Beijing: St. Regis or Kempinski???
 

Hey Everyone. I'm off to Beijing in October and have found that everyone's travel advice interesting and valuable.... thanks. One question I want to ask, but could not find the answer to - St. Regis or Kempinski?<BR><BR>I am only going to Beijing for four days, and looking for a *luxury* getaway from the concrete-heaven that seems to be Seoul. I have already made a reservation through the St. Regis website @ US$275/night for the statesman suite, but then I came across the Kempinski hotel which although not as luxurious still looks great. What should I do? <BR><BR>The St. Regis is right in the CBD/close to the Square/Forbidden City, but from what I have read here, the Kempinski is sort of far and dealing w/Beijing's traffic could be a problem, since I have no other choice but to go in the first week of October. On the other hand, the Kempinski offers more recreational facilities, such as a pool, that the St. Regis does not. Ohhh... also the other difference is that Kempinski is about US$145/night from sinho-hotel.com.... although rates are not my main concern. Does anyone have any first-hand accounts regarding either hotel, and what would be your verdict??? <BR><BR>Thanks in advance, Cheers.

Are these your only two choices? I know the Kempinski is farther away from the major sites, and this can be a problem if you need to take a taxi somewhere (the traffic can be unbearable). The St. Regis was not open when we were in Beijing, so we stayed at the Palace Hoel, part of the Peninsula Group of hotels. We really enjoyed our stay; the concierge was particularly helpful. It is also conveneintly located. Have fun!

Taxis are really cheap and the Kempinski is all of a half hour (in bad traffic) from the center of town. The Kempinski offers a lot of good restaurants, the best shopping center in the city, close proximity to the Hard Rock Cafe and other good restaurants. Have never stayed in the St. Regis, however have stayed in over a dozen hotels in Beijing, including Palace, Crowne Plaza, China World, etc. <BR> <BR>You won't be disappointed at the Kempinski. Also, it's a lot quicker to get to the Wall, etc. from there than it is from the center of BJ.

Thanks Robyn and Micahel - I have notcied that you guys are the resident 'China Experts' around here, so thanks for responding to an otherwise redundant question. <BR> <BR>One more thing Michael, how are the rooms at the Kempinski? Color scheme, amenities, technology? The web-site doesn't show much of the rooms offered. Is it worth to upgrade to a suite, and how would they compare to other suites in Beijing? (I have read that you have stayed at many other Beijing hotels). <BR> <BR>Cheers, BaliLover.

Bali, <BR> <BR>The rooms are modern and comfortable. The staff is typical of a five star hotel in that they are courteous and friendly. No need (in my opinion) to upgrade to a suite. You may consider upgrading to the exec floor as snacks, drinks, etc. are served in the exec lounge, which makes for a relaxing time after being out sightseeing all day.