Hotels

Celebrities Interview / Parting Thoughts

Discover Peng Chau Island

Indira Pun

Director of Concierge and Guest Experience, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

Hotel Industry Career : 17 years plus

About Me

I was born in Hong Kong and raised here and in Nepal. I was naturally inclined to work in the hotel industry. My mom ran a small boutique hotel in a tourist city in Nepal, and my brother and I both studied hotel management. After that study in Singapore, I returned to Hong Kong and soon joined the Mandarin Oriental, starting out at the front office before moving to the concierge desk; I have been happily here ever since.

Favourite Hong Kong activity :

I love being out and about in nature. I regularly practice meditation and yoga. Lately, at home, I’ve taken to make healthy dishes incorporating superfoods.

What I most like about Hong Kong :

It’s the diversity – food, culture, people and things to do and the convenience of doing so much, so easily: skyscrapers or old streets; beaches or country parks in 20 to 30 minutes, local street foods, and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Extend your stay to say 4 to 5 days and enjoy Hong Kong inside out. Spend a relaxing day outdoors, either hiking popular trails like the Dragon's Back, visiting the Tai Long Wan beaches in Sai Kung, or exploring outlying islands such as Lamma Island, Cheung Chau or Peng Chau.

I especially like Peng Chau Island. It's small and quiet but with lots to offer. You can check out the local art scene and graffiti (in a converted leather factory), roam through small vintage shops, and take a hike along the shoreline. And be sure to try the delicious shrimp toast at Kee Sum Café.

Bonus Recommendation :

Take a guided foodie tour and explore local food and local neighbourhoods such as Sheung Wan, Yau Ma Tei or Jordan. Be adventurous! You can even do it on your own, with the help of the CityLife hotel maps!

Extra Tip :

From our hotel, which is so centrally located, go for a walk or run along the harbourfront, which stretches from the Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wanchai to the popular Instagram Pier in Sai Ying Pun.

Last Advice:

Always approach the concierge desk for the latest updates on Covid-19 restrictions as well as for the best tips and directions.