Part of me says I want to revisit the country’s ancient past and imbibe fragments of its culture. But another part of me wants to stay connected to the high-tech wonders of the modern world.
At the Mandarin, past and present merge into my five-star cocoon of comfort. At the push of a button, I enjoy state-of-the-art technology. Yet one gaze at a mural or a vase, and I relive centuries-old grandeur.
It happened to me at The Oriental Bangkok where I felt transported to that time when great writers like Somerset Maugham and Gore Vidal got ripples of inspiration in that charming area near the Chao Phraya River.
More recently, I experienced that Mandarin magic again during a weekend at the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong. It began at the airport where a Mandarin butler, impeccably dressed in a suit, gave a most comforting welcome on board an airport buggy, quickly retrieving my luggage and escorting me to a black limo. Talk about that much-vaunted Asian hospitality. Orientals really own the patent to making guests feel like royalty. Even if you are just a commoner like me.
The gigantic surprise was the sight of the newly renovated Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong.
For the first time since its US$140 million renovation in 2005 when it was closed for nine months, I saw this elegant edifice towering over my favorite Hong Kong Central area. "A living hotel requires constant additions, redecoration and refurbishment" is this hotel’s mantra, says communications director Shevaun Porter, as she proudly pointed out details in the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong’s latest incarnation.
My favorite new feature is the conversion of each guest room’s verandah into an extension which can be a breakfast nook, a mini office/writing room, or a sleeping area for a child or another guest. Yes, it has a big, soft sofa which converts into a bed. Its most thoughtful feature is the curtain, which gives this verandah privacy when needed.
My next fave feature is its built-in state-of-the-art entertainment system. Think Denon DVD/CD/radio surround sound media center with iPod and MP3 support, high-resolution LCD television, 59 complimentary TV channels (the highest in Hong Kong), Internet access and high speed wi-fi throughout the hotel, even the elevators, Smart lighting and temperature controls that record guest preferences so that when you return, the room is exactly as it was left. Plus, 24-hour business and technology butlers onsite, a first in Hong Kong.
And then there is the Mandarin Spa,offering holistic rejuvenation over three floors, following the Asian healing philosophies of traditional Chinese medicine in this, Hong Kong’s first Ayurveda sanctuary. This 1930s Shanghai-inspired spa offers a menu of treatments for tired or stressed bodies.
Most unforgettable was dinner at ManWah, which, I must warn you, is not your usual Chinese panciteria. Bring along your big appetite for Chinese food, but be prepared to be awed and feel romantic. Its exquisite centuries-old lamps provide just the right elegant lighting to a most delicious meal which comes with a beautiful panoramic view of Victoria Harbour. I could go on and on but photos would give a clearer view of the new Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong.
After all the renovation, I must say there is one thing that never changed here, though. That’s the thoughtful warmth and hospitality of the hotel as personified by Danny Lai, executive assistant manager-guest relations. His smile and sincerity are so very Mandarin.
Likewise for Shevaun Porter, who declares: "I’m very Mandarin. I dream in fans."
Well, I really am a big Mandarin fan. I like such refreshing air blowing gently into my stressed soul.