Travelling In Luxury During Olympic Games in China 2008
Beijing used to be home to an abundance of one-story shacks, where the country"s poorest lived with several family members in a single room. However, these have recently been razed, and new hotels and developments have sprung up in their place. Demand for this ultra-cheap space to live has slowed considerably since the advent of China"s economic boom, with more and more citizens now able to own a car, have a detached house, and wear designer clothes, rather than the traditional blue communist garb.With the Westernization of Chinese society in general, there have also been the first wave of luxury hotels built in the city. There had always been stragglers and huge branded developments in China, however now the luxury market has some hope of keeping up with the enormous demand that will be placed on it by the Olympics. The Tourism Bureau of China says that there are around 120 top-grade hotels in Beijing, that is, 4 stars and above. However, some places like the Ritz-Carlton, have been booked out for a year prior to the Olympics -before the building was even complete.
The Ascott Beijing is a great place to check out for luxury travelling in China during the Olympics. All the basics of luxury hotels in China are covered, like an indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, laundry service, a business center and a beauty centre. There are also extra facilities like a fitness center and even a dance studio, as well as home entertainment systems in the rooms (over and above the usual choice of local television stations). The decor is new but authentically Asian in its flavor.
Shangri-La hotels are also known the world over for their genuine Asian feel and absolute luxury. Shangri-La in Beijing is decorated in light, rich luxury. Furnishings like walls, carpeting and bedspreads are done with a gold theme, making you truly feel like royalty while you travel in luxury in China. If you are finding yourself deprived of your usual personal space while in Beijing for the Olympics, the spa facilities at Shangri-La will help restore your sense of well-being, with herbal steam rooms, massages, wraps, scrubs and treatments, all in an environment where space and privacy are the focus.
One reassuring factor to consider when booking your luxury hotel in China for the Olympic Games is that the government has promised to take action to control traffic in the city. While you may not be able to conveniently get in your car at the hotel, drive to the Olympic venue and find a park right next to the entrance, at least you will not be stuck in city-wide traffic jams.
One of the best ways to see Beijing from the base of your luxury hotel in China is by bike. Bikes are a ubiquitous sight in Beijing, Olympics or no, and they are a beautifully authentic way to see the city. You can rent a bike for a very small amount, usually around 10 to 20 kuai a day, plus a cash deposit. Ask the desk at your luxury resort in China for help with finding a bike to rent.
No matter which Chinese luxury resort you decide on for your stay in Beijing during the Olympics, you"ll need to book fast. Space is running out quickly in the Olympic City!