Now to Rio, where preparations to host 2016 Olympics are sparking jitters, optimism
RIO DE JANEIRO - The snuffing out of the Olympic flame in London Sunday marked a conclusion for
most, but for 2016 host city Rio de Janeiro it kicked off four years of pre-games jitters and a race against
the clock to ready this notoriously laid-back beach city for the global sports showcase.
Organizers acknowledged Rio's shortage of hotel rooms was the city's main weakness going back to the bid
stage, which pitted the city against Madrid, Tokyo and Chicago in a 2009 vote.
More than 2 million visitors entered London's Olympic Park during this year's games, but Rio's current hotel
capacity stands at about 33,000 beds, including those at the "love" motels that dot the seedier neighborhoods.
During a recent United Nations conference here, Mayor Paes had to resort to decreeing a three-day public holiday, closing
schools and urging residents to rent out rooms to conference participants.
Now to Rio, where preparations to host 2016 Olympics are sparking jitters, optimism | StarTribune.com