Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Jinqiao Central by IHG

The receptionist working the evening of 8/9 and the morning of 9/9 was professional, attentive, and had an excellent attitude. The facilities were well equipped, with a washing machine, dryer, and gym. Breakfast had a decent Vietnamese-style selection, and even people who can't eat oily or spicy food could enjoy it.

The breakfast was amazing, with plenty to choose from, from Chinese soups to eggs and sausages. Rooms are cosy, clean, and comfortable. This is the best place to stay around here, and I'd highly recommend it if you're working near any of the other companies.

Holiday Inn Express, Jin Qiao Central, 2024-09. Room service was excellent, and the cleaning lady was prompt, courteous, and friendly. Some of the evening front desk staff were helpful and very polite. They also loaned me an umbrella without any fuss. The day staff upset me with how they talked about hotel services. When I asked about a shuttle, I was told, "NEVER," though before Covid the hotel had helped customers arrange that service. I also saw the concierge help newly arrived guests, but the day shift front desk staff insisted the hotel had NEVER helped guests bring bags to their rooms. I'm absolutely fine with being told a service is no longer offered, but "NEVER" is the wrong word in the hospitality industry. I'm very disappointed with the front desk staff's attitude and knowledge of the hotel's past services. My room rating of 4 stars is for room service alone. The front desk deserves at most 2 stars. My 4-star service rating is also for room service. Location gets 3 stars, and overall, I'd give it 3. I've been to Shanghai for more than 10 years, so I think I know a little about its hospitality industry.

The hotel's looking worn, though the rooms aren't tiny and are comfortable enough. Housekeeping was polite and thoughtful, and the location worked very well for my job. There's a convenience store right beside the hotel and a variety of Chinese eateries behind it. During my December 2019 trip, the dining room was being renovated, so breakfast came packed and wasn't very palatable. That was the biggest letdown, and I'd suggest calling the hotel before booking. The rest of the stay was comfortable. Shanghai's government has passed a law against hotels offering disposable toiletries. I've been carrying my own toothbrush, toothpaste, shaving kit, and similar items for years, though the hotel will provide disposable toiletries if you ask.