Location, location, location. Everyone knows this real estate mantra. The locale of Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel is brilliant. Standing on Canton Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, this is the prime spot for glam shopping and a chance to collect the Yelp High Roller badge. Public transportation is simple. If you want to skip the taxi, the Star Ferry and the bus terminal are just around the corner and MTR isn't far either.
My suite was capacious with a separate kitchen and a walk-in closet. The furniture was in good condition. The bed was comfortable. The other amenities were cool, too. They provided a mobile phone with data to take with you while out sightseeing. The Nespresso machine came in handy. For turndown service, we got a bottle of chilled champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries. It was a nice gesture. The best part for me though was the view of Victoria Harbour. It was absolutely breathtaking, day or night!
Disappointingly, the service was hit or miss. The doormen were all polite and efficient but some other staff had some training to do. Although the check-in counter clerk was nice, it took her a long time to get things set up, all the while, I had to stand there waiting. Mind you, I had just been on a long flight and was more than weary. Behind me, a suit with a name tag was scrutinizing customers while pacing in the lobby. Whatever his role was in the hotel, that stare of his wasn't a welcoming one. Later in the evening, I called to ask for an extra blanket. A worker from housekeeping knocked. I opened the door. She gave me a quick glance. After handing me the blanket, she turned around and left. No facial expression. Not a single word. Let alone a smile. Uh, sorry to have troubled you?
I'm not trying to nitpick but all that somewhat tainted my otherwise pleasant stay. I had expected better customer service especially for what I paid. Hospitality management is crucial in such a competitive tourist-centric environment. There are plenty of accommodations to choose from in Hong Kong. Where should I stay on my next visit? read more