Alexandra Pillsbury: Beijinger, Born and Bred

Just like us, Alexandra Pillsbury was born in Beijing ten years ago and she’s lived here all of her life. She was kind enough to talk to the Beijinger and tell us what a real 10-year-old thinks of our city.

Most people think Beijing has changed a lot in the past ten years. In your opinion, what’s been the biggest change?
The number of people in the city.

Do you like living here? Would you prefer to live anywhere else?
It would be nice if there were more blue-sky days and less pollution, but, yes, I like living here. I would prefer to live in Orillia, Ontario, Canada, where my granny lives.

Do you get nostalgic for the good ol’ days?
I miss the snow – it seems like we used to have more snow in Beijing.

What’s the earliest thing you remember about Beijing?
I remember when we lived on Fensiting Hutong. There was a friendly parking guy [at the Hebei Fandian] who gave me a puzzle – maybe it was my birthday.

Have you ever read our magazine?
I’ve looked through it – especially when there’ve been photos of my friends in it.

What’s your favorite restaurant in Beijing?
Haidilao hot pot. I like the play area and the staff are very kind while you’re waiting. They give you snacks and games. I recommend the tomato broth and the quail eggs.

What do you do for nightlife?
Watch movies and read books. My favorite movie is Stardust and my favorite book is A Wrinkle in Time.

What’s the most exciting thing that’s happened in Beijing in the past ten years?
When all the traffic and pollution stopped during the Olympics. And when the Olympics happened.

Your tenth birthday’s coming up in November. What gift do you want to get this year?
Thank you for asking. I would like to get some new art supplies and a bike that fits me.

Our magazine was born at the same time as you. What gift do you think our magazine should get for its tenth birthday?
Two things: a birthday card and a big brunch for all the staff.

If you had to explain Beijing to somebody in three words, what words would you choose?
Exciting, tasty, cool.

Click here to see the October issue of the Beijinger in full.

Photo: Adam Pillsbury