Fodor's Expert Review Park Plaza Beijing

Hidden behind the swankier Regent on Beijing's glitziest avenue, this popular mid-range option, especially good for first-time visitors to the city, has clean and compact rooms with decent-sized bathrooms, English TV channels, a pleasant tree-shaded garden, and a fantastic location close to the Forbidden City and Wangfujing. There's a Starbucks opposite and a selection of great restaurants, including the famed Peking duck eatery Dadong, within walking distance. Dining in the hotel isn't recommended; the breakfast buffet, with omelets made to order, is a little pricey for the quality.