It is finally a cool(ish) summer day. The sky is clear and beautiful and you are wondering how to best spend the day outdoors in your hood with your little ones. I have put together a simple itinerary, often repeated by many of Sanlitun’s moms. It will make the day, fun, memorable, and super summery.
Take a stroll around Sanlitun North; pass by all the big brand names and people watch. You might find some legendary cars parked in front of 3.3 (a bright yellow Ferrari) your kids will love it. Free car show! Keep your eye out for the people selling giant inflated balloons and splurge. Let your kids take some time picking out Hello Kitty, Superman, or a heart-shaped balloon. Stop by the DVD shop in the alley and stock up for the gloomy days you find yourself stuck indoors.
You’ve worked up an appetite and now its time to cross Sanlitun bar street and sit in the garden of Bocata, one of Sanlitun’s best kept secrets. It has European flair set in a gorgeous garden. Plus we haven’t seen the prices go up there in years and it has a relatively healthy menu. The spinach and bacon salad is to die for, long full paninis, juices, shakes, and olives are among my favorites . Try to get some friends to meet you there. Lunch is always better with friends.
Next, head back into Sanlitun and play in the fountains. Don’t be shy or scared of a little dirty water, all moms have been there. Just let the kids run around and get messy. It will be one of the highlights of their summer. See two of Beijing’s cutest kids Axl and Madeline Mollan, (twins age 4 and a half) demonstrating how it’s done.
Theresa Pauline is a yoga teacher, social entrepreneur, momma, wife, and beijingkids contributor. You can find out more about her at www.taozitreeyoga.com
Photo: Theresa Pauline
