Beijing Prepares to Greet English Visitors for Summer 2008 Olympics

As the host city of the 2008 Olympic Games, Beijing is spending the final few weeks of summer fine-tuning its massive Western transformation. In efforts to encourage more English-speaking travelers to the Far East, companies and sponsors in the city have increased their customer service efforts and re-trained all staff members to learn English skills, Western etiquette and customs, and even practice key travel and tourism 'statements' to promote attractions and events around the city. The city is still undergoing some dramatic changes with new buildings, cutting edge technology and innovative media outposts throughout its former antiquated streets.

The 2008 Olympic Games will be held from August 8 – 24 in the city center, and Chinese officials are preparing to manage the crowds. The city itself has undergone a complete transformation with new architecture for the opening and closing ceremonies, renovations at area hotels and restaurants, new shopping and club venues, cleaner subway lines and new buses, and even the modernization of several landmarks and villages scattered throughout the city. The once ancient capital of Beijing has given way to a complete makeover in efforts to boost tourism and accommodate for Western travelers during the Summer 2008 Olympic games.

The modernization efforts have also caused a rapid influx of technology and media projects that have transformed the city from the ground up. Touch screen presentations, internet cafes and innovative transportation options are sprouting up throughout the city. Taxi drivers, hosts at restaurants and hotel staff have all received comprehensive English language training, along with etiquette classes and guidelines for communicating with foreign guests.

From Tiananmen Square to the Great Wall, Beijing has become more than an awe-inspiring historical site. The Summer 2008 Olympics have helped create a modern, trendy and technologically-advanced city that is ready to accommodate the Western traveler for the games – and beyond.