So, the Olympics are finally in full swing and medals are being issued to the thousands of athletes from a whole variety of countries. However, everything is not as the Chinese would have hoped.

Following months of reports concerning tight visas restrictions and new laws for those wishing to visit Beijing for the international event; such speculation has ultimately dampened the intended tourism flows for the Games.

Whilst the Games are already into their 3rd day, many hotels, restaurants and attractions have reported that tourism revenue is surprisingly low, particularly in areas surrounding the city.

China had hoped that the Beijing Games would prove prosperous for many areas of the country, as sports enthusiasts would flock to the events. Hotels even raised prices to catastrophic prices in the expectation of increased profits; sadly this has not been the case.

And the reason for such a slump… well it appears to be merely down to the limited granting of visas. With many viewing the process as near impossible, tiresome and laborious most have abandoned plans to attend and are instead watching from the comfort of their own homes. It seems that this has even be the case for some of the competing athlete’s families.

That aside, a lesson must be learnt by organisers of the 2012 London Olympics; London is already gearing ahead for an abundance of tourists, yet they must not follow China’s lead and must instead revise visa procedures for those wishing to attend. That is if they are to capitalize on the honour which has been emblazoned upon them by the IOC.