The Ritz Carlton has a reputation worldwide as a top class luxury brand and it has taken that reputation a notch higher by launching the Ritz Carlton Hong Kong. Housed in the spanking new International Commerce Centre in Kowloon, the hotel stretches from the 102nd to the 118th floors and has the honor of being the tallest hotel in the world. And because of it extraordinary height every room, bar or restaurant offers stunning views of the Victoria Harbor and the Hong Kong island. The International Commerce Centre is connected to the Kowloon metro station through a fancy shopping mall. You can reach the hotel exploring the luxurious offerings by Gucci and Prada on the way. Guests can come directly to the ninth floor to catch a ride on the express elevator that travels at over nine meters per second. You reach the 103rd floor for check-in formalities in barely 52 seconds. The opulence of the hotel is very noticeable and yet very subtle. You can’t miss the hand-tufted wool and silk carpets or the chandelier with 100,000 hand-made crystal pieces.
International design firm LTW Designworks has been responsible for the spectacular interiors and the striking color palette. The restaurants have been designed by Japan’s SPIN Design Studio. The three main restaurants are located on the 102nd floor. Tosca is the Italian restaurant that serves the simple southern Italian cuisine with a sophisticated twist. Tin Lung Heen restaurant serves traditional Cantonese fare. The Lounge & Bar is an all-purpose spot for a relatively more casual meal. The Chocolate Library is an afternoon tea and chocolate emporium that is become very popular with the local guests. It is advisable to book in advance if you plan to indulge yourself. The Ozone Bar is on the 118th floor. The floor also boasts of an infinity pool and three Jacuzzis. ESPA, the UK based company operates the marvelous spa.
The tallest hotel has a total of sumptuously decorated 312 rooms. All the rooms feature blinds and sheer curtains controlled by buttons on side tables. Every room features an espresso machine and the honor bar that offers every drink from pop to bubbly. But it is the bathroom that is a pleasant surprise with a deep bath tub, separate glass-door waterfall shower, double sinks with orange Onex countertops and a wall mounted flat screen TV. All this is backed by almost overbearing service by a large number of young and attractive staff. You might even have a staff pressing an elevator button for you. The restaurants and the bar also have very gracious but professional service. The front office staff is also very businesslike and efficient. Overall the Ritz Carlton Hong Kong is one of the best properties even by their high standards. The elevation of the hotel and the views of the Harbor and the city add another aspect to the great experience. It is no surprise that the locals have also taken to the hotel in a big way making it an ideal place for business and pleasure. The rates might seem to be on the higher side but in final analysis it is worth it.
