Beijing Budget Trip (May 19th, 2PPL) 🎈: Back With Our 'WTF NOT TO DO' List!

[Andrea Hand]

Sob sob, ladies, my five-day trip to Beijing with my boyfriend is like an epic tale of financial and physical struggle written with my hard-earned cash and sweat! I advise you all that without proper travel planning, your wallet might just “cry!” Here’s a summary of my lessons learned, so make sure to take note!

First off, allow me to vent about the anxiety-ridden appointments on social media.

• Many people complain that booking tickets for tourist attractions in advance can be a nightmare. This isn’t entirely true!
• Besides some highly popular spots like the Forbidden City or The Great Hall of The People, the vast majority of sites offer simple ticketing processes, whether it's last-minute booking or online reservation! I witnessed many visitors buy their tickets at the very moment they arrived with just the touch of a button on their phones. Some vloggers really need to stop spreading these unfounded fears and freaking people out!!

Next, let’s discuss the issue of carrying an extra bag.

• There are those who suggest that not bringing a bag can speed up the process for security queues – this claim is utterly absurd. In reality, Beijing’s tourist attractions can become as crowded as China’s Spring Festival rush hour (that is, the highly congested period of train travel that occurs once a year) . If you opt to bring your bag, you will only lose two-minute more. Just stick what you absolutely need.

With tears in my eyes, here comes those essential suggestions which could save you a lot of troubles during your visit!

1️⃣ Portion Control Principle:

• The serving sizes of dishes in Northern China are rather generous! A dish may serve four instead of one! Southern Chinese, please refrain from ordering in your accustomed amounts and start small and add if needed.
• A notice to you: ordering excessively can lead to waste and receive a stern look from local aunts. Be mindful!

2️⃣ Your Choice of Accommodation is Important!

• Caution Warning: Avoid staying at hotels located beyond the 3rd Ring Road! (Hint: “Rings” refer to Beijing’s orbital expressways, with lower number indicating closer proximity to downtown.)
• Should you choose otherwise, your daily commute between spots would consume two hours just by taking the metro . Choose hotels within the 3rd Ring and locate close to one of the metro stations and you shall enjoy a more comfortable commute!

3️⃣ Avoid These Trendy Tourist Streets!

• Wangfujing, Qianmen Street and Nanluoguxiang (Nanluo Small Lane), which are notorious for being overpriced and filled with trinkets and souvenirs. Local residents seldom venture into these places.
• To taste authentic traditional snacks, simply head to the Huguo Temple Snack Street 🥟.

4️⃣ How to Avoid Crowds at The Flag-raising Ceremony?

• Do NOT blindly follow the crowds from Tiananmen subway station.
• Remember this hidden entry point: "Tiananmen Red Wall Security Checkpoint No.01". We’ve tested it out and saved around an hour of queuing time. Standing on the west side of the square, you'll capture a beautiful shot of the sun casting light upon the grand red-and-gold Chinese national flag under the rising sun!
  (Held every morning, the flag raising ceremony is a stunning event for visitors to experience.)

5️⃣ How to Select Traditional Beijing Roast Duck?

• Warning: Pre-packed roasted ducks should always take a pass. They are typically overly fatty and salty!
• If looking to bring back a fine souvenir, you better select from larger supermarkets that sell ready-roasted duck packaged in vacuum sealing bags that can be sent directly to your family!

6️⃣ Be Wary When Tasting Dòujiàngr (Mung Bean Juice)?

• Don't believe anyone who swears that “a true visitor to Beijing must try Dòujiangr!"
• Made from fermented mung beans, it’s a traditional Beijing beverage with an extremely unique flavor, akin to a spoiled fermentation water mixed with sour cabbage soup
  . If your sensitivity towards food flavors is very low, think twice before attempting it!

7️⃣ A Precious Tip for Visiting Jingshan Park

• Make sure to go on a clear sunny day!! ️
  Opposite the North Gate of the Forbidden City, there is a perfect viewpoint atop Wanchun Pavilion on the park summit. From this point, you’ll witness the Forbidden City’s majestic red walls and golden roofs glistening under sunlight. A hazy day won’t render the same magic and charm.

Last but not least, a great deal for those striving a hassle-free holiday experience!

• For first-time tourists, consider joining smaller tourist groups led in a local manner. All accommodation-related details, meals, and admission tickets would be arranged in advance.
• No compulsory shopping or additional expenses required; your holiday will be filled with joyous experiences and convenience. The option offers efficient and happy getaways for all those who have yet to explore China’s capital city!