With the 2024 Olympics in Paris set to illuminate the city, international students around the world are buzzing with excitement. Not only does this event promise to showcase the pinnacle of global athletic talent, but it also offers a unique opportunity for students dreaming of living and studying in France.
This guide is your passport to navigating the Olympics, enriching your educational journey, and embracing the French culture.
Key Dates & Venues
The opening ceremony is scheduled for July 26, 2024. It will mark the official start of the Games, igniting the Olympic flame in the heart of Paris. Following the opening, the city will be alive with competition, cultural events, and celebrations, culminating in the closing ceremony on August 11, 2024 at Stade de France.
Here are some key dates:
- 16 April: Olympic flame lighting ceremony in Olympia
- 8 May: Arrival of the Olympic flame in Marseille
- 23 June: Olympic Day
- 26 July: Olympic Games Opening Ceremony
- 11 August: Olympic Games Closing Ceremony
Read more about the key dates and venues here: https://gogofrance.com/en/blog/4-months-before-paris-2024/
New Sports
As the Olympic flame draws closer to Paris, the sporting world buzzes with excitement over the addition of 4 new disciplines: breaking, skateboarding, surfing, and climbing. These sports reflect the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) mission to modernize the games and engage a younger audience.
If you are excited by these new disciplines and would like to know who the French hopefuls for the medals are, read our article here: https://gogofrance.com/en/blog/olympics-paris-2024-new-sports/
Accommodation
Securing accommodation during the Olympics can be challenging, given the influx of visitors to Paris. Start your search early to find affordable housing options. As an international student, you should consider dormitories, which may offer short-term leases, or explore shared apartments with French students to cut costs.
This approach fosters a spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange between French students and international students. By taking advantage of this opportunity, you can enjoy an authentic Parisian experience while supporting the local student community.
See how Go! Go! France can help you secure accommodation here: https://gogofrance.com/en/accommodation-in-france/
Transportation
Paris is renowned for its efficient public transport system, comprising the métro, buses, and trams. During the Olympics, expect additional services and possibly free travel days for ticket holders. Familiarize yourself with the transport map and consider purchasing a Navigo Pass for unlimited travel.
Biking is another excellent way to explore Paris, with Vélib’ offering convenient bike-sharing services.
Here is a list of the main train stations and airports in and around Paris: https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/spectator/getting-to-and-around-france
Health and Safety
Safety is paramount, especially during large-scale events like the Olympics. Stay informed about safety guidelines and emergency procedures. The French government and local authorities will provide extensive information on how to stay safe during the Games. Additionally, ensure you have health insurance coverage suitable for your stay in France.
If you need to see a doctor during your stay or feel a bit dizzy and need over-the-counter medicine, read our articles here:
– https://gogofrance.com/en/blog/medical-terms-in-french/
– https://gogofrance.com/en/blog/what-you-can-buy-at-pharmacies-in-france/
Learning French During the 2024 Olympics in Paris
The Olympics provide a perfect backdrop for immersing yourself in the French language. Engage with locals, volunteers, and fellow students in French to practice your skills. Many cultural events and exhibitions will be hosted around the city, offering a chance to learn more about French history and society while honing your language proficiency.
We invite you to explore our programs designed for international students who wish to experience the best of French education and culture. Whether you’re looking to improve your French, understand French culture, or simply live an unforgettable adventure, we have an option for you. Contact us for more information.
