A tourist information network, composed of one tourist information center and nine information stands, has been put in operation here.

The tourist information stands can be seen at the city's major scenic spots.Their services include the provision of information,flight ticket ordering, emergency aid, receiving complaints, and souvenir displays.

The network is linked via the Internet, sharing one platform and the same information resources in both Chinese and English. The stands' logo is "I," the first letter of "Information," which follows the international standard.

Set up by the municipal government, the network is a non-profitable enterprise.

Sources from the local tourism administration said that more tourist information stands will be set up at more scenic spots to meet tourists' needs.

Beijing received nearly three million overseas tourists last year, according to the tourism administration.

( Xinhua News Agency February 3, 2002}