There is a wide-range of accommodation available in the UK. Anything from hostels, room shares or house shares to privately furnished rented accommodation. Whether you need temporary or longer term digs, it is advisable not to commit to anything long term until you arrive in the UK and have a chance to assess what is on offer. Base yourself in cheap short term digs to start off with, preferably a hostel where you can do daily or weekly reservations.
The West is definately the best to head for if you are looking to share a flat or house with others due to transport links, Heathrow is close by and getting into Central London is a doddle. Avoid if possible always having to cross zone 1 in London as it not only increases costs, but adds time to journeys.
Some good areas to keep in mind are :-
North - Willsden Green, Finchley, Swiss Cottage, Camden, Angel, - some very cheap accommodations, but can be difficult to travel from.
East - Leytonstone, Barking, Canning Town, Canary Warf - Sometimes very cheap but transport can be difficult with long journeys.
West - Acton Central, East Acton, Shepherds Bush, Hammersmith, White City - Cheap accomodation with good night life locally, good transport links.
South - Clapham, Wimbledon Park, Southfields, - cheap and upbeat, lots of local entertainment.
As in all large cities some areas are not reccommended for a variety of reasons. If you are not sure on an area, best ask around from people you meet here, or send a question to Mae on mae@tribeassociates and we will find out for you.
Avoid - South Brixton, Peckham, Elephant & Castle.
Accommodation Options
Dossing
Sleeping on a mates couch or floor - until you outstay your welcome.
Hostels
Long term, daily or weekly. Week rates from �80-�150
RoomShare
Share a room with a mate or stranger in a house full to the brim from �55 p/week
Flat share
Own room in house full to the brim from �85 p/week
Bedsit
Own pad for peace and space from �140-�180 p/week
Flat or house
2 bedroom flat or house from �220 -�350 p/week, very dependant on locations
Bills
Almost always not included in rent. Gas, electricity, water, TV, phone and countil tax will vary per area and number of people
Leases
From 6 to 12 months, double deposit and 1st month rent in advance is the norm.
Hostels in various cities, incl London and Ireland
When in the UK the best way to find accommodation is via either the above sites, or try local free publications like the TNT Magazine, SA Times, Aussie Times, NZ Times and Loot.
