When a child is born in Hong Kong, s/he is immediately vaccinated against Tuberculosis.
My eldest was born in London, England, while my youngest was born in Denver, Colorado. Neither has been vaccinated against Tuberculosis. We have traveled for years, lived in different parts of the US, Asia and Europe, and only recently have we wondered whether or not to vaccinate our girls against TB.
My husband travels to the Philippines frequently for work, which is why the question is now coming to our attention. That, and I recently heard that helpers who return home can be exposed to it (it is so prevalent there) and bring it back (to your family) unknowingly.
Of course there are risks in life. Living abroad increases those risks. So does it make sense to give my girls yet another vaccine? One that takes months to heal and leaves a big scar on your arm? Or do we chance it? Hmmm.... getting rid of it once you have it sounds like it can take up to two years. And I have to say, it sounds pretty ugly.
Wish I had some great advice, like drink lots of green tea (you should, it's good for you), but I don't. I don't know what the answer is, but I think I am going to have to get the girls vaccinated. Assess your own risk, consult a doctor and try to make the very best decision you can for you and your family.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/tuberculosis/DS00372When
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Family Trips
We wanted to spend a week away. Somewhere nice and relaxing. Somewhere in the same time zone (easy on the kids). Somewhere that had a good kids club (for age 2 and age 4).
Our friends recommended the Shangri-La in Cebu (the Philippines).
http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/cebu/mactanresort
We were impressed by the grounds; our daughter was ecstatic about the kids club (age 4+), which we were happy about as the sun is so strong. I loved the fish feeding in the morning. But it is worth mentioning that being foodies, we weren't impressed by the food. That said, the staff was very friendly. The concierge actually arranged for a piece of Aloe Vera plant to be delivered by my request to help heal "sun-kissed" skin.
There was a lovely Filipino performance on Friday night - gorgeous costumes, music and dance. And fireworks. The girls LOVED it (so did I) - definitely worth planning a trip around.
So for those who are just looking for a little rest and relaxation, you may want to consider a trip to Cebu. It's close. Great weather. Very relaxing. And offers more mangoes then you have ever seen.
For those adventurous enough to leave the resort, you will be able to explore Cebu, the oldest city in the Philippines. Ferdinand Magellan brought a cross to the island and was killed in Cebu. Diving is also supposed to be great in Cebu, although we didn't do it.
Down side? Food. And the fact the villages nearby burn their garbage at dusk, which creates a thick haze you can see (and smell) from your balcony.
Our friends recommended the Shangri-La in Cebu (the Philippines).
http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/cebu/mactanresort
We were impressed by the grounds; our daughter was ecstatic about the kids club (age 4+), which we were happy about as the sun is so strong. I loved the fish feeding in the morning. But it is worth mentioning that being foodies, we weren't impressed by the food. That said, the staff was very friendly. The concierge actually arranged for a piece of Aloe Vera plant to be delivered by my request to help heal "sun-kissed" skin.
There was a lovely Filipino performance on Friday night - gorgeous costumes, music and dance. And fireworks. The girls LOVED it (so did I) - definitely worth planning a trip around.
So for those who are just looking for a little rest and relaxation, you may want to consider a trip to Cebu. It's close. Great weather. Very relaxing. And offers more mangoes then you have ever seen.
For those adventurous enough to leave the resort, you will be able to explore Cebu, the oldest city in the Philippines. Ferdinand Magellan brought a cross to the island and was killed in Cebu. Diving is also supposed to be great in Cebu, although we didn't do it.
Down side? Food. And the fact the villages nearby burn their garbage at dusk, which creates a thick haze you can see (and smell) from your balcony.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Food Shopping
My husband and I first lived in Hong Kong over twelve years ago. Western groceries were scarce (and only available in Central as far as we knew).
When we returned to Hong Kong earlier this year, we were blown away by how easy it is to buy Western food. Here are some recommendations (special thanks to Sarah for her contribution!)...
When we returned to Hong Kong earlier this year, we were blown away by how easy it is to buy Western food. Here are some recommendations (special thanks to Sarah for her contribution!)...
- Frozen meat place behind Steamers
- Australian butcher in old Hang Hau
- Taste in Hang Hau for hard to find stuff
- Fusion in Clearwater Bay for western foods and really nice fresh veg/fruit and meat
- Classified for posh cheese and wine (good bread, too!)
- Wellcome Marina Cove - when Sai Kung is just at a standstill (smaller, but does the trick)
- Wellcome Sai Kung will deliver groceries on the same day if purchased before noon
- Park and Shop for excellent online and home delivery service
- Sunday market at Lions Nature Park
- Italian deli in the old town
- Mushroom Bakery - next to Anthony's Ranch. Offers nice selection of frozen prepared meals and baked goods.
- Butcher King - Also next to Anthony's Ranch. Offers good selection of deli meats and often imported foods you can't find elsewhere (spices, canned goods)
Mandarin!
So I can't believe how hard it is for a child to learn Mandarin in Hong Kong! Seriously. I thought Mandarin lessons would be inexpensive, and plentiful - I was wrong. But in the end, I found a wonderful resource in Sai Kung ... Jumpstart!
My daughter actually LOST vocabulary (me: how do you say blue? my daughter: I don't know) while attending her local kindie, but has gained it back (and much more) thanks to Jumpstart. I can't sing enough praises - especially for their longer sessions (2.5 hours). My daughter is actually arguing in Chinese after only two months. Money well spent!
For more information, visit: http://www.jumpstartmlc.com/index.html
My daughter actually LOST vocabulary (me: how do you say blue? my daughter: I don't know) while attending her local kindie, but has gained it back (and much more) thanks to Jumpstart. I can't sing enough praises - especially for their longer sessions (2.5 hours). My daughter is actually arguing in Chinese after only two months. Money well spent!
For more information, visit: http://www.jumpstartmlc.com/index.html
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Primary 1
I moved to Hong Kong in part because I believed that my children might get a better education at an international school, then they would at a local public school in America. Since I arrived eight months ago, I have learned quite a bit about the application process for Primary 1 - much I thought was worth sharing...
First, the class sizes are large - as is the student/teacher ratio (30:1 is average for ESF schools).
Second, getting into schools is far more difficult then I ever imagined it would be. The stress that goes along with getting a four-year-old a spot at a desirable school is no different then the stress of applying to a good college. Applications begin in September, interviews happen in January, placements are offered and school starts in the fall.
Third, if you live in Sai Kung, you are limited by how long a bus ride you think your 5-year-old can endure. Many parents think nothing of putting their children on a 6 am-ish bus, for an 8ish start. As I can't imagine putting a 5-year-old on a bus for longer than 20 minutes, I am limited to the schools that are closer to Sai Kung.
They include:
- Clearwater Bay School
http://www.cwbs.edu.hk/
Over-subscribed - with an attitude to reflect it. The building and facilities seemed a little old, student/teacher ratios are high - nonetheless, it is a very desirable school. The best way to get in is to attend Abacus, a preschool that all but guarantees a spot. We arrived in Hong Kong too late to apply to Abacus, so I ended up (very happily) at New Song. As a result, we ended-up in the "category 1 lottery" for one of 17 spots (after the rest had been given to siblings, alumns, etc.) Most parents, it seems, are quite happy with it. Worth mentioning I've heard they have an exceptional special needs department.
- Renaissance College
http://www.renaissance.edu.hk/
Also over-subscribed (they received 650 applications for 124 spots), Renaissance offers the same student:teacher ratio, but newer (more impressive) facilities. The down-side for the average Westerner, is that Renaissance is bound to have a certain percentage (was it 70%?) of permanent resident card holders attend the school, which makes it hard for Western kids to get in. I've heard it's more academic then Clearwater Bay, but not quite as academic as a typical Chinese school. Worth mentioning there is no catchment area for Renaissance, which is one reason why the application number is so high.
- Japanese International School
http://es.jis.edu.hk/
I don't know much about this school, but I have heard nothing but RAVE reviews. While some parents fuss about CWB or Renaissance, I have not found a single person who has anything bad to say - other then how tough it is get into this school. It's supposed to be amazing.
- Sha Tin Junior College
http://www.shatincollege.edu.hk/
I don't know much about this school either, except it takes a more liberal approach to education. It appears to be good for kids who need a more flexible, less rigid learning environment.
- Hong Lok Yuen
http://www.hlyis.edu.hk/
A bit far, but supposedly has rolling hills and a family atmosphere. I did not consider it because it already had quite a wait list (kids move to Primary 1 from reception, so there are very few spots available).
- Hong Kong Academy (2012/2013)
http://www.hkacademy.edu.hk/
I've heard amazing things about this school, but they also have an amazingly high (40K!) mandatory debenture. Definitely worth applying to if your company can cover the debenture - or you have an extra 40K to spare.
No real advice to offer, other than to take a deep breath and dive in. Hope for the best. I have been lucky enough to get two interviews, after applying to 4 schools. I ran into a woman I know through play dates, and she did not get any invitations for an interview. So I count my lucky stars tonight.
First, the class sizes are large - as is the student/teacher ratio (30:1 is average for ESF schools).
Second, getting into schools is far more difficult then I ever imagined it would be. The stress that goes along with getting a four-year-old a spot at a desirable school is no different then the stress of applying to a good college. Applications begin in September, interviews happen in January, placements are offered and school starts in the fall.
Third, if you live in Sai Kung, you are limited by how long a bus ride you think your 5-year-old can endure. Many parents think nothing of putting their children on a 6 am-ish bus, for an 8ish start. As I can't imagine putting a 5-year-old on a bus for longer than 20 minutes, I am limited to the schools that are closer to Sai Kung.
They include:
- Clearwater Bay School
http://www.cwbs.edu.hk/
Over-subscribed - with an attitude to reflect it. The building and facilities seemed a little old, student/teacher ratios are high - nonetheless, it is a very desirable school. The best way to get in is to attend Abacus, a preschool that all but guarantees a spot. We arrived in Hong Kong too late to apply to Abacus, so I ended up (very happily) at New Song. As a result, we ended-up in the "category 1 lottery" for one of 17 spots (after the rest had been given to siblings, alumns, etc.) Most parents, it seems, are quite happy with it. Worth mentioning I've heard they have an exceptional special needs department.
- Renaissance College
http://www.renaissance.edu.hk/
Also over-subscribed (they received 650 applications for 124 spots), Renaissance offers the same student:teacher ratio, but newer (more impressive) facilities. The down-side for the average Westerner, is that Renaissance is bound to have a certain percentage (was it 70%?) of permanent resident card holders attend the school, which makes it hard for Western kids to get in. I've heard it's more academic then Clearwater Bay, but not quite as academic as a typical Chinese school. Worth mentioning there is no catchment area for Renaissance, which is one reason why the application number is so high.
- Japanese International School
http://es.jis.edu.hk/
I don't know much about this school, but I have heard nothing but RAVE reviews. While some parents fuss about CWB or Renaissance, I have not found a single person who has anything bad to say - other then how tough it is get into this school. It's supposed to be amazing.
- Sha Tin Junior College
http://www.shatincollege.edu.hk/
I don't know much about this school either, except it takes a more liberal approach to education. It appears to be good for kids who need a more flexible, less rigid learning environment.
- Hong Lok Yuen
http://www.hlyis.edu.hk/
A bit far, but supposedly has rolling hills and a family atmosphere. I did not consider it because it already had quite a wait list (kids move to Primary 1 from reception, so there are very few spots available).
- Hong Kong Academy (2012/2013)
http://www.hkacademy.edu.hk/
I've heard amazing things about this school, but they also have an amazingly high (40K!) mandatory debenture. Definitely worth applying to if your company can cover the debenture - or you have an extra 40K to spare.
No real advice to offer, other than to take a deep breath and dive in. Hope for the best. I have been lucky enough to get two interviews, after applying to 4 schools. I ran into a woman I know through play dates, and she did not get any invitations for an interview. So I count my lucky stars tonight.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Dog Island
I did not know until recently that the island you can see from the Sai Kung boardwalk is where all the stray dogs are sent - and where all the puppies (for sale in front of SK taxi stand on weekends) are collected. Apparently people drop food off on the island for the dogs, and they are allowed to roam free. Thoughtful and caring way of dealing with strays? Jury is out.
Pollution
When you can't see the islands off the shore, or the hills behind the hills in Sai Kung, you know the pollution level is TOO HIGH. So here's a site to check-out, that will make you (a) happy you are not living in Central, and (b) sad you are not living in the Australian outback.
http://www.epd-asg.gov.hk/
Time to investigate air purifiers...
http://www.epd-asg.gov.hk/
Time to investigate air purifiers...
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Local Hospitals
Ever since I became a mother, one of my first questions when we move to a new city is ... where is the closest hospital? Here's the answer if you live in Sai Kung.
Tseung Kwan O Hospital (Located near Hang Hau)
http://www.ha.org.hk/haho/ho/hesd/101326e.htm
Definitely a local, public hospital. English is somewhat limited. Definite process and procedure. I spent a day there with my little girl (20 months) and while the care was good, there were a few things that made me a little uncomfortable. If you have to go, you must bring everything YOU will need. Blanket, personal toiletries, everything you can think of. On positive side, they have really lovely volunteers who bring crafts around to the sick children and spend time with them and make them smile. And my daughter loved the congee.
Prince of Whales Hospital (Located in Ma On Shan/Sha Tin area)
http://www.sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au/powh/
This is a public hospital that has a private clinic as well. If you visit Dr. Siu (in Sai Kung) first, she can send a request for a doctor who specializes in whatever ailment you may need addressed. It's the fastest way to get in to see a specialist. A teaching hospital, it is meant to be one of the best around.
I went to see a specialist for a ladies issue. I found it big. Really big. And even though there was no one else in the private clinic, I was still asked to wait for 30 minutes. When I was finally called in, I saw a doctor who was definitely *not* a specialist in my area. She was kind, and knowledgeable, but not a specialist.
When I went to the bathroom, they definitely had not been cleaned well, which reminded me of my time when I was pregnant with my first baby in England.
*I have friends who have and are delivering there. They both seem to be having and have had a good experience with the public offerings.
*I have another friend who took their baby to the ER with bronchitis and had a VERY BAD experience. First, they had to queue with all the rest of the folks, so it took a VERY long time to see a doctor. There was no heat in the Children's ward, no blankets for the mum (although there was a heat lamp for the baby). They ended up transferring over to Union Hospital, close by, and had a WONDERFUL experience there. There was even a mickey mouse ward and the food was good.
Union Hospital (Located in Ma On Shan/Sha Tin area)
http://www.union.org/new/english/about_us/location.htm
Tseung Kwan O Hospital (Located near Hang Hau)
http://www.ha.org.hk/haho/ho/hesd/101326e.htm
Definitely a local, public hospital. English is somewhat limited. Definite process and procedure. I spent a day there with my little girl (20 months) and while the care was good, there were a few things that made me a little uncomfortable. If you have to go, you must bring everything YOU will need. Blanket, personal toiletries, everything you can think of. On positive side, they have really lovely volunteers who bring crafts around to the sick children and spend time with them and make them smile. And my daughter loved the congee.
Prince of Whales Hospital (Located in Ma On Shan/Sha Tin area)
http://www.sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au/powh/
This is a public hospital that has a private clinic as well. If you visit Dr. Siu (in Sai Kung) first, she can send a request for a doctor who specializes in whatever ailment you may need addressed. It's the fastest way to get in to see a specialist. A teaching hospital, it is meant to be one of the best around.
I went to see a specialist for a ladies issue. I found it big. Really big. And even though there was no one else in the private clinic, I was still asked to wait for 30 minutes. When I was finally called in, I saw a doctor who was definitely *not* a specialist in my area. She was kind, and knowledgeable, but not a specialist.
When I went to the bathroom, they definitely had not been cleaned well, which reminded me of my time when I was pregnant with my first baby in England.
*I have friends who have and are delivering there. They both seem to be having and have had a good experience with the public offerings.
*I have another friend who took their baby to the ER with bronchitis and had a VERY BAD experience. First, they had to queue with all the rest of the folks, so it took a VERY long time to see a doctor. There was no heat in the Children's ward, no blankets for the mum (although there was a heat lamp for the baby). They ended up transferring over to Union Hospital, close by, and had a WONDERFUL experience there. There was even a mickey mouse ward and the food was good.
Union Hospital (Located in Ma On Shan/Sha Tin area)
http://www.union.org/new/english/about_us/location.htm
Union Hospital became the twelfth private hospital in Hong Kong in 1994. It is the first private general hospital in the Eastern New Territories.
The Hospital has a 7-story main hospital building with 4 ward floors which accommodate 200 beds, a 3-story Medical Centre, a 24-story staff quarters as well as an underground car park with more than 170 spaces (bonus!). The recent addition includes the Minimally Invasive Centre, Day Therapy Centre, Surgical Ward and a 5-star-hotel-like Private Ward.
*I do not have any personal experience with this hospital but we have a friend who had a VERY good experience with the pediatric section.
Mosquitoes and Tiny Black Bugs
The down side of Sai Kung? Mosquitoes!!
For those who have just relocated to Sai Kung, it is not uncommon to see huge welts appear after a mosquito bite. The first bite my daughter received was on her wrist, which became raised and red and spread halfway up her arm and down to the first knuckle on her fingers. It took many, many doses of antihistamine and nearly a week to subside.
Luckily, after polling numerous ladies in Sai Kung, I discovered Butterfly water. A light, floral, Chinese perfume, Butterfly water is available in the Chinese medicine store between the carpet store and Ali Oli in the main square - it does wonders when it comes to keeping mosquitoes away. Use on small area of skin to make sure you don't have any allergies to ingredients (which aren't listed). I think it also gets stronger as you go, so be sure to shake the bottle before each use.
Best thing I've found for the tiny black bugs is light sesame body oil, made by Neutrogena. It is amazing! Can't buy it in Sai Kung - have to find a larger Watsons or Mannings. It might just change your life.
For those who have just relocated to Sai Kung, it is not uncommon to see huge welts appear after a mosquito bite. The first bite my daughter received was on her wrist, which became raised and red and spread halfway up her arm and down to the first knuckle on her fingers. It took many, many doses of antihistamine and nearly a week to subside.
Luckily, after polling numerous ladies in Sai Kung, I discovered Butterfly water. A light, floral, Chinese perfume, Butterfly water is available in the Chinese medicine store between the carpet store and Ali Oli in the main square - it does wonders when it comes to keeping mosquitoes away. Use on small area of skin to make sure you don't have any allergies to ingredients (which aren't listed). I think it also gets stronger as you go, so be sure to shake the bottle before each use.
Best thing I've found for the tiny black bugs is light sesame body oil, made by Neutrogena. It is amazing! Can't buy it in Sai Kung - have to find a larger Watsons or Mannings. It might just change your life.
Classes For Kids
For those with kids, I have found the following classes in and around Sai Kung.
In addition, there is an amazing outdoor recreation center located near the Sai Kung fire station. They offer a roller skating rink, a swimming pool, archery, indoor play area for small kids, art, etc. Offerings change according to the time of year.
- SWIM - Mango (private/group lessons) 90105962
- TENNIS - Lea (tennis coach) 27095051
- DANCE - Tina (hip hop and ballet) 27910511
- PIANO – Music Horizons (2791 7676)
- MANDARIN – Jumpstart (2791 4838)
- SOCCER – Peter (23859677)
- TINY TOT RUGBY – http://saikungstingrays.com (400 kids participate every Sunday)
- ART - Anastassia's art house (25260882)
In addition, there is an amazing outdoor recreation center located near the Sai Kung fire station. They offer a roller skating rink, a swimming pool, archery, indoor play area for small kids, art, etc. Offerings change according to the time of year.
Important Numbers
For those just moving into town, following are some important numbers.
General Emergency:
Doctors:
Weather Warnings:
Good Numbers To Know:
General Emergency:
- Emergency – 999
- Sai Kung Fire House – 2792-1553
- Poison control hotline - 26351111
Doctors:
- Dr. Siu – 27921601 (located near entrance of Stop & Shop car park, across from McDonalds)
- OT&P - 27196366 (1/F Razor Hill Dairy Farm Shopping Centre Clearwater Bay Road)
Weather Warnings:
- HK Weather – 1878200 (dial 3 for English)
- http://www.hko.gov.hk/contente.htm
Good Numbers To Know:
- Hong Kong Automobile Association – 35833628
- Peter, Man with a van - 90481506
- Taxi (1) - 23830168
- Taxi (2) - 27291199
- Eddie (Handyman) - 93372758
Settling In: About Sai Kung
Once a fishing village, Sai Kung Town now serves as a tourist destination and home to many expatriate families. Most residents live in small homes or village houses, as there are few apartment buildings. There are a wide range of restaurants, but Sai Kung is perhaps the best known for its seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
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