The Peninsula Hong Kong, known as the “Grande Dame of the Far East”, is much more than just a luxury hotel. This iconic establishment is one of the city’s main landmarks, and even those who aren’t staying hope to visit for a photograph or to sample the famous afternoon tea. The hotel opened in 1928, as the Peninsula brand’s flagship property, and the majestic exterior and main lobby haven’t changed much since.
The hotel is located on the harbour in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, the perfect place to watch the daily light show over the water and a prime position for city sightseeing. I was delighted to be staying in room 2412, a grand deluxe room with a spectacular view of the harbour. This category of room is spacious and indulgent, decorated in shades of cream and grey with plenty of natural light. The bedrooms feel particularly fresh and modern after the 2013 renovation, with hidden technological additions like touch screen tablets, free international calls and home theatres. Elegant and artistic oriental details are a quiet reminder of the hotel’s history and heritage.
The bed was one best of I have experienced, dressed in the finest Egyptian cotton from Italian brand Quagliotti. The subtle grey and white striped covers were stylish but simple, a nice change from the usual hotel bright white. The bathrooms are state of the art, clad in marble with grand his-and-hers sinks, a large bathtub and separate shower. Toiletries are provided by international designer Oscar de la Renta and special red soap boxes are a complimentary good luck gift for each guest.
The hotel’s seven restaurants are regarded as some of the top eateries in the city. Spring Moon is renowned for its authentic Cantonese cuisine, served in a 1920s traditional Shanghainese mansion on the first floor. I recommend visiting at lunch to sample the signature dim sum, when there is a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere.
For a glamorous night out head to Felix on the 28th floor. This avant-garde space was designed by Philippe Starck and serves Modern European cuisine. I loved the characterful touches in this restaurant such as the chair covers, which feature the faces of distinguished members of hotel staff. Felix opened in 1994 and has been used for many exclusive functions, including a Christian Dior catwalk show! The private rooms and dramatic toilets are also well worth seeing.
The French restaurant, Gaddi’s, is perhaps the most luxurious and romantic dining option at the hotel. The glorious dining room is famous for proposals – and even has a dedicated proposal table, which so far has a 100% success rate. Keen foodies will appreciate the intimate chef’s table in the kitchen that provides a bespoke dining experience.
The Peninsula Hong Kong is also very well known for its afternoon tea, which is served in the lobby. At weekends, visitors queue for hours to sample the beautiful tea, so I recommend visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience! I also felt very privileged to meet the hotel’s Maître Chocolatier, Marijn Coertjens in his delicious kitchen filled with immaculate sweet creations.
I enjoyed breakfast in the all-day Verandah restaurant where guests can feast on the elaborate buffet. Here, anything and everything is available, from Chinese delicacies to Italian cured meats and French cheeses. I was happy to enjoy a simpler selection of the flaky pastries, fresh juices and strong coffee.
Every luxury seems possible at The Peninsula Hong Kong. For an extra special occasion the hotel can arrange scenic helicopter flights from their China Clipper heliport on the 30th floor. A 15-minute flight costs $9,995 and offers unparalleled views of the famous cityscape. Alternatively you may wish to book in for a lavish treatment at the renowned spa, after which you can go for a refreshing swim in the impressively opulent indoor pool.
The Peninsula Hong Kong staff will ensure your stay in Hong Kong is unforgettable from the moment you step off the plane. The custom-made Rolls Royce Phantom’s in Peninsula green will transport you from door to door, complete with complimentary wifi and refreshments. The car journey to the airport was the perfect opportunity to upload all my favourite Peninsula moments onto social media, a photo album which would made even the most seasoned traveller jealous.
More information and book a stay at The Peninsula Hong Kong here.