beijingkids December 2010 issue

JINGLE IN THE ’JING

December 2010

Everything you need to celebrate Christmas in the capital

Chilli Weather Get spicy in the kitchen Cupcakes for Christmas Lollipop shares their recipes The Power Within Boost your immune system

PLUS

Travel to India Sip hot chocolate Explore Shunyi

beijingkids edition

December 2010

PRICE:RMB¥15.00(DOMESTIC) US$4.95(ABROAD)

JINGLE IN THE ’JING Everything you need to celebrate Christmas in the capital

Chili Weather Get spicy in the kitchen Cupcakes for Christmas Lollipop shares their recipes The Power Within Boost your immune system

PLUS

Travel to India Sip hot chocolate Explore Shunyi

52

December 2010 Contents

34

26

22

Dining

Features 53

Christmas Celebration

26

56

One In 22 Million

27

10 Christmas Must-Haves

28

Food for Thought A Chilli Christmas

Where to find your festive gear

64

Top 5 Places to ...

Drink hot chocolate

Five inspirational Beijingers who are making a difference

60

Dining Out Rumi

How does your family celebrate Christmas?

Decorative Delights Creative Christmas crafts

Living 19

Playing 30

Village life on your doorstep

34

Snapshot

37

Noticeboard

Health Immune Boosters Helping your immune system help you

24

Ms. Nutrition In-flight food fight

25

The Doc is In The truth behind the remedy

Family Travels Visit New York City

Updates, recommendations and interesting finds

22

Inside: Lollipop Bakery A merry cupcake Christmas

Winter Fashion

20

What’s Fun In: Shunyi

38 40

Venture to India

Day Tripper Take in the fresh air at Silver Mountain

88 December 2010 Contents

42

18

12

Essentials

Learning 42

When I Grow Up I want to be a filmmaker

44

Blank Canvas Artwork from Beanstalk International Bilingual School

46

Debate Club Is our air clean enough?

Parenting 48

Close Up Yanhong Wheeler inspires change in parenting practices

50

Alternate Routes

9

Editor’s Note

10

December Calendar

12 14 18 88

New Arrivals The Circuit Happenings in the Beijing family scene

96

Family Favorites The Fu Family

Directories

Beijing Baba An island holiday

December Events Say hello to Beijing’s smallest

Christmas abroad

51

Top 10 Things to do in December

68 73 75 76 77 78 84 86

Family Dining Family Health Family Life Family Travel Fun Stuff Schools Shopping Sports

《中国妇女》英文刊

2010 年 12 月（下半月）

beijingkids edition 家庭版 WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly Sponsored and administrated by ALL-CHINA WOMEN’S FEDERATION Published by WOMEN’S FOREIGN LANGUAGE PUBLICATIONS OF CHINA Publishing Date: December 1st, 2010 Adviser 顾 问 中华全国妇女联合会名誉主席

WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 中华全国妇女联合会主管/主办 中国妇女外文期刊社出版 本期出版时间: 2010年12月1日 陈慕华 CHEN MUHUA 全国人大常委会前副委员长

Honorary President of the ACWF and Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Adviser 顾 问 中华全国妇女联合会名誉主席

彭 云 PENG PEIYUN 全国人大常委会前副委员长

Honorary President of the ACWF and Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Adviser 顾 问

顾秀莲 GU XIULIAN 全国人大常委会前副委员长

Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Director & Editor-in-Chief 社长 · 总编辑 Chief Editor 主编 Managing Editor Deputy Managing Editor Editorial Assistant Shunyi Correspondent Contributing Writers Editorial Consultant 编辑顾问 Director of Sales Department 广告发行经营部主任 Tel Legal Adviser 法律顾问 Advertising Agency 广告代理 Advertising Hotlines 广告热线 Fax 传真 Printing 印刷 Address 本刊地址

YUN PENGJU 恽鹏举 WEI LIANG 位亮 Imogen Kandel Kara Chin Annie Huang Carlotte Moreau Martin Adams, Jennifer Ambrose, Shepherd Laughlin, Olivia Lee, Richard Saint Cyr, Xiyun Yang ROBERT MILLER (Canadian) 罗伯特 · 米勒 (加拿大) XIA WEI 夏巍 6522 5376 LI XUESEN 李雪森 Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited 深度体验国际广告(北京)有限公司 5820 7700 / 5820 7883 58207895 C&C JOINT PRINTING CO.,(BEIJING) LTD. 北京华联印刷有限公司 WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 《中国妇女》英文月刊 15 Jianguomennei Dajie, Beijing 100730, China 中国北京建国门内大街15号 邮编:100730

国际标准刊号

ISSN1000 9388

国内统一刊号

CN11-1704/C

Age-by-Age Index Babies Watch the tree lights ......................................................... 12 Beijing’s newest arrivals ..................................................... 18 Stroll around Shunyi .......................................................... 30 Shop for baubles ............................................................... 61 Pose with Saint Nick .......................................................... 63 See a Christmas train ........................................................ 63 A Beijing family’s favorites ................................................. 96

Toddlers Sip tea with a teddy bear ................................................... 14 Sing Christmas carols ........................................................ 14 Explore India .................................................................... 38 Build a gingerbread house ................................................. 61 Visit a Christmas tree......................................................... 63 Meet Santa Claus .............................................................. 63 Create a paper wreath ....................................................... 64

Elementary School Kids Have fun at UCCA ............................................................. 12 Drink hot chocolate ........................................................... 27 Bake cupcakes .................................................................. 34 Explore New York City ....................................................... 37 Meet a filmmaker .............................................................. 42 Twirl on ice ....................................................................... 62 Make your own decorations................................................ 66

Middle and High School Kids Dip into hummus............................................................... 26 Make chilli sauces .............................................................. 28 Debate China’s air quality .................................................. 46 Be charitable..................................................................... 56 Decorate a tree ................................................................. 61 Whip up egg nog .............................................................. 63 Check out the scene .......................................................... 88

The beijingkids Board Jacqueline Cohen Advertising Agency

Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited

A busy mom of two, Jacqueline has lived in Asia for over 12 years and in Beijing for the past four. A socializing super-mom, Jacqueline knows every nook of this city and everyone in it.

广告代理

Yuliya Mavletbaeva

深度体验国际广告（北京）有限公司 Tel/电话: 5820 7100 / 7700 Fax/传真：5820 7891 Advertising Hotline/广告热线：5820 7700 /5820 7883

Yuliya has lived in Beijing for over eight years. When she’s not looking after her little girl, Yuliya runs parentchildren classes, including Kindermusik, Zumba, and infant massage. Visit her website for details, www.familyfunwithyuliya.com.

General Manager Michael Wester Operation Director Toni Ma Editorial Planning Director Jerry Chan Managing Editorial Planner Imogen Kandel

Laura Johnson-Hill Longtime Beijinger Laura looks after her three girls, as well as helping her husband run Beijing’s famous Plastered T-shirt company. You can find her walking around Nanluogu Xiang. www.plasteredtshirts.com

Deputy Managing Editorial Planner Kara Chin

Christopher Lay

Editorial Assistant Annie Huang Shunyi Correspondent Charlotte Moreau Marketing Manager Skott Taylor Marketing Executives Cao Yue, Cindy Kusuma, Lyn Zhao

Christopher’s many jobs include dad, writer, photographer and all-round nice guy. Catch him in beijingkids’ Beijing Baba column or visit his blog, http://alive.tom.com/chrislay

Art Director Susu Luo Principal Designer Li Xing Advertising Designer Helen He Photographers Song Yang, Judy Zhou Visual Editor Joey Guo

Sandy Macmillan Sandy is a dad of two. Formerly a creative director, he now runs Brand Energies, a funky graphic design and production company. Check out his work at www. brandenergies.com.

Hetal Hemnani

Illustrators Li Xing Sales Manager Elena Damjanoska Sales Team Ashley Lendrum, Keli Dal Bosco, Geraldine Cowper, Lynn Cui, Phoebe Li, Veronica Li,Maggie Qi, Hailie Song, Jackie Yu, Sophia Zhou Finance Alex Wang, Lisa Ji, Judy Zhao Distribution Jenny Wang, Victoria Wang General Inquiries 5820 7100/7700 Editorial Planning 5820 7100/7700 ext 883

Hetal is either busy running the Indian restaurant Ganges, or spending time with her son. If you want to trade recipes with Hetal, e-mail hetalhvh@yahoo.in.

Johanna Selth Johanna is one busy mom. When she’s not looking after her two kids, Johanna supplies Beijing parents with must-have imported baby gear from her store, BabyGro. Contact Johanna at johanna @babygro.com.cn.

Kathryn Tonges

Distribution 5820 7100/7700 ext 870 Fax 5820 7895

Email: info@beijing-kids.com; editorkids@beijing-kids.com; sales@beijing-kids.com; distribution@beijing-kids.com; listing@beijing-kids.

Kathryn Tonges is a teacher, parenting expert, and mother of two grown boys. For more information on parent effectiveness training, contact Kathryn at kathryn.tonges@gmail.com.

com; marketing@beijing-kids.com

www.beijing-kids.com WOMEN OF CHINA

JINGLE IN THE ’JING A

December 2010

《中国妇女》

Everything you need to celebrate Christmas in the capital

Beijing’s essential expat family resource

Chilli Weather Get spicy in the kitchen Cupcakes for Christmas Lollipop shares their recipes The Power Within Boost your immune system

PLUS

December 2010

Travel to India Sip hot chocolate Explore Shunyi

ON THE COVER:

Khemteri (2.5 years old) is from Trinidad and Tobago and attends The International Montessori School of Beijing. She loves chocolate and dancing. Photo by Mishka Family Photography.

Want To Join?

If you think you’d make a valuable contribution to the beijingkids Board, e-mail the editor at imogenkandel@beijing-kids.com.

Editor's Note

The editor (age 3) wearing her flower power t-shirt at 5am on Christmas morning

A Surprise Under the Tree

I

was around 4 years old and it was Christmas Eve. I was so overexcited that my parents probably rummaged through the medicine cabinet in desperation to see how many prescription pills I had consumed.

I was just old enough to understand the magnitude of this festive holiday. My thought process went something like this: So let me get this straight – a jolly fat man gives me every present I’ve ever dreamed of, I get to eat as many white-bread baguettes with butter as I like (both were banned substances in our hippie household), I get to gorge on pudding all day and no one will tell me off? Surely this was some kind of test, perhaps a trap of some kind.

Suspicions aside, it was pleasure overload and I literally could not wait for morning to come. I was overwhelmed – running around the house screaming, crying, begging my father to make Santa come sooner. Didn’t he understand this was a life or death situation? Eventually, and by some miracle of parental prowess, I fell asleep.

But my excitement did not wane. In fact, it grew more powerful as I slept. At 5am, my eyes flicked open. My bare feet hit the wooden floorboards and I was off – pad, pad, pad – down the corridor, waking everyone up as I went.

My little blue eyes turned wide as saucers. Under the tree was everything I had scribbled on my list to Mr. Claus. Among the thousands of little presents (I was a “more is more” kind of girl) was the main event: a new pair of bathers (swimsuit in Australia-speak) and a brand-new boogie board. By now, my parents and brother had joined me by the tree. “Santa came! Santa came!” I exclaimed at a fever pitch. Imagine a tiny blond girl jumping up and down while simultaneously performing the best “jazz hands” you’ve ever seen.

The wrapping paper, the mince pies, the tinsel, the knowledge that there was a mysterious grown-up who lived to shower me with presents – it was mind-blowing. I was overdosing with happiness. My eyes rolled back in my head, my stomach churned, my palms turned sweaty. I threw up right there under the tree, a puddle of mince pie vomit sitting between my brother’s new tool kit and my pink-and-white checked bikini.

I had passed out. My mother had to carry me back to bed, where I slept like a rock for over four hours – an emotionally exhausted shell of festive cheer. The good news is that I got up in time for lunch, and still managed to eat three servings of pudding with brandy cream.

It is with the same festive fervor that we introduce this year’s jam-packed Christmas feature. Inside, you’ll find out how to make Christmas ornaments and gingerbread wreaths with the kids (p64), be inspired by people who are making a difference (p56), see how other families are spending their Christmas (p53), and find everything you need to make your Beijing Christmas a merry one (p60).

Finally, if you find yourself having to provide assistance to an overexcited child this festive season, just remember: There’s no cure. You just have to work through it and be there for them when they puke all over their presents.

Imogen Kandel Managing Editor December 2010

beijingkids

9

DECEMBER MON

TUE

Want your family-friendly event to appear in our next issue?

Upload your events at www.beijing-kids.com/events by Dec 13.

WED

THU

FRI

Decorating Christmas Cookies

Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final 2010

Dr. Branka of International SOS Clinic, and air pollution specialist Christ Buckley from Torana Clean Air. See Dec 7 listing.

For ages 3-6 and adults. Decorate sugar cookies, buckeyes (peanut butter and chocolate), and other delicious treats! See Dec 9 listing.

For ages 7+ and adults. Watch some of the best figure skaters in the world. See Dec 9 listing.

Tiger Hip Hop: Zero Hour

La Leche Meeting on Nursing and Solids

Fo r a g e s 1 3 + a n d a d u l t s .

Vignettes about a young Chinese mother arriving in the US in the 80s. See Dec 16 listing.

For adults. A continuing series of informal discussion meetings for women interested in breastfeeding.

See Dec 17 listing.

Shangda Christmas Bazaar

Christmas Eve at the Schoolhouse

A three-day bazaar featuring a lucky draw, Christmas caroling, Santa Claus, a clown, angels and a DIY cookie corner. See Dec 23 listing.

For all ages. Live jazz, pan-fried g o o s e l i v e r, r o a s t g o o s e , persimmon from our tree, and caroling. See Dec 24 listing.

The Library Festive Delights

Hilton Beijing Christmas Hilton Beijing Wangfujing train New Year’s Eve

Global Debate, supported by UN Foundation

British Club Christmas Coffee

For ages 14-16 and adults. YCIS Beijing Year 10 and Year 11 students engage in a debate supported by the United Nations Foundation. See Dec 13 listing.

For adults. Coffee, mince pies and games. See Dec 14 listing.

Walking with Dinosaurs

Kids dine at Element Fresh for a chance to win tickets to see Walking with Dinosaurs. See All Month listing.

Skate and Spin

Lace up and hit the ice. For details on where to ice skate, see Top Ten, p13.

Little Jeep

For ages 3-12. The Little Jeep is the Chinese version of Thomas the Tank Engine. In Chinese only.

See Jan 1 listing.

10

beijingkids

The American Philharmonic plays Harry Potter

For ages 7+ and adults. An orchestra plays music from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, as well as Gershwin and Strauss.

See Jan 4 listing.

December 2010

Visit the this colorful Gingerbread house that will be stocked with Christmas treats such as Yule log cake, chocolate Christmas trees and gingerbread houses. See All Month listing.

Join the Hilton for their charity Enjoy scrumptious bufbazaar, tree lightingdelights and their fet-style totrain. commemorate Christmas Until Jan the 9. celebration.

Dec 31 listing.

Hilton Beijing,See Dongsanhuan Beilu (5865 5000)

Sip Hot Chocolate

Chaterhouse Booktrader

Let a mug of hot cocoa warm you up. See Top Ten, p27.

Choose a story to suit the bookworm in your family. For more fun things to do in Shunyi District, see What’s Fun In, p30.

PHOTOS: MOWIELICIOUS, DAVE MCLEAR, ADWRITER AND PETITPLAT FOOD ART OF FLICKR AND KARA CHIN

6 7 8 9 10 13 14 15 16 17 24 20 21 22 23 22 31 27 28 29 30 30 24 3 4567 Information Workshop on Beijing Pollution

Readers are encouraged to double-check event details with the organizers as dates and locations may change.

SAT

SUN

11 12 18 19 25 26 29 1 2 8 9

Teddy Bear Tea at Ritz Carlton Financial Street

For ages 3+ and adults. A life-size teddy bear, games, story telling, a lucky draw and treats. See Dec 11 listing.

UCCA Family Day

For ages 3+ and adults. A kid-friendly tour of UCCA, a short French animated film with Chinese subtitles, a painting workshop and a percussion workshop.

See Dec 18 listing.

Hilton Beijing Christmas Day

American favorites with a creative modern twist. See Dec 25 listing.

The Hutong Christmas Fayre

For all ages. Find the perfect present at this Christmas bazaar while sipping hot wine. See Dec 12 listing.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Enjoy the German Christmas stollen, cookies and mulled wine See Dec 12 listing.

Solana Lakeside Christmas Market

Come witness the longest Christmas table in Beijing – and pick up some gifts while you’re at it. See All Month listing.

New Year’s Day Recovery Bubbalicious

Little Tadpole Search for His Mother

Dive into a seafood buffet while recovering from a night of partying. See Jan 1 listing.

For ages 3-12. Reminiscent of Nemo the crown fish, a little tadpole goes in search of his mother. In Chinese only.

See Jan 1 listing.

Hand-Pulled Noodles and Dumplings Class

Make your own longevity noodle and dumplings. RMB 200, RMB 150 for kids under 12. 6-8pm. China Culture Center.

See Directory for listing.

A Daytrip Little Jeepto(inShunyi Chinese)

Step outside to Shunyi to your favorite For ages 3-12. The Little Jeep is the spots and discover some new ones. See Chinese version of Thomas the Tank EnWhat’s Fun In, p30. gine. In Chinese only. See Jan 1 listin

December 2010

beijingkids

11

Essentials Events

December Top 10

1

Want your family-friendly event to appear in our next issue?

Upload your events at www.beijing-kids.com/events by Dec 13.

beijingkids Santa on Ice

For age 3-10. This December 12 join beijingkids for an afternoon of festive fun. Go ice skating with Santa, take part in Christmas games and enjoy some traditional Christmas treats. You can even get your photo taken with Mr. Claus! See Dec 12 listing for details.

2

See A Christmas Tree

Go and see a giant Christmas tree in all its festive glory. Beijing Marriott Northeast, Legendale Hotel Beijing and Hilton Beijing will each have a tall decked-out pine. And be sure to see Hilton Beijing’s delightful Christmas train, as it travels through a mini winter wonderland. For more festive cheer, see Feature (p60).

Dig Into Christmas Dinner

4

Build a Gingerbread House Let the kids play with their food as they assemble a house of gingerbread, gumdrops and icing. Purchase an expertly-designed gingerbread house or create your own from scratch. For details on where to buy supplies or pick up a ready-made creation, see Feature (p60).

Sing-A-Long

5

Get into the spirit by singing your favorite holiday tunes. Join the community for some caroling at Hilton Beijing Wangfujing (Dec 9 listing), Fairmont Beijing’s Teddy Bear Tea Party (Dec 11 listing), or Care For Children’s The Centre in Shunyi (Dec 12 listing). To participate in Christmas mass, see Feature (p60) or inquire for details at your local church.

12

beijingkids

December 2010

PHOTOS: SEAN DREILINGER, CHRISSYMORIN, STUCK IN CUSTOMS AND JUSTIN BUGSY SAILOR OR FLICKR AND COURTESY OF UCCA

3

Gorge on a gourmet feast of turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing and the like. Don’t fret, because on this day, gluttony is obliged. For details on where to dine or pick up your own ingredients, see Dec 24 listing and Feature (p60).

Essentials Events

6

Fun at UCCA Family Day

Looking for the perfect event to tire your kids out in one day? Join UCCA for Family Day on December 18. The day will be divided into four parts: a guided tour with designed booklets, a short French animation showcase, an artist workshop with contemporary artist Liu Xiaodong and a percussion workshop. Families may choose to attend activities independently or attend all four. There will also be a play area and a special menu. For details, see Dec 18 listing.

Warm Up With Hot Chocolate

7

The weather out there is frightful, so cozy up with a mug of piping hot cocoa. For places to sip the best winter concoction, see Dining (p27), or why not make your own?

Pick up supplies at your nearest foreign supermarket. Our tip: Add marshmallows, cream and a stick of cinnamon for a special touch. For a healthier hot chocolate, raw organic cocao powder can be purchased from the World Heath Store. See Directory for listings under Supermarkets.

Play Inside

8

Tired of bundling up? Play inside, where it’s warm instead. Beijing is full of indoor playgrounds from Fundazzle and A-Z Kids. More expansive centers include the Magic Bean House, Family Box and The Familier. For details, see Directory under Play Centers.

PHOTOS: DEATHBYBOKEN AND BRIANJMATIS OF FLICKR, KARA CHIN, SUI AND JUDY ZHOU

Cold Day Crafts

9

Keep little fingers and minds busy with some creative crafts. Scissors, glue and imagination are all you need to create a string of gingerbread men or your very own Christmas ornament. Use the crafts to decorate your abode or make them as presents - see Feature (p64).

Deck the Halls

10

Get into the spirit of the season and decorate your home from head to toe. Pick up a Christmas tree, festive baubles, gold tinsel, twinkling lights and pots of red poinsettias.

Don’t know where to find them? For details, see Feature (p60).

December 2010

beijingkids

13

KEY

Essentials Events Playing

Food/Dining

Sport

Culture/Education

Tue, Dec 7 Afternoon Tea with Mommy and Me For ages 0-3. Tea and socialization for both mommy and child. Includes a preview of Kindermusik with Yuliya.

RMB 50 for one adult and one child, includes food and drink. First Tue of every month. 2-4pm. Familier Private Kids Community Center (5869 2904, 138 1159 8903, service@thefamilier.com) www.thefamilier.com

The Bookworm International Literary Festival 2011 Volunteer Meeting For adults. Join an info session as they recruit volunteers for their March 2011 project. Free. Dec 7 and 8. 7.30-9pm.

The Bookworm (kadi@chinabookworm. com)

85 Broads Beijing Chapter Meeting For adults. An event for women doing business in Beijing. Featuring three dynamic female keynote speakers. Run by 85 Broads. RMB 285 includes a three course dinner by Colibri. Space limited to 40, and preference given to 85 Broads members. RSVP essential. RMB 285.

7.30-9pm. Sanlitun Village, 19 Sanlitun Lu (6417 6110, beijing85broads@gmail. com)

Information Workshop on Beijing Pollution Dr. Branka of International SOS Clinic, and air pollution specialist Christ Buckley from Torana Clean Air. Free. 10am. House of Knowledge, Chaoyang Campus. RSVP at katie@house-of-knowledge.net.

Wed, Dec 8 The Bookworm International Literary Festival 2011 Volunteer Meeting Free. 12.30-2pm. See Dec 7 listing.

Thu, Dec 9 INN Trekkie to the Capital Museum For adults. A new destination every month. Held on the second Thu of each month. RSVP essential to innbeijing@hotmail.com at least two days before the Trekkie date. 10am-2pm. www.innbeijing.org

Decorating Christmas Cookies For ages 3-6 and adults. Decorate sugar cookies, buckeyes (peanut butter and chocolate), and bring them home. Lunch is provided. RSVP at shanbyers@gmail. com or call Peapod Baby at 6530 7455.

RMB 150 per child. 11am -2pm. Peapod Baby, Apt 209, Bldg 1, China Central Place Apartments (150 1077 1929, Shanbyers@gmail.com)

Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final 2010

beijingkids

Looking for more family-friendly events in Beijing?

Visit us online at www.beijing-kids.com/events

six skaters from the six competitions.

RMB 30/50 (students), RMB 180, RMB 280, RMB 380, RMB 580, RMB 880. Dec 9-11. 1.45-11pm. Capital Indoor Stadium, 56 Zhongguancun South Street, Haidian District (next to Beijing Zoo).

(6835 0077)

story telling, a lucky draw and treats.

RSVP at 6629 6641. RMB 268+ adults includes a drink, RMB 134+ for ages 6-12, free for ages under 6. 3-5pm.

Ritz-Carlton Suite (Presidential Suite), The Ritz-Carlton, Financial Street (6601 6666)

“Rainbow Journey” Migrant School Students’ Art Program at UCCA

Fairmont Beijing’s Teddy Bear Tea Party

For adults. The “Rainbow Journey” Migrant School Students’ Art Program was developed by the UCCA Education team to support and expand educational opportunities for the children of migrant workers. Exhibiting artist Lu Zhengyuan will lead the students to have a look at his work and teach students how to create a work of art. Free with UCCA membership.

2-4pm. Ullens Center for Contemporary Art (UCCA) (8459 9269)

For ages 3+ and adults. Afternoon tea buffet with a children’s choir. Make a gingerbread house with a pastry chef, meet Santa Claus (who has gifts to give), get your face painted or watch a movie.

RMB 180 adults, RMB 98 child. Dec 11, 12 and 18. 3-5.30pm. Fairmont Beijing, 8 Yongan Dongli, Jianguomenwai Dajie Chaoyang District. RSVP at 8507 3619.

Christmas carols with BSB and BISS

Christmas Party for Pets & Their People

For all ages. Singing by the Christmas Choir of the British School of Beijing and music from the Beijing BISS International School’s flute ensemble. Santa Claus will be distributing presents on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Free. Dec 9 and 12.

6-7pm. Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, hotel lobby (5812 8888)

For all ages. Enjoy special holiday treats.

All pets will receive a Christmas gift.

Enter the lucky prize draw - raffle ticket proceeds go to the ICVS Community Cats Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Program.

Free. 11am-2pm. The International Center for Veterinary Services, Kent Center, 29 Liangmaqiao Lu, Anjialou, Chaoyang District (8456 1939/40/41, ICVS_CHINA@yahoo.com)

Basically Beethoven: Christmas Carols!

La Leche Meeting on Breastfeeding

For ages 7+ and adults. Sing your favorite Christmas carols with special musical guests while enjoying mulled wine and minced pies. Caroling sheets provided.

Free to attend. 7.30-9pm. The Bookworm (6586 9507, books@beijingbookworm. com, kidsclub@beijingbookworm.com)

For adults. La Leche League is an international, non-profit organization dedicated to providing education and support to women who want to breastfeed. A continuing series of informal discussion meetings are open to all women interested in breastfeeding. In Chinese. Annual membership in La Leche League is RMB 300. 10.30am-noon. www.muruhui.org

Swan Lake by the National Ballet of China For ages 7+ and adults. See this classic ballet as performed by China’s only national ballet company, The National Ballet of China. RMB 180, RMB 280, RMB 380, RMB 480, RMB 580, RMB 680. Dec 9-12. 7.30-10pm. National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), 2 Chang’an Jie (6655 0000)

Fri, Dec 10 Parent Talk – Childhood Rashes

by Dr. Stephanie Teoh For adults. Dr. Stephanie Teoh from International SOS Beijing will talks about childhood rashes. Free. 1.30- 2pm.

Dulwich College Beijing

Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final 2010 See Dec 9 listing.

Swan Lake by the National Ballet of China See Dec 9 listing.

Sat, Dec 11

For ages 7+ and adults. Organized by the International Skating Union, ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating is the highest-level figure skating series events in the world. The Final features the top

14

Community/Networking

Teddy Bear Tea at Ritz Carlton Financial Street For ages 3+ and adults. A Ritz-Carlton tradition. A life-size teddy bear, games,

December 2010

International Migrants Day A photographic, video and textual series of migrants by Cyjo in collaboration with Compassion for Migrant Children. Join them for food and drinks as they promote awareness about the contributions of migrants to economic development. RMB 50. 6-10pm. T Art Center, 798 District, Jiuxian Qiao Lu, Chaoyang District

Peapod Baby Christmas Party For ages 3+ and adults. Dance, play and snack on Christmas cookies with new friends. Free. 4-7pm. Peabody Baby, Apt 209, Bldg 1, China Central Place Apartments (150 1077 1929, S h a n b ye r s @ g m a i l . c o m ) R S V P a t shanbyers@gmail.com or 6530 7455.

The Great Canadian Christmas For ages 3+ and adults. Grand prize in the lucky draw includes two roundtrip tickets from Beijing to Canada. RMB 350 members or booked before Dec 3, RMB 550 non-members, RMB 60 for ages 5-12, free for under 4. 6-11pm. Sofitel Wanda (8526 1820, events@ccbcbeijing. com)

Christmas and New Year Dancing Party For ages 7+. Golden Int’l Dance Acad-

emy will dance party for Christmas and New Year’s. Enjoy Jazz and Rumba dance lessons and watch a student showcase.

Ticket includes a lesson and a drink. RMB 199 if booked before Dec 9, RMB 249 if booked before Dec 11, RMB 299 at the door. 7-9pm. (6708 0167 ext15) www. goldendancing.com

The Agape Center Marriage Enrichment Seminar Led by Stephannie Tebow. If your marriage is challenged during this season or you just want to make it the best relationship in your life, then attend this seminar. 9am-12.30pm in English. 2-5pm in English with Chinese translation. The Henderson Center(6467 2362)

Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final 2010 See Dec 9 listing.

Swan Lake by the National Ballet of China See Dec 9 listing.

Sun, Dec 12 beijingkids Santa on Ice For age 3-10. Skate with Santa, take part in Christmas games and enjoy some traditional Christmas treats. RMB 80 beijingkids club member, RMB 120 nonbeijingkids club member) 1.30- 4pm. Le Cool, B2/F China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie. Contact Cindy at 5820 5407 or events@beijing-kids.com.

UCCA Children’s Rhythm Lecture: The Triumphant Christmas—World Percussion For ages 4+. UCCA and special guest Wu Huizhen of the Ju Percussion Group from Taiwan presents a series of lectures for children about percussion instruments.

Chinese only. RSVP essential. RMB 50 per child, discounts with UCCA membership.

10.30-11.30am. UCCA, 798 Art District (8459 9269)

The Hutong Christmas Fayre For all ages. Find the perfect present at this Christmas bazaar while sipping hot wine. Choose from tea, cheese, handmade crafts, photographs, jewelry and baked goods. Ten percent of proceeds goes toward charity. Free.

11am-3pm. The Hutong, 1 Jiudaowan Zhongxiang Hutong (southeast of Beixinqiao subway station). (159 0104 6127, info@the-hutong.com)

Tea with Santa For ages 3+ and adults. Share a sandwich and a drink with the big guy and tell him your Christmas wishes. RMB 75 per child. 3-5pm. Peabody Baby, Apt 209, Bldg 1, China Central Place Apartments (150 1077 1929, Shanbyers@gmail.com) RSVP at shanbyers@gmail.com or call Peapod Baby at 6530 7455.

Carols By Candlelight Christmas carols, a Chinese choir, baubles for sale, as well as mince pies, gingerbread cookies, mulled wine and hot chocolate. Guests should bring at

least one present suitable for a child under 12 years of age – Care for Children will deliver it to Shijiazhuang orphanage.

6pm. The Centre, 1 Xiangjiang Beilu, Shunyi District (8470 2735)

BICF Christmas Banquet For all ages. This event is open to the whole community (expatriates and locals). RMB 220 adult, RMB 70 for ages 6-12. Tickets on sale on Sundays at the Lobby 21st Century Theater Lobby, ZGC and CBD. 21st Century Hotel 2/F, #FA 201, 40 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. BICF 21st Century Offices are open Mon - Fri 9am-5.30pm (8454 3468)

Lighting of Parol Come see the lighting of Philippine Christmas lanterns. 8am at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Wangfujing, Dongcheng District (6524 0634). 4pm at South Cathedral, 141 Qianmen Xidajie, 10 meters from Xuanwumen subway station, Xicheng District (6602 6538)

welcome. No jeans or sneakers. RMB 40 members, RMB 60 non-members. 10am2pm. The Capital Club, 50/F, Capital Mansion, 6 Xinyuan Nanlu (8486 2225 ext 260, member@thecapitalclub.com, britclubbeijing@yahoo.com)

Tiger-Head Shoes Workshop For adults. Learn how to make this traditional symbol of good luck for babies. RMB 150. 2-5pm. China Culture Center (CCC), Kent Center, 29 Anjialou, Liangmaqiao Lu (6432 9341/1041, info@chinaculturecenter.org)

Christmas at Peapod Baby For ages 3+ and adults. Celebrate the birth of Jesus with a story, Christmas carols and decorating cupcakes. RSVP essential. RMB 25 per child. 4-6pm. Peapod Baby, Apt 209, Bldg 1, China Central Place Apartments (6530 7455, 150 1077 1929, Shanbyers@gmail.com)

Thu, Dec 16

Festive Brunch in Aroma

Tiger Hip Hop: Zero Hour

Enjoy appetizers, salads and desserts along with barbecued meats and seafood. Free flow of house wine, beer and soft drinks. RMB 398+ includes free flow soft drinks, juice, local beer and house wine, RMB 498+ includes free flow soft drinks, juice, house wine and champagne. Dec 12, 19 and 26.

11.30am-3pm. Aroma, The Ritz-Carlton (5908 8161).

For ages 13+ and adults. ChineseAmerican Philein Wang weaves together vignettes about a young Chinese mother arriving in the United States in 1985.

RMB 120 door, RMB 100 advance, RMB 80 student. Dec 16-18. 7.30-9pm. Penghao Theater, 35 Dongmianhua Hutong (south gate of the Central Academy of Drama, between Nanluogu Xiang and Jiaodaokou Nandajie). (6400 6452/72)

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony On each advent Sunday, see a lit-up tree while the Little Angels children sing Christmas carols. Enjoy Christmas stollen, cookies, mulled wine and punch.

Free. Dec 12 and 19. 5.30-6.30pm.

Kempinski Hotel Beijing (6465 3388)

Fri, Dec 17 La Leche Meeting on Nursing and Solids

See Dec 9 listing.

For adults. A continuing series of informal discussions. Open to all women interested in breastfeeding. In English.

Annual membership in La Leche League is RMB 300. 10.30am-noon. 1.30-3pm.

Beijing United Family Hospital, 2 Jiangtai Lu (in the Lido area). (5927 7000, 5927 7120 ER) www.muruhui.org

Swan Lake by the National Ballet of China

BWYA’s Annual December Talent Show

See Dec 9 listing.

For ages 17+ and adults. BWYA students show their talents at the school’s annual December showcase. Free. 1.30-3.30pm.

Heaven & Earth Theater, Dong Erhuan, North of Poly Theatre (6461 7787, info@ibwya.net) www.ibwya.net

Christmas carols with BSB and BISS

Fairmont Beijing’s Teddy Bear Tea Party See Dec 11 listing.

Mon, Dec 13 Global Debate, supported by UN Foundation For ages 14-16 and adults. YCIS Beijing Year 10 and 11 students, along with invited guests, engage in the Global Debate event supported by the United Nations Foundation. Free. 1-2.30pm.

YCIS Beijing, near East Fourth Ring Road (8583 3731, enquiry@bj.ycef.com)

Ivy Academy Santa Lucia Day and Open House Join Ivy Academy’s families to learn more about Swedish Santa Lucia Day. A morning of sweet treats, crafts, and music. 9-11am. East Lake Villas, C101, 35 Dongzhimen Waidajie, Dongcheng District (8451 1380, 8451 1381)

Tue, Dec 14 British Club Christmas Coffee

Tiger Hip Hop: Zero Hour See Dec 16 listing.

Sat, Dec 18 UCCA Family Day For ages 3+ and adults. A four-part day of family fun: a kid-friendly tour of UCCA (treasure hunt booklets provided), a short French animated film with Chinese subtitles, a painting workshop with guest Liu Xiaodong (materials provided) and a percussion workshop. In Chinese with English translation. RMB 180 whole day ticket includes entry to all programs for four people, RMB 30 tour ticket per family (up to four people), painting workshop RMB 100 per family (up to four people), film RMB 15 each, RMB 10 for students and kids, percussion workshop RMB 100 per family (up to four people), free if signing up for a family membership.

10am-10.30pm. UCCA, 798 Art District (8459 9269)

For adults. Coffee, mince pies and games. All foreign passport holders December 2010

beijingkids

15

KEY

Essentials Events Playing

Food/Dining

Sport

Culture/Education

Sat, Dec 18 Chinese adaptation of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs For ages 3-12. Enjoy one of the most popular children’s stories of all time. In Chinese. RMB 50-150. Dec 18, 19, 25 and 26. Sat at 3-4pm, 7.15pm; Sun at 3-4pm. China Children’s Art Theater, 64 Donganmen Dajie, west of Wangfujing (6521 1425) Details at www.piaowutong. com, www.ccat.name (Chinese only)

Pet Story (in Chinese) For ages 3-12. A story of friendship between a dog and a mouse. RMB 20.

7.15-8pm. Fengtai Cultural Center, 64 West Fourth Ring South Road, Fentai District. www.piaowutong.com/web/ ticket/ticket_13507.htm (Chinese only)

Fairmont Beijing’s Teddy Bear Tea Party Tiger Hip Hop: Zero Hour See Dec 16 listing.

Sun, Dec 19 Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Starry Christmas at Treasury Ballroom An international seafood buffet with a performance and a lucky draw. Premium Seating: RMB 2,888 net adults, RMB 1,488 net for kids 12 and under; General seating: RMB 2,488 net adults, RMB 1,288 net for kids 12 and under. Prices for adults are inclusive of free flow bubbly, wine, beer, soft drinks and chilled juice. Prices for kids are inclusive of soft drinks and chilled juice. 6.30-10.30pm.

1/F, The Westin Beijing Financial Street (6629 7777/6606 8866)

Aroma Christmas Eve Dinner

Barolo Christmas Eve Dinner

See Dec 12 listing.

Festive Brunch in Aroma See Dec 12 listing.

Chinese adaptation of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs See Dec 18 listing.

Tiger Hip Hop: Zero Hour For ages 13+ and adults. 3-5pm. See Dec 16 listing.

Tue, Dec 21 INN Sanlitun Coffee Morning For adults. A chat and coffee with those in the know. Held on every third Tue of the month. Free. 10am-noon. The Bookworm, 4 Sanlitun Nanlu, Chaoyang District (6586 9507) www.innbeijing.org

Tue, Dec 23 Shangda Christmas Bazaar A three-day bazaar with a lucky draw, Christmas caroling, Santa Claus, a clown, angels and a children’s DIY cookie corner. Stands for vendors are still available - contact the hotel for details. RMB 100 (can be used as equal value purchase coupon at the bazaar), free for kids under 12. Dec 23-25. 10am-9pm. Shangda Hotel, Caishikou (8317 2288, 189 101 711 73) www.shangdahotel.com

Fri, Dec 24 Vasco’s Christmas Eve For all ages. Savor roast turkey, cranberry sauce, fresh oysters and honey baked ham. Complete with free flow of bubbly and selected beverages, door gifts, and live entertainment from a 5-piece swing band with tunes from the 40’s to 50’s.

beijingkids

Santa Claus will also visit with goodies! RMB 468 +15%, RMB 234 +15% for ages 6-12. From 6.30pm. Vasco’s, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, 89 Wangfujing Dongjie (5812 8888)

Indulge in international delicacies. All diners receive one complimentary drink.

Diners may also win exciting lucky draw prizes. RMB988+ includes free flow soft drinks, juice, local beer and house wine, RMB 1,188+ includes free flow soft drinks, juice, house wine and champagne. 6-10pm. Aroma, The Ritz-Carlton (5908 8161).

See Dec 11 listing.

16

Community/Networking

Experience Italy with a magnificent fivecourse dinner. All diners will enjoy one complimentary drink at the Ritz Carlton Bar. RMB 1,088+ for a five-course set dinner, RMB 1,288+ for a five-course set dinner, includes wine. 6-10.30pm.

Barolo, The Ritz-Carlton (5908 8151).

Christmas Feast at Marriott Northeast For all ages. Homemade roasted turkey, warm apple pie, egg nog and more. RSVP for groups of four and up. Lunch buffet (11.30am–2.30pm): RMB 168, half price for kids under 12. Four-course dinner (5.30–9.30pm): RMB 188, half price for kids under 12. Beijing Bistro, 2/F Beijing Marriott Hotel Northeast, 26A Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District (5927 8888) marriottbeijingnortheast.com

One East Christmas Eve Dinner Celebrate in traditional American style with a modern twist. RMB 588 +15% for five-course dinner including a glass of Mumm Champagne on arrival; add RMB 288 +15% for wine pairing. RSVP before December 1 and receive a complimentary wine pairing designed by renowned sommelier Julia Zhu. One East, Hilton Beijing (5865 5030).

Zeta Christmas Eve Party Get your holiday groove on with music and people at Zeta Bar’s party. RMB 199 per person for three hours of free flow house spirits, house wine, local beer and finger food. Zeta, Hilton Beijing (5865 5050)

Infinity Ballroom Christmas Gala Dinner An exciting holiday menu featuring gourmet Christmas specials from around the world and live entertainment. Tickets include entry into the Hilton Beijing’s Christmas Eve Celebration super raffle.

December 2010

Readers are encouraged to double-check event details with the organizers as dates and locations may change.

Buffet: RMB 1,188 +15%, 1,588 +15% or 1,888 +15% for full-course dinner buffet including one glass of sparkling wine on arrival, glue wine, and free flow of local beer, juice, soft drinks and wine. Infinity Ballroom, Hilton Beijing (5865 5865).

Christmas Eve Celebrarions at Raffles For ages 13+ and adults. A six-course gourmet dinner with free flow of French champagne and wines. Santa and his friendly helpers will be there with tricks, magic and presents for all. RMB 668, RMB 998, RMB 2,288. 6-11pm. Raffles Hotel Beijing, 33 Dong Chang’an Dajie (6526 3388)

Christmas Eve at the Schoolhouse For all ages. Live jazz, roast goose, and caroling are just part of the dinner.

Adults RMB 280, RMB 120 ages 4-12, Free under 4. RMB 280, RMB 120 for ages 4-12, Free under 4. 7-10pm. The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu, Mutianyu Village (6162 6506)

Christmas Eve Candy Wonderworld Featuring a candy store, a special buffet and live entertainment: a candy juggler, ballet fairies, puppeteer and magical acrobat and more. Lucky draw prizes include an iPhone 4, an iPad, complimentary trips to New York, Paris and Dubai, and shopping vouchers from BCBG, Paul & Shark, Tony & Guy, Mini Cooper branded gifts, and dining and spa vouchers at the Westin Beijing Chaoyang. RMB 1,588 +15% includes free flow soft drinks, local beer, select wine and Moet & Chandon Champagne.

Dec 24 and 25. 6.30pm onwards. Seasonal Tastes and Grange, 2/F The Westin Beijing Chaoyang (5922 8880)

East 33 Buffet with Santa Boston lobster, poached whole salmon and turkey with tropical fruits. Santa will be there with his helpers to perform tricks and magic to the delight of young and old alike. RMB 688, RMB 488 net for kids under 12. 6pm onwards. East 33, Raffles Hotel Beijing (6526 3388)

InterContinental Christmas Gala An international seafood buffet, live entertainment, and the chance to win a grand prize of a holiday in the US - five nights at InterContinental Chicago and round trip economy airfare for two.

Xian Ballroom, InterContinental Beijing Financial Street (5852 5916, 5852 5975, icbeijing@interconti.com) www.intercontinental.com

Eudora Station’s Christmas A set-meal Christmas dinner with live music played by Bump City featuring Greg Carroll, as well as a lottery draw with all sorts of prizes. Games and gifts for everyone also included. Reservations recommended. RMB 538. 8.30pm.

Eudora Station (6437 8813/8331)

Shangda Christmas Bazaar 10am-midnight. See Dec 23 listing.

Sat, Dec 25 Vasco’s Christmas Day Christmas delights and desserts, and Santa Claus. RMB 468 +15%, RMB 234 +15% for ages 6-12. Dec 24 and 25.

From 11.30 am. Vasco’s, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, 89 Wangfujing Dongjie (5812 8888)

Aroma Christmas Day Brunch A magical festive lunch spread. RMB 398+ includes free flow soft drinks, juice, local beer and house wine. RMB 498+ includes free flow soft drinks, juice, house wine and champagne. 11.30am-2.30pm.

Aroma, The Ritz-Carlton (5908 8161).

Barolo Christmas Day Brunch A five-course lunch. All diners will enjoy one complimentary drink at the Ritz Carlton Bar. RMB 488+ for a five-course set lunch, RMB 688+ for five-course set lunch, includes wine. 11.30am–2.30pm.

Barolo, The Ritz-Carlton (5908 8151).

One East Christmas Day Lunch RMB 288 +15% for three-course American Christmas set lunch menu including turkey carved table-side and flaming puddings; add RMB 148 +15% per person for unlimited Mumm Champagne.

One East, Hilton Beijing (5865 5030).

One East Christmas Day Dinner Open for a la carte and seasonal set menu. RMB 260 +15% for three courses, RMB 320 +15% for four courses. One East, Hilton Beijing (5865 5030).

Elements Christmas Eve Seafood Dinner Buffet Fresh seafood and international favorites including roast turkey and Christmas ham. Tickets include entry into the Hilton Beijing’s Elements super raffle. RMB 498 +15% for dinner buffet including one glass of Mumm Champagne on arrival and free flow of soft drinks, sour plum juice, local beer, Korean soju or Japanese sake, coffee and tea. Elements, Hilton Beijing (5865 5020).

Christmas Day at Mutianyu Great Wall A special supper with fireside drinks and jazz for the adults, Christmas cookie-making for the kids, and a simple sit-down family meal for all. No a la carte on Christmas Day. (6162 6506, info@theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com) www.theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com

Christmas Eve Candy Wonderworld The celebration continues with an unlimited Christmas day brunch. See Dec 24 listing. 11.30 am-9.30pm. Seasonal

Tastes and Grange, 2/F The Westin Beijing Chaoyang (5922 8880)

Christmas Family Brunch Listen to the jazz band as you eat roast goose, scallops with aioli, foie gras, Bavarian meat and more. RMB 458, RMB 229 children. 11.30am-3pm. Kranzler’s, Kempinski (6465 3388 ext 4200).

Creative Studio Children’s Workshop Series – Peculiar Perspectives For ages 4-6. A series of art workshops designed to help children develop their artistic and observational skills. This one will focus on lamps. In Chinese only. RMB 120 per child per workshop session, discounts with membership. 10-11.30am.

UCCA Loft (5821 1455, 8459 9269)

Cookery: hand-pulled noodles and dumplings For ages 3+ and adults. Make thin longevity noodles and dumplings. RMB 200, RMB 150 for kids under 12. 6-8pm.

China Culture Center, Kent Center, 29 Anjialou, Liangmaqiao Lu (6432 9341/1041, info@chinaculturecenter.org)

Shangda Christmas Bazaar 10am-4pm. See Dec 23 listing.

Festive Celebrations at Hilton Beijing Wangfujing See Dec 24 listing.

Chinese adaptation of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs See Dec 18 listing.

Sun, Dec 26 Swan Lake by the Imperial Russian Ballet For ages 7+ and adults. The Imperial Russian Ballet Company with world renowned dancers and ballet stars from Paris, the US and Japan. RMB 880-180.

7.30-10.30pm. Beijing Exhibition Theater, 135 Xizhimenwai Dajie (6835 4455) http://en.piao.com.cn/beijing/

Chinese adaptation of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs See Dec 18 listing.

Festive Brunch in Aroma See Dec 12 listing.

Mon, Dec 27 Beijing Playhouse Winter Theater Camp For ages 6-13. Internships available for older kids (ages 14-16). Children can learn acting, music and dance, set painting, prop making or costume design. This two-week camp ends with a performance of The Nutcracker by all camp participants. Camp runs from Dec 27-Jan 8.

9am-4pm. Beijing Playhouse, camp held at BISS. www.beijingplayhouse.com

Fri, Dec 31 New Year’s at Mutianyu Great Wall Late a country gourmet dinner with live jazz and dancing. Specials on Moet & Chandon. Inquire about overnight and Brickyard New Year’s packages. (6162 6506, info@theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com) www.theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com

New Year’s Eve at The Westin A holiday feast, live entertainment and ucky draws. 6.30-11.30pm. RMB 488 net adults (with a glass of bubbly), RMB 258 net kids 12 and under.

Special price: RMB 500 per bottle of Pommery Champagne. 1/F, Senses and Prego, The Westin Beijing Financial Street (6629 7777/6606 8866)

Elements New Year Eve Seafood Dinner Buffet RMB 428 +15% for dinner buffet including choice of Red or Gold Martine on arrival, free flow soft drinks, sour plum juice, local beer, red and white wine, Korean soju or Japanese Sake, coffee and tea. Elements, Hilton Beijing (5865 5020).

New Year Eve at Aroma A sumptuous buffet dinner. All diners will enjoy one complimentary drink at the Ritz Carlton Bar. RMB 398+ includes free flow soft drinks, juice, local beer and house wine, RMB 498+ includes free flow drinks. 6 -10pm. Aroma, The Ritz-Carlton (5908 8161).

New Year Eve at Barolo Italian dining with dishes designed by our Chef Massimo. All diners will enjoy one complimentary drink at the bar. RMB 488+ for five-course set dinner, RMB 688+ for five-course set dinner includes wine. 6:00pm -10:30pm. Barolo, The Ritz-Carlton (5908 8151).

New Year Eve at Ritz Carlton Bar Count down in grand style. RMB 188+ includes light canapés and a complimentary champagne to be served at the midnight. The Ritz-Carlton Bar, The Ritz-Carlton (5908 8131)

Zeta New Year’s Eve Countdown Party Music mixed by international DJs. RMB 288 +15% includes open bar from 9pm-1am and one glass of Mumm Champagne, RMB 1,388 +15% per couple including a bottle of Mumm Champagne and free flow drinks and finger food, plus a free room at Hilton Beijing for the night. Zeta, Hilton Beijing (5865 5050)

Hilton Beijing Wangfujing New Year’s Eve Fresh food and other scrumptious delights. RMB 328 + 15% with free flow house wine. From 6.30pm. Vasco’s, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing (5812 8888)

Sat, Jan 1 New Year’s Day Recovery Bubbalicious Dive into a seafood buffet. Seasonal Tastes, The Westin Beijing Chaoyang, 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District

New Year’s Day at the Great Wall

Little Jeep For ages 3-12. A Chinese version of Thomas the Tank Engine. In Chinese.

RMB 220, RMB 150, RMB 80. Jan 1-3. 1011.30am. China Children’s Art Theater, 64 Donganmen Dajie, west of Wangfujing (6521 1425) www.piaowutong.com, www.ccat.name (Chinese only)

Little Tadpole Search for His Mother For ages 3-12. A tadpole searches for his mother. In Chinese only. RMB 150, RMB 120, RMB 100, RMB 70, RMB 50.

Jan 1-3. 3-4pm. China Children’s Art Theater, 64 Donganmen Dajie, west of Wangfujing (6521 1425) www.ccat.name (Chinese only)

Sun, Jan 2 Little Jeep See Jan 1 listing.

Christmas goodies. Meet Santa and get a photo with the big guy: every Sat and Sun, 6.30-7.30pm. Gingerbread house: 10.30am9pm. Dec 1-25. Legendale Hotel Beijing (8511 3388) www.legendalehotel.com

Walking with Dinosaurs Walking with Dinosaurs, a theatrical event based on the award-winning BBC TV series, will premiere at Shanghai’s new MercedeBenz Arena on Jan 19–23 with 15 life-size dinosaurs. Element Fresh, the exclusive food and beverage partner, will hold a Dinosaur Kids coloring contest. Every week two kids will win tickets (three tickets allotted to each winner) and the top three winners can bring their parents on a backstage tour.

Also, as part of the kid’s set meal (RMB 68) at Element Fresh, kids will receive six dinosaur flash cards until Jan 3. Element Fresh program members can redeem 8,000 points for a pair of tickets. Element Fresh (friends@elementfresh)

Last Saturday Night at The Schoolhouse

Little Tadpole Search for His Mother

Every Saturday evening, sit by a roaring fire, open beams and antique Chinese textiles on the walls. Every Sat. (6162 6506, info@theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com) www. theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com

See Jan 1 listing.

Mon, Jan 3 Little Jeep

Festive Cooking Class

See Jan 1 listing.

Kids make Christmas cookies and more with skilled chefs. Parents can relax with coffee or tea. RMB 128+ child. Fee includes a class fee and a cup of delicious hot chocolate. And of course, kids get to take home their own creations. Every Sat in Dec. 3-5pm. Vasco’s, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing. RSVP at 138 1072 0018 or jason.chen@hilton.com.

Little Tadpole Search for His Mother See Jan 1 listing.

Tue, Jan 4 The American Philharmonic plays Harry Potter

The Library Festive Delights

For ages 7+ and adults. American Philharmonic, Sonoma County plays Gershwin and Strauss and music from Harry Potter. RMB 880-80. 7.30-9.30pm.

Poly Theatre, Poly Plaza, 14 Dongzhimen Nandajie (6500 1188 ext 5126/5127) http://en.piao.com.cn/beijing, http://apsonoma.org

The American New Sousa Band New Year Concert For ages 13+ and adults. Hear Stars and Stripes Forever and more. RMB 580-30.

7.30-9.30pm. http://en.piao.com.cn/beijing, www.newsousaband.com

All Month Solana Lakeside Christmas Market See the longest Christmas table in Beijing and pick up some gifts while you’re at it.

Every Sat and Sun in Dec. 11am-6pm.

Bldg 15, Solana (5905 1760, 5905 6906, 5905 6008, 5905 1780)

A gingerbread house stocked with Christmas treats. From Dec 1. 8am–10pm, The Library, Hilton Wangfujing (5812 8888 ext 8411, wangfujing@hilton.com) www. pentabeijing.com

Festive Fizztastic An appetizing selection of brunch traditions plus fresh seafood, assorted carvery, and more. Every Sun of Dec. RMB 388 + 15%, RMB 129 + 15% for ages 6-12. 11.30am3pm. Vasco’s, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, 89 Wangfujing Dongjie (5812 8888)

The Spa of Hilton Beijing Wangfujing For adults. The Winter Essentials spa package is a rejuvenating hot stone massage and nourishing facial (100min) for a special package price. RMB 780 + 15% (normal price RMB 1,060 + 15%). The Spa at Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, 6/F Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, (5812 8888 ext 8560)

Christmas at Legendale Hotel Beijing A gingerbread house will be stocked with

A simple buffet supper with a New year’s ham and live jazz. A supervised playroom for the kids. No a la carte. 11am-8pm. (6162 6506, inf o@theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com) www.theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com

New Year’s Day at Yu Cantonese dim sum brunch. RMB 388+ includes free flow drinks. 11:30am2:30pm. Yu, The Ritz-Carlton (5908 8111).

December 2010

beijingkids

17

Essentials New Arrivals

o t o l l e H Say t s e l l a m S Beijing’s

Adrian Ko nstantin L i a n Steffen German. B s orn to Cla udia a

Anya Nevis Randall

nd Wilko May 21 at Steffens o Beijing Un n ited Family Hospital.

Juliette Rose

New Zealander. Born to Emma McLean and Scott Randall on Aug 10 at Beijing United Family Hospital.

Asia De nis

French . Born to Véro nique a Hervé D nd enis on Amcare Jul 1 at Women ’s and C hildren ’s Hosp ita

Liam David Munce Australian. Born to Kylie and Cameron Munce on Sep 12 at Beijing United Family Hospital.

beijingkids

December 2010

an Sherid Brodie yte and h W e n rn to Lean

o at Scottish. B n on Feb 9 Ed Sherida ital. sp o H ily m ed Fa Beijing Unit

Angelina Vitale

l.

18

Want to share your new arrival with our readers? E-mail a photo (at least 1MB in size) of your little one with his or her full name, nationality, birth date, hospital and parents’ names to editor-kids@beijingkids.com. Due to space constraints, we can only publish photos of babies born after March 1, 2010.

Liu and Argentinean. Born to Sabrina at 14 Sep Roberto N. Vitale on l. pita Hos ily Fam Beijing United

Living Snapshot

Winter Shopping

Interview and photos by Kara Chin

Gordon Minton

Jane He

Jamie Proctor-Xu

Linda Kau

What do you do?

I’m a teacher.

Where are you from?

The UK How many kids do you have?

My daughters are 24 and 11 years old. My son is 6.

How long have you been living in Beijing?

Four years Where do you like to shop?

Decathlon for both me and the kids.

Where do you like to eat?

Mrs. Shanen’s Bagels, Hungry Horse, Michael’s Place and Blue Frog.

Do you have a favorite spot in Beijing?

Houhai Where is your outfit from?

Decathlon What is your favorite outdoor activity?

Cycling Do you have a favorite park?

Chaoyang Park

What do you do?

I’m a teacher.

Where are you from?

Beijing How many kids do you have?

I have one son; he is 4 years old.

Where do you like to shop for yourself?

Beijing New World Shopping Mall Where do you like to shop for your kids?

Online at Taobao, Jingdong (www.360buy.com) and Red Baby (www.honghaizi.net).

Where do you like to eat?

My son likes KFC. Do you have a favorite spot in Beijing?

Beijing Zoo with my son.

Describe your style.

Young and happy.

Where is your outfit from?

My coat is from Ginza Mall and the rest is from Beijing New World Shopping Mall.

What is your favorite indoor activity?

Playing video games.

What do you do?

I’m a scholar and a poet.

Where are you from?

The US How old are your kids?

My son is 7.

How long have you been living in Beijing?

Three years Where do you like to shop?

For myself and the kids, Yashow and Zara.

Where do you like to eat?

I like Ganges, the Korean Han Na Shan (汉拿山) in Wangjing and Kong Yiji (孔乙己).

Where is your outfit from?

My tights and hat are from JC Penny, my boots are from Silk Market and my dress is from Target.

Favorite outdoor activity.

Walking at Mutianyu and Yunmeng Shan, and yoga.

What is your favorite park: Purple Bamboo Park (Haidian District). In summer, the lotus flowers are gorgeous.

Favorite winter activity: Reading or eating hot pot.

What do you do?

I’m an entrepreneur.

Where are you from?

Los Angeles, in the US. How many kids do you have?

Two and I’m expecting. My son is 7 and my daughter is 3.

How long have you been living in Beijing?

Three months, but my husband has been working here for the past few years.

Where do you like to shop?

At Sanlitun Village and Solana.

Where do you like to eat?

Din Tai Fung and CRU Steakhouse. Recently, we went to Bellagio.

Where is your outfit from?

My coat is Banana Republic and my sweater is Ralph Lauren.

Favorite activities.

Walking and playing tennis.

Indoors, I like watching nature videos and playing Wii with the kids.

What do you like to do in the winter?

Skiing

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Living Noticeboard WAB’s Prized Teacher

Free Stuff!

Two lucky beijingk ids readers have a chance to win a Hilton Kids Cooking Class vo ucher.

Vouchers include a kids cooking class, a cup of ho t ch oc ola te, an d of co urs e, ch ild ren ge t to take their creation s home. E-mail the name of your favori te Beijin g family-friendly res taurant for your chance to win. Send your res ponses to imogen.kandel@be ijing-kids.com.

Hilton Kids Cooking Class held every Sa turday 3-5pm. Hilton Beijin g Wangfujing, 89 Wa ngfujing Dongjie, Dongchen int pa ic ox gotDis n-t no12 8888 tric t es (58 ol us ).

Klinko’s rob sto

Congratulations is in order for Western Academy of Beijing’s (WAB) High School Counselor, Peter Hauet. The National Association for College Counseling (NACAC) honored him with the prestigious Margaret E. Addis Award. The Addis Award recognizes a NACAC member who has provided the association with unique and outstanding service.

New Kids on the Block

Daystar Academy welcomes Kate and Terrence Millie to the school’s teaching team.

The Canadian couple have lived and taught in Beijing from 2005-2008 and have returned this semester as lead teachers at Daystar.

The Millie’s are avid travelers and have returned to Beijing via Bergamo, Italy where Terry studied Montessori pedagogy and Kate worked as an AMI course assistant.

YCIS Beijing Raises RMB 38,000

Students, teachers and parents at Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) raised RMB 38,000 for the school’s annual Terry Fox Foundation fundraiser. The non-profit organization raises money for cancer research.

ISB Hits an Ace

Cooking up a storm

Correction

tion of beijingkids, In the November 2010 edi int ern ati on al the g kin the art icle “Ta (p48-49) was kindergarten class ‘local’” advertorial. an as ed ntifi not clearly ide ijin gki ds be by Th is wa s no t wr itte n

by YCIS d plie sup s wa t ten editors. All con Beijing.

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International School of Beijing’s (ISB) season one varsity sports teams can pat themselves on the back after an impressive winning streak. The ISB boys rugby team was undefeated in round-robin play, winning their first Asia Pacific Activities Conference (APAC) championship. Meanwhile, the boys tennis team captured the APAC championship held in Seoul, Korea. In Hong Kong, the ISB boys volleyball team convincingly claimed their third APAC championship. To wrap things up, the ISB golf team took first place in the Autumn Beijing International Schools Championship at the Pine Valley Golf Club.

Counting Sheep Opens in Sanlitun

The Counting Sheep we know and love is back with new management, new stock and a new store. The faces behind this revamped baby-friendly enterprise are Eyee Hsu, host of CCTV-9’s “Up Close” and Michelle Hemsin, owner of Bodhi. Following the Sanlitun store’s grand opening party on December 5, they promise to bring us more greenfriendly baby merchandise and will even provide custom baby shower gifts. For Shunyi-siders, Counting Sheep is still selling their products inside Blueberry Owl. Sun-Thu 10am-7pm, Fri-Sat 10am-8pm. Counting Sheep Boutique. 17 Gongtibeilu (opposite Worker’s Stadium North Gate, inside the same building as Bodhi spa), Chaoyang District (6417 7622, ask@countingsheepboutique.com) www.countingsheepboutique.com

ep ng She

Counti ok for new lo A fresh

We Like … Klinko Kids’ Furniture

Established by Chadwick Parker, Klinko makes eco-friendly children’s furniture on the outskirts of Beijing. We chatted with the man behind the designs.

Why kid’s furniture?

When I was growing up, my mother operated a daycare center that had 70 kids a day. I loved looking at the creative kids’ furniture and playground catalogs that sales reps would give her. I’ve been pursuing and working in design related fields ever since. I believe that when children enjoy the place they are studying and playing in, it is hard to get them to stop.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF KLINKO KIDS FURNITURE, AND COUNTING SHEEP

How did Klinko get started?

Our company started with a volunteer interior design project: I was asked to design a creative classroom that would inspire Grade 1 Chinese students to learn English. I designed the entire classroom from top to bottom and began looking for a manufacturer that could create the custom desk pieces for the classroom.

What about community involvement?

We want to transform basic classrooms into truly amazing and creative spaces for students. We are currently working with Compassion for Migrant Children (CMC) on a project that takes this concept to an entire community.

Where can people buy your furniture from?

We are currently doing sales from our warehouse and delivering around Beijing. We have started approaching stores around Beijing and will hopefully have our kids furniture in multiple locations very soon.

Klinko products are available at BabyGro in Central Park. See Directory for listing. For more information, visit www.klinkokids.com.

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Health

Naturopath Melissa Rodriguez will put your immune system through boot camp

An Invincible You

The best ways to boost your immune system

by Annie Huang

A

s winter days get colder and our bodies become more prone to colds and flu, we should do what we can to protect ourselves and lower the risks of infection. Olivia Lee, a nutritionist and beijingkids columnist, and Melissa Rodriguez, a naturopathic doctor, offer some useful advice to help get us through another chilly season.

Basic Training

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Super Foods Fiber from a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits increases the overall production of friendly bacteria in our gut, which in turn produce chemicals to boost our immune system. Furthermore, fresh produce provide a broad range of plant-based phytochemicals that work together with food nutrients to help improve your immune system.

PHOTO: SUI

“The immune system requires a broad range of nutrients to keep it working, much like the way a concert requires a collection of instruments to make music,” explains Lee. “So this means that the immune system requires vitamins A all the way to E, plus minerals such as zinc and iron to supply our immune defenses.” Therefore, building a solid foundation for the immune system requires plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, and some protein everyday. Without a strong

nutritional foundation, anything else we take to boost the immune system will be ineffective.

Simply gorging on fruit and veg the moment you feel a cold coming on is not the answer. You must consume a broad range of healthy foods over a long term period in order for them to have a notable impact on our immunity. Why? Lee says it’s similar to “maintaining a strong wall defense flanked by alert troops, rather than building one just as the barbarian hordes approach.”

Health

Simply gorging on fruit and veg the moment you feel a cold coming on is not the answer

Lee believes that organic produce is the way to go, claiming that not only do organic foods aid a body's overall nutrient intake, their lower pesticide content also means that our body spends less energy trying to remove toxins from our system and more on repair, growth and defense.

For maximum immunity protection, one should avoid refined grains (such as white rice and white bread), sugar, oily or deep fried foods and alcohol – all of which tax the body, in turn diverting attention away from those all-important natural defenses.

Reinforcements In addition to a healthy diet, supplements can also help fight off any nasties. According to Rodriguez, these include antioxidants like Vitamin C or CoQ10, probiotics like those found in yogurt, as well as a variety of Western and Chinese herbs, such as echinacea, wild indigo, and licorice root. By affecting various steps of immune response, essential fatty acids found in flaxseed oil, fish oil and other unrefined, cold-pressed oils can also help to reduce inflammation.

If you are interested in taking Chinese herbal supplements, Rodriguez recommends going to see a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctor, who will take a full case history and then prescribe a combination of herbs tailored to your unique needs. Chinese herbs like astragalus (huangqi 黄芪), codonopsis (dangshen党参), and reishi mushrooms (lingzhi灵芝) are popular immunity boosters. She suggests the herbal supplement Fufang Yangshen Wangjiang Jiaonang (复方养 身王浆胶囊), sold at the well-known Beijing pharmacy Tongrentang.

If you do not speak Chinese but are keen to try TCM, it’s best to bring someone with you who can help translate.

Armed with Knowledge “Choosing the right supplement for each individual is something that I consider very important. An individual treatment plan is critical to achieve the best results,” says Rodriguez. “A person needs to ask themselves whether their symptoms have improved. Are you getting sick less frequently? Do you recover from colds and flu quicker? Overall, do you feel better?” Answering these questions for ourselves will signal whether or not these supplements are effective.

Before taking any supplements, you need to be aware of their sideeffects, warns Rodriguez. For example, licorice root is not suitable for those with hypertension as it can increase blood pressure and CoQ10

can cause nausea, diarrhea and heartburn for some. In short, see a qualified professional before taking any new supplements. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems or other serious medical conditions, consult your doctor.

Parents should be aware that certain supplements should not be given to children, including herbal tinctures or cough syrups with alcohol, supplements with artificial sweeteners, certain tonics such as ginseng which are too stimulating, high doses of vitamins or minerals (excess amounts are stored in the body and can be toxic), and Fufang Yangshen Wangjiang Jiaonang.

Fighting Fit Aside from diet and natural supplements, some basic lifestyle changes can also help. First, it's important to get enough sleep and manage your stress level, both of which directly affect your immune system.

Other things that lower our immune defenses such as sugar, caffeine, smoking, and alcohol, should be avoided. Finally, engaging in physical activity, even as basic as a brisk walk, has been shown to boost our immunity levels.

Providing you arm yourself with a healthy diet, a few choice supplements and a pair of walking shoes, those winter bugs will be no match for your mighty immune system this winter.

Olivia Lee: Nutritionist olivianutrition@gmail.com

Melissa Rodriguez: Naturopath International Medical Center-Beijing Room S106, Lufthansa Center Office Building, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District (6465 1561) www.drmelissarodriguez.com

Tongrentang Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic Daily 8.30am-9pm (pharmacy), 8.30am-noon and 2-5pm (clinic).

Mapletree Tower, 108 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District (5869 1171) 同仁堂.朝阳区建国路108号丰树大厦

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Health Ms. Nutrition

Food Flight

Eating healthy on long distance flights

T

raveling on airplanes with kids or babies can be a real trip – and not necessarily in a good way. As well as being at the mercy of the usual frustrations, you’re also dealing with a tired, cranky, hungry child. While most parents reach their destinations without giving much thought to the food along the way, a little planning can help keep your flight from feeling like a scene from a bad reality show.

Unless your child is an extremely frequent flier, a little bending of normal dietary rules, such as allowing an occasional juice drink, isn’t a problem. However, you might want to hold off on the airline child meals, as they tend to be loaded with sugary treats. On my last trip out of Beijing with my son, I made the mistake of requesting the child meal and ended up hurriedly hiding a huge bottle of sugary milk, a chocolate bar and gummy bears before he could see them. The main course resembled fast food: reconstituted mashed potatoes, a white bread roll, and chicken nuggets. It was a nutritional nightmare. Adult meals are palatable to most kids and they are likely to contain less sugar, though they can still be high in sodium.

Speaking of sodium, this brings us to concerns about dehydration.

It’s true that airplane humidity can be less than 20 percent, which are conditions that rival those found in the Gobi. Frequent sips of water will suffice for most. Remember that the dry lips and skin you and your children may experience on long flights is usually the result of exposure to dry air and not due to a lack of fluid intake; so there is no need to go over the top with the liquids and thereby forcing everyone to the cramped airplane toilets every hour. Simply pack a TSA-friendly three-ounce lotion and lip balm to protect tender skins, plus a covered cup or bottle to help with spill management.

With the dubious quality of airline food, packing a bag of your own snacks is a good idea. For an eight-hour flight that could turn into a twelve-hour misadventure, the last thing you want is to be caught empty handed with a hungry toddler in tow. Don’t overdo it; some finger foods that are not too sticky and can survive a few hours without refrigeration will do the trick. Do any necessary slicing and dicing ahead of time and pack snacks in easy-access plastic zip-up bags.

Healthy foods that travel well are fruits, dry graham crackers, granola, carrot sticks, hard cheeses and boiled eggs. For longer flights you can pack more meal-like foods. Peanut butter sandwiches are a good option as they don’t require any refrigeration. Just remember to check for allergies if you’re traveling with friends. It’s also worth checking that the passengers next to you are allergy-free.

Grain or bean salads, boiled dumplings, savory muffins and even Beijing snacks such as xianbing or shaobing are worth consideration.

Remember that the three-ounce limit for liquids, gels and similar substances has been known to apply to baby foods and is open to interpretation depending on destination and airline. Check with the airline you’re flying with before stocking up on any liquids. US-bound travelers can visit www.tsa.gov/travelers for any changes to the current rules. With any luck, you’ll be healthily snacking your way through your flights this Christmas.

Got a question? Singaporean Olivia Lee (olivianutrition@gmail.com) has an MSc in nutrition and provides nutrition counseling.

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You might want to hold off on the airline child meals, as they tend to be loaded with sugary treats

The Doc Is In

The Cold: Hard Facts Separating truth from fiction

M

ost likely you and your family have already been through a couple rounds of the common colds and flu. There are a lot of home remedies and folklore about preventing the common cold, but let’s review the best, evidence-based preventive tips.

Have you tried gargling daily with salt water? In a 2005 study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, people who gargled up to three times a day had a 40 percent decrease in respiratory illness and symptoms during the winter. Gargling is also a simple way to help improve sore throat pain and swelling, and loosens up mucus.

Another preventative method is taking a daily supplement of vitamin D. Daily year-round doses of vitamin D (400 IU for children) are already recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that school kids who took a higher dose of vitamin D during flu season had a 42 percent decrease in influenza infections.

I recommend 1,000 IU daily for adults.

Don’t forget the simple things. Getting a good night’s sleep can decrease your risk of infections. In a fascinating experiment published in 2009 in The Archives of Internal Medicine, researchers injected the common cold rhinovirus into people’s nostrils and measured who got infected, then compared this to their sleeping habits. Those who slept only six to seven hours a night were three times more likely to get cold symptoms than those who had eight or more hours of sleep.

Another commonsense preventive measure is hand washing. Last year’s H1N1 scare raised awareness across China, and it’s much more common now to see alcohol gel hand-wash dispensers in schools, malls and restaurants. This really does help cut down on passing on infections. People shouldn’t waste their money on anti-microbial soaps as there’s little evidence of their effectiveness, and they will likely lead to a worsening the serious problem of antibiotic resistance. Simple soap and water also does the trick, but I prefer alcohol gels as they work faster and wipe out a larger percentage of viruses and bacteria.

What about the commonly used vitamin C, echinacea, and zinc?

The best evidence so far is still fairly conflicting, and the online Natural Medicines Database lists all three as “likely safe” but “possibly ineffective”.

Another major key to prevent the winter flu (but not the common cold) is the annual flu vaccine. As previously mentioned in this column, the vaccine can lower your chances of infection, as well as prevent you from infecting family members and colleagues.

It’s not 100 percent effective, but I feel the benefits far outweigh the risks. Those of you in contact with infants under 6 months of age should seriously consider getting the vaccine for yourselves as infants are most vulnerable to the flu, and are not eligible for the vaccine. It’s not too late to get the flu vaccine, as flu season can run into late spring. All expat clinics have the vaccine in stock, which is usually available at a small charge of around RMB 120.

Those who slept only six to seven hours a night were

three times more likely to get cold

Need more info? American Dr. Richard Saint Cyr works at IMC and runs a blog, www.myhealthbeijing.com December 2010

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Dining

Dining Out

Rumi Named after the great Persian poet of the 13th Century, Rumi is situated in the heart of Sanlitun. As soon as you walk into this crisply white restaurant, you can’t help but notice the plentiful natural light courtesy of the floor-to-ceiling windows. This, combined with the exotic Persian background music, has the effect of taking you far away from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets outside. The centerpiece of this large dining space is the three giant mirrors inscribed with Rumi’s poetry. Voted “Outstanding Middle Eastern” in The Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards, Rumi offers a wide selection of delicious Persian fare. The kids’ menu is quite impressive; however, we recommend bypassing the perennial kids’ favorites - milkshakes, burgers and fries - and opting for the chicken kebab (RMB 30), salmon kebab (RMB 49), or beef koobideh (RMB 28). Stews such as gheimeh bademjan (RMB 28) – lamb and eggplant stewed in tomato sauce – are popular choices for picky eaters. For dessert, kids can try the Persian shole zard (saffron rice pudding). On weekdays, the restaurant offers lunch buffet at RMB 88 for adults and half price for kids.

For those unfamiliar with Persian cuisine, this is a great way to sample a range of dishes and pick your favorites. The small playroom, which the owners’ daughter helped design, contains a table, stools and boxes of toys where kids can entertain themselves for hours on end, or at least the length of a quick meal. There are also private and semi-private dining areas on the second floor, ideal for family or work functions. Annie Huang Daily 11.30am-midnight. 1A Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District (8454 3838) 朝阳区工体北路甲1号兆龙饭店对面

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PHOTO: MISHKA FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Nadia (11) enjoys the salmon kebab

Top 5 Places to …

Sip Hot Chocolate Bon Moment Chocolate lovers will adore this lovely café tucked away in the heart of Shunyi. Rich dark chocolate mixed with steamed milk, served with a side of homemade marshmallows, make their signature hot chocolates a guilty pleasure. Customers can sample a bite of ganache, tempting the purchase of a 24-piece box. The café also boasts a variety of chocolates and desserts.

Daily 9am-6.30pm. 9 Kaifa Jie (600m north of New Exhibition Center), Xibaixin Zhuang, Shunyi District (8049 6496) 瑞士东方.顺义区西白辛庄开发街9号(新国展向北 600公尺)

Café Zarah Hang out with the hipsters and yummy mummies at one of Beijing’s most pleasant cafés. Rotating art exhibitions set the stage for a range of good eats and drinks. Parents can expect an excellent espresso, families will love the German-style breakfasts, and kids will sigh with relief as they wrap their hands around a nice warm mug o’ cocoa.

Daily 9.30am-midnight. 42 Gulou Dongdajie, Dongcheng District (8403 9807) 东城区鼓楼东大街42号

Comptoirs de France Arguably the best hot chocolate in town, why not pair your tasty beverage with a bite-sized mini tart or almond croissant? While there, stock up on those old-time Christmas favorites including Yule logs, chocolate Santas, gingerbread men and houses, and German Christmas stollen (sweet raisin bread).

French Cultural Center (Alliance Française de Pekin) An often neglected Beijing fun spot, the French Cultural Center is packed with family-friendly features that even non-French speakers can enjoy. Parents can read a newspaper in the lending library while little ones browse French story books – with so many picture books available, language won’t be a problem.

Meanwhile, the café offers Paris-grade coffee, sandwiches, croissants, and of course, deliciously hot chocolates.

18 Gongtixilu, Chaoyang District (6553 2678) 北京法语培训中心.朝阳区工体西路18号

Daily 7am-8.30pm. 1/F, East Lake Club, 35 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District (6461 1525) 法派.东城区东直门外大街35号东湖俱乐部1层 See Directory for more locations.

PHOTO: SEBASTIAN MARY OF FLICKR

Colibri Café Nestled in the center of the trendy Village North, the main event at Colibri is their range of artisan cupcakes (RMB 23) - baked in-store using fine ingredients and topped with soft butter cream. For the kids, pair one of these sweet delights with a hot chocolate. For moms and dads, try a toasted panini and finish up with a rich espresso coffee.

Daily 10am-10pm. LG51, Sanlitun Village North, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District 蜂鸟.朝阳区三里屯路11号三里屯Village北区地下1层

If you like these hot chocolate locales, try: Eden Juice Bar, Element Fresh, Blue Frog, Starbucks and Fisheye Cafe.

See Directory for listings.

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A Chilli Christmas

Three spicy sauces to warm you up this season text by Xiyun Yang; photos by Mishka Family Photography

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Dining Food For Thought

Spicy Fragrant Olive Oil Great for: drizzling over pizza and pasta, dressing salads, marinating meats. Use any combination of the following herbs and spices, or add your own.

I

don’t know what it is about eating that brings out my macho, competitive side - the side that leads to irrational one-upmanship. I’m generally a facials and sky high stilettos kind of girl, but when it comes to food, I revel in the eating, cooking and loving of that which others shrink from. I embrace the grotesque and the inappropriate; I’m just waiting on the sidelines until someone deep fries a panda. Endangered?

Whatever. Let’s talk about the real issue: tenderizing. This personality trait surges forward most often when matters of spice come into the picture. Put a bowl of chilli sauce in front of me and suddenly I’m challenging the waiter to a game of who loses feeling in their mouth first. No one insults my manhood by insinuating that I’ve met a pepper I couldn’t handle.

Until of course, the day I did. Actually, it was more of a gradual process. One fateful Chongqing hot pot season (November through March), my stomach lining, after years of abuse, packed up and went home, leaving intestinal carnage in its wake. I was no longer biologically equipped to process the kind of heat I once reveled in. I flamed out early in my eating career. I had to stop goading unsuspecting dinner companions into spice-related life and death situations. I mourned.

As a consolation prize, however, I began to focus on the flavors of chilli peppers. Instead of pain or no pain, I began working with grassy, citrusy fresh chilli peppers and smoky, caramelized roasted peppers, and nutty fried dried chilli seeds. Chilli related sauces are simple and versatile. Make a few and they keep well in your fridge. The dearth of non-Chinese ready-made chilli sauces in Beijing is lamentable, so since ‘tis the season, steep some flavored pepper oil, put them in a few pretty bottles with ribbons, and you can Martha Stewart your way out of buying real presents for people. Health magazines even tell me that the spicy element of chilli peppers prevents belly fat, which, like all scientifically minded people, I choose to believe is true since it’s convenient. Plus, I found my macho-ness coming back by stewing my own pot of hot sauce. The cooking process comes with its own warning: Don’t put your face over the pot and breathe the vapors! Trust me.

4 dried red peppers 4 Sichuan peppers 1 branch of rosemary 1 garlic clove Olive oil, however much your bottle holds Place all the ingredients except the oil in a heat-proof jar or bottle.

Heat the oil in a pan until it feels slightly warm when you hold your hand over it. Pour the oil into the bottle. Screw the top on and leave for two days before using.

Simple Chilli Paste Great for: thickening soups and pasta sauces, spreading onto sandwiches, marinating meats. ¼ cup olive oil, plus a bit more 20 long red chilli peppers, leave the seeds according to the level of spice you want 3 shallots 3 garlic cloves Salt Pepper Pour the oil into a blender. Roughly chop the chilli peppers, shallots, and garlic and place them all into the blender. Blend until the mixture becomes a smooth paste, adding more oil if necessary. Empty the mixture into a frying pan. Add salt and pepper to taste. Fry the paste until fragrant (about five to ten minutes), stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking. Leave the paste to cool then place it into little jars or pots. Cover with a layer of oil and refrigerate. Keeps for a month.

Roasted Green Pepper Hot Sauce Great for: everything!

500g tiger or Thai chilli peppers 1 cup vinegar Salt Water A pinch each of ground cumin, coriander and cinnamon Roast chilli peppers whole, directly over the flame on your stovetop, until they are a little blackened on one side. Put on some gloves to avoid getting chili on your hands. Using a knife, scrape off the blackened skin and cut off the tops of the chilies. You won’t get all the blackened skin off, but that’s fine. Place chilli peppers, vinegar, salt and spices into a saucepot. Bring to the boil, then reduce heat to a simmer for 20 minutes. Do not put your face over the pot. Transfer the mixture into a blender. Blend, adding water until the paste comes to the consistency of hot sauce. Place the sauce in a jar. Keeps for a week and a half refrigerated. Freezes well.

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Playing What's Fun In

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Shunyi

A village vibe on the doorstep of Chaoyang text by Annie Huang; photos by Judy Zhou

L

ocated northeast of Beijing, Shunyi is home to one of Beijing’s largest expat communities.

It’s a popular destination for families seeking organic farms, fruit picking expeditions, golf courses and fishing resorts. A 45-minute drive from Downtown, Shunyi is an easy getaway for families who crave a village atmosphere and want to get away from the rough and tumble of urban life. Two subway lines (lines 14 and 15) are currently under construction, and will soon provide city-dwellers the chance to venture out without having to contend with Beijing’s traffic.

Once in this idyllic suburb, munch on a bagel at Mrs. Shanen’s Bagels, peruse one of Shunyi’s bookshops, shop for kid’s dress-up clothes or brush up on your Chinese astrology at the Yin Yang Community Center.

So pack up the little ones and discover some of the area’s hidden and not-so-hidden fun spots.

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tart your Shunyi adventure by having a hearty breakfast at the popular Mrs. Shanen’s Bagels (1). The hub of Beijing’s best bagels, you’ll find a wide assortment of flavors to suit every palate, as well as a range of artisan breads, pizzas, sandwiches, cakes, cookies and an extensive breakfast menu. Organic tea and coffee, as well as other products from the owner’s organic venture, Green Cow Farm, are available. Adjacent to the restaurant is a children’s playroom in the style of a miniature Chinese kitchen.

Next, head to Pinnacle Plaza, one of the oldest plazas in Shunyi’s relatively short history. Shunyi Bookshop (2) is well worth a visit for its extensive selection of kid’s books, including DK Eyewitness, the Brain Quest series, and the popular Twilight series. Pinnacle Plaza also has a variety of other shops: Tot to Teen for kid’s clothing and Kids Plus for fun dressup clothing, artisan bread shop Boulangerie Nanda for wholesome baked goods, Lohao City for organic food, as well as a Jenny Lou’s supermarket for foreign food products.

For lunch, you can’t go wrong with the family-friendly Little Italy (3) in Pinnacle Plaza, which serves reliable Italian fare in a relaxing setting. The kids’ menu includes pasta, fish fingers, burgers, and milkshakes.

The restaurant features a children’s playroom, which is enclosed in soundproof glass to make the dining experience more serene.

After lunch, walk northwest for ten minutes along Yuyang Lu (榆阳路) to River Garden Club for some ice skating action. Ice Zone (4) opens at noon and the entrance fee includes skate rental. It also offers skating classes for children of different age groups (from toddlers to 14-year-olds) including jump and spin classes, private lessons, and hockey (training

Playing What's Fun In and competitive) for both kids and adults.

Downstairs, you can find a decent selection of kids’ books at Chaterhouse Booktrader (5).

If you still have some energy, continue to the nearby Euro Plaza, just around the corner from Pinnacle Plaza for more shopping and dining options. A warm, spacious Comptoirs de France (6) is ideal for leisurely sipping an afternoon tea or coffee. Indulge in a selection of freshly baked bread and pastries alongside tempting chocolates and ice cream. Children will beg for a cup of rich, silky smooth hot chocolate to shake off the winter chill. On a warmer day, the outdoor seating area is great for enjoying the sun.

The Yin Yang Community Center (7) is definitely worth a visit. The center offers arts, Chinese culture, and well-being courses each day of the week, covering topics such as the ancient form of Chinese astrology (bazi), pilates and the spiritual healing techniques of reiki. Visit their website for the full range of classes and workshops available. Their bookshop and café makes for a nice pit stop should you need it.

Finish the day by visiting The Orchard (8) for dinner. Their menu of Western food has an emphasis on locally sourced, organic produce. The setting is peaceful, with fruit trees leading up to the front door, while the back door opens up to a lake and a big outdoor activity space. The interior is tastefully decorated with a mix of Chinese and Western furniture and paintings. It also has a colorful indoor playroom with toys, videos and cushy chairs. If the clan is too tired to make it through dinner, their sumptuous Sunday brunch is a great alternative; be sure to book ahead, as tables fill up fast. After a full day of feasting on wholesome food, browsing through books, ice skating and brushing up on Chinese culture, it’s time to head home.

Mrs. Shanen’s Bagels 单太太贝谷面包房 Sun-Thu 7.30am-8pm; Fri-Sat 7.30am-8.30pm.

Kaifa Jie, Xibaixinzhuang (next to Capital Paradise), Houshayu , Shunyi District (8046 4301) 顺义区后沙峪西白辛庄开发街5号(紧邻名都园) Shunyi Bookshop 顺义书店 Daily 10am-5pm. 606 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District (8046 1276)顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场606号 Tot to Teen 红马车儿童用品商店 Daily 9am-7pm. 703 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District (8046 4419) 顺义区天竺房地产开发区荣祥广 场703号 Kids Plus 北京格林塔儿童用品商店 Daily 9am-7pm. 701 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District (8046 4572) 顺义区天竺房地产开发区荣祥广 场701号 Little Italy 小意大利 Kids menu RMB 15-30 per dish. Daily 10am10pm. Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District (8046 4679/80) 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场813号 Ice Zone 冰点地带 RMB 50 (weekends) and RMB 30 (weekdays) and includes skate rental.

Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun noon-4pm; Mon, Wed, Thu noon-5pm. 2/F River Garden Clubhouse, 7 Yuyang Lu, Houshayu, Shunyi District (8046 6092) www.icezone.china.com 顺义区裕京花园 会所2楼(入口在裕京路)北京顺义榆阳路7号 Chaterhouse Booktrader Daily 10.30am-7.30pm. 1/F River Garden Clubhouse, 7 Yuyang Lu, Houshayu, Shunyi District (8046 6211) www.chaterhouse.com.cn 顺义区后沙峪乡榆阳路7号 Comptoirs de France 法派 Daily 7am-8.30pm. L-111, Euro Plaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District (8046 6309) www.fapai1855.com 顺义区裕翔路99号天竺镇欧陆广场L111室 Yin Yang Community Center 易.阴阳社区中心 Mon-Sat 8am-8pm, Sun 8am-5pm. The First Courtyard, Hegezhuang Village (across from The Orchard), Chaoyang District (6431 2108) 朝阳区崔各庄乡何各庄村一号院(果园对面） The Orchard 果园 Sunday brunch RMB 180 for adults, RMB 80100 for ages 4 and up. Tue-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6-9pm. Sunday brunch 12-3pm. From Jingshun Lu, turn left (west) at Shunbai Lu Intersection, (turn at the driveway just west of the Hegezhuang Village Sign), Shunyi District (6433 6270) www.the-orchard.com.cn 顺义区崔各庄 乡何各庄村(过何各庄村路标往南转)

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The Frosting On the Cake

Lollipop Bakery shares their Christmas cupcake recipes

L

exie Morris, the owner of Lollipop Bakery, has spent the past year bringing cupcakesas-they-should-be to Beijing’s community of sweet tooth traditionalists. Originally from London, Morris left her corporate life behind and now spends most of her days (and nights) in the kitchen, whipping up batches of earthly delights with flavors like Red Velvet, Spiced Carrot, and of course, her signature Earl Grey. “I absolutely love that my office is a bakery. The smells that waft out of our ovens every day are simply divine.” So take a cue from Lollipop Bakery and spend a day baking with the kids. Imogen Kandel

Classic Vanilla Cupcakes Makes 18 cupcakes

1¾ cups flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 1 cup milk 1 tsp vanilla 8 tbsp butter, room temperature 1¼ cups white sugar 2 large eggs In one bowl, sift the flour, baking powder and salt together and put aside. In a second bowl, mix the milk and vanilla together and put to one side.

In a third bowl, use an electric beater and beat butter on high until it is white and creamy. Add sugar to the butter and beat until it’s well incorporated. Then add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each addition to make sure it doesn’t curdle. Slowly add one-third of the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Then gradually add one-third of the milk and vanilla mixture, beating until well incorporated. Add another third of the flour mixture, followed by another third of the milk mixture. Stop to scrape down the bowl as needed. Add the remaining flour mixture, followed by the remaining milk mixture, and beat until combined. Fill cupcake cases until 0 they’re two-thirds full. Bake in oven at 180 C for 20 minutes, or until a chopstick inserted into the center of the cupcake comes out clean. Top with buttercrème frosting.

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PHOTOS: SUI

Tip: Don’t overbeat the mixture, it prevents the base from becoming light and fluffy.

Playing Inside

Gingerbread Cupcakes 2 tsp freshly ground ginger 2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp freshly ground nutmeg ½ tsp allspice ½ tsp freshly ground cloves ¾ cup brown sugar ½ cup white sugar Use the Classic Vanilla Cupcake recipe (p34), but replace the 1¼ cups white sugar with ¾ cup brown sugar and ½ cup of white sugar. Follow the remaining steps of the Classic Vanilla recipe, and as a final step add the ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and ground cloves. Bake, frost and decorate as normal.

Tip: For added moisture, use buttermilk instead of milk.

Candy Cane Cupcakes 1½ tsps peppermint extract 2 tbsp red food colouring Use the Classic Vanilla Cupcake recipe (p34).

As a final step add the peppermint extract to the batter. Then, divide the batter into two equal batches, adding the red food colouring to one batch. When filling the cupcake cases, alternate with spoonfuls of red and white batter until they’re two-thirds full. Try to keep the amounts of batter as even as possible, and plop each alternating spoonful right in the center of the cupcake case. Bake, frost and decorate as normal.

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Simple Buttercrème Frosting

Makes 3 cups of icing

1 cup butter or margarine, room temperature 1 tsp vanilla essence 4 cups sifted icing sugar 2 tbsp milk In large bowl, cream butter with electric mixer. Then add vanilla. Gradually add sugar, one cup at a time, beating well on a medium speed. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl often. When all of the sugar has been mixed in, the icing will appear dry. Add milk and beat at medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. Keep the bowl covered with a damp cloth until ready to use.

Lollipop Bakery To place an order: (135 5277 2683, cupcakes@lollipopbakery.cn) www.lollipopbakery.cn

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Lollipop Bakery cupcakes are also available at Crepanini and Fisheye Cafe in Sanlitun Village South, and Secrets From Africa in Shunyi District. See Directory for listings.

December 2010

Spiced Apple Cupcakes 4 cups apple, peeled and finely diced 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp freshly grated ginger pinch of freshly grated nutmeg sprinkle of freshly ground cloves Use the Classic Vanilla Cupcake recipe (p34). As a final step, add the apple, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves. Bake as normal. After the cupcakes have been frosted, sprinkle a couple teaspoons of cinnamon as a final flourish.

Playing Family Travels

From Beijing to the Big Apple

Marianne Cecilia and

Park at Central

The Chans’ tour of New York City The Travelers Jerry Chan, his wife Cecilia and their daughter Marianne (3).

The Plan The Chans flew to New York City (NYC) to attend a wedding and tacked on a few extra days to tour the city. Their itinerary included a stroll through Central Park, a ride on the Staten Island Ferry, a visit to Times Square (as well as the world’s biggest Toys R’ Us store therein), a visit to the Museum of Natural History and walking tours of Union Square, Washington Square Park, the World Trade Center and a wedding at the Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn Harbor in Long Island.

The Cost The Chans booked roundtrip plane tickets with Air China from Beijing to NYC with a return flight out of Los Angeles for around RMB 29,000, including tax. They stayed at the Marrakech Hotel (www.marrakechhotelnyc.com) on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. A room was booked through the travel bidding site Priceline.com at a rate of USD 170 a night before tax (about 15 percent of the room rate).

The Best Part Central Park was the perfect family outing. Just a ten-minute walk from the hotel, the 87sqkm park includes spectacular vistas, gardens, meadows, lakes and ponds, playgrounds galore and even a zoo, which was Marianne’s favorite part of the trip.

At the Mus eum of N atural His tory

Other Tips “Hop-On-Hop-Off” double-decker bus tours stop at major sites (Times Square, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty) throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Prices vary according to the route, but average USD 50-80, with discounts for kids. If your schedule permits, the Bronx Zoo (www.bronxzoo.com) is a family-friendly must.

Comprising 264 acres, it is the largest metropolitan zoo in the US and has animals, outdoor exhibition spaces, a monorail and an aquarium.

The Worst Part Upon arrival, the Chans were dismayed at the hotel’s decrepit state: shoddy rooms and cramped “Queen”-size beds, lack of elevators and the unprofessional staff. Because of Priceline’s policy, the Chans were locked into their hotel. At least, they didn’t find any bedbugs.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE CHAN FAMILY

Food While the Big Apple doesn’t come cheap, the city is filled with delis, diners and food stands with an assortment of relatively inexpensive eats. The Chans enjoyed breakfast at the Hot & Crusty Bagel Café near their hotel, as well as delicious pizza and hot dogs around town. For food, NYC has it all; the Chans even sampled Cambodian sandwiches at Num Pang near Union Square, courtesy of Jerry’s cousin Rosie. The average cost of a meal for three was around USD 25-30 excluding tip (which ranges from 10-20 percent).

Getting Around New York’s famous subway system (www.mta.info/metrocard/ mcgtreng.htm) is the most efficient way to get around town and a ride costs USD 2.25 per trip. For discounted rides, purchase one of the unlimited ride passes that range from one day to 30 days. Free subway maps are available at the stations. Subway lines generally run up and down the city, but buses will take you crosstown. Bus and subway transfers are free within two hours of the first MetroCard swipe.

A ride from JFK airport to any destination in the city is charged at a flat fee of USD 45 (excluding tip). Otherwise, the minimum taxi fare is USD 2.50 and the rate goes by USD .40 each additional 1/5 mile (0.32 km) or two minutes. An additional USD .50 is charged for rides taken between 8pm-6am.

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Playing Family Travels

vel via shikara and Wesley tra Kasha, Berkley

Houseboats and Hiking in Kashmir The Smiths Explore India The Travelers Wesley Rotary Smith, his wife Kasha, and their daughter Berkley (1).

The Plan In the decade since Wesley had studied in India, he always regretted the missed opportunity to take in Kashmir, which is hailed as a paradise on Earth by Indians. After some online research, the Smiths learned two key things: houseboats are a great option, and the military occupation of Kashmir is in still in full effect, as it has been for decades.

The Smiths flew from Beijing to Srinagar with a stopover in Hong Kong and an overnight stay in New Delhi. Direct flights between Beijing and New Delhi are about eight hours, and flying from Delhi to Srinagar takes about one hour. Once in Srinagar, the Smiths immediately found their way to Dal Lake and a deluxe houseboat with a view of the entire valley, as well as several temples and mosques.

Accommodation Houseboat living is very relaxing. Rides in a shikara - or a small, flatbottom boat not unlike a gondola from Venice - around the lake are amazing at all hours of the day. In the early mornings, they spotted huge, floating farmer’s markets and kids dressed in British uniforms paddling to school. Throughout the day, the lake is a hunting ground

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Sightseeing On the banks of the winding, glacial Dal Lake, the city of Srinagar offers the flowery Mughal Gardens and a collection of other picturesque ruins, including an area referred to as Old City. Other curiosities in this most devout community include holy pilgrimage sites of Shiva worshipers, beautiful Kashmiri Sikh temples, a magnificent shrine that is said to house the hair of Muhammad, and a Christian Church that is over 130 years old. There is absolutely nothing around Dal Lake and Srinagar that doesn’t make for a great photograph.

Shopping in this part of Kashmir can also be relaxing. Hill villagers have formed cooperatives to bring their wares to the lake and will call from their rowboats, informing listeners of their stock: some of the finest embroidery, silk rugs, and leather goods you can imagine. The name of the game is pick-your-price and don’t be offended by a ridiculously high initial offer from the salesman: It’s all about bargaining.

In Search of Adventure In spite of how nice the houseboat was, going on an adventurous excursion was too tempting to refuse. The Smiths spent one day on horseback, riding up a trail that eventually lead to Khyber Pass, a 53km passage through the mountains of Hindu Kush. Along the way, they met farmers, shepherds and villagers. The views were amazing,

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE SMITH FAMILY

The Cost For two adults and one toddler, the overall cost was RMB 3,300 (plane tickets excluded). This price includes a six-day stay in a houseboat, meals, excursions, and several boat rides.

for eagles and kingfishers. By late afternoon, the valley skies are at their deepest blue and the sunsets are inspiring. At night, hundreds of houseboats compete for the most spectacular “curb appeal” with their lamps and torches.

Taking a brea ther at a m ountain pass

er Pass horse to Khyb Traveling by

and the horses did all the work. The next day, they hiked to a glacial mountain that remains snow-capped throughout the year and is high enough to make their ears pop more than once. Daytrips like these offer stunning views and fresh air, but camping trips of any length can be arranged for more adventurous hikers.

The Best Part Berkley loves the water and thoroughly enjoyed staying on a houseboat.

The houseboat owners arranged all trips, guides, transportation, meals and more. Thus, the family never opened their wallets after negotiating everything in advance.

The Worst Part The presence of military personnel and the resulting curfew meant that the entire city was closed for two days during their visit. As luck would have it, they hardly noticed because the houseboat staff took care of every little desire they had. In fact, they were too hospitable, overfeeding them and checking up on them constantly.

Food Kashmiri food is incredible, especially the tea and mango juice. Local bread and cheese are a daily must-have, and nothing was ever too spicy or caused an upset stomach.

Tips Since they traveled after peak season (March-October), they did not book anything in advance and it was a wise choice. There were hundreds of vacant houseboats and in the end, the Smiths had a 3-bedroom houseboat to themselves. Furthermore, the ability to choose in person means you have bargaining power by grouping the cost of accommodation, meals, and daytrips into an all-inclusive price. Check out www.indiamike.com before you travel to India for some great tips.

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Playing Day Tripper

Tower Power Silver Mountain Pagoda Forest

by Michael Arnold; adapted from Beijing Excursion Guide

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in this serene setting

V

eiled within the verdant woodlands that flourish in the lee of Silver Mountain, the ruins of the once great Fahua Temple are the swan song of an age when the whole surrounding region was sacred Buddhist ground. Once, over seventy temples occupied the valley and the slopes of this mountain. Now, a handful of ornately decorated pagodas are all that’s left of this lost order.

In these times, local government funding agencies allocated one million yuan annually to restore and maintain this genuinely delightful valley park, and it has been money well spent. Developers have made obvious efforts to ensure that cleanliness is upheld – park restrooms are exemplary – and the artifact restoration work has been subtle and respectful. Tourist areas aside, local residents of the charming Humen Township at the foot of the mountain are visibly unaffected by the industry, and thrive cheerfully in humble agricultural surrounds. This provides an engaging option for visitors who wish to stay over with a local family – inquire in town for details.

There are many squat dagobas scattered throughout the vale, but

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the focus of the park is the array of five Jin dynasty towers on the scoured foundations of the Fahua Temple, known at the time of their construction as the Da Yan Sheng Temple – then an eminent place of Buddhist learning. The towers contain the ashes of prominent monastic teachers of the age.

Silver Mountain itself makes for a good hour’s climb for the fit and the enthusiastic, and provides good views of the pagoda forest and surrounding areas. The path to the top, while occasionally steep, is well marked – and stairways have been cut in for difficult slopes. The perspective will give visitors insight into the seclusion that the valley enjoys – the one factor that has protected the ruins throughout the decline of the dynasties. This isolation does make the park slightly tricky to get to from Beijing in comparison to the other better-known attractions nearby – the Huanghuacheng Great Wall and the Ming Tombs – but the peaceful air and the idyllic scenery make this a tranquil and relaxing alcove for a day’s visit.

Playing Day Tripper The towers contain the ashes of prominent monastic teachers of the age

PHOTOS: MICHAEL ARNOLD

Silver Mountain Daily 8am-4pm. RMB 15 (Nov-Mar); RMB 20 (Apr-Oct). Xingshou Town, Changping District (8972 6426, 8972 6425) 银山塔林，昌平区, 兴寿镇西湖村 Getting there Bus: The fastest bus route is the 845 express (RMB 9) from Xizhimen (the stop is between Xizhimen and Chegongzhuang subway stations on Xizhimen Nandajie) north to Changping Dongguan - a taxi from there should cost RMB 100-200 (RMB 300 roundtrip), or a bumpy 50-minute ride on the 31 minibus is RMB 4 (bus stops are unmarked, but wait at the stop where you get off the 845 and go in the same direction).

Other buses to Changping Dongguan are 345, 345 express and 919. Route 31 takes you to Humen Town, from which it’s a 10-minute walk straight up the main road to the park gate. The last bus back leaves at 4.30pm for Route 31.

Car: Take Anli Lu (安立路) from Anhui Qiao (安惠桥) on North Fourth Ring Road to Lishuiqiao (立水桥) and eventually merge onto Litang Lu (立汤路) heading north. Pass through the Daliushu Roundabout (大柳树环 岛) in Xingshouzhen (兴寿镇), following the sign to Silver Mountain Pogoda Forest (银山塔 林). Parking is RMB 5 for cars and RMB 10 for larger vehicles. Approx Distance: 60km

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I Want to Be a Filmmaker Qiao Li tells stories through a lens

F

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PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU

ilmmaking has always been in the stars for Chinese-Australian Qiao Li. At the age of 14, this filmmaker began creating home videos, including a short stop-motion animation starring none other than G.I. Joe. Born in Shandong and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Li studied directing at the Victorian College of the Arts, School of Film and Television. Upon graduating in 2006, he moved to Beijing where he co-founded the boutique film and video production company The Bag Ladies.

His first feature film Ring Roads was shot in 2007, in collaboration with two other directors. Li’s show reels includes music videos, short films and commercials in Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and around China. At the moment, he is in post-production for a feature documentary entitled No Anaesthetic about the Melbourne punk band Backyard Surgeons.

After completing the filming of No Anaesthetic, Li met with students from Yew Chung International School of Beijing to discuss the finer points of filmmaking and why making a good film is like telling a good joke. Kara Chin

Learning When I Grow Up

“You take all of the things that you

love

and bring it all together”

Glenn Pang, 9, Singapore What do you like about creating a movie?

I like everything about my job. You get to meet new people and go to new places. The coolest thing is that whatever you can think of, you can try to make. There are no limits.

And it’s really cool to learn about all of the technical stuff.

Andrew Fu, 10, Canada How many steps are there in making a movie?

A film starts with an idea. Once you have an idea, you need people to help you make the movie. Then you have to find money. Then you have to shoot the film with actors. Then you have to edit the film, which is putting everything together. The last step is getting people to see it.

Aubree Frost, 10, US What is the favorite movie that you made?

Once I moved to China, I made my own feature film called, Ring Roads. And that’s one of my favorite films; it’s very personal. It’s a story about foreigners and Chinese living in Beijing. That was my first big film and I’m very proud of it.

Kanbra Aguayo, 10, US Why do you like being a director?

The director says what kind of clothes actors wear, where the camera will be, what the building should look like and what the explosion should look like. A director makes all of the creative decisions and that’s what I love. You get to draw pictures, tell stories, listen to music – you take all of the things that you love and bring it all together.

Ann Liang, 10, Australia Did your job start off well?

Once I graduated, The Children of the Silk Road was the first film that I worked on.

There were important and famous people on the movie set. I was nervous, but the great thing about working on a set is that everyone is like family. Everyone is there with the same purpose. So very quickly, you make friends and then you don’t get nervous anymore.

Will Yang, 10, US What is your biggest failure and how did it make you feel?

My biggest failure doesn’t have to do with money; I haven’t lost a million dollars yet.

It’s more about telling a story. Have you ever told a joke and someone didn’t get it? It’s not a good feeling. I think my biggest failure is when I make films and tell stories, and people don’t get it or it doesn’t work properly. But you learn from your mistakes.

Phoebe Cramp, 10, UK What was a film that you made that you liked the least?

When I look at the films I made when I was 14 years old, I’m a little embarrassed by them.

But it’s good to see how you’ve grown. In everything that I’ve done, even if they’re not perfect, there’s always something in there that I’m really proud of.

Bowen Liu, 10, Canada Is being a director hard?

It’s not easy; it’s very tiring. You have to be creative when you don’t have a lot of time, you have to be able to deal with people, and you have to work long hours. You go home, sleep for a couple of hours and keep going, but I love it – I wouldn’t change a thing.

Vani Gupta, 10, India When you make a successful movie, how do you feel?

It’s like when you tell a joke and everyone laughs; you feel good because everyone gets it. When you make a film and people enjoy it, it’s the best feeling in the world.

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Learning Blank Canvas

Students from

Beanstalk International Bilingual School fill December’s

Blank Canvas

Soo In, Grade 9

June, Grade 8

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Learning Blank Canvas

Eun Soo, Grade 9

Geon Ho, Grade 7

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Up In the Air Can you breathe easy in the capital?

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PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU

Pictured left to right: Sophie Zhang, 16, US, lived in Beijing for five years Sunny Lee, 17, South Korea, lived in Beijing for five years Stephanie Han, 17, US, lived in Beijing for six years Alex Huang, 16, US, lived in Beijing for two years

Learning Debate Club

“Just being outside would make me feel like

B

killing myself”

eijing is one of the most polluted cities in the world and air pollution is a part of everyday life. The unrelenting pace of China's economic growth and urbanization adds to the pressure of energy consumption. Coal still remains the primary source of energy, the burning of which releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the air. Moreover, approximately 1,500 cars join Beijing’s clogged roads everyday. Students from International School of Beijing spoke about this serious problem and offered their ideas on how to reduce air pollution. Annie Huang

“I have to get there; I don’t care who’s in my way.” That causes a lot of problems.

What do you think of Beijing’s air quality?

Stephanie: I don’t think anything can be done unless people change their minds about using public transportation or change their attitude about following the law.

Sunny: It’s really bad. I lived in Hong Kong before which is famous for being polluted, but when I came to Beijing, I thought, “Wow, this is way beyond anything I’ve experienced.”

Alex: I come from California and the air there is simply gorgeous – every breath is like heaven. Every time I go back to the US, it’s like a reawakening, and when I come back to Beijing, I have to go to sleep again.

What are some of the leading causes of air pollution in Beijing?

Alex: Factories. I noticed when I first came back in summer; we had really nice days because the factories were not running.

Sunny: The sheer number of cars is definitely one of the biggest problems in Beijing.

Sophie: And China’s population is so large. We consume a lot more energy and it all contributes to pollution.

What can be done to reduce air pollution?

Stephanie: I know China is making great steps towards renewable energy. It’s already the world’s leader in solar and wind energy. I think switching from the use of coal to renewable sources will really help mitigate the problem.

Sophie: I’m not sure if Beijing is structured for public transportation.

Buses here are often really crowded and sometimes they are really inefficient. And of course, we can’t force people to make the transition from cars to bicycles, so it would make sense for the government to subsidize the cost of electric or hybrid cars in order for there to be more efficient energy use.

How can Beijing minimize traffic jams?

Sunny: There should be more focus on teaching driving etiquette – giving priority to pedestrians, concern for safety, and don’t just start shouting and demanding money [when accidents occur].

Sophie: I think the city’s laws and policies can only work if the people want it to work. The city can’t necessarily do anything if [the people] don’t have the correct mindset to fix the problem. Educating the public makes more sense than asking the city to make more policies because they aren’t being followed.

Do you check the air quality before you go outside?

Sophie: I think I’ve become accustomed to the air quality in the sense that I don’t notice it when I’m breathing, but if I can’t see around me, I usually stay in for my safety.

Alex: Normally, it wouldn’t affect me unless it’s an extremely polluted day – just being outside would make me feel like killing myself.

Sunny: I feel your pain.

Should Beijing be forced to switch to green technology?

Sunny: When I went to the Global Issues Network Conference in Hong Kong, I heard some really shocking things. For instance, if a pregnant woman living in Beijing gives birth, the baby’s IQ will be five to ten points lower. The chance for premature births and stillborns also increases quite a bit. So I really think Beijing should start switching to green energy for the next generation, if they want smart people and healthy babies.

Alex: We are all afraid of getting rid of our old habits, but we have to move forward. That time should be coming up pretty soon.

Stephanie: China has to take action now, but it’s going to be more difficult for China because of their heavy reliance on coal. Coal is also tied to the employment of millions of people.

Sophie: The city should definitely be forced to use green technology, but it’ll be such a high cost to implement it in people’s homes, especially in rural areas. People should also cut their energy consumption – it doesn’t make sense to have green technology and still be wasteful.

Alex: In the US, drivers follow the rules whereas here people think,

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Parenting Close Up

The Good Witch of the East

How one mother is challenging China’s child-rearing traditions

by Imogen Kandel

T

he name Yanhong Wheeler may not mean much to the English-speaking community, but here in China, she’s the controversial new voice in the push to change traditional parenting practices.

Better known to her Chinese readership as Xiao Wu or “Wee Witch,” Wheeler is a Beijing-born US citizen who’s married to a New Zealander. They are currently raising their two children (ages 10 and 7) in Beijing, where Wheeler has developed a career as a writer, lecturer, La Leche League leader and parenting expert. Her seven Chinese-language books, including the best-sellers Of Love and Liberty and Boundaries and Disciplines, shine a spotlight on unpopular concepts such as breast-feeding and putting less academic pressure on children. For a tiny woman, Wheeler’s words pack a giant punch and have influenced thousands of families. beijingkids sat down with Wee Witch to find out how she’s cast her spell over China’s parenting establishment.

What inspired you to write parenting books for a Chinese audience?

I started writing as a mother - a crosscultural mother with a cross-cultural family raising cross-cultural babies. Soon enough everyone was asking me, “Why don’t you write in these magazines? Why don’t you write these books? Why don’t you go on television?” Gradually, I became what they call an “expert.” I still don’t regard myself as an expert. I have access to more resources and I can bridge the gap between Western and Chinese parenting concepts.

Oh yeah! My personal feeling is that I’m very well received and there are faithful followers.

Most of the criticism is under the heading, “This is Western,” but I think that’s just narrow-mindedness. There’s no distinctly American baby behaviour versus Chinese baby behaviour. They all want to nurse and they throw a tantrum when their needs aren’t satisfied. I think people from every nation would agree with that. No one is 100 percent

Wee Witch is on a mission

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PHOTO: COURTESY OF YANHONG WHEELER

Have you faced any resistance from the Chinese community?

Parenting Close Up

correct 100 percent of the time. The books I read: If there are parts I don’t like, I leave it there. I don’t attack the author and say “You’re too American, [or] you’re too Australian!”

Why do you think such resistance exists?

Traditionally, Chinese parents depend on their children in their old-age: Their children are their pension plan. You’re dependent on the children and therefore you must control the children. The best way of controlling someone is to convince that person that they are dependent on you. For the younger generation – the emerging middle class – they have

towards me is, “Oh, but we live in China and what you say is very nice but we have to fit into the environment, therefore we have to put our children through the grindstone.”

Why must you fit into this environment? Is it necessary? Is it healthy to bring up your own child to think, “I must cut off my own corners to fit in?” Or is it healthier to bring up a child and have him believe in himself, to think “I don’t have to fit into anything, I’m capable of creating my own environment and changing the world.” It takes a lot of courage for parents to turn their backs on the system and go down the alternative path. Look at me, I’m less than 100 pounds and I’ve influenced hundred of mothers. Don’t ever underestimate yourself.

mainstream Western system there are things I am not satisfied with. But I take initiative to change, to influence. Once a week I go to my daughter’s class to lead some activities from the Steiner pedagogy. What the children achieve is phenomenal. Education is not a gift from the grown-ups to the children; it’s a gift from the children to the grown-ups. Mainstream education, especially Chinese, is: I’m the teacher and you’re a blank piece of paper; swallow what I give you and then regurgitate it. Children are a rich resource of ideas, of imagination, of creativity. My task [as the teacher] is to protect that bank of resources and to help you blossom. There are many approaches, many ways of doing that.

“It takes a lot of courage for parents to turn their backs on the system and go down the alternative path”

their own pension plan; they can depend on themselves financially. There’s a group of parents who can afford to let their children be independent.

Why do you think the traditional Chinese way of raising children needs to change?

Times have changed. Whether we like it or not, China is playing a bigger role on the global stage. We need people and talents to manage that role. Chinese education doesn’t breed leaders, thinkers and innovators. Also, it’s not a way of raising the whole person.

Can you explain some of the pressures Chinese parents face?

Some parents say, “I look at what my child is going through and I know what you say makes sense but I’m torn apart, I’m in pain.” But pain is a good thing; when you have pain, you start thinking. One of the criticisms directed

Does the Chinese education system have the capacity to change?

So there’s nothing that the West can learn from the Chinese system?

Yes, absolutely. Change will happen very slowly and will start from grassroots. I think the government knows it has problems. The former Vice Minister of Education Dr. Wei Yu is very cutting edge, and if you read her blog, you know that the Ministry of Education knows there’s a problem [and that] they have the solutions. But there are missing links between the government and the parents. The thing is, Chinese education doesn’t really encourage independent thinking and it doesn’t encourage initiative. It’s all passively waiting for change, waiting for someone to put something on the plate and give it to you.

No.

Do you think Western education philosophies could adapt anything from the Chinese system?

I got involved with Steiner education; this is a pedagogy that I really believe in. So, even in the

Have you received any positive feedback from parents who’ve applied your techniques?

I’ve heard many positive things, [but] I don’t take credit for it. If you practice [my techniques] and there’s an immediate improvement in the parent-child relationship, it turns your life around. Little things like telling bedtime stories: You tell them, you don’t read them – you make them up! One parent said, “I used to have to read 23 books before my child would go to bed. The other night, I started telling a story and by the second time, she fell asleep!” I wouldn’t continue this if it wasn’t working. But I’m not alone. I may be more visible because I’m married to a Kiwi and have cross-cultural children, but there are many other eductors who share my feelings.

I’m not a lone voice.

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Parenting Alternate Routes

Christmas In Two Homes Managing the festive season across two countries

by Jennifer Ambrose

Keeping with our Starbucks theme, my son Myles requested another coffee-cup ornament

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ur family has been fortunate enough to return home almost every year for Christmas. As such, my husband Randy and I have had a hard time convincing ourselves that we should put up a Christmas tree or any decorations at all. Additionally, when we come back to the apartment in January, the last thing I want to do is fight with unreasonable jet-lagged kids who want to cling to those last vestiges of Christmas spirit when I really just want to restore order and move on with the calendar. However, it would not be fair or right for our kids to be told how important Christmas is and not have any signs of it in our own home. Besides, it felt downright Grinch-like not to make any Christmas effort at all.

During our first year in China, the only festive cheer we had was three resin snowmen I won in a silent auction. If it weren’t for these, we would have had nothing Christmas-themed in our apartment at all. They were joined the following year by some odds and ends from Starbucks. Friends of mine who owned a shop gave us some leftover decorations and a slightly shop-worn plush Santa bear.

The year our daughter Brigid was born was the only time we remained in China throughout the festive season, so we actually bought a small fake tree, accompanying ornaments and garlands, as well as a nativity set. Keeping with our Starbucks theme, my son Myles requested another coffee-cup ornament. I fear that his association between Christmas and Starbucks will be life-long.

After almost five years, we are finally admitting to ourselves that we may actually spend more Decembers (either in whole or in part) in China, so we really ought to begin our Christmas here. Our tree goes up the first week of Advent and Christmas music plays almost non-stop.

Last year, we introduced Christmas cookie baking.

For several days my son Myles and I mixed, rolled, and shaped batches upon batches of cookies. After most of the decorative, festive gift cookies were finished, we invited his local friends to the house for the finale – gingerbread.

One Chinese boy had recently read The Gingerbread Man in English, so he was especially interested in seeing how they were made. When he came over with his parents, his

mother asked for an apron and offered to help. I surprised her by telling her that the boys, 5 and 6-years-old, were going to be doing most of the work. Patiently and conscientiously they took turns with the rolling pin and cookie cutters. As the cookies baked, we re-read The Gingerbread Man as well as a few other winter-themed books. It wasn’t until the following October, though, that I got a real measure of the success when Myles’ friends started asking when Christmas was, so they could make gingerbread again.

When we returned after our last holiday break, I was very unpopular with the 6-and-under crowd for putting the decorations away almost immediately. I have to admit it was not fun ending Christmas for the second time in a month. But if this is the trade-off for the holidaymaking in December, we’ll take it.

Jennifer Ambrose hails from Western Pennsylvania and misses it terribly. She still maintains an intense devotion to the Pittsburgh Steelers. She has lived in China since 2006 and is currently an at-home mother. With her husband Randy and children Myles and Brigid, she resides outside the sixth ring road in Changping, northwest of Beijing. Her blog can be found at jenambrose.blogspot.com.

ILLUSTRATION: ILLUSTRATION: FEDERICA SERAVESI LI XING

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We Three Travelers

Parenting Beijing Baba

Holidays through the eyes of a 3-year-old

by Martin Adams

ILLUSTRATION: LI XING

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ids see things that we don’t. I’m not referring to the otherworldly – it’s more this sort of thing: We are with our 3-year-old sitting outside The Den (I always think it’s an underappreciated family venue), and my son Daniel says, “Daddy, look!” We look up, and there above our heads is a group of lord-knows-whatwith-wings, presumed birds of prey, circling high above us. Most big people would never have noticed. And these rarefied if random powers of perception are just one reason why traveling with a little one is just, oh, so much fun.

Any parent will tell you, if they are being truthful, that it can be a jading, not to say shattering experience, that occasionally brings on a longing for the lost days when they could get away as a couple (or even as singles). But there is certainly a deal of compensation in seeing different parts of the world through the eyes of a 3-year-old. We recently dragged Daniel to Thailand. Inevitably, he missed Beijing and his ayi for the first few days, and spent the last couple looking forward to getting back home. But in the middle he thankfully saw fit to enjoy himself – thus justifying Mummy and Daddy’s investment in the airplane tickets.

The hightlight was definitely Ko Phi Phi Don, often shortened in tourist lit to Phi Phi, which might be rendered pipi in pinyin. This happens to be a homonym for “botty” in Chinese kiddy-speak, so for obvious reasons Daniel had really been looking forward to going there. What self-respecting 3-year-old boy wouldn’t relish spending a few days on Botty Island? For father and son, boat trips in the vicinity were leavened by the inappropriate anatomical naming of adjacent islands.

“Ko” means island, and “don” means big, thus making the only inhabited island (I Wikied it) “Big Phi Phi”. And boy, is it inhabited - mostly by sunburned British students with cocktails in hand. Apart from them, though, it was nice. The island is spectacularly shaped: Mountains on either side, connected by a narrow strip of land bounded by white-sand beaches. Between this is the town - rebuilt following devastation in the 2004 Tsunami.

Although Phi Phi ticked most of the boxes that make it a good place to take the kids on holidays, we were slightly surprised to find ourselves in a small minority of families with younger children. One reason might have been because it was monsoon season, which made the ferry ride back a queasy and alarming experience. (Daniel slept soundly while we suffered.) There was one major drawback to going with a little one: The main event in Phi Phi is a trip to a cove on the neighboring island, which happens to be the one where a certain Leonardo Dicaprio flick was filmed.

I never got to see The Beach in question, however, the wind being too strong, the long boat could only drop us in a bay nearby, leaving just a short swim through a choppy sea, a climb up a metal ladder on a craggy rock face, and a walk to the sacred site. My wife braved it, while I minded the kiddy on the bobbing longtail boat. When Su made it back, she was white with fear. I was green. But Dan, of course, was taking it all in his stride, just soaking up the view of Big Botty Island.

What self-respecting 3-year-old boy wouldn’t relish spending a few days on Botty Island?

For a rest from raising his son, Martin researches clean technology for China Confidential, a Financial Times publication, and works as a pen-for-hire. During his seven years in Beijing, he has also been a warm weather kung fu practitioner.

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Feature

A Merry Beijing Christmas Spending Christmas in your home away from home can be a wonderful experience. The plethora of mingling cultures that is modern Beijing allows people to see, and maybe even experience, a side of the festive season they’ve never been exposed to before. When you are far away from family, surrounding yourself with friends becomes especially important. If anything, the importance of Christmas is heightened as people hold on to the traditions that remind them where they came from. Beijing brings people from around the world together to share, celebrate and worship; after all, isn’t that what it’s all about?

PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU

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Feature

Christmas Celebration Festive traditions from around the world

by Kara Chin

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espite its Christian origins, Christmas is enjoyed by many denominations and cultures around the globe. In its basic form, it is a time for family and friends to enjoy one another’s company and fill their bellies with delicious food. At its most complex, Christmas is a time of devout worship.

As the winter festivities draw near, find out how three families from Russia, Germany and the UK celebrate Christmas in their home countries, and how they keep the spirit of Christmas alive while living in Beijing.

PHOTO: MISHKA FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

The Konovalov Family – Russia

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hanna Raitina and her husband Eduard Konovalov are originally from Serbia but have called Beijing home for the past six years. Eduard is a businessman and logistics professional and Zhanna is currently working on several community projects. Their 10-year-old daughter Sophia goes to the Canadian International School of Beijing, while their 4-year-old son Arseniy attends Etonkids Kindergarten. Though they miss the snow of Russia, this family has plenty of friends in Beijing to help them feel right at home.

How did you celebrate Christmas last year?

Russians love Christmas and New Year. We especially love New Year’s Eve when family and friends get together for the all-night celebration.

Last year, we had 30 guests in our house.

How is Christmas celebrated in Russia?

Russia follows the Orthodox calendar and Christmas is celebrated on January 7. People typically visit church before sitting down to a family dinner. Russia is famous for having snow and a cold winter – this is what we miss about Christmas in Russia. My husband and I were born in Siberia where the average winter temperature is about -25°C to -30°C!

What’s served at a Russian Christmas dinner?

At this time, Russian families enjoy a big feast – people cook and eat all the best dishes from their country. Every table in Russia will have Russian salad, caviar and frozen vodka. In Siberia, we definitely add Russian dumplings called pelmeny to the mix – a family tradition of ours.

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“We bake cookies and brownies, so our home has that special Christmas smell”

The Peters Family – Germany Simone Peters and her 7-year-old daughter Anna-Sophia have been in Beijing for over three years. Simone is a marketing and sales manager for events and exhibitions and Anna-Sophia attends the Yew Chung International School of Beijing. Though they’ll be flying back to their home country this year, Simone and Anna-Sophia still know how to celebrate Christmas in Beijing.

How is Christmas celebrated in Germany?

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What are your favorite Christmas foods?

Hot wine and Christmas stollen (German fruitcake) are typical fare right before Christmas. In our family, we eat turkey instead of goose, which is the more traditional choice. Our hometown is very close to the Dutch border, so around that time, we usually head there to eat gruenkohl, or green cabbage. Many families have fondue, raclette (a type of cheese) or fish.

How do you celebrate Christmas in Beijing?

On one of the Advent Sundays, we invite friends over for coffee and freshly baked waffles with cherries and cream. From December 1-24, Anna-Sophia has a special Advent calendar, so each morning she receives a small treat, such as chocolate or little hair barrettes. We also have a Christmas wreath with four white candles that are lit on each of the four Sundays of Advent before December 24. Finally, we bake cookies and brownies, so our home has that special Christmas smell.

PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU

Christmas is one of the most important holidays of the year in Germany. Special Christmas markets sell small presents, and serve hot wine with cinnamon. The majority of festivities take place on Heiligabend, or Holy Eve, on December 24. That afternoon, the Christmas tree is put up and decorated. We always have a real Christmas tree with golden-colored candles that are lit on the night of December 24. Typically, Germans enjoy a simple meal, such as potato salad and sausages on Heiligabend, while a bigger meal is served on Christmas Day. Our extended family gathers on the eve to feast on a late dinner of turkey, potatoes and red cabbage. We also have a family ritual of singing Christmas songs together. Bescherung, or the

exchanging of gifts, is generally done after dinner. Also, in Germany, Santa Claus is called Weihnachtsmann.

Feature The Jheeta Family – England Both Neetha Jheeta and her husband Manjeet are of Indian descent, but were born in Birmingham, England. They grew up in the UK with the best of both Eastern and Western cultures and traditions. Neetha is a sonographer by profession and Manjeet is an engineering manager at Elekta Beijing Medical Equipment Company. They moved to Beijing over three years ago with their children Kishan (4) and Anraaj (14 months).

Their son Kishan attends 3e International and their daughter Anraaj goes to a nursery at Dragon Bay in Shunyi. The Jheetas plan on celebrating Christmas in Beijing this year.

Christmas before going to bed. Christmas morning involves lounging in pajamas and opening presents. That night, a typical Christmas dinner is served.

What’s a typical family Christmas celebration?

We typically enjoy two roasted meats: a turkey wrapped in bacon and gammon (the hind leg of the pig), both served with stuffing. There is also mulled wine, pigs in a blanket (sausages wrapped in pastry), and essential vegetables including roasted potatoes, brussels sprouts and parsnips. Desserts include Christmas pudding with brandy butter or cream, mince pies and Christmas cake. The pudding is rich in alcohol and is traditionally lit on fire before being served.

Being British, Christmas has always been a part of our life. When we were young, we would take part in the school nativity play. And our parents always made a big deal of Christmas: giving to charity, sending Christmas cards, decorations, presents and a traditional Christmas dinner.

Do you have any Christmas family rituals?

The weather is typically cold but the atmosphere jolly. Christmas carols are played in the shops and everywhere you go. Streets are illuminated by houses decorated inside and out.

What dishes do you enjoy during Christmas?

Does religion play a role in your celebrations?

Christmas is a religious festival but we follow the Sikh religion. Both Christianity and Sikhism have the common ground that one should be charitable towards others. Christmas acts as a reminder of that message, so we always try to be charitable during this time.

PHOTO: SUI

We tune in for the Queen’s Christmas day speech and watch James Bond movies. We continue to make Christmas day as enjoyable and special for our children as we remember it. On the days leading up to Christmas, we build up the excitement with stories about Father Christmas. The children leave cookies and a glass of milk for Father

What is Christmas like in your home country?

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One In 22 Million Individuals who are making a difference in Beijing text by Shepherd Laughlin; photos by Judy Zhou

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here are times when the plight of others comes into sharp focus; at no time is that more true than Christmas. The urge to do good by your fellow people inspires many of us to lend a sympathetic ear or make a charitable donation.

But for five Beijing residents, they don’t need a time of year or a tradition to inspire them – all they need is a good cause. Their sustained commitment, from the suburbs of Langfang to the heart of Beijing’s migrant worker communities, makes them worthy of charitable goodwill all year round.

Two girls from Compassion for Migrant Children share a smile

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Feature

“It was as if an engine that had lain dormant within me was suddenly switched on”

Bread of Life Bakery A few years ago, Cheryl Wyse and her husband Keith were looking for a way to spread the word about their work with orphans and raise some much-needed funds. They hit on the idea of selling brownies and carrot cake at an expat bazaar, thinking that if bake sales worked in their native Ohio, why not in Beijing?

Soon they had more orders than they could keep up with, prompting the couple to open a bakery full-time. For the past four years, the business has operated out of a small property in the town of Langfang, located between Beijing and Tianjin. In the same building complex, Cheryl and Keith also run a foster home for children with orthopedic disabilities. “We are a home and a family,” says Cheryl.

“All the children call us mom and dad.”

The bakery also provides employment for six young adults, all of whom have an orthopedic disability and might otherwise have a hard time finding work. “It’s a threefold project,” Cheryl explains. “By keeping the young adults working, you are supporting their medical needs, and you get to eat really good bakery products!”

Working at the bakery not only provides a livelihood for the orphans, it also builds up their confidence. Cheryl tells the story of Cindy, a girl the couple took in from another orphanage. She had no orthopedic needs but her time in institutionalized care had left her withdrawn. Cheryl and Keith were told that the child couldn’t do anything for herself. As soon as Cindy started contributing to the bakery, she began to open up. Now she bakes and cooks for herself and others, and Cheryl says she’s become “quite charming to say the least.”

How to help: Donate directly or order baked goods online via the website. Deliveries are made every Tuesday morning (minimum RMB 200) and special trips for large orders can be arranged (minimum RMB 1,200). Try the carrot cake (RMB 138), cinnamon rolls (RMB 120), or apple crumb pie (RMB 65). Their baked treats are also available at Smallville Café in Shunyi (see Directory for listing).

Compassion for Migrant Children Beijing is home to an estimated four million migrants. According to Compassion for Migrant Children (CMC), migrants live in “a legal world that is a no man’s land [lacking access to] basic health care, education, and other social services that so many of us take for granted.”

Jonathan Hursh had lived in Beijing for two years before his first visit to a migrant school in 2005. “It was if an engine that had lain dormant within me was suddenly switched on. I couldn’t sleep for a month.”

At first, Hursh thought he could address the problem by encouraging local organizations to adapt their existing programs to meet the needs of migrant workers. But what the migrant community really needed was dedicated support - so in 2006, CMC was born.

Community centers form the core of CMC’s outreach programs.

Hursh describes them as “lighthouses of value for those who have great potential but are lacking opportunities.” There are six community centers in China, including three in Beijing. “They provide a safe and

welcoming place for migrants and their families, free from the stigma and marginalization they often otherwise face in society,” says Hursh.

They offer afterschool programs for migrant children, vocational and life skills training for young adults, teacher training for teachers at migrant schools, parenting workshops, health awareness and other programs.

A fourth Beijing center is scheduled to open soon.

In Hursh’s line of work, heartbreaking stories are commonplace.

He remembers a student who was badly beaten by his father. “This young man said he had dreamed of living in a world where he was valued for who he was. What he had dreamed of finally came true; in his relationships with his teachers and fellow students at CMC, he had found an environment which was life-giving.”

How to help: CMC employs 28 full-time staff in Beijing and Shanghai, but volunteers are a vital part of the operation, investing up to 30,000 hours per year in migrant children and youth. CMC works with companies on corporate social responsibility goals and welcomes applications from interns. Donations of money, goods and services are welcomed and various other needs are itemized on CMC’s website.

Beijing Brooks Education Center Hao Bing was a lecturer at Beijing Normal University when she first visited Yunnan province in 1996. She was on a campaign to protect the snub-nosed monkey but “the beauty of nature and the poverty of people” are what left a lasting impression.

In the years following, Hao dedicated her time to teaching students and teachers in some of China’s most impoverished communities about environmental protection. People in these isolated regions often overlook the fact that preserving the environment could help keep their local economies alive. Gradually, Hao realized the power of education to “give a person identity and roots, and change his behavior to improve the environment.”

In 2003, Hao established the Beijing Brooks Education Center.

Its programs are diverse, but all reflect Hao’s passionate belief that education and environmental preservation go hand in hand. One ongoing collaborative effort creates science and culture curricula in schools near wetland crane habitats. The approach builds community alliances that promote “healthy, productive landscapes that can support people and wildlife.”

Closer to home, Beijing Brooks organizes eco-working holidays for companies and nature guide trips for urban kids. Hao is on a mission to get city dwellers reunited with nature or as she says, “to inspire their soul and spirit.” This year, Beijing Brooks started a family Waldorf kindergarten near Olympic Forest Park, which gives children extra time to play freely in nature.

How to help: Beijing Brooks accepts donations of money and books, which go to help develop small libraries in rural villages and schools.

Volunteers are also welcome to help organize nature-themed activities for children in Beijing.

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China-Dolls Care and Support Association Osteogenesis imperfect (OI), sometimes known as brittle bone disease, is a genetic condition that causes frequent bone fractures, among other symptoms. Wang Yiou, who has the condition herself, refers to people with OI as “China dolls.” Wang Yiou and fellow patient Huang Rufang founded the China-Dolls Care and Support Association in May 2008.

Many China dolls are abandoned to orphanages, in part because the cost of treatment is beyond the means of most ordinary Chinese families. OI cannot be cured, but treatment can dramatically improve patients’ quality of life. With regular treatment, bone density improves and the chance of debilitating, painful fractures is reduced. Orthopedic surgery is also often needed to correct bone deformations left over from previous fractures.

For operations under RMB 10,000, China-Dolls covers costs via donations to patients’ families. Around 40 young patients have

Wang Yiou (wearing a pink jacket) with the team at China-Dolls

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taken advantage of these funds so far, but at least 20 more are on a waiting list until more money becomes available. Donors can also pledge RMB 100-200 per month to a low-income family; approximately 70 patients are currently involved in this program.

Not limited to hospital care, China-Dolls’ other ventures include a bimonthly journal and psychological support programs for mothers.

“The bones may be weak,” says Wang Yiou, “but as China-Dolls’ slogan says, ‘Love is still strong.’”

How to help: Over half of China-Dolls’ financial support comes from personal donations. One of Wang Yiou’s long-term goals is to attract corporate sponsors to support medical care for more patients. People who are interested in volunteering should contact China-Dolls for more information.

Feature Feature

Charlotte with one of Beijing’s many abandoned kittens

Charly’s Cats Charlotte Landwehr, a local high school student at Western Academy of Beijing, has cared for a colony of homeless cats since the tender age of 13. Four years ago, a friendly neighbor taught her how to trap and neuter strays. “I was pretty panicked about it,” says Charlotte, “but [my neighbor] did the trapping and neutering there for me, and after that I did all the trapping myself.”

Beijing’s cats are often tossed out onto the street by owners who’ve grown tired of them, by people who leave town, or by well-meaning owners who suddenly find out that their home countries don’t accept any furry companions from China. However they get there, cats have a rough life on the streets. Because many aren’t spayed or neutered, stray cats frequently give birth to new litters, and thus the problem continues to multiply.

Too often, authorities try to control the cat population by trapping and killing the creatures. Young Charlotte realized that a trap-neuter-return (or TNR) program could

not only help cats stay disease-free and keep them out of fights, but help protect humans from cat-borne illnesses like rabies.

Charlotte runs her TNR project, Charly’s Cats, in partnership with International Center for Veterinary Services (ICVS), an animal hospital that performs sterilization surgeries and offers TNR training workshops. Charlotte is a devoted caretaker of her own colony, but she’s realized that the cat population can’t be controlled without a community-wide effort.

“My main goal is to teach people to do TNR,” she says. Charlotte lives up to her word, giving presentations to local community groups on a regular basis. “People should maybe look outside and start planning TNR programs in their own backyard.”

How to help: Check with ICVS for scheduled TNR training programs. Charlotte accepts donations to pay for the procedure; a cat can be spayed, ear-tipped and vaccinated against rabies for as little as RMB 160.

Bread of Life Bakery (031 6608 3407, 137 2262 2865, bread.of.life.bakery@gmail.com) www.breadoflifebakery.org Compassion for Migrant Children (6465 6100, volunteer@cmc-china.org) www.cmc-china.org Beijing Brooks Education Center (6235 2630, office@brooks.ngo.cn) www.brooks.ngo.cn China-Dolls Care and Support Association (6345 8713, chinadollscn@gmail.com) www.chinadolls.org.cn Charly’s Cats (charlybj@gmail.com) www.charlyscats.org International Center for Veterinary Services (8456 1939, icvs_china@yahoo.com) www.icvsasia.com

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Feature

10

Christmas Must-Haves Where to get your festive gear this season

by Kara Chin and Imogen Kandel

PHOTO: JUDY ZHOU, WITH THANKS TO HILTON BEIJING

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The Tree Hate vacuuming up pine needles every time someone brushes against the Christmas tree? Pick up a tasteful faux tree from Wal-Mart, Ikea or Carrefour. If you can’t imagine Christmas without that green giant, make a trip to Pinnacle Plaza or Beidong Floriculture Garden in Shunyi.

Downtowners can head to Liangma or Laitai Flower Markets. See Directory for listings.

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The Roast Take the hassle out of your Christmas by getting Chef Too to do all the cooking for you.

For approximately RMB 120 per person, you will get a turkey, every side dish imaginable and a range of yummy desserts. For more Downtown dining options, see Events (p16). Shunyi-siders can check out Smallville, Michael’s Place or Café Lakeside for their range of Christmas dinners.

The die-hard cooks among us, can pick up their bird of choice from April Gourmet or Carrefour.

See Directory for listings.

Feature

The Decorations It just wouldn’t be the festive season without a huge supply of sparkly lights, wrapping paper, tinsel and Christmas tree baubles. Our favorite stockists include one-stop-shop Ikea for their range of candles, wrapping paper and decorations.

On the fourth floor of Yashow Clothing Market you’ll find a collection of cards, fairy lights and decorations. And for everything in between, check out Nüren Jie (Ladies Street) near the US Embassy, Wal-Mart, Laitai and Liangma Flower Markets. See Directory for listings.

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The Gingerbread House Comptoirs de France has a selection of beautiful and delectable Christmas treats including gingerbread houses, Italian panettone, Yule logs, and the piece de resistance – their massive chocolate Santas (70cm, 3kg). If you’re into DIY, make a trip to Ikea and pick up a gingerbread house kit from their small supermarket. The pieces are pre-cut so all you need to do is stick them together using frosting. The Hilton Beijing will be selling gingerbread houses from their lobby (RMB 180 per kilo) as well as Christmas hampers (starting from RMB 388). For details, call the Hilton Beijing’s Christmas hotline at 5865 5865. See Directory for listings.

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The Flora Brighten up your home with a few pots of fire-engine-red poinsettias. This traditional Christmas flower also makes for a great gift. Simple floral displays not enough to signal your festive cheer? Hang a stunning wreath on your front door, or anywhere in the house for that matter.

As an added bonus, making a wreath is a fun and easy Christmas craft for the kids.

Pick up your wreath supplies from Ikea or Laitai and Liangma Flower Markets. See Directory for listings.

Whether you can twirl or you’re more likely to tumble, ice skating is the perfect festive sport come Christmas time. Lace up your skates and hit the ice on Houhai Lake where you can find skate rentals, as well as ice bikes for the adventurous.

For a warmer experience, head indoors to Ice Zone in Shunyi, Le Cool in Guomao or All Star Champion Skating Club in Solana.

See Directory for listings.

The Christmas Mass For Christmas Mass, visit Capital Community Church at Beijing Arts Exhibition Center in Shunyi. Alternatively, Beijing International Christian Fellowship (BICF) will hold a Protestant service. The River of Grace Church will hold a Christmas Eve candlelight service on December 24 at 7pm. All services will be conducted in English and are for foreign passport holders only. Contact organizers for details.

Capital Community Church, Beijing Arts Exhibition Center, 1A Shunhuang Lu (north of Beijing Riviera), Chaoyang District (8046 2716) www.capitalcommunitychurch.org Beijing International Christian Fellowship: 1) Room FA 201, 2/F, 21st Century Theater, Chaoyang District (8454 3468, information@bicf.org); 2) Building C (Basement) Raycom Info Tech Park, Haidian District (8286 2813, information@bicf.org) www.bicf.org River of Grace Church, 2/F, Great Hotel, 1 Zuojiazhuang, Chaoyang District (6466 1680, info@theriverofgrace.com) www.theriverofgrace.com

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PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU, WITH THANKS TO HILTON BEIJING

7

6

The Ice Skating

8 9

Feature The Egg Nog Ditch the store-bought and go homemade. Find the ingredients at any foreign supermarket, including Jenny Lou’s and April Gourmet.

Ingredients (serves 2) 2 eggs 3 tbsp sugar 1 tsp vanilla 2½ cups milk pinch of freshly ground nutmeg or cinnamon Add the ingredients together in an electric blender. Blend until smooth and serve chilled. For an extra kick, adults can add a splash of rum or bourbon.

The Jolly Man

10

Thanks to the China Trade Commission, children can receive a free call from Santa Claus in English, Chinese, Spanish, Italian or French. E-mail your child’s name, age and special message to MeetSantaClaus@gmail.com. The first registered 3,000 boys and girls (ages 3-7) will receive a call from Santa before receiving an e-mail confirmation about where to meet Mr. Claus in person in mid-December. Calls are made from 6-10pm until December 23 and visits are held at one of seven designated spots in Chaoyang, Haidian and Wangjing Districts. For details, call 8255 1638. To find out where else Saint Nick will be making an appearance this year, see Events (p14).

The Cheer

Beijing may not have a giant tree akin to New York City’s Rockefeller extravaganza, but there are still plenty of opportunities to see those twinkling lights. To see a deckedout Christmas tree, head to Beijing Marriott Northeast, Legendale Hotel Beijing, Hilton Beijing or Kempinski Hotel Beijing. For an extra-special treat, Hilton Beijing also has a Christmas train chugging through a festive miniature town. Alternatively, stroll through Sanlitun Village South, Solana, Pacific Century Place or Pinnacle Plaza to soak up some of that Christmas atmosphere. See Directory For listings.

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Feature

Decorative Delights Make your own festive fun

by Rebecca Kanthor

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PHOTOS: SUI

W

hy brave the throngs of holiday shoppers and ďŹ ght over the last of the Christmas tree ornaments, when you can spend an afternoon making your own with the kids? These fun decorations make for great Christmas presents, perfect for sending home to Grandma.

Materials: Scrap paper Felt or heavy fabric Scissors Embroidery needle Embroidery thread Cotton balls Pen or pencil Ribbon

1

Sketch your design on paper; simple shapes like stars and birds are best. Place your design on two pieces of felt and use it as a guide to cut out your shape.

Difficulty level: Advanced (requires parental assistance for sewing) Time: 30 minutes

2

Using blanket stitch and starting from between the two pieces of felt to hide the tail of the thread, stitch the two pieces together, leaving one edge unstitched. Search “blanket stitch” on cutoutandkeep.com for a step-by-step guide.

3

When you have one edge left, tear apart the cotton balls and use the pen to stuff them into the cavity.

When you’ve stuffed it as full as you can, pick up your needle and finish stitching up the ornament.

4

Sew a loop onto the ornament and attach a length of ribbon.

5

Tie the ribbon into a loop and it’s ready to hang.

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Feature

Gingerbread Men A paper chain as easy as pie

by Rebecca Kanthor

M

aking this simple paper chain is a wonderful way to spend time with the kids. After the ďŹ nishing touches have been added to your happy gingerbread men, hang them anywhere you like, then just sit back and admire your handy work.

PHOTOS: SUI

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Materials: Long length of construction or craft paper Scissors Pen Markers, glitter and stickers to decorate

DifďŹ culty Level: Easy Time: 15 minutes

1

Fold up the long length of paper accordion-style.

3

Cut along the lines, making sure that you don’t cut through the arms and legs.

4

Unravel your paper chain.

2

Trace the shape of a gingerbread man on the top fold.

Make sure that the hands and feet of the gingerbread man are at the edges of the folds.

5

Decorate however you like!

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Directories

Family Dining

Family Dining African Pinotage Probably the only South African restaurant in town, this restaurant is located in the Lane Bridge Compound on the northeast Fifth Ring Road and offers distinctive dishes like Cape Malay bobotie (a type of casserole made from meat and rice) and South African wines. Lane Bridge Villa Compound, Laiguangying Donglu (Take the Airport expressway and exit at the fourth exit at Beigao. At the first traffic lights turn left, and carry onto the next traffic lights where you turn right into the complex. The restaurant is situated across the bridge in the Clubhouse), Chaoyang District. (6430 7010, 136 1120 7396, chrisb@winelink.com.cn) 朝阳区朝阳区 来广营东路９号 Ras Ethiopian Cuisine Sit at a child-friendly mesob, traditional hand-woven tables, and eat injera bread dipped in kitfo, and you will have a heady culinary experience in Beijing’s first Ethiopian eatery. This authentic restaurant is adorned with photographs of Ethiopian villagers and imported Ethiopian umbrellas hang overhead. Mon-Thurs 5pm-midnight, Fri 5pm-2am, Sat-Sun 11am-2am. 21 Liangmaqiao Lu (inside the drive-in movie theater park), Chaoyang District. (6436 8998) 埃塞 俄比亚餐厅, 朝阳区亮马桥路21号（燕莎桥往东 1500米路北汽车电影院内)

American The American Cafe No-nonsense Americanstyle diner serves up hearty burgers, a selection of Tex-Mex favorites, sizeable salads and breakfast plates in a cozy environment. Free delivery. Daily 7am-10.30pm. 1/F (behind Ozone Fitness), Blue Castle Apartments, 3 Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District. (8599 7428) 博平咖啡, 朝阳区西大望路3号蓝堡国际公寓1层 Blue Frog 1) Daily 10am-11pm. L312, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District.

(8046 6337, eva@bluefrog.com.cn); 2) Daily 10am-2am. S4-30, 3/F, Bldg 4, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6417 4030, eva@bluefrog.com.cn) www. bluefrog.com.cn 蓝蛙, 1) 顺义区天竺镇欲翔路 99号北京欧陆时尚购物中心(欧陆广场)L312室; 2) 朝阳区三里屯北路19号三里屯Village南区4号 楼3层S4-30 Chef Too No kids menu but they’ll love the penne meatballs. With a little help from mom and dad, kids can share one of Chef Too’s famous steaks with a side of mash. If you’re happy for them to get their hands messy, try the BBQ ribs. Sunday Brunch (RMB 68-98, served until 3pm, try the poached eggs with a side of spinach and mushrooms, pancakes, huevos rancheros and more) is where the real kid-friendliness kicks in, though. For dinner kids will love the bruschetta or any of their yummy pasta options. All staff speak good English; providing they’re not super busy, they are very attentive. Indoor seating with some booth-style seats as well as the standard table and chair setup. Voted “Outstanding American,” “Outstanding Brunch,” “Outstanding Steak,” “Outstanding Burger” and “Outstanding Chef (William Bolton)” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards.

Tue-Fri 11am-2pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am-3pm, Tue-Sat 5.30-10pm. Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu (north of Block 8), Chaoyang District. (6591 8676, chefbilly@yahoo.com) 美西西餐厅, 朝 阳区朝阳公园西路（八号公馆北） Cici’s This Canadian burger joint packs a lot into a small space, with just four tables. The menu is fairly basic with hamburgers, grilled chicken sandwiches and greasy onion rings featuring as the main stars. Cici’s also make a mean to-order burger for fussy eaters. Daily 10am-6.30pm. 3 Jingmi Lu, Homeware and Lifestyle Village, Shunyi District. (138 1194 6806)

Element Fresh This sunny Shanghai import showcases a healthier side of American food, with elaborate salads, smoothies and sandwiches. Popular weekend brunch menu.

Voted “Best American,” “Best Non-Hotel Brunch,” “Outstanding Family-Friendly” and “Best Sandwiches” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Restaurant Awards. 1) Mon-Fri 10am-11pm, Sat-Sun 7am-11pm. S8-33, Bldg 8, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 1318); 2) Daily 10am-11pm. 6 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (6433 5058) www.elementfresh.com 新元素, 1) 朝阳区三 里屯路19号三里屯Village南区8号楼S8-33; 2) 朝 阳区将太路6号 Eudora Station Bar and Restaurant This Lido area spot gets points for quality and service, and its large verandah is a great place to park with the kids on a sunny day.

There are two highchairs for especially wee ones. Daily 9am-2am. 6 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6437 8331) 亿多瑞站, 朝 阳区芳园西路6号 Fuel Live music and sports on the big screens, along with two private rooms equipped with TVs, KTV and Playstation 3 games. Take their rib-eating challenge, share an enormous burger or try one of the tasty pizzas. Daily 11am-late. 1/F, Langham Place, 1 Er Jing Lu, Beijing Capital International Airport (southwest of Terminal 3), Chaoyang District (6457 5555); 朝阳区首都机场二经路 1号朗豪酒店(T3航站楼西南) Lily’s American Diner The owner of this Shuangjing restaurant cut her teeth at Steak & Eggs; she’s now created a menu of her own offering a sizeable selection of classically greasy North American and Tex-Mex fare like cheeseburgers, roast beef melt subs and chicken or beef fajitas. All-day breakfast specials including buttermilk pancakes with two eggs, plus bacon, sausage or ham. Generously sized beef burritos come wrapped in suitably soft, yet resilient tortillas, with assorted vegetables and “Lily’s spices.” The beef nachos aren’t quite like those in Texas, but they’re entirely edible by Beijing standards.

Daily 8am-midnight. 2-18 Tianzhijiaozi, 31 Guangqu Lu, Chaoyang District. (6592 5548, lilysdelivery@yahoo.com) 朝阳区广渠路31号院 天之骄子2号楼2-18 Olio This Singaporean chain is simple and classy, without being burdened with a fussy, upscale dining atmosphere. The extensive menu comprises mainly Western food such as pizzas, sandwiches and pastas, but includes some Asian specialties for good measure.

Menu items include breakfast specials (bacon and eggs on toast etc.), soups, salads, gourmet salads served on a range of breads including focaccia, wraps, pizzas, pasta, fish and chips, burgers, wings, desserts and more. Lunch specials range from RMB 69-89.

Coffee (espresso, cappucino, mocha and more), tea, gelato and smoothies are also served. Daily 10am-9pm. B124, B1/F, China Central Place (basement of Shin Kong Place), 77-79 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 7882) www.olio.sg欧流餐厅, 朝阳区建国路 77-79号华贸购物中心地下1层124号 Smallville This cafe invokes the name of that hallowed Midwestern town where Superman was raised on wholesome food and family values – two things Smallville offers in abundance. Young comic book fans will get a kick out of the jumbo comic book posters and dishes named “The Avenger” and “The Hulk.”

A kids’ menu offers child-friendly versions of North American comfort food, but we bet the biggest lure will be the Oreo milkshake.

Mon-Thu 7.30am-7.30pm, Fri-Sun 7.30am8pm. 3 Kaifa Jie, Xibaixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 5448) http://www. yardbeijing.com/module/a0012/index. php?intModulePK=A0012_19&tagorder=0&isi nner=0&mmenu=2353庭院咖啡厅, 顺义区后 沙峪西白辛庄开发街3号

Bakeries & Desserts A Piece of Cake A family-run cafe specializ-

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ing in homemade cheesecakes, cupcakes and muffins. They also offer a few kid-friendly staples such as spaghetti bolognese and chicken wings. 2/F Riviera Shopping Center, 5 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8470 1384, 187 0114 7640 (English)) www.pieceofcake.com.cn 朝 阳区朝阳区来广营东路5号2楼东侧 Awfully Chocolate Scrumptious chocolate cakes are to die for – rich in taste yet moist and light. Three flavors: original (RMB 138276), banana (RMB 168-336) and rum and cherry (RMB 178-356). 1) Daily 10am-10pm.

Rm 05A�Bldg 1, Raffles City, Dongcheng District. (8409 8452, beijing@awfullychocolate. com.cn); 2) Daily 9am-9.30pm. Bldg 2, Carrefour Shopping Center, Zhongguancun Plaza, Haidian District. (5172 2511, beijing@awfullychocolate.com.cn); 3) Daily 10am-9pm. Rm 108, Bldg 2, Wanda Plaza, 93 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (5820 5826, beijing@awfullychocolate.com.cn) www.awfullychocolate.com.cn 1) 东城区东直门来福士 广场B1-05a (Raffles City); 2) 海淀区中关村家 乐福购物中心B2楼(肯德基旁); 3) 朝阳区建国 路93号万达广场2号楼108

Boulangerie Nanda A European-style bakery, the selection of muffins rotates daily, with orange, blueberry, and almond wholewheat in hot demand (RMB 10). A mini cheesecake (RMB 15) hits the spot without bringing on guilt. If you’re craving something savory, the 6-inch bacon and spinach quiche makes for a hearty lunch (RMB 40). Take home a multigrain foccacia (RMB 16) or sour rye bread (RMB 15); the loaves will keep fresh for up to two days. Those with allergies needn’t fear; every single ingredient used in the baking process is carefully listed on the packaging. Daily 9.30am-7.30pm. 1/F, 52 Jingshun Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区朝阳区京顺路52号乐活城1层(在 Giant自行车店旁边) Bread of Life Bakery Bread of Life Bakery creates jobs and a good working environment for older orphans who are disabled by baking and selling their own homemade breads, pies, specialty cakes and cinnamon rolls.

Order by phone or online at their website.

(137 2262 2865, 031 6608 3407, bread.of.life. bakery@gmail.com) http://www.breadoflifebakery.org/ CCSweets Artisanal Cupcakes, Cakes, Cookies.CC is an artist, jewelry designer,chocolatier & cakedesigner. She uses only the best gourmet, imported ingredients to make her cupcakes, cakes and cookies.

CC Sweets also custom designs cupcakes, cakesand wedding cakes to order. Try their Crazy forChocolate Six-Pack, containing sixvarieties of chocolate cupcakes. Check their website for details and rotating flavors. 1) 10am-6pm. Village North, NLG09A, Sanlitun Lu, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District[under Rolex store]hours: 10 am to 6 pm, Chaoyang District. (cchow68@gmail.com); 2) 10am8pm. Central Park, Tower 11, Shop 109, CBD, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (cchow68@gmail.com) www.ccsweets.cn 喜 喜饼房, 1) 朝阳区三里屯北区 NLG09A; 2) 朝 阳区朝外大街6号，新城国际T11.109店 Colibri Cafe Nestled in the trendy entertainment destination alongside creative labels

and high end boutiques, this Café offers more than 20 flavors of cupcakes (RMB 23), all handcrafted with fine ingredients and topped with soft butter cream, designed by awardwinning San Francisco-based studio Eight Inc, who embodies the vibrant spirit of the Hummingbird to Colibri. Sandwiches and coffee would complement the colorful spread of mid-day snack. 10am-10pm. LG51, Sanlitun Village North, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 0808) 蜂鸟, 朝阳区三里屯路11号 三里屯Village北区地下1层 Comptoirs de France 1) Daily 7am10.30pm. Door 102, Pacific Century Place Department Store, 2A Gongti BeiLu, Chaoyang District. (6539 2005); 2) Daily 7am-8.30pm. 2/F Riviera Plaza, 5 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8470 2347); 3) Daily 7am-8.30pm. 1/F, East Lake Club, 35 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District.

(6461 1525); 4) Daily 7am-8.30pm. 1/F, Bldg 5, Hairun International Apartment, 2B Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5135 7645); 5) Daily 7am-8.30pm. 4 Ritan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (8562 3355); 6) Daily 7am-8.30pm.

L-111, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8046 6309); 7) Daily 7am-8.30pm. Rm 102, 1/F, Bldg 15, China Central Place, 89 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 5480) www.comptoirsdefrance. com 法派, 1) 朝阳区工体北路甲2号盈科中心商 场102单元; 2) 朝阳区来广营东路5号2楼东侧; 3) 东城区东直门外大街35号东湖俱乐部1层; 4) 朝阳区将台路乙2号海润国际公寓商业5一层; 5) 朝阳区日坛北路4号; 6) 顺义区裕翔路99号天竺 镇欧陆广场L111室; 7) 朝阳区建国路89号华贸 中心15号楼102 Debauve & Gallais This famous French brand dating back to 1800 sells premium artisinal chocolates that boast low sugar content, a “high percentages of the finest quality cocoa” and no dyes, preservatives or other additives at premium prices. Choose from such delights as the Tamatave Chocolat De Madagascar and smooth, velvety Ganaches with a range of flavors (coffee, raspberry, orange blossom honey, blackcurrant). Daily 10am-9.30pm. 1) EB103, B1/F, Bldg 1, China World Trade Center, Chaoyang District.

(6505 4836); 2) L423, 4/F, Seasons Place, 2 Jinchengfang Jie, Xicheng District. 黛堡嘉莱 巧克力, 1) 朝阳区国贸商城1座地下1层EB103; 2) 西城区金城坊街2号金融街购物中心L423 Eden Juice Bar Healthy smoothies, snacks on the go and even mulled wine and hot soup during the colder months. Great for a bite on the run. 81 Sanlitun Beixiaojie A101 (next to Nali Patio) (5208-6086), 三里屯北小 街81号 A101 Gustomenta This ice cream shop-cum-cafecum-cocktail bar offers a tempting array of gelato flavors (RMB 12 per scoop), as well as light Italian snacks and salads. 1) Daily 8ammidnight. Just Make Building, 55-1 Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6416 2853); 2) Daily 7.30am-midnight. Sanlitun Lu (opposite the French School), Chaoyang District.

(6417 8890) http://www.gustomenta.com. cn/EN/gywm.asp 1) 朝阳区幸福村中路55-1号 杰座大厦; 2) 朝阳区三里屯路 （法国大使馆 学校对面） Leonidas This Belgian chocolatier offers over 80 flavors and boasts that they use the very finest materials in the production of each. Sure to please partners of all tastes.

Prices for all chocolates are fixed at RMB 88 for 100g. They also serve ice cream, pralines and confectionaries. Daily 10am-10pm. B1/F, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. http://www.leonidas.com/pralines?id =SHOP2EN&country=45&postal=&place= 比 利时列奥尼达斯巧克力, 朝阳区建国路87号新 光天地地下1层 Morphy Online cake delivery service offers a variety of flavors (tiramisu, cheesecake, chocolate truffle, linzer tart, pistachio mousse etc.), imported coffee beans and hand-crafted chocolates. Delivery is guaranteed within three hours. Order by phone or online. (4006 272 727) http://www.mofei001.com/ 莫菲

*listings in orange are new to Directories Pie House Despite what a generations of people raised by cartoons might believe, the proper destination for a banana cream pie is not in your opponent’s face. The divine vanilla custard from Pie House deserves to be in no one’s face but your own. Born of American pie enthusiast Mark Huetsch’s inability to bear a pie-less lifestyle in Beijing, Pie House delivers rich, heavenly pastry free within the Fourth Ring Road or to Wudaokou. Their pie lineup including pumpkin, French cream, key lime, and blueberry (RMB 149-249), and extends to mousses and tartlets. Delivered to your door on time, still warm and full of gooey fruit filling, these pies could solve a domestic dispute. Daily 9am-9pm. Delivery only, order five hours in advance. 9am-9pm.

(5166 4464) http://www.piehouse.com.cn 派悦坊 The Fig Tree This grand two-floor pastry school and café offers informal and fun classes where you can learn to make a supremely indulgent chocolate cake, delectable rum truffles or a savory quiche. RMB 350 gets you a two-and-a-half hour baking lesson from classically trained chef Lin Zhong, who uses proper old-fashioned “full-fat” ingredients.

And of course you get to take the fruits of your labor home with you. The bright and airy café that overlooks the school kitchens is a pleasant spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and carrot cake or a light lunch. Cakes can be ordered bespoke for all occasions, at prices ranging from RMB 150-1,000 depending on the ingredients, intricacy and size. 202, Bldg A, Chaowai Soho, Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (139 1056 6742, info@thefigtree.cn) www.thefigtree.cn 朝阳区朝阳区朝外大街朝外 Soho702室A座 The Lollipop Bakery UK Cupcake connoisseur bakes her sweet creations and delivers by the dozen. Choose from chocolate, vanilla and other flavors. Custom cakes upon request. Also available at Crepanini, Fisheye Café, and Secrets From Africa. Reserve 24 hrs in advance. also available at Crepanini, Fisheye Café, and Secrets From Africa, Chaoyang District. (135 5277 2683, cupcakes@lollipopbakery.cn) www.lollipopbakery.cn 朝阳区可百尼尼，鱼眼咖啡和亦有售 The Swiss Deli The Swissotel’s bakery and deli is a popular stop for Dongsishitiao commuters and offers an extensive range of cakes, bakery items, freshly prepared sandwiches and salads, homemade Swiss chocolate, as well as with a full range of beverages and delicious coffee. Great for a quick takeaway breakfast or snack. Daily 7am-10pm. 1/F Swissotel, 2 Chaoyangmen Bei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6553 2288 ext. 2127, publicrelation.beijing@swissotel. com) www.swissotel.com/beijing 东城区潮阳 门北大街2号 The Whole Soul Bakery The Whole Soul Bakery is based in Beijing and “dedicated to the idea of feeding your body as well as your soul.” Their desserts are “preservative, added sugar, wheat, and dairy-free;” and their “goal is to enable the citizens of the world to live well by eating well. Based on community, responsibility, and blending together.” All Brownies, Cookies, and Bars are made in batches of six, and each batch is priced at RMB 80. Cakes and Pies are priced at RMB 100, and include a re-usable glass pie pan. At the time of your second pie order, you may return this glass pan and receive a RMB 10 discount. More info and ordering form on their website. (137 1890 5194 (ask for Scott), JbrockL23@hotmail.com) http:// wholesoulbakery.weebly.com/

Buffets Asia Bistro A place to go for Asian fusion, this hotel-restaurant specializes in cuisine from Thailand and Vietnam, with the key event being the RMB 388/288 brunch buffet (with flowing champagne and wine/with beer) 11.30am-3pm on Sunday afternoons.

Voted “Outstanding Hotel Brunch” in the

Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards.

11.30am-3pm on Sunday afternoons. Daily 6am-midnight.. Lobby, JW Marriott Hotel, 83 Jianguo Lu, China Central Place, Chaoyang District. (5908 8511) 朝阳区建国路83号JW万 豪酒店 Bubbalicious Brunch Sunday 11.30am3pm. 2/F Westin Beijing Chaoyang, 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Xicheng District. (5922 8888 ext 8102) 西城区朝阳区东三环北路7号金茂北 京威斯汀大饭店 Cafe Noir The sunlight radiates through the high glass walls of Café Noir, where specialties from curry laksa to beef rendang and Hainan chicken represent Southeast Asian fare admirably. Alongside that, dishes such as lobster tail with caviar, and oyster with Champagne emulsion, demonstrate the sophistication of Western cuisine. Daily 6.30am-midnight. Traders Upper East Hotel, 2 Dongsihuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5907 8888) 朝阳区东四环北路2号上东盛贸酒店 Golden Hans Beer & Roast This chain of buffet restaurants serves all-you-can eat salads and meats (everything from Brazilian barbecue and chicken hearts to German-style sausage and prawns - although some of the more expensive items are served only once).

They also brew their own beer on site. 1) 1/F Bldg D, Chen Ming Dasha, 2 Xizhimennei Dajie, Xicheng District. (6600 2566); 2) 1/F Huapu Guoji Dasha, 19 Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6580 2259); 3) Bldg 420, Wangjing Xiyuan Siqu (Opposite China Mobile Building), Chaoyang District. (6471 1490) http://www.goldenhans.com/金汉斯啤酒烤 肉, 1) 西城区西城区西直门内南大街2号成铭 大厦D座1楼; 2) 朝阳区朝阳区朝外大街19号华 普国际大厦1楼; 3) 朝阳区朝阳区望京西园四 区420楼2楼 Golden Jaguar This buffet restaurant of both Western and Chinese food offers mountains to choose from. Lunch is RMB 198 and dinner is RMB 238; kids under 120cm are half-price and those under 70cm eat free.

There are plenty of chairs on hand for youngsters. Place mats at the Golden Jaguar’s buffet greet you with the advice: “For the sake of your health, please do not binge eat and drink.” Mon-Fri 11am-2.30pm,5-10.30pm,SatSun 10.30am-4pm,5-10.30pm. 1) 4/F, North Bldg, The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6553 8888); 2) 2/F, Wangfu Shiji Dasha, Donganmen Dajie (opposite China Children’s Art Theater), Dongcheng District.

(6559 8888 ext 1); 3) 2/F, Building 214, Huizhong Beili, Yayuncun, Chaoyang District.

(5128 1888) 金钱豹, 1) 朝阳区光华路9号世贸 天阶大厦北楼4层; 2) 东城区东安门大街王府世 纪大厦2层(儿童剧场对面); 3) 朝阳区亚运村惠 忠北里小区214号楼2层 Greenfish Daily 6.30am -11pm. The RitzCarlton Financial Street, 1 Jinchengfang Dongjie, Jinrong Jie, Xicheng District. (6601 6666 ext. 6255) 四季汇, 西城区金城坊东街1号 北京金融街丽思卡顿酒店 Holiday Inn Lido Offers great family-friendly buffet, as well as a number of other restaurants located in the compound. 6 Jiangtai Lu, Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6437 6688) http://beijing-lido.holiday-inn.com 北京丽都假 日酒店, 朝阳区机场路将台路6号 InspiRED Brunch Sunday 11am-3pm. 1/F Westin Beijing Financial Street, 9B Jinrong Jie, Xicheng District, Xicheng District. (6629 7810) 西城区西城区金融街乙9号 JW Marriott 83 Jianguo Lu, China Central Place, Chaoyang District. (5908 6688) 北京 JW万豪酒店, 朝阳区华贸中心建国路83号 Kranzler’s This Kempinski venue’s claim to fame is their classy East-meets-West buffet, featuring a daily lunch buffet (RMB 198, plus 15% service charge), semi-open kitchens in the evenings and the Sunday Family Brunch (RMB RMB 288, includes unlimited fruit juices and soft drinks; RMB 338 includes unlimited bubbly, white or red wine and Paulaner Beer, plus 15% service

Directories charge, 11.30am-3pm) with a range of German, Italian, Japanese and Chinese specialties, as well as New Zealand oysters, live lobster, foie gras and Swiss cheese fondue.

Live jazz band and the Kempinski’s Kids Club round out the offerings. Daily 6am-midnight.

1/F, Kempinski Hotel, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 3388 ext 4222) http://www.kempinski.com/EN/BEIJING/ RESTAURANTS%20AND%20BARS/RESTAURANTS/Pages/restaurant2.aspx 客来思乐餐厅, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号凯宾斯基饭店1层 Matsuko Mon-Fri 11.30am-2pm,5-10.30pm, Sat-Sun 11am-2.30pm, 5-10.30pm. 1) 1/F, 8 Nanxinyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District.

(8731 9890, li_juan1997@sina.com); 2) 78 Anli Road (Subway Line 5 Datun Road East Station), Haidian District. (5963 6663, li_juan1997@sina.com); 3) 2/F, Jinglong Dasha, 225 Chaoyang Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6509 8999, li_juan1997@sina.com); 4) Baijiazhuang (south east corner of Changhong Qiao), Chaoyang District. (6582 5208, li_juan1997@sina.com); 5) 39 Liangmaqiao Lu (opposite 21st Century hotel), Chaoyang District. (8453 4062, li_juan1997@sina.com) http://www.matsuko.com.cn/e_index_hoawei.asp 松子, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区南新园西路8号 龙头公寓南栋一层; 3) 朝阳区朝阳北路225号京 龙大厦2层; 4) 朝阳区星期五餐厅对面松阪屋; 5) 朝阳区亮马桥39号（21世纪饭店对面） The Orchard An institution among residents of residents of out-of-town expat hideout Shunyi, The Orchard comes highly recommended for its affordable menu of western food and emphasis on organic produce, with ample provision for little ones making it an ideal spot for family dining. The restaurant’s remoteness from the city center lends it added appeal as a retreat from the rough and tumble of urban life (although the surrounding village of Hegezhuang, which is also home to Green T. Living and the Yin Yang Community Center, is quickly gentrifying), but does make transportation something of a headache – finding a taxi back into town can be a challenge, so come equipped with a plan. The well-known Sunday brunch (11am3pm) is RMB 180 a person. Children can relax with a video and enjoy the cushy chairs in the kids’ room, or head outside for a stroll around the lake with mom and dad. Daily noon-3pm, 6-9pm. From Jingshun Lu, turn left (west) at Shunbai Lu Intersection, (turn at the driveway just west of the Hegezhuang Village Sign), Shunyi District. (6433 6270) 果园, 顺 义区崔各庄乡何各庄村(过何各庄村路标往南转) Seasonal Tastes Lively, cool, clean and fresh, this buffet restaurant comes with interactive cooking stations and healthful “super foods” corners that help jump start your day.

On Sundays from 11.30am-3pm, Seasonal Tastes hosts “Bubbalicious,” the highlights of which include a shellfish bar, luscious sushi and sashimi, Indian curries and a fresh pasta bar. There’s a fry-up counter for Brits abroad, and dim sum for Cantonese exiles. Perhaps best of all are the fresh ice creams and vast selection of desserts of all shapes and sizes, arranged like a candy store. Best of all for RMB 328 rmb + 15% service charge including soft drinks, juices, coffee and tea, RMB 368 + 15% service charge including soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea, beer and wine, or RMB 398 + 15% service charge including soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea, beer, wine and Moet & Chandon Champagne. Readers voted Bubbalicious at Taste as the co-winner of “Best Hotel Brunch” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Restaurant Awards. Daily 6.30-10.30am, 11.30am-3pm, 5.30-11pm. 2f, Westin Beijing Chaoyang, 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5922 8880) 朝阳区朝阳区东三环北路 7号金茂北京威斯汀大饭店 Senses The kids will marvel at the open plan kitchen and live cooking stations where your food is prepared before your very eyes.

The unique combination of international and Asian style cuisine makes this place a popular venue for a family meal. Breakfast buffet is RMB 208 (plus 15% service charge),

Family Dining

lunch is RMB 228 (plus 15% service charge) and dinner is RMB 328 (no service charge).

Co-winner of “Best Brunch” for its Bubbly Sunday brunch in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 6.30-10.30am, 11.30am-2.30pm, 5.30-10pm.. 1/F, The Westin Beijing, 9B Jinrong Jie, Xicheng District. (6606-8866 ext. 7810) http://www. starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/dining/ index.html?propertyID=1704 味, 西城区金融 大街乙9号北京金融街威斯汀大酒店1层 The Eatery Dine all day in this pleasant hotel restaurant featuring a daily international buffet (RMB 175 plus service charge) with live cooking stations. Features a comprehensive spread of international dishes – from fresh seafood delicacies such as Boston Lobsters to Indian Tandoori cuisine, Japanese Tempura, Sashimi & Sushi to Cantonese Dim Sum delights, as well as a dessert station serving Häagen-dazs ice cream. The venue offers a nice view of the hotel garden, and has free entertainment and activities at the Children’s Corner. Daily 6-10.30am, 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm. Four Points by Sheraton Beijing, Tower 1, 25 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District.

(8889 8888) 海淀区海淀区远大路1号北京海淀 福朋喜来登酒店 The Patio Restaurant The Lido’s Patio restaurant offers a wide variety of European and Asian dishes in their dinner buffet (RMB 118 for lunch, RMB 188 for dinner, plus 15% service charge) and a la carte options.

Non-smoking section available. Daily 24hrs.

Lobby, Holiday Inn Lido Beijing, 6 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (6437 6688) 朝阳区丽都假 日饭店内，朝阳区将台路6号 Vasco’s and Chynna FIZZtastic Brunch 5/F, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, 8 Wangfujing Dongjie, Dongcheng District. (5812 8888) www.pentabeijing.com 东城区王府井东 8号 希尔顿北京王府井洒店5层 VIC Sofitel’s VIC (standing for “Voyage of International Cuisine”) offers virtually round-the-clock buffet dining; think of it as the ultimate midnight snack. The spread covers all the expected bases – Cantonese, Japanese sushi, French cheeses, Italian cold cuts and an Indian curry station. lunch buffets cost RMB 198 and dinner buffets are RMB 268 (both plus 15% service charge) from Mon-Sat, while the Magnifique Sunday Brunch goes for RMB 298 per person (plus 15% service charge, with free flow of fresh juices, French wine, international beer and soft drinks), or RMB 398 per person (with 15% service charge, with a free flow of Perrier-Jouët Champagne). Bring the kids along for games, toys, bouncy castle, ball pool, Wii animation game, DVD corner and special activities under the supervision of the in-house nanny. Daily 12am-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm.

6/F, Sofitel Beijing, Bldg C, Wanda Plaza, 93 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (8599 6666, vic@sofitelwandabj.com) VIC国际美食, 朝阳区 建国路93号万达广场C座索菲特酒店6层

Cafes & Sandwiches Bocata Lunch favorite for embassy staff. The white rock terrace and well-made paninis (RMB 23-50) make this sandwich cafe a pleasant retreat when the climate is congenial. Daily 10am-midnight. 3 Sanlitun Lu (opposite 3.3 Shopping Center), Chaoyang District. (6417 5291) 朝阳区三里屯路3号3.3大 厦对面 Cafe Zarah Daily 9.30am-midnight. 42 Gulou Dongdajie, Dongcheng District. (8403 9807) www.cafezarah.com 东城区鼓楼东大街42号 Fisheye Café This blue and white, 70sqm coffee shop serves up quality coffee made from seasonal coffee beans that are sourced from eight countries in Central America and Africa, including El Salvador, Kenya, Costa Rica and Colombia, which are delivered straight from Ritual Coffee Roasters’ coffee, San Francisco. 10am-10pm. S1-18, 1/F Sanlitun Village, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District; 鱼眼咖啡.朝阳区三里屯路S1-18, 1/F三里

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Directories

Family Dining

屯 Village Moss Coffee & Bagels Authentic bagels in plain, whole wheat, blueberry and cinnamon raisin varieties. Can be filled with smoked salmon, teriyaki chicken, feta cheese, salad or any number of other sandwich ingredients.

Big mugs of coffee and free Wi-Fi are two very valid reasons to work outside the office for an afternoon. A weekday lunch special includes a sandwich, soup and hot drink for RMB 38. Mon-Fri 7am-7.30pm, Sat-Sun 9am7.30pm. 0171 (inside Cicada Hutong), Bldg C, Chaowai Soho, 6B Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5900 3348) 朝阳区朝外大 街乙6号C座 0171（知了胡同内 Mrs Shanen’s Bagels This Shunyi staple run by a Chinese-American native of Brooklyn, New York offers Beijing’s best bagels (in a variety of flavors, including jalepeno cheddar, sesame and cinnamon raisin), as well as burgers, sandwiches(served on a choice of pita, ciabatta or bagels) salads, artisan pizza, cheeses, breads, cakes, cookies, ice cream and an extensive breakfast menu. Produce and other organic products from the owner’s other venue Green Cow Farm are also available. The venue also includes a large children’s playroom is equipped with toys, kid-sized chairs and tables and an entire Chinese kitchen in miniature. Sun-Thu 7.30am-8pm, Fri-Sat 7.30am-8.30pm. 5 Kaifa Jie, Xibaixinzhuang (next to Capital Paradise), Shunyi District.

(8046 4301) 单太太贝谷面包房, 顺义区西白辛 庄开发街5号 (紧邻名都园) O’Briens An Irish sandwich bar offering classic thick bread toasted sandwiches, salads, soups, gourmet coffee, smoothies and fresh juices all in a relaxed, airy setting. Additional features include Carlsberg and Guinness on tap, wireless Internet and delivery options. 1) Daily 8am-9pm. Silk Market, 8 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5169 8870); 2) Daily 8am-9pm. 1/F Clubhouse, Building 1, Liangmaqiao Diplomatic Compound, 19 Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8532 1681); 3) Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat-Sun 8am-8.30pm.

6 Riverville Square, Tianzhu, Shunyi District.

(6450 8588) http://www.obriensonline.com/ stores/beijing/ 奥拜恩三明治吧, 1) 朝阳区秀 水街建国门外大街8号; 2) 朝阳区东方东路19号 亮马桥外交公寓1号楼会所1层; 3) 顺义区天竺 温榆广场06号商铺 Switch! With its mod furnishings, lofted floor-to-ceiling windows, wooden deck, and street-facing entrance, this café caters to the gallery-hopping crowds. The owners also operate the catering company Culinary Capers, and the menu offers a number of sandwiches, salads, and pizza as well as a cheerful selection of fried appetizers. A great stop for anyone who wants a nibble or a drink on the gallery circuit. Tue, Wed, Sun 11am6pm; Thu-Sat 11am-9pm. #8503, 798 Art District, 4 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.

(5978 4916) 朝阳区酒仙桥路4号798艺术区8503 Village Cafe Offers international cuisine and pan Asian classics with a fresh twist. Well-designed interior and kids-friendly environment.

Baby chairs and cutleries, and children’s menu’s on the offer. The Sticky Date Pudding dessert comes highly recommended.

Daily 24hrs. 1/F, The Opposite House, Bldg 1, Sanlitun Village, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6410 5210, villagecafe@theopposite house.com) www.theoppositehouse.com/ 朝 阳区三里屯路11号三里屯Village1号楼瑜舍1层

Central & South American The Mexican Kitchen Mexican food for Beijing’s gringos. The small ones will be kept happy with the tasty treats on the kids’ menu. The restaurant provides a convenient baby-changing table in its bathroom, and is also happy to host your kid’s next birthday party. Daily 10.30am-9.30pm. 705 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 4558/59, cater ing@globalcuisinebeijing.com) http://www. globalcuisinebeijing.com/mexicankitchen 墨西 哥厨房, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场705号

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Peter’s Tex-Mex Grill Texas-sized portions at this long running Lone Star State-inspired restaurant originally founded by a splinter group from Grandma’s Kitchen. Enjoy serviceable burritos, fajitas, breakfast plates and burgers and wash it all down with a frozen margarita. The St. Regis branch does brisk workday lunch business, while the Lido branch is more family oriented with a play area for kids as well as a Kid’s Menu at the Lido branch. 1) Daily 7.30am-11.30pm.

Hairun International Apartment, 2B Jiangtai Lu (southeast of Holiday Inn Lido), Chaoyang District. (5135 8187, 8627 3734); 2) Mon-Fri 9.30am-11pm, Sat-Sun 7.30am-11.30pm. 88A International Club, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8532 2449) 彼德西餐, 1) 朝阳区将台路乙2号海润国际公寓公建2号（丽 都假日酒店东南边）; 2) 朝阳区建国门外大街 21号国际俱乐部88A

Chinese Ba Guo Bu Yi Chengdu import serves authentic Sichuan cuisine. Classy, understated decor looks like a Chinese inn movie set. 1) Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5-9.30pm. 68 Xizhimen Nanxiaojie, Xicheng District. (6615 2230); 2) Daily 11am-2pm, 5-9.30pm. Xinzhi Dasha, 28 Fucheng Lu, Haidian District. (8819 0088); 3) Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5-9.30pm. 2/F, Nanhang Hotel, 10 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6567 2188); 4) Daily 11am-2pm, 5-9.30pm. 89-3 Di’anmen Dongdajie, Dongcheng District. (6400 8888) 巴国布衣, 1) 西城区西直门南小街68号; 2) 海淀区阜成路 28号新知大厦; 3) 朝阳区东三环中路10号南航 酒店2层; 4) 东城区地安门东大街89-3号 Da Dong Roast Duck Kids love getting their fingers dirty when crafting pancake after pancake of delicious duck at this Beijing favorite. Aside from the duck, they also have a large selection of homestyle standards.Won best “Beijing Duck” in 2008 tbj awards. Daily 11am-10pm. 1) 5/F, Jinbao Dasha, Jinbao Jie, Dongcheng District. (8522 1234); 2) 1-2/F, Nanxincang International Plaza, 22A Dongsishitiao, Dongcheng District. (5169 0329); 3) 3 Tuanjiehu Beikou, Dongsanhuan Lu (southeast corner of Changhong Qiao), Chaoyang District. (6582 2892/4003) 北京大 董烤鸭店, 1) 东城区金宝街金宝大厦5层; 2) 东城区东四十条甲22号南新仓国际大厦1~2楼(立 交桥西南角); 3) 朝阳区团结湖北口3号楼东三 环路(长虹桥东南角) Ding Ding Xiang You’d be nuts to bring a toddler to a hot pot joint, but Ding Ding Xiang’s individual hot pots make it easy even for picky eaters to satisfy their own tastes.

And who doesn’t like playing with fire? Let the flames begin! Voted “Outstanding Hot Pot” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 11am-10pm. 2/F, Yuanjia International Apartments, Dongzhimenwai, Dongzhong Jie (opposite East Gate Plaza), Dongcheng District. (6417 9289); 2) 1/F West Tower, 8 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.

(5900 3137/3079); 3) Daily 11.30am-11pm.

1/F, 14 Dongzhong Jie, Dongzhimenwai, Dongcheng District. (6417 2546); 4) Daily 11am-10pm. Bldg 7, Guoxing Jiayuan, Shouti Nanlu, Haidian District. (8835 7775/7779); 5) Daily 11am-10pm. 6/F, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 5997/7172) http://www.dingdingxiang.com. cn/ 鼎鼎香, 1) 东城区东直门外东中街东环 广场对面元嘉国际公寓2层; 2) 朝阳区东大桥 路8号SOHO尚都西塔一层; 3) 东城区东直门外 东中街14号1层; 4) 海淀区首体南路国兴家园 7号楼1-2层; 5) 朝阳区建国路87号新光天地 6楼D6006号 Din Tai Fung The internationally renowned chain has a home in Beijing – taste just one hand-rolled dumpling and you’ll know why they’re famous around the world (and a big hit with the kids). Playrooms available.

Voted “Outstanding Chinese Restaurant of the Year” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 5-10pm. 24 Xinyuan Xili Zhongjie, Chaoyang District. (6462 4502); 2) Mon-Fri 11.30am9.30pm, Sat-Sun 11am-10pm. 7/F, Dangdai

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Shangcheng, 40 Zhongguancun Dajie, Haidian District. (6269 6726); 3) Daily 11.30am9.30pm. 6/F, Shin Kong Place, China Central Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6533 1536) www.dintaifung.com.cn 鼎泰丰, 1) 朝阳区新源西里中街24号; 2) 海淀区中关村 大街40号当代商城7层; 3) 朝阳区建国路87号华 贸中心新光天地6层 Grand Mansion Chinese Restaurant For a real lao Beijing experience, this three-story restaurant is an ideal place to go. The decor is magnificent like an imperial palace, the staff dress in traditional Beijing clothes, and the opera stage on the second floor offers entertaining performances every night. The food consists mainly of Sichuan, Cantonese and Beijing cuisines. The performances (6.45pm-8.15pm) include Sichuan Opera with its special face-changing and fire-spurting stunts, traditional Chinese dance and music, magic shows, and kung fu. Your kids will not be bored! Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5pm-9pm.

Wanliuxing Bldg, Wanliu Donglu, 28 Wanquanzhuang, Haidian District. (5872 0188) 大 宅门中式餐饮会所, 海淀区万泉庄28号万柳东路 万柳新贵大厦 Hai Di Lao 9am-10pm. 1)4/F Wangjing International Commercial Center, 9 Wangjing Jie, Chaoyang District; 2) A2 Baijiazhuang Lu, Sanlitun (west of Beijing No. 80 Middle School), Chaoyang District. (6595 0079/2982) 朝阳区1)朝阳区望衔9号望京国际商业中心4楼; 2)白家庄路甲二号第80中学西侧 Jin Ding Xuan Dim sum fun for all. Let your kids guess the contents of the fresh, steaming baskets that arrive at your table and reward correct guesses by letting them order the next round of treats. And if Junior’s still not sleeping through the night, don’t worry, the restaurant is open 24 hours. Readers voted it “Best Dim Sum” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 24hrs. 77 Hepingli Xijie, Dongcheng District. (6429 6888); 2) D122 B/1 Huamao Shopping Center, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District.

(40067 66111); 3) Daily 24hrs. 16 Pufang Lu, across from Carrefour, Fengtai District.

(6761 7161); 4) Daily 24hrs. 1/F, Entrance B03, north corner of Jinyuan Shopping Mall, 1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District. (8887 1155); 5) Daily 24hrs. Yiyuan No.15, Anhuibeili, Yayuncun, Chaoyang District. (6497 8978); 6) Daily 24hrs. 15 Tuanjiehu Nanlu, Chaoyang District.

(8596 8881) 金鼎轩酒楼, 1) 东城区和平里 西街77号; 2) 朝阳区朝阳区建国路87号华贸购 物中心B1楼D122号; 3) 丰台区方庄蒲芳路16号 (家乐福对面); 4) 海淀区远大路1号金源时代购 物中心北侧1层B03入口; 5) 朝阳区亚运村安慧 北里逸园15号; 6) 朝阳区团结湖南路15号 Macau Street 1) B02, B/1F, U-Town Shopping Center, 2 Sanfeng Beili, Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5977 5633); 2) 136, B/1F, The Place, 20 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6587 1366) 澳门街茶餐 厅, 1) 朝阳区朝外大街三丰北里2号优唐生活广 场地下1层B02; 2) 朝阳区东大桥路20号世贸天 街地下1 层136号 Ming Court Headed by a master chef trained at the two Michelin-star Ming Court at the Langham Place in Hong Kong, it specializes in Cantonese and Shandong cuisine served in palatial surrounds. Must-try dishes include dim sum along with barbecue meats from the purpose-built barbecue kitchen. Chinese teas handpicked by the resident Beijing tea master and a top-drawer selection of wines and Chinese spirits accompany the feast. Seven suites for private dining, some with staggering views of the runway. Daily 11.30am2.30pm, 5.30-10.30pm. Langham Place, 1 Er Jing Lu, Beijing Capital International Airport (southwest of Terminal 3), Chaoyang District (6457 5555); 明阁. 朝阳区首都机场二经路1号 朗豪酒店(T3航站楼西南)

restaurant boasts sweeping city views and elegant decor but it’s Chef Kam’s delectable dim sum – masterpieces of texture and taste – that lingers longest in our memories. Items include braised sliced pork in oyster sauce, poached mandarin fish, asparagus topped with white fungus and more. Other specialties include “Monk Jump Over the Wall,” Princess Fried Rice, Sweetened Rice Pearl with Mango and dishes with shark’s fin, abalone and lobster. A few Sichuan dishes are on the menu as well and Hong Kong style dim sum (featuring steamed red rice flour rolls stuffed with shrimps and chives and homemade Beijing-style deep-fried bread sticks)is served at lunch and private rooms are available. Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, 5-10pm,Sat-Sun 9am-4pm,5-10pm. Traders Upper East Hotel, Beijing, 2 Dongsihuan Beilu (intersection of Xiaoyun Qiao and Fangyuan Xilu near Upper East Side), Chaoyang District. (5907 8406) http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/beijing/tradersuppereast/dining/restaurant/wulixiang/chef 屋里香, 朝阳区东四环北路2号 (霄云桥和芳园西十字路口)北京上东盛贸饭 店 2-3 层 Xiao Wang Fu Chinese homestyle is comfort food for your family, and this bustling place is great to initiate the younger members of your crew into the tradition of delicious Beijing duck. The Ritan Park venue, which is swankier, is probably better for a mom and pop only night out. Voted “Outstanding Kung Pao Chicken” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 11am2pm, 5-9.30pm. 2/F of Crown Plaza Hotel, 48 Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District. (5911 9985/6); 2) Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30-10pm.

Inside the North Gate of Ritan Park, Ritan Lu, Chaoyang District. (8561 5985); 3) Daily 11am-10.30pm. Bldg 2, Guanghua Lu Dongli, Chaoyang District. (6591 3255); 4) Daily 5.30pm-1am. 15 Qianhai Beiyan, Xicheng District. (6617 5558) 小王府, 1) 东城区王府 井大街48号国际艺苑皇冠假日酒店二层; 2) 朝 阳区日坛路日坛公园北门内; 3) 朝阳区光华路 东里2号楼; 4) 西城区前海北沿15号 Xihe Yaju Foreigners and Chinese alike flock to this upscale restaurant set in a traditional courtyard that borders Ritan Park. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-10pm. Northeast corner of Ritan Park, Chaoyang District. (8561 7643) 羲 和雅居, 朝阳区日坛公园东北角 Zen5es Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm.

4/F, the Westin Beijing Chaoyang, 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5922 8880, fbreservation.chaoyang@westin.com) www. westin.com/chaoyang 朝阳区朝阳区东三环北路 7号金茂北京威斯汀大饭店

Cooking Lessons and Schools Be a Chinese Chef (BACC) BACC teaches expats in the vicinity of Chaoyang park how to make numerous Chinese traditional dishes, including all-time favorites such as kungpao chicken and peppered beef. Room 102, Unit 4, Building 3, North Part of Chao Yang Park Xi Li, Chaoyang District. (65384069, beachinesechef@hotmail.com) Beijing Foodies Meets on the first Sunday of each month. Locations subject to change every month, Chaoyang District. (chengxixi@gmail.com) bjfoodies.blogspot. com Beijing Wine Club Organization of wine enthusiasts hosts monthly wine events ranging from blind tasting to wine quizzes, all with manageable snippets of wine education thrown in. Events are RMB 150. (137 1787 1229, info@beijingwineclub.com) www.beijingwineclub.com

The Roadhouse at Mutianyu Sat-Sun and holidays 11am-3pm, or by prior appointment.

12 Mutianyu Village, Huairou District. (6162 6506) www.roadhouseatmutianyu.com 大路馆 儿, 怀柔区慕田峪村12号

ChocoJing: The Chocolate Appreciation Society of Beijing Meets about once a month to hold chocolate tastings, explore different types of chocolates and their origins and in general have an excuse to gorge themselves silly. (chocojing@iheartbeijing. com) www.iheartbeijing.com/chocojing.html

Wu Li Xiang This Cantonese/Huaiyang

Class by Stephanie A decent mid-range

Directories

*listings in orange are new to Directories Western restaurant whose core audience is curious, outward-looking locals as much as the regular expat crowd. Try the spinach, bacon, and blue cheese salad (RMB 35) or the roast duck breast with port sauce and Tuscan beans (RMB 55). Daily 7.30am-10pm.

1/F, Bldg D, Global Trade Center, 36 Beisanhuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5825 6778, classbystephanie@gmail.com) 朝阳区北三环路 36号环球贸易中心D座1层 Fangjia Kitchen Offers lessons in Chinese cooking and traditional culture with local people in what was once Prince Xunjun’s Mansion, first built in 1760. Fang Jia Kitchen invites top chefs in Beijing to teach cooking and each class focuses on a regional classic cuisine and introduces Chinese food culture with cooking demonstrations, handson sessions and meals.Cooking Classes are Thur–Sun, 11am–2pm, RMB 300 per person (cash only), seating capacity is 8.Includes an eight-course gourmet dinner with free flow of wine.Friday & Saturday, 6.30pm – 9.30pm, RMB 300 per person (cash only), seating capacity is 20.You also can book for your own private class or event here. Thu-Sun 11am2pm. 13 Fangjia Hutong, Dongcheng District.

(159 1096 2965, fangjiakitchen@yahoo.com. cn) 方家美食工作室, 东城区方家胡同13号 HLCC Culture Center HLCC is a cultural center set in the heart of Shunyi villa compounds and whose purpose is to help foreign expatriates in Beijing to breach the cultural gap between them and Chinese people.Based on our extensive experience teaching Chinese to foreigners, we have developed unique methods allowing our students to quickly acquire the tools needed for daily communication.We also provide a whole range of courses that help local Chinese understand the needs of expatriates and help foreigners understand China better. These include cooking lessons, Fengshui lessons, painting lessons and more… 2751, 5/F, Bldg 27 Capital Paradise, Shunyi District. (8046 3328) http:// www.hlcc.asia/ The Hutong Set in an attractive courtyard, this is one of Beijing’s best informal cooking schools with classes on everything from regional Chinese cuisine to pizza making and Pakistani curries. Also offers a variety of meetings, clubs and workshops focused on intercultural friendship and learning. 1 Jiudaowan Zhongxiang Hutong (southeast of Beixinqiao subway station), Dongcheng District. (159 0104 6127, info@the-hutong.com) www.thehutong.com 东城区九道湾中巷胡同 1号(北新桥地铁站东南边） The Fig Tree 202, Bldg A, Chaowai Soho, Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (139 1056 6742, info@thefigtree.cn) www.thefigtree.cn 朝阳区朝阳区朝外大街朝外Soho702室A座

European The Bookworm Bright, airy and filled with books. Offers light sandwiches, salads and pastas as well as heartier fare.

Wine list features 40 options. 1) Mon-Sat 8am-8pm,Sun 8am-5pm. The First Courtyard, Hegezhuang Village, Shunyi District.

(6431 2108, books@beijingbookworm. com, kidsclub@beijingbookworm. com); 2) Daily 9am-2am. Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6586 9507, books@beijingbookworm.com, kidsclub@beijingbookworm.com) www.chinabookworm.com 书虫书吧, 1) 顺义区崔各庄 乡，何各庄村一号院; 2) 朝阳区工体北路4号院 The Orchard Daily noon-3pm, 6-9pm. From Jingshun Lu, turn left (west) at Shunbai Lu Intersection, (turn at the driveway just west of the Hegezhuang Village Sign), Shunyi District. (6433 6270) 果园, 顺义区崔各庄乡何各 庄村(过何各庄村路标往南转) Park Side Bar & Grill This family-friendly restaurant featuring a pleasant garden terrace is ideal for both dating or family dining.

Burgers, steaks, wings, salads, sandwiches, steaks and other Western fare, comple-

mented by a healthy wine list. Daily 10amlate. 9-6 Jiangtai Xilu (opposite Rosedale Hotel), Chaoyang District. (6444 6555, info@parksidebeijing.com) www.parksidebeijing.com 园景, 朝阳区将台西路9-6号（珀丽 酒店对面） Pavillion The outdoor patio and spacious garden provide ample running space for kids, and the hearty family-friendly food will be a winner with mom and dad, too. Daily 10am2am. Gongti Xilu (opposite west gate of Workers’ Stadium), Chaoyang District. (6507 2617) www.pavillionbeijing.com 万龙腾飞, 朝 阳区工体西路（工人体育场西门对面） The Pomegranate Don’t let the courtyard setting (complete with an actual pomegranate tree) fool you into thinking a meditative experience awaits: it’s all about carbo-loading and the sports channel here. Tue 3pm-late, WedSun noon-late. 19 Kaifa Lu, Xibaixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 2558) 石榴 园, 顺义区后沙峪西白辛庄开发路19号 Schoolhouse Canteen The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu Great Wall serves casual Western food and affords great views of the Great Wall from its outdoor terrace. The menu focuses on lite Italian fare and kid-friendly options, as well as homemade ice cream and desserts. Available for overnight stays, parties and events. On-site activities include glass blowing and art classes for kids. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-8pm. 12 Mutianyu Village, Huairou District. (6162 6506/6287) www.schoolhousecanteen.com 小园, 怀柔 区慕田峪村12号 Seasons Caters to Shunyi residents’ wide swath of tastes with a juice bar, dining room and a Chairman Mao-themed cigar lounge.

Complimentary shuttle service available. MonThu 9.30am-9pm, Fri-Sun 9.30am-9.30pm.

W-01, Sky Place, 38 Fuqian Yijie, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6450 8234) 时尚之味, 顺义 区天竺镇府前1街38号天韵广场W-01店 Vineyard Cafe This hutong cafe, specializing in comfort food and comfy couches, is both hip and sensible, and their hearty English breakfasts are excellent weekend brunch fare. Good pizza and excellent beer selection. Voted “Outstanding Non-Hotel Brunch” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11.30am-11.30pm. 31 Wudaoying Hutong (just north of the Confucius temple), Dongcheng District. (6402 7961, info@vineyardcafe.cn) www.vineyardcafe.cn 葡萄院儿, 东城区五道营胡同31号

French Boucherie Michel Opened by a young French butcher of the old school, this artisanal shop and restaurant has gained a wide following with its selection of high-grade beef, veal, lamb, and pork (50-110 RMB per kg).

Patrons also recommend the pates, sausages (including merguez) and Parisian-style hams.

Freshly roasted chicken, quiches, frozen dishes such as coq au vin, as well as a range of well priced French wines are also for sale.

The small French restaurant upstairs delivers the same meat, now cooked, in a cozy checkered-tablecloth setting or, in season, on the curbside patio. Daily 9am-8pm. 1/F, Jiezuo Dasha, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District.

(6417 0489, boucheriemichel@hotmail.com) 米歇尔肉店, 朝阳区幸福村中路杰座大厦底层 Brasserie Flo Superb, if pricey, French cuisine (the chateaubriand, in particular, is outstanding, and the wine list is good). This restaurant also has a pleasant playroom for children, complete with toys, arts and crafts, and, on weekends, an ayi keeping things real.

Voted “Outstanding French” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11am3pm, 5.30-11pm. Rainbow Plaza (Longbo Guangchang), 16 Dongsanhuan Beilu (south of the Great Wall Sheraton), Chaoyang District. (6595 5135/9) www.flo.cn 北京福楼餐 厅, 朝阳区东三环北路16号隆博广场二层 Seasons Cafe/Creperie Madeleines are overrated; French children fill up on crepes.

What’s not to like about a thin pancake wrapped around a favorite filling? And get this: You can expose your kid to art in one of the neighboring galleries before or after your meal. How’s that for a combo? Tue-Sun 10.30am-6.30pm. 2 Jiuxianqiao Lu (beside China Art Seasons), Dashanzi Art District, Chaoyang District. (8456 4823) 北京季节咖啡 店, 朝阳区酒仙桥路2号院内

Fusion Bei Daily 5.30-10.30pm. B1/F, The Opposite House, Bldg 1, Sanlitun Village, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6410 5230, info@beirestaurant.com) www.beirestaurant. com 北, 朝阳区三里屯路11号三里屯Village1号 楼瑜舍地下1层 Cafe Cha The sumptuous buffet at this Shangri-la Hotel restaurant features an international and ever-changing selection, including sushi and sashimi station, pastas, pizzas, Thai laksas and Tandoori specialities.

Their dessert section is a show-stopper. RMB 428, plus 15% service charge Fri evening to Sun lunch, RMB 328 plus 15% service charge for lunch Mon-Fri, RMB 378 plus 15% service charge for dinner buffet Sun-Thu evenings.

Daily breakfast 6-10am, lunch 11.30am2.30pm, dinner 5.30-9.30pm. Shangri-La Hotel, 29 Zizhuyuan Lu, Haidian District.

(6841 2211 ext 2715) http://www.shangrila.com/en/property/beijing/shangrila/dining/ restaurant/cafecha 咖啡Cha, 海淀区紫竹院路 29号香格里拉饭店 Olio Friendly English-speaking waitstaff dish out fusion European and Asian pastas, sandwiches and entrees (RMB 49-169) at this Singaporean-run restaurant-cafe. Daily 10am9pm. B124, B1/F, China Central Place (basement of Shin Kong Place), 77-79 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 7882) www.olio.sg 欧流餐厅, 朝阳区建国路77-79号华贸购物中心 地下1层124号 Piazza Cafe On a sunny day parents can enjoy pleasant outdoor seating in the garden piazza, while the kids spend time in the well-stocked playroom. Families can expect a cozy, homey atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a good meal while browsing books or using their free Wi-Fi. Great kid options including the Do It Yourself (DIY) margarita pizza, and avocado and cucumber roll. Healthy menu options include cucumber and carrot sticks with yogurt dip, and sautéed chicken with sweet corn and pine nuts. Daily 11am-9.30pm. South gate of Capital Paradise, Shunyi District. (8046 7788/2020) 翰风 餐厅, 顺义区名都园南门外

German Der Landgraf Based on the famous German restaurant dating back to 1639, this longrunning restaurant in Fangzhuang opened in 1999 and serves a range of German cuisine and a variety of imported German beers, from Pilsner, Lager and Weizen beer to Cologne Kölsch. The 700-sq-meter interior is designed to resemble a typical German pub with a bar-counter in the middle of the restaurant and a large copper beer cooling system hanging from the ceiling serving fresh draft beer. Menu items include Munich sausage with sweet mustard, bockwurst, baked pork knuckle and more (full menu online). A second location is at The Great Wall at Badaling and features a 100-squaremeter dining room and terrace, as well as a German buffet. Available for special events and by reservation only (see website and contact the Fangzhuang store for more details). Daily 11am-1am. 2A Pufang Lu, Fangzhuang, Fengtai District. (6768 2664, landgraf@der-landgraf.com) http://bedebeer. com/der-landgraf/english/ 兰特伯爵, 丰台区 方庄蒲芳路甲2号 German Food Center The answer to all your sandwich needs can be found at this long-running Maizidian deli selling domestic and imported meats, sausages, bread, cof-

Family Dining

fee, cakes and other imported items. Daily 9.30am-7pm. 105 Binduyuan Mansion, 15 Zaoying Beili, Maizidian (800m east of Nongzhanguan Beilu), Chaoyang District. (6591 9370) 德国食品店, 朝阳区麦子店枣营北里 15号宾都苑公寓105号(长城饭店南侧,农展馆北 路往东走800米路北) South German Bakery, Cafe Konstanz and Bodenseestube Provides over 20 varities of German and European rye, wheat and white breads (Alpenschpitz, Mohn Stange, Kaese Stange, toast bread and baguettes), along with tasty homemade cakes and sweets. Upstairs you’ll find Cafe Konstanz and Bodenseestube, a south German restaurant that offers great weekend breakfasts (SatSun, 8.30am-3pm), business lunches, dumplings, sausages, sauerkraut, cheese noodles and hearty German dinners. Sandwiches and quality coffee also available. Available for private parties and events. Daily 9am-10pm (restaurant), 7am-10pm (bakery). 27 Haoyun Jie (Lucky Street), 29 Zaoying Lu, Chaoyang District. (5867 0201, sales@germanbakery. com.cn, michael@germanbakery.com.cn) www.germanbakery.com.cn 德南面包房, 朝阳 区枣营路29号好运街27号

Indian & Pakistani Ganges Indian Restaurant This is a good restaurant for the gastronomically adventurous. Spicy dishes can be cooked without the heat upon request (probably a good idea for the young ones). There’s a play area with two kids’ tables and chairs, plus books and crayons mixed in with other toys. For smaller diners, there are a few highchairs available.

In a nutshell, this is delicious Indian food in a comfortable environment that won’t break your budget. Co-winner of “Best India/Pakistani” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 10am-11pm. 1) 138A, B1/F, The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6587 2999); 2) S93-3, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6416 0181/6121); 3) 5/B, Hairun International Apartment, 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5135 8353); 4) Sancaitang Xiezi Lou, 160 Chengfu Lu, Haidian District. (6262 7944) www.ganges-restaurant.com 恒河印 度餐厅, 1) 朝阳区光华路9号世贸天阶地下1层 138A; 2) 朝阳区三里屯路19号三里屯Village南 区S93-3; 3) 朝阳区将台路2号海润国际公寓 底商5号; 4) 海淀区成府路160号三才堂写字 楼1层13号 Harry’s Kitchen Catering services in the Shunyi area featuring South Asian, Middle Eastern and Western food, including seasonal specialties. Also provides catering related items and services. 11-2pm, 5pm-9.30pm. Inside Wanke City Garden, Shunyi District. (139 1169 0944, 8049 7941, harryskitchen@hotmail.com) 北京巴顺海力餐 厅, 顺义区万科城市花园内 Shree Kanchan’s Kitchen This Shunyi area restaurant serves authentic Indian food, including chicken tandoor, chicken tikka and a good range of curries, at decent prices.

11am-2.30pm, 5-10.30pm. 8 Laiguangying Donglu (next to Western Academy of Beijing), Chaoyang District. (8470 1306/8, 136 0107 3978) 朝阳区来广营东路8号北京京西学校旁 The Taj Pavilion This is a great place for a family meal and would make for a wild birthday experience for teens – a visit to the Cosmic Bowling Alley next door followed by a classic Indian meal. Lille kids Kids unfamiliar with Indian cuisine might find certain dishes a bit too exotic, though many dishes can be prepared with less fiery spice. Try the Chicken tikka, tandoori gobi (cauliflower kebabs), or dal palak (yellow lentils cooked with spinach). As a side note, the bathrooms are located outside the restaurant in the hallway.

Co-winner of “Best India/Pakistani” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards.

Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm. 1) 1/F, West Wing, China World Shopping Mall (next to KFC), Chaoyang District. (6505 5866); 2) 3/F, Holiday Inn Lido, Jiangtai Lu, Shoudu

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Family Dining

Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6436 7678, 6437 6688 ext 3811); 3) L222, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District.

(8046 3238) http://www.thetajpavilion.com 泰姬楼印度餐厅, 1) 朝阳区国贸西楼1层肯德基 旁边; 2) 朝阳区首都机场路将台路丽都假日酒 店广场缤纷廊3层; 3) 顺义区天竺镇裕翔路99号 欧陆时尚购物中心L222室

Italian Agrilandia Italian Farm Fireplace Restaurant A farm, a rustic restaurant, an agri-tourism destination – Agrilandia is many things to many people. On a warm spring day, your kids will run around its green lawn, pet small furry creatures, go swimming and eat hearty Italian dishes made from locally grown ingredients. Dogs are also welcome.

Daily 9am-9pm. Baigezhuangcun, Mapozhen, Shunyi District. (6940 7700, 130 0127 1094) www.agrilandia.cn 意大利农场壁炉餐厅, 顺义 区马坡镇白各庄村 Capri This neighborhood Italian joint does pizza, pasta, lasagna, salads and steaks, with friendly service. Yong’an Dong Li, Jianguomen Wai Dajie (Mi Yang Tower, Level 1),, Chaoyang District. (6568 2418, capri_ristorante@163.com) 卡布里意大利餐厅, 朝阳区 永安东里，建国门外大街 Casa Mia Italian classics, many of them mild enough for pickier palates. In the spring and summer, pick one of the outside tables at the Sunshine 100 branch and you can keep an eye on the kids as they work up an appetite at the playground right next door. Daily 10am-10pm. 1/F, Bldg C, Sunshine 100, 2 Guanghua Lu (next to children’s playground), Chaoyang District. (5100 2522) 卡萨米亚意大 利餐吧, 朝阳区光华路2号阳光100国际公寓C座 底层(儿童游乐园) Elisa’s Italian Restaurant Fine Italian dining it ain’t, but that’s part of Elisa’s appeal if you ask us – decent food, decent prices.

Instead of a romantic evening à la Lady and the Tramp, you’d best save Elisa’s for a casual group of family or friends. Menu features dishes ranging from capricciosa pizza to gnocchi and saltimbocca, a patrician meal of tender grilled veal escallops with fresh Parma ham and sage. Daily 11am-11pm. 1) 100m south of the Yansha Shopping Center, Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6500 6407); 2) C6, 29 Zaoying Lu, Chaoyang District. (5867 0291/0292) 爱丽莎意大利餐厅, 1) 朝阳区东三环北路(燕莎商场往南100米); 2) 朝 阳区枣营路29号好运街C6 Michael’s Place Italian Ristorante Despite the comfortable decor, brick pizza oven, kiddie corner and decent selection of imported wines, Michael’s free-n-quick home delivery might just be its strongest asset.

Pizzas and pastas range RMB 48-75. Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. L112, Euro Plaza, (Opposite the Exhibition Hall), Central Villa District, Shunyi District. (8042 4457, 8046 3359) 北京 明天意大利餐厅, 顺义区顺义区天竺镇裕翔路 99号欧陆时尚购物中心一层112号（国展对面） Napoli/Casablanca Despite its basement location, Napoli’s sunny, Mediterranean decor (white stucco walls and marine blue hues) should have you lighten your mood even before you’ve ordered. Friendly, thoughtful service and warm bread keep the optimism ticking over until your food arrives. Pizzas (large sizes RMB 58-85) account for around half of the menu, which also offers a range of Middle Eastern dishes. A cracker-thin base and fine balance of toppings versus cheese distinguished the Quattro Stagioni, but there are over ten other choices. Alternatives to pizza include penne and spaghetti (RMB 3875), antipasti, lasagna and ravioli – just don’t go expecting a huge selection. A generous weekday lunch buffet includes an ample antipasti spread, salad, a choice of three mains (lasagna, pizza margherita or the daily special), a glass of wine, beer of soft drink and dessert served with coffee or tea goes for a most agreeable RMB 88. Daily 11am-2pm, 5-11pm. B1/F, Prosper Center, 5 Guanghua

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Lu (west of Kerry Centre), Chaoyang District.

(6562 8576) 意大利那布勒斯比萨, 朝阳区朝阳 区光华路5号世纪财富中心地下1层

Japanese Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar Watch and listen to your food as it sizzles and cooks to your preference. Haru impresses with sleek decor and the quality of the food. Kids will be entertained by the chefs flaming hot plates, and the large portion servings mean this is a great place to spend a few extra kuai on a family night out. 1) Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-10pm. 902 Pinnacle Plaza, Jingshun Lu, Shunyi District. (8046 5112); 2) Unit N430, 3/F, Sanlitun Village North, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District.

(6415 2112) 尚水长廊铁板烧餐厅, 1) 顺义 区天竺镇开发区荣祥广场902; 2) 朝阳区朝阳 区三里屯路11号院（Village北区）能号楼三层 N4-30单元 Kurazen With bamboo trees and a cross-laid slate and pebble floor, Kurazen’s foyer resembles a Japanese garden and leads to an open kitchen where teppanyaki chefs display their knife and grill skills. The menu is extensive, with fish all offered raw or as teppan-options.

The RMB 68 lunch buffet includes noodles, sauteed vegetable dishes, sushi and more.

The preponderance of Japanese customers is a sign of its authenticity. Daily 11.30am2.30pm, 5.30-10.30pm. 21 Haoyun Jie, Zaoying Lu, Chaoyang District. (5867 0281/2) 藏善 日本料理店, 朝阳区枣营路好运街21号

Korean Shanggu City Korea Village BBQ Your usual Korean BBQ staples – beef, lamb, pork, vegetables – served by waitresses in ethnic dresses who speak limited English but do have a picture menu. Daily 10am-9.30pm.

Adjoining the Jenny Lou’s near Lane Bridge, 5 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District.

(8470 3016) 尚古城韩国烧烤, 朝阳区来广营 东路5号 Thanks Giving This Korean barbecue restaurant on Lucky Street boasts an extensive menu or grillable goodies, as well as healthy soups, porridge and bibimbap. A8 Lucky Street, 1 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5867 0286) 千手予健康烤肉专门店, 朝阳区朝阳区朝阳公园路1号A8(近好运街)

Mediterranean Argo Daily 11.30am-11pm. 59 Wudaoying Hutong (100 meters west of Vineyard Café), Dongcheng District. (8403 9748) 东城区五道营胡同59号 The Olive Cafe Salads, sandwiches, dinner, health food, juice and desserts. Outdoor dining on warm days. Also serving weekend brunch. Voted “Outstanding Mediterranean” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 10.30am-10.30pm. 17 Gongti Beilu (opposite north gate of Workers’ Stadium), Chaoyang District. (6417 9669) 朝阳 区工体北路17号 Taverna Daily noon-2.30pm, 6-10.30pm.

1949-The Hidden City, Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu (behind Pacific Century Place), Chaoyang District. (6501 8882, oft@elite-concepts.com) www.elite-concepts.com 朝阳区工 体北路4号院 (盈科中心南面)

Middle Eastern Alameen This unassuming but welcoming Middle Eastern haven behind the German embassy is owned and managed by a Palestinian/Lebanese pair. Arabic staples like hummus and baba ghanoush (both RMB 20) are good, and the kibbeh (RMB 25 – fried croquettes stuffed with minced beef) is absolutely delightful. These appetizers are quite filling, so nibble strategically if you plan to take on the whole stuffed lamb (RMB 1,100; order 12 hours ahead). Customers here tend to stick around after meals chatting and sipping

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coffee, which fosters a warm atmosphere, especially convivial with the sweet smell of hookah smoke (RMB 40) wafting through the dining room. Daily 9am-midnight. 2 Sanlitun Xiwu Lu, Chaoyang District. (8451 7489) 朝阳 区朝阳区三里屯西五街西2号 Biteapitta Falafels, hummus, sandwiches and shawarma. Set meals available. Good value for money. Voted “Outstanding Middle Eastern” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11am-11pm. 2/F, Tongli Studio (same block as Le Petit Gourmand), Sanlitun Houjie, Chaoyang District. (6467 2961, ilovepitta@biteapitta.com) 吧嗒饼, 朝 阳区三里屯后街同里2层 Rumi Beijing’s only purveyor of Persian cuisine in a stylish minimalist setting. The owners’ daughter helped design and outfit the small playroom. Let your kids judge her interior design choices while you chow down on the city’s best hummus. Children can pick from the children’s menu and park themselves in highchairs. Voted “Outstanding Middle Eastern” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 11.30ammidnight. 1A Gongti Beilu (opposite Zhaolong Hotel), Chaoyang District. (8454 3838) www. rumigrill.com 入迷, 朝阳区工体北路甲1号兆 龙饭店对面 Za’atar Shunyi’s Lakeview Place restaurant Za’atar is named after an essential Arabic spice blend, which you can sample with oil and drizzled on warm pita bread, fresh from the oven. Try the grilled chicken, fish, oven-roasted lamb knuckle, or the layered vegetable casserole known as maklouba. For dessert, children will enjoy the mixed assortment of rich baklava or milk-and-rose-water pudding served with fresh fruits. Daily 10am10pm. Unit 2, Bldg 3, Lakeview Place (by Dragon Bay Villas), Shayu Huanlu, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8042 2248) www.zaatarbj. com 百里香阿拉伯餐厅, 顺义区后沙峪镇沙峪 环路3号2单元

Pizza Cherish Pizza Order your pizza online and get it delivered promptly. Check the website (www.4008990990.com) for details.

10am-10.30pm. 66 Xia Guangli (Behind Gateway), Chaoyang District. (4008 990 990, 8446 6834, cherishpizza@126.com) www.4008990990.com 珍味时比萨, 朝阳区 霞光里66号 Hutong Pizza With a quaint, cozy atmosphere, this pizza joint located just off the beaten track of Houhai offers arguably the best pizza (RMB 60-120) in Beijing. The veggie burgers are also hugely popular. Daily 11am-11pm. 9 Yindingqiao Hutong, Xicheng District. (8322 8916) 胡同比萨, 西城区银锭桥胡同9号 Tube Station Pizza The 700-sqm Gongti branch appeals to families craving tabletipping NYC-style pizzas (i.e. the Greek Mama, Plain Jane, Margritte etc.) and other kid-friendly favorites including onion rings, fries, wings and plenty of beer for dad. Voted “Outstanding Pizza” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Mon-Thu 11am-10.30pm, Fri-Sun 11am-midnight.

Inside Workers’ Stadium North Gate (next to Vics), Chaoyang District. (6553 5253); 2) Mon-Fri 10am-10pm, Sat-Sun 10am-midnight.

1 Fuyuanmen (400 meters north of Beijing University West Gate, on the northwest corner of the intersection), Haidian District.

(6252 8057); 3) Tue-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm. Bldg B, Youyan Dasha, 2 Beitaiping Zhuang Qiao, Xicheng District. (8201 4899) www.thekrosnest.com乌巢, 1) 朝阳区 工体北门内; 2) 海淀区福缘门1号 (从北大西门 往北走400米，在路口的西北角); 3) 西城区北 太平庄桥2号有研大厦B座

many Russian families are loyal patrons. Who can argue with hearty portions of well-priced kid-friendly fare like chicken Kiev, steaks, pork schnitzel and mashed potatoes? Thanks to the heavy mayo application, even the salads make it down most kids’ throats. Daily 10am10pm. 1) 1 Xiyangguan Hutong, Dongzhimennei Zhongjie, Chaoyang District. (6403 1690); 2) 5-15 Dongzhimennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (8407 8158, 6403 1896) 彼得堡俄餐 厅, 1) 朝阳区东直门内北中街西羊管胡同1号; 2) 东城区东直门内大街5-15号

Southeast Asian Malacca Legend This elaborate Malaysian restaurant boasts serene water views and zesty Southeast Asian cuisine. Also offers catering services and delivery in the Shunyi area. Daily 11am-10pm. 1) 1/F Building B, Ocean International Center, 58 East 4th Ring Road, Chaoyang District. (5908 0075); 2) On the banks of Luoma lake, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8049 8902) 马六甲传奇, 1) 朝阳区 朝阳区东四环路58号远洋国际中心B座1层; 2) 顺义区后沙峪镇罗马湖畔 Nyonya Kitchen Nyonya Kitchen devotes an entire page of the menu to the introduction of Peranakan cuisine and clearly describes each of their dishes. In an effort to keep it authentic, they import their spices and curry pastes from Malaysia. Both branches are a 15- to 20-minute taxi ride away from the main expat haunts, but you won’t regret the trip. The Fuchengmen branch is the larger of the two and features an attractive covered courtyard and a weekend buffet, although you might prefer Lido purely for door-to-door convenience. The Nyonya specialty curries are essential. 1) Daily 11am-10pm. 1/F, Beijing Downtown Holiday Inn, 98 Beilishi Lu, Xicheng District. (6833 3669); 2) Daily 11am-9.30pm. Across from Gaojiayuan Middle School, opposite the Lido Hotel, Chaoyang District. (6433 7377) http://www.nyonyakitchen.com/customize/mlkitchen/index.php 娘惹厨房, 1) 西城区西城区北礼士路98号北 京金都假日饭店1层; 2) 朝阳区高家园中学丽 都饭馆对面 Thyme Space Shunyi restaurant features a lawn, multiple floors, funky decor (i.e. hanging oversized birdcages) and a menu serving Thai-style rice noodles, beef satay, curries and Western dishes. 3 Shunhuang Lu, Sunhe, Shunyi District. (8459 5868) 顺义区孙河乡 顺黄路3号 The Yard This sister restaurant of Nyonya Kitchen oozes colonial elegance and polished charm. The menu, featuring specailty dishes like ki hokkien mee (yellow noodles in hokkien dark sauce with seafood and pork) and yam kueh (steamed yam cake garnished with minced pork and fried shallots) satisfies even the most traditional of Malaysian palates, and weekends feature an all-you-can-eat brunch (RMB 68 for adults, RMB 48 for kids, free for tots under 3). Daily 11am-10pm. 3 Kaifa Jie, Xibaixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District.

(8049 9449, theyardbeijing@yahoo.com) http://www.yardbeijing.com 庭院餐厅, 顺义 区后沙峪西白辛庄开发街3号

Thai

Russian

Bali Papaya Bali Papaya offers authentic Indo-Thai cuisine in a venue sporting wooden décor paired with bright colors, contemporary Gamelan music and Indonesian and Thai art. The flavors on offer are akin to the real deal - try the refreshing Thai Beef Salad with its zing of lemongrass and cilantro and the Indonesian Fried Rice set, which includes fried egg and chicken, along with tender peanut sauced chicken satay. The Thai Green Curry comes with a kick (rice, however, is not included). Daily 11am-11pm. 2/F, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (5208 6029) 朝阳区三里屯路81号那 里花园2层

Traktirr Pushkin Pick the right time (lunch, early dinner) and you’ll understand why so

Serve the People This long-running Thai restaurant has a loyal crowd and the Sanlitun

*listings in orange are new to Directories branch has a pleasant terrace. Menu items include mango salad, green chicken curry, pad thai and tom kha gai (coconut chicken soup, a blend of spicy, sour and sweet). The more spacious Shunyi location is elegantly decorated and overlooks a small lake, with a small lawn and kid’s playground equipment on the grounds, making it suitable for families and private parties. Voted “Outstanding Thai” in the Beijinger’s 2010 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 11am-11pm.

Feijiacun Yuan, 8 Laiguangying Donglu (near the Cuigezhuang police station), Chaoyang District. (8470 4792); 2) Daily 10.30am10.30pm. 1 Sanlitun Xiwujie (next to Athena), Chaoyang District. (8454 4580) 为人民服务, 1) 朝阳区来广营东路8号费家村院(近崔各庄派 出所); 2) 朝阳区三里屯西五街1号

Vegetarian Elaine’s Vegetarian Restaurant and Bar Elaine’s quaint little garden supplies generous portions of Chinese vegetarian fare. The selection of over 100 well-portioned dishes, including the requisite imitation meat dishes (including imitation “duck,” recreated soy “chicken” and sizzling bogus “beef”) are popular with both vegetarian and carnivorous diners. Daily 11am-2pm, 4.30-9.30pm. Walk 800m along the banks of Luoma Lake, 100m north of Luoma Roundabout, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8048 5088) 素心小筑, 顺义 区后沙峪镇罗马环岛向北100米左转, 沿罗马 湖畔800米 Jing Fun Veggie Cafe Serves international cuisine using no artificial ingredients or MSG in a clean and sleek environment. The menu features dishes made from mushrooms and other pure and natural ingredients. They also make their own tempeh and eggless cake.

1 Bishui Yuntian, Wanliu Zhonglu, Haidian District. (8256 5205, jingfancafe@yahoo.com. cn) 净饭, 海淀区海淀区万柳中路碧水云天底商 1号楼(海淀国税局西) Veg On 11am-10pm. Solana, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (5905 6301/6) 朝阳区朝阳区朝阳公园 路6号蓝色港湾国际商区

Family Health Directory Clinics & Hospitals Agape Counselling and Training Centre 9am-5pm. Room 1325, Golden Land Building, 32 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6467 2362 ext. 12) 爱在人间, 朝阳区亮马桥路32号 高斓大厦1325室 AmAsia International Medical Center Formerly known as American-Sino Hospital, AmAsia International Medical Center focuses on meeting women’s and children’s healthcare needs in a warm and relaxing environment. AmAsia uses the latest international medical technology and is staffed by English-speaking doctors experienced in the fields of obstetrics and gynecology. Nurses and midwives also speak English and the center can provide language services in both Japanese and Russian. Provides direct billing with most major international insurance providers, as well as allowing direct payments.

Daily 24hrs. 218 Xiaoguan Beili, Anwai Dajie, east of Olympic Center, Chaoyang District.

(6496 8888/5151) www.asog-beijing.com 东 方美华医院, 朝阳区安外大街小关北里218号 ( 奥体中心东) Amcare Women’s & Children’s Hospital This newly opened hospital near the Lido focuses on maternity services, women’s health and pediatrics. Foreign language support is available upon request.24-hr appointment service. 8am-4.30pm. 9 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6434 2388 24hr hotline, 800 610 6200) www.amcare.com.cn 北京美 中宜和妇儿医院, 朝阳区朝阳区芳园西路9号 Bayley & Jackson Medical Center Provides families with a wide range of services, including routine cleanings, x-ray, fillings, whitening, crowns, bridges and cosmetic.

Directories

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-4pm. 7 Ritan Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8562 9998, after-hours emergencies 8562 9990) www. bjhealthcare.com 庇利积臣医疗中心, 朝阳区 日坛东路7号

St. Regis Residence, the St. Regis Hotel, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(8535 1221) www.unitedfamilyhospitals.com 北京和睦家健康中心, 朝阳区建国门外大街21号 北京国际俱乐部饭店公寓楼地下一层

Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital Founded in 2003, Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital is the first hospital in Beijing with a water birth center to allow natural births. The hospital also researches male and female infertility, recurrent miscarriage, endometriosis, and more. Daily 8.30am-5pm. Building 18, Court 1, Xingheyuan, Jiayuan Road, Fengtai District. (153 1127 2132 Guo Ping) www. antaihospital.com 北京安太妇产医院, 丰台区 北京丰台嘉园路星河城1号院18号楼

Beijing United Family Hospital Beijing’s only private, international-standard hospital offering the full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient services. BJU has a team of over 60 certified expatriate and internationally trained physicians and surgeons. Clinics include pediatrics, OB/GYN, dental, ophthalmology, counseling, ENT, physiotherapy, TCM chiropractics and dermatology. It’s the first choice for many expatriates giving birth in China, and is the choice for referral from other hospitals without in-house birthing units. Wide range of medical and surgical specialties provided. The ICU and emergency room are open 24hrs. An independent blood bank operates on site. Direct billing is available with a range of insurance providers.

Consultation fees for first-time patients are RMB 323-1,294. Fees for return patients are RMB 174-971. 1) Mon-Sat 8.30am-5pm; Sun 8.30am-midnight. St Regis Wellness Center.

B1/F, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8532 1221); 2) Mon-Thurs 9.307.30pm, Fri-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm. 818, Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 5432); 3) Mon-Fri noon-8.30pm. 2/F Grand Summit, Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7005); 4) Mon-Sat 8.30am-5.30pm. 24-hour emergency care. 2 Jiangtai Lu (in the Lido area), Chaoyang District. (5927 7000, 5927 7120 (ER ), fax 5927 7200) www.unitedfamilyhospitals.com 北京和睦家医院, 1) 朝阳 区朝阳区建国门外大街21号国际俱乐部饭店地 下1层; 2) 顺义区顺义区天竺房地产开发区日祥 社区818号; 3) 朝阳区朝阳区第三使馆区二层; 4) 朝阳区将台路2号

Beijing Children’s Hospital Daily 6.30am10.30pm. 56 Nanlishi Lu, Xicheng District.

(6802 8401) 北京儿童医院, 西城区南礼士 路56号 Beijing Friendship Hospital This public hospital has direct billing arrangements with some insurers. The basic consultation fee is RMB 70, 100, or 200 according to the doctor’s level of expertise. Mon-Fri 8-noon, 1-5pm, Sat-Sun 8am-noon, 24hr emergency care. 95 Yong’an Lu, Xuanwu District. (6301 4411 ext 3482) www.bfh.com.cn 北京友谊医 院, 宣武区永安路95号 Beijing International SOS Clinic International standard clinic providing the full spectrum of medical services including family medicine, dental services, OB/GYN, ENT, ophthalmology, psychiatry, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and TCM. Staff is made up of highly trained professionals from all over the world. A 24hr call center provides medical assistance over the phone in English, Chinese and Japanese. The clinic has direct billing arrangements with all major insurance providers. Consultations cost USD 90. Daily 24hrs. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District. (6462 9112, 24hr: 6462 9100, china.inquiries@internati onalsos.com) www.internationalsos.com 北 京国际救援中心, 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中心 一座105室

Beijing United Family Shunyi Clinic Offers family medicine, a pediatric clinic, wom-

Family Dining

en’s health services, travel medicine, family counseling, physiotherapy and pediatric physiotherapy. Mon-Thu 9.30am-7.30pm, FriSun 9.30am-4.30pm. Unit 806, Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 5432, fax 8046 4383) www.unitedfamilyhospitals.com 北京和睦家医 院诊所, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场806号

Beijing Vista Clinic Medical services including family and internal medicine, OB/GYN, pediatrics, dentistry, ophthalmology, dermatology, ENT, TCM, physiotherapy, psychiatry, imaging laboratory and pharmacy service.

Also offers pre- and postnatal care and infant health check-ups. English-speaking staff onsite 24hrs a day. A consultation with a GP costs RMB 660. Direct billing with more than 40 international insurance providers.

Daily 24hrs. B29, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (8529 6618, fax 8529 6615, vista@vista-china.net) www.vistachina.net 维世达诊所, 朝阳区光华路1号嘉里 中心B29 Capital Children’s Clinic (Ritan) Pediatrics hospital offers a complete range departments, including respiratory, stomatology, internal medicine and TCM. Daily 24

Beijing New Century Harmony Pediatric Clinic As a satellite clinic of renowned Beijing New Century International Children’s Hospital, Beijing New Century Harmony Pediatric Clinic has a strong team of experienced pediatricians and nurses from China and overseas. Multilingual services are offered on a 24hr basis, consultations 9am-9pm. K-01, Building No. 19, Harmony Business Center, Liyuan Street, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District.

(6456 2599) www.ncich.com.cn 北京新世纪荣 和儿科门诊部, 顺义区北京市顺义区天竺镇丽 苑街荣和商业中心19号楼K-01 Beijing Tiantan Puhua International Hospital A private, international-standard hospital offering a range of emergency services and out patient care. Beijing Tiantan Puhua Hospital has a full, English speaking staff on call 24-hours. Medical services include: neurology and neurosurgery, Beijing’s only international standard podiatric center, occupational and physical theraphy, plastic surgery and and non-surgical cosmetic services, hand surgery, orthopedics, ENT, oncology, full physical check-ups starting at RMB 900, on-site imaging, laboratory and pharmacy services. Specialist consultations are RMB 200-800 and direct billing is available for more than 20 international insurance companies. 24-hour emergency care.

8.30am-5.30pm. 12 Tiantan Nanli, Chongwen District, 800m west of the south gate of the temple of heaven, Chongwen District.

(8911 6665, puhuachina@gmail.com) www. puhuachina.com, www.puhuachina.cn 北京天 坛普华医院, 北京天坛普华体检中心, 崇文区 天坛南里12号 Beijing United Family Jianguomen Health & Wellness Center Offers family medicine, counseling services, stress management, health screening, a dental clinic, and radiology, laboratory and cosmetic services. Mon-Fri 8.30am-3.30pm. B1/F, the

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Directories

Family Health

hours. 2 Yabao Lu (across from west gate of Ritan Park), Chaoyang District. (8569 5755/5756/5757 (registration)/5555 (main switchboard)/5352) 首都儿科研究, 朝阳区朝 阳区雅宝路2号 Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Dr. David Zhang is an American National Board Exam Certificated chiropractic doctor, a Texas licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, and a specialist in Chinese medicine. He provides chiropractic, physiotherapy, and other manual therapies for back pain, sciatica, and other conditions, as well as acupuncture and natural medicine treatments. Tue-Thu, Sat 9.30am-6.30pm. S110, 1/F, Beijing Internal Medical Center, Lufthansa Center Office Building, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6464 9828, 8448 3449) 北京国际医疗中心, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕莎中心写字楼1层 S110 Hong Kong International Medical Clinic, Beijing Beijing’s first joint-venture medical organization operates according to international standards, has a high-quality international administration system, highlevel medical staff, and warm service. A 24hr helpline offers medical support in English, Chinese and Japanese, and other languages on request. A basic consultation costs USD 58. Direct billing with 14 international insurers. Daily 9am-9pm (after 9pm minimal staff on duty). 9/F, office tower of the Swissotel, 2 Chaoyangmen Beidajie, Dongcheng District.

(6501 4260, 6553 2288 ext 2345/6/7) www. hkclinic.com 北京港澳国际医务诊所, 东城区朝 阳门北大街2号港澳中心瑞士酒店办公楼9层 International Medical Center (IMC) Foreign doctors on-site offering a wide range of medical services, including family medicine, psychological services, dental, Ob/Gyn, pediatrics and TCM. Drop-in services for travelers; x-rays and ultrasounds available on-site. English, Chinese, Arabic and Russian spoken. Daily 24hrs. S106, S111 Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561/2/3, 6465 1384/28, markeing@imcclinics.com) http://www.imcclinics.com/ 北京国际医疗中心, 朝阳区亮马桥 路50号燕莎中心写字楼1层S106 Marys Hospital for Women and Infants 8am-5pm. 5 Hepingli Beijie, Chaoyang District. (6421 6666) http://www.mary.net.cn/ 北京玛丽妇婴医院, 朝阳区和平里北街5号 (东 土城路北口） Naturopathic Medicine Dr. Melissa Rodriguez is a licensed, board certified Naturopathic Doctor from Ontario, Canada. She uses homeopathy, botanical medicine, nutrition, and other natural therapies that are effective and safe, to help her patients prevent illness and treat disease. Dr. Rodriguez is committed to working with you and your family to achieve your goals of optimal health.

International Medical Center-BeijingRm S106, Lufthansa Center Office Building, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561) www.drmelissarodriguez. com 朝阳区朝阳区亮 马桥路50号燕莎中心写字楼1层S106 Peking Union Medical College Hospital This state-run hospital has a reputable foreigners’ wing with departments including ENT, internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, dental, ophthalmology and OB/GYN. Most doctors are trained overseas and speak good English. Services and medicines are much cheaper than in private clinics, but expect longer waiting times. The birthing unit is considered to be the best in any of the Chinese hospitals and is popular among expats. Registration costs RMB 100-300, and the minimum consultation fee is RMB 200. Inpatient services require a minimum deposit of RMB 10,000/ day. Direct billing is available with some Asian insurance providers. Mon-Fri 8am5pm. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing (the foreigners’ wing is located behind and to the left of the main hospital entrance), Dongcheng District. (6529 5284, 24hr em, 6529 5269) www.pumch. ac.cn 北京协和医院, 东城区王府井帅府园1号 （接待外国人的区域在主楼的左后方） Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital A

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state-run hospital with a foreigners’ wing that’s very pleasant. Medical staff speak English, but don’t always have overseas training. Registration is RMB 100-300. Inpatient services require a minimum RMB 10,000 deposit. Mon-Fri 8am-noon, 1.30-5pm, Sat 8-11.30am. 24hr emergency care. Yinghua Dongjie, Heping Jie Beikou, Hepingli, Chaoyang District. (6422 2952, 8420 5122 (both numbers are valid for International Dept.)) 北京中日友好医院, 朝阳区和平里和平 街北口樱花东街 Smart Health Medical & Dental Center Offers medical services ranging from general consultations, family medicine and cardiology to pediatrics and more. Dental services available include: family dentistry, orthodontics, implant dentistry and teeth whitening. Also provides inpatient referral, mobile medical services and overseas consultations. Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. Rm 102/215, Lido Place, 6 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6437 6898, 136 9921 5851) www.hmmp. com.hk, www.smarthealth.cn 北京维健医疗中 心, 朝阳区将台路6号丽都广场102/215室

Dentists Arrail Dental Clinic Offers the full spectrum of non-surgical dentistry. All dentists speak English and some have overseas training. The Haidian branch specializes in cosmetic dentistry and implants. A basic consultation costs RMB 100 (first-time registration including a check-up and consultation costs RMB 100).

1) Mon-Thu 9am-8pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. Rm 201, The Exchange-Beijing, B118 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6567 5670); 2) Mon-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. Rm 208, CITIC Bldg, 19 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6500 6472/3); 3) Mon-Thu 9am5.30pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. 1/F, Somerset Fortune Garden, 46 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8440 1926/7/8); 4) MonThu 9am-6pm, Fri-Sun 9am-5pm. Rm 308, Raycom Infotech Park, Tower A, 2 Kexueyuan Nanlu, Haidian District. (8286 1956, 24hr: 139 1100 1367) www.arrail-dental.com 瑞尔 齿科, 1) 朝阳区建国路乙118号京汇大厦201室; 2) 朝阳区建国门外大街19号国际大厦208; 3) 朝阳区亮马桥路46号盛捷福景苑1层; 4) 海淀区 科学院南路2号融科资讯中心A座308室 Beijing International SOS Dental, Orthodontics Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services for the whole family, including routine cleaning, X-rays, fillings, whitening, crowns, bridges and cosmetic makeovers.

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District.

(6462 0333) 北京国际SOS齿科,畸齿矫正诊所, 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中心一座105室 Beijing United Family Dental Clinic The Beijing United Family Dental Clinic in Shunyi is a satellite clinic of Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics. Services include: oral hygiene instruction, fissure sealant, and topical fluoride as well as restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. Call for appointment.

The Beijing United Family Dental Clinic is located around the corner in the same shopping center as the Beijing United Family Clinic. This convenient location in Pinnacle Plaza provides high quality family-oriented dental care including preventive, restorative and cosmetic dentistry in a modern office.

Mon-Thu 9am-7.20pm, Fri-Sat 9am-5.30pm.

818 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 1102) 北京和睦家医院牙科诊所, 顺义区天竺开发区 荣祥广场818 Beijing United Family Dental, Orthodontics and Implant Center Provides comprehensive dental services for families, including cleaning, crown and bridges, dental implants, fillings, tooth whitening and more.

2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (6433 3960, 8532 1221, 6433 2345 Emergency) 朝阳区 将台路2号 Beijing Vista Dental Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services including teeth cleaning, whitening, gum treatment, white

December 2010

filling, crowns and bridges, root canal treatment, wisdom tooth extraction, orthodontics and implants. Daily 8.30am-6pm. Kerry Centre B29, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (vista@vista-china.net) www.vista-china.net 朝阳区维世达诊所，朝阳 区光华路1号北京嘉里中心B29 IMC Dental Clinic IMC dental clinic has the longest history of any expatriate dental service in Beijing. Provides general, cosmetic and restorative treatment. English, Chinese, Russian are spoken. Mon-Sat 9am-5pm.

S111, Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1384, 6465 1328, marketing@imcclinics.com) 北京国际医疗中心 牙科诊所, 朝阳区朝阳区亮马桥路50 号燕莎中 心写字楼1层S111 Joinway Dental Clinic Provides a full range of dental services at international standards, including preventative dental care, oral and teeth treatments (such as teeth cleaning and whitening), restorative treatment and orthodontics. Daily 8am-6pm. 11D, Bldg D, Oriental Kenzo Plaza, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District. (8447 6092/93, 132 6181 6708/139 0109 6692 English, joinway@dentalcn.com) www.dentalcn.com 久汇齿科, 东城区东直门外大街48号银座大厦 D座11D

Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga Fine Yoga Kids’ yoga on Sundays 2-3pm.

Daily 7am-9pm. Kids’ yoga on Sundays 23pm. Rm 501, 5/F, Bldg A, Soho New Town, 88 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (8589 6474, 5900 3192, 139 1176 7521) www.fineyoga.com 梵音瑜珈, 朝阳区建国路88号Soho现 代城A座501室 The Yurt at BJU Body libria is a new form of exercise that combines tai chi, yoga and pilates and replaces prenatal and motherbaby yoga classes at Beijing United Family Hospital. Instruction is in English. Call for details about class times. 2 Jiangtai Lu (at Beijing United Family Hospital, in the Lido area), Chaoyang District. (Contact 139 1050 3032) www.unitedfamilyhospitals.com 北京和 睦家医院, 朝阳区将台路2号

Spas Bodhi Therapeutic Retreat The two locations offer a variety of massage therapies, facials treatments and spa packages provided by skilled and experienced Chinese and Thai therapists. Prices range from RMB 100 to RMB 880. Daily 11am-12.30am. 17 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6417 9595) www. bodhi.com.cn 菩提会所, 朝阳区工体北路17号 Catherine de France Hair and Beauty Salon The C. de France team of international and local stylists, colorists and beauticians offer an holistic hair and beauty experience.

The salon mixes French chic with modern simplicity to create a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere offering a wide range of hair services and beauty treatments, including manicures and pedicures, waxing and tanning. Referral and VIP programs available. 1) Daily 10am-8pm. Nali Mall, Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 3029, riviera@cdefrance.com); 2) 2/F, Riviera Plaza, 5 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8470 4639, 150 1081 6856, riviera@cdefrance.com) C美发沙龙, 1) 朝阳 区三里屯路那里商城内; 2) 朝阳区来广营东路 5号香江广场2层 Eric Paris Salon Well-trained international stylists and colorists provide hair styling and a wide-range of beauty products. Also offer beauty, nails, waxing and tanning services.

Daily 10am-8pm. 1) 43 Sanlitun Houjie, Chaoyang District. (135 0137 2971); 2) Stall 123, Kerry Centre Shopping Mall, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (139 1179 8376); 3) Lido Hotel, 112 Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District.

(135 0107 5843) 爱丽克美容美发, 1) 朝阳区 三里屯后街43号; 2) 朝阳区光华路1号嘉里中心 商场123; 3) 朝阳区机场路112号丽都饭店

The Ritz-Carlton Spa (Financial Street) Weary moms should visit this spa for a day of decadence and beauty treatments. Lounge in the rooms devoted entirely to relaxation, try the suite with Aquatherapy and a Vichy shower, and sample the 11 rooms of treatment. A variety of massages and an exclusive couples suite available. Daily 6am-11pm.

B1/F, 1 Jinchengfang Dongjie, Financial Street, Xicheng District. (6629 6907) www. ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/BeijingFinancialStreet 丽思卡尔顿水疗中心, 西城区金城坊 东街1号楼一层和底商

Support Groups Beijing Mamas Yahoo Group Yahoo support group where you can “share resources, ask questions and grow as women and moms ... It does not matter what age your children are, if you are a mama who wants a safe place to ask parenting questions, make other mama friends, hang out, start playgroup meetings or mama nights out, ask for gear recommendations, sell your used gear, etc.... come and join.” http://groups.yahoo.com/ group/Beijing_Mamas/ Beijing Organic Consumers Association (BOCA) A Yahoo Group for Beijing residents interested in organic produce and consuming responsibly. Members share resources, ideas and information on how to shop and live responsibly in the city. Contact Liora (139 1030 6022, lioracc@yahoo.com) http:// health.groups.yahoo.com/group/beijing_organic_consumers Families with Children from China Network of foreign families who have adopted or seek to adopt orphans in China. (janeliedtke@yahoo.com, jane@ocdf.org) www.fwcc.org La Leche League Information and support for breastfeeding mothers. Monthly meetings are held in English, Chinese and French. Call for more information on meeting schedules or for breastfeeding help. (8559 1237, xiaohua68847@yahoo.com) Special Child Support Group This Yahoo group offers a meeting place for Beijing parents with special-needs children. Call 5130 3931 for info. (special_child_beijingsubscribe@yahoogroups.com) http://groups. yahoo.com/group/special_child_beijing/ The Nutritioneer Nutritionist Olivia Lee helps make eating better easier for you and your family. She provides a variety of personal and group nutrition counseling and coaching services, including: Group counseling workshops, corporate wellness nutrition talks; and helping individuals and families cope with the nutritional challenges of living in Beijing through counseling, supermarket familiarization tours and ayi coaching. (1581 082 2296, thenutritioneer@gmail.com) nutritioneer.net The Yin Yang Community Center MonSat 8am-8pm, Sun 8am-5pm. The First Courtyard, Hegezhuang Village (across from The Orchard; call for directions), Chaoyang District. (6431 2108) www.yinyangbeijing. com 易 阴阳社区中心, 朝阳区崔各庄乡何各 庄村一号院(果园对面）

Family Life Adoption Bridge of Love Adoption Service This government-run agency facilitates travel to the adoption site, as well as consulting, document translation and travel arrangements within China. Zhongmin Mansion, 7 Baiguang Lu, Xuanwu District. (6357 5792, 6358 9988 ext 1207) www.china-blas.org 爱之桥收养中 心, 宣武区白广路7号中民大厦 China Center of Adoption Affairs The government agency responsible for adoptions.

The agency usually prefers to work with adoption agencies rather than with individual applicants, and does not talk to adoptive

*listings in orange are new to Directories parents directly. Their website, however, is a good resource. 7 Baiguang Lu, Xuanwu District. (6357 5785) www.china-caa.org/frames/ index_unlogin_en.jsp 中国收养中心, 宣武区白 广路7号中民大厦 Karen Friedman Karen Friedman works with expats from around the world to facilitate adoption within China, conducting home study evaluations and assisting families throughout the adoption process. (5130 3107, 134 3900 9391, expat_adoption@yahoo.com)

Community Groups and Organizations Beijing International Christian Fellowship (BICF) BICF (Beijing International Christian Fellowship) is an international non-denominational church in Beijing China with people from over 70 nations. It is Multicultural, Bible-centered gathering for foreign passport holders. Services are conducted in 9 different languages including Korean, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, English, Chinese, Frech, etc. Visitors can attend Sunday services and classes in multiple locations. (8454 3468, information@bicf.org) www.bicf.org 北 京国际基督教联合会 The Capital Club This private club caters to Beijing’s senior business community and is a frequent site of International Newcomers Network meetings. 50/F, Capital Mansion, 6 Xinyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (8486 2225 ext 260, member@thecapitalclub.com) www.thecapitalclub.com 朝阳区新源南路6号 京城大厦50层 International Newcomers’ Network A networking and information resource for all newcomers to Beijing. Meetings are held on the last Monday of each month except December.

Function Rm, 3/F, Athletic Center, Capital Mansion, 6 Xinyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District.

(8486 2225 ext 110, innbeijing@hotmail. com) www.innbeijing.org 朝阳区新源南路6号 京城大厦康乐中心3层 International Vegetarian Club of Beijing Vegetarian information and restaurant listings in Chinese. www.ivu.org/ivcb/en/index.html Vegan Social Club Organizes social networking events (including a regular Thursday dinner) to promote a healthy and ecologically responsible lifestyle. (vegansocialclub@gmail. com) vegansocialclub.com

Domestic Help Beijing Ayi Housekeeping Service A family membership in this housekeeping service will give you access (with an additional fee) to a large pool of ayis who perform services such as babysitting, cooking and cleaning. Englishspeaking ayis available. Lifetime membership: RMB 300; price range: RMB 1,000-3, 000 per month. (6434 5647/48) www.bjayi.com 北京 家福来劳务服务 Beijing Ex-pat Housemaid Service Serving over 500 families in Beijing, this service offers a supply of English-speaking ayis trained to cook, clean, babysit and more. Price range: RMB 1,600 per month for 8-10 hours per day, 5-6 days per week. (6438 1634) www.expatslife.com 北京易杨家美信息咨询有限公司 JNY Home Service A professional housekeeping service company, they provide placement services for foreign families seeking full-time or part-time ayis in Beijing. Ayis are available for cleaning, ironing, cooking and babysitting. Some basic English-speaking ayis are available. Reference letters available. Part time RMB15-25 per hour,full time RMB2,500-3,500 per month. Rm 909A, Hua Shang Bldg,2 Yanjing Xili,Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. www.saybeijing.cn 朝阳区 朝阳区延静西里2号华商大厦909A室

Supermarkets April Gourmet Chain of stores purveying imported cheeses, olives and cold cuts, as

well as staples like dried pasta, canned tomatoes (and beans) and cereal. Prices can be high for goods that can seem a bit shopworn.

The Shunyi branch offers a small but constant “specials” section, which often features imported cookies and filter coffee. 1) 8am9pm. Outside South Gate of Capital Paradise, Shunyi District. (8046 4132); 2) Bldg 7, Richmond Park, 9 Fangyuan Xili, Chaoyang District. (8457 8116); 3) Daily 8am-midnight.

1/F Jiezuo Mansion, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (6417 7970); 4) Daily 8am-9pm. 1 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (8455 1245) 绿叶子食品店, 1) 顺义 区后沙峪乡白辛庄名都园南门外; 2) 朝阳区朝 阳区芳园西里9号院丽都水岸会所7号楼; 3) 朝 阳区三里屯幸福村中路杰作大厦1层; 4) 朝阳区 三里屯北小街1号 BHG Market Place Taiwan chain of upscale supermarkets has an extensive, albeit pricey, selection of goods and produce, including alcohol and organic products. 1) SMM06, SOLANA Lifestyle Shopping Park, Chaoyang District.; 2) SLG00, The Village at Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (6415 8226); 3) B1, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6530 5888) 1) 朝阳区蓝色港湾国际商区 SMM06号; 2) 朝阳区三里屯VillageSLG00号商铺; 3) 朝阳区建国路87号新光天地B1层 Carrefour French hypermarket offers a vast selection of imported wine, cheese, coffee, canned goods and much more. Wonderful variety – especially at the Guangqumenwai location – but the crowds can be thick. The Sanyuan Qiao store offers free delivery for purchases over RMB 500 – order by email customer@carrefour.com. 1) Daily 8.30am10.30pm. 6B Beisanhuan Donglu (beside the International Exhibition Center), Chaoyang District. (8460 1043); 2) 8.30am-10pm.

48 Jiukeshu Xilu, Tongzhou District. (5167 8911 ext.55); 3) Daily 8.30am-10.30pm. 31 Guangqu Lu, Chaoyang District. (5190 9508); 4) Daily 8.30am-10.30pm. 56A Zhongguancun Plaza, Haidian District. (5172 1516/7); 5) Daily 8am-10pm. 15, 2 Zone, Fangchengyuan, Fangzhuang, Fengtai District.; 6) Daily 8am-10pm. 54A Baishiqiao Lu (east of Beijing Zoo), Xicheng District. (8836 2729); 7) Daily 8am-10pm. 11 Malian Dao, Xuanwu District. www.carrefour.com.cn, e-shop.carrefour.com 家乐福, 1) 朝阳区北三环东路乙6号(中国国际 展览中心正门旁); 2) 通州区九棵树西路48号; 3) 朝阳区广渠路31号; 4) 海淀区中关村广场甲 56号; 5) 丰台区方庄芳城园二区15号; 6) 西城 区白石桥路甲54号; 7) 宣武区马连道11号 Jenny Lou’s These Western grocery stores have, along with the usual staples, fresh meat and cheese, unusual pasta shapes, unsweetened yogurt, fresh herbs … we could go on and on. 1) Bldg 5, Grasse Town, Songzhuang, Tongzhou District. (8951 6858); 2) Beijing Euro Village Branch, Shunyi District. (8046 2316, 8046 3302); 3) Yosemite Branch, Shunyi District. (8041 7063); 4) 8-9.30pm. Chateau Regalia Branch, Shunyi District. (6450 8108); 5) 9am-8pm. River Garden, Shunyi District. (8046 5109); 6) Daily 8am-10pm. Laiguangying Donglu (opposite Heping Hospital), Chaoyang District. (8470 1557); 7) Daily 7.30 am-10pm. Pinnacle Plaza, Shunyi District. (8046 2316/3302); 8) Daily 8am-10pm. Bldg 4, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District.

(5869 2253); 9) Daily 8am-9pm. Inside East Lake Villa Clubhouse, Chaoyang District.

(6467 8018); 10) Daily 8am-midnight. 4 Ritan Beilu (opposite to Fancaodi Primary School), Chaoyang District. (8563 0626); 11) Daily 8am-10pm. 6 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (6461 6928); 12) Daily 8am-midnight. South of Chaoyang Park’s West Gate, Chaoyang District. (6501 6249); 13) Daily 8am-midnight. Hairun International Apartment, 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5135 8338) http://www.jennyshop.com.cn/shop/index.php?gOo=Jenny.dwt 婕妮璐, 1) 通州区通 州区宋庄镇葛渠村格拉斯小镇5号楼底商; 2) 顺 义区顺义区欧陆苑别墅区对面; 3) 顺义区顺义 区优山美地别墅区; 4) 顺义区顺义区丽高王府 别墅区; 5) 顺义区裕京花园别墅区内; 6) 朝阳 区来广营东路和平医院对面; 7) 顺义区荣祥广

Directories 场; 8) 朝阳区东三环中路39号建外Soho4号楼; 9) 朝阳区东湖别墅会所里; 10) 朝阳区日坛北 路4号（芳草地小学对面）; 11) 朝阳区三里屯 北小街6号; 12) 朝阳区朝阳公园西门南侧; 13) 朝阳区将台路2号海润国际公寓底商

Family Health

丰台区分钟寺店，丰台区成寿寺路甲2号 Theresa’s Farm (1370 1277 398, will2bdone@yahoo.com) www.youjinongzhuang.com 天福园 Wal-Mart The big box retailer you know and love (or know and hate). Drum up a little odium as you cruise the uncharacteristically wide aisles looking for low, low prices on home decorating items along with groceries, clothing, electronics, sporting goods and more. Daily 7.30am-10.30pm. 1) B1-2/F A48 Zhichun Lu, Haidian District. (5873 3666); 2) Fuzhuohuayuan Plaza, Xuanwai Dajie, Xuanwu District. (6316 8905); 3) B1/F, Block B, Wanda Plaza, 93 Jianguo Road, Chaoyang District. (5960 3566) 沃尔玛超市, 1) 海淀区 知春路甲48号地下1-2层; 2) 宣武区宣外大街 富卓花园广场; 3) 朝阳区建国路93号万达广 场B座 B1层

Lee Pet PetSmart, America’s largest retailer of pet products and services, operates on this side of the globe under the name Lee Pet. Its Chaowai Soho branch is now Beijing’s largest pet store, offering not only a diverse range of imported products, but also in-house grooming (RMB 20-50), photography (from RMB 100) and kennel services (from RMB 50/day). Mon-Fri 10am-9pm, Sat-Sun 10am-9.30pm. 1) Bldg 4, Landgent Chateau, Guangqu Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8776 9602); 2) Rm 4119, 4F, Golden Resources Shopping Mall,1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District, Haidian District.

(8887 0706); 3) Unit 3097, Bldg A, Chaowai Soho, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5900 5499) www.leepet.com 乐宠, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区广渠路33号石韵浩庭04号楼 04底商; 2) 海淀区乐宠金源新燕莎MALL店,海 淀区远大路1号金源燕莎购物中心4层西侧4119（ 停车楼4层E28口）; 3) 朝阳区朝阳门外大街6号 朝外SOHO A座3层3097 Lohao City This organic goods and health food store sources most of its produce from its organic ranch in Miyun County, with the remainder (tropical fruits) imported from Taiwan. Highlights include 100% organic homemade soymilk, pickled vegetables and imported dry goods, including muesli, cookies and pasta, as well as organic and dairyfree chocolates. Check out the flower and plant shop with cute baby cacti and bonsai, as well as a corner devoted to an assortment of hi-tech Japanese pillows. 1) Daily 8am9pm. 608 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (8046 6242 ext 801); 2) Daily 8am-10pm. 52 Jingshun Lu (Near Sunhe Qiao), Shunyi District. (8459 0134); 3) Daily 8am-10pm. 103, Building 15, China Central Place, 6A Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6530 5181); 4) Daily 8am-10pm. Shop 101, Bldg 17, Central Park International, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(6533 6465); 5) Mon-Thu 8am-10pm, FriSun 8am-11pm. Bldg 5, 10A, 76 Baiziwan Nan Er Lu, Chaoyang District. (8772 4133 ext 806/807); 6) Daily 8am-10pm. 1/F, 108 Dongwaigongguan, Xinzhongjie, Chaoyang District. (6415 0104); 7) Daily 9am-10pm.

4B Haoyun Jie, Chaoyang District. (5867 0270/0265); 8) Daily 10am-9.30pm. 13104B, Beichen Lifestyle Plaza, No.8 courtyard, Beichen Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8498 5950) www.lohaocity.com 乐活城, 1) 顺义区 天竺荣祥广场608号; 2) 顺义区京顺路52号(靠 近孙河桥); 3) 朝阳区西大望路甲6号华贸公寓 15号楼103号; 4) 朝阳区朝外大街6号新城国际 二期17号楼101; 5) 朝阳区百子湾南二路76号 5号楼10A; 6) 朝阳区东直门外新中街东外公馆 底商108; 7) 朝阳区好运街乙4号; 8) 朝阳区北 辰东路8号院北辰生活广场131-04B The Home Depot This US home improvement chain is a one-stop shop for lovers of DIY. Find high quality products for your garden, home or garage. They also provide professional design and installation service.

Daily 9am-9pm. 1) 78 Xisihuan Zhonglu, Fengtai District. (6822 0606); 2) 2 Chengshousi Lu, Fengtai District. (8761 0606) 1) 丰台区西四环店，丰台区西四环中路78号; 2)

World Health Store 1) Mon–Fri 10.30am-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am–7.30pm.

Rm 2152, 1st Floor, Section A, North Tower, Soho Shangdu, 8 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (5900 2209, info@worldhealthstore. com.cn); 2) Mon-Thur 10am-8pm, Fri & Sat 10.30am.8.30pm, Sun 10.30am-8pm.

R09A, LB1, Euro Plaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8046 2524, info@worldhealthstore.com.cn) www.worldhealthstore.com.cn 世界健康品店, 1) 朝阳区 东大桥路8号SOHO尚都北塔A座一层2152; 2) 顺 义区天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆广场地下一层09A

Veterinarians Beijing KPK Veterinarian Hospital World Offers vaccinations and emergency care. 8.30am-9pm. 34 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6552 5829) 北京KPK动物 医院, 朝阳区朝阳区工体北路34号 Doctors Beck & Stone Pet Health Care Center Get full, international standard, pet care with open Western and highly trained Chinese veterinarians, nurses and medical technicians. Hospitals are also emergency crisis centers. Ambulances available for collection and drop off of pets. Daily, 24 hours.

1) Shop LB05, Euro Plaza,99 Yu Xiang Lu, Shunyi District, Shunyi District. (8046 2886, 135 0103 0572 (emergencies)); 2) Unit 104, Tower B, Bldg 3, Houxiandaicheng, BaiziwanLu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District.

(8776 6346, 135 0103 0572 (emergencies)) www.vetinChina.com 思威（北京）国际动物 医院有限公司, 1) 顺义区顺义区天竺镇 裕祥路 99号欧陆广场LB05; 2) 朝阳区北京市朝阳区百 子湾路后现代城3栋B座104底商 Fangzhuang Banlü Veterinary Hospital Daily 8.30am-10pm. 23 Nansanhuan Donglu, Fengtai District. (6760 5989) 方庄伴侣动物医 院, 丰台区南三环东路23号 International Center for Veterinary Services (ICVS) ICVS is a professionally managed, full service international standard veterinary hospital. Services include internal medicine, hospitalization, spay/neuter and all other surgeries, dentistry, dermatology, blood tests, laboratory diagnostics, X-rays, ultrasound, legal vaccinations, prescription pet foods, obedience training, import/export advice, pet adoption counseling and more.

Boarding kennel, grooming salon and pet shop available. All services in Mandarin and English. Licensed rabies vaccinations.

Mon-Sat 8am-8pm; Sun 10am-7pm (by appointment). Kent Center, 29 Liangmaqiao Lu, Anjialou (shares a courtyard with China Culture Center), Chaoyang District. (8456 1939/1940/1941, ICVS_CHINA@yahoo.com) www.ICVSASIA.com 北京新天地国际动物医 院, 朝阳区安家楼亮马桥路29号肯特中心院子内 Way of Dog Dog Obedience Instructor, certified by Animal Behavior College,California, USA offers private lessons and group classes in basic obedience commands like focusing, sitting and loose-leash walking. Problem solving consultation also available. (134 2633 3693, wayofdog@hotmail.com)

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Family Life

Family Travel Directory Hotels, Hostels and Resorts Beijing Marriott Northeast The Beijing Marriott Hotel Northeast is a 5 star luxury hotel ideally situated in the heart of Beijing’s Chaoyang CBD and in close proximity to the city’s Third Embassy District. This newly built luxury hotel in Beijing, China, is connected to Metro Line 10, Airport Express Sanyuanqiao Station & Beijing Capital International Airport for convenient access to transportation.

Featuring spectacular views, this Northeast Beijing hotel’s luxury guest rooms and suites meet international standards of comfort and technology, including 42-inch LCD TVs, high-speed Internet access and a full array of first-class amenities. With 1,600 square meters of meeting and banquet facilities, this 5 star hotel in Beijing offers breathtaking spaces for weddings and business meetings - as well the assistance of our well-trained event professionals. The hotel also offers an on-site health club, heated indoor pool, a full-service spa, and your choice of five restaurants in the middle of China’s Chaoyang CBD. 26A Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (5927 8888) http://www. marriott.com/hotels/travel/bjses-beijing-marriott-hotel-northeast/ 朝阳区霄云路甲26号海航 大厦万豪酒店 China World Hotel With bragging rights to being the first super luxury hotel in town, the 716 room China World is an oldie but still a goodie thanks to its attentive service, location in the heart of the CBD and quality food outlets - especially Aria. The lobby is opulent and marble-laden enough for even the most discriminating Carraran and it leads, via an escalator, to the restaurants, offices and luxury retailers of the China World Trade Center.

The main conference hall will be closed for renovation from January to March of 2007.

Also, the affiliated Traders Hotel (Guomao Fandian) just behind the China World Hotel is a less-expensive alternative for business travelers. RMB 3,000-31,000. Daily 6am-11pm.

1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(6505 2266 ext 33, cwh@shangri-la.com) www.shangri-la.com 中国大饭店, 朝阳区建国 门外大街1号 Commune by The Great Wall Kempinski Surrounded by verdant mountains and the Shuiguan Great Wall, the Commune blends natural beauty with modern art and architecture – twelve leading Asian artists designed the 42 villas. While eleven villas – with fanciful names like “Bamboo Wall” – may only be rented in full, 190 rooms and suites are also available. Before a day of hiking, parents can drop off their kids at the Commune of the Children, which offers full- and half-day programs featuring swimming, storytelling, crafts and more (RMB 150-290). Rooms RMB 2,340-3,200; villas RMB 12,500-23,380. Daily 9.30am-4.30pm.

The Shuiguan Great Wall exit on the Badaling Expressway, Yanqing County. (8118 1888 ext 5706) www.commune.com.cn 长城脚下的公社, 延庆县八达岭高速路水关长城出口 Hilton Beijing The Hilton allows non-members to use its tennis courts and squash courts from 6.30-10.30am. Free (members), RMB 200 per hour (non-members), RMB 20 (lighting fee for night tennis). Daily 6.30am10.30pm. 1 Dongfang Lu, Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6466 2288) http://www1. hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/BJSHITW-HiltonBeijing-hotel/index.do 希尔顿酒店, 朝阳区东三 环北路东方路1号 Hilton Beijing Wangfujing “Recently voted the ‘World’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel’ for the second year running at the prestigious World Travel Awards, the Hilton Beijing Wangfujing hotel offers some of the largest hotel rooms in the city.Set in the heart of Beijing’s shopping district, indulge in some retail therapy or visit nearby Beijing attractions. The iconic Tiananmen Square is just a ten minute walk from the hotel. After a busy day sightseeing, treat yourself to a holistic massage in the hotel’s Spa, swim laps of the rooftop pool or work

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out in the fitness center.Hold a conference in one of the 8 fully equipped meeting rooms then relax and enjoy stunning city views in the Executive Lounge or take advantage of the hotel’s Business Center. Sample delicious Macanese cuisine at Vasco’s restaurant or sip an expertly mixed cocktail in stylish Flames bar at the Hilton Beijing Wangfujing hotel.” 89 Wangfujing Dongjie, Dongcheng District. (5812 8888) http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/BJSWFHI-Hilton-Beijing-Wangfujing/index. do 东城区北京王府井希尔顿酒店 Holiday Inn Lido If you were so inclined, you could live for days cloistered within the suburban Lido compound that is home to a supermarket, Watson’s drugstore, ATM, restaurants, Starbucks, hair salon, bowling center, tennis courts, apartments and corporate offices. Its proximity to the airport makes it an obvious choice for business travelers and airline crews, but it is a bit far from most tourist sites.

RMB 1,250-2,030. 6 Jiangtai Lu, Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6437 6688) http://beijinglido.holiday-inn.com 北京丽都假日酒店, 朝阳区 机场路将台路6号 JW Marriott Standard rooms are elegantly appointed and super luxurious. Downstairs, the loungy Loong Bar aspires to the metrochic networking set, while restaurants Asia Bistro and CRU Steakhouse maintain a high standard. Rooms RMB 1,500-2,500. 83 Jianguo Lu, China Central Place, Chaoyang District. (5908 6688) 北京JW万豪酒店, 朝阳区 华贸中心建国路83号 Kempinski Hotel Located in the heart of Beijing’s central diplomatic and business district, the Kempinski Hotel Beijing boasts a blend of European style with elements of Beijing’s rich cultural history. In addition to 526 guestrooms and suites, including four executive floors and eight no-smoking floors, the hotel also has eight fully equipped banqueting/conference facilities accommodating up to 1,300 people.

The hotel also has seven restaurants and bars, including the Paulaner Bräuhaus boasting the city’s finest Bavarian food and micro-brewed beer, and Kempi Deli, renowned for its gourmet European cakes and pastries. On the 18th floor overlooking Beijing’s skyline is the swimming pool of Pulse Health Club, which also includes a fitness centre, tennis courts and squash courts.The Kempinski also manages a neighbouring eight-storey complex offering 12,500 square metres of office space, 42 shops and showrooms and 170 fully furnished one to four bedroom apartments. Facing the Liang Ma River, the complex also contains a 24-hour serviced international medical centre, dental clinics and fully equipped children’s park and nursery. Beijing Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 3388) www.kempinski.com/beijing 凯宾斯基饭 店, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号 Langham Place Beijing Capital Airport Langham Place Beijing Capital Airport boasts “372 spacious, stylish guest rooms and suites;” dining options, including Ming Court and Fuel Bar and Grill; a location just one minute from Beijing Capital Airport Terminal 3; a 24-hour gym and cardio studio; 22 function rooms, including a ballroom and various multipurpose rooms; and the 24-hour private Club L Lounge offering “two floors of sleek luxury and an intimate, upscale vibe.” 1 Er Jing Lu, Terminal 3 Capital International Airport, Shunyi District. (6457 5555) http://beijingairport. langhamplacehotels.com/ Ritz-Carlton Beijing, Financial Street Another top-range hotel on Beijing’s “Wall Street.” With a striking glass and chrome exterior, the hotel boasts 253 guest rooms appointed with flat screen TVs, cordless phones and high-speed Internet and fax connections. The hotel features three restaurants (including the award-winning Cepe) and a lounge and bar serving Chinese, Italian and all-day cuisines.

RMB 1,500-48,000. 1 Jinchengfang Dongjie, Financial Street, Xicheng District, Xicheng District. (6601 6666) www.ritzcarlton.com 北京丽嘉饭店, 西城区金融街金城坊东街1号

December 2010

The Westin Beijing Chaoyang Fantastic location and first class amenities make the Westin Chaoyang one of Beijing’s premiere luxury hotels. All 550 guest rooms and suites are oversized and feature quality contemporary furnishings including the signature Heavenly Bed® and rainforest shower as well as wireless High Speed Internet Access.

The Westin Executive Club Floor guest rooms and suites provide the ultimate comfort and convenience.The Heavenly Spa by Westin™ offers a range of treatments for the renewal of the body, soul, and mind. Facilities include an indoor pool, hydrotherapy centre, and WestinWORKOUT® gym. The business centre, located on Level 3, provides secretarial and business support while the gift shop features a selection of premium souvenirs and gift items.

Find a journey of culinary delights and moments to savor in our restaurants, bars, and lounges as you enjoy offerings from China, Europe, and Asia. With a total of 1,100 square meters of function space, our hotel has the capacity to accommodate events of various sizes. The Jinmao Ballroom and seven meeting rooms feature the latest in audiovisual technology and five-star service. 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5922 8888) 金茂北京 威斯汀大饭店, 朝阳区东三环北路7号 Westin Beijing Financial Street This megahotel on Financial Street (West Second Ring Road) has spared no expense in meeting the high expectations of its well-heeled clientele, from its vast lobby and elegantly appointed rooms to its opulent spa and pool. The Westin also boasts seven restaurants and bars – including Senses, which offers what many cognoscenti consider to be Beijing’s most decadent Sunday brunch. RMB 1,500-21,100. 9B Jinrong Jie (Financial Street), Xicheng District., Xicheng District. (6606 8866) 威斯汀大酒店, 西城区金融街乙9号

Travel Agencies Beijing Baosheng Air Service Co. Ltd. Professional and full travel service company.

Well-known as largest air ticket wholesaler in China, offer domestic and international tickets and packages not only to corporate clients, but also tailor-made to meet individual needs.

Floor 9, Tower B, Jia Hui International Center Jiqingli, Chaoyang District. (400 888 0589, info@baosheng-air.com) www.baosheng-air. com 北京保盛易行航空服务有限公司, 朝阳区朝 外吉庆里6号佳汇中心B座901室

Thailand, Nepal, Bhutan and other areas of Asia. Also specialize in providing tours suitable for families with children. Mon-Fri 9.30am6.30pm, Sat 9.30am-1pm. Rm 2804, Bldg 11, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5869 1781/82, 5869 1769, beijing@countryholidays.com.cn) www.countryholidays.com.cn 朝阳区东三环中路39号建外 Soho11号楼2804 Free N Easy Travel Full service international travel agency provides air ticketing, hotel reservations and holiday packages.

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-1pm. Rm 1905, Bldg A, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5869 7754, fnebj@fnetravel.com) www.fnetravel.com 朝阳 区东三环中路39号建外SohoA座1905室 Kingdom Travel This bilingual outfit arranges domestic and business air tickets, family vacation packages and weekend escapes. Apt 718, Bldg 2, Guanghualu Soho, 22 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (5870 3388, fit@kingdomtravel.com.cn) www.kingdomtravel.com.cn 中侨国旅, 朝阳区光华路22号光华 路SOHO 2号楼718室 PixieAdventures PixieAdventures organizes tailor-made outdoor activities including hiking, trekking and biking trips around Beijing. This service also hosts opera-mask painting lessons, kite-making and lantern-making. Tours offer hikes to unrestored Great Wall areas.

Schedule an appointment for hutong exploring any day or partake in the set departure times each weekend. For more information, check www.pixieadventures.com or send an e-mail to phyllis@pixieadventures.com. 7-2 Jingshan Dongjie, Dongcheng District. 东城区景山东街 7-2号(景山公园东门斜对面200米) Travel-Stone A travel agency catering specifically for foreigners, they offer services in English, Chinese and French. Travel-Stone organize everything from flights & hotels to tailored packages and large group trips. 1) Daily 9am-7pm. Rm 2001, Tower A, ChaowaiMEN Xiezi Zhongxin, 26 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8565 8008, booking@travel-stone.com); 2) Inside April Gourmet, 55 Xinfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (booking@travel-stone.com) www. travel-stone.com 1) 朝阳区朝阳门外大街26号朝 外MEN写字中心A座2001室; 2) 朝阳区幸福村中路 55号杰座大厦底楼对面 (绿叶子食品店)

Fun Stuff Directory

Beijing Easy Travel Travel service with a decade of experience offering domestic and international packages to foreigners in Beijing. 1/F, Boutique 17, Hairun International Apartment, 2B Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5126 7266, rsvn@easytravel.cn, easytravelbj@yahoo.com) www.easytravel.cn 朝阳区将台路乙2号海润国际公寓商业1-17 Beijing Hikers Hikes in rural villages near Beijing. Call for info on hikes and what to bring. Prices may vary for overnight hikes; weekend hikes are RMB 250/300 (adult), half price for children under 12, including round-trip transport, snacks and beverages after the hike, detailed map of the route and professional guides. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm. Rm 601, Bldg 2, Xinhualian Ligang, 26 Jiuxianqiao Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6432 2786, info@beijinghikers.com) www.beijinghikers. com 朝阳区酒仙桥中路26号新华联丽港2号楼 601室 China Culture Center (CCC) From its Beijing headquarters, the Chinese Culture Club plans and organizes a diverse range of trips and cultural events (lectures, tours, courses, etc.) for those who wish to better understand and experience China, including a range of familyfriendly programs. Kent Center, 29 Anjialou, Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6432 9341/1041, info@chinaculturecenter.org) www.chinaculturecenter.org 朝阳区亮马桥路 29号安家楼肯特中心院内 Country Holidays Travel English-speaking tour consultants specializing in travel to China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, India,

Animal Attractions Beijing Aquarium Modern, well-equipped and recently restocked, the aquarium features thousands of freshwater and saltwater fish from around the world, including huge Amazonian arapaima, giant sturgeon and many sharks. The piece de resistance may be the enormous tank containing an entire coral reef – with sea turtles, manta rays and garoupa.

There are also several Sea World-style shows every day, featuring seals and dolphins. RMB 120 (includes zoo), RMB 60 (kids less than 18 years old), free (kids under 1.2m). Daily 9am5pm (Aug-May), 9am-5.30pm (Jun-Jul), last ticket sold at 4.30pm. 18B Gaoliangqiao Xiejie, Haidian District. (6217 6655) www.bj-sea.com 北京海洋馆, 海淀区高粱桥斜街乙18号

*listings in orange are new to Directories Beijing Zoo The conditions for the animals in the zoo and the behavior of some local patrons may upset animal lovers. However, things are improving, as the new chimpanzee and panda houses testify, and most kids will be oblivious to the zoo’s shortcomings and enjoy the vast collection of animals and the leafy compound, which was the former private garden of a Qing dynasty aristocrat. Apr-Oct: RMB 15, RMB 8 (students). Nov-Mar: RMB 10, RMB 5 (students), free (kids under 1.2m).

RMB 5 for Panda House. Daily 7.30am-5pm (winter), 7.30am-6pm (summer). 137 Baishiqiao Lu, Xizhimenwai Dajie, Haidian District.

(6831 4411) www.bjzoo.com 北京动物园, 海 淀区西外大街白石桥路137号 Blue Zoo Beijing Not to be confused with either the Beijing Aquarium or the Beijing Zoo, the Blue Zoo is actually an aquarium with an enormous coral reef tank containing eels, tuna, shark, stingrays and (we swear we’re not making this up) the occasional underwater marriage ceremony. RMB 85, RMB 55 (kids under 12 years old), free (kids under 1m). Daily 8am-7.30pm (summer), daily 8.30am-6.30pm (winter). Workers’ Stadium South Gate, Chaoyang District. (6591 3397) www.blue-zoo. com 富国海底世界, 朝阳区工人体育场南门

Concert Hall & Theaters Beijing Playhouse China’s English community theater presents contemporary live semiprofessional theater productions, performed in English with Chinese subtitles. Professional acting experience not necessary and nationality not important, though ability to perform in English is required. Balizhuang (E 4th Ring Rd)100025 Chaoyang5 Houbalizhuang, Yew Chung Int’l School, East gate of Honglingjin Park, Chaoyang District. (13718908922, performance@beijingplayhouse.com) www. beijingplayhouse.com 北京剧场, 朝阳区八里庄 东四环中路后八里庄5号 Chinese Shadow Puppet Cultural Club Established in 2007, this is one of the few places in Beijing where shadow plays are performed. The 2,000-year-old tradition is a form of ancient storytelling and entertainment.

Catch the shadows on a lit backdrop and watch the shadows transform into a myriad of images. This club holds camps in the winter for children to learn the history and crafting of shadow puppets. Chinese language only, although they are planning on a bilingual show.

Tue-Sun 10am-noon, 2-6pm, 7-9pm. 28 Qinghua Xilu (100m west of Yuanmingyuan’s south gate, next to Tongrentang), (8656 9350)., Haidian District. (8656 9350) http://blog.sina. com.cn/longzaitianpiying, http://www.zhonghuashadow.cn/ 龙在天皮影文化俱乐部, 海淀区 中华皮影文化艺术城: 海淀区清华西路28号（圆 明园南门西100米，同仁堂旁边） UME International Cineplex Built by wellknown Hong Kong filmmaker See-Yuen Ng, this five-floor building is known for its stateof-the-art equipment, clean environment, and screenings of the latest foreign movies. Its biggest claim to fame, literally, is a 430 square meter screen. RMB 30-120. 1) 5th floor, Fuli Plaza, Shuangjing Qiao Bei, Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5903 7171); 2) 44 Kexueyuan Nanlu, Shuangyushu, Haidian District. (8211 5566) www.bjume.com 华星影 院, 1) 朝阳区东三环中路双井桥北富力广场5层; 2) 海淀区双榆树科学院南路44号

Museums & Education Beijing Natural History Museum Exhibits include animatronic dinosaurs, fossils, a rusting aquarium and an enormous taxidermy collection. Free. Tue-Sun 8.30am-5pm (last ticket 4pm). 126 Tianqiao Nandajie (near the west gate of Temple of Heaven), Chongwen District.

(6702 4431, 6702 3096) www.bmnh.org.cn 北 京自然博物馆, 崇文区天桥南大街126号 Beijing Planetarium Thanks to a RMB 300 million facelift, the once retro planetarium now boasts state of the art facilities. The SGI Digital Universe Theater takes patrons on a tour

of the cosmos with six Carl Zeiss laser projectors that simulate the movement of stars and constellations. You can also travel through time in the 4-D theater, where you strap on a pair of goggles and watch a multidimensional film about the creation of the solar system and evolution of life on earth, replete with snarling T-Rexes and saber-toothed tigers. Other draws include the 3D space shuttle simulator and a cool exhibit about the sun. The new exhibition hall: RMB 10 (RMB 7 for students); GI Digital Universe Theater: RMB 45, RMB 35 (students); 4-D Theater: RMB 30, RMB 20 (students); 3D Space Shuttle Simulator: RMB 30, RMB 20 (students). Wed-Fri 9.30am-3.30pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am-4pm. 138 Xizhimenwai Dajie, Xicheng District. (6835 2453, 6831 2517) www.bjp.org. cn 北京天文馆新馆, 西城区西直门外大街138号 China Science and Technology Museum An oasis of educational fun. Featuring handson exhibits, robots, optical illusions, IMAX films (in Chinese only) and more, this museum is popular with school-age kids, but is not as cutting edge as the planetarium or ExploraScience. There’s a vast, well-equipped indoor play area on the third and fourth floors of Building B, which can be mobbed by rugrats, so exercise common sense about when to visit. RMB 30, RMB 15 (students), free (kids under 1.2m); Building B: RMB 30, RMB 20 (students), free (kids under 1.2m). Tue-Sun 9am-4.30pm, extended hours for special events (ticket selling 8.30am- 3.30pm). 1 Beisanhuan Zhonglu (Beisanhuan at Anhua Qiao – look for the geodesic dome), Xicheng District. (6237 1177 ext 3216) www.cstm.org. cn 中国科技馆, 西城区北三环中路1号 Sony ExploraScience Kids of all ages are sure to love this technologically sophisticated museum’s host of interactive displays, including robotic dogs who play soccer, musical sculptures, sound and light distortion machines, soap bubble rings and much more.

The staff regularly host live science shows in Chinese. RMB 30 (adults), RMB 20 (students), free (kids under 1.2m); buy your tickets at the museum booth outside the park’s south or east gates and you won’t have to buy park tickets as well. Mon-Fri 9.30am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-7.30pm, closed on second Mon and Tue of each month. Inside Chaoyang Park (near the south gate), Chaoyang District. (6501 8800) www.explorascience.com.cn 索尼探梦, 朝阳区朝阳公园里（南门） The Magic Bean House The Magic Bean House is the first American-designed Children’s Museum in China. Exhibits include Tale of Magic Bean, Fantasy Forest, Green Foods, Bricks and Blocks, Car Service, World of Water, Experimental Hall, Toddler Land, Art Gallery and more. Weekdays 10am-6pm; Weekends 9am-8pm. 7 Chaoyang Park Xilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. www.magicbeanhouse.com 豆豆家科技馆, 朝阳区朝阳区朝阳 公园西路7号 Ullens Center for Contemporary Art (UCCA) RMB 15 (adults). Free on Thursdays.

Free for students and children under 1.3 meters Tue-Sun 10am-7pm. 798 Dashanzi Art District, 4 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.

(8459 9269) www.ucca.org.cn 尤伦斯当代艺术 中心, 朝阳区酒仙桥路4号大山子艺术区

Parks & Gardens Beihai Park This park is a good example of a classic Yuan dynasty imperial garden and has the benefit of being good to visit in all seasons. Ticket: RMB 10 (April-Oct); RMB 5 (Nov-March). Half-price for students. Daily 6.30am-8pm (Nov-March); 6am-9pm (April, May, Sept, Oct); 6am-10pm (June-Aug). 1 Wenjin Jie, Xicheng District. (6403 1102) www.beihaipark.com.cn 北海公园, 西城区文 津街1号 Chaoyang Park Kitschy but fun. Kids can kick or throw a ball on the big grass field near the entrance, and the concrete podiums beyond are tree-free kite flying zones. There’s lots of room to stroll, a range of boating options, a handsome merry-go-round and many rides

Directories including a roller coaster, flying dinosaurs, bumper cars, sky swings and several large inflatable castles. On top of all this, Sony ExploraScience is also located in the park. The outdoor pool is a great place to while away a summer afternoon and winters see a makeshift ski slope go up near the west gate – thrill seekers can rent skis and inter tubes onsite.

The delightful northwestern section of the park includes a lake, flower beds and grassy expanses where families can enjoy a picnic.

RMB 5, RMB 2.5 (students), free for kids under 1.2m. Daily 6am-10pm (last entry at 9pm).

1 Nongzhan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6506 5409) www.sun-park.com 朝阳公园, 朝阳区农 展馆南路1号 Haidian Park A large park just south of Yiheyuan, featuring a lake, fishing canal, a large kite-flying field, and a modest kids’ amusement area. RMB 2. Daily 7.30am- 10pm.

2 Xinjiangongmen Lu, Haidian District. (6285 0569) www.haidianpark.com 海淀公园, 海淀区 新建宫门路2号 Houhai Okay, so it isn’t a park. And we’ve taken the liberty of referring to two lakes (Qianhai and Houhai) with the name of the latter. These provisos aside, Houhai merits inclusion because of its family-friendly atmosphere, especially in winter, when the frozen lake looks like a scene by some modern-day Brueghel, with families and couples skating, playing ice hockey, and jubilantly riding on ice chairs and other phantasmagoric contraptions. There’s an old school amusement area with trampolines, electric cars and a dragon train on the southwest bank near Kong Yiji.

Dianmenwai Dajie (aka Ping’an Dadao), across from the north gate of Beihai Park, Xicheng District. 后海地区, 西城区地安门外大街（北海 公园北门对面） Ritan Park The CBD’s “lungs,” Ritan Park packs a surprising amount of child-friendly stuff into a limited space: the playground area includes an inflatable playhouse, large trampolines, a mechanical bull, a merrygo-round with Technicolor unicorns and an infrequently washed indoor playhouse. Other attractions include the fishing pond, climbing wall and mini-golf – the latter attracts few customers, so don’t worry about triple-bogeying each hole. The altar is a great place to watch weathered gentlemen fly kites. If you need a snack, Schindler’s Filling Station, the Stone Boat Bar and Xiheyaju all have terraces opening onto the park. Free. Daily 6am-8pm (summer), daily 6.30am-8pm (winter). 6 Ritan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (8561 6301) 日坛公 园, 朝阳区日坛北路6号 Si’de Park This Lido-area park boasts plenty that will keep the young’uns amused, including an inflated castle, indoor funhouse, outdoor playground, merry-go-round, football pitches, a rollerblading rink, and fishing pond. A circular walking track is popular with morning walkers – if you can get the crew out the door early enough, have fun watching the tai chi practioners. Free. Daily 6am-9pm. Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6438 6093) 四得公园, 朝阳区将台西路 Summer Palace (Yiheyuan) The crowds that cluster predictably around the buildings and ruins in this imperial abode may dissuade you from visiting with the kids, especially on a spring day in cherry blossom season. The key to a happy family outing is to explore the little known corners of this vast park. Walk around the far lakes, rent a boat and then sit in the shade of a weeping willow and enjoy a picnic.

Daily 6.30am-8pm (6pm last ticket). RMB 30 (Apr 1-Oct 31), RMB 20 (Nov 1-Mar 31), students half price. Yiheyuan Lu, Haidian District.

(6288 1144) 颐和园, 海淀区颐和园路 The Temple of Heaven Another of Beijing’s signature attractions, this imperial temple, known for its distinc-tively round architecture and altar, was the site of annual sacrifices by the emperors to heaven. Daily 6 am-5.30 pm (park), 8am – 5.30 pm (sites). RMB 15 (park), RMB 35 (all access). Yongdingmen Dajie (West Gate), Chongwen District. (6702

Fun Stuff

8866) 崇文区永定门内大街 （天坛西门）

Places Beidong Floriculture Garden Find plants, seeds, garden ornaments, pots and related curios. Daily 8.30am-6.30pm (summer); 9am5.30pm (winter). 150m south of Sundahe Qiao, Jingshun Lu, Shunyi District, Shunyi District. 孙和大北东花艺苑, 顺义区顺义区京顺 路孙大河桥南150米 De Run Wu Translating as “House of Virtue,” this family-run organic farm consists of a greenhouse growing over 100 types of crops year-round. Visitors can purchase produce for RMB 20 per kilo (minimum 4 kilos) and they deliver for an additional RMB 20 on two runs a week. They also sells organic detergents, soap nuts, natural cleaners and more. Rm 813, 60 Shunhuang Lu, Danshui Town, Chaoyang District. (8459 0809, jiyunliang@vip.163.com) 朝 阳区朝阳区顺黄路60号 Haidian Children’s Palace This library contains over 2,000 English language books.

Although it’s targeted towards Chinese families with kids ages 4-14, the library is still a great resource for native English-speaking children.

Limited study space is also available for over achieving kiddies, though they must be accompanied by a parent. 6 Wanliu Xingbiao Jiayuan, Haidian District, Haidian District.

(8256 7306) www.hdac.cn 海淀少年宫, 海淀区 海淀区万柳星标家园甲6号 Laitai Flower Market The cut bunches and potted plants in the basement will brighten anyone’s day. Expect to pay around RMB 40 for a trailing ivy and RMB 50 for a small bonsai tree. And you can also pick up some tropical fish on the first floor. Mon-Thu 9am-6pm, Fri 9am-6.30 pm, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm. 9 Maizidian Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6463 6145) 莱太花卉 市场, 朝阳区麦子店西路9号 Liangma Flower Market This store sells almost every variety of cut flower or potted plant you could want at very reasonable prices and is also great for craft materials. There are loads of individual vendors, so variety is good and bargaining is the norm. You can buy organza at RMB 5 a meter, ribbon, cards, stickers, cello bags, printed wrapping paper.

Delivery by flatbed bicycle costs between RMB 10-30, depending on the distance and your haggling skills. Daily 8.30am-6.30pm.

South bank of Liangma River, 758 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6504 2446) 亮马花卉市场, 朝阳区东三环北路758号, 燕莎商 城南, 亮马河南岸

Play Centers 3iart Center Offers a range of art classes for children, teenagers and adults such as drawing, painting, clay modeling, needlework, Chinese calligraphy, knot making and paper cutting. 1) 2/F, Block A, Hairun International Apartment, Jiangtai Lu,, Chaoyang District.

(134 3983 3280, 3iartcenter@gmail.com); 2) 1/F, Bldg 3, Shidai Zhiguang Xiaoqu, 45 Xizhimen Beidajie, Haidian District. (134 3983 3280, 3iartcenter@gmail.com) www.3iart.com. cn 爱立方艺术中心, 1) 朝阳区将台海润国际公 寓A座2层; 2) 海淀区西直门北大街45号时代之光 小区3号楼一层 Family Box Educational & Recreational Center Family Box is a British family centre combining education and recreation. Children ages 0-12 and their families have more than enough space to play in the 6,000sqm, threestorey building. Kids will enjoy the large scale climbing frame, Mickey Mouse play area, swimming pool, Sensory Room, Soft Island and Craft Room. They also run courses and activities based on the UK early years curriculum. Other facilities include: party hosting, catering, coffee shop, and crèche facility. RMB 320 (2 adults, 1 child). Bldg 4, 51 Wangjing Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District.

(6478 4629) www.familyboxes.com.cn 朝阳区 朝阳区望京北路51号院4号楼 Fundazzle Fundazzle makes young kids

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Fun Stuff squeal with delight, while it makes their parents wince (because it smells of feet), then gasp (at the size of the plastic-ball-filled pool) and finally sigh (as they realize that for a few precious hours, the furniture in their home is safe). This cavernous, indoor playground has a huge two-story jungle gym, trampolines and a toddler area with small cars, swings, seesaws, toy houses and so on. On weekends, counselors put on shows, lead the kids in song and dance, and teach arts and crafts.

RMB 30 (kids); adults free (Mon-Fri), RMB 15 (Sat-Sun). Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat-Sun and holidays 9am-7pm. Gongti Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6593 6208) www.fundazzle-nc.com 翻斗乐, 朝阳区工体南路 Gymboree Beijing Gymboree (the Soho location is the largest in the world) offers music, play and art classes in English. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Parents are encouraged to consult the experts at Gymboree about enrolling their kids in age-appropriate classes. RMB 3,120 (12 classes) or RMB 14,976 (96 classes). Daily 9am-6pm. 1) Guanghua SOHO, 7/F, Bldg 3, 22 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (5900 6186); 2) 5/F, Bldg B, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5869 4087); 3) 2/F, Bldg E, Wanjing International Commercial Center,9 Wangjing Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (5166 0516) 金宝贝, 1) 朝阳区北京市 朝阳区光华路22号光华路SOHO三单元7层; 2) 朝 阳区东三环中路39号建外SohoB座5层; 3) 朝阳区 朝阳区望京街9号望京国际商业中心E座二层01号 Happy Land Arts and Crafts Center Let your children discover their inner Picasso.

Happy Land offers pottery, painting, paper folding, jewelry making and much more. Kids and parents love this spot, especially in the dead of winter. The staff is patient, knowledgeable and able to speak functional English.

Birthday parties can also be arranged. RMB 50/hr. House-call service is offered for 10 kids and more: RMB 800 (2 hrs). Daily 9am-5pm (winter), 9am-6pm (summer). Xibaixinzhuang (near Capital Paradise), Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 4055, 136 6104 5892) 乐土工艺 坊, 顺义区后沙峪白辛庄村东（名都园的附近） Kindermusic with Sarah (peel.sarah@lafafa. net) http://www.kmwithsarah.com.cn/ My Gym Early Childhood Development Center This early childhood development center provides age-appropriate programs for kids age 6 weeks to 13 years. Parent-kid classes are for kids age 6 weeks-3.5 years; independent learner classes are for kids 3.5–13 years. Also offers birthday parties, special events and summer and winter break camps. Price Range: RMB 156-RMB 268 per class. Mon-Sun 9am-7pm. F/15, 1 Blue Castle International Center, Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6582 0092, 6582 0072, 135 1105 8129, serena.shi@mygymchina.com) www. my-gym.com 美吉姆国际儿童教育中心, 朝阳区 西大望路蓝堡国际中心1座15层 Peapod Baby A place to gather with other moms, dads, caregivers, and children that offers Kindermusik, Baby art classes, and playgroups for babies from newborn through age 4. Also offers dance for ages 2-6, and English classes from ages 3-13, as well as prenatal yoga. Class sizes are small, with a maximum of 8 students in a class and semesters range from 4 weeks to 16 weeks, depending on the class. Apt 209, Bldg 1, China Central Place Apartments, Chaoyang District. (150 1077 1929, Shanbyers@gmail.com) 朝阳区朝阳区华 贸1号楼209室 Star Trooper Laser Tag Indulge your triggerhappy inner child in a very trippy atmosphere.

Each game lasts 15mins. Kids must be taller than 1.3m. RMB 40 (first game), RMB 30 (additional games). Groups of six or more can rent the entire venue for RMB 1680/hour.

Wed-Fri 2-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-8pm. B1, 316 Wangjing Xiyuan Sanqu, Chaoyang District.

(6475 8329, info@startrooper.net) www. startrooper.net 激光搏击, 朝阳区望京西园三区 316号楼，地下一层 The Familier This two-level, indoor family

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centre provides age-appropriate and kid-family play rooms and classes for children of all ages. Includes an expanded soft play area for babies and toddlers and a full-service cafe with a Western-trained chef and healthy menu options for the entire family. 2 hour: RMB 50 (1 adult, 1 child); all day: RMB 88 (1 adult, 1 child). Monday-Sunday 9am-8pm. Ste 0753, Tower A, Chaowai SOHO, 6B Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5869 2904, service@thefamilier.com) http://www. thefamilier.com/ Yu Kids Island The Place’s well-kitted indoor play area boasts a palm tree carousel, a bouncy slide, waterfall tunnel and a wind room filled with huge balloons – all well-padded for maximum safety. Come and go as you like with a RMB 50 day pass; frequent funners will benefit from discount cards (RMB 500/30% discount; RMB 1000/50% discount). Daily 10am-10pm. 4/F, South Bldg, The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (no phone) 爱乐游园地, 朝阳区光华路9号世贸天阶南楼4层

Playgroups & Activities Beijing Color Studio Come create in a 200sqm studio space close to the 798 art district. The Color Studio offers art classes for kids, painting workshops, a party and birthday venue, and corporate team building activities.

All workshops are run by experienced artists.

Wuhuan Erhao (fourth studio on the left), Dongwuhuan, Chaoyang District. (136 7129 5154, ask@beijingcolorstudio.com) www. beijingcolorstudio.com 朝阳区东五环五环二号（ 左边第四门） Beijing International Festival Chorus This group of highly talented amateur singers performs Western classical music three times a year at the Forbidden City Concert Hall. Also has a children’s choir and a chamber choir. www.beijingifc.org Black Sesame Kitchen Food writer Jen-Lin Liu’s cooking school is housed in a renovated courtyard with an open kitchen and dining room where students can “cook, socialize, dine and wine.” Offers weekly classs, wine tastings, as well as caters to corporate functions, birthday parties, book readings and other events. 3 Heizhima Hutong, Dongcheng District. (blacks esamekitchen@gmail.com) www.blacksesamekitchen.com 东城区东城区黑芝麻胡同3号 Family Fun With Yuliya Offers a variety of classes and events for kids ages 0-14 years old and adults. Classes include Kindermusik, Salsa Babies, Zumba Fitness, Infant Massage Courses and special monthly events.

Also hosts birthday parties. (136 2135 4114, info@familyfunwithyuliya.com) www.familyfunwithyuliya.com German Playgroup Parents and children under 5 get together to sing, play and learn about German language and culture. RMB 200/ 10 times. Mon 4-5.30pm. At the Children’s Learning Center of Beijing, Unit 3056 Gahood Villa, Baixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 7082, Eng: 136 7115 1760, Chi: 136 1133 4043) www.clcbkids.com 顺义区后沙峪白辛庄嘉 浩商住别墅3056单元 Kindermusik with Lily’s Partners A program where moms and their children can play, listen, and dance to music. Activities are specifically designed to stimulate early childhood development. For children ages 5 months-6 years. 1) Teletubbies Children’s Entertainment Centre, 3F Hua Mao Shopping Mall (East section), 6A Xi Da Wang Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (babypioneer@vip.sina.com, kindermusikbylily@126.com); 2) 10F Chaoyang Joy City, Chaoyang Beilu (on the corner of Qing Nian Lu), Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (5903 7114, babypioneer@vip.sina.com, kindermusikbylily@126.com); 3) I Love Gym Children’s Fitness Centre, 4F Viva Shopping Mall, East Third Ring Road, Shuangjing Qiao, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (5903 7163, babypioneer@vip.sina.com, kindermusikbylily@126.com) www.kindermusikbeijing.com. cn 1) 朝阳区朝阳区西大望路甲6号，华贸购物

*listings in orange are new to Directories 中心东区3层; 2) 朝阳区朝阳大悦城购物中心 10层，东西环红领巾桥向东3公里，朝阳北路与 青年路交口的东北角; 3) 朝阳区爱乐国际儿童运 动馆内, 朝阳区东三环双井桥西北角Viva富力城 购物广场4层 KindyROO International Early Childhood Development Centre KindyROO offers music, dance and play classes designed to encourage spatial awareness, balance and coordination. Its facilities are clean and bright at a very reasonable price. Most of the instructors go through a corporate training program to learn the organization’s teaching philosophy, and they speak English. Free trial class. 1) 10/F, 18 Jianwai Soho (west area), Chaoyang District (5869 8002/3); 2) 3C Unit B, Bldg 2 Jinyuan Shidai Business Center, 2 Landianchang Donglu, Haidian District (88876541/2); 3) 21 Liangmaqiao Lu, Fenghuayuan Drive-in Movie Theater, Chaoyang District (8457 4797/3); 4) 2/F, Bldg A Wangjing International Commercial Center, 9 Wangjing Lu, Chaoyang District (59203867/8); 5) Daxiong Tulip, North Gate, Lane 6, Tianbaoyuan, BDA (67820600); 6)3/F, Xinlong Plaza, Xisanqi Donglu, Changping District (62948888/62955555); www.kindyroo. com 瑞德探知学堂1)国贸中心.北京市朝阳区建外 SOHO西区18楼10层; 2)金源中心.海淀区蓝靛厂东 路金源时代商务中心2号楼B座3C; 3)朝阳区亮马 桥路21号枫花园汽车电影院内; 4)望京中心.朝阳 区望京街9号望京国际商业中心A座二层214; 5)亦 庄中心.北京亦庄天宝园六里大雄郁金香舍北门会 所; 6) 新龙中心.昌平区西三旗东路新龙大厦三层 LaFaFa Music Through age-appropriate music and movement activities, Kindermusik brings parents and children closer together while helping children develop a lifelong love of music and learning. Sarah Peel and her team have been recognized since 2007 as Maestro educators, offering the finest in English language developmental music programs to children ages 0-7 in Beijing. Saturday classes are hosted by the Canadian International School of Beijing.

Free, no obligation preview classes are available by reservation. 17-702 Hundred Island Park, Beizhan Beijie, Xicheng District. (8667 1756, 139 1062 5893, peel.sarah@lafafa.net) music.lafafa.cn 西城区北展北街华远企业号17号 楼702室 My Little Mozart Studio Comprehensive music program offering keyboard, violin, guitar, vocal and other instrumental lessons. Group and private classes taught by qualified and experienced teachers. Music and movement classes for ages 0-4. Curriculum focuses on providing a well balanced music education for every student. Harmony Road music course is offered at the studio. Musical birthday parties can also be arranged. Room 108, Building 5, Lishui Jiayuan, Liulitun, Chaoyang District. (135 2256 3767, Kristinkoh@mylittlemozart.com) www. mylittlemozart.com 朝阳区六里屯丽水嘉 园5号楼108室

Theme Parks Happy Valley Amusement Park Beijing’s best amusement park sprawls out across a square kilometer of land outside the East Fourth Ring Road and offers 40 rides, an IMAX theater, more than 100 games and seven cinemas. The park is divided into a number of themed areas inspired by such civilizations as Mayan Central America, Minoan Greece and Shangri-la – the little kiddies play in Ant Kingdom. The roller coasters are world class, the park is well maintained, and the lines for rides are fairly reasonable. RMB 160 (April 1-Nov 14); RMB 120 (Nov 15-March 31). Half price for kids 1.2-1.4m, free for kids under 1.2m. Daily 8.30am-10pm. Wuji Beilu, Dongsihuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (6738 9898 ext 0, 6205 0088, happyvalley@bjoct.com) http:// bj.happyvalley.com.cn/park/ 北京欢乐谷, 朝阳 区东四环路小武基北路

School Directory School fees listed are for one academic year unless otherwise. Specified.Abbreviations: IB = International Baccalaureate; ESOL = English as a Second or Other Language

3e International This Lido-area school offers a bilingual, bicultural curriculum that fuses Western and Eastern approaches to teaching and focuses on the development of the child as a whole. Preschool, kindergarten, and elementary students spend half the day in an English classroom with Western teachers and the other half in a Chinese classroom with Chinese teachers. The Nursery program is a play-based, active learning program taught by Chinese and Western teachers in bilingual classrooms. The aim is to help children build fluency in speaking, reading, and writing Mandarin and English. 3e features well-designed classrooms, an outdoor space with natural surroundings, a multipurpose field, Chinese/English lending library, indoor dance/gym space, and an art studio. Visit the school to learn more about its research-based curriculum covering English and Mandarin Language Arts, Cognitive Development, Creative Arts, Global and Cultural Competence, Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Knowledge, and Physical Development. Ages: 2-9. Price range: RMB 69,800-118,800. 9-1 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6437 3344 ext 127) www.3eik.com 3e国际学校, 朝阳区将台西 路9-1号 Beanstalk International Bilingual School (BIBS) Beanstalk International Bilingual School offers a unique bilingual program combining the strengths of Western and Eastern educational philosophies. In the Elementary School 70% of classes are taught in English and 30% are taught in Chinese. BIBS accept students from pre-kindergarten to Grade 10 and will soon have a grade 11 class.

BIBS have created a loving, caring and supportive learning environment to foster creativity, drive and a love of learning. They instill a passion for academic achievement and encourage behavioral and social responsibility. BIBS students are encouraged to embrace multiculturalism and international awareness.

Beanstalk Kindergarten and Elementary schools currently deliver the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) program. At our High school we teach a North American curriculum and have begun the process of adopting the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years and Diploma Programs. 1) Upper East Side, 6 Dongsihuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5130 7951); 2) 1/F, Bldg B, 40 Liangmaqiao Lu (at the 21st Century Hotel), Chaoyang District.

(6466 9255); 3) 38 Nan Shiliju, Chaoyang District. (8456 6019) www.bibs.com.cn 青苗 国际双语学校, 1) 朝阳区东四环北路6号阳光上 东; 2) 朝阳区朝阳区亮马桥路40号21世纪饭店 院内B座1层; 3) 朝阳区朝阳区南十里居38号

Directories 50 classrooms. Grades: Nursery to G12. Price range: RMB 97,160-176,760 (plus RMB 2,000 registration fee and RMB 5,000 new student fee). 77 Baiziwan Nan Er Lu, Chaoyang District. (8771 7171) www.bcis.cn 北京乐成国际 学校, 朝阳区百子湾南二路77号 Beijing Homeschoolers A support network, information source and social hub for families homeschooling their children. http://groups. yahoo.com/group/beijing_homeschoolers Beijing Huijia Kindergarten Run in conjunction with Huijia Private College (see below), Huijia Kindergarten currently has 20 different campuses across Beijing. The school follows a Multiple Intelligences curriculum and instruction is in Chinese. Currently, about one quarter of the students are international students. Ages: 2 to 6.Price Range: RMB 20,00060,000. Head Office: 33C, Bldg B, Huating Jiayuan, 6 Beisihuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (400 886 1993) www.hjkids.com 北 京汇佳幼儿园, 朝阳区北四环中路6号华亭嘉 园B座33C Beijing New Talent Academy 9 Anhua Street, Tianzhu Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8041 3036 (English)/3001, 8046 7117, zxcj@bjnewtalent.com) www.bjnewtalent.com 北京市新英才学校, 顺义区顺义区天竺 开发区安华街9号 Beijing No. 55 Middle School and High School Unlike other public schools in the city, No. 55 has an international student department specifically tailored to foreign students. High school classes are offered in Chinese (meant for students with no Chinese background) or English, and prepare students for the IB exam or China’s college entrance exam. Middle school classes are in Chinese only; a half-year of intensive Chinese training is available if needed. Ages: 11 to 17. Price range: RMB 28,000-44,600. 12 Xinzhong Jie, Dongcheng District. (6416 4252/9531) www. bj55.cn/international 北京第五十五中学, 东城 区新中街12号

Fun Stuff

Beijing Telford Bilingual and International Pre-school Part of the Telford Education Institute of Hong Kong. Classes are fully bilingual with one Western and four Chinese teachers in every classroom. All subjects are taught 50% in English and 50% in Chinese.

Facilities include a multipurpose auditorium and performing arts center, two piano rooms, two sports fields and a big garden. Ages: 6 months-6years old. RMB 32,000-35,040 (plus RMB 400-500 per month meal fee). 2 Daluyuan, Dongsanhuan Nanlu (inside R&F City), Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (5876 6221/7811, beijingtelford@gmail.com) www. telfordeducation.com 北京德福幼,朝阳区朝 三南路大路2富力城)往南第一 路口 Beijing World Youth Academy (BWYA) BWYA is an international school for local and overseas students ages 9 to 18, offering both English and Chinese programs. An IB World School since 2001, the school is fully authorized to offer the IB Middle Years and Diploma Programs. BWYA values holistic education and seeks to offer students ample opportunity to develop as globally-aware critical thinkers. Facilities include projectors in every classroom, computer labs, library, full science labs, well-stocked art & design technology workspaces, athletic facilities. A wide variety of clubs and after school activities are also offered. 18 Huajiadi Beili (inside No. 94 Middle School), Chaoyang District. (6461 7787, admissions@ibwya.net) www.ibwya.net 北京 世青国际学校,花家地北里18号(94中学内） The British School of Beijing The British School of Beijing now part of the Britishbased Nord Anglia family of British style international schools, offers the English National Curriculum taught by UK qualified teachers, and supported by native Englishspeaking teaching assistants. BSB prepares pupils for the IGCSE and A and AS Levels while emphasizing high academic results and respect for one another. In addition to our excellent downtown Sanlitun campus,

Beijing BISS International School Founded in 1994, BISS offers the IB program (PYP, MYP and DP) to about 400 students from over 40 countries. Mandarin classes are compulsory from grades K-5; ESOL support is offered when necessary. The campus is wireless enabled and houses a library, dance come drama studio, visual arts center, design and technology studio, computer and science labs, and sports facilities. Grades: K to 12.

Price range: RMB 96,000-172,000. Registration fee: RMB 3,800; refundable deposit: RMB 18,000-RMB 23,000; and ESOL fee of RMB 15,800 that is refundable upon completing two full academic years. Bldg 17, Area 4, Anzhen Xili (just off Beisanhuan), Chaoyang District. (6443 3151, admissions@biss.com. cn) www.biss.com.cn 北京BISS国际学校, 朝阳 区安贞西里四区17号楼 Beijing City International School Founded in 2005, BCIS is an authorized school for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, Middle Years Program and IB Diploma. All students attend daily Chinese language and culture lessons. BCIS has an inclusive admissions policy and any students with ESOL needs are supported by the ESOL department. The school’s 51,000 square meter campus boasts an indoor swimming pool and rock-climbing wall, a design and technology studio, a 300-seat theater and other facilities for the visual and performing arts, state-of-the-art IT equipment, and over

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School The British School of Beijing is excited to announce the relocation and opening of its new Shunyi campus. This newly custom-built campus, located in the residential and educational area of Beijing, has first class sports and recreational facilities, six Science and four IT labs, specialist Art, Music, Dance and Physical Education facilities, two theaters, a 25m swimming pool and a spacious dining hall. The outdoor facilities include a football pitch, tennis court, basketball courts and a 100m running track. BSB has strict admission requirements, including entrance exams and a limit on the number of students requiring English Language support (EAL) - no more than 20% in each class. Ages: 2-18. Price range: RMB76,940 to RMB179, 700. 1) 15 Anhua Lu, Tianzhu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8047 3588, desiree.weridman@britishschool.org. cn); 2) 5 Sanlitun Xiliujie, Chaoyang District.

(8532 3088, desiree.weridman@britishschool. org.cn) www.britishschool.org.cn 北京英国学 校, 1) 顺义区天竺镇丽苑街; 2) 朝阳区三里 屯西六街5号 Canadian International School of Beijing Opened in 2006, CISB offers a CanadianStyle curriculum for Grade 1-12 students, as well as a Montessori Kindergarten. CISB is also an International Baccalaureate World School authorized to provide the IB Diploma Programme at High School level. The student body currently represents over 50 nationalities. Non-native English-speaking students will have their language abilities assessed, and be given ESL support according to their results. Chinese and French are offered as additional languages, as well as Korean at High School level. Member of ACAMIS and UNESCO, CISB is a candidate for accreditation with CIS, WASC and NCCT. CISB features 90 classrooms equipped with the SmartBoard System, seven computer labs, a 500-seat theatre, two large gymnasiums, a 25-meter swimming pool and a dance studio. Grades: Pre-school to 12. Price range: 59,900 – 156,500 RMB (RMB 1,600 application fee and 3,800-5,500 ESL fee). 38 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 7788, admissions@cis-beijing.com) www.cisb.com. cn 北京加拿大国际学校, 朝阳区亮马桥路38号 Care for Children Special Needs School The CFCS is currently the only international school offering an educational program specifically tailored to meet the needs of children with learning differences. CFCS provides an individualized, multidisciplinary approach to the English National Curriculum for expatriate children with special educational needs. The school caters for children with a wide range of educational difficulties. Student enrollment and tuition is calculated according to the individual child’s needs, and dual programs in partnerships with other international schools are also available. The School runs both half and full day classes for students ages 2-19 years. The foreign lead staff are all highly skilled special needs educators, who receive therapy support from our on-site clinicians.

Operating from The Centre in the Beijing Riviera, the facilities are specially designed for all aspects of a special needs curriculum including: music and art rooms, padded rumpus room for physical activities, dance and drama; multi-sensory room/physiotherapy room with equipment for brain gym and PT; observation rooms for play assessment; play grounds, football fields and jungle gyms onsite, access to clubhouse swimming facilities and more. A non-refundable application fee of RMB 7,500 is payable at the start of the application process. Beijing Riviera,1 Xiang Jiang Beilu, Jing Shun Lu, Chaoyang District, Shunyi District. (8470 2735, meryl.bailey@car eforchildrenservices.com) 顺义区朝阳区京顺路 香江北路1号香江花园 Children’s Learning Center of Beijing (CLCB) Established and run by mothers, CLCB offers a bilingual curriculum that alternates between Chinese and English.

Facilities include study rooms, a playroom, an activity room, a nap room, a garden and a playground. Ages 1 to 5. Price range: RMB

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29,800-89,000. 3056 Gahood Residence Villa, Baixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District.

(8046 7082, 136 7115 1760 (English), 136 1133 4043 (Chinese)) www.clcbkids.com 爱 嘉励儿童双语培训学校, 顺义区后沙峪乡白辛庄 嘉浩别墅 3056 Daystar Academy Daystar is the only school in China that offers a balance of Montessoribased English Education and the Chinese National Curriculum. The students spend half of their day in each language environment covering two curricula every day. This innovative approach brings together two cultures, and combines the strongest attributes of both Western and Eastern teaching methodologies. A progressive “Virtues in Us” character education program emphasizes nobility of character, academic excellence and parallel development in both English and Chinese.

Facilities include a library, ICT lab, science lab, music rooms, dance studio, workshop with cooking facilities, indoor gymnasium, and performance stage. Ages 3-12. K-Grade 6. RMB 86,000 (RMB 2,000 non-refundable registration fee). 2 Shunbai Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8430 2654, info@daystarchina.cn) 启明星双语学校, 朝阳 区朝阳区顺白路2号 Dulwich College Beijing At its three suburban campuses, Dulwich delivers an academic programme based on the National Curriculum for England and Wales but adapted for international education. In Foundation Stage (1 – 5 years), Dulwich follows the standards set in the English Early Years Foundation Stage framework through a play-based curriculum based on active learning, encouraging independence, problem solving and creative thinking. From Year 1 onwards, we offer the English National Curriculum leading into IGCSE in Years 10 and 11. The IB Diploma Programme is offered in Years 12 and 13. The school emphasizes four core areas: academic excellence; sport; the arts; and commitment to the community. Facilities include a 230 seat theatre, a black box theatre, 3 studios, 5 music practice rooms, a midi suite with recording studio, design and technology suites, drama studios, interactive LCD screens or SMARTboards, libraries, squash courts, tennis courts, two full sized football pitches, a cricket pitch, swimming pool, dance studio, rugby pitch, and a golf centre. Ages: 1 to 18. International students: Over 1,300. Price range: RMB 25,900-182,000. 1) Legend Garden Villas, 89 Jichang Lu, Shunyi District.

(6454 9000); 2) Beijing Riviera, 1 Xiangjiang Beilu, Jingshun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8450 7676); 3) River Garden Villas Kindergarten, Houshayu, Baixinzhuang, Shunyi District.

(8046 5132) www.dulwich-beijing.cn 北京德 威英国国际学校, 1) 顺义区机场路89号丽京花 园; 2) 朝阳区京顺路香江北路1号香江花园; 3) 顺义区后沙峪白辛庄裕京花园别墅 Eduwings Kindergarten Eduwings Kindergarten has two departments: One English/ Chinese, the other is German. Each department is split into three age groups (ages 2-3, ages 3-4, ages 5-6) and one infant group (ages 2 and below). All of the lead teachers and language teachers are native speakers and are able to provide individual support to each child. The kindergarten’s philosophy is: Every child needs to have roots and wings.

Roots to know where are they from and wings to explore the world. Programs and facilities include: swimming, saunas, music, art, a Montessori area, a library, P.E. classes and climbing, as well as an out door playground and yard. All afternoon activities are included the tuition fee: RMB 52,000-72,000 per yearly. Merlin Champagne Town, 6 Liyuan Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6450 8384) 顺 义区天竺镇丽苑街6号美林香槟小镇 Etonkids Bilingual Kindergarten Etonkids Bilingual Kindergarten’s nurturing and handson Montessori environments energize your child’s natural love of learning and exploring.

Your child benefits from native English and Chinese speaking teachers in each classroom, an accredited academic program, and pre-

*listings in orange are new to Directories miere educational facilities designed to harness your child’s independence, initiative and creativity. With classes taught 70% in English and 30% in Chinese, Etonkids Bilingual Kindergarten provides a warm multicultural Montessori environment with special focus on community, and strong links between home and school. Customized weekly and monthly reports allow you to follow your child’s continuing process. Ages 1.5-6, Price range: RMB 62,000-85,000. 1) Central Park Campus, Bldg 19, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6533 6620); 2) Eastern Provence Campus, Eastern Provence, 88 Dingsi Lu, Beiqijia, Changping District.

(8975 1102); 3) Dawang Road Peking House Campus, 19 Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District.

(5870 6778); 4) Arcadia Campus, Arcadia Villas, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8047 2983); 5) C103, Lido Country Club, Lido Place, Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6436 7368); 6) Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 5338); 7) Palm Springs International Apartments, 8 Chaoyang Gongyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6539 8967) www.etonkids.com 伊顿双 语幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区朝阳门外大街6号新城国际 19号楼; 2) 昌平区昌平区北七家镇定泗路88号; 3) 朝阳区大望路首府校园,朝阳区西大望路19号 首府社区; 4) 顺义区顺义区后沙峪阿凯笛亚 庄园内; 5) 朝阳区首都机场路丽都广场俱乐部 C103; 6) 顺义区天竺房地产开发区荣祥广场; 7) 朝阳区朝阳公园南路8号棕榈泉国际公寓 Etonkids International Kindergarten Etonkids International Kindergarten is the oldest school under the Etonkids umbrella.

Etonkids International Kindergarten classrooms feature authentic Montessori materials and are led by full-time caring and professional native English speaking teachers. With full or half-day options, Etonkids international Kindergarten prepares your child for the challenges ahead through strong foundations in the essential areas for young learners and the Etonkids Three C’s of Creativity, Character and Culture. At Etonkids International Kindergarten your child experiences the joy of learning through ongoing intellectual discoveries in unique hands-on environments.

Ages: 1.5 to 6. Price range: RMB 83,500-RMB 125,000. 1) Rm C103, Lido Country Club, Lido Place, Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6436 7368); 2) 3/F, Bldg D, Global Trade Mansion, Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6506 4805); 3) Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 5338) www.etonkids.com 伊顿国际学校, 1) 朝阳区北京首都机场路丽都广场俱乐部C103室; 2) 朝阳区光华路世贸国际公寓D座3层; 3) 顺义 区天竺房地产开发区荣祥广场 The Family Learning House This bilingual preschool integrates a character education program focused on instilling and developing virtues (such as responsibility, service and truthfulness) with a Montessori curriculum. In its campus, lead teachers in each classroom speak English with students, while all Chinese staff speak to students in Chinese; older students receive daily Chinese pinyin lessons.

Extracurricular activities include art, ballet and yoga. The campus has eight classrooms, a kitchen, a library, and an outdoor area.

Ages: 1.5 to 6. Price range: RMB 68,00085,050. Jianwai SOHO West Ward (in front of Bld. 14)., Chaoyang District. (5869 7540, administrator@thefamilylearninghouse.com) www.thefamilylearninghouse.com 家育苑, 朝 阳区东三环中路39号建外SOHO西区 Fangcaodi International School Fangcaodi is a state-run primary school that has been accepting foreign students for over 40 years.

Classes are in Chinese, with the exception of English language classes. The school uses the same textbooks as other Chinese schools in the municipality and places a strong emphasis on math and Chinese. Fee-based after-school activities include badminton, arts and crafts, wushu and rollerblading. Grades: 1 to 6. Price range: RMB 16,000-48,000 plus RMB 20,000 capital levy. 1 Ritan Beilu, Chaoyang District.

(8563 5120 ext 2005) www.fcd.com.cn 芳草 地小学, 朝阳区日坛北路1号

Directories

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Ganeinu International School Follows a Montessori curriculum and aims to “provide a warm, secure, Jewish environment where children can feel comfortable exploring and learning.” Coursework consists of math, sensorial, language, art and music, geography, Jewish studies and special events. Nursery, kindergarten and elementary classes available. Tuition ranges from RMB 66,000-130,000 a year. Bus and lunch service available. 18 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8470 8238) http://www.ganeinubeijing.com 朝阳区朝阳 区霄云路18号 Happy Baby Kindergarten At two separate campuses, Happy Baby offers a Montessoristyle curriculum delivered predominantly in Chinese. English classes are provided several times a week. Facilities include playgrounds, a library, and piano, reading, birthday and computer rooms. Currently, around half the students are international students. Special classes for children under 2 accompanied by a parent are offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. Note: Enrollment is full for 2009-10 academic year. Ages: 2.5 to 5. Price range: RMB 36,000 (RMB 450 transportation fee). 1) 23 Yiyuan Anhuibeili, Yayuncun, Chaoyang District. (6498 1518); 2) 22 Zhongli Xibahe, Chaoyang District. (6462 0449 ext 806) 至尊宝宝幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区亚 运村安慧北里逸园23号楼; 2) 朝阳区西坝河 中里22号楼 Harrow International School Beijing Harrow provides a British-style education to students from the age of three. Offering qualifications at GCSE, AS and A level, it aims to provide progression routes into British and international universities. Individual programs of study and tutorials are available.

The Lower School campus is situated in the countryside near Shunyi, on a campus that boasts interactive whiteboards, a library/media centre, a science lab, an art and design room, a computer lab, performing arts facilities as well as a gym and playing field and even a farm. The Upper School campus is in downtown Anzhenxili and offers courses as diverse as Latin and Philosophy. Ages: 3 to 18. Price range: RMB 96,000-179,300 inclusive of lunches and expeditions and all performances (plus RMB 3,000 application fee and RMB 4,000 for all uniforms).

1) Grassetown, Zhengequ Village, Xuxin Zhuang, Tongzhou District. (6444 5900, enquiries@harrowbeijing.cn); 2) 5 Anzhen Xili, Block 4, Chaoyang District. (6444 8900, enquiries@harrowbeijing.cn) www.harrowbeijing.cn 北京哈罗英国学校, 1) 通州区徐新庄镇 葛渠村格拉斯小镇; 2) 朝阳区安贞西里四区5号 House of Knowledge International Kindergarten This multi-lingual international kindergarten and preschool follows the Reggio Emilia and Montessori educational philosophies. Early childhood education program available for children ages 1.5 to 6 years.

Facilities include a big gym, climbing walls, large library, art areas, outdoor playground and a big roofed sandbox. 1) Victoria Gardens, Chaoyang Park Xilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (6538 2624 (English, Chinese and German), info@house-of-knowledge.net); 2) East Gate of Liyuan Compound, Maquanying Street, Chaoyang District. (139 1127 2029, 6434 0088, info@house-of-knowledge.net) www.house-of-knowledge.net 1) 朝阳区朝阳区朝阳公园西路维多利亚花园小区; 2) 朝阳区香江北路丽苑小区A11 Huijia Kindergarten Part of a nationwide chain, Huijia Kindergarten has 17 campuses and early childhood centers around Beijing.

The curriculum combines advanced international educational ideas, modern teaching methods and Chinese traditional culture and focuses on nurturing children to become international citizens. Coursework emphasizes basic concepts, skills, knowledge, attitudes and behaviors to enable and encourage students to become lifelong learners, taking responsibility for themselves, their studies, others, and the environment, and to take correct actions. Visit the website for more cam-

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Schools pus locations. 1) Huijia Longwan Experiential Early Childhood Education Center. Longwan Business Street, Yuyuan Lu, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8042 2245, hjkids@263.net); 2) Huijia Central Park Experimental Early Childhood Education Center. Bldg 24, Central Park Apartments, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6597 9358, hjkids@263. net) www.hjkids.com 汇佳幼儿园, 1) 顺义 区汇佳龙湾体验式早教中心. 顺义区后沙峪镇 裕园路龙湾商业街; 2) 朝阳区汇佳新城国际 体验式早教中心.朝阳区朝外大街6号新城国际 公寓24号楼 Indian Embassy School Located in and operated by the Indian Embassy, this school offers an Indian-style curriculum to 100 students from 36 different countries. Instruction is in English. Chinese classes are part of the curriculum, and extracurricular activities such as music, tennis, and tai chi are offered.

Ages: 4 to 11. Price range: available upon inquiry. 13 Guanghua Lu (inside the Indian Embassy), Chaoyang District. (6532 1827, indianembassyschoolbeijing@yahoo.com) 朝 阳区光华路13号（在印度大使馆内） International Academy of Beijing International Academy of Beijing began in 1999, it has gained accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), National Center for School Curriculum and Textbook Development (NCCT) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). IAB offers an American curriculum built upon the principles of truth and character. Their extensive academic program is enhanced by their popular optional after school program, giving students the opportunity to further develop their potential. ESL support is offered up to Grade 8 with daily Chinese instruction provided at all levels for non-ESL students. Their high school follows an American college-prep curriculum offering various AP courses. IAB is a registered testing center for the PSAT, SAT and AP tests.

Grades:K-12 (aged 5-18). Price range: RMB 112,000-166,000 incld. Capital fee (application fee RMB1620; ESL Program 12,500). 1) Secondary campus: 2 Yangshan Lu, Olympic Park East, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8493 8680); 2) Elementary campus: Lido Place, Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (6430 1600) www.iabchina.net AB国际学校, 1) 朝阳区北京市朝阳区奥 林匹克公园东侧仰山路2号; 2) 朝阳区中国北京 市朝阳区将台路6号丽都饭店3号办公楼 The International Montessori School of Beijing (MSB) MSB has been educating expatriate children for over 20 years in an environment designed to cultivate intellectual abilities, self-esteem, imagination and critical thinking. The school offers a half-day Toddler program and half- and full-day Nursery programs. Parents can enroll their older children in either a traditional English language Montessori curriculum (which features regular Chinese language classes) or a dual language Montessori program, taught in Chinese and English. The school has three suburban campuses which feature spacious classrooms, lending libraries, art rooms and big outdoor play areas – the main Cherry Tree Lane campus also boasts a science lab, computer lab, dedicated music room, football pitch and running track. Extracurricular activities include language clubs, Chinese painting, baking, wushu, football and swimming. Ages: 2-12.

Price range: RMB 79,300-142,000. 1) Champagne Cove Campus, 1 Shunfu Lu, Chaoyang District. (8945 2591); 2) Cherry Tree Lane Campus, Xiangjiang Beilu, 18 Maquanying Lu, Shunyi District. (6432 8228); 3) River Garden Campus, Houshayu, Baixinzhuang, Shunyi District. (8046 3935) www.msb.edu.cn 北京蒙 台梭利国际学校, 1) 朝阳区金碧湖畔校区顺福 路1号; 2) 顺义区樱桃园校区马泉营路18号; 3) 顺义区后沙峪白辛庄裕京花园附近 The International School of Beijing (ISB) Beijing’s largest English-language school has more than 1,800 students from 50 nations and a history of more than 25 years.

ISB’s Standards-based curriculum is drawn

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from the best international standards and benchmarks. It offers both the IB diploma program and select Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and graduates earn a US high school diploma. All students study a foreign language and ESOL support is available. The 32-acre campus boasts a 600-seat high-tech theater, swimming pool, indoor rock climbing wall, large art department, computer facilities and well-equipped science labs as well as a big “Outdoor Learning Environment.” Accreditations and affiliations include NEASC, CIS, NCCT; IB World School. Ages: 3-Grade 12.

Price range: USD 18,350-27,760. 10 Anhua Jie (near Capital Paradise), Shunyi District.

(8149 2345) www.isb.bj.edu.cn 北京顺义国际 学校, 顺义区安华街10号(名都园附近) Ivy Academy Ivy Academy boasts a team of foreign teachers trained at the world’s top universities, who teach a curriculum based on the Multiple Intelligences theory developed at Harvard. The teacher-to-student ratio is 1:5. Parents receive customized weekly and monthly reports allowing them to follow their child’s development. Classes are conducted in English and only children with previous exposure to English are admitted after the age of 4. School facilities include a kids’ kitchen, a playground and sports courts. Ages: 2 to 6. Price range: RMB 78,000-116,000 (plus RMB 200 registration fee). Suite C101, East Lake Villas, 35 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District. (8451 1380/1381, InfoEL@ivyschools.com) www.ivyschools.com 艾 毅幼儿园, 东城区东直门外大街35号东湖别墅 C101室 Ivy Bilingual School Ivy Bilingual School teaches a curriculum informed by the Multiple Intelligences theory. Both Chinese- and English-speaking teachers are present in the classroom at the same time in order to offer a truly bilingual environment. Students are expected to understand, speak, read and write basic characters by the time they graduate from the program; about 60% of the children enrolled at Ivy Bilingual graduate into local elementary schools, while about 40% move on to international schools. Ages: 2 to 6. Price range: RMB 35,600-52,500 (plus RMB 200 registration fee). 1) 18 Xinjin Lu, Cuige Xiang (near WAB), Chaoyang District. (8439 7080, Info-OE@ivyschools.com (Ocean Express Bilingual Campus), Info-OG@ivyschools. com Orchid Garden Bilingual Campus; 2) Ocean Express, Bldg E, 2 Dongsanhuan Lu (north of the Kempinski Hotel), Chaoyang District. (8446 7287, Info-OE@ivyschools. com (Ocean Express Bilingual Campus), InfoOG@ivyschools.com Orchid Garden Bilingual Campusï) www.ivyschools.com 艾毅双语幼儿 园, 1) 朝阳区崔各乡新锦路18号(临近京西学 校); 2) 朝阳区东三环北路丙2号远洋新干线E座 (凯宾斯基饭店往北) KEer Apple International Kindergarten (Pingod) Monthly tuition starts at RMB 3,500, with a RMB 5,000 deposit and initial payment of RMB 10,000. Offers some English instruction and limited Montessori curriculum in the afternoons (with an “international” section) and open year round. Baiziwan Nan Er Lu (next to BCIS), Chaoyang District. (5876 9605, keerapple@yahoo.cn) http://www. keereducation.com/fen12/Default.asp 苹果 幼儿园 KinStar Bilingual School In addition to a bilingual kindergarten, KinStar also runs a bilingual elementary school. The school follows curriculum guidelines issued by the Chinese Ministry of Education for instruction in Chinese and a US-style curriculum for instruction in English. Both ESOL and Chinese support classes are available. Facilities at the elementary school building include music, art and dance studios, a spacious library, a running track, a tennis court and a basketball field, and the campus is equipped to accommodate handicapped children. Grades: Pre-K to 7. Price range: RMB 42,000-80,000 (plus RMB 1,600 registration fee and RMB 5,000-10,000 capital levy). Kindergarten and Elementary School: 5 Yumin Road, Houshayu,

*listings in orange are new to Directories Shunyi District. (8041 0390) 海嘉双语国际学 校, 顺义区后沙峪裕民大街5号 The Learning Center The Learning Center opened its doors in June 2004, and has since worked with more than 600 local and expatriate students in the Shunyi area. TLC offers academic group workshops and individual tutoring in a wide range ofsubjects for students ages 5 to 18. Parenting programs are also available, including adult education and child development workshops. TLC tutors are native English speaking professional educators with an understanding of the international school curricula across Beijing. Mon-Fri 10am8pm, Sat 9.30am-4.30pm. 2108 Gahood Villa, Houshayu, Xibaixinzhuang, Shunyi District.

(8046 3886, registration@learningcenter.com. cn) www.thelearningcenter.cn 顺义区后沙峪西 白辛庄嘉浩别墅2108号 Lycée Français International de Pékin (The French School) The LFIP is administered in accordance with the guidelines established by the French Ministry of Education.

Classes are taught in French, but non-Frenchspeaking children are admitted into the kindergarten (which is on a separate campus), and the elementary school. This school has full sports and extracurricular programs.

Ages: 2 to 18. Price range: EUR 5,070-9,270 (French children), EUR 5,810-10,630 (nonFrench children). 1) Primary and Secondary School: 13 Sanlitun Dongsijie, Chaoyang District. (6532 3498); 2) Kindergarten: 4 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6532 7881) http://www.lfip.net.cn/ 1) 朝阳区三里屯东四 街13号; 2) 朝阳区三里屯路4号 Mammolina Children’s Home A bilingual kindergarten that opened its doors in August 2005, Mammolina offers a Montessori curriculum covering practical life, language, math, cultural studies, art and music, and more. The school boasts a huge classroom, limited enrollment of 30 children, a kitchen area, a spacious garden/playground area, as well as a library for parents. Ages: 1 to 7. Price range: RMB 96,750-134,865 (plus RMB 4,860 lunch fee, RMB 6,480-8,100 bus fee). 36 Maquanying Siqu , Xiangjiang Beilu, Chaoyang District. (8470 5128) www.montessori.ws 三为园幼儿园, 朝阳区香江北路马泉 营四区36号 Mandarin Connections Improve your spoken or business Chinese. Also holds HSK & BCT preparation courses. Classes also available for kids and teenagers. 26/F, Rm 11-12, 1 Blue Castle International Center, Dawang Xilu, Chaoyang District. (8599 7183, info@chinamcedu.com) www.mandarin-connections.com 朝阳区朝阳区西大望路3号院蓝堡 国际中心1座2611-2612室 New Garden International Kindergarten This bilingual school combines in Fuli Cheng features Western and Eastern teaching styles with Chinese and native English speaking teachers. Equipped with a children’s kitchen, library, inside and outside play areas. For ages 1.5-6, 6-12 years. Area D, Fu Li Cheng (North of Shuang Jing Bridge),East 3rd Ring RD, Chaoyang District. (5876 6675 / 1319) 新园双语幼儿园, 朝阳区富力城新园双语幼儿 园. 朝阳区东三环双井桥北富力城D区西门 Pakistan Embassy College This embassyrun school offers two types of curricula: the Pakistan national curriculum, and an English curriculum associated with London University that offers GCSE and A-level qualifications.

Both curricula are taught in English, but a number of ESOL students are accepted, and remedial English classes are provided. Chinese language classes are mandatory for all except senior-level students. An enrollment of 400 students from more than 40 different countries makes for an excellent studentteacher ratio and a diverse student body.

School facilities include science, computer and language laboratories, and a gymnasium and indoor basketball court. Ages: 4 to 18.

Price range: RMB 2,500-5,400/month 1 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (6532 1905) 朝阳区三里屯东直门外

Directories

Schools

大街1号 Pentagram Chinese Kids learn Chinese in a fun environment. Classes start at the beginning of each month. And are available in two age groups, 5-7 and 8-10 years old. Spoken Chinese and business Chinese courses are also offered. Rm 301, Rui Chen International Center, 13 Nongzhanguan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6500 5755) www.pentagram-chinese.com 朝阳区朝阳农展馆南路13号瑞辰国 际中心301室 Ritan School This public school has four separate divisions open to international students: an elementary school, two middle schools and a high school. A bilingual program is offered at the elementary school, but the middle and high school divisions follow the Chinese national curriculum and instruction is in Chinese only. In addition to academics, students participate in a range of electives and extracurricular activities, including the celebrated school band. Grades: 1 to 12. Price range: RMB 17,000-36,800. 1) High School: 4 Guanghua Xili, Chaoyang District.

(6503 1815); 2) Middle School: Inside Beijing No. 80 Middle School, 2 Baijiazhuang Xili, Chaoyang District. (6500 4609); 3) High School (senior year only): 36 Dongsanhuan Beilu (south of Tsinghua University’s Central Academy of Fine Arts), Chaoyang District.

(6581 4083); 4) Elementary and Middle School: 38 Nanshiliju (south of Jiuxian Qiao), Chaoyang District. (6438 2945) http://rtzx. bjchyedu.cn 北京日坛中学, 1) 朝阳区光华西 里4号; 2) 朝阳区白家庄西里2号白家庄中学里 面; 3) 朝阳区东三环北路36号清华大学美术学 院南; 4) 朝阳区南十里居38号(酒仙桥南) Sanlitun Kindergarten This local kindergarten enrolls international students. Instruction is in Chinese and the school places a strong focus on physical exercise. Special classes for children ages 2.5 and accompanied by a parent are offered every week; the standard kindergarten program runs daily. Ages: 2 to 6. Price Range: RMB 500-1000/month (children under 3), RMB 10,000 (plus RMB 450/month childcare fee) (children ages 3-6).

3 Jiqingli, Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6551 0877) 三里屯幼儿园, 朝阳区朝 阳门外大街吉庆里3号 Side by Side Side by Side is a wholly foreign owned and run center providing support for children with special needs and learning difficulties. They offer special education and learning support as well as special needs support such as social skills, music therapy and vocational training opportunities. Capital Paradise 3336, Shunyi Distrcict, Shunyi District. (8046 3858, info@sidebysidebeijing. com) www.sidebysidebeijing.com/ 顺义区后沙 浴，名都园3336, 顺义区 St Paul American Preparatory School, Beijing This is a private school for grades 7-12 leading to an accredited American and Chinese dual diploma. The curriculum, social studies, science, math, English, music, IT, PE, Art is American, but students also receive Chinese language, culture and history courses. Also offers TOEFL and SAT classes to non-American students. Teaching Staff is all American in addition to Chinese language instructors. Student size: 140 international students. Facilities include an IT Library, theatre, assembly hall, music and fine arts rooms, labs, gymnasium- indoor gym, pool, outdoor track, soccer field, dormitories and a large cafeteria. The school has a full time nurse on campus. Price range: USD 14,00018,000 (includes room and board), plus USD 100 for application and USD 850 for enrollment. 18 Guan’aoyuan, Qinghe, Haidian District. (8070 3420, stpauladmissions@hotmail. com) www.stpaulschool.cn 北京师范大学第二 附属中学, 海淀区清河宝胜里观澳园18号 Swedish School Beijing This school’s language of instruction is Swedish, but the curriculum encompasses broader Scandinavian culture. To be admitted, either the child or one parent must be fluent in a Scandinavian language. Ages: 2 to 12. Price range: RMB

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Directories

Schools

50,000-147,000 (includes lunch), including RMB 1,500 application fee, RMB 8,950-10,400 school bus fee and RMB 10,000 for supplementary Swedish lessons. Gahood Villa, Xi baixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District.

(6456 0826/7) www.swedishschool.org.cn 瑞 典小学, 顺义区后沙峪镇西白辛庄嘉浩别墅 Teremok Russian Kindergarten Beijing’s first Russian kindergarten offers a trilingual curriculum – in Russian, English and Chinese – that conforms to the best practices of the Russian education system. Taught in a secure and caring environment, the balanced curriculum includes arts and crafts, math, singing and dancing, drama and science activities. Ages: 2-7. Price range: RMB 2,000 per month and up, plus RMB 2500 application fee. Building 29, Xingfu’ercun, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (8406 2479, 138 1113 6196) 朝阳区朝阳区工体北路幸福二村29号楼 The Children’s House Montessori Kindergarten Established in 1991, The Children’s House offers baby group, nursery, preschool and kindergarten programs taught in English by certified Montessori teachers. In addition, the Lufthansa Center campus, Yosemite campus and the new Yayuxin campus offer a bilingual program. Extracurricular activities offered include Chinese, piano, ballet, music, kung fu, swimming,ice skating, cooking, English as an additional language, arts and crafts, art and music appreciation and culture classes. Mathematics and English Reception Classes, intended to secure the fundamentals of numbers, reading and writing before primary school, are offered to students ages 4 and up. Ages: 0 to 6.

Price range: RMB 23,000-60,000 (plus RMB 1,600 registration fee). 1) Yosemite Villas, 4 Yuyang Lu, Houshayu Zhen, Shunyi District.

(8041 7083); 2) Unit 114, Lufthansa Center Tower, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6465 1305); 3) 1/F, North Lodge, China World Trade Center, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 3869); 4) Yayun Xinxin Kindergarten, Yayun Xinxin Jiayuan, 1 Xindian Lu, Chaoyang District. (5202 0293) www.montessoribeijing.com 北京巧智博仁国 际幼儿园, 1) 顺义区后沙峪镇榆杨路4号优山美 地别墅区; 2) 朝阳区亮马桥路50号凯宾斯基写 字楼114室; 3) 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸北 公寓１层; 4) 朝阳区辛店路1号亚运新新家园林 澜园2号楼1单元102室 The Children’s Learning Center of Beijing The Children’s Learning Center of Beijing, a nursery-through-kindergarten learning center located in Shunyi District’s Gahood Villas compound, dates back to 2002 and provides flexible and affordable early childhood experiences as well as a variety of extra-curricular

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programs. Classes are taught in Chinese and English, with German mother-tongue instruction also available. CLCB offers flexibility for families through its half- and full-day classes, as well as part-time (minimum two days per week) and full-time (5 days per week) schedules. From the play-based nursery school curriculum on up to the advanced language and mathematics kindergarten coursework, CLCB strives to ensure children are provided with a warm and comforting atmosphere in which to learn and grow. 3056 Gahood Villa, Baixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District.

(8046 7082, administration@clcbkids.com) http://www.clcbkids.com 爱嘉励儿童双语培训 学校, 顺义区后沙峪乡白辛庄嘉浩别墅 3056 Touchdown! This education consulting firm provides help to Chinese and expat parents in choosing and applying to the US undergraduate programs, private high schools, and boarding schools. Offers extensive training, including essay writing, interviewing, and career planning. Highly experienced and dedicated consultants work directly with parents and students throughout the entire application process. Achieved recognition for successfully coaching applicants to get accepted top US universities. Daily 8.30am6pm. 15/F, Rm 7, Bldg B, The Gate Building, 19 Zhongguancun Lu, Haidian District. (8447 7020/6422) www.touchdown.org.cn 海淀区 拓达周华咨询. 海淀区中关村大街19号新中关 大厦B座1507室 Tsinghua International School Tsinghua International School students follow an American Curriculum program in a nurturing atmosphere. Tsinghua International School located on Tsinghua University campus, allowing students access to the university’s extensive resources and facilities, including libraries, computer labs, gymnasiums, sports fields, dance and art studios, a swimming pool, fitness center and outdoor experiential education center. Accepts students Grades 1 to 12. Zhong Guan Cun Beilu (Northwest of Tsinghua University), Haidian District, Haidian District. (6279 7000, this@mail.tsinghua.edu. cn) www.this.edu.cn 海淀区海淀区中关村北路 清华大学西北侧 Western Academy of Beijing WAB students follow the International Baccalaureate programs (PYP, MYP, DP) in a nurturing atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community among its 1,500 students from over 50 countries. WAB’s lake and model wetlands on campus are the foundation of its environmental science center. WAB’s extensive resources and beautiful facilities also include three libraries, computer labs, gymnasiums, state-of-the-art sports fields, dance and art studios, a swimming pool and climbing wall,

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and an off-campus outdoor experiential education center. Across WAB’s wireless campus, Nursery-Grade 12 students use technology as a tool to enhance learning, with a 1:1 laptop-to-child ratio beginning in Grade 3.

Grades: Nursery (age 3) to 12. Price range: RMB 85,000-204,000 (with capital levy). 10 Laiguangying Donglu (off the Airport Expressway), Chaoyang District. (8456 4155) www. wab.edu 北京京西学校, 朝阳区来广营东路10号 Windsor Bilingual Kindergarten With two campuses in the Beijing area, Windsor Bilingual Kindergarten positions itself as a “premium kindergarten built on a synthesis of the strongest elements from both Western and Chinese educational traditions.” The school strives to foster the holistic development of young children, and prides itself on its spacious facilities (encompassing 5,500 sqm at the Vancouver Forest campus), state-of-theart facilities and carefully crafted curriculum based on three main components – the EYFS Statutory Framework (UK), Beijing Curriculum Authority Happiness and Development Guidance, and the Integrated Theme Study Programme (Nanjing) – taught by staff that trains regularly in conjunction with that of Dulwich College. A foreign teacher is in class all day at the Legend Garden Campus and for half of the day at the Vancouver Forest Campus. Tuition ranges from RMB 43,80080,000 a year at Legend Gardens (half or full day, respectively) and RMB 30,000-58,000 at Vancouver Forest (half or full day, respectively). 1) 89 Legend Garden, Shunyi District.

(6456 0020); 2) Vancouver Forest, Beiqijia Town, Litang Lu, Changping District. (6975 6579) www.vancouver.windsorkindergarten. cn, legendgardens.windsorkindergarten.cn 温 莎双语幼儿园, 1) 顺义区温莎丽京园位于北京 首都机场路89#丽京花园别墅; 2) 昌平区温莎 温哥华森林园具体.昌平区立汤路北七家镇温哥 华森林别墅 Yew Chung International School YCIS Beijing offers a distinctive bilingual program designed to equip students to be bilingual, caring and globally minded citizens. The curriculum is based on the National Curriculum for England and leads to the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) and IB Diploma Programme.

Facilities include state-of-the-art computer labs, interactive whiteboards, science labs, music suites, a gymnasium, performing arts centre, and auditorium. With over 800 students from 40 nationalities, YCIS Beijing has been in operation since 1995 and is a part of the Yew Chung Education Foundation that also runs schools in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Chongqing, and Qingdao as well as in California. Grades: K2 to Year 13. Price range: RMB 52,290-138,000 (RMB 1,660 application

fee, plus optional: RMB 9,300-10,960 bus fee and approx. RMB 5,800 lunch fee). East gate of Honglingjin Park, 5 Houbali Zhuang (near East Fourth Ring Road), Chaoyang District.

(8583 3731, enquiry@bj.ycef.com) www.ycef. com/beijing 北京耀中国际学校, 朝阳区后八里 庄5号红领巾公园东门

Shopping Directory Bookstores Beijing Book Building Take the escalator to the basement to find a large but eclectic range of English-language books. The staff is fluent in English and happy to help you search for a particular title. Dictionaries and books related to learning Chinese language can also be found on the third floor. Daily 9am-9pm. 17 Xichang’an Jie, (right near Xidan subway station), Xicheng District. (6607 8477) www.bjbb.com 北京图书大厦, 西城区 西长安大街17号 Beijing Star Kids Children’s Bookstore This children’s bookstore sells a range of soft- and hard-cover English-language books from big-name publishers in the US, Canada, Australia, Italy and the UK. Kids up to age 16 should be able to find something that tickles their fancy. Francophiles will be interested in the store’s small selection of French-language study materials. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. Rm 1205, Bldg D, Xingyuan International Apartments, 222 Wangjing Xiyuan, Chaoyang District. (8472 7131) 朝阳区朝阳 区望京西园222号星源国际公寓D座1205室 Big and Little Books Specializes in imported English children’s books, including a range of books in creative formats that are great for younger readers, such as pop-up books, books with sound, and cloth books. 1) 10 am-10pm. Shop 4001N, 5/F, Golden Resource Mall, 1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District. (135 5237 3200); 2) 9.30am-8pm. 102A,Beiing Lido Holiday Inn, Jiangtai Lu, Airport Expressway, Chaoyang District. (6437 6338); 3) Daily 10am-10pm. F4, Wangjing Mall, 33 Guangshun Beidajie, Wangjing, Chaoyang District.

(8478 0428) 小逗号儿童书店, 1) 海淀区远 大路1号金源新燕莎五层4001N; 2) 朝阳区首 都机场路将台路丽都假日饭店102A; 3) 朝阳 区望京广顺北大街33号嘉茂（望京华联）购 物中心四层 The BookMark The BookMark offers a wide range of books for the whole family, in English and other languages, including a sizable selection of children’s literature. Children can enjoy regular book club gatherings and a weekly thematic story hour with integrated art activities. A family membership (RMB 500)

*listings in orange are new to Directories gets you and your crew the chance to borrow five books for up to two weeks at a time.

Wed-Sat 10am-4pm. 1 Kaifa Jie (between Ms. Shanen’s Bagels and Smallville Café), Xibaixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District.

(8049 9175, shunyilibrary@aol.com) www. bookmarkbeijing.com 顺义区后沙峪西白辛庄 开发街1号 The Bookworm English language books to borrow or buy. Book larvae can graze in the library’s Kiddies’ Corner, which houses childsize chairs and toys in addition to books. A family library membership (RMB 500) allows your family to borrow up to six books for two weeks at a time. A growing selection of for-sale books includes favorites like Wicked Chickens and The Gruffalo’s Child. In addition, The Bookworm’s Kids Club offers both young children and teens opportunities to share books with their peers. 1) Mon-Sat 8am-8pm,Sun 8am-5pm. The First Courtyard, Hegezhuang Village, Shunyi District.

(6431 2108, books@beijingbookworm. com, kidsclub@beijingbookworm. com); 2) Daily 9am-2am. Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6586 9507, books@beijingbookworm.com, kidsclub@beijingbookworm.com) www. chinabookworm.com 书虫书吧, 1) 顺义区 崔各庄乡，何各庄村一号院; 2) 朝阳区工体 北路4号院 Lufthansa Center This Chaoyang area favorite features classic children’s tomes in English like the Random House Step Reader series, creative activity books and shelves of encyclopedias. The store’s stock has recently grown a little, and books for kids up to middle school age are on offer. Daily 10am-10pm.

52 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1188 ext 675) 燕莎购物中心, 朝阳区亮马 桥路52号 Poplar Kids Republic Bookstore A children’s bookstore with a comfortable play area inside. Daily 10am-7pm. Rm 1362, Bldg 13, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5869 3032) www.poplar. com.cn 蒲蒲兰绘本馆, 朝阳区东三环中路 39号建外Soho13号楼1362

Clothing Chang & Biorck This modern Scandinavian home accessories store is stocked with colorful, environmentally-friendly products made by well-known designers who blend Scandinavian and Chinese concepts of style.

In addition to their home wares, find a small range of beautifully made kids clothes. Daily 10am-10pm. 2-19A, 1/F, Bldg 2, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District.

(8400 2296) 朝阳区三里屯南路19号三里屯 Village南区2号楼1层2-19A单元 Embroidered Shoes Exquisitely embroidered with floral motifs, the pink, hot red and pure white slippers sold here will have your daughter feeling like Cinderella. Moms with small feet can join in the fun; sizes go up to woman’s 39 (starting at RMB 50).

Daily 10am-8pm. Jinjie, Laitai Flower Market, Nuren Jie, Chaoyang District. 女人街绣花鞋, 朝阳区莱太花卉市场女人街金街 Jacadi If you feel like splurging on baby shoes or an outfit for a special occasion, nothing beats this French store. Prices are sky high, but who’s counting when the clothes are so stylish? If your credit card can take more punishment, visit the other kid’s clothing stores in the China World Shopping Mall. Daily 10am-9.30pm. NB135-137, B1/F, China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 0766) 亚卡 迪, 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸商城地下1层 NB135-137 les enphants Asia-wide Taiwan based chain of children’s wear stores sells clothing and shoes by Les Enphants, Disney, Oshkosh, Combi, Nuk Nuk and more. 8.30am-10.30pm.

2/F Shuangjing Carrefour, Chaoyang District.

(8586 1350) http://www.phland.com.cn/LYF/ cn/index/index.aspx 丽婴房, 朝阳区广渠路

31号家乐福超市二层 Mothercare Mothercare, the acclaimed British brand, is a global specialist retailer of clothing, home and travel and toys for mothers to be, babies and young children.

Sells hard-to-find clothes for kids age 6 and younger, as well as a wide range of nursery furniture and nursery equipment. Find maternity clothes, strollers, bedding, car seats, playpens, baby monitors, children’s clothes and other elusive products at this chain.

Daily 11am-10pm. SMM-42, 1/F, Solana, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District.

(5905 6134) 朝阳区朝阳公园路6号蓝色港湾国 际商区SMM-42 Solana Located inside Chaoyang Park, Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park has a fine collection of shops, restaurants, cafes and sporting facilities. Venues include British baby shop Mothercare, the perfect place to stock up on all things related to kids, pregnancy and moms. Other highlights include Banana Leaf Thai Restaurant, Romana Ice Cream, Cold Stone Creamery, a cinema, an ice rink and much more. Daily 10am-10pm. 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5905 6565/68) http://www.solana.com.cn/english/ web/index.asp 蓝色港湾, 朝阳区朝阳公园路 6号蓝色港湾国际商区 Sunny Baby Kids’ Clothing With its collection of inexpensively priced dresses, pants, sweaters, shirts, shorts and socks, Sunny will brighten your infant-to-4-year-old’s day.

Daily 10am-9pm. 562 Jiayi Vogue Square, 3A Xinyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6466 3028) 阳光宝贝童装, 朝阳区新源南路甲3号 佳艺广场562号 Tang’ Roulou Formerly called Xiao Fu Xing, this boutique is run by French native Amelie and her Chinese boyfriend Akai. Their beautiful kids clothes are made from cotton fabrics sourced from the countryside, and the couple design and make traditional Chinese garments, including mian’ao and mian’ku (padded jacket and pants), padded tiger shoes and boots, as well as qipaos (Chinese dresses). The clothes are available to fit children from one to five years old.

Tot to Teen Moderately priced children’s clothing, including a quality selection of infant layette, toddler pajamas and preteen everyday wear. 1) Daily 9am-7pm. 703 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 4419, tot-toteen@hotmail.com); 2) Daily 10am-7pm. Stall 102, 30 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 9640, tot-to-teen@hotmail.com) 红马车儿童 用品商店, 1) 顺义区天竺房地产开发区荣祥 广场703号; 2) 朝阳区三里屯路30号102商店

Directories District. (6597 0717, johanna@babygro.com. cn); 2) Daily, 10am-5pm. Shop 1, Complex 3, Jingmi Lu, (close to WAB School), Chaoyang District. (8470 1690, johanna@babygro.com. cn) www.babygro.com.cn/ 慧宝, 1) 朝阳区 朝外街6号新城国际9号楼105; 2) 朝阳区北京 市朝阳区京密路来广营东路路口东 3号红木大 院 B-01 （京西学校附近） Brand Nu A place where you can donate your old clothes, books, magazines, trinkets and other accessories, and pick up as-goodas-new goodies of like kind. Tue-Sun, 10am10pm, closed Mon. 61 Wudaoying Hutong (just west of Vineyard Cafe), Dongcheng District. (150 1115 3421) Brand 女, 东城区东 城区五道营胡同61号 Carrefour Drawn by the low prices, the crowds in these stores can be thick and fierce.

Try coming on a weekday to stock up on diapers, creams, breast pads, sipping cups, pacifiers, wet wipes, baby shampoos, soaps and powdered milk. You’ll also find cribs, high chairs, potties and pink Cinderella bikes. 1) Daily 8.30am-10.30pm. 6B Beisanhuan Donglu (beside the International Exhibition Center), Chaoyang District. (8460 1043); 2) 8.30am10pm. 48 Jiukeshu Xilu, Tongzhou District.

(5167 8911 ext.55); 3) Daily 8.30am-10.30pm.

31 Guangqu Lu, Chaoyang District. (5190 9508); 4) Daily 8.30am-10.30pm. 56A Zhongguancun Plaza, Haidian District. (5172 1516/7); 5) Daily 8am-10pm. 15, 2 Zone, Fangchengyuan, Fangzhuang, Fengtai District.; 6) Daily 8am-10pm. 54A Baishiqiao Lu (east of Beijing Zoo), Xicheng District. (8836 2729); 7) Daily 8am-10pm. 11 Malian Dao, Xuanwu District. www.carrefour.com.cn, e-shop.carrefour.com 家乐福, 1) 朝阳区北三环东路乙6号(中国国际 展览中心正门旁); 2) 通州区九棵树西路48号; 3) 朝阳区广渠路31号; 4) 海淀区中关村广场甲 56号; 5) 丰台区方庄芳城园二区15号; 6) 西城 区白石桥路甲54号; 7) 宣武区马连道11号 Counting Sheep Children’s Boutique Counting Sheep offers gear for moms, dads and kids. From maternity clothes, baby furniture, baby shower gifts to party items. International brands include Stokke, Bloom, Boob, Baby Bjorn, Ergo Carriers, Hotslings, Bravado, Chicobello, Fleurville, BamBam, Big Bobby Cars, and Trunki. 1) 10am-6pm. Pinnacle Avenue, Linyin Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6457 1480, ask@countingsheepboutique.com); 2) SunThurs 10am-7pm, Fri-Sat 10am-8pm. 17 Gongti Beilu (1/F of Bodhi bldg, directly across from north gate of Workers Stadium), Chaoyang District. (6417 7622, ask@countingsheepboutique. com) www.countingsheepboutique.com 洋洋宝 宝店, 1) 顺义区顺义区天竺镇丽苑街荣和商业 中心21号楼; 2) 朝阳区朝阳区工体北路17号（ 工体北门对面）

Whale Baby Clothing These shops have not a single garment for young cetaceous mammals, but they do a brisk trade in toddler-to-preteen quilted coats with embroidered flowers, sparkly jeans and shoes decorated with soccer balls on the side. 1) Daily 9am-9pm. 2A Dongzhimen Nanjie, Dongcheng District. (6413 1550); 2) Daily 9am-8pm. 1/F, Gold Peacock Art Center,13 Dongtucheng Lu, Chaoyang District. (6428 5745); 3) Daily 9am-8pm. 7 Gongti Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6551 4622) 鲸鱼宝宝童 装, 1) 东城区东直门南大街甲2号; 2) 朝阳 区东土城路13号，金孔雀艺术中心1层; 3) 朝 阳区工体南路7号

Home Accessories and Gear BabyGro Beijing BabyGro specializes in high quality, safe and creative baby and kids products, as well as some pregnancy and maternity items, imported from around the world. Owned by Beijing mum of 2, Johanna Selth, the range is tried and tested by herself and other Beijing mums. Stocking brands including Grobag, Ergo, Baby Carriers, Earth Mama, Angel Baby, Boon and Bezoar Kids Cashmere, and now Cotton Candy Kids clothing. 1) Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. Shop 105, Tower 9, Central Park, 6 Chaowai Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang

Shopping

including extendable beds, high chairs, changing tables, cupboard units and Patrull safety equipment (cabinet/door locks, safety gates, corner bumpers, window catches, etc.). Save your skin by paying to have Ikea technicians assemble your purchases at home. Daily 10am10pm. 1 Taiyang Gonglu, Dongbahe (northwest corner of Siyuan Qiao), Chaoyang District. (800 810 5679) www.ikea.com.cn 宜家家居, 朝阳区 东坝河太阳宫路1号（四元桥西北角） Pantry Magic Hong Kong based kitchenware shop is your one-stop source for all kinds of Western cooking equipment - blenders, baking ware, ceramics, cookbooks and more. Over 300 items in stock. No. 81, Nali Patio, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (5208 6001, bj-info@pantrymagic.com) http://www.pantry-magic.com/ 朝 阳区朝阳区三里屯北路81号那里花园 Roundabout Charity Distribution Store is a non-profit organization run by volunteers that accepts donations from the community and distributes them to people in need. They accept donations of almost anything: clothing, furniture and much more. Any items that are not needed by the charities, such as handbags and jewelery, are sold in the shop section of our store. All money generated here goes to fund our operation; truck hire, rent etc.

Mon-Sat 9.30am-6pm. Roundabout,Kaifa Jie, Xi Baixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi, near Mrs Shannen’s Bagels, Shunyi District. (13718 777 761 ( English ) 13718 053 814 (Chinese) 顺义 区开发街后沙峪顺义区

Villa Lifestyles Villa Lifestyles has been serving Beijing communities for four years. Discover a wide selection of BBQs and accessories, the Mosquito Magnet, trampolines, IQAir Air Purifiers and more. F/4, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (8046 1260, 6457 1922, info@villalifestyles.cn) www.villalifestyles. cn 顺义区天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆广场四层

Organic Goods Agrilandia Italian Farm Fireplace Restaurant Daily 9am-9pm. Baigezhuangcun, Mapozhen, Shunyi District. (6940 7700, 130 0127 1094) www.agrilandia.cn 意大利农场壁炉 餐厅, 顺义区马坡镇白各庄村 BHG Market Place 1) SMM06, SOLANA Lifestyle Shopping Park, Chaoyang District.; 2) SLG00, The Village at Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (6415 8226); 3) B1, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 5888) 1) 朝阳区蓝色港湾国际商区SMM06号; 2) 朝阳 区三里屯VillageSLG00号商铺; 3) 朝阳区建国路 87号新光天地B1层

The Debonair Design Studio Offers design consultation and manufacturing. With overseas educated designers, they provide clients with Chinese, American, modern, European and rustic interior decorating solutions. Services include interior design, interior accessories design, sale of curtain fabrics and sofa fabrics, upholstered furniture making, sale of ornaments. B1-18 Diplomatic Residence Compound, 19 Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District (8459 3667, Debonair@vip.sina.comcustomer) www. debonair.com.cn. 北京轻松元素艺术设计工 作室. t朝阳区东方东路19号官舍(外交公寓会 所)B1-18 Ikea Stocks a wide range of children’s gear,

De Run Wu Translating as “House of Virtue,” this family-run organic farm consists of a greenhouse growing over 100 types of crops year-round. Visitors can purchase produce for RMB 20 per kilo (minimum 4 kilos) and they deliver for an additional RMB 20 on two runs a week. They also sells organic detergents, soap nuts, natural cleaners and more. Rm 813, 60 Shunhuang Lu, Danshui Town, Chaoyang District. (8459 0809, jiyunliang@vip.163.com) 朝 阳区朝阳区顺黄路60号 God’s Grace Garden Members pay a one-time RMB 1,000 deposit to subscribe to the produce from this self-sustaining organic farm. Seasonal produce (RMB 10 per kilo), eggs, soy milk, tofu and more are available. Orders are a minimum

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RMB 100 with free delivery (orders less than RMB 100 come with a RMB 10 delivery fee).

Jiang Village, Liangxiang, Fangshan District.

(137 0127 7398, will2bdone@yahoo.com) www.youjinongzhuang.com 有机农庄, 房山 区房山区良乡江村 Green Cow Organic Farm Donggezhuan (10 min north of the new International Exhibition Center), Houshayu Zhen, Shunyi District. (8046 4301, 135 0113 6920, 6433 4435 (fax), thelovelygreencow@gmail.com) 绿牛有机农庄, 顺义区北京绿牛有机农场（ 北京京承高速与机场北线交汇处的东北方向 董各庄附近） Green Yard Organic Milk and Yogurt Regular weekly/bi-weekly deliveries of fresh organic milk (including goat’s milk) and organic yogurt produced on an organic dairy farm. English speaking ordering hotline and e-mail ordering available. (800 810 9903, 6506 5855, 139 0128 2292, organiclife@greenyard.cn) Little Donkey Farm Beijing’s only government supported Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm delivers produce to your door once or twice a week (depending on your preference). Memberships range from RMB 2,000-4,000 for delivery, or RMB 1,4402,800 for pick-up orders. You can also farm your own small 30-meter plot for RMB 1,200 a year. West of Houshajian Village, Sujiatuo Zhen, Haidian District. (138 1095 6036, 186 0102 2820, littledonkeyfarm@163.com) www. littledonkeyfarm.com 海淀区海淀区苏家坨镇 后沙涧村西 Lohao City 1) Daily 8am-9pm. 608 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (8046 6242 ext 801); 2) Daily 8am-10pm. 52 Jingshun Lu (Near Sunhe Qiao), Shunyi District. (8459 0134); 3) Daily 8am-10pm. 103, Building 15, China Central Place, 6A Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 5181); 4) Daily 8am-10pm. Shop 101, Bldg 17, Central Park International, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6533 6465); 5) MonThu 8am-10pm, Fri-Sun 8am-11pm. Bldg 5, 10A, 76 Baiziwan Nan Er Lu, Chaoyang District. (8772 4133 ext 806/807); 6) Daily 8am-10pm. 1/F, 108 Dongwaigongguan, Xinzhongjie, Chaoyang District. (6415 0104); 7) Daily 9am-10pm. 4B Haoyun Jie, Chaoyang District. (5867 0270/0265); 8) Daily 10am9.30pm. 131-04B, Beichen Lifestyle Plaza, No.8 courtyard, Beichen Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8498 5950) www.lohaocity.com 乐活 城, 1) 顺义区天竺荣祥广场608号; 2) 顺义 区京顺路52号(靠近孙河桥); 3) 朝阳区西大 望路甲6号华贸公寓15号楼103号; 4) 朝阳区 朝外大街6号新城国际二期17号楼101; 5) 朝 阳区百子湾南二路76号5号楼10A; 6) 朝阳区 东直门外新中街东外公馆底商108; 7) 朝阳区 好运街乙4号; 8) 朝阳区北辰东路8号院北辰 生活广场131-04B Shangrila Botanicals Shangrila Farms produces items made in Yunnan, including organic coffee, honey, and some botanical beauty products. Proceeds help to support the Yunnan Mountain Heritage Foundation.

Daily 10am-10pm. 1/F, EC Mall, Bldg 1 (east entrance), 1 Danlingjie, Zhongguancun, Haidian District. (8454 9514, info@shangrilafarms. com) www.shangrilafarms.com 海淀区中关村 丹棱街1号欧美汇购物中心3层(地铁4号线和 10号线海淀黄庄站直达)

Services The Age of Innocence Photo Studio Haidian photography studio specializing in kids and families. Daily 10am-6pm. Bldg 1, 15 Shiyuyuan, Shijichengsan, Haidian District.

(8887 8477, 130 5108 3601) www.mycznd. com 纯真年代摄影工作室, 海淀区世纪城三 期，时雨园 1 号楼15号 BabyPioneer Baby Hands and Feet Casting Studio Open since November 2006, BabyPioneer Baby Hands and Feet Casting Studio is popular with new parents looking to create special keepsake gifts for their kids.

High-quality and non-toxic molding gel is

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used to collect 3-D impression molds of infant palms and soles; 100% hardwood frames and acid-free mat boards are provided to package the gifts. House calls available, or go to the studio for a 10% discount and a free Kindermusik preview. Prices range from RMB 558-1,600. Rm 1603, Bldg 1, Zhujiang Luoma Jiayuan, 107 Chaoyang Beilu, Chaoyang District. (139 1018 5735, babypioneer@vip.sina. com) 朝阳区朝阳北路107号院珠江罗马嘉园 1号楼1603室 BigDog’s Kids Party A professional company for kids’ party planning and organizing in Beijing, BigDog’s Kids Party provides party essentials such as party theme and game, balloon decoration, party supplies, performances and clowns. Balloons, invation cards, arts and crafts, goodie bags, and pinatas are also available in BigDog’s Party Shop. Tue-Sun 9am-6pm. 2/F 205, East Park International Apts, Tower 45, Fuangyuan Li, Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (400 8960 608, happy@bigdogparty.cn) www.bigdogparty.cn 朝阳区芳园西路芳园里45号楼丽东国际公寓 2层205室（美中宜和医院旁边） Crown Relocations Crown Relocations services include domestic and international transportation of household goods, home and school search, storage, expense management, policy consulting and program administration, online tracking tools, transit protection and intercultural services. We provide services for corporations, diplomats and private customers. Crown Relocations, a division of the Crown Worldwide Group, serves over 10,000 customers from over 200 locations in 50 countries. (5801 8088), www. crownrelo.com Face Painting by Nina Griffee Provides face painting services for children’s parties and events. Highest level of safety and hygiene is met and only water-based face paints are used. Up to 12 children per hour can be painted and all materials are provided by the artist. Parties RMB 200 per hour plus travel expenses. Face painting day workshops are also available for adults. Workshops run the whole day and includes hygiene and safety training, skin irritant testing, brush and sponge techniques, face paint design structure and color combination study. Workshops are RMB 225 per hour plus travel expenses.

(152 1001 7548, ninagriffee@hotmail.co.uk) www.ninagriffee.co.uk Global Photographic Studio Global Photographic Studios (China) Ltd, a joint venture company, offers superior quality photos at competitive prices, using best products, best staff, and best practices. Equipped with the world-class Kodak color laser printer, professional digital cameras nd leading edge software, special features can be incorporated into photographs to give a more intimate, personalized, and modern appeal. Because of the nature of Global’s superior management, equipment and processing capabilities, photographic support for special events can also be provided to government, embassies, corporations, associations, private clubs, families or individuals. 9am-6pm. 1/F, 7 Xinzhong Jie, Chaoyang District. (6718 2308, info@globalphoto.com.cn) http://www.globalphoto.com.cn 联合世纪数码影印有限公司, 朝 阳区朝阳区新中街7号1层 Imagine Photography Studio If your kids never come out as cute as they really are in the photos you shoot yourself, deliver them into the hands of the professionals at this Shunyi-based photography studio that focuses on capturing children on film. A range of albums, calendars, greeting cards and frames let you get creative with the final products.

Packages run from RMB 1,500-5,000; the Happy Together plan lets you gather your kid’s friends, siblings and classmates for a free session and a free 10-inch photo. 10am6pm. 14 Kaifajie, Xibaixinzhuang, Shunyi District. (8472 7478, info@imaginestudio. cn) www.imaginestudio.cn 顺义区西百辛庄 开发街14号

December 2010

Daily 10am-10pm. 5/F Pacific Century Place, A2 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6448 2105) 乐高, 1) 朝阳区朝阳公园路6号蓝色 港湾国际商区B1层; 2) 海淀区海淀区远大路 一号金源购物中心4100; 3) 朝阳区亮马桥路 52号燕莎购物中心; 4) 朝阳区建国门外大街 1号国贸商城NB134A; 5) 朝阳区工体北路甲 2号太平洋百货5楼

IQ Air While little can be done about outdoor air pollution, we can certainly have an impact on the air we breathe inside our homes and offices. IQAir has been providing air-cleaning solutions since 1963. Swiss precision and technology go into every unit, creating an excellent price-to-performance ratio. 1) Rm 2201-02, Air China Plaza, 36 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8447 5800, 400 650 1266, info@iqair-china.com); 2) 2LY1-05, Solana Lifestyle Shopping Center, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5905 6768, info@iqair-china.com); 3) 4/F, 417 Seasons Place, 2 Jinchengfang Jie, Xicheng District.

(6622 0179, info@iqair-china.com); 4) 4/F, Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6457 1922, info@iqair-china.com) www.iqair-china.com 1) 朝阳区霄云路36号国 航大厦2201-02室; 2) 朝阳区朝阳公园路6号 蓝色港湾购物中心2LY1-05; 3) 西城区金城坊 街金融街417号四层; 4) 顺义区天竺镇裕翔路 99号欧陆广场4层 Mishka Family Photography This husband and wife team speak Russian, English and Chinese. Offers professional portraits, actions shots, and specializes in photographing children. C3, Fuli City, Shuangjing Qiao, Chaoyang District. (5876 4088, 150 1089 9969, maxim@mishka.pro) www.mishka.pro 朝阳区朝阳区双井桥富力城C3 Mr. Magic A Mr. Magic Party includes one hour with a clown, magician or superhero and face painting, an interactive magic show, a treasure hunt, circle games, crazy dances and more (RMB 2,000, RMB 1,600 (kids), discount rates for schools and charities). Prize bags, balloon art and a DVD of the event are also available for additional charges. (139 1062 6059, parsons59@yahoo.com)

Toys Giant Bicycles Be sure to buy a sturdy lock if you purchase one of the bicycles on offer at Giant’s flagship store. Inside the cavernous shop is a wide range of mountain and racing bikes, components, accessories and frames including the TCR Team Alu series (RMB 12,800-21,000). Their Chinese-only website lists other branches in Beijing. Note that the store does not sell little bikes, so you can only shop here for your teenagers. 1) Daily 9am6.30pm. Rm 101, Bldg E, Guoheng Jiye Mansion, 7 Beitucheng Xilu, Chaoyang District.

(8227 5718); 2) Daily 9am-7.30pm. Shunyuan Jie, 12 Sanyuanli Nanxiaojie (just west of east third ring road, on the north side of the road), Chaoyang District. (8448 9271) www. giant-bicycle.com 捷安特自行车专卖店, 1) 朝阳区北土城西路7号国恒基业大厦E座101室; 2) 朝阳区顺源街三元里南小街12号,与东三环 北路路口西北侧 Lego Enthusiasts can buy classic sets of 30 to 1,000 pieces, while those with less imagination can purchase themed Lego sets, such as Star Wars, Harry Potter, Alpha Team and Jack Stone. 1) B/1 Solana, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District.; 2) 10am-10pm. Rm 4100, Jinyuan Shopping Mall, 1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District, Haidian District. (8886 4036); 3) Daily 9am-10pm.

Lufthansa Shopping Center, 52 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.; 4) Daily 9am-9pm.

NB134A, B1/F, China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.; 5)

Tot to Teen This clothing store also stocks a small selection of board games (RMB 45-70), art supplies, wands, butterfly wings and temporary tattoos (RMB 48). 1) Daily 9am-7pm.

703 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 4419, tot-to-teen@hotmail.com); 2) Daily 10am7pm. Stall 102, 30 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 9640, tot-to-teen@hotmail. com) 红马车儿童用品商店, 1) 顺义区天竺房 地产开发区荣祥广场703号; 2) 朝阳区三里屯 路30号102商店

Sports Directory Sports Beijing is a non-profit organization that provides sports and recreational activities to the children of Beijing. Modeled after the North American and European sports organizations, Sports Beijing offers more than 15 sports and recreations programs, including baseball, basketball, flag football, floor ball, gymnastics, ice hockey, martial arts, rugby, skiing, soccer, swimming, tennis, track and field/athletics. Available for young athletes (ages 4-18) and their families.

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Lido Country Club 2/F, Holiday Inn Lido Hotel, 6 Jiang Tai Lu, Chaoyang District (6430 1370) www.sportsbj.org

Basketball Dongdan PE Center You and the rest of the crew can rent indoor or outdoor, full- or halfcourts here. RMB 500/hr (full-court), RMB 300/hr (half-court), RMB 15/person (outdoor courts), RMB 10/person/hr (indoor courts). Daily 8am10pm. 108 Chongwenmennei Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6512 9377) 东单体育中心, 东城区崇文 门内大街108号 East Gate Plaza Fitness Center RMB 50 will get you an hour on a half-court and one basketball (to be returned!). Daily 8am-10pm.

B1/F, Bldg A, East Gate Plaza, 29 Dongzhong Jie, Dongcheng District. (6417 1188 ext 5070) 东环广 场健身中心, 东城区东中街29号东环广场A座B1

Bowling Gongti 100 When he’s in town, Andy Lau apparently bowls at Gongti 100, which is named for its number of lanes. The complex also has a plethora of video games that will be popular with the kids. Small-sized shoes are available for kids over 6. Bowling RMB 40/game/person, RMB 5 for shoe rental. Daily 9am-1am. 6 Gongti Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6552 2688) 工体100, 朝阳区 工体西路6号

Dance Ding’s RAD Ballet Studio Founded by Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) instructor, JinCheng Ding in 1997, Ding’s RAD Ballet Studio follows the original RAD Graded syllabus while still giving students the freedom to develop their individual style. This studio is one of the few places in Beijing where students can learn the original RAD syllabus, take the RAD graded examinations and awarded the RAD Certificate from the RAD headquarters UK. Classes available from age 4 to adult and range from beginner to advanced.

Instruction in Chinese and English. Fengtai Arts School-Dance studio, Dist 2, FangChengYuan, FangZhuang, Fengtai District. (151 1020 0236, balletdeluxe@gmail.com) 丰台区丰台方庄芳城园 2区丰台艺术学校舞蹈教室 J-Ballet School Formerly the Western Ballet School, J-Ballet offers instruction in Chinese, Japanese or English to children and adults.

Courses are divided into fall (Sept-Dec), spring (Feb-July) and summer (July-Aug) terms. Children’s lessons are in six levels (RMB 60-80 per class). Adult classes are RMB 80 each, with packages of 10 lessons for RMB 700 and 20 lessons

Directories

*listings in orange are new to Directories for RMB 1200. Students get 10% discount on adult classes. 1) Pulse Health Club, Kempinski Hotel, Lufthansa centre, 50 Liangmaqiao lu., Chaoyang District.; 2) 1/F, Bldg D, Jingxiu Yuan, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (8453 3003; 138 0103 6364 (Ms. Takeda); 138 0113 5877 (Ms. Tang)) www.j-ballet.com J-芭蕾教室, 2) 朝阳区幸福村中路景绣园D座一层西侧

Football (Soccer) ClubFootball This organization runs soccer coaching programs at 20+ locations in Beijing and Tianjin for boys and girls of all levels aged 4 to 18. Held after school, at weekends and during holidays, courses are designed and delivered in a fun environment by ClubFootball’s English FA-qualified coaching staff. A nine week course averages RMB 750 and includes kit, beverages, player profile, certificate and team photo. 9am6pm. Unit A212, Door 3, A1 Zone, Huadeng Building, 14 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.

(5130 6893/4/5/6, coaching@wanguoqunxing. com) www.clubfootball.com.cn 万国群星足球 俱乐部, 朝阳区酒仙桥路14号兆维华登大厦A1区 3门212室

Golf SGA Junior Golf Coaching Offers one-on-one golf coaching for children ages 5 and up, from SGA-qualified, Australian PGA-certified golf coaches. Lessons can be designed for children at beginner or intermediate levels. Instruction covers everything from the full grip and swing technique to golf etiquette and handicap calculation. Clubs are provided for the duration of a purchased package. RMB 7,500 (10 lessons), RMB 13,000 (20 lessons) (does not include ball and green fees). Coaching center is located at Chaoyang Kosaido Golf Club, Shangsilu Cun, Tuanjiehu Xiaoqu, Chaoyang District. (6507 7389, 400 650 5169) www.SGA-China.com 朝阳广济堂 高尔夫俱乐部, 朝阳区团结湖小区上四路村

Hiking Beijing Hikers Hikes of varying difficulty in villages near Beijing. Open to everyone. Call for info on hikes and what to bring. Prices vary for overnight hikes; weekend hikes are RMB 250/300 (adult), half price for children under 12, including round trip transport, snacks and drinks after the hike, detailed map of the hike and professional guidance. Advance reservations necessary. MonFri 9am-6pm. Rm 601, Bldg 2, Xinhualian Ligang, 26 Jiuxianqiao Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6432 2786, info@beijinghikers.com) www.beijinghikers.com 朝阳区酒仙桥中路26号新华联丽港2号 楼601室

(5905 6328) 全明星滑冰俱乐部, 朝阳区朝阳公园 路6号蓝色港湾国际商区首层 Champion Rink Due to its low patronage, it’s the best bet for a sparsely occupied rink. Offers basic private lessons for RMB 120 and up (RMB 600/five private 45-minute classes). Advanced classes RMB 60/90-minute lesson. Entry-level group lessons RMB 350/five 90-minute classes, but group sizes vary. Daily 10am-9.30pm. Golden Resources Mall, 1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District.

(8887 4899) 冠军溜冰场, 海淀区远大路1号金 源新燕莎 Le Cool Chills and spills for skaters and shoppers at this small indoor rink in the World Trade Center. Be warned that the rink can get seriously crowded with ice princesses on holidays and weekend afternoons. Weekdays: RMB 30 for 90 min (10am-6pm), RMB 40 for 90 min (6-10pm). Weekends: RMB 50 for 90 min. Skate rental included. Daily 10am-10pm. B2/F, China World Shopping Mall, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 5776, lecool@cwtc. com) www.lecoolicerink.com 国贸溜冰场, 朝阳区 建国门外大街1号国贸地下2层 New World Champion Skating Rink An excuse to go to Chongwen District. All fees include 90 mins of ice time and skate rentals. Weekdays: RMB 40 (10am-5pm), RMB 50 (5-9.30pm).

Weekends: RMB 50. Daily 10am-9.30pm. B1/F, New World Shopping Mall, Chongwen District.

(8887 4899) 新世界冠军溜冰场, 崇文区新世界 商场地下1层 The Ice Zone Small ice rink in the center of Shunyi offers skating classes for beginners and intermediates, private lessons, 3-on-3 ice hockey programs, and beginners hockey for adults and children. Unlimited time on the ice is RMB 50 (weekends) and RMB 30 (weekdays) and includes skate rental. Daily noon-4pm. River Garden Clubhouse, 2/F (access from Yuyang Lu), 7 Yuyang Lu, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 6092, info@icezonechina.com) www.icezonechina.com 冰点地带, 顺义区裕京花园会所2楼(入口 在裕京路)北京顺义榆阳路7 号

mer for water skiing, grass skiing and paragliding. Entrance RMB 20. RMB 100/2 hrs (Mon-Fri) RMB 150/2 hrs (Sat-Sun), RMB 140/4 hrs (MonFri) RMB 200/4 hrs (Sat-Sun), RMB 220/ full day (Mon-Fri) RMB 360/full day (Sat-Sun). Sledding is RMB 50/30 mins. Lodging available (RMB 320360). Daily 8.30am-5.30pm. Shengshuitou Cun, Henanzhai Town, Miyun County. (8909 1909) www.nanshanski.com 北京南山滑雪滑水度假村有 限公司, 密云县河南寨镇圣水头村 Qiaobo Ice and Snow World The first and only indoor ski resort in Beijing, Qiaobo has a 150m bunny slope and a 260m long slope. Great place to cool off from the summer heat. Experienced skiers should keep their expectations low.

Kids 3 and up only. Rates for Qiaobo Ice and Snow World2 hours, weekdays: RMB 180 per person (entry and ski or snowboard hire)2 hours, weekends: RMB 230 (entry and ski or snowboard hire)4 hours and over, weekdays: RMB 240 (entry and ski or snowboard hire)4 hours and over, weekends: RMB 330 (entry and ski or snowboard hire)Ski suit hire: RMB 30 (jacket and trousers)Locker hire: RMB 10 Daily 9am-10pm.

Inside Chaobai River National Forest Park, Mapo, Shunyi District. (8497 2568) www.qbski.com 乔 波冰雪世界, 顺义区马坡潮白河国家森林公园内6号

Tennis 6th Sense Tennis Academy International tennis camp franchise offers lessons for adults and kids in a facility that includes the Potters-Wheel center, a swimming pool, fitness room, numerous courts and more. 1 Langxinzhuang Lu, Chaoyang District. (8538 1073/3269, china@6sensetennis. com) http://www.6thsenseacademy.com/academy/china1 朝阳区郎辛庄路1号 GS Tennis All foreign coaches are internationally accredited and are players themselves. Students of all ages are welcome and indoor facilities are available. 1) Golden Luck Age Tennis Center, 2 Dongwei Xilu, Chaoyang District. (8478 6866, info@gs-academy.com); 2) 1 Xiedao Road, Chaoyang District., Chaoyang District. (010 8433 5608, info@gs-academy.com) www.gs-academy.

Sports

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Yoga Alona Pilates Studio Specializing in both Mat Pilates and Reformers Pilates classes with experienced and talented English speaking instructors.

Reformers and other Pilates equipment are available for private and semi-private instruction sessions in Westin Studio. 7.30am – 9.30pm.

F/5, Heavenly Spa, 1 Xinyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (139 1029 0260, voselena@hotmail. com) www.alonastudiobeijing.com 朝阳区新源 南路一号5层 Fine Yoga Daily 7am-9pm. Kids’ yoga on Sundays 2-3pm. Rm 501, 5/F, Bldg A, Soho New Town, 88 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (8589 6474, 5900 3192, 139 1176 7521) www.fineyoga.com 梵音瑜珈, 朝阳区建国路88号Soho现代 城A座501室 Incy Wincy Yoga Founded in 2006 by two mothers looking for activities for their kids, Incy Wincy Yoga has ten fully trained caring instructors providing preschool activities in Beijing (Yoga from baby to 12 years old). 1) River Gardens Clubhouse, Shunyi District. (5952 7001, info@incywincyyoga.com); 2) Rm 1606, Zhujiang DijingXi Dawang Lu, Chaoyang District. (5952 7001, info@incywincyyoga.com) http://www. incywincyyoga.com 2) 朝阳区朝阳区西大望路珠 江地精1606室 Yoga Yard Yard Vinyasa (flow) yoga classes offered daily, mornings and evenings, at various levels. offers pre- and postnatal yoga, introduction to yoga, restorative yoga, and other workshops. Yoga books, mats and wellness products also available. Kids yoga for ages 4 and above.

RMB 400 for a four-week session. Mon-Thu 7.15am-9.30pm, Fri-Sun 7.15am-8pm. Mon-Thu 7.15am-9.30pm, Fri-Sun 7.15am-8pm. 6/F, Bldg 17 Gongti Beilu (across from the north gate of Workers’ Stadium), Chaoyang District. (6413 0774, info@yogayard.com) www.yogayard.com 瑜珈苑, 朝阳区工体北路17号楼6层工人体育场 北门对面

Martial Arts

China Culture Center The hyperactive stepchild of the Chinese Culture Club, the Amblers head out almost every weekend, usually to locations with historical or cultural significance in addition to their natural beauty. RMB 150-400 for day trips, more for overnight excursions.

20% discount for kids. Online registration usually required. Kent Center, Anjialou, Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6432 9341) www.chinaculturecenter.org 朝阳区亮马桥路安家楼肯特中心

Beijing Black Tiger @ Club Hero Black Tiger Kids Jiu-Jitsu and Karate is a martial art offered at Black Tiger @ Club Hero, located in the Cable 8 park Guo Mao area. We provide a large, safe and professional environment equipped with a 400 square meter training floor and a 100 square meter jiu-jitsu room.Learn martial arts skills and self-discipline in a fun and safe environment.

Black Belt instructors in Beijing’s best martial arts academy. Classes are offered Lil’ Tiger, Junior and Teen programs age-specific of 5yr -14 above. Lil’ Tiger program: RMB150/hr, Junior program: RMB100/hr,Teen program: RMB100/hr (Minimum 20 hr). Mon-Fri 8am-9.30pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun noon-6pm. Club Hero,Suite 110, Bldg D, Cable 8, 8 Langjiayuan, Jianguo Lu (West of Wanda Plaza), Chaoyang District.

(8706 1940, 8656 7818, 8918 3249, 6581 5570, info@blacktigerclub.com, chet@graciechina.com) www.clubhero.cn 朝阳区建国路郎家园8号尚8创意 产业园D座110英雄馆万达广场西侧

Ice Skating

Skiing & Snowboarding

All Star Champion Skating Club Lace up your skates and do a Kim Yu-Na of South Korea (Kim’s the current world champion in ladies figure skating, couch potatoes). - All Star Ice Rink was founded by Wang Rui, figure skating gold medalist in the 1999 Asian Winter Games, and Li Ning, the legendary gymnast who lit the torch during the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony. Located on the first floor of Solana mall, the ice rink covers 800 square meters and uses equipment that meets international standards, creating a rink fit for both entertainment and professional competition. For adolescents new to the sport, All-Star offers classes.

Especially precocious athletes can request coaches from the Chinese national skating team.

Private lessons (Chinese only) are priced at RMB 135-300/90min. RMB 30, 50 for admission. Daily 10am-10pm. 1/F, Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu., Chaoyang District.

Badaling Ski Resort Badaling has two 800m long ski runs and a 2,300m snowmobile run.

It also has sledding runs and a ski lodge with accommodation, food and drinks, stores and a gym. Any kid over 3 is welcome to take a shot at the slopes! RMB 220 (weekdays), RMB 260 (weekends). Daily 8.30am-6.30pm. Badaling Town, Yanqing County. (6501 0335, 136 9915 8647) 八达岭滑雪场, 延庆县八达岭镇 Nanshan Ski Village One of the area’s top ski resorts, Nanshan has ten well-groomed trails for skiers of all levels and a snowboard park (Nanshan Mellow Park) with a halfpipe, four kickers and six rails - all served by a quadruple chairlift, a double chairlift and nine T-bars. Nanshan has many ski and snowboard instructors - some trained by the Austria Snowboard Association - and it is also home to snowboarding camps organized by the Icon X store, which uses only Burton gear. Visit this all-season facility in sum-

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The Circuit The Circuit is a chance to sneak a peek at what’s happening on the family and school scene. Want to see your event on these pages? Send an e-mail with the date of your past event and a brief description to kara.chin@beijing-kids.com by December 13.

beijingkids Halloween Costume Brunch Ball On October 30, parents and children donned their best Halloween garb for pumpkin carving, face painting by Beijing Color Studio, candy apples by A Food Affaire, gummies from Bonbon Bins and family portraits by Baby Park. After indulging in a full buffet brunch by Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, families went trick-or-treating and participated in a Halloween parade. Sponsored by Chartis, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, Baby Park, Beijing Color Studio, A Food Affaire, Bonbon Bins and Nestle.

PHOTOS: JUDY ZHOU

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International Day at British School of Beijing At BSB’s International Day, students learned about 30 different nationalities through performances, food and national dress.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF BSB AND YCIS

YCIS Beijing Primary ASA Program Beginning in October, YCIS Beijing has a Primary After School Activities (ASA) program. There are over 20 clubs ranging from sports and music to arts and crafts.

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The Circuit MSB Cross Country Races On October 22, MSB elementary students participated in cross-country races.

October at Dulwich On October 27, Dulwich Senior School held their annual fancy dress cross-country. From October 19-22, award-winning a illustrator and author Korky Paul held workshops and book signings. On October 29, Dulwich Early Years held a Spider and Pumpkin Day with activities and a special performance.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF MSB AND DULWICH

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Halloween at Beanstalk BIBS held a Halloween party at its primary, kindergarten and middle school campuses.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF BIBS AND BEIJING COLOR STUDIO

Halloween at Beijing Color Studio On October 31, Beijing Color Studio celebrated their first Halloween by hosting a kids’ painting party at their studio location. Kids also enjoyed having their faces painted by Sam.

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The Circuit Halloween at 3e International 3e celebrated Halloween with its annual school parade.

IAB International Family Day At IAB’s annual International Family Day, participants were exposed to the cultures of the world.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF 3E AND IAB

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The Circuit Halloween at CISB On October 28-29, CISB students celebrated Halloween. Older students held a haunted house while younger students held performances.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF O’LE AND CISB

O’le Junior Soccer Championship Games On October 30, O’le held junior soccer championship games with 28 teams, including O’le junior teams, Sports Beijing, France School, Li Cheng, Golden Cradle, Bokai, and Yin Chao.

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The Circuit Jedi Jugglers at ISB After hours of practice, the ISB Jedi Jugglers put on a spectacular show on October 22.

Neighborhood Chinese Language Center Visits CCTV On November 6 and 7, Chinese Neighbor students attended the CCTV1 program “My Brand, Our World.”

PHOTOS: COURTESY HARROWNEIGHBOR AND DULWICH PHOTOS: COURTESY OFOFCHINESE AND ISB

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Vivaldi Violin Class at My Little Mozart My Little Mozart in Shunyi opened a new violin class at Lane Bridge.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF TSINGHUA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL AND MY LITTLE MOZART

First Beijing College Fair On November 7, Tsinghua International School held its ďŹ rst annual Beijing International College Fair at Tsinghua University. The fair showcased 21 top universities from the US and the UK, including all eight Ivy League schools.

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Family Favorites

The Fu Family

Family Rituals We like outdoor sports. Right now, the kids like playing tennis. Lei plays squash at Golf Palace Apartments (高尔夫公寓), which is near Chaoyang West Gate. Skiing during the winter is a hit.

Best Place to Play Chaoyang Park or a museum.

photo by Mishka Family Photography Singaporean Kristin Koh is the brains behind My Little Mozart Studio while her husband American Lei Fu works for Microsoft Corporation. With their son Jason (9) and daughter Jillian (5), they moved from California to China and have been living in Beijing for the past three years. This active family shared their favorite haunts for family-friendly sports, eats and shopping. Kara Chin Would you like to share your Beijing Favorites? E-mail editor@beijing-kids.com.

Favorite Shopping Spot Dongsishi area. Kristin loves browsing all the shops along Nanluogu Xiang for clothes. For children’s clothes, she opts for the Zoo Market (Dongwuyuan Wholesale Market).

Favorite Dessert Banana splits at Element Fresh and bubble tea.

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Kids Beg to Go Ice skating at All Star Champion Skating Club in Solana, fishing in Miyun and rollerblading.

Snow Day If possible, we go skiing at Nanshan Ski Village. If not, we stay at home or go to a mall; our favorite is Solana.

Favorite Family Restaurant in Beijing The children love Annie’s. Kristin likes the brunches at Westin Chaoyang and Hilton Beijing Wangfujing.

New Discoveries in Beijing For toys, we like Bairong Mall (百荣国际小商品城), near Muxiyuan. The 2/F, 4/F and 7/F are dedicated to toys. We also like the eateries hidden among the hutongs; they’re charming and the food is scrumptious.

The Perfect Day Trip Whenever possible we like to drive out to Miyun County. The sights and sounds are excellent sources of inspiration when Kristin is designing her curriculum.