"How did it strike you on arrival?The 35-story-high lobby of the JW Marriott is filled with natural light and crackling with energy. Beyond the check-in and concierge desks, you’ll find a popular lobby lounge—ideal for meetings and afternoon tea—as well as a cocktail bar. The action-packed address feels a little chaotic during the day, but winds down in the evening.
Nice. What’s the crowd like?The hotel is connected to the MTR and neighbors key offices in Central, so it tends to draw business people who are short on time. On weekends, you’ll likely see a few families and an influx of couples.
The good stuff: Tell us about your room.With 602 rooms, this is one of the largest hotels in the city. It’s also one of the older upscale hotels—we found the red and mustard color scheme a bit dated. But there’s plenty to love about the sizable rooms. We stayed in a Deluxe King room, which felt reasonably spacious at about 350 square feet. The views—windows face either Victoria Harbor or the lush Peak mountain—were the kicker.
We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Marriotts always seem to have great beds and this JW is no different. You can expect a Marriott Signature Bed, with extra support in the pocketed coils. You'll also have 300-thread count cotton sheets, a mattress topper, and a pillow menu.
How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Guests are greeted with a pot of Chinese tea and fresh fruit upon arrival—a nice touch. Remote workers will beeline to the window-facing desk, ergonomic office chair, and smart international plugs in every corner.
Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Both good-looking and functional, the marble bathrooms have a powerful shower head and branded aromatherapy amenities. Those in the deluxe rooms will upgrade to Bulgari bath products—and all rooms comes with optional kids' robes and slippers upon request.
Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, with an optional upgrade for faster internet (worth it for those who have lots of uploading, downloading or streaming on their to-do list).
Room service: Worth it?A comprehensive in-room dining menu covers all comfort food favorites, plus a lengthy list of Chinese classics. There’s no better way to cap off an intense day than with wonton noodles and barbecued pork in a bathrobe.
Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.On the seventh floor, you'll find help maintaining healthy habits, including a temperature-controlled outdoor pool and a sauna. On weekends, Pilates and group fitness classes are on offer. The versatile restaurants and bars at JW Marriott aim to sate most cravings. There's a decadent afternoon tea at The Lounge; all-day dining and a buffet breakfast at JW Cafe; modern classics at Flint Grill & Bar; Cantonese dim sum at Man Ho; seafood favorites at Fish Bar; and live music and quality cocktails at Bar Q88.
What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?The hotel lacks a spa, which was a disappointment. You can book a massage at the health club—not quite the same, but better than nothing. Apart from that, the JW has everything else you could possibly need, including some of the best business facilities and services in the city.
Bottom line: worth it, and why?The excellent location (atop Pacific Place mall and the MTR) is ideal for zipping around Hong Kong. Add to that the health facilities, diverse restaurants, and comprehensive services and you have a favorite among the business set." - Kate Springer
