Rediscovering the Opulence of Hong Kong

On a recent trip to Hong Kong, I rediscovered the reason we all fell in love with Hong Kong in the first place; it’s still here at the InterContinental Hong Kong. This is a property known for its white gloved doormen, butlers, shoe shines, impeccably polished service and views of the ever the growing skyscrapers across the harbour.  The buzz of the lobby lounge lets you know that this is still the place to be seen.

But the InterContinental Hong Kong is more than just a Hotel. It is a Michelin starred restaurant haven. They don’t just have a flag ship restaurant or a celebrity chef to bring in the crowds, they have Nobu, the 1-Michelin star SPOON by Alan Ducasse, 1- Michelin star STEAKHOUSE Winebar & Grill, and the 2- Michelin stars Chinese Yan Toh Heen as per the 2015 Michelin Star Guide. There is also an opulent buffet, a lobby lounge menu and the best club level I have ever seen.

It’s a foodies dream come true, especially as all restaurants are very different in style; you’ll never get bored. And there are private dinning rooms available in all of the outlets, which is great for business entertaining. I know Executives who come in from the US, stay 4 nights and spend their days meeting with staff and evenings entertaining clients at the hotel and never leave the property. Why would you?

The club level offers breakfast and tea, then cocktails and canapés in the evening. Breakfast is elaborate with a delicately displayed buffet including a full Japanese selection with cod roe and even salmon caviar. Freshly baked bread and exotic fruits make this all the more exciting. A la carte is also available for omelets and egg whites only. But it’s in the evening when things really get exciting as the free flow of Perrier Jouet starts to pop. I have never seen quite this level of Champagne used in a club lounge. It’s worth the extra charge, 10 fold. Service is personal and polished.

The hotel is modern and boasts one of the largest outdoor pools in Hong Kong, along with an infinity Jacuzzi overlooking the harbour and a top-notch gym and Spa. And oh did I mention the views?

The rooms and suites are slick with a Chinese fusion. If Shanghai Tang had a hotel, this is what it would look like; they even have a hotel lobby store of Shanghai Tang. Deluxe Jr suites have double windows overlooking the stunning sights of Hong Kong and ferragamo amenities. I managed to see the Presidential Suite, which is over 7,000 Sq Feet and boasts 5 bedrooms, a gym, a sauna, a steam room, kitchen and wrap around balconies with plunge pool.

It actually could be accessible to more people’s budget than you think. Think of it this way; the price difference of a First Class ticket between the US and Hong Kong and Business Class ticket would be about $5,000. Well if there are 2 of you then you could save $10,000 by flying Business instead of First. So here is my brilliant way to justify spending copious amounts of money. Go Business Class and stay in the Presidential suite for just one night. You will never have an experience quite like it. Think how perfect this would be for an anniversary or other great party.

Daniel - Living GreenDaniel Green, the Model Cook is a Celebrity Chef known for his healthy approach to food and living  well. With TV, books, magazines and live appearances, Daniel spends his time helping fans to cook better, feel better and live better. He’s also an avid traveler and a self-confessed Foodie.

To contact Daniel or learn more visit www.themodelcook.com or follow on Twitter @DanielGreen70

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