The Qingdao Haiqing Hotel in Shandong province attracts visitors from across the world, drawn by its renowned architectural style, artistic ambience, home-from-home environment and quality of service.

The four-star hotel established its reputation whilst providing accommodation for sailing competitors participating in the 2006 and 2007 Qingdao International Sailing Competition.

This reputation was further enhanced during the 2008 Paralympic Games, when it housed athletes from around the world.

Writing to thank the hotel's staff after returning home following the 2008 games, the Irish athlete, Maff M'govern, said: "I am very happy with the service I received. The staff members were very helpful, especially those in the laundry and guest room section."

One athlete from Russia was even moved to tears when the hotel made him a special "yacht-design" birthday cake and then threw a party for him.

In October of this year, team members of the OP class sailing team, attending the 11th National Games, not only enjoyed a successful medal-winning run, but also benefited from their stay at the hotel.

Zhang Chuancheng, general manager of the hotel, said: "As the sailors of the OP class competition are younger than many of the others, we worked hard to ensure they enjoyed their stay and tried to make them feel at home."

Throughout the sailing competition, the restaurant department of the hotel reserved a special area in the dinning hall for the sailors, serving them healthy and nutritious food, in line with the dietary requirements of athletes.

The housekeeping department, too, played its part, ensuring all the competitors received a high level of service. They even helped the young sailors wash and dry their clothes.

This special attention did not escape the notice of the young athletes, many of whom expressed their gratitude after leaving the hotel.

One guest wrote: "I stayed in the Haiqing hotel during the 2008 Olympic Games and I stayed there again during the 2009 National Games. Living in Haiqing is like living in my own home, I am so grateful for your warm, thoughtful and considerate service."

Located on the Donghai Middle Road in Qingdao, the hotel maintains much of the traditional feel of this coastal city, with guests privy to many exotic scenes - fish swimming in mini tanks on their dining table and models of Qingdao scenic attractions displayed in the lobby, to name but two. Whilst sitting in the rooms or lunching in the caf, guests can also look out across the nearby sea and watch a host of fishing and leisure craft.

The hotel also prides itself on its eclectic blend of traditional Chinese and Western elements. Although much of its internal architecture is European in style, oriental motifs are found throughout its teahouse, ocean view bar and art gallery. Visitors can also enjoy a host of cosmopolitan photography adorning the walls of its corridors and rooms.

In the teahouse, guests can have a relaxing cup or two, whilst listening to the gentle play of its indoor water features. A traditional tea ceremony, conducted by the hotel's staff, is also on offer.

Besides Chinese food, the hotel also supplies international cuisine, including European, Korean, Japanese and Muslim dishes.

Qingdao Haiqing Hotel attracts visitors through its renowned architectural style, artistic ambience, home-from-home environment and quality of service.

 

(China Daily 11/14/2009 page3)