KEF Listening Room: Immerse yourself in the joy of KEF’s wireless speakers at Pedder Arcade

Renowned British audio brand KEF, with its unwavering dedication to audio excellence, announces an immersive partnership with Pedder Arcade.

From today to 30 April, KEF Listening Room will be open to visitors of Hong Kong’s sanctuary for the refined shopper, and promises a captivating journey into the world of KEF’s wireless speakers.

Multi-sensory experience

Visitors will embark on a multi-sensory exploration through dedicated zones showcasing KEF’s curated collection. KEF Listening Room, Drake’s Dressing Room, and The Armoury Study all form part of this unique experience.

Rooted in craftsmanship, innovation and tradition, each brand brings its distinctive identity and heritage to the space, which will feature KEF’s signature wireless speakers throughout.

Connoisseurs seeking the finest in British design will be treated to unparalleled sound quality from a number of KEF products. Within the space, guests will get to experience LS60 Wireless, LS50 Wireless II, LSX II, the newly-released LSX II LT, Mu7 Wireless Headphones and KC62 Subwoofers.

Transformative power

“We are thrilled to partner with Pedder Arcade, a destination that embodies the same values of quality, craftsmanship, and innovation that define KEF,” says Grace Lo, KEF’s President and Head of Global Marketing, “This collaboration allows us to connect with Hong Kong’s discerning clientele and introduce them to the transformative power of our wireless collection.”

About KEF

Since 1961, KEF has firmly established itself at the forefront of audio excellence. From the early adoption of synthetic materials to the pioneering Reference Series that now determines industry standard, a foundation of technological innovation, design, and craftsmanship has led the brand to produce bar-setting products in speaker design.

Pedder Arcade

Pedder Arcade is Inspired by London’s Burlington Arcade and features a curated selection of high-end brands, art installations, and experiential spaces. Pedder Arcade is a destination for discerning shoppers who appreciate quality and craftsmanship. This is a haven of opulence and refinement nestled in the heart of Central.

Essential camping gadgets to level-up your next outdoor experience

With travel to far-off destinations still out of reach for most Hongkongers, ever more residents have taken to exploring the city’s hidden corners with overnight camping trips as a means of escaping the confines of home. For these intrepid outdoor enthusiasts, take a careful peruse through our favourite camping gadgets that ensure your next stay under the stars is seamlessly easy. 

gafencu camping gadgets for outdoors biolite camper stove charger
Image: BioLite

A portable two-in-one camp stove charging station
Meal time in the wilderness is made particularly easy with this electricity generating camp stove. Designed by BioLite, it elevates self-sufficiency to another level with its award-winning CampStove 2+ designed to burn anything from to wood scraps as fuel to not only cook your meals, but also charge your gears and phone at the same time. It uses 3W of power and can boil up to a litre of water in just 4.5 mins.
How much: HK$1,164

gafencu camping gadgets for outdoors larq sanitising water bottle
Image: Larq

A sanitising water bottle 
In an era of hyper-hygienic, pathogen-eliminating practices, the habitual sanitation of all things in one’s possession makes for a reassuring safeguard against viral infections such as the ongoing pandemic. And while in the wild, keeping an such an item as the Larq Movement Water Bottle might just be the protection you seek. Equipped with internal UV-C lights, it sanitises its interios and contents regularly, discarding the usual distasteful metallic flavours of tin water bottles. It even serves as a sanitising canister for your utensils, offering peace of mind while in the wild.
How much: HK$750

gafencu camping gadgets for outdoors portable projector
Image: Hachi

A portable smart projector for an outdoor cinema
Though the days of campfire stories may be long gone, with wireless entertainment becoming increasingly more portable, the perfect way to gather loved ones for your next outdoor staycation may be best done with an evening of Netflix and smores – an experience made possible by miniature portable projectors that eschews the need for cables and oversized screens. The Hachi Infinite M1 Projector, in particular, boasts a full Android tablet system built in for app downloads like Netflix and Hulu — replacing the need for USB and HDMI connectivity. It also features a holographic touch-screen tablet for easy navigation. Simply place it facing your tent and tap on your latest binge-worthy flick and enjoy a holographic cinema experience in the wild
How much: HK$7,761

gafencu camping gadgets for outdoors vespera telescope camera
Image: Vaonis

A compact telescope-camera
Enjoying the evening under a blanket of stars might be a highlight that most campers long to share, but if you never posted it on social media, did it even really happen? Thankfully Vaonis’ latest cutting-edge technology delivers an ultra portable telescope-camera that lets any star gazing enthusiast get a taste of being an astrophotographer. The Vespera is a two-in-one device highlighted by its advance telescoping technology  designed to deliver impressively clear images in low light, and uses a GPS system to locate and track any star, galaxy or nebulae automatically. The gadget is lightweight device that is compact enough to fit in a backpack and connects to a Smartphone via Blutooth to take pictures and share online.
How much: HK$11,646

Hidden Hikes: 6 unique locations in Hong Kong

Many are turning to exploring the city’s various natural landscapes as they yearn for adventures with family members and friends. As business starts to pick up slowly and establishments get ready to reopen, there are some things that we will miss, but which in turn may be compensated by weekends that are worth looking forward to. 

If you’re looking to keep up with your adventurous spirits during weekends, here are some of the city’s hidden hiking options that offer scenic spots and unique views for weekend get-aways from crowds.

 

 
 
 
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Po Toi Islands #hike #island #hongkong

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Po Toi Island

As if just a speck on the map of the city, is actually a hidden gem in itself, a small island with gorgeous coastal views that not many other islands in the city can offer. Along the rocky coastlines is a gorgeous abundance of quiet waters and green terrain which at the end of the trail concludes with a seafood meal at the nearby restaurants by the pier.

 

 
 
 
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比起得不到別人的愛 無法認同自己更糟糕

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Po Lo Shan (Pineapple Mountain)

Starting from within the residential estate of Leung King Estate, the path will lead you beyond fences and into a wooded area towards an uphill trail. The trail leads to what is known to locals as the “Grand Canyon” of Hong Kong.

 

 
 
 
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The secret place. . . . #intothewoods #secretplace #calming #letsgatherround #surroundedbynature #poplar #reservoir #naturelover #gooutdoors #homekong

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Shing Mun Reservoir

The paved path of this New Territories reservoir stretches through a green forest of towering trees and past a few picnic spots towards the northern point of the reservoir. There lies a stream, which during dry seasons, exposes a picturesque landscape of Chinese banyan trees along the shoreline. 

Ping Nam Stream

Nam Chung Country trail hides away many of its mini pools, but none like Ping Nam stream which the trail eventually leads you down to lower than most have gone. Unsurprisingly, this might take some effort to get to, but at the end of it lies a beautiful gorgeous infinity pool atop a short waterfall.  

Tung Ping Chau

Perhaps the easiest hike on this list is this crescent-shaped island. The trail encircles the island’s shoreline with unique rock formations. Although the youngest rocks in Hong Kong, it is also the most unique across the region, cemented with the mixture of organic particles and minerals into sedimentary rocks.

Cape D’Aguilar

One of Hong Kong’s best-kept secrets is the Hok Tsui beacon, a historic lighthouse along the coastal shores of southern Shek O, which towers over sea-blue waters. Further on from the cape, the trail continues along several photogenic rocky shorelines and caves. Above, long after the sun has set, the sky transforms into a breathtaking blanket of stars, making this spot an amazing location for stargazing.

 

 
 
 
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“Beyond the mediocrity” — This location has been one of my most favourite places to be in hong kong for its uniqueness and beauty compare to all other suburb areas in the city. From different caves to lighthouse. From waterfronts to cliff sides. All exotic spots united into the only one and the wholly one- Cape D’ Aguilar. . . . . . . . . . #stayandwander #voyaged #fatalframes #folkvibes #traveldestinations_ig #theglobalwanderer #destination_wow #earthpix #beautifuldestinations #natgeoyourshot #natgeotravel #natgeoasia #travelgram #travelphotography #travelaroundtheworld #旅遊 #conservationhk #igdaily #ig_masterpiece #theimaged #illgrammers #meistershots #shotzdelight #hongkong #awesomehongkong #hkigers #nikonhongkong #discoverhongkong #l4bhktory #urbex

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Easter Getaways: Get your fill of culture, entertainment and history

The Easter holidays – lurking barely a month away – may just offer stressed out Hongkongers with the perfect opportunity to escape the coronavirus-laden confines of the Fragrant Harbour. Be it a solo trip to explore an ancient city, dancing the night away at Coachella or relaxing with a delicious glass of port in Portugal, here are some of our top recommendations for stress-free Easter getaways.

Istanbul, Turkey

Easter Getaways
Topkapi Palace

A city bustling with a strong historical presence is just one way to describe the Turkish capital city Istanbul. From the exquisite Topkapi Palace – where you can witness the enduring legacy of the Ottoman Empire – to Byzantine highlights like Aya Sofya, Basilica Cistern, Kariye Museum and Hippodrome, these ancient monuments offer an unforgettable experience for any self-confessed history enthusiast. Beyond just its ancient allure, there are some quintessential things that cannot be missed out. For instance, ride the Bosphorus ferries – connecting from the Eminönü district to the Black Sea – to enjoy a view filled with alluring parks, mansions and palaces. Similarly, there are hammams where you can enjoy a warm and soothing Turkish bath to loosen all your muscles – isn’t relaxing one of the main purposes of a vacation. Lastly, make sure to go to Beyoglu at least once – a district known for its best dining and wining options among locals and tourists. 

Toulouse, France

Easter Getaways

Located in the Southwest of France, Toulouse – also known as La Ville Rose (The Pink City) – takes something of a backseat to the more popular Paris. With beautiful pink bricks that give it its aforementioned nickname and colourful flowers blooming around the region, it is an ideal destination for both solo and group travels. The Occitane region’s capital also boasts some of the world’s best museums, cathedrals, monuments. Place du Capitole – the city’s main square, which abuts the city hall as well as the building that houses Salle des Illustres (Hall of the Illustrious) and Vieux Quartier (Old Quarter). The town’s friendly and flat lanes make it safe and easy to skate or cycle around – an activity enjoyed by many tourists and locals. With artistic churches and cathedrals like Basilique St-Sernin, Cathédrale de St-Étienne and Église Notre Dame du Taur, it is a promising destination to celebrate Easter.

Coachella Valley, California

Easter Getaways

What better time to visit California’s Coachella Valley than for Easter, which perfectly coincides with the dates of the art and music festival Coachella. Apart from that, venture onto the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, serving a 360° aerial view of the valley from more than 8,500ft, or try your hand at hiking the Indian Canyon trails, which vary from 1.2 miles to 12.3 miles. For a show-stopping experience, there is the Marvyn’s Magic theatre – described as “world-class entertainment” – to witness some phenomenal shows. Moreover, fauna aficionados will surely love The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens for its numerous interactive experiences, including feeding a giraffe and petting a kraal.

Porto, Portugal

Easter Getaways
Douro River

Porto – an up-and-coming touristic destination that makes the final entry on our list of Easter getaways – is where you can witness the perfect fusion of classic heritage and modern architecture. Known for manufacturing port (a type of fortified wine that takes its name from the national name), lining the banks of the Douro River are countless city’s cellars where you can get a first-hand tasting of this famous beverage. If you’re looking to explore the location’s ancient ruins, Ribeira district – a UNESCO World Heritage site – is well worth a detour, while Oporto’s Casa da Musica’s peculiar geometric construction and the 5D theatre – Look at Porto – let you view and experience Porto in a more contemporary light. Literature buffs, meanwhile, should head to Livraria Lello, a delightful bookshop famed as much for its neo-gothic and magic-inducing aura as its books. Moreover, don’t forget to grab a Francesinha – Porto’s emblematic sandwich.

‘Daring Reasons to Travel’: Blueflower hosts intimate talks with avid explorers

Paul Niel has hiked the Seven Summits – the highest peaks on every continent. Michael Pittman, a paleontologist, has searched for dinosaur bones in the harsh Gobi Desert. Amy Yu has visited some of the world’s most volatile countries, like Iraq and Syria.

So what’s the common thread connecting these three disparate personalities? Well, all three live in Hong Kong, they all love adventure and they all shared their captivating stories at Blueflower’s recent ‘Daring Reasons to Travel’ seminar.

Held at Blueflower’s trendy ‘Travel Salon’ in Wong Chuk Hang, the ongoing seminars are intended to stimulate intelligent conversation and offer tips on how to traverse the planet as a traveller rather than a tourist. Guests can browse the salon’s extensive collection of artworks and books from around the world, followed by a four-course meal prepared by Blueflower’s founder, Andrea Oschetti, who also happens to be a chef.

While Blueflower is technically registered as a travel agency, Oschetti said the label doesn’t quite fit. Blueflower offers bespoke trips tailored to the individual client, with the aim of creating intimate experiences that allow the traveller to explore a destination in a deeper and more fulfilling way. In other words, trips that “aren’t just about the bucket list or about following what the guide says”, Oschetti explains.

“I see myself as a mentor, someone that sits next to my clients and I help them to pursue their dreams,” Oschetti says.

Amy Yu, an American who has lived in Hong Kong for about eight years, has a keen interest in geopolitics, which has spurred her to travel to places that few dare to visit, either because of real dangers (in the case of Iraq) or imagined ones (in the case of misconceptions about Sudan). During a recent trip to Iraq, she met with a family from the Yazidi minority, an ethnic Kurdish group whose members are heavily persecuted. The family abandoned their home in Sinjar to come to Lalish, and by doing so escaped a perilous fate. Sinjar was attacked by ISIS in 2014, and thousands of Yazidis were killed or enslaved.

“To meet these people, and meet Yazidi women, it humbles you to know that you’re talking to people (that lived it),” Yu says.

“This is not just a story in the news. This is why I travel. You meet people and all of these things become real.”

Although adventure was the theme of the evening, Oschetti says Blueflower’s services are not just for mountain climbers and deep-sea divers.

“The company helps you to achieve these difficult-to-do dreams, but not necessarily just those,” he says. “I think that a daring trip to do, for example, is to go to Italy and try to explore the culture through its food and understand Italy through its food by changing the way visitors experience food.

“So, for example, being able to turn the tables and instead of being hosted in a restaurant, to be the host yourself – and to host the best producers of a region; to have picnics in the place where Saint Francis used to walk; to go in a real house of someone who is not a local who hosts tourists day in and day out, but has actually just opened for the first time to a visitor, so you experience true hospitality.”

Oschetti was referring to Blueflower’s food-focused trip to Central Italy where guests can invite the most interesting local producers to dine with them in a private villa.

‘Daring Reasons to Travel’ was the second seminar hosted by Blueflower, and the agency plans to host more in the future.

Blueflower’s upcoming seminars:

‘South American Food Battle’

Thursday, 23 March, 7pm
Discover South American cuisine with Hong Kong’s leading chefs in a battle for the best dish

‘Trips That Make An Impact: Conservation and Wildlife’
Wednesday, 5 April, 7pm
Hear from a safari specialist and learn about conservation efforts in Africa

For more information, visit www.blueflower.la/

Text: Emily Petsko