Beijing is a dynamic city that blends rich history with modern development, offering a unique experience for first-time visitors. To make the most of your trip, it’s helpful to learn some basic Mandarin phrases like "hello" (你好 - Nǐ hǎo) and "thank you" (谢谢 - Xièxiè), as this will assist in communication with locals. The city's public transportation system, especially the Beijing Subway, is efficient and affordable, though taxis may have language barriers, so it's good to have your destination written in Chinese. Be prepared for occasional air pollution, especially in winter, and consider wearing a mask on days with poor air quality. While mobile payment platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, it’s still important to carry cash for small purchases. Key attractions like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the Summer Palace are must-see landmarks. Make sure to try local food such as Peking Duck, dumplings, and Jianbing. Stay connected with a local SIM card and use a VPN for accessing blocked websites. Lastly, respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites, and dress modestly.

I could not get a refund of my transportation card, IC card at the T3 terminal at beijing airport. The card showed incomplete information. I would suggest getting a refund at other bus stations. I didn't investigate any further because i had to catch my return flight