As Rio prepares to host ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’ over the next 17 days, Review Travel has put together a handy guide for time-stretched business travellers visiting past host nations and how best to spend your downtime:
Beijing, China
First stop: The Forbidden City
Located in the centre of Beijing, The Forbidden City is China’s best-preserved imperial palace and is home to the infamous Tiananmen Square. Browse the extensive selection of artwork and artefacts on display in the Palace Museum and take in the splendour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Next stop: Silk Street in the Chaoyang District.
With 1,700 retailers selling a variety of Chinese handicrafts, antiques, electronics and paintings, Silk Street is the best place to pick up souvenirs for friends and family.
Los Angeles, USA
First stop: Venice Beach
The perfect place for taking in the variety of people that call LA home. Whether it’s a magician, the Muscle Beach weightlifters or fortune-tellers dotted along the promenade, you will not get bored and are sure to have a story or two to tell once you’re home!
Next stop: Cavatina in West Hollywood
Enjoy seasonal Californian cuisine on Cavatina’s sun-drenched terrace at the Sunset Marquis Hotel in West Hollywood. From its slow-roasted filet mignon to Mediterranean sea bass and oysters, there are plenty of delicious choices to tantalise your taste buds.
Berlin, Germany
First stop: Berlin Wall
The majority of the Berlin Wall was demolished during the reunification of Germany in 1990, but there are still large sections standing. Make sure you visit Checkpoint Charlie, the name given by Western Allies to the best-known crossing point.
Next stop: Brandenburg Gate
This iconic 18th century neoclassical monument is one of the most well-known landmarks in Germany. Located in the west of the city, the gate has been the site of major historical events and makes a spectacular backdrop for photos.
