The day is almost done here in Shanghai. As I write this from my hotel, Le Royal Méridien Shanghai, I can see the iconic skyline of The Bund lit up like Times Square—as it might look in 50 years with its futuristic skyscrapers.
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My living quarters in Shanghai. Just kidding, it’s the Presidential Suite at Le Royal Méridien Shanghai.
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The sky is still very hazy, even at night. During the day, I couldn’t see more than a half mile away to other buildings, which also serves to mask the immensity of this metropolis.
What brings me to Shanghai?
Aside from it being a destination in its own right, my trip is planned around the finale of the Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide executive relocation to China during the past month. On Monday, Frits van Paasschen, CEO, and others will provide feedback about their month abroad—living and working in what most international hotel companies label as the hottest market for growth.
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| A hazy view of The Bund skyline from my hotel, Le Royal Méridien Shanghai. |
This afternoon (Shanghai is 12 hours ahead of the East Coast in the United States) I took a tour of the 66-story and 761-room Le Royal Méridien where I’ll be staying for the next seven days, and I’ll be sharing that experience in a blog for Monday. The people working at this hotel, which number in the range of 700 to 800 employees, have already made for a pleasant experience. They take great pride in service and generosity. I’ve been in the city less than 12 hours, but already the character of Shanghai and its people is apparent.
In the meantime, consider this the official kick-off blog of my Shanghai hotel adventure. I hope to provide quick updates during my excursions, and you’ll also see interviews from Van Paasschen and local Starwood management executives within the next week or two.
I’m also planning to visit some of the iconic hotels on The Bund while I’m here, which should provide some interesting blog content. Stay tuned!