Celebrity Life

Located inside the International Commerce Centre in Kowloon, The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong boosts the best panoramic views in the city and offers a luxury experience like no other.

Upon arrival on the 103rd floor, where the hotel's majestic reception is located, guests embark on a memorable journey of unique experiences and five-star service. During the festive season, The Ritz becomes even more magical thanks to Instagram-worthy decorations, seasonal offerings and just the right amount of opulence among the clouds.

A Memorable Stay at The Ritz-Carlton

Location 10/10

Let's be honest, it doesn't get any better than this. The hotel's panoramic view is pretty much unbeatable and can be enjoyed from nearly every area of the property, from the private rooms, to the lounges, restaurants and fitness centre. Additionally, The Ritz-Carlton offers easy access to Elements and Tsim Sha Tsui's amenities.

Design 9/10

Originally located in Central from 1993 to 2008, when it reopened inside the ICC in 2011, the hotel was revamped and given a completely new look. Mixing contemporary elements with Asian touches and classic pieces, the large property is a temple of elevated luxury. The stately chandeliers, designed by famed architectural lighting designer Sally Storey, stand out in every communal area.

Room: 10/10

The Ritz-Carlton's 312 accommodations highlight its enviable vistas through large panoramic windows. The Deluxe Victoria Harbour Suite, where we had the pleasure to stay, is a 75 SQM oasis of comfort and outstanding design. We absolutely loved the window corner's area (which includes a telescope), the living room space and the elegant full marble bathroom. Other highlights include an ultra-lux mini refreshment bar, the Apple TV and the - truly - high-speed Internet access.

Service & Facilities: 10/10

Staying true to its global reputation, The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong's service is personable and world-class at the same time. We loved the attention to details and the staff's bespoke approach.

When it comes to facilities, the hotel has something to offer for every type of guest. Located on 116th floor, the spa features 11 treatment rooms, including two couple’s suites, providing a serene escape to relax and enjoy personalised pampering experiences. We loved the lava shell body massage treatment, which uses Tiger Clam shells to boost circulation and sooth aches.

Two floors above, the large fitness studio provides a wide range of Technogym equipment in a tranquil and spacious environment that overlooks the breath-taking infinity pool.

Food & Drink: 10/10

Hong Kong foodies will not be disappointed with the dining options that the hotel has to offer. Now-famous for being a temple of haute cuisine, The Ritz-Carlton houses two-Michelin-star Chinese restaurant Tin Lung Heen and one-Michelin-star Italian sensation Tosca di Angelo. Additionally, we loved our meal at the Lounge & Bar, an all-dining venue that offers front-row seats to the skyline and sophisticated dishes. The menu includes time-honoured Western classics like steaks, soups, and salads executed to perfection.

For a memorable drinking experience, head to Ozone, one of the world's highest bars.

Christmas Giveaway Day 10: A One-night Exclusive Staycation

At Prestige, we will be giving a one-night complimentary stay in a Deluxe Victoria Harbour Suite with Club Access for a maximum of two adults (validity: one year, blackout dates apply).

How to Enter

To enter, head to our Instagram page @PrestigeHK and follow the instructions.

Terms & Conditions:

By entering this Prestige giveaway, you will be bound by these terms and conditions and acknowledge that you satisfy all eligibility requirements.

This giveaway is open to Hong Kong residents only and entrants must be over the age of eighteen (18).

Entrants must follow our Instagram page and set their profile to public in order for their entry to be valid.

The giveaway prize is live for five (5) days only.

Entries will be accepted within the five (5) days of posting the feature. Thereafter the giveaway for that prize will close and the winner will be announced.

Winners will be contacted and asked to provide their full name and contact details via Instagram within 48 hours.

Winners will be instructed on how to claim their prize by email.

Winners must respond to redeem the prize within seven (7) days of the prize announcement, otherwise the prize will be forfeited.

Prizes cannot be exchanged for cash, credit and are non-transferrable to third parties.

Prestige reserves the right to cancel, re-draw or otherwise modify this giveaway at any time with immediate effect and without giving prior notice.

The post Staycation Review: Elevated Luxury at its Best at Ritz-Carlton (A Christmas Giveaway) appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

A new facial-lifting treatment at the Ritz-Carlton Spa takes inspiration from a traditional Japanese massage technique. We cross the harbour to sample it.

There’s no need to explain why people might want to set aside 90 minutes for a massage right now. I can think of plenty of reasons, from being cooped up in this city for a year and a half, or the change in the seasons and weather, to a general feeling of impending doom (though perhaps that’s just me) and the consistent worry of living through a global pandemic.

Yet even at the best of times, spoiling yourself for an-hour-and-a-half, while letting an expert work her magic by massaging all the tension away, is a delightful indulgence. Maybe it’ll even achieve the impossible by defying age and turning back the clock.

My own reasons for visiting the Ritz-Carlton Spa are simple. Although the still-sweltering heat (complete with blue skies, so much sunshine and more than the occasional thunderstorm) might have us thinking otherwise, autumn is almost upon us. And it’s precisely at this time of year that my skin goes from its normal oily and blemish-prone state to dehydrated, susceptible to dry patches and still, unfortunately, prone to blemishes.

No matter how many times I streamline my skincare regiment and kid myself I’ve honed it to perfection, the weather changes – and with it comes stress on the skin, dullness and the appearance of texture.

So to relax and to revitalise my face and skin, I’m visiting the Ritz-Carlton Spa to check out its latest offering. This powerhouse of pampering is located on the hotel’s 116th floor, which requires a little journey that takes me from the first lobby – on the ninth floor – to the main lobby on the 103rd.

Eventually, after switching to another lift, I emerge in the spa, where I’m greeted with a cup of hot Chinese tea and check myself in, filling out forms to detail points of tension and concern on my body and, inevitably, whether I’m in danger of being Covid-positive. I’m then led through a warren of dark corridors to a changing room, where I put on a soft bathrobe and slippers before going to wait for my specialist.

This lovely lady leads me down yet another dimly lit corridor to one of the spa’s 11 lavish treatment rooms high above the harbour. Here, with the city spread out beneath me, I’m treated to a foot bath as my specialist helps me choose the scents and oils I’d like her to use.

I’m trialling the new Natural Kobido Lift treatment, which employs serums, moisturisers, balms and oils from the holistic beauty brand ESPA, originally from the UK. Its Tri-Active Resilience Pro-Biome range is luxurious and natural, with anti-oxidant properties that promise to strengthen the skin’s resilience to modern lifestyle stressors, such as pollution and harsh weather.

Before we began, my specialist analyses my skin using a blue UV lamp – not the most pleasant experience, as she inspects the acne scarring on my cheek, hyperpigmentation on my neck (admittedly not somewhere I always remember to apply my skincare products) and the deep dark circles under my “tired” eyes.

To begin the facial, which takes its name from traditional Japanese Kobido massage, I undergo a combination of fast and slow hand movements on my face, neck and chest, which are promised to “detoxify, invigorate, sculpt and relax”. As I’m told multiple times to relax throughout the treatment, the jury’s out on whether I’m able truly to unwind.

I’m told the varying massaging speeds improve deep circulation, remove dead cells, and encourage elastin and collagen production (in tandem with the hydrating resilience-building collection from ESPA). My specialist uses just enough pressure on my face and chest, so it isn’t painful in any way.

Towards the end of the treatment, a menthol-infused mask is placed on my face for around 15 minutes, during which time I fidget and attempt to calm my racing mind. I don’t succeed, though the cooling sensation is pleasant and not too strong.

The verdict? Following the procedure I can see little to no signs of bloating or puffiness on my face, and my skin really does feel firmer. Nor do I experience any adverse post-treatment effects, such as breaking out into angry red spots or inflammation. However, my skin being a problematic organ, I do seem to have some irritation on my cheeks and chin – it looks a little worn out where
I have old scarring, while my pores seem a little more “emphasised” than before.

The 90-minute Natural Kobido Lift treatment is available until December 31, at HK$2,100 on weekdays and HK$2,250 on weekends and public holidays, plus 10 percent service.

To book call +852 2263 2040 or email spareception.hk@ritzcarlton.com

The post Review: A New Japanese-inspired Facial-lifting Treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Spa appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

With travel plans halted for the foreseeable, whisk yourself (and your pet) away for a luxurious night at one of these pet-friendly hotel destinations.

Forced to change the way we travel this year, the ongoing pandemic has meant that Hong Kongers are looking to unwind closer to home. With endless luxury lodgings on our doorstep, we're never far from booking a weekend retreat at some of the top hotels in the city. For some pet-owners however, a night away can be at the expense of paying for pet-sitters or asking for a favour from friends; however, there's no need to leave your fury friend behind this time.

Expect five-star offerings and an exceptional experience – pup in tow – with the best pet-friendly staycations on offer.

The best pet-friendly staycations in Hong Kong:

The Murray, Hong Kong

Those with smaller dogs under 10kg can lap up offerings from The Murray's 'Pawsome Staycation' which promises not only an overnight stay in one of its exclusive rooms, but a complimentary afternoon tea experience for two alongside alfresco daily breakfast, complimentary overnight parking and HKD$900 dining credit to spend as you wish.

The Murray, 22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong, +852 3141 8888

Rosewood Hong Kong

Donating $500 to SPCA Hong Kong for every 'Four Legged Friends' booking, Rosewood Hong Kong hotel invites all pets and pet owners for a lavish and memorable stay. Upon arriving, those with paws will be treated to a selection of special amenities that promise to pamper. A sumptuous pet bed, toy and specially curated gourmet pet menu will be available upon arrival, with the addition of a guide to local dog-friendly restaurants, bars and parks recommended by the concierge team. Guests and pets will also be treated to a 45-minute yoga class, in-room afternoon tea and photo session.

Rosewood Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 3891 8888

Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

Welcoming pets up to 4.5kg, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong is curating its signature staycations to cater to dogs across Hong Kong. All pooches are provided with a gourmet food menu, soft sleeping mat and toy, as well as dog walking services. Alongside this, owners can enjoy HK$1,000 dining or spa credit when booking a room or HK$1,288 when booking a club room or suite per stay, as well as daily breakfast for two.

Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2522 0111

The Ritz Carlton, Hong Kong

The 'Pawfect Stay' package by The Ritz Carlton is the perfect excuse to book in for a relaxing long weekend with your pets. Allowing up to two pets per room, each booking includes complimentary pet-friendly comforts such as cosy beds, water and food bowls, plush toys, welcome treats and pet wipes. Relax in-room and take in panoramic views while enjoying 20 percent savings on room services (excludes the pet-friendly menu) or head over to nearby West Kowloon Nursery Park for a scenic afternoon walk. Pets will also be treated to a gift from Whiskers N Paws as well as an engraved pet tag.

If you'd like to indulge in the spa or dine in restaurants which require your pet to remain in your room, The Ritz Carlton also offer pet sitting services for your ease of mind.

The Ritz Carlton, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 2263 2263

Ovolo Hotels, Hong Kong

When it comes to pet-friendly staycations, Ovolo spares no expense to ensure that both owner and pet are treated like VIPs. The V.I.Pooch package offers an indulgent experience and stress-free getaway, equipping you with home comforts and plenty of perks. Guests can expect a plush pet bed, water and food bowl, a bag filled with specially designed dog toys and treats, as well as staff on hand to provide assistance when you need it. All Ovolo locations are pet-friendly, but is only able to accommodate up to two dogs per room, with a HKD$500 charge per additional pet per night.

Ovolo Southside, 64 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Southside, Hong Kong, +852 3460 1800; Ovolo Central, 2 Arbuthnot Road, Central, Hong Kong, +852 3755 3000

the Arca

For 'Pawfectcation' head to the newly established the Arca hotel in Hong Kong's Southside! A pet-friendly staycation spot that welcomes furry friends up to 25kg, enjoy complimentary in-room dining breakfast, afternoon tea, 10 percent off food and beverage during your stay, as well as complimentary use of "the Pawfect Wardrobe."

the Arca, 43 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, +852 37016000

W Hong Kong

All pets (up to 20kg!) are welcome (P.A.W) for a luxurious stay at W Hong Kong where expansive views and top-notch amenities await both humans and four-legged friends. Close to West Kowloon Promenade that's brimming with pet-friendly eateries, the P.A.W staycation provides a pet bed, water and food bowl, special menu as well as access to the hotel's WOOFBAR – the perfect place to chill out with pup over a few pet cocktails, treats and Whiskers N Paws shopping opportunities. Looking to get away for just one night? W Hong Kong's "Pawe-some Fun" Pet Package includes a one-night stay, takeaway breakfast from KITCHEN, WhiskersNPaws amenity box with pet’s treats and toys, an instant photo from WOOFBAR and more.

W Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road West Kowloon Station, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 3717 2222

Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour Hotel

Available to book from now until 31 December 2021, Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour Hotel's pet offerings are perfect for riding out those harsh summer months. Inclusive of one night accommodation and thoughtful amenities for your pooch – bed, treats, one “Fresh Meal Pack for Dog” and more – guests can also enjoy a 15-minute professional photo taking experience at the Upper Farm Doggy Playground. If you are planning on a stay before the end of August 2021, you'll also be given complimentary access to the Dog Art Gallery: Experiential Zone (total value: HK$500) located at Harbour North Phase two.

Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour Hotel, 1 North Point Estate Lane, North Point, Hong Kong, +852 3762 1234

The Langham Hotel, Hong Kong

A truly pampered pet-friendly staycation awaits at The Langham Hotel, Hong Kong. Tailored for pets under 15kg, pet amenities are available upon arrival, and guests will be treated to a professional pet photography styling shoot to "capture the true essence of guests and their four-legged friends," and to bring home as a souvenir. Don't fancy braving the heat? The package includes in-room afternoon tea for both you and your pup per room, per night.

The Langham Hotel, Hong Kong,  8 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 2375 1133

Note: This post was originally published on 12 January 2021 and recently updated on 11 August 2021.

The post Luxury Pet-friendly Staycations to Book This Month in Hong Kong 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.