W Shanghai - The Bund

The only good part was the mousse cake and sweet card for our anniversary. The rest was one bad experience after another at a single hotel, even though we’ve stayed at plenty of 5* hotels around the world. During a business trip, we were asked to leave the bar after telling the waiter we didn’t want the canapes that came with the pre set menu, even after we kept saying we were staying in the penthouse. The staff don’t speak English, don’t accommodate special requests, including my peanut allergy, and don’t know their guests. Breakfast was a mess, and the cocktails took a long time and weren’t made well. The hotel general manager was on the premises for a couple of days and apologized for the incident. The regional and local managers also chased us right afterward to try to make things right. That same night, I checked in at the Ritz because I refused to go back to that circle. I had the best services there out of all the places I’ve stayed in China, among Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, Foshan and Wangxiangu. Sadly, I don’t recommend this hotel.

We stayed as a family of three in a Wonderful Room with 2 twin beds. It was 46 sqm, so pretty spacious, and the toilet area was huge and luxurious, with a bathtub, two separate sinks, a shower room and a WC. I loved the bathrobes, too. Since it was winter, they had fleece and kept us cosy and warm all night. They even gave my 7-year-old son his own slippers, bathrobe and toiletries kit. W Shanghai was absolutely amazing, with the funky style W's are known for, and the Shanghai one was no different.

The pool and spa were top-notch, and made it easy to unwind after a busy day exploring the historic and modern sides of Shanghai. The location right on the Bund is unbeatable. Breakfast had an exceptional spread of international and local choices, all beautifully presented. The room was spacious, stylish and had stunning views of the Shanghai skyline, just what you’d expect from a W property. From arrival, the staff welcomed us warmly and paid attention to detail. Service was impeccable throughout, with every request handled quickly and with a smile. W Shanghai gave us an amazing stay and exceeded our expectations, luxurious, energetic and service-oriented. Highly recommended for a memorable city stay.

I rarely leave reviews for Bonvoy hotels, but the W team in Shanghai provided such fantastic hospitality that I had to mention it. Check-in was smooth, and staff kindly upgraded me for free to a higher floor with a nicer view of the Bund. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but my jaw dropped when I walked into the room. The view was absolutely stunning. The fitness area was incredible, with some of the most advanced exercise machines. I also enjoyed the outdoor pool and used the sauna spa facility. They take great care of the environment. There’s no executive lounge, so Bonvoy members with Elite status are offered complimentary happy hour drinks from 6pm to 8pm, including cocktails and various other drinks. Breakfast was vast and delicious, with Western, European and authentic Chinese food. Everyone I encountered, from the downstairs lobby staff by the front door to the people in the gym, pool, bar and restaurant, showed great enthusiasm for providing the highest quality of service. I especially want to acknowledge Claire for all her help and support, from recommending the best bars and restaurants to answering guests’ questions or concerns. Management is lucky to have her. I can’t wait to return to Shanghai, and I’m even more excited about staying at this amazing hotel again.