Ask Beijing Today

I’m new in town and want to make Chinese friends and meet some of my neighbors in the Lido area. Do you know if there are any organizations or events that help foreigners get acquainted with their community?

Aid college freshmen whose families were affected by flooding

While students were happily enjoying their summer holidays this year, a not insubstantial group of high school graduates were worrying about their future. Due to serious droughts and floods this year, families in many provinces have suffered big losses. Some of these families’ children, who tested into college earlier this year, find themselves unable to enroll due to financial difficulties.

Ask Beijing Today

I’m in the process of quitting smoking, but the Nicorette gum I brought from my country has just run out. Is there any pharmacy in town that provides it? If not, is there a Chinese equivalent?

Chaoyang Park opens treetop adventure zone

Fans of Avatar’s jungle action sequences will delight in Chaoyang Park’s new GoApe Tree-top Adventure zone opened last Saturday.

Wangjing welcomes capital’s biggest cinema

Wangjing is now home to Beijing’s biggest movie theater, the 20-hall New Film Association and Huayi Bro. Cinema, which is offering half-price tickets till late August.

Ask Beijing Today

If your existing residence permit was issued in Beijing, it is not necessary to get a new one. But if you registered in a different city and are now living here, then you need to register for a new permit at the police station nearest your home.

Water Cub reopens August as Asia’s biggest indoor water park

The National Aquatics Center, more popularly known as the Water Cube, will reopen August 8 to become Asia’s biggest indoor water park, the Beijing State-owned Assets Management Company announced Wednesday.

Capital Airport now offers free Wi-Fi

The Beijing Capital International Airport’s upgraded wireless Internet system went into trial use Monday, with free Wi-Fi service in all three terminals.

Ask Beijing Today

I’m tired of standing in line at supermarkets, so I’d like to know if there’s a way I can do my shopping online. I speak very little Chinese, so I need an English website.

Guide to hunting for a one-bedroom apartment

Summers are traditionally a busy season for apartment hunters. Though rent prices have risen in recent months as a by-product of a government policy meant to combat property speculation, office workers still have enough options left, including properties in the central business center (CBD) and diplomatic areas.