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Metro> Expats
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My weekend: Ismael de Pierrepont from France
(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-10-16 09:33 When the weekend arrives after a week of hard work, Ismael de Pierrepont from France loves to indulge his passions of food and culture.
Saturday Ismael works late on Friday nights and doesn't usually go out afterwards, so he wakes up early on Saturday mornings. He doesn't have time to do a lot of exercise during the week, so on the weekend he grabs his bike and ride among the city's many hutong. "There are many hidden places in Beijing, and it is a city you need time to appreciate. I like to find these secret spots, in search of a back hutong or traces of history," he said. "I go to Taoranting Park, an ancient park in the south of Beijing, located near the newly opened line 4, or Prince Gong's Mansion, in the western part Houhai Lake, or the Red Sandalwood museum, near Gaobeidian station, where magnificent pieces of furniture are exhibited." "With the winter approaching, some good hot pot like Haidilao or Xielaosong with good friends (and free beer to top it) is especially enjoyable." Ismael likes Haidilao, in the east of Gongti, for its handmade noodles, lean meat and dipping sauces and its great service. "Hot pot is the perfect example of a convivial, laid-back dinner. The way you cook the food and add some spice to the dinner, and it makes it last much longer than a normal dinner, reminding me of familial habits back in France," he said. "In terms of variety, Chinese food offers a variety often ignored by Westerners, from the most healthy food as Malatang (deep-fried vegetables and meatballs) or Mutton chopsticks, to the more elaborate delicacies of Cantonese food." Afterwards, Ismael usually heads out to a bar to chill out, including Centro, Kerry Center in Guomao, Q bar in Sanlitun Nanjie or Club Obiwan in the west of Houhai. However, he also enjoys clubbing with friends from time to time. Two favorites are Bling and Block 8 located close to Lucky Street, where he enjoys the hip-hop and techno music. He parties until 4 am before heading back home for a well-deserved sleep. Sunday After waking up at about lunchtime, Ismael likes to investigate what cultural opportunities are available for foreigners in Beijing. He looks at bands playing at Yugongyishan or M.A.O Livehouse. "If you don't find anything fancy, though, it is always possible to relax at East Shore Live Jazz Caf, east of Houhai, and listen to some nice jazz music," he said. "Later I would cocoon at home, either pulling myself together and study some Chinese or most likely, relax watching old American comedies or a couple of American TV shows." |
