One of the most exciting aspects of Pilates is that anyone can do it, and everyone can achieve amazing results. Georgie Rawson of Embody in DB Plaza provides the lowdown. PHOTOS COURTESY OF Embody & by Richard Gordon – www.richardgordonphotography.com PILATES IS A FORM OF LOW-IMPACT EXERCISE that aims to strengthen muscles while improving postural alignment and flexibility. You can do it on a mat or on an apparatus like the reformer – we use both at Embody. The reformer creates tension through the use of springs to increase resistance as you work out. PILATES IMPROVES FLEXIBILITY, MOBILITY and balance. It is all about precise, slow and controlled movements that lengthen and strengthen all your muscles enabling them to work in harmony with one another. But, to answer the question we get asked constantly – no, Pilates is not yoga, it’s actually pretty different! PILATES STRENGTHENS YOUR BONES which is especially important as you start to age. The low-impact, weight-bearing exercises are gentle on the bones and joints, and may improve bone density. Research suggests that this type of exercise can help ward off agerelated conditions such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. PILATES ENHANCES BODY AWARENESS , coordination and the ability to concentrate. When practiced regularly, it can make you move with greater control, efficiency and strength. If your body awareness has decreased (this can happen with age or injury), Pilates can be an effective way to manage and relieve related lower back pain. PILATES IMPROVES ATHLETIC ABILITY in 99% (really 100%) of sports! We have one client who comes in to work on core strength for his golf swing, and another to improve her ankle mobility for trail running. Pilates balances the body by strengthening weak muscles, mobilising what’s rigid and lengthening tight areas. This, in turn, enables your body to react quicker and prevent injury. PILATES IS SUITABLE FOR PREGNANT AND NEW MUMS , those going through rehabilitation and anyone who is new to fitness. Embody instructors follow the Stott Pilates method which is one of the safest and most effective Pilates methods available. A contemporary take on Pilates, it incorporates modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation. PILATES DECREASES BACK PAIN by creating a strong core and better posture – it focuses on the muscles that hold everything in place. Our classes have a strong emphasis on breathwork, and correct abdominal and pelvic floor engagement. The result is a decrease in back pain and you get a better posture to go with – double whammy!Embody offers personal training and small group classes in Pilates mat and reformer, yoga, HIIT, Barre and Zumba. Instructors specialise in injury prevention, pre- and post-natal and mobility. For more on the DB Plaza studio and to make a booking, call/ WhatsApp 6624 8712 or visit www.embody.hk .

DB-based, certified Zumba instructor (ZIN) Dionina de Guzman shows Kayli Liebenberg how easy it is to dance your way to fitnessZUMBA FEELS LIKE A DANCE PARTY rather than a workout which is why so many people love it. It was created by a Columbian, an aerobic teacher called Alberto Pérez, so the music is mainly Latin – Cumbia, Merengue, Salsa, Reggaeton – with some modern tunes thrown in. IF YOU JOIN AN OFFICIAL ZUMBA CLASS in any part of the world, you should be able to follow along. This is because licensed instructors all pay a monthly fee to receive around 13 different songs each with their own choreography. Class lasts from 50 minutes to an hour. YOU CAN TAKE A CLASS AT ANY AGE: there’s Zumba Gold, a lower-intensity version of the typical Zumba class, for the over 50s and there are Zumba classes designed specifically for kids. The basic class is open to everyone: all ages, fitness levels and genders. IF YOU’RE DOING ZUMBA TO KEEP FIT, you should be doing it a minimum of two times a week. An aerobic form of exercise, it improves flexibility, coordination and stamina, while also enhancing balance and agility. High- and low-intensity intervals ensure a cardio fat-burning workout. IF YOU’RE A BEGINNER, you need to listen to your body. Some people can dance for an hour, nonstop, but if you feel tired after one or two songs, take it easy and rest. And always do your warm-up first: a minimum eight-minute stretch, along with warm-up dances to three songs. THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF ZUMBA: there’s Zumba Toning where you’re dancing while holding dumbbells. There’s Zumba Steps, Aqua Zumba and some classes where you’re using a chair. IT HELPS IF YOU HAVE NATURAL RHYTHM but the steps are designed so that everyone can follow along very easily. Instructors gives cues, like hand signals, to show you which direction to go. A FULL-BODY DANCE-FITNESS WORKOUT, Zumba tones almost every muscle group. You use your core, arms and legs; there are a lot of squats and lunges, so it’s a good glute workout. You also use your hips a lot. You need to be conscious of the muscles you’re engaging when you’re doing a move to get the most benefit. ZUMBA MAKES YOU FEEL EMPOWERED and stress-free. The workout is fun and exhilarating, and you get the chance to meet like-minded people. It’s also a major confidence booster because regardless of your shape or size, whether you’re introverted or extroverted, instructors make sure you feel comfortable and empowered. Dionina de Guzman of Zumba with Dionina provides Zumba classes at the YogaUp space in DB North Plaza (1/F, Unit 7) every day, 11.45am and 1.30pm, for dance enthusiasts aged 12 and up. A fully licensed Zumba instructor (ZIN), Dionina also provides subsidised classes for migrant domestic workers. To find out more, call 9317 6793, email dionina1299@yahoo.com or visit Instagram @zumbadionina.

How much do you know about the month of September? BY Kayli Liebenberg 01. Children’s author Roald Dahl was born on September 13, 1916: what didn’t he write? A. Peter Pan B. Matilda C. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory 02. What is the name of September’s full moon? A. Harvest Moon B. Pumpkin Moon C. Cucumber Moon 03. Which building in NYC was destroyed on September 11, 2001 as a result of terrorist attacks? A. St Patrick’s Cathedral B. World Trade Center C. Chrysler Building 04. Which singer/ actress was born on September 1, 1996? A. Zendaya B. Selena Gomez C. Miley Cyrus 05. The Battle of Kowloon happened in September of which year? A. 1820 B. 1839 C. 1920 06. Taylor Swift’s September is a cover of which band’s 1978 soul classic? A. Earth, Wind & Fire B. Kool & the Gang C. Sly & the Family Stone 07. What is September’s birthstone? A. Quartz B. Sapphire C. Black Opal 08. September is National Rice Month in which country? A. China B. Thailand C. The United States 09. Which album did the Beatles release on September 26, 1969? A. Yellow Submarine B. Abbey Road C. Let it Be 10. The word September comes from the Latin word septem: what does it mean? A. Silkworm B. Snake C. Seven 11. Which Jewish festival begins on September 22 this year? A. Rosh Hashanah B. Yom Kippur C. Sukkot 12. What are September’s zodiac signs? A. Scorpio and Sagittarius B. Virgo and Libra C. Aries and Gemini 13. When was film director Guy Ritchie born? A. September 10, 1967 B. September 10, 1968 C. September 10, 1970 14. Which Wiccan festival is celebrated in September? A. Lughnasadh B. Mabon C. Samhain 15. What did Mao Zedong die of on September 9, 1976? A. Alzheimer’s disease B. Cancer C. Heart disease 16. Which TV sitcom debuted on NBC on September 22, 1994? A. Friends B. Frasier C. Seinfeld 17. Which album did American rock band REM release on September 26, 1994? A. Murmur B. Monster C. New Adventures in Hi-Fi 18. It’s World Peace Day on September 21: who established it? A. United Nations B. US Peace Corps C. John Lennon 19. Which UK music event is held annually in September? A. Glyndebourne Festival B. The Last Night of the Proms C. Glastonbury Festival 20. Which novel did American author Stephen King release on September 5, 2023? A. Carrie B. Christine C. Holly

Launched in 2015 by Harvey Law Group’s Managing Partner Jean-François Harvey, the HLG Kart Race turns 10 in November. Take a look at how the event has evolved over the years Launched in 2015 by Harvey Law Group’s Managing Partner Jean-François Harvey, the HLG Kart Race turns 10 in November. Take a look at how the event has evolved over the years The race is divided into age group categories, so the kids race against their peers. While racers can choose to construct their own karts, and compete in the freestyle category, with or without a parent riding pillion, most are provided by HLG. HLG karts are built with custom-made parts thanks to the event’s main sponsor Milwaukee. Martin Blondeau, a DB-based pilot and aviation engineer, has been a major contributor to all the technical aspects of the race – the karts and ramp – from day one. HLG consistently supports Heep Hong Society, a local charity dedicated to providing training, education and support services to children with diverse abilities – such as autism and dyslexia – and their families. Rules of Engagement! Founder Jean-François Harvey shares some race strategy and kart-handling tips ahead of the 10th HLG Kart Race in November “All the HLG karts are the same; they all have the same wheels, the same steering system. As long as you know how to drive left and right, you will be fine" “If you are making your own kart, the maximum width is 91 centimetres, and the minimum distance between the front and rear axle is 72 centimetres. Freestyle karts must be capable of being steered, they need to have a braking system and they are limited to gravity power (no propelling mechanisms)" “Parents should know that participant safety is paramount. Competitors are required to wear properly fitted bike helmets, closed-toe shoes and race shirts. They are advised to wear long trousers and gloves" “Racers are advised to keep their foot off the brake as much as they dare. Ideally, you should brake only after crossing the finish line" “Staying calm and steady is very important. It’s quite something to go down that eight-foot ramp. Then the track goes down quite fast all the way to Seabee Lane. Some courage is necessary, especially in the first heat. Self-confidence is key" “Parents make up the bulk of the race committee, and each kart is checked and serviced throughout the race. Most of the people who provide sponsorship or volunteer to help out on race day are DBers. The event is put on for the community by the community, and we rely on Hong Kong Resort Company Ltd and City Management to make it happen" "Success in this race comes down to maintaining speed and avoiding unnecessary turns. You need to steer your kart to the finish in a straight line, as much as possible. Every time you make a turn, you lose speed, so the key is to keep to a straight line" A strong turnout is expected next month – you can email kartrace@harveylawcorporation.com to book your child’s spot

Most couch-to-5K programmes are nine weeks long. Follow Andrew Spires’ advice and you’ll be running a 10K in eight PHOTOS COURTESY OF Juno Spires & Unsplash A shark could swim faster than me, but I could probably run faster than a shark. So in a triathlon, it would all come down to who is the better cyclist. I can run faster than a shark, but not much else. In a race with the tortoise and the hare, I’d finish a comfortable last. I recently attended a parent-child relay for my daughter’s sports day in the wonderful Tsing Yi sports stadium. I lined up against the other parents and quietly fancied myself in the top two, or at least a medal finisher. I came fifth out of six runners. One of the mums took a video of the race from the bleachers and sent it on. I looked like my legs were held on with pipe cleaners. It was time to do something about it, not least due to my daughter’s look of dissatisfaction. No dad wants that look… My mate Alan is a wonder. Every day, regardless of whether he’s been out until 2am drinking tequila out of another man’s belly button, he’ll wake up at 6am and go for a 5km run. Alan is a legend, so when he suggested I try an Action Asia Event’s trail race, who was I to say no? Little did I know that all I had to do was run 15km in the October heat, with a swift 3km sprint at the start, then a scramble up the Ngong Ping 360 Rescue Trail’s 550 metres of elevation. After traversing a mountainside with vertigo-inducing views, I’d head back down a 1:13 hill that ’s slippery and pushes your toenails so hard into your shoes that they fall off. The toenails, not the shoes. Obviously, I wasn’t going to undertake such an adventure without full planning. I have a wife and kids to think about, so I did the only thing any self-respecting newbie runner does. I bought some shoes. After consulting endless running blogs (I implore you not to go down that rabbit hole), I ended up with a great pair of HK$390 Asics. There is usually a deal to be had in Citygate mall if you’re willing to dig about. Next step was to get out there and make a start. This proved harder than I thought it would be. When you work from home and don’t have a helper, time becomes a valuable commodity, and there was always something that needed doing first before I could lace up the runners. Bit of a life lesson here: try to prioritise important tasks (like running) over those that are merely urgent, but not necessarily critical to long-term goals (like doing laundry). The solution? Be more like Alan. Set your alarm 20 minutes earlier. Once you sit up and put two feet on the floor, 95% of the chore of getting up is already done. You don’t need to take anything with you on your jog apart from your keys and a water bottle. Have those things ready on a table by the door the night before. Now step outside into the morning sunshine and start to walk briskly. No need to run yet. Walk quickly for 3 to 4 minutes and lean forward as you do this. Now start to morph this walk into a slow jog. Try to keep this up as long as possible. If you find it too much, slip back to the fast walk again. Once you’ve got into this routine three to five times a week, you’ll start to find the ratio of walking to jogging flips. Not only that, but the out of breath before the chorus and you can’t hit the high notes for the hook, slow down a little. Diet is one of the key ingredients to your new fitness success and thankfully I’m not talking about spinach and asparagus smoothies or three grams of creatine injected directly into your eyeballs. You might have heard of carb loading? This is just what it says on the tin. The night before you head out, make sure to include foods like dried beans, lentils, pasta, or potatoes. Balance this with protein (mushrooms, chicken, prawns or emu) and vegetables – broccoli is especially good as it contains potassium, calcium and iron which all help get your body ready for exercise. Hydration is essential. But water, not beer. Even a couple of drinks the night before a run will make your legs feel like lead and your stamina will drop off hard. Ideally give alcohol a two-day rest before a big run and you’ll thank yourself. I stupidly did a 15km run after an all-dayer at Clockenf lap. I tried to pace myself throughout the festival, but still put away about five pints and didn’t get to bed until 1am before a 7am race start. Ouch! Save the beers for after the run. Energy gels are a gift from the gods when you’re halfway through a run or race and you can feel the power draining out of you with every bead of sweat. I recommend two to three gels for a 10 to 15km run. Avoid the caf feine options as they leave you feeling like a Colombian drug lord after sampling the ‘product ’. Get yourself a ‘camel-pack’ which is a small backpack that has a special pocket that fits a water pouch. This has a long tube that you can suckle on furiously as you reconsider your life choices. I found I always put too much water in it at the start which leads to a bumpy, heavy and sloshy ride. Aim for about 1.5 litres and be sure to sip it. Baby sips are your friend. Big gulps leave you cramping and sluggish. Persistence is key. Think of running like learning a new skill. You wouldn’t sit at a piano and expect to play Flight of the Bumble Bee after your second go, so don’t expect to be hitting sub-25-minute 5km runs in your first month. Be consistent and show up, regardless of the weather. A slow run for five minutes is 100% better than no run. Make the routine of running into a habit and, I promise, you’ll eventually miss it if you skip it. I awoke at 4.30am on my 43rd birthday in a terrifying hotel with Alan. Not because we’d been out in Wanchai the night before, but because we were about to do the 10K at the Standard Chartered HK Marathon. I never thought I’d do that and I’m so proud of myself that I did. And so are my kids. Now on to the 21K...

September’s the perfect month to hop on a junk, and if you’re looking for pick-up and drop-off in Discovery Bay, Mervyn Black has you covered PHOTOS COURTESY OF Andrew Spires, Charter Junks HK & Fl oatudio There are many ways to see Hong Kong, but few experiences leave you fully appreciating what an extraordinary city we live in like a day on a junk. The moment the boat leaves the pier, the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s most densely populated cities is a distant memory, replaced by lapping waves, popping corks, splashing water, catchy tunes and, most importantly, good company. Junks have been setting off from piers all over Hong Kong for decades and there are any number of places you can spend an afternoon, but for Discovery Bay residents, jumping on a junk is as easy as catching the morning ferry – and far more exciting. THE LOCAL TOUCH Junk trips are synonymous with Hong Kong and for DB resident and Charter Junks HK founder Sharon McEneff, it’s easy to see why. A 10-year veteran of the junk industry, including five years running Charter Junks HK, Sharon loves getting out on the water just as much as she loves using her boats to bring joy to her customers. “I think it’s just the views. Hong Kong is around 70% greenery and there are so many pretty views,” says Sharon when asked why Hong Kong and junks are such a perfect match. “And the skyline is iconic, especially at night when the lights come on. We’ve had someone come across from Singapore and propose to his girlfriend on the junk in front of the skyline, which was just lovely.” While summer is officially behind us, there’s plenty of warm weather ahead and Sharon is quick to reassure anyone who thinks they’ve missed the chance to get out on the water in 2025. “There’s less risk of rain as the year goes on and people know it’s not as humid. Even now, you’d be surprised how cool it is on the water. You’ve generally got that little breeze as well,” she says, adding that there’s no better place to view the city’s New Year’s Eve fireworks than from a junk. Charter Junks HK stores its two boats – Kitty and Poppy – in Aberdeen but will pick up partygoers “basically wherever there is a pier”, including Aberdeen, Central, Tsim Sha Tsui and, of course, DB. Whether you fancy a day on the water somewhere off South Lantau or beyond, Sharon and her crew have you covered. “Normally we will cruise 45 minutes from DB and there are a number of really nice coves to explore,” she says. “Cruising for 45 minutes and then stopping is ideal because then you can move around and talk to people and it’s much easier to party. “When we take the junk out at night with friends we go to Lamma for a seafood dinner. Even just cruising up to the container ship port and sitting among all the boats and lights is really good fun. That’s one of my favourite spots. We also go to Clearwater Bay. It’s really pretty there.” Charter Junks HK even provides a Container Port Tour among its wide variety of offerings, which start at HK$800 per head for all-inclusive food-and-drink nighttime packages (HK$900 daytime). Boat-only options are also available, plus kids’ junks with special menus, life vests and trampolines on request. Kitty and Poppy feature high-quality sound systems with Bluetooth and loudspeakers, and there is plenty of room for a band or DJ. There’s also a good variety of food – everything from Indian to Mexican, barbecue, Thai and Chinese – plus the option to add a speedboat for wakeboarding and banana boating. “We’ve got a lot of nice floaties. We’ve got a C-shaped bench seat so you can have your feet dangling in the water with drinks in hand,” says Sharon. “We’ve got these little floating baskets that we push the drinks out in. And if you want to swim to shore, we’ve got noodles and paddle boards. “We don’t do slides – they are really dangerous – but we get a lot of kids jumping in and we’ve got nonslip mats,” Sharon adds, pointing out that customers can request extra staff to help look after the children if needed. By mooring Kitty and Poppy together Charter Junks HK can accommodate parties of up to 70 people but they are also looking into ways to cater to small groups. “We want to try and arrange a set day of the month where we do combined parties for people who can’t quite get a full party together but can get eight or so together and want to mix with another party,” Sharon explains. While Sharon admits she runs Charter Junks HK very much for the fun of it – “there’s a lot of maintenance, so what money comes in, goes out” – she’s been pleased to see an uptick in DB-based clients, with at least 25% of her business currently homegrown. And while good times are the name of the game for Sharon, there is a part of the business that is close to her hear t: “Poppy was named after the Royal British Legion. We do a lot for them and anybody who is an RBL veteran we give 5% back on the booking.” THE CHEUNG CHAU CONNECTION Charter Junks HK is far from the only junk provider that offers pick-up and drop-off in DB, with Kingdom Club Yacht Chartering giving exclusive discounts to DB residents and Hong Kong Junks providing special trips around Cheung Chau and Lantau. Cheung Chau-based Floatudio, the brainchild of Sarah Yip and third-generation Cheung Chau fisherman Rex Law, is another top pick with trips focused on local waters around Cheung Chau, Lantau and Lamma. Floatudio caters for up to 37 passengers, with a full-day, boat-only junk trip starting from HK$7,800 on weekdays and HK$8,800 on weekends. Different kinds of boat rental services are on offer, such as round-the-island tours, fishing, squid fishing and private boat parties. These days, Floatudio also heads out to Tai A Chau, the largest of the Soko Islands in the far southwest of Hong Kong’s waters. On this trip, you have a good chance of spotting pink dolphins, and you can enjoy a real desert island experience on disembarking. Once home to a thriving farming community, Tai A Chau became a refugee camp for Vietnamese boatpeople in the 1990s and is now uninhabited. It’s nuggets of information like this that you gain from a trip with Floatudio – Sarah and Rex both have extensive knowledge of the outlying islands, local waters and marine life which they are more than willing to share. The couple has been actively involved in marine conservation since 2019, when they upgraded to a 60-foot wooden motor junk, and formed Eco Cheung Chau, an NGO dedicated to protecting local waters and raising awareness particularly among outlying islanders and local fishermen. They provide guided, tailor-made eco-tours, as well as specialist sea workshops where you get to handcraft fishing nets and upcycle your creations into art pieces, while learning a little bit about Hakka traditions. That being said, a trip on the Floatudio can be anything you want it to be. It’s fully equipped with everything you need for a fun day on the water – a sound system, barbecue grill, karaoke and floaties – and you can opt for the usual add-ons like kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Jolly junk fun!

Experience the good life down under PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock SITUATED ON THE BANKS OF THE YARRA River in south-eastern Australia, Melbourne has truly cemented itself as a world-class city. While the Central Business District grid and landmarks such as Federation Square and Flinders Street Station are an Instagram lover’s paradise, the inner suburbs and city fringe are what truly give Victoria’s capital its heart and soul. SPEAK TO ANY MELBOURNIAN, and they’ll steer you towards Fitzroy in the uber-cool inner north. Brunswick Street is home to hip cafés, vibrant street art and some great vintage shopping. You can liken the area to downtown Berlin or Seattle. After spending the afternoon visiting the many boutiques and consuming multiple lattes, eat at The Punters Club, home of cheap pizzas and late-night parties. CROSS CHURCH STREET BRIDGE and you find yourself on Melbourne’s southside, South Yarra to be precise. Home to Melbourne’s rich and famous, this chic suburb stretches 4 kilometres to the outskirts of St Kilda, where the land meets the sea. Lined with designer boutiques and not a few Ferraris, South Yarra’s Chapel Street also houses some of Melbourne’s swankiest bars and clubs. THE GENTRIFIED SUBURB OF RICHMOND is another must-see with cosy pubs, laneway cafés and some great clearance outlets along Bridge Road. Richmond is also renowned for its live music scene. The Corner is a first-rate venue, famous for hosting big-name bands, such as Pink Floyd, The White Stripes and Midnight Oil, as well as an ever-growing list of local Melbournian legends. TAKE A STROLL THROUGH the heritage-listed Royal Botanic Gardens on Birdwood Avenue. Its 38 hectares house exotic plants and animals, a beautiful lake and even gondolas – a taste of Italy down under! Visit the gardens on any day of the week to enjoy guided tours, an Aboriginal Heritage Walk and expert-led wellbeing experiences like yoga and forest bathing. THE ENTRANCE TO AUSTRALIA’S BUSIEST PORT, picturesque Port Phillip Bay is easily one of Melbourne’s most popular recreational destinations. Port Phillip is actually made up of some 16 bays, and the bustling esplanade offers up fantastic views. Head there for birdwatching, cycling, sailing, snorkelling and swimming. BANG ON THE SHORELINE, in St Kilda, there’s only one thing to do, and that’s get lost! Paired with the soundtrack of Melbourne’s busking community, it’s the perfect spot for a Sunday stroll. The sprawling streets are dotted with shops of all kinds, plus interesting cafés and bars. Luna Park is the most iconic landmark, with its magnificent entranceway and scenic rollercoaster providing a panoramic view of Port Phillip Bay and beyond.

Digital marketing assistant at a Korean beauty company, Tung Chung resident Iris Mathews moonlights as a model, and has appeared in advertising campaigns for the likes of New Balance, Frites UAE and Gahsp Media. An economics and marketing graduate from HKUST, Iris enjoys the creativity of the marketing industry. Be inspired by her style… Top Thrifted from @wh0sthatgirl.co, Necklace Hües, Earrings Pandora, Bracelets Pandora, Phu Quoc, Rings Gucci, Lily & Roo, Bohomoon, Concealer Tarte, Foundation Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r, Blush & highlight Rare Beauty, Bronzer Kiko, Eyes Urban Decay, Lips Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Liner, Elf Lip Oil, Mascara Tarte - PHOTOGRAPHY BY Gretl Chan @grxtl Skirt Thrifted from Mee & Gee, Bag Jacquemus, Nail Polish Sally Hansen - PHOTOGRAPHY BY Gretl Chan @grxtl Boots Taobao - PHOTOGRAPHY BY Gretl Chan @grxtl Clothes Jeans Abercrombie & Fitch. T-shirts Brandy Melville. Sneakers Adidas. Underwear Victoria Secret. Exercise gear Lululemon. Favourite designer Jacquemus. Go-to high street store Edikted, NYC. Local shopping mecca Argyle Center. Beauty Shampoo & conditioner Pantene. Perfume YSL Black Opium. Toothpaste Colgate. Soap Dove. Moisturiser Clinique. Hairdresser My mom cuts my hair. Inspirations Role model My mom. Necessary extravagance Always having my nails done. Favourite place in HK Tai Hang. Dream holiday destination The Maldives. Charity Hong Kong Red Cross. Movie Corpse Bride. Hotel Alila, Bali. Favourite colour Light pink. Song in my head Pearls by Sade. Fashion Idol Elsa Hosk. Favourite photographer Gretl Chan @grxtl. Home Place of residence Tung Chung. Favourite art Anything by Monet. Go-to homeware Le Creuset. Pet Rosey, my Cavapoo puppy. Favourite flowers Lilies. Favourite drink Matcha latte. Favourite dessert Brownies. Favourite snack Hummus & pita. Kindle or print books? Print. Favourite book A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini. Tech Phone iPhone 13 in pink. Instagram @irissmathews. Headphones AirPod Pro Max in green. Sound system Bose. Favourite TV shows Modern Family, New Girl, Criminal Minds. Streaming now Modern Family. Most played games NYT (especially Connections). AI go-to ChatGPT. Your next tech purchase Ferragamo heels!

REPORTING BY  Rachel Sadler PHOTOS COURTESY OF  Il Bel Paese Il Bel Paese DB opened in 2001 as Il Bel Paese Italian delicatessen with a mission to introduce Italy’s finest flavours to the community. It relaunched in July 2020 with three different concepts: Il Bel Paese Ristorante Italiano, Il Bel Paese Italian Express and Il Bel Paese Gelato Italiano. The result? An approachable, friendly and relaxing space in which to eat, shop and learn. From imported wines and specialty cheeses to handmade pastas and pizza, the popular DB venue provides a holistic Italian experience that’s all about enjoyment and relaxation. RISTORANTE ITALIANO Il Bel Paese Ristorante Italiano was redeveloped last year in May, with everything from the decor, furniture and kitchen equipment revamped. It reopened in July 2020, and it’s a welcoming space with a cosy, family-friendly atmosphere. “We tried to recreate an inviting and relaxing restaurant that focuses on providing our guests a beautiful Italian experience with traditional and authentic heart-warming Italian dishes,” says Mia Kwun, marketing assistant for Il Bel Paese, DB. “Our generous menu features an exciting range of authentic classics made directly from the heart,” Mia adds. “Our chefs use some organic local produce, most of the ingredients are imported from Italy.” Signature dishes and bestsellers include Vitello Tonnato, thinly sliced veal with tuna sauce, pickled onions and capers; Mezze Maniche and N’duja, pasta with fresh sausage and spicy N’duja sausage from Calabria; Tagliolini all’ Aragosta, lobster with homemade pasta; and Cotoletta alla Milanese, breaded veal cutlet which is a classic of Milan’s cuisine. Pizzas are another bestseller. The base is made with high quality Italian Mariani flour, which is high in fibre and naturally less refined. “Our concept is traditional authentic Italian cuisine and we want people to experience authentic Italian dishes,” says Mia. “Every now and then, we add or change menu items according to demand and guests’ feedback, while staying true to the authentic Italian concept. “We participate in HKR promotional offer programmes, for example accepting dining vouchers, and often we have special prices on selected items in our Il Bel Paese Italian Express. Because we have various outlets and are expanding with more different brands, we will be launching a membership programme soon.” GRAB-AND-GO EXPRESS Il Bel Paese Italian Express is a new brand with a grab-and-go concept. It offers a wide selection of gourmet Italian delicacies such as pasta, olive oils, vinegars and wines. Fruit and vegetables, cold cuts and cheeses are all carefully selected and imported twice a week from Italy to ensure freshness and quality. Bestsellers include Casa di Rinaldi extra virgin olive oil, tomato sauces and olives; Giovanna Pavarotti balsamic vinegar; Parmigiano Reggiano aged 24 months; Prosciutto ham aged 24 months; organic tomatoes and melons. “We are the sole importer for Asia of multiple award-winning Cedea still and sparkling water,” Mia says. “Cedea is the exclusive, world-class water of the Dolomites. The grab-and-go section also dishes up ready-to-eat meals and desserts. Bestsellers for takeaway are homemade meatballs, paninis and tiramisu, all packed in handy biodegradable containers. THE VINO For wine lovers, Il Bel Paese has an extensive selection representing the 20 regions of Italy, available in both the restaurant and grocery store. “DBers love prosecco and, at the moment, we are promoting Veneto Villa Braida Prosecco, which has fresh fruity and citrusy notes with a dry palate and moderately long finish; and Veneto Le Rughe Prosecco Rosé, which has predominant notes of red cherry and strawberry combined with tart citrus, and a tannic finish,” Mia says. “Both are perfect summer choices as aperitifs, or for pairing with salads and seafood dishes.” ITALIAN GELATO Il Bel Paese’s homemade gelato is lower in sugar (17%) and fat (7%) content than other brands and it’s made with pasteurised skimmed milk. Guests can opt for sorbet as a dairy-free option, such as passion fruit, lemon, strawberry and mango. “All our gelatos are gluten-free except for the Cookies and Cream,” says Mia. “We have a total of 18 flavours, amongst them are Mint Chocolate, Nutella and Stracciatella.” Buon appetito! Il Bel Paese in DB Plaza is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. To make a booking, call 2987 0202. To find out more, visit www.ilbelpaese.com.hk .

Opened in February this year, right opposite the bus station in DB Plaza, with stunning sea views, DBrasserie has already established itself as a go-to neighbourhood meeting point. It’s somewhere to relax with friends either indoors or on the rooftop terrace, while eating, drinking and being entertained. “We’ve prioritised community engagement,” opens co-owner Thorsten Allenstein. “DBrasserie is a remarkable establishment that encompasses multiple facets of dining, entertainment and events. In addition to our culinary and libation offerings, we host a variety of events that cater to the diverse interests of our patrons. We have regular comedy nights, and there are live music performances every Friday and Saturday.” A fully equipped live music venue, DBrasserie is by far the best place in DB for bands to showcase their talents, and it’s also the ultimate destination to catch live sports screenings. “We subscribe to all the major international sporting events, and we are showcasing the Euros in June, providing a vibrant setting for fans to come together and cheer for their favourite teams,” says Thorsten. ALL-DAY DINING Open by 6.30am Monday to Friday, and by 7.30am on the weekend, DBrasserie closes at 10pm Sunday to Thursday, and around 1am on Friday and Saturday. You can sample the eclectic Asian Fusion menu round the clock, drop in for a quick (Uncle Russ) coffee during the day, or head there for latenight drinks on your way home from work. The menu is extensive, neatly covering breakfasts, breads, snacks and salads, mains and graffiti bowls, burgers and grills, and desserts. “We specialise in American BBQ food with an Asian twist, plus a wide selection of Asian vegetarian and vegan dishes,” Thorsten says. “Our menu has been carefully curated by Meeta Nanda and Joe Campbell, two exceptionally talented chefs, who are well-known in our community. They draw on flavours from all around Asia and bring out the best of the cultures combined. “With our concept centred around sharing a meal with friends, our menu is designed to allow you to order exactly what you need and avoid wastage. Dine with us and you get affordable food your whole group will enjoy!” There are also plenty of options when it comes to parties and events. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion in the restaurant with a group of friends, hire out the space for a larger event or arrange catering for a party at your home or office, DBrasserie’s friendly and professional staff have you covered. NEIGHBOURHOOD HANGOUT Of course, you’re also welcome to drop by just for a drink or two. Whether you’re looking to kickback on the balcony while taking in the breathtaking views, or hang out indoors and watch the live sports, there’s a tempting selection of wines and spirits on offer, plus an extensive range of craft beer. Know too that there’s a “2 for 1 Happy Hour,” Monday to Saturday from 4pm to 7pm. “As part of our commitment to excellence, we are thrilled to feature Hong Kong-brewed Young Master Craft beer on tap,” says Thorsten. “We have a wide range of styles and flavours, so beer enthusiasts are sure to find their perfect pint.” DBrasserie is also known for its exclusively brewed wheat beer, Wunderweizen. Bavarian-inspired with a fruity twist and a refreshing taste, it’s carefully crafted to suit the Hong Kong climate. This month, during the Euros, a German bitter Pilsner is being added to the roster. “We believe that our commitment to showcasing exceptional craft beer, along with our engaging events enhances the overall experience for our guests,” Thorsten concludes. “These unique offerings, coupled with our top-quality dining options, live music, sports screenings and breathtaking views, make DBrasserie a standout establishment worthy of recognition.”

Opened in April 2022, The Rink All Day Lounge is the flagship and most recent addition from Il Bel Paese Group. Well located in DB Plaza extension with a capacity of up to 120 guests, the restaurant abuts the sea on one side and DB Ice Rink on the other. It specialises in international cuisine with a Mediterranean influence, offering diners a wellness-focused journey through Southern Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean and Northern Africa. Aiming to provide an elevated dining experience for guests, The Rink boasts a classic contemporary decor, combining traditional and modern characteristics. Stand-out design features include a Swiss chalet-inspired ceiling, elegant chandeliers, rustic brick walls, a sleek ‘long’ bar and wine cellar/ wine wall. Upon entering the restaurant, diners are welcomed by an open kitchen, where they can watch the chefs at work before settling into the stylish main dining hall or spacious, pet-friendly outdoor area. At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Maged Makram, an Egyptian-born chef with 30 years of experience working for renowned hotel chains across the world including Sheraton, Le Méridien and Fairmont. “Travelling helped me gain different skills and diversify my cooking skills,” opens Maged, adding that the use of spices gives his dishes a distinct character. BESTSELLERS The Rink’s menu focuses on natural and organic produce of the freshest quality, with seasonal ingredients used as much as possible. There are currently five bestsellers: the Hokkaido Scallops, Plain Hummus, Fresh Garden Vegetable Salad, Braised Angus Beef Short-Ribs and Signature Lamb Shank, each of which showcase the restaurant’s commitment to fine dining. Pan-seared and juicy, the Hokkaido scallops come with a creamy parsnip mash with spinach. “Parsnip mash has an earthy flavour that goes well with the scallops,” says Maged, adding that the use of traceable seafood contributes to the restaurant’s sustainable practices. The Rink’s homemade hummus comes in four different varieties – plain avocado, truffle and Beiruti – all served with homemade pita bread. “People love the hummus as it’s known to be very healthy, packed with essential vitamins and minerals,” Maged explains proudly. “And our cuisine is all about freshness, so instead of re-heating the pita bread, we freshly bake it as we receive an order.” Wellness-minded diners also love The Rink’s garden vegetable salad (Naxos), which combines cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, mint and parsley. “We want our food to be authentic,” Maged says, drawing attention to the salad’s refreshing and tangy pomegranate dressing. Interestingly the restaurant’s two bestselling meat dishes – the beef short-ribs and lamb shank – are both slow cooked. “Our chefs adopt a range of healthy cooking methods, for example, slow cooking,” says Maged. “Cooking at low temperatures allows the food to retain its nutrients, and at the same time flavours are evenly distributed which enhances the dish further.” The Rink also makes sure that vegetarian diners are not left out; there is an extensive selection of non-meat dishes. Then of course, there are the desserts, including Kunafeh, a delicious filo-dough pastry that is ubiquitous across the Middle East. SUSTAINABILITY The Rink understands that restaurants and sustainability now go hand in hand. Green practices include the use of energy-efficient equipment, LED lights and eco-friendly cleaning products. Recycling of glass, plastic and cans is a given, and sustainable, biodegradable food packaging is used for takeouts. Furthermore, The Rink has implemented a zero-waste policy that staff must adhere to, which includes minimising food wastage through effective sales forecasting and using an efficient inventory system. DRINKS In addition to its world-class food offerings, The Rink offers an extensive selection of wine, beer and cocktails. Wines are predominantly French and Italian, with plenty of sparkling options on offer. There’s also a good range of beer available on tap, including Heineken and Murphy’s Irish Stout. Seeking a refreshing option? Try the homemade fruity Sangria, red or white. Or the classic Smoked Negroni, which is made in-house and barrelled for up to three months to bring out the flavour. SPECIAL OCCASIONS Needless to say, The Rink has positioned itself as a place to celebrate. On Mother’s Day and Father’s Day this year, the restaurant provided complimentary specially curated cocktails and desserts for families. And there’s more to come, with plans for monthly food and wine pairing events, and special themed menus for festivals and holidays. “We are currently preparing our Halloween festivities. We will decorate the venue and welcome kids to trick-or-treat at our door,” Maged concludes with a smile. The Rink All Day Lounge, in DB Plaza extension, is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. To reserve a table, book the space for an event or order takeout, call 3709 6451.

REPORTING BY  Rachel Sadler PHOTOS BY  Richard Gordon www.richardgordonphotography.com Boasting a fabulous sea view from the ground floor of Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong, Café bord de Mer & Lounge has been a hit with residents since the hotel opened in 2013. Specialising in Western and pan-Asian cuisine, it’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a choice of buffet, set and a la carte menus. “ Café bord de Mer can seat up to 160 guests, while the outdoor terrace welcomes up to 400. It is a good place for families to enjoy food together, and we offer a lot of different international dishes ,” opens Larry Lai, Executive Chef. What’s more, the restaurant is warm and inviting – interactive cooking stations and timber finishes establish a welcoming and relaxing vibe. Full-length windows draw sunlight into the large, open-plan space and reward guests with panoramic views over the South China Sea. INTERNATIONAL BUFFET Café bord de Mer’s lunch and dinner buffets are a firm favourite with DBers – there’s a rich selection of Western and Asian dishes to choose from, and the price point is good, meaning you can enjoy a buffet any day of the week, not just on special occasions. “ Guests can enjoy a mixture of Japanese, Chinese and Western dishes; our buffets are very international,” says Larry. “Popular dishes include the roast beef (available daily) and we always have at least four Chinese dishes on offer, plus a large selection of sashimi. ” The antipasti table is another favourite with diners, offering a traditional selection of cured Italian meats, olives and cheeses. Try the mouth-watering smoked salmon toast which comes with a carefully curated selection of olive oils to drizzle over the bread. Café bord de Mer’s buffets include free-flow soft drinks, coffees and teas – and there’s always the option to dip into the hotel’s extensive wine cellar. “ We have a wealth of wines for guests’ selection, with everything from Delamotte Champagne to Maotai Chinese Wine, plus a full range of sake ,” says Larry. “ Our French Wine Promotion in December was a big success with wines like Dourthe Marquille White Bordeaux and Chateau Haute Bergerade Costieres-de-Nimes. ” CNY SPECIALS Larry and his team are already gearing up for the Chinese New Year (CNY) celebrations, which will begin at the end of the month. “It’s a big time for families to get together,” he says. “We are planning a special Chinese lunch, and we’ll also provide a traditional dinner buffet, with many different dishes to share". “ At CNY, everything we eat has a symbolic meaning, so we will serve classic chicken roll, which is said to bring riches and happiness. And we will have steamed whole fish, which is believed to bring you more prosperity. ” As in previous years, the restaurant and hotel entrance will be lavishly decorated in red and gold throughout the festive period. “ It’s the Year of the Tiger so we will follow that theme and there will also be decorative dancing lions, ” Larry says. ALFRESCO DINING Café bord de Mer’s spacious terrace seats 400, and it’s a great place to relax and unwind, while soaking up the glorious sea view. It’s as popular for romantic suppers and family gatherings, as it is for large scale receptions and events. “The terrace is great during the cooler months, as there’s a nice sea breeze for guests to enjoy,” says Larry. “You can dine there, or simply relax with a drink. We see a lot of residents enjoying a coffee on the terrace after their discounted sessions at Spa Botanica.” SET MENUS Café bord de Mer’s set lunch and dinner menus each come with a choice of appetiser, main, dessert and drink. As with the buffet and a la carte menu, the emphasis is on providing an international selection of dishes with something to appeal to all. “For set lunch, beef cheek is our bestseller,” says Larry. “Kumquat cured salmon tartar with soft quail egg and caviar is another popular dish. We marinate the salmon in kumquat jelly and we use a special kumquat olive oil dressing.” Café bord de Mer & Lounge at Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. To make a booking call 2295 8288 or visit www.aubergediscoverybay.com