The Pen opened it doors in December 1928. Since then it has witnessed Hong Kong's changing fortunes and been host to everyone from Japanese troops in WWII to the glitterati of the film world, politicians and royalty. In 1994 they built its spanking new tower and in 1997 when the colony was ceded to China, they partied 'til dawn in its ball room. Its fleet of green Rolls Royce pay homage to an earlier age of opulence and elegance as do its box-hatted bell boys and its sweeping staircase. Those who book into The Peninsula Suite on the 26^th floor have easy access to the helipad and a butler service and a Rolls Royce on standby for their exclusive use 24 hours a day.