Harmony Hotel

Excellent hotel for this value! We stayed there for about a week in late May 2004. For about 50 USD per night (two adults, luxury room, breakfast not included, booked via third party agency), we got a large room with air conditioner and bath, electronic lock, safe and even ADSL socket. Every day we were delivered new disposable combs, toothbrushes, slippers and even teapot with two cups of jasmine tea. There is a sauna (didn't have the time to visit), a beauty salon, a restaurant (breakfasts are 30 yuan and it's self-service pick-all-you-want, either Western or Chinese, very filling), a bar, same day laundry and transportation services. Word of warning about transportation though: this is not a hotel service, they just call a taxi, so the usual rules of using a Beijing taxi apply :-) . Meeting in the airport will cost you 200 yuan - don't use, you can hire a taxi for 70-100 yuan (not the guys that approach you near the currency exchange!!!) or use the shuttle bus for less than 20 yuan.

Staff is very friendly and helpful, most of them speak reasonable English.

The location is outstanding - 1-3 minutes of walk to Beijing railway station (and subway), close to Tiananmen and Wangfujin (not within the walking distance though, unless you're a professional hiker).

Negative sides - it's just above the noisy Central Post Office so sometimes you might want to close your window and turn on the air conditioner. The hotel website doesn't work properly (none of the listed emails works), so to communicate you'll have to use the fax or the phone.

Unique Quality: The location is fantastic - 1-3 minutes of walk to Beijing railway station (and subway), close to Tiananmen and Wangfujin (not within the walking distance though, unless you're a professional hiker).

Directions: Dongcheng District, near the railway station and the Central Post Office

For those travelling on medium budget and looking for something in between 3 and 4 stars hotel, this is a recommended one. Situated next to Lido Holiday Inn. In midway between the airport and the city center. Service is ok, room is ok, price is reasonable.

Unique Quality: Quiet surrounding and environment.

Directions: Jichang Road