Huilaotang Biz Club

Stayed one night and totally in love with the place. First of all, the photo here is not of Huilaotang. The actual place is stunning, beautifully restored ancient courtyard and nicely decorated. Personal touches of both owner and general manager are everywhere. Rooms are literally like Ming/Qing furniture museum with all precious pieces collected by owner, who is an ancient furniture lover, over years. The location is an advantage and disadvantage. It locates in Luxiang village famous for this type of Ming/Qing courtyard around an hour or so of drive from downtown Suzhou. For who'd love to experience slow pace living and rural life, or has some interest in architecture or Chinese history, the place is perfect. You don't have much to do after 8 pm except having a long dinner with friends, talking with the very knowledgeable GM Mr. Wen, or reading a book you never got chance to finish. During the day, if you are lucky enough as I was, you got the chance to grab GM walk you around the village and do some story telling. Disadvantage means that if you only have limited time in Suzhou and also want to visit downtown Gardens, you will be a little bit in rush and might need to plan your stay more carefully. They do provide car pick up and drop off, but an hour for a single trip is not avoidable. Service is excellent. Homey feel at the same time respect your personal space. They don't really specify things, like time for meals and where to have them. I got up like at 10 and still got my breakfast. And I saw people sitting the yard having lunch. No one knocked my door asking my needs or bothering me with questions every time seeing me pass by. I actually appreciate that coze I hate people interrupting and don't always want to be the focus. Food is good. Clean, fresh, not too salty or oily. One thing to keep in mind is that it still gets a bit chill during night at this time of year. I guess that's why they prepare a lot of extra blankets and comforters. I used two extra comforters to warm myself up. Overall it's an amazing place. For me definitely a must go in Suzhou area if you have enough time and money.