Beijing
Explore destinations and travel stories
Welcome to Baba Goes China!
I'm Magda β I share authentic family adventures in China, with practical tips and honest reviews to help you plan your own trip.
AS FEATURED 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! π
δ½ ε₯½ 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
βοΈ Detailed destination guides with real family experiences
πΊοΈ Practical itineraries tested with kids in tow
π¨ Honest recommendations for hotels, tours, and activities
π£οΈ Mandarin learning resources for the whole family
π¨ 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
Traveling with Kids
Beijing vs Shanghai: Which Chinese City to Visit First (+ Family Tips)
Beijing or Shanghai β 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 β 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
Plan Your Trip
Latest From the Blog
How to Use DiDi in China
Complete Guide for Foreigners (2025)
Zhaoxing Dong Village, Guizhou: Things to Do, Where to Stay & How to Visit (2026)
Honest guide to Zhaoxing Dong Village, Guizhou β when to go, where to stay, what to do, getting there by train, and whether to DIY or take a tour.
Where to Stay in Wuhan: Best Areas and Hotels (2025)
Best Hotels & Areas Guide 2025
Can You Teach Your Child a Language You Don't Speak? A Parent's Guide
Everything you need to know to set yourself up for success to teach your child a language you are not proficient in
Teaching Kids Chinese: Our Family's Journey & Essential Tips
How we (so far) successfully incorporated Mandarin in our already multilingual home
Where to Stay in Chongqing (Updated for 2026)
Best Areas & Hotels For First-Timers and Families
Into the cold: Chinaβs ultimate winter itinerary
Practical tips for planning an unforgettable winter adventure.
Harbin Ice and Snow Festival (2026)
Everything you need to know to plan your perfect festival experience - festival venues, tickets, recommended hotels and preparing for the cold.
Complete Guide to Harbin: Ice Festival & Things to Do (2026)
Everything you need to know to make the most of your winter visit to one of Chinaβs coldest cities
How to Get from Beijing Capital Airport to City Center (2025)
Complete guide to picking an option that is right for you
Tibet Vista Review: Why We Recommend This Tibet Travel Agent (2025)
Complete Guide & Personal Experience + Exclusive Reader Discount
Zhangjiajie Travel Guide: Plan a Trip to the Avatar Mountains (2026)
Plan a Zhangjiajie trip the smart way β how to split your days between the Avatar Mountains, Tianmen and the glass bridge, where to stay, and what to avoid.