Brought by Airport Dimensions, SSP and Travel Food Services, Kyra Lounge opened off Terminal 1’s central concourse on July 2, and the first thing you need to know is that it’s beautiful. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light, and offer panoramic views of aircraft and mountains, the calming colour scheme moves from warm beige through to dark green helping travellers relax and recharge, and the lighting is simply sublime.
“Kyra, in its purest translation, means beam of light,” opens Lauren Burrill, Global Marketing Director at Airport Dimensions. “We talked a lot about the daily cycle of the sun with our Hong Kong-based design partners at Studio 5. In the dining area, where you come to refresh and refuel, the lighting replicates the morning sun as it breaks through the clouds. As you move to the centre of the space, to the bar, we tried to capture the idea of the bright midday sun – this is where you’ll always find a buzz. In the relaxation zone, meanwhile, you’ll notice the light changes; you head into a kind of evening – dusk, where it’s super-cosy and warm.”
Prioritising a calming pre-flight experience, the lounge combines a dedicated relaxation area with productivity zones, including a soundproof booth. The F&B component is equally diverse. “In catering to a wide audience, we’ve set out to bring locality, as well as recognisable international dishes,” Lauren says. Passengers can take their pick from a wide range of local dishes – classic congee, Cantonese dim sum and Hong Kong street food – or enjoy Western favourites, including a hearty baked macaroni cheese and a light couscous salad. At the well-stocked bar, delicious mocktails and cocktails (try botanical-infused Fragrant Harbour) have been designed specifically for Kyra Lounge.
Spanning 744 square metres with space for 150 passengers, Krya Lounge is included as part of the Priority Pass and LoungeKey networks. It’s also open to all Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) travellers through the purchase of entry online or at the lounge – expect to pay HK$600 for three hours. To find out more, visit www.airportdimensions.com. [PHOTOS BY Kayli Liebenberg.]
SOLAR FUTURE MAINTENANCE SERVICE
Solar Future has been installing Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems across Hong Kong since 2020, and the team also provides an annual maintenance service ensuring both structural and electrical safety. Why is annual servicing important? Firstly, it is an offence punishable by fine or even imprisonment to have a solar system that is unsafe. Secondly, if you want your solar system to work optimally, annual maintenance is a must.
Prioritising efficiency and affordability, Solar Future services installations by area, and this is where you come in. If you have friends or neighbours in your area, who are looking for an annual service provider, ask them to contact Solar Future and quote your name to receive a discount on your maintenance for this year. Hong Kong is experiencing a record number of typhoons this year, so now’s the time to get your system checked out. To find out more, visit www.solarfuture.hk. [PHOTO COURTESY OF Solar Future.]
SMART SECURITY SCREENING AT HKIA
In a bid to enhance passenger experience and improve operational efficiency, the Airport Authority Hong Kong is launching the world’s first smart security screening system at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). Fifty channels and 32 full-body scanners will be rolled out gradually across the entire airport: phase 1 was launched at the South and North Departure halls in Terminal 1 in July.
Thanks to 3D and 360-degree CT-based X-ray scanning technology, passengers will not be required to take out their electronic devices, liquids, aerosols, or gels from their carry-on luggage when passing through immigration. The smart security screening system also includes auto tray recirculation, in-built tray sterilisation and automatic alerts for uncollected items on the tray. Meanwhile, passengers who fail to clear the metal detector will be directed to a new full-body scanner which can accurately locate any prohibited items, while reducing the need for physical searches. The upgrades are expected to increase operational performance by 20%. To find out more, visit www.hongkongairport.com. [PHOTO COURTESY OF HKIA.]
SUMMER FUN IN DISCOVERY BAY
DB Summer Splashtopia is yours to enjoy until September 1. Open daily from 10am to 1.30pm and 2.30pm to 6pm on Tai Pak Wan, it’s co-organised by Kiztopia and billed as Hong Kong’s biggest inflatable beach carnival. Expect nine game zones packed with giant inflatables, including a 10-metre slide. There are special discounts for group bookings: Buddy Bundle (1 adult, 1 child) HK$258 weekdays, HK$328 weekends; Family Bundle (2 adults, 1 child or 1 adult, 2 children) HK$318 weekdays, HK$388 weekends. Register at Klook.
While in DB, fans of Shenzhen-based graffiti artist Ceet Fouad can pick up limited-edition gifts emblazoned with his signature “Chicanos” through September 1 at the Concierge in DB Plaza. All you need is proof of same-day electronic spending (a maximum of two receipts from different DB merchants). Spend HK$600 to redeem a tote bag, or HK$1,000 for a folding umbrella. Fouad’s vibrant murals can be found in cities across the globe and also, of course, in DB. [PHOTO BY Sarin Ale.]