As in other cities in the United States, rent in the capital is generally high cost. For this reason, young people on an international exchange choose to live in shared flats with other students. In this way, the cost of rent and utility bills are divided among all, making the monthly expense more affordable.
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Washington DC
The following are some of the most relevant aspects of life in shared flats in the US capital:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Washington DC
- You can take advantage of the extra in your budget and geographical location from the city to visit other well-known cities in the country, such as Philadelphia, New York and Pittsburgh.
- You will be able to choose a spare room that is in a neighbourhood with a convenient location for you, close to your university and the most popular entertainment venues. Some areas preferred by students every year are Downtown, Georgetown and Adams Morgan.
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Washington DC
- Some cheap rooms are not furnished, so you must incur more expenses when entering the apartment.
- If you choose to live in a shared room, it will be difficult for you to have a moment just for yourself, since all the spaces in the apartment will be shared.
Apps for your international exchange programme in Washington DC
There are several apps available to make all phases of your exchange to the US city as simple as possible. In them, you will be able to access a large amount of varied information regarding the process, including some data and advice about life in Washington DC. One of these recommendations is, that you remember that many of the city's museums are free, such as the famous Natural History Museum and the Air and Space Museum. Take advantage of your stay to visit them if you are interested since they are world-renowned museums.
How to meet people in Washington DC?
In this section, we tell you about some of the ways you have to connect with other young people during your exchange in the capital of the United States.
Student Associations in Washington DC
Most universities have student societies, clubs, and organizations where you can meet people with similar. There are also international student societies, where you can connect with other young people who are there on an exchange.
Facebook groups for international students in Washington DC
Among the groups you will find on this social network are those of the different universities and others that are generally for international students in the city, in which you get to connect with young people who go to other institutions. For example, some of them are “International Students in Washington” and “International Student House, Washington, DC”.
Whatsapp groups for international students in Washington DC
Most commonly, student associations, Facebook groups and young people on their own create Whatsapp groups. We recommend that you join them, as this way you get to find out more simply and quickly about everything being organized especially spontaneous plans.
Tips for sharing a student apartment in Washington DC
We give you some tips to keep in mind when living in shared apartments in this American city:
- Public transportation in the city is not the best, so you should locate well your university when looking for accommodation so that you can have a short trip to it.
- During your stay in Washington DC, you will be able to enjoy many events that take place every year. Some of them are “The National Cherry Blossom Festival”, “Passport DC”, “Smithsonian Folklife Festival”, “Capital Pride”, “Fourth of July” and “National Christmas Tree Lighting”.