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The former French Hotel de Pekin, Beijing Hotel was established in 1900 and was one of the finest hotels in China at the time. As one of the last colonial hotels in Beijing, located immediately east of Tiananmen Square, it sells itself on historic grace, but it’s a disappointment for the price. The rooms are clean and neat, there is entertainment for guests and adequate services for the business traveller. But the hotel no longer stands out in the myriad accommodation possibilities available. The most recent renovation was completed in 2001, and the facelift leaves few signs of its grand past. Still, for the historically minded traveller it might be worth a visit.
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The Kempinski Hotel is very near the Chaoyang Business District and is right beside the Lufthansa Shopping Centre, adjacent to the German business centre. The rooms are very good and the management excellent. The hotel comes with two health and fitness centres, a rooftop heated pool, fully equipped gymnasium and beautifully landscaped gardens. There are a good many restaurants and bars in the nearby Nuren Jie (Women’s Street) and quick access to Sanlitun Bar Street. The hotel also has one of the best bakeries in town.
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Opened in 1984, this is still the largest hotel in Beijing. There’s a high level of service, but the rooms feel dated. While the best rooms are smart and well appointed, this is unfortunately not the case for the majority. The hotel does offer good business services and has 14 conference rooms, the largest of which can seat 1,250 people.
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St Regis is probably the most luxurious hotel in Beijing. Preferred by senior US diplomats, this is also where American presidents have stayed. The hotel is situated in Jianguomen, close to the business district and the city centre. Rooms are magnificent and light, the bathrooms impeccable and every little detail has been considered. There are 15 meeting rooms, a cigar and wine-tasting lounge and a state-of-the-art gym. You won’t forget the St Regis but, more importantly, when you come back—and you will—they won’t have forgotten you.
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