“Although the Pen, established in 1928, is the Grand Old
Lady of Hong Kong’s hotels there’s nothing fusty about her. With a helipad on
the roof and a tea-time orchestra in the lobby, it stylishly combines the
city’s past and its high-speed present.”
Squarely placed in the middle of Tsim Sha Tsui and presiding
– as the name suggests – over the tip of mainland China, it can sometimes feel
as if everyone across the border has simultaneously descended into the streets
outside. If you don’t mind the crowds, however, it’s very convenient for
museums, the MTR, the Star Ferry and a zillion shops – plus the classic view of
Hong Kong Island, across the harbor.
The Rolls-Royces (in signature Peninsula Green) on the
forecourt and the page boys (in white) on the door set the tone. This is
carefully nurtured old-school luxury overlaid with a lively air of metropolitan
glamour. It’s best exemplified by the giant traditional Fu dog in the lobby, sculpted
– in keeping with the hotel’s desire to embrace old and new – by American Pop
artist Jim Dine.
Staff tends to remain loyal – two of the hotel’s restaurants
are named after former general managers – and so the service is, famously,
excellent. Be prepared to have eager young men leaping forward to wipe the
humidity off your sunglasses. There’s an indoor pool, a spacious spa, and a
fitness center with an open-air terrace, all of them with stunning views
towards Hong Kong island.
All 165 rooms in the original building and 135 rooms in The
Tower has been customized with state-of-the-art touch-screen tablets so you
can control temperature, light, curtains, room service and entertainment from
your bed in 11 different languages. Rooms have a delicate peach-blossom motif
as a concession to location but there isn’t the overwhelming chinoiserie you
might expect. They’re modern, uncluttered, and – on higher floors – very bright.
Make your booking here online
© Passion4Luxury 2020
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