April 30 2008: After already being quite a few times in Beijing while staying near Wangfujing, my last business trip took me to the Kempinski, which is on the "outskirts" of the 3rd ring road. The hotel is not in walking distance to any popular site but instead next to many international companies including my employer. In addition, the location is also very convenient to go shopping, dining or drinking as Lady Street, Sanlitun and Chaoyang Park (West Gate) are close by. Therefore, the hotel is great a location to start any lively evening in Beijing (e.g. to the Block 8 complex).

In my opinion, the public areas are very stylish and modern as they have been recently renovated. The lobby is huge and really stunning. Sitting in the lobby lounge really gives you a good feeling. The hotel has also a good selection of restaurant, 6 in total. I tried the Japanese one: very, very stylish decor accompanied by very fresh and quite tasty sashimi and sushi.

In contrast, my room had rather outdated decor. It was well-maintained and very clean but still... Huge difference to the public areas. However, everything the modern business traveler (=me) needs was available, even free Internet and a nice, complimentary breakfast (both were the benefit of staying on the executive floor). Still, I think that the rate was to high compared to the room furnishing.

Service was always friendly and efficient. It was not excessive and therefore the way I personally prefer. Being pampered to 100% is not what I want. ;)

Definitely a very good hotel and when Kempinski updates its room furnishing it will be a great one. Even so, I would stay here again without any hesitation.

Date of stay: April 2008
Purpose of stay: Business