Weekend Trips
Sunny Shanhaiguan
The Travelers
Pat Sommer and her daughter Ellie (8), and Julie Johnson with her daughter Kaylen (10).
The Cost
The total cost of the three-day trip was roughly RMB 1,300. Roundtrip train tickets set them back RMB 290, a double room at their hotel was RMB 310 per night; meals, tickets and taxis made up the rest of the costs.
The Plan
The Sommers and Johnsons packed their bags for a last-minute weekend getaway to Shanhaiguan. There was a lot on the itinerary: exploring the Old City, visiting the Jiaoshan section of the Great Wall, swimming at the beach, visiting the Great Wall museum, and more.
The Accommodation
Escape to Commune by the Great Wall
The Commune's collection of modern villas sits nestled in a green valley about 80km outside central Beijing. For those looking to splurge on a retreat from Beijing's bustle, the Commune combines beautiful scenery with striking architecture and award-winning service.
Modern Luxury
The Commune began as twelve unique modernist houses, each designed by a different Asian architect. The contemporary designs, with their sleek angles and sharp silhouettes, stand out from the verdant hillside while still complimenting the valley's natural beauty. Large windows, sweeping porches, and rooftop patios make every house feel open and airy.
Due to rising demand, the Commune has since duplicated the original designs; now, a total of 42 villas sprawl across the valley. Each has several private bedrooms and a common living room and kitchen, stocked with complimentary sodas and water. Couples can rent an individual room for privacy, or families can rent out an entire villa.
China Excursions Part 1
Inner Mongolia
The trek to Inner Mongolia may lead some travelers to question whether or not they are still in China. The flowing grasslands and desert expanses of this exotic land are a far cry from Beijing, and the capital city Hohhot offers exposure to mystic traditions and delicious cuisine. While organized tours are available in and around Hohhot, families with older children may want to visit more remote towns and villages. Spend a night in a traditional nomadic yurt and visit the mausoleum of Genghis Khan. Culture-seekers can soak up traditional Mongolian singing and dancing, while adventurers can try horse and camel riding. Due to the normally harsh climate in this part of the country, visiting between June and September is recommended.
