EVERY so often a hotel group introduces a new concept to attract new business and to keep their existing customer base loyal to their brand. Conrad Hotels & Resorts have launched their very innovative Stay Inspired 1/3/5 programme, which inspires guests with a selection of potential experiences to enjoy for the city they are visiting. The 1/3/5 refers to the number of recommended activities, either cultural, entertaining or gastronomic, based on the amount of time available. Each of Conrad’s 24 global properties will have trained staff to become “storytellers” of their specific destinations, thereby offering guests a customised, curated and authentic experience during their stay.
Relax by the pool at Conrad Hong Kong
At the helm of the Stay Inspired 1/3/5 initiative is the hugely charismatic and knowledgeable Nilou Motamed, Conrad’s first ever Director of Inspiration, who is responsible for developing and implementing the program, which fulfils a desire to blend work life and pleasure together for today’s more discerning traveller.
“Today’s luxury traveller wants to discover destinations where they can be truly inspired. So we are shifting not only how our concierges communicate and connect with our guests, but also all our team members,” said John T.A. Vanderslice, Global Head, Conrad Hotels & Resorts.
A room at Conrad Hong Kong
Guests are invited to download the Stay Inspired Conrad Concierge mobile app, which enables them to select their relevant destination and the timeframe available to explore the local vicinity, with options for 1/3/5 hours.
Take, for example, a businessman visiting London. He may have one hour between meetings in which to enjoy London around the vicinity of the Conrad, which is in Westminster. After selecting his one-hour time availability, the app will suggest a host of recreational activities that could be undertaken in a mere hour, while being a stone’s throw away from his hotel.
Conrad Hong Kong
An amazing three-hour experience on offer for guests staying at Conrad Hong Kong, where I was stayed during the launch of Stay Inspired, is a session with a Tai-Chi master, which takes place early morning on Victoria Peak. With stunning views to admire across Hong Kong, guests will be also be able to enjoy a sumptuous breakfast, after which they can take a leisurely tram ride down the Peak and soak up the atmosphere of the most upmarket residential area of Hong Kong.
Shopping in Hong Kong is famed – especially for its vast array of underground shopping centres. Pacific Place, one of the largest and well-known shopping malls, is located beneath the Conrad, giving guests direct access to a labyrinth of designer shops and boutiques where the discerning shopper can get mesmerised by all of their favourite designers under one colossal roof.
PMQ shopping centre Hong Kong
However a few miles away, for guests who click the three-hour option, is an out-of-the-ordinary shopping experience located in the heart of Hong Kong. The PMQ shopping centre was formally the residency for married junior police officers, but in 2010 it was redeveloped to become a hub for up-and-coming designers and creative professionals. The centre houses many retail units where designers showcase their collections, including the fashion designer Vivienne Tam, who grew up in Hong Kong. The PMQ centre is also the perfect destination for gift buying, especially for accessories, jewellery and fashion.
The two-Michelin-starred Duddell’s, part of the JIA group of award winning restaurants, is one of the highly recommended eateries suggested by the Stay Inspired app. Not only is the Cantonese food superb, but the restaurant’s walls are filled with curated art exhibits which frequently change.
Hong Kong skyline
The Conrad Hong Kong is ideally located to experience everything the city has to offer, as it’s only a few minutes’ walk from the MTR subway station. It is close to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and offers spectacular views overlooking both Victoria Harbour and Victoria Peak.
The hotel is luxuriously appointed with a distinctive contemporary feel and includes an executive lounge serving fresh food and snacks. The fully-equipped gym is open 24-hours, which is perfect for the jet-lagged traveller who wants to pass time while unable to sleep, and the inviting outdoor pool, surrounded by some of Hong Kong’s tallest buildings, will encourage you to take a night-time swim.
As Conrad put it so aptly – don’t just stay – Stay Inspired.
by Amanda Bernstein
Conrad Hong Kong, One Pacific Place, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong
+852 22521 3838