Towering luxury: Westin Hotel Xiamen.

Where to stay

Le Meridien Xiamen is tucked away on a hillside green with bamboo and fruit trees. In spring, there is a marvelous show of seasonal blooms, and in summer there are plenty of shady paths to take a nice stroll around the hotel, hand in hand.

For even more privacy, book a self-contained Le Meridien villa that will give you and your loved one plenty of solitude. We were told many celebrities have taken advantage of the seclusion to have a well-earned rest away from prying public and paparazzi.

The main building features a very cool central water feature in its atrium garden with a manmade waterfall. There are also lots of more natural corners to explore around the complex, thanks to an owner who had the foresight to buy the whole hillside.

Le Meridien Xiamen, 7 Guanjun Road, Nanshan, Xiamen 廈門南山冠軍路7號

Tel: 592- 770-9999

If you prefer a more urban environment, choose the Westin Xiamen, located not more than 10 minutes away from all the major attractions. It is already a favorite for Shanghai auto companies, many of which host their sales conventions and retreats here.

It is a hotel that gives really good value for the standard of food and services you get. For me, the main attraction is still very much its strategic location. In the evenings, you can walk out to a large square where you can join the locals taking the breeze or indulging in some public square dancing. There is also a mall with supermarkets and fast food outlets just nearby.