Amy found the coolest hostel so far in Beijing: Qian Men Hostel. Beats even the one I had 5 years ago. That one was an old double courtyard building (I assumed teared down by now). This one is a double courtyard building with multiple floors and great common area.
Beijing, Forbidden Palace, Again. 
Still great, though, and this time way less people. Below Tian’anmen Square, a whole part of the city I remembered (including my former hostel) is gone. There is now a chick shopping street (Qian Men Ave). Still, most of the character in the surrounding streets is still there.
Also, I managed to loose the replacement sunglasses I bought for the ones I lost in the forbidden palace. Bought another pair (it’s hot and sunny here). Next time I plan a bigger sunglass budget.