Traveling alone in London: where to stay?

I like the Victoria area and the Covent Garden area. Almost any "major" central London area is nice enough if you are careful. What type of accomodation are you looking for? Hostle, b&b, botique, tourist hotel, 3 to 4 star hotel??? Also what are you interested in doing? That might help narrow down an area.

Most all areas in Central London are safe. My favorite neighborhood in London is Kensington. I like the area around the Kensington High Street Tube station. Hotels in London can be expensive so if you tell us your price range I can give you a few recommendations.

I stayed at the YHA hostel, Holland Park a few years ago, a nice enough place for a hostel, about 25 pounds per night, breakfast included. I also stayed at Earl's Court YHA on another trip, same price but without breakfast.

Kristen,

You might consider the Victoria Station / Belgravia area, as it's a nice part of London, convenient to Tube stops, has some nice smaller Hotels, good restaurants, etc. If you'll be flying into LGW, you can take the Victoria Express right from the airport.

You might have a look at This Hotel or This Hotel to begin with. Derek & Sharon at Cartref House are wonderful (I fondly remember Derek's breakfasts - he could teach fast food restaurants a few things!).

I find that area is convenient walking distance to the Westminster Bridge, BA London Eye, Buckingham Palace and other popular sites. Of course, with Tube access you can be anywhere in London in a short time.

I'd suggest taking a copy of the London Guidebook, as it's got an enormous amount of information on the various sights in London, opening & closing times, admission costs, best transportation passes, etc.

I'd highly recommend making a reservation SOON, so that you'll have place to go straight away, when you're tired and jet lagged.

Happy travels!

Thanks to all for the advice!

I am only going to be in London for 3 nights so it's a fast and furious trip. I plan on hitting as many of the main tourist sights before heading back to Rome.

As far as what kind of place I want to stay, it doesn't really matter whether or not it's in a hotel, b&b, inn or what have you so long as it's reasonably priced (70-110 pounds) and safe. (Safety is especially important as I am a single female traveling in a city I've never been to before)

Anyways, thanks again!

Where/ how are you arriving? Air- Heathrow or Gatwick or other? Train- Eurostar-other? Where you arrive and depart can help in deciding where to stay. For example if you are arriving at Gatwick you might want to stay in the Victoria/Belgravia area.

Kristen,

Check the websites for the Hotels in my last post. I believe they may be in your price range. The rates will likely be better at this time of year.

Cheers!

I have to plug the Luna Simone in the Victoria Station area again. I too travelled to London alone and not only was the area clos to attractions and tube stations, I felt very safe there. I had a double room that was about 95 pounds, but that was in June so November might be cheaper.

Kristen,
I traveled alone last year in November (and will be again this November) and stayed in the Kensington area. I stayed at Holiday Inn Kensington Forum. The neighborhood is really nice and safe. The location of the hotel also was great. The tube is about 2 blocks away (Gloucester) and lots of attractions nearby within a few mins walk.

You can also check out the "Traveler Partners Wanted" section to see if anyone else is traveling about the same time so you can meet up with them if you want some company.

Hope this helps! Have fun! :-)

I too have stayed at the Forum.(business trip)....many years ago. The location is great....however...it is a very American style hotel....the tallest Holiday Inn in Europe....27 floors....over 900 rooms. There are many hotels in the area that are quainter and will give you more of a feel for London.