What do you think of the Beijing Olympics? Of China? And of Chinese People and Culture?

Question

I am looking for first hand encounters, of personal experiences from people who have been to China and attended the Games--particularly from people who have been to China for the first time...

Answer 1

Th egames were awesome, at the Olympic Green the "Bird's Nest", "Water Cube" and National Indoor Stadium were breathtaking.

The atmosphere was great as I attended the finals for  Women's 10 m Synchronised diving, finals for Women's Artistic Gymnastic team, finals for Womens' Artistic Gymnastic All Round individual and  baseball game.

There was certainly an excitement and air of pride for the Chinese people everywhere who were proud to showcase the long history. With the opening ceremony, it was very apt which showed a glimpse of Chinese history.

Answer 2

I thought the Olympics, and the Chinese people put on a great show.

The Chinese took great pride in the Olympics. There were countless volunteers everywhere, and they did not get anything for their work.

Not even a free meal.

It seems every Chinese had a camera and they were taking their  pictures at the events.

The city was clean, no pollution, the traffic was not too bad, I understand they took half the cars off the streets.

Everyone was friendly.

They smiled, and nodded their heads, they were helpful, even the ones who did not speak English.

I saw all of the tourist sights and had a good time.

There were no problems at customs entering or leaving, and the security at the Olympics and great wall, etc. was polite also.  

Answer 3

On the Olympics, I think it is not the event to choose as a fight with China over their human rights records or other disputes. There are 355 other days out of the year and plenty of other opportunities to do that.

On the Chinese, they are still communist, have poor human rights not just in the communism but in their cultural tradition. In our diplomacy should continue to regard them as a competitor and some-time partner (in, for instance, dealing with N. Korea) but not as a friend. Nonetheless, they have a rich history, culture, art, are an industrious and ambitious people. How can you not admire that?  

Answer 4

Well....I wasn't in the olympics but i watched it while i took a tour to China. The reason for the olympics is to unite the countries and have fun, but there is no such thing this year. Competitive is all I see! It use to mean friendship but now it is like a contest to "say" which is the best country but it shouldnt be that way!