Never Sleeps
Hong Kong is more than just a destination—it’s a vibrant metropolis where creativity, tradition and unforgettable moments beautifully unfold
As the director of Genting Group’s Dream Cruises and the executive vice president of new ship designs, along with his role as Genting Malaysia’s senior vice president of hospitality and leisure, Loui Lim has become synonymous with his jetsetting lifestyle. Despite his global travels, Hong Kong holds a special place in Lim’s heart, where he both grew up and worked in the city for more than a decade. Reflecting on his time here, he reminisces, “I miss the daily commute on the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour to reach my office, hiking the beautiful trails and nature reserves, and the vibrant energy of Lan Kwai Fong. Hong Kong offers so many diverse experiences that simply cannot be replicated in any other city.”
Now, during his brief return to Hong Kong alongside Tatler Malaysia, join Lim as he delves into the city’s latest offerings, eager to uncover the unique experiences it continues to reveal.
WHERE ART AND DESIGN CONVERGE
Located just steps away from Rosewood Hong Kong in Tsim Sha Tsui, K11 Musea stands as one of the city’s must-visit malls. The spaces within seamlessly intertwine fashion, art and design, creating a rich mosaic of experiences. Like many others, Lim found himself captivated by the mall’s centrepiece—a striking 10-metre Gold Ball encased in carved glass panels. He also checked out an array of exclusive Hong Kong merchandise at the MOMA Design Store, touted to be Asia’s largest, picking up some quirky souvenirs along the way.
Over at West Kowloon Cultural District, M+ has transformed Hong Kong’s promenade into Asia’s first global contemporary visual culture museum, featuring 33 galleries with visually arresting exhibitions. Design and architecture define the things we use, create the spaces we
inhabit, and ultimately inform the way we see and live in the world. Things, Spaces, Interactions showcases 500 examples of furniture, architecture, graphic arts and other design objects in Asia and across the globe over the last seven decades. A treat for the senses, this exhibition promises a kaleidoscopic, mind-bending experience.
Within walking distance, The Hong Kong Palace Museum beckons visitors with its striking facade. Offering a captivating glimpse into Chinese culture and arts, history enthusiasts are in for a delightful treat exploring historical artefacts, exquisite paintings, and prehistoric treasures. Lim was particularly captivated by the ongoing exhibition, From Dawn to Dusk: Life in the Forbidden City. This immersive journey into 18th-century court life traces the footsteps of emperors and empresses, providing a rare opportunity to unravel the intricacies of ancient Chinese traditions. The museum is also one of the popular places to enjoy Hong Kong’s magnificent sunset views.
EAT, DRINK, REST. REPEAT
Hong Kong is a renowned culinary Mecca, and Lim has many fond memories of dining out with his friends throughout the city. On this trip, he attended the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival where he sampled a mix of Hong Kong-inspired cocktails and local dishes from different countries. He also savoured a seven-course dinner at Tirpse, an upscale restaurant nestled on the second floor of K11 Musea, offering breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour. Originally from Tokyo, Tirpse gained fame for earning a Michelin star within two months of its 2015 opening. Its Hong Kong outpost delights diners with a fusion of world-class French cuisine and Japanese precision.
For Lim, the essence of Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife is encapsulated at Darkside, an elegant cocktail parlour in
Rosewood Hong Kong. Ranked among Asia’s 50 Best Bars for three consecutive years, Darkside offers a curated selection of rare aged spirits, vintage cigars, classic cocktails and live jazz.
For those seeking accommodation, a central location is key. Rosewood Hong Kong, positioned near K11 Musea and other attractions, provides Lim with an unparalleled five-star experience. With 413 guest rooms, a 25-metre-long infinity pool and exceptional facilities, the hotel offers both luxury and convenience. Among its highlights are 11 bars and restaurants, including its flagship Cantonese restaurant, The Legacy House, helmed by chef Li Chi Wai. The restaurant pays tribute to Dr Cheng Yu-tung, the patriarch of the Rosewood Hotel Group’s Cheng family.
Brimming with culture, style and a diverse array of flavours, Hong Kong entices as a bustling metropolis, earning its reputation as the city that never sleeps.