No matter which program you choose to go experience China, you will need to choose which accommodations are best for you. Many people overlook the importance of picking a great living environment. Don’t simply choose the most affordable option, simply because it’s cheapest. Take into account the many factors involved in living abroad, and be prepared for additional external stressors that come along with living in a foreign country.

Your home-away-from-home should give you exactly the space you need to keep yourself going while studying hard and interacting in a new environment. You’re going to want the living arrangement that allows you to not only feel rejuvenated and relaxed, but that also provides the level of social interaction that is best for you.

Are you more introverted and prefer solitude?

Some students or teachers are more introverted than others and need time away to focus on their studies. If you fall into this category, you may want to choose either a Single Dorm or a Single Luxury Apartment.

If you’re on a budget, single dorms are a great option, though these rooms are a bit more compact in China than you may experience in your home country. You will get the solitude you need to regroup before your next class, tutoring session or next shopping trip. It’s better to pay a bit extra for the single dorm than to try the double dorm just because it’s a little cheaper. You’ll be glad you have a little more alone time in this setting.

Single Luxury Apartments can be quite nice in China, though we at Next Step China are a bit choosier than many other language programs. These are ideal if you have the means to spend on a larger space, with room to spread out your study materials, have a new friend over for dinner or even just relax to some of your favorite tunes.

Tip: Both of these accommodations are much smaller in China when compared to other foreign westernized countries. If you are trying to find your own accommodations, be patient with your search. It will be ideal for you to be near to the gym, supermarkets and university where you are studying or teaching.

Are you more extroverted and enjoy sharing your abroad experience?

Other students or teachers are more extroverted and enjoy sharing their experience with other expats or students. If you fall into this category, you may want to choose a Double Dorm, a Homestay or a Shared Luxury Apartment.

Double Dorms are an economical option because you are sharing a small space with another student. These accommodations vary based upon location, but they can allow you to make lasting friendships. There are options for these all over China both on-campus at universities and off-campus. If you’re claustrophobic, you might want to check them out just to be sure you can share such a small space.

Shared Luxury Apartments are ideal if you want a bigger space and can afford the extra cost. Be sure to take your time finding the perfect apartment and roommate, if you’re doing it on your own. At Next Step China, we take care of all this for you and try to match you with an ideal roommate.

Chinese Homestays are probably the best of all the programs if you are eager to fully immerse yourself in the culture. Though each Homestay Program will vary, our program allows you to get a taste of independence while advancing your education or career prospects because you will have security and support while away from your own family.

How Homestays Work: We link our program participants with host families in China, regardless of whether they are studying Mandarin, interning, teaching, or volunteering. By working with the right company and get the planning started early, the process of coming to China and living with a host family can be smooth and a lot of fun.

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After checking out all these options, which type of accommodation sounds ideal to you? Let us know which questions you have about accommodations in China, and we’ll be happy to answer them!