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Top World Travel Destinations for James Bond Fans

Step into 007’s world with thrilling destinations from London to Jamaica, the Swiss Alps to Venice. Live the Bond lifestyle with intrigue, elegance and adventure!

Daniel Craig, in a tux as James Bond, points a gun

There’s nothing quite like stepping into the world of James Bond. Fast cars, exotic locales and danger at every turn — all served with a side of impeccable style. If you’ve ever dreamed of living the 007 lifestyle, it’s time to trade your office chair for an Aston Martin and embark on a globe-trotting adventure that’s shaken, not stirred.

And if you’re feeling as daring as Bond himself, why not raise the stakes with a live bet on a cricket match while soaking up the excitement of these iconic locales? After all, it’s about embracing risk in style. 

So, channel your inner secret agent, pack your sharpest tuxedo (or your slinkiest evening gown), and prepare to walk in the footsteps of the world’s most iconic spy. The mission? Pure, unadulterated thrills. 

Locations You Can’t-Miss Out On as a 007 Lover

The James Bond universe oozes glamorous and cuts across many parts of the world. Here are the most iconic Bond locales for any true 007 enthusiast.

The London skyline with the Thames River

London, England: Bond’s Command Center

If Bond has a home, it’s London — a city that pulses with sophistication, intrigue and the kind of drama that only 007 can handle. The British capital has played a starring role in the franchise, serving as both Bond’s operational base and the scene of some unforgettable action.

Imagine walking along the Vauxhall Bridge, the MI6 headquarters towering beside you. It’s not hard to imagine Bond himself striding through those doors on a top secret mission. This is the fortress of espionage, immortalized in films like Skyfall and Spectre

Your Mission

A bald bartender mixes a cocktail at Dukes Bar in London

Raise a glass at Dukes Bar. Ian Fleming famously crafted Bond’s love for martinis here. Sip on their signature Vesper Martini and toast to a life of espionage and elegance.

A red speedboat for tourists zooms along the Thames river toward London Bridge

Cruise the Thames. Re-create the adrenaline of The World Is Not Enough with a speedboat ride along the river, cutting through the heart of London’s iconic skyline.

The staircase hall at London's National Gallery

Visit the National Gallery. Channel your inner Bond as you wander through this cultural treasure, featured in Skyfall, where art meets espionage in a perfectly British fashion.

A red bus zooms past the classical facade of Whitehall in London, England

Explore Whitehall’s secrets. Peek into the corridors of power, imagining the hushed briefings Moneypenny and Q must have held in these historic buildings.

London doesn’t just set the stage for Bond’s adventures; it’s the pulse of his world. From the refined luxury of Mayfair to the gritty backstreets of Southbank, every corner feels like it’s holding a secret. And with every sip of your martini and step through these storied streets, you’ll find yourself asking, “What’s my next move?”



People hang out on a restaurant's stone ledge above turquoise water in Jamaica

Jamaica: Bond’s Birthplace and Paradise

Jamaica is where the legend was born. Fleming penned all 14 of his Bond novels at Goldeneye Estate, a dreamy hideaway nestled along the island’s stunning coast. It’s no wonder Jamaica became Bond’s cinematic playground, featured in classics like Dr. No and Live and Let Die.

Your Mission

One of the waterfront cottages at Goldeneye Resort in Jamaica

Stay at Goldeneye. Luxuriate in Bond’s birthplace, where you can soak up the very atmosphere that inspired Fleming. Take in the sea views, sip a cocktail and perhaps dream up your own espionage tale.

Aerial view of the bay at James Bond Beach in Jamaica

Explore James Bond Beach. This secluded slice of paradise is where Bond’s adventures began. Paddle in the clear waters or relax under swaying palms, imagining your next mission.

Turquoise water and rock formations in the Green Grotto in Jamaica

Dive into the Green Grotto Caves. Journey into this labyrinth of caves, rich with history and intrigue, and relive the villainous schemes of Live and Let Die.

A couple sits on barrels outside the Appleton Estate Rum Factory in Jamaica

Enjoy a rum tasting. Jamaica’s rum is as iconic as Bond’s martini. Head to the Appleton Estate for a tasting that pairs perfectly with the island’s spy-worthy charm.

Jamaica inspired Bond’s world. Here, luxury meets intrigue, and every sunset feels like a cinematic finale. So put on your best Bond attitude, step onto the sand and live like 007 — if only for a moment.

The Hagia Sophia at sunset in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul, Turkey: Where East Meets West and Espionage Thrives

Istanbul is a city of dualities, where the East kisses the West, and the ancient blends seamlessly with the modern. It’s no surprise this atmospheric metropolis has become a favorite Bond playground, featured in From Russia With Love and Skyfall. With its bustling bazaars, mysterious underground hideouts and breathtaking waterways, Istanbul is a place where intrigue is always just around the corner.

Your Mission

Red and white arches and lines of stalls inside the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey

Explore the Grand Bazaar. Lose yourself in this sprawling market of winding alleys and hidden treasures. Keep an eye out for mysterious strangers — after all, this is where Bond did some of his finest shadowing.

Columns, arches and turquoise-lit water in the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul

Visit the Basilica Cistern. Walk beneath the city in this haunting underground world, imagining yourself escaping danger like Bond and Tatiana. The eerie atmosphere feels like it was designed for espionage.

Large tourboats cruise the Bosphorus, with seagulls flying above

Take a Bosphorus cruise. Glide through the waters separating Europe and Asia, just as Bond might have done to evade a high-stakes pursuit. The views of Istanbul’s skyline will leave you as breathless as any car chase.

Inside the Hagia Sophia, with Arabic writing in large circles

Stop by the Hagia Sophia. Once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum, this architectural marvel is as layered as Bond himself. Stand in its quiet majesty and soak in centuries of history and mystery.

Istanbul is a city where every corner feels alive with secrets and stories. It’s no wonder Bond couldn’t resist its pull. Whether you’re bargaining for treasures in the bazaar or soaking in the view from the Bosphorus, you’ll feel as if the next twist in the plot is just waiting for you to discover it. Adventure doesn’t just happen in Istanbul — it’s built into its very fabric.

Green valleys with cabins and snow-topped peaks in the Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps: Bond’s Snow-Covered Playground

Few places in the world capture the high-stakes drama of a Bond movie quite like the Swiss Alps. These snow-covered peaks have been a favorite backdrop for 007’s most daring escapades, offering equal parts adrenaline and breathtaking beauty. Featured prominently in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service and Goldfinger, the Alps bring Bond’s signature mix of luxury and danger to life.

Your Mission

The winding Furka Pass road through the Swiss Alps

Drive the Furka Pass. Put yourself in the driver’s seat and retrace Bond’s tire-squealing route. The sharp turns and jaw-dropping vistas make this one of the most thrilling roads in the world.

Piz Gloria restaurant at the top of the Schilthorn

Dine at Piz Gloria. Perched atop the Schilthorn, this revolving restaurant isn’t just a Bond filming location — it’s a full-on cinematic experience. Feast on the views, and don’t forget to toast with a martini as you imagine outsmarting Blofeld.

A skier skis the Swiss Alps

Ski the legendary slopes. Take to the pristine snowfields where Bond himself might have carved tracks. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-timer, the Swiss Alps deliver thrills worthy of a 007 mission.

The snaking Rhone Glacier in the Swiss Alps

Visit the Rhône Glacier. Seen in Goldfinger, this icy wonderland offers a chilling dose of Bond-worthy drama and the perfect setting for an epic photo op.

The Swiss Alps embody everything Bond stands for: style, danger and a touch of the extravagant. Whether you’re carving down a mountainside or sipping cocktails with the peaks as your backdrop, this is one destination where you can truly live the Bond dream. Here, every moment feels like a high-stakes mission — and every scene, a masterpiece.

View of Venice at sunset, with buildings lining the canal, filled with gondolas and other boats

Venice, Italy: City of Romance and Intrigue

Few places in the world can match Venice’s blend of romance and mystery, making it the perfect stage for Bond adventures. Featured in Casino Royale and Moonraker, Venice’s timeless charm has hosted everything from dramatic escapes to deadly showdowns.

Your Mission

Gondolas in a canal in Venice, Italy

Glide through the canals. Take a gondola ride, but keep your eyes sharp — after all, danger can lurk even in the city’s most beautiful corners. Channel Bond’s suave coolness as you explore Venice’s iconic waterways.

St. Marks Basilica and square filled with visitors in Venice, Italy

Visit Saint Mark’s Square. Stand where Bond’s gondola hovercraft made its dramatic entrance in Moonraker. The grandeur of this square, framed by centuries-old architecture, will have you feeling like the star of your own movie.

Exterior of the Palazzo Pisani along a canal in Venice, Italy

Explore the Palazzo Pisani. Step into cinematic history at this stunning Venetian palace, the setting of a fierce fight scene in Casino Royale. Its regal halls hold secrets and stories worthy of a spy.

Alley with arched entrances in Venice, Italy

Discover hidden corners. Venture into Venice’s labyrinthine alleys and quiet campos. Much like Bond’s missions, the city’s best finds are off the beaten path and shrouded in mystery.

Venice sets a stage where romance and danger waltz together under moonlit skies. Whether you’re sipping wine in a piazza or navigating the canals with Bond-like precision, this city offers intrigue in every shadow and thrill in every reflection. 

The  skyline of Hong Kong and its harbor

Hong Kong: The Neon Jungle of Danger and Deception

Hong Kong is a city of contrasts: Sleek skyscrapers rise alongside bustling street markets, and neon lights illuminate ancient traditions. It’s no wonder Bond found himself entangled in its electric energy in The Man with the Golden Gun. With its dazzling skyline and shadowy alleys, Hong Kong is a place where luxury and danger collide — a perfect playground for 007.

Your Mission

Lights trail past the facade of the Peninsula Hotel in Hong Kong

Stay at the Peninsula Hotel. Walk in Bond’s footsteps at this luxurious landmark. Order a martini at the rooftop bar, gaze out at the skyline and soak in the glamour of a classic Bond setting.

The Star Ferry cruises across Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong, past skyscrapers

Take the Star Ferry. Cruise across Victoria Harbour, imagining Bond slipping through the waters on a covert mission. The city’s skyline at sunset is as breathtaking as any Bond girl.

Neon signs light up a street in the Kowloon district of Hong Kong

Explore Kowloon’s streets. Wander the vibrant markets and alleyways where the city’s pulse beats the loudest. Channel your inner Bond as you navigate the chaos, always alert for the unexpected.

The Peak Tram at a station at night in Hong Kong

Ride the Peak Tram. Ascend to Victoria Peak for a bird’s-eye view of the city. The dizzying heights and sweeping vistas will have you feeling like Bond himself, strategizing your next move.

The Symphony of Lights, with white light beaming out of the skyscrapers of Hong Kong, seen across the water

Experience the Symphony of Lights. Watch the city’s skyline come alive in a dazzling light show — a modern spectacle that feels like it was made for a Bond film.

In Hong Kong, the line between luxury and danger blurs, creating a city as dynamic and unpredictable as Bond himself. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at a rooftop bar, navigating bustling markets or cruising the harbor, every moment feels charged with possibility. Here, the stakes are always high, and the thrill is never far behind.

Sean Connery as James Bond by river with stone bridges

007 Travel: A License to Thrill

These destinations let you step into the world of Bond, James Bond — where every turn promises intrigue, elegance and a dash of danger. But they’re not just for hardcore Bond fans; they’re for anyone craving a mix of high-octane adventure and cinematic charm.

So, pack your sharpest tuxedo, order your martini shaken, not stirred, and get ready to use your passport as a license to thrill. Whether you’re scaling the peaks of the Swiss Alps or gliding through Venice’s canals, every moment will feel like your own 007 mission.

Because for Bond — and now, for you — the world is never enough. But it’s one hell of a good place to start. –Ibrahim Oluwu


Chinese Zodiac Explained

What’s your spirit animal on the Chinese calendar? Find out what your horoscope signs mean — and who you’re compatible with.

In the Chinese zodiac, every year is paired with one of 12 animals that determine your personality traits and compatability in love

In the Chinese zodiac, every year is paired with one of 12 animals that determine your personality traits and compatability in love

I’ve always been skeptical of Chinese astrology. I have my doubts about Western astrology as well, but I find it easier to believe that people born within the same month share some overall characteristics than people within an entire year possessing similar traits.

Then again, maybe it’s just because I was born in the unflattering-sounding Year of the Rat. You can tell me how awesome it is to be a Rat, but I’ll never be convinced, when I could have been something rad like a Dragon or a Tiger.

The sign of your birth year shapes your destiny, including your personality and whom you should marry.

Despite my skepticism, Chinese astrology has been around in some form for 3,000 years, and many scholars think its roots trace back to antiquity.

 

Origins of the Chinese Zodiac

There are 12 animal signs, determined by what year you were born. According to legend, Buddha summoned all the animals to come to him before he left the Earth. Only 12 came to bid him farewell. He named a year after each creature in the order they arrived: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep (also called Goat and sometimes Ram), Monkey, Rooster (aka Cock), Dog and Pig.

Another popular tale says that the Jade Emperor, a representation of the first Taoist god, held a race. The Rat won by riding on the back of the Ox and hopping off to cross the finish line first. The Pig, meanwhile, stopped to eat and came in last.

The sign of your birth year shapes your destiny, including your personality and whom you should marry.

As counterintuitive as it seems, you’re supposed to actually have bad luck when your year rolls around. The best way to prevent this is to wear something red — and because you should be doing so all year long, maybe try a bracelet.

The Chinese have a saying about their zodiac: “This is the animal that hides in your heart.” Guess I have to accept there’s a Rat in mine. –Wally

 

rat.jpg

THE RAT

“Wisdom without industriousness leads to triviality.”

Years include: 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020

Characteristics: intelligent, adaptable, quick-witted, charming, popular with the opposite sex, artistic, creative, generous, hard-working, perfectionists, highly judgmental, do well in business, easily angered, gossipy, thrifty with money

Compatible with: Dragon, Monkey and Ox

ox.jpg

THE OX

“Industriousness without wisdom leads to futility.”

Years include: 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021

Characteristics: Loyal, reliable, thorough, strong, reasonable, determined, good leaders, bull-headed, eccentric, bigoted, fierce tempers, don’t speak much but eloquent when they do, easy-going, hate to fail or be opposed

Compatible with: Snake, Rooster and Rat

tiger.jpg

THE TIGER

“Valor without caution leads to recklessness.”

Years include: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022

Characteristics: Enthusiastic, courageous, ambitious, leaders, confident, charismatic, sensitive, tendency to go overboard, fight for causes they believe in, short-tempered, not good with authority, indecisive, suspicious

Compatible with: Horse, Dragon and Dog

rabbit.jpg

THE RABBIT

“Caution without valor leads to cowardice.”

Years include: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023

Characteristics: Trustworthy, modest, diplomatic, sincere, sociable, caretakers, sensitive, sentimental, snugglers, articulate, talented, ambitious, virtuous, have excellent taste, admired, trusted, financially lucky, gossips but generally kind, seldom lose their temper, never back out of a contract, good gamblers (though they seldom do)

Compatible with: Sheep, Pig and Dog

dragon.jpg

THE DRAGON

“Strength without flexibility leads to fracture.”

Years include: 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024

Characteristics: Lucky, flexible, eccentric, imaginative, artistic, spiritual, larger than life, quick-witted, charming, fun, passionate, healthy, energetic, short-tempered, stubborn, honest, brave, inspire confidence and trust, compassionate — letting others take advantage of them

Compatible with: Rat, Snake, Monkey and Rooster

snake.png

THE SNAKE

“Flexibility without strength leads to compromise.”

Years include: 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025

Characteristics: Philosophical, organized, intelligent, intuitive, elegant, attentive, decisive, psychic, want to give and receive unconditional love, say little, possess great wisdom, never need to worry about money, vain, selfish, stingy, self-reliant, calm on the surface but intense and passionate inside, good-looking, have marital problems because they’re fickle

Compatible with: Ox and Rooster

horse.jpg

THE HORSE

“Forging ahead without unity leads to abandonment.”

Years include: 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026

Characteristics: Adaptable, loyal, courageous, ambitious, intelligent, adventurous, strong, independent, free spirits, great work ethic, natural leaders, popular, cheerful, good with money, perceptive, talk too much, have a weakness for the opposite sex, impatient, like entertainment and are OK with large crowds, rarely listen to advice

Compatible with: Tiger, Dog and Sheep

sheep.jpg

THE SHEEP/GOAT/RAM

“Unity without forging ahead leads to stagnation.”

Years include: 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027

Characteristics: Tasteful, crafty, warm, elegant, charming, intuitive, sensitive, calm, extremely gentle and loving, possess quiet strength, elegant, artistic, shy, pessimistic, confused, deeply religious, passionate, well off, wise

Compatible with: Rabbit, Pig and Horse

monkey.jpg

THE MONKEY

“Changeability without being constant leads to foolishness.”

Years include: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016

Characteristics: Quick-witted, charming, lucky, adaptable, bright, versatile, lively, confident, great sense of humor, skillful, flexible, inventive, too agreeable, impatient, often abandon projects partway through, look down on others, have excellent memories, strong-willed, their anger cools quickly

Compatible with: Dragon and Rat

cock.jpg

THE ROOSTER/Cock

“Being constant without changeability leads to woodenness.”

Years include: 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017

Characteristics: Honest, energetic, intelligent, flamboyant, flexible, diverse, confident, extravagant, attention-seekers, progressive, talented, loners, don’t take failure well, have difficult relationships, outspoken, they think they’re right — though they usually are, seem adventurous but are timid, selfish, emotions and fortunes swing from high to low

Compatible with: Ox, Snake and Dragon

dog.jpg

THE DOG

“Fidelity without amiability leads to rejection.”

Years include: 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018

Characteristics: Loyal, sociable, courageous, diligent, steady, lively, adaptable, smart, trustworthy, protect those they love, put others’ needs above their own, can keep secrets, stubborn, care little for money but somehow always have it, cold-hearted, distant, sharp-tongued, good leaders

Compatible with: Horse, Tiger and Rabbit

pig.jpg

THE PIG

“Amiability without fidelity leads to immorality.”

Years include: 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019

Characteristics: Honorable, determined, optimistic, sincere, sociable, altruistic, humanitarians, studious, stick to goals, quiet, well-informed, have few friends, kind, intuitive

Compatible with: Rabbit and Sheep


Sources: Building Beautiful Souls, China Highlights, Goway Travel, Whats-Your-Sign.com

More Takes on What the World Thinks About a Trump Presidency

Is there any country that’s pleased with the results of the 2016 U.S. presidential election? (Besides Russia, that is.)

Donald Trump is pumped he won the U.S. presidential election. But how does the rest of the world feel?

Americans are perhaps more divided than we’ve ever been since the Civil War. Donald Trump won the electoral college and therefore the presidency — despite the fact that more people actually voted for Hillary Clinton.

But what does the rest of the world think about President-elect Trump? I reached out to friends who live abroad or who have family in foreign countries. Read Part 1 of their responses here.

The reactions kept coming in. Here’s Part 2. –Wally


Donovan and Kate, Americans living in Qatar

Regarding the local view of That Horrible Thing That Happened:

The initial reaction in Qatar was probably the same as everywhere else: shock. Everyone here went to bed Tuesday night (Doha time) assuming to wake up to a Hillary presidency, and then…that.

Georgetown University Qatar had an Election Morning celebration, featuring the U.S. ambassador and all kinds of red, white and blue décor. She stayed long enough to realize that Trump would win, and the embassy released a tight-lipped statement saying that they would serve the next president as expected; you could hear the tears in the press release.

Several of the universities here had emergency community meetings to address student fears; these are, after all, schools rooted in the U.S. with students here who have been told they won’t be allowed to travel to the U.S.

From an expat perspective, the kind of person who would live in Qatar is not the kind of person who believes the Trump view of the world, and especially the Muslim world, so the last week has been essentially a funeral out here. All we’ve tried to do is ensure that all our coworkers, friends, etc., understand that we’re on their side, and that tens of millions of Americans are, too.

We’ll wake up tomorrow to the call to prayer, and as is tradition, Donovan will have his morning beer in his underwear while hundreds of Muslims pray beneath us. Is that not the ideal we should strive for?

 

RELATED: The Best and Worst Parts of Living in Qatar


Alan from Spain

Showman: That’s the first idea that comes to me when I hear Donald Trump’s name. Probably because I have seen him and his family since I was a kid on E! television or because the first image that comes to my mind is Trump firing people on a TV show where he was “the boss.” He was not nice from what I remember — he is not nice from what he had said on his political campaign.

His campaign was one of the biggest broadcasted shows ever. People that have followed it have been a total part of it: lovers and haters, critics and passionate homophobic-racist-misogynists.

Half of the United States supports Trump, while the other half hates what he stands for

In Spain, we have this kind of political behavior and media. It starts being like soccer or football…Red vs. Blue, yelling at each other without listening a word. Passionate hooligans.

For some of us, the idea of a “politician” like Trump seems like a joke. But it makes sense when you realize that there are governments that are not supporting education. Education is the base of the society, and when you segregate people for their origin since they were born, cut the spending for public schools and teachers, and don’t allow people to have real opportunities to grow, there will be a Donald Trump yelling in representation of “everyone else.”

People in the USA seem to be mad. But without asking questions or trying to figure out what is happening with their system, they blame the disadvantaged — those who are trying to survive in a society that exploits their work and undervalues their skills.

Maybe things will change, when in some circles they start realizing that having a black-skinned president does not make your country less racist.


Heather from England

Basically we have had the same response as the level-headed Americans. It’s a worry for us. But we are still reeling from our own stupid decision about Brexit back in June.

This meme circulated after the U.S. election of Donald Trump and draws a connection between the racism/isolationism/nationalism of the alt-right and Brexit voters.

On the plus side, there have been some lovely shots of the new first lady in a furry bikini on the front pages of the tabloids!


Lynn from Guam

I think Guam’s polls were 75% for Clinton. So most people on Guam favored her over Trump.

The doctor I worked with followed the campaign closely and was in favor of Trump: a businessman who made some bad business decisions, while Clinton was an unethical person who damaged computer systems after a subpoena was served.

There are no protests on Guam at this time against Trump as president of the USA. Our governor is full of support for him and hopes to have a valuable presence with him.

The same doctor says, no they won’t impeach him because he is making fast adjustments (i.e., not eliminating the Affordable Care Act but using parts of it.)

There is a movement that says that the USA is not concerned about the island. We are brown-skinned people who would not weigh in with Trump.

I have not heard about predictions for the next four years. In my mind is great uncertainty: fear of global war, human suffering, lack of food and huge immigration.

Perhaps I should focus on hope, joy, harmony and peace that is here and now. I am not in Syria or Africa and we live a very good life because of Uncle Sam.

Humanity is global, so I can only pray for all people to have the quality of life that I am able to enjoy.


Ivo, a Bulgarian living in the United States

In Bulgaria we are mostly for the Democrats, for Hillary.

We have a prime minister, Boyko Borissov, who reminds me of Trump. He is very frank and authoritative. He was actually the bodyguard of the old communist president who ruled for 45 or so years.


Angie, an American living in China

It is hard to give a good answer to what people think about Trump, as I think you are asking about how locals, meaning a typical Chinese person, feels about the elections, and I don’t think they know/care much. My ayi (housekeeper) hasn’t said anything about it.

The day of the elections at school were interesting, however, but I don’t think representative. The students were obsessed with the elections, and it was hard to get anything else done that day. They seemed to be legitimately surprised at the outcomes, as were the teachers here. I am still at a loss as to how this happened. 

I don’t know any teachers here that were pro-Trump, but there may have been some in hiding. The students we teach are from families who chose to send their kids to a liberal school and have plans to send their kids out of the country for university. These kids have been taught by us teachers, so not surprising they were surprised at the outcome, too. For them it seems like a question of discrimination. One student, a Chinese girl in 10th grade, was worrying about where she was going to go to college now. Some of my 12th graders have voiced concerns about going to the U.S. next year for university. In all honesty, I don’t know if I will be keen to send my daughter Fatima to the U.S. in three years for school.

This election puts China in a position to potentially rule the South China Sea. Some policies are starting to be put in place to limit foreigners and Western education here, so we will see how that goes.

 

RELATED: The Truth About Living in China


BONUS! Nicolás, an editor from Spain, presented us with his take. Trouble is, neither Duke nor I speak Spanish fluently. That being said, we can get the gist, and he seems to put quite a bit of blame on Hillary and her supporters for the rise of Trump.

 

Tal vez, no hayan entendido nada: Hillary, todas esas Hillary políticamente correctas de “izquierda,” les han arruinado literalmente la vida a esa gente (principalmente del interior, pobre, blanco y aislado), liberalizando la economía al extremo y entregándoles a las corporaciones todo lo que han pedido.

Esa gente, ahora trabaja en Walmart de mierda con horarios infinitos, sin derechos y están envenenados de comer basura porque no pueden permitirse alimentarse a base de otra cosa, gracias a que políticos como Hillary subvencionan la industria alimenticia tecnificada en detrimento de industrias rurales.

El americano rural y clase media está desapareciendo.

Los Hillary (su marido, sin ir más lejos), han quitado todo tipo de regulaciones sobre el mercado de valores (Ley Glass-Steagall) que finalmente ha creado una burbuja para tragarlo todo y quedarse con las casas de quienes no han podido pagar sus hipotecas infladas. Han sido los Hillary quienes han contribuido, como nadie, a la deslocalización de empresas que afectan, sobre todo, a la clase media de ciudades del interior. Han sido los Hillary, de Estados Unidos y el mundo, quienes siguen pariendo monstruos por el hartazgo y la traición que ellos mismos representan...

Fue Hillary, por cierto, quien con su aparato Demócrata amañado frenó las aspiraciones de Bernie Sanders, el único que podía parar este desastre.

Ahora díganme: ¿Qué parte del triunfo de Trump no entienden?

 

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The Truth About Living in China

Censorship, crazy drivers and hidden hotspots are all part of teaching in Beijing.

Angie and Steve were having a going-away party. But I had no idea where they were going away to.

Right as we said our goodbyes, I hugged Angie and asked, "By the way, where are you guys moving?"

Everything here is censored.
This is definitely not the place for you if you can’t live without Facebook!

"Lima, Peru" she replied.

"Oh my god! I want to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu so bad!"

"We're planning a trip. You should come!"

"I will!" I declared.

And I did.

And we've followed Angie and Steve around the world, planning trips with them, including the Ankor Wat complex in Cambodia, when they were living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Now they're teaching in Beijing, China, so I decided to see what it's like to be an American expat there. Here’s what Angie had to say. –Wally

What’s your favorite thing about Beijing?

I love the expat community we live in. Living in Beijing can be tough, but we live and work with some really great people.

The facilities at the school we work at are also really amazing, so it's easy to do all you need to do before you go home at the end of the day.

 

Least favorite thing?

Chinese drivers. We aren't allowed to drive a car, which puts us at the mercy of everyone.

I have a little tuk-tuk I drive the five minutes to work every day, and the subway is about a 10-minute drive away, so it's usually okay.

 

What’s the craziest thing the Chinese do?

In general, I find Chinese people to be oblivious. They walk into the street without looking and will run you over if they are lucky enough to have a car.

 

What’s the strangest thing you’ve eaten there?

I'm not a very adventurous eater, so this isn't really the best question for me. We tend to eat mostly at home or at a few of the Western restaurants that are around.

 

Have you experienced any instances of censorship or authoritarian government?

Everything here is censored.

Through my job and the really expensive direct line internet they pay for, I have access to almost anything. But outside of that, you're really limited. I can't even get Google Maps without using a VPN, and that’s hit or miss, depending on the day.

It seems to get worse depending on what is going on. Any special holiday or celebration, and everything will be locked down tight.

This is definitely not the place for you if you can't live without Facebook!

 

Most useful Mandarin phrase?

Duōshǎo qián? How much is that?

If you know that and your numbers, you can at least go shopping!

 

What do the Chinese think about Americans?

I've found my interactions with Chinese people to be mostly positive. The language is a big barrier, but if you can get past that, they're open and friendly.

 

Best secret spot in Beijing?

The hutongs: hidden areas of old Beijing, where you might find a tiny Korean taco fusion joint next door to an old Chinese family doing laundry.