The Langham, Hong Kong

The Langham, Hong Kong

"How did it strike you on arrival?As you exit the frenetic streets of Tsim Sha Tsui and enter the grand lobby of The Langham, a sense of calm washes over you. Channeling its British heritage, the elegant lobby has marble floors, beige marble walls, and a towering chandelier. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Located in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, just steps from the city’s major shopping malls and restaurants, the hotel draws a mix of clientele—lots of business travelers, as well as Burberry-clad leisure travelers, a few families, and those in search of an authentic English afternoon tea experience. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Revamped in 2014, the rooms seem designed with Audrey Hepburn in mind—fresh yet classic, complete with a chaise lounge by the windows and black-and-white fashion portraits above the bed. While the entry-level rooms are a bit snug (about 320 square feet), they expand considerably at the Executive Room level. The suites are marvelous—each featuring its own design. Not so much a “theme” but more like subtle odes to 1920s glamour and natural elements. The Harmony Suite, for example, embraces shades of blue, wave-like motifs, and all things water. Whether you’re in a standard room or a suite, large windows overlook either the garden courtyard or city expanses. We prefer the city views, as we love to watch Hong Kong buzz day and night. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The Langham’s signature “Blissful Bed” looks as good as it feels. A king-size mattress and a seven-option pillow menu made our night. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?We let out a silent hurrah when we saw the Nespresso machine in the room, but our favorite touch was the welcome fruit. We arrived to find delicious Asian pears waiting by the window, and we devoured every last one. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Each room includes a black-and-white Italian marble bathroom with a soak tub and a separate rain shower. Naturally, the bathrooms are larger in the higher room categories and specialty suites. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Free and fast Wi-Fi will please business travelers and Instagram addicts alike. Room service: Worth it?Like most things at The Langham, room service is superlative. White-gloved servers will set up an elaborate table with starched tablecloths. A diverse menu covers favorites: big-as-your-face burgers, Chinese pork dumplings, cheesecake and even Cantonese specialties from the three-Michelin-starred T’ang Court. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?The concierge team here is ace. The Langham actually staffs two recognized Les Clefs d'Or members—an elite concierge organization with only 3,000 members internationally. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The dining options at The Langham are so good that you’ll likely never want to leave. Standouts are the afternoon tea service at Palm Court, drinks at Artesian Bar (also in the lobby lounge), and three-Michelin-starred T’ang Court. The deep crimson drapes, white tablecloths, and understated gold accents at T’ang evoke a lavish Chinese mansion. Elsewhere in the building, The Bostonian Seafood & Grill serves up surf ‘n’ turf, while Main St. Deli specializes in all things New York-style deli: milkshakes, cheesecake, burgers, and sandwiches like a hearty Reuben. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?At every opportunity, the staff went above and beyond, from the welcome fruit to the helpful recommendations. We were also impressed by the versatile food options—particularly the Cantonese cuisine and excellent afternoon tea. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Combining British heritage with Art Deco-inspired decor, The Langham balances convenience and glamour." - Kate Springer