Regency Ballroom: the pillarless space can take about 30 round tables
Verdict A MICE venue with lots of verve for Hong Kong’s north.
Michael Hoare
The return of the Hyatt Regency brand to Hong Kong in relatively out-of-the-way Shatin may seem a tough sell at first but it should open new venue opportunities for adventurous MICE groups.
The first-time traveller to Hong Kong may be a little disappointed with what he finds: a slick, new hotel in a semi-rural location that lacks the city’s buzz. But frequent flyers will appreciate the short train ride from the border with mainland China.
International guests will happily note that the property resembles those found in the US or Europe. There is a tennis court, decent-sized outdoor pool, landscaped gardens and room for parking – features often lacking in Hong Kong.
As the property cranks up from its February soft-launch, a Melo branded spa will soon complement the fitness centre and sports facilities around the grounds.
Meeting facilities Events teams will appreciate the property’s 750m2 of meeting space, with its own dedicated entry and breakout spaces. The 430m2 pillarless Regency Ballroom will take about 30 round tables. Three smaller spaces, an entry foyer and secluded outdoor area for breakouts round out the offering on the ground floor. The 200-plus companies in nearby Science Park and Chinese University of Hong Kong are already taking advantage of the well-appointed meeting facilities.
F&B The f&b outlets are proving popular. With more than 600,000 residents, the area provides plenty of walk-in traffic, and the property’s café was packed solid during my stay. The signature Chinese restaurant, Sha Tin 18, offers a number of authentic dining options in a space with al fresco dining and four show kitchens.
Guestrooms The Harbour View King room I stayed in was roomier than most comparable rooms downtown. The light-wood finishes, modern accents and large windows create a comfortable space with lots of natural light.
Although tucked away in a corner of Hong Kong’s New Territories, Hyatt Regency Shatin is adjacent to the Tolo Highway leading to town and Hong Kong’s efficient rail line snakes past the property’s back door, with the University station a five-minute walk away.
This is not a big city hotel but an ideal – and better value – retreat from the concrete canyons of Central. Its proximity to the Shenzhen border and area’s businesses will ensure this becomes a popular hotel.
Fact file Minimum no. for meetings: 6 (boardroom-style in Meeting Room II on the 24th and 26th floors) Maximum no. for meetings: 600 (reception-style in Regency Ballroom)
Minimum no. for banquets: 24 in Salon II and III Maximum no. for banquets: 348 in Regency Ballroom
Events handled:
Numerous social events such as birthday dinners, anniversary parties, departmental meetings and gatherings mainly from government institutions and education sector
A number of corporate meetings and product launch from the retail industry
