Travel Logs

Thursday, September 4, 2014

HKG: Top 10 Kids' Bookstores: Favorite Reading Rooms

by Little Steps Asia Aug 28, 2014

A good bookstore is a destination for the imagination! From storytelling magic to the best deals on used books for kids, Little Steps has put together the top recommendations for exploring kid-friendly bookstores in the city. Pick up your kiddo’s next bedtime story at one of these top picks and enjoy!

ESLITE BOOKSTORE

A big box bookstore from Taiwan, Eslite’s stunning space in Hysan Place isn’t just a retail space but a megastore with a cafe and restaurant. There are books on virtually every subject, and there’s a good selection of English books for kids, too. If your wee ones need to stock up on school supplies, make a beeline to their stationary department for cutesy pens and notepads, and anything else they may need.
Eslite, 8/F-10/F, Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, +852 3419 6789

FLOW BOOKSHOP

When you teach your kids the “3Rs”, make sure you set an example on reduce, reuse, recycle by bringing their unloved books, DVDs, CDs and games to Flow Bookshop. The store has a special kid’s section - two, giant, floor-to-ceiling shelves stocked with everything that suitable for kids under 12. Let them run wild, while you sort through the latest arrivals.
Flow Bookshop, 1A Wing On Bldg, 38 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2964 9483

POLLUX BOOKS

Take the whole gang over to Ap Lei Chau and spend a few hours sorting through the vast collection at Pollux Books. Unlike other big box stores, here, they focus on your kids first with wall-to-wall shelves stocked full of picture books, educational booklets and audio books. There’s plenty fun reads that your little ones will love and cherish for years to come, the difficulty lies in choosing!
Pollux Books, Rm 2101, 21/F, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing St, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong, +852 2873 6962

LEISURE BOOKSHOP

There’s lots and lots to browse through at this Saikung secondhand bookshop, and if you feel at a loss for choosing, take a break and hangout with the store’s pet calico cat. They have a vast collection of youth fiction, as well as a good selection of illustrated books for kids. The best part is, you never really know what you’re going to get because new donations arrive daily. It’s also a good place to bring your unwanted books or simply add to your library.
Leisure Bookshop, 32A, G/F, Po Tung Rd, Saikung, Hong Kong, +852 2791 9629

BOOK and CO.

A relaxing little enclave for book lovers of all sorts, Book and Co is conveniently located in the Mid-Levels and is chock-a-block stuffed with books for every age. There’s plenty of books for adults, teens and ‘tweens and a limited selection for your mini bookworms. Plus, there’s a cute and cosy cafe to tuck into cake with a cuppa tea for a much needed break from all that shopping!
Book & Co., 10 Park Rd, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong, +852 2559 5199

SWINDON BOOKS

There’s something truly wonderful about Swindon Books, and it’s hard to put a finger on the reason. It may be because of its well organised and easy to navigate aisles, or the it’s laid back vibe that invites you to flip through and read a few pages... The selection of books isn’t huge, but it’s carefully chosen and it spans many subjects. The ground floor has English books while the upstairs has English and Chinese.
Swindon Books, 13-15 Lock Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852 2366 8001

BOOKAZINE PRINCE'S BUILDING

This bookstore chain needs little introduction, and if you’re a parent and isn’t familiar with their location in the Prince’s Building, you really need to acquaint yourself. That particular branch does regular story time, book launches and all sorts of dandy events that inspire your child’s love for reading. Visit their website and see what are their upcoming events.

Bookazine Prince’s Building, Shop 309, Prince's Building, 10 Chater Rd, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2522 1785

BOOKSMART

If your Lord of the Rings trilogy is collecting dust and you’re looking for more updated reads, trade them in to BooksMart in Sheung Wan, a shop tucked away on the upper floor of an office building, which carries new and old books in English. There are books on virtually anything, including audio books, parenting, young adult novels and more.

BooksMart, Rm 1604, 16/F, Western Centre, 48 Des Voeux Rd West, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, +852 2630 5035

MIRTH HOME

Located in an industrial building in Wong Chuk Hang, Mirth is a one-stop shop for all of your needs from cutesy outfits and accessories to home wares for the perfect childhood room. They also have a small but well edited selection of books, with a great selection of beautifully illustrated books that junior will love, and also other coffee table books for mom.
Mirth Home, 23 Wong Chuk Hang Rd, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, +852 2553 9811

BASHEER DESIGN BOOKS

Bring your budding picassos to Basheer Books for a vast collection of art and design books. This is a bookstore for ‘tweens and teens interested in architecture, design, art and comics, or mommas and pappas looking for interesting reads or just beautifully bound coffee table books to show off your highbrow interests. There’s also nicenotebooks and stationary to stock up on.
Basheer Design Books, 1/F, Flat A, Island Building 439-441 Hennessy Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, +852 2126 7533

HKG: Order-In Food Delivery

by Appetite Urgency published on 04 September 2014

Too busy to whip up something in the kitchen but you can’t stomach another cup-a-noodle? Let these delivery services come to the rescue! Little Steps has compiled a list of our favorite food delivery options around town. Sit back, relax and let the food come to you!

FOOD BY WEB

With over 300 eatery listings complete with menus, you can now weigh your lunch or dinner options with this easy-to-use website. Select from cuisines spanning the globe, from Chinese, Indian and Thai to Western favorites. There are plenty of well-known restaurants linked to the site, including Soho Spice, Pizza Express and Mr Taco Truck.
Food By Web, +852 2805 1131

FOODPANDA

The leading global food delivery service with its fleet of zippy mopeds brings dinner straight to your door. It has signed up a large selection of restaurants including MANA!, eat Right, Maya Cafe, K-Roll, Sugo Sushi, and Bao Wow, to name a few. Foodpanda delivers straight to the office or direct to your door at home. They also have a mobile app that makes ordering food as streamlined as possible for Hong Kong locals and expats alike.
Food Panda, +852 3051 9292

DELIVERY HK

Bringing everything edible from desserts, detox & juices, groceries, meals from restaurants, and even wine & spirits all under one roof, this visually-appealing website with beautiful photography makes browsing a breeze. Top picks include Chef Patrick Deli, Just Green, Kelly's Cape Bop, and Happy Cow. They currently deliver to offices only but is looking to deliver to homes starting next year.
Delivery, +852 3477 7777

CUISINE COURIER

A great online ordering service that allows you to pick your location - Hong Kong or Kowloon side from the get-go. Restaurants are clearly listed with the type of cuisine they serve, while the selection of restaurants they have on hand promises a great meal - selection includes BLT Burger, Dressed Salads, El Taco Loco and Ayuthaiya.
Cuisine Courier, +852 2596 0000

DIAL-A-DINNER

Dial-a-Dinner delivers to most areas in Hong Kong Island, the Southside, and Kowloon with a minimum order for lunch and dinnertime deliveries ranging from HK$100 to HK$150. Restaurants on their roster includes everything from Grappa’s Cellar and Habibi Cafe, to Malaymama and Mr Bing. It also delivers emergency items such as batteries, toiletries and ice from its online convenience store and wine from its online wine cellar.
Dial-a-Dinner, +852 2598 1718

FOOD BY FONE

With a whole host of restaurants covering all the bases, from Sichuan at Chili Fagara, to Chicken on the Run and Kyoto Jo, Food Fone can deliver to just about everywhere in Hong Kong. You can even order a whole host of different dishes to suit every palate in the family - junior can tuck into a burger from Caliburger while mom and dad start with ahealthy salad from Life Cafe.
Food By Fone, +852 2868 6969, info@foodbyfone.net

SAV'S COOKING

Fancy a home-cooked Indian meal without all the fuss? Every Sunday, Sav Sinslow prepares and delivers a set menu of meat or vegetarian dishes using only the best organic ingredients from her home kitchen. Sav also runs private and group cooking classes. Check on her Facebook page for more info.
Sav’s Cooking, +852 9311 9273

PIZZERIA ITALIA

Skip Pizza Hut and get Pizzeria Italia on your speed dial for a yummy pizza pie in under 30 minutes. Their 33 pizzas made fresh-to-order, including specialities like their Gamberoni - a thin-crusted margherita pizza with fresh prawns or Fior di Latte with fresh mozzarella cheese are must-tries. Complete the meal with soups, salads, ribs and chicken. Their deliveries by FoodXpress promises no detours, bringing the pies straight to you.
Pizzeria Italia, 43 High Street, Sai Ying Pun, +852 2525 2519

WE ALSO LIKE
* Invisible Kitchen - By the people behind Hong Kong Personal Chef, this is your answer to hosting at home a fresh wholesome dinner without lifting a finger.

* Food Happy - Groovy new snack boxes delivered weekly.

* Koziness - By the people from Dial-A-Dinner and Soho Delivery, this app & site is a trusty ordering-in staple.

* Secret Ingredient - Fresh ingredients chopped and prepared so you can whip-up a meal in no time.

* Don't forget, it's always worth asking your favorite neighborhood restaurant if they deliver!

Sunday, February 23, 2014

Paris, France: Where to Find Bargains in Paris--Designer Discount Stores and Depot-Ventes

If strolling amongst the designer boutiques on the rue Faubourg Saint-Honore or Champs Elysees tugs at your heartstrings but would break your purse strings, don’t settle for cheap goods or knock-offs—there is another way. You simply have to know where to get those coveted designer brands at a discount. Yes, even Paris has discount malls and stores throughout the city. There are two ways to get the bling without the bang—know where the designer outlet stores are for new things, and discover the wonderful world of depot-vente shopping for barely worn haute couture for a fraction of the price.

DISCOUNT MALLS - Outside Paris
If you’re looking for Paris styles at a discount, you’ll want to plan to visit the best outlet malls outside of the city. If your time is limited, visit the websites for the outlet malls below to find the one with the most brand names of interest and plan a day trip accordingly.

1.) LA VALLEE VILLAGE

Basically, La Vallee Village is heaven on earth for designer goods bargain hunters. It is located at the stop just before Paris’ Euro Disneyland. You purchase your ticket in the appropriate train station, and then carefully figure out which platform on which to wait. The trains come about every 10 minutes. You want to go to the Val d’Europe/Serris Montevrain station. It is the next to the last stop, the last being Disney. Once you exit, you literally walk out of the train station and go directly across into a large covered 2-floor shopping mall. This is not La Vallee Village, but it is a lovely mall where you can get most anything, including groceries.

La Vallee Village—Designer Discount Mall
This 90-store mall is designed with a village setting and has more high-end brands than its competitors. You walk all the way straight through this mall and arrive at the picturesque outdoor designer discount mall, La Vallee Village. Everything from Longchamp, Dior, Givenchy, Burberry, Lancel, Armani, Diane Von Furstenberg, Valentino, Missoni, Versace, Furla, Lacoste and many, many more iconic designers have outlet boutiques in this delightful designer discount village. Remember to ask for the detaxe forms if you spend more than about $500 in any one store. It is a perfect place to buy holiday gifts or stock up on gifts for the year. Often you save 50% or more on last season’s clothing and accessories, which is a bargain. I always load up at the Longchamp store and buy the foldable, packable, indestructible bags for everyone I know (men and women). You can even get a discount on your train ticket by going to the welcome center. It is truly one of the best-kept Paris shopping secrets!

Getting there. There is a huge and marvelous discount mall just minutes from the center of Paris, and easily accessible by train—La Vallee Village (http://www.lavalleevillage.com). The RER is basically the Metro; only it goes farther outside the city, so you can only catch it at certain larger stations. Any Metro station will connect you with a station to catch the train—such as Gare de Lyon.

La Vallée Village offers a Shopping Express bus service with departures two times per day from Place des Pyramides near the Louvre Museum in the 1st arrondissement. To book your tickets, visit the La Vallée Village website below. For a day of shopping without the hassle of figuring out transportation, contact the Paris Perfect office and to put you in touch with our favorite driver who offers a fixed price service to La Vallée Village.

To get there by RER, TGV, Thalys or Eurostar train: get off at the Marne-la-Vallée Chessy / Parc Disneyland station. Then take the RER A4, towards Paris, exit at Val d'Europe / Serris Montévrain station (only one stop away).
Website: www.lavalleevillage.com
Address: 3 Cours de la Garonne, 77700, Serris
Opening Hours: Daily (except Christmas Day, New Year's Day and May 1st) from 10am to 7pm

2.) TROYES (McArthur-Glen Troyes)

This is France's largest outlet-mall hub, just outside the medieval town of Troyes in the province of Champagne. There are other large outlet malls a bit farther outside of the city, most notably in Troyes, with both huge individual outlet stores for brands such as Lacoste, as well a combined in large malls; but they are harder to reach by public transportation. Troyes is a charming old town with half-timbered buildings and a delightful history, and the best way to get there is to rent a car, then spend some time in the ancient town, as well as the outlet malls. Shoppers have three malls to choose from, the biggest and best being home to 84 stores, including Lacoste, Kookai and Calvin Klein. From Paris' Gare de l'Est, it's about 1.5 hours by train to Troyes. But if your plan is to power-shop your way through all three Troyes outlet centers, it's much more practical to rent a car.
Website: www.mcarthurglen.fr
Address: Voie du Bois, Pont-Sainte Marie, Troyes
Opening Hours: Monday - Friday from 10am to 7pm and Saturday from 9:30am to 7pm

Marques Avenue: Troyes

The large outlet mall includes Hugo Boss, Etam, Naf-Naf and outlet shops for many trendy French chain stores.
Website : www.marquesavenue.com
Address: 114 blvd. de Dijon, St-Julien les Villas, Troyes

3.) MARQUES AVENUE: L'ILE SAINT DENIS

This popular mall has mainly mid-priced labels with familiar names you’ll recognize. To get there, take the Métro Line 13 to Mairie de Saint-Ouen, then take Bus No. 166 towards Saint-Ouen and get off at the Marcel Paul stop (at the corner of platform Châtelier).
Website: www.marquesavenue.com
Address: 8/9 quai du Châtelier 93450 L'Ile-Saint-Denis
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday from 10 am to 7 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm.

Discount Stores within Paris
1.) RUE D'ALESSIA
All it takes is the Metro to get to an area within Paris with an entire street of outlet stores, rue d’Alessia. Here you can find a wide variety of very high end and some lower end designer outlet shops—such as Sonia Rykiel and other iconic French labels. It isn’t the greatest of areas; so don’t plan to be there alone after dark. On the Left Bank, there are several “Filene’s Basement” types of grab and scramble shops such as Le Mouton a Cinq Pattes (the 5-footed sheep). These have bits and pieces of very high-end brands, but it is catch as catch can. There is also a street (Saint Placide) quite near the very pricey Left Bank department store Bon Marche that is filled with discount stores. One of my favorites in all of Paris is Le Clef (the key), which is located within walking distance of the back entrance to the Luxembourg Gardens. It, too, is often a jumble, but carries a huge variety of very high-end goods for children, men, women, luggage, shoes, handbags, sunglasses, lingerie, etc. I once got a $4000 leather jacket there (Lanvin)—original Lanvin price tag still on it—for $150! My husband has had similar luck, and we always go back there.

2.) CHANEL OUTLET
Chanel
42 Avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France
PH: +33 1 47 23 74 12
OR
25 Rue Royale, 75008 Paris, France
PH: +33 1 44 51 92 93

Biggest Chanel Branches -
Chanel Paris, 31 rue Cambon 75001 Paris 1er
AND
40 avenue Montaigne 75008 Zip: 75001 and 75008 Paris - France
Hours : M-Sat 10am-7pm T: +33-1- 42 86 28 00

Depot-Ventes within Paris
But, probably my very favorite way to shop in Paris is to go to depot-vente stores. These are usually very high-end consignment shops for designer wear. Parisian women often wear $6000 Chanel jackets once or twice, and then consign them. The better shops take designer buttons off so they can’t be stolen, and give them to you when you purchase. You will get a minimum of 50% off last year’s runway fashions (usually a LOT more), which look brand new. I once did get a $6000 Chanel jacket for $300. It is my pride and joy, and I have several other treasures obtained this way, including vintage but spectacular Hermes scarves, Louis Vuitton and Chanel handbags, Burberry coats, Chanel belts—amazing buys on things in perfect condition that I only dreamed of owning.

Throughout the years, I have probably been to most of the known and tripped-over depot-vente stores in Paris. Even given the unpredictable supply situation in any consignment or “recycled” boutiques, which is totally dependent on when something is consigned and the size of the person consigning (most stylish French women seem to wear the equivalent of our sizes 2-4), I have written several off, due to being uninteresting or too high-priced after my repeated visits. There is usually no room to bargain in these shops, as the consignee is contracted to receive a certain amount of the sale price.

1.) ANNA LOWE
Probably the best known and certainly the most prominently located Depot-Ventes is Anna Lowe, easily located just as you enter the chic rue Faubourg Saint-Honore (104) from the Champs Elysees. Her shop is quite upscale, and the price tags reflect the high overhead for such a well-placed shop. I have never bought anything there, and have always done much better elsewhere. I was extremely disappointed when one year I saw her capitalizing on tourist greed by selling knock-offs of Hermes’ iconic Birkin bag for about 600 Euro. That (selling knockoffs), is unforgivable, and belies the moneymaking nature of this particular depot-vente. Most others, especially little “hole in the wall” places, take great pride in presenting only the authentic article. In general, the higher-rent the boutique, the worse the bargains. But, if you really want something you see there, better grab it, as it will still be a bargain.

2.) RECIPROQUE
Certainly the largest of the depot-vente stores is really a group of stores, divided into shops by category. Reciproque is in an elegant area of Paris, and is easily reached by Metro. It actually takes up both sides of nearly an entire block. This is the mother of all depot-ventes, and tends to have more of everything. There is a shop for vintage jewelry, one for designer scarves and umbrellas, another for luggage, one for designer handbags, the largest for women’s designer clothing and shoes, and an entire large store dedicated to men—designer jackets, pants, accessories, ties, shoes, coats, shirts, briefcases—plenty for the men to do while the women work their way through the many other Reciproque shops. Bargains are definitely to be had, and they are very particular about the quality and condition of the goods they accept and sell; but, the prices may not be the very best you will find. However, the selection is the most vast; and, bargains are fleeting, so if you see something you want, you are unlikely to find it elsewhere. I have bought $6000 Chanel jackets for $300, vintage gold lockets and silver chains for a bargain, Hermes scarves for less than half of their original price (but look new, and even come with the box!), designer handbags, wallets, accessories; and my husband bought a great Burberry raincoat and several designer jackets. We never go to Paris without at least one trip to Reciproque. Here, however, as in most depot-ventes, there is no bargaining—the price is what it is, and it is a bargain. The clothing generally looks new, as do the scarves. The designer handbags may show some wear, but they are still a bargain, as well.

So, before you plunge yourself into debt on the pricey streets of Paris, look at the many other less expensive options open to you, if you know where to look!

************************************************************************
Credits: Judith Nelson , Denver Travel Examiner (via Examiner.com's posting dated July 19, 2012), ParisPerfect.com

Paris, France: Where to stay in Paris and other attractions

by Jane Atkin, part of Lonely Planet's online editorial team.
This article was first published in February 2012 and was updated in July 2012.

Paris is a very compact city, so no matter where you decide to stay you’ll be able to get around the rest of town without too much trouble.

The rive gauche or left bank generally refers to the Paris south of the Seine. Some of its most famous streets are the Boulevard Saint-Germain, the Boulevard Saint-Michel and the Rue de Rennes. The left bank is associated with Bohemia and creativity.

North of the Seine, the rive droit or right bank is associated with elegance and sophistication. The right bank's most famous street is the Champs-Élysées, but there are others of prominence, such as Rue de la Paix, Rue de Rivoli and Avenue Montaigne.

Starting at Kilometre Zero in front of Notre Dame, Paris is divided into 20 arondissements (districts). The numbering spirals from 1 to 20 in a clockwise direction from the front of the cathedral. The usual French notation is 1er for premier (1st), 2e for deuxieme (2nd), 3e for troisieme (3rd) and so on.

Each arondissement has a distinct personality. The 1er is full of sights but few residents; the 5th is studenty; the 7e full of ministries and embassies; the 10e was traditionally working-class but has succumbed to gentrification; the 16th is the bastion of the well-heeled.

Louvre & Les Halles (1er and 2e) is the district for museum lovers and the very heart of Paris. Île de la Cité (4e and 1er) is the site of the first settlement in Paris (c 3rd century BC) and home to Notre Dame. Île de St-Louis (4e) is an oasis of calm away from the din of the city.

The Latin Quarter (5e) is known for its literary heritage (being favoured by Hemingway, Fitzgerald and other members of the creative community) and continues to provide a lively backdrop to city life. St-Germain (6e) & Invalides (7e) oozes panache and is the best district for those that have shopping at the top of their list of things to do in Paris.

Once you’ve climbed the Eiffel Tower (16e), you might like to get away from the crowds by taking a stroll through the gardens nearby at the Bois de Boulogne (or go rowing on the lakes). To get a view of the Champs-Élysées (8e) & Grand Boulevards (8e and 9e) climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe.

For picture postcard Paris, where everyone paints, wears a beret and sings to accordion music, head up to Montmartre (18e). Head to the Marais (4e) & Ménilmontant for the city’s hip drinking scene and fun for night owls. The area around the Bastille (11e) & Gare de Lyon used to be notorious for its high crime rate, but today you can spend time browsing the flea markets and people watching.

Avoid Montparnasse (14e) with its pricey eating establishments. Head eastwards to Chinatown (13e) for a colourful, multiracial taste of Paris today.

The table below will guide you through the sights, shopping, museum and galleries on offer in each distinct district of Paris.

Area	Sights	Museums & galleries	Shopping
Louvre & Les Halles	Centre Pompidou Église St-Eustache Passages Couverts	Musée du Louvre Les Art Décoratifs Musée de l’Orangerie	L’Ecritoire E Dehillerin Boîtes à Musique Anna Joliet
Latin Quarter	Panthéon Mosquée de Paris Sorbonne	Institut du Monde Arabe Musée National d’Histoire Naturelle Musée National du Moyen Age	Shakespeare & Company Magie
St-Germain & Invalides	Église St-Sulpice Église St-Germain des Pres Institute de France	Foundation Dubuffet Musée National Eugene Delacroix Pièce Unique Variations	Pâtisserie Sadaharu Aoki Bonton Bazat La Dernière Goutte Le Dépôt-Vente de Buci
Eiffel Tower &16e	Eiffel Tower Bois de Boulogne CinéAqua	Musée du Quai Branly Musée Marmotta-Monet Cite de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine
Champs-Elysees & Grands Boulevards	Arc de Triomphe Av des Champs-Élysées Palais Garnier	Grand Palais Musée National Gustave Moreau La Pinacothèque	Galeries Lafayette Place de la Madeleine Guerlain
Montmartre, Pigalle & 17e	Basilique du Sacre Cœur Place du Tertre Cimetière de Montmartre	Musée de la Vie Romantique Musée Jacquemart-André Musée Nissim de Camondo	Ets Lion La Citadelle
Marais & Ménilmontant	Place des Vosges Pletzl Cimetière du Père Lachaise	Musée Carnavalet Musée des Arts et Métiers Maison de Victor Hugo	Sic Amor CSAO Boutique & Gallery Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore
Bastille & Gare de Lyon	Cinémathèque Française Viaduc des Arts Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir	Maison Rouge Cite Nationale de l’Histoire de l’Immigration Maison de Jardinage	Marche aux Puce d’Aligre La Maison du Cerf-Volant Fermob

Want a bit more detail on the City of Light? Look no further:

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

HKG: Breastfeeding out and about in Hong Kong: The ‘6 P’s’ to ensure success when nursing in public

I love this! This will definitely help and I hope my friends who read this take heed of the very last two lines of the article, that I highlighted.
Note: for Hong Kong nursing Rooms, I have a compiled list of updated nursing rooms in HKG that you can find here.

**************************************
Article from Sassy Mama HK dated 11 September 2013
Written by Conchita Amende

So, you’re at home with your newborn, and you have chosen to breastfeed exclusively – congratulations! The
feeding is going well at home, with nobody to please but yourselves…
but there comes a time when go out you must, for your sanity, if nothing else! At this point breastfeeding in public can seem like a daunting task.

It doesn’t have to be scary. Remember that at this early stage, your baby is at their most portable, and as long as you
are there, they will be happy. Breastfeeding whilst out of the home is far more convenient than having to tote bottle-feeding paraphernalia around with you. Yet it is something that many new mothers dread, and ultimately avoid. A few tips can make it bearable… even enjoyable!

Plan. Make sure your little one is fed and happy when you leave home, and try to plan your trip around the time you know they are most settled. Plan to be near “civilization” when you know they will need the next feed. A hungry, screaming baby in the middle of the supermarket is not much fun for anyone.
Prepare. Know your surroundings, and do a little asking around about the best places to stop and feed. There are many pleasant feeding rooms in Hong Kong (check out Sassy Mama’s Guide to Hong Kong’s best feeding and changing rooms here!),and you are never too far from a coffee shop, which can offer a comfy chair and a welcome break. Of course, breastfeeding is positively encouraged at Annerley and mums are always welcome to pop in for a feed! If all else fails, a clothing store changing room can offer a quiet corner for a quick pit stop.
Privacy. We all know breast is best, but in a city like Hong Kong it is inevitable that feeding in public is going to get you some looks.Everyone has heard stories of breastfeeding mums being asked to leave a café, mall or museum, but there are many women who have happily fed all over Hong Kong with no problem at all. Feeling anxious can hinder your ability to nurse, so do what you need to when it comes to feeling comfortable about feeding your baby. There are some wonderful nursing covers on the market, or a light sarong, shawl or muslin square is often enough to provide a little privacy. There are also some very clever nursing tops out there too. Be kind to yourself, and wear clothing that is easy to pull up or down without the extra stress of exposing yourself in public.
Protection. Even if you have never needed breast pads before, it is a good idea to have some handy the first few times you venture beyond your comfort zone. Delays, stress, and unfamiliar environments can sometimes lead to leakage!
Practice. Have a mock outing whilst at home. Practice feeding without your favourite pillow or cushion, sitting up on a hard-backed chair. Hong Kong’s streets being as they are, baby slings or carriers are very popular here, and it is entirely possible to feed baby within the carrier – the trick is to release the straps whilst sitting down so baby can be repositioned. Try it a few times and you’ll soon get the hang of it!
Persevere. Your first experience may not be a wonderful one, but keep going – it will get easier the more you do it. Look confident, because looking confident will make you feel it. Before you know it, you’ll be feeding standing up! You are doing the very best thing for your little one and never let anyone push you into feeding in a toilet.
Be polite, considerate, respectful but firm. Feeding your baby is a human right.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Conchita Amende, Annerley Helper & Parent Academy Principal,
qualified as a State Registered Nurse in England in 1982 and has
continued to work and study for the past 28 years in different areas of
health and education such as ante and post natal care, special care baby
units, health education, and as an assessor and external verifier. She
has been working in the community with families (with children under 5)
for the last 9 years as a Specialist Community Public Health Nurse
(Health Visitor UK), and also lectures at universities. As well as her
nursing qualifications, she has practiced as a registered midwife in the
UK, has a post-graduate diploma in health promotion, has training certifications and is currently working towards her certification as a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Conchita has 3 grown-up children, speaks a little French and loves to have a chance to practice! She loves living in Hong Kong and having the opportunity to explore Asia and meet new people.

Friday, August 23, 2013

HKG: Family-Friendly Coffee Shops

As recommended from LittleStepsAsia.com

Everyone needs a good roast (especially mom and dad). Hanging out at coffee shops has officially become a family phenomenon. With coloring books, crayons, and babyccinos, the wee ones will stay entertained while you get your caffeine fix! Prepare to perk up with java joints, coffee clubs, and hidden roasting shops with the Little Steps guide to kid-friendly coffee hangouts in Hong Kong. Sip, slurp...smile!

CAFE LOISL

Venture to this charming cafe tucked away on a Sheung Wan backstreet and feel as if you’ve escaped to Vienna for an afternoon. Enjoy sitting outside on the quiet street, or grab a spot inside this beautifully decorated cafe. Go for the creamy cappuccino and spoil your little ones silly with the chocolate Linzer tart or apple strudel—make sure they save you a bite!
Cafe Loisl, Tai On Terrace, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, +852 9179 0209

PO'S ATELIER

Famous for their delicious baked goods, Po’s has transformed the back of the bakery into a cafe serving simple sandwiches, salads and baked goods for lunch and weekend brunch. Grab a bite and a cup of strong coffee for a laid-back Sunday afternoon in this green part of Sheung Wan. While you're in the area, treat the kids to a play at nearby Caine Road Garden playground!
Po's Atelier, 70 Po Hing Fong, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, +852 6056 8005

PERCY'S

This popular catering company turned cafe now calls swanky Lane Crawford at One Island South its new home. Percy's offers tasty sandwiches, salads and freshly made soups, plus good coffee and sweet treats. Nab some seats at the communal table for you and junior to refuel after some shopping in the mall. Also check out the Library Cafe at Lane Crawford Harbour City!
Percy's, Lane Crawford, One Island South, 2 Hung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, +852 3427 9498
The Library Cafe, Lane Crawford, 3 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852 2118 4530

THE CUPPING ROOM

Bring the whole crew over to The Cupping Room—Southside’s hottest coffee shop with a Chocolate Room to boot! Owner Derek Chui, runner up to the Hong Kong Barista Championship in 2011, offers top-notch coffee plus a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for Stanley’s seaside environment. Though the cafe can become overrun on weekends, head there on a weekday afternoon and the place is all yours!
The Cupping Room Stanley, 207 Stanley Plaza, Stanley, Hong Kong, +852 9316 1980
The Cupping Room Sheung Wan, 299 Queen's Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, +852 9316 1980

CHAIWANESE

Unlike other cafes that don’t give enough romping room for your little rascals, Chaiwanese is housed in a huge industrial building in Chai Wan, which boasts stunning sea and mountain views. Beyond the cool interiors, it has excellent coffee and food options, and is nearby to Chai Wan Park. Don’t leave without trying their five-spiced pulled pork sandwich!
Chaiwanese, Unit 1307, Phase 1, Chai Wan Industrial City, 60 Wing Tai Road, Chai Wan, Hong Kong, +852 3698 0935

BARISTA JAM

If your kids can sit still for the duration of a coffee then they’re in for a treat at Barista Jam! Sit along the bar to watch the baristas in action, or spread out at the cafe's communal tables. There’s delicious made-to-order breakfast plates and sandwiches, hot chocolates, and desserts that will keep your kids in their seats, while you enjoy a delicious espresso or shop for a brand new espresso maker.
Barista Jam, Shop D, G/F, 126-128 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, +852 2854 2211

KNOCKBOX

Knockbox left Sheung Wan and found a new home in Mong Kok, where they offer still bold espressos and creamy lattes. Everyone will love the delicious cakes and baked goodies from J’aime Bien Patisserie. Plus, kids will be wowed by the numerous contraptions, such as a bean roaster and the Marco Über Boiler that looks more like a Mad Scientist’s lab than a coffee maker!
Knockbox, G/F, 21 Hak Po Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong

ESLITE BOOK STORE

One of Hong Kong's newest bookstores, Eslite takes up two entire floors of Hysan Place, including a large children's section. This Taiwanese bookstore chain understands not only the importance of a good book but also a strong cup of coffee. Leaf through the best literature and then stop by the cafe with your new books. Good reads, coffee, and snacks...perfect!

Eslite Book Store, 8/F- 10/F, Hysan Place, 500 Hennessey Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, +852 3419 6788

C.C. CAFE

There are a lot shops springing up in Sai Kung - what with the laid-back feel of the town away from the city, it’s no surprise. C.C. Cafe does it right with its cute little boutique vibe on happening See Cheung Street. You'll enjoy the beautiful free-hand foam art, and outdoor seating. If your little ones’ tummies are rumbling, there are also plenty of lunch options, too!
C.C. Cafe, G/F, 33 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong, +852 9810 4261, c.c.cafe@live.com

THE COFFEE ACADEMICS

The beautiful interiors are attention grabbing, and so too is the price for a cup of coffee here. If you’ve got a few hours to burn in Causeway Bay, this coffee shop and roaster is well worth a visit. They do a nice cup of filter coffee, and they also have lunch sets and coffee-tasting classes! Check out their new location in Wan Chai as well, with fab outdoor seating, snacks, and babyccinos!
The Coffee Academics CB, 38 Yui Wa Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, +852 2156 0313
The Coffee Academics Wan Chai, 38-45 Johnston Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong, +852 2154 1180

INITIAL CAFE

This hip Japanese-style clothing store cum cafe and restaurant is a popular hangout amongst the TST crowd. Browse through fashionable ensembles in the shop, and then take a seat in the cafe for a cuppa java and a slice of cake, or even a complete lunch set. If you and your mini fashionista are jonesing for a break and just happen to be in TST, this is a good pit stop!
Initial Cafe, Shop 2, G/F, 48 Cameron Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852 2311 4223

OTHER COOL CAFES TO EXPLORE:

* Accro, Shop 10, G/F, Fu Loy Garden, 7 Ma Wang Road, Yuen Long, Hong Kong, +852 3484 9448

* % Arabica Coffee Roaster & Farm, Shop 08, DB North Plaza, Discovery Bay, Hong Kong

* Boulangerie Bistronomique, Shop 1, G/F, Grand Fortune Mansion, 1 Davis Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, +852 2872 0811.

* Cafe Corridor, G/F, 26A, Russell Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, +852 2858 8153

* Cafe Lavande, 4 Prince's Terrace, Midlevels, Hong Kong, +852 2537 7998

* Capo's Espresso, G/F, 4 Gilman's Bazaar, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2545 9128

* CoCo Espresso, G/F, 2 Anton Street, Wan Chai and 197 Queen's Road, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2542 2228,

* Classified, Locations throughout Hong Kong

* Colour Brown, G/F, 34 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong, +852 2791 7128

* Crema, Shop LG17, Hilton Tower, 96 Granville Road, TST East, Hong Kong, +852 2369 0338

* Holly Brown, Multiple locations including 22 Stanley Street, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2869 9008

* Homei Cafe, G/F, 22-24A Tai Ping Shan Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, +852 2857 9991

* Saffron Bakery Cafe, 24 Square Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, +852 2806 2131, locations throughout Hong Kong.

* Tree Cafe, 28/F Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong, + 852 2870 1582

Thursday, August 22, 2013

HKG: Cheap Family Hotels and Service Apartments

Posting @ LittleStepsAsia.com

Let’s face it: as much as you’d love to entertain every friend and family member passing through town, itsy bitsy Hong Kong flats just can’t accommodate. So, next time granny and grandpa want to visit the wee ones, or your Aunt Sally wants to bring her entire family of five along, consider one of the moderately priced hotels and serviced apartments.

THE GARDENVIEW: Central

Gran and Gramps looking to stay near The Peak and Mid-levels? The YWCA-run Gardenview hotel on MacDonell Road offers guests access to the gym and outdoor pool, plus picturesque panoramas from most rooms. The affordable hotel is situated within walking distance to many of the city’s top sights including The Peak Tram and HK Zoological and Botanical Gardens.
The Gardenview, 1 MacDonnell Road, Hong Kong, +852 2877 3737.
*They currently have special rates that include admissions to Disneyland running till the end of August. Also note, the YWCA provides a baby equipment rental service where guests can rent baby and kid supplies - strollers, cots, and toys for short and long-stays.

HOTEL ICON: Tsim Sha Tsui East

Design-savvy families...check this one out! Many of the city’s top design icons have been involved in this property including Rocco Yim, Sir Terence Conran, Barney Cheng, and Patrick Blanc. Part hotel, part hospitality school, this hotel offers great f&b outlets, hotel amenities, a groovy swimming pool, and a nice location for culture fans of all ages.
Hotel Icon, 17 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Hong Kong, +852 3400 1000.
*Late night bonus...there’re free snacks and bevvies in the in-room bar, as well as a Nespresso coffee maker. It is within walking distance to HK Science Museum, HK History Museum, and shopping along Granville Road

OVOLO HOTELS: Central, Aberdeen, Wong Chuk Hang.

The sleek décor and modern furnishings at Ovolo, make for a chic family stay. There are definite perks to staying in Ovolo’s compact rooms: WiFi, breakfast, free self-serviced laundry, and free-flow happy hours drinks for mom and dad are all included in the price of the stay. Ovolo has hotels and serviced residences (for longer stays) throughout the city!
Ovolo, in Central, Sheung Wan, Sai Ying Pun and more locations across Hong Kong, +852 2165 1000

CHI 138: Sai Ying Poon

This boutique hotel skips on the fussy excesses and gives you exactly what you need. CHI 138 has 50 open-plan suites (including dedicated Baby Safe Apartments) that look out onto sweeping vistas of Victoria Harbor. What’s more is that you can meet up for an impromptu picnic at nearby Sun Yat Sen park.
CHI 138, 138 Connaught Road West, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, +852 3607 3333.
*There’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained—each suite is fully equipped with an iPod dock, WiFi and a DVD player and Hi-Fi system so that kids can tune into their favorite films.

CROWNE PLAZA EAST KOWLOON: Tseung Kwan O

Everyone who’s anyone coming to visit Clearwater Bay dwellers...fret not! Now, with three new hotels sprouting up in close by Tseung Kwan O, there’re no more excuses. The Crowne Plaza, with an idyllic Sense of Touch spa, makes it a top choice. The hotel offers a peaceful retreat, large rooms, and lots of outdoor space for the kidlings to explore.
Crowne Plaza, Tower 5, 3 Tong Tak St, Tseung Kwan O, Hong Kong, +852 3989 0388
*The hotel is located in the MTR station making it a breeze to bring the whole pack along to the city’s top attractions

AUBERGE DISCOVERY BAY: Discovery Bay

DB-dwellers really had it hard for a while when it came to hosting guests until now. Energetic tykes can splash away in the gorgeous, palm-fringed pool or build sand castles on DB’s powdery beach. Adults deserving a break can sip on cocktails and dine at the hotel or get pampered at the hotel’s onsite spa.
Auberge Discovery Bay, 88 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay, Lantau, Hong Kong, +852 2295 8288

COURTYARD SHATIN: Shatin

Families wanting comfort without the big city price tags...are heading to Shatin! Recently opened close to Shatin’s New Town Plaza, the new Courtyard Marriott has all the conveniences of the international chain at affordable prices. There’s a spacious outdoor pool and the location offers golfers easy jaunts to The Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling and Jockey Club Kau Sai Chau public golf courses.
Courtyard Shatin, 1 On Ping Street, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, +852 3940 8888. Guests can take bike tours through the New Territories, winding your way through bustling Tai Po market, up to picturesque Tai Mei Tuk or through the rural villages to see historic ancestral houses in Yuen Long.

GOLD COAST HOTEL: Lantau Island

This gem of family fun offers a slew of kiddy activities including a kids play room, swimming pools, playgrounds, and stroller-friendly gardens for the family to explore. There is also a great beach to run around on and an organic garden where kids can get involved. It offers a great alternative to those looking to explore Disneyland, The Giant Buddha, and other island adventures.
Gold Coast Hotel, 1 Castle Peak Road, Gold Coast, Hong Kong, +852 2452 8641, info@goldcoasthotel.com.hk.
*Click here for the free shuttle bus transport schedule. Be sure to check out Thomas In Friends this summer - trains everywhere!

BUTTERFLY HOTELS: Various Locations Around HK

Fast and fuss-free family holiday-makers...are loving Butterfly Hotels! Five locations in prime spots across Hong Kong and Kowloon make this min chain a clear choice when it comes to convenience. Book three weeks ahead and enjoy 20-percent off on regular room rates. The newest location on Hollywood Road gives easy access to Soho, Central, Macau ferry terminal and Sheung Wan sites.
The Butterfly, 263 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2850 8899.

THE STANLEY ORIENTAL: Stanley

Posh parents and mini royals wanting uncompromised luxury on the Southside, are living large by renting a kitted out serviced apartment at the Stanley Oriental, which has monthly-, weekly- and daily-rental plans. It’s just a few steps from Stanley beach and boardwalk.
The Stanley Oriental, 2/F, 90B, Stanley Main Street, Stanley, Hong Kong, +852 2899 1688.
*Their largest one-bedroom apartments (units range from 500 to 1200-sq-ft) come with an expansive terrace with a hot tub overlooking the bay.

GET AN APARTMENT: All over HK!

A home away from home is now just a click away and many people are opting to go online to rent a room or a flat to themselves. Though renting out a room in a private residence is a bit of an iffy legal grey area in HK, that hasn’t stopped many people from putting their rooms and flats up on websites like Air BnB and Roomarama. Just a quick browse turned up plenty of fun options, including a farmhouse in Lantau and luxe flats in Mid-levels.
Air BNB, www.airbnb.com/Hong-Kong.
Roomarama, www.roomorama.com.