Sheraton Guilin

The location and service deserve five stars. The hotel is close enough to walk to many of Guilin’s famous attractions, and it offers a free Guangxi Zhuang traditional costume experience, which is a definite plus. I’d give the room four stars: although it was advertised as a river view room, the tall trees along the bank blocked a clear view of the river.

The common areas and facilities were very nice, and the East wing high-floor room was modern and well decorated, though a little small. The location is great, just a few minutes’ walk from the main pedestrian street, and it was good value. On arrival and during check-in, nobody greeted us or offered help with our bags. The staff seemed busy, though, so perhaps it was just bad timing.

The listing was misleading. I booked a room for three adults at a higher rate than a two-person room, then found out the price didn’t include an extra bed and there was no sofa bed. I had to pay extra for the third adult’s bed, so I effectively paid twice. They expect three adults to share one very large bed, despite charging more than the rate for two. If you’re traveling as a group of three, like we were with a teenage child, book the cheaper room for two and ask them to add an extra bed. Don’t book a room for three. I’m canceling and staying somewhere else that doesn’t double charge for an extra person.

The location made it easy to walk to most of the city sights, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Our river-facing room gave us lovely sunrises and a view of the opera house across the water. The hotel itself feels dated from the outside, though the huge atrium is impressive once you step in. The room was clean but cramped, and the mattress was among the softest we encountered in China, so it could use an upgrade. I’d skip the club lounge access to save the money. The lounge had good views, but the food was the worst we’d had in one.