With the 2012 Olympics coming up in London this summer, many members of Colorado's 7th Congressional district will be travelling to the United Kingdom to watch the competition. To ensure that everyone can have a fun, safe, and hassle-free Olympic experience, we have put together this FAQ guide to help answer common questions associated with safety, travel to the U.K., and the Olympic games.
We especially want to help those traveling to London avoid the numerous scams associated with the Olympics. Always be sure to buy tickets for Olympic events and accommodations in London through verified and trusted sources. In addition, be careful while visiting London as the increased tourism can attract thieves to the Olympic events.
Finally, if you have any additional questions please feel free to call our district office at (303) 274-7944 and we would be happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have.
Click here for the 2012 London Olympics pocket guide with emergency numbers and helpful resources.
Q: When are the Olympics?
A: The London 2012 Olympic Games are July 27 - August 12. The London 2012 Paralympic Games are August 29 - September 9.
Q: Where are the Olympic events located?
A: The Olympic Village and nine of the Olympic venues are located in east London. There are 13 other venues in London and 10 outside of London. Visit www.london2012.com for more details.
Q: Where can I stay?
A: To find accommodations in London visit www.visitlondon.com. For accommodations outside the city visit www.visitbritain.com. Watch out for scams and online classified notices.
Q: How can I travel in London?
A: There will be a variety of transportation options available for visitors in London. Information about venue locations and transportation is available here.
Q: Do I need a visa?
A: American citizens do not need a visa to travel to London unless they stay for more than 90 days. The UK Border Agencyhas more details about entry and customs requirements.
Q: What are the customs requirements?
A: Information about customs and banned goods can be found on the UK Border Agency's Customs Page.
Q: What if I want to visit other European countries?
A: If traveling into other European countries from London, check the visa requirements for the individual countries you plan to visit.
Q: What about safety?
A: Prior to leaving you should enroll with the U.S. Embassy's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)so that you can receive important safety and security announcements, and enable your friends and family to get in touch with you in an emergency. Also, check your overseas medical insurance coverage - more information can be found here.
Q: What should I do in case of emergency in London?
A: The emergency phone number in the United Kingdom is 999, but this should be used for emergency purposes only (similar to 911 in the United States). In addition, the US Embassy in London can be reached at: 020-7499-9000 and is available 24/7 for emergencies.
Q: Where can I get tickets?
A: CoSportis the official ticket reseller for the London Olympics for U.S. residents. Be cautious of fake ticket websites and unlicensed ticket resellers. If you are unsure about a ticketing website or want more information fake ticket resellers, use the official Ticketing Website Checker.
Q: What if I can't get tickets?
A: If you can't get tickets, you can still watch all the action for free from the large screens at one of the several London Livesites.
Q: Where can I find information about the US team?
A: Information about Team USA and the U.S. Olympic Committee can be found at http://www.teamusa.org.
