Hong Kong is one of my favourite destinations. In the past I frequently visited to take part in the annual food and wine festival. However, until recently, I had never experienced the impressive new international airport on beautiful Lantau Island. I arrived, booked into the nearby Sky City Marriott Hotel and took the 30-minute fast train to Kowloon — a shoppers' and foodies' paradise.

Fashion labels beckoned but so did the new styles of food offered. Fresh foods and salads were attractively showcased. According to Winny Mui, Sky City Marriott's communications manager, people are becoming much more discerning about what they eat.

Traditionally celebratory Moon Cakes were filled with bean paste and egg yolk. Now tempting variations are sold including mini moon cakes, low sugar and low fat varieties and coffee moon cakes.

There are more vegetarian restaurants and more cooking at home. Organic foods are a popular choice. Japanese food is trendy because Japan is considered to have very strict food and hygiene laws. Milk from Hokkaido (northern Japan) is fashionable, especially in Hokkaido lattes.

Marriott executive chef Ricky Wu has introduced several main course dishes that include fruit. As the hotel is close to Disneyland and attracts families, he offers hands-on cooking classes for kids, as well as a variety of classes designed for adults. In another promotion, guests are encouraged to vote for the 'hottest chef in town' — three chefs cook Thai, Indian and Sechwan. 

Hong Kong is nirvana for food lovers — the world on a plate.

Features:

• Sky City Marriott has a five star rating and offers oversized rooms and suites with sea or golf course views.
• Wired and wireless internet access in all rooms and suites.
• Great for business people or for families looking for a hotel near Hong Kong Disneyland — just 20 minutes away.
• Enjoy the 24-hour gym and 27-metre indoor swimming pool.
• A selection of four top-rating restaurants.

For more information and bookings visit: www.marriott.com/hkgap