How to describe our experience here? It is actually very, very difficult. Most importantly the product description on Trip is not correct.
There are many things to love.
1. The location. It is amazing, close to the culture centre, easy walk from the west lake, fantastic restaurants just 2 mins walk away, lots of local amenities. Fabulous tea shops all around. This was my favourite location I have stayed in in Hangzhou, and I have been here 3 times already.
2. The building and the rooms. It is fun, beautifully styled and simplistic, with some nice decorations. Very atmospheric and we loved it.
However there are also things which are not so great.
1. The desk staff are probably the poorest we have had on this entire 1 month long trip. I don't believe its their entirely their fault. One issue particularly important for foreign tourists is that they speak no English. I tried my best in my basic chinese, and using wexin, but language was a barrior, which was rather frustrating. In the days before our arrival I messaged to specifically ask for a room on the ground or first floor as my other is 66 and has bad knees. We also had 2 large cases. I was told it was possible, only for us to arrive and be given a room on the top floor. I wanted to cry. They said it was because the room was bigger, but still. On arrival it became painfully obvious that the desk staff are young, with little to motivation for providing quality customer service. There was no welcome drink as advertised in the description, getting the tea experience was rather drawn out, though interesting when we finally did, and lastly when I asked for help with a car, and was told "get a taxi". Given that I have 15 years working in tourism, I can professionally say they need both more training and motivation, they also need to not be using their phones to chat and play games, and interact with clients in a more positive way.
2. The hotel is situated in Hangzhou, world famous for its tea, and yet in the room they have lipton's tea bags. Though its a small point, it could be improved upon.
3. The room house keeping is basic, changing bins, towels and water bottles. This means slippers are essential.
That said, overall this was a positive experience, and especially the breakfast Ayi and the cleaning Ayi were absolutely lovely, smiling, kind, helpful and happy. They really made the morning special. The breakfast may be simple and rustic it fits the aesthetic, and was delicious.
Would I stay here again, probably, for the location.
Vertalen