China is a destination that never ceases to fascinate its numerous visitors who are looking for uniquely different experiences. The Oriental charm, vibrant nightlife, interesting folklore, awe-inspiring architecture and yummy gourmet selections are just some of the reasons why many visitors find the “Middle Kingdom” such an alluring place.
The memorable experiences of these visitors are also in no small part attributable to the rapidly-improving hotel industry in the country that constantly seeks to reinvent itself to meet the high standards expected by their guests. In this country, you can expect to find a plethora of clean and safe accommodation options including luxury hotels, inns and guesthouses that suits every budget and taste, regardless of which town or city you visit.
Whichever price category your accommodation fits in, you can expect only the very best in Asian warmth and hospitality during your stay in hotels in China.
From budget to luxury a huge choice of accommodation options at your disposal
The accommodation options in China are as diverse as the country itself, but they have one goal in common to provide a comfortable and pleasant stay to all guests regardless of their star rating. If you are on a shoestring budget, the one- to two-star hotels will not disappoint in providing a relaxing place for you to rest in between your travels. The two-star hotels even have barber shops and stores on site.
In many large cities, the budget hotel chains even go one step further in providing a host of in-room amenities, such as free Internet connectivity and plugs that come with universal adapters that are useful for business executives or tech-savvy travelers. Hence, you may be surprised by what these budget hotels offer that would allow them to stay ahead of their competition by being more in touch with their guests needs.
What about the hotels that are rated three-star and above? In China, the good news is these hotels are comparable in standards and offerings to what you can expect in the West. Concierge services, on-site health, business and conference facilities, bars and a range of restaurants catering to both Western and Chinese palettes you name it, they have it.
Abundance in English-speaking hotel staff
Being a country that is eager to accommodate non-Chinese-speaking foreign visitors, you will be amazed at the quickly-improving command of the language by the staff of many of the hotels. This is especially so with 5 star hotels where the staff are mostly competent in the language, while the cheaper hotels at least have front desk personnel who are able to understand your request and queries, and communicate with you in basic English. However, to be on the safe side, a Chinese phrasebook might be useful to bring along just in case you might need it.
Drinking water in your hotel rooms
Before you turn on your bathroom tap to drink, do be aware that it is generally not advisable to drink tap water in the hotel. You need not worry though, as you are likely to find hot water flasks or electrical boilers at your disposal in your room. You may also want to consider purchasing cheap bottled mineral water, some of which may be provided free of charge in your hotel room.
Some other helpful information
Do note that showing a photo ID, such as your passport, is required when checking into your hotels. Worried about getting lost while wandering outside your hotel? Do not fear, as your hotel room card would contain all the information that is needed to ask for directions and guide you back to your hotel. Hence do remember to bring it with you wherever you go.