Lori

I'm planning my first trip to London. I've been talking to the travel agent about packages with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. I'm not sure what area of London I should stay in (I want to be in a safe neighborhood with easy access to the tube)or whether the hotels used by the airlines are the best way to go. Any advice?

Judy

Hi Lori, I just back from London yesterday(best time ever!!!) and this is what I learned....if I had it over, I would have just booked my own air, and I would have booked my own hotel rooms(on the net). In an ideal situation(without regard for money), I would have stayed closer to Covent Garden area...Ben Haines, you were right....it is a very central area...I would have stayed there.... I did a BA package, and I think during high season(which it was not), a package would be more cost effective. So many things are to be considered, time of trip, cost factor, interests...should be factored into the equation...there is so much info out there(and here) that it is easy to do you own palnning. This was my most "researched "trip...and the most satisfying. FYI, Judy

katy

I agree Covent Garden is a great place to stay. Are you travelling on a budget because if not The Covent Garden Hotel on Monmouth Street is FABULOUS!!! It is very warm and cosy and traditionally decorated. I can say without hesitation that you'll have the best nights sleep ever. The hotel chain also has one in Kensington too called The Pelham which is equally as nice. Trust me I'm British living in Hong Kong and whenever I'm travelling to London it's the nearest place I have been able to find that's home away from home.

katy

Sorry me again, package hotels are usually very lousy, I'd recommend looking more independantly. Also check out the many B&Bs but be careful you get what you pay for.

Elsa

If money is not a problem - 22 Jermyn St. is a very nice small hotel in a great location. The only problem is, is that it is usually booked way in advance. Their web site is www.22jermyn.com

dorrie

Just got back from staying at the Cranley Hotel at 10-12 Bina Gardens in South Kensignton. Very nice small hotel in a charming area. It is a townhouse with about 30 rooms. They have a web site. They have great weekend rates.

Melaney

Lori: After several trips to London and three using British Airways packages, I agree with the others that you can do this much cheaper on your own. I always stay in the Kensington area near the Gloucester Road tube stop and here are a few I like (all under 100lb per night for two, including breakfast & bathroom (en suite): Montana Hotel, Adelphi, Abcone and, my recent favorite: Burns Hotel (just around the corner from the Earl's Court tube--same area. Kensington is beautiful, safe, upscale and the Gloucester Road tube has the most lines so you change fewer times. Also within walking distance of Harrods, Harvey Nicks, the V&A, etc. (all in Knightsbridge).

Katy

The Millenium Bailey is also a good one near Gloucester Road tube station. Just don't stay at the Elizabetta as I was very dissappointed when I stayed there as part of my last BA package.

sarah gajek

I have used BA travel packages..Mayfair area has many hotels in their program and it's centrally located and full of charm. Often Meridien Picadilly will have a "leisure break" that includes tax and breakfast. Call their 800 number-the location is excellent for evening theater-and close to the discounted ticket booth at Leicester Sq.If you book make sure that tax is included in your room rate.Tube is at the corner.