Hong Kong has a total of 18 districts, which includes this one, Tsim Sha Tsui, in southern Kowloon. Its name means “sharp sandspit” in Cantonese and it’s home to a major port. The prevalence of cruise ships has ensured its credentials with tourists, offering glitzy shopping malls, high-end boutiques, museums and restaurants that cater to Western tastes. Take the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour from the Tsim Sha Tsui pier to Wan Chai. And catch the incredible free display (“A Symphony of Lights”), that illuminates the skyline nightly at 8pm.
The Peninsula
The Peninsula. Opened in 1928 and described as ‘the grand old lady’ of the island, she is a combination of all things modern and classic. Arrive by helicopter (it has its own private landing pad), take tea accompanied by a live orchestra, luxuriate in the spa, enjoy a sundowner on the terrace and dine at seven different eateries. There are 165 sleek and modern rooms in the original section of the hotel, with a further 135 in the new tower. Children are made very welcome too, with their own cheery bedding, bathrobes and cosy slippers.
Rosewood Hong Kong
On Tsim Sha Tsui’s waterfront lies this 65-storey skyscraper, housing 413 rooms and a superb wellness centre, Asaya Spa, with a huge range of holistic, therapeutic and aesthetic treatments. Guests arrive through a charming cobbled driveway, and cosy lobby, before heading to spacious rooms beautifully designed by Tony Chi – most of which have harbour views. The decor nods toward Hong Kong’s heritage, with more than a hint of 1930s Hollywood glamour thrown in. Rosewood’s art collection is impressive, with work from the likes of Damien Hirst on view. Asian, Western, Indian and steakhouse cuisine are available, as well as a delightful afternoon tea in The Butterfly Room.
Kowloon Shangri La
Located on Tsim Sha Tsui East’s waterfront, guests are greeted in Shangri La’s lobby by an indoor three-tier fountain, oversized glittering crystal chandeliers, stunning art and – in the evening – live music. This Asian brand offers some of the largest rooms in the city, in traditional classical style. There are seven places to eat and drink, with an opulent buffet breakfast served at Cafe Kool. Head to the basement and you’ll discover a modern fitness suite, overlooking a plunge pool.
