Grand Hyatt Hangzhou

From the room, the bedding was really comfortable, and there was plenty of space with good amenities. The location is hard to beat for sightseeing: the hotel sits right by the lake, with the main shopping area behind it. Shops, restaurants and markets are all an easy walk away, along with the lake views.

We were able to relax with a drink in the lobby, and the location made everything easy: West Lake is across the way and the shopping district is right behind the hotel. Breakfast had a good selection of Chinese and Western food. Our flight was delayed, so we didn't arrive at Grand Hyatt Hangzhou until nearly 3 a.m. The front desk had our check-in papers ready, finished everything in five minutes, and put us in a room near the elevator so we could get some rest. Thanks especially to Rona Bao for going out of her way to make our stay pleasant. We had a very positive visit and will be back.

The location worked well for both business and leisure, and the Chinese restaurant was good value, with high-quality dishes. Breakfast also stood out, with lots of choices and several items made to order. At Grand Hyatt Hangzhou, the staff were attentive and professional, and seemed genuinely focused on guests. The property is very well maintained and meets a high international standard. Of the Grand Hyatt hotels I've stayed at in Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, this one is easily the best. The lake view may not be as good from every room, but the stay was fantastic and I'd highly recommend it.

The breakfast costs far too much for its quality and range, and the front-desk staff weren't very personable or open to feedback. The guest-room carpet is worn and needs replacing. Showering was uncomfortable too: the centrally controlled water stayed below lukewarm, and adjusting the shower head was extremely difficult. The location is very handy, just across the lakeshore boulevard from West Lake, the city's crown jewel, and there was little traffic noise in the room. The valets and bellmen were all courteous, attentive and diligent. For a five-star hotel, there's plenty of room to improve guest service and update the property.