It's that time of year again, when people get frantic. Not with last minute gift shopping, mind you. I am talking about frequent flyers scrambling to figure out how they are going to get those last few thousand miles to push them up to the next level of elite status in their airline's frequent flyer program.
Elite status comes with all kinds of perks: complimentary upgrades on flights, no fees for checked luggage, increased weight allowances for luggage (necessary for the ladies who travel with large shoe wardrobes), special lines for priority check-in, pre-boarding and so on. Once you've attained premier status with an airline, and have enjoyed the additional perks, you will do anything to keep that status. Which is why, at the end of the year, people will suddenly find a need to fly to some far flung destination - just to make sure they have enough miles to be Gold, Platinum or whatever!
Hong Kong is a perfect city for that long weekend trip. Far enough to bump you up to the level, and plenty to see and do to keep you entertained for a few days. You don't need a visa, just a valid U.S. passport, so that part is easy if you're planning last minute.
The airport is very modern and user friendly. It takes less than 30 minutes to get to the city center if there's no traffic. There are so many wonderful places to stay, and the debate goes on: should I stay on the Kowloon side or the Hong Kong Island side? I don't think you can go wrong with either, because there are things to do on both sides of Hong Kong and you will no doubt be spending some time in both places.
Our picks of top choices to stay while in Hong Kong:
Intercontinental Hong Kong
Located in Kowloon, you must reserve a harbor-view room, for the most fabulous views looking across the harbor to Hong Kong island. Every night at 8:00pm there is a light show which you can watch from your room or from the lovely lobby lounge with its floor to ceiling windows. We recommend booking Club lounge access, which allows you privileged access to the lounge with food and beverages offered throughout the day, in addition to concierges and business services.
The Upper House
This chic hotel opened in 2009 and has a definite hip vibe. We love the minimalist decor and the huge bathrooms with striking city or harbor views. The Sky Lounge is a lovely retreat on the 49th floor, and is adjacent to the Cafe Gray Bar, THE place to see and be seen.
Landmark Mandarin Oriental
This hotel is centrally located on Hong Kong island, conveniently adjacent to a large indoor shopping mall. The deluxe rooms and suites have huge 7-foot round soaking bathtubs which would comfortably fit a family of four. A highlight of the hotel is the state-of-the-art spa and a complete yoga and pilates studio.
The Peninsula
This is definitely the Grande dame hotel of Hong Kong, creating memories for guests since 1928. We recommend the harbor view rooms and suites, which have all undergone a complete renovation in 2012. The technology in all rooms is unsurpassed, with ipads provided to do everything from controlling the lights and drapes, to ordering room service or extra towels from housekeeping. An added bonus is that you can make free phone calls from your room to anywhere in the world!
Book your next stay with us at any of these Virtuoso hotels and you will receive complimentary amenities such as breakfast daily, food/beverage or spa credits and free upgrades.
Contact the Travel Advisors at Bee Kalt Travel to reserve today!
Email: travel@beekalt.com
Tel: 248-288-9600 or Toll-free 1-800-284-5258
http://www.beekalt.com/
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