Laura's place seems far out yet Balham has everything one needs and more:) There a quaint little market with veggies and flowers, two supermarkets, some nice restaurants and eateries, an H&B, Oxfam and nature store, a pound shop and lots more. It's fairly easy to find and on the ground floor. Laura herself is a genuine treasure, a beautiful and warm character in a sometimes cold city. The room is adequate with a comfy bed, wifi and a cuppa:)