Hyatt Regency Guiyang

BACKGROUND Hyatt Regency Guiyang was the first international hotel to open in Guanshanhu District (Guiyang’s newly emerging business district) in 2011. The seven-storey hotel features 366 rooms and is positioned as part of the Guiyang International Conference and Exhibition Centre. As such it caters predominantly to MICE guests. WHERE IS IT? The hotel is about 30 minutes from the city centre (with no traffic) and a 30-minute drive from Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport. The area benefits from less congestion and a growing number of banks, offices and government buildings are moving into the area. WHAT’S IT LIKE? The public spaces of the hotel are beautifully designed. This is immediately apparent in the spacious reception area, which features a suspended silver sculpture created by the local Miao ethnic minority. The lobby lounge and Chinese restaurant are also striking, with an elegant Oriental aesthetic. A standout feature is the sprawling hotel garden, complete with a cascade designed to mimic the famed Huangguoshu waterfall. Service is slick, levels of English are high and the staff are friendly. ROOM FACILITIES The first thing that struck me about my Regency Club room were the two floor-toceiling windows – a benefit of having a corner room. Not only did this provide prime views of the lush hotel garden, but it also allowed in lots of natural light. This was particularly welcome as the room was otherwise a bit dark and drab; the décor featured brown and neutral tones and there was wood panelling on the walls. Even the lighting was a bit dim – fine for relaxing, but not ideal for creating a stimulating work environment.

The facilities however were very good. The large wooden work desk had international plug sockets (with HDMI, USB, ADTV capabilities) and was paired with a comfortable swivel chair. Wifi speeds were excellent (although users will need their own VPN). There were also all the usual facilities of a five-star hotel, including 24-hour room service, an iron and ironing board, safe, minibar, slippers, dressing gown, etc.

The bed was large with a firm mattress, although I did find the duvet to be slightly on the thin side, particularly given the single-digit degrees outside and the fact that the thermostat seemed slightly unresponsive. In the bathroom, there was a large rain shower and bathtub with Portico Spa products, plus well-stocked amenities including toothbrush, cotton buds, etc.

One thing worth noting is that non-smoking rooms (like mine on the club floor) are actually in the minority, contrary to current international trends – so book early if you want to ensure a stale-smoke-free experience. RESTAURANTS AND BARS Five excellent F&B outlets offer a wide choice of options, from all-day dining in Café to premium Western fare in the Fire Place and popular hot pot in Re La La. The spacious lobby lounge, designed to reflect Guizhou’s natural scenery, offers live piano music most evenings, with views over the rustic grounds. MEETING FACILITIES A large pillarless ballroom holding up to 1,000 can be partitioned into three. It faces onto the gardens, giving the option for outdoor events. There are also six meeting rooms (Salons) with flexible arrangement options ranging from informal couches to classroom-style layout. The club lounge is basic, but offers snacks, a computer service (with VPNs so international travellers can access sites such as Gmail or Facebook) and a meeting room. It too offers pleasant views over the garden. LEISURE FACILITIES An indoor swimming pool and fitness centre are located in a separate building, connected via a glass walkway on the second floor. The gym is compact but comprehensive, with an additional yoga studio. The hotel also provides a jogging map for guests who wish to explore the gardens. Ling Spa is also available with several private treatment rooms. Tamsin Cocks

The public spaces of the hotel are beautifully designed... the lobby lounge and Chinese restaurant are striking