Arrival/Check-in: I arrived at Beijing Airport for the second time and was eager to begin my business trip. I felt reassured the moment a porter from the InterContinental met me as I disembarked. She guided me through customs, to baggage claim and straight to the waiting driver and limousine—an efficient meet-and-greet service I highly recommend.
The hotel was ready for my arrival; the driver called ahead as we entered the city. We passed the Forbidden City and, with light traffic, reached the hotel in under ten minutes. Check-in was warm and efficient, and I was in my room within minutes while my luggage arrived shortly after. (30/30)
Guest Quarters: My room was generously sized, featuring a flat-screen TV and a bathroom almost as large as the bedroom. The design felt sleek and modern, with luxurious but restrained furnishings. Small touches—from the artwork to the amenities—maintained a sense of place while offering the comforts of a Western-branded property. A large window filled the room with natural light when the sun was out, and the desk provided ample workspace with reliable high-speed internet. (27/30)
Services/Amenities: As a frequent business traveler, I count on a hotel’s business services to keep me productive. One evening I discovered an urgent email that required a fax to the United States. Despite the business center being closed, the front desk staff treated my request as if I were in my own office, granting access to a printer and fax so I could complete the task before my deadline without stress.
The hotel has four restaurants to suit different occasions. I held a business lunch at Steak Exchange, where the staff were professional and attentive. I also tried the breakfast buffet in Monsoon but found it a bit noisy despite the wide international selection. For a quieter dining experience, especially for meetings or a peaceful morning meal, I recommend booking access to the club lounge, which provides dining throughout the day in a calmer setting. (37/40)
The Experience: I left the hotel feeling genuinely valued. Staff greeted me by name and offered helpful advice for both business and leisure needs. When I wanted to shop for electronics, the concierge recommended reputable areas and what to look for to avoid counterfeit products. The combination of a convenient location and knowledgeable staff made this a smooth and productive business stay.
Total Score: (94/100)
InterContinental Beijing Financial Street
11 Financial St.
Xicheng, Beijing, China 100034
tel 86 10 5852 5888
http://www.intercontinental.com/icbeijing