Beijing's top tourism official has said the city is well prepared to accommodate global travelers during the upcoming Olympics.

Zhang Huiguang, director of Beijing Tourism Administration, told a press conference on Friday that about 500,000 overseas tourists are expected to arrive in August.

To cater to their needs, Beijing tourism authorities have started a reception program to prepare for a boom in tourists. There are ample accommodation choices including 816 star-ranked hotels, of which 119 have signed contracts with Beijing Olympic organizer. 77.6 percent of the rooms at five-star level and 45.5 percent at four-star hotels have been booked.

To supplement hotel resources, 598 home-stay households were selected with 726 rooms for more than 1,000 potential guests, offering foreign visitors a chance to experience Beijing citizens' real lives.

To promote Beijing's tourism image, a video called "Beijing 2008" was made by the famous Chinese director Feng Xiaogang. A bilingual guidebook have also been published and delivered to 344 hotels, and a hotline was set up to offer a 24-hour information service as well.

Local travel agencies have been promoting best quality packages highlighting sports venues and activities, cultural relics, museums and other tourist sights in and around Beijing. They have developed a series of well-received theme events to encourage tourists'participation during the Olympic season.

Zhang Huiguang indicates the government will make the most of the Olympics and develop the city as an optimal travel destination."