A Dragon-Proud-Sky style legend of Eastern aesthetics, the Alila Hotel in Wuzhen

The Alila brand within China has indeed faced a tumultuous fate. Due to its own high demands for natural surroundings in its location choices, it has experienced several ups and downs. Currently, only the Wuzhen location remains in operation, making it particularly precious. With the Hyatt Group's points adjustment this year, the C4 vouchers have found their best destination, and it is expected that for a considerable time to come, this place will continue to be extremely popular. The Alila Wuzhen is based on the blueprint of an ancient Jiangnan village, creating an unprecedented dreamlike water town. Here, the rivers crisscross neatly, and every household lives by the water. Yet, it radically discards traditional Chinese decorations such as wood and brick carvings, retaining only the architectural framework of sloping roofs and the ink tones of white walls and black tiles. Then, with simplified and sharp lines, it artistically depicts the charm of the misty rain in Jiangnan. Utilizing plants, light and shadow, water systems, and alleys, it completes this secluded garden haven in perfect harmony. Unfortunately, the aesthetic of the public areas does not extend into the private spaces. Upon entering the guest rooms, the wow factor is lost. Although it also features various compositions of straight angles and minimalist decoration in Morandi colors, discarding excessive adornments, for some reason, the ambiance is no longer austere or aloof. Whether it's the landscape construction of the gardens at the front and back or the play of light and shadow outside the window by the bathtub, there are shadows of other places. It's like an old joke in a stand-up comedy, not amusing and somewhat awkward. The fitness center and pool are mediocre in appearance at night, still sharp and angular, with a stark white floor-to-ceiling design, but the visual effect is quite oppressive. It feels as if the budget was insufficient at this point, and the finish was hurried and makeshift. The breakfast at the Shuichikou Restaurant is slightly inferior to the restaurant's own aesthetic value, but the greenery and misty rain outside the window are indeed more precious. The breakfast adopts the combination of a la carte and buffet commonly used in resort hotels. The a la carte selection is not extensive, featuring local specialties such as lamb noodles and small wontons. The buffet is similar to that of regular five-star hotels, without many highlights. Perhaps due to the recent good business, even regular customers can hardly experience any value-added services. There are no phone greetings in advance, and upon arrival, the front desk is often staffed by new and flustered employees, with no introduction to the hotel's facilities, leaving guests to explore on their own. Room arrangements are made for check-in after six o'clock, with no explanation for guests arriving during normal hours. And so on. In conclusion, it is recommended to visit on non-holidays. Room-related information: Room number: 341 Official name: Garden Villa Area: 78 square meters Mattress: King Koil TV: Samsung Bluetooth speaker: Bose Shower and metal fittings: TOTO Toilet: Electric TOTO Hairdryer: Cetis Amenities: Small bottle Alila Essence Electric kettle: Cetis Coffee machine: Nespresso Coffee capsules: Nespresso 3 capsules Tea bags: TWG Bottled water: Baishishan Mini bar: Free