RRalph D.SWe initially only had 3 days visiting Dali, but rarely does a hotel ever influence me in staying longer in a particular city. Dont get me wrong, Dali is VERY BEAUTIFUL. Its got enough offerings for it to convince me to stay longer. But since this is a review of this hotel, I will keep it that way.
For starters, the staff: there are 3 whom we've had the pleasure of meeting
1.) The front desk/lobby gentleman who is very accommodating and knowledgeable. He made sure we were happy with everything and even offered to give my party of 5 credits for our ”didi” rides, one of China's largest ride share.
2.) The young lady housekeeper/tea/greeter/everything, she will provide you with all the necessities you may require. Disposable towels it works, give it a shot before knocking it, bottled water, soap, laundry detergent, anything. She also has the sweetest personality and although I didn't speak Mandarin all too well, we somehow understood each other. Shes simply amazing.
3.) The owner, she is a person of faith. If she senses anything wrong with you, she wont hesitate to offer medicine and food free of charge to make you feel better.
All of the above 3 staff rescued my mom in law when she felt unwell due to altitude sickness. Oxygen bottles were ready at 18rmb each, they even offered to try it first to see if it works before paying. It just goes to show the lengths they are willing to go to ensure their guests are well taken care of.
Now for the hotel: I might have to copy and paste this review because I actually booked 2 rooms. One for my family and another for my inlaws.
I booked the largest two bedroom with bunk bed and really tall ceilings equipped with a living room, and another was a panoramic view of both Cangshan mountain and Erhai lake on the 3rd floor corner. I forgot what it was called but the place was dreamy and well equipped. Not to mention all rooms were decked out with ZEN like decorations beyond compare.
How can I say this in the best way possible...
The location isnt the closest to the ancient city, meaning you cant walk it, but didi is quite affordable that this did not matter to us. The school bells and songs that play during specific hours are oddly satisfying and did not cause any disturbance. Cars will be cars, especially in China, so wherever you stay, hearing horns here and there is inevitable. But the windows, curtains and walls are great for sound absorption.
Combined with the beauty and serene touches this place had to offer like the koi pond, zen garden, traditional pagoda and courtyard aesthetics, along with the decor of each room that surpassed my expectations, I cancelled a more expensive hotel to stay here with the intent of trying only for a night and moving to another. With the cherry on top being served by the most humble staff, our 3 nights in Dali became 5 nights.
The distance to each attraction was never an issue thanks to the affordability of ride share programs in China. Being slightly away from the busy areas, we were welcomed with peace, quiet, and a community like vibe. We walked the back streets, visited a Buddhist temple about 5 minutes away, and dined at actual local restaurants.
The vacation became an eye opener, especially for a westerner like myself.
My family and I, even though we still have 2 nights left, already look forward to our next trip to Dali. And when that time comes, this place will be where we stay without hesitation.
I cancel a lot of hotel bookings because they rarely match what is shown on the app. You know that feeling. But this place, we were brought here for a reason.
My family loves this place. And to the staff, thank you for welcoming us and making us feel comfortable.
Dali, into the awakening place. What a beautiful and appropriate name for such a place of tranquility and hospitality.
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