Interview: Christian Poda, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong

CC: Has anything changed at the Four Seasons in recent years - whether due to the pandemic or new concepts?

Poda: Yes, we completed a comprehensive renovation in 2022. A total of 397 guest rooms and suites as well as the lobby were redesigned. We have also opened two new concepts, the ARGO bar and the Gallery lobby café, which perfectly complement our culinary offering. Together with our renowned Michelin-starred gastronomy, they create an even more varied experience for our guests. The new rooms combine modernity with tradition. Under the direction of Remedios Studio, classic details have been combined with contemporary furniture. Traditional Chinese landscape paintings and patterns, inspired by local artists, give the rooms a special atmosphere. Thanks to state-of-the-art technology such as intelligent lighting control, they are also highly comfortable. For us, this renovation is an expression of a vision that has been pursued since we opened in 2005: preserving timeless traditions while shaping the future of tailor-made experiences. In 2025, we will be celebrating our 20th anniversary - an occasion on which we will offer our guests some very special highlights.

CC: Has the luxury hotel industry changed since the end of travel restrictions?

Poda: Definitely. We are seeing that our guests are now looking even more for interpersonal connections and a sense of belonging in the cities they visit. We are responding to this with tailor-made experiences. These include street food tours, art tours on Hollywood Road and feng shui and temple tours led by carefully selected experts. Today, luxury is no longer just about excellent service, but also about meaningful experiences that have a lasting impact.

CC: What changes do you see in Hong Kong itself?

Poda: The complete opening of the border in 2023 was a decisive moment. Since then, Hong Kong has been gradually returning as a global destination. The Hong Kong Tourism Board supports this with international events - from art fairs and financial summits to award ceremonies such as the World's 50 Best Bars Awards. Another milestone was the opening of the Kai Tak Stadium in 2025 with space for 50,000 spectators. At the same time, the infrastructure has improved enormously: the high-speed train station makes it possible to reach Shenzhen in just 15 minutes - perfect for a spontaneous short trip during your stay.

CC: What should guests definitely experience when they visit Hong Kong?

Poda: First of all, the Four Seasons Hotel itself is a culinary destination. With a total of eight Michelin stars, we are one of the top addresses in the world. I would particularly like to highlight Lung King Heen, which has been recognized for its Cantonese cuisine for 17 years, and Caprice, our French fine dining restaurant under the direction of chef Guillaume Galliot, which has three Michelin stars. But it's also worth discovering Hong Kong's culinary diversity outside the hotel - from wonton noodles to roasted goose and fresh seafood in an authentic street food atmosphere. In addition to gastronomy, Hong Kong offers a fascinating natural environment that is often underestimated. From the iconic Victoria Peak with its panoramic views over the city to the beaches of Lantau Island. Hikers can explore the famous Dragon's Back or experience the spectacular formations in the Hong Kong Global Geopark. Whether hiking, cycling or simply relaxing - nature is the perfect contrast to the urban dynamic.