Staying or leaving Paris during the Olympic Games?

The 2024 Olympic Games are upon us, and with them, a pressing question for Parisians : stay or leave? While some consider fleeing the capital in anticipation of the predicted chaos, others are determined to embrace the upcoming Olympic excitement. Anne Hidalgo, the mayor of Paris, recently inaugurated a new Olympic site, Arena de la Porte de la Chapelle, and called on Parisians to stay in the city and enjoy the event. However, this message struggles to convince some Parisians. Between the government's contradictory recommendations, the differing opinions of experts and associations, and the mixed reactions of Parisians, the choice between staying or leaving during the Olympics is far from straightforward.

The idea of seeing the capital transform into a giant human anthill gives many of us cold sweats. As one skeptical resident pointed out: « I have nothing against the Games, but Paris in the summer is already a logistical challenge. Add millions of tourists to the equation, and you get an explosive cocktail. » The 2024 Paris Olympic Games are expected to attract around 16 million international visitors, representing a significant increase from the city's usual visitor levels. To put this in perspective, during the 2012 London Games, the city hosted about 10 million visitors, but their area is not comparable. The size of inner London is 1,572 km², compared to just 105 km² for Paris. The predicted transportation disruptions are also alarming. Authorities plan to restrict traffic on 185 kilometers of lanes reserved for athletes, media, and the Olympic family. This will inevitably lead to traffic jams and delays for Parisians who rely on public transportation. As if that weren't enough, the threat of strikes by unions could further paralyze the network. Getting from point A to point B will be more like an obstacle course than a simple trip. Meanwhile, restaurants and bars plan to raise their prices to take advantage of the influx of tourists. This price hike could also be reflected in other sectors, including entertainment. As for the enhanced security measures, they promise to add an extra layer of constraints to a city already under a latent state of emergency. Restricted areas, endless checks, the freedom of movement for Parisians is likely to take a hit. In short, for those considering retreating far from the capital during this tumultuous period, the arguments are plentiful.

But, as in any debate, there are always those who choose to defy the elements and stay to face adversity. For them, the Games are much more than just a sporting competition; they are a celebration of the human spirit, unity, and diversity. As a sports enthusiast put it : « Yes, there will be crowds, yes, there will be disruptions, but that's also the spirit of the Games. An opportunity to come together, share emotions, and create unforgettable memories. » In Paris, this celebration will take on a special dimension, with a multitude of festive events planned throughout the city. From concerts to popular dances, Parisians will have the opportunity to gather with friends, family, or even make new acquaintances in a unique atmosphere. Initiations to various Olympic sports will be organized, and the cultural richness of the Games will be highlighted through exhibitions and artistic performances. According to various opinions, the event will offer Parisians the chance to rediscover their city from a new perspective. The city will be a stage for reunions between people from all over the world, allowing for exchanges and discoveries of new cultures without leaving one's neighborhood.

As Parisians grapple with an ocean of contradictory information and recommendations, the question of whether to stay or leave during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games remains more pressing than ever. Between Anne Hidalgo's call for Parisian pride, government recommendations, and the differing opinions of experts and associations, the choice is far from simple. Even if we are more tempted to retreat far from the capital, one thing is certain: the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games promise to be a historic event, full of both promises and challenges. Something we can witness or not from our smartphones.