What it is

A 565-room tower topping out at 56 floors, with eight beloved restaurants (one Michelin-starred) and spa with indoor and outdoor pools.

What it isn't

Hands off. No surprise, Shangri-La has whipped up a paradise of exemplary service, from the IT butler to the shoeshine (and, of course, 24-hour room service).

What we think

Shangri-La’s reputation as a real-life Shangri-La (earthly paradise) is well-founded. Even the “starter” room category here is luxe enough for a head of state, with its 24-hour butler service, marble-lined bathroom complete with an LCD television and soaking tub ideal for post-conference call steeps, and bountiful other thoughtful luxuries (note the pillow menu, bedside curtain and lighting controls, and twice-daily housekeeping). It’s worth upgrading to an Executive Suite for their corner panoramas over Victoria Peak, plus roomier digs (883 square feet). Don’t miss hitting the 24-hour gym or booking a spa treatment or two while you’re here; the treatments include an anti-pollution facial that seems to take a decade of wear and tear off your beautiful face.

You're here because

The hotel offers swimming lessons for adults and littles alike, and you’ve been meaning to perfect your backstroke.

The Moment

After sitting in the solarium for an hour, any lingering work stresses have all but dissipated. But after your organic salt and sugar scrub and algae detoxifying body wrap, you’re convinced they’ll never return. Heaven, indeed.

Restaurants & Bars

Restaurant Petrus - French Cuisine

Summer Palace - Cantonese Cuisine

Lobster Bar & Grill - Seafood and Grill

Nadaman - Japanese Cuisine

Waterside Terrace - Thai & snacks

Island Gourmet - Cake shop

Lobby Lounge - Afternoon tea

Location

Nestled within the tower above Pacific Place Shopping Complex, this is a shopaholic's dream hotel, with everything from YSL to LeSportsac right downstairs.