By Contributing Writer
CTS Hotel, Beijing, China Review
The CTS Hotel Beijing is a four-star location owned by the government-backed China Travel Service. It is located on the north side of the third ring road. Like many hotels in Beijing has a very overwhelming, majestic feel to it. The building itself is very recognizable thanks to a Kremlin-esque top.
This CTS location is famous for its meeting rooms and for business-friendly services, which many not be ideal for casual visitors.
Wows and Woes
Getting to the CTS from the airport is a breeze. It's right next to the airport expressway by the famous Sanyuan Bridge. Arguably it is the easiest to find hotel in Beijing proper; the local name is also convenient: Zhong Lou Da Sha ("zhoong low da sha").
Rooms are generously appointed, with all kinds of pleasant extras like comfy slippers. The CTS is an old school Beijing hotel, meaning a grand lobby, marble and a good mix of tradition and modernity. The downside is residing next to some of the worst traffic in Beijing, resulting in congestion and noise.
Insider Tips
Take two walking trips if you're staying there: one due west to the Hua Lian shopping center, the other south towards Dongzhimen and Sanlitun. Ask hotel staff about these places and get walking for a great look at Beijing life.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
A great plus is the CTS office downstairs, where tours to pretty much everywhere can be arranged. When we decided to go to Thailand from Beijing. The staff there were very helpful.
Bottom Line
The CTS Hotel provides good service and the peace of mind that comes from close official supervision by the government. This is no "fly by night" operation.
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