Arrival Experience
Arrived via taxi and was promptly greeted and taken to the Club Lounge on level 116 for a welcome drink while my check-in materials were finalized. About 10 minutes was shown to the room, club concierge insisted on pulling my roll-on and I carried my briefcase.
Location
While the hotel is located in Kowloon atop the International Commerce Center and Elements mall I didn't find the location to be a drawback. The hotel has indoor, air conditioned access to both the MTR and Airport express (5-10 minute walk from 9th floor) and provides a sedan service for Club guests on a complimentary basis. There is a lot of building in the area including the high speed rail link to Guangzhou and Shenzen and it seems there will be more nearby the hotel in a few years.
Club Deluxe Harbour Island Room
Well laid out and tastefully appointed Club Deluxe Harbour Island room. I loved the large desktop area with the comfortable high back chair. The view was stunning and I enjoyed sitting on the window seat and watching the harbour activity from my room. The iPod Classic and JBL dock was a nice touch, there are close to 2500 songs of many genres and artists to enjoy I'm sure you'll find some of your favorites.
Bathroom was also very nice although it would have been nice to also have a TV integrated in the mirror rather than in the tub area. Shower had great pressure and I enjoyed the Asprey amenities. Was surprised they did not provide Bulgari or Acqua di Parma amenities, as is typical in suites and club rooms. Interestingly enough, my club room at the Ritz-Carlton Beijing had the standard Ritz-Carlton amenities too so perhaps it's different in the Asian properties.
Service
It seems to me the staff was on top of their game and took interest in getting to know me and always greeted me by name throughout the entire stay. Club manager Herve was excellent and it shows through the rest of the club staff.
I made use of the hotel sedan provided to club guests free of charge for transportation in the Kowloon area (from the hotel only) which was a great service. Was hoping to get to use the Rolls but got stuck with the S-Class on both occasions.
Fitness Center, Pool, and Spa
Overall very impressed with the fitness center. Technogym equipment with integrated LCD monitors that not only offered the usual TV programing but also offered internet access and a suite of games (matching, sudoku, and many others). The hotel also provides Vitamin Water free of charge which I am yet to see at another RC property.
Swimming pool was great, made use of this several times during my stay. Only had to share the pool on one occasion, otherwise it doesn't seem to get much use especially in the evening hours. There is a neat system of LCD panels that projects Caribbean paradise and Hong Kong skyline images. The outdoor jacuzzi was fun to use at night, there is also an indoor jacuzzi and cold plunge pool.
The Spa is located on the 116th floor adjacent to the Club lounge. I did not avail myself to the spa services but did have a peak at one of the treatments rooms and relaxation areas.
Overall a great stay and will definitely be back next time I am in Hong Kong.
Pics:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/7366707...7630147981782/