Jan 16 / GEI

Accommodation: What to expect?

Introduction
This post tells you more about the types of accommodations that we typically use on our programs. The specific type depends on the program and destination.

All accommodation suppliers that work with us are required to meet rigorous standards for quality, safety and cleanliness, so you will always stay in safe, clean, and comfortable rooms, wherever you go. 

Hotel & Guest House
You will stay in a 2- to 3-star property, with a relatively central position, close to grocery stores and public transport. It is a simple hotel or guest house where most rooms have a private bathroom. You will be automatically placed in a twin room with another student of the same gender. If you’re traveling with a friend, you can request to stay in the same room. Besides, students may upgrade their room type to Single at an additional cost. 

Amenities & services:
  • Wi-Fi
  • Wardrobe and desk
  • Fan or air conditioning
  • Breakfast
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Laundry services at an additional cost
  • Private fridge or shared in the main kitchen (depending on destination) 


Serviced apartment

Serviced apartments are furnished apartments available for short or long-term rental. From studio apartments located in the heart of the city center to large houses in suburban areas. This type of accommodation is available for students staying for a minimum of 4 weeks at the location. 

Amenities & services:
  • Wi-Fi
  • Fan or air conditioning
  • Weekly housekeeping
  • Laundry services at an additional cost
  • Fully equipped kitchen
  • Fresh towels and bed linen each week 


Homestay
Some programs - especially internship placements in key cities - have the opportunity to stay in a local host family. These host families welcome you as a member of theirs and you are therefore invited to behave as if you were part of the family and not as a tourist or guest. All families are vetted extensively by GEI. The houses are located in safe neighborhoods, with public transport within ten minutes’ walking distance and grocery stores nearby. If you'd like to share a twin room with a friend, that is frequently possible so that the same family might host two or three students at a time.

At least one female member of the family lives in the household permanently and at least one member of the family is fluent in English.

Amenities & services:
  • Wi-Fi (speed and availability might vary depending on destination)
  • Private lockable bedroom equipped with, among others, a bed, a desk and a wardrobe
  • Fresh towels and bed linen each week
  • Access to a bathroom (please note that some households in Africa don't have hot running water, in which case you'll be provided with boiled water in a bucket)
  • Daily local breakfast
  • Family dinner five times a week (depending on destination)