Homestay Rental Guide: All You Need to Know

Moving house: should I ask for help from pals or professionals?

05/29/2017

Most of us have moved house or helped someone else move house at some point in our lives, even if it was just lugging a few boxes down into a car. An alternative solution is turning to professional removals companies, which has its advantages. If you’re about to move and can’t decide between asking for help from your friends and family or a professional company, here are a few things to consider. Removal companies: a high quality service – at a price Moving house requires a lot of planning...

Studying in Philadelphia: what to do and where to stay

05/26/2017

Philadelphia – not just a delicious cheese spread, but one of the USA’s largest and most prosperous cities! A city with great significance in American history, most notably during the American Revolution, Philadelphia is home to many of the country’s 'firsts’ – the first hospital, library, zoo and stock exchange among others – and is the only World Heritage City in the United States. It is a popular study destination for American and international students due to the world class universities and...

The 5 types of B&B location

05/24/2017

Thinking of getting away from it all and setting up a B&B? It’s a dream many people have, and there’s a certain romanticized image of B&B ownership. It’s not for everyone, but many do find a new passion in life. But where should you set up or buy your B&B to attract enough guests to make it viable? Here are the top 5 typical locations of B&Bs in the UK – see which strikes your fancy… Seaside – fun in the British sun Holidays at the seaside are as British as fish’n’chips and 99 – and often ...

What to do in Dublin in 3 Days

05/22/2017

A trip to Dublin is the perfect way to immerse yourself in true Irish culture. Music, friendliness, and greyhound racing are some of the many Irish traditions to discover. With a few museum visits in between, you will be spellbound by your three day trip to the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Roomlala has also included a few tips for finding somewhere to stay so that your budget can stretch to all that Dublin has to offer. Day 1: Temple Bar and other must-sees Start off your trip in th...

Where to live when you're a student in Melbourne

05/19/2017

Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and Australia’s second largest city. With 8 universities and 300,000 students, it is Australia’s student city and a great destination for studying abroad. Over a third of the city’s students is from abroad! Often said to experience all four seasons in one day, Melbourne’s cultural and social scene is as diverse as its weather. With a great sense of community considering its size and a passion for all things sport (especially Aussie Rules), Melbourne is an exc...

5 times it's ok to ask your flatmate to pay

05/17/2017

It’s never easy asking your housemates or flatmates to pay up for something. Unfortunately, in certain situations it is necessary and you are perfectly justified in asking them to shell out. Here are 5 common situations when you shouldn’t feel guilty asking for money from your housemate or flatmate. When your housemate suddenly decides to leave It’s the start of the month, and your housemate decides they want to move out without telling anyone beforehand. Even if they think that you hav...

What to do in Lisbon in 3 Days

05/15/2017

Lisbon never sleeps! You can find an open bar or shop at any time, day or night, which will welcome you in with open arms. The vast number of monuments and attractions to discover makes for a fantastic short break in Portugal’s finest city. Not sure where to start? Roomlala has prepared a quick itinerary for any traveller who wants to make the best of what is on offer in the Portuguese capital. Day 1: the mythical district of Alfama If you want to dive straight into the local culture,...

Landlords: Top 5 UK cities to invest in property

05/12/2017

Investing in property – particularly buy-to-let – is a popular choice for both landlords and people who want a nest egg or money-earner on the side. It is, however, important to remember that it must be viable to let the property. In order to make the most out of your property, it is vital that you choose a dynamic market where there is enough demand for your type of property. This article outlines 5 British cities which are attractive options where the rental market is thriving. Remember – rese...

Moving to Sheffield as a student

05/10/2017

Sheffield is a Northern city with its heart in steel production, but in the 21st century there’s a lot more to it than that. Students coming to study in Sheffield at the University of Sheffield or Sheffield Hallam University all have a great time getting to know the city and all it has to offer. The two universities have a combined student population of over 60,000. As England’s 4th largest city, Sheffield is a great choice for students who want all the benefits of living in a big city which is ...

What to do in Madrid in 3 days

05/08/2017

Only 2 and half hours away from London by plane, Madrid is an attractive option for many UK holidaymakers. A visit to the Spanish capital will introduce you to a world of gastronomy, vibrancy, culture and fascinating museums. A 3 day stay in Madrid is the ideal break to get away from the real world and discover this charming, historic city. Day 1: Paseo del Prado The Prado Museum in Madrid is one of the largest in the world and is an absolute must-see for any tourist, not just museum lover...

Studying in Edmonton: what to do and where to stay

05/05/2017

Edmonton, the capital of the province of Alberta in western Canada, might not be the first place you think of when you think of Canadian cities. It is the northernmost in North America to have a population over 1 million, and is nicknamed ‘Canada’s Festival City’, thanks – unsurprisingly - to its year round festivals. Although it i is cold during Canada’s long winters, Edmonton actually has the most sunny days of any Canadian city during the summer! Home to 6 main universities and colleges, incl...

Flatshares vs. houseshares: which should you choose?

05/03/2017

Among the many types of accommodation on offer for students, flatsharing and housesharing is one of the most practical, and most popular. Affordable on a tight budget, it’s also perfect for meeting new people and strengthening friendships. Some groups prefer a house, while others prefer a flat. Here is a couple of things to think about when choosing which way to go. Flatsharing: the pros and cons Flatsharing is a booming sector, and subsequently there is a lot on offer in large cities, par...

What to do in Stockholm in 3 days

05/01/2017

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a city at once modern and ancient, natural and designed. Stockholm is sure to give you a change of scenery wherever you come from. Under 3 hours from London, the city – which comprises fourteen islands – is a must visit due to its vast array of attractions. Roomlala has cooked up a 3 day itinerary so that you don’t miss anything on your weekend trip – as well as a couple of accommodation tips. Day 1: discover the city centre To kick off your visit to Stoc...

Where to live when you're a student in Portland

04/28/2017

Portland, Oregon is an exciting, modern city that is one of the largest in the United States. Students at the many universities and colleges are never short of things to do, with a vibrant art and music scene as well as an impressive social and restaurant offering. Ranked as the 8th most popular city to live in, Portland is sure to be a great destination for any aspiring student. It’s known for its friendliness, microbreweries and coffee houses, and the city’s unofficial slogan is ‘Keep Portland...

Stay in a spare room during your business trips

04/26/2017

Between business trips and training events, businesses have many reasons to send their employees all over the country and even abroad. These trips can be costly even if they do count as business expenses. Renting a spare room can be a great way to reduce expenditure for businesses and allow employees a more homely, interesting experience when travelling for work. Accommodation for business travel: a high cost For firms who regularly send employees away for work, the cost of accommodation c...

How to prepare your room for your new tenant

04/24/2017

Thinking of renting out your spare room to a lodger or student? Here are a few tips on how to prepare your room before they arrive. Things to think about before renting Before renting out your room, it is important to ensure that the room is big enough for the lodger or lodgers who wish to occupy it. Under the Housing Act of 1985, a room of less than 50 square ft (approximately 4.5m²) cannot be used as a bedroom and a room between 50 and 70 sq ft (approximately 6.5m²) is only half a bedroo...

Moving to Christchurch as a student

04/21/2017

Christchurch is often considered the gateway to the South Island, but the city has more than enough to offer right on your doorstep. Students coming to study in Christchurch at one of the universities, colleges or higher education schools will be pleasantly surprised by the city, its people and the wealth of activites on offer. The University of Canterbury has over 10,000 students, of which 2,000 are international students. The city has been rebuilt following devastating earthquakes in recent ye...

Tips to optimise your kitchen space

04/19/2017

Getting the balance right in the kitchen between careful interior design and storage space is always tricky. Between cutlery, crockery, tea towels and saucepans, there’s always slightly too much stuff in a kitchen. Roomlala has come up with 6 tips to help you optimise your kitchen space and maximise your storage space. Furniture hooks In order to optimize your storage space in the kitchen, you could attach hooks to your existing furniture. Hooks on the backs of doors or under the shelve...

What to do in Grenada in 3 days

04/17/2017

Grenada and the Alhambra are part of one of the most historically exciting regions in Europe. Aside from the culture and history, the magnificent landscapes around the city are enough to attract a huge number of visitors each year. Roomlala has prepared an itinerary for a three day trip to allow you to discover Grenada in a weekend – and find accommodation. Day 1: Grenada town centre For your first day in Grenada, we suggest that you take the time to explore the centre of the city. Start w...

Studying in Newcastle: What to do and where to stay

04/14/2017

Newcastle-upon-Tyne is one of the UK’s most exciting student cities, with the University of Newcastle and Northumbria University both high in the rankings. The two universities boast a vast combined student population and the city has a huge amount of affordable student housing as a result. If you’re considering studying at either of the city’s universities, read on to find out all you need to know. What to do When it comes to nightlife, Newcastle is the place to be. The main student nights ar...

How to move house on a budget

04/12/2017

The costs of moving house can often suddenly pile up. Whether you’re moving across the country or moving down the road, it’s important to organize yourself and prevent unnecessary costs. Here are our 10 tips for a cheap, easy move. Tip 1: Choose your method carefully First things first, you must choose how you’re going to move house. You can call on your friends and family and rent a car or van through various sites, which is often the cheapest option. However, you must consider how you’re g...

Finding a flatshare in Paris

04/10/2017

Rent prices in Paris can be a real problem for students looking for accommodation in the French capital. The city is magnificent and has a whole host of opportunities and things to do, which makes it all the more important to find affordable accommodation so that you have enough money to make the most of this amazing city. Students often find that flatsharing is the best way of solving their problems. Roomlala is here to help you find a flatshare in Paris. Paris: the City of Lights, where eve...

Where to live when you’re studying in Leeds

04/07/2017

One of the best student cities in the UK, Leeds has a lot going for it – with some of the best nightlife and trendy destinations, students at the 4 main universities are never short of things to do. Now the UK’s third largest city by population, Leeds’ housing market is massive and there’s a whole lot on offer for students. You might find a great place to live near your university, near the city centre or somewhere else entirely. No matter where you choose, this up and coming Northern city is su...

What to do if your landlord doesn't give back your deposit

04/05/2017

A deposit, sometimes called a guarantee or damage deposit, is a sum of money collected by a landlord at the start of the tenancy for security against damage or non-payment of rent. It protects the landlord against damages or degradations in the property caused by the tenants and unpaid bills. A description of what the deposit covers should be provided by your landlord, whether in the tenancy agreement or another document. If you are affected by a dispute surrounding your deposit or the non-refun...

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