"How did it strike you on arrival?Hotel Jen Hong Kong is located in the gentrifying district of Shek Tong Tsui in Hong Kong Island—about three metro stops west of Central. The lobby space is cool and neutral with pops of color. Off to the right, there’s a modern bar where guests can hop on the Wi-Fi and relax with a beer or meet up with friends for afternoon tea. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Positioned as the Shangri-La’s hip younger sister, Hotel Jen attracts remote workers and urbanites who appreciate playful design and up-and-coming neighborhoods. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Starting at a snug 260 square feet, the wood-paneled rooms are tidy and contemporary. We were drawn to the convenient work station and window seat looking out on the harbor. If you prefer a larger space, upgrade to the 540-square-foot Club Suite. The extra inches mean a walk-in closet, separate living room, and a kitchenette with a microwave and full-size fridge. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The Shangri-La brand bed setup is a Simmons queen mattress, goose down duvet, fluffy pillows and 300-thread-count linens. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?We loved the convenient "One Bag Laundry" concept—an affordable set price for everything you can fit in the bag. Whatever's in the bag returns the next day washed and folded. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The standard rooms include a shower, tub and simple white vanity. In the suites, bathrooms that overlook the harbor are equipped with double vanities, a separate bathtub, and a walk-in shower. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is free as can be. Hotel Jen also provides convenient bedside charging ports and various mobile charging stations around the hotel's common spaces. Room service: Worth it?There’s a short menu for in-room dining covering Western, Malaysian and Singaporean. Just be careful to order within the relatively tight window of 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. daily. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Definitely venture to the rooftop before your stay comes to an end—the lap pool sits parallel to Victoria Harbour on the 29th floor. On the same level, there's a 24-hour fitness center that's compact but kitted out cardio machines facing the water. Those staying in a Club room will also want to spend time in the lounge on the 28th floor, where complimentary breakfast, snacks, free laundry pressing, cocktails, and panoramic harbor views are among the amenities. For dining, there is Café Malacca, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended Malaysian and Singaporean restaurant that specializes in casual hawker-style dishes. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?We were pleasantly surprised by the rooftop pool and contemporary design—both made us look forward to returning at the end of each day. Bottom line: worth it, and why?A solid option for those seeking great value, Hotel Jen delivers modern interiors, harbor views, and a great location right by the MTR." - Kate Springer
