A Shanghai hotel's offer of a luxurious suite priced at 88,888 yuan (US$10,709) at the night of the Valentine's Day has sparked criticism, the Shanghai Morning Post reported yesterday.

The so-called "Rose Suite" was previously a President Suite. A couple will take a Benz sedan decorated with bunches of roses and Champagne to go to the hotel, and the way from the elevator to the suite will all be covered with flowers.

A big bunch of heart-shaped roses will be put on the bedside, and lovers can taste rose tea, chocolates and enjoy rose bath and massage at the suite, and they can also enjoy candle-light dinner there, according to the hotel.

However, nine local famous hotels are conservative towards the luxurious offer. The Shanghai JW Marriott Hotel, Hilton Hotel and Shangri-La Hotel declared that they haven't offered suits specifically for the Valentine's Day.

"Our prices for the President Suites will drop by more than 200 yuan (US$24) at the Valentine's Day," said the spokesman with the Grand Hyatt Hotel Shanghai.

The booming tourism market in Shanghai has driven up the occupancy rates in local hotels, so it is unnecessary for promotion by offering Valentine suites, said an industry analyst, adding that it will raise promotion costs and have a negative impact in the society.

(eastday.com February 13, 2004)