London Neighborhood question

We've stayed in several areas of London. Zones 1 and 2 (basically anything inside the Circle Line of the underground) have relatively easy access to Tube stations and bus stops. Personally, I have liked Victoria and Covent Garden the best. But Paddington and other areas are very good, too. In your previous post, you mention a budget- but don't specify if it is Great British Pound (GBP) or Dollars. If it is dollars, you will be limited to hostels, budget hotels or possibly renting an apartment. If it is pounds, you'll have a bit more choice, but will not be looking at luxury accomodations.

Judy - That is a loaded question! The nice thing about the Tube and bus system in London is that virtually everywhere in the central London area is close to transit. A lot depends on what your budget is, and what you are looking for. The Bayswater area is cheap (for London), with lots of students staying in the area. South Kensington is a bit of a splurge - a little more well-to-do, and quieter; though there are a couple of nice small hotels in the area. Between Kings Cross station and Angel (Tube station on the Northern line) there are several less expensive hotels. Again, with London - its all about budget. It is an expensive proposition any way you look at it, but you will be hard pressed NOT to be close to transit.

A reminder that London is a very walkable city as well. Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abby are nearly next to one another. It's literally a walk in the park (St. James) from there along Birdcage Walk to Buckingham Palace. 20 minutes maybe. To get to Parliament Square simply take the tube to Westminster, exit via Westminster bridge outlet, walk up the steps and you'll see the London Eye across the Thames. Turn right, look up. Big Ben Looms. From my perspective, London's public transportation is prevalent, convenient and easy to navigate. Be sure to get the free London tube maps that fit in your pocket. Shows all the lines, zones and stops.Love riding the buses and taking a front row seat up top to look out the nearly floor to ceiling windows as the city passes by. For a first timer I'd stay either in Bayswater which is near Paddington Station (a major transportation hub). Vancouver Studio Apartments as long as you get a room no higher than the 2nd floor. Place is safe, clean, quiet and affordable. Personable staff. Kitchenette with kettle, plates, utensils, small frig and microwave. I say no higher than the 2nd floor as there is no lift (elevator) and stairs are step. See if they give you the garden room or the one just above it that looks out onto the garden. Tripadvisor reviews are stellar. OR try to see if you can stretch your budget and find a place in Kensington, South Ken, Bloomsbury or Marylebone. Have a wonderful visit.