One day in Hong Kong
It’s so much more than just a stopover destination, writes
The place
The Skycity Marriott, 1 SkyCity Rd East, Lantau, Hong Kong. On the edge of Lantau Island and on the banks of the South China Sea, this five-star hotel is perfectly located. It’s close to most tourist attractions, and is just a five-minute bus ride away from Hong Kong International Airport. There are convenient (and free) shuttles that travel to and from the international airport every 20 minutes.
The space
Walking in at 9am, the lobby is packed but the check-in process is so efficient that just 15 minutes later I’m in my room. With 658 guest rooms, 11 meeting rooms, a grand ballroom, five restaurants, a 24/7 fitness centre, swimming pool and spa, this hotel is huge and certainly not lacking any facilities. For a hotel that has been operational since 2008, it’s been well maintained and still retains a new look about it.
Room
My deluxe double room is large and airy with a giant window that looks out onto the ferry terminal. It’s a characteristically foggy day, so I can only just make out the city skyline in the distance.
There are sea-view and airport-view rooms that would be good for plane spotters.
My room is clean, neat and definitely not over-the-top when it comes to the decor with blue carpet and muted tones of gold. It’s understated but chic. There are two big, comfortable double beds, a sofa, a table with chairs, a TV and a large rain shower in the bathroom. All the usual amenities are here, including toiletries, bathrobe, slippers and a well-stocked mini-bar. Wi-fi is available for a fee.
Stepping out
If you’re travelling with family, hop on the hotel’s free shuttle to Hong Kong Disneyland. Check out the new Iron Man experience, explore Tarzan’s Treehouse or Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. By 2023 the park aims to have added new Marvel and Frozen themed areas.
Head out to Ngong Ping 360, the aerial tramway that connects you to Ngong Ping Village where you’ll find the famous Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery and the Wisdom Path. Try the Crystal Cabin gondola, the glass bottom gives you the best views. You could also take the tram to Victoria Peak - the city’s highest viewpoint. A Peak Tram Sky Pass gives you access to the Sky Terrace, and panoramic views over the city and outlying islands. If you’re exploring the city at night, hang out at Victoria Harbour for the Symphony of Lights, a nightly laser show that’s been named the ‘‘World’s largest permanent Light and Sound show’’ by the Guinness World Records.
Verdict
As the only international five-star hotel on the island, the hotel is in a great position. It offers a convenient base to explore Hong Kong, or just the spot for a decent sleep before your next flight.
Essentials
Double rooms at the Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel start from $230 per night and range up to $385. See booking.com.
Highlight
The proximity to the airport and the main tourist attractions; it makes a short stopover much more enjoyable.
The SkyCity Marriott on Lantau Island is a convenient base to explore Hong Kong, or just the spot for a decent sleep before your next flight.
Lowlight
This is a bit of a First World problem but there were so many lights and switches in my room that my jetlagged-brain took longer than usual to locate them all and switch them off.
The writer stayed as a guest of Booking.com