Beatrice Spence checks into the Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong
About the hotel
The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong was located in Central, Hong Kong until 2009. In 2011, the hotel relocated to the International Commerce Centre in Kowloon. The Deluxe Victoria Harbour Suite has a separate work area from the angled corner lounge, which has floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Enjoy the spectacular Victoria Harbour view from the built-in window seat, or take a closer look with the supplied telescope. Asprey of London toiletries stock the bathroom. The suite is well-equipped with all the conveniences you expect and whilst compact in size, it is well designed to maximise a sense of separate work and living spaces.
Unique features
Staying at the Ritz is really like living on cloud nine for a few days. The hotel occupies floors 102-118 of the International Commerce Centre and has the highest bar, Ozone, and swimming pool in the world at 484 metres high. The tallest building in Hong Kong, the hotel arguably boasts the best views to be had of Victoria Harbour but when the sky is not clear it really is like living in the clouds, a strangely exhilarating experience. When walking around the hotel there are dramatic pieces of art to be viewed – the hotel has over 1,100 contemporary artworks installed, mainly by contemporary Chinese artists.
Dining
Hong Kong is a culinary destination for foodies, and the Ritz-Carlton is certainly high on the lists of must-visit restaurants, as two of its three restaurants, Tin Lung Heen and Tosca, are Michelin-star restaurants. Tosca is headed by star chef Pino Lavara, who came from Italy to join Ritz-Carlton to run Tosca. Under Pino, the restaurant achieved its first Michelin star after six months. Dining at Tosca is an experience for all senses, with dishes such as truffles and biscotti served on a cloud made of white fairy floss.
Spa
The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong Spa uses East meet West therapies incorporating indigenous healing Lava Shell and Chinese massage techniques. Bookings recommended.
Highlights
Club lounge guests have access to a 24-hour lounge and bar. The club is staffed until 11pm at night, though the jet-lagged guest can visit at 3am and help his or herself to snacks and drinks with automatic wine and whisky dispensing machines. Club lounge guests are also entitled to a free pressing service.
Could do better
As part of the club package, you are able to book a chauffeur to drive you to any part of Kowloon as a complimentary service. However, this is so popular it can be booked out, so a few more drivers may be needed.
If you’d like an upgrade
The Ritz-Carlton Suite Victoria with 415 square metres of splendour includes a personal butler.
Insider tip
Rediscover your inner child at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong. From the reception floor of the hotel it is possible to head into a shopping mall, which has all the usual luxury brands housed, alongside a Zara and Nespresso, but also includes an ice skating rink for those looking to cut loose.
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