Beijing is a cosmopolitan city with a forest of high rise sky-scrapers and residential apartment blocks tickling the thick fog of dirty air that assures a steady stream of cloudy days. It is modern, gray and impersonal. Yet, a visit to the hutongs, which still hold the essence of old Beijing within their narrow streets and small eateries, shows a different side not visible in the rest of the city.
A must see destination.
This blog is about the life of two vagabonds and their three children, right now traveling around the world on a shoe-string budget. It is written by me, the female lead character, as I am the only one with enough patience and commitment to do so. Welcome.
Bran Castle, where no Dracula can be found
"Very few things are as exciting as they are presented in writing."
How wise you are :-) I will try to keep that in mind for our next journey...
Bran Castle, where no Dracula can be found
Just wanted to add in that yes, they knew the story attached to the castle, but we did not build it up. Mostly just as an interesting information a...
Bran Castle, where no Dracula can be found
Jenny, we mostly go where we fancy and the kids comply. Sometimes happily, sometimes not so much. They are not really involved in the itinerary ser...
© Copyright 2010 Snaps & Blabs
So glad to learn that the charm of “Old Beijing” still exists. I was there in the early 90′s (shortly after they reopened China for tourism following Tiananmen) and have been reluctant to return, thinking that “the boom” must surely have tarnished my nostalgic memories. Can’t wait to see your “Snaps ‘n Blabs” about it.
Dyanne, unfortunately not much of it is left, just a few spots around the city, which I am sure will not stand for much longer. Yes, there are a few poshed up stand-ins for traditional streets, but they feel like an amusement park. I found China lacking in exactly the authentic cultural part, which was very surprising. Not in a good way.