Beijing, capital of the People’s Republic of China, is one of the world’s most populated and fastest growing cities. Although virtually unrecognizable from one decade to the next, some of Beijing’s wonderfully unique characteristics have endured. As dusk falls and rush hour commences, tens of thousands of bicycles mob the city’s streets (roughly 20% of Beijing’s residents commute by bike). In spring, Beijing’s parks and universities burst into color with a proliferation of pink and white plum blossom. Storefronts are filled to bursting with Yue Bing (mooncakes) during the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the winding streets of its historical Hutong districts provide a taster of the Beijing of yesteryear—though these are sadly disappearing. Even as quickly as the city remodels itself as a futurist hub, you can behold its ancient heritage in the Imperial architecture of the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace. Beijing city radiates out from its famed Tian’anmen (Heavenly Peace Gates) district in concentric ring roads – six in all, extending 20 kilometers from the city center. Fifteen years ago, you would have struggled to live in Beijing without a working knowledge of Mandarin. These days, however, Beijing’s younger generation prides itself on speaking English, making the city far more accessible, and an increasing number of foreign companies operating in the city lend it a decidedly cosmopolitan feel. These days, international luxuries such as fine wines and cheeses are fairly easy to find, though of course at a premium. Going local is, more often than not, a rewarding adventure. The local beers and bai jiu (high proof rice wine), mouthwatering ‘jiaozi’ (Beijing-style dumplings), and sumptuous Beijing Kaoya (its famed orange duck) are unbeatable—both on quality and price. The city is steeped in culture, not least in its tearooms and tea ceremonies. Savoring the staggering selection of teas will become a relished ritual. While a taste for Chinese opera may take some acquiring, the rest of the city’s cultural calendar is filled to bursting. International jazz and performing arts festivals, a plethora of fantastic galleries, historic sites (not least the Great Wall), parks with lakes that can be sailed in during summer and skated upon during winter…there is no shortage of activities that will leave a lasting impression of your stay, be it short or long-term, here in the Northern Capital.