Royal wedding on the cheap

British Airways is all over the pending royal wedding of England’s future king and his commoner fiancé. The London-based airline is offering special packages for those invited, or just interested in being crowd-filler for network and cable

television cameras to scan.

   Prices start at $879 for the “Royal Wedding weekend Vacation package,” April 27-May 1, and go up to $1,089 (these prices exclude taxes and fees of approximately $188 plus $2.50 September 11th Security fee).

     The price discrepancy is due to the London hotel options included in the package, with the least expensive going for $865 per person up to $1,089 per person.

    The 70-bedroom Pembury Hotel based in London's Finsbury Park is a two minute walk from the underground and mainline station, making the business district and the West End with its endless shops, museums and nightlife only 15 minutes away. Crouch End and Islington are two of the trendiest areas in North London, and are only five minutes away by public transport. Both are known locally for their countless bars and restaurants serving international cuisines.

                                                                                                                         From $879

    The Royal National hotel is situated in a great location in Bloomsbury. With Covent Garden, Oxford Street and the British Museum on the doorstep, it is an ideal base to explore all that London has to offer. Close to Russell Square underground station (on the Piccadilly Line) there is also direct access to Heathrow Airport. This large and busy hotel has been a favorite with British Airways guests for many years.                                                           From $935

   The Holiday Inn in prime city location offers the peace and quiet of the capital’s best loved park on one side, and numerous attractions of London’s West End on the other. Within walking distance to Madame Tussauds and Oxford Street, the hotel offers access to the London underground, just two minutes away, which is ideal for both the business and leisure traveler.

                                                                                                                         From $975

   Located where London's West End meets the city, the composed Grange Holborn Hotel is  placed to satisfy the most discerning visitors to the capital. Whether enjoying the local theatreland, shops, museums, galleries, parks or maximising time in the financial heart of the city, the Grange Holburn ensures a most productive visit. The Health Club and Spa with its 15 metre swimming pool, gymnasium, steam/sauna rooms and beauty therapy suite all combine for a most relaxing time.                                                                                   From $1099