Archive for November, 2006
Australian Michelle Condon, 35, from Port Melbourne, is still in jail in Bali, awaiting her trial for possession of methamphetamine. There are variations of this drug, but all amount to the same thing, addiction.
From what I hear, methamphetamine is produced in large quantities in Burma, Thailand, Philippines and Indonesia. Recently the cops busted a factory 40 kms outside Jakarta. Not being into the nightclub scene, I’m not so exposed to drugs, other than walking around in Seminyak and on the beach. Strikes me,that the average Balinese locals is not interested either. I know there is a drug problem, but its not as if most people are into it.
When I moved to California in the 80’s, everyone and their brother were into something. I’d visit someone’s house and they’d bring stuff out, like offering cookies. Anyway, thank God, Bali isn’t that way. If you want to see a movie that gets into the life a meth addict, check out Spun.
Michelle Condon has been charged with drug possession, a charge which if found guilty of carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in jail. As The Age reports, if she can ‘prove’ (you read between the lines on that one) that she is an addict, and the drugs were for personal use, the court can award a 3 month sentence.
Good luck to Michelle, and let’s hope she doesn’t have to spend long in a Bali jail.
source : www.baliblog.com
November 30th, 2006
Southern Bali has a number of foreign consulates located primarily in Sanur and Denpasar. Anyone who has visited embassies and consulates knows what dull sterile places they are.
The one exception to this rule was the British consulate in Sanur which was located in the Cat & Fiddle Pub on Jl. Mertasari. I almost couldn’t believe it when somebody told me that, too good to be true? I thought.
Visiting the place many months ago I met the Honorary British Consul, Mark Wilson and his brother Phil. Checking in with them again, I found that the Cat & Fiddle itself, as well as the British Consulate have moved. The consulate has moved across the Bypass in Sanur, on Jl. Tirta Nadi.
When I arrived at the new Cat & Fiddle, Mark and Phil were sitting around the bar, and I got chatting with them. They told me that the British Embassy in Jakarta had directed him to move the consulate away from the pub for security reasons. The American and Australian Consulates are like fortresses and even though the pub didn’t seem busy it was an easy target for a terrorist. The new location of the pub, means a lot more walk up traffic, so hopefully business will pick up.
While I was sitting at the bar Mark and Phil’s lunch arrived, Mark going for the lamb and cheese salad, and Phil the chicken pie and chips. Hailing from Burnley in Lancashire they still retain a taste for the traditional foods. Mark’s salad is on the menu as ‘ham and cheese salad’, but he told me I could have slices of roast lamb today if I wanted. I did and it was great with lettuce, tomato, cheese, beetroot and boiled potatoes. This was helped along by a couple of cold Guinesses.
We chatted about English football, and I didn’t realize the county of Lancashire had such a history, with many great teams of past a present. I’m a Londoner, so kept that part of my identity in the background, although I did admit to being an Arsenal fan.
After Mark left for work Phil and I chatted and he told me was working out near Sukawati renting villas for Bali Masari Villas. After living in Jakarta for many years Phil made Bali his home 3 years ago.
The Irish music night is Tuesday and starts at 8pm. I have attended several times and it’s a good time. For me it was so much more enjoyable visiting a pub and sipping a beer with the ‘main man’, than lining up behind a bullet proof glass counter.
Cat & Fiddle Pub.
Jl. Camara #36
Sanur
(0361) 282218
British Consulate Bali
Jl. Tirta Nadi
Sanur
Tel: (0361) 270601 Fax: (0361) 287804
email: bcbali@dps.centrin.net.id
Office Hours: 0830-1230 Monday to Friday
Cat & Fiddle Pub
•What is it?
An English style pub, serving, a range of beers, draught Guinness, lunch and dinner.
•Where is it?
South of the Bypass in Sanur, on Jl. Camara.
•What makes this place unique?
Cat & Fiddle pub offers an English / Irish atmosphere, English and Irish food, and Irish Music night.
•Admission:
Irish Music night is free.
•Dress code:
Informal
•Who would the Cat & Fiddle Pub be good for?
People who like the pub culture. People who enjoy an Anglo / Irish scene. People who are looking for a friendly place, where you can talk to the boss, and enjoy some live music. Older couples looking for a fun night out.
•Who would the Cat & Fiddle Pub not be good for?
People who want a nightclub scene. People looking for a more trendy scene.
•Driving time from Kuta?
20 minutes
source : www.baliblog.com
November 30th, 2006
Bali offers an endless array of interesting sights and sounds. My favourite thing to do is cruise around by scooter and find new places, that have that special quality. It can be a shady tree-lined street, a small lane with locals sitting outside, or a local temple appearing out of the rice fields.
Bali: Lakes in the Clouds‘, is a trip journal by krissz, detailing his adventures in Bali. He used a Kymco scooter and seemed to enjoy himself.
Renting a scooter to exlpore, or just get around town is simple. There are dozens of places in Kuta, Legian, Semiyak, all pretty much the same, offering daily rates ofr around 40,000-50,000rp. I pay 400,000rp per month, so the longer you rent for the better deal you’ll get. You’ll need an International Driving Licence and make sure the bike is fitted with mirrors (some locals unscrew them). The rental place should provide you with a helmet.
Safe travels.
source : www.baliblog.com
November 30th, 2006
Renting a car to explore Bali, is the way to go in my opinion. You have to watch out for yourself though, and my mind goes back to one little fender bender I had back in 2004.
Having rented a car with my friend Donovan, to get down to Uluwatu the day before, it was time to return it. Returning the Peroza on Saturday to the place on Jl. Padma, I gave Donovan a tour of some of the back streets of Legian. “It’s just a maze down here,” he said, “with no thought to planning.”The car hire people rented all kinds of vehicles, from Suzuki Katanas to Toyota Kijangs. My Peroza is the ‘in between’ vehicle. We made contact with one of the guys from the shop and he checked out the vehicle. My gang (alley) is extremely narrow with tight turns, and I must of touched one side of the rear bumper, against a hard surface. There was an inch long crack in it, although the vehicle itself was several years old. While driving we noticed it was in a pretty bad state, lousy squeaky brakes, pollution city, didn’t idle without stalling. “You damage car so you must pay?” said the guy. “Look it’s a tiny crack and the bumper has scrapes all over.” I said. We checked it out from all angles, and he told me he wanted me to buy a whole new side section for the bumper. “Look there’s no way I’m buying a new bumper.” I said, “I’ll glue it together.” “No, glue no good, you must buy new one.” said the guy again. I paid him 150,000rp for the extra day, and after getting ‘heated’ in the office, told him I’d bring back glue to fix the bumper.
Donovan was planning on renting a Suzuki from the same place, but that was shot once he saw how they work. We started walking down the street towards Jl. Legian, and the guy followed us in the car. “Where are you going?” he said. “To Circle K to get the super glue.” I said.
I ended up riding with him, eventually purchasing a tube of superglue. We glued the crack shut, and it was hard to see the split standing back.
There was no way I was buying a new bumper, ‘beat it out of me’, was my mentality. We ended up on decent terms, but I really hate this ’screw job’ they try to put on you, when something goes wrong. My suggestion for future happenings, don’t panic, stand your ground, try to be polite and offer an alternative solution. I could just see in this guy’s eyes he was hoping for a score.
Tips for renting a car in Bali
•Negotiate, realize there are a ton of places, and you are in a position to choose.
•Check out the car thoroughly before signed their form.
•Test the AC / seats before driving off. I have made the mistake of checking the car for dents, then realizing down the road the AC doesn’t work.
•Walk around the car taking digital photos. I do this and make sure the guy sees me doing it, so we’re on the same page.
•Realize when the car shows up, it will of been drained of fuel, right before. You’ll have to make a stop at a perol station immediately.
•If you are just renting the car for a day, don’t fill up the tank completely. There are no refunds for extra petrol (love how this works!).
•Make sure you have the registration with you.
•Pick up a business card from the rental place, in case of accident / trip extension.
I have found many rental places to be reasonable with time, as far as returning the car. On previous occassions, I have rented a car in the morning and returned it the same day, saving them money. In the same vein, renters have in the past, allowed me to take a car at 6pm on monday, to use on tuesday and return on wednesday morning, charging me for 24 hours. So some people can be cool, you just have to communicate with them.
source : www.baliblog.com
November 30th, 2006
Southern Bali is where 95% of tourists come to and spend their time. The most southerly tip of mainland Bali is the Bukit Peninsula. The Bukit is way behind Kuta / Legian / Seminyak / Sanur as far as development, but is getting popular, with people outside of the surfing industry.
The Bukit is a limestone plateau and the beaches are a pale yellow / white sand. The largest beaches on the Bukit are in Nusa Dua, Dreamland has the largest beach on the western side.
One of the best Bali beaches, is at the very southern end of the Bukit. Looking at a map, you ride up the hill from Jimbaran, heading to Uluwatu. Instead of turning west, you keep going stright south, towards Pura Masuka. This temple is tiny and is perched on a clifftop, overlooking the ocean. Directly in front of it is a hiking trail that leads you down to the beach, which is usually empty. The hike takes about 15 minutes.
A French guy told me once that along the coast to the west, is another empty beach. With even less access, you are assured of privacy. The Bukit is only 15 minutes from Kuta, so if Kuta beach isn’t what you’re looking for, get adventurous and check out the Bukit.
source : www.baliblog.com
November 30th, 2006
Bali is rich in history and tradition. With various waves of migration from Java, the cultural complexity was amplified. One of the stranger examples of things getting twisted is the caste system, whereby descendents of the masses, merchants, warriors & kings, and priests, are indentified by name.
The stange part is that 90% of the population fall into the lowest caste, called Sudra. They are also known as ‘jaba’ (outsiders), which is weird, because most of the high caste Balinese came from Java. One group of people who add another dimension to this ‘who are the real Balinese?’ question, are the Bali Aga.
The original inhabitants of Bali, the Bali Aga, live a reclusive life in the mountains to the east, the north and central Bali.It is believed there are several thousand Bali Aga people living in the mountainous regions and they speak their own dialect. The Bali Aga inhabited Bali well before the Majapahit invasion in 1343AD. The Balinese today are actually descendants of the Wong Majapahit who were 15thC migrants from East Java when finally the Majapahit empire fell. There is a distinct indifference between the two, and the Bali Aga ensure it remains this way by their seclusion.
I have always found the Bali Aga to be a fascinating and beautiful people whenever I have visited the villages. Many travellers I have spoken to over the years have found them to be aggressive, and indeed, unwelcoming. If you ever visit Bali, I strongly suggest you take some time to visit one or two of the Bali Aga villages. Below is a brief descripton of a few villages:
TENGANAN: Probably the only Bali Aga village to embrace tourism albeit in a limited capacity being situated only 5 klms inland from Candi Dasa. This 700 year old, walled-in village (where the inhabitants believe they are descended from Gods) is unique in many ways. There are 3 parallel streets with 3 others running east to west.
Tenganan is actually a communal village which prohibits divorce or polygamy. Unlike their counterparts in the mountains, the Bali Aga at Tenganan are more reserved and friendly. This is the only place in the whole of Indonesia where double-ikat cloth is woven on handlooms. Often called ‘Flame cloth’, the colours are striking. There is a 3 day festival held once a year in the village called UDABA SAMBAH and held mid-year usually in the months of Juni/Juli. Well worth checking out!
In the mountains to the north-west of Bali lies Gung Batur. There is located Kintamani, a tourist mecca. However, it is the Bali Aga villages in this region that are the most interesting. Nick and I will be visiting these villages on an upcoming roadtrip, so look forward to Nick’s excellent write-up and great fotos.
TARO: Unfortunately they have plonked an elephant park (tourism induced) near this beautiful small village. Located south-west of Penelokan, Taro has a unique ‘Bale Agung’ or council house, and is the centre of the community’s religious and political life. The council house is the longest one in Bali. Quite a sight!.
There are actually 3 villages in close proximity situated between the mountains Catur and Batur - BATUKAANG, CATUR and SELULUNG. In these villages you will find remains of monuments which are very primitive pre-Hindu, various stone statues, and interestingly, Polynesian styled megalithic pyramids. Be warned though, in these areas the ground underfoot is treacherously slippy and the terrain extremely moist due to the elevation.
TRUNYAN: A stark village void of vegetation, it is believed it was founded around 882-914AD right on the spot where an ancient tree, whose odours were of incense, stood. There is an old temple, Pura Pancering Jagat, which like most temples on Bali stands under a massive Banyan tree. There are many unique buildings within the temple and differ greatly to other Balinese temples. The ‘Bale Agung’ is in fact one of the largest traditional buildings on Bali. Within the temple you can find the largest statue on Bali - Ratu Gede Pancering Jagat. The almost 4 meter high statue is made of clay and stone. It is considered to be very ancient and possess magical powers.
The most interesting aspect (if you can call it that!) in Trunyan is the cemetery. An eerie place full of bones, rotting corpses and skulls. Not believing in cremation, the Bali Aga of Trunyan wrap the dead bodies in white cloth and place them on bamboo racks exposing them to the elements as well as scavengers. It’s quite a bizarre place and not one you would visit after a night on the town!. Seriously though, it is an amazing place.
And lastly, whenever you visit any Bali Aga village, always be respectful and more importantly, there is a certain dress code when entering any temple or village. The Bali Aga villages are absolutely fascinating in every aspect.
(The main body of the this article was provided by Barrie)
source : www.baliblog.com
November 30th, 2006
Galungan is the most important ceremony on the Balinese calendar. Most Balinese people get to go home to their village, to participate in family ceremonies. This morning, I even got an sms from a Balinese friend wishing me health and happiness.
Cafe Seminyak was open this morning, the staff decked out it Balinese traditional outfits. In the Kuta area its pretty even, the places that are open and closed. If you are a tourist in Kuta right now, its just means you’ll have less choice for a day or 2. Kuta Beach was a popular place this afternoon, with foreign and domestic tourists. Right now we’re in a bit of a tourist slump, which will probably continue till Christmas. The thing is, we have perfect weather right now, with reduced winds.Walking along Jl. Benesari I saw kid’s gamelan troupe, doing their bit to drum up funds. They moved along the street, stopping at the open shops, banging out some music and then leaving a few minutes later. If I were in a gamelan orchestra, I’d play symbols, lighter to carry and more fun that the other instruments. A vendor told me, the going rate was a donation of 5,000rp.
source : www.baliblog.com
November 30th, 2006
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source : www.asia-planet.net
November 28th, 2006
Hong Kong’s cuisine is renowned for its exotic fusion of Eastern and Western flavours along with a wide variety of culinary delights. Its cultural blend, proximity to mainland China and reputation for quality have made Hong Kong the world’s undisputed Gourmet Paradise. Discover the veritable smorgasbord of cuisine in the World of Dining from every Asian delicacy to the very best Western fare. In order to attract visitors, quality service is a must. The Hong Kong Tourism Board rewards local enterprises that provide exemplary service and help raise Hong Kong’s profile as a world-class city with the Hong Kong Awards for Services.
Hong Kong Awards for Services
The annual Hong Kong Awards for Services is a welcome opportunity to give official recognition to organisations whose outstanding achievements help raise Hong Kong’s profile as a world-class city with a trademark for excellence. Now in its sixth year, the Hong Kong Award for Services: Tourism Services is organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board as part of the Awards scheme. This year, it attracted a record number of 71 entries from large, medium and small-sized companies providing services/facilities such as accommodation, food and beverage, retail, inbound tour co-ordination and other tourism-related services. Each and every entrant has made unfailing efforts to add fresh qualities to Hong Kong’s tourism product. The winners are recognised for their high service standards, providing visitors with a consistent quality of service and performance.
World of Dining
Hong Kong has a world of exquisite, mouth-watering dining options. As you would expect, good Chinese restaurants are found everywhere in Hong Kong. Some of the best can be found in major hotels and shopping complexes. Most specialise in one or more of the following: Cantonese, Chiu Chow, Hunan, Szechuan, Peking, Shanghainese or Chinese Vegetarian. As an international city, many cultures and tastes are represented in Hong Kong’s world of dining. Enjoy fine dining or casual family-style meals in some of Hong Kong’s Eastern and Western restaurants. Day and night, Hong Kong’s gourmet delights are plentiful. Whether you want to pick up a snack or dress to a theme, the City of Life offers it all.
Chinese Food
The variety of flavours, aromas and textures of Chinese cuisine are sure to delight the palate. Some Chinese dishes are simple and others gourmet exotica, but all are designed to satisfy your senses. The most popular styles of Chinese cooking in Hong Kong are Cantonese, Chiu Chow and Shanghainese. Cantonese and Chiu Chow both originate from the same Chinese province of Guangdong but are vastly different in style and flavour. Many restaurants also specialise in vegetarian fare, famous Peking dishes and the zesty flavours of Hunan and Szechuan. For the ultimate experience, indulge in a bottle of Chinese wine. In flavour and distillation process, these wines are completely different and definitely worth a try.
How to use chopsticks - A quick lesson on how to use chopsticks!
1. Hold one chopstick still in your thumb joint.
2. Balance the other chopstick between your index and middle finger.
3. Use your thumb, first and index fingers to manipulate the top chopstick in a pincer movement.
Cantonese
The fresh, natural flavours of Cantonese cuisine are designed to tantalise the taste buds. Cantonese is the best-known style of Chinese cooking worldwide. Ingredients are purchased and prepared the same day and cooked just before serving, using few spicy seasonings. In many seafood restaurants, diners can choose fish from the tanks in which they are swimming. The price of the seafood is determined on a “pay by tael” basis. A tael is a Chinese unit of measurement, approximately equal to 1.2 ounces. Dried seafoods such as shark’s fin, abalone and conpoy, are often served.
Enjoy an old Cantonese custom, dim sum, which is inextricably linked to the Chinese tradition of yum cha or “drinking tea”. Dim sum (literally “to touch the heart”) are special Cantonese snacks chosen from steaming bamboo baskets of delectable dishes paraded past on trolleys. Hong Kong boasts the best international dim sum chefs, who prepare mouth-watering delicacies such as steamed pork spareribs, steamed buns with roast pork and har gao, shrimp dumplings with a translucent skin. There are usually three to four pieces per order, with each dish, plate or steamer basket having a different price. When getting your teacup filled, it is Chinese custom to tap your fingers on the table near your cup twice as a sign of reverence and thanks. Another style of Cantonese dining can be found at outdoor cooked-food stalls. These aromatic eating-places serve some of the best - but very simple - seafood, noodle and rice dishes - typically in an alfresco atmosphere.
Chiu Chow
Tantalising taste sensations and refined poultry dishes are the hallmark of Chiu Chow cuisine. The Chiu Chow flavours originated around the Swatow district of eastern Guangdong province and are now among the most popular in Hong Kong. Piquant sauces often enhance dishes, with tangerine jam for steamed lobsters and broad-bean paste for fish. Duck and goose are Chiu Chow favourites. Spicy goose is served with garlic and vinegar sauce. Many Chiu Chow classic dishes are light and tasty, with an abundant use of vegetables. Chiu Chow chefs are skilled vegetable carvers, creating fine flowers, birds, dragons and phoenixes from carrots and ginger. The region’s deluxe delicacies include shark’s fin and bird’s nest soups. The pungent Tiet Kwun Yum oolong tea served in tiny cups before and after a meal is a digestive aid.
Shanghainese
Experience the sensationally rich, sweet flavours of Shanghainese cuisine. Shanghai does not have a definitive cuisine of its own, but refines those of the surrounding provinces. Its flavours are heavier and oilier than Cantonese cuisine, featuring preserved vegetables, pickles and salted meats. Lime-and-ginger-flavoured “1,000-year-old” eggs are perhaps Shanghai’s best-known culinary creation. Beggar’s Chicken is a legendary dish wrapped in lotus leaves, covered in clay and oven-fired to steamy, tasty perfection - in olden times, it was baked in the ground. Other popular dishes include hairy crab, “eight treasure” duck, “drunken” chicken, braised eel and yellow fish. Dumplings, breads and noodles are served more often than rice.
Peking
Originated in the Imperial courts, Peking’s stylistic dishes are fit for an emperor. This mouth-watering cuisine is renowned for its use of the best ingredients. Its flavours are influenced by highly flavoured roots and vegetables such as peppers, garlic, ginger, leek and coriander (”Chinese parsley”). The food of this northerly city is substantial, to keep the body warm. Noodles, dumplings, and breads (baked, steamed or fried) are served instead of rice. The most famous dish, Peking duck, is usually prepared for a minimum of six people. To achieve the prized crisp skin, the duck is air-dried, then coated with a mixture of syrup and soy sauce before roasting. The skin is deftly carved at the table and the slivers of skin are wrapped in thin pancakes with spring onions or leeks, cucumber, turnip and delicious plum sauce. Popular, too, are “sizzling” plates of seafood or meat, and succulent beggar’s chicken. A whole chicken is stuffed with mushrooms, pickled Chinese cabbage, herbs and onions, wrapped in lotus leaves, sealed in clay and cooked slowly. Usually, the guest of honour breaks open the clay with a mallet, allowing a fragrant aroma to escape and revealing a chicken so tender that it can be pulled apart with chopsticks.
Szechuan & Hunan
The fiery flavours of Szechuan and Hunan are renowned for their intensity. Landlocked Hunan’s chilli-rich cuisine is similar to that of western China’s Szechuan province. Chilli, garlic and the unusual “strange sauce” enliven many dishes. Mustard sauce complements duck’s tongues, and minced bean paste forms a pungent and powdery coating for fish or scallops. Honey sauces are favoured for desserts such as water chestnut or cassia-flower cakes. Hunan’s range of soups includes noodles in soup, mashed pigeon in consomme and a salty, thin version of the West’s pea soup. Although rice is Hunan’s staple, northern-style bean-curd “bread” rolls or dumplings and savoury buns are also popular. Bursting with flavour, Szechuan food includes some of the spiciest dishes in China, so check the chilli content on the menu. The zest of dishes is flavoured with star anise, fennel seed, chilli, coriander (”Chinese parsley”) and other spices. Chillied bean paste, peppercorns and garlic are also widely used. Chicken, pork, river fish and shellfish are popular ingredients, and noodles or steamed bread are preferred to rice.
Not all Szechuan cuisine is spicy. Common cooking methods include smoking and simmering, which allow peppers and aromatic seasonings time to infuse food with unforgettable tastes and aromas. Traditional dishes include crispy beef, deep fried with tangy kumquat peel, and duck, the premier Szechuan specialty. The duck is flavoured with peppercorns, ginger, cinnamon, orange peel and coriander, marinated in Chinese wine for 24 hours, steamed for two hours, then smoked over a charcoal fire with camphor-wood chips and red tea leaves added.
Vegetarian
Hong Kong’s vegetarian cuisine is well regarded for its healing and nutritional qualities. The soya bean, processed into bean curd (tofu), is the prime ingredient of vegetarian cuisine. The curd is prepared to taste similar to roast duck, barbecued pork, salted chicken, scallops and delicacies. China’s treasury of mushrooms and other types of fungi add variety to the vegetarian cuisine.
Festive food
Symbolic food plays a crucial role in celebrations throughout the Lunar calendar.
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year represents new beginnings. Richly flavoured cakes, called nin go, are extremely popular during this time because to the Chinese they represent success. Nin in Cantonese means “year” and go, “high”, so to eat these foretells a successful year ahead. Lotus seeds in a sweet soup, called lin chi, is also popular. It is offered to newly married couples because the name, lin chi means “every year a son”, urging couples to have children soon.
Dragon Boat Festival
Entwined in the mythology of the Dragon Boat Festival is zongzi, a tasty glutinous rice dumpling. Some believe that when poet Qu Yuan committed suicide in 278 BC by jumping in a river, locals threw rice into the river as a sacrifice to their dead hero, and to nourish his spirit. In a dream, the poet revealed the fish were eating the rice and requested it be bundled and wrapped in silk to protect it. In another version, the rice packets were meant for the fish, in an effort to keep them from devouring Qu Yuan’s body. There are many different types of zongzi. Hong Kong’s favourite dumpling features pork soaked in soy sauce or bean paste in the middle of the glutinous rice. Zongzi come in many shapes, but are most commonly triangular or pyramid shaped.
Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is held on the fifteenth day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, when the moon is at its maximum brightness for the entire year. These mooncakes can be found in any bakery before the festival in all shapes and sizes. They may be filled with an assortment of ingredients including dates, nuts, lotus seed paste, bean paste and even pork or Chinese sausages.
Chinese Wines
The distinct flavours of Chinese wines are designed to perfectly complement your meal. Unlike Western wines, Chinese wine is distilled from rice, millet and other grains, as well as herbs and flowers. A wide variety of tonic wines are made with traditional ingredients. The popular rice-based Xiao Qing, Yellow Wine, is best served warm. It tastes similar to medium-dry sherry and goes well with a wide range of Chinese cuisine, especially during the cool season. Gao Liang and Mao Tai are fiery, millet-based distillations with an alcoholic content of 70 per cent. These are definitely best sampled after a hearty meal. Wu Jia Pi, is a sweet herbal wine believed to have medicinal qualities.
source : www.asia-planet.net
November 28th, 2006
Hong Kong is knoEvents
wn as the Events Capital of Asia. Throughout the year, we offer spellbinding film and arts Festivals. Concerts by famous international artists and local Canto-pop singers create dynamic experiences. Theatre productions include dramas, Broadway musicals, contemporary and Chinese Dance, as well as ballet. The calendar also features thrilling Sports, including horseracing, rugby, golf and soccer. Click on any of these links to find out more about your favourite event in Hong Kong plus information on the many Performing Companies which feature homegrown talent that Hong Kong is rightly proud of.
Festivals
Hong Kong offers up eclectic festivals that will whet the appetite of visitors and locals alike. Cinephiles will enjoy the offerings of the Hong Kong International Film Festival. Equally pulsating entertainment comes from the Hong Kong Arts Festival, one of the best such events in the Asia-Pacific region. Cultural offerings with a decidedly more Asian flavour can be found at the Legends of China festival (Oct/Nov 2003) and the New Vision Arts Festival (Oct/Nov 2004), which are held in alternate years. Hong Kong also boasts the finest celebration of French culture in Asia with Le French May. Continuing in a European vein comes a celebration of all things Italian with Italy 2003: Quality & Lifestyle.
Hong Kong International Film Festival
From international award-winning movies to avant-garde indies, this 16-day extravaganza in April screens nearly 300 films from around the world. It is a premier cultural event that never fails to entertain. Popular categories include Hong Kong Panorama and a retrospective from the Hong Kong Film Archive. For more information about this event, please visit their website.
Hong Kong Arts Festival
Tickets sell at a record clip for this three-week arts feast held annually in February and March. From world-class ballet to stunning symphonic offerings; from grand theatre to the giants of modern music, performers from around the globe descend upon Hong Kong for an all-star cultural extravaganza. For more information about the festival, visit their website. In 2004, look for the Komische Oper Berlin, Sir Colin Davis with the London Symphony Orchestra, Campañia Nacional de Danza from Spain and The Art of Cheng Yanqiu: 100th Anniversary.
Legends of China
One of the largest festivals of its kind, Legends of China runs from mid-October to mid-November 2003. This biennial festival showcases the best Chinese arts and culture with world-renowned artists and ensembles from Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and overseas Chinese communities. You can see stage performances, workshops, seminars, outdoor shows and exhibitions. The rich tapestry of Chinese history, literature and legends are brought to life during this unique festival that promotes the understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture and history.
New Vision Arts Festival
Part of Hong Kong’s vibrancy is fuelled by the city’s fusion of Eastern and Western elements. The New Vision Arts Festival highlights this connection with a month-long cultural bonanza featuring artists from Asia and the West. It could be modern dance or Chinese opera, theatre or ballet, and everything in between. Stories are told in refreshingly different ways that highlight the synthesis of East and West. This festival is a biennial event and will be held again in October and November 2004. For more information visit their website.
Le French May
This annual festival of French arts and culture enhances the European flavour within Hong Kong. Elite French symphonies provide stunning music led by world-famous conductors. Jazz musicians improvise perfection. Cutting-edge theatre transforms old themes. Complementing these performances are displays of French art, cuisines to savour and wine to whet the palate. For more information on Le French May, please visit their website.
Italy 2003: Quality & Lifestyle
Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population. The Italian community in Hong Kong celebrates all their country has to offer with Italy 2003: Quality & Lifestyle. Fine Italian food, fashion, films and Ferraris are just some of what this annual festival of excellence has to offer. To find out what in store at this year’s Italian festival, visit their website.
Concerts
The music scene in Hong Kong is brimming over with activity offering fans of every stripe the musical moments that they will cherish forever. Home-grown Canto-pop stars create unique music that is distinctly Hong Kong. Among those performing in the past year were Kelly Chen, Sammi Cheng, Jackie Cheung, Andy Hui, Aaron Kwok, Leon Lai and Andy Lau.
Theatre
Hong Kong people love big, glitzy Broadway musicals and have been swept away by the likes of Singin’ In The Rain, the beloved Hollywood musical starring Gene Kelly. Fame - the Musical was a hit as were Les Misérables, CHICAGO - The Musical and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s smash-hit Phantom of the Opera.
Dance
The eclectic world of movement exists in many shapes and forms within Hong Kong, from classical ballet to contemporary Chinese dance. Hong Kong boasts a variety of homegrown dance companies and plays host to dance companies from North America, Europe and the rest of Asia.
Sports
Horseracing, rugby, cricket, golf, tennis, soccer, marathon running and dragon boat racing are just some of the exciting attractions Hong Kong has lined up sports fans from around the globe. The action never stops in Hong Kong.
Horseracing
Horseracing is the sport that defines Hong Kong: fast paced, a field of international competitors, vast amounts of money and a favourite of all. From September to June, on most Wednesday evenings and weekends, hoofs pounding down the stretch can be heard at the two glittering racetracks: Happy Valley on Hong Kong Island and Sha Tin in the New Territories. Don’t miss the prestigious international horse races like the Queen Elizabeth II Cup and the Hong Kong International Races when world-class horses and jockeys fly into Hong Kong to compete for the world’s richest purses. Check the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s website for the latest horseracing information.
Rugby
Hong Kong comes alive as the famous Seven’s fever grips the city in March. Twenty-four of the world’s top seven-a-side teams compete in this dynamic event while enthusiastic spectators revel in the action. In addition to the Hong Kong Sevens, the weeklong celebration also includes a RugbyFest, the Hong Kong Tens and a Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens & Asian Championships.
Cricket
The Hong Kong Cricket Sixes provides a wonderful weekend for cricket fans with some of the best cricket you are likely to find in these parts featuring teams from India, Pakistan and South African and Hong Kong. For more information about the event click on their website.
Golf
Hong Kong Open routinely attracts some of the world’s best players vying for the top prize. In past years, the tournament has attracted Tom Watson, Greg Norman, Bernhard Langer and Ian Woosnam. The Hong Kong Open features 60 players from the Davidoff Tour and 60 players from the European Tour. For more information on the golf tournament, please visit the Asian PGA website.
Tennis
Tremendous tennis action takes place at Centre Court in Victoria Park during the annual Hong Kong Ladies Challenge every January. Top ranked world stars like the Williams sisters and Monica Seles have dazzled Hong Kong audiences with their athletic artistry. For more information on the event please visit their website.
Soccer
Hong Kong is soccer crazy and there is no better time to catch the fever than during the Chinese New Year football tournament. This two-day, round-robin international tournament pits three of the world’s elite teams against a select group of Hong Kong all-stars. Games are played on Chinese New Year Day with the championship decided on the fourth day of Chinese New Year. To find out more about this great tournament, click here.
Marathon Running
With more than 18,000 participants in 2003, the Hong Kong Marathon is the biggest sporting event in the city. Runners from around the world and Hong Kong compete in the event’s marathon, half-marathon and 10-kilometre run. They follow a demanding course that takes them from the heart of Kowloon, up to the awe-inspiring Tsing Ma Bridge and over to Hong Kong Island. To learn more about this exciting event, visit the marathon’s website.
Dagon Boat Racing
Dragon boat racing is held to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival (Tuen Ng) and is one of the most exciting sports you’ll ever see in Hong Kong. With their crews straining on their paddles, these 15-metre-plus (50-foot) craft slice through the water with incredible speed. Local teams usually compete on Tuen Ng Festival Day (early June) and you can catch the action if you go to Aberdeen, Stanley, Sha Tin, Tai Po, Cheung Chau and Lantau Island.
Others
The action is fast and furious around the streets of Macau during their Grand Prix weekend in November. The Grand Prix not only offers gripping Formula Three racing, but also spellbinding motorcycle action. To learn more about this event, click here.
Performing Companies
Hong Kong offers sophisticated performances by dynamic local companies that explore new artistic concepts while perfecting traditional styles. Whether your interests run from classical music to contemporary dance, you’ll discover performances that are sure to please.
HONG KONG BALLET
“Hong Kong Ballet is considered a rising star on the international dance circuit.”
- The Globe and Mail - Toronto, November 2001
Founded in 1979, the Hong Kong Ballet has grown in stature to become one of the foremost classical ballet companies in Asia and has built an international reputation with successful tours to North America, Europe and Mainland China. The company presents a broad-based repertoire, covering both classical works as well as new works with a Chinese theme, such as The Last Emperor, The White Snake and Mu Lan.
HONG KONG DANCE COMPANY
Established in 1981 with the aim of promoting Chinese dance, the Hong Kong Dance Company has a repertoire that covers traditional and folk dances, dance dramas as well as original works based on Chinese and specifically Hong Kong themes. Since its establishment, the company has staged over a hundred productions choreographed by local, mainland and overseas choreographers to critical acclaim.
CITY CONTEMPORARY DANCE COMPANY
Founded by Willy Tsao in 1979, City Contemporary Dance Company is a Hong Kong-based professional dance company that endeavours to rally the best of Chinese talents to create dance in the contemporary context of China. Every year, the company reaches 100,000 people around the world with the distinctive style of its diverse range of programmes.
HONG KONG PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA (HKPO)
As Hong Kong’s oldest, largest and most active orchestra, the HKPO’s mission is to present classical music of an international standard, enriching the community’s quality of life. In its 29th season, the orchestra will present about 200 performances for about 200,000 people. Frequent radio and television broadcasts as well as recordings attract an even larger audience. The orchestra also tours overseas and 2003 marks its European debut.
HONG KONG CHINESE ORCHESTRA
Founded in 1977, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra is Hong Kong’s only professional Chinese orchestra. Under Music Director Yan Huichang’s baton, the 85-musician orchestra has undertaken the promoting of Chinese music as its mission. Its repertoire includes both traditional folk music and contemporary full-scale works.
HONG KONG SINFONIETTA
HONG KONG SINFONIETTA Founded in 1990, the Hong Kong Sinfonietta is a 58-member professional orchestra supported by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council. Under the leadership of Music Director Yip Wing-sie, the orchestra collaborates regularly with renowned artists and groups, and participates in the Hong Kong Arts Festival, Le French May and the Saint-Riquier Festival in France.
source : www.asia-planet.net
November 28th, 2006
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