Happy are the merry eaters!

Besides seeing the sights and attractions that a country can offer, I think that one of the most important things that public relations professionals need to consider to understand their environment that is simple and enjoyable: eating. I feel in many ways that you get a real sense of a country and culture by trying out the local cuisine. I really took advantage of this when I went to South Africa last year— I had everything from ostrich to springbok, and I went to many braiis in the process. One of the must-dos for both Kristin and I when we were in Beijing was to find a restaurant that had the signature dish that the city is known for: Peking Duck.

Peking Duck is one of my most favorite Chinese dishes, and I knew that this was an absolute must for me since I am after all a foodie. 🙂 After visiting the Great Wall and Ming Tombs, our travel guide suggested that we go and try out a restaurant that was near our hotel called the Great Wall Restaurant, and she said that they had the best Peking Duck. So, Kristin and I decided that we just had to go and check it out! 🙂

The restaurant was just about a block away from our hotel, so we walked over there. Kristin and I were greeted by the servers with smiles and open arms, and we were seated near a wall that was filled with many Chinese art decorations. We got our menus and checked them out– they had everything that you could possibly imagine! From the traditional dishes that you would find in any Chinese restaurant here in the States (ex. sweet and sour pork, fried rice, etc.) to the more interesting and adventurous dishes like Turtle. Yes, they had turtle and even fried pigeon. But Kristin and I were set to have our Peking Duck. 🙂

How was the Peking Duck– absolutely FABULOUS!!!! I thoroughly enjoyed myself and told myself that Jenny would really have to understand! But it was well worth it– when do you get a chance to have Peking Duck in Beijing??!! Exactly. 🙂

So, overall– the Peking Duck lunch was the exclaimation point for me on my trip to China. China has a lot to offer from historical sights, culture, and of course fabulous cuisine. This has been a trip of a lifetime, and it was an honor to be in China as a public relations professional and a tourist. 🙂

Hope you all are having a fabulous day! 🙂

Best Wishes,

Karen 🙂

Here are our pictures from our Peking Duck Extravaganza at the Great Wall Restaurant!