The Rodriguez family has been in Beijing over 3 years. Yahaira is from Dominican Republic and Josue is from Puerto Rico, and both lived in Florida, US. The vibrant Latin family has a 20-month-old son, Alexander.
Though the Rodriguezes enjoy a quiet life in Shunyi, they say their best experiences in Beijing are their visits to the hutongs and other historic sites. Yahaira is a member of a women’s group that raises funds for local orphanages. At a church, she takes care of the packages for children in need. As a daughter of service-minded parents and being adopted herself, Yahaira is always ready to lend a helping hand. She says it is part of her identity to be caring for other people.
Favorite Weekend Activity
Heading to a shopping center and walking around, and finding a nice play area for Alexander to meet new friends
Adopted Chinese Culture
Drinking hot water
Best Shop for Groceries
Jenny Wang in Shunyi, as it has what they need as a family
Best Stores for Mommies
Zara, Old Navy, Pull & Bear, and Stradivarius
Favorite Date Spot
The movies at Shine Hills
Favorite Dessert Spot
Awfully Chocolate at Indigo Mall.
Favorite Spot to Relax
Starlight Hair Salon at Euro Plaza. “It has amazing service and the best hair washing.”
Family Rituals
Getting a vacation every time the family has off
Best Daytrip
The city, either the Pearl Market or a Russian market.
Best Kid’s Clothes Shop
Old Navy with its great variety of clothing and good prices
Favorite Chinese Restaurant
Yixuan Dumpling Restaurant in Wangjing.
Favorite Website
www.taobao.com
Favorite Non-Chinese Restaurant
Redfort, an Indian Restaurant at Shine Hills
Photos by Dave’s Studio
This is an updated version of the article that originally appeared on p. 64 of beijingkids April Issue. Download the digital copy here.
