TRAVEL Escapes

Asia’s most glamorous city has always been home to some of the world’s most glamorous hotels. Upon arrival at the Mandarin Oriental’s flagship hotel in Hong Kong there’s an impressive but warm feeling from the black marble floors and large orchid filled vases and the striking crystal chandeliers still hung from the ceiling. This is a very popular hotel that is always buzzing. The legendary hotel is a home away from home for both seasoned travellers and locals alike. Local business people are often seen here conducting meetings and it’s equally popular with visitors keen for a taste of what this vibrant city has to offer. At the heart of the hotel’s winning philosophy stands a singular focus on service, discretion and comfort and these are the reasons this particular hotel has become a real favourite.

The hotel has an impressive history and it was the first one ever to be built on Hong Kong Island. The quality of service you’ll find at this hotel is beyond impressive and it really puts a lot of other hotels to shame. The focus is on creating a warm environment for guests who walk through the doors, leaving them happy and satisfied when they walk out. We are shown to our Harbour Room on the 20th floor where you immediately take in the sweeping view of the harbour that is looking out to Kowloon. The hotel has just over 500 rooms and suites, and the Harbour Room is definitely one of the best options. The décor is sleek but cosy with a gold and cream colour scheme, crisp white linen bed sheets, heavy drapes, wood panelling and gold touches. The bathroom is spacious and impressive with black and white marble, open-plan configuration with a walk-in rain shower and separate bathtub. Products are Hermés and there’s even a television fitted in an oscillating mirror by the sink. Every detail has been well thought out. We also loved the day bed by the large windowperfect for sipping a cup of tea or an afternoon aperitif while taking in the view of the junks and ferries and the Hong Kong Observation Wheel.

As you would expect, the hotel boasts incredible restaurants for you to choose from. There’s Pierre Gagnaire’s two Michelinstarred French restaurant Pierre; the one-star modern European Mandarin Grill + Bar which is achingly chic, and the one-star Cantonese restaurant Man Wah, where we enjoyed an amazing dinner overlooking the city. There’s also The Krug Room, the only one in the world where progressive gastronomy dishes are paired