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Got a flat for rent in DB? There are ways to maximise its market appeal in 2021, but aiming for the height of home fashion isn’t among them. Elizabeth Kerr reports PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels We all have our tastes and demands and personal quirks. She likes her steak medium and he likes his well-done (even though that’s just wrong). Some of us can’t abide synthetic fabrics, while others couldn’t live without the ease of a dry cleaner-free wardrobe. Rubber thingy on the end of your toothbrush or not? Needless to say, such preferences extend to our homes. Even with the work-heavy lives most families lead, up to two-thirds of our time can be spent at home on any given day, sometimes more. You want it to look nice. Research by most of the high-end international property agencies represented in Hong Kong – Savills, Colliers, Knight Frank, Jones Lang LaSalle and so on – rarely lumps Discovery Bay in with the SAR’s premier residential locations. As far as pricing is considered, it sits squarely between the mass market and the luxury sector. This is something of an enigma given that the area’s most prominent features (greenery, relatively low-density planning and limited traffic) are precisely what drive rents and sales prices up in Mid-Levels and Island South. The issue for DB is its relative inaccessibility, though that’s arguably an advantage too. KNOW YOUR MARKET You could have drywall and bare wires hanging from the ceiling, and still rent your DB flat out for a hefty price if, say, it came with a really big private terrace. But back in the real world, if you are considering buying to rent, there are some practicalities worth considering. The first thing to keep in mind is the make-up of the local rental market. There are a lot of families in DB, certainly a larger proportion than other areas of Hong Kong, so rentals with a number of bedrooms and bathrooms are a good bet. What’s more, its expatriate residents frequently require creature comforts and environments similar to those they have left behind. Rare is the American, Canadian or Australian who will suffer a lack of outdoor space for barbeques, or settle for archaic or poorly functioning fixtures and fittings. Potential investors should also bear in mind the types of properties that attract renters to DB. Those who have just relocated here prefer apartments facing the water near the pier – in villages such as La Costa and Hillgrove or in prime developments like Chianti and Siena 2. Beach Village is still very popular as it is in close proximity to the pier, DB Plaza and so on. And it can be accessed by foot without the need for a bus. Likewise, villages like Amalfi and Positano near DB North Plaza rent well. It’s a good idea to also consider a flat’s position in relation to the main DB schools. For instance, Siena 1 is popular because of its proximity to Discovery College. PRIORITISE PRACTICAL DESIGN But there’s much more to a successful rental than simply location. Style matters. For better or worse, the cosmetic touches count and they can often be an indicator of what lies beneath. It is no secret that a nicely renovated property will attract renters over a tired looking one. The sleeker and more modern the decor the better – and new, large windows are a bonus. A properly finished outdoor space is a definite plus. Open plan layouts which see the living and dining areas combined are another good bet but be wary about opening up the kitchen. This kind of layout is popular and no doubt it can make an apartment feel bigger but it’s definitely not for everyone. Being unable to close the door on the kitchen (and the dirty dishes in the sink) is a dealbreaker for some. When decorating keep your colours light and bright, for example matte-white walls and ceilings, except in the kitchen and bathroom. This provides a clean, blank canvas, and will also make the touch-up procedure much easier. Lay the same flooring throughout the property apart from in the bathroom. This allows rooms to flow into each other. A durable wood or laminate floor will be easiest to maintain. Keep kitchens practical, modern and bright. Avoid work surfaces that damage easily, and install splashbacks for sink and stove to protect from grease and general dirt. Clean, white bathroom suites always look the part. Position plenty of tiled splash-back areas, and pay special attention to the fixtures and fittings. Intensely novel styling is best avoided. A decor that’s too individualised can be a problem. You’re better off creating an unobtrusive backdrop. Potential tenants may be put off by anything radical… or colourful. FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED? The personal style preference is what makes unfurnished flats the better option as well. Simply put, the furniture you choose may not appeal. Long-term renters will also want the option to move in with their own stuff. Built-in cabinetry, for example, may seem like a boon in storage lean Hong Kong, but immovable items are often a dealbreaker when potential tenants have near and dear cabinets of their own. And let’s face it, people want to sleep in their own beds. If you do decide to go the furnished or part-furnished route, opt for durable pieces that can withstand wear and tear. Choose wood- or aluminium-based furniture and dark upholstery fabrics. Either way, don’t forget the invisible touches. As omnipresent as it seems to be, broadband internet is an unusual inclusion because of service provider contract demands, but perks like recreation club memberships are popular. PROVIDE SOME SERVICES If you are looking to rent out an apartment short term – 28 days being the legal minimum – there are different requirements. Short-term lets, ideal for those who want to try DB before renting long term or purchasing, or for people jetting in to visit family (soon we hope) come fully inclusive of furniture and utilities, and as often as not, they are fully serviced. First, consider the concept of service. You need to be on call to hand over the keys, and deal with any issues (burst water mains, a broken light fixture) that crop up during a tenant’s stay. Second, make sure you approach each rental on the basis that everything can be negotiated. If cleaning is required during the lease period make sure it’s included; if a tenant requires a welcome hamper and some basic toiletries on arrival, provide them… for a small fee. Short-term renters travel light. They won’t be moving in with beds and sofas, or sheets and cushions for that matter, so the flat needs to be fully kitted out, right down to the cutlery drawer. Again, focus on setting up a durable, unobtrusive backdrop and pay particular attention to the kitchen and bathrooms, which need to be top-notch. Then add in key pieces of furniture and a smattering of stylish accessories. A serviced flat needs to be both fully functioning and clutter-free. Take your inspiration from a favourite hotel room, and shop IKEA.

Now’s the time for all of us to recommit to recycling, ensuring more of our waste stays out of landfill and gets a new lease of life. The EPD’s new pilot scheme on food waste collection can help us with that. Ray Robertson reports PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com & courtesy of Discovery Bay Services Management Ltd Over the years, Discovery Bay Services Management Ltd (DBSML), as the manager of Discovery Bay, has made every effort to enable residents to live green. There are communal separation bins at all villages, clearly labelled for glass, plastic, paper and metal, and we can head to the Green Icon@DB on Tuesdays to dispose of ‘harder to recycle’ items, such as polyfoam, liquid cartons, rechargeable batteries and energy-saving lightbulbs. Initiatives like these are boosted by flea markets and beach clean-ups, and green-related workshops supported by the DB landscape team at Community Green Square. Launched in April last year, Community Green Square serves to highlight the natural beauty of DB, while encouraging residents to join together in healthy and eco-friendly outdoor activities. In view of the intense pressure on landfill sites in Hong Kong, we all need to use less, re-use what we can and, most importantly perhaps, treat our waste like the waste industry sees it – as a resource. Consequently, as we move into 2022, DBSML has stepped up its commitment to food waste handling, boosting the measures already in place in DB by implementing the Environmental Protection Department’s (EPD) new pilot scheme on food waste collection. “A green lifestyle in DB is established – over the years, we have done a lot to make DB an ecofriendly place to live – and now is the time to focus on food waste handling and reducing waste generation at source,” opens Ernest Lee, Assistant Director of DBSML. “The EPD’s new pilot scheme on food waste collection takes what we have been doing in DB to another level. It is a responding solution for tackling the huge social challenge – the burden to the landfill sites – that we are facing in Hong Kong. At the same time, it benefits and enables eco-aware residents who want to reduce the amount of waste they generate.” NEW PILOT SCHEME The new pilot scheme, in place since December 1, 2021 expands the scope of food waste collection in DB, and all residential units have been invited to participate. Interest from residents has been keen. “Over 1,000 households were enrolled in the scheme as of the end of November, and the number of participants is increasing. DBSML has received an overwhelming response from residents,” says Ernest. “Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong, Discovery Bay Recreation Club and Fusion are now also participating.” With the support of City Owners’ Committee (COC), 54 designated purple bins for collecting domestic food waste have been placed in 17 villages in DB. The aim is to have 1,000 kilogrammes of food waste collected per day. “The City Owners’ Committee unanimously supports the new pilot scheme on food waste collection,” says Baby Hefti, Chairlady of the COC’s Environmental Protection Sub-Committee. “Most DB residents are very keen on reducing and recycling with an aim to alleviate the adverse impact on the environment. The food waste collection scheme is helping to relieve the pressure on landfill sites across Hong Kong. By participating in the scheme, parents can teach their children that we should handle our own food waste in an eco-way.” A series of training sessions including how to source separate recyclable food waste were provided by the EPD prior to the commencement of the scheme. The food waste collection bins are leak-proof, impervious to moisture and fitted with lids that close tightly and securely. Residents are tasked with keeping the collection points in each village clean and tidy, and disposing of their food waste properly. The EPD collects domestic food waste on a daily basis from DB and transports it to O•PARK1 in Siu Ho Wan (Hong Kong’s first organic resources recovery centre) for recycling. “DB is one of the pioneer properties to join this pilot scheme rolled out by the EPD to help progressively tackle the challenge of domestic food waste recycling,” Cary Wan, Senior Environmental Protection Officer of EPD says. “The EPD appreciates the support from Hong Kong Resort Company Ltd, DBSML, the COC and participating residents and merchants, and will facilitate the early achievement of the 1 tonne per day target.” THINK BEFORE YOU TRASH DB’s existing food waste collection drives will work in tandem with the new EPD pilot scheme. DBSML introduced its first Food Waste Collection Programme almost a decade ago, in 2012, to enable residents to dispose of their domestic food waste more productively. “Under the original programme, food waste collected by residents is transformed into fertiliser, which the DB landscape team uses for composting,” says Ernest. “This initiative is a powerful example of what can be achieved if our community works together to recycle, repurpose and reuse. The new pilot scheme on food waste collection will further propagate the concept of sustainable development in DB.” In addition, DBSML is already well ahead of the curve with regard to the Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Charging Scheme, which is expected to be fully implemented in Hong Kong in March 2023. In line with the ‘polluter-pays’ principle, charges will be based on the quantity of waste generated by each household. The idea is that as people become more aware that waste disposal comes with a cost, they will work harder to reduce and recycle. “DBSML launched a trial on the MSW Charging Scheme at Siena 2 and Headland Village in August 2021,” says Ernest. “Under the trial, participating residents are not required to pay but they can experience how the scheme operates and predict how much they will need to pay when it is in place.” One thing’s for sure, there are numerous ways all of us can live greener, as long as we are prepared to make the effort. Our actions on a daily basis have the potential to positively impact our environment. In 2022, why not recommit to boosting your existing recycling regime by committing to the new pilot scheme on food waste collection? NEW PILOT SCHEME ON FOOD WASTE COLLECTION KNOW MORE & ENROL NOW - HERE

If you seem to be having trouble with your drinking, or if your drinking has reached the point of where it worries you, you may be interested to know something about Alcoholics Anonymous Simply put, “ Once I start drinking, I can’t stop, and if I stop, I can’t stay stopped .” Perhaps you may know of someone like this. For these people, an alcohol-free life may be the answer. It begins as simply as one day at a time. For over 50 years in Hong Kong, a fellowship of sober alcoholics has been helping others recover from alcoholism by offering their experience, strength and hope at no cost and with no obligation. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety. Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) does not tell you if you are an alcoholic, only you can make that decision. A.A. in Hong Kong has grown to more than several hundred members and hosts almost 50 meetings each week in person and online. In person meetings take place all over the territory: on Hong Kong Island, in Kowloon and on the outlying island communities of Lamma and Discovery Bay. Our fellowship is diverse and includes people of every race, faith, age and profession. You can find men’s meetings, women’s meetings, LGBT+ meetings, atheists and agnostics, and Hong Kong online meetings with worldwide attendance. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There is no registration required or dues and fees. To join, all you have to do is attend any of our meetings. Some meetings are ‘open’ (to non-alcoholic visitors), others are ‘closed’ (for alcoholics and those who think they might have a drink problem) – all meetings will list details about this. Newcomers are encouraged to attend as many meetings throughout Hong Kong as possible to find a place they feel comfortable to get sober. A newcomer can soon discover how much time in a day they will have to achieve the things they want to achieve. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Why me? “ The explanation that seems to make sense to most A.A. members is that alcoholism is an illness, a progressive illness, which can never be cured but which, like some other diseases, can be arrested. Going one step further, many A.A. members feel that the illness represents a combination of a physical sensitivity to alcohol and Alcoholics Anonymous a mental obsession with drinking, which, regardless of consequences, cannot be broken by willpower alone .” Will everyone know I am an alcoholic if I come into A.A.? “ Anonymity is and always has been the basis of the A.A. programme. Most members, after they have been in A.A. awhile, have no particular objection if the word gets around that they have joined a fellowship that enables them to stay sober… And no one has the right to break the anonymity of another member. This means that the newcomer can turn to A.A. with the assurance that no newfound friends will violate confidences relating to his/ her drinking problem .” Getting sober isn’t easy but you need not do it alone. The A.A. fellowship will be with you throughout the world. A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any causes. If you are in need of help, you can contact the A.A. 24-hour English-speaking hotline (9073 6922) which can also provide support in Hindi, Nepali, Tamil, French and Flemish, as well as various dialects of Chinese. Find more information about A.A. in Hong Kong at www.aa-hk.org. A self-assessment is available at www.aa.org/pages/en_us/ is-aa-for-you-twelve-questionsonly-you-can-answer .

Pauline Fong , an Assistant Solicitor at Payne Clermont Velasco Solicitors, outlines what you need to know As a result of the pandemic and travel restrictions, many employees prefer to accumulate their annual leave and carry it forward. However, accumulating large amounts of accrued annual leave can create concerns for employers. It is a potential financial liability for the company, as accrued annual leave usually needs to be paid out when an employee ceases employment. Equally, employees should be careful that, in their wish to accrue annual leave, they don’t inadvertently forfeit it. Both employers and employees need to know whether it is permissible for employees to carry forward untaken annual leave and whether it is lawful for employers to forfeit untaken annual leave. First, one must understand that there are two types of annual leave: statutory and contractual. Statutory annual leave is the minimum days of paid annual leave prescribed by the Employment Ordinance. An employee’s entitlement to statutory annual leave increases progressively from seven days to a maximum of 14 days according to one’s length of service. For example, an employee who has worked for one year is entitled to seven days of annual leave in the following year. Contractual annual leave is any additional annual leave granted to the employee pursuant to the employment contract. Contractual annual leave is governed by the terms and conditions of the employment contract. If the employment contract makes no distinction between contractual and statutory annual leave, the Court may construe the contractual annual leave as the same as statutory annual leave, which imposes obligations on the employer under the Employment Ordinance. Consequently, employment contracts need to be carefully drafted to distinguish between contractual and statutory annual leave. CAN YOU CARRY IT FORWARD? Statutory annual leave cannot be forfeited. In fact, an employer must ensure that employees take all their accrued statutory annual leave within the following year. It is an offence under the Employment Ordinance to fail to grant statutory annual leave within the prescribed period. The untaken statutory annual leave should, at the election of the employee, be taken at a time agreed by the employer or paid in lieu. There is a lot more flexibility in dealing with contractual annual leave as there are contractual rights to be mutually agreed by the parties. The key is to draft the relevant terms and conditions clearly. For example, an employment contract can provide that any accrued annual leave in addition to statutory annual leave can be forfeited or carried forward to the next year with the permission of the employer if not taken within a year after it has been accrued. To provide more certainty, the employment contract can also state the maximum annual leave days that can be carried forward. Under the Employment Ordinance, an employer is entitled to ask the employee to take statutory annual leave by giving at least 14 days prior written notice. With regard to contractual annual leave, the arrangement is governed by the terms of the employment contract. In the absence of such terms, the contractual annual leave is likely to be treated as statutory annual leave. During the pandemic, when employees have little incentive to take annual leave, employers should nonetheless make sure employees take their statutory annual leave within the prescribed time. For the more generous contractual annual leave, when and how it should be taken would be governed by the relevant terms of the employment contract. Pauline Fong is an Assistant Solicitor at Payne Clermont Velasco Solicitors in Sheung Wan. The firm has considerable experience acting for both employers and employees in employment disputes. For more information: 2527 9538, enquiry@payneclermont.com , www.payneclermont.com .

Dreaming of skiing trips to come… PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels WHISTLER IS THE LARGEST SKIABLE AREA in North America, encompassing more than 8,000 acres over two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb. It’s a paradise for adventure sport lovers all year round but thanks to roughly 12 metres of annual snowfall, it exists because of skiing. With over 200 runs, you can spend weeks without going down the same run twice CHALET-STYLE WHISTLER VILLAGE gets busy throughout the winter season (November to May) and there are varied accommodation options including ski-in, ski-out resorts. Compact and fully pedestrianised, it’s easy to get around with great shops, restaurants and après-ski. BOBSLEDDING IS BIG AT WHISTLER , as is Luge (where you ride a sled on your back, feet first). Skeleton is another must for powder hounds. Sliding down a frozen track on a small sled headfirst, while lying face down, you can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometres per hour. BEGINNERS FIND THE BUNNY HILLS entertaining and there are instructors on hand offering lessons. Once you have mastered how to get onto a chair lift, turn and stop, you can venture onto any of the green runs. AT WHISTLER TUBE PARK youngsters (and the young at heart) can race down the slopes on inflatable tubes. Further familyfriendly activities include snowshoeing, tobogganing and baseboarding. A ZIP-LINE TOUR provides a totally different view of the mountains, glaciers, forests and village. Flying through the trees, it’s as if you’re alone in the wilderness. The experience will have you screaming as you zip between Whistler and Blackcomb peaks on a wire. TWENTY DOUBLE BLACK DIAMOND RUNS provide a challenge for expert skiers, and for an even bigger adrenalin buzz, there’s heli-skiing. A 10-person helicopter takes you to a part of Whistler Mountain where lifts just don’t go. From here you can make your own fresh tracks down.

It’s time for alternative therapies to take a more regular place beside our existing medical treatments, and DB residents Susan Smith, Angie Tourani and Adina Wong are going to prove it. Elizabeth Kerr reports PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com Susan Smith is standing in the sun at the Discovery Bay ferry pier, a light jacket draped over her arm, unnecessary despite the breeze and the sudden dryness that’s blanketed the city. “I thought I needed it this morning,” she quips with a Manchester lilt that hasn’t thinned in her 28 years in Hong Kong. On the way up to her apartment, we run into India-born Angie Tourani, herself a 27-year Hong Kong resident and a recent acquaintance of Susan. After a couple of minutes, native Hongkonger Adina Wong, a 15- year DB resident, turns up and parks herself on the sofa. They’re the kind of eclectic trio that’s very typical of Hong Kong and DB. One of the things that unites these ladies is an interest in alternative healing and a shared determination to expand the work they do in DB in the coming year. Introduced by alternative medicine practitioner Dr Sue Jamieson of the Integrative Medical Practice in Central, they finally met up a few months ago to put their heads together to see what they could do to spread the gospel of healing outside the box. THE HEALERS The short version: Susan is an energy healer, with a specialty in reiki and its more powerful sibling, sekhem, both of which she found herself drawn to 25 years ago while still working as an educator with ESF schools. Angie is an advanced certified BodyTalk practitioner, and Hong Kong’s only advanced certified instructor, which she describes as the practice of using the body’s innate wisdom to correct itself. “BodyTalk is about helping the body to heal from the inside out. It’s not about looking at symptoms but rather why the problem is there.” Adina rounds out the triumvirate with her hypnotherapy and past life regression therapy, in addition to energy healing. “It increases your general awareness and helps in making decisions and taking action,” explains Adina. For the sceptics out there, Susan, Angie and Adina couldn’t look farther from new-agey if they tried; there isn’t a whiff of patchouli (or frankincense) about them. Susan, who retired to DB 18 months ago, is sporty looking, with vaguely spiky bronze hair. Angie has movie star locks and a relaxed, confident demeanour. Draped in an elegant shawl, Adina looks like an artist – or possibly an art dealer. None has any religious affiliations – a common misconception – although all three admit to a spiritual element to their practices. COURTING CONVENTION Alternative therapy is becoming increasingly mainstream but the DB trio are fully aware of lingering misconceptions of their industry. Adina jokes about assuring people she’s not going to mesmerise them into forking over their bank account information. Susan is more laissez faire, arguing, “For someone who doesn’t really want to be there the energy isn’t as strong. You have to be open to giving it a go. It’s different strokes for different folks.” They brush aside accusations of quackery and snake oil peddling, but are quick to respect anyone’s scepticism. And despite all three agreeing there’s a growing interest in alternative health therapies in Hong Kong, critics with valid arguments still abound, among them the Journal of the American Medical Association and the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority . That said, a lengthy 2019 report by the World Health Organisation stated that: “Traditional and complementary medicine is an important and often underestimated health resource with many applications, especially in the prevention and management of lifestyle-related chronic diseases, and in meeting the health needs of ageing populations.” “We don’t replace doctors, and I make that very clear,” states Susan. “We can help, and if someone is refusing traditional medicine, I like to remind them I’m a healer.” That’s particularly important now, when COVID misinformation and vaccine conspiracy theories are rampant worldwide. “Absolutely,” says Adina when asked if they have a responsibility to be extra vigilant about expectations these days. Angie points out that many of her clients have been referred by so-called ‘real doctors;’ she works with people who could use extra support with medical treatment as we know it. “Western medicine is amazing, and crucial, for acute diseases and surgeries, but with chronic conditions it has limited scope,” argues Angie, who discovered BodyTalk while living in South Africa in 2005 and seeking alternative healthcare for her young children, now 21 and 22. “It’s a complement, not a replacement.” Susan, Angie and Adina claim they can assist with end-stage cancer pain elimination, management of chronic back trouble, stress relief, dealing with past sexual assaults, trouble conceiving and kids with ADHD among other ailments. WORKING WITH ENERGY Like Angie and Susan, Adina has a personal connection to her disciplines. As a kid, she developed an interest in hypnotherapy by watching it (inaccurately) portrayed on TV. However, Adina refers to herself as a seeing-isbelieving type; she prefers experience to description. “Hypnotherapy helped me overcome a lot of barriers in the past, and it led me to past life therapy. I had so many questions without answers until I finally visited a past life therapist. I just wanted to answer my questions, solve my issues and move forward. I started my spiritual journey there.” Adina’s treatments are designed to help us learn important lessons we don’t necessarily realise we need; this is important karmically, since missed lessons are carried forward “until you solve the problem or it grows more serious.” BodyTalk is a whole healthcare system but it’s essentially about communication networks, about our trillions of cells working together and how illness and disease result from those networks breaking down due to environmental stressors – which can range from schoolyard bullying to food poisoning. It’s a consciousness-based, non-diagnostic therapy that stimulates the body’s ability to balance and heal itself. Energy healing is every bit as complicated, but it’s rooted in the concept of universal energy and its power to heal. “I work as a conduit for energy. That sounds bizarre when you talk to someone who’s never been through it,” says Susan with a chuckle. “Clients lie down, fully clothed, and we discuss what their issue might be. The notion is that behind every physical issue there’s some kind of emotional or mental issue – from childhood, or a past life – and we have a blocked energy channel because of it.” Native Hongkonger Adina chimes in to note that what happens in a therapy session stays there: “Locals care about what people think so I keep it really low key,” she assures. “If I see someone in a shop, I just leave them be. Privacy is really important.” TIME TO REBOOT To kick off 2022 – and the Year of the Tiger – Susan (sused.ltd@gmail.com), Angie (www.bodytalksystem. com.hk) and Adina (www.nadihealings.com) have some pricing specials on offer for DB residents until mid-February. Adina runs a monthly workshop in DB North Plaza, Angie works out of Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI) in Central, and all three have unsurprisingly shifted some of their work online since 2020. Equally unsurprising, Susan prefers hands-on treatment (no pun intended), though she can switch to distance healing if she meets clients in person at least a few times. So the $64,000 question becomes: Why start the year with energy healing, hypnosis and BodyTalk rather than a spa weekend and a few bottles of Pinot Noir? “I think it depends on what you want in life. If you just want to chill, I’d go with the spa and the wine,” says Susan, whose small wine fridge peeks out of the kitchen. “But if it’s something deep that’s making you feel anxious or uncomfortable none of those things is going to make a substantial difference.” Angie agrees. “It’s a long-term strategy. It’s looking at the roots, healing from the inside out and solving the problem versus masking it with a temporary fix."

Spectacular Holiday Desserts Want to really push the boat out this year? These time-honoured showstoppers capture the essence of traditional Christmas baking and are sure to wow your guests Photos Courtesy of Adobe Stock CHRISTMAS TRIFFLE Serves 6 5 trifle sponge cakes Raspberry jam 225g frozen raspberries 55ml sherry 550ml double cream 3 egg yolks 25g caster sugar 1tsp cornflour 2 small bananas, peeled and sliced thin 50g flaked almonds Break the sponge cakes into pieces and spread a little raspberry jam on each piece. Place them in a large glass bowl and sprinkle the frozen raspberries and sherry over. Stir well. To make the custard, heat 275ml double cream in a small saucepan. Blend the egg yolks, sugar and cornflour together in a basin, and when the cream is hot pour it over the egg mixture, stirring constantly. Return the custard to the saucepan and stir over a very low heat until thick. Leave to cool. Sprinkle the bananas in amongst the raspberries and pour the custard over the top. Garnish with the remaining (whipped) cream, additional berries and the almonds. Cover and chill well before serving. BAKED ALASKA Serves 8 300g caramel ice cream 200g black cherry conserve 400g vanilla ice cream 5 egg whites 200g caster sugar 400g Christmas cake (with icing removed) Line a 900ml pudding basin with a double layer of cling film. Scoop the caramel ice cream into the bowl, patting it down well. Top with the conserve, followed by the vanilla ice cream. Pat down firmly, cover with cling film and freeze for at least 2 hours. Heat the oven to 200°C. Whisk the egg whites until stiff, then slowly whisk in the sugar until firm and glossy. Slice the cake and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, to make a round the same size as the top of the ice-cream bowl. Press together well to make sure there aren’t any gaps. Lift the ice cream out of the bowl, remove the cling film and turn onto the cake. Spread the meringue evenly over the ice cream and cake, making sure there are no gaps. Bake for 4-5 minutes until nicely coloured. Serve immediately

Feeling nostalgic for Christmases past in Salzburg PHOTOS COURTESY OF Sarah Muirhead & Unsplash HOME TO APPLE STRUDEL , The Sound of Music and Mozart, Salzburg really is the perfect place for a Christmas vacation. Stay in the old town, with its beautifully preserved baroque architecture backed by the snow-capped Austrian Alps. SALZBURG CHRISTKINDLMARKT IS ONE OF THE MERRIEST and oldest Christmas markets in the world. An annual event in Cathedral Square since way back in the 15th century, it’s all about nostalgia for Christmases past. Treat yourself to mulled wine and stollen as you shop, and then go for a spin on the outdoor ice rink. WITH ITS MIGHTY DOME AND MARBLE FACADE, SALZBURG CATHEDRAL (Salzburger Dom) is an impressive tribute to the early baroque. The three gates stand for Faith, Love and Hope, with the middle gate (for Love) somewhat larger. The seven bells also have names, ranging from Salvator (the biggest) to Barbara (the smallest). WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART WAS BORN in 1756 at the Hagenauer Haus on Getreidegasse in Salzburg. Mozart’s Geburtshaus is now one of the most frequently visited museums in the world, somewhere fans gather to learn about the composer’s early life. MIRABELL PALACE GARDENS are incredibly beautiful even in winter and they boast fabulous views of Salzach River, the old town and fortress skyline. As you stroll the grounds, you will likely recognise the Pegasus Fountain, which Maria and the von Trapp kids danced around in The Sound of Music SALZBURG’S STORYBOOK CHRISTMAS MARKETS are a world away from the commercialised glitz of a Hong Kong mall. Each year, hundreds of vendors set up wooden huts at various locations throughout the old town from which to dole out traditional crafts, local produce and Christmas ornaments.

ANISHA KUMAR RAMANATHAN , SENIOR ASSOCIATE AT WITHERS, DISCUSSES THE BENEFITS OF A PRE-NUPTIAL AGREEMENT More and more couples are discussing getting a Pre- Nuptial Agreement (PNA) in anticipation of marriage. Such agreements are already very common in the US and in Europe, and their popularity in Asia continues to grow. Though not yet legally binding in Hong Kong per se, since a Court of Final Appeal ruling in 2014, the presumption is that Family Courts should uphold PNAs if they are fair and both parties fully understand the implications. A properly drafted PNA is crucial to protect the assets of the party bringing the most wealth into the marriage or to safeguard any potential inheritance or business interests. For most, the challenging aspect of a PNA is broaching the subject with their partner in the first place. It is a sensitive and awkward topic which could lead to a negative reaction during a time meant to be filled with happiness and excitement. Strong marriages are built on good communication so the best way to avoid awkwardness is to broach the subject as early as possible in a relationship, and to have a frank and open discussion about your future together. DOS AND DON’TS TO CONSIDER Be fair and honest. One of the fastest ways for a PNA to be invalidated is if one of the parties has not fully disclosed their assets. A schedule of assets should be attached to the PNA so the parties are ‘full and frank’ with each other about their financial position when entering into the marriage. Do not allow emotions to prevail. If the drafting of the PNA is causing undue stress and arguments, take a short break from the process. This is why it is advisable to start the process early. It is better to wait until you are able to put your emotions aside and proceed with your best interests in mind. Treat it as insurance. You would insure against burglary or upon entering a business contract, in the hope that nothing bad will happen. It should be the same for a marriage. Encourage review. Both parties should know exactly what the PNA says and what the terms require. Often one party will have the document drafted by his or her lawyer first and then sent to the other for review. You should encourage your partner to obtain independent legal advice and review the document as it is important that they also have their interests protected. Do not include anything that is illegal or would be considered unconscionable and do not include anything that may encourage or trigger divorce. A good lawyer will advise against this as it would defeat the purpose of having a PNA in the first place. Do not leave it until the last minute. If the PNA is drafted too close to the wedding, the spouse may try to invalidate it. It is always wise to have the agreement signed and sealed at least 28 days before the big day. The document can then be filed away and in ideal circumstances, forgotten about. However, if the worst does happen, the PNA will be an excellent insurance. For more information on PNAs and protecting yourself in the unfortunate event of a divorce, reach out to Anisha Kumar Ramanathan, Senior Associate at Withers, at anisha.ramanathan@withersworldwide.com . Withers, 30/F United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty, 3711 1600, www.withersworldwide.com .

Kate Farr hacks the hassle out of choosing a tree, decking the halls and serving up a gourmet Christmas lunch PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexels Christmas in Hong Kong can be a magical time of year. It can also be a frankly stressful one, with food, decorations and gifts to arrange… that’s before you even start thinking how to fill the school holidays. Here are a few helpful hints to making the festive season fun and hassle-free this year. TRIM THE TREE One of the biggest Hong Kong Christmas dilemmas comes from choosing a tree. While many swear that nothing compares to the scent of a real spruce, others cite environmental concerns (not to mention all those spiky needles) as a reason to fake it through the festive season. Whether you’re on team real or team reusable, there are a few crafty shortcuts to make your tree a towering success. Order your real tree well in advance to avoid disappointment; they tend to get snapped up quickly from the beginning of December. Look for Nordmann Firs – a special breed that not only has softer needles, but also sheds less as it dries out, making it a friendlier option for those with young kids or pets. Don’t forget accessories such as tree stands and wreaths; Garden Plus in Mui Wo stocks everything you need, along with the ultimate in convenience – a removal service. Keep the tree in a cool and draughty spot to minimise the needle fall. If you prefer plastic and its shed-free durability, then City super’s luxury artificial trees will see you through year after year. Failing that, good old Japan Home Centre (JHC) has an abundance of cheap and very cheerful trees – you can also find every possible permutation of lights and tinsel here for pocket-change prices. Missing the authentic scent of the season? Splash out on a few scented candles (in pine, cinnamon and winterberry) that will more than compensate for the lack of puncture marks in your feet. DECK THE HALLS Aside from the aforementioned JHC tinselfest, Christmas decor opens up all kinds of opportunities for young kids to get crafty with an abundance of glitter glue, pipe-cleaners and felt. If they’ve brought home sackfuls of art projects from school, consider collating them all into an artwork print – a beautiful personalised memento which you can bring out for years to come. For little ones who want to get hands-on, empty yoghurt pots can be decorated with Christmassy stickers – poke a small hole in the base and hang a button for an instant ‘bell.’ Spray pinecones in gold or silver and make strings of gingerbread men – a couple of coats of varnish will make them last for years to come. Store everything away safely for next year in empty egg boxes and wind Christmas lights around a coat hanger to keep them tangle-free. WINING AND DINING Craving an old-fashioned Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, but stuck with a tiny Hong Kong-sized kitchen? Before you Google ‘how to microwave a 21lb turkey,’ don’t panic – there are always crafty cheats to ensure that both your dinner, and more importantly, you, are beautifully presented on the big day. The ultimate hack is, of course, to forgo slaving away in the kitchen altogether and head out for Christmas lunch. However, if your big day wouldn’t be complete without a heated debate over the gravy boat, then you can pre-order turkey and all the trimmings from Discovery Bay Recreation Club (club members get a discount) and some DB restaurants. The Auberge’s Christmas Takeaway looks like a particularly good bet with party canapes and salads, as well as festive mains and desserts available through December 27. And what’s Christmas without a tipple or two? Watson’s Wine right here in the South Plaza is offering discounts on champagne and wine throughout the holiday season, and Two More Glasses delivers for free in Discovery Bay for orders over HK$1,200. Forgotten to stock the fridge and have guests arriving? You can speed-chill your drinks in one of two ingenious ways. The first is to wet a tea towel, wrap it around your bottle and then place it in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes. The cold travels faster through water than through air, resulting in a nicely icy bottle. The second is to fill an ice bucket (or at a pinch, a washing up bowl) with water and ice, then add a generous handful of salt. Salt water chills your drink considerably faster than fresh water, leaving you ready to pour in record time. DARE TO BE DIFFERENT No doubt, Christmas is a time for sharing gifts with our nearest and dearest; but in our eagerness to treat our loved ones to something special, it can be easy to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. How about trying a few festive alternatives that put over-consumption firmly back in its box? Begin by asking questions such as ‘What do the children have?’ ‘What do they need?’ and ‘What is our financial situation like?’ Once you have those answers, it’s easier to decide on – and stick to – a budget for gifts. Another trick worth employing when it comes to Christmas shopping for children comes in the form of an easy mantra: “Something they want, something they need, something to wear, something to read.” This leaves plenty of scope for practical gifting with a few treats that will be genuinely well-received. Give simple stockings filled with small gifts including things like a piece of fruit… try something different. If you refuse to buy into the societal pressure of having to have a ‘perfect’ Christmas, you can relax and enjoy the time together, while reminding children what Christmas is about, according to your own philosophy. And if you’re looking for alternatives to the traditional avalanche of gifts in favour of making lasting memories, the options are endless: Decorate your apartment and Christmas tree together, involve the kids in Christmas dinner preparation, head to festive events such as carol services or theatre shows as a family, do something for charity or take a special family outing.

The DBers in the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir sit down with Elizabeth Kerr for a much needed, socially distanced catch-up and to discuss plans for the holiday season PHOTOS BY Baljit Gidwani - www.evoqueportraits.com In meeting up with the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir (HKWMVC) in early November a distinct sense of déjà vu descends. We meet in a Starbucks tucked away in a busy office tower again – this time at the Hopewell Centre in Wanchai, before the short walk to the choir’s rehearsal space, currently inside the Methodist International Church on Queen’s Road East. In truth the similarity ends there, because this time de facto PR director Neil Juggins, in-house dispenser of amusingly dry anecdotes Dennis Wan, and one-time toy guru Richard Crosbie are joined by new members Simon Li and Gil De Clercq, Bernard Murphy, who missed the confab in 2018, and 33-year veteran John Walsh – an interloper who lives in Kowloon. The boys – and they’re buzzing like school kids, so boys it is – have commandeered the entire bench on the café’s left side and occupy four socially distanced tables for two. A girl could get used to having seven dudes demanding her attention. But the members of the HKWMVC ( www.hkwmvc.com ) are perfect gentlemen, and for the first time in 18 months their rehearsals are working towards actual public performances for the Christmas season. Gigs already lined up include the tree lighting at Taiko Place on December 2, Light Up A Life concert to support hospice care at St John’s Cathedral on December 7 and a season-closing four shows at The Peninsula starting on December 18. None of which precludes them acting like a bunch of kids hanging out after class. To be fair it has been 18 months of isolated Zoom rehearsals. The choir’s making up for lost time, but the camaraderie clearly hasn’t vanished. Conversation bobs and weaves and comes back around, and there’s a lot of joking. PRINCES OF WALES Asked if he was nervous for his first performance in front of his wife and children, and Gil throws out a deadpan, “I was nervous they wouldn’t be quiet.” Bernard laments his poor second language skills, pointing at Simon with a vaguely accusing, “But at least he speaks Welsh!” To that, Simon comes back with a panicked, “I’ve got two thick books of songs to learn, just for the Christmas stuff.” For his part Richard is just happy that Gil and Simon “are helping to bring the average age of the choir down.” At some point everyone pauses long enough for Dennis to launch into a twisty story about his uncle A-suk (a fellow choir member), his grandmother, a neighbour’s daughters and, ultimately, A-suk’s poor recruiting techniques. “My point is my uncle is the worst recruiter in the world; he’s the close the deal guy. The day after my first visit he’s going hard, calling, texting. ‘Are you joining?’ Which goes to another point: We are recruiting.” Indeed they are. Things have changed since 2018. For starters long-time member Patrick Budden, and several others, left Hong Kong. “We’ve lost a lot of members for various reasons, and we are losing people because of the long quarantine,” laments Neil. He himself gave up equity analysis for education when his small bank’s business dried up due to COVID and his young son was learning online. After helping out, he decided to retrain as a teacher and is currently doing his PGCE. “I’m completely mad,” he says with a chuckle. “It’s exhausting. They never stop. But I am loving it.” For his part Richard moved out of toy design – he had been working with Toys R Us in the US – and into art (watch this space). Dennis is taking a much-needed break from investment banking after two straight years of chaos. But the news isn’t all grim. Richard claims the choir has made up the departures with new members, like Simon and Gil. Simon has been in Hong Kong 11 years and is one of the choir’s few actual Welsh speakers, which he admits came through ulterior motives. “This is a weird story,” he begins. “Another one!” Neil interjects, but Simon is uncowed. The UK-born filmmaker explains how a friend of his Welsh wife’s father invited them boating one day, and he and Simon’s future wife randomly broke out into a few Welsh songs. He was an HKWMVC member, and in an effort to be a good fiancé Simon contacted the choir and had about 40 show up at Pier 8 on their wedding day. “They sang for us before we got on a junk. She thought it was a rugby team. It was a great son-in-law flex.” All kidding aside, Simon’s enjoyed his first week in the HKWMVC. “I’m really struck by how welcoming everyone is,” he says. Animal nutritionist Gil’s road to the HKWMVC isn’t as serendipitous. He followed his banker wife to Hong Kong from their home in Belgium, and it was she who saw the choir and suggested he look them up. That was almost four years ago when the couple relocated. “It took me two years to send an email to the committee. I was still travelling at that time, but this past year was a good time to start. I was here, and had the time to commit to practice,” he says. Newcomer or veteran, the one commonality at all four tables is a genuine love of singing. Bernard came to Hong Kong in 1992 with the British army’s medical corps before he segued into law. A healthcare solicitor living in DB for 16 years and a choir member since 2014, Bernard’s connection came through John; both were previously in The Hong Kong Singers. “He told me he also sang in the Welsh choir and I should come along. So I put it in my diary and about 25 years later I finally turned up for a rehearsal. But it’s a delight, and I wish I had joined earlier,” Bernard says. A WALES OF A TIME Neil et al’s arrival at the Methodist International Church brings the total number at practice to around 30. A-suk is here; Simon and Gil settle into their spots after some social milling about. English composer and former University of Warwick music director Colin Touchin is still conducting, and it’s a matter of seconds for him to make the schoolboy vibe evaporate. The choir sounds remarkably clear though their masks as Colin puts them through their paces. “Baritones! Tenors! Let’s try that one more time,” and “Everyone stand, please.” The HKWMVC runs through a couple of tunes from its Christmas programme – Deck the Hall, In the Bleak Midwinter and a rousing When a Child is Born. There’s no time for Abba these days. Bookings for performances are trickling back in as fast as possible given ongoing restrictions, and the boys in the band are already looking ahead to 2022. The Christmas slate adds new dates every few days, proving Hongkongers are looking forward to hearing Welsh voices at year’s end. Dennis sums it up best. After missing two years of choir to work he found stepping into a performance at DB’s Three Sheets in October (the choir’s first show post-COVID) like riding a bike. “I was resistant. I hadn’t done this in two years. No way was it going to work. Oddly enough all the Welsh stuff just came flooding back. The English stuff? I had no clue. But the Welsh songs stuck,” he finishes. “Because they’re so beautiful.”

A state-of-the-art facility designed to nurture excellence in ice sports, while providing a new and unique entertainment venue for residents, DB Ice Rink gets our vote! REPORTING BY Rachel Sadler PHOTOS COURTESY OF DB Ice Rink The ice-rink-in-a-mall formula has been proven to work in Hong Kong, and Discovery Bay’s latest attraction – an international-standard, indoor ice rink in DB Plaza – is no exception. Opened in May this year, DB Ice Rink is both a brand-new sports venue and a much-needed recreational hub – a welcome addition to the community. In addition to the leisure-skating sessions, a series of special community-led events and themed nights have appealed directly to residents. There’s also the skating school, providing training for all levels in figure skating and ice hockey, plus a regular lineup of performances, competitions and ice-hockey tournaments – all delivered in line with the strictest social distancing protocols. “Residents have welcomed the opening of a new world-class ice rink in DB,” opens Raul Gomes Senior Manager at DB Ice Rink. “We’ve received an overwhelming response from people who want to enrol in our classes and skate in the public sessions.” COMMUNITY EVENTS From the outset, DB Ice Rink has positioned itself as a community hub, somewhere for residents to build their skating skills and most importantly have fun. One of the first initiatives, back in May, was a series of free figure-skating performances put on by DB Ice Rink coaches to inspire everyone onto the ice. Residents-only skating nights have also proved extremely popular with DBers of all ages. “Being part of the DB community, we want to offer something special for DB residents,” says Raul. “Since September, we have organised skating nights for residents at a special discount.” The next residents only skate night is scheduled for December 10. The first themed night at DB Ice Rink was held over Halloween weekend, and it was a huge success, complete with scary decorations, trick-or-treating staff and an Instagram-based best-dressed competition. The evening session on October 30 was a skate in the dark party, with glow paints provided. “It was a fun night and we had a good attendance,” says Raul. “Participants dressed up as different characters to join the Spooky Halloween Skating Party and the kids were very excited with the face painting, trick or treating and giveaways. For the best-dressed competition on social media, we received many stunning photos and it was not easy for us to pick the winner. “The positive response from residents encouraged us to continue this initiative and organise more themed nights in the future,” adds Raul. “This holiday season, we have decided to partner with Japanese cartoon character Monchhichi to present the first Monchhichi-themed ice rink in Hong Kong.” DB Ice Rink’s first Christmas programme is in fact packed with fun activities. There’s a Christmas Figure-Skating Show, performed by the skating school’s coaches and students (December 18 and 19); Busking on the Ice (December 24 and 25); a Meet with Santa Claus photo opportunity on December 25; a China Hockey Group Ice Hockey Tournament (December 27 to 30); and a Skating Countdown Party (December 31). “At the Christmas Figure-Skating Show, our coaches will perform together with the students, showcasing the talents of our skating school,” says Raul. The show’s uptake has surpassed expectations with around 200 students expected to perform together with their coaches and special guest skaters from the Hong Kong National Team. FIGURE-SKATING CLASSES Diverse programmes, designed for figure skaters of all levels, are on offer at DB Ice Rink’s skating school – and Raul says the response from those looking to enrol has been fantastic, particularly among DB residents. “Currently, we have a waiting list of over 400 students waiting for the schedule to free up so that they can join our classes. Over 80% of our students are DB residents.” Harry Lee, a six-time Hong Kong champion figure skater (former world ranking 130), heads up a team of four professional ice-skating coaches at the skating school. Classes follow Ice Skating Institute Asia guidelines, taking skaters from beginner to competition level. Kids can start their training aged three, with coaches focusing on fun, technique and stamina. Semi-private, private and walk-in classes are available. “The semi-private classes are the most popular as many people like to learn skating with friends or family,” Raul says. “Many adults have enrolled in our skating classes and many are enrolled in our Christmas show too.” ICE SPORTS As part of its bid to support the development of ice sports in Hong Kong, DB Ice Rink has partnered with the China Hockey Group (CHG). Now in its third year, CHG is at the centre of growth driving ice hockey forward in the region. “Our goal is to create a world-class venue for international competitions, such as ice-hockey tournaments. Therefore, we decided to partner with China Hockey Group, which champions a number of hockey initiatives,” Raul explains. “We are excited that the CIHL Division 1 League, Division 2 League and Women’s League will be held at DB Ice Rink next season. We will be hosting the CIHL finals in April 2022, and the Greater Bay Championship in May 2022.” CHG now provides training programmes at DB Ice Rink, with the aim to nurture young talent and prepare players to compete at a high level. “China Hockey Group’s Junior Tiger programme offers various training sessions, leagues, camps and tournaments throughout the season, catering to children of all ages and abilities,” says Raul. DB Ice Rink is now also home to non-profit community based ice-hockey team the DBees, who previously had to commute to Kowloon to train. “In June, as part of our commitment to develop local ice hockey talent, we offered four, free sessions to the DBees to help them recruit new members,” Raul says. “After the four sessions their membership quadrupled, and they are now training here twice a week. “The state-of-the-art facilities offered by DB Ice Rink create an inclusive environment for players to learn and develop their skills and potential,” adds Raul. “DBees’ Founder Stuart Winchester is a highly respected coach. He is committed to developing serious talent in DB.” Children as young as four can join the DBees, and young players compete in CHG’s Junior Tiger programme. While the majority of the DBees players are aged five to 14, juniors transition into the DBees’ adult league once they turn 18. In November, the DB Curling Club also started practicing at DB Ice Rink, and Raul is expecting more collaboration with the team in the future. Looking ahead to 2022, Raul says nurturing young talent will remain a top priority, as will providing an exciting programme of recreational activities for both residents and visitors. “We will continue to organise different themed nights, professional figure-skating contests, and local and international ice-hockey tournaments,” he says. “We are working with different partners and wish to bring more sport-related events to DB Ice Rink next year. DB Ice Rink is open from 10am to 9pm Monday to Friday and from 10am to 10pm at the weekends. To find out more, visit www.dbicerink.com , and follow @db.icerink on FB/ IG