Thank you for clarifying - that is very helpful! I have to admit I've been caught up in work and not doing the preemptive trip planning I usually do and since I've only had a half day in Beijing before, this is all new to me.

For some reason, the guide my co-worker has hired (that her sister used, and he's been very responsive via email) is really pushing the Summer Palace. As I've said, I don't have a preference - I'll see whatever we can (I'm pretty laissez faire about travel - I'll see what I see, if we get back again great, and if not - I've enjoyed what I've done - I hate the "must see EVERYTHING right now" approach because it's not relaxing).