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The government and Beijing residents are trying their best to put the capital city in the best light possible. They want to present a Beijing that is on its best behavior as host of the Games.
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Many Beijingers are aware that exhibiting polite manners in public is part of the responsibility that comes with being a host city for the Olympics. But they also realize their patience and efforts will benefit everybody in many ways.
Mr. Chen, one airport staff said "Some people still ignore traffic lights. But I would say the majority are good. I belong to the majority."
Another benefit the Games are bringing to Beijing is the new restrictions on smoking. NO SMOKING signs now can be seen in most restaurants.
Ms. Hu, one Beijing citizen said "I hate to dine in a foul atmosphere. Without the policy, it would be difficult to keep people from smoking in public places. Now I feel much more comfortable."
The non-smoking policy has also been implemented among the city's 70 thousand taxis.
Mr. Qin, one taxi driver said "Smoking passengers put out their cigarettes before they get in. I don't have to tell them. We should all be well mannered, especially during the Olympics."
"What would you do if you want to smoke?"
"I stop the cab and smoke outside the car."
The organizers of the Beijing Summer Games are also concerned about encouraging well mannered spectators at the Olympic events -- who are to be on their best behavior at all times.
Cheerleaders have been trained to use positive slogans and gestures to encourage spectators to mind their manners while they watch the events.
BOCOG officials say the Beijing Olympics are a perfect opportunity for local residents and visitors from outside of town to abandon bad habits and out-dated customs. But they admit it will NOT be easy to keep the positive momentum to preserve this self-discipline once the global spotlight turns away from the Beijing Olympics.
However, it's said that well begun is half done.
(CCTV August 5, 2008)
