Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Be prepared for icy conditions on the Great Wall, especially during winter. Wear appropriate footwear and take your time. (2:15)
- Tip 2Book tickets for Tiananmen Square at least one day in advance to avoid queues. Your hotel staff might be able to assist. (8:53)
- Tip 3Consider bringing a portable translation device, especially if you are traveling to areas with limited English menus. A VPN may not always be reliable in China. (12:02)
- Tip 4Purchase Forbidden City tickets online at least one day before your visit. The tickets are linked to your passport. (17:39)
- Tip 5Avoid bringing drones to the Forbidden City; you may need to leave it with security. (17:57)
Ken Abroad's first day in Beijing is a whirlwind tour of iconic landmarks and delicious food. From conquering the Great Wall in snowy conditions to navigating the bustling Tiananmen Square (filming restrictions prevented its inclusion in the video) and indulging in authentic Peking duck, Ken's journey is filled with unexpected encounters and cultural discoveries. He shares his experience with the unique challenges and rewards of exploring such famous sites, offering a glimpse into the vibrant heart of China's capital.
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This vlog follows Ken Abroad's exciting first day in Beijing, China. He begins his adventure at the Great Wall, braving chilly weather and icy conditions to capture breathtaking views. The journey up is challenging, but the stunning scenery and unexpected encounters with fellow travelers from Lebanon, Russia, and Dubai make it worthwhile. He emphasizes the unique experience of visiting the Great Wall on a less crowded, snowy day, highlighting the beauty even amidst less-than-ideal weather.
Next, Ken heads to Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square. While he can't share footage due to filming restrictions, he describes the experience and his successful acquisition of a second photo for his collection. He notes the impressive scale and organization of the square, contrasting it with the bustling energy of a city of over 20 million people.
The final stop is the Forbidden City, where Ken shares his awe at the historical significance and architectural grandeur of the site. He documents the process of obtaining tickets in advance and notes the need to leave his drone with security. The Forbidden City's immense size and rich details provide a fitting end to his eventful day, allowing him to capture his third and final picture.
Throughout the vlog, Ken shares personal insights into his experiences, including a delicious (though expensive) Peking duck meal at a renowned restaurant. He also showcases his TimeKettle T1 mini translator device, highlighting its usefulness for navigating language barriers during his travels in China. His narrative is engaging and conversational, filled with vivid descriptions and authentic interactions with locals, providing viewers with a rich and immersive experience of his journey through Beijing. The video concludes with Ken's reflection on his first day in Beijing, highlighting the city's cleanliness, organization, and the unique blend of ancient history and modern life.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What was the weather like at the Great Wall?
- A: It was about -3Β°C, snowy, and very slippery!
- Q: How much did the Peking duck meal cost?
- A: It was 273 yuan, which I thought was quite pricey!
- Q: What was the most memorable part of visiting the Forbidden City?
- A: Just being there, seeing those buildings in person, and realizing how it must have felt for people centuries ago. It was a great moment!