Diaoyutai

The villas set aside for accommodations were of course clean and comfortable, but what took my breath away were the grandeur of the fanghua villa and of course villa 18. It is steeped in history and wonderful reminder of what is unique to Chinese culture.

Stayed here for two nights on business trip. The hotel is very clean, a bit outside the city centre, but only 20-25 minutes away by car, depending on the constant heavy traffic of Beijing. The reception or staff altogether is not so efficient, they don't speak any English really, don't expect to receive any proper invoices on your company name, they say even a 10 letter word will not fit on the invoice... Unless you really need one, don't stay here. The rooms are super comfy and large, equipped with everything you need.The breakfast is mainly chinese style, not much to choose from, and not the best quality i believe...definitely ok for a short stay if your line of business brings your here, otherwise I am sure there are better ones, for the same price.

The Diaoyutai Hotel is precisely what one would expect as a state run hotel. Solid service, solid but not terribly exciting rooms, right next to the main government guest house (where visiting dignitaries or their staff stay). The location (for me) was not terribly convenient as a tourist, though the park next door was a lovely way to walk off jet lag in the early morning