Beijing
Explore destinations and travel stories
Welcome to Baba Goes China!
I'm Magda, a travel blogger sharing authentic family adventures in China. Join me as I explore this incredible country with my family and share practical tips, honest reviews, and real experiences to help you plan your perfect China adventure.
AS FEATURED IN
BabaGoesChina.com in Lonely Planet China 2025 Edition
Lonely Planet about Baba goes China:
"The babagoeschina.com blog also has lots of useful tips for travelling in China with kids."
About this site
Hey, I'm Magda! 👋
你好 and welcome! My family and I accidentally fell in love with China during a 5-week trip with our daughters (ages 4 months and 2.5 years at the time).
What started as a COVID-postponed dream became our biggest travel obsession. Now we're learning Mandarin, celebrating Chinese festivals, and planning our next adventure.
Why This Blog Exists
Honestly? Planning that first China trip was scary. I couldn't find practical info anywhere and kept wondering things like "Will we find diapers?" (Yes, everywhere!)
So I created the resource I wish I'd had - real advice from a real family who's been there, done that, and loved every chaotic minute of it.
What You'll Find Here
✈️ Detailed destination guides with real family experiences
🗺️ Practical itineraries tested with kids in tow
🏨 Honest recommendations for hotels, tours, and activities
🗣️ Mandarin learning resources for the whole family
🎨 Cultural insights to enrich your China experience
Trust me, it's easier than you think!
China Travel Essentials
WeChat for Tourists: All You Need To Know (2025)
Step-by-Step Setup & Tips for Using WeChat in China
How to Use DiDi in China
Complete Guide for Foreigners (2025)
Must-have apps for a trip to China (2025)
All the essential apps to make your trip to China as frictionless as possible
China with Kids
Beijing vs Shanghai: Which Chinese City to Visit First (+ Family Tips)
Beijing or Shanghai — which Chinese city should you visit? An honest comparison of culture, cost, vibe, and family-friendliness from six trips to China.
China with Kids: Yes, You Can Do This — Here's How
All-in-one trip planning advice from a family who keeps coming back (6 times and counting!)
A homestay in Tibetan countryside - with children!
Taking a baby and a toddler to a homestay in a village in the countryside near Lhasa
Latest From the Blog
Xi'an Itinerary: How to Spend 2–4 Days in China's Ancient Capital (2026)
A realistic day-by-day plan for 2 to 4 days in Xi'an — what to do each morning, afternoon and evening, with timings, a budget, and tweaks for short trips and families.
Best Things to Do in Xi'an — Must-See Attractions and Local Favourites
Beyond the Terracotta Warriors: the classics, the parks, the shows and the street food that make Xi'an worth your days — with our honest take on what to skip
Xi'an Travel Guide (2026): Plan Your Trip to China's Ancient Capital
Everything you need to plan a trip to Xi'an — when to go, where to stay, and what's actually worth your time — from someone who's been twice
Beijing Express: The Free Layover Tour from Beijing Airport (2026 Guide)
A free trip to the Great Wall while waiting for your flight connection? AirChina and Trip.com are changing the long-haul game!
Chengdu Itinerary: How to Enjoy 3–5 Days in Sichuan's Capital (2026)
A Chengdu itinerary to explore the old and the new
Shanghai Itinerary: How to Spend 3-5 Perfect Days (2026)
A realistic day-by-day Shanghai itinerary — honest pacing, real restaurant tips, family-friendly alternatives, and what this trip actually costs
Exploring Milan's Chinatown: What It's Really Like
An honest guide to Milan‘s Chinatown from someone who has been to China
China Travel: The How-To Guide For First-Timers
All you need to know to have knowledge and confidence to prepare for your first trip to Middle Kingdom
Best Things to Do in Chengdu — Top Attractions & Our Favorites
Quick Summary 🗺️ Location: Sichuan Province, southwest China ⏱️ Ideal Duration: 3–5 days 💲 Budget: $40–$100 per day 🌡️ Best Time: March–May or September–November 🏠 Where to Stay: Chunxi Road / Taikoo Li area 🐼 Known For: Giant pandas, Sichuan cuisine, tea house culture 🎭 Don't Miss: Sichuan Opera face-changing performance The
We Were China Maxxing Before It Was Cool
Everyone on TikTok is suddenly in their "most Chinese time." We've been living ours for three years — with Mandarin lessons, regular trips to China, and a five-year-old who thinks she's Chinese.
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Where to Stay in Hong Kong: Best Hotels & Neighborhoods [2026 Guide]
Your guide to Hong Kong's best neighbourhoods and hotels for every budget — from the harbour views of Tsim Sha Tsui to the local energy of Mong Kok.
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Where to Stay in Harbin: Best Areas and Hotels [2026 Guide]
Tested guide to Harbin's best areas and hotels. Central Street for sightseeing and food, Songbei for the Ice Festival — honest recommendations at every budget from someone who's visited twice.