Renting a room in a hotel is definitely a short-term option, as it is the most expensive one. It is always a good idea to make a reservation. You will often be required to give your credit card number and, on the arrival, to pay in advance. The prices of hotel rooms vary depending on the location (again!) and the standard. In London you can find a low key hotel which will charge you £20 per night, but don't expect any luxuries in there! Another cheap option is to stay at one of the YMCA student hotels, (for example The Barbican YMCA) - the prices vary depending on how long you stay but are quite reasonable. (about £100 per week)

Otherwise, if you want to stay in a decent hotel with a your own bathroom and toilet in the room, expect to pay more.

In some hotels some meals, usually breakfast, are included. You are not allowed you to bring guests into your room, and you have to leave your room at certain time in the morning, so the cleaner can tidy it up.

PROS:

• You don't have to worry about lack of privacy
• You don't have to clean the room - the room service will do it for you
• You will have the breakfast provided
  

CONS:

• It is very expensive.
• You can not have your guests in
• Once you have checked out you have to leave the room in the morning

Useful links

Inexpensive London Hotels and Hostels.
It provides a list of inexpensive hotels and hostels in London.
www.uk-hotels-register.com/

Shellborne Hotel
It provides budget hotel accommodation for tourists, students, and backpackers in west London within ten minutes of the West End.
www.shellbournehotel.com/