Shenzhen, known for its rapid transformation from a fishing
village to a global tech hub, is home to some of China’s most innovative
hotels. The Hui Hotel stands out as one of the city’s most intriguing boutique
accommodations, combining artful design with urban sophistication. My stay at
this property offered a mix of excitement, discovery, and a few quirks that
make it an unforgettable experience.
Walking into the Hui Hotel, you’re immediately greeted by an ambiance that’s anything but ordinary. In the lobby, real live birds rest in intricate birdcages, lending a tranquil, nature-inspired vibe. Check-in is also a modern experience, with self-check-in kiosks equipped with facial recognition technology. While this feature is innovative, foreign guests still need to check in manually at the front desk.
One of the hotel’s standout features is its design ethos.
Each room and space is uniquely curated, filled with books, artwork, and decor
that feel more like a gallery than a standard hotel. However, this level of
customization comes with its own challenges, as uniformity and practicality
often take a backseat to aesthetics.
My room was a visual delight, with sleek, modern furniture
and thoughtful artistic touches. A standout feature was the bedroom mirror,
which doubled as a TV screen—although the picture was slightly dimmed, and the
sound was disappointingly low. Another nifty addition was a TV near the
bathtub, offering a luxurious touch for those who enjoy soaking while watching
their favorite shows.
The hotel features a small but well-equipped gym, providing
all the essentials for a quick workout. Unfortunately, the swimming pool was
closed during my stay, officially due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, the
truth seemed to lie in the hotel’s low occupancy during the Spring Festival,
which often leads to skeleton staffing and limited amenities.
Throughout the hotel, guests are treated to an abundance of
reading material, from books to magazines, adding to its intellectual and
creative atmosphere.
After settling in, I ventured out to experience Shenzhen’s
vibrant dining scene. The city is renowned for its BYD taxis, which offer a
comfortable and affordable way to explore the area. For dinner, I couldn’t
resist the pull of Taco Bell—a rare find in China. While the food was as subpar
as expected, it still provided a nostalgic taste of home that’s hard to come by
when living abroad.
Shenzhen itself is a city of innovation and contrasts. From
its tech-focused Nanshan District to its lush parks and burgeoning art scene,
it’s a place that embodies modern China’s dynamism. The Hui Hotel mirrors this
spirit, offering a creative refuge in the midst of a bustling metropolis.
Staying at the Hui Hotel is not about perfection; it’s about
the experience. From its artistic design to its thoughtful details, the hotel
provides a refreshing departure from cookie-cutter accommodations. While minor
engineering issues and design quirks might frustrate some, they are easily
outweighed by the hotel’s charm and character.
Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply looking for a
unique stay, this boutique hotel offers a creative oasis amidst the city’s
hustle and bustle. And if you’re lucky, you might even enjoy your morning
coffee accompanied by the chirping of the lobby’s feathered residents.
Rojo Rating:
- Location: 7
- Facilities: 6
- Amenities: 6
- Décor: 9
- Staff: 6
- Food: 7
- Cleanliness: 5
- Comfort: 6
- Uniqueness: 9
- Value: 7
Total: 68/100