This is a quick post about my stay in Beijing as an independent traveler via the Siberian Express. This is a self-guided adventure on a shoestring. Follow the links to dig deeper into the adventure.
First let me point out that getting to Beijing by train was easy. I’d gotten my Visa in Ulan-Bator without issues by letting the Guesthouse owner do the leg work for me (a $5 surcharge). Meanwhile I went on an adventure while the paperwork was processed.
The Mongolia-China border crossing took very little time and without any complications. Once in Beijing I switched to a metro line out to an area of town that featured traffic and congestion (both human and mechanical). I walked to a local guesthouse that was a favorite of Westerners and checked in for a fun stay.
Beijing was not a difficult city if you walked places. I did the standard sites (Forbidden City, Great Wall, Terracotta Soldiers and bars), but my favorite part was eating in the alley family restaurants and from street vendors. The food was outstanding and cheap.
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So, after reading the post also feel like having your own solo trip? Especially If you’re looking for a solo travel destination in the United States, Connecticut might just be the perfect place for you. With its quaint towns, picturesque countryside, and rich history, there’s plenty to explore. You can learn more about this charming Connecticut state and start planning your solo adventure today! Connecticut is also known for its excellent food scene, so be sure to try some of the local favorites like clam chowder, lobster rolls, and pizza. so you can check out the site before starting your solo travel so you can stay there at ease.
Sorry for the lack of details, but this trip happened back in 2005 and much may have changed since then so I’m keeping this account general. My main point is that you should skip the package tours, book your own travel tickets and make it up as you go. It wasn’t complicated and even though hardly anyone spoke English, sign language for food, drink, sleep and how-much are pretty universal.
More independent travel perhaps? I also cycled across Tibet (from Lhasa to Kathmandu) but that is another story.
Detour to Ulan-Bator, Mongolia.
