Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Look for apartments with cross-lighting for better natural light in your apartment, which is a rare feature in China. This ensures a brighter and more comfortable living space. (2:07)
- Tip 2Having access to open air in your bedroom can greatly enhance your living experience. It allows for better ventilation and a more refreshing atmosphere. (2:33)
- Tip 3If you're moving to a new place, make a list of things you missed from your home country. This will help you choose an apartment that suits your needs and preferences. (3:12)
- Tip 4An island in your kitchen can be a great addition to your living space. It provides extra counter space and can be used for food preparation and serving. (3:30)
- Tip 5Use WeChat to stay connected with your residence concierge. This will help you get assistance with various needs and stay updated on local events. (4:08)
- Tip 6If you're traveling during peak COVID times, it's important to check the local regulations and restrictions regarding visitors and travel. Be prepared for potential limitations. (7:42)
- Tip 7When choosing a place to live in China, consider your budget and preferences. Luxury hotels might be costly, while apartments offer more flexibility and personalization. (8:24)
- Tip 8If you're visiting Tianjin, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Ritz-Carlton. It's a beautiful building and a great place to enjoy a meal or take photos. (9:41)
John Thomas Abroad reveals his year-long secret: living in the Ritz-Carlton Residences in Tianjin, China! This unique experience offered incredible service, from daily housekeeping to a dedicated concierge. But, life in a luxury hotel wasn't without its quirks. John shares both the luxurious perks and unexpected challenges of this once-in-a-lifetime stay, making for a captivating and insightful travel story.
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In this video, John Thomas Abroad shares his experience of living in the Ritz-Carlton Residences in Tianjin, China, for over a year. He candidly discusses both the positive and negative aspects of residing in a luxury hotel. The luxurious amenities, including daily housekeeping, a dedicated concierge, and top-notch service, are highlighted. The concierge, accessible via WeChat, proved invaluable for assistance with various needs. The apartment itself is described in detail, showcasing its modern features, including a spacious layout, cross-lighting, and a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher—a rare find in his previous Chinese apartments. He particularly appreciated the dryer, a welcome addition after missing it from the US.
However, John also shares the challenges of living in a service-oriented hotel environment. The daily cleaning service, while appreciated in some ways, was unpredictable and occasionally intrusive. He recounts instances of unexpected cleaning visits during private moments, highlighting the need for clear communication and boundaries. Furthermore, during the peak of Covid, restrictions on visitors and the need to register guests created a sense of confinement and limitation on his personal freedom. He also mentions the difficulty in personalizing the space, as it initially came with pre-existing decor that didn't reflect his style. Despite these inconveniences, he emphasizes the overall convenience and exceptional service provided by the Ritz-Carlton.
John's experience provides a unique perspective on luxury living in China, highlighting the trade-offs between convenience and personal autonomy. He concludes by recommending the Ritz-Carlton Tianjin for a meal or visit, emphasizing its beauty and the unique atmosphere created by frequent wedding and engagement photoshoots. He also encourages viewers to seek out apartments for long-term stays in China rather than luxury hotels unless in a tight spot, noting the significant cost involved. The video offers a balanced and entertaining account of an unusual living situation, providing valuable insights into life in a luxury hotel in China.