Where to Stay

Xiamen's rapid ascent over the last two decades into the rarified white air of "destination superstar" can, among other things, be gauged by the influx of recently-constructed hotels now probing into its sky. Numerous lodging heavies now compete for the more than 8 million travelers that wander into Xiamen annually.

Depending on budget concerns visitors can choose a lofty five-star to what-floor-is-the-community-bathroom-on one-stars. Lodging is generally easy to find, except during major Xiamen holidays such as the Spring Festival (usually late January), the Xiamen Jimei International Dragon Boat Festival (mid June) and the Mid-Autumn Festival (usually late September or early October). Summer's busy tourist season only requires advanced reservations if a seaside hotel is desired. Because of Xiamen's resort mentality, prices vacillate wildly between winter and summer.

Xiamen's lone five-star, the Mandarin Hotel, rules the high ground for shameless pampering. Instead of the usual tower design favored by seemingly every other hotel in town, this lodge of luxury resembles a small village full of villas and pavilions. The rooms are meticulously decorated in luxuriant detail, making every guest feel as if he or she should be donning a crown and tossing silver coins to the adoring masses below. Its close proximity to the airport, downtown, and to three golf courses makes it popular with vacationers and business folk alike.

The Harbourview Hotel provides four-star splendor in a downtown setting. Xiamen's main shopping district along Zhongshan Road, with its abundance of restaurants, nightclubs and department stores, is just a short stroll from the lobby. For something less hectic opt for the Marco Polo. Located along the shores of Yuandang Lake in Xiamen's new commercial district, this four-star also rates well with both vacationers and the business community. However, the Best Western has the unique distinction of being the area's only four-star directly across the street from a Wal-Mart.

The bulk of the area's hotels enjoy three-star status and the Xiamen Plaza grades high for convenience and luxury. On-site restaurants include a poolside barbecue and the Cordon Bleu nightclub. Triskaidekaphobiacs should avoid this hotel, however, for it boasts 13 floors. Downtown's East Ocean Hotel does not receive much press, but it serves as an ideal nest for visitors preferring seaside views. Gulangyu Island can be seen from most of its rooms. The United Hotel lacks a seaside location, but nevertheless offers downtown convenience, especially to the Fushan International Exhibition Center.

As vacationer-coveted as Gulangyu Island is, it offers a surprisingly small selection of lodging options. The Gulangyu Villa Hotel stands out as its most popular offering, especially with tourists, for its out-the-backdoor beach access. Manicured gardens and shady paths surround the grounds, lending it a retreat-like atmosphere. For what it's worth, former President Dick Nixon lodged here in 1972. Or for something inexpensive snare a bed at the small Lizhi Dao Hotel. Some of the rooms lack windows, but to overcome this stuffy inconvenience just keep reminding yourself that you are only staying here because it provides immediate walking access to all of the island's charms and attractions including Sunlight Rock and the Piano Garden. The Luzhou Hotel, another inexpensive stay, rests just a few feet from the island's ferry terminal. And given the fact that there are no cars to transport luggage, this rates as a smart choice for those burdened with suitcases. Regardless of season, advanced reservations for any of the island's hotels are strongly recommended.

If Xiamen's many attractions and geographic amenities have no bearing on lodging decisions consider the International Hotel. Directly adjacent to the Gaoqi International Airport it provides quick access to exiting flights. A gorgeous glass lobby keeps travelers informed with all of the latest arrival and departure information.