EDITOR’S LETTER
Preparing this issue was a bittersweet experience in many ways. What normally would be a joyous time filled with parties and holiday preparations were instead some of the most difficult days we as Hongkongers have had or will ever have to endure. But if there’s anything I’ve learned in my dozen years in this city, it’s that Hong Kong is resilient and full of wonderful people, places and qualities to celebrate and cherish.
Take for example our cover star, Karena Lam. The Canadian-born actress first wowed local audiences in her debut film, July Rhapsody. In the 17 years since, she’s made Hong Kong her home – appearing in more than 30 films, winning multiple awards and raising two daughters with her director husband Steve Yuen. We caught up with her ahead of her and Yuen’s latest release, this month’s thriller Declared Legally Dead, and were instantly charmed by her optimistic and creative approach to life.
This being December, of course we’ve still got the holidays on the brain. Turn to page 76 for our Christmas special, a lavish photo shoot by Until Chan at Rosewood Hong Kong and some gift-giving inspiration from the Prestige team’s very own letters to Santa.
We also look back at the best of 2019, from James Suckling’s top 10 wines – out of 25,000 tasted – to our favourite discoveries among the hundreds, if not thousands, of beauty products we tested and dozens of industry professionals we met.
In our Indulgence section, writer Fontaine Cheng introduces us to a chef who’s set to wow diners in the year ahead. Mitsuhiro Araki brings multiple Michelin stars and a bold new vision for traditional sushi restaurants to his new outpost at House 1881. Senior editor Jon Wall, meanwhile, reports back from his latest “joy” ride in the Porsche Macan S.
It’s difficult to predict what will happen in Hong Kong in the months ahead, but we hope this issue shows there’s much to enjoy and be thankful for. And with that, we wish you a very merry Christmas and all the best for a joyous New Year.