I shall be spending a week in London in February, with a friend and her teenage son. I have many times in the past stayed in a variety of small hotels in Bloomsbury, and would like to do so again. However, this time we need 2 rooms, and I'm shocked at how the costs have shot up. Any suggestions? The Tavistock keeps coming up as a possibility - any comments? I also recall hearing about a Quaker-run hotel near St. James', which was apparently very reasonable. We're beginning to panic!

try the youth hostels, they're usually pretty reason-
ble. also, try the smaller B&B's that have one meal
in a.m. have you looked in the travel guides at
the bookstores or library? also, some public t.v.
stations have travel shows like travels in europe.
good luck and have fun.

Have you considered renting an apartment? Much cheaper, more room and generally more fun. Many are listed on the web and the British Tourist Board will mail you direct with a list of approved aparments at various rates. We have found the best value is for those in the plimico area followed by those located on the outskirts Of London, but still on or near the tube lines.

We stayed at the Collin House,104 Ebury St, just 2 blocks from Victoria station. It is a B&B. We had a family room, ensuite facilities, that was about $120 per night. Great location for using the tube. Very nice. It is listed in a few of the B&B and guide books. Royce

Check out the Orion apt./hotel chain. I have stayed in two of them in Paris. They were great and very reasonably priced. I believe they have two or three locations in London. Though not charming at all, they are very practical, clean and neat. You can get a studio, one or two bedroom I believe. They have a web site but I'm afraid I don't have it right now.