Beijing Airport Layover Tour to Mutianyu Great Wall

Seeing the Great Wall during our layover was priceless, but the real human connection that came from our guide Roma will leave the most lasting impression. We just spent 6 weeks traveling around SE Asia. We’ve done our fair share of tours, done it on our own, struggled through language barriers and had a few personal helpings of scams and “darnit” moments. We decided to trust the universe and we booked a random online tour for a quick trip to the Great Wall of China during our 10 our layover in Beijing. We were tired, the airport was confusing and we walked out of the baggage claim thinking maybe this was a poor choice..... until Roma our tour guide greeted us with his genuine nature and happy go lucky approach. In a flash we were off in his car driving to The Great Wall. Roma explained the history of the structure, he spoke of China and her history as well. He taught us about Chinese culture and people.... and he did it all as if we were old friends who hadn’t seen each other in a few years. It’s hard to find a genuine tour guide.... being tour guides ourselves we understand and empathize with the hustle and burnout. Roma is a true diamond in the rough, and we would highly recommend asking for him to guide your trip (no matter what it is). Thank you Roma! Thank you China. Thank you Asia. Thank you life. Live while you can, and give thanks while you live.

The tour was great! Easy instructions were given after landing. My driver was waiting with sign, drove a while to meet my guide. He was friendly. We headed to Forbidden City, spent time walking around and taking pictures. Restrooms are avail. After, went to Great Wall at Mutianyu which was far and seemed less populated. Arriving, decided to eat lunch with many dietary options (I am plant based whole foods). I was able to visit a Jade store and seen how jewelry is made from the stone. I bought a Jadeite bangle and a small jade elephant. Proceeded to Great wall riding the gondola lift. We took our time to enjoy walking around and photos. The guide allows a generous time frame. Toilet avail. Meeting back up I experienced the toboggan. So much fun! We had delicious tea then decided to go to a Tea house for tea tasting. This was nice if you're into tea like me. Fast forward, my guide was dropped off 1st and my driver dropped me off 4 hr before flight with plenty of time to go through security and eat dinner. My luggage situation- I checked in my luggage the flight before for a continuous transfer to my next flight. I did not want to carry entire day. Overall, this was an awesome experience however, certain months extremely cold. I requested coats and was not able to happen. Please check weather prior for appropriate attire.

We had a great tour. Everything went according our plan, pick-up and drop-off from the airport. We had enough time to look around. Thanks to our tour guide Edward! Peter