I think it's safe to say that attending the Beijing Olympics might be far different than any other Olympic Games that a person might have the opportunity to travel to.

The main reason is because for centuries China has separated itself from the rest of the civilized world and basically has seldom welcomed foreign visitors with open arms. On the contrary, they did little to welcome visitors who did cross their borders. There was a time when your every move would be scrutinized, and just doing the seemingly "usual" touristy things like taking pictures could get you in hot water.

Needless to say, hosting the Olympic Games is a huge departure from the norm for China. Although they are taking a crash course on how to be civilized and welcoming to foreign visitors, care should be taken when attending the Beijing Olympics. It's hard to imagine that a country that has been so set in it's ways as China has can make a complete about-face and all of a sudden become the perfect host.

It just isn't going to happen.

Traveler's should make a point of not wandering to far away from Olympic orientated events. Most likely it would be a mistake to leave the beaten path and start poking around the surrounding countryside. As welcoming as your new host might seem when it comes to all things Olympic, it might not extend to other avenues.

As much China has decided to become part of the world family, in reality it's going to take a long, long time for them to adjust to being an open society. It's just not something that will happen in 6 or 8 years or by hosting the Olympic Games.

Remember that the Chinese people will not be used to the incredible influx of visitors that an Olympic Games brings along with it. Don't expect the average citizen to be very forth-coming and friendly, because it will be difficult for them to adjust.

Probably one of the best things a person could do before traveling to China is to learn all they can about their hosts. Surf the internet and go to the library and brush up on Chinese customs. Learn their basic customs and a bit about their language. It never hurts to learn how to say "hello," "thank you," or "please," in someone else's language.

It's a sign of respect to take the time to learn about a foreign country and will quite possibly open more doors for you then you ever thought possible.

Learn more about this author, Ray Fauteux.
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