The hotel is very typical of what you would expect from a 5*, beautiful lobby, professional staff, large dining facilities etc.
The staff were great from the start and the breakfast was excellent. My only concern is value for money and whether I feel that paying 2x what I could pay in a very comfortable competing 5* or even 4* results in two times the quality of experience. Sadly, I'd say no.
When I checked in I had to pay 4000 deposit,.that's on tip of the more than 3000 to Trip.com as a guarantee. So for 2 nights, I've paid 7000RMB upfront.
The 'non-smoking' room smelled of smoke, which ive come to expect in China. The only way to manage this is to hit locals in the pocket and put a sign in all rooms saying 'evidence of smoking on check out will result in losing your deposit'. To be fair to the staff, they responded quickly and tried room smoke smell but responded quickly and offered to clean the air with some machine but it's totally ineffective once smoke is embedded in the upholstery and walls.
The club lounge was a very nice benefit of staying on floor 26, great selection of food, salad and drinks. However it should be called the kids lounge because there were more children than adults running wild. Not very relaxing but worth a visit.
The hotel bar said 'all inclusive' on the drinks menu but then 6% tax was added at the end. This isn't all inclusive and the hotel has either a legal or ethical responsibility to make charges clear before the customer orders.
The coffee machine at breakfast wasn't working on both days, either no water, or the filter needed emptying. It could have just been bad timing for me but staff should keep an eye on consumables and keep things running.
The location is a short taxi ride to Wuxi railway station and ancient street. The giant Buddha is a 45 min taxi or I believe you can take the 88 bus. Heliekou station (exit 7) is literally by the entrance of the hotel.
Room was quiet, good selection of complimentary toiletries and 2x water each day. Mini bar had drinks and snacks but chargeable.
The hotels best feature was outstanding employees.