Paris, typically the most visited city in the world, is experiencing an unexpected downturn in tourism despite hosting the Olympic Games. The usual summer hustle and bustle is noticeably absent, with significantly fewer tourists than anticipated.
Operators of tour boats along the Seine River, a popular attraction, have reported a sharp decline in passengers.
“Normally, July and August are our strongest months. This year, we’re down 25% compared to last year. August isn’t looking very good. Usually, the boats are full, and today we have about 40-50 people per departure,” said one operator.
Several factors are contributing to this decline. Restricted access to some of the city’s most famous monuments, heightened security concerns, and high accommodation prices have deterred many potential visitors. While the areas immediately surrounding the Olympic venues are relatively busy, the rest of Paris appears much quieter.
Airline group Air France-KLM has reported a $200 million hit to revenues this quarter, attributing the loss to tourists avoiding Paris. Taxi driver Becky Gian echoed this sentiment, noting a significant drop in business. “Our daily revenue must be at least 50% down. Usually, our customers are Parisians, but since the authorities have made it clear for Parisians to leave the capital to make way for tourists, we no longer have any Parisians and very few tourists. We are really disappointed. We were promised work, but we have anything but.”
Restaurant owners are also feeling the pinch. Olivier Flotz canceled summer holidays for his staff in anticipation of a tourist influx, only to find Paris nearly deserted.
“Paris is empty. I’ve never seen Paris this empty, never. There is no one in the taxis, hotels, or restaurants. This is the reality. We really hope that what we are enduring today will be rewarded tomorrow with improved business.”
In response to the dwindling numbers, the Paris tourist office reported that average hotel prices have recently dropped to attract last-minute travelers put off by initial high prices. This adjustment might present an opportune moment for those considering a trip to the City of Light.