With just seven months remaining before the Paris Games, there has been a significant increase in hotel prices. In anticipation of the rising hotel rates in the capital for the 2024 Paris Olympics, the practices of some Parisian hotels have been scrutinized. A study conducted by the magazine UFC-Que Choisir examined the prices offered online by 80 Parisian hotels.
The results are striking, with a 226% increase noted for the night of the opening ceremony on Friday, July 26, 2024. In 20% of the available hotels, the average price per night jumps from 317 euros to 1,033 euros.
Another criticized sales practice is the requirement to book multiple nights, with an average of 3.4 nights being required in 30% of the surveyed hotels, leading to increased expenses for tourists.
In response to the publication of this investigation, Frank Delvau, president of the Union des métiers et des industries de l’hôtellerie (Umih) Paris Île-de-France, has urged for “some moderation” in hotel room prices after the Olympic ceremony.
However, while advocating for moderation, the Umih president does not want to condemn these practices, as they were observed during the 2012 London Olympics. Regarding the requirement to book several nights, he admits to wanting to “limit” it. “Apparently, some hoteliers are doing it. As long as they are within the bounds of commerce…” he adds.
On the other hand, Frank Delvau is critical of the study conducted by UFC-Que Choisir, believing that “an overall study should be conducted rather than singling out a profession.” The president also remains optimistic for the upcoming months, stating that “prices will regulate themselves gradually.” He also points out that the rates displayed for the same period on Airbnb “are higher” than in hotels.
UFC-Que Choisir has already announced its intention to repeat the investigation when the prices of the many hotels that have not yet opened reservations for this crucial period in the summer of 2024 have been established. It remains to be seen if moderation and regulation have indeed been implemented. For more information, visit The HuffPost.
