Endless Holiday

Beijing–also widely referred to as Peking–became the capital city of China during the Yuan Dynasty in the mid 1200s. This intriguing and mysterious city has lured individuals from all over the world for centuries, and first-time visitors will find there are an extraordinary number of activities and attractions in which they can participate to create the vacation experience of a lifetime.

Shopping and Sightseeing

Beijing is a fashionable and vibrant city that is home to famous historical sites and outstanding scenery. Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City–a historical landmark and the largest palace in the world–lie in the center of the city, and many tourists choose to begin their day of sightseeing from this location.

In addition, a leisurely, enjoyable stroll through Beijing’s old alleys and narrow streets is an ideal way to view authentic Chinese life and catch a glimpse of Eastern history. A 20-minute walk from Tiananmen Square will find visitors in Wangfujing, a bustling shopping district filled with various activities. Other attractions that shoppers will enjoy including Beijing’s renowned Silk and Pearl Market. Here, visitors can purchase various merchandise, including silk apparel, handmade souvenirs, and genuine pearls. Additionally, the Panjiayuan Market offers a broad selection of unique souvenirs, pieces of art and authentic Chinese antiques.

The Great Wall

Most individuals would agree that a visit to China would not be complete without a trip the Great Wall. Built more than nine centuries ago throughout reigns of numerous rulers, this impressive landmark stretches over 5000 miles from the mountains of Korea to the Gobi Desert and is the world’s largest handmade structure. It is also Earth’s only man-made structure visible from outer space.

Engaging Entertainment

Numerous Beijing vacationers find the live performances of Chinese acrobats impressive and highly entertaining. Such shows can be found in various live theaters throughout the city. Other live entertainment venues are available as well, with something to please essentially any traveler.

Lodging and Transportation

The Chaoyang District is home to a large number of hotels and resorts that cater to foreign travelers. Several hotels receive consistently high ratings among vacationers in online reviews, and these include the Beijing Embassy Suites, The St. Regis Beijing, and the Four Seasons Resort. Most resorts and hotels are located near the city’s various embassies, providing a peaceful environment for visitors, while still being close to popular tourist sites such as the Forbidden City.

The Beijing International Airport–BCIA– is located approximately 45 minutes from the city’s downtown area; however, congested traffic patterns during rush hour often make the commute much longer. Therefore, visitors should allow for extra time if they plan to travel during rush hour. Flights to Beijing from London, New York, Miami, and India typically arrive on a daily basis. Taxi service is reasonable and convenient from the airport to most tourist destinations and is available seven days a week around-the-clock. Queuing time is usually less than 10 minutes for all self-service passengers and even less for those taking full-service flights. Airport Shuttle Bus lines are available to Xidan, Fangzhuang, Zhongguancun and Gongzhufen, and the wait is usually less than 15 minutes. The Airport Shuttle Bus line also departs for the Beijing Railway Station every 30 minutes throughout most of the year.

Weather

For the best weather, one should visit Beijing in September or October when dry, sunny days, cool evenings and clear skies are typical. Interesting and exciting events in Beijing during this time include the Beijing Dance Festival, which lasts for six weeks beginning in mid-August and the Mid-Autumn Festival, the latter of which is somewhat similar to what Westerners would call a giant state fair. Also sometimes referred to as the Moon Festival, this event draws visitors from all over China and India.