Suzhou Hotels from $36

I had stayed at the Garden Hotel on my first trip to Suzhou many years ago. On my regular trips over the years, I stayed in another hotel selected by Suzhou locals. As I was unable to book my previous hotel, I was happy to return to The Garden as I was sure my Chinese born wife would enjoy it along with the wonderful city of Suzhou. The hotel was very comfortable with lovely garden surrounds but does show its age. Staff and related service were excellent. I was somewhat disappointed that little effort was made to cater for western tastes despite the fact that many of their clinets were westerners. At best, a western style cafe would have sufficed. I did try to order a coffee from the bar as I noted they had an expresso coffee machine, but the young lady lacked any working knowledge of coffees. Breakfast was adequate but again offered little directed to a western palate. After two weeks in central China, it would have been nice to indulge in some western food. We did enjoy a private banquet in their upstairs dining hall. I would like to suggest that Expedia review its marketing. It was only when I booked for this hotel that I was advised that only one breakfast was included in the charge despite booking for two people. I believe that is deceptive marketing. One would not expect to purchase a car and then find out the price only included the back tyres. The location of The Graden is very pleasant -- just a short stroll from the Lingering Garden. Another Suzhou delight.

We stayed 2 nights in a junior suite at the hotel towards end Jun. Recommend the hotel for : - its beautiful architecture resembling Chinese city wall, various pagodas, peaceful gardens ... - private entrance to the tranquill Panmen Garden with old city wall, lake, tower ... - easy access via newly opened subway line 4 Nanmen station exit 1 which is 10 mins walk from hotel