On the Road: Hong Kong
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We know there are a million travel guidebooks out there, but we’ve created a handful of destination miniguides designed specifically for working girls on the go. So whether it’s a quick stopover for a meeting or a weeklong conference, here’s everything you need to know about…
Hong Kong
Where to Stay
Expense Account: The Peninsula. Money is no object at the world-famous Peninsula, as the on-call fleet of chauffeured Rolls-Royces and the rooftop helipad both clearly demonstrate. Can’t be bothered with any sort of commute? Book one of the private seminar rooms and enjoy cutting-edge technology and superb catering services as part of the package. Spend some downtime at the spa, swimming pool, or sun terrace and you’ll practically be begging to be sent back for the next big meeting. Rates begin at HK$3,700/$480. Salisbury Road, Kowloon; +852.2920.2888; hongkong.peninsula.com
Romantic Weekend: The Luxe Manor. The Luxe Manor bills itself as “the place where desires become realities,” and in the Suite Liaison—with its circular bed, padded walls, and floral ceiling mural—you’ll either be in the mood for love or laughter. This quirky boutique hotel may not be traditional, but it’s certainly memorable. Themed-suite rates change by season, and superior rooms begin at HK$2,000/$260. 39 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852.3763.8880; theluxemanor.com
On the Cheap: Paris Guesthouse. Travel to Hong Kong, stay in Paris—go figure. With en suite baths, Wi-Fi throughout, and a staff that can speak fluent English, the Paris Guesthouse is a dream destination for those on a budget. Run by an ex–British military man, the hotel is secured with closed-circuit television cameras, and guests can store their valuables in a safe-deposit box. It may not look like much from the outside, but inside the Paris could arguably be the best deal in the city. Singles start at $24, doubles at $34. Other taxes and charges may apply. 7/F D8 Chungking Mansions, 33–44 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon; +852.9832.4807; parisguesthousehk.com
Where to Eat
Business Dinner: SPOON by Alain Ducasse. This contemporary French restaurant strives to provide a “total concept” rather than just a meal, with the food, decor, and service all playing a part. Stay away from the Sexy SPOON Menu to avoid mixing business with pleasure. 18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong; +852.2313.2323
Hot Spot: Dragon-i. Dragon-i (“D-I” to those in the know) often tops the world’s best bar lists, but it’s just as busy with diners as it is drinkers. Chinese and Japanese dishes prevail, though at lunchtime, soups and salads are just as popular as dim sum and bento boxes. The strawberry bellini, made with fresh strawberries, is the perfect dessert drink. The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852.3110.1222; dragon-i.com.hk
Eating Alone: Café Deco. The harbor view from the Café Deco at the top of Victoria Peak will leave you speechless, so it’s the perfect place to go if you have no one else to talk to anyway. Live jazz in the evenings provides a civilized ambience, and the eclectic menu—everything from pastas and pizzas to naan bread and roast duck—should satisfy even the pickiest palate. Peak Galleria, 118 Peak Road, The Peak, Hong Kong; +852.2849.5111
Coffee and Internet: Pacific Coffee. Pacific Coffee shops are as ubiquitous in Hong Kong as Starbucks are in Seattle. The coffee may not be life-changing, but it’s hot, the shops are clean, and the Wi-Fi is usually uninterrupted. Various locations; pacificcoffee.com
Where to Shop
Business Critical: Times Square. Much like its New York namesake, this giant shopping center is always buzzing. From edgier pieces at Anna Suo to conservative clothing at Max Mara, there’s a little something to suit everyone at Times Square. 1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong; +852.2118.8900; timessquare.com.hk
Date Night: Sam’s Tailor. If you’ve always lusted after tailor-made clothing, then Hong Kong might be the place to get something made to measure. Sam’s has served royalty and celebrities, but can still do a quick turnaround for any customer. Ground floor, Burlington Arcade, 94 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong; +852.2367.9423; samstailor.biz
Techie: Broadway. Broadway is a chain store that stocks various brands of cameras, computers, cell phones, MP3 players, and much, much more. Communication can sometimes be a bit difficult, but all prices are clearly listed and many staff members are multilingual. 018 G/F, Cityplaza, 1111 King’s Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong; +852.2884.0324; ibroadway.com.hk
Where to Play and Primp
One-Stop Shopping: Stanley Market. Legend has it that the Stanley Market area was once a pirates’ outpost, and there are still plenty of hidden treasure to be had. Arts, crafts, silks, and souvenirs are all abundant and a good value at Stanley Market, so give yourself plenty of time to wander around before committing to the first thing you see. Stanley Market Road, Stanley, Hong Kong
Best Day Spa: Chuan Spa. There’s something to be said about a spa that is happy to arrange for either limousine service home or an overnight stay in one of their residences. For a less costly indulgence, consider adding chocolates and/or champagne to any of your spa appointments, or even invite a special someone along for a couples treatment. Langham Place Hotel, 555 Shanghai Street, Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong; +852.3552.3510; chuanspa.com/en
Best Blow-Dry: HippFish. HippFish is not only fun to say, but fun to visit. International visitors are common, and staff members can discuss even the most technical updo in English. In case of a real emergency, GHD hair straighteners are also sold. Elgin Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852.2815.3638
How to Get Around
Preferred Airport: Hong Kong International. Hong Kong International Airport was voted World’s Best Airport by world travelers in 2007. Situated 16 miles away from the mainland, the airport sits on its own little island, so if you’re a nervous flier you might want to close your eyes during landing. The Airport Express train runs every 12 minutes and stops in both Kowloon and Central (Hong Kong Station), where it also links up with the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), Hong Kong’s tram/train system. On the way back, don’t miss Hong Kong Station’s in-town Check In service and luggage check to make your journey to the airport that little bit lighter.
Hit the Road: There are plenty of ways to see Hong Kong. The MTR, a double-decker, air-conditioned public bus service, taxis, rickshaws, ferries, helicopters, and even hydrofoils can all be booked to get around various areas of Hong Kong as well as for day trips out to the New Territories and even Macua. The only thing that is somewhat rare in Hong Kong is rental cars.
Weather and Wardrobe: If you pack only one thing to take to Hong Kong, make it an umbrella. During the monsoon season (May to September), you’ll need it to shield yourself from the driving rain, and on clear days you might be tempted to use it to keep yourself out of the strong sun. Bring lots of layers, too, because air conditioning can be intense in public buildings.