As thousands flock to tonight's Opening Ceremonies, be sure that you and your travel partners have a plan in place for how and when you will return to your hotel.
With less than three hours until the start of the Summer Olympics’ Opening Ceremonies in London, and as people from all over the world make their way to gather in attendance, here are 10 last-minute travel tips that will ensure your safety and your health:
- If you’re traveling with family, friends or a tour group, make sure everyone is aware of the evening’s plans and the locations of any/all meeting points, as well as the expected arrival time at each.
- If you’re traveling alone, have a transportation plan in place for how and when you will return to your hotel after the evening’s events. Whether you’re attending the Opening Ceremonies, or planning on enjoying a night exploring the city, follow your planned route.
- Decide on a meeting place if you get separated from your travel partners. Your hotel is often the best option, as everyone is likely more familiar with that area than areas surrounding Olympic sites.
- If you plan on utilizing public transportation, make sure you pick your routes and mode (minicab, buses, trams, Tube, etc.) wisely. Travel with companions whenever possible.
- Carry the contact information of your hotel with you on paper. In a city as big as London and with hundreds of thousands of people flocking to similar areas, it can be easy to lose direction, and while phones are great for storing contact information, they can also be easily lost or stolen. Have the phone number and address of your lodgings on your person at all times.
Be cautious when selecting modes of transportation for the London Olympics, as crowded buses and trains may increase your susceptibility to crime.
- Carry the contact information of your travel partners with you on paper if you don’t know them by heart. It may seem silly, but you’ll be glad to have done it if you get separated without a cell phone, or if someone else needs to contact your family on your behalf.
- Carry a calling card. They may seem like a thing of the past, but if your cell phone gets lost or stolen, an international calling card will allow you to contact your hotel and/or travel partners. London is known as a friendly city, but the more you can depend on your own resources, the less susceptible you are to crime.
- Choose your meals wisely and avoid testing your well-known dietary boundaries. Traveler’s diarrhea is a common condition and can catch even the most savvy travelers by surprise.
- Carry one-two doses of any necessary medications with you, as well as an anti-inflammatory and over-the-counter pain reliever. In case you experience delays returning to your hotel, having these on your person can protect your health and offer peace of mind. Check out the list of restricted items to learn more about what is and what is not allowed in each Olympic venue, as well as the Olympics’ Safety and Security information page.
- ENJOY THE GAMES! You’re in London attending an event that happens just once every four years. In the midst of your wise, health and safety planning, don’t forget to enjoy yourself and the Olympic atmosphere!
