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Situated in northern China the vibrant and dynamic capital city of Beijing is rapidly becoming one of the most important cities in Asia. As one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, this city has emerged through invasions, wars, fires and changing political ideologies to become the cultural, educational and political hub of China. It is also the main transportation hub with railways and highways passing through the city and the destination of many international flights. The array of hotels is enormous with many fabulous four and five star hotels and all visitors to the city are sure to find a Beijing hotel that perfectly suits their needs.
Having been an integral part of Beijing's history for centuries, there are not many buildings in Beijing that do not have some national historical importance. The city was ruled by powerful dynasties such as Ming and Qing, many of which have left their mark in the form of opulent palaces, temples, huge stone walls and art treasures. Until recently, the city was made up almost entirely of Hutongs, single story buildings and narrow lanes. The modern city is in a state of transition with broad boulevards and ring roads, many high-rise buildings and world-class five star Beijing hotels located all around the city center.
The architecture of a Beijing hotel is truly representative of the styles and designs to be found throughout the city with a stunning blend of ultra modern architecture and old world design. From the French colonnade architecture of the Raffles Hotel to the traditional Chinese pagoda gates at the entrance of the Peninsular hotel in the Forbidden City cultural district, the variation of styles will delight any enthusiast of design and structure.
Décor of a Beijing hotel reflects the dynamic facets of Chinese life. Grand double and triple volume lobbies include an exotic blend of ancient and modern Chinese influences. Here guests will find tremendous attention to detail with grand, opulent, white marble columns, towering palm trees and hand-painted ceilings. Other hotels include warm earthy colors with overstuffed sofas and chairs and rich carpets creating warmth and welcome.
Guest rooms and suites at any four or five star Beijing hotel are opulently decorated with antique styled Chinese furniture including traditional cabinets and gold framed mirrors and gilded walls covered with beautiful artworks. Many rooms include a king-size bed with down duvet and hypo-allergenic and feather pillows and a walk-in closet. Connecting rooms are available if required. Marble bathrooms are the height of luxury with separate shower and large soaking bathtub, luxury toiletries and soft terry robes and slippers. Furnishings at a budget Beijing hotel generally consist of a double or queen-size bed and simple yet attractive décor.
Some of the in-room amenities include air-conditioning with self-adjustable temperature settings, a mini-bar, refrigerator, tea and coffee maker, in-room safe, cable and satellite television and DVD/VCR. With the business guest in mind, many rooms include a large working desk, high-speed internet access and a cordless telephone, in fact all the amenities and facilities necessary to conduct business in a luxurious and tasteful setting.
No stay in a Beijing hotel is complete without spending some time in one of the fabulous and luxurious hotel spas. The St Regis is renowned for its hot natural spring which draws water from miles underground. The relaxing and therapeutic massages and treatments making use of a blend of ancient Chinese and Asian healing techniques with modern therapies are aimed at restoring body, mind and soul. For those guests wanting to maintain their fitness programs, well-equipped fitness centers with cardio equipment and free weights also provide aerobic, yoga and ballet classes and lap pools perfect for training and exercise.
Guests will find many other relaxing leisure opportunities at a Beijing hotel. From a golf course on the roof, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and tennis courts, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms, there is something for everyone.
Some of the best cuisine in the city is to be found at a Beijing hotel. From one of the best Italian restaurants at the St Regis to five multi-award winning dining venues at the Regent Hotel, the selection and cuisine type is endless. With a la carte, buffet and casual terrace dining and a selection of Cantonese cuisine as well as steakhouses and Southern Chinese delicacies, even the most discerning gourmet will be well pleased.
A Beijing hotel is also well placed for guests to enjoy and absorb much of the culture of the city. The Forbidden City that was the Chinese Imperial Palace now houses the Palace Museum. The Temple of Heaven with its three-tiered roof and golden dome is not to be missed while Tiananmen Square is a fascinating reminder of some the city's turbulent past. A day-trip to The Great Wall of China is an essential experience while world-class shopping at the Friendship Store, Silk Alley and the Wangfujing Shopping District provides for all wants and needs. Chinese handicrafts, antiques, calligraphy, carpets and silk fabrics are all available in the historic shopping alleys.
A Beijing hotel serves as the ideal base from which to discover the unparalleled wealth of the ancient city and to enjoy its exciting 21th century development. With some cheaper hotels and many first-class four and five star hotels offering luxurious accommodation, fine cuisine and plenty of amenities and facilities, a Beijing hotel attracts both corporate and leisure visitors who are bound to return time and time again.
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