This year, the Winter Olympics aren¡¯t just a distant broadcast for Japanese fans in Europe ¡ª with competitions in Milan and Cortina d¡¯Ampezzo, the action is happening right under their feet. The events are far more accessible and affordable for Europe-based expats than recent Winter Games, giving fans a rare chance to witness it firsthand.
The 2026 Milano Cortina Games, the first Winter Games in Western Europe since 2006, open on Friday and continue through Feb. 22. Competitions will take place across multiple hubs, making this one of the most geographically spread-out editions ever.
Even for those on the continent, attending the Games in person comes with its own challenges. Fans are eagerly sharing tips online to make the most of their time on the ground, from securing tickets and discovering local gems to planning a smooth, safe trip. Coordinating the journey has become a friendly competition in itself.
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