Last time, I said that I'd be talking about one of my favorite French TV Shows called "Pékin Express". It's aired on TV each thursday and it's about several teams made of two people who not only have to survive in many different countries by winning games, but also have to find a shelter and place to sleep at each passing day. They literally have to use their abilities to earn people's trusts to be able to have a roof above their head.
In this game, using languages is a must, although many of them cannot spea that well, they need to find ways to communicate as most of the games involve the locals. In fact, the contestants must cpnstantly move from one place to another and arrive first to win a game (mainly by cars, bus, trucks or any means of tranportation). To not make it look like a hitch-hiking show, the program varies its games by changing the rules or adding new rules.
Pékin Express is all about cleverness (learning how to survive in another country), resillience (depending on the chosen countries, there come many challenges), stamina (for they always have to run), good physical conditions ( some of the tasks require either strengh or agility) and a sense of competition (for you sometimes need to show no mercy to your opponents).
Does this game make you want to participate? In my opinion, with a little bit of preparation, I always thought that it'd be possible, but when I closely look at it, especially for me... I think it's similar to the situation where you feel like you can eat everything, but your belly ends up humbling you. Your realize at that very moment that you eyes were bigger than your belly.
That's all for today :) Have a nice weekend and thank you for reading my posts.
Here in Japan, games like this are quite popular on TV.
There's also an Italian version, Pechino Express. I like it, but sometimes I get the feeling that it's completely staged, which takes away from the overall experience. You have to wonder why on earth the locals are so willing to help a bunch of complete strangers. I doubt this happens in real life. Also, most of the interactions between the contestants and the locals are as awkward as they can get.
@T-Newfields Japan are the kings of game shows. They're very funny and entertaining and it's also a different culture. I watched many of them and couldn't stop laughing. Thanks for correcting and adding new suggestions :)
@Simone- I didn't know there was an Italian version, I'll watch it. It's true that some people might not feel comfortable at times as it's not always true to life. Some things look fake or staged, but it's only a TV show made for entertainment, so nothing shocking... I still like it, just like you, even if it sometimes feels weird :)
You're right. As for the Italian version, I'm not sure if you can watch it online. You'd need a subscription to Now TV (Sky).
Thanks @Simone-