Shanghai Staycation

At the end of this long, hot summer, a break from the oppressive heat and associated stress is important for peace of mind. Whether you are interested in a weekend of romance, shopping, Expo adventures or a boutique hotel experience, why leave town when four of Shanghai’s newest destination hotels are only a taxi ride away?

Fairmont Peace Hotel

Why: Elegance and decadence. Take a time machine back to the heady days of 1930s Shanghai – not literally of course, that would be silly, it just feels as though you’ve gone back in time.

Newly reopened after an extensive three year renovation, the Fairmont Peace Hotel is an immersive celebration of Shanghai’s storied past. It’s the perfect setting to experience the legendary days of the city’s original golden age. The art deco landmark, completed in 1929, has been fully restored to its former glory, complete with a stunning sky-lit lobby, 270 luxurious rooms and suites, a selection of six restaurants and lounges, museum and iconic Peace Hall with its sprung wood dance floor. Throughout the property the attention to detail is remarkable; an immense amount of meticulous care went into returning the venue to the era from whence it came.

Guestrooms begin at a spacious 49 square metres and feature all the modern amenities, albeit well-integrated into the period decoration. Suites include a sitting room and larger bathrooms; the famous ‘Nine Nation Suites’, from the original Cathay Hotel, also remain a feature. Other highlights include the Jazz Bar, the signature Chinese restaurant Dragon Phoenix and The Cathay Room – European dining with sensational terraced views of the Bund and Pudong’s skyline. The hotel is simply not to be missed for anyone interested in spending a romantically hisoric weekend on the Bund. Prices for a two-night weekend stay in late September begin at RMB 4,800.

Web: www.fairmont.com