You’ve chosen the country, the town, the studying place, but now you have to choose the type of place where you’ll spend the upcoming months of your exchange. The doubt is natural, because, after all, the setting is basic for your adaptation to a new country. Yes, your new home will, literally, shelter your feelings and thoughts concerning your life choice of venturing into a new country. Comfort and identification are essential to your well-being and the success of your exchange. But, before choosing, you must reflect on your priority: comfort, safety, freedom, independence, companionship and other features peculiar to each type of dwelling.
The most popular type in an exchange is being hosted by a local family, pre-determined by the agency in charge of your trip. In this kind of accommodation, the main points are: the welcome and sense of safety (ideal for younger people) and the full-time contact with the local language, culture, habits and cooking. But there are setbacks: be careful to respect the rules of the house, such as curfews, tasks that have been pre-arranged with the family, and a limit to the number of visitors you receive, if such is the case.
For those who are more independent, the option is renting a small apartment. Ideal if you are staying for a longer time in the new town, for higher- level courses, for instance, and you need comfort, privacy and freedom, this is the best option, although not the best for your pocket. However, be it to study in peace, to rest after a long day, or to be free to receive guests, having your own place, with your own rules, is fundamental. The negative point, besides the expense, is losing the 24-hour contact with the local language and culture when you’re at home.
Finally, why not consider an intermediate solution? Between living with a family and living alone, lies a third option: a student residence. With rules that are more flexible, this type of dwelling brings young people together, enabling cultural exchanges and the possibility of making new friends. Usually located near study centers, these residences offer a great cultural and social experience. After all, sharing a home with people from different backgrounds is a true challenge and an exercise in responsibility, patience and respect. For those who are more reserved, the best option would be an individual bedroom, sharing the common areas, such as kitchen, bathroom and sitting-room. If, on the other hand, you want to save money, and don’t mind rooming with strangers, choose the shared bedroom version.
