Ayoob could not have been a more splendid host. He anticipated my every desire and responded thoughtfully and promptly. His place is a dream location: not only is it in an excitingly historic area of London, it is also hip, with restaurants -- scores of them -- everywhere, charming pubs with great food, and everything is instantly available to both travelers as well as people who want to linger, to enjoy the nightlife and busy day-time offerings.