Homestay Rental Guide: All You Need to Know

What you need to know about renting when you have a pet

By Rédaction Roomlala 06/09/2017

Among many things, Britain is a nation of dog lovers (and cats, rabbits, budgies…) Surprisingly, unlike in other European countries, the status of pets and animals in rentals is not a protected right. There are various reasons why landlords are hesitant about renting to pet owners; the thought of animal smells, hair, anti-social behaviour and general dirt can often lead landlords to reject pet owners or prevent current tenants from keeping pets. Renting with pets is possible and increasingly com...

Landlords: furnished or unfurnished rentals?

By Rédaction Roomlala 06/07/2017

There is no legal definition of ‘furnished’ or ‘unfurnished’ rentals in UK law, but your choice to furnish your rental – or advertise the availability of both options – will impact your rental in other ways. While many think that a furnished rental will represent a higher earning, there are different fiscal implications for both options. Furnished vs unfurnished: how does this impact the rental? As a landlord, choosing to offer a furnished rental instead of an unfurnished property will m...

Find a flatshare or houseshare in Wellington

By Rédaction Roomlala 06/05/2017

As the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington is one of the country’s best student cities, with a huge number of students living and studying at the Victoria University of Wellington and Massey University – Wellington campus. Living in Wellington you will have the choice of a huge number of events, attractions and activities. At the southern tip of the North Island, Wellington is the windiest city in the world. Despite this unusual title, ‘Windy Wellington’ remains a popular destination for int...

Find a spare room in Belfast

By Rédaction Roomlala 06/02/2017

Belfast is a brilliant destination for a trip, no matter what you’re after. Students and tourists are consistently impressed by the historic monuments and museums, as well as the breathtaking scenery a short journey outside the city and the great nightlife at its heart ! Whether you’re studying at Queen’s University or Belfast Met, enjoying a weekend stay or moving for work, the Northern Irish capital will welcome you with open arms. Taking a spare room in a private home will offer you a cheaper...

Top 5 summer destinations in the UK

By Rédaction Roomlala 05/31/2017

Already dreaming of your summer break with your mates, your kids or your significant other? You don’t have to jet off abroad to find a great holiday destination – there’s a ton of great places to spend a week or weekend right here on our very own doorstep. Load up the car, find the walking boots or swimming costumes and get exploring all around the United Kingdom! Cornwall Cornwall is one of the top suggestions on any British holidaymaker’s list of great places to visit close to home. It’s...

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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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?

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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

By Rédaction Roomlala 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...

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