Flatshare in Ottawa

Students often choose to live in shared flats, as Ottawa's nightlife scene is fairly quiet. In this way, by living with roommates you have the opportunity to have more meetings and activities in the apartment so that the exchange is more lively.

Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Ottawa

Still haven’t decided which is the ideal type of accommodation for you? Below, we list some characteristics of shared flats, so you can determine if it is the best for your stay:

Advantages of sharing a flat in Ottawa

• You can take advantage of the savings on rent to explore Ottawa to the fullest and to get to know Canada as much as possible thanks to the good connection it has with the rest of the country. Don't forget to visit Niagara Falls!
• You can choose the accommodation that has a convenient location for you, both near your university and the city centre. Some preferred neighbourhoods to live in by young people are usually downtown Ottawa, Riverside Park, Golden Triangle and Little Italy.

Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Ottawa

• Winter in this city is usually very harsh, even reaching temperatures of -30ºC during the day. For this reason, it is convenient that you reach an agreement on the use of heating with your flatmates, so that everyone is comfortable in the apartment.
• In many cases, student residences have a minimum rental requirement of 8 months, so it may not be suitable for you.

Apps for your international exchange in Ottawa

The apps that you can download will make your exchange easier, being able to access a large amount of relevant information. For example, you will be able to read instructions for some procedures that you have to do at the university, as well as information that will make life in the city more enjoyable. One of these facts is that you should buy a second-hand bicycle to move from one place to another while enjoying Ottawa. Of course, if you want to use it in winter, you have to make sure you wrap up warm to combat the cold.

How to meet people in Ottawa?

We give you some ideas of alternatives to meet people in the Canadian capital:

Student associations in Ottawa

Among the many societies and clubs that you can join in this Canadian city, there are those created specifically for international students. Thanks to them, you will be able to connect with young people who are in the same situation as you and who want to share moments and activities to integrate.

Facebook groups for international students in Ottawa

Both societies and international student offices at universities often create groups on this social network so that young people can keep up with everything that is happening and what is planned in this city. For example, you can join the “Uottawa international students association” at the University of Ottawa or the “Carleton 2022 - International & Exchange Students in Ottawa” at Carleton University.

WhatsApp groups for international students in Ottawa

The best thing you can do is join the WhatsApp or Telegram groups that you will find. Many of them are created by societies or Facebook groups, and others are created by the students themselves. They are a good option to be in spontaneous contact with other young people.

Tips for sharing a student flat in Ottawa

Keep in mind these recommendations when living in shared flats in this Canadian city:

• If you like to do outdoor activities and enjoy nature, you will be able to choose an apartment that has good access to one of Ottawa's rivers and parks. The city stands out for the quality of outdoor life it offers.
• in the student flats, since the nightlife in the city is quite calm. You have to take this into account when you move into the apartment so that everyone agrees when it comes to visits.

Frequently asked questions about sharing a flat in Ottawa