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A student’s guide to travelling in Beijing

No trip to China would feel complete without a trip to the capital city. Steeped in ancient history as well as being a modern powerhouse, Beijing is a city of cultural contradictions.

With more international residents and English-speaking tourists than rural Chinese locations, the city feels accessible and navigable for foreign tourists, despite its vastness and unrelenting busyness.

Author:
30 Jan 14:59
Language

Wherever you travel, it helps to learn some basic words and phrases to help you get by.

Try to practise before and during your trip using apps such as Duolingo and Google Translate so you don’t end up ordering the wrong meal or having too many difficulties with directions. Even in major cities such as Beijing, you mustn’t assume that most people will speak English. Although tour guides and shop assistants in tourist attraction areas will likely be able to help you along, surely you’d like to venture off the beaten path slightly and be able to head somewhere more authentic?

It’s in these places where you’ll likely find friendly and welcoming Chinese locals who will be able to share their favourite dishes with you, even if you’re only able to speak a few simple phrases to help you make your order.

Entertainment

From martial arts to cooking classes, biking tours and historical treats, this city certainly requires at least a few days of exploring and trying new things to feel fully satisfied with your stay.

Check with your hostel or online discount websites for the best deals on experience days.

There’s no doubt that Beijing is full of fun things to do, just be sure to plan your time wisely and research the best prices and locations.

As in any major city, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with choice. Consider, for example, if you can work out a museum and art gallery route yourself rather than paying someone to take you from A to B. However, some things really do deserve a local’s advice so take a stab in the dark and trying something completely different with the aid of a Beijing resident.

Where to stay

Beijing is full of international hostels at reasonable prices with a range of amenities and helpful advice for travellers. For those on a higher budget, you might enjoy a hotel room to yourself, but just consider the social aspect of where you’re staying and whether or not this is important to you.

Some hostels offer private or twin rooms in addition to larger dorms and you’ll still have access to common areas and interaction with other young travellers. Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveller or already have group of friends with you, travelling and staying in hostels is a great way to meet new people.

Need someone to go for an evening drink with? Advice on getting to the airport? You’re sure to find a fellow tourist who you’ll click with enough to exchange your tried and tested tips.

If you’re hoping to stay somewhere within walking distance of Beijing’s main attractions, be sure to search for accommodation near the central hub of Tiananmen square.

Things to see

While it’s likely that the Great Wall is rightfully high on your list for places to visit, the ancient city of Beijing is also home to the famous Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace.

Most of these impressive attractions are also in the vicinity of Tiananmen Square and the National Museum of China. If you’re hoping to experience modern China, head to Wangfujing Shopping Street or spend an arty day wandering in the many creative streets that make up Beijing’s 798 art district.

Getting around the city

One of the good things about Beijing is that you shouldn’t have to struggle too much with working your way around the city on public transport. The metro system is particularly efficient and most of the ticket machines will have an English option so you can pay your desired fare without confusion.

Be sure to download apps such as citymapper and maps.me to help you with everything from transport routes to where to find the nearest supermarket. If you need to reach somewhere slightly off the grid or are struggling with your luggage, taxis are also readily available. Just be sure to not pay too much and consider asking your hostel to help you with bookings so that you’re not spending more than you should be.

With endless online and printed guides available for this wonderful city, my best advice is to schedule in your absolute must-sees and then fill in the rest of the time with adventurous exploration.

Who knows what you’ll come across!

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