BRUSSELS, February 17. /ITAR-TASS/. The Sochi Olympics have fulfilled their goal of creating a joyful international sport holiday, Belgium’s leading French-speaking newspaper, Le Soir, wrote on Monday.

The newspaper said that the Games’ organization met highest world standards and that an atmosphere of a happy holiday was reigning in Sochi.

“A new transport infrastructure, including railroads, that was created for the Games makes it possible for all guests to move quickly and freely between the main Olympic facilities. The system runs surprisingly easily without any breakdowns,” Le Soir went on to say.

The Belgian daily praised a system of chairlifts. “They can make the frequenters of Alpine skiing resorts in Savoie (the French Alps) feel envious,” the newspaper said in its report from Sochi.

Athletes pay attention to excellently equipped sport centers and training gyms that are located in one territory and are extremely convenient for use. Besides, the newspaper went on to say, athletes are pleased with minimal short distances that separate their hotels from the sport facilities. “A great number of events that are not linked to sport; music and excellent colorful illumination create an additional festive atmosphere in the evening; while the warm weather which has complicated competitions in some disciplines take the guests of the Games who go down to the sea from winter into summer,” Le Soir emphasized.

The newspaper also pointed to some shortcomings such as menu that lacks diversity; high restaurant prices and queues in souvenir shops which do not have a very rich offer and, finally, heaps of construction garbage left over on the roadside in the city outskirts.

At the same time, the all-round police presence and serious security measures are not creating a feeling of pressure and threat.

The newspaper also praised the work of numerous volunteers in bright costumes and with broad smiles on their faces who have a good command of English. “They create the impression of a young and smiling Russia,” Le Soir wrote.

“Sochi has certainly won its Olympic bet,” the newspaper said in conclusion.