My wife and I recently returned from an unforgettable week in Paris, where we had the privilege of attending the 2024 Summer Olympics. As seasoned travelers to Paris, this trip was anything but typical. Instead of our usual agenda of wandering the charming streets, exploring galleries, and indulging in the city’s culinary delights, we found ourselves immersed in the energy and excitement of one of the world’s greatest sporting events. From witnessing world records being shattered to sharing in the camaraderie of fans from around the globe, our week in Paris was a celebration of athletic excellence, international friendship, and the unique spirit of the Olympics.
International Competition and Camaraderie
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Olympics is the genuine camaraderie among athletes and fans alike. Throughout the week, we were constantly reminded of how the Games bring the world together. The competition was fierce, yet there was a palpable sense of mutual respect and friendliness among everyone present. Whether it was cheering alongside Swiss fans as we watched our women’s beach volleyball team secure a thrilling victory in the round of 16 in a stunning setting under the Eiffel Tower or hearing the thunderous applause for the South Korean archers in front in front of the Hôtel des Invalides, the spirit of unity was evident everywhere.
A highlight of our experience was reconnecting with international friends who had also traveled to the Games. Paris became a meeting ground for people from all corners of the globe, all brought together by a shared love for sport. It was a powerful reminder of how sport transcends borders and cultures, creating bonds that are as strong as they are diverse.
Witnessing History in the Making
Attending the Olympics offers a unique opportunity to witness history as it unfolds, and we were fortunate enough to see several historic moments. The Speed Climbing event was particularly thrilling, as we watched in awe as the world record was broken twice by the same incredible athlete in consecutive runs. The atmosphere was electric, and the crowd’s excitement was contagious.
Another unforgettable moment was watching France dominate the men’s BMX racing, sweeping the medals with spectacular skill and speed. As proud Swiss supporters, we were thrilled to see Zoé Claessens take the BMX racing Bronze medal and then see her with it the next day while we were hanging out at the Swiss House — a highlight that made the experience even more special.
The energy at the volleyball matches was another standout memory, especially with the fans’ spirited chants of “monster block” reverberating through the stadium. The hosts did a fantastic job engaging the fans, making every event we attended a lively and interactive experience.
The Art of Planning: Lessons Learned
As with any significant event, we learned some important lessons along the way. For anyone planning to attend future Olympics, here are a few tips that might come in handy:
- Arrive Early: Get to the venue at least 45 minutes before the session starts. While everything ran smoothly, getting through security and navigating the venues took some time. The lines only grew as you got closer to the start time. Also, the venues had activities to keep you entertained, so showing up when the gates opened 90 minutes before the session is not a bad idea.
- Souvenir Strategy: Skip the lines at the megastore and pick up your souvenirs at the venue stands. Not only are the lines shorter, but the selection is often just as good, if not better, than the satellite shops.
- Explore Beyond the Games: While we didn’t have time for traditional sightseeing, we noticed that the city was easier to navigate thanks to the extra efforts made for the Games. If you’re visiting during such an event, it might be the perfect time to explore museums and galleries with fewer crowds.
- Country Houses: Take advantage of the various country houses. We had a blast at the Swiss House and were thoroughly entertained by the Slovenian breakdancers at their house. It’s a great way to experience different cultures and enjoy unique entertainment.
A Different Kind of Paris Experience
This trip to Paris was unlike any we’ve had before. Our usual agenda of leisurely strolls and cultural exploration took a backseat to the excitement of the Games. We chose our hotel based on its proximity to public transport hubs, knowing we’d be darting between events rather than lingering in cafes.
While we missed the typical Parisian bistro experience, the French infused a bit of culinary flair into the venue’s food offerings. Our breakfasts at the morning beach volleyball sessions were elevated with delicious crepes and fresh fruit, and lunches and dinners featured an array of options like quiche, bruschetta, focaccia topped with spinach and feta, and refreshing quinoa salads. It was a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of France while staying immersed in the spirit of the Olympics.
Our journey to Paris was part of a broader adventure that took us from Rheinfelden to St. Etienne, where we saw three thrilling football matches, including a memorable victory for the Ukrainian men over Morocco. We then spent two nights in Dijon, using it as a base to explore Burgundy. A highlight was a self-guided bike and wine tour from Dijon to Nuits-Saint-Georges—a perfect blend of exercise and indulgence.
A Final Thought
Paris 2024 was a week filled with unforgettable moments, from cheering on our teams in a mixture of US and Swiss gear to witnessing record-breaking performances and celebrating with fans from around the world. The city did a fantastic job hosting the Games, and we left with memories that will last a lifetime.
This trip was a powerful reminder of the unifying power of sport and the joy of being part of something much larger than ourselves. As we reflect on our week in Paris, we’re grateful for the experiences we shared and the friendships we strengthened along the way. Until the next Games, we’ll be cherishing these memories and looking forward to the next opportunity to see the world come together in the spirit of competition and camaraderie.
Now it’s time to start planning our trip to Milan in 2026 for the Winter Games!