Mark Fletcher – Practical China Travel Tips & Guides

Embark on a culinary adventure through China’s vibrant street food scene! From savory jianbing (crepes) and fiery malatang (hot pot skewers) to sweet tanghulu (candied fruit), discover a world of unique flavors and textures. Explore regional specialties like Xi’an’s rou jia mo (meat sandwich) and Shanghai’s soup dumplings, each dish reflecting China’s rich cultural heritage....Read More

A Culinary Journey: Must-Visit Chinese Restaurants in Beijing

Craving an authentic culinary adventure? Beijing’s vibrant food scene awaits! From iconic Peking duck at Quanjude to the rustic charm of Li Qun, explore diverse flavors and dining experiences. Discover hidden gems in the hutongs, savor spicy Sichuan cuisine, and warm up with a traditional copper hotpot. Use the Dianping app to uncover local favorites...Read More

A Guide to Classics: Chinese Crispy Beef and Other Recipes

Craving that perfect takeout crunch? Discover the secrets of Chinese Crispy Beef, a delightful dish boasting a symphony of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Learn how to achieve restaurant-quality crispiness at home with simple ingredients like sirloin, cornflour, and a special sauce. Explore various cooking methods, from deep-frying to stir-frying, and alternative ingredients for gluten-free...Read More

Plant-Based Feasts: Delicious and Authentic Vegan Chinese Recipes

Discover the vibrant world of vegan Chinese cuisine! Explore flavorful dishes packed with fresh vegetables, tofu, and plant-based proteins like wheat gluten. From savory Mapo Tofu and Kung Pao Cauliflower to comforting Millet Congee and festive Vegan Mooncakes, this culinary journey offers a delicious and healthy experience. Learn how to enhance flavors with traditional seasonings,...Read More

Greetings and Connecting with Local: How to Say ‘How Are You’ in Chinese

Want to connect authentically with Chinese speakers? Learning to say “How are you?” is more than just polite—it’s key to building rapport and showing respect. This simple phrase opens doors to deeper connections and enriching cultural experiences. Discover the various ways to ask “How are you?” in Mandarin, from formal greetings like “nǐ hǎo ma?”...Read More

Culture

Discovering the Best Chinese Snacks for Every Craving

Embark on a culinary adventure through the diverse world of Chinese snacks! From spicy latiao and savory duck neck to sweet haw flakes and crunchy sachima, discover a delicious array of flavors and textures rooted in Chinese history and culture. Whether you crave a fiery kick, a sweet indulgence, or a healthy bite, explore these...Read More

A Culinary Adventure: Exploring the World of Chinese Snacks

Embark on a culinary adventure through the diverse world of Chinese snacks! From savory dumplings enjoyed during festivals to sweet pastries savored in daily life, these treats offer a delicious glimpse into China’s rich history and vibrant culture. Discover the imperial influences on modern street food, explore the unique regional flavors from Sichuan’s fiery cuisine...Read More

From Pantry to Plate: Authentic Chinese BBQ Noodles at Home

Craving a symphony of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors? Discover Char Siu Noodles, featuring tender BBQ pork nestled among thick egg noodles, crisp greens, and delicate omelet slices. This dish offers a delightful interplay of textures, from the tender char siu to the satisfying chew of the noodles. Learn how to achieve “wok hei,” that...Read More

Travel to China: Requirements for First-Time Visitors

Planning your first trip to China? A valid visa is essential for most travelers, including Americans. This guide covers key visa types like tourist, business, student, and work visas, plus the streamlined application process. Discover visa-free options for shorter stays and transit, available for specific nationalities and cities. Learn vital travel document requirements, health and...Read More

Travel

China Travel Restrictions: Keep Up with Changing Travel Policies