A study by the European Tourism Operators Association (ETOA) predicts a drop in London tourism due to the 2012 Olympic Summer Games in the city.
Citing statistics from the past six Olympics, the ETOA expects overseas visitors to drop by 30 percent in the month before the Olympics. A decline in tourism may continue for months or years after the event, the ETOA report claims.
The study contrasts sharply with predictions by Olympic organizers and London tourism officials. According to Visit London’s Chief Executive, Sally Chatterjee: “We believe the London 2012 Olympic Games will bring an influx of new visitors to London. Olympic year will be one of the most exciting times in our history and no-one will want to miss out.”
The ETOA study claims that Olympic Games are “profoundly disruptive” to tourism. Olympic enthusiasts are not typical tourists, according to the study, and the normal tourism businesses in an Olympic city suffer during the Games. Overcrowding and price gouging during the Olympics also deter tourism and the negative impressions linger long after the Olympic flame has been extinguished.
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