We had no intention of going to China originally, but when we learned it was a necessary stop on our way to Mongolia, we thought we would make the best of their 72 hour visa-free transit policy. China really surprised us! We found a lot to love in just 72 hours.
- Did you say it’s 600 years old?!
The U.S. has 100 year old buildings, South America has 200 year old, Europe boasts about 400 year old stuff… but China, we’re talking 600 year old buildings! And they’re beautiful and so interesting.
- 26 Billion People in Beijing, and it’s a super considerate, clean and organized city.
- Park Life.
Parks and palaces that are beautiful and used by the people every day for singing, dancing, tai chi, playing games and just hanging out. We went to the Summer Palace and the Heaven Temple and got to experience it.
- Hutongs: Ancient Arteries of the City.
These winding alleyways have ancient architecture and it’s where we got to see the real city come to life.
- The Great Wall.
Our day trip out to visit it showed us the beauty of China’s countryside. What an amazing structure.
- Enthusiastic attire.
People go all out dressing up in character. They really get into whatever activity they are doing, or do it just to look unique.
- Feng Shui design in everything.
Whether it was a palace, a room in a restaurant, a park or a neighborhood this thoughtful design was employed. I loved the intentionality and the peaceful feeling it created.
- Duck.
We had the most incredible roasted duck. The skin literally melted on your tongue as soon as it touched it.
