by Marilyn De Angelis Pennell

Created on: June 10, 2008

THE BEST OF BEIJING 2008
What to See, Where to go, What to do

Are you headed to the Olympic Games or considering a trip to China? About two million visitors are expected in Beijing for the games which. begin on August 8 and run through August 24. Learn more about summer travel to this ancient and intriguing capital

IMAGINING BEIJING:

Beijing is not the largest city in China. It isn't the richest and it isn't the oldest. But a trip to China without a visit to the capital city of Beijing would be to miss the chance to get a glimpse into the heart and soul of China. A journey to this 2,000 year old capital, however brief, will allow you to soak up a sense of how China's past and present are blending to forge a new identity and chart a new course.

But the Beijing in your mind's eye may not be the reality of Beijing as it is today. When you think of Beijing, do you imagine scenes from "The Last Emperor" with courtesans, concubines and eunuchs? Do you hope to see farmers in coolie hats leading water buffalo among sweet green rice paddies? Do you expect to encounter dull grey buildings with "worker bees" wearing blue grey Mao suits and toting the "Little Red Book."

Modern Beijing offers none of these scenes, though its history reflects all this and more. The Beijing of 2008 is spiffing itself up, getting ready to host the world on the international stage of the 2008 Olympic games. If you're headed to Beijing for the games or are just thinking about taking a journey into the heart of the "dragon," as Beijing is sometimes called, you're in for a unique cultural and historical experience.

BEIJING: THE CITY

Though it isn't the largest city in China, Beijing is huge, with about 13 million official residents and two million migrant workers. It is packed with larger than life historical sites and small out of the way alleyways teeming with life.

If you go to Beijing with an open mind and search out its hidden treasures, as well as the grand historical sites, you won't be disappointed. I recommend a blend of both, as a way to get a taste of the historical and cultural grandeur, as well as the simple everyday pleasures

Getting around the city won't be easy, but it can be done. A Chinese-speaking tour guide certainly helps, since English is not widely spoken. If you're a first time visitor, your best bet is to hire a local tour guide. The prices are reasonable and you'll enjoy the city more with someone who knows the lay of the land.

If you do venture out without a guide, you should

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