In terms of staying in a place where you are more likely to interact with real Londoners and to avoid tons of tourists, I like to think that this is a place that Anthony Bourdain (RIP) would stay in. It is a little of a walk to the Bethnal Green Underground station but an interesting one, going through the heart of London's Bangladeshi neighborhood, which was a wonderful surprise. It is around the corner from trendy Columbia Road and a short walk to the very hip Brick Lane area. Karen and Ken include a fantastic user guide for this area that comes in very handy. Great response and communication from them. I would recommend this to folks looking for a little different London experience.