Living in shared apartments in Porto is an excellent option for students as it helps them make friends, grow independently, and save money. Remember that it's best if your roommates have habits that match yours to avoid any potential issues from living together.
Here’s what you need to know about living with roommates in Porto:
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Porto
Here are some of the pros and cons of sharing accommodation in Porto:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Porto
- You’ll live in a multicultural setting, getting to know different cultures and lifestyles up close. Plus, if you share with a Portuguese roommate, you can pick up the language!
- If your roommates have similar interests, like windsurfing or running, you can enjoy these activities together.
- Sharing the cost of rent and utility bills with roommates means you'll have extra money to explore the city and its surroundings.
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Porto
- While the exteriors of buildings in Porto are often charming, some shared apartments can be a bit old and run down.
- Affordable flats might be located in areas with steep slopes, making daily access to certain areas challenging.
- Your room is the only space that’s fully yours, so think carefully about whether you want a single or shared room.
Erasmus Apps for your exchange programme in Porto
Erasmus+ apps provide a range of resources for your exchange to Porto. These include instructions for necessary procedures before, during, and after your Erasmus, help with subject validation, access to different experiences and advice from other students, as well as discounts on various services.
How to meet people in Porto
Here are some ways to meet other young people in Porto, aside from bonding with your flatmates:
Student associations in Porto
The most popular association for Erasmus students in this Portuguese city is ESN Porto. Volunteer students help newcomers integrate into the city by organising activities like international dinners, quiz nights, bar parties, affordable trips, and sporting events.
Facebook groups for Erasmus students in Porto
International students often join Facebook groups like ESN Porto to stay updated on activities and events. There are also groups divided by academic year, such as “Erasmus Porto 2022/2023,” to connect with peers who will be in Porto at the same time.
WhatsApp groups for Erasmus students in Porto
Associations, Facebook groups, and individual students often create WhatsApp groups for instant connection. This is a great way to meet new people in Porto with similar interests, join existing plans, or organise your own activities.
Tips for living in a shared apartment in Porto
Here are some tips for living in a shared flat in Porto:
- Portuguese people are very friendly and helpful, making it easy to feel integrated, especially if any of your roommates is a local.
- Going to the beach is fun, but bringing sand back into the apartment isn't. Make sure to clean off your things before entering the apartment or use a designated spot to keep sand out of your living space.