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Nine Dragons and Feng Shui at InterContinental

Mandarin oranges for Lunar New Year at the InterContinental Hong KongSmiling chef at the InterContinental Hong KongGuests by the harbor windows at the InterContinental Hong KongBuffet and lounge seating at the InterContinental Hong KongJunk boat by the harborfront promenade at the InterContinental Hong KongGuests in the lounge at the InterContinental Hong KongExecutive office with a desk at the InterContinental Hong KongWine wall in the restaurant at the InterContinental Hong KongRestaurant entrance with warm lighting at the InterContinental Hong KongBanquet tables with harbor view at the InterContinental Hong KongDining room with harbor views at the InterContinental Hong KongSpa treatment with warm oil at the InterContinental Hong KongLobby lounge at dusk with harbor views at the InterContinental Hong KongLobby lounge with the skyline at night at the InterContinental Hong KongSpa pool facing the skyline at the InterContinental Hong Kong
 Feng shui, the study of geomancy, literally translates to "wind and water". According to traditional Chinese beliefs, this delicate balance of nature insures that the spirits are appeased.  If proper feng shui is not followed, the results can be disastrous.
Magnificently located on the Kowloon waterfront overlooking Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island, the InterContinental hotel parking lot , in front of a fountain  that symbolizes a pearl ,  symbol of wealth showcases three brand new Ferraris, one Testa Rossa, one Lamborghini and a few Rolls Royces

In 1980, prior to the completion of the construction of InterContinental  a feng shui master was called upon for consultation.  Now the award-winning hotel is renowned for its favourable "feng shui". First of all, the fountain at the entrance symbolizes a pearl. This pearl (a symbol of wealth) .  and entices the nine dragons to the hotel's entrance.

Hong Kong skyline across Victoria Harbour at the InterContinental Hong Kong

The  hotel formerly known as The Regent Hong Kong   is actually built up over the harbor on pile-ons boasts a strategic location, which provides a dramatic panoramic view of Hong Kong's harbor. Chinese legend states that the nine dragons of Kowloon come from the mountains each day to take their morning bath and drink from Victoria Harbor. ("Kowloon" actually means "nine dragons" in Chinese.)

The site selected for the hotel would have blocked the pathway of the nine dragons, thus creating a negative flow of “Chi” (energy). Therefore the hotel took the following precautions which have assured the property good feng shui and prosperity since its opening in 1980.

 At the entrance just before the lobby an array of pretty  tangerine miniature trees with red  paper envelopes encrypted in gold with good wishes for the New Year of the Dragon  . The super heavy glass doors are constantly opened by young doorman dressed in white uniforms and  pretty ha also  enticing and allowing  the dragons entrance with ease. ( Dragons, can also go through glass!)  The Dragons then proceed majestically through the Lobby to the expansive plate glass windows to take their morning bath in the harbor.
Dark wood lounge at the InterContinental Hong Kong

However, they must first stop off at the Reception Desk. InterContinental Hong Kong was one of the first hotels to have an island reception area. This is to allow the dragons to drop off some of their wealth before they proceed through the Lobby's expansive windows. This auspicious pathway for the “nine dragons” has ensured the hotel’s continued good “feng shui”.

Chocolates and jellies on a white plate at the InterContinental Hong Kong
 Good morning Miss! Welcome to the intercontinental Hotel in hong Kong and Happy New Year of the Dragon .  Miss Carole Klein ( one of the most powerful hotels PRS in Asia) is waiting for you ate the reception desk.
Two men by windows overlooking the skyline at the InterContinental Hong Kong

Whether you’re gazing over the skyline from the infinity spa pools, contemplating the horizon from the Club InterContinental Lounge or landmark-spotting from your suite, all of Hong Kong is literally at your feet.

But the views are not the only draw, the hotel is also renowned for its luxurious accommodation, impeccable service and world-class restaurants – which include the 1-Michelin star SPOON by Alain Ducasse and Yan Toh Heen, as well as NOBU InterContinental Hong Kong. The hotel also is home to Asia’s most spectacular Presidential Suite.

Bar with a red back wall at the InterContinental Hong Kong

I-Spa features luxurious private suites, clad in polished green granite from floor-to-ceiling, each with its own sauna, steam-shower, Jacuzzi and massage facilities. Specialty treatments are Oriental Healing and Jetlag Relief. With the most enlightened smile I recognize the charming Carole walking toward my direction.

I got a feeling I am going to have a good time  here at the InterContinental goes without saying in also perfect company as I know for a fact, I am in the right place at the right time to celebrate the beginning of the year of the Dragon as  9  of them  will  be watching over me closely  during my Hong Kong Edition stay.

Steakhouse dining room with red panels at the InterContinental Hong Kong

Joelle's Picks:

InterContinental Hong Kong, Hong Kong, S.A.R., China
 

 
 

Joelle Maslaton Oster

Joelle Maslaton Oster

Founder of Joelle Magazine and Studio Joelle, an interior design practice in New York. She writes on art, design and the places in between.

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