HUALUXE Shanghai Changfeng Park by IHG

The breakfast was varied and really tasty, and the newly renovated design with traditional Chinese touches looked elegant. During the May Labor holidays, the free children’s activities were a big hit: bounce castles, tunnel tents, giant LEGO blocks, games, and daily traditional culture workshops. Our family also got welcome drinks and a premium tea gift set, along with calligraphy practice sheets and an herbal sachet to help with sleep. We had lovely lake views by day and city lights at night. The tube station is steps away, with a children’s library and Joy City shopping mall next door; a huge park and aquarium are across the street, and there’s a lively square just ahead. It had all the features we wanted, and we’ll definitely come back.

The junior suite was spacious and felt very luxurious, with a lovely view over Shanghai and the park. Staff were incredibly helpful, and the club lounge included a free evening meal and drinks. The hotel was well placed for the fair I visited, a lovely park, and two shopping and restaurant centers with all kinds of food. The metro is right beside the hotel and takes about 20 minutes to the Bund. It’s easy and cheap to use, and the machines are in English.

I gave a week’s notice when I emailed to cancel, even though the policy says the reservation department must receive cancellation or amendment requests 24 hours before arrival. They charged the full booking amount in advance without notifying me, then sent an automatic email telling me to check the cancellation policy. Be careful with this hotel company. If you want to avoid trouble during a holiday or work event, I’d avoid the hotel and the brand.

My room was comfortable and well kept, and after arriving soaked, the warm shower was a welcome refuge. The check-in went fairly smoothly, with a professional and friendly receptionist who explained the amenities and other details. They noticed me dripping wet on the way to the desk and quickly brought a box of tissues. It was thoughtful and useful, though a towel would have been even better. During my two nights there, the other staff I met were polite and attentive, and the restaurant staff gave good service. The food was satisfactory. I arrived in an unexpected downpour, drenched from head to toe, so my first impression was a bit dampened.