Ask an expert
Q. My wife and I are going to China for the first time in a few months. We are so excited! Would you please help us with advice on which city is best to get a first taste of the country. And what time of year is best to travel? A. For a great first taste of China I would suggest visiting Beijing.
Beijing is going to give you a taste of everything and a great idea of what China has to offer on the whole – the city offers an incredible mix of culture, the most amazing sights, history, food and shopping too.
Walking the Great Wall is a once-in-a-lifetime experience – try to be on the Wall at sunset, the views are amazing.
Riding a rickshaw through the laneways of the local hutongs and having lunch at a local house is also one of those ‘‘must-do’’ tourist experiences.
You can take in China’s fascinating history walking through Tiananmen Square and the ancient Forbidden City, or the Ming Tombs and Sacred Way.
Just out of Beijing is the Summer Palace, which is breathtakingly beautiful. Be sure to go to the Kung Fu Show and have a traditional Peking duck dinner – YUM!
The best time of year to visit Beijing is in spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) to avoid extreme temperatures. Beijing is an exciting city – enjoy!
– Amanda Ellis, senior travel consultant, House of Travel Barrington
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