The demand for car hire has taken an upswing in London for the Olympic games period, even as UK-based government agency, Transport for London (TfL), has advised UK residents in the city to make best use of public transport, bicycles, and walking to reach their destinations while the games are taking place.
The 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games commence from July 27, 2012, and end on September 9, 2012. Around 150,000 international visitors are expected to be in the city for the world’s largest sporting event.
A UK based car hire company, Carrentals.co.uk, has reported that around 40 percent of its UK bookings have been made for a London pick-up. Around half of all of the company’s bookings that are due for pick-up between July 20 and August 8 have been made by UK residents, which is indicative of the level of interest that the event is generating at home.
The company managing director, Gareth Robinson, said, ‘People are tempted to head to the Eurozone this summer due to the current exchange rates, but Brits are known for their patriotism and being the hosting nation for the Olympics is something people are proud of and want to be a part of. This has been reflected in the booking patterns we’re seeing – the convenience and cost-effectiveness of hiring a car is outweighing the reports of extra congestion in London.
In order to avoid any disappointment, especially for those travelling to London to enjoy the games, it is important to take note of the advice out there and give yourself extra time to reach your destination. We would also suggest checking the opening hours of the car hire desk to ensure you have enough time to drop off your vehicle before your onward journey.’
