In the US we have Black Friday; in China, there’s 11.11. What started as Single’s Day, dreamed up by a group of college students who wanted to create the anti-Valentine’s Day, has turned into the biggest sale day in the WORLD. Just how big is it? Last year’s 11.11 sales event was estimated to have generated RMB 1.1 TRILLION. Queue-it puts it into perspective: Last year’s Alibaba gross merchandise volume was approximately USD 84.5 billion, which equaled more than six times that of Amazon’s Prime Day and about ten times that of all online retailers combined for Black Friday.

To make the most of your online shopping experience, check out these Taobao tips.

Local vendors in Beijing aren’t missing out on the big holiday either. Check out these 11.11 deals around town.

The Opposite House

They’ve got deals on restaurants and rooms in their mini-program: from RMB 11.11 hand-crafted gelato at Frasca, RMB 11.11 Union-Apello Spritz cocktails, RMB 11.11 American-style General Tso’s Chicken at Superfly, and their ever-so-popular blink box at RMB 388 – where you can win everything from cocktails at Union, night brunch (RMB 598), afternoon tea at Union (RMB 498) – to a night stay at The Opposite House valued at RMB 2,682.

The Regent Hotel

They’re offering room packages that are great for your next staycation. For RMB 1,111 you can get a one-night stay in their deluxe room. That’s roughly 40 percent off from their regular price. Or, for RMB 2,222, you can get a one-night stay in one of their executive suites, including all the perks.

We Love Wine

Wine Pimp Jacquelin has multiple 11.11 wine deals at the moment for all the winos to stock up before the holiday season. To join one of her groups where you can see daily deals on wines, add her on WeChat at JacquelinWinePimp or scan the QR code in the poster below.

Dark Feminine Energy With Inko

On the night of 11.11 Inko invites sisters to unlock their inner mysteries and embrace the untold fires within. Together you’ll go on a transformative journey with them as you set your feminine shadows free through dance and rituals. For more information, scan the QR code below.

InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun

InterContinental is selling dining vouchers to all its outlets. From RMB 11 beverage vouchers, RMB 111 dining vouchers that include their afternoon tea, tapas lunch sets, and tipsy hours weekend free flow, RMB 177 dining vouchers for Aperitivo set, lunch at Char, dim sum, and their famous Bee Brunch. Scan the QR code below to check out all their 11.11 deals.

Greenwave

A great water filter at home can make all the difference between having smooth skin and having itchy dry skin – especially during the winter months. Greenwave is selling their top-up card this 11.11. Valid until Oct 16 of 2024, you get RMB 3,300 free when you top up with RMB 3,000 during their 11.11 promotion. Or RMB 5,600 free when you top up RMB 5,000.

That’s Mandarin

This award-winning Mandarin School is offering discounts on their group classes, private classes, and 1-1 online courses for 11.11. If you’ve ever thought about learning Mandarin, this is a great time to get started.

Images: Courtesy of vendors, Pexels

It’s that time of year again – Single’s Day or 11.11, also known as the world’s largest single-day shopping spree, beating Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Chances are you’ve seen the 11.11 deals on JD, Taobao, and just about every shopping pltaform there is in China. To sum it up, basically, everyone’s having sales on all your favorite things. So whether it’s getting a head start on your holiday shopping or killing time in quarantine, right now is a great time to open up your e-wallet and shop.

Check out some amazing 11.11 deals from our favorite places in Beijing.

DIY Temaki Set From Hatsune

You know you’ve sat at a sushi restaurant and thought to yourself “I could totally make these too.” Well, here’s your chance to prove yourself right! For 11.11 Hatsune is offering a special DIY temaki set for RMB 228 so you can make your own at home. Each set comes with all the ingredients and step-by-step instructions you’ll need for 2 Negihama and Unagi handrolls, 2 Crispy Salmon Skin Handrolls, and 2 Spicy Tuna Handrolls. They’ve got limited sets available. You can either stop by the Hatsune nearest you to grab a set or scan the QR code below to have one delivered.

Top Up Card at The Opposite House & Amazing Deals on Food

For 11.11 The Opposite House is selling a top-up card that you can use at their outlets for RMB 6,800 with an additional RMB 2,242 for free. They’ve also got a limited-time exclusive staycation on 11.11 in their Studio 70 room with breakfast for two at Frasca for RMB 2,388 instead of their regular price of RMB 3,148.

Scan the QR code below to see all the deals available at The Opposite House.

Eat and Stay Deals at East Beijing Hotel

We love East Hotel! From their beautiful rooms to the most kid-friendly brunch in town. For 11.11 they’re offering a one-night stay in their Urban King Room for RMB 800 instead of the usual price of RMB 1,000.  Or, if you’re making it a truly kid-friendly staycation, their Monchhichi room is decorated with super cute bedding for kids and includes dinner and breakfast for two. For 11.11 they’re selling this super kid-friendly staycation for RMB 1,350 instead of the regular rate of RMB 2,000.

Then for the foodies, they’ve got dining passes like a pass for 30 days of coffee for RMB 488. If you do the math, that should cost you RMB 1,260 to get coffee at Domain for 30 days!

Scan the QR code below to see all the promotions at East Beijing.

Plan Ahead for the Holidays With InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun

You know you’re going to need a lot of great food for the holiday season. Why not plan ahead and save some money? For 11.11, InterContinental is selling their 2.5kg holiday ham along with 6 bottles of red, white, or sparkling wine for RMB 980 instead of the regular price of RMB 1,468. They’ve also got their fantastically juicy turkey that weighs in at between 5-6kgs along with 6 bottles of red, white, or sparkling wine for RMB 1,380 instead of RMB 1,876.

Scan the QR code below to purchase.

Get Your Nails Done at Fairmont Beijing

Fairmont’s world-renowned Willowstream Spa is known for providing unforgettable massages. Heck, I had a full body massage there almost ten years ago and I still remember how amazing it was! But, at their prices, they’re far from being your everyday massage place. For 11.11 you can get your nails done at the Fairmont Beijing for RMB 111 as compared to their regular price of RMB 598.

Scan the QR code below to purchase.

Images: Courtesy of vendors

It’s been almost three years since I first arrived in Beijing and I still don’t truly understand how the shopping here works.

Take their discounts for instance. The first time I went shopping in an outlet mall, I was so absolutely thrilled to see the sign that read 打9折 (dǎ 9 zhé), thinking it meant 90% off. Yes, I know you’re probably laughing at me right now, but where I come from, and from what I’ve experienced in other parts of the world, you put the sale price out there as 10% off, not that 90% of the price remains…

So that’s Tip 1: The smaller the number listed on the sale sign, the better!

In effect, 3折 means 70% off as compared to 5折 which is 50% off.

Even thinking about it now still confuses me. But you know what they say, practice makes perfect, so take this 11.11 sales season to practice the math!

Tip 2: Packages/Membership cards can be worth it, if you negotiate

I am a huge proponent of packages, or 套餐 (tàocān) as they call it here (literal translation: combo or set meal). Sometimes, they’ll offer a membership or VIP card where you place a lump sum, which will entitle your future purchases to be at a discounted rate They call this 充卡 (chōng kǎ) or 会员卡 (huìyuán kǎ).

I know many expats, such as fellow editor Mina Yan, steer clear of these as it seems too much of a complication and commitment, but a little understanding and research here will save you a tidy sum!

Take manicures, for instance. Most of us get one done every month or even bi-weekly. The average price of a gel manicure at Alice Beauty is RMB 120, but if you top up a card with RMB 3,000 each manicure is at 85折. Quick pop quiz: How much discount is that? Answer: It’s 15% off, so each manicure is only RMB 102! RMB 18 off each month will add up to over RMB 200 in a year, and that’s just manicures. Double that for pedicures and facials and you’ll be saving up to RMB 1,000!

Two follow-up tips regarding packages/membership cards:

2a. Never buy a package before you’ve tried a place at least three times – the first and second time might be a fluke, but third time’s the charm. If a place hasn’t let you down after three visits, you’ll likely be returning there more often, so an investment to stretch your dollar is worth considering.

2b. Only buy a package/card at reputable chains that have been around for a while and, ideally, come recommended by trusted friends. At the very least, look up the place on Dianping to make sure they are listed, licensed and with good reviews.

My favorite example of membership cards that are worth your money are for restaurants you frequent. In my family’s case, we purchased a membership card for RMB 1,000 at Pizza Marzano and get RMB 50 off with every RMB 200 spent at the restaurant – that’s 25% off! Just remember to tell them you’re a member before you foot the bill!

Tip 3: Wait a while. The deal will still be there.

Once you start listening to their sales pitch, it’s likely to sound more and more like a good deal. But any good salesperson will tell you to never to accept the first offer. And that still rings true here. No matter how much they try to convince you that you should make the purchase that very day, saying that they can’t guarantee the same price next time, it’s highly improbable that that is the case. Every time I’ve stood my ground and asked to go home to check the budget with my husband, the price has been the same, or even better, when I returned.

I don’t waste my time even considering a package for something I don’t use/need, no matter how much of a deal it is, because 90% off something you don’t use is still 10% you could use on something you actually want. So firmly say you’re not interested, or if you are, then ask to sleep it over and come back to them. Even better, work out how much you’re willing to pay and then go to them with an offer. More likely than not, they’ll take it.

I made it clear to my hair stylist that I wasn’t going to spend more than RMB 500 on my hair every month, so he let me get a card for RMB 3000 that he promised will last at least six months, and gives me 50% off all hair-related services! It would have lasted almost eight months had I not chosen to dye my hair again…

What are you tips for smarter shopping here in the capital? Share them with us in the comments below!

KEEP READING: Is NUO’s Brunch Worth the Price?

Images: Pexels

11.11 is just 2 days away, but nationwide promotions and sales have been underway since the start of the month. In case you don’t know, this is basically China’s equivalent of Black Friday and the biggest shopping event of the year. I know folks who have been saving up since the last shopping event in June (6.18) so that they can splurge on 11.11 – one of my friends bought an entire year’s worth of coffee beans during this time – as well as business owners who have spent weeks preparing for the event.

Now, we’re not advocating that you go crazy and empty your WeChat or Alipay wallet on a massive shopping spree, but if you do have a list of items that you’ll have to get sooner or later – not to mention any holiday gifts – this is certainly the time to do it. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for family-friendly 11.11 promotions covering a range of categories.

Clothes

Wobaby Basics infant and children’s clothes are designed for what really matters: your baby, the environment, and your community. They offer a thoughtfully-made collection of children’s clothing from 0-8 years old, created with GOTS certified organic cotton and produced with a commitment to quality and fair trade. For 11/11, there will be a storewide sale starting from 11 percent off, while clearance items are up to 60% off. Scan the QR code below to shop!

We previously introduced the eco-friendly brand Nudepeche in our sustainability series, but in sum, this Shanghai-based business spins recycled plastic bottles into comfortable yet sturdy sportswear. At the moment, the catalog comprises five pieces – Hardcore Leggings, Essential Shorts, Everyday Leggings, Everyday Top, and Essential Bra – in four wholesome colors. This 11.11, they will offer up to 50% off all their items on either their Taobao store or through the BOOMI platform. Both QR codes can be found in the poster below.

Desserts

11.11 isn’t all about clothes or electronics. When it comes to homebaked goodies, Beijing baker Mary Sweets is known for using no artificial flavors or preservatives in her treats, which range from brownies to cakes to cinnamon rolls. She even offers gluten-free and keto options for those on specific diets. This 11.11, she’s giving away her Triple Chocolate Chunks cookies when you spend a total of RMB 300. Scan the QR code below to check out her full menu!

Jewelry

Beijing-based brand Chariots Handmaydz is an African-themed jewelry-making organization that offers earrings, necklaces, bracelets, winter couch blankets, earmuffs, scarfs, and more. Chariots jewelry highlights the beauty of Africa through its designs, which are created with African fabric, African stones, and African beads. They are offering 20% discounts on all their products from Nov 9 to 13. What’s more, their proceeds go towards empowering women and children in Africa through skills-based and education programs. Search WeChat ID: TinaChariots, or visit their website www.chariotslionbay.org, Instagram: ChariotsHandmaydz84, and Facebook ChariotsHandmaydz.

Nutrition

You might already be familiar with Athletic Greens (AG) because this international brand has been gaining worldwide popularity thanks to its superfood formula that promises more than 75 vitamins and minerals in a single scoopful of green powder. Luckily for us, they have a shop in Hong Kong that will ship to Beijing! For 11.11, they are offering a slew of promotions, including an RMB 90 discount on a one-month AG purchase, a vial of vitamin D3 + K2 giveaway with a 2-month purchase, or a bottle of omega 3 vitamins + 5 day AG travel pack with a 6-month subscription. Look up Athletic Greens to find their mini-program on WeChat, or shop their products on TMall.

Skincare

Bebebalm is the brainchild of Daddy Doctor Mike and Mommy Carol who is into traditional remedies. Together, they combined their knowledge in Science + Nature to create effective yet gentle plant-based solutions for skin problems such as eczema and insect bites. This 11.11, they have 10% off single items in their store and on TaoBao, or check out their bundle deals for greater discounts. QR code below!

For us parents, The Green Room, dedicated to natural, often organic skincare that includes essential oils for facial, hair, beard, and body care, will be offering a 15% storewide discount on all products in their WeiDian throughout Nov 11. Customers rave about their Miracle 5 & 7 face serums, which is on many a winter skincare shopping list. Scan the QR code below to enter the shop.

Toiletries

Natural home care brand Soapnut Republic provides safe, non-toxic, allergen free, biodegradable products for cleaning your house and also yourself! My child personally uses their PureTonique range of bath products which are mild but effective, and going on 35% discount this sale event! I also love that they sell laundry, dish and floor detergents in bulk bottles so it’s more eco-friendly. They also have some amazing candles. They’re offering 20% off their home care range this 11.11 so it’s a great time to check them out if you’ve been looking for baby-safe cleaning products.

Remember, shop less, buy better!

KEEP READING: Sustainability Sunday: Four Local Fashion Brands That Are Better for the Planet

Images: Courtesy of the vendors, Pexels

Veterans of Singles’ Day (aka 11.11) online shopping know that there are a few cardinal rules you must follow to the letter for success. For starters, Taobao is not the only online shopping app. It might be a little more convenient to use, but so is Jingdong. Second, if you haven’t already started your deal shopping at least two weeks before the actual day of the sale, you have already failed! Thirdly and most importantly, you must have your wishlist ready. Do not veer away from it. Sticking to it will ensure you don’t get side-tracked and settle for other spur-of-the-moment purchases you might come to regret later.

But there is one ultimate tenet known to the true bargain hunters in Beijing. Even if you haven’t planned your purchases in advance of the big sale, do not be fazed: there are tons of amazing deals still to be snagged. All you have to know is where to look. Here are some of the deals you might not have thought you wanted, but you might actually find you need.

Time To Use a Filter!

It’s no secret that Beijing’s water is rather hard and harsh on the skin. We have all experienced excessively shedding hair, dry skin, and itchiness. Then there is the small matter of it being winter in Beijing, which means one thing: dry, polluted air. All of the above makes Greenwave’s 11.11 promotion on water filters and air purifiers an absolute necessity. Offering a wide range of products with great discounts to boot, you might want to add “get a filter” to your 11.11 to-do list.

As Chill as A Panda Nibbling on Bamboo!

11.11 deals are all well and good, but unless you know how to truly maneuver how things are structured, then you might get very little out of it if, anything at all. Trying to use coupons available on vendors’ pages is a particular annoyance, and virtually impossible if you don’t read as much Chinese since each coupon comes with its own set of redeeming instructions. PandaBoo SuperMall offers you a chance to enjoy 11.11 hassle and coupon free. Ending on Thursday, November 12 at 9am, Pandaboo will immediately show you which items are discounted and how much you stand to save. Offering a wide range of items from beauty, jewelry, and even pet supplies, Pandaboo is certainly worth a peek.

Veggie For Your Thoughts?

Sometimes it feels like Beijing is a city built on animal products! It says a whole lot that the most well-known dish from Beijing is Peking duck. All of which makes it that much more difficult for those who wish to go vegan to do so smoothly. That’s why Vegans of Beijing’s Virtual Evening Market is a much-needed resource for Beijing’s vegans. Yet another must-add to the to-do list for 11.11.

Photos: Unsplash, courtesy of organizers, 

Singles Day is incoming on November 11 and the signs are everywhere. You can’t go far on the streets or on your phone without being hit with ways to spend spend spend!

Singles’ Day is a name with an interesting cross-cultural communication twist for expats new to Beijing. But it is exciting for those that love a deal, and quickly make sense of its connection to China’s biggest online shopping festival. This is just how big it is: in 2018’s Singles Day sales Alibaba reached $30.8 billion in one day, exceeding all sales records to date.

But not everyone wants to spend time buying things on sale for themselves or others as a sign of appreciation. According to Dr. Gary Chapman, whether you’re in Beijing, Accra or Paris, there are five universal ways to translate love. After decades of counseling married couples, Dr. Chapman saw a pattern that is now used to improve millions of relationships through love language fluency. How fluent are you? Take a look at the five languages here and find out:

The Five Love Languages

1: Words of Affirmation – expressing love with words. Think heartfelt compliments that are personal – “I really love that new winter coat you’re wearing”. This can also have an adverse effect, as it means you are extra-sensitive to negative personal comments too.

2: Acts of Service – this is all about what you do and not what you say. Again, taking the time to express love with a thoughtful action like doing the washing up because you know it would be really appreciated not because you feel obligated.

A box of French chocolates bought for me as a surprise gift from my roommate – I love chocolate!

3: Receiving Gifts – this is not about buying the most expensive item on your favorite Double 11 eCommerce platform. Like the other two languages, this is about taking the time to make a personal gesture and buy a considerate gift that will make your friend, mother, or partner feel really appreciated.

4: Quality Time – In a highly distracted world of social media and interconnected technology devices, this love language may be the hardest. It requires an expression of undivided attention where you are the best listener in Beijing, and can involve activities like a long hike on the Great Wall.

5: Physical Touch – Reaching out for a warm hugging embrace or extending a hand to be held are examples of sincere physical touches that make people who are fond of this love language feel valued. In Beijing this can mean different things, as hugs are not very Chinese and holding hands with friends is very common, so it’s important to have that personal connection to understand exactly what suits the person in question.

I believe that I encompass a bit of all five languages depending on the context of the relationship. What is definitely key between all five choices is having an intimate knowledge of the person you have a relationship with.

Photos: Miatta Momoh, unsplash
Sources: www.5lovelanguages.com/5-love-languages/, https://cratedwithlove.com/blog/five-love-languages-and-what-they-mean/, www.forbes.com/sites/niallmccarthy/2018/11/12/singles-day-sets-another-sales-record-infographic/#28d7fade815a