When you come to Beijing there is obviously a ton of options for fun things to do and great food to eat. But just like any place in the world, there is also a plethora of things you should avoid or be careful about. Here’s a short list i’ve compiled of the things you must NOT do while hanging out or living in Beijing.

- You can skip pizza hut. Sure, it’s a great novelty to see corn and shrimp on the same pizza, but skip that and go straight for Kro’s Nest or Hutong Pizza in Hou Hai.

- If you are visiting for a short time either go to the Silk Market OR the Pearl Market. Don’t feel like you have to do both, they are essentially the same thing. If you end up at the Pearl Market, please go say hello to my friend Pei Pei at Leymo Coffee.

- Do NOT hesitate when crossing the road. Either go or don’t go. Those who hesitate are flat like pancake. (Chinese proverb).

- Don’t retreat to Starbucks for your coffee fix. Venture out to other coffee shops. You just might be surprised. However, i will admit that one major benefit to Starbucks is that it’s a non-smoking coffee shop.

- Do NOT travel in the city by bus or taxi between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. The traffic will be a true nightmare. Try to take the subway. It will be super crowded, but at least you won’t be sitting in a standstill on the gridlocked Beijing roads.

- Do NOT think you can just blab in English anywhere and everywhere with the assumption that no one can understand you. Beijing is not the countryside. More people can understand you than you think. You will end up putting your foot in your mouth. Guaranteed.

- Do NOT complain when the wind blows like a hurricane. That just means it’s blowing the smog out and you should be grateful.