In March 1999, my husband and I embarked on a memorable 10-day trip to Beijing, China, accompanied by another couple. Our journey was filled with iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and some unexpected twists that made it truly unforgettable.​

🏯 Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Experiences

1. The Great Wall of China

No trip to Beijing is complete without visiting the Great Wall. We explored the majestic structure, marveling at its historical significance and architectural grandeur. For those planning a visit, the Mutianyu section is renowned for its well-preserved condition and scenic surroundings, offering a less crowded experience compared to other sections. ​Travel China Guide

2. Hongqiao Pearl Market

Our shopping adventures led us to the bustling Hongqiao Pearl Market, Beijing's largest and most popular market for pearl jewelry, clothing, and luggage . The market's vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings made it a shopper's paradise.​ Trip Advisor

3. Factory Tours

As part of our tour, we visited various factories showcasing traditional Chinese crafts, including jade, silk, and cloisonné. These tours provided insight into China's rich artisanal heritage, but they seem staged and salesy. ​thenextexcursion.com

🎯 An Unexpected Adventure: The Shooting Range

Seeking a unique experience, we ventured to a shooting range outside Beijing, aiming to try out AK-47s. However, upon arrival, we discovered that the use of military weapons like the AK-47 had been banned in popular shooting ranges since February 1994 due to safety concerns . Despite the long, dusty journey through the countryside, this detour added an unexpected story to our travels.​

🏛️ A Special Connection: Lunch at the U.S. Embassy

During our stay, we had the unique opportunity to visit the U.S. Embassy in Beijing. At the time, Jim Sasser, a former U.S. senator from Tennessee, was serving as the ambassador to China . Through personal connections, we arranged a lunch with the ambassador's family. His daughter, fluent in Mandarin, guided us through the city, offering a local's perspective on Beijing's culture and daily life.​Vanderbilt Magazine

🧘‍♀️ A Surprising Prediction: Traditional Chinese Medicine

One of the most intriguing moments of our trip was visiting a traditional Chinese medicine clinic. The practitioner assessed my health by feeling my wrist and made a surprising prediction: I would be pregnant with twins. Astonishingly, upon returning home, I discovered I was indeed expecting twins, who were born 2 months early that October.​

🧳 Travel Tips for Beijing

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.​

• Transportation: Beijing's extensive subway system is efficient and affordable.​

• Language: While Mandarin is the official language, many signs in tourist areas include English translations.​

• Currency: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY).​

📸 Share Your Beijing Adventures

Capture and share your experiences in Beijing using these hashtags:​

#BeijingAdventures #GreatWallJourney #PearlMarketFinds #EmbassyExperience #TraditionalMedicineMystery

@shoutyourcause I’d love to return to China, see another large city and also some countryside. One day. #traveljunkie #china #digitalnomad ♬ original sound - Shout Your Cause with Sally