irishinigo: that $55 was a Priceline bid. It isn't a rate you would see posted anywhere to just book. Priceline (after studying biddingfortravel) is a brilliant option for London.

Thank you, janisj. I'm getting down to the wire here -- I am not a long-range planner unless it's for work -- so I think next trip I will definitely plan earlier and play around with Priceline and Bidding sites. This forum has been a wealth of information for me - I just wish I had found it 2 months ago.

Irish..it's not too late! I was very hesitant about Priceline...but took the plunge and my trip is only 7 weeks away! I got 2 rooms at the Holiday Inn Kensington Forum for $84 a night...the lowest the hotel offered was over $300 a night!!! Please give it a shot! :)
Tara

Irishiningo, sorry, I've been gardening, but Janisj gave you the info. You should be able to read the biddingfortravel.com website and start bidding in one evening. Good luck---you'll really save money on the room with PL.

Steed, can't you take a Valium, or something?

We just returned from Europe and booked our 2 major hotels in london and Paris on priceline. London Hilton Kinnsington was $75.00 and our Paris Le meridian was 105.00 a nite. Would recommend Priceline IF you dont mind a larger hotel. After booking go to the Hotel website and become a member of their frequent travelers program- this sometimes get you an up graded room-it did for us in London and Paris-- Good luck

Spent 3 nights at the Jurys Kensington, love the location it was really a decent hotel. Room was small but on the top floor so lots of like, very clean, staff helpful. Upon arrival a room was ready but on a smoking floor. I had requested a nonsmoking room, so I refused and waited until one was available - worth the wait, no smell and cheery on the top floor. So Ken is a fabulous location away from all the touristy chaos yet close enough to walk every where. Lots of good restaraunts, cafes, internet etc...around the corner. So Ken tube station is very convenient as well. Walking around Marble Arch and Victoria Station is too touristy, congested and dirty. Oxford street is okay early for shopping, but a nightmare midday. I prefer the Kings Road for shopping. Although they are close to some major sights, it's much nicer to stay in a more residential area with access to everything.

The US dollar is pathetic at the moment, at Heathrow the pound was 2.12!!! Needless to say I did not do a lot of shopping.