Hilton HHonors - Hilton Beijing hotel

I'm planning a trip to Beijing and considering staying at the Hilton property there. Any suggestions or help would be greatly apreciated. Thank You

I would be interested as well. I will be spending two nights at the Beijing Hilton soon. If no one else says anything, I will let you know how it is upon my return.

I'm staying at the Hilton Beijing from Thurs-Sunday and am wondering if anyone out there can give me a current update on the hotel. Also wondering whether they will automatically upgrade me to a better room/floor since I'm HH gold. Finally, what's the best way to get to the hotel from the airport? Thanks in advance.

In mid June I will travel to China and Beijing for a short weekend trip and I thinking about staying at the Hilton Beijing but it seems like its not located in downtown Beijing but a bit outside.

Has anyone stayed there? How far is it from the hotel to downtown Beijing? Are taxes expensive? I also saw that the Hilton offers some kind of sight seeing tours, anyone knows anything about them?

I cannot answer the question about Hilton, but I can assure you that a taxi is CHEAP. My tips to the drivers were bigger than the fare.

Very interesting city. I would like to go back one day.

Thanks

If you are visiting Beijing and seeing the sights, you may want to head downtown but if you need a location a bit more convenient to part of the business district and the airport, the Hilton fills the bill.

Looks like I will be arriving in Beijing late on Sat 7th Dec my way home from Shanghai to Europe.

Will arr @ 2240 at the airport.

Flight departs @ 1110 Sun morning.

Would the Hilton be a reasonable option for me ?

Would I be able to see any market / shops early on Sun am in the Hilton (or airport) area ?

Your inputs are appreciated ...

Hilton is one of the best hotels closest to airport--others include Kempinski. Holiday Inn Lido (the one by the airport) is not bad either and closer to airport just some cabbies don't know where it is.

Neither is in the best location for "local" shopping but Lufthansa Center is close to Hilton (right at Kempinski).

[This message has been edited by BlondeBomber (edited 11-29-2002).]

Here's a link for what shopping is like here:

http://www.magma.ca/~mtooker/tips/beijtips.htm

"I am going to say this just once, and you can happily ignore my advice if you choose: no matter how selective you are, and how hard you think you can bargain, you will get better quality goods at a price that gives better value, by shopping at a large, fancy department store than by dickering on the street or at a market stall for clothes or handicrafts. And you will never walk away from a fancy department store checking the items in your bag, counting your change, and wondering if you have just been ripped off.

The 5th floor of the Lufthansa Centre (a.k.a. You Yi Shopping City) is a good place to shop for Chinese handicrafts such as jade, silk, ceramics, combs, fans, etc., etc., etc. Just be careful crossing the road (Dongsanhuan Beilu) to get there! There are bigger and better shopping areas around town though - such as Wangfujing Street just east of Tiananmen Square (including an amazing 8-storey mall with every manner of western style goods and handicrafts to boot), the Hongqiao Market directly opposite the east side of the Temple of Heaven Park (like a department store full of privately run stalls), the Silk Market in an alley just east of the big Friendship Department Store on Jianguomen Wai Avenue, and the clothes market on the street on the west side of Ritan Park (2 blocks north of the Friendship Department Store). I found tons of great children's clothes by shopping in the kids' departments of Chinese department stores. The staff were very helpful, with practically nothing but miming necessary to tell them how big, what color, etc. "

Give yourself lots of time at the airport. Checkin starts 90 minutes before flight time and it is good to be there then. I have barely made flights even when I thought I left lots of time. If you are flying in business or first class you can relax a bit as there is a VIP line.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by BlondeBomber:
Give yourself lots of time at the airport. Checkin starts 90 minutes before flight time and it is good to be there then. I have barely made flights even when I thought I left lots of time. If you are flying in business or first class you can relax a bit as there is a VIP line.</font>

I saw the VIP line when there a couple of weeks ago - unfortunately no one told me about it! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif No worries as had lots of time, but would have been nice not to stand in that mess of a line(s).

SimonC

PS: I enjoyed the BJ Hilton ... was treated very well there and would stay there again.

I will be going to Beijing Hilton in March for sightseeing.
How far is it from sightseeing places like
forbidden city, summer palace, great walls.
Is there a local tour that I can book from the hotel.

Yes, many tours you can book from all the hotels. Depending on where you go on the wall (there are various locations, three are the best known and most visited), the ride is anywhere from 1-2 hours, less if you go by private car.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by myip:
I will be going to Beijing Hilton in March for sightseeing.
How far is it from sightseeing places like
forbidden city, summer palace, great walls.
Is there a local tour that I can book from the hotel.</font>

Taking a taxi from the Hilton to the Forbidden City was about 20-30 minutes if I recall correctly. As for the Great Wall and Tombs I took a tour from the hotel - it was a full day tour but I found it personally well worth it. They have 2-3 tours you can book from the Hilton and then I would assume (but did not check) that the Kempinski Hotel ( a couple of blocks away - 5 min on foot ) would also have other tours.

PS: Taxis were very cheap - just make sure you get an estimate from the hotel desk otherwise you may be in for a shock if they do no turn on the meter! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

SimonC

[This message has been edited by SimonC (edited 12-07-2002).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by linda85003:
Thanks for the information. It looks like the St. Regis for Beijing and maybe the Hilton in Shanghai. Thanks everyone.</font>


I would disagree on the PEK St. Regis. I thought it was an over-priced rip-off. While the rooms & decor (including staff uniforms et al) was what you'd expect from a Luxury 5* hotel; the staff were severely lacking in 'Willingness to serve' mentality.

As such I presonally prefer the Great Wall Sheraton. I'll try the Hyatt or Palace next time.

Regards,
Alex

Sorry, but I need to ask a "side" question.

I have just booked two nights at the Grand Hotel Beijing (a member of the Leading Hotels of the World). Just curious if anybody have any knowledge to this hotel.

I have seen the Palace been mentioned a number of times now... The Palace os also a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. Is this proporty the best in Beijing?

The Palace is a VERY VERY poor hotel. Go for the St. Regis.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by hfly:
The Palace is a VERY VERY poor hotel. Go for the St. Regis.</font>

What about the Marco Polo? Is that any good as I'm boked in there for the summer.

Just looking at my second booking bonus in a couple of weeks at Beijing Hilton.

I can't find any reference to this MEAP booking bonus promotion. Anyone have the scoop so I can plan for it? Nice little surprise anyway.

Bonus Name HHonors Points +Partner Miles
AC Double Dip 0 500
Base Points 1,328 0
DIAMOND VIP - 2003 664 0
VISA MID-YEAR 2003 1,328 0
MEAP BOOKING BONUS 500 0
TOTAL POINTS FOR THIS STAY 3,820



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BlondeBomber's Star Lounge Guide (http://members.shaw.ca/deercroft/starlounge2003.xls)
BlondeBomber's Star Alliance Gold Comparison Chart 2003 (http://members.shaw.ca/deercroft/starall03.html)
BlondeBomber's Hilton HHonors Rewards Hotel Levels (1 MB!) (http://members.shaw.ca/twallis/hiltonglobal.xls)
BlondeBomber's Starwood Hotel Levels (http://members.shaw.ca/twallis/starwood.xls)

Just bringing this forward. I am still getting this bonus at Hilton Beijing (until 3rd week November anyway). Still don't know what it is. Not getting it in Canada, South Africa etc.

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BlondeBomber's Star Lounge Guide (http://members.shaw.ca/deercroft/starlounge2003.xls)
BlondeBomber's Star Alliance Gold Comparison Chart 2003 (http://members.shaw.ca/deercroft/starall03.html)
BlondeBomber's Hilton HHonors Rewards Hotel Levels (1 MB!) (http://members.shaw.ca/twallis/hiltonglobal.xls)
BlondeBomber's Starwood Hotel Levels (http://members.shaw.ca/twallis/starwood.xls)

I did a search but only found about 10 threads, mostly from 2003 and mostly negative. Does anyone have any recent experience at this hotel? I'm a Diamond. Thanks.

I stayed there Nov 2002 and found it excellent ... lounge was very nice ... service excellent ... room (suite actually) was very nice ... I found it an excellent location personally.



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PB

I know you are looking for more recent. I was there in August 2003 3 times. I found the hotel very nice. The staff excellent and the service very good. Beds are a little hard for my taste but all the ones I slept on in China were very hard. There is a nice mall a block away and a Hard Rock Cafe 2 blocks away. Other than that you need a taxi. Taxis are very cheap though. Only about 15 Yuan to the Imperial Palace and Tienneman Square. Less than $2. It is on the right side of the city for the airport.

(Edited for spelling)

[This message has been edited by Baze (edited Feb 11, 2004).]

don't know why the negativity. I always get a good rate, treated well, great breakfast. Not much food in the lounge at night but it is ok and drinks are free and you are up high with somewhat of a view.

I usually get put in a 2 room suite as a diamond, with big bowl of fruit, bottle of wine and box truffles. Fresh flowers, clean, quiet, spacious. Even if not put on the executive floor, you get executive floor privileges. You can have breakfast on exec floor (adequate) or downstairs (very good).

For the price, this is one of the better values around. I have never paid more than $129US in high seasons and have paid as little as $89. Typically $99-$109 US plus 15% without any corp rate.

I love the location as I can be on the airport expressway in a couple of minutes, no 15-45 minute waits to get out of the parking lot like some other more downtown hotels.

------------------

BlondeBomber's Star Lounge Guide (http://members.shaw.ca/deercroft/starlounge2003.xls)
BlondeBomber's Star Alliance Gold Comparison Chart 2004 (http://members.shaw.ca/deercroft/starall04.html)
BlondeBomber's Hilton HHonors Rewards Hotel Levels (1 MB!) (http://members.shaw.ca/twallis/hiltonglobal.xls)
BlondeBomber's Starwood Hotel Levels (http://members.shaw.ca/twallis/starwood.xls)

The reason for the negativity is because this is Asia which we are talking about, and while the PEK Hilton may be "nice" or even "great" for a Hilton, there are many properties that are far far superior to it.

While I may stay in a lot of Hiltons and am into the miles, I almost never stay in Hiltons in Asia, and will only do Conrads if the deal is really good.

I agree with everything blondebomber said and have received the same.

I also agree there are much nicer hotels but the Hiltons I have stayed in in Asia are more than adequate for me. And I am loyal to the chain so I can maintain my staus and get the perks. I don't do enough nights a year to get top tier in 2 chains or even top in Hilton and mid in another so I choose Hilton.

I stayed there in Jan 2004.
I would say hfly is right and would call the Beijing Hilton nice but not great.

I (lowly gold) was upgraded two regular execclub room. Food in the lounge was almost nonexistent and the breakfast in the lounge was actually pretty poor.

Also I had a little trouble with my bill. Since I was in a hurry to get to the airport I trusted them to correct my bill as promised and sent it after me. But nothing happened, actually the stay did not even show up in my account yet.

BTW once in China: The Dalian Hilton is what I would call great

I am a long time reader and first time poster. I love this website and it has helped me out tremendously during the last two years.

That being said, I have a quick question about the Beijing Hilton and the possibility of putting a third person into a room with two people. I was told by Hilton reservations that there would be a 30.00 charge for a rollaway and an extra person. I couldn't find this on the Beijing Hilton site. I ran a search on this and couldn't come up with anything. I was wondering if anyone had done this, and if they did, was the 30.00 charge correct or if the hotel would even allow the third person.

Also, if anyone has any recent experiences as a gold, I would appreciate any comments you could make.

Thanks in advance for the help

Anyone know? Thanks!

I am here right now in the exec lounge. A free laptop on an ADSL line. A touch slow. But functional. And nice while I snack on cookies and other treats.

The rooms (at least exec floor rooms) have high speed internet for 120 yuan a day. Though I think the speed isn't exactly that fast. Perhaps we should call it medium speed internet. :D

Been treated very well here as a diamond. Great exec floor room, lounge access (they make eggs / waffles to order for you). Bottle of wine in the room. Fruit bowl in the room. 2 bottles of water provided every day!

I just wish you could see something here. The air is so smoggy you are lucky to see more than a few blocks from the 25th floor.

Started the trip at the Shanghai Hilton. Similar treatment except that they gave me breakfast coupons. The breakfast was very nice - no cooking to order - but a great selection of fruit/meats/dim sum. I was there a very short time and never even made it to the exec lounge.

i love the bfast at hilton beijing. shanghai pales in comparison in this regard. the made-to-order omelettes and small selectin of dim sum @ beijing does it for me.

Trying to arrange a trip first week in May to Beijing, and was not able to get their web site to accept awards for a single day of the entire trip. Any suggestions, or are they really blacked out/busy.
:confused:

The only thing would be to call up the hotel directly. Short of being HH Diamond, there's not much else you can do except check back regularly to see if any rooms have opened up.

Perhaps it's time to consider Starwood? Many people maintain balances in both for the 'just in case' times. ;)

The Hilton in PEK is a pretty poor choice, perhaps your lucky. Try the St. Regis or Hyatt instead, they are much better.

The Hilton in PEK is a pretty poor choice, perhaps your lucky. Try the St. Regis or Hyatt instead, they are much better.

hfly - Seeing as they want to use Hilton points this is not much of a suggestion.

Whitestick - If Hilton reservations can't get you the award then as Braindrain said, it is probably best to call the hotel directly. Or try and have reservations call the hotel for you.

The hotel is a little worn and out of the way. It is convinient for the airport though. And the staff was wonderful for my stays.

I call direct frequently to get access to award stays when the central system (web or phone) denies them.

Recently, I've been getting more resistance from local staff, and I've wondered if Hilton is discouraging this practice.

It has also been suggested to me to just make a regular reservation and show up with the cert. I've yet to try this, and clearly it is not something everyone will want to try, but I just thought I'd throw it out there.

Meanwhile, find out how to call on the cheap at www.1010phonerates.com like $0.12/min to China (http://tinyurl.com/3qq8a). (I'm not affiliated with them, except as an avid user.)

onesuite.com ~3c per min to china :D
good experience so far

Trying to arrange a trip first week in May to Beijing, and was not able to get their web site to accept awards for a single day of the entire trip. Any suggestions, or are they really blacked out/busy.
:confused:

Just call HHonors at 1-800-HHONORS to try to reserve. I had my own problems with the Website because availability hadn't been loaded there :td: . So did some FTer a few weeks ago, whom I advised to call the above number for better results ^ .

onesuite.com ~3c per min to china :D
good experience so farIt's good to know about onesuite, but my long distance usage is so low and rare that I really prefer the simplicity of the 1010 dial around systems that don't require sign up, pre pay, etc.

I'm planning to stay at the Hilton Bejing twice in June, the Hilton website warns that this property is undergoing construction. Does anyone know how bad I should expect that to be and if I should go elsewhere?

I was there recently. They start work very early and finish quite late, but not working through the night. If you're unlucky enough to get a room 1 or 2 floors above or below where they're working I think it would be disruptive. If further away (as I was) the main impact is all the workers using the lifts.

On the day I checked out, the lounge was shut down and a temporary one set up on 2nd (?) floor. I dont know whether by June the regular lounge will be open. I would email the hotel - they were quite helpful in answering my questions.

Has anyone stayed at the Hilton Beijing during the construction? The website says they'll be done by August and I'll be staying there at the start of September.

Does anyone know if the construction affects the rooms themselves, or the lobby and surrounding areas?

I was there in December, heard banging from my room in the 25th floor. They said they would confine the construction noise from 10Am to 4Pm. which they did.

I was there in April. I wasnt in my room during those hours but still some banging. None in the middle of the night though.

The lounge was being temporarily relocated to 2nd floor IIRC.

Is this construction on the hotel itself, or nearby? Improvements?

When I was there, it was on the ground floor, they were completely redoing the conference center.

I was there in April. I wasnt in my room during those hours but still some banging. None in the middle of the night though.

The lounge was being temporarily relocated to 2nd floor IIRC.

Any updates on the construction at the Beijing Hilton? Any recent stay reviews?

When I was there, it was on the ground floor, they were completely redoing the conference center.

Looks like all constructions are finished here at the Beijing Hilton.

Did not receive an upgraded room because it was fully booked. I was offered a Hilton stuffed bear as a gift. In addition, wine, assortment of chocolate, bottled water, and fresh fruit in my room. My room was on the 18th floor, newly renovated, seperate shower and bath, new furnishing, and very nice executive lounge breakfast.

A very nice choice for Beijing until the Conrad opens in 2008.

Does anyone know when the Shanghai Hilton will renovate?

The Hilton in PEK is a pretty poor choice, perhaps your lucky. Try the St. Regis or Hyatt instead, they are much better.

I must say after the renovations the Hilton in Beijing is no longer a poor choice. It is again a 5-star hotel in Beijing in my opinion. Althought the St. Regis is still a little better with nicer suite upgrades and better service.

You may be running into problems because that week is one of China's 3 mandatory vacation weeks. IME business hotels have high vacancy rates during those weeks, but they could be holding back inventory anyway.

I think the Hilton is a pretty good hotel (particulary the club floors) and is well situated for those that want to get around town (relatively) quickly.

I was there in July. Had to change rooms due to noise. The higher floors were the loudest. Also, the place was very dusty.

I was there in July. Had to change rooms due to noise. The higher floors were the loudest. Also, the place was very dusty.

I must take back what I said in the previous post. Noise can be heard on the high floors and in the executive lounge. They must be working on the executive floor rooms.

Namely, MissBumpMe! and I are curious about transportation from/to PEK and the hotel, recent VIP upgrade success (diamond), and whether a rate of 105 USD/night in December is as low as it goes?

If you have any other advice, we're all ears!

Thank you!

I don't know about December, but I have reservations in Jan at $140. per night. I would be happy to see the $105. ;)

I know that they have not updated the prices and specials and are only showing good prices up to December 31st. Hope to see some price breaks show up soon.

I've stayed at this property several times, most recently in May. I just took a cab to the airport and seem to recall that it was only about $10. The $105 room rate sounds pretty reasonable. The best I've had is $120. As a Diamond I've always gotten a nice upgraded room. Ask for one of the newly refurbished rooms with the cool glass desk. There was some contsruction going on in May but not sure if it still ongoing.

PDX1K

PDX1K & grayland,

Thank you!
$105 it is!

Any trouble communicating to the Taxi driver?
We're trying Chinese, but will probably not quite get it to a conversational level by the time we go!

MissBumpMe! asks: Was the lounge worthy of a look? And, any ideas for seeing the Great Wall, maybe arranged through the concierge?

PDX1K & grayland,

Thank you!
$105 it is!

Any trouble communicating to the Taxi driver?
We're trying Chinese, but will probably not quite get it to a conversational level by the time we go!

MissBumpMe! asks: Was the lounge worthy of a look? And, any ideas for seeing the Great Wall, maybe arranged through the concierge?

I thought the lounge was among the better ones in the Hilton group. High up decent view, decent snacks and they'll make you a good capuchino. The Great Wall is a must. This wall is 3000+ miles long yet It seems that 95 percent of the tourists go the the Badaling section. :p

This wall is 3000+ miles long yet It seems that 95 percent of the tourists go the the Badaling section.

Any tours away from the Badaling section you can recommend?
Our initial search revealed Gray Line. but a closer review reveals it brings you to Badaling! Doh!

That's good news about the lounge.
It's always nice to have that as a refuge!

We've never been to China, so this will be a horizon-extending experience for us both.

Throughout my several stays during the last 3 years, as a Gold member I was upgraded to a standard Executive Floor room with lounge access basically every time. The lounge is nice and at the moment they are refurbishing it (should be completed already).

Always some choclates and a miniature bottle of VSOP in my room together with a personal note from the management.

The newly refurbished guest rooms are very nice, although all the room in general are a bit small.

Overall, Beijing hilton is a nice prperty with reliable upgrades.

I have stayed three nights this month in the Hilton in Beijing and there the food in the lounge is excellent. Tradtional Chinese food and every night something different. In the evening there are some cakes, which my GF judged as very very good. The service in the lounge is very good. There are many people running around and asking if you would like to drink something. But is was a little bit strange, that after 10 o´clock in the evening you have to pay for the alcoholic drinks. :confused:

The room was also excellent. Big flat screen TV and also a flat screen TV integrated in the bathroom wall. Small balcony with interesting view, I do not remeber the floor, but it was quite high.

In the evenings downstairs in the restaurant/pub they have a live music performance.

I must have lost on the day of departure one of my credit cards somewhere at the Hilton hotel but did not notice it. The Hilton send the credit card on their own cost to the Lufthansa Check in desk, where I got the credit card back. There was a Lufthansa staff walking aroung behind the check in desks with my credit card, waiting for me. I call this very good service from Hilton and Lufthansa! ^ Thank you Hilton Beijing and Lufthansa Beijing!

Any tours away from the Badaling section you can recommend?
Our initial search revealed Gray Line. but a closer review reveals it brings you to Badaling! Doh!

That's good news about the lounge.
It's always nice to have that as a refuge!

We've never been to China, so this will be a horizon-extending experience for us both.

We arranged our tours from the States before we left. Apparrently this is a highly competitive industry. Many tour guides working for large companies are free lancers working mainly for tips. So it is not unknown for them to offer to take you to a silk factory or herbal physician. you can always say no, but sometimes these side tracks can prove interesting. Anyhoo, if price matters to you, I would not consider using a hotel vehicle for your trips. A car driver and guide are most affordable from many tour companies. you can Google "inbound china tourism" to find a number of them. I'll be glad to answer any particular question (if I can).

Great!

Thanks, Artie & Winglet.
We've proscratinated a bit, but I remain hopeful we'll be able to book some tours in time for our arrival.

We'll be sure to report back.

another thing you might want to consider is to hire a private driver....which IMO is the only way to travel in Beijing.

my parents live in Beijing, and they have one private driver, but when I come into town with the rest of my family, they usually hire another......I'm not sure about the exact cost, but i'm sure its less than $100 USD a day....which makes it a super convient and nice way to get around to all the tourist and shopping sites.

Any suggestions on how one goes about hiring a private driver?
Tx.

Never stayed at the Hilton in Beijing but have seen the newly renovated rooms, which are quite nice.

For guides, drivers, restaurants, etc, you can check out:
http://www.thatsbj.com/index.php?a=5&b=199&c=
or
http://www.cityweekend.com.cn/en/beijing/classifieds/classifieds_cat/general_services

These are websites for local Expat magazines and are quite informative.

For private drivers, the rate would depend on where you plan to go and the type of vehical. For a 7 seater and full day trip to Great Wall and other locations, it will probably be about US$100 or less but certainly not more. You can also simply ask any taxi driver for this arrangement and they will gladly accept. However, note that I have only once met an English speaking driver in Beijing in 16 months, so this might not work for you.

Taxi by metre from Airport to Hilton should be around RMB 80 (US$ 10, inclusive of RMB 10 toll) and not more than RMB 100 even in bad traffic. FYI, I usually avoid the black taxis at the airport as they tend to insist on charging a flat fee of RMB 150 or more. However, if you come across any taxi drivers that you feel overcharges or cheats you in any way, just make sure you get a machine printed receipt ('fa piao' in Mandarin) before you get off. The concierge should be able to help you sort things out.

Feel free to check with me for other info on Beijing and I will try my best to help.

In China, prices (for anything) varies a lot. Just bear in mind: It is the right price, as long as you feel comfortable paying it.

And yes, US$105 is about as low as it gets in Hilton Beijing, which is about US$10 higher than a year ago to fund the renovation (insider information).

Thanks for the info Sungje. I have 3 nights at the Hilton Beijing 15 Jan thru 18 Jan...and then 3 more 21 Jan to 24 Jan.

I do have the 3 days between these two stays and am somewhat at a loss as to what to do. Nine days in Beijing seems a bit much but not sure where to go for the 3 days. Any suggestions?

If I had 3 free days, I would be out of China. But of cos this is coming from a foreigner living in Beijing. I guess visiting is really different from living here.

It really depends on what you're looking for. Unlike Shanghai, there aren't places like Suzhou or Hangzhou near Beijing, apart from maybe Tianjin, which you could usually get to with a Beijing Taxi (not all of them!). You could also try Dalian, which has more Japanese influence, or Harbin.

There are definitely activities in the outskirts of Beijing but if you are foreign and alone, not sure how easy it will be for you to get around. I'll be very honest and tell you that I have been to several spots outside of Beijing (some nice, some not), which I will never be able to get to without locals.

Since it is Jan and if you are into skiing, you could also spend a couple of days in a ski resort. An example is:
http://www.nanshanski.com/05nanshan/winter_e/zhusu.asp

There was some contsruction going on in May but not sure if it still ongoing.


I'm at the Hilton Beijing now (Jan 7 2006) and there seems to still be some construction noise still going on in the afternoons. I can hear it from my room and from the lounge.

I concur with all the previous comments about it being a nice hotel. Some more data points:
1) Depending on where you need to go, hotel is a little further away from the center. It is in, I believe, the Chaoyang district in the Northeast. Nearest subway station is Dong Zhi Men which is a 15 minute taxi ride in morning traffic.

2) I got a nice bottle of red wine in my room in a nice chinese qipao silk caddy with the Hilton logo embroidered on it. Nice touch.

3) There is an espresso machine in room. There is a fax machine and DVD player in room.

4) Nice hotel but if I had to quibble, toiletries could be better. Hair conditioner is useless and runny - very similar to the generic Hilton Europe ones. Be sure to look at the drawers in the bathroom for more toiletries (body lotion, shaving cream etc) - I missed these on the first night.

5) Hot water from shower always seems to take a while to warm up.

Edited to add: there is free wifi in the lounge as well

Once again the Hilton Beijing is under contruction from 8AM to 8PM. The used to be lobby is completely blocked off and reception is done at the rear of the hotel, entry is at the rear as well. Was told the construction will last until June. If you don't mind the constant air hammering, it is still a fine Hilton with great treatment for Golds and Diamonds.

Does anyone know when the Shanghai Hilton will renovate?
I had my 5th stay at the Hilton Shanghai in January. I asked if it was time to renovate but the Executive lounge staff hadn’t heard of any renovation plans. It’s a nice hotel but it really needs an upgrade.

Does anyone have an update on the construction here? I am planning a trip in June and do not want to stay in a construction site. Any advice?

Thanks

Does anyone have an update on the construction here? I am planning a trip in June and do not want to stay in a construction site. Any advice?

Thanks

I was there twice in January. There was some construction going on that did not in any way affect the hotel with noise or problems. You would have to go looking for the construction to find it. I don't know if this has changed but I don't think it has or I am sure someone would have posted a complaint.
Good luck. It is a pretty good hotel...not great, but OK. We were upgraded to Exec Floor with lounge access as Gold. Nice lounge with excellent staff and free WiFi as well as one free computer for use.

Does anyone have an update on the construction here? I am planning a trip in June and do not want to stay in a construction site. Any advice? Thanks

I just returned from a trip to China. I stayed 3 nights at the Inter-Continental Beijing as an Ambassador was upgraded to a club floor room. Then changed over to the other side of the city to Hilton for 5 nights. Was upgraded to a club-floor room as well. Rooms at both hotels were new or renovated lately. Lounges were good at both places. Hilton was still being renovated as we used a back door to enter the hotel and most restaurants were closed, expect for the lounge and a bar on top floor (25th). Other than that I wasn´t bothered by the renovation work.

If I had the choice between these two, I would definitely go to IC. Much bigger and nicer rooms. Pool was nicer too. And the lounge was even better than the good lounge at Hilton. But don´t get me wrong. There was nothing wrong with Hilton Beijing, just that IC was better.

You would have to go looking for the construction to find it.

...unless you had stay during the pre-construction days, in which case, the lack of a lobby would be noticeable.

we've continued to put guests up there during the renovation period in spite of the fact that they haven't given us any discounts beyond our agreement because we like the location and they always produce club level upgrades when pressed about the construction during the booking process. the club is very nice and almost makes up for the lack of a lobby, but like i told helsinki flyer before his hotel swap, i wouldn't stay there in a normal room (unless it was really cheap).

...unless you had stay during the pre-construction days, in which case, the lack of a lobby would be noticeable....
.

I stayed there twice in January and there was a very nice lobby and the construction was outside in a different area.

I stayed there twice in January and there was a very nice lobby and the construction was outside in a different area.

I wasn't hear in January, but as recently as last week the entire lobby/atrium was shuttered. The temporary arrangement consists of a "Days Inn" style lobby area around the back that is accessible through what appears to be a service entrance. However, if you're staying on club floor, you can shoot straight up to the 24th floor and check in there, which -- as previously noted -- is nice.

I don't typically use hotel laundries as they're usually too expensive, but it would be very convenient if the rate here were reasonable. Anyone used the service at the hotel that can shed some light on prices or is there someplace else fast and cheap nearby? Thanks.

I did use the hotel laundry earlier this year during one of the times we were there. I can't recall anything much about the price and assume that it was not too far out of bounds or I would remember it. :D

the hilton's laundry rates aren't overly extortionate, but if you want to be nice to your employer or client, i suggest you use the laundry place around the corner (just past the foot massage place).

the hilton's laundry rates aren't overly extortionate, but if you want to be nice to your employer or client, i suggest you use the laundry place around the corner (just past the foot massage place).


Absolutely. As a "carry-on only" guy I use laundry service all of the time. But when I am anywhere in China I use the local service closest to the hotel. You CAN NOT BEAT the prices (I think I paid .30 per pound last week) and your cloths look and feel great. They have laundry to a science.

It shouldn't be too hard to find a Chinese laundry in Beijing :)

Polite bump.

Any data points?

call or send an e-mail to the property. They probably know :rolleyes:

It shouldn't be too hard to find a Chinese laundry in Beijing :)

Perhaps you should go work for Abercrombie (http://http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2002/04/18/MN109646.DTL)

I can't recall anything much about the price and assume that it was not too far out of bounds or I would remember it. :D

I too used the laundry at the hotel and the only thing I remember was it was reasonable (as hotel prices go) for shirts and a little expensive for underclothes. After a 2 week stay, I rang up something like $40 in laundry charges (no dry-cleaning) which gave me some pause when filling out the expense report.

The foot massage place that anoter poster suggested is probably the one behind the hotel above the Hunan (or Szechuan) restaurant. You can see it from the lounge windows. I would ask the people in the executive lounge - the staff that work the late shift actually stay in the hotel dormitory so they know the area very well.

Update:

I had several questions about our upcoming stay so I emailed the hotel and asked about laundry. Hotel's reply had an attached 11 MB (!) bitmap with laundry/dry cleaning charges.

Laundry:

Shirt, blouse, jacket, dress, skirt, pants, jeans = 50 RMB
T-shirt, sweater, shorts = 35 RMB
Undershirt, underpants, bra, panties, socks = 20 RMB

Dry cleaning:

Jacket, dress, pants, coat, blouse, shirt, suit = 60 RMB

I was hoping it would be cheaper. Guess I'll try the laundry place around the corner. Any English spoken there? Although I guess it's pretty simple to hand over laundry and indicate on a calendar you'd like it next day.

Thanks again to everyone for the advice.

I am in the executive lounge right now (7/7 -06) and the renovation is almost done now. The hotel seems great and the renovated rooms are very nice. I never stayed here before the renovation in fact this is mu first stay here so I can't give you any comparison but the rooms are very nice and modern furnished. In the rooms (at least the executive ones) there are a espresso coffemaker. I've oly seen those in the swissotel Berlin before... The lounge is great with a wide selection of wines,beers, spirits and food (cold and warm). There are free wireless here also. I must recommed this hotel very good value for money all since I got a cheap rate 840 RMB++/night off Hilton.com
I was upgraded to the newly renovated executive floor plus that I was given a welcome ammenity ; a fruit plate a small bottle of VSOP Remy Martin and some assorted chocolates.

Thumbs up Beijing Hilton

Checking back to see if anyone has stayed at the Hilton Beijing this summer and what the status of everything/construction is?

Checking back to see if anyone has stayed at the Hilton Beijing this summer and what the status of everything/construction is?

I spent six nights there in July. They opened the new lobby and restaurant (Elements) on our second night. I believe the restaurant Louisiana was supposed to open about three weeks later (so should be open now). I have one of the restaurant service director's email around here somewhere, so let me know if you want it and I'll try to dig it up.

The new lobby is very nice; there is also a new small club for drinks off the lobby. You can have breakfast in the exec lounge (if you book an exec room or get upgraded, obviously) or in Elements, which has an extensive buffet. They also have an interesting dinner buffet; you order one of maybe six or seven mains, then it's all you can eat from various appetizer (both Eastern and Western selections), salad, bread, and dessert stations. It's was fairly affordable as I recall and the food was good. You could make a substantial meal out of the warm appetizer station by itself.

However there is still some work going on, but I couldn't quite figure out what they had planned. The put up a brick wall in the front courtyard/driveway, blocking off a huge section where a lot of demolition was done. Not a lot of noise when we were there except for one night when the demolition crew worked through the night hauling off the last bits of scrap metal.

The exec floor rooms are very nice, as is the exec lounge. The service was excellent, from the housekeeping staff, the front desk/concierge, and the exec floor staff. Had a much better experience here overall than at the Hilton Osaka, where we spent four nights. Great hotel.

Had 3 separate weekend stays in July. Renovation in the original building was done by the last stay and all F&B areas were complete too. Rooms and exec lounge were both good. Jerry at the exec lounge is extremely helpful.

The gym and pool seems to be the weakest link right now but I have no major complaints about it. Service is good all round although the staff outside the main entrance always seem to be a bit disorganized.

They were tearing down an old section at the front (next to the 3rd ring road) and I think they are building a new tower. Was not affected by the construction (or should it be deconstruction) apart from occasional disturbance when at restaurants in the day.

Overall a good hotel that takes care of elite members.

They were tearing down an old section at the front (next to the 3rd ring road) and I think they are building a new tower.

That is very interesting...A new tower. I thought the building has only one main building to began with, am I wrong? :confused:

The gym and pool seems to be the weakest link right now but I have no major complaints about it. Service is good all round although the staff outside the main entrance always seem to be a bit disorganized.


I will be here on a leisure trip. So am curious as to how the swimming pool is. The web site has a picture of the whirlpool, but not the swimming pool. Is it on the small size/shallow, etc? A pool is always considered a big deal for my daughter.

The web site mentions a tour desk also. Should I use this or try someone else?

Thanks very much in advance for your help.

The web site mentions a tour desk also. Should I use this or try someone else?

Here's the rates I was quoted by the hotel:

For car rental, to the Great Wall of Mutianyu, it is RMB1400.00 for Audi A6. And for city sightseeing, it is RMB300 per hour, RMB850 for half day(within 4 hours, 50KM), and RMB1300 for whole day(within 8 hours, 100KM).

So it's pretty pricey.

In the city you're better off just grabbing taxis, which are very inexpensive.

A FTer arranged a car for us to Mutianyu for RMB600 for a Honda Accord and a great driver. PM me if you want his name.

I'm going to Beijing for the first time, with Mrs. Nollag, next month. We are flying out from Beijing early on our last day.

I was thinking of booking the Hilton Beijing on the last night before flying back home.

A few questions …

How easy is it to get to the airport or the city centre from the hotel? How much would a cab be?

Is it any good? What's b/fast like?

Do they upgrade us Diamond HH folk ?

I'm going to Beijing for the first time, with Mrs. Nollag, next month. We are flying out from Beijing early on our last day.

I was thinking of booking the Hilton Beijing on the last night before flying back home.

A few questions …

How easy is it to get to the airport or the city centre from the hotel? How much would a cab be?

Is it any good? What's b/fast like?

Do they upgrade us Diamond HH folk ?

You'll likely get a single level upgrade (eg regular to deluxe) but not beyond that.

Breakfast was pretty decent although not as good as at Hyatt in part because of tight space.

It is MUCH easier (20 min or so) to get to BJS from Hilton than from the city center area. Don't remember the cab fare but it was inexpensive. Getting to other points in Beijing will depend on traffic that can be truly awful.

YBreakfast was pretty decent although not as good as at Hyatt in part because of tight space.

It is MUCH easier (20 min or so) to get to BJS from Hilton than from the city center area. Don't remember the cab fare but it was inexpensive.

I'd suggest breakfast on the second floor in the recently-opened restaurant Elements rather than the lounge if you need more space. It was free there as well (Diamond) and a very extensive spread.

Cab from the airport was 54RMB plus 10RMB toll and took 26 minutes. I still have the receipt. :D

Thanks for this guys !!

Nollag:

The hotel is on the 3rd ring road, near the Embassy and Sanlitun districts. I trip down to Tianamen Sq. is about 15 minutes (not in rush hour) and will run a small amount (all cab fares in Beijing seem miniscule to me). I would imagine you could cab it all around the city, see everything you want to see for less than 100 RMB for the day.

I don't know where the comment about space is coming from - unless the comment is on eating breakfast in the Hhonors Lounge, the remodel that recently opened makes the breakfast area in the restaurant on 2 pretty spacious, all in all. Ask for a room on a high floor as construction next door continues apace (24/7).

When you go, you should definitely go right next door for a massage - you can get a discount coupon in the restaurant on the lower floor (specialty from Mao Zedong's Hometown), they are owned by the same people.

Lastly, I overlooked the fact that you are a diamond. You will get upgraded as far as they have space for you. Don't hesitate to e-mail the reservations desk directly and beg - they respond nicely. Make sure you get your stuffed panda.

Earlier this year I was upgraded to Executive Floor as a Gold and new to Hilton. The lounge served a hot breakfast with cooked to order eggs.
Always a couple of hot dishes in the evening. There were a lot of people in the lounge...but always enough room.
I am not sure if the remodel affected the lounge..but don't know why it would have.

We hired a taxi for the day a couple of times. Very inexpensive. The trick is to find one who speaks a little English. It is great to have easy transportation to the Great Wall, Forbidden City, etc.

Earlier this year I was upgraded to Executive Floor as a Gold and new to Hilton. The lounge served a hot breakfast with cooked to order eggs.
Always a couple of hot dishes in the evening. There were a lot of people in the lounge...but always enough room.
I am not sure if the remodel affected the lounge..but don't know why it would have.

We hired a taxi for the day a couple of times. Very inexpensive. The trick is to find one who speaks a little English. It is great to have easy transportation to the Great Wall, Forbidden City, etc.
On a business trip this summer I was upgraded to Execfloor as GOLD, had booked a Deluxe room. Exec lounge and rooms very nice...

Nollag:

The hotel is on the 3rd ring road, near the Embassy and Sanlitun districts. I trip down to Tianamen Sq. is about 15 minutes (not in rush hour) and will run a small amount (all cab fares in Beijing seem miniscule to me). I would imagine you could cab it all around the city, see everything you want to see for less than 100 RMB for the day.

I don't know where the comment about space is coming from - unless the comment is on eating breakfast in the Hhonors Lounge, the remodel that recently opened makes the breakfast area in the restaurant on 2 pretty spacious, all in all. Ask for a room on a high floor as construction next door continues apace (24/7).

When you go, you should definitely go right next door for a massage - you can get a discount coupon in the restaurant on the lower floor (specialty from Mao Zedong's Hometown), they are owned by the same people.

Lastly, I overlooked the fact that you are a diamond. You will get upgraded as far as they have space for you. Don't hesitate to e-mail the reservations desk directly and beg - they respond nicely. Make sure you get your stuffed panda.


They will generally upgrade even Gold VIP members. For those who want to try non-hotel but tasty dinner, there is adjacent Hunan restaurant (30-second walk to the left of hotel as you exit, if I remember correctly) that serves much cheaper prices for authentec Hunan cuisine (e.g. Mao Zedong style).

Taxi fare to/from airport can range between 60rmb to 90rmb depending on how busy traffic is. Generally taxi drivers are good, but sometimes you can get unlucky with a shady driver. I once was charged excessive fee by taxi driver (who was regular in the taxi queue at Hilton), and after I complained to Hilton front desk to vent, they took initiative to get my money back (based on my taxi receipt, to track down taxi driver via police registration!), and banned the shady taxi driver from being able to pick up passengers at Hilton.

For those who want to try non-hotel but tasty dinner, there is adjacent Hunan restaurant (30-second walk to the left of hotel as you exit, if I remember correctly) that serves much cheaper prices for authentec Hunan cuisine (e.g. Mao Zedong style).

When were you last there? I only ask because if you walk out the front of the Hilton and turn left, most, if not all, of that area is a huge construction pit all the way from the Hilton to the Lufthansa Center (which has a great grocery store in the basement that I learned about here on FT ^ ).

When were you last there? I only ask because if you walk out the front of the Hilton and turn left, most, if not all, of that area is a huge construction pit all the way from the Hilton to the Lufthansa Center (which has a great grocery store in the basement that I learned about here on FT ^ ).

More than two years ago, so I stand corrected. I guess given the pace of Beijing construction to get ready for 2008 Olympics, I should have tried to verify first, but I could not check google maps because it doesn't support Beijing :p

When were you last there? I only ask because if you walk out the front of the Hilton and turn left, most, if not all, of that area is a huge construction pit all the way from the Hilton to the Lufthansa Center (which has a great grocery store in the basement that I learned about here on FT ^ ).

The restaurant is the one I refer to in my post with the massage place above it. It is "technically" directly behind the hotel. By turning left, the poster means a hard left out of the entrance along the road that services the Hilton - not the main drag.

The restaurant is the one I refer to in my post with the massage place above it. It is "technically" directly behind the hotel. By turning left, the poster means a hard left out of the entrance along the road that services the Hilton - not the main drag.

Thanks for the information. I considered that, particularly since when we arrived (July 3) the renovated lobby had not yet opened (opened July 4 or 5, can't recall exactly) and the temporary entrance was on the service road. A left out of that entrance would indeed take you in the right direction.

Just returned from the Beijing Hilton. Was originally placed in a room on the front side of the hotel on a Sunday. Monday morning's construction noise was horrendous but exec level staff cheerly moved me to the backside of the hotel. Lobby and restaurants are all finished. Plenty of equipment in the gym and the pool is a decent size. Overall, I thought it was a good hotel and the executive level staff were excellent, especially Brennus.

We also recently enjoyed a 5 night stay at the Beijing Hilton. The remodeled executive lounge is very comfortable. The only nit is that the free laptop provided for internet is woefully underconfigured and therefore very slow.

The construction continued every day we were there, including Sunday. The lobby was an extremely noisy place to be whenever the jackhammers were going.

Traffic in Beijing has certainly gotten much worse since my last visit. Fortunately on Sunday traffic was minimal and we were able to move around the city very easily. Next time we go the new subway lines ought to be open greatly reducing time spent in taxis.

Traffic in Beijing has certainly gotten much worse since my last visit. Fortunately on Sunday traffic was minimal and we were able to move around the city very easily. Next time we go the new subway lines ought to be open greatly reducing time spent in taxis.

What time frame are the new subway lines scheduled to open?

I was there in early sept, makes the hotel look terrible - although nois was ok

Has anyone stayed at the Hilton Beijing during the construction? The website says they'll be done by August and I'll be staying there at the start of September.

Does anyone know if the construction affects the rooms themselves, or the lobby and surrounding areas?

What time frame are the new subway lines scheduled to open?

before the olympics, for sure. but, for me it doesn't matter a whole lot because the subways are miserable enough and the taxis cheap enough to give the nod the latter in almost every situation. plus, if you have to transfer (and you certainly will coming from the hilton), the time savings will be minimal, even during the harshest traffic.

speaking of which, traffic has been quite tolerable during the past several weeks (i know last week was a holiday, but this week is good too). plus, the air quality is great. october is a good month.

Will the construction be over in November, 15-18?

No - but the construction is nothing to worry you about. As a diamond you should be given a room far away from any noise.

I'll be in Beijing from Dec 18 to Dec 22. Currently, I am considering whether I'll stay in Hilton Beijing or The Great Wall Sheraton. Does anyone know if the construction at Hilton is complete?

Hi All,

Any reasonably up to date info. out there on how the Hilton Beijing will treat HHonors Golds? Many thanks.

...any info out there please??....

Am currently at the Beijing Hilton. Can't complain so far, got an upgrade to a junior suite for a weeklong stay, all the executive lounge benefits were granted without hestitation. The room has a new feel to it, even though I from what I read here the remodeled rooms have been completed for a little while now.

Breakfast in the morning is fine, selection somewhat limited but still cooked-to-order eggs. Will be seeing what the evening part is like.

Does anyone have an active working e-mail address for the Hilton Beijing?

Does anyone have an active working e-mail address for the Hilton Beijing?

These worked in July 2006:

beijing@hilton.com

Molly.Huangfu@hilton.com

These worked in July 2006:

beijing@hilton.com

Molly.Huangfu@hilton.com

Thanks!

Any recent experiences about upgrades as Gold. I have a booking for a Deluxe Plus room with Breakfast (and Dinner). What are the chances given availability for an upgrade (or lounge access)...

Just spent 4 nights at the Beijing Hilton April 29-May 3 using points. Lounge access (which includes breakfast and afternoon/early evening alcoholic drinks and munchies) was readily given for a gold member. Construction near the hotel is still going strong so can be noisy but the hotel has no control over the noise as it is not on property. You should try to get a room that ends in '05' as those are oversized rooms with a balcony. I was not impressed with their 'upgraded' room and spent a long time at the front desk. The personnel there seemed clueless.

Has anyone made use of the VIP Arrival Concierge service that the Hilton Beijing offers? Apparently, it's an aircraft-gate-through-customs service where they help you go through the No Stop Speed Lane so you don't have to wait in line for customs.

I'm not familiar with the Beijing airport and don't know how long the wait normally is, or how confusing the airport and customs are, and whether this service is needed if you're not pressed for time when you get off the plane (or if you're not an actual VIP ;) ).

Thanks.

Does anyone have any experience or information regarding the Beijing Tours that you can get from the Honors Experience Awards? I saw them for the first time today, and have a stay at the Hilton booked for the second week of August.

Does anyone have any experience or information regarding the Beijing Tours that you can get from the Honors Experience Awards? I saw them for the first time today, and have a stay at the Hilton booked for the second week of August.

I found that a local (Beijing) tour operator provided very reasonable tours locally and throughout China. You are probably better off saving your points.
;)

Just wondering if anyone has any recent stays or reports from the Bejing Hilton. I am debating between a stay there in July with my family (first trip to Bejing) or staying at the new Westin Beijing Chaoyang. I am Gold with Hilton and Platinum with Starwood. Both stays would be with points. Any first hand recommendations would be appreciated.

Just wondering if anyone has any recent stays or reports from the Bejing Hilton. I am debating between a stay there in July with my family (first trip to Bejing) or staying at the new Westin Beijing Chaoyang. I am Gold with Hilton and Platinum with Starwood. Both stays would be with points. Any first hand recommendations would be appreciated.

I think I replied to another thread in which you asked a similar question. Even though the Westin isn't complete yet (and I have doubts about a May launch), from the looks of it, it is substantially better than the Hilton (better than the St. Regis, even). I would also argue that the location is a little better as well (but, this is a YMMV issue).

These worked in July 2006:

beijing@hilton.com

Molly.Huangfu@hilton.com

I know Molly was still there as of Aug 2007.

Anyone familliar with this property? If so, please share your thoughts regarding location and service etc.

Anyone familliar with this property? If so, please share your thoughts regarding location and service etc.

Do a search & you'll find there are two dedicated threads for this property:

Hilton Beijing hotel Trip Reports and Reviews (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=352035)

Hilton Beijing hotel (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=131919)

also.........

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g294212-d305313-Reviews-Hilton_Beijing-Beijing.html

What info do you have on the VIP Arrival Concierge service that the Hilton Beijing offers?

Has anyone used this service?

What is involved?

Do you request it through the hotel?

What are the costs?

Is it complementary for their Gold and Diamond level clients?

thanks for your input,

Bob

The Hilton Beijing has lot's of prostitutes in the bar, though I'm nor sure if that's one of the services the concierge offers.

What info do you have on the VIP Arrival Concierge service that the Hilton Beijing offers?

Has anyone used this service?

What is involved?

Do you request it through the hotel?

What are the costs?

Is it complementary for their Gold and Diamond level clients?

thanks for your input,

Bob

I think this is just the typical airport pickup service. AFAIK, it's not complimentary to elites.

Just did a stay at Hilton (could see Westin across the street so location is pretty much the same--both have great access to airport expressway).

Upgraded to Exec level standard room but it was nicely remodelled (haven't been here for four years). They recognized me as a returning visitor.

Upgraded the wine (a cheap Wolf Blass Shiraz, but still better than previous offering) that is gifted on arrival--also had more chocolates as well as cashews, M&Ms etc. No fruit basket though (always enjoyed this).

Buffet breakfast downstairs or in exec floor lounge, still great breakfast.

Free internet in exec lounge but not room, although I was able to get onto a free wireless site from room anyway.

Very gracious service--afternoon tea/sandwiches in exec lounge, also happy hour with free drinks.

See

http://www.asiatraveltips.com/news08/266-HiltonBeijing.shtml

Are there any reports of recent stays?



Adjoining the main hotel building, the unique cylindrical Executive Tower offers the complete package for both business and leisure travellers with luxurious modern rooms alongside state-of-the-art amenities and services.

Comprised entirely of Executive rooms and suites, the Tower has 126 rooms spread over nine floors, taking the total room inventory at the Hilton Beijing to 503. The new rooms and suites range in size from 41-square-meters to 165-square-meters, with a number of specialty suites including deluxe 9th floor Executive Junior Suites, as well as the luxurious Chairman’s Suite. The building will also have an ‘Executive Plus’ Lounge on level 3, the “Infiniti” round ballroom on the ground floor, several Hilton Meeting rooms.

Hilton Beijing General Manager Mr Vlad Reyes said Hilton was pleased to be opening the Executive Tower prior to the Beijing Olympics, and the new development would serve the hotel well into the future.

“Over our many years in China, Hilton has seen the business travel sector grow and we anticipate that to continue. With premium facilities and Hilton’s excellent location in Beijing, the Executive Tower will allow us to build on Hilton’s popularity among business travellers and cement our position as Beijing’s leading business hotel.”

Other notable features of Hilton Beijing’s Executive Tower:

- Guestrooms designed by notable interior design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates and feature the acclaimed Hilton Serenity beds and ergonomically designed furniture, including a large work desk and chair.

- The entire Executive Tower is equipped with broadband WiFi access and rooms feature additional technology including state-of-the-art LCD televisions in the living area and bathroom, and BOSE CD players with alarm clock and MP3 compatibility.

- For the ultimate in home theatre experience, The Chairman’s Suite also features a Bang & Olufsen sound system and speakers.

- Building on Hilton Beijing’s already extensive meeting and function facilities, the new Executive Tower features an additional five multi-purpose function rooms, ranging in size from 30-square-metres to 120-square-metres, offering flexible space arrangements and state-of-the-art facilities

I didn't stay in the Executive Tower (was just about to open) but did visit the exec lounge in the Tower on the ground floor which was open. VERY POSH but I like the city view from the old exec lounge.

Will the old lounge be kept open?

Not sure but I must presume so since it would be quite crowded if both towers of rooms used only one lounge I suspect

Not sure what they are doing with the old lounge--haven't ventured over to the old tower. New tower rooms are nice (all of them) although they all face the busy 3rd ring road so seem a bit more noisy than some of the quieter rooms in the old tower--if you like quiet, opt for a room in the old tower. Seems they all had a recent makeover so are not too shabby either.

Lounge is open 6AM to 11 PM with snacks of some sort and drinks served throughout, free alcohol and a better selection of hot, cold food and desserts only from 6-8:30 PM though. If you just want a light dinner, you could survive on the offerings.

Seem to have a broader selection of liquors now. Overall I have been happy and cancelled my 5000 point per night PointsBreak reward booking at Lido Holiday Inn as a result.^

Had chocolates cookies and a Wolf Blass Syrah as first night amenity. Fruit throughout the day in the lounge so I guess I don't miss the fruit basket that used to come to the room.

I would love to see a comparison between this hotel and the Hilton Wangfujing. Planning a 7 night stay in Beijing in mid April.

I've stayed at both in the last 2 months. Beijing Hilton is one of the long standing 5 star hotels, but it's in the northeast of Beijing on the 3rd ring road. The new executive lounge and rooms in the round wing are quite nice, but a bit noisier than tower rooms. The tower rooms that have been refurbished are also nice, but smaller. Service I've found in this hotel is great, and there's enough going on that there's a buzz to the place.

The new Hilton Wangfujing has a VERY soft opening now and probably won't have a grand opening until March. I've written a review on the thread for it. It's centrally located for shopping, Forbidden City, etc, but it's dead. There's nobody in the restaurants or the small lounge in the lobby. The rooms are nice, but the lobby is small and everything is still under construction, including the entrance steps and spa/pool.

So it really comes down to where do you need to be in Beijing? By mid April the Wangfujing hotel should be completely ready to open.

There is good access to one of the metro lines just across from the Lufthansa center, about a 5 minute, one long block walk from the Beijing Hilton hotel. Access to airport, Sanlitun embassy district and a lot of good restaurants in Chaoyangmen area (within about 10 minute taxi ride max) from Hilton Beijing.

From metro station you can get to anywhere you want to be in Beijing fairly quickly. I still recommend taxi for airport--not worth the hassle of lugging luggage down the stairs at the subway! (even if it is just carryon).

If you have something to add (or something I missed in my brief review of this property) please add to this thread, thank you!


http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/travelbuzz/903004-hotels-beijing-compare-among-hilton-starwood-pc-hotel-award-choices.html#post10963291

Hello All:

I am planning on staying at the Hilton Beijing and dropping 255K points on a going global reward for 12 nights.

I was wondering for other diamond members if you've ever been upgraded to a suite and not merely their exec room?

I knew gold people that were upgraded to a suite for writing a letter?

Any thoughts?

Thanks

ok so a serious response ;)

Quite often if you book a paid rate for a club level room or an upgraded room or suite for the beginning of your stay, and then tack on some award nights, the property has the common sense and decency not to ask you to move. Of course this depends on occupancy level first, and vagaries of the specific property too.

Two stays in 2008. No suite, but UG to Exec level. They treat you super well. Check-in on Exec level, they bring you food/drinks while they check you in. Rooms super nice, letter of welcome, wine, they test your fax machine, snacks, robe, little panda etc.

Best treatment as HH Diamond.

Hello All:

I am planning on staying at the Hilton Beijing and dropping 255K points on a going global reward for 12 nights.

I was wondering for other diamond members if you've ever been upgraded to a suite and not merely their exec room?

I knew gold people that were upgraded to a suite for writing a letter?

Any thoughts?

Thanks

One stay 2006 - still Gold VIP - booked standard - got executive room

One stay 2007 - still Gold VIP - booked executive - got a two room executive suite, entrance right to the lounge front desk

Was welcomed at main entrance, accompanied to executive level, Check in at executive lounge, drinks, very very friendly - as a Diamond now they probably treat me/you like God!

Best service of all Hiltons in Asia, some restaurants, one of it 24h open, club disco, etc.

I doubt you will get UG to a suite for a 12-night stay. I did manage to get 1 suite UG at Hilton Beijing w/o requesting it, but it was only a 1 night stay.

I have stayed at this property dozens of times over the past 7 years and rarely got a suite upgrade (2 or 3 times as I recall. Having said that, the new Executive Tower rooms are quite spacious and I have always been upgraded at Beijing Hilton to Executive floors (either in the old tower before or more recently in the new tower).

One stay 2006 - still Gold VIP - booked standard - got executive room

One stay 2007 - still Gold VIP - booked executive - got a two room executive suite, entrance right to the lounge front desk

Was welcomed at main entrance, accompanied to executive level, Check in at executive lounge, drinks, very very friendly - as a Diamond now they probably treat me/you like God!

Best service of all Hiltons in Asia, some restaurants, one of it 24h open, club disco, etc.

one and two night stays

So 12 nights is too many? I was there last year and it was wonderful but I became buddy buddy with the cleaning staff and they showed me the junior suites, executive suite and the presidential suite - the latter of which was the most ...... / awesome suite I've seen in my life - but it cost 20,000 RMB ~ 3k US / night. I don't think if you book the suite below it you'll get upgraded to this because the difference is huge probably. Looks like a suite for wedding nights.

So - what you're saying is that if I book 2 nights at a higher room level then 10 nights with points, they will keep me at the higher room type the whole time? That would be awesome - probably the best use of points I can imagine - because the suites are NICE. I was in exec room, which was nice - but after seeing the suites, I felt like I was missing something =/.

Like I said earlier, I met a guy in the lounge, he was an older gentlement and before he came, he wrote a letter (hand written) - and then he was upgraded to a suite.

Imma give this a try. Both the 2 nights thing and the letter thing.

I will stay five nights at this hotel in mid April. Does anyone have an email adress to the hotel?

I will stay five nights at this hotel in mid April. Does anyone have an email adress to the hotel?

beijing@hilton.com

This also worked in 2006:

Molly.Huangfu@hilton.com

My parents will be in Beijing in October. As HH Gold, can they expect to have access to the executive lounge?

FT Rocks!

Thanks,

I'd like to say yes, but my recent stays have been as a diamond. The new executive rooms and expanded lounge are terrific. Anyone been given access recently as a gold?

Just returned from a 2-night weekend stay at the Beijing Hilton as a gold and was upgraded to a small room with executive lounge access. The breakfast and the happy hour (from 6p - 8:30pm) were more than ample.

Was just there for 1 night and 4 nights and had the usual wonderful stay.

At 667 RMB + tax rates, a real steal!

As diamond upgraded to Exec tower with lounge access and breakfast in lounge or in Elements restaurant on 2nd Floor. 667 RMB rate included breakfast anyway! I was travelling with a group and booked them all rooms as non-members and they still got good rooms and enjoyed the great breakfast in Elements.