I've personally found CX to be one of the very best airlines in terms of customer service. Just so you are aware, the next time you have a tight connection at HKG, you can ask the nearest CX gate rep to call over the electric airport cart. For a nominal fee, it will whisk you to Customs ahead of everyone else. Also, if you fly to HKG frequently consider getting an HKIA Frequent Visitor Card. You won't even have to speak with a Customs agent using this method in a majority of instances.
In any case, I would appeal to Cathay with a polite, typewritten letter requesting remuneration for your hotel stay and an apology. Send a copy to headquarters in Hong Kong and the local LAX office. They may very well oblige. In my own experience, CX beats all the alternative airlines serving Hong Kong hands down.
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