Love At First Stay - The Upper House

As an avid traveler who happens to be a spoilt brat (I blame it on the fact that I was born a Virgo and a perfectionist), there are only a few hotels in the world that I rave about. As of today, The Upper House in Hong Kong has just been inaugurated to my list of top hotels. Exaggerated as it may sound, but I think I will try to visit Hong Kong more often now that I found a hotel that I love (yes, love it, not just like it). "Eat, Pray, Love" I may not, but I am seriously thinking to visit Hong Kong at least 3-4 times a year to "Eat, Shop, Sleep".

Located conveniently at Queensway, where Mariott Hotel and Pacific Place are located, The Upper House is the chicest hotel in Hong Kong now. Many might probably know of The Upper House though Cafe Gray Deluxe, the dining establishment located on level 49 of the hotel. Even if you are not staying at the hotel, it is worth a visit to this dynamic restaurant headed by Chef Gray Kunz, as it offers fantastic food with panoramic views of Hong Kong.

Here's a sneak peek of why I love this luxury boutique hotel...



The hotel lobby is ultra zen and chic, in an Armani Casa kind of way. Upon our arrival, we were greeted warmly by the front line team. Toby Cheung, our designated "host"welcomed us and explained that they have upgraded us from a Studio 70 (730 sq ft) to a Studio 80 (850 sq ft). I wonder if that has anything to do with my birthday being around the corner. Toby explained to us about the paperless check-in procedures that do not require us to produce our passports and fill in forms. For check-out, all we need to do is to check on our in-room tv screen for the billing info. If all is ok, we just need to leave our keys in the hotel room before our departure. Simple as it may sound, but most hotels still don't practice that.

Our room with a view. Everything in the room is fully automated by remote control. I love the huge windows that offer amazing views of Hong Kong. The interior design is simple and uncluttered, stylish and of good quality. Everything is plush here. From the pencil and the note cards to the full range of complimentary mini-bar and snack items. Internet access is free and wi-fi is available. The Upper House's design philosophy is to create a residential feel, and I think they have achieved their objective as I feel totally at home here.




The spa-inspired bathroom got me thinking. I think that's the design I would like to have for my next apartment. Functionality and design at its best.






The start of my Hong Kong trip has been exceptional. My excellent first day at The Upper House, a surprise Jo Malone package in the hotel room (a thoughtful gesture by a good friend), a very fruitful shopping trip at H&M, a wonderful Peking Duck dinner at Peking Garden, drinks and dessert at Sevva, and a turn-down gift comprising a wonderful scented candle and notebook courtesy of the hotel ... it's now time for me to hit the plush sack.


My shopping mission tomorrow is to check out the outlet stores in Hong Kong. I shall let you know if it's worth a visit to Space by Prada, Joyce and Lane Crawford warehouses.


Official Site : www.upperhouse.com