Banyan Tree Tianjin

Banyan Tree is famous as a luxury spa destination. [Provided to China Daily]

Banyan Tree, of course, is famous as a luxury spa destination. At the relatively new Tianjin hotel, guests include many weary Beijingers who take advantage of the half-hour bullet train from the capital to slip down for an overnight pampering. 

Other options include a more vigorous start: a scrub bath with therapeutic oils and scented candles, with your choice of auras from kieffer lime, tropical fruit, lemongrass and cucumber or the "romance scrub" for two.

If love is in the air, Banyan Tree offers an Intimate Moments package, a "realm for the senses" in your hotel suite including everything from romantic music, sensual essential oils, a bottle of wine or champagne served with chocolate-dipped strawberries.

If all that suggests you could spend the entire weekend in your hotel suite, it's true - but it would be a pity. The Banyan Tree's location, with executive suites that overlook the Han River and the gleaming skyline and shopping beyond, make it a gateway to an exciting day in the city.

You can dine in the recently opened Grill Room, where prime Australian beef and carefully sourced seafood are cooked to order. Wine lovers will be tempted as they pass the hotels wine-cellar entry on the way to their table, and the extensive wine list will not disappoint - adding another layer of relaxation and luxurious comfort to the visit.

If you intend to combine business with pleasure, there is a full range of meeting rooms and banquet facilities on offer, including the fan-shaped grand ballroom which can accommodate up to 420 guests.

Tianjin is fast becoming a weekend retreat for work-weary Beijingers, and there are few places better to relax than at the Banyan Tree.