The Olympian Hong Kong

On our 2018 trip to Hong Kong, The Olympian was easily a stand-out among the city's many luxury properties. Why is that? For starters, this intimate 32-room property is of an entirely different breed when compared to the high-rise hotels in Hong Kong's more hectic districts. Built into a quiet residential area along West Kowloon's harborfront, the vibe here is immediately exclusive and tranquil upon stepping inside. It's all marble, velvet, shimmering chandeliers in the lobby, and after checking in, guests are personally escorted to their rooms by front desk staff. Hallways are hushed, even when the hotel is near capacity, and in many ways The Olympian feels like an extension of the posh residential enclave in which it resides. There's little hustle and bustle or scene here -- don't expect the see-and-be-seen luxury crowd that flocks to legacy properties like the Mandarin Oriental. Instead, families and business travelers unwind in the living room-like lounge throughout the day and evening, or stroll along the harbor promenade outside as the sun sets.

This hotel's location is either a strength or weakness depending on what kind of traveler you are. It sits along Victoria Harbor, above the waterfront promenade where mornings see local residents practicing tai chi as the day begins. The Olympian is part of an upmarket residential development, and nearby sights are limited to a few restaurants and kid-friendly parks. The Olympic MTR station, inside of the Olympian City mall, is only a five-minute walk east for easy connections to Kowloon Station and Hong Kong Station on Hong Kong Island (one and two stops, respectively). Transfers within the system make it easy enough to reach Tsim Sha Tsui and other parts of town as well. There is no local shuttle, though taxis can easily be called by the front desk. Getting to the airport is simple enough by taking the MTR to Kowloon Station and catching the Airport Express. Expect a trip time of 45 minutes. By taxi, it's around a 30-minute drive. 

Since features here aren't too numerous, it's the rooms that really give this property its luxury status. They are easily some of the most attractive that we saw during our 2018 trip to Hong Kong -- and some of the most spacious as well. Expect towering ceilings and plenty of quiet -- there's no traffic noise or chaos around this hotel, so it's all about peaceful vibes inside. Contemporary design details include marble-and-wood side tables, silk or lattice-panel headboards, plush seating, contrasting neutrals and colorful hues, and handsome Asian-inspired art. It all looks lifted out of a high-end lifestyle magazine, to be honest. This attractive style is complemented by luxe features including extensive minibars, Nespresso machines, Bose Bluetooth soundsystems, premium Sealy mattresses, turndown service, recessed flat-screen TVs, and free Handy Phones that serve as wireless hotspots when you're out and about. Massive closets hold robes and slippers, and other standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, daily newspaper delivery, powerful air-conditioning, and digital concierges. There are no balconies, and the second-floor setting means that while views of the waterfront promenade are pleasant, you won't get the vertigo-inducing skyline vantages found at many Hong Kong hotels.Bathrooms are the crown jewel here, tricked out in light marble and wood, with dual-sink vanities, magnifying mirrors, and high-end toiletries accompanying spa-worthy bathtubs and rainfall shower rooms that feel like standing under a waterfall. The stone shower floors only add to this escapist dreamlike fantasy, making a shower more akin to an event. Keep in mind that suites are available as well, with separate sitting areas. 

Unlike the iconic luxury properties in town -- like the Ritz-Carlton and Mandarin Oriental -- The Olympian offers a pared-back list of amenities. This makes sense if you're the kind of traveler who values a tricked-out room for unwinding as opposed to a jet-setter seeking glamour. The lounge is the hotel's laid-back hub, with a living area that doubles as a meeting room, as well as a snack area. This space also serves as the breakfast venue. The a la carte and buffet meal is included in all rates and offerings range from Asian and Western standards like congee or eggs to a massive spread of sweets, breads, and fruits. Tea and coffee selections are generous as well. Room service is available for other meals until relatively late in the evening. There's also a restaurant downstairs, though it's not affiliated with the hotel. In the late afternoons, the lounge hosts cocktails and canapes, with a wide selection of everything from dried fruits and nuts to beautiful cakes and sweets. There is no spa, which is a miss in a luxury property, but the hotel does have a small fitness room with modern equipment that's suitable for a basic workout. Water, towels, and fruit are provided. Other luxe perks include Rolls Royce airport pickups (fee), and there's a handy laundry room as well. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property and valet parking is available, but there is no local shuttle.