Set your kids up for football fun and Mandarin adventures! HK DRAGONS dragons.hk HK Dragons Football Christmas Camps run from 9am to 10.30am at DB North Plaza Football Pitch. This year, there’s a five-day camp from December 14 to 18, a four-day camp from December 21 to 24 and a four-day camp from December 28 to 31. The Dragons’ experienced coaches welcome U6-U15 boys and girls, of all abilities, to get active, build skills and have fun on the pitch! WhatsApp: 6417 3303 Email: theoffice@dragons.com.hk LINGUABOX linguaboxgroup.com Linguabox is a leading, Hong Kong- based online platform for Mandarin and Cantonese tutoring, recognised for its engaging, results-driven approach to building confidence and fluency. One-to- one lessons with certified native tutors are tailored to individual goals and supported by personalised homework, lesson notes and progress reports. Linguabox also prepares students, aged 4 to 19 years, for HSK, YCT, IB Chinese and IGCSE exams. WhatsApp: 9225 3899 Email: info@linguaboxgroup.com YIFAN MANDARIN yifancamps.com The Yifan Mandarin Winter Camp runs from December 14 to 18, and December 28 to 31, from 9.30am to 12pm, at Discovery Bay International School. Children aged 3.5 to 9 years get to explore storytelling, crafts and mini- sports, while learning Mandarin in a fun and joyful way. 一帆中文冬令營今年將在愉景灣國際學校舉 行；助孩子們在假期快速提高中文水平 WhatsApp: 9208 7611 Email: admin@yifanmandarin.com

Set your kids up for football fun and Mandarin adventures! SAFETY FIRST Before enrolling your child in a holiday camp, ask about staff qualifications, supervision ratios and first-aid procedures. Provide camp counsellors with emergency contact details, plus any medical information they should know about. WHAT TO PACK Children are more likely to keep track of their belongings if they only bring what they need for the day. Essentials include a refillable water bottle, healthy snack, small backpack and change of clothes. Before camp starts, label all your child’s belongings clearly. STAY CONNECTED Take time each day to chat with your child about their camp experience. Ask what they enjoyed, what they learned and who they spent time with. Showing interest helps build confidence, encourages communication and allows you to address any concerns early. HK DRAGONS dragons.hk HK Dragons Football Christmas Camps run from 9am to 10.30am at DB North Plaza Football Pitch. This year, there’s a five-day camp from December 14 to 18, a four-day camp from December 21 to 24 and a four-day camp from December 28 to 31. The Dragons’ experienced coaches welcome U6-U15 boys and girls, of all abilities, to get active, build skills and have fun on the pitch! WhatsApp: 6417 3303 Email: theoffice@dragons.com.hk LINGUABOX linguaboxgroup.com Linguabox is a leading, Hong Kong- based online platform for Mandarin and Cantonese tutoring, recognised for its engaging, results-driven approach to building confidence and fluency. One-to- one lessons with certified native tutors are tailored to individual goals and supported by personalised homework, lesson notes and progress reports. Linguabox also prepares students, aged 4 to 19 years, for HSK, YCT, IB Chinese and IGCSE exams. WhatsApp: 9225 3899 Email: info@linguaboxgroup.com YIFAN MANDARIN yifancamps.com The Yifan Mandarin Winter Camp runs from December 14 to 18, and December 28 to 31, from 9.30am to 12pm, at Discovery Bay International School. Children aged 3.5 to 9 years get to explore storytelling, crafts and mini- sports, while learning Mandarin in a fun and joyful way. 一帆中文冬令營今年將在愉景灣國際學校舉 行；助孩子們在假期快速提高中文水平 WhatsApp: 9208 7611 Email: admin@yifanmandarin.com

Discovery Bay events from the past few months UNDER THE HARVEST MOON On September 25, the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, residents gathered at Tai Pak Beach to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival. Lanterns were lit, mooncakes shared and the moon admired as the community came together to enjoy this traditional celebration. [PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew J.C. Spires.] DRAGON BOAT GALA The DB dragon boat races kicked off at 9am on October 25, with more than 50 teams competing off Tai Pak Beach. This year, funds raised during the event will go to the Children's Cancer Foundation. [PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew J.C. Spires and Rhoda Manzano.] PINK RUN FOR GOOD Pink Run for Good, a charity event featuring 5km and 10km routes, took place on October 24 at Tung Chung Promenade. Held in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, everyone wore pink to show their solidarity and support for the cause. The run successfully raised funds to bring free ultrasound cancer screenings to the Lantau community. [PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew J.C. Spires.] HALLOWEEN ON HEADLAND AND BEYOND DB residents take Halloween seriously! Ghouls, ghosts and goblins were out in force for a full day of trick-or-treating and spectacular dress-up. Come nightfall, Headland Drive was the place to be, with sweet treats, spooky decorations and plenty of community spirit. [PHOTOS BY Andrew Spires.]

More than a game or an extracurricular activity, sport is shaping future-ready students at Harrow International School Hong Kong When parents think about preparing their children for the future, conversations often centre around academic achievement, university pathways and emerging technologies. Yet some of the most important lessons young people learn take place beyond the classroom. On a football pitch, pupils learn resilience after a difficult result. In a swimming pool, they discover the rewards of discipline and persistence. On a basketball court, they develop communication, teamwork and leadership. These experiences may not appear on an examination transcript, but they often shape the qualities that help young people succeed long after their school years. "Representing Harrow Hong Kong on both the national and international level has become a core part of my identity not only as an athlete but also as a person. Drawing on the 'Harrow Values' of humility, courage and fellowship has allowed me to hone both my skill, passion and grit to overcome any challenge," says Ziyan, Year 13 scholar and award-winning sailing expert. In 2022, Harrow International School Hong Kong embarked on an ambitious journey to construct one of Asia's most comprehensive and progressive Sport and Physical Education programmes. During the 2025-26 academic year, the school fielded more teams across a wider range of sports than any other international school in Hong Kong, and recorded the highest number of students participating in competitive school sport. The sports provision now spans more than 20 sports and 200 teams, with over 1,000 pupils representing the school in competition. These achievements place Harrow Hong Kong at the forefront of sports education in the region and reflect a sustained commitment to participation, opportunity and excellence. Year 13 student, Shannon says: "Being a badminton scholar at Harrow Hong Kong has been one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of my school life. The scholarship has provided me extra personal training, amazing opportunities to represent my school, and a community of talented sports scholars who share my wins and losses along the way. I have learnt life lessons I know I'll carry far beyond school: staying calm under pressure, recovering from setbacks and teamwork." Traditionally, school sport programmes focused on a handful of competitive teams. Today, participation is equally valued, as a pathway to individual growth. At Harrow Hong Kong, pupils can explore traditional sports alongside activities such as fencing, golf and gymnastics, discovering new interests, developing confidence and uncovering talents beyond the classroom. "Whether a student is representing the school on an international stage, learning fundamental movement skills for the first time, or simply discovering the joy of being active alongside friends, every experience contributes to the development of well-rounded, confident and capable young people," says lan Williams, Director of Sport at Harrow Hong Kong. Another notable trend in school sport is the growing emphasis on development frameworks. At Harrow Hong Kong, physical education, games lessons, co-curricular activities and competitive sport have been designed as interconnected experiences that progressively build skills, knowledge and physical literacy from kindergarten to Year 13. The aim is not simply to develop athletes, but to nurture confident, resilient and adaptable young people. "What makes sport at Harrow Hong Kong unique is the balance between participation and performance. There is support for pupils who simply want to stay active, but there are also frameworks for those of us who want to compete at a higher level. Having opportunities to represent the school both locally and internationally has been a highlight of my school journey," says Jordan, Year 13 sport scholar and volleyball coach. Competing overseas requires students to demonstrate independence, adaptability and cultural awareness alongside athletic ability. These opportunities allow pupils to represent their school and city while developing valuable life skills. Pupils now regularly participate in competitions across Asia, utilising the school's membership of such organisations as FOBISIA. Recent highlights include the COBIS Games and AISL Harrow Games. Ultimately, however, the true value of a sports programme cannot be measured solely through medals, trophies or championship titles. Its success is reflected in the confidence of a pupil who discovers a new passion, the friendships formed within a team, the resilience developed through challenge and the lifelong habits that support physical and mental wellbeing. And perhaps that is where the greatest lessons of sport have always existed. Not in the final score, but in the growth that happens along the way.

Things to do, stuff to know! GET SET FOR THE HLG KART RACE More than 100 racers, aged seven to 12, are expected to take to the 150-metre track along the Discovery Bay Road cycle lane on November 21 for the HLG Kart Race. With your place secured (registration closed on October 30), it’s time to get race-day ready! Here’s what to wear, what to pack and how to prepare for the big day. A correctly fitted bike helmet is mandatory, and children are encouraged to bring their own rather than share. Trainers or other suitable closed-toe sports shoes are also essential – flip-flops and other open-toed footwear are not permitted. Gloves are recommended, while knee and elbow pads are optional. All racers must wear the event shirt provided and display their racer number on their arm. Bring lunch and plenty of water to keep energy levels up throughout the heats. Sunscreen, insect repellent and towels are also useful additions. On November 21, arrive at the track 15 to 20 minutes before your allocated race time to complete registration. Your race schedule and payment information will be emailed to you in early November, so keep an eye on your inbox. Finally, make sure you read the rules and regulations at hlgkartrace.com (scan the QR code) before race day. A little preparation goes a long way towards making the experience safe, smooth and fun for everyone! THE BIG PICNIC The BIG Picnic is back, taking place across two stages at Tai Pak Beach on November 21. Look forward to 11 hours of live music, plus a beach bar, food vendors and market stalls. The lineup is filled with standout bands from across Hong Kong, including DB legends Helium3, Powerful Moss, Benzine, Don’t Panic, Naggin’ Eejits and Jay-Walkers. Up to 5,000 people are expected to attend this year. Up to 5,000 people are expected to attend this year; to purchase tickets, head to thebigpicnichk.com. Up to 5,000 people are expected to attend this year; to purchase tickets, head to thebigpicnichk.com. TEAM FEAR CHALLENGE The Team FEAR Challenge returns on November 29, daring kids aged 8 to 17 years to run, coasteer, canoe and rock scramble their way around DB. The event donates over HK$100,000 annually to Youth Outreach Hong Kong, with more than 400 racers expected to take part this year. Enrol by November 26 at team-fear.com. DB 10K CHARITY RUN Organised by the community for the community, the DB 10K Charity Run takes place on November 7, with everyone invited to take part. The road race is open to runners, walkers and families alike, so bring your strollers - and your pets! This year's proceeds go to non-profit animal welfare charity Hong Kong Paws Foundation. Enrol by November 4 at db10k.com. MOOLA MEAT I QUALITY FOR LESS Meat lovers across DB and Lantau can shop at moolameat.com, with daily delivery and no extra charges. Moola Meat's co-founders, James and James, aim to make quality meat, fish, seafood and dairy more affordable for families, with products averaging around 40% less than supermarket prices. Enjoy free delivery on your first order of HK$200 or more, and on subsequent orders over HK$600. Planning ahead for the holidays? Pre-order your Thanksgiving or Christmas US turkey at moolameat.com for amazing value. TRANSLANTAU BY UTMB Scheduled for November 13 to 15 this year, TransLantau™ by UTMB® is one of Hong Kong's most thrilling endurance races, providing runners with the chance to glory in nature as they conquer Lantau's challenging peaks and coastal trails. The event offers four distances for athletes of all skill levels: 15K, 27K, 45K and 104K. Race registration is now closed but, if you want a taste of the action, you can sign up as a sweeper, marshal, forerunner, course marker or start/ finish point helper. Visit translantau.utmb.world. Dates For Your Diary NOV 28 & 29 | SHOP THE DB WEEKEND MARKET in DB South Plaza from 11am to 6pm. Visit handmadehongkong.com. NOV 29 | JOIN A BEACH CLEAN-UP! Meet at the gate to Nim Shue Wan at 2pm. Email dana@plasticfreeseas.org. TUESDAYS | RECYCLE EVERYTHING at the Green@Community collection point from 10am to 1pm and 2.30pm to 5.30pm. ALL MONTH | DONATE PRELOVED FURNITURE to people in need through DB Mothers & Friends. To arrange for pick-up, visit FB @dbmf.collection. LYC BOAT SHOW The fourth LYC Boat Show, themed Luxury at Sea, is being held from November 6 to 8, from 10am to 6pm, at Lantau Yacht Club. The show has earned a stellar reputation, and brings together prestigious yacht and lifestyle brands, dealers and yachting associations. Discover magnificent superyachts, the latest in boating design and innovation, and exclusive luxury lifestyle experiences. To find out more and register to attend, email explore@lantauyachtclub.com. PROVERSE AUTUMN RECEPTION Long-term DB residents Dr Gillian Bickley and the late Dr Verner Bickley, MBE, founded the International Proverse Prizes for writing previously unpublished in English. Gillian and the team at Proverse are delighted to announce the Proverse Autumn Reception being held on November 19, from 7pm to 9.30pm, at the Helena May. You can join them for literary prize announcements and awards, and author talks, plus cocktail-style mixing and mingling, a canapés buffet and cash bar. Prior registration is essential via shorturl.at/gFKU9. DBIS ALUMNI EVENT Discovery Bay International School is hosting a special gathering for alumni this coming January. Student, teacher or staff - if you spent time at DBIS, you helped build the school's incredible community! Head down to the Globe Theatre, DBIS Main Campus, on January 6 from 6pm to 8pm, to enjoy drinks and nibbles, catch up with old friends and share favourite memories of your time at the school. Register your attendance at dbis.hk/alumnireunion2027 or scan the QR code. INTER-ISLAND FESTIVAL The third Inter-island Festival is taking place across five consecutive weekends from November 1 to 29 in Cheung Chau, Chi Ma Wan, Mui Wo and Peng Chau. Featuring over 50 exciting programmes, this edition brings together arts, cultural creations and thematic research projects to reimagine the future of Hong Kong's islands. Register for workshops, guided tours and performances at interislandfestival.live. ST NICHOLAS VISITS On December 5, local nonprofit One World Spirit Association (OWS) is bringing St Nicholas to DB homes for a special visit. The third-century saint who inspired the modern-day Santa Claus will meet children aged two to six years, sharing a heartwarming tradition that celebrates cultural heritage, kindness and the spirit of giving. Parents are asked to provide a present for Santa to give their kids, and to make a small donation to support OWS's volunteer work. Fill the form at shorturl.at/ONdbH to enrol by November 28. Young people aged 14 to 18 years, who are interested in helping out as junior assistants can WhatsApp 6219 3817. HK YOGA: FIND YOUR BALANCE Dedicated to nurturing body, mind and spirit, HK Yoga offers a simple approach to a traditional yogic practice rooted in ancient teachings. The journey begins with developing flexibility throughout the body, with the understanding that youth, beauty, wellbeing and longevity are simply beneficial side effects on the path to spiritual development. Ultimately, the aim is to achieve true happiness, both physically and spiritually. With a varied programme of daily classes, there's something for every level, from dynamic flow to relaxing stretching. Through opportunities to connect, learn and unwind, HK Yoga provides a welcoming space to step away from the demands of everyday life, reconnect with yourself and discover a healthier sense of balance. A GIFT FOR YOUR FIRST STEP "At HK Yoga, we believe the best way to begin is simply to begin," says founder and E-RYT 500-certified yoga teacher Maxim Gagarin. "That's why this November every new student receives one full week of unlimited group yoga classes - entirely free. "Whether you're drawn to strength, stillness or breath, our studio is open to you. All we ask is that you arrive with an open mind." Begin in three easy steps: Register in the MINDBODY app Book your class Show up and flow with us This offer is available to new students throughout November only. Space is limited. Reserve your spot today. THE SCHEDULE (GROUP CLASSES) 8.30am to 9.30am daily 9.45am to 10.45am daily 5.00pm to 6.00pm weekdays 6.30pm to 7.30pm weekdays To find out more and claim your gift, WhatsApp 6113 6770 and drop by the studio at LG 2, Office Block 2, DB North Plaza.

Ham and Cheese Crêpes Serves 4 Using an electric beater or hand whisk, combine the flour, eggs and milk with a big pinch of salt in a large bowl. Heat a 20cm frying pan until very hot, then pour in a little oil. Swirl the pan so the oil creates an even covering. Ladle in a spoonful of the pancake mixture and tip the pan so the mixture spreads in an even layer. Cook for 30 seconds, then flip and scatter with some cheese and ham. Cook until the cheese is melting. Add a crack of black pepper and fold. Keep on a plate covered with foil in a warm oven while you make the remaining crêpes.

Harvey Law Group explores St. Kitts and Nevis' pioneering Citizenship by Investment Program, revealing its unrivalled longevity, powerful passport and advantageous tax regime Continuing our exploration of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) in the Caribbean, we shift our focus to the crown jewel of investment migration. For high-net-worth individuals seeking undisputed prestige and a legacy program, St. Kitts and Nevis is an attractive option. An architect of the industry, St. Kitts and Nevis has the world’s longest-running CBI program, in operation since 1984. The twin-island nation is defined by striking geographical contrasts. Beyond its golden sands, natural wonders include Mount Liamuiga, a towering dormant volcano cloaked in rainforest. Along the coast, the dramatic Southeast Peninsula overlooks the shimmering waters between the two islands, while historic landmarks like UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress stand as enduring reminders of St. Kitts and Nevis’ strategic importance through the centuries. These historic and natural panoramas lend St. Kitts and Nevis an elite air of permanence that combines deep-rooted heritage, colonial-era architecture and the ultimate Caribbean lifestyle. DONATION OR REAL-ESTATE INVESTMENT Similar to the frameworks offered by other Caribbean nations, St. Kitts and Nevis divides its entry paths into a straightforward sovereign contribution and a real-estate asset investment. To guarantee absolute security for investors’ wealth, the financial transfer takes place only after the Citizenship by Investment Unit grants official pre-approval. The first option is a non-refundable contribution to the Sustainable Island State Contribution, a national fund designed to transition the federation into a green, financially independent economy. Under the strict regional baseline pricing structure, the minimum donation is set at US$250,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four. This remains the premier choice for families looking for a fast, transactional route with zero long-term management overheads. Alternatively, applicants can invest in top-tier resort real estate. In St. Kitts and Nevis, the baseline for an approved fractional hotel or condo share sits at US$325,000, with a sevenyear mandatory holding period before resale is permitted. While this represents a longer holding period than other Caribbean CBI programs, it gives investors access to one of the most resilient, high-occupancy, luxury hospitality corridors in the Americas. To protect foreign capital from market volatility, only highly vetted, state-endorsed developments are made available to investors. One such is Park Hyatt St. Kitts (Christophe Harbour): a worldrenowned five-star resort offering fractional shares from US$325,000, it pairs a globally recognised luxury hospitality brand name with proven rental yields. FAMILY, WEALTH AND WORLDWIDE ACCESS A St. Kitts and Nevis passport functions as a powerful global mobility asset, granting visafree or visa-on-arrival passage to more than 150 destinations. This includes unrestricted access to the United Kingdom, the European Schengen Area, Switzerland, Singapore and Hong Kong – the strongest passport network among all the Caribbean citizenship programs. While the Schengen Area remains fully visa-free, Ireland recently revoked visa-free access for St. Kitts and Nevis (and Dominica). Other Caribbean nations, such as Antigua and Grenada, have access to Ireland. The federation provides structured parameters for long-term, multi-generational planning. Eligible dependents include a legal spouse; children up to the age of 30, who are fully dependent on the main applicant; dependent parents and parentsin- law over the age of 55. This reliable framework allows families to anchor their ancestral heritage securely under a single application. For modern wealth creators, the legal environment in St. Kitts and Nevis serves as a fortress for capital preservation. The federation maintains a completely tax-free regime for its citizens, imposing zero personal income tax on worldwide revenues, alongside a total exemption from capital gains, global wealth, gift, or inheritance taxes, ensuring your financial footprint is entirely optimised. THE APPLICATION PROCESS Every application dossier must be prepared and filed exclusively by a government-appointed authorised professional, such as Harvey Law Group. The complete administrative journey typically takes four to six months. In a significant regulatory tightening designed to safeguard its platinum standing, St. Kitts and Nevis requires all applicants aged 16 and older to complete a secure virtual interview and mandatory biometric enrolment before receiving their electronic passports and naturalization certificates. While these updated security measures represent the most rigorous due diligence standards in the Caribbean, they reflect the federation’s unwavering commitment to international compliance and passport longevity. Filing an application under these elite parameters ensures that your second nationality rests on the most secure foundation possible. For discerning investors searching for maximum international prestige, St. Kitts and Nevis provides an unmatched proposition: the world’s longest-running CBI program, the region’s strongest passport and an absolute tax haven. Investing in a branded five-star resort share or a private peninsula estate represents far more than an offshore transaction – it is the ultimate acquisition of sovereign security, legacy protection and lifestyle status. Note that the ‘Caribbean Five’ are exploring a harmonised future approach to physical residency or in-person verification. While this remains a high-level concept which could take years to be implemented, we still recommend applicants intending to move forward to apply without delay. Early indications suggest that any future requirement will likely be highly manageable, such as a rumoured 30-day aggregate stay over a course of five years. Individuals interested in gaining CBI in St. Kitts and Nevis, find professional legal advice invaluable. Harvey Law Group brings over 32 years of immigration expertise with offices in 20 countries globally. Our specialisation extends to the Caribbean, and we offer clients clear, professional guidance with each step of their journey. Reach out to us at contact@harveylawcorporation.com.

How to order like a local at one of Hong Kong’s greatest culinary institutions PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew J.C. Spires Waiters weave between tables carrying towers of milk tea, orders are shouted across the room in rapid-fire Cantonese, cutlery arrives in metal tins and food is inhaled at Olympic speed. One minute you’re staring at a menu offering macaroni soup, French toast and pork chop spaghetti on the same page, and the next you’re wondering why your iced lemon tea costs more than the hot one. Welcome to one of Hong Kong’s greatest and best-loved culinary institutions. A cha chaan teng – literally ‘tea restaurant’ – is the city’s answer to the diner, café and canteen rolled into one. Fast, af fordable and unmistakably local, these neighbourhood eateries are woven into daily life across Hong Kong. Office workers grab breakfast before the MTR rush, retirees linger over milk tea and newspapers, students order instant noodles after school and entire families meet for Sunday lunch beneath spinning ceiling fans and fluorescent lights. For first-time visitors, cha chaan tengs can feel wonderfully baffling. For locals, they signify comfort, nostalgia and routine. And for Hong Kong itself, they represent something deeper: the city’s unique East-meets-West identity served on a sometimes chipped ceramic plate. Cha chaan tengs first appeared in post-WW11 Hong Kong, when Western food carried a certain glamour but remained out of reach for much of the population. Local cafés began creating af fordable Cantonese interpretations of European and British dishes using local ingredients and catering to local tastes. The result was not authentic Western cuisine, but something entirely new. You’ll find spaghetti with fried eggs sitting beside Cantonese noodle soups, baked rice dishes next to club sandwiches, and French toast with condensed milk. It shouldn’t work. But somehow, it absolutely does. The food itself became a reflection of Hong Kong culture: practical, fast-moving, hybrid and inventive. Much like the city, cha chaan tengs absorbed outside influences and transformed them into something distinctly local. There’s an art to navigating a cha chaan teng, and regulars know the system instinctively. First: do not linger indecisively at the menu. During busy periods, staff expect customers to order quickly, eat quickly and move on. This isn’t brunch culture. Nobody is encouraging you to spend three leisurely hours discussing your feelings over avocado toast. Second: sharing tables is completely normal. If the restaurant is crowded, you may be seated opposite total strangers. This arrangement, daap toi in Cantonese, is simply part of Hong Kong dining culture. Everyone ignores each other politely while concentrating on their food. Third: the waiters are probably not being rude. Service in traditional cha chaan tengs is famously brisk, efficient and occasionally terrifying to newcomers. Orders are barked, bills arrive swiftly and there is little appetite for lengthy menu consultations. But beneath the apparent gruffness lies a highly efficient system designed to keep customers moving through tiny spaces at maximum speed. And finally: hot drinks are usually cheaper than iced ones. Ordering a cold milk tea often comes with a leng zai – an iced drink surcharge that continues to confuse newcomers and irritate everyone else. No two cha chaan tengs are exactly alike, but certain dishes appear almost everywhere. Firstly, there’s the iconic bo lo yau (pineapple buns): despite the name, there is no pineapple involved. The ‘pineapple’ refers to the sugary golden crust, which resembles the fruit’s textured exterior. Crispy on top and soft inside, pineapple buns are a staple of cha chaan tengs. Add a thick slab of butter in the middle and you have one of the city’s greatest comfort foods. Tung fan tong (macaroni soup) is perhaps the most confusing item for first-timers. Hong Kong breakfast macaroni typically arrives in a light broth with ham, sausage or fried egg. To outsiders, it may look like something invented during a supermarket shortage but generations of Hongkongers grew up eating it before school and continue to crave it decades later. Guk zyu paa faan (baked pork chop rice) is another cha chaan teng classic. Fried pork chop is placed atop fried rice, before being covered in tomato sauce and melted cheese and baked in the oven. It’s messy, comforting and unapologetically heavy – exactly what many of us want after a long day. Sai do si (Hong Kong French toast), meanwhile, is deep-fried, stuffed with peanut butter and drenched in syrup and condensed milk. It’s less breakfast and more glorious sugar-fuelled engineering project. Breakfast and lunch sets are also hugely popular. Instead of ordering individual dishes, customers choose a combination meal that usually includes a main, drink and side. It’s efficient, af fordable and central to cha chaan teng culture. And then there are the classic cha chaan teng beverages of which Hong Kong milk tea is the undisputed king. It’s made from strong black tea filtered through a cloth sack, hence the nickname si maat naai caa (silk stocking milk tea). Mixed with evaporated rather than fresh milk, it produces a rich, smooth and intensely caffeinated drink that locals take extremely seriously. Family feuds erupt over which café serves the best version. Can’t decide between coffee and tea? Hong Kong solved that problem decades ago. Yin yeung blends coffee with milk tea into a surprisingly addictive drink that sounds terrible but tastes excellent. Like many cha chaan teng inventions, it perfectly captures Hong Kong’s talent for blending cultures together. And now to decoding the language: part of the cha chaan teng experience is learning the shorthand. Menus often feature abbreviated Cantonese phrases, hybrid English terms and mysterious letter-and-number combinations that make perfect sense to the staff – and absolutely none to newcomers. All this leaves first-timers utterly lost. Regulars, meanwhile, order in seconds. More than just food, part of the charm lies in the atmosphere. Many traditional cha chaan tengs feel frozen in time, with faded tiled walls, old ceiling fans, neon signs and menus unchanged for decades. Others have modernised, but still preserve the essential rhythm of the experience: clattering plates, shouted orders and endless cups of tea. Some of Hong Kong’s most famous examples have become attractions in their own right. Lan Fong Yuen in Central is celebrated for its milk tea and condensed milk buns, while Kam Wah Cafe in Mong Kok draws queues for its pineapple buns. Kam Fung Restaurant in Wanchai remains beloved for its silky scrambled eggs and retro interiors. Often the most memorable cha chaan teng is simply the one nearest your apartment, office or MTR stop. In DB, with Island Café closed, there’s nothing even resembling a cha chaan teng, but Tung Chung is better served, with the likes of Man Wah Restaurant at Fu Tung Plaza and Yung Koi in Ma Wan Chung Village. Both will give you the real soundtrack of cha chaan teng life: shouted orders, laminated menus, lightning-fast service and all that totally addictive comfort food. To understand Hong Kong, you could visit luxury malls, rooftop bars and Michelin-starred restaurants. But sooner or later, you should also sit down in a cha chaan teng, order a milk tea and a pineapple bun, and experience the city the way generations of locals have always done.

From a handful of residents to a community of more than 19,000, Discovery Bay has undergone a remarkable transformation. Ray Au looks back at the people, places and changes that shaped the home we know today PHOTOGRAPHY (2026) B Y Andrew J.C. Spires It may surprise you to know that in the late 1950s, Discovery Bay was a cattle ranch complete with a slaughterhouse. It was owned and inhabited by just one family, who have elected to remain anonymous. With beef supplies from mainland China severely curtailed, importing cattle to meet Hong Kong’s demand for fresh meat proved a lucrative business. The livestock were imported from the Northern Territory in Australia, and unloaded at DB Pier. At this time, DB had little by way of a beach, just a rocky stretch of shoreline beside the pier. (Tai Pak Wan, in case you didn’t know, is man-made; it was created in the early 1980s, using 300,000 cubic metres of sand.) The sea was crystal-clear in the 1960s and teeming with fish, even close to the shore. There were pig farms on the hills – back then DB was as rural as the rest of Lantau, and an undeveloped Lantau at that. Understanding how DB came to be a residential resort involves playing a game of Chinese Whispers; there’s a lot of rumour to sift through. The original owners and the Cha Group and even the Hong Kong Government are said to be key players. It’s clear that the owners devised a plan in the 1970s for a low-rise, traffic-free development, and that this never got off the ground. The associated scandal involves debts to the Soviet-government-controlled Moscow Narodny Bank, legal battles with the Hong Kong Government and just possibly a little Cold War espionage. The head of the family who originally owned DB, who came up with the first plan for its development, is said to be depicted in John Le Carré’s spy novel The Honourable Schoolboy (1977). The honourable schoolboy of the title is Gerald Westerby, a British spy sent to Hong Kong. One thing’s for sure, by 1977 DB was in the hands of Dr Cha Chi-ming, the late founder and chairman of HKR International. Unlike other large Hong Kong developments, everything in DB was built with private money, including the infrastructure. Even the government-operated fire and police stations were built by the developer. In 1979, work started on the reservoir, core infrastructure and DB’s first proper ty project. Phase 1 Beach, Headland and Parkridge villages was launched in 1980. Back then, the asking price for a one-bedroom apartment at Parkridge was around HK$300,000; today, starter Parkridge flats sell for upwards of HK$3 million. In 1984, Phase 2 Midvale Village launched, and in 1986 Phase 3 Headland, Parkvale, Hillgrove and Parkridge villages. It’s incredible to think that DB now comprises 18 residential phases, with One Toscana forming part of Phase 19-1. From the get-go, resort-style living was prioritised. To this day, greenery makes up two-thirds of DB’s 650 hectares. DB was a traffic-free zone in the 1980s – residents got about by internal bus, on foot or by golf cart; there was no external bus service, certainly no taxis. For DB’s first residents, ferries were the only external transport link to the city, running between DB South and Central. The service was not 24-hour: the last ferry home on Friday and Saturday nights was at 12.30am. Some may also remember the hovercrafts, known as sardine cans or submarines, because they were practically underwater when packed with passengers and supplies for the few businesses that were in DB at the time. Old timers recall playing cards on the way to Central – the trip took so long. If you get annoyed when marine refuse causes the ferries to stall, spare a thought for the hovercraft passengers back then. If a vessel couldn’t be fixed at sea, another would come to rescue the passengers, which involved a pretty hairy transfer – commuters had to walk across a plank from one boat to the other. The round-the-clock ferry service launched in 1986, and it has been a real boon, especially for those who recall the long dash down Blake’s Pier on a Friday or Saturday night, hoping to make the 12.30am ferry. Now, of course, we also have external buses to bring us home from Sunny Bay and Tung Chung, as well as taxis, which currently serve DB North only. Shopping and dining have come a long way, too. We’ve gone from one store – DB’s first supermarket, a small PARKnSHOP, opened in DB South near the ferry pier in 1984 – to a shopping mall, two plazas lined with shops and restaurants, and even a hotel. Until the opening of D’Deck and its many restaurants, there were few options to eat out in DB. The Residents Club (now DB Recreation Club) opened in 1982 and offered one of the few (and reputedly not very good) dining options in those early years. At this time, DB’s only other easily accessible eatery was a dai pai dong in Nim Shue Wan, frequented by many. If you wanted to find anyone (in DB) on a Friday or Saturday night, that’s where you looked first – people brought their own wine and paid around HK$35 each for 15 dishes or so. From the get-go, DB attracted families but there was little in the way of organised entertainment for youngsters – no spor t s pitch and certainly no ice rink. The first young residents were a tightknit bunch who created their own fun – joyriding in their parents’ golf carts (which, local legend has it, explains why golf carts now have two keys), and hanging out at the rockpools, the barbecue pits (now La Costa) and at a DIY skate park (now Crestmont). Recognising the community’s need for quality international education, the developer opened Discovery Bay International School (DBIS) in January 1983, just a month after the first residents moved in. The school was initially housed at DB Residents Club with just three students and two teachers. Student enrolment increased dramatically by the start of the new academic year in 1983, and the school moved to its current campus with 69 students. Today, DBIS educates around 1,200 students, from kindergarten through to secondary school and Sixth Form. S.K.H. Wei Lun Primary School was founded in 1993 and built with funding from the Wai Lun Foundation. It is one of the schools under the St. John’s Primary Schools Board of Supervisors and is currently the only government-subsidised, full-day primary school in DB. At its inception, the school had only 63 students; now, the student population is nearly 500. Plans to set up Discovery College (DC) as one of ESF’s first private schools began in 1999, and it opened at Yi Pak Bay in August 2008 with 450 students. A private independent school, DC now offers both primary and secondary education on one campus to some 1,400 students. Despite decades of development, DB retains its village feel and strong sense of community. It has always attracted people from around the world, drawn by its green open spaces, outdoor lifestyle and multicultural mix. Residents are also active in making their voices heard, raising community concerns with the developer and the government. After all, a community is more than a place to live – it’s a place where people connect, understand and accept one another.

What's happening across Hong Kong VICTORIA HARBOUR RACE On November 15, marine traffic pauses as thousands of swimmers race across Victoria Harbour from Wanchai to Tsim Sha Tsui, against the iconic skyline. Watch the action from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade near the Star Ferry Terminal for the finish, or Wanchai's Golden Bauhinia Square for the 7.30am start. Both competitive racers and leisure swimmers are set to take part. Find out more at hkharbourrace.com. INDIA BY THE BAY India by the Bay returns to the Asia Society Hong Kong Center from November 26 to 29 for its 11th edition, themed Heritage, Reimagined. The festival celebrates Indian culture through music, dance, literature, cinema, fashion, textiles, food and wellness. Highlights include an opening-night conversation with author Twinkle Khanna and events for young readers. Find tickets at indiabythebay.com. HONG KONG JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL The 2026 Hong Kong Jewish Film Festival runs from November 7 to 15 at Golden Scene Cinema and Emperor Cinemas. The festival opens with Lucky Star (La Bonne Étoile), a wartime comedy-drama set in Nazi-occupied France. Find film schedules and purchase tickets at hkjff.org. ARTS IN THE PARK The culmination of Standard Chartered's annual youth education programme, this year's Arts in the Park takes place from November 14 to 15 in Victoria Park. The family-orientated carnival teatures a full calendar of stage events, workshops and art exhibitions, and is themed around classic fairytales. Expect 17 interactive arts booths, live performances, storytelling sessions, African drumming workshops and an exhibition of more than 900 artworks. Admission is free. ATSUKO OKATSUKA LIVE! Award-winning comedian and viral sensation Atsuko Okatsuka brings her eccentric humour and infectious energy back to AsiaWorld-Expo on November 22 with The Big Bowl Tour. The LA-based stand-up star blends family stories, immigrant experiences and everyday absurdities with sharp wit and audience interaction. Fans, dust off your bowl-cut wigs! Purchase tickets at Ticketflap.

Feed your appetite for Chinese food, culture and narratives CRAZY RICH ASIANS, 2013 Food is at the heart of Kevin Kwan’s wildly entertaining tale of Singapore’s super-rich. Rachel’s introduction to hawker culture takes readers through chilli crab, Hainanese chicken rice, satay and laksa, while the scene in which the Youngs gather to make popiah provides a glimpse of tradition and family life behind the glamour. GOODBYE CHINATOWN, 2026 Kit Fan’s latest novel follows a Cantonese family between Hong Kong and London, with food woven through the story as a language of migration and identity. Inspired by her father’s kitchen, Amber opens a restaurant in London, where her East-meets- West creations become a celebration of heritage and new beginnings. GWEILO, 2004 Martin Booth’s memoir of growing up in 1950s Hong Kong is packed with the flavours of a city that fascinated him from the moment he arrived. At his first lunch, seven-year-old Booth is introduced to prawns and Coca-Cola and told to accept any dish he is offered, including hundred-year-old eggs and stir-fried water beetles. SHARK’S FIN AND SICHUAN PEPPER, 2008 Fuchsia Dunlop’s fascinating memoir charts her journey into the world of Chinese cuisine, as she learns to cook at a Sichuan culinary school, and from home chefs and restaurateurs. Discovering the region’s fiery, fragrant and sometimes startling flavours, she is introduced to a cuisine far beyond the familiar Chinese dishes of the West. THE BORROWED, 2014 Chan Ho-Kei’s gripping crime novel takes readers from Hong Kong’s police stations and triad underworlds to cha chaan tengs, coffee shops and covered markets. Scenes involving food are central to the action – wanted criminals grab takeaway dim sum, office workers slip out for illicit afternoon tea – bringing the city and its changing character vividly to life. THE JOY LUCK CLUB, 1989 Amy Tan’s moving novel is steeped in the food and traditions of Chinese-American family life. The book opens with a mahjong gathering, where the Joy Luck Club women meet, eat, talk and reminisce about their lives in China. There’s also the memorable crab dinner, where the women explore family dynamics, expectations and favouritism.