In preparation for the London Olympics 2012 we would recommend all travellers to start planning for it and talk to clients and associates to discuss whether travel is essential between July and September 2012 and, if so, to make any arrangements well in advance.
Key Dates
Olympic Games: 17 days, from 27th July to 12th August
Opening Ceremony: Friday 27th July
Closing Ceremony: Sunday 12th August
Paralympic Games: 12 days, from 29th August to 9th September
Opening Ceremony: Wednesday 29th August
Closing Ceremony: Sunday 9h September
Key Facts
Airlines expect unprecedented demand for flights to and from all London airports between July and September 2012. Hotel availability in London in particular will be under severe strain:
Total hotel rooms a night in London: 120,000
Allocated to Olympics Commitee: 52,000
Allocated to Olympics Visitors: 50,000
Available to general public: 18,000 (only 15% of usual availability)
Demand for services on National Rail, London Underground, London Buses and the Docklands Light Railway are all expected to exceed capacity at peak times during the Games.
Key Points
• It will be big
• It will have an effect pre and post Games
• It is on top of an already busy schedule in London/South East
• Expect a large increase in volume of people and traffic
• Expect heightened security throughout London
• Expect queues at airport border controls
• Preferred hotel rates may not be available
• Remember it is not just London
A Busy Summer 2012
1 – 2 June: EPSOM DERBY
2 – 5 June: QUEEN ELIZABETH DIAMOND JUBILEE
21 June – 9 September: LONDON 2012 FESTIVAL
23 June – 8 July: WORLD PRIDE FESTIVAL
25 June – 8 July: WIMBLEDON
26 June – 12 September: OLYMPIC VILLAGE OPEN
26 June – 12 September: OLYMPIC MEDIA CENTRE OPEN
27 June – 1 July: HENLEY REGATTA
9 – 15 July: FARNBOROUGH AIRSHOW
20 July – 18 August: RAMADAM
27 July – 12 August: OLYMPIC GAMES
19 – 22 August: EID UL-FITR
26 – 27 August: NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
29 August – 9 September: PARALYMPIC GAMES
16 – 21 September: LONDON FASHION WEEK
