Job Discussion Forums

Jetgirly · Joined: 17 Jul 2004 Posts: 741

Once I arrive in Guadalajara, where should I look for apartments? I will need one from Feb 1 - June 30, with two bedrooms and preferably within walking distance of the university I'll be working at. I had a hard time finding a place in Italy (because I moved there with five days' notice) and don't want to go through the same crap again in Mexico. Originally, I was told that accommodation would be provided, but at the last minute I've been told I have to arrange and pay for it myself. The university has offered me their homestay service for $525 US per month, but I suspect that it's a rip off and I'd rather live with my friend who is also doing the same "internship". Suggestions?

Wouter · Joined: 06 Oct 2004 Posts: 128 Location: Tlaquepaque

I dont know that area very well but it is not easy to find furnished apartments. We offer them through our school but these are not in your area. Maybe you can stay for the first week in a hostal and then during this time look around. It is alwasy easier to find something when you are there. Wouldnt surprice me if they have a all kinds of advertisments hanging at the school for housing.

Wouter

dixie · Joined: 23 Apr 2006 Posts: 644 Location: D.F

reddevil79 · Posted: Fri Dec 14, 2007 4:05 pm Post subject:

Having lived in the area, there's no way I would pay that or recommend it to a friend. 5000+ pesos is a lot of money in Mexico, even in the big cities. It seems strange that the institution cancels the accommodation it was going to provide at the last minute, and then suggests an expensive alternative. Shocked

Another thing to consider is the homestay itself. I've known lots people who have had great homestays, but some have had problems, e.g. families placing night time curfues, expecting attendance at family functions, etc.

If you've got money to burn, then go for it. If not, then I'd follow Wouter's advice. University noticeboards are a good place to look too, often ads for flats there...

Jetgirly · Joined: 17 Jul 2004 Posts: 741

I did a homestay during my CELTA and it sucked, so I know I don't want to go down that road again! I'll definitely check out the university bulletin boards; any other ideas anyone? Are there any newspapers with good rental listings?

browniea · Joined: 22 Jun 2006 Posts: 18 Location: Guadalajara, Mexico

Getting a hostel at first may be best. I had the best luck just walking around the neighborhood I wanted to live in, because there are alot of se renta signs, and then I just called the numbers. Thats how I ended up finding my apartment in Zapopan.

El Informador is also a good newspaper with listings, and they have listings online.

Compatodepa.com.mx is also good. Its people looking to rent out rooms, but from what I've seen is usually students/young professionals, not a typical homestay situation.

sarliz · Joined: 22 Feb 2006 Posts: 198 Location: Jalisco

Hey-
My boyfriend is an apartment rental guy here in Guadalajara, and he just told me he has a place a few blocks from UNIVA on Tepeyac with 2 bedrooms that is renting for 2500 pesos/mo. Oh, but it's not furnished. Pm if you're interested, or I can pick hos brain some more about other places he might know of.

Sara