Christmas is just around the corner, and if you’re looking to get in the holiday mood, Parkview Green has been transformed into a winter wonderland. Last Friday December 20 saw the official tree lighting ceremony, and an enormous multi-storey tree which begins on B1 and extends almost to the footbridge on L2 was illuminated. The tree is at the center of the basement level plaza, decorated with shiny red and gold ornaments and surrounded by gift boxes, and this being China, next year’s Chinese zodiac animal, the sheep.
Up above on L2 the sky walk has been dotted with smaller Christmas trees. See if you can take a selfie with one of the center’s flying cows in the background.
While at Parkview Green, check out the ongoing sale at The Gap. It’s one of the few stores in Beijing where taller and bigger-built men can find jeans long enough, and shoulders wide enough. There are lots of stocking filler presents available, such as winter slippers, furry hats, and even bright red long-johns.
Another store always worth a looks is COS. It’s from the same retail group as H&M, but couldn’t be further from it in terms of quality (and price point). This is where to pick up some well-designed basics, which always have a touch of modernity and elegance to them.
A newish and good location for lunch is Cafe Flo. It’s quite a large menu, with good brunch and afternoon tea options. Last time I was there I had the Confit de Canard (RMB 79) which was exactly as you’d expect – tender duck falling off the bone, lentils enriched with a tangy dash of vinegar.
And for this bargain lover, the centerpiece of any trip to Parkview Green is a trawl through the City Shop’s bargain shelves. Although it has a far more comprehensive selection of western foods than even our beloved April’s and Jenny’s, City Shop’s prices are generally 50 percent up. So find the discount areas (there are two I believe) and see what you can dig up. Every time I go I find something you can’t find anywhere else; and they generally give a decent runway before expiry date.
Photos: Courtesy of Park View Green
