Lakes and Mountains: A Slice of Heaven in the City

I visit Suzhou for photography two or three times a month, and this time I was lucky to join the Ctrip Weekend Travel official WeChat account's 'Weekend Travel Experience Officer' event. The arrangement was a stay at the InterContinental Suzhou. The hotel's location overlooks Jinji Lake, with half of Suzhou City right beneath your feet. When I checked in at the lobby around noon, the front desk guy was quite enthusiastic. Probably noticing my tripod, he started chatting with me about the weather and air clarity—his broad knowledge really stood out; kudos to him. As a photographer, I'll share the experience through a series of photos, feeling the vibe of this getaway.

Let me start with a few of my favorite angles and times. Doesn't this one have a garden-like artistic feel? Mm, I was just processing the picture when all of a sudden I felt the light was so soft... so pleasant...

As sunset approached, I suddenly saw the sun over there. The curtains are electric; opening them revealed this view—truly comfortable, warm and sunny.

A streak of setting sun spreads across the water, half the lake shimmering, half blushing red. Snapped from the room, it's really soothing.

Entering the hotel and pulling back the curtain, I saw this lovely scene—the hot air balloon looked so intriguing.

After checking in, pushing open the door, I was immediately captivated by the play of light and shadow. Modern materials in the layout, but I've always loved the elegance of wood, and combined with the free-spirited sunshine, it felt extraordinarily cozy.

The room was spacious and offered good service. What I liked most was the desk—perfect with my laptop to organize photos.

This big sofa couldn't be more comfortable. Lying in a room on the 23rd floor, looking out through the floor-to-ceiling windows at the view outside, reading a book... perfect for a relaxing vacation.

I quickly set up my laptop to start sorting through the morning's shots.

Now the sunlight has softened a bit; doesn't the outside look so inviting?

The toiletries in the hotel were decent, and the men's razor was also good.

At first glance, I fell for this bathtub—tonight I can really indulge.

I pulled back the curtains; the view outside became even more delightful.

Just as I finished editing a photo, room service brought a welcome fruit platter. I ate a few before remembering to snap a picture... haha

The hotel even provides such a vintage alarm clock—nice touch.

Standard in a five-star hotel: they offered a sleep robe, though it was a bit revealing. If a pretty woman wore it, it'd probably be quite seductive.

The lights were nice—perfect for using the razor or for a woman's makeup.

Things like an ironing board and iron were there too, seemingly a given.

They even provided a gas mask...

This piece looks really retro, with a music-on-demand function... you can also stream movies for free...

The hotel provided two complimentary bottles of water, though the kettle wasn't the most aesthetically pleasing.

Look at the height—we're even higher than the Ferris wheel...

With time to spare, I strolled around the lobby. The slanting sunset shone through, giving it that typical modern hotel vibe.

Just a few steps outside the hotel and you're at the lake. Despite a bit of haze, it couldn't hide the beauty.

I wandered until dark, then returned to the hotel. All the lights were on, making the atmosphere much more agreeable.

Not too many people; there were relaxing spots like this everywhere—quite human-centric.

The front desk was immediately visible from the elevator, and the reflections were stunning.

Seeing the sun setting, I prepared to go out and capture some night scenes.

I went up, grabbed my tripod, and took a few night shots. Here's the full view of the hotel building—Jinji Lake right behind it.

The distant 'Big Pants' building looked cute, though alas, still unfinished.

Right next to the hotel is the Ferris wheel, its lights dyeing the lake surface crimson.

Back for a bath...

I searched for ages but couldn't find the light switch—turns out it was under the TV... Called for a staff member, and someone came within two minutes... response was quite quick.

After the bath, I drifted into a deep sleep...

Waking up in the morning, the first glance out the window startled me—that hot air balloon was actually floating...

Down to the ground floor for breakfast...

I asked an auntie to make a bowl of noodles... Ready in five minutes, and it tasted good...

The food choices were plentiful.

I felt a bit dazed, not knowing what to pick...

Though there was a lot of meat, I couldn't eat any more, so I filled up on fruit...

A panoramic view of the restaurant... around the corner there was even more... the environment felt so comfortable...

The chef looked quite shy; when I took a photo, he turned away.

The fruit station was my favorite—I ate loads...

Finally, a big thank you to Ctrip for this weekend getaway experience. If you're interested, join me in the 'Ctrip Weekend Travel' experience officer program! Just scan the QR code below to follow Ctrip Weekend Travel's travelogues. Food, drink, and lodging are all free!! A huge perk!!