What Do Olympics and Paralympics Mean to London Travel?

The 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympics games will be held in London July 27-Aug 12 and Aug 29-Sep 9 respectively. What can you do now to minimize impact on your business travel?

Review Your London Travel Needs

Review your anticipated travel for July-September. What projects, conferences, or meetings might require travelers to be in London during this time? Remember that London is a major connecting point for many international destinations, including a frequent overnight stop on some African routings. Consider not only the need to have travelers IN London, but the impact on travelers possibly connecting through London as well.

Restrict Travel to London

If possible, impose a travel black-out during the Games. No travel to or through London during this time. Schedule client visits and meetings to take place in June or October, or better yet, move them to an alternate location.

Book Essential Travel Now

If you have essential business in London that absolutely cannot be moved or rescheduled book it now! This is particularly true for hotel rooms. Hotel space is already at a premium and priced accordingly. If you are unable to secure accommodations at hotels in the city consider trying extended-stay properties, corporate apartments, or hotels outside the city.

Allow Extra Time

Remind both travelers and employees living in London to allow plenty of extra time to move around the city. Heightened security and the increase in athletes and spectators will combine to create traffic jams. Public transportation will be crowded.

For more information check out www.london2012.com, which includes FAQs, schedules, maps, and venue information, a video on preparing for the Games, and much more."