Strict Rules for Beijing 2008 Olympics

I was listening to the radio show Good Times with Moe on my way to work last Friday and Moe mentioned that China will be implementing strict rules for foreigners visiting Beijing for the Olympics.

They are implementing strict rules so as to prevent pro-Tibet rallies to be staged during the Olympics. An Olympic ticket is not a guarantee that you will be issued a Visa to China as they tightened the visa rules to foreigners who wants to attend the Olympics.

Here are some of the rules:

1. Those with mental and contagious illness are not welcome in China during the Olympics.
2. Visitors cannot go anywhere in China as some parts of the country, like Tibet, will be close for visitors and even to journalists.
3. Display of insulting slogans and banners in strictly prohibited in any sports venue.
4. Foreigners who are staying with Chinese residents in urban areas are required to register at a local police station within 24 hours upon arriving.
5. Those who want to conduct rallies, public gatherings, and parade must secure a permit to a local police first.

Hmm, it doesn’t look like to be a friendly place for foreigners who just wish to attend the 2008 Olympics. If you will ask me, I would rather not go to China during the Olympics to avoid the hassles since they are really implementing strict rules during the Olympics period.