I am an old Hong Kong girl. I “grew up” there, spending my salad years in my 20’s and 30’s from 1987 to 1994 living all over Mid-Levels – Robinson Road, Po Shan Road, Macdonnell Road, Old Peak Road. I lived in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel for 6 weeks at while point while we fixed up our new flat, and had countless lunches, dinners and drinks at the Captain’s Bar and Pierro. I was a regular at the grand old Peninsula Hotel which was a fun excursion over to Kowloon from Hong Kong Island.
I lived in Hong Kong during the waning years of the British Empire, and I loved the old colony. Hong Kong has changed quite a bit since then, in many ways both subtle and superficial, and I still feel very much at home there. I went back recently to do an in-depth study of the hotels including my old favorites as well as the newest properties. Here are my findings…
Ritz-Carlton
As the tallest hotel in the world, the new Ritz-Carlton is all about the views. The property boasts chic contemporary interior design, and its restaurants really have the WOW factor, with cool decor and those spectacular views complementing the cuisine.
Rooms
312 rooms on floors 106-117.
Views
Wow! Stunning views across Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour from all floors.
Location
Probably the hotel’s only weak point – it is located in a fairly sterile area with few nearby amenities, so a car is needed to get to the “real” Hong Kong. The area is developing rapidly and is more popular with mainland Chinese who value newness and modernity.
Decor
Sleek, contemporary and clean design is present throughout the hotel, across rooms, public areas and dining.
Service
Impeccable.
The Peninsula
The grande dame of Hong Kong hotels, this colonial classic sits in the heart of Kowloon making it perfect for those who want to be at the heart of the action. The hotel’s legendary afternoon tea is on practically every tourist’s itinerary so the lobby is packed every day.
Rooms
300 rooms on floors 2-6 and 17-27.
Views
Excellent views of Hong Kong island and Victoria Harbour.
Location
Right in the middle of Kowloon with all the hustle & bustle that entails. Seconds away from shops, the harbour, and the Star Ferry.
Decor
Classic traditional Asian.
Service
Impeccable.
Upper House
This stylish boutique property is located close to the Central area. Its contemporary minimalist design attracts a young, hip, non-touristy crowd, and the property offers great views of the harbour. Our preferred option for younger clients wanting a more chic, intimate Hong Kong experience.
Rooms
117 rooms on floors 38-49.
Views
Good views of the Central and Harbour areas, though some rooms have views restricted by neighbouring buildings.
Location
Around 10 minutes’ walk or a short taxi hop to the Central area.
Decor
Sleek, modern & contemporary.
Service
Impeccable.
Mandarin Oriental
One of the classic Hong Kong hotels, located bang in the middle of the Central district of Hong Kong Island. Boasts great views over the island and is a popular meeting spot for visitors and locals alike. With over 500 rooms, it’s the city’s largest luxury hotel.
Rooms
501 rooms on floors 5-24.
Views
Great views of the harbour and Kowloon.
Location
Perfect location for anyone wanting to experience Hong Kong Island.
Decor
Traditional Asian.
Service
Impeccable.
Landmark Mandarin Oriental
The newer of the two Mandarins is a chic, contemporary boutique hotel in the Central area. No views, but the cool, minimalist design and handy location more than make up for it, and it’s quieter than most Hong Kong properties.
Rooms
113 rooms on floors 8-16.
Views
None – unless the neighbouring skyscrapers are your thing!
Location
Perfect location for anyone wanting to experience Hong Kong Island.
Decor
Sleek, modern & contemporary.
Service
Impeccable.
Four Seasons
A classic Four Seasons property with the quality of service, rooms and dining you would expect. Located a short walk from Central, right on the harbour with stunning views from all levels, including the spectacular infinity pool. Great hotel for business or leisure.
Rooms
399 rooms on floors 9-45
Views
Fantastic views of Kowloon and the harbour.
Location
5 minutes’ walk to Central, right on the harbour, with shopping malls adjacent.
Decor
Mix of traditional Asian and contemporary chic.
Service
Impeccable.