Hyatt Gold Passport - Grand Hyatt Macau REVIEW - MASTER THREAD

Rooms are available for booking from Nov 1, 2009 onwards.

The hotel website is really confusing at the moment. On the "Room & Rates" page, there are Grand Deluxe and Club rooms, as well as suites for reservation. But if you actually key in the dates, only suites are available. I rang the booking agent in Macau and she said GH Macau is still in the process of "fine-tuning" the dimension of the rooms. The website will update soon.

Pricing is also very confusing. It fluctuates daily! I managed to book a Grand Suite King on Hyatt Daily rate at 1,288HKD + 15% tax last Sunday. When I check today, however, the same room on Advanced Purchase rate costs 1,388 HKD + 15% tax.

I will be staying at GH Macau during 15-17 November. I will post my review and photos during my stay.

I don't know. Something tells me that GH Macau is not ready for opening yet :rolleyes:...

I'm going to stay there in December hopefully. The price for the Grand Suit king is good in my opinion, a lot lower than in other Chinese/ HK GH.

I tried looking for award stays here and got an error message. The property is also not listed on any of the category 1-5 lists.

FYI: Currently the room description on the GH Macau webpage do not correspond with those you will find on the reservation page after specifing a date.

A friend previously booked a Grand Deluxe Room and now needed another room. After date setting etc., he went for the Grand Suite King as the Gd Dlx Room had disappeared. On receiving the confirmation email it turned out that the room description is exactly the same as the one for the Gd Dlx Room description on the main webpage! The description for the Gd Suite King differs from that.

So, after double checking with the reservation agent of the GH Macau, he was adivsed, that the Gd Dlx had been re-name to Gd Suite King. The main webpage has some technical difficulties and thus does not yet reflect the updated room categories.

So, mind you when booking to check your reservation email to check what the room description says if you intend to go for a specific room type/suite. As it seems - and according to the reservation agent - the current Gd Dlx Rooms will be marketed as Gd Suite King, which in turn will be re-named/re-categorised, too. At the moment you get the Gd Suite which matches the Gd Dlx Room description. Hope my explanation makes sense.

In any case, the agent said that in the next couple of days the webpage glitches should be fixed and all should be displayed the correct and updated way.

Cheers.

So, after double checking with the reservation agent of the GH Macau, he was adivsed, that the Gd Dlx had been re-name to Gd Suite King. The main webpage has some technical difficulties and thus does not yet reflect the updated room categories.

So, mind you when booking to check your reservation email to check what the room description says if you intend to go for a specific room type/suite. As it seems - and according to the reservation agent - the current Gd Dlx Rooms will be marketed as Gd Suite King, which in turn will be re-named/re-categorised, too. At the moment you get the Gd Suite which matches the Gd Dlx Room description. Hope my explanation makes sense.

Yes, it makes sense to me, but this is probably because I have been through the confusing booking process. :D

In any case, I think I got a bargain by registering 3 adults in the Grand Suite King for 1288HKD.

I wonder if we can use Diamond suite upgrades to upgrade the suites... :p

Yes, it makes sense to me, but this is probably because I have been through the confusing booking process. :D

In any case, I think I got a bargain by registering 3 adults in the Grand Suite King for 1288HKD.

I wonder if we can use Diamond suite upgrades to upgrade the suites... :p

This hotel now has an "Opening Offer." It's 1,088HKD for a Grand Suite King per night and you can cancel 24 hours prior to arrival. Their lowest rate before this was an advanced purchase rate at 1,3XXHKD. I guess bookings haven't been that good...
Anyway, guess who's going to stay there in a month... :D

I just spent my weekend at GH Macau. I am really surprised that nobody has written a review to this fantastic property yet, so here is mine.

Here is a little background information:

Grand Hyatt Macau opened on 1st November, 2009. The hotel is situated inside City of Dreams, an urban resort/entertainment/dining/shopping/casino complex that also includes two other hotels: Crown Towers (6 stars) and Hard Rock hotel (5 stars). It features 791 rooms & suites with spectacular views over Cotai and the west banks of Pearl River.

GH Macau comprises two towers: Grand Tower (where I stayed) and Grand Club Tower (was not open when I was there, but I believe it just opened yesterday 17th November). There are 424 rooms and suites in the Grand Tower and 367 rooms and suites -- dedicated to premium travellers -- in the Grand Club Tower.

From the information I gathered, originally the Grand Tower and the Grand Club Tower were supposed to be managed under the Hyatt Regency and Grand Hyatt names, respectively. However, the management dropped this idea during development and merged both towers into a single Grand Hyatt hotel. For this reason, both towers share the same reception desk and Grand Club facility at the Lobby of the Grand Tower.

The Grand Club was not open when I was there but I was granted a visit. It was huge!! It's the size of a full restaurant -- probably 3 times the size of a normal lounge. I suppose this is understandable as all guests staying at the Grand Club Tower will be given access to the GC.

GH Macau has extremely large MICE facilities -- probably the second largest in Macau. Unlike most hotels in Macau which target gamblers, GH Macau largely targets the IT and pharmaceutical industries, as well as big corporate houses and private Chinese enterprises. The aim is to have GH Macau acting as a facilitator, complementing Crown Towers and Hard Rock hotel in areas that they are not strong in.

When they first opened, the hotel was doing an opening offer package starting from 1,088 MOP for a Grand Suite King including complimentary breakfast. Now the hotel is doing the City of Dreams package starting from 1,588 MOP for a Grand Suite King including complimentary breakfast (please quote "COD001").

The hotel also likes to advertise that their packages include "complimentary Wi-Fi internet access and priority access for two to the Dragon’s Treasure Show at the Bubble". However, I would like to remind people that these items are actually free in any case. :rolleyes:

Here are some pictures (http://www.flickr.com/photos/8582163@N04/sets/72157622702029075/) I took of GH Macau. :)

I redeemed two nights at GH Macau using the Next Big Thing awards. I was able to register the room for 3 guests through NBT (yay!).

I arrived in Macau from Hong Kong through Cotai Jet (http://cotaijet.com.mo/en/home.aspx). There are free shuttle services at the pier that takes you to City of Dreams -- stopping at Hard Rock hotel, then at GH Macau, and finally at Crown. The shuttle bus was packed with passengers, but everyone except us got off the bus at Hard Rock.

Check-in procedure

The reception is on your right hand side when you enter the lobby. I felt a bit lost when I first got to the hotel, but no one offered to point me to the right direction. I had to ask~! :rolleyes:

Staff at the reception desk was cold -- the usual Grand Hyatt style. There were no Platinum/Diamond check-in lanes; everyone checked in at the same place. Check-in procedure was not fast but not slow -- it took around 10 minutes. The staff at the reception desk realised I was a Diamond so she called to get a manager to assist me to my room. The manager was friendly. He took us to our room and introduced the hotel to us.

Room

My suite was on the 29th floor. GH Macau kindly gave me a suite on the side of the building so I got two different window views. The suite was big -- 64 sqm -- and really nice! You can see a photo of the suite here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/8582163@N04/4113664276/).

The bed was extremely comfortable. The bathroom was huge, with shower and bath tub bundled together, and a separate toilet. There was a blood stain (http://www.flickr.com/photos/8582163@N04/4113691536/) on the toilet floor.

There were two LG flat-screen TVs in the room: one in the sitting room and one in the bedroom. The tea-making facilities includ a Nespresso machine, 6 Nespresso capsules, two cans of Chinese loose tea leaves (Iron buddha and Pu-erh tea), and a dozen of T2 revolution teabags (Jasmine, Earl Grey, Peppermint and English breakfast). I love their teabags -- especially Jasmine.

Diamond amenity was a fruit bowl.

Guest services

I rang guest services to organise 4 Dragon's treasure show tickets for me. They did this very promptly ^ and organised the tickets for pick-up at the Bubble entrance. I also told them that I have made a request for a rollaway bed. They brought the bed up while I went downstairs to pick up my friend. Unfortunately, they placed the bed in the bedroom and I wanted the bed to be in the sitting room. I had to ring 4 times and it took them 3 hours to get someone to fix the bed :td:.

Dining

The Grand Club was not open when I was there. We were offered complimentary breakfast at Beijing Kitchen. The restaurant was extremely packed in the morning as all guests have breakfast here. I didn't have much expectation for the Beijing Kitchen at first, but I came out really impressed by their cooking :eek:. I tasted the best Har Gau and Siu Mai ever here.

The Har Gau was small, bite-size, and used tiny shrimps instead of large, tasteless, unusually crunchy, farmed prawns that you commonly get in Yum Cha these days. Siu Mai was even more impressive! They didn't blend the meat using a blender, which is what most restaurants these days do. Instead, they chopped the meat into tiny pieces so that you can still taste the texture in the Siu Mai. They also included some soft bones/cartilages inside the Siu Mai so that it has this crunchy texture that I don't find in other restaurants. Very impressive! Their baguette was great! Congee was not bad. Everything else was okay too, but I am happy just eating Har Gau and Siu Mai.

I also tried cakes at the Lobby Lounge. They were very disappointing. I ordered green tea, mango, and lemon opera stick cake. They looked really good on the eyes, but tasted bland on the tongue. I couldn't taste any green tea, nor mango, nor lemon in any of the cakes.

I checked the room services menu. I didn't order anything but the price was very reasonable. As a matter of fact, I recommend you eating at the hotel than at City of Dreams' food colosseum, which I thought was a real rip-off. Otherwise, the Golden Pavilion inside the casino can be an altenative cheaper option as they sometimes do special deals. When I was there, they were selling Wonton & Cha Siu noodles for 11 MOP + 10% service fee (1.5 USD) starting at 11pm :p. More information here (http://www.cityofdreamsmacau.com/en/dining/18/casual_dining.html).

Conclusion

Despite some glitches, I think Grand Hyatt Macau is a magnificient product with extremely good value. I talked to some key people and they said that City of Dreams, who owns GH Macau, was aiming at generating revenue through gaming, not through accommodation. Actually, this is the reason why there are Queen rooms in the Grand Tower but are not open for booking because these rooms are reserved for gamers who have bet big money.

The hotel still need some time and effort, but I think there is a huge probability that GH Macau will become the best Grand Hyatt in Asia.

kuponuts, thank you for those great pictures and wonderful report.

Blankets

Oh, I almost forgot!!! I asked housekeeping for an extra blanket. They asked for 300MOP for the extra blanket!!! Anyone else thinks this is insane?!! :confused:

I've never heard of getting charged for extra blankets/ towels in any Hyatt hotels at least.

Could it be possible that the person misunderstood and thought you wanted to buy one?

I've never heard of getting charged for extra blankets/ towels in any Hyatt hotels at least.

Could it be possible that the person misunderstood and thought you wanted to buy one?

Hi Crystak,

Yes, I am sure because I asked two different people at guest services 3 times.

Hi kuponuts, sounds as if this could be very nice, can you give me a time frame, in your estimations of the GH HKG to the GH Macau. How much time is einvolved? Say I grabbed a cab to the ferry, then over to Macau and the shuttle up to the hotel, is it a morning?, and finally were you given any idea when the club will open. Thanks for the report, given us all many ideas, regards vbkkrop

Hi kuponuts, sounds as if this could be very nice, can you give me a time frame, in your estimations of the GH HKG to the GH Macau. How much time is einvolved? Say I grabbed a cab to the ferry, then over to Macau and the shuttle up to the hotel, is it a morning?, and finally were you given any idea when the club will open. Thanks for the report, given us all many ideas, regards vbkkrop

Hi BKKROP,

GH HKG to GH Macau would take around 1.5-2 hours. There are several different ferry services from HK to Macau, but the best one to take in this case is Cotaijet (http://cotaijet.com.mo). To board the ferry, you need to take either MTR or taxi to Shun Tak Centre (Sheung Wan MTR station).The Cotaijet ticket booth is well hidden, so you might need to ask people once you get there.

Address: Shop 305n, Shun Tak Centre, 200 Connaught Road, Sheung Wan, HK
Phone: 2857 6625

There are three classes of seats: VIP Cabin, Cotai First and Cotai Class. I recommend Cotai First, which gives you better seats, priority landing, and complimentary drinks and cup noodle. Price is around HKD250 (USD30) depending on your departure time and date.

You will need to go through customs on HK side as well as Macau side, which takes around 5 minutes. Please remember to check your visa (http://www.macautourism.gov.mo/en/info/get2macau.php) requirement for entry to Macau.

Complimentary shuttle bus is right outside the pier -- the one that says "City of Dreams".

Cab/MTR to Sheung Wan = 10 minutes
Ferry to Macau = 1 hour
Shuttle bus to GH Macau = 10 minutes

Thanks for the nice report kuponuts

I'm thinking about going to Macau for a night. Is it convenience to use Cotaijet from the Hyatt TST?

BTW, if you don't mind sharing, what's registering through NBT means?

Have recently stayed the the newly opened GH Macau and thought will post another review here with another opinion - at least in parts.

Arrival: Transfer by the City of Dreams Shuttle bus was swift and effortless. Bus was empty, except me and my partner. At the GH we were greeted by staff and escorted to the reception.

Check-in: Took less than 5mins. No other people there, so no need to make use of Diamond status. Luckily.

We were escorted to our Suite in the Grand Tower. Had a Grand Deluxe Suite King. Size was about 69sqm and was a corner suite. Panoramic views to three sides: the Cotai Strip(Venetian/Four Seasons)/City of Dreams on one side, the mountains on the other and finally towards the sea and airport. At night the view was nice since you could see the light show they have the City of Dreams.

1 separate bed room (with views onto the Cotai Strip), one good sized bathroom and a huge living room. 2 TVs etc. Well designed and laid out. Just what I would expect when going to a Hyatt. Room was of comfortable size for 2 people. Had a fruit basket, chocolates and wine in the room. No complaints.

Staff: Ok, here comes the downside imho. The staff was well below par from what I am used to at a GH property and from what I would expect. Maybe I am too spoiled or too picky, but they just didn't live up to the standard. At the reception and at the concierge desk, they just didn't know the answers to our questions - they were simple ones, i.e. where to take the shuttle bus back to Taipa Ferry terminal etc. Language is another thing. English was average to be below average if at all spoken. A few times staff were not able to speak it all and had to rush off to find an English speaking colleague. That goes for the general staff and also for the service staff at Beijing Kitchen.

Dining: My wife and I tried both dining outlets: Beijing Kitchen (for afternoon snack & breakfast) and the Lobby Lounge. Sadly mezza9 is not open yet, but we did know that in advance.

Being a big fan of Straits Kitchen at the GH Singapore, I was curious about Beijing Kitchen, but also had no expectations. I was pleasantly surpised - in the good way. The design is quite nice, modern, dark colour tones, lots of wood and bricks. They do have 'show kitchens', but slightly different from SG. Anyway, the food - and here I am only talking about the Chinese dishes, were stunningly good. I would go as far as saying it tasted very much authentical 'Mainland'. For a GH food outlet, the price was very reasonable and below of what I would expect.

Also had room service in the late afternoon and it was swift, and food tasted equally good.

Breakfast at Beijing Kitchen is nice. It is semi-buffet, meaning that you can go to get your bread, cereals, juice etc. from a small buffet area and the rest is by menue. Haven't tried the usual western fare, but instead opted for Chinese dishes after the previous good experience. And, yes, it was equally good.

Later on the last day before returning to HK, we had a snack at the Lobby Lounge. There we encountered the first genuine friendly and extremely efficient staff. Food was good, too.

Overall, I would say the food is very good. Would definitely recommend Beijing Kitchen to anyone. And am looking forward to the opening of mezza9. See if that lives up to the original at the GH SG.

Overall: The GH is the only well designed hotel in Macau to stay. Well, at least that is for me. Having seen some other rooms, I have to say you can't go really wrong with any. They are all well designed. When it comes to Grand Tower vs. Grand Club Tower, and having had a 'tour' of their other rooms and the Grand Club Tower, I have to say for this property I would chose not to stay at the Grand Club Tower and ask for a room in the Grand Tower. The view is much more better and more exciting. Once the Grand Club is open, being Diamond you would have access there anyway. No matter where your room is. Be sure to ask for rooms with view of the Cotai Strip/City of Dreams.

In terms of service this hotel still has to come a long way. Maybe we were just unlucky to run into the wrong people, but this view was echoed from associates. But, as a previous poster said regarding it might well beat the GH HK, I strongly doubt that for various reasons and the strongest being: the staff doesn't have the right service mindset at the GH Macau. They do not understand what it means to provide service to guest, genuine service!

The GH Macau is definitely a welcome addition the otherwise very 'cheesy' Macau hotels. It is simplistic understatement - as you find in many other Hyatt hotels. Will be back some day.

Hi mmhk,

I couldn't agree more with what you wrote. So it seems like I am not the only one who thought the service was poor (and I thought maybe I was being picky too)!! :)

And I am so happy to hear that you thought the food was "stunningly good". I was so surprised with Beijing Kitchen's food quality. If I ever return to GH Macau, I think 60% of the reason is for eating Har Gau and Siu Mai at Beijing Kitchen. :p

And on the point of whether GH Macau can surpass GH Hong Kong -- I think GH Macau has the hardware; it just lacks the software. So I think even though GH Macau has a long, long way to go, there is a chance that it will become one of top GHs in Asia.

Thanks for the nice report kuponuts

I'm thinking about going to Macau for a night. Is it convenience to use Cotaijet from the Hyatt TST?

BTW, if you don't mind sharing, what's registering through NBT means?

Hi imm2b,

NBT = Next Big Thing

Sorry for the confusion!

reason is for eating Har Gau and Siu Mai at Beijing Kitchen. :p.

Hi, can't wait now, I will spend all my time trawling the eateries, the room reads superb, I'll use a FFN over the Christmas break, taking one away from the GH HKG.

What I would like to try is the cat from HKIA, has anyone done it. If I read it correctly, prior to immigration, and whilst still in transit, I can access the Macau ferry directly.

The suites at the GH: What is a good floor to aim for, the corner suite mmhk had sounds ideal, anyone experienced anything better? Has anyone any knowledge on the opening of the club floor.

Looking foward to this, so far spending a couple nights in SIN, one in MFM and 3 in HKG. I was going to do PVG, but the early cold snap changed our plans. Then it's back home to await the next FFN promotion;), being Diamond, having FFNs, using suite upgrades, does it get any better than this? regards bkkrop

What I would like to try is the cat from HKIA, has anyone done it. If I read it correctly, prior to immigration, and whilst still in transit, I can access the Macau ferry directly.


Assuming the much more limited sailing schedule works for you, catching the ferry from HKIA to Macau is simple. Just keep your eyes out for the info/ticket desk before you get to HK immigration.

Here is the HKIA sailing schedule - http://www.turbojet.com.hk/eng/schedule/airport.html

Does anyone know if the club lounge is open yet? I tried emailing the hotel, but haven't gotten a response.

Does anyone know if the club lounge is open yet? I tried emailing the hotel, but haven't gotten a response.

The club lounge was open when I stayed there last week.

Does anyone know if the club lounge is open yet? I tried emailing the hotel, but haven't gotten a response.

Yes, it is, and I thought the food offerings were outstanding. Both the evening and breakfast had a wide variety of made to order food, and the bar tender was generous in his pour. Enjoy!

Hey guys!

Great reviews -> But I'm still lost as to whether to get a Club room or a normal room. From the reviews it seems like the normal tower has better views; from what the people have experienced at the club is it worth it?

Thanks!

Hey guys!

Great reviews -> But I'm still lost as to whether to get a Club room or a normal room. From the reviews it seems like the normal tower has better views; from what the people have experienced at the club is it worth it?

Thanks!

Well, as per my opinion, go for the Grand Tower - instead of the Grand Club Tower - and request a room which faces the City of Dreams/Venetian complex. Of, if you feel like, in the same Grand Tower go for a corner Grand Dlx Suite. If you have Diamond status you get the club access anyway. Just my p.o.v. But then, it is all up to you ;)

Since their most basic accommodation is a One Bedroom Suite, do you guys know what kind of upgrade they will give for guests using their Diamond electronic upgrade?

Since their most basic accommodation is a One Bedroom Suite, do you guys know what kind of upgrade they will give for guests using their Diamond electronic upgrade?

I can't speak with any certainty, but when I was there 2 weeks ago, I had booked a 1 br suite as that was the most basic available. Upon check in they had given me a comp upgrade to a grand deluxe suite in the Grand Tower as a diamond. It didn't even take an upgrade cert.

It was a very nice suite looking out towards the Hard Rock and Venetian, and then obviously club access as a diamond as well.

BTW - if you can get a hold of Terry, the asst. front desk manager, his service was stellar. He was the guy who checked me in and made sure I had a comp upgrade as a diamond. He's been working for Hyatt for a number of years, most recently for ~5 yrs at the GH HK. We had a nice conversation comparing various properties around Asia and he did a great job of looking after me during my stay.

Glad to hear the generally positive reports. I was there at the end of October and they were unable to show me any rooms.

BTW, have I missed something? Several posts have referred to GC access as guaranteed to Diamonds. As of several years ago, that guaranteed Diamond privilege was limited to US non-resort properties. I understand that many international hotels will upgrade a Diamond to a club room with GC access, but am I correct in that this is not guaranteed. (I understand that it may be a local custom at certain properties.)

BTW, have I missed something? Several posts have referred to GC access as guaranteed to Diamonds. As of several years ago, that guaranteed Diamond privilege was limited to US non-resort properties. I understand that many international hotels will upgrade a Diamond to a club room with GC access, but am I correct in that this is not guaranteed. (I understand that it may be a local custom at certain properties.)

That benefit has been guaranteed for the better part of a year:

Enjoy the best room available including Regency Club™ or Grand Club™ rooms1(new)

http://goldpassport.hyatt.com/gp/en/benefits/membership_diamond.jsp

Glad to hear the generally positive reports. I was there at the end of October and they were unable to show me any rooms.

BTW, have I missed something? Several posts have referred to GC access as guaranteed to Diamonds. As of several years ago, that guaranteed Diamond privilege was limited to US non-resort properties. I understand that many international hotels will upgrade a Diamond to a club room with GC access, but am I correct in that this is not guaranteed. (I understand that it may be a local custom at certain properties.)

The Grand Club was not openned until late November or early December. Before the Grand Club open Diamonds are offer 2 drinks at the Lobby Lounge and Breakfast at Beijing Kitchen.

I will be revisiting this hotel on 2nd January. I can't wait trying their Club lounge! ;)

I will be revisiting this hotel on 2nd January. I can't wait trying their Club lounge! ;)

How was it?

And did you have a room in that tower or the other tower? If the other tower, how did you feel about the time to get to the lounge?

How was it?

And did you have a room in that tower or the other tower? If the other tower, how did you feel about the time to get to the lounge?

FWIW, I was in the other tower back in Dec. and getting to the club was a complete non-event for me. I was on the twenty-something floor (I think..). It was a simple elevator ride town and then stroll across the lobby.

How was it?

And did you have a room in that tower or the other tower? If the other tower, how did you feel about the time to get to the lounge?

Hi SanDiego1K,

Sorry for the late reply! I was sick and was not able to respond.

I booked two rooms at GH Macau from 2nd to 4th January using NBT awards -- one Grand Suite King and a Grand Deluxe King. Believe it or not, I actually prefer the smaller Grand Suite King than the Grand Deluxe King.

I didn't get to visit the Grand Tower. The concierge at GH Macau told me that Grand Tower is better than Grand Club Tower. Also, I trust the opinions of the reviewers on FT, so I didn't think twice about taking the Grand Tower rooms.

I visited the Club Lounge when I was there. It is the best Club Lounge I have ever experienced -- with sushi, hamburgers, jajiangmian (fried sauce noodle) and various dim sims. Yum, yum!

GH Macau's hardware is extremely good. However, their service was utterly horrible: check in took 20 minutes; asking for a toothbrush took 1 hour; asking for tea bags took 3 hours; getting towels took 5 hours.

For those people who will be visiting GH Macau -- give yourself a challenge and try to get something delivered to you within 30 minutes. :rolleyes:

I booked two rooms at GH Macau from 2nd to 4th January using NBT awards -- one Grand Suite King and a Grand Deluxe King. Believe it or not, I actually prefer the smaller Grand Suite King than the Grand Deluxe King. How were you able to do this? GP keeps telling me that suites and club rooms are not eligible for FFN (NBT) redemption and I can't find any standard rooms on any date I check -- even as far out as October (I realize the promo isn't good until then, but I wanted to check whether there were any normal rooms available ever.)

GP keeps telling me that suites and club rooms are not eligible for FFN (NBT) redemption and I can't find any standard rooms on any date I check -- even as far out as October (I realize the promo isn't good until then, but I wanted to check whether there were any normal rooms available ever.)

I was able to book my Macau Hyatt room online. I simply went into my list of FFN/NBT nights, typed in Macau, and got the dates that I wanted. I just checked, and am still able to do so. I chose an arbitrary date in March.

Fri 19 Mar, 2010 - Sat 20 Mar, 2010
The Next Big Thing Rede Grand Suite King
BOOK
Rate Details

I also was able to book with points online:

Tue 19 Oct, 2010 - Wed 20 Oct, 2010
Gold Passport Award Club Deluxe King
Gold Passport Points: 18000 per room
BOOK
Rate Details
Gold Passport Award Club Deluxe Twin
Gold Passport Points: 18000 per room
BOOK
Rate Details
Gold Passport Award Grand Suite King
Gold Passport Points: 15000 per room
BOOK
Rate Details

I think you didn't get good help from the agent to whom you spoke.

I was able to book my Macau Hyatt room online. I simply went into my list of FFN/NBT nights, typed in Macau, and got the dates that I wanted. I just checked, and am still able to do so. I chose an arbitrary date in March.Thanks -- that worked for me too :p ...

One more question -- the Hyatt web site says that four in a room is okay at this property. I'm not convinced. Is four in a room a reasonable expectation or will I need three rooms for seven people (5 adults, two kids of ~12)?

Thanks -- that worked for me too :p ...

One more question -- the Hyatt web site says that four in a room is okay at this property. I'm not convinced. Is four in a room a reasonable expectation or will I need three rooms for seven people (5 adults, two kids of ~12)?

It is possible, maybe with 3 adults in one room and 2 adults + 2 kids in the other room.

It is possible, maybe with 3 adults in one room and 2 adults + 2 kids in the other room.
That's what I was thinking -- but most hotel rooms outside the US aren't large enough for 2 + 2... I thought it unusual that this property is shown with a maximum occupancy of four per room.

That's what I was thinking -- but most hotel rooms outside the US aren't large enough for 2 + 2... I thought it unusual that this property is shown with a maximum occupancy of four per room.

The rooms are quie big. Suite is their smallest bookable room. However you might need to pay 300MOP per night for an extra rollaway bed, which I think is worth it.

The rooms are quie big. Suite is their smallest bookable room. However you might need to pay 300MOP per night for an extra rollaway bed, which I think is worth it.That's a lot less than an additional FFN.

That's a lot less than an additional FFN.

And considering the fact that every registered guest gets lounge access -- in this case, a very, very nice lounge -- you will see why GH Macau is the best hotel for NBT redemption.

The lowest bookable room now is "Deluxe King or Twin". Can't find description anywhere on its site.

The lowest bookable room now is "Deluxe King or Twin". Can't find description anywhere on its site.

Oh no! Looks like they are starting to sell their Deluxe King and Twin rooms. These are standard (i.e. smaller) rooms, which were previously given to casino guests for free. If anyone wants to redeem a suite, they probably should do it asap in case they change the redemption policy.

I am wondering would I get an Diamond upgrade to Grand suite King if I booked the Deluxe:confused:
I know diamond room upgrade exclude suite but it seems they have ton of those:confused:

The lowest bookable room now is "Deluxe King or Twin". Can't find description anywhere on its site.

Room description is available now. It's 52 sq meters, similar to the Club Room but without Club access.

My thanks to all who contributed to this thread but particularly to the extensive descriptions from kuponuts and mmhk. We had an outstanding experience at this beautiful hotel.

Transport from HKIA (Hong Kong International Airport) to hotel
We flew into HKG from the States and never entered Hong Kong. Instead, we followed the ferry signs at HKG til just before immigration. There, we bought our ferry tickets. There are three different sections for ferries; simply look for the Macau sign. There are two sections on the ferry; first for 271HKD and coach for 140HKD. We only had carry on luggage but if we had checked bags, the ferry company could have retrieved our luggage for us. We then went thru a ticket screen down an escalator to the gates for the ferries. There is free wifi in this area. When our departure was announced, we went thru the covered walkway to the ferry. First class tickets gave us upstairs seating with a small snack and beverage. We were also first off at Macau, so a bit of a jump on the immigration line.

After we cleared Macau immigration, we went outside where we could see the bank of buses to the various casino/hotels. We took an escalator down so that we could walk under the road, go up an elevator and come out near the bus. Look for "City of Dreams". The bus leaves every 15 minutes much of the day. The Hyatt is the 2nd drop off point. It is free.

Hotel
Others have already covered the hotel extensively. We were greeted warmly, and my husband's upcoming birthday was mentioned. We had a suite booked, and I asked for the view of Cotai Strip/City of Dreams. We had an xx06 room in the Grand Tower with windows on 3 sides. The hotel had given my husband a beautiful and delicious cake, which was already in the room. We had asked for a DVD player using the 7 day advance concierge service. It was already set up. The suite was luxurious, with understated elegance. On entering, the bedroom was straight ahead, and the living room to the right. There was a round table with 4 chairs, and a large sectional sofa. The bathroom is spacious, but only one sink when there is ample room to have installed two.

Lounge
The lounge is HUGE, with predominantly table seating though there are some sofas and chairs on first entering the area. There is a large outdoor seating area as well. The lounge has its own open plan kitchen. The usual egg dishes were available freshly made at breakfast. What was more impressive was the range of hot dishes for the evening hours. Appetizers were served from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. Cold dishes were somewhat limited and included salmon, cheeses, prosciutto, and melon. Hot dishes made when ordered included vegetarian spring rolls, fried wonton, steamed wonton, beef noodle soup (delicious!), mini burgers, and chicken satay. There were three chefs for the handful of folks in the lounge. There were also some deserts and fruits. We had planned to get some dinner later in the evening, but were much too full to do so.

Other
The concierge got tickets for us to the Dragon's Treasure Show at the Bubble show mentioned by kuponuts. It's a 5 to 10 minute walk from the hotel thru the shopping arcade. It's terrific 3D photography, primarily underwater. I couldn't for the life of me figure out a story line, between fish, sharks, dragons, mermaids, anemone and the like, but it was good fun. It's given every half hour from noon to 6pm, then on the hour.

Our first night, we went to Golden Pavilion in the casino for the night menu (available after 11pm). When kuponuts reported on it, it was 11 MOP + service. It is now 18 MOP. There is a choice of about 10 dishes. The restaurant is on the ground level of the casino. There is an interesting restaurant upstairs that has a range of Asian dishes for 28 MOP each all day long.

We had Peking duck at the Beijing Kitchen in the hotel. We needed to order 45 minutes in advance, so I simply advised them at the time of booking. It was beautifully prepared and presented. As part of the preparation, duck broth was made as the final dish.

We had intended to buy onward ferry tickets from the concierge. However he advised us that there was a 10% service charge. We could buy direct from a travel agency down the escalator by the mermaid show.

Service/Staff
Service was exceptional. Early reports spoke of aloof service and so-so English skills. Staff has come a long ways since those reports. We had superb service, both from the front desk and in the lounge. The cooks in the lounge do not speak English, but the staff proactively translate. Outside of the hotel, in the casino for instance, English is extremely limited.

Overall
This is another gem for Hyatt. It is a beautiful, luxurious hotel to which I will happily return.

My thanks to all who contributed to this thread but particularly to the extensive descriptions from kuponuts and mmhk. We had an outstanding experience at this beautiful hotel.

Glad you enjoyed it! :D

We loved the Grand Hyatt Macau too. The rooms was one of the largest standard rooms I've ever seen.

The lounge was very impressive, with ceilings that looked to be three stories high and 3-5 cooks preparing hot food, morning and evening. The dumplings, also available in the morning and the evening, were especially delicious.

The Venetian, which has a large casino and a shopping center with Gondola rides, is a short walk away.

City of Dreams (connect to the hotel) has an impressive number of free shuttles going in many different directions (the airport, both ferry terminals, mid-island near the Grand Lisboa, the border crossing, etc.). If you can figure the free shuttles from the other casinos as well (e.g., Venetian), you can really get around the islands without paying. Taxis are also quite reasonable.

The Dragon's show was worth seeing, given that it was free. The concierge didn't offer us tickets, though, so we had to wait in line.

Several previous posters mentioned poor service. We didn't have any problems (overlooking relatively poor English by the cooks). In fact, the service was uniformly good during our stay.

Several previous posters mentioned poor service. We didn't have any problems (overlooking relatively poor English by the cooks). In fact, the service was uniformly good during our stay.I'd have to agree that the service was not a problem at all. It was good to excellent during our stay. I would definitely stay here again.

Thanks for the report. Sounds like something to put in the plan for May. Safe continued travels.

Stayed at the GH Macau for two nights on the Memorial Day weekend, thought I wrote a mini review:

Getting to Macau
I took the new Cotai Jet service from HKIA Sky Pier. I was the only passenger and it was a quick 40-minute journey to the Taipa Ferry Terminal. There were long lines at immigration since another ferry from HK had just arrived, but the lines were moving briskly and it couldn't have been more than a 15-minute wait.

Outside, there were shuttle buses to various hotels/casinos. I crossed the road and found the City of Dreams shuttle bus. Waited for a new minutes before the bus departed. The journey was very quick, around 5 minutes and Hyatt was the second stop.

Hotel
Check in was efficient although not terribly fast. I was informed that I had been upgraded to their best King Club room in the Grand Club tower. I had booked the cheapest room available. I was escorted to my room (3176), it was located in a corner and had views to both the Cotai Strip/Hard Rock/Crown/Venetian and the hills of Coloane/Cotai Dome.

As expected, the room was very nice and big, it had comfortable bed and an L-shaped sofa, the bathroom was huge. There was also a bottle of wine and small box containing 3-pcs of chocolate (part of the Diamond amenity) and a welcome letter from the Hotel Manager. On the second day, for some reason, they changed the bottle of wine that was there previously to another bottle and a big fruit bowl arrived along with another box of chocolate.

Lounge
As others had mentioned, the lounge was super huge, it was definitely the best lounge I had ever been to, it was simply amazing and the staff were wonderful and couldn't do enough to please you. Food selection was fantastic and in the evening included crab cakes, yakitori, ham and cheese on toasted panini, various spring rolls, various noodles, chicken satay, mini burgers, dim sum selections, salmon on pancake, and a lot of other things I couldn't seem to remember. In the morning, there were made to order eggs, bacon and sausages, congee, fried rice, noodles, and the same dim sum selection they served in the evening.

The lounge had a capacity of 250 people and according to the staff there, not all rooms in the Grand Club Tower had access to the Club lounge. The lounge itself was not busy at all during my stay.

Service
Service was outstanding in the lounge, poolside, and reception desk (both in the main lobby and the Grand Club). The staff's English could be better and I was not addressed by name in the lounge only because they had problem pronouncing it.

If there was a glitch, it was that my room hadn't been serviced when I returned at 3pm and this was after I hung a "Please Make Up Room" sign since 9am. I called Guest Services who promised to get on it right away and waited in the Club lounge. When I returned an hour later, my room was still not cleaned! I had to return to the Club lounge and asked the staff there and only then my room was cleaned.

During the wait, the lounge was deserted and the usual staff was nowhere to be found. There were two suited gentlemen chattering away there and I asked for a glass of water. They looked at me like I was mad and told me that the lounge was closed and I couldn't get anything and that I should come back at 5.30 (in broken English). I found them to be totally lazy and unhelpful. The broken English didn't help too. Fortunately, soon after, a Club lounge staff appeared and she was more than happy to get me the glass of water.

Departure
Check out was swift and the front desk staff told me how to catch the shuttle back to the Taipa Ferry Terminal, which was from the Shuttle Center on the lower level of the Mall.

Conclusion
Although the housekeeping and the two lazy male staff put a damper on my stay, the experience was definitely excellent and I wouldn't hesitate to return here again and recommend this hotel to everyone.

If there was a glitch, it was that my room hadn't been serviced when I returned at 3pm and this was after I hung a "Please Make Up Room" sign since 9am. I called Guest Services who promised to get on it right away and waited in the Club lounge. When I returned an hour later, my room was still not cleaned! I had to return to the Club lounge and asked the staff there and only then my room was cleaned.

In actual fact, one of the reasons why the staff had not been able to make your room in time is that it actually takes them a long time to clean the huge rooms at GH Macau. I was in the room when a cleaning staff came to clean my room. I kid you not. The staff worked very efficiently, but still took 1 hour to clean and vacuum the whole room.

June FTers can book a room from MOP 833++ with birthday bonus before end of June (offer code XCODGH)

Others can book a suite from MOP 1288++ with 5000 bonus points before end of July (offer code GP629). The bonus will be posted in 6-8 weeks after the stay.

In actual fact, one of the reasons why the staff had not been able to make your room in time is that it actually takes them a long time to clean the huge rooms at GH Macau. I was in the room when a cleaning staff came to clean my room. I kid you not. The staff worked very efficiently, but still took 1 hour to clean and vacuum the whole room.

I do believe you and understand that to clean the whole room takes a long time (for example, the bathroom itself ran the length of the room). However, it just seemed unacceptable to me to have a room not made up by 3pm, it makes me think maybe the hotel doesn't have enough Housekeeping staff. There weren't all that many rooms on my floor.

When I left the room at 9am, there was a cleaning staff on my floor. But, there was none when I returned at 3pm and found my room still not yet made up. So I thought they could have missed my room or something. When I returned again before 5pm, the cleaning staff was just cleaning the room opposite mine, so it definitely takes a lot of time to clean the whole floor.

I do believe you and understand that to clean the whole room takes a long time (for example, the bathroom itself ran the length of the room). However, it just seemed unacceptable to me to have a room not made up by 3pm, it makes me think maybe the hotel doesn't have enough Housekeeping staff. There weren't all that many rooms on my floor.

When I left the room at 9am, there was a cleaning staff on my floor. But, there was none when I returned at 3pm and found my room still not yet made up. So I thought they could have missed my room or something. When I returned again before 5pm, the cleaning staff was just cleaning the room opposite mine, so it definitely takes a lot of time to clean the whole floor.

It's no secret that GH Macau is understaffed. I wouldn't be surprised that the hotel is losing money, but I heard that the point is to attract customers and profit from gambling at the casino.

June FTers can book a room from MOP 833++ with birthday bonus before end of June (offer code XCODGH)

Others can book a suite from MOP 1288++ with 5000 bonus points before end of July (offer code GP629). The bonus will be posted in 6-8 weeks after the stay.

For those who book the Happy Birthday Package (i.e. promotion code:XCODGH) you need to make arrangement with front desk agent when you need the birthday cake and wine

It's no secret that GH Macau is understaffed. I wouldn't be surprised that the hotel is losing money, but I heard that the point is to attract customers and profit from gambling at the casino.

Grand Hyatt Macau is recruiting new staff at the moment. Hope the problem of understaffed can be resolve soon.

Any thoughts on location? People have mentioned the shuttle buses but what about the area in and around the hotel? I'll be there for one-night in July and am trying to decide between here and other comparable properties. Oh and I'm a Diamond too.

The Good: The 'hardware' -- physical aspects -- of the hotel cannot be better. It's grand yet subtle, comfortable but highly sophisticated. Booked a Grand Deluxe Suite for 2 nights, with a separate living room, bedroom and a bathroom which is almost identical to the size of the bedroom. Very comfortable bed with 2 big-screen HDTVs. Nespresso machine with 6 capsules a day. Very clean. Breakfast at mezza9 was included in price. Pre-check-in econceirge request of iron and iron board was already in room when i got in. Tours were booked at a 10% surcharge.

The Bad: I booked the City of Dreams package and check-in staff seems a little lost at what was offerred. Enquired about whether I could use the CotaiJet ticket into Kowloon instead of Hong Kong was met with a blank stare. Was told to bring the letter to the casino to register for membership to get the MOP300 City Dollars but was met with blank stares (yet again) at the membership counter, who was manned by one of the rudest service person you can meet in macau, who claims that she would credit the mop300 into my membership card for use only in the slot machines (which did not materialise). Could not find the ipod docking station in my room. Nespresso machines available but you could only find the chinese tea-cups and other cocktail glasses in the minibar, which pretty much defeats the purpose.

Point to note for elite Gold Passport members : there is no separate elite check-in counter. Check-in and -out seems to be free for all, queue wherever you want, rush up whenever you feel like it. Roped queuing area was not observed or enforced. No mention of my elite status (albeit only Platinum) and no frills whatsoever was offered. In fact I had to mention my status to the check-in lady before she typed away and said yes, you are platinum member. Asked if the hotel will be giving me anything but she only mentioned what I have read on the website on the list of benefits I am entitled to already as a platinum member. Told that I will get the best room in my category but no lounge access. Not sure about the best room as it seems rather vanilla and ordinary to me, being stuck in a room facing the airport in the middle of the hallway (was told that corner rooms have a 3-way view, but was not given those). Hotel directory claims that all club floor and suites guests have access to the lounge, so called guest services to confirm this, but was again turned down.

Breakfast on the first day seems impressive, but repetition on the 2nd day made it boring. Interesting interaction between the manager and staffs who apparently made their displeasure with the manager obvious to all those who care to listen in.

All in all, GH Macau is an excellent hotel if you are after the hardware of what a luxury hotel should be, but the hotel essentially needs to offer some warmth and sincerity from the service staff, who ought to be trained to be more interpersonal with the guests rather than just to get the job done and send the guest along. I would have expected more from a GH hotel, instead of leaving me wondering why I didn't check into my usual Venetian which is just across the road.

===============

On a side note: I've sent the above to the Gold Passport email hoping to get some light, particularly on the lounge access. Even though I understand from this forum that a Grand Deluxe Suite does not grant access to the lounge, the hotel directory in the room stated that it does, which after checking with guest relations and front desk confirmed that it does not.

Regardless, Gold Passport has replied (after 3 weeks) with a rather ordinary email and credited 6000 points to my account "in appreciation of my feedback", which was not what I was seeking in the first place. I just want clarification on this matter on the lounge access, as this will determine my return to the hotel on my next trip to Macau.

Has anyone had any luck with lounge access at this hotel when you are not booked into the club floor?

It appears that you have booked into a Grand Deluxe Suite King room but was only offered a base Grand suite King room. There are only two Grand Deluxe Suite King rooms on each floor at either end of the hallway. The Grand Deluxe Suite rooms were numbered XX06 and XX18 that have 3 way view and include lounge access. The Grand Deluxe Suite room is about 30 - 40% more expansive than the base Grand Suite room. I suggest you check your confirmation letter to see if it states that it is a Grand Deluxe Suite King and then contact the Grand Hyatt Macau for their action.
By the way you can request promotion code GP629 which offers 5000 points.
The bonus will be posted 6 - 8 weeks after the stay.

We have stayed at GH Macau several times in the last few months. Generally, we are very happy with our stays. The rooms are decent size and very clean and comfortable. The lounge is very impressive with a good selection of both cold and hot food and beverages. The staff at the lounge are also very friendly.

But the one thing that did bother us was the check-out process. Similar to the previous postings, there was only one agent at the front desk (the Grand Club) to process both check-in and check-out. At a recent stay, we ended up waiting in line for over 25 minutes to check out a nil charge bill. I would expect a standard check-out should take no more than 5 minutes. To me, the 25 minutes waiting time is very unreasonable and almost caused us to miss the ferry. We also heard a lot of disgruntled guests in the queue. GH Macau really needs to improve this, otherwise, the aggravation is enough to drive people away.

Grand Hyatt Macau is running a "Happy Birthday" promotion at the moment. For those who celebrate their birthday in September can book the package starting at MOP694++.

Benefits include:
1) 1 night at a Grand Deluxe King Room,
2) 1 birthday cake
3) 1 luggage tag
4) 2 glasses of sparkling wine when dining in Hotel Restaurants.
5) each guess can book a maximum of 2 rooms.

However you cannot book the package online, you have to call
+852 2721 1234 or toll free number 001 800 2200 1234

Can anyone remember whether there was a G1/2 bonus for August?

Thanks!

Can anyone remember whether there was a G1/2 bonus for August?

Thanks!

There was no G bonus for August.

We stayed at this property last Christmas, thought the room was great, but the staff were extremely dotty. We had a problem with the bathroom drain blocking and flooding the room. Eventually they sent someone up to fix the issue but it didn't occur to them they would need to send in housekeeping to mop up the floods that were making there way thru the room. No offer of a room change or even an apology.

Have to say had our best food of the trip at the hotel restaurant Beijing Kitchen. My mouth waters just thinking about it. Also the little cafe in reception serves yummy portugese custard tarts.

I stayed at this hotel on 22nd September and watched the latest water show "The House of Dancing Water (http://www.thehouseofdancingwater.com/)". The show was fantastic! :D

I was lucky enough to have booked the WOW package (http://macau.grand.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/offers/details.jsp;jsessionid=023666972876C88931CE5C9C655 1317B.atg01-prd-atg1?specialOfferId=32427177&icamp=specialOfferId_32427177_landing) for HKD$1699, which included:
- one night accommodation in GH Macau King room (got upgraded to Twin Deluxe room)
- C-reserve tickets for two (retail price HKD$380)
- breakfast for two at mezza 9
- MOP300 City Dollar (actually I didn't receive this at the end, but it's okay as it is not so useful)
- Priority Pass for the Dragon's Treasure show (again useless as it's the same as the free passes that everybody else gets at the show's entrance)
- 25% discount Kid's City entrance (useless)

This package is no longer bookable on the website. If you want to book it, you need to go to House of Dancing Water (http://www.thehouseofdancingwater.com/) website.

Advice 1 -- If you are a Diamond member, I recommend you have breakfast at the Club Lounge. While the range of food at Mezza 9 is larger, you have to compete with normal guests for yummy har gao's and siu mai's. And these guests are ruthless. I waited all morning for the har gao's and the two selfish ladies in front of me took all of them away -- two steamers worth (24 x har gao's) :mad:

Advice 2 --I think the best seats for the show are at the center, either C-reserve in the first two rows or B-reserve in the following rows. Beware that you can get wet if you sit in the first few rows. They do give you towels though. :p

Did you get stay credit for using it through their site?

I stayed at this hotel on 22nd September and watched the latest water show "The House of Dancing Water (http://www.thehouseofdancingwater.com/)". The show was fantastic! :D

I was lucky enough to have booked the WOW package (http://macau.grand.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/offers/details.jsp;jsessionid=023666972876C88931CE5C9C655 1317B.atg01-prd-atg1?specialOfferId=32427177&icamp=specialOfferId_32427177_landing) for HKD$1699, which included:
- one night accommodation in GH Macau King room (got upgraded to Twin Deluxe room)
- C-reserve tickets for two (retail price HKD$380)
- breakfast for two at mezza 9
- MOP300 City Dollar (actually I didn't receive this at the end, but it's okay as it is not so useful)
- Priority Pass for the Dragon's Treasure show (again useless as it's the same as the free passes that everybody else gets at the show's entrance)
- 25% discount Kid's City entrance (useless)

This package is no longer bookable on the website. If you want to book it, you need to go to House of Dancing Water (http://www.thehouseofdancingwater.com/) website.

Advice 1 -- If you are a Diamond member, I recommend you have breakfast at the Club Lounge. While the range of food at Mezza 9 is larger, you have to compete with normal guests for yummy har gao's and siu mai's. And these guests are ruthless. I waited all morning for the har gao's and the two selfish ladies in front of me took all of them away -- two steamers worth (24 x har gao's) :mad:

Advice 2 --I think the best seats for the show are at the center, either C-reserve in the first two rows or B-reserve in the following rows. Beware that you can get wet if you sit in the first few rows. They do give you towels though. :p

I got stay credit when i booked through Hyatt website. I am not sure what happens if you book through the House of Dancing Water website though. Technically, it's a third party website and you might not get the credit.

I see that they have a House of Dancing Water Wine and Dine package running.

http://macau.grand.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/news-details.jsp?newsId=38718393

I got stay credit when i booked through Hyatt website. I am not sure what happens if you book through the House of Dancing Water website though. Technically, it's a third party website and you might not get the credit.

I see that they have a House of Dancing Water Wine and Dine package running.

http://macau.grand.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/news-details.jsp?newsId=38718393

Thanks, Ill have a look.

I stay here everytime im in Macau, Rooms are great, especially as I always get upgraded. Probably got the largest fruit basket ever on my last trip. Check in and out can be messy but then again that the Macanese way.

Love the lounge, small selection of food but made to order so great!

One warning: Guard your in room bottle opener! If you happen to leave it on room service tray and its removed, you're unlikely to get a new one without room service waiter searching you! Seriously, they made me feel like I stole it! Language and cultural differences are to blame I guess but its happened more than once altough I now see it as very funny!

I have booked a Friday and a Saturday consecutive nights but in 2 separate award reservations during the November Grand Prix weekend. I need to be in Macau that busy weekend and Grand Hyatt happened to have award room available (probably only 1, as after I booked the availability disappeared.)

I would like to hear any comments from FTers who have recently had stays there.

TIA.

I have booked a Friday and a Saturday consecutive nights but in 2 separate award reservations during the November Grand Prix weekend. I need to be in Macau that busy weekend and Grand Hyatt happened to have award room available (probably only 1, as after I booked the availability disappeared.)

I would like to hear any comments from FTers who have recently had stays there.

TIA.

I was there in July.

Upgraded to a corner suite, friendly staff in the lounge, good transportation options, impressive decor.

Downsides: slow Internet, and in my room, the ethernet jack and the power points were on a panel that tucked away into a table, and wouldn't stay untucked.

Two issues: if flying into MFM, the bus pickup point is hard to find. Also, I had to be a bit more assertive than I care to be at certain times, as there are plenty of guests who will think nothing of cutting queues...

Stayed at this excellent property several times since the opening . Latest being 2 months ago and found it excellent and settled. Diamonds get invaluable recognition ( made last minute booking but hotel was packed and still got very generous upgrade and a reasonable rate ! - without any effort too !!)

Grand club lounge is a step below the GH hkg lounge ( solely cos of less premium alcohol offerings but nonetheless very very good ). ;)

One big downer is the very disappointing Beijing kitchen restaurant which they seem ti be aware of ....

Pool can get rowdy.

I'm a hyatt diamond and planning on staying here the first time. However, I am traveling with 4 adults (including myself). If we squeeze into one suite (debating whether using points, or paying and using suite upgrade certificate...), can I get all 4 into the lounge? I am ok with paying a fee if it is reasonable. thoughts? the rate currently is about $2400 HKD...or 15000 GP points. One night only in macau. Thank you all.

I'm a hyatt diamond and planning on staying here the first time. However, I am traveling with 4 adults (including myself). If we squeeze into one suite (debating whether using points, or paying and using suite upgrade certificate...), can I get all 4 into the lounge? I am ok with paying a fee if it is reasonable. thoughts? the rate currently is about $2400 HKD...or 15000 GP points. One night only in macau. Thank you all.

1) You can't use points for a suite night unless it is 3 or more days. (from my understanding). So that would probably be a regular room.
2) IMHO, it is a waste to use a suite upgrade at this property as the price difference is less than 1-200 USD and the difference between a regular room and the suite is not much, but your call.
3) Technically as a Diamond you are upgraded, but not sure if they will upgrade you to a suite here, but they don't need to.
4) If you do fit into one room then they should give you access to the lounge, they may ask a fee or wave it. Their call.

PS: I have not stayed at this property as a Diamond.

1) I used one of my Diamond suite upgrades and got a bigger room with a living room. Which was nice. It was just one bump up to a King Suite. It was fine for 4 adults and they put two rollaway beds in the living room.

2) On a subsequent stay, I have paid for a suite upgrade before and it turned out to be USD $50 more. In retrospect, I would have just paid for the upgrade suite instead of used the Diamond upgrade. The reason is that the diamond upgrade is great for extended stays (7 days+) where as points can only upgrade for a 4 night stay.

3) The lounge's reception is a bit mix. Sometime they are friendly and sometimes they are not. With 4 adults, you may have to pay for two of the guests.

Hello. I am into HKG next week (27th) for three nights. At this moment I intend to spend Saturday night at the GH Macau. Will spend night before and after at the Conrad Hong Kong. Does it make sense to move to the GH Macau for one night or should I just spend my entire nights stay at the Conrad? I would like to see the new Galaxy Entertainment complex but the idea of it being jam pack in Macau along with possible back-ups at immigration is not appealing.

? Is it easy to cab from Cotai to Macau proper during this season aka New Years? Any and all comments appreciated. Thank you.

Hello. I am into HKG next week (27th) for three nights. At this moment I intend to spend Saturday night at the GH Macau. Will spend night before and after at the Conrad Hong Kong. Does it make sense to move to the GH Macau for one night or should I just spend my entire nights stay at the Conrad? I would like to see the new Galaxy Entertainment complex but the idea of it being jam pack in Macau along with possible back-ups at immigration is not appealing.

? Is it easy to cab from Cotai to Macau proper during this season aka New Years? Any and all comments appreciated. Thank you.

Went to Macau two years ago for Chinese New Year - it was a complete chaos at the Macau ferry terminal, had to wait over 1.5 hour just to clear immigration (not to mention people were bumping you, cutting in line, and spitting on the floor...). I think the Cotai ferry terminal is probably a better bet. If you are staying at GH Macau or wanted to see the new Galaxy which are both on the Cotai side, you're probably better off using the Cotai terminal.

I would not do it for one night unless you don't mind the crowd and long wait.

Thank you. I am seriously getting that feeling.

I would not do it for one night unless you don't mind the crowd and long wait.

Or, if you are feeling lucky for the casino.

I just posted a detailed review of the Grand Hyatt Macau on Tripadvisor - in case you're interested.
http://www.tripadvisor.de/ShowUserReviews-g664891-d1605074-r123449130-Grand_Hyatt_Macau-Macau.html
Best regards
Thomas

We're planning a 7-8 night trip to HK in Oct and thinking of spending part of it at the GH Macau, splitting between the GH HK. As strictly tourists, not interested in the casinos at all, wondering how far/inconvenient the GH Macau is from the old sections of Macau.

Would anyone comment on how much time to split between GH HK and GH Macau, assuming 8 nights on our first trip to HK? 6 at GH HK and 2 at Macau? Or 5 at HK and 3 at Macau?

Also, considering ferry transport, does HKIA to Macau to GH HK to HKIA sound good, or would there be some advantage/convenience to some other order?

I think two nights in Macau are really more than enough. The old part of Macau was interesting, and it was quite easy to get around. The GH was a short taxi ride away. It's in the Cotai Strip area, with a few casinos. It really was a great hotel.

Taking a ferry is a great idea. We took it from/to HK, but it is als:) avalable directly from HKG airport. There are fewer ferries directly to the Cotai Strip area (and I'm not sure there is one from the airport directly to there) but there are plenty of taxis and free buses from both of the ferry terminals to all the big hotels, including the GH.

We're planning a 7-8 night trip to HK in Oct and thinking of spending part of it at the GH Macau, splitting between the GH HK. As strictly tourists, not interested in the casinos at all, wondering how far/inconvenient the GH Macau is from the old sections of Macau.

Would anyone comment on how much time to split between GH HK and GH Macau, assuming 8 nights on our first trip to HK? 6 at GH HK and 2 at Macau? Or 5 at HK and 3 at Macau?

Also, considering ferry transport, does HKIA to Macau to GH HK to HKIA sound good, or would there be some advantage/convenience to some other order?

I think two nights in Macau are really more than enough. The old part of Macau was interesting, and it was quite easy to get around. The GH was a short taxi ride away. It's in the Cotai Strip area, with a few casinos. It really was a great hotel.

Taking a ferry is a great idea. We took it from/to HK, but it is als:) avalable directly from HKG airport. There are fewer ferries directly to the Cotai Strip area (and I'm not sure there is one from the airport directly to there) but there are plenty of taxis and free buses from both of the ferry terminals to all the big hotels, including the GH.

I would take the ferry from HKIA to macau directly. Macau isn't that big an Island so I won't worry too much about it. Macau is very accessible in general so I won't be too concerned about it the location of the GHM.

I agree that 2 nights in Macau is nice enough as is, but then again I like the charms that it has so I don't mind a 3rd night there. Not to mention the food there is interesting because it has a strong Portuguese influence.

For right now I've booked 6 nights at the GH HK and 2 nights at GH Macau. With a nice lounge we tend to move a bit slowly in the morning, so we're thinking we'll need the extra time in HK if we want to see much.

Logistically it did not work out well trying to do Macau first, so we'll be returning to the airport from the GH Macau. Flight is at 3:30 pm and from a quick check there seems to be a ferry to HKIA at 12:30, so I think a 12 noon checkout will give us enough time to make the flight, unless I'm missing something regarding crossing borders (customs, immigration, etc.). I seem to remember reading a post about going through exit immigration control when leaving Macau, so I'll have to check that out sometime.

For right now I've booked 6 nights at the GH HK and 2 nights at GH Macau. With a nice lounge we tend to move a bit slowly in the morning, so we're thinking we'll need the extra time in HK if we want to see much.

Logistically it did not work out well trying to do Macau first, so we'll be returning to the airport from the GH Macau. Flight is at 3:30 pm and from a quick check there seems to be a ferry to HKIA at 12:30, so I think a 12 noon checkout will give us enough time to make the flight, unless I'm missing something regarding crossing borders (customs, immigration, etc.). I seem to remember reading a post about going through exit immigration control when leaving Macau, so I'll have to check that out sometime.

I would give myself 60-90 minutes for that ferry, unless you have done it before. You should also take note when the later ferry leaves, just in case

I would give myself 60-90 minutes for that ferry, unless you have done it before. You should also take note when the later ferry leaves, just in case

Do you mean allow 60-90 minutes from checkout until the ferry departure time?

Do you mean allow 60-90 minutes from checkout until the ferry departure time?

Yep. There are multiple ferry terminals in MFM, and while it doesn't happen often, I have been stuck in slight jams before.

But of course I just err on the side of caution.

Yep. There are multiple ferry terminals in MFM, and while it doesn't happen often, I have been stuck in slight jams before.

But of course I just err on the side of caution.

Thanks, I would have planned on only 30 min.

I may take another look at doing Macau first, or although my wife will scream at have to change hotels another time, we could try for 3 nights at GH HK, 2 at GH Macau, and then 3 back at GH HK (I would assume they would allow us to leave some luggage) or even spend the last 3 nights at HR HK (since I had originally thought of splitting between GH and HR HK. It would give me another stay credit, which are becoming "precious" to me.

I've seen frequent mention of the ferry between Macau and TST. Does that mean that transportation to/from GH Macau would be more convenient for HR HK, which is at TST, than GH HK?

Thanks, I would have planned on only 30 min.

I may take another look at doing Macau first, or although my wife will scream at have to change hotels another time, we could try for 3 nights at GH HK, 2 at GH Macau, and then 3 back at GH HK (I would assume they would allow us to leave some luggage) or even spend the last 3 nights at HR HK (since I had originally thought of splitting between GH and HR HK. It would give me another stay credit, which are becoming "precious" to me.

I've seen frequent mention of the ferry between Macau and TST. Does that mean that transportation to/from GH Macau would be more convenient for HR HK, which is at TST, than GH HK?

I don't know how you travel (talking about bags and stuff, you will see why later). I would do Macau at either the start, or the end of the trip (like you are doing now). Like you said there is a ferry to and from Macau from HKIA. However, the ferry at HKIA is before/after immigration at HKG, meaning you don't get your passport stamped at HKG, instead it is like transiting straight to MFM and getting your passport stamped at MFM ferry terminal. I have not done the return, but I would expect that you need to stamp your passport and screen bags and check in when returning to the airport eventually. I have also not done this (HKIA - MFM) with check in, so I can't tell you much about that process either. Thus, I tell you to give yourself more time, to get to the ferry terminal and process.

Here is where you need to do some reading and have a map with you.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong_%E2%80%93_Macau_Ferry_Terminal,_Hong_Kon g

HKG has the following terminals:

HKIA
Sheung Wan, HK island
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon island

(There are more but they aren't important for you)

MFM has the following terminals:

Macau island
Taipa island (where the GHM, MFM airport, venetian hotel, etc is located)


Not all ferries serve all locations, so you need to research, it is a pain I know, or you could e-mail it to the hotel and ask them to help!

FWIW, I usually go to MFM/HKG by ferry via TST (here is where bags come in), the terminal building itself is a good 10-15 minute hike from the HRTST and a 5-10 minute hike to the subway / MTR (which can take you to the station very near the GHHK). You can probably cab to either location and it shouldn't be too bad in cost, unless it is on a weekend, or during peak hours.

The HK island terminal (Sheung Wan) seems to be connected to the subway, which is 3-4 stops from the GHHK too, but I've never done that. You can probably cab from there too.

Do you research and plan, it will actually make your trip more convent for yourself.

Like I said earlier, I would go to Macau first from HKIA if I were planning the trip.

Thanks DH. I didn't mean to impose re precise ferry info. I will of course be sure to look everything up in detail well before we go.

Right now I was mostly looking for some direction to decide what order to do the trip in, which is exactly what you gave me.

I had originally planned HKG to GH Macau to GH HK to HKG for basically 2 reasons:

1. Hotel rates were nominally less expensive that way; don't remember the difference in HK$, but it was equivalent to 6000 yen in total.
2. We're usually more energetic at the beginning of a trip and we thought the energy would be best spent sightseeing HK.

However, thanks to what you've given me, I'm going to switch the order so we go to Macau first, for the following reasons:

1. The timing on ferry transport seems just a bit risky. Not a big issue on arrival or between Macau and HK, but would be a major problem if we messed it up on the way back to HKG. A taxi to the airport from GH HK seems a lot easier to plan.
2. Although we'll be traveling light, we plan to take a half-empty suitcase with plenty of room for shopping (I've love to get a couple of pairs of squash shoes). The suitcase will be very light on arrival, but probably not so on departure. Again it would seem like less trouble traveling to the airport by taxi rather than ferry on return.

So thanks for the help in getting those priorities straightened out.

We'll probably use a Diamond suite upgrade for the 2 nights at the GH Macau. I know that you and others have pointed out the low value of doing so, but I still have the 4 expiring in Feb and they cannot be used in Kyoto, and would be of even less value for 1-night stays in Osaka, which are the only other places we expect to be going. I abandoned my dubious strategy of trying to get upgraded with only one paid night at the Churhill and the PHV.

Thanks DH. I didn't mean to impose re precise ferry info. I will of course be sure to look everything up in detail well before we go.

Right now I was mostly looking for some direction to decide what order to do the trip in, which is exactly what you gave me.

I had originally planned HKG to GH Macau to GH HK to HKG for basically 2 reasons:

1. Hotel rates were nominally less expensive that way; don't remember the difference in HK$, but it was equivalent to 6000 yen in total.
2. We're usually more energetic at the beginning of a trip and we thought the energy would be best spent sightseeing HK.

However, thanks to what you've given me, I'm going to switch the order so we go to Macau first, for the following reasons:

1. The timing on ferry transport seems just a bit risky. Not a big issue on arrival or between Macau and HK, but would be a major problem if we messed it up on the way back to HKG. A taxi to the airport from GH HK seems a lot easier to plan.
2. Although we'll be traveling light, we plan to take a half-empty suitcase with plenty of room for shopping (I've love to get a couple of pairs of squash shoes). The suitcase will be very light on arrival, but probably not so on departure. Again it would seem like less trouble traveling to the airport by taxi rather than ferry on return.

So thanks for the help in getting those priorities straightened out.

We'll probably use a Diamond suite upgrade for the 2 nights at the GH Macau. I know that you and others have pointed out the low value of doing so, but I still have the 4 expiring in Feb and they cannot be used in Kyoto, and would be of even less value for 1-night stays in Osaka, which are the only other places we expect to be going. I abandoned my dubious strategy of trying to get upgraded with only one paid night at the Churhill and the PHV.

Instead of taking a cab, take the airport express to the airport. Under 30 mins from central to HKIA, they leave frequently too, under 15 minute intervals. A cab to the train station from GHHK. It is about 5 minutes with no traffic. You can also check in your bags in central, down town check in, and continue sight seeing until you need to take the train to the Airport.

Taking a cab to the airport, you run the risk of traffic, depending on time of departure.

Stayed here during the last week of May. Whilst I havent been in the property for abt 11 months, I was dissapointed to see the great Regency Club they used to have is no more!

The lounge has now been relocated to where the gym used to be (3rd floor) which means standard canapes instead of the freshly cooked snacks they had before...still not bad ... just standard now

That's horrible. That lounge was great

I was told that the lounge will eventually be moved to the top floor (37/F) and is now under construction.

I was told that the lounge will eventually be moved to the top floor (37/F) and is now under construction.

Any idea when it might be completed?

BTW I had a horrible stay at this property couple of weeks ago. Check in took 65 minutes and all the management was willing to do was to remove the "service" charge.

I received an email from the hotel manager after I gave them less than stellar mark on a follow up survey. I sent him an email back documenting what went wrong and no reply. Why bother replying to survey remarks if they don't want to resolve the underlying service issues?

On the contrary I received fabulous service from the newly opened Conrad next door. The stay couldn't have been better.

I will post review of these two properties when I have time to finish them up.

BTW I had a horrible stay at this property couple of weeks ago. Check in took 65 minuted and all the management was willing to do was to remove the "service" charge.

I will post review of these two properties when I have time to finish then up.

Hmmm...should I stay at the Conrad instead of the GH in Oct 2012? I am a Hyatt Diamond, and have confirmed a King Suite on pts...but I'm only a HH Gold, not sure if that changes anything at such a new property.

How does the location compare, for a first time visitor to Macau?

Thanks a lot!

Any idea when it might be completed?

I stayed there in March. Was told it takes 6 to 9 months to complete.

I stayed there in March. Was told it takes 6 to 9 months to complete.

Thanks. I was planning to go this Oct, but may put that on hold if the new lounge is not finished, as that seemed like one of the highpoints of the hotel.

Just wonder i booked with Grand Suite King in this hotel. Can i still use the 4 suite upgrade ? Thanks !

Hmmm...should I stay at the Conrad instead of the GH in Oct 2012? I am a Hyatt Diamond, and have confirmed a King Suite on pts...but I'm only a HH Gold, not sure if that changes anything at such a new property.

How does the location compare, for a first time visitor to Macau?



I should have write ups on both of the properties sometime next week. If you click that YouTube link on my signature, you can find my videos of the suites I had at both properties.

Without a doubt the Conrad was far more luxurious and it had one of the best executive lounges that I have seen.

Just wonder i booked with Grand Suite King in this hotel. Can i still use the 4 suite upgrade ? Thanks !

Since you already booked a suite, you can't use the Suite Upgrade since that would likely confirm you into the same suite. However, you can downgrade your reservation to a regular room, use the suite upgrade, and likely receive the same suite for less cost.

During the last month I've made two reservations at this property. Sure enough a couple weeks before arrival the nagative energy e-mail arrives always stating they are busy and my noted prefers such as non-smoke, king bed, high floor and possible upgrade may not be fulfilled. I thought some of those were a guarantee for Diamonds. Does this place even try or just send e-mails to damp any possible expectations? That being said I am onto the Conrad Macau for the teddy bear and duck.

I have a one-night stay in Sept...and due to a reservation mixup, they've confirmed a Grand Suite King for only 15K pts. This seems like a good value, and I don't want to cancel.

But the Conrad sounds very nice, and the Grand Club issues may not make the stay the best experience. I will book both for now, and then cancel as we get closer. The Conrad is only 20K pts + $80USD right now for my date.

Any recent experiences of club at the GH Macau (I am assuming it's still in the relocated area further to recent posts?)

I am trying to decide whether it's worth paying the (fairly reasonable) upgrade cost for club room - however our breakfast is already included in other rate so would only find value in the club for drinks and pre-dinner snacks - do they offer unlimited champagne? What is the food selection like? Enough to skip dinner?

Thanks to anyone who can offer some insight to help me decide....

Any recent experiences of club at the GH Macau (I am assuming it's still in the relocated area further to recent posts?)

I am trying to decide whether it's worth paying the (fairly reasonable) upgrade cost for club room - however our breakfast is already included in other rate so would only find value in the club for drinks and pre-dinner snacks - do they offer unlimited champagne? What is the food selection like? Enough to skip dinner?

Thanks to anyone who can offer some insight to help me decide....

I haven't been recently.

But most club lounges in Asia are good enough for dinner. And yes to the unlimited bubbly.

Hi everyone,

I'm looking to book a suite room for early next year at the GH Macau and I want to book the Grand Executive Suite.. Has anyone stayed in this suite room? I haven't really seen many pictures or reviews of this suite...

And the Grand Deluxe Suite lounge looks better than the Executive Suite lounge...

Any comments will be much appreciated :)

Cheers,

Hi everyone,

I'm looking to book a suite room for early next year at the GH Macau and I want to book the Grand Executive Suite.. Has anyone stayed in this suite room? I haven't really seen many pictures or reviews of this suite...

And the Grand Deluxe Suite lounge looks better than the Executive Suite lounge...

Any comments will be much appreciated :)

Cheers,

I stayed in an Executive Suite about 2 years ago using the confirmed suite upgrade. Excellent corner suite, very spacious living room with a huge L-shaped sofa, a round table which could be used for working/dining and there was enough space for them to fit a kitchenette or something but they didn't. The bedroom was smallish in comparison to the living room, there was also a standard walk in closet found in regular rooms and the bathroom was also huge, but didn't feature a glass wall which opened to bedroom/living room like the one found in regular rooms. Bathroom amenities were Chopard. The suite is located in the Grand Club tower and had an amazing view towards the Venetian/Cotai Strip, Cotai Dome, and the Airport.

Overall, very happy with the Suite.

Just returned from a 2 night stay. Was in a regular suite overlooking the Hard Rock and Venetian.

Room was very big. Nespresso machine and (good) loose-leaf tea in room. Closet was on the small side and to use it, had to slide the door in front of the TV.

Bathroom was nice and big, two sinks, big shower with rainfall head. Amenities were June Jacobs green tea and cucumber.

Paid $198/night--overall, very pleased with this hotel. Only weird thing is lack of seating in the lobby.

Hi,

How did you end up paying just $198 per night? Usually they run for $400+ a night, especially the suites.

The Grand Hyatt Deluxe Suites are nice in that they have a nice living room, but they aren't that interesting. I'm not sure about the Executive suites.

I have heard the Chairman Suite to be pretty amazing. A family friend held their children's wedding there and got to stay in the suite. The room looked palatial.

Cheers,

Hi,

How did you end up paying just $198 per night? Usually they run for $400+ a night, especially the suites.

The Grand Hyatt Deluxe Suites are nice in that they have a nice living room, but they aren't that interesting. I'm not sure about the Executive suites.

I have heard the Chairman Suite to be pretty amazing. A family friend held their children's wedding there and got to stay in the suite. The room looked palatial.

Cheers,

I booked it a few months ago and prepaid. Total with taxes was about $220/night. Agreed that the rooms are not that interesting, they would do well with some more paint or art on the walls.

Does anyone have any experience with a late checkout request here? I last stayed in this property as a lowly Plat and they would only extend my checkout til noon from the usual 11am.

Does anyone have any experience with a late checkout request here? I last stayed in this property as a lowly Plat and they would only extend my checkout til noon from the usual 11am.

I do not have any problem with a late check out. Most probably due to my Diamond status. Again, it does not hurt to ask and explain why you need the late check out (as long it is still reasonable; i.e. below 3 P.M).

Thinking of staying 3 nights here using a Diamond suite upgrade. The lowest rate I'm seeing is for a Grand Suite King. Does anyone know what type of suite would be assigned using the Diamond suite upgrade? Thanks.

Thinking of staying 3 nights here using a Diamond suite upgrade. The lowest rate I'm seeing is for a Grand Suite King. Does anyone know what type of suite would be assigned using the Diamond suite upgrade? Thanks.

Used a Suite upgrade here back in 2010 and was confirmed into a Grand Suite King but was assigned/further upgraded to a Grand Executive Suite King. Very nice and spacious suite.

Used a Suite upgrade here back in 2010 and was confirmed into a Grand Suite King but was assigned/further upgraded to a Grand Executive Suite King. Very nice and spacious suite.

Thanks. Was that confirmed at the time of booking, or only at check-in?

No matter what dates I look at, the rates start from the Grand Suite King rather than the standard Deluxe rooms. Maybe they hold the standard Deluxe rooms for allotment to groups. Even checking using GP points shows standard awards (which should be for the lowest room category) booking into a Grand Suite King.

Thinking of adding a 3-night stay here to our 8 nights at the Conrad HK (wanted to burn as many Hilton pts as possible before the devaluation), but the Grand Hyatt Macau gets some very mixed reviews on Tripadvisor (especially the relocated lounge) and not a lot of chatter here on FT.

Thanks. Was that confirmed at the time of booking, or only at check-in?

No matter what dates I look at, the rates start from the Grand Suite King rather than the standard Deluxe rooms. Maybe they hold the standard Deluxe rooms for allotment to groups. Even checking using GP points shows standard awards (which should be for the lowest room category) booking into a Grand Suite King.

Thinking of adding a 3-night stay here to our 8 nights at the Conrad HK (wanted to burn as many Hilton pts as possible before the devaluation), but the Grand Hyatt Macau gets some very mixed reviews on Tripadvisor (especially the relocated lounge) and not a lot of chatter here on FT.

The confirmed suite at the time of booking was the Grand Suite, then at check-in the FD staff told me that I had been further upgraded to a Grand Exec Suite. I haven't been back there since then so have only experienced the original club lounge which was excellent. I remembered reading somewhere that they had just opened a new lounge so perhaps the reviews on TA were mostly on the temporary lounge?