SOMLAND CHONGMING

Finally, my long-awaited stay at this guesthouse came true! From eagerly anticipating it in winter to actually experiencing it in summer, the reality surpassed all my expectations, filling me with immense joy. Every little detail at the guesthouse was a delightful surprise. The exquisite snacks waiting for us upon check-in were the first warm welcome. In the evenings, a comforting goodnight tea, accompanied by soft lighting, gently relaxed our tired bodies and minds. The abundant breakfast each morning felt like a true gift from nature. Even the stylish shower curtain in the bathroom, simple yet elegant, was perfectly charming and thoughtful. Despite being embraced by a natural ecosystem where 'little creatures' might be expected, the guesthouse environment was exceptionally well-maintained. We didn't find a single mosquito or insect in our room, which is truly remarkable for such a natural setting. My child was particularly captivated by the little frogs, who merrily hopped along the path to the pool and around the courtyard. Peering out the window, their eyes sparkled with a pure, unadulterated love for nature. In that moment, I felt like I was looking at my younger self, brimming with a desire to explore the world. On our second day, my brother decided to make pizza in the guesthouse kitchen. What started as a playful experiment turned into an astonishing culinary success! The pizza was incredibly delicious; even my brother, who usually shies away from pizza, couldn't stop at three slices! It wasn't just good because he made it; it was genuinely fantastic. And despite being an amateur effort, it was absolutely authentic. The owner had been burning lychee wood charcoal, specially transported from Guangzhou, since early morning. Paired with the kitchen's homemade tomato and onion sauce, the aroma was simply irresistible, making our mouths water. I am determined to visit this guesthouse in all four seasons to fully appreciate its distinct charm throughout the year. In spring, it might be adorned with wildflowers, the air heavy with the scent of damp earth. Summer would offer lush shade and the soothing symphony of cicadas, an ideal escape from the heat. Autumn would transform the paths into a golden tapestry of fallen leaves, like a scene from a fairytale. And in winter, perhaps blanketed in snow, it would resemble a tranquil ink wash painting. Regardless of the season, this place is destined to be a sanctuary for the soul.

I've been eyeing this place since it first opened, and I finally got the chance to visit – so glad I did! Right after booking, a dedicated concierge reached out to me to share details about interactive activities and dinner options. This thoughtful personal touch was truly impressive! The privacy and service here are truly exceptional, largely because there are only nine rooms, accommodating just nine guest groups! Parking includes charging stations, and bicycle rentals are available, which means you can easily cycle to nearby spots like 'One Foot Garden' (about 2km away) for a different kind of adventure. The rooms were immaculate, and all the amenities were chosen to ensure maximum comfort. The rustic, eco-friendly design and furnishings instantly make you feel connected to nature. The mini-fridge is generously stocked with complimentary drinks and beer. Crucially, the breakfast was absolutely delicious, featuring both a partial buffet and à la carte options. Seriously, their homemade bread is a must-try! I've heard that April, during the flower season, is even more breathtaking, and I'm already eagerly looking forward to my next visit!

Chongming Songman, a place I've had on my wishlist for a long time. Due to a last-minute booking, I couldn't secure my preferred Viburnum room type. Still, our ground-floor room came with a small private courtyard, and it was a charming surprise to have cats visit in the mornings. Overall, the property boasts a tasteful design. While there's an indoor hot spring pool and a back garden with swings and lounge chairs, the overall area for activities and exploration on-site is quite limited. Furthermore, the cleanliness of the swimming pool left a bit to be desired, meaning small children couldn't fully enjoy playing in the water, which was a shame for families. Guests can also inquire about and book the wood-fired pizza making and handicraft activities in advance. The butler service, however, was commendably attentive and responsive. Dinner quality, on the other hand, wasn't particularly outstanding, though its convenience was certainly a plus.