The intensification and alterations of legal policy in advance of the Olympics has affected everyone in China this year. Whether you are a foreigner or Chinese citizen, doubtless your life has been (at the very least) inconvenienced by the changes to and the enforcement of Chinese law these days. As a foreigner who presently resides in Beijing, I experience the increased strictness more intensely than most, although my experience pales when compared with some of my colleagues who have had to rearrange their lives entirely during to remain in China this summer. Regardless, I am certainly looking forward to the day when I no longer need to scan my bag when I ride the subway or have the police come to my home asking for my documentation. This day will presumably come in September; however, does anyone have any insight into whether the government will actually relax policies like visa eligibility and postal restrictions when the games conclude? Naturally, rumors abound in both directions (i.e. everything will be as it was vs. this is how it will be from now on), so I do not know what to believe. If any NHR readers know something or experienced similar changes in legal policy in the past, I would be grateful to learn what I can expect once the flags come down and the capital returns to business as usual.

I don't have the answer to your big question, but what I do notice is an increase in general social politeness. I was taken aback 2 months ago when, as I was standing under a tree which was barely protecting me from the rain, a car pulled up and the front passenger handed me an umbrella. If the Olympics are increasing this 'love-thy-neighbour' attitude, then an x-ray at Dongzhimen subway station is more than a fair trade. Well, in my eyes at least.

everything will return to normalty after the Olympics and Paralympics. the measures taken were to ensure a safe Olympics. Polar Bear

It has now been over a month since the Olympic Games ended... Which is enough time for us to have noticed any relaxation in visa policies. So, has anyone actually noticed a difference?

Nanjing's 'general social politeness' (as discussed by morryone) remained noticeably improved until last weekend; however, this was due to Nanjing’s bid to become a ‘civilised city’. Rumour has it that we did not win this _title_, and in response, it seems, we have returned to our pre-games status.

Security remains high for international travel but has been relaxed somewhat for domestic travel.

Visa regulations within Nanjing are still extremely strict with no signs of ANY relaxation. This is causing serious problems for many of my clients and business peers.

I’d be interested to here from those of you in cities other than Nanjing. Have visa regulations relaxed? Has social politeness remained at an all time high?

Beijing is still x-raying bags prior to boarding the subway, but that is not done in Shanghai, Guangzhou or Shenzhen. Shanghai does x-ray on the fast inter-state trains, however, the staff rarely stop people.

It's all part of the great proces, that China loves. Forget about the actual purpose.

It is still providing jobs at a time when they are needed.
At least no more queues to get into the airport to have your bags checked.