With the Olympic Games in Paris just a week away, the city is buzzing with last-minute preparations. Despite the challenges, there are still tickets available for eager fans, with daily offerings expected until the end of the games.
The city's iconic landmarks, such as Place de la Concorde, are undergoing final construction work behind barriers. Along the Seine and on the bridges, numerous grandstands have been set up, ready for the opening ceremony, which will be celebrated on the river for the first time ever.
Paris aims to make a grand impression with a spectacular procession of over 10,000 athletes crossing the Seine on boats, passing by famous landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. The opening ceremony, featuring 3,000 dancers and actors, will playfully incorporate French stereotypes.
Security forces, including 800 special units and experts in drone defense, will be on high alert, as the event will also serve as a test of their capabilities. Athletes have begun moving into the Olympic Village, which can accommodate up to 14,500 people on its expansive grounds.
The apartments, equipped with sturdy cardboard beds, will be converted into residential and office spaces after the games. Furthermore, Paris has made significant efforts to clean the Seine, allowing swimming competitions to take place in the river.
With an expected attendance of over 15 million visitors, including 15% from abroad, the prices in Paris have skyrocketed, such as the cost of a metro ticket, which will double during the Olympic Games. The games will feature 32 disciplines, including new additions like surfing, climbing, breaking, and skateboarding.
Despite the political crisis in France due to early elections, President Emmanuel Macron has made the Olympics a top priority. All in all, Paris is ready to host this prestigious sporting event, and excitement is building as the countdown to the games continues.
