Arrival/Check-In: My first arrival at the hotel was early in the morning, well before normal check-in time. I left my bags with the front desk and hustled through a day of meetings. My second arrival finally gave me the chance to learn my surroundings. On the outside, the property has a modern feel, with lots of large windows, and is surrounded by a busy Kowloon shopping district. However, once you’re inside, the charm of the renowned Langham is in full effect, with arched ceilings, cream marble floor and chandeliers leading you to the front desk in the back of the lobby. Just a few people were in front of me; and I was quickly checked in, introduced to the club amenities and promised my bags would be delivered to my room shortly.

Guest Quarters: Walking into my grand room, I immediately felt comfortable in the quiet and charming space. The room was not overly spacious, with the king-sized bed dominating it, but floor-to-ceiling windows and incredible lighting gave the space an open feeling. I am a stickler when it comes to lighting, and the lighting options were wonderful — fresh light from the windows, bedside lamps for reading and full ceiling ambience lighting that was bright but not obtrusive. A large, flat-screen television sat across from the bed, and a decent-sized glass desk facing the windows was perfect for getting some work done. Extra electrical outlets by the desk made it convenient to plug in multiple devices; the WiFi was not complimentary in the room, but the price was fair and the connection speedy.

The bathroom continued the great lighting theme. Bright lights surrounded the large mirror over the single sink. Although the counter’s unique curved marble design made it easier to get close to the mirror, it left little countertop storage space. The glass-encased shower provided great water pressure and my favorite Chuan Spa products with a unique scent that is light and perfect for both genders. My favorite part of the bathroom was the raised tub; walking up the three marble steps, I felt like royalty, and sinking into the large tub was relaxing after a day of meetings. Wooden shutters opened up to a view of the bedroom and television.

Services/Amenities: It was a delight to have guest access to The Langham Club. The chic and modern club is designed so the business traveler can eat in comfort, get important work done and relax in an ultra-cool environment. The Butler’s Pantry offers a wonderful breakfast with small or large table options in The Dining Room. I used this room, along with The Lounge, every morning to get my coffee and toast, use the free WiFi and have a short breakfast meeting.

The Health Club was impressive. Located on the 15th floor and open 24 hours a day, the two-story gym felt comfortable with bright lighting, warm wood floors and open space. Cardio equipment was upstairs, with plenty of machines for the morning rush.

The Experience: The Langham, Hong Kong is a perfect central base for any traveler with its charming décor, helpful staff and great club level. The hotel is located near upscale shopping and important transportation networks. I easily walked to the MTR, which connects to most major business areas in Kowloon and into urban Hong Kong Island.

GT CHECKLIST

[checklist]
[item check=yes]Doorman/valet[/item]
[item check=yes]Less than 10 minutes for check-in[/item]
[item check=yes]Separate tub and shower[/item]
[item]Large vanity[/item]
[item check=yes]High-quality towels[/item]
[item check=yes]Powerful, unattached hair dryer[/item]
[item check=yes]High-quality bed linens[/item]
[item check=yes]Large, flat-screen television[/item]
[item check=yes]Large desk with convenient outlets[/item]
[item check=yes]Large, complimentary laptop safe[/item]
[item]Complimentary in-room WiFi[/item]
[item]Complimentary bottled water[/item]
[item check=yes]Stocked minibar[/item]
[item check=yes]Ample lighting[/item]
[item check=yes]In-room coffeemaker[/item]
[item check=yes]Iron and ironing board[/item]
[item check=yes]On-site restaurant[/item]
[item check=yes]24-hour room service[/item]
[item check=yes]24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center[/item]
[item check=yes]Turn-down service[/item]
[/checklist]

The Langham, Hong Kong

8 Peking Road
Tsimshatsui, Kowloon
Hong Kong
tel 852 2375 1133
langhamhotels.com