The second St. Regis property to open in China lives up to expectations. In central Pudong, this property lies in one of the world's fastest-developing business centers.
The beige-and-black marble lobby rises for three stories, with a grand staircase ascending to the mezzanine on the right and the reception tucked away to the left.
In-room check-in speeds up the arrival process considerably. Innovative architecture creates a lotus pattern, blending the walls, floor patterns and upper levels into graceful arcs. Glass and metal are used tastefully to create a modern decor. Up the grand staircase, at the Mezzanine Lounge, drinks are accompanied by live violin and piano music.
World-class dining can be found at Danieli's Italian Restaurant on the 39th floor and at Carrianna, offering southern Chinese cuisine. The Saints Restaurant serves international buffets 24 hours a day.
The gym has excellent equipment, and the wooden blinds in place of the usual mirrors lend it a much more relaxed ambience. The large, very clean indoor pool lies underneath a skylight, and the spa is state-of-the-art. Outdoor tennis courts, a sauna, whirlpool and steam rooms round out this enviable health center.
Meeting space encompasses 12 function rooms and the grand Astor Ballroom, which can seat up to 400 people and is often booked throughout the weekend with multiple weddings, creating a festive ambience in the hotel. All these 
facilities are supported by a 24-hour business center.
Guest rooms here are the largest in Shanghai and provide everything that guests could wish for, including fresh flowers, fruit and 24-hour butler service. The contemporary furnishings all look brand new even after more than five years of operation, and the warm colors and large windows make rooms inviting.
Furnishings feature enormous soft beds with especially plush pillows, large well-designed desks with good work lighting, ergonomic desk chairs, plush velvet armchairs and ottomans, and even throw pillows to make everything a little more comfortable.
Rooms are also outfitted with Bose sound systems, free high-speed Internet access, safes, minibars, and a selection of international daily newspapers. Marble baths have separate tubs and rain showers, good water pressure, thick towels and high-end amenities. All guests have access to the 40th floor executive lounge, where free nonalcoholic drinks are served during the day and cocktails and canapes are served at night.
The staff all speaks impeccable English and are extremely professional—particularly the butlers who all work extra hard to please. One of Shanghai's nicest hotels today offers a level of luxury unmatched by all but a couple of Chinese hotels.
