Expert: Francine - 12/5/2005

Question
Francine- We are budget conscious also.  With the prices just for transportation seems like we really need to watch our money on food, etc.  We will be staying at Alhambra Hotel in Kings Cross area December 25 & 26 and January 5 & 6 and would love any suggestions on reasonable restaurants.  We love all types of food and just want value for the money. Transportation seems overwhelming to me and I'm not sure if you can assist in this area.  Will need to get from Heathrow to Alhambra December 25.  Alhambra to Eurostar for Belgium December 27.  and then Eurostar to Alhambra on January 5 and Alhambra to Heathrow on January 7.  The tube seems confusing especially all the types of tickets one can purchase.   Any suggestions and help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi,

First of all the tube is the best way to travel around London. You can take it from Heathrow to Kings Cross with a connection.This is the least expensive way to get to the city from the airport.Tube Maps are easy to read and are all over the tube. You can easily ask an attendant which train to take. You can also take the tube to the place where you can catch the Eurostar.Tickets can be bought individually or for a number of days. I bet you can also easily inquire while there.

Restaurants are expensive in London. The cheapest are always Indian. Some Chinese buffets are reasonable too. A nice place for lunch is St Martin in the Field Church very near to Trafalgar Square.Here you eat in the Crypts.Try Pret a Manger for Lunch or breakfast. They are all over  the streets of London. Don't hesitate going to a Super market to buy lunch of breakfast .

For dinner look around the theatre district for price fixed meals. Chinatown is also reasonable and near the theatre district.

My favorite London site is the British Library. This is very near Kings Cross. THis is an extension of the British Museum. Do not miss that.

Hope this hepled you.

Francine