A boutique heritage hotel in Hong Kong has won the annual HICAP award for Sustainable Destinations in recognition of its work combining restoration of a historic building and reviving the local community.
In 2008, the Ng Teng Fong Family set up a non-profit company to restore and convert Lantau Island’s Grade II listed Old Tai O Police Station into a 9-key boutique hotel. In 2013, the hotel was recognised by UNESCO, receiving a merit award for Cultural Heritage.
In addition to restoring the buildings to their original state, the hotel is helping rejuvenate the history of Tai O, a traditional fishing village. Efforts include interviewing local villagers and retired marine police officers who served at Tai O, collecting old photographs and using both in displays open to the public.
The hotel has become a catalyst for the local community to revive some of their own traditions. Initiatives include revitalising their century old wedding customs – involving a Marriage Parade through the main street – the reopening of the Chung Ying Theatre and visits to traditional stilted family homes.
In Brief
- The Sustainable Hotel Awards were launched at HICAP in 2007 to recognise hotels in the Asia Pacific region demonstrating exemplary sustainable best practices.
- The 26th annual HICAP will be held 14-16 October 2015 at the InterContinental Hong Kong.
