LIVING IT UP AT THE HOTEL QUARANTINA: thread for those who want to know the conditions and deal at one of the hotels on offer in Beijing.
Yesterday, I was given a quick glance at a few photos of the hotels that I could quarantine in. Foreigners only get two options: One was 500, the other 600 a night. I opted for the 600 after a quick search online, mainly for the superior bathroom and desk space.
So here’s what I get for that considerable sum: entryway 
Main room
Bathroom - The shower and bath is a big reason why I was willing to pay more.
Unfortunately, I got stuck with an atrium room, something I wish they had made clear prior to my entry, at which point I cannot leave. Better than no window, and at least I can keep an eye on the action, but I’d like more than indirect sunlight from the roof.
Once I got here, I dedicated my first half hour to decontaminating myself and the room. I came with sanitizing gear and started by stripping down and tossing everything into the bath for washing (48 hours of travel and germs need to die ASAP)
Showered off twice, then started disinfecting my luggage, and everything in my messenger bag, which I had been in and out of over the last two days. The idea was simple, kill everything right away so I can feel safer in my cramped little space for 14 days.
After that, I packed stuff into the closet space and set up shop. I already ordered a fruit delivery, and otherwise have my essentials out on the desk: Water boiler (coffee gear coming soon), snacks from home, wipes, vitamins, and Bourbon and smoked rye from my hometown.
Set up a reading station away from my work desk so I can separate the two physically and mentally. Have self help and Edward Abbey (the irony of that combo) and the Atlantic and New Yorker that I picked up en route. Kindle comes out once those are finished.
I’ve loaded up on Netflix downloads and some new computer games for my spare time, and will be doing plyometrics and yoga for exercise in my limited space. Otherwise, I’m lucky enough to have plenty of work to occupy my time.
I’ll post periodic updates when anything interesting happens. Feel free to throw me any questions and I’ll try my best to answer.
A few updates. We get breakfast delivered as part of the hotel fees. Nice little traditional CHinese morning spread. Delivery of food and packages is also smooth and easy. , as tested.
Was given a replacement thermometer, as the analog one wasn’t able to go down. Two checks, plus a report on any symptoms.
Some, but not all, occupied rooms are blocked by police tape and a chair. Unclear why some have these and others don’t. Maybe they are more at-risk, or have symptoms?
Someone wanted to see my whisky up close and personal. Damned good stuff from my hometown.
The internet is less and less stable and is slowing down. Presumably, new arrivals are draining it as they set up shop?
