I would like to know about interesting places near Beijing as I will be there for the first time in a couple of weeks. I understand it may be rather warm and perhaps a beach trip would be nice. Or maybe some cool mountains.
Near to me means two-three hours tops on train or bus. And, since I am paying, not super expensive.
And, I would like to get off the beaten track and see the "real" China (but do not wish to be attacked by Red Guards!
). I already know about the Great Wall.
I guess when you go somewhere new even the tourist traps can be interesting.
As an indication of what I find interesting, I loved the old area around the French Embassy in BKK, the Gold Market in Cairo and Pat's King of the Steaks area in Philly (Italian Market area).