The Insider's Guide to Chongqing

By Betsy Burlingame

BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions
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Summary: Living it Up in Chongqing: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Welcome to Chongqing! If you're planning to move to Chongqing, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Chongqing has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Chongqing.

Chongqing, a sprawling city in southwestern China, is known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. There are numerous sites of interest for tourists and locals alike, ranging from ancient temples to modern shopping centers. One of the most famous attractions in Chongqing is the Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 50,000 Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian sculptures dating back to the 7th century. Another popular destination is the Three Gorges Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Yangtze River and the famous Three Gorges Dam.

For those interested in exploring the natural beauty of Chongqing, a visit to the Jinyun Mountain Natural Reserve is a must. This scenic area offers hiking trails, ancient temples, and stunning views of the city. The Hongya Cave is another popular attraction, featuring a series of stilted buildings built into the side of a cliff, offering a unique perspective on traditional Chinese architecture. The Ciqikou Ancient Town is a well-preserved historical area that offers a glimpse into the city's past, with narrow streets, traditional shops, and teahouses.

Chongqing is also home to several modern attractions, such as the Chongqing Science and Technology Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and displays on various scientific topics. The Chongqing Zoo is a popular destination for families, featuring a wide variety of animals, including the beloved giant pandas. For shopping enthusiasts, the Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street is a bustling commercial area with numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Chongqing is diverse and lively, offering a wide range of options for visitors to enjoy. Chongqing is famous for its hotpot cuisine, and one of the most popular hotpot restaurants in the city is Chongqing Cygnet Hotpot, which offers a variety of spicy and non-spicy broths, as well as an extensive selection of ingredients to cook in the hotpot. Another popular hotpot restaurant is Dezhuang Hotpot, known for its unique and flavorful broth.

For those looking for a more international dining experience, Le Méridien Chongqing offers a variety of Western and Asian dishes in a stylish and elegant setting. The 18 Steps Bar is a popular spot for cocktails and live music, featuring a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. For a more laid-back atmosphere, the Nuts Club is a popular bar and live music venue, offering a wide selection of beers and cocktails, as well as regular performances by local and international artists.

Recreational activities in Chongqing are diverse and cater to a wide range of interests. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Eling Park is a popular destination for hiking, jogging, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The park also offers a cable car ride to the top of the mountain, providing stunning views of the city. The Chongqing International Golf Club is a popular spot for golfers, featuring a challenging 18-hole course and a luxurious clubhouse.

For those interested in water sports, the Chongqing Water Sports Center offers a variety of activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and dragon boat racing. The center also hosts regular competitions and events throughout the year. For a more relaxing experience, the Ronghui Hot Springs Resort offers a variety of hot spring pools, spa treatments, and other wellness services, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Chongqing: Making the Most of Life and Connections

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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