March 4, 2022 - In: Rooms,  Porto ,  Code of Conduct ,  Different Cultures, Same Room


Living in a shared flat is the trend these days. Students and young professionals cannot afford to rent a flat on their own, plus they are more migrant, not wanting a long-term lease until they find the job they want to stay on. And students are usually short term, and not all want the dormitory experience, desiring a home that feels like a home sweet home, and not a hospital.


Community living is difficult, even amongst family members. So imagine people from different countries, different languages, different cultures, different ages, different sexes, all coming together under one roof? This is the trend of the 2020s, that is sharing homes with strangers. It gives a unique experience, and from the social-cultural aspect, a big science experiment! Now imagine being in a foreign country, not knowing anyone, the language, the ways of being, and sharing a house with those people, can be stressful and can lead to moments of despair. Especially if it is your first time living on your own!


Not all of us have the same cleanliness, same hygiene, same beliefs, same mindset, and so on. So how do you share the kitchen, the toilet, the shower, the refrigerator with these total strangers? Not everyone is nice and understanding. Sometimes there is mis-communication, because if everyone is speaking English, it is their 2nd language, so words can lead to confusion.


Well, as your landlord, I (Greg), have seen and heard a lot of situations amongst the tenants. How does Greg deal with it? Firstly, his advice is for everyone to try and communicate on their own, to try resolving the problems. Not always this works. Then sometimes, they will ask for my help or intervention. But I avoid intervening as much as possible, because it is my view that you, the tenant, a young adult, has to try on your own to resolve conflicts of interest. That’s how we grow as people and part of the experience of living abroad, is to gain this experience under our belt. Another reason I avoid interfering is because I don’t want to take sides. I have to remain impartial, because you are all my tenants and clients. So I also have to do a juggling act which is not always easy.


There have been households where everyone really got along, even them all going away for a weekend, or hanging out together at dinners, going out with friends, just getting along amusingly and friendly. These are the best situations as a landlord we could have, seeing everyone happy and getting along.


Therefore, the House Rules, Information and Code of Conduct are so important. They exist for a reason. It is given to all tenants at the beginning of their stay. Each tenant is asked to completely read the document and agree, just like when signing something from Google, you have to accept the terms. Knowing these rules will avoid conflicts. Avoiding discord will make your experience more enjoyable and memorable. And that is what we all want :)



Porto, Portugal's second-largest city, is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations for exchange students. With its charming blend of rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere, Porto offers a unique and fulfilling experience for students. Here are just a few reasons why Porto is a great location for exchange students.


1. Rich History and Culture

Porto is a city steeped in history, from its cobbled streets and centuries-old buildings to its museums and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Students can immerse themselves in the city’s culture while exploring its historic landmarks, such as the iconic Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, and the Ribeira district, with its colorful buildings and picturesque views of the Douro River.


For exchange students interested in art and architecture, Porto is home to many galleries and museums, such as the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art. There’s always something to explore and learn in this fascinating city.


2. Affordable Living

Compared to other European cities, Porto is relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for exchange students on a budget. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all reasonably priced, allowing students to stretch their budgets further while still enjoying everything the city has to offer. Students can also find plenty of local cafes and restaurants that offer delicious, authentic Portuguese cuisine at affordable prices.


3. Vibrant Student Life

Porto has a thriving student population, and it's easy to meet people and get involved in social and extracurricular activities. The University of Porto, one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the country, attracts students from all over the world, creating a lively and diverse atmosphere. Whether you’re into sports, music, or theater, there are numerous clubs and organizations to join, making it easy to build friendships and connections.


The city also boasts a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and events catered to students. From traditional Fado music to contemporary DJ sets, Porto has something for everyone.


4. Stunning Scenery and Outdoor Activities

Porto is blessed with incredible natural beauty, from its beaches along the Atlantic Ocean to the rolling hills of the Douro Valley. Whether you want to relax by the beach, hike through the nearby hills, or take a boat ride along the Douro River, the options for outdoor activities are endless. The mild climate also makes Porto a great place to explore year-round, with pleasant temperatures that encourage an active lifestyle.


5. Accessible Travel Opportunities

Porto is an ideal base for exploring both Portugal and beyond. The city is well-connected with an international airport that offers flights to destinations across Europe and beyond. It’s also a great starting point for traveling to nearby cities like Lisbon, Braga, and Coimbra. For students interested in exploring Portuguese culture, the city is the gateway to the Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and port wine production.


6. Language and Integration

While Portuguese is the official language, Porto is known for its open-minded locals and high level of English proficiency, making it easier for exchange students to settle in. The opportunity to learn and practice Portuguese, however, is an added bonus that can enhance the experience and help students integrate into the local culture. Many universities in Porto also offer language courses for international students, making it easy to pick up the basics or improve existing language skills.


7. Welcoming Community

The people of Porto are known for their warmth and friendliness, and exchange students often remark on how easy it is to feel at home in the city. Whether it’s a local inviting you into their café or fellow students making you feel welcome at events, Porto offers a strong sense of community that makes it easy to adjust and form meaningful connections during your exchange experience.


Conclusion

Porto is a hidden gem for exchange students, offering a combination of affordability, cultural richness, stunning landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to dive into history, improve your language skills, explore the outdoors, or simply enjoy the vibrant student life, Porto has something to offer. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a truly memorable and enriching exchange experience.

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