Atop China’s largest shopping complex, Oriental Plaza, and only a short walk from Beijing’s Forbidden City, the Grand Hyatt Lays claim to the ultimate location in town. Set in the centre of Beijing’s business and commercial district, it has become an ideal base for business and leisure travellers alike. Within the prestigious Oriental Plaza, some 120,000 sqm (1.3 million sq ft) are dedicated to boutiques, cafes and restaurants in one of the most popular shopping destinations in the capital.
A short walk through the picturesque Changpu River Park leads to the city’s major attractions which include Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven and Wangfujing shopping street.
The spacious interior is flooded with light, and full-length windows throughout the hotel offer impressive views of the city. Blending Western and Asian influences, guest rooms are stylishly simple with rich woods, crisp white linens, suede sofas and artwork from local and Asian artists. Deluxe rooms offer separate dining and living area with a kitchenette and private bar. For added decadence, the Grand Hyatt’s Diplomatic Suites are fully equipped apartments with a spacious living area and even include a 107-cm (42-inch) flatscreen television, DVD, CD and MP3 players, and an in-room fax.
A suite butler is on hand to unpack luggage and order drinks while one can enjoy unparalleled views from the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Forbidden City.
The star attraction of the fully equipped fitness centre is a stunning resort-style indoor pool which stretches between Roman pillars and palm trees. Replete with multiple jacuzzis, underwater music and a virtual sky featuring different weather patterns, the pool has a unique ambience which is ideal for relaxation. Surrounding the pool area, a lush tropical landscape conceals a gym and spa. To meet the needs of its business travellers, the hotel has dedicated nearly 3,000 sqm (32292 sqft) to meeting rooms, conference facilities and majestic ballroom offering the latest technology.
With plenty of restaurants and bars around the Grand Hyatt, there is no shortage of options for evening entertainment. Within the hotel itself, visitors can also find delectable cuisine and a lively atmosphere. Redmoon popular for its sushi-style lunches and evening cocktails, creates a sexy underground retreat with its blazing fire, red sofas and wine cellar.
Made in China’s contemporary decor, which features full-length windows, brick walls and an open kitchen, reflects the modern slant on Chinese specialities such as Peking Duck and Beggars Chicken.
At Noble Court, diners can enjoy a more traditional fare of classic Cantonese cuisine alongside signature dishes such as Succulent Pork Ribs Flavoured with Coffee, The Grand Cafe combines a variety of Western and Asian flavours in its show kitchen, and for traditional Italian fare, Da Giorgio has created an intimate bistro atmosphere with lovely views across the green-tiled roofs of a traditional courtyard house.