 The Himalayas range seen as we flew from Beijing to Ashgabat over the Tien Shan mountain range. Traveling from Beijing to Ashgabat took us over a massive stretch of land, passing through regions like the Gobi Desert, parts of Central Asia, and some of the world’s highest peaks, like the Himalayas and the Pamirs. Even though hundreds of miles away, we still saw the majestic Himalayas and was awe-inspiring. While zoomed in, we did see incredible views of the Tibetan Plateau and the vast, snow-covered mountain ranges stretching for miles. It was quite interesting to see such a drastic change in landscapes—from the urban sprawl of Beijing to the rugged mountains of the Himalayas in only a few hours, and then finally to the more desert-like terrain of Turkmenistan. Remarkable to think that only around 70-80 years ago people still could not afford to enjoy these views.  The Himalayas range seen as we flew from Beijing to Ashgabat over the Tien Shan mountain range.  The Himalayas range seen as we flew from Beijing to Ashgabat over the Tien Shan mountain range.
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 The Tien Shan range of mountains in Xinjiang, China from 38,000 feet, enroute from Beijing to Ashgabat. Bogda Feng (博格达峰), means "Bogda Peak", standing at 5,445 meters (17,864 feet), seen here from our flight from Beijing to Ashgabat from 38,000 feet [!]. It is the highest peak, part of the Bogda Shan (博格达山) means "Bogda Mountains" and refers to the entire subrange of the eastern Tien Shan Mountains in Xinjiang, China, and is in the eastern Tien Shan range of Xinjiang, China. Known as the “God Mountain,” it’s revered locally for its beauty and spiritual significance. With its year-round snowcap and challenging terrain, it draws climbers seeking remote, technical alpine adventures. You can climb Bogda Feng, but it's considered a serious and technically demanding ascent. The mountain’s steep ice and rock faces, unpredictable weather, and remote location make it suitable only for experienced mountaineers. It’s not commonly climbed, partly due to its difficulty and the complex logistics of reaching it. Climbers usually approach from Urumqi and then head to the Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) area for access. Permits may be required, and guided expeditions are recommended due to the challenging alpine conditions.  The Tien Shan range of mountains in Xinjiang, China from 38,000 feet, enroute from Beijing to Ashgabat.  Bodga Shan seen from the plane.  Bodga Feng, seen in the Tien Shan range of Xinjiang, China from 38,000 feet, enroute from Beijing to Ashgabat.  The moon seen in the background with the beautiful Tien Shan range of Xinjiang, China.  Shangri-La Shougang Park in Beijing  The Shangri-La Shougang Park Beijing After spending a peaceful week immersed in the slower pace of village life in Jiandu, just outside Yangzhou, we returned to Beijing seeking a mix of familiarity and meaningful experiences. For our final four days, we opted for something refreshingly different: a stay at the Shangri-La Shougang Park. Set against the dramatic backdrop of reimagined steel mill structures, the hotel offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and contemporary elegance. Though we had initially reserved a standard room, we were delighted to receive an upgrade to one of the hotel’s themed Family Suites. Imaginative and thoughtfully designed, the suite quickly became a cozy retreat for both kids and adults. With playful elements tailored for children and upscale touches throughout, it perfectly captured the spirit of luxury family travel.  Shangri-La Shougang Park in Beijing  Outdoor children's play area at the Shangri-La Shougang Park Beijing. First impressions: Bold, beautiful, unforgettable You know you’re somewhere different the moment you pull up. The entrance is framed by towering industrial relics—massive, sculptural steel structures from Shougang’s factory days—now artfully reimagined. Inside, the lobby is vast, dramatic, and somehow serene, blending contemporary Chinese design with the raw, powerful beauty of its industrial past. You catch a subtle whiff of white tea in the air, a Shangri-La signature, and a hushed sense of calm settles over you. Who’s checking in? This hotel attracts a fascinating mix: visiting dignitaries and athletes (Shougang Park was one of the main hubs for the Beijing Winter Olympics), stylish local families enjoying a staycation, and architecture lovers drawn by the site's industrial-chic transformation. It feels cosmopolitan but deeply rooted in Beijing's new creative scene.  The Shangri-La Shougang Park, Beijing [seen on the right hand side], is built on the site of a former Shougang Power Plant within the Shougang Park area. The hotel complex preserves the architectural foundation of the old power plant while incorporating modern design and Asian sensibilities.  Shangri-La Shougang Park in Beijing  Shangri-La Shougang Park Beijing - spacious and tranquil  Our treetop themed family suite at the Shangri-La Shougang Park in Beijing Inside the rooms: Sleek comfort meets thoughtful design Rooms here are smartly designed with a crisp, clean aesthetic that still feels warm—think muted tones, soft lighting, and huge windows overlooking Shougang’s dramatic landscape. Families will love the spacious suites, some featuring bunk beds and thoughtful kid-friendly touches. For business travelers, the executive rooms come with ample workspace, high-speed charging stations, and easy access to the Horizon Club Lounge. Ready for a dream night's sleep? Absolutely. The beds are Shangri-La level plush—just firm enough to feel supported, with silky linens and a pillow menu if you’re picky. Blackout curtains and nearly soundproof walls mean you’re getting Olympic-grade sleep.  Plenty of space in the luxurious family suite at the Shangri-La Shougang Park in Beijing  Our family suite at the Shangri-La Shougang Park in Beijing  The treetop themed bunk bed at the Shangri-La Shougang Park in Beijing Small touches that make a big difference The minibar is low-key excellent, with local craft beers, artisanal Beijing snacks, and an elegant selection of teas. In the bathroom, there are eco-conscious amenities by Shangri-La Botanicals—everything smells like a fresh mountain morning. Bathroom goals: Check. You’re in good hands. Big, gleaming bathrooms with both a rainfall shower and a deep soaking tub perfect for unwinding after a long day. Heated floors add an extra cozy touch during Beijing’s colder months. How’s the Wi-Fi? Critical question. Flawless. Lightning-fast, free, and stable throughout the massive property, even if you’re video-calling from a tucked-away garden bench.  Residents of the family suites have 24-7 complimentary access to the Pantry, which has washing machines, tumble dryers and robots that do room service!  The Pantry at the Shangri-La Shougang Park, Beijing  Kids toiletries at the Shangri-La Shougang Park in Beijing What else caught our eye? The hotel sits in Shougang Park, one of Beijing’s most exciting urban renewal projects. There’s direct access to skybridges, lakeside paths, and the famous Big Air Shougang (yes, that surreal ski jump). Fitness fanatics will love the sprawling gym and Olympic-grade sports facilities nearby. The on-site restaurants are also a highlight, serving up elevated Northern Chinese cuisine and international favorites.  We were given two passes for our kids - took them into an immersive world of adventure at buds, an indoor play space for young children to learn through sensory play. Afternoon tea is believed to have begun in the 19th century, thanks to the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who felt faint between breakfast and dinner—the two main meals of the day. To ease her hunger, she requested tea and light snacks. Soon, this elegant ritual spread through British high society. Though lunch is now part of our daily routine, afternoon tea remains a cherished tradition, gaining popularity worldwide. It's a delightful way to indulge—especially if you enjoy sweets. Afternoon tea at Shangri-La Shougang Park Beijing was served in the stunning Power Station lounge, styled like a botanical garden. While prices aren’t listed online, the experience includes homemade pastries and drinks. We enjoyed this wonderful time as a family accompanied with plenty of English Breakfast tea!  Our Afternoon Tea experience at the Shangri-La Shougang Park, Beijing.  The indoor play area also enables kids to draw, among other activities Every detail is thought through to make traveling with kids (and all their energy) feel effortless and even luxurious. Creature comforts included: • Heated mirrors in both spacious bathrooms • Motion-sensor curtains that glide open with a wave • A motion-sensitive automatic toilet (yes, the lid opens itself!) • Easy-to-use rain and hand shower controls — no confusing hotel tech here • A private garden, ideal for morning coffee or kids’ playtime • A kids' goodie bag stocked with toys and adorable stationery • A whimsical mouse hole entryway connecting the adults’ and kids’ rooms • Bunk beds and an additional full bed — comfortably fits a family of 5 or 6 (2 adults + 3–4 kids) • Kid-sized tables and chairs for art projects or snack time • Nighttime lullaby music and soft lights to help little ones wind down • Bath salts for grown-up relaxation • Themed kids’ amenity kits that made our children squeal with delight • A family pantry with unlimited access to washing machines and dryers (a game-changer for longer stays) • Full access to the swimming pool, including a dedicated kids' pool • Gym access if you need to sneak in a workout • A dehumidifier and two air purifiers already set up in the suite — Beijing air, sorted • Two gigantic smart TVs, one in each connecting room (movie nights = sorted) • Kids’ and adults’ fluffy bathrobes and slippers • Goodnight quotes from Lost Horizon placed lovingly by the beds • Family-sized umbrellas for both kids and adults (handy if the weather turns) • A luxury Bluetooth speaker cleverly disguised as a pug dog (huge hit!) • Beautiful Luzerne handcrafted mugs in the pantry — made tea time feel special Extra highlights? The Lai Huang Bao we had at breakfast was easily the best I’ve ever tasted — full credit to the chefs. Afternoon tea was another standout: sweet, decadent, and beautifully presented. The location feels like a peaceful retreat — tucked into a quieter part of Beijing but still easy to hop in a taxi and get anywhere.  How would like your eggs? Final verdict: A bold new side of Beijing Overall, Shangri-La Shougang Park masterfully fuses heritage with modernity, presenting a thoughtful and imaginative reinterpretation. The architecture tells a compelling narrative, blending different periods, materials, scales, and uses into a unified vision that looks confidently toward the future. Lissoni & Partners enhance the existing structure with a sensitive design approach that respects its industrial past. Their work subtly echoes the philosophy of the late Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill, whose transformation of the Cement Factory emphasized not disguise but the expressive power of revitalized industrial space. Spacious, thoughtful, and full of hidden surprises, the Family Suite at Shangri-La Shougang Park really nails it for families who don’t want to sacrifice comfort or style. Without a doubt. Shangri-La Shougang Park isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a window into Beijing’s bold, ambitious future, wrapped in luxury and warmth.  Shangri-La Shougang Park Beijing - our treetop themed family suite. Kids have their own TV and a mouse hole that connects to the parents bedroom  Shangri-La Shougang Park Beijing - our treetop themed family suite has a private garden.  Shangri-La Shougang Park Beijing - our treetop themed family suite has a private garden - perfect for the summer.  Shangri-La Shougang Park Beijing - luxury redefined  Shangri-La Shougang Park, Beijing  It had been five years since we last set foot in China—a stretch of time that somehow felt like both forever and no time at all. When we departed in 2019, our daughter Tara was a round-faced toddler; now, she's a confident seven-year-old with a younger brother, Jasper, nearing four. The pandemic had put our travel plans on hold, but this Easter break, we finally returned—this time, as a family of four. Our trip was intentionally simple and heartfelt: four days in Beijing, a stop in my in-laws’ village near Yangzhou, and then a few final days back in the capital before flying home to the UK. In Beijing, we chose the Fairmont—a quietly elegant hotel tucked away in the Central Business District. Though we had reserved a luxury double room, we were pleasantly surprised with an upgrade to a Fairmont Gold Family Suite. With that came access to the Club Lounge, Willow Stream Spa, indoor pool, and fitness center—an upgrade that immediately set the tone for a smooth, indulgent stay. I had booked the hotel through a discounted offer on LuxuryLink. First impressions: Elegant luxury with a personal touch From the moment we arrived, Fairmont Beijing made an impression. The golden-glass façade gleams against the city skyline, and inside, the atmosphere is all plush, understated glamour. Staff welcomed us warmly, and to our delight, even surprised my wife with a beautifully presented birthday cake in our suite — a thoughtful touch that set the tone for our stay. Who’s staying here? Business travelers dominate during the week (given the proximity to GuoMao CBD), but on weekends you’ll spot leisure travelers and families drawn by Fairmont’s reputation for relaxed luxury and its unbeatable central location.  Inside the rooms: Comfort with room for a refresh We stayed in the Family Suite, which was spacious and impressively well-equipped. A full-size automated massage chair offered post-travel bliss, and the power shower made freshening up a joy. There were plenty of USB ports conveniently placed, a much-needed humidifier and air purifier for Beijing’s air, and lots of room for a family to spread out. While the room was very comfortable, it's fair to note that the hotel is over a decade old, and some areas are beginning to show signs of age. A future refurbishment would elevate the experience even further. Ready for a dream night's sleep? Absolutely. The beds were heavenly—plush, with crisp linens and the kind of quiet you only get with great soundproofing. After a massage session and a hot shower, sleep came easily. Small luxuries that made a big difference From the thoughtful birthday cake to little practicalities like plentiful USB ports and excellent air-quality appliances, Fairmont Beijing clearly cares about making the guest experience smooth and memorable.  Bathroom bliss? Check. The bathroom featured a fantastic power shower and luxury amenities, all set against rich marble finishes. Everything worked exactly as hoped, offering a comfortable space to refresh and unwind. Connectivity and getting around Wi-Fi was fast and reliable throughout the hotel. Better yet, Fairmont is brilliantly located — just a two-minute stroll to Line 1’s Yong’anli Station (Exit C) and an easy walk to the buzzing GuoMao CBD. Around the hotel, you’ll find plenty of cozy cafes and local eateries to explore.  Airport runs made easy Arriving from Beijing Capital Airport cost around 250 RMB (£25) in a private six-seater luxury SUV — perfect for fitting all our luggage. Getting to Daxing Airport at the end of our stay cost about 350 RMB (£25) — efficient and stress-free. Final verdict: A polished base in the heart of Beijing Fairmont Beijing hits the sweet spot between luxury, comfort, and location. Child-friendly restaurants, something-for-everyone, pool scenes, and loads of activities and entertainment – The Fairmont Beijing tick all the boxes. Though a refresh would bring the rooms up to modern standards, the outstanding service, thoughtful touches, and prime location make it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a welcoming home base in the capital.  |
Get in Touch:LIFE MATTERSHere I share my thoughts
and experiences during my travels, and how some things have affected my life as an expat and world traveller. Travelling is about capturing that moment in life. Every word, view and opinion on this page is that of Navjot Singh - except where indicated. The most recent is at the top. Scroll down to read the archive. Or search using CTRL+F (COMMAND + F) and enter a keyword to search the page. Just some of the stories you never heard before. The NAVJOT-SINGH.COM web blog is separate to this web site....Click blog, which may not be visible in some countries due to local firewall restrictions, so in those cases this weblog may be read. The weblog also includes some of my press trip reports- most of which are not published on the official blog because of copyright issues. The weblog also contains articles that may be associated directly with a PR trip for a country, airline or a hotel. These are PR reviews done in relations with various companies. If you are an investor or a trend watcher then you may find this website useful as investing has a lot to do with personal observations and finding the ideal trend or next big thing. The average human on the street frequently knows far more about the state of the economy than politicians, university professors, subject matter experts, and financial analysts who seldom travel, or if they do so, only from one hotel to another hotel! The pulse and vibrancy of an economy is nowhere more visible than on a country's streets. 
All photos and words are © Navjot Lauda unless stated. Photos taken by others or by agencies are appropriately copyrighted under the respective name. No photo or word/s may be taken without the prior written permission by the author (i.e. Navjot Lauda). All Rights Reserved. 
Navjot being interviewed by Cecila Lu at GDTV.
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