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EDITORIAL

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Junior EditorShirley [email protected]: itshirleyz

ART

Art DirectorJoe [email protected]

VIDEO

VideographerSeason [email protected]

ONLINE

WeChat/Web OperatorJen Liang [email protected]

CONTRIBUTORS

Isadora BusatoCharlene FuAnthony Permaye Stephan BartonSabrina ChuIan Scarth Nebojsa Novakovic

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COMMERCIAL

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Business DeveloperPao [email protected]

CLUBS

HERE! Ping Pong ClubStephane Stadler

HERE! Book ClubIan Scarth

HERE! Hiking ClubMao Mao ` Cheursa Chen

INTERNS

Sophie Berger

02 HERE! December 2020

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ADVISORY

AccountingCathy Zhang

VOL. 185

What’s your

vision of Dongguan in 2030?

“I hope the area will be a source of

new knowledge and discoveries

born from collaboration.”

“Transportation will become very convenient and

there will be better subway facilities.”

HEREDG.COM December 2020 03

16-21

THE FUTUREIS BRIGHTERTHAN 2020

COVER STORY

SOCIAL04 Readers’ Thoughts | To the Point

COMMUNITY06 Community Connections

07 Adopt Don’t Shop | Your Point of View08 Neighborhood Scoop | Try It Out

09 Dongguan Scoop | City Fact

CULTURE10 Abstract Views 11 That’s My Jam

12 What’s the Deal With... 14 Language Chameleon15 Screen Time | DG KOLs 22-29 Megapixels

48 What’s Your Story?

FAMILY30 Cross Cultural

32 Educator’s Voice | Parent’s Voice

DINE&DRINK34 Billy in the Kitchen 35 Dinner is Served

36 Chinese Cuisine37 The Night Spot

GUIDE38-39 DG City Map

40 Dongcheng Map | DG County Map41-45 DG Listings

BUSINESS46-47 Know How

CONTENTS

Jam Out With The Beasts of Burden

Uncover The AcademicPressure of Chinese Education

Enjoy All Day Breakfast Meals At Y+

11

12

39


Follow us on Facebook or WeChat to answer our monthly question. Leave a comment, and if it is interesting enough we might even publish it.

Marrissa Deng: I don’t know why Humen doesn’t have a prosperous future with it’s high speed train station [in response to Humen town not being an option on the survey].

Which Area in Dongguan Has the Brightest Future?

From Our Followers On Social Media

Readers’THOUGHTS

Songshan Lake 松山湖

Nancheng 南城

Binhai Bay 滨海湾

Houjie 厚街

41%

41%

7%

11%

Find TheFAKE AD

Find the fake ad in this edition and send the answer with your name to [email protected] or by WeChat to zivglikman.

One participant will be randomly selected and win two bottles of Almifer Wine (Almifer White and Almifer Red Reserve) worth 510 RMB.

Jef O’Riley found the fake ad on page 47 last month: Professional Child Support Mentors For Hire, winning two bottles of Almifer Wine (Almifer White and Almifer Red Reserve) worth 510 RMB.

I arrived in Dongguan on September 11, 2003. 17 years later, I could honestly have never imagined how much more developed the city has become. If I knew then what I know now, I would have invested in some local apartments, and life would be blissful.

Nevertheless, Dongguan has been growing steadily in the last three decades. In city planning terms, most of the prominent pieces of land have already been taken and developed. Public transportation plans are somewhat finalized, and the execution is underway. In one decade from now, we will be able to travel to Shenzhen or Guangzhou in about 10 minutes. Isn’t that amazing?

Earlier this year, the final plan of the new Nancheng CBD was finally approved, and the construction work has already started. Once done, in five to 10 years, the development will cement Nancheng as the most lucrative district for both offices and residential. Think about it... our very own mini-Manhattan.

Songshan Lake will continue to develop slowly but surely. It’s already a very attractive living area due to its open spaces and beautiful nature, as well as one of the leading high-tech centers of the Greater Bay Area.

The third, and perhaps most impressive, anticipated hotspot of Dongguan is Binhai Bay. This massive development will eventually form the city of the future. It lies between Chang’an and Humen and consists of three main areas that are supposed to be home to a half-million people once completed in 2035.

Dongguan’s bright future can’t be denied. Since I know now what I didn’t know then, maybe it’s not too late to buy an apartment here.

A City On The Rise

Editor-in-Chief

TO THE POINT


Recently, Elevate Outdoors has brought the up-and-coming Japanese sport, Dodgebee (a combination of dodgeball and frisbee), to the Dongguan community; the Elevate group is part of the CDBL (China DodgeBee League) and have a group of trained coaches and referees. With the objective of taking out the opponents with a soft frisbee instead of a dodgeball, each game is four minutes with seven people per team.

Weekly pick-up games will begin in December at Nancheng SoccerWorld. Throwing, catching and passing are essential skills to learn as well as dodging the frisbee. Anyone above the age of 15 is welcome to join, whether he/she is a beginner or advanced player. To join the pick-up games, it is 25 RMB per person with split field costs. For players who want to develop their competitive edge, they can join the eight teams at a tournament on December 19.

DODGEBEEIN DONGGUAN

COMMUNITY

Take your family out for a two-day hiking and camping experience from December 26 to December 27.

The HERE! Hiking Club will venture out into Luofu Mountain to explore the wilderness. In the evening, an American barbecue will be prepared as well as a campfire. The next day, however, introduces an archery competition and a CS live action battle. Expect a field of energetic campers geared up and ready to take out the opposing team.

Camping

Join the HERE! Book Club for a great opportunity to meet fellow bookworms. Last month, the club members met at Eryu Bookstore to share their thoughts on the selected book, “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Victor Frankl in a lively discussion.

The group has expanded quickly with 70 members in total, and new members are always welcome to join.

Book Club

Head over to the DG Mall to celebrate Starbucks Reserve’s second anniversary on December 20, from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Professional coffee brewers will be sharing coffee knowledge and experience with the audience. Throughout the event, engage in a 2021 goal setting exercise, interactive games and a lucky draw. A singing performance by Marielle Bueno, who finished in third place at the 2020 Sing! China competition will wrap up the pleasant evening.

Celebrate Coffee

HERE! Community brings fun and engaging activities to Dongguan. To get connected with any of these groups, scan the QR Code.

A 10-year-old border collie is looking for a loving home. Due to circumstances beyond the family’s control, they need to find a new home for him. He’s loving, playful and energetic. He’s very healthy and had all his shots. He’ll quickly become your best and most loyal friend.

Contact WeChat ID zivglikman for more information about dogs and cats in need of a loving home!

The striking red curves of Hongfu Bridge stand out around its muted surrounding as if it is showing off its structural beauty. This serene picture, taken by Hao Zhang, displays the city’s subtle charms. The bridge in Nancheng hovers over the Dongguan canal, the longest artificial river totaling 103 km in Guangdong Province.

This space features Dongguan photos from Instagram. For a chance to get your photo published, tag #heredg on your Instagram post.

YOUR POINTOF VIEW

ADOPTDON’T SHOP



NEIGHBORHOODSCOOP

The fifty-fifty raffle hosted by the QSI Beta Club is an opportunity to support an important cause and test your luck. While the winner of the raffle receives half of the total profits, the other half will be donated to Treasures of Hope and benefit the Si’an leprosy village. Starting on December 4, everyone can participate in the raffle event.

The QSI Beta Club, which is a well-known community service organization, is dedicated to raising 20,000 RMB at the end of this raffle event. In order to make it appealing to participants, the club decided to adopt a lottery-inspired concept: the hook of the fifty-fifty raffle is to increase your chances of winning by buying more tickets.

The more tickets you buy, the more entries you get! For those interested to buy a ticket, the cost is 100 RMB per ticket. To buy a ticket, contact a QSI Beta Club member or advisor Amanda Denney at [email protected]. A winner will be announced on December 11 and receive the reward in cash. If you win, you will be notified via WeChat or email according to the registered information.

Win Big at QSI Beta Club Raffle

Before you start marking your 2021 calendar, take a moment to review China’s official holiday schedule, posted on November 25 from the “Circular of the General Office of the State Council about the Public Holiday Arrangement for 2021.”

With New Year just around the corner, note the holiday on January 1 to 3, from

Friday to Sunday. Plan a one-week domestic trip during Spring Festival, which falls between February 11 to 17. However, to offset the long Spring Festival break, February 7 and February 20 are officially workdays. Qingming Festival (Tomb Sweeping Day) is a three-day break from April 3 to 5. From May 1 to 5, stay home and relax on Labor Day. The adjusted working days are April 25 and May 8.

Dragon Boat Festival is up next from June 12 to 14, so remember to catch up on any local Dragon Boat festivities. On September 19 to 21, eat some mooncakes with your family and friends to celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival. Don’t forget to go to your office on Saturday, September 18. Lastly, National Day is on October 1 to 7, with adjusted working days on September 26 and October 9.

Plan Your 2021 Holidays

If you are keen on improving your dance moves, look no further. Lulu Dance Project offers a wide range of classes each month, including salsa, bachata, kizomba, private classes and irregular masters class.

In a short amount of time, Lulu will help you elevate your self-confidence, make friends with fellow classmates, and improve your dancing and social skills. At Lulu, the instructors are focused on creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere for all dancers, from experienced to beginners. In special one-on-one classes for ladystyling, the instructor will teach ladies posture, hand and head movements, techniques and more. For the highly anticipated masters classes, Lulu will invite some famous and professional instructors to lead the class. Besides the classes, Lulu hosts small dance parties twice per month and large dance events four times per year.

Check the monthly schedule and sign up for a Latin dance class with Lulu Dance Project!

Address: 3rd floor, Moonbay Plaza, Dongcheng district, Aladdin Art School / 东城区金月湾广场，3楼

Latin Dancing with Lulu

Try itOUT

More than 50 academicians from the Greater Bay Area gathered in Dongguan on November 3 for the 2020 Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Academician Summit and the 6th Guangdong Academician Federation Annual Summit.

With support from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Chinese Academy of Engineering, the People’s Government of the Guangdong Province, the Federation of Guangdong Academicians and the People’s Government of Dongguan City, the summit aimed to bring together the best of technology and strategy to contribute to developing industries. It also served as a chance for organizations and academicians like the Federation of Guangdong Academicians and Dongguan University of Technology to connect for future cooperation projects. Academicians discussed topics such as AI health, anti-epidemic measures, significant scientific discoveries and new medical research during the day.

An Academician Summit

On November 1, the 11th Dongguan Taiwan Trade Fair concluded its four-day event with total agreements reaching around 3.08 billion RMB. The fair received an upgrade and became more of a professional exhibition this year, causing it to reach a national expo level. This transformation also helped the fair model its theme of “Gathering Strength

in the Greater Bay Area, Exploring New Business Opportunities.” Like previous years, the trade fair’s central focus and purpose are for Taiwanese and Chinese mainland businesses to mingle and form deals.

Despite being held in Dongguan, Taiwanese businesses claimed the majority at the fair as there were over 360 of them. Most of these Taiwanese businesses, about 70% of them, are companies that work with electronics and technology. Some of the most cutting-edge technology from Taiwan can be found at the Dongguan Taiwan Trade Fair, such as 5G and AI.

On November 21, the Dongguan Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Dongguan CDC) announced traces of the COVID-19 virus found within two packaged samples of imported frozen food. The Dongguan CDC and Shatian Town officials immediately attempted to mitigate the situation by implementing emergency response methods,

such as sealing the virus-infected foods and placing the people who had come in contact with the food in quarantine. A total of 852 frozen food samples have also been collected and were tested negative for COVID-19. The Dongguan CDC stated that none of the affected food had made it out into the market due to the immediate responses to the issue. The Dongguan CDC strongly encourages everyone to be wearing their masks, social distancing, and be careful when handling frozen goods by using protective gloves.

Making Deals At The Trade Fair

COVID-19 Found In Packaged Food

CityFACT

In the center of Dongguan Culture Square erects a glittering sculpture consisting of two flying phoenix birds. Forged by stainless steel and covered in rolled gold, the 14-meter-tall sculpture was built 15 years ago by the city government in honor of one of Dongguan’s famed eight scenes—the Phoenix Terrace.

An old legend stated that there were special kinds of herbs that attracted phoenix birds lingering in the area. In Song Dynasty, a Taoism temple and a pagoda were constructed there; scholars would have their names inscribed on a stone monument. Gradually, it started to gain a reputation. In Ming Dynasty, a party of enthusiastic scholars formed a “Phoenix Poem Club” at the Phoenix Terrace, where they came to write, chant and share poems.

Although the terrace, temple and pagoda no longer exist after the Cultural Revolution, the place still represents Dongguan’s culture and literature. That’s why the Guancheng Culture Center, the Children’s Palace and the phoenix sculpture were built nearby the former site to continue the Phoenix Terrace’s legacy.

DONGGUANSCOOP

A Time Traveling Phoenix



f you saw an artist painting a giant canvas at the Craft Beer Festival a few weeks ago, you’ve already gotten a glimpse of Esteban Camacho,

Dongguan’s resident muralist.

Esteban is currently employed as a teacher at Tungwah Wenzel International School in Songshan Lake, but he is most well-known for his commissioned artwork on the streets. Esteban began creating murals in his early 20s, when he first made a mural with middle school students.

Esteban’s murals are always painted with permission from the wall owner and establishes a sense of purpose. As an artist who researches before starting a project, Esteban focuses on figuring out what image would connect well with the local culture. In his words, murals that he paints must be “relevant to the community and also personal to the place.” Because of this tedious research process, Esteban’s most significant mural projects have taken him several months to plan.

Born a Costa Rican, Esteban grew up around more city buildings than nature. However, having lived and worked at a university in Oregon, he can say with certainty that “nature is the maximum of happiness and freedom.” Because of this, many of Esteban’s murals are images of colorful nature. Through his work, Esteban hopes to

bring fresh, green ideas to the walls and the minds of city-dwellers. After all, as he says to himself, “if we don’t know about them, we can’t help them.”

In the actual process of creating a mural in the city, Esteban relies on his community of local artists to find new “canvases” and customers. He also occasionally calls together a group of artists for help. For him, this is a great way to meet local artists and bond with his students.

As a person, Esteban is proud that he has not constantly been pushing himself but has also managed to gain the support of his family to become an artist. For him, art inspires life just as much as life inspires art. During his time building his artistic profile and reputation, Esteban worked on a construction site, did commercial painting and learned to cook. Over the years, he has learned to balance his life between being an artist and make a living.

He can remember a time when he spent six months trying and failing to win a big art competition early in his art career—a long wait that turned out to be worth the patience.

In the future, Esteban hopes to take on bigger projects: looking around the city, he sees a lot of potential for beautiful green murals. Now, all he needs is to find a developer interested in “something more than just development” and something that will contribute positively to the cityscape and the local populace.

Until the city is covered with colors from Esteban’s paintbrushes, keep an eye out for him and his work at the Tungwah Wenzel International School in Songshan Lake and the Guangdong Art Museum cafe.

ABSTRACTVIEWS

Where you see a skyscraper, Esteban Camacho can see a canvas. The Dongguan-based Costa Rican artist creates murals to bring the city, the people and nature together.

By Sabrina Chu

Big Canvas,Big Dreams

Through his work, Esteban hopes to bring fresh, green ideas to the walls and the minds of city-dwellers.

f you’ve been roaming around night spots like Holly’s Bar and Restaurant and Murray’s Irish Pub on any Friday or Saturday night, you’ve probably

seen all four members of The Beasts of Burden band hanging out together.

The band consists of four members: Arthur the lead singer and guitarist, Bernardo the drummer, Rafael the bassist, and Mike the keyboardist. Right off the bat, this group’s chemistry is undeniable. Having all been good friends before forming the band, the group eventually came together for jam sessions and sometimes even performed for an audience.

Bernardo explained that the band’s name comes from the Rolling Stones song, “Beast of Burden.” However, the word “Beasts” is pluralized because “well, there’s more than one of us.” The band has a fitting rock name since the Beasts of Burden mainly perform rock ‘n’ roll songs. Aside from playing some classics from bands such as AC/DC, Arthur also composes original rock music for the band. After writing the lyrics, he collaborates with the rest of the band members to complete the song.

On Friday, November 20, the band performed some of their original songs in front of a bustling crowd at Murray’s Irish Bar. The original songs they performed included Hallow, Don’t Bring Me Down, No Heaven and Kept You Safe. The Beasts of Burden also performed some classic crowd-pleasers such as Proud Mary. However, upon the audience’s lively insistence, the

band gave an unexpected performance of Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean and Queen’s Another One Bites the Dust. The audience members cheered enthusiastically whenever lead singer and guitarist Arthur gave an animated hop in the air before grooving into the next part of the song.

When asked to compare the music scene in China to their home countries, Arthur quickly pitched in: “At least in Brazil, the music scene is bigger but the genres are a lot different.” As for the music scene in the Philippines, Rafael mentioned that there “are a lot of different bands and lots of different genres, but mostly rock ‘n’ roll.”

As a result of moving to Brazil, Arthur will no longer be able to perform with the band. However, Mike mentioned that the band is looking for a new singer and guitarist in order to keep the Beasts of Burden alive. Despite looking for a new member, Rafael asserted that “We’re still a band; we’re like a family. When he comes back, we’ll just have…” His younger

brother Mike enthusiastically finished the sentence with “five members!” and a roar of laughter ensued from the other band members.

The most important piece of advice from the band to aspiring musicians is said by Mike, shaking his head and glancing at Rafael: “Don’t be late to practice.” The advice was echoed by Bernardo, “Don’t be late to practice, it’s very important,” and further thrown at Rafael by Arthur with laughter from the band, “Actually, come to practice, Rafael!”

Besides the teasing advice, Arthur also mentioned the importance of getting past your fears and showing your original music to the rest of the band. Rafael also stated that the best way to improve is by simply jamming together during practice.


THAT’S MY JAM

By Isadora Busato

Hey Guys, It’s Showtime!

On Friday, November 20, the band performed some of their original songs in front of a bustling crowd at Murray’s Irish Bar.

From a group of friends to forming a rock ‘n’ roll band, The Beasts of Burden made their official debut into the local musical scenery.

f you think that a bit of homework in high school is overwhelming, it’s nothing compared to the stressful and high-stake environment of many

Chinese schools that echo an “education above all” motto.

Not only are Chinese parents and school systems strict, there is also a valid reason behind the pressure-cooking atmosphere. The first reason is a given: many Chinese parents believe that a good education equals a bright future. However, the second reason is less well known to public perception. Parents push their kids to ace their academics and the infamous gaokao exam (the Chinese national university entrance exam), because they are afraid that their child might not get into a decent high school or university. If their child does not get into one of the elite schools, a great deal of embarrassment ensues. Due to this fear and shame, many Chinese parents value their child’s academic achievements first… instead of their individuality or personal growth in school.

In an effort to attain academic success, Chinese parents fill their kids’ after-school hours with study hall sessions, or they may hire a tutor to help their child improve on a specific course. As students are consumed with academics, this traps them inside the school bubble without any extra

time to explore out-of-school interests or experiences of their own. Chinese schools—being a system of abiding to a rigorous set of rules and strict authoritative figures—limit students’ freedom to explore their true passions or talents. By concentrating on ticking every academic box, Chinese parents and schools unknowingly suppress children’s creativity and their will to be unique.

While Chinese parents are firmly academic-based, Western parents have opted for another course of action. With an open-minded parenting structure, Western parents choose to value their child’s individuality. Since they understand the importance of integrating into real-world society after graduation, Western parents motivate their children to explore extracurriculars and pursue their own interests.

Although the line seems to be drawn on cultural differences, it also has to deal with academic assessments. When reviewing a student applicant, Western universities consider a wide range of aspects from real-world experiences to personal interests. The admissions team is eager to learn about a student’s wholesome life, especially outside school grounds.

These academic expectations differ in China, whereas the gaokao exam results are the only factor that determines a student’s acceptance into university. In order for the academic pressure to be reduced, the education system in China needs to reevaluate their university assessments. At the end of the day, perfect grades and a prestigious university do not promise an individual success in life.


WHAT’S THEDEAL WITH...

Following an “education above all” system, Chinese parents hold high academic expectations for their children... but does it limit their creativity and individuality?

By Shirley Wang

Chinese Parents’ Academic Pressure

By concentrating on ticking every academic box, Chinese parents and schools unknowingly suppress children’s creativity and their will to be unique.


LANGUAGE CHAMELEON

or language learners that encounter memorization difficulties, one solution is to familiarize yourself with your

external environment or secondary environment. Through this unique method, any student can effortlessly memorize a new set of vocabulary and quickly pick up a dedicated language.

To master your external surroundings, it is essential to select places that you go to daily besides your home.

Step 1 Select three places that you go to regularly. For instance, these places can be the gym, the supermarket or your office.

Step 2Now that you have selected your top three locations, grab a camera or phone and take five to 10 photos on the route between two destinations—for instance, from your home to your workplace. Try to take distinct photos and repeat this same routine with the other two locations.

Step 3Let’s say that you have now collected seven photos per route. Take a marker and write on those photographs. Label everything you can, from the pavement to the clouds, in your dedicated language. Use an online translator tool to find words you don’t know.

You should have around 15 to 25 words per photo. Some items may repeat themselves in your photos, but this allows you to memorize them faster.

Step 4 Pick a destination of your choice. Before embarking on this route, review all seven photos and the words you wrote on them. Read the words and write them down a few

times, so you are familiar with them.

Step 5Drive, walk or bike to the destination while calling out every item you see in your target language. Remember the photos and words you wrote on them; the more you go to these destinations, the more you will be able to recall the words on the route.

An adage states that “A picture is worth a thousand words,” and it is especially true for language learning. Teaching with photographs creates a direct, sensory connection between learners and their subjects, resulting in new levels of interest and attention. Emotions and visual information are processed in the same part of the human brain. Visual stimuli and emotional response are linked similarly, and these two generate what we call memories. Hence, powerful images create strong impressions in learners. As a result, photographs can serve as memory storage and can activate memory recall.

Remember: Study anywhere, get somewhere.

Anthony Permaye, or the Language Chameleon, is a certified neuro-language coach, who offers a unique learning foundation that teaches individuals how to learn any language anywhere.

By Anthony Permaye

Snap It Into Your Memory

Teaching with photographs creates a direct, sensory connection between learners and their subjects, resulting in new levels of interest and attention.

Learn an intriguing photo-taking method that will work wonderson any linguistic or visual learner.

SCREEN TIME

Before you decide on your next destination, check out Dianping and Koubei reviews and analyze your options.

By Charlene Fu

29-year-old Hopkins thrives in the ever-changing nature of Dongguan. Hopkins is a photographer and influencer who shares his photography and other lifestyle content online. On Weibo, Douyin and Little Red Book, viewers can find him by the name of Zou Haojian.

If Hopkins had to choose one animal to represent who he is as an entrepreneur, he would choose, surprisingly, a sheep. Why? Firstly, he was born in the year of the sheep. But Hopkins also thinks a sheep represents his hardworking but flexible work style.

Since his job requires a lot of interaction with people online, he finds flexibility a very essential skill. For Hopkins, the best part of his job is getting to know the plentiful supply of new and interesting individuals in Dongguan.

Outside online work, Hopkins also works with jewelry. Additionally, one of his proudest accomplishments so far has been founding SoWhat, a branding and media company that has changed the culture of many businesses in Dongguan.

The CultureMaker

DongguanKOLs

Make an Informed Dining Decision


f you’re looking for a place to host your next family reunion or friends’ gathering, Chinese people will inevitably scroll

through the reviews on an app before they make a final decision. Dianping and Koubei are the top two apps used for restaurants and bars; however, you can find other types of businesses such as salons, training centers and clothing stores as well.

Both Dianping and Koubei provide crowd-sourced guides and reviews of local businesses with a similar orange-colored interface. On Dianping and Koubei, users can browse listings to learn about businesses’ addresses, opening and closing hours, prices and overall reputation. You can also leave a review by writing about your experiences and rating the business out of five stars.

DianpingMerged with Meituan in 2015, Dianping has benefited from its huge user base; according to research in 2019, the number of active users reached 450 million and active businesses are around 6.2 million.

Conveniently, you can order takeout from Dianping while browsing through reviews or recommended dishes of the restaurant.

One of Dianping’s unique functions is the ongoing lucky draw campaign

called “Dine and Dash,” which is limited to Dianping’s VIP users. Winners can enjoy a free meal or service as

their lucky draw prize offered by different

businesses. To become a VIP,

you need to be a registered member for more than three months and have posted a

certain number of reviews that

are legitimate and helpful for others.

KoubeiKoubei joined the Alibaba ecosystem in 2015 and is

bundled with E Le Me, Alibaba’s trending takeout app. With more

than 2.5 million active businesses on the platform, Koubei is on the rise to competing against Dianping with very similar functions. The available coupons for new users have become its main attraction. You can download Koubei from the app store or access it from Alipay.

The FutureOF DONGGUAN

By Nebojsa Novakovic

FROM CITYBURBTO MEGALOPOLIS

ver its many years, HERE! has covered the colorful and eventful history of Dongguan. To wrap up the turbulent year of 2020, let’s see how the city plans to grow and

expand in the next decade.

Not only is Dongguan home to more than 10 million residents, it is also one of the world’s largest contiguous urban cityburbs located in between two even larger neighboring cities (Guangzhou and Shenzhen). This so-called “strategic squeeze” has a significant effect on the overall planning process, especially regarding Dongguan’s unique advantages. So, what should foreigners look forward to as planners slowly unveil their plans for Dongguan’s future?


From the planning point of view, Dongguan is the perfect setup with its combination of several large and small towns. However, some of these towns, like the rich Chang’an, Humen and Houjie, have a distinct approach towards their development plans, leading to challenges in integrating as a city.

If you pay closer attention, some of these developments are quite interesting: Houjie, for instance, is putting an effort to recreate a mini-Manhattan around the Liaoxia metro station, implementing a new landmark tower across the

road from Wanda Plaza. Is this a signal for the menacing black Hilton tower up the main road to finally open?

In Humen, you’ll finally see the Humen High Speed Rail station looking better than a desolate patch of land, with the addition of a massive new central business district (CBD) surrounding it. Under construction now, the first parts will be open to the public in three years. If you want to frequently commute to Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou or even as far as Changsha, this may be an ideal starting point for city-hopping.

Opportunity Of A Century THE CENTREPIECE OF GREATER BAY

AREA MEGALOPOLIS

Dongguan Today SMALL TOWNS CREATING A BIG CITY; UNITED YET UNIQUE

The Pearl River Delta Greater Bay Area megacity is by far the world’s largest megalopolis. In terms of the area, population size and income as well as the financial, industrial, technological strengths and even cultural impact—it aims to be an overall leader on a global scale.

Looking at the Greater Bay Area map, you’ll notice that Dongguan sits near its geographical center. In fact, its Binhai Bay New Area in Humen and Chang’an shares the actual geographical center title of the area with the Nansha district of Guangzhou right across the river.

At the northwest side, Dongguan’s lowland town sprawl smoothly continues into Guangzhou’s massively-redeveloping Huangpu port district, including a new CBD of its own next to the boundary between two cities. A string of other CBD developments along the Pearl River

continues up to Zhujiang New Town, the main new center of Guangzhou.

On the south, Chang’an is fused with the Shajing and

Songgang parts of Shenzhen’s Bao’an, while Binhai Bay has its twin in Shenzhen, 200 meters across the

Dongbao River. The string of those waterfront zones continues all the way to Qianhai Bay and beyond. Other Dongguan towns, such as Dalang and Fenggang, are also well linked or integrated with the immediate neighboring Shenzhen districts to the south.


Road, rail and water are key spines linking three main CBD clusters and several smaller centers.

Of course, any CBD is worth little if it’s difficult to access, from within the city or from the outside. Today, the Dongguan Metro only has two-thirds of the Line 2 alignment running; the other critical spine, Line 1 (linking Guangzhou and Shenzhen metro systems) is still nearly three years away from opening. The Nancheng central Hongfu Lu interchange station between these two lines is ready, with all the surrounding developments awaiting the Line 1 launch.

By 2026, the full Line 2 (to the Binhai Bay New CBD), Line 3 and Line 4 should be up and running, completing the original core Dongguan Metro blueprint. Important: the core lines will link to multiple Shezhen and Guangzhou metro lines, allowing smoother short cross-bay daily commute. Or, if in for an urban rail adventure, you can take an all-metro trip between Hong Kong, Dongguan and Guangzhou, then all the way to Foshan, Zhongshan and Zhuhai/Macau!

However, you’ll see an even faster way of traveling around the bay—the maglev train. Together with Shanghai-Hangzhou link, this will be the first major megalopolitan area in China endorsed to have high-speed maglev up to 600 km/h. Depending on the alignment, type (underground in tunnels or elevated on existing highways or rails) and cost, expect two major lines: Airport Express and CBD Express.

The first one, Airport Express, is likely to connect Shenzhen Bao’an Airport with Binhai Bay, Guangzhou Nansha, Guangzhou South, old Guangzhou Center and Baiyun Airport. The nonstop express should take less than 20 minutes between the two airports at 600 km/h maximum speed, allowing easy transfers

as if within one gigantic airport. The “slower” trains with multiple stops will help integrate the Shenzhen, Dongguan and Guangzhou townships into the “one hour life and work circle.” On top of it, future southern extension to Hong Kong Airport is a possibility too.

The second line, CBD Express—to start either in Shenzhen Futian (if underground) or Luohu Checkpoint New CBD (if elevated)—would stop in Nancheng New CBD (between Gedi and Xiping stations). Then, it will continue towards the current main Guangzhou CBD at the Guangzhou East Station in Tianhe District. It will link all the well-developed CBDs with 10-minute trips from central Shenzhen to central Dongguan, and then another 10 minutes to central Guangzhou. So, trains are expected to be full of passengers from day one. In the future, that line may even extend to Hong Kong Kowloon East!

Now imagine living around Nancheng New CBD. A short pleasant morning walk through the new Dongguan Central Park or the underground mall brings you to the maglev train. You take a quick 10-minute ride to your workplace in Guangzhou CITIC Tower next to the Guangzhou East Station. Or, the same 10-minute ride south for a morning business meeting at the top of Shenzhen Kingkey 100 St. Regis Hotel. That’s what the new generation commute will look like.

Maglev isn’t the only fast transit option coming. In the city south, Guangzhou Line 22 and Shenzhen Line 18, both express metro lines, will meet in Chang’an near the Binhai Bay New Area. The Guangzhou Line 28 will also link northern Dongguan with central Guangzhou.

LINKING 3 FOCUS CBD AREASWhile living here, you would have encountered—or got stuck on—the two regularly jam-packed trunk highways. One of them is the G107, which is part of a free nationwide trunk road, heading through Chang’an, Dalingshan and Songshan Lake, then turning towards Nancheng and all the way to Guangzhou Huangpu.

The other one, the S256 provincial highway, snakes its way through Chang’an, Humen, Houjie and Nancheng. As it passes through each town, its look and feel changes; in parts of Houjie and Nancheng, it feels

like a modern, pleasant avenue while elsewhere it returns to being an industrial throughfare.

These two roads are the real main spines of Dongguan from the days before tolled expressways, linking its most developed towns and districts on each side of the Dalingshan “Central Hills.” With better building quality, design and pedestrian-friendly features, they have immense potential to be transformed into boulevards and more. As always, government “encouragement” is needed.

Futuristic Transport CONNECTING THE CBDS



Since the last planning round nearly a decade ago, the “center of the center” of Dongguan has had its masterplan finalized, and the last sections of land were cleared earlier this year. The huge area is centered at the Xiping metro and intercity rail station, facing Dongguan Avenue. It will have the new, uniquely designed Dongguan Central Park in the middle, flanked by a spread of new high-rise towers—one of which can go up to 500 meters high, the new national height limit without special approval from Beijing. Around half a dozen of 200 to 350 meter tall buildings may join that tower and the current DG Metro towers towards the existing One Mall complex

on Dongguan Avenue. They’ll be the so-called “finance center” portion.

On the other side towards Gedi, a “corporate HQ” center with smaller clusters of towers will be built, flanked by an up to 450-meter tall landmark to be opened by 2027. Behind all of them, a long line of residential high-rises up to 50 stories high—together with cultural, sports and endless retail complexes, both above and under ground—completes the picture.

The new CBD will bridge the current Nancheng center and the UCC CBD at the Gedi station into a truly large

city center. It’s likely that you’ll be able to walk from one end to another in airconditioned comfort just like Shenzhen’s Futian center or the Taipei Zhongxiao Fuxing downtown core.

All in all, the new Nancheng CBD is the key area I’d look at if I wanted to plan a long term life here. It’s a suitable place for work and recreational activities considering the combination of new world-class content with the existing city center surrounding it, the combined Nancheng/Dongcheng/Guancheng urban whole, and the abundance of attractions and resources.

Main Dongguan Center PRESENT AND FUTURE OF NANCHENG CBD

If you thought Nancheng was big, you haven’t seen it all. Binhai Bay New City is a whopping 84 km2— nearly Manhattan-sized—with its development stretching from Humen’s famous Weiyuan Island across the Humen and Chang’an coastal area, up to the Dongbao river, and towards the border between Dongguan and Shenzhen Bao’an District.

Their showcase center along the S3 highway displays a futuristic Dubai-like marine downtown with multiple districts, such as corporate headquarters (Oppo City is already being built there), living (mostly at the current southern Humen area), educational and scientific areas at Weiyuan

Island, including a brand new Bay Area University. These ares are all connected by a plethora of both existing and new roads, bridges, metro and rail lines, as well as the new dedicated ferry port to Hong Kong and Macau.

While the Binhai development isn’t really targeted at an international

audience, it very specifically targets local and Hong Kong partners. In fact, HK MTR is the partner for the gigantic new railway station and transit-oriented development (TOD) here in Binhai.

Now, the time factor: besides the new HQ developments like the Oppo City, the rest will take time. We’re talking about year 2035 here. Although 2035 may seem too far away for anyone to

contemplate at present, it may be a realistic timeframe since, unlike in

Nancheng, there are no clear final zoning, height limitations

and other approvals, and the mass land parcel sales are still far off according to the

sources. Yet, the most important obstacle—there’s

a lot of existing land that needs to be expropriated

and cleared from the current owners,

especially in the Humen part.

Twinning with Hong KongBINHAI BAY NEW AREA



With “stormy weather on the western front” and China being a safe haven of sorts, the question is inevitable: will Dongguan’s future plans embrace an expanded, diverse foreign community across its many towns, including Western “high-quality refugees” considering to move here?

Let’s take this case into perspective: a typical middle-class “laowai” in STEM or an arts field, likely the desired type to settle down in China, would normally prefer either a small town or a city of one to two million people maximum. At that scale, in the west, you normally get all the bells and whistles in the urban quality of life.

Now, Dongguan is a puzzle board of towns and small cities . The more developed ones to the west of the Dalingshan “Central Hills” match the size we’re talking about. Moreover, the new ones to be developed—whether it is the Nancheng and Songshan Lake CBDs in the mature areas or the Binhai Bay New Area down south—are comfortable for the foreigners to embed and create small communities of the right scale. So, a melting pot at the Dongguan city scale with small unique communities across specific towns—preserving food, culture, art and such— could be a valuable proposition for Dongguan city planners.

The new plans, which you can also see in the Planning Gallery next to the Qifeng

Park Metro station, portray a modern and efficient yet sustainable and green future for Dongguan.

That future Dongguan could also be very foreigner friendly, and living here—in the center of the world’s largest megalopolis—would also give you access to the conveniences of adjoining giant cities with Hong Kong and Macau just a hop away.

A Special Concept IdeaUNIQUE FOREIGN COMMUNITIES IN DONGGUAN TOWNS


DG DRAGONS’ CHILI COOK OFF - ONE FOR THE ROAD - NOV 7


JOE WONG LIVE COMEDY - WANDA VISTA HOTEL - NOV 14


SOWHAT ELECTRONIC DANCE PARTY - GOOD GOOD GOLDEN TOWN - NOV 7

LITTLE WORLD CUP - SOCCERWORLD & XIHU STADIUM - NOV 25

HUMAN LIBRARY - STARBUCKS RESERVE DG MALL - NOV 18

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17TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY - PIZZERIA CALZONE - NOV 30

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CROSS CULTURAL

While Chinese systems expect children to follow exact instructions, Western systems offer an encouraging atmosphere where children can express themselves freely.

By Charlene Fu

Decision Maker or Rule Follower?

Although I believe it’s good for children to listen to their parents, it’s also equally important for them to developa sense of self and learn decision-making.

local daycare has revealed some interesting differences between the Chinese and Western perspectives on teaching

children. Jaden, my three-year-old son, just started at a new daycare and has quite enjoyed it.

Activities and games are mostly focused on the children conforming to what the adults want, such as following the adults’ directions in constructing a dinosaur made of Lego. In a Chinese daycare, the teacher shows them what to do—and they follow. These activities are structured to make all children reflect the same behavior.

Western education, which is modeled from the Montessori method (hands-on learning), tends to be the exact opposite. For example, rather than being shown how to make a dinosaur out of Lego, they will be given a pile of bricks and told to make whatever they like. Or rather than doing an activity based on adults’ step-by-step instructions, the children get to choose what they’re interested in, and the adults are simply there to offer any assistance and encourage them.

I see strengths and weaknesses in both systems. For one, Jaden enjoys learning how to build a dinosaur out of Lego bricks, but then he wants to use that

knowledge on his own to improve his creations. Although I believe it’s good for children to listen to their parents, it’s also equally important for them to develop a sense of self and learn decision-making. To be fairly honest, children can’t always learn effectively if they are being forced to do what someone else wants. Sometimes, they should follow their parents’ or teachers’ lead... Other times, the parents and teachers should follow the children’s lead.

My husband, John, tells me about one of his experiences in China. He was watching a performance by a group of young Chinese children. The children dressed in the same outfits, performed the same choreography,

and wore identical makeup.

However, there was one little boy who dared to be different. His dance moves were unique and he relished every minute in the spotlight. John took a picture of him and laughed, and a Chinese friend chided him. He explained to John that the parents of that child would feel embarrassed and ashamed, especially since their child acted in such an out-of-order manner.

John’s reaction was precisely the opposite. If his child acted like that, he would be proud that everyone would remember his child’s performance. Instead of scolding his child for rejecting the standard choreography, he would give him a big hug. For myself, I have to admit that I may feel somewhat embarrassed and I certainly wouldn’t praise my child for their behavior.

I know that I want Jaden to be successful, and there are specific things I want him to learn. On the other hand, I’ve had the opportunity to see his personality flourish and bloom. I see the huge smile on his face every time he masters a new skill, and he rushes to show it to me. I don’t think the Chinese way is

wrong or the Western way is right. It’s more a question of

finding the balance

between the two.



You taught students before in Croatia. Is there any difference between teaching in Europe and Asia?

Kids are kids—they’re the same everywhere, and they need the same things. They look up to the teacher for guidance. However, when I am here [in China], the level of English is lower than I expected.

What are your daily challenges from teaching in China, and how do you overcome those obstacles?

My daily challenges would include classes with mixed abilities. You’ll have kids whose English is really amazing in class, and you’ll have kids whose English is at a lower level. That’s one of the biggest challenges. I try to prepare different sets of material for different level students in a class.

How do you deal with discipline in a classroom?

For me, discipline has never really been a problem—the kids understand that when we play, we play, and when we work, we work. I have high expectations for my students, and I do push them to study hard. I also praise them, encourage them and help them along the way. If I have a problem with a particular student, I will speak to that student outside of the classroom so that he doesn’t lose face. I solve the problem by connecting with the student first, because not every approach works for every student.

How do you measure your success as a parent?

Success is a lifelong award as a parent. Watching your kids succeed in every part or stage in life, guiding them through the tough times, helping them to become a better human being, teaching them to be independent... These are only some of the success parameters to measure.

How do you know what’s best for your children?

The best way is to communicate and to be involved with them in their school activities and sports. This will help you understand what is best for your kids and what they enjoy doing. You can better understand their talents, strengths and weaknesses. My key point is to be the right role model for them to follow.

What’s the best way to react when you get disappointed by your children?

Most times, I would stay calm and quiet—indicating my disappointment—so I don’t react with anger or frustration. From this, the kids receive the message that I am upset with them. Later, I would talk with them and reason their actions and behavior. I would communicate clearly what is expected of them.

What should a parent do if their child is bullied at school?

I would tell my child to be bold when they are bullied and tell the person not to bully them. If this continues, report to teachers and also bring it to our attention. Be defensive, but never raise their hands or react violently to anyone in a situation. The key is to control their anger.

A Toolbelt of Tactics

Communication Comes First

EDUCATOR’S VOICE

PARENT’S VOICE

With a thorough understanding of each student’s individuality, Ana Papic is a source of guidance and support in the classroom.

In times of parenting turbulence, Sholes David values communication as the key source to building a positive relationship with his children.

TEACHERAna Papic

FROMCroatia

SCHOOLHanlin

Experimental School

GRADE LEVEL9

PARENTSholes David

FROMIndia

CHILDRENEsther (21) Noel (11)


few weeks ago, I went to A-ONE for lunch to enjoy their 50% off Membership Day specials. Since the BBQ

ribs sold out quickly, I ordered 24 pieces of fried chicken wings instead. To balance out the wings, I decided to try out a chef recommended dish: borsch soup. Upon tasting A-ONE’s borsch soup, I immediately found the ingredients very intriguing and decided to test my soup-making skills for this month’s Billy in the Kitchen.

As a Hong Kong native, borsch and cream mushroom soup were two of my all-time favorites. Whenever I visited Hong Kong-style Western restaurants, those two soups were always available on the menu.

While reviewing the recipe with Chef Men, I found the steps to be quite simple and straight forward. However, my previous cooking experience with the omelet proved nearly disastrous despite the seemingly “simple” recipe. I quickly learned that the recipe might not be as easy as it looks.

Surprisingly, the final outcome was very similar to Chef Men’s borsch soup. Throughout the cooking process, I was able to be creative with the ingredients, such as switching beef to chicken or pork. When the ingredients started to come together, the strong fragrance of the borsch soup filled

up the entire kitchen space. Furthermore, I had the freedom to add different amounts of vegetables based on my own preference. According to Chef Man’s advice, I could have fried the vegetables a little longer to amplify the taste. During the weekend, I will definitely be making a big bowl of borsch soup at home.

DINNER ISSERVEDDINE&DRINK

Billyin the

KITCHEN

Rating From Chef Men

Heat up the pot, add a little bit of olive oil and a cube of butter

Once the butter is fully melted, add 10 small dices of potato and carrot and cook for one minute

Add 10 small pieces of tomato and celery, then cook for another minute

Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, ½ tablespoon of ketchup and ½ tablespoon of white wine, then stir fry everything together

Add 5 large scoops of chicken soup, turn down the fire and simmer for 30 minutes

Add 10 small dices of beef and chopped cabbage

Add ½ teaspoon of salt, sugar and chicken powder

Add a few drops of tabasco in the end

12

34

5

678

WATCHTHE

VIDEO!

Cooking the dish


estled alongside the perimeter of New World Garden, Y+ Coffee and Restaurant is an aesthetic cafe making its way

into the dining world. We were immediately greeted with a warm welcome from the coffee brewers and soft jazz music that filled up the room. A long wooden table is the cafe’s main attraction, as it is the perfect spot for an afternoon study session or a coffee meeting with friends. Beside the wooden table, customers can find a wide bookshelf stacked with a curated selection of multilingual books.

Although the cafe mainly serves drinks, they have recently introduced a Western-style menu with new dishes to attract a foreign crowd.

To kick off the evening, the main appetizer was a chicken breast salad served in a homemade fashion. Its combination of the fresh lettuce and delicate chicken breast slices reflected Y+’s persistence to serve tasty yet healthy food options. Immediately after we finished the appetizer, the main dish was revealed.

At first glance, the chef’s pasta seemed like your typical average cheese pasta. After tasting this dish, the unassuming pasta actually carried a mix of flavors. In this case, the chef’s pasta was a perfect blend of delightful cheese and perfect seasoning. The mushrooms added a chewy texture that complemented the creamy sauce.

In a surprising twist to this dining experience, we were introduced to an all-day breakfast set, including English sausages, fried eggs (cooked to your preference), hash browns, mushrooms and more. The unique aspect pertaining to this plate is that this breakfast dish can be ordered at any time. If you are craving a breakfast dinner, Y+ is definitely the place to go.

While Y+ has an entire menu of Western dishes, their drinks are a must-try. After all, a cafe is nothing without great coffee! After lengthy deliberation and gawking at a wall lined with drink choices, we selected caramel macchiato, iced cappuccino, lemon iced tea, single chocolate and affogato. Each drink came with its own unique spin; one of my favorites—the lemon iced tea—left a sweet and sour aftertaste.

Head over to Y+ for a breakfast meal, an afternoon espresso, or an evening dine-in!

Address: No. 11, Dijing Tai, New World Garden, Dongcheng / 東城新世界花園帝景台11號

DINNER ISSERVED

From all-day breakfast meals to a well-crafted pasta, Y+ is much more than your typical coffee house.

By Isadora Busato

All-In-One Dining

Chicken Breast Salad

“I appreciate the healthy aspect to Y+ dishes and the friendliness of the staff.”

Mo Rubing

CUSTOMER COMMENT

Chef’s Pasta

Y+ All Day Brunch


efore they came to China, many Westerners hated eggplants because their home countries tend to cook eggplants in a flavorless

way. The worst recipe I have heard of was cooking the vegetable in plain water!

The eggplant started to appear on Chinese dining tables before it was introduced to the Europeans. Although it is believed to have originated in India, where a small, white, egg-like variety of the vegetable was high in demand, Chinese people across the country have definitely mastered the culinary techniques to bring out the best of eggplants.

The great novel “A Dream of Red Mansions” mentioned an ultimate recipe of how to cook them: “The vegetables are skinned and cut into strips that are steamed over a pot of chicken stock. They are dried and the whole process repeated nine times until the essence of chicken has thoroughly soaked through the vegetable. Store them in tightly sealed jars and stir fry them with slivers of meat from chicken drumsticks.”

Some enthusiastic gastronomes have attempted to make this awe-inspiring eggplant delicacy. However, individuals should consider other more feasible methods to make a tasty eggplant dish.

Braised EggplantAn authentic braised eggplant dish requires attention to detail. The eggplant is cut into strips with small scale-like incisions on the skin in order to better infuse flavor while it cooks. First, the strips are softened in hot oil and slowly turns brown. The signature base for this dish is prepared separately, consisting of a mixture of Sichuan chili sauce, minced garlic, ginger and a lot of shallot. Then, ground pork is added and stir fried before placing the eggplant strips back in the wok. Sometimes, pickled chili

and sweet chili sauce is added to deliver a special fragrance.

Stuffed EggplantThe eggplant is cut into thick slices, each of which has a lateral cut. Make a filling from ground pork or any meat you prefer and stuff it into the eggplant slices. The stuffed eggplants are coated in flour and then glazed in beaten egg. Deep fry the eggplants until they are brown and not too soft.

Baked EggplantIt is super easy to make baked eggplant as long as you have an oven. Cut the eggplant into halves and brush the skin with oil before sprinkling all sorts of seasoning according to your preference on top. To name a few, you can try out minced ginger, garlic, chili, salt, pepper, cumin, curry or even cinnamon. A little soy sauce can boost the overall flavor as well. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes based on the size of your eggplant. Finally, sprinkle a little shallot on the softened eggplant meat. If you like, some needle mushrooms can be added for an extra crunchy sensation before you place the dish into the oven.

CHINESECUISINE

Discover the recipe behind three types of eggplants—braised, stuffedand baked. They certainly don’t disappoint.

By Charlene Fu

Eggplant Made Tasty

Chinese people across the country have definitely mastered the culinary techniques to bring out the best of eggplants.

want this place to draw a neighborly crowd,” A Rong said, standing confidently behind the bar. I quickly understood that

this isn’t just idle conversation. The owner of Bar Blend, although a young man, is no newcomer in the business and knows that good cocktails aren’t enough to make a place successful. He understands that Bar Blend needs to be a place of respite where customers can unwind and enjoy a drink (or more) in peace and comfort.

Cozy, bathed by the warm copper hue of neon lights lining the shelves behind the bar, Bar Blend feels inviting right away. A Rong advises us to get a beer on tap, something he does with most of his customers. It is meant to give us the time to consider what we really want to drink. Long or short drinks, classics or originals, A Rong listens with the patience and wisdom of a true professional. I tell him that I enjoy whiskey drinks and have a preference for classic cocktails.

In response, he serves me my first glass of the evening: a “Boulevardier” (Y78). This is his take on the classic “Negroni.” He mixes bourbon (Four Roses), Vermouth and Campari, then pours it over a large ice cube and a slice of orange peel. The result is a smooth, syrupy mix blending the sweetness of the bourbon and the bitterness of the Campari.

A Rong is striving to convince the younger crowd that a bar experience is something to savor, not rush. Doing so requires some specialty drinks, and he regularly infuses bottles with original flavors.

My second drink is a fine illustration. “A Rong’s Choice” (Y98) is made of Oolong infused gin, pine infused vodka, dry Vermouth and sherry. He defines it as his version of the “Vesper.” As a final touch, he smokes the cocktail lightly with applewood. It’s a powerful drink, but hints of vermouth and tea permeate under the smokiness.

No doubt perceiving that I was winding down a bit, A Rong offers me a glass of Blanton’s Bourbon (Y136/glass) as his third and final offering. Never losing sight of my preferences, the last drink topped off a very pleasant evening in style.

Address: No. 110, Bldg 11, Kaisheng Jing Yuan, No. 33, Dongsheng Rd, Dongcheng / 东城区东升路33号凯晟景园商业楼11栋110号


THE NIGHTSPOT

Being a sanctuary of relaxation at the end of a tedious day, the drinks at Bar Blend are the perfect escape.

By Stephan Barton

A Midnight Getaway

“I enjoy Bar Blend’s variety of affordable whiskey and cocktail options.”

CUSTOMER COMMENT

Zheng Kang Lin

A Rong’s Choice

Boulevardier

Blanton’s Bourbon

HEREDG.COM November 2020 39

40 HERE! November 2020

DG LISTINGSFOOD & DRINK

AMERICANA-ONE RESTAURANTFamily-friendly sports themed restaurant with arcade and table gamesMO-TH 11am-12am, FR-SU 11am-1am / No. 115-116 Area B, Top of the World Garden, Dongcheng / A-ONE体育主题餐厅, 东莞市东城区天骄峰景B区22-24栋115-116号铺 / 26626562

FIFTH AVENUEModern fusion cusine with Italian touches10am-2:30pm, 5pm-12am / No. 23 Qifeng View, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 亚维尼餐吧, 东城区东城东路星河传说旗峰天下步行街23号铺 / 23369920

GRATEFUL Q Authentic American comfort food and fusionWE-MO 12pm-2:30pm, 5pm-11:30pm / No. B30 Yonghuating Walking Street, Dongcheng / 阁瑞芙美式餐吧/东城区雍华庭步行街商铺B30号 / 15017005922

THE CRAB HOUSENew Orleans style dinner, bib and all, with a secret on the second floorNo. A5 Dongcheng South Rd (Bar Street), Dongcheng / 蟹家美式海鲜餐厅, 东城区东城南路酒吧街A5商铺(BB酒吧对面) / 21668899

THREEDROPS ON GARDENTwo floors offering a breakfast, lunch and dinner menu and evening cocktails10am-2am / No. C1026 New World Garden, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 叁·色, 东城区东城东路16号新世界花园商业街C区1026室 / 17160813575

ZIGGY’S RETRO DINERTU-FR 11am-2pm, 5pm-11pm, SA-SU 11am-12am / No. 4-119 Xinyi Building, No. 293 Dezheng Rd, Chang’an / 烧鸟屯, 东莞市长安镇咸西德政中路293号信义怡翠豪园4栋4-119店铺 / 18819760576, 13712790890

BARSCARMEN’S BARNot a typical hotel bar with two pool tables, live music and drink specials5pm-2am / Pullman Dongguan Forum, No. 32 Dongcheng Middle Rd, Dongcheng / 卡门吧, 东城区东城中路32号东莞旗峰山铂尔曼酒店 / 23368888

COLOUR PUB8pm-4am / Room 159, No. 7, Hongwei Rd, Xiping Area, Nancheng / 咖乐，南城区西平社区宏伟路7号159室 / 33655888

HOLLYWOOD BABYDongguan’s oldest owned-and-run foreign bar5:30pm-2am / No. 8 Taoli Garden, Chang’an / 好莱坞酒吧, 长安镇桃李花园A幢8号铺 / 18025163059

HOLLYWOOD BABY TOOParty until the sun comes up at DG’s most famous late-night barSU-TU 6pm-2am, FR-SA 6pm-4am / No. A1003 New World Plaza, Dongcheng Zhi Rd (Bar Street), Dongcheng / 东城区东城支路新世界花园商铺A1003号

IRENE’S BARHave dinner and a drink after work in Houjie’s oldest expat hangout 4:30pm-1:30am / No. 33 Yuefan Shan North Ave, Houjie / 艾运酒吧, 厚街镇岳范山大道北33号 / 13712551293

JIM’S ROADHOUSE5pm-2am / No. 225-226 Zhong Hui Bar Street, Chang'an / 吉姆酒吧, 东莞市长安镇中惠山畔名城225-226号 / 17702603871

MURRAY’S IRISH PUBListen to live music or show how smart you are at the weekly quiz11am-1pm / No. 66 Dongcheng Ave, New World Garden, Dongcheng / 东城区东城大道66号 (新世界花园地铺) / 22322677

WINNERS ENGLISH BAR5pm-2am / No. A10-A11 Ruikang Rd, Hengli / 赢家英国吧, 东莞市横沥镇瑞康路A10-A11 / 82303711

ZIGGY’S BAR & GRILL6pm-2am / No. 117 Xianxi Community, Lianfeng Rd, Chang’an / 烧鸟屯, 长安镇咸西社区莲峰路客天下君临长安1单元1层117铺 / 18819760576, 13712790890

BRAZILIANBB’SBrazilian BBQ style, all-you-can-eat meat and buffet 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9:30pm / Tangla Dongguan Hotel, No. 8 Yingbin Rd, Dongcheng / 东莞唐拉雅秀酒店, 巴比巴西餐厅, 东城区迎宾路8号 / 22698888

BREWERIESBIG RIVERTaste Brazilian BBQ on a roof terrace while drinking an ice-cold brewTU-SU 2pm-2am / 2F Bldg 25, Guangdong 33 Town, Dongsheng Rd, Dongcheng / 大美江精酿啤酒吧, 东莞市东城区东昇路33号广东33小镇25栋2楼 / 13728279936

CHEER BARDrink DG’s famous Sassy Lassy IPA or try other brews5pm-1:30am / Bldg 14 Loft 8, Guancheng / 嬉啤室精酿啤酒屋，莞城区工农8号创意园14号仓库 / 26260355

LIBERTY BREWING CO.Hip expat hangout serving a mix of modern and traditional American foodTU-SU 11am-12pm / Bldg 31 IEO, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 东城区东城东路星河传说IEO 31号楼 / 22768226

MO BREWNeighborhood bar, live music on weekends and bar food 11:30am-3pm / No. 133 Vpark, No. 228 Lifeng Rd, Dongcheng / 沫酿酒馆，莞城区丽峰路228号Vpark商场133号 / 22223918

THE BREW LAB 6pm-2am / No. 107 Yujing Mansion, Dongcheng / 阔, 东城区御景大厦地铺107号 / 18520205306

BRITISHALAN’S WORLDA cozy place serving authentic meat pies and imported ciderWE-MO 8am-9pm / No. 26 Qifeng View, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 东城区东城东路星河传说旗峰天下商铺26号 / 22330440

CAFEHOUSE COFFEE9am-12pm / 2F Bldg 33 IEO, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 东城区东城东路星河传说新天地33号楼2楼 / 23286269

SHAREFOODS CAFEContinental menu with everything made from imported ingredients8am-10:30pm / BH1-036B Block A, First International, Nancheng / 香馥咖啡.馥厨房，南城区第一国际A座一楼BH1-036B号 / 22811389

STARBUCKS RESERVEGet yourself a copy of HERE! and your favorite whatever latte!8:30am-10:30pm / 1F, L1055C, DG Mall, Hongfu East Rd, Dongcheng / 星巴克臻选店, 东城区鸿福东路1号国贸城5号商业楼首层L1055C单元 / 390283737:30am-11:30pm / 1F, No. 1001-1002, Dongcheng Wanda Plaza, Dongzong Rd, Dongcheng / 星巴克臻选店, 东城区东纵路208号东城万达广场室内步行街地面一层1001和1002号铺 / 230516889am-9:30pm / 1F, No. 1024, Xianglongtiandi Mall, Changping Avenue, Changping / 星巴克臻选店, 常平镇常平大道88号翔龙天地一层1024号铺 / 810336208am-9:30pm / 1F, No. 106, Vanke Mall, Hongfu West Rd, Wanjiang / 星巴克臻选店, 万江区鸿福西路8号东江之星广场一层106号铺 / 272281127am-11:30pm / 1F, No. 052, Vanke Mall, Chang qing Rd, Chang’an / 星巴克臻选店, 长安镇长青路1号东莞长安万科首层L1-052 / 81558113

CANTONESEDAOXIANG RESTAURANT Go for a Hong Kong dim sum experience, prepare for long lines on weekends7am-3pm, 5pm-10pm / 4F West Area, First International, Hongfu Rd, Nancheng / 稻香, 南城区鸿福路200号第一国际财富中心西区4楼 / 21681602

DINGFENGShanghai and Guangdong cuisines, which are great for groups11am-2pm, 5pm-9:30pm / Bldg 21, Guangdong 33 Town, Dongsheng Rd, Dongcheng / 鼎丰私房菜，东城区东昇路33号广东三十三小镇21栋101-201号 / 22218828

DONGGUAN OLD RESTAURANT7:30am-2pm, 5pm-10pm / 6F Kingdom Plaza, Dongcheng Ave, Dongcheng / 东莞老饭店, 东城区东城大道君豪商业中心6楼 / 22325555

FORUM FOOD STREET 7:30am-2pm, 5pm-10pm / Pullman Dongguan Forum, No. 32 Dongcheng Middle Rd, Dongcheng / 旗峰山食街, 东城区东城中路32号东莞旗峰山铂尔曼酒店 / 23365231

HOLLYIIModern take on traditional dim sum, vibrant atmosphere and foreign-friendly11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10pm / No. L1-008 Vanke Plaza, Dongcheng West Rd, Guancheng / 何莉儿粤小馆, 莞城区万科城市广场L1-008 / 26620982

ZHENGet your Cantonese fix in a 5-star environment9am-2pm, 5pm-10pm / Wanda Vista Dongguan Hotel, 208 Dongzong Rd, Dongcheng / 东莞万达文华酒店品珍中餐厅, 东城区东纵路208号 / 22001888

DONGBEISHANDONG LAO JIAA chain restaurant with an extensive menu and good quality food 10am-9pm / No. 80 Yujing Walking Street, Dongcheng / 山东老家, 东城区东城步行街(星巴克后面)80号 / 2313208810am-9pm / No. A120 Yifeng Dushi Square, Dongcheng / 山东老家怡丰分店, 东城区火炼树怡丰都市广场A120号 / 2250058810am-9pm / No. 8 Bldg B City Holiday, Nancheng / 山东老家富民分店, 南城区莞太新基路段城市假日二期B座8号 / 22906188

GERMANMARTIN’SEnjoy fresh bread and desserts along with a full menu8am-10pm / Bldg 20 IEO, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 东城区东城东路星河传说新天地20号楼1楼 / 22765885

HOTPOTHAI DI LAO Practice the art of waiting, but trust us it is worth it at this 22-hour kitchen9am-7am / No. 205B, 2F, One Mall, Nancheng / 海底捞火锅，南城区汇一城205B单元10am-7:30am / 3F Yingfeng Plaza, Dongcheng / 海底捞火锅，东城区东纵路138号盈锋广场3层9am-7am / 2F, BC3 Area, South China Mall, Wanjiang / 海底捞火锅，万江区华南摩尔BC3区2层

HUNANSHUI MO TIAN YUAN9am-9pm / 3F, No. 3019-3020, Wanda Plaza, Dongcheng / 水墨田塬，东城万达广场3层3019-302011am-9pm / 4F, No. L4008, DG Mall, Dongcheng / 水墨田塬，民盈国贸城5号楼四层L4008号铺

THE FOOD IS DELICIOUS11am-2pm, 4:30pm-9pm / Jingyi Hotel, Dongping St, Dongcheng / 饭菜真湘, 东城区东平街景怡酒店1楼世纪广场后门 / 2231091911am-2pm, 4:30-9pm / 2F, Hongfu Garden, Guantai Avenue, Nancheng / 饭菜真湘, 南城区莞太大道65号鸿福花园二楼C8-C10铺位 / 2208969911am-2pm, 4:30-9pm / 3F Gourmet Plaza, South China Mall, Wanjiang / 饭菜真湘, 万江区华南摩尔美食广场3楼 / 28689500

ZUI MEI SAN XIANG11:30am-9:30pm / No. 141 Chui Zi Da Jie, Dongcheng / 醉美三湘，东城街道槌子大街141号 / 15019199618

IMPORTED FOODALLGOOD SUPERMARKETMO-TH 10am-10pm, FR-SU 10am-10:30pm / Vanke Plaza, Dongcheng West Rd, Guancheng / 顶之选精品超市, 东城区旗峰路与东城西路交汇处，万科城市广场负一楼 / 21668260

CORNER’S DELI9am-10pm / 15-16 Qifeng View, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 每一角落, 东城区东城东路星河传说旗峰天下紫荆苑15-16号铺/ 23287227

JAY’S DELI8am-11pm / No. 27 New World Garden, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 东城区东城东路新世界花园27号铺 / 89974099



MORE FOODS9am-9pm / No. 113 Canal East 3rd Rd, Nancheng / 摩坊食品店, 南城区运河东三路113号福安楼 / 22880579

METRO6am-10pm / No. 1 Jin’ao Rd, Wanjiang / 麦德龙, 万江区金鳌路 / 22178888

NO. 1 SUPERMARKET9am-11pm / No. 9-11 New World Garden, Dongcheng Zhi Rd, Dongcheng / 好好超级商场, 东城区新世界花园东城支路9-11号 / 22474111

OLIVER10am-9pm / No. A22 New World Garden, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 奥利华超市, 东城区新世界花园东城东路22号A铺 / 22456005

INDIANLITTLE INDIAThe oldest Indian restaurant in town with a cozy atmosphere10am-2pm, 5-11pm / A1007 New World Garden Plaza, Dongcheng Zhi Rd (Bar Street), Dongcheng / 小印度餐厅, 东城区东城支路新世界花园商铺A1007 / 23133786

ITALIANAL POZZO ITALIAN KITCHEN10:30am-2pm, 5:30pm-10pm / Yifan Shoe City, Houjie Rd, Houjie / 阿朴宙意大利餐厅, 厚街镇厚街大道一帆鞋城 / 85882286

BONACASAHigh-end Italian cuisine to make sure your party is satisfied11am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10pm / No. BJ008 Zhongxin Plaza, Houjie / 博纳意大利餐厅, 东莞市厚街镇中鑫广场一层 BJ008号商铺 / 85828707

CUCINA MO-FR 11am-2pm, 5:30pm-10:30pm, SA-SU 11am-11pm / No. A168, Bar Street, Dongcheng South Rd, Dongcheng / 古缇娜意大利餐厅，东城区东城南路酒吧街A168 / 19876914413

GRILL DE NOBLESSE7am-11am, 3pm-10pm / 37F Kande International Hotel, Hongfu Rd, ancheng / 东莞康帝国际酒店, 南城区南城区鸿福路200号海德广场 / 28688888-8288

HOSTARIA RESTAURANT& WINE BAR A swanky establishment to dine and drink in style with Italian food worth the price11am-2pm, 5pm-2am / No. A8 Dongcheng South Rd (Bar Street), Dongcheng / 维他餐吧, 东城区东城南路酒吧街A8号 / 23369788

MACCHERONI An old Italian favorite, good for dinner with your clients10:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10:30pm / No. 184, Shanhu Rd, Houjie / 莎瓦多纳意大利西餐厅厚街店, 东莞市厚街镇珊瑚路184号 / 82720689 10:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-11pm / No. 35-39 Qifeng View, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 莎瓦多纳意大利餐厅星河传说店, 东城区东城东路星河传说旗峰天下35-39号铺 / 23163665

MATTI BISTROT 11am-12am / No. 21, Qifeng View, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 马克多纳疯狂餐吧，东城区东城东路星河传说旗峰天下21号铺 / 26266066 / 13380130088

PIZZERIA CALZONEDine-in or opt for great delivery service at one of DG’s oldest establishments 11am-11pm / 7-1B Dongcheng East Center, Dongcheng / 必萨乐, 东城区东城中心涌翠庭7座1B / 22502420, 225040450 / DELIVERY HOTLINE: 400-88-48259

THE BUTCHERY HOUSEPick your meat and take home or let them cook it for free 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10:30pm / No. 32-33 Qifeng View, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 肉工房, 东城区东城东路星河传说旗峰天下商铺32-33号铺 / 18122884297

JAPANESEAJISEN10:30am-2pm, 4:30pm-10:30pm / No. 148 Yujing Walking Street, Dongcheng / 东城区东城大道风情步行街148号 / 18998066785

MIKURA11am-2pm, 5pm-10:30pm / No. B13 Moon Bay Plaza, Dongcheng / 东城区金月湾广场B13号铺 / 23133353

TAIRYO 11am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10:30pm / 13 Bowls Food Mile, Dongsheng Rd, Dongcheng / 大渔铁板烧, 东城区东城十三碗美食广场 / 2316852811am-2:30pm, 5:30-10:30pm / No. 223 Mingzhu Plaza, Changqing North Rd, Chang’an / 大渔铁板烧, 长安镇长青北路明珠广场223号(长怡路工商局对面) / 81889926

BROTHER SHIPSet sail to an upscale Japanese restaurant in the heart of the city11:30am-2pm, 4pm-12am / No. A1005 New World Plaza, Dongcheng Zhi Rd., Dongcheng / 兄弟船日本料理，东城支路新世界花园A1005

KOREANUNCLE CHICKENWith a Chinese and Korean menu, the fried chicken is number one10:30am-2:30pm, 4:30pm-12am / No. B14, Jin Ze Garden, Dongping St., Dongcheng / 东城区东平街金泽花园B14号 / 23608851, 18576380951

HAN YAN LI 11:30am-2:30pm, 5pm-10pm / No. 53 Yonghuating Walking Street, Dongcheng / 东城西路雍华庭外围53号铺 / 23133373

KIDSLEPARK PLAY CAFEFull menu for lunch and dinner with 11 play areas for kidsTU-SU 10am-10pm, 3F Bldg 28, Guangdong 33 Town, Dongsheng Rd, Dongcheng / 乐派亲子餐厅乐园，东城区东昇路33号广东33小镇28栋3楼 / 22008821

MEXICANAL CHILEAn expat favorite spicing up lunch and dinner, as well as partiesTU-SU, 12pm-2pm, 5pm-11pm / No. A23 Yonghuating Walking Street, Dongcheng / 东城区雍华庭风情步行街A23 / 15015220963

PIZZAGECKO PIZZA & PUBOne of Chang’an’s oldest expat hangouts and the menu has more than pizzaTU-TH 11:30am-1:30pm, 5pm-12pm FRI-SUN 12pm-12am / No. 5 Second Ring Rd, Tao Li Garden, Chang’an / 长安二环路桃李花园5号铺 / 85422116

PAPA JOHN’SAuthentic American pies for the masses, just like back homeTU-SU 6pm-11pm / Century Plaza, Dongcheng Ave, Dongcheng / 东城区东城大道世纪广场 / 23057688

REDBULL STEAK HOUSE1/F, Area A, Moonbay Plaza, Dongcheng / 红牛牛扒屋，东城区金月湾广场A区1楼 / 22118281


SICHUANXIAO SICHUAN 11am-10pm / No. 258 Garden Rd, Huayuan Xincun, Dongcheng / 小四川，东城区花园新村花园路258号 / 2229736911am-10pm / No. 28 Champaign Era, Global Plaza, Dongcheng Middle Rd, Dongcheng / 小四川，东城区东城中路世博广场香槟时代园28号 / 2360784011am-10pm / No. 24 Fengrun Ge, Yifeng Square, Nancheng / 小四川，南城区怡丰都市广场丰润阁24号 / 23397012

STEAK HOUSE UPTOWN 26STEAK HOUSE & WINE BAR11am-2pm, 5pm-11pm / Bldg 25, Guangdong 33 Town, Dongsheng Rd, Dongcheng / 26号扒房, 东莞市东城区东昇路33号广东33小镇25栋1楼 / 15818279887

TAIWANESECUISINE 4211am-2:30pm, 5pm-10pm / No. 42 Qifeng View, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 私厨42, 东城区东城东路星河传说旗峰天下步行街42号铺 / 22083625

SUSAN’S KITCHENA staple for shoemakers in Houjie, open close to a decade11:30am-2pm, 5:30pm-9pm / No. 21 Housha Rd, Houjie / 老妈私房菜, 东莞市厚街镇厚沙路21号 / 85988068

THAITHAI BASIL11:30am-11pm / Dongcheng South Rd (Bar Street), Dongcheng / 香叶栈, 东城区东城南路酒吧街 / 22457988

THAI PAI DANGDo not miss this hole-in-the-wall location that offers a real Thai experience11am-2pm, 5:30pm-9:30pm / No. 7 Chun Tian Rd, Dongcheng / 犬眠岭春天路十一巷7号 / 22882999

VEGETARIANSHU FANG ZHAI VEGETARIAN11:20am-2pm, 5:30pm-8pm / No. 90-92 Yu Jing New Times Square, Dongcheng Ave, Dongcheng / 树方斋素食馆, 东城区东城大道愉景新时代广场90-92号 / 22760659

UPPER CAVEMAN DESIGN CLUB11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9:30pm / No. 70-80 Ju Xiang Yuan, Shi Zhu Rd, Nancheng / 山顶洞人, 南城区石竹路菊香苑70-80号 / 22995749

XINJIANGYILI XINJIANG RESTAURANT Every expat’s favorite, consistently serving delicious Chinese Muslim food11am-2pm, 5pm-9pm / No. 1023 New World Garden, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 伊犁之春餐厅, 东城东路新世界花园商业街1023号 / 23136999 11:30am-2:30pm, 5pm-10pm / No. 53 North Gate Shizhu Garden, Nancheng / 伊犁之春餐厅, 南城区石竹花园北门F座53号 / 22423909

ENTERTAINMENTDANCE CLUBSBB CLUB9pm-4am / No. B1 New World Garden, Dongcheng South Rd (Bar Street), Dongcheng / 东城区东城南路酒吧街B01 / 13048877450

BEIJING BAR9pm-4am / 1029A New World Plaza, Dongcheng South Rd (Bar Street), Dongcheng / 山姆大叔, 东城区东城南路酒吧街新世界花园商铺A1029

H CLUB8pm-4am / Guangfa Financial Tower, Shizhu Rd, Nancheng / 南城区石竹路广发金融大厦西 / 13450069191

THEATERSCULTURE WEEKEND THEATERSA 7pm-10pm / Xiangyang Rd, Guangcheng / 文化周末剧场，莞城区向阳路(原莞城区文化广场报告厅) / 22102108

DONGGUAN CULTURE & CENTER ART CENTER8:30am-10pm / No. 6 Hongfu West Rd, Wanjiang / 东莞市民艺术中心, 万江区鸿福西路6号 / 22837141, 13903038910

YULAN THEATERNo. 96 Hongfu Rd, Central Square, Nancheng / 玉兰大剧院, 南城新城市中心鸿福路96号 / 22837366, 22837388, 22837399

RECREATIONCHIC FUN BOWL BOWLING12pm-1am / No. 66 Woling Industrial Avenue / 涡岭工业大道66号 / 22237193

DONGGUAN JINGSUGO-KARTING CLUBTest your driving skills at this indoor track hidden in an industrial buildingMO-FR 11am-10:30pm, SA-SU 10am-10:30pm / 2F Xiangyuan Rd, Xinji cross, Nancheng / 东莞竞速卡丁车俱乐部, 南城区新基路口香园路 / 26990800, 15814327134

HARBOUR PLAZA GOLF CLUB6:30am-7pm / Houjie / 海逸高尔夫球会, 东莞市厚街镇大迳管理区 / 85818080

HILLVIEW GOLF CLUB Ying Bin Rd, Dongcheng / 东莞峰景高尔夫有限公司, 东城区迎宾大道 / 22699999

LONG ISLAND GOLF& COUNTRY CLUB6:30am-9pm / Lotus Hill, Chang’an / 长安高尔夫球乡村俱乐部, 莲花山麓 / 85313888

SOCCER WORLD 9am-10pm / Dongguan Sports Center, No.3 Tiyu Rd, Nancheng / 南城区体育路3号东莞体育馆 / 13925231053

MUSEUMS21 SPACE ART MUSEUM TU-SU 9am-5pm / No. 36 Area H, Hyphen Commercial Center, No.1 Huifeng Rd, Guancheng / 莞城区汇峰路一号汇峰中心H区36号 / 28821988

DONGGUAN CITY MUSEUMTU-SU 9am-5pm / No. 97 Hongfu Rd, Central Square, Nancheng / 东莞展览馆, 南城区新城市中心鸿福路97号 / 22834013

Contact us today at [email protected] or call 135 8081 5962


DONGGUAN SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY MUSEUMTU-SU 9:30am-5:30pm / No. 2 Yuanmei Rd, Central Square, Nancheng / 东莞市科学技术博物馆, 南城区新城市中心元美路2号 / 22835266

GUANCHENG ART MUSEUM 9:30am-5pm / North Bldg of Shimin Plaza, Xiangyang Rd, Guancheng / 东莞市高第街1号市民广场北楼莞城美术馆 / 22100261

KEYUAN MUSEUM 8am-5:30pm / No. 32 Keyuan Rd, Guancheng / 可园博物馆, 东莞市莞城区可园路32号 / 22223600

LINGNAN MUSEUM OF FINE ART Keyuan North Rd, Guancheng / 岭南美术馆, 莞城区可园北路 / 22110938

OPIUM WAR MUSEUM9am-5pm / No. 88 Jiefang Rd, Humen / 鸦片战争博物馆, 东莞市虎门镇解放路88号 / 85512065

SEA BATTLE MUSEUM9am-5pm / Hai Zhan Guan Rd, Nanmian Village, Weiyuan Island, Humen / 鸦片战争海战博物馆, 东莞市虎门威远岛南面村海战馆路 / 85500322

HEALTHHOSPITALS & CLINICSANGEL DENTAL 8:30am-9:30pm / No. A77, Yonghuating Walking Street, Dongcheng / 天使口腔, 东城区风情步行街A77 / 22326999, 23010620

DONGHUA HOSPITALNo. 1 Dongcheng Dong Rd, Dongcheng / 东华医院, 东城区东城东路1号 / 22333333

GLOBAL DOCTOR INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL CENTERMO-SA 9am-6pm (24/7 emergency on call) / 3F No. 28 IEO, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 环球医生, 东城区星河传说IEO国际街区28号楼 / 22030011 (24 HOURS)

GOOD DENTAL 9am-8pm / 2-3F Yingfeng Center, No. 26 Tiyu Rd, Nancheng / 固德口腔总院, 南城区体育路26号盈锋中心东区二, 三楼 / 39000115/1867661663610am-9pm / No. 201, Vanke Town Area 3-130, Humen / 固德口腔分院, 虎门镇虎门万科城三区130号201 / 3900099910am-9pm / No. 119-120 Bldg 21, Wanda Mansion, Dongcheng / 固德口腔分院，东城万达广场21栋119-120号 / 3900055510am-9pm / 1F, Fengtaifenghua Area, Xinlian Village, Humen / 固德口腔分院, 虎门镇新联村丰泰风华区一楼 / 8519802810am-9pm / No.190, 1F, Bldg 4, Upper East International, Baxin South Rd, Wanjiang / 固德口腔分院，万江区坝新路南上东国际花园4号商业楼一楼190号 / 39000222

KANGHUA HOSPITALNo. 1000 Dongguan Ave, Nancheng / 康华医院, 南城区东莞大道1000号 / 22823333

PEOPLE’S HOSPITALNo. 3 Wandao Rd South, Xinguchong, Wanjiang / 东莞市人民医院, 万江区新谷涌万道路南3号 / 28637333

YADAO DENTAL 9-12am, 2-6pm / No. 106 Bldg 29-30, Guangdong 33 Town, No. 33, Dongsheng Rd, Dongcheng / 东城区东昇路33号广东三十三小镇29-30栋106号 / 22208687

YYL HOSPITALGet private, Western style medical services in English8am-12am, 2pm-6pm / No.130 Xueyuan Rd, Guancheng / 育医林医院, 莞城区学院路130号 / 22219333(中文) / 22388733(EN)

WELLNESSATHENA FOOT MASSAGE 12pm-1am / Pullman Dongguan Forum, No. 32 Dongcheng Middle Rd, Dongcheng / 千足经, 东城区东城中路32号东莞旗峰山铂尔曼酒店 / 23368888

ESCAPE SPANo. A15 Moonbay Plaza, Dongcheng / 隐逸Spa, 东城区金月湾广场A15号铺 / 22239039No. D09-10 Hujing Yihao, Henggang, Houjie / 厚街镇横岗湖景一号庄园地铺D09-10 / 8122 5699

SONG SPA10am-12pm / Hyatt Regency Hotel, Qinyuan Rd, Science and Technology Industrial Park, Songshan Lake / 松山湖凯悦酒店, 东莞市松山湖科技产业园区中心区沁园路 / 22891234

SOPHIE’S NAIL SALON10am-9pm / No. 11 Qifeng View, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 东城区星河传说旗峰天下11号铺 / 23053066

VETSCOSSET9am-9pm / No. 33-35 Qifeng View, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 东城东路旗峰天下３０－３１号 / 22765176

DR. DENG’S ANIMAL HOSPITALDG’s most renowned vet will take care of your pets. Usually English friendly8am-9pm / No. 7 Heng St, Qiantou Xing Rd, Dongcheng / 邓惠群动物医院, 东城区堑头兴路横街七号 / 22204862, 13712652673

EDUCATIONSCHOOLS

ETONHOUSE INT’L SCHOOL8am-5pm / Dynatown, Dongcheng East Road, Dongcheng / 东城区东城东路星河传说 / 220387778am-5pm / No. 19 Guangchang North Road, Gaobu / 高埗镇广场北路19号 / 88785333

DONGGUAN HANLIN EXPERIMENTAL SCHOOL8am-8pm / No. 5 Chuangye Rd, Wangjiang / 东莞市翰林实验学校, 东莞市万江区创业路五号 / 19902462032

ISD INT’L SCHOOLNo. 11 Jinfeng South Rd, Nancheng / 东莞文盛国际学校, 南城区金丰南路11号 / 28825882

QSI INT’L SCHOOL8:30am-5pm / No. 8 Yuwu Business St, Dongcheng / 东城区余屋商业街8号(榴花公园地铁站附近) / 22300131

ST BEES DONGGUANNo. 121, Xinnan Rd, Hadi, Nancheng / 圣比斯（东莞），南城区蛤地新南路121号 / 21683207

TLC INT’L SCHOOL8:30am-3:30pm / Yu Qingli Industrial Garden, Guanchang Rd, Niushan, Dongcheng / 东城区牛山莞长路余庆里工业园(原以诺威家具厂) / 15220317733, 13794945725

TUNGWAH WENZELINT’L SCHOOL8:30am-6pm / No. 13, 15, 17, 19 Keyuan Rd, Songshan Lake High-Tech Industrial Zone, Songshan Lake / 东华文泽学校, 东莞市松山湖高新技术产业园科苑路13, 15, 17, 19号 / 86523803

UTAHLOY INT’L SCHOOL ZENGCHENG8:30am-5:30pm / Sanjiang Town, Zengcheng City / 增城誉德莱国际学校, 广东增城市三江镇 / (020) 82913201

LANGUAGEEF ENGLISH9am-9pm / No. B200 Yulan Area, Central Square, Yuanmei Rd, Nancheng / 南城区元美路中心广场玉兰休闲街区B200号 / 4001123588

LONDON BRIDGES ACADEMYMO - SA 10am-9pm / Room 403 4F, Bldg 33 IEO, Dynatown, Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 东城区东城东路229号星河新天地33号楼4楼403 / 22663890

WISDOM LANGUAGETRAINING CENTER 8am-6pm / No. 284 Dongcheng Rd (East Town Center), Dongcheng / 东城街道东城路东城段284号(东城中心A2门） / 23019096


ROYAL SOCIETY ENGLISH 10am-9pm / No. 210 Bldg 19, Guangdong 33 Town, Dongsheng Rd, Dongcheng / 东莞市东城区33小镇19栋2楼210 / 13268883611

SUNRISE CHINESE TRAINING CENTER9am-9:30pm / No. 51 Begonia Rd, New World Garden, Dongcheng / 晓阳学习中心, 东城区新世界花园海棠路51号1楼 / 22380256 9am-9:30pm / 2F B28 Yonghuating Walking Street, Dongcheng / 晓阳学习中心, 东城区风情步行街B28二楼 / 23010456

HOTELS

CHANG’ANPARKLANE HOTELNo. 1 Jinxiu Rd, Chang’an / 柏宁长安国际酒店, 东莞市长安镇锦绣路1号 / 85333333

PULLMAN DONGGUAN CHANG’AN No. 38 Jinghai Middle Rd, Shatou Village, Chang’an / 君源铂尔曼酒店, 东莞市长安镇沙头社区靖海中路38号 / 81668888

DONGCHENGDONGCHENGINT’L HOTELNo. 9 Dongcheng East Rd, Dongcheng / 东城国际酒店, 东城区东城东路9号 / 22668888

GLOBAL BUSINESS HOTELGlobal Plaza, Dongcheng Ave, Dongcheng / 世博商务酒店, 东城区东城大道世博广场 / 22762222

HILLVIEW GOLF RESORT Ying Bin Rd, Dongcheng / 东莞峰景高尔夫酒店, 东城区迎宾路 / 22699999

HOTEL IBISDoncheng Middle Rd, Dongcheng / 东莞东城宜必思酒店, 东城区东城中路 / 88778111

PULLMAN DONGGUAN FORUM No.32 Dongcheng Middle Rd, Dongcheng / 东莞旗峰山铂尔曼酒店, 东城区东城中路32号 / 23368888

TANGLA DONGGUAN No. 8 Ying Bin Rd, Dongcheng / 东莞唐拉雅秀酒店, 东城区迎宾路8号 / 22698888

WANDA VISTA DONGGUAN HOTELNo.208 Dongzong Rd, Dongcheng / 东莞富力万达文华酒店, 东城区东纵路208号 / 22001888

HOUJIEHOUJIE INT’L HOTEL Intersection of Dongfeng Rd and S256 Provincial Highway, Houjie / 厚街国际大酒店, 厚街镇东风路与S256省道交汇处 / 85088888

REGAL PALACE HOTELNo. 1 Furniture Boulevard, Houjie / 嘉华大酒店, 东莞市厚街镇家具大道1号 / 85928888

SHERATON HOTELS256 Provincial Highway, Houjie / 东莞喜来登大酒店, 厚街镇S256省道莞太路段 / 85988888

HUMENGRAND NOBLE HOTEL No. 121 Humen Ave, Humen / 东莞豪门大饭店, 东莞市虎门镇虎门大道121号 / 85117888

GRAND MERCUREDONGGUAN HUMENNO.123 Humen Da Dao, Humen / 东莞汇源雅高美爵酒店，虎门大道123号 / 85244888

MELS WELDON DONGGUAN HUMENHuanghe Tower, Humen Avenue, Humen / 东莞虎门美思威尔顿酒店, 虎门镇虎门大道黄河商业城 / 82888888

NANCHENGDONGGUAN EXHIBITION INT’L HOTELNorth Exhibition Rd, Central Square, Nancheng / 东莞会展国际大酒店, 南城区新城市中心会展北路 / 22889999

KANDE INT’L HOTEL Haide Square, No. 200 Hongfu Rd, Nancheng / 东莞康帝国际酒店, 南城区南城区鸿福路200号海德广场 / 28688888

SONGSHAN LAKEALOFT DONGGUAN Vanke Plaza, Songshan Lake High Tech Development Zone, Songshan Lake / 东莞松山湖雅乐轩酒店, 东莞市松山湖高新技术开发区万科生活广场 / 82106666

HYATT REGENCY Qinyuan Rd, Science and Technology Industrial Park, Songshan Lake / 凯悦酒店, 东莞市松山湖科技产业园区中心区沁园路 / 22891234

SILVERWORLD HOTELNo. 2 Hongmian Rd, Songshan Lake / 银丰逸居酒店, 东莞市松山湖开发区红棉路2号 / 22899899

he Chinese President Xi Jinping has had a busy week the last few days, attending a flurry of important regional meetings that

set out the stall as concerns China’s foreign policy.

These are not well covered meetings at all in the United States or European Union media as neither body is involved to any great degree. However, this does not mean they are of no interest—in fact, many of them involve policy decisions that impact both, affecting billions of people and accounting for over 60 percent of total global GDP.

Businesses, investors and analysts within the U.S., and especially the EU, should be paying attention to these summits as decisions made and commitments agreed at these also impact their own future economic development, supply chains and trade corridors with Asia and Eurasia.

This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, meetings were held in virtual format, and included the meetings below.

APEC 2020 SummitThis year’s meeting was virtually hosted by Malaysia, and was attended by the

presidents of Chile, China, Indonesia, South Korea, Peru, Philippines, Russia and the United States; the prime ministers of Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam; the Sultan of Brunei; the Chief Executive of Hong Kong; the Economic Minister of Mexico; and the Representative of the President of Taiwan.

APEC’s member economies are home to around 2.9 billion people and represent approximately 60 percent of global GDP and 48 percent of world trade. Total GDP of APEC nations was about US$50.2 trillion in 2019.

Brief highlights: ● Work continuing on potential FTAAP Free Trade Agreement ● COVID-19 vaccine and food security supply chains being developed ● Commitment to digitization innovation, infrastructure and e-commerce● Asian hopes for better engagement from incoming U.S. President Biden

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis

Understanding China’s Foreign PolicyAn overview of Xi Jinping’s meetings with APEC, BRICS, the East Asia Summit and the

Shanghai Cooperation Organization in November 2020.

BUSINESS


APEC’s member economies are home to around 2.9 billion people and represent approximately 60 percent of global GDP and 48 percent of world trade.

KNOW HOW

BRICS 2020 Summit The 2020 BRICS summit was hosted by Russia. Combined, the BRICS nations of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa have a population of approximately 3.1 billion people—some 41 percent of the global population and 18 percent of global trade.

They are especially useful to China as it is a pan-continental forum, and provides a platform for China to get involved with the Latin American trade bloc of Mercosur through the attendance of Brazil, as well as the African Continental Free Trade Area via South Africa.

Brief highlights: ● Massive cooperation in research, production, and distribution of COVID vaccines● Proposals to offer vaccines at low cost and develop supply chains● Calls to waive COVID-19 patent protections to reduce consumer costs● Some estimates that BRICS economies will account for 50 percent of global GDP by 2030

East Asia 2020 Summit This was the 15th East Asian Summit and was hosted by Vietnam. The grouping includes the ASEAN bloc (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam), together with Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Russia and the United States.

ASEAN holds the central role and leadership in the forum. EAS meetings are held after the annual ASEAN leaders’ meetings, playing an important role in the regional development of Asia-Pacific. This year, the RCEP free trade deal was agreed at this event.

Brief highlights:● USD186 billion RCEP Free Trade Agreement signed ● Differences of opinion over South China Sea arbitration● Refocus on development of smart cities, digital tech cooperation ● Four declarations on marine sustainability, epidemics prevention, women peace and security, and regional growth all released

Shanghai Cooperation Organization 2020 Summit Moscow hosted this year’s event, which included the presidents of full Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) members— China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan—together with observer member states Belarus, Mongolia, Iran, and Afghanistan, with dialogue partners Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Nepal, Turkey and Sri Lanka.

Guests included the ASEAN nations, CIS, Turkmenistan, the United Nations, and World Bank. SCO member states account for around 42 percent of the world’s population, 22 percent of the land area, and around 20 percent of global GDP. It effectively covers most of Eurasia and Asia up until the European Union and is a vital part of China’s Belt & Road interconnectivity plans.

Brief highlights: ● Better research and supply chain integration and cooperation in fighting COVID-19● Establishment of an epidemiological safety network● Calls for mutual trade settlement in national currencies

SummaryAs can be seen, a great deal of effort is being put into COVID-19 vaccine development and distribution. This will have a lasting impact, as new research cooperation is beginning between countries, most noticeably among the BRICS group. Additionally, as Asia looks to a post-COVID world, some of these collaborations and improved supply chains are going to filter down into everyday manufacturing and product distribution networks. This is especially true of trade and logistics delivery developments between Asia and Africa. Russia too, with its technical expertise, is looking to be far more involved in Asia and Africa than ever before. All will impact on future manufacturing hubs being developed across the globe, being additionally enhanced by trade incentives, such as the tariff reductions that deals like RCEP provide, a theme also taken up by the APEC summits.

The question mark revolves around the future participation of the U.S. in the region. President Trump’s appearance at APEC has not made any impact except for a brief late, tired and sulky cameo. President-elect Joe Biden, meanwhile, has a lot of problems to solve in the U.S., and we feel it unlikely he will be rolling back any trade concessions soon. India’s decision to pull out of RCEP has also minimized its regional clout. Having said that, the U.S. may make more of an effort to target India as an alternative to China, although that means taking on the country’s powerful business leadership, not keen on opening up their markets.

China, however, is doing more to open up its domestic markets, along with the rest of ASEAN, Australia, and New Zealand. Japan and South Korea, despite their RCEP commitments, have traditionally been hard to penetrate and may still prove elusive to access. Russia, meanwhile, is in a desperate search for new markets after its sanctions problems and is turning to Asia to solve these. Understanding how this all fits together is becoming increasingly important.

This article was first published in China Briefing. Since its establishment in 1992, Dezan Shira & Associates has been guiding foreign clients through Asia’s complex regulatory environment and assisting them with all aspects of legal, accounting, tax, internal control, HR, payroll, and audit matters. As a full-service consultancy with operational offices across China, Hong Kong, India, and ASEAN, we are your reliable partner for business expansion in this region and beyond. For inquiries, please email us at [email protected]. Further information about our firm can be found at: www.dezshira.com.

As Asia looks to a post-COVID world, some of these collaborations and improved supply chains are going to filter down into everyday manufacturing and product distribution networks


n 1988, Sophie Yuen arrived in Shenzhen with only 400 RMB and a desire to be independent. Today, after working for years with locals

and Brazilian expats in the shoe-making industry of Dongguan, she has worked her way to success and established herself as a prominent businesswoman and career consultant in the region.

As a young girl growing up in Chongqing, Sophie learned to be diligent and honest from her uncle’s strict parenting and work ethic, but often longed for something more. She found a reflection of herself in Jane Eyre; like Jane, Sophie couldn’t wait to “fly away” from her uncle’s home and become independent. To do that, she knew she had to study hard and do well in school. Even then, her determination to succeed was evident.

Sophie taught English upon graduating from university, but was not in her element within the hierarchy of the university because she could not speak up as much as she wanted to. When she turned 23, Sophie moved to Shenzhen in search of new opportunities.

While the traits of being a tough leader accumulated through her childhood, it was also developed in Sophie’s early Shenzhen years. For her first job, she knocked on every door of Guo Mao building for 15 floors until she found a company that was hiring. From there—typewriting for China Northeast Company—she began the next step in her struggle for independence.

After self-learning how to use the company’s advanced typewriter and getting hospitalized due to her low salary and banana-only lunches, Sophie ended up working as the admin manager in US Shoes


WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

Sophie Yuen’s unmatched perseverance has shaped her into the strong yet empathetic leader she is today.

By Sabrina Chu

Chasing Freedom and Success

in 1995, which was bought by Paramont in the following year.

Sophie helped set up Paramont’s first office in the Land Bureau building in front of Yonghuating. She also hired Brazilian expats, many of them from Novo Hamburgo and Campo Bom, for their shoe expertise. As admin manager, Sophie worked with her Brazilian husband to train the Chinese and Brazilian staff to resolve problems caused by cultural differences. “I achieved my professional success, and I got my financial freedom through this job.”

Suddenly, in 2010, Sophie discovered that she was diagnosed with phase

2 breast cancer. The diagnosis suspended Sophie’s professional ambitions and gave her countless questions. Why her? Why now, when she was finally feeling the success of her hard work? Throughout the five months where she went through

grueling surgery, recovery and chemo treatment, Sophie

continued to work from home.

Luckily, 10 years after her treatment, Sophie’s cancer was finally gone. From her experience, she learned

lifelong lessons. As she was going through treatment, she

realized that “people in the office can live without

me. But my family, my son [and] my husband, they need me.” She reevaluated life and found that she was being too harsh and not prioritizing herself enough.

Besides starting the well-known Sophie’s

Nail Salon, Sophie has also made it her mission to uplift other people in realizing their personal dreams.

For her first job, she knocked on every door of Guo Mao building for 15 floors until she found a company that was hiring.

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