Two of us will be arriving at Gatwick from USA about 6:30am on Wed. May 3 then departing early in the am on Sun. May 6.
I'm thinking thatI would like a hotel (more accessible to London attractions) to go to upon arrival then take a city tour that day just to get the layout so we can do more the next 2 full days. What is the best (and most cost effective ) way to get closer to London where we might find some reasonably priced hotels? Also, can anyone recommend where to purchase both pounds and Euros in advance to our arrival. Thank you cyndy
Define cost effective and reasonably priced. A different standard for every traveler. The quickest option is the Gatwick Express train. Another option is the EasyBus. Use a debit card at an ATM. If possible use a Capital One card. No fees. http://www.gatwick-airport-guide.co.uk/south.html Use the search engine on this forum for further information about "reasonably priced," accommodations and currency exchange. Both are very popular questions.
In addition to the Gatwick Express (easy, direct service to Victoria Station), there is Southern Train service to several stations- but there will be multiple stops and those trains are used by communters from the outskirts. Do a search here and on TripAdvisor for more details. The Victoria Station area has several hotels recommended by Rick Steves. The Lime Tree and the Luna Simone are two I can think of. Or check out the London School of Economics. They have multiple central London locations - all near Tube stations or bus stops. They rent spare dorm rooms and aparmtnets to tourists at very good rates. Here is their website
http://www.lsevacations.co.uk/
train ffrom Gatwick stay in Lo ndon- we find Gatwick express convenient. If you are only in London a few syas, we like to be closer to Piccadilly circus, leicester Sqaure so we can walk to most of the sights without using transport. Also convenient for after theater. Its only a few days, the difference per room rate is well worth the convenience