Beijing is developing so rapidly that even locals can hardly keep up with all the new shopping dining tourism and entertainment options now available in this increasingly diverse international metropolis.
Named "A New Architectural Wonder" by Business Week magazine in 2005,this year Commune by the Great Wall Kempinski launches Phase ll.
Set deep within the luxurious folds of the Great Wall,the Shuiguan Valley at Badaling has been home to the Commune by the Great Wall Kempinski since 2003. One of a lot new generation of smart "global" hotels 31 new villas will open this September upping the total guest capacity to 236 rooms in 42 villas.
Starting out life as "a private collection of contemporary architecture" that showcased the work of 12 Asian architects under the inspired patronage of two local entrepreneurs,The Commune by the Great Wall Kempinski is the only hotel on the Chinese mainland ever awarded a "100 Hot Hotels in the World" distinction by Conde Nast Traveler in 2004 or recognition among the "101 Best Hotels" listed by the Tatler Travel Guide 2005.
Internationally famous celebrities Renee Zellweger and Michelle Yeoh,director Anthony Minghella and tennis star Serena Williams have all stayed at the Commune. The hotel's prestige stems from the first phase of USS24-million Commune's development that won a special prize at the 2002 Venice Biennale.
Included in the latest additions to the development is a superb 1000-square-metre Anantara Spa which is laid out on three levels and linked to the Commune Club House. A 60-square-metre fitness area equipped with state-of-the-art machines and a rooftop yoga area,is also open to guests.
The Commune is a sanctuary offering privacy and tranquility,where guests can enjoy the benefits of supremely luxurious Asian hospitality.
