To all our lovely guests coming for the Games (and anyone else heading to London over the next few weeks) – we’ve put together a little guide especially for you to help you make the most of your visit. With millions of visitors coming to the city, we’re hoping that our expert local knowledge will give you the edge to make your stay even better, so that you’ll see London at its very best.

How to…Get ahead of getting around

On yer bike!

With people flooding to various Olympic venues across London, getting around may be a little more challenging than usual – only if you’re not in the know (which luckily for you, you’re about to be!)

  • As usual we’ll be lending all of our guests an iPhone for their stay – that means free local calls, free data, our own app, and the maps feature to help you get around. Take it with you when you’re out and about, so that you can access live travel news, navigate, and if in doubt give us a call!
  • When you’re planning your travel, your first port of call will probably be the Get Ahead of the Games website. Their daily bulletins provide a useful guide to how public transport and roads are likely to be affected by Olympic goings-on each day. For live travel updates the Transport for London website is a go-to.
  • If you’re really getting into the Olympic spirit, you might fancy cycling instead. It’ll be a quick and easy way to get around London – but make sure you study a map first! Find out about ‘Boris Bikes’, which are available at docking stations around the city. They don’t involve complicated membership or booking – just turn up and go. Best for short journeys, and be aware of which docking stations will be closed for the Games.
  • For longer journeys, we’re teaming with car sharing service Zipcar. An easier alternative to a hire car, Zipcar lets you reserve a car in your area for a couple of hours up to a whole day. If you’d like to do so, give us a ring and ask us about borrowing one of our Zipcards.

How to…make the most of The Olympics if you don’t like sports

Somerset House in bloom

If you’re just not into sports, then you’ll probably be in the minority – but by no means wanting for other things to do. London will be not only the sporting centre of the world, but also the most exciting cultural destination this summer.

  • The London 2012 Festival will feature millions of performances and events until 9th September. See the full guide here, or check out some of our picks here.
  • London, though busy, will be at its absolute best this year. What better time to immerse yourself in the city and live like a local? Avoid tourist traps and explore the local neighbourhood by using our very own app, which is pre-loaded with local recommendations from our hosts.