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Trip Report

First time in China

Solo travelling for 2,5 weeks in China

  • Shanghai+ 6
  • Beijing
  • Beijing
  • First time in China
lucas
About Me:happy person traveling around the world read more

AsiaChina11 days / August 2019

Highs & Lows

Beijing duck will be sure the best one you had in your life

English is not spoken on very good level in most places in China

Itinerary Overview

  • 5 Nights: Beijing
    Culture, history
  • 2 Nights: Xi'an
    History
  • 4 Nights: Shanghai
    City vibe, fun
Beijing - Culture, history
1

Beijing Culture, history

Beijing - Culture, history - null
Beijing - Culture, history - null
Beijing - Culture, history - null

Beijing, it's a typical Chinese city where you don't see so much of the Western impact. Everything you will see there is authentic and kept in the original style. The first day I have spent hanging out in Nanluoguxiang which is typical Hutongs area. You will find unique architecture there and beautiful narrow streets filled with cozy restaurants and stores. During my stay in Beijing I have checked out parks like Beihai Park, Tiantan Park, Ditan Park and Summer Palace. Be sure to not skip those places because you will be amazed with the nature there and the great Chinese constructions you will pass on your way. My favorite attraction in this city is Forbidden city for which you should reserve much time  as it’s the biggest complex of the palaces in the world.

 

Xi'an - History
2

Xi'an History

Xi'an - History - null
Xi'an - History - null
Xi'an - History - null

Xian was the next city I have visited in China during my trip. The thing that is a total must-see and must-do is the Terracotta Army. You can take the bus from the city there or just buy an organized tour. Check out also the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and go on top of that. You will get a great panoramic view of the whole city. It is also really nice to rent a bike and cycle around the fortifications of Xian. It took me less than one hour to cycle around the whole fortifications and taking few pics on the way. 

 

Shanghai - City vibe, fun
3

Shanghai City vibe, fun

Shanghai - City vibe, fun - null
Shanghai - City vibe, fun - null
Shanghai - City vibe, fun - null

Shanghai is probably the most European city in China in terms of architecture because it used to be a British colony back in the day. Even though there are many similarities with European cities, you will find this city to be much different.  Here are the tallest skyscrapers in China and the biggest metro web in the world. Go to the Bund and you will have a great view of the business center along the river. You will also fin here beautiful historic buildings of Shanghai and many places to go shopping or just have lunch. During the night this area  is becoming a party vibe so if you are into partying definitely go there. It’s really nice to go on the top of Shanghai Tower and see the sunset with the view of the city from the 600 m above. Yu garden it’s really nice place if you want to chill out and escape for a bit from the big city vibe.  

Q & A

  • Anything go wrong during the trip?

    I missed my departure flight to Hong Kong because I went too late to the airport (my fault). Be sure to have enough time to get to the airport, Shanghai is a really huge city.
  • Restaurant recommendations?

    Go to some restaurants around Bund area. You will find great traditional Chinese food and all the international cuisines.
  • Tips you would give a friend?

    Enjoy your time in Shanghai. People love foreigners and you won't have a problem to communicate with the locals in English. You can have one of the best parties here.
  • Packing tips?

    Bring some comfortable clothes and most importantly shoes
  • Transportation Tips?

    Transportation in Shanghai is more than great but it's also a huge city so make sure to have enough time to get from one place to another.
  • Booking details?

    Use booking.com or airbnb in the terms of accomodation. The rest you can arrange on the spot or you can rely on websites like tripadvisor etc.

Lodging