ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Since we are made from the image and likeness of God:
"The desire to create is one of the
deepest yearnings of the human soul."
- DIETER UCHTDORF

Being influenced into widening my horizons in pursuit of financial freedom, I've come to a realisation that the road to being rich is not easy. Time is of the essence, that's consideration number one. It's easy to say that everything follows after that. Taking advantage of the power of habit, compounding and your biggest emotional WHY are key factors. But I encounter bumps in the road every now and then such as slacking, procrastinating and doubting. According to the books I hold very substantial with my aims and goals, they always remind their readers to find a way to sustain such drive. This is due to the reason that at one point, it will be hard to keep up with your goals because of certain reasons, dilemmas and personal challenges. In short, we may find ourselves going back to our own bad habits when we don't feel some sort of gratification or reward with our chosen investment tools. And this is not just 1% of the people who tried to keep a budget (for example) to give justice to their goals. Most of the time, 99% fail because they didn't establish ways to continuously inspire themselves to keep the fire burning.

The books mentioned about choosing the people you hang out with and having mentors. Better yet, finding people that you may look up to who are experts in the field that you'd like to achieve. The most important thing is, establish your deepest WHY then find the people who'd respect and support it.

With that being said, I continuously observe myself as to how I'm usually moved, how do I get driven... Blessed be, the presence of an old colleague who now directs shows in the Philippines, taking a photo of me while performing had made me figure out that people, who become successful with their pursuit inspire me (like her) more than ever. That night, I thought of how far some of the people I knew from before had gone and I decided to feature them in terms of the small businesses they now own.

At first, I just wanted these people to be in my vision board to serve as an inspiration to me but I thought of sharing their story to all of you as well. Besides the recognition they deserve, it maybe one of the small business ideas that you were eyeing from the beginning but never had the courage to go for because of huge amounts of doubts in your head.

1. METRICA ENTERPRISES, DEL MUNDO ARCHITECTS

Townhouses built by Architect Alvin Gloda Del Mundo

a sample of what an accordion gate
looks like

OK people, I've got to start with the very familiar to me. I basically grew up seeing my mom and her siblings reign in Sampaloc, Manila (Philippines) with their real estate businesses. My parents had owned a Realty Corporation and a second-hand lumber before. They resell antique furnitures, sturdy accordion gates, high quality G.I. sheets (to name a few) in line with demolishing, building and selling town houses all over the district. Eventually, none of us had continued the business since, I ended up being a licensed nurse turned performing artist, our eldest became a dentist and our youngest graduated Information Technology turned nurse. (That almost sounded like a cycle I know!)

Any legacy ready to be built starts with a calling. And my cousin, ALVIN GLODA DEL MUNDO was called upon to design and build the modern town houses of today when he became a full-pledged architect.

"Never be afraid of CHANGE.
It will always be constant in our lives."
- Architect Alvin Gloda Del Mundo

I grew up with my cousins and Alvin was the youngest of us all. Because of that, he gets bullied most of the time and the way he reacts was actually funny. He would always mumble, "You will see, I will be somebody someday." And from then on, I know that he was a man of his word and failing was never in his vocabulary.

He graduated from Mapua Institute of Technology and had earned his license after several projects involving his mom.

My auntie, as I remember (and I hope she won't hate me saying this), was very strict on my cousin, Alvin. Being the only son, he was the only heir to manage the business that his mom had put up in great efforts. Eventually, it had paid off. No bias, but before Alvin reached 30, he had established a good reputation as a reliable manager of the family business involving her wife who's an architect as well and had been helping out in each of his project's design and utilisation.

Name of Company: METRICA ENTERPRISES, DEL MUNDO ARCHITECTS

Nature of Business: Design, build and sell, demolition of houses

Ownership: Family owned

Location: Manila, Philippines

Number of years before it was established: since he was college, 12-15 years

Edge of the Product (how is it different from others): They proudly design it from ground up. Their passion and profession are their edge over the other realtors.

Invested money on the business: Php 0.00 - since family owned

Price range of the product: Php 5-7 million/unit

Planned Investment, a hobby or ultimate dream? "Definitely an ULTIMATE DREAM!"

Training: MAPUA Institute of Technology for the engineering degree. Own enterprise for practice.

Is this your first business? Yes.

Further plans (expansion)? Bigger design office to cater more clients.

Little trivia about the business? I treat this business as my playground. It's the type of business that has no redundancy... every project/design is like a new toy to be played in the mind.

When Alvin was young, I would always see a lot of model vinyl collector's item sort of toys for his collection. The ones that you have tinker with to build its form. He was a fan of lego too and we loved playing in the second hand lumber back then. I am more than proud of how he had become that I look up to his achievements. You can contact him at his email if you're interested to avail of his services: hellspawn_alvin@yahoo.co.uk

2. EDGE 'N POINTE DANCE CENTRE

As a performing artist, I hail dance schools. Moreover, I know how hard it is to get kids into liking dance most especially when their parents are not even fond of this form of art to begin with.

Since I have handled a class for two whole summers in Jill Ngo's Peak Dance Studio 8 years ago, I can totally relate to short attention spans, bratty attitude and clueless faces as to why they have to dance. I feel that it is such an achievement every time I am able to make a kid move somehow back then. That's why I look up to a dance teacher's dedication.

Personally, dancing had been a way for me to balance myself. Besides writing, it is an utmost way to express myself. I love it very much that I don't mind doing it everyday. Now, that I get to do it, it gets a little harder to accept each day that there will come a time that I would get old and would not be as flexible or active as I am today. To that, I always see to it that I dance like my last each time.

"Put your passion as a front liner.
Nothing will work if you're not passionate
and if you don't love what you're doing."
- Verna Fajila-Brazil

As I get to work in the happiest place on earth, I was able to come across a pool of the most talented people.

Verna, one of the prima ballerinas of her time is both a blessing and an angel for me. Trained in Ballet Philippines, I had known Verna to be part of the chorus dancers (as a gazelle) of Hong Kong Disneyland's Lion King Theatre Show.

At a volleyball match, she was one of the people who had saw a spark between my husband (now) and I upon our first meet-up 8 years ago. Little did I know then that he kept on asking her who I was.

Verna's aspiration was to become a professional ballerina since she was little. In fulfilling this dream, she worked hard and looked up to all the people that helped her reach her dreams. She realised that she was being called to teach as her passion for dance had grown enormously thru the years. She believed that she could inspire younger generations thru performing arts.

One thing I know about Verna is that, she is a very selfless person, very thoughtful and kind. This shines thru her wide range of scholarships thru the dance workshops she offers at Edge 'N Pointe. She offers a long list amounting from HK$0 to HK$500/month. She got encouraged to put up Edge 'N Pointe in Hong Kong since she had seen the difference she believes she could make. And that is to cultivate it more to those who are interested.

Name of Company: EDGE 'N POINTE DANCE CENTRE

Nature of Business: Dance and performing arts school.

Edge 'n Pointe Dance Centre caters to kids from 2 to adults that and is teaching a wide array of dance classes including:

BALLET, ZUMBA, JAZZ, CONTEMPORARY, LATIN DANCE, TAP, KINDERMUSIC.

Ownership: Verna Fajilan-Brazil

Location: Hong Kong

Number of years before it was established: She had dedicated all her life for this to be established. Business wise, it was never her intention to come up with a business but it was her ultimate dream to have a school.

Verna as part of Ballet Philippines takes a flight
in its production of Cinderella, 2002

Edge of the Product (how is it different from others): The main edge is the quality of learning they provide. As a lover of arts, Verna's aim is to cultivate the art of dancing in our society much further. For that objective to be given justice, it is important for her that the team she's working with are not half-baked. This way, the passion and the art of dance would be instilled to the students at its finest.

Invested money on the business: Money or earning is just a plus for Verna. TIME is of the essential investment since she had dedicated all her life to making this happen. She had invested in herself and the learning she got from her teachers are priceless. With that being said, she is willing to share what she had learned for the sake of learning and exploration on her students' behalf.

Price range of the product: HK$0 (for scholars) up to HK$500/class

Planned Investment, a hobby or ultimate dream?"Definitely an ULTIMATE DREAM!", says Verna.

Training: Ballet Philippines

The Nutcracker, 2003

Is this your first business? Yes.

Further plans (expansion)? A number of centres have asked their help with their programmes and they're more than glad to do so. They have one with Baumhaus (Hong Kong), Wan Chai, Admiralty.

They've also won the Group Of the Year in participating in the Aberdeen International Youth Festival in Scotland.

Now they are in Portland, sharing further their talents and widening their horizons more and more in the name of arts.

Little trivia about the business?

"We just came back from the Aberdeen International Youth Festival in Scotland. It is one of the best and biggest youth arts festivals in the world. Without government or corporate sponsorship, we depended on individual donors. Although we were only able to raise 1/3 of the costs, and I personally loaned the rest, I decided to take this risk just to foster the arts in the youth. The dancers did very well there and although the festival is not a competition but a gathering of young artists worldwide, we were surprised when we were presented the Group of the Year Award at the end of the festival. Truly heartwarming."

- Verna

Here's a glimpse of how their rehearsal went. This is truly inspiring. What more you would watch the real performance!

Contact Details: 
Email: admin@edgenpointe.com
Phone Number: 66882167

3. PARALLAX DANCE COMPANY

"If you are passionate about your dreams,
and you are willing to work hard for it,
GO FOR IT!
Don't let anyone or anything stop you.
Go straight to the path,
don't even contemplate on having a fall back!
Because once you do,
you're just allowing failure to seep in!
Jordan Punsalang, Art Director,
Parallax Dance Company

There is yet another colleague of mine that had put up his own dance company in Australia.

I have been under Jordan Punsalang for a scholarship grant from FEDEX Philippines. Cheerleaders were to perform every halftime for every game FEDEX team would play in the annual Philippine Basketball Association League. He was our choreographer. During the course of the season, there were dance classes in between for us cheerleaders to be aided in adapting to jazz style. Specifically, Jordan's style.

This had sharpened my skills, pushed me to my limit and had helped me love dancing even more because its orgasmic high that takes place every after show keeps me energetic enough to keep up with my studies. I had benefited on the endorphin release that takes place because I took dancing as my form of exercise back then.

Jordan was strict on all of us in general back then but it moulded me into getting more aware of my physique. What it can do and how it can perform better. Jordan emphasised the cliche, "Dancers are the athletes of God." and he continuously aims to serve his purpose by using his talents at its maximum. He teaches, conducts recitals, makes projects happen all to hail the craft of dancing, a talent that is a gift from God. I remember him saying, "I would never have a shy attitude because God had blessed me with enough armour to make me confident enough. I would never choose to take this gift for granted because I know that everyday is an opportunity to make myself better at it." as a form of encouraging shy girls that I was team mates with back then.

Of course, every now and then he has gigs so I also danced under his group, Dancecap. With that being said, windows of opportunities had opened up (choreographing for commercials, corporate events and shows).

Jordan is one of the few teachers I had that truly inspired me into digging deeper as far as passion is concerned. He influenced me greatly not only in terms of dance but also in life. Being talented is just one of his great qualities but on top of that, he's smart, confident and fearless. These are the major attributes he exemplified on me. And yet again, I am in awe when I learned that upon his migration to Australia, he had established a dance company of his own in approximately 6 months.

Parallax Dance Company is one of Geelong's finest dance companies,
composed of highly skilled dancers all over the region.

Name of Company: PARALLAX DANCE COMPANY

Nature of Business: Dance Company and Dance School

Ownership: Own Company

Location: MAAD Studios, Geelong, Victoria, Australia

Number of years before it was established: 6 months upon moving to Australia

Edge of the Product (how is it different from others): Before Parallax Dance Company had been established, Jordan Punsalang had taught in countless studios in the Philippines. With that much knowledge from his collegiate years to teaching commercially, now he's in Australia to share this extensive amount of knowledge and infusing it with what Australia had grown used to.

Price range of the product: Php AUS$12-15/class/person

Planned Investment, a hobby or ultimate dream? Primarily, Jordan did it in the name of passion. As planned, it is both an investment and a dream.

Training: He admits that he's not trained in business. But he has experience in handling dance companies and had facilitated dance schools.

What encouraged you to take the first step? Knowing how confident Jordan is, he follows his gut most of the time in making decisions. What he feels right inside is usually his decision maker.

Contact Details:

Get in touch or be abreast with the latest shows, workshops and events by liking their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/parallaxdancecompany.
Contact Number: +61 434 036 933

Is this your first business? It is his first in Australia.

Further plans (expansion): "Hopefully, in the next couple of years, I can put up another studio.", wishes Jordan

Little trivia about the business: Jordan had emphasised the number of dance schools in their cities which is around 40. And his dance company is the only one run by a male.

4. MAUI O.M.W. (ONE MORE WAVE)

"A positive attitude is very important.
So you need to be a people person."
- Shane K Dudoit

One thing I quite remember so well as I feed my brain with the do's and don't's of acquiring riches is that, you should always be open to opportunities. Everything starts with an idea. And if we are going to truly listen and focus, ideas are everywhere. We may even attract them. Even with the simplest things we do and the most usual events occurring every time, every day, what you usually are obsessed with, could be a good idea. Most often than not, to turn into a business. What you love doing is what you do best. A fun fact to consider is that, when you see yourself procrastinating to give way to this thing that you do best, or time stops when you actually do it, that's what usually gives you loads and loads of money. You deny to yourself that you're working nor you feel the load because you LOVE what you're doing. Hence, there's no labor to consider. It's amazing if you'll be aware of this power that you have early on. But for some people, it's never too late.

That's why the last, but not the least, person that I would be including is the one that made a business out of what he loves to do. SURFING.

Now, to be honest, I don't really know much about it but it's something worth trying. I have never surfed before. But I am more than willing to learn provided, affordable surf lessons are available.

To cater to that need of many a number of tourists  like me who don't know how to surf, yet are interested, Shane K Dudoit had put up MAUI O.M.W. in Maui, Hawaii but he had made it available to Asians by making the booking doable here in Hong Kong as well. Marketing wise, he is a Hong Kong resident so, he makes MAUI O.M.W. accessible to both the east and west. But before I go further, let me tell you something about Shane.

I've known Shane to be one of my husband's co-workers at the happiest place on earth. A true performing artist as he loves and enjoys dancing. I remember a cha cha number we did altogether and he opened it with a breathtaking choreography that was sizzling hot to put an intro to it. But going back to where he had been born and where he grew up in (Makawao, Hawaii), he was a traditional dance performer owning the authentic Polynesian grace and style entertaining hundreds of tourists that visit.

Fire Knife Dancer, Festival of the Lion King,
Hong Kong Disneyland, 2005-2014

His calling to perform to different kinds of people didn't stop there as he came to Asia to be part of  the Hong Kong Disneyland's Lion King Theatre Show. He had performed in stilts, danced in chorus and was a fire knife dancer. There's not many of them here in Asia so he shares that when he sees one, they instantly know they are connected somehow.

Hoku, as he is known to us, is fond of sports (he's a rower, shoots some ball and is very good in any water sports, most especially surfing) and he loves going to the gym. He loves doing Capoeira. Furthermore, he is attached to the ocean and he owns a shark tattoo that signifies his love for it hidden in the traditional Polynesian tattoo.

Since he was 7, he had sworn love to the ocean. He was actually a certified life guard before coming over to Hong Kong. As he becomes inspired by an acquaintance in Hong Kong to think about his life, what he wants to do and how that person believed in him lit a fire in his heart to go for it.


Name of Company: MAUI O.M.W. (ONE MORE WAVE)

Nature of Business: Surfing Schools, Private Surfing Lessons and Sales

Description of Product: My products are 9-11 ft. Soft Top Long Boards, and Stand Up Paddle Boards, and a couple of Epoxy Stand Up Boards

Ownership: Own Company

Location: Maui, Hawaii

Number of years before it was established: 7 years

Edge of the Product (how is it different from others): The approach I'm taking is not just to teach them how to surf but to educate the guests regarding the culture of Hawaii as well as this is very important to me. That way, tourists and guests wouldn't miss out on what they should see and experience in visiting the beautiful island.

Planned Investment, a hobby or ultimate dream? It had been an ultimate dream for over 7 years.

Training: Not everybody can surf. I have studied in a good surfing school in Hawaii and joined several Surfing Competitions after that. Overall, I did 30 years of training and competing.

What encouraged you to take the first step? "First step was to put God in the lead of my business. And I gotta keep telling myself to JUST DO IT. Thank God for a video in youtube. I don't know his name but it was the lead star of the first transformers and he just kept on shouting in this video, 'JUST DO IT!' Now I try to put off negative vibes that the DEVIL tries to put before me.", says Hoku

Contact Details:

For booking a session,

Email:
Maui.OneMoreWave@gmail.com
hokugosurf2003@yahoo.com

or call him at,

Maui Tel: 808-205-4286
Hong Kong Tel: 852-9840-3069

Is this your first business? Yes

Further plans (expansion): Right now, the business is yet to be officially up. Contact Hoku to book surfing lessons in 2 or 3 months. "I am waiting for my boards to be made which usually takes 15-30 days to make and 20-30 days on the boat for shipping.", he adds.

He is also interested in putting up a school here in Hong Kong because he loves this city.

Little trivia about the business: As the business is situated in Maui, here are some of the fun facts that Hoku may share about the place for you to further be in love:

1. HAWAII became the 50th US state declared on August 21, 1959.
2. The highest peak on Maui is Haleakala Volcano 10,023 feet, 21 miles across and 4,000 feet deep. Large enough to hold the island of Manhattan.
3. Maui has 81 accessible beaches, 16 golf courses, 10 state parks and 1 national park.

These are who I have gathered so far. It's interesting how they have turned their obsession, passion, hobby and talent into a commodity available for others to learn from, adapt and share. As a reminder, selling is not wrong. Moreover, selling personal service defy nothing. FEAR is the only thing that can defy everything that you have worked for. And SELF-DOUBT feeds it.

Related posts:

1. SIGNED, A 32 YEAR OLD - A message for 20 year olds onwards.
2. CASHFLOW - A game that may take you out of the rat race of real life.
3. HOW FINANCIALLY WEALTHY ARE YOU? - Assess yourself and know your financial status with the help of these six simple questions.

Signed, a 32 year old

Dear 20 year olds and above,

Right before you graduate, know that time is the most essential commodity ever known to man. Give it to the ones who deserve it, give it to yourself when you need it and establish a legacy over it. Once you get to achieve all these, being timeless is not impossible. Nobody is exempted from dying but you were born with a purpose.

Make it happen.

Signed,
a 32 year old

Related Posts:

1. PARADIGM SHIFT - 3 of the greatest lessons I've learned as I turn 30+ !
2. THIRTY MAJOR CAUSES OF FAILURE, HOW MANY OF THESE ARE HOLDING YOU BACK? - Now, you get the chance to be aware on what you should actually avoid as you pursue your dreams.
3. 15 THINGS TO GIVE UP - Giving up is never my option but life taught me why I had to because of these 15 things/reasons.

THE THIRTY MAJOR CAUSES OF FAILURE, HOW MANY OF THESE ARE HOLDING YOU BACK?

For my #DIYMonday, I would like to encourage everybody to keep abreast of your strengths and weaknesses by being aware of the common causes of failure. The importance lies on knowing what you might be having or doing wrong as of the moment in order to set yourself straight and in order for you to fully know your WORTH. 

THINK AND GROW RICH by NAPOLEON HILL says:

Life's greatest tragedy consists of men and women who earnestly try, and fail! The tragedy lies in the overwhelmingly large majority of people who fail, as compared to the few who succeed.

I have had the privilege of analysing several thousand men and women, 98% of whom were classed as "failures". There is something radically wrong with a civilisation, and a system of education, which permit 98% of the people to go through life as failures. But I did not write this book for the purpose of moralising on the rights and wrongs of the world; that would require a book a hundred times the size of this one.

My analysis work proved that there are thirty major reasons for failure, and thirteen major principles through which people accumulate fortunes. In this chapter, a description of the thirty major causes of failure will be given. As you go over the list, check yourself by it, point by point, for the purpose of discovering how many of these causes-of-failure stand between you and success.

1. UNFAVORABLE HEREDITARY BACKGROUND

 There is but little, if anything which can be done for people who are born with a deficiency in brain power. This philosophy offers but one method of bridging this weakness-through the aid of the Master Mind. Observe with profit, however, that this is the ONLY one of the thirty causes of failure which may not be easily corrected by any individual.

2. LACK OF A WELL-DEFINED PURPOSE IN LIFE

There is no hope of success for the person who does not have a central purpose, or definite goal at which to aim. Ninety-eight out of every hundred of those whom I have analysed, had no such aim. Perhaps this was the

3. LACK OF AMBITION TO AIM ABOVE MEDIOCRITY

We offer no hope for the person who is so indifferent as not to want to get ahead in life, and who is not willing to pay the price.

4. INSUFFICIENT EDUCATION

This is a handicap which may be overcome with comparative ease. Experience has proven that the best-educated people are often those who are known as "self-made", or "self-educated". It takes more than a college degree to make one a person of education. Any person who is educated is one who has learned to get whatever he wants in life without violating the rights of others. Education consists, not so much of knowledge, but of knowledge effectively and persistently APPLIED. Men are paid, not merely for what they know, but more particularly for WHAT THEY DO WITH THAT WHICH THEY KNOW.

5. LACK OF SELF-DISCIPLINE

Discipline comes through self-control. This means that one must control all negative qualities. Before you can control conditions, you must first control yourself. Self-mastery is the hardest job you will ever tackle. If you do not conquer self, you will be conquered by self. You may see at one and the same time, both your best friend and your greatest enemy, by stepping in front of a mirror.

6. ILL HEALTH

No person may enjoy outstanding success without good health. Many of the causes of ill health are subject to mastery and control. These, in the main are:

a. Overeating of foods not conducive to health.

b. Wrong habits of thought; giving expression to negatives.

c. Wrong use of, and over indulgence in sex.

d. Lack of proper physical exercise.

e. An inadequate supply of fresh air, cut to improper breathing.

7. UNFAVORABLE ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES DURING CHILDHOOD

"As the twig is bent, so shall the tree grow." Most people who have criminal tendencies acquire them as the result of bad environment, and improper associates during childhood.

8. PROCRASTINATION

This is one of the most common causes of failure. "Old Man Procrastination" stands within the shadow of every human being, waiting his opportunity to spoil one's chances of success. Most of us go through life as failures, because we are waiting for the "time to be right" to start doing something worthwhile. Do not wait. The time will never be "just right." Start where you stand, and work with whatever tools you may have at your command, and better tools will be found as you go along.

9. LACK OF PERSISTENCE

Most of us are good "starters" but poor "finishers" of everything we begin. Moreover, people are prone to give up at the first signs of defeat. There is no substitute for PERSISTENCE. The person who makes PERSISTENCE his watch-word, discovers that "Old Man Failure" finally becomes tired, and makes his departure. Failure cannot cope with PERSISTENCE.

10. NEGATIVE PERSONALITY 

There is no hope of success for the person who repels people through a negative personality. Success comes through the application of POWER, and the power is attained through the cooperative efforts of other people. A negative personality will not induce cooperation.

11. LACK OF CONTROLLED SEXUAL URGE

Sex energy is the most powerful of all the stimuli which move people into ACTION. Because it is the most powerful of the emotions, it must be controlled, through transmutation, and converted into other channels.

12. UNCONTROLLED DESIRE FOR "SOMETHING FOR NOTHING"

The gambling instinct drives millions of people to failure. Evidence of this may be found in a study of the Wall Street crash of '29, during which millions of people tried to make money by gambling on stock margins.

13. LACK OF A WELL DEFINED POWER OF DECISION

Men who succeed reach decisions promptly, and change them, if at all, very slowly. Men who fail, reach decisions, if at all, very slowly, and change them frequently, and quickly. Indecision and procrastination are twin brothers. Where on is found, the other may usually be found also. Kill off this pair before they completely "hog-tie" you to the treadmill of FAILURE.

14. ONE OR MORE OF THE SIX BASIC FEARS

These fears have been analysed for you in a later chapter. They must be mastered before you can market your services effectively.

15. WRONG SELECTION OF A MATE IN MARRIAGE

This is a most common cause of failure. The relationship of marriage brings people intimately into contact. Unless this relationship is harmonious, failure is likely to follow. Moreover, it will be a form of failure that is marked by misery and unhappiness, destroying all signs of AMBITION.

16. OVER-CAUTION

The person who takes no chances, generally has to take whatever is left when others are through choosing. Over-caution is as bas as under-caution. Both are extremes to be guarded against. Life itself is filled with the element of chance.

17. WRONG SELECTION OF ASSOCIATES IN BUSINESS

This is one of the most common causes of failure in business. In marketing personal services, one should use great care to select an employer who will be an inspiration, and who is, himself, intelligent and successful. We emulate those with whom we associate most closely. Pick an employer who is worth emulating.

18. SUPERSTITION AND PREJUDICE.

Superstition is a form of fear. It is also a sign of ignorance. Men who succeed keep open minds and are afraid of nothing.

19. WRONG SELECTION OF A VOCATION

No man can succeed in a line of endeavour which he does not like. The most essential step in the marketing of personal services is that of selecting an occupation into which you can throw yourself wholeheartedly.

20. LACK OF CONCENTRATION OF EFFORT.

The "jack-of-all-trades" seldom is good at any. Concentrate all of your efforts on one DEFINITE CHIEF AIM.

21. THE HABIT OF INDISCRIMINATE SPENDING.

The spend-thrift cannot succeed, mainly because he stands eternally in FEAR OF POVERTY. Form the habit of systematic saving by putting aside a definite percentage of your income. Money in the bank gives on a very safe foundation of COURAGE when bargaining for the sale of personal services. Without money, one must take what one is offered, and be glad to get it.

22. LACK OF ENTHUSIASM

Without enthusiasm one cannot be convincing. Moreover, enthusiasm is contagious, and the person who has it, under control, is generally welcome in any group of people.

23. INTOLERANCE.

The person with a  "closed" mind on any subject seldom gets ahead. Intolerance means that one has stopped acquiring knowledge. The most damaging forms of intolerance are those connected with religious, racial, and political differences of opinion.

24. INTEMPERANCE.

The most damaging forms of intemperance are connected with eating, strong drink, and sexual activities. Overindulgence in any of these is fatal to success.

25. INABILITY TO COOPERATE WITH OTHERS.

More people lost their positions and their big opportunities in life because of this fault, than for all other reasons combined. It is a fault which no well-informed business man, or leader will tolerate.

26. POSSESSION OF POWER THAT WAS NOT ACQUIRED THROUGH SELF EFFORT.

(Sons and daughters of wealthy men, and others who inherit money which they did not earn). Power in the hands of one who did not acquire it gradually, is often fatal to success. QUICK RICHES  are more dangerous than poverty.

27. INTENTIONAL DISHONESTY

There is no substitute for honesty. One may be temporarily dishonest by force of circumstances over which on has no control, without permanent damage. But, there is NO HOPE for the person who is dishonest by choice. Sooner or later, his deeds will catch up with him, and he will pay by loss of reputation, and perhaps even loss of liberty.

28. EGOTISM AND VANITY.

These qualities serve as red lights which warn others to keep away. THEY ARE FATAL TO SUCCESS.

29. GUESSING INSTEAD OF THINKING

Most people are too indifferent or lazy to acquire FACTS with which to THINK ACCURATELY. They prefer to act on "opinion" created by guesswork or snap-judgements.

30. LACK OF CAPITAL.

This is a common cause of failure among those who start out in business for the first time, without insufficient reserve of capital to absorb the shock of their mistakes, and to carry them over until they have established a REPUTATION.

31. Under this, name any particular cause of failure from which you have suffered that has not been included in the foregoing list.

In these thirty major causes of failure is found a description of the tragedy of life, which obtains for practically every person who tries and fails. It will be helpful if you can induce someone who knows you well to go over this list with you, and help to analyse you by the thirty causes of failure. It may be beneficial if you try this alone. Most people cannot see themselves as others see them. You may be one who cannot.

The oldest of admonitions is "Man, know thyself!" If you market merchandise successfully, you must know the merchandise. The same is true in marketing personal services. You should know all of your weaknesses in order that you may either bridge them or eliminate them entirely. You should know your strength in order that you may call attention to it when selling your services. You can know yourself only through accurate analysis.

The folly of ignorance in connection with self was displayed a young man who applied to the manager of a well known business for a position. He made a very good impression until the manager asked him what salary he expected. He replied that he had no fixed sum in mind (lack of a definite aim). The manager then said, "We will pay you all you are worth, alter we try you out for a week."

"I will not accept it," the applicant replied, "because I AM GETTING MORE THAN THAT WHERE I AM NOW EMPLOYED."

Before you even start to negotiate for a readjustment of your salary in your present position, or to seek employment elsewhere, BE SURE THAT YOU ARE WORTH MORE THAN YOU NOW RECEIVE.

It is one thing to WANT money -- everyone wants more -- but it is something entirely different to be WORTH MORE! Many people mistake their WANTS for their JUST DUES. Your financial requirements or wants have nothing whatever to do with your WORTH. Your value is established entirely by your ability to render useful service or your capacity to induce others to render such service.

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Ballet Manila in Hong Kong

"It's not about the shoes, it's about what you do in them."
-MICHAEL JORDAN

The Asian Grand Prix Mission International Ballet Competition is an international platform created to inspire and recognise the artistic excellence of passionate and dedicated ballet dancers.

This competition aims to provide an opportunity for talented ballet dancers to demonstrate their talents, explore their potentials, and learn from their peers as well as from the professionals.

Outstanding dancers receive cash awards for advancing their career in professional ballet companies or receive scholarships to further their training in renowned ballet schools.

LISA MACUJA
CEO and Director
Ballet Manila, Philippines

Representing Asia, AGP hosts this annual event in Hong Kong and invites ballet stars from all over the world to perform at the Gala Performance.

- AGP  Mission

This year, Ballet Manila will grace the Y-Theatre of their newest masterpiece called "Flight". Its most talented dancers were sent off to participate in the Gala Performance on August 8 (7:30pm) and August 9 (2:30pm).

"Flight" is a combination of all its famous best selling pieces choreographed by world class teachers namely, Agnes Locsin, Augustus Damian III, Gerardo Francisco and the late Tony Fabella.

For those who would like to see them perform, Filipino groups will get huge discounts (HK$80 each) if your group is composed of 20 people and up. Please do leave a comment below if you're interested.

Ticket prices are:

HK$80, HK$180, HK$280, HK$380, HK$480

Another dance project to watch is the Transcendance Project: "Children of War". Presented by Nina Gelladuga,  it is about the war the modern world is currently facing. It says a lot about the precariats, who continuously thrive after the war had been survived. As life's challenges constantly shakes them up, what happens?

That you will get a chance to see on August 15 and 16 from at 8pm in McAulay Studio, Hong Kong Arts Centre. Tickets are available at URBTIX. Click here to book it. For ticketing enquiries, you may also call 3761-6661 and for credit card telephone booking, 2111-5999. For programme enquiries, you may call 6332 7301 or email children.of.war@gmail.com.

"Each body is affected by its form-of-life as if by a clinamen,
a leaning, an attraction, a taste. A body leans toward what leans its way.
This goes for each and every situation. Inclination go both ways."
- Tiqqun, Introduction to Civil War

"Children of War" is a dance performance reflecting on the social and psychological impact of war on children. As if to offer us relief from the normalisation of war, this performance piece reminds us of the children as both prime symbol of the disruptive impact of a life without reprieve from and an embodiment of an aspiration for gentle, peaceful, settled and dignified life. "Children of War" upholds the lives that children deserve - a life safe from harm, from the traumatic sojourn of refuge, from being orphaned and free from overlapping sound of bombs. In looking at their conditions through dance, bodily propositions, and visual environment, this work not only calls attention to how children have become vestiges of war but of how the adults are themselves children, or to be more precise, surviving children of war.

Proceso Gelladuga II
behind him are his paintings

Further more, it is the inaugural project of Transcendance, an arts initiative that aims to stimulate collaborative multimedia projects by bringing together like-minded artists, dancers, former dancers, dance students and enthusiasts. It endeavours to encompass the limits of what dance performances are expected to be and propose alternative methods of presentation and production of dance. Let by husband and wife, Pro and Nina Gelladuga, Children of War also features dancers Sarah Tang, Johnny Amar, Vincent Egido with lights by Billy Wong, visual design by Koala Yip and music and sound design by Fional Lee. This production is made possible through a venue subsidy grant from the HK Arts Center.

If you have time, please do support my friends, Nina, Pro and Vincent for they truly are creative geniuses. Their passion had brought life to this project. I've known Pro for the remarkable portraits we have at home and I know Nina to be one of the bests in her craft. I've seen Vincent also and his core and technique had been reliable enough for him to be able to dance his heart out. And for me, every artists should be able to emulate the way he does. He's one of a kind. Very soulful and free.

1st Dance and Nature Project 2015 which will happen from August 17th to 29th in Finca Manantial  De Tara, Arafo, located in Camino del Portugues 42, 38550 Arafo, Canarias, Spain, is a unique fusion between nature and the art of dance. It is infusing all nature's 5 elements, into the essence of dance.

The work we will delve into will be primarily focused on one hand on great dance styles such as Flying Low and Passing Through, Contact Improvisation, Release, Physical Theatre and Choreographic methodologies, and on th either on the traditional Alchemy and Fusion energy-meditiations and practices from Taoist and Chi Gong lineage. To enhance the practice, we will infuse Buddhist values and philosophies as well as Kundalini Yoga meditations and Kriyas.

Brief Schedule:

Morning classes: Chi Gong and Kundalini Yoga 

Breakfast

Afternoon classes: Technique and Improvisation

Lunch

Late afternoon class: Improvisation and Creation

Dinner

Free time and space for rehearsals and discussions

Vangelis is organizing this project so as to integrate dance with nature and the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water) from the Taoist and Chi Gong lineage. We will have intensive workshops but also space and time to develop solo and duets inspired by nature. It is a project where we can reconnect back to mother earth, to find our true nature of being and also reconnect with each other; to reconnect with people from different countries, backgrounds and experiences. We will work in studio but also in Nature, we will have cars to take us to the island so as to work, research and develop in unique place of nature in this beautiful island. Vangelis focuses this project on solo and duet works so as to delve deeper on personal and individual practice and develop our dance language and choreography through a process of self-reflection and introspection.

We have confirmed performance on the 29th of August at the Teatro Victoria with the special support by Roberto Torres, and also to be confirmed we will have performances at the theatre of Arafo and site specific performances as part of the local festivities of municipality of Arafo. Vangelis invites people from all diverse backgrounds and continents so as to collectively create an artistic environment where all participants will evolve not only as artists but also as personalities.

Classes description:

Embodied Unity

Vangelis will teach flying low and passing through improvisation class in combination with five elements Chi Gong. After many years of research Vangelis has created this unique class of fusion of energy work, contact improvisation, flying low and passing through. It is a high technical improvisation class, by working on original flying low sequences and principles to find the right foundation to express and expand from. 

In the afternoon classes Vangelis will facilitate choreography and composition intensive workshops through his yearlong research on Chi Gong and five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water) including the meridians from Chinese Traditional Medicine. This will be enhanced influenced by great teachers that have inspired him for many years: William Forsythe, Julyen Hamilton, Gill Clarke and David Zambrano. He will open the space for creating solos and duets to present at the end of the project in the theatre of Arafo and Teatro Victoria in Santa Cruz. We will delve deeper on individual and partnering interconnections but even more important we will connect all five elements (earth, metal water, wood, fire) with nature and the human organs to find a sense of being instead of doing.

Release and Reconnect

Kuan will be teaching release technique improvisation based, floor work, and contact improvisation based on the various and diverse experience she has. We will be using situational games to enhance the body-mind connection and mindfulness awareness. Movement qualities will be a main focus so as to investigate deeper and develop our dance language. During her classes you will explore and confront your own vocabulary through improvisation, contact and partnering. The class will be physical and challenging to reawaken and reconnect the body with the mind. By reconnecting you will explore what moves you in different unique ways so as to express from within.

Physical Theatre | 

Voice and Movement from the Body to Nature

Gamze will focus on waking up the energies of the body with Tao Vinyasa, golden Seed flow and strong breathing technics. We will work in the studio but also in nature so as to take be influence and stimulated through the five elements. We will feel the power of nature within the body so as to explore unknown potentials and nurture unlimited creativity. We will work on improvisational body and voice games and tools, and throughout unearthed feelings we will reflect on our inner self-potentials to express ourselves genuinely and authentically. We will create different embodied movements that will form sequences and choreographic phrases that can present our inner essence influenced by nature itself. We will work on meditation and Chi Gong alongside to the voice, motion, and physical theatre.

How to apply:

Send your CV and a motivation letter to

vangelis.legakis@googlemail.com

Costs for participants:

450 Euros including accommodation and food

400 Euros if apply before 5 July

Contact details:

For more information and a full file of all the activities, teachers, schedule, workshops and theatre performances please contact vangelis.legakis@googlemail.com

2013, Kuan's Birthday,
Red Bar, Hong Kong

I am more than thankful that I get to meet Kuan for she is one of the most talented people I know in Contemporary Dance. She had become a friend and a colleague and in support of what she has to share, I would like to let you know that she would be gracing the students with her knowledge in dance fresh from the classes she had in New York. In pursuit of combining it with nature, Kuan's Chinese culture speaks out. Our bodies and minds co-exist and keeping it in balance is the main objective.

If you will be in Spain during these dates, you might be interested to go for a retreat.

For more of these kind of artistic presentations, shows and getaways, follow the hashtag, #swagginsaturday. You can also follow me by enlisting your email. This way, you wouldn't miss out on anything. Check out the column on the right for submission. If you also would like to showcase some of your projects, missions and get togethers that may need faster announcements, invite me in Facebook as soon you put up the event and/or write me a personal message.

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3. GRAND COLOANE RESORT - looking for a place to take your family in Macau? Here's a good place to visit.

10 THINGS TO DO IN HONG KONG

Hong Kong, as it sits on the southeastern China, is surrounded by a naval harbour, making it a melting pot that holds a dense population. The people are made up of different kinds of races, owning different kinds of culture. On top of that, a lot of tourists come in and out of Hong Kong. So the country caters to a wide array of cravings, expectations and demands in terms of food, entertainment and adventure.

Here's a list of what to do as you visit and stay here in Hong Kong.

1. HONG KONG DISNEYLAND

Most of us love instant gratification. To Asians who had been longing to have a Disneyland experience, flying to Hong Kong becomes the first consideration. I was born in Manila, Philippines and seldom did I meet anybody there who's not a Disney baby. Meaning, we all love Disney. So if you're looking for a sure fun, money worthy and a place for your entire family, then this is definitely a place to list down your itinerary.

Photo by: Gail Nicolas
Don't forget to have fun when taking pictures.
Instead of doing the usual smile and stand,
enjoy and jump! It gives you almost that exciting feeling if you see
it again as you reminisce thru your Disney memorabilia.

Location: Penny's Bay, Lantau Island

Admission  for the single day pass:

a. Child (Ages 3 to 11) = HK$355
 * 3 and below can come in for FREE
b. General Admission (Ages 12 to 64) = HK$499
c. Senior (Ages 65 and above) = HK100

You may know more regarding the theme park's on-season shows, other discount prices and hotel packages thru their website: https://www.hongkongdisneyland.com . Based on experience, it's advisable to get a 2-day pass since the park had expanded greatly in terms of location that one day is not enough to cover everything there is worthy to see. I also would like to share to you that once the park opens, you may go straight to walking the farthest since for sure, the people would be going firstly to what's available in front of them but just to give out a useful information, every land starts operating altogether. So, line up for the rides that are located at the farthest end because for sure, it's not that packed yet.

2. NGONG PING CABLE CAR RIDE TO THE BIG BUDDHA

After riding the cable car,
here's a good spot to take pictures for
your own souvenir.

Ngong Ping Cable Car Ride was called Tung Chung Cable Car Project originally. This project was made to enhance the Tung Chung area as a tourist spot for the Big Buddha had gained fame amongst tourists as well did the Tung Chung Citygate Outlet Mall. The branding Ngong Ping 360 had changed it to its current name and since then, commercial establishments and shops had metastasised at the cable ride stops. I love how Starbucks situates the alley where a lot of shows happen depending on the season. To get abreast with what shows they have, go for their suggested itinerary by visiting their website, http://www.np360.com.hk .

Location: Lantau Island
(It is pretty much accessible to any mode of transportation. If you are interested to see your options as to what's the best route to take, click here.)

Admission for the single day pass:

Round-trip *Standard Cabin for:

ADULTS = HK$165
CHILDREN (3-11) = HK$85
SENIORS (65+) = HK$115

Round-trip **Crystal Cabin for:

ADULTS = HK$255
CHILDREN (3-11) = HK$175
SENIORS (65+) = HK$205

*Standard Cabin is big enough to share with other people. If there are 4 of you, most likely, you'll be sharing with one more person or 2 during the trip. **Crystal Cabin is much pricey because the entire cabin is made up of crystal glass that makes you see everything even the floor that you're stepping on to. So, it's going to give you a more memorable experience of the cable car ride. In addition, you can also go for a Private Cabin which I strongly suggest if there's enough people to go, by all means go for this one.

So, in Lantau Island alone, there are quite a lot to experience already. From Hong Kong Disneyland, to riding the cable car and shopping gallantly at the City Gate outlets, it's an assured one hell of a trip if you're going to allot 3 days and 2 nights around this area. To top it all off, there are mini jewels here and there in terms of sceneries, restaurants and beaches to lounge in. There's Discovery Bay that holds a beach, a plaza and is surrounded with cocktail bars and western restaurants. If you catch it on time, Dragon Boat Races are held here every Summer too. And cheap siu mei and pearl milk tea stalls, both Hong Kong favourites, are sold around Tung Chung area. To get hold of a number of list of affordable yet satisfying Hong Kong treats, click here.

3. LAN KWAI FONG

It's amazing to see a city come MORE alive starting from the happy hours of 5 to 10 (and then God knows up until when after that). As the busy working people swarm Lan Kwai Fong slowly for either its good wine and dine restaus, live band music or just for a street party, you would see how diverse Hong Kong had become.

Now, I should warn the lovers of heels out there. Lan Kwai Fong streets are quite a challenge because it goes uphill and may get you tired in no time if you plan to start your night early.

Hong Kong locals and tourists alike hail happy hours. Drinks could be pricey depending on which bar you want to hang around in. TIVO, ALCHEMY, DRAGON-I, SOLAS, MARLIN'S, HARD ROCK CAFE, SEVVA, RED BAR, AQUA, HONI HONI and LE BUDOIR are some of the clubs that are popular nowadays.

Now, don't expect an easy way of parking in the area. It's best to just take a cab to finish the night off. That's the best piece of advice I can give you. Of course there's always an option of taking the bus or the last trip via train. With that being laid out there, it's safe to have around HK$300 up to bring with you to party all the way.

Central, also, is accessible by ferries. If you have time, include AQUA LUNA in your itinerary. Hong Kong's harbour is one of the most sought after by a lot of traders because of its advantage in being open to navigating shipping goods. Hong Kong maximises the use of this harbour by opening it to tourists as well with its Symphony of Lights Show and surrounding it with its very own walk of fame patterned after Hollywood's, the Avenue of Stars! Aqua Luna in Cantonese is called, Cheung Po Tsai, meaning a Chinese junk operating in Victoria Harbour. To know some prices of the trips to and fro the district nearest you, check their website out.

Avenue of Stars

4. JUMBO FLOATING RESTAURANT

One of the many great things I love doing is eating good food, enjoying a very good view, sharing the experience with good company. I am enlisting this to be included in anybody's itinerary because it's truly something that you should not let pass.

I experienced brunch in the Jumbo Floating Restaurant and we had overflowing wine in between. It felt like "THE" best brunch I've ever had! The crab legs were scrumptiously sweet, the lamb shack was so melting in my mouth and their fried rice is not that simple. It got the works! Those specially mentioned is not even a third of how incredible the food is in this place.

Now, I suggest for you to make reservations at least a day before for it's really crowded during lunch and dinner time. The boat can hold as much as 2300 people but they are pretty much in demand. Celebrities love dining here too. They actually have a gallery of the famous people that had visited this huge floating restaurant making it the only one there is in the world.

Their menu has a wide array of dishes but they had made a name with their seafood dishes. There are over 100 dishes to choose from that I suggest you go for the Top Deck Brunch! They honour discounts from certain credit cards and VIP cards and if you go HK$600 and over worth of your dining experience, single receipt, you can reimburse your taxi fare by presenting your taxi fare receipt. Please do inquire from any of the staff or server regarding this information to be sure.

Location: Sham Wan Pier Drive, Wong Chuk Hang, Aberdeen

*You actually would be needing to ride a boat to reach the restaurant. It's part of the experience.

Contact details/website: 2553 9111, http://www.jumbokingdom.com

Now, how to get here...

From Hong Kong/Central Station, go to the Exchange Square Terminus where you can take Bus 70 to Aberdeen. Upon reaching Aberdeen Terminus, use the pedestrian tunnel to cross the highway. Turn right and walk towards the pier where free ferries await. The bus fare costs around HK$6.00. You can take the cab from Central too so there are options that you can consider. Whichever works best for you or your friends is highly recommended. 

5. MACAO ESCAPE

A lot of tourists see to it that they get to visit Macau whenever going to Hong Kong because they want to see some shows/concerts, they want to do bungee jumping, they want to visit the church ruins and of course, it's VEGAS on steroids. It is 5 times as big as Vegas and has 10 times more with its hotel rooms. It is the only place in China where gambling is legal.

1. Macau is a small peninsula in mainland China, across the Pearl River Delta from Hong Kong. A Portuguese overseas territory until 1999, it reflects a mix of Portuguese and Chinese influences. Its giant casinos and extravagant malls have earned it the nickname, the "Las Vegas of Asia." One of its more striking landmarks is 338m-high Macau Tower, with sweeping city views.

If you are coming from Hong Kong, check out the Cotai terminal. TurboJets are there to bring you straight to Macau within an hour. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, it's better to give yourself enough time allowance because so many people are coming back and forth. Trips happen every 30 minutes at least.

When visiting Macao, budget that you should have at hand should be at least HK$500 and up. 

Don't miss on paying the Venetian Macao a visit to try the Gondola experience, seeing the church ruins and antique shops in the city and of course, the infamous House of Dancing Water in City of Dreams.

Venetian holds a lot of visitors per year. So don't hesitate on making a booking before hand.

VENETIAN MACAO ROOM RATES start at a very affordable HK$1,328++, the best price that offers free WIFI. Extra 30% off if you book 14 days before and 20% off if you book 7 days before.

Contact Details:
https://www.venetianmacao.com - website
Hotline: +853-2882-8888

HOUSE OF DANCING WATER TICKETING starts at HK$580. They have special discount for children, senior citizens, students and Macau residents provided you are able to show your ID as proof. Click here if you want more detailed pricing and seating options.

atop the free-entry observation deck
of The Peak Galleria

6. VICTORIA PEAK

Location: Mid Levels, Hong Kong

This may not be much of a good shot in terms of showing what the peak could offer. We went in a
November and it seemed like it was too humid making the view of the background from the camera a little bit hazy. But this I have to say, if you didn't visit Victoria Peak when you come to Hong Kong, then it seems like you didn't come at all.

According to WIKIPEDIA, the Victoria Peak is a mountain in the western half of the Hong Kong Island. It is also known as Mt. Austin but is mostly known by the locals as "The Peak". It doesn't end in the souvenir shops, restaurants and the great view, Maddam Tussaud's is another place to check out. The original Madam Tussaud's museum, located in London, had inspired this to be as extravagant to cater to every tourist's hunger for anything extraordinary. This museum isn't just for those who are into arts but also to those who is quite knowledgeable in history and of famous and influential people.

How to get to Victoria Peak? You can, number 1, take the boring cab (excuse my sarcasm...) or you can have, number 2, a virtual tour of the mountain via the historical Peak Tram.

Located at Lower Terminus, The PEAK TRAM Historical Gallery is a way of paying tribute to The Peak Tram,
its heritage and the history of Hong Kong. Since 1888, The Peak Tram has served Hong Kong, quietly witnessing
120 years of the city's changes. The Gallery brings back many memories for local visitors and
gives overseas visitors a glimpse of how the Pearl of the Orient has come to shine.

Source: http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/see-do/highlight-attractions/top-10/the-peak.jsp3ixzz3hdh8wkoZ

Reach the PEAK TRAM by taking Bus 15C from the lay-by outside the Central Pier, or walk from the Central Station then take Exit J2.

Number 3, take the Bus 15 from Exchange Square bus terminus (near MTR Hong Kong, Exit D)
Number 4, take the Minibus 1 from MTR Hong Kong Station public transport interchange.

Peak Tram Ticket Prices: (Prices effective from January 1, 2015)

Adult - Return: HK$40
             Single: HK$28

Children & Seniors (65 and above) - Return: HK$18
                                                            Single: HK$11

Peak Tram Operating hours: 7am-12mn (Mondays-Sundays, incluing Public Holidays)
Frequency: Departs every 10-15 minutes
Contact Details: +852-2522-0922 (Tel)
Email: info@thepeak.com.hk


MADAMME TUSSAUD'S

* Do you want to be able to train like Ip Man?

* Try how Marilyn Monroe's skirt got blown up.

* Walk the ramp with famous models.

* Be able to have a portrait with Leonardo Da Vinci and Van Gough?

* Would you want to transform yourself into Wolverine's ally and possess your own invincible claws?

Well, you can all make this happen as you walk thru Madamme Tussaud's Wax Museum right on Victoria's Peak. Hit two birds with one stone by making your trip up the mountain more memorable. This wax museum is based on the original one in London. Packed along with Asian celebrities, Madamme Tussaud's is worthy to experience if you're a first timer in the Peak.

Operating hours: Open daily from 10am until 10pm
Admission tickets: Adult - HK$245
                               Child (3-11) & Seniors (65 and above) - HK$175

*It's advisable to book your tickets online and have a major discount if you book ahead as an early bird.

7. HONG KONG'S LOVELY SPOTS

taken during a colleague's birthday party

Hong Kong holds an array of nice parks, areas, exhibits, malls and galleries which are worth the space in your android. Let me start off with the Tsing Ma Bridge.

The Tsing Ma Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in the whole world that can both hold rail and road traffic. I get to pass thru it twice a day, every working day. This bridge connects the Lantau Island (my working place is situated here) to the rest of Hong Kong. So basically, Tsing Ma Bridge serves me just right. Not to mention, it gives me a breathtaking view each time, day or night, it's beautiful. And the more I appreciated this place when I got to see it from Park Island.

Whenever I see Park Island, "it is my dream place to live in in Hong Kong", I say. But for now, I can't so all I can do is admire the place. It's easy to go down here anyway. Most especially during Summer as the beach is open to public I recall.

So, just hit Tsing Yi Station via MTR. Take Exit A1 and then take a mini bus 308M or from there, you can access Park Island via taxi too. Whenever I see this place, I easily compare it to Discovery Bay because they're both pretty and somehow owns that serene atmosphere but then I remember how inaccessible Dbay is by cab and then it makes it a no contest from there.

Noah's Ark is another tourist attraction that you may see while you're in Park Island. It had become an iconic place that stands up for Ma Wan's mission in fostering family values, love, social harmony and care for the environment.

Parents, learning institutions, NGO's, religious groups and businesses are encouraged to bring their kids, staff and instructors here to propagate social awareness early on in terms of inflicting love for self and others, love for the environment and love for life itself. The park has a an Ark Expo, Ark Garden, Adventureland, Ark Life Education House and a Treasure House. So there's a lot of things to do and see.

Operating hours: Open daily from 9:45am until 5:30pm

Admission Tickets: General - HK$168

              Child (3-11) and Senior (65 above) ticket: HK$138

* If you'll purchase your ticket online, you can get discounts.

* Religious groups, NGO's and schools may contact Noah's Ark Mission Development Team at (852) 3411 8714 or email to: mission@noahsark.com.hk

* Travel agents may contact Noah's Ark sales team at (852) 3411 8700 or email to sales@noahsark.com.hk

the fabulous Park Island

As you take the MTR and goes to an exchange transit like Tsim Sha Tsui, it extends to different establishments and the most accessible that I find is K11. It has a posh feel with its classy interior and classic art pieces on display. It extends to an alley that is decorated depending on the season. Once I passed by it in December and they had put up a mini kaleidoscope world. This mall has luxurious shops that every big spender would never have a problem getting magnetised to.

This photo is my most favourite of all because it is made up of toasted bread. 

K11 Mall is a shopping mall in Hong Kong located in the Masterpiece, honed by New World Development and was completed in December of 2009. It is claimed to be the first "Art Mall" in the world. Hyatt Regency, one of the most known prestigious hotels, which sits atop one of its floors (K11 got 6 floors) is the cherry on top of the ice cream. 

Location: 18 Hanoi Road

Operating hours: Open daily from 10am-10pm

How to access via MTR: Take TST Exits D1, D2, G and N1

Contact details: (852) 3118 8070

Official website: http://www.k11concepts.com/en/

1881 Heritage should not be missed as well. It got seasonal decors that are good for photo ops and it needs little photoshoppin'! After shopping in Tsim Sha Tsui, head to this scenic area where you can sit and just get mesmerised with its Victorian era appeal. 1881 is a real Hong Kong experience. Going there is for free, taking photos is for free, sight seeing is for free and yet you get hold of a true historic place for these are the headquarters of the Hong Kong Marine Police from 1800s 'til 1996. They have preserved the place but had embraced transformation by putting up designer shops, fine dining restaurants, a heritage hotel and an exhibition hall. This is actually across the Avenue of the Stars so, you can visit these all at the same time in a day.

There are a lot more to learn about how historic this place is as you visit their website. 

Location: 2A, Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon

Website: http://www.1881heritage.com

Contact details: (852) 2926-8000

How to get there: Take the MTR, go down at TST and then take Exit E, walk towards Salisbury road, turn right then take subway (pedestrian tunnel) next to YMCA to 1881 Heritage.

8. OCEAN PARK

Given, Ocean Park is one of Hong Kong's oldest attractions. I remember it standing there since the first time I visited Hong Kong way back 1994. Up until now, it doesn't fail to bring excitement each time. My husband still couldn't deal with some of its suspense rides but visiting here is still entertaining. Most of its attractions cater to the pumping adrenalin of the young adults but now, I'm thinking of bringing my daughter for her to get acquainted with the sea world. They are known for their huge aquariums and as time went on, it served as an attraction to many families, extending fun to different age groups. They have cable cars too as it connects two mountains building the entire park.

Admission and operating hours could be accessed and booked by clicking here. 

Location: Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Island

Contact details: (852) 3923-2323

Website: www.oceanpark.com.hk

How to get there: Take the Bus 629 from Central Pier 7 or from MTR Admiralty Station, take Exit B and alight at the park

The park is composed of the following attractions:

1. Adventures in Australia

2. Shark Mystique

3. Polar Adventure

4. Old Hong Kong

5. Thrillmountain

6. Rainforest

7. Aquacity

8. Amazing Asian Animals

Take your pick and hopefully, you can finish the whole of it. This advice may be unsolicited but trust me, you will need to at least be in your most comfortable shoes in visiting Ocean Park.

9. SAI KUNG

Hong Kong makes sure that all its natural resources are well protected. That protection extends up to its rich marine life and remote areas. Sai Kung is considered as the "backyard of Hong Kong". That being said, it's kept tidy and untouched because of its remote location. Hence, it had become an attraction amongst adventure seekers and divers alike to experience its diverse marine life.

Junk Boat Trips are "it" in Hong Kong most especially during the Summer season. For many adventurers, Sai Kung is a paradise. Besides swimming, kayaking, snorkelling and doing other fun water activities, Sai Kung is also a good place to hike and had been enjoyed by a lot due to junk boat trips that took voyage.

I, personally was a fan of junk boat trips. Some of the volcanic rock formations from 140 million years ago had enveloped its coastline with the perfect venue for having a photo shoot for your own remembrance and of course, for fun. Its waters aren't too salty and no harmful corals underneath so it's really nice to swim in its beaches. Summer maybe a little tricky though because this season in Hong Kong is also the rainy season. Junk boats would have to go back to Sai Kung Pier when this happens and will stop operation. It's safe unless you choose not to... if you know you're drunk, don't swim from the junk boat to the beach. YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS ADVICE SERIOUSLY.

Junk boats fee depend on how many are onboard. Three years ago, prices start from HK$200/person up excluding drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages). When you say junk, don't expect that it's a dirty boat, it's actually presentable enough for you to have a good time and usually, they have karaoke set up inside. So, this usually affects the price but overall, the experience is worth it.

As the sun sets, Sai Kung got restaurants that are ready to impress you with fresh seafood. Don't hesitate to take your time in having dinner with some friends and colleagues to complete your Sai Kung trip. A more detailed booking for different kinds of yachts, boats and Sai Kung packages may be checked out here.

How to get to Sai Kung pier: 

This is from http://hongkongextras.com

GETTING TO SAI KUNG

(i) MTR to Choi Hung MTR Station then from station exit C2 take Green Minibus 1A (24 hour service approx every 3-5 mins – journey time about 25 mins) to Sai Kung Minibus Station (next to the promenade). KMB Bus 92 (see below), also stops outside exit C2 of Choi Hung MTR Station.

The green minibus stop for Sai Kung is located about 50-metres to the left, on reaching street level from exit C2 of Choi Hung MTR Station

KMB Bus 92 to Sai Kung, which starts at Diamond Hill Station (see below), also passes Choi Hung Station, where the bus stop is located about 50-metres to the right, on reaching street level from station exit C2

(ii) MTR to Diamond Hill MTR Station then KMB bus service 92 (approx every 12/20 mins – journey time about 40 mins) to Sai Kung Bus Terminus (next to promenade).

(iii) MTR to Tseung Kwan O MTR Station or Tiu Keng Leng MTR Station, then from the bus terminus at either of these stations, take NWFB bus service 792M (every 20 mins – journey time approx 40 mins) to Sai Kung Bus Terminus (next to the promenade).

(iv) if travelling from other parts of the New Territories KMB BUS SERVICE 299X from Sha Tin Central Bus Terminus (under New Town Plaza and Sha Tin MTR Station) via Ma On Shan Town Centre to Sai Kung Bus Terminus may be useful. Buses operate at about 10 minute frequency and the journey takes about 35 minutes. The journey includes a scenic stretch above the shores of Three Fathoms Cove and below the peaks of Ma On Shan Country Park.

Red Minibus from Mong Kok - a 24 hour frequent red minibus service operates between Dundas Street, Mong Kok and Wai Man Road Minibus Terminus, adjacent to Sai Kung Waterfront Park. The fare at January 2015 was HK$16 and Octopus Card is accepted on most minibuses operating this route.

A 24-hour red minibus service operates between Dundas Street, Mong Kok and Sai Kung

10. LADIES MARKET

A little bit of shopping won't hurt. In fact, if you reach the ladies market in Mong Kok, it's impossible for you to shop just a "little". Kidding aside, if you plan to buy souvenirs like I LOVE HK T-SHIRTS, replicas of Hong Kong artifacts and Hong Kong signages, this is the place to be.

You will be challenged with your Cantonese and bargaining skills as you go thru the entire street.

*Tip: Try walking a little as they give you the price pretending not to be interested and that the price doesn't work for you. They'll start to awkwardly pull and ask you discreetly, "how much?" or "give me good price." That's when you bargain from half the original price the vendor gives you. Trust me, at one point, they'll give in to a low unexpected price.

The best time to check out the Ladies Market is at night. It gets pretty crowded late in the afternoon onwards and closes around midnight. During the weekends and holiday season, expect a large number of people swarming to the Ladies Market. Goods prices start from as low as HK$15 and up.

Location: Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon

How to get there? Simply take the MTR Red Line, go down to Mong Kok then take Exit E2. Then walk along Nelson Street passing 2 blocks.

Now on the other hand, there's a 15 storey level mall if you take Exit E1. It leads you to the Langham Mall.

Langham Mall 

Now you see, it owns 2 large scale escalators, measuring 83 meters high. The building is made up of gargantuan rock facade and the Happy Man stands affront which was sculpted by Larry Bell, making it a monumental landmark of Mong Kok. This mall is 15-storey high, with 2 basement levels, holds 665 hotel rooms and a carpark with 250 parking spaces. If you have extra time from shopping in the Ladies Market, sit for lunch or have a quick coffee break at this place. They have a huge H&M, Ralph Lauren, an alley of the luxurious make up brands and they have a serene spa upstairs catering to both the mall spectators and hotel residents.

Location: 555 Shanghai St., Mong Kok
Contact Details: 3552 3388
Website: http://www.langhamplace.com.hk


All prices, fees and discounts hereby shared in this post is subject to change based on each featured attraction's policies and discretion. Writer should not be accounted for any discrepancies as these may get affected economically.

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