00:00Today, the Winter Olympics returned to Europe.
00:05The snow cannons are ready, but nature was faster, covering the Italian slopes in the real thing.
00:12And the International Olympic Committee promises the emotions will be just as real.
00:18So who will be the winner?
00:21Early data showed Americans drive over a third of foreign spending, and the bills are huge.
00:27Australians average over 2,500 euros per booking, while the Dutch pay over 1,300.
00:34And what about the Italians?
00:37Because tickets are quite pricey, it looks like many of them are staying home.
00:42But maybe it is easier to watch from the sofa.
00:45These are the most dispersed Olympics in history, spreading over 22,000 square kilometers.
00:52So if you want to see skiing after skating, get yourself ready for a 5-hour drive.
00:59And the organizers promise these games will be green.
01:02So let's cross fingers for that and hope it doesn't end like Sochi 2014 Winter Games in Russia.
01:09And that ended with illegal waste dumps in national parks, and a massive price tag fueled by corruption.
01:16However, we won't see their flag this time, as Russia is banned because of its invasion of Ukraine.
01:23And what about the locals?
01:26In a recent survey, the majority of them foresee a positive regional impact and lasting improvements to infrastructure and transport.
01:35And if they are right, the lasting price won't be the skiing, but a region finally connected for good.
01:43Let's just hope that during this Olympics, the only ice locals have to deal with is the one on the mountains.
