We wanted to take in a couple of shows and then relax during the days, walking, shopping, sitting in the park etc. The De Vere at Greenwich proved to be a perfect location and easily accessible via the tube and dlr.

Hotel is a little out of the way but transport was straightforward - took about 40 mins to get into areas such as Covent Garden, South Kensington, etc, using docklands light rail (dlr) and tube connections. Views of London from dlr were a bonus. Just get a zones 1-4 off peak travelcard which covers tube, dlr and buses. This is just over £6 per day and can be bought at the excel station for example - self servcie machine, can pay in cash or by card, very easy to use. Very short walk (a few mins) from station at excel to hotel. Rooms extremely clean and there are two ironing rooms you can use if needed. Hairdryer can be borrowed from reception (you give a samll deposit). Had fab organic icecream at gino - there is one on Adelaide Street, near Trafalgar Sq. Beutiful italian icecream, all your usual flavour and a few new ones such as peanut butter! Scoop icecream also excellent - one at 40 shorts gardens near Covent Garden.

We decided to have a short break together and booked the Ibis Excel. We were very pleased with the hotel and its staff, they were helpful and informative giving us a even better short break experience. The hotel is situated between 2 dlr stations which are serviced well by regular trains,getting us in and out of the city. The city of London (as always) was wonderful.

The Novotel was great. Near to the o2 as we were going to a concert there. Went into London most days by the trains. Lots of walking. Area not suitable for elderly as there was a lot of travelling to get to and from places. Best way to pay for the trains was the oyster card, you put money on it at any station and swipe it just before you get on the train and at the end of the journey. I came back for a rest!.