A few days before the opening of the Winter Olympics in Sochi, many western journalists joyfully reported about the drawbacks that they came across upon their arrival to the city. They complained of dirty dangerous water, not very comfy rooms and dual toilets.
Yet, most guests were amazed with what they saw in Sochi. The opening ceremony could not leave anyone indifferent and struck everyone's imagination with its beauty and grandness. These Games are not for the president or for a certain group of high ranking officials. These Games are for everyone.
Dmitry Bykov, writer
"The Olympics for the country is a very interesting event. There is so much to see and it definitely makes the Russian atmosphere exciting. As for defects and drawbacks, one can find them everywhere. Athletes are presumably young people, and I think that for them this is not a big a tragedy. Quite on the contrary, this is an adventure. Russia has never been strong for its comfort, but the atmosphere in the Olympic Village will be great."
Foreign delegations and journalists had to admit that everything had been prepared on a top level.
Dmitry Dovgalenok, the chief of the Belarusian mission to Sochi
"My impressions are very warm, because Russia for us is the closest country. First off, it was very nice when Patriarch Kirill invited us and held a prayer service. Athletes were impressed. As for the lack of the internet and other minor problems, the organizing committee is trying to solve everything. For them it is a big event. I think it will all be a success."
We can only wish all athletes best of luck at the Games. Did you enjoy watching the opening ceremony?
