Where should I stay when I first arrive?

[amandagmu]

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for a reliable place to stay 1-2 weeks in the university area (Haidian, Wudaokou) when I first arrive next month, while I look at apartments, studios, ETC. Since I was in Beijing all the way back in 2005, I have no idea what kinds of options exist these days. In either case, I would love to avoid the scenario that occurred every other time I have arrived in China and Taiwan without accommodation, namely a scramble at the airport to a crappy place, a hostel with bugs, a hotel where I need to haggle (with jet-lag) on Day #1, etc (if you know what I mean). Ideally, I'd like a place where I have at least the first few days guaranteed in advance (booked online?) with options to extend for a bit if I want, but I'll take any suggestions at this point. I don't want to share a room (so probably no big hostels) but sharing a bathroom is not a big deal for me. (So basically I want a mostly-clean room with a door that closes and locks for security purposes, while I'm out all day.)

[Scoobyqueen]

I have stayed at 和家宾馆 several times. I really like that hotel chain. Rooms are around 20 Euros a night and they have loads of staff who are always on hand to help. I found them very organised and the price is obviously very good. The one I stayed at Wudaokou is located within five minutes from the Wudaokou tube station. But there may be other 和家宾馆 closer to where you will be studying (if you are not at Tsinghua). This should fulfill your criteria above but you have to pay cash advance when you arrive but you are able to book ahead of time.

[amandagmu]

Excellent, thank you! Everything seems fine on the website... one small question: should I request a room with a window ahead of time or do you always get one anyways? If I can avoid a window-less room I would prefer to do so.

[Scoobyqueen]

I think all the rooms have windows but one thing I would advise you is to order a non smoking room if you do not smoke. The hotel though is always flexible though so if you dont like your room you can always change. Rooms located at an outside wall were also cold in Winter though. but I am a wimp.