Holiday Asia

November/December 2003

Hotel Watch: Beijing, p.64

Beijing, the capital of China, offers a fascinating mix of new meets old: the modern, capitalist culture overlays a deep history spanning imperial centuries. This month, asia-hotels.com reviews a diverse range of hotels to reflect the city's many faces.

St Regis Beijing Bellhop rating: 4.5 Star rating: 5 Prices from: US$178 Cleanliness: 4.5 Facilities: 4.5 Staff Attitude: 4 Value for Money: 3.5 Overall rating: 4.5	A popular choice for local and international business travelers, the St Regis is within hailing distance of Beijing's diplomatic district and a few minutes' drive from the central business district. Spacious and relaxing rooms - among the most expensive in the city - feature a personalized bar, writing table, personal fax line, large-screen television, elegant marble bathroom with a deep tub and comfortable lounge chairs. Facilities include nine restaurants, among them the popular Cigar Bar, Press Club Bar and Celestial Court, all frequented by Beijing's influential and trendy set. The business and fitness centers and the spa are up to the standards one would expect from a very top international hotel, as are the 25-meter indoor pool and bowling alley. All this - combined with 24-hour butler service - makes this the hotel frequented by the city's upper echelon. To be seen in the St Regis means that you have arrived.
Peninsula Palace Beijing Bellhop rating: 4.4 Star rating: 5 Prices from:US$121 Cleanliness: 5 Facilities: 5 Staff Attitude: 4 Value for Money: 4 Overall rating: 5	The Peninsula Palace, one of Beijing's oldest five-star hotels, is situated on the rather quaintly named Goldfish Lane. Being just off the Wangfujing shopping district and close to major tourist attractions makes it convenient for just about everyone. A recent US$27 million refurbishment has resulted in rooms that are beautifully furnished and carry thoughtful details like the mist-free mirrors and computerized lighting so typical of the Peninsula Group. Restaurants include the contemporary Jing, with its glass-walled, walk-in cellars, and the newly opened Huang Ting, specializing in dim sum. Three Palace Club floors include an impressive executive lounge; the business and fitness centers are well equipped. High-end designer boutiques populate the hotel's arcade. Catering both to business guests and tourists, the Peninsula Palace is clearly aimed at those willing to spend that little bit extra to have the best. In a word: elegant.
Harmony Hotel Bellhop rating: 4.53 Star rating: 3 Prices from: US$36 Cleanliness: 3.5 Facilities: 3 Staff Attitude: 3.5 Value for Money: 4 Overall rating: 3.5	The Harmony's location makes it a good choice for those wanting a three-star hotel near the city's famed attractions. Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven are within easy reach, as are subway and train stations. The hotel's 122 guestrooms are clean albeit with basic amenities. Beds are traditional Chinese style, which can be a tad hard for overseas guests. The hotel restaurant, Tao-Li, serves a good selection of Chinese and Western dishes. And the staff are attentive to tourists' needs, such as getting the right tickets from the train station and writing down Chinese instructions for taxi drivers. Facilities may be limited but for its very affordable price and location, the Harmony Hotel suits those looking for no-frills accommodation while sightseeing in Beijing.
Lu Song Yuan Bellhop rating: 4.40 Star rating: 3 Prices from: US$48 Cleanliness: 4 Facilities: 3 Staff Attitude: 3.5 Value for Money: 3.5 Overall rating: 3.5	The Lu Song Yuan Hotel is located in an historical hutong neighborhood capturing the character of old Beijing. Admittedly, it is a little hard to find. But its position in the maze of charming back streets lends it an air of seclusion, which is in keeping with its quaint Chinese personality. The 57 rooms are set in low buildings flanking a series of courtyards and quadrangles. Rooms are generally small and spartan but decorated with memorable Ming-style furnishings, such as the firm yet ornate beds. Larger guestrooms that open directly to the timeless courtyards are especially popular. The staff are helpful, and the location is convenient for sights such as the Forbidden City. Lu Song Yuan is basic, with few facilities found in modern hotels, so it will not suit those looking for luxury. But those who want to be immersed in Chinese culture and history will love it.