Fodor's Expert Review The Orchid

A firm favorite among travelers looking for somewhere hip but still down-to-earth, The Orchid is a serene spot in the heart of Beijing's most vibrant hutong district, with two tiers of flower-strewn terraces, ludicrously comfy beds, a complimentary à la carte breakfast menu, and friendly staff who have an infectious love for their gentrifying neighborhood. The standard Courtyard rooms are housed in Qing-era buildings with lovely wood beamed ceilings, while the best rooms have private gardens (and one has its own terrace with views of the Drum and Bell towers). Throw in some nifty facilities (free Wi-Fi, movies on demand, under-floor heating, cell phones), great events (weekly dumpling-making classes, regular wine tastings), and a walking map painstakingly created by the co-founder that plots the tastiest traditional eats in the area, and you can see why the Orchid's 10 rooms are always in demand.