Olympic Games

Photo: Ank Kumar, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Olympic Games are a series of sport events held between each two years. Each game of summer and winter is held respectively between 4 years. The Summer Olympics are one of the most watched sporting events in the world, rivalled only by the FIFA World Cup.
UnderstandThe ancient Olympic Games are traditionally said to have first been held in Ancient Greece in 776 BC.
CitiesIn the early years, Summer Olympics were often held over a course of several months and competitors were not clearly separate from the general population, meaning pretty much anybody could show up and participate.
Getting ticketsAccessibility of tickets varies greatly. Opening and closing ceremonies are very desired, as are finals and medal ceremonies, while tickets to minor events can in some cases be obtained at entrance.
TalkThe official languages of the Olympics, Paralympics, and the IOC are English and French. To some extent, ceremonies are conducted in both languages as well as a primary language of the host country.
SleepAvailability of travel accommodation has varied a lot between games. As a general rule: The smaller the city, the bigger the price-gouging.
TransportA key element of enjoying the Games is transport. If you can't get around or are lost, it's not a good feeling. There is a lot of designated transport just for the games - specifically trains and buses.
Plan Your DayYou need to be familiar with the sports and how they work. You probably want to go to medal events, if so, note when they are. Although a pool match or earlier round could still be exciting.
Examples of the Olympic Games
OthersBesides the Olympic Games, there are also other multi-sport events that are organised loosely based on the format of the Olympics, albeit on a smaller scale.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Olympic Games" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Ank Kumar, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
