China: An Introduction

China is home to over 1.3 billion people. Slightly smaller than the United States in size, the People’s Republic of China (or PRC) is the single most populated country in the world (the U.S. population is about 300 million). Since instituting market reforms a number of years ago, the Chinese economy has exploded like a rocket headed for outer space. Such dramatic growth generates unprecedented development and prosperity. It also brings pollution and greater scrutiny of labor practices. And in case you forgot, the country remains very much a Communist nation.

Men crowd around to watch a chess-like match

Just a few weeks ago i found out that i would have the opportunity to live and work in Beijing for a month. It couldn’t be a better time to be in China. All eyes will be on the country next summer when Beijing hosts the 2008 summer Olympics. Meanwhile, business activity is at a fever pitch. Investors and businesspeople from around the world are eagerly pursuing opportunities in China hoping to grab a slice of the proverbial pie.

Construction cranes remake the city skyline

In order to prepare for this experience, i began studying Mandarin and tai chi in the weeks leading up to my departure. I also picked up several books, including Paul Theroux’s Riding the Iron Rooster, which details the surly but perceptive travel writer’s travels through China by train. Another book i am reading is titled, get this – Foreign Babes in Beijing. This is the true story of an American woman who moved to Beijing right out of college and stumbled into a starring role in a hit Chinese television series of the same name. Her writing is fresh and provides a very insightful account of what it is like to experience Chinese culture as an outsider.

Gleaming skyscrapers show off the new Beijing

I am extremely excited to see firsthand what all the buzz is about. I hope you follow along and enjoy some of the experiences i have to share. As always, your comments are welcome!