City Guide: Qingdao
You’ve likely heard of the Chinese city of Qingdao before. That’s where the famed Tsingtao Beer is brewed. Every August, Qingdao hosts its annual beer festival which is an epic beer-drinking event that no beer drinker should pass up. But visiting Qingdao at other times of the year is surely recommended. Here’s a quick overview of Qingdao.
It’s beautiful
Tell a Chinese person you’re going to visit Qingdao and you’ll get the same gushing response every single time. “Oh it’s beautiful there!” Indeed, Qingdao is a very beautiful city by the sea. There are miles and miles of coastline to stroll upon, with mountains dipping off into the sea.
Fresh seafood is a must
If you like seafood, Qingdao is a great place to sample things like clams and crab. It’s fresh and fantastic.
It just got a subway
For years, the only subway Qingdao had was the restaurant chain that makes so-so sandwiches. But now, Qingdao has an open subway system. Parts of it are still under construction, however the opening of the subway has been a very welcome asset to the city.
There are lots of parks
Qingdao is filled with parks, from Zhongshan Park with amusement rides, cotton candy vendors, and a half-baked zoo, to botanical gardens and the famed Sculpture Park by the seaside. The air quality in Qingdao is much better than other Chinese cities too so getting outdoors in the warmer months is something you see the locals doing a lot of.
The beer
Tsingtao Beer needs its own section. It’s brewed here, and even if you don’t visit during the beer festival, come in the warmer months and enjoy the Beer Street area, filled with outdoor dining and plenty of beer. The Qingdao Beer Museum is something you must visit when you’re in town, whether you’re staying on as an expat or merely passing through. Plus, you get a free sample of fresh-brewed beer. Who could say no to that?
It’s safe
For a big city, it’s remarkably safe to be in Qingdao. Walking around alone isn’t a big deal, though if you’re looking for a fun night out, make sure you live in the downtown area. Everything else tends to close early, but downtown offers bars, restaurants and clubs that will give you cause to celebrate.
It’s kid-friendly
More and more families are choosing Qingdao because it is a remarkably kid-friendly place with plenty of activities to amuse. There are aquariums, museums, parks, beaches, and play places making it a good place to raise a family.