What do Athens, Atlanta, and Tokyo have in common? They are all locations that have hosted the Olympic Games, the world's largest athletic competition. Every two years, cities around the world vie to bring athletes and entertainment to their corner of the world. Originally, the host cities for the winter and summer games were selected based on what the city already offered for the athletes. Today, the host cities are selected through a much different process.

First, the city must prove that it is big enough to host the volume of athletes and spectators. Next, the city must convince its taxpayers that the income from the Olympics will offset the expenses necessary to build any additional structures for competition locations and lodging. Finally, the city must prove its worth as a positive presence on the world's stage.

Hosting the Olympics comes with a large price tag. If the games are so expensive, why do cities want to host the Olympics? Cities are able to show pride in their country, employ people to improve infrastructure, and profit from the tourism dollars added to the community.