How much do you know about Julia Roberts and her films? BY Elena M. Zepeda 01. Julia Roberts was born in which US state? A. Texas B. Georgia C. Washington 02. Who plays Roberts’ mentee in After the Hunt? A. Ayo Edebiri B. Chloë Sevigny C. Florence Pugh 03. In which movie does Roberts star alongside Meryl Streep? A. Closer B. Ticket to Paradise C. August: Osage County 04. In which thriller does Roberts play a lawyer who investigates a series of murders? A. The Client B. The Pelican Brief C. Duplicity 05. Who is Roberts married to? A. Lyle Lovett B. Daniel Moder C. George Clooney 06. Roberts’ first leading role was in which movie? A. Satisfaction B. Mystic Pizza C. Baja Oklahoma 07. In which film does Roberts play the mother of a boy born with a craniofacial difference? A. Stepmom B. Ben is Back C. Wonder 08. In Hook, which iconic character does Roberts play? A. Tinker Bell B. Wendy Darling C. Tiger Lily 09. What Academy Award nomination did Roberts receive for Steel Magnolias? A. Best Supporting Actress B. Best Actress C. Best Screenplay 10. In Pretty Woman, which song plays during the shopping montage? A. Material Girl by Madonna B. Oh, Pretty Woman by Roy Orbison C. zUptown Girl by Billy Joel 11. Roberts won the Academy Award for Best Actress for which movie? A. Charlie Wilson’s War B. Erin Brockovich C. Secret in Their Eyes 12. Who stars opposite Roberts in Notting Hill? A. Richard Gere B. Pierce Brosnan C. Hugh Grant 13. Roberts plays Tess Ocean in which movies? A. Ocean’s Eleven and Ocean’s Twelve B. Ocean’s Twelve and Ocean’s Thirteen C. Ocean’s Eleven and Ocean’s Thirteen 14. In Runaway Bride, how many times does Roberts’ character leave a man at the altar? A. Three B. Four C. Five 15. In which movie does Roberts play an evil queen? A. Maleficent B. Mirror, Mirror C. Snow White and the Huntsman 16. In which animated movie does Roberts voice a character? A. Hotel Transylvania B. Stuart Little C. Charlotte’s Web 17. In Sleeping with the Enemy, why does Roberts’ character change her identity? A. She wants to start a new career B. She is fleeing her abusive husband C. She is seeking revenge 18. Who plays Roberts’ character’s best friend in My Best Friend’s Wedding? A. Rupert Everett B. Dermot Mulroney C. Ewan McGregor 19. Whose bestselling memoir is Eat Pray Love based on? A. Tina Fey B. Cheryl Strayed C. Elizabeth Gilbert 20. In which movie does Roberts play a medical student? A. Flatliners B. Blood Red C. Mona Lisa Smile Answers B A C B B B C A A B B C A B B C b C C A

What Every Dog Owner Needs to Know Great news for our dog-loving community! The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has officially permitted dogs in selected restaurants across Hong Kong under clear guidelines. Yes – this now includes fully air-conditioned indoor venues! Lantau Island has 14 licensed restaurants, including 4 venues in Discovery Bay, 4 in Tung Chung and 6 in South Lantau. Rules for Pet Owners Dogs may be held, placed in a carrier/ stroller or seated on a dining chair if the restaurant allows it, but they must remain on a leash (no longer than 1.5m) held by an adult or secured to a fixture. Dogs are not allowed on dining tables or in food preparation areas. Dog food must not be placed on dining tables. Dogs cannot eat from the restaurant’s regular reusable tableware. They may only use single-use or their own bowls. Known dangerous dogs and fighting breeds are strictly prohibited. Your dog must be fully vaccinated and hold a valid AFCD Electronic Dog Licence. Owners are fully responsible for cleaning up any excrement and keeping their dogs under control Basic Etiquette for a Pleasant Experience Clean up immediately if your dog has an accident. Dispose of waste properly and inform staff so they can disinfect the area. Respect other diners. If someone nearby feels uncomfortable, keep your dog close to you and, if possible, move to another table. If your dog barks persistently, becomes over-excited, or shows signs of stress, calmly take them outside until they settle. Fold away dog strollers when not in use to avoid obstructing pathways. Tip: Always call the restaurant in advance to confirm their specific house rules. Licensed restaurants on Lantau Island Discovery Bay McDonald's Restaurant PHO BAY PIZZAEXPRESS THE COFFEE ACADEMICS Tung Chung OUZO BAR AND RESTAURANT QUE VENCHI Yue South Lantau PAUSE CAFE (Mui O) NAK Kafé (Tai O) Moon Kee Lin Heung Restaurant (Tai O) GOOD VIEW RESTAURANT (Pui O) Espace Elastique (Tai O) Tung Shing Lau Check the official FEHD list of permitted restaurants. Read more on the official FEHD Guidelines on Good Practices for Dog-Friendly Restaurants

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

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

Harvey Law Group provides an overview of Citizenship By Investment programs in the Caribbean: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Kitts and Nevis This is the first of a series of articles giving you insights into the opportunities to gain Citizenship By Investment (CBI) in the Caribbean. Stay tuned and follow us in the coming months as we dive into the at tractive of fer s that Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Kitts and Nevis present. Options for CBI in the Caribbean are highly regarded as well-regulated pathways for second citizenship through approved investments, including real estate. Today, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Kitts and Nevis all offer popular, government-approved routes that allow high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) to participate in Caribbean real-estate investments. Each program is structured differently and targets distinct investor priorities. Let’s take a look. Antigua and Barbuda. Established 2013. Advantages: sibling inclusion and digital asset eligibility. Best for: extended families and crypto holders. Dominica. Established 1993. Advantages: accessible entry with strong eco-development potential. Best for: value-conscious investors. Grenada. Established 2013. Advantages: eligibility for the US E-2 visa. Best for: entrepreneurs targeting the US market. St. Kitts and Nevis. Established 1984. Advantages: oldest program with a strong international reputation. Best for: reputation-focused investors. CARIBBEAN CITIZENSHIP BENEFITS All four Caribbean CBI programs offer a common set of advantages for HNWIs, including visa-free travel to more than 140 destinations and favourable tax environments. Understanding these shared benefits helps place program-specific differences into context, allowing investors to consider which Caribbean real-estate investments best serve their individual needs. All of the programs allow investors to obtain citizenship in the Caribbean through approved real-estate projects under clearly defined regulations. The differences lie in family inclusion rules, unique mobility benefits such as US market access, and overall program cost considerations. For investors comparing Caribbean real-estate investments side by side, these factors of ten shape which pathway best aligns with personal, business and wealth-protection goals. For detailed investment thresholds, property options and application processes, you can refer to our individual program guides at harveylawcorporation.com. GLOBAL MOBILITY One of the most attractive reasons investors consider CBI in the Caribbean is the level of global mobility it provides. In all four programs, successful applicants receive visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 destinations worldwide. This typically includes the United Kingdom for stays of up to six months, the Schengen Area for short-term travel of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, and major Asian business hubs such as Singapore and Hong Kong. In addition, Caribbean Communi ty (CARICOM) membership allows regional mobility and work rights within the Caribbean. It is important to note that none of these programs provide automatic access to the United States, which generally requires a separate visa or ESTA depending on nationality. TAX ADVANTAGES Tax efficiency is another shared benefit available across all Caribbean CBI programs and a key reason many HNWIs consider Caribbean real-estate investments as part of a broader wealth structuring strategy. These jurisdictions do not impose personal income tax on non-residents, nor do they levy capital gains tax on property sales, inheritance tax, or net wealth tax. This is particularly advantageous for rental income generated from approved Caribbean properties. However, holding Caribbean citizenship does not, by itself, change an individual’s tax residency. Home-country tax obligations typically continue to apply unless residency and tax planning are addressed separately. FAMILY INCLUSION CBI in the Caribbean also provides long-term family planning benefits that extend beyond the initial applicant. All four programs grant lifetime citizenship that can be passed on to future generations. Spouses and dependent children are eligible for inclusion, although age limits vary by jurisdiction and typically range from 18 to 30 years. Parents and grandparents may also qualify, subject to age and dependency criteria, and future spouses or children can be added after citizenship has been granted. Among the four programs, Antigua and Barbuda is unique in allowing the inclusion of siblings. For individuals interested in gaining CBI in the Caribbean, professional legal advice is invaluable. Harvey Law Group brings over 32 years of immigration expertise with offices in 20 countries globally, including major hubs like Hong Kong, Paris, Miami and Montreal. Our specialised expertise extends to Caribbean real-estate investments, offering clients clear, professional guidance on selecting the most suitable jurisdiction, understanding contribution requirements and assisting with each step of the application process. HLG ensures a smooth and compliant process, we’re here to assist you at every juncture: contact@harveylawcorporation.com. Contact us for more info.

What's happening across Hong Kong HONG KONG CHINESE CULTURAL FESTIVAL Brought to you through September by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, Hong Kong Chinese Cultural Festival features an extensive lineup of exhibitions, film screenings and performances celebrating Chinese arts. Accessible to all ages and staged at venues across the city, the festival kicks off on July 5 at Hong Kong City Hall with Resonance of Strings and Harmonics – a guqin recital by Yao Gongbai. Look for tickets at Urbtix. HONG KONG BOOK FAIR The 36th edition of Hong Kong Book Fair is taking place at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from July 15 to 21. This year’s theme is “Cultural Legacy / Joyful Journeys” and with it comes seminars by international authors, multimedia exhibits and a dedicated World of Art and Culture Zone featuring curated books and art installations that bring global cultural heritage to life. Purchase single-entry admission tickets at HK Ticketing. OPEN THE BOX Filipino artist Ryan Villamel is hosting a slow-growing participatory exhibition, Open the Box: Pleasant Place from July 4 to August 2 at Tai Kwun. Participants are invited into an immersive, forest-like environment, inspired by Villamael’s Locus Amoenus series. They are encouraged to actively shape the installation by creating paper leaves, vines and abstract landscape fragments that gradually accumulate to form a shared “pleasant place”. Entrance is free. VOLLEYBALL NATIONS LEAGUE The Women’s Volleyball Nations League is being held at Kai Tak Arena from July 8 to 12, with home team China playing Italy, Canada, Belgium, Ukraine and the Dominican Republic. The tournament offers an exciting opportunity to watch world-class volleyball live, and fans can also enjoy a free-admission carnival featuring interactive booths and performances. Purchase tickets at HK Ticketing and Damai. NGONG PING 360 20TH ANNIVERSARY The 20th anniversary celebrations of Ngong Ping 360’s foundation run from July 24 to October 11, with live Cantopop concerts and festival fun at Ngong Ping Village. On select weekends, cable car rides are available until 10pm, allowing passengers to enjoy illuminated night views of the Big Buddha and Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge. Additionally, over 20 well-known local brands are partnering to give individual cabins unique, cross-generational design makeovers. Purchase tickets at Klook.

Whether she’s leading classmates, dreaming of Harvard or designing a planner for her peers, 10-year-old Riona Carlin likes to stay one step ahead. Elizabeth Kerr reports It’s a sweltering June afternoon. The school year is just winding down and everyone seems to be moving in slow motion through the thick air. So when Riona Carlin logs on to Google Meet, her high-energy greeting and abundant enthusiasm are something of a surprise. “I’m 10 years old, and my favourite colour is light pink, and I go to Discovery College, and I’m from America,” she begins. The camera propped on top of the monitor moves around almost as relentlessly as she does, careening to take in the cat that walks past, which prompts her to show off the family SPCA membership card, a random sibling (Caia) who’s dropped in to see what’s going on, and her dad, Christopher, quietly sitting in the next chair. Operative word, “quietly”, because Riona doesn’t need his help making conversation. She boomerangs from one subject to the next, occasionally getting sidetracked but usually getting back to the main point. She insists she does have downtime – at 6am. The oldest of triplets by a matter of minutes, Riona is in the same grade at DC as her sisters Caia and Teagan. They all grew up in Hong Kong where Arizona native and research writer Christopher and his wife Lisa, a Long Island banker, settled nearly 20 years ago. The couple may have been surprised by triplets and Riona, naturally, has thoughts. “Being a triplet can sometimes be annoying, especially when you don’t get enough attention, but it’s fun to have a built-in friend. Teagan wants a brother but I heard lots of stories from friends at school that have brothers, and they say it’s chaotic.” She smirks a bit and her eyes widen at the thought. Riona is the embodiment of hyper-at tuned, gregarious confidence, the kind of bold personality that even in 2026 too many of us find charming in boys but “a bit much” in girls. Which is unfortunate because Riona, with her blonde tresses and disarming toothy grin, is also the kind of kid who will have a positive impact on the world one day – because she feels like it. She’s already been on student council because she thought she’d be a good leader. “I really do like to be in a leadership role. I want to be in charge of planning something so I know it goes well.” And she keeps her grades up because she has her eyes firmly fixed on Harvard and a career in medicine (preferably paediatric research), law or teaching. “Nowadays, they aren’t just looking for great scores. They’re looking for potential and compassion and being a good leader. I think I have all those qualities.” Riona may be mature for her age, but she walks the walk, boasting just a touch about besting her sisters by grades and dictation marks, which takes her to writing. She has a shout-out for a fourth grade teacher who encouraged her to finish a story about a princess on the Silk Road and submit it to the Hong Kong Young Writers Awards. “I wrote over 1,000 words, and my teacher said ‘You have to shorten it.’ But I did get an honour certificate, which only, like, 10 people got out of the 2,000 that submit ted applications.” Christopher and Lisa landed in Hong Kong after working in all corners of the globe, from Saudi Arabia to Australia, and when three daughters arrived made their way first to Discovery Bay and then Mui Wo eight months ago, which Riona admits took a bit of adjusting. She wasn’t crazy about leaving behind her army of friends and she changed schools at the same time: Christopher and Lisa couldn’t pass up three slots at DC. But she’s set tling in and finding time to be a “kid” – swimming, biking, listening to music (Sabrina Carpenter, Zara Larson) and get ting into a good book; her current reading list includes Katie Kirby and Elisabet ta Dami, perfect for “a nice and rainy day just curled up on the corner of my bed”. Here Christopher chimes in, saying his oldest has always been an active reader, and conceding there are first-middle-youngest traits among the girls. Riona agrees. “I like reading. I love doing sports. I really like baseball and softball. I think I’m definitely more the sporty type than my sisters, but I’m also more on the reading and writing side. Caia always has her mind on her next idea. What is she going to create? She’s always making stuff.” But Riona makes stuff too, and for now her self-published planner for pre-teens is her claim to fame. The idea evolved from her “pretty good English” skills and the daily planner she started posting on her bedroom door. She wanted to be more organised in her habits but when she started looking for some kind of journal to use instead, she couldn’t find one that met her “expectations”. So she decided to make her own. Riona is, if nothing, fastidious and sure of her own mind. The result was a day planner that worked for her – and would probably work for other kids like her. There was research (with help from dad), design, drawing, re-designing and re-drawing until Riona came up with The DAILY Pre-Teen Planner: A Fun Journal for Big Kids. The diary can be completely personalised, and it’s evergreen; it’s undated, so owners can use it for, say, eight months of the school year and skip organising themselves over summer break. Ultimately, The DAILY will help kids learn about time management, stick to routines, track habits, set goals and build confidence. Riona has kept it fun with factoids (a recent word of the day was bioluminescence) and a selection of carefully sourced inspirational quotes. “We added a mood for the day, little things to track yourself daily with, where you did well and what you want to improve on tomorrow to kind of set up for the next day. So it ’s like a planner, but not like a calendar. It ’s not like saying ‘I have this or that meeting’. I want to make sure I do everything before I go to sleep.” The DAILY is a word-of-mouth project right now; both Christopher and Riona admit they haven’t put a lot of marketing into what’s essentially a satisfying labour of love. There’s no reason it wouldn’t take off however, if Riona put her mind to it… after her upcoming summer grandparent tour across Arizona, Idaho and New York. But right now, The DAILY takes a back seat to a mention of how she and her sisters do regular beach clean-ups with the Brownies, and how she’d love to contribute to a cure for cancer. “Everybody should have the chance to not suffer from cancer, because I think it’s a really bad disease to die from.” Google is on a timer, so as the clock runs down Riona gets a thousand-yard stare, like she’s contemplating whether there’s more information she needs to dish out. “I think I gave you more than what you needed to know,” she says, finishing with a laugh, “You could basically be my biographer from early life all the way to 10.” Come 80 that’s going to be one long, fascinating book.

Dating and romance in DB: Edward Szekeres finds out what that looks like for singles, romantic partners and married couples PHOTOGRAPHY BY Andrew J.C. Spires & courtesy of Pam Wallace The picture is clear, the appeal obvious and inescapable. Discovery Bay is a prime venue for romance, a must-visit dating spot for love-struck couples walking hand-in-hand across Tai Pak Beach or posing for selfies at Love-Lock Promenade… At least that’s the message conveyed by major travel agencies and local authorities through regular romantic promotions and elaborate, annual Valentine’s packages. Most of us have seen the rose-tinted advertisements that tend to attract a weekend crowd of smitten couples. But what’s it really like for those living in DB – alone, with a partner, or a spouse – when it comes to the ins and outs of love, dating and romance? A quick glance at online discussion panels – and an informal collection of attitudes from across DB – reveals a two-sided outlook: DB is “great for families but boring for singles”. But that hasn’t been the experience of Elektra Leung, a resident in her mid-twenties who grew up in DB. As a singleton, who returned from her studies abroad a few years ago, life in DB was just great. “I hung out with my friends from the old days and I also started playing tennis with new friends I met in the community. DB is a small and friendly place, it’s easy to make friends fast,” she says. “If you live in DB, we all kind of know each other. The community vibe here makes you feel connected, whether you’re single or in a relationship.” It is thanks to this community that Elektra eventually met her boyfriend Ryan Mak, while playing tennis at the DBRC. They now both enjoy the “unique nature of DB, away from the crowds outside”. “Most of the time, we just walk around with our beagle, Snoopy. On weekend afternoons, we have a big dog playgroup, so we’ll just hang out there, chat with other dog owners, and let Snoopy run wild. That’s become our favourite kind of date – simple, relaxed and surrounded by green space and friendly faces,” Elektra says. “I don’t find the isolation limiting at all, it’s way more romantic than I ever expected,” Elektra adds. “We don’t need fancy date spots, DB has everything we need for a happy, romantic life together. The peaceful vibe and nature here make it feel like our own little bubble, and I love that.” But this “bubble” – a word often mentioned by DB residents when discussing dating – can be a barrier to some, especially those who are yet to meet their romantic match. “I’ve been living in DB for three years, and I haven’t met anyone single or available,” says Gianna Wong. In her early thirties, Gianna admits her focus on her career and hobbies has played a part in keeping her single. While she’s open to meeting someone who fits the bill, she finds the confines of DB limiting. “Most people here have families or long-term relationships,” she says. “If I really wanted to meet someone, I’d probably look outside DB.” Being single doesn’t keep Gianna from having a happy life in DB however, and she hopes to share that one day with a long-term partner. “Couples have a good life here,” she says. “It’s a small place, but there are lots of romantic places and nice restaurants to choose from for dates. You can walk along the beach, do hikes… and it’s only 25 minutes from Central.” Distance from town, however, plays a big part in the love life of MJ Bejerano, a domestic helper from the Philippines who moved to DB three years ago. “It’s very different from everywhere else in Hong Kong,” MJ says, hinting at the dense concentration of families within a small area – and the apparent lack of singletons. MJ, who’s in her early forties, hasn’t met any romantic partners in DB. She prefers to meet people further from her workplace to enjoy more privacy – a sentiment she shares with many of her DB friends. But this presents its own challenges, particularly for a community whose working hours stretch far beyond a typical 9am to 6pm workday and which, in most cases, only has a limited amount of free time. “That’s why it’s really hard for me to meet people. Transport takes a long time, and the ferry is expensive. I also have a lot of other activities and sports. But if I met someone who can accept the limited time I can make for them, then maybe that could work,” MJ says. “My mentality is that if there’s someone out there for you, they’ll eventually come along,” she adds. “And if somebody really likes you, then it doesn’t matter that there’s a 25-minute ferry. If I really liked that person, I’d cancel plans for them and dedicate my small amount of free time to them.” Gianna and MJ agree that while DB’s dating pool might be narrow, the place itself offers a great life for those who are happy being single – or don’t mind meeting people outside the “bubble”. But what about those who are not looking to meet anyone else, with their hearts and minds already married to the one? “At first, it seemed a bit like The Truman Show,” chuckle Diya and Anant Bakre, a married couple who moved to DB 10 months ago from the Netherlands. “You meet the same people, and the same things happen everywhere, like in a quiet village. “It’s a lovely place in a controlled environment that’s optimal for getting to know people. It’s got a good balance of people who have come recently and those who have really set up homes here,” Anant adds. “Most people have been very inviting and super friendly, and they also find the time for a quick chat,” Diya says. “And I’m deliriously happy Anant found the DBRC tennis community; all the social opportunities keep us active.” For Pam and Brent Wallace, a married couple of 32 years – half of which they’ve spent in DB – the feeling is mutual. “Moving here from the US, we just started making friends right away. We landed on a Monday, and were at church the next Sunday,” Pam says. “Our kids, aged 12 and 14 at the time, were at church retreat a week later with the youth group. So it was a great decision to move here.” The children have since moved out, and DB has undoubtedly evolved. But so has Pam and Brent’s relationship. “We wanted to make sure we had a healthy mix of friends and together-time,” Brent says. To this day, the couple try and carve out a night in their weekly schedules to focus on each other. “Friday nights are date nights,” Brent says, with DB being the ideal playground. Whether it’s going out for dinner or having a glass of wine out on their patio with their phones switched off, Pam and Brent take the time to “just sit, catch up and solve the world’s problems, no matter how crazy the day has been”. “It’s so easy to grow apart,” Pam says, emphasising the importance of “doing things together”. One of those things is dragon boating, with both being long-time members of the DB-based Sea Cucumbers. “It really helps our relationship and keeps it alive, especially now that the kids have left,” Pam says. “We’ve made brilliant friends there, they’re like family.” At the end of the day, whether in DB or not, staying together comes down to choice, hard work and being there for each other. “People can choose to let the spark go out,” Pam concludes, “or they can choose to do what it takes to keep it going. Just be purposeful.”

Every summer, Hong Kong waits for the storms that pause the city and reshape daily life. Ray Au takes a look PHOTOS COURTESY OF Adobe Stock & Kayli Liebenberg Typhoon season in Hong Kong does not arrive quietly. It announces itself in stages: first through heat thick enough to feel electrical, then through weather maps glowing red and orange on mobile apps, then finally through the peculiar collective vigilance that settles over the city whenever the Hong Kong Observatory begins issuing warnings. For newcomers, typhoons, a type of tropical cyclone, can seem dramatic but abstract – distant spirals moving slowly across the South China Sea. Long-term Hong Kong residents understand them differently. Typhoons are not isolated weather events here; they are part of the rhythm of the city itself. They shape architecture, routines, transportation, work culture, even social behaviour. Every summer, usually between June and October, Hong Kong enters a period where daily life can suddenly pivot around wind signals and rain bands. For residents of Discovery Bay, typhoon season can feel especially isolating. Ferries are suspended during higher storm signals, buses become limited, and the exposed waterfront location means winds often feel far stronger than in denser parts of Hong Kong, turning our usually tranquil seaside community into one of the city’s most dramatic vantage points for approaching storms. Unlike in many places where severe weather feels exceptional, Hong Kong has turned typhoon season into something strangely organised. The city braces, adapts, pauses and resumes with remarkable speed. There is a particular atmosphere before a typhoon hits. Supermarkets become crowded with panic buyers anticipating a two-day closure. Outdoor workers move quickly to secure bamboo scaffolding that climbs the sides of skyscrapers like temporary skeletons. Residents tape windows, charge battery packs, and secure outdoor items to prevent them from becoming airborne projectiles in gale-force winds. We check whether the Observatory will raise the T8 signal – the threshold that effectively shuts down much of the city. Even after years in Hong Kong, many people still feel a small thrill when a T8 is announced. Part of that thrill comes from rarity within routine. Hong Kong is one of the world’s most densely scheduled cities. Workdays are long and movement through the city is highly structured. A typhoon interrupts that machinery. Offices close. Schools suspend classes. Meetings disappear from calendars. Commuters stop rushing. The city becomes temporarily suspended. For many of us, typhoon signals are tied to nostalgia. A T8 once meant waking early to watch television in the hope of school cancellation announcements scrolling across the screen. Today the alerts arrive instantly on phones, but the emotional pattern remains the same. Whole families wake repeatedly during stormy nights to check Observatory updates. The Observatory itself occupies an unusually prominent role in public life. In many cities, weather forecasting operates quietly in the background. In Hong Kong, the Observatory’s warning system shapes collective behaviour in real time. Residents casually discuss T1, T3, T8, T9 and T10 signals with the fluency of traffic conditions, or stock prices. Here’s what we know: a typhoon is a rapidly rotating storm system characterised by a low-pressure centre or ‘eye,’ surrounded by a ring of intense thunderstorms called the eyewall. They form over warm ocean waters (typically 26.5°C or warmer), bringing low pressure, strong winds and rain. A further spiralling arrangement of thunderstorms can extend for hundreds of miles. T1 signal means a tropical cyclone is within 800km of Hong Kong and may affect the territory. T3 brings stronger winds and signals caution. But T8 changes everything: gale- or storm-force winds are expected within 12 hours. Public transport begins scaling back. Businesses close. Financial markets may suspend trading. Restaurants shut their doors early. Taxi demand spikes instantly. By T10 – the highest warning, indicating that the eye of a typhoon is very close – the city is effectively in lockdown against nature. Hong Kong averages around five to seven tropical cyclones requiring warning signals each year. Storm winds usually last only a few hours unless the eye of the typhoon passes close by. In such cases, high winds may persist for about eight hours. Tropical cyclone names in the western North Pacific are assigned by the regional Typhoon Committee under the World Meteorological Organisation to facilitate communication and tracking. Unlike Atlantic hurricanes, western Pacific typhoon names do not alternate between male and female names. Instead, they are contributed by countries and territories across the region and often reference animals, flowers, mythological figures, places or cultural symbols. Despite sitting in a region habitually af fected by typhoons, Hong Kong’s T10 hurricane signal — the highest tropical cyclone warning level — has been issued only 19 times since official post-war records began in 1946, making it relatively rare but culturally iconic. Between the 1980s and 2000s, Hong Kong experienced only two T10s (1983 and 1999). But since 2010, there have been several more (2012, 2017, 2018, 2023 and two in 2025). Many storms have left a lasting mark on Hong Kong’s history. In 1962, Typhoon Wanda (T10) battered the city with peak gusts exceeding 260km/h. Decades later in 2018, Super Typhoon Mangkhut (T10) stunned the world with peak sustained winds near 285km/h over open waters, making it one of the strongest and most photographed storms ever to af fect Hong Kong. More recently in 2023, Typhoon Saola (T10) passed extraordinarily close to the city – roughly 40km south of the Observatory – while Typhoon Haikui (T8) brought record-breaking rainfall, dumping 641.1mm of rain on the city. Meanwhile 2025 proved to be a record-breaking typhoon season for Hong Kong. While 14 tropical cyclones required warning signals – the highest annual number since records began in 1946 – Hong Kong also issued two T10s (for Typhoon Wipha and Super Typhoon Ragasa), tying the previous record set in 1964. At Ragasa’s peak intensity, maximum sustained winds near its eye reached 270km/h, making it the world’s most powerful Category 5-equivalent tropical cyclone of 2025. During a typhoon, strong winds can cause structural damage, uproot trees and generate dangerous flying debris. Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding and landslides. Storm surge (a rise in sea level) can inundate coastal areas. But what makes typhoon season in Hong Kong fascinating is that life does not fully stop. It transforms. Inside apartment towers, residents settle into rituals. Some cook elaborate comfort meals. Others stand at windows watching palm trees bend almost horizontally in the wind. Families gather around televisions while rain lashes against glass. Social media fills with photos of empty streets in Central, waves crashing over promenades in Stanley, and supermarket shelves stripped of produce. The visual drama of typhoons is amplified by Hong Kong’s geography. Mountains rise directly behind dense clusters of skyscrapers. Narrow streets create wind tunnels. Victoria Harbour becomes steel-grey and turbulent. The city’s verticality makes storms feel theatrical. Clouds move low across peaks, while neon reflections shimmer through rain-slick streets. For many, however, the defining memory of typhoon season is sound. Hong Kong during a major storm is extraordinarily loud. Windows rattle continuously. Wind whistles through tiny architectural gaps. Rain strikes buildings with astonishing force. In older apartments, air-conditioner units shake through the night. The city’s usual soundtrack – traffic, construction, crowds – is replaced by pure weather.

Eight DBIS students share how learning Mandarin led them beyond the classroom and into the physical, collaborative world of lion dance. Martin Wray reports PHOTOS COURTESY OF DBIS The 2025/ 2026 Discovery Bay International School Lion Dance team consists of eight dancers (Anri, Curtis, Gaius, Lodé, Lukas, Matthew, Parthiv and Yoonwoo), supported by two drummers (James and Thalia). What makes this group unique is that their journey began in the classroom. Through learning Mandarin, they developed a genuine appreciation for Chinese culture, and seven of the eight dancers have continued their studies through to IGCSE level. Representing five countries (Australia, Hong Kong, India, Korea and South Africa) within a student body of nearly 50 nationalities, these students are a wonderful example of how language learning can build cultural understanding. Brought together by their passion for Mandarin, they have performed at numerous school events, including the annual CNY celebration and International Food Fair, and they have shown remarkable dedication in designing and perfecting their routines. While every student at DBIS has the opportunity to learn languages and engage with Chinese culture, these students have distinguished themselves by embracing lion dance, a tradition that demands athleticism, discipline and teamwork. Let’s hear what they have to say. Matthew, who was born in America and spent his formative years there, speaks up first. “I wasn’t close to my culture when my parents moved back to Hong Kong… Lion dancing introduced me to a new side of my culture, and helped me to explore it.” Next Lodé chimes in, explaining that she picked up Mandarin “because the characters are so beautiful, and because when you learn Chinese, you learn about the culture”. For Par thiv, the driver was more about connecting with the people around him. “My friends are locals, and they speak Mandarin. So just trying to learn how they speak was my main goal. But what really made me choose Mandar in over the other languages is that every time we were learning about a specific story or characters, Miss Mi would bring in the origin story behind it.” Myra Mi, their Mandarin teacher and DBIS’ Head of Chinese and Modern Foreign Languages, reintroduced lion dancing to her classroom af ter the pandemic to encourage interest in Chinese culture. She began by teaching herself the choreography and passing that knowledge to her students. Anri explains, “We had that experience of choreography from previous years. It was a lot of research into seeing what other people do, mostly on YouTube, how playful the lion has to be and how it has to move.” Preparation was intense, and the physical demands quickly became apparent. Lodé describes the strain of performing in costume: “It’s really heavy, but after a month or two, when you pick it up, it’s light. Our performance was 10 minutes long, so keeping the heavy head up then bending down for that large amount of time, it’s difficult. And it’s hot, like a sauna.” For Lukas, one of the biggest challenges was staying in sync. “Since you can’t see anything, you’ve got to be aware of what the next step is; you’ve got to follow the steps of the person in front. Holding that position is really, really painful; my lower back was stretched, really stretched.” Gaius points to another layer of difficulty, and the subsequent admiration he has developed for professional lion dancers. “This year, the playfight was really beautiful. When you get pushed, you have to roll as a whole lion, and that’s really hard to do, especially in a big costume. The more you do lion dances, the more you respect the people that actually perform every year.” Reflecting on the experience’s broader significance, Thalia says, “There aren’t many opportunities to do something like this, to have the equipment, the time, the chance to perform. It’s a chance to try things out, engage with the culture, and also strengthen our relationship with our cul tural ident i ty. Because we’re graduating this year, it was our last chance to do something like this. We decided to go for it, do the best we can, and hand it over so that next year, hopefully, they can top it or build on it.” Curtis concurs, “I’m really glad that I decided to participate. It was meaningful, interesting to learn the dances, and I found it quite fun as well.” “It’s just an amazing feeling,” Anri finishes. “When you’re in the light, and you start hearing the drums, and then your heart is also like yeah, yeah, yeah, going really fast. The excitement. It’s just amazing.”

Courgette & Feta Fritters Serves 4 Place the grated courgette in a flat layer on sheets of paper towel. Cover with another layer of paper towel and press to remove the excess water. Place the courgettes, eggs, crumbled feta, flour, baking powder, and chopped herbs in a bowl. Season well and mix to combine. Heat a little oil in a large, non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of the mixture to the pan and flatten with a spatula. Repeat and cook, in batches, for 2 to 3 minutes each side or until golden. Serve with tomato salad and tzatziki.

Hong Kong International Airport