Renaissance Suzhou Hotel

The Club Lounge had a lovely view of Central Park, and its evening Happy Hours came with a great spread of food, desserts, fruit, beer, and wine. I was impressed by the variety. Cocktails were the weak spot: although they had the spirits and mixers, the staff didn't know how to make Mojitos or Margaritas. When I asked, they did try making their own drinks, which I appreciated. Breakfast was amazing, easily the best quality and selection of my stays in China. There were Western choices alongside Chinese breakfast dishes, plus lots of pastries. The buffet staff worked smoothly together, and I enjoyed chatting with the chef one morning. I also liked that toiletries were available on request, and laundry was handled as requested. Everyone I spoke with had good English. My room was spacious, though it felt dated. I stayed three nights in June 2023. The serious downside was cigarette smoke on the ninth floor despite the hotel's no-smoking policy. I smelled it in the corridor every morning leaving my room and every evening coming back from the elevator, and saw ash on the floor. With CCTV throughout the hotel, I was shocked that guests were still allowed to smoke inside. Management should address this seriously. I also had a great time at the R Bar late on a Friday. There was a live performer singing English and Chinese songs, the staff were prompt and courteous, and the draught beer selection was good.

The hotel's been renovated fairly recently compared with some other Marriott properties in China, and when we visited the decor looked beautiful and new. The rooms were a good size, and both the washroom and the rest of the room were spotless. I enjoyed the new facilities and the service overall. The neighborhood is relatively quiet for China, especially on weekends, with a lot of offices nearby. That means it doesn't feel as crowded, but the main tourist areas are quite far away. Cabs can take ages because of traffic jams on the way to the main urban area. The staff were friendly, though they didn't go above and beyond.

The staff have always been kind and helpful, and there's a wonderful, varied breakfast. I've stayed here several times since 2015, so I really value how familiar the hotel feels. Many restaurants and attractions are within walking distance.

I'm due back soon for another business trip after staying here about a month ago, and I'm already looking forward to it. The staff are great, and being right beside central park feels much nicer than the Shanghai concrete jungle. Jinji lake is nearby, and they provide bicycles if you have time for a ride. I'd recommend booking breakfast included. It's a huge international buffet, with made-to-order omelettes and plenty more, nothing like a motel 6 breakfast. The executive lounge upstairs is worth getting access to as well. A great hotel experience all around.