Stayed here for 4 nights at the beginning of April. It was overall the best place we stayed in our 2 week holiday despite the place being in the midst of renovations.

We initially booked an upgraded room at the back courtyard however on arrival the staff apologised saying their renovations were not yet finalised in that area and although we could stay in the suites we would endure some noise from the builders. So we decided to stay in one of the standard rooms located in the very nice front courtyard. The refurb in these rooms had just been completed so our room had a sparkling shower room and was beautifully furnished plus the mattresses were perfect.

I thought it would be noisy but either the builders were very quiet or they didn't start until a bit later. We were only woken up one night by one of the guests banging on our neighbour's door but aside from that its a very peaceful location.

Overall a great authentic place to stay, english speaking staff, close to shopping area and next to metro station - I would definitely return.

Wonderful little hotel - we had a room in the back courtyard and it was truly lovely. Close to the subway - so we had no problems getting around. The included breakfast was delicious and the staff was very courteous and helpful. The only reason I give a 4 instead of a 5 is that we were a bit chilly - an extra blanket solved the problem, but even though the room was heated, not an ideal spot in winter, I'd say.

This hotel deserves a whole lot of credit, as it was one of the main reasons why our trip to Beijing in September 2007 was so pleasant and successful.

We must say that this is the most charming and unique hotels we have ever stayed in. The hotel itself is a bit worn on the outside, but the very nicely decorated and super clean rooms and the lovely courtyard wasere even better than we expected.

We really enjoyed returning to the hotel after a day in the very busy city of Beijing with all its noisy traffic and crowds of people everywhere. As soon as we entered the courtyard, noises from the city were gone and you simply wouldn’t believe that you were in the middle of one of the world’s biggest cities.

The hotel was quiet and had a very relaxed atmosphere. Some nights we enjoyed our dinner in the courtyard under the big old trees and really felt that we got a great sense of how live must have been like in Beijing before all the cars, tourists and big hotels changed the city completely.

The staff was very polite and would do anything to make you feel comfortable and at home. They always had one person on duty who spoke English and who could help us by writing down names of sights and streets in Chinese which we could give to the cab drivers when we went out sightseeing.

The location was also really great as it was right next to a big shopping area where you could easily catch a cab or even walk to some of the famous sights. The area felt very safe even at night and having heard so much about Beijing being a very dirty city we were pleasantly surprised as not only this area but all of Beijing really was very clean.

Do book your stay at this hotel if you want to add authentic Chinese charm to you stay in the evolving city of Beijing.

I have stayed here twice this year. It may not have flash bars or restaurants but it does have tremendous charm and character with extremely helpful and courteous staff. I highly recommend this hotel and in particular room 24.

The adventurous should also consider hiring a bicycle to explore the real Beijing.

Stephen Leonard
Bermuda