OK, a word or two about the Paris Olympics. One fact of life in Paris in August is this: It’s holiday season. In other words, vacation time. In my conversation with one of my contacts at the most controversial restaurant in Paris, he said, “I’ll watch the Olympics. But I’ll watch them on TV while on vacation relaxing on the beach in southern France.”
I heard the same refrain about not working during the Olympics during several conversations with servers and contacts. Which makes me wonder, who will feed everyone?
I think, by this point, it’s clear that you go to the Olympics to watch the events, not necessarily to experience the essence of a city. Yes, there will be plenty of touristy places to eat, and those traveling with private chefs won’t starve, thank goodness. But with the expected crowds, heat, and traffic, what can be a hot-tempered experience may be scalding.
Remember, the shape of Paris is a bowl, which can make it feel like you’re cooking or, better yet, cooked when it’s steamy outside.
Yes, I’m sure NBC’s Mike Tirico will be energetic and smiling for the Friday, July 27 opening ceremonies, and I expect it to be a good show for Paris. But a great reason to visit after the games is all the work being put into the city right now. But don’t go to see the Olympics and expect it to be the Paris we’ve come to love. And that’s OK. It shouldn’t be. This is a chance for Paris to shine brightly and be a host to the world. I’m looking forward to watching the games, like my Parisian friend above, from the comfort of my couch.
Action Line: Plan your trip to Paris now. Because once “the games begin,” it will be the hardest reservation in the world. Let’s talk when you get back. In the meantime, click here to subscribe to my free monthly Survive & Thrive letter.
