The Beijing Games hasn't only brought visitors from around the world to China, it's given global cultural and diplomatic organizations a chance to showcase their native cultures in the Olympic city.

Thanks to these special exhibits, this summer visitors can 'globetrot' from Brazil to Russia, the United States to Japan, and beyond - all in downtown Beijing.

For instance, the heat is on at Brazil House (pictured above), where Brazilian drum music and video-screens of triumphant and sweat-drenched Brazilian athletes keep temperatures and enthusiasm high.

Situated at the Jianguo Garden Hotel in Beijing, the house showcases stunning images, performances and artifacts from Brazil - in particular from Rio de Janeiro, a candidate city for the 2016 Olympic Games.

In the center of the House is 'Rua Brazil', a large open space that includes a center stage for performances, smaller stages for 'pocket shows' and of course a classic Rio Bar. Drink up, relax and enjoy an evening performance of sultry Brazilian dancing. Nimble dancers with colorful costumes take the stage each night at 6 pm.

You might even catch a glimpse of some VIPs, as the House will also host victory parties for Olympic athletes from Brazil, as well as events involving Brazilian and foreign authorities, representatives from international organizations, journalists, opinion makers, entrepreneurs, tourism agencies, and the international sports community at large.

Brazil House is open to the public for free from 10 am to 8 pm, until Aug 24.

(China Daily August 15, 2008)