Arrival/Check-In: I arrived by taxi from Hong Kong International Airport on a warm Sunday afternoon. With light traffic, the ride to the International Commerce Centre took about 30 minutes. The hotel, occupying the top floors of the iconic Kowloon skyscraper, projects a refined, business-oriented atmosphere from the moment you arrive. Valets welcome you at the drive, escort you to the elevator, and direct you to the 103rd floor. The lobby is expansive, finished in dark marble and wood with soft lighting, and busy with guests. Because I booked a Club Suite, I was directed to the Club Lounge on the 116th floor. Seated by the large windows, I enjoyed tea while checking in. Though it was only 10 a.m., the hotel accommodated my early check-in without issue.
Guest Quarters: My Grand Victoria Harbour room felt just right. As I passed down the hallway of warm wood tones and entered the room, the panoramic city views and abundant natural light were immediately striking. The interplay of dark wood furnishings and cream carpeting created a welcoming, at-home atmosphere. The king-size bed dominated the space and was dressed in 400-thread-count linens, with down pillows and a comfortable mattress that ensured a restful night. Both bedside tables included electrical outlets for charging phones and tablets. A 42-inch flat-screen TV faced the bed, while a long marble console under the TV provided ample surface area for personal items. The work desk sat in front of the window with plentiful outlets and a comfortable chair, though I often worked from the window seat to enjoy the view while catching up on email.
The bathroom is finished in marble with bright, open lighting and a double sink that offers generous counter space for toiletries. The oversized mirror is framed by extra lighting and the vanity includes multiple outlets—note that powerful styling tools may trip the socket. Bath amenities from the hotel’s Aspry line have a delicate citrus scent that is pleasant without overpowering. A large walk-in shower with a rainfall head was a highlight; frosted glass separates the shower area from the toilet for privacy.
On my second stay at the property, I returned to my room after a long day to find a thoughtful welcome: balloons, flowers and a “Welcome back” card. Small gestures like that made the stay feel personal and memorable.
Services and Amenities: The in-room dining menu at The Ritz-Carlton is extensive and generally fast, but for those on the Club level the Club Lounge is the preferred dining spot. The lounge, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable seating, serves as the social hub of the hotel. I spent much of my time there while in-house. Breakfast is served until 10:30 a.m., and I enjoyed daily dim sum tastings alongside a pot of English breakfast tea. The concierge team proved helpful with directions, reservations and printing needs.
Each evening the Club Lounge offers small plates and Cantonese favorites alongside a selection of Champagne—ideal for informal business meetings or a relaxed pre-dinner drink. For more formal dining, the hotel features notable options: Tosca delivers an inventive take on Italian cuisine, while Tin Lung Heen offers refined Cantonese dishes and carries Michelin recognition; reservations are recommended. OZONE, the hotel’s sky-high bar off the lobby elevator, markets itself as one of the highest bars in the world. It includes an outdoor terrace with sweeping city views and serves premium cocktails such as the Dragon’s Back and the Tropical Cyclone. It’s an expensive experience but one worth trying for the view and atmosphere.
Fitness and leisure facilities are excellent. The 24-hour fitness center on the top floors is impressive, with multiple treadmills and a lap pool that looks out over the city—an inspiring workout environment that encourages lingering.
Top Takeaways:
- The staff at The Ritz-Carlton are attentive and proactive, often offering suggestions to improve your stay.
- The Club Lounge is invaluable for business travelers, providing quality food, quick service and practical assistance.
- Guestrooms, dining venues and the gym offer outstanding views of Hong Kong and Victoria Harbour.
- The hotel’s location in Kowloon provides convenient access by car or MTR to shopping, dining and business districts.
THE RITZ-CARLTON, HONG KONG
International Commerce Centre
1 Austin Road W.
Kowloon, Hong Kong
tel 852 2263 2263
ritzcarlton.com