Lanson Place Hotel
BACKGROUND Hong Kongbased Lanson Place is a part of :ing Tai Properties that manages 11 other hotels under the same brand across Asia PaciÀc.
WHAT’S IT LIKE Although owned by a Chinese Àrm, Lanson Place feels more like a boutique hotel in Europe. It is a part of a commercial building however its exterior facade breaks the clutter of the identical highrises around it with its French architectural style. The charming entrance with a Morano chandelier and a greentoned concierge area leads to the Courtyard — a roomy lounging space with ample natural light and plants. Check-in took place at the reception next to the sophisticated 133 Lounge on the Àrst Áoor. Greys and beiges in the upholstery add warmth to this comfortable and bright cocoon where I found myself working in the evening alongside a drink. It’s a “no frillsµ property that’s straightforward about its services — ensuring no hidden charges upon check-out.
WHERE IS IT Causeway Bay MTR Station is a three-minute walk. Sogo Department Store and
Times Square Shopping malls are Àve minutes by foot. Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo can be reached in 15 minutes by taxi.
ROOM FACILITIES It has 194 rooms that are divided as Superior (34 sqm), Premier (37 sqm), Deluxe (41 sqm), Grand Luxe (45 sqm) and 21 suites categorised as Prestige (55 sqm), Penthouse OneBedroom (93 sqm) and Penthouse Two-Bedroom (140 sqm). My Deluxe room was as cosy as the rest of the hotel. :ith subtle greys and whites used across the space, the space is well-designed and soothing to the eye. The maroon bedrest breaks the almost monotoned room with a surprising splash of colour. Striped wallpaper complements the striped cushions on a grey lounger that sits next to a lamp and window. A desk with a handy-phone (that allows calls to Australia, China, France, Singapore, UK and US) is placed in-front of the LCD television (32inch) with a DVD player. There is also a DVD library from where guests can borrow movies on a complimentary basis. My room was Àtted with a kitchenette with
a coͿee maker, refrigerators and microwave — and was used well to heat up some take-out I brought in from a nearby restaurant. An iron with ironing board, a hairdryer and a personal safe are provided too. The hotel oͿers free wiÀ. RESTAURANTS AND BARS
Breakfast at 133 Lounge and Library was simple and enjoyable. There is a wide range of French cakes and savouries that go with the feel of the hotel. BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES Murano Room (45 sqm), Murano Room I, II (52 sqm), Murano Room I II (105 sqm) and The Leighton (195 sqm) are its meeting rooms that are equipped with digital whiteboards, teleconferencing facilities, wiÀ and wireless microphones.
LEISURE FACILITIES Being a boutique hotel, there aren’t extensive leisure facilities except for a 24-hour Àtness centre. There is a self-service launderette though.
VERDICT Boutique amenities with a classic touch — perfect for a business traveller looking to enjoy a quaint and basic stay in Causeway Bay.