I was having a chat with the owner of the Pavillion in Beijing (yes, I don't know why it's two L's either other than the fact he can't spell) and he was telling me about the plans for most of the popular expat bars and restaurants in Beijing while the Olympics is being held. Apparently, a large number of them have been rented out for the entire duration of the Olympics to corporate event companies. The entire bar and it's management will, in effect, be taken over during this time. These venues will then be sublet to companies with 'corporate hospitality' booths and stalls, or reserved entirely for corporate entertainment. That means no access at all to your chosen local expat hangout, or having to pay top dollar (I was reliably informed USD100 would open a door at such venues at the Sydney Olympics) just to get in.

Better make sure you know your local bar hasn't sold it's soul and customers down the swannee for the Olympics - otherwise you may be in for a bit of a shocker. Me ? I'm already cosying up to some bar owner down a hutong near HouHai and educating him as to what a good bar selection means and just how much foreigners can drink. I reckon I'll have him trained by the time the Olympics are here - and I suggest you do the same.