At the center Beijing are two of its most famous attractions: The Forbidden City and Tianamen Square. They’re a little hard to make out for all the people, though.
Most seemed to be part of huge package tour groups, led by guides with little flags. We were on our own, making us easy targets for the many independent “tour guides” roaming about. We said no to several of them, before finally agreeing to one man who seemed a little less predatory.
Mr Li led us on what turned out to be an exhausting tour of the sprawling complex, an endless procession of gardens, dragons, elaborate pagodas & more symbolism than you can shake a stick at.
Our half-day tour involved lots of walking, a few photo ops, at least 3 different entrance fees and 2 taxi rides. I was glad to have a guide to lead us through it, and the price was certainly right – less than $15 US.
However, our tour didn’t end where it began – Mr. Li left us in Behai Park with only a vague idea where we were or how to get back.
We decided to rest for awhile before trying to find our way out – it was a lovely day, after all.
That’s when we had one of those chance encounters that really makes the difference in a trip like this.
to be continued…
{ 1 comment }
Great photos! $15 dollars for a half day tour that’s really good I am paying for a half day tour in Antalya $50 dollars(I know I can probably see it on my own and only pay 1/3 of the price but sometime I talk these tours because I am too lazy to figure it out on my own and for the company. Looking forward to the rest of your story.
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