Let's get this party started!

In the last week, I have noticed a great transformation in this city! When we arrived on July 2, Beijing was still sorting out the final kinks before spectators arrived for the Olympic Games. In the last 7 days, this city has really started acting like the host of this summer's Olympic Games.

At 2pm yesterday (Saturday), three new subway lines FINALLY opened. The original open dates were set for 6-8 months ago. The Suzhoujie station is only a 5 minute walk from our hotel, which can get us to any point in the city for 2RMB (30 cents). I used to rely on taxis or the bus to get me to the other closest subway station--15 minutes away. As Ted mentioned earlier this week, our Olympic accreditation passes allow us to travel the subway for free, a welcomed perk :). The three new lines include the Olympic line (it runs under the Olympic Green), the airport line (fast-speed train from downtown Beijing to terminal 2 and 3) and our commuter line. In the past two years, Beijing went from two subway lines to 7 (with two more opening....???)
The city has also put up billboards and signs in the middle of its' highways with the Olympic logos and "One World, One Dream" slogan. Tourists are obviously here for one reason, but Beijing wants to remind its people that they must be on the best behavior too! Recently, the Chinese government published rules for its people to stand in lines (my favorite) and drive better. Better...I thought safer would've been a better word :)
(Photo Courtesy Larry Powell)

Similar to past games, Beijing designated one lane in every direction, on every major highway as an "Olympic Lane" to transport any dignitaries, athletes or volunteers to and from the Games quicker. The lanes were painted last weekend with the Olympic Rings. I tried taking pictures while we were in our bus, but the pictures didn't turn out.

Today is the day all Beijingers haven't been looking forward to--the start to more regulations on their mobility. Today is July 19, which means that all odd-numbered cars (determined by the last digit on their license plate) can drive. Tomorrow, July 20, all even-numbered cars can drive. MSNBC reports there are 3.3 million cars on Beijing's roads, and removing half each day will cut down on emissions, but more importantly traffic!

As I glance out my window, the sky is slightly hazy with a few clouds. Yesterday, we had bright Carolina-blue skies with big fluffy clouds--made it feel like home!

Have a great weekend,

Mark