In Zhongshan, I had the chance to explore the Passion Man
Hotel, a serviced apartment complex that represents a growing trend in China’s
urban areas. These serviced apartments are increasingly popular due to their
flexibility and modern amenities, making them an ideal option for business
travelers, digital nomads, or anyone looking for short-term accommodation that
feels more like home than a typical hotel room.
In China, serviced apartments have evolved significantly in the last decade. While traditional hotels offer basic accommodation, serviced apartments like those at Passion Man Hotel cater to guests who prefer a blend of hotel-like services with the comforts of a home environment. These units are typically fully furnished, including a kitchen, living area, and often separate workspaces, making them suitable for longer stays. The concept originated in the West but has been embraced enthusiastically in China, especially in tier-one and tier-two cities where professionals often need temporary housing while searching for more permanent options.
The building itself is a mixed-use development, common in
many urban Chinese environments. Here, the same complex houses not just
residential units but also commercial businesses like yoga studios, photography
studios, small restaurants, and even legal offices. This design reflects the
highly integrated and efficient use of space in Chinese urban planning,
catering to the lifestyle needs of city dwellers who prefer to have work,
leisure, and accommodation all in one location.
The particular unit I toured was brand new, never before
occupied, and featured smart home technology throughout. From the moment I
walked in, I was impressed by the bright and sunny décor. It avoided the
darker, muted tones of many hotel rooms and instead opted for a cheerful
palette with pops of color that gave the space a fresh, welcoming feel. One
standout feature was the integration of a smart home system called “XiaoDu,” an
AI assistant similar to Amazon’s Alexa. Using XiaoDu, I was able to control the
entire apartment via voice commands—everything from the lights and curtains to
the air conditioning and television could be adjusted simply by speaking.
The room itself had all the amenities you’d expect from a
high-end serviced apartment: a fully equipped kitchenette with a stove,
refrigerator, complimentary coffee and tea set, and ample cabinet space for
longer stays. The bathroom included a “smart medicine cabinet” with built-in
Bluetooth, allowing you to play music while getting ready in the morning, and a
defogging feature for the mirror—details that show a focus on convenience and
modern living.
One of the unique aspects of the apartment was the balcony
setup. Many serviced apartments in China now feature outdoor spaces that
include amenities like washing machines and utility sinks, making it easier for
guests to handle their laundry without leaving the unit. This particular
balcony also had a retractable drying rack, controlled via a small crank.
Upstairs, the apartment continued to impress with a
Japanese-style tatami area, a feature that’s becoming increasingly popular in
Chinese interior design. This area had a power-adjustable platform that could
be lowered to create a flat surface for a sitting area or sleeping mat, and
underneath was ample storage space—a clever solution for maximizing utility in
a compact living environment. The floating staircase leading up to the second
floor added a modern, minimalistic touch, enhancing the apartment’s open and
airy feel.
The second floor featured the main bedroom, a small but cozy
space with a soft mattress designed specifically for international guests who
might find traditional Chinese beds too firm. Many serviced apartments in China
have recognized this preference and have started offering softer, Western-style
mattresses to accommodate different sleeping habits. This room also had a large
closet, a private bathroom, and an additional room set up as a calligraphy
studio, complete with brushes, ink, and paper—a nod to traditional Chinese
culture that added a unique and local flavor to the experience.
One of the biggest selling points of these serviced
apartments is their integration with smart technology. Instead of a keycard,
guests receive a link via text message that allows them to access the room
directly from their smartphone. This same link opens a browser-based control
panel for the entire apartment, enabling guests to adjust the temperature,
control the lights, and even open the curtains remotely. For example, if you’re
out and want to grant access to a friend or family member, you can unlock the
door for them from anywhere in the city—a level of convenience that traditional
hotels simply can’t match.
In terms of pricing, serviced apartments like this one offer
a significant value compared to standard hotels. During peak season, the cost
of this one-bedroom unit with a kitchenette, two bathrooms, and an office space
is around $50 per night. In comparison, a room at a local Hilton can cost over
$100 per night. Given the amenities and privacy offered, it’s a great option
for travelers looking for a longer-term stay or those who want a more homely
feel.
Located next to one of Zhongshan’s tallest buildings and
within walking distance of a major shopping mall with a new cinema and a
variety of restaurants, the area offers a great mix of convenience and
entertainment. This makes serviced apartments an attractive choice not just for
locals but also for expatriates and foreign visitors who want a taste of modern
Chinese urban living.
Overall, serviced apartments like those offered by Passion
Man Hotel are redefining the hospitality landscape in China. They provide a
hybrid option that’s both cost-effective and comfortable, with a focus on
privacy, technology, and cultural integration. Whether you’re staying for a
weekend or several months, these apartments offer a compelling alternative to
traditional hotels, tailored to meet the needs of today’s discerning travelers.
For anyone planning to visit China, especially in cities
like Zhongshan, I highly recommend considering a serviced apartment stay. It
offers a unique way to experience local life while enjoying the conveniences of
a hotel, with a level of comfort and privacy that’s hard to beat.
