Beijing
Travel Guide

Beijing is the capital of the Peoples Republic of China and the country's political and cultural center. It's an enormous city with over 20. M inhabitants. All of China's culture is over 3.000 years old, and what's most fascinating about it is that it remains almost unspoiled. Few places in the wolrd can match Beijing's historical sights. The capital, translated to romanesque languages as Pekin, holds 6 UNESCO's world... heritage sights!!!! That's something never matched by a single city.
China is filled with amazing palaces, imperial buildings and hundreds of well preserved temples.Beijing holds the Forbidden City, a royal palace which makes a big change from hutongs alleys, the more traditional residential areas of the city which are totally packed with people: everyone moving around while elderly ones, often in htier pyjamas keep an eye on kids running around from a home to the next one.
Beijing got transformed by 2008 olimpics: modern buildings qere rosen and wide, green areas were created. The city holds a whole new architectural ambition today.
China's capital city is one of contrasts, chaotic, endless and in a neverending evolution but which remains true to itstraditions.People are open and generally kind though their traditions may be quite shocking. Beijing is always in movement and colorful, food is exceptional, beer is extremely cheap and tea is delicious. Tai Chi is one of the main activities: you will find people practising this martial art in every park, while other paint the sky with kite. And on top of that, the Great Wall of China twists in the northern part of the city, waiting and protecting its inhabitantts.
Beijing has an endless and unexpected offer in a country with lots to offer and to teach.

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Beijing Overview

Language

Mandarin is one of the most spoken dialects in the country. English is slowly being introduced, mainly among young ones, though many can't speak it. It's best carry a dictionary and the addresses written down or to hire a guide to find the best places without getting lost.

Weather

Beijing is a city of contrasts even involving weather.Winter is cold and dry, with clouds which mix with pollution. But summer is hot and wet due to the monzoon. Temperatures are often over 30ºC and there's a high probability of rainfall.

Money

Renminbi (RNB). China's official currency is Renminbi, also known as Yuan (CNY). It's dificult to use a credit card or to fins ATMs in some areas of the city, specially in hutongs, so we recommend to always carry some cash. Haggling is a part of Chinese culture and it's important to follow each step to buy anything. It may take some time but it's quite an experience!

When to go

Spring and fall. The city has nicer temperatures and less rain in these seasons. In summer humidity and heat are the stars, though some premises have air-conditioning. It'a advisable to visit during one of its festivals such as Chinese New Year to get to know its people's happy and festive side.

Days

4 days. Beijing is huge and to visit its main monuments takes quite long. We recommend3 days in the city and one to go to the Great Wall, the greatest defensive construction in the world which is just a few miles away.

Surroundings

Great Wall of China
Fragant Hills (Xiangshan Gongyuan)
Tianjin (coast city)
Ming emperor's tumbs
Tan Zhe Si temple

Store Hours

Beijing's timetables are totally free, so most stores just close when the feel like it. Most malls and markets open between 9 and 10 am and close at 9 or 10 pm. Many stores are 24/7 though.