Albert and Elisabeth van Lawick van Pabst are in their 11th year in Beijing. In these years, they have had three kids, Bernadette (9) Diederik (7) and new addition Constance (4 months). This family hails from the Netherlands. Albert founded and runs a growing sustainable technology business and Elisabeth is a milliner (hat maker) of some repute, running numerous workshops around Beijing for those wanting to learn the art of proper head decor.
Favorite way to transport the family around the city
On foot, by bike or in a Didi
Favorite Spot to Relax
With two kids, two businesses and a baby? No time to relax!
Favorite Weekend Activity
We love to go hiking out by the wall.
Favorite Website
ElisabethKoch.net, beijingkids.com and of course Taobao.
Favorite Chinese Restaurant
As a family, it has got to be Haidilao. The staff is wonderful, plus kids love the play room and noodle man.
Favorite Non Chinese Restaurant
GungHo! Pizza. The best pizza hands down. We have been fans from the start!
Best Daytrip
Dongyuemiao (Temple)
Family Rituals
Weekend movie night!
Adapted Chinese Culture
We have lucky red decorations on our front door and visit Taisui’s statue every year.
Favorite shop for groceries
The local market for fruit and vegetebles, Jingkelong for local things, April Gourmet for foreign goods.
Favorite place for date night
I’m afraid we don’t have time for this but I wish it were Hatsune.
Favorite place to play indoors
Kerry Center’s Adventure Zone
Favorite place to play outdoors
Boating or playing football in Chaoyang Park
Favorite neighborhood
Our neighborhood, Xingfucun
Favorite Museum
The Natural History Museum and the National Museum of China at Tiananmen.
Photo: Uni You
This article appeared on p64 of beijingkids April 2018 issue
