Beijing Games are all about China

China may come out victorious in terms of the number of gold medals won, but the Olympics are much more meaningful than winning athletic events.  These Summer Olympics in 2008 are much more about China.  It truly is China's great coming out party - a celebration of China's aspirations, people, development, and accomplishments.  Sometimes I feel like we hear too much about China this time, and that maybe these Olympics are perhaps far too Sino-centric.  But it really is impressive to see everything that China has accomplished and overcome.  The development of China's eastern cities has been nothing short of a phenomenon.  

As we drive through 2nd Ring Road or the 3rd ring, we are constantly in awe at how Beijing has changed.  Not only are there gorgeous potted flowers and new trees lining the avenues and boulevards, the construction projects are breathtaking.  A good example is this fab office building complex pictured to the left.

2nd Ring Road is what I call "Century City on steroids".  Century City is a gorgeous and revitalized district west of Beverly Hills near Santa Monica Blvd.  Well, Beijing's 2nd Ring Road feels very similar, just on a much bigger scale.  As Paris Hilton would say, "Loves it!"  And at least Beijing was smart enough to redevelop the area with a nice subway system, while L.A. did not do that.

Greetings from Beijing!

Beijing's new Olympic Village

The Olympic Village in Beijing is another remarkable example of the country's growth and excitement to host the world.

In 2002, I worked at the Olympic Village in Salt Lake City.  Those have since become student housing units at the city's University of Utah.  

This Sunday the BOC has just unveiled its gorgeous and expensive Olympic Village (partially pictured above).  

 

The new facilities at the Olympic Village will provide the over 10,000 athletes with Lenovo computer lounges, extravagant eateries, comfortable suites, free haircuts, free Mandarin classes and tutors, as well as beautifully manicured gardens and parks.  It even has a large library and its own fire department.

By the end of 2008, the apartments in the Olympic Village will become available for rent, sale, or lease.  If you're looking to live in Beijing, these are great lofts!