Taiwan Hotel

The Taiwan is a decent, if somewhat bland, midrange choice whose popularity is assured by its central location. It's a good night's sleep, and a good head start to the big-ticket items that you've come to Běijīng to enjoy.

Standards are a bit small, but a sprucing up has left them with a new paint job and scratch-free fixtures. The design is neither stylish nor off-putting. It simply is. Beds have a medium firmness, uninspiring bedding, and four pillows (a nice touch). Bathrooms are bathrooms. A few surprises, like video on demand, satellite TV, safe and minibar - rare in rooms of this price - add value. In short, this is a place where you won't be pampered, but you might be surprised by what you get. The underground station is a 5min walk away, but much of what you want to see and do in Běijīng is probably within walking distance.