"How did it strike you on arrival?The all-glass lobby of the W Hong Kong transports travelers into an enchanted forest, with outsize insect sculptures, a textured Japanese “sand” wall, tree trunk-like columns, and rows of LED twig lights. The reception is set on the sixth floor, so you’ll ride a glass bubble lift, catching a glimpse of the fascinating shipping port (piled high with colorful cargo containers) along the way. The elevator opens into an enormous lounge-like room with lots of natural light and artwork that underscores the wonderland vibe. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Around the world, the W brand tends to attract music-and-cocktail-loving partygoers and fashion-forward millennials (the kind who mix a vintage Chanel bag with overalls), so we were a little surprised to see so many families at the Hong Kong location. As it turns out, the restaurants are extremely popular with locals, so the communal areas often see a mix of guests and neighborhood residents. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.W Hong Kong's 393 rooms and suites have two distinct aesthetics. Designed by Japanese firm GLAMOROUS, some are more floral and feminine (butterfly motifs and purple). Others are bolder and brighter—the work of Australia-based g+a group. We preferred the mod style of the g+a-designed rooms, so we requested this design and a harbor-facing Spectacular Room. We were pleasantly surprised by the 430 square feet and the comfortable window-side sofa where we could enjoy the views. The decor was pleasantly unexpected too—a tree-trunk-inspired illustration on the wall, olive-green bedspread, and open-concept bathroom. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The Hong Kong hotel comes equipped with signature king-size W beds (manufactured by Simmons) with a quilted pillow top and 400-thread-count linen. In other words, there should be nothing coming between you and a good night's sleep. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Every room at the W comes with a fully stocked bar (no mini bottles here), classy martini glasses, and a Munchie Box with American treats like Oreos and Pringles. Nodding to its loyal music lovers, this W's rooms also come with a wireless Bang & Olufsen speaker that syncs with your phone—play either your own mix or those curated by W’s dedicated music critic which you can find on Spotify. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The open-concept bathroom includes a smartly designed vanity, oversized mirrors, a stand alone bathtub (with a built-in wall TV), and a rain shower—plus the same terry-lined bathrobes and products as at the hotel’s Bliss spa. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Not only is the Wi-Fi fast and free (on the condition that you sign up to be a Starwood Preferred Guest member), but each room can be opened with Keyless entry (via the SPG app), in case you want to skip the whole check-in process. Room service: Worth it?If you're too exhausted to enjoy the high-voltage vibes and house-aged cocktails at WOOBAR or the impressive buffet at KITCHEN, then a quiet dinner is a call away 24-7. The menu skips from Chinese staples (from lauded restaurant Sing Yin Chinese) to sliders, seafood laksa and more. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?The concierge team has an appointed “W insider” named Yvonne, who really knows her stuff. She is quick to recommend great bars and restaurants, as well as oft-overlooked museums and temples. Yvonne will also help guests riding the metro figure out how to navigate the labyrinthine Elements mall (connected to the hotel). Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.On the top floor, you’ll find an open-air WET DECK and the highest outdoor pool in Hong Kong. The pool is about 20 meters long (good for lap swimming), and comes flanked by a Jacuzzi and bar. In the summertime, the deck swells with sun-soaked partygoers attending monthly DJ-ed blowouts. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?If you’re working in the ICC (the tallest building in Hong Kong) or love to shop, then this location in West Kowloon might be the perfect spot for you. Those aiming to spend their time visiting the cultural sites in Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, or the outlying islands might find the neighborhood (or lack thereof) overly commercial. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Bold and contemporary, W Hong Kong packs a ton of personality into each of its 393 rooms. We’d recommend the hotel for anyone who loves food, drinks, and a creative atmosphere." - Kate Springer
