Seven years, that’s how long it has been since I’ve set foot in Hong Kong again. Judging from the territory’s vibe, the same things lure in the tourists—good food, shopping, parties and the attractions for people of all ages. It’s the same components, but changing with the times.
Change is good, but there are things best left as they were. Comfort is one.
If you had the chance to stay at the Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel at the center of Tsim Sha Tsui, perhaps you would refer to it as your own “must stay hotel.” I won’t be surprised if it lands on your list of “best hotels in Hong Kong.” I can relate.
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| A staycationer's dream nest- a well-appointed room with an impressive view of the Vitoria Harbour |
Good memories don’t fade away. Back in 2009 we made the hotel our address and last year, when I pinpointed Hong Kong as the destination for my annual birthday escape, I stayed in the same hotel. It was a very wise decision on my part.
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| There are Instagram-worthy secret spots at the hotel. Find yours. |
Why Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel? It’s situated at the most convenient address, along Canton Road at the heart of the city’s busiest commercial, shopping and business hub.
Just about everything you wish to do in Hong Kong are a few steps away from your doorstep: the must-ride Star Ferry; exclusive shopping across 125 outlets at Harbour City – Hong Kong’s largest shopping complex, just flash your room keycard, and major tourist attractions like Kowloon Park, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Space Museum and Hong Kong Cultural Centre.
But why would I want to leave the comforts of my room?
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| Handwritten notes are always the best. Well, the wine, cheese fruits... |
You see, before this trip was made, I traveled to Taipei, Japan and Bangkok. I was really exhausted (but extremely happy) after touring the sights of the cities. The Hong Kong leg was intended for resting.
I was looking forward to a birthday staycation and cocooning myself in the comforts of my room overlooking the famed Victoria Harbour.
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| No better place to catch the sunset across the iconic Victoria Harbour than the comforts of a Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel room. |
That I did. I tinkered with the computer while connected on the complimentary Wi-Fi internet service or caught the latest film on TV and witnessed the splendor of the setting sun while sipping wine and nibbling on cheese, treats that surprised me when I entered my room (the handwritten note is winner!). There were more that came on the succeeding days. I was spoiled.
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| The birthday surprises came on a daily basis during my 3-night stay |
The indulgence continued at The Continental Club. I was given access to the club offering exclusive comfort and personalized service, which have become hallmarks of the Marco Polo hospitality. This was where I had my daily breakfast (which always started and ended with delicious freshly baked egg tarts), afternoon coffee, and red wine and canapés in the evening.
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| Manning The Continental Club |
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| Exclusive comfort and personalised service at The Continental Club |
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| A closer look of a favorite starter & ender to every breakfast meal |
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| Cocktails in a cozy nook |
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| Comfortable, private & personalized, the perks of The Continental Club. These men make sure the promise is delivered. |
If you like Italian, then go to Cucina. The chef’s signature dishes will make your day (like it did on my birthday lunch). It will leave a mark that will make you come back for a second bout or try the other offerings.
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| Must try Cucina signature dish- the slow-cooked Wagyu beef cheek |
However, the lure of Hong Kong’s energy got me to step out of the hotel, I must admit. There were just too many Instagram-worthy shots to take, and posting them was never a problem with the hotel’s complimentary handy smartphone with unlimited 3G mobile internet access. Add to it free local and international calls to China, Philippines, Japan, United States, and UK; dining and city guide and exclusive ticketing offers, how can you not enjoy HK with this free service?
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| If you need to step out, stay connected. A smartphone you can take around HK. Free 3G connectivity, international calls to 5 countries are complimentary |
Thank you, Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel. It was a great birthday escape for me.
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| Thank you ladies! At The Continental Club with the communications team of Marco Polo Hongkong hotels Samantha Poon & Angel Wong |
The Chinese New Year is a few days ahead and the hotel is dishing out special treats. Why not meet the Year of the Rooster at Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel. It’s going to be a Kung Hei Fat Choy time in Hong Kong for you.
Email me at jinggoysalvador@yahoo.com. For more lifestyle & travel stories, visit www.ofapplesandlemons.com & www.jeepneyjinggoy.com.
Also publsihed in the SunStar Davao newspaper.
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