Originally hailing from Sweden, the Völcseys are in their first year in the capital, having moved to China in August 2012. When mom Eva is not busy looking after Annie (age 11) and Emmie (9), who both attend the Swedish School Beijing, she is also the CEO of a home interiors business that she manages remotely from China. Her husband Zsolt is a project manager with the energy and transport company Alstom. We caught up with Eva to find out her family’s favorite ways to spend time in Beijing.
Favorite Snacks
A big bowl of sweet cherry tomatoes or some barbecue-flavored Doritos.
Favorite Places to Shop
Solana because it has everything! We also go to Scitech Plaza, Malls at Oriental Plaza for quality shopping, and Forever 21 for affordable, fun fashion. The girls love Yashow Market.
Favorite Neighborhoods
Sanlitun and Dongsi
Best Winter Activities
Skating on the frozen lakes at Shunyi’s Dragon Bay and skiing in Nanshan, which has great ski runs and is well worth the drive.
Rainy Day Activities
Reading a good book, watching a family movie, and cooking or baking together are always big hits.
Weekend Activities
If the air quality allows, we take long walks around the hutongs or parks like Beihai Park. We also catch up with family and friends on social media and we actually enjoy buying groceries together!
Favorite Family Restaurant
Ruslan, a Russian restaurant in Shunyi for the friendly atmosphere and beautiful location. Eudora Station in Lido is a superb place for a Sunday brunch because of its fantastic buffet.
Date Night
The Den in Sanlitun – nice drinks, good food, and casual atmosphere.
Best Way to Relax
Just sitting on the terrace with a nice cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Or being pampered in a cozy spa.
New Discoveries
Muxiyuan Fabric Market – an El Dorado for fabric lovers.
Photo by KEN
This article originally appeared on p96 of the beijingkids January 2014 issue. Check out the PDF version online at Issuu.com
Check out the PDF version online at Issuu.com