Chongqing's BEST Hotel? Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao Review!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the… well, let's call it a vibe check on the Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao in Chongqing. Forget those boring travel brochures – this is the real deal, a messy, honest, and hopefully helpful look at whether this place is worth your precious travel dollars (and sanity).
Chongqing Calling: Is the Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao Your Answer? (SEO-tastic title, by the way)
First things first: Chongqing. This city is intense. Think spicy food, mountains hugging skyscrapers, and a humidity level that rivals a tropical rainforest. So, you need a hotel that can be your oasis. Let's see if the Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao delivers.
Accessibility - The Good, The Bad, and the Elevator (Accessibility)
Okay, I'm not wheelchair-bound, but I did pay attention. Elevators? Check. Seemingly accessible rooms? Check. The lobby? Flat and uncluttered. But honestly, I’m always wary. It looks accessible, but sometimes the devil’s in the details. I’d highly recommend contacting the hotel directly if you have specific accessibility needs. Don't assume – ask! (This is a general travel tip, btw – don't assume anything.)
Rooms: A Sanctuary (Mostly) in the Chongqing Chaos (Available in all rooms)
Alright, let's get into the real nitty-gritty. This is what you really want to know, right?
- Air Conditioning: Thank. The. Heavens. Necessary. In Chongqing.
- Bed: Comfy enough! Not luxury comfy, but definitely not back-breaking. Solid enough. I slept. That's the important part.
- Blackout Curtains: Yes! Essential for combating jet lag and the city's ever-present glow.
- Free Wi-Fi: Hallelujah! And it actually worked. (See: Internet access and Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!) Speeds were decent, too. Streamed my Netflix without too much buffering.
- Bathroom: Clean, functional. Showers were hot, which is a win in my book.
- Extra Touches: A coffee/tea maker, a mini-fridge (handy for water – essential), and a tiny desk.
My Room, My Sanctuary:
- Anecdote: Okay, so I'm a bit of a germophobe. I always wipe down surfaces when I get to a hotel. And I'm going to give credit where it's due: the room felt clean. No obvious dust bunnies or questionable stains. That's a HUGE win. The Daily housekeeping was consistent, too.
- Quirk: One little minor disappointment: You could slightly hear the traffic which I'm guessing is usual for a city. I suggest earplugs for a quieter night.
- Emotional Reaction: Overall: Pretty darn good. It was exactly what I needed after a brutal flight over.
Cleanliness and Safety: Doing Better than Average (and That's a Plus!)
- Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol: They were definitely taking it seriously. I observed staff cleaning constantly, and the dining setup (covered later) felt secure.
- Anecdote: I saw staff mopping hallways and disinfecting elevators multiple times a day, so I felt pretty safe.
- Quirk: I'm always skeptical about these things, but they made a serious effort.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Breakfast Bonanza! (And Some Other Stuff)
- Breakfast [buffet], Asian breakfast, Western breakfast: Breakfast was included and, to be honest, good.
- Anecdote: The breakfast buffet in the morning was actually alright. All the familiar classics like eggs, sausage, and all that stuff. They had toast, fruit, coffee, and even some Asian options for trying something new. The staff were on top of keeping everything clean and refilled, too.
- Quirk: The Coffee could have been a little bit stronger, but otherwise, all good!
- Emotional Reaction: Definitely a positive. Starting the day with a full stomach and without paying extra is a win.
- Other options, like coffee shop and snack bar, are available: I don't know if I was there at the right time but all of these were shut.
Services and Conveniences: The Usual Suspects… and More?
- Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Safety deposit boxes: You know, the usual.
- Anecdote: The Concierge was helpful. Needed help with getting a taxi and some info, and they were quick and efficient.
- Quirk: The Ironing service was useful. Pressed my crumpled clothes for a good price.
- Emotional Reaction: Solid. Nothing groundbreaking, but everything I needed was there.
Things to Do/Ways to Relax (or Not Really)
- Fitness center, Gym/fitness: Okay, I peered into the gym. It looked… functional. Probably good for a quick workout.
- Spa, Sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool: This one wasn't available, so can't comment.
- Anecdote: No time to explore the spa, so can’t really comment.
- Quirk: Definitely not a "resort" experience.
Getting Around: So Easy!
- Airport transfer, Car park [free of charge], Taxi service: Easy access, taxi right outside and super inexpensive. It's what I needed at the end of the day.
- Anecdote: Airport transfer was a breeze, so that's always a win!
- Emotional Reaction: Stress-free. The best.
Internet, Internet [LAN], Internet services, Wi-Fi in public areas, Wi-Fi for special events
- This one is essential to me, and yes, it was perfect. Wifi worked in public areas. Excellent.
For the Kids
- None that I could see.
The Verdict (Finally!)
Is the Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao the "BEST" hotel in Chongqing? Probably not the best if you're after a luxury experience. But is it a solid, reliable, and convenient option? Absolutely. It's clean, the staff are helpful, the location is good (close to the metro), and the included breakfast is a lifesaver.
My final rating: 4 out of 5 stars. Great value for money, and perfect for a business trip or a solo traveler in Chongqing.
The "Book Now!" Persuasion (Because You Deserve It)
Feeling overwhelmed by Chongqing? (I get it!)
Need a clean, comfortable bolt-hole to recharge? (Yep, you do!)
Ready for a stress-free stay that won't break the bank?
Then book the Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao NOW!
Here's what you get:
- Clean, well-appointed rooms that are your personal oasis.
- Free Wi-Fi to stay connected (and brag about your trip on social media).
- A free breakfast buffet to fuel your adventures (and maybe grab an extra croissant).
- Convenient location for easy access to attractions and transportation. (And the metro is your friend in Chongqing – trust me).
- Friendly staff who are there to help (even when you can't find your way out of a noodle shop).
Don't wait! Chongqing is calling, and the Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao is waiting to welcome you. Book now and start planning your adventure!
Ayutthaya's Sala Bang Pa-In: Thailand's Hidden Royal Paradise Revealed!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to embark on a Chongqing adventure, fueled by questionable street food and the sheer, unadulterated joy of being, well, here. My temporary base of operations? The Holiday Inn Express Chongqing Guanyinqiao By IHG. Don't get me wrong, it's clean and all that jazz, but let's be real, the real adventure starts outside those bland, beige walls.
(Day 1: Arrival & Sensory Overload AKA "Where Did I Leave My Brain?")
- 14:00 - 15:00: Check-in at the hotel. Okay, the lobby is… well, a lobby. Beige. Expected. The woman at the front desk has a face that could launch a thousand ships (or at least sell me a toothbrush). The language barrier is real, people. I swear I said "wifi password," and she just stared back. Finally, Success! WiFi secured, sanity… still pending.
- 15:00 - 16:00: The Great Room Search. Finding my room. It took me three tries because I, for some reason, thought the elevators were a suggestion, not a necessity. Finally, I'm in! The room is… a room. Clean, small, the usual suspects. This is good, more space for my suitcase than some cramped hotels have.
- 16:00-17:00: Breathe, then emerge! The plan was to hit Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street, a recommendation. After a quick shower and changed my clothes, I headed out. But first, I tried to order a coffee from the vending machine in the hallway. It sounded simple. It wasn't. I inserted the bill, selected "coffee," and… nothing. Just a sad, empty hum. My caffeine withdrawal was already starting.
- 17:00-19:00: Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street - So. Many. People. It's like a human river, and I'm a hapless little twig floating down it. The shops are a glorious assault on the senses. Neon signs flash, music blares, and the air is thick with delicious, unidentifiable smells. I stumbled on a food stall selling some kind of deep-fried… thing. It was a greasy, spicy, and absolutely phenomenal. I don't even want to know what was in it. Ignorance is bliss, and my stomach is rejoicing.
- 19:00 - 20:00: Dinner at a local restaurant. I winged it, using a translation app and pointing furiously. I accidentally ordered something with chicken feet. (Yes, actual chicken feet. Little clawed, bony things. They tasted okay). The locals were amused by my reaction, which was probably a combination of horror and fascination. They kept trying to offer me more!
- 20:00 - 21:00: Strolled the streets while watching the people. I took a break to sit on a bench and watch the world pass by. The people-watching is serious business. The fashion is… eclectic. A girl walked past in a sequined cat-ear headband and a full-length fur coat. I'm already in love with this city.
- 21:00: Back to the hotel. Exhausted. Overwhelmed. Happy. Did I mention the chicken feet? My stomach might be protesting at this moment.
(Day 2: Hot Pot Hell and Temple Tranquility)
- 08:00 - 09:00: Breakfast at the hotel. The breakfast buffet is included at this Holiday Inn Express. I was hopeful, and frankly, underwhelmed. It's… functional. The coffee is slightly better than the vending machine sludge. I filled up on noodles and a weird, vaguely sweet bread. It wasn't terrible, but I think I'm still craving that deep-fried thing from yesterday.
- 09:00 - 12:00: The Ciqikou Ancient Town. OMG. Ciqikou is a visual feast. Cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, red lanterns hanging everywhere, and the tantalizing aroma of Sichuan peppercorns. I got completely lost in the maze-like alleys. Found an absolutely amazing tea shop where the tea master, with the most serene face I've ever seen, showed me an elaborate tea ceremony. I felt incredibly relaxed after.
- 12:00 - 14:00: Hot Pot. Chongqing is famous for it, and I had to partake. I chose a place near Ciqikou that was packed with locals, always a good sign. I'm still trying to figure out what exactly everyone was putting into that boiling cauldron of deliciousness. This time, thankfully, no chicken feet! But it was spicy, fiery, and my mouth is still tingling hours later.
- 14:00 - 16:00: Visiting the Eling Park. After Hot Pot, I needed to cool down. The views from Eling Park are breathtaking. The Yangtze and Jialing rivers meet here, and you get a panoramic view of the city. It's a great place to just sit for a while, digest, and take a deep breath.
- 16:00 - 17:00: Shopping. The Guanyinqiao area is great for shopping. Found a few souveniers for friends and family.
- 17:00 - 19:00: Relaxing at the hotel, and planning out my next move.
- 19:00 - 20:00: Dinner. I decided to be adventurous again, but a little less extreme. Found a local restaurant nearby. The food was delicious and I made friends with the waiter.
- 20:00: Sleep.
(Day 3: Rivers, Reflections, and Regrets (Maybe?)
- 08:00 - 09:00: Breakfast. Another breakfast buffet attempt. Still… functional. Decided to try the "congee" this time. Rice porridge. Not terrible. Still miss that deep-fried thing.
- 09:00 - 11:00: Yangtze River Cruise. Okay, this was… well, a boat. The views were impressive, especially of the bridges, and the sheer scale of the city from the water is unbelievable. However, the boat was crammed with people taking photos, and the soundtrack of cheesy pop music was less than ideal. The river is beautiful, though.
- 11:00 - 12:00: Found a shop to get some postcards and send them, not sure if they will arrive, but still.
- 12:00 - 13:00: Lunch. I caved. Went back to Guanyinqiao for the deep-fried thing. Okay, I’m obsessed. I’m not sure why I'm still alive to be honest.
- 13:00 - 15:00: Chilling at the hotel to charge my phone while planning for the next adventure.
- 15:00 - 16:00: Shopping again and then going back to my room for some rest.
- 19:00: Dinner. Tried a new restaurant. The menu was entirely in Chinese and a few english words. I ordered a dish and waited to see what would happen. It tasted good, however.
(Day 4: Just… Goodbye?)
- 07:00 - 08:00: Last breakfast. Sigh. Ate what I could, packed my bags, and checked out.
- 08:00 - 09:00: Went to the airport.
- 09:00: Goodbye Chongqing! Thank you for the chaotic beauty!
Postscript: Did I mention my stomach might be protesting? Also, I need to learn some basic Mandarin. Like, "Where is the bathroom?" and "MORE deep-fried things, please." But overall? Chongqing, you were a glorious mess, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I'll be back. Maybe next time, I'll try the chicken feet. Or not.
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Chongqing's Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao – The Truth, My Truth! (Because Let's Be Real, Reviews are a MESS)
Okay, spill! Is this Holiday Inn Express REALLY "Express"? Do you feel rushed or is it actually efficient?
Hoo boy. "Express." You see that word and you *expect* lightning speed, right? Like, check-in smoother than a buttered eel, luggage magically appearing in your room... Nope. Not quite. It’s *efficient*, sure. They get you in eventually. But remember that one time I was STARVING after a twelve-hour flight? The check-in process felt like watching paint dry. The staff were lovely, don't get me wrong – super polite, trying their best, but the actual system? A little slow, a little...clunky. It's not *rushed*, more like *deliberate*. Like they’re making sure *every* detail is perfect... except maybe for the speed. Okay, maybe I was just hangry.
Let's talk location. Is Guanyinqiao the place to be in Chongqing? Walk me through the area.
Guanyinqiao…oh, Guanyinqiao. Picture this: lights, crowds, street food smells that could make a saint sin. It's a *vibrant* area! Tons of shopping. Everything is there. I mean, everything! Think of the loudest, most colorful, most energetic shopping mall you can imagine, then multiply that by, like, a hundred. And spread it all outside. Seriously, I got totally lost the first time. Found myself staring open-mouthed at these massive LED screens showing absolutely everything. Seriously, I spent a good hour just wandering around, dodging scooters and trying not to get swept away by a group of synchronized dancers. It’s a sensory overload, in the best way. And a *perfect* spot for a hotel. Because you can escape the chaos when you need to. You *will* need to, trust me.
The rooms! Are they as "express" as the hotel name implies? (Small? Cramped?)
Okay, the rooms are... compact. They're definitely not palatial suites. Think of them as efficient little havens designed *solely* for sleeping and showering. Seriously, don't expect to do cartwheels. But they are clean! That’s a win. And… honestly? After a day battling Chongqing's heat and crowds, all you *really* need is a comfortable bed. And the bed…was comfortable. Like, *really* comfortable. I practically collapsed into it. There’s a good shower, too, with decent water pressure. This is crucial, y’all. Consider shower pressure a non-negotiable.
Breakfast! The bane of every traveler's existence. Tell me about the breakfast. Is it edible?
Alright, the breakfast. This is where things get interesting. I’m not gonna lie, it's a *buffet*. And the buffet… well, it's a buffet. There’s the usual suspects. The eggs that might or might not be rubber. The sad-looking fruit that's seen better days. The hot options that sometimes feel like they've been sitting under those warming lamps since the dawn of time. BUT! There were also some *surprisingly* good local options. I’m talking noodles. And dumplings. And these incredible little fried bread things (don’t ask me what they were called, my Mandarin is… well, let’s just say I use a lot of pointing and smiling). They were a revelation. So, edible? Yes. Delicious? Parts of it, absolutely. Pro tip: explore the local options. Skip the suspect bacon.
Let's get real: Any downsides? Any "dealbreakers"?
Okay, the big one. The noise. Guanyinqiao is *loud*. All the time. Especially on weekends. The hotel does provide earplugs, bless their hearts. But still, be prepared for a constant background hum of traffic, street vendors, and general city buzz. Seriously, if you are a light sleeper, this might be a problem. It was for me, initially. I ended up downloading a white noise app and cranking it up to eleven. The other thing? The elevator. Sometimes it took forever. And the gym? I don’t even remember seeing a gym. Don’t expect a luxury resort experience, or you'll be disappointed. This is a functional, comfortable base camp.
Transportation from the hotel, is it easy to get around Chongqing?
YES! Absolutely. This is a major plus for the Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao. The metro is *right there*. Like, practically outside the door. Chongqing has a *fantastic* metro system, clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. It makes exploring the city a breeze. Taxis are also readily available, but the metro is your friend here. Honestly, I relied on the metro for most of my trip, even though I am terrible at navigating new metro systems. The staff, again, helped when I needed it.
Would you stay there again? The bottom line, please!
Okay, the verdict. Would I stay there again? Probably. It’s not faultless, sure. The noise can be a killer. The rooms are… utilitarian. But the location is *amazing*. It's clean, comfortable enough, and the price is generally reasonable. For the budget traveler, or someone who wants to be in the *thick* of things, it's a solid choice. Just pack earplugs. And an open mind. Oh, and don't expect world-class gourmet dining, because this is about experience and practicality, not luxury, and in that regard, considering the price, It's a good choice.
Any memorable moments you had? Something that stands out?
Okay, so I'm wandering through Guanyinqiao, right? Completely lost, again. My stomach is rumbling, and I spot this little street food stall, a tiny, steaming oasis in the chaos. The smell! Incredible. I don't speak Mandarin, they don't speak English. But with a mixture of pointing, miming, and sheer desperation, I somehow managed to order a plate of these spicy little dumplings. They were *divine*. Absolutely exploding with flavor. I ate them, standing there on the sidewalk, with tears of happiness in my eyes. And the amazing thing? The vendor just kept smiling. He understood. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated, food-fueled joy. That, more than anything, is what I'll remember about the Holiday Inn Express Guanyinqiao: the access it gave me to those moments, those tiny victoriesInfinity Inns
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