Genting Group scion Loui Lim lists his favourite places in the former Crown colony – from new iconic buildings like The Henderson to the best place for a foot massage that only locals would know
Hong Kong will always hold a profound place in both my personal and professional journey. To live here is to be immersed in a city where East meets West and tradition intertwines with modernity. It’s a place of contrasts: neon-lit streets behind ancient temples and quiet rituals inside a fast-moving metropolis. It’s a balance between tradition and innovation.
This is also where I first experienced hospitality at its highest standard. In Hong Kong, luxury is defined not just by opulence, but by consistency, anticipation and discretion. The city is home to some of the world’s most respected hospitality brands – from Peninsula to Rosewood – and their influence has shaped my understanding of excellence.
At Genting, I wear multiple hats as director of Dream Cruises and vice president of leisure and hospitality for Genting Malaysia’s terrestrial resorts – and Hong Kong has been a constant source of inspiration. Its compact elegance, diverse guests and global outlook push me to design with intention.
Space matters here, not just how something looks, but how it feels. In Hong Kong, design isn’t just visual; it shapes how people move, feel and remember their experiences.
In hospitality, people want more than luxury; they want experiences rooted in place. Our Dream Cruises and StarCruises brands are proud to be homeported in Hong Kong. With over 40 restaurants and bars onboard, plus nightly performing arts, we aim to craft unforgettable vacations that celebrate Hong Kong’s past, present and future.
Living the city
A typical day when I am here begins with a workout at Grand Hyatt, business meetings around Ocean Centre and dim sum lunch at Hexa, which sits along the harbour overlooking the incredible Hong Kong skyline. For something low-key, Yat Lok has the best roasted goose.
If time permits, I’ll explore the city and browse independent retailers at PMQ. Evenings are for sensuous dinners at Grand Majestic Sichuan or cosy vibes at Blue Supreme, which specialises in American comfort food and craft beers. For a nightcap, it’s DarkSide or Salisterra; think jazz, cocktails and a city view.
Where to eat, work and unwind
When I work remotely, I look for places with garden terraces or airy spaces to help me feel grounded. Tai Kwun is one of my go-tos, whether it’s grabbing a coffee at Between or taking a meeting at Old Bailey. Duddell’s is another go-to for its exquisite food and hidden garden terrace. Louise at PMQ feels like a private residence, ideal for work and quiet catchups.
If you travel as much as I do, you learn how to balance the personal with the professional. For a quick reset in between meetings, a foot massage at Ten Feet Tall is a must; it’s one of those places only locals would know. For deeper relaxation, the Asaya wellness retreat at Rosewood is next level. Meanwhile, Dragon’s Back is my escape; it’s a ridge trail with ocean views and total serenity.
Hong Kong is also a shopping haven. Lane Crawford at IFC and Pacific Place offer a beautifully curated lifestyle experience. For tailored menswear, I go to The Armoury. For vintage, American Vintage Shop in Causeway Bay has an incredible selection and I love wandering Star Street in Wan Chai for its boutique finds.
How I host in Hong Kong
When I want to impress out-of- town guests, I take them to The China Club, a colonial-era gem with old Shanghai glam and incredible Cantonese cuisine. Owned by my good friends, it has hosted everyone from Kate Moss to Madonna. Dim sum by day, duck and Chinese opera by night; it’s not just a meal, it’s a Hong Kong story.
For architecture lovers, start at Central where colonial-era gems like St John’s Cathedral sit beside icons such as the HSBC Building by Norman Foster.
My favourite new icon is The Henderson by Zaha Hadid; it is bold, curved and futuristic. M+ always sparks ideas. Yayoi Kusama’s retrospective there – with its infinity rooms and installations – is a full-body, heart-stirring experience.
If I only have one weekend in Hong Kong, I’d do dim sum at City Hall, hop on the Star Ferry, cocktails at Hutong, and for something unexpected, a dai pai dong dinner under neon lights in Sham Shui Po.
