Saint-Tropez? No thanks. China's top leaders will be vacationing in this humble seaside town

China’s political elite is reportedly choosing Beidaihe for its annual summer retreat, a low-key seaside town about 186 miles (300 km) east of Beijing, rather than the glitz of Saint-Tropez and a cruise toward Monaco. The tradition, linked to Communist Party leadership, comes with tight secrecy: security typically ramps up in early July, with drones banned and visitors barred from hot-air balloon rides or private boat trips along the coast. In early August, Xi Jinping and close aides usually disappear from public view for around 10 to 14 days, resurfacing mainly for national emergencies. The leaders’ vacation traces back to 1953, when Mao Zedong selected the town.