Peace Hotel (Heping Fandian)

Frommer's Review

Built in 1929, the Peace -- known in its heyday as the Cathay Hotel -- is Shanghai's best known historic hotel. Noel Coward wrote Private Lives while staying here in 1930, and Steven Spielberg filmed scenes for Empire of the Sun from inside the hotel. The lobby is an Art Deco masterpiece and the view from the rooftop is magnificent. Rooms, renovated in 2003, are spacious, with large closets and high ceilings, though some retain their old furnishings. For the full effect, splurge on a "Nine Nations" deluxe suite (¥5,880/$735), each decorated in the style of a particular country (Chinese, British, American, French, Indian, and others). For all the Peace's fame and ideal location on Nanjing Lu and the Bund, the amenities and service -- inefficient and uninspired -- barely rise to the four-star level (even though the hotel is rated five stars). The former Palace Hotel (built in 1906) across the street has now been turned into the south wing of the Peace. At press time, the Peace was due to undergo significant renovations (to be completed in 2008) in order to stay competitive with the top hotels in the area, including the nearby future Peninsula Hotel Shanghai.

Facilities:
3 restaurants; 2 lounges (jazz bar, rooftop bar); health club with sauna; concierge; tour desk; small business center; salon; 24-hr. room service; babysitting; same-day laundry service/dry cleaning; nonsmoking rooms; executive-level rooms

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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