Face-Lift for a Grande Dame

The celebrated Peninsula Hotel in Hong Kong, perennially at or near the top of everyone’s “best” lists, has undergone a face-lift and added a sleek new wing that it formally inaugurates Thursday.

The $180-million, 30-story addition--designed by Hong Kong architect Rocco Yim--is chock-full of the latest in high-tech gear, such as audio and video equipment, silent facsimile machines, two-line telephones and computer jacks, but hotel spokesmen hasten to assure that the familiar main lobby, front facade and forecourt have all been retained. Afternoon tea, a must for many visitors, is still served in the lobby. However, those in the market for something new may want to venture to the top of the 132-room tower where noted restaurant designer Philippe Starck has created Felix, Hong Kong’s sky-high hot spot. The grande dame of Hong Kong hotels first opened its doors in 1928, and since then has projected a nostalgic, elegant, colonial style. All manner of royalty and presidents, business moguls and film stars have slept there. You can too; doubles start at $335.