Sofitel adds a touch of French glamour to Xining

Full of colorful markets, characterful attractions and surrounded by mountains that are great for hiking, Xining, capital of Qinghai province, also makes a great base for exploring the beautiful scenery of China's largest inland saltwater lake and nearby Tibetan areas.

While it can be quite cold in the winter, during the summer Xining is one of the most pleasant cities in the country, and is known as the Summer Resort Capital of China thanks to its clement weather.

Lying in a valley along a tributary of the Yellow River at an altitude of 2,275 meters, Xining is the largest city on the Tibetan Plateau, and it has a diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures that not only give the city its vibrant character, but also make it great for foodies who are willing to try the street stalls.

The city's historical attractions highlight both its history as a melting pot and its past prominence. While today, Xining's go-ahead business climate is proving a magnet for investment and its proximity to the natural beauty of Qinghai Lake and the less well-known Mengda Nature Reserve is attracting growing numbers of leisure travelers.

No matter whether you are visiting the city for business or leisure, platinum 5-star comfort and convenience are guaranteed at the newly opened Sofitel Xining.

Sofitel is the luxury brand of Accor Hotels, and Paul Richardson, chief operating officer, Accor Greater China, said, "The opening of Sofitel Xining breaks new ground as the city's first international brand hotel."

"Accor Hotels is proud to play a part in making one of China's hidden gems more accessible and enjoyable for leisure and business travelers alike," he said.

Located in the west of the city, the hotel is part of Xining Xin Hua Lian City Complex, which is also home to a high-end shopping center, grade-A office buildings and residential towers. The complex is close to all the major city government offices, and just 15 minutes from the old town and 20 minutes from the high-speed train station.

First impressions of a place often make or break, and the pomp of the porte cochere and elegant driveway convey a promise of comfort and luxury that the neo-Gothic style building with its lofty ceilings and magnificent chandeliers doesn't disappoint.

Local accents in the 492 rooms and suites convey a sense of place that harmoniously complement Sofitel's signature decor of ivory and taupe and the French characteristics of the good life, such as French bathroom amenities by Lanvin and Herms, fresh flowers, French artwork and music. For guests who want a more exclusive level of service, 54 Club rooms and suites with upgraded facilities and exclusive benefits are located alongside Club Millesime on floors 16 and 17.

And, of course, there is fine food and wine.

Whether it's the predominantly Southeast Asian and European food in the postmodernist dcor of Kwee Zeen, innovative Chinese haute cuisine or authentic local specialties at Le Chinois, or the meticulously prepared delicacies available at Nabe, Xining's first full-service Japanese restaurant, the hotel's three restaurants are sure to satisfy all culinary desires. And Le Bar in the Lobby serves everything from the finest Champagne to gourmet coffees from around the world.

For meetings and special events the hotel has 2,500 square meters of function rooms that can accommodate everything from cocktails for 1,000 to business meetings for 12.

Leisure options include a spa specializing in traditional oriental rejuvenating treatments, as well as a beautiful indoor swimming pool and gym.

Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

Alongside the Sofitel, Accor Hotels is introducing stylish and upscale serviced apartment living with Sebel Xining. Each of the 197 spacious apartments has a fully equipped kitchen, separate living area and modern bathroom. A direct connection to Sofitel provides access to the hotel's restaurants and other services for guests who want to enjoy the greater flexibility of apartment-style living.

"The opening of Sofitel and Sebel in Xining will be a strong addition to Accor's luxury and upscale brand presence in Northwest China, with both brands appealing to travelers looking for excellent service and state-of-the-art leisure and business facilities," said Michel Molliet, senior vice-president, operations, luxury upscale, Accor Greater China.

lindsayandrews@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 07/18/2015 page10)