Prince Hotel, Hong Kong

BACKGROUND First opened in 1984, the Prince Hotel closed during Covid for a major three-year restoration, reopening in September 2023 with brand-new interiors. The property is operated by Wharf Hotels, which also owns Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel and Gateway Hotel, Hong Kong. Wharf Hotels also operates the Niccolo brand (which includes The Murray in Hong Kong) as well as the recently launched Maqo brand, which debuted in Changsha.

WHERE IS IT?

On busy Canton Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. It is part of the massive Harbour City shopping mall complex (with more than 450 shops and 70 food and drink outlets). The hotel is located close to the iconic Star Ferry for easy crossings to Central, plus cultural attractions such as the Hong Kong Museum of Art and Kowloon Park.

WHAT’S IT LIKE? Enthusiastic staff helped me carry my luggage up the steps from my taxi (there is a private entrance off Canton Road) to the lobby. The stylish space was bustling with people, and featured a grey marble floor, pops of colour and modern seating. Six lifts efficiently whisked guests to the 394 guest rooms and suites, which come in eight categories ranging from 29 sqm to 56 sqm.

ROOMS I was escorted to the top-category Continental Superior Suite (56 sqm) for a private check in on the 16th floor. Although I arrived at 9am, staff had thoughtfully closed the blinds anticipating I might want to nap after a long flight (they were right).

The design was modern and attractive, with a bright bold scheme of primary colours. Signature “imperial-red” walls, bright abstract paintings and accents in the soft furnishings injected plenty of personality into the space.

The suite was a very generous size with a separate living room, bedroom and bathroom, plus a large walk-in vanity area (the flooring also changed from marble in the entrance, to soft grey carpet in the living and sleeping area, and wood effect in the bathroom and dressing areas).

The living room area featured a chic sofa and modern glass-and-metal furniture, with a large wall-mounted TV. A cabinet near the door held a kettle and Nespresso machine with complimentary water, though the minibar was empty. Funky details included a mirror engraved with a map of the surrounding area.

In the bedroom was a comfy king-size bed with a statement blue headboard, table

The wardrobe could be opened from both the bedroom and the vanity area

and chairs, sofa, large TV and more colourful abstract artworks. There were two USB ports by the bedside, and personal lights (though the master switch was by the main door).

A toilet, shower (no rain shower option) and bath were in one room, with two types of bathrobes available, while the large vanity area with double sinks was between the living room and bedroom. Lots of space for personal items and lots of complimentary amenities (shaving kit, dental kit, hairbrush). It did seem faintly ironic to have a “save the environment, hang your towel” note lying next to the disposable plastic hairbrushes and miniature bottles.

The wardrobe could be opened from both the bedroom and the vanity area, and contained proper hangers, iron and ironing board and a clothes brush.

While there were small tables in both the living room and bedroom, there was a lack of a proper work surface, with not too many power ports available. However, guests on the 16th and 17th floors can make use of the elegant Continental Club for working, relaxing or enjoying refreshments throughout the day (though this was not open during my visit in November). Breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails and snacks are served here, with striking views over the harbour. Continental Club guests may also enjoy perks such as a 20 per cent discount on laundry and pressing service plus private check-in/out.

FOOD AND DRINK

Savvy on Level 3 is a huge 743 sqm space. It has been divided into three distinct zones with a bar, lounge and a stylish restaurant run by chef Derek Ng. The breakfast buffet was an absolute phenomenon. There was a huge choice of food from around the world plus various live cooking stations. It was very busy, but everything flowed smoothly.

MEETINGS

A private room in Savvy can be closed off for private events and has a projector, but for larger events guests can use the facilities at the nearby Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel, which has multiple event spaces and a ballroom.

LEISURE

A 24-hour gym is on the fourth floor. Guests are also welcome to use facilities at Marco Polo Hongkong, including an outdoor pool deck on the sixth floor.

VERDICT

I enjoyed my stay at the revamped Prince Hotel, with friendly, efficient staff and a superb breakfast. It’s a shame I didn’t get to experience the Continental Club, as it looks lovely. Tamsin Cocks

BESTFOR

Attractive, modern rooms in the centre of town

DON’TMISS

The magnificent breakfast feast at Savvy

PRICE

Internet rates for a flexible midweek stay in a Continental Superior Suite start from HK$3,850/ US$490 per night (excluding taxes) in mid-May (entry rates start from HK$1,845/US$236)

CONTACT

23 Canton Road, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong; +852 2113 1888; marcopolohotels.com