Contrasts in Beijing

Beijing has been a bit frustrating. It's hot, traffic-choked and polluted. Even in the best of circumstances, it's a difficult to get around.

But we've had some great experiences, too.  Fantastic trip to the Great Wall yesterday, despite the heat and smog. Wonderful fancy Beijing duck dinner with Yo's maternal relatives (candidate for best meal since leaving NY), and a great excursion to the Forbidden City.  

Saw a bit of the newer, younger, international Beijing last night at the Great Leap Forward Brewery. Was surprised, and heartened to see that the crowd at this very authentic brew pub (best burgers and beer, by far, since leaving NY) was at least half Beijingers. 

My favorite part was a bike ride I snuck in on our first day here to Tianmen Square. The best moment was seeing these old-timers fishing in the moat surrounding the Forbidden City - could have been the same 100 years ago.