Tropical refresher

Sanya Marriott Hotel Dadonghai Bay is a relaxing oasis of calm, Wang Xin reports.

On a plane destined for Sanya, Hainan province, I was still amused recalling my friends' reaction to the news that I was flying to the tropical island in June - they looked shocked at my upcoming southward flight and sounded as if I planned to dive into boiling water.

The island, which is a popular tourist destination in winter, seems to have its quiet season during the heat of summer.

Yet Dai Huan, director of marketing and communications at Sanya Marriott Hotel Dadonghai Bay, told me that her hotel retains its appeal especially with family tours, with the school summer holidays approaching.

Nestled between Dadonghai Bay and the lushly carpeted mountains of Luhuitou Park, which are called the Love Mountains by locals due to a local legend, the hotel boasts a private beach, dazzling architecture, a 700-square-meter Kid's Club and the longest infinity swimming pool in the city.

Its recently completed East Wing, an expansive building that encompasses 160 new guestrooms and suites, a spacious glass lobby replete with waterfalls and gardens, new restaurants, and wellness and meeting facilities, has added to the hotel's appeal.