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.