…
Hotel Indigo will open its first property in Asia Pacific in May 2010 at Shiliupu at the Southern end of The Bund in Shanghai. The only hotel to sit directly on the Huangpu River front, Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund assures not only spectacular views of both the historic Bund and dramatic Pudong skylines, but an upscale boutique hotel experience where the focus is on informal yet personal service, individual design reflecting the local neighborhood, and providing guests with an authentic taste of today’s Shanghai, where old and new converge.
Shiliupu is a place brimming with history and alive with the memories of the many who have arrived and bid farewell to Shanghai through its gates for more than 140 years. It is a place, which has been testimony to the ebb and flow of Shanghai’s history and is now shaping into a commercial and retail destination recognized for its stunning views, open green areas and extensive shopping and dining options. Stepping out of the hotel, guests can either explore the delights and energy of the Old Town or take a leisurely stroll along the river front to enjoy the grandeur of The Bund. Alternatively turn left out of the door and a five minutes ferry ride from the Shiliupu will take them directly to modern Pudong and the heart of the Expo village. With ferries running every 15 minutes throughout the day and costing a mere 0.5 RMB, it makes commuting not only easy and affordable, but an experience.
All Hotel Indigo properties are individual by design, reflecting not only the city they reside in but the essence of their local neighborhood; Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund is no exception.
Hotel Indigo Shanghai on The Bund features an eclectic mix of modern and authentic design to create an inspiring and playful environment, contrasting traditional Chinese pieces with distinctive contemporary local finds. The proximity of the river and dock has been subtly woven into the fabric of the design and great attention has been given to creating varied spaces to suit guests’ every mood. The end result is an informal and intimate hotel that is a highly individual and fresh representation of the local neighborhood and energy of the City.
“With its unique location on the river front and focus on local creativity and bespoke design, Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund will offer visitors to the city something quite different. The hotel has a distinct character; we wanted to move away from simply replicating the ambience of 1930s Shanghai and instead create a less formal environment that represents the diversity and very best of old and new Shanghai,” commented Bruce Ryde, General Manager.
Featuring 182 rooms, including 21 River View Suites and two Spacious Garden Terrace Suites with extensive private terraces, each individually designed room at Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund provides all of the creature comforts expected from an upscale boutique property, but they are anything but ordinary. Maximizing the spectacular views and combining traditional and modern Chinese design and bespoke pieces, each room provides an intimate haven and unexpected details – be it the bathroom with an oversized wet room and walk in “shell shower”, the reclaimed Shikumen brick feature wall or the hidden refreshment bar with individually designed tea sets.
All rooms feature complimentary wifi, internet telephone (to allow for low cost international calls), a 42” flat screen TV with DVD, a Bose music sound system, iron and ironing board, a ‘lap top’ safe, a fully stocked mini-bar complete with locally sourced luxuries, a complimentary traditional tea service, an espresso machine and fresh, home baked treats. A selection of pillows is available to suit every guest’s preference and room service is available 24 hours offering a select choice of home-style cooked dishes and Shanghai favorites, using only the freshest, local seasonal ingredients.
For guests wishing to unwind, work, meet friends or conduct informal business meetings out of their room, the Sanctuary awaits them. Complete with dedicated relaxation areas, work spaces and social corners, refreshments and a Cafe menu, guests can make themselves at home and find sanctuary whatever their agenda. For those needing to work or connect with the outside world, complimentary internet access is available throughout the area and wider hotel, while dedicated work stations and seating areas provide more comfortable business spaces. Or if it is simply escapism and relaxation guests crave, then massage chairs and reading areas in the library offer quiet solitude from the bustling City.
For the more active, the hotel also features a state-of-the-art gym using the latest equipment, with private tai-chi and yoga classes available on request. It is the glass fronted infinity swimming pool, however, that steals the show. Situated on the 7th floor overlooking the Huangpu River, it floats above the South Bund, offering guests a fascinating viewpoint of the working river as they swim their lengths.
And when the day is over, with an exclusive setting on the 29th and 30th floors of the hotel overlooking the river, Char will be one of Shanghai’s top dining and social spots. From Char’s open grill kitchen the chef will delight with signature dishes and international classics, all made using the freshest seasonal ingredients available. While the Bar will feature an enticing cocktail selection and an extensive wine list, most available by the glass, so guests can sit back, take in the spectacular views and unwind to the relaxing compilations from Char’s resident DJ.
Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund offers a full compliment of business services and contemporary meeting/conference rooms equipped with the latest technology. All rooms feature stunning views over the river and across to the Pudong skyline – perfect for impressing clients and partners.
An upscale boutique brand, Hotel Indigo is the fifth brand that IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), the world’s largest hotel group, has introduced to Asia Pacific. Established in 2004, Hotel Indigo offers guests a boutique hotel experience paired with the peace of mind, service quality and Priority Club Rewards benefits they get from staying at an IHG property. The brand pioneers a new concept targeting upscale travelers who seek a more individual and authentic experience that incorporates local historic, cultural and natural elements. The same high standards expected from IHG are exercised, but delivered within a less formal and more intimate service culture that focuses on making guests feel at home.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
