AS befits a megacity on the rise, Shenzhen has no shortage of places to rest your head, from five-star palaces to capsule-style dorm beds. Most of the cheapest digs aren’t licensed to house international travelers, but you can bag a bargain at Chinese chains, business hotels and locally-run serviced apartment complexes.

Booking your stay

Booking online can help you secure a room and obtain a good price, but some Shenzhen hotels are not listed on the most common booking sites. Aim to plan ahead and book your room in advance during the high season.

· Trip.com: Excellent hotel booking, air and train ticketing website, with English helpline.

· Agoda (www.agoda.com): Generally efficient for hotel bookings.

Room types

All rooms listed come with a private bathroom or shower room. Typically most Shenzhen hotels offer double rooms which will either have a king-size double bed or two standard doubles or large singles. Suites are available at most mid range and top-end hotels.

Rates

Rates listed include the mandatory 6% VAT and up to 15% service charge, though prices advertised on booking sites might not. It is common for hotel receptions to have a wall-mounted board with hyper-inflated prices that aren’t actually in use. Our listings show the “true” rack rate, which generally reflects the most you are ever expected to pay. However, at most times of the year, discounts are in effect, which can range from 10% to 60% off.

Booking tips

· Most rooms are twins rather than doubles, so be clear if you specifically want a double.

· Virtually all hotel rooms, whatever the price bracket, will have air-conditioning and a TV.

· All hotel rooms are subject to a 10% or 15% service charge, though the price quoted usually includes this.

· Most mid-range and top-end hotels accept credit cards, WeChat Pay and Alipay.