InterContinental Hong Kong’s Pool Terrace
Photo Courtesy of InterContinental Hotel Group
Winter is hazy, spring is rainy, summer is humid — but fall in Hong Kong? It’s by far the best time of year. Beautiful blue skies aside, the season is jam-packed with all kinds of art, music and dining events that will make a fantastic first impression.
As Seen in the Movies
Chinese film Lost in Hong Kong took the city by storm in September with its hilarious storyline and beautifully shot scenes at Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star InterContinental Hong Kong. To celebrate its big-screen close-up, the hotel has launched its own cinema-inspired suite promotion. Travelers who book the As Seen in the Movies presidential suite package before December 17 will get the red-carpet treatment even before they set foot in the hotel with Bentley airport transfer, as well as 40 percent off the usual suite price tag, 24-hour butler service, executive lounge access, a tasting dinner at Four-Star Yan Toh Heen Cantonese restaurant and an insider itinerary that leads you to famous movie scenes around town — that is, if you can tear yourself away from the 7,000-square-foot suite’s incredible rooftop Jacuzzi overlooking Victoria Harbour.
The Peninsula Hong Kong, Photo Courtesy of The Peninsula Hotels
For Your Eyes Only
The next installment of the James Bond series is set to hit theaters this fall and Five-Star The Peninsula Hong Kong is taking a note from the silver screen with a covert operation of its own. The hotel’s For Your Eyes Only event series will kick off with an “All About Bond at The Peninsula” photo exhibition by acclaimed British photographer Terry O’Neill from November 4 to December 10. The esteemed lensman has shot five Bonds, dozens of Bond Girls, Frank Sinatra and several other timeless movie stars. The series will also include a VIP License to Thrill six-course dinner at Four-Star Gaddi’s on November 4, featuring O’Neill as the guest of honor and five champagnes from Bollinger. Travelers looking to stay overnight to soak up the cinematic atmosphere can ask about A Bond-worthy Stay, a package which aims to channel the Bond’s glamorous lifestyle through a luxurious suite, dinner, drinks and a Rolls-Royce transfer.
Swire Symphony Under The Stars
The esteemed Hong Kong Philharmonic is tuning up for its annual Swire Symphony Under the Stars concert, conducted by Jaap van Zweden. It’s pretty much what it sounds like — a gorgeous outdoor orchestra, taking place on the night of November 21 at the Central Harbourfront. There may not be too many stars in sight under the neon lights of Hong Kong, but concertgoers will enjoy harborside views of the twinkling skyline — not to mention synchronized fireworks. The program includes music from Tchaikovsky, Ravel, Respighi, J. Strauss, Beethoven and more.
Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival
The Hong Kong Tourism Board is throwing its biggest Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival yet at the ever-evolving Central Harbourfront. From October 22 to 25, the outdoor festival will show off more than 300 different vendors devoted to whisky, craft beer, sake, food and vino. Check out the new Wine Experts Zone, where sommeliers walk you through labels from over 20 countries. There’s also a special afternoon tea showcase from Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong on the culinary calendar. If you can’t make it by October, not to worry: November is the city’s official Wine & Dine Month, so expect a series of delicious promotions and events across town.
Marco Polo German Bierfest
Every year the Marco Polo German Bierfest brings a little taste of Bavaria to Hong Kong with 23 days of live music, food and lots of Erdinger beer — all enjoyed on long, communal-style tables that channel a true Oktoberfest spirit. Through November 7, travelers can join in on the fun any night of the week. Tickets are sold at the entrance to the event, which is taking place on a gorgeous deck that overlooks Victoria Harbour. Just be sure to pack your favorite lederhosen.
