Writing Millions: 5 most expensive pens in the world

The items we have on our list below are not your usual biro’s used to jot down the to-do list or pencil in casual journal entries. These writing instruments are pure works of art – as precise as a watch, as precious as diamonds – we’re talking about luxury pens worth millions of dollars! Got the money to burn? Then take a look at the most expensive and exclusive luxury pens in the world…

Montblanc High Artistry A Tribute to the Great Wall Limited Edition

Price: US$1,978,500

With every High Artistry edition, Montblanc augments the boundaries of technical and artistic excellence to come up with a world class writing instrument.

The latest 2021 High Artistry Tribute to the Great Wall of China is a monumental ode to the mastery of the Maison’s craft and the richness of the Chinese culture. Inspired by the Ming dynasty artwork, the 18 carat gold cap and barrel has the vision of a large twisted dragon in a massive landscape, sitting amidst a sea of diamonds, rubies, sapphires and tourmaline. Priced at nearly US$2 million, this is every collector’s dream writing instrument!

Aurora Diamante

Price: US$1,470,000

Two famous Italian fountain pen giants, Visconti from Florence and Aurora from Turin, reign the market in the ultra-luxury pen segment. However, Aurora’s artisanal pens, founded in 1919, are definitely more enticing for collectors. Quite like Montblanc’s 146 and 149, Aurora 88 is the brand’s flagship range – these are stunning pens but not as exclusive or extraordinary as the limited edition, The Diamante. Literally a dream in diamonds, a masterpiece of jewellery craftsmanship, Aurora makes only one copy a year.

Dripping in 30 carats certified De Beers diamonds, with a solid gold nib which can be personalized, the pen is available in two versions: in platinum and white diamonds, and in blackened gold and black diamonds. Priced at a whopping US$1.4 million, this is one of the most precious writing instruments in the world, to see and to behold.

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Heaven Gold Pen
Price: US$1,000,000

With a design inspiration from the Cosmos, this million dollar pen is for ladies only! Designed by Anita Tan, this diamond-studded, gold-plated, rhodium-coated bling delight is one of the most highly coveted ladies’ pen. Sparkling with 61 brilliant cut diamonds, and 43 carats of the 2 billion year-old rare Tsavorite gemstone, this one is for the high-brow literati with a matching capacity to write masterpieces.

Caran D’Ache 1010 Diamonds Limited Edition Fountain Pen
Price: US$1,000,000

This is supposed to be one of the most spectacular writing tools out there – provided you have the moolah to burn! So put aside your yachting magazine and invest in a million dollar pen. Because why not! Built in white gold, set with 850 high-grade sparkling diamonds, this limited edition million dollar pen is certainly a sight to behold.

Caran D’Ache Gothica Pen
Price: US$406,453

On the fifth spot, we have the Caran d’Ache Gothica pen, at a little less than half a million US dollars. Named after the Russian word for pencil, the Switzerland-based company first unveiled it in 2015 in China. Encrusted in rubies, emeralds, more than 900 diamonds, the design is a tribute to the Gothic elements such as fleurs-de-lis and rosettes.

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Giovanni Pina: Newest Italian restaurant in Central

Following the successes of his K11 Musea and Nina Mall outlets, renowned Italian pastry chef Giovanni Pina has pulled back the curtain of a new, eponymous flagship bakery-cum-restaurant in Central. The latest, and swankiest, Giovanni Pina will allow the city’s eager epicureans to sample both sweet and savoury Italian flavours in a modern setting.

Pina is not only a 40-year veteran baker with countless international accolades to his name, he’s also the third generation of a century-old lineage; his grandfather first opened a small pastry shop in the northern Italian town of Trescore Balneario in, yes, 1920. The grandson’s latest offering features interiors inspired by aristocratic European castles of old. Featuring wooden accents, plush purple upholstery and a massive chandelier, the 40-seat eatery affords patrons direct views of the open kitchen. This is where the culinary magic happens, where the chef’s now-famous traditional-meets-contemporary style is on full display.

Eager to savour the results of this fusion of old-meets-new experimentation, our own tasting began with a classic Italian appetiser – Burrata and Seasonal Tomato Salad with Basil infused Balsamic Vinegar Dressing. The inherent creaminess of the fresh buffalo cheese is enhanced by the tartness of the accompanying tri-coloured baby tomatoes, while the house-pickled black garlic imparts a delicious hint of umami to the proceedings. Refreshing yet decadent, it is elevated further by the basil-infused balsamic vinaigrette, which imparts a welcome earthiness.

Next to arrive was Handmade Pappardelle with Porcini Ragu with Pan-fried Kagoshima A4 Wagyu Sirloin. Fronted by melt-in-your-mouth slivers of Kagoshima A4 Wagyu and perfectly al dente home-made pappardelle pasta, the star ingredient here is undoubtedly the porcini ragù. This sauce is truly a labour of love, requiring porcini mushrooms to be soaked overnight before being simmered with three additional types of Japanese mushrooms and short ribs for over four hours. Thick and brimming with flavour, it bequeaths a delicious richness to the Tuscan-style pasta while also tempering the fattiness of the meat.

We then sampled another signature dish of the restaurant – Pan-fried Jumbo Scallops & Asparagus Risotto. A deft display of Chef Pina’s ability to create a dish far greater than the sum of its parts, the risotto is creamy without being overwhelming, thanks to interspersed slivers of asparagus. Topping the all-white affair are two generously sized scallops, which are further garnished with heaped helpings of black caviar. It’s an indulgent and decadent affair, but with a measure of subtlety that allows its oceanic accents to shine through on the palate.

Scarcely had we finished our risotto when a platter of Black Truffle Scrocchiarella hovered into view. Once tableside, the maître d’ garnished the dish with shavings of fresh black truffle. For the uninitiated, scrocchiarella – the crunchy one in Italian – is the Roman take on pizza dough and delivers an authentic thin-crust style of pizza. In this instance, the bread base was light, airy and chewy, while the aromatic truffle and rich cheese combination raised it to the level of pure satisfaction. This, unsurprisingly, is comfort food at its finest.

Given Chef Pina’s legendary reputation as a pâtissier, no trip to the restaurant would be complete without sampling some of his sweeter bakes, so it was no surprise that the final course of our expansive tasting menu came in the form of a dozen Pasticcini Mignon, or mini pastries. As beautiful as they were delicious, it was an endless selection to choose from, but no chore to identify our favourites. We settled very happily indeed on the pistachio cream, pine nut and almond tarts, which were fresh and flavourful with just a hint of sweetness.

Giovanni Pina. G/F, Two Chinachem Plaza, 135 Des Voeux Rd, Central. (852) 2811 9888.
(Photos: Giovani Pina 1920)

Vicuna Wool: The world’s most expensive fabric

With the onset of cooler winter weather, what is the most luxurious, warmest fabric that you can buy? No, it’s not some exotic fur, or cashmere, or even pashmina. It’s another, rarer wool – vicuna, or vicuña in Spanish – courtesy of a South American camelid. A sleeker, more graceful relative of the llama and the alpaca, the vicuna inhabits the high alpine areas of the Andes mountains in Peru. It grows a very fine wool coat that is not just soft and light, but also exceptionally warm in order to ward off the often-freezing Andean climate.

Harvesting vicuna wool has been a prized trade in Peru for centuries, and its bearer holds a special place in local culture. The vicuna is the national animal, gracing the Peruvian flag, coat of arms and coins. Proving hard to harvest for a multitude of reasons, the raw wool sells for upwards of US$300 per kilogram. Once spun into yarn and crafted into sumptuous coats and suits, prices soar to tens of thousands of dollars.

But just what makes it so costly, and why have the well-heeled clamoured to acquire this coveted fleece through the ages? We delve into some lesser-known facts about the world’s most expensive fabric.

“Wearing garments woven from [vicuna] wool was the equivalent of being swathed in gold, and the privilege was reserved solely for royalty”

Prized by the Incas
During the rule of the Incas – a civilisation that thrived from the early 13th century and rose to form an empire (1438-1533 AD) across western South America – vicunas were considered holy creatures, so much so that it was forbidden to kill them. Wearing garments woven from their wool was the equivalent of being swathed in gold, and the privilege was reserved solely for royalty. At the height of the Inca Empire, it’s thought that some two million vicunas roamed across the Altiplano, which stretches from Peru into Bolivia and all the way down to northern Argentina. Sadly, however, this was not to last…

Hunted by Conquistadors
When the Spanish conquistadors invaded Peru in 1532, they too discovered the camelid’s precious fleece. Dubbing it the “silk of the new world”, they set out to procure the material by force, hunting and killing vicunas for their wool, rather than simply shearing and releasing them as the Incans did. This slaughter continued for centuries, and by the mid 1900s, the population had dwindled to less than 10,000.

Endangered Species
Desperate to counter this drastic situation, in 1967 the Peruvian government created the country’s first vicuna sanctuary – a sprawling 16,000-acre expanse named the Pampa Galeras National Reserve. This was swiftly followed by a complete ban on the vicuna wool trade. Then, in 1975, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), a multilateral treaty protecting endangered wildlife and flora, placed the animal on its ‘most endangered’ list, simultaneously implementing its own moratorium on the international trade of vicuna.

Community Action
Despite these stringent measures, persistent poachers and a thriving black market saw the vicuna population continue to fall. Finally, the government decided to make rural villagers the custodians of any vicunas grazing in their area and granting them exclusive rights to shear and sell their wool. This would allow sustainable income to be generated by poor rural communities, which in turn would create incentives for them to protect the herd and ward off poachers. These measures turned the tide, and today the number of wild vicunas is some 200,000 strong.

Staying Warm
With the lifting of the CITES ban in 1994, a new generation of shoppers discovered one of the softest, warmest materials in the world. The secret of the vicuna’s ability to retain heat are the tiny, interlocking scales that line its fibres, trapping air within and providing insulation. Vicuna is also one of the finest natural fibres in the world, pipped only barely by shahtoosh, a Tibetan antelope hailed as the ‘king of fine wools’.

In the textile industry, the finer the fibre, the higher it is priced. A vicuna hair measures just 12 microns in diameter. By comparison, the best quality cashmere has a diameter of 14-15 microns. The thinness of the fibres contributes to its roughly 10-percent lighter weight. Due to its sensitivity to chemical dyeing treatments, in most instances, it comes in its natural hues of light beige or pale white.

“The Andean camelid’s pretty, gossamer coat can take three years to grow back after being sheared, and a single vicuna only produces about half a kilogram of wool per year”

Slow Harvest
The slow rate of harvesting vicuna wool also accounts for the exorbitant price of that super-soft scarf or covetable jacket. In some cases, the Andean camelid’s pretty, gossamer coat can take three years to grow back after being sheared, and a single vicuna only produces about 0.5kg of wool per year. Today, the wool is gathered in much the same manner as it was during the Inca Empire. Called the Chacu method, this semi-religious ceremony sees shearers form a communal human chain to round up and shear the animals and then letting them roam free once more.

Supply & Demand
While these remote communities do trade in vicuna wool, by far the world’s largest supplier is Italian luxury fashion house Loro Piana, which began investing in vicuna reserves and preservation initiatives in Peru in the ’80s. By 1994, the government had officially selected the brand as its exclusive partner in the harvesting, processing and treating of vicuna wool, both as a raw material and finished product. Loro Piana’s own vicuna reserve is said to yield between 13,000 and 17,500 pounds of the golden fleece annually. While this amount pales in comparison to the colossal 22 million pounds of cashmere it produces a year – likewise the world’s number one – it translates into a handsome sum considering vicua’s peak market price.

That’s not to say Loro Piana has a monopoly, however; other brands are known for fashioning deluxe garments from this rare yarn. Ermenegildo Zegna, Brioni and Holland & Sherry, for instance, source their vicuna independently. The pieces are blissfully soft, and the prices eye-watering. German legwear specialist Falke offers a US$620 pair of vicuna socks, while made-to-measure suits by elite Italian tailor Kiton start at US$40,000. For the warmest of winters, there is no finer choice than vicuna – if you can afford it.

Retail Revolution: What the future of ultra luxury looks like…

First came the seamstress with her evolved needlework and skilled tailoring, then the local shops offering bespoke styles, and international catalogues allowing you to order whatever you fancied. The ’80s were marked by home-shopping channels, high-end designer stores for your haute couture and a fast-fashion fixation. Shiny malls and all-under-one-roof mega stores soon seamlessly blended into our urban fabric. Then e-commerce was born and it blew the doors off our beloved boutiques.

Twenty years ago, Net-a-Porter’s business model to sell designer fashions on the internet was considered dubious. Surely high-fashion shopping couldn’t, in actuality, be acquired sight unseen and look untried? It was one thing to add a bevvy of Christmas gifts to the Amazon cart, another to buy a spanking new Hèrmes bag from a website.

Contact-less, frictionless, ceaseless shopping has been every big business’ dream, and whilst we aren’t there yet, 2020 served to upend our established shopping habits and shove us one step closer to online consumerism. While it might take more than a global upheaval to push brick-and-mortar retailers entirely to the digital marketplace model, the epic tussle between in-person stores and e-commerce platforms continues.

Also Read: Trendiest men’s coats for the season

E-Commerce Embargo
According to management consultancy Bain & Company, the e-commerce luxury shopping industry is at the threshold of a paradigm shift. It clocked in a whopping US$58 billion in 2020; compare that to US$39 billion sales in 2019 and you can judge for yourself the gravitation towards digital. Another top consulting firm, McKinsey, found that people who rarely shopped online before 2020 now make 80 percent of their fashion buys off the internet. That figure might see a dip once the pandemic is over and people want to feel luxury in the flesh once more, but for now, consumers have migrated to e-commerce at an astonishing rate.

Bain & Company predicts that by 2025, some 25 percent of all high-end purchases will happen digitally, and global revenues are expected to surpass an estimated US$136 billion. Yet, fashion houses like Dior and Céline, were slow to lift their e-commerce embargos in the fear of appearing too massy or less classy.
At a basic level, luxury is defined by exclusivity and rarity – take away the element of scarcity and even diamonds lose their demand. The lengthy waiting list for the Hermès Birkin made it the most sought-after designer bag in the world. In January this year, Bottega Venetta caused a massive marketing disruption after vanishing from the social-media universe. During the pandemic, when brands were increasing their digital footprint for wider reach, falling off the Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Weibo grid was an unprecedented move, yet it reaped gains – both in the number of fan accounts and sales – for the luxury house.

“Some of the top names of the couture world were slow to lift their e-commerce embargos in the fear of appearing too massy or less classy”

Online VS Offline
Chanel follows a similar exclusivity strategy. Even a global health crisis could not push the brand digital. You may add Chanel’s fragrances, skincare and cosmetics to cart, but haute couture, fine jewellery and watches can only be bought in boutiques. Their business model is unlikely to change. Chief Financial Officer Philippe Blondiaux has stated categorically, “We don’t intend, crisis or no crisis, to sell fashion, watches and fine jewellery online.” The concept that a multibillion-dollar brand can exist in 2021 without online retail is both bold and titillatingly perverse.
Most customers today start their journey online, and since 40 percent of fashion is being bought off the web, Hong Kong’s premier resource to buy pre-owned luxury timepieces Watchfinder & Co. says, “companies had to reassess their business models and strategies to survive, or even thrive. At the peak of the pandemic, e-commerce was not a luxury, it became a priority.”

Oscar de la Renta, the first brand to embrace Amazon’s Luxury Stores, explains that the foremost challenge for a high-end brand to sell online is returns. Even though AR technology and 360-degree views allow customers to try on garments virtually from their phones, without interpersonal interaction and the physical donning of an outfit, it’s hard to imagine the fall, drape or fit on one’s body and complexion.

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CEO Alex Bolen is working to find a solution to their 30-percent online return rate. When “a bad day” in Oscar de la Renta’s brick-and-mortar stores realises only a low single-digit return rate, the implication on costs is huge. To redress high returns, a company would need to introduce more inclusive fitting sizes – a slippery slope to mass-market? – and stock a bigger inventory, another red light for the luxury brands.

By refusing to sell online, Chanel has made its position aptly clear: it is not a part of the pack competing for eyeballs on the World Wide Web. Instead, its products are valued for their individuality, rarity and an element of mystery, a concept the consumer can invest in – with some degree of effort on their part.

But fashion must follow the customer or die. Before the hard knock of the pandemic, the world’s biggest luxury conglomerate, LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, made an exclusive arrangement for Dior and Céline to build an online presence through its multi-brand platform 24 Sèvres, which launched in 2017. However, the digital venture – rebranded as 24S – was still losing money last year. Controlling the destiny of 75 brands – including Givenchy, Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney, Loro Piana, Kenzo and Bulgari – LVMH is the authority on how to start, acquire and run successful businesses, but standing out in the oversaturated, fragmented digital world is tricky when the competition is from stalwarts like Net-a-Porter and Farfetch, who have perfected their online models over the past two decades.

“Products are valued for their individuality, rarity and an element of mystery, a concept the consumer can invest in – with some degree of effort on their part”

Relevance is the New Legacy

Does the recent accelerated growth in luxury e-commerce sales, which has almost tipped into double digits, imply the future of shopping is exclusively online? Jean Jacques Guiony, Chief Financial Officer of LVMH, begs to differ. He believes “the five senses” experience of sampling merchandise has always been at the heart of brick-and-mortar stores and it cannot be matched online.

Platinum Guild International, a global organisation created in 1975 to promote the platinum jewellery market, echoes similar sentiments: “Rarity, exclusivity and engagement are the core values luxury goods hold. Many brands are expanding their customer base online but still keep some exclusivity by providing a premium, privileged shopping experience that consumers can only receive in stores.” In fact, its third-quarter analysis of the Indian, Japanese, US and Chinese markets reveal that when it comes to precious jewellery, “consumers want to feel, hold and try on the products before buying. Perhaps, at a certain price point, ‘online-only’ is not enough.”

They are surely right. It has been postulated that once the retail apocalypse is behind us, online and offline channels will merge. Customers will expect high-quality, personal experiences both in stores as well as digitally, a trend already being witnessed at Watchfinder & Co., which says: “Having started purely e-commerce, we simultaneously grew to have physical store presence all over the world. Both are essential to the luxury industry.”

The rarefied atmosphere of a high-end boutique will not only remain relevant in the modern age, but flourish anew as nostalgic big spenders rediscover that real touch of luxury.

Also Read: Top things to see and do in Hong Kong this November

(Text: Nikita Mishra)

Winter Skincare: Avoid dry, flaky skin this season

The nip in the air is a welcome relief but the dryness it brings along is notoriously tough for skin.
Hello, dry, itchy, flaky skin!

Switching to a good moisturizer at the first sign of chill is the right thing to do, but the dry indoor air might have already taken a harsh toll on your complexion. If you don’t want tired-looking skin to stay for the long haul, escalate your daily routine to ensure radiant, dewy skin all through the season. Scroll below for the best tips to minimize flare-ups, supercharge your skin and stay glowing in the coat season.

1. Go fragrance free, keep cleansing gentle

Fragrance in beauty products might feel zen to the senses but it is one of the most common causes for sensitivity, irritation and redness. In colder weather, a simple rule of thumb is – drier the air, drier the skin. Besides running a humidifier in the rooms where you spend maximum time, it is especially important to switch to a mild cleanser. When investing in one be sure to read the list of ingredients closely – opt for something which is clean, and sulphate/fragrance-free. Lookout for a product with as few ingredients as possible – the lesser the ingredients, the cleaner, gentler it will be for the skin.

The beauty space is crowded with famous faces but Hong Kong-based beauty company, Skin Need which believes in empowering ones natural beauty and embracing ones flaws, clearly stands out with its impressive range of natural products. It’s foam-based Light cleanser is paraben and sulphate-free, equipped with active rosehip oil, aloe vera and kumquat extracts among others. It’s perfectly mild to dissolve away the dirt while moisturizing the skin. Charlotte Tilbury’s award-winning, deeply hydrating, two-step Goddess Cleansing Ritual formula with vitamin B, C, charcoal, citrus oil among other supercharging elements is another innovative option for spa-like youthful, taut skin.
Available online as well as all Hong Kong Sephora outlets.

Also Read: Blow up, Glow up: Your ultimate hair treatment guide to a frizz-free life!

2. Use Hydrating Toners and Essences

Your winter routine cannot involve the harsh astringent formulas which zap the skin of natural moisture – lightweight, hydrating, treating toners and essences which leave a soft glow are all rage these days. In fact, toning is the most important step of post-cleanse skincare routine. It helps balance the pH level in your skin and get rid of any impurities after the cleanse. It’s really the first layer of hydration and prepares your skin for locking the moisture in. Korean women (and their flawless beauty) swear by essences for its cell-turnover, hydration and anti-ageing benefits.

Skincare is tricky, but locally founded, Japanese-made, cruelty-free brand Botanic Pretti5 is taking the extra effort in simplifying it. Channeling the power of Chinese medicine with cutting-edge Western technology, their Antioxidant Hydrating Toning Essence, winner of several beauty awards, with its pore-refining prowess, vitamin B5, TCM ingredients, in-tandem with aloe vera – is a one step formula for delivering intense hydration to the deepest levels of the skin. Guaranteed baby-soft feels with regular use. Available at Sephora outlets and directly from the company website.

3. Nail your moisturizing regime

In winters it’s all about hydration, hydration and more hydration. Healthy and fresh-looking skin should be your goal throughout the year and can be achieved with all round consistency, but once the temperature dips, remember to bundle up on a slightly heavier lotion or a serum.

The Miracle Glow Facial oil by Botanic Pretti5 is a hydrating elixir – made with 100% Jojoba oil, squalene derivatives from olives, the oil is compatible with most types of skin, and even the most sensitive of the lot will benefit from its use. Cubed Daily Lotion is another lightweight formula that is especially formulated for Asian skin problems and instantly helps soothe dry, itchy, acne-prone skin. Regular use will help tone your skin and help gain radiance and if you’re feeling extra luxe then splurge on Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream moisturizer – the refillable jar has been a proven weapon for more than two decades for spa-like skin by countless celebrities and in runways across the world. Dab it and almost instantly your skin feels plump, hydrated, taut – the Bio-Nymph Peptide Complex works to enhance the youthfulness, elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles on your face. Loaded with SPF15, sun exposure worries can be laid to rest.

4. Dial down the exfoliation

No matter how many creams, serums or oils you lather up, dry skin will remain dry without a light scrub. It’s a myth that buffing your skin in winters will further enhance the flakiness, but remember to take it easy on the exfoliation. Don’t overdo it, once or twice a week is enough, keep it gentle – remember less is more, Drunk Elephant’s Sugared Koffie Almond Milk Body Scrub is a classic product to swear by. It can be used on all skin types from the age group of 20 to 50 years and almost everyone will feel a soft, nourished touch after exfoliating the dry bits – it does not break down the skin’s natural barrier and keeps it soft, plump, flake-free and balanced. Available online as well as all Hong Kong Sephora outlets.

Also Read: Exfoliation 101 for healthy glowing skin

5. Vitamin D supplementation is a must

Synthesis of vitamin D is critical not just for bone health but also optimum skin health. Research has shown that maintaining optimum levels of vitamin D helps counter the effects of ageing. But during winters, sun exposure is reduced and sunlight does not contain enough UVB radiation for our skin to make enough of the important vitamin – a lack of it is detrimental for your overall health and the skin will definitely feel the brunt – itchy, flaky, tight and prone to psoriasis and eczema.

HSBC builds a sustainable legacy across generations

Even in the best of times, succession planning can be a major challenge. Having worked hard to generate meaningful wealth, business leaders and wealth creators then have to navigate the nuances and real-world implications of transferring that success to the next generation. And now, amid the world’s ever-changing geopolitical structure and an ongoing global pandemic, it’s more critical than ever for Asia’s affluent to create firm family governance structures that not only protect and grow your portfolio, but allow successive members to contribute in creating a lasting, sustainable legacy.

Daunting though this may seem, achieving a smooth family succession plan can be made all the easier with an experienced wealth partner like HSBC Global Private Banking. With decades of experience as one of the region’s preeminent private banking specialists, its expertise and wealth management services have helped countless well-to-do clients traverse the often ambiguous and complex challenges of wealth transference and future planning. Leading the charge is Cynthia Lee, the Regional Head of Wealth Planning and Advisory, Asia, Global Private Banking at HSBC, who highlights some of the trials and best practices of setting up your family for future success…

Setting up a proper family governance structure
There are often many disparate parts and unique circumstances that need to be taken into consideration when planning and implementing a firm strategy for family succession and wealth transfer. However, the first step is to actually embark on the journey itself. “I’ve been in this business for more than 27 years now, and it’s our day-to-day job. But I can totally understand that for our clients, it can be overwhelming and daunting because they’re being asked to lay out what should happen when they are no longer around, what should happen to their business, their grandchildren and so forth,” says Lee. “One of our biggest responsibilities is to ensure we’re able to break this out into actionable, digestible parts. Every family is unique, and we can help them prioritise by putting forth feasible, pragmatic solutions and highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each, so they can make the right decision.”

As family dynamics can change over time, constant review and revision of any existing plans are also hugely important. “In many cases, my clients have made plans in the past, but when we revisit them years later, they no longer hold up to the family’s needs and circumstances today,” she expands, “It’s worth checking back in with the plan you’ve made every three to five years to see if anything needs to be amended or included. You need to treat it as a live document, as planning is a life-long process.

Making decisions the right way
It’s no secret that without a proper succession planning, many affluent families lose their wealth within a few generations. To combat this challenge on the outset, Lee emphasises that open communication and a collective decision-making process is key. “Often, we are dealing with the wealth creator, the person who’s head of the family and in charge of making all the big decisions, and this case, setting up a structure is relatively straightforward,” she explains, “However, if you include the next generation, there are even more voices, and by the third, you could be dealing with a cousin consortium where family members actually come from different upbringings and backgrounds. That’s why it’s so critical to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of these individuals, to segregate various family interests, and highlight who are the best candidates occupy certain decision-making positions.”

“Given human nature, it’s only natural that there are situations where opinions vary. In these instances, implementing a collective decision-making process where everyone is aware of the rules of the game and how decisions ultimately get made is critical,” she continues, “There’s a lot of compromising that needs to happen, but they can test the system over time on small choices to larger ones. It can be anything from matters pertaining to business investments, charitable donations, or the inclusion of spouses to various forums the family may have. As long as there’s an accepted system in place and communication is facilitated, everyone can get their proper say.”

Building a sustainable legacy
“In addition to just growing and preserving family wealth, and creating a succession plan, clients also want to invest and deploy resources towards the environment and other sustainability initiatives,” says Lee. This marked shift from simply cutting cheques for sundry charitable causes to fostering very real, meaningful impact is a timely one, particularly in an age where the effects of global warming are being increasingly felt across the globe.

“Philanthropic advising is a targeted area of our holistic wealth planning services,” she adds, explaining that through HSBC Global Private Banking’s expansive expertise, affluent families can harness the power of wealth to drive long-term positive change. Be it through investing in environmental research, advancing clean energy initiatives or combatting social challenges, philanthropy has become an essential tool to help create a sustainable future not only for client’s families and businesses, but also for the wider world, and the future generations that will inherit it.

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New releases of luxury motor yachts in 2021

A bevy of magnificent yachts have been built in 2021. With travel still restricted, ocean lovers can rejoice because the trend of yachtcation is on a steady rise. Whether to sail afar or just get away from the hustle of the city, the latest motor yachts released this year offer a deluxe feel of what living on the ocean feels like. From fully customisable interiors to stunning panoramic views, seamless and innovatively designed beach clubs that keep you as close to the open water as possible. Whether you are looking to charter a yacht for the holiday season or purchase one for a long overdue expedition off shore, here is our list of impressive new releases of luxury motor yachts in 2021.

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Sanlorenzo SL78
Breaking the mould of what traditional yachtmaking is, renowned Italian bespoke yachtmaker Sanlorenzo continues to redefine ocean going experience with their innovative SX and Asymmetric Ranges in Yacht Division. Although the Sanlorenzo SL78 was first sold in Asia in 2016 by Simpson Marine, their charter agency Simpson Yacht Charter has announced the expansion of its charter fleet in Hong Kong with the stunning SL78, a 25-meter entry-level model in Sanlorenzo’s successful SL range with the recently arrived into Hong Kong SL78.

Featuring its hallmark fibreglass planing-hull and distinctive signature styling as well as innovative solutions to the brand’s historically elegant and classical design. Its large windows on the main deck give way for ample natural light to spill into the saloon, visually expanding the space. The main deck is fitted with a galley and an interior floating staircase that leads up to the flybridge where guests can enjoy the comfort and flexibility of movement while entertaining and socialising. Its hardtop is smartly operated to provide complete shade if its guests so chooses.

On the bow, a large shaded lounge provides guests an area to retreat and rest as they take in the stunning oceanic views. To provided a retreat at the end of the day, the vessel holds a master suite, a VIP cabin and two twin cabins to provide guests with the utmost comfort and privacy aboard. The SL78 is now available for charter in Hong Kong at Simpson Yacht Charter.

For more information click here.

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Prestige X70
Raising the bar for luxury motor yachts, and combining innovation and savoir fair, is French luxury yachtmaker Prestige Yachts. The shipyard has reinvented movement onboard with a radically different design for its flagship model X70 — the first in its new X line. Prized with Best Layout at the prestigious 2020 World Yacht Trophies award ceremony in Cannes, the model stands out from other yachts, especially with its most recognisable change in design — its exterior lines — eschewing the traditional side decks in place of much wider and larger living space for entertainment, socialising and comfort, thanks to the brand’s collaboration with Italian designer Garroni Design studio.

Stretching 72-feet, the yacht’s main-deck areas comprise a front helm station, central galley, and a unique and impressive extra-large cockpit lounge and aft beach club that seamlessly connect to one another. Meanwhile the foredeck links directly to the flybridge by a pair of twin staircases that first steps onto the sundeck, then underneath an electric sunroof that allows passengers full control of the hardtop to shelter them from the sun and rain.

The saloon, which stretches the entire length of the hull, offers a refreshingly contemporary impression. First drawing attention to the natural light that floods the space through its large windows, enhancing of space within and highlighting the sumptuous wood finishes and luxurious fabrics that dress the interior, such as cashmere and Foglizzo leather. Its entertainment system comes complete with a drop-down television, made-to-measure sofas and a state-of-the-art audio system by French luxury furniture maker Canapés Duvivier and UK-based sound expert Bowers & Wilkins.

These luxurious features continue below deck offering passengers a relaxing reprieve from the day’s activities. Laid out with a full-width owner’s suite and up to three guest cabins, as well as crew areas, each with a separate entrance, and a slew of luxurious amenities on offer — comfortably accommodating up to eight people.

For more information click here.

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MCY 76 Skylounge
Italian yachtmaker Monte Carlo Yachts presents a larger-than-life sloop that comes with unique customisation opportunities, including custom layout configurations such as locating the galley either at the aft or bow, and a larger, sleeker and more spacious design, inspired by the shipyard’s larger MYC designs. The yacht in question is none other than the MCY 76 Skylounge, one of three new yachts that marks the new generation evolution of its timeless elegance.

First looking at the main deck, sleek lines seamlessly bring the connection of the sea closer on board with wide windows and enlarged iconic portholes that provide ample natural light to spread throughout the yacht, a signature of international design studio Nuvolari Lenard. Fully furnished with armchairs, sofas, Carrara marble table, as well as a fully-equipped galley, one highlight that brings together this impressive vessel is the extensive option of premium customisation for furnishing, fixtures and finishes to suit owner’s ideal preference and comfort, such as Pierre Frey and Hermes fabrics and wood, Rubelli textures, white grey picked oak woods and three-dimensional décor elements like lacquered reflective details on the roof of the outdoor deck — the list goes on.

Another significant design detail is that of the enclosed flybridge — a spacious lounge area that invites natural light to spill in, and an open air galley furnished with a comfortable sofa adjustable by multiple seating arrangements and supported by a lateral T-Top in carbon fiber railing and breathtaking 360-degree views of the ocean. Keeping close to the sea but safely protected from other elements, this area serves the perfect space for entertainment with friends or the family at any time.

For more information click here.

Also Read: Fleet Parade: Prestige Yachts range makes stunning Hong Kong debut

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Fairline Squadron 53
A marriage between style and functionality comes in the form of Award-winning UK-based yachtmakers Fairline Yachts’ Squadron 53. Combining soft curves, the graceful arch of its swept flybridge and elegant styling reflected in every design detail of its structure, courtesy of Italian yacht designer Alberto Mancini, this 57-feet vessel boasts comfort, power and style, making for an ideal cruiser for short trips or long-haul vacations.

Starting at the outdoor living space, the large flybridge offers ample seating arrangements which makes for a relaxing social retreat with sweeping 360-degree views in the backdrop. Below, the main foredeck boasts a large cockpit that is a cleverly designed seating area with a three-person sunpad, then leading down to the transom where guests can relax in a more private space, resting on the couch, or diving off the swimming platform into crystal clear waters.

The interiors, on the other hand, boasts ample space for comfort and flexibility to move freely throughout the vessel. Its saloon, for example, featuring stunning woodwork and marble inlays, offers owners customisable layouts of multiple galley arrangements and three or four cabin options, accommodating up to nine guests in a double guest cabin, which converts to a twin, and twin cabin to port; and an optional fourth bunk cabin. But the chamber that showcases the yachtmaker’s iconic DNA design is its large full height master suite which invites the outside in through large panoramic windows.

For more information click here.

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Azimut 68
A standout among other yachts in the nautical market, Italian yachtmaker Azimut Yachts offers its customers the opportunity to live authentically — just the way they prefer — on board of the Azimut 68. Venturing out into open sea in the new 68-feet flybridge. This high-tech and elegantly beautiful sloop underscores a streamlined design that spills into its interiors, creating a versatile multi-functional living space for passengers.

With sumptuous ribbed wood and plexiglass fittings, as well as three different Main Deck layouts that allow for a more convivial, versatile or minimal living area at the discretion of its owner — welcoming in unrestricted natural light that spreads across the saloon.

The first layout, allows for the galley to be tucked away behind an innovative surface of ribbed wood and plexiglass to create a more coherent flow of natural light. The open galley alternative that is set at the bow, on the other hand, opens directly into the dining area which can be doubled as a second lounge. Meanwhile, the third layout offers a more convivial layout, with the galley located at the aft. This allows for the outdoor dining area to face immediately across the galley, while the cook remains connected to the social area — seamlessly bringing together a more relaxed, less formal flow of movement from living area to the rest of the boat.

Clean lines, sleek modelling and elegant interiors by Italian designer and architect Achille Salvagni presents passengers with effortless grace and that provide an elevate sense of wellbeing onboard. Below deck, four cabins and three bathrooms comfortably accommodate up to eight guests, with a separate area for one to two crew members. Powered by twin IPS 1350 pods that briskly sail to a maximum speed of 32knph, this vessel suits any dynamic ocean-going lifestyle.

For more information click here.

Also Read: Introducing Monte Carlo Yacht’s new MCY 70 Skylounge

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Ferretti FY1000
World renowned Italian luxury yacht builder Ferretti Yachts adds to its flagship a new masterpiece designed to inspire ocean-going enthusiasts with a lifestyle that is never too big to aspire towards. The FY1000 is the shipyard’s first 100% wide-body vessel. With reshaped interiors and a new design that redefines comfort onboard. After 40,000 hours of concept development, 4,250 hours of naval design and 9,650 hours of prototyping, this extremely innovative 79-feet yacht is the largest the shipyard has ever built to this date, proving that nothing is worth more than time.

Designed by Architect Filippo Salvetti for the exteriors and Ideaeitalia for the interiors, the yachtmaker’s sophisticated hallmarks remain visible through its classic interior styling and hand-finished soft, balanced colour tones that give this boat its luxurious appeal and quintessentially Italian design. It also boasts incredible comfort in their indoor and outdoor zones, such as the extremely innovative and practical aft beach area and its spacious flybridge that seamlessly leads to the forward section of the hull. On the starboard side, an independent access to the garage will have owners find this are can accommodate a Williams Sportjet 445 tender, a personal watercraft and even 2 Seabob vessels.

A true home-away-from-home, this seascaping sloop features large floor-to-ceiling glazed windows, which brings to full view the surrounding ocean that keeps you feeling close to the sea, while its free-standing furniture and geometric detailing adds a sense of warmth that makes you feel right at home. Meanwhile wood is the dominant material found within the main deck of the yacht, allowing owners an opportunity to stamp their personal taste throughout the space with a selection of different colour tones that can be masterfully combined to create a sumptuously elegant interior, complemented by top-notch materials and fabrics.

For more information click here.

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Benetti Oasis 34M
Benetti is known the world over for its timeless yachts — exemplifying the epitome of Italian craftsmanship. However with its new Oasis range, the Italian shipyard has taken a rather out-of-the-box approach to living aboard. Showcasing a modern and convivial living space that take that brings its owner and guests closer to the ocean and each other.

Boundless beauty traces every line of the Oasis 34M. Firstly, highlighting its beautiful new deck design, Oasis Deck™, social activities here make for a true ocean going experience; especially with its opening wings that extends the deck closer to the water and a flush deck-integrated pool that elevates the beach club experience. Also featuring an unobstructed 270-degree view of the stern and a perfect balance of sun and shade for guests to enjoy the scenery at any time of day in any kind of weather.

On the inside, its main saloon boasts generous walking space that seamlessly connects to the outside. The level of continuity makes for a less formal and more convivial loft-like open-space concept that elegantly expands on space, a design that was aptly executed by New York-based land architect, Bonetti Kozerski. Infusing his perspective of land homes into a unique interior design for homes on sea — an elegant, less formal and casually convivial space has redefined the comfort of long stays on board and a truly immersive oceanic experience.

For more information click here.

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Benetti Motopanfilo 37M
For a more recent and modern approach that retains much of the Italian yachtmaker’s classic hallmarks, the company has also recently put out the Motopanfilo 37M, a breathtaking vessel that combines classic, timeless signatures of the shipyard’s design DNA with new, innovative and unapologetically modern elements. Unlike its Oasis counterpart, this sloop was intended to call to mind the traditional features of Italian yachtmaking, yet exude an elegant and modern sophistication that offers a lasting impression.

According to designers Claudio Lazzarini and Carl Pickering of Lazzarini & Pickering Architects, “The Motopanfilo interiors shall not resemble those of a house, but those of a boat”. A highlight here, is most definitely the sweeping views of the ocean, clearly visible from the main deck and punctuated by the mirrors within the interior space, elevating the perceptions of space and magnifying the sea views splendidly.

The dining and lounge areas, too, sits you in ample outdoor space while remaining safely shaded from the sun. The beach club, on the other hand, features a magnificent pool above the flybridge with full panoramic sights of passengers’ natural surroundings. Below deck, accommodation offers five generously spaced cabins that sleeps 10 people, including a master suite and four cabins for up to seven guests and crew members. Ensuring that an expedition with the whole family would be an enjoyable one to remember.

For more information click here.

Also Read: A unique ocean-going yachtcation with Lantau Yacht Club

Top things to see and do in Hong Kong this November

Need a reason to step out of the house? This month is serving up all sorts of fun activities. From the annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine, the much anticipated Spartan Race, and a slew of art festivals and exhibitions to watch out for. Check out what’s on the slate for November events.

Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival
1 – 30 Nov
Hong Kong gourmands rejoice! One of the city’s largest and most highly anticipated culinary events returns for a month-long gastronomic experience. This year the festival brings its events closer to you, and you closer to the city, in its first-ever “City Wine Walk”, a single tasting pass to limited-time only menus at more than 400 participating restaurants and bars across the city. Once again running congruent with its physical event, a live-streamed “Tasting On-Air” programme introduces virtual visitors to a series of expert-led rare wine tasting masterclass. So, foodies and wine lovers get ready to indulge in exclusive wines, a slew of delicious delicacies and innovative eats, and a “Chinese Omakase by Masterchefs”, featuring the city’s young and talented rising stars in the F&B industry.

For more information: discoverhongkong.com

Festive Korea
Until 28 Nov
All things Korean come to town with the 11th edition of Festive Korea, organised by the Korean Cultural Centre. With “K-Connected” as the theme of this year’s exchange of art and culture, Hongkongers can delight in a wealth of Korean experiences, from browsing through a cultural bazaar and admiring beautiful ceramics to indulging in delicious Korean food and the country’s famed pop culture. Korean classical musicians also get in on the act; a performance by world-renowned violinist Zia Shin and pianist Yoonie Han is another festival highlight.

Price: Free entry
Location: 6/F, PMQ, Hollywood Road, Central
For more information: hk.korean-culture.org

Poetic Heritage
Until 21 Nov
Curated by arts and heritage practitioner Alex Tam Hok-nang and spotlighting six contemporary artists from Hong Kong and beyond, the Poetic Heritage exhibition at Tai Kwun explores the untold stories of heritage through contemporary art. Whether through the preservation of physical objects or exploring cultural identity in the context of modern-day issues, visitors can glean how the past resonates in the present and ponder concerns raised about the homogenisation of heritage.

Price: Free entry
Location: JC Contemporary, Tai Kwun, Central
For more information: taikwun.hk

Hong Kong Spartan Sprint
20 – 21 Nov
Challenge yourself this month and push your limits like never before at the return of the Hong Kong Spartan Sprint. The 5k obstacle race is divided into three competitive categories: Elite, Age Group and Open. Children can also join in the strenuous fun of Kids Weekend, with races providing a podium for the young to test themselves and learn a sense of sportsmanship.

Price: From HK$900 (HK$480 for children)
Location: Kam Tin Country Club, New Territories
For more information: spartanrace.hk

New Vision Arts Festival 2021
Until 28 Nov
The annual New Vision Arts Festival is renowned for championing cutting-edge and boundary-pushing performing arts, adhering to its vision of crossover collaborations, nurturing new talents and commissioning new works. Forced to take a back seat on its fourth principle this year – overseas outreach – it nevertheless offers a smattering of virtual performances by artists who cannot make it here in person. Local audiences can choose from a series of musical, dance, film and multi-arts performances, screenings and exhibitions throughout the month.

Price and location varies:
For more information: nvaf.gov.hk

Nine Songs
26 – 28 Nov
Internationally renowned choreographer Helen Lai is joined by Oscar winners Tan Dun and Tim Yip, along with the Hong Kong Dance Company, in the revival of one of her most celebrated works, Nine Songs. Inspired by an epic poem collection in Chinese literature, dancers honour ancient legends in contemporary form, embodying the spirits of the sky, rivers, mountains and the dead, as well as the hopes of the living. This stunning performance marks the 30th anniversary of its premiere.

Price: From HK$160
Location: Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre, West Kowloon
For more information: westkowloon.hk

Mini Dough Warrior Workshop
13 Nov
As part of the annual Black Box Chinese Opera Festival 2021, Xiqu Centre is staging a dough figurine sculpting workshop for anyone curious to try their hand at this traditional craft. Join veteran master craftsman Moses Law Chung-man in modelling a 10cm-high miniature warrior out of dough – with the figure inspired by the lead character in the experimental Cantonese opera production Wenguang Explores the Valley. Materials and tools are provided for this three-hour masterclass; you just need a relatively skilled eye and steady hand.

Price: HK$250 per person
Location: Studio 3, Xiqu Centre, West Kowloon
For more information: westkowloon.hk

Into the Wild
Until 30 Nov
From edibles to edification, there’s more than just high tea to enjoy at the Mandarin Oriental this month. An interactive pop-up art exhibition in the East Lobby, Into the Wild, is a collaborative effort between the five-star hotel and French ethical skincare brand Chantecaille to raise awareness of endangered species and foster a better understanding of environmental conservation. In a unique and engaging experience, visitors are invited to take photographs with and of different wildlife in a safari setting via the brand’s ‘Wild Beauty’ AR app.

Price: Free entry
Location: Mandarin Oriental, Central
For more information: mandarinoriental.com

Zhang Jian-Jun: Human Traces
Until 14 Nov
K11 Art Foundation presents Chinese contemporary artist Zhang Jian-Jun’s solo show, Human Traces, in partnership with the Royal Academy of Arts. The culmination of the artist-in-residence programme in London, the travelling exhibition makes its final stop in Hong Kong, where a series of new works by the artist will be showcased. Each piece was made specifically for the city to reflect Zhang’s latest musings on the eternal themes of human beings, nature and time. Curated by Chinese scholar Wu Hung, the exhibition includes a guided tour.

Price: Free entry
Location: K11 HACC, L2, K11 Atelier King’s Road, Quarry Bay
For more information: k11artfoundation.org

We Are All Stars: Holiday Wonderland
6 Nov- 31 Dec
Charlotte Tilbury, the makeup artist to the stars, presents an instagrammable photo opportunity with London-chic vibes in the heart of Causeway Bay. The We Are All Stars pop-up bottles the magic of Tilbury’s luxury cosmetics, wrapped with Christmassy love, luck and treasures galore – play interactive games, win cute treats and feel like a star in this winter wonderland. Running till the end of December, get your hands on limited holiday edition collections, exclusive beauty gift packs – because what is Christmas without the spirit of gifting. Prior registration required.

Price: Free entry
Location: Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay
For more information: Charlotte Tilbury

Opening from 6th November to 31st December 2021 at Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay.

Also Read: Nine exciting events and exhibitions to visit in Hong Kong in October (igafencu.com)

Festive Scents: Trudon unveils new Christmas scented candle collection

Just in time for Christmas, the world’s oldest candlemaker Trudon has launched a special holiday collection inspired by the opulent court of Sun King Louis XIV at Versailles.

This royal motif is immediately evident on the glass, where the Trudon emblem is embellished with black and gold arabesques that recall the palace’s gates and ironworks. Enhancing its appeal even further are the chateau’s silhouette and royal masquerades that have been brought to life through the stunning illustrations of renowned British artist Lawrence Mynott.

Each vessel is painstakingly crafted by hand, and involves an intricate four-step process to achieve its unique stenciled design. First, gold foil is applied inside the glass, before a stencil is placed on top. Then, skilled artisans sand the foil through the stencil, ensuring only the illustration remains in place. A coat of paint is then applied to seal the structure into place.

Five holiday candles comprise the latest festive collection from Trudon: Gabriel, Ernesto, Gloria, Fir, and the all-new Bayonne. Each boasts a unique scent that are quintessentially part of Christmas celebrations, be it chimney fires, wood and spices, fir trees or spicy chocolate. All come in a Classic size of 270g, which is priced at HK$960. Available for purchase at Scented Niche starting from mid-November, these beautiful aromatic creations are perfect for enhancing your home this holiday season.

Diwali 2021: Guide to celebrating the Festival of Lights in Hong Kong

If there is one thing the Indian community is known for, it is throwing a spectacular party, and none other than Deepavali – or Diwali, in short – is the culture’s most grandiose of celebrations. It is one of the most important festival for the Indian community, also referred to as the ‘Festival of Lights’, Diwali is an occasion permeated with diyas (clay lamps), decorations, vibrant dresses and lots of traditional sweets.

What is Diwali?
Although traditionally, celebrations span over five days, starting with Dhanteras on 2 November for the year 2021, for businesses to ring in the new financial year, followed by chhotti diwali (new year’s eve) on the next day, in Hong Kong, it is the third day on 4 November that marks the main event – Diwali.

On this day, the more than 38,000-strong Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities celebrate the New Year and hold a pooja (prayer ceremony) for Lakshmi and Ganesh, the Gods of Prosperity and Health – celebrating the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Then, the rest of the day and the days that follows will be dedicated to friends and families to gather, dress up, eat a feast and turn up the Bollywood music! If you’re curious as to how to join in on the celebrations with your Indian friends, we guide you to the places to eat, the sweets to buy and where to get a beautiful traditional saris and sherwanis.

Sweets to Eat and Gift
Emblematic to the festival are the mouth-watering sweets that the community share among each other as a symbol of wishing one another a prosperous year. Bright, colourful and delectably delicious, desserts such as mithai, gulab jamun, kheer and jalebi are the traditional offerings on this occasion. Here’s where to get them…

Gaylord and Gunpowder
Prince Tower, Tsim Sha Tsui and J Residence, Wan Chai
Offering freshly-boxed Diwali sweets at both of its Indian restaurants, Gaylord and Gunpowder.
Price: From HK$150

Desi Bazaar
120 Caine Road, Mid-Levels
Desi Bazaar makes for a convenient trip to get your Indian snack fix if you live up in the mid-levels. An Indian grocery store with a range of products to choose from, it has the freshest of Diwali sweets.

gafencu_diwali_indian_new_year_deepavali_festival_of_light_celebration_festival_what_to_see_do_indian_food_new_punjab_club — *(Photo: New Punjab Club)*

Where to Eat
There can be no Indian celebration without the delicious feast that goes along with it. To mark the day with friends and families, here are the available Diwali menus…

New Punjab Club
34 Wyndham Street, Central
Black Sheep’s New Punjab Club has launched Chef Palash’s Chef Palash Dreams of Diwali, comprised of two Diwali delivery menus – Dhamaka (HK$558 per person) and the Dhanlakshmi (HK$478 per person). Think Lahori Charga (traditional fried chicken) and Paneer Tikka Lababdar (tandoor-cooked coottage cheese in onion and tomato masala).

They also have a Mithai Box of Sweet Dreams (HK$488 per box of 500gms) available for order.

Chaiwala
43-55 Wyndham Street, Central
From pani puri and Bombay fried chicken to tandoori lamb chops and more, the Central-set Chaiwala is offering a Diwali menu (HK$520 per person) for the entire week with an optional 2-hour free-flow (HK$240)

Bombay Dreams
46 Wyndham Street, Central
Another local favourite and the longest-standing Indian restaurant in the city, Bombay Dreams offers Indian staples and traditional dishes that will please any patron with a palate for savory and sweet. Also on offer is a sumptuous selection of mithais, malai cham cham, barfis and assorted sweet box to take home. (From HK$298 to HK$398)

Diyar and Candles
No Diwali celebration is complete without diyas (clay lamps) – representing enlightenment, knowledge and wisdom – in which candles are lit to dispel darkness into light. To grab your stock of decorative diyas, find them at SpiceBox Organics or Spice Store.

Traditional Wear
Diwali is no better time to show off your best saris and sherwanis, embellished with gold and vibrant shades, Sanskrit Bespoke Fashion, Ethnetica, and Kanta Trading Company are a few options to get your statement making piece.

Also Read: Feeling Festive? Home decor to brighten your Christmas celebrations