The much-anticipated Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong opened Tuesday, March 29, as the highest hotel in the world and I was privileged to have been inside the hotel for 10 days as the newest Hong Kong icon prepared to open.
I can tell you first hand, the hotel will be a majestic presence in the already stunning city.
Occupying floors 102-118 of the International Commerce Centre, the Ritz-Carlton offers six restaurants, a Club Lounge, ESPA, and pool and fitness center on the 118th floor.
The guest rooms range in size and view, but no matter which room you're in you'll have a stunning view of either Hong Kong island, Victoria Harbour or the mountains.
Guestrooms are equipped with telescopes so you can enjoy the view from any angle, and for those of us who must work while here, each room is equipped with an ergonomic desk chair made especially for the hotel.
Having spent the past few days taste-testing the food at each of the hotel's restaurants, I can safely say you won't find a bad meal at the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong.
Tosca: The hotel's Italian restaurant features an open kitchen and menu items ranging from traditional Italian fare to Mediterranean dishes. Beware: It's easy to fill up on chef's fresh focaccia.
Tin Lung Heen: Cantonese and Chinese dishes are served for lunch and dinner. Must try's include the crispy chicken, barbecue pork puns and grouper and wok-fried noodles.
The Chocolate Library: Hong Kong's first ever chocolate library offers everything from traditional fondue to chocolate dipped foie gras and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Lounge & Bar: Located on the 102nd floor, the Lounge & Bar is a great meeting spot for pre- or post-dinner drinks, or for a lite bite before heading out for the evening.
OZONE: The Ritz-Carlton did it right when they designed OZONE, the highest bar in the world. OZONE offers tapas-style Japanese, Asian and Indian food alongside some of the best views from the hotel.
Pastry Gems: Located on the 9th floor entryway, Pastry Gems features chocolates, fresh-baked breads and cakes, and of course, pastries for those guests wanting to relax and watch the crowds stroll by before heading to floor 103.
If the rooms and the food don't tempt you, stop into Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong for the views. Nowhere in Hong Kong will you find views like those from this hotel.
My suggestion: Start your evening in the Lounge & Bar at one of the window tables, then make your way to OZONE to cap off the night.
Whether you're staying at the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong or just passing through, you'll never forget the experience.
Melanie Nayer is a hotel reviewer and expert on luxury travel around the world. She has covered all aspects of hotels including corporate restructures, re-branding initiatives, historical aspects and the best of the best in luxury hotels around the world. Melanie writes a weekly exclusive column for 4Hoteliers.com