When you think of Hong Kong, it probably doesn’t immediately pop into your mind that the city is full of great swimming pools. But the fact is, it is. From a hotel pool on the rooftop of the world’s highest skyscraper to a natural infinity pond on a mountainside, Hong Kong is full of gorgeous watery escapes.
The city has a total of 45 public pools, and most of them are incredibly beautiful. But with a staff shortage due to a lifeguards’ strike, some have had to close during the summer months. Others have had to close lanes and facilities reserved for swimming instruction due to a lack of lifeguards, and this has left some swimmers fearing that classes may be cancelled in the future.
Swimming is not only a great workout, but it is also an excellent form of relaxation. Not only does it reduce stress, but it can also improve depression and other mental health issues. It can even boost energy levels, and studies have shown that swimming three times a week can lead to weight loss. So, if you’re looking to add more swimming to your workout routine, here are some of the best hongkong pools to swim in this summer.
Located on the 118th floor of the International Commerce Center in downtown Hong Kong, this pool at the Ritz Carlton is an experience all its own. The sleek indoor pool boasts floor to ceiling windows, mirrored ceilings, and LED walls that showcase the illusion of coral reefs. And when you’re done swimming, grab a drink at the bar/cafe nearby and sit by the pool to take in the majestic views of Victoria Harbour from another vantage point.
The pool at this five-star property is a must-see when visiting Hong Kong, and it’s even a good option for non-hotel guests who are keen to get in the water. The pool is surrounded by lush greenery, and there’s an infinity edge that looks over the dazzling cityscape below. And when you’re not lounging by the pool, head to the spa for a range of relaxing treatments, including yoga and tai chi.
Currently, public lifeguards are classified as artisans on the civil service pay scale, and their salaries start at HK$17,675 per month, while those at private swimming pools in residential buildings and hotels usually offer much more, with starting salaries of up to HK$24,000. The union has been calling for a revamp of the salary structure and a two-year career path to attract new staff members. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department says it is taking measures to address the issue, such as increasing the salary of seasonal lifeguards and recruiting them on two-year contracts. In addition, it has been introducing measures to reduce the workload of existing lifeguards. These include limiting the number of people they supervise at a time to prevent overcrowding and introducing a new lane management system for some pools. This allows them to provide faster and more efficient assistance to swimmers.