What’s it like? This is the latest in a slew of five-star resorts to open in what local authorities hope will be the Chinese version of the French Riviera, and from the looks of the number of five-star chains setting down stakes – next is a Ritz-Carlton, they’re well on the way to building up that reputation. The Hilton, like its competitors, uses hardly any air-conditioning in its public spaces and boasts a stunning design concept (especially in the rooms that feature open-bath experiences) that makes it seem ahead of its time.
Where is it? Within the fast-developing Yalong Bay National Resort District on the southernmost tip of Hainan Island, and 30 minutes away from Phoenix International Airport in Sanya City. From Melian Airport in Haikou City, it’s two and half hours away.
How many rooms? 501 guestrooms, suites and villas, ranging from 48.5sq m to 353sq m with majority of them facing the South China Sea and furnished in contemporary Asian style that uses natural materials like hemp and wood.
Room facilities: Broadband internet access costs US$10 for 24 hours, and there is a choice of a circular bathtub or a bathtub by the balcony (but not to worry, the unit is designed in such a way no one will be able to catch glimpse of your glorious assets). Other amenities include flat-screen TV, DVD/CD player, minibar, hair dryer and shower stall with “deluge” and handheld showerheads.
Business facilities: Meeting planners will appreciate the versatile MICE Pavilion linked to the hotel by covered walkway, featuring over 3,000sqm of space on two floors that consists of the ballroom and 11 function rooms. The lawn and beachfront afford more event possibilities.
Restaurants: The options wouldn’t be out of place in a cosmopolitan setting. .IZE, the resort’s stand-alone signature outlet, has a daring chef who likes to experiment in presentation but won’t compromise on quality and taste. At China Harvest, it’s good Chinese food at reasonable prices. The Big Kitchen is the one for all-day dining but be patient with the servers here, especially during breakfast on weekends when a larger than usual crowd causes them to completely forget orders (it happened twice to me).
Bars: Spend some part of the day at La-La Bar by the pool, then move to the open-air Teak Lounge for sunset cocktails or after-dinner drinks while enjoying the live band music. Then wind up at Bar d’Or, a sensuously chic lounge with great cigars and chill-out sounds.
Leisure facilities: An abundance of them – you may never want to leave, but notable is the 6,780sq m Spa Retreat featuring spa valets who will even pick you up from your room and escort you to your appointment with bliss. And the lagoon-style pool is also a standout.
Verdict: A destination in itself.
Price: Rate of US$374 for two nights with perks until September 28 is available.
Contact: Yalong Bay National Resort District, Sanya, Hainan 572000, tel 86 898 8858 8888, www.hilton.com
Margie T Logarta
