Jami, a 28-year-old Malaysian, shared her exciting first-hand experience attending the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics with WeirdKaya. The event, held at the Seine, marked a significant moment as Paris hosts the Olympics for the first time since 1924.
Spends RM2,500 to purchase ticket for the opening ceremony
Speaking to WeirdKaya, Jami shared that she spent 500 Euros (~RM2527) to attend the opening ceremony and was the last person to secure a ticket for the D area.
She described the atmosphere as electrifying, with a vibrant display of French culture and heritage. The ceremony featured spectacular performances, stunning light shows, and a parade of athletes worldwide.
In a video shared by Jami, she can be seen holding a Jalur Gemilang while shouting “Malaysia Boleh” as the boat carrying the Malaysian contingent passed by.
She highlighted the pride she felt seeing the Malaysian athletes and noted the efficient organization and the welcoming spirit of the French hosts.
Jami shares first-hand experience at Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony
Despite the overall positive experience, Jami faced some challenges due to the outdoor setting and unexpected rain.
“Unfortunately, the organizers did not provide raincoats or any rain shelters, so everyone had to watch in the rain. I watched most of the ceremony on the screens at the venue,” she told WeirdKaya.
She further added that her ticketed seat only offered a view of the athletes entering and the white horse carrying the Olympic flag across the Seine.
“Beyond that, there wasn’t much to see, but it was all about soaking in the atmosphere,” she added.
A money-can’t-buy experience
She also told WeirdKaya that this is a money-can’t-buy experience.
“For me, cheering for our national team made the 500 Euros well spent,” Jami added.
Despite attending alone, Jami received generous assistance from international friends—from securing tickets to helping with accommodation.
“I received help from people from different countries around me. A friend from Mainland China helped me get the tickets, a friend from Macau assisted with accommodation, a friend from Singapore took the videos, and a friend from Peru took the photos… Through this event, I felt the warmth from around the world.”
Her trip revolves around the Olympic opening ceremony, but she also plans to attend other events, particularly those featuring the Malaysian team.
“When I’m not at the Olympics, I’ll be exploring Europe and soaking in its rich cultural tapestry.”
Jami also expressed gratitude to her friends who helped make her dream trip possible.
“I’m very thankful to my friends who helped me get the tickets and found me cheap flights, which made it easier to stay within my budget and fulfill my dream of coming to Europe,” she said.
The Paris Olympics aims to celebrate unity and sportsmanship, bringing together athletes from various countries to compete in a wide range of sports. The opening ceremony set a positive tone for the games, showcasing France’s capability to host an event of this magnitude.
