DISCO fever

Often called Disco Bay or simply DB, residents of Discovery Bay describe living in Hong Kong's largest resort-style residential area as a vibrant community within a community. They say the mix of residential properties, open areas and recreational amenities allow the community to integrate and form friendly relationships.

Consisting of development phases with properties ranging from garden houses to apartments in high-rise towers of up to 29 storeys, Discovery Bay even has its own internet forum, providing a conduit for organising social events, workshops and networking activities.

Residents say because of the forum, people have been able to change jobs, rent exclusive holiday apartments in exotic locations and spark relationships that have led to marriage.

Melanie Krepp, real estate consultant with Sotheby's International Realty (Hong Kong), believes Discovery Bay is ideal for families who enjoy taking part in a wide range of activities. 'Having no vehicles in Discovery Bay is also great for your health because of less pollution. There is also the encouragement to exercise by visiting shops by bike or walking,' Krepp says.

She says the focal point of business and social activity is centred around the Plaza, a commercial hub featuring a bus terminus, ferry pier and an open piazza.

The Plaza also has a range of shops, including a supermarket, speciality stores, clinics, and a vet to serve the large population of pet owners.

While there are no private vehicles allowed in Discovery Bay, about 500 golf carts and some 60 other vehicles (buses, light buses, hire cars and goods vehicles) operate on the private roads. Ferries between Discovery Bay and Central, which takes about 25 minutes, operate 24 hours a day.