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Wednesday 24 December 2014

Holiday Food Across the World with FlatClub

Enjoying this festive time of the year? So are we - but maybe not in the same way that you will!

The team at FlatClub comes from all over the world, so we've got varied traditions at this time of the year. We asked a few of our team members what they like to eat around this time of the year; after all, food brings us all together, and a big meal shared with friends & family is a universal celebration.

please click to see a larger version of this image
As you can see we all enjoy a special meal at the end of the year with our families & friends. It's something that can unite communities across the world - the love of family & the love of food.

What is your favorite holiday meal? Do you have any special traditions in your region of the world?

Tweet us @flatclubcom, or leave a comment on the blog!

Wednesday 17 December 2014

Make an Offer or Alternative Accommodation for a Guest

We love our hosts on FlatClub - we've created many new features in the past for their benefit. Take a browse through memory lane with our hosting articles, if you like. Our latest change will make receiving a booking all that much easier.
Sarah reviews her options after receiving a message from guest Kenny
Our newest feature for FlatClub hosts is the chance to offer a deal or alternative accommodation to guests. Generally we foresee this feature being used for messages or live requests where a booking has yet to be confirmed. Take a look on your own dashboard at your latest messages & live requests!

Offer a Deal
If you’re keen to get your room booked and you have interest from a guest but they need a little flexibility on price - now you can offer a deal. Give a bit of a discount that isn’t listed on your flat description, and it’s as easy to do as sending a message! That way you can guarantee your room gets booked for a period without having to formally lower your price.
Sarah offers guest Kenny a discount to secure his booking
Offer An Alternative
If you must turn a guest down for a specific property, you won’t necessarily lose their booking - as you may offer an alternative from the rest of your published flats. It can happen to any host, but it’s a great way to safeguard yourself if you’ve already booked a room & forgotten to update your calendar. Guests will appreciate the quick response & the ability to continue the booking process with you, painlessly.
Sarah offers her potential guest a different room when he requests one that is booked
We call these new features Offer a Deal or Alternative. It’s perfect for use when a particular flat isn’t available - hosts will have a drop down with all of their published flats to offer. Also great when you want to offer a deal in order to meet a guest’s budget - wonderful for when you want to fill some space in your calendar.

You’ll be given the option to Offer a Deal or Alternative in your messaging threads on FlatClub, including messages & live booking requests.

Top 5 Parks in Notting Hill

Take some time out in Notting Hill greenery and get back to nature. Looking for a place to stay in Notting Hill? FlatClub can help you find the perfect inexpensive room in Notting Hill. Once you've found it, take a break in one of these parks!


Hyde Park - 350 acres of beautiful park in Central London, Hyde Park is a shining gem in the capital city. You can boat on the Serpentine, enjoy food in the cafe, and do a spot of bird-watching.

Kensington Gardens - All sorts of lovely gardens abound in Kensington Gardens - the Italian gardens specifically are quite spectacular to see. There are some nice memorials & a statue of Peter Pan for good photo ops.

Holland Park - Spread across the grounds of a mansion that was damaged by World War II, Holland Park has an interesting collaborative garden with Kyoto in Japan. Enjoy the beautiful Japanese inspired garden and take a moment to remember.

Porchester Square - A lovely garden in Notting Hill with ornamental bedding displays, this one may be a bit more quiet so a good choice if you want to get away from the crowd.

St James's Gardens - A quiet place of rest for many Londoners, this cemetery is a respectful area with some further reaching grounds. A great spot for photography if you’re into that sort of thing, as well.

Tuesday 16 December 2014

Top 5 Notting Hill Coffee Shops

So you're waking up in your comfortable, well located flat in Notting Hill (care of FlatClub, of course) and you need caffeine. There are 5 coffee shops we know of that do a mean cappuccino. Which one is your favorite?


Books for Cooks - Books for cooks is a unique shop cum cafe, where you can purchase a vast assortment of cookbooks (from many nations) and sample a bite or two from the books themselves, cooked in the back cozy kitchen! Of course there’s also coffee & tea on tap, so if you’re looking for a cool gift for a chef & a nice way to spend an afternoon, Books for Cooks could be the place.

Talkhouse Coffee - Some of the loveliest coffee in all of Notting Hill! Not only that, but they have St Johns amazing doughnuts in stock - get there early, and I recommend a custard doughnut & a latte. The avocado toast & chili is also nice!

Teanamu Chaya Teahouse - An interesting experience - a tea house inside of someone’s home in a scenic Notting Hill neighborhood! Enjoy a great cuppa in the Chinese style of tea ceremony, with some delicate bites alongside. This is independent in the truest sense - a business being run from home! Support it, gain the experience & knowledge, and learn more about tea.

Granger & Co. - Great coffee & amazing brunch is available at this Australian cookbook author’s caff. The coffee is Allpress, nice & strong. Get some ricotta pancakes & a hot cappuccino once you’re nearby!

Gail’s Artisan Bakery - A lovely environment with lots of windows to let in light, this bakery also makes a mean cup of coffee. Get yourself one of the espresso-based drinks with regular or soy milk, and then top yourself off with a sandwich or a pastry like the classic brownie.

Monday 15 December 2014

Top 5 Notting Hill Restaurants

Notting Hill is a famous area of London - it's lovely to visit, so it makes sense! At FlatClub we have quite a few flats in Notting Hill. When you're staying in one of our great properties, you'll need to eat - these are our 5 recommendations in the area.


The Ledbury - The Ledbury is an exceptionally classy Modern European restaurant in Notting Hill. With 2 Michelin stars to it’s name, the delicious food won’t come cheap, but it will be amazing. The tasting menu is our suggestion - go on a romantic evening out or to celebrate a big event! A forewarning though, picky eaters might have some trouble with the menu - but why not branch out and experiment?

Otto - Sure, it’s not easy to find gluten free pizza in London. Even harder, perhaps, to find dairy free pizza in London. Otto can help you sort that out with a great, varied menu that can keep even pizza-fans with dietary limitations happy! Perhaps the coolest thing is the option to order by the slice - surprisingly not common in London, it’s a great opportunity to try many pizzas.

The Shed - Neo British cuisine with a lot of unique features, the Shed is well on the way to becoming a destination restaurant in Notting Hill. Ran by some down-home brothers from Sussex, they serve hearty food with some rather interesting twists.

Nama Artisan Raw Foods - Vegan in London? Luckily you have plenty of options, but one that is sure to set your heart a-flutter is Nama. Not only vegan, but plenty of raw options as well - so very healthy! You can even get cheesecakes & tacos - but of course, raw & vegan. Those are our recommendations.

The Electric Diner - Exciting options in Notting Hill for American diner fare - so expect some delicious burgers, sandwiches, and fried sides. Worth noting that there is also a cinema here, and you can bring in food you’ve bought from the diner into the theatre - in case you don’t have time to eat before the show.

Thursday 11 December 2014

FlatClub Wins Standout Success at Elevator Pitch Awards

Last Tuesday evening, FlatClub was proud to take home the Standout Success award for the 2014 Elevator Pitch Awards, hosted by TechCityNews.


The consideration for this award was FlatClub acquiring Google as a client, our $1.5 million investment success, and our over-all improved revenues & user numbers going into 2015.

We're in great company this year as other startups who took home awards included such interesting ventures as NightZookeeper & KarismaKidz, both startups with a focus on children & helping to improve their academic & emotional growth. We're proud to stand next to them as startups accepting kudos from TechCityNews.

The awards that were given out are futuristic & well-designed 3D printed trophies provided by Wonderluk, which also creates 3D printed jewelry. It was an amazing night to spend among other startups with an atmosphere of camaraderie and improving our community & world together.

“While we weren’t expecting to win an award necessarily, when I thought about it I realized it really did follow the trajectory of FlatClub in the last year. We’ve had an amazing 12 months and I think the hard work that the entire team, including our hosts, have put in is why we’re considered a standout success.” said Alex Spencer, our host recruitment manager who attended the ceremony.
If you're interested in hosting on FlatClub and acquiring your own high quality guest from Google, find more info on our hosting portal. Or, if you’re interested in winning a competition of your own - we have the largest list of UK startup competitions, some still going on in this final month of 2014! Check back in 2015 for an updated database.

Wednesday 10 December 2014

2015 Colour of the Year In Your Flat



Have you heard what Pantone's colour trend prediction is for the upcoming year? If not, we're happy to be able to break the news to you: the colour of 2015 is Marsala, a lovely wine brown neutral that can put to great use as a home decor tone!

Marsala wall art & rug displayed in Ann's FlatClub flat
The earthy & grounding aspects of the shade means that it can easily integrate into any room in your flat. The calming & homey nature of the colour will also put your guests at ease.

An easy way to bring the 2015 colour of the year into your rental is through kitchenware - things such as display fruit bowls, dinner plates, and mugs. Look out for branded Pantone marsala mugs soon!

 If you're in the market to purchase a small appliance for your kitchen, many do come in a marsala shade. Look for 'wine red' coffee makers, hand blenders, and food processors. A small tea-towel will also do the trick in a clean, modern kitchen.

In the bathroom, a soap dish or a large bath towel is a chic way to tie marsala into the furnishings.

Burgundy red marsala highlights throughout Margarida's living room
In the living room a lovely display would be flowers with tones of wine, red, and brown - the main hues that make up marsala. Dark roses, brown chrysanthemums, and wine colored orchids make for a lovely autumnal bouquet that will bring to mind marsala. You could also use a marsala vase with contrasting light-colored flowers, or a marsala rug underneath your table.

Wine & brown marsala shades complement Imran's Private Room on FlatClub
Another interesting way to include marsala in your flat is through a welcome mat - set it outside & you'll be tying together your entire home, inside & out.

Want help getting your beautiful, on-trend flat listed on our site? Visit our hosting portal for more information & our personal assistance on offer!

Saturday 6 December 2014

5 Things to Do in Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf sometimes gets a bad reputation as being a bit dull. Sure, there are lots of offices in Canary Wharf, some chain restaurants, and on the surface it might appear to be a bit boring - however, look a bit closer and you'll find plenty to do! It's also an excellent place to stay while you explore the rest of London due to the convenience of transport here, and the modern fixtures that are common in this area of the city that may be harder to find elsewhere in London. We've got lots of places to stay in Canary Wharf.

Read on for interesting things to do in Canary Wharf that you may have missed.


Museum of London Docklands - Free entry, this museum goes over the growth of the Docklands area and the revitalization of the River Thames. It wasn’t always a banker’s paradise, and in fact the area has a rich & interesting history. You can walk through a reproduction of a historical dock area, with costumed actors telling stories about life in that era!

Public Art Collection - There is lots of art publicly on display in Canary Wharf, so just having a wander around will net some interesting photography shots and perhaps even give you something to think about. The website linked will give you a bit of an overview of what to look for.

Surrey Docks Farm - A farm so near Canary Wharf? Well, it’s true! Children especially enjoy the opportunity to hang out with some donkeys, cows, and pigs. Another very cool feature on this working farm is the blacksmith - it’s the only farm in the city where a blacksmith will put on live demonstrations. It’s certainly an interesting craft that few of us have ever seen done in person!

Balfron Tower - Balfron Tower was an intriguingly designed social housing project that has many unique architectural features. While the former residents have been moved out now to make way for a more upmarket tenant (Canary Wharf’s property values have, of course, skyrocketed since the 1960s) for now it has been converted into a temporary museum of sorts. You can explore the inside of the building, and see the way the architect would’ve lived upon the time of it’s construction.

Pumphouse Educational Museum - Originally in use to pump water from the River Thames, this building has been converted into a museum - perhaps the only one in the world housed in a former pumphouse? Outside of the museum there is also a lovely green park to visit - it’s all just about 15 minutes out of Canary Wharf walking.

Thursday 4 December 2014

Top 5 Nightlife Spots in Canary Wharf

There's plenty to do in Canary Wharf after the work day ends - with so many professionals working here, there must be something to entertain them! Wine fans will have a field day, as will cocktail & steak aficionados. Take a look at your options and choose one that suits you to party all night. Or, at least, at happy hour.


Boisdale - Boisdale in Canary Wharf has some of your classic seafood like lobsters & oysters to celebrate with, and there is plenty of seating for large crowds. You can also indulge in a ‘whiskey flight’, take in some cigar tasting, and eat a steak. Sort of a classy Mad Men night out.

First Edition - If you’re a wine fan, and who isn’t, this is the place for you in Canary Wharf. Not only is there a great wine selection, the food isn’t half bad either! The cheese platter is particularly excellent - especially when paired with the right wine.

Rum & Sugar - Great cocktails with a particular focus on rum, so expect fruity & curiously strong tropical flavors as you go - but there are other styles, too. This is also a venue for some live music & good food - we recommend the pork belly.

Davy’s - Lovely food, and of course a strong wine collection are the hallmarks of this wine bar. Full of well-decorated & ornate objects, it’s got a nice atmosphere and would be a great place to celebrate a special occasion.

All Bar One - A chain throughout the UK, this branch of All Bar One is often quite busy with wharf workers. There are cocktails on the menu to suit every taste, and the food is of good standard. Plenty of seating and counter top space makes this, while crowded, an easy one to enjoy a night out in. The drinks are nice & inexpensive, as well.

Wednesday 3 December 2014

Top 5 Coffee Shops in Canary Wharf

The working masses of Canary Wharf need to stay caffeinated - whether you're working hard or using Canary Wharf as a base of exploration for London, coffee is the way to go. Canary Wharf has options, all the ones you'd expect and some special cafes to look out for - here is a list of great coffee shops in Canary Wharf.


Taylor St Baristas - Part of the small UK chain that is gaining momentum against the omni-present international chains, Taylor St Baristas has some great cakes in addition to delicious, bold espresso. The food has a Antipodean tint to it, so expect Anzac biscuits & Lamingtons. Go with either and enjoy that dark, rich cappacinno all the more.

Paul - Paul is also a chain, but one that definitely puts quality highest on it’s priority list! The coffees are always well done, and the pastries are done in a classic (and delicious) French style. Almond croissant & a latte is certain to make you feel awake in the morning!

Café Brera - This one is well known for being a spot where business gets done - your fellow coffee-drinkers are closing deals left & right as you sip your latte. There are also some nice little lunch options like pizza, and your more standard coffeehouse fare. Juices & smoothies are also available for the more health conscious!

Crussh - Want a break from just straight up coffee? Crussh can give you a much healthier boost in the morning with their fresh juices & smoothies! There are also plenty of food options including lovely salads & porridge pots.

Apostrophe - The founders of Apostrophe wanted to find a cafe that had both coffee and food that had great taste and quality, so they decided to start their own. With a friendly staff and fresh items on the menu, you could possibly spend all day here! And don’t forget the great music as well.

Ready to get out there and see Canary Wharf? Find a place to stay at FlatClub!

Tuesday 2 December 2014

Top 5 Restaurants in Canary Wharf

Canary Wharf is full of restaurants - lots of options, and while things can be a bit expensive in this financial centre of London, there are also deals to be had! Whether you're looking for cheese, sandwiches, or Japanese cuisine - Canary Wharf has something for you.


Birley’s Salt Beef Bar - Want big, full-size American style sandwiches? You can make due with this place in Canary Wharf and their piled-high lunch options. The roast pork belly is as good of a choice as the namesake salt beef. Don’t forget your gherkin on the side!

Obika Mozzarella Bar, Canary Wharf - Mozzarella is their specialty, but don’t be fooled into thinking this is just a cheese-shop in disguise! Full service with wine as well, this restaurant has a few options - with a heart of creamy mozzarella. Pasta & salads, as well as pizza that all can circle back around to the freshly-shipped in mozzarella in some form. Great stuff & a fun location!

Roka - Amazing sushi & other modern Japanese dishes, Roka has been a top choice for a long time - and for good reason. The miso black cod is a classic dish that you’d be remiss not to try if you’re heading to Roka, and the desserts are unique & all very good. We also suggest trying to get in for the all-you-can eat Sunday brunch - don’t be scared off by the buffet style dining, it’s extremely well-regarded and your main course is still made to order in the kitchen!

Amerigo Vespucci - Great Italian with a lovely view of Canary Wharf - get a patio seat in nice weather! An independent restaurant here, which isn’t necessarily common, that’s been going since 17 years ago. Short rib risotto is of particular note for us, and so is the scallops & calamari picante dish.

Plateau - Great cocktails & an excellent view - isn’t that what Canary Wharf is all about? Of course the food is nothing to sneeze at either, with modern French cuisine taking the front. Great beef & exciting desserts make this place a good choice for a celebration.

Found something you like? Book a place to stay in Canary Wharf!

Monday 1 December 2014

Milkround

Tuesday 25 November 2014

Festive Meals to Share with Guests

That season is coming up - whether you embrace it fully or just tolerate it, the holidays are here as they are every year.

There are of course good points to the hustle & bustle of the season - what all of the festivities really mean, and of course, the meals. The holidays are all about togetherness & joining up as people in celebration, regardless of our individual differences. What brings people together more than food? The guests you'll be entertaining this year, whether it's through FlatClub or family & friends, will love & appreciate good home cooking. Make a holiday memory that will last forever with your guests by making a special meal with them.


If your guest is from a foreign country, where perhaps the traditions are different, you might consider doing a meal to celebrate the holidays together!

Here are some of the interesting traditional holiday foodstuffs from around the world that you could share with your guest:

Spain
In Spain during the Festive Season, most shops have a bowl with some turron, a nougat like confection and polvorones, crumbly sweet biscuits for clients & shoppers to take a piece. Leaving a bowl of sweets out for a Spanish guest with a Christmas card nearby will certainly be a welcome taste of home, and might be easier to do than roasting an entire traditional lamb with them!

France
In France, Christmas is often celebrated with a Yule Log, or rather a Bûche de Noël , as their dessert. These are getting easier to find in the UK and elsewhere, so buying a yule log in a shop or bakery to add to your festive table for your French guests should be easy - and will be much appreciated. If you’re confident in your cooking & decoration or your guest is willing to helping out, you can also try and make your own Buche de Noel!

Japan
While Christmas isn't traditionally celebrated in Japan, it is acknowledged through gift-giving & fried chicken on December 25th! So if you're hosting a Japanese guest, you could work together on a starter of fried chicken with a Japanese-inspired batter.

Germany
In Germany many different treats are eaten around the holidays, some of which you may not be familiar with - things like stollen (spiced, dense fruit bread), gluwein (hot mulled/spiced wine), and marzipan are all classically served in Germany in winter. With a German guest staying in your home, you could add these sweet treats to your table.

United States
The United States has holiday traditions involving preparations not common in the UK, such as pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and candied yams - sweet potatoes covered in sugar & butter topped with marshmallow and grilled. American guests would be happy to share these traditions with you.

Wherever you are on Earth & wherever your guest may be from, there is a festive meal that is eaten to celebrate getting together with good friends. Sharing something like this with your guests, especially at this time of year, will give you both a great feeling inside & a warm memory to hold forever.

Mouth watering for some great hosting opportunities? Want to make some extra cash during the holidays? Take a look at how to host a lodger during the holidays - or anytime - on FlatClub!

Friday 21 November 2014

Top 5 Parks in Angel

When you're finished going around Angel's delightful coffee shops & the N1 Shopping Centre, take a break at one of the green parks nearby.

Culpeper Park - A lovely park with a children’s area for the kids to play in. There is also some greenery for the adults to just relax in, too!

Barnard Park - Another nice big park that is currently taking in suggestions for improvements; so take a stroll around and see if there is anything you’d like to improve!

Gibson Square Gardens - Gibson Square is a lovely park in Angel, it’s got shrubbery & flowers abounding. A great place to eat your lunch, go on a romantic walk, or take some well behaved children to admire the plant life. A very relaxed square indeed.

Islington Green - A bit of a rarity in London, this was former land owned by a manor that fell into disrepair and therefore, public usage in the olden days. It’s fun to imagine the grazing cattle making their way across the green. There’s also a cinema here where you can catch screenings of movies new & old.

Shoreditch Park - Shoreditch Park is a very large park with some spillage into Angel - you can hoof it over there and enjoy all 47 acres of this well-established park. Surely there is something for everyone - or you can just take a very long walk!

Thursday 20 November 2014

Top 5 Nightlife Spots in Angel

Looking for a way to extend your fun time in Angel? There's still plenty to do in Angel after dark! Take a look at the best nightlife in Angel.
 


The Four Sisters - If you’re a fan of burlesque, this would be a great venue for you - every 1st Thursday of the month they put on quite the show! In addition & on every night, they have a great wine list and excellent cocktail selection. Dim lighting & dark wood makes this a great weekday chill out spot.

Hoxley and Porter - An interestingly themed bar to be sure, this place purports to be the hang-out of a couple of 19th century explorers, by the names of Hoxley & Porter of course. They’ve got an extensive food menu in addition to cocktails, wine, and beer. It’s a nicely put together place & good fun with great drinks.

The LadyBird Bar - Fashioned into a bit of a speakeasy, a cocktail bar, and a live music venue in Angel. It’s open very late until 4 am, and there are massive cocktails that are tasty & varied. There is also a small downstairs dance floor to kick out the jams on.

Slim Jim’s Liquor Store - Kind of a ‘dive bar’ and just the slightest bit scandalous, this is a fun place to go with a group of friends in Angel. Do keep in mind that they enforce a non-business dress code, so maybe change out of your tie before you head over.

Barrio North - Barrio has a cool Latino flavor to it, particularly from Spanish-influenced areas of cities like Miami & NYC. Delightful, well-mixed cocktails are available in a variety of flavors that will suit anyone. They range in price but average at under £10.

Wednesday 19 November 2014

5 Top Restaurants in Angel

There are lots of delicious things to eat in Angel - and a wide variety, too. French, Thai, and classic English pies. Also Afghani food!


M. Manze - First opened in 1902 & still operated by the family that first opened it, M. Manze is a pie & mash shop of the finest order. One of the oldest in London, they at one time specialized in ‘Eel Pie’. Who knows, maybe it will be on the menu when you turn up? If not, there are plenty of other options that may suit you even better. Be sure to try ‘liquor’, it’s a sort of parsley sauce that goes on your pie & mash and is very traditional!

Le Sacre Coeur - A French restaurant in the...’heart’ of Angel, if you pardon the pun, that brings traditional French cuisine in a cosy setting. Classics abound like mussels & steak frites. We recommend the creme brulee to finish things off the right way!

Isarn - Delicious Thai food in a spacious location, Isarn is well-loved by locals jonesing for something spicy & unique. Not content to just offer up the classics like green curry & pad thai (although they do a fine one!) they also have more interesting Thai choices like betel leaves, duck & pomelo.

Gallipolo Cafe & Bistro - This is one of three equally awesome Islington Turkish restaurants under the Gallipoli banner. You simply cannot go wrong with a meze platter as your main or a starter split between friends, and they’ve got some vegetarian options, too! The service also stands out as being good, so bring some friends along and enjoy a big, well-valued meal out.

Afghan Kitchen - Have you ever tried Afghan food? If not, you’re encouraged to try it out here in Angel! Really, even if you have tried Afghan cuisine before, come to Afghan Kitchen as it’s just as tasty as you can get. Spiced yogurt sauces, tender chicken dishes - plus tons of vegetarian options. It’s cash only, so make sure to bring enough to cover some deliciousness.

Tuesday 18 November 2014

5 Best Coffee Shops in Angel

Angel is a lovely neighborhood in Northern London that is quite near the FlatClub office - it's a great spot for food, shopping, and even coffee shops. Have you ever tried bubble tea? You can get an amazing one in Angel - in addition to excellent flat whites & cakes.


The CoffeeWorks Project - One of the stalwarts of Angel, this place is where coffee fans flock to when they’re in N1. Flat whites are probably the top-rated selection, but they do a mean latte & a nice tea selection too. Gluten free brownies for the wheat-intolerant out there, so don’t feel left out!

Euphorium Bakery - They serve good coffee - but way more than that, they have amazing baked goods, with a focus on cakes! It’s not just sweets though, so if you’d like some fresh bread this is the place for you, too. Relaxing with friends here is a popular pastime in Angel. There is a nice airy feel about the place, and even though it gets quite crowded at certain points in the weekend - you can always take out a piece of cake, right?

Kipferl Austrian Coffeehouse - Don’t worry if you can’t pronounce the name, just stick with ordering one of their delightful coffees & you’ll be fine! A very stylish & bright space, this coffee shop down Camden Passage is a great place to wile away the hours and do some people watching in Angel. Not only do they do coffees, they do plenty of amazing Austrian & Central European food & cakes! Including the classic Sachertorte - which we recommend strongly.

Brew Box Bubble Tea - This place is great - if you’ve never tried bubble tea, this will be the perfect one to try! Super friendly staff will explain to you what exactly ‘bubble tea’ is, but a quick primer is as such: delicious, sweet, and creamy iced tea with chewy tapioca pearls at the bottom. So refreshing and lovely on a warm day! Not only that, but you can also grab some Japanese inspired desserts & savouries and relax in the comfortable seating area.

Tinderbox Espresso Emporium - Tinderbox is inside the cool N1 Centre shopping mall in Islington, and it’s open until a staggering (for London) 10:30 pm. This is THE place to go if you need coffee late night. There are a range of drinks however, for the non-caffeinated among you - grab some juice or tea & a panini while you unwind after some serious shopping.

Thursday 13 November 2014

Host An Intern


Hosting an intern is a rewarding experience & welcoming an overseas visitor into your home is a unique opportunity to learn more about the world around you.

Why host an intern with FlatClub? We can guarantee that the interns are verified, coming from top companies around the world, and our customer service places them with interested hosts as soon as possible and works with the host & the intern every step of the way.

Some of the best experiences in life come from interaction with people who are unlike yourself - so hosting an intern from another country will prove to be quite an engaging opportunity! You can learn about their culture, their language, and share your language, culture, and most of all home with them.

Interns also often have extended stays in a city, for the duration of their internship of course, which means more time to get to know & feel comfortable with one another - it also means a longer rental period, more money, and more security knowing that your room is filled.

All you need is a spare room in good condition, an open & curious mind, and a welcoming nature! In return you get knowledge, companionship, some extra money for the holidays or any little occasion, and an experience that will last a lifetime.

We have more information on hosting interns in London, hosting interns in Dublin, and international students in London.

Tuesday 11 November 2014

Earn Money by Renting Out a Room


Still unsure about becoming a host on FlatClub? Let £4,250 worth of tax-free earnings convince you! This is eligible for live-in landlords, which means that you can share a room in your home or an entire floor - all you have to do is maintain residency there. You’re also eligible if you rent out a guest house or run a bed & breakfast. It’s an amazing opportunity to turn your property into cash, whether you rent or own. You can find more info on the official UK government landlord tax allowance page.

The best way to find such lodgers for your property is FlatClub - our guests are verified members of top universities or businesses, in your city on business trips & short courses lasting about 30 days on average. You could build up that income to £4,250 with ease on FlatClub, especially if you take advantage of our LiveDemand service, which allows you as the host to search for the guests that suit you.

This is a great way to earn an extra bit of income for the holiday season. Not only will you make some additional cash to give gifts with, you’ll also be giving a young professional or student the gift of accommodation in your great city - we’ve got lots of interns coming into London and other key European cities, so get in touch with us at host@flatclub.com for more information.

Wednesday 5 November 2014

Top 5 Night Life Spots in South Bank

Want to boogie in South Bank? There are quite a few venues there - and here's our top 5 picks.

Photography courtesy Wikimedia Commons

Blackfriars Wine Bar - Tucked up under a railway arch, Blackfriars Wine Bar is in the perfect spot for a wine bar to be. It has a cosy, comfortable interior, with friendly and knowledgeable staff. If the excellent wine list isn’t enough, they also serve some pretty great food.

The Ministry of Sound - One of the most well-known nightclubs in London, playing some of the best dance music around, is one you don’t want to miss. Especially if you like staying out until 7:00 AM. Who needs sleep when you can dance the night (or morning) away?

Coronet Theatre - A converted cinema, this theatre is really a lovely venue. One of the best clubbing spots in the area, the Coronet brings in plenty of amazing live bands and DJs. They offer an uncomplicated and not outrageously priced drink menu.

Da Vinci’s - This coffee shop and eatery transforms at night to a restaurant with some great live music acts. Open until late several nights a week, you have plenty of opportunity to enjoy the intimate, cozy atmosphere during the day or night.

Call Me Mr. Lucky - Call Me Mr. Lucky is another great secret downstairs bar. You can start on the ground floor with a meal from the restaurant if you like, then flag down a member of staff to tell them the secret phrase… “I’m here to get lucky.” They will then escort you down to the lively bar.

5 Things to Do in South Bank

There's plenty to do in South Bank - the South Bank Centre, for one, usually has some cool stuff going on! Here are a few more things to do in South Bank.

Photography courtesy Wikimedia Commons

Borough Market - For the foodie, Borough Market may just be heaven on earth. Open for lunch Monday and Tuesday, and with a full market Wednesday through Saturday, there is a lot to explore. The sheer amount of choice available can be overwhelming, but definitely worth a couple laps around the food stalls as you decide.

Tate Modern - If you’re a modern art buff, you must go to the Tate Modern. From daily free guided tours to interactive digital displays throughout, there is plenty to see and do. Only special exhibitions have entrance fees.

The London Eye - One of the most iconic tourist experiences in recent London history, The London Eye is a gigantic, slow-moving ferris wheel. During the ride you stand or sit in a glass pod and have one of the best views of the city you could get, unless you happen to have access to a helicopter.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre - Any theatre buff’s ultimate experience would probably be seeing a Shakespeare production as they were meant to be seen. You can have that experience at the rebuilt Globe theatre, situated a mere hundred yards from the original.

Imperial War Museum - The Imperial War Museum covers the stories of people who were impacted by conflict from the First World War up through the present. There are exhibits such as The Trench Experience and the Holocaust Exhibition.

Tuesday 4 November 2014

Top 5 Coffee Shops in South Bank

Need coffee? Sure, we all do. Head to South Bank & get yourself a nice brew & a piece of cake!

Photography courtesy Wikimedia Commons

Konditor & Cook - Delicious & London-famous brownies in addition to high quality espresso drinks? Konditor & Cook can hook you up in South Bank. The brownies are perfectly gooey in the middle with that signature brownie edge, and the rest of the cakes are all lovely too. The coffee is great, too - made all the better by the delicious sweets!

Greensmiths - Greensmiths is a very cool idea - a grocery store, charcuterie, bakery, and of course a barista with gourmet coffee on the tips of their fingers. Kind of an all-in-one stop in South Bank! Pick up some local produce, fresh meat, and take away a deluxe Antica cappuccino.

2 Love Tea & Coffee House - Italian style coffee & fun, Italian style service with great seating along the river. You can even see Parliament while you sip a perfect latte. They also do a Vietnamese iced coffee - made with condensed milk & espresso. A fun place with sweet staff!

Monmouth Coffee - Monmouth espresso is used across London, and there shop in Borough Market is always bumping with people who want to try it from the homebase. It’s considered the best coffee in London, so do be ready for a queue on a weekend morning! They also sell beans, whole or ground, filter coffee and a range of espresso drinks there.

National Theatre Espresso Bar - Delicious cakes & savouries such as soup & bagels in addition to quick espresso drinks. Not a lot of room to sit down and relax here, but great takeaway options - and something quick before you head off to the show!

Monday 3 November 2014

Top 5 Restaurants in South Bank

South Bank is near Waterloo station, and is a great home base for travelling around the rest of London. If you're feeling hungry, it's got you covered there, too!

Photography courtesy Wikimedia Commons

Pieminister - Great British pie and mash, using quality meat and ingredients - what could be better? Eat in or take away, you won’t want to miss a chance to try it if you’re in the area. These great pies can also be found at Borough Market.

Masters Super Fish - Every neighborhood needs a good fish and chips shop, and Masters is one of the best. Fresh, hot fish and chips for a truly great price is something that is difficult to find in central London.

Real Food Festival - Right next to the Southbank Centre & Royal Festival Hall - very near the train station, as a matter of fact - there is an amazing food market every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Find great food traders working in all different genres of tastiness: stuff like Spanish Jamon Iberico, crepes, curry, and even artisan ice lollies (popsicles) - even more to be seen, so check it out!

EV Restaurant - There are a lot of nice options for Turkish food in London - this is one of the best near South Bank! In Borough, it’s a nice sit-down eatery with an expansive menu. You can truly find something for everyone, but we particularly enjoy the Kuzu Koftesi for our main, and Kaymakli Kestane for dessert!

Tsuru - Tsuru has a few branches in London - one of which is in South Bank, lucky for fans of Japanese food there! There options such as sushi, katsu sandwiches, and teriyaki bento. Not too expensive, it’s a good option for quick but unique lunches & relaxing dinners. You’ve got to try the chili oil & if you like it enough, buy yourself a jar!

Wednesday 29 October 2014

5 Neighborhoods for Interns in London




It is a well known fact that London is an expensive area to stay in - while your internship in the city is an amazing opportunity and will be an experience you’ll never forget, you may be wondering where you can possibly afford to stay while here.

We have some advice on areas around London that are affordable, have good transport links, and have at least a few points of interest nearby.

First thing to keep in mind is that most people who live in London, whether it’s long-term or short-term, take full advantage of the great public transport here - like the Underground & the National Rail. It’s uncommon for someone to live within walking distance of their job or university, as this is often prohibitively expensive. That’s the nature of London. The average commute time for a Londoner is about 25 to 30 minutes. So keep your mind open while searching, and you’ll save money by spending just a little bit more time.

Catford
At just about 20 minutes exactly to get into Central London via Charing Cross, Catford is a superb option for those who are working in the very heart of London. Very affordable accommodation, nice variety of restaurants, and a lovely bit of green in Mountsfield Park. We’ve got a lot of hosts & properties in Catford, so take a look & find your new space!

Leyton, Leytonstone
These two areas are another superb choice for commuters working in East London, as it takes about 15 minutes to get into Liverpool Street and the surrounding areas. Not only that, but Leyton & Leytonstone are up-and-coming areas with cafes, restaurants, and green spaces like atheletic fields. We have tons of flats & rooms in Leyton, so grab a bargain as soon as you can.

Holloway Road
Working on the east side of London, more in the City? Holloway Road, or Upper Holloway, may suit you best. Not only is there plenty to do and see as you walk along this shopping road, you can also easily get into Liverpool Street, and therefore the Bank, Moorgate, Aldgate and Old Street areas within about 25 minutes all told. Affordable & populated by other young professionals, this is a good choice for people working near the Silicon Roundabout or the financial center of London. We’ve got properties & rooms on Holloway Road, of course.

Tottenham
The extremely well connected Tottenham is a great homebase for people who plan to travel around London and the even rest of Europe during their internship. Tottenham Hale station is here, and is connected to Stansted Airport by train in just about 40 minutes, and central London within about 20 minutes.The more near you can be to Tottenham Hale, the better for transport - but anywhere in Tottenham means you’ll find some culture and a well priced room or flat. We have inexpensive property in Tottenham for interns, so check it out.

West Hampstead
The entire area of West Hampstead going into Kilburn is a great area for interns in London. With a lot of connections & stations: bus stops, a few tube stations, and an overground - you can get everywhere you need to be from here within about 30 minutes. When you’re not in the office, enjoy the lovely green spaces of the area & the independent cafes. We have lots of property in West Hampstead & Kilburn, so take a look.

Monday 27 October 2014

5 Reasons to Intern Abroad

Here at FlatClub we're firm believers in taking the opportunity, when you can, to do an internship overseas. If you're on the fence, we've got 5 reasons why you should do it that might just have you filling out applications & checking flight prices this afternoon.


1. Set yourself apart from job competition

Competition in the job market, as we all know, is fierce. An easy way to make yourself stand out from the rest of the applicants is with international job experience. Not only is internship in and of itself considered a leg up, when you add in the extra knowledge you'll have surely gained overseas, you'll be irresistible to a hiring manager!

2. Make friends & business contacts across the world
Not only will you make good friends who could last a life time, which is great no matter where they are in the world, but you'll also make business contacts spanning nations. Why limit yourself to one country's job opportunities, when you can be trying your hand across Europe, the Americas, and Asia? By going out an doing an internship overseas, you'll be increasing your job opportunities exponentially.

3. Gain confidence in yourself
You can really test your mettle at an early stage in your job development by interning overseas. This early experience will earn you more confidence and we all know how important confidence is when applying for jobs, or interpersonal relationships. Once you've tested yourself overseas, you'll see that you can overcome so many more challenges!

4. Learn more than you would in your home country
Depending on where you travel, you'll be immersed in not only an entirely different business culture, but also a completely different language. The best way to learn a language is to completely ingratiate yourself within native speakers, and you'll be hard-pressed to find an easier way than to work in a country. Not only that, but you'll learn valuable interpersonal skills about how to make your point clearly, how to adapt, and how to get along with people who may not be similar to you.

5. Travel for travels' sake
Another great reason to intern abroad? Well - traveling, of course! The opportunity to intern abroad is a great one. Think of all the people you know who would love to go overseas, see a new world, gain a new perspective, and learn something. It's a wonderful chance to do all of those things, and be able to come back and brag to everyone at home about what you've seen - and share it with them too, of course.

That's just 5 reasons why interning abroad is such a great idea - there are so many more where that came from! The best way to find out the benefits of internship abroad is by pursuing it, and doing one yourself.

Do you want to do an internship abroad? Join our Google+ community to view the latest internships offered by top companies. FlatClub has student & intern accommodation throughout London, for any budget range, and anywhere you need to be.

Do you have any experiences or benefits with internship abroad that you'd like to share?

Friday 24 October 2014

Top 5 Nightlife Spots in Marylebone

The nightlife in Marylebone is all about cocktails. Every venue is passionate about their drinks - you might just have to try them all to figure out which one is best. We certainly think they are all top notch!


Purl - Purl wants to bring the classic cocktail back to London, and use more than just taste to do it. Using smell, touch, and sight, this nightclub creates an experience. From great seating alcoves to cocktail masterclasses, this is one nightlife spot you won’t soon forget.

Match Bar - Match Bar is versatile, posing as a restaurant during the day and a lively nightlife spot after the sun goes down. It is easy to get to right off of Oxford street, and are quite proud of their cocktail offerings.

Artesian Bar - Open late and with the best bartending staff in the area, Artesian Bar has earned its popularity. The cocktails keep regulars coming back for more and the smart casual dress code keeps the atmosphere classy.

Texture - Perfect for a higher-end night out, Texture offers one of the most extensive champagne lists - by the glass or bottle - in London. Their wine list is also excellent. The food is expertly prepared, and the staff are knowledgeable and helpful, often making great wine pairing suggestions.

The Luggage Room - This club has a roaring 20’s speakeasy style, with a dark wood and leather upholstery interior and is complete with an unmarked black door as an entrance - you must knock for entry. For classy cocktails and friendly service, head to The Luggage Room.

Thursday 23 October 2014

Top 5 Coffee Shops in Marylebone

Skip the crowded, impersonal, large chain coffee shops and head to one of these amazing independent coffee shops and cafes for a much better cup of coffee - or tea! Marylebone is a great place to enjoy your drink, unless you decide to hang out in the coffee shops all day.



Workshop Coffee Co. - If you’re looking for some of the highest quality coffee in London, look no further than Workshop Coffee. They have perfected the combination of fantastic coffee and amazing food. You can enjoy both in the intimate space or grab it all for take away. The regulars swear by Workshop’s blends.

Postcard Teas - If you’re in London and have never had any proper tea - you need to get on over to Postcard Teas. You can taste test the tea before you buy, as well as buy tea accessories, ceramics, and postcards. All of this is wrapped in a shop with a great atmosphere.

Apostrophe - The founders of Apostrophe wanted to find a cafe that had both coffee and food that had great taste and quality, so they decided to start their own. With a friendly staff and fresh items on the menu, you could possibly spend all day here! And don’t forget the great music as well.

D1 Coffee - D1 Coffee has been a popular independent coffee shop since it opened in 2013, and for good reason. They are passionate about preparing their Monmouth coffee, and regulars have stated they have the best espresso in London!

Gino’s Coffee Bar - Located right across from the Marlyebone tube station, Gino’s has developed a loyal following. They serve delightful coffee you can take away, but many prefer to sit in - it is a popular breakfast spot. Friendly management and service add to the atmosphere.

Wednesday 22 October 2014

Top 5 Restaurants in Marylebone

Marylebone has a great diverse range of restaurants to choose from, no matter what time of day it is. From Indian to amazing burgers, you’ve got a decision to make for your next lunch! They’re all perfectly placed within a few minutes’ walk from some of London's greatest attractions and shopping spots as well.


Roti Chai - A unique little Indian restaurant that is slightly hidden off of Oxford Street, Roti Chai is a hit with newcomers and regulars alike. With friendly staff and a not-so-typical but definitely delicious menu, this is a place you won’t want to miss out on.

Patty & Bun - A simple name like Patty & Bun is a bit of a giveaway for the type of food they serve - but they definitely go above and beyond expectations for the taste and quality of their burgers. Be sure to go with an appetite - the portions are more than generous.

Le Gavroche - This Michelin starred French restaurant is so popular, you must call to reserve a table months in advance. However, if you want the ultimate fine dining experience, the three month wait will be worth it. Le Gavroche was a 2013 Traveller’s Choice winner on TripAdvisor.

The Golden Hind - With a simple menu and decor, The Golden Hind sticks to what it knows - fish and chips. They serve up a perfectly cooked and crispy cod to both locals and tourists.

Blandfords Café - With a great family atmosphere and plenty of choices on the menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Blandfords Cafe is not one you want to miss out on. They serve some great Ily coffee, as well as British and Italian cuisine.

Monday 20 October 2014

Top 5 Things to Do in Marylebone

Everywhere you turn, Marylebone has culture, museums, and well-known tourist attractions. From art and concert halls to museums and wax figures, you definitely won’t get bored in this neighborhood! It might take you a few days to get to everything on the list, so take your time (and get a good dose of caffeine from the coffee shops in the area for energy).


The Wallace Collection - A historic London townhouse is filled with a stunning collection of French 18th century paintings, as well as furniture and porcelain. While each display is great, the great gallery is truly breathtaking. As a bonus, the Collection also has its own restaurant.

Sherlock Holmes Museum - Fans of Sherlock and Watson will want to check out the Sherlock Holmes Museum. 221b Baker Street might be one of the most famous addresses in London, thanks to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The property is transformed to look as Sherlock’s fictional home would have appeared.

Madame Tussauds - Madame Tussauds is possibly the most famous wax museum one could walk through. If walking among life-sized celebrities made out of wax is your thing, then you will most likely have fun taking pictures with your favorite star’s likeness.

Wigmore Hall - If you’re looking for some live music more along the lines of classical soloists or jazz ensembles, Wigmore Hall is the perfect, intimate venue in which to enjoy it. It has an elegant interior to go along with the great acoustics.

Handel House Museum - Lovers of classical music will want to put Handel House Museum on their list of things to do. The rooms in this house are set up similarly to the Sherlock Holmes Museum - they are intended to look as they had when Handel lived and composed in the rooms, with a few changing exhibits.

Friday 17 October 2014

5 American Things to See in London

London gets a lot of tourists each year - 15 million, to be exact! Many of those tourists come from the USA, as their shared history & language make it an easy transition and a place of reflection for many Americans.

It may be of interest for American tourists in London, or American expats in London to see some sights that will remind them of home; I don't just mean the McDonald's at Liverpool Street, either!

If you're an American in London looking for something familiar, or if you're just curious what sort of United States artifacts are about in the UK, here's a list of 5 cool places to visit!


1. John F Kennedy Bust on Marylebone Road - This memorial to the late President JFK was unveiled in 1965, and was sponsored by 50,000 Sunday Telegraph readers, pledging for £1 each. It's a lovely way for one of America's most well regarded presidents to be memorialized abroad.

2. John F Kennedy Memorial in Runymede - Runymede itself is a historic location for the entire world - it's the place where King John sealed the Magna Carta in 1215. It's a beautiful memorial, with stairs designed by Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe who worked from the angle that life is a journey. 60,000 granite steps go through the well-preserved woodlands of Runymede, which atop in a clearing there is a large stone inscribed with words from JFK's inaugural address, then finally a paved pathway that leads to a beautiful clearing and a superb view of Runymede.

3. American Museum in Britain - An entire American museum in Britain? It happened, and it's in beautiful Bath. If you're a visitor to London, we highly recommend a day trip out to Bath as they have many wonderful museums that are a bit more off-the-path than London ones, and just as good. This museum focuses mostly on American art & design, with a particular eyes towards folk art. There are also US Civil War re-enactors during the summer.

4. Benjamin Franklin House - If you can believe it, this is the last remaining home of the Benjamin Franklin, one of America's most influential founding fathers. The homes he had lived in prior to and after this one have all been torn down in various reconstructions, wars, and accidents. Make sure you pre-book online as they limit the number of visitors who can come through at a time so that every guest can have a nicer experience! Enjoy the guided tour through the house by a skilled actress in period costume.

5. The Mayflower Pub - A nice pub in London all the same, this one also has great historical ties. This is where the Mayflower was docked before it took off for the US! Well, this was it's first mooring in the UK - of course it stopped again at Plymouth before it left for the new world. Due to this awesome historical tie, it's the only place licensed in the UK to sell US postage. Interesting, huh?

Are you a recent American expat to London? Take a look at our relocation guide for advice on how to adjust!

Wednesday 15 October 2014

Accommodation for Conferences in London: Disrupt 2014


If you follow the startup scene, or are a tech lover in general you've probably heard about TechCrunch Disrupt, TC's dedicated technology conference with a special focus on burgeoning startups.


We're lucky here in London that this year, for the first time ever, Disrupt is taking place in our fair city! Old Billingsgate is a great venue - and is actually quite convenient to our offices here at FlatClub, as well.

Disrupt is a cultural event for startups, and lifelong friendships & business alliances are forged here every year. FlatClub is a proud partner of Disrupt in London this year. That means that we gave free tickets out to hosts who opted to give free accommodation for conference participants for the dates of Disrupt. Many Battlefield participants have taken advantage of this cool offer.

There have been some amazing people and businesses to come out of Startup Battlefield in the past: including Yammer, Mint, Enigma, & Alfred. Lots of people attend Disrupt to network, recruit, and bounce ideas off of each other.

If you're already going to Disrupt, we've got another deal for you: 50% off of your booking fee for any accommodation you've booked through FlatClub. Just register through our Disrupt portal and we'll get you set up. Still not found a flat for the conference? Instead of staying in overpriced hotel rooms we can help you find great, alternative accommodation for conferences!

We're happy to be bringing people together who have a common interest - an interest they share with our team, as well. New technology, startups, and entrepreneurship; all these things are part of the fabric of Disrupt and part of the fabric of FlatClub.

Friday 10 October 2014

BusinessBecause Asks....What Will the World be Like in 2050?


Our friends at BusinessBecause are running an excellent survey & competition sponsored by GMAC - the creators of the GMAT exam. MBA students & MBA applicants, predict where you think the world of work & offices will be in 2050 and you just might win $1,000 cash & a mentoring chat with a senior partner at Bain & Company!

Within 300 words, describe what day-to-day life in an office will be like in 2050. Will you be arriving via flying car? Will you arrive to an office at all, or will telecommuting be the new normal? Will business as we know it still be chugging along - if not, what will be different?

The very best entry will win the cash prize & chat with a partner. The next 10 best entries will win free copies of the FT Business Book of the Year, "The Everything Store" about Amazon & Jeff Bezos, and will have the opportunity to publish their thoughts on the future via BusinessBecause.

Make sure to take the survey as well, it's an opportunity to lend your voice to the future & change the way business is done!

Thursday 9 October 2014

Top 5 Nightlife Spots in Greenwich


Whether you’re looking for a laid back night out or one you will never forget - there are great nightlife spots in Greenwich. The new, well known O2 is in the neighborhood, as well as a few more local venues.

The O2 - London’s best new, modern concert venue has made a big splash in recent years, drawing in all of the best live music and other acts. With plenty of coffee shops and restaurants on the premises and nearby, you could say at the O2 all day - you can even pay to climb it!

Up The Creek - There are no shortages of comedy clubs in London, but it is always a slight gamble to go to a new spot. Up the Creek’s decor is a bit bare bones, but they focus on bringing in the quality comedy acts.

Mordens Wine Bar - Quite possibly one of the most versatile wine bars in London, Mordens has an excellent wine list and a laid back, subtly decorated area to enjoy your selection in. There is also a cocktail lounge and a more lively downstairs bar.

Oliver’s - Directly opposite Greenwich Theatre, Oliver’s is a gem of a live music venue and wine bar that is a delightful place to relax for a few hours. Between the cosy interior, ample drinks menu, and the excellent live jazz playing, you might find it difficult to leave.

Davy’s Wine Vault - With a wine list of over 100 selections (plus a Davy’s shop for even more bottles next door), it is the perfect place to try a few new wines. They have a great British menu to go with your selection, and a cosy interior with friendly staff.

Wednesday 8 October 2014

Top 5 Things to Do in Greenwich

Greenwich and its surrounding areas tend to revolve around all things nautical - whether it be museums, restaurants, or other attractions along the Thames. But even if you don’t hear the call of the sea, there’s something here for you to do as well!



Greenwich Market Who doesn’t love a good, diverse market? Greenwich Market is the place to go in London for handmade items such as crafts and artwork. If you search diligently, you might even come across a few hard to find collectibles and antiques.

Meantime Brewing Company - As one of Europe’s leading craft breweries, Meantime is in a great position to have a truly enjoyable brewery tour. They certainly deliver. With a fantastic menu and a tour guide with a great sense of humor, you will be entertained as you are educated about the process. As a bonus, there is an attached restaurant!

The Queen’s House - This gorgeous 17th century house originally belonged to Henrietta Maria, wife of King Charles I. It now houses a beautiful art collection, in addition to being a great example of the architecture of the time.

The Cutty Sark - If you have an interest in anything and everything nautical, you must visit the Cutty Sark. The last surviving tea clipper is here for you to enjoy - have you ever wondered what a 19th century ship looked like? Well now you can find out by exploring the ship itself, as well as walking under it to see it from all sides!

National Maritime Museum - Possibly the largest museum of its kind, the National Maritime Museum holds more than 2 million items including maritime art, cartography, manuscripts, ship models, navigational instruments, and astronomy instruments.

Tuesday 7 October 2014

Top 5 Coffee Shops in Greenwich

You might be a little further away from the hipster coffee scene in Greenwich, but that doesn't mean you won’t be able to find some good coffee and tea. We have a great list below of some independent cafes and bakeries from which to get your caffeine fix.



Royal Teas - Royal Teas is off the beaten tourist path, with a cosy and intimate interior. Coffee may not be in the name, but it is not an afterthought. You can enjoy your delightful coffee along with a well-made breakfast, brunch, or lunch.

Paul Rhodes Bakery - Fair trade coffee and tea, accompanied by some of the best bakery-fresh breads, sandwiches, cakes, and other sweets - what could be better? Paul Rhodes is the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee… and then stay through lunch for more of the amazing food offerings.

Red Door - Serving up some of the always delicious Monmouth Coffee, Red Door is an intriguing part-coffee shop-part-gallery in central Greenwich. The cosy interior is complemented by the use of vintage china cups, and the presence of sandwiches, scones, and vegan, wheat-, and gluten-free cakes.

Koffees and Kream - The light, airy space is chic and inviting, and makes you want to stay and drink your coffee for awhile instead of just grabbing a quick take away cup. There is also the added enticement of well-prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner on offer.

Pavilion Tea House - Located in the pretty Greenwich Park area, the Pavilion Tea House is an airy octagonal structure, serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch. If you’re in the area and coffee is what you’re after - they serve fair trade, artisan Union Hand roasted coffee.

Monday 6 October 2014

Top 5 Restaurants in Greenwich

Greenwich - the place where time is born! Just a little ways out of Central London, you may feel transported back in time yourself as you take in the lovely architecture & scenic greenery of Greenwich.


Feeling hungry? You've got options. From the traditional fish and chips - made even more appropriate by the neighborhood’s nautical trend - to Michelin rated restaurants, there is something in the area for everyone. Add a lovely walk along the Thames before or after lunch or dinner, and you’ve got yourself a perfect afternoon.

Goddards at Greenwich - This family-run restaurant has been serving traditional British pie and mash since 1890. If you’re looking for authentic cuisine, this is it. The regulars and newcomers alike are impressed with the quality pies - available with steak, chicken, and vegetarian options.

Inside - Mentioned in the 2014 Michelin Guide, this modern European restaurant serves up top-notch cuisine by the main chefs - Guy Awford and Brian Sargeant. The fresh, quality food is accompanied by a comfortable atmosphere and friendly staff.

Bianco 43 - Bianco 43 is proud of being the most authentic Italian pizzeria in London. You can find an array of quality pizza and traditional Italian cuisine on the menu.

The Golden Chippy - If you’re looking for a great authentic fish and chips experience, head on over to The Golden Chippy. They serve up a perfectly cooked and crispy cod to both locals and tourists.

Zaibatsu - If you like great Japanese fusion cuisine, you might consider the hidden gem that is Zaibatsu. From noodles to sushi to salads, they serve a bit of everything - and it is all prepared and served by a friendly staff.

The Hill - Mediterranean cuisine slightly out of the way of the foot traffic in Greenwich - you won’t regret looking for this hidden gem. The owners are passionate about food from all over the world - so you might see some interesting variety.

Friday 3 October 2014

LBS Conferences this October

Here at FlatClub we love all of our communities - our clubs, our newly opened Google+ page, and of course all of our users, period!

There is another community that we’re quite fond of - and that’s the London Business School community! Not only is it the largest club on our site, it’s also our birthplace. Given our connections, we like to keep up with cool events happening at LBS.

Coming up this month (Oct 18th to Oct 19th) is the China Business Forum, hosted by the biggest Chinese student association in LBS. It’s been going for 3 years, and it’s a great way to learn about Sino-European business through mutual understanding and direct conversations. Business leaders from both China and Europe will be in attendance. Find more information here, and of course find accommodation on FlatClub through the LBS Club network!

In early November there are a couple of exciting events, including EurOUT, a special forum for LGBT students & alumni of LBS to discuss ideas related to the community & network in an inclusive, welcoming environment. Also exciting is that for the first time in EurOUT’s history there will be a job fair before the official forum! Lots of great companies will be represented there, including Bain & BCG. It all starts November 7th and ends November 9th - if you need accommodation we can help out with discounted prices for LBS students & alums! For more info on the event see their official page.

Also happening through November 7th til the 9th is NOVA, an annual conference which hosts key representatives from Italy, and the international business community. This conference is a unique opportunity for Italian MBA alumni & students to meet and discuss opportunities for Italy within the global economy. This is the first time that the event has been organized in Europe and hosted by the LBS’ Italian students. This will make it easier for business school alumni to attend, as many of them reside in Europe. If you’re an alumni in Europe, find accommodation here in London through FlatClub!


In late November The Global Energy Summit will occur - LBS Energy Club's annual flagship event. In it’s 11th year, GES has provided an unrivalled forum for political, academic, and business thought-leaders to explore & debate the future of the energy industry. Coming from abroad? We’ve got accommodation options. For more info on the event, see the official site.