There are not too many cities in the world like Beijing in China. It has a wonderful array of charming beauties waiting to be discovered by the adventuristic traveller. From the ancient to the new you will be amazed at the contrast of living in this city.
To learn the history of China and Beijing you could go on forever reading about. The dynasties date back so far there you will be amazed. The first thing you will experience if you fly there by air is the manic environment of the airport. This can be a nice taster of what to expect but it serves you well and you will soon become somewhat 'streetwise' in this city. There you will see beggars of all ages and people trying to sell you DVD's or Socks. In fact this can become the norm and its probably best to keep the coins of loose change which you cannot spend anyway and let the beggars have these, it keeps them happy and you dont get hassled too much. The taxis can be easily obtained at the airport but do not accept one that approaches you as these are 'chancers' (illegal taxis) so join a que outside the airport doors and wait for a red taxi (usually a Citroen ZX) to collect you from a guard. This costs around 80Yuan to 100Yuan to the city streets.
Favourite spots:
Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Summer Palace, Beijing Zoo, The Great Wall, The lakes around Hanoi and all the numerous restaurants and bars to enjoy days and nights.
What's really great:
I really like the Hutongs in Beijing these are the old living quarters of the real Beijing. Sometimes right next to modern designed buildings which gives you a strark vision of how it used to be and how it is now in this wonderful city.
Accommodations:
I stayed in the Sports Inn hotel which houses a hostel called the Gongti Youth hostel. This worked out about £7 a night for a double room so 2 people can sleep in this and its clean and tidy too with TV and telephone and showers down the hall with toilet. 24 hour access so you can go out and come back in the morning which you will as Beijing is a party place at night.
Nightlife:
Vics nightclub inside the workers stadium complex is a good club which stays open till around 7am. Also opposite Vics is Mix club also very good and the vibe is pretty good in both these places. Drinks are around 30 yuan for bottled beer and 45yuan for entry.
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