I hesitate to use the term "do" because: 1) it's kind of dorky IMO, and 2) the odds of us getting enough people to participate in a "do-worthy" event are close to zero.

Having gotten that preamble out of the way, myself, jiejie, and thezippy are low hanging fruits. And, if can schedule the event around mnredfox's next Beijing trip, we'll be up to four from the get-go.

In the unlikely event that we could make this happen prior to May 31 (when thezippy's Marriott gold card expires), we could potentially fetch a 50% discount at any Marriott restaurant, including Nobu, and mnredfox could stretch his Marriott bucks a bit further by use of a weekend BOGO.

In case the May 31 deadline is too tight, I have another friend in Chengdu that could hook us up with longer dated Marriott coupons (she has multiple cards).

Assuming the Nobu example, here is my math:

-8-10 people
-we spend y1000 each
-cut that figure in half (and then add 15% based on the original amount) with the coupon
-I throw in my Nobu money and mnredfox uses his remaining Marriott $, both at a 25% discount
-we're down to less than y400, pp

It should go without saying that it would be easy to steer clear of the hotel thing and simply dine at a reasonably priced restaurant in Sanlitun.

I'm game, with the caveat that I'm abroad until the 17th...

Damn. I'm going to be in China in June but this is the one trip I'm not spending any time in PEK. I'd love to meet you guys sometime though. Next time perhaps ...

Am likely to be in BJ for first two weeks of June (exact dates tbd). Will have some work commitments, but most evenings will be free. If it coincides with the 'gathering', I would be up for it.

tb

I'm out of Beijing all of June, so if you caucus then, you'll have to drink my share.

This thing appears to be "on" this weekend, but I won't be able to attend. That having been said, those of you that happen to be in the "capital" will get a chance to hang out with Bertie Higgins and JTz. I recommend "Bang, Bang". I'm sorry I can't make it; I need to spend 1 more week in Shanghai.

In response to the two people that PMed me, the reason this weekend makes the most sense is that a regular poster to this forum (who wishes to remain nameless) will be in town. Assuming things work out, I envision ~3 FTers (I want you guys to meet my lurker friend, "beijingbob", who is a courier during his down time), Bertie, and JTz. Unless one of the attendees is uber rich and willing to take down the tab, you won't be dining at Nobu (this idea was contingent upon a perfect storm of factors, including me bringing my Nobu money); think more along the lines of Bang Bang or Grinders.

I nominate thezippy to take charge of things from this point forward. I hope it works out.

The "Shanghai Micro Do" will take place on Monday night at Malone's... probably just me, the FTer who does not wish to be named, a client of mine, and a few intelligent females.

Have fun all in Beijing, sorry I can't be there.

I'd love to meet any of you regulars here who have been helping me plan my trip when I'm in Beijing Oct. 8-12. I don't know the hotel I'll be at yet (hopefully Cap Ren w. monndogs' help). My DH can't seem to believe that people here on FT will advise and help others with a trip without a catch or angle. He thinks some of you are touts for hotels or tour guides.

Well, he's not the first person to insinuate such. Furthermore, on occasion one off posters start threads plugging specific tour guides or tailors. These are usually pretty easy to spot and ignore.

will be in BJ July 12-22. Would love to meet up with FTers!!!!

That could work. I suggest we try to pick a date and roll with it. I don't have any conflicts during that time frame.

I suggest we take this thing to the next level.

-July 10
-Chaoyang Park swimming pool
-we bring beer, ice, and music
-I will invite lots of Chinese friends, plus JTz

Upon your collective agreement, I can edit post #1 and get this thread moved to Community Buzz!

I will have just arrived in BJ the day before..however, I think I'm actually working during that sunday (!), will know nearer the time. I presume, being a sunday, it's an afternoon affair? However, if I'm free, I'll be sure to come along (sans beer -- am teetotal, hopefully that won't offend!).

tb

Consumption of booze has never been a requirement at FT events (formal or informal) and this will be no exception. Furthermore, both the venue and the date remain in the "negotiation" phase.

That having been said, I think we should nail down something concrete ASAP. I'm in the process of (partially) relocating to SH, but I will put this event on my calendar if we can reach a consensus.