Welcome to Beijing, the center, the heart and soul of China. As the country's capital, Beijing is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends its ancient heritage with modern innovation. This city, rich in history and culture, stands as a testament to China's storied past and bright future. Whether you're walking through its historic alleys or marveling at its futuristic skyline, Beijing offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Population: Approximately 21.5 million in 2018.
Economy: Capital city of China and ranks the tenth largest metropolitan economies in the world.
Landmarks: Famous for The Great Wall of China, The Forbidden City, and Beijing Olympic Park.
China
Beijing's history stretches back over three millennia, making it one of the world's oldest cities. It served as the capital of various dynasties, notably the Ming and Qing, and was essential in developing Chinese culture. Beijing's cultural diversity is woven with threads of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. These philosophies have deeply influenced the city's art, architecture, and way of life. Discover the ancient wisdom and traditions that continue to thrive in Beijing's temples, gardens, and daily practices.
The city is a major political center and a hub for education and research, making public administration, scientific research and academic areas a significant source of employment. The service industry is another major employer, driven by tourism, hospitality, retail, and finance. With Beijing's rich cultural heritage and numerous attractions, many locals work in roles related to tourism, such as tour guides, hotel staff, and restaurant workers. Locals are often eager to share their rich cultural heritage with visitors, whether through casual conversations, traditional tea ceremonies, or guided tours of historical sites. This openness and willingness to help make navigating the city and experiencing its many attractions a pleasant and enriching experience.
Modern Beijing - © Christian Lue
Beijing is a city steeped in history, culture, and modernity, offering a wealth of attractions that cater to diverse interests. These top attractions below offer a glimpse into Beijing's past, present, and future, showcasing its cultural heritage, architectural wonders, and modern achievements.
The Great Wall of China - © Hongbin
Beijing's food scene is a delicious combination of tastes that represents the city's diverse ethnic background. Here are some must-try dishes that encapsulate the essence of Beijing cuisine:
A Noodle Vendor in Beijing - © zhang kaiyv
Beijing's calendar is rich with vibrant festivals and celebrations that offer insights into its cultural tapestry. These festivals offer a glimpse into Beijing's cultural heritage, providing opportunities to participate in traditional rituals and festivities alongside locals.
Celebrated with great fervor, Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) marks the beginning of the lunar new year. Enjoy colorful dragon dances, fireworks, and traditional meals with family and friends.
Also known as the Moon Festival, this celebration revolves around family reunions and the consumption of mooncakes. These sweet pastries symbolize unity and togetherness under the full moon.
Held annually to commemorate the ancient poet Qu Yuan, this festival features dragon boat races on Beijing's lakes and rivers. Enjoy watching the colorful boats and savoring zongzi, pyramid-shaped rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves.
Dedicated to classical music, this festival features performances by renowned orchestras, conductors, and soloists. It takes place at various venues across the city, including the iconic National Centre for the Performing Arts.
Celebration of Chinese New Year - © Kaitlyn C
From cultural immersions to modern marvels, Beijing offers a wealth of activities that promise to captivate and inspire travelers from around the globe.
Tourists visit the Temple of Heaven in Beijing - © Kevin Engelke
Shopping in Beijing not only allows you to find unique souvenirs and gifts but also offers insight into Chinese culture and craftsmanship. Beijing's diverse shopping experiences cater to every interest and budget, ensuring a memorable shopping adventure in the heart of China's capital city.
Beijing's market- © zhang kaiyv
Winter in the Forbidden City - © Wang xiaoqi
Respecting Beijing's cultural customs enhances your interaction with locals and enriches your travel experience
Spring Festival celebration in Beijing - © Gigi Zhang
Travelers in Beijing have a choice of transit alternatives to help them explore the city smoothly. The subway system is extensive, with signage in Chinese and English, covering major tourist spots, business districts, and residential areas. While affordable, buses can be crowded during peak times so taxis are more dependable means of transportation. Additionally, rideshare services offer competitive rates and convenience similar to taxis, enhancing transportation choices for exploring Beijing's diverse neighborhoods and attractions.
In Beijing, ATMs are widely accessible, accepting major international credit and debit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and UnionPay, with instructions available in both English and Chinese. Currency exchange services are readily available at airports, major hotels, and various banks throughout the city. Banking services in Beijing typically operate Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 5 PM, with some branches in commercial areas possibly open on weekends for added convenience.
In Beijing, travelers have a diverse range of accommodation options to choose from. Luxury hotels, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly hostels cater to different preferences and budgets. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for hostels and guesthouses scattered across the city. For longer stays or families, serviced apartments in Beijing offer the comforts of home with amenities such as kitchens, living areas, and laundry services, combined with the convenience of hotel-like services.
Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s southeastern corner, Yala National Park is where wild nature meets deep tradition. Known worldwide for its leopard population, the park is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Beyond wildlife, Yala opens doors to a cultural landscape dotted with ancient temples, Buddhist ruins, and coastal villages. For travelers seeking more than just a safari, Yala offers a chance to explore eco-tourism, local communities, and sacred heritage sites.
Population: The Yala National Park area doesn’t have a human population.
Economy: The economy around Yala National Park thrives on a blend of eco-tourism, agriculture, and local services. Safari tours, eco-lodges, and cultural experiences drive steady income for nearby towns like Tissamaharama and Kataragama, supporting thousands of families.
Landmarks: Famous for Block I of Yala and wildlife encounters, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and exotic bird species.
Nestled on Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, Galle is a vibrant city where history meets the sea. Its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and serene beaches make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle captivates visitors with its Dutch Fort, bustling markets, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring the ramparts at sunset or savoring fresh seafood by the shore, Galle promises an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Population: Approximately 113,000 in 2023.
Economy: Galle’s economy thrives on tourism, trade, and fisheries. The city’s historic fort, colonial architecture, and coastal charm draw thousands of international visitors each year, making tourism its main economic driver. Fishing remains vital for local livelihoods, supplying fresh seafood across the region.
Landmarks: Famous for the Galle Fort, Dutch Reformed Church & Maritime Museum, and Unawatuna Beach.
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Bentota is a tropical paradise that blends golden beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Famous for its calm waters, luxury resorts, and scenic river estuary, Bentota has become a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic experiences. From serene beach walks at sunrise to adrenaline-pumping water sports, this coastal town offers a perfect balance of leisure and exploration. With its proximity to Colombo and Galle, Bentota is easy to reach, making it an ideal stop for both short escapes and extended holidays.
Population: Approximately 37,000 in 2023.
Economy: Bentota’s economy thrives mainly on tourism, which drives local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and wellness retreats. The town also benefits from fishing, coconut cultivation, and handicrafts like wood carving and batik textiles. Many residents rely on the growing demand for water sports and Ayurvedic treatments, making tourism the backbone of both income and employment in the area.
Landmarks: Famous for Bentota Beach, Bentota River Safari, and Kande Vihara Temple.
Mirissa is a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. Known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, it has become a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the island. Many come for whale watching, surfing, and sunset views at Coconut Tree Hill, but Mirissa offers much more than postcard beauty. The fishing boats you see anchored by the bay carry generations of stories. Local traditions, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back rhythm of life shape every visitor’s experience.
Population: Approximately 4,700 in 2023.
Economy: Mirissa’s economy is largely shaped by its coastal location. Fishing has long been the backbone of local livelihoods, with generations relying on the Indian Ocean for income. In recent decades, tourism has become the main driver of growth, thanks to whale watching, surfing, and beachside hospitality.
Landmarks: Famous for Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, and Parrot Rock Bridge.
Tucked away in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is often called “Little England”. With its rolling tea plantations, cool misty mornings, and colonial charm, this mountain town feels like a step into another world. Travelers come here to breathe fresh air, walk through flower gardens, sip the finest Ceylon Tea, and enjoy a pace of life far from the island’s busy cities. Whether you’re drawn by scenic landscapes, heritage architecture, or the warmth of its people, Nuwara Eliya is a destination that blends nature, culture, and history in perfect harmony.
Population: Approximately 781,000 in 2023.
Economy: Nuwara Eliya’s economy thrives mainly on tea production, as it sits in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, famous worldwide for Ceylon Tea. The city also benefits from a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its colonial charm, cool climate, and scenic landscapes.
Landmarks: Famous for Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Victoria Park.
Nestled on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Sukau is a destination where wildlife, culture, and conservation come together. Known as one of Asia’s top spots for river safaris and eco-tourism, this quiet village offers a front-row seat to encounters with Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and exotic birdlife.
Population: Approximately 1,400 in 2019.
Economy: Sukau’s economy is shaped by its riverine location and natural resources. Traditionally, the Orang Sungai community relied on fishing, small-scale farming, and forest gathering for their livelihood. Today, the village has shifted toward eco-tourism, with river cruises, jungle trekking, and homestays providing income.
Landmarks: Famous for the Kinabatangan River cruises, Gomantong Caves, and Ox-bow lakes and wetlands.