I almost canceled the whole thing. Sold my tickets. Bid adieu to the idea of seeing the world's greatest athletes compete on the biggest world stage. Planning a trip to the Olympics in Paris this summer felt completely overwhelming. What about crowds? And astronomical costs? And sweaty summer heat? I thought I would never figure it all out.
And suddenly, flights weren't as expensive as I thought. I started to hatch a plan to stay outside of Paris in Orléans, away from some of the crowds and high lodging costs. I found a perfect Airbnb near the cathedral. I could imagine cheering in the stands for Olympic tennis at Roland-Garros one day and day tripping into wine country the next. My Olympic travel dream finally made sense.
So I'm going. I don't expect this adventure to be uncomplicated or without snags. I'm sure other, more seasoned Olympic spectators have more sensible and detailed plans. But like the athletes who are chasing a lifetime of dreams into the arenas, swimming pools and playing fields of France this summer, I do expect this Olympics to be memorable. And in the end, what more can you ask of travel? Here's to going for gold. Bonne chance to all of us.
– Laura Motta, Senior Director of Content
