Archive for April, 2014
May 1st Holiday in China Posted by sasha on Apr 30, 2014
When the clock strikes midnight, it’ll be yet another public holiday in China – Labor Day (劳动节 – láo dòng jié), more commonly referred to as “Five-One” (五一 – wǔ yī). This used to be one of three “Golden Weeks” (黄金周 – huáng jīn zhōu) in China, along with the Spring Festival and National Day…
5 Awesome Beijing Day Trips Posted by sasha on Apr 29, 2014
Living in the smog-filled concrete jungle of Beijing can be a bit depressing, especially for nature lovers. Sure, there are plenty of local parks, but sometimes flying a kite and practicing tai chi just isn’t enough to satisfy the urge for some time in the great outdoors. Luckily, there are tons of worthwhile day trips…
A Love Letter to Chinese Dumplings Posted by sasha on Apr 27, 2014
Dear Chinese dumplings, It’s been months since we last met, yet it feels like ages. Sure, I’ve come across restaurants throughout SE Asia claiming to serve the real deal, but it’s just not the same. Back when I called Beijing home, I took you for granted. I realize that now, and I’m terribly sorry. You…
Beijing Transportation Posted by sasha on Apr 24, 2014
Beijing is a massive city with millions of people. Learn how to get around this huge metropolis and learn a little Chinese language while you’re at it! 汽车 – qì chē car 地铁 – dì tiě subway 公共汽车 – gōng gòng qì chē bus 自行车 – zì xíng chē bicycle 三轮车 – sān lún chē…
Inside a Chinese Food Market Posted by sasha on Apr 21, 2014
In the past few months, we’ve talked a lot about shopping in China. After all, going to local markets is a great way to practice your language skills. Plus, they are far cheaper than the stores with mostly imported goods. We’ve gone over a lot of useful vocabulary for doing your grocery shopping in China…
Top 10 Places in Beijing – Hutongs Posted by sasha on Apr 16, 2014
It’s finally here – we’ve come to the very end of our Top 10 places in Beijing countdown. With so many historical sites, cultural icons, amazing nightlife spots and more, China’s capital city has it all. On our countdown through the best of the best, we’ve visited the university district of Wudaokou, done tai chi…
Historical Video Tour of China Posted by sasha on Apr 14, 2014
For history and culture buffs, this a perfect tour to follow in China for 7-10 days. In the capital, explore Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the National Museum, and the Great Wall. Then head to Luoyang, where you’ll be in awe of the Longmen Buddhist Grottoes. From there, it’s off to Xi’an to walk the…