Back of the Net: Our Tips for Throwing a Successful World Cup Party

Robynne Tindall, Contributing Editor | Jun 13, 2014 1:00 pm | Add a comment | 1424 reads

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few months, you may have noticed people getting excited about a little thing called the World Cup. Well, today is the big day and the time difference between Beijing and Brazil means the games fall at midnight, 3am or 6am, so if the thought of camping out all night at a bar for one of our list of World Cup parties doesn't appeal to you, why not host your own? We show you how, with a little help from Taobao and some of Beijing's best delivery services.

Decor
It might be because I'm British, but for me, a party isn't a party without bunting. As ever, Taobao is your most reliable bet (see here and here) but you may also be able to pick some up from the Tianyi or Laitai Markets.

How about getting dressed up? Don't bother shelling out RMB 999 on an official World Cup shirt from Nike; pick one up for RMB 55 on Taobao instead. We can't vouch for the quality however ...

Drinks
Football and beer go together like, well, football and beer, so be sure to fill up your fridge with frosty Yanjings from the local xiaomaibu. Alternatively, you'll need something to toast your team with when they win (or drown your sorrows when they lose). Save precious match-viewing time by ordering online from Cheers (via Taobao, of course as well as in-shop), who are offering 20 percent discount on all sparkling wines for the months of June, July and August. Try the dry Schwansee, a sparkling wine from Germany, a steal at RMB 76 after discount.

Food
Here are our picks for a global feast (without traveling further than the entrance to your apartment):