I’ve just returned from Beijing, China! And I did a little legwork for anyone who’s ever interested in going…
PLACE TO STAY
The Opposite House
The Village
Building 1, no.11 Sanlitun Road
Chaoyang District, Beijing China 100027
Theoppositehouse.com
Not only modern and hip, but has 6 options for dining and nightlife. The food was delicious and I especially loved that they had poached eggs for me every morning. The rooms are simple, bright, and beautiful. And when dry cleaning lost my pants, I was fully reimbursed.
PLACES TO EAT
Tian Di Restaurant
By far my favorite place I ate. The hot and sour lobster soup is still making my mouth water.
(Above: from left, Justin our amazing guide, Will the best hair and makeup artist ever, and Kelvin the most fabulous stylist that’s ever existed. Below:Hot and sour lobster soup)
Tian Di Yi Jia Open daily from 11AM to 2PM and from 5PM to 10PM. 140 Nan Chi Zi Dajie, Dongcheng District, Beijing. 140_Tel: + (86) -10-8511-5556_Price: Count 400 to 500 RMB for two people, drinks not included.
The China Club
The exclusive China Club is located inside a beautifully decorated, 400-year old Qing dynasty palace, once home to Yuan Shikai, the President of the Republic of China.
This place is members only, but I’m telling you, find a member and go! You will feel like your eating in a place straight out of “The Last Emperor.”
The fresh watermelon juice and pork dumplings were at the top of my list for memorable foods.
(Above: Me striking a pose in the courtyard. Below: Dinner in one of the many banquet rooms)
No.51 Xi Rong Xian Lane, Xi Dan,Dongcheng District Beijing 100031, China
Street Vendors
There are street vendors all over Beijing offering up all kinds of traditional snacks and dishes. Most are not recommended for those with weak stomachs. I however did enjoy a few of the local tastes.
(Above: me enjoying some delicious scorpion. Below: Other offerings on the street)
PLACES TO SHOP
The Silk Market
The Silk Market (aka Xiushui Market)is famous for selling counterfeit goods. What the Chinese vendors are doing here can’t last too much longer, but for the time being get ready to haggle! They sell everything from Chanel bags to Ipods. Some of them real, most are not. When the vendor quotes you a price you get to argue back and tell them NO! Repeatedly! I still get a rush thinking about it. Get ready to be grabbed, have your hand or shirt pulled on, and to have the vendors yell for you to come into their stalls. It’s highly addicting and highly entertaining. Even if you don’t buy anything I recommend you go just for the fun of it.
North of Dong Chang An Avenue, Jianguimenwai Street, Chaoyang District
Yaxiu Market
Located near the nightlife district of Sanlitun, this market, which is also housed in a mall, is extremely popular with young western shoppers who love to shop at the mall for knock -off brand name apparel and shoes. Prices at Yaxiu Market tend to be slightly lower than those at the Silk Alley market. The mall also houses many Beijing tailors who can rustle bespoke shirts, jackets, dresses and shirts for you in a couple of days at extremely reasonable prices.
3.3 Mall
Six full stories of tiny shops with clothing from local designers to knockoffs of Chanel. If you were a shoe size larger than a 9 good luck! You are most likely not going to be buying shoes here. The locally designed clothing is trendy and beautifully made.
33 Sanlitun Beijie, Chaoyang district
SIGHTSEEING
The Great Wall
Obviously The Great Wall is on the top of anyone’s list when they come to Beijing. However there are many different sections of the wall. I visited the Juyongguan Pass of the Great Wall. We also hiked the less tourist filled side, which is the hard side. Put on some hiking shoes and get ready to climb!
The Forbidden City
I was only able to see a little part of this beautiful place, but it was absolutely breathtaking. For more information visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forbidden_City
(Me taking a spin around the Forbidden City)
Beihi Park
A must see for anyone going to Beijing. Especially if you love paddleboats!
For more info visit http://www.travelchinaguide.com/attraction/beijing/beihai.htm
(Above: the entrance to Beihai Park. Below: Kelvin, Will , and I strike a pose on the emperor’s throne.)
Looks Like so Much Fun!! Love the yellow heels!
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