2 Best Sights in China

Following a full-scale overhaul, the former Sands Cotai Central hotel, shopping, and casino complex re-emerged as The Londoner in 2021. Architects reconstructed the exterior to resemble, appropriately, London, complete with a replica of Big Ben along the Cotai Strip. Inside, British rock pumps through speakers as guests flit from venues like the Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill to Churchill’s Table, enjoy retail therapy at 150-plus shops and boutiques, and take selfies with black cabs, double-decker buses, and a replica of a royal carriage. There are five hotels, including The St. Regis, The Londoner, and The Londoner Grand, a high-end “resort within a resort,” not to mention 14 invitation-only suites brought to life by David Beckham and British designer David Collins.

Chairman Mao and the party's favorite spot for sand, sun, and seafood, Beidaihe, (250 km [170 miles] northeast of Beijing) is one of China's few beach resorts (though it's definitely no Bali). This crowded spot is just 2½ hours by train from Beijing Station. Nearly every building in town has been converted to a hotel, and every restaurant has tanks of pick-your-own seafood lining the street.