Return from Beijing II
sounds like a good movie title. Another half hour to board, I'm sitting in the lounge in PEK (Beijing capital airport) and have free internet, so it's time for LJ.
So now that I've been in Beijing for 2 weekends, I must say that it rocks. So a quick overview:
One more week to the Maldives!
So now that I've been in Beijing for 2 weekends, I must say that it rocks. So a quick overview:
- Tian An Men - a must see. The size of the square will start to give you an idea of the scale of china (but only start!)
- Forbidden City - another must see, but allocate some time. I walked through it fairly quickly, which took an hour. It's huge and beautiful.
- Great Wall - I was disappointed. The most popular tourist viewing point has been rebuilt at least twice in the last 50 years making it impossible to get any sense of history. The less popular spots might be better.
- Ming Tombs - Must not be missed! They are beautiful and fancinating. The scale of the work, the artifacts, the sense of peace... incredible.
- Temple of Heaven - Wonderful. I always feel a sense of wonder in places with lots of religious history. The grounds are like a massive, peaceful park.
- Summer Palace - I didn't know this was a UNICEF World Heritage site. Score one for me! It was a bit overcrowded, but still serene.
- KTVs - this is china; kareoke is serious business. Basicly a 5 star hotel complete with leather couchs, foyer, and buffet - just no beds.
- Sanlitun Lu - great club scene. A good mix of expats and locals makes for a nice flavor.
- Food - there are restaurants literally everywhere. The small hole-in-the-wall shops are particularly tasty, but a translator is helpful. I love gongdong food. And I must say, the chinese use a bit more of the frog than the french - at least the spices were good.
One more week to the Maldives!