Buying Fruit And Vegetables At The Beijing Language and Culture University

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Whether you're someone who eats out all the time or prefers to cook your own meals in the kitchen, this post might be of interest. If you're considering coming to study Chinese at the Beijing Language and Culture University, gathering as many tips beforehand is always a good idea - and that's what this blog aims to help you with.

I've already mentioned in previous posts that the on-campus accommodation comes with communal kitchens which allow you to do your own cooking. As such, the question inevitably arises: where should I buy fresh fruit and veg from?

Now, before even arriving in at BLCU, you will know the answer.

BLCU students are spoiled in that the best place to buy fresh fruit and vegetables is actually at the on-campus market just north of Dorm 17. This is on the west of campus and easy enough to find.

The market I'm talking about is fairly small and on the left side of the road, with a few independent stalls inside. Until 2011 it was located a little further along near the travel agency and bicycle repairs, but has since moved to this new location. Older students of BLCU will remember what I'm referring to.

The prices here are just as good as anywhere you will find off-campus and so is the selection. There is no need to haggle as they are not out to trick students - they want your long-term business. For all these reasons along with the convenience of it being on campus, I would recommend you buy your fresh fruit and veg here.

Closer to Dorm 17 and on the opposite side of the road is very small shop which sells fresh fruit all year round. I personally used to buy from here quite a lot and became a recognizable face to the owners who are very nice men (two brothers, I believe). In the end, though, I bought more from the larger stalls that I've already talked about because they were generally a tiny bit cheaper and also sold all the vegetables I needed.

One good thing about this small fruit shop is that during the summer months they sell baby coconuts cut open with straws in them to drink the milk through. I don't remember seeing the bigger market selling these, so perhaps that's on advantage this place has to offer. Of course, it may have changed by now, but something to consider all the same.

Take a look at both these places for yourself and then make up your own mind. It may be that the prices are almost the same and you prefer the look of the fruit at the smaller shop the the vegetables at the bigger market. Whatever the case, it's nice to know that you're not paying higher prices just because it's on the BLCU campus, so you can have some peace of mind in that regard!

Why not to buy fruit and vegetables at supermarkets

I would generally advise you to avoid buying fruit and vegetables from supermarkets. Why? Basically because they aren't as fresh and are kept on the shelf for longer. Also, the prices are typically quite a bit higher.

My recommendation would be that if you can get to an outdoor market instead of a supermarket, go for it.

Some people may feel that the hygiene standards are better in supermarkets and I would generally agree. But when it comes to fruit and veg I really never noticed any difference. In my one year stay at BLCU I never had a problem with the produce from the outdoor markets and doubt you will either. In both cases, you should still be washing it all before consuming.

This, then, is the short post on the issue of where to buy fresh fruit and veg during your time at BLCU. Maybe I've not said all that much, but I hope I've at least given you a definite answer on the topic.

Where do you think is the best place to buy fruit and veg around BLCU? Would you agree with what I've said? Please leave your thoughts and questions in the comments section below.

One last thing...

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