The Peninsula, Beijing

China
Asia

The Experience

Until the run-up to the Olympics boon, Western luxury was harder to find in the Chinese capital than in Shanghai or Hong Kong. And thanks to a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2006, and subsequent renaming, The Peninsula, Beijing became the city's first truly luxe property. The electronic bedside control panels, 42-inch plasma TVs, upscale shopping arcade and fantastic restaurants may not be surprising to today's traveler--but not long ago it was an anomaly in Beijing.

The Rooms

Since the hotel's bread and butter is the business traveler, the boxy rooms in warm colors with Antwood floors feature prominent executive desks with free wireless and broadband access. Relaxation is encouraged in marble bathrooms with outsized tubs, adjustable mood lighting and those large TVs. Starting at 335 square feet, there's room to spread out, and upper floors offer better views--request one looking over the Forbidden City. The Club offers standard fare of private check-in; lounge with complimentary breakfast, tea, cocktails and canapés; and all the pressing a suit--or frock--can handle.

The Service

Uniformed staff swarm all over the lobby from the moment you arrive, and they continue this efficiency throughout your stay--though more unobtrusively. A hotel rep can be arranged to meet guests gate-side to guide them through the airport; later on, a book left open on a bedside table will have a bookmark in it by bedtime; and, if you splurge on porcelain at the flea market, as did one recent guest, the concierge will gladly--and safely--pack it all up for the flight home.

The Highlights

If you've ever been tempted to check into a hotel and never leave, you could happily do that here. (Assuming, of course, you've already seen the Forbidden City and Mao's Tomb.) The shopping arcade with Armani, Chanel, Gucci, Hermès, Cartier and 50 others can keep you busy, but be sure to catch a little fresh air on the sunbathing terrace next to the heated swimming pool. Then head to the health club and spa. Oh, and don't miss the restaurants. Wind your way down a glass-enclosed circular staircase to ultra-mod Jing and a meal of pork tenderloin with Asian pear relish, cooked in one of the open kitchens. Or have dim sum in the Cantonese-inspired Huang Ting, with Qing Dynasty antiques, 200-year-old beams and aged pine floors.

 

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