The Backstreets of Beijing

Before I head off to work today, I'm gonna squeeze in this blog and share my time here in Beijing through my photos.  Sure, everyone knows that China will soon be the next Super-duper Power sometime in the future with its most rapidly-advancing technology and huge population, but it's still nice to know that anyone can still access the old-world grittiness and charm, especially for me after living in the ultra-clean and modernized society of Singapore.  Even though it's freezing here in Beijing, I'm really enjoying the radical climate change and even went running outdoors a few times on the streets in minus degree weather!  Guess I really wanted to chill out here!

Right off the curb and ready for your consumption is fresh (

How Fresh?  I don't think we'll really ever know) octopus, fish, meat, eel, and various fruits and vegetables.

You can seriously go Nutz with stands like these ready to serve you bags of them.

"As long as my bike is there when I'm back, I don't really mind how it's placed."

You can pick your new local mobile number to your liking right off a piece of paper on a wooden board on the street.  Now, that's making it even easier to stay in touch!  Of course, some numbers cost more just because they're supposed to be more auspicious or easy to remember.  Don't worry...that's open to discussion (and negotiation) too.

I just love the sweet buns from this street stand.  Each one costs 0.5 RMB, which is about 7 cents USD.  I've loaded myself up on quite a few of these along with some local Yan Jing beer, which will set you back about 30 cents USD per can.  No wonder everyone likes to drink alcohol at meals.

This is a nearby electronic repair shop specializing in bringing your favorite piece of equipment back to life.  I'm wondering whether I would send my Apple MacBook here to get serviced if it crashed?  Would you??

Of course, the Beijing 2008 Olympics is coming right up, and here's the new stadium being built in the distance.  I think the entire world will be intrigued by the stark contrast between the new and old of China.  Hopefully, you've been entertained with this brief photo commentary of my recent stay in Beijing.

Enjoy and Get Set to Race again later this week!