2017 Year in Review: Best Beijing Travel Bits

What a year for traveling! We've rounded up the best destinations in China and international destinations so everyone's needs are intact. However, as sworn Beijing lovers, after a long flight or days of train, we say: who needs abroad when there is Beijing! Make the last days of 2017 count by seeing local spots that have been overlooked in favor of the blinding lights of far-far-away destinations.

Not Just for Tourists: How to Make the Most of Beijing's Scenic Spots
We said: "Beijing’s scenic spots are often dismissed as touristy by those of us who have called this city home for longer than, say, six months. This summer, however, you may want to pay them another visit bearing these alternative activities in mind." Or in this case, winter. Just get the appropriate attire for your whole body, so the walk won't be cut short by a need to thaw your toes in the closest Starbucks. 

A World Close but Unknown: One Man’s Mission to Explore Xicheng’s Sights in Two Days
We said: "A cursory visit to Xicheng will reveal a number of superficial differences between Beijing’s other central districts; the main arteries that carve the area into blocks tend to be wider, and the hutongs that wind between aren’t nearly as rickety and worn as those found within the confines of the Second Ring Road. Restaurants and shops also appear more sparsely distributed, giving the locale a quieter if not slightly barren feel." Being deposited in Xicheng might give you the "fish out of the water" feeling. Familiar but not so much? Give it another try with this itinerary printed out.

Urbex in Beijing: Exploring the City’s Decaying Sights
We said: "It appears that the thrill that comes from discovering something once lost is universal, and the rapid growth and turnover of real estate make Beijing an urban explorer’s paradise – but there is finesse to making the most of the city’s nooks and crannies.".  Make sure you read safety instructions before heading out to explore the crumbling parts of Beijing and bring your own flashlight (and maybe some snacks).

Hitting the Wall: Hikes to Try Once You’ve Exhausted Mutianyu and Badaling
We said: "While most of us who live in Beijing are aware that we are extremely lucky to have such close access to a landmark like the Great Wall, there’s no doubt that the shine starts to dull once you’ve visited the busy tourist sections for the nth time. The best way to refresh your passion for the wall is to get off the beaten path and visit one of the so-called “wild,” unrestored sections." By heeding this advice the Great Wall will never get old in your eyes, because you won't likely ever be able to explore all the possible paths.

Urban Hiking: Celebrate National Day With Historical Rambles Through Beijing’s Concrete Jungle
We said: "Beijing is not known for being especially pedestrian-friendly, but that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of historical strolls on which to stretch your legs and broaden your knowledge of our fair city. These three long urban hikes will get you off your Mobike and out of your Didi to take a fresh look at Beijing from the ground level." From a few hours to daylong walks, befriend Beijing as a walking buddy.

Looking to read more on our top 2017 food, nightlife, and news? Click here.

More by this author here.

Images: The Beijinger, Burbex, Tom Arnstein, Wikimedia