Hanting Express (Chengde Kuancheng Shenli Branch)

This hotel is actually a Hanting All Seasons and not a Hanting Express. In terms of Chinese standards, this is a 4 star hotel. It was very convenient for us as we were visiting the chestnut factory next door, otherwise, it's kind of in the middle of nowhere. Pros: 1) Very new hotel, everything is spotless and clean. 2) Large comfy bed and soft pillows. 3) Shower provides the option of hand held shower or overhead rain shower. There's also a dispenser in the shower for shampoo and bodywash and provision of toothbrush and slippers. 4) Provision of free mineral water and chestnuts in the room. 5) Provision of free wifi throughout the hotel. 6) Room was large and there was space for a work table and a small couch. 7) Television in room had Chinese cable TV, useful if you understand Chinese. 8) A small spread of Chinese breakfast items in the morning including fruits, jiaozi, baozi, fried rice, fried noodles, fried eggs, hard boiled eggs, toast, porridge. 9) Air conditioning can be adjusted to blow warm air, helpful at this time of the year. Cons: 1) Nothing much else to do in the area. 2) There was the sound of bubbling water all night. Would have affected a light sleeper. This is the first time I've stayed in a Hanting All Seasons and I'm seriously impressed with the standards. It cannot be compared to international chains, but basing on my experience with Chinese hotels, this is actually very, very good. If I had to come back to visit the company next door, I would come back here. Otherwise, there's no reason for me to come back as there's nothing to do around there.