October holiday

Northerners (beifangren, 北方人), especially Beijing folk, love comparing - and more often contrasting - themselves with (or against) their Southern compatriots. Most of this is done in the spirit of snarkiness, though at times it borders on outright hostility (witness my ex-colleague of Cantonese descent who was harangued by a particularly foulmouthed cab driver for his Guangdong roots) - but even the most hardcore of beifangren will admit that those Southerners, particularly those along the coast, sure know how to live the good life.

Filled with lush, green hills, rivers and thousands of small islands dotting its coastline, Zhejiang sits right smack in the heart of China's booming southeastern seaboard. We visited last week during the October 1st holiday to sample some of its southern charms and despite having to fight the holiday crowds (as expected), we enjoyed ourselves nevertheless. Among the highlights:

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Is your family planning to take it easy and relax in Beijing over October holiday? The last few weeks have shown us varied weather – some days with perfect temps and blue skies, and others with less desirable air quality. It might be a great time to get out and about. Instead of braving the crowds at some of the more predictable tourist sights, create your own schedule to explore what interests your family via the Beijing subway system.

Our “new” Shunyi Line 15 has been open since December 30. Still, how many of you have actually tried it out? I admit to only using it once or twice since that maiden voyage, but it’s not for lack of interest. Usually there just isn’t enough time to make a game plan and go for it. To get you started, here are some suggestions.

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