Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: usually somewhere between 30000 and 40000 feet...but actually the English countryside
Programs: BA GGL/Lifetime Gold, EK Gold, Lowly M&M, Marriott tit, Hhonors Diamond, numerous others
Posts: 1,156
I have visited both places several times, albeit PEK once as a tourist, and about 6-7 times for work. Im afraid I was very stereotypical and visited the Great Wall, Tianamen Sq (huge disappointment), Forbidden Palace etc. So whilst I have been there, I wouldnt rush back. The pollution stories are all true.
Bali is different. Different culture, different people, a bit like turning the clock back. As a family we loved it and will go back yet again. Beaches, temples, shopping, volcanos etc etc. Just avoid Nusa Dua!
I would sum it up though as PEK for a city break - DPS for a short holiday. YMMV.
p.s. before I get attacked about PEK, I realise there is much much more there to do than I have listed, thats just my experience. I have also visited Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou which are all different again.