German Jens Hoch and his Australian wife Susan have been living in Beijing for the past three years. They love exploring the city with their 2-year-old daughter Frieda and are eagerly awaiting the arrival of baby number two. Here they share some of their favorite spots around the capital.
Best Place to Celebrate
Capital M if it’s a party of two, or Sunday brunch at Westin
Chaoyang with Frieda.
Favorite Neighborhood
Nanluogu Xiang – but it has changed a lot.
Best Date Night
Mosto at Nali Patio.
Favorite Family Restaurant
Element Fresh. The highchairs, crayons, and varied menu make it kid-friendly.
Favorite Shop Spot
United Colors of Benetton – Susan likes their accessories. For children’s
clothes, they head to Yashow Market. For kids shoes: Naturino at Kempinski and Decathlon.
Weekend Fun
We head out on our bikes to Laitai Flower Market or just wander through the hutongs. For a weekend away, we like the Village View Resort in Huairou. It’s a nice place to stay overnight, enjoy some greenery and go swimming.
Favorite Snack
The cupcakes at Colibri are pretty good. They also have nice food, plenty of space, good coffee and highchairs.
Favorite Way to Relax
Having a take-away coffee at an outdoor playground, watching Frieda go down the slides and play in the sandpit with her friends.
Best Playground
When the weather is good, we go to Ritan Park. Otherwise, indoor options include The Familier and You You Club (优游镇小英才俱乐部) on the second fl oor of The Place.
This article is excerpted from beijingkids August 2011 issue. View it in PDF form here or contact distribution@beijing-kids.com to find out where you can pick up your free copy.
