New hotel offers relaxed retreats

Songbei Shangri-La in Northeast China's Heilongjiang province blends tradition and modernity, Tian Xuefei in Harbin and Wu Yong in Shenyang report.

Shangri-La International Hotel Management Ltd opened its most northerly hotel in Harbin, capital of Heilongjiang province, on Jan 10, aiming to tap the hot market of ice and snow tourism.

The 344-room Songbei Shangri-La is the brand's second property in the northeastern city, after the group opened the Shangri-La Hotel, Harbin in 1999.

The global, Hong Kong-based hotel management company currently operates more than 90 hotels in 73 destinations across 22 countries and regions under the Shangri-La, Kerry, Hotel Jen and Traders brands.

"We are proud to have been part of Harbin's development as a global destination and to have welcomed travelers for nearly two decades," said Tyson Wang, general manager of Songbei Shangri-La, Harbin.

"With a second property, we look forward to unveiling new lifestyle experiences and inviting the community and international visitors to enjoy our blend of tradition and modernity in Harbin."

The gleaming new property anchors Shangri-La in the heart of Harbin's Songbei business district, a Sino-Russian communication hub since the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Songbei Shangri-La, Harbin is located on the edge of the Songhua River's north bank, just 40 minutes away from the international airport and 30 minutes from Harbin West Railway Station. It is a five-minute drive from the city's internationally renowned ice festival at Ice and Snow World. Other nearby attractions include the Sun Island Garden, Siberian Tiger Park and Harbin Grand Theater.

Designed in a contemporary style with tranquil hues and local art pieces, each living space in the hotel integrates mood lighting and free Wi-Fi services, with spacious marble-finished bathrooms and walk-in wardrobes. The hotel also provides 33 executive serviced apartments.

The three largest suites - the Lilac, Songbei and Shangri-La Suites - elevate the concept of luxury with stylish interiors for family or business travelers entertaining on the top floors of the hotel.

Adding to the exclusivity is the Horizon Club Lounge, where Horizon Club and suite guests can enjoy extra privileges, including express check-in and check-out services, a complimentary breakfast buffet, all-day refreshments and evening cocktails, and concierge services.

The hotel has adopted many local cultural design elements, such as snow scenery and lilac flower carpets. It also provides local cuisine, including stewed sliced pork with pickled cabbage, served with Harbin Beer.

Wang said the hotel will launch a variety of seasonal products and services. For example, snow and ice are the themes of the hotel's winter service package. All guests can enjoy panoramic views of the snow-covered Songhua River and eat hot pot in an ice palace.

In addition, the hotel provides free tourist bus services, refreshments, and even hats and scarves for those who want to visit the ice and snow park.

Contact the writers through wuyong@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily 01/21/2017 page10)