As fierce Olympic competition attracted the world's attention and a huge influx spectators along Qingdao's breakwater, beer was the choice for celebration along downtown Qingdao's Beer Street.

Foreigners enjoy Tsingtao beer at the Beer Street in Qingdao during the Olympic sailing competition.

"I came here for the beer. It's very good, with a different flavor," said Graham Rainey from London. "I like the atmosphere very much. It is much more relaxed and peaceful than Shanghai," he said.

Beer Street boasts a combination of libations, leisure and food, along with a carnival and entertainment. Sixty bars and restaurants of various European styles are clustered along the street where guests can quaff fresh Tsingtao Beer produced by the brewery nearby.

Relatives of three American Yngling women sailors enjoyed the brew after the team finished seventh.

"We drink Tsingtao Beer back in the States, too, but it tastes even better and fresher here," said Kristin Burkhart from Boston.

Another member of the party, Michael Howes, said the group attended the test event in Qingdao last year and found the street after a Chinese friend recommended it.

"Fortunately, this year all the relatives are here to cheer our girls. Drinking here is a kind of enjoyment for all of us," he said.

Qingdao's grand sailing event benefited bars and restaurants all along the street.

Jin Shiqiang, boss of Yushui Restaurant, told China Daily that they had more guests than ever, including many foreigners.

"I hired some university students, especially those who can speak English," he said.

A beer club in the Theme Park inside the Olympic sailing center attracted foreign athletes every day.

Jostin Landon and David Crees, sailors from the Royal Victoria Yacht Club in London, came to Qingdao to cheer on their national fleet. They also drank at the club with friends.

"I like Qingdao so much with the Olympics, so we decided to get friends together and enjoy ourselves here," said Landon.

"The beer is wonderful. It is the best in China for sure," noted Crees. "And it is fantastic to join with locals."

Tsingtao Beer is now sold in more than 80 countries and regions across the globe.

Seventeen consecutive Qingdao International Beer Festivals have been hosted in the city since 1991, with more than 5 million visitors from home and abroad arriving each year.

The 18th festival this year will be held from September 19 to October 5, with the slogan "Qingdao Toasts with the World".

Over 80 international beer brands will participate in the festival, with increasing numbers of foreign tourists also expected to join the gala.

(China Daily August 25, 2008)