www.theguidehongkong.com THE GUIDE June 2011
Welcome to THE GUIDE July 2011. This month is packed with everything you need to stay cool and keep chilled in humid HK! Learn the latest blowdry secrets for smoother hair, discover the best places for maternity fashion, get ideas of how to nest up your home in a flash and lots more. Thanks for your all your lovely emails and letters folks! Have a jumping hot July!
Kelly ++
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Hong Kong Kids
Every child is different and has a unique and exciting future ahead of them. Help your small people to discover their talents and to make their lives and careers useful, rewarding and fun! What face of the future have you got on your hands?...
Mini Mogul
Stanley Ho, serial entrepreneur and local legend only thinks BIG in business. Inspire your billionaires-to-be to study hard and develop smarts for the busy world of commerce.
Biz Brains
The inspirational Patti Ho has been the Managing Director of Adler Jewellery Hong Kong since 1983. To reach business success help kids to find something they enjoy studying whether it is science, languages or maths and encourage them to follow their dreams.
Ace Artist
Yue Minjun’s contemporary paintings have raised a total of US$44.1 million at international auctions. Not bad for a man working with his passion. Painting classes at Anastassia’s Art House will teach art lovers all the techniques they need to create their vision.
Prima Ballerina
Yuanyuan Tan trained around the clock to become a wildly successful international principal dancer. Ballet teaches youngsters patience, confidence and discipline which are vital characteristics in all walks of life.
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Two for One Slimming
Good news for the guys...the Cambridge Weight Plan is not just for the ladies! Due to increased demand, they now have not one but two highly experienced male consultants who will help the men in your life lose that unwanted weight.
'When male clients come to us they use words like 'easy', 'confidential', 'no-fuss', 'simple' and 'quick'. They tell us that the scientific research that goes in to Cambridge gives them confidence as does the training and accreditation of our consultants', says Sarah Armstrong, the HK founder. The Cambridge Weight Plan was invented by a scientist at Cambridge University in the 60's and has a huge worldwide following.
If you or your man is thinking of shedding a few pounds, for health or beauty, contact Cambridge today and take advantage of their 2 for 1 offer. Call (852) 2525 7165
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Nesting at Home
Home is where the heart is and the soft furnishings and small treasures that you collect around you make a unit into a nest of relaxation, happiness and love.
The good news is that you can recharge your home in a flash with these simple steps.
- Beautiful, statement cushions are as attractive to the eye and encourage snuggling. Check out local boutiques or choose pure silk from the market and ask a tailor to whip them up for you
- Brightly painted walls zing energy and character into rooms
- Silk curtains enhance natural light to reflect into your home and have the added benefit of adding height to ceilings
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Maternity Watch
Thank fully, in 2011 it goes without saying that being pregnant no longer equates with wearing unflattering outfits. Maternity fashion has caught up with the trends and women now expect to look and feel of top form throughout the whole pregnancy. It is essential that pieces have been well designed and fitted to give max comfort during the blooming times.
THE GUIDE checked out the wardrobe must haves...
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Insomnia Hong Kong
“I just can’t seem to switch off at night and get hooked surfing online in kind of a daze. before I know it is 3am and I must wake up at 7am” says Jennifer Chan. She is not alone and lack of sleep can seriously affect peoples health by aggravating or inducing heart palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, headache, stroke and other syndromes. “I long to be able to sleep like I did when I was younger and wake up in the morning refreshed, but I just haven't found the solution yet” admits Jennifer.
Hong Kong is the perfect place for insomniacs to live. Here, you can eat, drink and be merry in the city that literally never sleeps. More than 20 percent of folks here suffer from insomnia and interestingly the rate amongst women is higher than men, according to the Department of Health.
Increasingly, the sleepless are turning to TCM treatments which adjusts qi and the blood flow to the vital organs. “We find that using acupuncture and herbal medicine really helps to make significant improvements in sleep, and better still eliminates drug dependence which just masks the problem rather than solving it’’ reports the busy YWY Chinese Medical and Coaching Centre in Soho.
Sleeping pills are not the solution to regulating the body clock and the ability of the body to relax and give in to a night of dreams and regeneration. Try out different techniques to get the most out of your waking and sleeping hours.
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Pilates at Options Studio Hong Kong
Get flat abs, tight thighs and buns of steel at Options Studio in Stanley Street Central, learning Pilates moves on the floor or using the Reformer. Head in for a Reformer Class for only $160 (max 4 people), or do a private 1 on 1 for $350 to get the scoop. (852) 2537 8889
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Diamond Report
THE GUIDE asked Sally of Ryder Diamonds for some serious shopping advice...
Which pieces are most in demand?
Engagement rings are in a boom at the moment - perhaps encouraged by the Royal Wedding - frankly we are just not sure but everyone is getting engaged!
Whats HOT in Sumer 2011?
Solitaire single stones are back in fashion - we are heading back to basics. Round diamonds, princess cut solitaires are the most popular. HK is the home of the 2 carat diamond, we love to look sparkly and make an impact. Plus, as HK is so safe you can wear fab jewelery every day.
Generally what cultural differences to you see from your international clients?
HK and Chinese ladies want the most flawless, top clarity diamonds in the world. They will accept smaller stones but want the absolute best. American women want the most impressive ornate and big diamonds. Aussi and English look for elegant wearable pieces.
Any tips for buying diamonds?
Well, prices have shot up 30% in 2011, due to demand and the scarcity of rough diamonds. We expect prices to go up a further 10% this month too.
Wahh! So, you heard Sally girls - get sparkler shopping pronto!
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What to do in Stanley...
* Visit Murray House, the beautifully restored Victoria-era building. In 1982 it was dismantled to make way for the Bank of China Tower and it was piece by piece reassembled into the present location in Stanley - wow! Sample the many restaurants inside with glorious views over the bay.
* Promenade and pose along the main street. The perfect place for people and dog watching whilst sipping a cup of tea in one of the many cafes and bars. People are friendly here so don’t be surprised if people ask to take pictures of you if you look especially stylish that day!
* View the Stanley Oriental Hotel for ideas of your next weekend away or the perfect place for guests to HK to stay
* Check out Tin Hau Temple that was built in 1767 and is located between the Stanley Plaza and Murray House. As the Goddess of the sea, Tin Hau is the most worshipped Goddess among the fishermen in Hong Kong. Now you can worship her too. Go Sea Sister!
The perfect balance of enjoying HK is to live in the sea breezy Southside and be a hop skip and a jump from town. For these reasons the Stanley Oriental Hotel has become THE place for short and long stays. With studios from 590sft to1200sft with sweeping balconies it blows other serviced apartments out of the water. Simmons matresses, full maid service and kitchens give that home from home feel from the moment you enter.
Stanley Oriental Hotel, 2F, 90B Stanley Main St, Stanley (852) 2899 1688 www.stanleyorientalhotel.com.hk
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Macau Spa Must Go!
Need a private retreat and a day to recharge your batteries? Cool down this summer and go for a super spa chill out session at the the simply fabulous Spa at Crown. Make the most of this months very special pampering package. The irresistible program includes a detoxifying Tamarind and Lavender body scrub, a stress busting 90 minute deep tissue massage, and a selection of delicious organic spa cuisine. You will leave feeling like you have been on holiday for a week!
At only MOP 1380 for an individual or MOP 2580 for a Couple - which is inclusive of complimentary use of the sumptuous Love Room with its own private pool and stream room, even VIP spa buffs are sure to be impressed. Extra good news...Quote THE GUIDE HONG KONG when booking to enjoy a complimentary one way ferry ticket from Macau to Hong Kong! This very special promotion ends 30 August 2011
The Spa at Crown – Level 3, Crown Towers, Macau
For more information and reservations, just call (853) 8868 6883 or email thespaatcrown@cod-macau.com. Ts&Cs apply.
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Bedding Hong Kong
We all know that the early bird catches the worm, whether its crashing a hot sample sale, closing a biz deal or getting a cab in the morning rush. Getting your quality zz’s and refueling overnight is essential. Sleep Naked’s collection of home bedding has proved to HK’s most demanding tai tai’s that they have the most premium hotel standard sheets at low prices. Do your dreams a favour and catch those essential extra hours of snoozing in sets of white crisp sheets.
SleepNaked.hk - free deliver to your door in 3 days,
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Waxing Hong Kong
Having a great reputation is something that you have to work for. Since opening, Nude have always led the way with their super strict hygiene policy to give clients the very best results with the cleanest international techniques. Go see for yourself and do a special intro price $270 Brazilian Wax - which is as painless as they get. While you are there, check out the Slimming treatments which are getting rave results and also the Permanent Hair Removal which both have 50% off this month (for 1st time customers only).
Nude (852) 2868 9100
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Vets Hong Kong
We asked Dr. Kenda at The Valley Vet Centre for his top pet advice this summer...
Protecting your dog from heatstoke is really important at this time of the year. If you are feeling the heat, then imagine how your furry friends are while wearing a fur coat! Dogs don't sweat like humans, instead they only release heat by panting. Use common sense, such as not going on long fast runs, keep their coats short and give them plenty of water throughout the day. If you spot a overheated dog then immerse them in cool water and get down to your vet sharpish.
Thanks Dr. Kenda!
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The Perfect Hong Kong Pedicure
Few things in life are more satisfying in life than kicking back while a pedicure pro works her magic on your feeties. Rough skin is sloughed off, cuticles are pushed into alignment and nails are shaped, buffed and polished within an inch of their lives. When you leave the salon your legs look longer - due to the swelling banishing foot and ankle massage - and feel lighter and brighter.
With a glossy brand new pedicure, every pair of sandals, heels or even flip flops looks more stylish. Find the right salon for you and perfectly polished toes will be yours for 3 or 4 weeks - result.
Pedi Planning:
- Always wear flip flops to leave the salon, never be temped to shove your brand new toes into heels
- Avoid swimming or baths the night of your pedi
- Trends in Summer 2011 are for baby pink, hot pink or even neutral shades
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Hong Kong Blow Dry’s
You can buy all the dresses you like, carry the heaviest most expensive handbag you can find - nothing will make you look more glamorous that a crazy cool glossy gorgeous blow out!
Whether you want your hair to be sleek, or glam amazon big-alicious, few women can achieve seriously fab hair at home...it’s time to find yourself true hair stylist that will transform you on command.
In summer in HK, hair is flattened with the humidity and to conquer this you need the experts. Marek, the hair master on Wellington Street, Central has a glamorous following of blow dry darlings who are crazy about the La Biosthetique wonder products that are exclusive at his salon. ‘The blowdry lasts longer, has more body and is more lifted - they are particularly excellent for fine hair that needs extra bounce’ says Marek.
For serious frizz, the Keratin Smoothing Service, using Global Keratin products from Florida, USA gives a shiny glossy coating to outside the cuticle preventing humidity from going in. It only takes 1.5 hours and lasts up to 3 months.
Whatever your hair type in 2011 groomed and glossy hair is a breeze to achieve - go forth and conquer bad hair days for good now!
- Keep your blow dried locks picture perfect by keep your hands off them. If you need to move your hair then flick your head - dramatically of course!
- Longer lasting perfection happens by avoid washing and instead getting a quality dry shampoo.
- Snooze on a silk pillow to maintain princess worthy hair
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