Wuxi Marriott Hotel Lihu Lake: A Tranquil Getaway

As a Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite member, I love exploring the unique experiences offered by each Marriott hotel. During the Qingming Festival holiday, I chose to travel during off-peak times. Hotel prices were cheaper, and there were fewer people at the attractions. It was a high-quality escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and I embarked on a tranquil getaway. 1. Hotel Overview: A Blend of Jiangnan Gardens and Taihu Lake Scenery Wuxi Marriott Hotel Lihu Lake is located by Lihu Lake, adjacent to the Yuantouzhu Scenic Area of Taihu Lake. Since its opening in 2018, it has become a popular choice for vacation and business travelers in the Yangtze River Delta region, thanks to its Jiangnan garden-style design with "gardens and scenic spots within reach." The hotel was designed by Hong Kong CCD Design Firm, combining the elegance of northern architecture with the delicacy of Jiangnan gardens. The gray and white buildings complement the shimmering waters of Lihu Lake, reminiscent of the classical scene of Fan Li and Xi Shi boating on the lake. During the Qingming Festival, the surrounding willows sway, and cherry blossoms bloom, adding to the poetic atmosphere. 2. Room Experience: As a Marriott Silver Elite member, I booked the most basic room type this time. Even during off-peak travel, the hotel did not upgrade me to a suite but upgraded me to an Executive Lake View Room (a higher-floor room facing Lihu Lake), offering a panoramic view of Lihu Lake. 3. Dining Experience: A Combination of Local Flavors and Member Benefits 1. Executive Lounge: Located on the top floor, the lounge offers a wide view. During my stay, I enjoyed afternoon tea and happy hour, mainly replenishing fruits and soda. Dinner was filling, and the dishes were replenished promptly. 2. Zhen Kitchen All-Day Dining: I had breakfast and dinner buffet here. Breakfast was at the traditional five-star hotel level, with everything available, but no dishes left a special impression. Hotel guests can enjoy a 20% discount on the dinner buffet, and it can also be charged to the room for points. I was impressed by the small lobsters (half a lobster per person), the grilled French lamb chops, and the sirloin steak, which were all delicious. I had four or five servings. Additionally, there was a brief appearance of ham with melon in the evening, which felt like great value for money. 4. Facilities and Services: 1. Fitness Facilities: I haven't been there, but it looks good online, with a children's pool. 2. Family-Friendly: The hotel offers a kids' club, but I didn't use it. I went out with my child, and there were many entertainment facilities (similar to arcades) on the basement floor. 3. Service Details: This was my second stay, and even during the off-season, there was no upgrade. The last time I traveled with my parents, I booked two rooms, and the hotel generously provided breakfast and executive lounge access for two additional people. 5. Nearby Attractions: A Great Base for Qingming Outings 1. Cherry Blossom Viewing at Yuantouzhu: A 30-minute walk or a 10-minute taxi ride. The hotel is conveniently located, and after breakfast, there weren't many people at the scenic area, making for a better experience. 2. Lihu Lake Walk: Exit the south gate of the hotel, turn left, and follow the lakeside path. It's suitable for morning runs or post-meal walks, allowing you to experience the beauty of "the shimmering water is best on a sunny day." 6. Summary and Suggestions Advantages: - Excellent location, close to Taihu Lake and Yuantouzhu, convenient for cherry blossom viewing during the Qingming Festival; - Design combines Jiangnan gardens and modern aesthetics, with high-quality room hardware; - Outstanding dining, especially local specialties and lounge service; - Electric vehicle-friendly, with charging stations available at the hotel, offering slow charging, which I find very nice. Disadvantages: - Some facilities are slightly outdated (e.g., small pool, low-floor rooms are damp and stuffy); - Limited commercial facilities nearby, requiring taxis for shopping, but the distance is not far (to MixC); - Welcome fruits are no longer available, replaced with local snacks like small twists, which is not a good customer experience, although the lounge upstairs always has fruits and drinks available.