Review of Oriental Riverside

This hotel is located in the Pudong area but right on the Huangpu and directly across from the Bund. Its next to the Pearl Tower which makes it easy to locate in a general sense, but no taxi driver at the airport knew where it was or where the Shanghai International Convention Center was, to which the hotel is directly attached. Bring hotel phone number with you (86-21) 50370000 and if you can, mark it on a map. I had trouble finding the address on the English website in Chinese to bring with me but its probably there on the Chinese version (too bad I don't read Chinese!).

For a business hotel this one does the trick. The rooms are nicely appointed but apart from the views from the window there is nothing here that would make you feel like you are in Shanghai.

On the plus side, it is clean and the decor is not offensive in white, creams and gold tones. The bed and pillows are very comfortable, with all white linens. Has plenty of room for suitcases and a desk for working. They have a variety of electrical outlets - even one North American style 3 prong outlet necessary for my laptop (although I had to unplug the TV to use it). By the bed there is a gadget that lets you control lighting in the entire room - even hall and bath lighting so there is no need to hop out of bed to turn off or on lights. I also have a great view from my room. The ceilings are high and the room is well lighted. In the bathroom there is a tub with shower and a free standing shower. Fixtures are all Moen and Toto and are in good working order. Water pressure is acceptable, and no shortage of hot water. Towels are large, clean and plentiful. Closet space is adequate, and they provide robe and slippers. There is also a safe to guard valuables. As I came for a conference in the Shanghai International Convention Center, it is conveniently located (it directly attached). Lobby is large and impressive.

On the down side, it is not anything special in so far as a quintessential Shanghai experience. The bathroom is clean but showing signs of aging with some small cracks and a spot of mildew. The shower door leaks. Also there is only one electrical outlet in the bathroom which is occupied by a permanent installation of a blow-dry contraption. So if you have to curl your hair or use an electric shaver, the mini bar mirror will have to do.

Service has been very good. For business, this hotel is great - if you are traveling on vacation, it will seem too expensive for what you get and you'll be happier staying over on the other side of the river in the Bund or French Concession.