China World Hotel, Beijing

Hotel description

Though you’d never guess it from the vaguely institutional name, the China World Hotel is actually a Shangri-La property — with all the luxury trappings that high-end brand entails. Located in the diplomatic precinct, its United Nations-inspired exterior doesn’t promise a whole lot of style, but fortunately its exterior is just as misleading as its name.

In the lobby, the glitz of marble and gold chandeliers threatens to overstimulate the senses, but beyond the public spaces things get a lot more sedate. Rooms are a mellow combination of tans, golds and warm wood panelling, livened by contemporary art, pillows-to-order, free internet and ergonomic workspaces — essentially everything you need to be both comfortable and productive. Guests up-sizing to club rooms also get the benefit of picture windows with impressive skyscraper views and the almost indecently late check-out time of 6pm.

Nearby are all the major business and tourist venues, like the Forbidden City and the World Trade Complex, and the underground is within walking distance for those going to Tiananmen Square. Back at base, a heated indoor pool and fully equipped gym will appeal to corporate guests wanting to burn off their business lunch while an oxygen room — the only one in Beijing — offers a unique way to detox after a day touring the inner city.