The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong
"How did it strike you on arrival?If you grew up with a YMCA, the name might make you think of well-used, fluorescent-lit athletic facilities. This is not that kind of YMCA. Skylights flood the three-story wood-paneled entrance with natural light. Inviting armchairs, potted plants, and a communal table made of a single chunk of gleaming wood anchor the Mall Cafe off to one side of the lobby. None of it is what we were expecting. Nice. What’s the crowd like?The many families and older international couples are likely here for the hotel's versatile room types, location, and reputation as Hong Kong’s best value. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The 372 rooms were renovated big-time in 2014. In the compact 180-square-foot single rooms (with a single bed) all the way up to the 530-square-foot Harbour View Suite there is a calming palette of beige, brown, and white. The Harbour View rooms showcase the multimedia Symphony of Lights every night at 8 p.m. and are relatively spacious at 250 square feet. This isn't a five-star luxury hotel, but you will find all the basic services, such as a kettle for tea and coffee, welcome fruit, and daily water. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?In every room except the singles, guests can specify either two single beds or one queen-sized bed. They’re comfortable, if a little stiff, with clean sheets and a pretty bed runner. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?This budget-friendly hotel sits next to the star-studded Peninsula hotel—in other words, a short stroll from the famous afternoon tea. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Neutral-toned bathrooms are spotless but basic, with a shower-tub combo and a granite-topped vanity. Just make sure to hit the switch for hot water before you hop in. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?You can use the free Wi-Fi on up to four devices per person. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The Salisbury is part of a larger sports complex, which means athletic types will have a lots of options—including a six-lane swimming pool, Jacuzzi, indoor rock climbing wall, squash courts, dance studio, and sauna. Guests are invited to use the large washing machines on the ninth floor, which are operated via tokens (collected from reception). Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner (and weekend afternoon tea), the Salisbury Dining Room provides harbor views and generous buffet spreads. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?We were pleased with the great value at the Salisbury and loved the views. We’d also recommend this hotel to the sporty—an indoor climbing wall is not a typical amenity. Our only hang up was communication with the staff. At times it was difficult to find a staff member who spoke fluent English, though senior staff and the concierge were very helpful. Bottom line: worth it, and why?With easy access to the Star Ferry, metro, and cruise terminal, The Salisbury offers an affordable and comfortable stay in the center of Hong Kong’s main arteries." - Kate Springer
