Hong Kong
Once seen, never forgotten, Hong Kong’s skyline, bisected by its famous harbour, is as breathtaking as Manhattan’s. The best vantage point is Victoria Peak, reached by the charmingly old-fashioned Peak Tram, hauled up at a dizzy angle by a single cable. Come here on a clear day and drink in the panorama. Just a collection of fishing villages when the British arrived in 1842, by the time Hong Kong was handed back to China in 1997 it had expanded to include Kowloon and the New Territories and become one of the world’s most densely populated cities. Its combination of eastern and western cultures and light regulation made it one of Asia’s major commercial centres, as well as a top tourist destination.
Its natural harbour at the gateway to China made it a key trading port. Its name, which translates as ‘fragrant harbour’, comes from the scent of the wood and incense that used to be traded here. Trade still makes Hong Kong tick, but the city’s most popular activity now seems to be shopping. You can buy anything here from authentic Chinese cooking ingredients at the Night Market to the latest electronic gadget or chic designer clothes in one of the many glitzy new shopping malls.
Almost all the hotels, many in modern high-rises, are spotlessly clean with first-class service and facilities. Before you book, think about where you want to be: in the cut and thrust of Hong Kong Island, the city’s financial centre, or on the more intensely Chinese Kowloon side with its spectacular views. Cross the harbour on a Star Ferry, a much loved Hong Kong institution, and don’t miss an excursion out to Stanley, a colonial-style refuge from the bustle of the city, with its famous market. The best months to visit Hong Kong are September, October and November, when the sun shines but cool breezes keep the temperature comfortable.
The best hotels in Hong Kong
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East
Hong Kong (Island East)
Stylish, comfortable, well-designed business hotel in redeveloped Quarry Bay. Equipped with all the necessary mod cons and decorated to evoke the ying and the yang, this is the perfect place to enjoy eastern sophistication.
345 rooms from $1950Business meetingsBusiness HotelDesigner - Uniquely designed interiors.Views - Great views from hotelRecommended by - Kiwi Collection -
Bishop Lei International House
Hong Kong (Mid - Levels)
Unbeatable value for attractive accommodation and facilities in a quieter and more secluded setting. Fantastic harbour views and just walking distance from the commercial downtown.
63 rooms from $950 -
Peninsula
Hong Kong (Kowlon)
A legendary hotel with all the colonial elegance and allure of a bygone era. Fantastic harbour facing views from glamorous rooms, afternoon tea, and a fantastic selection of world-wide cuisine. The ultimate city break steeped in old world nostalgia.
300 rooms from $797City StyleLively - Hip and happening.SpaSwimming Pool - Indoor/outdoor -
Upper House
Hong Kong (Pacific Place)
A uniquely, and superbly, designed new hotel that combines the best of boutique with typically giant Asian luxury. Huge stylish bedrooms and bathrooms with ceiling to floor windows and all the mod cons craved for by technology junkies. A refreshing city stay.
117 rooms from $581City StyleViews - Great views from hotelLively - Hip and happening. -
Four Seasons Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Fantastically modern hotel on the waterfront. Rooms with state-of-the-art technology vary between sleek Western style, with silk-panelled walls and marble-floored entry foyers, and contemporary Chinese style. It caters for business, weddings, and leisure.
345 rooms from $581City StyleFamiliesViews - Great views from hotelLocal markets - Good for local colour. -
Landmark Mandarin Oriental
Hong Kong (The Landmark, Central)
Smart and luxurious member of the Mandarin Oriental group with a knock-out location for hitting the shops. Beautiful modernist decoration, Michelin-starred restaurant, fantastic spa.
113 rooms from $555Restaurant - Michelin-starred.City StyleLively - Hip and happening.Spa -
Mira
Hong Kong (Kowlon)
An exceptionally modern hotel with fantastic facilities - Michelin-starred restaurant, electrifying open-air lounge bar, and underground spa. A hotel master-planned for rest and relaxation, and in style.
492 rooms from $325Restaurant - Michelin-starred dining.GourmetCity StyleFoodies -
W Hong Kong
Hong Kong (Kowloon Station)
Hip hotel with stylish rooms and a spectacular rooftop infinity pool. Panoramic views of the city, fantastic gourmet cuisine, and unrivalled spa and fitness facilities.
197 rooms from $318City StyleSpaSwimming Pool - Indoor/outdoorLocal markets - Good for local colour. -
Langham Place
Hong Kong (Kowloon)
Glossy Langham hotel in an earthy, authentic Chinese neighbourhood. Contemporary but supremely elegant in style - rich wooden furniture, neutral tones, white linens. Fantastic spa, roof top pool, and even a Chinese art collection.
665 rooms from $285City StyleLively - Hip and happening.Views - Great views from hotelSwimming Pool - Indoor/outdoorRecommended by - Tablet -
Mandarin Oriental
Hong Kong
This Hong Kong icon, famous for its impeccable service, has been given a super revamp. Its classic traditionalism now has contemporary comforts to match. State of the art bedrooms and bathrooms parallel the spectacle from the roof top bar and delight of the restaurants.
503 rooms from $220City StyleLively - Hip and happening.SpaSwimming Pool - Indoor/outdoor -
Eaton
Hong Kong (Kowloon)
Situated in Hong Kong's famous "Golden Mile" shopping and commercial district. This hotel offeres convenient, comfortable fun at a reasonable price. Modern decoration, fantastic restaurants, as well as business, fitness, and wedding facilities.
434 rooms from $193 -
Butterfly on Prat
Hong Kong (Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowlon)
Colourful, stylish decoration and thoughtful details are highlights at this upbeat hotel. Glossy rooms and suites in oranges and greens. A great place to stay in the heart of the Tsim Sha Tsui area close to all the shopping and tourist attractions.
122 rooms from $176City StyleSights nearby - Well located for major sights.
