Beijing, BJ, China

Answer 1

The 2008 Olympics bought Beijing global attention and ever since then the world has had its eye on the city as a tourist destination and city for business. As the city has progressed over the years it has seen the arrival of major consumer retail operations such as Walmart and Starbucks. For Beijing’s tourist industry this is a welcoming sight as it continues to bring more and more people to this vast city for vacations and sightseeing trips.

Although not on many lists as an ideal family vacation destination, Beijing has more than enough to appeal to all ages. With the proliferation of established hotel chains such as Holiday Inn and Marriott opening hotels here, families can enjoy the comforts of home whilst experiencing a brand new culture. For families there are a host of activities to do including visiting many of the historic sites that are located all over Beijing. One of the most interesting places to see is the Summer Palace. Situated on the outskirts of the city the Summer Palace is a peaceful oasis consisting of gardens, a huge body of water known as Kunming Lake and several buildings and temples. Perhaps one of its most famous structures is the marble boat that is moored on the west bank of the lake. A purely decorative structure it symbolizes the strength of a past dynasty’s rule. Beijing is also home to section of one of the seven wonders of the world, the Great Wall of China and a visit to the city is not complete without walking along a section of this ancient wall. Depending on your fitness level there are many entrances to the great wall located a short drive from the city limits and walking along the wall is an inspiring experience as you are treated to views across the spectacular landscape. Though some parts of the wall are worn away and hard to navigate, there are several newly renovated sections that are suitable for families to walk along where they can get a taste of what it was like to guard the land against China’s enemies.

Eating in China can be an experience like no other and there are a fine array of gourmet restaurants and side street cafes to satisfy every palate. Beijing’s duck restaurants offer fine dining with fresh game that is carved by an expert chef at beside the table. For those who enjoy their game birds this is a real treat and the food is often to an excellent standard. If you are looking for something a bit more relaxed there are many Chinese based cafe chains that have come along in recent years that offer salads, sushi and varieties of coffees and teas. Sculpting in Time is one such chain and its doors open until late at night serving a mixture of foreign nationals, students and families at any given time. An experience like no other, Beijing is a most unique and original family vacation destination.

Answer 2

The 2008 Olympic Games put Beijing onto the international stage. Plus, as the capital of China, Beijing has an enormous reputation to live up to. For tourists, this is a benefit, as the city does not disappoint, with its ancient culture and modern physique!

The Forbidden City is the top attraction for tourists, and it is not hard to see why! The city within a city was once the palace of Chinese emperors. The palace is the largest in the world, with exactly 9,999 rooms! Most tours will focus on the rare treasures that are stored here, as well as the history of the emperors and those who served him.

A more recent attraction is the National Stadium, the building where many Olympic events took place. Commonly nicknamed the Bird’s Nest, the stadium now serves as a place of local sport competitions.

Many more attractions can be found in Beijing, there is something for everyone in the city, whether it is Chinese culture or Modern style!