An interview with Camille Levert, Sopexa's China Marketing Director Beijing Office Representative

Camille Levert

Host: You must have a lot of contact with Chinese people in your daily life and work. What's your impression of them?

Camille Levert: I've gotten a very good impression from Beijing locals both times I've come to China. When I first came in 1995, I felt the people were kind and friendly. I really like Beijing. Take for example the typical foreigner's experience. If I needed help, if I get lost on an outing for example, whoever I turn to for help will patiently give me directions. I think every foreigner would agree with me here.

Host: Just now you mentioned that you liked the Drum Temple and the Lama Temple, both of which are examples of ancient architecture. Recently many new Olympic venues have been built, which do you like best?

Camille Levert: Apart from the Drum Temple and the Lama Temple that I just mentioned, I also think there are a lot of new buildings that have novel features. From an architectural design perspective, I think SOHO in Jianwai is a place that gives me inspiration. I used to work there. These days I wish I could go see it more often so that I can get more inspiration. "The Place" (世贸天阶) is also an important building. The 250m long, 30 m wide "Skyscreen" is new and stunning. Our French Food Association often organizes activities there. Women love to shop and Beijing has a lot of large malls these days. I like going to Shinkong Place on the weekends.

Host: Of all the new Olympic venues, which do you like best?

Camille Levert: I like the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube, which, from a design perspective, are modern and fashionable. I like photography. I haven't had a chance to see the buildings from the inside yet, but I've taken pictures of them from the outside. I hope I get a chance to experience the inside someday.

Host: I think you will definitely get a chance.

Camille Levert: It's too bad that people know little about the other Olympic venues being built, apart from the Bird's Nest and the Water Cube. I hope we will see more and more newly-designed architecture.

Host: Since you came from abroad, do you cook at home or eat out more often?

Camille Levert: I often eat out, especially for lunch when I go out with my colleagues. I cook dinner for myself sometimes, but not often. Sometimes I'll order in. When I cook, it's usually simple dishes. I think people who live here should enjoy that fact that Beijing offers so many types of cuisines. I am from Paris where the cost of living is quite high and eating out is expensive. In China there is so much variety and it's all so affordable, so why not eat out?

Host: Do you worry about the cleanliness of the restaurants you eat at?

Camille Levert: I've eaten out a lot these past three years in Beijing and I've never gotten sick. I don't think there are any health risks in Chinese restaurants. Of course, if you're eating in smaller restaurants or on the street, you have to be a little more careful. But there's no need to worry when eating at established restaurants and cafeterias.