Howard Johnson Royal Hotel Shenzhen

For about US$60 a night, this has been the best-value hotel I've stayed at in Shenzhen so far. It's a hidden 5 star gem in Bao An, beside a lovely old town with arcades and restaurants, and the only 5 star international hotel in the area. Rooms are spacious and clean, with full amenities. Families can get a nice Tatami design family room, and breakfast has a generous mix of local and Western dishes. There's a rooftop bar, gym, swimming pool, and a lobby coffee bar that's a must try. The Italian beans are high quality, freshly brewed with a touch of cream. A convention centre is nearby, and a huge Ski centre is expected to open later this year. It's a relaxing weekend getaway away from the busy hubs and buzzes in Futian. The 45 minute taxi ride to Bao An takes you to Qing Ping old town, where you can have a beer along the heritage river, or visit local malls for authentic food from different provinces.

I was there for 8 nights. The room was spacious and luxurious, and I'd recommend the hotel to anyone.

Great location, with beautiful, large, clean rooms.

We found this hidden 5-star hotel in Shenzhen to be excellent value. During a four-day Lunar New Year visit, we stayed at the Howard Johnson Shenzhen Royal Hotel in Bao'an District. It's a 45-minute drive from Futian Port, and our double room was only HK$480. The room was comfortable and spacious, with comprehensive amenities. The extensive breakfast buffet had Chinese noodles, dim sum, sheng bu porridge, and Western options. We had a very pleasant, satisfying stay. Nearby places include Qingping Ancient Market, large malls such as Coastal City, Wanjing Tower, the new International Convention and Exhibition Center, and Seaside Garden. I also heard a new Sam's Club and Ice and Snow World are being built nearby and will open soon.