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My first trip to Mao Tse Tung’s land was in January '06/winter.
I was confident I would survive Beijing's weather clad only in my sister's thick jackets. No ear muffs, gloves, and all other winter paraphernalia... but the weather proved too much, so I rushed off to YASHOW - a popular shopping destination frequented by both tourists and locals out for a good bargain. In fact, I was able to purchase a winter white down jacket for only Php 800 (Philippine Pesos)! I was also pleased with my other purchases. This included souvenir items intended as décor and giveaways for my brother's Asian-themed wedding in November 2006. It's fun to shop in China as everything there is much cheaper.
When shopping, remember the following: 1.Call the locals "Pang Yao" (friend), 2. Sales attendants always price their ware 5 to 10 times more for tourists, and 3. BARGAIN! Remember 20% discount is never enough. I also recommend two other shopping Mecca’s SILK MARKET and the weekend market.
When I was all geared up to face Beijing winter, I set off with beau and friends to immerse myself in China’s rich culture, exquisite architecture, and exceptional cuisine. My MUST VISIT LIST below:
1. We saw the GREAT WALL at winter! A long drive from the city, travel time will depend on which part of the wall you want to see. It is best to rent a car with driver if touring with a big group. Its cost-efficient and you get to control your own schedule.
Weather, asthma, and altitude... I barely made it, but it was well worth the effort. My first world wonder and I had good photos for show! For people who plan to stay and work in Beijing, save the trip for when visitors come or you could get tired of looking at walls. Quoting a friend: “You’ve seen one wall, you’ve seen it all.”
2. Enthused by "The Last Emperor", I always told myself I'd visit the FORBIDDEN CITY someday. That someday finally came and it felt so good. I walked through the halls in great awe. No ordinary guest was allowed to pass this back in the era of Dynasties!
3. Right outside the City is TIANANMEN SQUARE, an open plaza frequented by locals. The square is sandwiched by two government offices, the way Agrifina Circle in Old Manila is sandwiched by the Department of Tourism and Department of Finance. There is a monument for Mao Tse Tung right in the middle, the same way we have a bust for Gat Jose Rizal. It is to them what Luneta Park is to us, except the site is kept clean and well maintained.
4. The TEMPLE OF HEAVEN is a smaller Forbidden City set amidst a vast garden. It reflects the same intricate details in its architecture. It provides a relaxing, serene park walk. (For corny, cheesy couples who want HHWW: hold hands while walking!)
5. HOU HAI is lovely year round. The strip of Hotungs (old traditional Chinese houses) converted into bars and restaurants by the lake provide a quaint and modern romantic feel. This is especially evident at winter with the frozen lake and dim lights. Even Starbucks by the entrance gives you a blend of modern day and old China. Consider Hou Hai for a romantic dinner with your special someone and continue with HHWW!
There are also vendors abound peddling various items. Don't forget to bargain or you may end up with local ware that’s cheaper when bought abroad!
6. A Chef let go from his Royal kitchen post opened the QUANJUDE restaurant. Offering fine cuisine; it eventually became famous for roast duck and received the Emperor’s special attention. The Royal Palace began to buy from the restaurant regularly. Hence, it now plays a role in the country’s history.
Every visit, customers are given certificates which indicate the number of roast duck served to them. Note: It is a pricy experience!
7. I visited JIN TING CHUAN (Golden Kettle) at least twice per trip. They serve the best dimsum - by my standards. The restaurant is popular with locals and expatriates, and can easily be accessed by subway. Don’t hesitate to go around and explore the City. Public transport is safe and inexpensive. A short train ride is only Php 7.00 (Philippine Pesos).
I truly enjoyed Beijing, China. History and tradition transcends time - continually seen through their practices, food, language, and architecture. Chinese culture is perhaps the most influential of all Asian cultures. Given the chance, I would go there again.
Photos taken in October 2006 / spring: 1. Tiananmen Square, 2. Forbidden City entrance, 3. Inside the Forbidden City, 4. Erik Riola at the Temple of Heaven, 5. Starbucks Hou Hai with former colleague Adrian Lui (more to come )
"XIE XIE / SHE SHE" (Thank you!) - Babbling from Manila, Midolfingurl
