Latest news with #AquaLuna


What's On
4 days ago
- What's On
Hong Kong highlights: A first-timer's travel guide
The first-ever Shangri-La property in Hong Kong, this property first opened its doors in June 1981. Located inthe famous shopping and entertainment district of Tsim Sha Sui East, it overlooks Victoria Harbour, offering a stunning view of the Hong Kong Island skyline. A 35-minute drive from Hong Kong International Airport, it's also played host to countless celebrities and VIPs over the years, and several famous Hong Kong films have been shot here too. Its grandeur is evident from the moment you step into the lobby, which, with marble-clad walls, intricate chandeliers, and opulent décor in rich, jewel-toned hues, was designed to mimic the feeling of being inside a Chinese palace. A large and impressive mural by renowned British artist Malcolm Golding, titled 'Shangri-LaValley', adds to the effect. One fun effect for travellers so busy enjoying their holiday they've lost track of time, is that the carpets in the elevators state what day of the week it is, changed at midnight each night. Rooms The hotel has 688 guestrooms and suites, all of which are decked out in neutral, stately furnishings for classicluxury. Muslim guests will be pleased to find a Qibla directional sign, a copy of the Quran, prayer mats, andbidets in the room should they need them- and separate male and female areas with special prayer facilities can be arranged for group usage. Facilities There are seven bars and lounges offering a wide range of cuisines, including Cantonese, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, and international cuisine (plus an excellent patisserie). A dinner at Shang Palace, the hotel's signature Chinese restaurant serving Cantonese classics with a twist, is among the must-try culinary experiences. The hotel also has a luxurious spa, with therapeutic, natural, and aromatherapy-supported treatments available. At the 24-hour Health Club, you'll find state-of-the-art fitness equipment, as well as an indoor pool and a heated whirlpool bath. Verdict: Frequently recognised as one of the top hotels in the world, this historical hotel has set benchmarks for Shangri- La on a regional as well as global scale. Staying here offers a slice of history, and easy access to the city's shopping and entertainment hubs. Room rates start from Dhs1,212. @kowloonshangrila Things to do The Peak Victoria Peak, known simply as The Peak, is a must-visit when in Hong Kong. Offering arguably the best skyline views of the city, it houses two shopping malls, the Peak Tower – where you'll also find the best viewing platform, Sky Terrace 428, and a Madame Tussauds museum. There's plenty to tick off while you're there, including the scenic 3.5km Circle Walk, verdant Victoria Peak Garden, and The Peak Tram – Asia's first funicular railway, which began operation in 1888. Tickets from Dhs18. Aqua Luna boat tour Set sail for stunning city vistas with a scenic harbour cruise. There's plenty of options to choose from, but for a taste of the traditional, book with Aqua Luna and you'll take to the river on Hong Kong's iconic red-sail Chinese junk boats. The best option to book to see the twinkling buildings in all their glory is the evening cruise, with a complimentary mocktail included with each ticket. Tickets from Dhs127. Soho House If you know someone who knows someone – or if you're already a member of Soho House – then a day at the exclusive members club is not to be missed. Housed in a 30-storey skyscraper in the Sheung Wan neighbourhood, there's lots to keep you busy – with a three-floor gym, screening room, a museum-level art collection and an indoor pool. Come hungry – there's also an outpost of Italian restaurant Cecconi's, and the main restaurant, where dim sum and traditional Chinese food is served. Where to eat Budget: Temple Street Night Market Come for the food, stay for the electric atmosphere at Temple Street Night Market. Located in the buzzing Jordan district, you can sample everything from clay pot rice and fish ball noodles, to sizzling skewers. Mid-range: Maxim's Place One of the most famous dim sum halls in Hong Kong, this elaborately adorned restaurant in Hong Kong's City Hall is an institution. Prepare to queue for this old school dim sum feast, but be rewarded with some of the finest dim sum in the city. Blowout: Sushi Shikon An exemplary sushi restaurant tucked inside the Mandarin Oriental, this head-spinningly innovative 3 Michelin Star restaurant offers a cultural – as well as gastronomic – immersion. Perch up at the hinoki counter and watch the skilled masters at work. Omakase menus start from Dhs1,053. Words: Anthony Milne, Images: Supplied & Unsplash With thanks to Shangri-La, Cathay Pacific and Hong Kong Tourism


GMA Network
28-06-2025
- Entertainment
- GMA Network
'I Juander' unveils the charms of Hong Kong in anniversary special
Susan and Empoy got a taste of old-world culinary charm, the 100-year-old Lin Heung Lau Restaurant. I JUANDER Hong Kong beckons, and for many Filipinos, it's a favorite getaway. But beyond the shopping and city lights, what truly draws Pinoys to this vibrant metropolis? For its anniversary special this Sunday (June 29), I Juander is set to explore the reasons why Filipinos keep coming back to this favorite getaway. Join I Juander hosts Susan Enriquez and Empoy Marquez as they explore more of Hong Kong. Dubbed as the "Back Garden of Hong Kong," the Sai Kung District offers a stunning paradise of islands and pristine beaches. But the real showstopper here is the rock formations that dot the islands. Susan and Empoy embark on an island tour to catch these natural marvels that are a must-see for any nature enthusiast. In Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant, guests are welcomed by a "dampa-style" experience. Here you can pick your fresh catch and have it cooked to perfection. For those who love their meals with a side of entertainment, Tung Po Kitchen in Wan Chai is the place to be. Owner Robby isn't just serving up delicious Cantonese-style food; he also entertains via spontaneous break dance routines, adding a vibrant, party atmosphere for his customers. Susan and Empoy's adventure continues aboard the Aqua Luna. This traditional Chinese red-sail junk boat, once used for fishing and trade, offers a glimpse into Hong Kong's maritime history. And for a taste of old-world culinary charm, the 100-year-old Lin Heung Lau Restaurant is a must-visit. No travel adventure is complete without those perfect souvenir photos. Ace, a Tsinoy photographer and architect, guides tourists to Hong Kong's most Instagram-worthy spots. The Philippines' national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, also spent a year living in Hong Kong. To commemorate his time there, Filipinos in Hong Kong, including photojournalist Enrique Rueda Sadiosa, annually offer flowers at Rednaxela Terrace. This touching tribute highlights the historical ties between our nations and the enduring legacy of a hero. Discover why Hong Kong is a perennial favorite for Pinoys. Join Susan and Empoy in the anniversary special of I Juander this Sunday, 8 PM on GTV! For more news and updates, visit


CairoScene
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Hadia Ghaleb Drops SS25 Collection Where Modesty Meets Galactic Glam
Hadia Ghaleb Drops SS25 Collection Where Modesty Meets Galactic Glam 'It's not for one type of woman,' Ghaleb says. 'It's for every woman who wants modesty without muting herself.' Modestwear doesn't usually come with branded buses, celestial swim sets, or a digital fandom that refers to its founder as 'the internet princess' - but Hadia Ghaleb has never really followed the brief. Since launching her namesake label in 2022, Ghaleb has made a business out of breaking the rules politely. Her version of modesty is high-gloss, high-coverage, and allergic to beige minimalism. For Spring/Summer 2025, she's dialling it all the way up with what she calls a 'full wardrobe experience' - a tight edit of kaftans, swimwear, dresses, and accessories designed for the woman who wants more fabric and less explanation. And while everyone else is still trapped in the trend cycle of neutrals and quiet luxury, Ghaleb's out here dropping names like Bonbons, Star, and Zap Pop. Because modesty, apparently, doesn't mean quiet. The swimwear is modular - four-piece sets made to layer, mix, and actually swim in. Think sleek zip-tops, high-waist leggings, matching skirts and scarves in high-saturation tones. Galactica comes in silver with just the right level of drama. Onda Blu leans into deep sea blue with light-catching embroidery. Aqua Luna brings moonlit shimmer without the sparkle headache. Fiamma de HG is for the woman who treats a beach entrance like a runway call time. And Zap Pop? It's citrus. It's chaos. It's for when subtlety feels like a scam. The dresses, meanwhile, are less 'main character' and more 'I booked the table and wore something that makes you wish you had.' Bonbons and Candy are soft and sherbet-toned, ideal for brunches where you pretend not to notice you're being watched. Emerald and Green Mystic shift the mood - greens, ombré fades, silhouettes that say 'I don't do viral moments, I do presence.' It's not revolutionary, and that's the point. Hadia Ghaleb isn't trying to save fashion or 'challenge perceptions' with this collection. She's giving women - modest, maximalist, or somewhere in between - a wardrobe that looks like their calendar: destination weddings, soft-launch dinners, content trips, rooftop iftars, late-night swims. 'It's not for one type of woman,' she says. 'It's for every woman who wants modesty without muting herself.' And maybe that's why it works. SS25 doesn't exist in a vacuum - it exists on location. Under the sun, in the DMs, through the camera roll. It's less about runway approval and more about looking good in three time zones and two lighting setups.