Shanghai's Hidden Gem: The QUBE Hotel Hongqiao - Unbelievable Luxury!
Shanghai's Hidden Gem: The QUBE Hotel Hongqiao - Unbelievable Luxury! (Or, My Attempt to Escape Reality and Maybe Find a Perfect Hotel)
Okay, listen up, because I just got back from a trip to Shanghai, and I need to tell you about this hotel. Seriously, I'm still dreaming about it. Forget the Bund, ditch the tourist traps (okay, maybe visit them, but ONLY after you check into…), The QUBE Hotel Hongqiao. That's the name. Write it down. Tattoo it on your forehead. I'm not even kidding.
So, I'm a bit of a hotel snob. I admit it. I'm that person who sneaks into a hotel room, eyes the bedspread with suspicion, and immediately starts poking around for dust bunnies. And let me tell you, I found nothing to complain about at the QUBE. Which, you know, is unsettling for someone like me. But in a good way.
Accessibility, Accessibility, Accessibility (and a Little Bit of My Own Clumsiness)
Let's get the boring stuff out of the way first, though it's actually not boring when it's done right. Accessibility at the QUBE? Spot on. Seriously, they've thought of everything. I'm not a wheelchair user, but I saw ramps, elevators that were smooth as silk, and everything felt… well, accessible. And not just in a "technically compliant" way, but in a “we actually care” way. They've got Facilities for disabled guests, obviously.
Okay, real talk time. This hotel is spread out, which is part of its charm. You feel like you're in a mini-city. And me? I tripped. In the lobby. Over absolutely nothing. I swear! But the staff? They were mortified. (And I was mortified, mostly at myself.) They practically tripped over themselves (in a helpful, not a clumsy, way) to make sure I was okay, offering me a seat, a cold compress, and probably a lifetime supply of sympathy. So, bonus points for staff compassion in the wake of my own personal awkwardness.
Cleanliness and Safety: More Than Just Words
I'm a germaphobe, bordering on clinically paranoid. So, you can imagine my relief at the anti-viral cleaning products, the daily disinfection in common areas, and the fact that they have rooms sanitized between stays. (Yes, I peered into the cleaning cart to see if they were using the good stuff. They were.) They also take the whole COVID situation seriously with the physical distancing of at least 1 meter and everything is disinfected, so you do feel that you are also safe.
And speaking of safety, the 24-hour security and CCTV in common areas are reassuring without feeling like you're being watched. I appreciated the safety deposit boxes too, because, let's be honest, I hide my passport like it's the Ark of the Covenant.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Foodie Heaven (and My Personal Calorie Overload)
Alright, this is where things get really interesting. The restaurants? Multiple. The bars? Plentiful. And the food? Oh. My. God. I'm not even kidding when I say I gained five pounds in three days. I'm not sure how they managed it, but everything, and I mean everything, was delicious.
Let's start with breakfast. The Asian breakfast was amazing (dim sum, anyone?). The Western breakfast? Equally impressive (fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon). And the buffet in restaurant? A glorious, sprawling masterpiece of culinary temptation. I went for the buffet! They offer Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, Alternative meal arrangement, A la carte in restaurant, Buffet in restaurant. I am always ready for the Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Salad in restaurant, Soup in restaurant.
But beyond breakfast, the QUBE is a foodie paradise. The restaurants offer everything from authentic Asian cuisine to a fantastic take on International cuisine, so whether I wanted something familiar or a trip for my taste buds, I got it. The Poolside bar was the perfect spot for a sunset cocktail, and the Happy hour was, well, very happy. They even have a Vegetarian restaurant. They also have a Snack bar.
And the fact that you can get room service [24-hour], Breakfast in room, is a real danger zone for a person like me who enjoys a good lie-in. I blame (and thank) the QUBE.
Ways to Relax: Spa, Pool, and Pure Bliss
This is where the QUBE really shines. The spa/sauna, Spa, Steamroom, and Swimming pool are a must-do. So I decided to go spa… the Body scrub and Body wrap. It was pure, unadulterated, "I-don't-want-to-leave" bliss. The massage was out of this world. I swear, my muscles haven't been that relaxed since… well, ever.
And the Pool with view? Stunning. The Swimming pool [outdoor] is perfect for, of course, escaping the heat, or just floating around and contemplating the meaning of life (or, in my case, whether to order another cocktail).
The Fitness center, is well-equipped. They also have a Foot bath, If you are the type that love the Gym/fitness. All that is really great.
Services and Conveniences: They Think of Everything
This is where the QUBE went from "great hotel" to "mind-blowingly awesome." From the airport transfer service (which was seamless and efficient) to the concierge who could get me tickets to anything, the QUBE anticipates your needs before you even realize you have needs.
The Wi-Fi [free] was blazing fast (essential for Instagramming all that food). Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! The Daily housekeeping was impeccable, and the room service was super convenient! I loved the Cash withdrawal for shopping or for more dinner! Also they have Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking.
They even have a convenience store onsite. Seriously, you could live at the QUBE and never need to leave. (And trust me, I considered it.)
Rooms: My Private Oasis of Comfort
Okay, let's talk about the rooms. Non-smoking rooms? Check. Sound proof rooms? Double-check. Air conditioning? Of course. But it's the little things that make the QUBE rooms so special: the Bathtub, bathtub, Separate shower/bathtub, plush Bathrobes and Slippers. The Hair dryer and Ironing facilities, the super-comfortable Extra long bed. I slept like a rock.
And the details? They're perfect. From the Complimentary tea and Free bottled water, to the Mini bar. The closet was huge. The Wake-up service actually worked. My room had a Window that opens! So many aspects.
For The Kids (and the Parents):
Even though I didn't have kids with me, I noticed the Kids meal, Kids facilities and the Babysitting service. It is all very well thought out.
Getting Around (and Avoiding Shanghai's Traffic)
Airport transfer is a must. The hotel is a bit outside of the city center, which means you might be using Taxi service, Valet parking, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site]. But, trust me, the tranquility is worth it.
My Honest Take (and the Little Quirks That Make This Hotel Perfect)
Okay, so the lighting in the bathroom could have been a smidge brighter. (I'm being picky, I know.) And there was a slight delay with the laundry service, but honestly, that's all the bad I could find.
What made the QUBE truly special? The staff. Every single person was friendly, helpful, and genuinely seemed to care about making my stay perfect. Their genuine warmth and professionalism were simply amazing.
My Emotional Verdict: AHHHHH! (And a Call to Action)
Listen, I travel a lot. I've stayed in everything from dingy hostels to five-star palaces. And the QUBE Hotel Hongqiao? It's in my top three. Maybe even number one. It's a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, impeccable service, and a genuine sense of calm.
Here's the offer:
Book your stay at The QUBE Hotel Hongqiao NOW and receive:
- A complimentary upgrade to a room with a balcony (subject to availability).
- A free welcome drink upon arrival.
- A voucher for a 20% discount on a spa treatment of your choice.
- Free Wi-Fi!
- And a promise that you, too, will fall in love with this hidden gem.
**Don't wait! Head to their website
Escape to Fowey's Stunning Old Quay House Hotel: Your Dream Getaway Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's travel itinerary. This is my attempt to conquer The QUBE Hotel in Shanghai Hongqiao, and trust me, it's going to be a bumpy ride. Let's be honest, I'm expecting a disaster. It's going to be messy, glorious, and probably involve me sobbing dramatically at some point.
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Jet Lag Odyssey
14:00 (ish) Arrival at Pudong Airport (PVG). Okay, so apparently landing is supposed to be the easy part. Except my flight was delayed. OF COURSE it was. I knew I should've worn my 'I Hate Airports' t-shirt. Customs? A blur of hurried hand gestures and a TSA agent who totally judged my questionable packing choices (a half-eaten bag of gummy bears? Don't judge!). The only saving grace? The sheer relief of finally hitting solid ground.
15:30 (ish) Taxi to The QUBE Hotel. Uber or Didi? Nah, I'm going old school – taxi! Wish me luck navigating the Shanghai traffic chaos! Fingers crossed the driver speaks some English (or at least understands ‘The QUBE Hotel, Hongqiao’ muttered frantically). I anticipate a high score on the 'anxiety meter' on this ride.
16:30 (ish) Check-in, settle, and the Jet Lag Apocalypse. Oh boy, the hotel. The QUBE. Fingers crossed the room is nice, but honestly, at this point, I'll settle for a bed that doesn’t have questionable stains. I’m probably gonna need at least three naps before dinner. I'm already feeling the jet lag creep in, and I swear my brain is sloshing around like a poorly mixed cocktail. Important Side Note: Find the Wi-Fi password ASAP. Social media is a lifeline and my connection to the real world.
19:00 (ish) Dinner – Food Court Fiasco? I don't know where I am going to eat. Maybe the hotel has a restaurant? Perhaps a food court nearby? The biggest problem is the inevitable language barrier at this point. I'm going to need help with translating. I'm definitely going to order something I don't recognise. Pray for me. Probably end up eating cold noodles with something I can't pronounce. Probably will love it.
20:00 (ish) Crash & Burn. Sleep is the only option, isn't it? Pray that the bed is not too soft! That or I could spend the whole night awake.
Day 2: The Shanghai Shuffle and Endless Tea
08:00 (ish) Wakey Wakey, Eggs and…? Let's face it, I'll probably be up at 3:00 AM, staring at the ceiling. But, if I'm lucky, I'll rouse myself by eight. The hotel buffet better have coffee. Good coffee. Breakfast is key to avoiding the dreaded morning hangries.
09:00 (ish) Exploring: Let's hope the hotel staff can point me in the direction of something. The goal is to get to a tea room.
11:00 (ish) The Tea Emporium Adventure. Right, tea time! My mission: track down a traditional tea shop. I want the whole experience – the tiny cups, the delicate ceremonies, the feeling of being completely out of my element (in a good way). I imagine a lot of pointing and miming, but hey, that's half the fun, right? I want to talk to someone and listen to their story.
13:00 (ish) Lunch - Street Food Survival. So, here's the thing: every street food vendor looks amazing, but which one won't lead to a week-long intestinal battle? This is a serious dilemma. Going to need some serious gut fortitude and maybe a stash of Imodium.
14:00 (ish) Back to the Hotel. A little refresh and downtime. Maybe a nap if the jet lag is pulling me down. Hopefully the hotel has some good amenities. I think I saw a gym… maybe.
16:00 (ish) - The Bund Sunset Stroll. Okay, it's touristy. I don't even care. I want to see the iconic Shanghai skyline. Hopefully, the weather cooperates, and the crowds aren't too insane. I want to take a moment to appreciate the beauty, even if it's fleeting, before getting jostled by a thousand selfie sticks. This city is going to be so different that what I'm used to.
19:00 (ish) Dinner - Fancy or Fail? Tonight, I'm considering trying something a bit more upscale. Found a highly-rated restaurant and hopefully it is open. I don't want to end up in a McDonald's again.
21:00 (ish) Hotel Hangout or Early Night. Depending on my energy levels, it's either a quiet night in or some late-night bar-hopping.
Day 3: The Zen Moment & the Great Departure
09:00 (ish) - The Serene Garden. This is where I want to go. Hopefully, the taxi has a way to get me there. I hope I can simply find tranquility in this city.
12:00 (ish) - Last Meal, Last Memories. I'll try to avoid the jet lag. I'll be sad to go!
14:00 (ish) - Taxi to PVG
16:00 (ish) - Flight?
The Unforeseen (Because Life):
Lost in Translation Scenarios. Prepare for the inevitable. I'm going to mispronounce everything, accidentally offend someone, and possibly order something truly bizarre. I will try my best, but it will be a train wreck.
Emotional Breakdown (Probably). I’m a sentimental sap. Add the travel stress, and you've got a recipe for tears. I might cry looking at a particularly beautiful view, or because I miss my dog or just because I'm tired. Don't judge.
The Unexpected Culinary Delights. I'm hoping to discover some hidden food gems. This could also be a disaster.
The Beauty of Imperfection.. I want to embrace it all. Let the messy, the beautiful, the absurd, and the downright hilarious.
QUBE Hotel Hongqiao: The Shanghai Secret They *Don't* Want You to Know About (Except, Well, Now They Do!)
Okay, Spill. What *IS* the QUBE Hongqiao, and Why Should I Care?!
Alright, alright, settle down, eager traveler! The QUBE Hongqiao? Picture this: you land, you're *battered* from the flight (seriously, those economy seats are a crime against humanity!), and you just want... something. Not just a room, but an *experience.* That's the QUBE. We're talking seriously plush. Modern. Stylish. Think sleek lines, gigantic windows that practically *beg* you to stare out at the Shanghai skyline (and let's be honest, you *will*). It's the kind of place where you can actually *breathe* after a day of dodging scooters and navigating the metro. I mean, I actually *gasped* when I walked in. And I'm not easily impressed!
It's a bit off the beaten track—which is part of the magic, honestly. You're NOT in the tourist throngs. It’s like a secret society. You can actually get a decent night's sleep! Believe me, that's a luxury in Shanghai.
Is it REALLY Luxury Though? Because I've Heard That Word Thrown Around...
Look, I'm not a fan of buzzwords. But this? This is legit luxury. Okay, maybe not 'Rolls Royce' luxury, but definitely 'Mercedes-Benz' luxury with a *hint* of 'private jet' if you know what I mean. Think: a bed you could happily get lost in for a week. Seriously, I almost considered it. The sheets? Heavenly. The rain shower? Forget about it! It's like being bathed in a waterfall of pure, unadulterated blissful water. And the robes… oh, the robes. I may or may not have smuggled one home. (Don't tell them!)
But it's the little things that get you. The welcome drink (they make a *mean* mojito, trust me). The staff who actually seem to enjoy their jobs. The little chocolates on your pillow. The fact that the Wi-Fi actually *works* (a miracle!). Yes, it's luxury. It's a well-deserved treat.
Location, Location, Location! How Annoying is the Hongqiao Area REALLY?
Okay, honest moment: Hongqiao can *seem* a bit… corporate. Airport-y. But hear me out! Yes, it's close to the airport (major plus after a long flight!). Yes, there are a lot of business travelers. But! It's also incredibly convenient. You're a hop, skip, and a jump from the metro, which means you're connected to EVERYTHING. Plus, because it's a little removed, it's *quieter*, which, after battling the Shanghai crowds all day, is like a godsend. And if you need a taxi, they're plentiful. I once spent 20 minutes trying to hail a cab in the Bund. NEVER AGAIN. Here? Piece of cake.
Plus, there are some surprisingly good restaurants and shops nearby. Don't just assume it's all office buildings! Do some exploring. You might be surprised.
The Food! Is it Worth Eating At The Hotel? Or Should I Brave the City?
Oh, the food. This is where the QUBE REALLY shines. I’m a bit of a glutton, I confess. And the hotel restaurant? Delicious. Absolutely delicious. They have this amazing dim sum brunch on weekends… *swoon*. The crispy duck! My god, the crispy duck. The pancakes are to die for. I may have... overindulged. Don't judge me! Breakfast is also an event. They have everything. EVERYTHING. Fresh fruit, pastries, noodles... honestly, it's worth booking the hotel just for the breakfast experience.
But, you know, explore the city too! Don't miss out on the Shanghai street food scene. Just be prepared to hunt for some hidden gems. And maybe bring some antacids. Just in Case.
Is There a Gym? Because I Need to Work Off All That Breakfast!
Yes! There’s a gym! And it's actually decent. I mean, I *tried* to use it. Okay, I *looked* at it. The equipment seemed modern. Clean. Plenty of treadmills and weights. I, however, was mostly preoccupied with recovering from the aforementioned dim sum. But hey, it's an option! And if you're actually good at exercising, you'll be thrilled. If you’re like me, you might just admire it from afar and hit the spa…
Which brings me to the spa. They have one! But I can't actually bring myself to review it because I fell so deeply into a blissful nap during my massage that I don't remember anything. So, you know, take that as a recommendation.
Alright, Be Honest. What are the Downsides? Tell me the TRUTH!
Okay, okay, let's be real for a second. Nothing's perfect. The pool area, while nice, isn’t gigantic. It’s not a sprawling resort-style pool, it's more of a “refreshing dip” kind of pool. And the price? It's not budget travel. This isn't a hostel. You're paying for quality, and sometimes quality comes at a price. But, honestly, if you're looking for a treat, it's worth it.
Also, my room service experience… let's just say there was a slight language barrier when I tried to order extra soy sauce. (I'm a soy sauce fiend, don't judge!). But hey, it's part of the adventure, right? And the staff was more than willing to try and understand my desperate pleas for… well, soy sauce. All in all, small potatoes.
The Room! Tell me about the ROOM!
Okay, the ROOM. This is where the QUBE *really* got me. Listen, hotel rooms are usually a necessary evil. A place to crash. A place to dump your bags. Not here. This was a *sanctuary*. First off, the space! Plenty of room to move around, to… you know, *breathe*. The design is slick, modern, all clean lines and calming colors. It felt incredibly relaxing. I’m usually a bit of a mess, but I somehow managed to not clutter the room. It just *invited* order.
And the bed! Seriously, the bed. Cloud-like, perfectly firm, I just sank into it. I’m not even kidding, I could have happily stayed there for days. I actually *considered* cancelling my flight. Don't tell anyone, but I may have spent an entire afternoon just watching Netflix and ordering room service. Totally worth it. The view was also pretty spectacular, looking out over the city. Just… *chef's kiss*.
Okay, slight imperfection alert. I'm a bit of a techCozy Stay Spots
