Hi everyone; want to first thank you all for your helpful feedback!!! I'm taking notes of your helpful tips.
Fully understood the arrangement at HKG now. I think there might have been some segregation back during the peak of COVID where mainland China flights are placed in certain parts of the terminal. I can understand that would no longer be the case these days. I did structure my layover long enough to fully enjoy the amenities of the lounge; can't wait.