Celebrity Life

Coco Chanel's star sign marks the reopening of the flagship boutique at one of this city's most exclusive addresses – the Peninsula Hotel.

In September this year, following extensive renovations, Chanel reopened its flagship boutique at The Peninsula Hong Kong. The French luxury brand and The Peninsula hotel have a long history of partnership. Chanel first opened at the hotel some 42 years ago, a testament also to the brand’s long-standing presence in the city. Its boutique at the legendary address also demonstrates its commitment to constant innovation, so as to provide the ultimate luxury retail experience.

As with all Chanel boutiques, the maison commissioned New York-based architect Peter Marino to redesign and upgrade the store. Marino did not disappoint, once again capturing Chanel’s allure and timeless contemporaneity by harnessing the luxury brand’s codes of unbridled creativity, savoir-faire and the celebration of exceptional materials.

Spanning three floors, the revamped 7,900-square-foot store is dedicated to all things Chanel, from ready-to-wear to handbags, shoes, costume jewellery and eyewear, along with a selection of fragrances and watches, as well as high and fine jewellery.

The revamped store embodies the archetypal Chanel aesthetic. White and black marble lines the hotel’s ground-floor corridor, where the accessories section is located. Here are showcased seasonal bags and small leather goods, along with a full display of shoes, including the emblematic two-tone slingbacks and ballerinas.

A white-marble carpeted staircase, visible from the facade window, connects the ground floor to the mezzanine and the basement. On the latter, more accessories and bags are on display – including special collector’s bags – while the mezzanine floor houses three ready-to-wear salons. Here, styled looks are matched with seasonal bags and shoes against a backdrop of hand-made wall finishes, bespoke silk, and wool carpets in beige and black that evoke Chanel’s famous tweed. The three ready-to-wear salons are furnished with Coromandel-style glass mirror walls, custom warm-toned tweed sofas and unique coffee tables in black and gold, by Belgian artist Fernand Dresse; two bronze sculptural table lamps in a patina gold finish by French artist Laurence Montano intensify this inviting ambience. The dressing rooms are decorated with gold-tone artworks by Italian artist Gianfranco Zappettini and Belgian artist Johan Creten.

From the ready-to-wear section a sweeping staircase, with an eye-catching balustrade of 22 sets of rock crystals and brass soaked in gold. and designed by the goldsmith Goossens Paris, leads up to the Watches and Fine Jewellery boutique. Here, a Fine Jewellery VIP Salon features antique furniture and modern artworks, all specially chosen for this location. This intimate space enables guests to enjoy utmost privacy while perusing fine- and high-jewellery pieces that include Les Signatures creations, a unique capsule collection designed and created specifically for the opening of The Peninsula Hong Kong flagship boutique.

The collection, which comprises five pieces, is inspired by the mighty lion, the astrological sign of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, whose birthday falls on August 19. Throughout her life, Gabrielle Chanel – a devotee of astrology – believed in horoscopes and predictions. As such, lions and celestial motifs featured prominently in her work. Buttons, embroidery, buckles and, of course, jewellery featuring the lion’s noble face and other cosmic motifs can be found in many of her creations, as well as in the brand’s modern collections to honour her.

One of the most significant pieces in this tribute collection is the Constellation of Leo emerald signet-style ring. Inspired by the bold rings worn by Gabrielle Chanel, it features a magnificent octagonal emerald that echoes Place Vendôme in Paris. Once home to Gabrielle Chanel and now to one of the brand’s boutiques, this famous square has always been a source of inspiration for the French luxury house.

The vibrant emerald is surrounded by diamonds, while baguette-cut emeralds line the side to evoke The Peninsula’s opulent facade. What makes this ring extraordinary is a secret detail – a frontal face of a lion – which is only visible through the emerald.

Another majestic piece is the Constellation of Leo malachite necklace with a central medallion featuring a lion’s face crafted from a profusion of diamonds with a pear-shaped diamond on its forehead. Surrounded by intense green malachites, the swirling patterns and distinctive colour of this gemstone contrast beautifully against the silhouette of the star-studded diamond encrusted chain. A round diamond embedded in a gold star anchors this piece, providing an exquisite finishing touch.

Besides the signet ring, another ring in the capsule collection features a central pear-cut diamond that sits atop a diamond-encrusted lion’s head that’s supported by dazzling malachites and tsavorites at the side. By adapting materials and techniques, Chanel shows a new facet to Gabrielle Chanel’s favourite beast.

An interesting piece in this collection is a pair of mismatched earrings. This unique asymmetric pair almost mirror each other yet differ just slightly through the shape of a hanging diamond. One features a 1-carat pear-shaped drop diamond, while the other has a smaller round shape diamond set within a gold star. Both hang below a cascade of seductive malachites and tsavorites to make this an obvious statement piece for the ears.

The post Chanel Celebrates Peninsula Boutique Reopening with Exclusive Jewellery appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and we can't think of a better way to start your morning than with a luxurious spread at one of Hong Kong’s finest hotels. From all-you-can-eat upscale buffets to thoughtfully crafted sets and indulgent menus, these are the the best luxury hotel breakfasts in Hong Kong.

SOMM, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental

If you're looking for a bubbly and decadent breakfast, SOMM’s formula comprises hot, savoury, and sweet delicacies served with Olivier Blanc de Noirs champagne. Its cage-free egg dishes include a tempting poached egg English muffin with black truffle butter, hollandaise sauce and crispy bellota ham. To truly start your day with an indulgent treat, you can also choose from dishes like banana pancakes covered in toasted pecan nuts, dark Okinawa sugar syrup and yuzu.

SOMM, 7/F, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, The Landmark, 15 Queen's Road Central; +852 2132 0055

Salisterra, Upper House

Newly opened Salisterra at Upper House boasts six delicate morning spreads featuring traditional East Asian fare, a classic English breakfast, a vegetarian herbivore special and even a Charcuterie set. You can opt for the House Viennoiserie for freshly baked pastries and French press coffee or for the Japanese set to try grilled salted salmon with tamagoyaki, steamed rice, miso soup, and Genmaicha green tea.

Salisterra, Level 49, The Upper House, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty; +852 3968 1106

Grand Café, Grand Hyatt

The Grand Café at the Grand Hyatt has it all: an à-la-carte morning menu, continental and healthy breakfast sets, and an all-you-can-eat buffet guaranteed to have something for everyone. The thoughtful menu makes a note of everything (including alcohol and pork, as well as highlighting vegetarian options), allowing for a no-brainer morning meal. Make sure to browse the Healthy Choice teas to boost your energy, including a specially designed jet-lag relief concoction.

Grand Café, Lobby, Grand Hyatt, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai; +852 2584 7722

The Lobby, The Peninsula

Eating at The Lobby at The Peninsula is a timeless Hong Kong tradition. Start your day early with authentic Continental and Chinese breakfast staples. Delightful dishes include a brioche French toast with apple compote, mixed berries, and maple syrup and an avocado rye toast topped with a poached egg and tomato salsa. Don't forget to try a home-baked pastry (there's even a gluten-free option!) from The Peninsula’s iconic bakery.

The Lobby, G/F, The Peninsula, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui; +852 2696 6772

Lucciola, The Hari

Trendy Italian eatery Lucciola at The Hari features a daily breakfast a-la-carte menu and a weekend semi-buffet option. Head to Wan Chai for modern décor, hot treats and eggs in any style. The upscale continental breakfast includes a bread basket, sliced fruit, orange juice and coffee. Need something sweeter? The orange brioche French toast with caramelised orange and mascarpone cream is a delectable dream.

Lucciola, 1/F, The Hari, 330 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai; +852 2129 0333

Clipper Lounge, Mandarin Oriental

The Clipper Lounge at Mandarin Oriental offers the perfect everything-under-the-sun breakfast buffet with dim sum and steamed buns, omelettes, noodles, congee, waffles, pancakes, and more. Perfect for a big group, head there early and take your time to check out each food station (the Chinese noodle selection is extensive!) to make sure you don't miss anything from the sumptuous banquet.

Clipper Lounge, Main Floor, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road, Central; +852 2825 4007

The Lounge, Four Seasons

Enjoy dishes from the à-la-carte menu or opt for a hearty breakfast spread next to the Four Season's glass atrium lobby. The classic Hong Kong Breakfast comes with wok-fried noodles, rice congee, dim sum and Chinese tea. For an energising morning boost, the Well Feeling Breakfast set features an egg white frittata and a sourdough toast, complete with coconut juice, a fruit salad, organic yoghurt, a vegetable selection (asparagus, zucchini, tomatoes, ricotta and basil), and coffee or tea.

The Lounge, Four Seasons, 8 Finance Street, Central; +852 3196 8882

Holt’s Café, Rosewood

The ever elegant Holt’s Café is ideal for a closer-to-home traditional breakfast. A contemporary and upscale take on the city's cha chaan tengs, head to the Rosewood for local favourites such as spiced pork cubes instant noodles, rice congee, and wonton noodle soup. The Hong Kong-style teahouse also offers Japanese and Continental fare, as well as an extensive egg selection.

Holt’s Café, Rosewood Hong Kong, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852 3891 8732

The Lounge & Bar, The Ritz-Carlton

With floor-to-ceiling windows, the view from The Ritz-Carlton’s The Lounge & Bar is truly unbeatable. Enjoy classic Western, Cantonese and Japanese fare while looking over the Victoria Harbour and skyline. The Healthy Breakfast Package is guaranteed to be a hearty, nourishing start to your day, with six food offerings including poached organic free range eggs on whole wheat muffin with avocado and green salad, and a fresh fruit quinoa salad with honey, lime and basil mint. Want a lighter start to your day? Browse the wide selection of Chinese and black teas and start your morning with a soothing cup.

The Lounge & Bar, 102/F, The Ritz-Carlton, International Commerce Centre (ICC), 1 Austin Road West; +852 2263 2270

The post The Best Luxury Hotel Breakfasts in Hong Kong appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Simpson Yacht Charter becomes the exclusive charter partner of The Peninsula Hong Kong, the historic colonial-style hotel founded in 1928.

The post Simpson Yacht Charter Partners Peninsula appeared first on LUXUO.

Finally, the much-awaited festive season is upon us. This time of the year - and in 2020 perhaps even more so – most of us look for comfort and cheerfulness. The Peninsula Boutique is here to deliver just that, with, of course, a signature touch of elegance.

The icon of the 2020 festive season is Robin, who travels around the globe to bring back tales of kindness and festive compassion and is at the centre of “Stories from the Tree”, a dreamy fairy tale created exclusively for the Peninsula Hotels. Along with the whimsical Robin motif, which adorns gift boxes and keepsakes, other classic characters, including the Nutcracker and the Gingerbread Man, are featured in the decorations and trees.

The limited-edition “Stories from the Tree” collection includes seven different hampers options, each one carefully created to bring out the merry spirit of this season through the impeccable elegance and attention to details that makes The Peninsula Boutique a go-to destination to celebrate the holiday in style.

Some of the highlights of the collection include the sumptuous selections of chocolates, the Hand-dipped Festive Cookies, Chocolate Panettone and signature Dark Chocolate Carrés with Peninsula Blend tea bags.

Famous for its sophisticated and delicious cakes and pastries, this Christmas, The Peninsula Boutique is also offering the Chestnut Wood, Chestnut Log and Poinsettia. The mouth-watering offering is completed by the lifestyle gits, which include the Festive Bauble with Ribbon, Festive Bear and the Festive Bear Gift Set.

This year, upon spending HK$500 or above at the exclusive The Peninsula Pop-Up Boutique at Hysan Place, you’ll also receive a token for the Christmas Tree Capsule Machine, which features an impressive array of shopping privileges, festive gifts and grand prizes.

True to the spirit of the season and the stories that inspired this year’s collection, a portion of funds from the limited-edition fine bone china Festive Bauble will be donated to ImpactHK, a local charity that addresses housing and homelessness issues in Hong Kong.

To find out more, shop and book, head to The Peninsula Boutique official website

The Peninsula Boutique, The Peninsula Arcade, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon 

The post The Peninsula Boutique’s Festive Treats Are All You Need to Get Into the Christmas Spirit appeared first on Prestige Online - 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.

[gallery size="full" ids="206654,206655,206656,206659,206657,206658,206660,206661,206662,206663"]

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.

Lunar New Year is a time of joy and celebration, hope and aspirations, gathering of friends and family, festive presents to gift and of course indulgent meals to ring in the new year. This year, The Peninsula Boutique has prepared gourmet gift sets inspired by the luxury hotel’s famous interiors to share and to give. The latticework uses intricate geometry to construct the auspicious packaging, and also resembles mazes in honour of the Year of the Rat.

Whether it is to enjoy with the family or corporate gifting for colleagues and clients, The Peninsula Boutique has been catering to Hong Kong’s biggest celebration for decades. The carefully curated gourmet delights with the city’s most sought-after New Year hampers and Spring Calendars to serve all forms of festivities.

Spring Calendar

Much like the beloved Christmas Advents, The Peninsula Boutique Spring Calendar (HK$698) features numbered boxes to be opened each day starting from the first day to the 15^th day of the Lunar New Year. Find traditional Chinese sweet and savoury treats, tea and other seasonal delights.

Lunar New Year Puddings

Arguably one of the most auspicious dishes of the New Year, the fresh glutinous puddings are essential to start the new zodiac cycle. Alongside the original flavour, the traditional legacy gets an aromatic update with The Peninsula’s signature Jasmine Tea Blend. Available individually (HK$198) or in an assorted gift box containing both variations (HK$388).

Baked Goods

Visiting friends and family means you can't go empty handed. Whether it's their bestselling Butter egg rolls (HK$185), Almond puffs (HK$230), Sesame cookies (HK$150), or even their Gourmet sauces flavoured cookies (HK$398) -- think XO chilli sauce and shrimp paste type savoury biscuit; The Peninsula Boutique bakery is always a joy to give and receive.

Lunar New Year Hampers

To bring luck for the New Year, three exquisite hampers named Fortune* (HK$1,688), Abundance (HK$2,188) and Prosperity* (HK$3,288) are perfect gifts of fine delicacies and well wishes. Each hamper is packed with a variety of surprises including festive puddings, traditional treats, teas, pastries, vintage wines and seasonal fruit.

* Includes seasonal fruit and is available exclusively online at www.peninsulaboutique.com.

The post Auspicious Gifting to Welcome The Year of the Rat appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

We hear all about the maison’s incredible history of jewellery design, from the man who knows it best.

The post Take A Seat With Van Cleef & Arpels’ International Director of the Heritage Collection, Nicolas Luchsinger appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.