Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong
Monica Tindall
A stay at Kowloon Shangri-La is dazzling from arrival to departure. Shimmering lobby chandeliers light up the entrance. Glittery Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong skyline scenes jewel the evenings. Gleaming marble floors reflect a location of luxury, and the beaming smiles of service staff impress with their willingness to assist. Everything seems to shine more brightly at Kowloon Shangri-La.
Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong – Location
If the views from Kowloon Shangri-La don’t permanently mesmerise you, you might consider leaving some time for exploration of the adjacent Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon’s famous entertainment and shopping district. Temple Street Market is minutes away and an irresistible stop for bargain hunters. A casual meander along the waterfront (connected by a pedestrian bridge directly to the hotel) delivers a fresh breeze and an eyeful of the remarkable city skyline. Just down the bay are museums, galleries and Hong Kong’s largest shopping mall, Harbour City.
Kowloon Shangri-la, Hong Kong – Rooms
Hong Kong is not known for its large hotel rooms, but Kowloon Shangri-La defies the stereotype and provides decadently grand spaces for the island. Floor-to-ceiling windows enhance the feeling of ampleness, and harbour-facing rooms fill the eyes with sweeping water views.
The entrance is dramatic. As guests place their room card into the key holder, blackout curtains automatically open, uncloaking a postcard-perfect panorama of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline.
A neutral palette paints the rooms. Splashes of contemporary art adorn the walls, while furniture is modern but timeless in style. The clever cabinet design reveals a well-stocked mini-bar and tea and coffee-making facilities (espresso machine included) on one side. With the slide of a panel, a wardrobe with robes, slippers, shoehorns and iron is found on the other.
Luxuriously smooth sheets dress the beds, and personal customisation is made possible with a pillow menu. Marble bathrooms are fitted with a separate shower and bathtub. An adjustable television screen faces the toilet and bath, encouraging you to take your time with grooming.
Shangri-La’s success, however, is in the details. The team goes beyond expectations in providing the customary services of a five-star hotel. Besides the high-speed Internet connection and in-room safe, rooms include binoculars, turn-down service, an umbrella, shoe-shine service, bathroom scales, and other requests are just a phone call away.
Horizon Club
The Kowloon Shangri-La’s executive lounge, the Horizon Club, is worth a few extra dollars for the upgrade. Tasteful furniture is spread across the room in alcoves of giant bay windows looking over the harbour. It’s a spectacular sight at any time of day, but early evening, as the sun sets and the Hong Kong skyline is illuminating, is a special kind of magic. Cocktails, beer and wine, are served at this time, alongside a buffet of nibbles. In reality, what is meant to be a light pre-dinner bite could easily be made into a substantial meal, tapas style.
Throughout the day, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, including fresh juices, carbonated drinks and tea and coffee, are provided. Bite-size sweets and savouries complement a light selection of fresh and dried fruit. Something special is a line-up of jars highlighting local goodies such as sour plums and dried apricots.
A luscious spread of nourishment is prettily arranged to start the day: fresh, dried and poached fruits; yoghurt; cereals; freshly-baked bread and pastries; cold cuts; cheeses; hot items and; dim sum. Western and Asian plates are ordered a la carte. My omelette with cheese and spinach was perfectly prepared with very little oil making it slightly golden on the outside but cooked through. A simple adornment of fresh asparagus, potato chunks and a sprig of fresh herbs sided the dish.
Food and Beverage
The hotel has several dining options, including the Michelin-starred Shang Palace, which serves exquisite Cantonese cuisine and a must-try dim sum menu. The Café Kool offers various international dishes and a breakfast buffet, including an extensive selection of fresh fruits, pastries, and hot international and local dishes.
Stay a while longer, and you’ll be tempted by the delicate décor of Nadaman, Kowloon Shangri-La’s Japanese restaurant, and the sensuous Italian setting at Angelini. The Lobby Lounge offers all-day snacks and drinks, while the Tapas Bar is a popular haunt in the evenings for new-world wines and international tapas.
Kowloon Shangri-la, Hong Kong – Facilities
The hotel’s facilities include a fitness centre, indoor pool, and spa. My agenda for this trip was quite packed, so I didn’t spend much time in the facilities apart from a fast and furious workout each morning. The facilities are older but well-maintained, and I always appreciate gyms that can be accessed 24-7.
Service
Facilities, activities and location aside, the people have always made Kowloon Shangri-La special. From the moment I entered the hotel, I was greeted with exceptional hospitality. I don’t know what marvellous memory training they employ, but staff address guests by name and even remembered my favoured drink choices after my first night. When asking for directions around the hotel, I was never just told verbally but was personally escorted to the desired location. As for advice on transport and sights to see in the area, it felt like I was talking to old friends who couldn’t do enough for us to make our stay a pleasant one.
Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong Review
Kowloon Shangri-la has withstood the test of time in the rapidly growing hospitality industry in Hong Kong. It has built a reputation for providing excellent service, prime location, scrumptious dim sum, and stunning views. However, as with any establishment, it has its pros and cons.
On the one hand, the hotel’s prime location in Kowloon offers easy access to some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Its luxurious accommodations and impeccable service make guests feel pampered and cared for during their stay. The dining options, particularly the dim sum, are a highlight that should be noticed. And the panoramic views of Victoria Harbour are breathtaking, adding an extra touch of magic to any visit.
On the other hand, some guests may find that the hotel’s age is starting to show. While the rooms are comfortable and spacious, the facilities may benefit from more modern amenities found in newer establishments. The hotel’s popularity can also result in crowded public areas, particularly during peak seasons.
Overall, Kowloon Shangri-la remains a top choice for those looking for a memorable and luxurious stay in Hong Kong. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a balance of comfort, convenience, and indulgence.
Reasons to stay at Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong: excellent location with stunning views of Victoria Harbour, walking distance to incredible shopping, dining and entertainment, and public transport access literally from the doorstep; large rooms; Michelin-starred restaurants; Horizon Club Lounge.
Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong
64 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East
+852 2721 2111
www.shangri-la.com/en/hongkong/kowloonshangrila
Find more recommendations for gourmet travel to Hong Kong here, and stay up-to-date on the latest culinary happenings around Malaysia here and here.
Well, what to expect? It’s Shangri La no less! Absolutely gorgeous!