Opposite House - Beijing

Nearly everyday it seems as if I'm booking people flights to and from Beijing.  A lot of my clients are traveling on business, while some are just globe-trotters exploring new parts of the world.  Along with booking flights to Beijing, comes booking my clients a place to stay while they're there.  One of my top recommendations, and a luxury boutique hotel that my company has a fond relationship with, is The Opposite House.  This hotel is located in the heart of exploding Beijing, right in the center of the entertainment district.  It offers large and cozy rooms, and a modern, hip, minimalist, and very natural almost personal space, rather than just an ordinary hotel room.  In such a bustling city, it's so nice to step into the "Living Room", aka the lobby at The Opposite House.  The hotel doesn't have a reception desk, instead you just take a seat on one of the couches, and a gracious employee with bring the check-in experience to you.  They will walk you to your room, and if you need assistance figuring out the high tech features, they will give you a tutorial before they leave.  It's definitely a 5-Star experience.  This is a true oasis of relaxation and style. 

The Opposite House

The "Living Room"

Guest Room

Bathroom with "Teak" tub

Guest Room

Book your stay Here

Going to Beijing on business? Here's some things you should know:

1. Alert your bank or credit card company in advance.  Otherwise you may very well experience a few declines when your bank notices the swipes originating in China.

2. In theory, travelers checks should provide you no hassle, however be prepared to encounter hassle, if this is your method of payment.  Checks are not accepted in China, and Chinese banks will not accept a U.S. check, nor do Chinese banks issue personal checks.  If you're staying for a long time, either pay cash for bills, or pay via your banks Internet web page account.

3.  When you receive your restaurant bill or are paying your taxi fare, the amount on the printed receipt is the amount you pay. There is no tipping and no sales tax.

4.  When you are trying to find your way around Beijing, or more importantly, trying to figure out street names from street signs, be aware of a major difference from the United States. That blue street sign that hangs above an intersection, parallel to a cross street does not tell you the name of that cross-street, as it would in the United States. Rather, it tells you the name of the street you’re on at that moment.

5. When you hop in a taxi, it's very important to know the Chinese name of your destination, not just the English name.  Most taxi drivers do not speak English.  If your going to a hotel, restaurant, or store, a popular strategy is to call the place you are heading to, explain to the employee that you are coming by taxi, and ask them to tell the driver where you need to go, then hand the phone to the driver to ensure you end up at your desired location.