I am extremely satisfied with the Howard Johnson. Because I travel to small factory towns in China all the time, I know that it's almost impossible to find a hotel (even if it says it's 5 stars), with 5 star international standards. Whatever system which is awarding 5 stars to those hotels is surely not minding International norms.
THIS hotel however, looks and feels like an international 5 star. It's spotless. There are still a few things you'll have to accept, for example NONE of the staff actually speak English well. You will have a really hard time requesting even the simplest of things on the phone. For this reason I gave them a "Nice" and not a "Perfect". However, knowing that there were communication issues, management seemed extremely accommodating and helpful. I asked for a translation service and the manager sent me his assistant. Her English was limited but it served my purpose. For this, I am extremely thankful.
Next time I'm in Yixing or proximity, I will certainly be staying at the Howard Johnson.
|