Landmark Mandarin Oriental

Description:

• This small hotel eschews the boutique label because it doesn't scrimp on size, with rooms that flaunt both space and strikingly contemporary decor. Located atop the Landmark shopping complex and popular with designers who have shops there, it exudes a laid-back, refined atmosphere, with lobby seating grouped in a library setting and a stylish bar attracting a well-heeled crowd. Other diversions are limited to a spa with a Zen-like atmosphere and workout rooms for yoga and Pilates, as well as a chic restaurant serving innovative European cuisine. Though the Lan Kwai Fong nightlife district is within staggering distance, it's hard to imagine guests who can afford to stay here taking advantage of it. Rather, the big focus is on state-of-the-art guest rooms, which measure 42 or 56 sq. m (452 or 603 sq. ft.) and are priced accordingly. Both feature high-tech phones that include hands-free speakerphones and display text messages, walk-in closets, yoga mats, and fresh flowers providing splashes of color. But it's the stunning, glass-walled bathrooms, which take up about a third of the room's space, that take the cake. Big enough to live in, they have two separate vanities and dual sinks, shower stall, another TV, and a huge, round tub (in the larger rooms, the tub measures 2m/6.5 ft. across). Unfortunately, surrounding buildings can make guests feel like they're living in a fish bowl. One unwitting guest closed the sheers immediately upon check-in but forgot to close the block-out drapes later when taking her nighttime bath, discovering her faux pas only the next morning. Needless to say, there are no views from this hotel, though the same may not be said, perhaps, for office workers across the street.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010

ForbesTraveler

•  Forbes Traveler 400 2008