8/10 Very good
23 March 2012
Great Location and Friendly Staff
Advice for anyone who has not been to China before:
Beds are always hard - that's how people like it in China
Bathrooms are usually stinky - Its the current state of the nations plumbing
I lived in Beijing and recently came back to visit. After staying w/friends I thought it might be nice to stay in a hotel for the rest of the trip. Having already stayed there in a summer's past, I decided to stay at the Courtel again, this time in the winter. Its a great place! Its across the street from the Andingmen subway and walking distance to Lama Temple, hutongs, chuanr, and even a few shops, coffee houses, bars and other expat hangouts. They do serve a "western" breakfast which is convenient (although not the tastiest) and the staff is extremely friendly and helpful.
Bonus: working AC and heat. I love the ambiance - the courtyard rooms instead of yet another highrise is a real treat and there's always travelers from all over willing to spark friendly conversation. I believe the hotel even has tours to sign up for to the great wall, to see acrobat shows, etc. etc. etc.
While it isn't the cleanest joint in town, its a lot cleaner than a lot of joints and I'd stay there again. Keep in mind you are in China. Expectations and priorities aren't always the same as what you might find elsewhere but keep in mind different isn't always bad :).
PS - they have water jugs in every courtyard for drinking - very convenient since you can't drink the tap in Beijing.
Amber
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