London is a world class city, with world class prices. That means expensive. It is always a difficult place to see on a budget, but there are ways to make it a bit more affordable, and even get some great deals on hotels.

Sleeping

An easy way is just to look up the local Travelodge. Nothing fancy about these, but the price is hard to beat. They have 15 hotels in or around the city center, with locations in Covent Garden, Tower Bridge and even one that overlooks the Thames River in Fulham. A around £30 a night, it's hard to go wrong. All rooms have a king-size bed and television. Check them out online to get the best deals.

Believe it or not, the YHA's London (yha.org.uk) youth hostels are worth looking into. The Central hostel is just off Oxford Street and has recently been completely renovated, while the YHA in Holland Park has one of the best locations imaginable. Set in a lush park between the super-wealthy suburbs of Notting Hill and Kensington High Street, you can eat breakfast while watching peacocks wander through manicured gardens. Private rooms are available.

Backpackers and young travelers might want to start at St Christopher's Inns (st-christophers.co.uk). These are near London Bridge, and great places to meet fellow travelers and get your feet wet. They are also super-affordable.

But if you want a bit more comfort, there are still deals to be had. If you don't mind risking it, call any luxury hotel around mid-afternoon or later. At this time, they pretty well know if they are going to be stuck with empty rooms, and will be ready to bargain.

Ask for a price, and then say that it's a bit out of your budget. Then ask if they have anything available for 30% or 40% less. (If the first price is 200, ask if they can arrange anthing around 130 or 140. To the hotel, half-price is better than an empty room, so you will very often get a positive response. If not, try another hotel until you do. Most are ready to deal. The only exception will be, of course, if they are all booked up. Even in off-season, this can happen, espeially if there's a major convention in town.

The Premier Inn London County Hall is another clever way to get a good deal. It's in the historic County Hall Building, on the South bank of the Thames River - right smack next to the London Eye and just across the river from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Downing Street, The National Gallery, the Tate Gallery, the Globe Theater, the London Bridge are just some of the attraction within walking distance. And it's pretty darn cheap. So, how do they do that? Actually it's in the same building that houses the much more expensive Marriott County Hall Hotel. But, buy going without a Thames River view from your room, and cutting some of the ritzier amenities, you can stay in the same location for a whole lot less. Try it - the Premier Inn London County Hall is one of London's best hotel secrets.