I was recently at the Sofitel Forebase Chongqing on an extended business stay (2 weeks), and this hotel exemplifies the problems the Chinese service and hotel industry will face as it tries to catch up to worldwide standards.
Firstly, in China, an excessive number of hotels are awarded 5-star status, but many times, these properties are merely given these certificates because a multi-national hotel group has licensed its name to the hotel. This is the case with the Sofitel Chongqing, as it clearly displays its 5-star plaque in the front lobby, but in reality the hotel is more like a 3-star.
The guest rooms show no consistency, as part of the hotel is much more modern than others, so guests may get stuck in an older room, but be charged the same as a newer facility.
The maids don't provide a standard list of toiletries, they merely put out what they have in their cart, and don't bother to check if your shampoo has been replaced. They also stopped providing me with instant coffee after the fourth night, and would knock on my door when the "do not disturb" sign was on.
The health club has a few decent machines and a pool, but the steam room was broken, and the staff had no idea when it would be fixed.
Additionally, the food at the restaurant is just horrible. They offer a huge buffet, but the quality of everything is just well below 5-star standards.
Finally, this hotel has no lobby. Well, they do have a lobby, but it's connected with a lounge, so in order to take a seat, waitresses will demand that you purchase an over-priced tea or coffee.
While I understand that there aren't many 5-star hotel options in Chongqing, China, I still wouldn't recommend this hotel, and I suggest that Softiel and Accor examine this property closely and assign a new training team to better prepare the hotel staff for the needs of 5-star business travelers.

Amazing rooms, clean, comfortable bed, big bath tub. Good service and delicious breakfast!
Definitely recommended!

1.When I reach the room, I found my room still have cigrette left by last guy! on the table and box!! Is it five star sofitel?
2. My client and me go to bar at lobby on 2340, but we have been noted the bar wi ll closed at 2400, so they could not take any order for us, I don't understand any order need be placed before 20min.
3. When we reach spa, no one could introduce my friend clearly with English, not warmly experience!

The hotel is located about 14 kilometers from the centre. It takes between 30 to 45 minutes by taxi to get to the centre, but the cost is only about 25rmb, and it is less polluted in this “high tech” area.

I cannot praise the staff too highly. They were outstandingly helpful. I had left my laptop power cable in the previous hotel but they managed to supply me with one within a couple of hours.

I would recommend the executive floor. The additional cost is well worth it. Benefits include excellent snacks and drinks in the evening, and drinks throughout the day.

Bedrooms up to the expected standard. Comfortable and clean.

The gym is not big but it is modern, of good quality and has all the necessary equipment to keep you fit.

Rather than pay for an extra half a day I was permitted to check out late at 16.30. Very helpful of them.

Certainly the best staff and service quality I have found in China. I highly recommend this hotel. Great staff and quality worthy of its five stars.