I’m currently working on efficiently publishing all the reviews from trips I took in late 2025, given just how much travel I did. However, that’s not stopping me from planning a last minute trip that I’m really excited about.
Let me explain what I’ve booked so far, and then I’d love some feedback, because there are still plenty of things I haven’t yet planned, including some of the hotels, plus the return portion.
In this post:
We’re visiting Taipei & Hong Kong, and I’m excited!
Back when Ford and I met over a decade ago, we’d travel to Asia all the time. For a variety of reasons (primarily family obligations), that just hasn’t happened for us as much in recent years, aside from an annual trip to Japan. However, there’s so much in Asia to enjoy, and there’s no denying that the general service level and value for luxury hotels is often so much better than in North America and Europe.
So I realize that on the surface this might not sound like the most exciting trip to some, but we decided to plan a trip to Taipei and Hong Kong:
- I haven’t “properly” visited Taipei in around a decade, and Ford has never been before, and I think it’s such a vibrant city that’s worth spending time in
- Hong Kong is one of my favorite cities in the world, and Ford also hasn’t been in nearly a decade, so we’re excited to spend a few days there
As I’ll explain below, for both cities, there’s a bit of a hotel angle…
We’re flying American, China Airlines, and Cathay Pacific
So far I’ve only booked the outbound portion of the trip, but let me share what I have planned. First, I’ve been wanting to check out American’s new A321XLR business class, so I booked that from New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX) for 35,000 Alaska Atmos Rewards points.
That’s actually not terribly convenient for the purposes of this trip, but hey, I wanted to make it happen somehow, so I’m just tagging that onto the front, even if it requires me to then make an extra hop to get to the transpacific gateway.
What sort of motivated my planning of this trip is that I saw good China Airlines business class award availability from Phoenix (PHX) to Taipei (TPE), which is a new route on the carrier. Can I just point out how much I love this flight’s schedule? It leaves at 4PM, and arrives at 10PM the next day, and I just think that’s one of the best transpacific flight schedules I’ve ever seen, at least for my very strange sleeping habits.
Good transpacific awards can be hard to come by nowadays. I booked this for just 72,500 Air France-KLM Flying Blue miles per person, which I acquired with a 25% transfer bonus, meaning I really only redeemed 58,000 transferable points for these tickets. Not bad, eh?
Then from Taipei to Hong Kong (HKG), we’ll be flying Cathay Pacific’s regional A330 business class, which I haven’t reviewed in some time either. I booked that for 16,000 Cathay miles per person. That’s not the most exciting product, but it’s a short flight and you can’t beat the value, so that works for me.
Here’s the thing — we don’t actually have a return ticket booked yet, so that’s as far as I’ve gotten with planning. This is a pretty last minute trip, and we’re pushing up against the Chinese New Year holiday, but I think we should be able to find something decent.
I can’t wait to stay at the new Capella Taipei!
In Taipei, we’ll be staying at the new Capella, which is now considered to be the city’s best hotel. It’s by no means cheap, but honestly, it’s a bargain compared to what you pay for a true luxury property in the United States or Europe nowadays. It’ll also be my first-ever stay at a Capella property, and it’s a brand I’ve been wanting to try out.
Speaking of Taipei, it has been so long since I’ve properly visited, and Ford has never been. We just have a couple of full days there, so does anyone have any tips for things we can’t miss, any great dining experiences, etc.?
We’ll stay at “the world’s best hotel” in Hong Kong
Since we don’t have a return flight booked yet, we’re not actually sure for how long we’ll stay in Hong Kong, and so far, we’ve only booked one hotel. We will be spending a couple of nights at the Rosewood Hong Kong, which is the hotel in the city that I’m most curious about.
Not that I place much value on this, but the recent World’s 50 Best Hotels list put this property in the number one spot. While I’m skeptical about a property this size being the best in the world, I have no doubt that this will be a great city hotel, and look forward to seeing just how good it is.
After that, the plan is to pop into a couple of luxury Hong Kong properties for one night each. Given the Amex Platinum hotel credit, nothing is too unreasonably priced, so we’re flexible.
I think the one hotel we definitely want to check out is the Upper House Hong Kong, which I’ve heard great things about, and I’m curious to see what all the buzz is about, since on the surface, it doesn’t look that remarkable — there’s no pool, dining is limited, etc., yet people seem to adore it.
What about beyond that, though? I’ll let y’all decide where we should stay, though here are my general thoughts:
- I haven’t stayed at the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong in over a decade, and I love super high hotels, so I’m considering that; however, it seems that at this point, the property might not be at its peak anymore, or at a minimum, isn’t terribly interesting?
- I’m considering the Regent Hong Kong, which is the former InterContinental; as a lover of Hong Kong, I’m convinced this hotel has the best view of any hotel in the world, so I’m tempted to stay here for that alone, even if I think the experience won’t otherwise be remarkable
- The Peninsula Hong Kong is no doubt an iconic property, and is actually the most reasonably priced; however, this strikes me as a full-on “luxury factory,” with the lobby overflowing with non-hotel guests
- I’ve heard the Four Seasons Hong Kong is great as well, with very good restaurants, though I’m not sure there’s anything particularly remarkable about it otherwise?
Let me know if there are any others I’m not thinking of, that are worth considering. I recently reviewed the St. Regis Hong Kong, which is the other one that would be on my radar. It’s nice how even the most expensive hotel in Hong Kong goes for well under $1,000 per night, quite a contrast to some other major cities.
I’m open to ideas for after Hong Kong…
Since we have two little kids (who will be staying home with Ford’s mom/my mother-in-law), we of course try to minimize our time away from home, or at least the amount of time that both of us are away from home.
So after Hong Kong, Ford will definitely be flying home. My hope is that United opens up award space in Polaris business class, which tends to happen as the departure date approaches (at least through MileagePlus). Meanwhile I’ll likely have a hall pass for a few days, and can take a more roundabout routing home, and have some fun.
What should I do? Well, I’m all over the place:
- Should I have more of a hotel focus, and finally do the Jakarta “hotel shuffle” I’ve been wanting to do for some time, checking out the Park Hyatt Jakarta, all-club lounge Ritz-Carlton, etc.? Or should I check out the Park Hyatt Tokyo, or Osaka Station Hotel and Waldorf Astoria Osaka?
- Should I take more of a flight focus, and check out Thai Airways’ A321neo and A320 business class, or Aeromexico’s 787 business class from Tokyo (NRT) to Mexico City (MEX), or try to find a way to do SWISS Senses A350 first class, or maybe Air Astana through Kazakstan (okay, that’s way out there, but I’m game!)?
Bottom line
I’m looking forward to visiting Taipei and Hong Kong with Ford soon. We’ll definitely be flying American’s A321XLR business class and China Airlines’ A350 business class, though beyond that, everything is pretty open-ended. I’m also excited about the hotel angle here, ranging from the Capella Taipei, to the Rosewood Hong Kong.
As you can see, there’s still quite a bit that hasn’t been finalized, so if anyone has feedback on the above (flights, hotels, what to do in Taipei, etc.), I’d love to hear it! Thanks for reading, and stay tuned!
I'm put a vote in for Japanese hotel reviews!
I vote for Jakarta for your free days, a little more offbeat and not widely reviewed elsewhere.
Excited to see your reviews from this set of travels!
Hi Lucky,
Elated to hear you are going back to Taiwan & HKG! For me it's a special place. Longtime reader and fellow Floridian. I'll actually be coordinating flights for my parents on that new route next week from TPA>PHX>TPE so if you see an elderly cute Taiwanese couple in Row 10/middle seats please say hi as being able to book them in biz these days is in no small part due to this...
Hi Lucky,
Elated to hear you are going back to Taiwan & HKG! For me it's a special place. Longtime reader and fellow Floridian. I'll actually be coordinating flights for my parents on that new route next week from TPA>PHX>TPE so if you see an elderly cute Taiwanese couple in Row 10/middle seats please say hi as being able to book them in biz these days is in no small part due to this blog over the years.
There's just so many things to do in the the city that I find it hard to pick one. A bustling food scene, kind folks, great night markets. I will say that while Jiufen/Pingxi can be touristy as mentioned by someone else especially during peak hours (midday-weekend) the move for me would be to stay overnight in Jiufen and wander the alleyways once all the tour buses leave by 5pm. If you ever enjoyed the Hayao Miyazaki movie Spirited Away it truly feels like a scene straight from the movie. Also there are a decent amount of accommodations that have a private onsen both in and around Taipei (Beitou being the closest to Taipei proper where you can have a private experience for <$100). I hope you enjoy the experience Taiwan truly has a lot to offer :) and make sure to enjoy the street food!
The Murray Hong Kong..
For Aviation Geek, I'd recommend visiting the new Kai Tak Sports Park, which include a miniature of the old Kai Tak Airport and a chance to visit the redeveloped Runway 13. And the checker board is still there (search Fu On St) in Kowloon City about a mile away. Hopefully, you will have a chance to see the Retro CX A350-900 (B-LRJ) and the Retro CX 747-8F (B-LJE).
Just returned from HK and Taipei. Visa and Mastercard not accepted at most HK local restaurants. Cash or an Octopus card (transportation, sights and food) will do the trick.
Get an Easy Card in Taipei airport for MRT easy ride to T101 to.
I didn't have this problem last May? Almost everywhere in Taiwan and HK took my Visa. Agree cash was more helpful than expected, though and to add balance to my Octopus card I needed cash.
And in Macau cash was necessary.
I have stayed at The Regent many times from its original opening to the latest iteration back as The Regent IHG. It is still a really great hotel and the location & views cannot be beaten & as everyone says, service is amazing which is of course the case in so many Asian hotels. I do think some of the bathroom configurations are a little strange as they have embraced the current trend for ginormous...
I have stayed at The Regent many times from its original opening to the latest iteration back as The Regent IHG. It is still a really great hotel and the location & views cannot be beaten & as everyone says, service is amazing which is of course the case in so many Asian hotels. I do think some of the bathroom configurations are a little strange as they have embraced the current trend for ginormous bathtubs and little delineation between bath and bedrooms but the spectacular views over the harbor trump everything. It is actually connected to the Rosewood via a high end shopping centre and you can access just near Regent check in so their locations are fairly similar. They also have brilliant restaurants. I have stayed there twice in the last year and both times really busy and clearly a very popular hotel amongst well to do, young mainland Chinese nowadays.
I also love to stay on the island side for a completely different experience and although it's awhile since I have stayed at the MO or the UH, they are both phenomenal properties with unbelievable service. So I think Lucky you need to decide on the locations you want to trial and then choose the hotels but at the v least one on each side of the harbor is your starting point
I know your focus is hotels and airlines but a stand out must do in Hong Kong these days are the two new (ish) museums - the M Contemporary Art and the Palace - both worth a trip to Hong Kong just to visit these. The whole redevelopment on that end of HKG is extraordinary. Visiting HKG is a very different experience in the last decade and it's clear the govt has identified the need for new tourism product to attract a whole new traveller.
As for Taipei, fabulous and again, an absolute must do is the Palace Museum which has jaw dropping treasures. The overall energy of the city and the creativity and youth in so many interesting ventures mixed with the ancient temples and markets make it a wonderful city to visit. You'll have a great time and you'll be really welcomed by everyone who seem to be really happy to see foreign tourists in the current difficult circumstances so get your google translate ready to chat.
I've scoured this blog a few times - and I'm always genuinely surprised how little you've written about Seoul (and if there's maybe a reason why?). I know you've spent time in Incheon / reviewed Korean + Asiana, but Seoul has so many incredible points hotels, rich culture, and incredible food - but always seems to be a bit overlooked as a city? Maybe I've missed something - but would love to see you spend some time there as I think you'd be genuinely impressed :)
Try hotel icon! Great views, great food, great views over the harbour and a 9th floor pool with views. It's also right next to the cross harbour tunnel to Hong Kong island, so great bus connections as well as the MTR train. Enjoy Hong Kong!
I thought you were going to visit some of and beyond (&beyond) properties :(
It would be really cool, you should check them out.
I'd love to see the Regent Hong Kong! IHG tends to be overlooked in Asia, and I feel like this property is also surprisingly accessible through buying points at 0.5 cents, so it's more relevant to me and a place I'm more likely to stay compared to the Rosewood.
Would love more hotel reviews! PH Jakarta sounds good though I imagine PH Tokyo post renovation is what most people will want.
Take the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong! It’s just as good as it was 10 years ago. I’ve been staying here for 15 years straight and have never changed. Head down to Lung King Heen for dinner, but avoid Caprice (it’s an overrated French restaurant). And if you love dim sum, Spring Moon at the Peninsula is wonderful.
I travel to Hong Kong from San Francisco every eight weeks, and you’ll be delighted to know these are some of the stuffs I do.
Lucky,
Your blog has lost its shine.
I remember when you used to travel to far flung & interesting places.
HK & Taipei. Seriously?
I agree, after living in Hong Kong 20 years, the Regent has the best view, night and daytime. All my American clients always choose to stay there, so I spent alot of time in that beautiful lobby overlooking the harbour as we met.
I lived and worked on the Hong Kong Island side. Watched the planes take off and land at the old airport across the water. Everyone loved watching it, until the new airport...
I agree, after living in Hong Kong 20 years, the Regent has the best view, night and daytime. All my American clients always choose to stay there, so I spent alot of time in that beautiful lobby overlooking the harbour as we met.
I lived and worked on the Hong Kong Island side. Watched the planes take off and land at the old airport across the water. Everyone loved watching it, until the new airport opened.
It is still an amazing fact that the old airport closed the end of the day, and the new one opened the next morning. I haven't seen anything like that around the world. Just amazing effort, planning and executing that result.
I would most definetly choose Japan over Jakarta, especially for young kids. There is more animation than Disney in Japan.
And if you choose it, try going to Nikko on the old Japanese train. It is a real temple built in the 1600's by the third Shogun Togugawa Lemitsu. Its the real thing.
The newly opened Kimpton in Hong Kong TST is worth checking out for the views from the room. The top floor rooftop pool has one of the best city views in the world imo. I stayed there opening night in September.
It is also (almost) right across the road from the Rosewood.
Sounds like an amazing trip! I can recommend The Conrad in Hong Kong; stayed there last year and was very impressed.
This should be an interesting trip. Looking forward to the updates.
Sounds like a great trip!
I vote for some Jakarta hotel reviews - as it is an airport that has cheap fares/good award availability out of, so it would be great to see some reviews of the best places to stay when stopping there.
As an avgeek, take advantage of being in HKG to fly the China Eastern Comac C919 to SHA, just a short flight but pretty difficult to get anywhere else..
The Park Hyatt in Suzhou (near Shanghai) is exceptional. One of the best hard products you'll see out there. Some of the staff's English isn't great but apart from that you won't regret it. The city itself is also very pretty and just North of the PH is Times Square which is a nice area to walk around. Easiest is to get a hotel car but bullet train is mightily impressive as well. Suggest you...
The Park Hyatt in Suzhou (near Shanghai) is exceptional. One of the best hard products you'll see out there. Some of the staff's English isn't great but apart from that you won't regret it. The city itself is also very pretty and just North of the PH is Times Square which is a nice area to walk around. Easiest is to get a hotel car but bullet train is mightily impressive as well. Suggest you fly into SHA rather than PVG - it only takes 1 hour in the car rather than 2.
If you don't want to go to the pain of getting a visa for China there's a 240 hour transit visa. As long as you fly in from one country and fly out to a different country then it's a simple document to compete on arrival and it's free.
Macau is also good fun (the Grand Hyatt is very good) but not sure it's a place for little children to enjoy
I am anxious to hear about Hong Kong. I visited twice pre-covid. I live in the Philippines but worry about being arrested for no cause in China. We have huge issues between US and Philippines with China. Is it really politically safe?
Tks
Try the intra-asia flight to BKK or SGN on UA please!
Come home via Japan on either ANA or JAL.
I daare you to try to get into Luk Yu Tea House and eat on ground floor LOL. We did! OMG frozen in time.
Our (very) recent stay at Kimpton Tsim Sha Tsui was very satisfactory. Better view than Rosewood, since it's right across the street, a block farther from the water, but much higher. We stayed on 18th floor (about halfway up) with Central Harbour view and it far exceeded the expectations we had for Kimpton after staying with the brand in Tokyo Shinjuku. Wherever you stay, I might share that our afternoon tea at Peninsula was disappointing....
Our (very) recent stay at Kimpton Tsim Sha Tsui was very satisfactory. Better view than Rosewood, since it's right across the street, a block farther from the water, but much higher. We stayed on 18th floor (about halfway up) with Central Harbour view and it far exceeded the expectations we had for Kimpton after staying with the brand in Tokyo Shinjuku. Wherever you stay, I might share that our afternoon tea at Peninsula was disappointing. I too thought of the word "factory" the moment I entered the building. One more thing: for fun, visit Dr Fern's Gin Parlour at The Pottinger (74 Queens Road Central). Hong Kong is so special! Can't get enough
Just stayed at the Rosewood Hong Kong last week with Manor House access. Unbelievable.
Epic! Which room-types give best views of Victoria Peak from HK Rosewood?
I'd suggest Tonghua Night Market for a snack safari in Taipei.
Also, visiting Maokong mountain could be fun. You can get there by gondola, which is a part of the urban transportation network. You can easily connect from a MRT line. If you fancy, you can stop over at a ZOO station for a peek at pandas.
Maokong has great tea plantations, restaurants serving local tea and other fare, and some hiking trails.
I'd suggest Tonghua Night Market for a snack safari in Taipei.
Also, visiting Maokong mountain could be fun. You can get there by gondola, which is a part of the urban transportation network. You can easily connect from a MRT line. If you fancy, you can stop over at a ZOO station for a peek at pandas.
Maokong has great tea plantations, restaurants serving local tea and other fare, and some hiking trails.
National Museum is also a must.
I'd also suggest taking bikes for a spin along many bike paths along four main rivers, like Tamsui Riverside Bikeway, for example.
OK, enough of the fluff Tim. No one goes there to bike or see pandas.
Just say where can you go for the happy ending massages.
STOP TROLLING EESKIMO,
Stop making fun of people stuttering, especially when those people didn't even troll your thick knob.
No data about that, I am afraid.
Papaya milk at a night market could be a very satisfying alternative
The Murray I have heard good things about.
Great that you are coming back to Hong Kong! If you want to review some slightly lesser reviewed hotels, you may consider The Murray in Admiralty or, for something a bit more extraordinary in terms of location, The Fullerton Ocean Park.
As for airlines, I would love to see the new TG regional narrowbody lie-flat seat, or would you consider the KE 747-8 to ICN. Around Hong Kong, maybe consider as well a weekend in...
Great that you are coming back to Hong Kong! If you want to review some slightly lesser reviewed hotels, you may consider The Murray in Admiralty or, for something a bit more extraordinary in terms of location, The Fullerton Ocean Park.
As for airlines, I would love to see the new TG regional narrowbody lie-flat seat, or would you consider the KE 747-8 to ICN. Around Hong Kong, maybe consider as well a weekend in Shenzhen. I go there every other month and I love the hotels. The Conrad Shenzhen is probably my favorite, but there are a few other good choices. Don't love the Andaz other than for its location, but the park around it is nice, and you get to see a lot of airborne food delivery via drone.
Also, have you considered the new Park Hyatt in Phu Quoc? It's a bit an up and coming region here for travel. Not sure if I like it. It's somewhat strange, yet might try at some point.
Anyway, great to see you coming back to Hong Kong!
About your return flights, it depends when you return. If you are around the actual start or end of the Chinese New Year holiday it may be difficult or expensive, but other than that it should be fine.
About the hotels in Hong Kong from what you chose, I think the Rosewood is overpriced and not worth the money. I would suggest the St Regis if you can use the Marriott 85,000 certificates. The...
About your return flights, it depends when you return. If you are around the actual start or end of the Chinese New Year holiday it may be difficult or expensive, but other than that it should be fine.
About the hotels in Hong Kong from what you chose, I think the Rosewood is overpriced and not worth the money. I would suggest the St Regis if you can use the Marriott 85,000 certificates. The St Regis has typical St Regis service. The Penninsula as a guest really is not as much of a factory as you think it is from the lobby and the hotel has done a lot to control it. It is unfair of you to judge the hotel just from the appearance without any experience. I think if you like good, classic, traditional service then this is a good choice. I have stayed in sister properties of the Upper House before and I think it is an upscale boutique hotel and would not recommend it.
Carlyle & Co. has rooms on 54/F above Rosewood Hong Kong, with club access and use of Rosewood Residences facilities. They also have an ongoing collab with Hermes.
The Jakarta hotel shuffle with Park Hyatt and the Ritz-Carlton Pacific Place would interest me. TG operates the A330 with 1-1-1 coffin class to CGK if you want to sample that, too
Or the Langham, which is also a superb hotel (similar to Park Hyatt but better placed in the business district)
Definitely try The Murray, as others have suggested here.
Otherwise, as a long-term HK resident I'm happy to suggest places to eat and things to do - lots of new places just from the past year.
Baghdad… as mentioned before
Baghdad is far to ‘edgy’ for Mr Average American points hotel dependent traveller, yes Ben?
Stayed at The Upper House twice and absolutely loved it. They make you feel like family and everything is just so well done. That being said, selfishly I hope you review a points hotel since this trip seems very light on that aspect and you've been focusing mostly on flights rather than hotels lately.
I was born and raised in Hong Kong but immigrated to USA in 1985 although I still return annually to visit with family but only in the winter time, you can't pay me to go there in the summer. I've been to Taipei in recent years and it's probably one of the dullest cities I've ever visited. Other than the food there's nothing exciting about the city. Like the other commentator says, Jiu Fun is a hike and is super crowded in a small area, you won't enjoy it. I didn't.
Mikey is a 1997 gwailo.
Once again a racist post from “Eskimo”, is allowed to remain uncensored on this website.
It's as racist as using wanker knob at a British gringo snowflake.
But you've probably never set foot anywhere outside DEN and LHR so you wouldn't know what word is not even racist.
Why would any self respecting person ever take the likes of you seriously Eskimo?
You are nothing less than a rude, crude, racist ignoramus. However, you do provide endless opportunities to belittle the keyboard warriors of very little brain. Plus of course Ben tolerates you only because you provide him with clicks, yes?
Did I hurt your feelings you old useless wanker?
Did you losing the war still give you PTSD?
You're welcome.
"Aeromexico’s 787 business class from Tokyo (NRT) to Mexico City (MEX)"
Didn't you have this booked at one point within the last two years but cancelled it because it seemed, well like the least interesting way for you to get home?
If you're in the region, t'way could be a random/interesting choice for something regional with a premium cabin, but not sure there is a mile/point angle.
I think an ex-HKG/NRT UA 5th freedom UA...
"Aeromexico’s 787 business class from Tokyo (NRT) to Mexico City (MEX)"
Didn't you have this booked at one point within the last two years but cancelled it because it seemed, well like the least interesting way for you to get home?
If you're in the region, t'way could be a random/interesting choice for something regional with a premium cabin, but not sure there is a mile/point angle.
I think an ex-HKG/NRT UA 5th freedom UA review could be interesting. If you end up doing HKG-usa have you reviewed Polaris since your underwhelming covid flight?
SQ regional business does feel slightly underrepresented.
Sri Lankan to CMB? CMB is a great positioning gateway (like CAI, but CMB is still accessible for you), but few reviews of the local airline
Ben canceled not because it was least interesting but because he was gaslighted then was rubbed into his face fir doing so by the same person.
"visualise yourself flying Qsuites or Air France or JAL or something of that kind! ;)"
Yep after gaslight Ben into flying 737 on COPA and GOL, Proxima-CIE manage to rub Ben's not so good experience by getting Ben to visualise something much better.
Focus on hotels, please.
Why not return to Phnom Penh and review the hotels rather than that recent quirky connection you flew through new Techo? We're headed there in less than a year, are skipping Angkor Wat, and instead plan to spend three nights at Raffles.
None of these hotels are points hotels
I wish u focus rather on those
And I would appreciate if you could include Seoul
Not everyone is dependent upon “Points hotels” for accommodation.
Discerning travellers are more interested in a memorable stay, in a distinguished hotel, located in an exotic location.
It's a miles and points driven blog.
Exotic is also offensive.
Thick BA apologist walker.
Pathetic Esk, at its most graphical.
Nothing less than the dog’s excrement under DDT’s boots, yes?
HK Peninsula pre-pandemic was excellent, lobby popularity not withstanding
Absolutely try to get on the Air Astana 767. I've had the pleasure of flying their A320 on the short hop from Almaty to Astana, during which they managed drinks, nuts, and a hot meal on the 35 minute flight. You could review the Ritz-Carlton Almaty, St. Regis Astana, and the weird but charming Rixos properties. Either city would be a fine place to kill a couple of days.
Ben, this is a completely insane idea, but look at Turkmenistan Airlines. They have decent (~$1200 fares from KUL/SGN/BKK-LGW/FRA/MXP) and it would be quite interesting.
They can be a bit sensitive about photography though.
Would love your take on the new HKG Kimpton in TST
Why not go via mainland China and review some airlines that you have not reviewed or re-review China Southern / Air China / China Eastern newer planes and see if they changed their services. They are trying to be more open to tourists and have visa free 15 days for many from the OECD countries.
Or skip, because they haven't changed and will only trigger your PTSD.
For Taipei, I would recommend go to Palace Museum as it has the best (imperial) Chinese antique collection in the world. Better than any museums in China. Taipei 101 is a must. Shi-men Ting for gay nightlife. Lungshan Temple for Buddhist/Taoism culture. Dihua Street for nicknacks to take home or just to observe what Taiwanese buy for Chinese New year (since you will be there around CNY). If natural hot spring/ RnR is what you...
For Taipei, I would recommend go to Palace Museum as it has the best (imperial) Chinese antique collection in the world. Better than any museums in China. Taipei 101 is a must. Shi-men Ting for gay nightlife. Lungshan Temple for Buddhist/Taoism culture. Dihua Street for nicknacks to take home or just to observe what Taiwanese buy for Chinese New year (since you will be there around CNY). If natural hot spring/ RnR is what you are looking for, head to Villa 32 (30 minutes taxi ride from Capella). It's a Relais et Chateaux property. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in the city.
From HKG fly to Tokyo to visit the newly opened Tokyo Park Hyatt. Then head to Guam. Review some resorts there then take United Island Hopper back to Honolulu! I mean isn't that on your bucket list?
I appreciate that you still chase a 72,500 mile TPAC redemption rather then tell everyone to spend 500k chase points on a $10k hotel suite like some influencers
Ben - went to HK in Feb and stayed at most of these hotels similar to you.
Upper House - you will see when you go. It's outstanding. Yes doesn't have much by way of amenities but the service is world-class (they let us check in at 6 AM for free, food is superb, location great - I much prefer the main island to Kowloon)
Ritz Carlton - yes well past its prime. Nothing...
Ben - went to HK in Feb and stayed at most of these hotels similar to you.
Upper House - you will see when you go. It's outstanding. Yes doesn't have much by way of amenities but the service is world-class (they let us check in at 6 AM for free, food is superb, location great - I much prefer the main island to Kowloon)
Ritz Carlton - yes well past its prime. Nothing special.
Four Seasons - second best hotel in HK after the UH. Very good pool as well even though it can get crowded.
Peninsula - spot on. It's iconic but ground floor is a zoo. Rates overpriced for what it is generally.
Hit up the Starlux Flagship store while you're there. It's mainly a place to handle Starlux reservations but they have a large merch section!
From Hong Kong you could fly Finnair to Helsinki and review those strange non-reclining business class seats.
You could fly to Bangkok on Ethiopian’s fifth freedom route.
Or what about Royal Brunei to Bandar? Might be risky though as a same-sex couple.
Please don’t. Finnair is unreliable. If they fail, you’ll get stuck… in HEL.
No Delta?
Fantastic choices. Looking forward to your Taipei adventure (I presume you and Ford will be replicating the 'free solo' of Taipei 101).
Peninsula HK is not a luxury factory! It’s super empty now since the mainlanders who go visit hk now aren’t the old wealthy ones. they’re also generous with upgrades. service has gone down hill though, last time they had a random needle lying on the floor that stabbed me straight through my foot and they took forever to send someone who only brought bandages until i called for the front desk and they took it more seriously.
Why not at least do 1 night in Maco. There is a is a Four Seasons connected to the Venetian so you get a Four Seasons experience with access to everything that The Venetian offers. There is also a St. Regis and a Banyan Tree (now part of Accor). Rounding it out is a Ritz-Carlton and Mandarin Oriental. Macao can be reached via ferry and bus via the new bridge.
Years of use and we still prefer The Peninsula, Kowloon. However, it might be too rich for some to consider.
I’m a massive HKG fan too, and have a few night s stay planned for later in the year. I’d love it if you stayed at the Upper House as I’m super keen to hear your thoughts on that one. Another thought, and where we’ve stayed the last few times, is The Murray. It’s wonderful. Looking forward to hearing all about the trip though….!
Ben - do Air Astana
Though you should definitely take time to properly visit Central Asia
While not Kazakhstan, he has visited Uzbekistan already; I still remember his train ride!
That was a great ride, lol!
Can’t wait to read this report :) it looks like Air Astana flies to Thailand. So maybe fly Thai airways to Thailand then Air Astana to Kazakhstan and then get to ZRH somehow to try Swiss Senses!
As an Avgeek, you may want to try Star Hutong near Taipei 101. It is Starlux themed restaurant serving dishes from their various destinations
taipei tips:
The area around your hotel is somewhat dull please do be sure to venture out, especially to the more west side of town along the river.
Jiu Fun is not worth the hype and it's a trek to get there.
Night Markets can be obnoxiously crowded on weekends so if you can do them on a weeknight. Don't feel obligated to trek out to the Keelung market, theres plenty of good...
taipei tips:
The area around your hotel is somewhat dull please do be sure to venture out, especially to the more west side of town along the river.
Jiu Fun is not worth the hype and it's a trek to get there.
Night Markets can be obnoxiously crowded on weekends so if you can do them on a weeknight. Don't feel obligated to trek out to the Keelung market, theres plenty of good markets in Taipei to keep you satisfied.
The Elephant Mountain hike is iconic and easy to get to since it's literally a few blocks from Taipei 101. But it can be sweaty depending on the weather and time of day.
Taipei tips:
You shouldn't get tips from people with names from a different city.
I.E.
Don't trust Tokyo tips from JonNYC.
Don't trust Sydney tips from UA-NYC.
Don't trust Miami tips from ORD_Is_My_Second_Home.
Don't get gaslight by VT-cimanova.
So think again about Taipei tips from someone with DEN.
Find a routes with air Indian 777 (old) New ek350 and new ek 777 biz to Mia
Ben.
You should let Proxima-CIE gaslight you into doing something stupid.
Arguably the best museum of Chinese history and historical art in the world is the National Palace Museum in Taipei. If you are at all interested in museums, you shouldn't miss it.
There's also a vibrant gay scene around the Red House in Ximending.
Agree with Rich. China got the buildings. Taipei (at the National Palace Museum) got the "stuff". Exquisite artifacts---especially jade carvings and porcelains.
Second that. You can easily spend a lot of time in this museum.
Take the UA flight to BKK. From BKK hike over to SIN and then back to SFO in UA.
I stayed at the Capella in BKK which is fantastic and owned by the same company who owns the FS next door. The FS is much larger and more posh and the Capella more of a boutique with great service. Be sure to go to the evening cocktails in the "Living Room".
Hi Ben,
How do you search Flying Blue program to find partner redemptions on CI for a routing such as PHX to TPE?
I only get 'Sorry, there are no flights available on this date. Please try again' even with the calendar view search.
No result either with searching for AM flights MEX-ICN. Only shows flights on AFKL own metal. Am I missing something or is there a trick?
Flying Blue shows a lot of phantom CI availability. Most reliable routes are PHX (what Lucky booked) and YVR
Besides the popular tourist attractions, book a tour to experience The Grand Hotel Taipei secret underground slides/tunnels (East and West). Built during the 70s-era, air-raid and explosion proof. Well worth to visit.
I know you’re not a gambler, but I’d be curious about your take on some Macau properties, such as Wynn Macau, Wynn Palace, or The Londoner. The restaurants at Wynn Macau are truly brilliant.
Macau is just a bus or ferry ride away from Hong Kong. Just tossing this idea out there like dice on a craps table. I figure it’ll seven out. But who knows?
As for flight options, I’d be curious how...
I know you’re not a gambler, but I’d be curious about your take on some Macau properties, such as Wynn Macau, Wynn Palace, or The Londoner. The restaurants at Wynn Macau are truly brilliant.
Macau is just a bus or ferry ride away from Hong Kong. Just tossing this idea out there like dice on a craps table. I figure it’ll seven out. But who knows?
As for flight options, I’d be curious how you’d book the new SWISS first class, but I imagine it’s not terribly different from LH F on the A350, which you reviewed not too long ago.
I suppose this trip could set you up to at last fly Starlux first class from TPE to somewhere within Asia or beyond (and that’s one of the few first class products you’ve yet to formally review).
Anyways, sounds like you’ve got some great fun ahead of you. I’m writing this from CGK T3, about to head back home tomorrow. Cheers!
You're going to end up in Pyongyang, aren't you? Just to review Air Koryo?
Don't act like you'd turn down the opportunity! :D
My brother and I are heading to Taipei and Hong Kong w/o 02/01, after spending a few days in Bangkok.
YES TAIWAN ❤️ FREEDOM & DEMOCRACY
NO HONG KONG COMMUNIST DICTATORSHIP
^this
I have so many thoughts here, but I'll just leave it at please book the Peninsula for your first stay and book their helicopter transfer from the airport. Would LOVE to see a review of that, and what a way to see the city.
I have always loved Rosewood HK, despite it being a large property. Hoping you have an amazing experience there too.
Take the highspeed rail to Guangzhou, try out the Rosewood and Four Seasons there (some of the tallest hotels in the world), I think it would be an unique experience for you.
Yes to this, a quick foray to mainland China or Macau
For Hong Kong, you could try booking an N2 room at The Murray with your GHA Titanium status, they are quite generous with upgrades, and I actually quite like the location in Central (as long as it's not during summer). I think it's an underrated hotel. K11 Artus is very close to the Rosewood and could be an interesting option. You've covered most of the major chains.
PH Jakarta really is top notch imo, and...
For Hong Kong, you could try booking an N2 room at The Murray with your GHA Titanium status, they are quite generous with upgrades, and I actually quite like the location in Central (as long as it's not during summer). I think it's an underrated hotel. K11 Artus is very close to the Rosewood and could be an interesting option. You've covered most of the major chains.
PH Jakarta really is top notch imo, and both hardware and service beats PH KL imo. But since you're thinking of flying Thai Airways, you could also do a Bangkok trip and cover a whole lot of hotels too. The ex-World's Best Hotel Capella BKK, the Aman BKK (which I would recommend as the first hotel to stay at, since it includes fast track on arrival and hotel transfer), and the recently opened Andaz Bangkok.
Also, HKG-TPE-West Coast is $8k USD one way in First Class on STARLUX in Feb.
Nice - we’re on the same vibe!
I returned on Friday from JFK-VIE-BKK-TPE in OS/BR J for 88K and SGN-HND-DFW in JL F for 110K.
Off-peak travel is where it’s at these days.
As for another hotel in HK: What about the K11 Artus? Though, the Upper House certainly is a fantastic property.
As for after HK: My vote would either go to Jakarta, or some other hotels in BKK (from where you could easily fly with Air Astana, or if you're adventurous, Uzbekistan Airways) like the new Andaz One Bangkok.
+1 vote for Langham Hong Kong. Since it's priced in the $300s I bet many of your readers would be interested in seeing that considering it's a good value use of the $300 Amex FHR credit. I'd also love to see your re-review of the Ritz Hong Kong given its impressive height. That's long been on my bucket list!
I think hotel reviews in Jakarta are going to be amazing, especially given how reasonably priced they are. Who’d say no to the Park Hyatt Jakarta?!
Would you ever consider trying zipair or air premia?
@ RandomTwoCents -- I've done ZIPAIR, see the review below. :-)
https://onemileatatime.com/reviews/zipair-full-flat-business-class-787/
I'm open to doing Air Premia as well, though can't say it has been near the top of my list. That being said, if enough people are interested, I'm happy to!
Thanks for the response. I ask because I probably would not try these airlines unless people like you review it beforehand.
It always seems like an option if I can't find a award redemption but so far it hasn't come to that yet that
I would be interested in a review of Air Premia. Given that Asiana will not be bookable for miles next year, it may be a low cost cash option as Korean Air awards seems to become very sparse.
Try the Rosewood Guangzhou.
With Ben’s German passport, he probably could go to the mainland visa free for a short visit.
Would love to get a Hong Kong Airlines review again to see how they're holding up, they seem to have reasonable fares to BKK, so you could combine it with a Thai A321neo review. I know it might not necessarily be the most comfortable, but it might also be cool to fly the IndiGo A321XLR from Delhi to Athens - Thai flies their A321neos to Delhi so you could also combine those two.
I recently flew CI from the US to TPE and enjoyed it very much... no more library with books onboard though (which I remember from Ben's review around 10 years ago). Soft product better than EVA I thought, seat maybe marginally better on EVA. Tea menu on EVA is amazing.
Was at Park Hyatt Jakarta last month and hotel is amazing with room view straight on Monas ( National Monument) park, luxury vibe, great food and staff, and crazy bargain at 12000 points for night , but suggest you also new Keraton right in Jakarta center, all club lounge just reopening last year and at just 20.000 Hyatt point at night
I also had a terrific stay at PH Jakarta, but it is conference/event central. If I were only going to Jakarta for a night and not doing any touring, I'd choose the Four Seasons as you avoid the craze of center city (not that there isn't still crazy traffic).
I didn't get to see Keraton, but I do know people love it. A friend who goes all the time for work said it's his go-to now.
@Ben, PH Jakarta have a habit of closing rooftop food/drink spaces for weddings and other private events. Afternoon tea also gets sold out to many non-guests. It seems to be approaching the 3rd type from your post on hotel restaurants.
They also had water stains and peeling paint on the ceiling of the sauna/hot tub area a year or two ago. Not cool for an almost brand new hotel.
Also - second Jiufen and the waterfall nearby. And... the Starlux themed 7/11 is right next to the Capella and sells all the Starlux merch :)
I recommend a free walking tour with the Taipei Greeters. If you don’t know the International Greeter Organization, you should! What makes them unique is it’s really, really free. Tips are strictly prohibited, though always nice to take your Greeter to lunch, or for coffee along the walk. I did a walk with the Taipei Greeters a year ago, FANTASTIC! Be sure to book well in advance!
https://internationalgreeter.org/destinations/taipei
I recommend a side trip from Taipei to Jiufen...as seen in the anime movie 'Spirited Away'. It's less than an hour away.
I still remember you taking a taxi to the W Taipei; you loved the Bliss toiletries at the same time enjoyed having ice cream for breakfast!; I did the same about a few months later after you hah.
Yes, I do remember those little details! ;)
@ Mike O. -- Your memory never ceases to amaze me, and I very much appreciate the interest! :-)
That's not the only thing I remember haha and you're welcome. While you're at it, say hi to your dad. Miles & Jet, Ford and Winston :D
And I just realized that's all the way back from 2013! I've been a constant fixture here for quite a while now.
Check out the Miniatures Museum in Taipei.
Maybe Philippine Airlines new A35K to JFK?
How about Condor's A339s via FRA and HKT?
@ Mike O. -- I've reviewed Condor's A330neo, so I feel like there's not a whole lot new there since the last time I flew it? :-)
https://onemileatatime.com/reviews/condor-business-class-a330-900neo/
You are right. I did not notice this review. What about Air Tanzania from Guangzhou to ZNZ and then onwards? I seem to remember you being interested in them some years ago
If you do the Jakarta Hotel Shuffle, I would throw in the Mandarin Oriental there too for comparison sake
Looking forward to reading about this trip! I’ll be going to Asia in August (starting in Taipei and ending in Hong Kong), so I should get some good info from your trip. Also booked the XLR on my journey home to PHX from JFK just to try it out (got it at a good award rate but I’m extending my trip a night to do it). Tempted to stay at the TWA hotel on that layover add to the AvGeek level.
Ben, I know that review flights and hotels for a living, and it's a privilege to do so, but I'm curious if you ever get tired of doing something like three hotels in four days. Do you ever think deep down, I'd really just like to stay put for a few days ...
@ Malc -- 100% I do. In an ideal world, I'd stay at one hotel for my entire time in a city, so that I can have less of a focus on checking out every aspect of hotels, and more of a focus on the destination. However, it's always tough to strike the right balance, and I also know people enjoy reviews of different products.
Stayed at Regent HK back in November 2024. Can confirm the view was incredibly breathtaking. Conveniently located next to ferries and subway as well! Would 10/10 recommend!
Good opportunity to fly Starlux F since you're in the region.
Just saying!
@ yoloswag420 -- As you know, as soon as there's any opportunity to fly it for under $9K one-way across the Pacific, I'm in! I'm open to doing it short haul, but that also seems silly. I still feel like the airline will eventually have to introduce some new opportunity for monetizing the cabin.
Stayed at the Regent 2 years ago. Beautiful hotel, but only worth it if the weather in Hong Kong cooperates! On a clear day, 100% worth it especially considering sometimes it’s less than 80k points/night. The views are fantastic. However if its rainy or foggy, maybe Peninsula or Mandarin Oriental would be better
HKG-TPE-West Coast is $8k USD one way on STARLUX in Feb.
Looks like NASTY LITTLE FARONKEY's comments has been Purged! Great day for OMAAT and its many GREAT and likewise WONDERFUL commenters!! I grew very tired very quickly of his disrespectful and mean-spirited commentaries! Thank you!
Recommendations for Taipei:
Yang Shin Vegetarian Dim Sum - among the best I've ever had
And of course see all the Hello Kitty stuff... both in the airport terminal with the EVA checkin counters and shops, and in the city including the branded 7-11 stores
You could fly HKG-ICN on Korean Air's new A350 business class (might be award space/cheap fare), and ICN-YVR in T'Way A330 business class (going for around US$1,100)? Or Hawaiian to Seattle? Or fly out of Gimpo and do a Japanese airline (which for some reason seems to be cheaper than flying out of Incheon)? ICN is really great for cheaper origin fares.
@ Alvin | YTHK -- That's a fun and very creative idea, thanks!
The Rosewood HK is incredible, I hope you get a suite, they are incredible and most importantly it gives you access to the Manor Club - which had really great food although it's always a better idea to eat out in HK. It was one of my favorite hotel stays ever. Room design looks a little random on the pictures, but in person it's stunning.
I would recommend against the Peninsula - I went...
The Rosewood HK is incredible, I hope you get a suite, they are incredible and most importantly it gives you access to the Manor Club - which had really great food although it's always a better idea to eat out in HK. It was one of my favorite hotel stays ever. Room design looks a little random on the pictures, but in person it's stunning.
I would recommend against the Peninsula - I went a couple of months ago and it was completely forgettable. Like you said, "luxury" factory with lots of influencers and the likes, rooms are nothing special and neither is service.
Which room-types give best views of Victoria Peak from HK Rosewood?
1990, why stay in that soulless box when The Peninsula, is just up the street?
The hotel that any true Hong Kong native prefers is the Mandarin Oriental. I have tons of friends from Hong Kong and that's the only hotel they even really consider for out of town guests or look at with much esteem. Definitely consider it. And it's the original Mandarin Oriental, not the Landmark one.
You are going to love Regent Hongkong. Nothing beats waking up with a view of sunrise on Victoria Harbour. Why not going into mainland China from Hongkong? Maybe hop on the train from Hongkong to Guangzhou or Shenzen. Just less than 1-2 hours on high speed train away, you may find same level of luxury but at a much more affordable price than Hongkong.
Yeah, mainland China is one of the options. I'm flying to HKG on Wednesday and taking ferry to Shenzhen to stay there for couple of days. And then back to HK on high speed train or maybe hoping to Guangzhou for a day, before HK.
Just spent some time choosing hotels in both places. St Regis in Shenzhen is very tall building. Might be something interesting.
In my case, I'm flying simple route LHR - PKX - HKG RT on China Southern. I'm not reviewer, just a flyer.
There are now two St. Regis in Shenzhen. I’m guessing you’re referring to the older one, since you described it as a “very tall building” — it was indeed once the tallest building in the city. It’s a nice hotel with a classic 2000s sense of luxury, but you definitely start to see signs of wear and tear. I personally would recommend the newer St. Regis in Baoan District, which opened just last year. It...
There are now two St. Regis in Shenzhen. I’m guessing you’re referring to the older one, since you described it as a “very tall building” — it was indeed once the tallest building in the city. It’s a nice hotel with a classic 2000s sense of luxury, but you definitely start to see signs of wear and tear. I personally would recommend the newer St. Regis in Baoan District, which opened just last year. It has a much more modern vibe and better reflects the current trend of Shenzhen.
Go to a night market in Taipei! Can't go wrong with any of them but if you're there for a few days you could try a few different ones. I went to Raohe and it was wonderful (and I went early as it opened so was able to make 2 passes and not have to wait in some of the longer lines, though it meant not everything was open).
You could also take the high...
Go to a night market in Taipei! Can't go wrong with any of them but if you're there for a few days you could try a few different ones. I went to Raohe and it was wonderful (and I went early as it opened so was able to make 2 passes and not have to wait in some of the longer lines, though it meant not everything was open).
You could also take the high speed rail and explore others parts of Taiwan besides Taipei that might be a bit quieter -- or perhaps a day trip if you've already got the reservation at the Capella.
And imagine you would enjoy the Starlux-themed 7-11 (https://taiwanderers.com/starlux-themed-7-eleven-taipei-taiwan/) too :)
Just visited Taipei. What a great city. Best Night Market for food is Raohe St Night Market. Michelin recommended Black Pepper Pork Buns. On Chifeng St in Zhongshan, try Chiyin Chicken Ramen. Get there relatively early for shorter line. So worth the wait and a great neighborhood to walk around. Also walk around and shop in Ximending and Xinyi!
You could try and work in China Airlines A321neo or Malaysia Airlines A330neo
Ao you’ll be flying MIA-JFK-LAX-PHX-TPE just to get to Taiwan? Ouch.
you must be new here. this is a review blog. to review different products.
No, not new here. But even for review purposes, that is one heck of a positioning route. Especially since only half of those routes will be probably be reviewed.
Nice try, though.
@ Aaron -- Hah, indeed. And yes, JFK-LAX and PHX-TPE will be reviewed. But there's another reason to go to New York, as I'll have a hotel review there as well (which I haven't yet written about here). :-)
@Ben - The Aman perhaps? :)
Safe travels to NYC. We’ve had a lot of snow in the past day. Cleaned up quickly today. Should be nice and ready for February!
Uh oh, American, yet no Delta? Tom "The Dunce" Deuce's nipples will be chafing hard out of anger!
Having spent two months this fall living in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, this is where I recommend you visit after HK. A lot of Americans don't have a clue as to how amazing a country Malaysia is and how vibrant and modern KL is. Plus, since you like luxury hotels, you have excellent choices in KL, including the recently completed Park Hyatt at the top of the second tallest building in the world, Merdeka 118.
Ben reviewed the PH KL in November:
https://onemileatatime.com/insights/park-hyatt-kuala-lumpur-hotel/
Maybe the ambassador-only lounge at Osaka Station?
Keeping an eye out for imitation first on Skylux PHX-TPE?
Check out breeze right across from Capella- small but one of my favs when I visit!
"Then from Taipei to Hong Kong (HKG), we’ll be flying Cathay Pacific’s regional A330 business class, which I haven’t reviewed in some time either."
Last minute swaps can happen especially on a such short flight. You can get everything from the 77W, 773 down to the A359.
And on a flight out of Hong Kong, snag a seat on the right hand side for great views of the city as well as a parallel departure (if the weather is nice and you're lucky! (excuse the pun))
This makes me think of one of my favorite stories around word origins. The word POSH came about when passenger ships would leave London. The more expensive seats had the better view. Hence Port Outbound, Starboard Home.
@Tom I, that's an urban tale or folk etymology. The exact origin of the word posh is uncertain.
It was also about the heat in sailing ships before aircon. A cabin facing west (starboard side) heading to The Cape of Good Hope every afternoon got bloody hot, whereas one on the other side was cooler.
hiking in Hong Kong
Oh yeah. Hike the morning trail on the peak. It is a bit over an hour but amazing scenery. Take the peak tram but don’t get the ticket to that observation tower (packed with tourists), then just hike the trail.
This won't help your question, but it would be interesting to see some expanded commentary from this line:
"'luxury factory,' with the lobby overflowing with non-hotel guests"
I know exactly what you're talking about, but am wondering more specifically what you think of these places and how it has an effect on which hotels you choose to stay at
@ betterbub -- Great topic! Stay tuned, I'll cover this in a post shortly.