Margie T Logarta rounds up a bevy of Hongkong hotels located near the major conference venues, and highlights what's on their agenda for catering to corporates eager to network.
Room providers in Hongkong have always been quick to capitalise on the city's reputation as a premier meetings and exhibition hub. Those especially in the vicinity of the Hongkong Convention & Exhibition Centre have obvioulsy benefited and also with the dubt of the AsiaWorld-Expo, so have the two nearby hotels.
With growing customer demand for more intimate and personalised conferences, hotel executives have again seized an opportunity to maximise use of their facilities. Mabel Kan, assistant director of sales-event management of Renaissance HarbourView, says: "People used to want to hold all their events in the convention centre, as it was the new thing then. Now they feel that kind of ambiance is not so conducive for a productive meeting. They also want variety during their tea breaks and meals." Gone are the days of flip charts and whiteboards, adds Kan, enter laptops and Wi-Fi. "That's why internet access is the first thing meeting planners will enquire about when deciding on a booking. THen they ask about the catering." With such concerns, hotels in Hongkong have stepped up to the plate in terms of service.
ROOM FACILITIES: Wi-Fi and wired internet in all rooms, LCD TVs with full cable access, in-room safe but not laptop-friendly, goose-down duvets and kitchenette in Deluxe and Executive units.
MEETING FACILITIES: A boardroom for 12 persons comes with a projector and plug-in internet access - No Wi-Fi.
RESTAURANTS: Only one, Cubix, which serves internerational cuisine and range of tapas. It is accessed from the street, although it can be seen from the lobby. BAR: None, but management is planning on in the corner of the restaurant. Wanchai is bar mecca. LEISURE FACILITIES: No gym but the hotel has corporate membership with California Fitness, which is a block away. Yoga mats are found in the Executive Rooms
BELLS & WHISTLES: Friendly and helpful staff and location in one Hongkong's most colourful precincts.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$113.
CONTACT: 41 Fleming Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 3607 2288, www.thefleming.com
ROOM FACILITIES: Oversized work desk, Wi-Fi and wired internet access, individual heat control, marble bath, automatic water boiler, dual-line phones, voicemail and robes among others.
MEETING FACILITIES: Hyatt's trend-setting The Residence product has been rolled out here, consisting of the Drawing Room, the Pantry and the Lounge. Art-deco feel.
RESTAURANTS: Eight outlets - among them One Harbour Road for award-winning Cantonese and Grissini where fresh breadstricks are preapred in front dinners. BAR: Hongkong byword JJ's just underwent a major makeover; Champagne Bar is an elegant gem. LEISURE FACILITIES: Plateau Spa offers overnight accommodation, five fintess and exercise studios, outdoor heated pool and 400-metre jogging track.
BELLS & WHISTLES: The original Grand Hyatt in the chain remains the template in design and service.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$287.
CONTACT: 1 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 2588 1234, www.hongkong.grand.hyatt.com
ROOM FACILITIES: Wi-FI internet access in some rooms, three phones, digital safe, pay movies and multi-TV channels among others.
MEETING FACILITIES: Two boardrooms where video conferencing through PCCW can be set up; a function room on the lower ground level can take 150 people.
RESTAURANTS: Le Menu offers an extensive buffet, while Canton Room does Oriental specialities. Both share a private room. Diploamtic and government types dine here all the time. BAR: The Lobby Lounge comes with street views, allowing for ample people-watching moments. LEISURE FACILITIES: There is a fitness centre but no swimming pool.
BELLS & WHISTLES: Immortalised in one of the most memorable novels on Hongkong - who can beat that?
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$217.
CONTACT: 72 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 2866 2166, www.lukkwokhotel.com
ROOM FACILITIES: Standard are satellite TV and interactive system, Wi-Fi and wired internet access, while suites and Biz Floor rooms get the extra fax facilities.
MEETING FACILITIES: Biz Lounge offers meeting room for six for two hours daily; five function rooms and boardroom are also available.
RESTAURANTS: Pepe's Cucina Italiana is New York bistro in style and Century Cafe is popular for its buffet. An excellent Shanghainese restaurant is run by a concessionaire. BAR: Ak's Lounge on the mezzanine and the Lobby Lounge are both relaxing corners. LEISURE FACILITIES: Outdoor swiming pool and well-equipped gym with full selection of weights and sauna for men and women.
BELLS & WHISTLES: Location, location, location.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$141.
CONTACT: 238 Jaffe Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 2598 8888, www.novotel.com
ROOM FACILITIES: Sound-proofed windos, open bathroom concept, wireless DECT phone with voice-mail system, LCD TVs, in-room safe with outlet to charge a laptop among others.
MEETING FACILITIES: Seven venues from 26 to 370 sqm such as the Lantau Room with 3.7-metre ceiling and outdoor pool area for cocktails.
RESTAURANTS: Asian fusion prepared in open kitchens at Essence, Mediterranean at Olea and tasty pastries at Moccato. BAR: Andante sways to cool jazz in the evenings. Drinks are even cooler. LEISURE FACILITIES: A 20-metre outdoor pool, gazebo and gym with the latest machines that feature 22-inch personal LCD TVs.
BELLS & WHISTLES: A design gem that is also comfortable to stay and work in.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$173.
CONTACT: 51 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hongkong, tel 852 3602 8888, www.accorhotels.com/asia
ROOM FACILITIES: Double-glazed windows to deadne the sound of aircraft taking off and Wi-Fi internet access among others.
MEETING FACILITIES: The new Executive Conference Centre has 13 meeting rooms, the latest AV stuff and Wi-Fi internet access.
RESTAURANTS: Outlets serve Japanese, international, steaks and seafood, northern Chinese, Cantonese and carvery items. BAR: China Coast Bar & Grill at the lobby is a great spot to wait out a connection. LEISURE FACILITIES: Indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a fully equipped gym.
BELLS & WHISTLES: Its wide range of facilities and services makes it a perennial winner.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$230.
CONTACT: 9 Cheong Tat Road, Chek Lap Kok, Hongkong, tel 852 2286 8888, www.regalhotel.com
ROOM FACILITIES: Fax machine in all rooms and suites; electronic safe, radio and various TV channels covering hotel updates and airline information.
MEETING FACILITIES: Newly renovated glass-ceilinged Oasis Room with views; Concord Room for 408, and four boardrooms. RESTAURANTS: Dynasty is packed regularly for its Cantonese specialities and private rooms; Scala for executive set lunches and the Coffee Shop and all-day dining. BAR: Lobby Lounge also serves buffet lunch for businessmen. LEISURE FACILITIES: Outdoor swimming pool, 240-metre jogging trail, golf driving range, two floodlit tennis courts and gym.
BELLS & WHISTLES: Unbeatable location and staff that's highly focused on serving corporates.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$166.
CONTACT: 1 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 2802 8888, www.renaissancehotels.com/hkghv
THE FLEMING
WHAT'S IT LIKE? A design-oriented boutique hotel that boasts enough quirky furnishings to make it to any current "hot list". A welcome addition to somewhat grubby Wanchai. WHERE IS IT? In the bar-and-babes district of Wanchai, walking distance to the MTR and Hongkong Convention & Exhibition Centre. To the airport, it's 40 minutes and 15 to Airport Express Line. HOW MANY ROOMS? 66 rooms occupy 12 of the 14 floors. Choose from Standard (21 sqm), Superior (25 sqm), Deluxe (30 sqm) and Executive Sales (36 sqm).ROOM FACILITIES: Wi-Fi and wired internet in all rooms, LCD TVs with full cable access, in-room safe but not laptop-friendly, goose-down duvets and kitchenette in Deluxe and Executive units.
MEETING FACILITIES: A boardroom for 12 persons comes with a projector and plug-in internet access - No Wi-Fi.
RESTAURANTS: Only one, Cubix, which serves internerational cuisine and range of tapas. It is accessed from the street, although it can be seen from the lobby. BAR: None, but management is planning on in the corner of the restaurant. Wanchai is bar mecca. LEISURE FACILITIES: No gym but the hotel has corporate membership with California Fitness, which is a block away. Yoga mats are found in the Executive Rooms
BELLS & WHISTLES: Friendly and helpful staff and location in one Hongkong's most colourful precincts.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$113.
CONTACT: 41 Fleming Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 3607 2288, www.thefleming.com
GRAND HYATT
WHAT'S IT LIKE? Still a stunner from the black-marble lobby to its spacious guestrooms with a view of Victoria Harbour. No wonder every visiting celebrity has stayed here at one time or another. WHERE IS IT? A special exit from the hotel leads directly to the Convention Centre lobby. Other linked passageways bring guests near to MTR station and night life options of Wanchai. HOW MANY ROOMS? 549 guestrooms and suites, most ith views of Victoria Harbour. Occupants of Grand Club Rooms enjoy access to the Lounge.ROOM FACILITIES: Oversized work desk, Wi-Fi and wired internet access, individual heat control, marble bath, automatic water boiler, dual-line phones, voicemail and robes among others.
MEETING FACILITIES: Hyatt's trend-setting The Residence product has been rolled out here, consisting of the Drawing Room, the Pantry and the Lounge. Art-deco feel.
RESTAURANTS: Eight outlets - among them One Harbour Road for award-winning Cantonese and Grissini where fresh breadstricks are preapred in front dinners. BAR: Hongkong byword JJ's just underwent a major makeover; Champagne Bar is an elegant gem. LEISURE FACILITIES: Plateau Spa offers overnight accommodation, five fintess and exercise studios, outdoor heated pool and 400-metre jogging track.
BELLS & WHISTLES: The original Grand Hyatt in the chain remains the template in design and service.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$287.
CONTACT: 1 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 2588 1234, www.hongkong.grand.hyatt.com
LUK KWOK
WHAT'S IT LIKE? The Luk Kwok of Richard Mason, Suzy Wong's author, no longer exits, but in its place is a well-lit modern product with turned-on staff. WHERE IS IT? In Wanchai, opposite the HK Academy of Performing Arts and walking distance to the Convention Centre. Buses headed for Central and the Western District stop outside the hotel. HOW MANY ROOMS? 196 guestrooms, including five suites and 14 Executive Floor rooms.ROOM FACILITIES: Wi-FI internet access in some rooms, three phones, digital safe, pay movies and multi-TV channels among others.
MEETING FACILITIES: Two boardrooms where video conferencing through PCCW can be set up; a function room on the lower ground level can take 150 people.
RESTAURANTS: Le Menu offers an extensive buffet, while Canton Room does Oriental specialities. Both share a private room. Diploamtic and government types dine here all the time. BAR: The Lobby Lounge comes with street views, allowing for ample people-watching moments. LEISURE FACILITIES: There is a fitness centre but no swimming pool.
BELLS & WHISTLES: Immortalised in one of the most memorable novels on Hongkong - who can beat that?
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$217.
CONTACT: 72 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 2866 2166, www.lukkwokhotel.com
NOVOTEL CENTURY
WHAT'S IT LIKE? A reliable hotel that has always enjoyed high occupancy due to loyal repeat business. Lobby is small and usually teeming with guests and flight crew. WHERE IS IT? In the heart of Wanchai and minutes from the Hongkong Convention & Exhibition Centre through the footbridge. Transportation is not a problem here. HOW MANY ROOMS? 511 rooms, of which 83 are the hip Biz Rooms on floors 10 to 17. Guest here are invited to enjoy the Biz Lounge's perks.ROOM FACILITIES: Standard are satellite TV and interactive system, Wi-Fi and wired internet access, while suites and Biz Floor rooms get the extra fax facilities.
MEETING FACILITIES: Biz Lounge offers meeting room for six for two hours daily; five function rooms and boardroom are also available.
RESTAURANTS: Pepe's Cucina Italiana is New York bistro in style and Century Cafe is popular for its buffet. An excellent Shanghainese restaurant is run by a concessionaire. BAR: Ak's Lounge on the mezzanine and the Lobby Lounge are both relaxing corners. LEISURE FACILITIES: Outdoor swiming pool and well-equipped gym with full selection of weights and sauna for men and women.
BELLS & WHISTLES: Location, location, location.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$141.
CONTACT: 238 Jaffe Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 2598 8888, www.novotel.com
NOVOTEL CITYGATE
WHAT'S IT LIKE? Minimalist interiors with some interesting design detailing (check out the wooden chandelier at Olea bistro) make this property a truly refreshing product. WHERE IS IT? Located in Tung Chung at the Citygate Mall that's gaining a reputation among shopaholics for its outlet stores. Five minutes away is AsiaWorld-Expo. HOW MANY ROOMS? 440 rooms, 140 of which are desingated Biz Rooms spread out on four floors.ROOM FACILITIES: Sound-proofed windos, open bathroom concept, wireless DECT phone with voice-mail system, LCD TVs, in-room safe with outlet to charge a laptop among others.
MEETING FACILITIES: Seven venues from 26 to 370 sqm such as the Lantau Room with 3.7-metre ceiling and outdoor pool area for cocktails.
RESTAURANTS: Asian fusion prepared in open kitchens at Essence, Mediterranean at Olea and tasty pastries at Moccato. BAR: Andante sways to cool jazz in the evenings. Drinks are even cooler. LEISURE FACILITIES: A 20-metre outdoor pool, gazebo and gym with the latest machines that feature 22-inch personal LCD TVs.
BELLS & WHISTLES: A design gem that is also comfortable to stay and work in.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$173.
CONTACT: 51 Man Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hongkong, tel 852 3602 8888, www.accorhotels.com/asia
REGAL AIRPORT
WHAT'S IT LIKE? Said to be the largest hotel in Hongkong at 72 sqm gross floor area. Boasts a wide range of amentities, making it a perfect gateway from the city. WHERE IS IT? Linked directly to the Hongkong International Airport passenger terminal by an air-conditioned corridor. A two-minute ride away is AsiaWorld-Expo. HOW MANY ROOMS? 1,140 guestrooms, with the recent addition of 18 Spa Rooms in the new HK$10 million (US$1.2 million) OM Spa.ROOM FACILITIES: Double-glazed windows to deadne the sound of aircraft taking off and Wi-Fi internet access among others.
MEETING FACILITIES: The new Executive Conference Centre has 13 meeting rooms, the latest AV stuff and Wi-Fi internet access.
RESTAURANTS: Outlets serve Japanese, international, steaks and seafood, northern Chinese, Cantonese and carvery items. BAR: China Coast Bar & Grill at the lobby is a great spot to wait out a connection. LEISURE FACILITIES: Indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a fully equipped gym.
BELLS & WHISTLES: Its wide range of facilities and services makes it a perennial winner.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$230.
CONTACT: 9 Cheong Tat Road, Chek Lap Kok, Hongkong, tel 852 2286 8888, www.regalhotel.com
RENAISSANCE
WHAT'S IT LIKE? Staid interiors but Renaissance Harbour View's location next to the Convention Centre assures the hotel of unflagging patronage and healthy occupancies. WHERE IS IT? Walking distance to the MTR station and fun of Wanchai's nightlife. Getting a taxi here is never a problem. HOW MANY ROOMS? 860 rooms, of which 65 percent enjoy Victoria Harbour views. Club Room guests have the lounge and other perks.ROOM FACILITIES: Fax machine in all rooms and suites; electronic safe, radio and various TV channels covering hotel updates and airline information.
MEETING FACILITIES: Newly renovated glass-ceilinged Oasis Room with views; Concord Room for 408, and four boardrooms. RESTAURANTS: Dynasty is packed regularly for its Cantonese specialities and private rooms; Scala for executive set lunches and the Coffee Shop and all-day dining. BAR: Lobby Lounge also serves buffet lunch for businessmen. LEISURE FACILITIES: Outdoor swimming pool, 240-metre jogging trail, golf driving range, two floodlit tennis courts and gym.
BELLS & WHISTLES: Unbeatable location and staff that's highly focused on serving corporates.
PRICES: Internet rates for three nights in late August start from US$166.
CONTACT: 1 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hongkong, tel 852 2802 8888, www.renaissancehotels.com/hkghv
