If you’re after a super-straightforward weekend break, then a staycation in one of Hong Kong’s many five-star hotels is the way forward. With a fabulous location, huge outdoor pool, great restaurants and onsite spa, the Grand Hyatt is a top choice for relaxing in the ‘Kong.
Situated on the Wan Chai waterfront right next to the Convention Centre, the Hyatt’s location makes for the perfect opportunity to soak up that spectacular view across Victoria Harbour and is currently undergoing a programme of renovations that will update the guest rooms from merely luxurious to super-plush.
We stayed in a Club Room that also allowed access to the private lounge on 30th floor, with its dining and lounge facilities adding an extra layer of comfort and convenience to the stay. The rooms themselves are light, bright and airy, with blonde wood and neutral-toned upholstery; along with gorgeous deco-style bathrooms, making this a very female-friendly environment (in stark contrast to some of the larger hotels that can be a little masculine and old-school in feel).
A very thoughtful touch is Hyatt’s new ‘Have You Forgotten Anything?’ card, which is left in the bathroom. You are invited to ring down to reception if you’re in need of anything from deodorant to a yoga mat, and a friendly member of staff will whisk it straight up to your room.
Facilities-wise, it’s all here; the largest outdoor hotel pool in Hong Kong, a well-equipped gym that’s open 24 hours a day, a jogging track, tennis and squash courts and even a kids playground if you have the munchkins in tow. Add to that a great range of in-house dining options, and you’ve got a perfect mini-break that ticks all the boxes.
Left the kids at home? Take the opportunity to check out Plateau Spa. This super-luxe retreat from Hong Kong’s hustle had me unwinding from the moment I crossed the threshold. The blonde wood theme continues here, with swank private rooms decked out in neutral tones, each with their own en suite bathroom. The Plateau Massage combines Shiatsu, Thai and Swedish techniques to transform even the most board-like body into something pliable once more. My therapist used her forearms, palms and a fair amount of pressure to roll the kinks out of my poor neglected spine, but was careful to check my comfort levels and adjust accordingly throughout. Although I opted for more pressure, this is a massage that is easily tailored according to your preference and desired results, with Relax, Flow and Detox aromatherapy oils to choose from. I was floating on air as I left, and felt noticeably less stiff the following day as my back enjoyed the benefits of the massage.
That night, we opted for the dinner buffet at Tiffin Lounge, which features a range of western and Asian options. The Thai section was a standout here, with a good range of authentic (and authentically spicy!) salads, noodles and rice dishes. France was also well represented, with a tasty Bouillabaisse and a cheese selection that we made sure we saved room for.
All in all, if you are looking for comfort, convenience and a top-notch location, you really can’t beat the Grand Hyatt. For our money, the 8-2-8 deal that the hotel is currently offering until the end of September is an absolute steal. It includes:
-One night’s accommodation in a Grand Harbour View Room
-Early check in from 8.00am
-Late check out until 8.00pm the next day
-Breakfast buffet for two at Grand Café (this can be enjoyed on the day of arrival or the next morning)
-Complimentary access to the hotel’s 50-metre pool, 24-hour fitness studios and sauna facilities
-Complimentary overnight parking for one vehicle
-Priced at HK$828+10% per person; each room requires a minimum of two persons and is subject to availability.
To reserve, just email [email protected] and make the most of these fabulous facilities while the sun shines. See you by the pool…
Grand Hyatt Hong Kong
1 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong.
Tel: 2588 1234
Email: [email protected]
http://hongkong.grand.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html