"We are sunk! Guangzhou is so beautiful, said Irish native Pierce when he called home to his family during the Asian Games. Before Guangzhou unveiled its newfound beauty at the Asian Games, Pierce was one of a myriad of foreigners who insisted that their home city was the most beautiful in the world.
Despite the city s successful Asian Games, Guangzhou officials faced mounting public pressure and some disapproval at its reconstruction and municipal projects. Every city that holds an international event faces criticism which the organizers must undertake and be inspired by, said Xu jian from the Sichuan Daily.
Most journalists were surprised by what they saw when they first arrived in Guangzhou. David from Australia, who heard that Guangzhou was a city rank with pollution, said the city turned out much different from his imagination. From the urban areas to the Asian Games Town, there is green everywhere. Taking a walk after lunchtime, I can see the blue sky and clear water.
Alvin Sallay, a reporter from India, was astonished at Guangzhou s transformation. I knew the city would different, but the new roads and buildings are so amazing, especially the Guangzhou tower, said Sallay. The city construction is appropriate, everything seems perfect here.
Games Transforms the City
The 2010 Asian Games was more than just a sporting event for Guangzhou. On October 13, 2010, Guangzhou Mayor Wan Qingliang said in a press conference that the Asian Games would act as a strong stimulus to promote public transportation, economy and lifestyle.
Such international events can renew the government s work mode and make them more broad-minded and liberal.
The influence following the games is gradual and huge, said one foreign journalist named David.
Guangzhou citizens will sure to benefit from the Games in the future, Sallay said after seeing the city s newly constructed metro system and roads.
