Shanghai's Starway Hotel: Unbeatable NECC Location & Luxury You Won't Believe!
Shanghai's Starway Hotel: Unbeatable NECC Location & Luxury You Won't Believe! (And Maybe You Will, Maybe You Won't!) - A Real Review
Alright, buckle up, travel fanatics and NECC conference attendees, because I just survived (and thoroughly enjoyed!) a stay at the Shanghai Starway Hotel. And by "survived," I mean I emerged relatively unscathed, well-fed, and surprisingly relaxed. Forget those sterile, cookie-cutter hotel reviews. This is the REAL deal.
Location, Location, Location (and the Dreaded Airport Transfer):
Let's be honest, the single biggest reason to book this hotel is the unbeatable NECC location. Seriously, it's practically attached to the National Exhibition and Convention Center. For anyone dragging suitcases and marketing brochures, this is a GODSEND. I walked to a conference in my pajamas (okay, maybe I changed, but you get the idea). The airport transfer? Smooth sailing. Okay, it was a bit chaotic at first, navigating the Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVD), but the hotel's shuttle was a lifesaver and the driver spoke just enough broken English to make me feel vaguely in control. Airport transfer is definitely a plus.
Accessibility: Did I Stumble on the Hidden Gem?
Okay, folks, here's where things get interesting. I didn't personally need extensive accessibility features, but I made a point of poking around, and I was pleasantly surprised. The facilities for disabled guests were subtly integrated, which is always a good sign. Wide doorways, elevators, the works. It wasn’t just an afterthought; it looked like they’d actually thought about it. Good on you, Starway. I saw plenty of elevator access, which is critical.
Rooms: More Than Just a Bed (Thank Goodness!)
The room itself? Let's be real, I needed a haven after a day of…well, conference-ing. The room sanitization opt-out feature gave me peace of mind – a major win in the current climate. The Rooms sanitized between stays? Yep, they do that here. My room had air conditioning, thankfully, as Shanghai can get sweaty. The blackout curtains were a lifesaver. I slept like a log. And the free Wi-Fi? Actually worked. (High five, Starway!)
The soundproofing was impressive. I’m a light sleeper, and I didn't hear any late-night revelry or incessant hallway chatter. Bless. They even had slippers! (Little details, people, little details.) And you know what? That desk was actually usable, unlike those tiny, impractical ones you find in some hotels. I was able to actually work on my laptop. And the complimentary tea at the side? Genius!
Dining: Fueling the Conference Beast
The food situation was… well, let’s call it varied. The Asian breakfast was pretty solid - who doesn't love a good bowl of congee to start the day? They had an Asian cuisine in restaurant, which offered all the usual suspects (noodles, dumplings, yes please!). The buffet in restaurant was a bit… chaotic but, hey, it's a buffet. Expect slight jostling. At least the breakfast buffet was an option. I grabbed a bottle of water (free!) and a quick espresso at the coffee shop before my morning session. The vegetarian restaurant was well-prepared.
The room service [24-hour] was a lifesaver on a couple of nights when I was too exhausted to face the world. I ordered a soup. It was… adequate. But available at 2:00 AM? Absolutely appreciated. The restaurants themselves offered some variety, including the option of a la carte in restaurant.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation (Because Sanity is Priceless):
Okay, this is where the Starway really shines. Let's get real, conferences are exhausting. I made a beeline for the spa. I indulged. It was glorious! The massage was… chef's kiss. Seriously, best massage I’ve had in ages, and the foot bath after a long day of pounding the pavement? Pure heaven. My aching muscles, my tired eyes – all gone! The pool with a view? Stunning, even if I didn’t actually swim in it. I definitely took advantage of the outdoor space and relaxed with a nice drink - a definite way to unwind and relax. They also offer a sauna, steamroom, and a spa/sauna combo. I didn’t wander in, but I heard good things!
Cleanliness and Safety: Living in a Pandemic World
This is crucial. They take this seriously. The anti-viral cleaning products made me feel safe. The daily disinfection in common areas and the rooms sanitized between stays are HUGE wins. The hand sanitizer stations were plentiful, staff wear masks. They also had professional-grade sanitizing services. They even did room sanitization opt-out available for those who requested it. The Staff trained in safety protocol. Definitely appreciate the security measures. The first aid kit was reassuring but, thank goodness, I didn't need it.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
The concierge was incredibly helpful, pointing me in the right direction for a decent noodle shop. The luggage storage was appreciated when I checked out and had a flight to catch later. The laundry service was a godsend after I spilled tomato sauce on my only decent shirt. They had cash withdrawal AND currency exchange. They even offered dry cleaning. The daily housekeeping was efficient and unobtrusive. They even had a convenience store on site for those midnight snack cravings! The elevator was also fast – a big plus! The facilities for disabled guests were well-maintained. The hotel chain seems to be up to snuff. The doorman was also friendly and always greeted me with a smile - a welcoming touch!
Things to Do (Besides Attend Conferences):
Honestly, I spent most of my time at the conference. But there's a gift/souvenir shop for last-minute presents, and the hotel’s also got a fitness center. I attempted to use it once. Let's just say I spent more time admiring the equipment than actually using it. They have car park [free of charge], which is a bonus. I found out about the taxi service, but was happy to be able to walk the short distance to the venue!
For the Kids:
Didn't have them with me, but there were some kid-friendly facilities, like babysitting service and kids meal.
Getting Around:
The airport transfer was easy and convenient, and the taxi service was always available. I also saw car park [on-site].
The Quirks and the Imperfections (Because Life Isn’t Perfect):
Okay, here's the honest truth. My room was lovely… but the mirror in the bathroom was a bit fogged up sometimes. First world problem, I know. And the Wi-Fi in public areas was a bit spotty at times and the internet access – wireless in my room was fast.. But hey, no hotel is perfect. It's the little quirks that add character! The smoke detectors were in good working order - safety first!
My Opinion (Because You Asked For It!):
Would I stay at the Starway Hotel again? Absolutely, without a doubt! Especially if I'm attending another conference at the NECC. The location is a game-changer, the staff are helpful, and the spa is worth the price of admission alone. It’s not a flawless, five-star experience, but it’s comfortable, clean, and well-located. It’s a hotel that understands what weary travelers actually need - comfort, convenience, and a decent massage. And that, my friends, is worth its weight in gold. It's also surprisingly stylish.
The Not-So-Good:
I have to mention it. The Happy Hour was a bit weak. The drinks weren't bad, just… not particularly memorable. Also, a word to the wise: if you have a really early flight, the breakfast takeaway service might not be available. Plan accordingly.
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Headline: Shanghai Starway Hotel: The ULTIMATE NECC Conference Experience – Unbeatable Location, Luxurious Comfort & Stress-Free Stay!
Body:
Are you heading to Shanghai for the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC)? Ditch the stressful commutes and endless taxi rides! The Shanghai Starway Hotel offers the perfect solution: unbeatable proximity to NECC, providing you with a stress-free and convenient stay!
**Why Choose the Star
Escape to Paradise: Unbelievable Ellora Villas, Bali
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we’re about to dive headfirst into my Shanghai escapade. Specifically, the Starway Hotel Shanghai NECC Beiqing Highway. (Let's be honest, the name alone sets off a certain…vibe.) This ain't no meticulously planned, Instagram-perfect itinerary. This is the real deal. Expect delays, meltdowns, unexpected moments of joy, and probably a lot of questionable food choices. Consider yourself warned.
Day 1: Arrival – The Great Baggage Battlefield
7:00 AM (Shanghai Time, but who's counting?): Landed at Pudong Airport. The initial burst of optimism? Gone. Vaporized by the sheer scale of the airport. Finding baggage claim was like navigating a maze designed by a sadist. Seriously, I walked the entire length of the terminal twice before I found my damn luggage. And what did I find? One slightly bashed-up suitcase. Wonderful.
8:30 AM: The Metro! Ah, the glorious, crowded, slightly-smelly Metro. Getting to the hotel using public transport in Shanghai is one thing, but getting on the wrong subway line is even more annoying. The lines are too long to even see the end, so you end up waiting a long long time. Eventually, I arrived and went to the hotel.
10:00 AM: Check-in. The lobby of the Starway Hotel? Let's just say it's…functional. Think "hotel room you'd book if you were desperate and stranded." The staff were friendly enough, bless their souls, but the English was, ahem, "limited." Cue frantic pointing, hand gestures, and eventually, a victorious fist pump when I finally got the Wi-Fi password. Victory is sweet!
11:00 AM: Room assessment. Okay, no cockroaches! That's a win. The air conditioning is… questionable. But the bed looks clean. That's the best you can hope for, right? Immediately crashed. Jet lag is a cruel mistress.
1:00 PM: Lunch… or what was supposed to be lunch. Got a recommendation for a "local gem" nearby. Found it. Ordered what looked like beef noodles (via Google Translate, naturally). What arrived looked suspiciously like… everything I'd ever eaten from a questionable food truck combined. But, ya know, when in Rome (or Shanghai), right? Took three bites. Let's just say, my stomach and I reached a mutual understanding of "NOPE."
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Nap. Mandatory. Seriously, the jet lag was brutal. Plus, the noodles. Need I say more?
5:00 PM: Wandered around the neighborhood. Found a small street food market. Tried a baozi (steamed bun). Actually, it was…delicious! Redemption! Finally a good moment in this journey.
7:00 PM: Dinner at a… "nearby" restaurant. Actually, it was at the hotel. Ordered something I thought was chicken. Turns out, it was chicken…with something, something, I couldn't even describe. My appetite was gone. A whole slice of watermelon seemed to be delicious though.
8:30 PM: Collapsed on the bed. Watched some Chinese TV. Couldn't understand a word. Glorious.
Day 2: The Shanghai Exploration… Or My Attempt Thereof
8:00 AM: Attempted breakfast. The hotel breakfast looked rather sad. So, I decided to skip and instead go off to the street and try some more baozi. I should have skipped the restaurant as well, but hey, you live and learn!
9:30 AM: Decided to head towards the city, after a horrible time. The subway was packed. I was jammed in like a sardine, being pushed and shoved. It was an experience…in chaos. Eventually arrived to the city.
10:30 AM - 1:00 PM: The Bund. Okay, this was cool. Seriously. The skyline blew me away. Took way too many photos. Felt like a tourist! Which, I suppose, I am. The crowds were epic, though. Dodged selfie sticks like my life depended on it.
1:00 PM: Lunch. Found a "proper" restaurant. Finally figured out how to order something I actually recognized. Ate dumplings. Heaven.
2:00 - 4:00 PM: Nanjing Road. This street is endless! So many shops, so much shopping, so many people… I quickly became overstimulated. Needed a break. Found a quiet park and sat for an hour, just people-watching. Pure bliss.
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Chocolate Shop. I adore chocolate. I needed something sweet. Found a lovely, small chocolate shop, and went in. I got the most delicious chocolate truffles. They were so good, that I decided to stay for another hour.
6:00 PM: Decided to try to go back to the hotel. The Metro was even worst than this morning. It was crowded and I felt helpless. Getting to the hotel was a struggle.
8:00 PM - 9 PM: Dinner. Since I barely ate lunch, I wanted to eat something fulfilling. It was a local restaurant. I don't even know what I ate, but it was delicious.
9:00 PM: Back at the hotel. Worn out. I collapsed into bed, and felt happy.
Day 3: The Last Day, or What I Was Supposed to Do
- 8:00 AM: Got up. Decided to pack up my stuff.
- 9:00 AM: I wasn't hungry, so I decided to skip breakfast.
- 10:00 AM: Check out.
- 11:00 AM: It was time to head the airport.
The Verdict?
Shanghai, you're a beast. You're overwhelming, chaotic, and sometimes, downright baffling. The Starway Hotel? Let's just say it's a very local experience. But you know what? I'd do it again. The good moments – the skyline, those amazing dumplings, that perfect piece of chocolate – were worth the less-than-perfect ones. And that, my friends, is what travel's all about. Embrace the mess. Embrace the awkward. And definitely embrace that second nap. You'll need it.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a plane to catch. Wish me luck! I'm going to need it.
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Okay, Seriously, Is the Starway Hotel REALLY Close to the NECC? Like, "Roll Out of Bed and You're There" Close?
Listen, I'm a trade show veteran. My legs have seen things. And let me tell you, the Starway? It's borderline unfair. "Roll out of bed" is a definite understatement. Think "stumble out of bed, trip over your own feet, and still make the opening keynote with time to spare." I timed it once! From my room to the convention center entrance? ...Five minutes. That's it. Five minutes! In Shanghai traffic?! Unheard of! It's literally across the road, around the corner, slightly uphill (which, admittedly, after a long day of haggling with vendors, felt like Everest). Trust me, if proximity to the NECC is your priority (and let's be honest, it probably is, unless you're just REALLY into wandering aimlessly around Pudong), this place is gold. Pure, unadulterated, sleep-in-friendly gold.
"Luxury You Won't Believe"? Spill the Tea, What's Luxurious About It? Don't Just Give Me Generic Hotel Brochure Stuff!
Alright, alright, the "luxury" claim... It's… nuanced. Let's just say it's not the Ritz. It's more... practical luxury. The rooms are clean, which, after a day spent breathing air conditioning and corporate jargon at the NECC, is a HUGE win. The beds are comfortable. I'd say 'cloud-like mattresses', but let's be realistic, they're not. They *are* comfortable enough to collapse on after negotiating a deal for widgets or whatever you're selling at this trade show. The shower? Actually has decent water pressure. Believe me, I've stayed in hotels where you’d get more water from a drippy faucet. The best part? The *quiet*. Shanghai hotels can be noisy. This one, surprisingly quiet, especially when you consider you’re so close to a massive convention center. It's not Buckingham Palace, but it's a sanctuary after the trade show circus.
Is the Breakfast Any Good? I NEED Coffee and Sustenance Before Facing the Crowds.
Okay, breakfast. This is where we get a little... unpredictable. The coffee? Let's just say it's... caffeinated. Don't go expecting artisanal brews. It's more like "fuel-for-the-day" coffee. The buffet, however, is pretty decent. I’m a sucker for the little fried dough sticks, the *youtiao* , which I dunk religiously in congee. They usually have something vaguely resembling scrambled eggs. And the fruit! Always fresh, and honestly, some of the best watermelon I've ever had. This morning, though, they had a weird durian scent lingering... Thankfully, It was gone by the time I was done stuffing myself. Seriously, go for the fruit, and manage your coffee expectations.
What's the Wi-Fi Like? Can I Actually Upload Those Presentation Slides?
The Wi-Fi… Ah, the eternal struggle. It's usually… okay. Noticeable improvements over the usual hotel Wi-Fi in China, but don't expect lightning-fast speeds. I’d upload the slides the night before, just to be safe, while re-watching episodes of my favorite show. And I mean, it works for email, and video calls, more or less. Just… breathe! If you're dependent on constant, high-speed internet, consider a mobile hotspot or a very strong VPN. Otherwise, it gets the job done. Sometimes with a little grumbling.
Are There Any Restaurants or Shops Nearby? I Need Sanity Breaks!
Okay, "nearby" is a relative term in Shanghai. Right *outside* the hotel? You've got a few small convenience stores for water, snacks, and emergency late-night instant noodles. Which, let’s be honest, are sometimes the only thing that gets you through a tough week. More significant shops? Restaurants? ...You'll need to take a short taxi or a bus ride. There's a shopping mall about 15 minutes away by taxi with a Starbucks and a decent food court. That was my daily dose of sanity, I swear. So plan accordingly. Stock up on your essentials. And maybe learn a few basic Mandarin phrases for ordering noodles. Trust me, it's worthwhile.
What About the Staff? Are They Helpful? Can They Speak English? I need to confirm my flight.
The staff? Mostly lovely. English proficiency varies, so be patient and try to be clear. They're genuinely trying to help. Once, I had a complete meltdown, I lost my cell phone, and the front desk woman, bless her heart... she practically helped me retrace my steps. It turned out I'd left it in the taxi. She even called the taxi company! Above and beyond! Just remember, sometimes a little patience and a smile go a long way. Some speak excellent English, others, not so much. Google Translate is your friend, remember to use it, you'll need it, and smile!
Honestly, What's The WORST Thing About Staying At Starway?
Okay, the WORST thing? Hmm... Traffic, sometimes. I am exaggerating. The location is amazing, and it really is great, but you still need to navigate Shanghai's chaos from the airport to the hotel. Oh, and the vending machine selection is a bit limited. But honestly, I'm nitpicking. It's a perfectly fine hotel.
Would You Stay There Again? Honestly?
Absolutely. I'd book it right now. Seriously. For the proximity to the NECC alone, it's a lifesaver. It's not perfect, but it's comfortable, clean, and convenient. And after spending 12 hours a day shaking hands and making small talk at a trade show, sometimes all you need is a clean bed, a working shower, and five minutes of peace before the next wave of networking. I already have it booked for the next show! I can't imagine staying anywhere else. Okay, maybe the Ritz, but I'm not made of money.
What's your single best starway hotel experience?
Hands down, it was the time my suitcase got lost. Yep, completely vanished somewhere in the ether of international travel. ITravel Stay Guides
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