Qingdao, China

Qingdao is surrounded by the Yellow Sea on a peninsula within China's Shandong Province.

Qingdao became German territory in 1898 and was soon home to a naval port and the famous Tsingtao Beer Factory. The Germans also introduced electricity, a clean drinking water system, sewer system, and elements of classic German architecture and urban design. After a brief stint of Japanese occupation, Qingdao was recouped by The People's Republic of China in 1922. The breezy, ocean-side city is now a national tourist destination, manufacturing hub, and modern port city. Qingdao's population hovers around 8 million and includes a substantial Korean community as a part of its thriving expat presence--indicated by the great variety of cuisine available. Qingdao was named China's 7th livable city in 2008.

At first the Gothic German architecture seems out of place. St. Michael's Cathedral looms above the GuangXi road shopping area and noodle shops are tucked into alleys fit for cozy Berlin. A series of quirky beaches lie along the water and a quick ferry ride can take you to the Gold and Silver beaches of Huangdao in no time. Golden Beach was especially pleasant-- less crowded and much cleaner, that is if you don't mind plenty of seaweed in your shorts!

The streets smell like raw, sun-marinated seafood and plastic beach toys are almost disturbingly ubiquitous. Beer street, the touristy avenue outside the Tsingtao Factory, is a must see. Giant neon hops have been attached to the fronts of the nearby apartment buildings and kegs are stacked high and proud outside of the various outdoor restaurants and drinking spots.


















Tsingtao Beer Factory






Chateau Huadong- Parry
Nestled in the Laoshan mountain region an hour north of Quingdao, Chateau Huadong-Parry is reminiscent of a French estate; complete with fountains, classic statues, and plenty of vines! We enjoyed a video-history, tour of the vinyards and a tasting after braving a local busride into the countryside. Laoshan's terrain and climate is similar to the European vinyard regions and perfect for growing grapes for both red and white wines. The chateau includes a museum, wine tasting area, restaurant, function rooms and cigar lounge as well as a statue of the founder, Michael Parry.