I am staying at the same hotel from 26 Dec - 28 Dec for the third time. While the Waldorf Hilton is a better value the Thistle Charing Cross is still a great deal at $90++. Each time I have stayed I was given a queen bedded room which more than met my needs. The rooms (while not large) had clearly been renovated recently and the bathrooms were modern and large. You got a great deal and a great location especially for a first time visit to London.

Now the problems. London will shut down on Xmas day and AFAIK the only gay place open on Christmas is Crash and Trade. Both are clubs. The tube and regular bus systems are both shutdown so you will need to walk to see anything. Boxing day will see things pick up though and it should be a great night as the UK has both Monday and Tuesday off.

Check: http://www.boyz.co.uk/JD04/Issue698/...stimes2004.pdf for xmas opening times.

rich