A look at London before the Olympics

No city does pomp and pageantry and big public events better than London, covering the Mall in Union Jack flags, trotting out royalty in carriages, donning fancy hats and even fancier military uniforms. Think royal weddings and the queen’s recent Diamond Jubilee. Now, imagine 10,500 athletes from 205 countries and 600,000 international visitors added to the mix. That’s what will happen when the sports world arrives in July for the 2012 Summer Olympics.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games

The city’s skyline will provide the backdrop for much of the Olympic Marathon and other outdoor events.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games

A puddle reflected Big Ben’s clock tower, following a heavy downpour on March 7.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games

Olympic mascots Wenlock and Mandeville prepared to welcome the world.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games

The Olympic Stadium will host the opening and closing ceremonies, and the track and field competition.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games

The ArcelorMittal ORBIT sculpture was officially unveiled in Olympic Park on May 11.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games

Athletes tested the London Olympics beach volleyball venue at Horse Guards Parade.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games

A wider view of Horse Guards Parade, a venerable venue remade for beach volleyball.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games

The Olympic Velodrome will host numerous track cycling events.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games

London’s grand Victorian mall, Leadenhall Market, is ideal for dining and people watching.

• For the London Olympics, tourists are the big beneficiaries
• If you go to London…
• 5 ways to avoid crime during the Games