Rambler Oasis Hotel

There is almost one thing and one thing alone that makes this hotel so popular: its rates are often 60 percent lower than even the cheapest budget hotels in central Hong Kong. However, those rates will come with some sacrifices. For starters, the hotel is not convenient for anyone who prefers walking or using nearby metro stations. The immediate area is fairly uninspiring, and the only real views available at the hotel are of the industrial container terminal next door. That being said, if you don't mind being herded around in tour groups or relying on pricey taxis (or the hotel's infrequent shuttle to the MTR station), you will be paying next to nothing for a hotel that -- on the surface at least -- is pleasant enough. The outdoor pool is a lovely place to cool off in Hong Kong's often steamy weather, and interiors are done in pleasing neutral hues as well as stone and marble. Keep in mind that this is a major destination for group tours who flood in at night after days spent shopping and touring Hong Kong's more central districts. As such, it often feels abandoned during the day, and insanely busy in the mornings and evenings. 

Location is not this hotel's strong suit -- that's reserved for its low nightly rates. Technically the hotel is in Tsing Yi, a northwestern suburb of Hong Kong. It's a fairly charmless part of the city, and the closest neighbor of note is the container port that's next door to the hotel. There are almost no restaurants nearby, save for the few shops and eateries found at the shopping arcade within a five-minute walk. Otherwise, the hotel shares its development with residential towers and is surrounded by highways. It's a 10-minute drive to the closest MTR station, Tsing Yi, which is not within walking distance. You can use the hotel's once-hourly shuttle, pay for a taxi, or opt for a local minibus to reach it. From there, it's around a 25 to 35 minute metro ride, with a transfer, to Tsim Sha Tsui. It's about 10 minutes more to reach Central, on Hong Kong Island. A taxi ride to Tsim Sha Tsui takes around the same amount of time, depending on traffic, though will cost significantly more. It's a 25-minute drive to the airport from here by taxi. The Airport Express train also stops at Tsing Yi station, making trips to the airport by public transit relatively easy as well. 

Rooms here are just about expected for the category and rates, with a look that consists of simple wood-veneer furniture and light tones. Softly hued paintings depicting Hong Kong hang on the wall, and some rooms add bright bed runners. Floor plans are compact, which isn't surprising for this price point in Hong Kong. Categories range from Superior to Business Rooms, with either twin or double bed configurations available. Features include the necessities: flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and free Handy Phones, which serve as Wi-Fi hotspots. Business Rooms have small desks, and all rooms feature mirrored wardrobes. Bathrooms are similarly compact, with stall showers, pump soap dispensers, hairdryers, and towels provided. Views either look on the surrounding residential development or the neighboring container terminal. 

Features here are on par with suburban mid-range properties around the world, though it's a rare hotel in this category in Hong Kong that manages to add a pool. The Rambler Oasis' outdoor pool is a lovely space that's great for cooling off on a hot Hong Kong day. It has a zero-entry end that's ideal for families, and there's plenty of space that helps to keep it from becoming crowded, even though it was definitely popular during our visit. Up above, the hotel has a Sky Garden that consists of several semi-enclosed areas with water features and seating areas that are pleasant enough places to kick back later in the day. The gym is another highlight, with a nice selection of cardio and weight-training equipment and lots of natural light. The hotel's buffet restaurant doesn't score high marks, and is particularly busy at breakfast. Previous guests have reported limited quantities and choices, particularly at breakfast. A free hourly shuttle runs to the Tsing Yi MTR station, and free Wi-Fi is available in public areas.