Beijing is one of the best destinations for international tourists
1: It has over 1000 years of history and was the capital for China for nearly 800 years. (thus many historical sites)
2: It is easily accessable with direct flights to and from every part of the world.
3: It is the host city for the 29th Summer Olympic Game which means significant infrustructure improvements such as roads, signs in English, cleaness, English speaking ability among the locals,
Renee said,
June 25, 2008 @ 7:02 am
Is this a sales pitch? I love Beijing, too, but to be fair, I think you should add these tips for international photographers:
1. Horrible air pollution aggravated by sandstorms (rarely a clear day)
2. The beautiful hutongs have all but disappeared, leaving Soviet-era block houses, modern monstrocities, and mostly fascist style architecture (oh, and a few ostentatious monuments)
3. English speaking locals are few and far between, especially if you plan on getting away from the central tourist attractions
4. For journalistic photographers: Avoid politically sensitive spots during politically sensitive times and anniversaries. Avoid politically sensitive people or risk police harrassment.