WHAT’S IT LIKE? The latest refurbishment to its Executive Rooms has turned out well. They are now themed “Oriental Red” and “Ming Blue”, with the latter much more to my liking. This may be one of Hongkong’s older properties, but the service is unquestionably professional.
WHERE IS IT? The hotel boasts location with a capital L – at the start of Kowloon’s “Golden Mile”, Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui and a few minutes’ walk to the TST MTR Station and Star Ferry. If there is a downside, it’s the ever-present clump of aggressive copy watch hawkers stationed by the entrance who never fail to annoy.
HOW MANY ROOMS? 585 rooms, including nine suites; 354 non-smoking rooms and 231 smoking rooms.
ROOM FACILITIES: Broadband internet access is available but costs HK$160 (US$20.45) to use for 24 hours. While we appreciated the new bathroom amenities, we couldn’t help wishing the shower area had been expanded just a wee bit. RESTAURANTS: Its outlets continue to attract high patronage despite competition from other hotels and a plethora of stand-alone restaurants just at its doorstep. The Cantonese restaurant Loong Yuen, which features an award-winning fried rice dish (smothered with fried egg), is packed no matter what day of the week, while Avenue Café Vienna and the Delicatessen Corner have their regulars.
BARS: Hari’s (after Dr Hari Harilela, the patriarch of the family that owns the hotel) brings on live entertainment nightly. This institution of a watering hole keeps gaining new fans, the latest being visitors from Eastern Europe.
BUSINESS FACILITIES: There is a business centre on the premises, but upgrading to the executive floor will ensure the usual lounge perks: free internet access, meeting room and wide choice of beverages. The Crystal Ballroom (pictured) has just received new furnishings and the latest lighting and audio-visual enhancements.
LEISURE FACILITIES: One of the best equipped gyms we’ve used, with sauna and steam rooms run by attentive staff. There’s a pool, which closes down during the winter period, and massage services on site.
VERDICT: Shopping, dining and entertainment – it’s all within easy reach. Accessing other parts of the city – and even the China border – is never a problem with numerous transport options.
PRICE: US$217 nightly in late October.
CONTACT: 50 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, tel 852 2369 3111, www.holiday-inn.com/hongkong-gldn
Mark Armsden
