It’s the Olympics Again?!?
Suggestions for Journaling or Joining the Conversation
(An interest in sports is not required!)
Feeling a bit left out of Olympic conversations because you lack sports knowledge? Don’t want to get involved in political discussions?
This is natural when you’re trying to learn another language and want to talk with others, but if you are trying to learn another language, you need to find ways into current international events, like the Olympics, and still feel comfortable contributing.
I’ve put together a list of suggestions that will help you find something interesting to contribute beyond sports and stereotypes. The suggestions can greatly improve your fluency, listening skills, vocabulary, reading — basically everything!
They require some thinking and a bit of research, but there are plenty of options for whatever your interests and level may be.
Visit Italy Vicariously
Passionate about food and travel? The Olympics are a perfect opportunity to research and share information about the regions of Milano and Cortina. The 2026 Games are the first ever to be co-hosted host by two cities, so there’re twice as many opportunities to enjoy the cultures, stunning scenery and architecture of Italy’s diverse regions. Start planning your trip– look at photos of venues, accommodations, sightseeing places, and cuisine offered to visitors and athletes. You’ll be surprised to see how many rich variations there are.
Name Dropping
It’s fine to be proud and excited about your country’s medal haul, but be prepped with the full names of athletes and the correct names of events. There are more events than ever in 2026, but information you need is readily available on the official Olympic Games guide app, as well social media from all the teams. Checking schedules and daily updates is a quick way to keep up with the discussion without any actual knowledge of sports! You will benefit from a better understanding of names from different languages , so test your listening skills with event commentary in English on other media platforms. Find out if any athletes come from your city, area, or prefecture. Everyone enjoys stories of hometown heroes or inspiring podium appearances.
What’s Going Viral?
Olympics fans and athletes are all over social media sharing once in a lifetime experiences. There’re so many fun and amazing short form videos from both official and fan channels, so watch a few and then describe them. You can get ready with athletes as they start their day, or follow fans around the venues and streets on livestreams. What is your pick for most memorable viral moment from 2026 so far? Bite sized stories are great icebreakers and keep the Olympic conversation light.
We’re almost halfway through Milano-Cortina, so check back soon for more suggestions!
Carole
Omiya West
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