The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public...

2
Life and everything As recommended by Institute members Atmospheric dining by Michael Mak, Finance Director at Pizza Express Penthouse by Harlan Goldstein 30/F, Soundview Plaza 2 Midtown, 1-29 Tang Lung Street, Causeway Bay It’s rare for a restaurant in Causeway Bay to have a view as spectacular as that of the Penthouse by Harlan Goldstein. Located within the same building that houses other much talked-about restaurants, the Penthouse stands out, not only for its stunning view of the harbour, but also for its contemporary Western cuisine. Meat lovers should definitely try the tender Striploin Steak. But, if that’s too heavy, the chef’s signature Lobster Risotto (with Arborio rice, Maine lobster and Sakura shrimp) or the New York Chopped Salad are very delicious. After dinner, head to the open-air rooftop bar for a drink from the impressive wine menu. Beef & Liberty 2/F, 23 Wing Fung Street, Wanchai Beef & Liberty is known for its burgers and is owned by the company I work for. It serves only hormone-free, grass-fed Tasmanian beef, which is never frozen. To ensure maximum quality and freshness, the beef is minced and burgers are made daily in-house. With its super high ceiling and down-to-earth atmosphere, this is a great place for lunch, dinner or even a happy hour gathering. The Verandah at The Repulse Bay 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay The Repulse Bay Hotel was the setting for Chinese novel Love in a Fallen City ( 傾城之戀), written by Eileen Chang in 1944. While the original Art Deco building was demolished long ago, the space that inspired Chang is replicated at The Verandah. There, diners can enjoy a great view overlooking the bay as part of a weekend brunch, peaceful high tea or romantic anniversary dinner. I particularly appreciate the warm and attentive service provided by everyone from the waiters to the restaurant manager. Lucerne, Switzerland by Viking Yuen, Accountant at Travelzen Walking around Lucerne for me feels like being a part of an idyllic painting, with its historic architecture and breathtaking natural scenery. One of the main attractions is the 14th century Kapellbrücke (or Chapel Bridge), the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe that connects the old and the new district. By day, see the bridge decorated in vibrant blossoms, and at sunset, take a cruise out on Lake Lucerne. Unlike in Hong Kong, you rarely see people in Lucerne in a rush: the slow-paced nature of this city makes it the perfect relaxing getaway. 54 June 2015

Transcript of The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public...

Page 1: The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public …app1.hkicpa.org.hk/APLUS/2015/06/pdf/54-Life.pdfUnlike in Hong Kong, you rarely see people in Lucerne in a rush: the slow-paced nature

Life and everythingAs recommended by Institute members

Atmospheric dining by Michael Mak, Finance Director at Pizza Express

Penthouse by Harlan Goldstein30/F, Soundview Plaza 2 Midtown, 1-29 Tang Lung Street, Causeway BayIt’s rare for a restaurant in Causeway Bay to have a view as spectacular as that of the Penthouse by Harlan Goldstein. Located within the same building that houses other much talked-about restaurants, the Penthouse stands out, not only for its stunning view of the harbour, but also for its contemporary Western cuisine. Meat lovers should definitely try the tender Striploin Steak. But, if that’s too heavy, the chef’s signature Lobster Risotto (with Arborio rice, Maine lobster and Sakura shrimp) or the New York Chopped Salad are very delicious. After dinner, head to the open-air rooftop bar for a drink from the impressive wine menu. Beef & Liberty2/F, 23 Wing Fung Street, WanchaiBeef & Liberty is known for its burgers and is owned by the company I work for.

It serves only hormone-free, grass-fed Tasmanian beef, which is never frozen. To ensure maximum quality and freshness, the beef is minced and burgers are made daily in-house. With its super high ceiling and down-to-earth atmosphere, this is a great place for lunch, dinner or even a happy hour gathering.

The Verandah at The Repulse Bay109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse BayThe Repulse Bay Hotel was the setting for Chinese novel Love in a Fallen City (傾城之戀), written by Eileen Chang in 1944. While the original Art Deco building was demolished long ago, the space that inspired Chang is replicated at The Verandah. There, diners can enjoy a great view overlooking the bay as part of a weekend brunch, peaceful high tea or romantic anniversary dinner. I particularly appreciate the warm and attentive service provided by everyone from the waiters to the restaurant manager.

Lucerne, Switzerland by Viking Yuen, Accountant at Travelzen

Walking around Lucerne for me feels like being a part of an idyllic painting, with its historic architecture and breathtaking natural scenery. One of the main attractions is the 14th century Kapellbrücke (or Chapel Bridge), the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe that connects the old and the new district. By day, see the bridge decorated in vibrant blossoms, and at sunset, take a cruise out on Lake Lucerne. Unlike in Hong Kong, you rarely see people in Lucerne in a rush: the slow-paced nature of this city makes it the perfect relaxing getaway.

54 June 2015

Page 2: The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public …app1.hkicpa.org.hk/APLUS/2015/06/pdf/54-Life.pdfUnlike in Hong Kong, you rarely see people in Lucerne in a rush: the slow-paced nature

aplus

How to dress smart for summer by Caroline Sze, Founder and Corporate Image Styling Director of Seasoning

Best business apps by Simon Tang, President of CyberUAA

The hot and humid weather has rolled in, which means it’s time for both male and female professionals to strike that perfect balance between dressing smart and looking comfortable. For women, the good news is that loose fitting trouser suits with a cool edge are currently on-trend. Nevertheless, in most cases, suits and trousers are advised to be tailored for a sharp look. Women can choose handsomely unrestrained wide legged trousers and pair them with structured shirts. Meanwhile, a silk or light-weight shirt contrasts well with structured trousers or suits.

Men should steer away from suits that are too dark and opt for more tones or suits featuring subtle lines or checks. I also always encourage male professionals to wear accessories for an added twist, for example coloured buttonholes or a white “James Bond-fold” pocket square that peeps out from a light navy suit. This stylish detail will show your attention to detail in your profession as well as project your individuality. This summer, women should add a pop of colour to their work outfits consisting of a neutral dominant colour with a vibrant scarf, sleek belt or bag.

Womens1. Crossover V-neck

top, Cos2. Matt buckle belt,

Cos

Mens1. Check suit,

Paul Smith 2. Silk pocket square,

Paul Smith

2

1

1

2

When it comes to being more productive and organized, two apps comes to mind. The first one is Evernote, which is like a digital notebook that stores photos, audio clips, web pages, notes and files. Notes with attached images or voice memos can be shared efficiently with teammates, and checkboxes can be created to serve as virtual to-do lists. The app’s ability to search for text within images – using optical character recognition technology is also a plus.

The second is Mind Tools, which is a handy app for CPAs who are constantly looking to build skills. It offers quick refreshers on a variety of business and management topics, for example, how to undertake group brainstorming sessions, as well as decision-making techniques, in a creative way. The app features 12 groups of so-called toolkits, including leadership skills, team management, strategy tools, problem solving, decision making and project management.

Evernote

Mind Tools

June 2015 55