My Experience The Olympics Summer 2024 as a Solo Traveller
My adventure began early Thursday morning as I boarded the Eurostar from London to Paris. The train, gliding smoothly under the Channel, whisked me away from the bustling streets of London into the heart of Paris in just a couple of hours. The excitement was palpable; I was on my way to witness the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.
Arriving in Paris, I could feel the city's vibrant energy, teeming with anticipation for the grand event. The streets were adorned with flags, banners, and an unmistakable Olympic buzz. I made my way to my hotel, just enough time to freshen up before heading to the ceremony.
The Opening Ceremony: A Bold Experiment
My ticket for the opening ceremony was a Category A ticket, priced at a hefty €1600. It promised an exceptional view, and indeed, it delivered. I found myself on the riverside, with the iconic Eiffel Tower standing majestically behind me in the background.
The ceremony began, and my first thought was "ambitious." That's the word I would use to describe the whole affair—not necessarily good or horrible, just ambitious. The athletes made their entrance not by walking into the stadium, but by floating in on boats along the Seine. While innovative, this approach, in my opinion, robbed the ceremony of some of the traditional Olympic energy. The athletes, sharing boats with others from different nations, lost the chance to bask in their unique moments of pride and excitement. Not to mention it was raining cats and dogs which was a huge pity.
Another issue that struck me was the overwhelming visual noise inherent in urban spaces. During daylight, the city's natural hustle and bustle detracted from the spectacle. Unlike a controlled stadium environment, where lighting and effects can be meticulously managed, the urban backdrop added an element of chaos that, at least for me, induced a sense of boredom. The reliance on pre-recorded footage for storytelling, perhaps a way to counteract this, felt cheap compared to the grandeur of previous ceremonies I would watch on television.
That said, there were moments of brilliance. Celine Dion's performance was a standout, captivating the audience with her powerful voice. The fashion show, blending modern fashion with a message of inclusivity, was peculiar but interesting. The nighttime light show on the Eiffel Tower was another highlight, though it stretched on for a bit too long and could have used more vibrant colors.
The ceremony wasn't without its hiccups. The Olympian flag being displayed upside-down was a shocking and inexcusable error, casting a shadow over the event's honor. However, the final parade, where numerous athlete celebrities carried the torch, was a touching moment. It was a departure from the usual single-celebrity torch relay and added a collective sense of pride and achievement.
A Disappointing Torch Design
One of the biggest letdowns for me was the torch design. I had expected a piece of art that embodied Parisian elegance and creativity, but it turned out to be bland and uninspiring. It was a missed opportunity to showcase the city's renowned design prowess.
Overall, I'd rate the opening ceremony a 5/10, maybe even a 4/10. While it was certainly innovative, it missed the mark on several key aspects of what makes an Olympic ceremony memorable. The ambition was there, but the execution faltered, leaving me yearning for the magic that previous ceremonies have delivered.
As I reflect on the experience, I can't help but appreciate the boldness of the attempt, even if it didn't entirely succeed. The Paris 2024 Olympics have just begun, and I look forward to seeing how the rest of the games unfold.
Artistic Gymnastics on Saturday 27th of July at 8 pm
After yesterday’s opening ceremony, I was eager to immerse myself in the Olympic events, and one of the highlights was watching the men's Artistic Gymnastics competition at 8 PM. The anticipation had been building all day, and as I made my way to the venue, the energy in the air was electric.
The gymnastics venue was abuzz with excitement. Fans from around the world filled the seats, their faces painted with the colors of their nations' flags, waving banners, and cheering for their favorite athletes. The state-of-the-art facility was impressive, with its modern design and excellent seating arrangements, ensuring that everyone had a great view of the action.
As the competition began, the gymnasts, each representing their country, took to the floor with incredible precision and grace. Every routine was a testament to years of hard work and dedication. The high bar, pommel horse, rings, vault, parallel bars, and floor exercises were executed with a level of skill that left the audience in awe.
One of the most memorable moments was when a gymnast from Japan performed an almost flawless routine on the rings. The strength and control he displayed were simply breathtaking, and the crowd erupted in applause as he stuck the landing. Similarly, an American gymnast's high bar routine was a thrilling spectacle, filled with daring flips and spins that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
Boxing Sunday 28th 15:30
On Sunday, July 28th, I had the opportunity to attend the men's boxing matches with the event starting at 3:30 PM. My seat was in Category D, which provided a decent view of the ring and allowed me to soak in the atmosphere of the event. Despite being in Category D, I had a clear view of the ring, and the large screens ensured I didn't miss any of the action. The setup was impressive, with the ring illuminated under the bright lights and surrounded by enthusiastic fans.
The matches kicked off promptly, and the intensity was palpable from the first bell. Each bout was a display of skill, strength, and strategy. The boxers, representing various countries, brought their unique styles and techniques to the ring, making each match an exciting spectacle. The back-and-forth action kept the audience on the edge of their seats, with every punch and defensive move eliciting cheers and gasps from the crowd.
Badminton monday 29th 08:30
On Monday, July 29th, I attended the badminton matches at the Paris 2024 Olympics, with the event starting bright and early at 8:30 AM. The excitement of the Olympics was still fresh, and I was eager to witness the speed and precision of world-class badminton players.
The badminton venue was a bustling hive of early morning activity. The stadium, though not completely filled at such an early hour, was buzzing with enthusiastic fans and the soft hum of shuttlecocks being hit back and forth. My seat offered a great view of the court, allowing me to fully appreciate the action.
The morning session featured several thrilling matches. Each game was a showcase of incredible agility, speed, and skill. The precision with which the athletes played was mesmerizing, as they leapt and dived across the court to make seemingly impossible shots.
One match that stood out was between a Danish player and his opponent from Indonesia. The Danish player’s deft touch and quick reflexes were matched by the Indonesian’s powerful smashes and relentless energy. The rallies were intense, with both players pushing each other to their limits, resulting in a nail-biting match that kept the audience enthralled.
The Atmosphere
Despite the early hour, the atmosphere in the venue was lively and filled with anticipation. The crowd, though smaller than in the afternoon or evening sessions, was highly engaged, cheering enthusiastically for every spectacular rally and point scored. The sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship was palpable, with fans from different countries coming together to celebrate the sport.
Personal Reflections
Watching badminton live at the Olympics was an exhilarating experience. The speed and precision of the game are truly something to behold in person. Each match was a testament to the athletes’ training and dedication, as well as their mental and physical agility.
Being there, I could truly appreciate the nuances of the game that often get lost on television. The strategic placement of shots, the deceptive moves, and the sheer athleticism required to play at this level were all on full display. It was a fantastic reminder of why badminton is such a beloved and exciting sport.
Swimming Tuesday 20:30
On Tuesday evening, at 8:30 PM, I had the pleasure of attending my last event at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Swimming has always been one of the most thrilling and highly anticipated Olympic sports, and I was eager to witness the world's best swimmers compete live.
My seat provided an okay view of the pool, allowing me to semi-immerse myself in the action. The evening was filled with a series of exhilarating races. The precision, speed, and technique displayed by the athletes were awe-inspiring. Each race was a nail-biting affair, with swimmers pushing themselves to the limits, slicing through the water with incredible agility and power. One of the standout races was the men's 100m freestyle final. The competition was fierce, with swimmers from the USA, Australia, and France among the favorites. The race was incredibly close, with the lead changing hands multiple times.
Every time a swimmer broke the surface of the water, the crowd would roar with excitement. The announcer’s voice boomed through the speakers, adding to the intensity of the moment. The combination of the crowd’s enthusiasm and the athletes’ extraordinary performances created a great experience.
My Stay at Hôtel Monge
Traveling solo during the Olympics was an adventure of a lifetime, and staying at Hôtel Monge in the heart of Paris made it even more memorable. Tucked away in the 5th arrondissement, this boutique hotel is an absolute gem—full of charm, elegance, and a tranquil atmosphere that was a perfect retreat from the bustling city.
The first thing that struck me was the hotel's impeccable decor. It's beautifully styled, with a mix of modern comfort and classic Parisian elegance. My room, though not large by American standards, was perfectly sized for me as a solo traveler. I loved the view from my window overlooking the Arenes de Lutece—a quiet, almost secret piece of Parisian history right in the backyard. It felt like a private glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Location-wise, Hôtel Monge is unbeatable. It’s nestled in a quieter part of Paris but still close enough to the action. I found myself walking just 10 minutes to reach Notre Dame and only 15 minutes to the Saint-Michel station, which connects to pretty much everywhere you’d want to go in Paris—Versailles, the Eiffel Tower, or even the airport. One of my favorite routines quickly became a leisurely 30-minute walk along the Seine to the Louvre, soaking in the iconic sights.
Convenience was key during the Olympics, and the proximity to two Metro lines made getting around the city a breeze. Plus, there’s a lovely greenmarket at Place Monge twice a week, which became my go-to spot for fresh fruit and pastries in the morning. It was a delight to start the day with a stroll through the market before heading off to explore the city.
One of the standout aspects of my stay was the service. The staff at Hôtel Monge are incredibly attentive and friendly, always ready with a smile and a helping hand. The concierge team deserves a special shoutout—they were like my personal guides to the city. Whether I needed a restaurant recommendation or directions to an obscure art gallery, they had the best suggestions and made sure my experience was top-notch.
Let’s talk about comfort—because after a long day of exploring and navigating the Olympic crowds, coming back to a cozy room was essential. The mattress was superb, the AC kept the room perfectly cool, and the blackout shades ensured I got a good night’s sleep. These little details really made a difference.
I also appreciated the honor bar in the lounge—a nice touch that added to the feeling of luxury without being over the top. After a day of sightseeing, it was the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine before heading out for dinner.
While the rates were steep, especially during the Olympics, I felt that the overall experience justified the cost. The quality of the property, the comfort of the room, and the exemplary service made it worth every penny. I imagine that the rates might be more reasonable outside of such a high-demand period, and I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again.
Hôtel 4 étoiles du Rond-Point des Champs-Elysées
From the moment you lay eyes on the gleaming exterior of Hotel du Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées, you can feel its Art Deco charm calling out. Stepping inside, you’re immediately transported back in time, with polished marble floors guiding your way into an ambiance that feels both classic and comfortable. As a solo traveler, this boutique hotel was the perfect blend of style and tranquility during my stay in Paris.
I was lucky enough to be upgraded to a spacious and stylish suite, a gesture that set the tone for a wonderful experience. The room was perfectly soundproofed, which meant that despite being right in the heart of Paris, I enjoyed a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The decor, with its 1920s-inspired velvet furniture and striped wallpaper, was elegant yet inviting, making the room feel like a relaxing retreat.
The adjoining bathroom was another highlight—complete with soft bathrobes that were perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Other room perks? A coffee machine, plenty of wardrobe space, and a flat-screen TV. Everything about the space exuded calmness, with warm, soft lighting that felt like a cozy escape from the energy of Paris outside.
Though my room was stunning, the real crown jewel of the hotel has to be the Parisienne Suite. Situated on the 8th floor, this two-room suite offers breathtaking views of both the Sacré-Cœur and the Eiffel Tower, putting you right above the Parisian skyline. For anyone seeking to live the high life—this is it.
Despite being a boutique hotel, the Hotel Du Rond is packed with amenities. The underground swimming pool and hammam were an unexpected surprise, offering a perfect way to relax. The Daphne Bar was a charming spot to grab a drink upon arrival, and for those like me who need to mix work with pleasure, there’s a spotless meeting room that came in handy.
Breakfast was a treat, with a generous spread of organic options available between 7 and 11 am. While I’m not a huge morning person, I appreciated that you could have your breakfast delivered to your room for those lazy Paris mornings.
The only minor downside I encountered was the lack of room service late at night. After a long day out, I found myself without any food options after hours, so be mindful if you’re returning late.
Location-wise, this hotel is a dream. Just steps away from the Champs-Élysées, you’re close to metro stops, restaurants, and shops. Despite its proximity to the city’s liveliest spots, the hotel still manages to feel like a quiet sanctuary.
And, finally, a shoutout to the staff—they really made my stay memorable. From helpful suggestions to fluent English, they went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect. Special thanks to Sercan, whose kindness and professionalism made my stay that much more enjoyable.
In short, Hotel Du Rond hits all the marks for a solo traveler looking for a mix of style, comfort, and convenience in the heart of Paris. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or just a solo adventure, this hotel has all the charm you need. Highly recommended, and I’ll definitely be back!
