W Hotels put some wow in Beijing

The W Beijing: Rock the Empire global tour featured a performance by burlesque artist Dita Von Teese. [Photo by Zhang Zhao/China Daily]

W Hotels Worldwide, part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc, celebrated the opening of its newest property in Asia, W Beijing Chang'an, with an exciting international premiere. Local and international trendsetters alike enjoyed eclectic performances from around the world, including the Queen of Burlesque Dita Von Teese, while taking in the sophisticated setting.

"As an industry innovator and global influencer, W Hotels serves as the nucleus of creative energy in vibrant cities around the world,” said Sarah Doyle, the company's global brand director. "We are thrilled to showcase W Beijing Chang’an through the brand's premiere tradition, bringing to life the brand's passion points through pulsating music, edgy performances and bold fashion. The performances reflected an explosive East-meets-West synergy alongside the coexistence of punk and royalty in fashion, music and design to create an atmosphere that is entirely unique to Beijing."

Nestled in Beijing's bustling downtown diplomatic and commercial district near Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Silk Street Market, W Beijing Chang'an has 349 stylish and spacious guestrooms and suites, four bars and restaurants providing world-class entertainment and dining experiences, a well-equipped fitness center, Away Spa, and nearly 1,500 square meters of versatile space for meetings or events.

Doyle explained that the letter W represents many words that convey a feeling of vibrancy, such as wonderful and wow. She said they target "many age groups across generations", but the common mindset is one of vitality and energy.

Instead of just a place to sleep, W Hotels wants to offer the customers a life experience, she said, adding that cutting edge design, fashion and music are the three elements highlighted in all W hotels.