Novotel Ningbo East

I appreciated that the room was set to a normal temperature. Other hotels in Asia often heat too much in winter or cool too much in summer, which I don't support because of the negative environmental impact. The hotel worked very well for my business trip, from check-in to the staff helping with my requests. It's a two-minute walk from the metro and a shopping mall with plenty of food options.

The city location was good, and having a Starbucks right by the front lobby was the one saving grace. I won't be back. The carpet in my room was badly soiled, and the glass shower wall's electric blind was missing louvres. The Wi-Fi was terrible and only suitable for a data cable connection. Room maintenance needed attention, and room service was tenuous: I tried to order food, but the kitchen staff didn't speak English and hung up on me. The welcome at check-in fell short, the staff's English was only so-so, and communication overall was inefficient.

The reception staff barely spoke English, and the staff, especially in the breakfast area, weren't helpful. When the coffee machine ran out of beans, they didn't want to refill it. The air conditioning in my room and in the lobby never worked. Whatever I adjusted, it stayed warm, which was very uncomfortable in summer. This was a lousy hotel and not at all up to Accor standard.

The riverside is great for a morning walk, and the area around the hotel is really convenient. There’s food and a minimart nearby, plus a luxury mall and the metro within walking distance. The rooms are clean, with a comfy bed and the usual Novotel standard. Breakfast is okay, and the convention center is close.