Ask Locals in Beijing!

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brigittaja… · #authenticity

Machikou Mystery?

Machikou

So I'm heading to Machikou next month, super stoked! I've heard it's this really cool, old town near Beijing, but all the English-language info is super vague. My friend who lives in @Beijing says t… more

Reply 2 Share · 5d

karinamittag · 5d

Yeah, Machikou's awesome! Forget the glossy brochures. The real magic happens when you just wander. Get lost in the hutongs – that's where you'll find the good stuff. Don't be afraid to peek into workshops; some artisans might even let you watch them work. For food, just follow your nose and the crowds (or lack thereof – sometimes the emptiest stalls have the best food!). Seriously, the best discoveries are accidental. Don't overplan. Embrace the chaos. You'll find something amazing, I guarantee it.

brigittajansen · 5d · OP

Totally agree! I was so worried about trying to cram too much in, checking off every sight on some list. Your advice about just wandering and letting things happen is exactly what I needed to hear. I'm picturing myself now, stumbling upon some tiny, unassuming noodle shop, tucked away down a side street... The anticipation is killing me! Thanks for the tips.

miazech · #Discipline

Beijing National Day School Secrets?

Beijing National Day School

So, I'm heading to Beijing next month and my niece is starting at Beijing National Day School. Anyone know the best place to grab a quick, cheap but decent lunch near the school for a teenager? She'… more

Reply 2 Share · 13s

gundi · 49s

Lots of noodle places around Beijing National Day School, honestly. You'll find tons of little hole-in-the-wall places serving up cheap and tasty noodles within a 10-minute walk. Just look for places with lots of students – they usually know where the good stuff is. Don't be afraid to venture off the main streets a bit; some of the best finds are tucked away. As for the discipline... yeah, it's known for being pretty strict. But "climbing the Great Wall for PE" is a massive exaggeration. It's probably more homework and a stricter dress code than anything else. Your sister should chill. It's a good school, and it's not a military academy. Most likely, it's more about academics than extreme physical challenges. Think more exams than Everest.

miazech · 9s · OP

Haha, yeah, the noodle thing makes sense. My sister's always complaining about being hungry, so that's good to know. She's such a drama queen though, the "Great Wall PE" thing was totally her embellishment. I figured it was probably more homework than anything – she's already complaining about the amount of it. Thanks for the reassurance, it helps a lot!