London Hotels & Attractions for Budget Travelers

BETHESDA, Md., Nov 03, 2009 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Although London is widely regarded as one of the most expensive cities to live in, it can be an affordable place to visit; which is why Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR), one of the world's leading lodging companies, has created a mini-guide featuring free activities throughout the city.

With sophisticated, affordable London hotels and some well-chosen sites, travelers can experience many of the city's top attractions and a few hidden treasures without spending a dime, such as: -- Tate Modern. On the banks of the Thames, the Tate Modern is Britain's national museum of international modern art and boasts an array of works by Cezanne, Matisse, Picasso, Rothko, Dali, Pollock and Warhol, as well as many up-and-coming artists. With the exception of special exhibitions, admission to Tate Modern is free.

-- Tower Bridge. Just a short walk from Tate Modern and many London hotels, the Tower Bridge is one of the city's most iconic structures. Visitors can watch as the bridge is raised and lowered to allow boats to pass beneath it, then walk across the bridge and discover stunning city views.

-- St. James's Park. Located next to Westminster (the Houses of Parliament), St James's Palace and Buckingham Palace, St James's Park is London's oldest Royal Park. In addition to breathtaking castle views, it also boasts a restaurant, a lake and gardens.

-- Trafalgar Square. In the heart of the city, visitors to Trafalgar Square will find cultural events and an array of activities taking place throughout the square. And for those days when something special isn't happening, visitors can see Nelson's Column, several fountains, the famous stone lions and the infamous fourth plinth.

-- Kenwood House. In Hampstead Heath, near many London hotels, this 17th century manor features panoramic city views, lush gardens with wooded paths and, although the home is largely void of furnishings, it boasts a world-class art collection - with paintings by Rembrandt, Turner, Reynolds, Gainsborough and Vermeer.

In addition to conveniently located London hotels, Marriott offers full concierge service to assist guests in planning their stay. For more information about accommodations, attractions and travel specials in London, visit http://www.marriott.com/city/london-hotels.

About Marriott MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company with more than 3,200 lodging properties in 66 countries and territories. Marriott International operates and franchises hotels under the Marriott, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Courtyard, TownePlace Suites, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites and Bulgari brand names; develops and operates vacation ownership resorts under the Marriott Vacation Club, The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club and Grand Residences by Marriott brands; operates Marriott Executive Apartments; provides furnished corporate housing through its Marriott ExecuStay division; and operates conference centers. The company is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, USA.

CONTACT: Jeff Gold [phone] [e-mail] SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.

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