Ascott Raffles City Beijing

I’ve stayed here four times, including a comfortable two-week family visit in two 2-bedroom units and one 1-bedroom unit. The reception team kept my luggage safe while I traveled to other cities, the bills were right, and extending our stay was easy when my flight was delayed by a day. Great service from Manager Micke (Ms.) and the team. The beds could be more comfortable. There are malls next door with lots of delicious food.

We didn’t try the breakfast buffet, since there are plenty of good options in the mall and around the city. The gym is well equipped and sits beside the heated pool, though you need a cap to swim. The hotel is next to a mall connected to Dongzhimen Station on the subway. The Airport Express stops there too, but you need to re-enter the subway station and pay ¥2-3 yuan, then use Exit D to enter the mall. Rooms are spacious, with separate living and dining areas, a bedroom, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a washer/dryer. We’d stay again.

The apartment was large and most facilities worked, apart from one LED downlight. But the room was a bit dusty, with hairs left by previous occupants. The mattress was too soft and springy, and I could feel the springs. The bedsheets didn’t feel premium for the price, and the pillows were so poor I was better off without them. Housekeeping needs work. We booked for five, but daily refreshes came with only four towels, so I had to ask for another every night. Front desk and housekeeping clearly weren’t communicating. Dishwashing liquid wasn’t provided unless requested, and when it arrived, the bottle had no cap. Laundry detergent was topped up automatically only on day two; after that I had to call the front desk for more. On day four, housekeeping brought three bottles, one almost empty and two only half full. It looked like someone had gathered leftovers elsewhere and passed them along without checking. Daily refreshes also didn’t include making the beds, which surprised me for this part of the world. Check-in was fairly smooth, and Miki at the front desk went out of her way to tell us about Beijing. Still, the stay felt underwhelming and short of the Ascott hospitality I’ve had at other properties. There’s a lot here that needs improvement.

We had a lovely stay in a spacious, luxurious apartment with comfortable beds and a really tasty breakfast. The price felt reasonable for the brand. The internet and TV channel selection were disappointing, and the extra fees weren’t clearly explained when we arrived. Breakfast seating was a little limited, but otherwise it was a good stay.