By Aude Camus
When it comes to ‘family-friendly’, it’s often a double-edge sword. As a parent, I’m always on the hunt for places that cater to both my child’s needs and preferences and my own desire for comfort and enjoyment. That’s why I was thrilled to be invited to discover Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong’ pioneering approach to family hospitality – an entire floor dedicated to sparking joy in both kids and adults alike.
When it comes to ‘family-friendly’, it’s often a double-edge sword. As a parent, I’m always on the hunt for places that cater to both my child’s needs and preferences and my own desire for comfort and enjoyment. That’s why I was thrilled to be invited to discover Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong’ pioneering approach to family hospitality – an entire floor dedicated to sparking joy in both kids and adults alike.
The enchantment begins the moment you step off the elevator onto the 45th floor. Welcomed by the whimsical ambiance of the vintage train station-like lift lobby, complete by a charming model train chugging along the space, you know you’re in for something special.
To your left is The Hangout, a vibrant communal space boasting sweeping views of The Peak and tasteful pastel décor accented with botanical touches. Here, families can refuel with an array of snacks and refreshments available throughout the day at the grab and go station. There are healthy options such as vegetable sticks and fruits as well as more-indulgent, but always homemade choices, including plant-based gummies and pasta lunch boxes. It’s a great concept because we parents know that kids are sometimes (often?) on a different eating schedule. And let’s not forget the breakfast and afternoon tea specials, as well as the delightful ice cream that rolls out at 4 pm. While the kids immerse themselves in creative games and toy-filled fun at the adjacent workshop room, you can unwind in the cozy drawing room, reminiscent of an elegant apartment’s living room with its fireplace and eclectic décor, with a cup of tea, a good book or a board game.
To your left is The Hangout, a vibrant communal space boasting sweeping views of The Peak and tasteful pastel décor accented with botanical touches. Here, families can refuel with an array of snacks and refreshments available throughout the day at the grab and go station. There are healthy options such as vegetable sticks and fruits as well as more-indulgent, but always homemade choices, including plant-based gummies and pasta lunch boxes. It’s a great concept because we parents know that kids are sometimes (often?) on a different eating schedule. And let’s not forget the breakfast and afternoon tea specials, as well as the delightful ice cream that rolls out at 4 pm. While the kids immerse themselves in creative games and toy-filled fun at the adjacent workshop room, you can unwind in the cozy drawing room, reminiscent of an elegant apartment’s living room with its fireplace and eclectic décor, with a cup of tea, a good book or a board game.
The Pantry, a concept I’ve never seen before in a hotel, provides all the conveniences of home that parents often miss when traveling with kids. With a washing machine, tumble dryer, and a range of appliances from strollers to bottle warmers, it's a lifesaver for busy families on the go.
I hear you. Facilities are great but what about the rooms and suites? There are 21 in total, for a total of 10 themes – celebrating Hong Kong’s culture and landscapes (or inviting little ones to explore the world), to explore.
I hear you. Facilities are great but what about the rooms and suites? There are 21 in total, for a total of 10 themes – celebrating Hong Kong’s culture and landscapes (or inviting little ones to explore the world), to explore.
From the single-room Fisherman’s Cove, with its traditional junk-inspired bed, and Garden Lodge, giving log cabin vibes, to one-bedroom suites such as the Hong Kong Wonders and Safari Adventure ones, every detail is thoughtfully designed to delight both kids and adults.
I had the pleasure (pleasure equally shared by my three-year-old daughter) of staying in the Campervan Haven, one of the two-bedroom family suites, where a campervan-like bed fitted with a slide, interactive light and sound features and UV torch-revealed animals kept my little one endlessly entertained. To sum it up, my baby girl was so obsessed with her room that she cries when I told her it was time for dinner because she needed ‘more time to play in her room’.
And the fun doesn’t stop on 45th floor. The 8th-floor swimming pool beckons with plush sunbeds, and cabanas, for adults and the WATERPLAY area for kids, featuring water tunnels, jets, and a toddler paddling pool – the perfect spot for some family fun in the sun.
Well-deserved a mention as well is the Family Experience Team, whose desk is located inside The Hangout’s drawing room. From checking prior to our stay what were my daughter’s preferences (in terms of animated movies, sweet treats, and more) and warmly welcoming us to acting as friendly figures throughout the entire stay, making sure everything was perfect, Joyce, Ella and the rest of team have the special talent to know how to talk to both the kids and their parents.
100% recommend the experience if you’re looking for enchantment, convenience, and peace of mind for the whole family. Or, in my three-year-old’s words: ‘we should have booked more than just one night’.
Well-deserved a mention as well is the Family Experience Team, whose desk is located inside The Hangout’s drawing room. From checking prior to our stay what were my daughter’s preferences (in terms of animated movies, sweet treats, and more) and warmly welcoming us to acting as friendly figures throughout the entire stay, making sure everything was perfect, Joyce, Ella and the rest of team have the special talent to know how to talk to both the kids and their parents.
100% recommend the experience if you’re looking for enchantment, convenience, and peace of mind for the whole family. Or, in my three-year-old’s words: ‘we should have booked more than just one night’.
This article is based on a complimentary one-night stay hosted by Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong. Not money has been paid to post this write-up which is entirely based on the genuine opinion of its author.