Shanghai's BEST Hotel? Novotel Hongqiao's SHOCKING Secret!
Shanghai's BEST Kept Secret? Novotel Hongqiao: More Than Meets The Eye (and a REALLY Good Pool)
Okay, listen up, because I’m about to spill the tea (and maybe a little Tsingtao) on Shanghai's "best" hotel. I’ve been holed up, exploring Shanghai in a way that the shiny travel pamphlets don't even hint at. And guess what? I think I’ve found a real hidden gem nestled in the bustling Hongqiao district: the Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao.
Now, before you roll your eyes and think, "Oh, another Novotel review?", let me tell you – this one's different. This isn't some sterile corporate experience. This place has… character. And honestly, the "shocking secret" isn't some secret underground speakeasy (though, one can dream!), but it's surprisingly good at nearly everything. Okay, maybe not everything, but we'll get to that.
First Impressions & Accessibility - Feeling Like a Boss (and a Little Clumsy):
Alright, let's be real – arriving in a foreign city is always a bit chaotic. Getting to the Novotel was surprisingly easy, thanks to the efficient airport transfer service. The car park [on-site] is also a big plus, especially if you've braved driving in Shanghai traffic (which, kudos to you!). I was immediately struck by the hotel's modern, sleek exterior. The elevator access is flawless; I could see it easily being a solid choice for anyone needing facilities for disabled guests. I mean, the whole place screams accessible. The front desk [24-hour] staff were genuinely helpful, which is a massive relief after a long flight. Check-in/out [express] is available, which is brilliant for a quick turnaround, like a ninja.
My initial thought? This place felt… clean. Like, REALLY clean. I'm talking seriously impressed with their hygiene certification and all the anti-viral cleaning products. It's comforting, especially in the current climate. The sheer number of hand sanitizers everywhere? Gold star.
The Room: My Temporary Palace (Perfect, Except for the Minor Annoyance):
My room? Excellent. Like, truly excellent. The initial wow factor was the space. The air conditioning was blasting (thank the heavens!), the blackout curtains were a lifesaver after those jet lag nights, and the free Wi-Fi in all rooms! was a godsend. I swear, I spend half my life tethered to the internet.
Let’s dive into the details of available in-room experience: The additional toilet, the comfy sofa, the alarm clock, the bathrobes, the bathroom phone (why do they still have these?!), the bathtub, the carpet, the closet space, the coffee/tea maker, the complimentary tea, the desk for getting some work done, the extra long bed (praise be!), the hairdryer, the in-room safe box, the interconnecting room(s) available (great for families), the ironing facilities (saved my life!), the laptop workspace, the linens, the mini bar (tempting, but I'm a water drinker), the mirror, the on-demand movies, the private bathroom, the reading light, the refrigerator, the satellite/cable channels, the scale (the fear, the fear!), the seating area, the separate shower/bathtub, the shower, the smoke detector, the socket near the bed, the soundproofing (bliss!), the telephone, the toiletries, the towels, the umbrella, the visual alarm, the wake-up service, the window that opens (FRESH AIR!).
But, there was one itsy-bitsy thing. Okay, maybe more than one, but one, in particular, slightly annoying. The internet was, frankly, a little slow, sometimes. Not a dealbreaker, especially with the Internet access – wireless, but I had some issues while trying to work. I mean, it happened, and if you're relying on the Internet access – LAN (which I eventually did, for speed), be prepared for a bit of a wait. Other than that, perfect.
Food, Glorious Food! Dining, Drinking, and Snacking Adventures:
Okay, let’s talk about the most important part: the food! I’m a foodie, through and through. And while the Asian cuisine in restaurant was fantastic (the dim sum was DIVINE!), the Western cuisine in restaurant also impressed me. And, don’t you dare skip the breakfast [buffet]! It's epic. Seriously, it had EVERYTHING. I was particularly fond of the coffee/tea in restaurant, especially after a long day. The a la carte in restaurant choices are also good. They also have a snack bar if you're looking for a quick bite. Plus, you can arrange for an alternative meal arrangement.
Don't worry if you get a case of the late-night munchies; the room service [24-hour] is a LIFESAVER. The bottle of water provided in the room is also great. Also, the happy hour at the bar is a must-do. If you're feeling posh, there's even a poolside bar. And if you like vegetables (or just love a fresh start), the salad in restaurant is delightful. If you're missing home, you can find the soup in restaurant. If you're vegetarian, then the vegetarian restaurant is your new best friend. The desserts in restaurant are also something else. I'd also recommend the Asian breakfast and the Western breakfast options, as they are both great. My experience with the breakfast takeaway service was good, I had zero issues. The coffee shop is good for a quick caffeine fix.
Relaxation Station: The Pool That Stole My Heart!!
Okay, here’s where the Novotel Hongqiao truly shines. The swimming pool [outdoor] is stunning. But the real showstopper? The Pool with view. I could easily spend hours just floating around, gazing at the… well, Shanghai skyline. It was pure bliss. The water was crystal clear, the atmosphere was chill, and the whole experience was utterly rejuvenating. It was, hands down, the best part of my stay.
They also have a fitness center if you’re feeling energetic, a spa with a full range of treatments (including Body scrub and Body wrap – hello, pampering!), a sauna, a steamroom, and a massage service. I indulged in a massage and it was AMAZING. They have the spa/sauna facilities too. If I’m honest, I probably spent too much time lounging by the pool, and not enough time trying out the gym/fitness area. Also, I heard good things about the foot bath.
Safety First (and Second, and Third): Cleanliness & Security:
I was seriously impressed with the attention to detail regarding cleanliness and safety. The staff are clearly well-trained in safety protocol. They have a doctor/nurse on call, a first aid kit, and, of course, plenty of hand sanitizer. They're taking the physical distancing of at least 1 meter super seriously. The rooms sanitized between stays, daily disinfection in common areas, and use of anti-viral cleaning products definitely put my mind at ease. I did however, find the room sanitization opt-out available, slightly confusing. They are also running Professional-grade sanitizing services and they have sterilizing equipment. All that, plus all the CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property (I think!) - You feel really safe. They even use individually-wrapped food options and safe dining setup.
The "Shocking Secret": A Hotel That Actually Cares
Look, the Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao isn't perfect. No hotel is. But what sets it apart is the staff. They genuinely care about the guests' experience. They are helpful, friendly, and go the extra mile. The little things make all the difference: a friendly greeting, a prompt response to a request, helpful advice on navigating the city. That, my friends, is the "shocking secret." It’s a hotel where you feel seen. It’s a hotel that actually cares.
Services and Conveniences: All the Extras That Make Life Easier:
The Novotel is well-equipped with other great features. There's air conditioning in public area, a business facilities for all your needs, a cash withdrawal service, a concierge, and a convenience store – all the essentials! There are daily housekeeping and dry cleaning services. They offer currency exchange, a doorman, an elevator, essential condiments, even a gift/souvenir shop! They have invoice provided too! The ironing service and laundry service are also great. There are also
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Alright, buckle up, buttercups! Because my Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao adventure is about to spill onto the page, warts and all. Forget perfectly polished itineraries – you're getting the REAL deal, the messy, the marvelous, and the oh-so-often-hangry me.
Novotel Shanghai Hongqiao: My Shanghai Shenanigans – A Stream of Conciousness Itinerary (and a Few Regrets):
Day 1: Arrival, Jet Lag, and the Phantom Noodles
- 7:00 AM (ish), Shanghai Pudong (PVG) Airport: Okay, so the flight was… a thing. Think cramped, recycled air, and a screaming toddler who decided my neck was a personal punching bag. On the plus side, the immigration officer’s smile was genuinely warm. Actually, I’m already feeling a hint of the Shanghai Charm. Who am I kidding, I'm delirious with jet lag. Where's my coffee?!
- 7:30 AM - 8:00 AM: Airport Transfer (Taxi): Found a decent taxi! Thank Buddha! The driver, bless his heart, seemed to think I was trying to escape a bank robbery with my frantic hand gestures for "hotel." The traffic… well, let’s just say I’ve seen fewer cars in a demolition derby. A roller coaster, but only because I can’t believe it's a standard part of the day here.
- 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Novotel Check-In: Ah, sweet, sweet air conditioning. The lobby is pristine. Like, too pristine. Where's the lived-in chaos? The comforting, musty scent of old travel? Anyway, check-in smooth enough considering I’m pretty sure I was drooling a little. This is the fancy part, it smells of expensive flowers and… anticipation?
- 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Hotel Room (Finally!): Room’s nice… a bit clinical. The view? Awesome! Skyscrapers kissing the clouds. Maybe the jet lag is playing tricks, but is the bed calling to me? YES. Absolutely yes. But first, a shower. Then, the bed. Then… maybe food? Food is a good idea. Noodle are always a fantastic idea.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: THE NAP (and a Little Incident): Okay, so I woke up. Thought I was winning. Got dressed. Headed downstairs. No noodles. No noodles. Apparently, I hallucinated the entire noodle-based breakfast menu. A crushing blow. I ended up with a pathetic croissant and coffee that tasted suspiciously like disappointment. Back up to the room I went. Then I took a nap.
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Exploring the Area (A Little Lost, A Lot Hungry): Okay, so I tried. I really tried to be the intrepid traveler. Found the subway… and promptly got lost. Twice. My Mandarin is non-existent, and my hand-waving skills could only get me a blank stare from the nice lady at the ticket counter. Ended up wandering around a local market. Smells amazing. Everything's so… different. I buy some fruit that I'm pretty certain I won't be able to name in English. But I ate it anyway. Worth it.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Back to the Room, Regrouping: Back to the hotel to lick my wounds, and re-strategize. I was this close to eating a dubious looking street meat. Thank god for my survival instinct and the hotel room's sanctuary.
- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Dinner at the Hotel Restaurant (Finally Food!): The restaurant, bless its heart, was a lifesaver. Great food and the kindest staff. I feel like I am actually going to survive this trip.
- 8:00 PM onwards: Collapse into Bed, Dream of Noodles: My head hit the pillow and that was it. My entire being just shut down until the next day.
Day 2: Temples, Tea, and a Very Loud Bus
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast (Redemption!): I survived! Breakfast buffet delivers. There's actual noodles this time. I ate enough for three people. And then some tea.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Jing'an Temple: The temple was… breathtaking. The incense, the chanting… the history. I felt a genuine sense of peace, which is a rare thing for me on a good day, never mind after international travel.. Now, I'm not a "temple person," but I was seriously moved. The architecture is insane.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch (Accidental Adventure): I had grand plans to eat at a fancy place, but then I saw a small, hole-in-the-wall place. I was feeling brave from the temple vibes. Totally worth it. Best dumplings I’ve ever had. Language barrier? I pointed a lot, smiled even more, and the resulting meal was pure magic.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Tea Ceremony: I found a tea shop. The owner, Madam Lin, was a total character. Spent hours explaining the different teas, the ceremonies, and the importance of… well, everything. Some of the teas were delicious, some tasted like grass clippings. But it was all good! The tea ceremony was peaceful, almost meditative.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Bus Tour (Near Disaster): I thought I would be smart and take a bus tour. A mistake. The bus was a rolling disco. K-pop music blasting at eardrum-shattering levels. The guide, bless his soul, spoke… well, he spoke Mandarin. Which, as you know, I don’t. I ended up with a headache and a burning desire to be back in my hotel room.
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Dinner and a bit of wandering: Found a tasty place and was happy with the food and atmosphere.
- 7:00 PM onwards: Back to the hotel, and just collapsing.
Day 3: Shopping, the Bund, and Goodbye (Already?)
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast (More Noodles!): God bless every noodle shop in this glorious city.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Shopping (Some Success, Some Regret): Went shopping. Found some cool souvenirs and spent way too much money. A genuine regret. But the quality of the goods, are truly great.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch: Back to the dumpling place from the first day. I think I have an addiction.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: The Bund (Awe and Overwhelm): The Bund. Holy moly. The stunning architecture, the river, the crowds… it was sensory overload. I loved it. I was also slightly terrified of getting swept away by the hordes of tourists and locals. The views were spectacular, truly.
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Last-Minute Souvenir Panic: Needed gifts, panicked, bought the first thing that looked remotely presentable. Might be a disaster, but hey, it's the thought that counts.
- 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Packing (or, the Art of Shoving): The suitcase…ugh. It looked like a bomb had gone off in a clothes store. Still I manage to close it. I'm a packing ninja.
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Final Dinner: The hotel bar. One last cocktail. A mixture of sadness for the trip, relief that the journey is over.
- 7:00 PM onwards: Airport. Farewell Shanghai! I’m off.
Post-Trip Ramblings:
Shanghai, you were something. Loud, chaotic, beautiful, confusing, and utterly unforgettable. My itinerary was a mess, my Mandarin non-existent, and I ate things I probably shouldn't have. But, I wouldn't trade it for anything. I'll be back, Shanghai, I promise. And next time, I'm learning Mandarin, buying ALL the noodles, and maybe, just maybe, figuring out the subway.
(P.S. - If anyone can tell me what that weird green fruit was, DM me. I'm still trying to figure it out.)
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Is the Novotel Hongqiao REALLY the "BEST" hotel in Shanghai? Seriously?!
Alright, alright, let's tackle the biggie. "Best"? That's a HUGE claim. Did it have its… quirks? Oh, honey, YES. Did it have moments of sheer brilliance? Actually, yes, too. It depends on your definition of "best." If you want polished perfection, maybe look elsewhere. If you want an adventure, something slightly… *unhinged* (in a good way!), then possibly. Think of it as a delightful, slightly-off, best friend. It’s not perfect, but you love it anyway. It’s certainly not the Ritz, but that's part of the charm, isn't it? I wouldn't call it the "best" unequivocally, but it's got a certain… *je ne sais quoi* that makes it memorable, let’s just say that.
What's this "shocking secret" everyone keeps talking about? Spill the tea!
(Deep breath). Here's the deal. The "shocking secret" is less a conspiracy and more a… well… *intense* air conditioning system. Seriously. It's a freaking ICE BOX in the rooms. I swear, I nearly froze my *ahem*… backside off one night. I'm talking shivering, piling on ALL the blankets, even contemplating stealing the curtains to keep warm. And let me tell you, it wasn't pleasant trying to regulate the temperature! This is where it gets messy! The controls were… enigmatic, to say the least. I'm pretty sure I spent half the trip just wrestling with the thermostat, in an effort to find some kind of middle ground between 'Arctic Blast' and 'Sauna Deluxe.' It's not the most *pleasant* secret, but it is a memorably shocking one. Bring extra sweaters!
Okay, so the AC is a problem. Anything else? What about the location?
The location is actually pretty decent, especially if you're flying into Hongqiao Airport, it's right there! Seriously, like a hop, skip, and a jump (maybe more like a stumble after a long flight). That's a major win, frankly. Makes the whole "travel day" thing so much more manageable, especially when jet lag hits. And, it's got easy access to the subway which is a godsend for getting around Shanghai. No need to spend precious time stuck in traffic! But, the area around the hotel itself... it's a bit… well, corporate. Lots of office buildings, not a ton of immediate charm. You'll need to head a bit further out to find the really interesting stuff. So, convenience? Yes. Instant immersion in Shanghai's vibrant culture? Not so much, you're basically in Business Land.
Is the breakfast buffet worth it? Because I LOVE a good buffet.
Oh, the buffet! Okay, let's talk about the buffet. It was… *extensive*. Truly. You could get lost in the sheer array of food. Like, *lost*. There were dumplings, noodles, pastries galore (those were great, by the way!), and… everything! Everything you could possibly, conceivably, *want*. But… and this is a BIG but… the quality was a bit… hit or miss. Some things were fantastic (the pastries, I told you!). Others? Meh. Fine. Perfectly adequate. I had some amazing dumplings, and some not-so-amazing ones. The coffee? Let's just say it wasn't Italian. Still, it's a buffet! I'm a fan of food, and there was a lot of it. So, YES, probably worth it, just temper your expectations. It’s a buffet, people! Don't expect Michelin stars! Just… embrace the food coma, its part of the experience!
What about the staff? Polite? Helpful? Or just… going through the motions?
The staff… ah, the staff. This is where things get... well, a bit mixed. Some were AMAZING. Absolutely lovely, went above and beyond to help, spoke excellent English, and were just generally a joy to interact with. Others… felt a little less engaged. Like, they were there. They were doing their job. But the spark just wasn't there. And that's okay! Everyone has off days. Honestly, in my experience, it's like any big hotel. You get a mix. Just be patient, be polite yourself, and hopefully you’ll get the good ones. I did have a few lovely interactions, and one particularly helpful concierge who basically saved my bacon when I lost my metro card. So… it's a mixed bag, but overall, polite and helpful enough. The concierge I mentioned? ANGEL. Seriously.
Diving deeper, what about the rooms themselves? Clean? Modern? Dated?
Okay, let's get into the nitty gritty of the ROOMS. My room? Well, it was clean, which is a HUGE plus, right? And the bed was comfy. Very comfy. I slept like a log (once I wrestled the AC into submission, that is). The decor? Honestly? A bit… *blah*. Think functional, but not particularly stylish. Think beige. Think corporate chic. Think… perfectly adequate. But not Instagram-worthy, if you know what I mean. It was definitely more "business traveler" than "luxury retreat." But! Everything worked. The wifi was reliable (important!). The shower had decent pressure. No complaints, really, apart from that infernal air conditioning, the rooms were… fine. Perfectly, adequately, fine.
Would you stay there again? Honestly!
You know what? Yes. I probably would. Despite the freezing rooms, the slightly generic decor, and the occasional hit-or-miss service. Because… well, it was convenient. It was clean. The beds were comfy. And, honestly, it's got a certain… *charm*. Plus, knowing about the AC beforehand gives you a fighting chance (pack extra sweaters!!). Also, think of all the stories! Shanghai will never be forgettable, and the Novotel plays its part in that, it’s really just a convenient stop in your adventure. It's not the *perfect* hotel, but it's certainly… an experience. And sometimes, that's all you need. So, yeah. I'd go back. Just promise me you'll bring a blanket.
Any hidden gems or surprising perks? You know, the *really* good stuff?
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