How to Kill a Summer Afternoon in Beijing

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Summer has announced its arrival in Beijing with humid air and blistering heat. The last activity one wishes to do is physically move around. Afternoons continue to be the hardest, especially when the sun culminates and vertical solar rays warm the atmosphere. Most people have no idea how to pass an afternoon in Beijing, so here is an assortment of activities for you to have a shot at.

Reading a novel

Why not start a new book? Situate yourself on the grass with a cool iced drink and a good story to enjoy your afternoon. Perhaps you’ll be immersed in another kingdom or experiencing a great romance. Anything is possible. You can also invite your friends over and enjoy a quiet reading afternoon together.

Trying a new recipe

Sometimes, you might just feel like spending time inside with the wonderful air-con. However, perhaps instead of succumbing to the summer lethargy, you can sharpen your mind and cooking skills by attempting a new recipe. By the time twilight rolls by, not only will you have a delectable dish ready, but the afternoon will also be well spent.

A romantic picnic at the park

When life gives you lemons, make delicious lemonade. And then grab a French baguette from a nearby bakery, some salami and cheese, and your aesthetic champagne glasses for a lovely picnic. You can invite your friends and loved ones, or enjoy an amazing time alone. Although casual picnics are wonderful, there is just something special about an elegant picnic. Beijing has some beautiful picnic spots just at your fingertips. Some of my personal favorites are Liangmahe River and Chaoyang Park.

A slow biking adventure

Exercising doesn’t have to be hard! Biking slowly around downtown is faster than walking and is also a way to exercise. Beijing is a perfect biking city thanks to an even terrain and not a lot of hills. You may find yourself immeasurably lost in the old hutongs, savoring a scenic tour around Beihai Lake, or seeking forgotten alleys in your contiguity.

Afternoons are an ideal time to complete things and spend time with yourself or someone else. Picnics, reading, bike rides and baking are all fantastic solutions to the summertime drowsiness. Arm yourself with an unlimited amount of lemonade and some good music albums, and you should be good to go!

Images: Unsplash

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