Guilin's BEST Hotel? Borrman Hotel Review (Near High-Speed Rail!)
Borrman Hotel, Guilin: Is This REALLY the BEST? My Unfiltered Take (Near That Speedy Rail!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I’m about to spill the tea on the Borrman Hotel in Guilin. You know, the one everyone claims is the best? Let's see if it lives up to the hype, especially with that conveniently located high-speed rail practically at its doorstep. Forget the polished brochure, this is real talk.
First Impressions & Accessibility: Not Always Smooth Sailing (But Mostly Pretty Good!)
Getting there from the Guilin North High-Speed Rail station? Easy peasy. Seriously. The convenience factor is HUGE. You practically roll out of the train and into the hotel lobby. Accessibility-wise, it's a mixed bag. The lobby itself is spacious, which is great for wheelchairs or anyone with mobility issues. Elevators? Check. Ramps? Check. But, and there's always a but, navigating the hallways to some rooms felt a little cramped. My friend, bless her heart, uses a walker, and there were a few tight squeezes. However, the staff were incredibly helpful, always willing to assist. Accessibility Score: 7/10. They try!
The Room (and the Wi-Fi!) – My Personal Fortress
Let's talk about the room. I snagged a "superior" room (or whatever they call them). It was… good. Not mind-blowingly amazing, but perfectly comfortable. Air conditioning? Absolutely. Blackout curtains? Yes, and thank GOD for them, I'm a light sleeper!! The bed? A decent, sleep-inducing expanse, although not the cloud-like experience I'm used to. Free Wi-Fi in the room? Duh, it's Borrman! And the internet speed was… acceptable. Enough to binge-watch Tiger King (again, don't judge me) and catch up on emails. Internet access – LAN? There was a port, but honestly, who uses those anymore? The bathroom was clean, with a decent shower, toiletries and even a bathtub. A nice touch, although I didn't have time for a soak. On-demand movies? Sure but I had already loaded my own movies
Cleanliness & Safety – Feeling Safe, But…
Okay, this is where Borrman really shines. During my stay, the world was still dealing with… ahem… certain health concerns. Borrman clearly takes hygiene seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products? I assume so, they didn't openly advertise it… but everything felt extra clean. Daily disinfection in common areas? Yes. Staff trained in safety protocol? DEFINITELY. All the things you'd hope a nice (and modern) hotel has. Hand sanitizer dispensers were practically everywhere! Rooms sanitized between stays? I had no doubt. It felt fresh. I felt very safe. This is a big plus.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking – A Culinary Adventure (or Mostly Okay…)
Let's get real. Hotel food is often… well, you know. Borrman’s efforts were actually pretty decent. Breakfast buffet? Yeah, and it was decent! Asian breakfast? Definitely! I'm a sucker for a good congee (rice porridge). Western breakfast? Also present, with eggs, bacon and all that jazz. I wasn't blown away, but I wasn't disappointed either. Coffee shop? Yes, and decent enough for a morning caffeine fix. Dinner at the main restaurant was… a mixed bag. Asian cuisine? Available. Western cuisine? Also there, if you crave a burger. But I'm in China! I had a wonderfully flavorsome mapo tofu and my travel companion ordered pasta that was not as good, but as always, it depends. 24-hour room service? Bless them!
Things to Do, Ways to Relax – Spa Day, Anyone? (I wish!)
Okay, this is where I felt like I missed out. The Borrman Hotel boasts a lot of amenities. Swimming pool? YES. But the weather was not my friend and it was underused. Pool with view? Probably, but again, the weather. Fitness center? Sure, but I was too lazy. Spa/sauna? Yep! But, time constraints and general travel exhaustion meant I didn't get to experience any of it. Body scrub, body wrap, massage…? Woe is me! I did, however, wander through the spa area, which looked lovely. Next time, Borrman, NEXT TIME.
Services & Conveniences – Smooth… Usually
This hotel covers the basics. Concierge? Helpful. Daily housekeeping? Spot on. Laundry service? A lifesaver after trekking around the Longsheng Rice Terraces! Currency exchange? Handy. Doorman? Always there to hail a cab. I appreciate the efficiency, but I have to say, the small details really make the difference here: Invoice provided? Yes. Gift/souvenir shop? Had to be quick!
For the Kids & Getting Around – Family-Friendly? Yes!!
While I wasn’t traveling with kids, I noted that family/child friendly? Yes! Kids are welcome. Babysitting service? Available. Indoor venue for special events? Yes, if you’re planning a kids party!
Getting Around I did use the Airport transfer service, and it was seamless. Car park [free of charge]? Yes, that was convenient. Taxi Service? Plenty outside.
The Quirks – What Made it Unique and a Little Imperfect
- The Little Things: The room had an umbrella, which was essential given the weather, and free toiletries. The staff always greeted with a smile.
- The Perfect Moment: There was a small shrine in the lobby.
- The Minor Annoyance: There were a couple of language barriers with the staff at the restaurant, but Google Translate helped immensely.
- The Funny Observation: The elevator music was relentlessly cheerful. I swear, it made me want to break out in a spontaneous dance.
The Verdict: Is the Borrman Hotel Really the BEST?
It’s damn good. It’s not perfect. It’s human. It’s comfortable, clean, convenient, and the staff are lovely. For me, the accessibility and the proximity to the high-speed rail are huge wins. I’d definitely stay there again.
The Offer: Unleash Your Inner Explorer with Borrman Hotel & Guilin!
Tired of generic hotel experiences? Craving authentic travel and unparalleled convenience? Book your stay at the Borrman Hotel in Guilin now for an unforgettable adventure!
Here's what you get:
- Unbeatable Access: Literally steps from the Guilin North High-Speed Rail station. Say goodbye to long transfers and hello to stress-free exploring!
- Immaculate Comfort: Relax in a clean, well-appointed room designed for your comfort.
- Peace of Mind: Enjoy a hotel that prioritizes your safety and well-being with rigorous cleaning protocols and trained staff.
- Authentic Flavors: Savor delicious Asian and Western cuisine at our onsite restaurants.
- Unwind and Recharge: Take advantage of our spa (I highly recommend it next time!) and pool.
- Special Offer Include a discount during your stay!
Don't miss out!
Book your Guilin getaway at the Borrman Hotel today and experience the best of Guilin, all at your doorstep!
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Okay, strap in, buttercups. This is not your sanitized, perfectly-packaged travel itinerary. This is a hot mess of a plan, fueled by caffeine and the faint hope I haven't forgotten my passport. We're talking Borrman Hotel Guilin High-speed Railway North Station Evergrande Plaza China… and everything in between. Honestly, just the name makes my brain itch. Here we go:
Day 1: Arrival and the "Lost in Translation" Tango
- Morning (because I'm never a morning person): Arrive at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (KWL). Assuming I haven't accidentally booked a flight to, say, Iceland, which I've done before. Pray the visa situation is sorted. Land, stumble out looking like a bewildered panda, and navigate the chaos. Seriously, Chinese airports are a symphony of noise and people. Find the transfer to the Borrman Hotel, ideally without bursting into tears of frustration. The official transfer? Probably smooth and efficient. Me? Expect a taxi driver who only speaks Mandarin, a frantic pointing session, and the distinct feeling I'm being taken for a ride… literally.
- Afternoon: Check into the Borrman Hotel Guilin High-speed Railway North Station Evergrande Plaza China. Say that five times fast! Pray the room isn't in the basement with questionable air conditioning. Unpack. Marvel at the sheer existence of my own suitcase (a small victory). Try to figure out this whole "power adapter" situation. I swear, every country has its own evil plug.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: The Evergrande Plaza – A Shopping Paradise (or Hell?) Okay, here's where things get interesting. Supposedly, the Evergrande Plaza is a "shopping paradise." I've got a feeling this will either be a glorious immersion into local culture, or a sensory overload of epic proportions. Aim: Sample some local snacks, buy some ridiculously cheap souvenirs (I'm already picturing a plastic panda wearing a tiny Mao suit…), and not buy anything I regret. The challenge? Avoiding the persistent sales pitches and the urge to buy all the things. Probably take a walk around to just kind of… absorb it. Maybe grab some bubble tea and people-watch. The observations will be gold, trust me.
- Evening: Dinner. Finding a place to eat will be a total gamble. Hoping the hotel has some sort of recommendation, or I'm trusting Google Translate and my questionable hand gestures. This has the potential to be a culinary adventure – or a near-disastrous interaction involving spicy food and my sensitive Western palate. Pray for something delicious and understandable. Maybe try some local noodles. Afterwards, crash in bed. Jet lag is my sworn enemy.
Day 2: The Li River and Bamboo Rafts (or is that just wishful thinking?)
- Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. Hopefully, it's not just cold eggs and congee (rice porridge). I need sustenance for what promises to be a day of postcard-perfect scenery. Head to the Li River. I'm envisioning a leisurely cruise, gliding through stunning karst landscapes, feeling like I've stepped into a Chinese painting. The reality? Probably a slightly crowded boat, jostling for the best photo op, and a healthy dose of sunscreen application. The worst part? I'm convinced I'll get seasick.
- Afternoon: The Big Bamboo Raft Adventure (Maybe): There's a chance I'll try the bamboo raft thing. That's just a fantasy, though. No. I'll be on the tourist boat. Too much effort for a bamboo raft. I mean, I'm not completely against the idea, but… Ugh. I'll want to do that. I can almost hear the water, see the sun. Okay. But the boat first.
- Late Afternoon: The Art of Disappointment: After the river, it's either back to the hotel to rest, or an attempt to find some local artisan shops… depending on my stamina, which is dwindling fast. I am not sure what I'll be feeling, honestly. Probably tired. Disappointed that it didn't look more like the pictures somehow, maybe a little bit… enchanted.
- Evening: Dinner and some light exploration. Maybe I'll find a quiet place to drink tea. Who am a kidding? Absolutely. Probably drink too much Maotai and try to sing karaoke (badly). Because, vacation. The best.
Day 3: Caves, More Caves, and the Realization I'm Running Out of Clean Underwear
- Morning: Visit Reed Flute Cave. Supposedly, it's this incredible underground wonderland of stalactites and stalagmites. Prepare for a sensory overload of glistening rock formations and a feeling like I'm in a sci-fi movie. I may or may not hum the Indiana Jones theme tune.
- Afternoon: Seven Star Park: Hopefully, a relaxing wander through the park. Some pretty scenery, maybe climb a small hill. Probably take way too many photos of rocks. Then, rest. Rest is super important.
- Evening: Packing. This is actually important.
- Dinner: Whatever, maybe some more noodles.
- Night: Train. No. The north station.
Day 4: Departure and the Post-Travel Blues (or Just the Realization I Need a Vacation From My Vacation)
- Morning: One last breakfast. One last frantic luggage-packing session. One last attempt to use up all the remaining yuan. Train station madness.
- Afternoon: The high-speed railway. I hope I can sleep.
- Departure: Bye, Guilin! It's been a confusing, wonderful, and slightly exhausting experience. The real adventure is: Getting home without losing my mind (or my passport).
Observations/Ramblings:
- Food: The food will be my friend and my foe. I anticipate moments of pure culinary bliss and moments where I weep silently into my bowl of spicy something.
- Language Barrier: Expect a lot of pointing, smiling, and the occasional desperate plea in half-baked Mandarin.
- People: I'm expecting to be utterly charmed by the people. They will be patient with my tourist antics. Hopefully.
- Shopping: I will buy something I regret. It's inevitable. Probably something tacky.
- Photos: I will take a million photos. My phone will die. I won't regret it.
- Emotional State: I bet I come back more in tune with my emotional state.
- Overall: I have high hopes. And a healthy dose of realism that this will be imperfect, messy, and utterly unforgettable. I will feel both utterly exhausted, and completely in love with it all at the same time.
This is my itinerary, and I'm sticking to it… sort of. Wish me luck.
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Okay, so, is the Borrman Hotel *actually* good? Like, really? (And does it REALLY matter if it's near the train station?)
Alright, let's get this straight: yes, the Borrman Hotel is pretty damn good. But hold your horses, hype-mongers! It's not perfection. My own experience had its ups and downs, like a rollercoaster fueled by too much Guilin rice noodles (more on those later!).
The proximity to the high-speed rail? LIFE. SAVER. Seriously. After a death-defying taxi ride through Guilin traffic (which feels like a Mad Max movie, honestly), stumbling out of the train station and into the hotel? Pure bliss. No wrestling luggage across a city. Just, boom, door to bed. Worth its weight in gold, especially if you're, you know, *me* after a long journey.
But let's talk about the "good" part: the rooms. Clean, spacious enough, and the air conditioning? Glorious. I mean, I walked into that arctic blast and just thought, "Ah, *this* is why I travel." The bed was comfy, though I did have to wrestle with the duvet cover on the first night. (Don’t judge, I haven’t mastered the art of duvet insertion.)
Consider it a good starting point for your Guilin adventure!
What about the breakfast? Is it the usual, 'meh' hotel buffet?
Okay, the breakfast...that's where things get *interesting*. Look, hotel buffets are rarely Michelin-star material. But, the Borrman buffet had a decent selection. The usual suspects: eggs (cooked who-knows-how-long-ago), some questionable sausages, and a continental spread.
But then! Then there was the *good* stuff: the fresh fruit (OMG, the mango!), and some seriously delicious Guilin rice noodles. Seriously, I think I had three bowls one morning. My stomach thanked me later. Okay, maybe not *later*. Maybe the next *day*. Let's just say, "digestive issues" and leave it at that. But those noodles? Worth the risk!
Pro-tip: Don't expect a five-star culinary experience. Manage your expectations, grab some noodles when you see them, and you’ll be fine. Also, be prepared for the potential of a very noisy dining experience at breakfast because everyone in the hotel is there at the same time as you!
The reviews mention "great service." Is that true? Were you treated like royalty?
Service...Ah, the service. Okay, the staff at the Borrman are, for the most part, lovely. They're friendly, helpful, and try their best to accommodate. Did I get treated like royalty? Nah. Did I get treated with respect and courtesy? Absolutely.
There was that one time...Okay, I was trying to check out early, and my Mandarin skills are... rudimentary, shall we say. So, the conversation involved a lot of frantic pointing, charades, and the increasingly desperate use of Google Translate. Bless their hearts, the reception staff patiently helped me sort things out. In the end, all was well. So, while it might not be Buckingham Palace levels of pampering, the service is consistently good.
Also, they had a luggage storage service. Super useful. Thank you Borrman!
Okay, spill the tea! What's the *worst* thing about the Borrman? Be honest!
Alright, alright, fine. The *worst* thing... Hmm. Okay, here’s the truth: it's not a five-star hotel pretending to be something it isn’t. It’s a solid, decent hotel that knows its purpose. But... the walls might not be the thickest in the world.
I did hear the occasional…activity… from the other rooms. Let's just say, if you're a super light sleeper, bring earplugs. And maybe a white noise machine. Or, you know, embrace the sound of other people enjoying their vacation. (Just kidding…mostly.)
Also, finding your way around the hotel can be a bit of an adventure. It's not *huge*, but the corridors can be a tad labyrinthine. I got lost at least twice. Which, if you know me, is pretty standard. (I once got lost in my own apartment complex. True story.)
Would you stay there again? Be brutally honest.
Absolutely. Without a doubt. Despite the whispers from the walls, the occasionally questionable sausages, and my personal navigational challenges, I would 100% stay at the Borrman Hotel again. Why?
Because it’s clean, convenient, the staff are great, and it's a perfect base for exploring Guilin. The location is a huge win, and the price is right. It’s not perfect, but it's honest. And sometimes, honest is exactly what you need.
Plus, I still dream of those mangoes. And the rice noodles. Seriously, those things are addictive.
Beyond the hotel, what else should I know about Guilin? (And is it REALLY as stunning as the photos?)
Guilin… oh, Guilin. Is it stunning? Yes. Absolutely. The Li River? Jaw-droppingly beautiful. The karst mountains? Like something out of a fantasy movie. The rice terraces? Unreal!
But listen: don't just rely on the photos. Get out there and *experience* it. Take a Li River cruise (splurge for the nicer ones – you won't regret it). Go hiking. Eat everything. Seriously, even the street food is amazing. Try the local beer (Li River beer, duh!). And be prepared to be amazed.
Also, learn a few basic Mandarin phrases. It'll make your life *so* much easier, and the locals will appreciate the effort. Even if, like me, your pronunciation is atrocious.
Guilin is magic. Go. And have the trip of a lifetime.
