The forbidden city is opening up

A visit abroad is something to look forward to but a visit to China is something else. Because one has heard so much about how the country used to be. Because of the language issues. Because of the rich cultural heritage China is known for. Because of the similarities the countries share. And the rivalry.

At first sight, the city is a lot of concrete and construction is happening all around. Not very different from the Indian cities one would think.But Beijing has one bigger reason to have so much construction activity happening than just real estate boom. It's hosting the 2008 Olympics and one can see the whole city is shaping up for it. And why not? It's not often that one gets to be the host to the best athletes of the world. And preparation for the Olympics also means that Beijing has to become increasingly world-friendly. And it is.

Visit to the Tianmen Square was definitely the highlight of my Beijing trip - memories of that young man standing against the gigantic tank during the student revolution of 1989 coming back again and again. The issue might have been taboo a few years back but my Chinese hosts seemed more open about it. The Square itself is a huge open area teeming with tourists – no signs of the restricted place it once used to be. While I couldn’t get inside the forbidden city (the palace of the Ming Dynasty) – it was very late when we went there – the majestic aura of the place was palpable.

My host told me that Beijing is definitely more traditional and has more cultural tales to narrate than Shanghai. And invited me to spend at least 5 days to look around Beijing, including the Great Wall. I would definitely like to be back. 2008 Olympics perhaps!