Shanghai's Hidden Gem: Qibao's Hanting Premium Hotel Awaits!
Shanghai's Hidden Gem: Qibao's Hanting Premium Hotel Awaits! (Or Does It? A Messy Review)
Okay, buckle up, because I'm about to spill the tea (or maybe the lukewarm, slightly-stale coffee from the hotel's restaurant… more on that later) on the Hanting Premium in Qibao, Shanghai. This place… well, it's an experience. A sometimes-frustrating, sometimes-delightful, always-interesting experience. Let's dive in, shall we? And be warned, I'm not holding back!
Accessibility: The Good and the… Not So Good
So, "accessibility." This is important, right? Well, the Hanting tries. There IS an elevator (thank GOD, because my room was on the… well, let's just say "higher floor"). They say they have "Facilities for disabled guests," but I didn't get a chance to fully assess them. Hopefully, the ramps and such are actually functional, but you might want to call ahead and double-check if you have specific needs. Honestly, it's a crap shoot sometimes in China.
Cleanliness and Safety: The Sanitization Samba
Right, let's talk about the elephant in the room (or the invisible virus circulating in the air): COVID. The Hanting claims to be on it. They've got "Anti-viral cleaning products," "Daily disinfection in common areas," and "Rooms sanitized between stays." They also offer "Room sanitization opt-out available," which… okay, I guess? Do I want to breathe in sanitized air? I'm not sure. They also boast "Staff trained in safety protocol" and "Hand sanitizer" everywhere. The "Physical distancing of at least 1 meter" felt… well, generally ignored by the incredibly bustling breakfast buffet. More on that later. I definitely saw “Hot water linen and laundry washing” – that’s important for sure! The first aid kit seems good, though.
The Rooms: My Sanctuary… Or?
The room itself? Okay, so the name "Premium" might be a slight overstatement. Let’s be real. It’s clean, mostly. They’ve got the usual stuff: "Air conditioning," which was a godsend in the Shanghai humidity, "Alarm clock," which, let's be honest, is just a phone these days, and "Blackout curtains," which are ESSENTIAL for battling jet lag. They also have "Coffee/tea maker," that might be a game changer, but the quality of the coffee… let's just say it wasn't the highlight of my stay. "Free bottled water" is a lifesaver, though! Good quality too. "Wi-Fi [free]" is a must, and thankfully, it worked (mostly). The "Bathrobes" and "Slippers" were decent -- I always judge a hotel on those! The pillows weren't the softest I've had, but the bed was comfortable. There’s also a "Mini bar," but I wouldn't get my hopes up for anything exciting… probably just water and maybe some weirdly-flavored crisps. Oh, and they do have an "In-room safe box," which is reassuring because walking around Shanghai with anything valuable is a recipe for disaster.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure… of Sorts
Here's where things get… interesting. Let's start with the breakfast buffet. "Asian breakfast," "Breakfast [buffet]," "Buffet in restaurant,” "International cuisine in restaurant.” It's a madhouse. Picture a scrum of hungry people wielding tongs, grabbing everything in sight. The "Asian cuisine in restaurant" options were… well, they were there. The "Western breakfast" stuff was probably best avoided, unless you're a fan of rubbery eggs. You can get "Coffee/tea in restaurant," but as I mentioned, don't expect anything gourmet, and there’s a "Breakfast service," which means you can get breakfast in your room, the waiter told me, but it was never on time and the quality wasn't great. I didn’t see any "Vegetarian restaurant" options beyond the few slightly sad-looking salads. There is a "Bar," and sometimes I needed it! Also, thankfully, a "Convenience store" nearby.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: Seeking Serenity (Good Luck!)
Now, the "Pool with view" is the big draw, right? Well, it COULD be. The problem is… I didn't see a pool. Maybe it’s "Swimming pool [outdoor]," but I assumed it was closed. And while they do have a "Fitness center", I never saw it open! "Spa" options seem limited. No “Body scrub” for me, and I didn't spot the “Sauna,” "Steamroom," or “Spa/sauna” either. It's possible these amenities exist, but finding them felt like a scavenger hunt.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things
"Concierge?" Available. "Currency exchange?" Check. "Daily housekeeping?" Yep, they were constantly cleaning. They have "Laundry service", which is a lifesaver. The "Elevator" is functional. They proudly offer "Luggage storage." "Cash withdrawal?" You betcha! They offer "Airport transfer," which you definity should take… because the traffic is INSANE. They have a "Gift/souvenir shop"… which I missed.
Getting Around: Navigating the Chaos
"Car park [free of charge]" is a bonus. "Taxi service" is readily available. I saw "Car power charging station."
For the Kids: Family Fun?
They are "Family/child friendly". I'm guessing the "Babysitting service" is a godsend for weary parents!
In conclusion…
The Hanting Premium in Qibao is… a mixed bag. It's not a luxury resort. It's not flawless. It's in the beautiful, old part of Qibao town, which is so nice! The hotel itself has its flaws. It’s a bit rough around the edges. However… it’s clean, functional, and definitely a step up from a budget hostel. It's mostly safe, the location is decent, and the price is right.
My Verdict: If you're on a budget, want to stay in a unique part of Shanghai, and don't mind a few quirks, then yeah, give it a shot! If you're expecting perfection? Temper those expectations.
An Offer You Can’t Refuse (Maybe):
Escape to the Heart of Old Shanghai: Qibao's Hanting Premium Awaits!
Tired of cookie-cutter hotels? Yearning for a taste of authentic Shanghai? Then ditch the sterile luxury and embrace the slightly-imperfect, utterly-charming Hanting Premium in Qibao!
Book NOW and receive:
- A FREE upgrade to a room with a "Window that opens" that overlooks the bustling streets of Qibao (subject to availability – first come, first served!).
- A complimentary bottle of local beer upon arrival (because, let's be honest, you'll need it after navigating the breakfast buffet!).
- 20% discount on all spa treatments and massage (if you can actually find them open!).
- Free Wi-Fi! (because we know that’s essential)
Why the Hanting Premium?
- Unbeatable Location: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Qibao, explore the ancient canals, and dive into delicious street food.
- Clean & Safe environment: Relax with our detailed health protocols.
- Budget-Friendly: Experience Shanghai without breaking the bank.
- The Adventure of a Lifetime: (Okay, maybe not a lifetime, but definitely a memorable trip!)
Click here to book your stay and experience the REAL Shanghai! (And don't say I didn't warn you about the coffee!)
P.S. Seriously, the Qibao neighborhood is worth the trip alone. The Hanting is a solid base camp for exploring. You might find some quirks, but it's part of the charm! So, book your room and prepare to be… well, surprised.
Hakone's Hidden Gem: Uncover Shinanoki Ichinoyu's Secrets!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. We're not just going to Shanghai. We're going to experience Shanghai. And by experience, I mean wrestle with jet lag, almost miss the subway, and probably get lost in the neon glow of a hundred alleyways. This is the Hanting Premium Hotel Shanghai Qibao Jiuting edition, so let's get messy:
The Shanghai Shenanigans: A Messy, Opinionated Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Jet Lag Tango
- Morning (or what passes for it, thanks to the transpacific flight): Arrive at Pudong International Airport (PVG). Dear god, the crowds. My brain feels like scrambled eggs. Finding the subway is already an Olympic sport. Pretty sure I saw a small child selling instant noodles with the ferocity of a seasoned stockbroker. Respect.
- Mid-Morning: Finally, finally, on the subway. The sheer number of people! The rhythmic sway! I think I'm going to throw up. Just kidding! (Maybe.) Transfer line 9 to Qibao Station. Pro tip: Download a translation app. Point and grunt seems to work, but you look like a baboon.
- Late Morning/Early Afternoon: Check in to the Hanting Premium Hotel. It's…clean. Which is a HUGE win in my book. The room is smallish, but hey, I'm not here to live in it. I'm here to wander. Quick nap? Tempting, but jet lag demands defiance!
- Afternoon: FIRST FOOD! Street food is calling! Head out to the Qibao Ancient Town. It's supposedly charming. Get ready to have my taste buds assaulted in the best way possible. Observation: The air smells like a delicious, deep-fried mystery. Found a vendor selling these amazing xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). OH. MY. GOD. Hot, juicy… I almost burned my tongue, but it was worth it. Seriously, seek these out. Get several orders. You won't regret it.
- Evening: Stumble back to the hotel, feeling slightly dazed and dumpling-drenched. Take a shower, and try to plan for tomorrow. Attempted translation of the TV guide produces a list of shows I can't understand. Decide I'll watch some of the local news. Fall asleep on my bed mid-sentence in news anchor.
Day 2: Bund Brawls and Noodle Nightmares
- Morning: Wake up feeling like a zombie. Jet lag wins the night. Coffee is a necessity. Head for the Bund. The Bund is the waterfront area, and it's supposed to be impressive.
- Late Morning: The Bund. The iconic skyline. The crowds. Oh, the crowds! I'll admit it: It's breathtaking. Especially the Oriental Pearl Tower – like something out of a futuristic cartoon. Take some pictures. Try to avoid the selfie sticks of humanity.
- Lunch: Find a local noodle place. This is where it gets messy. The menu is entirely in Chinese. I point randomly at a picture. The waiter gives me a look that clearly says, "You poor, clueless tourist." What arrives is a mountain of noodles, some mystery meat, and a broth that's both intensely flavorful and slightly unsettling. Verdict: Unexpectedly AMAZING.
- Afternoon: Explore more of Shanghai. Try to find some local hidden gems. Get lost. Get turned around. It's all part of the adventure, right? (Narrator voice: It is.) Start to see more of the local life. Try some local tea. Attempt to haggle at a street market – fail miserably, but enjoy the attempt.
- Evening: Dinner. This is where the adventure takes a turn. Found a restaurant that claims to make authentic Shanghai crab. BIG MISTAKE. The crab arrives – and it is… huge. And it is… alive. Ok, it might be a bit dead… but in every possible way I can't deal with eating crab and it is the most disgusting thing I have ever seen. I sit there. I consider running. I leave most of it untouched. Emotional Reaction: Deep, visceral disgust. Followed by serious disappointment. Then a sudden craving for pizza. Lesson learned: Stick to the soup dumplings.
Day 3: Temples, Tea, & The Subway Debacle
- Morning: Feeling slightly shell-shocked from the crab incident. Need to recover, so I'm seeking out something peaceful. Head to the Jing'an Temple. It's an oasis of calm away from the city's hustle. The scent of incense is soothing, the golden Buddhas are beautiful. Spend some time just being.
- Mid-Morning: A tea ceremony. Shanghai is known for its tea culture. Attempt to understand the nuances of different teas, but I mostly just enjoy the ritual, the quiet, and the delicious, warming liquid.
- Lunch: Back to street food! This time, I'm determined to navigate the menu like a pro (or at least, less of a clumsy idiot). I see a sign for jianbing – a kind of savory crepe. Ordered it with the enthusiasm of an Olympian. It's heavenly!
- Afternoon: A disastrous subway experience. I get completely lost. End up on the wrong side of the city. Panic sets in. Ask for help. The kindness of strangers, though! After a lot of pointing, gesturing, and laughter, I'm back on track. Emotional Reaction: Mild hysteria. Followed by a sense of profound gratitude for the kindness of the people.
- Evening: Back to the hotel. Order some delivery food. The translation app is my best friend. Decide I deserve a well-earned rest. Watch some local tv again. I still have no clue what's going on, but I love the feeling.
Day 4: Qibao Explorations & Farewell Feelings
- Morning: Spend some more time exploring Qibao Ancient Town. Take more pictures, this time with a better understanding of the area. Find some souvenirs, try the local snacks, and just soak it all in.
- Lunch: Back to the soup dumplings! Because, you know, priorities.
- Afternoon: Pack my bags. Emotional Reaction: Bitter-sweet. Shanghai is exhausting, exhilarating, and completely unforgettable. I feel like I’ve only scratched the surface, but I’ve experienced something real.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Head back to PVG. The airport feels even more chaotic than the first day. This time, I know the drill. Security, boarding, take off. Shanghai disappears beneath the clouds. Final Thought: I’ll be back. And next time, I’m mastering the crab.
Final Thoughts:
This isn't a perfectly curated itinerary. It's real. It's messy. It's Shanghai. Go with the flow, embrace the chaos, and don't be afraid to get lost. And most importantly, get those soup dumplings. You're welcome.
Hilton Trinidad: Luxury Escape in Port of Spain! ✨
Qibao's Hanting Premium Hotel: Your Unfiltered Guide! (Because Let's Be Real, You Need It)
Okay, spill the tea. Is Qibao's Hanting Premium really a "hidden gem" or just another budget hotel with fancy words?
Alright, alright, let's get this straight. "Hidden gem" is a loaded term, right? Like, *everyone* seems to call everything a gem these days. Look, Hanting Premium in Qibao? It *can* be a gem. BUT (and that’s a big but, Beyoncé!), it depends on your expectations. If you're expecting the Four Seasons, honey, you're in the wrong district. If you're expecting a clean, modern, and surprisingly stylish stay with a killer location for experiencing Qibao's vibes? Then yes, it’s definitely worth a peek. I mean, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how *much* better this place is than, say, the last dingy hostel I stayed in. Remember that? Shudder...
What's the Location like? Seriously, is it *actually* near the Old Town? (Because Google Maps can lie.)
Google Maps, bless its little silicon heart, gets it right *this* time. You're *literally* a stone's throw from Qibao Old Town. Walk out, turn left, and boom! Lanterns, street food, and a million people. It's fantastic! Though, be warned: *crowded*. Like, shoulder-to-shoulder crowded. I remember the first time I went, I got a little disoriented. I just kept thinking, "Where's my personal space?!". So yeah, the location is gold. Perfectly placed for exploring, and thankfully, far enough away that you can escape the chaos when you need to.
Let's talk about the rooms. Are they, you know, *clean*? And what's the deal with the size?
Clean? Yes! They're usually pretty darn clean. Honestly, for the price, I was impressed. The decor is modern, Ikea-esque, but it works. The bed was actually comfortable, which is a win in my book. Size-wise? It's Shanghai, honey. Expect compact. Don't bring your entire wardrobe unless you want to live out of your suitcase. But hey, you're not there to hang around in your room all day, are you? You’re there to eat the *amazing* dumplings!
Okay, what about the breakfast? Because I'm a *breakfast person*. Is it worth the extra yuan?
Breakfast... this is where it gets a touch… *ahem*… inconsistent. They offer your standard buffet fare. Toast, eggs (sometimes), questionable sausages, and some Chinese options. If I'm being brutally honest (which, let's face it, I always am), it's not world-class. But, it's convenient. And, let's be real, the street food in Qibao is *incredible*. So, my advice? Maybe skip the hotel breakfast and head straight for the scallion pancakes outside. Trust me on this one. Your taste buds will thank you. My stomach, however… well, sometimes *it* doesn't thank *me* as much. But, *worth it*.
What about the staff? Are they helpful, or are you left with a bunch of blank stares?
This is where things can vary a bit. The staff's English proficiency can be hit or miss. Some are fluent, some are... less so. But here's the thing - they're usually *trying*. They're generally friendly and helpful. Don't be afraid to use Google Translate! It's your friend in China. I remember once needing help to order a taxi. The lady at the front desk went above and beyond, even though my Mandarin was *atrocious*. She saved the day, and made me realize how precious basic human kindness is.
Is there anything *really* bad about this hotel? Because every place has its flaws, right?
Okay, here's the lowdown. The walls *can* be thin. You might hear your neighbor snoring, or, *shudder*, something a little more… *active*. That's just the reality of budget-friendly stays. Also, the elevators… well, they're elevators. They work (usually), but during peak times, you might be waiting a bit. And, one time, the air conditioning in my room was a little wonky. But, honestly, it was all manageable. For the price, you really can’t complain too much.
Okay, let's circle back on the best and worst parts. Quickfire round!
Best: Location, location, LOCATION! Clean rooms. Surprisingly stylish. Good value for money. The *vibe* of Qibao!
Worst: Thin walls. Breakfast is meh. Elevator waits. Sometimes the air conditioning is iffy. The potential for jet lag induced mood swings.
Look, overall, I'd recommend it. Especially if you're on a budget and want to experience the real Shanghai. Just, you know, bring earplugs. And maybe pack a small bottle of your favorite hangover cure. Just in case. You know, for research purposes.
Real talk, what about accessibility? Is it a nightmare for people with mobility issues?
Okay, this is important. I'm not an expert on accessibility, so I can't say *definitively*. But from what I saw, the hotel seems *relatively* accessible. There are elevators, which is a huge plus. The entrance doesn't have any crazy stairs. However, the hallways and rooms are a bit on the narrow side. I'm not sure how easy maneuvering a wheelchair would be in all parts of the hotel. If you have specific needs, *definitely* call and ask the hotel directly. Don’t rely on my shaky observations! They will give you a *much* better answer. That's my advice. Call them. Seriously.
Would you *actually* stay there again? Or are you just being polite and saying it's "okay"?
Damn, you're pushing me on this one! Okay, fine. Yes. I would. I *have*! And probably will again. See, I'm not a hotel snob. I'm all about the experience. And for me, Qibao's Hanting Premium, gives you a great experience at a decent price. Okay, now, the "fine" part, is because it helps to prepare for disappointment if they're having an off day. But if you're ready to embrace the chaos of Qibao Old Town, this hotel is a solid home base.Hotels With Kitchenettes
