Just behind the Workers stadium, there's a place where you can swim with sharks, tortoises, and other giant aquatic creatures. Plunge into the water and you'll find an entire ocean world encapsulated in glass. Huge coral structures conceal bizarre creatures with prickles, scales, and slime. Not to mention nasty, big, pointy teeth.

　　Interested? Shocked? We're talking about the Beijing Blue Zoo Aquarium, where for YY380 (includes price of entrance ticket) you can scuba dive for half an hour in the facility's enormous saltwater aquarium. Novices need not feel discouraged: diving instructor Li Hui will explain the basics, familiarize you with the equipment, and accompany you into the tank.

　　Perhaps equally as fun as plumbing the watery depths are the gawking stares you receive when aquarium patrons spot you swimming amongst the sharks and sea life. "I can't believe they actually let you do this," said US visitor Adam Peter after emerging from the tank. To be sure, you are probably not going to find the Blue Zoo diving experience in US aquariums. But don't worry about the aforementioned teeth-the sharks are quite harmless, as is everything else. (This is not to say that you can swim up and hug them, but you can pet some of them gently.) Perfect for one of those 'I did it' tales.

　　Beijing Blue Zoo Aquarium: Worker's Stadium South Gate, Chaoyang District. Li Hui does not speak English and can be reached at 6591-3397 ex.1120 or 139-1065-4719.

　　Additionally, those who are interested in general opportunities to scuba dive in Beijing might want to contact Steven Schwankert, President of Sinoscuba. Tel: 136-9302-8913 or check: www.sinoscuba.com .