Crowne Plaza BEIJING ZHONGGUANCUN

Excellent stay. We had problems with air conditioning first nite. They were very committed to finding a suitable resolution. Engineers showed up promptly to try to fix problem, we tried several different rooms, but b/c we were traveling in small group, the accommodations did not work out, and ultimately they gave us portable air conditioning units. The room AC did start to work on the 2nd day, and did a fabulous job. In addition, their manager provided our rooms with complementary mooncake gift boxes in celebration of the Autumn Moon Festival, given the difficulties we were experiencing. Much further above and beyond what some of the other 5 stars did to compensate for accomodation problems. Rooms are large, modern, very clean. Small sitting area which is nice. Fitness center has good selection aerobic and lifting options. Large pool. Excellent breakfast selection, especially beef noodle soup, better than other 5 stars. Good in house restaurants, McDonalds, KFC and Pizza Hut nearby if you need. Cabs sometimes hard to get, 20 - 30 minute wait, but if you get on the main road they're easier to catch. Location somewhat far if your going to tourist area downtown. Sometimes hard to get cab to take you back. But subway is accessible, and inexpensive - 2 yuan to anywhere. Good shopping area, especially electronics. No reservations about staying again. Definitely should stay here if visiting around northwest side of city, ie. business, universities, summer palace, also about 6 -7 subway stops to Olympic Stadium area, but also good choice for value even if going to Wangfujing area.

Visiting on business. Surprised by the large room - plenty of space, lighted closet, bathrobes provides. A round table instead of desk, but fully functional with internet access, both wired and wireless. Like all hotels in Asia, this one also has a tea maker included. Bathroom with shower and separate bathtub. Only possible criticism was that bathroom smelled a bit musky - probably because it got wet somewhere under the tiles. Not a big deal, and all at a good price. Super buffet in the morning (not included, 170 RMB) has everything for the western and the asian taste.