Nanjing's Presidential Palace: Luxury Stay at Hanting Premium Hotel (Zhongshan Dong Rd)
Nanjing Presidential Palace: Hanting Premium Hotel (Zhongshan Dong Rd) - A Review from a Real Traveler (with a Few Quirks!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the Hanting Premium Hotel (Zhongshan Dong Rd) experience, right smack dab in the heart of Nanjing and conveniently near the Presidential Palace (which, by the way, is absolutely stunning – but more on that later). This isn't your sterile, perfectly-manicured travel blog; this is a real person (me!) spilling the beans, warts and all. And let me tell you, there were some warts. But also, some seriously sparkly diamonds.
Let's kick things off with the most important (and the first thing I always check):
Accessibility:
Okay, so full disclosure, I don't use a wheelchair. But I did scrutinize this because I always admire a hotel that keeps everyone in mind. They check all the boxes! Elevator, Facilities for Disabled Guests – all there. So, A+ on that front. Seeing as I’m not going to get a firsthand experience, I can only go off of what is listed which is great.
On-Site Accessible Restaurants / Lounges: No specified information available to me.
Wheelchair Accessible: Although I could not personally experience these things, it is stated that they have provided solutions for wheelchair accessibility.
Internet, Oh Glorious Internet!
Internet Access: Yes, yes, and YES! Thank goodness. I need my internet. Free Wi-Fi in All Rooms!: Praise be! Seriously, a must-have. Internet [LAN]: Yep! And the password wasn't "password." Always a good sign. Internet Services: Available, and thankfully, worked. Wi-Fi in Public Areas: Yep, even in the lobby. I was like a kid in a candy store!
Things to Do, Ways to Relax… A Rollercoaster Ride!
Alright, this is where things get interesting. They claim to have a ton of stuff. Now, I'm a pretty relaxed traveler, but I like options. Let’s break it down, shall we?
- Body scrub, Body wrap, Fitness center, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor]: This is the dream! This is the promise of, “Relaxation, redefined!” I’m picturing myself blissed out by the pool, then casually hitting the sauna, and finally, a massage to melt away the stress. They had, indeed, a Gym/fitness. But the Pool with view or the Spa/Sauna… they were not there. I was a little sad on that front, to be honest.
Cleanliness and Safety: The COVID Factor (and My Paranoia!)
Okay, let's be real. We're all a little germaphobic now, right? So how did Hanting do?
- Anti-viral cleaning products, Breakfast takeaway service, Cashless payment service, Daily disinfection in common areas, Doctor/nurse on call, First aid kit, Hand sanitizer, Hot water linen and laundry washing, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Shared stationery removed, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment: They really go above and beyond on this front. I saw them wiping down every surface, and the hand sanitizer was everywhere. Made me feel a little less freaked out, which is a win!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Good, the Okay, and the "Meh"
This is where things get…variable.
- A la carte in restaurant, Alternative meal arrangement, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant: So, they claim to have a buffet and restaurants. The breakfast buffet was…adequate. Nothing to write home about, sadly. A little more variety (and maybe some better coffee) would have been amazing. The Room service was quite good actually.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things Matter
This is where Hanting really shines. They’ve thought of everything.
- Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center: I'm talking Daily housekeeping (thank you, angels!), a handy convenience store and a proper Concierge who were incredibly helpful and friendly! A big thumbs up from me.
For the Kids: My Observations (Not Having Any, Thank God!)
- Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal: Fine! If you love 'em and need them.
Access, Security, and All That Jazz:
- CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private], Couple's room, Exterior corridor, Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Hotel chain, Non-smoking rooms, Pets allowed unavailable, Proposal spot, Room decorations, Safety/security feature, Security [24-hour], Smoke alarms, Soundproof rooms: Soundproof rooms are essential!
Getting Around: No Brainer
- Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking: Easy peasy.
Available in All Rooms: The Essentials (and the Little Luxuries)
- Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens: Everything you need and more. It was a cozy space to come back to after a long day of exploring.
The Real Deal: My Hanting Premium Experience
Okay, so let's get to the heart of it. What did I really think?
The location is gold. Seriously, the Presidential Palace is breathtaking, and it's practically on your doorstep. (Do yourself a favor and GO! It's mind-blowing). The staff were super friendly, trying their hardest. The room was comfy, clean, with great views (try to get a high floor!). The internet, as I mentioned, was reliable. I felt safe and secure.
But…the breakfast could use some work. And the lack of a pool/spa was a bummer. However, if you are looking for a nice, comfortable, and clean, centrally located hotel, this is a great choice.
Quirky Observation: The slippers were the fluffiest things I have ever put on my feet. I seriously considered stealing them (but didn't!).
The Verdict: Would I Recommend?
YES! Absolutely! The Hanting Premium Hotel (Zhongshan Dong Rd) is a solid choice for your Nanjing adventure. It’s well-located, clean, and the staff are lovely. Just manage your expectations on the amenities, and you'll have a fantastic stay!
Nanjing Presidential Palace: Your Luxury Stay Awaits!
Tired of generic hotel experiences? Crave a taste of history and modern comfort? Look no further than the Hanting Premium Hotel (Zhongshan Dong Rd) in Nanjing!
Imagine this: You wake up in a stylish, impeccably clean room with incredible views. After a quick coffee by the window, ready to explore the breathtaking Presidential Palace, just steps away!
Why Choose Hanting Premium Hotel?
- Prime Location: Immerse yourself in the heart of Nanjing's history and culture. The Presidential Palace and other attractions are at your fingertips!
- Unbeatable Comfort: Relax in thoughtfully designed rooms featuring free Wi-Fi,
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your average, pristine travel itinerary. This is me, rambling through the halls of Hanting Premium Hotel Nanjing Zhongshan Dong Road Presidential Palace, a place that probably sounds fancier than it is (or maybe it is, who knows, jetlag's a bitch). Let's just say, I'm expecting a bit of the "premium" and praying that it's not all "Hanting" and no "Palace."
The Great Nanjing Adventure: A Chronicle of Crumbs, Catnaps, and Questionable Street Food
Day 1: Arrival and the Glorious Meltdown of the Suitcase
- Morning (or what felt like morning, thanks to the timezone sorcery): Landed in Nanjing. The flight was as smooth as the questionable peanuts they served. Customs went surprisingly quick. Victory! Until I saw my suitcase. Dear sweet baby Jesus, it looked like a bomb went off inside. Clothes everywhere! That's okay. I figured it's like unpacking a life: a mess to begin with, but with a bit of work, everything'll fall into place. Hopefully.
- Afternoon: Taxi ride to the Hanting. Let me tell you, the Nanjing streets are a sensory overload. Bikes whizzing, horns blaring, and smells… a symphony of smells. Some great, some…confusing. We arrived at the Hanting. The lobby looked promising enough, clean and modern. But the real test? The room. Pray for me.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Room is… functional. Not exactly Versailles, but cleanish. Bed's comfy, which is all that matters after 20 hours of travel. Tried the shower. The water pressure? A trickle. But hey, at least it's warm. Unpacked what I could find after the suitcase massacre. Then, sheer exhaustion hit. Catnap central.
- Evening: Dinner. Decided to be brave and venture out. Found a noodle shop near the hotel. Oh. My. God. The noodles! The broth! Amazing. I think I ate an entire mountain of noodles. Seriously, my face is now plastered with evidence of my gluttony. The conversation with the waitress? A glorious mix of pointing, miming, and the universal language of smiles. Success! Finished it off with some "Bing" - Chinese pancakes. I will be back.
Quirky Observation: The air conditioning in this hotel is a mystery. Sometimes you freeze, sometimes you sweat. It's like a sentient being trying to decide my fate.
Day 2: Temple Troubles and the Search for Dumplings
- Morning: Dragged myself out of bed. Jet lag, you nefarious fiend! Fuelled up with some instant coffee (surprisingly good for instant). Today's mission: The Presidential Palace (Yes I did not go there yesterday, I was too dead.)
- Late Morning: The Nanjing Presidential Palace. Okay, this is actually pretty damn impressive. The history is thick in the air. Like, you can practically smell the old government. The scale of the place is astounding. I got a little lost, wandered into a random courtyard and almost broke a vase. Whoops.
- Afternoon: Lunch adventure. Found a place selling… dumplings! Sweet, savory, spicy… the whole shebang! It was absolutely divine. I ate enough to feed a small army. Seriously, I might need a new pair of pants. Maybe I will become one with the dumplings.
- Late Afternoon: Decided to walk a bit. Nanjing is a beautiful city. I got to the Xuanwu Lake, which is stunning! I swear I saw a swan give me a dirty look.
- Evening: Dinner with the people, a small, family-owned dumpling shop. Oh my god, I am in the right place. The dumplings were a symphony of flavors, and the dipping sauces were killer. I ate more than I should have, but I regret nothing. The owners were kind, even though my Mandarin is atrocious. Pure joy.
Emotional Reaction: The Presidential Palace made me think about time, power, and how much history has transpired in these very spots. The lake was calming, and the dumplings literally brought tears of joy to my eyes. I think I'm starting to fall in love with this place, even with the questionable air conditioning.
Day 3: The City Walls and the Perils of Karaoke
- Morning: Explored the Nanjing City Wall. The views! Amazing views of the entire city! Walking the full length of the walls is a workout. I am glad I decided to carry on.
- Afternoon: Karaoke. Yes, you read that right. My colleagues wanted to experience it. My voice? Let's just say it's not my forte. I tried my best, butchered some Mandarin pop songs, and mostly just laughed. It was a hilariously bad experience, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.
- Evening: Farewell dinner. The group decided to visit a fancy restaurant. The food was delicious (and way more expensive than my noodle and dumpling habit!), but I mostly just reminisced about the noodle shop and dumpling shop. Nothing beats simple pleasures. Tried the local beer. It was… an experience. Didn't hate it, didn't love it.
Messy Structure: The Karaoke bar was a surreal experience. The room was dimly lit, filled with strangers, and the volume was set to "ear-splitting." My colleagues kept yelling instructions at me (in a language I barely understand!), and everyone was clearly having a blast at my expense. But, you know what? It was fun. In a masochistic, I-can't-believe-I-did-that kind of way.
Day 4: Departure and the Lingering Smell of Adventure
- Morning: Last breakfast. Stole a lot of the buffet selection, just in case. Checked out of the Hanting. Goodbye, air con-mystery!
- Late Morning: Taxi to the airport. Reflecting on the past few days.
- Afternoon: Flight home. Nanjing, you wild, beautiful mess. I will miss you.
Final Thoughts: Nanjing is a city of vibrant contrasts. The historical sites are awe-inspiring, the food is amazing, and the people are incredibly kind. There are some rough edges, some cultural misunderstandings, and a whole lot of jet-lagged confusion. But those are the very things that make this trip memorable. I return home slightly fatter, utterly exhausted, and with a heart full of dumpling-fueled joy. This isn't just a vacation; it's an experience. And I wouldn't trade it for all the perfectly-packed suitcases in the world.
P.S. If you find a pair of slightly used socks in the Presidential Palace, they are mine. Don't judge. Jet lag.
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Nanjing Presidential Palace & Hanting Premium Hotel (Zhongshan Dong Rd): The Good, the Bad, and the Rambling
Is the Nanjing Presidential Palace actually worth visiting? Like, REALLY?
Okay, so here's the deal. Yes. And no. It's…complicated. The Nanjing Presidential Palace is a historical behemoth, a place where history literally *breathed*. You’re talking about the seat of power for Sun Yat-sen, the KMT, and even the early PRC. That's some serious weight. Walking through those halls, you can practically *feel* the echoes of debates, the hushed whispers of power plays…it’s actually kinda spooky (in a good way, mostly).
But let’s be real, it gets packed. Like, shoulder-to-shoulder-with-a-thousand-tourists packed. That can suck the historical mystique right outta ya. I went during a national holiday once…never again. You'll need the patience of a saint (and maybe a good pair of elbows). The exhibits themselves are…okay. Plenty of old photos and documents, some English translations that are sometimes a little...off. (They could be trying to hard to be elegant.)
My advice? Go. But go early. Go on a weekday. And mentally prepare yourself for crowds. Otherwise, you might miss out on the cool historical vibes.
How close IS the Hanting Premium Hotel to the Palace? Because "nearby" can mean *anything*.
"Nearby" is the operative word here. It's *really* close. Like, a short walk. Maybe 5-7 minutes, depending on how fast you stroll and how distractable you get (squirrel!). And that’s a huge bonus. No battling traffic, no complicated subway journeys. You emerge from the hotel, and BAM! Presidential Palace. That alone makes it worth considering. Plus, after a day of trudging around, you can collapse back at the hotel practically instantly . I’d kill for that after a long day. Maybe not kill…but you get the idea.
I remember specifically, I was BEAT. Hours of staring at history really takes it out of you. And it was HOT that day. I just wanted a shower and a nap. The walk back? Pure bliss. Especially since it was past the lunch hour, so I didn't have to see any more crowds heading that way. It was like a private victory, just for me.
Is Hanting Premium Hotel, you know, *premium*? Or just pretending?
Alright, let's tackle this head-on. Hanting Premium…it's a budget hotel, let's be clear. But hey, it's a *premium* budget hotel! So, expectations, people! Don't go expecting the Ritz. DO expect clean rooms, efficient service (generally), and surprisingly decent amenities. I always get a kick out of how a lot of the budget hotels have the heated toilet seats. I'm not sure why it's a thing, but I'm not complaining.
The rooms are small, but comfortable enough. The bed was decent. The bathroom was clean. The free Wi-Fi actually worked! (This is a huge win, sometimes.) The breakfast buffet? Fine. Nothing to write home about, but fuel for the day. And after a long day, sometimes, fine is *perfectly* fine. I mean, what else do you need after touring all day?
But… there were some things. One time I went, it was like, 3 am. I was tired, but the air conditioning wasn't working. I called reception, and after some fumbling around with Google Translate and a lot of pointing, this poor kid came up and said, "Hot!" So here I was, sweating in my room, while he did some fixing. It's a memory I'll treasure.
What's the food situation around the hotels? Are there any good places to eat?
Oh, YES. Food is one of the best parts about being in Nanjing. You're in China, people! This area is a GOLDMINE. Literally. The immediate area around the hotel has a ton of local restaurants. You'll find everything from tiny dumpling shops (GO FOR THE DUMPLINGS!), to noodle houses, to spicy Sichuan places that will set your mouth on fire (in a good way!).
Don't be afraid to experiment. Point at things, use a translation app, embrace the chaos! That’s how you find the real gems. And trust me, they're out there. One time I walked for ages and came across a street food stall selling what I *think* was some sort of fried tofu. It was… amazing. I didn’t know what it was, and I don't know *exactly* what it was made of, but I am not going to lie. I'd fly to China for that tofu right now.
Oh, and don't miss the Nanjing salted duck. It's a must-try. Seriously, it's the local specialty. Salty, savory, delicious. Just… go eat it. Immediately.
Okay, you mentioned "crowds" earlier. Any tips for avoiding getting swallowed whole by tourists? I’m not a fan.
Alright, Crowds 101. I'm not gonna lie, it's tough. But here are some life hacks I’ve learned the hard way.
- GO EARLY. Like, when the doors open. You’ll thank me later.
- WEEKDAYS ARE YOUR FRIEND. Weekends? Forget about it. Unless you like being squished like a sardine.
- PREPARE FOR QUEUES. Even if you go early, you'll be waiting. Bring a book, download a podcast, or just accept your fate.
- FIND THE SIDE ENTRANCES. Sometimes, (and this is a pro tip), the crowds all funnel through the main entrance. Look for other access points.
- EMBRACE THE CHAOS. Seriously. Just accept that you're going to be surrounded by people. Try to enjoy the experience, even if you can't see a damn thing.
Most importantly, have your camera ready. You'll be glad to say, "I was here." and be able to prove it to others.
What kind of experience should I prepare myself for?
Prepare yourself for *history*. Seriously, immerse yourself in it. If you're a history buff, you're going to go wild. If not, you're still going to find something fascinating. Prepare yourself for:
- Overwhelming Exhibits. There's a lot to take in.
- Possible Language Barriers. While there are English translations, they can sometimes be lacking.
- Overwhelming Number of People. Crowds are a fact of life.
- Exhausting Walks. Wear comfortable shoes.
- Memorable Stories. No matter what, you'll find something that you'll talk about for months.
It's going to be an experience! Let it absorb into you!
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