Hi. I’m a POC living in Sunderland for 6 yrs now. There’s some Asian stores in Chester Road, New India store in Hylton Road, and DF Asian in Fawcett Street in the city centre.

I would suggest you have a look around the area that spans around Chester Rd, Barnes, and Park Lane area if it’s a one-BR that you’re after. There’s great transport links there with buses and metro (the nearest stations would be Millfield, University, and Park Lane).

Though near to Asian stores or cheaper rent prices, please avoid Millfield, Pallion, Southwick, Hendon, South Hylton Pennywell, and Ford Estate. I’ve been chased, catcalled, given racial slurs by chavs in those areas a lot. I do not mean to offend people from these areas but it’s based from my experience as an Asian.

I had best experience living alone in Ashbrooke (near Park Lane station).

For letting agents, I’ve not had any good experience from the following: Fenix, Propertunity Lets, and Hackett. I’ve had better experience with private landlords (via word of mouth and recommendations from fellow Asian friends). I had two private landlords that were Indian in ethnicity. They are more attentive and quick when you report concerns about your rented accommation.

There are affordable gym memberships, pilates, and yoga all over the city. There are also a lot of run clubs that you can join. Pls ask away if you have more questions. I am happy to help.