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Kung Hei Fat Choy!

Oxen Beware! The Tigers are here to claim their year!

Get ready to celebrate Hong Kong style, as the lanterns, miniature mandarin trees and, perhaps most importantly, Lai-see packets are brought out across the region. Chinese New Year is always a special time as the biggest event in the Lunar calendar, with two-week long events and activities throughout Hong Kong.

A flurry of activity preceeds the public holidays as families prepare for the new year. After decorating homes and businesses with red lanterns and red and gold posters depicting wishes of ‘prosperity’, ‘luck’ and ‘happiness’, families set about sweeping and scrubbing their houses to rid any ill-fortune from the previous year.

Chinese New Year brings with it a fresh start. In the build up to the new year ‘Hong Kongers’ flock to the shops to buy new clothes and shoes that will symbolise a new beginning. You may also notice a disproportionate number of people sporting a new haircut as this goes to further the metaphor.

Following Taoist, and to a lesser extent Buddhist, tradition a paper effigy is burnt for the Kitchen God, recorder of family functions. It is hoped that the Kitchen God will then report back to the Jade Emperor with positive thoughts.

On Chinese New Year’s Eve some families will visit a temple in time to burn the first incense stick of the new year. However, it is now more common to see New Year’s Eve gatherings held across the territory where party-goers ring in the new year in a similar fashion to their Western counterparts.

An important community aspect of the Lunar holiday is seen in the new year visits. The feasting begins as ‘Hong Kongers’ travel to see family and friends to rekindle relationships and share in the festive spirit of the season. There is a collective loosening of belts as feasts of meat, fish and sweet delicacies are served at dinner tables everywhere. These visits are a particular joy for children as they can begin to stockpile little red packets filled with lucky money (Lai-see) that they respectfully receive from their elders.

Another fun aspect of the holiday is learning about the Chinese zodiac and the legend of the Jade Emperor. There are various versions of the story but one of the more popular goes as follows.

Long ago in China the Jade Emperor decided there should be a way of measuring time. On his birthday he told the animals that there would be a swimming race. The first twelve animals to reach the other side of the fast flowing river would have a year named after them in the 12 year cycle of the zodiac.

As the animals lined up on the bank the cat and the rat, being poor swimmers, began to worry about the swirling waters before them. The two good friends came up with a plan to convince the strong, broad ox to carry them to the opposite bank. A kind creature, the ox agreed and allowed them to jump up onto his back.

Half way across the river the cat and the rat began to get excited as the ox was taking the lead. They had almost reached the other side of the river when the rat pushed the cat off the ox’s back and into the water. Then just as the ox was about to reach the finish line the rat jumped ahead and won the race.

‘Well Done”, said the Jade Emperor, “you have finished first and thus the first year of the zodiac shall be named after you”. The poor ox had been outwitted by the cunning rat and came in second.

As the new Chinese year rolls round it is third place competitor, the Tiger, who takes up his cycle. Each animal of the zodiac represents attributes of the people who are born in their years, giving us different personality types depending on where we come in the cycle.

The Tiger People are said to be lucky, lively, competitive and engaging. Another characteristic is that of incredible bravery, as daring fighters they are able to stand up for what they believe in ‘til the bitter end. Always in the lead, Tigers are respected for their power and courage, even by those who are working against them.

A quickness and an alert intelligence make Tigers fast learners. Tigers need a challenge. Add this to them being easily bored and it explains why Tigers tend to change their careers more often than any other Chinese animal. When it comes to the career path Tigers make excellent actors, musicians, racing car drivers, pilots, travel agents and writers.

However, Tigers do no find worth in money or power. They will be completely honest about how they feel and expect the same from you. On the other hand, they seek approval from family and peers but may have problems with respecting authority figures.

Generally, because of their charming personalities, Tigers are well liked but criticism from loved ones can leave them feeling depressed. However, like all felines, Tigers always land on their feet, ready for their next act in life.

Tigers are most compatible with Horses, Dragons and Dogs

Famous Tiger People: Agatha Christie, Tom Cruise, Sir Alec Guinness, Marilyn Monroe, Stevie Wonder.

The year of Chinese zodiac predictions has been forecast by Hong Kong’s very own Feng Shui Master, Raymond Lo. In his book ‘Chinese Almanac 2010, The Book of Auspicious Days’, Mr Lo uses traditional Chinese calendars, astrology and divination systems to assess potential risks and successes for each of the animals of the Chinese zodiac. Below are the ‘fortune(s) of the mystical 12 animals in the year of the Tiger’.

Tiger
This year the Tiger people are offending the “Grand Duke” and so it is advised that they carry a pendant of the Pig for protection. Obstacles in their career and injuries are possible and refraining from excessive risk and gambling is advised.

Rabbit
Rabbit people may find themselves overtly attracted to their preferred sex and stepping into a world of romance. However they may find a depression when it comes to career and money. Additionally a “sick spell” is present and thus more attention must be paid to health.

Dragon
The Tiger is known as the “Travelling Horse” of the Dragon people. Care should be taken when travelling but also in making business deals as there is a chance of sickness and money loss this year.

Snake
The snake people are in what is called the “Half Penalty” with the Tiger. This means that there may be bad luck on the horizon so it is advised that Snakes were a Pig pendant for protection.

Horse
For the Horses there is a presence of the “White Tiger” star which may cause legal trouble or bodily harm. Fortunately the Horse is in what is called the “Three Combine Relationship” with the Tiger which may reduce risk of danger.

Goat
The Goats will experience a lot of movement and travel as well as a reason to celebrate events. They will also receive achievement and promotion in their career. On the downside care needs to be taken when travelling and the breaking of traffic regulations should be avoided.

Monkey
A clash between the Tiger and Monkey may result in a turulent year with movements and changes for the Monkey. Wearing a pendant of the Pig and a wariness of the road would help in minimizing such a clash.

Rooster
This year the Roosters are in danger of being cheated by dishonest people which could result in financial loss. Roosters must be careful when dealing with risky investments or when lending money. However others will be around to offer a rescue.

Dog
The Dogs will experience a harmonious year despite potential obstacles and delays at work. Overall there is a substantial chance of achievement concerning career and finance gained with due diligence and discipline.

Pig
The Pig people are combined and harmonised with the Tiger so it should be smooth sailing this year. However the presence of the “Death Angel” star may cause conflicts and loss of property. On the other hand there will be chance of sex and romance developing into a fruitful relationship.

Rat
Rats will experience a lot of movement and travel this year. Stars “Earth Funeral” and “Lonely Star” may lead to the passing away of family members or relatives and disharmony in relationships respectively. It will e necessary to pay heed to the needs of friends and family.

Ox
The Ox people will encounter a smooth year in terms of achievement and with the presence of the “Red Phoenix” there is a suitably for love affairs and marriage. There is a chance of sickness but this will be minimized by the presence of the Sun.

For further information on the Chinese Almanac visit Raymond Lo’s website at www.raymond-lo.com.

Sidebar: Chinese New Year Events
Taking an active interest in the Chinese New Year festivities is the best way to immerse yourself in the East-meets-West atmosphere of Hong Kong. Below we have summed up some of the best activities to take part in during the Lunar holiday.

Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade
Billed as the ‘World’s Happiest Party”, this event is a must-see as it showcases a kaleidoscope of traditional local and international dance and music. Crowds watch as extravagantly decorated themed floats stream down the promenade to the spectacular Hong Kong skyline backdrop. Ancient customs are teamed with modern fun as the annual party kicks off to entertain thousands upon thousands of locals and tourists alike. The parade snakes around the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui transforming the district into a giant street party. This year the night parade takes place on the 14th of February (Sunday) at 8PM in Tsim Sha Tsui . Ticket prices for available seating ranges from $180 to $300 per person. Alternatively get there early and find yourself a spot on the parade route where you can view the festivities free of charge.

Flower Market
For some festive fun take a trip to the Flower Market, one of the most colourful street markets in Hong Kong. During Chinese New Year families come here to buy luck-bringing houseplants to start out the new year on a good foot. Kumquat trees, narcissus and peonies bring prosperity; peach blossoms add fire to romance; while tangerine plants ensure long-lasting relationships and ‘fruitful’ marriages. The market is open from 7AM to 7PM. To get there just take the MTR to Mong Kok East Station and use Exit C, walk to Sai Yee Street via the footbridge and follow the signs.

Fortune Seeking Trip
During Chinese New Year we should give thanks for the past 12 months, but once you’ve done that why not take a sneak-peek at what’s going to happen in the next 12 months. The most popular place to have your fortune read is the Wong Tai Sin temple in Kowloon. Thousands of people gather here to make wishes to the gods and to have their fortune read using fortune sticks or by a palm reader. Another exciting place to go is the Temple Street market. Clustered along the Yau Ma Tei end are a number of fortune tellers ready to give you clues as to what’s in store for your future. To get to Wong Tai Sin temple take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin and use Exit B2 or B3. For the Temple Street market take the MTR to Yau Ma Tei and walk along Man Ming Lane to Temple Street.

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Hong Kong Dining with Inside DB Magazine

Belly Dancing Delights 2010

Dipping Into Moroccan Delights

Kasbah Restaurant

Kasbah Restaurant provides an innovative menu hailing from the Maghreb region (Morocco, Algiers and Tunisia) that will have your taste buds pleading for more. In keeping with traditional cuisine you’ll find that dishes are well spiced but not hot and spicy. A must try dish is the couscous Kasbah, served with roasted lamb shank, merguez and vegetables. What we love the most about Kasbah though is the warm, comforting atmosphere that the hued colours, handmade cushions and varied antique lamps and candles bring to the dining experience. Find it at 4-8 Arbuthnot Road, Central, 25259497.

Sahara Mezz Bar

Sahara Mezz Bar, with its Arabic décor, warm lighting and melodic Middle-Eastern music, is a relaxing getaway just a step and a jump from the busy streets of Central. Set out as more as a sheesha bar than a restaurant, you’ll sit around lowered tables on rustic benches covered with cushions. Fruit flavoured tobacco smoked out of authentic hookahs and mint tea compliment the Moroccan dishes available. Try the freshly baked pita bread along with traditional dips or the succulent Tangine meat balls. You may want to make a booking for an evening meal as tables fill up quickly. Find it at G/F 11 Elgin Street, Central, 2291 6060.

Olive

Head down to Olive, formally known as Malouf’s, to sample Chef Greg Malouf’s celebrated and award winning modern take on Arabic cuisine. Once in the restaurant you will be able to choose between al fresco dining, an elegant dining room or the more intimate setting of a well stocked bar. Each eating area is designed to reflect a sophisticated Arabic experience using motifs, art pieces, a mosaic ceiling, soft music and dimmed lighting. You can taste the freshness in the ingredients and the aromatic aromas steaming off your plate will leave you speechless. Find it at Shop 2008, 3/F Elements, 1 Austin Road West, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2810 8585.

Photo: Maggie Smith

Hong Kong Dining with Inside DB Magazine

Cool Temptations 2010

Go On...Spoil Yourself

DB: Moorings

Moorings is the perfect place to take the kids on a hot summers day. Decked out in a nautical theme with a clear view of the beach, Disneyland and the sea you can sit at one of their outdoor tables under sheltering blue canopies, lapping up the resort style atmosphere. Give in to your sweet tooth and you won’t be disappointed. A scrumptious treat is the snickers cheese cake with honeycomb ice-cream but for more of a summer feel we suggest you order the berry Dixie benne with mixed berries, ice-cream and cream. Find it at Shop G018, D Deck, Discovery Bay, 2987 8203.

XTC on ICE Gelato

XTC on ICE Gelato is based on the principle of creating artisan gelato and sorbet with the freshest ingredients. Their 80 flavours range from Apricot to Chocolate to Tofu Cheesecake, although some are subject to season so as to ensure all ingredients are fresh. Almost every part of the process is done by hand ensuring that each customer is specially attended to and there are no artificial preservatives, chemicals or colourings in their products. And on top of all that there is significantly less fat in their gelato than in most commercial brands! Find it at Shop B, 45 Cochrane Street, Central, 2542 0500. Other outlets in Happy Valley, Sheung Wan, ThreeSixty, Taikoo Shing, Festival Walk and Tsim Sha Tsui.

Berry Good

Berry Good does in fact make you feel very good. The frozen yogurt selection and toppings make you feel like you’re eating ice-cream but without the calories! In fact with all of the nutritional benefits derived from yogurt and the fresh fruit and crunchy cereal toppings you’re actually doing your body good by eating it. Although there are a lot of healthy extras you can also choose to put sweets, chocolates and gummies in your cup. Charts on the wall set out simple steps for placing your order which involves choosing the size of the cup, the flavour of your yogurt and finally a selection of just under 40 toppings. Our favourite cup consists of original yogurt, strawberries and maltesers. Find it at Shop A, G/F 41-43 Graham Street, Central, 2543 8393.

Ben and Jerry’s

Ben and Jerry’s not only produces some of the most delicious ice-cream we have ever tasted but its also ice-cream with a conscience. The brand actively supports their dairy farmers, released an ice-cream that directly helps their vanilla and sugar farmers (Fairtrade Vanilla), use free range eggs, support homeless charities, actively recycle, use energy saving appliances, ensure that staff buy ‘climate air tickets’ and run a charity cone day. Now if that’s not enough to convince you that this is a company that needs supporting have a taste of any of their inventive flavours and you’ll find yourself being won over. We suggest trying the always popular cookie-dough flavour or the chocolate fudge brownie. Can’t decide which flavour looks the best? Just ask staff if you can have samples to help you in your choice. Find it at G/F Tal Woo House, 17-19 D’Aguiler Street, Lan Kwai Fong, 3171 1982. Other outlets at Hong Kong International Airport, Festival Walk, Tsim Sha Tsui, Shatin and Causeway Bay.

Photo: Simon Howden

Hong Kong Dining with Inside DB Magazine

Slice of Heaven 2010

Savouring the City's Best Italian

Sopranos

Sopranos is not just your token pizza place. Located on the D Deck waterfront its best to ask for a seat outside where you can admire a clear view of Disneyland and the rest of the bay (don’t miss out on the Disneyland fireworks at 7:30PM daily). Combining native Italian tastes and a more contemporary cuisine style, Sopranos has something for everyone. Kids are welcome so bring the whole family down for a fresh pizza out on the airy veranah. Don’t feel like eating out? Order a piping hot pizza directly to your home! Find it at G07, G/F, D Deck, Discovery Bay, 2987 2915.

Grappas Cellar

Grappas Cellar, tucked away in the basement of Jardine House, provides a cosy oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Central. Decorated in a style that reflects old-town Italiana, you can enjoy a relaxed dining experience with accomplished staff who have an extensive knowledge of the menu. All dishes and sauces are produced exclusively in Grappas’ own kitchen using only natural ingredients, including a variety of the world‘s finest cheeses imported from Italy. The pizza menu provides a mouth-watering selection, along with signature dish Pizza alla Salsiccia which comprises of homemade sausage, salami, tomatoes and cheese. Definitely not one to miss! Find it at Jardine House, 1 Connaught Place, Central, 2521 2322.

The Mistral

The Mistral, a member of the elite “Buon Ricardo” Italian Restaurant Association, is one of the few restaurants in Asia that can boast authentic Italian cuisine and fine wines. Using ingredients direct from the heart of Italy, you can experience a truly Italian meal within the rustic, yet up-market, confines of the restaurant. Although The Mistral comes with a generous price-tag you can be guaranteed to get what you pay for. Find it at B2 InterContinental Grand Stanford, 70 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2731 2870.

Baci Pizza Too

Baci Pizza Too was introduced to Lan Kwai Fong following the immense popularity of its sister restaurants, Baci and Baci Pizza. Following in their casual, elegant ambience we love the walls of Baci Pizza Too which are gold finished and decorated with over-sized mirrors that reflect natural light throughout the space. A must try are Executive Chef Aldo Volpi’s thin Southern-Italian crust pizzas. A popular choice with diners is the Capese which combines fresh tomato, buffalo cheese, Parma ham, oregano and extra-virgin oil. Find it at G/F & 2/F 12 Lan Kwai Fong Street, Lan Kwai Fong, 2896 0099.

Photo: Suaf Eman

Hong Kong Dining with Inside DB Magazine

Midnight Delights 2010

Cocktail Worthy Hangouts

DB: Café Duvet

Café Duvet has the right idea when it comes to al fresco dining. While sipping on a Manhattan or a Fuzzy Navel you and your party can sit on big Thai-style beds under an electric fan, for those hot, humid nights, surrounded by tall palms and Jacarandas. The drinks menu hosts a variety of cocktails but if they aren’t what you fancy why not make your own? All you have to do is choose a maximum of five types of alcohol and the bartender will mix right up. Find it at G06, G/F, D Deck, Discovery Bay, 2987 0966.

FINDS

FINDS is a bar and restaurant that brings a firmly Nordic experience, which is given away in its acronym Finland, Iceland, Norway, Denmark and Sweden. Voted one of Hong Kong’s coolest nightspots, FINDS is situated just above the busy streets of Lan Kwai Fong and even boasts an al fresco area, a rarity in Hong Kong. Here they take their cocktails very seriously, classifying them into seven separate sections of the drinks menu, including ‘luxury cocktails‘, ‘hot cocktails’ and ‘molecular mixology cocktails’. Our favourite however is the Kimi Raikkonen, who frequented FINDS while in Hong Kong. it’s a frozen drink consisting of lemon leaf infused vodka, fresh lemon, elderflower, fresh berries, ginger beer and cranberry juice. After a sip of this you’ll think you’ve died and went to heaven. Find it at 2/F LKF Tower, 33 Wyndham Street, Central, 2522 9318.

M Bar

A firm city favourite, M Bar commands spectacular views over the harbour and the Hong Kong skyline. We love the floor-to-ceiling windows combined with the charcoal and silver interior, soft music and dimmed lighting, which all produce a classic and relaxed ambience. All their bartenders are professionally trained to be able to compile anything on their astoundingly long cocktails list so don’t be shy if you don’t see something on the menu that you would like. It not only has an incredibly well stocked bar but it will help you renew your love for the Hong Kong skyline. Got a visitor staying? M Bar is the perfect place to show off your home. Find it at 25/F Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road, Central, 2825 4002.

TOP DECK

Top Deck is an entirely unique experience. Sat atop the famous Jumbo Floating Restaurant, beneath a three-storey pagoda, you can enjoy a light sea-breeze and an ideal view of the bay, host to a number of multi million dollar yachts. Placed around the outside area are sofas and oversized chairs under and around tented awnings. There are a variety of traditional cocktails as well as a few berry margaritas, but for fun you may want to order the Jumbo Margarita. You may need a friend to help you finish it though as the name isn’t just in reference to the restaurant’s location. Find it at Top Floor Jumbo Kingdom, Shum Wan Pier Drive, Wong Chuk Hang, Aberdeen, 2552 3331

Photo: Maggie Smith

Hong Kong Dining with Inside DB Magazine

Spice Up Your Life 2010

Finding a Taste of Thailand in Hong Kong

DB: Koh Tomyums

Koh Tomyums has left its Wanchai digs for the sunnier climbs of Discovery Bay, ensuring that it kept in tact its hugely popular menu with a few ‘family-friendly’ additions. Its signature dish, king prawns in red curry sauce, is to die for and sure to be the hit of the night. However they do have a selection of milder and vegetarian dishes and a wide choice of both traditional and contemporary Thai. If you want to relax with a laid-back Thai meal while enjoying panoramic views of the beach and water take a trip down to Koh Tomyums for a thoroughly delectable meal. Find it at 105B, 1/F, D Deck, Discovery Bay, 2987 0767.

Café Siam

Café Siam is somewhat of a Thai institution in Hong Kong and after its recent facelift its projecting a new stylish ambience. Centrally located but removed from the eternal voices of Lan Kwai Fong we love the warm casual ambience and friendly, helpful wait staff. The menu offers both traditional dishes, from Thai Northern hill tribe favourite, yum hua plee, a banana flower salad with a crunchy nut dressing to the tourist favourite, phad Thai. To compliment your meal Café Siam has developed an exotic drinks menu including lemongrass tea and Mekong margaritas. Our personal favourite though is the coconut daiquiri that comes in a whole coconut. Find it at 40-42 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, 2852 4803.

Chili Club

Chili Club doesn’t waste its time or money on décor or aesthetics but what it does exceedingly well is Thai cuisine. We have a never ending list of all the dishes off the menu that we can’t get enough of, but topping the list has to be the tom yum goong, Thai beef salad and mango sticky rice. All the favourites are here and are served with as much spice as would be served in the national dish. If you’re not a fan of spicy food you can ask your waiter for either mild or medium spice. It’s recommended that you book before going, particularly towards the end of the week, as it can get quite busy. Find it at 88 Lockhart Road, Wanchai, 2527 2872.

Thai Lemongrass

Thai Lemongrass may be more expensive than your average Thai eatery (yet still reasonably priced) but as soon as you tuck in you know that you are paying for pure quality. There is a wide range of Thai favourites, such as pomelo salad, chicken in green curry and prawn cakes, which are undeniably delectable, but why not go for something a little more adventurous? We suggest trying the mango filled with stir-fried beef fillet and a sprinkling of cashew and water chestnuts and finishing off with their hugely popular lemongrass brulee. Its advisable to book for lunch and necessary for dinner times. Ask for a table near the windows and you can look out at the busy street below. Find it at 3/F California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguiler Street, Lan Kwai Fong, 2905 1688.

Photo: Simon Howden

Hong Kong Dining with Inside DB Magazine

Best of British 2010

Sweet Seductions

DB: McSorley’s Ale House

McSorley’s Ale House is a favourite with residents for its authentic oak panelling and classic British pub food. Unpretentious and friendly, its the perfect place to meet with friends and watch your favourite sporting events on one of their many screens. On select nights they also feature unplugged and acoustic folk music. What we’re really interested in though is the desserts on offer, in particular the apple tart. We can’t get enough of this bursting with flavour delight and our guess is neither will you. Find it at G11A-1, G/F D Deck, Discovery Bay, 2987 8280.

R66

R66 Revolving Restaurant is the only revolving restaurant in Hong Kong. Housed on the 62^nd floor of Hopewell Centre you get a 360 degree view of the city, with it taking about an hour to make a full circle. You’ll love the floor-to-ceiling windows that ensure that you get an unobstructed view through your entire stay. However its not only the views that impress here. The vast choice of teacakes and desserts which are brought to you on towering stands are astounding, and more importantly delicious. R66 provides an afternoon tea on weekends and public holidays and a high tea daily from 2:30PM to 6:00PM. Find it at 62/F Hopewell Centre, 183 Queens Road East, Wanchai, 2862 6166.

The Verandah

Sitting in The Verandah leaves you feeling relaxed and pampered. Looking through arched sea-facing windows below peacefully whirring ceiling fans alongside professional but friendly wait staff means that you can really sit back and focus on the view and the tantalising desserts that are on offer. All the desserts are either British creations or British favourites with a twist. Tired recipes have been updated by chef Florian Trento to bring a new tasting experience. A must try for those with a sweet tooth is the toffee-cinnamon banana crumble with caramel ice-cream which will melt in your mouth. Another favourite is the ginger snap tulip with orange sherbert and a Grand Marnier chiboust. Find it at 1/F The Penninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2315 3166.

The Clipper Lounge

The Clipper Lounge is a celebrated venue at the Mandarin Oriental. Nicknamed “Hong Kong’s sitting room”, its relaxing vibe and ideal location makes for a fantastic meeting place throughout the day. As soon as you step through the door and are guided to your table you will notice the exceptional service that all Mandarin Oriental staff exude. When ordering the afternoon tea set a three-tier stand will be brought to your table with a selection of savouries, pastries, cakes and scones. A particular delight is the in-house creation, rose petal jam that is actually exported to past guests who can’t get enough of it. For a really special treat enquire about the exclusive fashion shows that take place around the tables of The Clipper Lounge every three months. Catwalk shows featuring top designers such as Versace and Salvatore Ferragamo have been hugely popular at the aftertoon tea set. Find it at 2/F Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Road, Central, 2825 4007.

Photo: graur razvan ionut

Freelance Posting

Freelance, freelance, freelance. Great hours, great dress-code and fantastic boss. That is if you can get your voice out there and crack your way into magazine and newspaper consciousness. Home Grown Words is a means of shouting into the dark with the hope that someone will hear and turn on the light.

Photo: vegadsl