After a good night at the Conrad Hong Kong (you can find that review here /en/conrad-hongkong/) it was time to check in to the JW Marriott Hotel. They had a nice promotion running at the time that included a small credit per night — not quite as generous as the Conrad’s, but still a great way to get to know a new property.
As always, I booked directly through Marriott, again using a cashback platform. This meant I had access to all the status benefits of my Platinum membership at the time: complimentary breakfast, lounge access, and a suite upgrade (subject to availability). On top of that, I also earned bonus points that are only available on direct bookings (with a few minor exceptions).
Location
Both hotels are within easy walking distance of each other, separated only by a shopping mall. You can comfortably walk from one hotel to the other through Pacific Place — even with luggage — in about 10 minutes.
If you’re arriving from the airport by express train, a complimentary hotel shuttle will take you to the hotel. Just take the escalator all the way down and head to the shuttles waiting there. The shuttle also runs in the other direction, dropping you off in a very central location.
Check-In
The lobby is genuinely impressive — spacious, with plenty of seating and a live pianist who adds a lovely touch to the whole atmosphere.
Check-in took a bit longer than it should have. Initially I was only offered a standard room, but once I pointed out that suites were still available for sale, quite a few phone calls were made.
This upgrade game is unfortunately all too common. I understand the hotel’s perspective — they’ll try to sell rooms at a higher rate right up until the last moment. But Marriott Bonvoy’s terms clearly state that Platinum members are entitled to an upgrade, so I held my ground and eventually it came through. In the end, the room key was handed over with a smile and I was on my way.
Room
I received a very welcome upgrade to a so-called “Harbour View 1 Bedroom Suite” with lounge access — a corner room, no less. I have to admit, I was genuinely impressed.
Living Area
The living area features a sofa, a large glass coffee table, a great view, a minibar, and a coffee and tea machine. Everything felt exceptionally clean and well-organised.
Bathroom
Entering the room, the generously sized bathroom was immediately to the left. It impressed not only with its size but also its cleanliness. Toiletries were by Bulgari, which I rate highly — and there was a full range of extras including a shaving kit, toothbrush, and more.
In addition to a shower, there was also a bathtub and a separate WC.
Bedroom
Bright and modern, with a very comfortable bed, a good selection of pillows, a proper desk, and an ottoman that invited you to linger. There were plenty of power outlets, plus a small Bluetooth speaker system. The views from both the bedroom and the living area were genuinely spectacular.
Shortly after settling in, a member of staff brought hot tea and a bowl of fresh fruit — a lovely touch that I always appreciate.
Lounge (Club Marriott)
While you do encounter some decent hotel lounges in Europe, the Club at the JW was in a completely different league — in the best possible way.
Food and drinks are available throughout the day. In the morning there’s an excellent breakfast buffet with multiple stations, catering to every taste — both Western and Asian specialities.
Evenings get busier as a generous dinner buffet kicks off, accompanied by alcoholic beverages and cocktails served directly to your table.
I’ll let the photos of the food selection speak for themselves — the quality and freshness are truly impressive, and it’s more than enough to replace a proper dinner out.
Recreation
I did take quite a few photos at the JW Hong Kong, but somehow the pictures of the pool and the fitness room seem to have gone missing. So all I can say here is that they look exactly like the photos on the hotel’s website — and both are comfortably sized.
Check-Out
As I had extended my stay by one night, I was initially presented with two separate bills — but the total was correct, and it only took a moment to have everything consolidated onto a single invoice. I was also able to take advantage of late check-out and use the lounge well into the evening. A very generous gesture.
Verdict
All in all, I really enjoyed my stay at the JW and would book it again without hesitation. I felt safe throughout (and was even courteously informed about the ongoing demonstrations), and I genuinely look forward to returning. The service and friendly staff were attentive and welcoming — and if you have lounge access, you’ll be more than pleasantly surprised.
What have your experiences been? Feel free to share them in the comments.
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