Beijing

Beijing--November 13~15, 2014

Our whirlwind tour in China almost comes to an end. We have been making good use of the high speed trains throughout this trip and our last leg on the train was from Nanjing to Beijing. The train rides were enjoyable and comfortable except one aspect--if you have bags bigger than a carry-on size it could be hectic. In our case, we made good use of the 'red caps' at each station when available. Paying about $10RMB for each piece of luggage made a world of difference and so worth it! With priority boarding and not having to stay in line with the crowds made it a much easier transition from the waiting hall to the door of the train. Once you are on the train you still have to find ways to settle your luggage though.

Complimentary drink and snacks provided on the first class train car on this five-hour ride.

First class car--notice we had to lift the luggage up to the rack, doable but only with strong muscles.

Stopping at one of the cities along the way.

Dinner--"must have"--Peking Duck!

Hotel--Novotel Beijing. This is the entrance to their buffet restaurant where we had our breakfast. Good choices and varieties but can be very crowded in the morning. Love their yogurt drink!

Rooms are spacious but dated.

I think a 'face-lift' is in order.

Our room facing the main street, which made it interesting watching the activities in the morning.

Exterior of Novotel Beijing

One of the government buildings on the same street. Forgot what it was.

I think this is the "Hou Hai" Lake (Back Sea).

Historical area in Beijing, absolutely beautiful!

So peaceful!

Former residence of Soong Ching Ling (Mrs. Sun Yat Sen). Unfortunately, we were scheduled for a meeting and did not get a chance to visit this place.

After the meeting we continue our walk to a restaurant nearby for an official luncheon.

Street side barber shop

Restaurant where we had our amazing lunch hosted by a certain government office.

Look at the presentations!

Other than the appetizers, dishes were served individually.

Tung Po Pork Belly

crab and shrimps

Even though I was not feeling well and couldn't eat anything, I couldn't resist tasting this delicious beef in special broth. Incredible!

Well decorated atmosphere

One of the pieces in the garden

Entrance

Last glimpse of the lake

Hutong (Alley)

This area is old Beijing, with hutongs and old buildings all around.

With the free afternoon, we visited Wang Fu Jing, which is a short walk from the hotel.

a pedestrian street

Snack Alley

A modern and upscale shopping mall all decorated for Christmas.

Passing the CCTV building on our way to the airport.

Beijing Airport (Domestic)

Domestic Terminal