Spas + Treatments Regalia Resort & Spa, Suzhou, China

I want to alert readers to a fabulous boutique spa resort at Suzhou (two hours drive west of Shanghai). Regalia Resort & Spa is one of just five SLH properties in China. I spent last weekend there; indulging in exquisite Thai food (courtesy of Shanghai's Simply Life Group) and a luxurious aromatic massage (courtesy of Thai Privilege Spa). Highly recommended.

Actually Suzhou has really come of age. I first went there in 02 and it has completely transformed/modernised itself since then. There appears to be a lot of wealth in Suzhou. The gardens, landscape and street architecture is immaculate. There are some interesting buildings such as the I.M. Pei -designed Suzhou Museum. Personally I'd recommend two full days maximum. Or stop by on your way from Shanghai to Nanjing. Always hire a private car and driver. 90 euros can get you a latest model Buick people mover which seats up to six passengers very comfortably. Don't forget to take your own CDs!