Traveling around China for 23 days was an epic adventure filled with rich cultural experiences, vibrant cityscapes, and breathtaking natural wonders. Our journey took us from the Great Wall to the Terracotta Warriors, and to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. Amidst the whirlwind of activity and exploration, we decided to indulge in a night of luxury at the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund. The hotel is not cheap, in fact it cost us £480 for a single night, this experience was undoubtedly a splurge, but one that promised unparalleled views and world-class service.
First Impressions and Check-In Experience
Upon arriving at the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund, it was clear that this hotel was steeped in history and elegance. The building, an iconic symbol of Shanghai’s colonial past, stands majestically along the famous Bund, offering a striking contrast between old-world charm and the modernity of the Pudong skyline across the river.
We arrived at the hotel at 14:20 after an overnight sleeper train from Xi’an the day before. So after a long day and night of travel with my children, Mathew and Holly, we were eager to get to our room and unwind. I realised that the rooms only become available after 15:00 but I was hoping the room would be ready a little earlier so we could check-in and get refreshed.
Unfortunately, the check-in seemed to take forever, the staff remained friendly and courteous throughout, but there was no room available for us at that time. They took my mobile phone number and my WeChat account name and said they would message us when it was ready. We used that time to visit Yu Gardens which was a few minutes walk away. The hotel never contacted us to say the room was ready, in the end we finally checked checked-in fully at 18:30 after returning from Yu Gardens.
The Room: Deluxe River View with Unbeatable views of the Bund and Pudong Skyline
We had chosen the Deluxe River View Room, primarily for the promise of breathtaking views of the Bund and the Pudong skyline. Upon entering the room, we were greeted with a panoramic view that was nothing short of spectacular. The sight of the futuristic skyscrapers juxtaposed against the historic buildings of the Bund is a visual treat that instantly justifies the room’s steep price tag.
The room itself was spacious, tastefully decorated, and exuded a sense of quiet luxury. The two queen beds were incredibly comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep after a long day of sightseeing. For all of us, the highlight was undoubtedly the large windows with plush chairs perfectly positioned to take in the view. We spent a significant amount of time just sitting there, watching the boats glide along the Huangpu River and the city lights twinkling as night fell.
The Bathroom: A Blend of Luxury and Modernity
The bathroom in our Deluxe River View Room was another highlight of our stay. It was generously sized and featured a luxurious bathtub, a separate shower, and a Japanese toilet, which added a touch of modern sophistication. The Japanese toilet, with its array of functions, was a novel experience for us, blending technology and comfort in a way that epitomized the attention to detail at the Waldorf Astoria.
The bathroom’s marble finishes, and high-end toiletries further enhanced the sense of luxury.
Evening Turn-Down Service: Thoughtful Touches
One of the standout aspects of our stay at the Waldorf Astoria was the evening turn-down service. When we returned to our room after an evening stroll along the Bund, we found that the housekeeping staff had been in to prepare the room for the night. The beds were neatly turned down, our electric charging cables had been neatly tied up, and soft lighting created a warm and inviting atmosphere.
But what really set this service apart were the thoughtful touches that accompanied it. On the bedside table, we found a selection of fresh fruit and beautifully presented cookies, a delightful surprise that was particularly appreciated by Holly and Mathew. These small, personal touches are what elevate a stay from simply good to truly memorable.
View the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund at Booking.com HERE
Dining: A Lavish Breakfast Buffet
Breakfast at the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai was an experience in itself. The hotel’s breakfast buffet offered an impressive variety of options, catering to both Western and Eastern tastes. From freshly baked pastries and artisanal bread to dim sum and traditional Chinese dishes, there was something to satisfy every palate.
Mathew, who is something of a foodie, was particularly taken with the made-to-order French Toast, while Holly loved the selection of fresh fruit and juices. The quality of the food was exceptional, and the service in the dining area was attentive without being intrusive. The breakfast provided the perfect start to our day, fuelling us for our visit to Shanghai Disneyland which we visited after checking out.
The Swimming Pool: A Hidden Gem
One of the most pleasant surprises of our stay was the hotel’s swimming pool. Many luxury hotels boast pools, but the one at the Waldorf Astoria stood out for its size and elegance. The pool was large enough for proper laps, and the surrounding area was beautifully maintained, creating a serene oasis in the middle of the bustling city.
In China, it’s common practice for swimmers to wear caps in hotel pools, and the Waldorf Astoria was no exception. Fortunately, the hotel provided swimming caps, so we didn’t need to worry about bringing our own. Holly, who is still learning to swim, was thrilled when the friendly pool attendant offered her some floats and other toys to help with her practice. This personalized attention made the swimming experience even more enjoyable for her, and it was clear that the staff genuinely cared about making our stay special.
Check out the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund at Booking.com HERE
The Service: Warm, Friendly, and Attentive
While the check-in process may have been a bit slow, the overall service at the Waldorf Astoria was exemplary. The staff were consistently friendly, professional, and eager to assist with any requests. Whether it was the concierge helping to look after our bags or the housekeeping staff attending to our needs, everyone we encountered went out of their way to ensure our comfort.
The Cost: A Worthwhile Splurge
There’s no denying that £480 for a single night in a hotel is a significant expense. However, in the context of our 23-day journey across China, this night at the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai was a worthwhile splurge. The combination of luxurious accommodations, impeccable service, and the unbeatable views made it a memorable part of our trip.
For us, the main justification for the expense was the view from our room. Watching the Bund and the lights of Pudong come to life was a magical experience that we will remember for years to come. It was a perfect way to relax during our epic journey through China, providing a moment of peace and reflection amidst the excitement of travel.
Final Thoughts
Our stay at the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund was a luxurious treat that added a touch of elegance to our China adventure. While it was certainly a splurge, it was one that provided a unique and memorable experience. From the breathtaking views and spacious, well-appointed room to the attentive service and thoughtful touches like the turn-down service and swimming pool amenities, the Waldorf Astoria lived up to its reputation as one of Shanghai’s premier luxury hotels.
If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai and are looking for a place to stay that offers both historical charm and modern luxury, the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or a bit of both, this hotel offers an experience that is truly worth the investment. For us, it was a night of indulgence that perfectly complemented our epic China trip, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime.
Tips for Future Guests
- Book a River View Room: The views of the Bund and Pudong skyline are unparalleled and worth the extra cost.
- Enjoy the Breakfast Buffet: The variety and quality of the food are excellent, so make sure to take your time and savor the offerings.
- Bring a Swimming Cap: While the hotel provides caps, it’s always good to have your own, especially if you plan on using the pool frequently.
- Take Advantage of the Concierge: The staff is knowledgeable and can help you make the most of your time in Shanghai with recommendations and reservations.
Our stay at the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund was one of the hotel highlights of our trip, offering a luxurious pause amidst our adventure-filled itinerary. It’s a place that combines the best of Shanghai’s past and present, providing a tranquil retreat in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Check out the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund at Booking.com HERE
