Lan Kwai Fong Hotel @ Kau U Fong

"How did it strike you on arrival?The small yet functional lobby of the Lan Kwai Fong Hotel @ Kau U Fong lacks the grandeur of a luxury hotel, but don’t let that you put you off. Look instead to the smiling staff behind the gold-painted reception counter and the Chinese art adorning the walls. This boutique hotel in the fashionable Gough Street neighborhood has character. Nice. What’s the crowd like?We’ve seen guests from all ages and all walks of life here. But it's a favorite with international couples and business travelers looking for a good-value hotel in a convenient location. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.After riding up the narrow elevator to the 27th floor, we found our Deluxe Harbour View Room. As soon as we stepped inside, we were drawn to the enormous windows and window seat. At about 355 square feet, the room felt small but manageable for two people. We thought the carpet and furniture could use some refurbishing, but loved the traditional Chinese design—pretty latticed wood frames, deep red pillows, jade accents. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The queen-size bed was comfortable for two, and we liked the feel of the sheets and the pillows. Some rooms have double beds, rather than queen, so check before booking if you like to stretch out. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?On a table by the window, we found a set of retro teapots in turquoise and yellow. They’re a typical Hong Kong style that we saw everywhere once we started exploring the city’s cha chaan teng cafes and outdoor dai pai dong restaurants. Another nice touch is the hand-drawn travel guidebook, which features the latest news from around the neigbhorhood. If you're wondering what to eat, drink or buy... look no further. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The spa-like gray stone bathroom has a bamboo rack for towels, a handsome circular sink, big mirror, shower and bathtub. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?In addition to decent free Wi-Fi, we also found a complimentary smartphone in the room. Loaded with 4G data and a hotspot for tethering, the phone made exploring Hong Kong much easier. Room service: Worth it?Room service is available but it will be a cramped affair. We’d recommend eating at the hotel’s Chinese restaurant downstairs or going out for dinner. You can also get all-day coffee and snacks at the fourth-floor Breeze Lounge, and complimentary wine on the lounge terrace from 5-8 p.m. every evening. Even better, you're in easy walking distance of excellent Hong Kong restaurants. Around the corner, find Ronin (a speakeasy-esque Japanese restaurant), The Chairman (for classic Cantonese) and Kau Kee (a popular noodle and beef brisket spot always with a line out the door). Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.There is a small gym, the pretty Breeze Lounge, and Michelin-starred Celebrity Cuisine (a classic Chinese restaurant). But you won’t find a bar, spa, or parking. It’s also worth noting that the Gough Street area is narrow and hilly—those with mobility issues will likely want to book elsewhere. As for services, the hotel offers babysitting, complimentary shoe shines, express check-out, and luggage storage. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?Breakfast was included in our stay, but the restaurant was so crowded in the morning that we had to share a table with other guests. We didn't think we were up for small talk, but we ended up meeting a fascinating couple from England. All's well that ends well. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Lan Kwai Fong Hotel sits in one of Hong Kong’s top neighborhoods, surrounded by cool coffee shops and a melange of restaurants. The convenient location might be its best feature, followed by harbor-view rooms, classic Chinese design, and generous complimentary perks." - Kate Springer