Talk’s Top Hotel Awards 2013: The Contenders Supplement
Talk’s many hotel judges have been rushed off their feet over this past month trying to decide which hotels will make it onto our Top List and win a prized award. Although the results of Talk’s Top Hotel Awards 2013 won’t be announced until our first ever Talk’s Top Hotel Awards Party in October, this supplement is a rundown of the many strong competitors that took part.
Andaz Shanghai
Andaz Shanghai is the first of the Hyatt’s Andaz brand to be introduced in Asia. The Andaz name was taken from the Urdu meaning of ‘personal style’ and therefore it is not surprising that there is a keen attention to detail and focus on style throughout the hotel. Famed design brand, Super Potato, also recently revamped the main eatery Hai Pai and the new Garden Studio. The hotel boasts 307 beautiful rooms and a standout feature for us is the delightful Optime Spa.
Andaz Shanghai. 88 Songshan Lu, near Taicang Lu. Tel: 2310 1234. Web: www.andazshanghai.com
Banyan Tree Shanghai On The Bund
This urban resort is situated in the Northern Bund area of the city and, due to this location, offers spectacular and distinctive views of not only the Luijiazui financial district but also sweeping, unobstructed views of the Huangpu River and historic Bund. TOPS, the terrace bar perched above the hotel, is a must visit for all Shanghai residents and naturally, the famous Banyan Tree Spa brand is also present at the Shanghai On The Bund hotel. We suggest booking in for a treatment ASAP.
Banyan Tree Shanghai On The Bund. 19 Haiping Lu, near Gongping Lu. Tel: 2509 1188. Web: www.banyantree.com
Grand Hyatt Shanghai
The hotel once held the title of “highest hotel in the world” before the Park Hyatt came and stole their mantle. However, the glory days are not over for the Grand Hyatt just yet. The Jin Mao Tower, in which the hotel takes up floors 53 to 87, still offers great views of the Luijiazui district as well as the Bund and the distant Puxi area in the background. Go here for a casual dining experience in one of their many food and beverage outlets.
Grand Hyatt Shanghai. Jin Mao Tower, 53-87/F, 88 Century Avenue, near Dongtai Lu. Tel: 5049 1234. Web: www.shanghai.grand.hyatt.com
Grand Mercure Shanghai Hongqiao
This hotel is conveniently located in the center of Hongqiao district close to many restaurants, bars, shopping and local offices. The Grand Mercure Shanghai is also only a ten-minute drive from Hongqiao airport making it the perfect location for business travellers.
The hotel comprises of 442 spacious suites with panoramic skyline views, making it ideal for long stays or family getaways.
Grand Mercure Shanghai Hongqiao. 369 Xianxia Lu, near Furongjiang Lu. Tel: 5153 3300. Web: www.grandmercurehongqiao.com
Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao
This hotel is, once again, conveniently located in Minghang district, very close to shopping malls, entertainment facilities and business facilities, including the Shanghai World Trade Center. You can also take a stroll to the Jade Buddha Temple or along the Bund waterfront in your downtime. The entrance to the hotel is extremely grand and this atmosphere is continued throughout the modern hotel. Enjoy brunch at Essence, an all-day dining restaurant, or sample authentic Cantonese food at Yue Xuan
Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao. 1116 Hongsong Dong Lu, near Hongxu Lu. Tel: 3323 6666. Web: www.shanghaihongqiao.hilton.com
Hyatt On The Bund
Hyatt On The Bund is renowned amongst most expats as hosting “the bar with a great view and the hot tub”, however the hotel has many more strings to its bow than just VUE Bar. This luxury destination, located in the Northern Bund area on the banks of the Huangpu River, also hosts a fabulous Sunday brunch at VUE Restaurant, with breathtaking views of the Bund, as well as an excellent Chinese restaurant, Xindalu complete with oven specifically for roasting some of the Best Beijing Roast Duck in the city.
Hyatt On The Bund. 199 Huangpu Lu, near Wuchang Lu. Tel: Phone 6393 1234. Web: www.shanghai.bund.hyatt.com
InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin
The InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin is a newcomer to the city this year however the iconic and historic grounds that the hotel is set hold a wealth of history. Take a relaxing tour of their gardens during your stay and visit significant historical sites such as an ancient well which used to service the majority of Shanghai and the building in which Chiang Kai-shek proposed to his wife. This hotel will let you escape the hustle and bustle of modern day Shanghai.
InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin. 118 Ruijin Er Lu, near Fuxing Zhong Lu. Tel: 6472 5222. Web: www.ihg.com/intercontinental
Jing An Shangri-La
Another new entrant to the Shanghai hotel scene, Jing An Shangri-La, is situated in the center of the city next to the 450,000 square-meter Jing An Kerry Center. The space integrates a luxurious hotel with retail and office space right next to one of the city’s main veins, Yanan Lu. The new hotel has a full complement of food and beverage outlets along with an exclusive Horizon Club Lounge and Clubrooms
Jing An Shangri-La. 1218 Yan'an Zhong Lu, near Tongren Lu. Tel: 2203 8889. Web: www.jinganshangdining.com
Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel
Designed by Arata Isozaki, this beautiful looking hotel shines like a beacon in the Jinqiao area and was inspired by a piece of Jade. The stylish Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel takes up a wing of the Himalayas Center and offers easy access to shopping malls and Huamu metro line. The hotel offers guests five bars and restaurants. Expect excellent and attentive service.
Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel. Himalayas Center, 1108 Meihua Lu, near Fangdian Lu. Tel: 3858 0888. Web: www.jumeirah.com
JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai
Located at Tomorrow square and seconds away from People’s Square, this luxury hotel is situated in one of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks. Perfect for business or pleasure, the JW Marriott rises 60 stories above downtown Puxi within easy reach of the city’s tourist attractions as well as the main business center. Make sure you take a dip in the jaw dropping outdoor pool for fantastic views and a comfortable reclining area.
JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai. 399 Nanjing Xi Lu, near Huangpi Bei Lu. Tel: 5359 4969. Web: www.jwmarriottshanghai.com
Kerry Hotel Pudong
This family friendly hotel has built up a strong following from the local community in Pudong. Located by the Kerry Parkside shopping mall and office tower, next door to the New International Expo Center and minutes away from Huamu metro station and the maglev station, Kerry Hotel sits apart from its competitors. With great facilities, including a large sports and recreational area as well as stellar food and beverage options and an in-house microbrewery, it is easy to see why they say, “At Kerry life is fun!”
Kerry Hotel Pudong. 1388 Huamu Lu, near Fangdian Lu. Tel: 6169 8888. Web: www.shangri-la.com
Le Méridien Sheshan
Another hotspot for families with young children, this hotel is located right next door to Maya Water Park and Happy Valley. Or if you are looking for something a bit more relaxed, you could rent a bicycle and take a tour of the Shanghai Sculpture Park. The hotel is situated on an expansive green lawn and boasts its own wedding chapel in the grounds. Indoor and outdoor pools are available as well as many kid- friendly activities. Go here for Sunday brunch and stay behind afterwards for the pool.
Le Meridien Sheshan. 1288 Linyin Xin Lu, near Shenzhuanjiasong Lu. Tel: 5779 9999. Web: www.lemeridien.com
Le Royal Méridien Shanghai
Located in the heart of Shanghai at Nanjing Road on the 44th floor and above, this landmark hotel offers great views of the city as well as being only a stone’s throw away from People’s Square and the Bund. Ideal for business travellers and tourists alike, come here for first class service in the center of town. There is a choice of four restaurants and two bars so make sure you have the time to while away some enjoyable hours over food and drink.
Le Royal Méridien Shanghai. 789 Nanjing Dong Lu, near Xizang Zhong Lu. Tel: 3318 9999. Web: www.starwoodhotels.com
Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai
This ultra modern and chic new hotel in the Luijiazui area feels miles away from the fast pace of the financial center despite being conveniently located next to the epicenter. This urban resort allows its guests to escape and relax after a busy day and offers a fantastic array of restaurants, a bar and a coffee shop. The Spa and Wellness facilities are also a showstopper and offers guests more than possibly imaginable. Forget you are in a booming metropolis in this tranquil retreat.
Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai. 111 Pudong Nan Lu, near Yincheng Lu. Tel: 2082 9888. Web: www.mandarinoriental.com
New World Shanghai Hotel
The New World Shanghai Hotel is an unpretentious and convenient hotel located next to Zhongshan Park with a recently revamped Club Lounge. Boasting an outdoor pool and enjoyable food and beverage facilities, guests are able to come for Sunday brunch and stay for the pool; perfect for the summer months. Make sure to also pop in during the winter to You Bar for single malt whiskey, cigars and an open fire. Perfect!
New World Shanghai Hotel. 1555 Dingxi Lu, near Changning Lu. Tel: 6240 8888. Web: www.newworldmayfair.com
Park Hyatt Shanghai
Commanding the 79th to 93rd floors of the Shanghai World Financial Center, it is easy to see the appeal of the luxuriousness of this hotel. Chic sophistication exudes upon entrance and the ultra modern design theme is carried on throughout the hotel. Swim in the highest pool in Mainland China or have dinner and drinks at one of the restaurants or bars during your stay. Being one of the highest hotels in the world, whatever you decided to do, the view and service will be breathtaking.
Park Hyatt Shanghai. Shanghai World Financial Center, 79-93/F, 100 Century. Tel: 6888 1234. Web: www.shanghai.park.hyatt.com
Pudong Shangri-La
This luxury hotel will leave you not wanting to face the outdoor world after an indulgent stay. The hotel offers its guests everything they could possible desire from French food to Chinese or Japanese as well as an expansive drink selection and beautiful spa. The hotel is filled with eclectic art pieces and also boasts its own in-house gallery. The recent opening of the Grand Tower, the exclusive hotel- within-a-hotel, gives you the perfect excuse to book a stay.
Pudong Shangri-La. 33 Fucheng Lu, near Yincheng Dong Lu. Tel: 6882 8888. Web: www.shangri-la.com
Regal International East Asia
This classic hotel on Hengshan Road is set beside the Shanghai International Tennis Center; David Beckham even ducked in recently to check the place out. Set in the popular area of Xuihui with an eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants and shops nearby, it is a popular spot for tourists trying to get a real feel for the city. The hotel offers great sports facilities including squash courts, indoor swimming pool and virtual golf. Put some time aside to explore this gem in the Puxi area.
Regal International East Asia. 516 Hengshan Lu, near Wuxing Lu. Tel: 6415 5588. Web: www.Regal-EastAsia.com
Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong
The Ritz-Carlton oozes class and sophistication and owns a great view of the Bund and dizzying towers of Pudong. Make sure you book a seat or a room with a view, as it will knock your socks off. Go for afternoon tea, dinner or drinks at one of the many food and beverage outlets including the lovingly regenerated Italian restaurant Scena or the extravagant outdoor Flair Bar located on the 58th floor. Just don’t look down!
Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong. 8 Shiji Da Dao, near Lujiazui Huan Lu. Tel: 2020 1888. Web: www.ritzcarlton.com
Shanghai Marriott Pudong East
The Shanghai Marriott Pudong East is ideally located in the Jinqiao area of Pudong and within a 15 minute drive off Luijiazui. The hotel boasts a full complement of food beverage outlets including a fantastic Italian restaurant, Casalingo and a top brunch at Pudong City Bistro along with Man Ho Chinese restaurant. The hotel also contains a 655 sqm Grand Ballroom and state of the art event space.
Shanghai Marriot Pudong East, 15 Xinjinqiao Rd. Tel: +86 21 6036 8888. Web: www.marriott.com
Sofitel Shanghai Sheshan Oriental
During the summer months, this is the perfect place to stay to soak up the summer rays and chill out in the pool. Classic Mediterranean styles fuse with Chinese Feng Shui throughout the hotel but the pièce de résistance of this French hospitality hotspot is the 440 sqm outdoor, and beautifully sculpted, swimming pool complete with plunge pools, slides, water pistols and a manmade beach.
Sofitel Shanghai Sheshan Oriental. 3388 Sichen Lu, Sijing Town, Songjiang District. Tel: 3761 8888. Web: www.sofitel.com
Swissotel Grand Shanghai
This hotel is conveniently tucked away behind Jing An temple and right next door to City Plaza. Swissotel has a modern, contemporary and spacious feel with a large atrium upon entrance. With large conference and meeting rooms, it is perfect for business travellers. The Executive Club also provides business travellers and the likes with added exclusivity whilst conducting their stay in Shanghai.
Swissotel Grand Shanghai. 1 Yuyuan Lu, near Changde Lu. Tel: 5355 9898. Web: www.shanghai.swissotel.com
The Langham
This interestingly designed hotel hosts one of Shanghai’s most sought after afternoon teas. Looking down towards Xintiandi, afternoon tea here offers the opportunity to see and be seen, whilst sampling the London inspired treats. The painstaking attention to the detailed design of the hotel is noticeable in everything from the grand doors and entranceway to the intricate pink detailing on name cards and stationary. The Langham’s Chuan Spa is also a very worthy destination for those looking for high-class indulging.
The Langham. 99 Madang Lu, near Taicang Lu. Tel: 2330 2288. Web: www.xintiandi.langhamhotels.com
The Peninsula Shanghai
This art deco hotel, located on the Bund, naturally boasts all the same facilities, services and views as most other hotels or food and beverage outlets along the strip. However, what sets the Peninsula apart is the understated elegance and lavishness of its environment and the service provided. Take afternoon tea in the Lobby, tantalizing Chinese fare at Yi Long Court or brunch and drinks at Sir Elly’s Terrace to find out for yourself. The exclusive Peninsula Spa should also be on your list.
The Peninsula Shanghai. 32 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, near Beijing Dong Lu. Tel: 2327 2888. Web: www.peninsula.com
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai On The Bund
This heritage hotel, synonymous with class and high-end luxury, brims with history; some memories not as glamorous as others. The Long Bar, situated on the Bund side of the hotel, once held the title of the longest bar top in the Far East, however it later became home to the first KFC in China. This bar has now been lovingly regenerated thanks to archive photos. The Waldorf Astoria Spa is another highlight of the hotel and offers luxurious pampering in plush treatment rooms and oxygen facials administered by highly trained skin therapists.
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai On The Bund. Heritage Buliding, 2 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, near Guangdong Lu. Tel: 6322 9988. Web: www.waldorfastoriashanghai.com
