Warm service, modern comfort, and a breathtaking breakfast view
I was warmly welcomed at Jolie Vue Boutique Hotel in Guilin — my luggage was immediately taken off my hands and brought to the room without having to ask, and check-in was both smooth and courteous. Compared to other properties I’ve stayed at recently, the staff here showed genuine friendliness, offering smiles and warmth that immediately set a positive tone.
The hotel itself has a boutique feel, not extravagant, but tastefully designed. The lobby is modest yet elegant, and the corridors — softly lit with indirect lighting — create a pleasantly contemporary atmosphere that extends into the rooms. My room was spacious and well-appointed, with a large bed, seating area, and a clean modern aesthetic. Though I wouldn’t call the design “classic”, it strikes a comfortable modern note, enhanced by thoughtful layout and good materials.
My only disappointment was the room allocation: I had been given a room on the second floor, whereas I typically prefer upper floors for better light and outlook. The view from my window was compromised by an architectural overhang that created a kind of inner courtyard tunnel — technically bright enough during the day, but certainly not what one might hope for when staying in a city renowned for its scenic views. While it wasn’t a dealbreaker for a single night, I would not have accepted this room for a longer stay. It’s worth noting that other hotels on this trip had honoured my request for a higher floor, so I’m unsure whether it wasn’t passed on by my agency or simply overlooked.
The breakfast was served on the seventh floor, in a restaurant that truly does justice to the hotel’s name: the view is stunning. Overlooking the Li River and the iconic Guilin karst hills, it creates a dining atmosphere that’s genuinely memorable. The restaurant staff were, once again, warm and accommodating.
As for the breakfast itself — there was plenty on offer. A selection of noodles, salads, sweetcorn, and other hot items formed the buffet base, though it leaned heavily towards meat and seafood. This was the one area that disappointed me as a vegetarian: both vegetable dishes were mixed with either shrimp or meat, which felt unnecessary and could have been easily avoided by keeping the vegetables separate. That said, I was delighted to find proper fresh bread (including wholegrain options), goji berries, and walnuts for the muesli — not a given in many hotels and much appreciated.
The room’s cleanliness and overall condition were very good. The black marble bathroom was striking, with a separate shower and a deep bathtub, and everything was in good working order. Slippers and amenities were neatly arranged, and the space felt thoughtfully maintained.
In sum, this was a satisfying stay. The room, while not ideally located, was stylish and well-equipped. The staff’s friendliness was a particular highlight, and the breakfast room alone makes the experience worth considering — especially if you can secure a room on a higher floor with a view to match.