London Hotel Review - Try a Flat!

The London Hotel Review is going to take a bit of a side step in this blog. We're going to talk about alternatives to hotel stays in our favorite city. Just as in the states, people traveling as a family or as a group are finding it is much more enjoyable - and affordable - to rent a time share or city flat. In fact, during these less-than-stellar financial times, renting a full-fledge flat may be just the answer to having your cake and eating it too!

The first thing to consider before deciding on a flat is to choose which area of London you want to be in! Here's a short guide:

• Theater District - SoHo, MayFair, Marylebone
  
• Business, Financial - The City
• Upscale Shopping/More Residential, Local restaurants- Chelsea, South Kensington, Pimlico
  
• High Street - Knightsbridge, Kensington
• Government - Westminster, Victoria
  
• Super Chic, Super Expensive - Belgravia
• The Fringe - St. John's Wood, Regents' Park
  
• Bohemian - Notting Hill

Now you may be asking which one of these areas is good for getting to the best tourist attractions either on foot or via public transportation. The truth is, with the exception of perhaps the outer areas of Chelsea, they are all good.

For example, The Tower of London is in the East End of London - passed the City. So you're not going to want to stay there. But getting to it is easy by way of the tube. Knightsbridge and Kensington are great for getting around but you'll sacrifice some of the really beautiful inner parks and squares found elsewhere. Mayfair is really the most centralized location - there are beautiful buildings and squares everywhere. But you won't get a local sort of atmosphere like you will in Chelsea. So my suggestion is to really stick to your guns about what you're seeking in the area you want to stay in and use the guide above.

How much will it cost? For a decent, upscale flat with two bedrooms, two baths, living room, and kitchen - the average seems to be around £1500 per week. Seems like a lot? Compare it to a 4-star hotel. If you've got the kids with you, how much would it cost to rent another bedroom. Besides you can have groceries delivered to your flat and prepare your own meals. It's worth it just to keep the kids happy!

For a list of some of the nicer (4 and 5 star only) flats for short stays, please fill in the form below and we'll be glad to send it to you!