Dear Mr. Know-It-All,
Do you know of any good cooking schools? I’m sick and tired of other people complaining about my food!
Top Chef

You didn’t mention any specifics, so Mr. Know-It-All has found you a school that teaches everything from Chinese and Asian dishes to Western cuisine. Towngas Cooking Centre (Basement, Leighton Centre, 77 Leighton Rd., Causeway Bay, 2576-1535) offers courses on individual dishes, providing hands-on experience and personalized attention from the instructors. You can even take home your creations, before showing off your skills at your next dinner party. 


Dear Mr. Know-It-All,
I have a full-size suitcase that I love, but after one too many trips the wheels have broken. Do you know where I can have them repaired?
Jetsetter

Great Wall Leather Goods (20 Old Bailey St., Central, 2815-1026) should be able to help. Bring your case there and the staff will tell you whether it can be fixed, and provide a quote. Be warned: the shop is quite hidden and always looks closed. But once inside, you’ll find someone to help you. The owner speaks excellent English.


Dear Mr. Know-It-All,
I’d like to know where I can buy hiking
maps for Hong Kong and the New Territories
(similar to those produced by the UK Ordnance Survey, if possible). Are there any specialist map shops here?
Lost in Tai Tam

There is no need to feel lost, LITT. Hong Kong’s Lands Department produces a “Countryside Series” of maps designed to assist hikers and nature lovers. They are printed in color on double-sided, waterproof and environmentally friendly synthetic paper. You can purchase the maps ($62) from the Map Publications Centre (23/F, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Rd., North Point, 2231-3187) or online at www.bookstore.gov.hk.