NICE GETAWAY: THE SUMMER PALACE

The Summer Palace is a huge cluster of palaces, temples, and gardens that was used as a refuge by members of the Royal Family in years gone by. Over the years it has survived a variety of attacks and has been renovated several times. Now it is one of China's most overrun tourist attractions and on the day we visited it (a Sunday) it was packed.

The property is dominated by the Kunming Lake, which was enlarged by Emperor Qianlong in the 1700s.

Another dominant feature of the complex is Longevity Hill, a 60 meter-high mount that really lives up to its name (especially when you're climbing it with three little kids).

At the top of the following photo is the Tower of Buddhist Incense, the highest building at the Summer Palace. Other buildings toward the top include the Cloud Dispelling Hall and the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity.

No matter which one you're at, it will offer a great view of the Palace and its surrounding areas.

I could probably fill twenty blogs with photos from the Summer Palace, but I just don't have the time. Instead, I am offering a sampling of the exquisite details that can be found seemingly at every turn.

One of the Palace's most famous features is the Marble Boat. I'm not sure if it works or not.

While a bit overwhelming (and somewhat exhausting), a trip to the Summer Palace is pleasant and rewarding and should be included on every Beijing tourist itinerary.