Beijing Travel Recommendations

[Horse]

Hey Peeps,

Im coming to BJ for the May holiday. Ive been a few times before and know my way round some of the well-trodden expat routes but am bringing my better half who has never been before and would like to show her some better spots.

Shes well into her art so will be hitting up 798, but would also like some recommendations for some nice bars (not expat ones in Sanlitun). Ive heard there are some good ones around Houhai Hu???

So any pointers gratefully received. Basically looking for any nice boho/artyish places to poke about, buy stuff, have a drink etc. Also any tips on good eats. Both into hotpot in a big way. Or any places we wont find in the LP.

Like i say ive been before and have a guide book, but im hoping some of you BJ heads will be able to give me the benefit of your local knowledge.

Cheers..............

[Horse]

No takers??? Will be leaving on Saturday, so any hot tips before then would be great.

Cheers

[Outofin]

Did you find this useful? Roddy have been putting his comments about different places in Beijing (not only the first post but also following posts).

[roddy]

You probably want to be looking at the directory and reviews on thebeijinger, localnoodles, dianping, etc. Sanlitun isn't as much of a mess as it used to be, but may well be busy over the May holiday. There will likely be events on in the evenings at 798, so dinner and drinks there may also be an option. There are also smaller 'art zones' at Caodichang and Fangjia Hutong, but don't know anything about them.

Houhai tends to be a chaos of touts and rickshaws and tourists. You've kind of got to go there for a look at least, but (like Sanlitun) I'd want to know where I'm going rather than turn up intending to have a wander about. Thats for the evening at least - pleasant enough during the day, although you'll still have rickshaws etc (and look out for the cheery old man who'll give you a big happy 你好 and when you return the favour give you an equally big happy 'Money?')

Nanluoguxiang is paved with bars, cafes, restaurants and shops - if it's a bit too busy for your tastes have a look down the side alleys running off it, or up to Beiluoguxiang / Wudaoying Hutong. I'd say that qualifies as artsy / boho, but expect a strong dash of tourist - both Chinese and foreign.

These tend to be places I go rarely or never, so I'm reluctant to hand out any specific recommendations. Should be enough to give you some hints in the right direction though.

Edited April 28, 2010 at 01:09 AM by roddy

[Horse]

Good stuff cheers for that.

Hope you have a good one