Located opposite Changfeng Park and standing close to the banks of Suzhou Creek, the hotel offers a refreshing resort feel in a natural setting despite its proximity to the heart of one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

"We're creating this area as a destination. Our guests conduct their business downtown, but when they want a more peaceful and quiet environment, they love to come back here, as the spirit of the Marriott is to deliver a brilliant service," he says.

Malik has spent over a decade in China, including the last four and half in Shanghai. He has seen profound changes over this period, and has also steered the Shanghai Marriott Hotel Changfeng Park to become the best Marriott hotel in the Asia-Pacific region in terms of guests' satisfaction.

"In just 20 years I've witnessed a dramatic upgrading of China' hospitality business, especially in Shanghai," he says.

Malik remembers when he first visited the city in 1995, Pudong was mostly rice paddies. Now it boasts one of the world's best skylines and is putting the finishing touches to the tallest building in the country.

"Everything has completely changed, from the people's living standards to their consumption power," he says.

"I've noticed that Chinese businessmen are more open-minded, more international, and have a broader vision these days. They want to be connected to the world."

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