Beijing: Your WTF Guide to Dodging Tourist Traps!

[Marc Price]

Hello, fellow travelers!

I'm about to embark on a journey to Beijing for some shopping and dining fun! My excitement is already building up as I want to try the local specialties that are exclusive to Beijing and visit the must-see spots.

Therefore, I am looking forward to hearing your suggestions:

• What kinds of local cuisine in Beijing should one definitely try?
  • Preferably the places frequented by the "food connoisseurs," those who really know their way around the culinary scene!
• Which attractions can't be missed for taking memorable photos (also known as "check-in spots")?
  • Any hidden treasures, off the beaten path but full of charm and embodying the essence of Old Beijing?
• Lastly, but most importantly, what kind of potential pitfalls did you encounter during your visit to Beijing? Or any important tips particularly for international travelers?
  • For instance, how does one avoid being overcharged ("price gouging") by shopkeepers?
  • Are there crowded areas that aren’t quite worth visiting and how can we avoid them?
  • Are there any travel hacks related to transportation? (Beijing is so vast; which is more convenient to get to the spots: subway or bus?)

Your valuable experience is much appreciated! It will make my trip to Beijing smoother and help me create wonderful memories.

Thanks in advance! #Beijing

[Cathy Gulgowski]

Don't trust every shop you find online.

[Priscilla Marquardt IV]

LOL, any recommendations for cheap and convenient places to stay? Beijing hotels are so expensive!

[Delia Jast]

The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Great Hall of the People, and the National Museum are all in the same area, so it's best to visit them on the same day. To hike the Great Wall, you'll need to take a high-speed train; from Qinghe Station, you can then take the subway.

[Lewis Larkin]

I'm planning to visit the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and the National Museum all in one day.

[Kristi Doyle]

You need to tap your card when you get on the bus, and also when you get off.

[Miss Alison Collier]

Thanks! I really wouldn't have known otherwise.

[Carmen Willms]

Any recommendations for a good Beijing roast duck restaurant?

[Hannah Rogahn]

Everyone, be careful to spot the shills in the comment section!

[Mr. Philip Hudson]

Taking the subway from Daxing to the Temple of Heaven – will the transfer make my legs feel like they're about to fall off, or should I just get a taxi?

[Hugo Witting]

Beijing cuisine... I'm not really used to it.

[Dr. Cheryl Willms]

I'm flying out right now!

[Bonnie Beatty]

Beijing welcomes you.

[Miss Angela Cormier]

If you're leaning towards classic sights, I think the Summer Palace and Beihai Park are both great. Ditan Park is also nice and very relaxing/healing.

[Brenda Shanahan]

Okay, thanks!

[Colin Cronin]

Don't book a Super 8 hotel.