Pier 1929
Eat
“While it may be tempting to eat out now that the dining restrictions have eased, we should remain vigilant and avoid visiting crowded areas. For this reason, I recommend visiting Pier 1929 in Wan Chai. The venue boasts a size of over 10,000 square feet and is currently seating less than half its capacity. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon tea set (with champagne) along with 270-degree panoramic views of Victoria Harbour. The lobster and peach salad, brioche toast, and the New York Cheesecake are my favourite. Do book in advance and request for a window seat – you would not want to miss the sunshine while enjoying these delicious treats.” – Arthur Lui CPA (practising), Finance Manager, Standard Club Management (Asia) Pte. Limited
Read
“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has entered its third month. The conflict has seen thousands of people lose their lives and triggered a massive refugee crisis in Europe. I recommend reading the book Why We Fight: The Roots of War and the Paths to Peace by Christopher Blattman during this difficult time. The book speaks on why most rivals loathe one another in times of peace. Blattman, who is a faculty member at The Pearson Institute for the Study and Resolution of Global Conflicts at the University of Chicago, contends that countries should find ways to compromise, in order to avoid the high cost of violence and war. The book lays out the root causes of war by analysing the five reasons why conflict sometimes still wins over compromise and how peacemakers can turn the tides during war. This is a book that sheds light on how conflict turns into war and also how to prevent it from occurring. It is worth reading, especially amid this intense situation.” – Derek Lo CPA, Senior Consultant, Deloitte China
Sergei Rachmaninoff
Listen
“Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 18 is a masterpiece composed by Sergei Rachmaninoff, a piano virtuoso and composer of the late romantic and early contemporary period. At the time of composing, Rachmaninoff was experiencing a difficult time and was seeking a cure for his four-year-long period of depression with the help of his psychiatrist. Each movement expresses the intense emotions he was going through while composing this concerto, including turbulence, melancholy, passion and longing. Sit back and listen to this inspiring and gorgeous piece – it will help you ease your stress and take a load off your mind.” – Charis Wong CPA, Senior Tax Manager, PwC
