Well the best way of explaining how we felt about this hotel was the fact that we didn't even stay there for one night - we found an alternative hotel which we had to pay a lot extra for but this is probably the one and only time we visit Hong Kong and our first hour or two at The Grand Harbour told us it would not make it an enjoyable one.

We arrived in the rain (not unusual) on a Saturday afternoon (not ideal timing) and then proceeded to wait in a queue to check in...for an hour! Once we finally got to the front of the queue it was clear why the queue was so long. It was such an inefficient check in process. We also found out while waiting they made an offer during the week before and they had over 500 rooms checking in - hence the chaos. But reading reviews later it is clear that the slow check in is a regular thing (that they should quickly be able to fix).

We got our room keys finally and went up to our 'harbour view room' only to find we'd been given a city room. So went back down to reception and this time didn't wait, and got new keys finally. So we went back up again two lifts with suitcases) to our new room which was very underwhelming and smelt very smokey (for a non smoking room). We sat for the next hour trying to work out what to do, and in the end made the decision to move.

We handed our keys back in, made our complaint, got told they'd move us again (no thanks) and left. At this point the queue looked still to be an hour long.

This is an OK hotel, but is massive, with so many people about, and the service is honestly the worst I've come across. I do think we were unlucky with the timing of arrival, and the reception person we got, but this hotel needs to take note of their reviews and make improvements.

Bayside Harbour cafe/bar is the best!! Right out side of the hotel. Farra took such good care of us the entire time we visited!! You need to stop by, have a drink and enjoy the views. It’s a beautiful hotel on the harbor. But you must visit Farra at the Bayside

Sharing a preliminary review of the hotel…

I booked 2 rooms via the hotel website. Reservation for one room was confirmed but the other was shown as pending payment even though my card was charged for 2 rooms. It took numerous emails and IDD calls (at my own expense) to finally get the matter addressed by the hotel. Definitely not a good start…

As Marriott Titanium member, I could have just play safe by choosing a hotel under the Marriott chain, but I decided to try Harbour Grand due to positive experience previously when I stayed there for a conference.

Anyway, will update the review on the overall experience with the hotel after my stay in Sep 2024…