Beijing Notebook

The Beijinger online

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 14:35:00 +0000

We all know that The Beijinger, the popular monthly magazine, has a website which is a great source for information and a comprehensive directory. But beside that website, they also blog actual news. And further more, you can read their monthly issues online (via issuu)!

Now out: MAY 2013 issue (click left)

I read the article "Taxing Times" on page 88 about the new annual test that taxi drivers have to take now. It's a measure by authorities to improve the city's cab service. Another change is that passengers apparently have to pay a 50 RMB "vomit fee". Not sure if that applies only to Sanlitun area at night or allover Beijing.

About this blog and closure with China

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 06:54:00 +0000

It is almost five years since we have left Beijing.

Here in Thailand, where we live now, sometimes, I come across people who also have lived in Beijing. Then we have our subject: "How did you like Beijing?", "When have you been there?", "Where did you stay, and how long?".

And we compare life here in Bangkok with life there in Beijing. And we speak of Beijing in high tones. How we liked riding our bicycles around town. That we all studied Mandarin. And how interesting life in China was. Then we laugh about some funny episodes. How fast everything developed towards the Olympics. And how much more Beijing is developed versus Bangkok. And that they do have a city planning!

But at the end, we all say, how sad it is, that China is polluting its country and putting its own people at risk. So badly, lately. Air, soil, water, food, all polluted. It is getting worse and worse.

Just yesterday, I met a lovely couple. She is working for an EU organisation, he is a journalist writing for Time Magazine among other. They just have moved from Beijing to Bangkok. They have moved away from China for the same reason some of my other friends have left the country.

Air pollution is always reason number 1. Before food scandals, heavy traffic and Internet issues.

Last week, another friend left China after 13 years of successful and happy life in the Middle Kingdom. You can read his "Bye Bye China" at Shanghaied Weblog. He and his wife searched the globe for a new home and decided for Vancouver, Canada. Their kids will grow up in a much more healthy environment and experience nature. (Read also Marc's opinion on CNN.com)

So, what has this all to do with my blog?!

I loved living in Beijing. And that is why I was writing about living in Beijing. And I wanted to keep the blog going. But maybe I need a closure with China?

After having left China, writing fresh posts about Beijing related subjects became more and more difficult for me. Sometimes, lovely PR people sent me press material about cultural events and upcoming exhibitions in cool galleries. But, I don't feel motivated anymore posting news that I cannot experience in person.

I am not going to close or delete this blog. There are visitors on Beijing Notebook every day. And yes, readers still can get valued information from my well researched articles. Most posts are valid for ever.

I even think to finally write some more posts about the TCM lessons I took with the "guru". It is a pity to leave his wise words unnoticed in my tiny handwritten notebook. His knowledge should be on Beijing Notebook, at least as much as I have learnt from him.

Dear readers and subscribers, please keep subscribed and come back. This blog will be updated again and stay open for interested readers and comments always.

Ai Weiwei alive and kicking

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 09:48:00 +0000

What seems another fun, harmless, and maybe not even very artistic Gangnam style copy by Chinese dissident artist Ai Weiwei, together with a group of friends, is a way to keep him going. It looks like he enjoyed the crazy dancing. And of course, Ai Weiwei wouldn't be Ai Weiwei if the video would not transport a message. The Chinese title, "grass mud horse", sounds like a swearword and showing off in handcuffs is to criticise Chinese censorship. No surprise, that his video has been taken down from Chinese websites. Some commentators joke, it was because of the lousy dancing.

Ai Weiwei cleverly use all kind of social network to communicate with the world. Here he is just riding on the wave of success of Korean singer Psy's original song and video to transport his message: I am alive and kicking!

But much more serious is the video below. Please take a moment and watch this interview with The New Yorker from October 9, 2012 to understand a little bit more Ai Weiwei's situation and his thinking:

I watched the video a couple of times to understand him better. I feel touched and sad. While living in China, I went once to his restaurant, where he had dinner with friends, but I did not meet him in person. He is not one of the usual successful Chinese artist, like the Gao Brothers that you can meet at 798 art district or Zhang Xiaogang (grey sad faces) and Yue Minjun (colourful laughing faces) who's paintings are selling at auction houses for 5 digit dollar amounts.

Ai Weiwei does not sell commercial art, he uses his art to make people think, to tell a story, a philosophy. I think he is often exhibiting in the West and is more popular in the West because he was educated in the West. He does not seem to have many Chinese friends. Most Chinese don't bother about censorship at all. Other artists don't dare as much as he did in the past.

Of course you can enjoy living in China. You do not necessarily feel the power and censorship of the government. It is not that people are suffering. But the moment you want to criticise something, you will see it and feel it. There is no right of free speech in China and people cannot surf the Internet, zap TV channels or read newspapers and books as in other countries.

Sorry, this blog is not supposed to be political. There is so much to say about it and I am not an expert. I just wanted to share with my readers this interview with a strong personality, who loves his country and only wants the best for it and its citizen, happiness and creativity.

CCTV Tower: Ready to move in - Who would have thought it will take so long?

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 17:08:00 +0000

Beijing CCTV Tower out of a taxi cab in February 2012

The CCTV Tower, now, one of the most famous landmarks in Beijing was proudly presented to the world during the Olympics in 2008. From the outside, the building seems finished - since over for years. But who would have thought, that only now, in these days, the CCTV employees are gradually moving from their old office in a communist building to the new avant-garde headquarters?!

The construction of this futuristic monument, started in Beijing back in 2004. For the speed of China, regarding demolishing old and building new, this project is indeed an exception. But it's architecture is as well exceptional.

Rotterdam-based star architect Rem Koolhaas and his firm Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA) co-designed the building with the young German architect Ole Scheeren. OMA won the design competition for the project ten years ago. Scheeren calls the L-shaped elements, that connect the two angled towers, a "loop," a symbol of cooperation. The CCTV Tower is said to be the world's largest media building, and it contains more expensive technology than any other structure. It's completion was scheduled to be in May 2009.

But why is the tower only now ready to move in?

During Chinese New Year in February 2009, an uncompleted neighbouring building that is part of the complex, caught fire when illegal fireworks were launched by CCTV employees. It took about five hours and 600 fire fighters to get the massive fire under control. The building was severely damaged. This incident delayed the whole project. (To read more about the fire go here).

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Beijing which was supposed to be the main tenant in this building (in the one that caught fire, not in the CCTV tower) has no opening date scheduled. The building is still under construction. (If anyone has more information, please let us know.)

remark:
CCTV = China Central Television (HQ building see above photo)
TVCC = Television Cultural Center (the uncompleted building that caught fire, next to the CCTV tower)

Sanyuanli Fresh Market

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 04:00:00 +0000

my favorite market stall at Sanyuanli no 101

It is one of the best fresh markets in Beijing - quality and cleanness wise. From the main street - you will see a big sign in roman letters "Sanyuanli" over the entrance. The market stretches in one long corridor. It starts with the fruit section. Then some stalls selling tea on the left.

Chinese tea at the market

On the right you can buy some yummy fresh pastry and bread, Chinese style. It smells so good! Further on, you will find some shops selling can food, special spices and sauces in bottles, and then small household items.

In the middle section, you might not want to look too close. This is the wet section. This is why these markets are also called wet markets. There are a few butchers that cut entire veal legs on wooden blocks - right in front of you. They have cheep heads on display and all other parts of animals that are eatable - Chinese way. There is also all kind of seafood on ice. Or it still swims in containers. The ice melts slowly, and drips on the market hall floor. You do not want your pants dipping in the puddles of the wet middle section.

When you made it through the middle section - that is indeed interesting and serves for great photo shoots - you will be in the third and last section selling all vegetables you can think of. They even have those veggies usually not available at Jenny Lou or even Carrefour, not in large quantities though and slightly higher in price.

I have chosen my vegetable stall some years ago by looking at the vendors face - their products are mainly the same, so the quality and the price. So it was the vendors smile and her stall no. 101 that I thought makes the difference.

Now, I was shopping here again at Sanyuanli, after 3 1/2 years of absence. And guess what? All the vendors I used to buy from, recognised me!

They smiled and waved and greeted. I was very touched! My veggie lady was very happy (see her smile above 1st pic) and the fruit vendor sprang up from his seat and gave my and my friends 3 big red strawberries to taste. They were very sweet and tasty indeed. Not like the other Chinese strawberries that are pale pink and even green from the outside, and white from the inside, and tasting like sugar water - because these strawberries during their growth were injected with sugar water.

fruit section at Sanyuanli market

Sanyuanli is my favourite market. Shopping their is fun. Vendors are friendly and beside the floor of the wet section, that is probably not dirty, but just wet, it is very clean. Prices are up in comparison to my last stay, but no wonder with the yuan being up 10% every year!

Adress:

Sanyuanli Market (三源里市场)
Shunyuan Jie, Chaoyang District (朝阳区东三环顺源街), North of Sanlitun
Open: daily 5am – 7pm

A Rap Song for Beijing

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:13:00 +0000

Jason Chu, a hip-hop artist from the US, had been living in Beijing for the last two years. He had been working, learning, and taking in the language and culture. Now, Jason is returning home and his latest rap song is a farewell letter to Beijing.

I am glad he sent me an email to share his video, saying the following:

"... As many expats know, leaving this country brings with it a mixture of emotions - everything from relief to a bittersweet sense of loss. As I reflect on this departure, I’ve been writing songs that talk about life here: both “the expat experience” and the local lives that I’ve come into contact with

This past weekend, I filmed and uploaded a music video for a song called City of the North, a letter to this city in all its difficulty, challenge, and unexpected beauty. It showcases the faces and lives that intersect in this explosion of culture: the students, migrant workers, expats, laobaixing, and more.

The song is the first track off the EP Goodbye, Beijing. that will be releasing on 4/21 at grandmaster.bandcamp.com. There will also be a release party/music video screening/farewell concert in Beijing's 798 art district. If you happen to be in town, or you have any friends or acquaintances who will be, you're definitely all invited to the event. (For more info, please contact jasonchumusic@gmail.com)

My music and thoughts on ABC (editor: American born Chinese) identity in China have been covered in the China Daily and on MSNBC."

I am featuring his music video, because I like it. It is something new to catch a glimpse of Beijing in a rap song! And Jason Chu is a special hip hop artist - follow the links to China Daily and on MSNBC and you will learn why. Also, I enjoyed recognising areas around Sanlitun (and very blue skies!) in his video, listening to the lyrics (the Lost Laowai printed them), and hearing a classic Chinese bow instrument embedded in a rap song.

Thank you Jason, for sharing! Looking forward to the other songs! Good luck and safe journey home!

PS: Actually, the article over at MSNBC - "Not Chinese enough in China? Chinese-Americans caught between 2 worlds" - is a very interesting subject and worth a separate post.

How to become a legal Alien in China

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:22:00 +0000

When you travel by air to China, the flight attendent will hand out immigrartion forms that you need to fill in and hand over at immigration. If you turn the form, you will find the small print on the back of the departure card. Authorities ask you to register with the police shortly after arrival:

"Aliens wishing to lodge at the home of a Chinese resident, at a foreign institution in China or at the home of an Alien in China shall register temporary accommodation."

Beijing Police Station

You won't believe, it took us three attempts.

The first day, we went to the police, the police station was closed for lunch break. At least I managed to take a picture from the building with a striking blue winter sky.

Since Facebook is blocked in China, I was curious to see whether I could upload the photo with my Thai smart phone (I bought a five day data roaming package back in Bangkok via AIS). And, surprise, it worked - I added this caption "one day in China and already at the place station ...". - With the result I got instant messages by friends asking "what happened??" - Silly me ;-)

The second day, we went to the police at the right time, but not with the right document. They asked for a paper confirming that we are staying at a certain private address with details as passport number, birth date, flight details - in Chinese language.

My friend said that the management at the reception of her compound can issue this document.

So, when we went the third time, we had my passport and this document on hand. It was the day before my departure. They put the form aside on a pile with others. They handed me a receipt that confirmed that I have registered, that I am now a legal Alien.

That was it.

When I left China via the airport, they did not ask me for this receipt. It is already in their big computer.

Conclusion:

If you stay in a hotel, the reception is doing the Alien registration for you.
If you stay in a private home, ask your friends for help, or the management of their housing estate, or their Chinese secretary at work to prepare the Chinese form.
So far, the police - at least in my case - has no standard form to provide that would be easier to fill out.
My police station opened at 10am and closed at 5.30pm, but closed for lunch. Not sure about weekends.
If you missed to register, because you had not time - or missed to read the back of the departure card - do not worry, you will be able to leave the country without problems. I have not heard of a case the fine of 500 yuan applied. (If someone knows other, please comment).

Winter in Beijing

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 03:22:00 +0000

market sales woman

Arriving on a winter day in Beijing, you either see a thick yellowish grey sky and the air smells strange - or a striking blue sky with a very bright sun. What you won't see is anything green. The trees are bold, not a single leave, and no grass on the ground, just earthy sand. Like in the dessert, that is not far from Beijing. There is seldom snow in Beijing winters. Close to the dessert there is seldom rainfall after all.

When I arrived at Beijing airport, as soon as I have left the plane, I could smell Beijing air - the bad one, that you have on these yellowish days, especially in winter, when they burn coal for heating, when the smog limits the sight. I saw these brownish sandy grounds as far as I could see, and the bold grey trees.

That's Beijing in winter. It's dusty and cold. And I like it! It's this special charm that you don't find in other countries.

But the more charming winter sights in Beijing are the frozen lakes. So was the canal in North Sanlitun that goes past the Lufthansa Centre.

lonely fisher at the frozen canal in Sanlitun, Beijing

Beijing luckily has many sunny winter days that make look the dusty city very friendly. If you dress warm - like going for skiing - you can enjoy some outdoor activities.

ice skating Chinese style on frozen Hohai lake

Ice skaters can have fun in Ritan Park and around Hohai Lake. There are those skating chairs and bikes for rent that are typical for Beijing winters. It is real fun for everybody.

Going back to Beijing

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:34:00 +0000

Green T House Living

I am looking forward to my trip to Beijing! Very much. Although it is much more complicated to get a VISA then a year ago. China seems much more careful with visitors. If you plan to visit China, check out the regulations for your country in advance to have enough time to prepare all the documents. When you stay at a private home, no matter Chinese or Alien, you will need their passport copies, residence permit and an invitation letter.

And maybe, I say maybe, as I am not sure, I had to provide further documents because I did not like to be a "housewife" by profession and therefore checked "retired" instead. The Chinese Embassy asked to provide bank statements. Probably to prove a regular income which makes me less a candidate to search for a job in Beijing.

BTW, if you are a writer or journalist - you will need to indicate that in your visa request.

Nevertheless, I am looking very much forward meeting friends in my former home town, going shopping and eating in some of my favorite restaurants - and refresh my Mandarin. Also I am curious to see how much has Beijing has changed again since my last visit (15 months ago).

Happy New Year of the DRAGON !

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:54:00 +0000

Happy New Year of the Dragon !

Happy Chinese New Year !

xīn nián kuài lè !

(Happy New Year in mandarin)

gōng xǐ fā cái

(congratulations and be prosperous)

The Dragon is the most powerful sign of the Chinese zodiac. So I wish this will be a very happy, lucky, healthy, successful and prosperous year for all of us! Actually the Year of the Dragon starts today. Today, January 23rd 2012 is the first day of the New Dragon Year!

This photo was taken over Chinese New Year weekend in Bangkok, near Chinatown (for more pics see my Bangkok blog). And I am so excited. I am planning a trip to Beijing next month. I am looking forward to practise my new photo skills ;-) At the moment, I am learning how to use my heavy camera. Also I am saying farewell to another dear friend and family who is moving back to Europe after almost seven years in Beijing. It's the bad air quality that makes them even look forward to their move. I will be able to report from site soon.

Beijing Air is not healthy and where to get regular updates about Beijing Air Quality

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:20:00 +0000

I used to check the government website for air quality here. It provides daily the Air Pollution Index (API) and corresponding grade for about 85 Chinese cities.

But when you live in Beijing you would be interested in getting this information updated more regularly throughout the day. Especially, if you want to go for outdoor activities, you better check the air quality as the air is really bad in winter. Today early afternoon, the API was over 400! Now, 11pm it is down to 107.

You can find the information via www.bjair.info

actual information and overview throughout the day

The Beijing Air Quality Index of www.bjair.info shows the actual API. It also shows the actual level or grade of pollution based on US standards, all levels of the last 24 hours (by colour) and its lowest and highest API of the last 24 hours.

the scale is divided in 6 levels based on the US standards

This information above is provided by the US Embassy. But the data is collected by anonymous in Chaoyang District and twittered every one or two hours (see below):

follow twitter @BeijingAir or http://twitter.com/beijingair

Today at 11pm, the API was down to 107 (via www.BJair.info) while the Ministry of Environmental Protection indicates a similar API of 109 - but that shows only the lowest particle rate for the day.

If you are interested in other articles I have written about air quality in Beijing, go here to see all - or read just one about polluted blue skies here.

Be an artist and add to the installation of Mo Yi at the Opposite House

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 16:42:00 +0000

During these cold winter days in Beijing, you might come along the streets of Sanlitun. And when the icy wind makes you shiver, stop by The Opposite House - the boutique hotel with the green glass front - for a hot tea or a tasty lunch - and for some fun creativity.

The Opposite House is hosting an installation of Mo Yi (see press release below) and is inviting guests to interact. Get your eyes photographed and think about issues related to sight. Write it around your photo in your language and let it be part of the growing installation. - You will also get a copy as a souvenir to take home.

You can be an artist while in Beijing.

This reminds me of a quote of the German provocateur artist Joseph Beuys: " Jeder Mensch ein Kuenstler" - everyone (is) an artist - meaning, that everyone can be creative and reflecting . It does not take much - and it makes the world a better place.

The installation will be running until December 31st 2011. The interactive session is from 11.00am to 2.00pm daily in the atrium of The Opposite House, Beijing. The photographer will be taking photo of the guests and adding the new photos to the installation.

The following information is provided by the public relations representative of the Opposite House:

The Opposite House is pleased to present “Through My Eyes,” an interactive photography installation by artist Mo Yi from the Three Shadows Photography Art Centre, from October 19 to December 31, 2011. Through the presentation of multiple photographs of eyes, the viewer is asked to contemplate several issues related to sight, such as race, geographic region, gender, age, experience, personality, thought and desire. The exhibition will explore the interplay between the audience, artist and photography.

Visitors are invited to have their eyes photographed on site (available two hours each day) and to help complete the installation by adding text to the edges of the resulting print. Each participant will be given an additional copy of the photograph to take home. The ever-changing installation strives to act as a bridge for expression and communication between people of different cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

“We’re delighted to present Mo Yi’s interactive installation as a way to explore and understand the individual response to being and reflecting on important issues that affect us all. The participation in the installation is key to this dynamic project, and we’re honored to have it at The Opposite House,” says Anthony Ross, Area General Manager of Swire Hotels.

Mo Yi has been photographing urban life in China for the past thirty years. He has widely exhibited in group and solo exhibitions in Asia (China, Japan, Korea), Europe (Belgium, Germany, Italy) and the USA. His work has been collected internationally by many museums and private collectors from USA, France, Britain, Japan and China. He currently works and lives in Beijing.

The Opposite House is committed to supporting the growing contemporary Chinese art scene and emerging local artists in every medium, from sculptures to music to film. “Through My Eyes” demonstrates The Opposite House’s commitment to bringing the best art programs, establishing it as a prominent venue for culture and lifestyle.

Hong Kong: Handbags by Bez & Oho

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 10:27:00 +0000

Bez & Oho online Boutique

The internet is a great place to discover new things - and that's why we all love it!

Today I found Bez & Oho in Hong Kong via Nicely Made in China. And you do not need to be in Hong Kong to see their colourful handbags made of receycled rice bags. They sell online.

The founder and owner, Annalisa Ryle arrived in Hong Kong 13 years ago via the volunteer route working with the St. Stephen’s Society – in fact her office is still on the charity’s premises in Hong Kong. 5 years ago she founded Bez & Oho (after the biblical characters Bezalel and Oholiab), a company which makes a difference.

Not only their bags reflect a funky China Style from Hong Kong - their bags are "green" of receycled material and they help people because the company employs vulnerable locals.

I enjoyed browsing their website. They took professional photos to set you in the right mood:

BEZ & OHO cool messanger bag

"green" messanger bag

messanger bag detail

funky clutch

Bez & Oho Market Tote Bag "Hong Kong Classic"

However, when you are in Hong Kong, you can find a selection of these bags here:

Asian Artworks Gallery

G102 The Repulse Bay Arcade
Repulse Bay Road
Hong Kong
(852) 2812 0850

Or come and visit Annalisa and her gals at their Studio in Kwun Tong to see what they're making!

Photo Source: Bez & Oho, HK

Shanghai: HGTV needs Relocation Expert

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 10:59:00 +0000

Dear Readers,

After my last post about HGTV calling for casting here is another urgent request from the HGTV production team. For the HGTV show going to be produced in Shanghai they need a local relocation expert who is fluent in English.

More details:

"...
The role for this person will be to accompany our host, Chi-Lan Lieu to different locations around the city and introduce her to the culture, the lifestyle and the real estate market (buying and renting) as well as three sets of homeowners/renters that we will be profiling in the episode. He/she will talk with our sharing interesting facts about the relocation process and the challenges and struggles of living in Shanghai in a personal yet informative manner. Agents who understand the tricks of the trade, for example - an agent needs to be sure to understand the difference between furnished and unfurnished or the client might not get a kitchen sink!, are perfect candidates for this role as long as they're knowledge is focused on Shanghai (or perhaps one of our other cities should you have contacts in Dubai or Tokyo). We will send all materials prior to our arrival so the expert will have plenty of time to prepare.

It is a really fun opportunity for everyone involved, so if you or someone you know, perhaps an agency that has a great reputation?, is a knowledgeable, English speaking, outgoing, youthful and confident relocation consultant/expert who would like to apply for the position or who might know someone who is a good fit, please get in touch with me so we can get the process started. All applicants are required to submit a casting video and complete a questionnaire so it's important I have time to collect these. ~~My deadline is Sept. 14 (give or take a few days) so hopefully we talk soon!~~

Please let me know if you have questions, otherwise, feel free to forward our press release or the name of a company or person who would be a great resource. As you probably know, the episode will be filmed ~~between September 28 - October 3~~ UPDATE: after the holidays in the week of October 10, 2011 and will only need to be available for three of these days. We'll definitely have those dates confirmed before a casting decision is made.

Thank you,
Heather"

contact:
Heather Shreckengost
Sr. Associate Producer
HGTV - Real Estate International
High Noon Productions, LLC
3035 South Parker Road, Suite 500
Denver, CO 80014
email: hshreckengost@highnoontv.com

----------------
REMARK:
I am looking forward receiving some photos from HGTV of nice Shanghaian homes to publish here on this blog for interior design lovers. However this will be after the show was on air in March 2012.

Update:
The HGTV team changed the shooting date and deadlines as they were not aware of the Golden Week in October. The shooting of the show will now be in the week of October 10 - after the famous Chinese holidays.

Shanghai: HGTV Home and Garden Television Casting Call

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 07:56:00 +0000

Dear Expats living in Shanghai,

a few days ago, I found in my mailbox a message from a producer of Home and Garden Television (HGTV) who came across my blog. They are going to film a new show for HGTV in Shanghai!

The producers want to know if any of my readers or friends in Shanghai might be interested in applying to be on the show. As it is a very popular U.S. TV show, they call for American Expats living in Shanghai. The shooting will be after the golden week holiday in the week of October 10, 2011.

HGTV press release

Here the details from the press release:

HGTV IS CASTING AMERICANS LIVING IN SHANGHAI FOR A NEW TV SHOW

Home & Garden Television (HGTV) is launching a new international series that features American expats telling their stories about what it’s like to live abroad.

HGTV Producers want to hear from fun, outgoing, enthusiastic Americans Expats who are living in Shanghai RIGHT NOW!

In each episode, our host will experience Shanghai through the eyes of expat families. From the design of your space (what features of your home are typical of properties in Shanghai?) to the lifestyle and culture of the area (what major life changes have you experienced as a result of your move? What do you do for fun?), the American Expats will give viewers a first hand look at what it’s like to live overseas.

About HGTV INTERNATIONAL

HGTV International is a voyeuristic look at the stunning home properties and lifestyles of American expats. This program showcases home design, set within the hottest places to live around the world.

About the HGTV

HGTV, America’s leader in home and lifestyle programming, is distributed to more than 89 million U.S. households and is one of cable’s top-rated networks. HGTV.com is the nation’s leading online home and garden destination that attracts an average of 5.2 million unique visitors per month.

About HIGH NOON ENTERTAIMENT

High Noon Entertainment, located in Denver Colorado, produces HGTV International. In addition to HGTV International, High Noon produces many other shows including VH1’s Tough Love; TLC’s Cake Boss; Food Network’s Unwrapped, Challenge; HGTV’s My First Place, House Hunters; You may learn more about High Noon at http://www.highnoonentertainment.com.

Contact

If you’re interested or if you have any friends that might be in applying, please contact the producer immediately and email photos of you and your family along with photos of your home to:
Callie Zanandrie
Producer
Email: czanandrie@highnoontv.com

Beijing Blames Foreigners for Its Fears of Unrest | China Digital Times (CDT)

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Mon, 09 May 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Beijing Blames Foreigners for Its Fears of Unrest China Digital Times (CDT)

Ai Weiwei and others are still detained. Even in Hong Kong two were arrested for spreading Ai Weiwei graffitis downtown yesterday.

CDT reports about foreign embassies under pressure, culture forums, school programs and more needed to be cancelled.

Some years ago, I attended a speech about Feng Shui at the Beijing China Culture Club. They told us that it is not well seen by the government to talk about that subjet. Just to give you an idea, what kind of culture programs might already be considered to threaten the harmony.

It is sad to see what is happening.

My blog statistic shows 0.8 % of my readers are from China. This is the Great Fire Wall of China. Becoming even greater.

This blog was always holding back from politics. I was a guest of this great country. And I liked it most of the time.

It is the harshest crackdown on free speech in years. And no one knows where it will end.

---
UPDATE: Ai Weiwei is alive, they give him his medicine, they do not torture him. His wife was allowed to see him for 15 min. (after 6 long weeks of no notice!). A little progress. I hope they let him go soon.

Free Ai Weiwei !

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 18:52:00 +0000

Artist Ai Weiwei in the ruins of his demolished studio in Shanghai in January 2011 (via Getty Images)

Ai Weiwei (or Ai Wei Wei), probably the most internationally known Chinese artist who often criticises the Chinese Communist Party for many good reasons, is still detained in Beijing by police since April 3rd.

Ai Weiwei's international popularity allowed him - so far - to express outspoken social critics without being arrested. However, according to himself, he was dangerously beaten up by Chinese police while protesting in Sichuan after the 2008 earthquake where hundreds of schoolchildren died due to poorly built school houses.

There are many other Chinese artists that make money by selling art to the international market that's subject is criticising former chairman Mao. But there are not many artist that dare to openly criticize the actual government.

Although, Mr. Ai continuously built up international relationships with galleries and museums in the US, UK, Germany, Netherlands, Austria etc. and additionally used the new media twitter (#Aiww) to create a kind of public protection around him, he lately was under house arrest in Beijing and now is detained.

I am really sad and shocked to hear what happened to Ai Weiwei.
I liked to live in China, I liked Beijing.
I like the Chinese cultural heritage.
China's economical power is growing and Chinese citizens are proud of their nation.

Why on earth does the Chinese government need to detain this artist?

Most of the Chinese citizens will not care about Ai Weiwei, I am afraid. They will believe the government that this silly old man has committed a tax fraud or so.

When I say "FREE AI WEIWEI", I am not (only) saying that to the Chinese officials, I am saying this to the Chinese people. Please, stand up, stand behind him. His critics are human. He is not asking much. He is a bright and intelligent man. His art is not commercial as the one of many others. He is doing this for a better China. - When this man is arrested, they can arrest anybody.

When the German chancellor Merkel is asking to "Free Ai Weiwei", most of the Chinese people will not understand her and dislike this involvement - as they did, when she said something in favor of the Dailai Lama. Chinese citizens are proud of their nation, once again, they do not like to be criticised by the West.

It is like someone is talking bad about your parents. You need to grow up to understand that your parents are not always right. It feels like most Chinese have not grown up yet. And this is why I feel sad for Ai Weiwei: While he is putting his live at danger to improve human rights in China, most of the Chinese don't care.

This dilemma drove him abroad where he made sure his concept work and installations become well-known in the art world. But as a Chinese born he also feels connected to China and therefor lives in Beijing with studios in Beijing and Shanghai - the latter was demolished by the government in January 2011. However, he was said to open a gallery in Berlin soon and even move there. He must have felt very unsafe.

It is in the Chinese mentality that critics are not appreciated by superiors. - Will this ever change?

Here more information about Ai Weiwei and his detention at New York Times:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/04/world/asia/04china.html?_r=1&scp=8&sq=ai%20weiwei&st=cse
http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/a/ai_weiwei/index.html

And check blogger Peking Duck's post with over 200 comments of both sides:
http://www.pekingduck.org/2011/04/the-global-times-and-ai-weiwei/

You may also like this post with my links to Ai Weiwei:
http://beijingnotebook.blogspot.com/2009/10/60-years-people-republic-of-china.html

*** Comments and critics are welcome! ***

UPDATE May 3rd:
Still nobody knows where AWW is detained.
A friend gave me this link to read: http://www.economist.com/node/18560351, an article about China's recent crackdowns by The Economist from April 14th, 2011

UPDATE May 16th:
His wife met him yesterday (May 15th) for 15 minutes after 6 weeks of no notice. They give him his medicine, they do not torture him. At least a sign of life. His wife said, he seemed very quiet/serious and only said he does not understand for what he is accused. More discussion on this subject was not allowed during that meeting.
I hope they will let him go soon.

Japan Nuclear Situation: Due to westwinds no danger for China (update)

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 04:52:00 +0000

A hypothetical "radiation cloud", from either Fukushima Daiichi or Onagawa, will most likely be diverted to the East due to typical westerly winds.

Source of photo and read more about it at

http://www.accuweather.com/blogs/news/story/46984/japan-nuclear-incident.asp

----------------

update:

But on the other hand: winds can change.

Look at this video, that shows an animation of the radioactive cloud over Europe and parts of Asia after the nuclear accident in Chernobyl (Tschernobyl) in April and May 1986. Very sad!

For now, the accident in Japan is rated 5 on the INES scale from 1-7, while Chernobyl was a major accident and rated 7.

Chinese Government should install lots of windmills!!!

Sorry, no time for jokes.

Jasmine Revolution in Beijing ?! - no way !

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 09:17:00 +0000

When my mother, living in Europe, called me yesterday and told me that there are demonstrations in Beijing and other cities going on, starting the so called "Jasmine Revolution", I had to question her Western media sources. Of course I read about some calls for protest rallies on Sundays, but also that nobody came - or those who came were arrested (which I do oppose of course).

Not sure what the Western Media is hoping for. Democracy in China or a higher circulation ?

Chinese are definitely not going to rally because they neither want nor need a revolution. Chinese are proud of their nation that is moving forward. Their quality of live is getting better every year. Money rules the Chinese World ! And the government is aware of what needs to bee done to secure "harmony" (in a positive way, I hope). That is the difference to the other middle East countries.

When I checked my favorite blogs, I found these very good posts that worth reading for a quick insight:

http://www.pekingduck.org/2011/02/jasmine-revolution-tiananmen-20-no/

and this:

http://chinadigitaltimes.net/2011/02/could-mideast-revolutions-spread-to-china/

or this:

http://www.danwei.org/government/failed_jasmine_protests_in_chi.php

In my blog I hardly say anything about politics. But what makes me angry is to see the so called free and intellectual Western Media writing constantly negative about anything Chinese.

But on the other hand (to be fair, I have to mention that not everything is China is great), what bothered me most while living in China was the Internet censorship. Facebook, twitter, blogs, all blocked and certain web content blocked or deleted. After Egypt used the Internet so successfully to organise its revolution, the Great Fire Wall of China will become even more strict. But does it really bother Chinese enough to dare to protest on the streets? And if yes, it would not lead to a downfall of the government, maybe not even to an improvement of the censorship or human rights. These changes only come slowly, when the government feels sure about a harmonious society.

Still Winter in Beijing

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:16:00 +0000

IMG_4248 f
Originally uploaded by Liping Yang

What a beautiful picture by Liping Yang ! He took it on February 16, 2011 at the Summer Palace in Beijing. It must be still very cold when the lake is frozen. And although winters are cold, snow is seldom in Bejing. So, it's an event for kids when there is snow and even enough to make a snowman !

However, skiing is possible during winter - with a few fun slopes, but with artifical snow only. (But now, as you can see, with some additional real snow!)

Modern Chinese Furniture: Seat for T. by JinR

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:24:00 +0000

We found them ! Remember, that my girlfriends and I had lunch at the Green T. House Living in Shunyi, outside Beijing last October and we saw these awesome red acrylic horseshoe shape Chinese chairs (see my post) and wondered ever since if they would be for sale? My friend Yvalie, beside other talents, she is a very talented web surfer, found them at the Green T. House online shop and at an US online shop here.

Quan Chair red acrylic (as seen at Green T. House Living)

Interior of the Green T. House in Sanlitun, Beijing

The above acrylic chair is also available in clear and in another shape. When you click on the first picture, you will see the price, and this is not so funny anymore... 3,755 USD.

The Ming Chair (left) with a 2,30 m high back, costs even more. What a pity, these chairs are so cool.

The Green T. House(s) is famous for JinR's creative concept offering sophisticated dishes on unique plates in a minimalistic surrounding while sitting on special seats. Now JinR has even launched her "Seat for T." collection.

Sometimes it is difficult to believe that behind all this beauty is just one master mind. JinR, originally a musician, when she became a tea house owner in Sanlitun, later a restaurateur, interior designer of her restaurants and now even a furniture designer. I think she is not only very pretty, but also very smart and has some very good consultants working for her. An allround entrepreneur that I admire!

JinR the creator of the Green T. House

Happy New Year of the Rabbit !

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 07:48:00 +0000

If you have forgotten someone in the West to wish a Happy New Year in December or January, now, it's the right time to grab a nice red greeting card and send your best wishes for a Happy New Year of the Rabbit.

Chinese do not celebrate the arrival of the New Year in just one night. It is a week long celebration. Traditionally, in the last days Chinese would have been cleaning and decluttering their homes to let new energy flow. They would get a hair cut, to get rid of the "old". Especially kids are sent to the hairdresser these days.

Today, is the merit making day. Food, especially oranges and cakes are brought to the temple or house altar together with flowers and incent sticks.

Tonight is New Years Eve and you will hear fire crackers in the streets, they can be really loud and scary. And lots of fireworks, everybody shoots everything! I remember my first Chinese New Year in Beijing, it was in 2007, the first year, that fireworks were allowed in Beijing after a long ban. A war zone cannot be worse. It started in the afternoon and lasted til 2 am the next day. The longest and wildest firework ever! We lived between the 2nd and 3rd ring road, and people had parked their cars on Dongzhimenwai and took out tons and tons of fireworks of their completly full trunks and blow one after the other. Even from appartment buildings they were "shooting" out of windows. The next year, it was already much more moderate. Inside the second ring road the use of fireworks is limited to tonight due to risk of fires in hutongs.

Tomorrow, February 3rd 2011, is the first day of the Year of the Rabbit. In Chinese cities and in Chinatowns around the world people will be out in the streets and watching the lion dances, dragon parades and Chinese opera performances. Lots of Chinese would dress in traditional costumes or at least wear something red. The red colour stands for good luck, and the noise of the fire crackers is meant to scare evil and daemons away.

Eating and celebrating with family and friends is what happens in the next days of the Chinese New Year week. Sharing food and even sending food to far away relatives is a tradition.

However, some of the Chinese New Year sweets do not look that appealing . The nian gao ?, no, not really. So why not make your own Chinese New Year muffin or cup cake? Since the Western tradition is baking for Christmas or Easter, you might do your own Chinese New Year Baking as well. My friend Carrie (who I know from Beijing where our boys went together to kindergarten) created these absolutely beautiful cupcakes:

cupcakes by Carrie Nyon

She is so crazy about baking that she has just started a business, the "Cake Inc" in KL, Malaysia - where she has moved after Beijing - and where you can order these cupcakes and other cakes for your special occasion.

Xin Nian Kuai le !

May the New (xin) Year (nian) be Happy (kuai) for you !

Happy New Year from Harbin

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 08:17:00 +0000

Happy New Year ! and thank you! to all Beijing Notebook readers, returning visitors, subscribed friends, friendly commenter, linked sites and sponsors for supporting this blog in many ways.

The above photo (via Reuters) shows fireworks over stunning ice sculptures in Harbin, northeast China during the 27th famous Ice and Snow Festival's official opening on January 5th, 2011.

The festivals starts every year in December and lasts until the end of February. It is extremely cold during this period in Harbin, it gets easily - 20 to - 30 degrees Celsius !, which allows ice sculptures to last long and to attract many visitors from all over China.

Harbin is only a two hours flight away from Beijing and could be an exciting weekend trip for the whole family!

Happy New Year,

suzie

Red Acrylic Chinese Chairs

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 13:33:00 +0000

These traditional Chinese horseshoe shaped chairs are not of red lacquered wood. They are acrylic chairs ! They look super cool in the stylish "Green T. House Living" in Shunyi, Beijing.

My stay in Beijing was fantastic, I still have not figured out where to start. So I am posting two pics my friend took during our lunch at the Green T. House living. She would like to know where to get these acrylic chairs. Anyone can help?

photo source: N.U.

Active Expat Ladies in Beijing - or Selfmade Entrepreneurs

noreply@blogger.com (- Susan -) — Sun, 14 Nov 2010 04:59:00 +0000

click to enlarge

I admire these active expat ladies !

Another bazar is coming up, this time on Wednesday, November 17 at East Lake Villas! In Sanlitun, Beijing, my old home! - And look at the flyer they made ! It is send out via email and probably hangs out at expat compounds, condos and supermarkets.

I love their "label" names : Shanghai Trio, Mandarine Coco, Tang' Roulou ... - and the money they have to pay for their bazar stand goes to charity. What a clever concept.

The products you can buy at these kind of bazaars that go round in the community are mainly designed by these active expat ladies and produced by Chinese workers or factories that they found suitable. Some other ladies import products you otherwise would not find in Beijing. And so they keep them self busy and try out entrepreneur's life. Some of the ladies are so successful that they have their own shops yet.

Take Shanghai Trio, they just opened a shop at the new North Village in Sanlitun. They have already boutiques in Shanghai and Paris, but in Beijing they tried only bazars for a long time, or on appointment at home.

While in Beijing, my friend and I went to their shop and bought small bags in shiny red waterproofed material. Shanghai Trio is one of my favorites and I hope they survive the probably very high rental fees at North Village.

And long before Constance de Toldi, the organiser of the above "So French" bazar, started with her cashmere business, my friend Ira Walendy was already doing her private Cashmere Parties. Now, more ladies try their luck, also with kid's cashmere collections. Ira meanwhile concentrates on her 0813 spa collection , where she and her friend aim more at hotel shops to become customers.

Since this is a unpaid advertising post for all active expat ladies in Beijing, I want to name some more - also as inspiration for "still dreaming" expats - like me.

Some other successful entrepreneur ladies in Beijing :

Kathrin von Rechenberg : "tea silk" fashion made in China. Kathrin, originally from Munich, married to a Chinese, shows her collections at fashion shows at The Orchard Restaurant, shoes up at bazaars (preferred the Embassy house) and has her own shop in Sanlitun (near Embassy house) were she works and lives.

Rouge Baiser Elise : home embroidered linen by Parisian Elise de St. Guilhem. After a successful shop in Shanghai, she opened one more boutique in Sanlitun, Beijing. This is run by some French ladies taking turns in the shop.

If home made necklaces or cashmere from the wool spinning city are not enough handcraft for you, I have two more examples of successful entrepreneurs: Take the French butcher Michel or the German bakery "Cafe Constance" (Konztanz). That's real business.

But I still dream small. Online sales, paypal payment... just don't have the product yet.

Find more inspiration via nicely made in China, a portal for quality products made in China aiming at export. You can browse by categories like DESIGN, FASHION, HANDMADE, CRAFTS. You will find the stories behind Shanghai Trio, Kathrin von Rechenberg and many more active expats that became entrepreneurs !