Suzhou Supplement: Hotel Talk: Fraser Suites Suzhou
Located in one of the 55-storey twin towers of the iconic Global 188, a mixed-use complex complete with shopping mall and access to Suzhou’s metro line 1 (scheduled to open in 2012), Fraser Suites Suzhou is positioned right in the heart of the Suzhou Industrial Park, the city’s burgeoning eastern district. While staying here, guests at the property are just minutes away from Jinji Lake and Ligongdi, two of Suzhou’s most sought after leisure destinations.
Opened this past year, the Fraser Suites Suzhou is one of the newest properties in the Frasers Hospitality family, a Singapore-based serviced apartment provider. Walking into one of its well-appointed 276 suites, it’s easy to see how the Fraser Suites Suzhou differs from a five-star hotel. With a washing machine and dryer, a full-sized refrigerator and even an oven and dishwasher in most of the suites, from first glance it’s clear that these suites are made to be more like home and less a luxurious place to lay one’s head while traveling.
That’s not to say these suites aren’t luxurious. You’ll find satellite-equipped LCD TVs in both the living room and bedrooms, a rain showerhead complemented by a full-sized bathtub in the bathroom and spectacular views across the city from just about every room. And even if the idea of luxury time away from the office doesn’t compute for you, each suite comes equipped with a mini office complete with both a broadband and wi-fi internet connection to help you blast through your newest project.
In addition to its rooms, Fraser Suites Suzhou also offers exclusive public areas for kicking back when not out and about. The Pinnacle, sitting on the top floor of the tower features a cigar bar, juice bar, library and tai qi court for relaxing as well as two meeting rooms with inspiring views of the city. In the floors below, you’ll find a gymnasium with 24 hour access with sauna, steam room and a children’s play area. Outside you’ll also find a swimming pool and private garden perfect for grabbing a needed bit of rest during the summer months.
Each morning breakfast is served featuring Western-style Continental breakfast including fresh juices, toast, cereal, sausages and an omelet station. Perhaps best of all in terms of the Fraser Suites Suzhou’s food offerings its 24 hour room service providing light Western fare and classic Chinese dishes like Hainan chicken at reasonable prices.
And while the Fraser Suites Suzhou is designed with the extended-stay business traveler in mind, the property is also great for families looking to spend a week in Suzhou away from the bustle of Shanghai. With three bedroom apartments available, you can be sure that the whole family can join.
