Looking for advice in London

Q: My husband and I are in our late 20s and making our first trip to London this summer. We will be there for 10 days.

I would like to know which borough(s) would be the best place to look for a hotel, so we can easily get around to see the sites.

Also, are the London Pass and Oyster (travel) card worth purchasing?

— SS, Seattle

A: The London bus and Tube (underground) system is extensive, which makes getting around from almost anywhere easy, but there are a few neighborhoods you might want to consider over others — and a few areas to avoid.

Kensington and South Kensington are both excellent areas in terms of quieter locations, affordable hotels, neighborhood pubs and access to convenient Tube lines. Knightsbridge, on the Piccadilly Line, one of the lines you'll likely use most, is also a nice location, but hotels tend to be more expensive.

Stay away from Earl's Court. Hotels are cheap, but many are seedy and run-down, and the station is always crowded and congested.

You could consider hotels around Victoria Station, especially if you are on a tight budget, but the area is also busy and not my favorite. It is convenient, however, and you can walk to many places from here.

Many people love Bloomsbury, near the British Museum and the convenient Russell Square tube station (on the Piccadilly line). It's touristy, but also convenient with a wide range of hotels and many places to eat, all within walking distance to the West End theater district.

And yes, by all means, buy a Travel Card for the Tube and bus system or a preloaded Oyster Card, but buy these at a station when you arrive. Don't bother with the tourist travel cards sold here online.

— Carol Pucci, Seattle Times Travel writer

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