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Jiayi and Julie revisit Beijing after 17 years, comparing the city with their memories from 2006. They walk around Dongjiaominxiang and Qiamen, see former embassy buildings along a colonial-era street, browse shops and try foods from different parts of China. The visit also includes residential hutongs, a decorated train station and personal encounters with locals, children and pets. Their return brings old memories together with new sights and daily life in the capital.
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More about the current video:(Published on 2024-07-13)
The trip and its setting
This vlog documents Jiayi & Julie In China's return trip to Beijing after a 17-year absence. The video begins with their arrival, noting the efficient high-speed rail and a taxi ride to their hotel in the Hong area. They describe their hotel as having a cool exterior and plants, situated conveniently near the Drum Tower. Their exploration takes them to Dongjiaominxiang and Qiamen, areas described as busy yet unique, with individually owned shops offering a distinct experience compared to typical tourist areas. They pass by a beautiful cathedral and explore the historical colonial street, highlighting the impact of the Opium Wars and the subsequent establishment of foreign embassies and military bases. The trip includes the architecture of former embassies, including those of Belgium and France. Jiayi & Julie also share their experience in a tourist area with souvenir shops, commenting on the size and age of the gates. They highlight the interesting mix of people they encounter, noting a change in the typical demographics of couples they see on the street. They then explore the unique food scene of Beijing, mentioning various dishes and ingredients from different regions of China. The video emphasizes the cozy atmosphere despite the crowds.
Places, food, and local encounters
They visit shops selling traditional clothing and accessories, noting the high quality and unique styles. The vlog features various sights, including statues and a particular type of men's suit that Julie admires. They discuss the prices of goods and the local market dynamics. An encounter with military personnel is recounted, along with observations on how locals perceive them as tourists. The video also shows Jiayi & Julie's interactions with children and their pets, highlighting the positive interactions they experience. They visit a Hutong area where people live and have small businesses. The vlog also includes footage of a beautifully decorated train station, representing the 56 ethnic groups of China. The video concludes with a reflection on Jiayi's memories of Beijing from 2006, contrasting the past with the present. They highlight how tall people are in Beijing and share a funny anecdote about being surrounded by tall men. A chance encounter with a group of foreigners escorted by security services is also included, adding an unexpected element to their journey. The overall tone is conversational and engaging, filled with personal anecdotes and observations that give viewers a glimpse into Jiayi & Julie's authentic experience.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What was your favorite part of the trip?
- A: Jiayi most enjoyed exploring the hutongs and seeing how residents live and work in the traditional alleyways. The small businesses and homes made the area feel different from the streets and historic sites they had visited elsewhere.
- Q: What was the food like?
- A: They tried a range of dishes and ingredients from different regions of China, and especially liked the juicy baozi they found. The food stops were part of their walk through the busy streets and shops.
- Q: What surprised you most about Beijing?
- A: Julie was struck by how tall people seemed in Beijing and did not expect to see so many large dogs. The couple also noticed locals’ interactions with them as visitors during the return trip.
