Although the game succeeds in capturing the attention of many people, if only for a short time, the enthusiasm is not universal.
“I'm not excited. I don't think Paris is the right place for that,” said student Melissa, who suggested other cities might be better equipped to handle crowds.
There were concerns that the city's infrastructure would be overwhelmed by the influx of tourists, but some of the city's central streets and metro stations were eerily quiet, perhaps because many locals had left the city for the summer.
On Saturday, some barriers remained in place on Île Saint-Louis, an island in the Seine River that was closed off for the opening ceremony. Footfall appeared relatively low.
Some businesses that are open say it is not yet clear whether the influx of Olympic tourists will make up for lost trade. The Olympics are good news for France, but “it’s not good for business,” said one restaurant owner, pointing to a row of empty tables.
As they headed south, spectators and athletes began to flock to the bars and cafes of the Latin Quarter, but one Greek restaurant, called Olympie, was noticeably closed.
“It doesn't matter that the Olympics are in Paris,” said Jean-Louis, a restaurant owner who was rushing to grab a passing customer.
He said of the Olympics, “This is just a French perspective, not reality.” He said poverty is a more important issue for millions of people. After all, he said, “The Olympics don't feed me.”
