Francois Magni is a manager for Deloitte & Touche. He has travelled extensively throughout China and has been based in Beijing for three years—and counting.

Which area of the city do you live in and why?

I live in Dongcheng District, which is in the old part of the city. There is more of a Beijing feel to the place and there is quick access to the bar district and also Hou Hai Lake area. A more relaxed pace of life after leaving the office!

What were your first impressions?

Well, to be honest, I didn’t really know what to expect, even after having done a lot of reading on the city. I guess the word gigantic comes to mind—the city seems to be endless.

How does Beijing compare to other major Chinese cities?

Beijing still has that ‘old’ feeling, especially when walking around the hutongs. Luckily the pollution is getting better every month. I feel that Beijingers are more friendly and honest, and they enjoy life.

When you have visitors, where do you bring them?

I usually bring my friends or visiting colleagues to Li Qun restaurant. There’s nothing like Peking duck in a traditional courtyard restaurant. Afterwards, I would usually take them down to Bar Street to witness the chaos of Chinese bars, or perhaps the tranquillity of lakeside café-bars at Hou Hai.

What do you miss most when you leave Beijing?

Easy: Peking duck! I also miss the pace of life, which can range from the frenetic to the idle. And you can choose which ever one you want.