Closing Out Beijing

August 23, 2008

Travis Sherwin/Orlando

This being my last post, I’m leaving you with what I’ll remember from the Beijing Olympics.

Of course, I’ll remember meeting America’s medal-winning athletes and their events, but I’ll also remember the incredible people, places and tastes of China.

Starting with what will forever be the image of the Beijing Games:

The Bird's Nest at night

The Bird's Nest at night

The image I’ve always associated with China:

The Forbidden City

The Forbidden City

Then, there’s the wonderful Summer Palace. I never knew it existed, let alone that it is so beautiful.
Steps at the Summer Palace

Steps at the Summer Palace

I’ll never forget the food. Including the signature dish of Beijing:
Peking Duck

Peking Duck

And, there’s also what I call the Chinese version of fondue:
Hot Pot

Hot Pot

I’ll always be fascinated with the way they get around here.
A popular way to travel

A popular way to travel

Finally, there are the friendships. Like the new one I made with our translator, Mady.

Mady at the Summer Palace

Mady at the Summer Palace

And, the lifelong bonds I’ve made with our team.
The HATV Olympic Team

The HATV Olympic Team

It’s time to pack and take a much-needed break. See you in Vancouver!
Xie Xie, Zai Jian,
-Travis