"Many Koreans, when they visit Qingdao, stay a few nights at the Westin and save the St. Regis for their last day.
(If you’re on a short trip, I even recommend checking into the St. Regis right away.)
I followed the exact same plan, learned the same lesson, and here’s why:
1. Planning Your Route
In Qingdao, most attractions cluster around 5.4 Park. If it’s your first time here and you stay at the Westin, you’re directly connected to MIXC, the city’s largest mall.
(Tip: Use Exit E of 5.4 Park—you’ll find yourself underground and linked straight to the mall.)
The Westin is also within easy walking distance of 5.4 Park, making it perfect for catching the two‑hour light show that starts at 7 PM. From the park’s entrance, the brightest building in sight is the St. Regis. Thinking “Ah, I’ll be there on the last day” doubles your excitement. Look at that yellow tower in my first photo—just imagining being up there on Day 7 gives you butterflies.
2. Choosing Your View
The St. Regis offers three perspectives: City View, Ocean View, and Skyline View. If you’ve enjoyed the dazzling light show at 5.4 Park and want to gaze down on it, forget the rest and go straight for the Skyline View. It’s magical even with a Qingdao beer in hand, and for digital nomads like me who work from hotels, it’s pure inspiration. A breathtaking vista begets boundless creativity.
3. Staff Friendliness: ★★★★★
Many reviews praise the speedy check‑in—and it truly is fast. The staff are incredibly flexible, so if you need anything during check‑in, just ask. It’s the coolest, quickest process I’ve experienced, filled with delightful surprises.
Manager Jimmy Li goes beyond the standard room‑assignment routine, checking whether there’s anything more they can do for you. In that moment, you genuinely feel like a VIP and sense the staff’s wholehearted respect. Just like Steve Jobs’ famous “one more thing,” Jimmy Li often slips in a surprise during what would otherwise be a routine check‑in. I was instantly captivated. It may not happen every time, but if you return, you’re bound to get surprised at least once. Their flexibility with upgrades and services outshines any other hotel.
4. Room Cleanliness: ★★★★★
Korean travelers often cite cigarette odor in Chinese hotels as their biggest gripe—and I was no different. Even in non‑smoking rooms, a faint tobacco smell can linger and ruin your stay. If that’s a concern for you, stay here without hesitation. It felt as pristine as a five‑star hotel back home in Korea. The entire property is strictly non‑smoking, and they enforce it rigorously. Having opened in August 2021, every bit of hardware still gleams. Views and cleanliness this good are rare in Qingdao.
5. Nearby Attractions & Activities: ★★★★
Honestly, this place feels like a full‑blown “hotel vacation.” The Westin side offers plenty of dining and nightlife, but with that overwhelming skyline view and the chance to step down to the beachfront for a stroll, it’s unbeatable. It’s a 22‑minute walk to 5.4 Park, and you’ll find the Memorial Tower easily along the way. Many Koreans rave that after breakfast, a walk there is the perfect morning workout—and they’re right. Once you’re in the room, though, most guests don’t emerge until checkout; with Qingdao spread out below, a single day isn’t enough to take it all in. I was guilty of the same.
6. Room Facilities
a. Bathroom: The bidet lid opens and closes automatically—so convenient.
b. Butler Service: You can keep ordering lemon tea, coffee, lattes, etc. Just pick up the phone and ask.
c. Air Purifier: They use the Blueair 403 model, running continuously in suites.
d. Coffee Capsules: Two decaf and two regular capsules.
7. When You Work: ★★★★★★★★★
On a high floor, the room is as quiet as a mouse. It’s perfect for standing by the window to work or create. The space isn’t just about the view; it’s designed so you can pull out your MacBook and be productive against that incredible backdrop."
A Tripadvisor traveler review
Apr 07, 2025