With a history that dates back half a million years, Beijing has long been considered the political, cultural and educational center of the People’s Republic of China. As the host of the 2008 Summer Olympics, Beijing’s bizarre mix of traditional imperial Chinese architecture and tall modern buildings offers visitors a glimpse into a rapidly-changing China. This period of change is apparent in the hundreds of hotels in Beijing, some part of international chains of five-star accommodations and others budget hotels located in the heart of old Beijing.
Most Beijing hotels are located close to its major tourist attractions, including the Forbidden City (also known as the Palace Museum), the Tiananmen Square, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace. These historical landmarks have remained relatively untouched over the years, even as new buildings emerged all around them, and no visit to Beijing is complete without a journey back in time. Just ninety minutes outside of Beijing is the Badaling section of the Great Wall of China. Hutongs, Beijing’s ancient alleyways where much of traditional architecture is preserved, can be visited on bicycles, one of the best ways to explore the city. (Most major hotels in Beijing, as well as some hostels, offer a bicycle rental service.)
Getting around Beijing requires a bit of foresight and most taxi drivers do not speak enough English to understand visiting foreigners. It is recommended that visitors print out names of various destinations they plan to see (and their addresses) in Chinese characters. This includes the name and address of the hotel. Beijing also has an extensive subway system, with maps and signs in English, so the more adventurous traveler may enjoy the challenge.
Accommodations in Beijing are available to suit any budget, with an endless number of small hostels and guest houses close to tourist attractions and hutongs. For the business traveler or those looking for a little luxury, Beijing is also home to a number of internationally-recognized five-star hotels.