Student Guide

STUDENT LIFE A NO-NONSENSE GUIDE TO STUDENT LIFE. 2012/13

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STUDENT LIFE & ACCOMMODATION...

LEVI ROOTS

CHESKA HULL

CITY GUIDES

NIGHTS OUT

HI, I’M ALICE

WELCOME TO ACCOMMODATION FOR STUDENT’S ULTIMATE GUIDE TO UNIVERSITY ACCOMMODATION. Accommodationforstudents.com representative and Archaeology and Social Anthropology student at the University of Edinburgh. In the last four years, I’ve experienced some accommodation nightmares (ceilings falling in, uncommunicative landlords, mice in every cupboard), as well as having some of my best times at university in student houses.

University should be about making friends, having a great time and… studying of course. With all that going on, no discerning student has any time to get stressed out about accommodation; and with this handy guide in hand (or on screen) there’s no need to. From first years to post grads, choosing housemates to signing contracts, we have everything you need to know right here. We’ve left no stone unturned: for anxious first years weighing up the pros and cons of catered vs. self catered halls, check out our debate between die heart advocates of both options. For those who desire more independence, we have information of how to choose housemates, a house and how to get it once you’ve chosen. Cheska from E4’s Made in Chelsea has some indispensable advice on what makes a good and bad housemate (wonder who she might be talking about…). Your

student accommodation is also your social stage, as our recent research shows students spend more time socialising at home than out on the town. Check out our ideas for turning your student pad into the ultimate party zone. No party is complete without some good food and we have contributions from Britain’s youngest professional chef, Luke Thomas and student favourite Levi Roots.

Accommodationforstudents. com is the UK’s leading student accommodation website. We have more student property listings than any other site, and we don’t just find you houses, we find you housemates too! Check out the ‘find housemates’ section on our website for more information.

We are set up by students for students, and for that reason we are passionate about making sure none of you get ripped off.

We never charge students for any of our services, and through our new Accreditation Scheme we aim to improve the quality of student housing.

Enjoy the guide Alice.

Introduction | 3

CONTENTS CHOOSING A HOUSEMATE

6-7

FORMULA FOR A PERFECT HOUSEMATE

8-9

By Cheska Hull

TEN THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW CATERED VS NON-CATERED

10 - 11 12

By Georgia & Matt

NOW & THEN

13

VIEWING STUDENT PROPERTIES

14

By Jonathan Shearer

RECIPES FOR STUDENTS

15 - 17

FORMULA FOR A PERFECT HOUSEMATE

8-9

By Cheska Hull

By Levi Roots

BIRMINGHAM

18 - 24

By Helena Gonda

CARDIFF

25 - 31

By Charlie Withers

COVENTRY

32 - 36

By Natasha & Monica

DUNDEE

37 - 40

By Roderick Brown

EDINBURGH

41 - 44

By Alice Lacey

EXETER

45 - 51

By Liam Trim

GLASGOW

52 - 57

By Becky Gillard

HUDDERSFIELD

RECIPES FOR STUDENTS

15 - 17

By Levi Roots

58 - 61

By Ruvimbo Gombedza

LEEDS

62 - 67

By Marie Quinney

DOS AND DON’TS OF DECORATING

68 - 69

AVOID SMALL SPACE SYNDROME

70

MAKE YOUR ROOM SHINE

71

By Suzi Boyle

LEICESTER

72 - 77

By Hope Walker

LIVERPOOL

By Eliza Turtoi

4 | Contents

78 - 83

DOS & DON’TS OF DECORATING DOS & DON’TS OF DECORATING

68 - 69

GOURMET STUDENT COOKING ON A BUDGET 136 - 137

By Luke Thomas

LONDON

84 - 91

By Emma Wright

MANCHESTER

92 - 98

By Zina Patel

NEWCASTLE

99 - 103

By Martine Dietrich

NOTTINGHAM

104 - 110

By Tom Rourke

PLYMOUTH

111 - 115

By Rosemary Long

PORTSMOUTH

116 - 119

By Amrita Dasgupta

READING

120 - 123

By Zoey O’Brien

SHEFFIELD

124 - 130

By Georgie Beadmore

SOUTHAMPTON

131 - 133

By Richard Dixon

HOW TO THROW THE BEST THEMED PARTY

134 - 135

By Casilda Grigg

GOURMET STUDENT COOKING ON A BUDGET

136 - 137

By Luke Thomas

BEST PLACES & PRICES

138

The Accommodation for Students Results

TACKLING BILLS

139

HOW TO THROW THE BEST THEMED PARTY HOW TO THROW THE BEST THEMED PARTY

134 - 135

By Casilda Grigg

Glide - Bills Made Simple

Contents | 5

CHOOSING A HOUSEMATE

YOU’LL USUALLY SPEND YOUR FIRST YEAR AT UNIVERSITY LIVING IN THE UNIVERSITY’S HALLS OF RESIDENCE. YOUR NEW FLATMATES COULD END UP BECOMING YOUR BEST FRIENDS. HOWEVER, COME SECOND YEAR, YOU’LL HAVE TO START LOOKING FOR PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION AND THAT MEANS DECIDING WHO YOU WANT TO LIVE WITH. Most of the time, if you get on with the people you lived with in halls, you’ll probably decide to live with them. This is what I did after my first year – my three flatmates and I (plus two others) teamed up and found ourselves a six-bed house not too far from university and we had a great year living together. Don’t panic, though, if house-hunting season comes around and you’re not overly enamoured by your first-year flatmates.

By this point you’ll hopefully know lots of people on your course, or have met new friends by joining student societies, so ask if any of them are looking for a housemate, or else get a group together to look for a place. There’s always someone on the lookout for a flatmate, so you’ll never be left in the lurch! It’s always best to be a little careful though – even

though you have a good laugh down the pub with the lads on the lacrosse team, it doesn’t always mean you’re going to get on as housemates.

When choosing who you want to live with, a good place to start is by looking at yourself: what do you like doing and how do you like your house to be? You’re going to be around your housemates a lot, so they need to fit in with your personality and your living habits.

For example, if you’re a neat-freak and you know Dan only does his laundry when it starts to go crusty, then maybe keep asking around.

Likewise, if you’re a real party animal and Claire likes to be in bed by 11 at the absolute latest, you’re probably not going to be a good match either. I was lucky when it came to choosing my first house, as I already knew my flatmates and I worked really well sharing a living space. However, as we were bumping our number up

z ZZ from a four to a six, we had some important thinking to do – who would fit in with our ways? In the end, we asked two other girls to live with us; both of them were friends with one of my flatmates through a student society, and one was my course-friend, so we knew them both well already and were sure that their interests and habits were similar to ours.

Sometimes gender can be a bit of an issue when choosing housemates – you may decide you want to live as all boys/ girls or as a mixed-sex house. Either way is perfectly fine and as someone who has lived in both situations, I wouldn’t say one is better or worse than the other. Girls can be just as messy as boys and boys can get just as moody and nit-picky as girls, so never pick your housemates based on gender generalisations - the most important thing is that you and your housemates get on and enjoy living together.

Once you’ve got your group secured, it’s time to look for a place. From my experience, people tend to wait until they’ve got a full complement of housemates before they go house-hunting, because this means you can all decide together on the best place for all of you. However, if you’ve only got one or two new flatmates lined up and you’ve seen an awesome five-bed house that you just have to have, then one or two students can always take the initiative and put down a retainer or a holding deposit on a house to rent. This reserves the property and gives you time to find the rest of your flatmates.

There may come a time when one of your number drops out and you have to find a new flatmate. This can be for a variety of reasons – they may take a semester or a year abroad (like I did), they may have to drop out of their course, or (careful as you initial selection process might have been) the living situation might just not be working out for them.

If this happens, then don’t worry, because there are always people on the lookout for a room to rent.

Ask around your various friendship groups to see if anyone is in need of a place to live – that’s what my current housemates did when a room in their house became available at the end of last year, and it worked out incredibly well for them because they got to live with me. Hey, why are you laughing? Otherwise, if you’re really stumped about who to ask, or everyone you know is already fixed up, then you can always put out advertisements online – accommodationforstudents. com have a flatmate-finder service, for example. However, if you do this, you’re unlikely to know the prospective candidates beforehand, and that might mean having to interview them to see if they’ll fit in where you live. Here are some good questions to ask in this situation: How tidy are you (be honest, now)?

What time do normally go to bed?

How are your finances (ie. can you afford the rent and bills)?

Do you smoke?

Can you cook?

That last one may seem a bit unimportant, especially if you all usually cook for yourselves, but I swear my cake-baking prowess may have just been the clincher in securing me my room this year.

So if you think there could be cake (or indeed gourmet cuisine) in it for you, then it’s always wise to ask.

Number four might look irrelevant too, but trust me, if you hate dubstep, the last thing you want is it pounding through the wall at 1am whilst you’re trying to watch Doctor Who on iPlayer.

And that’s it, folks. Remember, whoever you decide to live with, it’s important that you get along, because there’s nothing worse than going home to a house full of people that drive you up the wall. University is all about having fun (and some studying too, so I’ve heard), and that includes having fun with the people you live with as well. So then, when hunting for housemates, remember to always ask the right questions, take your time to decide and make sure they have similar interests and living habits to you. Bear all this in mind and you’ll be well on your way to domestic bliss in no time.

Good luck and happy housemate-hunting!

What are your hobbies?

What music do you listen to?

What is your attitude towards nights out? Do you like a good party or are you more of a nightin-with-a-pizza type of guy/gal?

Choosing a Housemate | 7

÷ FORMULA

X FOR A PERFECT

HOUSEMATE

=

INTRODUCING STAR OF MADE IN CHELSEA, FRANCESCA HULL. FORMING PART OF THE PARTY-HARD MIC TRIO ALONGSIDE HER BEST MATES OLLIE AND BINKY, CHESKA HAS FIRMLY ESTABLISHED HERSELF AS ONE OF THE LEADING LADIES ON THE HIT E4 SERIES.

+-

8 | Formula Page Titlefor a Perfect Housemate

Housemates… love them or hate them, they can be messy, smelly and generally annoying. They like to buy different milk to you, prefer Eastenders to Coronation Street and leave the loo seat up, but if you get on together, a housemate can be the best friend you never had at school and the ultimate companion to share a kebab.

The relationship with a housemate is a strange one; you’re close but not too close. In marriage or relationships we can demand cuddles and fabulous sex, with housemates all they give you is a receipt for the energy saving light bulbs their mother has insisted they buy to ‘save the environment’…

Below are some examples of good and bad housemate traits that I have experienced…

The Mum

The Animal Lover

A good housemate is someone who lets you have house parties till 5am and then cooks you a bacon sandwich in the morning…

A good housemate doesn’t shout and yell when your puppy does a poo in their limited edition Converse trainers… (good aim Evie)

The Extra Space

The Free Taxi

A good housemate lets you hang 1,000 dresses in one of their bedroom cupboards because you have run out of space in your own room…

A good housemate is someone who gives you a lift to the pub when you could have walked and it’s out of their way…

The Inconsiderate A bad housemate leaves dirty boxers on the bathroom floor and uses your designer hair conditioner to shave their beard…

The Booty Caller A bad housemate brings back an annoying girl you don’t like who screams like a banshee when they have sex throughout the night and keeps you and the dog up till 5am…

The Marg Snob

The Scrote

A bad housemate gets cross with you when you fill the fridge with cheap margarine instead of real butter and throws it away…

A bad housemate uses your razor to shave their balls and then puts it back pretending it never happened…

Formula for Page a Perfect Title | 9

10 THINGS THAT EVERY STUDENT OUGHT TO KNOW BEFORE RENTING 1 Landlords have a legal obligation to provide their tenants with a copy of the Gas Safety Certificate before they move into a property.

2 Landlords have legal obligation to protect their tenants’ deposits under the terms of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme. They must inform their tenants of the scheme they are using within 14 days of accepting a deposit or face a fine.

3

4

If a Landlord changes their mind before the Tenancy Agreement is signed, all they are obliged to do is return the holding deposit to the tenant (even if it is the day that the tenancy is due to commence). Tenants should get the Tenancy Agreement signed by The Landlord as soon as the terms are agreed.

Tenants will be in a much stronger position to argue against spurious claims on their deposit if there is an inventory in place. If a Landlord does not provide an inventory, the tenant should think about producing their own. This may just be a set of digital photographs that are sent by recorded delivery to the Landlord, or their agent, on the first day of the Tenancy.

10 | Ten Things You Need To Know

5 If a property is rented on a shared basis then only one TV licence will be required.

If sharers have individual tenancy agreements, a licence will be required for each person that has a TV in their room.

7 If you are going through a letting agent, they will charge a referencing fee of between £20 and £100 per person. Tenants should try to negotiate this fee down as the cost to the agent of a basic reference is about £20 per person. An agent won't want to lose out on the higher fee from the Landlord for the sake of a few extra pounds from the tenant. Agents are not allowed to charge for showing you properties.

9 Burglars tend to target student areas as they are aware that security may be lax and electrical goods plenty. Students should ask their Landlord to fit key operating locks on the windows and 5 lever deadlocks on the external doors. Before taking a property, it is advisable to go back in the evening to get a feel for how safe the area is.

6 Full-time students are exempt from paying Council Tax but part-time students aren’t. Full-time students should avoid sharing with part-time students in case the household decides that it is unfair for the parttime student to pay the entire Council Tax bill on their own.

8 Most Tenancy Agreements run for 12 months. Students renting in non-student areas may be able to get a break clause inserted in to the agreement.

This allows the tenant to give notice and leave at any time during the second half of the agreement.

10 The rent per sharer tends to fall as the number of people sharing increases, up to a maximum of 4. Most student houses capable of sleeping 5 or more people are classed as Houses in Multiple Occupation and become more expensive for the Landlord to run.

Expert tips provided by My Property Guide

Ten Things You Need To Know | 11

CATERED VS NON-CATERED

BY GEORGIA & MATT

GEORGIA SPENT HER FIRST YEAR IN CATERED HALLS IN BRISTOL AND LOVED IT. MATT SPENT HIS FIRST YEAR IN SELF-CATERED HALLS IN EDINBURGH AND LOVED IT TOO. HERE’S WHAT HAPPENED WHEN THEY MET: Georgia: Catered accommodation is definitely the best. Every night everyone would eat together and decide where to go out too, and every morning a fry up would be there waiting for you to nurse your hangover!

Georgia: You’re so wrong! I’d much rather have someone to do the cooking for me and you don’t have to do the washing up!!! All this free time I had when you would have been washing up or cooking or doing something equally domestic, I was out there, meeting new people, joining crazy societies and having mental nights out! We even had a bar in halls selling cheeky one pound pints to bring everyone together, as well as sports teams and a play.

Georgia: Catered halls are like living in a hotel... with all your friends. In my catered halls they did special formal meals once a term, which were great. They were like a night out in themselves; everyone got all dressed up and we had some amazing food and then went to the halls bar which was a 2 second walk to dance the night away!!!!

Georgia: Catered halls are the best. You can throw parties in the second and third year. The bar in the halls is perfect for pre-lash so everyone goes out together, and on top of that, because everyone’s together in catered, you get discounts on drinks and entry for the large group! Plus, you don’t have any commitments, like cooking or washing up or going to the supermarket, which means you have more time for getting on the lash and general UNI banter.

I VOTE 12 | Catered vs Non-Catered

Matt: You can’t beat self-catered accommodation! Cooking as a group has brought me and my flatmates together. You can choose what you make, when you eat it and what goes where on your plate. There’s nothing like beans leaking into your eggs to make you lose the will to live of a morning.

Matt: Learning to cook is all part of leaving home!

And I don’t want to have to wake up early to eat breakfast, or eat my dinner at 5pm. We all know food tastes 10 times better when you’ve cooked it yourself (or at least given it 1 minute and 30 seconds in the microwave!). All the students I know who lived in catered accommodation just ended up eating out all the time and spending a fortune.

Matt: It’s more like boarding school than a hotel, and can you hold amazing house parties in a boarding school? All the ‘room parties’ I went to in catered accommodation were broken up by the warden! Formal meals and no flat parties might be ok for a square, but I like drinking with my friends, turning the music up and having a laugh. End of.

Matt: The best possible university experience is in self-catered accommodation. It gives you a sense of independence, you can eat when and where you want and you can learn valuable skills for the future like cooking and cleaning (or how to persuade others to do it for you). Parties are much better in self-catered accommodation too – they don’t get broken up (as often), and you can get a better idea of the city as a whole, outside of your cotton-wool halls. After all, university is meant to be a way to break away from your parents, and learn to fend for yourself. Best of all, I get to choose who sees me with a hangover.

STUDENT ACCOMMODATION NOW & THEN JONATHAN SHEARER BY

JONATHAN STUDIED CHEMICAL ENGINEERING AT UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH, PHILOSOPHY & LAW AT KENT, EDUCATION AT CAMBRIDGE AND ZOOLOGY AT LEEDS.

For many years he lived an itinerant lifestyle in countries such as Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, China, Vietnam, Brazil and Nigeria.

Whilst having spent much time as a teacher, he also worked as a barman, sewer digger, zookeeper, RSPB officer, banker and tarot card reader. In 2007 he was winner of the BBC reality show Castaway 2007 and is now a copy editor for The Jakarta Post.

I’ve been to a fair few universities in my time: Edinburgh, Kent, Cambridge, Cornwall and eventually, Leeds. I’ve graduated occasionally too, a welcome bonus! At Cambridge, I stayed in a college that hadn’t changed much in the last few centuries. In Cornwall, I was a hermit in a goat shed on a blasted heath; a bit atypical. I certainly didn’t have any (human) neighbours.

Edinburgh, 1982, was “my first time away from home”, which was the best thing about it! Pollock Halls was a notorious ghetto, but I originated in a real, brutal, council house ghetto and the only homesickness I experienced was at the prospect of returning there.

Twenty-five years later and I was in Pollock again for a conference.

Was anything different? Rooms had internet connections and some had new curtains! But some elements of student halls never change: there were the same Cider House Rules about bluetac, toasters, noise and overnight guests. Same useless warden, fresh vomit walls (lime), dried vomit floors (beige), irrelevant noticeboard perhaps with the same notices…

although different glass in the fire alarm, for sure!

The more modern rabbit hutches in Leeds today house a completely different set of people to when I was an undergrad. In my youth, halls of residence had a substantial population of secondyear students and similar numbers of exchange students. The foreign exchanges usually kept themselves to themselves and did curious things like study, so the active visible halls population boiled down to two or three freshers for every ‘oldie’. The impression now is that this ratio is now more like 8:1, perhaps more. Life in halls has become an e-fuelled Lord of the Flies, with girls and cheap booze.

Be thankful that the workload in first year is close to zilch!

In 1982 we didn’t have AIDS, tuition fees, the internet, ecstasy or IKEA. These things have had significant effects on how much time students spend in their student accommodation and what they do in there. The internet is something that would have vastly altered my undergrad days, most probably for the better, although there are negatives too, as nonsociable geeks have more license to remain isolated and lonely.

As long as you carefully weigh up the pros and cons, no matter where you choose in your first year, everything will be just fine.

I’d recommend staying as close to campus as possible though, lectures are hard enough to drag yourself to, without having to face a commute!

Now & Then | 13

THE LOST ART OF VIEWING STUDENT PROPERTIES SO YOU’VE FOUND YOUR HOUSEMATES, DECIDED ON LOCATION, LOGGED INTO ACCOMMODATIONFORSTUDENTS.COM AND DRAWN UP A SHORTLIST OF GREAT PROPERTIES. NOW IT’S TIME FOR THE VIEWINGS! THERE’S A CERTAIN ART TO VIEWING A STUDENT PROPERTY, ESPECIALLY Ask the boring things ‘Is the Consider the location. If it’s IN VERY COMPETITIVE furniture included?’ ‘Is there a your perfect property but is washing machine?’ ‘How long is miles from university and the AREAS, SO MAKE SURE the lease?’ ‘How is the electricity rest of your mates, think seriously YOU’RE PREPARED! and gas calculated?’ You don’t before compromising. You may Take all your housemates.

Dragging yourselves to the other side of town to view a property you might not even like may seem like a waste of time. However, sending the person who has somehow emerged as In Charge of the whole process (trust us, someone always will) alone, is a big mistake.

Once ‘In Charge’ has reported back to the rest of the group and you’ve organised a second viewing for the rest of you to see it, some other savvy students will undoubtedly already have snatched it up.

Don’t be influenced by the queue. For properties in competitive areas, there may be a huge line of students waiting to view the house or flat. It’s tempting to think ‘everyone else wants this place, I must have it!’ and sign the lease before you’ve even had a look inside. Next thing you know, you’re moving into a house with no oven and not enough bedrooms.

want a pay-as-you-go gas meter.

Trust us.

Check out the standard of upkeep. If the house has been inhabited by five heavy-drinking, chain-smoking, non-washing rugby players for the last year, the superficial upkeep may be low. Try and look past this, as the property will (hopefully) be cleaned before you move in. However, things like broken furniture, a mouldy bathroom and doors hanging off their hinges are probably a sign of a landlord who doesn’t take much time to update his property.

Speak to the current tenants.

If the students who are living in the property at moment are lurking about, it’s worth asking them how they’ve found living there.

Ask them how the landlord is at responding to problems, and what the neighbours are like. A student-hater next door can have a very detrimental effect on your social life.

14 | The Lost Art of Viewing Student Properties

optimistically think ‘The exercise is good for me!’ You will not be thinking this, or anything else optimistic, when you’re trudging to and from university in the rain for hours every week.

Speak to the letting agent. If the property is great but the price isn’t, it’s always worth asking if there’s any flexibility in the price. If not, and none of you plan to be there in the summer, ask if the lease can be reduced to ten months. It will save you wasting two months’ rent on a house you’re not even living in!

Most importantly, do not panic! There is plenty of student accommodation out there, and we post properties throughout the year, so don’t worry if you feel you’ve left it too late.

RECIPES STUDENTS for

CARIBBEAN RAREBIT SERVES 2 INGREDIENTS GRATED CHEESE 4 tbsp

REGGAE REGGAE SAUCE 2 tbsp

BEER* Just a slosh

BREAD 2 slices

TOMATOES 2 sliced

METHOD Heat up a grill and in the meantime mix the cheese with the Reggae Reggae Sauce. It’s traditional to have beer in Welsh Rarebit so if you’ve got a can open (Guinness, Dragon Stout or Red Stripe would be typically Jamaican), then add that too.

Put the bread under the grill until toasted.

Turn the slices over and top with the tomato and then the cheesy Reggae Reggae sauce mixture. Cook until melted and bubbling.

LEVI’S TIP Ready grated cheese is a great timesaver.

Keep a packet in the freezer and use it from frozen. It saves leftover cheese turning mouldy!

SCRAMBLED CHILLI EGGS EGGS 4

BUTTER A nice big dollop

REGGAE REGGAE SAUCE 1-2 tbsp

TOAST buttered

METHOD Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them lightly with a fork. Melt the butter in a small pan and then lower the heat and add the eggs.

Leave the eggs to cook for 30 seconds or so,

then cook, stirring often, until they have formed creamy curds.

Take off the heat and stir in the sauce, to taste.

Serve on buttered toast.

Recipes for Students | 15

REGGAE SAUSAGE SURPRISE | SERVES 7 VEG OR BEEF SAUSAGE 8 pack

HONEY 4 tbsp

REGGAE REGGAE SAUCE ½ bottle

MINT & CORIANDER LEAVES chopped

OIL 1 tbsp

JUICE OF LIME 1

METHOD Preheat oven to 200˚C

to marinate for an hour.

Mix together the Reggae Reggae, honey, oil, lime juice and chopped herbs. Add the sausages and, if you have time, leave them in the fridge

Place on a baking tray and put in the oven for approx 25 minutes until nice and sticky. Turn halfway through.

LEVI’S TIP Any sausages are great with this recipe and you can even use vegetarian ones, they go just as sticky!

LEVI’S MUCHOS NACHOS | SERVES 4 TORTILLA CHIPS 1 large bag

CHOPPED TOMATOES 1 tin

RED ONION 1 chopped

REGGAE REGGAE SAUCE ½ bottle

MOZZARELLA grated

CORIANDER* chopped

METHOD LEVI’S TIP For a bit of extra spice, add some sliced jalapenos before the cheese!

Take an ovenproof dish or tray and spread the tortilla chips over the bottom.

Mix the Reggae Reggae sauce with the tomatoes and chopped onion and pour over the top of the chips.

Sprinkle with cheese and place under a medium grill. Leave for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Serve with guacamole and sour cream.

NICE N SPICY PIZZA BREADS | SERVED 4 WHITE FRENCH STICK ½ a stick

TOMATO PUREE 1 tube

REGGAE REGGAE SAUCE 4 tbsp

BEEF TOMATO large sliced

SPRING ONIONS 1 chopped bunch

MOZZARELLA 250g grated

METHOD Mix the tomato puree with Reggae Reggae sauce. Cut the French stick in half then slice each piece down the middle, giving you 4 pieces.

Spread the tomato mixture over the top of each piece of bread then

16 | Recipes for Students

top with the tomato and onions.

Sprinkle with cheese and place under a medium grill. Leave for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

LEVI’S TIP Why not try making this Hawaiian and add pineapple and strips of ham?

FUNKY BUBBLE & SQUEAK | SERVES 4 POTATOES 500g cooked

LARGE CARROTS 2 diced & cooked

GREEN CABBAGE 1 small cooked

ANY LEFTOVER VEG -

REGGAE REGGAE SAUCE ½ bottle

BUTTER 50g

METHOD Heat the oil and butter in a pan then add the cooked vegetables (you may have to do 2 batches).

Using a potato masher crush them all together and into the hot butter, add the Reggae Reggae sauce.

On a medium heat, fry the mixture, turning occasionally (you want some crispy bits) until browned and heated through.

Serve on its own as a great snack or as a side dish to some sticky chicken or sausages.

LEVI’S TIP A great way to use up your leftover vegetables from a Sunday roast but you can add anything you want, mushrooms, peppers, spring onions – just mash it all in and enjoy!

SIZZLING STEAK SANDWICH | SERVES 4 BAGUETTES 4 part-baked

QUICK FRY STEAK 400g

RED ONIONS 2 large sliced

REGGAE REGGAE SAUCE 4 tbsp

VEGETABLE OIL 4 tbsp

BUTTER 50g

METHOD Take 2 frying pans and heat the oil in each. In one, fry off the onions and add the Reggae Reggae sauce. In the second, fry off the

LEVI’S TIP Why not try with some thinly sliced turkey steaks?

beef for a couple of minutes.

Slice the baguettes in half and place the steak and onions in both.

LEVI’S PIZZA T0 GO-GO PIZZA BASE 1

METHOD

REGGAE REGGAE COOKING SAUCE ⅓ cooking jar

PINEAPPLE CHUNKS 1 small tin drained

Heat the oven to 200°C. Put the pizza base on a baking tray. Spread over the cooking sauce.

Dot with the pineapple chunks and ham.

Scatter over the mozzarella.

HAM SLICES 2 cut into strips

GRATED MOZZARELLA 100g (large handful)

Put in the oven and heat for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the topping and base have heated through.

Optional Ingredient* Recipes for Students | 17

BIRMINGHAM CITY GUIDE HELENA GONDA BY

HELLO! I’M HELENA, CURRENTLY IN MY FINAL YEAR OF AN ENGLISH WITH CREATIVE WRITING DEGREE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM. I CHOSE TO STUDY AT BIRMINGHAM PARTLY BECAUSE OF THE AMAZING COURSE, BUT ALSO BECAUSE OF THE CAMPUS FEEL AND THE VIBRANCY OF THE CITY; THERE’S JUST SO MUCH TO DO! I love my degree (where else do you get to write plays or poetry for your dissertation?!) and after graduation I hope to continue to engage this creative side through the world of publishing.

Winterbourne is one of my favourite places to visit in Birmingham; the restored Edwardian house is surprisingly popular with University students. Always offering something to do on those dreary Sunday afternoons, the botanic gardens are a lovely walk whatever the weather and the craft workshops and exhibitions inject a little slice of culture to the average student life.

18 | Birmingham

NIGHTLIFE I’d start the night getting ready with friends, having drinks in the flat. Take your time – there are a lot of fashionable students in Birmingham who look on-trend even with a student budget, so whether it’s casual drinks or a wild night out, dressing to impress is key!

If we’re not heading on to a flat party, then drinks at Urban Village are a must; Selly Oak’s worst kept secret offers an amazing atmosphere and drinks starting at 99p.

Feeling sufficiently intoxicated, it’s time to head on to the clubs.

Lesser-known bars such as Arca or Sobar are good places to kick off your night and get you in the party mood. I wouldn’t recommend ‘posh’ places such as Mechu or Chameleon except on a student night, as the drinks will be pricey and the atmosphere pretty flat.

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Gatecrasher is one of the largest clubs in Birmingham and often attracts amazing artists and DJs (examples within recent months have included Steve Angello and Nicki Minaj), so you can guarantee you’ll have a good time, and it’s worth paying that little bit extra.

If it’s a budget night you’re after, Subway City offers entry (including 4 free drinks) for just £5, and the music has something for everyone.

On your return to Selly Oak, Adam’s Place or Rooster House are staples for your drunken food fix! Or if it’s a chocolate fix you’re after, the Tesco Express is open 24 hours…

EATING When you’re looking for lunch, the best place to go is Joe’s Bar in the Guild. It offers plenty of choice for a reasonable price, and if you can’t face up to too much food they also sell pizzas by the half - a perfect hangover cure! If you’re after something a bit healthier but don’t mind the price, the Mexican stall on-campus offers tasty tacos and burritos to add a bit of spice, and is well-placed if you’re late for a lecture. The Starbucks in Muirhead tower is the perfect place to grab a latte on those

20 | Birmingham

chilly winter afternoons. Every month sees the farmer’s market set up on-campus – this is a great opportunity to try something different, such as a healthy ostrich burger, while also supporting local businesses. Having time to spare for an evening meal, there’s plenty of choice in Birmingham. Known for its curry quality, you’d be hard pressed to find a better deal than the curry houses of Selly Oak, which offer enormous dishes for student budgets. Many operate a bring-your-own-booze policy, helping you save even more! If

you’re a Chinese fan then Ming Moon’s all you can eat buffet is definitely the place for you.

Located in the centre of town, it offers a little bit of everything – if you can manage to try it all, that is. Finally, if you’re after something a little bit special, Jamie’s Italian is located just outside the Bullring, and with websites such as studentbeans.com frequently providing offers, there’s no excuse not to have a little taste of luxury.

Page Title | 21

HIDDEN GEMS Winterbourne garden is really close to the University and is free for UoB students. It’s a great place which is packed full of history, so be sure to take advantage. Take a trip to Harbourne (only 3 miles away) to enjoy the café culture; oozing the laid-back Sunday lifestyle, it’s the perfect place to chill out from the stresses of Uni life (and a visit to the Fallen Angel Bakery is a must!) The Plough is a trendy pub that offers amazing value for money, though before relaxed setting can be dangerous – it’s easy to while away an afternoon with friends. Sunnier days can be spent relaxing with drinks in Brindley Place – the gorgeous setting offers canal-side bars that are second to none.

BEST THING The Christmas markets.

No, seriously. People flock from around the country to come to Birmingham’s Christmas markets; the goodwill-to-all feeling is heightened by a sense of excitement and anticipation that Christmas is drawing closer (or maybe it’s just the effects of the Glühwein). Perfect for picking up any last minute gift ideas, this festive treat is definitely a Birmingham highlight.

WORST THING The trains. While having a station located in the University campus is ideal for those days when you need to rush to town for a spot of retail therapy, this tends to be a popular idea, so you’ll often find the trains are busy. I suggest giving yourself an extra fifteen minutes for your journey, and prepare for nightmare waits with the Sunday train-time schedule.

22 | Birmingham

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

-9-

ARCA BAR

MING MOON CHINESE

Found at Hurst Street, Arcadian, B5 4T

Found at 16 Hurst Street, B5 4BN

-2-

- 10 -

ADAM’S PLACE

THE PLOUGH

Found at 546 Bristol Road, B29 6BD

Found at 21 High Street, Harbourne, B17 9NT

-3-

- 11 -

BRINDLEY PLACE

ROOSTER HOUSE

Located at 2 Brunswick Street, Brindleyplace, Birmingham B1 2JF

Found at 504 Bristol Road, B29 6BD

-4-

- 12 -

CHAMELEON

SOBAR

Found at 1 Victoria Square, Hill Street, B1 1BD

Found Hurst Street, Arcadian, B5 4TD

-5-

- 13 -

FALLEN ANGEL BAKERY

SUBWAY CITY

Found at 77 High Street, Harbourne, B17 9NS

Found at 27 Water Street, B3 1HL

-6-

- 14 -

GATECRASHER NIGHTCLUB

TESCO EXPRESS

Located at 182 Broad Street, B15 1DA

Found at Linden Road, B30 1PA

-7-

- 15 -

JAMIE’S ITALIAN

URBAN VILLAGE BAR

Found at Middle Mall (Bullring shopping centre) B5 4BS

Found at 580 Bristol Road, B29 6BE

-8-

- 16 -

MECHU CLUB

WINTERBOURNE HOUSE

Found at 47-59 Summer Row, B3 1JJ

Found at 58 Edgbaston Park Road, B15 2RT

22 | Page Title

Page Title | 23

BIRMINGHAM STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

HAVING THE SECOND LARGEST STUDENT POPULATION IN THE UK, IT’S ONLY TO BE EXPECTED THAT BIRMINGHAM HAS A LIVELY STUDENT CULTURE. ONE OF THE MANY PERKS OF THIS IS THE WEALTH OF CHEAP ACCOMMODATION. Users of the AFS website ranked Birmingham joint 6th in the UK, with an overall score of 58%, which is similar to other major cities such as London or Nottingham.

Birmingham scored particularly highly for quality of transportation links, as well as its shops and community feel.

Birmingham is a lively and vibrant city, with a diverse range of accommodation to match. But surely this must come at a price?

A survey conducted by AFS found that in 2012, the average Birmingham room rental was £61.31. Despite being a major university city, this is well below the national average of £68.70, making it the second year running that Birmingham has been significantly cheaper than the norm.

VOTED

H T 6 T N I JO AFS USERS BY

24 | Birmingham

Selly Oak is the most prominent student area in Birmingham, and this is reflected by rents of £54 - £63, and a score of 62% for satisfaction.

Other popular areas include the city-centre (74%) and The Vale (66%), however, these attract significantly higher rent prices (£84 and £104 respectively). Whilst

Harbourne was highly ranked for shops and community, but overall satisfaction was only 56%, and with no significant price benefit, it isn’t worth the extra distance.

AFS TOP TIP Five-Ways is just a train ride away from the University and attracts a 74% satisfaction score, and an average rent of £69. Beware, however, of missing out slightly on the community and campus feel afforded to students living in the Edgbaston area.

PRIVATE HALLS Birmingham offers a wide selection of private halls of residence, many of which include all bills in rent prices. Highlights feature Victoria Hall, which has a fantastic location in the heart of Selly Oak, a key student area, and recent renovation work has given a trendier feel to the flats.

Opal affords students a chic studio, central location and a gym and swimming pool on site.

Unite accommodation is equally impressive and has a presence ideal for students of any of the three Birmingham Universities.

CARDIFF CITY GUIDE

BY CHARLIE WITHERS

CARDIFF HAS THE FEEL OF A SMALL CITY, MAKING IT EASY TO FIND YOUR WAY AROUND QUICKLY, EVEN WHEN PEERING THROUGH A HAZE OF ALCOHOL OR A SHEET OF WELSH RAIN.

However, there are some essential features of this up-and-coming city that can slip through the cracks. To help you avoid missing out, here is a guide to three important aspects of Uni living.

I’m a third-year English Literature student who can’t get enough of the stage! Apart from theatre, my main interests are rugby, sports in general, and good food. With graduation looming, I’m looking into a career in the Marketing, PR, or Advertising sectors once I’ve stepped outside the Uni bubble.

Cardiff | 25

THE CLUBBERS GUIDE CARDIFF UNIQUELY COMBINES THE QUIRKY AND THE MAINSTREAM IN ITS CLUBBING SCENE.

THE FOODIES GUIDE WHEN YOU DECIDE TO GET A TAKEAWAY, THERE’S ONE ABSOLUTE GEM THAT MUST BE SAMPLED.

GREAT NIGHT OUT Cardiff uniquely combines the quirky and the mainstream in its clubbing scene. Big names like Oceana, Tiger Tiger, Glam, Walkabout and Vodka Revolution are great places to invest your student loan; they all have student nights with low drinks prices. However, if you really want to get to know the city, it’s going to mean delving a little deeper into the urban abyss...

Clwb Ifor Bach (known as ‘Welsh Club’ to those yet to absorb any of their chosen Uni home’s culture, and simply as ‘Clwb’ to those on more intimate terms

For a quieter experience, but not necessarily a more sober one, Buffalo Bar and Ten Feet Tall both offer sumptuous cocktails.

Look out for the flaming ‘Zombie’; patrons are limited to two a night – precaution or challenge? You decide!

EATING OUT For those times when the night before has rendered you incapable of pouring cereal, the best hangover breakfasts for your head and your wallet are found at Café Calcio and Café 37 (whichever is within the shortest stumbling distance). The Uni also looks after its students in these situations in the form of CF10’s impressive ‘Hangover Sandwich’ and the legendary Julian Hodge Building cooked breakfast. The latter is conveniently located in the same building as the allnight work centre for maximum efficiency in the dying hours of your deadline.

The Holy Grail for any Cardiff student who’s out at lectures for the day is Magic Wrap.

This establishment solves the lunch problem by being easily portable (if you’re trying to surreptitiously refuel at the back of a seminar, this is your best bet) and offering a vast choice of fillings – think Subway times 2, but with wraps!

When you decide to get a takeaway, there’s one absolute

26 | Cardiff

with the venue) stands out amongst the single branch clubs for its Motown floor on a Wednesday night, its cheap drinks, and its impressive variety of gigs. Speaking of variety, Flares is another fun venue on the road less travelled, feeding every student’s secret appetite for the classics of the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

gem that must be sampled: Zi’s Café is a Chinese takeaway with the option to eat in – definitely worth doing as the owners are genuinely friendly. It’s located on Woodville Road in the very heart of studentville and is, hands down, the best Chinese food I’ve ever tasted, and I’ve tasted a vast amount. And before you ask, of course it offers student discounts!

If you’re a budding chef, or simply want to avoid embodying the gastronomic cliché of the student, Wales is the place to be. Welsh Beef and Welsh Lamb have recently gained Protected Geographical Indication status and are amongst the highest quality ingredients in the world.

A good place to start your search for this mouthwatering Welsh produce in the capital is Cardiff Market. But it’s not just about meat; the market is a great place to buy seafood, fish, fruit, veg, and irresistible freshly baked Welshcakes too – there’s no excuse for missing home cooking in Cardiff!

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THE SPORTS FANS Rugby is, of course, a major part of Welsh national identity. Gameday in Cardiff is a phenomenal experience: a sea of red pours into the centre, the fortunate destined for the Millennium Stadium, others for the pub - any pub; they all show the rugby (O’neill’s on Trinity Street is a personal favourite). The bravest congregate by the BBC Big Screen outside St David’s Hall, with only their hope to keep them warm.

is also played in the international standard Millennium Stadium every year. Aside from rugby, the city plays host to Cardiff City football team which has been teetering on the edge of the Premiership in recent years; the SWALEC Stadium boasts county level cricket matches; and if you’re not a huge mainstream sports fan, the Cardiff Devils ice hockey games are always thrilling and not too expensive to see.

But it’s not just the internationals that excite the entire capital; the Welsh varsity game (between Cardiff and Swansea Universities)

-8-

- 16 -

WHERE’S IT AT?

OCEANA

TEN FEET TALL

Greyfriars Road, CF10 3DP

12 Church Place, CF10 1BG

-1-

-9-

- 17 -

TIGER TIGER

CAFÉ CALCIO

Westgate Street, CF10 1NS

Greyfriars Road, CF10 3AE

145 Crwys Road, CF24 4NH

-2-

- 10 -

- 18 -

MILLENIUM STADIUM

GLAM

CAFÉ 37

20-21 Trinity Street, CF10 1BH

Greyfriars Road, CF10 3AD

37 Salisbury Road, CF24 4AA

-3-

- 11 -

- 19 -

Working Street, CF10 1AH

65-74 Saint Mary Street, CF10 1FA

Student’s Union, Park Place, CF10 3QN

-4-

- 12 -

- 20 -

O’NEILS

BBC BIG SCREEN

WALKABOUT

CF10

VODKA REVOLUTION

JULIAN HODGE BUILDING

The Hayes via Working Street, CF10 1AH

9-11 Castle Street, CF10 1BS

Colum Drive, CF10 3EU

-5-

- 13 -

- 21 -

ST DAVID’S HALL

CLWB IFOR BACH

MAGIC WRAP

Just off Cathedral Road, CF11 9XR

11 Womanby Street, CF10 1BR

Student’s Union, Park Place, CF10 3QN

-6-

- 14 -

- 22 -

SWALEC STADIUM

FLARES

ZI’S CAFÉ

Leckwith Road CF11 8AZ

96 Saint Mary Street, CF10 1DX

94 Woodville Road, CF24 4ED

-7-

- 15 -

- 21 -

CARDIFF CITY FOOTBALL STADIUM

CARDIFF BAY ARENA Empire Way, CF11 OSP

28 | Cardiff

BUFFALO BAR

CARDIFF MARKET

11 Windsor Place, Cf10 3BY

Central Square, CF10 1AU

Page Title | 27

CARDIFF STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

CARDIFF IS A SMALL CITY AND, IN SOME WAYS, IT’S DOMINATED BY ITS STUDENT POPULATION. WHICHEVER AREA YOU WANT TO BE IN, THERE’S NO SHORTAGE OF STUDENTFRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION TO STUMBLE BACK TO. Users of the AFS website have rated Cardiff consistently highly as a place to live in recent years; its satisfaction score in 2012 is 60%, placing it among the top places to live in the UK. The same survey showed that Cardiff scored well on all attributes – Going Out, Shops, Transport, Community, Facilities – suggesting there are no major drawbacks to this city.

In terms of cost, the average room rent per week for Cardiff comes in just under the national average of £68.70. However, there is some exceptionally cheap accommodation to be found, with rent dropping as low as £35p/w.

VOTED

H T 5 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S 30 | Cardiff

Some of the cheapest accommodation can be found in Cathays – the main living area for students in Cardiff – with one AFS user reporting rent of £16p/w.

We can’t guarantee you’ll find anything quite that cheap! As well as being at the lower end of the

price scale, Cathays scores well in terms of student satisfaction with 66%. The other main student area, Roath, scored a solid 62%.

The city-centre is possibly the most popular area with 82% satisfaction, though there is less student accommodation available there so you have to get in there early if you want to be in the heart of the city. Alternatively, if you prefer to be a bit further out, Maindy appears to be worth the longer walk to town and Uni as its satisfaction score was a healthy 66%, scoring particularly well under the community category (80%).

AFS TOP TIP Despite its relatively low satisfaction score (56%), Canton scored well in the shops category (70%) and its decent transport score (60%) indicates that it wouldn’t be too difficult to make it to Uni. The main attraction of this area, though,

is the Chapter Arts Centre. The Arts Centre is a gem that’s all too well hidden from most students, boasting main and studio theatres, a gallery and an independent cinema – not to mention an exceptional café that does a great steak!

PRIVATE HALLS Student Castle provides a modern, all-inclusive approach to student living in Cardiff. Their mix of studios and cluster flats offer inclusive bills, internet, insurance, double beds and en suites. They are also perfectly located for students of Glamorgan and Cardiff Universities and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

Cardiff | 31

COVENTRY CITY GUIDE

BY NATASHA & MONICA

HI, WE ARE NATASHA, A FIRST-YEAR MEDIA PRODUCTION STUDENT, AND MONICA, A MARKETING AND ADVERTISING STUDENT. WE ARE BOTH A GREAT NIGHT OUT very student-friendly in both price and atmosphere, The Quids Inn There are plenty of great STUDENTS AT is a student-only venue so make places to eat and drink sure you have your student ID! in Coventry that suit the COVENTRY The Quids Inn is slightly livelier student budget nicely. We would than Phoenix, but both put on an off at a Wetherspoons for UNIVERSITY. start equally good night. I would then dinner; the food is good and you can get some great deals. Keep an eye out for Wetherspoons’ money off vouchers that circulate, particularly around Fresher’s week.

There are many to choose from, both in the city-centre and on the outskirts; it’s easy to find one within a short distance of your accommodation.

Our next stop would be either The Quids Inn or Phoenix. Both are

32 | Coventry

head to one of the clubs, probably Kasbah, Platinum or Jumpin Jaks.

All three are easily accessible, with cheap drinks and good music.

The nights vary so it’s always worth checking each club’s Facebook page to see what’s on, and keep an eye out for good student deals!

Or there’s always the Students’ Union’s very own, club Square One, located on the ground floor of The Hub.

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

THE FLYING STANDARD 2-10 Trinity Street, West Midlands CV1 1FL

-2-

THE CITY ARMS 1 Earlsdon Street, CV5 6EP

-3-

THE EARL OF MERCIA BEST PLACES TO EAT At lunchtime, where better to go than the campus’ own food court on the first floor of The Hub? There’s so much to choose from, including Costa Coffee, Tattoria pizzeria and a Grab and Go for paninis and sandwiches. Why go anywhere else when you can get yourself a baguette for a pound?

If you want to avoid the university campus, The Quids Inn or Wetherspoons’ serve food all day, whether you want a hot meal or just a sandwich. There are plenty of places to choose from for dinner; there’s a Nando’s in the city centre, a Bella Italia just on the outskirts and plenty of restaurants and cafés, all within easy walking distance of the university.

HIDDEN GEMS There are plenty of places to go in Coventry, both within the city-centre and just outside. Coventry’s indoor market, selling everything from dog treats to clothes, is the perfect place to go as part of your weekly food shop; you can pick up a week’s worth of fruit and veg for under a fiver. Just outside the city is the War Memorial Park, just a very quick bus ride away. It’s the perfect place to go on a sunny day, take a picnic and enjoy the views. You can spend an afternoon exploring Coventry’s motoring history at the Transport Museum. It is surprisingly interesting and its free!

18 High Street, CV1 5RE

Because Coventry was bombed during the war and rebuilt in the 1960s, it can be quite hard to find old architecture. Coventry Cathedral stands out, as it is the perfect location for any budding photographer and animal lovers can visit the cathedral greens and feed the many resident squirrels.

However, you have to look hard to find any ‘hidden’ slices of history.

One of our favourites is ‘The Old Windmill’ a pub which is hundreds of years old and is the last remaining bit of medieval Coventry.

THE BEST THING It is easy to be a student in Coventry. It is a studentfriendly town and everything you need is easily accessible and within walking distance. It is also relatively low cost, so you can enjoy your time as a student without worrying too much about the expense.

THE WORST The main downside is how grey and built-up it is. The nearest parks are too far away to walk, so there’s nowhere to go to have a nice scenic walk, and there’s very little wildlife unless you want to take a bus ride somewhere. On the plus side, it is not too difficult to travel out of the city.

-4-

THE SPON GATE Unit 2M, The Sky Dome, CV1 3AZ

-5-

THE QUIDS INN 118 Gosford Street, CV1 5DL

-6-

PHOENIX 122 Gosford Street, CV1 5DL

-7-

KASBAH Primrose Hill Street, CV1 5LY

-8-

PLATINUM Tower Street, CV1 1JN

-9-

JUMPIN JAKS (JJ’S) The Sky Dome, Croft Road, CV1 3AZ

- 10 -

SQUARE ONE The Hub, CV1 5QT

- 11 -

NANDO’S 1-6 Ribbon Factory, Trinity Street, CV1 1FE

- 12 -

BELLA ITALIA Unit 1, 4 Belgrade Plaza, CV1 4AJ

- 13 -

THE OLD WINDMILL 22 Spon Street, CV1 3BA

- 14 -

TRANSPORT MUSEUM Hales Street, CV1 1JD

34 | Coventry

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COVENTRY STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

COVENTRY IS A STUDENT-FRIENDLY AREA WITH MANY SHOPS AND FACILITIES WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE. PRIVATE HALLS ARE OF HIGH QUALITY AND OFFER GREAT VALUE. AS A FIRST-YEAR AFS TOP TIP STUDENT, LIVING IN PRIVATE HALLS WAS ONE OF MY BEST EXPERIENCES AND I WOULD RECOMMEND IT PRIVATE HALLS TO ANY STUDENT THAT WISHES TO MOVE OUT FOR UNIVERSITY. Coventry has an overall student satisfaction score of 56%, which really places it in the mid-table of national student satisfaction, according to AFS users. However, the city has been given an overall high rating of 6 for shops, transport and community.

VOTED

H T 7 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S 36 | Coventry

The average rent for living in Coventry is £63.22; well below the national average for student rents of £68.70. So while the city does not score as highly for student satisfaction as I think it should, it does offer low rents and this is a major positive as budgeting is seen as a significant concern for many students. Earlsdon, Stoke, Cannon Park and Hillfields have a high volume of student residents and offer cheap housing at similar prices of £54-£75 per week; however, they may not be rated by students as the best areas to live in Coventry.

Stoke is a popular choice for students as it is within walking distance of both the city-centre and the University. It has an average rent of £63, with the maximum rent of £98 per week.

There is a range of houses offered in Stoke that students can select to suit their needs when looking at properties.

Coventry has a wide selection of safe and friendly private halls owned by Unite and Study Inn. Study Inn has three halls in Coventry, all with great accessibility to the University and city-centre.

Each is renowned for their high levels of security and helpful staff.

Unite also has a selection of three well-located Halls, which offer ensuite rooms in shared flats as well as some studio accommodation.

DUNDEE CITY GUIDE

BY RODERICK BROWN

I’M RODERICK BROWN. I’M IN MY FINAL YEAR, STUDYING HISTORY, AND I LIVE IN PERTH ROAD, DUNDEE. GOING OUT

An army marches on its stomach, and in Dundee, you can start the night with a takeaway from Istanbul, which is cheap, cheerful, and most importantly, gives you big portions of pizzas and kebabs for your money. If you want to go beyond drinks in the flat, then head to Medina for a decent cocktail and a burger to go with it. If the quiet life is your thing, then The Art bar is tucked away on Perth Road.

It’s great for a few chasers, and usually features live music. Braes does a decent quiz night, the chips are pretty good, and people tend not to cheat that much!

If live music is your first or even second love, then the Doghouse is the place to go for live events or up and coming local bands.

The people are friendly and the acoustics are first class. Dundee wouldn’t be Dundee without a trip to Liquid, or the ever cheap and cheerful Fat Sam’s. The entry price is decent, theme nights are ever present and laden with cheese and with its multitude of floors, there’s something for everybody.

If you want the ‘authentic’ experience, then Kage nightclub could be to your liking. They vow never to play anything featured on the X-Factor! To end the night, a trip to Clark’s all-night bakery is a must. Chances are you’ll be walking past it anyway and fresh rolls straight from the oven are hard to refuse.

Dundee | 37

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

TONIC BURGER BAR Found at 141 Nethergate, Dundee, Scotland DD1 4DP

-2-

ISTANBUL TAKE-AWAY Found at 117 Nethergate Town Centre, DD1 4DW

-3-

MEDINA BAR & GRILL BEST PLACES TO EAT

BEST THING

The ever popular Students’ Union has rightly claimed top prizes for choice, price, and atmosphere, but if you’re looking for something exotic, say a marshmallow burger, then Tonic is your new friend. There are over fifty burgers to choose from, and the hot chocolate and coffees are pretty good. For sandwiches, McDermott’s puts Subway to shame for choice and price, if you don’t mind the queues. Numerous cafés dotted around Caird Hall, are somewhat pricey, but worth it for the fresh baking they do and the sophisticated feel you get sitting there with your Kindle and coffee!

Atmosphere – unlike other cities, there is nothing pretentious about Dundee, and most people out on the town are out for a good time. It is not surprising that it has won a best student experience award year after year.

HIDDEN GEMS The Botanic Gardens are a great nook for those inclined to peace and quiet. It looks great, smells great, and is free for students. If you’re feeling really fit, or want to burn off that big lunch, then the war memorial on top of Dundee Law provides stunning views of the River Tay and nearby Fife and Angus. The world famous Victoria and Albert is well worth a look, especially for the displays about Kengo Kuma’s award-winning design for the redevelopment of Dundee’s waterfront.

38 | Dundee

WORST THING Hills and stairs. Walking from the train station or the bus station to the campus is an uphill struggle – even when you’re going back the same way! Most of Dundee’s buildings were built years ago and it shows – no lifts anywhere. As most of the student flats to rent are high up in the various buildings they occupy, this is a problem. It’s especially annoying if you’re a take-away driver going up to the fifth floor, or struggling with heavy bags of shopping. I’d hate to be tipsy and going down those stairs with heels on.

Found at 113 Nethergate DD1 4DH

-4-

FAT SAM’S Found at 31 South Ward Road, DD1 1PU

-5-

KAGE NIGHT CLUB Can be found at 4 Saint Andrew’s Lane, DD1 2EY

-6-

BRAES Found at 14-18 Perth Road, DD1 4LN

-7-

THE ART BAR Found at 140b Perth Road, DD1 4JW

-8-

LIQUID Is found at 21 South Ward Road DD1 1PU

-9-

CLARK’S ALL NIGHT BAKERY Can be found at Annfield Road DD1 5JH

- 10 -

BOTANIC GARGENS Is found at Riverside Drive DD2 1QH

THE HUB STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

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The Hub Student Accommodation | 17 Hawkhill | Dundee | DD1 5DL | Tel: 0844 371 5619 | Email: Dundee@crm-limited.co.uk

DUNDEE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

DUNDEE IS A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE AND STUDY, BUT DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT, AS THIS YEAR IT WON THE TIMES HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENT EXPERIENCE SURVEY. IN A SEPARATE SURVEY FOR THE AFS WEBSITE, DUNDEE AFS TOP TIP RANKED NUMBER 4TH IN THE WHOLE OF THE UK, WITH A SCORE OF 62%, RANKING PARTICULARLY HIGH IN THE AREA PRIVATE HALLS OF TRANSPORT. The city boasts a wide variety of accommodation types in a host of locations, with a huge range of private and University-owned accommodation. Despite this variety, rents are amongst the lowest in the UK, with Dundee ranking 68th out of 80 towns and cities; the 2012 survey showing Dundee to be cheaper than most of its Scottish rivals such as Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.

VOTED

H T 4 T N I JO S USERS

BY A F

40 | Dundee

In the Dundee area, the main student areas are the city-centre and the West End, which have scored 82% and 66% respectively in our student survey. However, average rents in the West End can rocket as high as £104 a week, whilst in the city-centre they can be as low as £50 a week, or as high as £75 per week, quite a fluctuation compared to the city average of £56 per week.

The best areas for student satisfaction are Dryburgh (86%) and the University campus (82%) but with average rents of £120 per week, students are paying way above the city average for this level of satisfaction.

For a good, honest choice, Perth Road stands out. Solid satisfaction levels (60%) coupled with average rents of £55 per week, make it a decent choice. It’s halfway between the West End and the city-centre, near to most of the University’s campus buildings, and right at the heart of the action, with pubs, clubs and things to do within easy walking distance.

The main private hall in Dundee is The Hub, which is operated by CRM Students. The Hub is a mix of 4 and 5 bedroom flats, all of which are en-suite and fully furnished.

Ideal for students who are looking to share, they are also located very close to the University and local amenities.

EDINBURGH CITY GUIDE ALICE LACEY BY

HI, I’M ALICE, THE EDITOR OF THIS GUIDE AND A FINAL-YEAR ARCHAEOLOGY AND SOCIAL ANTHROPOLOGY STUDENT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH.

A GREAT NIGHT OUT I’d start the night with a take-away with friends.

Kas Bah, in Marchmont, is especially good food and very well suited to a student budget. We’d have some drinks in the flat, then head on to a flat party, or out to a bar or club. I’d rather not head to the ‘classy’ clubs on George Street, they’re usually pretty dire.

The Caves always puts on good nights. Although they’re sporadic and tickets tend to be pricey, they attract really good DJs and it’s always worth the extra cost.

Just next door, Sneaky Pete’s is good and often free entry. Bongo was an Edinburgh staple, but sadly is going to be closed down shortly as the University is not renewing the lease - it will be a real loss.

To finish off the night, a quick snack from Palmyra or Pizza Paradise is a must! Only in Edinburgh could you find a candlelit restaurant filled with people sitting down enjoying some pizza and a bottle of wine at 4am...

Edinburgh | 41

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

KAS BAR Found at 24 Marchmont Road, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH9 1HZ

-2-

THE CAVES Found at 8-12 Niddry Street, South Edinburgh, EH1 1NS

-3-

SNEAKY PETE’S BEST PLACES TO EAT At lunch time, I’d tend to avoid the library café, where the food is pretty basic and overpriced, and....it’s in the library. The library bar in Teviot does big portions at a reasonable price, but the food is pretty stodgy - good nachos though! The Elephant Soup van, often parked outside CMB, serves fresh soup and a roll and is great if you’re in a rush (or want to surreptitiously eat lunch at the back of a seminar). Palmyra or Elfalafel are both great any time of day or night for falafel (or chips).

If you’re starving - head to Mosque Kitchen or Mother’s Kitchen - they serve enormous plates of curry for next to nothing!

HIDDEN GEMS There are lots of great places to visit in Edinburgh outside of Princes Street and George Square. The main street in Stockbridge, an area in New Town, has a huge number of ’upmarket’ charity shops stocking really good quality clothes, books and music. The Botanic Gardens, also in New Town, are free to enter and have great views over the city.

If you’re feeling active, walk over (or round) Arthur’s Seat to the village of Duddingston and enjoy a pint at The Sheep’s Heid, a cosy pub that

42 | Edinburgh

looks like it’s in the middle of the countryside. When the sun comes out, Portobello beach is only three miles from the city-centre. Gear up for an old fashioned beach experience: the esplanade has a Wimpy, an arcade and plenty of fish and chips and ice cream shops.

BEST THING The Meadows in good weather. During the week or so a year when the sun comes out in Edinburgh, The Meadows become awash with students and Edinburgh residents.

Disposable barbecues become your source of every meal and Sainsbury’s sells out of beer within twenty minutes of the temperature topping 20C.

WORST THING The Meadows in bad weather. Walking through the Meadows to University in high force winds, with hailstones literally bruising your face is not a pleasant experience and will leave you questioning why you didn’t pick a university further south. This is a genuine health and safety risk - in 2011, there was an actual ‘hurricane’ in Edinburgh and everyone was sent home from University to wait it out in their flats!

Found at 73 Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1JW

-4-

BONGO CLUB Found at 37 Holyrood Road, Edinburgh, EH8 8BA

-5-

PALMYRA PIZZA Found at 22 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9DH

-6-

PIZZA PARADISE Found at 4-6 South Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1LL

-7-

MOTHER’S KITCHEN Found at 77 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9BZ

-8-

MOSQUE KITCHEN Found at 50 Potterow, Edinburgh, EH8 9BT

-9-

ELFALAFEL Found at 15 Bristo Place, Edinburgh, EH1 1B1

- 10 -

SHEEP’S HEID INN 43-45 The Causeway, Duddingston, Edinburgh, EH15 3QA

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EDINBURGH STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

EDINBURGH IS A CITY OF TWO HALVES, REPRESENTED BY ITS OLD TOWN AND NEW TOWN. THE UNIVERSITY IS LOCATED IN THE OLD TOWN; HOWEVER, THE SPACIOUS FLATS IN NEW TOWN CONTINUE TO BE POPULAR WITH STUDENTS.

Users of the AFS website ranked Edinburgh 5th in the UK, with an overall score of 62%. This puts Edinburgh in third place among Scottish universities, scoring below Aberdeen and Dundee. Among our students, Edinburgh scored particularly highly for quality of transportation links. Students must be impressed by the new tram line being built!

As a capital city, the room rental costs in Edinburgh tend to be high. The nature of Edinburgh architecture means that students live in flats rather than large houses, and so cannot split rent between more than around five people. The average room rental of £78.57 in 2012 is significantly more expensive than the national average of £68.70. In our 2012 survey of average rents, Edinburgh was found to be the fourteenth most expensive student city in the UK, falling just below Bristol.

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H T 5 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S 44 | Edinburgh

Within Edinburgh there is a high concentration of students in Bruntsfield, Polwarth and Marchmont. Popular due to their proximity to Edinburgh universities, these areas do not contain the cheapest room rentals and continue to cost over the city average. Neither do they score particularly highly for student satisfaction. AFS found that student satisfaction rose dramatically with proximity to the city-centre, with accommodation in the centre and Lothian Road area consistently scoring over 64% for student satisfaction.

Other areas which score particularly highly for student satisfaction include Southside (72%) and Sciennes (68%).

However, with an average weekly rent of £120, Southside proves an expensive option. Although further from the city-centre, Leith provides a cheaper choice, with weekly rents of £71, which is below the city average, coupled with a reasonable satisfaction rating of 64%.

AFS TOP TIP Fountainbridge is conveniently located for most Edinburgh universities, with good transport links into the centre, and a fantastic range of nearby facilities.

As a result of this, the area scored highly in our student satisfaction ratings (68%), while remaining very affordable for such a central location (average weekly rent of £58).

PRIVATE HALLS Unite halls are located across the city in convenient areas for all Edinburgh universities. The modern blocks offer comfortable (and well insulated!) accommodation, with all the latest mod cons. Lady Nicholson Court is located spitting distance from George Square while McDonald Road halls are located slightly further from the city-centre, but have fantastic transport links to Queen Margaret’s and Heriot Watt campuses. Unite also have halls on Chalmers Street, Panmure Court and Portsburgh Court.

EXETER CITY GUIDE

BY LIAM TRIM

NIGHTS OUT

I’M LIAM TRIM AND I’M IN YEAR 2 STUDYING HISTORY AND I LIVE IN THE ST. JAMES AREA OF EXETER

Any good night out in Exeter has to start with drinks in your house or flat, perhaps preceded by an inexpensive feast from Best Kebab or the Uni Snack Bar, which is better known as simply ‘the burger van’ to some. I would not recommend relying entirely on the bar in the nightclub you’re heading to, as deals on drinks are limited and depend on the night.

Most students choose to ‘predrink’ because they have to think with their wallets. However, unless you buy tickets or plan your time of arrival carefully, the queue to Arena or Timepiece will sober you up anyway. It’s for this reason that I enjoy embracing the naff brilliance of Cheesy Tuesdays at Arena. Tipsy or otherwise, the so-bad-it’s-good music selection is perfect for a good laugh, a dance or a singalong.

You won’t always be in the mood for bizarre retro dance moves or Arena’s peculiar aroma though.

For better music, it’s worth sticking out the crowds at Timepiece,

which has a downstairs bar full of character, as well as two other floors with different types of music.

Alternative nights out can be found at Cavern or The Cellar Door, which is by the quayside and quite a trek from town. But if you like good DJs, and the idea of free toast at the end of the night, then The Cellar Door is probably worth the walk.

I usually prefer a chilled night and Exeter has plenty of places with a more relaxed vibe. In fact, the city has an impressive selection of atmospheric bars and restaurants with an affordable range of drinks. Mama Stones, owned by the mother of singer Joss Stone, as the name suggests, offers live music every night of the week. The Old Firehouse, which inspired JK Rowling when she was creating The Leaky Cauldron for the Harry Potter books, has a superb stock of ciders and gigantic pizzas after 9pm. The Monkey Suit teams comfy leather sofas with a general air of sophistication. Normally though I’ll just head to one of Exeter’s many, many pubs.

Exeter | 45

PLACES TO EAT

IF YOU’RE EATING OUT IN THE EVENING IN EXETER THERE ARE LOTS OF PLACES TO CHOOSE FROM

Exeter’s latest stylish eatery is simply called ‘Bill’s’ and can be found on Gandy Street. It’s the perfect place to start the day with that much-needed, post-hangover breakfast. All the ingredients are top notch and the friendly staff help create the calm, comfortable atmosphere. If you have friends visiting Exeter, this is the place to take them to catch up. You can impress them with the scrumptious scrambled eggs or the delicious scones when it comes to afternoon tea. If you’re doing the hangover breakfast on a budget though, Terry’s on Sidwell Street is the better choice. Here you can handpick your own breakfast combination and tuck in to generous portions at very cheap prices.

Spending all day on campus to meet that essay deadline? I can recommend the basket meals in the Guild-run bar, The Ram. Tasty and filling curly fries are the speciality here, and they feel deserved after a day hitting the books.

If you’re eating out in the evening in Exeter there are lots of places to choose from, but many establishments don’t exactly go out of their way to include cheaper options on the menu. Exeter has four Wetherspoons though, the most popular of which being The Imperial, which I’m led to believe is one of the largest pubs in the country. If you’re after something more upmarket than the city’s biggest student haunt, Harry’s Bar and Grill always smells irresistible to passersby.

HIDDEN GEMS

THE QUAY OUGHT TO BE ONE OF EXETER’S TOP ATTRACTIONS BUT IT’S EASILY MISSED.

The quay ought to be one of Exeter’s top attractions but it’s easily missed. A short walk from Cathedral Close and you’re there, although locating it for the first time can be confusing. I love the peace and quiet by the water and there are numerous quirky shops and restaurants to pass the time in.

If you’re feeling adventurous you can jog, or walk, along the water’s edge into the countryside of surrounding Devon. This is one of the most wonderful things about studying in Exeter, being just a stone’s throw away from rural escapism or a sea view. Another hidden gem hiding in plain sight is the Cathedral. It’s definitely worth venturing inside this magnificent building, especially as the outside is sadly often littered with unsightly scaffolding.

For film fans, Picturehouse cinema is worth seeking out. It has moneysaving deals specifically aimed at students and offers a far more enjoyable viewing experience than Vue or Odeon.

46 | Exeter

WESTERN CHALLENGE

BEST THING

WORST THING

For me the best thing about Exeter is the mixture of the old and the new. In the city-centre you have the pretty grandeur of the relaxing Cathedral Close, bordered by cafés and restaurants with impressive original beams. When the sun shines, everyone lounges on the grass in this area. But when you’re done lazing about you can hit the shops, strolling leisurely up old fashioned streets to the modernity of the Princesshay shopping centre.

No matter how I dress it up, Exeter’s nightlife simply does not compare to that of a larger student city. Of course there’s still plenty of fun to be had, especially with the right group of friends, but if you’re used to sprawling clubs with impressive DJs then lower your expectations.

Exeter also struggles to attract top bands or other big names because it lacks a high capacity venue. Having said this, the student crowds do draw in the odd performer, from Tinchy Stryder to Feeder, or from Rizzle Kicks to comedian Russell Kane. You also have to travel out of the city-centre for a sizeable supermarket.

On campus, there’s the new £48 million Forum development, which feels like a cross between a university building and a high-class hotel. Exeter is small for a city but there is plenty to do, with a thriving student community supplemented by independent shops, restaurants and businesses.

-5-

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

- 10 -

THE CELLAR DOOR

TERRY’S

4 The Quay, EX2 4AP

31b Sidwell St, EX4 6NN

-6-

- 11 -

MAMA STON’ES

THE RAM BAR

132a Sidwell Street, EX4 6RY

1 Mary Arches St, EX4 3BA

New North Road, EX4 4PQ

-2-

-7-

- 12 -

BEST KEBAB

THE OLD FIREHOUSE

THE IMPERIAL

20-21 1 Summerland Street, EX1 2AF

50 New North Road, EX4 4EP

New North Road, EX4 4AH

-3-

-8-

- 13 -

ARENA

THE MONKEY SUIT

HARRY’S RESTAURANT

6 Little Castle St, EX4 3PX

161 Sidwell St, EX4 6RH

86 Longbrook Street, EX4 6AP

-4-

-9-

- 14 -

TIMEPIECE

CAVERN 83-84 Queen St, EX4 3RP

48 | Exeter

BILL’S

PICTURE HOUSE

Musgrave Row, EX4 3JR

51 Bartholomew Street West, EX4 3AJ

SUITABLE FOR COUPLES LARGE SLEEK & STYLISH STUDIOS IN A FANTASTIC CITY CENTRE LOCATION If it’s a lively, central location you’re looking for as a student; look no further than Iron Bridge Studios. The city centre is literally within walking distance from this ideal student accommodation.

• LARGE STYLISH STUDIOS WITH MODERN FURNITURE AND A SLEEK KITCHEN WITH HIGH-EFFICIENCY FITTINGS AND APPLIANCES • 26” SAMSUNG LED TV IN EVERY STUDIO • FREE HIGH SPEED BROADBAND & FREE CONTENTS INSURANCE T: 0844 371 5637 E: IRONBRIDGE@CRM-STUDENTS.COM

BOOK ONLINE NOW @

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Iron Bridge Studios | Lower North Street | Exeter | EX4 3EU | Tel: 0844 371 5637 | Email: Ironbridge@crm-limited.co.uk

EXETER STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

IN TERMS OF RENT EXETER IS CERTAINLY NOT THE CHEAPEST OF CITIES FOR STUDENTS. IT RANKS AS THE THIRD MOST EXPENSIVE PLACE TO FIND ACCOMMODATION IN THE UK, WITH ONLY LONDON AND GUILDFORD PROVING PRICIER. THE AVERAGE WEEKLY RENT IS £93.42, A WHOPPING £24 ABOVE THE NATIONAL AVERAGE FOR STUDENTS! However, student satisfaction in Exeter is consistently high and played a key role in the University being named Sunday Times University of the Year for 2012. AFS students also provide positive feedback on the city, with a healthy satisfaction score of 62% in our recent survey. Exeter scores particularly highly in the community category, which suggests that Exeter is simply a pleasant place to live compared to some student towns. By way of comparison, students in Bristol are not as satisfied as Exeter students, and local rival Plymouth comes in several places behind in the table of overall satisfaction.

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50 | Exeter

Student feedback also reveals the range of choice available in Exeter when it comes to choosing a place to live. Many different areas of the city are dotted with student houses and flats, which leads to a healthy competition in the market and drives up quality. Unlike the majority of University towns and cities in the AFS survey, there is

only a marginal fluctuation in price between the different areas surveyed.

As a result, it is possible to find decent quality housing in an area that suits you best without deviating from Exeter’s average rent. Therefore, if you want to take advantage of the high levels of student satisfaction the city centre accommodation offers, you will find the rent to be slightly below the student average for the city.

AFS TOP TIP Exeter is well served by a wide range of private halls of residence.

CRM students operate two welllocated halls, Iron Bridge Studios and the brand new Printworks.

Iron Bridge Studios offers flexible accommodation and includes an outside seating area. Western Challenge work in partnership with Exeter University and currently has four halls, while the highly regarded Opal 1 is located close by the University and renowned for its excellent social space.

GLASGOW CITY GUIDE

BY BECKY GILLARD

SO YOU’RE GOING TO STUDY IN GLASGOW...

THE BIG, BAD LAND OF HAGGIS, IRN BRU AND SQUARE SAUSAGES. BEFORE MOVING HERE I WAS ABSOLUTELY TERRIFIED; COME ON – ROSS KEMP DOESN’T DO PROGRAMMES JUST ANYWHERE, BUT I’VE BEEN PLEASANTLY SURPRISED is great for shopping.

THE CHEESEY GLASGOW IS AN Glasgow Loan day – get yourselves down SIGHTSEEING BUS to Argyle Street/Buchanan street AMAZING CITY Don’t get me wrong, this is and spend the day wandering slightly cringeworthy and the quirky cobbled streets and WITH SO MANY touristy but it is without undoubtedly spending! Braehead a doubt the best way to see centre is a quick bus ride THINGS TO DO, IT’S shopping Glasgow whilst learning about the away and there are some quirky, beautiful city you’re studying in. vintage shops in the West UNDOUBTEDLY THE cool You can hop on and off where you End! see the sights and have a PERFECT CITY TO BE Glasgow also boasts an impressive want, laugh with your mates about how live music scene, check out what’s embarrassing the whole situation A STUDENT IN. going on for yourselves at this is! You can get a student ticket useful link: www.ents24.com/web/ whatson/music/Glasgow.html Now, on to the real stuff. There’s no point coming to study in Glasgow unless you actually get out and see Glasgow. Some ‘must-dos’:

52 | Glasgow

online for £8, so grab your pals and hop on board!

Naturally, some days your bank account will be looking pretty sad, but there are still so many ways to actually enjoy the lovely sights of Glasgow without spending a penny!

KELVINGROVE ART GALLERY & MUSEUM

BOTANIC GARDENS & KIBBLE PALACE

The good thing about Kelvingrove is that you can make a whole day out of it, all on a budget. The Gallery & Museum is full of different art work, without an entry fee!

A bit of culture for no pennies – perrrfect. There’s also a museum tour guide app you can download for your phone which is pretty cool!

You’ll also find Kelvingrove Park in Kelvingrove (funny, that). It’s a lovely park, so make your trip on a nice day and take a picnic!

Located in Glasgow’s West End, this is another pretty park with lots of surrounding places to grab a drink or a bite to eat. The West End is amazing – you must go! It’s especially good when the weather is nice – really relaxing if you perhaps wanted to do some revision in the sun! A great place to hang out with some friends.

Glasgow is also a host to some impressive museums all over the city! In particular, I’d recommend the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel (loads of cool exhibitions). You can have a cheeky glance at a wee list of art galleries and museums on this site and explore one that tickles your fancy! www.glasgowlife.org.uk

54 | Glasgow

The joyous day that student loan makes its way into your bank account is as eagerly anticipated as Christmas; why not enjoy splashing your cash at some of these awesome restaurants?

TGI FRIDAYS TGIs is the perfect place to go with a group of friends when you have some money. It’s an American diner so there’s a huge variety of food, a great atmosphere and lots of yummy cocktails!

HUMMINGBIRD Hummingbird is an indie, cool bar/club/restaurant. The food is amazing and there’s loads of different cocktails and drinks available and it’s a really nice place for a casual night.

All burgers are 2-4-1 on Sunday till Thursday and even for a few hours on Friday so you could technically even do Hummingbird on a budget!

PRINCESS SQUARE Princess Square is beautiful.

Sophisticated and chic, there are a number of bars and restaurants for you to explore in a lovely location.

Find all of the restaurants-bars on www.princessquare.co.uk As students, what you really want to know is what can you do for little money in the evenings that preferably involves alcohol, right?

WHERE’S IT AT?

T H E B E ST ST U D E N T NIGHTS IN GLASGOW

MONDAY:

TUESDAY:

Kings Inch Road, G51 4BN

-2-

KELVINGROVE ART GALLERY -3-

THE RIVERSIDE MUSEUM OF TRANSPORT & TRAVEL

Juicy Tuesday @ Ku

shion

WEDNESDAY:

THURSDAY:

BRAEHEAD SHOPPING CENTRE

Argyle Street, G3 8AG

Viper

Octopussy @ The

-1-

100 Pointhouse Road, G3 8RS

Arches

Jellybaby @ O2 AB C, Mansion @ Bamboo, Comm on

FRIDAY:

-4-

BOTANIC GARDENS 730 Great Western Road, G12 0UE

-5-

Famous Friday @ Kushion, Propaganda @ O 2 ABC

HUMMINGBIRD 186 Bath Street, G2 4HG

-6-

TGI FRIDAY PUB QUIZ Nothing brings students together like a spot of general knowledge over a few bevvies. Pub Quiz – you can do it on virtually no money, just gather your mates and spend as much (or as little) as you like whilst having a guaranteed good laugh!

Use this site to find all of the pub quizzes in the Glasgow www.pubquizzy.com Why not do a pub quiz tour?

STAND-UP COMEDY GIGS Everyone likes laughing.

Stand-up comedy gigs are perhaps a different night out from the usual, but it’s a great way to spot new talent, catch up with some friends and see different parts of Glasgow.

The two main comedy clubs in Glasgow are Jongleurs and The Stand. I’d recommend The Stand because a) It’s in the West End of Glasgow, which, as previously mentioned is pretty special, and b) on a Tuesday you can get in for £2.

It’s true; technology is taking over the world. Here’s a list of some useful apps on your phone which will help you survive as a student in Glasgow; Groupon: Sign up and watch the deals roll in!

Foursquare: See where other people are recommending!

Just Eat: A multitude of different foods delivered straight to your door (for the lazy among us).

In a nutshell: University life is what you make of it. My best advice is to be friendly, join a society (a great way to meet people and expand a particular interest), always say yes to an opportunity, always ask if you can get student discount and most importantly: have a good time!

So there you have it, a fool proof, student-friendly guide to Glasgow.

Use this as your bible and there is no way you won’t have an amazing few years here. Enjoy!

113 Buchanan Street, G1 3HF

-7-

THE STAND COMEDY CLUB 333 Woodlands Road, G3 6NG

-8-

JONGLEURS 20 Glassford Street, Glasgow G1 1UL

-9-

VIPER 500 Great Western Road, G12 8EN

- 10 -

KUSHION 158 Bath Street, G2 4TB

- 11 -

THE ARCHES 235 Argyle Street, G2 8DL

- 12 -

O2 ABC 300 Sauchiehall Street, G2 3JA

- 13 -

COMMON 25 Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow G1 3AJ

Glasgow | 55

GLASGOW STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

GLASGOW IS A BRILLIANT, MODERN CITY, PERFECT FOR STUDENTS! THE ACCOMMODATION FOR STUDENTS IS RELATIVELY CHEAP AND LOCATED IN AND AROUND THE AFS TOP TIP CITY-CENTRE AND UNIVERSITIES. AFS website users voted Glasgow an impressive 4th out of the 172 Universities assessed in the UK, with an overall score of 62%. Glasgow scored highly for the quality of transportation links.

In our 2012 survey on average rents across the UK, the results showed the national average room rental rate to be £68.70.

The average rent in Glasgow for 2012 is £71.16, which is close to the national average. Considering that Glasgow is a large city and the Universities are located within the city-centre, this is still a good price! Glasgow also proved to be cheaper than cities like Bristol, Portsmouth and Leeds.

VOTED

H T 4 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S

A known student area of Glasgow is Maryhill, but the average rent is £76 and satisfaction levels are only 50%. Areas which have received good ratings for student satisfaction include Merchant City (73%) and Hillhead (74%).

Merchant City, with an average rent of £75 is quite expensive, and Hillhead, with an average rent of £79 is also pricey! Glasgow city -centre, however, has an average

rent of £75, like Merchant City, but a much higher satisfaction level of 78%.

Dennistoun, though perhaps not a first choice for students, received a solid satisfaction rate of 60% and boasts an attractive average rent of just £65, which is cheaper than the national average! Dennistoun is a good location, 10 minutes away from the city-centre by public transport, or a 20-minute walk.

PRIVATE HALLS Private halls are another good place to look for accommodation and Glasgow has two particularly good ones. Unite has a variety of accommodations (studio flats, en suite, shared flats) in many different locations across the city-centre, many of which include wifi internet and all utilities included. Victoria Hall is an award-winning, modern private hall which is not only perfectly located in the city-centre, but also has everything you could possibly need, including an on-site laundrette!

Glasgow | 56

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BUCHANAN VIEW

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bars are Vox and Zephyr, which are cool places to hang out without being too pretentious. Both have a welcoming atmosphere and an amazing range of beers.

HUDDERSFIELD CITY GUIDE RUVIMBO GOMBEDZA BY

MY NAME IS RUVIMBO GOMBEDZA AND I AM IN MY FINAL YEAR STUDYING BSC A CRIMINOLOGY. EATING AND NIGHTS OUT My three favourite clubs in Huddersfield are Tokyo, Camel Club, and Revolution.

Tokyo is a must on a Wednesday night out, with discounted student entry, four clubs in one and a 4 a.m. close, although getting into lectures on a Thursday can be a struggle. Camel Club pretty much offers something for everyone and has great student offers, even on a Saturday.

My favourite, though, is Revolution, which is an awesome place to party on a Friday night.

Drinks-wise you are spoiled for choice, my two personal favourite

58 | Huddersfield

Huddersfield is full of brilliant places to eat. The first place to stop at for a quick snack or just to escape from the busy University life is Zetland. Situated just across the Uni campus, Zetland is the ideal student hangout. The restaurant/ pub has recently opened, offers amazing discounts and, best of all, it is only 5 minutes away from the Uni campus Another must-go place to eat in Huddersfield is Cotton Factory, which offers great food in relaxed surroundings. It fits the student budget too, particularly if you have a uloveitcard.

Not that original, but definitely good value is Yates’s, which is known for its regular 2 for 1 offers.

However, if you are looking for something a little different, try the Blue Rooms in Byram Arcade. It is a cafe’ and dining room that serves great food under the atmospheric Victorian Arcade.

Finally, the Bakehouse has to be the best place for a takeaway lunch in town. It’s a little bit off the beaten track, but for a mouthwatering and totally homemade lunch it cannot be beaten and is great value for money.

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

BYRAM ARCADE Westgate, HD1 1ND

-2-

ENTERTAINMENT & SPORT If you are looking for something slightly different to the normal student entertainment, try the wonderful Lawrence Batley Theatre. It is a vibrant place which has a diverse range of performances and students can get decent discounts on entry.

If you fancy something a bit more mainstream, you can always go and watch the latest blockbuster at Huddersfield Odeon Cinema just a few minutes from the University. Odeon offer pretty hefty student discounts so you can save money and watch your favourite movie.

Just a few minutes from the cinema is the Huddersfield Town football stadium. If you are a football fan you can go and watch a match for a decent price and spend some time off from stressful uni assignments. Huddersfield is also the town of rugby and has both a League and Union team.

Personally, I would rather spend my time shopping than watching sport! I would normally head down to Kingsgate shopping mall or wander around Byram Arcade.

HIDDEN GEMS I think Huddersfield is full of wonderful places for everyone to explore but there are a couple of places, just off the track normally beaten by students. Byram Arcade is a place that you definitely need to visit. It is the town’s oldest Victorian Arcade and it is quite mesmerizing.

The ground floor contains a great café (see above) as well as many other fascinating stores. Calder

Graphics, in particular, is a favourite with art students, offering quality art, graphics, crafts and model materials with student discounts.

The first floor is also an independent retail heaven, with great shops like Dais Boutique, iPrint Apparel and Spun. Best of all though, it is home to Huddersfield’s best vintage shop - Part II - Vintage.

Part II is a mixture of old meets new in that there are vintage products and also restyled vintage clothes and accessories that go well with the latest trends. The boutique is stocked with unique and original products that you won’t find elsewhere and are accessible to a student budget.

For a slice of local life, check out the town’s open market. The market is sheltered beneath a Victorian cast iron glass roof canopy, is open four days a week and is generally buzzing with locals looking for bargains. Why not join in and save yourself a fortune on groceries?

MY FAVOURITE THING Huddersfield is a compact and student-friendly place and surprisingly pleasing on the eye. I also love to walk up Castle Hill, to get a bit of peace and quiet and get a great view over the city. Finally, Huddersfield is very easy on the student wallet, with low-cost student accommodation and lots of great deals to be had.

WORST THING Its such a student-friendly place it is hard to pick out anything, but the winters do tend to be very cold and wet, so an umbrella and a positive outlook are a must!

CAMEL CLUB Byram Street, HD1 1BS

-3-

COTTON FACTORY 50 King Street, HD1 2QT

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HUDDERSFIELD OPEN MARKET Brook Street, HD1 1RY

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KINGSGATE SHOPPING CENTER King Street, HD1 2QB

-6-

LAWRENCE BATLEY THEATRE Queen Street, HD1 2SP

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PARISH 28 Kirkgate, HD1 1QQ

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ODEON CINEMA Galpharm Stadium, HD1 6PG

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REVOLUTION 28 Cross Church Street, HD1 2PT

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TOKYO The Old Courthouse, HD1 2SP

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VERVE 3 Byram Street, HD1 1BX

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YATES’S 40-44 King Street, HD1 2QT

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ZEPHYR 61-63 King Street, HD1 2PZ

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ZETLAND Huddersfield, HD1 2RD

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BAKEHOUSE 8 Imperial Arcade, HD1 2BR

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VOX

10 Woodstreet, HD1 1BT

Page Title | 59

HUDDERSFIELD STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

STUDENTS WHO USE THE AFS WEBSITE WERE REASONABLY SATISFIED WITH HUDDERSFIELD AND GAVE IT A RESPECTABLE SCORE OF 56%.

OTHER UNIVERSITY TOWNS WITH A SIMILAR AFS TOP TIP SCORE INCLUDE WINCHESTER AND NORTHAMPTON. STUDENTS SCORED HUDDERSFIELD RELATIVELY HIGHLY FOR SHOPS, FACILITIES AND GOING OUT. Although the University of Huddersfield is continuing to expand, with a new sports centre due to be built by 2014, the room rental prices are still fair. For instance, this year’s average room rental is just £64.50, making it over £4 lower than the average UK student rental.

In Huddersfield, the majority of students live in areas such as Kirkburton, Almondbury and Aspley. In our survey, the first two areas performed averagely with Kirkburton scoring only 48% on student satisfaction and Almondbury 58%. Students tended to be much happier with Aspley (68%).

The central area of Huddersfield scored highly among many students with a satisfaction score of 70%. However, the natural advantages of living in the centre are offset by the higher rents.

VOTED

H T 8 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S

Other great areas that some students are not always familiar with include Newsome and Marsh.

Both areas have nearby shops, facilities as well as readily available transport. Although Newsome scored only 48% on student satisfaction, it is improving and the average rent is just £63.

Marsh, on the other hand, scored 64% on student satisfaction and it is considered to be a safe and community-oriented area by many students. On top of this the average rent price is a reasonable £70.

PRIVATE HALLS Huddersfield has numerous private halls of residence designed for every student need, such as Unite Students. Unite students’ halls are in the form of Snow Island and Firth Point. Unite halls offer a variety of attractive benefits including, onsite laundry, car park, bike storage and Wi-Fi. Both are in brilliant locations; Snow Island is situated on Kings Mill Lane just 2 minutes’ walk to University and Firth Point is equally close to the University.

Huddersfield | 60

YOU’LL

WAKING UP

S U P M A C O T CLOSE WE OFFER A GREAT CHOICE OF STUDENT ACCOMMODATION IN FANTASTIC LOCATIONS ACROSS HUDDERSFIELD

SNOW ISLAND

FIRTH POINT

BOOK TODAY unite-students.com 0800 121 7371 facebook.com/unitestudentaccommodation

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LEEDS CITY GUIDE

THE BOTTOM OF LEEDS CITYCENTRE IS UNDENIABLY THE BEST FOR NIGHTS OUT.

BY MARIE QUINNEY

I AM MARIE QUINNEY, I AM IN MY FOURTH AND FINAL YEAR OF A GEOGRAPHY AND SPANISH DEGREE AND I HAVE JUST FINISHED A THIRD YEAR ABROAD IN COLOMBIA AND SPAIN. I ENJOY FINDING STUDENT sell anything from books to coats BEST THINGS to cutlery. There are also great BARGAINS Hands down my favourite vintage shops such as Best Vintage thing about Leeds is its and Blue Rinse on Call Lane, which IN THIS AMAZING student-friendly layout. is a favourite among students for Almost everything is accessible its one-off dresses and shoes, as CITY AND AM AN by foot and bus fares have well as amazing accessories. recently been negotiated down ACTIVE MEMBER OF by the Students’ Union. Hyde Park BEST PLACES TO EAT definitely the hub of student When the Eddy B library gets LEEDS UNIVERSITY isactivity and is absolutely beautiful too much and you just need in sun and snow when people a break, head to Bakery 164 UNION CHARITY flock there for BBQs or to have to grab one of their many exotic mass snow-ball fights. Unlike other salads and sandwiches. They AND DANCE cities, Leeds never feels like a huge are fresh and excellent value for grey city and even the centre money, far better than the Union SOCIETIES. is impressive with the stunning shops. The light bites at the Terrace Victoria Quarter shopping area and historic buildings. Leeds University Union is also an asset to the city and student life.

SHOPPING & BARGAINS There are some great bargains to be ‘rooted out’ in Leeds. Make sure you regularly pass by the front of the Parky steps and the Union since there are weekly giveaways and voucher offers from shops and student-friendly companies.

There are some amazing charity shops on New Market Street which

62 | Leeds

in the Union are a good option for eating on-campus.

For dining out, my favourite place in town has to be Little Tokyo tucked away next to Hifi. It is a beautiful setting with fairy lights, carp-filled ponds under a bridge taking you to in-floor seating booths which offer an authentic Japanese experience. Jino’s in Headingley serves incredible and affordable Thai food and is a BYOB - the only one I have come across in my time at Leeds.

GREAT NIGHTS OUT HEADINGLEY/HYDE PARK If you’re looking for a more upmarket, less ‘studenty’ night out in the student areas then Arc in Headingley will be right up your street. Although it is part of the infamous Otley Run, most of the time it’s full of normally dressed people just wanting to relax and drink cocktails. Taking you more towards Hyde Park is the Box, a cute little sports bar with pool tables which does great pitcher and bucket offers to help you reminisce about your year abroad travels. Next stop and tucked away behind Leeds University is the Faversham. This is quite a legendary place for us students as it hosts an array of excellent club nights and garden parties.

TOP OF TOWN Now, I wouldn’t blame you for wanting to completely avoid the top of Leeds city-centre on certain nights with the crowds stumbling in and out of Yates’s and Oceana.

However, there are some hidden gems for you to enjoy. Stop off at Dry Dock, the bizarre bar-in-a-

boat next to Leeds Met Union, for a unique (and cheap) drinking experience. Next, visit Millennium Square which is a must for a special occasion. Although there are fewer student offers, you can mix with the professionals of Leeds in one of the many cocktail bars in the Electric Press on this beautiful square. A favourite of mine just down from Millennium Square is the Nation of Shopkeepers which is an artsy indie pub that projects interesting film montages on to its heavily decorated walls. From there head to the O2 Academy for their student night on Wednesday or for one of many gigs held there year-round.

BOTTOM OF TOWN The bottom of Leeds city-centre is undeniably the best for nights out. Mook do 2-4-1 cocktails on a Wednesday which can get very messy. From Mook, you can either head to classic bars such as Jake’s or Bar Room Bar along Call Lane to avoid entry fees to clubs but still dance the night away, or go across the road to Hifi. Hifi is a small club but it has a lot of soul and

character. A good student night is on Thursdays at Wire. I love the underground brick passageways that make up this club for this Indie night. There are many conveniently placed take-away options along this street for post-club munchies too.

GETTING HOME If you happen to be stranded and don’t have the money to pay for a taxi, fear not. Amber cars will drive you home and you leave your student ID card with the driver. A couple of days later you pick it up at your union (either Carnegie or LUU) and pay for the fare there.

Another option is the Leeds University Night Bus, which takes you from the front of the Union to your doorstep for just £1.

Leeds | 63

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

TIME FILLERS IN LEEDS It’s so easy to get wrapped up in your student bubble of Hyde Park and University campus and forget that you’re living in this amazing city which has a lot more to offer than bad weather and early morning lectures. Leeds is packed full of cultural events and activities so fill up your spare time. Millennium Square often has events, whether it’s the amazing German market at Christmas or the big screens showing sport in summer. Also on the square sits Leeds City Museum which is free and has several sections including historic information of the local area and animal exhibits. Another great museum is the Royal Armouries at Clarence Dock which displays 8500 pieces from wars and hunting throughout the ages.

Other attractions include the Corn Exchange and market by Call Lane which have both been threatened with closure, so support the local area and include them on your shopping sprees.

- 10 -

ARC

WIRE

19 Ash Road, Headingley, LS6 3JJ (0113 275 2223)

2-8 Call Lane Leeds LS1 6DN (0113 234 0980)

-2-

- 11 -

THE BOX

BAKERY 164

8 Otley Road, LS6 2AD (0113 224 9266)

164 Woodhouse Lane, LS2 9HB (0113 245 8641)

-3-

- 12 -

THE FAVERSHAM

LITTLE TOKYO

1-5 Springfield Mount, LS2 9NG (0113 243 1481)

24 Central Road, LS1 6DE (0113 243 9090)

-4-

- 13 -

DRY DOCK

JINO’S

(opposite Leeds Met) Woodhouse Lane, LS2 3AX (0113 3912658)

46 Otley Road, LS6 2AL (0113 278 8088)

-5-

- 14 -

NATION OF SHOPKEEPERS

BEST VINTAGE

27-37 Cookridge Street, LS2 3AG (0113 203 1831)

22 New Market Street, LS1 6DG (0113 245 5101)

-6-

- 15 -

O2 ACADEMY

BLUE RINSE

55 Cookridge Street, LS2 3AW (0113 389 1555)

9-11 Call Lane, LS1 7DH (0113 245 1735)

-7-

- 16 -

MOOK

AMBER CARS

Hirst’s Yard, LS1 6NJ (0113 245 9967)

Athlone Street, Armley, LS12 1UB (0113 263 6445)

-8-

- 17 -

JAKE’S BAR

LUU NIGHT BUS

27-33 Call Lane, LS1 7BT (0113 243 1110)

LUU Helpdesk on 0113 3801 400 or luuhelpdesk@leeds.ac.uk

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- 18 -

HIFI

LEEDS CITY MUSEUM

2 Central Road, LS1 6DE (0113 242 7353)

Millennium Square (0113 224 3732)

Leeds | 64

LEEDS STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

STUDENTS ON THE AFS WEBSITE RANKED LEEDS JOINT 5TH IN THE UK FOR THE CITY THEY WOULD LIKE TO LIVE IN, WITH A SCORE OF 60%.

LEEDS SCORED ESPECIALLY HIGHLY FOR GOING OUT AND TRANSPORT LINKS.

Leeds is home to three universities and has one of the largest student populations in the UK with over 250,000 students. It offers some of the lowest student rental prices in England with an average of £76 in Hyde Park, £74 in Headingley and £63 in Woodhouse. However, with average minimum rent starting at £22 per week it is clear that there is a huge variety of prices to suit everyone’s budget.

Many areas in the city with high student populations actually receive fairly average feedback, apart from Headingley which received a 68% positive rating.

The areas which outperformed the typical student areas in Leeds include the city-centre (78%) and the area around Leeds University (70%). The city-centre has average rental prices of £80 and University area has an average of £79. It is worth knowing that the area between the Business School and Burley Road which is right by the University and very close to the city centre boasts rental prices as low as £55.

VOTED

H T 5 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S

AFS TOP TIP Areas like Far Headingley and Lawnswood receive excellent feedback from students at 70% and 76% respectively. Although not the main student areas, they are both relatively close to Leeds Metropolitan campus and numerous sporting facilities in Headingley. Both rate very highly for ‘community’ since Headingley has its own centre away from the hustle and bustle of Leeds, and with average rental prices £60, it is clear why these areas are preferred by some.

PRIVATE HALLS Leeds offers an array of private student halls from student favourites Opal and Unite. Opal has 3 halls in Leeds, which offer en suite rooms and include a free private gym. Opal 1&2 are situated on Burley Road behind Leeds University and right next to the city-centre and Opal 3 is situated behind the Merrion Centre. Unite has four halls, all in the central LS2/3 areas. Concept Place and the Tannery are located right behind Leeds University campus, Joseph Stones House is by the coach station and Sky Plaza, which includes an on-site gym and shop, is a 5-minute walk to Leeds University.

Leeds | 66

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SKY PLAZA

CONCEPT PLACE

BOOK TODAY unite-students.com 0800 121 7371 facebook.com/unitestudentaccommodation

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THE ULTIMATE DOS YOU KNOW THE FEELING; JUST SCORED A AND DON’TS OF YOU’VE BRAND NEW ROOM AND WAIT TO STAMP IT DECORATING CAN’T WITH YOUR PERSONAL A RENTED ROOM STYLE. YET GETTING CARRIED AWAY WITH DECOR IS THE FASTEST WAY TO LOSE A DEPOSIT. FROM EMBARRASSING CARPETS TO STANDARD WHITE WALLS AND HIDEOUS LIGHT FIXTURES; HERE’S HOW TO REVAMP THE CLASSIC RENTING PITFALLS, THE SAFE WAY. DOs

DON’Ts

• Check if you are allowed to colour your walls, before you go anywhere near a paintbrush. If the answer is no, use vivid accessories instead. Buying or painting bright chairs or bedside tables can really change the feel of a room.

• Hammer things into the walls; you don’t want to cause unnecessary damage. For extra storage you can get hooks that hang off the back of doors. Or to decorate the walls without leaving a mark, hang pictures using self-adhesive strips.

• Invest in a nice rug. One of the most common complaints amongst tenants is: “What do I do with the ugly carpet?” Answer is: cover it up! By layering rugs over the floor it won’t look so bad.

• Go crazy! If you love to decorate, you’ll naturally want to do and buy everything you can. Yet spending money on fancy wallpaper (you can’t take with you) or furniture that only fits that room is a waste. Invest only in freestanding items you know would look great anywhere!

• Create character with your bedding. Loud bedding will add some spice to the dullest of rooms, while layering you mattress with knitted throws and an array of cushions is one of the fastest ways to make a space feel homely.

• Think about lighting. As a rule of thumb, lighting in rented flats is generally terrible. If you can, change the shade. If not, buy a few lamps and just use them instead.

68 | Dos & Don’ts of Decorating

• Don’t go disposing of things you don’t like. Be clever instead; it’s the oldest trick in the interior stylist’s book that if you don’t like something, you draw attention to something else. Hate the blinds? String up some pretty curtains. Can’t stand the crusty old ceiling?

Draw attention to the floors.

MYH Pendant Lamp £129.00 www.thelollipopshoppe.co.uk

Tripod glass side table lime £49.00 Dwell

Abacus - British art print £24.50 Pretty Dandy

Pantone Colour Chairs £54.00 The Holding Company

John Lewis Spectrum DAB/ FM Radio £29.95 John Lewis

Other great stores for quality student furniture are:

• Tesco

• Graham and Green

• Outline Editions

• IKEA

• The Orchard Home & Gifts

• Surface View

• H&M

• Scion

Dos & Don’ts of Decorating | 69

5SMALL-SPACE WAYSSYNDROME TO AVOID STUCK WITH A BOX ROOM? IT’S TIME TO BREAK FREE! HERE’S HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SENSE OF SPACE.

Venetian Mirror £199.99 Dwell

Some may want to live the student stereotype dream of having say crusty baked bean plates under the bed and your semester’s reading list doubling-up as a bedside table; but it’s a fact that you’ll feel clearer, lighter and brighter if the room you’re living in is too. Here’s how to make the most of the space you’ve got.

1. GET ORGANIZED Clutter crowds a room. Look for unused space that can doubleup as storage; under the bed, on top of cupboards. Don’t stuff any old thing up there - invest in some cheap storage boxes and make things easy to find. If you want a super-airy feel, leave some shelves on display minimal or empty.

2. ZONE OUT

Clear Your Head £40.00 www.outline-editions.co.uk

Chances are you’ll be working, then relaxing, or getting dressed for a big night out all within a limited amount space. Make every bit of the room count by settingup zones. It may be as simple as having a mirror at one end of the room, your desk at the other.

70 | 5 Ways to Avoid Small-Space Syndrome

3. USE AN OPTICAL ILLUSION For centuries people have been using mirrors to make spaces look bigger - a wall of cheap mismatching frames is a cute way to give the appearance of having more space. If you’ve been given the go-ahead to paint the wall, use light colours on the walls (note: dark colours do the opposite and absorb light, making a room look smaller).

4. CREATE A FOCAL POINT Accentuate the positive - find something you love to hang on the wall that lifts your eyes up! Often larger pieces work well in small rooms as it gives the impression you have more space than you do.

If in doubt, scale up!

5. KEEP IT SIMPLE Nothing says cramped like an overstuffed room with heaps of different colours, patterns and frills and twills going on. Instead, try keeping to one or two colours, chose just one pattern you like and make it work in a unified scheme.

MAKE YOUR ROOM SHINE

BY SUZI BOYLE

HAVING STARTED OUT AT BRITISH VOGUE, INTERIOR STYLIST & BLOGGER SUZI BOYLE KNOWS A THING OR TWO ABOUT HOW TO MAKE A ROOM SHINE. FROM DODGY IKEA FLATPACK BUILDING TO EXPLORING YOUR PERSONAL STYLE; WE GET HER TO SHARE SOME OF HER TOP TIPS FOR STUDENTS. IF YOU ARE GOING TO REVAMP A ROOM WHERE DO YOU START?

WHAT IS THE MOST COST-EFFECTIVE WAY TO CHANGE A ROOM?

I used to excitedly pick a colour and go from there but actually it’s far more beneficial to think through the space first. Identify what you want from a room and go from there; ie. if it’s for chilling in, then choose colours and textures that make you feel calm. If you’ll be having people over all the time, use loud patterns that will hide a stain if someone spills something.

Lighting! This is another trick I wish I’d known. From B&Q to M&S, it’s easy to find expensive-looking lamps so cheap these days.

Scatter them around a room for a cosy glow but take time to find the right bulb. If you accidentally chose anything too bright and headachy, it will ruin the effect.

WHAT ONE THING DO YOU WISH YOU’D KNOWN ABOUT DECORATING WHEN YOU WERE A STUDENT? Never to freestyle build anything from Ikea! I assembled (in retrospect, a very random) wicker chair for my room in halls that almost killed anyone who sat on it! The instructions may not make sense, be boring, or sound weird, but follow them anyway. It is the only way.

scented candle, put pictures up that make you feel happy, get a plant pot. When you have a space you want to come home to, you will feel so much more balanced and content on a day-to-day level. www.suzi-boyle.com/blog

CAN YOUR ROOM REALLY AFFECT YOUR SENSE OF WELLBEING? Absolutely, the spaces we live in affect us on a far deeper level than you’d ever imagine. Sharing with people you don’t know, working hard, playing hard, being in a new part of town, is all so much fun but exhausting business.

Make your room a bit of a sanctuary. By that I mean keep it clean, invest in a throw that you love to snuggle under, light a

Make Your Room Shine | 71

LEICESTER CITY GUIDE HOPE WALKER I’M HOPE WALKER. I’M IN MY SECOND YEAR, STUDYING ENGLISH & AMERICAN STUDIES & I LIVE IN EVINGTON. BY

72 | Leicester

PERSONALLY, I FEEL THAT THE BEST HIDDEN GEMS IN LEICESTER HAVE TO BE THE ARRAY OF SMALL BOUTIQUES GREAT NIGHT We’re students. We live on a budget (ideally), so a good night out simply has to consist of the cheapest and most efficient way to get drunk (but not too drunk guys). A great night out for me, therefore, has to start with a ‘pre-drinks’ gathering at someone’s house (make sure that someone with a brilliant pre-drinks playlist is in attendance, after all the whole aim is to get psyched). After a substantial period of partying before partying more, I would then book group taxis to transport the party to town. There are many options of good clubs in Leicester, but my ideal night must involve Mosh nightclub (don’t judge the name, I swear it has something for everyone).

If, however, you are in the mood for a slightly less messy night (but perhaps slightly more expensive), forget pre-drinks and clubbing and head out to one of the many wonderful bars in town. My two

main choices of bars would either be Hakamou Island bar (renowned for its amazing cocktail selection) or Firebug (yes, it is as cool as the name implies).

These different paths to a great night always diverge onto the same path on the way home; a takeaway. My personal favourite (simply because it’s so satisfyingly low quality food) would have to be TJ’s, which is guaranteed to satisfy your post-night out kebab needs.

BEST PLACES TO EAT Now this is a category I will struggle to whittle down.

First of all, I should mention that the University of Leicester campus offers a great selection of places to buy food on a day-to-day basis. Delicious is a perfect shop for buying your lunch in between lectures and seminars, with its extremely high quality selection of freshly made food. They have a fresh sandwich bar, where you can watch them make your perfect

sandwich before your own eyes.

Also, for anyone looking for a place to have a casual lunch date, you can’t beat 1923, which is situated in the Students’ union. They sell the tastiest “triple cooked” chips that I have ever eaten, and I do not say this lightly.

There is also a plethora of places in the town centre that are perfect for both a sit down lunch as well as a sit down dinner. Highcross Dining Court, just off High Street, boasts a wide selection of restaurants, coffee shops and various eateries.

My favourite has to be the Handmade Burger Company, whose burgers are to die for. Other places of note would be Urban Pie, 1573 Bar & Grill (an old converted school house which has heaps of character) and Salvador Deli (which is conveniently situated on Queens Road, very near the university).

Leicester | 73

HIDDEN GEMS Personally, I feel that the best hidden gems in Leicester have to be the array of small boutiques, vintage shops and independent stores that are predominantly situated in The Lanes, which themselves are a pocket of streets and are like a world away from the city, at the heart of the city-centre. Two of my favourite boutiques would have to be Dolly Mix Vintage and a cute card and gift shop on Grey Friars.

You can find some really unique and beautiful pieces in these shops as well as being surrounded by cute cafés that are so warm and inviting, particularly in winter!

For those of you who aren't into shopping (the mind boggles), a place slightly further off the beaten track from the city-centre is Leicester's Botanical Gardens, which I can assure you are not just for those nature lovers who appreciate gardens. They are also a beautiful place to sit and have a picnic or just hang out and relax; I’ve even seen people taking their work there (it sure is more aesthetically pleasing than the library!).

BEST THINGS I would say one of the best parts of Leicester is the picturesque nature of New Walk, in all weathers, but most potently during warm sunny days.

It is a street canopied by trees and lined with beautiful buildings, one of which being Leicester museum,

an extremely grand piece of architecture. New Walk connects University Road with the city-centre; the beginning is littered with small, park like areas of grass which are perfect for basking in the sun or gathering with friends, and it ends with a selection of cafés and pubs.

One of the other highlights of the city is the presence of Leicester’s world renowned rugby union team, the Leicester Tigers. Their wonderful Welford Road Stadium is located right next to the University of Leicester, so it is extremely convenient for a fun day out with friends, and while everyone gets to enjoy good quality sport, us girls also have the pleasure of getting to watch world-class rugby players run around in short shorts… what more could you want?

WORST THINGS The worst part of the city would have to be University Road in autumn. There are so many trees lining this street that the floor becomes quite literally submerged in leaves. The walk along the street is bad enough to make in the mornings when you’re sleepy and late for a lecture, but when trudging through leaves this proves an even more difficult feat!

So come armed with shovels!

Also, Victoria Park, which is next to the university, is not particularly well lit at night so my advice is to not walk through there when it’s dark.

Safety First!

-3-

WHERE’S IT AT?

Millstone Lane, LE1 5JN

-1-

-4-

FIREBUG

MOSH NIGHT CLUB

DOLLY MIX VINTAGE

37 Saint Nicholas Place, LE1 4LD

176 Cank Street, LE1 5GX

-2-

-5-

HAKAMOU ISLAND BAR

LEICESTER BOTANICAL GARDENS

8 Bowling Green Street, LE1 6AT

Glebe Road, Leicester, LE2 2NE

Leicester | 74

M A E R D E H T E V LI MANSION STUDENT n io t a d o m m o c c a t n e tud s r ie m e r p ’s r e t s e ic e L

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LEICESTER STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

LEICESTER IS A CITY PACKED FULL OF DIVERSITY AND CULTURE AND IS SITUATED IN THE HEART OF THE COUNTRY; PERFECT FOR THE TYPICAL STUDENT. IT BOASTS A WIDE RANGE OF STUDENT ACCOMMODATION, SITUATED ALL OVER THE CITY, ALL WITHIN OPTIMAL RANGE OF THE CITY-CENTRE AND STUDENT HUB.

It is ranked, on the AFS website, alongside some of the major university cities such as London and York with a rating of 58%, well above average. This high satisfaction is no doubt influenced by the average rent of the student accommodation in the city which is £64; the average for the country being £68.70.

The most densely student populated areas are Clarendon and Evington, which are both situated walking distance from the city-centre and the University.

As one might expect, these areas scored high in regards to their sense of student community.

As both one of the highest scoring for satisfaction (66%) and one of the cheapest areas for rent, Clarendon, at an average rent of £58, would seem the most suitable area for student living. Given its extremely convenient location, practically on the doorstep of the University, this seems like a steal.

VOTED

H JOBIYNAFTS U6SETRS

AFS TOP TIP Do not immediately rule out areas further outside the centre of the city such as Oadby and Narborough, given that there are endless choices for transport and they have strong student communities of their own, not to mention such areas offer accommodation with an average rent of between £45 and £49.

PRIVATE HALLS Leicester also offers an excellent choice of private hall accommodation; one of note being that offered by Mansion Accommodation which is situated in the De Montfort University area of the city, offering shared accommodation. It is newly refurbished and offers the highest quality across the board, i.e. security and facilities.

Unite offers a variety of accommodation around the city, each situated in close proximity to the city-centre and both universities. Perhaps the most conveniently situated being St. Martins House on King Street, which is in the heart of the city and walking distance from each University.

Leicester | 76

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LIVERPOOL CITY GUIDE

BY ELIZA TURTOI

HI! I AM ELIZA, THIS IS MY SECOND YEAR IN THE UK AND ALSO AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL WHERE I STUDY POLITICS AND COMMUNICATION STUDIES, WHICH I ABSOLUTELY LOVE! I AM A REALLY BUSY BEE AS I LOVE TO GET INVOLVED IN SOCIETIES AND STUDENT-LED PROJECTS AS MUCH AS I CAN. WHAT I usually begin my night out by A NIGHT OUT going in Baa Bar on Fleet Street, With over 300 pubs and I LOVE THE MOST which is a must if you want to get clubs to choose from, your party started. The ÂŁ1 shooters is definitely the ABOUT LIVERPOOL place toLiverpool will guarantee you a night to be if you fancy a night out remember, this is if you're not the IS ITS DIVERSITY, ITS with your mates. type who finds out what they did night before from their tags Whether you are in the mood for AMAZING VINTAGE a pint in an old fashioned pub, the on Facebook. Then we head to Slaters, because who doesn't for a venue to watch your SHOPS AND THAT looking like some Quad Vods? Following favorite team play, after some Slaters, Walkabout is always the pre-drinks in a lively and noisy THERE IS ALWAYS atmosphere or are just ready place to go for a gig in a fun and entertaining atmosphere. dance like crazy till morning, SOMETHING NEW toLiverpool has it all. It is also one of If it's Wednesday you should the cheapest student cities in definitely not miss Medication, AND EXCITING the UK. especially if you are up for some fancy dressing, wild partying and For me, an ideal night out in HAPPENING cheap drinks. What else could you Liverpool is a combination of bar ask for? Medication is a MASSIVE for some great student AROUND THE CITY. crawling student night in Liverpool, with discounts and going to dance in a nightclub. The city-centre and especially Hardman Street, Seel Street and the Concert Square are packed with dozens of top clubs.

78 | Liverpool

three rooms playing everything from electro to chart and R&B.

PLACES TO EAT

located on the Albert Docks.

After a long night out, some of the most popular eat-in/take-away fast-food restaurants on Bold Street where you can ease your hunger are Mr. Chips and Lobster Pot. Sometimes full of weird and wonderful people, they serve the usual: chips, garlic mayo and cheese at competitive prices. The staff are really friendly and won’t judge you no matter how cheerful you are!

Liverpool is the home of some of the greatest museums and galleries in the UK and the best thing about it is that the majority of them are FREE! You can visit the 'Museum of Liverpool' which was recently built on Liverpool's waterfront at the Pier Head and which dedicates its exhibitions to the contributions that Liverpool has made to the world. My favourite is the Merseyside Maritime Museum, which includes the Titanic gallery, complete with items saved from the ship and press articles of the period.

Situated on Leece Street and offering an amazing views of the city from their glass roof terrace, Hannah’s is the place to go if you fancy a night out with your mates in a relaxed atmosphere accompanied by live entertainment. It serves a selection of amazing dishes that are guaranteed to suit everyone, from sharing platters at £8, pastas and salads to some of the best burgers you will ever eat. Not to mention that they offer you a choice of amazing desserts, my favorite being the chocolate hazelnut brownie with chocolate sauce; there is no such thing as ‘too much chocolate’.

PLACES TO VISIT Seen as 'Liverpool's other religion', football is represented here by two Premiership clubs: Liverpool FC and Everton. Even if football is not your biggest passion (I subscribe to that), I advise you to just give it a go and visit the famous Anfield Stadium. You can look around the museum and club shop as well as go on a tour of the stadium which takes place every 15 minutes; you may even have the chance to bump into one of the players.

Definitely on your list of top 10 places to visit in Liverpool should be the Cavern Club because Liverpool is all about Beatles. If you want to learn more about the lives and success of the four Beatles, you should visit the The Beatles Story which is a fantastic museum

80 | Liverpool

GETTING INVOLVED My biggest and most sincere advice for you is to make the most of your time at University. The Liverpool Guild of Students offers numerous opportunities for you to get involved, make an impact on the community and enhance your employability. Volunteering opportunities include: the 'Science in School' project which works to engage young people in Higher Education and science, the 'Food Cycle' which is a student-led food charity aiming to redirect the food that retailers throw away and cook meals for the local community, or the 'Re-Cycles' volunteer group which recycles old bikes turning them into a dreamy ride.

If you are looking to give a hand to an environment-friendly project 'Leave Liverpool Tidy' is the right place for you! The scheme aims to reduce the amount of reusable items that go to landfill during the student changeover while helping to improve the student-community relationship. The project offers you the chance to meet new people while helping create a more sustainable community. At the end you even get a certificate for your hard work which is absolutely great for your CV!

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

BAA BAR Found at 43-45 Fleet St, L14AR

-2-

SLATERS BAR Is at 24 Slater Street, L1 4BW

-3-

WALKABOUT Is located at 29 Fleet Street, L1 4AN

-4-

MEDICATION 6 Queen Square, L1 1RH

-5-

NANDO’S 6 Queen Square, L1 1RH

-6-

MR. CHIPS 43 Bold Street, L1 4EU

-7-

LOBSTER POT 19 Ranlagh Street, L1 1JW

-8-

HANNAH’S 2 Leece Street, L1 2TR

-9-

LIVERPOOL FC Located at Britannia Vaults L2 6RE

- 10 -

EVERTON FC Goodison Avenue L4 4EL

- 11 -

THE CAVERN CLUB 10 Mathew Street, L2 6RE

- 12 -

THE BEATLES STORY Britannia Vaults, L3 4AD

- 13 -

MUSEUM OF LIVERPOOL Pier head, L3 1DG

- 14 -

MERSEYSIDE MARITIME MUSEUM Albert Dock, L3 4AQ

LEE COURT @ PRESCOT STREET

GREAT LOCATION AND SUITABLE FOR INDIVIDUALS, GROUPS AND COUPLES If it’s location you’re looking for; look no further than Lee Court @ Prescot Street; the hub of student living. Choose from stylish studios or luxurious en-suites, each room offers a large bed and spacious areas for studying and relaxing.

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LIVERPOOL STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

USERS OF THE AFS WEBSITE RANKED LIVERPOOL JOINT 4TH IN THE UK, RECEIVING AN OVERALL SCORE OF 62% AND OUR STUDENTS PARTICULARLY APPRECIATED THE QUALITY OF THE AFS TOP TIP TRANSPORTATION LINKS BECAUSE WHETHER YOU ARE IN A RUSH TO GET IN TIME TO YOUR 9AM SEMINAR OR FANCY A NIGHT OUT WITH YOUR PRIVATE HALLS FRIENDS, THE BUSES THAT OPERATE IN MERSEYSIDE ARE VERY CHEAP AND FREQUENT. Although one of the biggest university cities in the UK, Liverpool has one of the cheapest average rentals of only £59.24 in 2012, almost £10 cheaper than the UK average student rent. Not surprisingly, in the AFS 2012 survey of average rents, Liverpool proved to be cheaper than most of the major university cities including Manchester, Birmingham and Sheffield.

The most populated student areas in Liverpool are Kensington and Greenbank. However, these areas scored averagely in terms of student satisfaction, only 50% and respectively 66%. The advantages of living in these areas are the highly affordable rent prices which start from around £50 per week and the great transportation links to the University and city-centre.

VOTED

H T 4 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S 82 | Liverpool

Areas where students are the most happy with their accommodation include the city-centre (74%) and particularly the University area (84%). The city-centre is slightly more expensive than the other student-friendly areas in Liverpool, having an average student rent of £80. The area close to the University is rather more affordable as it has significantly lower average rents (£60) and you will really appreciate having the university buildings so close to your home when you are running late for your lectures.

Smithdown Road scores a healthy 64% for student satisfaction and is a particularly attractive area to live in as it has really cheap weekly rents starting from only £35.

Smithdown Road is a fantastic place to live, with plenty of studentfriendly pubs and restaurants to choose from. Likewise, the area scored particularly higher in terms of transportation links as the buses that get you to the university campus or in town are every 4 minutes.

Liverpool can offer you a great range of high-quality private halls of residence, with the most popular being CRM Students, Cosmopolitan and Unite. CRM Students’ Lee Court located on Prescot Road is one of the newest and most stylish private halls in the city. Already offering 5 halls of residence ideally located in the heart of Liverpool and planning to open one more next year, Cosmopolitan remains a popular option. Finally, located in the most student-friendly areas in Liverpool, the Unite private halls of residence offer spacious rooms at competitive prices.

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LONDON CITY GUIDE

BY EMMA WRIGHT

I’M EMMA WRIGHT. I’M IN MY THIRD YEAR, STUDYING BA FASHION TEXTILES AT RAVENSBOURNE. I’VE LIVED IN LONDON FIVE YEARS. FAVOURITE SPOTS Currently, one of my favourite spots in London on a day out is Little Venice.

It is located in the West of London and is approximately a 12 mile walk parallel to the Thames. The scenic walk starts at Camden Lock, winds through Regents Park and London Zoo before ending up in a stunning secret hot spot full of low rising bridges and exclusive riverside cafes emitting the aura of the Italy river city, Venice.

In Soho, start at the top left corner, near Liberty, and amble through diagonally, aiming towards the bottom right corner, Leicester Square. Between these two points you’ll encounter eclectic cultural stimulation from a variety of bars,

84 | London

cafés, shops and people. You’ll find everything from health food shops through to pawnshops and the best cupcake bakers in the world.

If you haven’t already heard of The Hummingbird Bakery, make a note of it now.

Soho is designed on a very loose grid system, with most streets specialising in a particular trade.

For instance, Wardour Street is the main artery in Soho dedicated to evening entertainment. This is where you’ll find some of the best pubs; Waxy O’Connors being one of them. This is a beautifully designed pub set on four floors with a tree winding up the centre. Berwick Street is an arts area, with the most luxurious fabric shops and London’s best art suppliers, Cass Art.

BEST MUSEUM

BEST PUB

For me the best museum will always be the Victoria and Albert museum. This is quite a biased opinion as I’m an art student and the museum specialises in sculpture, metal work and world textiles. However, there is something here for everyone.

Special exhibitions are laid on annually, covering everything from famous architects’ work to fashion ballgowns. However, for me the best spot in the whole museum is the shop. This is possibly London’s best shop for historical fashion pieces from Aztec jewellery to vintage printed dresses.

My favourite “secret pub” is the The Captain Kid in Wapping, East London.

To find this pub you will have to venture on to the DLR from Canary Wharf going to Greenwich. Once exiting the station turn left and walk for approximately 5 minutes until you see the pub’s sign on your left.

This may not sound very ‘hidden away’, but it is not a very highly visited area of London. However, the location is just superb with all the buildings being converted from the warehouses and dockyards.

The pub is located right next to the river with an exclusive view over the most unlocked part of the Thames.

Next door is the Natural Science Museum. I would go just to see the stunning architecture, particularly in the grand hall where the dinosaur skeletons are. The main museum’s theme is teaching the history of the natural world.

Personally, I love the rock section!

For one it is nice and quiet, as everyone is fascinated by the dinosaurs; secondly, you get to see the most beautiful crystals, diamonds and stunning elements. Maybe it’s because I’m a fashion student that I’m drawn to pretty, sparkly, things, but don’t judge the rock section until you’ve seen it!

QUIRKIEST LUNCH SPOTS Take a packed lunch, either made yourself or (if you fancy a treat) from one of Highbury’s patisseries, and take a stroll through Hampstead Heath, until you find yourself walking up a slope to the top of Primrose Hill. The view of London is quite spectacular, particularly on bonfire night when a free annual display is held here every year.

Another good visit is the Greenwich Union; don’t mistake this for the Greenwich University Students’ Union! This is a little pub tucked away in the suburbs of Greenwich so you will need a map to locate it. This again is a great local hotspot carved out of the local historic architecture. My personal highlight of the pub is the food, local produce and top quality cooking!

If you find yourself in Central London, Soho way, take yourself to Dean Street to the French House. Here you will always find the most fantastically dressed barmen serving your drinks, with curling moustaches and dressed in traditional white aprons, serving only half pints in keeping with the traditional French drinking style.

WHERE’S IT AT -1-

LITTLE VENICE Regents Canal, Camden Lock, NW1

-2-

HUMMINGBIRD BAKERY 155a Wardour Street, Soho Square, W1F 8WG

ULTIMATE LONDON NIGHT OUT Now this is a tough decision. I think it is one that completely depends on what your tastes are and what part of London you prefer. For me, I love having a good meal out and Ottolenghi (Highbury/Islington) is a fab restaurant serving Persian and English fusion dishes. Usually I like to follow up a meal with a good cocktail bar and a cheeky dance.

However, to really get the best out of a night in London is to pick an area, whether that is Highbury/ Shoreditch/Soho/London Bridge etc … and really exploit the location’s offerings for a night out.

For instance, if you are up for a sophisticated cultural evening, then Covent Garden or the West End is the perfect starting place.

With several top quality shows every night as well as the Royal Opera, it is the perfect place to catch good food, entertainment and superb bars. However, if you are after something a little more late night then catch a dash of Jazz in Soho followed by a dance in a nightclub converted out of a cellar; Ronnie Scott’s jazz club is one to be tried out!

Shoreditch in East London is also a trendy night out hotspot. This place is littered with ‘quirky’ bars and clubs. To be honest the majority of them all look the same and are over-priced; however, there is one place in particular that stands out from all the rest. The Book Club is a multifunctional venue which is a cafe during the day, a cocktail bar in the evening and a dance club by night.

86 | London

HIDDEN GEMS St Martin-in-the-Fields, next to Leicester Square, is a beautiful church which is renowned for putting on concerts by local performers, mainly from music schools, and not all with a price! Every Friday lunch time, around 12 noon, there is a free concert, which is fantastic for taking a visit when breaking up your busy day. Another hidden extra to this church is its café.

Crafted out of its ancient crypt, you can see centuries of stone architecture whilst eating your sandwich and drinking your tea.

FAVOURITE SHOPPING DISTRICT Seven Dials is a location not often discussed when it comes to shopping and is situated above Covent Garden and just below Holborn. What is so great about this place I hear you say? Well one of the best aspects of the place is how it is designed. Seven roads meet in the centre to create a sundial effect of seven points. Within these seven streets there is a range of one-off boutiques and exclusive designer stores as well as more commercial stores. It is not just fashion, as there are book stores, gadgets and music accessories as well. The streets parallel to Seven Dials is a also a great hotspot for shopping with rows and rows of shops that are a little more off the beaten track compared to Oxford Street and the larger shopping malls.

-3-

WAXY O’CONNORS 14-16 Rupert Street, W1D 6DD

-4-

CASS ART 24 Berwick Street, W1F 8RD

-5-

VICTORIA & ALBERT MUSEUM Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL

-6-

SCIENCE MUSEUM Exhibition road, SW7 2DD

-7-

CAPTAIN KIDD PUB 108 Wapping High Street, E1W 2NE

-8-

THE GREENWICH UNION PUB 56 Royal Hill, SE10 8RT

-9-

THE FRENCH HOUSE PUB 49 Dean Street, W1D 5BE

- 10 -

RONNIE SCOTT’S JAZZ CLUB 47 Frith Street, W1D 4HT

- 11 -

THE BOOK CLUB 100-106 Leonard Street, EC2A 4RH

- 12 -

OTTOLENGHI Upper Street, N1 2TZ

- 13 -

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE Bow Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 9DD

- 14 -

ST MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS CHURCH Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, WC2N 4JJ

- 15 -

SEVEN DIALS SHOPPING AREA Covent Garden, WC2H 9HD

STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

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LONDON STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

LONDON IS ONE OF THE MOST FASCINATING CITIES WHERE ONE COULD CHOOSE TO LIVE WHILE STUDYING. IT IS MODERN, VIBRANT, COSMOPOLITAN, INNOVATIVE AND ALWAYS REINVENTING ITSELF IN ORDER TO KEEP UP WITH THE THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS LIVING THERE.

students. The average rent is higher than in any other UK city, getting up to £107.29 in 2012, significantly above the UK average of £68.70.

It is encouraging to note that, compared to 2011, the average rent in London has decreased slightly by £0.74, while Guilford, Cambridge and Oxford registered increases of up to £5.55 in one year.

VOTED

H T 6 T N I O J AFS USERS BY

88 | London

London is a diverse and resourceful city and was ranked joint 6th by users of the AFS website. Over 7000 students voted and gave an average score of 58%.

Even though it offers great advantages in terms of job opportunities, social events, Universities and much more, London is an expensive city for

Within the AFS survey, London’s highest score is for the transport links, which are indeed very efficient and accumulate 7 points on the scale of student satisfaction.

Transport is also awarded 10s from students already living in London, in areas like Angel and Islington, though the rent can go up to £135 per week there.

M A E R D E H T E V LI MANSION STUDENT n io t a d o m m o c c a t n e ud t s r ie m e r p ’s n o d n o L

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Hackney, Southwark and Bloomsbury seem to be very popular areas with high concentrations of students. The good news is that the rent is not significantly above the City average, so accommodation here is affordable and highly recommended by students, varying around £105-£110 per week.

The happiest students seem to be the ones living in Holborn, Angel, Brick Lane or Westminster, all areas scoring over 75% levels of satisfaction, although the average rent starts from £120 and gets as high as £165 per week. Still among the best areas in London, but significantly cheaper are Aldgate (£88), Ealing Broadway (£70) and Brixton Hill (£100), registering levels of 70%, 74% and 78% of student satisfaction.

90 | London

AFS TOP TIP

PRIVATE HALLS

One of the most popular student areas in London is Camden Town. It is ideal for meeting students from all over the world, as it has become a symbol of diversity and originality expressed through art, music and fashion.

Beautiful handmade jewels and drawings await students to spare a few pounds within the Camden markets. In the AFS survey, Camden Town scores on average 62% student satisfaction, while offering accommodation from £88 per week; great value for money and ideally positioned in North-West London.

When it comes to private halls, London’s most popular are operated by CRM, Nido and Mansion. CRM has three halls, The Curve, Fulham Palace Studios and Sydney Web House. Each offers great facilities within new and modern buildings, but also assures access to recreational places where students can relax after studying hard. Nido also has three halls in King’s Cross, Spitalfields and Notting Hill. Each offers welldesigned, secure and comfortable student accommodation. Finally, Mansion operates 7 halls across London, including Mansion Hive which is just around the corner from super cool Shoreditch, Mansion Lock in the key student area of Camden (which has a roof top terrace) and the brand new Mansion Hub in Vauxhall.

MANCHESTER CITY GUIDE ZINA PATEL BY

I’M ZINA, IN MY THIRD YEAR OF MY CLASSICS DEGREE AT MANCHESTER. COMING FROM LONDON, MANCHESTER HAS PROVED ITSELF TO BE THE PERFECT CITY FOR ME. AS A NON-CAMPUS UNI IT HAS THE VIBRANCY, RICH CULTURE AND BUSY LIFESTYLE THAT LONDON HAS A GREAT NIGHT OUT FALLOWFIELD: My idea of a Wilmslow Road is a lazy life saver TO OFFER, ON A great night out in Fallowfield (especially in the cold!). However, would include visiting a if it’s a more club-like night you are SMALLER SCALE. selection of its varied and buzzing after, the dark (but slightly damp) bars.

Having enjoyed a few pre maze of Red Rum is always a good I’VE FOUND MYSELF drinks at home, we’d probably shout! head down to Font – with only THOROUGHLY CAMPUS/TOWN: The range of three in the country, two of which clubs and bars on your way based in Manchester, Font ENJOYING EXPLORING are through Campus and town is an absolute must. Serving a can hardly be rivalled. Jabez number of cocktails ranging ALL IT HAS TO OFFER huge Clegg can offer you a cheap, between £2 - £4, you can enjoy crammed but brilliantly cheesy a little bit fancy even AND THREE YEARS something night. Factory’s three floors suit when you can’t scrape together all music tastes (and who can a fiver.

DOWN THE LINE I seriously turn down a penny in on Grabbing a drink at Trof and If it’s club anthems AM STILL FINDING perhaps enjoying their small but aandThursday?!). the opportunity to dress to very well-heated terrace never impress you’re after, Tiger Tiger or NEW AND EXCITING disappoints, nor does the modern Deansgate Locks are the places for and stylish interior and magically you. On the other hand, if it’s indie THINGS! lit beer garden at 256. The £1 music that tickles your fancy, try out shots of all flavours, colours and textures at Baa Bar’s guarantee the night collapsing into hilarity – the perfect time to move upstairs for an embarrassing boogie. The convenience of each of these bars within 2 minutes of each other on

92 | Manchester

5th Avenue, 42nd Street, Venue or South. If that small selection wasn’t enough, you are 100% assured a wonderfully cheesy night in the Gay Village.

NORTHERN QUARTER: For those of you who are looking to venture out of the high-profile student scene, the hip, trendy, edgy (perhaps slightly pretentious), Northern Quarter is right up your street.

If you’re willing to spend a little more than usual, the vibrancy and opulent décor of Lammars transports you into an extravagant and ornamented atmosphere.

The quaint Night & Day café is a lovely stop off for lunch or a warm drink and by night it bursts into a live music venue for intimate gigs. For all you big music fanatics wanting to enjoy unconventional club music, Matt & Phreds encompasses Jazz, Folk, Gypsy, Swing and plenty more genres. I could go on - it looks like every night’s a student night in Manchester!

BEST PLACES TO EAT The infamous Curry Mile (sadly not actually a mile long!) is the only place to be when you just need some stodgy food after a night out. Atlas Shawarma will produce the best kebab you’ve ever had and the likes of Falafel, Raja’s and Beirut are just a tiny selection of takeaways that will fulfil that satisfaction you’re after before crashing into bed. However, why not also try a sit down curry before a night out.

Restaurants such as Shahenshah and Haweli provide a lively tone amidst the energy of the mile, not to mention many more with student discounts and BYOB policies as an added bonus.

During a busy day at Uni, pressured deadlines or that dreaded exam period you’ll find a number of cafés stocked with sandwiches, drinks and snacks in various lecture buildings. If you’re brave enough to face the wind and rain, why not venture out to the veggie café next to the Library for hot, cold and nutritious food for all taste buds. A visit to the Cornerhouse, 94 | Manchester

which not only displays a delicious menu but also art exhibitions and small movie screens, is a must.

As far as all you can eat buffets go, Red Hot World Buffet will exceed any expectations; with cuisines from around the world and different menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Finally, the Northern Quarter has a fair few hidden gems; Oklahoma is a small place tucked away on the corner of High Street. Having enjoyed some shopping amongst its quirky bits and pieces, their menu and impressive décor is sure to delight.

Meanwhile, the Soup Kitchen on Spear Street provides hearty, healthy and homemade food in a cosy and rustic surrounding.

CULTURE If you find yourself with some free time, or simply can’t bear any more Uni work and want something leisurely yet stimulating, Manchester’s cultural scene is bustling and always changing. Whitworth Art Gallery is just as beautiful on the interior as the exterior, surrounded

by a beautiful park with free entry and located just a few minutes from Campus there seems to be no reason not to pop in and visit its watercolours, sculptures, wallpapers and textiles.

The Manchester Art Gallery often shares and develops the exhibitions on display at the Whitworth. If you fancy avoiding the gloomy atmosphere of pressured and stressed students at the University Library, try working for a few hours at John Rylands Library on Deansgate. Its soothing silence and architecture from the 1890s confirms it’s one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.

Finally, for a night out that doesn’t involve stumbling in at ridiculous hours and little memory, the theatres in Manchester are a great way of enjoying a relaxed evening. The Victorian Building of the Royal Exchange reveals huge marble pillars inside, suspended from which is a seven-sided glass structure where the shows are performed; providing varied angles means visiting this theatre is a unique experience.

M A E R D E H T E V LI MANSION STUDENT n io t a d o m m o c c a t n e r stud ie m e r p ’s r e t s e h c n a M

– we imple aim s a e v a h we dent n Student, y aspect of your stu At Mansio r e re to enjoy ev ans living somewhe r u o y t n a w me you . And that u to have experience oud of. We want yo n. pr e your ow e k b a n m a n c a u c o u y yo hill, ious space p, study, c e le s , e own luxur v li e you can Somewher ecover... socialise, r t of our eigh ? flat in one rn we do this e l d il o w m w h o !

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Page Title | 93

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

EXTRA GEMS A few extra things to make sure you get the most out of Manchester: • Luvyababes: A tacky, fun, cheap and crazy dress-up shop in the Arndale centre, essential for all those fresher dress-up events!

• The hairdresser located in her little salon down on the lower floor of the SU will cut your hair for a mere fiver without appointment! Another walk-in no appointment service for guys is at The Mensroom Barbershop on Palatine Rd in Withington, which is set up in a tiny converted portaloo.

• The stacks of vintage items in the Northern Quarter – especially at Afflecks Palace. This labyrinth of tattoo and piercing parlours and all sorts of wacky, chic, stylish and bizarre items and clothing will entice you for hours.

• The delectable teas, coffees and cakes at the Richmond Tea Rooms on Richmond Street engulfs you in their traditional English and enchanting interior, whilst the adjoining cocktail bar offers handmade cocktails amongst their quirky furniture and fixtures.

• The Christmas Market overtakes town for a couple of weeks towards the end of the year.

Walking through it you’ll find perfect gifts ranging from handmade knitwear to selections of olives to incense sets! You name it and you’ll find it walking amidst the softly lit, chilly and busy winding ways accompanied by festive music.

96 | Manchester

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FONT

LAMMARS

236-238 Wilmslow Road, M14 6LE & 7-9 New Wakefield Street, M1 5NP

China Lane, M12

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NIGHT & DAY CAFÉ

TROF 2A Landcross Road, M14 6NA & 6-8 Thomas Street, M4 1EU

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26 Oldham Street, M1 1JN

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MATT & PHREDS

256

High St, M4 1LW

Funnily enough, 256 Wilmslow Road, M14 6LB

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BAA BAR

HERIBIVORES (VEGGIE CAFÉ) The Burlington Rooms, M13 9PL

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258 Wilmslow Road, M14 6JR Arch 11, Deansgate Locks, M1 5LH & 27 Sackville Street, M1 3LZ

70 Oxford Street, M1 5NH

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CORNERHOUSE

REDRUM

RED HOT WORLD BUFFET

346 Wilmslow Road, M14 6AB

48 Deansgate, M3 2EG

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JABEZ CLEGG

OKLAHOMA

2 Portsmouth Street, M13 9G

74-76 High Street, M4 1ES

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FACTORY

THE SOUP KITCHEN

112-118 Princess Street, M1 7EN

31 - 33 Spear Street, M1 1DF

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TIGER TIGER

WHITWORTH ART GALLERY

27 Withy Grove, M4 2BS

Oxford Road, M15 6ER

-9-

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5TH AVENUE

JOHN RYLANDS DEANSGATE

121 Princess Street, M1 7AG

150 Deansgate, M3 3EH

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42ND STREET

MANCHESTER MUSEUM

2 Bootle Street, M2 5GU

Oxford Road, M13 9PL

- 11 -

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VENUE

ROYAL EXCHANGE

29 Jackson’s Row, M2 5WD.

St Ann’s Square, M2 7DH

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SOUTH

AFFLECKS PALACE

4A South King Street, M2 6DQ

52 Church Street, M4 1PW

STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

LOCATED IN THE HEART OF FALLOWFIELD NEWLY REFURBISHED • ALL BILLS INCLUSIVE. NO HIDDEN COSTS • FREE HIGH-SPEED BROADBAND AND WI-FI • NEW MODERN FULLY FITTED KITCHENS • ON-SITE COMMUNAL LOUNGE WITH WIDE SCREEN TV • CCTV WITH ON-SITE MONITORING • ON-SITE LAUNDRY ROOM

ALL BILLS INCLUSIVE Ladybarn House | 2 Moseley Road | Fallowfield | Manchester | M14 6ND | Tel: 0844 371 5646 | Email: ladybarn@crm-limited.co.uk

ROPEMAKER COURT FANTASTIC LOCATION ALL-INCLUSIVE RENTS • BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED EN-SUITES • ALL-INCLUSIVE UTILITY BILLS • FREE FLAT SCREEN TV AND TV LICENCE IN ALL CLUSTER KITCHENS • FREE CONTENTS INSURANCE • FREE HIGH-SPEED BROADBAND • WI-FI ENABLED • ON-SITE MAINTENANCE

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MANCHESTER STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

MANCHESTER IS A STUDENT-FRIENDLY PLACE TO LIVE, WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF CHEAP ACCOMMODATION, MUCH OF WHICH IS AFS TOP TIP SITUATED CLOSE TO THE UNIVERSITY. Users of the AFS website ranked Manchester joint 4th in the UK, with an overall score of 62%. Just a few University towns ranked more highly than this. Among our students, Manchester scored particularly highly for quality of transportation links.

Although a major University city, with a diverse range of accommodation available, the average room rental of £70.48 in 2012 is very close to the national average of £68.70. In our 2012 survey of average rents, Manchester proved to be cheaper than cities such as Newcastle, Glasgow and Leeds.

Within Manchester there is a high concentration of students in Victoria Park, Rusholme and Withington. However, in our surveys these areas perform averagely scoring around 56% for satisfaction and not offering a significant price benefit, with average rents around the £70 mark.

VOTED

H T 4 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S 98 | Manchester

Areas that score particularly highly for student satisfaction include Fallowfield (68%) and the citycentre (72%). Fallowfield, with an average rent of £73 is rather more affordable than the centre of the city where £88 is the average.

Hulme, which is extremely close to

the city-centre has lower average rents (£80) and similar satisfaction levels.

Not necessarily the first choice for students, Chorlton gets solid feedback from users of the AFS website (60%) but has a very attractive average weekly rent (£55). Chorlton was relatively recently connected to the citycentre by the Metrolink so we expect the satisfaction levels to continue to rise.P

PRIVATE HALLS Manchester is well served for private halls of residence with a wide selection available.

Highlights include CRM Students’ Ropemaker Court, which is one of the newest private halls in the city and is located close to the popular Whitworth Park. Opal students have 9 halls in the city, including Wilmslow Park, where the Cafe’ offers free food and pastries during weekdays. Finally, for a wide selection of halls try Mansion students, who have a presence in a number of the key student areas.

NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE CITY GUIDE MARTINE DIETRICH BY

I’M MARTINA DIETRICH. I’M IN MY THIRD YEAR STUDYING ENGLISH LITERATURE & I LIVE IN JESMOND.

Metro does great Indian food and offers take-away as well.

BEST PLACES TO EAT The Blue Bunny Café or The Hancock Pub are great places to get quality sandwiches or burgers and a pint, and are only a few minutes from campus – perfect for lunch when you don’t want yet another Subway meal.

Olive and Bean is only a bit further into the centre of town and has slightly more upmarket deli food at reasonable prices for when your parents are in town, or you’re feeling a bit fancy. It’s pretty close to St James’ Park as well.

Visit Scalini’s or The Fat Hippo in Jesmond for a decent dinner within walking distance of the pubs on Osbourne Road. Komal’s on the other side of the West Jesmond

If you get hungry later on in the evening, there’s a 24-hour bakery on Mistletoe Road in Jesmond that always hits the spot.

The Butterfly Cabinet in Heaton is good for slow, hungover mornings – check out their pub quiz as well – while Heaton Perk is lined with games if you fancy waking your brain up again over your coffee.

Scrabble, anyone?

HIDDEN GEMS Wander through what looks like a dingy alleyway off of Bigg Market and you’ll find a few vintage shops full of weird and wondaerful treasures.

If you’re looking for cheap vintage, the British Heart Foundation shop

by Grainger Market is another good spot to check out.

typical American food, or to Safran Culture for something a bit more exotic, to ward off hunger while shopping. If you’re a fan of Asian food, grab some samosas from one of the shops on West Road in Benwell while stocking up on cheap food for the week. If quirky food is what you’re after, Chinatown has some great supermarkets as well. When the sun comes out, head to one of the many parks – Leazes Park is my favourite – or hop on the Metro to the beach.

Tynemouth has a nice market on a Saturday with plenty of bits to fill your flat, while Whitley Bay boasts a pretty lighthouse and good fish and chips. If books are your thing, make sure you visit the Lit&Phil library before heading for the Tyneside Cinema. It hosts talks about books and film, as well as being a quirky place to see the latest releases.

Head to the Stateside Diner for an alcoholic milkshake and some

Newcastle | 99

A GREAT NIGHT OUT Our nights usually start somewhere along Osbourne Road for Happy Hour or Mojito deals before a quick trip to Sinners in town for cheap trebles and dancing.

From here it’s on to one of the bigger bars or clubs. Digital is renowned for massive nights out, and while it isn’t always cheap the music’s good and there’s a lot of variety across the rooms. They have a student night on Mondays with rock-bottom prices, but the queues are so ridiculous I normally don’t bother.

Perdu is a great alternative, as are Legends and Florita’s...though don’t be too surprised if many of your nights begin and end in Sinners or Sam Jack’s. Powerhouse is another Newcastle staple, and everyone has to have at least one Saturday night at Riverside.

Nights often end buried in a burger and chips from Munchies or one of many McDonald’s in town.

BEST THING It’s a small city (but it packs a punch). Everywhere you are, you’re just a short walk away from your friends, as well as campus, shops and night-life.

Being small could easily have led

to Newcastle being a dull city, but it isn’t. Every corner is packed full of things to do and people to see. Life is constantly buzzing around you.

WORST THING The rain. It can hit you in the middle of a sunny day, last for ten minutes, and still have you completely soaked through. It’s best to keep an umbrella on you at all times – unless you’re as hard as the locals and manage to ignore it.

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

-9-

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SINNERS

BLUE BUNNY CAFÉ

THE BUTTERFLY CABINET

63 Newgate Street, NE1 5RF

11 St Marys Place, NE1 7PG

200 Heaton Road, NE6 5HP

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PERDU

HANCOCK PUB

HEATON PERK

20 Collingwood Street, NE1 1JF

2A Hancock Street, NE2 4PU

103-105 Heaton Park Road, NE6 5NR

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LEGENDS

OLIVE & BEAN

BIGG & GRAINGER MARKET

77 Grey Street, NE1 6EF

17-19 Clayton Street, NE1 5PN

NE1

-4-

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FLORITA’S

ST JAMES’ PARK

THE BRITISH HEART FOUNDATION

28-32 Collingwood Street, NE1 1JF

Saint James’ Boulevard, NE1

16 Sidgate, Eldon Square, NE1 7XF

-5-

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SAM JACK’S

SCALINI’S

STATESIDE DINER

The Gate Complex, NE1 5TG

61 Osborne Road, NE2 2AN

10 Saint Mary’s Place, NE1 7PG

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POWERHOUSE

THE FAT HIPPO

LEAZES PARK

7-19 Westmorland Road, NE1 4EQ

35A Saint George’s Terrace, NE2 2SU

Richardson Road, NE1 4LR

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RIVERSIDE

MISTLETOE BAKERY

LIT&PHIL

The Close, Quayside, NE1 3RQ

17 Mistletoe Road, NE2 2DX

23 Westgate Road, NE1 1SE

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MUNCHIES

KOMAL’S

TYNESIDE CINEMA

31 Percy Street, NE1 7

14-16 Brentwood Avenue, NE2 3DH

10 Pilgrim Street, NE1 6QG

100 | Newcastle

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NEWCASTLE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

NEWCASTLE WAS RANKED JOINT 4TH IN OUR SURVEY OF TOP STUDENT CITIES WITH A HEALTHY OVERALL AFS TOP TIP SATISFACTION RATING OF 62% AND AN AFFORDABLE AVERAGE ROOM RENTAL OF £68.

The city-centre has proven to be popular and has gained an overall satisfaction rating of 70% from students. It’s close to the shops and both Newcastle and Northumbria Universities’ campuses, which means you can roll out of bed and into lectures. With an average room rental of £58 per week, this is also a very affordable area to live in.

If you’re looking to move out of the city but still maintain some of the night-time buzz, Jesmond and West Jesmond are both popular areas with students and located close to the shops, bars and restaurants on Osbourne Road. With a slightly shorter walk into the city, Jesmond scored a rating of 68% with students and has an average room rate of £79. West Jesmond is slightly cheaper with average rooms costing £73, but is a little bit further away.

VOTED

H T 4 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S 102 | Newcastle

Heaton offers a number of alternative bars and cafés, and a generally vibrant air, as well as average room rates of £60.

This area is increasingly popular with students and situated just a short walk from the city-centre. A little further out of the city is High Heaton, which gained a student rating of 68% and offers rooms from as little as £38 per week.

Sandyford is close to the citycentre and Universities, as well as the more popular area of Heaton, and boasts an average of £69 for room rental. The number of students in this area is growing and it is gaining a lively community of its own. Spital Tongues, while a bit smaller than Sandyford, is also increasing its student community and has been rated at 80% by students. Rooms there have an average price of around £71 per week.

PRIVATE HALLS Newcastle offers a range of highquality student accommodation, including Student Castle and Portland Green – which will be open from August 2013. Both are located minutes from the universities and boast top-quality rooms. With its location between campuses and the Quayside, Student Castle is a popular option amongst all students and is in the perfect location for escaping the bustle of the city, while keeping all the city has to offer firmly on your doorstep. Portland Green is similarly placed and is close to both Jesmond’s shops and bars, and Heaton’s many restaurants and cafés.

NEWCASTLE’S MOST TALKED ABOUT STUDENT ACCOMMODATION CITY CENTRE LOCATION SITUATED ON MELBOURNE STREET,

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NOTTINGHAM CITY GUIDE TOM O’ROURKE BY

I AM A STUDYING A MASTER’S DEGREE IN MAGAZINE JOURNALISM AT NOTTINGHAM TRENT UNIVERSITY. I AM ORIGINALLY FROM LINCOLNSHIRE AND HAD A SPELL TEACHING ENGLISH IN SOUTH KOREA BEFORE MOVING TO NOTTINGHAM TO STUDY. AS WELL AS STUDYING, I ALSO CONTRIBUTE TO MEDIA FOR THE NOTTINGHAM LIONS ICE HOCKEY TEAM, NIGHTLIFE AND OCCASIONALLY In The Times Good University If you prefer a quieter, more Guide, Nottingham was relaxed atmosphere, there are WRITE FOR TRAIL praised for its nightlife - “With endless pubs, with many of them mix of clubs it has, catering included in the Good Beer Guide RUNNING MAGAZINE. the for all wants and tastes, you will 2012, as well as receiving various be hard pushed to find better accolades. In keeping with MY INTERESTS OUTSIDE elsewhere.” Having acquired the other Nottingham’s historical reputation, Flag Award, Nottingham is some of them are the oldest in the OF WRITING INCLUDE Purple also nationally recognised for its country. A prime example would excellence in the running of the be Ye Olde Salutation Inn, which FOOTBALL, BOXING, city-centre at night. Simply put, if claims to have been established you like going out, Nottingham is a in 1240AD when a Tannery was ROCK MUSIC, ROCK great choice for students. built on the site of a 13th century CLIMBING AND TRAIL Popular clubs with students are alehouse. If you like to watch sport with your drink, pubs such as the Oceana, Ocean and Dogma for RUNNING. Cross Keys and The Globe show those with dance music tastes; Dogma offers students free entry on Thursday nights too. If your music tastes veer towards indie and rock or funk, pop and retro music, then The Cookie Club is perfect for you, with cheap drinks to be had on Wednesday nights.

104 | Nottingham

football and rugby on TV regularly.

M A E R D E H T E V LI MANSION STUDENT n io t a d o m m o c c a t n e r stud ie m e r p ’s m a h g in t t o N

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WHETHER YOU’RE INTO ARTS, THE THEATRE, COMEDY OR FILMS- NOTTINGHAM WILL SUFFICIENTLY SATIATE YOUR APPETITE.

MUSIC SCENE For live music aficionados, there is a variety of venues including the Capital FM Arena, Rock City and The Rescue Rooms which host touring artists throughout the year, ranging from global superstars to local bands.

Venues like The Maze offer blues bands and acoustic gigs regularly also.

SHOPPING If you fancy a spot of shopping, and taking advantage of your NUS card at your favourite retailers, Nottingham won’t disappoint.

With over 1000 shops, it was listed in the top 10 UK shopping destinations in 2010. It boasts two large department stores in the form of the Victoria Centre and Broadmarsh Centre. For outdoor shopping, Market Square is a popular place to hang out, with plenty of pop-up stalls appearing throughout the week.

CULTURE Whether you’re into arts, the theatre, comedy or films, Nottingham will sufficiently satiate your appetite.

For mainstream cinema, Cineworld is in the city-centre, with Showcase and Savoy cinemas in Lenton.

Broadway Media Centre offers independent and world cinema in its large auditorium.

If you like a good laugh, Nottingham Playhouse and the Capital FM Arena offer well-known comedians, with the Glee Club, Just the Tonic and Jongleurs hosting lesser-known talent most nights for a great price.

When you fancy a bit of Shakespeare on stage, Nottingham Playhouse and The Royal Concert Hall are always putting on critically acclaimed productions, with discounts for students common.

106 | Nottingham

Museums are a great change from the usual activities students engage in. Nottingham Contemporary is one of the largest contemporary arts centres in the UK and the Djanogly Art & Wallner Gallery has a wide range of both historical and contemporary exhibitions for viewing.

SPORT Nottingham is notorious for its reputation as a sporting city. The list of major sports teams include: Nottingham Forest, Notts County, Nottingham Rugby Club and Nottingham Panthers, to name a few. It has well-equipped sports facilities too, if taking part in sport is your desire. Both universities have great reputations for sport, so you’ll never be short of a team, whatever you play. Finally, the annual Varsity series between the universities is hugely competitive and great fun for everyone involved, whether you’re playing or spectating.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS The legend of Robin Hood has made the county of Nottinghamshire famous all over the world. Sherwood Forest should definitely be high on your to-do list when you study here.

Other places to check out are Nottingham Castle, the annual Goose Fair and the Robin Hood Pageant, for memorable experiences with your friends.

Don’t forget to visit the many local parks, such as the Arboretum or county parks such as Clumber Park for a spot of walking and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city-centre.

BOOK NOW FOR 2013/14 ACCOMMODATION

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The rent is INCLUSIVE of utilities and contents insurance Just across the road from the university

Inclusive wireless internet A safe and secure living environment Warden and Tutor team

JCR committee 24 hour Reception On-site mini supermarket and Café/Bar

For more information and to apply, please visit our website uppbroadgatepark.com

+44 (0)115 951 8670 broadgatepark@upp-ltd.com

UPP Broadgate Park Turnpike Lane, Beeston Nottingham. NG9 2RX

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

- 13 -

- 25 -

OCEANA

VICTORIA CENTRE

NOTTINGHAM CONTEMPORARY

Lower Parliament Street, NG1 3BB

222 Victoria Centre, NG1 3QN

Weekday Cross, NG1 2GB

-2-

- 14 -

- 26 -

OCEAN

BROADMARSH CENTRE

DJANOGLY ART & WALLNER GALLERY

Greyfriar Gate, NG1

Lister Gate, NG1 7LL

Lakeside Arts Centre, NG7 2RD

-3-

- 15 -

- 27 -

DOGMA

MARKET SQUARE

NOTTINGHAM FOREST F.C.

9 Byard Lane, Lace Market, NG1 2GJ

2 Beast Market Hill, NG1 6FB

The City Ground, Pavilion Road, NG2 5FJ

-4-

- 16 -

- 28 -

THE COOKIE CLUB

CINEWORLD

NOTTS COUNTY F.C.

22 Saint James’s Street, NG1 6FG

The Corner House, NG1 4AA

Meadow Lane, NG2 3HJ

-5-

- 17 -

- 29 -

YE OLD SALUTATION INN

SHOWCASE CINEMA

NOTTINGHAM R.F.C.

Hounds Gate, NG1 7AA

Redfield Way, Lenton, NG7 2UW

Meadow Lane, NG2 3HJ

-6-

- 18 -

- 30 -

CROSS KEYS

SAVOY CINEMA

NOTTINGHAM PANTHERS

74 Front St, NG5 7EJ

233 Derby Road, NG7 1QN

Capital FM Arena, NG1 1LA

-7-

- 19 -

- 31 -

THE GLOBE

BROADWAY MEDIA CENTRE

SHERWOOD FOREST

152 London Road, NG2 3BQ

14-18 Broad Street, NG1 3AL

Edwinstowe, NG21 9HN

-8-

- 20 -

- 32 -

ROCK CITY

NOTTINGHAM PLAYHOUSE

NOTTINGHAM CASTLE

8 Talbot Street, NG1 5GG

Wellington Circus, NG1 5AF

Friar Lane, NG1 6EL

-9-

- 21 -

- 33 -

CAPITAL FM ARENA

THE GLEE CLUB

GOOSE FAIR

Bolero Square, Lace Market, NG1 1LA

Castle Wharf, Canal Street, NG1 7EH

Gregory Boulevard, NG7 6JP

- 10 -

- 22 -

- 34 -

RESCUE ROOMS

JUST THE TONIC

ROBIN HOOD PAGEANT

25 Goldsmith Street, NG1 5LB

The Cornerhouse, Burton St, NG1 1AA

Nottingham Castle, Friar Lane, NG1 6EL

- 11 -

- 23 -

- 23 -

THE MAZE

JONGLEURS

THE ARBORETUM

257 Mansfield Road, NG1 3FT

10 Thurland Street, NG1 3DR

Waverley Street, NG7 4HF

- 12 -

- 24 -

- 24 -

ST JAMES’ PARK

ROYAL CONCERT HALL

CLUMBER PARK

257 Mansfield Road, NG1 3FT

Theatre Square, NG1 6LG

Clumber Park, S80 3PA

108 | Nottingham

CRM RUSSELL VIEW A CHOICE OF LUXURY STUDIOS & ENSUITE CLUSTER ROOMS Russell View is beautifully designed brand new student accommodation in the heart of Nottingham. A mix of en-suite cluster rooms and studios are available; making Russell View ideal for undergraduate, postgraduate and International students.

• ALL-INCLUSIVE OF UTILITIES. NO EXTRA BILLS • LARGE TV’S WITH FREEVIEW IN LOUNGES & STUDIOS • GREAT LOCATION IN THE CITY CENTRE • COMMUNAL GAMES AND SOCIAL AREA T:0844 371 5662 | E: RUSSELLVIEW@CRM-LIMITED.CO.UK

BOOK ONLINE NOW @

CRM-STUDENTS.COM 70 Russell Street | Nottingham | NG7 4FL | Tel: 0844 371 5662 | Email: Russellview@crm-limited.co.uk

NOTTINGHAM STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

NOTTINGHAM IS AN INCREDIBLY ATTRACTIVE PLACE FOR STUDENTS TO LIVE, WITH LOTS OF ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN AND AROUND THE CITY-CENTRE. STUDENT ACCOMMODATION IS GENERALLY SITUATED CLOSE TO THE UNIVERSITIES AND GENERALLY OFFERS GOOD VALUE (WITH AFS TOP TIP AVERAGE STUDENT RENTS OF £69) AS WELL AS SUITING A RANGE OF BUDGETS.

VOTED

H T 6 T N I JO AFS USERS BY

110 | Nottingham

If you are a student at NTU, there is an abundance of accommodation near the City, Clifton and Brackenhurst campuses. If you decide to live further away from the campus where your course is based, the Unilink no. 4 bus service runs from City Campus to Clifton Campus every 12 minutes, and the no.

34 service from The University of Nottingham to the city-centre every 7-8 minutes. Whichever University you are studying at, transport is frequent, reliable and easily accessible for students.

satisfaction rating on our site (96%), and with its excellent location close to many restaurants, bars and Cineworld - you’ll never have an excuse to be bored.

Nottingham has a wide selection of areas containing student accommodation. Mapperly Park (78%) receives particularly good feedback, with rents just above the city average at £70. At the other end of the scale, Clifton, with an average rent of £57, is considerably cheaper but receives less positive reviews from our students (52%).

The city-centre, a very convenient area to live, has slightly higher average rents (£79) and similarly high satisfaction levels.

CRM has two new halls in Nottingham, Talbot Studios and Russell View, both of which are well connected to the Universities.

Mansion group have three halls, including Mansion Square which is a recently refurbished grade 2 warehouse space, and the Glasshouse which is being refurbished over the summer. UPP operate in partnership with both Universities and their halls include Broadgate Park at Nottingham University.

Of all the locations, Trinity quare has the highest student

Derby Road and West Bridgford’s average rents are £66 and £65 respectively, both with a high student satisfaction rate of 72%, so these are great choices for those on a budget who don’t want to live too far away from the city-centre.

PRIVATE HALLS

PLYMOUTH CITY GUIDE

BY ROSEMARY LONG

AS A SECOND-YEAR STUDENT AT PLYMOUTH UNIVERSITY, I REMEMBER MY EXCITEMENT OF LEAVING TO LIVE BY THE student culture in Plymouth GOING OUT? SEA; HOWEVER, I The is obvious from the moment you It’s not difficult to find The University is moments WASN’T EXPECTING arrive. somewhere to go in the away from the city-centre by foot evening here, and whether and the halls of residence are SUCH AN you fancy dancing until the early predominantly located on or very to campus, as is plenty of the hours or just a quiet pint, there are OVERWHELMINGLY close bars, pubs and clubs to fulfil any other student accommodation. social criteria. With regular student can roll out of bed at ten to HAPPY CITY AND You nights offering discounted entry nine and still be on time for your and drinks, one of the biggest and lecture. Cross the road, HUB OF ACTIVITY. morning and you’re at Drake Circus and the busiest clubs is C103. Located on centre of town. In fact, everywhere you may need or want to go is within walking distance, saving time and precious pennies. It’s so easy to find your feet as a student in Plymouth, but here are some tips to help you run on them anyway.

Union Street, a short stumble from Wetherspoons, Vodka Revolutions and Walkabout, Oceana is always full and always cheap. It’s a bit further away than the other nightlife and is the only place you’ll probably ever consider needing a taxi for, but a free bus service is provided, saving your money and feet.

Plymouth | 111

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

DRAKE CIRCUS SHOPPING CENTRE 1 Charles Street, PL11EA

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VOODOO LOUNGE The Money Centre, PL1 1QH

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PLYMOUTH UNIVERSITY & UPSU The Students’ Union (UPSU) offers plenty of good value student nights throughout the week and multiple different rooms for wherever your dancing feet want to take you. Get acquainted with North Hill, as you’ll know it intimately very quickly as it is home to bars such as Cuba, Bang Bang and Mousetrap, all of which are easy on the pocket and busy most nights. This short ascent links the University with Mutley Plain, which also has many bars and pubs (including The Dog and Duck, which sells any drink on any night for £2).

If you fancy a quieter pint however, there are lots of pubs around offering a slightly more expensive drink, but you get what you pay for as there are a range of lovely local scrumpy ciders. You can find these high percentage delights at many of the smaller pubs such as The Woodside. Jack Chams is another diamond, host to a quirky and energetic weekly pub quiz that gives a free cheese board to every team, because free cheese tastes better. If it’s more of an alternative atmosphere you’re after, check out Voodoo Lounge, the club that’s bass lines reverberate through the whole city at weekends, and White Rabbit, an intimate location featuring plenty of live bands and all your favourite rock anthems.

112 | Plymouth

SECRET TREASURES Near the city-centre there is a market where you can buy cheap fruit, veg and meat. Hidden around the corner you will find Little Camden, a junk shop piled high with, well, junk.

There are plenty of cheap gems to be discovered in the strange and surprising piles of unorganised treasure, which is fun to explore even if you don’t buy anything.

Plymouth Hoe is a beautiful expanse of green, showcasing the west coast of the country and the symbolic lighthouse. On sunny days you’ll find students playing and rolling about on the Hoe and with dedicated barbeque squares there is really no reason to ever leave. A short picturesque walk is always the Barbican, located in the old town of Plymouth. The quaint cobblestoned streets lace the anchored boats that pepper this sweet seaside retreat. You will find the best fish and chips you’ll ever eat along with lots of other bars and restaurants. Also in the Barbican is the renowned Plymouth Gin distillery. For under £10 you get a tour and a free drink.

The National Marine Aquarium is also nearby and entry is priced at about £9; however, if you fill out a form you get free entry all year, providing fun activity for any day.

There is so much more to be discovered in this lovely city.

This gem of the south west links easily by train to other lovely cities such as Exeter and Falmouth. Be sure to treasure with pride your stay in this both historical and contemporary city.

Drake Circus, PL4 8AA

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VODKA REVOLUTION Derry’s Cross, PL1 2SW

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WEATHERSPOONS Union Street, PL1 2SU

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WALKABOUT Union Street, PL1 2SU

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C103 Union Street, PL1 2SU

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OCEANA Barbican Leisure Park, PL4 0LG

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MOUSETRAP, CUBA & BANG BANG from the bottom to the top of North Hill

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DOG & DUCK Top of North Hill, 15 Mutley Plain, PL4 6JG

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THE WOODSIDE 12 Gasking Street, PL4 8DQ

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JACK CHAMS 50, Ebrington Street, PL4 9AF

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WHITE RABBIT Next to Bretonside Bus Station, PL4 0BG

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MARKET & LITTLE CAMDEN Between Drake Circus & Union Street PL1 1PS

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THE HOE Hoe Road

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THE BARBICAN, AQUARIUM & PLYMOUTH GIN Harbour Avenue, PL4 ODW

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PLYMOUTH STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

PLYMOUTH IS HOME TO THE NINTH LARGEST UNIVERSITY IN THE UK. IT IS A POPULAR CHOICE DUE TO ITS WIDE RANGE OF ACCOMMODATION SITUATED WITHIN CLOSE SURROUNDINGS OF THE CAMPUS, NOT TO MENTION ITS SEAFRONT AFS TOP TIP LOCATION. In both national and AFS surveys, Plymouth has scored consistently on aspects of the city such as its shops, facilities and nightlife, with an overall running score of 60%.

Although the average weekly rent in Plymouth in 2012 is £82.64 in comparison to the national average of £68.70, it does score higher on satisfaction levels than other major UK universities such as Nottingham and Birmingham.

Plymouth has also proved to be more affordable than other popular cities in the south, such as Brighton where the average rent is £87.50, and Exeter where the average rent is £93.42.

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H T 5 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S 114 | Plymouth

Plymouth has a high concentration of students within the Mutley and North hill areas, and even though the average rent there is £83, they scored 62% (Mutley) and 68% (North hill) in our surveys for student satisfaction. Another area that scored highly in our survey was the city-centre with a score of 68%; however, the average rent in this area is £90 which is clearly less affordable.

Other mainly student populated areas include Lipson and St Judes, where the rent is very close to the average of £82.64, and the satisfaction levels are around 55%.

Although the accommodation is not as cheap as in other UK cities, students will save money on public transportation, which is rarely needed in a city where most accommodation, shopping centres, and nightlife are all within walking distance of the University.

PRIVATE HALLS Unite has two private halls of residence in Plymouth, including Discovery Heights, which is just across the road from the University and the recently refurbished Central Point. Both of these locations have proved to be popular with students. Western Challenge works in partnership with the University and currently operate five halls of residence, including Haytor House and Combestone House.

PORTSMOUTH CITY GUIDE AMRITA DASGUPTA BY

I AM AMRITA, A THIRD-YEAR STUDENT LIVING IN BEST THING Portsmouth is a busy PORTSMOUTH AND waterfront city with an irresistible blend of heritage, STUDYING HISTORY arts, shopping, restaurants and bars. There is absolutely no excuse AND POLITICS. to staying in when there’s so much happening in town! Miles and miles of seafront, including the millennium trail down the promenade, makes the city ideal for students on a budget. There is nothing like a walk down the stunning waterfront to remind you of the history of Portsmouth and its importance to the heritage of Britain. It is a city with the mildest weather and a beach, albeit pebbly, but what more could you want?

116 | Portsmouth

THINGS TO DO Most of the city can be seen on foot, unless you want to go on a cruise of course! If you really want to go for it, the Portsmouth Tourism Guiding Service offers guided walks and tours for a nominal fee.

They also have some free tours like the Dickens Walk and Treasure Hunt but they are offered on a first come, first serve basis.

My favourite ‘touristy’ places to visit are the Historic Dockyard to explore three of the most famous warships ever built and the Spinnaker Tower for the amazing views.

Other than the significance of Portsmouth in the history of the

Royal Navy, Portsmouth is also home to two legendary British authors Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens. 2012 marked the 200th anniversary of Dickens’ birth and inspired a plethora of Victorian events.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS Portsmouth will never leave you bored. It is always celebrating something or the other, usually arts and culture.

One of the major events in summer is Portsmouth Festivities which have a different theme every year and this year it was Dickens 2012.

If you want something more Dickensian visit the Victorian Christmas Festival. You can walk the streets of Dickensian, society and browse the Victorian markets.

The festival strives to uphold the tradition of being the largest Christmas market in the south.

PLACES TO EAT If you are unsure about what you want to eat and you are shopping for choices, the Gunwharf Quays is the best place to go. It has everything from casual cafés, bars, Chinese buffet to upmarket restaurants. It is the best place for a casual night out or great views during the day. Anywhere on the Gunwharf Quays is usually easy on the pocket.

Another shopping and food and drink place to keep in mind is Albert Road. You can spend a

whole day and a night there just browsing. The cheapest eats on Albert Road are the Wine Vaults and, if you fancy a curry, Bombay Express Balti House which offers student meal deals. Ken’s Kebab and the Noble House are good for late nights out. The White Room, a Thai restaurant on the Seafront, has a great all you can eat buffet on certain nights with discounts for students.

SHOPPING Albert Road is a bustling street of independent traders, quirky shops, fabulous restaurants, trendy bars and cafés, retro clothes, antiques and crafts. There are quite a few bargain and student-friendly shops on Albert Road, the best being Book Bonanza which prices books at 50p and £2. Also, Adelphi Books which always seems to be a bit more organised. For clothes at bargain prices and for the alternative look, visit Bored Ltd and Dress Code or try One Legged Jockey on Commercial Road.

If you are looking for chain stores and designer wear, you will be better off at the nearby Palmerston Road, which has a Debenhams and a John Lewis. You could also go to Gunwharf Quays for other designer brands.

music and comedy. Pop in to Wine Vaults or 5th Hants Volunteer on the way.

The best place to go wining and dining would be Beckett’s Wine Bar and Bistro at Bellevue Terrace.

With wooden floorboards and a conservatory this place has plenty of wine to choose from and gorgeous food too.

The Wedgewood Rooms on Albert Road and Route 66 on Palmerston Road are always an option for late nights. Anywhere down Albert Road is a good place for party and cheap drinks, Little Johnny Russell is probably your best bet. The best club in Portsmouth has to be Time and Envy, where you can get in for £2 and get drinks for £2 as well on Friday nights.

GETTING HOME The transport links are great in Portsmouth, but it often takes less time to walk than taking a bus ride! www. walkit.com is a good tool to know for planning walks around the city. Cycling is another option, the people of Portsmouth are big on green commuting and green living.

Moreover, green travel is free and student-friendly. Of course, you can get a taxi if you are stranded!

NIGHTS OUT As well as being home to the Kings Theatre, Albert Road is also home to the Wedgewood Rooms that hosts live

Portsmouth | 117

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

PORTSMOUTH HISTORIC DOCKYARD Victory Gate PO1 3LJ

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SPINNAKER TOWER Gunwharf Road, PO1 3TT

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THE WINE VAULTS 41-47 Albert Road, PO5 2SF

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BOMBAY EXPRESS 77-79 Albert Road, PO5 2SG

PORTSMOUTH STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

IN OUR SURVEY, PORTSMOUTH WAS GIVEN A VERY RESPECTABLE SCORE OF 60% SATISFACTION BY OUR STUDENTS, THE SAME SCORE AS MAJOR UNIVERSITY CITIES SUCH AS CARDIFF AND BRIGHTON.

Portsmouth has the 17th highest accommodation costs in the UK, with an average student rent of £76.29.

The most popular area for students in our survey was the city-centre, with satisfaction rates of 70% and average rentals just a shade below the city average.

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H T 5 T N I JO AFS USERS BY

118 | Portsmouth

Unilife operates two new private halls in Portsmouth, one on Earlsdon Street and one on St James Street. Both are finished to the high standards students expect and are extremely well located close to the University.

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KEN’S KEBABS 97 London Road, PO2 OBN

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NOBLE HOUSE 43 Osbourne Road PO5 3LT

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WHITE ROOM 38-42 South Parade PO4 USH

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BOOK BONANZA 147 London Road, PO2 9AB

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ADELPHI BOOKS 147 London Road, PO2 9AB

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BORED & DRESS CODE 23 Albert Road, PO5 2SE

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KING’S THEATRE 20 -24 Albert Road, PO5 2QJ

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BECKETT’S VIEW BAR 11 Bellevue Terrace, PO5 3AT

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St James’s Street - PO1 3AP Earlsdon Street - PO5 4DH Both our new halls of residence are within the Portsmouth University Quarter and a five minute walk from Portsmouth Harbour Station, Portsmouth & Southsea Station, Portsmouth’s Central Bus Station, Tesco, The Co-op and the Student Union.

Prices from £125 pw Don’t miss out

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unilife.co.uk Page Title | 119

MUSIC

READING CITY GUIDE

BY ZOEY O’BRIEN

120 | Reading

Sub89 is a favourite of mine; an underground club regularly hosting to a number of big acts. If you love your electronic music, like drum and bass, garage and dubstep, then this should definitely be your go to place! Tickets are reasonably priced and its always a cheap night - jumping around till 5 in the morning tends to mean you spend your night drinking what you sweat in water. A very welcome break from the usual chart music in clubs, but be prepared for ringing ears at the end of the night!

Purple Turtle is well worth a mention for its music nights too. From house, old skool and funky – there’s always a weekly event supporting the local DJs! It’s also free entry; saving you those much needed student pennies. More charm than the chain pubs, and a great mix of people to enjoy it with.

If you’re over twenty-one, Spin Bar is a great night out; playing house, dance and Ibiza anthems in addition to the usual commercial chart hits. It also boasts a beachthemed garden area and a dance cage. Well so I’ve heard anyway.

For those (like me) not old enough to experience Spin Bar, Milk Bar is the next best thing.

Milk Bar is a well-kept secret (not anymore) – good if you want a more chilled atmosphere, or even just to pre-drink to some decent music rather than JLS on repeat on your flatmate’s iPod.

COMEDY The Hexagon is a great place to see some big name acts like Greg Davies (Inbetweeners), Jimmy Carr and Al Murray. If you fancy a change from the usual ring of fire and dirty pints, then a comedy act before a night out is a great way to get you started. Don’t be worried when you step inside, no you’re not Marty McFly and you haven’t just stepped back in time – the décor is just a little dated. Besides that however, I’ll guarantee you’ll have a good time.

READING HAS RE-CREATED ITSELF INTO AN UP AND COMING THRIVING CITY. WITH PLENTY TO BE PROUD OF IN THE WAYS OF UNIVERSITY LIFE, GREAT TRANSPORTATION LINKS AND BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDING COUNTRYSIDE, READING HAS DEFINITELY COME A LONG WAY SINCE THE DAYS OF BEING BRANDED ‘UGLY’.

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

SUB 89 On 110-117 Friar Street, Reading, RG1 1EP

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PURPLE TURTLE Located at 9 Gun Street, Reading, RG1 2JR

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SPIN BAR South Street will give you a chuckle or two, with regular comedy acts, or, monthly comedy clubs if you fancy making a day of it. They also attract many names in the theatre, music, dance and live literature scenes.

FILM The Oracle Centre in Reading situates a wellmaintained Vue Cinema, showing all the latest movies on state-of-the-art screens. Although it’s pretty expensive, sometimes Netflix just doesn’t cut it. Don’t forget to bring your student card to qualify for a cheaper ticket.

If you prefer slightly less mainstream or even foreign films, then check out The Reading Film Theatre, situated on campus in the Palmer Building. From rich literary adaptions to independent thrillers – it’s doubtful you’ll find these films playing alongside Harry Potter in the cinema, so it’s worth forking out a tiny portion of your student loan on a membership if this is your kind of thing.

SHOPPING With two main shopping centres, Broad St Mall and The Oracle, and plenty of independent shops as well as high street brands, Reading has become one of the UK’s top retail destinations. If high-end fashion is what you’re looking for, then head into The Oracle, the home of shops such as Republic, Zara and Hollister Co. You could easily spend a few hours in here trawling your way through all the shops – even longer if you can’t find your way out of Hollister Co. Don’t forget to take a pit stop at some of The Oracles’ finest eateries, everything from French cuisine or Italian feasts, to the distinctly British Slug and Lettuce.

If you’re a bit of an Indie Cindy, then take a peak in Harris Arcade for an Aladdin’s Cave of independent, unique and boutique shops. Some great shops for quirky gift ideas, such as ‘Strange Sweets’ offering an eclectic mix of traditional, American and even South African drinks and sweets. I’m getting a toothache just thinking about the place!

Can be found at 20 Hosier Street, Reading Berkshire RG1 7JL

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MILK BAR On 8 Merchants place, Reading, Berkshire RG1 1DT

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THE HEXAGON Can be found at Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7UA

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SOUTH STREET Found at 21 South Street, Reading, RG1 4QU

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THE ORACLE Found at Management Suite, Reading, Berkshire RG1 2AG

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READING FILM THEATRE On campus in the Palmer Building, Whiteknights, Reading RG6 2AH

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HARRIS ARCADE Neatly tucked away at 15 Friar Street Reading, West Berkshire RG1 1DN

Reading | 121

READING STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

READING HAS A CLOSE-KNIT STUDENT COMMUNITY. WHEREVER YOU CHOOSE TO LIVE FROM THE VARIED ACCOMMODATION READING HAS TO OFFER, YOU’LL NEVER BE FAR FROM OTHER STUDENTS AND UNIVERSITY LIFE. Users of the AFS website gave Reading an overall score of 58% for satisfaction, matching the overall satisfaction ratings of some major University cities such as London, Birmingham and Nottingham!

Among our students, Reading scored particularly highly for quality of transportation links.

Being on the commuter-belt to London, higher rental prices should be expected; however at an average rental of £73.79 in 2012, Reading still beats places like Bournemouth, Bristol and its close counterpart Oxford on price.

One of the most densely populated student areas, Cemetery Junction, received 58% for satisfaction, with ‘shops’ being scored particularly highly. You can be expected to pay an average of £64 a week to live in this area, according to our survey.

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H T 6 T N I O J BY A F S U S E R S 122 | Reading

If you were to go five minutes down the road towards Palmer Park, another student area, you can be expected to pay a much higher average of £77 a week – which proves it really does pay to look around. Be prepared to pay more the closer you are to the

University, with average rents for the University area reaching as high as £75 a week. This higher price does reflect the overall satisfaction rate, however, as levels for this area reach as much as 75%.

AFS TOP TIP If you’re looking for somewhere close to amenities and near the University and other student areas, then Lower Earley and Cemetery Junction are the way to go. Not only do they have low weekly rents (£62 - £64 per week) but also satisfaction levels of around 5870%.

PRIVATE HALLS Unite offer modern student living options in the form of Kendrick Halls and Crown House (postgraduate) to students of the University of Reading. Both offer options of either an en suite room in a shared flat, or a private studio if you prefer your own space.

Located right by London Road campus, a short walk from town, and just a £1 bus journey away from outside Kendrick Halls to the main campus, makes this an excellent location.

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KENDRICK HALL

CROWN HOUSE

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SHEFFIELD CITY GUIDE

BY GEORGIE BEADMORE

SHEFFIELD’S A BRILLIANT CITY WITH A FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE AND LOADS TO GET INVOLVED IN, SO IF YOU’RE SET ON STUDYING HERE, YOU’RE IN FOR A FANTASTIC TIME!

I’m Georgie. I’m currently studying for my Masters in Creative Writing at the University of Sheffield (having completed my undergraduate degree in German and History here in 2012). I’ve lived in Sheffield for over four years now and at the moment I’m living in the Groves area near Ecclesall Road, though previously I’ve also lived in Crookes and Broomhill.

GOING OUT There are so many great bars and clubs in Sheffield that you’ll be spoilt for choice. My typical night out usually begins with a couple of drinks at home with my housemates or at a friend’s before we head out to some of our favourite bars on West Street (a road you’ll quickly become very familiar with, as its positively packed with places to dance, drink and be merry).

If money’s tight, we might go to the Beehive or the Cavendish (which are very popular with students for their great-value drinks deals),

124 | Sheffield

or if we’re feeling more flush we’ll head for cocktails at the Wick At Both Ends or Revolution de Cuba (a brilliant bar that serves drinks in teapots and holds free swing dance classes on Wednesday evenings).

If we’re feeling in the mood for some live music, we also might stop by the Green Room or Bungalows & Bears on Division Street, where the slightly higher drinks prices are thoroughly worth the brilliant atmosphere and unusual décor.

Our choice of club will usually depend on the night of the week; if it’s a Monday, we’ll head to Leadmill, where the low drinks’ prices and great mix of music means it’s a sell-out night every week. Leadmill also plays host to Itchy Feet, a travelling swing and soul club night that visits Sheffield about four times a year but is always an amazing night out.

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Wednesdays, we’ll usually pick Corporation (more commonly referred to as “Corp”), which is a ludicrously popular club despite its grubbiness, so you’ll want to get your tickets a few days in advance (you can buy them from various bars on West Street and around Sheffield).

Saturday always means Pop Tarts at the University of Sheffield Students’ Union – we’ll grab a

I HAVE SO MANY FAVOURITE PLACES TO EAT IN SHEFFIELD THAT’S IT’S BEEN A STRUGGLE TO WHITTLE THEM DOWN

EATING OUT I have so many favourite places to eat in Sheffield that’s it’s been a struggle to whittle them down to this short list – be assured that these are definitely the best of the best!

If you’re looking for a cheap and tasty lunch, the Interval in the University of Sheffield Students’ Union serves a great variety of food at student budget prices.

The Frog and Parrot on Division Street does some tasty pub grub, whilst the Old House is a great shout for either lunch or dinner, serving delicious food in a lovely

THERE ARE SO MANY LOVELY LITTLE PLACES HIDDEN AWAY IN SHEFFIELD THAT I THINK YOU’D HAVE TO SPEND YOUR WHOLE LIFE EXPLORING TO FIND THEM ALL.

setting, with tasty veggie and gluten-free options too.

You’ll also find great food in the Forum (don’t forget to explore the independent boutique shops whilst you’re there) and if the parents are visiting or you can afford something a little pricier this week, the Thyme Café in Broomhill is a lovely restaurant that serves exquisite food, and there’s no need to book in advance.

Finally, Hercule in Crookes is a tiny café that sells homemade cakes and chocolates as well as the best rarebit in Yorkshire.

HIDDEN GEMS There are so many lovely little places hidden away in Sheffield that I think you’d have to spend your whole life exploring to find them all.

My favourite by far is a quirky little second-hand book shop and café called the Rude Shipyard; located on Abbeydale Road, it’s a bit of a walk out of town, but the joy of browsing the enormous selection of books whilst munching a slice of Guinness cake or sipping coffee from a tea cup is well worth the trek. They also have a programme of events including readings and live music, so there’s usually something a little different going on every time you visit.

The Lantern Theatre too is a lovely venue for music and the arts; situated in Nether Edge, it’s a tiny 80-seater venue and is so old that

126 | Sheffield

couple of extra shots at the Union’s very own Bar One before dancing our socks off to cheesy 90s’ pop all night long. And, as if that wasn’t enough for you, you can always continue the party after the clubs have closed every night at the Harley; a brilliant pub and music venue that keeps the tunes rolling until daylight dawns, as well as hosting some great themed nights, which are always lots of fun.

attending a performance there is like stepping back in time.

And speaking of music, why not check out the Folk Train? On the last Tuesday of every month, a folk band takes over the 19.14 to Manchester. They play music all the way out to the pub in Edale, where everyone hops off for a pint and some more music, and then there’s yet more music on the train back to Sheffield again around half-past nine. Always loads of fun, the Folk Train costs just the price of a return train ticket (around £6 with a student rail card), plus it’s a good laugh to watch the surprised faces of commuters who can’t understand why people are suddenly cracking out banjos and fiddles on this otherwise perfectly ordinary train journey.

THE BEST THING

THE WORST THING

Sheffield is known as “the largest village in England” because it is so beautifully green, with 80 public parks and around 650 open green spaces.

This is brilliant in the summer, when there’s nothing better than to stock up for a picnic or a barbeque and go for a lazy day of sunbathing in your nearest park. They play host to all sorts of awesome events too, including gigs, fetes, plays and stages for Sheffield’s free music festival, Tramlines.

Unless you’re in the citycentre, virtually everywhere you need to be is up an enormous hill. Sheffield (like Rome) is built on seven hills, so though the stunning panoramic views of the city are completely worth it once you’ve reached the top, you will be running out of puff a lot during your first few weeks here. Still, when you’ve no budget for a gym membership, it’s a cracking workout for those thigh muscles, eh?

I COULD TELL YOU SO MUCH MORE ABOUT THIS WONDERFUL CITY, BUT I HOPE THAT’S ENOUGH TO GET YOU STARTED. ENJOY YOUR TIME HERE (I KNOW YOU WILL), DO SOME OF YOUR OWN EXPLORING AND HAVE FUN STUDYING IN THE GREATEST CITY IN THE WORLD! WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

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THE BEEHIVE

BUNGALOWS & BEARS

CORPORATION

Can be found on West Street, S1 4EW.

Can be found on Division Street, S1 4GF

found on Milton Street, S1 4JU (behind the Victoria Hall student residences).

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-7-

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CAVENDISH

FROG & PARROT

SHEFFIELDS STUDENTS’ UNION

Can be found on West Street, S1 4EW.

Can be found on Division Street, S1 4GF

Western Bank, S10 2TG

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WICK AT BOTH ENDS

THE OLD HOUSE

THE THYME CAFÉ

Can be found on West Street, S1 4EW.

Found on Devonshire Street, S3 7SB

at the Broomhill end of Glossop Road, S10 2QA

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REVOLUTION DE CUBA

FORUM

HERCULE

Mappin Street, S1 4DT (off West Street, opposite Blackwell’s Bookshop).

Found on Devonshire Street, S3 7SB

Found at 203 Crookes, S10 1TE (the Crookes main street).

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THE GREEN ROOM

LEADMILL

RUDE SHIPYARD

Devonshire Street, S3 7SG (opposite Devonshire Green).

Not too far from the main train station, on Leadmill Road, S1 4SE.

Found at 89 Abbeydal Road, S7 1FE

128 | Sheffield

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S N O I T A C O L T GREA WE OFFER A GREAT CHOICE OF STUDENT ACCOMMODATION CLOSE TO CAMPUS AND SHEFFIELD CITY CENTRE, INCLUDING:

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SHEFFIELD STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

SHEFFIELD IS A STUDENT-FRIENDLY CITY, WITH A RANGE OF ACCOMMODATION SITUATED NEAR TO BOTH UNIVERSITIES AT A RANGE OF PRICES. AFS users ranked Sheffield joint 4th in the UK, with an overall score of 62%. Sheffield scored particularly highly for transport, which is most likely a result of the cheap student bus fare (60p single with valid student card) and efficient tram system.

University accommodation is offered at a range of prices, with the average room rental standing at £65.57 in 2012 (below the national average of £68.70). In comparison to other student cities surveyed in this year, Sheffield is at the lower end of the scale, scoring significantly lower than Manchester, Leeds and the majority of southern cities.

VOTED

H T 4 T N I JO AFS USERS BY

130 | Sheffield

Areas in Sheffield that score particularly highly for student satisfaction include West Street (86%), the city-centre (74%) and Ecclesall Road (72%). Despite being further from the city-centre, the average rent per week for Ecclesall Road properties is £71, although they are situated in a

convenient location for Sheffield Hallam students. Surprisingly, the average weekly rent for city-centre and West Street properties is £69 and £68 respectively. Maximum rent for city-centre properties is £95 per week, suggesting there is a wider price bracket for this area to suit different budgets.

PRIVATE HALLS Sheffield has a wide selection of private halls available to rent. CRM Students’ Park Student Village is located centrally; a 10-minute walk from Sheffield Hallam University and the city-centre, and a 10-minute tram ride from Sheffield University.

Study Inn student halls are located in The Moor precinct within a 5-minute walk from the city-centre in the heart of shops, restaurants and bars. Finally, for a wide selection of halls try Unite Students, which has accommodation in a range of areas, many of which are close to the city-centre, and in particular, the Sheffield Hallam campus.

SOUTHAMPTON CITY GUIDE RICHARD DIXON BY

I’M RICHARD AND I’M IN MY THIRD YEAR STUDYING CIVIL ENGINEERING AND I LIVE IN HIGHFIELD. GREAT NIGHT OUT

I would start the night out with my friends in the Hobbit, a Lord of the Rings themed pub and also a popular watering hole with students. The alcohol and food is slightly dearer than student prices at other pubs and bars, but, situated in Portswood it attracts live music such as local bands, and has a friendly atmosphere.

If my friends and I want to go clubbing afterwards, the pub is in the ideal location because it finds itself no more than a few hundred yards from the two most popular

student clubs in Southampton; Sobar and Jesters. Sobar is a big night out on a Tuesday. The queues often stretch back quite far but you usually get in before midnight. Close to students’ hearts is Jesters, the underground club once voted FHM’s worst nightclub in Britain. There is a strange unique pride associated with the club and is definitely worth a visit at Southampton; it is a memorable experience whether you tend to like it or not! A trip to Charcoal Grill is the best way to finish the night for a kebab or cheesy chips.

Southampton | 131

BEST PLACES TO EAT The union shop provides a range of food from sandwiches and snacks to hot food like burgers and pasties; however, the hot food dwindles on some days. The Piazza restaurant is a large food outlet on campus.

It offers the standard fast food meals including large pieces of chicken or pizza with curly fries.

Piazza also does great vegetarian meals and salads, jacket potatoes, Indian and Mexican food on a regular basis. The place is packed out by lunchtime and is by far the most popular food outlet on campus. Peri–Peri chicken, a cheaper version of Nando’s, is a Southampton favourite off campus and the food is available to eat in or take away.

HIDDEN GEMS Southampton Common is close to campus and is a beautiful open park space to enjoy. The Flemings Arms pub is located close to Montefiore Halls of residence. Although it is a chain pub rather than a traditional one, they do great dinners in the evenings and have several pool tables for you to enjoy yourself in a family-friendly environment.

Away from the urban environment 5 minutes from campus is Glebe Court (a large country house) and the former Uplands area which reflect the ‘older’ Southampton. In Uplands Way the old buildings sit in a countryside scene similar to one taken out of Midsummer Murders.

BEST THING Southampton Common in the summer is a hotspot for activity. A large open, environmentally-protected grassland park, it hosts many of the sports societies training sessions in the winter. However, in the warmer weather the location is ideal for friends to gather around barbeques in the late afternoons. It is also a spot to take

132 | Southampton

walks and enjoy the wildlife and green scenery. The newly-built Sea City museum in the city-centre is dedicated to the city’s maritime past, charting the Titanic’s life as it set sail on its last voyage 100 years ago, and is worth a visit.

WORST THING The Flower estates a mile or so away from campus is known for problems within the community and struggles with young people and anti-social behaviour. There is also a distinct lack of museums and old buildings to look at, so is not a location for students looking to stay and marvel in a city steeped in history!

ACCOMMODATION The accommodationforstudents.com survey ranked Southampton as joint 5th with an overall score of 60%. The city scored consistently across all categories, including for going out, shopping and transportation. Overall, students ranked Southampton just below major University cities like Manchester and Liverpool and on a par with Leeds.

With an average rent of £67.25 per week, accommodation in Southampton certainly offers value for money and is just below the national average of £68.70.

Popular areas included Portswood, Highfield and Polygon. The first of those three areas has high satisfaction ratings (66%) and competitive average rents (£68).

Unilife operates a private hall on the busy high street, which is located close to West Quay and local amenities, as well as enjoying great transport connections with both Universities.

Keep an eye out for their new location, Park House, which will open in September 2013.

WHERE’S IT AT? -1-

THE HOBBIT PUB 134 Bevois Valley Road Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0JZ

-2-

SOBAR 102 Bevois Valley Road, Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0JZ

-3-

JESTERS 114-118 Bevois Valley Road Southampton

-4-

SOUTHAMPTON SU University Rd, Southampton SO17 1BJ

-5-

SOUTHAMPTON COMMON The Avenue, Southampton SO15 7NN

-6-

THE FLEMINGS ARMS Wide Lane, Bitterne, Southampton SO18 2NL

-7-

CLEBE COURT Glebe Court, Southampton, Hampshire, SO17 1RH

-8-

THE SEA CITY MUSEUM SO14 7FY

-9-

SEVEN DIALS SHOPPING AREA Covent Garden, WC2H 9HD

I needed my

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space... ...I found it with Unilife and it’s all inclusive Self contained apartments in Southampton • Unlimited high speed wireless internet

• En-suite bathroom

• Double bed

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Your space, your way Where are we?

Prices from £125 pw

Park House - Exciting new apartments for 2013 - SO14 7DT

Don’t miss out

High Street - Right where you need to be - SO14 2NX On the High Street, our studio apartments are perfectly positioned to enjoy the great shopping and nightlife that the city has to offer but are also the ideal base for both Southampton Solent University and The University of Southampton.

Contact Samantha to arrange a viewing: yourspace@unilife.co.uk or call 0845 5195 100

unilife.co.uk Page Title | 127

HOW TO THROW THE BEST THEMED PARTY CASILDA GRIGG BY

CASILDA GRIGG IS THE CO-AUTHOR (WITH ROSANNA KELLY) OF 'GOODBYE COCKROACH PIE 50 BRILLIANT STUDENT RECIPES FROM EDINBURGH AND BEYOND'. IT CAN BE ORDERED ONLINE (£9.99 PLUS P&P) AT We are a nation that loves breaking the ice,’’ she says. dressing up, so it’s no surprise that In the Eighties, the student themed INKYPAWSPRESS.CO.UK, students, a demographic often was a limp affair OR BOUGHT AT BLACKWELL’S ahead of the curve, are throwing party revolving around pumping parties everywhere from AND WORD POWER BOOKS themed music, wigs and fishnet tights.

Aberdeen to Aberystwyth. Togas ‘Tarts & Vicars’ parties were IN EDINBURGH. remain universally popular. What madly fashionable. One-time could be easier than to get out of bed wearing the bed? At Oxford, students report a surge in ‘When I Grow Up Parties.’ ‘‘There are an awful lot of plumbers coming out of here,’’ says one undergraduate.

In Edinburgh such parties are at their most inventive. In just four years, medical student Becky Arkwright has attended a dizzying raft of themed evenings from ‘Bad Taste’ to ‘Ginger Celebrity’ (see box). ‘‘They’re very good for

134 | How To Throw The Best Themed Party

Edinburgh student Harriot Lane-Fox remembers going as a ‘‘very tame’’ tart. ‘‘My boyfriend was the sleazy one,’’ she reminisces. Blood and gore were also à la mode. Durham undergraduate Peter Brown recalls a Bastille ball in which guests carried severed heads under their arms.

What’s changed in the last 25 years is that food and drink are now centre-stage. Where

once spaghetti carbonara and shepherd’s pie would be testing the limits of culinary expertise, universities are now fostering generations of mini Jamies and Nigellas who grind their own spices and make their own shortbread.

So how do you pull off a themed party that people will love? Like so much of life, it’s about planning.

Once you’ve hit on a great subject and sorted the key components, success will surely follow.

THEMED PARTY IDEAS ROARING TWENTIES Flapper dresses, feather boas, cocktails (especially martinis) and cucumber sandwiches.

Expect several guests to come as evil Thomas and haughty Lady Mary from Downton Abbey.

Get someone to serve the food wearing evening dress and addressing people as ‘Ma’am’ and ‘Sir.’ GINGER CELEBRITIES Dress up as Pippi Longstocking, Prince Harry, Ron Weasley or Ginger Spice. Offer guests orange sweets and ginger hairspray.

short and snogging to Don’t Go Breaking My Heart are almost obligatory. Serve your guests macaroni cheese, jam roly poly, Bacardi Breezers and lager.

SURREALIST DINNER PARTY Lobster telephones, twirling moustaches and diamante necklaces (for both sexes) are a must, as are courses served backwards and wacky décor.

ABC PARTY (ANYTHING BUT CLOTHES) Worried no one will turn up? Throw a Shipwreck Party instead (only four items of clothing allowed, including shoes).

A BURNS NIGHT SUPPER (25 JANUARY, 2013) Where ever you may be studying, celebrate the poetry of Scotland’s most famous bard with lashings of whisky and liberal quantities of haggis, neaps and tatties (see Goodbye Cockroach Pie, for recipes). Kilts and bagpipes are de rigueur, as is a boozy rendition of Burns’s famous ‘Address to a haggis.’

SUCCESS ON THE NIGHT • Finger food is a sure winner.

Dips, cheese platters, crisps and tapas generally go down a storm • Fill the bathtub with booze, ice and water. Dazzle your guests with a signature cocktail, such as a Dark and Stormy • Ask your coolest friend to create a themed playlist instead of putting your iPod on random • Don’t leave out anything that might get stolen or broken • Splash out on mood lighting – anything from fairy lights to glow sticks • Stock up on plastic cups, bin liners and ashtrays

BACK TO SCHOOL PARTY (AKA SCHOOL DISCO) Few can resist the chance to break the rules with their old school uniform. Ties slung around necks, skirts hitched dangerously

How To Thow The Best Themed Party | 135

GOURMET STUDENT COOKING ON A BUDGET

BY LUKE THOMAS

LUKE THOMAS IS A YOUNG CHEF WHO LAUNCHED LUKE’S DINING ROOM THIS YEAR AT JUST 18 YEARS OLD, AT SANCTUM ON THE GREEN IN BERKSHIRE.

Born and raised in North Wales, Luke had to balance school with his passion for cooking. He studied at Connah’s Quay High School where he achieved eight GCSEs and then attended Yale College Wrexham for his NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Professional Catering.

The chef, now aged just 18, won Springboard’s FutureChef 2009, and has committed himself to cooking since the age of 12, working evenings, weekends and holidays. His portfolio of experience is already extensive and impressive, ranging from stages at a variety of UK establishments, to work placements alongside a host of top Michelin-starred chefs.

BUDGET COOKING

The key for me when cooking on a budget is not to waste anything!

Leftovers are not a bad thing and can be reused in interesting ways to create completely new dishes.

Meat, fish, vegetables can all be used for salads, fry-ups, omelettes and stir-fries. Leftover cooked fish, for example, can make a great stir-fry. Get some stir-fry vegetables (packet ones are fine), cook with an oriental sauce or dressing and finish with the cooked fish. It’s a great inexpensive meal! It’s worth forking out on a few key ingredients for the store cupboard such as soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, honey & oyster sauce; all of which are great for making a quick Asian style dressing.

136 | Gourmet Student Cooking on a Budget

It sounds obvious but people often don’t do this… look for the offers on meat and fish in supermarkets and then plan your meal around what’s on special or in season (this is usually the cheapest).

Make sure you use every single bit of what you buy. For example if you buy prawns, keep the shells and make a bisque with them, or if you roast a whole chicken keep the leftovers and carcass to make soup. If you make spaghetti bolognese, then make extra and make a shepherd’s pie or chilli con carne as well. Budget cooking is all about trying to make what you have go further!

LEMON & THYME CHICKEN SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

8 CHICKEN PIECES Legs, Drumstick or Thigh

2 LEMONS Zest & Juice

THYME 15 Sprigs

OIL / VEGETABLE OIL 100ml

SALT & PEPPER Just a Pinch

GARLIC CLOVES 5, Crushed

METHOD

CHEF’S TIP:

1. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl.

Add the lemon zest and juice, thyme, oil, salt and pepper and garlic. Place in the fridge for 24 hours or overnight to marinade.

I would suggest serving this with a nice rocket and Parmesan salad, or some fragrant rice.

2. Take a griddle or frying pan. When the pan is very hot, add the chicken pieces to colour, turning regularly. Once evenly coloured, place on a tray in a medium oven for 45 minutes.

3. The chicken should be tender and very fragrant. Use all of the juices from the chicken as your sauce.

This is a very basic recipe with few ingredients, but tastes truly delicious and is always a crowd pleaser amongst my student friends. It tastes great hot served with fragrant rice, but equally as good cold, so use any leftovers tossed through a salad or served with some cous cous.

You can also use the same marinade for cooking any white fish or pork chops.

Gourmet Student Cooking on a Budget | 137

BEST PLACES TO LIVE

EVERY YEAR 1,000’S OF STUDENTS TELL US WHAT THEY THINK OF WHERE THEY HAVE BEEN LIVING. HERE IS A LIST OF THE TOP 20 PLACES TO LIVE AS A STUDENT, AS VOTED FOR BY AFS USERS. 01 Westminster

06 Aberdeen

11 Glasgow

16 Newcastle Upon Tyne

02 Warwick

07 Brighton

12 Hartlepool

17 Sheffield

03 Bournemouth

08 Dundee

13 Islington

18 Bangor

04 Dorset

09 Edinburgh

14 Leamington Spa

19 Bedford

05 Falmer

10 Exeter

15 Liverpool

20 Belfast

AVERAGE RENTS

EVERY YEAR WE COLLATE DATA ON THE RENT THAT STUDENTS ARE PAYING, HERE IS OUR LIST OF THE TOP TEN MOST EXPENSIVE PLACES TO LIVE AND THOSE THAT HAVE THE LOWEST RENT MOST EXPENSIVE P/W

LEAST EXPENSIVE P/W

CITY

AVERAGE RENT

CITY

AVERAGE RENT

London

£107.29

Pontypridd

£45.94

Guildford

£93.46

Stockton

£47.45

Exeter

£93.42

Stoke - on - Trent

£49.20

Cambridge

£92.70

Middlesbrough

£49.21

Brighton

£78.50

Wolverhampton

£51.58

138 | Best Places & Prices

TACKLING BILLS CAN FRACTURE FRIENDSHIPS

IT CAN BE SCARY FINDING ACCOMMODATION AND PAYING BILLS FOR THE FIRST TIME. AND IT CAN BECOME A TOTAL NIGHTMARE IF YOU FALL OUT WITH FRIENDS BECAUSE YOU CAN’T AGREE HOW TO SPLIT BILLS.

WWW. GLIDE. UK.COM

Whether it’s splitting the bill on a beer and burger night out or getting everyone to pay their way on a pub crawl, money always threatens to come between friends.

living in different cities. Costs can vary widely and high rents could cripple your chances of successfully completing your degree.

As the NUS’s Think Positive found last year in its Breaking the Silence report on student mental health, almost half (48.7%) of students get stressed out about paying bills and rent.

When you do start house hunting, shop around. Don’t panic and sign a contract for the first property you see. There may be a better one with lower rent just around the corner.

Helen Smith, a former law student from Birmingham, says: "When I was a student, we fell out over bills so badly, one of our housemates actually moved out. It upset me so much, I ended up flunking my end of year exams and had to repeat a year.”

Try to avoid looking for next year’s house too soon. You may get a better deal from landlords later on in the academic year.

For some it becomes so bad that they vow never to have anything to do with people they used to regard as best friends.

So it really does make sense to think now about how you limit your outgoings and agree how to split payments before the bills arrive.

Before you even choose a university, compare the cost of

Make sure you only have to pay your share of the bills by signing up with a service like Glide. This will protect you if one of your housemates drops out or can’t pay.

Glide makes bills simple for students by sending a single monthly bill for everything from gas, electricity and water to broadband, telephone and even your TV licence so there’s no need to worry about unexpected bills, energy price rises or who pays what.

Tackling Bills | 139

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