Are staycation breaks welcome?

Strict hygiene protocols

With a portfolio of hospitality brands in Hong Kong, ranging from budget to five-star properties, Accor is all about guest experience — even if the concerned guests check in with a handbag as their only piece of luggage.

"We have rolled out diversified staycation packages, creative dining offers and flexible work solutions offering quality work spaces in a lifestyle environment," explains Gary Rosen, CEO with Accor Greater China.

"We reach our members and consumers with products centered on our loyalty program ALL — Accor Live Limitless — through key partnership alliances and activations such as Ctrip and Alibaba's Fliggy. And we have implemented strict measures on safety and hygiene through our ALLSAFE cleanliness and hygiene program across our entire portfolio of hotels, following regulations introduced by local authorities."

Novotel Citygate is a dedicated flight crew hotel, yet we spotted only one uniformed group at breakfast. Other than them, we had the entire restaurant to ourselves. Our package included buffet breakfast and dinner at all-day dining restaurant Essence, as well as access to the hotel's outdoor pool, gym and Premier Lounge. In comparison to our quiet morning, the dinner crowd was bustling, as the Essence's seafood selection attracts many Tung Chung residents.

The pool was a welcome break in between bouts of shopping at nearby Citygate Outlets. The sun disappears behind the building after lunch hour, so those working on their tans will get more out of mornings spent poolside. We liked the nearby trails for an early morning walk, and felt that the hotel was well positioned for a solid escape.

"Staycation guests obviously desire unique experiences, as they spend most of their time in the hotel," Rosen says. "Novotel Citygate attracts more local expatriates and friends seeking fun and relaxation. The hotel invites guests to rediscover Hong Kong, thanks to its unique location. Packages with local attractions such as Ngong Ping 360 cable car, Lantau hiking package and others have been popular among families, couples and friend groups."