Paris is set to host the 2024 Olympics this summer, with only 30% of event attendees from abroad. The real value for the destination lies in the images of professional breakdancing, skateboarding, and other urban sports in the heart of Paris, showcasing the city’s involvement in urban culture. The impact of the Olympics on Paris, the American market’s performance, and the reasons behind Paris je t’aime not paying influencers were discussed in a conversation with Corinne Menegaux, director general of Paris je t’aime, the city’s tourism board.
Menegaux mentioned that American tourists have been crucial to Paris’s tourism recovery, particularly in driving the high-end luxury market. However, this demand has stabilized due to currency stabilization. Despite the expectations that the Olympics would make Paris too expensive for tourists, Menegaux believes that prices will increase slightly but still be reasonable compared to other cities that hosted the games. With only 30% of attendees coming from abroad, the Olympics may not be a major driver of tourism in 2024.
The Olympics in Paris will be a way to showcase a new dynamic in the city, focusing on promoting urban culture and showcasing Paris as a greener city than before. The event will provide incredible visuals of Paris as a city that embraces new disciplines such as urban climbing, skateboarding, and breakdancing. Menegaux emphasized the importance of the legacy of the Olympics, particularly the Paralympics, in promoting values of inclusion that will continue to resonate in Paris. A new place, Spot24, has been opened near the Eiffel Tower, featuring an Olympic exhibition and highlighting the blend of sports and urban culture.
Paris je t’aime does not pay influencers for marketing because they believe in showcasing the authentic love people have for Paris. The focus is on gathering individuals who genuinely love the city and leveraging their passion to spread the word about Paris. By allowing people to share their unique experiences and stories of Paris, the organization aims to show the city from different perspectives and highlight its diverse and ever-changing nature. Instead of paid collaborations, Paris je t’aime works with ambassadors such as athletes and young people in new disciplines to proudly showcase the Paris destination and express their love for the city without monetary incentives.
