Lost--Homeless in Beijing

[jinjin]

Ok, my situation isn't as dire as the topic. Basically, I don't know anything about Beijing or the area and I'm moving there for 1-2 years at the end of August to attend BeiDa.

BeiDa is putting me up in temporary housing so I can see the apt in person before I sign a lease. As it's getting close to my departure, I'm getting a little anxious.

First, what area does everyone suggest I live if I am attending BeiDa. I don't mind biking 1km or so, but I don't want to live too far. Where are other students attending BeiDa living? I'm not familiar with any of the areas or how Beijing is divided up...I know, I should really get on that (hence the new thread ;) )

Second, BeiDa said there were furnished apartments but then didn't give me too much info. Is this true? Are there apts where I can move in with utilities, cable, furniture already set up or is this going to be extremely expensive? If there aren't furnished apts, any suggestions on a quick, cheap way to get furniture and how difficult is it to hook up utilities/cable?

Third,I guess this is the most important, is what areas are safe and what areas should I stay away from?

Fourth, how does apartment hunting work? Is there a lease with deposit? I think BeiDa requires that the landlord and I register with the school to make sure it's legit.

Lastly, any pointers would be very very appreciated!!

[doumeizhen]

I'm moving back to Beijing on Monday, and am tired and stressed so this is short and I apologize. To set your mind at ease:

1. Haidian (海淀) : Many students live in the Wudaokou (五道口) so its easy to find places. When searching for apartments, you can search with beida and it might list apartments nearby.

2. Most apartments come furnished, though sometimes sparsely. Desk, wardrobe, tv, couch seem pretty standard. Generally AC too. Buildings are heated as a whole, so that is nothing to worry about (though you will generally pay for it, and its not much). Getting DSL is not hard, but my guy didn't speak Chinese. A Chinese friend helped me trouble shoot it. Your landlord could help you, and until its set up, you can use 9660 I think to dial into the internet. Just make up a username and password. it doesn't matter.

3. Its generally pretty safe, but I can't comment specifically. Anyone else?

4. In almost all cases I have paid a deposit of 1 months rent, and 3 months rent at a time.I don't know about registering with the school, but you have to register with the local police station. Check out the classifieds here, www.thatsbj.com, www.zhantai.com (in Chinese) and http://house.sina.com.cn/ (in Chinese).