London Welcomes the Olympics

Text and photos by Chen Chi-Hsiang. Following the grand celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, London is now welcoming this year’s Olympic Games, appearing ready to host the global spotlight in late July. During my visit last year, five symbolic Olympic emblems were already hung high within the Eurostar high-speed rail station, greeting visitors and initiating their pilgrimage to London. As people visit the National Gallery’s magnificent classical paintings, a countdown monument at Trafalgar Square reminds Londoners and the British public of the approaching event. After the global financial crisis, Britain aims to use the Olympic construction and activities to bring new opportunities to this global financial hub, revitalizing commerce and the economy, and enhancing Britain’s competitiveness and London’s vitality.