Building Anticipation

Beginning the Journey to Paris 2024

As I sit waiting for the Eurostar to take me to Paris, it’s finally starting to feel real. When I departed the States just 4 days ago, it seemed like any other vacation, just a bit longer. I had a wonderful long layover in Iceland then spent 3 days exploring London. But not until the entry stamp was put into my passport by the French Border Police did I think, “Wow! Here we go!” I have told many people about this unique experience and they often light up with wonder. Until this point, I hadn’t experienced that feeling yet. When I was handed back my passport, it was a rush of excitement.

I cannot wait to experience everything.I originally decided to attend Paris 2024 in the start of 2023. A friend called me in the middle of the night stating she was selected in the lottery to purchase tickets to the Games. I, half asleep, said yes. It ended up being four of us committed to going. For various reasons, I am the only one who is able to attend. And I too, considered not traveling to the Games. But when I heard Dr. Neirotti was taking students, I knew I had to go. And here I am, off to my first Olympic Games.

I am looking forward to being surrounded by folks from around the world. It’ll be different than visiting a country, as there will be more than the locals. It’ll be a global community invested in the spirit, the competition, the growth of sport, the diplomacy, the Games. I am surely a chit chatter and cannot wait to meet new friends and find small world connections. I am nervous about not speaking French and navigating the city. The first time I visited Paris, my sister and I got lost quite often. The transportation app for the games looks very user friendly and should hopefully prevent any confusion.

That’s all I have for now. I can’t wait to see what I have to write about in the coming days. For more frequent updates, you can check out my Instagram @OnYaTravels. It’s bare bones at the moment but will surely be filled up come August 11th and the Closing Ceremony.

With Stars and Stripes,

Aine