Smile and Nature Hotel Ningbo

Fresh and new in 2010

I spent 2 days here in August 2010 on business.

I'd recommend the property to anyone here in Ningbo visiting the northwestern part of the city.

I don't know the specifics, but the property clearly had undergone a major renovation in the last
year or two. Everything was new and spotless. The design is dramatic and well executed. This applies to common areas - lobby, lounge, etc., as well as guest rooms.

Staff were generally helpful although 'English skills were spotty. As a frequent visitor to China I am able to manage survival Chinese so this wasn't an issue for me but might be if you have no
Chinese at all. An experienced professional guest relations manager (George) from the UK greeted me at checkin and provided his card; so I expect that help would be available if needed.

The adjoining recreation center with pool, KTV, etc., was starting renovations when I was there.
I used the pool; full 25 meter lap pool. Clean and functional, but dated; the contrast was particularly evident when compared to the brand new decor in the main building.

The buffet breakfast was average for a property of this kind; wide selection of Chinese dishes,
moderate selection of Western fare. A lobby bar is there and provides a nice environment;
however during my (mid-week) visit there was no entertainment, and the bar was quiet. Literature in the room's hotel services guide stated that they had a nightclub but this apparently was either out of date, or perhaps the nightclub had not yet opened.

One possible negative is that the location is suburban; they are immediately accessible from
a major highway, but there were no apparent shopping or eating establishments in convenient walking distance. I am sure that there would be plenty of outside opportunities if you take a cab.

Unique Quality: Outstanding decor in common areas and guest rooms.