Hyatt Sha Tin: Bring the Family Along to Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of my favorite cities in the world and still a favorite for us now traveling as a family. Some may not immediately see the appeal of this destination as a family getaway, but traveling there before having a child created a yearning to return again and again and again.

Bringing Lucy to Hong Kong

We were excited to share this city with our daughter and thought of the many things she would enjoy on her visits; walking Victoria Harbour, taking the Star Ferry to Hong Kong island, visiting Lantau by cable car, eating noodles, and the excitement of the bustling markets. There are still so many sights in this city that we have yet to share with her and wonder if maybe her first Disney experience might be in Hong Kong instead of Orlando.

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As we continue to visit time and again this wonder filled city, we find our selves selecting a familiar accommodation; the Hyatt Regency Sha Tin. This stunning resort-esque property located in the New Territories is the perfect oasis outside of the city with excellent accessibility. It is easy enough to have you in the thick of it all in a 20 minute journey. When you walk into the lobby, you’re invited in by an elegant, spacious feel and welcoming staff to greet you. As a Diamond member you are escorted upstairs to the lounge for check in with a great view of the harbour and a welcome drink.

Family Rooms

One of the many highlights of this property are their Family Rooms. These are ideal for family stays or with a small group of people. Walking into the room you will notice the huge, panoramic bay windows boasting beautiful views of the serene Tolo harbor (not Victoria Harbor) or the tropical “Mountain View”.

There are two bedrooms that are separated by a living space, perfect for staying up late watching movies, playing cards, or just hanging out. This area is also equipped with a half bathroom and a kitchen that has a full size fridge, stove, microwave, dinner ware and more. The living area has a dining table with four chairs and a large couch with chaise lounge, and a top-of-the-line TV. There is more than enough room to really unwind here. The bedrooms also have the same big bay windows, beautifully finished bathrooms, plenty of closet space and comfortable beds.

On one recent stay my brother-in-law was going to be in the city overlapping one night with our trip and we knew we would have plenty of room for him to stay in the spare bedroom just on the other side of the living room. It was great to be able to maximize the short time we had together and yet still have enough space and privacy for everyone. The rooms at this property are finished to a high quality and the feel of staying on resort without the resort fees.

Dining

If the rooms themselves weren’t enough to seal the deal for us on this property, the impressive dining options did. With plenty of options to please adults and kids alike you will find the Cafe which holds a massive buffet (and a la carte options), a spot for authentic Chinese cuisine at the Sha Tin 18 restaurant, the pool bar, room service and even their in-house patisserie featuring their famous Honey Cake. There are seemingly endless opportunities to try something new each night.

Honey Cake is the hotel's specialty — Honey Cake is the hotel’s specialty

The Cafe is quite impressive and catches your attention when walking from the Lobby to the rooms. Its packed for breakfast, lunch and dinner where smart people are busy filling their plates from the buffet. You can have an authentic Chinese culinary experience with dumplings and perfectly cooked fish, or if you would rather make your own Belgian waffles or try their wood-fired pizza. Dine by night and indulge in hand rolled sushi, dim sum and fresh crab legs.

While I haven’t tried the Sha Tin 18 restaurant personally, the menu looks quite impressive.

Pool

The hotel features a stunning Olympic size pool on property surrounded by plenty of lounge seating, a jacuzzi and a play area for children. Before you dip your toes in the water you will first visit the spa and pool changing rooms chock full of impressive amenities that will prepare you for whatever needs you may have before swimming and after.

This is a spot in the hotel that has quickly become our favorite (our daughter’s too.) The changing room is five star quality and you should reserve some time there for personal relaxation. It has the effect of a spa retreat with the whole family and though you never have to actually visit the spa, it’s never a bad idea to check that out too. We really enjoyed night swims as a family and dip in the jacuzzi after spending a day amongst the rush of the city.

Location

I saved what I think to be is one of the best things for last, the location. As mentioned previously, this property is located in the New Territories and while some have said, “Why would you stay so far outside of the city?” it really isn’t very far at all.

Once we land at the airport we know we have about a 30-45 minute journey by taxi to the hotel (not a material difference from heading into Central or Kowloon when coming from the airport). When we want to go into the city we are closely connected by the MRT (There is a station less than 100 meters from the hotel entrance) and just a short 20-30 minute ride away from Kowloon. The connect-ability is key. We are able to be close enough to everything when we want to, but able to leave the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong behind as we head back to our home away from home. For us, location is one of the greatest aspects of the property. One side of the hotel offers the seclusion of the mountain terrain, on the other, fog rolls in over the harbour every morning before revealing the waiting hills and lush tropical landscape. There are no neon lights to keep you up at night, no car horns or touts. However, when you want that true HK experience, it’s just a short ride away.

When I reflect on my stays at the Hyatt Sha Tin words like relaxation, luxury, and space all come into mind. I love trying new hotels but I have a strong appreciation once I find that property that makes choosing where to stay easy. We will definitely be back.

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