The Putman All Suite Hotel

Like the other hotels in the National Hotels group, The Putman feels like having your own private residence in the heart of Hong Kong. While we normally would want extras like a pool and spa, it's hard to argue with the pared down list of features here, especially when the trade-off is a massive, posh suite and relatively low rates. It's a calm and private place, with little to distinguish it from the city's many luxury condominium developments. With that in mind, and with its lack of public features, The Putman is best for independent travelers or long-stay guests who value space, intimacy, and style over on-site destination dining and drinking. Expect a mix of business and leisure travelers here. 

The Putman has a great location right between two of Hong Kong's coolest neighborhoods. To the west is Sheung Wan, which is home to antique markets, ancient temples, local cuisine, and upmarket trendy dining spots. To the east is Soho, where the bulk of the city's tourist and ex-pat friendly nightlife is found. You can reach the center of either neighborhood in five minutes on foot. The MTR is also incredibly close, with an entrance to the Sheung Wan MTR station essentially at the end of the block. There's a cafe downstairs for breakfast, plus several cute coffee shops along the same street. Trips to Tsim Sha Tsui on Kowloon Island take about 20 minutes, with one change, while Central is only one stop away on the same line. Budget an hour to reach the airport by Airport Express train and the MTR. The same trip will take 30 to 45 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic. 

For the nightly rates on offer here, you're getting far more than your money will buy you in other upscale Hong Kong hotels. That's because the suites -- which make up the majority of the hotel's inventory -- are full-floor units. From one end to the other, you'll find a kitchenette plus dining and living areas, a separate bedroom area, and a massive bathroom that includes a soaking tub (with city views) and rainfall shower. 

The style is simple and contemporary, with touches of light wood and shades of gray, tan, and white found throughout. The design highlight in the suites is the wall of windows, which literally extend the width of the building. It's a rare hotel in Hong Kong that offers this, and the vertigo-inducing views from upper floors is something incredible. Other features include electric blind controls, climate control in each room, flat-screen TVs and entertainment centers, Frette linens, Nespresso machines, electric kettles, washer/dryers, Handy phones with unlimited data, and free Wi-Fi. While bathrooms are chic, there is a noticeable lack of outlets for shavers or hairdryers.

Suites here feel incredibly private, with each having its own entrance and floor of the hotel. There's plenty of storage and closet space for those on longer journeys. Keep in mind that standard hotel-style rooms are available as well.

There aren't too many features here, as the hotel offers an urban condo experience rather than a resort-like stay. The front desk acts as a concierge and is staffed around the clock. There's also a cafe next door that offers discounted set breakfasts. A simple fitness center has enough equipment for a basic workout. Wi-Fi is free and there's an attractive, naturally lit meeting room as well.