Marriott does many things right but one thing that always gets me is how W can be placed in its Luxury category together with St Regis and The Ritz Carlton of the world. There is not one W that I have stayed in which exudes any feel of real luxury both in its hardware and software i.e. service. The W Hong Kong is no exception, it just feels meh….
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the doorman to a funky and loud lobby before an elevator whisked us up to the reception level. The elevator itself was pretty cool but once we got to the reception level, it was a simply a crowded madhouse.
We used one of my Suite Night Awards here so we had a one bedroom suite. Very large indeed but everything in the room felt cheap and worn. The journey to the room itself though was fun, it was like whimsical journey through Harry Potter land!
The Suite itself was well appointed and had that modern and funky look but things just were not quite right. For example, the desk area was too dark for any work to be done and there is a white microwave oven that sticks out like a sore thumb in the middle of the living area.
If there is one thing about the W that is awesome, it is the very well equipped fitness centre and rooftop pool that comes with quite a view!
Breakfast at the main restaurant could not be more chaotic. It has a great spread but there is just no way anyone could sit and enjoy a leisurely and quiet breakfast.
In a nutshell,
Pros:
- Stunning Views and Ambiance: The hotel’s location in West Kowloon offers breathtaking harbor views, especially from higher floors and the 76th-floor rooftop pool, creating a memorable and luxurious atmosphere.
- Spacious, Stylish Rooms: Rooms are generously sized for Hong Kong standards, with modern decor split between feminine floral designs and bold, vibrant aesthetics, plus thoughtful touches like personalized Coca-Cola bottles.
- Prime Location: Connected to Elements Mall and Kowloon MTR, it provides easy access to shopping, dining, and transport, making it convenient for exploring the city or traveling to the airport.
Cons:
- Service Inconsistencies: While some staff interactions were warm, others felt transactional, with slow check-in processes and unfulfilled requests (e.g., extra slippers), detracting from the luxury experience.
- Costly Add-Ons: Breakfast and other amenities come with steep prices—HK$300+ for breakfast isn’t covered by standard rates, which may feel excessive given the hotel’s high room cost.
- Crowded Facilities: The rooftop pool and gym can get busy, especially during peak times, limiting relaxation and usability for guests seeking a tranquil escape.
Overall, the W Hong Kong blends chic design and a unbeatable location with a few hiccups in service and value. It’s ideal for those prioritizing style and convenience, but budget-conscious travelers or those expecting flawless service might find it falls short.
