Here's the situation: platinum elite and wife, flying to Heathrow next summer and planning to stay a couple of nights in London before boarding a cruise that departs from Dover. Neither of us has ever been to London before and know nothing of the city layout, "feel" of the various neighborhoods, etc. In general we prefer upscale-feeling hotels, enjoy a nice hotel restaurant, and prefer to be within walking distance of other nice places to eat and shop. Excellent customer service is my number one priority, though, and I will accept an older, less-nice place in a less convenient part of town in order to be treated well.

So where should we stay? The array of Marriotts in London is confusing to say the least, and there appears to be a wide range of prices. If you're familiar with London and the myriad Marriotts there, what would be your top three recommendations to me and why? How do they rate in terms of convenience from Heathrom? How should we get from the hotel to the cruise terminal (taxi, limo, etc.)? Any other tips?