The Fleming, Hong Kong

To say that checking into The Fleming feels like stepping into another realm from the busy streets outside is an understatement. During our 2018 trip to Hong Kong, the hotel was easily one of the most stylish options that we saw. Once inside, the hotel makes for a calm retreat that immediately evokes the classic interiors of the Star Ferries that have criss-crossed Victoria Harbor for decades. From the dark, somber colors to the intricate light fixtures, handsome textiles, and surfaces that are clad in marble and hardwood, the hotel feels high-end and bespoke. Checking in also has unexpected perks, like the chlorophyll water that's meant to relax and rejuvenate while you wait for your keys. The atmosphere here is further enhanced by Osteria Marzia, the destination restaurant and bar that's downstairs. It almost constantly buzzes with locals sipping cocktails and tucking into authentic Italian dishes (and happens to be owned by the same team as the city's wildly popular Motorino outposts). The Fleming draws the Instagram set as well as younger leisure and business travelers who are seeking a stylish escape in one of the world's busiest cities. 

This hotel's location has some clear pros and cons, depending on what you're after during your stay in Hong Kong. Wan Chai is still slightly gritty, though is one of the city's up-and-coming districts, with new restaurants, designer boutiques, and bars opening monthly. The hotel also sits within an easy five-minute walk of the Wan Chai MTR station, connecting to Central, Sheung Wan, and even Kowloon Island within five to 20 minutes depending on your destination. However, the immediate area includes a highway exit ramp that's adjacent to the hotel -- it's a bit unsightly and noisy. The hyper-trendy Star Street Precinct is a 15-minute walk from the hotel, while the bright lights and massive malls of Causeway Bay are the same distance in the opposite direction. There are plenty of traditional Cantonese dining spots and canteens in the area as well. Expect a 30- to 45-minute drive to the airport from the hotel (though traffic can be unpredictable). Otherwise, it's about an hour by using the MTR and Airport Express trains from Hong Kong Station.

The rooms here -- ranging from Small to Extra Large (they are simply named as such) -- are a delight. That's due to the incredible attention to detail, which incorporates vintage Star Ferry-inspired decor in ways that feel thoroughly contemporary. Expect a sharp mix of dark, somber colors like navy blue and bottle green alongside details like wicker screens, bold modern art, and an abundance of marble, hardwood, and brass. It all feels convincingly nautical, without forcing any over-the-top themes down your throat -- in fact, it's hard to not feel a little "Titanic" during a stay here, making it a romantic option as well (without the tragic ending, of course). That vibe is enhanced by details like goose-down bedding, incredibly comfortable Sealy beds, and heavy leather blackout curtains. You'll also find coffeemakers, antique water bottles, Apple TVs, minibars, Handy Phones, free Wi-Fi, and individually controlled air-conditioning. Bathrooms are an additional treat, with chevron marble floors, brass fixtures, amazing local toiletries, and an overall apothecary-inspired look. The only con is that many rooms look directly onto the highway exit ramp outside, meaning a bit of noise should be expected.

This small hotel is a bit limited by its footprint in terms of what it's able to offer. Don't expect a spa, pool, or gym on-site. However, the restaurant downstairs -- Osteria Marzia -- is a great addition that plays off of the hotels' trendy style. It serves as a destination for locals throughout the day and is owned by the same management that runs Hong Kong's wildly popular Motorino outposts. The authentic Italian fare is excellent, and the tables are filled day and night. Breakfast is an excellent Italian buffet that can be added to room packages. Wi-Fi is free at the hotel and free access to a local gym is provided, but otherwise, features are few.