· Matt and Julia
THE JOURNEY IS OVER
Matt and Julia leave Beijing after their final Mandarin lesson, a trip to Hongqiao Market, a farewell dinner, and a final reflection at Beijing Daxing Airport.
Explore this journey ↗China Travel Guide: Beijing Vlog, China trip advice & tips
Beijing Vlog
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21 min2024-12THE JOURNEY IS OVERBeijing Farewell: Matt & Julia's China Journey ConcludesIf you'd like to learn Mandarin in Beijing, check out LTL Mandarin School.Bargaining is common in Chinese markets. Be prepared to negotiate prices, but be respectful. It can be a fun, albeit sometimes uncomfortable, experience.Winter, Beijing
14 min2024-12I Returned To China, and This Happened...Beijing Cultural Immersion: Dancing & Music in China's CapitalTry an activity outside your comfort zone when you feel comfortable doing so. Emeka begins with playground equipment and then joins a dance in the park.Emeka’s playground experience shows how trying unfamiliar equipment can become enjoyable after an initial concern about heights.Winter, Beijing
23 min2024-12Beijing is NOT what you think First 48 hours in ChinaBeijing Exploration: Forbidden City, Great Wall & HutongsAlways carry your passport when visiting major attractions like Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall. It's an essential travel document for Download Alipay onto your phone before your trip. It's a primary method of payment for shops, restaurants, and public transport in China, offering seamless tranWinter, Beijing
31 min2024-12Speaking Chinese in a Beijing Market (after two weeks of study)Beijing Market Mandarin Challenge: A Couple's Language Learning AdventureApple Pay, Google Pay, and Alipay can make daily metro rides in Beijing convenient. Matt and Julia show mobile payment as part of their routine while traveling Learn a few Mandarin phrases for shopping before visiting a market. Matt and Julia try bargaining at Pangu Yuan Market, and using new words helps them practice Winter, Beijing
45 min2024-12Living a Dynasty Dream: Solo American's Travel Guide to Beijing's HighlightsBeijing Solo Trip: Forbidden City, Great Wall & Dynasty DreamWhen exploring the Forbidden City, remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking involved. Allow ample time to fully appreciate the vastness aTiananmen Square is best visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday crowds. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about itsWinter, Beijing
23 min2024-11LIVING IN BEIJING, CHINA (as a Foreigner) First Week Studying Chinese!Beijing Study Abroad: A Couple's Mandarin JourneyBeijing rush-hour travel can take about 45 minutes for a commute. Matt and Julia plan their trip to language school around that time, and leaving earlier can maOctober weather in Beijing can change through the day. Pack layers for warm sunshine as well as cooler, misty conditions so you are prepared for both.Autumn, Beijing
20 min2024-11WE MOVED TO BEIJING, CHINA (a new start)Beijing Adventure: Learning Mandarin & Living in ChinaAfter six weeks traveling across China, Matt and Julia moved to Beijing to study Mandarin. Their earlier trip also helped them scout locations for possible grouMatt and Julia settle into a home with a local family and begin classes at LTL Language School. They describe the first days as intense, with a lot of informatiAutumn, Beijing
14 min2024-11Beijing’s MASSIVE Lama Temple, Hidden Alleys & Giant LCD Screen!Beijing Exploration: Lama Temple, Hutongs & Modern MarvelsSven buys a scarf near his hotel for around 50 RMB, or about 5–6 USD, and uses it as both a souvenir and protection from the cold.The hutongs are winding lanes with small shops and local businesses. Sven explores them on foot and finds unexpected shops along the way.Autumn, Beijing
5 min2024-11I'm back again in CHINA! (First time in Beijing)Beijing Exploration: Qianmen Street and BeyondExplore local supermarkets to discover distinctive snacks and everyday items. It's a great way to experience local life and find affordable treats.Visit Qianmen Street for a blend of traditional architecture and modern shopping. Take the free shopping train for a convenient way to explore the entire streetAutumn, Beijing
23 min2024-10Beijing is BETTER Than We Expected | Beijing China Guide 2024Beijing 2024 Travel Guide: Exploring China's CapitalTicket purchases in China can involve different payment methods and interactions with vendors. The source shows Oliver purchasing entry for Jingshan Park, so beBe open to trying local snacks and drinks even when they look unfamiliar. Oliver samples several foods in Beijing, and the unexpected items become part of his eAutumn, Beijing
22 min2024-10BEIJING CHINA'S Forbidden City Will LEAVE You SPEECHLESS!Beijing Forbidden City: A Journey Through Imperial ChinaRide-hailing apps can be useful in Beijing, but Oliver's experience shows that finding the correct driver may take a little time. Confirm the driver and pickup Expect several security checkpoints when visiting major historical sites such as the Forbidden City. Oliver passes through multiple checks, with staff inspectinAutumn, Beijing
24 min2024-10STRESSFUL Arrival in Beijing, China This Country SHOCKED Us!Beijing Arrival: First Impressions of ChinaBe prepared for potential issues when traveling to larger cities in China, especially during peak tourist season. It's always a good idea to have backup plans.Apple Maps may not work reliably outside of China, so plan your trip beforehand using other resources. Download offline maps and information.Autumn, Beijing
50 min2024-10Lost on the Streets of Beijing, China (Forbidden City)Beijing Exploration: Forbidden City & Local LifeFor details on entering China, watch my previous video about the necessary paperwork and procedures.Download useful apps like Didi, Alipay, and Google Maps before your trip; they work well even without a VPN.Autumn, Beijing
33 min2024-09Our FIRST DAY In China People Warned Us Not To Visit China…Beijing First Impressions: Forbidden City & Hutong ExplorationThe source advises booking Forbidden City tickets directly through its website seven days before visiting, at 8 p.m. Beijing time. Jay and Karolina use this timAlipay is useful for payments during a China trip. Jay and Karolina use it for purchases, and describe the app as a wallet on the phone that also includes transAutumn, Beijing
37 min2024-09FIRST TIME In China China is NOT What We Expected…First-Time Beijing: Airport, Subway, and Hot PotUse an eSIM from Holafly for unlimited data in China. It's easy to activate and offers convenience for staying connected.Download Alipay and WeChat for cashless payments. These apps are essential for transactions and accessing various services in China.Autumn, Beijing
9 min2024-07Why Everyone Wants to Visit Guangzhou, ChinaGuangzhou's Beijing Street: A Journey Through History and CommerceExplore Beijing Street in Guangzhou, a busy street with a mix of modern and traditional shops. Be sure to check out the unique architecture and lively atmospherSample various types of tea at a local tea shop. Engage with the vendor and learn about the different teas and their functions. It's a great way to experience lSummer, Foshan / Guangdong
2 hr 21 min2024-07How To Travel China (Full Documentary)China Documentary: Exploring Shanghai, Beijing & ChongqingNanjing Road in Shanghai is a busy pedestrian street with shops, malls, and food stalls. It's a great place to experience the city's energy and diversity.Shanghai is heavily policed, but this doesn't detract from the safety and orderliness of the city. The police actively assist pedestrians crossing the road.Summer, Chongqing
17 min2024-07Soaking up Tibetan Culture in Shangri-LaShangri-La Travel Vlog: Exploring Tibetan Culture in Yunnan, ChinaIn Hindu culture, small doorways symbolize bowing upon entry. Consider if similar cultural crossover exists in Shangri-La's architecture.Yak is a staple in this region; try Yak milk, yogurt, cheese, and meat.Summer, Lhasa / Tibet
21 min2024-07NOT what we expected in China's Capital City! First Time in BEIJINGBeijing Exploration: Culture, History & CrowdsThe source advises carrying your passport in Beijing because you may be asked for it frequently. Eoin and Aisling encounter checks while moving around the city.Unlike some other cities, Beijing’s metro in the source does not offer multi-day passes, so travelers need to buy individual tickets. Eoin and Aisling find the Summer, Chongqing
36 min2024-07CHINESE LOCAL Shows Us What They REALLY EAT In CHINA…Beijing Food Tour: Donkey Burger to Hot PotWear gloves when eating street food if you want to avoid getting your hands dirty. The travelers found this especially helpful when trying unfamiliar dishes witBe open to trying unfamiliar foods and textures. The brothers sample several dishes during the day, including items that surprise them.Summer, Beijing
20 min2024-07LIJIANG is China's Most Beautiful SpotLijiang, Yunnan: Exploring Ancient Streets and Jade Dragon Snow MountainFor long-term travel, invest in high-quality, durable suitcases to avoid excess baggage fees. Consider the Gibraltar aluminum suitcases for their durability andFind affordable accommodation in Lijiang's old town for around £7 per night. Enjoy the charm of the area and its convenient location.Summer, Lijiang / Yunnan
25 min2024-07CHINA Is NOT What We EXPECTED! OUR FIRST DAY in Beijing, CHINA!Beijing Exploration: First Day in China's CapitalExpect to use online apps for many ticket purchases and bookings in China. ZingwiBrothers mention Chinese apps during their first day in Beijing.Explore the city on foot or by bike and try roasted duck along the way. The couple also stops to see what else they can find in the local food areas.Summer, Beijing
27 min2024-07Our BEST day so far in ChinaBeijing Exploration: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City & Great WallThe Great Wall is new to the travelers, and the approach builds anticipation. Their visit becomes an exciting day of exploring the wall and trying the rides.Souvenir shops near the Great Wall offer keepsakes to remember the trip. The travelers include time to look at items while visiting the site.Summer, Beijing
21 min2024-07Travelling to China's SPICIEST Region | China Vlog 2024China's Spicy Chongqing: A Culinary JourneyNavigating large train stations like Beijing West can be hectic, so arrive early and use apps like Didi for transportation. Be prepared for security checks and Hotel locations in China may not always be accurate on maps. Use local apps like Didi or confirm the address with your hotel, and be prepared for an unexpected Summer, Chongqing
19 min2024-07Riding the Beijing Metro (FIRST time!) | Public Transport in China 2024Beijing Metro: A Traveler's ExperienceIn China, everyone stands still on the escalators, two by two, because the crowds are so big. You can't walk down the escalator like in the West.The Beijing metro is surprisingly affordable. The price is very good, especially compared to London, where a similar journey would cost significantly more.Summer, Beijing
18 min2024-07First Impressions of CHINA'S Capital | Beijing, China 2024Beijing Exploration: First Impressions of China's CapitalPat and Giulia say the food they found in an expensive Beijing mall was affordable. They also describe a meal at another local restaurant as having many vegetarBefore traveling to a restaurant, compare its name and location in more than one map app. Pat and Giulia found different names and map pins in Google Maps and ASummer, Beijing
35 min2024-06We can't believe China looks like THIS! First day in BeijingBeijing Exploration: First Impressions of ChinaNotice Beijing's grey-brick walls and alleyways as you walk. Traditional houses remain beside modern amenities, showing the city's mix of older residential areaBeijing combines traditional architecture with modern conveniences. Visit historical areas such as Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City while also observing Summer, Beijing
23 min2024-06$5 Street Massage in Kunming ChinaKunming Banknote Hunt: Exploring Yunnan's Cultural TreasuresAlan and Shannon collect currency from countries they visit, and the Kunming market turns up vintage Chinese banknotes. The source suggests keeping notes as souDo not assume every wet market is dirty. Alan and Shannon find the Kunming market clean and well maintained, which differs from some past experiences. Take a loSummer, Kunming / Yunnan
25 min2024-06Riding On Guangzhou's Driverless BusGuangzhou's Driverless Bus: A Futuristic RideUse the AO app for easy international data connectivity, avoiding the hassle of local SIM card purchases at the airport.Use Alipay and QR codes at restaurants for easy ordering and payment, avoiding language barriers and menu misunderstandings.Summer, Beijing
22 min2024-06CRAZY NIGHTLIFE in CHINA… (I Had No Idea Beijing Was THIS Wild!)Beijing Nightlife Exploration: A First-Timer's JourneyRenting a bike is an affordable way to see Beijing, especially where there are dedicated bike lanes. On Tour With Dridgers use Alipay to pay for their ride.Phones handle payments and communication during the trip, so keeping a battery charged is useful. Rental power banks are available around the city.Summer, Beijing
17 min2024-05DO THIS When You Visit the Great Wall of ChinaGreat Wall & Tiananmen Square: A Beijing AdventureMutianyu can be a quieter alternative to Badaling. The chairlift and toboggan let visitors experience the wall and descend the mountain by a different route. ThMutianyu offers a less crowded visit, and the toboggan ride adds a descent after walking along the wall. The quieter route gives more room to walk and take in tSpring, Beijing
14 min2024-03Chinese Wedding Dresses SHOCKED ME AMWF Relationship Q+A #shanghai #amwfChinese Wedding Dresses: Shanghai & HangzhouNatt recommends the wt2 edge device for international travel or conversations with people who speak another language. It is a wearable translator that provides For a Chinese wedding, a bride often changes into around three to five dresses. The outfits may be worn for the morning tea ceremony, lunch, receiving guests, tSpring,
20 min2024-02Is Nanning Worth Visiting...?Nanning, Guangxi: Exploring Parks & Culture in Southern ChinaObserve local customs, such as ordering food with pictures, to avoid misunderstandings and enhance your cultural immersion.Ordering food using pictures is common in China, making communication easier, especially if you do not speak Mandarin.Winter, Nanning / Guangxi
17 min2024-02SHOCKED By KFC in China... Better than KFC in America?KFC in China: Beijing's Unexpected Culinary DelightKFC in China offers menu items such as chicken feet that are not usually found in Western locations. The hosts try unfamiliar dishes as part of their Beijing taThe vloggers try an unusual combination by dipping fries into ice cream and say they surprisingly enjoyed it.Winter, Beijing
15 min2024-02Is This the BEST Hot Pot in Beijing, China? (First Time Trying Hotpot)Beijing Hot Pot: A Culinary Adventure in ChinaA first hot pot meal can feel hands-on and confusing at the start. Libby is trying the meal for the first time, so the video shows her learning how to cook the Different hot pot ingredients need different cooking times. The pair cook meats, vegetables, and noodles in the broth, so keeping track of each item helps them Winter, Chongqing
26 min2024-02CRAZY Chinese New Year Adventure in Beijing, China... (Dragons to Dumplings)Beijing Chinese New Year: Hutong ExplorationNanluoguxiang is described as one of Beijing’s oldest hutong areas, with a history of 700–800 years and a mix of traditional shops and street food.Sample street foods such as soup, skewers and noodles from vendors along the hutong route. The travelers try several dishes while walking through the neighborhoWinter, Beijing
28 min2024-02China is ready for Chinese New Year... Beijing looks IncredibleBeijing's Xidan Shopping Malls: A Unique China ExperienceBeijing has many shopping malls, and Xidan is one area where several are close together. The travelers visit multiple malls during their day, so it can be usefuBeauty product shops are often on the ground floor of the Beijing malls featured in the video. If you are looking for those stores, check the lower level first.Winter, Beijing
18 min2024-02Controlled By ChatGPT In CHINA'S Most "Advanced City"Shenzhen Exploration: AI-Planned Day TripExplore Dafen Oil Painting Village for its art studios and colorful streets. Alan and Shannon buy two hand-painted works as souvenirs, and the original tip alsoShenzhen has coastal areas as well as city neighborhoods. Alan and Shannon find a beach with cafes and a pier; pack swimwear and sunscreen, and the source notesWinter, Shenzhen / Guangdong
21 min2024-02My 1st Day In Beijing, ChinaBeijing Exploration: Great Wall, Forbidden City & Peking DuckBe prepared for icy conditions on the Great Wall, especially during winter. Wear appropriate footwear and take your time.Book tickets for Tiananmen Square at least one day in advance to avoid queues. Your hotel staff might be able to assist.Winter, Beijing
44 min2024-02LOST and HUNGRY in CHINA... (THIS is How They Treat You in China)Tianjin Exploration: A Lost and Hungry Adventure in ChinaMixue bubble tea is a quick, refreshing stop and a popular choice among local people. The travelers stop at a Mixue shop early in their visit and receive help pTianjin’s local night markets offer street food and snacks you may not find elsewhere. The travelers explore a market with colorful stalls, lanterns and a mostlWinter, Tianjin
43 min2024-01Is THIS Really CHINA...? Why is NO ONE Here?Tianjin Travel Vlog: Exploring China's Hidden GemThe train from Beijing to Tianjin takes about half an hour, making the city a convenient day trip or addition to a Beijing itinerary. The train takes about halfSet up Alipay before arriving in China to make payments easier. The source says it is widely accepted and useful for visitors. The couple use mobile payments whWinter, Tianjin
27 min2024-01FIRST TIME on WORLDS FASTEST Bullet Train from Beijing, ChinaChina's High-Speed Rail: Beijing Bullet Train ExperienceBook train tickets online through Trip.com, as Sun Kissed Bucket List did, to reduce last-minute stress and the chance of ticketing problems before traveling.Beijing South Railway Station has several food choices before boarding, including KFC, McDonald's, Burger King and Costa Coffee, so travelers can eat before theWinter, Beijing
35 min2024-01Our EMOTIONAL Moment at The Great Wall of China... (This Changed Us) BeijingBeijing Great Wall: A Transformative China AdventureConsider a shared bus transfer to Mutianyu instead of hiring a private car. The travelers find the shared option more affordable and say it leaves time to exploVisit in the winter off-season if you want shorter waits for activities such as the toboggan ride.Winter, Beijing
30 min2024-01CRAZY NIGHTLIFE in Beijing, China... (ALONE in China at Night)Beijing Nightlife: Exploring China's Capital After DarkExplore Wanfujing Street for its festive decorations, steady foot traffic and distinctive shops. The large billboards and 3D advertisements are among the detailPortable power banks are available at charging stations around the city. The travelers use the rental system during their evening so their phones remain chargedWinter, Beijing
22 min2024-01AVOID The Great Wall Of CHINA In Winter...Great Wall of China Winter: A Solo JourneyConsider using public transport to the Great Wall, even in winter; it can be surprisingly easy and affordable.If you encounter difficulties with public transport, ask locals for assistance; they are often very helpful.Winter, Beijing
59 min2024-01Beijing is NOT what we Expected... (CRAZY First Day Back in China)Beijing Exploration: A First-Day Surprise in ChinaAvoid visiting the Temple of Heaven on a Monday if you want to enter the main temple, which is closed that day.Keep your Temple of Heaven ticket because it can also provide access to other areas within the complex.Winter, Beijing
18 min2024-01Eating At The Best PEKING DUCK Restaurant In BEIJINGBeijing's Best Peking Duck: A Culinary AdventureSiji Mingfu is known for Peking duck and is presented as one of Beijing’s leading restaurants for the dish. The group enjoys the duck and tries the skin dipped Siji Mingfu’s menu includes many dishes besides Peking duck. The group goes with their friend Lu, who helps them read the choices and decide what to order. If yWinter, Chongqing
17 min2024-01Religion Is NOT Banned In China??….Exploring XI'AN Through the Eyes of a LocalXi'an Exploration: A Local's PerspectiveTry the Chinese hamburger on Muslim Street. The filling combines tender beef with onions, peppers, and chilies, and Alan says the meat has enough flavor that heMeeting local people can help you find places and foods you would otherwise miss. Mindy takes Alan and Shannon to an ice cream shop and shares her recommendatioWinter, Xi'an / Shaanxi
28 min2023-1024 Hours Inside China's Capital City (Crazy Day in Beijing)Beijing Adventure: A 24-Hour Whirlwind JourneyJosie and her companion find local people willing to help despite the language barrier. Staying open to assistance can make it easier to work through unexpectedJosie uses Apple Maps to navigate public transport in China because Google Maps is not fully functional for her. Having a working map app helped her and her comAutumn, Beijing
18 min2023-10Riding the WORLDS FASTEST Bullet Train From Shanghai to Beijing, ChinaChina Bullet Train: Shanghai to Beijing High-Speed Rail JourneyIf visiting China before your train trip, arrive at the station early to secure tickets and assigned seats. This can help avoid last-minute seat-selection problConsider staying outside the centers of Beijing or Shanghai and using the metro to reach attractions. The source says these systems are efficient and affordableAutumn, Beijing
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