I see you've chosen Bloomsbury, but my own choice would be the apartment in Hammersmith. I've cycled around that area and it's perfectly safe. There's also a community feel to the area that you don't get in Bloomsbury, although that's also an attractive area. So basically, you won't be disappointed with either choice.

http://www.visithammersmith.co.uk/

Hi: I can understand your dilemma... you are faced with two good options. But I agree that Bloomsbury will suit you quite well as a first time solo visitor to London. The public transportation is all around you, and it's fairly central to museums, theaters, and other tourist attractions. The Arosfa sounds like a particularly pleasant B&B. Have fun planning your trip.

My friend and I have stayed at The Arosfa several times.Richard and Jackie are lovely people.I'm sure you have read the reports on the Arosfa.You can walk to British Museum,British Library etc. Buses stop across the road which take you to Trafalgar Sq, from there you can walk to other major tourist attractions.If you stay on the same bus(No 15 I think) it takes you down Piccadilly, ofor Royal Academy, Fortnum and Masons across the road.Just past the Ritz Hotel is the entrance to Green Park.Have a lovely walk through the park to Buckingham Palace.Visit the exibitions in The Queen's Gallery and visit the Royal Mews.

The Arosfa is near Russell Sq. Lots of bars and restaurants on Southampton way. The Brunswick Centre is almost opposite Russell Sq tube station.Lots of eating places here.Brunswick Centre has web site,you could have a look to see if there's anything to your taste.

Hope this is helpful.

We will be returning to the Arosfa when we arrange next visit to London

Well....thank you "Reg" for the kind compliments.

I LOVE the Bloomsbury area precisely for the following reasons 1) it's a neighborhood, with neighborhood restaurants on Southampton Row like Il Fornello, and Russell Sq itself 2) fabulous pubs - especially the Lamb on Conduit St 3) the Brunswick Centre with it's wonderful Waitrose, bistros and shops and 4) within walking distance of the BM, and the most fantastic walk ever to Trafalgar Square down Monmouth Street and St Martins Lane - so historic and simply marvelous. Enjoy!

Ta, everyone. You have definitely put my mind at rest, while both options have their merits, Bloomsbury it is!

Now all I have to do is be patient for another 11 months...

Ta, everyone. You have definitely put my mind at rest, while both options have their merits, Bloomsbury it is!

Now all I have to do is be patient for another 11 months...

I think you've made the best decision. You'll LOVE it. And if you want walking directions and/or pub/restaurant recommendations, just ANYTHING, let me know!

We stayed near your Gower location in September. A number of single women were at the hotel and it is near several educational institutions with many students out and about. Well lighted and close to everything. All the buses run on Gower and back on Charing Cross.

hi debinoz, I agree with your decision Bloomsbury is indeed a very nice area to stay in as a tourist.. its got lots of character, lovely restaurants, pubs and many tourist attractions

i've seen you other post though and it says you'll be in london for 3 weeks? in which case i'd go with an apartment but not the one in Hammersmith.. this is an ok area, quite safe, but a bit scruffy/dirty. As a tourist it may be disappointing..

3 weeks is a long time and unless you could stretch your budget very smartly, it's better to stay at a flat so you could cook a bit and live like a local.

why don't you try these apartments? both areas are really central, safe and close to attractions as well (the first one near hyde park and the second one near the thames, tower of london etc)

holiday-rentals.co.uk/England/…p18035.htm

holiday-rentals.co.uk/England/…p11483.htm

ps: Mrs Outram, the owner of the 2nd apartment is one of the kindest, most generous landlord i've ever dealt with!!