This hotel exceeded all expectations. As part of the Peninsula Group hotel chain, that should not have been a surprise, however.

The superb accommodations (530 rooms), staff, location and food options all combined into one unbelievable experience. The outside of the hotel is not assuming, but rather quaint with a typical Chinese arched roof. Once inside, however, you are transported into a world unto itself - the imposing marble staircase is just one of the indications of the richness (without being opulent) of this hotel.

Each room has exceptionally comfortable beds, with exquisite Chinese silk linens (duvet coverlet included), international direct-dial telephones, electronic safe (easy to use and reuse), color TV's (including CNN and CNBC and a few movie channels in English), and a marble bathroom fully equipped with a drinkable water spout (this is so rare, and so much appreciated, especially in the hot summer months). So go ahead and fill up your water bottles each day from your room, and save the money you would ordinarily spend on bottled water for the many Chinese collectibles that are available.

The staff is superb, almost all of whom speak English. Each floor was decorated with orchids the week I was there, and the "little" touches were so much appreciated. Elevators, for instance, were always working (there are 6) and the wait is not that long (contrary to other places in China). The food options are varied (including the requisite cafe (Palm Court Coffee House) which will gladly sell you an outstanding hamburger with french fries for a reasonable $15.00), but you must try the dim sum lunch at the Fortune Garden Chinese restaurant. Outstanding.

The fitness room, not surprisingly, is fully equipped with nautilus, weights, bikes, treadmills and a lovely swimming pool. If the urge strikes, by all means have a massage (very reasonably priced by US standards). Their masseuses and masseurs are all Chinese and have magical hands. There are many name stores (rather expensive, the likes of Fifth Avenue and Beverly Hills) you can browse in for high-end goods, or just walk a few minutes to the pedestrian mall to explore the many stores that line this mini-mall area. The beauty salon offers Clarins treatments, although I did not try these on this visit. There is also a "business center" for those of us who just HAVE to sign on to check emails, with reasonable rates (10 minutes for about US$6.50)

All in all, this is one exceptional way to stay while in the city of Beijing. If you're planning on attending the Olympics in 2008, I'd book your room NOW (if there are still rooms available, that is!)

Enjoy...
The location is excellent, with Tiananmen Square about a 20-30 minute walk.

Recommended: Yes