So, here is the thing. If you know me, then you know that I am a Disney enthusiast. In fact, my first job was working as a food vendor at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, CA. I loved working there because it never felt like work. I’ve been a fan of Disney’s catalogue of movies since I was a child. The Lion King and Toy Story were my first memories seeing them in theaters, and since then I have pretty much watched every Disney theatrical release. So, when doing my research on Shanghai, I found out that Disneyland had opened a location in Shanghai, China. I knew then, that if I was heading to Shanghai, I couldn’t possibly miss my opportunity to visit the newly built Shanghai Disneyland Resort. I made sure to dedicate one whole day for this adventure as it was a bit out of the way from my hotel. The most affordable way to get to Shanghai Disneyland from the bund is by taking the Maglev. At just around $1-2 dollars and 1 hour of your time. You can get to the park no problem. This was my form of transportation; easy, affordable, and smooth ride there. I bought my ticket in advance on Shanghai Disney’s website. To prevent any disruptions to my plans. UPDATE: DUE TO COVID-19 THE PARK IS CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.

At the moment of writing this post the operation of Shanghai Disneyland Resort is closed until further notice. But since I’m posting a blog about it. I want to share my personal experience of this magical place. Right off the bat, it was very different yet very familiar. It looks like Disneyland, it feels like Disneyland. But it was massively different in a unique and special way. This land felt much larger than it’s predecessor and the attractions more modern than those of the rides back home. Roaring Rapids, the Many Adventure’s of Winnie the Pooh, Seven Dwarf’s Mine Train, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, and Buzz Lightyear’s Planet Rescue were fantastic rides. But my favorite two attractions were Tron Light Power Run, and Pirate’s of the Caribbean: Battle for Sunken Treasure. These two alone are a reason to visit Shanghai Disneyland. Pirates of the Caribbean was so out of this world, that I literally jumped back on the boat 3x back to back to enjoy the experience again and again. I’ve never experienced a rollercoaster that was so high tech before. Truly a masterpiece of a ride, and I hope one day Disneyland Resort of Anaheim gets a face lift of it’s own. Chances are it won’t since I believe it was the last ride Walt Disney himself helped develop. One other noteworthy experience were the Gardens of Imagination, Marvel Universe, Shipwreck Shore, Alice in Wonderland Maze, and Camp Discovery. They were all interactive attractions with some like Camp Discover actually requiring challenging trials and gorgeous sceneries. I filmed a lot of my time in Shanghai Disneyland, and hope to put together a vlog about my experience on my YouTube channel. One very amusing thing to me was just how new the idea was to the locals. When asking for famous characters like Ariel, Donald, and even Mickey himself. Some of the employees had no clue what I was referring to. But I understand since the park itself opened up just a few months prior. I’m sure it’s as popular now as any Disneyland around the world. Side note: I plan on visiting every Disneyland around the world. It’s a part of my bucket list.

BEIJING

China’s historical capitol. This city has a history that stretches back 3 millennia’s. Much like it’s sister province Shanghai. Beijing is a more complex city as it’s the home of the Imperial Palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Being further up North, this province is much colder. Especially during the Fall/Winter season. Which I so happen to have gone during. But I came equipped for the occasion. Might I suggest you bring thermal undergarments, along with many long sleeves, sweaters, coats, and beanie’s for this part of the country. I can take the Maglev from Shanghai to Beijing. But seeing as I chose to go for 14 days, it made more sense to take the plane, as the price for the flight would have been the same as the Maglev overnight ride. It’s really your preference how you choose to arrive. Both options are great in my opinion. I chose this time around to stay at a hostel in Beijing. It was first time staying at a hostel. So, I was both excited and nervous as I was not sure what to expect. But 365 Inn – Hostel located on No. 55 Dazhalan Xijie St. Best part of this hostel was the location. About a little over a mile to reach all points of interest. The hostel was a bit rural but very welcoming. As for a first time experience it was great. The staff were kind and very helpful with requests and questions. They made me feel at home. After my initial visit, I decided then and there that I would no longer stay at hotels willingly. The hostel life is a better experience if you are looking for growth, new friends, and exciting adventures. All of which basically come in a package when you stay at hostels. Let’s not forget. Staying at hostels is the most affordable way of traveling. Once you stay in a hostel, chances are you’ll feel the same way.

As for landmarks to visit. There is plenty to see. The question to ask yourself is; how much time can you commit to each one? As there is so much to do, and in my case, so little time. Looking back now I wish I had spent a few extra days in Beijing. A few points of interests to consider are Qianmen St., National Museum of China, and the Summer Palace. I unfortunately, did not have enough time to visit these places due to a short traveling window, and time of the season. But I did however, get to visit historical sites, such as, the Temple of Heaven. Located in the South Eastern part of Central Beijing. This beautiful imperial complex building is known for it’s symbolic layout, distinctive structure, and impressive decoration. A location in which the Emperors would visit to worship the Gods and pray for good harvests. It is surrounded by a massive park that most notably resembles that of Central Park in New York. As breathtaking as the temple is to be around. I suggest spending a few hours roaming the park that surrounds the temple. There are plenty of tourists attraction to see, and noteworthy locations for photography. But for me, walking down Changlang and seeing all the locals playing chess, along with other forms of board games was a sight to see. The people of this city seem so peaceful and happy here. Don’t forget to wonder around the many infinite blocks of trees near Beitianmen. The trees here are a site to see.

On a separate day, walk up north from the hostel or take the maglev if you prefer. Which ever suits your experience best. I did both. You can take the Maglev straight to Zhengyangmen and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. You can explore this area rather quickly. So, take your time. Further up this location you’ll find yourself at the historical Tiananmen Square. It is a very wide city square in the heart of the city. Near the famous Tiananmen Gate also known as the Gate of Heavenly Place. A national emblem of China. Getting around this part of city is complicated at first, as the city is heavily protected with police, camera’s, and secret service. As the Forbidden City lays just across the street. You can’t walk straight across, instead, you’ll have to wonder around and get lost like I did until you somehow magically end up on the side of the street you are looking for. It gets easier from there. Just know it’s not a straight shot to the Forbidden City. Once you arrive, you can purchase a ticket into the historical attraction. The price of entrance can run you about 40¥, which is about $6 US. The Forbidden City is the largest imperial palace. The home of over 24 emperors. Most notably that of the Ming and Qing dynasty. Surprisingly, there are not trees to be seen in the entire city. It’s by design to keep birds out, which preserves the beauty of the architecture. It is considered by many to be a divine place. The city is incredibly large in scoop, and filled with historical statues, paintings, and spare rooms. With large red walls that reach as high as the skies, and the architecture-axial symmetry; this palace represents the supreme power of the emperors, which were bestowed upon by Heaven, and is a polarizing look into the past.

When you’re done with sightseeing, and have spare time for shopping. I recommend taking a stroll to the Oriental Plaza. Another futuristic building in the heart of old China. Here you will find many great food vendors in the food court at great prices! But the high end corporations contain expensive products. I just like to window shop while remaining warm during the cold winter season. A bit large of a place but plenty of things to do here. Once you complete your first go around or two. You can head back out towards Waingfujing Night Market for exotic meats. This was the first time ever seeing deep fried beetles, scorpions, churanchula, and crickets on a stick… Yum! This street is just a few long blocks, and typically opens up when the Sun goes down. This night market becomes the busiest street in the town when you’re looking for a snack. Open from 6:00pm to 9:00pm every day, this place is home to over 100 stalls, so you have plenty options to choose from. Try the scorpion, it taste like chicken!

Of course there’s one thing you must try if you’ve never had it before, and that is Peking Duck. In most countries, this delicacy is top tier on menus. Which typically means, you are going to spend top dollar for it. But not in Beijing. Although it’s still considered a delicacy to locals, the price is way much more affordable. I don’t recall the actual name of the restaurant I was lucky to stumble upon. But it was very near to the 365 Inn hostel down Tieshuxie St. You’ll see it, it’s very hard to miss. I treated myself to a fine dining experience one night, and I got a whole roasted Peking Duck, with Saki, and Tsing Tao beers. A bit of an indulgence for food, I have. Why I said it like Yoda, I have no idea. The Peking Duck is a bit salty and a very tough chew compared to chicken. But toss a little bit of sweet and spicy sauce in there, and there’s a magical party in your mouth! Needless to say, I felt important during this dinner as the waiters and cooks treated me like family.

You don’t fly halfway across the world to one of the largest and most prosperous countries in the world, and not visit one of the world’s greatest wonders of the world! The Great Wall of China to be precise. I was just asked today by my nephew why I chose to visit China for my first time backpacking, and it was hard to come down to one factor at the time. But having some time to think that question over. The answer was simple. Since I was a young child, I was always a bit curious of the Great Wall. It amazed me to know that humans can go to great lengths to building structures far beyond the capacity of human potential, and it always inspired me in one way or another. As a kid, I remember always been drawn to Asia. There’s just something I can’t really pinpoint about it. But it’s speaks to me in ways that my own background doesn’t. Maybe it’s my upbringing in a rooted Chicano background, or maybe it’s the curiosity I have of other’s cultures. What ever it is, it’s certainly captivating. Not to say that I am not interested in my culture. In fact, taking this trip had opened me up to learning more about my ancestors. There’s plenty of similarities in our differences. But both are equally as important and inspiring. The Great Wall of China, was the main factor in determining my final decision on picking out my destination. I figured if I was going on a one way ticket, I sure as hell better make it the greatest adventure I’ve ever had.

So Eddie, you ask, how did you get to the Great Wall? Great question, as mentioned above, I was lucky that my hostel had a travel guide package available on arrival. I don’t recall the total cost of the trip since I don’t have records to look it up. This makes it difficult to recollect the cost. But I can say that it was fairly affordable, but also one of the most expensive attractions in my over all journey. But worth more then what I paid for. The package included a group tour guide, and transportation both there and back, and also a fancy dinner at a local mom and pop restaurant, plus walk through a farmer’s market in a local town near the bottom of the trail which is where I picked up my farmer’s hat. Also known as a dǒu lì or conical hat. A traditional hat worn by farmer’s of Southern East Asia to keep there heads cool in the summer, and dry in the rainy season. I still have the hat hanging in my closet as a reminder of my beginnings and journey in life. It brings me so much joy just talking or thinking about it. When considering the trip up the Great Wall, just remember it is a massive wall that spans over 6,000 kilometer’s across the vast parts of China.  For any Americans reading this; that is over 3,728 miles long. Mutianyu is the most recognized part of the Great Wall, and it has been best-restored to it’s natural state. This is the section I chose to hike, and I highly suggest you do the same.

Upon arrival, you have a few options. The first is hike to the Great Wall, which means spending the entire afternoon hiking the vast mountain to reach the Great Wall, I mean after all, it is built on the tips of the mountain. Take a bus or rent a car and drive the curvy and dangerous roads (not recommended during Winter season,) or the best option in my opinion is taking a cable car to the top of the mountain. I find this one to be the most adventurous, most cost and time efficient of the options available. It was the best option as we were time constrained due to the possible snow storm that had been heading towards our direction. The cable car ticket cost around 140¥ round trip, and takes about 30-minutes to get to the top of mountain.

The exploring begins once you arrive at the top of the mountain. Be prepared for a casual but scenic hike while you’re up there. The Mutianyu Great Wall is the longest part of the Great Wall, and fully-restored. It’s also usually the less crowded with plenty watch towers to explore. I highly suggest you take the entire day to explore this place, and consider taking a private tour rather than a group tour as I did. As fun as it was to explore with others staying at my hostel. It was very limiting in time. If I recall, I spent a total of 2-3 hours on the mountain. I’m sure I mentioned this earlier, but the dinner we had after the hike was very much incredible, and remains my number two favorite meal of the trip. This impressive architect has been standing for over 1,400 years. I enjoyed every moment of this hike, and since has remained my peak hiking experience (pun intended.)