The unique design of this InterContinental hotel's executive lounge is truly a lifesaver for introverts.

This InterContinental's lounge is quite interesting. While the space isn't particularly large and seating is limited, it's cleverly divided into three sections. The entrance features a sofa seating area for socializing, followed by a bar counter for drinks. What stands out is the row of single chairs by the window facing outward, each with its own small table and spaced apart - a design I've never seen before in social/dining-oriented executive lounges, making it exceptionally friendly for socially anxious introverts or solo travelers. I tried sitting there and found it quite comfortable. Further inside is the dining area with a small buffet counter. During afternoon tea, offerings were sparse and I was the only guest. Initially I thought this lounge would be as quiet as other InterContinental properties, but come happy hour, people flooded in like a dam had burst, quickly filling nearly all seats. This revealed a design flaw in the buffet area - the passage between dessert and hot food stations only allows single file movement with space for just three people side by side, causing serious congestion. I suspect there aren't that many InterContinental members with executive benefits or executive room guests - they must have sold many lounge-inclusive packages. Happy hour drinks were basic. The dessert selection was decent with two full-sized cakes as centerpieces, but hot dishes were disappointing - just three mediocre options: duck breast with snow peas, heavily marinated beef (I suspect duck) with zucchini, and baby bok choy. Cold dishes included a mushroom salad and some fried chicken nuggets. The variety was limited and flavors underwhelming, falling short of InterContinental standards.