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Next-Level Hospitality: How Hong Kong’s Hotels are Helping Out

Hong Kong's ever-changing dining scene is constantly evolving.

So much so, that it can get a little difficult to keep track of it all, let alone remember to book and try the new restaurants that have caught your eye. From brand new concepts to fresh venues and additional locations, here is our guide to seven of Hong Kong's most promising new restaurants to try right now.

Well, what are you waiting for...

The post Next-Level Hospitality: How Hong Kong’s Hotels are Helping Out appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hotel Review: K11 Artus is The Luxury Residence You Want to Call Your Own

Whether it's a luxury residence or an artisanal home, K11 Artus is not the hotel you think it might be.

K11 Artus officially opened its doors at the end of last year as Hong Kong's first 'artisanal home' concept made for cultural creatives from around the world. Its name reflects this vision by combining the words art and the Latin term for home, domus, to become Artus. So, rather than a hotel in the conventional sense, K11 Artus is really a full serviced residence with all the privacy and luxury that a five-star hotel would have.

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Location: 10/10

The newly developed Victoria Dockside lends its phenomenal harbour vistas to K11 Artus, gifting it with a view worth staying the night for. Directly linked to the huge retail destination that is K11 Musea, and only a few steps away from the Avenue of Stars promenade, the luxury residences benefit from prime location. It's also conveniently situated in close proximity to Tsim Sha Tsui station and the Star Ferry Pier which makes coming and going extremely easy. Furthermore, the location offers plenty of entertainment in the form of other shopping malls, designer boutiques and museums nearby.

Design: 9/10

A super sleek and ridged exterior wraps the building before revealing an eclectic interior developed by Hong Kong's celebrated designer Andre Fu. Inside, the 21-floored residence boasts high ceilings which allows a lot of natural light to come through, creating bright and lofty spaces which are filled with modern design elements, especially on the 10th floor lobby-library. Here, neutral tones meet warm earthy accents enriched with lush textures and furnishings. Similar sentiments run throughout the residences, with Asian decorative touches and objets dotted across all the rooms. The spaces are so intriguing you can spend a fair few minutes to hours in awe of the design as a whole.

Ambience: 8/10

K11 Artus is the newest cool kid on the luxury living block and stepping into the building makes you feel like one too. Possessing the right amount of style, which actually feels very cultural but not in the hush hush gallery sense, combined with an overall luxurious ambience, Artus feels opulent yet inviting. During our stay, it felt very peaceful during the day and through the evening with mostly younger families and couples spotted.

Rooms: 8/10

Arranged over 14 floors, K11 Artus' 287 residences span comfortable studios to practical one, two and three-bedroom spaces, to 3 uniquely designed penthouses, 80 percent of which, offer wrap-around balconies. We stayed in the harbour-facing one bedroom residence which came complete with a study room and balcony. Individually furnished and decorated, all the rooms are fitted out with all the home and hotel comforts you can think of: minibar, espresso maker, TV, cable channels, refrigerator, kitchenette, designer toiletries and slippers. It's just a shame that the bathtub in our room had a plug issue, which wasn't resolved.

Service & Facilities: 9/10

The service at K11 Artus is very warm. The team know your name, always smile and seem genuinely happy to help and chat. They're quick too, considering they aren't exactly a hotel. However, this was obvious in other areas such as the aforementioned bathroom issue. Facilities include a 24-hour fitness centre, 24-hour front desk, and concierge service, as well as dry cleaning and laundry service. The restaurant offers breakfast, with continental or Chinese options, at an additional cost.

Food & Drink: 7/10

Within K11 Artus there is one restaurant: The Commune, a bar and lounge: The Chamber and a snack/bar area: The Living Salon. Luckily, K11 Musea itself has some great eateries to choose from, but within the hotel, options are limited. There is also an option to order in, from selected K11 Musea restaurants, directly from your TV. At The Commune, in which we had lunch, both European and Chinese options are available. We opted to share a sandwich and pasta dish, both of which had room for improvement.

 

Rates: start from HK$3,600/night for the Artus Studio to HK$28,000/night for the Artus Three Bedroom with Harbour View. Prices for penthouse options require a quote depending on dates. The price may vary depending on availability and season.


Rating: 8.5/10

Perfect for: a stylish stay in modern luxury, filled with art and inspiration.

The post Hotel Review: K11 Artus is The Luxury Residence You Want to Call Your Own appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hotel Review: The Peninsula Remains The Elegant Grande Dame of Hong Kong

As the oldest hotel in Hong Kong, The Peninsula is not only considered the 'Grande Dame of the Far East' but it's also the flagship of the Peninsula Hotels group.

The hotel opened its doors in 1928 and has been serving guests a slice of old world glamour and elegance since. Today, the brand's majestic interiors and grandeur, along with its impeccable services, remain -- marking The Peninsula as one of the leading luxury hotel brands in Asia, if not the world.

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Location: 9/10

Sitting on the southern tip of the Kowloon Peninsula (hence its name), the hotel is presented with some of the brightest and most stunning views of Victoria Harbour. It's situated in bustling Tsim Sha Tsui, which may feel too busy for some, but for most it is conveniently located. There is plenty of entertainment in the form of designer stores and museums nearby. A short five minute walk will take you to Tsim Sha Tsui Ferry Terminal and the MTR station, allowing travel to and from Hong Kong Island and elsewhere an easy trip. Meanwhile, its own helipad and private helicopter enables the easy coming and going in the most private manner.

 

Design: 9/10

The hotel debuted as a six-story building in 1928 and received an additional 30-floor Tower in 1994 to become The Peninsula as we know it. Its charm lies in the heritage and traditions which has not only been kept extremely well (no tacky or overly regal elements here) but also has a sense of modernity, thanks to the multicultural design blending both Eastern and Western elements excellently. The Chinese lions and deities, which according to tradition guards and wards off evil spirits, are painted on the glass doors in the lobby, while the columns are carved with 76 different gargoyle faces, and other antiques and historical artefacts are displayed around the hotel.

 

Ambience: 10/10

Even before you set foot into the hotel, the Rolls-Royce in the forecourt, in which they have an impressive fleet of fifteen including one vintage 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II, sets the tone. Thereafter, page boys dressed in traditional whites open the door to reveal the expansive lobby and interior. The Peninsula exudes a sense of opulence without ever feeling too heavy or gaudy, it's a masterful way to present luxury which feels comfortable, and sumptuous all at once. During our stay, we observed a variety of guests from families old and young, to business travellers and local residents and couples enjoying a staycation in the city.

 

Rooms: 9/10

With 300 guest rooms (165 in the original building and 135 in The Tower), including 52 suites and two ultra-luxurious suites: the Marco Polo Suite and the Peninsula Suite, The Peninsula's offering is wide ranging -- from Deluxe rooms with courtyard or harbour views to more Superior and Grand Deluxe suites. Understated elegance is the main feature throughout, with all rooms outfitted with contemporary furnishings, including touch-screen tablets that control lighting, temperature, curtains, room service and entertainment at the touch of a button. The marble bathrooms are equipped with walk-in showers and TVs in front of the bathtub. There are also built-in nail dryers in case you forgot how extravagant your experience could be.

 

Service & Facilities: 10/10

There is a great sense of camaraderie among the staff at The Peninsula. It's no wonder that the hotel has some of the longest-serving members there, with over 36 employees having worked for 30 years and more than 108 for 20 years. The service is outstanding. As always, the staff are polite, friendly and helpful, but there's also a genuine feeling that they all care a lot about the hotel and are proud to be working here. There is an indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna and a fitness centre with an open-air terrace while parking and laundry services are available too.

 

Food & Drink: 10/10

The Peninsula offers eight restaurants and lounges – two of which are Michelin-starred establishments: French fine dining restaurant Gaddi's and exquisite Chinese restaurant Spring Moon. Other highlights include the Philippe Starck designed space Felix which offers modern European dishes and cocktails with topfloor views; Swiss restaurant Chesa offering fondue and raclette in an Alpine chalet setting; The Lobby which has offered one of Hong Kong's loveliest afternoon teas for over 80 years; and The Bar for sips of fine spirits and whiskies paired with live piano jazz.

 

Rates: start from HK$3,200/night for the Deluxe Room (or HK$5,400/night with Club Level), to HK$26,000/night for the Carlton Suite (which includes Club Level). The price may vary depending on availability and season.

 


 

Rating: 9.5/10

 

Perfect for: a memorable staycation filled with elegant yet relaxed opulence.

The post Hotel Review: The Peninsula Remains The Elegant Grande Dame of Hong Kong appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hotel Review: The Ritz-Carlton Brings a Relaxed Atmosphere to Elevated Luxury

The Ritz-Carlton is hard to miss. Towering over Hong Kong, on the top floors of the International Commerce Centre (ICC)'s 102nd and 118th floor, the hotel glistens in the sky above the Kowloon peninsula. And with it, comes some of the most spectacular views you could ever wish to see in this city.

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Location: 8/10

Perched at the top of the ICC, the location of The Ritz-Carlton grants it some stellar views and that in itself is one of its biggest selling points here. It's also situated just above the Elements mall, which is great if you're in need of some designer shopping action or dining options. Kowloon MTR station is also within the mall, making the trip from airport to hotel a quick 30 minutes. However, signage for the hotel inside is a little confusing and can lead you astray -- making what should be a short walk, a lengthy mall trek.

 

Design: 8/10

Less than a decade old, The Ritz-Carlton has been very smart in their design choices. The interiors are well kept and has remained looking modern and elegant, while the overall feel, as a business hotel, seems rather timeless. Drawing guests in with its showmanship, the hotel's high-speed lifts take a mere 80 seconds to reach the 103rd floor from the ground level up, and continue to capture their attention with the stunning panoramic view. This takes centre stage on all floors, with floor to ceiling windows throughout creating bright and shiny spaces.

 

Ambience: 8/10

You might expect The Ritz-Carlton to be rather stuffy -- sitting at the top of Hong Kong -- but actually the vibe here is really quite relaxed. The guests are a mixture of business, families (both old and young), and couples travelling to Hong Kong or on a luxury staycation. The atmosphere is positively warm and the teams of friendly staff reflect that extremely well.

 

Rooms: 7/10

We stayed in the Deluxe Victoria Harbour Room, and enjoyed 24-hour Club Lounge access during our visit too. The sizeable 540 sq. ft. room is straightforward with a contemporary design; think clean lines, beige and earthy tones with plush textiles punctuated by polished surfaces and dark wood. A separate bathtub and rainforest shower are the main features of the marble bathroom, as well as the added bonus of a double sink. Other room highlights included the 42-inch flat screen LCD TV, 400-thread count lined King Bed, London's Asprey bath amenities, Nespresso machine, laundry and valet services.

 

Service & Facilities: 9/10

Speaking of laundry services, we received one of the most efficient pressing services we've had during our stay (less than one hour). But the teams here are not only prompt, they're incredibly affable. It is smiles all round, with most staff introducing themselves and more than willing to strike up a conversation. It's worth considering a Club floor upgrade if it isn't included in room category. As, along with the usual first-rate service, you'll also get swift check-in at the club lounge (or you can head directly to your room), and 5 meal presentations a day (Afternoon Tea included) along with dedicated concierge service.

 

Food & Drink: 8/10

With six dining venues available to all, guests are spoilt for choice at The Ritz-Carlton. Especially since it includes Michelin-starred restaurants such as Tosca di Angelo, which serves up inventive Italian cuisine, and Tin Lung Heen, which offers high-end Cantonese fare worthy of its two star status. Meanwhile, Ozone, the world’s highest bar delivers creative cocktails, sushi, tapas and its popular Sunday brunch. However, with Club Level access, we spent most of our time in the Club Lounge and though service (along with drinks) was indeed top notch, the food unfortunately fell slightly short.

 

Rates: start from HK$3,200/night for the Deluxe Room (or HK$5,400/night with Club Level), to HK$26,000/night for the Carlton Suite (which includes Club Level). The price may vary depending on availability and season.

 


 

Rating: 8/10

 

Perfect for: a sumptuous stay with excellently polished service in elevated luxury.

The post Hotel Review: The Ritz-Carlton Brings a Relaxed Atmosphere to Elevated Luxury appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hotel Review: The Landmark Mandarin Oriental is Hong Kong’s Artisan of Luxury and Leisure

It is said that we no longer live in the information age and instead, have entered the era of entertainment. After all, who doesn't like to be entertained?

It is for that very reason that we decided to check into The Landmark Mandarin Oriental's most luxurious offering, the Entertainment Suite. This stunning 1,800 sq. ft. space is designed to truly impress and in addition, is now available as part of a Symphony of Urban Delights package. Think home cinema with state-of-the-art audiovisuals, virtual reality headsets and computer games, entertainment wall with free-flowing wine, unlimited yoga, relaxing massages, dinner at two Michelin-starred Amber and much, much more.

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Location: 10/10

Sitting at the very centre of Hong Kong's business district, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental probably has the most convenient address in terms of going to and from anywhere on Hong Kong island. So convenient in fact, that you needn't go outside to shop at luxury mall The Landmark, or head onto the MTR at Central Station to visit other parts of the city. It's also only a 3 to 5 minute drive to ifc or the Hong Kong Macau ferry terminal, while walking takes under 20 minutes.

 

Design: 9/10

A contemporary and streamlined design runs throughout the hotel. Soft lights meet warm woods and leathers, while plush textiles and brass accents are dotted around the rooms and suites. In addition, the colour palettes range from modern muted teals and olive, to stylish taupes and pebble greys which mingle splendidly with spicy terracottas and rust. The result is a continuous warm autumnal look that feels timeless. Moreover, they are all loaded with technology and gadgets to make the stay more user-friendly and cosy in the best possible manner, too.

 

Ambience: 9/10

Though elegance and luxury is at every corner of The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, it's with a sigh of relief that we found it never to be uptight and always amiable. The hotel also gives off the sense that you are very well looked after; as if your every whim can be indulged. During our stay we noticed mostly business moguls or mature families. No young children were spotted, which makes for a rather peaceful atmosphere. However babysitting services are available to ensure every vacation or staycation is a tranquil one.

 

Rooms: 10/10

Out of all 111 spacious rooms and suites at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, the Entertainment Suite is by far the most luxurious. Here, a whole host of (you guessed it) entertainment is in store for its guests. Whether you're using it to entertain or for private refuge, you can be sure that no one will be bored. As it happens, there are too many room features to list, but to name a few: an entertainment wall is fully stocked with snacks, teas and coffees while a dispenser pours four bottles of wine per stay; a 13 ft. by 11.5 ft. cinema screen drops down while a laser projector and B&O Beolab sound system make the most of your favourite movies; virtual reality headsets and games can take you a different world; the private dining room and kitchen enables easy entertaining; and a FreshBed allows custom climate control for the best sleep. The Entertainment Suite is likely to be the most elaborate room you'll ever stay in and one you find extremely difficult to leave.

 

Service & Facilities: 10/10

From the luxury Hermès amenities and the opulent marble bathtub in the suite, to the indoor pool, fitness centre and award-winning spa, Landmark Mandarin Oriental has it all -- especially with the Symphony of Urban Delights package. This also means that a dedicated butler is assigned to take care of you. In our experience, this meant a quick WhatsApp message for coffee, which was responded to within 2 minutes, followed by a hot brew within 5 minutes. This is luxury service at its best -- prompt, efficient and always catered to the individual.

 

Food & Drink: 10/10

Guests at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental can opt for a number of different wine and dine options including two Michelin-starred Amber; wine and sake-inspired bistro SOMM; all-day dining and cocktails at MO Bar (in which a new Belvedere brunch is now available on weekends); intimate speakeasy bar PDT, three Michelin starred Sushi Shikon and Kappo Rin which offers fresh, modern Japanese cuisine. In this package, dinner for two at Amber or SOMM is included and with Culinary Director Richard Ekkebus at the helm. Prepare to be dazzled by dishes such as the Okinawa corn with Kristal Schrencki caviar and Kamchatka crab with Hass avocado and mikan when dining at Amber.

 

 

Rates: start from HK$58,000/night for the Symphony of Urban Delights package. It is inclusive of round-trip limousine transfer; 24-hour personal butler and concierge; packing & unpacking service; entertainment access to Netflix, PlayStation, Apple Music, Apple Movies; daily champagne breakfast; one luxury dinner for two; drinks for two at the bar; 60-minute massage for two; unlimited group yoga classes; 60-minute personal training session for two; 30-minute in-body composition analysis; daily laundry service; exclusive access to the Bespoke member's Sapphire Salon. Terms and conditions apply. The price may vary depending on availability and season.

 


 

Rating: 9.5/10

 

Perfect for: an indulgent stay in a suite brimming with luxury leisure at Hong Kong's top hotel.

The post Hotel Review: The Landmark Mandarin Oriental is Hong Kong’s Artisan of Luxury and Leisure appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hotel Review: Kerry Hotel Hong Kong is Big, Bright and for More than Business

Leaving Hong Kong Island for Kowloon may not be the farthest you'll travel for a luxury hotel, but it sure does feel like you are exchanging city life for something a little calmer, especially at Kerry Hotel Hong Kong.

The five star brand from the Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts Group has named itself an "urban resort", which has a lot to do with the vast amount of space it stretches over. It also has an incredible vantage point overlooking the Kowloon waterfront, which is definitely one of the better views Hong Kong has to offer. How else does the Kerry Hotel fare? Well, read on for our full review below.

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Location: 8/10

Situated near Hung Hom Pier and Whampoa MTR station, it's safe to say that Kerry Hotel is somewhat well-connected, depending on how you're travelling. There are also private parking facilities at the hotel, which helps if you are driving. Unfortunately, there isn't too much going on in close proximity to the hotel, except for a local residential area and shopping centre. It is however, close enough to walk to the more vibrant part, to Tsim Sha Tsui and a leisurely stroll along the promenade is quite lovely.

 

Design: 9/10

This sixteen storey hotel's interior is designed by none other than Hong Kong's prolific designer André Fu. It makes use of the expansive area it covers with a spacious lobby, floor to ceiling windows and multi levels of al fresco gardens and areas to enjoy. The building itself is curved and creates a fluidity that runs from the outside in, while over sixty percent of the guest rooms offer stunning harbour views. All of which add to the relaxed luxury that Kerry Hotel exudes in a timeless manner.

 

Ambience: 9/10

Thanks to the hotel's design, the relaxed vibe runs throughout. In fact, upon entering, guests may feel swept away by the view in the lobby, as if automatically loosening up the shoulders to ready you for the stay. It's bright and airy, creating an atmosphere that feels positive with a slight buzz of happenings across the hotel. A mix of Chinese and foreign tourists were visiting during our stay, while local families and couples, along with people on business were also seen at the hotel.

 

Rooms: 8/10

The Club Premier Sea View room promises a sea view, and a spectacular sea view is what you'll get. And if uninterrupted sea views don't provide enough entertainment, the complimentary movies and mini bar will. Once again, the timeless design comes into play with muted tones of beige, stone and blue in different textures cut through with warm wood tones dotted around the room. The pillow menu and blackout curtains induce a superb slumber while the bathroom offers a rainfall shower, but sadly no bathtub here.

 

Service & Facilities: 8/10

We arrived and headed straight to reception in the lobby to check in. But of course, with Club access this means you are able to check in at the Club Lounge, which is laden with snacks and drinks. This can take a longer time though, and a little back and forth with passport copies and whatnot may slow you down. However the cheesecake, available during afternoon tea time, will likely make you forget all that. For active visitors, the outdoor pool and 24-hour health club will appeal. But if spa treatments are more your bag, don't forget to check out their Spa in Base Camp to unwind properly.

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Food & Drink: 9/10

There are four restaurants and a bar, complete with an open terrace, at Kerry Hotel. Big Bay Café features a wide array of cuisine and is where breakfast is served. We recommend the Asian hot foods including soup noodles and dim sum. Meanwhile, Hung Tong delivers high end Cantonese fare, Dockyard offers quick-style Asian foods, and Bong-Italian provides dry aged steak and wines. For drinks, the Lobby Lounge mixes up cocktails with a side of Hong Kong-style classic dishes, and Red Sugar, in which we had the chance to enjoy their Long, Lazy Brunch before we left, offers a fantastic Spanish tapas-style spread with stellar views (again) to boot.

 

Rates: From HK$2,200/night for a Deluxe City View Room to HK4,200 for Executive Sea View Suite (prices may vary depending on availability and season). For the Specialty Sea View and Presidential Suites, guests can enquire through +852 3069 9988 or e-mail reservations.khhk@thekerryhotels.com.

 


 

Rating: 8.5/10

 

Perfect for:  relaxing in an expansive yet intimate space with spectacular views.

The post Hotel Review: Kerry Hotel Hong Kong is Big, Bright and for More than Business appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hotel Review: Rosewood Hong Kong Is the Luxury Escape You Didn’t Know You Needed

There's something about Rosewood Hong Kong that instantly makes you feel like you're sitting in the lap of luxury.

It might have something to do with the chauffeur-driven Jaguar that comes to pick you up, but the extravagance continues once you arrive at the hotel. Located within Hong Kong's new art and design district, Victoria Dockside, the global flagship hotel offers a total of 413 guest rooms and suites: Each of them feature the eclectic luxuries of plush furniture, curated art works, exquisite objets d’art, and a lavish, marble-clad bathroom -- not to mention one of the best views money can buy. What more is there to say? This is luxury at its finest. Find out more in our full review below.

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Location: 9/10

Occupying a prime piece of real estate on the harbourfront promenade, Rosewood Hong Kong is not only conveniently located in Tsim Sha Tsui, a shopper's paradise, but it's also part of the 3 million-square-foot urban regeneration project Victoria Dockside, where a cultural blend of art, design, business and retail comes together. In short, there's no shortage of activities in the area. However, if you do need to get to and from work on Hong Kong Island, then this can take upwards of 20 minutes on the road, depending on traffic, and 30 minutes or more on the MTR.

 

Design: 10/10

The building was designed by architecture firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, whose work includes The Landmark Mandarin Oriental and International Commerce Centre in Hong Kong. Their work at  Rosewood reflects Hong Kong's upwards growth in the form of a "vertical estate". Inside, Rosewood's interiors were created by award-winning designer Tony Chi, who showcases the spacious rooms and suites in elegant eccentricity accented by Asian elements. It's totally opulent and yet feels somewhat homely. There's magic in the details, what with contrasting textures, fabrics and finishings which successfully emanate an unconventional luxury. In fact, in some areas of the room, I would say these even clash, but somehow it all works.

 

Ambience: 10/10

Rosewood Hong Kong is the type of place that you can go to escape and take your mind off things -- a stress remedy, if you will. At the same time, the hotel's overall design -- which nods to our city's heritage and culture -- not to mention phenomenal views, combine to make you fall in love with Hong Kong once more. A gentle buzz runs throughout the hotel, but with calm corners for peace of mind dotted around. It's no wonder it attracts families of all ages, which is what we noticed during our stay, along with couples who are in need of a relaxed stay.

 

Rooms: 10/10

The 1,324-sq.-ft. Harbour Corner Suite boasts an expansive layout, with ample lounge areas, a marble bathroom, freeform bathtub, twin sinks and showers, and a walk-in closet. Oh, and in case you forgot, that truly amazing vantage point of the city. All amenities are top-notch and there are a total of three bars in the room; a mini bar (complimentary except for alcoholic beverages), a personal bar with coffees, teas and snacks, and a night bar featuring whisky and calming teas. A suite stay includes a personal butler and 40th-floor Manor Club access, which means afternoon tea and happy hour cocktails are included, too.

 

Service & Facilities: 9/10

Getting picked up in a leather-seated Jaguar XJ or Mercedes Benz Class S320 is quite the luxury, and it's a luxury that Rosewood does so very well. The ride is comfortable to say the least, with WiFi, snacks and water to keep you going until you reach the hotel. Once you arrive and complete check-in inside your suite, you'll notice that the rooms are spotless and little gifts and snacks await, while staff remain well-informed and friendly. However, a bucket of ice that took more than 25 minutes and the lifts which always seem to at a sub-zero temperature, were slight problems for us. As a pet-friendly hotel, guests can also look to bring their dogs or cats with them on their staycation. Asaya, Rosewood’s holistic wellness concept, is also available to guests, as well as an impressive state-of-the-art fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool.

 

Food & Drink: 9/10

There will eventually be a total of eight dining concepts at Rosewood, five of which are already open and offer different food and beverage options to guests. A must-visit is the Chinese and Shunde restaurant The Legacy House, which is already popular with Hong Kong diners. Here, I fully recommend ordering the stewed bamboo shoots with conpoy, or steamed clams if you like seafood, both of which are exemplary examples of the finesse found in Shunde cuisine and the focus on freshness. Elsewhere, the desserts, confections and pastries at Butterfly Patisserie are wonderful to look at and even better to taste, so afternoon tea at The Butterfly Room is worth booking in.

For drinks, head to DarkSide, which pours some mean dark spirits and great cocktails, but bear in mind the live band can get excessively loud. Perhaps it was because we visited on a Saturday night, but be prepared if you're sitting close. Unfortunately for us, Holt's Cafe, which serves international and local cuisine, did not stack up as high as the other outlets. It lacked flavour, and classic dishes such as roasted duck on rice fell flat.

 

Rates: From HK$4,300/night for a Kowloon Peak View Room to HK$35,000/night for a Manor Suite (prices may vary depending on availability and season).

Special Mention: The Rosewood Hong Kong is also offering guests who book from now until 30 December 2019 an Urban Staycation package*. It includes Manor Club access, one-way transfer, HK$1,000 dining credit, a 60-minute Wellness Class and more. On top of that, if you present your Hong Kong or Macau ID, you can receive an additional 10% off the room rate.

*Terms and conditions apply

 


 

Rating: 9.5/10

Perfect for:  a luxurious city escape that makes you fall in love with Hong Kong (again).

The post Hotel Review: Rosewood Hong Kong Is the Luxury Escape You Didn’t Know You Needed appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hotel Review: The St. Regis Hong Kong Promises a Refined and Relaxing Stay

Much like other St. Regis properties around the world, The St. Regis Hong Kong exudes the kind of refined luxury that can subconsciously make you sip your tea with an upturned pinkie finger.

But in reality, there are more layers that define modern luxury in this hotel, from the timeless elegance and creativity of its design, to the highly considerate and bespoke services, to the downright excellent hospitality that lets you know you are always well looked after. Read on for our full review.

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Location: 10/10

Situated in Hong Kong's Wan Chai district, just steps away from the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center (HKCEC), it's no wonder business travellers are choosing to stay here. But for those looking for leisure, you won't be too far from Wan Chai's heritage buildings, boutiques and street-food stalls. What's more, there's plenty of shopping and dining in nearby Causeway Bay, Admiralty, Central, North Point and Quarry Bay, too.

 

Design: 10/10

Thoughtfully designed by celebrated Hong Kong architect and designer André Fu, the interiors of The St. Regis have been left with his signature mark for stylish, polished, and always tasteful design. The hotel's 129 rooms and suites, in particular, benefit from Fu's memories of the city, which reflect an East-meets-West sensibility in the subtlest of ways. Delicate hues of beige, taupe and ivory are juxtaposed with dark wood and pops of colour on lacquer. Its striking yet understated design makes guests feel like they could actually live here forever.

 

Ambience: 10/10

An air of refinement translates into soft voices and manners across the board. It's a lovely atmosphere to enjoy lounging without feeling like you might be ushered away at any moment. It's relaxed with a hushed level of organisation that allows for all those customised services. During our stay, we saw mostly business travellers, a few couples and families (and even fewer children) enjoying the hotel's facilities.

 

Rooms: 9/10

The St. Regis Suite's spacious living area features a functional and contemporary design that you would want to model your own home on. A separate bedroom complete with a king-size bed induces slumber immediately, while a Claybrook bathtub and rain shower call for a few more washes during the day. If we were to nitpick, the only thing lacking would be a better view. The closeness of the cityscape (the hotel is sandwiched between buildings) doesn't warrant much gazing out, but with the hotel being so stunning, you don't really need to look outside to find beauty.

 

Service & Facilities: 8/10

Upon entering our suite, we noticed a few housekeeping issues that were probably due to the fact that a requested early check-in had rushed the staff. Thankfully, they were rectified immediately. Check-in was completed within our suite, which does away with all the queuing and waiting you might experience at other hotels. But the best part? Well, if I could continue living with The St. Regis' signature Butler and e-Butler services, I would die a happy woman. The service is quick, attentive and really quite pleasant. My only judgement is reserved for the fact that every time I called, they would address me with my husband's name, which felt a little old-fashioned in my opinion. A spa, pool, large gym, along with valet parking, laundry on-site and mobility accessible rooms are also available.

 

Food & Drink: 10/10

There are a few options at The St. Regis that are definitely worth trying; these include French fine-dining restaurant L'Envol led by acclaimed chef Olivier Elzer, an elegant Chinese restaurant named Rùn with some outstanding dim sum items for lunch, exquisite afternoon tea at The Drawing Room, as well as distinctive cocktails at The St. Regis Bar. Breakfast isn't included, but is available at Rùn for an additional price and includes continental and Chinese hot foods, cereals, cold cuts, cheese and pastries made in house. Definitely pick up a pain au chocolat with an apple pastry or two, and thank me later.

 

Rates: From HK$3,500/night for a Deluxe Guest Room to HK$123,500/night for the Presidential Suite (prices may vary depending on availability and season).

Special Mention: It's also worth knowing that The St. Regis launched a Suite Package to give guests special experiences when staying in The St. Regis or Metropolitan Suites. Complimentary experiences include afternoon tea for two, two signature cocktails, and personal sabrage lesson with bottle of champagne. The offer runs until 31 December 2019.

 


 

Rating: 9.5/10

Perfect for:  a luxurious staycation in refined elegance and zero pomposity.

The post Hotel Review: The St. Regis Hong Kong Promises a Refined and Relaxing Stay appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

7 Things You Should Know About The St. Regis Hong Kong

The St. Regis Hong Kong has officially opened its doors on Harbour Drive in Wan Chai and is now accepting reservations -- but before you book that lavish staycation, here's what you need to know about this new luxury hotel.

 

[caption id="attachment_138882" align="alignnone" width="767"]The St. Regis Hong Kong A full view of The St. Regis Hong Kong's exterior.[/caption]

 

1. The Heritage

The St. Regis brand was founded by John Jacob Astor IV in 1904, when he opened the very first St. Regis in New York City's most exclusive residential area. Thought to be the richest man in America at the time, he was still onboard the Titanic when it sank in 1912, but only after helping his pregnant wife into the last lifeboat. What he left behind was a legacy that lives on today at over 40 properties around the world, and is where traditions of the Gilded Age meet modern luxury and style.

[caption id="attachment_138883" align="alignnone" width="1024"] The living room of the Presidential Suite in The St. Regis Hong Kong has impressive views of the harbour.[/caption]

 

2. Interior Design

Acclaimed Hong Kong architect and designer André Fu has created the interiors of the 27-storey hotel using his vision to combine a classic style with contemporary elegance. The result is an understated luxury that feel timeless, with pops of colour and signature design elements to reflect the diversity of the city.

 

3. The Rooms

The St. Regis Hong Kong offers a total of 129 rooms -- 112 guest rooms and 17 signature suites to be exact -- that range from 538 to 2,583 square feet. Guests can opt for a Deluxe guest room or even the Presidential Suite, all of which feature wood flooring, sumptuous textures, and marble bathrooms in a bright and relaxing space. What’s more, in-room check-in is available for all rooms and suites.

[caption id="attachment_138884" align="alignnone" width="1024"] The Grand Deluxe room at The St. Regis Hong Kong.[/caption]

 

4. The Butler Service

All rooms come with complimentary butler service. We’re talking about personalised service that is available 24 hours a day. It’s a St. Regis trademark after all, and now it can be experienced for the first time in Hong Kong, so you'll be able to sit back while your butler helps you unpack, presses your suit, brings you tea and cupcakes and packs it all up again at the end of your stay. The Hong Kong flagship will also introduce eButler chat -- where guests can contact their Butler through an app or through a dedicated line, email, WhatsApp and WeChat.

 

5. The Dining Experiences

Guests can experience three different styles of gastronomy at The St. Regis Hong Kong. This includes French fine-dining at L’Envol, where esteemed French chef Olivier Elzer will offer curated lunch and dinner menus, and Cantonese cuisine at Chinese restaurant Rùn, which is spearheaded by award winning chef Hung Chi-Kwong. Not forgetting afternoon tea, The Drawing Room will offer an indulgent experience (along with a menu of international fare) in this stunning space as well as on the adjoining Astor Terrace.

[caption id="attachment_138881" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Behind The St. Regis Bar is a bright mural that reflects a part of the city.[/caption]

 

6. The St. Regis Bar and the Canto Mary

Set to be Hong Kong’s new hotel bar of choice, The St. Regis Bar offers a craft cocktail menu in addition to over 800 wine labels and more than 100 champagnes. And if that wasn’t enough reason to go, there's the hotel’s signature cocktail since 1934: The Bloody Mary. Here, it's been given a Cantonese twist with dried tangerine peel, five spices and Kowloon soy sauce, and you can enjoy it with live jazz in the bar every evening.

 

7. A Sparkling Sabrage

There’s nothing like celebrating with champagne, and The St. Regis Hong Kong is right there with you with one of their signature traditions: the nightly sabrage, a sword ceremony to open bottles of champagne that dates back to the battles of Napoleon. So who are we to argue -- cheers!

The post 7 Things You Should Know About The St. Regis Hong Kong appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Hotel Review: The Fleming

The Fleming

Renovated and reopened in October 2017, The Fleming is a charming boutique hotel that draws inspiration from Hong Kong’s maritime history. The hotel offers stylish interiors, personalised service and great location -- nestled amid Wan Chai’s infamous nightlife district, local markets and trendy eateries.

[gallery ids="130728,130729,130730,130731,130732,130733,130734,130735,130736,130737"]

Location: 8/10

A short five-minute walk from Wan Chai MTR station, the hotel is ideally placed in a quiet spot -- just around the corner from one of Hong Kong's increasingly cool neighbourhoods. You’ll find eclectic cafés, bars and new trendy restaurants, while a more local side resides with food markets and small storefronts, offering the best of both worlds and plenty to explore. Wan Chai’s legendary nightlife is also close by should you want to venture out, but it's also far enough to steer clear of.

 

Design: 9/10

Inspired by Hong Kong’s heritage of cross-harbour ferries, the interiors of the hotel are classic and timeless with a charmingly nautical-themed design. Corners are rounded and its deep marine palette of steel blue and bottle green is balanced with warm woodwork, interspersed with bold reds and brass finishings that run throughout. Other finer details include a dial on the door, designed to resemble a ship’s engine telegraph, that turns to “do not disturb” or “clean my room”.

 

Ambience: 8/10

Hotel guests are a mix of business professionals and paired travellers. No young children were spotted during our visit. The vibe is quiet and relaxed, but discreetly welcoming as you check in and out. The signature scent of sandalwood and amber wafts through the corridors and has been made to evoke nostalgia of old Hong Kong.

 

Room: 8/10

Each of the 66 guest rooms, which range from small to extra large, feature a twin, queen or king bed option. Although not particularly spacious, they have been thoughtfully designed to maximise what they have. It feels comfortable yet chic, and the bespoke Shen Nong bathroom amenities luxury bedding, bed-side USB docks and Apple TV almost make us forget that the bathroom seems to be missing a bath tub.

Service & Facilities: 7/10

The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the area, so it’s a comfort to know that the ‘guest relation officers’ are available 24 hours at the front desk. The service feels very personal, too, but could be little swifter. A highlight is the Handy smartphone that is left in the room for guests to borrow during their stay. There is no spa, gym or swimming pool, but this is mostly forgiven with the complimentary access to Goji Studios' fitness centre just a 5-minute walk away.

 

Food & Drink: 8/10

There’s one restaurant in the hotel, Osteria Marzia, which serves coastal Italian cuisine and centres its menu on seasonal seaside produce. Fresh salads, seafood and some exceptional pasta and grilled dishes, such as the Boston lobster chitarra and branzino acqua pazza are definitely worth the visit. The lofty dining room is actually where the hotel offers breakfast and, though short, the à la carte menu includes a fair amount of breakfast favourites.

 

Rates: From HK$1,588 to HK$1,888 for a small room (during low to high season), including breakfast.

 

*01.04.2019 Please note that this hotel review has been updated to reflect the new Prestige Online hotel rating scores out of ten.

 


 

Rating: 8/10

 

Perfect for: a couple’s sweet staycation and those who enjoy city life and local food.

The post Hotel Review: The Fleming appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

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