Beijing is beautiful, says French food rep

Camille Levert

Full coverage: Interview with Camille Levert

(BEIJING, April 14) -- Whether she's talking about architecture, bike riding or local friends, Camille Levert has only good stories to tell of her two stays in Beijing. First arriving in China in 1995 for a half year of study at Peking University, Levert returned to Beijing in 2005 and is currently Sopexa's China Marketing Director Beijing Office Representative.

"Apart from the Drum Temple and the Lama Temple that I just mentioned," said Levert in an interview with Beijing2008.cn, referring to her affection for two of Beijing's most noted ancient buildings, "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."

One of Levert's favourite pastimes is bike riding. "I really like riding my bike. On the weekends I'll ride through some of Beijing's old alleyways. I see gardens everywhere. Beijing really is more beautiful now," she said. "We're starting to see the results of the effort to make Beijing more green."

Though Levert thinks China has changed rapidly in the last 13 years, mentioning the worsening traffic and the new malls and buildings appearing around town, the kindheartedness of Beijing's people, she says, remains the same. "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," she said, then offered this example, "If I need 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."