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CNN World Report

Ancient Chinese Alleyways the Site for Modern Hotels

Aired June 10, 2001 - 14:41   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
SHIHAB RATTANSI, CNN ANCHOR: Ancient Chinese alleyways have become a perfect setting for new hotels in Beijing. The small lanes are usually flanked by four-sided courtyards of 3,000-year-old houses.

OCTAVIA NASR: That's right. Now the alleys attract millions of tourists, who not only want to see, but also to experience certain Chinese traditions. Beijing TV reports.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE, BEIJING TV CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): The aim (UNINTELLIGIBLE) are traditional in Southern Beijing is always closed. The people passing by think it is just another residential courtyard; in fact, it is a small hotel (UNINTELLIGIBLE), the 6 member of international federation in Beijing.

Several foreign students and travelers have been here. Considering the number of apartments and hotels in Beijing, why do so many select this place hidden deep within the old city? They can capture the true flavor of old Beijing (UNINTELLIGIBLE) in the courtyard. The intricately carved window frames in ornate roof beams. They can even ride bicycles to take a tour.

SUN WEI, HOSTEL MANAGER: Some overseas students traveling around found this hotel by accident. They like the style very much. And immediately moved over here.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Converts into traditional residential buildings has become all the rage in Beijing. For a time, some national companies wanted buildings in places like the summer palace, to use as offices. This practice has been banned, but traditional housing could not qualify as a historical landmark, have been put to use as a hotel. (UNINTELLIGIBLE) enter construction will be far more expensive than the Far East hostel, when it is completed.

But the two share similar characteristics: traditional architectural design. As the name implies, this hotel was once the red room of a prince. The hotel has (UNINTELLIGIBLE) more of the facilities inside.

JOHN JEAKINS, SWISSOTEL ASIA: The picture of the '90s in China and in Beijing specifically, a lot of hotel development took place. Mostly, traditional modern hotels, so now, we have the opportunity here to build something very special -- world class we think -- in a traditional Chinese setting with very modern facilities, so we think it is one of the first of a kind, but I believe there will be more such projects in the future.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: The hostel (UNINTELLIGIBLE), Catering to very different clientele. But they are both combining the fascinating beauty of tradition with the comfort and convenience of modernization.

This is (UNINTELLIGIBLE) for CNN WORLD REPORT.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

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