Population: 11 million
Principal Dialect: Mandarin
Geography: Beijing resides in Northeast China on flat land strategically close to hills and mountains (in the North, Northwest and West) as well to the plains and the sea. Oddly, Beijing is one of the few major cities in China that does not lie on a major river.
Climate: Hot, humid summers. Average temperature in July is 80. Dry, cold winters. Average temperature in January is 25.
Attractions: Tian'anmen Square, The Forbidden City, The Great Wall, Temple of Heavan, Summer Palace and the Beijing Zoo.
Interesting note: Founded in 700 B.C., it is the political, educational and cultural center of the country and the host of the upcoming
2008 Summer Olympics.
2008 Summer Olympics: Free online guide providing travelers insight into slightly off-the-beaten-path destinations around burgeoning Beijing – destinations that are near Olympic venues. Whether Beijing travelers have 60 minutes or six hours to spare between Olympic events, this Globus family of brands Insider’s Guide will help them get a local look at both the city and the Chinese culture.
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