Gothenburg's multicultural environment and the University of Gothenburg, one of Sweden's largest universities, attract many international students eager to experience the quality education and Nordic culture, meaning your roommates will likely be from diverse backgrounds.
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Gothenburg
Here are some of the pros and cons of living in shared flats in this Swedish city:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Gothenburg
- Sharing a flat reduces your monthly costs compared to renting a full apartment. This leaves more room in your budget to enjoy the city’s rich cultural and entertainment offerings, including museums, concerts, nightclubs, and a variety of local restaurants.
- Spare rooms located in neighbourhoods further from the centre might be part of apartments or houses, which can include perks like a garden or a spacious terrace, perfect for enjoying good weather, so check out the details of the listings!
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Gothenburg
- The demand for shared flats often exceeds the supply, so it's crucial to start your search early. This is also true for applying to student residences in Gothenburg, where long waiting lists are common.
- While Gothenburg's winter temperatures are milder than other parts of Sweden, typically ranging from 0º and -2ºC, it's essential to agree with your roommates on heating usage to maintain a comfortable temperature in your flat.
Erasmus Apps for your exchange programme in Gothenburg
Erasmus+ apps are incredibly useful for planning your exchange. They provide valuable information, including tips for saving money in the city. For example, consider using Gothenburg's rental bicycles instead of public transport during summer and spring, cooking at home and using the university's microwaves to save on food, and shopping at local markets rather than supermarkets for cheaper groceries.
How to meet people in Gothenburg
Here are some ways to meet people in this Swedish city:
Student associations in Gothenburg
Joining ESN Göteborg is highly recommended by many students. This association helps you meet international students in similar situations. They organise various activities like museum visits, movie nights, adventure excursions to the Norwegian Fjords, salsa classes, cafe meetups, and themed parties.
Facebook groups for Erasmus students in Gothenburg
Facebook groups are a great way to connect with other students in Gothenburg. These groups are usually organised by academic year, so you can meet other students who will be in Gothenburg at the same time as you. The ESN Facebook group also posts a calendar of planned activities, so you won’t miss out on any fun events.
WhatsApp groups for Erasmus students in Gothenburg
WhatsApp groups provide a more direct way to connect with other students in Gothenburg. These groups are great for introducing yourself, meeting others with similar interests, and sharing experiences.
Tips for living in a shared apartment in Gothenburg
Keep these tips in mind when living in this Swedish city:
- Young people often enjoy exploring the islands near Gothenburg, accessible by ferry from the city port. Also, don’t miss the chance to visit the forests and nature reserves around the city!
- Some landlords prefer students who plan to stay for an extended period rather than just a single semester. Make sure to check the entry requirements for each apartment carefully.