A Simple Guide for Erasmus Students
Welcome to Tarragona! This beautiful city in Spain is a great place for Erasmus students. Finding a home here can be fun but also challenging. This guide will help you find the right place to live and avoid problems.
1. Understanding the Housing Market
Tarragona has many types of places to live. You can find shared apartments (pisos compartidos), student residences (residencias universitarias), and individual rentals. Start looking early because many students look for homes at the same time.
2. Best Websites to Search for Student Housing
Here are some good websites to find a home in Tarragona:
- Idealista: A popular site with many listings. You can find shared apartments and student-friendly options.
- Fotocasa: Another big website with lots of listings. Good for both rentals and shared housing.
- Habitaclia: Focuses on the Catalonia region, including Tarragona. It has detailed listings.
- Badi: Great for finding roommates and shared apartments. Perfect for students.
- Facebook group: Made for Erasmus students.
- Instagram Page: Certified room from Eramsus Tarragona
- Whatsapp group
3. Tips for Avoiding Scams
It’s important to be careful and avoid scams. Here are some tips:
- Check Listings: Look at property listings on more than one website. If something looks too good to be true, it might be a scam.
- Use Trusted Websites: Stick to well-known websites and real estate agencies.
- No Upfront Payments: Never send money before you see the property and sign a contract.
- Visit the Property: If you can, visit the property in person. Photos can be misleading.
- Read the Contract: Make sure you understand the rental contract. Ask your student association or university for help if needed.
- Research the Landlord: Look for reviews or ask for references to make sure they are trustworthy.
4. Best Neighborhoods for Students
Here are some great neighborhoods for students in Tarragona:
- Part Alta (Old Town): Close to the university, full of history, with many cafes and bars.
- Eixample: Modern area with many shops and public transport options.
- Serrallo: A beautiful fishing district with great seafood restaurants.
- Nou Eixample: Newer area with modern apartments and amenities.
5. The Rental Process
Here’s how renting usually works in Tarragona:
- Documents: You’ll need to show proof of being a student, ID, and maybe a guarantor.
- Deposit: Be ready to pay a deposit, usually one to two months’ rent.
- Lease Terms: Understand the lease duration and renewal conditions. Many student rentals are for the academic year.
6. Connect with Other Students
Joining student groups can help you find a home and make friends:
- Social Media Groups: Look for Facebook or other social media groups for students in Tarragona.
- University Resources: Use your university’s accommodation office and student services for help.
- Student Associations: Your Erasmus student association can offer advice and help you find housing.
Conclusion
Finding a home in Tarragona as an Erasmus student can be easy with the right help. Use trusted websites, be careful to avoid scams, and ask for help from your student network. Tarragona is a great place to live and study with its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively student community.
Good luck with your house hunting, and enjoy your Erasmus experience in Tarragona!