The hotel is located in the historic Gusu District (All photos: Marriott)
Known as the Venice of the East, Suzhou, China is an ancient water town filled with elegant waterways, quaint alleyways and peaceful pavilions. The new design-driven AC Hotel by Marriott Suzhou lets you explore this breathtaking destination while based out of a hotel that truly feels like a home away from home.
It combines the highest hospitality standards with a location that’s second to none: the heart of the city’s historic Gusu District, home to a rich cultural legacy best exemplified by its classical gardens inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List.
Adding a serene and minimalist touch to the hotel, the exterior design takes its cue from traditional Suzhou architecture with its use of whitewashed walls, dark grey clay tile roofs and geometrical folds. As for the interior design, a careful blend of contemporary and traditional elements allows for an authentic yet modern style.
The hotel has 135 guest rooms and suites, including five garden rooms featuring a private outdoor garden. Drawing inspiration from Suzhou’s classical gardens, silk paintings inspired by the ancient city map adorn the sleek and modern guest rooms, creating an elegant and harmonious ambience. Naturally, creature comforts like a 55in high-definition LCD television, walk-in shower and high-speed Wi-Fi are a given.
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The hotel features a range of collaborative spaces, including the AC Kitchen, an all-day dining restaurant offering various buffet options that pay tribute to the hotel chain’s Spanish roots and an extensive à la carte menu serving local delicacies and Spanish-inspired dishes.
The signature AC Lounge with an outdoor terrace is an ideal place for guests to enjoy al fresco dining, relax or work during the day. By night, the comfortable and elegant space transforms into a bustling bar, allowing guests to unwind and socialise over locally sourced beers, wines and cocktails infused with Jiangnan ingredients, highlighting the signature AC Gin Tonic experience.
With China’s borders finally opening up after three long years and restrictions eased for visitors, Suzhou is well within reach.
This article first appeared on Jan 9, 2023 in The Edge Malaysia,
