Source: CCTV.com

10-02-2007 08:54

Special Report:   2008 Olympics Countdown

At least half a million visitors from overseas are expected to come to Beijing for the 2008 Olympics. Right now, the city's hotels and hostels just can't meet that huge demand. Pan Deng went to see how one man opened a small hostel inside one of Beijing's centuries-old hutongs. It's unique style is already attracting tourists from all over the world.

Olympics, a grand feast for sports and tourism. As well as fancy multiple-star hotels with expensive prices, there are some special alternatives.

This small hostel with a pure Beijing style is deep inside one of the city's hutong districts.

It's owner, Zhang Hao, transformed it from an old courtyard a year ago.

Zhang Hao used to work in the financial sector and had no idea how to run a hostel. But when he realized there would be a huge demand for accommodation during the Olympics, Zhang gave up his work and bet all his savings to give it a try.

Zhang Hao, Manager of Beijing Templeside House Hostel said "My hostel will definitely be full of customers during the Beijing Olympics."

Zhang's budget wasn't enough to do anything too fancy, so he decided to start something unique instead.

After a thorough investigation, he found out there are very few courtyard-based hostels in Beijing.

Zhang said "I liked staying in hostels when I was travelling abroad, so I decided to open my own. I spent half of my money on renovation and half on the rent."