THE VIEWS A-BUND

The newly opened W Shanghai The Bund brings the group’s signature blend of whimsy and top-tier hospitality to China’s cultural capital

TO TRAVEL IS to see the world and immerse yourself in another culture, discovering the secrets of a new land.

But if you're staying in the new W Shanghai The Bund, you've got another option – to stay inside and luxuriate.

Equal parts modern and retro-glam, the new behemoth soars above the city's most famed landmarks, with unprecedented views over the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the Shanghai Tower and all of Pudong. Inside, W Shanghai The Bund is reimagined art deco decadence, punctuated with modern touches such as the towering, multilevel Electric Laneway installation – a neon work that captures the perfect blend of old and new, which in turn characterises the city.

It's a wonderful, whimsical, decadent maze of the best of all that W Hotels have to offer: snazzy cocktails, decadent spa treatments, world-class gym amenities, incredibly friendly staff and two stunning swimming pools. But of course, in any bustling city, luxury is privacy – and you'll only get that in your room.

Room 4018 is the one to book; it's one of 58 “Cool Corner” rooms in the hotel. Each boasts 560sqft of pure views, with Puxi expanding to one side and Pudong bustling to the other. The interior is modern and sleek, with bold colour accents, such as the golden demi-banquette that stretches along the windowed walls. Carved above the bed is an illuminated hulu – an ancient, auspicious gourd that's a symbol for protection, happiness and good luck.

There's a smart-toilet, a rainfall shower and a superbly stocked minibar, but the allure of Room 4018 is the freestanding bathtub. Generously sized enough for two – but far too enticing to share – it looks directly out over the city. The 24-hour room service also means a bottle of champagne is never far away – and it sets the scene for the perfect addition to any late-night soak, when the city twinkles at its finest.