Most of us aren’t going home for the holidays. It sucks, ’nuff said. Now, what do you say we make the most of it? There are worse places to be stranded in than a cosmopolitan city with tons of resources. So let’s take a look at some of the amazing things happening right here in Beijing that are worth looking forward to.
German Christmas Market: No one loves Christmas quite like the Germans and they go all out. Amazing decorations, mulled wine, and tons of fun crafts and great shopping. Hit it up on Nov 27 to kick off the season in homey, comforting style. Info Below!
Fragrant Hills: Or any of the other billions of cool hiking locations within a two-hour drive. We have a few weeks of great hiking weather left before the real cold snap hits. So go get some fresh air and watch the leaves before they fall. Check out Beijing Hikers’ official WeChat account at Beijing Hikers or The CN Travelers group (chinatravellers.com) for lots of fun end of fall ideas.
Catching Olympic fever: The Opening Ceremony isn’t until Feb 4, but the official Olympic Flame landed in the capital last month. Start brushing up on athletes to watch and maybe even create a family bracket for your favorite sports.
Decorate with a twist: If you don’t want to do traditional bobbles, find local decorations to trim your tree. Instead of glass balls try red lanterns, lucky cats, or stuffed baozi that you can leave up through Chinese New Year. Not only will it make a fun memory but it’s sure to make for great social media posts. Let the kids get creative.
New Year’s Eve: It may not be New York or Sydney but it’s got stellar views and much fewer crowds. Pick an awesome New Year’s party with a great view of the city and say hello to 2022 in style.
Shop ’til you drop: If you’re not traveling, you’re saving a lot of cash, and China just happens to be where all the good stuff is made. Spend a little on your favorite luxuries or go all out for friend gifts. A bit of self-pampering will do you a world of good and remind you that most of us can’t live this well in our home countries.
Love the ones you’re with: I know some of us can’t be with our families (immediate or extended) this year but your Beijing besties are pretty awesome. Make some cocoa, put on some footy PJs, and watch It’s a Wonderful Life with the people who have kept you grounded and lifted you up over the past year. Family is more than blood relations.
KEEP READING: Giving Children the Gift of a Gratitude Attitude
Images: Pexels
