The Fleming
"How did it strike you on arrival?The impression actually begins outside, with a glimpse of the hotel’s striking retro neon sign. Formerly a staid business hotel, the Fleming is fresh off a dramatic high-design makeover inspired by Hong Kong’s famous Star Ferry. A bright red elevator that feels like the hull of a boat transports guests to a nautical lobby anchored by a wall of vintage Hong Kong mailboxes. Nice. What’s the crowd like?The hotel still pulls a primarily business crowd thanks to its location near the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, but the new design will likely attract high-level professionals from creative industries and stylish leisure travelers who appreciate great design. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Rooms are divided by four types: Small, Medium, Large and Extra Large. We chose the Medium, which is about 270 square feet. It’s certainly not the biggest room in town but the intelligent layout makes it feel larger than it is. Surveying the compact room, there are interesting details at every glance, from retro brass light fixtures to leather drapes, a blue-and-white striped rug, and contemporary Hong Kong street photography. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Every room comes with a Queen-size bed and comfy mattress, goose-down duvet, crisp white linens, and fluffy pillows. Our only complaint? That the bed’s not a king. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?It seems like The Fleming has thought of every single detail. There’s a minibar stocked with high-quality local beers and snacks, an Apple TV, and an old-school British umbrella that looks so cool, you’ll probably want to take it home with you. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Awash in deep green tiles and brass fixtures, the Art Deco-styled bathroom includes a compact rain shower with decent (but not amazing) pressure. The highlights were the customized shower gels and shampoos, which pay tribute to Chinese Traditional Medicine apothecaries. But instead of intensely herbal scents, you can expect warming and invigorating combinations, such as sandalwood, eucalyptus and amber. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?The Wi-Fi is strong and free—another selling point. Room service: Worth it?The Fleming does not provide room service, but the minibar’s always stocked with healthy snacks and instant noodles. Luckily, you’re on the doorstep of one of Hong Kong’s top food districts. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?At Osteria Marzia, the bartender has such high standards that he made us a negroni, wasn’t happy with it, and started again from scratch. Guest relations manager Andre also provided a handful of great local recommendations when we asked about restaurants and bars. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.You’ll enjoy complimentary breakfast buffet every morning at the ground-floor restaurant Osteria Marzia. It’s not your typical hotel buffet, focusing instead on European-style quiche, avocado, fresh breads, fruits and yogurts. If the high-quality breakfast and excellent coffee is any indication, you’ll likely want to visit the restaurant for dinner one evening. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?The Star Ferry reimagined as a cutting-edge design hotel Bottom line: worth it, and why?Detail oriented and welcoming" - Kate Springer
