Another aspect worthy of consideration is the accommodation offered and accepted by said FT's western colleagues. Is it basically the same? Said FT hasn't mentioned that. I reckon if he's the only one complaining, the Chinese will be against him, that is, if they're all housed in that kind of accommodation.
I'm rather surprised that the FT doesn't mention that. I think it's relevant. Just thinking he could be a nitpicker trying to seek attention on here, but not seriously concerned by the accommodation he's in.