Young people who go on an exchange with a student budget often choose shared flats as accommodation, since the monthly cost is usually more affordable. In addition, a plus is that your roommates will surely be from different parts of the world, so you can delve into their cultures while you practice your English even more by communicating with them.
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Plymouth
Here are some of the pros and cons of living in shared flats in this English city:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Plymouth
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You will be able to choose between spare rooms in private flats and others that are part of residences. The latter can offer facilities such as leisure rooms with pool tables, a shared dining room, study rooms, and a gym, among others.
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The University of Plymouth is located next to the city centre, so you will have the possibility of living near the institution and the most popular entertainment venues if you choose neighbourhoods such as Beaumont, Barbican or University.
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Plymouth
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Many of the flats in student residences do not have a shared lounge, but they do have a kitchen. For this reason, you should check if the residence has other common rooms that you can go to, to have more spaces in which to spend your free time.
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You have to look carefully if the costs of the services are included in the rental price or not because if they are not you will have to add an extra at the end of the month. This can add a lot to the cost, especially in the winter months when the heating is on.
Apps for your international exchange in Plymouth
For your international exchange experience to be the best possible, we suggest that you make use of the different available apps. These have a wealth of information on the paperwork you need to do, the university and life in Plymouth. For example, one of the data is that the city is usually very safe, so you will be able to walk and enjoy all its corners with peace of mind and on your own if you feel like it.
How to meet people in Plymouth
It is easy for you to meet other students in the city, especially if you share a flat with other young people. However, here are some other convenient options through which you can make friends during your exchange:
Student Associations in Plymouth
The city's universities have a large number of clubs and associations that you can join according to your interests to meet like-minded people. For example, you can be part of associations from different fields of study (biomedicine, geography, mathematics, etc.), various sports (tennis, soccer, rowing, badminton, hockey, trampoline, etc.), and other interests such as choir, LGBT+, Harry Potter, literature, Anime, among others.
Facebook groups for international students in Plymouth
The University of Plymouth has several groups on this social network that you can join to be in contact with other young people and answer any questions you may have. One of these groups is the International Student Society (ISP), where you will be able to meet other young people who will be at the university at the same time as you.
Whatsapp groups for international students in Plymouth
In addition to WhatsApp groups and other messaging services such as Telegram and Discord servers where you can connect with other international students who go to Plymouth for an exchange. You can meet young people here before you arrive in the city.
Tips for living in a shared apartment in Plymouth
Below are some tips to keep in mind when living in shared flats in the English city:
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Plymouth is a city where many students go, both to learn more English and to party. You have to talk with your roommates about the possibility of having parties or gatherings at home, so they respect everyone's schedules and times.
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Take advantage of your stay in the city to explore other cities in the UK (there are several bus companies) and also the nearby natural areas, such as Dartmoor National Park.