the Beijinger

Unless you hold a coveted hukou, you’re only ever here "temporarily," but this may change by the end of the year. Beijing authorities have announced a new residence permit system that foreigners can apply for, potentially allowing them access to city services and benefits that otherwise are only open to legal Beijingers.

While you enjoy the long weekend, here are some of the latest things that may be happening in Beijing – from visa issues to toxins in food to the chance of getting a good Wi-Fi connection on your commute.

It’s not news that Beijing’s pollution is a health concern. Fine particulates in the air have been linked to heart disease and cancer, but a recent study suggests there may be a link between the smoggy air we’re breathing and increased risk of obesity and diabetes.

Since the tainted tea and carcinogenic capsules, food scandals have been hitting the headlines non-stop. Beijingers are also bemoaning their car problems, whether they have one or not. Expats may start getting friendly reminders when their visa is up and China is remaking Titanic (the ship, not the movie).

The cars at the Beijing Auto Show 2012 have been revealed in all their Ming vase and dragon-decal glory which means short attention spans have moved from the auto bodies to female bodies. But isn't that sort of the point when you have a bikini-clad model amongst the latest luxury SUVs?

Since we last had a look at what was happening around town, Beijing hasn’t done much other than warm up, but web activity, or lack of it, has been making up for that.  Netizens have reacted to an overseas shooting, an internet blackout and some mischievous monks. Want more? How about an English-language headline from Western media that will leave you scratching your head.

The official holidays for 2012 have finally been announced. Who doesn’t love a mandatory day off? Especially when you're asked to work on the weekends (around a seven-day work week) to “earn” those vacations. If you’re wise, you'll take advantage of the time off for a trip home or beach holiday. Here are the dates so you can start planning.

Mother’s Day is taking over the Sunday brunch scene this weekend. Whether your mother is around or you just want to enjoy an extravagant brunch yourself we've got everything from all-you-can-eat buffets to Sanlitun set menus. Beyond that, are a few additional deals and promotions to check out.

You may have noticed that we've jazzed up our Beijinger.com galleries a little recently – and there are more changes to come. Pictures are now going up faster than ever, so check out our crazy sexy photos from last weekend's Halloween events around town.