Escape to Paradise: Hanting Hotel's Lijiang Old Town Oasis
Lijiang's Little Secret: My Chaotic Love Affair with the Hanting Hotel (and Why You Should Book It NOW)
Okay, so picture this: you're dusted with jet lag, your brain feels like scrambled eggs, and you've just landed in the breathtaking, bewildering, and utterly captivating Lijiang Old Town. You need a sanctuary. You need a haven. And, if I'm being honest, you need a decent cup of coffee and a chance to, you know, breathe. That's where the Escape to Paradise: Hanting Hotel's Lijiang Old Town Oasis comes in. And let me tell you, after battling cobblestones, crowds, and the general insanity of traveling, it felt less like a hotel and more like a warm hug.
Let's get the boring bits outta the way first (though believe me, even the "boring" bits are pretty solid here!). Accessibility? They do have facilities for disabled guests, which is fantastic for inclusivity, but I didn't personally test it, so I can't provide super-detailed intel (my legs thankfully work, unlike my brain after a 16-hour flight!). They've got an elevator, which is a lifesaver after navigating those crazy stairways! And, yeah, you get Air-conditioning in public areas, which is a must when you're baking under the Yunnan sun!
Rooms, glorious rooms! Alright, the rooms. The rooms are where this place really starts to sing. Sure, the carpeting felt a little…well-worn (this isn't the Ritz, people), but the blackout curtains? Pure. Bliss. I swear, those curtains saved my sanity! I slept like a log, waking up only to stuff my face with…well, we'll get to the food later. You've got your basics: Air conditioning, alarm clock, bathrobes, bathroom phone, bathtub, closet, coffee/tea maker, complimentary tea, desk, extra long bed, free bottled water, hair dryer, in-room safe box, internet access, all that good stuff. Wi-Fi [free] is a definite win (thank you, Hanting!). Honestly, you've got everything you need.
Okay, confession: I suck at unpacking. My suitcase resembles a bomb exploded in a clothing store. But the daily housekeeping at the Hanting? Angels, I tell you! They swooped in, folded my chaos, and turned my room back into a haven. They even left a little flower on the bed once. Seriously, little gestures like that make all the difference.
Here's where things get interesting, and where the hotel really shines: Safety and Cleanliness
When I booked this trip, one of the most important things I looked for were the Covid-19 protocols (I am one of those people). Hanting Hotel actually didn't disappoint. I specifically checked for Anti-viral cleaning products, Cashless payment service, Daily disinfection in common areas, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment. Yes, I actually check these out. I know, I know, it's a bit much…But when I arrived, there were actually little signs everywhere about the cleanliness protocols and even more important, everyone took it seriously. It was so reassuring and I loved how it felt safe. It's important to me.
Now, for the real juicy stuff: Relaxation and Recreation
Okay, so, you're in Lijiang. You're probably going to be walking. A lot. And trust me, those cobblestones are not kind to your feet. Thank goodness for the Foot bath. I'm not even kidding, I think I spent three hours in the spa/sauna. Seriously, I would have lived there if they'd let me. The massage was divine – one of those "melt into a puddle" kind of experiences. And the spa area, even the steamroom and the sauna, were spotless, quiet, and utterly relaxing. Forget the Great Wall: this should be listed as one of the world's wonders.
The Swimming pool [outdoor] looked inviting, but honestly, I was too busy being a spa-loving sloth. (I’m not a massive fan of the pool itself, I just didn't have the energy). They have a Pool with a view, but I honestly spent most of my time in the spa!
Food, Glorious, Glorious Food!
Let's talk food. Because, let's be real, good food is essential. The Breakfast [buffet]? Solid. You've got your Asian breakfast staples, your Western breakfast options, your coffee/tea in restaurant…all the things you need to fuel your Lijiang adventures. It’s not Michelin-star stuff, but it's plentiful, tasty, and gets the job done! The Asian cuisine in restaurant, chef's kiss. So good and amazing.
There's a bar and a poolside bar (though I mostly stuck to the spa), and a snack bar for quick bites. I'm a sucker for a good cup of coffee, and the coffee shop was a lifesaver after those early morning explorations. They offer room service [24-hour], which is dangerous (hello, late-night noodle cravings!), but oh-so-convenient.
I think the best of this hotel is how easy it is to relax. You have all these amazing amenities but you want to just stay in your room and relax.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things that Matter
Okay, so the Hanting Hotel isn't perfect. There's no on-site doctor/nurse on call, which is something to consider. But almost everything else is there. They offer Airport transfer, which is a HUGE plus after a long flight. Cash withdrawal, currency exchange, and a convenience store are all handy. The Concierge was incredibly helpful – especially when I needed help figuring out how to send postcards without butchering the address. They even handled my laundry after I managed to stain my favorite shirt with a rogue dumpling. Legendary.
Getting Around & Other Stuff To Notice:
Car park [free of charge] is a BIG plus. The location, in the heart of Lijiang Old Town, is a big selling point, but it can be a little…chaotic to get to. Having the free parking made it easier to avoid the chaos.
For the kids: I didn't see many kids, it is a bit calmer than, say, Disneyland.
Let's Get Real: The Imperfections
Okay, so…there's no such thing as a truly perfect hotel. The internet could be a tad spotty sometimes. And the walls, well…they’re not super soundproof. I did hear some conversations from my neighbors. If you're a light sleeper, DEFINITELY bring earplugs.
And now for the Pitch: The Compelling Offer
Escape the Ordinary: Your Lijiang Adventure Starts Here!
Tired of the same old travel routine? Craving an authentic escape? Then trade the stresses of modern life for the magic of Lijiang Old Town and the warmth of the Escape to Paradise: Hanting Hotel's Lijiang Old Town Oasis!
Imagine this: Waking up in a beautifully appointed room, sunlight streaming through the curtains. After a filling breakfast (Asian or Western - your choice!) you spend your day exploring the ancient streets, and then retreating to the Hanting for an evening of pure relaxation. Indulge in a blissful massage, soak away your worries in the spa/sauna, and let the stress of the outside world just…melt away.
Here's what makes the Hanting your perfect Lijiang basecamp:
- Prime Location: Right in the heart of Lijiang Old Town, you're moments away from everything.
- Pure Relaxation: Unwind in the spa/sauna, get your foot bath, and experience the incredible massage.
- Delicious Food: Fuel your adventures with a satisfying breakfast buffet and enjoy easy access to restaurants.
- Seamless Service: The friendly staff is dedicated to making your stay unforgettable.
- Stay safe: With professional-grade sanitizing, individually-wrapped food, and staff trained in safety protocols, your health is taken seriously.
Book your stay at the Hanting Hotel today and unlock a Lijiang adventure like no other!
Don't delay! Rooms are limited, and paradise is waiting!
Keywords for SEO: Lijiang, Lijiang Old Town, Hanting Hotel, Hotel Review, Yunnan, China, Spa, Massage, Relaxation, Travel, Things to do Lijiang , where to stay Lijiang, Hotels in L
Escape to Tuscany: Relais B&B I Castagnoni's Unforgettable Charm
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your meticulously planned, Instagram-filtered travel itinerary. This is the raw, unfiltered, slightly-panicked-but-mostly-excited experience of me, navigating the labyrinthine beauty of Lijiang Old Town, China, and making Hanting Hotel on Fuxing Road my temporary (and hopefully not too temporary) home. Prepare for a bumpy ride.
Hanting Hotel Lijiang Old Town Fuxing Road: The Chaos Begins
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Scramble for Tea
- 14:00 - Arrive in Lijiang (the airport, which is FAR away from the Old Town, by the way). Okay, so the flight was fine. A little turbulence, mostly boredom. But the moment I stepped out into the air, it hit me: I'm in China! A tsunami of heat, a cacophony of Mandarin, and a taxi driver who seemed to think he was auditioning for the Formula 1. He spoke maybe three words of English, and I think he might have also been trying to sell me a particularly questionable-looking durian. I just pointed at the Hanting on my phone and held on for dear life.
- 15:00 - Check into Hanting. (Room: Surprisingly clean. Toiletries: Minimal. View: A courtyard full of laundry. Charming, perhaps? I'm still processing.) The lobby was busy. Lots of tired-looking tourists wrestling with luggage and Google Translate. The front desk lady was efficient but didn't exactly exude warmth. Still, the room is… functional. And the air conditioning works. Bless its plastic little heart.
- 16:00 - The Search for Tea! (A Quest). Okay, I NEED tea. Seriously. That flight dehydrated me, the taxi ride nearly gave me a heart attack, and the air smells of something I can't quite put my finger on (maybe incense, maybe delicious street food, maybe a combination of both). I venture out onto Fuxing Road. The Old Town is a sensory overload. Cobblestone streets, canals overflowing with water lilies, and shops overflowing with… well, everything. My intention was to locate a decent teahouse, settle in, and gracefully sip some pu'erh. What followed was a frantic, slightly panicked tour of what felt like a thousand shops, each promising "the best tea in Lijiang!" One shopkeeper cornered me with a tea ceremony involving a miniature, very serious man, and a bewildering array of tiny cups. I smiled and nodded and slowly backed away, mumbling something about needing more "time to adjust to the altitude". (I think I'm just bad at tea ceremonies.)
- 18:00 - Dinner: The Dumpling Debacle. Found a tiny restaurant down a narrow alley. Himalayan dumplings. Score. Ordered in my best, broken Chinese (which, let's be honest, is terrible). The dumplings arrived. They looked amazing. First bite… Spicy. Second bite… Even spicier. Third bite… Tears. Not tears of joy, folks. Tears of pure, unadulterated chili-induced misery. I drank about a gallon of water. I think I’m still sweating.
- 20:00 - Evening stroll through the Old Town. Exhausted, full, and slightly overwhelmed. Saw the lit-up water systems and bridges. Stunning, really. But also, the sheer volume of people! I mean, people everywhere. I could barely move. The entire place is buzzing with a unique type of energy. It's a sensory bombardment that is both fantastic and exhausting.
- 21:00 - Back to the Hanting (Safe Haven?). Found a small convenience store near the hotel. Bought a bottle of water (again). And a bag of, I don't know what they are, something crunchy and probably loaded with MSG. Back in the room. Collapse.
Day 2: A Day of (Mostly) Success
- 08:00 - Breakfast (at the hotel): Okay, the breakfast at the Hanting wasn't going to blow me away. I managed to get a boiled egg and some mystery bread. But I lived.
- 09:00 - Exploring the Old Town (Level Up). Remember that feeling of overwhelm from yesterday? Yep, it's back. BUT, I decided to tackle a chunk of the Old Town I missed, I found a beautiful area by a small bridge where the river runs slow and still. Felt much more peaceful. Watched another tea ceremony. This time, I was already prepared. (This time I just walked away as soon as I saw them starting to set up).
- 12:00 - Lunch: Noodle Nirvana. Finally, a win! Found a small noodle shop tucked away. The owner looked like he'd been making noodles since the Ming Dynasty. The broth was rich, the noodles chewy, and the whole experience… glorious. Okay, maybe I'm a little in love with this place.
- 13:00 - The Black Dragon Pool: So Close, Yet So Far. The Black Dragon Pool is supposed to be THE iconic view of Lijiang. Mountains reflected in the still water. I walked… and walked… and walked… and found myself in a completely different area. I got lost, again. Ended up in a neighborhood full of locals. No English spoken. I gesticulated. They laughed kindly. Finally, I was able to locate the spot. The view? Worth it. Absolutely breathtaking.
- 16:00 - The Water Wheel: Tourist Trap or Cultural Icon? The photo ops are insane. But the Wheel is beautiful.
- 18:00 - Dinner: Street Food Adventure. My stomach is rumbling. Time to embrace the chaos. I wandered the streets, cautiously sampling the various offerings from the food carts. Skewers of who-knows-what (delicious!), fried pancakes (greasier than I expected, but tasty), and a drink that tasted suspiciously like fermented… something. I survived. Barely.
- 20:00 - Live Music and the Emotional Rollercoaster. Found a bar with live music. The musicians were incredible. And the emotions… the emotions got the best of me. The music was beautiful, and the whole experience brought forth a wave of reflection, the beauty of being here, and the slight terror of being so far from anything familiar.
- 22:00 - Back to Hanting. Nighttime. Sleep… please?
Day 3: Altitude, Anxiety, and Unexpected Delights
- 07:00 - Wake Up! (Groaning). Altitude. I think it's finally hitting me. A slight headache. Achy limbs. And the profound sense of "What am I doing here?"
- 08:00 - Breakfast: (Mystery Meat Edition). Another hotel breakfast. This time, the boiled egg was… a little green. I opted for the mystery meat and some congee. (I think.)
- 09:00 - Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Attempt 1). The biggest attraction in the area, and I wanted to do this. Booked a trip. Realized I’d underestimated how demanding the mountain is. The cable car up seemed to float through the clouds. The view at the summit looked like something out of a painting, but I spent about 10 minutes up there before my lungs started to reject the extreme altitude. I can't even describe the feeling of struggling to breathe. It was both exhilarating and terrifying.
- 14:00 - Back to the Hanting to Sleep. Rested and relaxed finally. It was a much-needed activity, and I really wasn't feeling myself.
- 16:00 - Evening stroll, searching for a bar.
- 18:00 - Dinner (Comfort Food): Found a small Sichuan restaurant close to the hotel. It delivered! Hotpot. Perfect.
- 20:00 - Write in my journal, Reflect.
- 22:00 - Bed:
Day 4: Departure. (Maybe a little sad?)
- 08:00 - Breakfast: This is how it goes. More questionable food.
- 09:00 - Last-Minute Souvenir Hunt. I needed to get some presents. Hit the shops surrounding the hotel.
- 11:00 - Checkout. Goodbye Hanting. The room wasn't perfect, but it was a safe haven.
- 12:00 - Taxi to the Airport.
- 14:00 - Flight. Goodbye, Lijiang!
Reflections:
Lijiang. Holy moly. It was a beautiful, chaotic, exhausting, exhilarating, and utterly unforgettable experience. The food challenged me (sometimes literally). The crowds tested my patience. The altitude punched me in the gut. But the beauty of the scenery, the kindness of the people (even if we could barely communicate), and the sheer experience… it made it all worthwhile. Would I go back? Absolutely. Maybe next
Escape to Paradise: Austria's Stunning Weisses Lamm Hotel Awaits
Escape to Paradise: Hanting Hotel's Lijiang Old Town Oasis... or Maybe Just a Very Nice Nap? FAQs (and My Rambling Thoughts)
Okay, so is this place REALLY an "Oasis" or just, you know, a hotel? Be honest.
Alright, look, "oasis" is a strong word. More like... a pleasant watering hole in the middle of a slightly hectic desert. Lijiang Old Town is buzzing. Like, mosquito-buzzing-in-your-ear buzzing. So, yes, the Hanting Hotel *is* a welcome respite. Think of it as a quiet-ish bubble. Could you mistake it for a five-star resort? Nah. But for the price, and the location, it's a solid win. I almost lost my mind in the main square, the relentless crowds and the sheer volume of "authentic" trinkets. Stepping back into the hotel felt like someone finally turned down the dial on the world. Small victories, people. Small victories.
The Location! Tell me about the location! Is it actually 'in' Old Town? And is it easy to get to, or is it a maze?
Okay, the location is *key*, people. It's *in* Old Town. Seriously, you walk out the door, and you’re basically tripping over cobblestones and tea houses. It's a *good* kind of dizzying because... imagine having a proper map? I’m not that sort of person! Getting there? Not a maze, thankfully. The hotel’s directions were surprisingly easy to follow. Even *I* (and trust me, I've gotten lost in a grocery store), made it no problem. You can book a pickup, but taxis are also readily available. Just, maybe, confirm the price beforehand. I got slightly ripped off on the way *in*, the taxi driver was very friendly, but, ah, the bill, not so much (lesson learned, always have a local with you for the first ride, the struggle is real).
What about the rooms? Are they... clean? (This is a big one for me.)
Clean? Yes! Blessedly clean! I’m a bit of a germaphobe (don't judge!). The rooms were spotless. The bedding was fresh, everything smelled... neutral (which, in my book, is a HUGE win over "smelling of something that's trying *way* too hard"). The bathroom was also completely acceptable, no creepy mold. The little touches like a decent hairdryer (a must!) and the complimentary water bottles were much appreciated. The only tiny gripe? Well, maybe a slightly stronger water pressure in the shower. But hey, for the price, and the cleanliness, I'm not complaining. This is important. I’m not a huge fan of the cold, but it’s better than some other places I’ve been (I'm looking at you, budget hostel bathroom in Thailand!).
Food! What's the breakfast situation? And are there good food options nearby?
Breakfast... it was included, which is always a bonus. Chinese-style breakfast, so expect congee (rice porridge), some sort of savory buns (which I loved), and maybe a fried egg or two. It wasn’t gourmet, but it was filling and got the job done. And honestly, after wandering around Old Town and the sensory overload of the street food, a simple cup of tea and some plain porridge was… well, it was *therapeutic*. Outside the hotel? Food options galore! Street food (naturally), tea houses, little restaurants serving local specialties. I got seriously addicted to Yak meat skewers. Warning: they *will* try to sell you things. A LOT of things. Be prepared to politely decline (or, you know, succumb, like I did with the adorable, but completely useless, carved wooden flute). Oh! And the Naxi people? So helpful (even if they are sometimes trying to sell you something too).
Is there anything *bad* about this place? Be real!
Okay, honesty time. *Nothing* is perfect, right? The walls *might* be a little thin. You could hear the person in the next room (they had a very loud snore). And there was a wedding party in the courtyard one night, and even with the double glazing, it was a bit noisy. Not ideal if you’re a light sleeper. But, to be fair, it *was* a wedding; how can you be mad? Just pack some earplugs. Also, the Wi-Fi... it wasn't the fastest, it's not the end of the world, but it's worth mentioning. And one more incredibly minor detail, which made me laugh: the staff, while perfectly polite, seemed to disappear at certain off-peak hours. Not a huge problem mind you, but it was a little like they were playing hide-and-seek (I think they were just on break!).
So, overall, would you recommend it?
Yes. Absolutely. I would recommend it. For the price, the location, and the cleanliness, it's a solid choice. It's not a luxury resort, no. But it IS a comfortable, convenient base for exploring Lijiang Old Town. Just go in with realistic expectations (and maybe some earplugs for the snorers!). Would I go back? Actually, yes. I would. I'm already thinking about those Yak meat skewers... and that slightly less hectic bubble of a hotel room. If you're looking for a good value and a good location, go for it.
Tell me more about that courtyard... I saw some pictures, and it looked lovely.
Oh, the courtyard! Okay, this is where it got good. It's a classic Chinese courtyard with a little pond, plants, and these amazing old buildings. It's super atmospheric, and the courtyard's magic really comes alive at dusk. Seriously, the way the light filtered through the leaves... I spent HOURS just sitting there, people-watching, and sipping tea. I even got to see a family playing mahjong, which was the most charming thing ever. The wedding was a bit loud (mentioned it before), but the courtyard itself is a gem. This courtyard! It's like a private little oasis within the oasis! In the morning, it's completely silent except for the birds. In the evening, you might hear a bit of the local music. I did one thing that's crucial: one evening, I sat out in the courtyard and played cards. I was so relaxed, I think I dozed off! Woke up to the stars, which was a little spooky, but so, so wonderful. It's worth staying there, even if it's only to enjoy the courtyard (and maybe take a nap in a comfortable chair!).
Did you actually manage to "Escape to Paradise" as the hotel advertises it?
"Escape to Paradise"... it's a bit of a stretch. Let's be real. Paradise implies heavenly perfection, and, well, there were those noisy nights and the occasional questionable Wi-Fi. But I *did* escape the constant hustle of the OldDigital Nomad Hotels
