Beijing Do's and Donts.

Off to Beijing for three days. What should I do and what should I not waste my time on?

Start your day early to make the most of the 3 days.

1) Move within the same locality so you can reduce the travel time. Visit Forbidden city, Tianamen Square, Chairman Mao's Memorial Hall(Latest: Hall is closed for renovation until 20th Sept.)

Walk 1-2 blks towards left side of Forbidden City and take a look at a Hutong. Move on to Behai or Zhongshan Park and end the day with Peking duck dinner & shopping in Wangfujing street.


2. Go to Great Wall & Ming Tombs.


3. Summer palace, pay the pandas a visit in the zoo and end the trip with Pearl Market(Hongqiao Market).


I find the Pearl Market a better venue, compared to Silk Market for souvenirs, pearls etc.


Beware of pickpockets.

Ask vendor to pick up fragile item first, as it may already be broken.

Check purchase in front of the salesperson(even for shops) to make sure that you get quality stuff before leaving the shop.


Hope this help.

Is Chairman Mao's Memorial Hall the large edifice that's currently under renovation?

Just googled. The memorial hall is closed until 20th Sept. Beijing is under major renovation works in preparation for the 2008 Olympics.

Thanks for the info' everyone. Did almost all that was suggested. I know we complain about the pollution here but....nothing compared to Beijing at the moment! Locals in total denial "90% mist 10% pollution" There is just so much building work going on. My suggestion? If you want to do Beijing wait until 2009. Most of the building will be finished and all the sites presently 'under renovation' will be renovated!!