OLYMPICS / Spotlight

My Olympic Life
By Cai Shanshan
Chinadaily.com.cn Staff Writer
Updated: 2008-08-05 16:59

 

 

Jilian R. Redford, 28, American executive at a foreign public relations firm in Beijing

Chinadaily.com.cn: Will you stay in Beijing during the Olympics?

Jilian: I wish I could go to Thailand during the Olympics, since people from everywhere are pouring into Beijing at this moment.

"As long holidays are not allowed, I am going to try to get out of Beijing on the weekends. I might spend a weekend at Beidaihe, or Shanghai or maybe Hong Kong."

With "Bi Yun" (to leave Beijing for other places)becoming a popular expression this summer, many people like Jilian are choosing to leave Beijing to avoid the Olympic rush and also to provide more space for foreign guests.

Xu Jinglei, a 33-year-old Chinese actress-turned-director, has planned a short-term study in the US instead of staying in Beijing .

Xu, in her July 14 blog titled "Cool Photos Announcement" at Sina.com, wrote "Finally I got myself out of busy work. I'm in the US now."

Her words raised people's attention and she is dubbed as the "First Bi Yun Star".

"Lao Xu", Xu's blog at Sina.com, has attracted 100-million hits and is the most popular blog among all the star blogs at the Internet portal.

Hong Kong action superstar Jackie Chan, named as "Olympic Ambassador", welcomed this Olympic lifestyle in an online interview.

"Those leaving Beijing for other cities actually show their support in another ways," he said. "They don't want to cause environmental and transportation burdens to the city. They leave just to make room for foreigners. "

Tom Sun, 27, officer with Chinese Basketball Association

Chinadaily.com.cn: Are there any changes in your life for the upcoming Olympics?

Sun: Now I commute by subway everyday. There is no traffic jam underground. So it's fast. Green travel is the best way to support the Olympics.

"No matter which choice, we should have the green concepts in our minds and make our own efforts. It is enough. Traveling by subway or bicycle increases physical activity. So why not do it?"

Mike Wang, 54, Beijing resident

Chinadaily.com.cn: What's your plan during the Olympics?

Mike: "I'm going to watch events at the sites. I have several tickets for women's basketball. It's my dream to watch Olympic Games in person,, whichever sport is OK. Now my dream is coming true.

"I heard the Olympic torch relay arrives in Beijing on Wednesday. I look forward to welcoming the flame on the street in my new suits specially bought for the Olympics."

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