No big event is complete without an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. This huge Rio sign welcomes athletes to the Olympic Village and is perfectly sized for climbing on top.
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Located to the west of the city center, the Olympic Village has everything the athletes could need: multiple dining halls, transportation to and from the nearby athletic venues, and, of course, a state-of-the-art gym to maintain peak performance.
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The buildings across the complex take inspiration from famed Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. Their modernist styling and low, flat architectural lines look like a collection of high-rise hotels, which is essentially their purpose for the 10,000 athletes staying here while the Games are in session.
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For countries with sizeable delegations, each building is functionally their own. These two buildings are decorated in black, orange, and yellow for Germany (right) and yellow and blue for Australia (left). As athletes have begun arriving at the village, some have complained of unfinished construction, leaking pipes, and clogged toilets. The Austrailian delegation even delayed their arrival until some of their concerns were addressed.
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If you think the athletes are treated like royalty, think again. The rooms are sparse, small, and cramped. This isn't a Ritz-Carlton stay.
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At least the beds are festive, featuring a bedspread pattern that encompasses all of the pictograms for every Olympic sport. However, we can't image a 7-foot tall basketball player fitting comfortable on this twin bed.
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In the middle of the 31 buildings on the property is the Village Plaza. The area features recreation opportunities such as pools, tennis courts, and a walking track that runs the length of the property.
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The rooms may be bland, but the pools certainly aren't. Framed by numerous palm trees and wooden cabanas, the large infinity pool features enough room for plenty of people to relax after their events are completed.
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What's an athletic competition without a gym to put all others to shame? This isn't your neighborhood Planet Fitness. Rows upon rows upon rows....and even more rows of equipment stand ready for intense workouts from professional athletes. It's probably the most intimidating gym experience ever.
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All of these new Olympic buildings have come at a cost, however. The Brazilian favela, or slum area, of Vila Autódromo occupied the majority of the area where the Olympics are being held. Up to 90% of the community was razed using eminent domain. Of the over 700 poor families who once lived in the area, around 40 have won rights to stay.
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