Wimbledon 2013: 5 Travel Tips

Summer is here and one of the biggest sporting events in the world is close at hand... Wimbledon. Starting on Monday June 24 and ending on Sunday July 7, the most prestigious tennis tournament will be front and center in London, England. Trying to navigate a trip to such a large venue can be difficult, so I'm going to give you 5 tips to help make your trip easier.

Tip #1: The first four days, just buy ground passes. They're the best deal. You will get to see a lot of matches on the outside courts and you will be able to see really great players. The atmosphere is much more laid back and you are up close and personal with some of tennis' best. Don't forget your camera and autograph book. It's gonna be your best chance to meet your favorite tennis stars.

Tip #2: Talk with people. The best way to navigate a new adventure is to gleen information from the people that have been doing it for many years. You can find out tricks and deals from the "old pros" that new visitors might not be privy to. I had a good friend that went a few years ago and ended up chatting  with a family who's son was playing in a doubles match. He and his partner lost and they passed off the rest of their tickets to my friend.

Tip #3: Location, Location, Location!! When trying to book rooms you need to make sure that you're not only getting the best deal, but you're also going to be as centrally located as possible. There is nothing worse than booking a room and then realizing you're 30 miles away from the venue you are wanting to visit. Try the hotels in Covent Garden from Hotel Direct, they will steer you in the right direction.

Tip #4: Be comfortable. Bring comfy shoes, maybe an extra shirt (It's gonna be hot!), sunscreen, bottled water and a collapseable umbrella. Definately bring an umbrella, Wimbledon is notorious for it's rain delays, last year was one of the rainiest on record. Also, bring cash. They don't have any love for your credit cards and most of the vendors are not going to go out of their way to explain "Why?". The good thing about Wimbledon is they actually allow you to bring in a backpack. You will have to stand in line at a check point, but it ill be well worth your time. Just make sure the backpack can fit comfortably on your lap, seating can be a little cramped.

Tip #5: Car parking is limited and major traffic delays occur, so do not waste your time or money on renting a car. All visitors are encouraged to use public transportation. You can buy tickets in advance from Nation Rail. There are plenty of vendors between the train stations and the Wimbledon ticket booth to suit your every need. Food vendors serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Beer and drink vendors to help quench your thirst and merchandise vendors selling every kind of t-shirt, trinket and bauble to help you remember your visit