If it's Open time, it must be early December and the good weather is waning so get thee to Fanling for one of the few pristine weekends before winter's grey sets in. But don't you dare show up unless you know the A-Z's of this year's Open.
A is for atmosphere. Unlike that other high-profile major Hong Kong sporting event - the one held in March - there are no painted faces and stupid costumes at the Open. But don't let the serenity fool you. The potential for a party always exists because . . .
B is for booze. There is no shortage of it so sit down and have a drink. You earned it. Enjoy the crisp late autumn day with a cooling libation or three and make sure you avoid any members of the media because rumour has it they have access to free beer. And as everybody knows, when it comes to free drinks, the press is all over it like a hobo on a ham sandwich.
C is for carousing and should you see any members of this year's Open field out late around town, well, bite your tongue because you are out late as well and also because . . .
D is for discreet.
E is for European Tour. The players on this tour may have a little less change in their pockets than their princely cousins on the PGA Tour, but their skills are still almost on par. Throw in their amiable and accessible nature with the galleries and few people will miss the big names from the US tour.