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Hospitality Houses display national cultures

Reporter: Stephen Gibbs 丨 CCTV.com

08-10-2016 17:06 BJT

Full coverage: 2016 Rio Olympics

With world attention and hundreds of dignitaries descending on Rio right now, many countries have continued the Olympic tradition of setting up national "hospitality houses" to showcase their nations.

A taste of Switzerland in the heart of Rio. This is one of many national hospitality houses across the city. Open to the public it is distinctly child-friendly-designed for those who are getting tired of the real games. Or just want to practice some new skills.

Nearby, there is the British House. It's a spectacular, stylish conversion of one of the city's most beautiful mansions. Entry is by invitation only. A perfect view of the action is on offer for those lucky enough to be on the guest list.

The most glamorous hospitality house is probably the one hosted by Qatar.  The courtyard of a grand, 19th century building has been converted into an Arabian souk.

Upstairs, guests are encouraged to peruse the kingdom's plans for the 2022 FIFA World cup.

China's temporary home is in the grounds of Rio's racecourse. Here VIP guests are being given a taste of China. And Chinese nationals enjoy a bit of downtime.

"The purpose of these hospitality homes, including this one for China, is less to talk about these games, and more to focus on future ones," said Stephen Gibbs, CCTV reporter.

Beijing is hosting the 2022 Winter Games-many of the displays here are dedicated to showcasing that. Never before has the same city hosted both the Summer and Winter games.

There will be a high-speed train, linking the city and the mountains. Getting in the spirit, even the Rio mascot has been taught to ski.

So, is there an undeclared parallel games going on here, over whose hospitality house is the best? It does sometimes look that way. Though unlike the other games, no winners will be declared.

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