Be Wowed at the Waldorf Astora in Shanghai

You only have one life to live so make the most of it. When you visit Shanghai stay at the Waldorf Astoria. The Shanghai Waldorf was the first new purpose-built Waldorf Astoria outside the United States. The hotel exudes the elegance of the early 1900s that was the signature of the Bund. The building was once the Shanghai Club, an exclusive men’s club catering to the Shanghai elite.

At one time members would stand the 100-plus-foot mahogany bar based on their social standing, the higher the standing the closer to the Bund. Today guests can sit or stand anywhere they desire in the Long Bar enjoying their choice of libations, a wide selection of Cuban cigars, and another luxury of the olden days, the Oyster Bar.  If you want to learn how to make one of their signature cocktails then sign up for their cocktail making experience.

Elegance is everywhere throughout the hotel from the marble pillars to the glittering chandeliers to the many conversation areas.  In the Salon de Ville tearoom enjoy being pampered while taking part in high tea. The three-tiered stand offering luscious cakes and sandwiches is presented with panache while guests are seated on sumptuous sofas. 

Viewed from above, the Grand Brasserie exhibits it unique design

that is both classic and modern. While dining during their expansive breakfast or for lunch or dinner guests are afford a view of the landscaped interior courtyard.  No stay would be complete without a

Dim Sum lunch at the Wei Jing Ge Chinese restaurant.  It is the perfect way to try a variety of Chinese delicacies. The attic décor with large open rafter wood ceilings and an eclectic display of art and Chinese reproduction antique create a memorable dining experience. 

The stylish opulence doesn’t stop with the public areas. The spacious accommodations have plush beds, fine linens, walk-in closets, and a large marble bathroom with in-mirror TV and Toto washlets. Guests will appreciate the work area with complimentary WiFi, an LCD TV, and tea/coffee making facilities.  Guests may also enjoy the Library Lounge. For more information log on to www.waldorfastoriashanghai.com.

The Peninsula Hotel Personifies Excellence

The Peninsula hotels have always been a benchmark for luxury and opulence and the Peninsula Beijing is no exception. From its imposing, traditional Chinese architectural-style exterior to its rooftop bar with a panoramic view the hotel exudes the ultimate in luxury. The Peninsula Beijing is ideally located in the center of Beijing close to major attractions like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and major shopping areas.

The sumptuously appointed rooms and suites epitomize the traditions of the hotel's Chinese heritage. Exquisite details and materials in classic earth tones throughout are complemented with state-of-the-art, multi-media technology to provide guests with an unparalleled Peninsula experience.

Dining choices include Jing Restaurant specializing in contemporary western cuisine with Asian accents, the Huang Ting offering dim sum, exquisite Cantonese cuisine and Beijing specialties including Peking Duck, and the Lobby Lounge is the place for high tea while listening to live music.

Treat yourself to a treatment at the Peninsula Spa, a

luxurious and tranquil sanctuary for body, mind and spirit. There is also pool and fitness center.  For the ultimate experience stay at Executive Level and check out the Peninsula Moments that include unique, personalize experiences such as the Peninsula Art Journey or a their kite-making class that includes flying the kite in historic Tiananmen Square. Nothing is ordinary at the Peninsula.

Be Wowed at the Beijing Waldorf Astoria

The newest international Waldorf Astoria opened in Beijing offering all the luxury and unequaled service one comes to expect from the Waldorf.  The Waldorf Astoria Beijing offers a timeless experience in the heart of Wangfujing. It is ideally located near shopping and not far from the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.

Accommodations are elegant, spacious and sumptuously decorated with some featuring a courtyard view and furnished terraces. Beds are dressed with fine linens and a selection of pillows. Rooms feature an expanded work area, complimentary WiFi, an alarm clock with CD and MP3 player, a bedside tablet replaces the old-style informational book, plus there are coffee and tea facilities. All accommodations have a lavish marble bathroom with twin vanities, a soaking tub with a TV, a rainforest shower and exquisite amenities.

Experience the Waldorf’s fabulous leisure facilities including an inviting heated indoor swimming

pool, a contemporary fitness center and a tranquil, a luxury spa offering signature therapies that blend traditional Chinese philosophies with innovative techniques to deliver treatments that beautify, refine and revive. Gastronomes will be impressed with the two lavish restaurants: the stylish Brasserie 1893 and elegant Zijin Mansion. The sophisticated Peacock Alley provides a chic, welcoming space to savor signature Waldorf Astoria dishes and an extensive selection of premium beverages.

For guests seeking greater privacy and a more refined experience, Hutong Studios and a Hutong Presidential Suite are available. For more information check www3.hilton.com.

Enjoy the InterContinental Hotel in Chongqing

The luxurious InterContinental Hotel is located in the heart of Chongqing, China. It is the perfect choice for those cruising on the Yangtze River but there is also great shopping with a pedestrian street lined with shops just steps from the front door. The staff will arrange sightseeing trips to Tianchi Hot Springs and Ciqikou Ancient Town.

Arriving guests are greeted warmly and enter the beautiful lobby to be ushered to their plush guestroom with King Koil’s luxury bedding, a full size bathroom with rain forest shower, individual controlled air conditioning unit, 2 IDD/dual lines and data ports, high speed internet access and many more amenities.

Whether dressing up for dinner or enjoy a casual drink, the

restaurant and bar venues at the InterContinental Chongqing provide a perfect environment for every occasion. In the lounge enjoy tea with one of the hotel-created pastries or in the evening sip your favorite libation while listening to relaxing music.  Widely considered the city’s most elegant dining experience, Emerald Sea Chinese Restaurant is an avant-garde restaurant serving authentic Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine. The spread is transformed with Asian, Western and

international cuisine at lunch and dinner in Gingers Restaurant specializes in contemporary Asian cuisine. Consider upgrading to Executive Level that includes breakfast, cocktail hour, complimentary internet and other perks. Being a member of InterContinental Rewards Club Program offers more perks and the opportunity to gain points for future stays. For more information check www.ihg.com.

Explore the Yangtze River on Century’s Legend

No trip to China is complete without a voyage on the Three Gorges area of the Yangtze River. Century’s Legend, the newest river cruise ship on the river, offers the most luxurious experience.  Consider boarding in the evening from Yichang. No meal is served but it gives passengers time to get settled and explore the vessel before departure.  

The onboard activities are many with a beautiful swimming pool,

spa, mahjong rooms, evening shows and presentations.  Cabins are roomy and luxurious with marble bathrooms. Most of the meals are buffet-style with a variety of international choices plus there is assigned seating. Upgrade to Executive Level for more amenities and personal service with dining in the Pavillion Dining room where most meals are served by an attentive staff. Guests not staying at Executive Level may book a reservation to dine in the Pavillion.

Each day shore trips are organized most of which are included in the price. Visit the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest power station in terms of capacity. The project, except for the ship lift (scheduled to be completed in 2015), was completed in 2012. There are escalators making visiting the project easy. 

A visit to the Tribes of the Three Gorges is a do-not-miss featuring a beautiful gorge walk and a mock wedding. Other trips include a visit to the Fengdu Ghost City, the Lesser Three Gorges, and Shibao Pagoda.  The main attraction is cruising between the majestic gorges and locking through the five locks. A do not miss trip. For more information check www.centuryrivercruises.com.

The Crowne Plaza in Yichang, China is a great place to stay

Need a hotel at the start or end of a Yangtze River Cruise? Look no further than the Crowne Plaza in Yichang. Guests will receive all the attention and service they come to expect from the InterContinental family of hotels.  Located on the Yangtze River the hotel is located in the heart of the Yichang shopping and entertainment district just steps from Wanda Plaza shopping mall where shoppers will find high-end stores and even Walmart. 

The broad, towering pillars of the lobby create a feeling of space, style and elegance making it the perfect place to meet friends and enjoy a libation.  Relax in your room with a view of the Yangtze River where the internet is gratis. For the ultimate in service and relaxation consider an upgrade to Executive Club Level where the dedicated lounge has great views. Get up early and head to the waterfront park and join the Tai Chi group or those learning a new dance step.

Enjoy the expansive buffet at Coffee No. 1 Restaurant on the main

level and in the evening dine at the Jade Palace featuring royal cuisine complemented with selected Cantonese, Sichuan and Hubei specialties. And, remember to sign up for their customer loyalty program and gain points for more stays at the InterContinental family of hotels worldwide. For more information check www.ihg.com.

Check out the Holiday Inn in Sanya - China's Hawaiian Island

Looking for a great warm winter destination? How about Sanya, on the China’s resort island of Hainan?  The Holiday Inn Resort is a great, value-laden place to stay and play.  The Holiday Inn Resort is located close to the airport and just steps from glistening Sanya Bay. The airy lobby will be a welcome site after a long flight.  The beach rivals the hotel’s multi-level pool surrounded by a lush tropical garden.

Enjoy an expansive buffet breakfast and then consider a pizza at the Marina Café for lunch. While on the beach buy a refreshing mango cut and ready to eat. Each evening there is BBQ with mini hotpot on the patio by the pool. Most evenings a singing duo will entertain with a variety of old favorites.

All rooms have a balcony so book a room with a sea view whichis perfect for enjoying a libation as the sun sets. Check for special in-room promotions for beverages, laundry and other money-saving possibilities. 

The Holiday Inn hotel Sanya is family friendly with a play area, large children’s pool, and a dedicate playroom plus children under six stay and eat free. Check out the hotel’s “All in One Package” that includes 24-hour limitless F&B consumption, use of hotel’s recreational facilities, two 45-minute spa treatments and round trip transfer between airport and hotel.

The hotel has a complimentary shuttle to Sanya city’s mainshopping district for those who love to shop. The internet is complimentary and IHG Rewards Club will receive extra benefits while accumulating points. For more information check www.ihg.com.

The Peninsula Shanghai outshines all other hotels

Life is good at The Peninsula Hotel in Shanghai – always. Part of the esteemed Peninsula family of hotels, the Shanghai Peninsula is just as exciting. Located on the world-famous Bund with spectacular views of the Bund, Huangpu River, Pudong and the gardens of the former British Consulate, The Peninsula Shanghai blends with the historic architecture of its landmark neighbors for a stylish fusion of Art Deco-inspired glamour.

Accommodations reflect the classic luxury of Shanghai. With the city’s most spacious rooms, some with great views of the Huangpu River and other with a lovely garden view, guests will appreciate the room’s state-of-the-art technology. Every room features a 46-inch plasma TV, Nespresso coffee machine, iPod docking station, free use of VOIP internet telephone for local and international calls and complimentary Wifi access.

The restaurants and bars of The Peninsula redefine the standards of excellence and service. Sir Elly’s Restaurant offers modern European cuisine, with the glorious backdrop of views across the Bund skyline. The Yi Long Court’s décor is based on a 1920s home of a rich Shanghainese merchant with mahogany floors, fireplaces, comfortable sofas, and velvet upholstery creating welcoming residential feel and features Cantonese cuisine. The Compass Bar, just off the lobby is a popular meeting place but nothing surpasses the unique Salon de Ning for elegance.

Everything is special at the Peninsula including string quartets playing during afternoon tea, the personalized service and, especially, the Espa. The Espa offers a full menu of therapies along with foot reflexology in their Yun Vitality Room. Their 82-foot pool with private sun terrace over looking the gardens of the former British Consulate is the perfect place to relax with a book for some quiet time. Plan to make The Peninsula your destination spending as much time as possible enjoying the hotel. Life is hectic – you deserve time at The Peninsula. For more information check http://www.peninsula.com/.

Consider Executive Level at the Holiday Inn in Shanghai, China

The Holiday Inn Downtown is conveniently located in the Puxi district next to the Shanghai Rail Station and the massive Shanghai subway system. The twin-tower hotel has recently upgraded their rooms creating a fresh contemporary look. Accommodations provide a home-away-from-home with bathrobes, slippers and complimentary movies. There is ample workspace with internet connection, a mini bar and complimentary tea and coffee creating a perfect environment for relaxation after a day of work or sightseeing.

Three restaurants and three bars are waiting to serve guests. The 2^nd floor Yue Garden offers authentic Cantonese and Shanghainese cuisine at all three meals while Angle’s Café serves fresh Seafood and BBQ Buffet, and Western and Asian a la carte menu. Xi’s Garden offers Shanghai Cuisine. The Lobby Lounge, Moor Bar, Sports Bar with big screen TV and snooker are excellent venues for relaxing in the evening.

Consider Executive Club Level which offers great value. Besides all the amenities normally available all the Executive rooms in the Great Wall Wing are tailored for working guests with welcome drinks and a laundry allowance. Enjoy the perks of their 20th-floor, staffed Executive Lounge, like complimentary breakfast and happy hour drinks. Separate sit-down check-in, morning paper, complimentary soda from the mini bar, turndown service and valet service are all premium perks that make a stay at the Executive level wonderful. For more information check www.ichotelsgroup.com.

Great views from the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Nanjing, China

Located in the heart of Nanjing, the Crowne Plaza offers lofty views of the city. Guests are greeted by the concierge in the small entrance way that also leads to an upscale Golden Eagle Department Store with seven floors of expensive shops. The lobby and check-in are located on the 7^th floor. The lobby is large and elegant with access to the lounge/bar, business center, and a handicraft shop.

Accommodations provide everything that is needed for a restful stay along with an excellent work area with internet connection. The Spice Market Restaurant on the 9^th floor offer an expansive breakfast buffet designed to meet the palates of their international guests. Their all-day dining is just as expansive offering over 120 dishes. A la carte sections are also available. Guests can enjoy the restaurants large garden patio nine stories above the bustling city. The Angus Grill serves top quality grill items. The lobby lounge is the place to meet friend and relax in the evening while enjoying live music.

Guests can enjoy the hotel’s indoor swimming pool and workout facility. The concierge is ready to help guest explore the city including Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and the Ming Tomb locate in a massive landscaped park. Everyone should also visit the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. The subway entrance is conveniently located just outside the hotel. For more information check www.ichotelsgroup.com.

In Xian, China stay on Renmin Square

Xian is a city of more than eight million and growing. The primary reason tourists visit Xian is to see the amazing Terra Cotta Warriors which are located about 30 minutes by taxi from the city. After a busy day of sightseeing return to one of the three Accor hotels on peaceful Renmin Square. Located in the city center within the city walls Renmin Square is home to three Accor-brand hotels one of which is sure to fit everyone’s pocketbook.

Looking for the best deal check the Mercure Hotel or upgraded to the Grand Mercure just steps away. Or, for the most luxurious accommodation check into the beautiful Sofitel, just across the square from the Mercure hotels. The small square has plenty of trees, a fountain and a Chinese-style gazebo –the prefect place to relax.

Guests staying at any of the hotels can enjoy dining at the Sofitel’s fine restaurants. Their Casablanca restaurant is the finest Moroccan restaurant in Xian. Beside Moroccan cuisine enjoy Western, Chinese, or Japanese delights at their other restaurants, or simply unwind at the lobby bar with romantic live music every evening. For a livelier beat check out the Latin music at the Habana Club or relax anytime of the day with tea or coffee at Café Ren.

After a day of sightseeing nothing refreshes like a walk in Renmin Square checking out the age-old ginkgo trees followed by dinner at the Sofitel. For more information check www.accorhotels.com.

When in Chengdu, China, stay at the Millennium Hotel

They say the three most important aspects of a piece of property are location, location, location.  The location of the Five-star Millennium Hotel in Chengdu, China is excellent. The hotel is located in a quiet area with a lovely Shen Xian Shu linear park across the street and a wonderful pedestrian street with  shops and restaurants just steps away, not to mention a Starbucks right next to the hotel.

As one would expect of a five–star hotel, the rooms are excellent and the service is perfect. One of the unique aspects of the hotel is their VIP transportation via the London Taxi Cab. Riding in the vehicle one has the urge to do a queenly wave because they are sitting up straight with great side viewing window.  The car has plenty of room and two jump seats if need be. 

The breakfast buffet, as is typical in China, has a vast assortment of choice sure to please the palate of all guests but not to miss is the Millennium’s Yin Pin Chinese Restaurant. They offer delectable authentic Cantonese and Sichuan dishes featuring the freshest seafood. They have seven private dining rooms perfect for the family or a business meal.  Their dim sum lunch buffet is especially popular. High Tea is available daily from 15:00 to 18:00 during which guests can enjoy live piano music and select from their collection of fine English teas while indulging in their tasty homemade sandwiches and pastries. 

Guest can make use of their beautiful pool with in-water relaxation lounges, a Jacuzzi and their state-of the-art workout room.  Discerning guests will opt for the Millennium Club level accommodations which offers the most high-end accommodations offered in Chengdu along a host of exclusive amenities including complimentary buffet breakfast; all-day snacks; hot and cold beverages including wines, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres; private check-in and check-out facility; early check-in and late check-out. For more information check www.millenniumhotels.com.

Hong Kong: The Peninsula

• The iconic Hong Kong Peninsula is one always on the short list of World's Best Hotels
• Arrive in one of the hotel’s 14 Rolls Royces or via the hotel's helipcopter
• Everything is impressive from the lobby to Felix’s Bar to Salon de Ning

Check www.peninsula.com for the Peninsula family of hotels.

Hong Kong: Harbour Grand Kowloon

• On Kowloon waterfront with panoramic view of Victoria Harbor
• Rooftop infinity pool and Jacuzzi
• Join in morning tai chi or qi gong exercises on the waterfront
  

For Harbour Grand Kowloon and their other properties check http://www.harbour-plaza.com/.