While it's too far to say, "you can't go wrong with a Westin", I think the newer properties, like the Westin Shanghai are a safe bet. On a recent business trip to China, I only had a few days notice and needed a hotel; so I turned to old faithful and booked at the Westin. Here's a quick review.

First of all, the location is pretty good, about four or five blocks from a subway station and a few blocks away from the Bund and Nanjing road. Some of the tourist sites like Renmin Square are also within walking distance. I also discovered a few excellent restaurants around the hotel, and a nice bar at the Grand Hyatt.

The Westin counter at the airport, right after exiting the customs area. You can get them to give you a card with the hotel name and address on it to give to a cab driver. Just make sure the driver starts the meter when you get in!

The lobby is filled with palm trees, which will probably look a little tacky in about five years, but for now they're pulling it off. The front desk staff was helpful and spoke English well. As a Platinum SPG member, I was upgraded to a Crown Deluxe suite at check-in, without question. I was also invited to take breakfast in the executive lounge on the 5th floor or at the lobby restaurant.

The Crown Deluxe room itself was large and had a separate seating area and a Heavenly Bed. What more could I ask for? Everything was clean and modern.

There is free wireless throughout the property; something I think they should expand to all their hotels. Since I was here for a few days, I tried breakfast both at the restaurant and in the lounge. My take: the restaurant choices are much better, just a busier environment! There is no view from the lounge, but they do have evening hors d'oeuvres. Very nice touch. I felt a little uncomfortable everyday at the lounge when the person would ask me for my room number and name. Can you not remember me?

The only facility I used on the hotel was the sauna, which was delightful. There was only one other gentleman in there at the same time. The pool looked tempting, but I made my way to the shower since I was in a hurry. Overall the spa looked inviting -- it is run by Banyan Tree Spa who always does seem to do a good job selecting masseuses.

The hotel is not a relaxing vacation hotel. It seemed fairly busy with business-like folk while I was there. That being said, the location is pretty good (see above).

I opted for an airport transfer, which was expensive, I realize, compared to just grabbing a taxi. A colleague told me when I got back that the St. Regis is a much better property. I'll try that out next time and post a review here (or make him do it)!

Review by Tim R.

Posted at July 30, 2006 9:47 PM