The Williamsburg/Chelsea of London?

Hoping to receive a visa soon (please....) and am planning a trip in a few weeks to determine what area would be best for me to live in.  My ideal neighborhood would be fairly artsy, nice nightlife, cafes, etc.  I wont know almost anyone, so Im looking for a lively neighborhood with some charisma....

Can anyone provide some suggestions about neighborhoods that might be a good place to start?

Thanks.
tzigs

Notting Hill/Holland Park
Primrose Hill
Chelsea

BTW, these areas I mentioned are not cheap to live in.

bvamin

I heard Soho was a lively and artsy place to live, but it is so hard to find an affordable flat there.  (Like I said, this is second hand knowledge.)

I heard Soho was a lively and artsy place to live, but it is so hard to find an affordable flat there.  (Like I said, this is second hand knowledge.)

Soho is 'lively' because that's where all the lap dancing bars, peep shows, and porn shops are located.... some damn good Chinese restaurants nearby there, though!

Well, sounds like my kinda place then.   (just kidding)