The Movies: Julia Roberts Quiz!
How much do you know about Julia Roberts and her films? BY Elena M. Zepeda 01. Julia Roberts was born in which US state? A. Texas B. Georgia C. Washington 02. Who plays Roberts’ mentee in After the Hunt? A. Ayo Edebiri B. Chloë Sevigny C. Florence Pugh 03. In which movie does Roberts star alongside Meryl Streep? A. Closer B. Ticket to Paradise C. August: Osage County 04. In which thriller does Roberts play a lawyer who investigates a series of murders? A. The Client B. The Pelican Brief C. Duplicity 05. Who is Roberts married to? A. Lyle Lovett B. Daniel Moder C. George Clooney 06. Roberts’ first leading role was in which movie? A. Satisfaction B. Mystic Pizza C. Baja Oklahoma 07. In which film does Roberts play the mother of a boy born with a craniofacial difference? A. Stepmom B. Ben is Back C. Wonder 08. In Hook, which iconic character does Roberts play? A. Tinker Bell B. Wendy Darling C. Tiger Lily 09. What Academy Award nomination did Roberts receive for Steel Magnolias? A. Best Supporting Actress B. Best Actress C. Best Screenplay 10. In Pretty Woman, which song plays during the shopping montage? A. Material Girl by Madonna B. Oh, Pretty Woman by Roy Orbison C. zUptown Girl by Billy Joel 11. Roberts won the Academy Award for Best Actress for which movie? A. Charlie Wilson’s War B. Erin Brockovich C. Secret in Their Eyes 12. Who stars opposite Roberts in Notting Hill? A. Richard Gere B. Pierce Brosnan C. Hugh Grant 13. Roberts plays Tess Ocean in which movies? A. Ocean’s Eleven and Ocean’s Twelve B. Ocean’s Twelve and Ocean’s Thirteen C. Ocean’s Eleven and Ocean’s Thirteen 14. In Runaway Bride, how many times does Roberts’ character leave a man at the altar? A. Three B. Four C. Five 15. In which movie does Roberts play an evil queen? A. Maleficent B. Mirror, Mirror C. Snow White and the Huntsman 16. In which animated movie does Roberts voice a character? A. Hotel Transylvania B. Stuart Little C. Charlotte’s Web 17. In Sleeping with the Enemy, why does Roberts’ character change her identity? A. She wants to start a new career B. She is fleeing her abusive husband C. She is seeking revenge 18. Who plays Roberts’ character’s best friend in My Best Friend’s Wedding? A. Rupert Everett B. Dermot Mulroney C. Ewan McGregor 19. Whose bestselling memoir is Eat Pray Love based on? A. Tina Fey B. Cheryl Strayed C. Elizabeth Gilbert 20. In which movie does Roberts play a medical student? A. Flatliners B. Blood Red C. Mona Lisa Smile Answers B A C B B B C A A B B C A B B C b C C A
- New Rules for Dining with Dogs in Hong Kong
What Every Dog Owner Needs to Know Great news for our dog-loving community! The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has officially permitted dogs in selected restaurants across Hong Kong under clear guidelines. Yes – this now includes fully air-conditioned indoor venues! Lantau Island has 14 licensed restaurants, including 4 venues in Discovery Bay, 4 in Tung Chung and 6 in South Lantau. Rules for Pet Owners Dogs may be held, placed in a carrier/ stroller or seated on a dining chair if the restaurant allows it, but they must remain on a leash (no longer than 1.5m) held by an adult or secured to a fixture. Dogs are not allowed on dining tables or in food preparation areas. Dog food must not be placed on dining tables. Dogs cannot eat from the restaurant’s regular reusable tableware. They may only use single-use or their own bowls. Known dangerous dogs and fighting breeds are strictly prohibited. Your dog must be fully vaccinated and hold a valid AFCD Electronic Dog Licence. Owners are fully responsible for cleaning up any excrement and keeping their dogs under control Basic Etiquette for a Pleasant Experience Clean up immediately if your dog has an accident. Dispose of waste properly and inform staff so they can disinfect the area. Respect other diners. If someone nearby feels uncomfortable, keep your dog close to you and, if possible, move to another table. If your dog barks persistently, becomes over-excited, or shows signs of stress, calmly take them outside until they settle. Fold away dog strollers when not in use to avoid obstructing pathways. Tip: Always call the restaurant in advance to confirm their specific house rules. Licensed restaurants on Lantau Island Discovery Bay McDonald's Restaurant PHO BAY PIZZAEXPRESS THE COFFEE ACADEMICS Tung Chung OUZO BAR AND RESTAURANT QUE VENCHI Yue South Lantau PAUSE CAFE (Mui O) NAK Kafé (Tai O) Moon Kee Lin Heung Restaurant (Tai O) GOOD VIEW RESTAURANT (Pui O) Espace Elastique (Tai O) Tung Shing Lau Check the official FEHD list of permitted restaurants. Read more on the official FEHD Guidelines on Good Practices for Dog-Friendly Restaurants
- Greece Golden Visa
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
- Portugal Golden Visa
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)
- Safe Haven For High-Net-Worth Individuals
Harvey Law Group provides an overview of Citizenship By Investment programs in the Caribbean: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Kitts and Nevis This is the first of a series of articles giving you insights into the opportunities to gain Citizenship By Investment (CBI) in the Caribbean. Stay tuned and follow us in the coming months as we dive into the at tractive of fer s that Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Kitts and Nevis present. Options for CBI in the Caribbean are highly regarded as well-regulated pathways for second citizenship through approved investments, including real estate. Today, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Kitts and Nevis all offer popular, government-approved routes that allow high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) to participate in Caribbean real-estate investments. Each program is structured differently and targets distinct investor priorities. Let’s take a look. Antigua and Barbuda. Established 2013. Advantages: sibling inclusion and digital asset eligibility. Best for: extended families and crypto holders. Dominica. Established 1993. Advantages: accessible entry with strong eco-development potential. Best for: value-conscious investors. Grenada. Established 2013. Advantages: eligibility for the US E-2 visa. Best for: entrepreneurs targeting the US market. St. Kitts and Nevis. Established 1984. Advantages: oldest program with a strong international reputation. Best for: reputation-focused investors. CARIBBEAN CITIZENSHIP BENEFITS All four Caribbean CBI programs offer a common set of advantages for HNWIs, including visa-free travel to more than 140 destinations and favourable tax environments. Understanding these shared benefits helps place program-specific differences into context, allowing investors to consider which Caribbean real-estate investments best serve their individual needs. All of the programs allow investors to obtain citizenship in the Caribbean through approved real-estate projects under clearly defined regulations. The differences lie in family inclusion rules, unique mobility benefits such as US market access, and overall program cost considerations. For investors comparing Caribbean real-estate investments side by side, these factors of ten shape which pathway best aligns with personal, business and wealth-protection goals. For detailed investment thresholds, property options and application processes, you can refer to our individual program guides at harveylawcorporation.com. GLOBAL MOBILITY One of the most attractive reasons investors consider CBI in the Caribbean is the level of global mobility it provides. In all four programs, successful applicants receive visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 destinations worldwide. This typically includes the United Kingdom for stays of up to six months, the Schengen Area for short-term travel of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, and major Asian business hubs such as Singapore and Hong Kong. In addition, Caribbean Communi ty (CARICOM) membership allows regional mobility and work rights within the Caribbean. It is important to note that none of these programs provide automatic access to the United States, which generally requires a separate visa or ESTA depending on nationality. TAX ADVANTAGES Tax efficiency is another shared benefit available across all Caribbean CBI programs and a key reason many HNWIs consider Caribbean real-estate investments as part of a broader wealth structuring strategy. These jurisdictions do not impose personal income tax on non-residents, nor do they levy capital gains tax on property sales, inheritance tax, or net wealth tax. This is particularly advantageous for rental income generated from approved Caribbean properties. However, holding Caribbean citizenship does not, by itself, change an individual’s tax residency. Home-country tax obligations typically continue to apply unless residency and tax planning are addressed separately. FAMILY INCLUSION CBI in the Caribbean also provides long-term family planning benefits that extend beyond the initial applicant. All four programs grant lifetime citizenship that can be passed on to future generations. Spouses and dependent children are eligible for inclusion, although age limits vary by jurisdiction and typically range from 18 to 30 years. Parents and grandparents may also qualify, subject to age and dependency criteria, and future spouses or children can be added after citizenship has been granted. Among the four programs, Antigua and Barbuda is unique in allowing the inclusion of siblings. For individuals interested in gaining CBI in the Caribbean, professional legal advice is invaluable. Harvey Law Group brings over 32 years of immigration expertise with offices in 20 countries globally, including major hubs like Hong Kong, Paris, Miami and Montreal. Our specialised expertise extends to Caribbean real-estate investments, offering clients clear, professional guidance on selecting the most suitable jurisdiction, understanding contribution requirements and assisting with each step of the application process. HLG ensures a smooth and compliant process, we’re here to assist you at every juncture: contact@harveylawcorporation.com. Contact us for more info.
- Hong Kong Wide: July
What's happening across Hong Kong HONG KONG CHINESE CULTURAL FESTIVAL Brought to you through September by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, Hong Kong Chinese Cultural Festival features an extensive lineup of exhibitions, film screenings and performances celebrating Chinese arts. Accessible to all ages and staged at venues across the city, the festival kicks off on July 5 at Hong Kong City Hall with Resonance of Strings and Harmonics – a guqin recital by Yao Gongbai. Look for tickets at Urbtix. HONG KONG BOOK FAIR The 36th edition of Hong Kong Book Fair is taking place at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from July 15 to 21. This year’s theme is “Cultural Legacy / Joyful Journeys” and with it comes seminars by international authors, multimedia exhibits and a dedicated World of Art and Culture Zone featuring curated books and art installations that bring global cultural heritage to life. Purchase single-entry admission tickets at HK Ticketing. OPEN THE BOX Filipino artist Ryan Villamel is hosting a slow-growing participatory exhibition, Open the Box: Pleasant Place from July 4 to August 2 at Tai Kwun. Participants are invited into an immersive, forest-like environment, inspired by Villamael’s Locus Amoenus series. They are encouraged to actively shape the installation by creating paper leaves, vines and abstract landscape fragments that gradually accumulate to form a shared “pleasant place”. Entrance is free. VOLLEYBALL NATIONS LEAGUE The Women’s Volleyball Nations League is being held at Kai Tak Arena from July 8 to 12, with home team China playing Italy, Canada, Belgium, Ukraine and the Dominican Republic. The tournament offers an exciting opportunity to watch world-class volleyball live, and fans can also enjoy a free-admission carnival featuring interactive booths and performances. Purchase tickets at HK Ticketing and Damai. NGONG PING 360 20TH ANNIVERSARY The 20th anniversary celebrations of Ngong Ping 360’s foundation run from July 24 to October 11, with live Cantopop concerts and festival fun at Ngong Ping Village. On select weekends, cable car rides are available until 10pm, allowing passengers to enjoy illuminated night views of the Big Buddha and Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge. Additionally, over 20 well-known local brands are partnering to give individual cabins unique, cross-generational design makeovers. Purchase tickets at Klook.












