Visit London board begins Olympic preparations

London has always been one of the most popular weekend getaway spots in the western world, and the last year has proven that the allure is far stronger than the expense involved in getting there and having a good time. The Visit London organization is keen to promote the city, and the British capital plans on using the Beijing Olympics as a springboard to raise awareness of their 2012 campaign.

Visit London has appointed a new board member, Travelodge CEO Grant Hearn, who will be of great help in the accommodation end of operations. James Bidwell, Visit London chief executive says, “London is the number one city destination for international travel with 2007 and 2008 on track to be record years for overseas visitors to the capital. This is driving the London hotels sector which is now experiencing its strongest performance levels since the late 1990s. I am delighted with Grant’s appointment – he brings a wealth of experience from the UK hotels sector to the Visit London Board. Grant’s entrepreneurial flair, business acumen and deep industry knowledge will further strengthen our Board as we make a further step change in the build up to London 2012.”