By Linda Phillips, Correspondent

About The Inter-Continental Hong Kong // A grand hotel on the Kowloon waterfront overlooking Victoria Harbor and Hong Kong Island, the building features glass walls with peerless views of the skyline and busy harbor. For both the business and pleasure traveler, the hotel effortlessly blends ancient cultural traditions, modern architecture and superior service, including airport limousine pick-up. Two vintage gold Rolls-Royces flank the entrance to the dazzling Hotel Inter-continental (formerly The Hong Kong Regent), welcoming the traveler to sublime elegance, service, and serenity.

Ambiance // The hotel has recently been redecorated with the assistance of local artists David Chan and Kathleen Xhio according to the ancient principles of Feng Shui, the perfectly balanced energetic placement of objects for ultimate contentment. Lobbies are carpeted, lush, and quiet: views from the rooms are spectacular and soothing.

Dining // Superb international restaurants. Plume, acclaimed as one of Asia's finest; Yu, a stylish seafood restaurant. Lai Ching Heen, with a fine Chinese restaurant. The Steak House, featuring Texas Sized-cuts of beef, and Harbourside, with a beautiful view and innovative menu. Two lounges, the Lobby, where American jazz is played in the atrium every evening, and Club Shanghai, a hot nightspot inspired by the party era of 1930's Shanghai.

Shopping // The promenade of shops feature goods from the world's finest vendors. Services: The jewel in the crown is the spa, offering every service including jet lag relief and special herbal teas for relaxation. The outdoor pool is adjoined by hot and cold tubs that seem to flow into the harbor. Butler service available. Complete conference facilities are available for business conventions.

What to See // The Hotel is next door to the Hong Kong Art Museum, and steps away from the Hong Kong Ferry and the Space Museum. A block away is the fabled Peninsula Hotel, where afternoon tea is a tradition, The nearby Regent shopping Arcade, bustling bazaars, boutiques and shops abound in Kownloon. A trip to the Stanley Market by motor can be arranged.

By Linda Phillips, Correspondent

Returning from a trip to Bali that was focused on outdoor activities, I found the Hotel Inter-Continental perfectly reflected the bustling and commercial city of 21st century Hong Kong. All services of this beautiful hotel were extended to me: a welcoming fruit basket, tea, monogrammed stationery, and a well-trained and helpful staff, always available to give personal attention.

It was a step into luxury quite unexpected at the end of a beach and rafting vacation. With every amenity, the hotel lacks only the intimate, personal interaction with the local population, and the deeper cultural experience that many vacation travelers seek. Its urbanity, conference capability, personality and location seem to make it a more appropriate destination for the business traveler.