Keep it Chinese

Re “Hiding a host of ills under the red carpet,” July 21

Though the Chinese government’s attempt to Westernize Beijing is understandable, Olympic contestants and spectators would probably prefer to be greeted with a bow and a “Ni Hao” rather than a “May I kiss your hand?” gesture. The 2008 Beijing Olympics is, after all, in China, not Italy.

I am sure that the international athletes and visitors -- from various racial and ethnic backgrounds-- will want to experience a new culture.

A ban on spitting will definitely please pedestrians, and refining one’s etiquette is a big thumbs-up, but let’s keep the traditional greetings of a unique Asian heritage.

Alice Kwan

Alhambra