THE French hospitality giant Accor announced the opening of its 700th hotel in China on Monday. The opening of the Sofitel Shanghai North Bund coincides with the 60th anniversary of the brand’s establishment and the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, which celebrates the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two nations. Sofitel hotels across China, including the new hotel in Shanghai, are lighting up with French-Chinese celebrations and festivities throughout the year. Situated in the vibrant North Bund area, the Sofitel Shanghai North Bund has 315 guest rooms and suites that blend Shanghai style with French elegance. The interior design features traditional Chinese colors like green and bright yellow, adorned with art deco motifs and linear patterns reminiscent of old Shanghai vibes and chic Parisian flair. Guests in river-facing rooms are treated to sweeping vistas of Suzhou Creek, the historic 1933 Old Millfun cultural precinct, and the iconic skyline of the North Bund. The hotel features three restaurants — L’Orchestre, Hui, and Lechanteur. Accor aims to unveil 103 new hotels by year end, offering around 14,700 new guest rooms. Next year, the group is set to introduce two hotel brands to China — the European aparthotel brand Adagio and Tribe Nation, which caters to a new generation of Gen Zers with a new urban lifestyle concept. (Tang Li) | 