London Neighborhood

i really like muswell hill, crouch end and highgate - all have a nice 'villagey' feel with cute cafes, lovely restaurants and quirky shops & boutiques. very north london though, so might be a bit far out of the city centre for you based on the areas you mention. all have good transport links into central london though

If you can afford any off 3 above which after Belgravia Mayfair must be highest costs in Ulk
There is also Kensington Barbican Islington and Bloomsbury all very central each have adifferent vibe
As atraveller I find Bayswater cental international esp Kingsway with the Park Heathrow express and gourmet Chinese food

What's your budget? Bayswater is vibrant and considered inexpensive. This place is realtively cheap for London http://www.vancouverstudios.co.uk/</a>. Have stayed there 3 times. However, it has changed ownership and I wasn't as happy with the staff the last time I was there. Less helpful and even rude to a point. Still easy access to the tube (2 stops) as well as the bus system. another recommend from friends is http://www.newlinden.co.uk/</a> Bloomsbury is also a good deal. If you can splurge for the weekend then stay in Chelsea. This link might be of interest as well.http://www.athomeinlondon.co.uk/</a><BR><BR>Have a great time.

I probably wouldn't stay somewhere in the City over a weekend. It tends to be quieter, and in some places, a bit dead. Chelsea is nice, but expensive. Nottinghill is also good. You might try somewhere like Warwick Avenue...good cafes, delis and local restaurants. It's Little Venice, so you could take a canal boat to Regent's Park, Primrose Hill or Camden. It's on the Bakerloo line which is 20min to Oxford street, and if you want to go to NottingHill you can walk via Westbourne Grove/Portobello (great for shops and cafes). Paddington is an alternative for hotels not far from Warwick Ave (might be cheaper)

However, London's not cheap...if you decide on your budget, that will probably determine where you'll stay....good luck!