Ah, the ever-elusive home-away-from-home. Whether you’re studying abroad, interning, or just on an adventure in a new country, here are some things to consider as start your housing search…..
Know Yourself
Okay, so you might not actually need to do any serious soul-searching, but travel requires independence and a clear head. Before you begin your search, think about how you like to live: do urban areas stress you out, or energise you? Do you want to live alone, with other Americans, or with locals? Do you want to be close to the major sites, or would you rather live in a more residential area? Think about what you want to take away from this experience, and then reflect on the housing options that will get you there.
Step Outside Your Comfort Zone
Knowing yourself means knowing your comfort zone: the next step is to test your limits. Sure, you might love living alone, but is your number one priority to learn a new language? If so, you’ll learn more from local roommates than any language class. Are you a party animal at home, and ready for some relaxation? Take this time to settle down a little, learn the local routines, and consider renting an apartment away from tourist destinations. Whatever you choose, travel is a vital opportunity to see a new place, as well as discover a new side of yourself. You can make that happen by thinking through your housing options before booking and doing your research to ensure you get the best travel jobs going!
Research the Local Culture
This is important regardless of your housing situation, but especially important if you’re going to be sharing an apartment with locals. In Spain, for example, most partying takes place in bars or clubs, so if you love entertaining friends and throwing huge house parties, you might want to consider living alone (and checking with the neighbours first!). Not sure where you want to go yet? Check out some of the Top 10 coolest neighbourhoods in the world for 2016.
“Don’t Underestimate The Importance of A Great Space!”
Even if you have the feeling you’ll be spending a lot of time at school, travelling, or exploring your new city, travel can be stressful and lonely at times, and the best way to recharge is to have an inspiring space of your own. Plus, you’ll feel more like a local if you aren’t living out of a suitcase. Finding the perfect apartment doesn’t need to break the bank, but definitely take time in exploring your options and finding a place that you can call home.
Verified Housing Means Less Stress
Most cities will have housing sites, but they can be full of scams, shady landlords, hidden fees, or apartments that fall through at the last minute. Based in New York City, Study Abroad Apartments is a great resource for finding your perfect home-away-from-home. SAA verifies all listings and accommodation providers and offers fully furnished apartments all over the world. Booking an apartment through SAA means that you won’t have to worry about last-minute changes or arriving to an apartment that looks completely different from its listing.
As you start planning your travels,take 5 Things to Know Before Finding Your Next Home Abroad into consideration to guarantee that you’ll find not only a great place to live , but also the perfect launching pad for your new adventures. For more information on housing options abroad check out our friends at studyabroadapartments.com. Not quite ready to go house hunting yet? Sign up to Jetsetters today for free and check out some of the best travel jobs!
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