Beijing 2008 Olympic Youth Camp Handbook

IV. Introduction to the Beijing 2008 OYC

The OYC will create an opportunity for young people to communicate and learn from each other. Activities will focus on the Olympic experience, cultural exchange, and understanding China. We hope that you will have a fantastic time and cherish the memories forever.

1) Olympic experience: We have developed a rich and exciting programme so that you can experience all aspects of the Olympic Games. You will have a chance to attend the Opening Ceremony, watch Olympic competitions, take part in volunteer activities, learn about the Olympic Games, visit the Olympic Village and tour Olympic venues, among many other activities.

2) Cultural exchange: The OYC is a place for young people to come together under the Olympic flag to share their cultures. We have planned many activities to promote cultural exchange and friendship among the participants around the world. Activities include: youth forums, field trips, cultural evenings, sports and team-building exercises.

3) Understanding China: You will receive a warm welcome in China, a modernizing country rich in tradition. The OYC will give you a chance to learn about China and Beijing and directly experience Chinese culture. You will visit cultural and historical sites, take part in traditional Chinese sports, and tour Beijing.

V. General Information

1) Important Dates

The Camp will take place from August 6 to 17, 2008. You are expected to arrive in Beijing on August 4 or August 5 for sign-in. After the Camp ends, you may extend your stay at the Camp site until noon of August 19, as necessary, depending on your flight schedule. If you arrive before August 4 or depart after August 19, please inform your country's (region's) National Olympic Committee, which will be responsible for your accommodations.

2) Arrival and Departure

We will arrange airport transport services for your arrival and departure. Our staff will meet you at the airport and take you to the Camp site. Upon arrival at the Camp site, you will meet the other campers, and our staff will distribute accreditation cards and help you with registration, check-in and other matters. When you leave Beijing after the camp ends, we will be responsible for taking you to the airport.

3) Camp Location and Accommodations

The Camp site is located at Beijing 101 Middle School (11, Yiheyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China), near the Summer Palace,a world-famous imperial garden, and only ten kilometres from the Olympic Green. The Camp site enjoys a beautiful landscape, convenient transportation, and many facilities for sports and recreation. Four campers will share one room with a bathroom and air-conditioner. You will have access to all the school's facilities, such as the soccer field, basketball courts, volleyball courts, tennis courts, and TV lounges. Computers and internet access will also be available.

4) Telephones, Mail, and Internet Access

Public pay phones will be available for you to call your family. If you want to bring your own mobile phone, please contact your carrier for information regarding its usage in China. If you prefer to subscribe to a local service, which would be the easiest way to make local calls in Beijing, you can buy a SIM card and prepaid phone cards from China Mobile or China Unicom. Please be reminded, however, that you will be requested to switch off or silence your mobile phone on many occasions during the Camp.

Since your stay at the Camp will be short, we suggest that your family and friends do not send you any mail addressed to the Camp. You will of course be allowed to mail postcards from China, and our staff will offer mailing services during the camp. .

You will have access to internet. E-mail will be the most convenient way to keep in touch with your friends and family during the Camp.