Russia wants to knock your socks off. Denmark is stylish and sophisticated. Ireland is up for a party – on a budget. There are more than 200 countries at the Olympics, and they have two ways to stand out. One is on the medal podium – the other is by partying.

Dotted across London, national hospitality houses offer a base for a country’s athletes, officials and occasional celebrities. Some are open to the public, showing a festive side to tourists from around the world. Others are strictly invitation only, like the American pavilion at the Royal College of Art.

Full article:
Olympic Houses Turn London into Global Party – AP News – August 2, 2012
By: Jill Lawless
Link to AP News article