I stayed at the GH HK a couple of weeks ago, even though I live in HK. Well, I needed an extra night for the 15,000-point promo, so I paid for a little urban retreat. (good extra revenue for Hyatt if enough of cases like this!)

Took a tour of the Plateau room and facilities. They had a lot of staff on hand to show the constant stream of people touring the new facilities. I guess their extensive marketing (print ads, joint promos, direct mail, etc.) is drawing people in.

The Plateau room is tiny and impractical for business guests. Everything is low: futon for bed, low coffee table and chairs. Tiny sleeping area; a small treatment area with a sink and chair that can be used for an in-room massage or manicure/pedicure (total waste of what little precious space there is). Best feature is the serene stone soaking tub with a clear window. (But they use the same awful toiletries as the rest of the hotel.) The staff conceded that these rooms are not for everyone. I think if you don't mind their new concept - a tiny room that's more style than substance - geared toward people who'd like an urban spa retreat, you may want to check it out. However, if I wanted a spa retreat, I'd stay at a real spa resort with much more space and better decor, in Thailand or Bali. Even Westin Macau would be a better choice.

The new pool is nice, but there's a major flaw. All the lounge chairs are lined up close to one another, with no umbrellas in between to provide shade. The only shades are provided by the dining tables and chairs in the outdoor food area.

The new gym looks great, with a good range of latest high tech-looking equipment. However, the locker room is not located next to the gym. Rather, it is on the way to and close by the pool. You have to walk through the little outdoor area where breakfasts are served to Plateau guests. (I believe breakfasts are included, but Plateau guests are not entitled to use the Grand Club lounge.)

I can't imagine the Plateau rooms would be a success. Some may opt for it for the novelty, but I doubt they'll get many repeat business.