The Great Wall

When we talk of the Great Wall we are usually talking either about the whole of the original wall, or the refurbished parts of the wall that tourists and world leaders want to visit. The Great Wall at Badaling is the major tourist destination and is quite a distance from the center of Beijing, which means it will take some time to get there.

There are tours that run from your hotel or nearby that will take you to the Wall. You will find that you will be taken to some other places as well, for example the emperor's tomb or the jade markets. After finding out the details of the tours I have noted that often there is only 30 minutes to an hour at the Great Wall and have decided not to take this option. If you want a cheap trip then there are buses to take you there but it will mean at least 2 buses. Always consult with any good tour guide for the current bus numbers. My preferred way to get to the Wall is to hire a taxi for the day. This can be done via the concierge at your hotel.

Agree the price with the driver before you take the taxi. Do not pay the taxi driver until he returns you safely to the hotel. The taxi will take you directly to the wall and you can spend time climbing up the heights of the wall. You should note that the wall is a climb and you will need good walking shoes or trainers. Take care as the Wall itself is at an altitude above sea level and one or more of your party may find the climb difficult. If it has been too much then there is always the option of taking the cable-car down from the wall.

Make sure that you visit the museum that is near the wall. There are photographs of many notable political figures who have visited the wall and seen the enormity of its construction.

The wall is not just a small piece of wall on flat ground but is on the mountainside. All visitors find the path on the top of the wall is very steep and in places has been worn smooth by the many visitors the wall has every year. Make sure that you have water with you as it is very dry up there and buying drinks is very expensive. So take your time and explore. You will find that you get so far and after that the wall is in a bad state of repair so you can go no further. Enjoy seeing one of the wonders of the world.