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!

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:

• Paris highlights
• A perfect day in Paris
• Hidden flavours of Paris
• A shopper’s guide to Paris
• Travelling with children?

Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/france/paris/travel-tips-and-articles/77000#ixzz2u9rk2EFn

Other Nursing Stations in the World: Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan, South Korea

The below are finds from MadPyschMum's Nursing Room Reviews, please support and go to her site for further reviews of each of the nursing rooms for a more indepth information to better equip you with your travels.

[Japan, Tokyo - Narita Airport]

Location: Next to most of the toilets
Size: Elephant-large (accommodates more than 2 strollers)
Amenities: Sink, electrical point, hot water dispenser, waiting area.
Not available: Bottle warmer, high chair.
Nursing area separated from changing area: Yes
Mode of separation: Curtains

[Malaysia, Johor Bahru - Legoland]
Location: Imagination
Size: Elephant-large (accommodates more than 2 strollers)
Amenities: Sink, electrical point, hot & cold water dispenser, waiting area, high chair, bottle-warmer, microwave
Not available: None!
Nursing area separated from changing area: Yes
Mode of separation: Curtains

[Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur - International Airport Bus Terminal]
Location: Level 1
Size: Average (accommodates only 1 stroller)
Amenities: Sink
Not available: Electrical point, hot & cold water dispenser, waiting area, bottle warmer, high chair Nursing area separated from changing area: No

[Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur - Suria KLCC]
Location: Level 2 & Concourse
Size: Elephant-large (accommodates more than 2 strollers)
Amenities: Sink, electrical point, hot water dispenser, waiting area
Not available: Bottle warmer, high chair
Nursing area separated from changing area: Yes
Mode of separation: Curtains

[South Korea, Seoul - COEX Aquarium]
Location: Kids Aquarium and various location
Size: Average (accommodates only 1 stroller)
Amenities: Electrical point, baby cot, waiting area (outside)
Not available: Sink (nearby toilets), hot & cold water dispenser, bottle warmer, high chair
Nursing area separated from changing area: Yes
Mode of separation: Curtains only

[Taiwan, Taipei - Miramar Shopping Mall]
Location: Level 4
Size: Larger than average (accommodates 2 strollers)
Amenities: Sink, hot and cold water dispenser, waiting area, high chair
Not available: Electrical point, bottle warmer
Nursing area separated from changing area: Yes
Mode of separation: Curtains

[Taiwan, Taipei - Taipei 101 Mall]
Location: Level 4
Size: Elephant-large (accommodates more than 2 strollers)
Amenities: Sink, electrical point, child-friendly toilet
Not available: Hot & cold water dispenser, waiting area, bottle warmer, high chair
Nursing area separated from changing area: No

HKG: Walk with the Animals: Sassy Mama’s guide to the best animal adventures in Hong Kong

from Sassymamahk.com July 2013 Entry

The summer holidays are in full swing, and believe it or not, Hong Kong actually has a lot to offer in the nature and wildlife department! Time to head out into some undiscovered New Territories (get it!?) with the family and bond with some animals in the summer sun. Whether it’s gazing into the sky, peeking through leaves or swimming in the ocean, we’ve rounded up the best spots to check out. So grab those binoculars, channel your inner Dr. Doolittle and get the whole family up close and personal to some furry, fishy or flying friends… right here in the ‘Kong!

WINGS
Edward Youde Bird Aviary
Hong Kong Park’s aviary has a collection of 800 birds, representing 100 species indigenous to Southeast Asia, Indonesia and New Guinea. Apart from sky-dwellers, there are also ground dwelling birds like pigeons and pheasants. Featuring an elevated walkway inside and under the tree canopy, you’ll be able to view the habitat and birds from different angles and elevations. You’ll probably be able to hear the pheasants when they let loose with their territorial calls! There’s a bird-watching programme every Wednesday morning for amateur ornithologists.
Address: 19, Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong. Tel: +(852) 2521 5041

Hong Kong Wetland Park
Check out Hong Kong’s very own world-class ecotourism park with its impressive cast of birds, butterflies, reptiles, mammals and fish! The outdoor reserve recreates the wetland habitat, with a butterfly garden, a boardwalk and three bird hides to discover. There’s also a Wetland Interactive World, with themed exhibition galleries, a theatre, resource centre and a ‘Swamp Adventure’ indoor learning and play area for some escape from the sun.
Address: Wetland Park Road, Tin Shui Wai, New Territories, Hong Kong. Tel: +(852) 2617 5218

Mai Po Nature Reserve
Popular among bird-watchers and photographers, Mai Po is home to colourful butterflies and dragonflies in the summer, as well as shrimp raised in the traditional gei wai ponds. During autumn and winter the marshes play host to thousands of migratory birds. You can explore wetlands and marshes solo, or join WWF’s year-round or seasonal Mai Po guided tours (and maybe catch some fireflies on their Night Safari!)
Address: Yuen Long, New Territories, Hong Kong. Tel: +(852) 2526 1011 

Yuen Po Street Bird Garden
A Chinese style themed garden, Yuen Po Street Bird Garden is divided into different courtyards filled with trees and stalls, selling exotic birds, beautiful bamboo birdcages and porcelain water dishes. Bird traders and fanciers often meet and share their experience and passion in this public space, and it is a fun and traditional Hong Kong sight for adults and kids alike. Head here if you’re planning on adding a feathered friend to your family!
Address: Yuen Po Street, Prince Edward, Kowloon, Hong Kong.

HOOVES

Discovery Bay Horse-drawn carriage rides
Lantau-ers can head to Discovery Bay’s North Plaza every weekend and public holiday for a short and sweet horse-drawn carriage ride. Available between 3pm-7.30pm, each 10-minute long ride can accommodate up to four people per carriage (meaning there’s always someone to wield the camera!) and you’ll be transported by a fine pair of Percheron mares, or Belgian geldings. These fun rides keep them in shape for their day job – transporting blushing brides to the wedding chapel at the new Auberge Hotel.
Address: Discovery Bay North Plaza, Discovery Bay, Lantau, Hong Kong.

PAWS
Hong Kong Zoological & Botanical Gardens
Probably the closest thing Hong Kong has to a traditional zoo, HKZBG is home to all sorts of mammals, birds and reptiles. Catch a glimpse of sloths, lemurs, monkeys and turtles, among many others. You can also check out the education and exhibition centre to learn about endangered species, either with a guided tour, or on your own.
Address: Albany Road, Central, Hong Kong. Tel: +(852) 2530 0154
Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden
Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden is home to traditional farm animals like pigs, but also badgers, cockatoos and owls. Apart from spotting wildlife, you can also enjoy amazing scenery along the Orchard Trail or the Rainbow Trail – just a couple of the lovely walks here. Get hands-on with art and environmental workshops, guided tours or organic farming courses. The list of activities goes on all year round, and for more details you can check out Katie’s review here!
Address: Lam Kam Road, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong. Tel: +(852) 2483 7200 
Kam Shan Country Park (Monkey Hill)
Monkey Hill, or Kam Shan, is famous amongst locals for its kingdom of macaques. They comprise the largest group of mammals in the park, and alongside the monkeys, you’re likely to also find squirrels and plenty of bird species. There are four reservoirs within the park, and the short and scenic Kam Shan Family Walk is suitable for the whole family, strollers included. Kam Shan is also home to some WWII bunker ruins, making for a fun setting for hide-and-seek!
There are many different ways to access the country park – for more on how to explore, click here.

FINS

Hong Kong Dolphin Watch
If you want to meet Flipper nose-to-fin, join a Hong Kong Dolphin Watch cruise. HKDW’s conservation experts will guide you around the scenic western shoreline of the New Territories, and Hong Kong’s marine parks, where the rich fisheries make yummy pickings for our endangered pink dolphins. If you don’t manage to spot a dolphin on your tour, you can simply join another tour again… for free! Check out our review here.
Address: 1528A Star House, Tsim Sha Tsui. Tel: +(852) 2984 1414

Ocean Park
Hong Kong’s homegrown aquatic theme park has an amazing underwater display that will boggle and delight in equal measures. Manta rays, hammerhead sharks and beautiful rainbow-coloured wrasse take pride of place in the Grand Aquarium, alongside a backlit jellyfish display reminiscent of a lava lamp. Ocean Park also hosts a huge variety of seriously quirky non-aquatic specimens! From the world’s smallest monkey, via cute capybaras (the world’s largest rodent!), to penguins, arctic foxes, snowy owls and pandas you’ll get your fill of furry and fishy friends here. And if you get bored of fabulous creatures, there’s always thrilling rollercoasters, fun children’s rides… not to mention a hotdog or two! Avoid the craziest crowds and go midweek if you can.
Address: Ocean Park, Aberdeen, Hong Kong. Tel: +(852) 3923 2323

HKG & Macau Hotel Recommendations

A friend recently asked me for some hotel recommendations for HKG and Macau so I've listed the below for those who might be interested also.
For room bookings and deals, I normally just email the hotels directly to get deals and promos. Let me know if there are any ones that you (the readers) would want to recommend also. :)

HKG Hotels:
1.) Metro Park Hotel (Tin Hau, HK Island)
http://www.metroparkhotelcausewaybay.com/index.php

2.) City Garden Hotel (North Point area, Fortress Hill MTR station, HK Island)
http://www.sino-hotels.com/City_Garden_Hotel/en/default.aspx
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g294217-d305364-Reviews-City_Garden_Hotel_Hong_Kong-Hong_Kong.html

3.) Regal Hotel (Causeway Bay, HK Island)
http://www.regalhotel.com/Regal-Hotels-International/Main/Hotel-Home.aspx

4.) Novotel Citygate (Tung Chung MTR line, Lantau?) -- outlet stores and near Disney.
http://www.novotel.com/gb/hotel-6239-novotel-hong-kong-citygate/index.shtml

5.) Lan Kwai Fung Hotel (Central, HK Island) -- I read this up and might be a good option for you also.
http://www.lankwaifonghotel.com.hk/contact.asp
Reviews: http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g294217-d582208-r7665105-Hotel_LKF_By_Rhombus-Hong_Kong.html

6.) Cosmopolitan Hotel (Wan Chai, HK Island) -- also a recommendation by travelers
http://www.cosmopolitanhotel.com.hk/hong-kong-hotel-rooms.html
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g294217-d483282-Reviews-Cosmopolitan_Hotel_Hong_Kong-Hong_Kong.html

Macau Hotels:
1.) Holiday Inn (Rua De Pequim, Macau)
http://www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/macau/qmpch/hoteldetail

2.) Holiday Inn (Macau Cotai Central, Macau) --> where my mom recently stayed in
http://www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/macao-sar/mfmma/hoteldetail

3.) Galaxy Macau -- where I recently stayed in twice
http://www.galaxymacau.com/en/promotions/hotel?utm_source=google-ph&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=GH&gclid=CPmngq-mwLECFaMaQgodShwABg

Warning: I'm not an expert on Macau so can only recommend the ones that me or my family have gone to.
You might want to consult also TripAdvisor for Macau hotels on a budget to get more choices.

HKG: Disneyland HKG & Taxi / Limo Rental Contact Numbers

A few friends were asking recently on some recommendations regarding what hotels/motels that would be near Disneyland HKG. On this, you want to try Novotel Citygate HK.  It's near the airport and is a subway or two from Disneyland Monorail/Train to Disney. It's also located at Citygate Outlet Mall that might be of interest for the whole family since there's something for everyone in this mall.

Also, the below are some recommendations on taxi/limo services for booking one's own pick-up from either the airport and back or if you have a big group.


1.) Contact Tony at 6341-8555. He's native english speaker with a VAN! A friend, Angela , referred me to him for you. He can maybe give u a good deal.

2.) http://www.hongkonglimoservice.com/index.htm

3.) http://www.elephant-van.com/index_main.html

4.) https://sites.google.com/site/vanhirehk/

5.) http://hongkong.angloinfo.com/af/469/hong-kong-car-hire-and-vehicle-rental.html

24 Hours in HK by Sarah Fung of HK Magazine

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Bangkok Thailand: Transportation

MTR/Subway MAP

• Underground Train (MRT) Bangkok, Thailand
• The recently opened underground train system (officially called MRT - Mass Rapid transit) reaches from the Northern train station of Bangsue to Hua Lumphong main railway station in a loop, connecting with the Skytrain on 3 different stations, namely : Silom, Sukhumvit and Chatuchak Park (see below map).
• There have a similar ticket system as the Skytrain (BTS) but both systems are for the time being not compatible. All stations of the underground train can be reached via ramps and elevators, if needed, or alternatively via escalators.
• See combined Route map

The MRT Bangkok Metro Underground

• The 'impossible' became a reality in April 2004. It had taken seven years to build, comprising 21 kilometers of bored tunnels, with 18 simultaneously-built stations, using top-down techniques up to 30 meters deep under the city's major roads. The cost was approximately US$ 2.75 billion.
• Officially called the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and in Thai as rot fai fah mahanakhon ("metropolitan electric train") or more often as the rot fai tai din ("underground train") the line operates from 5am to midnight, and extends in a wide loop from the main railway station of Hualumpong, then tracks back via the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre to the smaller rail station of Bang Sue (pronounce Seu) to the north.
• It has interchanges with the Skytrain at Si Lom, Sukhumvit and Chatuchak Park stations (please see above map). To protect against periodic flooding, station entrances are elevated above ground, and equipped with built-in floodgates. To prevent accidents and suicides, a glassed-in Automatic Platform Screen Door separates the platform and track, and opens only when the trains pull in and stop. All stations feature lifts and ramps for disabled people.


• As with the Skytrain, there are a number of ticket types, which only need to be held close to the ticket barriers to operate them, thanks to a proximity sensor. Tokens are used for single journeys. An unlimited 1 day go-as-you please travel ticket currently costs Baht 120. A joint ticketing system for the Subway and Skytrain is planned.

Operating Hours:

• 06.00 am - midnight daily.
• Frequency - Less than 5 minutes during the peak hours 06.00 - 09.00 am. and 04.30 - 07.30 pm.
• Less than 10 minutes during the off-peak hours.
• Maximum 18 serviced rolling stocks and 1 reserved.
• MRTA prepares the parking lots for MRT passengers
• MRTA has prepared the parking areas and other facilities for the MRT passengers including two Park & Ride Buildings and seven subway stations. The parking lots, retail shops, and other facilities are available for the passengers who want to park their cars and take the subway for their destinations.

Two Types of Tickets:

1.) Contactless Smart Card

• Single Journey Token
• For Adult - Issued from both Ticket Vending Machine and Ticket Office
• For Child / Elder - Only issued at Ticket Office

2.) Stored Value Card :
Value addable: Adult, Concession (Child/Elder), Student, Business Traveller
Non-Value addable : One Day Pass, 3-Day Pass, 30-Day Pass, Premiere Pass

BTS Map

Bangkok, Thailand: Shopping and Maps

SHOPPING OPTIONS:

1.) World Central Plaza (GB, PP)

• Address: 4 Rajdamri Road Patumwan Bangkok 10330 Thailand
• CentralWorld is situated in the middle between Siam and Chitlom BTS stations, needing a small walk in order to get there. The best suggestion is to use the BTS Skytrain, get off at Chitlom station and walk a couple of minutes down the sky walk.

2.) Gaysorn Plaza (high-end)

• Address: 999 Ploenchit Rd. Bangkok 10330
• Tel: (66 2) 656 1149
• Hotline:(66 2)6561177
• BTS Skytrain Sukhumvit Line - Gaysorn has a direct link to Chit Lom Station, InterContinental Hotel, Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, Holiday Inn, Erawan Bangkok, Amarin Plaza and skywalk to CentralWorld Plaza.

3.) Central Department Store (Rustan’s)

• Address: 1027 Ploenchit Road, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
• Tel: 02-7937777
• Operating Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. everyday
• Bangkok Skytrain (BTS): - Chidlom Station
• Check out golf shoes/equipment

4.) Mahboonkrong or MBK (cheaper than Central)

• Bangkok Skytrain (BTS) - National Stadium Station; also within walking distance of Siam station. / MBK centre is connected to the National Stadium Station by a walk way
• MK is a chain of Thai/Chinese restaurants all over Thailand. You cook the food in a bowl on the table to make soup and have plates of duck, red pork, crispy pork etc. It’s a family restaurant and great fun, not to mention absolutely delicious!! [YAYOI by MK]
• Food court is great (Buy coupons at desk); explore though
• MBK Tourist Discount Card produced to not only get the shop’s promotion around MBK Center, but also are designed to worthy of collecting as a souvenir gift card. We provide the free card only for tourists when they visit MBK Center at information counter.

5.) Emporium

• Address: Sukhumvit Road Phrom Pong Skytrain Bangkok Thailand
• @SkyTrain: ticket vending machine, select Phrom Phong as your destination. You'll need coins - if you don't have enough, you can change a banknote at the window. The vending machine will give you a plastic card. Put that through the turnstile and pick it up again - you'll need it when you exit.

6.) Suam Lum Night Bazaar or Night Bazaar @ Lumpini Park

• Address: Lumpini Park Bangkok Thailand
• Tel: 2 252 4776

7.) Siam Paragon

• Address: 991/1 Rama 1 Rd Bangkok 10330 Thailand
• Tel: 0 2690 1000
• The station on the sky train network is "Siam". This will allow you to enter Siam Center and Siam Paragon.

8.) Chatuchak (Divisoria)

• If by MTK to Kamphaeng Phet Station. It actually exits inside the market.
• Ticket costs 45 baht each way. You take the train from National Stadium one stop to National Stadium. Change trains in the direction of Morchit (also written as Mo Chit), which is the station you will get off at - the market is signposted (short walk) and lots of other people will be going there.

9.) Patpong Market / Silom Night Market

• Address: Silom and Surawong Roads Bangkok
• In the evening, this lively market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, fake brand name items and cheap goods and to visit Bangkok’s infamous “adult entertainment area.”

10.) Jim Thompson Factory Outlet:

• Address: Surawong, 149/4-6, 149/38-40 Surawong Rd, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500
• Tel: 02-235-8931-2
• Opening hours: 09.00 am - 06.00 pm
• The place near Sala Daeng BTS station (or Silom MRT station) is the main Shopping Outlet, which is at the start of Surawong Road just off of Rama IV.
• Go north from Sala Daeng station along Thaniya Road - bet you're now going to ask how do you know which is North! Well it's the right hand side in direction of travel when arriving at Sala Daeng station and you should use the exit on the forward right hand side.
• When you reach the junction of Thaniya Road with Surawong Road, turn right and there will be Jim Thompson's Thai Silk a short distance away.
• They have wonderful shirts, blouses, dresses (short and formal long), and very stylish children’s wear (cotton). Handbags and some very expensive silk scarves/pashminas with swarovski (sic) crystal embroidery! Also rolls of materials and a making service and advice.
• Also a great cafe so you can sit and consider your (expensive) options.

11.) Jim Thompson House Muesum:

• Address: Soi Sukhumvit 93, 153 Soi Sukhumvit 93, Bangchak, Phakanong, Bangkok 10260
• Tel: : 02-332-6530 ext. 13
• Opening hours: 09:00 - 12:00 hrs & 13:30 - 16:00 hrs
• Jim Thompson's House & Museum i.e. The tourist attraction which is a collection of Thai houses along with a nice coffee shop and a small shop, is up Kasem San 2 off of Rama 1 road.
•  The closest BTS/Skytrain is National Stadium and it is easily walk-able from there

12.) Thaniya Plaza Shopping Centre:

• Largely devoted to golf stuff. Thaniya plaza is next to Sala daeng Skytrain station - the station that goes down the side of Oeilly irish bar.
• On the ground floor of the plaza as you enter the shop on the left hand corner of the food court as you enter sells only such stuff - Big Betty drivers etc - but if you go diagonally opposite to the store there you can get a better deal on second hand genuine stuff.

Bangkok, Thailand : Attractions, Restos and Spas

ATTRACTION OPTIONS:

From several magnificent temples in Bangkok, the three most unique ones are Wat Traimit, Wat Pho, and Wat Benchamabophit. Wat Traimit houses a striking 3-meter tall Golden Buddha image - a gleaming, 5-ton figure of solid gold. Wat Pho, which features the largest reclining Buddha image in Thailand, and the Chedi of the kings, is Bangkok's oldest and largest temple. Finally there is Wat Benchamabophit, a fine modern Thai temple constructed from white Carrara marble with ornate crossbeams decorated with lacquer and gold.

1.) Grand Palace (Home of the Emerald Buddha)

• Add: Na Phra Lan Rd, Maharaj Pier next to Wat Phra Kaeo Temple Complex, city center Bangkok Thailand
• Tel: 02 224 1833
• Hours of Operation: Every day from 8:30 to 3:30, unless it's being used for a state function, which is quite rare. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Grand Palace grounds are open every day when not being used for state functions, the audience halls in the Grand Palace are closed on weekends. You can only gain entrance to see the magnificent thrones on weekdays. The Royal Pantheon in Temple of the Emerald Buddha is only open one day a year, on 6 April.
• Suggestion: Palace complex is huge so allocate time in the morning to avoid being rushed to finish by 1530. Do try to see if you can view the Emerald Buddha so go on WEEKDAYS, NOT weekends.
• Free guided tours in English are available at 10:00, 10:30, 1:30 and 2:00. You can also rent an audio guide for 100 Baht (3.31 USD) plus passport or credit card to secure return.

2.) Temple of the Reclining Buddha / Wat Pho

• Add: Maharat Rd Bangkok Thailand
• Suggestion: Go after visiting the Grand Palace since it's on the way back to the Chaophraya Express Boat. It's a big temple that houses the Reclining Buddha but a quick enough visit to squeeze in before you head home.

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

RESTAURANT OPTIONS as per friend's suggestions:

1.) Erawan Tea Room, Grand Hyatt (afternoon tea)
Add: 494 Rajdamri Road, Bangkok, Thailand 10330
Tel: +66 2 254 1234

2.) Baan Thai House (Thai)
Add: 199 / 19 Moo 4, Pailing, Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Tel: +66 035245555

3.) Celadon, Sukhothai Hotel (Thai)
Add: 13/3 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 2344 8888 Fax: +66 (0) 2344 8899
Email: promotions@sukhothai.com

4.) La Normandie @ Mandarin Oriental Hotel (French)

5.) Spice Market @FourSeasons (Thai)
Add: 155 Rajadamri Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Tel: 66 (0) 2 126-8866

6.) Biscotti @FourSeasons (Italian)
Add: 155 Rajadamri Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Tel: 66 (0) 2 126-8866

7.) Sirocco The Dome @State Tower (Mediterranean; 360 view of Bangkok)
Address: 1055 Silom Road, 63rd floor, State Tower, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Phone: +66 2624-9555

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

MASSAGE/SPAS:
1.) Depravni Spa @Dusit Thani Hotel

2.) Grand Hyatt’s Spa

Hong Kong Guide Updated 2009

Disclaimer: The below recommendations are based on the author's own preferences/experience. It is by no way the only way to enjoy Hong Kong but it is to help you further get the Hong Kong Experience. Thank you!

GETTING AROUND:
Upon arrival in Hong Kong International Airport, you have one or more options of getting to the city: Privately hired car service/ hotel airport transfer, Taxi Cab, Bus, MTR's Airport Express

Transportation within the city: Taxi Cab, Bus, Mass Transit Railway (MTR)

ACCOMMODATIONS:
Hotel Options:
Citygarden Hotel (Fortress Hill MTR)
Novotel (City Gate Plaza)
L Hotel (Tin Hau MTR)
Metro Park Hotel (Tin Hau MTR)

There might be some deals offered and since you are near the shopping places like Causeway Bay/Tin Hau (near Admiralty MTR - where you can get the shuttle to Ocean Park), near the MTR in general for convenience, near the Citygate Outlet mall (and Disney). I know the first hotel has good deals but best to check.I know the rooms at Novotel is big so families might find this is as a good deal. :)
There are also private service apartments ready for rental but these change constantly so you would have to do more research on this.

Service Apartments
> DOMUS (http://www.domus.com.hk/) – offers fully furnished, eco-friendly serviced apartments. With 3 strategic locations: Domus Mercury in Causeway Bay, Domus Pok Ful Lam across Hong Kong University and Domus Queens in Sheung Wan.

> HOME2HOME (http://www.home2home.hk/) – offers serviced apartments at three locations: Ovolo in Soho, Erba in Central and Abeo in the waterfront in Aberdeen.

> MOVE AND STAY (http://www.moveandstay.com/hongkong/default.asp) – booking agency with an online database of serviced apartments. You can select apartments based on area, number of bedrooms and length of stay. You can also arrange inspection and secure reservations by the click of a button. Best of all, all these services are free!

SHOPPING:
Malls
> Times Square (MTR Island line, Causeway Bay Station, exit A1)
http://www.timessquare.com.hk/
Being one of Hong Kong’s largest shopping malls, this 16 story complex contains more than 200 stores and a multiplex cinema. There are dedicated retail, entertainment and recreation areas. There is also 2 to 3 floors entirely for dining.

> Sogo Department Store (MTR Island line, Causeway Bay Station, exit E)
http://www.sogo.com.hk/en/home.html
This Japanese-style department store chain located in CWB is also known colloquially as "Jumbo Sogo”. It is one of the major shopping landmarks for Hong Kong people and tourists. SOGO is characterized by the “one-stop shop”, “shop-in-shop”, “Japanese style” and “customer oriented” concepts, which offer quality goods and services, customer convenience, and comfortable and pleasurable shopping environment.

> Lee Gardens (MTR Island line, Causeway Bay Station, exit E)

> CityPlaza (MTR Island line, Tai Koo Station, exit C)
http://www.cityplaza.com.hk/
A popular Japanese department store and supermarket that includes department stores Jusco Department Store (http://www.juscocityhk.com/en/content.jsp) and UNY

> Landmark (MTR Island line, Central Station, exit A or E)
http://www.hkland.com/commercial_property/hongkong_properties/thelandmark/index.html Landmark’s shopping atrium to 3/F and 4/F of the building, introducing a high-end department store Harvey Nichols (http://www.harveynichols.com/) and a 6-star boutique hotel The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hotel (http://www.mandarinoriental.com/landmark/) .

> IFC Mall (MTR Island line, Central Station, exit A or E)
http://www.ifc.com.hk/
IFC is home to more than 200 high-end stores. There are pricy designer boutiques like Prada and Versace, high-street chains like Zara and Mango and a branch of local department store Lane Crawford. There are also several restaurants and bars and the deluxe Palace Cinema. Do visit Isola Italian Restaurant at the 3rd level.

> Pacific Place (MTR Island line, Admiralty Station, exit D)
http://www.pacificplace.com.hk/
This mall is home to more than 150 shops and restaurants including branches of Seibu and Lane Crawford and the Great gourmet food hall. Designer boutiques like Manolo Blahnik, Gucci and Prada stores are on the topmost floors.
There’s an AMC Pacific cinemas multiplex and the mall is close to Hong Kong Park and the Peak Tram. This is also the headquarters of Lane Crawford Home Store.

> Elements (MTR Tung Chung line, Kowloon Station, exit C1)
http://www.elementshk.com/eng/elements/elements.htm
This upscale shopping mall was developed by the MTR Corporation and sits directly above Kowloon station. It features everything from luxury barnds and fine dining to a skating rink and cinema. Many popular LKF eateries have opened outlets here include FINDS and Stormies.

> Habour City (MTR Tuen Wan line, Tsim Sha Shui Station, exit A1)
http://www.harbourcity.com.hk/
This mega mall occupies more than two million square feet that consists of major stores like Toys ‘R’ Us, Lane Crawford, Marks & Spencer and Faces. Many of the eateries here boast stunning harbor views.

> Festival Walk (MTR Kwun Tong line, Kowloon Tong Station, exit C2)
http://www.festivalwalk.com.hk/eng/fun.htm
Home to more than 200 stores, dozens of restaurants, a cinema and skating rink, Festival Walk has popular outlets include Hong Kong Records and Log-On, a Japanese home store.

> apm / Millenium City (MTR Kwun Tong line, Kowloon Tong Station, exit B)
http://www.apm-millenniumcity.com/
This is a shopping arcade with an array of restaurants, clothing stores, cosmetics shops, and a cineplex. It is the largest mall in the district, and caters for the habits of the community by having extended operating hours. Its name 'apm' implies that visitors are welcome during day and night. In fact, many shops inside the mall are open overnight. Some retail shops close at 12 midnight, and restaurants close at 2am. There are also stores that operate 24 hours.

> New Town Plaza (KCR Sha Tin Station)
http://www.newtownplaza.com.hk/
This is the biggest shopping mall in the New Territories that boasts more than 350 stores and restaurants, a gaming arcade, cinema and Snoopy’s World theme park. The mall is organized into theme areas with entire floors dedicated to audio-visual stores, boutique fashion and sporting goods.

> Wonderful Worlds of Whampoa in Hunghom (http://www.whampoaworld.com/).
Not strictly speaking a mall, this huge shopping hub is divided into Fashion World, Treasure World, Screen World and Home World. A free air-conditioned shuttle service can ferry you between worlds.

SHOPPING STREETS:
> Cat Street (MTR Island line, Sheung Wan Station, A2)
At the bottom of Hollywood Road, past the Man Mo Temple and down the steps an interesting place to browse for fortune sticks, curios, posters and second-hand household bric-a-brac.
This tiny alley attracts shoppers trawling for antiques and traditional Chinese art. He stalls are packed with fascinating curios, from Maoist memorabilia and Buddhist art to Tibetan rugs and reproduction Chinese furniture.

> Fa Yuen Street (MTR Kwun Tong line, Prince Edward Station, exit A)
This shopping precinct sells fashion and accessories. Many of the shops and stalls here sell factory outlet overruns of high-end labels and you can often find well-known international brands at bargain basement prices. Most of the best finds are in the tiny shops lining the side streets.

> Sneaker Street (MTR Kwun Tong line, Mongkok Station, exit E2)
This shoe market takes up most of Nelson Street and the surrounding alleys. You can find sports shoes and hip labels like Keds, Royal Elastics and Vans at bargain prices. Many larger stores are owned by the same companies so hit the smaller shops and remember to bargain hard!

> Sheung Wan Dried Seafood (MTR Island line, Sheung Wan Station, A2)
Dozens of tiny shops line Wing Lok Street, Ko Shing Street and Des Voeux Road West, selling dried seafood, shark’s fin, bird’s nests and traditional herb remedies. Spend a few hours browsing the old-fashioned apothecaries and shops packed with all kinds of weird and wonderful items.

> Shanghai Street (MTR Kwun Tong line, Yau Ma Tei Station, B2)
This is the place to go if you are looking for affordable kitchenware. Start at the corner of Waterloo Road and head south to Public Square Street to find Chinese and Western kitchenware. There are also several stores that specialize in traditional Chinese furniture. Be prepared to bargain.

> Apliu Street (MTR Kwun Tong line, Yau Ma Tei Station, B2)
This bustling flea market is packed with all kinds of electrical items. There are more than 100 stores and dozens of tiny stalls and items up for grabs include cameras, radios, mobile phones, satellite dish, fishing rods and classic records. Check out the Golden Shopping Arcade on the other side of Cheung Sha Wan Road for bargain computer hardware and games.

> Stanley Market (http://www.hk-stanley-market.com/)
Stanley Market is a flee market shopping at a wonderful area, outside of the city. A lot of American/British brands are available in mass quantities


Bridal Gowns:

Take note that most of the stores below will require an appointment to view the gowns or be able to come into the store.

> Brides and Gowns (http://www.bridesandgowns.com/)
8/F Asia Pacific Centre, 8 Wyndham Street
This store stocks Australian and Hong Kong-made designs

> The Wedding Shop (http://www.theweddingshop.com.hk/index.html)
4/F On Lan Street, 11-15 On Lan Street
This store stocks Italian labels

> Anaiss (http://www.anaiss.net/)
301 Tak Woo House, 17-9 D’Aguilar Street
This store stocks London and Parisian labels

> Central Weddings (http://www.centralweddings.com/)
Shop B31A, The Landmark, 15 Queen’s Rd. Central
tel. 852.2869-8666
This store stocks Monique Lhuillier, Amsale, Reem Acra, Carolina Herrera, Oscar dela Renta, Bagley Mischka, etc

> White
17 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central
(852)2521 3288
This store stocks Vera Wang bridesmaid to Carmelita Sultera

> Celebration par Barney Cheng
1/F., 1 Duddell Street, Central
(852)2905 1101

> Dorian Ho Wedding (http://www.dorianho.net/)
G/F, 89 Wong Nai Chung Road, Happy Valley
(852)2882 7586

> Verna Marina
2/F, 23 Connaught Rd Central, Heung Lam Building, Central
(852)2569 1080

> Esmeralda Bridal
6A Li Dong Building, 9-12 Li Yuen Street East, Central
(852)2167 8868

> Bridal Building (MTR Tsuen Wan line, Sham Shui Po Station, exit A2 and C2)

> Kimberly Plaza in Kimberly Road, TST (Kowloon side), is devoted to wedding dress shops or try the wedding shops close to Prince Edward MTR station.

EYE WEAR:
Eye wear is a key fashion statement in Hong Kong. Designer opticians include:
> Alain Mikli (D’Aguilar Street, Central)

> Senses Optik (28 Wellington Street)

> Optical 88, which has stores around the city and is reasonably priced. A free eye test is provided with any purchase of glasses or contact lenses. All types of contact lenses are available in the city, including coloured and disposable.

FANCY DRESS:
There are several fancy dress shops that sell or hire costumes.
> Festival and Party (Shop 30, Basement, Queen’s Theatre, 31 Queen’s Road, Central; tel. 2529 5921) is open from midday.

> Costumes in House of Sirens (23 Staunton Street; tel. 2526 2877) are flamboyant and sexy.

> The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts also hires out costumes to the public (call Wardrobe on 852.2584 8574).

Maternity Wear:
Pregnant mums can find stylish maternity wear at...
> Formes (8 On Lan Street, Central; G/F, 19 Yun Ping Road, Causeway Bay and Shop 230B, Ocean Centre)

> Bumps to Babes (5/F, Pedder Building)

> Mothercare (3/F, Prince’s Building; Shop 137, Ocean Terminal, TST; 2/F, Windsor House, 311 Gloucester Rd, Causeway Bay)

> Maternity wear shops in Melbourne Plaza (33 Queen’s Road, Central), including Mother’s Work, Mother Court and Wendy’s Maternity Wear

SECOND-HAND & VINTAGE CLOTHS:
Castaways Charity Shop, run by St John’s Cathedral, sells quality second-hand clothing. There hasn’t traditionally been much of a market in Hong Kong for vintage clothes because of negative associations with the dead, although one place that sells 1960s and 1970s clothes is Beatniks (221 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay).

SPORTSWEAR:
> Cold weather clothes or outdoor wear can be found cheaply at Stanley Market

> Camping Protrek (46 Hennessy Road, Wanchai; http://www.protrek.com.hk/)

> Sogo (both in Causeway Bay and Kowloon)

> Sports shops in Times Square (6/F, Leisure & Pleasure floor)

> Dickson Warehouse outlets (details above).

> Sports Market in Sai Yee Street, Mongkok (see city maps).

TAILORS:
Tailoring in Hong Kong does not come cheap, in spite of the many tailors operating in and around the Humph’s Avenue area. Many people head over the border clutching Ellen McNally’s Shop in Shenzhen, which gives useful hints on finding tailors and has floor plans of the whole of Lowu Shopping Plaza; chock-full with the latest Grade A and B imitation Tod’s bags, Gucci belts, Cartier watches, Oakley sunglasses, jewelry, cloth and Chinese crafts. For local tailors, get recommendations from a friend.

> Tailor & Alteration (1/F, Teda Building, 87 Wing Lok Street; tel. 2543 6328)’s Theresa. She charges around $700 for a summer dress before material & you should buy material from a wholesaler.

> Alteration tailors in Melbourne Plaza (33 Queen’s Road, Central)

> Shanghai Tang (Pedder Street) is famous as much for the beautifully fragrant scent, which spills out onto surrounding pavements, as for its bold patterned silks. It’s all the rage with wealthy tourists, but I’ve yet to find something off-the-peg that comes close to fitting me properly. When I’ve saved up, I’ll use their tailors.

> Siriporn (47A Caine Road) has Thai silks and tailoring.

RAW MATERIALS:
To buy linen cloth, silk, beads, ribbon, feathers and buttons and other materials in Hong Kong, head to the Cheung Sha Wan Road area in Sham Shui Po, which is lined with wholesale merchants. Expat shoppers have used:
> Ming Sang Button Manufactury (G/F, 114 Nam Cheong Street)

> Luen Fung Bead & Gems Company (G/F, Yu Chau Street)

> Lung Moon Elastic Weaving (G/F, 126 Nam Cheong Street)

> Closer to downtown, you can obtain cloth by the yard from one of the many sellers upstairs in the Western Market in Sheung Wan, which closes at 7:00 pm; try the friendly and knowledgeable Rowena at the Yau Fat Textile Company (Shop 105-6, Western Market, 323 Des Voeux Road, Central; tel. 2850 5169)

> CRC Department Store (Whampoa Garden, Hunghom) holds a large selection of traditional Chinese designs on silk

>On the Steps of Pottinger Street, you can buy ribbons, feathers and beads from the stalls

> Nearby Wing Kut Street and Gilman’s Bazaar are lined with haberdashery shops, scarf-sellers and so on

TRENDY:
For teens and trendies, the best shopping area is undoubtedly CWB, with its many independent boutiques and trashy-glam cubby-holes.
> Island Beverly Shopping Centre

> A mini-Causeway Bay on the Kowloon side in the Granville Road/Carnarvon Road area of TST.

> Local Japanese-influenced stores IT and LCX (Ocean Terminal) are the preferred shopping haunt of local teens

> D-Mop, Diesel and Kitterick (Central and Causeway) are also popular brands.

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COMPUTERS:
The main shopping malls for hardware and software are:
> Wanchai Computer Centre (Wanchai MTR Exit A1)

> 298 Computer Zone (298 Hennessey Road, Wanchai)

> Mongkok Computer Centre (8 Nelson Street)

> Star Computer City (Star House, 3 Salisbury Road, TST)

> Golden Building Shopping Centre (146–156 Fuk Wa Street, Sham Shui Po)

> Windsor House (10/F–13/F) ~ though items and stores are lesser now than before

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COSMETICS AND SKINCARE:
> Joyce (16 Queen’s Road Central; 38 Russell Street, Causeway Bay), which stocks a number of international skin care brands and is constantly updating its beauty lists

> Bobbi Brown (ifc/ Festival Walk / Lane Crawford)

> Lancome (Sogo / Festival Walk)

> Shu Uemura (Pacific Place and other locations around the city)

> Jurlique (ifc / 68 Des Voeux Road)

> Clarins, Clinique and Estee Lauder (all in the IFC Mall, as well as elsewhere)

> Lane Crawford and other department stores stock most internationally famous cosmetic brands, but you can get many of these discounted at local cosmetics stores.

> Sasa (http://www.sasa.com/) with its trademark white, black and shocking pink logo. It’s unusual in Hong Kong to obtain free take-away samples of creams and perfume in any store unless you’re buying, but Sasa sells sample-size perfumes and creams.

> Strawberry (http://www.strawberrynet.com/), which also has a large virtual shopping operation at.

> Other cosmetics and fragrance stores in Hong Kong include: The Body Shop, H2O, Red Earth, Watsons, which stocks Boots No 7, Simple, Ulay and Neutrogena products , Lush (Festival Walk, Admirality MTR Station, UNY Basement, City Plaza 2, etc), Crabtree & Evelyn (Pacific Place, Landmark, etc), L’Occitane En Provence (Pacific Place, etc), Aveda (Harbour City and concessions in Lane Crawford), Mannings has low-priced shower gel, soaps, creams and hair colour products, ParknShop and Wellcome run to Badedas and Pears, Herbal Bliss (http://www.herbalbliss.com.hk) with two locations @ Unit 11A, 128 Wellington Street, Central (852.2676 2885) & Unit 1808, Workingport Commercial Building, 3 Hau Fook Street, TST) that sells holistic and organic skincare products and cosmetics.

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SPAS:
> Elemis Day Spa (9/F, Century Square, 1 D’Aguilar Street, Central)

> Ellespa (10/F The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central and Shop G106A, The Repulse Bay) sell a range of spa products.

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ANTIQUES:
@Hollywood Road neighborhood
> Manks (http://www.manks.com/) – For late nineteenth and twentieth century European and Scandinavian art and antiques. It’s located in Quarry Bay

> Wah Tung China Ltd (http://www.wahtungchina.com/)
G/F and 1/F, Lee Roy Commercial Building, 57-59 Hollywood Road – known for its reproduction ceramics and porcelain. The shop offers a wide selection of genuine antiques and reproductions, including furniture, silk fragments, ceramics, fossils and sculpture, for the connoisseur and the casual browser.

> Serious acquisitions can be made at Sotheby’s and Christie’s auction houses, both in Central. Genuine antiques are accompanied by Oxford Test certificates that establish the age of the piece; several tests should be performed at different sites on a large object.

** Perhaps most importantly, find a dealer who you trust; there is no professional body you can contact, so it’s very much a case of caveat emptor. Reproduction antiques are advertised as such by reputable stores and are good value for money, but make sure that they have been properly made: reproduction lacquerware, for example, is very popular, but hastily prepared lacquer can crack in Hong Kong’s humidity Consider how you will care for your antique once it is installed in your home. Hong Kong’s humidity can damage silks, leather and wood, so take professional advice.

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ART:
Many art galleries reside in the neighborhood of Hollywood Road, a stone’s throw from the Mid-Levels escalator.
> Online links to many of the galleries are provided at http://www.hongkongartwalk.com/

> Modern and traditional Chinese art and other Asian art is exhibited for sale at galleries such as:
- Schoeni Art Gallery (http://www.schoeni.com.hk/) @21-31 Old Bailey Street
- John Batten Gallery @64 Peel Street
- Karin Weber Gallery (http://www.karinwebergallery.com/) @20 Aberdeen Street
- Batten’s take a 40% commission with the rest going to the artist
- Picture This (http://www.picturethiscollection.com/) @603B, 6/F, 9 Queen’s Road
stocks a large range of antique maps, vintage film and travel posters and early photographs.
- Alisan Fine Arts
- Pacific Place’s Galerie du Monde
- Local ceramics studios include Pottery Workshop @2 Lower Albert Road, Central
- Gaffer Studio Glass (http://www.gafferstudioglass.com/) @17/F, Hing Wai Centre, Aberdeen
- Stanley Market is another popular place for picking up art and Asian kitsch. Besides selling prints and original watercolors, oil paintings and pen-and-ink drawings by well-known local artists, shops such as Wong’s Art display oil reproductions of European and Chinese art. At the far end of the market, two or three home-grown artist-entrepreneurs accept commissions to copy any picture in oils. They have catalogues of Chinese, Vietnamese and Burmese art for you to select from. Prices vary from about $500 for a smaller work to a few thousand dollars, depending on size, and may take several weeks to complete.

- For framing a picture or small object, Queen’s Road East in Wanchai is studded with framers that can put together a shadow box in less than a week. Shadow boxes are similar to a frame, but have depth and are often used to display objects such as lotus slippers, etc. They are a beautiful way to display any personal items. The framers also sell posters and, occasionally, black and white photographs.

- Yue Hwa Chinese Products Emporium @301-9 Nathan Rd and Peking Road in TST and Chinese Arts and Crafts @Star House, TST; 26 Harbour Road, Wanchai; Queen’s Road, Central and Pacific Place, etc that sell traditional Chinese crafts like gold ornaments, jade sculptures, cloisonne;, ceramics and silks

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ART MATERIALS:
> Artland (http://www.artland.com.hk/)
3/F, 301-7 Lockhart Road, Wanchai
This place stocks a large range of acrylic and oil paints, pastels, colouring pencils, paper, card and artist’s tools.

> Sam & Company
38 Stanley Street, Central
Tel. 852.2523 0338
This place has a reasonable selection of paints, paper and pencils, and staff are very helpful.
o Shenzhen Book Centre (Shenzhen): reputedly has good-quality cheap materials for Chinese art located in the basement.

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BABY PRODUCTS:
**There is very little standards-checking of products available in Hong Kong, so exercise caution when buying cots and other baby products. It would be safe to purchase imported baby products.

> Eugene Group
Shop S8-S12, 2/F, North Tower, Kornhill Plaza, Quarry Bay
and Shop B215-7, Basement 2, New World Centre, TST, etc
Shop that stocks bottles, nappies, pushers and so on around Hong Kong

> Mothercare
3/F Prince’s Building

> Bumps to Babes
5/F Pedder Building

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BOOKS:
> Page One @Basement One, Times Square, D’Aguilar Street in Central, Festival Walk and Harbour City Level 3

> Bookazine

> Dymocks

> Commercial Press @Yee Wo Street, Causeway Bay and 3/F, Star House, TST, etc

> Cosmos Books @30 Johnson Road, Wanchai, etc

> Swindon Bookstore @13–15 Lock Road, TST, etc

> Hong Kong Book Centre @25 Des Voeux Road, Central, etc

> Joint Publishing @D’Aguilar Street, etc

> Most of the universities have campus bookstores stocking textbooks

> Tai Yip bookstores @branches include 1/F, Central Library, Causeway Bay Hong Kong Museum of Art, TST ~ art books can be purchased

> Kelly & Walsh @Pacific Place, One Exchange Square, etc

> Bloomsbury Books @1/F, Hutchison House, 10 Harcourt Road, Central) stocks new and second-hand law and business titles, as well as general books.

> Online booksellers Paddyfield (http://www.paddyfield.com/) @245-;251 Hennessy Road, Wanchai

> Skywalker Children’s Books (http://www.skywalkerhk.com/) @2310 Dominion Centre, 43–59 Queen’s Road East

> St John's Cathedral Bookshop: specializes in children’s books and Christian books and Catholic Centre Bookshop @2/F, Grand Building, 15–18 Connaught Road, Central (http://www.catholiccentre.org.hk/)

> Parenthes`es stocks French-language books, novels and videos @4/F Duke of Wellington House, 14 Wellington Street, Central, Tel. 2526 9215

> For second-hand books, check out the auction site, http://www.red-dots.com/

> Flow @40 Lynd-hurst Terrace, Central, Tel. 2964 9483, 14 Wan King Path, Sai Kung, Tel. 8104 0822

> Collectables @11 Queen Victoria Street, Central; Tel. 2559 9562

Detailed maps of the Hong Kong countryside and trails as well as official government publications are available from ESD Life Bookstore (http://www.esdlife.com/ga/pop_app/eng/default.asp)

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PARTY ITEMS:
> Hobby Horse (http://www.allinafamily.com/hh/index.htm) @Shop 209, Prince’s Building, Central ~ Sells party paraphernalia

> The One Stop Party Shop (http://www.theonestoppartyshop.com/) @Shop 211, Prince’s Building, Central ~ Stock a selection of gifts, toys and party paraphernalia.

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ONLINE PARTY PLANNERS:
> Party Caramba (http://www.partycaramba.com/) @1101 Tung Chai Building, 86-90 Wellington Street, Central, Tel. 2851 8320
sell cards and cakes, offer bouncy castle hire, costume hire, partyware and pinatas, and provide advice on planning your party.

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CHILDREN'S TOYS:
> ToysRUs (http://www.toysrus.com.hk/ for store locations)

> Toys Club (http://www.itoysclub.com/) @Unit 901, Horizon Plaza, Apleichau and @15/F, 8 Queen’s Road Central

> Sogo’s Childrens Floor

> The Disney Store @Airside Level 6, East Hall, HK International Airport, Chek Lap Kok, Lantau, City Plaza 2 (852) 2967-9986, New Town Plaza, Shatin, New Territories (852) 2691-6386, Ocean Terminal (852) 2302-4772, Plaza Hollywood, Diamond Hill (852) 2955-5138, Whampoa Gardens, Hung Hom (852) 2994-8632)

> A Barrel of Monkeys @Sinoplaza, Causeway Bay)

Learning Toys:
> Wise Kids Educational Toys @Shop 134, Pacific Place; G/F Hennessy Centre, 500 Hennessy Rd, Causeway Bay; Shop B233, New World Centre, 20–24 Salisbury Rd, TST, etc

> Stepping Stones @Rm 1002 Century Square, 1–13 D’Aguilar St, Central

> Children’ Corner @Rm 601, 6/F, 1 Hysan Ave, Causeway Bay

> Websites selling children’s toys and clothes in Hong Kong include http://shop.geobaby.com/ and http://www.shopinhk.com/

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FAVORITE BOUTIQUES:
> CLUB 8 (http://www.club8.com.hk/aboutus.htm) – MTR Causeway Bay, exit F. For jean connoisseurs, this is the jeans heaven (aside from Lane Crawford’s IFC jeans area).

> Agnes b (http://www.agnesb.com/)

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WET MARKETS:
> Graham Street, Central
Thisi is the last open-air wet market in Central and the oldest existing street market in Hong Kong. The stalls here are always packed with fresh, seasonal fare from exotic fruits to fresh seafood to raw meats.

> Bowrington Road, CWB
This small wet market is a short stroll from Times Square along Russell Street. It’s packed with stalls selling live fish, crabs and shrimps. Further along Bowrington Road, there are shops selling dried seafood and ethnic ingredients.

> Wholesale Market, Shau Kei Wan

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OUTLETS:
> Pedder Building (discounted Anne Klein, 2nd hand Chanel, Gucci, etc)

> Kaiser Estate @Hung Hom – for detailed information and maps clieck on the Hong Kong Yellow Pages website http://www.yp.ypdomain.com/mv_tempaltes/SHP/mv_ypshopping_e.html)

> Dickson Warehouse @MTR Kwun Tong line, Kowloon Tong Station, exit )
Deals in fashion and sportswear

> Nike Outlet @Shop 1 1/F Enterprise Square, 9 Sheung Yet Road, Kowloon Bay

> IT Sale Shop @3/F Silvercord Shopping Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui

> Milan Station ~ Pre-loved leather items and products from name brands like Louie Vitton, Prada, Gucci, etc at great deals and discounts.

> Bookazine : books books and more books!

> Baby Outlet @Horizon Plaza

> Towel Store

> Citygate: name brands on sale all year round, various labels from Alfred Dunhill to Polo, etc

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FURNISHINGS:
Franc Franc
2/F Hang Lunch Center
2-20 Paterson St, CWB
(852) 3427.3366
This Japanese store sells colorful contemporary pieces at affordable prices. You can pick up sofas and beddings, storage solutions and accessories. There are plenty of fun, funky pieces that will add a splash of color to your home.

G.O.D (http://www.god.com.hk/)
2/F Leighton Centre
Sharp Street, CWB
(852) 2890.5555
This name of this local boutique is a phonetic play on the Cantonese phase, “to live better”. The stores stock a wide range of contemporary home furnishings. The signers have put a modern spin on the Eastern aesthetic, producing funky furnishings, linens and lighting.

IKEA (http://www.ikea.com.hk/main.html)
B/F Park Lane Hotel
310 Gloucester Road, CWB
(852) 3125.0888
This is a great place to pick up chic basics at affordable prices.

Ito Futon
G/F 46 Morrison Hill Road, CWB
(852) 2845.1138
This boutique offers Japanese style home furnishings including futons and tatami platforms, shoji screens, lanterns, reproduction antiques and wall hangings.

Japan Home Centre (http://www.japanhome.com.hk/index/e_index.html)
Shop B-C, G/F, 128 Wellington St, Central
(852) 2815.0434
This budget chain has dozens of stores across town, check the website for locations. The no-frills store offers cheap-as chips basics from kitchenware and appliances to bedding and plants.

Panty Magic (http://www.pantry-magic.com/hongkong/index.php)
G/F 25 Lok Ku Road, Sheung Wan
(852) 2504.0688
This is the place to stock your new kitchen. The flagship store is in Sheung Wan and carries everything from pots and pants to chef’s knives, bakeware and cookbooks. The store is factory direct so prices tend to be cheaper than the imported competition.

Second Chance (http://www.2ndchance.com.hk/eng/index.php0)
2/F Unit 14 Kin Fat Industrial Bldg
Kin Fat Street, Tuen Mun
(852) 2496.1222
This store buys and sells secondhand furniture and homewares. A lot of the stock comes from the city’s top boutiques. The store offers free delivery and installation for purchases over HK$1,000. The store is closed on Wednesdays. See website for a map.

Tequila Kola (http://www.tequilakola.com/home/splash/page1/)
Shop 228, 2/F, Prince's Building, Central, Hong Kong
(852) 2520-1611
The designer store is packed with Asian-inspired furniture, fabrics and homewares. Also, please see Ap Lei Chow/Horizon Plaza in the category Outlets.

Wing On (http://www.wingonet.com/index/index.php)
211 Des Voeux Road, Central Sheung Wan
(852) 2852.1888
Established in 1907, this store is one of the city’s best-known department stores. The five outlets stock n-frills basics at affordable prices, selling everything from applicances and bedding to kitchenware. This is where I got most of my kitchen pots and pans, on the rare occasion that I do cook.

Shamabala (http://www.shambala.com.hk/)
2/F, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau
Antique furniture at warehouse-style and prices.

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FAVORITE RESTOS:
Italian
Isola @ IFC (http://www.isolabarandgrill.com/), Italian: one of my most favorite retreats in Hong Kong after work. Do try their pizzas (thin and crispy) and their main entrees especially the lamb chops ~ melts in your mouth (the last time we were there).

GAIA @Sheung Wan MTR station

Chinese
LEI GARDEN @North Point and IFC
THE SQUARE @Exchange Square Central

Japanese
Mi-Ne Sushi @PakSha Road CWB
Hip Sushi @World Trade Centre

French
L'Atelier de Roubuchon @Landmark Central

Vietnamese
Rice Paper @Harbour City & World Trade Centre

Thai
Sweet Thai Basil @1 Canton Road, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon or @Lee Theater 6/F

Korean
Secret Garden @ G/F Bank of America Tower, 12 Harcourt Road, Admiralty

Sorabol @17/F Lee Theatre Plaza, 99 Percival Street, CWB

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HELPFUL SITES/INFORMATION:-

HK Tourism Itinerary Creator: http://www.discover hongkong. com/eng/trip- planner/itinerar y-planner. html

You can also check the article "Hong Kong: 10 Things to Do in 24 Hours": http://www.time.com/time/travel/cityguide/article/0,31489,1850110,00.html

**CHURCH SERVICES**
If you are in Hong Kong and would like to hear mass, you can check out the link for the HK Catholic Church Services Information.