The only time we can get to Europe this year is during the London Olympics. I don't know whether to think France, Belgium, and Switzerland might have slightly fewer tourists during that time (because they might be in London instead). Alternatively, should I fear that there will be more tourists in those countries (because the Londoners will escape the Olympics crowds by traveling on the continent). Any thoughts?
Its possible that there might be slightly more tourists in those place during the games, but it won't make any noticeable difference. The one worry I would have is the cost of transatlantic flights during the games. Not everyone heading to the Olympics will be taking direct flights to London. Some will be connecting through other cities like Paris, Brussels, Zurich, LA, NYC, Miami etc. Seats maybe scarce, and prices up.
That's when I will be taking a holiday - leaving England for France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany and Switzerland. I leave just before the madness starts.
The Olympics are unlikely to make any noticeable impact on travelling for destinations other than London itself. The numbers just don't add up that much to make a difference in the rest of the continent. Around 80 million tourists will take international trips in Europe this peak summer season. All the expected Olympics attendance will not reach 1% of it.