Feb 17 • 15:11 UTC 🇱🇻 Latvia LSM

Expensive Olympic Souvenirs, Crowds of Tourists, and Pickpockets – Guests Evaluate What They Saw in Milan

Visitors in Milan share mixed feelings about the city during the Olympic Games, discussing expensive souvenirs, ticket prices, and lack of fan zones.

As the Olympic Games unfold in Milan, the city's streets are filled with a diverse mix of supporters from Latvia, Canada, the United States, and Australia. Perspectives on the cost of tickets and souvenirs vary significantly, with many attendees indicating that their decision to visit was well-considered rather than impulsive. Some visitors describe a surprising juxtaposition in prices, noting that while certain local cafes offer fine coffee and pastries at more affordable rates than in Riga, Olympic-themed souvenirs can be unusually expensive, with the cheapest items starting at around 30 euros.

The overall atmosphere in Milan appears less focused on the Olympic spirit than expected. Fans supporting the Latvian hockey team have voiced disappointment about the lack of dedicated fan zones, with only one screen available to watch games near the new arenas and numerous restrictions that detract from the experience compared to what they have encountered at prior world championships. This sentiment is echoed by visitors from other countries, who comment on the city's readiness—or lack thereof—for hosting the Olympic Games, feeling that it does not offer an optimal environment for the anticipated festivities.

Despite the excitement surrounding the Olympics, the city seems to be underprepared; the local amenities available for tourists and fans, such as hospitality zones or sufficient public entertainment options, are sparse. This could have significant implications for Milan’s reputation as a host city. If the tourist experience does not meet expectations, it could dissuade future visitors from choosing Milan for major events, impacting the city's long-term tourism and economic prospects.

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