Operators add helpful touches
Increased competition has prompted upgrades, improved services and value added extras, writes John Cremer
With the choice of serviced apartments in Hong Kong steadily on the rise, established operators are responding to the competition with upgrades, enhanced services and a variety of value-added extras.
The prime aim is to give residents a sense of home, a space where they and their families have access to all the comforts and convenience of modern city living. But beyond that, there is more - a desire to anticipate changing needs and add the thoughtful touches that can transform a stay of any length from good to something special.
"As part of our total package, we provide a lot of extras on a complimentary basis," says Rene Holenweger, general manager of Gateway Apartments in Tsim Sha Tsui. "It is important to listen to residents, understand what they want and be ready to meet ever higher expectations."
Those extras include purpose-built children's furniture with special bedding and baby amenities, a pillow menu, and a choice of Asian or European dining sets. In addition, a major renovation programme is set to upgrade apartment interiors, with studio and one-bedroom units getting a comprehensive makeover to improve use of space and overall functionality.
Studios, for example, are to have a sliding door to create a separate bedroom when required. The option of a "1+1" layout will allow for a study or child's room in a one-bedroom apartment. And responding to feedback, all newly refurbished areas will feature high-quality wooden flooring.
"Our residents also enjoy access to the exclusive Pacific Club, which has just undergone extensive renovation and offers the finest recreation and dining facilities," Holenweger says.
New attractions include a children's playroom and an Italian restaurant. The indoor swimming pool, tennis courts, spas, sauna and state-of-the-art gymnasium - along with the bar, grill room and Chinese restaurant - are already well established favourites.