As August quickly approaches, visitors that intend to be a part of the Summer Olympics 2008 hosted by Beijing, China had best make their reservations before it is too late. We have listed a few recommended hotels where guests will get a fair price in comfortable lodgings.

Howard Johnson Paragon Hotel Beijing

The hotel is located in the heart of the city. Surrounded by tourist attractions, the Embassy and the business center, it is opposite to the Beijing Railway Station for ease of transportation. There are three hundred guest rooms with modern furnishings and include amenities such as central air conditioning, in-room safe, IDD telephone, and a flat screen television. There are a number of dining and drinking options for all culinary preferences. Complimentary services include airport drop off and pick up, an on site cicerone that speaks both English and Chinese, daily breakfast and a day of sightseeing in the capital city of Beijing. All reservations should be made prior to August 1st with advance payment. No payments will be accepted upon arrival.

Beijing Holiday Garden Hotel

With just 54 guest accommodations, Beijing Holiday Garden Hotel is a premier destination. An imposing facade with an Egyptian architectural style, the hotel boasts state-of-the-art facilities and luxurious and contemporary amenities. The Olympic venues are easily accessible from the hotel so that no event will be missed. Complimentary extras include transportation to and from the airport, daily breakfast, and a day of sightseeing in Beijing. As with the other hotels, payment is required in advance and reservations need to be made before August 1st.

Tuanjie Lake Hotel

This hotel is in the perfect location where guests can visit the China Agriculture Exhibition Hall, the Yansha Shopping Mall and the China International Exhibition Center. The airport is nearby as is the Beijing Railway Station and plenty of bus lines. Amenities include free internet connection using broadband and desktop computers in the business suites. The same complimentary extras are offered as the other recommended hotels and the same restrictions apply.

So if you plan to be part of history at the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, start planning your trip and make your reservations soon so that you have a comfortable place to hang your hat.

It wasn’t until 1974 that Bhutan opened her doors to visitors and quite cautiously we might add. It boasts a location that is nestled in the heart of the Himalayas and for centuries has kept a distance from the world at large. The people are warm and welcoming and the architecture and scenery are awe inspiring. It is a country that has deep roots in its religious beliefs and the sights the traveler can visit reflect that commitment.

Dechenphu Lhakhang

In order to reach this religious and spiritual treasure you must climb a short distance up a staircase made of stone. The elevation once reached is 872 feet or 2660m. The chapel or goenkhang is red, imposing and tall and the site is dedicated to Gyenyen a powerful deity that can supply the weapons needed to an endless amount of soldiers. Next door you will find a Buddhist Monastary and the paintings have recently been restored to their former glory.

Taktshang Goemba

This is declared one of Bhutan’s most famous monasteries and can be found perched cliffside 2952 feet or 900m above the bottom of the Paro valley. The only sounds one can hear are the soft sounds of wind and water along with the murmurs of the chanting monks. The founder of this monastery was said to have arrived on the back of a female tiger, hence the name means “tiger’s nest.” In 1998 a fire of suspicious origin destroyed the contents of the monastery along with the main building. It wasn’t until 2005 that the rebuilt site was reconsecrated before the king at a considerable cost.

Trongsa Dzong

Located high above the Mangde Chhu this fort/monastery is one of the most impressive that can be found in the kingdom of Bhutan. There is a succession of stunning courtyards along with spectacular Bhutanese architecture in the traditional mode. It is a site that no visitor to Bhutan wants to miss.

Bhutan remains a mysterious destination for most Western visitors that find it difficult to understand the religion and impulses that shaped this ancient land. One visit to Bhutan will convince you of the tranquility and beauty of this sacred nation.