Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong

In a place and time where "newer and bigger" are often equated with "better and more reliable," where massive construction projects are transforming the face of a China on a daily basis, the classic Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, with roots dating back to 1963, remains a pillar of perfection and class.

While competing luxury properties often seem to mistake tacky elitism for exclusiveness, the Mandarin Oriental provides a truly elegant, chic and understated experience for all guests, whether they be international celebrities, returning business travelers or regular tourists visiting Hong Kong for the first time—just as they've been doing for almost half a century. From the hassle-free airport pickup to exquisite guest rooms, from superb dining venues to top-rate recreational facilities, the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong renews its commitment to delivering the tops in luxury and service every day. Substance, consistency and performance are what make the Mandarin Oriental one of the world's best hotels—not the flash and manufactured glamour typical of many an upstart rival.

During a recent trip to Hong Kong, China Travel checked in on the Mandarin Oriental to experience the extent of the hotel's VIP offerings. The results? Service and facilities that, as a total package, may well be unparalleled by any hotel in China.

Chek Lap Kok (HKG) to Central, Hong Kong Island

A Mercedes Benz S Class whisks travel-weary guests to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Aware of the severe stresses caused by travel, the Mandarin Oriental has an entire team designated to helping guests make an easy transition from the jet way all the way to the hotel.

Immediately after deplaning, a Mandarin porter will meet you outside the gate, gather your belongings and guide you through the airport, immigration, baggage claim and customs, after which you'll be met by a second representative who will lead you to a private car park, where a Mercedes Benz S-class and driver will be waiting.

The jet-black Benz, complete with reclineable heated massage bucket seats, is the perfect vehicle in which to stretch your tired travel legs during the 30-minute ride to the hotel, and the driver's selection of soothing music—Vivaldi, Sarah Brightman and Yo Yo Ma are all in the mix—combines with touches like a complimentary bottle of Evian and the latest South China Morning Post to put memories of the most turbulent of flights behind you as you speed smoothly toward the comforts that await at 5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong Island.

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong: Lobby

An historically fast check-in

Situated on the former site of the colonial Queen's Building, the Mandarin, as it was initially called, opened its doors in October 1963. At the time, it was the tallest building in Hong Kong, at 25 stories. Designed by John Howarth of Leigh & Orange architectural firm, the property originally towered above Hong Kong Island's waterfront; today, however, due to land reclamation the Mandarin stands two blocks south of Victoria Harbor's busy edge.

The original interior was designed by Hollywood art director Don Ashton, famous for his work on Bridge on the River Kwai and Billy Budd, but the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong underwent a massive renovation in 2005, when the hotel closed its doors for ten months in order to complete its rebirth as a premier 21st-century luxury property, albeit one with an inimitable pedigree.

That the Mandarin Oriental staff is dedicated to living up to both the hotel's legacy and its commitment to modern-day expectations is clear from the start. It would be very difficult indeed to find an easier or more pleasant check-in experience. A hotel representative meets you at the entrance, guides you through the lobby and accompanies you directly to your room to sign the appropriate waivers, confirmations and credit card guarantees: no lines, no waiting, no hassle, a seamless transition to supreme comfort.

For the rest of the story and more on the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong click the appropriate links below:

Opulence without pretension: Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong's guest rooms

Health, wealth and relaxation: Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong's facilities

A king's feast: Dining at the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong

Center stage: Hong Kong's Central District & the Mandarin Oriental

For additional hotel information and booking details check out the following links:

ChinaTravel.net interview: Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong GM Jonas Schuermann

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong official site

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong on Ctrip.com (Chinese language)