Accomodation

It would be actually good to start looking for a flat still being at home. If you already know, how much money can you spend, it will be automatically easier to decide...

I chose to stay at a Students' Hostel and actually I really enjoy it. It's cheap, not far from the school or the city centre, I've met many people, from different countries... There are also some disadvantages (like living in a basement...), but I will write about them later.

Some of the schools are providing a program of peer-students. Before I came to Cologne, I received an e-mail, in which I was given an e-mail address to my buddy, who I can write to and she will answer all my questions, help to find a flat or register in the city. If you will also have such a peer student, don't hesitate to ask him/her about the best accommodation, location etc.

Students' Hostel - pros:
- always full of people, never feel alone
- usually cheap
- getting to know other cultures and cuisines
- things like washing machine or TV are already there, don't need to buy them or bring them with you
- many parties, especially birthday parties
- great experience, especially when normally you live with your parents.

cons:
- sharing bathroom, which usually is the only one on each floor, or one in the whole Hostel
- sometime need to wait looong hours to use the kitchen
- no privacy

Independent flat - pros:
- good for the individuals, don't have to worry about others, coming back late at night
- fully furnished (usually)
- everything is just for you, don't have to share it
- privacy
- big bed :P
- can live in the city centre, you choose the location

cons:
- no neighbours, or maybe not that many
- have to clean the whole apartment, including bathroom and kitchen
- need to buy all the devises, which usually are not in the flat.