jus returned from trip to Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou. The Garden View hotel is very central, within walking distance to the 2 famous gardens and shops and restaurants. Offered value for money and only a half hour train ride from Shanghai , it is better to have overnight stay in Suzhou than in Shanghai. Food in restaurant and souvenirs also cheaper.

We chose to stay at this hotel because the reviews and picture on the internet seemed appealing. However it was well above our expectations. The hotel, which is centrally located in a delightful canal area, is built in traditional Chinese architectural style. We stayed in a deluxe room which was a little above our budget but don't regret it. The room itself was aesthetically pleasing and a glass wall/window had a door opening onto a peaceful and beautiful little private garden shared by only three rooms. The hotel garden was really lovely and a young woman played relaxing music there each evening. Not many staff members spoke more than a word or two of English but the one girl who worked in reception and was particularly helpful was fairly fluent in English. The business centre was conveniently located and the hotel and provided low cost internet access. We ate in the hotel dining room only once but the good variety of food was well presented and the service excellent.