Hi Sebastian,
I will be at the show and would be happy to meet you. NGC will have a booth and that is a convenient place to rendezvous. The second or third days of the show should not be as hectic as the first.
Thoughts on the show: if you see a long line of people waiting that usually means some new coin is for sale. Bring cash.
If you are looking for older coins to buy then there should be dealers with booths at the back, although this is not primarily a retail show.
Last year, for the first time, tickets were not needed to enter. Hopefully that will be the arrangement this year.
Enjoy the exhibits. All the Chinese coin mints will have special exhibits and many of the important people from those mints will be there, especially the first day.
The China Numismatic Museum and the French Mint often put on spectacular exhibitions. Don't miss them.
Don't load up on gold coins, or you may have difficulties with customs as you leave the country. A few ounces should be no problem. Silver has never posed any problem for me in any reasonable quantity.
In Beijing try to visit Madian, the main coin market. The address is: 万家马甸邮币卡市场西城区 黄寺大街23号(福丽特商业街南). It is just in walking distance (or a quick taxi ride) from the Deshengmen Gate which has the numismatic museum of the City of Beijing inside. I would not plan to go to Madian during the coin show as many shops will be closed.
I think that Pandaguy is a bit alarmist. China is, in general, a very safe country. I have travelled to quite a few places, including ones not frequented by Western tourists, and not had problems. In fact, I think China is one of the friendliest countries I have ever been to. Pickpockets exist, but I doubt you will encounter one. I never have, although Chinese friends have cautioned me about specific locations. What has happened a handful of times is that I have dropped or forgotten something (including my wallet) and had a stranger alert me, or come chasing after me, to return it. Of course, be careful.
A good rule in any country is to never go anywhere at all with someone you don't know. Follow the rule, always.
Beijing is a fascinating city and the BICE is a show like no other. Have a great time.
Best wishes,
Peter Anthony
China PricepediaThe Gold & Silver Panda Coin Buyer’s Guide 3
www.pandacollector.com