The InterContinental Shanghai Hongqiao NECC is a luxury
hotel strategically located in the heart of Shanghai’s National Exhibition and
Convention Center (NECC). Perfect for business travelers attending events at
the massive exhibition center, this five-star hotel offers direct access to
NECC’s halls, making it an unbeatable option for convenience. Though primarily
a business hotel, its high-end amenities and spacious rooms make it a
comfortable choice for travelers looking for a well-rounded stay close to Hongqiao
Airport.
Location: A Prime Spot for Business and Events
Positioned at the edge of Shanghai’s National Exhibition and
Convention Center, InterContinental Hongqiao NECC offers unrivaled convenience
for those attending conferences and events at the center. It’s just a 10-minute
drive from Hongqiao Airport, making it an ideal spot for those flying in for
quick business trips. Hongqiao Railway Station is also close by, offering
high-speed rail connections to various major Chinese cities.
While its primary focus is to serve the business crowd, the
hotel is still close enough to Shanghai’s key commercial hubs for those wanting
to explore. A quick metro ride will bring guests to the vibrant streets of Xintiandi
or the Bund if you’re keen to experience the city's top tourist destinations.
The rooms at the InterContinental Hongqiao NECC are designed
with the business traveler in mind. The junior suites are particularly
spacious, featuring large king-sized beds, work desks, and multiple TVs in both
the bedroom and living area. The decor, though modern and clean, leans on the
safe side—subdued tones and functional layouts that, while practical, don’t
stand out for their aesthetic flair.
Each room is equipped with the expected five-star amenities,
including a well-stocked minibar, coffee-making facilities, and free bottled
water. Bathrooms are spacious with separate bathtubs and rain showers, although
some guests note minor fit-and-finish issues in the older rooms. However,
cleanliness remains a priority, and the rooms are immaculately maintained.
Facilities: A Full Range for Business and Leisure
The InterContinental Shanghai Hongqiao NECC provides all the
facilities a business traveler could need, starting with a fitness center. The
gym, though not enormous, is equipped with everything you need for a good
workout, including cardio machines and weights, and it overlooks the main
concourse, offering views of the NECC area which are not that impressive.
The hotel also boasts a large indoor lap pool, perfect for
unwinding after a day of meetings or walking the convention halls. The pool
area is well-maintained and offers a serene space for relaxation, away from the
hustle and bustle of the exhibition center.
There are multiple dining options within the hotel,
including an all-day buffet that serves an international mix of cuisines,
though prices are steep for the offering. Guests often recommend the room
service menu for convenience, though it's equally expensive with dishes like Caesar
salads priced at 100 RMB and burgers costing up to 168 RMB.
Dining: Decent but Expensive
Dining at the InterContinental Hongqiao NECC can be hit or
miss. While the breakfast buffet and room service menu offer a wide variety of
options, the cost is a point of contention for many guests. The buffet is
priced at 400 RMB, which might seem excessive unless you’re taking full
advantage of the all-you-can-eat offerings.
If you’re looking to save on meals, there are some local
dining spots within driving distance, but be prepared for higher prices on-site
if you’re sticking to hotel dining. However, the quality of the food remains
high, making it a good choice if convenience is your top priority.
Service: Business-Oriented Efficiency
As expected from a business hotel, the service at InterContinental
Hongqiao NECC is efficient and professional, though not particularly
personalized. The staff is well-trained to handle high volumes of conference
attendees and event-goers, and they are quick to assist with check-ins and
requests. The concierge service is helpful, especially for travelers unfamiliar
with navigating the vast NECC complex or arranging transport to and from the
city center.
While the hotel excels in quick, business-like service,
those looking for a more personalized or intimate hotel experience might find
the atmosphere a bit lacking in warmth.
There’s no doubt that the InterContinental Shanghai Hongqiao
NECC comes with a price tag to match its location and five-star status. Rates
are on the higher end, especially during major events at the NECC, but for
those attending conferences, the convenience alone might justify the cost. If
you’re not there for an event, though, you might find more value in hotels
located further from the NECC, particularly if you’re keen on exploring more of
Shanghai.
Final Thoughts: A Top Choice for Event Attendees
If you’re heading to Shanghai for a conference or event at
the National Exhibition and Convention Center, the InterContinental Hongqiao
NECC is an excellent choice for its unbeatable location and full range of
business facilities. It’s a functional, well-equipped hotel that prioritizes
convenience and comfort for business travelers, though it might not offer the
charm or uniqueness that leisure travelers seek.
Rojo Rating:
- Location:
8
- Facilities:
7
- Amenities:
7
- Décor:
5
- Staff:
7
- Food:
7
- Cleanliness:
8
- Comfort:
6
- Uniqueness:
4
- Value:
6
Total: 65/100
If you’re attending an event at the NECC, InterContinental
Hongqiao NECC is the top choice for convenience, offering direct access to
the exhibition halls and a full range of business services.