That cracks me up!

It seems like you can't get it back. I also wanted to cancel before, and they refused to refund my deposit.

A 'VIP spot for the flag-raising ceremony'? If you see that advertised, just run. Even the most important person in the world would have to queue and fight for a spot like everyone else.

Jiang Lai.

Wear sneakers and bring a light jacket. For Peking duck, head straight to Ziguangyuan and get their set meal for two – it's a real bargain at around 100 RMB. Their 'naipizi' (milk skin dessert) is also good. Near the Lama Temple (Yonghegong), there's a fantastic place for lamb spine hot pot ('yang xiezi') that costs just over 100 RMB, which is a good price. Their service is decent too, and you can easily find it with an online search. They stay open until 2 AM. Sanhe's hawthorn drink is also delicious, at 12 RMB per glass. I wouldn't recommend the shuan rou (instant-boiled mutton) if you don't like sesame paste; I usually make my own dipping sauce with sesame oil.

The queues were insane when I went; it just wasn't worth it.

How many days did you visit for?

Heads up: This Beijing tour guide claimed to be from Ctrip but was actually an unlicensed, unofficial guide. He was from Northeast China, didn't provide good explanations throughout the tour, and even argued with tourists. The itinerary just skimmed over the actual attractions, with the main focus on extended stops at 'cultural creative' shops and pastry stores, clearly just trying to get people to buy things.

Wow, you've even traveled abroad! I haven't even been to an airport.

That's so true. If I were a local, I'd definitely get an annual pass. I'd take my time exploring all the major attractions whenever I had free time – there are so many places worth savoring.

Don't push other users to roast you.

I believe the unique character of the hutongs should be preserved. However, they do need upgrading and beautification, much like how Shanghai has extensively renovated its Shikumen areas.

If you need to book for a specific day, just let me know. I can get it booked for you with 99% certainty, using your own ID.

When I was in Beijing, my face wouldn't get oily for days – it was amazing! But in Shenzhen, my face becomes an oil slick again almost immediately after washing it.

Ditan Park.

It's no use.

That's just unbelievable. If my kid were still like this at 20, I'd feel like they're pretty much a lost cause, with no basic survival skills.

There's an endless supply of gullible people to be scammed, like leeks that keep growing back. It's useless trying to warn them!