Beijing is relatively safe compared to many big European or American cities. However, pickpockets are quite a big issue and shouldn’t be underestimated. Many of the people I have met since coming to Beijing have told me stories of how they got robbed of their phones or wallets without even realizing it. A few months ago, I myself was robbed of my beloved iPhone.

These stories are all similar. In my case, I was walking in Sanlitun Village with some friends around dinner time. I had one of those bags without a zip, so it was slightly open; when I looked around for my phone, I realized it was not in my bag anymore. Maybe I bumped into the thief, but didn’t notice.

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Eighteen-year-old Niels Velema is Dutch but was born in Brussels. His mother is from the Netherlands and his father is French from Martinique. Velema is currently taking his last exams at The British School of Beijing (BSB) in Shunyi.

At the end of April, Velema was the only foreigner to join a three-day motocross race held in Yunnan. He placed third on the first day and got to share the podium with professional Chinese racers. Having always been interested in high-speed sports, Velema started getting involved with motocross just a few years ago. Now sponsored by Beijing Off-Road Club, he is pursuing his dream of becoming a motocross champion. Recently, beijingkids spoke to Velema about his plans. 

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Rising temperatures means it is time to declare barbecue season officially open. It is a welcome change from the biting cold of the long Beijing winter. Here in Shunyi, we are lucky to have enough space to set up a grill and enjoy some homemade barbecue in the evening breeze. Nearly every family has their favorite marinade, the go-to recipe that has everybody smiling the moment the scent starts to waft in the air.

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It’s already halfway through May and we know you’re swamped with birthdays and going-away parties, but this month is packed with unique talks, fairs, and events that are well worth checking out. Here’s a look at what’s still coming up:

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It's time to play ball again, as Major League Baseball returns to Beijing with the 2013 MLB Road Show, Saturday, June 1 from 1-6pm in Solana's central plaza. Baseball fans from the U.S., Canada, China and elsewhere can wear their favorite team's jersey, and take a few swings in the inflatable cages. MLB Development Center coaches will be on hand to teach and improve both swinging and throwing.

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Following the emergence of online rumors on May 9 that Zhang Yimou fathered seven children in his two marriages and two relationships, state media confirmed that the authorities have started investigating the famous director. 

According to People’s Daily,Zhang Yimou may have to face a fine of RMB 160 million (USD 26 million) for breaking China’s one-child policy. The family planning policy states that all urban families must have no more than a child, with only a few exceptions. Whoever breaks the law must pay a “social compensation fee” based on their annual income.

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