Beijing
One of the first cities we visited was Beijing. And, no, we didn't visit the forbidden city because it was way too crowded. We wanted to but when we were at the entrance we just said "No thanks" ;-).
But we visited the Summer Palace and that was also a great experience. And of course we went to the Great Wall. Is a must, isn't it. And I have to say that it is extremely impressive!
It was so impressive that I realized it after a few days had gone by. One can't digest it the moment he or she is there. It's jus too amazing and a bit surreal.
We went to Simatai which is three hours driving from Beijing. I have to say that 6 hours (3 forth and back) in a chinese taxi is also an experience. A painfull for the bum :-)
We planned to have dinner in a restaurant where they serve imperial food, but we stayed in our hotel and ordered burger, a cheese plate and sweets on our romm and had a cosy night in bed watching television gourmandising ;-)
The hotel was great. We stayed in the Beijing Grand Hotel which lies next to the Forbidden City (so we DID see it because we had a direct view on it). Elegant, stylish and the best breakfast we ever had.
We spend ages having breakfast in the beautiful room and enjoyed the morning in "dolce far niente".
Just have a look at the gallery to get a swift impression.
