If ever there were a fitting example of the notion that it’s what’s on the inside that counts, I think it may be the Regent Hong Kong.
Pulling up to the blocky, brusque-looking building for the first time, I briefly wondered about the state of its interior. Compared to the sleek, towering Rosewood next door and the ornate Peninsula across the street, the exterior of the Regent Hong Kong looks like something that was built for the 1980s. The low-slung concrete façade evokes a sense of purpose rather than touting luxury, but I’d soon learn that this was actually kind of the whole point.
First opened in 1980, the Regent quickly became a Hong Kong icon for its unpretentious, service-forward luxury. After a grand reopening in November 2023 – following a two-decade stint as the InterContinental – Regent Hong Kong is back and better than ever.
The Vibe
Once the palace-inspired wooden doors swing open, a row of gently illuminated glass brick pillars sweep across the lobby, standing from floor to low ceiling in lieu of the grand chandeliers that frequent classic luxury hotels. Between the soft lighting, remarkable quiet and a calming scent I can’t quite put my finger on, the Regent exudes upscale.
Large windows offer a panoramic view of Victoria Harbour as guests sip tea at The Lobby Lounge or enjoy a meal at Harbourside restaurant. Traditional Chinese artwork is displayed on discreet digital screens – a past-meets-present nod to technology. Even the lifts feel like a purposeful continuation of the space; arriving swiftly, illuminating softly, smelling fantastic.
The vibe at Regent Hong Kong is sophisticated yet relaxed; refined but unstuffy. I needn’t have worried about a dated interior, that much is for sure. I briefly daydreamed about what it would take to have architect and designer Chi Wing Lo come to Germany and redo my flat.
The Rooms
With 497 rooms, the Regent does not lack in capacity. Most (75 per cent) have views of the harbour and all are cohesive in design with the rest of the property. Soothing shades of cream and warm wood give each space a bright, airy feeling. Even the carpet is light in colour – an intentional decision made to give guests the peace of mind that their room is really and truly clean. A sliding, slatted wooden partition offers privacy during daylight hours without the obstruction of curtains. The bed, as I was pleased to discover because I am very picky about mattresses, is terrifically comfortable.
I also loved the bathroom. A pocket door allows for total separation from the bedroom, and I had my choice of a rain shower or a freestanding Japanese-style soaking tub. I’m not a bath person so I opted for the former. Bathroom lighting is something I find a lot of hotels – even the fancy ones – get wrong thanks to the mysterious popularity of harsh, unflattering down-lights. Again, I needn’t have worried at the Regent as lighting throughout is dimmable to user preference. Everything feels considered, right down to the fabulous Perricone MD amenities.
The finest rooms at the Regent are its trio of Signature Suites: the Presidential Suite, Terrace Suite, and CEO Suite. Having toured the Presidential Suite, I can confirm that the two-storey, 7,000 square-foot space with private rooftop terrace and infinity pool is nothing less than spectacular.
The Food + Drink
Regent Hong Kong hosts six different restaurants and bars, including the lauded Lai Ching Heen, which specialises in Cantonese dishes. There is also The Steak House (no prizes for guessing the main attraction there), Nobu Hong Kong, The Lobby Lounge, Harbourside, and Qura Bar.
I sadly didn’t have time to experience all of these during my two-night stay, but I can confidently say that the breakfast buffet at Harbourside is one of the best hotel breakfast experiences I’ve ever had. I went wild with the likes of butter paneer, eggs Benedict, chicken congee, dim sum dumplings, and the fluffiest, crispiest mini French toasts and a selection of fresh juices. I can also attest to Quora Bar being an ideal spot to start (or end) the night with harbour views and uniquely crafted cocktails in a slinky, speakeasy-esque atmosphere.
The Little Extras
Regent Hong Kong is all about subtlety. At check-in, a plate of plump, fresh cherries sat alongside small boxes of Regent’s signature snacks – crunchy prebiotic eggrolls and sweet-savoury honey walnuts. We were quietly upgraded with access to the Club Lounge, which overlooks Harbourview (and thus Victoria Harbour) and offers breakfast, afternoon tea and cocktail hours. We’d return after an evening out and find our room tidied, the bed turned down and a sample size Perricone MD hand cream or face wash on the pillow.
The To-Do List
This is Hong Kong – anything you can imagine is available in this incredible city. The Regent sits on the Kowloon Peninsula facing Hong Kong Island across Victoria Harbour. It’s connected to the K11 Musea luxury shopping mall, and is just steps away from the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the “Avenue of the Stars”.
There’s an MTR stop right in front of the hotel, or staff can have one of the city’s signature red taxis waiting for you within seconds, so getting around is easy whether by foot, rail, or car. The Regent’s concierge desk can arrange tickets, tours, dinner reservations or simply offer advice. My own is to walk around and see where the day takes you – ideally, back to the Regent.
All image credit: Regent Hong Kong
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