jsrose2

Hi All,

I'll be staying in HK for three nights this summer (first time there), and have narrowed down my hotels to two options: the Mandarin Oriental and the Island Shangri-La.

On paper, I prefer the location of the Mandarin - namely that its close to star ferry, LKF / Soho and the peak tram. On the other hand, I think aesthetics of the Island Shangri-La are much more unique (compared to the big chain hotels we get in the states), which is appealing. I also like the outdoor pool (given how hot it will be). I know either of these top notch, so I am really just nit picking here.

In sum, I think I like the vibe of the Shangri-La but the location of the Mandarin. I'd like to know if anyone has experienced both of these and has a preference, or if those familiar with the city think that the Mandarin's location is significantly better than that of the Shangri-La.

Also: I get corporate rates at these hotels, which is why I'm not considering any of the other lux properties in the city (so while I appreciate anyone's enthusiasm on another hotel, I'm really only focused on these two!).

Thanks in advance for any thoughts!

DonTopaz

I've stayed in both, and it's not a burden to stay at either.

The Shangri-La has more of a big hotel feel to me. The most striking architectural feature of the hotel is the spectacular atrium-mural in the elevator area -- it's amazing. There's a downside to this, though: the Shang has 2 fewer elevators than its next-door twin, the Conrad (which has no atrium-mural), and the wait for an elevator can be annoying.

One extremely useful attribute of the Shang is its direct connection to Pacific Place -- access to lots of shopping and many restaurants without ever leaving air-conditioned space. That's a nice feature in a Hong Kong summer.

Mandarin has a bit more of an Old Money feel.

A harbour-facing Shang room on the top several floors has a great view. I haven't been in a harbour-view room at the MO, so can't compare.

Overall, I'd say that the Mandarin has the edge on service, but, at this level, it really starts to become an exercise in hair-splitting.

jsrose2

Thanks Don, this is super helpful. Seems like I cant go wrong at either in terms of accommodation / service.

What do folks think about location? I think I'd be interested in checking out LKF / Soho for night life / dinner...I know the Mandarin is closer, but does it really matter?

rkkwan

It's a short walk from the MO to LKF. From the Shang, you'll likely take a short taxi ride.

While the MO is not <b>directly</b> connected to the MTR, it is just steps from one of the MTR entrances. And the walk from the MO to the actual trains at the Central MTR station is shorter than from the Shang. And the MO <b>is</b> connected via air-conditioned bridge to Prince's Building, one of the many interconnected buildings in Central with ultra-luxury shopping, and owned by the same developer as the MO (Hongkong Land), including the Landmark. So, even in a huge downpour or typhoon, you can still get from the MTR to the MO without going outside, though through a more circuitous route.