Hotel Nikko Changshu

This is my default hotel when visiting changshu. Just a little more expensive than some of the other mid-range chinese ones like sifeng, but nearly matching the quality of the massively overpriced western ones. The location is perfect: next to little back streets, the main drag, the new kinda trendy area with all the new bars & coffee shops, starbucks, shopping, and tons of restaurants. I do worry that it is showing its age, and needs to be cleaned a little bit (especially the common areas), but it's still holding up well. 5 years ago I would have said it was the equal to the kinggrace except for the pomp and circumstance, but it's fallen a notch since then, so 4 of 5. Still, I will be staying there again when I go next week. - Tell the drive "fang ta jie, mei hao jiu dian" or "parkson". No one knows the place is called "Mandarin" hotel. I think it's on the sign, but thats it. - Front desk staff doesn't really speak english, but they know their job and they do try - Don't bother with breakfast, its bad. I never eat hotel breakfasts, so no problem there - Internet is good - They have rooms with a separated living room / bedroom. Same price - Some street noise if you are on the road side, but thats gone by 9pm or so