As we are used to hotels and hostels, serviced apartments are a new kind of accommodation for us. Since we planned on staying in and around Shanghai for a good week, we figured having something closer to a home would make us feel comfortable. Also, truth is, it was nearing the end of our trip and eating out three meals a day, everyday for five weeks, has taken a toll on our digestive systems. We were longing for some lighter, home made food, fruits, vegetables and, most of all, dairy products! Milk and yogurt are scarce in the Chinese diet.
The Service:
At check-in, we were confronted with some problems about our reservation. The staff did not find our names in the system. The issue did get resolved. Although the wait was rather long, the staff was friendly, so the experience was still a positive one.
The Location:
We have reserved online a one-bedroom studio at Rayfont Apartment and Hotel. There are many different ones in the city. Ours was The Hongiao one, to the west of HuangPu river and central Shanghai. It was a short 15 minutes cab ride from the Shanghai Railway station. Although located quite centrally in the city, the transit is difficult to and from the hotel because it involves a lengthy walk to the nearest subway station. There are very few shops and restaurants nearby, the neighbourhood harbouring many office buildings. We did try the Starbucks coffee a block down, which tasted horribly like coffee-flavored water (for 30 yuans!)
The Room:
Very spacious for an apartment in the city. Clean and well-furnished, but with a lacklustre decor. Everything you need is there, but no wow factor. The living space includes a good size sofa and TV, small table with four chairs and a complete kitchenette. The bedroom is separate with two queen size beds and lots of storage in the closets.
Overall a good value for price in Shanghai if you don’t mind the walk to the nearest subway station. I would probably not go back again, due to its less optimal location. As our vacation time is so limited these days, I would rather invest more and save more time to visit the city.
Rayfont Hongqiao Apartment & Hotel Shanghai [7/10]
1066 Yan’An Road West
Changning District, Shanghai 200052,
Tel : +1-866-332-3590 (US and Canada)