Dear Mr. Know-It-All,
I would like to take a “staycation” with the whole family, preferably in a relaxing rural area of Hong Kong. Anywhere that allows small, well-mannered dogs to come along?
Pet Lover

For a family-friendly trip with fantastic activities to keep the kids more than occupied, why not try visiting Long Coast Seasport? (29 Lower Cheung Sha village, Lantau Island, 8104-6222) Ideal for the reluctant camper, this vaction spot offers chic air-conditioned tents equipped with camping matresses. Another perfect venue for a staycation is Concerto Inn (28 Hung Shing Yeh Beach, Yung Shue Wan, Lamma Island, 2982-1662), a guesthouse located right on the beach with garden or beach view family rooms available. If you’re looking for a private rental, your best bet would be to study the wall by the ferry pier at Yung Shue Wan, where good-value rentals are frequently posted.


Dear Mr. Know-It-All,
Can you please give the addresses of good and reliable tailors who can make a wedding dress for my daughter? She’s seen a gorgeous designer dress and would love something inspired by the design. It is made from mikado (or other heavy) silk and the color is off-white.
Blushing Mum

Living vicariously through your daughter, hey? Masters of transforming Thai (heavy) silks, chiffon and satin into wedding dresses, Siriporn (1B, Merlin Building, 28 Cochrane St., Central, 2866-6668) will resurrect your (I mean her) designer gown to matrimonial reality in just three to four weeks. Other choices would be COMMIX Workshop (Unit D, 10/F, Wing Tat Commercial Building, 121-125 Wing Lok St., Sheung Wan, 6851-0748) and Athena Valorus (1402, 14/F, Double Building, 22 Stanley St., Central, 2111-3700), who will both tailor-make a picture perfect wedding dress for you (er—your daughter), just  be sure to book an appointment with them first.