Mao's Tomb
by Chrissy50
I was there 3 years ago this November, from memory we arrived about 10am, Fistly do you know that you have to go across the road and leave everything there, e.g. camera, bags etc. it is not hard finding where you have to go, you are given a ticket and then go back across the road and get in line. I did not find the time a problem when I was there, I would guess it took about 10 mins standing in line, slowly moving all the time, the line moves quite quickly and of course it is interesting just to be there. I was not with a tour so there were no other westeners there at the time, lost of Chinese tourists. There is a stall selling flowers (artificial) just before you enter I can't remember how much they were charging but lot's of Chinese were buying them, you find a statue of Mao first and that is where the flowers are placed. My guess is that they are continually reused, someone might contridict me on that point. I have read a couple of Mao's bioghrophy's and of course heard the speculation on wether or not it is his body or a wax model, no matter it was quite strange and interesting being there, then get ready for the souviner's for sale as you leave. Enjoy your time it is a facinating country.
Beijing Skyline
by machomikemd
they say that 20 years ago, beijing has hardly any high rise buildings but since the 1990's because of Premier Deng Xiaoping's economic revolution, growth rate of China is 10% or more each year that it preceded a construction boom in china, Beijing Included, that nowadays, what you see in beijing is the trappings of a Modern Megapolis with many high rises and the metroplitan traffic and off course, mass transportaion hubs. Beijing is Cathing up with the megapolis of the world in terms of population, growth rate and modernity. But undereath this is still a consevative people with asian values! wonderful skyline, a blend of the old and new
It's cold
by mccrorj
If your going in the winter up to mid March prepare for the cold. I'm a big chap, well insulated the more polite would say, I'm also from Western Scotland and thought I knew about the cold. When I got out of beijing airport I was wearing almost ecerything I had brought it was bitter. Worst thing I hadn't brought a chap stick for my lips and within 24hours my mouth was cracked and sore. Heavy coat, fleece, hat, scarf and gloves Something to protect your lips from the cold Yes and plenty of film or memory as there is loads to see Check with residents as to when they expect the winter weather to pass. I left at the end of March and was strating to notice quite a dramatic increase in temps.
Beijing Museum of Tap Water
by nepalgoods
I just found out, that there is a Museum of Tap Water in Beijing, which shows the history of tap water in Beijing. I have not seen it yet, but I am sure, I visit, when I come to Beijing next time. It looks like a good idea to see the development of tap water during the last 100 years.
Party at Party World
by Oda_ about Karaoke
What a fantastic idea creating a kind of karaoke hotel! You rent a room and get your own karaokemachine. You can order drinks and there's a great buffet too. Someone ought to make this an international franchise! Great fun :D Casual, the best accessories is a group of friends :)
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the chairman lies in state there
Last chance to buy a hat or gloves...lol
FAILURE again on the Wall (photo by Alvin!)
ming empress crown
