Aman BJ

Aman is just amazing. Admittedly spoiled, I thought nothing would really impressed me, despite all the fore-warnings of how Aman is different. But Aman Phuket was grt and special, and Aman BJ is serene and not just 'Chn made for foreigners' which is what I fear it might be.

Instead, its tastefully done, Aman all the way. The Chn restaurant is overpriced (we spent RMB700 for lunch for 2 with Peking duck+veg pot+duck meat dish) but decent. Service is less attentive than it should be (no one served us tea until asked). Decor of the hotel and public area itself is traditional - almost palace grand - but with the Aman SE Asia twist. The courtyard, the pond, the study, even the shop (which is for sure the most amazing hotel shop you will ever see) are just breath-taking.

The private access to Summer Palace is another classic Aman touch (which I pulled with a bit of name-dropping, since I wasnt a hotel guest), which makes you feel totally special. I think I will go find an opty to stay there once next time - though I am sure it will cost an arm+leg!