Bloomsbury in London

For hotels to fit the young traveler's budget and nightlife to match, stay in the Bloomsbury section of London. This West End neighborhood is full of theaters and clubs and is the heart of the literary community. Writers and artists live, work, and play here; one of the most famous is the Bloomsbury Group of Virginia Woolf. Bedford and Russell Squares keep the tradition of the sedate English public square alive, and nearby attractions include the Oxford Street and the British Museum, which, by the way, is open late every night and is free. (Lectures and some exhibits charge a nominal fee) tours last around 90 minutes, and reservations are preferred, but not required. On permanent display are the Rosette Stone, an Easter Island Statue, and the earliest depiction of Christ known. The Museum is three levels high, with the main floor housing special exhibitions, world culture exhibits including one titled "living and dying," and permanent displays for other countries. The upper floor is especially good for travelers wanting to know more about the history of Britain and Europe as seen through the eyes of an incredible photo exhibit of early London. The lower floors feature exhibits on Africa and the Near East. Note: The east stairs will be closed for reconstruction for the entire year of 2006.