We went to one of 7 Beijing railway stations ( you would need a month in a place to work out where to go -- or go on a tour) to catch the fast train to Pingyao. It took a bit over 4 hours (600 km from Beijing).
(Old) Pingyao is the last remaining walled city with narrow streets and lanes. Since cars are banned we came to our quaint but comfortable hotel by golf cart. The hotel is an old residence that has been done up rather tastefully. We ate in and had a very nice set menu culminating in banana fritters and strawberry ice cream. Now I wasn't expecting that!もっと詳しく
Good to hear food has improved. [Kristina]
旅行者Can you send/receive emails in China as you pondered before setting out?
旅行者No. My VPN is apparently not on the approved list. I can only check through Sue's phone. She has approved VPN. I can't get WhatsApp now either.