Last year I was fearless traveling around China even when covid tests were needed every time I chose to leave Guangzhou. Cases were only in the North and I spent the summer touring the south and west.
This time feels different and I had to remind myself I had traveled with uncertainty and was careful about what I did and where I went. Therefore I would be okay. We were encouraged not to leave but being in my apartment (with construction upstairs was driving me nuts). At the last minute I decided to go to Beijing. There is only a handful of places on my list to visit and that is one. Chinese schools are still in session and it is less crowded now. Perfect timing.
A local clinic I use offered 24 hour turnaround for covid test results. This is important because you cannot fly or check into a hotel unless you have a test less than 48 hours old. To be clear, last year foreigners needed tests to go anywhere but they could be within 7 days. Because of the outbreak in Guangzhou, everyone there needs to meet the 48 hour mandate. That made me feel good as we felt singled out last year. Now you say where you are from and people are taken aback. The health code though shows all your results.
The Beijing Nuo Hotel Forbidden city was one that I saw in an advertisement and it looked lovely. Despite the price, I decided to book my stay. It is gorgeous and 100 years of history…
The drawing room is the bar and where I had a late dinner after taking time to swim and sit in a hot tub. 1920’s swing music, beautiful accommodations, and wonderful service… The asparagus risotto was fabulous. I wondered if it was socially acceptable to lick the bowl (kidding of course, but it did cross my mind).
Next, running around forbidden city then touring inside.