Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong is the epitome of contemporary luxury combined with Oriental heritage, a well-loved address in one of Asia’s most exciting cities
When The Mandarin (that was to become Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong) was first conceived in the early 1960s, Hugh Barton, chairman of the Hong Kong Land Investment and Agency Co., Ltd., said: “The island needed one great hotel with the individuality that only the leaders of Hong could give it…”
Today, more than 50 years on, the hotel not only has lived up to the vision of its founders but also is considered the epitome of contemporary luxury combined with Oriental heritage, a prestigious and well-loved address for those seeking exclusive sanctuary in one of Asia’s most exciting cities. The grand dame of Asian hotels, if ever there is one, with its 430 spacious rooms and 71 elegant suites, continue to delight guests with award-winning service and impressive facilities, setting the bar for newer hotels to emulate, and spawning clones that try hard to duplicate its distinct brand of fine hospitality service.
Built on the waterfront, replacing the colonial Queen’s Building, the hotel was destined to be a legend from the very start. The building constructed by John Howarth of Leigh and Orange, with interior design by Don Ashton, famed for such films as “Bridge Over the River Kwai,” “Indiscreet,” and “Billy Budd,” is a recognized “home-away from home” for both discerning leisure and business travelers.
It is famous for offering magnificent views of the Victoria Harbor and city skyline, its collection of 10 outstanding restaurants and bars — including three with Michelin stars — and a Shanghaiese-inspired holistic spa, indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center, it has a rich history and style that makes its impeccable service and elegance a byword for travelers the world over.
The Mandarin was the first hotel on Hong Kong Island, opening progressively in 1963 by several floors a week and by 1967 was listed by Fortune magazine as one of the 11 great hotels in the world. Since then, it has garnered numerous accolades and is now widely considered one of the best hotels in the world.
In 1967, the then general manager maintained that, “Every guest is special and we want to welcome him or her as if he or she were returning home. A great hotel should be able to anticipate guests’ needs and make an extraordinary task seem routine.” The same philosophy still applies at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong today.
Of course, through the years, the hotel has been added to, redecorated, refurbished, and undergone so many changes. But these only solidified further the legend that it has become. Very few Asian hotels are as impressive in history or stature.
Each of the hotel’s suites and rooms is individually furnished and decorated to embrace the hotel’s Oriental heritage, and guests get personalized check-in. Beddings are not only luxuriant and gorgeous but also comfortable: pure linen bed sheets, pillow menu, designer bathroom products by Hermes (rooms) and Acqua Di Parma (suites). All have high-speed Internet access, Interactive entertainment system, SMART lighting controls, DVD players, and high-definition plasma TV. Room service and butler service is available 24 hours a day and those traveling with kids can enjoy children and family amenities.
Staying at the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong also means enjoying exceptional dining pleasure at 10 individual restaurants and bars including three Michelin-starred restaurants: Pierre, Mandarin Grill, and Man Wah, getting indulgent with a range of therapies, including traditional Chinese medicine at Mandarin Spa, and experiencing other facilities and services that have few equals.
And especially for business travelers, there are 12 meeting and banqueting rooms ideal for all events, from conferences to weddings, with state-of-the-art technology and assurance of assistance from an experienced team of event managers who can tailor-make events to specific requirements, not to mention service that can only be described as unparalleled and gourmet creations that are certainly innovative.
Located in the heart of Central district, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong is also perfect for those in the city for leisure and exploration as it is just a short walk away from the city’s finest shopping, entertainment, and major business areas, and a mere 40 minutes drive to the airport.
Contact Details:
Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2522 0111
www.mandarinoriental.com/hongkong
