Jet Lag- Check, Pollution- Check, Throngs of People- Check, Endless Traffic Jams- Check, ahhh you must be in Beijing! The imperial city with its rich history is also amongst one of the most populous and polluted cities, but also a leading business mecca for businesspersons from around the globe. I fell into this category, as I checked into the newly opened (June 2014) JW Marriott Beijing Central. Being a ‘Gold Level’ member, Marriotts have become second home for me. I went in expecting to get into my routine- check in – drop stuff in room – grab laptop & iPad – Concierge lounge + WiFi + Vino & Salad – Work (while eating) until I am ready to fall asleep…
I ventured up to the 7th floor to my room and scanned my keycard and was all ready to get into my ‘flow’ but hmm something was different…the door opened to a modern room decorated in muted hues with a large king sized bed covered in beige and ivory, and what caught my attention was the ginormous bathroom- voila- a shower cubicle and a giant bath.. with inviting lighting. Lined up on the large granite vanity was a line of soothing bath products. I was never more excited about calling it a night, ordering room service, and taking a loooong bath while sipping on some Malbec (from the expansive wine list) and soaking my exhausted limbs in calming bath salts! A business travelers dream….
A good night’s rest primarily due to the soundproofed rooms that shut out the hustle and bustle of Beijing. Until the alarm went off, I was surrounded by the solitude of an Ashram not of a hyperactive4 metropolis. Lots of Rest – Check, next stop – nourishment aka breakfast. I worked my way sans laptop to the Breakfast Buffet held daily at the Western Restaurant on the 4th floor. I had my mind made up for my usual staples of an egg white omelet, fruit, and a cup of Green Tea (well I am in China, so when in…) What awaited me was not what I had expected….this was a large spread that covered multiple continents- a Traditional Chinese Section, to a European Station with Museli and Croissants, to our standard All American fare-cereal, eggs, sausage, toast, and for the health nuts, an entire station dedicated to smoothies and green juices. The tables were nestled amongst statuettes and artwork. I was told that this newly minted Marriott is working on adding to its art collection and plans on featuring local artists and sculptures.
My Breakfast Picks: A green smoothie, a Chinese Pancake, and some Museli and of course piping hot Chinese Green Tea!
Centrally located in downtown Beijing, providing fully equipped conference facilities and amenities, chauffeured services to and from the airport, and shuttles to most office complexes, JW Marriott Beijing Central is indeed an Oasis in the chaotic urban jungle of Beijing!
For more info:
JW Marriott Beijing Central
