Arrival in Beijing

We got to Beijing at about 2am on 8/8/08 (local time).  Heavy heat and humidity upon exiting the aircraft.  As we taxied in, we couldn't see much at all because of the thick fog-like sand/dust/smog!  Thick air, heavy heat...

Beijing has put up lots of beautiful banners and flags along major roads in the city.

Another interesting feature on the freeways is the new "Olympic lane" - the far left lane on the freeways is reserved exclusively for vehicles with an Olympic pass - cars on official Olympic business, etc.  

In hotel now . . . looking forward to this adventure.