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has everything you need, including a well-equipped kitchen with washing machine and dishwasher, plus cable TV and Wi-Fi. There’s a 24-hour reception and the apartments are serviced once a week. At this writing, construction was still in progress, the whole complex should be finished by 2012. Pros: brand new building; self-catering offers greater independence. Cons: payment is made when you book; biggest apartments are two-bedroom, so not really geared to families. TripAdvisor: “clean and spacious,” “felt like home from home,” “wonderful alternative to a hotel.” | 26A Adam and Eve Mews, Kensington | W8 6UJ | 0845/602–9437 or 020/7795–6880 | www.think-apartments.com | 133 rooms | In-room: a/c, kitchen, Wi-Fi | AE, MC, V | High Street Kensington .

CHELSEA

The Cadogan Hotel.

££££–£££££ | This is one of London’s most historically naughty hotels; it was once the home of Lillie Langtry, a scandalous actress and King Edward’s mistress in the 1890s.Her home was turned into a hotel, where Oscar Wilde stayed in 1895 (in Room 118) when he was arrested for “indecency” with a young man. A recent overhaul means much of the hotel’s old stuffiness is gone—elegant golds and creams have replaced fussy florals. The drawing room has rich wood paneling and deep, comfortable armchairs, and is a good place for afternoon tea and people-watching, as is the small, sophisticated bar. Breakfast includes healthy cereals and fruits alongside decadent pastries. Pros: luxurious but not stuffy; friendly staff; great location for shopping. Cons: rooms are quite small, as are the bar and restaurant. TripAdvisor: “so friendly and helpful,” “interesting history,” “great location for shopping.” | 75 Sloane St., Chelsea | SW1X 9SG | 020/7235–7141 | www.cadogan.com | 65 rooms | In-room: a/c, refrigerator, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, tennis courts, laundry service | AE, MC, V | Sloane Sq.

myhotel chelsea.

££££ | This small, chic hotel tucked away down a Chelsea side street is a charmer; rooms are bijou small but sophisticated, with mauve satin throws atop crisp white down comforters. Tiny bathrooms are made cheery with pale-pink granite countertops. Flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and Wi-Fi keep you digital. The beauty is in the details here—there’s no restaurant, but the fire-warmed bar serves light meals and tea. There’s no pool, but there’s a spa. The guest library lends DVDs and books, and is a quiet place to relax. It claims to use feng shui principles in its design—good luck will be yours! Pros: stylish rooms made for relaxation; upscale neighborhood. Cons: tiny rooms; no restaurant. TripAdvisor: “friendly reception staff,” “bar was cold and uninviting,” “staff was very friendly.” | 35 Ixworth Pl., Chelsea | SW3 3QX | 020/7225–7500 | www.myhotels.com | 45 rooms, 9 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, DVD, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, some pets allowed | AE, D, MC, V | South Kensington

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

The Beaufort.

££££–£££££ | At this elegant, modern-style boutique guesthouse, you get many amenities for your money like a front-door key, access to the honor bar in the drawing room, and an in-room music system with CDs and radio. The high-ceilinged, contemporary rooms have muted, sophisticated colors. Rates include flowers, fruit, chocolates, cookies, and water in your room; free email and Wi-Fi, and movies via the TV; tea in the drawing room; and admission to a local health club. Junior suites include a free one-way airport transfer. Four of the rooms have wrought-iron balconies. Pros: gorgeous decor; friendly staff. Cons: standard doubles are much smaller than the price might indicate. TripAdvisor: “staff are extremely friendly,” “rooms are small,” “great location.” | 33 Beaufort Gardens, Knightsbridge | SW3 1PP | 020/7584–5252, 866/866–7599 in U.S. | www.thebeaufort.co.uk | 20 rooms, 7 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: room service, bar, laundry service | AE, DC, MC, V | Breakfast | Knightsbridge

The Berkeley.

£££££ | The elegant Berkeley is increasingly known for its luxurious,