Sep 21, 2014, 8:38 pm
Sheraton Shanghai Hongkou Hotel, China, Opened Jan 2011 [Master Thread]
Jan 15, 2011, 11:01 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 1,952
Sheraton Shanghai Hongkou Hotel, China, Opened Jan 2011 [Master Thread]
As promised, here is a detailed report of my current stay at Sheraton Hongkou.
I stayed at Hyatt on the Bund the night before, and Sheraton Hongkou is actually visible from the Hyatt. It was a nice day out today, so I told the driver to take my luggage in the car, and then I took a leisurely stroll from HOTB to Sheraton Hongkou. The walk is about 20-25 minutes (slightly longer than from Westin Bund to Le Royal Meridien Shanghai), and goes through mainly residential areas.
Indeed, the hotel is in the middle of a residential district. Absolutely no business or restaurants around. The Hailun Road Metro Station is across the street. For me, though, this location works fine, as I can take the metro to East Nanjing Road Station, where I frequently go. And, a few more stops would get me to Xintiandi.
There is still a lot of work to be done outside the hotel. Workers were still putting finished touches to landscaping, roads, carpark spaces, etc.
The lobby is quite big, but furniture was quite sparse. There is a few sofas and chairs on the right-hand side upon entering the lobby, and on the left-hand side is the Lobby Lounge and Links by Sheraton. Facing the front are the reception desks.
Checkin was quick and easy. They gave me a welcome gift to celebrate the soft opening of the hotel. I was informed that I had been upgraded, but I neglected to ask whether I had been put into a suite (it turns out I was not). The Platinum amenity of 500 points was automatically offered. The reception lady then showed me up to the room.
I was informed that the Executive Club Lounge was not opened yet, so breakfast could be enjoyed in the Feast Restaurant. For afternoon tea and happy hour, Platinum guests could make use of Links on the Lobby Level. There are no other restaurants currently open.
Obviously, the hallways and the room had the "new construction" smell, which didn't bother me too much, but I could understand how it would bother more sensitive noses, as the smell was quite strong. The room could have used some more cleaning, as there was still construction dust in some minor places.
Some remarks about the room:
1.) There are no racks in the walk-in shower/bath combo. You have to put toiletries on the edge of the bathtub.
2.) One wall of the enclosed toilet is floor-to-ceiling windows. Makes for a nice view when you are "sitting" there.
3.) The internet cable is way too short. For those who have notebooks with the Ethernet socket on the left-hand side (as I do with my Macbook Pro), the cable is not going to reach.
4.) The power socket at the desk is deeply recessed into the return. My notebook charger could not pug into the socket.
5.) Other than a two-page PHOTOCOPY of the in-room dining menu, there is no other documentation in the room.
I am going to go downstairs later to check what the proper upgrade for Platinums will be. If a suite, I just might go request to see one, if they are ready for guests.
I won't bore you with details of the room description (I think my room is the Premier Deluxe room). I have uploaded a set of photos onto flickr. I would suggest to give the hotel another few months to get ramped up before choosing to stay here.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/9312877...7625833509894/
I stayed at Hyatt on the Bund the night before, and Sheraton Hongkou is actually visible from the Hyatt. It was a nice day out today, so I told the driver to take my luggage in the car, and then I took a leisurely stroll from HOTB to Sheraton Hongkou. The walk is about 20-25 minutes (slightly longer than from Westin Bund to Le Royal Meridien Shanghai), and goes through mainly residential areas.
Indeed, the hotel is in the middle of a residential district. Absolutely no business or restaurants around. The Hailun Road Metro Station is across the street. For me, though, this location works fine, as I can take the metro to East Nanjing Road Station, where I frequently go. And, a few more stops would get me to Xintiandi.
There is still a lot of work to be done outside the hotel. Workers were still putting finished touches to landscaping, roads, carpark spaces, etc.
The lobby is quite big, but furniture was quite sparse. There is a few sofas and chairs on the right-hand side upon entering the lobby, and on the left-hand side is the Lobby Lounge and Links by Sheraton. Facing the front are the reception desks.
Checkin was quick and easy. They gave me a welcome gift to celebrate the soft opening of the hotel. I was informed that I had been upgraded, but I neglected to ask whether I had been put into a suite (it turns out I was not). The Platinum amenity of 500 points was automatically offered. The reception lady then showed me up to the room.
I was informed that the Executive Club Lounge was not opened yet, so breakfast could be enjoyed in the Feast Restaurant. For afternoon tea and happy hour, Platinum guests could make use of Links on the Lobby Level. There are no other restaurants currently open.
Obviously, the hallways and the room had the "new construction" smell, which didn't bother me too much, but I could understand how it would bother more sensitive noses, as the smell was quite strong. The room could have used some more cleaning, as there was still construction dust in some minor places.
Some remarks about the room:
1.) There are no racks in the walk-in shower/bath combo. You have to put toiletries on the edge of the bathtub.
2.) One wall of the enclosed toilet is floor-to-ceiling windows. Makes for a nice view when you are "sitting" there.
3.) The internet cable is way too short. For those who have notebooks with the Ethernet socket on the left-hand side (as I do with my Macbook Pro), the cable is not going to reach.
4.) The power socket at the desk is deeply recessed into the return. My notebook charger could not pug into the socket.
5.) Other than a two-page PHOTOCOPY of the in-room dining menu, there is no other documentation in the room.
I am going to go downstairs later to check what the proper upgrade for Platinums will be. If a suite, I just might go request to see one, if they are ready for guests.
I won't bore you with details of the room description (I think my room is the Premier Deluxe room). I have uploaded a set of photos onto flickr. I would suggest to give the hotel another few months to get ramped up before choosing to stay here.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/9312877...7625833509894/
Last edited by Fly Me To The Moon; Jan 15, 2011 at 11:15 pm
Apr 11, 2011, 4:24 am
#2
Join Date: Jun 2001
Location: SAN
Programs: AS 100K, DL MM, AA PLT
Posts: 2,934
Just checked in after a few nights at the LM. The grounds still need much work---landscaping is yet to be completed and some of the signage outside is temporary. Inside, however, the hotel appears (almost) fully open for business. I get the feeling, however, that occupancy is quite low. I'd say I've seen less than 10 other guests during my few hours here, either in the lobby or the lounge.
The staff was exceedingly friendly and happy to please, although the woman who showed me to my room spoke very limited english: I asked "How long has the hotel been open?" and she was completely flummoxed. There was a note in my room, however, that asked for guests' patience as the staff learned the ropes. Somewhat surprising for a hotel that's been open three months now.
Unlike the OP, I was upgraded as a Plat to an enormous suite with dining area, living area, walk-in closet, and two baths ^ (Much, much nicer than the junior suite I received at the LM.) Only complaint about the room is that it does not (yet?) have Internet, either wireless or wired. There was a Cat5 cable at the desk, but plugging it in revealed that it was not live. None of the OP's complaints above applied to my room.
The lounge is not nearly as grand as the one at the LM, but it is well appointed with a nice mix of sofas, comfy chairs, and proper tables and chairs. The evening cocktail buffet spread is quite nice, including sushi, chinese, and western options. I'm happy to report the wireless Internet does work fine here.
I think I'll go back to the LM next time I'm in town, but I'd imagine the upgrades will continue to be much more dramatic here if you're willing to take the metro a few stops away from the action.
The staff was exceedingly friendly and happy to please, although the woman who showed me to my room spoke very limited english: I asked "How long has the hotel been open?" and she was completely flummoxed. There was a note in my room, however, that asked for guests' patience as the staff learned the ropes. Somewhat surprising for a hotel that's been open three months now.
Unlike the OP, I was upgraded as a Plat to an enormous suite with dining area, living area, walk-in closet, and two baths ^ (Much, much nicer than the junior suite I received at the LM.) Only complaint about the room is that it does not (yet?) have Internet, either wireless or wired. There was a Cat5 cable at the desk, but plugging it in revealed that it was not live. None of the OP's complaints above applied to my room.
The lounge is not nearly as grand as the one at the LM, but it is well appointed with a nice mix of sofas, comfy chairs, and proper tables and chairs. The evening cocktail buffet spread is quite nice, including sushi, chinese, and western options. I'm happy to report the wireless Internet does work fine here.
I think I'll go back to the LM next time I'm in town, but I'd imagine the upgrades will continue to be much more dramatic here if you're willing to take the metro a few stops away from the action.
Apr 26, 2011, 12:00 pm
#3
Join Date: Apr 2010
Programs: AA EXP, SPG Plat, HH Silver
Posts: 59
any other feedback?
Thanks to those that gave their reviews; I'm considering stopping in at this property next week as long as I'm in town and was wondering if anyone else has stayed there in the couple weeks since the last post? If so, any additional thoughts?
Thanks.
Thanks.
May 6, 2011, 5:03 am
#4
Join Date: Apr 2010
Programs: AA EXP, SPG Plat, HH Silver
Posts: 59
Good stay
So, I took a chance and as long as I'm mattress hopping (stay 3 and all that), tried out the Sheraton Hongkou.
The property is literally across the street from the Hailun Rd. metro station. Use exit 5, walk straight out the exit and you'll end up on a corner. The hotel is across the street. Just in case it is of any use to anyone, using the metro and walking it is exactly one hour door to door from the Sheraton Hongqiao (I'm guessing 15 minutes by cab).
Lobby is almost completely finished now, check-in was smooth. GM (Neil) walked by, introduced himself, was very nice. Unfortunately I was distracted enough to let go of my bag so was escorted upstairs by a bellhop and a girl from the front desk. I personally try to minimize the pampering stuff, but I realize some folks expect it (especially in Asia).
I had been upgraded to what seems to be a similar room as a previous poster; large entrance, dining area (table for 4; could seat 6), living room, bedroom, 1.5 baths, etc. etc. Very nice.
Seems like some things have been almost finished since others have been here:
- internet is working (both wired and wireless)
- wireless internet is currently free (for the non-plats out there that care)
- wireless is everywhere - literally from the top floor (lounge) to the basement (fitness area)
- the shower in this room has shelves
- We are down to a one page print-out of the room service menu. There is now - for those that need it - the standard binder with hotel info.
As someone said, the lounge is nice, well stocked. We'll see what breakfast holds, but I imagine it's fine. Lounge is fairly large, and it was empty. Quite literally me and about 12 various appetizers. And 5 staff members trying to help me (all very friendly).
Overall, I like this property and will probably add it to the rotation. The only thing I noticed which I presume (hope?) is simply because the facility isn't finished is that the fitness center is lacking. 4 treadmills which is fine (interestingly enough they are all different models - I guess they got them used?), one recumbent bike (which I would usually scoff at, but it was handy to feel productive while downloading e-mail), a fly machine, and two sets of dumbell bars with assorted weight plates. No benches (although one semi-inflated stability ball), no other machines (cardio or weight), no standard dumbbells, etc. But. . . there was additional space in the facility (including a separate room that looked like a cardio studio of sorts), and. . . it is open 24 hours. So I hold out hope.
The pool is very nice. Indoor, about 20 or 25 meters long. Might go for a dip in the AM.
The property is literally across the street from the Hailun Rd. metro station. Use exit 5, walk straight out the exit and you'll end up on a corner. The hotel is across the street. Just in case it is of any use to anyone, using the metro and walking it is exactly one hour door to door from the Sheraton Hongqiao (I'm guessing 15 minutes by cab).
Lobby is almost completely finished now, check-in was smooth. GM (Neil) walked by, introduced himself, was very nice. Unfortunately I was distracted enough to let go of my bag so was escorted upstairs by a bellhop and a girl from the front desk. I personally try to minimize the pampering stuff, but I realize some folks expect it (especially in Asia).
I had been upgraded to what seems to be a similar room as a previous poster; large entrance, dining area (table for 4; could seat 6), living room, bedroom, 1.5 baths, etc. etc. Very nice.
Seems like some things have been almost finished since others have been here:
- internet is working (both wired and wireless)
- wireless internet is currently free (for the non-plats out there that care)
- wireless is everywhere - literally from the top floor (lounge) to the basement (fitness area)
- the shower in this room has shelves
- We are down to a one page print-out of the room service menu. There is now - for those that need it - the standard binder with hotel info.
As someone said, the lounge is nice, well stocked. We'll see what breakfast holds, but I imagine it's fine. Lounge is fairly large, and it was empty. Quite literally me and about 12 various appetizers. And 5 staff members trying to help me (all very friendly).
Overall, I like this property and will probably add it to the rotation. The only thing I noticed which I presume (hope?) is simply because the facility isn't finished is that the fitness center is lacking. 4 treadmills which is fine (interestingly enough they are all different models - I guess they got them used?), one recumbent bike (which I would usually scoff at, but it was handy to feel productive while downloading e-mail), a fly machine, and two sets of dumbell bars with assorted weight plates. No benches (although one semi-inflated stability ball), no other machines (cardio or weight), no standard dumbbells, etc. But. . . there was additional space in the facility (including a separate room that looked like a cardio studio of sorts), and. . . it is open 24 hours. So I hold out hope.
The pool is very nice. Indoor, about 20 or 25 meters long. Might go for a dip in the AM.
May 15, 2011, 10:43 pm
#5
Original Poster
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 1,952
Currently staying in the hotel now, and got upgraded to the huge suite reported by previous poster.
I had an early-morning breakfast meeting at Grand Hyatt in Pudong this morning, and I just realized how convenient it is to get from The Sheraton Hongkou over to Lujiazui in Pudong. Basically, you can take a taxi from Sheraton, which would then go down Hailun Road for about 1.5 km, and then this connects directly to the Xinjian Road Tunnel. Upon exiting the tunnel on the Pudong side, you are in Lujiazui already. No traffic at all, and cost me only RMB 15 for the taxi ride. More important, it took only 7-8 minutes door to door.
I had an early-morning breakfast meeting at Grand Hyatt in Pudong this morning, and I just realized how convenient it is to get from The Sheraton Hongkou over to Lujiazui in Pudong. Basically, you can take a taxi from Sheraton, which would then go down Hailun Road for about 1.5 km, and then this connects directly to the Xinjian Road Tunnel. Upon exiting the tunnel on the Pudong side, you are in Lujiazui already. No traffic at all, and cost me only RMB 15 for the taxi ride. More important, it took only 7-8 minutes door to door.
May 16, 2011, 12:16 am
#6
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: FLL
Programs: UA: 1K MM, Marriott Ambassador, Platinum IHG. Diamond: Hilton. Silver: Delta & Hyatt
Posts: 1,366
Stayed there the weekend of F1 in Shanghai. It was a pretty nice SPG hotel overall and much better then the Sheraton Hongqiao but not as nice as Westin or Le Meridian. Subway station was extremely convenient and as a Platinum member I got upgraded to a huge suite.
Jul 25, 2011, 12:48 pm
#7
Join Date: Jun 2009
Programs: SPG Platinum, United 1K, Star Alliance Gold
Posts: 137
any recent stays here?
I am particularly interested in the area immediately surrounding the area.
Is there anything in terms of dining/drinking? I know that the subway is convenient but that is not my question.
As a former resident of Shanghai, Hongkou is still a mystery to me as it was and still seems mostly residential.
I am particularly interested in the area immediately surrounding the area.
Is there anything in terms of dining/drinking? I know that the subway is convenient but that is not my question.
As a former resident of Shanghai, Hongkou is still a mystery to me as it was and still seems mostly residential.
Jul 25, 2011, 12:59 pm
#8
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: GVA (Greater Vancouver Area)
Programs: DREAD Gold; UA 1.035MM; Bonvoy Au-197; PCC Elite+; CCC Elite+; MSC C-12; CWC Au-197; WoH Dis
Posts: 52,140
We stayed there at the beginning of June. As I recall, it was a bit difficult finding the entrance (there was still a lot of construction). It didn't seem like there was a lot to do in the area, so this is really more of a place for sleeping than for partying. The room was amazing, with the view from the full length window in the second bathroom being something not to be missed.
Jul 25, 2011, 1:37 pm
#9
Join Date: Jun 2009
Programs: SPG Platinum, United 1K, Star Alliance Gold
Posts: 137
We stayed there at the beginning of June. As I recall, it was a bit difficult finding the entrance (there was still a lot of construction). It didn't seem like there was a lot to do in the area, so this is really more of a place for sleeping than for partying. The room was amazing, with the view from the full length window in the second bathroom being something not to be missed.
I'll likely give it a try for a night or two next month but will spend the majority of my nights as usual at LRM.
Jul 25, 2011, 2:50 pm
#10
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: GVA (Greater Vancouver Area)
Programs: DREAD Gold; UA 1.035MM; Bonvoy Au-197; PCC Elite+; CCC Elite+; MSC C-12; CWC Au-197; WoH Dis
Posts: 52,140
Jul 28, 2011, 3:15 pm
#11
Join Date: Apr 2010
Programs: AA EXP, SPG Plat, HH Silver
Posts: 59
Can anyone give an update on the facilities available yet? (ie: is the gym finished yet) Planning a trip for late next month and waffling between PuDong, Hongqiao, and this property. (location isn't really an issue for at least a couple of the nights.)
Thanks!
Norm
Thanks!
Norm
Aug 1, 2011, 7:46 pm
#12
Company Representative - Starwood
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Guangzhou
Programs: SPG
Posts: 1,021
Hi TriNorm, my colleague at the property told me that renovation for the hotel gym equipment and fantastic swimming pool is completed and the in-house guests can use for free.
Now the property is having several attractive packages: like opening promotion, sneak away and buy 2 get 1 free. These packages are available on the property website: http://deals.sheraton.com/Sheraton-S...72&iATANumber=
Best regards,
Christina Zhou | Social Media Specialist (AP)
Starwood Customer Contact Centre (AP) Pte Ltd
Now the property is having several attractive packages: like opening promotion, sneak away and buy 2 get 1 free. These packages are available on the property website: http://deals.sheraton.com/Sheraton-S...72&iATANumber=
Best regards,
Christina Zhou | Social Media Specialist (AP)
Starwood Customer Contact Centre (AP) Pte Ltd
Jan 13, 2012, 11:07 am
#14
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: Shanghai
Programs: SPG Pt.
Posts: 189