The much-awaited second round of domestic ticket sales went off better than the first, which caused some embarrassment, but there were still some problems with the Internet platform.

While passing the Olympic torch has become a focal point for demonstrations over China's human rights record, major sponsors of the games aren't expected to flame out over the controversy.

China's been spending tens of billions of dollars preparing for the 2008 games but it won't stop there. The boom is expected to run until 2012 as Beijing, among other things, expands its financial district.

The Olympic logo is everywhere in Beijing, as corporate sponsors push their brands, but non-sponsors are also capitalizing on the games by associating themselves with what one ad industry veteran calls "the winning spirit."

China has a lot to gain from hosting the 2008 Summer Games, but there are two areas that pose particular risks to the country’s image and reputation -- political dissent and the environment.

The 2008 Beijing Olympics present an unparalleled marketing opportunity for global brands looking to expand their presence in the dynamic Chinese market.

Top Western hotel brands are already well established in Beijing and Shanghai – as well as smaller cities – and are boosting their presence, looking to capitalize on the games, which are expected to draw an estimated 2 million visitors.

U.S. Olympic fans looking to fly to Beijing  for the summer games will find a limited choice of options originating from the US, but they'll find a spanking new airport terminal and light rail line.

The Olympic Games haven't started, but the big-time stars are already cashing in. The most marketable star for the 2008 Games is a name you probably don't know

Winning the rights to host the Olympics has created heated competition over the years with more than a few surprises. Here's a list of the cities that came out on top.

Terminal Three at Beijing International Airport is now the world’s largest building. The 986,000-square-meter terminal is a crucial addition to the overstrained airport ahead of the Beijing Olympics this August.

The Olympic games in Beijing are a prime opportunity for US carriers to prove their worth and thus gain greater access to a key growth market.

Major companies such as Chicago-based Marriott International, the Intercontinental Group of Britain, Accor of France and Shangri-La of Hong Kong, have built networks and are expanding aggressively through the country. 

Visiting China is a lot easier than it used to be but there's still plenty for visitors to consider. Here's some tips on visas, vaccinations and other practical matters.

Here's a sampling of international websites where you  can learn more about the Olympics, Beijing and  China.